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
Outside in.
From modern classsic conservatories, impressive domes and garden rooms to the most contemporary, unique winter gardens, we are driven to create a perfect synergy between the outside world and your living space. As a preferred partner of Solarlux, we are able to incorporate pioneering design elements into our structures to create conservatories that are not only stunningly beautiful and architecturally innovative, but a valuable investment too.
AK TI V PARTNER OF
Fo r m o re info r m a t io n o n b rin gin g t h e o u t sid ewo r l d int o yo u r h o m e, c all 01423 561156 o r v isit u s a t; c a u l f i e l d c o ns e r va t o r i e s.c o.u k
Main Main image image shows shows AC AC Schnitzer Schnitzer ACS6 ACS6 Sport, Sport, based based onon BMW BMW M6 M6 (F12). (F12). Includes Includes performance performance upgrade upgrade to to 620hp 620hp with with 3 year 3 year warranty, warranty, carbon carbon fibre fibre front front spoiler, spoiler, polished polished stainless stainless steel steel front front grille, grille, carbon carbon fibre fibre rear rear diffuser, diffuser, quad quad pipe pipe sports sports exhaust exhaust system, system, suspension suspension upgrade upgrade and and 21� 21� Type Type VIII VIII Racing Racing wheels wheels with with Michelin Michelin Supersport Supersport tyres. tyres. Available Available from from selected selected dealers dealers around around the the UK. UK. Please Please call call forfor a brochure a brochure and and details details of of AC AC Schnitzer Schnitzer dealers dealers in in Cheshire. Cheshire. Tel: Tel: 01485 01485 542000 542000 email email info@ac-schnitzer.co.uk info@ac-schnitzer.co.uk Subject Subject to to availability. availability. Finance Finance available available subject subject to to status. status. E&OE. E&OE.
U:\Ads\Source U:\Ads\Source files\TheCheshire2.cdr files\TheCheshire2.cdr
Beyond Beyondthe thestandard. standard.
AC ACSchnitzer Schnitzeroffer offerbespoke bespokeBMWs BMWstotothe themotoring motoringenthusiast. enthusiast.Built-to-order Built-to-ordercars carswith withenhanced enhancedperformance, performance, superior superiorride ridecomfort, comfort,and anda asound soundtototake takeyou youtotothe themoon. moon. Take Takeyour yourBMW BMWbeyond beyondthe thestandard. standard.
www.ac-schnitzer.co.uk www.ac-schnitzer.co.uk 01485 01485542000 542000
Regulars | The cheshire Magazine
From the
Editor
EDITOR’S PICKs #1 Gold pheasant brooch, £POA (harveyandgore.co.uk)
2
1
#2 Range Rover SVR, £93,450 (landrover.co.uk)
3 #3 Travelling To Work: Diaries 1988-1998 by Michael Palin, £25 (amazon.co.uk)
C
heshire is a county surrounded by countryside, long walks, great pubs and beautiful scenery so, as the leaves turn to gold, we felt it only appropriate to celebrate country living. Sarah Callander Beckett of Combermere Abbey shares her journey of restoration with us, making her country home and estate a very people driven business (p.28) – a far cry from her previous PR role in New York. Images of mist covered Highlands abound as Lord James Percy writes of his sporting year (p.24) and Kate Racovolis speaks with Richard Purdey, of the beautiful British gunsmiths, on heritage, society and celebrating 200 years of style (p.33). As Michael Palin steps off stage from the Monty Python Tour, Natalie Anglesey reflects on her meetings with the Around the World in 80 Days presenter with fondness (p.42). In our travel pages, I try not to get too carried away being Lady of the Manor for a weekend at Weston Park (p.106) and we gain some inspiration from some of the country’s best homes and gardens in our bumper Homes & Interiors pages (p.158). Finally, we take an exclusive look behind the scenes at the breakthroughs in breast cancer research being made by Dr Paul Shore and his team at Manchester University and local lady, Claire Dickens, shares her breast cancer story with us, ‘laughing through the tears’ with her family (p82). With all our usual features too, we wish you enjoyable moments in front of the fire as we embrace the autumn months.
Louisa
Louisa Castle Editor Follow us on Twitter @TheCheshireMag
Proud to support: Variety – The Children’s Charity The Pink Ribbon Ball, Manchester & Breast Cancer Campaign 8
PHYTO-TEINT EXPERT
Your skin has never looked so beautiful
• A flawless and even complexion: no need for touch ups from morning to evening. • A perfectly radiant and natural finish: a ‘second skin’ effect. • A perfectly hydrated, smoothed and comfortable skin: Sisley’s skincare expertise as well as make-up. 8 shades to unify the skin without masking it Suitable for all skin types, including the most sensitive. Oil-free, non comedogenic. Please visit the Sisley counters in Hoopers Wilmslow, John Lewis Cheadle or Browns Chester for your complimentary colour matching appointment and to receive a sample of your ideal shade.
www.sisley-paris.co.uk
The mayfair Magazine | Regulars
028
042
123
Contents
October 2014
038 124
157
Features
art
travel
024 | A sporting year This excerpt from Lord Percy’s book Fields of Dreams is a love letter to rural bliss 028 | Style & substance Combermere Abbey’s Sarah Callander Beckett talks life challenges and legacies 033 | A tale of two centuries Richard Purdey on the 200 year heritage of the stalwart British gun and rifle brand 036 | Autumn flavours Chef Justin Woods on this season’s tempting trends 038 | Chantelle Heskey We talk charity, children and Louboutins with this down to earth WAG at her Hale home 042 | Michael Palin A true national treasure opens up about the Pythons, seeing the world and his new book 082 | Pink science The research and the stories behind the Pink Ribbon Ball 114 | The big hitter We sit down with Ryder Cup captain Paul McGinley
048 | Art news 050 | Life on the edge We discover the remote fishing village transformed by cutting-edge art 054 | The sculptor Matthew Shaw introduces us to the beauty of stone 057 | Prize lots
104 | Travel news 106 | To the manor born We investigate the after-hours charm of Shropshire’s beautiful Weston Park 110 | Explore...the Greek islands All the information you’ll need to choose the right one 112 | Weekend away Discover true Italian decadence at the Baglioni
collection 058 | Watch news 062 | Jewellery news Our usual beautiful array of the very latest jewels 065 | Jewellery trend
fashion & beauty 066 | Fashion news From essential accessories to new trends, it’s all here 068 | Drama queens Add dramatic, decadent ruffles to give your autumn look a powerful edge 079 | Rural chic Find your inner country gent or Lady of the Manor 080 | Beauty news
regulars
motoring
008 | Editor’s letter 012 | Contributors 015 | My life in Cheshire Why perfume icon Victoria Christian loves Nantwich 016 | Couture culture Our favourite things to buy, see, eat or explore this month 020 | Local scene Who attended what, all the glamour and the gossip
090 | Motoring news All the latest developments 092 | The numbers game We get confused by BMW’s new 4-series Gran Coupé 098 | Thunder road We test the most powerful production Seven ever built 102 | Technology central Love the latest gadgets? We bring you our top picks
FAMILY 114 | Kids’ news The very latest for little ones 117 | The classroom What have our local schools been up to this month? 121 | In your dreams These fantasy beds make bedtime oh-so appealing
homes & interiors 124 | Interiors news 127 | Plain talking Katie Fontana’s incredible Georgian Quaker kitchens 140 | Rolling in the deep Meet the amazing man at the helm of luxury yacht design 146 | Recreate the look Keeping the cabins of your yacht bright and beautiful 157 | Finishing touches Creating an eclectic haven 158 | The country house garden The literary credentials of beautiful Broughton Castle 166 | Local property 172 | Overseas property These stunning properties will have you yearning to emigrate
11
Regulars | The CHESHIRE Magazine
OCTOBER 2014 s issue 010 s
Editor Louisa Castle
The
contributors
Editorial Director Kate Harrison Art Editor Carol Cordrey Collection Editor Annabel Harrison Assistant Editor Gemma Knight Senior Designer Grace Linn Brand Consistency Laddawan Juhong Production Hugo Wheatley Alex Powell Oscar Viney Amy Roberts Advertising Manager Kayleigh Penswick General Manager Fiona Fenwick Head of Finance Elton Hopkins Publisher Giles Ellwood
Tim bradley Tim is an award-winning photographer based in the North West. Discovering a passion for photography from his grandfather he is a regular on the media scene and often works with TV chef Andrew Nutter.
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.
matthew carter Matthew Carter is a noted freelance journalist who’s been writing about cars for most of his working life. A former editor of Autocar magazine, he is a serial car owner and, this month, investigates BMW’s 4-Series Gran Coupé.
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.
Executive Director Sophie Roberts
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
Bowden Jacket, £159, Traditional Fit Moleskins, £74.95, Sporting Tattersall Shirt, £59.95 & Ilkley Shoe, £159. Barbour.com / 0800 00 99 88 Photographer: David Goldman Stylist: David Lamb Land Rover & Barbour: see page 87
inside the chanGinG rooms of the leGendary all Blacks
closed doors
Gentlemanly GaminG in london’s most exclusive niGht-spots
t h e
RUNWILD MEDIA GROUP
leaderShip
Proudly published by
Dear Resident
,
The first whispers of autumn linger in the air this month and our social calendars are shifting accordingly; summer’s sun-kissed days are soon to be replaced with evenings spent by the fireside. As our collective attention turns indoors, the Journal considers the curators, interior designers and furniture makers instilling impeccable taste throughout the neighbourhood. We talk to everyone from Vanessa Brady to LINLEY, as well as other brands that give Belgravia a nudge in the right direction style-wise. Be inspired from page eight.
BELGRAVIA
This month marks the start of a new season at several local galleries, including an exhibition of Jonathan Wylder’s latest work. You might be familiar with the renowned sculptor – his bust of architect George Basevi sits in Belgrave Square – but either way, don’t miss the chance to view his collection of bronze and steel creations. Read our round-up from page 15. And finally, connoisseur of the finer things in life, Henry Hopwood-Phillips talks to cigar expert Edward Sahakian. Read about his tale of tobacco and political upheaval on page 20.
Resident’s Journal
Please do not hesitate to get in contact with all your news and updates, email belgravia@residentsjournal.co.uk We hope you enjoy the issue.
Also published by Members of the Professional Publishers Association
Managing Editor Francesca Lee
Editor-in-Chief Lesley Ellwood
Assistant Editor Lauren Romano
Managing Director Eren Ellwood
Main Editorial Contributor Henry Hopwood-Phillips
Senior Designer Sophie Blain
Executive Director Sophie Roberts
Production Hugo Wheatley Alex Powell Oscar Viney Amy Roberts
Client Relationship Director Felicity Morgan-Harvey
Editorial Assistant Jennifer Mason Editorial Intern Tom Hagues
12
i S S u e
Managing Director Eren Ellwood
Publishing Director Giles Ellwood General Manager Fiona Fenwick
Above / Tranquillity by Jonathan Wylder. Read about the sculptor's forthcoming exhibition on page 16.
Proudly published & printed in the UK by
SEPTEMBER 2014 • ISSuE 28
Head of Finance Elton Hopkins
RUNWILD MEDIA GROUP
Member of the Professional Publishers Association / ppa.co.uk
Safeguarding SuCCeSS optimiSing talent how To creATe hunger in pArAdise
LeAdership Lessons from TeAm sky’s sir dAve brAiLsford
Book CluB
The besT-kepT secreT of AmAzon founder Jeff bezos
CELEBRATING
25 YEARS WITH
25% OFF* *A different stone every month until 31st January 2015.
CELEBRATING 25 YEARS Local showroom, Wilmslow 67-69 Water Lane, Wilmslow, Cheshire SK9 5BQ 01625 531 343 Order online at mandarinstone.com
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars
My life in CHESHIRE VICTORIA CHRISTIAN Brand Ambassador for Clive Christian
B ‘You go to Nantwich, and it’s like a little window into the past.’ – Victoria Christian
FROM TOP: no.1 by clive christian, the chandelier kitchen, no.1 15th anniversary edition.
orn and raised in Nantwich, Victoria Christian – daughter of the eponymous Clive, creator of the world’s most expensive perfume – might now be a glamorous globetrotting businesswoman, but it’s her fairytale childhood and creative parents she credits with her success. Dundee-born Clive Christian came to Cheshire when his parents relocated for work, and as the oldest of Clive’s three daughters (and the only one of his children now involved in the family business), Victoria grew up in the 19th century manor house where her father began his interiors company, revolutionising the 70s idea of a domestic décor with his now-legendary chandelier kitchen. ‘I had the good fortune to be born into a world where your father is the sort of man who strives for the best in everything, and always having lovely things as much as you can tailor your wallet to do,’ she explains. ‘My mother grew up as the only daughter of a family of four boys and an army background, so she had three girls and we all had ballet lessons and dolls, and she was very creative so she’d make beautiful dresses for us and then matching ones for our dolls – we were all very girlified. It’s been quite a fairytale existence really; I’ve got quite a vivid imagination that was cultivated by growing up in these surroundings.’ Having attended primary and junior school in nearby Wistason (where she remembers being ‘very focused on winning all of the sports day races, and having the main part in all the school plays’), Victoria then went on to study at The Grange School in Hartford where she was ‘mostly – honestly? – enamoured with the fact that all of the teachers wore their billowing, Harry-Potter-style gowns all of the time.’ Though Victoria no longer lives in Nantwich, her grandparents do, while her father owns a 300-year-old Queen Anne property nearby which he has lovingly restored. She still visits often and, despite being a self-confessed urbanite, can never quite get over the effect that rural Cheshire still has after the ‘bright lights of Piccadilly Circus’. ‘You go to Nantwich, and it’s like this little window into the past with all the little old houses bulging over and the ladies’ long Victorian dresses trailing on the streets in your imagination,’ she says fondly. ‘And you’ve got this huge expanse of sky in Cheshire – you get to be in the middle of this green expanse and these huge great, lovely Cheshire plains. I think my favourite thing about Cheshire is the sense of community. Still now when I go back, I walk around the streets with my father and people come up and say hello, and they know him and he knows them. It’s wonderful.’ (clive.com) 15
Victoria Cross As part of the commemoration of the First World War Centenary, the government is honouring every Victoria Cross recipient by laying an official paving stone in their memory. This includes Altrincham’s Captain Edward Kinder Bradbury, VC. Born and raised in Bowdon, Bradbury attended the Royal Military Academy in Woolwich, receiving his captaincy in 1910 and was second-in-command of ‘L’ Battery, Royal Horse Artillery. He led the Battery during the engagement at Néry, France during the Retreat from Mons on 1 September, 1914. All his officers were either killed or wounded in the attack but Captain Bradbury along with Sergeant Major Dorrell and Sergeant Nelson continued the lone resistance against the German attack. He was killed in action and he and all three soldiers were awarded the Victoria Cross for gallantry. A commemorative stamp cover has also been released featuring the Centenary stamp and postmarked Altrincham – 1 September, 2014 – the exact anniversary of his heroic act. The cover is free, just postage and packaging to pay. (westminstercollection.com)
Couture culture
books
The Scandalous read The Mad Boy, Lord Berners, My Grandmother and Me by Sofka Zinovieff, £25, Jonathan Cape A look into the house of Lord Berners and family, and their eccentric, scandal-filled lives. THE THRILLING READ The Bone Clocks by David Mitchell, £20, Sceptre This novel follows the twists and turns of a teenage runaway in a gripping, metaphysical thriller. THE food read Meat by Pat LaFrieda, £25, Simon & Schuster The fourth-generation butcher guides us through the world of meat, with personal memoirs and delicious recipes.
eventS
Ramsbottom Festival, 19-21 September, 2014
L
ancashire’s Ramsbottom Festival has revealed a stellar line-up of both established and emerging performers for 2014, with headliners British Sea Power topping the bill. Other acts include Brighton folk-rockers Levellers and Irish folk songstress Cara Dillon. Acoustic folk four-piece Bridie Jackson and The Arbour, who last year won the Glastonbury Emerging Talent Competition, are certain to be another highlight. Now in its fourth year, and affectionately known as ‘Rammy’ the laid-back event has become just as famous for its real ales and 16
family entertainment as it has for its eclectic mix of indie, rock and folk music. Stalls from local restaurants and street food vendors will be offering a variety of Great British grub and international cuisine, plus a special edition Ramsbottom Festival Ale. The quality of the festival’s beer is a definite point of pride and those who have a love for craft beer and real ale may find it difficult to tear themselves away from the beer tents. There will be plenty to entertain the family too from Shadowplay to circus performers, puppets, dancers, music and magic. (ramsbottomfestival.com / @rammyfestival)
the FASHION READ Hollywood and The Ivy Look by Graham Marsh and Tony Nourmand, £24.95, Reel Art Press A pictorial celebration of the style that dominated America’s male dress codes from 1955-1965. THE PHOTOGRAPHY READ Woodstock by Baron Wolman, £29.95, Reel Art Press Baron Wolman leads us through one of the world’s most iconic festivals in the 1960s, through his lens.
The cheshire Magazine | Regulars
5 top picks
Image courtesy StudioCanal
Spooky Style Celebrate Hallowe’en in style this month
#1 Skull Desk Tidy, £39.95 (red5.co.uk)
film Before I Go To Sleep
R
owan Joffé asks,‘What are we, if not an accumulation of our memories?’ in his big-screen adaptation of the emotional thriller and bestselling debut novel by SJ Watson. Christine Lucas, played by Nicole Kidman, wakes up every morning wondering who the hand resting on her side of the quilt belongs to. Tiptoeing into the bathroom, assuming she is still twenty-something, she is confronted by a collage of photographs showing a life that a brutal attack has caused her to forget each time she goes to sleep, and a middle-aged face staring back from the mirror. However, a daily phone call reminds her to look for a camera hidden inside her closet, which helps her piece together fragments of her past that her
husband Ben (Colin Firth) appears to be keeping from her. The atmosphere switches from panicked to poignant in a matter of minutes, so don’t be surprised if you end up simultaneously wiping your eyes and watching through your fingers. Influences from the masters of suspense are present throughout, from Hitchcock’s stairs to Stephen King’s corridors, but the clever twist sets it apart from comparable psychological dramas such as Memento or Inception. A chilling, nightmarish situation portrayed with a heart-breaking intensity by an unconventional yet brilliantly chosen cast – just make sure you take someone to hide behind. Before I Go To Sleep was released on 5 September
#2 Bellatrix Lestrange Wanted Poster, £49 (theprintorium.com)
#3 Trug Rug, £124.42 (rugcouture.com)
WORDS: MARIANNE DICK
#4 Spooky Biscuit Tin, £34.99 (biscuitvillage.co.uk)
‘I’m so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers.’ – LM Montgomery, Anne of Green Gables Cashmere throws, £155 each (johnstonscashmere.com)
#5 Frankenstein Literary Tote, £13.10 (nevermorestore.com)
17
FOOD FESTIVALS October is a great month for celebrating local produce, we’ve found three of the best for variety, quality and added spice
HIDDEN GEM… HOT YOGA at THE YARD
F
ollowing success around the country Hotpod Yoga is now opening in Cheshire at The Yard and Festival Hall in Alderley Edge as well as at the Coach & Four in Wilmslow. To begin with boutique classes for up to eight people will run at The Yard every Sunday with a full launch in September with 12 classes a week. Hotpod Yoga classes are based on classic Vinyasa-flow yoga – a balanced sequence of active
and passive postures, synchronised with the breath – great for physical and mental health. Under the guidance of Caroline Wardle each class will be suitable for beginners yet challenging enough for the experienced, building strength, toning muscles and re-energising the body, while also relaxing the mind. We can’t wait to try it out. (hotpodyoga.com)
PURCHASE OF THE MONTH Kopi Luwak Ruby and Diamond Coffee
The makers of the world’s most expensive coffee make a valid point; why would you serve your dinner guests a bottle of expensive wine, but follow it with a cup of cheap shop-bought coffee? Indeed, they suggest that their product bears a far greater resemblance to a fine burgundy or an expensive brandy than a coffee, and having tasted it, we can’t help but agree. The Kopi Luwak Ruby and Diamond varieties, £6,200 per kilo and £31,000 per kilo respectively, are a far cry from any other coffee we’ve tried, with intense notes of fruit and caramel which have permanently ruined us for high street coffee houses. Beans are sourced from the Gayo region of Indonesia, digested by the Asian palm civet cat, then – unlike any other bean in the world – hand collected and triple sorted, with only hundreds of kilos produced each year and hand delivered worldwide in bespoke boxes designed by Elie Bleu. Coffee lovers, things just got serious. (bespokebeverages.com) 18
FALMOUTH OYSTER FESTIVAL, 9-12 OCTOBER Celebrating the start of the traditional oyster season and all things sea-faring this is a must for all oyster, seafood and maritime enthusiasts, young and old. (falmouthoysterfestival.co.uk)
CHOCOLATE WEEK, 17-19 OCTOBER The world’s largest chocolate show returns to London this year with tastings galore as well as stunning couture outfits made and inspired by chocolate! (chocolateweek.co.uk) FOOD LOVERS FESTIVAL, TATTON 24-26 October With demonstrations from Simon Rimmer and Andrew Nutter there’s plenty to get your tastebuds tingling at this indoor foodie festival. (nwfoodloversfestival.com)
The cheshire Magazine | Regulars
The queen of tea
Words: Stephen Wundke
I
t’s not often you meet royalty and it’s even rarer that you meet one so committed to the enjoyment of a humble cuppa but that is what I have just done – taken tea with the Queen of Tea right here in Cheshire. Bernadine doesn’t just love tea – she lives tea. ‘Tea is my life. From an early age I realised this special beverage held a wonderful secret. It had the power to make you happy. Tea, always brings people together.’ ‘We need to start treating this special leaf with the reverence it deserves and then we will start to unleash the most amazing benefits. We need to take our time, buy a good leaf product, infuse properly and then drink for flavour. Then, and only then, will we start to understand the great power of tea.’ From the White Elixirs to the Green Teas, the herbal teas, the teas that aren’t teas and the more traditional, I just couldn’t get enough tastes and flavours. During our tasting I was transported to another time and place. A place I want to go back to again, where everyone is equal and if you let the tea work for you, you get to enjoy a marvellous sense of calm and wellbeing. All that in just one session! I am a tea convert and I am a loyal servant of the new Tay, Tea, Dynasty. (quniteasessentially.co.uk)
‘I think your whole life shows in your face and you should be proud of that.’ – Lauren Bacall, 1924-2014
SPOTLIGHT ON… The fine dining co
I
f you are having a dinner party and don’t fancy the actual cooking part, we’ve found a great company who can handle it all for you without costing the earth. I’m afraid you’ll still be left with the washing up though. For a price of £65 a head we dined on divine canapés of miniature crab cakes, mini lobster tortellini and ham hock ballotine. They were perfect mouthfuls with minimal mess. As we sat down to dinner our starters were ready; trio of smoked fish – potted mackerel, hot smoked salmon, smoked halibut, toast, capers and pickled cucumber. To follow we dined on rack of heather-reared lamb, glazed baby vegetables, crushed Jersey Royal potatoes, with a niçoise jus. And to finish we filled ourselves with melt in the middle chocolate pudding, and chocolate tiffin with chocolate coated strawberries. All we had to do was decorate the table, match the wine and hide the washing up for later, leaving time to enjoy with guests and not worrying if the vegetables would be ready in time with the meat as is often my downfall. If you want a completely hassle-free evening though, The Fine Dining Company can put you in touch with waiters or crockery hire so you do as little or as much as you wish. (rupertfrazerworden.com)
19
Local scene Whilst many have been enjoying the summer holidays in faraway places, the rest of us have been indulging in mouth-watering nibbles, iconic fashion collections and high-octane charity events 180 Degrees Pinewood on Wilmslow, Handforth Following a multi-million pound refurbishment, Restaurant One Eighty opened to the public last month, much to the acclaim of local foodies. Taste buds were tantalised with mini-versions from the à la carte menu offering, created by head chef Colin Starkey, and served from the state-ofthe-art kitchens (his pride and joy!). (Pinewood-hotel.co.uk)
Managing director Tim Rumney, head chef Colin Starkey & general manager, John Scott
steven & jennifer ward
General manager John Scott & Danielle Maslan
Heather Bebbington & Andrew Bebbington
Lynn Green & Julie Freeman
The Luxury Lifestyle Awards The Langham Hotel, Mayfair, London On 29 August the prestigious Langham Hotel welcomed a glittering array of guests from all over Europe to hear the winners of the much-coveted European Luxury Lifestyle Awards announced. With a lavish casino theme, the event treated guests to a gala dinner and concert entertainment then a decadent after party. Amongst the winners were Continental leaders in the boutique hotel, interior design, fashion, real estate, jewellery, spa and banking sectors, making for a truly memorable night and many brands achieving well earned recognition. (luxurylifestyleawards.com) 20
Elçin Sonakın and Imam Altinbas
Bora Özerman, Gonen Fusun, Serdar Ozyurt of Gülnar Evleri Natalia Mikitas
Dhwani Bansal of Gemco Jewels
India Chitnis and Grace Kennedy
Christian Kurtzke and Philip Rogers of Meissen Couture
Richard Crawford, Mary Marlowe Shaffer of Eat Love Savor
The cheshire Magazine | Regulars
Vivienne Westood 47 Spring Gardens, Manchester The stylistas of Manchester and Cheshire turned out for the AW14/15 showcase of Vivienne Westwood’s Red Label and MAN. The latest Red Label collection takes inspiration from the original, iconic Vivienne Westwood AW 1987/88 collection, Harris Tweed, an affectionate parody of the English aristocrat. The MAN collection takes inspiration from looking at the Earth from space, studying different times and civilisations through anthropological eyes. (viviennewestwood.com)
21
(l-r) Charlotte Solomon, Gusto’s Brand Development Manager, Chris Moorhouse , Matt Doughty, Steph Meachin and David Evans of Bentley, Rolls-ROYCE and Maclaren
(l-r) Cerys Owen with David Bell Assistant General Manager Gusto
Girls on the door (l-r) Cerys Owen and Bethan Williams
22
Kieron Mellor and Mark Forster of Comms – Care
(l-r) Matt Doughty and Chris Moorhouse of Bentley, Rolls-royce and Maclaren with Sharon Bradley of Ultimate Santorini
The cheshire Magazine | Regulars
(l-r) of UK TOGETHER Lifestyle & Event Management Olayinka Seriki and Sue Weighell
Just for Men
Wet shave team (l-r) Dave Looms, Jordan Colbert, Chris Mullen and Matthew Sherriff
Band on the evening Afrika Fuentes featuring Miguel Campello Raindow
Wet shave demo by Matthew Sherriff (l-r) Roberta Bradley and Heidi Clayton of Roberta Beauty Redifined
Gusto Restaurant & Bar, Knutsford Bentley Manchester and Gusto Restaurant & Bar Knutsford joined forces on Tuesday 2 September to help raise the profile of Orchid, a charity which focuses on male specific cancers. The VIP evening Just For Men attracted the very stylish, affluent and discerning gentlemen from the area, who were greeted outside the restaurant by an array of luxury cars supplied by Bentley Manchester, including the latest models from Rolls-Royce and Bentley. Inside was a plethora of activities including wet shaving by Flanagan’s, specialist whisky and gourmet food tasting from Gusto, as well as displays by exclusive and bespoke holiday rentals company Ultimate Santorini, the latest specialist cycles from bikes’n’gear, personal training company Nxtep and Roberta Skin Defined. Fabulous musician and vocalist Miss Afrikas Duo, kept the chaps entertained and enthralled with a couple of stunning sets. Amazing auction prizes included VIP tickets to see John Bishop. The successful bidder and guest will be whisked away in a chauffer-driven Bentley to Manchester to see the comedian and then driven home in style. Pulse of Perfumery Knutsford donated a men’s fragrance hamper worth £150 and one of Peter’s famous perfume parties for up to ten guests. The next lot saw a lunch for two at Living Ventures’ famous Manchester House restaurant, with top chef Aiden Byrne. The evening host and auction master was Damian Jones from DS Laboratories, specialists in a range of men’s hair and skin products, who did a fantastic job in helping to raise £2,000 for Orchid. Stefanie Meachin, Business Development Manager, and Mirek Bulka, General Manager told The Cheshire Magazine that ‘as a result of the incredible success of the evening we will be planning similar events in the future’, so watch this space! (orchid-cancer.org.uk)
Auctioneers (l-r) Damian Fredrick, Zane Lewis and Bethan Williams
23
A sporting year Lord James Percy’s book Fields of Dreams: A Journey of Sporting Passion reads like a love letter to Britain’s beautiful countryside. He shares his year in sport with The Cheshire Magazine
N above: much of scotland was covered in caledonian forest (page 38); right: a patchwork of heather burning encourages the growth of new young heather on this estate in banffshire. photo: Chris Knights (page 42-43)
24
owhere on earth is there a country blessed with such a wide spectrum of sport as Great Britain. Through every season of the year there is something for the keen fisherman or shooting man to attend to, given time. And his harvest is as varied as it is bountiful. There is pigeon shooting, wildfowling, ferreting for bunnies, driven game shooting and rough shooting; dry fly fishing, still water fishing, coarse fishing; stalking for red, sika, roe, muntjac, fallow and Chinese water deer, and many other specialist activities like ratting or squirrelling. A true countryman’s sporting calendar has neither beginning nor end, but early summer is as good a time to start as any. In May and June, the River Tyne, many
Scottish rivers and the famous sewin waters of Wales offer the prospect of a few long nights fishing for sea trout. It’s a sport that may leave one incapable of functioning by day, but the anticipation of that brutal, electric take and explosive tail-walking run is like a drug to devotees of this shy silver fish. Whether you call them peel, finnock, sewin or sea trout, the drill is the same: it is waiting for dusk or dark (depending on your river) when the bats appear and the bow waves of moving fish start, or when you hear the noisy splash of a double-digitpound fish, jumping in the darkness, that sets your spine tingling. High summer is a time of green in the countryside, of occasional hot sun or – more likely – of weeks of wet weather. Our
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature
‘A true countryman’s sporting calendar has neither beginning nor end’ sportsman’s gun is firmly in the cupboard – bar a bit of vermin control. The moors are green, the fields of wheat are green and the leaves are green. Down in the chalk streams of southern England, brown and rainbow trout cruise or hold on station sipping at Sherry Spinners, Pheasant Tails, Nymphs and Olive Dunns. You can enjoy long, hot days slowly walking up the river banks, searching for fish high in the water or sporadically rising, and wondering why that Red Wulff in your box seems more the thing than a tiny Black Gnat. Then there is the evening rise with its mixed charms – ‘rise fever’. It can consume the most experienced dry fly fisherman, as each time you prepare to cast a gossamer-light fly on the last rise, the fish has moved on and another one rises 50 yards below, and another 100 yards above. Darkness can come all too quickly, and if the fishing basket is still empty, a little desperation can creep in. At last you find a fish; up he comes and your strike is well timed; he gives a little run, and then you slip the net under his burnished flank – it’s old rubber lips! A grayling: a fine fish but not quite the same as a fat brownie.
Virtually all clean, fast flowing rivers in this country hold wild brown trout, from famous salmon rivers to tiny burns, and the fun of catching a creel of little brownies on a fourweight fly rod is hard to beat – as is the smell of fresh trout cooked in porridge oats and butter. Grilse will start running the Highland rivers in the first weeks of July. The annual pilgrimage north for thousands of salmon fishermen is preceded by constant scanning of the weather forecast in the hope of the magic spate, perfectly timed to fine down the river to a weak whisky colour for Monday morning, and a subsequent wave of free-taking silver bars. The pitter-patter of rain on the fishing hut roof at the end of a week of topaz skies might seem an injustice to the outgoing tenants, but is full of eastern promise for those due to arrive. Memories of indescribable beauty come to every fisherman wherever he may cast a fly (or hurl a spinner). Scenes linger in the mind, such as the setting sun flooding light, like glowing lava, on to the red cliffs of the River Spey. And over on the Lochy, wading through the Falls pool with Ben Nevis looming in the near
25
distance over the treacly glide; sometimes dark and cloaked in mist; sometimes benign and sparkling. I have seen flashes of blue as a kingfisher strips past on the River Till, or an osprey hunting the tails of pools for trout and small grilse on the Oykel. Otters playing in a pool, scattering fish and munching on eels, or a pod of grilse scooting through the shallows as they run upstream. By the third week in July the grouse moor keepers will have conducted their counts and will have a reasonable idea of the season to come. Meanwhile, the low-ground keepers will put their pheasants ‘to wood’ and their partridges out, and be forever checking that the birds are happily taking to their ground. It really is shoulder to the wheel now on the grouse moors with final preparations – butts to repair, flags to be made, confirmations from shoot staff to receive and a million other things. All the work, the preparations, the skill and the organising of everyone involved is so vital. By the first moon in August, there is a subtle change in light, in colour, in smell. The wheat starts to ripen. Swathes of rape have been cut and cleared. Second silage cuts are alive with rooks and seagulls hoovering up a feast of diced snails and slugs. And barley heads begin to droop. Roads jammed with combine harvesters and tractor-trailers full of the finest golden pearls, maybe bound for Speyside distilleries. Steadily the days pass by, high summer is away and the countdown has begun to that fulcrum of the sporting year – 12 August and the start of the grouse shooting. The air is clear of mist, showers and humidity. The smells are different and the birdsong has a new ensemble. All perspective across the countryside comes into focus as hedge-lines stand out between stubble fields, woodland edges are clear-cut and the hills loom high and in sharp focus. You can taste the heather dust; smell the sweet pollen. As you run your hand over your excited dog’s head, her nose stills for a moment to meet your palm before returning to sniff out all the new scents. It is all too much for Gun and dog to bear. You
26
jingle the comforting weight of shells in your pocket; lay out a pattern of twos and ones for the quick reload. And deep down in your gut, a knot is forming: a tingle of excitement in your throat, the moment is nigh. It is the evening of the 11 August. Sleep will be a stranger, and the morning 200 years in the making. The anticipation on the day is crucifying. Up
‘It is the evening of 11 August. Sleep will be a stranger, and the morning 200 years in the making’ any dale and glen, it reaches its peak at 5.30am when Land Rover doors start banging, dogs bark and there is a tangible atmosphere. By midday the modern day jungle drums, in the form of text messages, are posting the early results from up and down the country. For the next six weeks it is all action. To spend a week way up a magnificent glen, where the beat is chosen for the wind on the day, where there is enough time to try and catch a salmon before dinner and then to do it all again the next day – or four – would have to be the Valhalla of this world. All too quickly, the nights start drawing in. By 12 August it is still just light at 10pm but by mid-September it is getting dark at 8pm, and maybe one feels a slight dampening of the spirits as summer gives way to early autumn. You notice one or two trees have put on a golden cloak in the space of a week. Perhaps an odd leaf dances about the wooded roads. The romance and drama of the first month of the shooting season – of a long day’s walking-up, of sunshine and rain, armadas of grouse sailing through the butts and into the teeth of your withering cannonade, of the children chittering (and moving a lot) in your butt or flanking for the first time with outsize safety glasses and tired legs but fierce determination. On the other hand there is much to come; some late grouse shooting – shorter days, dark and windy with smaller bags and grouse wary and packing,
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature
providing the ultimate in challenging targets. There is the first of the partridge shooting, whether on moorland edge or down in the lowland fields; there is duck flighting into stubbles or flight ponds. For the fisherman, some of the larger rivers, such as the Tay and Tweed keep going until the end of November and the autumn runs can be highly productive. With a last longing look at the moors and the rods mainly put away, November sees the mainstay of winter sport get underway – pheasant shooting. In their many guises – from soaring archangels to fat bombers to hedgerow skippers – they provide a plethora of sport across the country. There is something very special about pheasant shooting, particularly around Christmas when everyone is keen to get out of the house, stop eating and do something active. Crunching out with the dog as dawn breaks on the frosty morning of a shoot day always holds some real magic – low sunlight on leaves of gold, hoar frosts on leafless branches or swaying winter gales and several inches of snow on the ground. Perhaps the finest deep winter sport of all is the pigeon roost shoot: the chariot of the sky swaying and swooping up his chosen flight path, surrounded by his blue grey comrades, heading
for the warm woods to digest his day’s scoff. At one moment like a driven grouse, at another like a moth and a split-second later, flaring off like a Russian Mirage fighter-jet. You can chase the massed hordes from rape field to rape field in February and March, but you will rarely be rewarded with a large bag. March and April are probably the poorest months for sport, although there is a chance of a spring sowing where the decoy patterns stands out a mile, and by then the packs of pigeons are beginning to split-up and flight a little better. If you are very keen on salmon fishing and built of stout calorific constitution, you can chance for a springer in early spring but it will be dour work with sunk lines and chattering teeth, though success is a fish so silver bright it might have come from a Bond Street jeweller. Summer is around the corner and with it the promise of trips up north or to rivers far and wide. And so the sporting year comes full circle. Around every moon there is change, anticipation, excitement, and a little harvest to be gathered. There will be good years and bad, feast and famine, wise husbandry and careful planning. The sporting harvest has been gathered since time immemorial. For sure, in Russia, Iceland and Argentina there are hordes of fish; in Spain there are loads of partridges, doves throughout South America, and bone fishing aplenty through the tropics. And yet, somehow, our green and pleasant land, with all its nooks and crannies, colourful characters and amazing sporting traditions, continues to provide a harvest that sews a magic thread from year to year to which we must cling, as to life itself. ‘Fields of Dreams: A Journey of Sporting Passion’ by Lord James Percy is out now. £30, published by The Sporting Library
Lord James Percy
27
Style & Substance Over twenty years ago Sarah Callander Beckett left a career advising Laura Ashley on public relations in New York behind her so that she could return to her family home in Cheshire, Combermere Abbey. Louisa Castle meets the lady herself and talks about life, challenges and leaving a legacy
H
idden away in the Cheshire/ Shropshire borderlands, Combermere Abbey has been labelled one of the most romantic places in Europe (by the Empress of Austria no less). As we pass beautiful stone cottages to our right, a very well stocked vegetable garden to the left and pull up to meet Sarah it is easy to see the draw a home like this could have on you. Combermere began life as a Cistercian monastery in 1133, was presented to the Cotton family following the Dissolution of the Monasteries and was bought by Sarah’s greatgrandfather, Sir Kenneth Crossley, chairman of the Crossley Car and Crossley Engineering companies in Manchester, in 1919. As we sit in the freshly restored library with the family Labrador, Zanzie, Sarah fondly begins her tale: ‘I grew up here, it was an amazing place to be as a child, exploring and playing. It was a very different place then though, it wasn’t open to the public and agriculture was the only enterprise.’ It is clear by the way Sarah speaks that Combermere holds a special place in her heart only tempted away by the bright lights of New
28
York. ‘I was on holiday in New York and then I was offered a job working for Laura Ashley. I loved it. I became PR Director for North America and was lucky enough to work directly with Laura and Bernard to build the company. It was an amazing time, we grew from four to 204 shops. It was brilliant to be a part of creating a true business empire.’ In the late 80s Sarah discovered that she had the opportunity to take on Combermere and in 1992 her love of her family home brought her back to Cheshire. ‘I soon realised it was going to be a big task. My parents had done some repairs in the 1970s but not touched the north wing. It was in a state of semi-disrepair. ‘But this was the challenge. Combermere is not just my home it is something very special and I believe that my years in PR and business taught me a lot about recognising potential. Living in America you see how the entrepreneurial spirit is encouraged and I very much had that in mind when I came back. ‘Life is amazing. It takes you what you think is one way and then leads you to another. All I’ve ever done is pull on all the experience and preparation and the terrific support from my
opposite: Sarah Callander Beckett with zanzie in the newly restored Library. Photo by Tim Bradley
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature
29
long-suffering husband, Peter (who has a great interest in art and architecture) as I run past my wacky ideas!’ [Combermere brought the couple together in 1990 when Sarah returned as custodian.] ‘So my first question was how can we diversify and introduce new business? If you are going to invest your time, money and love in something it has to be sustainable. Plus I’m a people person so all along I wanted to keep Combermere a
‘Life is amazing. It takes you what you think is one way and then leads you to another’ people-based business with buildings!’ The first thing that captured Sarah’s attention was the 19th century stables, built by Sir Stapleton Cotton in 1837, to house 36 horses, grooms and carriages. Now the stables are home to nine holiday cottages. ‘Looking at the potential and what was available elsewhere, I wanted to offer a level of quality that wasn’t available in the holiday cottage market. I wanted to offer strong measures of design and luxury
30
along with practicalities. Each cottage has a different design and we got a designer involved for each; Laura Ashley, of course; Jane Churchill; Nina Campbell. Granny’s attic didn’t feature. ‘This set us apart from what else was on offer in the market, plus it helped to put a beautiful part of the country on the map which wasn’t well known for holiday cottages. Not only that, it gave us the option to restore the Walled Gardens.’ The Walled Gardens have been lovingly restored having almost been lost between the First and Second World Wars. They comprise three large gardens and cover five and a half acres, including a fruit tree maze believed to be the only one in the world. Combermere Abbey is open to the public for tours of the house and gardens, as well as for hire for weddings or business parties. ‘I’ve been at it 22 years now and we’ve always had a strong holistic vision but the path has evolved and will continue to do so, I have no doubt! At the heart of it all is that I believe we have something special here and absolutely remain convinced that the most powerful element is the environment. We have a reason to present the Estate better and can share this with the community through lecture series, concerts,
BELOW: Sarah with one of her greatgrandfather’s Crossley motorcars
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature
open days, as well as retaining a family home.’ Combermere Abbey Estate is 1,000 acres, half of which is agriculture driven with a 150 acre lake and woodland which includes an oak tree planted in 1820 to commemorate the Duke of Wellington’s visit. In that 22 years of challenges and triumphs I wonder if Sarah ever felt she had bitten off more than she could chew? ‘I’ve never given up. I have had a sabbatical in France for a few weeks to re-energise. I know it sounds trite but I am in the role of custodian. Yes, you own it but we see it as ensuring it is fit for purpose for the next century, flexible, adaptable and financially viable. You want to leave a legacy, an ongoing proposition.’ Whether the new custodian will be Peregrine, Sarah’s 17 year-old son is not set in stone. ‘Just like I did we will encourage him to gain his life experiences and benefit from what the world has to offer. It is his choice then. ‘We’re almost there now, about 15 months left on the North Wing. One last piece is the Bridal Suite for the first night as husband and wife with a separate standalone entrance.’ The Library is the latest room to be revealed. We are sitting beneath the newly restored ceiling (undertaken
by Hare & Humphreys: conservators to the Queen and the company behind the painting and gilding on Gloriana, the royal barge built for the Diamond Jubilee celebrations), where Sarah is looking forward to welcoming concerts when the north wing restoration is complete. Having spent time in Sarah’s company, an afternoon is most definitely not enough. Her conversation is passionate and easy going yet full of fascinating insights which draw you in. Perhaps the best way I can convey this is by asking who Sarah’s ideal dinner party guests are. ‘My husband, obviously; Ricky Demarco, who launched the Edinburgh Fringe – his energy is amazing; Francine Lawrence, former editor of Country Living, a powerful energetic woman with a big heart and a big presence; Tony Goldsmith, a remarkable man who had such an influence on my life; and Xavier GeurrandHermès [of the luxury fashion retailer], a dear old friend who is Peregrine’s godfather and who is doing amazing work with his Foundation for Peace through opening channels of communication.’ Sarah Callander Beckett would definitely be on mine. (combermereabbey.co.uk/combermere-restoration.co.uk)
ABOVE FROM Left to right: The Library; Combermere Abbey; The Walled Garden
31
Variety Club Kirsty Howard Letter 2_Layout 1 15/05/2014 09:22 Page 1
Honours
Kirsty Howard Outstanding Achievement Award Saturday, 20th September 2014 Hilton Hotel, Deansgate, Manchester Kirsty has raised over £7.5 million for Francis House Children’s Hospice. She has inspired Royalty, Prime Ministers, Heads of State and world-class Sports and Entertainment industry stars with her determination and strength of character to survive against all the odds. Who could not be in awe of this amazing young lady, who has touched so many people’s lives? This event will be the highest profile Variety function of 2014 in Manchester, attended by many of Kirsty’s VIP guests. The event will include a sumptuous threecourse meal and wonderful entertainment including fabulous raffle and auction prizes. This “Outstanding Achievement Award” dinner will be instrumental in raising much needed funds for Francis House Children’s Hospice and Variety, the children’s charity.
Tickets for this prestigious event are very limited and are as the following:
£125 Platinum VIP ticket £100 Gold ticket £75 Silver ticket We do hope you can join us for this special “Outstanding Achievement Award” dinner to the amazing Kirsty Howard, who truly deserves to be recognised for her outstanding achievements in life and for her dedication to her charity work, and we are delighted this event is being held on Kirsty’s 19th Birthday, a double celebration.
Call Variety, the children’s charity for more information and to reserve your place at this prestigious event
T: 0161 236 0500 E: northwest@variety.org.uk www.variety.org.uk @VarietyGB #varietykirsty Variety, the Children's Charity | Registered Charity No. 209259 (England & Wales) and SC038505 (Scotland)
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature
A tale of two centuries As James Purdey & Sons celebrates its 200-year anniversary of crafting exceptional British guns and rifles, we meet Richard Purdey to talk hunting and heritage w o r d s : k a t e ra c o v o l i s
33
R
ichard Purdey must be the envy of most shooting aficionados. Bearing the surname of one of Britain’s most iconic gun and rifle craftsmen and the 200-year-old company, Purdey is one of those names that is synonymous with not only hunting and shooting, but with a certain luxury and style. However, ever humble and polite, Richard would be the first to admit such a long line of tradition and heritage makes him feel a little incredulous. ‘[But] I am, of course very proud; not many firms survive to achieve 200 years doing the same thing, and that’s what we have done,’ he says. Although the company is no longer in the ownership of the Purdey family, but rather the Beaumont family since 1946, and then the Richemont Group from 1994 – the fact remains that Purdey guns have been built in very much the same way as they were 200 years ago. It’s an extraordinary thought to contemplate – we can look to the luxury car industry, and even mobile phone technology to see just how much our modern lives have changed. But some of the best things in life never have to change, and that, in so many ways, is part of the accomplishment of Purdey. ‘If you spoke to Mr
34
Steinway [of Steinway & Sons], he’ll probably say that a lot of things about today’s pianos are better than they were 100 years ago,’ says Richard. ‘But the basic mechanism is the same. New technology enables one to do something slightly differently, but basically it’s the same, and the same applies to guns.’ The gun Richard has used since 1994, for example, is a Purdey (naturally) and was built in 1899. A pioneer in gunmaking, the firm’s most famous creation is its side-by-side game gun, which uses the patented Beesley self-opening system, the mechanism which forms the action of its best side-by-side game guns. To mark its bicentenary, Purdey has launched an historic trio of guns: a 12-bore side-by-side game gun, the design of which was produced in the 1880s; a 20-bore Damascus over-and-under gun, an innovation exclusive to Purdey; and a .470 express rifle – coined from the ‘Express’ train – which was developed by James Purdey and his son, James the Younger, who changed lowvelocity, short-range rifles into those that could be used for more powerful charges, at longer ranges and with more accuracy. ‘There is some sort of tactile pleasure to be had out of handling something that is a beautiful object,’ says Richard, of all Purdey’s guns. ‘I think that it is the sum total of what has gone into making the gun. They are handmade by wonderful craftsmen and each gun is an individual work of art.’
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature
previous spread: Audley House illustration, Hanslip Fletcher, 1945. below, from left to right: Richard purdey, The long room at audley house. Gun Case Label at 314 ½ Oxford Street. Bicentenary .470 Double Rifle. this page, above: Bicentenary 12-bore Side-by-Side.
These collectable items (and Purdey guns are considered the ultimate collector’s item, which are passed down from generation to generation), tell the story of Purdey’s evolution, and its milestones in carving its world-renowned niche in the craftsmanship of guns. Of course, the world of hunting and shooting is evolving more broadly, although the equipment remains much the same. ‘I think one of the nicest changes and developments that’s gone on in the world of shooting in the latter half of the 20th century and into the 21st, is the number of women that are taking up shooting or who now go out on shoots,’ says Richard. ‘Of course they also love being able to dress in nice tweeds, as do the boys. As with any sport you take up, people who take up shooting enjoy building up
‘What I love most about shooting, without question, is the good fellowship that goes with it’
otherwise be on view. You meet wonderful characters in terms of keepers, beaters, pickers-up, and you get the opportunity to meet friends old and new on the circuit. It’s something that one looks forward to eagerly with the onset of each season and looks back with pleasure over the season when it’s finished.’ Purdey has been located at Audley House in Mayfair since 1882, after moving from its original premises near Leicester Square when it first opened in 1814 – and is one of the areas most iconic fixtures. Although the building has changed over the years (the Purdey factory is no longer based there), its identity remains unchanged as quintessentially British, and is loved by many around the world. ‘There’s plenty left in the old firm yet!’ Richard says cheerfully. ‘If I could play back to you all the charming, kind and flattering comments that have been made to me over the years about the quality of our guns, you’d be here all afternoon,’ Richard tells me. Somehow, I think we’d be here much longer than that. James Purdey & Sons, Audley House, 57-58 South Audley Street, W1K (purdey.com)
a wardrobe of nice shooting wear. It’s a sort of uniform.’ Not only are your shooting skills on display – but your outfit too. Aside from the proper attire and equipment that is paramount to a good shoot, Richard says it is the camaraderie between those on the field that make it such a special pastime. ‘I hope I’m not OCD about it, but what I love most about shooting, without question, is the good fellowship that goes with it,’ he says. ‘Pulling the trigger is a very small part of what goes on during a day of shooting. It is very sociable – you get to see the most wonderful parts of the countryside that would not normally
35
Autumn
Flavours As the seasons change and our minds turn to cosy nights rather than long summer days, Lake District chef, Justin Woods shares what should be tempting our taste buds this autumn
N
aturally as a chef, I love the seasons. When the nights start to draw in and the afternoons start to turn a bit chilly, my mind begins to think about warmer, more comforting food. I start to think about some excellent local game from Grizedale, some great shellfish from the West Coast of Cumbria and I also look to the hedgerows for blackberries, elderberries, pears and if you’re super lucky maybe the odd quince here and there. I’ve lived in Cumbria for 11 years. Born in Essex and having spent most of my working life in basement kitchens of hotels in London, it was a bit of a shock to move to such an amazing county. A county that still surprises me for its rich agricultural heritage, its fantastic people and probably most importantly its natural larder. Local produce in London didn’t really exist, although there are some incredible food pioneers in London and the Home Counties, it has nothing on this corner of the British Isles. I live in Kirkby Stephen, a small farming town sitting close to the North Yorkshire and Durham borders. Both my daughters attend the local primary school and both are very lucky to have a
36
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature
from left: justin woods, venison main course, wood pigeon starter.
circle of friends that include the children of farmers, cousins of farmers, grandchildren of farmers and so on. Life in a small farming town revolves around the seasons, particularly the life of a sheep farmer. Tupping, lambing and shearing are the things that children talk about as well as One Direction, Jessie J and boys! It wasn’t until we moved here that I really recognised the whole local food movement and how it affects the local economy. It had never really occurred to me previously that the price I pay for the lamb in my kitchen affects the livelihood of a farming family in my local area. At its most simple it’s a direct link between field and kitchen. I also love using game in autumn and we get some great wood pigeon and venison from John Stott at Cartmel Valley Game Supplies. I’ve known John ever since I arrived in Cumbria and he provides an incredible array of local game. He also has a fantastic smokehouse but that’s another story! Wood pigeon is something that we use as a starter, quickly cooked, served pink it works well with some lovely sharp blackberries, some smooth Jerusalem artichoke purée, peppery watercress and a rich red wine sauce. Don’t bother using the legs though, just the breast meat. Venison is my favourite meat, low in fat, high in taste, although it can be an expensive meat. I always try to match some expensive loin with some cheaper cuts. At the restaurant we tend to buy whole saddles of venison, then butcher
it ourselves, keeping all the trimmings to make some venison mince and cleaning and trimming the loins. As chefs (and customers) have become more sophisticated in cooking and eating, we use a water bath to cook some of our cuts of meat. This involves vacuum packing our portions of food, in this case venison, cooking it at a fairly low, but food safe temperature, then a final cooking in butter. Cooking at low temperature doesn’t damage the muscle structure of the meat, producing a better eating experience. It also produces a very even cooking that you can’t achieve with conventional oven cooking. With my venison mince I would make a little venison cottage pie. Whilst a great wholesome dish on its own, I would serve it as a garnish, it works fantastically well. Roots and tubers are coming into their best now too, so to eat with the venison I would serve some roasted baby beetroots, a celeriac purée and buttered curly kale. For a little fruity richness add some lovely caramelised quince pieces. Serve the venison loin cooked pink, a miniature cottage pie and finish with a red wine sauce spiked with a little cracked black pepper. That would be my perfect autumn evening meal, along with an open fire and a delicious bottle of wine. Justin is the Executive Chef at the Greenhouse Restaurant, Castle Green Hotel, Kendal. (castlegreen.co.uk)
‘The price I pay for the lamb in my kitchen affects the livelihood of a farming family’ 37
38
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature
Home
is where the heart is Louisa Castle shelters from the inevitable autumn rain at home with Chantelle Tagoe and chats about being married to footballer Emile Heskey, being a normal girl from Liverpool and her charity, the One Goal Foundation
A photography by tim bradley, hair and make up by Artiste Creative (0770 7588410; ArtisteCreative.com) Using Motives cosmetics: Skin perfecting primer, liquid mineral powder foundation in Almond, pressed powder in Natural, So peachy blusher, Lala court palette and Coffee eye kohl, Natural lip pencil and Celeb lipgloss. (uk.motivescosmetics. com/makeupmogul)
s the heavens open and I dash, beneath my coat, through the electric gates I am warmly welcomed into Chantelle’s Hale home which she shares with her new husband and their two children, Jaden, 8, and Reigan, 6. The boys are heading out to football training and Chantelle is in full mum-mode making sure that they have everything they need. ‘I do love football which is a good job really! I’ll always be a true Liverpool fan, but as the boys play for City Academy we support them too.’ Chantelle came to our attention back in 2010 when, as part of the World Cup hype, she took part in WAGs, Kids and World Cup Dreams – the BBC documentary which followed five WAGs as they travelled to South Africa to work with children struggling to survive. (WAGs is a term Chantelle is not fond of, saying ‘I always went out with my old Liverpool mates, it wasn’t until
Emile was at Villa that I met and started hanging out with anyone related to football. It’s not a nice label but you can’t waste time worrying about it.’) ‘It’s heartbreaking when you see the TV adverts asking you to donate £2 but when you’re there it’s a whole other heartbreak. At Baphumelele Children’s Home I looked after ten children in a cluster home and I completely fell in love with them. They copied everything you said though, so by the time I left they had a strange Scouse-South African accent! ‘Emile was really supportive about the trip but he was a bit worried that I’d bring all the kids back with me! ‘Whilst I just got stuck in it was hard. I remember I worked at Two Sisters in White River and will never forget all the children’s smiling happy faces, singing and dancing without a care in the world but living with HIV and extreme
39
Emile makes me feel like such a slob as he’s so healthy and always up early everyday making juices or porridge poverty. It definitely puts things in perspective and makes you realise how lucky you are. ‘It was an amazing experience and I shall never forget it. That’s why I set up the One Goal Foundation so we could carry on doing something positive to help the orphanages in South Africa. We do lots of different events but I wanted to do something that would stand apart.
40
‘We had some friends over from America and they were amazed at how little we did in the UK for Hallowe’en – it’s for adults and kids out there. So the idea of the Hallowe’en Ball was born. This year’s event is on 1 November and we’re already planning the costumes – everyone puts in so much effort! ’ Style and design are clearly things Chantelle loves. As I admire the wallpaper in the living room, where we’re ensconced on a sofa you can disappear into, our conversation turns to fashion and interiors. ‘I think our home is a showcase for Osborne & Little. When we moved in I spent days in showrooms, at Chelsea Design Harbour and lots of other places, to get the look we wanted. Six years later, I’ve just about finished so I’m
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature
looking for a new project... ‘People have come to the house and liked the wallpaper so much they’ve bought it for themselves! Flattering I know, but I’m very individual in my style so it’s strange for me. My mum is always telling me that this or that is in fashion this season. I’m very much “well if it suits me mum I’ll wear it whether it’s in fashion or not.”’ So how would Chantelle describe her fashion sense: ‘Shoes are the answer. If you have a nice pair of shoes then you’re sorted. Louboutins are my favourite – I think they’re every girl’s favourite aren’t they? ‘I like to mix high street with designer but to be fair I’m a huge fan of Zara and of online shopping as you can probably tell!’ Chantelle points to the Zara branded boxes at the bottom of the stairs waiting to be returned. ‘Another thing I love is colour. I would say I was a girly girl. I’d love a little girl who I could do all the gorgeous girly things with. One day, maybe.’ In the meantime, Chantelle is in the process of opening a new bistro in Liverpool called Love Bites. ‘I’m very spontaneous. I saw this cafe was up for sale and thought what a great opportunity. My mum used to work there years ago too!’ Opening in September, the bistro will serve food throughout the day and Chantelle will run things with her mum. Family is everything. The walls of her home are adorned with photos of family holidays. ‘My life is my children. And when we go away we tend to hire a villa and all family and friends come with us. It’s always a great holiday. ‘We did go to Thailand on our own though, for our honeymoon, and then LA – that was just perfect.’ Chantelle married Emile in May of this year after 11 years together. So how is
By the time I left they had a strange Scouse/South African accent
married life? The answer: ‘Perfect. Although Emile makes me feel like such a slob as he’s so healthy and always up early everyday making juices or porridge.’ Tickets for the Hallowe’en Ball available from Gin & Jag Events (01565 653980, info@ginandjag.com) (@OneGoalFound/chantelletagoe.co.uk)
above: Chantelle poses with Leanne Brown and Jessica Ireland to promote the Hallowe’en Ball. Photography: Danielle Baguley.
41
In his
shoes
Recovering from his Monty Python tour, Michael Palin takes time out to chat with Natalie Anglesey about his childhood, silly walks and travelling the world
M
ichael Palin is one of the nicest men I’ve ever met. He has the appearance of a shy, retiring schoolmaster, but the impish twinkle in his eyes belies that initial impression. At our first meeting, in London, the BBC coffee machine was refusing to co-operate. ‘Machines are like authority – sometimes they need a bit of a shake before they respond,’ Michael remarks philosophically and, after a gentle nudge, the machine delivers the goods. True to his word he’s continued giving authority a gentle nudge as a tireless crusader for numerous causes ranging from supporting a remote tribe in India to fair transport fares. Now the award-winning actor, comedian, author and television presenter is recovering
42
from the sold-out Monty Python shows where he appeared on stage with old friends and colleagues John Cleese, Eric Idle, Terry Jones and Terry Gilliam. ‘We couldn’t have done these shows if we didn’t think we could make the material funny again. The format’s pretty much a bedrock of our classic sketches: The Lumberjack Song, Nudge Nudge, Argument Clinic – the things we know have worked on stage before. I’m 71 and you can’t quite do all the things you thought you could do anymore! We just enjoy ourselves because that’s what people are coming to see.’ Never one to rest on his laurels, Michael is now on his first-ever solo stage tour. ‘I’ve done a lot of one-man shows, usually just for one evening either to raise money at a charity event
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature
43
or at a book festival. It’s a nice format and I like talking to a live audience. Book publicity is a cut-throat business these days, with everyone trying to get their publicity to out-do someone else’s and the thing I really enjoy is doing a show – so I thought let’s do a whole tour.’ With The Travelling To Work: Diaries 1988-1998 published in September, this illustrated show reflects the 25 years since Michael’s popular
I’m 71 and you can’t quite do all the things you thought you could do anymore! travel programme Around The World In 80 Days. ‘We were going to be away from home for 80 days and there was no script. We were going to make it up as we went along. It turned out to be a great success.’ The last episode had 12 million viewers and led to Pole To Pole and Full Circle. By 1980, Michael had already co-written the popular Time Bandits with Terry Gilliam and appeared in the film. We met again two years
44
later when he wrote and appeared in The Missionary, co-starring Maggie Smith. In 1984, he reunited with Gilliam to appear in the controversial Brazil, but it was A Fish Called Wanda which saw Michael winning the BAFTA for Best Actor in a Supporting Role. John Cleese reunited the cast a decade later to make the sequel Fierce Creatures. At the time Michael remarked. ‘It’s always easier working with someone whom you’ve already established a rapport. You don’t spend ages worrying about things – a look will tell you if it’s not working.’ I interviewed Michael again in 1991 when he played the headmaster in Alan Bleasdale’s searing drama GBH. He’d also written and starred in American Friends, based on the true love story of his great grandfather, a fellow at St John’s College, Oxford. It was then he confided about his father’s attitude to his career. ‘Although I had an idyllic childhood, much of it spent cycling in beautiful countryside around Sheffield, I was educated at Birkdale Preparatory School and Shrewsbury School. With our background and my father going to Cambridge
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature
opposite and above: michael palin on stage at monty python live (monstly), courtesy of Eduardo Unda-Sanzana; right;: palin and his new book
and I to Oxford, I know he was disappointed that I didn’t follow an academic career. ‘The life-changing moment for me was in 1964 when I appeared in an Oxford University Revue at the Edinburgh Festival. It was the first time I realised I could make audiences laugh and possibly make a living out of it. I also knew that both parents wanted me to be happy.’ Michael certainly achieved more than most worried parents could hope. In 2000 he was made Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for his services to television. From 2009 to 2012 he was president of the Royal Geographical Society and in 2013, the year he appeared in the First World War drama The Wipers Times, written by Ian Hislop and Nick Newman, he was made a BAFTA fellow. Happily married to Helen since 1966, the couple have three children and a grandchild. ‘Having a balance between work and family is very important. When you’ve finished, stop it, leave it, and go off and enjoy yourself!’ As this is Michael’s first solo tour will he be nervous on stage alone? ‘You’ve got to be nervous before you step on stage expecting 1,000 people to listen to you for two hours. I feel the nerves begin to tingle. Even if you know people have come along because they want to see you – and that’s very nice – you’ve got to entertain them and make them feel comfortable. There’s got to be something fresh and new in every performance and that means you’ve got to keep your own energy levels up. Being a little nervous is the price you pay for the price they pay!’
Travelling To Work: Diaries 1988-1998, £25, published by Weidenfeld & Nicholson is out now at all good bookstores. (palinstravels.co.uk) Michael’s ‘Travelling To Work Tour’ will be at the Opera House on 29 September (atgtickets.com/venues/manchester)
45
CheshireMag_Boodles_Main_Ad_DPS_Ashoka_AW1.indd All Pages
B O O D L E S . C O M /A S H O K A
31/07/2014 18:40
Work by artist Norma Jeane. Image courtesy of Liverpool Biennial
Liverpool biennial:
Artist focus
Art news We bring you an update from the Liverpool Biennial of Contemporary Art, a dream day out for culture vultures and ideal art for country kitchens words: gemma knight
With the Liverpool Biennial of Contemporary Art drawing to a close on 26 October, we highlight two of our favourite artists from the Biennial group show at The Old Blind School. The Old Blind School, 24 Hardman Street, Liverpool L1 9AX (biennial.com/2014, 0330 123 0584)
Norma Jeane An American artist as unusual as they come, Norma Jeane was born in Los Angeles the night Marilyn Monroe died and consequently adopted the Hollywood icon’s birth name to create her artistic persona. Made up of multiple personalities, bodies and genders, the group show has seen the Jeane entity epitomise the weird, wonderful and profound in her works. Our favourite is ‘All Artists Are Liars’, a solarpowered ice machine which continues its constant process with its door open, letting its product melt away onto the floor – the paradoxical fate of all creative acts.
Josef strau Sign of the tiles For those on the lookout for interesting new day trip inspiration, this October will see the opening of a brand new gallery at the Jackfield Tile Museum in Shropshire, an hour and a half’s drive from Manchester. While that might seem like a bit of a hike for a day trip, this is no ordinary museum, with the new gallery boasting a world-class collection of British decorative tiles donated by private collector Mr John Scott and featuring a roll call of prestigious design names which offer a fascinating insight into the design aesthetics of the past, including ornate panels from private homes, hospitals and other public buildings. Admission to Jackfield, including the John Scott Gallery, is £8.50 for adults, £5.75 for children and £7.75 for seniors (60+) (ironbridge.org.uk, 01952 433424) 48
Born in Austria, Strau is an artist and writer, often producing text-based art. He’s known for playfully manipulating traditional aspects of literature – for example by attaching his texts to cheap lampshades to create actively ‘illuminated’ manuscripts – and at this year’s Biennial will collaborate once again with Stefan Tcherepnin (creating an artistic persona known as Strautcherepnin) to present a range of sculptures laid out as in a shop where ‘products’ exist alongside reclamation and vulnerability.
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Art
Prints charming We’ve recently discovered the sweet and subtle art prints available from John Hinchcliffe Fine Prints, a venture recently started by the daughter of internationally acclaimed artist and ceramicist John Hinchcliffe (of Hinchcliffe & Barber), who died in 2010. The prints are versions of his famed ‘Months of the Year’ collection which have been reprinted lithographically and editioned from linocuts on Somerset Velvet paper, creating a simple, rustic quality that we think would complement country kitchens and city dwellings equally. (johnhinchcliffefineprints.com)
Q&A with… Artist and portrait-painter Steve Caldwell Q: Was this career a childhood ambition? A: As a child growing up, I always loved painting but I wasn’t aware that it could be a career until I went to Art College and met some professional artists who encouraged me. So, after several years of art education, I signed up with an artists’ agent in London and graduated from painting for fun to working for a living as an illustrator. This then led to painting book covers and eventually to professional portrait painting. Q: What inspires you? A: People inspire me. I am always on the lookout for new sitters and people are a bottomless well of inspiration, they are endlessly fascinating. I concentrate on the physical aspects of my subjects but I also look to capture their mood and attitude in as much detail as possible. Other artists inspire me also, particularly the paintings of Tai-Shan Schierenberg and Lucian Freud. Q: What have been the highlights of your career? A: An early career highlight for me came when I first had a painting published back in 1995. I was not long out of college and it felt like a real achievement to me to see one of my works in print in a magazine. And my parents, who had always been so supportive were very proud indeed. A more recent highlight came this year when my work was selected for both The BP Portrait Award exhibition at The National Portrait Gallery and The Royal Society of Portrait Painters Exhibition in London. It was an amazing experience to exhibit alongside artists whose work I have admired for years. Q: What projects do you have coming up? A: I am currently working on a series of large hyperrealistic portraits for an international advertising campaign for Guinness which I am enjoying greatly. It is technically very challenging but equally rewarding to have the opportunity to work in the areas of advertising, publishing and art exhibitions. I also have several portrait commissions to complete for private clients and I hope to have a solo exhibition ready for next year. (stevecaldwell.co.uk) 49
W o r d s : M e l i s s a Em e r s o n
Life
Waves break fiercely against the rocky shores of Fogo Island, but this remote fishing community has been transformed by cutting-edge art and architecture
on the Edge
50
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature
L
ocated off the northeast coast of Newfoundland is one of the oldest Canadian settlements, the rugged, remote landscape of Fogo Island. Lying in a region deemed ‘Iceberg alley’, it might sound more of a navigation nightmare and danger zone than a place you would voluntarily holiday, but in this case, first impressions are most definitely misleading. After a 1992 moratorium dealt the final blow to its centuries-old cod fishery, the island needed new ways to survive that were both culturally and economically viable. Thanks to various investments, ideas and initiatives, the island and its people have achieved this, by promoting and working with their unique natural surroundings, culture, and historical values, rather than crumbling along with them. The regeneration of the island, now complete with luxury hotel, is centred on a unique and thoroughly engaging arts and architecture programme, and has gained international recognition for its innovative and astonishing structures. The real breakthrough in the island’s fortunes was down to Zita Cobb. Born on Fogo Island, she left to embark on an illustrious career in the fibre optics industry. Retiring a wealthy woman, she set herself philanthropic goals, and returned to Fogo Island after founding the Shorefast Foundation (a registered Canadian charity) in 2003. Named after the line used to attach a traditional cod trap to the shore, the foundation symbolises the island’s heritage, but also the importance of the ties that connect people to places and their communities. The islanders hoped to find ways to inspire the younger generation to stay and enjoy life on the island,
before its current population of around 2,700 began to decline irreparably. One of Shorefast’s major organisations, established in 2008, is Fogo Island Arts. It encourages prosperity through artistic practice and meaningful partnerships, and has implemented yearly artist residencies, exhibitions, publications, and the building of four (so far) unique studio spaces. Inspiration abounds, as the island’s climate dictates seven distinct seasons, with the Ice (March), Berry (September-October) and Trap Berth (June) seasons sitting alongside the more familiar, and transforming the landscape dramatically throughout the year. Shorefast wanted to extend this prosperity and enjoyment of the island, to help other
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Long Studio; Long Studio; Tower Studio; Remote access to Tower Studio
51
Feature | The CHESHIRE Magazine
businesses starting up through their microloan scheme. So to really kickstart tourism, they began construction of a luxury hotel. Fogo Island Inn, completed in 2013, has 29 guest suites and boasts unbroken views of the North Atlantic. Todd Saunders of Saunders Architecture was responsible for the building; a Canadian native, he is now based in Bergen in Norway and was also responsible for the island’s art studios. The hotel’s interiors are warm and inviting, with every single detail down to the wallpaper patterns, custom designed and locally sourced and crafted. The local touch is the lifeblood of everything the hotel offers, from dining on foraged, seasonal ingredients, to signature experiences hosted by
Saunders uses architecture to express an essential fact about life in the region, in which dwellings create a strong bulwark and safe haven against constantly changing weather conditions – fogoislandarts.ca local guides. These range from iceberg marine tours and seal watching, to stargazing and art workshops. Reflecting the island’s focus on art, the hotel also has its own gallery. Showing recently were works by Silke Otto-Knapp, a celebrated German artist who was one of 2014’s artists in residence. Ocean life however, is still a key historical draw and Shorefast also promotes ocean sustainability through research and education. Never giving up on its roots, the island seems to have come full circle. It offers an experience that is intensely local, but with global appeal, meanwhile achieving the ideals of geotourism and setting an example for other threatened communities worldwide.
Bridge Studio (inside) All images © Bent René Synnevåg
52
The Studios Designed by Saunders Architecture, there are now four in operation (Bridge Studio, Squish Studio, Tower Studio and Long Studio), forming an integral part of Fogo Island Arts. Scattered across the island, and appearing to be precariously perched on the rocks, each has a different design and size. Saunders created striking, contemporary clean lines and geometric shapes reminiscent of Scandinavian style, while the rough finishes, wood, and stilt details represent the island’s vernacular building tradition. Dramatic monochromes complete the contemporary edge. Local materials were transported by hand, clocking up no air miles, and this environmental approach is also reflected by the composting toilets and solar powered electricity.
Cheshire Mag Full Page_Layout 1 21/05/2014 10:35 Page 1
Casa Tessuti T H E H O U S E of F A B R I C S and H O M E F U R N I S H I N G S
UP TO
50
%
OFF
SUPPLIERS OF DESIGNER FABRICS & LEADING BRAND FURNISHINGS AT PREFERENTIAL PRICES FABRICS ~ WALLCOVERINGS CURTAINS ~ CARPETS ~ LIGHTING UPHOLSTERY ~ FITTING If you would like to arrange an initial meeting, without any obligation, please call Leo on 07450 106435 or email on leo@casa-tessuti.co.uk
ARMANI CASA, BAKER, BELLA FIGURA, C&C MILANO, CHARLES EDWARDS, FENDI, GEORGET TI, HOLLAND & SHERRY, HOLLY HUNT, J ROBERT SCOT T, JAB, JANE CHURCHILL, NINA CAMPBELL, PHILIPE HUREL, RALPH LAUREN, VAUGHAN & MANY MORE
The sculptor Veteran artist Matthew Shaw is a man who understands both the natural, and sculpted, beauty of stone WORDS: JENNIFER MASON
T
aking his cue from great artists including Moore, Hepworth, Deacon and Schwitters, Matthew Shaw’s passion has taken him round the world collecting inspiration for his work. ‘I spent time at an Art School in Cyprus as well as a Stone Carving Village in Zimbabwe, which was where I really developed my interest in sculpting in stone. This passion is at the root of the work I create now,’ he tells me. Exploring different locations and materials appeals to his ‘hands on’ nature; his ‘calling’, as he describes it. ‘Creating works that can be touched and interacted with has always been important to me, and finding forms and textures in nature that encourage this, feed into my work,’ he explains. With sculpture, the material often means as much as the design when it comes to the feel
and finish of a piece. ‘In recent years, I have made a return to working in stone from Zimbabwe as it offers such variety in terms of colours, textures and finish,’ Matthew elaborates. ‘But I have also started to explore stone that is available in the UK. I’m beginning to discover how different these stones are, and how they influence the final work in a way that is like having a conversation with the material.’ The juxtaposition of the two types of stone is something that Mathew is incorporating into his work, creating pieces like The Whispering Couple in pairs, to highlight the differences between the two mediums. However, Matthew’s work goes beyond his stone sculptures, or even the bespoke pieces he designs for discerning clients; for the last few years he has been devising and delivering creative workshops, residencies, open studios and family days at Tate Britain and Tate Modern, using sculpture and physical art to teach and encourage young children as part of the Big Lottery Funded Big and Small project. I ask Matthew what he’s planning for the future. ‘I really want to start making larger scale work and enter into making pieces for public display,’ he replies. ‘Much of my stone sculpture up until now has been limited in size by what I can personally lift and move about, but my ambition is to work on something altogether bigger and more impressive.’ (matthewshaw.info)
‘With sculpture, the material often means as much as the design’ 54
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Art
Whisper
Two Tone
Whispering Couple
Goddess
55
www.bachet.fr
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Art
PRIZE LOTs
1
#1 Colonna by Alighiero Boetti Created by one of the movement’s most famous and internationally acclaimed artists, ‘Colonna’ seems at first to resemble a classical Greek marble column, but is in fact made of simple paper doilies stacked onto an iron rod. Each doily is signed by an artist or intellectual, including the likes of Michelangelo Pistoletto, Marisa Merz, Giulio Paolini and Boetti himself. Exhibition and auction at Christie’s, 16 October; Estimated range: £1,500,000 – £2,000,000 (christies.com)
#2 Untitled by Jean-Michel Basquiat Taken from one of the most important European collections of Contemporary Art, the collection of Alessandro Grassi, this wonderful example of acrylic and canvas was exhibited as part of the artist’s first solo show at Emilio Mazzoli Gallery in Modena, Italy, in 1981. The
3
2
work will be auctioned as part of Sotheby’s Contemporary Art Evening Auction and is both dated and inscribed on the reverse. Exhibition and auction at Sotheby’s, 17 October; Estimated range: £1,500,000 – 2,000,000 (sothebys.com)
#3 The Ceres Collection of cameo rings This stunning collection of 101 engraved cameo and intaglio rings dates from the 4th Century BC right through to the 19th Century and was collected by an American family over the course of the 1900s. Several gems depict the Roman deity Ceres, goddess of fertility and the harvest, while others depict Greek and Roman mythological scenes and portraits of historical figures. Exhibition and auction at Bonhams, 17 September; Estimated range: approximately £100,000 (no reserve) (bonhams.com)
from left: image courtesy of christie’s images ltd; Image: © sotheby’s; image courtesy of bonhams
57
Return of the Pocket Watch In celebration of the year of the horse, and Longines’ rich equestrian history, the brand has created a beautiful rose gold pocket watch, the back of which is decorated with a horse captured mid-jump. The model is manually wound and has a diameter of 49.50 mm. Its white dial features a railway track minute-ring, large painted black Arabic numerals and a second minute-ring with red numerals. Pink Breguet hands complete the harmony. The model is a re-issue of a 1927 original, which can be seen at the Longines museum in Saint-Imier. The Longines Equestrian Lépine is available exclusively through Wempe for £24,060
Watch news An incredible new perpetual calendar piece, TUDOR’s newest unveiling, and a very serious ladies’ watch from the master-crafters at Zenith w ord s : r i c h ard b ro w n
Paint it Black Say hello to the sultry silhouette of H. Moser & Cie’s Perpetual Calendar Black Edition. When it was first launched, the timepiece was awarded the Grand Prix de l’Horlogerie de Genève prize for best watch with a complication. Housed in a DLC-coated titanium case, the recently unveiled Black Edition is about the sleekest creation the watch world has given us this year. The watch adjusts for leap years and indicates the month via a small arrow-shaped third hand that points to the 12 hour indices, which double-up as markers for the 12 months of the year. The piece is also one of the few perpetual calendars that can be adjusted forward and back at any time of day, without risking damage to the movement or a visit to your local watchmaker. Perpetual Calendar Black Edition, £32,900, H. Moser & Cie (h-moser.com) 58
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Collection
Shining Star Still relatively rare in the watch world is the manufacturer that takes ladies watches seriously. One brand that does do so is Zenith. This year, the Swiss watchmaker presents three new versions of its Star collection. The first comes with an understated white mother-of-pearl dial set with 12 brilliant-cut hour-markers and rimmed by an inner bezel of diamonds. The second has a dial bearing just 12 diamonds, which serve as hour-markers, while the number of diamonds on the third edition totals more than 750. Now, where to find a watchmaker that doesn’t believe diamonds are a girl’s best friend? Star 33mm with rose gold case, gem set white mother of pearl dial and satin strap £11,000, Zenith (zenith-watches.com)
Singlehanded Simplicity For those who’ve yet to discover MeisterSinger, the German brand is the master of single-hand timepieces. The company draws on the heritage of old sundials and tower clocks to create watches that are highly-legible and highly-striking. The MeisterSinger N° 03 incorporates a case that measures 43mm in diameter, an automatic movement and is available with either a leather strap or steel mesh bracelet. We’d opt for the bracelet. N° 03, £1,380 on strap, £1,670 on steel bracelet, MeisterSinger (meistersinger.net)
ONE TO WATCH Each month, we ask an expert to select their timepiece of the moment from the watch world’s most exciting creations:
‘The slender, elongated lugs, domed crystal and dial of this watch are all details shared by the first TUDOR Submariners. Fitted with a steel bracelet or leather distressed strap, and supplied with a complimentary ribbon strap, it is a watch for different occasions.’ – Lee Chadwick, Manager at David M Robinson’s Manchester showroom
The Heritage Black Bay, Price from £2,070 St Ann’s Square, Manchester, M2 7JB (0161 834 0217, davidmrobinson.co.uk) 59
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
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Collection
Drop dead
gorgeous T
his stunning neck ring (yes, it’s the first one we’ve seen too) was designed for Georg Jensen in 1971 by none other than the late Astrid Fog, the distinctive veteran designer responsible for many of the brand’s most famous pieces since she released her first jewellery collection in 1969. Praised for her modernist sensibilities and inventive use of simple, bold shapes, this neck ring from the Archive Collection is sterling silver and consists of a hand drawn silver thread and organically formed drops, each one shaped differently. It’s never been produced before, so if you’re hoping to kick-start your autumn/winter look with a unique statement piece, we’d say you need look no further. £1,700, David M Robinson, 14 Railway Street, Altrincham, WA14 2RE (davidmrobinson.co.uk)
61
Jewellery news Get lost in the newest addition to Boodles’ Icon range, catch up on all the happenings of Paris’ Biennale des Antiquaires, and fall in love with the incredible Rubik’s Cube ring from Myriam Soseilos WORDS: OLIVIA SHARPE
Two Birds, One Stone Arguably the most important event in the jewellery calendar, the Biennale des Antiquaires recently took place in Paris and once again, it did not disappoint. One of the most talkedabout pieces on display there was this Bird Cage clock by Chanel, a beautiful interpretation of a miniature jewellery birdcage found in Coco Chanel’s 31 Rue Cambon apartment. Those of you who had the misfortune to miss the event will now be given the chance to see some of its finest pieces at Harrods; the store will be hosting its own exclusive rendition this month. Nine of the official Biennale brands – including Graff, Cartier, Piaget, Van Cleef & Arpels, Chanel, Chaumet, Bulgari, Boucheron and Dior – will present a selection of their most show-stopping pieces. (harrods.com)
62
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Collection
On the Flip Side One seemingly unproductive afternoon when she was playing with some matchsticks, Cypriot designer Myriam Soseilos was suddenly struck with an idea of creating jewellery pieces which could move and adapt. From this, the Transformers collection (which won her the accolade of Designer of the Year 2013 at Treasure) was born. Comprising bracelets, rings, necklaces and earrings, each piece has a simple, geometric design inspired by modern architecture. The aptly-named Rubik’s Cube ring features sides made up of different coloured precious gemstones which can be swivelled around to create a multi-faceted effect. The designer’s latest Naked Square collection explores the “grammar of shapes” and turns any preconceptions of classic diamond jewellery on their head by combining traditional materials with cutting-edge designs. MyriamSOS, available at Wolf & Badger (wolfandbadger.com)
A New Icon We love the Boodles Icon range so news that the brand has just added a new collection to the ranks went down very well at The Cheshire Magazine. Following in the footsteps of the ever popular Raindance and Blossom designs, Maze features stunning, delicate pieces swathed in gold and diamonds which recreate the concentric circles and precise lines of a traditional labyrinth. Available online since September 1, the whole collection arrives in stores from October – and you can bet we’ll be first in line. (boodles.com)
Into the Groove This year, Piaget has commemorated its 140th anniversary by creating a collection of 88 jewellery pieces and 37 watches based around its halcyon days in the 60s and 70s, regarded as a stellar period in the company’s creative history. Christened Extremely Piaget, the bold designs play with asymmetry and stylisation, and colour plays a prominent role. Noteworthy pieces include an oval jade dial timepiece set with diamonds and emeralds (which has been modelled on the Piaget watch created in 1965 and owned by Jackie Kennedy) and a pink gold mesh necklace featuring turquoise beads and marquise-cut diamonds that pays tribute to the house’s ‘golden era’ of jewellery making. Extremely Piaget collection, POA, (piaget.com)
CUTTING EDGE To celebrate Antoni Gaudi’s birthday which took place earlier this year, fine jeweller D’Joya has created 25 pieces, 20 of which are on display and five are bespoke commissions, inspired by the pioneering artist and his most famous works:
“Antoni Gaudi was a visionary, a tour de force, a creative genius and an inspiration… The collection pays homage to this celebrated Catalan modernist, who transformed buildings in Barcelona into glittering works of art. His decorative approach to ceramics, ironwork and stained glass evolved into a distinctive aesthetic that still enthralls today”
(djoya.com)
63
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 | Collection
#3
#4
#2
#1
#5
#13
#12
sleepy
Hollow
Alexander McQueen A/W14
#14
#6
See your way through the enchanted forest with sparkling jewels and embellished fabrics
#8 #9
#11
#7
#10
#1 Sunburst crystal necklace, £840, Oscar de la Renta (oscardelarenta.com) #2 Silver-plated Swarovski crystal bow ring, £180, Miu Miu (net-a-porter.com) #3 Thorn long finger ring set in 18-carat white gold with black diamonds, £12,400, Stephen Webster (stephenwebster.com) #4 Forest single ring, from a selection, As29 (as29.com) #5 Zelia necklace in silver, £515, Jenny Packham (jennypackham.com) #6 Crystal flower choker, £895, Alexander McQueen (alexandermcqueen.com) #7 Pavé teardrop earrings, £420, Oscar de la Renta, as before #8 Vintage lace cuff, £624, Aurelie Bidermann (farfetch.com) #9 Superstone open ring set in sterling silver with white mother-of-pearl, £350, Stephen Webster, as before #10 Kalmia crystal bracelet, £182, Jenny Packham, as before #11 Black diamond lace cuff in 18-carat white gold with black rhodium, £24,000, Georgina Skan (georginaskan.com) #12 Granada collection earrings, £22,814, Sylva & Cie (farfetch.com) #13 Wing of Desire earring, £34,000, Jessica McCormack (jessicamccormack.com) #14 Lady Stardust Crystal Haze ring set in 18-carat white gold with hematite and white diamonds, £7,400, Stephen Webster, as before 65
Cycle style Sport and fashion are natural partners. Whether it’s Stella McCartney designing for Adidas or Alexander McQueen’s sneaker collection for Puma, the two go hand-inhand. For footwear craftsmen Berluti, its relationship with sport is historic; accepting special requests from illustrious clientele since the 1920s including bespoke ski boots for Hollywood icon Greta Garbo. The brand is celebrating its elegant and athletic history with the release of a bicycle created with French bike manufacturer Cycles Victoire. With the aesthetic of an early 20th-century delivery bike and a made-to-measure carrier, it’s the perfect ride for the urban gentleman. Bike, from £5,000, Berluti (berluti.com)
Fashion news A modern classic Not only does the start of a new season mean fabulous new collections, but also updated versions of our favourite iconic pieces. We’re particularly excited about Stella McCartney’s coveted Falabella bag, which now comes in a beautifully indulgent quilted fabric and is, dare we say it, better than ever. We particularly love this grown-up backpack, fashion’s new ‘It’ shape, which is sure to be one of next season’s most desirable pieces of arm candy. Bag, from a selection, Stella McCartney (stellamccartney.com)
On the hunt A day spent hunting in the countryside calls for a versatile jacket to challenge the unpredictable British weather. Irish brand Dubarry, named after famous French courtesan Madame du Barry, has the solution; a functional, all-purpose piece, in a waterproof yet breathable fabric. With additional details such as hand-warmer pockets, a retainer strap for easy access to your cartridges and Gore-Tex lining, it’s ideal for your shooting season. The jacket makes the seamless transition from country sportsman to everyday overcoat; just remember to wipe off the mud first. Rathmullen jacket, £499, Dubarry (dubarryboots.com)
66
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Fashion
Aquazzura X Olivia Palermo After hours spent buried in Olivia Palmero’s closet and Edgardo Osorio’s archives, the pair have emerged from their creative bubble to unveil a collection of footwear. Osorio, founding designer of Italian brand Aquazzura, has created detailed styles inspired by possessions including vintage Victorian necklaces. Available online from September, expect elegant over the knee boots, laced-up gladiator sandals and the suede bootie – made with Aquazzura’s patented cashmere leather. (net-a-porter.com)
Call to Arms Earlier this year, Burberry Prorsum revisited its heritage by launching a special initiative to celebrate its most iconic product; the trench coat. This September, the brand is once again delving into its archive; this time paying tribute to the inspiration and craftsmanship behind its classic scarves and blankets. New for A/W14, the womenswear poncho and collection of scarves come in the signature Burberry colours including trench and camel, and a special monogramming service will be available in Burberry stores from September. (uk.burberry.com)
On your marks From jewel-encrusted cycling shorts at Chanel’s Paris couture show to Stella McCartney’s Wimbledon wardrobe, this summer has proven more than ever that fashion and sportswear are no longer mutually exclusive. If the summer’s sporting schedule hasn’t inspired you to revamp your workout wardrobe, then Harrods’ newly expanded sportswear section surely will. Brands such as Armani EA7 and Lucas Hugh will be available, and with stylish pieces such as this Fendi hoody, we’ll be hitting the gym every day of the week. Towelling Hoody, £440, Fendi (harrods.com)
Start your engines Regardless of how experienced you are at travelling, the art of fitting all the different pieces of luggage in the car in an organised structure is a skill that’s hard to refine. However, if you’re the owner of a BMW i8, Louis Vuitton has made your life easier. The French fashion house has teamed up with the German car brand to create a special set of luggage that fits perfectly into the electric sports car. The four-piece collection comes in charcoal grey, and all the bags have the signature ‘LV’ logo laser-engraved on to the Damier fabric. Luggage set, from £2,570, Louis Vuitton (louisvuitton.com) 67
Drama
Queens Add dramatic, decadent and delicate ruffles to give your pre-autumn look a powerful edge p h o t o g r a p h y: d o m i n i c n i c h o l l s s t y l i s t: a n n a w o o d h a m
Coral ruffle top, POA, Pavane (pavane-london.com). White wide leg wool trousers, ÂŁ279, Lulu Liu (lulu-liu.com) 68
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Fashion
69
70
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Fashion
above Patterned shirt, £185, Just Cavalli (harrods.com). Short frill skirt, £223, Halston Heritage (harveynichols.com).
OPPOSITE White ruffle dress, POA, Yuvna Kim (yuvnakim.com). White briefs, £125, La Perla (laperla.com); Pearl court shoes, £360, Gianmarco Lorenzi (gianmarcolorenzilondon.com). Grey tulle head piece with Swarovski rhinestones, £520, Alexandra Harper Millinery London (alexandraharpermillinery.com).
71
Fashion | The CHESHIRE Magazine
ABOVE Green ruffle dress, £1,995, Burberry Prorsum (burberry.com). Gold link bracelet, £749, Joubi (joubi.com). Jewel bag, £690, Amishi (amishi.eu).
OPPOSITE White ruffle wool top, £590, Viktor + Rolf (viktor-rolf.com). Black wide leg trousers, £600, Antonio Berardi (antonioberardi.com). Grey suede open toe heels, £600, Sergio Rossi, 207a Sloane Square, SW1X (020 7811 5950). Necklace, £200, Maiocci, as before; Corbula ring, £1,042, KOKKU (kokku.co.uk).
72
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Fashion
73
CREDITS Stylist: Anna Woodham @ Frank Agency Make-up: Cassie Steward @ LHA Represents using MAC Cosmetics Hair: Julie Read @ Carol Hayes using Bumble and bumble Photographer’s Assistant: Sam Thirgood Stylist’s Assistant: Sarah Mensah Model: Cornelia Tat @ Storm Location: Strawberry Hill House (strawberryhillhouse.org.uk)
74
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Fashion
above White ruffle dress, £1,095, Chloé (net-a-porter.com). Camel coat, £1,425, Max Mara (matchesfashion.com).
OPPOSITE Green roll neck jumper, £215, Paul & Joe (net-a-porter.com). Grey organza collar blouse £595, John Rocha (johnrocha.ie); Blush cropped trousers, £235, Max Mara (matchesfashion.com). Pointed slingback high heels, £840, Paul Andrew (my-wardrobe.com). Bracelet, £130, Maiocci, as before.
75
Do your reading glasses get in the way of moments like these?
Have you noticed a recent decline in your ability to read text on your phone, restaurant menus, or the newspaper and are now using reading glasses? Or have you always relied on glasses for reading or seeing things in the distance? At Crewe-Brown Vision, we specialise in proven, safe corrective eye procedures that permanently remove your dependence on glasses and contact lenses. We offer comprehensive and detailed consultations at our Manchester clinic, where we will diagnose the nature of your unique vision difficulties, and advise you on the treatment most suited to your individual needs. Each patient is seen and treated by Mr. Wayne Crewe-Brown, MB ChB MMed, a world-renowned Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon who has transformed the lives of over 20,000 individual patients over the course of a distinguished 30 year career. Contact us today on 0161 819 2950 to arrange your no-obligation consultation or to speak with us for more information. Or, alternatively, visit our website, www.crewe-brownvision.com, to learn more about your treatment options.
info@crewe-brownvision.com
0161 819 2950 10 St John St, Manchester, M3 4DY
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Fashion
Height of
Fashion
W
e are absolutely not pulling your leg when we tell you that this is a shoe – but not just any shoe. This is the limited edition Zaha Hadid Nova, an exclusive collaboration between international footwear brand, United Nude, and the award-winning female architect behind the 2012 Olympics’ Aquatic Centre and Guangzhou Opera House. The 16cmhigh pieces of wearable art feature a leather lining and carbon fibre wedge (making them cosy and very light), and are available in black, rose gold and silver chrome. In perfect accordance with United Nude’s eternal ethos of innovative design combined with total comfort, we can assure you that these beauties are shockingly easy to walk in – but even those with £1,300 to spare will have to hurry, as these pioneering platforms are selling out fast. (unitednude.com)
77
BACK PAIN? SPORTS INJURY? SKIN TIGHTENING? STRESS? INSOMNIA? CELLULITE? ANTI-AGING?
WBC IS THE ANSWER
The Mozhgan Taheri Clinic has NOW introduced WBC WHAT IS WBC? Whole Body Cryotherapy (WBC) is the exposure of the entire body to extreme cold to stimulate the body’s natural response to inflammation, pain, spasms and promote healing. Proven to improve joint and muscular function from sporting injuries and accelerate recovery WBC can also be used to treat chronic arthritic diseases and skin conditions. For many, though, it is an answer to the everyday stresses and strains, stimulating endorphin production, easing tension and promoting sleep. On a beauty level it can reduce cellulite (lifting and lightening legs), increase collagen production and accelerate metabolism for weight management burning up to 800 calories.
Mozhgan Taheri Clinic, 3a Alma Lane, Wilmslow, SK9 5ND
01625 402080
www.mozhgantaheri.com
The CryoSauna is used by professional athletes at the highest levels of the NBA, the NFL and the Premiere League.
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Fashion
#2
#1
#3
#4
#12
#11
image: courtesy of holland & holland
Rural
#10
chic
Embrace your inner country gent or Lady of the Manor with our favourite examples of trendy tweed and rustic glamour
#5
#6
#7
#9 #8
#1 Hereford tweed cap, £42, Really Wild Clothing (reallywildclothing.co.uk) #2 Hand-knit shoot socks, £100, William Evans (williamevans.com) #3 Right & Left grouse cufflinks, solid 925 sterling silver with sapphire eyes, £189, Westley Richards (westleyrichards.com) #4 Cartridge bag, £150, Croots (crootsengland.co.uk) #5 Scarf, £295, Holland & Holland (hollandandholland.com) #6 Heather multi tweed waistcoat, £225, Really Wild Clothing (reallywildclothing.co.uk) #7 Seville leather boots in Chocolate, £295, Really Wild Clothing (reallywildclothing.co.uk) #8 18ct. gold cock pheasant brooch with ruby and enamel eye, POA, Harvey & Gore (harveyandgore.co.uk) #9 Sutherland bag, £545, Westley Richards (westleyrichards.co.uk) #10 Chasseurnord zipped and neoprene-lined boots, from £294.95, Le Chameau (bestboots.co.uk) #11 Jacket, £425, Really Wild Clothing (reallywildclothing.co.uk) #12 Hand-sewn gauntlet-style deerskin gloves, £160, Purdey (purdey.com) 79
Beauty on Board Looking glamorous 24/7 on a boat is no easy task; with strong winds, spraying water and high intensity sun, there are dozens of weather conditions to consider when it comes to maintaining your beauty regime. So Josh Wood Atelier has taken inspiration from one Kim Kardashian (who reportedly had an army of beauticians on her honeymoon to ensure she always looked photo-fabulous) by partnering with leading yacht sale and charter company, Edmiston, to offer clients a range of luxury hair and beauty services while on board. The Atelier team will fly direct from salon to yacht anywhere in the world for a range of packages, including hairdressing options (such as colour, cut and keratin treatments) and facials, massages, tanning, waxing and make-up from specialist beauticians. There is also a Katherine Daniels Dress Size, Down Size body treatment for those of you who wish to maintain your pre-holiday toned figure. Get on board now. (edmiston.com; joshwoodcolour.com)
Beauty news Serge of all trades Serge Lutens is what we call a Renaissance man; his various titles include photographer, filmmaker, hair stylist, fashion designer and perfumier, and his impressive career is testimony to his talent, having worked with Christian Dior and Shiseido. He launched his eponymous beauty brand in 2000 and we’ve been waiting in anticipation for each mysterious product launch. His summer scent doesn’t disappoint. L’Orpheline, which translates as ‘The Orphan’, is inspired by his tumultuous childhood and contains the key note of cedar wood. A spritz on the wrist tells a snippet of Lutens’ fascinating history. L’Orpheline, £88 for 50ml, Serge Lutens (sergelutens.com)
80
The bronzed and the beautiful
Murad miracle
Bobbi Brown has answered your late-summer beauty prayers with its subtle, pared-back Surf & Sand collection, ideal for an effortless beach-to-bar transition. The shimmering, neutral shades of the Sand Eye Palette are gorgeously sheer, acting as a delicate enhancement to any natural holiday glow. With three new eyeshadows, you can mix and match to your heart’s desire, adding darker tones to create a smouldering post-sunset look. Eye Palette, £48 (bobbibrown.co.uk)
Whether you work in a city or not, it’s often our skin which suffers most from the constant onslaught of modern pollution, and as we all know – whether or not you have naturally flawless skin – blocked pores are nobody’s friend. Enter Murad’s Blackhead & Pore Clearing Duo, a two-step treatment which includes a blackhead remover and pore refining sealer which draw out stubborn debris and excess oil then seal the pores to keep them clean. At last, no more painful extraction sessions. £50 from John Lewis, Wilmslow Rd, Cheadle, SK8 3BZ (murad.co.uk)
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Beauty
The Future’s Perfect The award-winning brand behind the miracle Eight Hour Cream, Elizabeth Arden, has announced the launch of a new skincare collection; Flawless Future Powered by Ceramide. The range has been designed to combat the first signs of ageing brought on by stress, which can accelerate the ageing process by up to ten years, causing redness, dullness and fine lines. Products include the Caplet Serum, Moisture Cream SPF 30 and Eye Gel. (debenhams.com) TREATMENT OF THE MONTH lush spa’s validation facial Trust me, this is no ordinary spa. With only six locations dotted about the country, a firm focus on beautifying you inside as well as out, and a generous dose of those gorgeous products that we all know and love, Lush has created something truly special and remarkably rare. The Validation Facial, a sixty minute treatment designed to work on your self-esteem as much as your pores, begins with a quick trip to the shop floor where, slate tray in hand, your therapist helps you to choose the twelve products which will be used based on your personal preferences of smell, texture and result. Then it’s back into the spa, a refreshingly warm and welcoming place which feels part-country kitchen and partapothecary’s lab, where the therapist asks you to describe how you want to feel mentally and physically after your treatment. Then it’s lights down and time to shimmy under the towels and into a state of hypnotic bliss. The spas work with their own composer to create a different stream of music for each kind of treatment, so there’ll be no whale sounds or panpipes here. Instead, my facial was accompanied by soothing sea shanties interspersed with the sounds of the Dorset coast and the founders of Lush gently explaining the spa’s ethos and encouraging you to ‘love your skin and your mind’. Sixty minutes of expert exfoliating, polishing and kneading later I smell incredible and my face feels smooth and soft – but better yet, I honestly do feel uplifted and more positive, truly restored in mind, body and, quite frankly, spirit. My therapist had said that the Lush Spa treatments are designed to leave you feeling as you do when you’ve had great news or are falling in love and – ridiculous though it sounds – I honestly do. Validation Facial (60 mins), £75 9-11 Whitechapel, Liverpool, Merseyside L1 6DS, 0151 236 6952 (lush.co.uk/spa)
On the face of it As he was originally an architecture graduate, it’s no surprise that when it comes to beauty, Tom Ford’s philosophy is built on structure and balance. His Face Architecture range revolves around the notion that humans subconsciously associate beauty with symmetry and balance, and at the core of the Flawless Complexion Collection is the Traceless Perfecting Foundation, a hydrating, humidity-resistant formula that contains a skin-nourishing complex. Traceless Perfecting Foundation, £62, Tom Ford (selfridges.com)
Mac comes to Manchester We’ve been jealously coveting the fantastic M∙A∙C Lipsticks Kiosks since they arrived at Selfridges London back in May, sporting a whopping 176 different colours with over 900 lipsticks at each of three kiosks and helping the capital’s women find the perfect shades. But fret no longer ladies of the north, because from September 1 the kiosks will be coming to Selfridges Exchange Square, with gorgeous hues such as Candy Yum Yum, So Chaud, Up the Amp, Morange and Impassioned – but hurry, as they’ll only be stopping by for a month, and are guaranteed to be popular. (selfridges.com) 81
Pink Science Since The Cheshire Magazine is supporting Breast Cancer Campaign and its inaugural Pink Ribbon Ball in Manchester, we find out more about the research being undertaken here and the people who could provide the answers Words: LOUISA CASTLE
82
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature
D
OPPOSITE PAGE: dr paul shore and his wife linda. RIGHT: Pink Ribbon Ball Committee Breast Cancer Visit
r Paul Shore and his team at Manchester University have just embarked upon a three-year research project, funded by Breast Cancer Campaign, which hopes to understand how two proteins (Runx2 and CBFß) are involved in the spread of breast cancer to the bone. We visited his lab with the Pink Ribbon Ball Committee to understand what this could mean and see how far the team has come. Now is the time to hand over to Dr Shore to explain: ‘Runx2 is what we call a master regulator of the skeleton, which means it interacts with another protein, CBFß to switch on genes to tell bone cells to make bone. Together they form a complex which we found in breast cells. We then realised that breast cancers spread to the skeleton because they’re being tricked into thinking they’re bone cells, rather than breast cells. ‘Osteoblasts are cells that make the skeleton and breast cancer cells use some of the same genes as osteoblasts under the control of the complex. This means the breast cells think they are bone and become more bone like, allowing them to survive when they move to the skeleton.’ 50,000 people a year are diagnosed with breast cancer and live with the threat. 12,000 people die each year from the disease and primarily this is due to secondary breast cancer where the cancer has spread to the skeleton (mestastasised). ‘Bone contains osteoblasts, which make bone, and osteoclasts, which break down bone,’ explains Dr Shore. ‘Breast cancer cells stimulate osteoclasts to break down bone while also inhibiting the osteoblasts from producing bone to replace it. Bone is lost around the breast tumour which leads to bone fractures and can be very debilitating. ‘We’re trying to find out which genes in the complex are switching on to allow breast cancer cells to occupy the bone. If we can get rid of the CBFß can we stop the cells from changing identity? And therefore stop cells from mestastasising?’ Dr Shore has already discovered that when CBFß is removed the cells return to a ball like
‘If we can get rid of the CBFß can we stop the cells from changing identity’ shape and do not change form, elongate and grow outwards like tentacles (mestastasise), and do not want to spread to the bone. The team has also discovered that a protein made by breast cancer cells, called sclerostin is hijacked and stops new bone being made. The findings are significant although important future work continues to discover how to target sclerostin and ultimately block the switch which makes cells want to move to bone in the first place. The work of Dr Shore and his team is clinical and rigorous. It is also personal. In 2008 Dr Shore’s wife, Linda, found a lump in her breast. Today, Linda’s cancer is under control and family life is back to normal. ‘It’s been a difficult journey but my understanding of breast cancer has meant we’ve known where we are going, which has helped,’ Paul concludes. ‘It has just reinforced in me the importance of pursuing my research.’ (breastcancercampaign.org/pinkribbonballmanchester)
83
Claire’s Story
C
laire Dickens is a member of the Committee which visited Dr Shore’s laboratory. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2009 and is currently undergoing preventative treatment. Claire shares her journey with Louisa Castle over coffee, a cheeky shortbread and a snoring Labrador called Rosie. Claire found a tiny lump in her breast in October 2009. ‘I wasn’t really checking and didn’t think too much about it. I went to the doctor the next day, thinking they would say keep an eye on it and that it was probably a cyst, but no, they sent me to Chester where I had a scan and biopsy. The lump was perfectly round and they said they were 99 per cent sure it was nothing to worry about; it didn’t look like a typical cancerous growth. ‘The following Monday, we went back to the consultant in Chester and they said that they were really shocked and I was told it was cancer, a Grade 3 tumour. [Grade 3 means the tumour does not look like normal cells and tends to grow rapidly.] ‘I couldn’t really tell you how I reacted at first. Chris, my husband, said I just curled up and made a strange noise. I’m not sure. But sooner than you would think my practical brain kicked in and tests and scans were arranged. I was given a date for my operation, a lumpectomy and sentinel lymph node biopsy (where they check to see if the cancer has spread into the lymph nodes) and we discussed what treatment I would have afterwards, which turned out to be eight sessions of chemotherapy and 33 sessions of radiotherapy, it was quite daunting. Everything happened really quickly and I felt quite overwhelmed, the timing was bizarre, it was Breast Cancer Awareness month and both my and my daughter Poppi’s birthdays.’ Family is everything in Claire and Chris’ Bunbury household – that is evident as soon as I am welcomed into their home and meet their
children Poppi (15) and Alfie (12) and dog. ‘Chris and the children have been amazing. When I started my first round of chemo (a week before Alfie’s birthday) we knew I would lose my hair. I just wanted to cling onto my eyelashes and eyebrows as long as I could – they went very thin but stayed put! First my hair went really fine and started falling out – Chris said that if I shook my head I was like a Christmas tree shedding its needles! So, shortly after my second round of chemo we got the clippers out and shaved my head together, as a family. It was very emotional but we managed to laugh through the tears. Fortunately it was winter so I could get away with some great hats! ‘Family, friends and people locally were amazing. One friend asked, ‘what can I do? I know, I’ll organise a food rota’ so that in the days after I’d had my chemo I knew the children would have a lovely tea after school. They loved guessing who would be bringing it and what it would be. I was so grateful that those were their thoughts at that time and not how poorly I was. The house looked like a florists or a bakery. ‘I think it’s also important to acknowledge those friends and family who didn’t know what to do. It’s ok to not know how to handle things, to feel how you feel and you shouldn’t feel regret and guilt. I know it’s difficult as I’ve had other friends who have been touched by cancer and not survived and I’ve felt guilty. Why am I still here when they’re not? It’s ok to ask those things but not to dwell on them.’ Claire trained as a Holistic Therapist and Reiki Healer, but no longer practices; she now works for a Financial Adviser, however, her spiritualism has supported her drive to beat cancer and be there for her family. ‘I was very lucky to have some hypnotherapy sessions with a very good friend of mine throughout my treatment. This helped enormously. I also practiced Buddhist meditation techniques when I had finished my treatment and was feeling
right: claire and her family. image courtesy of Johanna Steward Photography
84
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature
lost, it really helped me keep as strong as I could mentally. Facebook was a real lifeline; I was able to keep in touch with everyone, many of whom didn’t know what I was going through or how poorly I felt, it gave me a bit of normality. ‘My breast care nurses are amazing. I knew that I could call them anytime with any questions. I found after I’d been through the treatment the hardest time – when you’re ‘ok’ but you’ve lost the routine of appointments and sessions, it’s easy to feel a bit lost, like you’ve lost your safety net.’ One of the things that Claire is passionate about is understanding why. ‘When I do things I do them 100 per cent. So one of the key things for me to understand was where the cancer came from, not always the easiest question to answer! I worked with a genetics counsellor to create a genetic family tree. My second cousin passed away due to cancer, whilst I was going through my treatment, she was so young and I was sure there was something there to link us, however my counsellor believed it was a coincidence and that her bloodline was too far removed from mine to investigate further, saying that if anything else
came to light to give her a call. ‘Last year, I discovered that my sister, who I hadn’t seen for over 20 years, had also been diagnosed with breast cancer at a young age. I immediately contacted my genetics counsellor and she agreed to run the tests. Three months later I had the call to tell me that I had a deletion in my BRCA1 gene – which means I am at a higher risk of developing cancer because the cells’ ability to heal themselves is impaired. There’s a lot we don’t know about cancer, science is still investigating, so the visit to Dr Shore’s laboratories was quite overwhelming. Due to the links of BRCA1 between breast and ovarian cancer, Claire is undergoing risk-reducing surgery; she has just had an operation to remove her ovaries and will soon undergo a double mastectomy. ‘I didn’t want to put my family through anything more. This surgery reduces my risk by 95 per cent, which means I know I’m doing everything I can. ‘It’s a journey no one wants to make but no matter how bad you feel, you can make it through.’
‘It’s easy to feel a bit lost, like you’ve lost your safety net!’
85
Infiniti Q50 Available from
£289*
+ VAT per month
FOLLOW THAT INSTINCT
You feel the pull the moment you see its curves. But when you get behind the wheel, instinct really takes over. Driving you to experience the 170 PS direct injection turbo-charged Diesel or the 211 PS 2.0l turbo-charged Petrol engine. Forcing you to feel the visceral pleasure of world-first Direct Adaptive Steering. It’s time to follow your heart and give in to your instinct. Book your test drive now at infiniti-instinct.co.uk
INFINITI CENTRE STOCKPORT, Bailey Road, Stockport SK1 2BT. 0844 858 2546 Official fuel economy figures for the Infiniti Q50 range in mpg (l/100 km): urban 29.4 to 50.4 (9.6 to 5.6), extra urban 53.3 to 76.3 (5.3 to 3.7), combined 41.5 to 64.2 (6.8 to 4.4). CO2 emission: 159 to 114 g/km. Official EU Test Figures. For comparison purposes only. Real world figures may differ. Model shown: Infiniti Q50 Sport 2.2d 6MT with optional metallic paint and electric glass sunroof at OTR price £34,260. BUSINESS USERS ONLY. Example based on 3 rentals in advance followed by 35 monthly repayments, 10,000 miles per annum on a non-maintained (you are responsible for all maintenance and servicing costs) contract with non-metallic paint. Finance provided by Infiniti Financial Services Limited, PO Box 149, Watford WD17 1FJ. Subject to status. Terms and conditions apply. Guarantees and indemnities may be required. You must be 18 or over and a UK resident (excluding Isle of Man and Channel Islands) to apply. At the end of the contract you will not own the vehicle. Further charges may apply subject to mileage and condition at end of contract. Visit your local dealer for full details. Offers valid on eligible vehicles ordered before 30 September 2014. Subject to availability. Private customer offers are also available. Infiniti Europe, Zone d’Activités La Pièce 12, 1180 Rolle, Switzerland.
*
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Fashion
Making Tracks
B
arbour and Land Rover; two enduring emblems of all that is understated style, practicality and rural panache. With this in mind, it seems almost shocking that this August marked the first time these two time-honoured brands have collaborated – but better late than never. The result is a collaboratively designed and developed stand-out range of men’s and women’s apparel that places prime importance on
technical touches, rugged construction and a touch of country inspired luxury. The women’s range is lovely, but for us it’s the men’s which really steals the show. Including everything from accessories and luggage to jackets, quilted gilets and a range of wax and wool knits, we love the Barbour for Land Rover Frontier Jacket (RRP £399) with its sturdy, no-nonsense design and subtle stylish touches. (barbour.com, landrover.co.uk)
87
The big hitter Henry Hopwood-Phillips meets one of golf’s more colourful characters, Ryder Cup captain and a man with more drive than a two iron, Mr Paul McGinley
© Mitch Gunn
88
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature
W
atford, as even its most zealous fan would admit, is not known for its glamour. So I am apprehensive when I get the call to go and meet Paul McGinley, one of golf’s superstars at a hotel there. As the taxi pulls into The Grove, however, I realise I’m not at any normal M25-straddling lodge. This is a 300 acre plot with a 7,000 yard championship golf course designed by one of the greatest coursedesigners, Kyle Philips. It’s a world-class golfers’ resort, drawing the biggest and best players into its orbit. One of whom is McGinley, a man who at so many points in his life might never have picked up his clubs professionally. ‘Yes, my background is more business than golf’ he reminds me. ‘I worked for the European Commission for six months and an investment company in Dublin for another six’. He also has a diploma in marketing and an international business degree. The assumption that people at the top of the game are child prodigies still lingers in most areas of achievement, and I express surprise that he wasn’t born immediately beating a path towards the irons. ‘Not at all, quite the opposite in fact. I used to play Gaelic football professionally until I broke my kneecap’, he explains. ‘I was at a US university doing an international business degree on a golf scholarship, thinking I’d kill two birds with one stone: either my golf wouldn’t improve and I’d have qualifications or it would and I’d go somewhere’ Paul explains. But I still can’t shrug the fact that the European Ryder Cup captain is talking as if he once might not have been good enough to go pro. Seizing on this, I wonder what Paul would have told himself if he could revisit his 22 year-old self at this crucial stage of his golfing career. There is a long pause. ‘I’d tell myself to have a bit more clarity and stubbornness. I’ve learned that whether it is in sport or business, you have to focus. It’s like climbing a tree, many of us climb a little and then get distracted by branches and tangents.’ I try and push him away from the metaphor. ‘I’d tell myself you are not perfect but you’ve got your own DNA, you’ve got to fulfil your potential, your capacity; don’t go trying to be something you’re not.’
This is interesting territory. I probe him on why this advice might have been useful to the young McGinley. ‘I guess too many times I assumed there were recipe books for success and pushed myself into the moulds of others.’ Paul’s eyes light up. ‘Bottom line is I’m five foot seven so I’m never going to be a power-hitter. Spend energy on your strengths, not trying to be a textbook player.’ 2001 was McGinley’s first Ryder Cup. He’s come a long way since. I undiplomatically suggest he’s coming to the end of his career. Fortunately he laughs. ‘Yes I’m 47; I’ll probably play until I’m 52. ‘Don’t worry though; there are plenty of irons in the fire.’ He reassures me, listing just a few of his activities: TV punditry, companies’ directorships, motivational speeches for some of the companies that have sponsored him from the beginning of his career (Investec, Allianz and Adidas Tailored) and the establishment of several golf schools internationally. He is very popular in the business world and it’s not hard to see why. There is a hard edge to Paul but it’s buttered with charm. When he’s giving his speeches he’s not there suffering, waiting to clamber into the golf buggy, he’s there to learn. The golfer launches into a description of an awards ceremony for entrepreneurs he’s just returned from. ‘It was in Morocco, and I thought we would be dealing with young guys with big dreams. Instead, the average turnover of the 52 entrants was £700 million.’ I ask for an example of how he’s helped a firm before. ‘Often in m ergers and acquisitions there are companies from different cultures trying to hit on the correct modus operandi. This can be difficult; in fact it often requires Ban Ki-moon skills. I impart some of the experience I’ve had leading the European Cup team, getting people from all over the place to gel.’ But Paul wants to get things back to basics. ‘It is ultimately about having the fire in your belly. That is where everything starts. If you don’t, life is tough.’ I couldn’t agree more. Paul McGinley is an Ambassador for Investec, the specialist bank and asset manager. (investec.co.uk)
89
Motoring news words: Iain Warde
The fastest production Range Rover in the world
O
ver the past few weeks we have heard a lot about the new Range Rover, with the petrolheads at Land Rover working on the world’s fastest one yet. It’s called the Range Rover SVR. How fast I hear you cry? Well a small 542bhp, 502lb ft and 162mph fast answers that question. As is customary, Land Rover has chucked their latest edition around the Nürburgring in eight minutes and 14 seconds, making it faster than the original Honda NSX and as quick as a Mercedes C63 AMG. At the heart of the SVR is a tuned version of the 5.0-litre supercharged V8 from the standard Range Rover Sport, which drives all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic gearbox. Then there’s uprated suspension and 90
firmer bushings and recalibrated torque vectoring. Shift times are reduced by a whopping 50 per cent, and the nice throttle blipping noise comes courtesy of a two-stage active exhaust. The visual tweaks are quite easy to see and not just cosmetic either: the deeper front bumper and larger air intakes improve cooling; there’s a more prominent rear bumper and new diffuser, both designed to boost aerodynamic efficiency. The inside isn’t too shabby either with bespoke sport seats to differentiate from the standard Range Rover Sport. At £93,450, it’s £12,000 more than a standard V8, but we think worth it. First deliveries are expected in the first three months of 2015. £93,450 (landrover.co.uk)
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Motoring
For Sale: Range Rover 001 The Range Rover with chassis number 001 is estimated to sell for around £140,000 when it goes under the hammer at The Salon Privé this month. 001 was built between 24 November and 17 December 1969, almost six months before the official launch date and bought by Michael Forlong, who was also responsible for creating two promotional films about the car. Due to registration alterations and a re-spray, 001 was lost for a number of years. Having passed form owner to owner, the model was ‘rediscovered’ by its current owner in the 1990s and has undergone six years of restoration. Despite its history, the specimen is still in possession of its original engine, a 3.5-litre Rover V8, gearbox, axles, chassis and aluminium bonnet. A rare piece of British history. (salonprivelondon.com)
A Bugatti challenger? The Bugatti Veyron Super Sport - the world’s fastest production car - hit 269.86mph during its Guinness Book of Records run, and now Hennessy’s Venom has managed 270.49mph. The original record still stands, but the Texans are fighting back with the brand new Venom F5, said to reach 290mph. We’ll have to wait until next year to find out if it’s officially faster than a Veyron, but you can put your name on the list for a mere £712,000. Speed ain’t cheap! (venomgt.com/venom-f5)
‘There are two things no man will admit he cannot do well: drive and make love’
Restoration heaven UK Barn Finds is a website/Facebook group which I stumbled upon not too long ago. Across the UK there are thousands of barns, farms and lock-ups each hiding inside the most magnificent cars you could ever imagine. Of course they need restoring but with enough time spent on a project you could be netting yourself a tidy sum. Cars are posted on eBay daily ranging from beautiful racers from the 1930s, more adventurous classic Series 1 Land Rover Station Wagons and the strangest I have found so far: a Bedford J type fire engine! So if you do ever find yourself with a bit of spare time and the wife will let you use some of your valuable space in the garage for a restoration project then I urge you to visit and pick up a small bit of history. (facebook.com/ukbarnfinds)
Stirling Moss
91
The
NUMBERS
Is it a coupé, a hatchback or even a saloon? Matthew Carter gets confused by BMW’s 4-series Gran Coupé
92
Game
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Motoring
N
ow, pay attention at the back, because this next bit is complicated. The car you see here is a new, five-door hatchback with a sloping coupé-like roofline. It joins a line-up that embraces a four-door saloon, five-door estate, two-door coupé and a convertible. So far so good, but here’s the tricky bit: the range also includes another five-door hatchback with a sloping coupé-like roofline… but that one is, um, a little taller. Depending on your viewpoint, this is either a brilliant ploy to produce a range of cars with something for everyone, or niche marketing gone mad. To be honest, I’m not sure which is the correct answer. BMW, of course, plumps for the former. The company will even try to tell you that these are two model ranges, not one. But in doing so, BMW is merely playing a numbers game: the slightly more conventional saloon, estate and taller ‘coup-back’ are badged as 3-series, while the sportier coupé, convertible and this ‘coup-back’ have been christened the 4-series. This, then, is the 4-series Gran Coupé, a car that’s closely related to the 3-series Gran Turismo hatchback… but which, according to BMW, is aimed at a totally different buyer. Perhaps it is. To my eyes, the admittedly roomy but ungainly Gran Turismo is more hunchback than hatchback, while the latest 4-series is a happier-looking confection that really does have the elegance of a coupé but the practicality of a saloon: the best of both worlds, in effect. It is the same length and width as the handsome 4-series Coupé (the two-door, remember?), but squeezes in a pair of rear doors and a roofline that’s 23mm taller at the rear. That’s less than an inch extra, yet headroom in the rear is not Car: BMW 420d compromised unless you xDrive SE Gran Coupé are six foot plus: it Price: £32,515 certainly feels roomier Engine: than the coupé. Front-mounted, 1,997cc, 4-cyl diesel The boot, too, is Power: 184hp sizeable and practical, Performance: 145mph, 0-60mph in 7.6 secs Drive: Four-wheel drive, six-speed manual
93
Motoring | The CHESHIRE Magazine
with a large tailgate and folding rear seats to increase luggage space. In total volume terms it’s not far short of the 3-series estate. So it’s good-looking and practical… and the news gets better when you take to the road. After all, it wears a BMW badge on its nose and that means you just know that dynamically it will more than pass muster. The ride is firm but never unpleasant, the gear change positive and the steering natural and precise. Best of all, the chassis underlines the sporting nature of the car – inherently stable and secure, it feels eager in a way that the Gran Coupé’s most obvious rival, the Audi A5 Sportback, doesn’t. It’s a classic demonstration of how rear-wheel drive (BMW) is livelier than a stodgy front-wheel drive set-up (Audi). And it even applies when the cars have four-wheel drive. The rear bias of the BMW’s xDrive layout means it is much more fun than the Audi’s quattro set-up. Eventually there will be seven engines to choose from, two- or xDrive- four-wheel drive versions and four trim levels, starting with SE and running through Sport, Luxury and M Sport. The likely best-seller, though, will be the 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel of the 420d, driven here in xDrive form. Thanks to the extra weight of its body and four-wheel drive system, the 420d Gran Coupé isn’t quite as quick as the identically-engined 320d saloon, but it’s still no slouch with strong performance (7.6 secs to 62mph) and unreal economy and emissions: mpg in the mid-60s on
94
a run and a CO2 output of just 129g/km. These things are important to the company car market where most of the Gran Coupés will be sold. It’s well-priced and well-equipped, too. Despite the extra doors and space, the Grand Coupé is identically priced to the 4-series Coupé, which means it is around £3,000 more than a comparable 3-series saloon. The entry level SE version has heated leather seats, parking sensors front and rear, dual-zone air conditioning, a DAB radio and a 6.5-inch colour screen. All versions also have an electrically-powered tailgate as standard. Sport versions add larger wheels and some cosmetic changes, while Luxury models get navigation and other goodies for an additional £2,500. The top spec M Sport (an extra £3,000) gets a body kit, M Sport suspension and a whole host of ‘sporty accents’ not all of which you’ll want. The best bet? Probably an SE model with a few bits of kit from the options list – the BMW Professional media package with navigation (£1,890) is a must, while £825 for the head-up display projecting speed and navigation directions onto the screen is money well-spent. But the real question is whether the Gran Coupé is worth three grand more than the 3-series saloon. Dynamically the saloon is a little sharper, but as an overall package the Gran Coupé is the more desirable. Maybe I’ve answered my question. Yes this is niche marketing… but it really does seem to have created a range with something for everyone.
Photo Michel Gibert. Photograph used as a reference only. With thanks to: TASCHEN, Frédéric Nakache.
l’art de vivre by roche bobois
éditionspéciale £4,850* reduced from £6,010
Urban modular corner sofa, designed by Sacha Lakic. * £4,850 reduced from £6,010 until 30/11/2014. L.325/220 x H.85 x D.105/162cm. Upholstered in fabrics from the Urban collection. Cotton and foam-filled dimple-stitched seat cushion. Beech base with wenge finish. Entirely removable slipcovers. Other dimensions, straight sofa, armchair and ottoman also available. Séance armchairs, designed by Sacha Lakic, Mister X cocktail table, designed by Aleksandr Mukomelov. European manufacture. MANCHESTER MM2 Building 121-125 Great Ancoats Street, M4 5AG, Tel: 0161 236 1517 Also in CHELSEA – HAMPSTEAD – HARRODS – WANDSWORTH – WALTON-ON-THAMES
Complimentary 3D Interior Design Service
See www.roche-bobois.com for collections, news and catalogues
Take peace of mind from giving your family the
brightest start to their future
No matter what age, society these days tends to look after each generation, particularly from a family viewpoint. Equity Release Supermarket has evidenced a considerable increase in the older generation seeking to help not just their children, but also the next generation down. Here we explain how this ‘silversurfer’ generation have provided inter-generational gifting by using the equity in their property.
Popularity UK homeowners over age 55 are taking advantage of recent house price increases by releasing equity from their property to improve their own home or even assist family members. In particular, first time buyers or young families needing to upsize their home have benefitted from a release of equity gifted by their parents. Qualification rules Should you have little or no mortgage and be over the age of 55 you could consider releasing a percentage of your property value to spend as you wish. The maximum amount raised depends upon the scheme advised, your age, property value and now even your health. Online equity release calculators are available to ascertain the maximum release possible based on your circumstances. Flexible Lifetime Mortgages The common misconception is that equity release is for SKIers (Spending the Kids Inheritance), however equity release plans today also include provision for monthly or variable
repayment methods. Therefore, people with good disposable incomes can now manage their future balance by repaying just the interest, thus maintaining a level balance. Alternatively, lifetime mortgage plans from the likes of Aviva can now also accept ad-hoc repayments of up to 10%pa of the original amount borrowed with no penalty. Effectively, making this kind of annual repayment could mean the whole scheme being repaid similar to a conventional capital and interest mortgage. Inter-generational gifting Q&A’s Q. Do you have loved ones who need helping onto the property ladder to purchase their first house? A. Releasing equity from your property and providing them with a deposit would make it easier for them to obtain a mortgage to buy their first home. The bigger the deposit, the lower the interest rate obtained, thus saving on their monthly payments. Q. Have your children recently had a new addition to the family thus needing a larger property?
A. By taking a release of equity from your home and gifting them a lump sum now, it provides an early inheritance that would enable them to either move to a bigger property, or even extend their existing home. Parental peace of mind As a parent myself, I understand the satisfaction of helping your children overcome life’s many hurdles. In particular, knowing your children have climbed onto the property ladder provides the peace of mind in knowing you have assisted them make the biggest financial decision of their life. Whole of market advice Being such an important decision, independent equity release advice should always be obtained. With many types of schemes, rates and offers available, help is on hand from a local team of equity release specialists based in Birchwood, Cheshire. All our advisers are fully qualified and regulated by the FCA, with Equity Release Supermarket being members of the Equity Release Council which helps set the standards and provides a code of conduct for the industry.
To benefit from a free no obligation initial consultation, please call 0800 783 9652 or email mark@equityreleasesupermarket.co.uk for further details on our range of services. www.equityreleasesupermarket.co.uk These are lifetime mortgages and home reversion plans. To understand their features and risks, ask for a personalised illustration. There will be a fee for mortgage advice. This will depend upon your circumstances, but we estimate that it will be ÂŁ895. Equity Release Supermarket Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. FCA registered no. 584063
Thunder road For motoring purists, Caterhams have always held their place as one of the fastest cars. We test out the new Seven 620R – the most powerful production Seven ever built W o r d s : R i c h a r d Y a rr o w
98
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Motoring
99
Motoring | The CHESHIRE Magazine
I
f you know anything about cars you will have heard of the Bugatti Veyron. Launched in 2005, it’s a supercar like no other. If you want acceleration, this is the beast for you; UK car magazine Evo tested it and recorded a 0-60mph time of just 2.8 seconds. Top Gear presenter Jeremy Clarkson said: ‘At a stroke the Veyron has rendered everything I’ve ever said about any other car obsolete. It’s rewritten the rule book, moved the goalposts.’ Bar a slightly more powerful version of the Veyron, the Super Sport, nothing is quicker off the line. Even for the super-rich, such performance doesn’t come cheap. A Bugatti Veyron roadster – the coupés have all gone – bought new today will set you back some £1.4 million. And yet you can buy something with exactly the same acceleration – 0-60mph in 2.8 seconds – for a fraction of that. You might be thinking Porsche, or perhaps an Audi or BMW, but you’re missing the point. The ability to move quickly comes down to a simple power-versus-weight calculation; the Bugatti tips the scales at 1,800kg so needs an 8.0-litre 1,000bhp quad-turbo engine to give it that burst of speed. For a car weighing just 545kg – as our challenger does – a 2.0-litre 310bhp petrol unit bought in from Ford will do the same job. Ladies and gents, your appreciation please for the Caterham Seven 620R, lightning quick and yours for less than £50,000. If you can afford the Veyron, one of these is ‘back of the sofa’ change. Caterham is in the public eye today for its F1
involvement, first appearing on the grid in the 2012 season as a rebadged version of Team Lotus. But for drivers of a certain age, Caterham is all about the Seven. This iconic sports car started life in the late 1950s as the Series 1 Lotus Seven, a cheap and cheerful roadster. In 1973 Caterham Cars was merely a Lotus dealer, but when legendary Lotus boss Colin Chapman said he was axing the Seven, Caterham boss Graham Nearn believed there was still demand and bought the rights to carry on building it. The rest is history, and the Seven has remained in an identical format – tubular chassis, aluminium panels, front engine, rear-wheel drive, two seats – ever since. You can buy a new Caterham Seven for just £15,000, and around 500 people a year do. The company also supports a wide range of Seven-based motorsport, including the Academy for novices, Roadsport for those who have completed their first season, and three further championships depending on experience and budget. The motto has always been ‘accessible fun’ but for die-hard enthusiasts with money to spend, the company is always pushing the boundaries of what is possible to fit into the Seven’s tiny frame. And with the 620R, its engineers have taken that to a new extreme. This is the most powerful production Seven ever built, a 155mph supercharged monster that is not for the faint-hearted. After the car made its world debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed last year, Caterham F1 driver Kamui Kobayashi took it on track at the Silverstone circuit. In an interview afterwards he commented: ‘Normally, with a new car, it takes a few laps to understand it. With this car, after one corner, I understood it straight away. The power is awesome – I can’t believe you can drive this on the road, it is definitely the closest thing to a racing car.’ As well as producing more horsepower and torque than any previous incarnation of the Seven, the 620R also has several other new features. These include a unique gunmetal-finish
‘Turn the key, push the starter 100
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature
chassis, a nose cone that’s been redesigned to optimise air-flow and a race-developed engine cooling package. Suspension includes highperformance motorsport-derived dampers while the car sits on lightweight 13-inch alloy wheels fitted with track-inspired tyres. There’s not much in the way of extras, just basic instruments housed in a carbon fibre dashboard. They’re mostly toggle switches, and include the indicator – flick it left or right, but don’t forget to move it back to the centre because it doesn’t go there on its own. There’s no audio system or even a heater. The most obvious thing about the strippedout cockpit is the lack of a windscreen. You simply get a small plastic deflector to encourage air up and over you; it means a full-face helmet is a good idea. There are no doors – you simply clamber over the top and slide into the figurehugging carbon fibre race seats. Turn the key, push the starter button and the engine roars into life. Clip yourself into the four-point race harness and you’re ready for the off. So far, so good. But it’s at this point the Seven’s idiosyncrasies – let’s call them the ‘Caterham
Caveats’ – become part of the equation. You see, this car is not for everyone. It really helps if you’re not too tall and you definitely need to be of slim build. Having small feet is also an advantage because the pedals are very close together. I tick one of those boxes, but at 6ft 4ins and with size 12 shoes I’m not the ideal Seven driver. Sacrificing comfort, I headed off and the 620R’s immense acceleration was immediately obvious. I got nowhere near the 2.8 seconds sprint time – I think I was closer to double that number – but with other traffic around it was fast enough. Another characteristic of the 620R is the actual driving experience, which isn’t to everyone’s taste. Best described as hardcore, the ride is very firm and you feel every bump in the road. Shifting up and down the sequential gearbox is crude and noisy, and being so low to the road can be disconcerting. Most lorry wheel hubs are higher than you are. On the upside, grip is genuinely staggering, steering is fabulously direct and you will certainly attract attention. Driving a Caterham is like no other experience in motoring, and the 620R sets a new benchmark for the brand.
button and the engine roars into life’ 101
THE SMARTEST PHONE YET?
F
inally the wraps have come off Samsung’s latest smartphone, the Galaxy Alpha. Featuring a sophisticated design and a solid finish, could this be the best Samsung smartphone yet? ‘The Galaxy Alpha was built and designed based on the specific desires of the consumer market,’ says JK Shin, CEO and Head of IT & Mobile Communication at Samsung Electronics. ‘With an entirely new appearance, the Galaxy Alpha focuses on both beauty and functionality combining a stunning metal frame and slim, lightweight design with the same powerful hardware and features users expect from a flagship Galaxy mobile device.’ Despite its slim and light design, the Galaxy Alpha provides users with the same powerful hardware and features that most Samsung smartphone users have grown accustomed to. Equipped with a brilliant 4.7-inch HD Super AMOLED display, as well as an
advanced camera and real-time HDR it offers an unrivalled viewing and photo experience. The Galaxy Alpha also includes Ultra-Power Saving Mode, S Health, Finger Print Scanner, Private Mode and connectivity with the latest Samsung Gear wearables. It can also shoot UHD 4K video, (3840 x 2160), at 30 frames a second, though you won’t be able to make use of such enormous pixel count on the Alpha screen, mind. The Galaxy Alpha will be available at the beginning of September. At launch, it will be available in Charcoal Black, Dazzling White, Frosted Gold, Sleek Silver, and Scuba Blue. The price point is anyone’s guess but we are thinking around the £500 mark which should put it in direct competition with the yet to be released iPhone 6. £500-£550 (samsung.com)
Technology central What’s hot in the world of gadgets, games and geekery words: Iain Warde
TV ROUND UP With some great looking TVs available now, we pick the best for style and substance #1 SAMSUNG SMART 3D 4k Ultra HD 78” Curved LED TV Delivering on all its promises, the natural curve of this is optimised for the viewing distance in your living room, which means that it provides a wider field of view and more natural viewing angles, drawing you into whatever’s happening on screen. SAMSUNG UE78HU8500, £6,499 (pcworld.co.uk)
102
1
2
#2 SONY BRAVIA 49” Smart 3D 4k Ultra HD LED TV This Sony Bravia offers next-level picture quality, sophisticated sound and image processing technology and an impressive range of online features to take your entertainment experience up a gear. SONY BRAVIA KD49X8505BBU, £1,399 (pcworld.co.uk)
The The cheshire cheshire Magazine Magazine | Technology | Lifestyle
THE GAME
THE APP
Naruto Shippuden Ultimate Ninja Storm Revolution The next game in the highly acclaimed animé series is available from 16 September and all PC fans will be very pleased to hear that you can pre-order this on steam (steampowered.com) right now. The latest Naruto game will feature over 100 characters, as well as nearly an hour of new animé footage plus events from across all the films and cartoons. £39.99 (amazon.co.uk)
Cura TV Cura TV is a speciality food and drink marketplace where you can explore unique products, get the stories behind them and order simply and securely, all from your mobile. £free iTunes only
‘Let’s go invent tomorrow instead of worrying about what happened yesterday’ – Steve Jobs
3 #3 Bang and Olufsen BeoVision Avant As you’d expect from the Danish company, the BeoVision Avant 4K TV is packed with tech and rather beautiful to behold. When turned on the stand swivels to face one of three pre-determined viewing positions. Some party piece. £5,990 (bang-olufsen.com/wilmslow)
#4 LG LED 4K Ultra HD 3D Smart TV, 49” with Freeview HD This TV brings all the detail of 4K Ultra HD to your living room. It comes loaded with Smart features to keep you entertained and with a superior 100Hz frame rate, fast moving action like sports and gaming come into their own. LG 49UB850V, £1,199 (johnlewis.com)
4
5
#5 Sony Bravia LED HD 1080p 3D Smart Wedge TV With a Full HD screen and advanced Dynamic Range technology, the innovative wedge shape isn’t just for show. Not only does it save on space, it also enhances the sound output thanks to the placement of a unique long duct speaker. Sony Bravia KDL55W955, £1,449 (johnlewis.com)
103
Travel news This month we bring you personalised Room Shopping packages, a brand new addition to the Raffles family, a mountain-top hotel and some truly fashionable dining
Lagerfeld's Macau metropolis
© vipflash
Following his supermarket-styled show this season – complete with Chanel-branded groceries – it appears Karl Lagerfeld is building on his creative visions once more. Opening in 2017, the designer has collaborated with a Macau casino operator in the creation of his first hotel. The 20-storey high complex will feature a number of Michelinstarred restaurants, a themed shopping centre and more than 270 hotel rooms and suites, according to SJM. Go hard or go home, eh Karl? (sjmholdings.com)
Window Shopping Teaming up with luxury online boutique platform 9streetsonline, the Dylan Amsterdam Hotel is taking room service to a whole new level with its personalised Room Shopping package. Via interactive screens, guests can shop for everything they need without having to leave the comfort of their room, from cocktail dresses to favourite beauty products, and items are guaranteed to be delivered within the hour. (dylanamsterdam.com)
104
Turkish Delight Explore the hustle and bustle of Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar as the city welcomes Raffles Istanbul. The new establishment overlooking the Bosphorus, the Princess Islands and the historic peninsula is set to be the “new face of Istanbul”, located in the heart of the Zorlu Center, a new hub for fashion, food and the arts. The sleek and timeless interior incorporates specially commissioned works by local artists and the hotel has its own Art Concierge to guide guests through the city’s fascinating art scene. For those of you who are more interested in opening your purses than perusing artworks, Raffles Istanbul, ideally situated amongst designer shops and one-of-a-kind boutiques, also offers guests a personalised shopping and styling service. (Accepting reservations from 1 September; raffles.com)
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Travel
cookery school
Sky High Absorb the tranquillity of the Indian Ocean’s southern coastline at Sri Lanka’s newest hotel, Cape Weligama. Perched on a mountain top, the resort consists of a string of villas and suites within stoneencased Watts (gardens) and Walauwas (mansions), each with a spectacular panoramic view of the sunset and the ocean depths below. For the avid traveller, Cape Weligama is ripe with variety, offering a balance between relaxation and adventure. Whether you prefer star-gazing from a crescentshaped infinity moon pool or snorkelling in the aquamarine ocean, the luxury resort encompasses all. (capeweligama.com)
‘The world is a book and he who doesn’t travel only reads one page’ – St. Augustine Club Cavalli Fashion designer Roberto Cavalli has created his own Italian haven in the exclusive Ibiza Marina with the opening of his open-air restaurant. The new hotspot for celebrities and fashionistas, Cavalli Ibiza Restaurant & Lounge merges fashion, food and design in the hedonistic setting of the Mediterranean island. Lounge in the tropical garden amid animal print cushions and floral-themed tablecloths courtesy of the Roberto Cavalli Home collection and indulge in a selection of traditional Italian dishes with a Tuscan infusion, complemented by Tenuta Degli Dei red wine; a concoction brewed in the Cavalli family’s Tuscan winery. Branded vodka-based cocktails are also a must-have for all-night party goers. (ibiza.cavalliclub.com)
Long haul Vs short haul
Short haul Flash in the Pan
Famed Italian restaurant Quattro Passi Nerano, situated on the Amalfi Coast, is holding cookery classes taught by the chef of the Michelin-starred restaurant. Opt for a quick-fix two-hour slot with lunch included or go all out with a two-night package incorporating a market tour, wine tasting and a Chef’s Table for dinner. (ristorantequattropassi.com)
Long haul A Thai Treat
It’s no secret that we’re fans of the glorious Mandarin Hotel empire, with their hotels gradually dominating our bucket list of holiday destinations. During a visit to the Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, learn the art of preparing fine Thai cuisine. Participants will create delicious local delicacies such as sweet and sour fish soup with ginger and sticky rice dumplings. (mandarinoriental.com)
105
106
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature
To the
Manor Born It is one thing to visit a stately home, it is quite another to stay behind out of hours and make one your temporary home. Louisa Castle gets a taste for being the lady of the manor at Weston Park in Shropshire
W
Weston Park, South Side
e enjoy quite a few stately homes on our doorstep, learning about the history as we stroll around the homes or just enjoying the outdoor spaces which surround them. Weston Park has all that to offer but also offers the opportunity to stay in one of the 28 period bedrooms, dine in the room which housed dinner parties with Disraeli, relax beneath paintings by Stubbs and live in the house once the ropes and guidebooks have been put away for the evening. Available to hire out completely for business or pleasure, Weston also offers dine and stay experiences and this is what allowed my husband and I to test drive being Lord and Lady of the Manor for a weekend. Arriving on a glorious Friday afternoon along the winding driveway it is an easy thing to drift to Austen-esque scenes of flowing gowns and Mr Darcy. And as you pull up to the main entrance the scenes play out further, as Graeme, the head butler whisks away our luggage and escorts us to the terrace for fresh lemonade with the rest of the guests. The House is open to the public in season and there’s a team of volunteers who have a wealth of information to share if you choose to take a tour of the house. It may not be for everyone but the stories and connections are amazing. The collection boasts paintings from Stubbs and Van Eyck, furniture from Chippendale and a breath-taking set of very rare French Gobelin tapestries, not to mention a treasury which includes the Stem Cup, fashioned from Charles II’s Great Seal of England. Whether you’re an art aficionado or typically dragged around a gallery we would recommend a tour. 107
As the house closed it was time for Afternoon Tea in the Orangery. For those of you who are Heston Blumenthal fans, you will recognise the room from his last series, there are no edible plates though. Head Chef, Guy Day, however has put his own interpretation on the traditional with jasmine tea custards and black forest gateau cupcakes to accompany the traditional cucumber sandwiches and scones. With full stomachs we retire to our room for a quick change and chance to explore the formal gardens. We stayed in the Disraeli Room with views across the Capability Brown parkland through the huge shutter framed windows. The rooms are beautifully decorated in period style, spacious and comfortable but the star of the show remains the view. The 1,000 hectare estate is managed by head gardener, Martin Gee, whose family has lived at Weston since 1803. The formal gardens seamlessly fuse into the landscaped parkland and hunting lodge beyond in one direction and to Temple Woods to the other, a rare example of Capability Brown Pleasure Grounds, which features the Temple of Diana, built in the 1770s as a place to entertain guests and take tea. After a good explore, there is just enough time to change for dinner and be ready for drinks in the marble columned reception rooms. When dinner is called the very dining table behind the ropes has been transformed with candles, flowers and crested crockery. Prepared by Guy and his brigade of chefs and preferentially utilising local produce our five-course summer dining experience is presented. We begin with pan-fried medallions of monkfish, Shropshire asparagus and pea ravioli
perfectly accompanied by a Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc and followed by a cleansing sorbet of exotic fruit. The main course is a tender loin of lamb, niçoise garni, roasted garlic pomme purée, black olive tapenade and rosemary jus complemented by a delightful Fleurie. The cheese course consisted of Mr Moydens Wrekin Blue, candied celery (surprisingly tasty) and pecan shortbread with a robust St Emilion. A white chocolate and strawberry mousse with strawberry ripple ice cream concluded our dinner, a Muscat to match and it was time to retire to the library for coffee and petit fours. Whilst some establishments offering fine dining feel that it is acceptable to offer the smallest of portions this is most certainly not the case here. The portions are not over-facing at each course but by dessert it is difficult to think how you could eat anything else (that also goes for my husband, who has been affectionately termed a human dustbin in the past). The service offered by Graeme and his team is friendly, attentive but not overbearing. However, as I take in my surroundings between courses I cannot get away from the fact that I feel like a naughty child who has crept in after hours, sitting here beneath the family oil paintings, cordoned off from the public during the day. Coffee and petit fours is taken in the library, lined with dark wood, leather-bound volumes and secret doorways. You can imagine the gentlemen’s tales these walls could share. Now the early hours of the morning it is time to retire, treading the trail of hundreds of years of history and memories as we go. Morning arrives and after a hearty English breakfast we are whisked off to the old stables for a masterclass with the Head Chef who treats
Left to right from the top: Heston’s Afternoon Tea; Strawberry Chiboust; Lady B bedroom; Italian Gardens Orangery; The Dining Room
108
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature
us to the recipes for his summer puddings and jasmine tea custard tarts from the previous day’s Afternoon Tea. It is a relaxed affair with hints and tips and obligatory tastings. The recipes will be very easily followed once home. As our stay at Weston draws to a close and the M6 beckons (it’s only an hour away) we discuss what a great concept it is that we have just experienced. My brain is now whirring with ideas of coming back and sharing it with friends who will love it – the Christmas Dine & Stay maybe with the family? Taking over the whole house for a celebration? Or just a day trip for the Christmas Food & Craft Fayre? The Autumn Dine & Stay is a Forage and Feast Weekend, 8-9 November 2014 (weston-park.com)
109
explore…
Santorini Santorini is the most individual and beautiful of the Greek Islands due to its blend of Venetian and Cycladic heritage. The azure of the Aegean Sea is the perfect backdrop for the pure white buildings scattered along the hilly coastline. Santorini’s other signature is fine wine, as its three vineyards produce some of the finest vino in the Mediterranean. A tour of the vineyards is an absolute must! Where to stay: The Grace Santorini comprises traditional white houses carved into the hillside with an amazing infinity pool offering scenic vistas out to the sea and Caldera. The boutique style of this hotel reflects the quirkiness of the island and this individualism is the reason the hotel is a hot property.
The Greek Islands
Rhodes Cobbled streets, live music and fine dining can all be found in the atmospheric Old Town in Rhodes. The town is the epicentre of this vibrant island, however the surroundings reward any visitor with panoramic views of the other Aegean and Greek Islands. Where to stay: The beautifully decorated Elite Suites by Amathus Beach offers stunning views through floor-to-ceiling windows and spacious accommodation that features private pools. Great for families and couples alike. Another option, along the coastline is the Sheraton Rhodes. Recently named in the ‘Top 10 Best Interior Design Hotels’ by Traveller magazine, it’s not difficult to see why.
Greece offers spectacular scenery, diverse dining and some of the best beaches. However, the real gems of this destination are the islands; each one offers a slightly different but equally enriching experience for the discerning traveller. Luxury travel expert Michael Davies runs through some favourite resorts Sheraton Rhodes Pansea Beach
Mykonos Mykonos is the style Mecca of the Aegean. The streets of Mykonos Town are lined with cafes, bars, art galleries and restaurants frequented by upmarket party revellers and culture vultures alike. With major brands such as Chanel, Burberry and Louis Vuitton here, Mykonos has not lost its Greek heritage and much of the architecture still oozes Cycladic features, especially in more traditional towns. It is the perfect mixture of modern and old.
Mykonos Grand Pool Sunset
Elite Suites Pool and Decking
110
The cheshire Magazine | Travel
Where to stay: Santa Marina’s recent renovation has made this already beautiful resort one of the most sought after residences. It is ideally situated on the southern tip, just a short walk from the cultural town of Ornos and ten minutes by cab to the livelier Mykonos Town. Another popular destination is the Mykonos Grand, a boutique resort with unique architecture and discreet, attentive service.
my SUITCASE E S S E N T I A L S
#1 Cat frame sunglasses, £225, Miu Miu (houseoffraser.co.uk)
Corfu
Santorini Grace Inifinity Pool
Corfu is another of the Greek Islands that has become a haven for luxury seekers in recent years. The Ferrari Members Club, for example, meets on the island. Corfu is the ultimate family resort as the island’s energetic feel is carried through in the number of family friendly activities available. Where to stay: The recently renovated and re-branded MarBella Corfu mirrors the island’s family feel with activities aimed at all ages. The kids’ club and crèche are provided by wellrespected Worldwide Kids Company, so you can be sure that the children are thoroughly entertained and well cared for whilst you slip off. The hotel also offers an excellent AllInclusive option which is a cut above the norm.
#2 Sun proetction compact, £32, Shiseido (houseoffraser.co.uk)
#3 Electric blue aura scarf, My Perfect T, £195 (my-perfect-t.com)
Skiathos
Skiathos Princess - Beach Dinner
Skiathos may be small, but it’s big on scenery and serenity. The rolling hills are painted with stunning greenery and offer intrepid hikers some of the best views in the Sporades. For a touch of glitz, head to Skiathos Town with its smart harbour, cocktail bars and chic boutiques, as well as pretty beaches. Where to stay: The Skiathos Princess is a trendy, relaxed resort lauding the art of relaxation in its lush setting on the glorious Aegean Sea coastline. Equally perfect for a honeymoon or family holiday this property offers a range of grown up activities and clubs for youngsters.
#4 Bug print playsuit, £55.30, Pied a Terre (houseoffraser.co..uk)
#5 Terracotta tinted self tanning gel, £35.50, Guerlain (houseoffraser.co.uk)
Michael Davies is a luxury travel consultant at Destinology, 47 – 49 Alderley Road, Wilmslow, SK9 1NZ (01625 88 55 88)
Santa Marina - Private Beach at Night
111
Travel | The CHESHIRE Magazine
Weekend away …The Baglioni Hotel, London Words: gemma knight
E
ven without the idyllic location overlooking Kensington Gardens (the western end of Hyde Park which is home to Kensington Palace) and surrounded by London’s most exclusive and elegant districts, this hotel would still give its luxury London brethren a run for their money. This is largely thanks to the staff, who strike an admirable balance between courteous efficiency and beaming affability – wonderfully welcoming, personal and absolutely impossible not to warm to; there is no stiff sense of formality here, while concierge Phil has what can only be described as a magical ability for procuring un-gettable tickets and reservations at the drop of a hat. Added to this is the stunning accommodation itself, a decadent assortment of elegant, Italian-style rooms which range in size from comfortable to colossal and boast some of the best views of the park we’ve seen. If you can tear yourself away from the plush furnishings and burgeoning breakfast buffets, there’s also a whole host of delights less than a ten minute stroll away begging to be explored. For the shopaholics amongst you, Knightsbridge and High Street Kensington’s cornucopia of designer boutiques (not to mention Harrods) will no doubt beckon, while culture vultures should head straight for South Kensington’s museums (the V&A,
Natural History Museum and Science Museum, all of which are free of charge). And if the weather’s nice, the hotel will even put together your very own picnic package; a deluxe hamper full of enough edible goodies to feed an army – quite possibly the highlight of our entire stay and an excellent excuse to spend an afternoon lounging in Hyde Park. The hotel does of course have an excellent Italian restaurant, though if you’re tempted to venture further afield our vote goes to the Michelin-starred Launceston Place around the corner, a flawless establishment serving a flamboyant and seasonally-inspired British menu created by Head Chef Tim Allen. The expert service, much like the Baglioni’s, is professional to a fault yet warm and personable, while the food is truly in a league of its own. Try the tasting menu with its seemingly endless parade of wine pairings – with such delights as hand-dived scallops and salt marsh lamb, you won’t be disappointed. And if, despite the various indulgences on offer, you still find yourself with a few hours to spare, it would be a crime not to spend them scoffing one of the Baglioni’s superb afternoon teas. Like the hotel itself, these are indulgent and luxurious – you’d be a fool to miss out on either. Baglioni Hotel London is available from £290 per night. (baglionihotels.com, launcestonplace-restaurant.co.uk)
‘Impossible not to warm to; there is no stiff sense of formality here’ 112
Europe Maldives Dubai Mauritius Thailand Caribbean USA
LUXURY GREECE FROM ÂŁ425 Discover an amazing destination where natural beauty, cultural sites and outstanding hospitality combine for a captivating experience. Let the travel experts at Destinology tailor-make your next holiday to Greece. Choose from luxurious hotels with superb early booking offers for 2015 and enjoy truly personalised service every step of the way. Images clockwise from top: Santorini Grace; Mykonos; MarBella Corfu; Elite Suites, Rhodes. Price is per person based on 2 sharing at 5* MarBella Corfu on Bed & Breakfast for 7 nights, travel 24 Apr - 9 May 15 incl. direct flights from Manchester. Price subject to availability. Booking conditions apply.
Destinology - Greece - Cheshire Magazine.indd 1
01625 88 55 88
www.destinology.co.uk/wilmslow 47 - 49 Alderley Road, Wilmslow, Cheshire, SK9 1NZ
8/27/2014 3:51:56 PM
Smalls for smalls Smalls, an adorable new kids’ clothing line, is providing beautiful everyday merino wool bodywear for children aged two to twelve. Pay a visit to the website to watch the Smalls brand’s fluffy sheep roaming free in the rugged Southern Alps of New Zealand and learn some silly (and not so silly) facts for children, while stocking up on luxurious and super-soft basics. (lovemysmalls.com)
Kids’ news The coolest little boots around, a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, gorgeous new kids’ lines and, of course, our inimitable (and fluffy) columnist Mr Hendrix goes on a health kick
Mum’s the word All hail Susie & Rose, the new go-to brand for all of your little girl’s dress-up demands. Combining Susie’s past experience working as a professional dressmaker over the last 50 years and Rose’s love of design and fashion, the British mother-and-daughter team has created a collection of limited-edition dresses and playsuits for party girls up to the age of eight. We especially love the Tartan Taffeta Dress with full skirt and oversized bow; a wonderful wee treat. For extra special occasions, bespoke commissions are also available. (susieandrose.com)
114
Fit for a princess Not every children’s clothing brand can claim a royal seal of approval. Then again, not every brand is subject to the creative vision of Princess Marie-Chantal of Greece. Established in 2001, Marie Chantal’s AW14 collection features frilly blouses and girly shirt dresses for princesses to be, while classic suits with soft cotton shirts have been created for their eligible princes. The garments are accompanied by an outerwear range, including wool pea coats, three-inone parkas and leather aviator jackets. For an even younger audience, the signature angel wing onesie in soft velour will keep newborns snug in the approaching chillier months: halo not included. (mariechantal.co.uk)
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars
Off to wonderland If you’re searching for a special day out with your little ones which really does leave all the competition behind, look no further than this year’s Mad Hatter’s Tea Party at London’s legendary Dorchester Hotel. Inspired by Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland, the tea includes performances by the English National Ballet School’s young dancers and appearances by The Mad Hatter, the March Hare, the Dormouse and Alice herself, not to mention a selection of Alice in Wonderland-inspired cakes such as a chocolate and strawberry handbag, a coffee Tonka top hat and a coconut lime playing card topping. An excellent excuse to venture through the looking glass if ever we heard one. 27 – 31 October at 1:45pm, 2:15pm, 4:15pm and at 4:45pm. The tea is priced at £55 per adult, including a glass of champagne, and at £30 for children (Ages 5-11) (dorchestercollection.com)
School of Rock These boots may well have been a staple of your own tween wardrobe: for decades they’ve been the epitome of practical cool and the footwear of choice for anyone who wanted to look different. They’re for punks, ‘inventors, mavericks, free-thinkers’, says the British brand. Now Dr Martens has teamed up with Bonpoint to create two exclusive pairs of its classic punk footwear in rather smaller sizes. Boys and girls can run amok in the patent leather high-tops or the equally sturdy burgundy lace-up shoes; they’ll grow out of them before they’re anywhere close to wearing them out, and they’ll look far too stylish to want to cause any trouble...probably. (bonpoint.com)
d MR HENDRIX e h s a e nl U
I
lost a fair few whiskers and a fur full of dignity this week trying to work alongside the office cat. Hounded out, I decide to put paw to paper in the garden enjoying the last dog days of summer. A fabulous summer filled with barbeques, lazy days and chasing bugs. Autumn and winter are fast approaching bringing with them hearty meals to combat the sharpness in the air. We all know we should drink more water throughout the day, maybe even walk that extra mile (I know it wouldn’t hurt me to forgo the carbs every now and then!). But, what we don’t need is to let vanity win over common sense by filling our cupboards with all the latest must-have lotions and potions to get us through our daily lives! Since I was a pup, Anji, my owner and I have both been enjoying coconut oil: it may be the latest craze right now for both humans and their four legged friends but coconut oil, known as the ‘Tree of Life’, has been a primary supplementary food source in Tropical regions for thousands of years thanks to its restorative qualities and innumerable uses. One tiny pot is now my go-to remedy, as it boosts my energy and metabolism and uses natural organic products that are environmentally friendly. There are lots of products out there, but Viridian is my pick of the litter. It smells and tastes delicious and when combed through my coat leaves it silky soft and super shiny. It can also ease skin conditions such as eczema, itchy skin and bug bites. Apart from its cosmetic and external qualities when ingested, coconut oil improves digestion and nutrient absorption. It is a highly effective brain food helping to keep both dogs and humans mentally agile. This little pot even whitens teeth and dare I say it reduces bad breath, and for those of us prone to putting on the odd extra pound or two, well, coconut oil can actually help in weight loss. This is because it consists of medium chain fatty acids, which the body does not store as fat, instead they are converted into energy that boosts your metabolism and in turn burns more calories. If only that meant limitless doggy treats! Love and Licks
Mr Hendrix (mrhendrix.com) (viridian-nutrition.com)
115
Domestic, childcare and private catering staff for your home and family. Housekeepers | Cleaners | Couples | Nannies | Nanny/Housekeepers Maternity Nurses | Chauffeurs | Drivers | Gardeners | Handypersons Butlers | Household Managers | Chefs | Cooks | Dinner Party Staff Permanent | Short Term | Seasonal | Live In | Daily In order to understand you and your household, we offer client visits as part of our bespoke recruitment process, which is tailored to the individual needs of each client. Greycoat Lumleys’ quality recruitment service is now available on your doorstep. With offices in London, Manchester and Edinburgh, we are ‘Setting the Standard in Recruitment’ across the whole of the UK.
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
The classroom With record results this exam season we take a look at the out-ofthe-classroom activities our local schools have also been excelling at words: LOUISA CASTLE
Spring in her step
Singing & Sightseeing King’s Foundation Choir singers have performed in some of Renaissance Italy’s most wonderful cathedrals this summer, on their seventh biennial tour in Tuscany. Nearly 60 young men and women aged 12 to 18 gave daily concerts in churches and cathedrals in the medieval cities of Montecatini, Pistoia and Florence, and even participated in a mass in Montecatini. They delighted their audiences with an eclectic repertoire of songs ranging from Parry’s stirring anthem I was Glad, to Latin motets and African, gospel, folk and popular songs. The tour followed their ‘King’s Sings Concert’ at the United Reformed Church in Macclesfield, raising £2,100 for the Macclesfield and District Live at Home Scheme, and for the provision of education for girls in the Dalit communities of India. (kingsmac.co.uk)
Hulme Hall Grammar School pupil Olivia Hickey (15), from Cheadle Hulme, is jumping for joy after taking gold in the British Gymnastics Trampolining Final, despite hot competition from some of England’s finest young athletes.
200 Mile charity trip A group of 18 pupils from The Queen’s School in Chester have cycled more than 200 miles from their school to Buckingham Palace to raise funds for the Teenage Cancer Trust. Headmistress, Sarah Clark led the group of girls and several staff on their epic five day trip, travelling on cycle paths, canal tow paths and roads, staying in village halls and other schools with overnight accommodation. The funds raised will go to the Teenage Cancer Trust and The Queen’s School Commemoration Bursary Appeal. (queens.cheshire.sch.uk)
Olivia won in the Double Mini Trampoline (DMT) Level 5 Women’s 15-16 round, representing the North West Regional Trampoline Squad in the finals and scoring an impressive 116.3. (hulmehallschool.org, @HulmeHallGS)
117
Family | The cheshire Magazine
W
Sally Petrie
Open
season As the Open Day season commences we speak to Sally Petrie, Assistant Head of Admissions at Cheadle Hulme School about what to expect
hen choosing a new school, taking a tour during a regular working day is a vital ingredient in any family’s decision-making process. If formal Open Days encourage schools to present themselves in a glossy, post make-over, Gok Wan-esque style, then weekday tours are the minimal make-up, flat-shoed version of the institution and are, let’s face it, much closer to the real, day-to-day experience of being a student there. Visitors tend to fall into three distinct groups; the ‘decided’ – just here for a confirmation visit; the ‘undecided’ – genuinely torn between two or more schools; and the ‘split decision’ families – where one or other parent favours a different school, or where parents want the child to accept a particular school, but the child has other ideas! Certainly, for the latter two groups, the tour is an incredibly important experience. Having spent an inordinate amount of time organising a pretty complicated summer holiday for a family of five, I was reminded of how easy it is to be bamboozled by advice overload. The challenge of finding an affordable venue for a four-day stay in Venice, only met after reading a great article with specific insider advice. With that in mind here are five questions you might have in mind when touring:
online learning material from home, good play spaces, nice classrooms, pleasant communal areas, first-aid provision, effective communication with parents.
1. Is this school a practical option for the whole family? Consider ease of journey, cost and timings of buses, proximity to a station, safety of the immediate environment and local area, term dates matching those of siblings, possibility of younger siblings also joining the school.
5. Do the students model the qualities you want your child to have by the time they leave the school? Talk to students in lessons you visit, watch their interactions at lesson changeover, stop and ask them about their school experiences. Are the teachers and support staff friendly, committed, inspiring?
2. Are the basics in place to ensure an effective daily routine? Early arrival and after school care provision, school catering, lockers, access to a library or other learning areas, availability of computers or iPads at school, access to
‘If formal Open Days encourage schools to present themselves in a post-make-over style, then weekday tours are the minimal make-up version’ 118
3. Is the school academically ambitious? Find out about value added, extension opportunities, support for anyone struggling, curriculum reviews, subject mentoring. Is the teaching exciting, stimulating? Is there clear evidence of learning in the lessons, on the walls, in the students’ files and books? Ask about leavers’ destinations and careers advice. 4. What is on offer beyond the classroom? Ask about the full range and involvement levels for trips, clubs, societies, community service, leadership opportunities, and links with business and other institutions.
Finally, and probably most importantly, trust your instincts. Families often talk about the ‘feeling’ they get from a school visit. What made me book the little apartment in Venice was not price, location or facilities but a sense, looking at the photo of the pretty walled courtyard garden, that we would just love being there…it felt right. That’s what you’re after when it comes to a school for your child. (cheadlehulmeschool.co.uk, 0161 488 3345)
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
Promotion | The CHESHIRE Magazine
The talk of lancashire Everyone’s talking about Rossall; first female Head in its 170 year history, unprecedented investment and items in the media as diverse as WW1 letters from Old Rossallians, collaborative projects with local restaurants and live links with the International Space Station. But what lies behind the buzz?
F
rom the road and the seafront there is little to give away the vibrancy and rich history of this hidden gem of a school on the Fylde coast. Indeed the lack of kerb appeal is very much on the Head’s ‘to-do’ list but there have been more pressing areas for investment – this is, after all, a school with the education and inspiration of its students very much at its heart. So the multi-million pound investment over the past four years has focused on teaching facilities, accommodation and the careful preservation of the beautiful historic buildings.
120
Rossall was established in 1844 as sister school to Marlborough in Wiltshire, one of the great Victorian public schools, and was known affectionately as the ‘Eton of the North’ – a description which the 21st century Rossall aims to rekindle. Certainly, once you step through the gates of the 160 acre campus, you are walking into one of the finest independent school sites in the country; with its turreted archway, vast Harry Potter-esque dining hall, manicured quads and expansive playing fields, the school is reminiscent of an Oxbridge college. But this is most definitely not a school which is stuck in the past – innovation and a bold approach to learning means that Rossall students can benefit from the very best educational approaches; in the Junior School, the pupils follow the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme and in the Sixth Form the students can choose between the traditional A Level or prestigious IB Diploma Programme route. Fuse this educational innovation with the wonderful traditions which still prevail (house singing, Ross Hockey on the beach, to name but two) and you start to tune into the buzz of this place. Add in the central location, delivering the healthiest yet most challenging of climates, and the Rossall spirit really begins to make sense. The school attracts day and boarder students from far and wide. This cosmopolitan mix is another factor which adds to the buzz of this outward and forward-looking school. It also means that Rossall students make friends for life from right across the globe – networking for the future. To experience the school first hand, attend one of our Open Days, arrange a private tour or visit us at the Independent Schools Show, 8-9 November. Rossall School, Lancashire FY7 8JW (rossall.org.uk; 01253 774201)
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Family
L
et your child’s bed carry them into dreamland with Noa & Nani. This new online boutique offers imaginative cabin style beds perfect for play, study, and of course a peaceful night’s sleep. Whether your little one would prefer a swashbuckling adventure in the Pirate Pete Tent, or to sleep as well as royalty in the Princess Fairytale Cabin, Noa & Nani are sure to have a bed to sweeten their dreams. Once your child has chosen, their bed can even be fitted with coordinating add-ons, including slides, towers and tunnels. Parents, you may never have trouble getting your kid to bed again. (noaandnani.co.uk)
In Your
Dreams 121
PAUL OGDEN FUND MANAGER. EXTREME RUNNER. WACONIAN. Like many other Old Waconians, Paul Ogden (Class of 1983) has gone on to have a successful career in the City, as a Founding Partner of a fund management company with over $200 million assets under management. He is convinced that his time at Cheadle Hulme School played an invaluable part in preparing him for his career in business. Away from his business life, Paul is a keen sportsman and distance runner, competing in over 20 marathons.
“I think being an Old Waconian means that you know you’ve got a strong academic background but also that you’ve grown up in an environment where you’re encouraged to think differently about things.” FOR DETAILS OF OUR NEXT OPEN DAY AND TO FIND OUT HOW YOU CAN BECOME A WACONIAN, VISIT
whatisawaconian.co.uk
homes and
interiors showcasing the
finest HOMES & PROPERTY IN CHESHIRE AND BEYOND
Rolling in
the Deep Plain talking
The man behind the world’s chicest yacht interiors
Quaker-inspired country kitchens from Katie Fontana
iimage: luxury superyacht vertigo by alloy yachts (page 140)
Home & interiors news
#1 To Catch a Thief Christian Lacroix takes us on a voyage to the French Riviera with his new A/W14 Belles Rives collection for Designers Guild. The eclectic range comprises a selection of fabrics, wall coverings, rugs and cushions bursting with citruses and electric blues, and patterns range from botanical foliage motifs derived from the Batailles de fleurs carnival parade in Nice to wild leopard prints of Jean Cocteau’s Southern France sanctuary. The collection also draws upon Alfred Hitchcock’s heist classic, To Catch a Thief, with digitally printed gemstones reminiscent of the jewels stolen by the film’s leading lady, Grace Kelly. (designersguild.com)
124
#2 Blue Moon L’Objet honours its Mediterranean roots with the new autumn anniversary collection, Sous la Lune, in celebration of its tenth anniversary. Taking its inspiration from the azure Mediterranean skies, the Lapis Collection consists of porcelain dinnerware and desk accessories, as well as a limited edition anniversary candle box. Sous la Lune also includes two intricately designed handcrafted photo frames, Chevron and Night Sky, featuring enamel and available in either 24-carat gold or platinum frosting. (l-objet.com)
Homes and Interiors
#3 Downtown Modern
#5 Let It Burn
As the leaves turn to orange and the scent of sweet, spicy cinnamon lingers in the autumnal air, Ralph Lauren Home brings a sophisticated touch to the scene with its new Fall collection, Downtown Modern. The contemporary range features modern furnishings in a black-and-white colour palette and finished with silver chroming, from table top accents to lighting. Clean-cut precision and craftsmanship are highlighted in the Bond Chess Set while Southwestern textiles inspired by Navajo prints bring warmth to the collection. (ralphlaurenhome.com)
Neom Organics has teamed up with fashion designer Jenny Packham to create two new limited edition candles. Real Luxury has been inspired by the bewitching beauty of 1940s Film Noir femme fatales and is infused with floral overtones with a hint of lavender, jasmine and Brazilian rosewood essential oils. The 18-carat gold design set against an ebony backdrop evokes the glamour of the 1940s heroine. Happiness, on the other hand, delicately blends the purest essential oils such as white neroli, mimosa flowers and lemon, and the gold beaded pattern on an ivory casing is reminiscent of Packham’s intricate bridal gowns. Ultimate candle, £295 (2000g: 150 hour burn time) Luxury candle, £80 (390g: 50 hour burn time) (neomorganics.com)
#6 Beyond the Golden Gates
#4 forever blowing bubbles Roche Bobois’ Bubble Sofa is every inch as fun as it sounds, completely handmade and covered in a bespoke fabric which is extendable in two directions and made from a black jersey with a soft touch honeycomb wool carefully applied over the top. Created by Sacha Lakic Design, the piece is vibrant and quirky, giving any room a splash of colour. And better still, the whole A/W collection will be available at special introductory prices from October 11-19 at all the brand’s showrooms. 121 Great Ancoats Street, Manchester, M4 5AG (roche-bobois.com)
Italian fashion house Versace pays homage to its heritage this season with its lavish Via Gesù collection. From luscious silks of baroque embroidery to classical Grecian meander trimmings, the collection extends from dining sets to home furnishings, including the newly stylised Via Gesù sofa and is available in five colours. (versacehome.com)
125
A9
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
Homes and Interiors
interview
Plain Talking Lord help your cupboards once you’ve seen inside Katie Fontana’s Georgian Quaker kitchens, writes Kari Rosenberg
I
f you’ve ever walked past Plain English’s elegant shop and not been immediately compelled to rip out your kitchen and make Katie Fontana’s ‘Georgian Quaker aesthetic’ your new interior design philosophy, then frankly, you must have had your eyes closed.
127
interview
Set up in 1992 with her then (life) partner Tony Niblock, the two are still solid in the business department, having opened their first showroom around five years ago. ‘We started off very small, working from home, with a little showroom,’ says Katie. ‘It came about not by design, but kind of by accident after a series of events.’ Having previously worked with Tony in commercial interior design, the recession of the 80s and 90s saw the two lose their major client, Primark, prompting them to take a year out and build a house in Suffolk. At the time, Shaker shops were cropping up all over London, and Katie’s eyes were opened to Shakerinfluenced minimalism and styling. ‘I was very taken with it,’ says Katie. ‘I realised, actually, that its roots had come from early Georgian English architecture and architectural joinery, so I started researching early Georgian joinery and decided to do the house we were building in that style. I found examples of windows, doors, skirting and staircases and did the whole house in that look. However, when it
came to the kitchen, I couldn’t even find one I liked, let alone one that I could afford. So I designed my own cupboards in the style that I thought they should be. All I wanted was plain cupboards, and I couldn’t understand why nobody just did plain cupboards! So I did them for myself.’ While ‘plain’ is undoubtedly a humble and misleading adjective that does the designs little justice, it’s hard to find another word to describe its elegantly understated, yet contemporary ‘beautiful in its simplicity’ appeal. When her house got featured in a magazine, Katie assumed that it would be a springboard for launching a career in interior architecture, but she was mostly inundated by questions about where we got the kitchen. ‘We just had so many requests that we thought we better start selling some of these. It snowballed and carried on and 20 years later we’re still going!’ As the years have gone on, the brand has added a few other ranges to its collection, now totalling five different kitchens. ‘I did a slightly fancier one and a sort of Shaker-y one and then one with a slightly American feel about it. Recently I did the Osea Island. It has a slightly more modern look about it and that was directly in response to some potential customers asking after something a bit more modern looking, but still with all the careful detailing and human elements: the soul.’ ‘But there’s certainly a trend at the moment for mixing very modern or very contemporary looking pieces with some quite traditional cupboards;
‘Plain is a humble and misleading adjective that does the designs little justice’ 128
Homes and Interiors
129
interview
130
Homes and Interiors
mixing and matching from our ranges. The first time someone asked for it we thought ‘that’s a bit of a weird idea!’ But I liked how it turned out. It definitely seems to be a trend at the moment.’ Although the brand has expanded into other rooms, Katie’s first love will always be the kitchen. ‘The kitchen has very much become the most important room in the house I think; a lot of people don’t venture out of that room, they live most of their lives in their kitchen-dining-living space.’ However, shockingly, her kitchen is not a Plain English model. She laughs: ‘My house in Suffolk is quite a humble townhouse and the kitchen used to be a brew house for a brewery so it’s just got whitewashed walls and a brick floor, a black Aga and a huge sink that’s four feet wide, and a freestanding lovely Bosch retro cream fridge. The only Plain English thing I have in it is a worktable which is ten feet long with a zinc top. But disappointingly, no kitchen cupboards!’ When pressed, she isn’t embarrassed by this admission, showing a rare designer’s integrity that goes far wider than endorsing your brand for fast sales, but staying true to the character of the home you inherit. ‘It just didn’t suit this house. And despite the fact that I own a kitchen company and could have anything I liked, I just didn’t feel it was right for this house. The architecture of places speaks to you. I don’t like to do things that are against what the architecture of the building is asking for, so it didn’t warrant having lots of cupboards. It wasn’t that sort of room.’
People are quick to judge her home because of what she does. And while the downstairs is perfectly thought out, it gets a lot more chaotic as you ascend. ‘Inevitably in my home, downstairs is the bit that people see most, and that’s where you’ll find my more prized pieces; things I’ve chosen and carefully selected. I was once horrified because there was a photo shoot at my house and I couldn’t be here and they’d ventured into my spare bedroom which has got some bits and pieces that were left over from my parents’ house, that I didn’t especially like but I couldn’t bear to part with. And I was horrified to see them in the photo shoot! I think as you get higher up my house gets less special.’ Choosing a few items to lift a house is easy: ‘I’d have an Aga…predictable there! For me, an Aga is everything. I’d be very happy with a very simple room with lime plastered or lime washed walls. I like very beautiful floors. The rest of the room can be very simple with just a couple of other beautiful pieces of furniture. At the moment I’m mad on a Georgian bookcase I’ve seen in an antique shop and it’s rather a lot of money. I keep thinking I’d be very happy if I just had that! All the furniture I have is antique. I’ve got a beautiful 1836 square piano by Broadwood & Sons, which I love. Probably my next most treasured piece is a Georgian armchair. I’ve pulled half the fabric off and it’s here in its half stripped state but it has real character to it.’ (plainenglishdesign.co.uk)
131
Smallwood
People Property Places
Broadbottom
LD SO LD SO LD SO
LD SO Pott Shrigley
Mobberley
Macclesfield
LD
SO
SO
LD
Alderley Edge
Lower Withington
LD
SO
LD
Wilmslow
Mottram St Andrew
SO
LD SO Bradwall
SO
SO
LD
Styal
LD
SO
LD
jackson-stops.co.uk
Wilmslow
Wilmslow 01625 540 340 wilmslow@jackson-stops.co.uk Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional offices
Nether Alderley A magnificent newly constructed Manor House set in just over 6.5 acres overlooking its own lake
• 4 reception rooms • study • media room • wine cellar • games room with bar • gym • leisure suite with pool,
Jacuzzi & sauna/steam room • 6 bedrooms (all en suite) • 1 bed annexe • garaging
Guide Price: £5,750,000
FF52217
Prestbury A luxurious family house with breathtaking rural views in approximately 2.5 acres
• 3 reception rooms • study • orangery • indoor pool with sitting & relaxation rooms • gym • steam room • games room • cinema • 5 bedrooms • 4 bathrooms • garaging with accommodation above • EPC - C Guide Price: £4,875,000
FF56172
Wilmslow 01625 540 340 wilmslow@jackson-stops.co.uk Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional offices
People Property Places
Great Warford
People Property Places
Wilmslow
LD SO LD SO LD SO
LD SO Knutsford
Alderley Edge
Ollerton
LD
SO
SO
LD
Mottram St Andrew
Kermincham
LD
SO
LD
Smallwood
Brereton Park
SO
LD SO Alderley Edge
SO
SO
LD
Wilmslow
LD
SO
LD
jackson-stops.co.uk
Woodford
Wilmslow 01625 540 340 wilmslow@jackson-stops.co.uk Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional offices
Prestbury An astounding high specification family house with leisure suite & staff accommodation
• 4 reception rooms • study • wine store • 6 bedrooms (all en suite) • leisure suite with pool, Jacuzzi, gym & day room • 2 bedroom staff flat • garaging • just over half an acre • EPC – C Guide Prices: £4,150,000
FF57135
Alderley Edge An exquisite modern family house, circa 10,000 sq ft, with a bespoke interior & commanding views
• 3 reception rooms • library • bar • wine cellar • 5 bedrooms • 4 bathrooms • leisure suite with pool, cinema, snooker room & games room • garaging • approximately 0.6 of an acre • EPC - C Guide Price: £3,950,000
FF56049
Wilmslow 01625 540 340 wilmslow@jackson-stops.co.uk Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional offices
People Property Places
Bowdon
People Property Places
Prestbury
LD SO LD SO LD SO
LD SO Bowdon
Nether Alderley
Brereton Park
LD
SO
SO
LD
Mobberley
Hale
LD
SO
LD
Over Alderley
Alderley Edge
SO
LD SO Bowdon
SO
SO
LD
Wilmslow
LD
SO
LD
jackson-stops.co.uk
Marton
Hale 0161 928 8881 hale@jackson-stops.co.uk Wilmslow 01625 540 340 wilmslow@jackson-stops.co.uk Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional offices
Combs, High Peak A delightful stone farm house with truly breathtaking views over the Peak District National Park
• 2 reception rooms • study • breakfast room • 4 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms • garaging • paddock • just over 5.5 acres • EPC – E Guide Prices: £885,000
FF56940
Bowdon A fine detached family house in stunning grounds providing excellent accommodation
• 3 reception rooms • study • 4 bedrooms • 3 bath/shower rooms • detached annexe • garaging • approximately 3/4 of an acre • EPC – E Guide Price: £1,995,000
FF57784
Hale 0161 928 8881 hale@jackson-stops.co.uk Wilmslow 01625 540 340 wilmslow@jackson-stops.co.uk Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional offices
People Property Places
Bowdon
People Property Places
Alderley Edge
LD SO LD SO LD
Prestbury
SO
LD SO LD Bowdon
Bowdon
Alderley Edge
SO LD
LD SO
SO
LD
Wilmslow
Siddington
SO
SO
LD
Bowdon
Alderley Edge
LD
SO
LD
Worsley
SO
SO
LD
jackson-stops.co.uk
Bowdon
Hale 0161 928 8881 hale@jackson-stops.co.uk Wilmslow 01625 540 340 wilmslow@jackson-stops.co.uk Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional offices
Bowdon An outstanding period property in a tranquil highly sought-after residential location
• 3 reception rooms • games room • study area • wine cellar • 5 bedrooms (1 with dressing room) • 3 bathrooms • EPC – E Guide Price: £1,345,000
FF57786
Winwick An individual detached house enjoying spacious accommodation, extensive gardens, stabling & paddocks
• 3 reception rooms • garden room • conservatory • 6 bedrooms • 3 bathrooms • large gardens • paddocks • detached workshop/stable (currently used as hair salon with storage) • EPC – C Guide Price: £895,000
FF58123
Hale 0161 928 8881 hale@jackson-stops.co.uk Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional offices
People Property Places
INSPIRATION
140
Homes and Interiors
Rolling in the
deep Natalie Cox discovers the man at the helm of luxury yacht design and considers the timeless appeal of true innovation
A
chille Salvagni is the name you need to know in the world of bespoke yacht design. The Italian architect became a member of the National Registered Architects Association in Rome in 1999 before honing his craft in Sweden at the Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm and spending time in Finland and England.
141
INSPIRATION
142
Homes and Interiors
Working in countries with such different design aesthetics has clearly influenced the architect, and his name has become synonymous not just with luxury, but with a unique design instinct that combines Italian opulence with the clean touch of Scandinavian modernism and a willingness to push the boundary between art and practical function. Salvagni is now in the tenth year of running his own firm for architecture and interior design, SalvagniArchitetti, which works predominantly on luxury apartments and yachts. In 2007 their motoryacht MikyMar won the World Yachts Trophies Award for best yacht
over 24 metres in the interior design category, and since then the industry’s hidden treasure has ceased to be quite such a secret. The 70 metre motoryacht Numptia has also added some silverware to SalvagniArchitetti’s shelf, having won both the Judges Special Award at the World Superyacht Awards for the Interior Design With The Widest Appeal, and the Bespoke Furniture Award at the Show Boats Design Awards. Salvagni’s vision goes beyond trends, giving his boats a timeless yet vibrant feel. As well as his eclectic eye, he claims to possess ‘that subtle and precious ability to deal with real
143
INSPIRATION
‘He is evolving more and more toward mixtures and turning away from the ‘total look’ concept’ elegance and discretion, mixing things that don’t belong together and playing with styles with a flair for narrative interiors.’ He also explains that he is ‘evolving more and more toward mixtures and turning away from the ‘total look’ concept,’ which is clear from the strikingly bold features of Numptia that do not shy away from being a collection of different statements,
144
rather than mere component parts. Now working with eleven designers in his studio, Salvagni is currently designing numerous projects for around the world in cities such as London, New York, Rome, Paris and Porto Cervo. He is certain to remain the go-to designer for one of a kind yachts for a long time to come. (salvagniarchitetti.net)
Homes and Interiors
145
RECREATE THE LOOK With light streaming in from every angle and ocean panoramas aplenty, the interiors of your yacht offer a truly unique opportunity to create a bright, breezy haven of calm and tranquillity
T
his month we take our inspiration from the interiors of some of the world’s most beautiful superyachts which, much like the above example taken from the 58 metre Benetti yacht ‘Sunday’, are the perfect setting for clean, bright design with a warm heart. Go for neutral, light colours when it comes to walls and basic furnishings – this way you’ll create an excellent blank canvas which will glow in the natural sunlight which floods into large-windowed cabins during the day, and soft, warm wall-mounted lighting
146
(or candlelight) in the evening. This simple, unfussy backdrop also provides an ideal setting for quirky, vibrant statement pieces, such as retro artwork and bold ornaments which might otherwise encourage a cluttered feel. It’s always tempting to indulge a nautical theme – and why not? – but it’s important not to go overboard. Simple, subtle touches such as shells, coral and beach-house-inspired pieces work well and serve as a gentle reminder of the surrounding natural beauty with which it is impossible (and inadvisable) to compete.
Homes and Interiors
#3
#1
#2 #4
#5 #8
#6 #7
a floating palace ‘an ideal setting for quirky, vibrant statement pieces, such as retro artwork and bold ornaments’ #1 Masterpiece GM Candelabra, £260, Georg Jensen (georgjensen.com) #2 Isaac Sofa, £POA, Oly San Francisco (olystudio.com) #3 Calico Coffee Table, £POA, Achica (achica.com) #4 Silk Orchid, £35, John Lewis (johnlewis.com) #5 Saint Laurent by Poppy Waddlove, £895 (luxdeco.com) #6 Gravy bowl shell, £4,950, Katharine Pooley (katharinepooley.com) #7 Stripe Cushion, £25, Linea (houseoffraser.co.uk) #8 Cream Chenille Cushion, £15, Linea (houseoffraser.co.uk)
147
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
10758 Stretton Green DPS CL 210x297 wc010914.qxp_Layout 1 02/09/2014 15:52 Page 1
NE w luxury HOMES OFFERING GOLF COURSES, D R I V I N G R A N G E A N D H E A LT H S PA FA C I L I T I E S
10758
10758 Stretton Green DPS CL 210x297 wc010914.qxp_Layout 1 02/09/2014 15:52 Page 2
FIRST phase of homes sold out, second phase now available Whether you’re teeing off on Carden Park’s Championship Course designed by Jack Nicklaus, or being pampered to a tee in their sumptuous spa, life at Stretton Green is country living like no other. Prices from £775,000 to £1,200,000. Call today to appreciate what this prestigious development has to offer. Stretton Hall Lane, Malpas, Cheshire SY14 7HS. View: redrow.co.uk/stretton Call: 01829 458 977
Cheshire and Manchester’s Largest Leading Independant Estate Agents Visit our new web site www.jordanfishwick.co.uk
South Downs Road Bowdon
Beautiful country residence close to Hale village • Leisure facilities include swimming pool • Five bedrooms with en suite • Variety of living space and entertaining rooms • Live-in security staff and help
£15,000 per calender month 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
Torkington Road Wilmslow
Highly prestigious location • Individually designed bespoke residence • Six bedrooms, four bathrooms • Four striking reception rooms • Beautifully presented both internally and externally • Internal viewing essential
Guide Price: £2,500,000 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
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
Adderley: A resid ence that inhabits you
Once you’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
Homes and Interiors
FINISHING TOUCHES Unlikely pairings and a mishmash of materials help create a truly eclectic interior
#3
#1 #2
#7
#1 Basil lamp (excluding shade), £600 +VAT (coxlondon.com) #2 Kastehelmi candle holder, from a selection (iittala.com) #3 Glass bird from the Birds by Toikka collection, from a selection (iittala.com) #4 Alvar Aalto vase, from a selection (iittala.com) #5 Aurelia three-seat sofa, £909 (houseoffraser.co.uk) #6 Maxfield lounge chair, £5,895 (ralphlauren.co.uk) #7 Art line card and crest, from a selection (timothyoulton.co.uk)
#4
#5
#6
157
y
feature
The country house garden Literary connections, or descriptions by eminent writers, add great cachet to a house and garden’s reputation. Few places have been so extolled as Broughton Castle
158
Homes and Interiors
LEFT: Rosa ‘Gertrude Jekyll’ is one of the favourite roses in the garden at Broughton Castle. RIGHT: In My Lady’s Garden, soft pastel white, pink and mauve shades predominate in the planting. OPPOSITE: The South Border stretches the length of the garden and faces on to an open expanse of lawn with the moat beyond.
A
flavour of its praises through the centuries comes from no less a pen than that of Henry James, who wrote in 1877: ‘Nothing can be sweeter than to see its clustered walls of yellow-brown stone so sharply islanded while its gardens bloom on the other side of the water.’ This simple, brief description perfectly captures much of Broughton’s magic: the distinctive, warm, golden Hornton stone quarried nearby; and the enviable unity of the house, its larger parkland setting, surrounding moat and the garden, which gives the appearance of adorning the building with delicate but perfectly chosen garments. Indeed, the garden’s key quality is its subtlety. Wrapping around the stone walls and enlivening courtyards, rather than filling specific spaces of its own, it ensures the presentation of a country house garden ideal. Visiting Broughton is an intensely romantic experience that you first sense as you turn into the park and see Old English Longhorn cattle grazing on the bank to one side and the village church spire to the other.
Beyond lies the castellated medieval gatehouse through which the entrance courtyard presents the house – its spacious lawn showing off the Elizabethan stonework and tall windows. From here the garden is hidden on the far side of the house, waiting to be discovered. Part of Broughton’s appeal derives from its turbulent history and its occupation by the Fiennes family throughout, ever since the late fifteenth century, but the origins of the garden as it appears today date from the late nineteenth century. From the 1880s until the early years of the twentieth century, Broughton was let to Lord and Lady Algernon GordonLennox, a leading society couple. She created the aptly named My Lady’s Garden during the 1890s, and
‘Nothing can be sweeter than to see its clustered walls of yellow-brown stone so sharply islanded while its gardens bloom on the other side of the water’
159
feature
it remains the garden’s centrepiece, enclosed by stone walls and laid out with its distinctive pattern of clipped box fleur-de-lis. The Fiennes family returned to Broughton in 1912, but by the 1940s the house and garden were once again in a parlous state. In 1968 the present Lord Saye and Sele inherited with his wife Mariette, and with the help of English Heritage grants they have carried out a painstaking restoration that has included the inspired development of the present garden. In the early years they were helped with advice from the garden designer Lanning Roper, an American by birth, who enjoyed a distinguished career as the doyen of English country house gardens in the 1960s and 1970s. Lord Saye and Sele still laughs when he recalls Roper’s early advice that they should allow the garden to ‘spill and flow’ – referring to his preferred style of border planting. Perhaps more relevant, Roper urged them to keep the garden simple, allowing the building and setting to speak for themselves. This has meant that planting is focused in
LEFT: Rosa ‘Goldfinch’ covers the wall above the low entrance to My Lady’s Garden. RIGHT: The secluded, walled My Lady’s Garden from the upper rooms of the castle, showing the fleur-de-lis pattern, the moat and the park beyond
160
Homes and Interiors
the enclosure of My Lady’s Garden and in a limited group of borders beneath the stone walls, and that these are perfectly balanced by spacious areas of lawn stretching to the moat to the south and west and views out to the parkland beyond. Midsummer is the time to visit Broughton, because the roses – in particular the climbing and rambling varieties that swathe the warm stone walls – infuse the garden’s appearance and atmosphere with an Arthurian air of nostalgia. Inside My Lady’s Garden, beneath the south-facing house wall, is a deep border planted with Hybrid Musk varieties and a complementary medley of summer-flowering perennials. The central area, with its pattern of clipped box fleur-de-lis containing shrub roses maintains a sense of order. But the billowing combinations of roses, perennials and the occasional choice shrub in the surrounding borders and climbing roses with clematis on the walls behind, along with the courtyard-like atmosphere, have a memorably intoxicating effect. From one side, a narrow doorway gives an elevated view down into My Lady’s Garden, and on the south side another arched entrance frames enticing views both in and out. One distinctive characteristic of the best country house gardens is to be so understated that the quality is imperceptible to the casual visitor – it is just ‘there’. Nowhere is this better demonstrated than at Broughton, where the whole garden seems utterly effortless.
‘The billowing combinations of roses, perennials and the occasional choice shrub… have a memorably intoxicating effect.’ Some gardens are places for close observation, for notebooks and admiration of rare horticultural specimens or clever design. Broughton Castle is not. It is a place where the picture of the garden and its component parts are gently absorbed by a visitor in such a way that he or she leaves with an almost ethereal image. The English Country House Garden: Traditional Retreats to Contemporary Masterpieces. By George Plumptre, photography by Marcus Harpur. Published by Frances Lincoln, £25.
161
Homes and Interiors
creating a haven Inspired by the English Country Garden, we show you how to create your own secret garden, however large or small
#1
#2 #8 #1 Rowlinson Connor Cabin, £2,950, Heritage Gardens (heritagegardens.co.uk) #2 Zeno Barro Outdoor Wood Fireplace, £3,195, Garden House Design (gardenhousedesign.co.uk) #3 Wooden Garden Trug, £20, Lovestruck Interiors (lovestruckinteriors.com) #4 Flow Garden Lounger with Footstool, £395, Cuckooland (cuckooland.com) #5 Orla Kiely Fork & Trowel, £19.95 each, Hintons Home (hintonshome.com) #6 Range of trees (fig, willow, cherry), from £29.50, Trees Direct (treesdirect.co.uk) #7 Buster Welly Bag, £45, Poppy & Rufus (poppyandrufus.co.uk) #8 Up-cycled Rook Copper Sculpture, £550, Sable & Ox (sableandox.co.uk)
#7
#3 #5
#4 #6
162
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
savills.co.uk
1 audlem, cheshire A superb 6 bedroom family house with a self contained 2 bedroom annexe ø 3 reception rooms ø open plan kitchen/dining room ø utility room ø 6 bedrooms ø 4 bathrooms ø sauna ø 2 bedroom self contained annexe ø double garage ø EPC=C Guide £895,000
Savills Chester Charlie Kannreuther ckannreuther@savills.com
01244 32 32 32
LOCAL PROPERTY
Steppingstone HILL ROAD NORTH, FRODSHAM
S
teppingstone is located on the slopes of Helsby Hill, a wooded hill above the Cheshire Plain and Mersey Estuary, much of which belongs and is managed by the National Trust. The nearby villages of Helsby and Frodsham offer a good balance of daily services and the city of Chester a more comprehensive range. The M56 provides an excellent link with Chester, Liverpool and Manchester and Liverpool Airport is located about 21 miles away. The Steppingstone project was inspired by the owner’s wish to create a discreet and private house, perfectly aligned to contemporary living, in a stunning position. It embraces the functional aspects of neo-modern architecture and key attributes of modern technology to provide a versatile and comfortable living environment. The relaxed, free-flowing nature of the property belies the sophistication
166
of the design. A substantial section of the property lies beneath the original ground level and yet the light, air quality and views are exceptional. The fully integrated technology includes keyless doors, some with fingerprint recognition, an audio/visual system supporting various satellite feeds, Lutron lighting, both mechanical and natural climate control. There are both large and small spaces within the structure, with the main living area largely open plan. The leisure facilities are exceptional and range from an indoor sports hall to a gym, indoor pool with a sauna and Jacuzzi, to an outdoor 3G surfaced five-a-side football pitch. The site is accessed from the land via sliding electronic gates opening onto a block-paved driveway. The front door is discretely positioned and opens into a hallway beside the staircase giving access to the property’s four floors. The main
Homes and Interiors
living space is provided in a dramatic single room. Whilst it’s a substantial space, it is cleverly divided by partitions into a series of rooms, each with their own particular style. They include relaxed and more formal sitting areas, a dining room and kitchen. The emphasis is on simplicity of form and function and a 22m panoramic window takes maximum advantage of the spectacular views of the surrounding countryside – a panoramic view which was the original inspiration for the project.
The fixtures and fittings are of the highest quality and the technological hub is in a room linking the living space with the gardens. A second staircase leads to the leisure section, the focal point of which is a fully equipped sports bar with fridges, seating and three TV screens. The bar overlooks an open hall used for indoor games such as cricket, badminton and football. Parallel to the sports hall is a stunning indoor pool with a sauna, Jacuzzi and changing rooms, and a gym. The bedroom accommodation is split between a family area and guest suites. The family area has additional seating and sits within the tower from which there are excellent views. The staff flat has independent access and opens onto a central below ground courtyard. A partglazed link provides additional garaging and a covered walkway to the main garage block and workshop. The offices are beyond and offer excellent, versatile space, and there is also a state-of-the-art wine cellar. Frodsham, guide price ÂŁ4,750,000 Savills, 22 Lower Bridge St, Chester, CH1 1RS (01244 323232, savills.co.uk)
167
LOCAL PROPERTY
The Manor House CHELFORD
T
he Manor House is Grade II Listed, being one of only 20,000 properties Listed with this designation within the United Kingdom. The Manor House itself is a timeless masterpiece, surrounded by professionally designed grounds, with numerous separate gardens featuring intricate planting providing many areas of delight. These stunning gardens wrap around two further properties, namely Honeysuckle Cottage and Wisteria Cottage, which complete this small estate. These three dwellings are served by a range of outbuildings, one of which is a Grade II Listed tithe barn. There is also an oak-framed building housing a yet to be completed indoor swimming pool (to be completed by the purchaser), together with a full range of brick buildings, currently used for storage. A hefty oak studded door opens
168
into the stone-flagged entrance hall, with the walls and ceilings hung with timber beams. The rooms are all generous in proportion, with numerous beams and impressive fireplaces. The drawing room is the most impressive of all, with French doors leading out onto the south terrace and a bay window with seat overlooking the west gardens. The master bedroom suite is stately in size, with a pretty bay window including seat overlooking the west gardens. There are five further double bedrooms served by a family bathroom, shower room, and a separate WC. A small timber staircase, with priest hole beneath, leads to two good sized attic rooms, with potential for conversion (subject to the necessary consents being obtained). Chelford, guide price ÂŁ6,000,000 Jackson-Stops & Staff, 8 Water Lane, Wilmslow, SK9 5AA (01625 540340, jackson-stops.co.uk)
Homes and Interiors
Collar House Collar House Drive, Prestbury
T
he Willows is constructed of mellow Cheshire brick with large sash windows, set into semi-circular bays, all surmounted by a slate roof. These large original looking windows flood the house with natural light and, together with the exceptionally high ceilings, give the house a real feeling of grandeur and spaciousness. Each room is generous in proportion and is adorned with period fittings such as ceiling roses, moulded ceilings, picture and dado rails, high skirting boards and open stone fireplaces with Living Flame gas fires inset. The current owners have extensively refurbished and extended the house to include an impressive leisure suite and huge extension to the kitchen. A mellow stone pillared portico covers a solid door with fan light
above, opening into a stunning entrance hall, with original staircase and black and white Amtico tiled floor. To either side of the hall are the drawing room and sitting room. To the rear is the enormous openplan kitchen and family room. The kitchen has a bespoke Alno German kitchen and spreads open plan to the family room, which has a high glass roof and glazed elevations, allowing the occupier to fully admire the south-west facing rear gardens. The first floor has a luxurious master suite, with the bedroom enjoying views of the front and rear gardens, a fitted dressing room and a beautifully appointed bathroom. Prestbury, guide price ÂŁ1,500,000 Jackson-Stops & Staff, 8 Water Lane, Wilmslow, SK9 5AA (01625 540340, jackson-stops.co.uk)
169
Homes and Interiors
LOCAL PROPERTY
Southbank House GREAT BUDWORTH
S
outhbank House is a period house, constructed of mellow Cheshire brick with wisteria adorned elevations, all surmounted by an attractive tiled roof. The interior only amplifies the beautiful exterior, with numerous elegant, large, light rooms, all decorated with flair and imagination, to create a modern masterpiece that blends seamlessly with the period features. The kitchen is of grandiose proportions with ample room for a large table and chairs plus family sitting area, with fitted bespoke high gloss units with granite work surfaces and the latest appliances. The house is due south facing and enjoys views of the lavishly planted and extensive gardens, with the Cheshire Plain and Macclesfield hills providing the ultimate backdrop. This extremely private and secure family house sits at the end of a quiet no-through lane, yet is within the centre of Great Budworth village.
170
Again, Southbank House is located at the end of a pretty no-through lane, providing total privacy. With an impressive set of electric oak gates open into a sweeping gravel drive that runs along the front of the house to a separately walled area in front of the triple garaging. The south facing gardens are truly delightful and real feature of the house, with landscaped lawns, encompassed by mature hedging and secure fencing. The garden is segmented into three different areas, two areas consisting of large expanses of level lawns with well-stocked borders. The third area is where the outdoor heated pool lies, with a large stone terrace surrounding, providing a superb al fresco eating area, enjoying the fabulous far-reaching views over the Cheshire Plain. Great Budworth, guide price ÂŁ1,195,000 Jackson-Stops & Staff, 8 Water Lane, Wilmslow, SK9 5AA (01625 540340, jackson-stops.co.uk)
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.
luxury overseas property we’ve picked our favourite properties from around the world for your viewing pleasure
1
TENERIFE
#1 Abama Luxury Residences
Located in Guía de Isora on the west coast of Tenerife, the Abama Luxury Residences offer breath-taking panoramic views over the Atlantic Ocean and the island of La Gomera. Residents have access to ten restaurants, two of which have a total of three Michelin stars between them. Other amenities include the Ritz Carlton, Abama hotel, Dave Thomas 18-hole golf course, seven tennis courts, nine swimming pools, luxury boutiques, spa, kids’ club and golden beach. Abama Terrace Apartments start from €500,000, Bellevue Villas start from €1,650,000, Abama Custom Villa Plots Phase 1 from €750,000 and Phase 2 from €540,000. Custom Villas (as shown in the images) are approximately €2 million including plot, construction, permits, licences and fees. (abamaluxuryresidences.com, Maria Moreno, Abama Sales office: +34 922 126011)
172
PARIS
#2 Rue de Ponthieu
2
This apartment is one of the ten European city apartments that will make up Rocksure’s Capital Fund. Offering investors co-ownership of portfolios of second homes, Rocksure combines annual usage with a planned exit strategy allowing owners to use the properties at times of their choosing throughout the life of the Fund whilst making a tangible investment. The Parisian apartment is located on the second floor of a grand apartment block less than three minutes’ walk from the ChampsElysees. It is 172 sq m/1851 sq ft and comprises of two en-suite double bedrooms, a large living room, dining room and study. It is furnished to a very high spec and is fully airconditioned and centrally heated. (rocksure.com, 01993 823 809)
Homes and Interiors
3
ANDALUCIA
#3 Casa Leona
Casa Leona is part of Rocksure’s Crystal Fund which will purchase six luxury villas in Andalucía, Antigua, Provence, Bodrum, Algarve and Marrakech, offering investors shared equity ownership. Casa Leona is a magnificent five bedroom property set in the hills behind Estepona in Andalucía. Panoramic sea views can be enjoyed from the large outdoor swimming pool and outside dining areas whilst the games and cinema room provide the perfect respite from the summer sun. Close to many of the region’s best golf courses as well as the spectacular Alhambra in Granada and the picturesque town of Ronda, it will appeal to family members young and old. (rocksure.com, 01993 823 809)
ITALY
#4 Panzano in Chianti This stunning property, which originally dates back to 1085, is situated on a hilltop in Panzano, Chianti. The beautiful estate consists of a spacious Tuscan farmhouse and detached wine cellar with office and wine tasting facilities. The main villa is surrounded by 130 acres of land and has been carefully renovated. There are six bedrooms, a spacious living room with an open fireplace, a large open kitchen and dining room, a parlour, gym and 15m swimming pool. Guide price: €9m (savills.com, 020 7016 3740)
4 173
luxury overseas property
SPAIN
#5 Bespoke search Strategic & Buy offers a bespoke and comprehensive service assuming responsibility for everything from the sourcing of homes to the legalities associated with the purchase. Experts at pre-empting the various pitfalls and legal intricacies that buyers often come across when purchasing in Spain, Strategic & Buy offers a personal service that guides purchasers through the entire process to assure them of the validity and security of their purchase options. Dedicated advisors will be assigned to every Strategic & Buy client to discuss immediate property requirements ahead of sourcing relevant properties both on and off the market. Once a shortlist of favourites has been decided on, extensive due diligence will be carried out including in-depth examination of existing and future urban and rural planning. Set up by Sheena Campbell-Royle OBE, Strategic & Buy is discrete, refined and offers a new, hassle-free way to buy, refurbish or create residences in one of the most popular second home destinations in Europe. (strategicandbuy.com, 020 7129 8013)
6 174
5
portugal
#6 Villa Piri Piri Located on a hill beside the market town of LoulĂŠ, Villa Piri Piri is a new beautifully finished country property close to many facilities yet part of a quiet and friendly local community. A bright entrance hall welcomes you into the open style kitchen, dining and living room, while there are various terraces from which to catch the sun or hide from it, not to mention a master bedroom and the large guest suite. On the market for â‚Ź695,000 (savills.com, 020 7016 3740)
Homes and Interiors
SPAIN
#7 Sotogrande Alto
7
Embracing the sun and the voices of the wind with light, light, light everywhere and setting high above the valley of Alcaidesa like a crown jewel, Villa Sosiego majestically adorns Sotogrande. Its stately architecture and elegant whiteness shimmer exquisitely under the warm Spanish sun. Beautiful green gardens climb and wind their way around the bleached walls and colonnaded terraces. Lovely white columns frame the breathtaking view to the hills that overlook the azure Mediterranean Sea. A wonderful blending of art, architecture and nature has inspired a villa like no other. Villa Sosiego (in Spanish it means quiet, peaceful, contented) is unquestionably the best property in Sotogrande. It has everything an exacting property owner could demand: presence, grandeur, style, quality, beauty and peace. Whilst it is a home providing a place of security for the family, it is also somewhere for discreet and successful business transactions. But most of all it is a place for entertaining friends and loved ones with the warmth of companionship and the sound of laughter. Guide price: â‚Ź6,250,000 (savills.com, 020 7016 3740)
new york city
#8 Manhattan
The Rocksure Manhattan Fund offers shared equity ownership of four splendid apartments, expected to average approximately 1500 sq ft (140 sq m), in different areas of the city including the Upper East Side and Tribeca. Shareholders will be able to use them for three-night weekends, a four-night mid-week stay or a week or more, with a maid and concierge service provided. Investment is $350,000 and annual usage is an average of 21 nights. The life of the Fund will be 10 years at which point all properties will be sold and any capital gain repatriated amongst investors. (rocksure.com, 01993 823 809)
8 175
t: 01704 544 222 e: info@portraitpools.com w: portraitpools.com
Rather than simply being a place to rest your head, your bedroom is also your sanctuary. It’s the place where you than simply place to can trulyRather be yourself, awaybeing froma work, rest your head, your bedroom is your children and the stresses and also sanctuary. It’s the place where you strainsyour of day to day life. can truly be yourself, away from work, Luxurious furniture that simplyand your children and the stresses oozesstrains elegance and style, transforming of day to day life.
your bedroom into the boudoir of your on the product range and to help with dreams with contemporary bedroom any queries throughout the buying and furniture, expertly manufactured in fitting process. your bedroom into the boudoir of your on the product andbedrooms to help withare not Germany to the highest Geha’srange dream dreams with contemporary bedroom any queries throughout the buying and all they Geha Bedrooms offers the complete only elegant and unique - above furniture, expertly manufactured in fitting process. service from design and installation are genuinely sturdy and therefore offer Germany to the highest Geha’s dream bedrooms are not to aGeha reputable after-sales service. The style and sophistication Bedrooms offers the complete only long-lasting elegant and unique - above all they team is always on hand to offer advice specification. service from design and installation are genuinely sturdy and therefore offer
2014 ranges now in the Wilmslow showroom
Luxurious furniture that simply oozes elegance and style, transforming
Manufactured to Unit 1, Albany House, 7-17 Church Street
to a reputable after-sales service. The team is always on hand to offer advice
geha geha
the highest quality installed at your home
Unit 1, Albany House, 7-17 Church Street Wilmslow,and Cheshire SK9 1AX professionally Wilmslow, Cheshire SK9 1AX 01625 529 778 01625www.gehauk.com 529 778
www.gehauk.com
long-lasting style and sophistication specification.
Bedrooms
Bedrooms