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Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Manchester Manchester Road, Knutsford, Cheshire WA16 0ST Tel: +44 (0) 1565 700 000 www.rolls-roycemotorcars-manchester.co.uk Official range fuel economy figures for the Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II: Urban 13.2-13.3mpg (21.4-21.2l/100km). Extra Urban 28.8mpg (9.8l/100km). Combined 20.0-20.2mpg (14.1-14l/100km). CO2 emissions 329-327g/km. Figures may vary depending on driving style and conditions. Š Copyright Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Limited 2014. The Rolls-Royce name and logo are registered trademarks.
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18/12/2015 09:50
Regulars | The CHESHIRE Magazine
From the
Editor
EDITOR’S PICKs
1
#1 Ken Hom’s chicken chow mein (page 20)
2
#2 Get romantic with our well groomed style (page 41)
3
#3 Lulu Guinness red lips vanity case (page 78)
F
ebruary is the month when everything settles down for the year ahead. The over indulgence of the holidays is over, as are the sales, and January – the month of being good – has finally finished for another year. It’s the month when resolutions waiver and new ones, possibly, are added to the list. How about adding a little more romance to your life? With Valentine’s Day coming and wedding season soon to be upon us, we’ve pages of help to offer, whether you’re a hopeless romantic or a Romeo in the making. Superintendent registrar Julie Hadfield tells us where we, as a county, sit on the romance scale (page 42); we’ve selected our top holiday destinations to share some special time together (page 100); create your own romantic rooms inspired by hotel nights away (page 137); and we get some expert advice on choosing jewellery for your other half (page 58). There’s inspiration for a great party whatever your style or the occasion; don’t forget the Oscars will be awarded this month! And, with Chinese New Year fast approaching (Monday 8 February), Cantonese cooking legend, Ken Hom, shares his famous chow mein recipe with Gemma Knight (page 20), alongside tales of new year celebrations past and planned. Don’t forget that this February is a leap year so, ladies, if you’re planning to pop him the question, now’s your chance! Enjoy these 29 days: there’s only 335 left of the year, so make each one count.
Louisa Louisa Castle Editor Follow us on Twitter @TheCheshireMag
Proud to support: Variety – The Children’s Charity The Pink Ribbon Ball, Manchester & Breast Cancer now the babygrow appeal, countess of chester hospital
8
THE CHESHIRE MAG_SALE_WINTER_210x297.indd 1
15/12/14 10:20
Investment PLANNING
Retirement Planning
Tax & Estate Planning
“It’s more about you than your money” Phil Illingworth
Jonathan Seddon
THE OLD SCHOOL, HIGH STREET, TATTENHALL, CHESHIRE. CH3 9PX TEL: 01829 771707 WEB: WWW.ILLINGWORTHSEDDON.CO.UK Illingworth Seddon Chartered Financial Planners represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the Group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the Group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products. The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the titles ‘Partner’ and ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives.
042
066
020
Contents
100
090
February 2016
Features
collection
travel
020 | A taste of the East How the Godfather of Cantonese Cuisine, chef Ken Hom, creates tasty Chinese New Years past and present 028 | The A-Z of romance From anniversaries to engagements, parties to proposals, we’ll inspire you to create a fairytale romance 037 | Romance in style Bold and beautiful, vintage or well-groomed, everything you need to look the part during the season of love 042 | Looking for love Meet the Cheshire registrar who’s well and truly seen it all when it comes to love
056 | Jewellery news A full round-up of all the latest in style and sparkle 058 | Diamonds are forever The David M Robinson team help you choose the perfect engagement ring
092 | Travel news 094 | Changing faces In the first of a two-part series, we discover New Zealand 100 | Top 10 romantic hideaways We count down the best places to escape with your sweetheart 105 | Weekend away Make yourself at home in Vienna’s Opera Apartment
regulars
078
094
008 | Editor’s letter 012 | Contributors 015 | My life in Cheshire Fashion designer to the stars, businesswoman and Prestbury native, Sarah Burton 016 | Notebook This month’s local events, news and best new products 025 | Local scene All the glamour and gossip 035 | Taylor talk How to put together your very own romance-inspired party
art 046 | The heart of Manchester Fiona Gasper’s long career 050 | Art & culture news 052 | Prize lots
fashion & beauty 064 | Fashion news From essential accessories to new trends, it’s all here 066| In the spotlight Chunky knits, loose-fitting trousers and capacious coats 074 | Beauty news New treatments, products and all the latest news 076 | Always be prepared Careful preparation and lots of pre-planning will help you achieve a radiant glow for your event or special day 078 | Lip service Handbag and accessories icon Lulu Guinness talks jet-setting in style and her favourite style statements
motoring 084 | Motoring news The latest developments from the automotive world 086 | Racing ahead Combining speed with stability, introducing the brand new Jaguar XF 090 | Sky’s the limit Enjoy life in the open air with the new Mercedes S-Class cabriolet
FAMILY 106 | Kids’ news The very latest for little ones 109 | The classroom 110 | Together through art The Firs’ pupils learn all about their partner school’s heritage
homes & interiors 116 | Interiors news 120 | The bare necessities Interiors guru Anne Line Hansen is revolutionising the way we shop online 134 | Technology central What’s hot in the world of gadgets, games and geekery 137 | Recreate the look It’s all about bedrooms this month, be they master boudoir, guest room or nursery 142 | The great indoors We pick our favourite terrariums, guaranteed to brighten up your interiors 148 | Hot properties 150 | Swiss style Snap up one of these beautiful chalets in the Swiss Alps 154 | Overseas property
Regulars | The CHESHIRE Magazine
february 2016 s issue 026 s
Editor Louisa Castle
The
contributors
Deputy Editor Gemma Knight Editorial Director Kate Harrison Theatre Editor Natalie Anglesey Collection Editor Annabel Harrison Brand Consistency Laddawan Juhong
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. Each month he brings us all the latest developments from the world of timepieces.
CRISPIN HARRIS Crispin’s role as deputy chair of national estate agents Jackson-Stops & Staff gives him unparalleled access to knowledge of property trends and issues, as well as an accurate and up-to-date global view of the property industry.
JENNIFER MASON Jennifer started out in luxury fashion marketing and has since worked as a writer in the UK and Dubai, specialising in motoring, travel, lifestyle and local features. Her time is spent reading and obsessing over the latest Formula 1 results.
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.
MATTHEW CARTER Matthew is a noted freelance journalist who’s been writing about cars formost of his working life. A former editor of Autocar magazine, he is a serial car owner and, this month, investigates Jaguar’s brand new XF.
Production Hugo Wheatley, Oscar Viney Alice Ford, Jamie Steele Advertising Managers Kayleigh Penswick, Kathryn Otto Danielle Mullen Brand Ambassador Keely Barrett General Manager Fiona Fenwick Publisher Giles Ellwood Executive Director Sophie Roberts Managing Director Eren Ellwood
Proudly published by
RUNWILD MEDIA GROUP
www.rwmg.co.uk Runwild Media Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Runwild Media Ltd. takes no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved. DISTRIBUTION The Cheshire Magazine is the largest circulated luxury publication in Cheshire, delivered to selected homes in over 20 postcodes, plus businesses, newsagents and retail outlets. ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Kayleigh Penswick:+44 (0) 784 1199 699 k.penswick@runwildgroup.co.uk Kathryn Otto:+ 44 (0) 797 1981 721 k.otto@runwildgroup.co.uk Danielle Mullen: +44 (0) 796 6159 812 d.mullen@runwildgroup.co.uk
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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars
My life in CHESHIRE SARAH BURTON, CREATIVE DIRECTOR AT ALEXANDER MCQUEEN
W Featureflash Shutterstock.com
‘One of fashion’s most respected and esteemed players’ Dutourdumonde Photography Shutterstock.com
FashionStock.com / Shutterstock.com
image courtesy of Joi Ito
ho could ever have guessed that it would be a fashion-mad Cheshire girl who’d end up dressing the future queen on the most important day of her life? One of five children, Sarah grew up in Prestbury and, according to accountant parents Anthony and Diana, had always loved fashion and shown an artistic streak (something of a surprise to them, since neither talent runs in the family). She attended Manchester’s prestigious Withington Girls’ School, an environment in which she quickly thrived, describing it in recent years as “very academic – they really made you feel that you could do anything, that particularly as a woman you could do anything you wanted”. A straight-A student, Sarah excelled in English, history and art (she was the only student in her year to take art at A-level and her work was constantly on display around the school) and, although she was offered a place at Oxford University’s Ruskin College of Art, she chose instead to take an art foundation course at Manchester Polytechnic. Following her time in Manchester, Sarah moved to London to attend Central Saint Martins, the art and design college renowned for producing some of the most celebrated names in British fashion. In 1996, while still a student there, a tutor who was close friends with fledgling designer Alexander McQueen secured an internship for her at his tiny studio in east London. By 1997, Sarah had graduated and become McQueen’s personal assistant, quickly shooting up through the ranks of the flourishing company and becoming head of design in 2000. Regarded as McQueen’s right-hand woman, when the designer took his life in 2010, Burton was the clear choice to take over in his stead. Since then, she has achieved more than she ever dreamed possible, taking the McQueen brand from strength to strength and forging a name for herself as one of fashion’s most respected and esteemed players. Dressing the likes of Michelle Obama, Cate Blanchett and Lady Gaga, receiving an OBE, presenting the first McQueen womenswear collection in Paris and designing the ballgown which won the coveted Dress of the Year award in 2011 (pictured) might seem like career defining moments, but they pale into insignificance beside the creation which truly catapulted Burton onto the world stage: the captivating dress worn by Kate Middleton on her wedding day. She now lives in the leafy London district of St John’s Wood with her photographer husband David – although there’s little doubt that, like many of her fellow members of the Cheshire diaspora, she’s still a Prestbury girl at heart. 15
THE START OF SPRING Experience a beautiful end of winter walk with one of the UK’s finest snowdrop walks this spring at Rode Hall. With over 70 varieties of snowdrop carpeting the way, it’s a magical start to the new season. There’s a mile-long walk, and shorter or longer options if you’re up for it. The snowdrops are a bit of natural treasure to the northwest, having been planted by over six generations of the Wilbraham family, first in 1833 by Sibella, who came from a family of gifted gardeners. There are even a limited number of Rode Hall snowdrops for sale and a great Farmers’ Market (Saturday 6 February and Saturday 5 March) to combine with your walk. (rodehall.co.uk; rodehallfarmersmarket.co.uk)
NOTEBOOK FETCH DogFest is back, and tickets have just gone on sale. Following its huge success last year and due to popular demand, DogFest 2016 will take place across four days, as it returns to Arley Hall, Cheshire on 18-19 June and moves to the stunning Great Windsor Park, Berkshire on 25-26 June. Hosted by Channel 4’s Supervet, Professor Noel Fitzpatrick, it’s a haven for dogs and their owners, offering a fun-filled weekend of activites, with highlights including The Great Dog Walk and Supervet Live. Twice a day, Noel will lead the way on The Great Dog Walk, the perfect opportunity to get walking with your dog and explore the beautiful grounds of Arley Hall and Great Windsor Park. While your dog enjoys an action-packed day out, you can watch entertaining displays of agility and doggy dancing in the Nerf Activity Ring, get first-hand advice from the experts with talks and demonstrations on all aspects of your dog’s life, and head to the Festival Village to treat yourself to a delicious variety of food and drink, listen to live music and shop ‘til you drop! (dog-fest.co.uk) 16
Richard Cadbury produced the first box of chocolates for Valentine’s Day in the late
1800s
Priscilla Presley’s engagement ring was
3.5 carat diamond
surrounded by a detachable row of smaller diamonds On average, Brits use
52
million eggs
on pancake day Chinese New Year is on 8 February. It is the year of the monkey
“Men always want to be a
woman’s first love - women like to be a man’s last romance” Oscar Wilde
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars
5 top picks
Inspired by rose quartz
#1 Roses de Chloé, £50 (houseoffraser.co.uk)
#2 Rose Hummer linen cushion, £65 (annajacobsart.com)
BANGOR ON DEE CHARITY
T
he weather didn’t dampen the spirits of race goers as they attended the tenth annual Anne, Duchess of Westminster’s Charity Race Day at Bangor-on-Dee, raising over £38,000 to fund the research and treatment of sick and injured animals at the Animal Health Trust (AHT) in Newmarket. AHT president, HRH The Princess Royal, spoke passionately about her involvement with the charity before going on to enjoy the racing, presenting steeple chase trainer Dan Skelton and jockey Harry Skelton with their trophies. (aht.org.uk) #3 Bisque Rosa gold ring, £30 (fruitibijoux.etsy.com)
PURCHASE OF THE MONTH The Highgrove Florilegium
#4 Kensington Rose No. 22, from £20 (mylands.co.uk)
#5 Laurent Perrier Cuvée Rose Champagne, £70 (johnlewis.com) The first Florilegium in the United Kingdom inspired by a royal patron, £12,950 (addisonpublications.com) 17
Q&A... Kevin Clark Executive head chef at The Mere Golf Resort & Spa
ALL HAIL MARKET PORTER There’s a new online foodie haven we’re loving. Market Porter is a premium online artisan market place run by Stefan Porter, a former supermarket buyer, and Nick Ford, a former tech banker with a mission to give people access to high quality independent suppliers. The initial offering is meat, charcuterie, cheese and chocolate, with a direct-to-your-door next day delivery service. The guys are still working on tracking down the best suppliers, which are added each month. There’s even an inspiration page on their website if you’re a bit stuck. (marketporter.com)
NOTEBOOK
Food & Drink PURCHASE OF THE MONTH BACK TO BLACK CUTLERY This BRAME cutlery collection offers a stylish alternative to the normal table setting. Stainless steel with a matt black finish, each item also includes a delicate deer head pattern which has been laser engraved. The line includes knives, forks, serving spoons, dessert spoons, teaspoons, cheese knives and meat knives. This set includes knife, fork, dessert spoon and teaspoon. They’re also dishwasher safe! Matt black table setting, £330 (ksl-living.fr) 18
What is your favourite food and why? Fish. I love grilled Dover sole or turbot, pan-fried with caramelised lime. My wife doesn’t like fish, so it’s my dish of choice whenever we dine out. What is your favourite ingredient and why? Anything earthy. I love earthy foods such as beetroots, parsnips, heritage carrots and tomatoes. The flavours are so vibrant, and they’re extremely versatile in cooking. I love bringing the old back into the new, which seems to be the way food is now heading. If you were marooned on a desert island, what one thing you would take with you and why? I’d take butter! I’ll use it to poach the fish I catch from the ocean and to add richness to any sauces I conjure up. It’s also a good source of fat, so should keep me going for a while longer if I’m marooned for quite some time! Kevin has already put his mark on The Mere having refreshed all of the menus on offer. We look forward to trying them out
(themereresort.co.uk)
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars
SPOTLIGHT ON... AT THE HOLLOWS WORDS: LOUISA CASTLE
I
t was date night and we were looking for somewhere new to try, it being a new year and all. A fan of the cocktails at The Suburbs, and of Hoole in general, we’d never tried the bar’s sister restaurant, At the Hollows, and now seemed the perfect time. On a busy Saturday night, we had the best spot for people-watching in one of the windows surrounded by vintage apothecary-esque decor, a scented candle and beaded candelabra – one which will appeal to the design-led eye from the start. But what about the food? Guided by executive chef Parth and owner Kingdom, we were taken through the menu – cocktail in hand, of course (gin-lovers: try the Wind in the Hollows cocktail). The ethos here is one of relaxed dining, bringing people together over small sharing plates. It’s not tapas, though there’s an amazing Iberico ham on the menu. His advice was to go for five or six plates, choosing from oyster bar, salad, vegetable, meat and fish sections, starting with the Cwmbran oysters. I’m told that the restaurant can go through more than 200 oysters in a weekend and, if they’re that popular, who are we to argue? Served with simple chopped herbs and Tabasco, they were
“My husband fell in love with the braised lamb poutine – basically Sunday roast in a pot”
fresh, silky and meaty. A piece of advice to anyone new to oysters: like any piece of meat, they should be carefully chewed. This releases the full flavour, and the juice from the shell completes the experience. The aforementioned Iberico ham melted in the mouth and was served with ricotta, melon and treacle bread, accompanied by a great little roasted butternut squash salad and some peppercorn-cured duck breast, alongside a glass of Sicilian Nero d’Avola. To follow, my husband fell in love with the braised lamb poutine – basically Sunday roast in a pot, with succulent meat and crispy potatoes – while I went for the paper white roasted cod with chorizo and creamy burrata, and softshell crab with Tyrolean potato salad. We also sampled the tempura mushrooms and duckfat mushrooms with bacon and blue cheese – both perfect for a cold evening. We never actually made it to dessert, as our small plates soon filled our eager bellies. Maybe next time... Our verdict: great spot, great food (do ask for recommendations if you’re not sure) and a wonderfully friendly team. At the Hollows, 20 Charles Street, Chester, CH2 3AZ (01244 310245; atthehollows.co.uk) 19
A taste of
THE EAST Gemma Knight catches up with chef Ken Hom, the Godfather of Cantonese Cooking, on the eve of the year of the monkey, to talk celebratory food, traditions and what lies ahead
K
en Hom has attended his fair share of Chinese New Year festivities, his earliest memories of the big celebration awash with lion dances in Chicago’s Chinatown, red envelopes filled with money and, of course, huge, lavish banquets filled with traditional foods and ruled by custom. Now aged 66 and a celebrated international chef, Ken has written more than twenty cookbooks, worked as a consultant for hotels and restaurants all over the world and cooked for presidents, celebrities and royalty – though his early childhood remains the defining characteristic of his Chinese – and culinary – identity. Born in Tucson, Arizona and raised in Chicago’s Chinese quarter, his mother was widowed when he was just eight months old, meaning that his early years were spent fully immersed in the support network of relatives and neighbours. “I think that living in Chicago’s Chinatown and seeing only Chinese people made me feel very Chinese,” he tells me. “I did not speak English until I was six years old, so until then I spoke only Chinese, ate Chinese food and thought the whole universe was Chinese! I even saw only Chinese films, and I was ten before I saw my first English movie. My family was
very typically Chinese, and my uncles – related and distant – were very protective of me and my mother, I guess because my father had died; and at least once a week we had an extended family meal together.” At the age of eleven, Ken began working in the kitchen at his uncle’s Chinese restaurant – a job which, ironically, he hated (“I thought it was slavery!”) – although he admits he enjoyed the idea of cooking. “At eleven you are never sure,” he explains, laughing as he adds “But then I love eating which made me interested in cooking. In my case, natural talent comes from greed.” Despite this fledgling interest, it was history of art which he chose to study when he left Chicago for the University of California, Berkeley; although he did help to pay his way through college by giving cooking classes at weekends, first – somewhat bizarrely – teaching Italian cuisine, then later returning to his roots and switching to Chinese dishes. From then on, his culinary career was on a clear and unwavering upward trajectory. In 1977 he was invited to join San Francisco’s new California Culinary Academy as an instructor and, in 1982, after a two-year global search, the BBC auditioned him for a Chinese cookery series. The result was the hugely successful Ken Hom’s Chinese Cookery and its companion cookbook, which soon became one of the best-selling cookbooks ever published by BBC Books, selling more than 1.5 million copies. In the thirty years since, Ken has well and truly
far left: ken hom’s aromatic duck near left: ken hom’s thai green curry opposite: ken hom images courtesy of www.wesgladwin.com
20
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature
21
conquered the culinary world with his charisma and expertise, appearing in numerous cooking series for the BBC which have been broadcast throughout the world, as well as a five-hour documentary on the history of the noodle for Korean network KBS which was sold to 23 different countries and even won the prestigious Peabody award in 2010. Most recently, Ken was seen co-presenting the 2012 BBC series Exploring China: A Culinary Adventure, in which he travelled across China and explored its food traditions with British-Taiwanese food writer and TV chef Ching-He Huang. Like Chinese all over the world, for Ken and his family the Lunar New Year festival is an annual highlight of noise and colour, celebration and tradition, with children earning red envelopes filled with money each time they wish an adult ‘happy new year’ (“Which certainly made my fortune for the year when I was a child!” Ken chuckles) and homes adorned with red decorations symbolising happiness, wealth and fortune. But perhaps Chinese New Year’s most enduring, all-pervading and emblematic characteristic is, nevertheless, its food, with an ethos that sees families gathering for days on end to talk, laugh and catch up
22
over spread upon spread of traditional dishes as mouth-watering as they are colourful. When I ask Ken how he celebrates Chinese New Year (which begins on 8 February in 2016), his answer comes quickly and in perfect endorsement of this theory: “By eating”. “I still celebrate now just as I did when I was a child,” he says “with my close friends and family, with a wonderful Chinese banquet. We eat some of my favourite dishes, like sea moss with dried oysters, steamed fish (for prosperity), crispy chicken (to bring fortune), dumplings and noodles (for longevity, so you never cut the noodles) and duck, a symbol of fidelity. I’ve spent the New Year in many different countries, but my favourite is definitely the UK. The Brits are so interested in the concept of Chinese New Year and always celebrate in style.” Although now semi-retired, Ken divides his time between France (where he has had a home since 1986), Bangkok and Rio de Janeiro – where he supervises his Michelin starred restaurant, Mee, at the Copacabana Palace Hotel – while overseeing promotion of his world-famous Ken Hom wok (of which he has sold an incredible 7 million in 62 countries), writing his memoirs and developing his latest venture: a range of cooking sauces, readycooked noodles and rice developed in collaboration with British supermarket chain Tesco. Although he insists that his dominant characteristic as one born in the year of the ox is a keen knack for “stubbornness”, I’m more inclined to side with the classically accepted attributes of honesty, ambitiousness and reliability. Ken comes across as instantly open and modest – and if earning a nickname like the Godfather of Cantonese Cooking doesn’t point to an ambitious streak, I don’t know what does. Ken Hom’s range of chilled meals is available from Tesco (kenhom.co.uk; tesco.com)
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature
KEN HOM’S CHICKEN CHOW MEIN
“A simple stir-fried noodle dish is easy, and perfect for the New Year. Keep it simple and enjoy spending time with your family and friends.” – Ken Hom Serves 4 Preparation time: 10 minutes Plus 10 minutes marinating Cooking time: 20 minutes Ingredients: 225g (8oz) dried or fresh egg noodles 4 teaspoons sesame oil 5 dried red chillis 100g (4oz) boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into fine shreds 5cm (2in) long 2 ½ teaspoons groundnut oil 1 tablespoon finely chopped garlic 50g (2oz) mangetout, finely shredded 50g (2oz) Parma ham, or cooked ham, finely shredded 2 teaspoons light soy sauce 2 teaspoons dark soy sauce 1 tablespoon Shaoxing rice wine or dry sherry 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon freshly ground white pepper ½ teaspoon sugar 3 tablespoons finely chopped spring onions For the marinade: 2 teaspoons light soy sauce 2 teaspoons Shaoxing rice wine or dry sherry 1 teaspoon sesame oil ½ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon freshly ground white pepper Cook the noodles in a large pan of boiling water 3-5 minutes, then drain and plunge them into cold
water. Drain thoroughly, toss them with three teaspoons of the sesame oil and set aside. Combine the chicken shreds with all the marinade ingredients, mix well and then leave to marinate for about 10 minutes. Heat a wok over a high heat. Add one tablespoon of the groundnut oil and, when it is very hot and slightly smoking, add the chicken shreds. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes and then transfer to a plate. Wipe the wok clean. Reheat the wok until it is very hot, and then add the remaining groundnut oil. When the oil is slightly smoking, add the garlic and stir fry for10 seconds. Then add the mangetout and ham and stir fry for about 1 minute. Add the noodles, soy sauces, rice wine or sherry, salt, pepper, sugar and spring onions. Stir fry for 2 minutes. Return the chicken and any juices to the noodle mixture. Stir fry for about 3-4 minutes or until the chicken is cooked. Add the remaining sesame oil and give the mixture a few final stirs. Turn it onto a warm platter and serve at once.
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CHINESE NEW YEAR AT TATTU Join us as we welcome the new year with a delicious feast and spectacular celebration. For more information please visit www.tattu.co.uk or call 0161 819 2060.
TATTU RESTAURANT & BAR, GARTSIDE STREET, SPINNINGFIELD S.
WWW.TATTU.CO.UK @TATTUMCR
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars
Local scene New launches and charity functions showcase the best Cheshire has to offer
A new dawn Rolls-Royce, Knutsford Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, Manchester revealed the latest model, Dawn, to the delight of VIP guests. The new drop head caused quite a stir and was the star of the show, with supporting acts from Ellie Sax, Prestons of Wilmslow and Gusto, Knutsford. (rolls-roycemotorcars-manchester.co.uk)
25
Carden Park Hotel, Winner Large Hotel of the Year
Chester Cathedral - Winner Large Visitor Attraction of the Year
Crewe Hall, Winner Excellence in Business Tourism
Grosvenor Park Open Air Theatre, Winner Tourism Experience or Event of the Year
Heald Country House Boutique Barns, Winner Self-Catering Holiday Provider of the Year
Celebrating Cheshire Chester Racecourse Jim Hancock, former political editor for Granada and BBC Northwest, hosted the The 11th annual Marketing Cheshire Awards celebrating all that the region has to offer. The awards celebrate excellence and outstanding achievement by local businesses and individuals with many of the winners going on to represent Cheshire at the national VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2016 which will take place during English Tourism Week, 5th – 13th March 2016. The event celebrated Cheshire’s booming visitor economy which was worth £2.5 billion and welcomed 45.67 million visitors in 2014. (marketingcheshire.co.uk) The Royal Oak, Winner Small Hotel of the Year
Islands at Chester Zoo, Winner Best Tourism Marketing Project of the Year
Heald Country House Boutique Barns, Winner Bed & Breakfast of the Year
Lesley Tait, Stockley Farm Park, Winner Outstanding Customer Service Award
Piste Wine Bar & Restaurant Winner Restaurant of the Year
Lion Salt Works, Winner Best Newcomer to the Tourism Industry
The Cholmondeley Arms, Winner Tourism Pub of the Year
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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars
Charity for children Hill Top House, Prestbury Guests from Cheshire and Merseyside donned their posh frocks and black ties for a charity ball hosted by estate agents Holmes Naden in aid of Alder Hey Children’s Charity. Over £5,000 was raised, thanks to the support of local businesses and generous guests. (alderheycharity.org; holmesnaden.com)
City Sightseeing Chester, Winner Small Visitor Attraction of the Year
“The awards were a true celebration of the wealth of innovative, creative and dynamic businesses which support Cheshire’s growing visitor economy. Many of the winners from tonight’s awards will go on to represent Cheshire at the national VisitEngland Awards for Excellence and we wish them all the very best of luck.” - Katrina Michel, chief executive, Marketing Cheshire
The Golf Team, The Mere Golf Resort & Spa, Winner Team of the Year
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AZ of
Romance Whether you’re a smitten suitor looking to impress your beloved or a befuddled bride searching for inspiration, The Cheshire Magazine has the ultimate guide to the art of romance
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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature
Bubbles
Anniversary Whether this is your first or your fiftieth, take every anniversary as an opportunity to show you appreciate each other. If you give gifts, make them personal, referencing something that only the two of you know.
Date night
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Chocolate
Two age-old staples of romance are, of course, flowers and chocolates – but for wooing purposes, only the best will do, so opt for something classic, pretty and luxe like the Godiva Mousse Meringue selection.
We’re all sick of being told to ‘make time for romance’, but it’s an adage which endures because it’s as true as it is hackneyed. Take it in turns to arrange something: a restaurant, a film, a home-cooked meal – it all shows effort and affection.
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Nothing says romance like champagne, so whether it’s an engagement soiree or date-night on the sofa, be sure to have a few bottles on ice. And finding a diamond ring at the bottom of a glass never gets old either.
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Engagement party A chance to let your hair down and celebrate before all the planning begins, Cheshire is awash with fabulous venues for dinner, drinks or full-blown extravaganzas – Knutsford’s Belle Epoque being a tried and tested favourite.
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Always romantic, but we can all spot the wilting look of a last-minute petrol station bouquet. Luxury florists (like Royal Warrant-holders Moyses Stevens; moysesflowers.co.uk) specialise in overblown romantic gestures of the floral kind.
Groom You get the dress, the diamond, the something old, new, borrowed and blue – so why not give your groom something a bit special and sentimental for the big day? Inscribed cufflinks are always a nice touch. 29
Honeymoon Pick something simple that you’ll both enjoy, and you won’t go far wrong. For inspiration, see our round-up of the world’s top ten romantic destinations (page 116).
Jewellery Clichéd? Absolutely. But guaranteed to earn innumerable brownie points? Unquestionably. For something quirky and striking, we think the new range from Jade Jagger is the perfect way to say ‘I love you’. (jadejagger.com)
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Invitations Your wedding stationery will likely be your guests’ first taste of the event you’ll create, so make sure it reflects the themes of love and beauty at its core. Bespoke illustrations and vintage styles are currently all the rage.
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Lingerie Whether a gift or a self-indulgence, never underestimate the value of really beautiful lingerie. Our current favourite is the Sophia bra and brief set in coral by American brand Le Mystère. (lemystere.co.uk)
Kids Children enhance many aspects of life, but romance is rarely one of them. Hire a babysitter and have a date night or, for private events, look to brand new Cheshire-based childcare experts The Cheshire Crèche. (thecheshiremobilecreche.co.uk)
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Mini-break Life so often gets in the way of romance, so it’s important to escape for some one-on-one time occasionally. Nip away to a local hotel (like the beautiful ABode) and press pause on reality for a night or two. (abodemanchester. co.uk; abodechester.co.uk)
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If you want to buy your loved one jewellery, whether it’s a rose gold pendant for her or a braded bangle for him, we love the idea of making it extra special with an engraving (available at most jewellers).
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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature
Perfume Whether it’s narrowing it down to a single scent for your wedding day or spritzing before a dinner date, a soft, inviting fragrance adds an intangible layer of mystique to your ensemble. Our current favourites are included in Jo Malone’s Luxury Trousseau, exclusive to Harrods. (£620, harrods.com)
Outdoors
For a summer wedding, or to add a sense of the exotic to an engagement or anniversary party, embrace the outdoors with one of the luxury, romantic, Asia-inspired set ups from the Raj Tent Club. (rajtentclub.com)
Questions Will you marry me? Shall we move in together? Let’s be exclusive? Relationships are filled with landmark questions, so be sure to enjoy every single one – they’ll probably be the most romantic moments of your life.
Rings When it comes to engagement rings, only perfection will do – and while it’s romantic for a groom-to-be to pick out his lady’s diamond, with so much choice out there, we rather like the idea of choosing together after he pops the question.
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Anniversary dinners, nuptials and engagement parties can be stressful, so we recommend enlisting the help of an event planner such as Cheshire guru Kate Park and her team of expert events elves. (kateparkevents.co.uk)
Start your big day by arriving in style, whether that means going classic with a Bentley or Rolls-Royce, vintage, fairytale with a horse-drawn carriage or quirky, with a suped-up camper van…or even a helicopter. 31
Feature | The CHESHIRE Magazine
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Ushers As a groom, it’s important to manage your men – make sure their tuxes are matching and fitted, and be sure to pick someone responsible as best man; after all, he’ll be in charge of the rings – and keeping you sane.
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Wedding cake So many choices – ruffles, colours, fillings, even cupcakes – but our favourite wedding cake trend this year is without doubt that of hand-painted icing illustrations. Whimsical, delicate and creative: perfect.
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Vacation There is nothing more romantic than escaping reality and discovering a far-flung corner of the globe together – this summer, how about hiring a classic car and taking a roadtrip through the Italian countryside?
E-xperiences
All the gifts in the world often can’t compete with the limitless bonding power of a shared experience. This year, concentrate on making memories – be they great or small – which are yours and your loved one’s alone.
Yacht Even Maldivian villas suspended above water don’t provide the privacy and freedom of sailing per due. Charter your own yacht, stock up on champagne, pack only swimwear. The oceans are your oyster. (cheshireyachts.com) 32
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(Bride)zilla
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Don’t let tension and anxiety build up and turn your special day into a nightmare. Take time to de-stress whenever you can – a glass of wine, a bubble bath and a soothing scented candle can work miracles.
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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars
TAY L O R TA L K
Inspiring romance
Ever at the forefront of the next big thing, Liz Taylor believes that Brits are leading the way when it comes to romance-inspired parties
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e went through a phase of emulating the ‘next big thing’ from the US, with Sweet 16s and, of course, the prom. But no longer. Now the UK leads the way, and Brits are definitely getting more ambitious when it comes to romance too. I planned an amazing winter picnic for one couple getting engaged, with a wicker picnic hamper brimming with bite-size delicacies; chimineas surround blankets and over-sized Alice In Wonderland Fine Bone China Teacup & cushions – the perfect place to snuggle, champagne chilling, candles Saucer, £29 (furnish.co.uk/) bathing the setting in light, fire pit for warmth and a violinist for atmosphere. Simple, but it transformed their garden into a sumptuous, romantic setting… and she said yes. Take inspiration from something your loved one enjoys and transform it into a romantic event. Music? Try the amazing Hallé Valentine’s Concert (14 Feb). Book a chauffeur and car, champagne beforehand and a gorgeous dinner afterwards. Sports? Get executive tickets for a local sporting event, with cocktails at Cloud 23 at Hilton Deansgate Manchester or the lovely Elixir bar, a flask of hot chocolate with brandy for a chilly half time, and a private ‘sports inspired dinner’ catered for at home afterwards. The same can be said for weddings, baby showers and sip-and-see parties (where the family meets the new baby). Parties in the USA love to use bold themes, and although I hate themes, I often find myself interpreting a client’s dream – particularly for a wedding. And yes, I use movies, books and the latest trends for inspiration – but I never copy. Unique. Inspired. Fun. That’s what it’s all about. Take Alice in Wonderland. I created two parties with this magical inspiration, each different: bright and colourful in homage to the original film; then dark and gothic for the Johnny Depp remake. Party inspiration from film is always popular – Downton Abbey made vintage vogue; Bond gets resurgence with every 007 incarnation – and the classics are eternally loved when it comes to parties. I notice that two of the best for children’s events are on stage – Shrek at The Lowry and Mary Poppins at The Palace Theatre – and have organised my fair share of Shrek green face painting! Star Wars has been the big ask for the early part of this year, and we even transformed a ballroom in London into a mysterious planet, complete with star ships and storm troopers, immersing children in a fantasy world. Fabulous. From catwalk to movies, fairytales to television, wherever you get ideas for your parties, go beyond the obvious. Don’t be a mimic – be inspired! Taylor Lynn Corporation (TLC) (0161 876 6266; tlc-ltd.co.uk)
Merino And Mohair Wool Blue Throw Michaela, £79 (dawanda.com)
Alice in Wonderland Floral Mini Cupcake Teapot Stand, £3.95 for 6 (luckandluck.co.uk)
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YOUR DREAM WEDDING
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hotel golf spa
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature
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Romance in style: #9
Vintage
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Period-inspired pieces are all the rage, so throw yourself into nostalgic fantasy and have a fling with vintage
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#1 ‘Fiorella’ suspension lamp, £480, Nigel Coates (nigelcoates.com) #2 True love valentine’s card, £2.99, Chase & Wonder (chaseandwonder.com) #3 GibsonBespoke Bacall gown, £1,200 (etsy.com) #4 Anemoon wrap blouse, £270 and Bloem skirt, £490, WtR (wtrlondon.com) #5 Splendia fragrance (from La GemmeImperiali collection), £231 for 100ml, Bulgari (harrods.com) #6 Gold diamante clutch, £32 (rockmyvintage.co.uk) #7 Gold side band tiara, £75, Amanda Wyatt (amandawyatt.com) #8 Panier pique-nique Palais Royal, €165, Les Jardins de la Comtesse (lesjardinsdelacomtesse.com) #9 18ct White gold princess cut halo diamond set pendant, £2,895, 18ct, Steven Stone (stevenstone.co.uk) #10 Cream and zinc filigree metal tea light holder, £3.95, Live Laugh Love Ltd (livelaughlove.co.uk) 37
Feature | The CHESHIRE Magazine
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Romance in style:
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Bold & Beautiful #9
Make a statement and opt for passionate, striking pieces, leaving no-one in any doubt that love is all you need
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#1 Hawaii Kawai nail laquers, £36 each, Christian Louboutin (christianlouboutin.com) #2 Vintage Art Deco shell teal clutch bag, £38 (itsvintagedarling.com) #3 Adje pleat dress, £550, WtR (wtrlondon.com) #4 ‘Alessandro M.’ and ‘Anna G.’ corkscrews, from £26, Alessandro Mendini in collaboration with (RED) for Alessi (alessi.com) #5 Heidi Klim Intimates, Zoe collection, from £22 (houseoffraser.co.uk) #6 Quality Treat earrings, £35 (etsy.com) #7 Cotton Love Tub in lemongrass, £565, Oliver Bonas (oliverbonas.com) #8 Christian Louboutin Gwalior Pump, £525 (selfridges.com) #9 18ct white gold oval Rubellite and Diamond pave set dress ring, £6,950 and 18ct white gold pear shaped Rubellite and diamond drop earrings, £11,950, Steven Stone (stevenstone.co.uk) #10 Elegance pink/grey silk cushion, £62, LauraLoves (lauralovesdesign.co.uk) 38
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature
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Romance in style:
Wellgroomed
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Leave ladies swooning in your wake with this fabulous collection of suave, stylish gentleman’s accessories #6 #8
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#1 Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona, £POA, Rolex (rolex.com) #2 Hugo Boss tan leather holdall, £500 (houseoffraser.co.uk) #3 The new Orpheus, €50,000, Sennheiser (sennheiser.com) #4 Tie, socks and pocket square, £45 (swankymaison.com) #5 Burlington Collection backpack, £895, Smythson (smythson.com) #6 The Fourth Son, black Chelsea boots £200, Sons of London (sonsoflondon.com) #7 Textured metal cufflinks, £135, Mulberry (mulberry.com) #8 Classic double-ended bowtie, £65, Turnbull & Asser (turnbullandasser.co.uk) #9 Hardy Amies single-breasted wool-blend overcoat, £550, Selfridges (selfridges.com) 41
quarry bank mill, styal Andrew Keher Photography
LOOKING FOR LOVE Cheshire is a beautiful county, full of hidden gems and perfect places. Inspired by the love of her county, Jemima Lovejoy investigates the romantic side of life
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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature
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ery recently I was chatting with the lovely Julie Hadfield, superintendent registrar at Cheshire East Council. Previously working as an event manager at Crewe Hall for nine years, this is a lady who knows all about romance in Cheshire, and the passion she dedicates to her position is apparent. “It’s such a privilege to be a part of a couple’s special day,” she says. “As registrars, we’re closer to them than anyone else in the ceremony room. We get to see that ‘I’ve just won the world’ grin – or that quiver of the bottom lip – before anyone else who is sharing the day. It’s such an honour. “Our first role is obviously to ensure that all the legalities are done correctly. Our second, to ensure that the couple enjoys every single second of their ceremony. There’s only one chance to get it right, and if we can help or advise we’ll be there. One piece of advice I will give, is that no question is a daft question, you just don’t know the answer yet. If you hadn’t already guessed, I love my job, and I think I speak for the team when I say that they feel the same. We’d have to be on our death beds to miss a wedding! “Wedding celebrations bring in about £30 million a year to Cheshire East, and it keeps going up. There’s a huge percentage of people who come into the county to get married as well. “I may be a bit biased, but we are so lucky with what we have on our doorstep. There are some fantastic, unique venues, and then we’ve the M6 (love it or hate it), which couldn’t be better placed and makes us fantastically accessible. “A lot of couples come home to the county for their weddings, and many simply fall in love with a venue or location here. Then there’s no stopping them: there are two things you don’t argue with a bride about: the venue and the dress! “Barns are big and I don’t think that’s just a passing fad. We’ve posh barns and rustic barns, and there’s new barns being approved just as quickly as people are booking them. “Unique is definitely a theme. And the market is showing that there’s always room for more. So if anyone has a great spot, let me know!” (yourceremony.org.uk)
TOP MOST ROMANTIC PLACES: #1 Combermere Abbey Take your vows surrounded by the world’s only fruit tree maze and stay over in the gloriously restored North Wing. (combermereabbey.co.uk) #2 Oakfield House Combine Victorian splendour with over 12,000 special animal guests at Chester Zoo. The evening safari is a great place to propose (chesterzoo.org) #3 White Nancy Explore a short scenic walk with a strange landmark at the pinnacle and propose as the Cheshire countryside rolls out beneath you. (theaa.com/walks) #4 Blue Planet Aquarium Why not don full scuba gear and dive into a tank bearing your romantic message? (blueplanetaquarium.com)
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Feature | The CHESHIRE Magazine
A CHESHIRE LOVE STORY Whilst researching romance in Cheshire, I was inspired by some amazing letters from Ernest William Greg (great grandson of Quarry Bank founder, Samuel Greg) who was very much in love with his intended. The amazing archive team at Quarry Bank shared them with me and, while love letters may well be a thing of the past, I just had to share them with you. Her name was Marian, although she was more commonly known as May, and she was the daughter of a businessman. He was worried that her family would not approve of him, but this proved unfounded; in a letter to his father dated March 1887 he writes,‘The family have taken me in as one of themselves and Mrs Cross [May’s mother] and I now get on very well.’ Even at that time, it was clearly important to impress your future mother-in-law! Of his beloved May he writes, ‘May grows more charming and sweet every additional hour that I get to know her.’ He also writes of having to going away, ‘She [May] is a gem. It will be awful leaving her, but the journey will do me good in every way and when I come back we shall both feel that it has been a good thing…It will be rather a romantic love affair, this of ours, when all is taken into consideration.’ They were married less than a year after this letter was sent, when he was 25 and she was 24. They had five children and their youngest son, Alec Carlton Greg, donated Quarry Bank to the National Trust in 1939. (nationaltrust.org.uk/quarry-bank)
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Your Day With A Touch Of Mere
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The heart of
MANCHESTER As Fiona Gasper, MBE, plans to leave the Royal Exchange Theatre to join John E. McGrath as executive director at Manchester International Festival (MIF), Natalie Anglesey looks back across her inspiring career
“I BELOW: MAXINE PEAKE IN the SKRIKER; FIONA WITH Prince Edward at Bruntwood Prize Giving: opposite: Fiona Gasper by Jonathan Keenan
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f you want something done – ask a busy person!’ That’s certainly a true saying as far as Fiona Gasper, MBE is concerned. After five and a half years as executive director, she’s bidding the Royal Exchange Theatre – and a role that’s been much more than just a job – a fond farewell. “I first came here from Rutland as a student at Manchester Polytechnic, as it was called then. Although I didn’t want to act, I wanted to be part of the thriving creative scene here. Between studies, I was an usherette at the Palace Theatre and eventually became front of house supervisor. “Living in Manchester for so long and being happily involved at the Exchange, I thought there were limited possibilities available elsewhere, until I saw the MIF job advertised and knew I had to go for it. I’d worked harmoniously in the past with John McGrath many years ago at Contact and knew
this was going to be a very exciting opportunity. I’m really looking forward to it, although I’m obviously sad to leave such a talented team at the Exchange.” As Fiona reminisces about the last few years, it’s clear that some productions have made a lasting impression. “Our 40th anniversary is coming up, and I suppose that’s a good time to leave the Exchange in such good shape. I loved our exciting production of Sweeney Todd, which was the first time we had heard such an operatic score in the theatre, and of course most people enjoyed the fun of Little Shop of Horrors. But The Skriker with Maxine Peake, which was our collaboration with MIF that year, was just stunning and left a mark on most who saw it.” During her time at this iconic Manchester theatre, Fiona’s impact has been hugely significant. She’s steered the organisation through a major restructure, including the appointment of a new chair of the board, Ben Caldwell, and its move to
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Art & Culture
“Although I didn’t want to act, I wanted to be part of the thriving creative scene in Manchester”
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Art & Culture | The CHESHIRE Magazine sweeney todd at the royal exchange by Jonathan Keenan
a sole artistic directorship under Sarah Frankcom. Fiona will remain at the Exchange full time until mid-February, when she will share her time between both organisations until joining MIF full time at the end of March. “The Royal Exchange is a truly unique theatre and it’s been an absolute pleasure to be its executive director,” she says. “We’ve been through many changes during my time here and it has been hugely exciting and rewarding to work with Sarah and a brilliant staff during that journey. “The theatre is brave, bold and ambitious, and Sarah’s vision and determination to push the boundaries of what kind of theatre the Exchange can be is inspiring. I look forward to seeing the company flourish. I have relished my time in helping to shape the Exchange into an organisation which is hugely relevant to theatre-making, in all its forms, in Manchester and nationally.” Fiona’s previous roles include executive director for Contact and executive producer of Liverpool’s 2008 European Capital of Culture programme (2004-2009), for which she was awarded the MBE in 2009 by HRH Prince Charles. “When I got the letter I nearly fell over! I was so surprised and had to read it a couple of times to make sure,” Fiona laughs. “More recently I met HRH Prince Edward again at the Bruntwood prize-giving for new writing, as he’s the patron of the Royal Exchange.” Fiona has worked in the cultural sector around the UK for the past 30 years in a range of full-time roles. She became house manager at Nottingham
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Playhouse, and then at Watford Palace Theatre, before returning north to the newly-opened West Yorkshire Playhouse. She’s also been a consultant for several companies, including English National Opera at London’s Coliseum, Youth Music, Manchester City Council, the Royal Shakespeare Company, Walk the Plank, More Music and the Whalley Range All Stars. But home has always been Manchester, although her busy life is divided between here and Halifax, where her partner lives. Fiona is also a board member for XTRAX, located in Hulme, which supports inspirational outdoor performance, and IF at Milton Keynes (a biannual multi-arts festival of extraordinary events in unusual places and public spaces). She is also a board member for Manchester’s business improvement district – Heart of Manchester. Now she’s looking forward to new challenges. “For the time being MIF will stay in its interim office at The Parsonage, until work is completed in our new home at The Factory. John’s priority is organising the exciting new season for the next MIF, which I’m sure will worth waiting for – it’s all incredibly thrilling. We will aim to maintain the Festival’s high integrity, welcoming the international artists performing here and trying to reach the local people and visiting tourists alike. During this transition period I will be concentrating on my role here at the Exchange and supporting the handover to my successor, before I set up home at MIF. Wherever I work I’ve always seen my job as being an enabler – to allow artistic excellence to flourish.” (royalexchange.co.uk; mif.co.uk)
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Brafa If you’re looking for an excuse to escape to the continent for the weekend and pick up a few beautiful trinkets for the home while you’re at it, head to the 60th annual Brussels Art Fair in the beautiful Belgian capital. Thanks to a well-planned reconfiguration, BRAFA 2016 will welcome more leading galleries than ever before; bringing an even greater diversity to the already well-represented event, now boasting a total of 136 exhibitors and some 20 specialties, covering a rich array of artistic style, origins and periods. Brussels Art Fair, 23-31 January (brafa.be)
literary itinerary
Walter Leblanc Torions 40F 144 Polyvinyl on black
Arts & Culture Natalie Angelsey and Gemma Knight bring you not-to-miss shows and news from the world of the arts Shrek the musical
Daddy Mcguinness One of the country’s most popular comedians, Paddy McGuinness, star of ITV’s Take Me Out and Phoenix Nights, returns with best friend Peter Kay for his first stand-up comedy tour since 2011. After numerous sell-out tours and best-selling DVDs, Paddy is raring to return to where he belongs – on stage, making people laugh. “I’m really looking forward to being back on tour; I’ve missed it,” he said. “I’ve got a great show planned. In Daddy McGuinness, amongst many other things, I’ll be sharing several stories about becoming a first-time dad.” The Lowry, 24 & 25 February (thelowry.com) 50
The award-winning Shrek the Musical has been seen on stage by nearly a million people in London alone. Based on the story and characters from William Steig’s book, and the Academy Award-winning feature film, it now comes to the North West. This production stars Dean Chisnall as the jolly green giant and Bronte Barbie as his beloved Princess Fiona. This fun-filled production is directed by Nigel Harman, who won an Olivier for his portrayal of Lord Farquaad in the West End. “This show is very special to me, with its dizzying blend of great characters and hilarious script,” he said. “There was no way I was going to say no to the challenge of realising the production.” Shrek the Musical, The Lowry, 2-20 February (thelowry.com)
Dean Chisnall (Shrek), Idriss Kargbo (Donkey) and Faye Brookes (Princess Fiona). Photo by Helen Maybanks
© Jean-Philippe Delhomme
When air travel was made commercially available to all, it was regarded as the height of sophistication – this was an era when fashion, politics and attitudes were becoming revolutionised, and flying became a part of this new and glamorous generation. Assouline has released an elegant and informative new tome entitled The Art of Flying which is dedicated to all aspects of air travel from its very roots through to the engineering of the future. The book documents the whole in-flight experience, including cabin-crew uniforms designed by Dior, private jets, celebrity passengers and extravagant interiors. In the modern world, it’s often easy to forget how lucky we are to have such advanced technology so readily available, but Assouline’s coffee-table read is bound to make you fall in love with flying all over again. The Art of Flying, £115 Text by Josh Condon, published by Assouline (assouline.com)
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Art & Culture
Anne-Marie-Duff playing Lizzie Holroyd photograph Manuel Harlan
Husbands and sons Award-winning director Marianne Elliott returns to the Royal Exchange, where her father Michael was founding artistic director, with her acclaimed production of Husbands and Sons, adapted from the works of D H Lawrence. This major co-production with The National Theatre stars the excellent Anne-Marie Duff, whose television appearances include Elizabeth, The Virgin Queen, Shameless and Suffragettes. Interweaving three of Lawrence’s greatest dramas (The Daughter-In-Law, A Collier’s Friday Night and The Widowing of Mrs Holroyd), Husbands and Sons introduces us to the now-vanished world in which Lawrence grew up. The village of Eastwood sits in the shadow of the great Brinsley pit. Its women are wives, mothers and daughters trying to hold their families and their souls together in a community built on manual labour, working class pride, and fierce tenderness. “Husbands and Sons is a story about the uncomplicated identity of men clashing with the trapped, frustrated and aspiring souls of these women,” says Marianne. “I know the Royal Exchange of old; I trained here if you like! It remains, in my mind, the greatest space for theatre, and I’m extremely excited to be returning.” Husbands and Sons, 19 February-19 March, Royal Exchange Theatre (0161 833 983; royalexchange.co.uk)
Spinningfields success The beautiful art installation by artist Liz West left its place on Crown Square in Spinningfields on 6 January, following a triumphant 6-week sojourn, bringing joy to the many thousands of passing pedestrians. The installation, entitled Through No. 3, captured light and colour in a 6 metre-long prism especially designed as a piece of public sculpture, illuminating Spinningfields in the run-up to Christmas and fledgling days of the new year. The sculpture was officially unveiled on 25 November by Liz herself and Kwong Lee, director of Castlefield Gallery who worked in partnership with Allied London to commission the Manchester-based artist to create an art installation “Making your way inside the multi-coloured corridor through either side of the structure, visitors saw the world around them transformed by saturate colour,” Liz explained. “The coloured barrier between the outside and inside created a multi-coloured striped cloak and distortion in an array of different hues, transforming the usual colourations and appearance of the outside environment.” 51
Art & Culture | The CHESHIRE Magazine
PRIZE LOTs
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IMAGE COURTESY OF BONHAMS
IMAGE COURTESY OF SOTHEBY’S
#1 German gilt-bronze mounted sculptural drinking horn This month sees Sotheby’s auction an eclectic collection of items from the property of royal and aristocratic European estates. One such noble family is the Princely House of Bismarck, of which Otto von Bismarck was a cult political figure in the 1800s. This intricately sculpted drinking horn is likely to have been made in Berlin, and belonged to the Bismarck family during the later years of Otto’s life. Estimated value £4,000-£6,000, Of Royal and Noble Descent at Sotheby’s London, 19 January (sothebys.com)
#2 The dance of the nymphs by Edouard Bisson Edouard Bisson gained popularity at the end of the 19th century with his paintings of the beautiful ladies of the Belle Époque era. In a break from tradition, this oil painting depicts an ethereal scene
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IMAGE COURTESY OF CHRISTIE’S IMAGES LTD 2015
of suspended, dancing nymphs. However, Bisson’s dreamily soft palette, flowing brushstrokes and stunning use of light remain recognisable in what is a simply glorious piece of art. Estimated value £4,000-£6,000, 19th Century European Art at Christie’s London, 20 January (christies.com)
#3 Early 20th century diamond ring The Jewellery sale at Bonham’s is a treasure trove of unusual pieces, and this month the striking shape of this diamond ring has caught our eye. The ring is estimated to be from the early 1900s: an era of decorative style, soft curved lines and creative innovation. The central stone is approximately 1.50 carats but, with a piece like this, its true significance lies in the fetching Art Nouveau design. Estimated value £2,500-£3,000, Jewellery sale at Bonhams London, 27 January (bonhams.com)
Promotion | The CHESHIRE Magazine
A symbol of eternity You’ve found your soulmate, now find the ring of your dreams
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arlchristopher has experience in the design and craftsmanship of bespoke jewellery since 1979. We opened our flagship store in St Helen’s, Merseyside, and have steadily developed an unrivalled reputation for quality and service, not to mention a growing client base across the north of England, with four beautiful stores in Glossop, Southport, Chester and Congleton. During this time, the unique masterpieces of Carlchristopher have defined style and helped celebrate great love stories. Finding your soulmate is a landmark time in anyone’s life, and at Carlchristopher we are here to help you every step of the way, from engagement to marriage and far beyond. We cater for customers both locally and regionally, placing prime importance on providing a much more pleasurable and personally tailored shopping experience than can be found elsewhere in the region. Last month, we spoke about choosing and creating the perfect engagement ring, a wonderful opportunity to create something which really reflects and embodies your relationship. Don’t forget about your wedding ring though; the next chapter in your story together. By choosing a Carlchristopher, custom-made wedding ring, you’ll know it’s been individually
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hand-crafted, using only the finest materials, at our on-site workshop in our Chester store. No need to compromise on style, fit or design; you are in safe hands with our expert goldsmiths, who are both highly skilled and creative. We specialise in creating wedding rings to complement the most unusually shaped engagement rings, so don’t be shy when it comes to pushing the boundaries and really indulging your imagination. At Carlchristopher we take great pride in our work and place a strong emphasis on elegant design, fine materials and attention to detail. Let us take your ideas and transform them into an exquisite piece which you will treasure for years. Why not call in for inspiration or meet with one of our specialist advisors for a private consultation. A dedicated team is here to guide you through the whole process, then find or handcraft the perfect ring to surpass your expectations. The circle of a wedding band is a symbol of eternity: no beginning and no end. Fashioned with love, for those you love. A Carlchristopher wedding ring evokes your emotions, creating memories of love, for life. Carlchristopher Makers of Fine Jewellery, 38 Northgate Street, Chester, CH1 2HA (01244 329923; carlchristopher.com)
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Collection
Rock around the clock
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ach year, Harry Winston partners with some of the most creative minds in independent watchmaking to produce an extraordinary, limited-edition timepiece. In 2015, the company collaborated with ex-Greubel Forsey employee Franck Orny and Johnny Girardin, previously of Patek Philippe. The result was the Opus 14. Inspired by 1950s America, the watch houses a patented miniaturised jukebox mechanism, where four discs display local time, GMT time, the date and a star bearing the signature of Mr Harry Winston. Note, too, the vinyl-style finishes on the watch’s dials. Opus 14, £327,800, Harry Winston (harrywinston.com)
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Jewellery news
WORDS: OLIVIA SHARPE
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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Collection
All ears Post-Christmas is the time to pinch pennies, but this is often when we are most in need of some retail therapy to get over the winter blues. Fortunately for us, since launching its first store in 2012, Cadenzza has been committed to providing customers with trend-led fashion jewellery that won’t break the bank. Along with its wealth of luxury fashion brands – from Azzaro to Oscar de la Renta – Cadenzza also stocks its own private label, and the latest pieces from the A/W15 Elementary collection include a number of covetable ear jackets, one of the latest jewellery statements to hit the industry. Arriving in rose, yellow gold and rhodium-plated styles and starting from just £59, they’re music to our ears. (cadenzza.com)
Clear as crystal
Monkey business
It was the Ancient Greeks who believed that crystals have spiritual healing properties. While The Cheshire Magazine team is slightly dubious as to the restorative power of stones, we can at least admit that Noor Fares’ new jewellery line, Krystallos, has renewed our faith in the power of fine jewellery to lift our spirits. The name of the capsule collection is taken from the Greek word meaning ‘ice’ and comprises an array of precious stones – from white and rose quartz to amethysts and lapis lazuli – that have been set into geometric pendants, earrings and rings. Krystallos collection, £3,000 to £8,000 (noorfares.com)
2016 is the year of the monkey in Chinese astrology, and jewellers have paid tribute to the animal with witty, inventive and playful designs. Known for her whimsical pieces, Lydia Courteille has created the Mono ring, which features a monkey’s head carved in 18-karat yellow gold and ornately decorated with green tsavorites, orange sapphires, amethysts and diamonds. Meanwhile, Spanish brand Carrera y Carrera has designed a number of new earrings, our favourite of which presents a monkey dangling mischievously on either earring while holding a bunch of pink opals. (carreraycarrera.com; lydiacourteille.com)
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DIAMONDS
are forever
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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Collection
All jewellery purchases are significant, but none are treated more reverentially than choosing an engagement ring. From popular designs to individualised bespoke pieces, Charlotte Phillips talks to the team at David M Robinson about their wealth of experience and happy memories of working with clients to find that perfect ring
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hoosing an engagement ring is personal and evocative, reflecting a moment in time and the union of two people. “Your engagement ring will be possibly the most important and symbolic jewellery purchase you make in your lifetime,” says Sara Rickwood, who works for David M Robinson in Manchester. And it’s the combination of “trust, knowledgeable staff and a glass of champagne or two,” that creates a memorable experience and the selection of the perfect ring, Sara says. A couple may walk in, see the perfect ring, and buy it as it is, keeping setting, stone and metal intact. They could walk out of the store with it on her finger that day. When it comes to general preferences, Sara says a “classic platinum round brilliant-cut diamond with an elegant twist has been very popular... possibly because the twist enables you to see the diamond visually from all angles, and the cut and clarity together create a beautiful sparkle.” Alisha Duffy, manager of the Liverpool branch, elaborates on popular choices. “Fashion and trends change with diamond rings
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Collection | The CHESHIRE Magazine
“the majority is still the guy nervously visiting the and sometimes you can place a ring in a certain showroom and doing his homework.” era; however traditional single diamonds are classic The team knows what a special moment they are and never date,” she says. “We have seen a rise participating in. “The David M Robinson service is recently in diamond shoulders and halo, and more special because frankly, it’s our passion to make the rings in 18ct yellow gold rather than platinum.” most elegant and beautifully designed rings we can,” Another engagement ring option is the bespoke says managing director John Robinson. “We don’t process. Sometimes, customers want to use a family think about much else. I suspect we are guilty of heirloom or something that has been sitting in a getting immersed in the excitement of the occasion jewellery box for years. The skilled sales team and goldsmiths at David M Robinson have worked with a with the client too, after all you’re popping the BIG question, not the small question!” In fact, says Alisha, variety of stones and cuts, and are able to offer one client even proposed right in the David M innovative ideas to repurpose the original diamond Robinson store on South and gold, or design John Street in Liverpool. It something from scratch. was, she says, “A perfect Dawn Welch is the afternoon, with lots of Master goldsmith in champagne.” Chester. “I feel it’s best John Robinson An engagement ring is just for myself to sit with the the start of a relationship, clients to discuss ideas, though. Angela Duffy works and then, if needed, I in sales in Chester. “The most rewarding part of my do a design sheet,” she says. She goes on, “Once role is my clients returning to see me time and time chosen, we can make the complete ring, or if the again,” she says, “from bringing the fiancé in to meet client prefers they can view the ring in stages.” That me, then choosing their wedding bands. We offer a way, Dawn says, the client feels involved and lifetime cleaning and stone-checking guarantee, free adjustments can be made along the way. of charge.” “I feel it is very important to find out details of Nicky adds, “We develop close relationships with our the future fiancé,” says repairs manager Nicky customers through the purchase of an engagement ring Owen, “so you can relate to her and find out her and it leads on to future purchases of wedding and likes and dislikes -- for example what shape of stone would she prefer, would she like something delicate, anniversary gifts -- even watches for the groom to wear on his special day.” In fact, Angela has even been invited or chunky and modern?” Nicky says. Then, a variety to weddings of those she helped with the engagement of rings is brought out: “Some along the lines of ring purchase – and, she says, the intimate process what he described, and some he may have not even comes full-circle when “they return a few years later with thought about,” Nicky explains. their newborn and choose an eternity ring.” While David M Robinson has seen an increase in couples shopping together for the ring, Alisha says (davidmrobinson.co.uk)
“I suspect we are guilty of getting immersed in the excitement of the occasion” -
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Style | The CHESHIRE Magazine
Moon Walk N
eil Armstrong and his Apollo 11 crew were not your most obvious style icons, and yet, the boots that they wore on their successful expedition to the moon gave rise to the first ‘moon boot’ courtesy of an Italian winter boots company, founded in 1969 by Tecnica Group. Fast forward more than four decades and the futuristic shoe has been given a luxury makeover by Jimmy Choo. Comprising eight different styles, the collection continues to evoke the original design, but has been updated to include premium fabrics and materials, ranging from shearling to fox fur and crystals. Whichever pair you opt for, you can be sure that they will keep your feet nice and snug this winter. Moon Boot in classic patent and fabric with crystals and stars, £675; Moon Boot in classic mirror leather and shiny fabric, £495 (jimmychoo.com)
Photography: Jimmy Choo x Moon Boot® collaboration
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BROADBENTS Since 1903
Masai | Sahara | Frank Lyman | Eugen Klein | Gerry Weber | Latte | Piccadilly | Olsen | Adini | Robell | Michaela Louisa ...and more
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Let it snow Nothing quite exudes effortless elegance like an outfit by Chloé, so we’re thrilled that the fashion house has created a snow capsule collection available exclusively at Net-a-Porter. The range is perfect for keeping cosy while looking incredibly cool on and off the slopes, as demonstrated by Chloé girl and fashion darling Veronika Heilbrunner. Inspired by the glamour of the French Alps and giving a nod to the 1970s, the après-ski collection is small but perfectly formed, featuring cashmere knits in two-colour block designs, shearling-lined parkas and the sophisticated Georgia waist bag. Chloé Snow Capsule collection, available exclusively at Net-a-Porter (net-a-porter.com)
Showstopper Christian Louboutin looks to the showgirls of the Paris cabarets he frequented as a young man as muses for his latest handbag collection, giving us what is sure to become a classic – the Paloma. Its nude handles slip into the body of the bag like a pair of long legs behind a stage curtain, the studs shine like theatre lights and the iconic rouge reflects the sensuality and confidence of the woman who wears it. He says: “You don’t have to be a showgirl to wear it, but you do have to be – and enjoy being – a woman.” (christianlouboutin.com)
Natural woman Bamford is known to take its inspiration for its clothing, accessories, body and skincare products from the natural world around us. And its new London home reflects precisely this. Providing a little oasis of calm and respite from the busy streets surrounding it, the store combines the elegance of Carole Bamford’s brand – all cashmere knitwear and beautiful objects for the home – with a distinctly relaxing atmosphere, thanks to the brightly lit space, dotted with chic references to the countryside. Jacket, £3,295, Bamford (bamford.co.uk) 64
Leather report Radley’s signature Scotty has been shelved (or kennelled, if you’ll excuse the pun) for its latest collection, a collaborative range with designer Jonathan Saunders. Combining Radley’s long history of bag-making with Saunder’s quirky style, the line comprises graphic print backpacks and block colour totes crafted from supple calf-leather and finished off with gold hardware. The range is the first in a two-part series, with the next expected in February. From £65 (radley.co.uk)
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Style
Feet first A smart and sophisticated evening shoe is a must-have wardrobe staple, and Tom Ford’s new Gianni loafers fit the bill very nicely indeed. Finely crafted in Italy from calf and kid leather, these loafers are a simple, traditional style with a leather sole, small heel and a flawless shine. The ideal finishing touch for any glamorous formal event. Gianni evening lace up loafers, £840, Tom Ford (tomford.com)
Eyewear exclusive Montblanc is bringing back the monocle, but if you’re not sure you can pull it off, this limited edition set also includes a pair of exquisitely crafted sunglasses. With vintage tortoiseshell acetate frames and brown tinted lenses, only 100 have been made, with edition numbers engraved on the temple. Montblanc limited edition sunglasses with monocle, from £376 (montblanc.com)
Perfect blend Premium fabric and vegetable-tanned leather finally meet for Troubadour’s newest collection of bags. Having worked exclusively with leather in the past, this new offering marks a change of direction for the brand. The fabric forms the brand’s lightest bag yet, and comes in a range of styles, while the leather ensures the collection will age beautifully. Fabric + Leather Collection, Troubadour (troubadourgoods.com)
Military precision Taking inspiration from the iconic army greatcoat, British designer Simon Carter has created a collection of military style accessories. Favoured for its warmth and durability, the Greatcoat is still a standard feature for armed forces across the world, and now it’s becoming a certified fashion statement. With a rich, serge wool from Abraham Moon & Sons, this high quality fabric is woven in Yorkshire and creates a selection of 21st century accessories, including the Holkham Tablet Bag, Rye Satchel and Credit Card Holder. (simoncarter.net)
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Wool dress, £520, Jonathan Simkhai, available at Selfridges; Boots, Christian Louboutin, £625, 08432274322 66
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars
In the
Spotlight Wrap up this winter in oversized, chunky knits in bold colours, loose-fitting trousers and capacious coats p h o t o g r a p h y: R a c h a e l L o u i s e M ay s t y l i n g : E l i z a b e t h H o a d ly
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Style | The CHESHIRE Magazine
ABOVE Turtleneck, £525, OSMAN (matchesfashion.com); Wool dress, £2,055, Chanel (chanel.com)
RIGHT Roll-neck jumper, £805, Sportmax (matchesfashion.com)
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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Style
ABOVE Yellow jumper, £450, trousers, £325, both Sportmax (sportmax.com); Boots, £1,125, Nicholas Kirkwood (matchesfashion.com)
LEFT Jumper, £500, and skirt, £295, both Max Mara (maxmara.com); Turtleneck jumper, £495, Fendi (fendi.com)
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ABOVE Red jumper, £530, Moncler (moncler.com); Multicolour wool trousers, £1,700, Fendi, as before; Boots, £895, Jimmy Choo (jimmychoo.com)
credits Hair & make-up: Fabio Vivan @ Toni & Guy, Victoria; Gosia Byliniak using BECCA Cosmetics Photographer’s assistant: Benny J Johnson Model: Lottie @ FM London Shot on location at Hotel Café Royal, Regent Street, London (hotelcaferoyal.com)
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Labels Marie Mero, Caroline Biss, Tuzzi, Olsen, Oui, Michaela Louisa, Leo & Ugo and more, along with FDJ
Opening soon in Sandbach Cheshire, for more information follow us on Facebook.
Elegance, 57 High Street, Tarporley, Cheshire, CW6 0DP
Tel: 01829 733595
Beauty news Magic tricks Make sure you’re always prepared for the weekend by snapping up MAC’s Magic of the Night collection. Glitter eyeshadows in a new colour-drenched pigment come in dark shades of purple, navy and charcoal grey, while lipsticks veer to the rouge side of the colour wheel with deep burgundy, rose pink and matte fuchsia shades. Add a slick of the new Pearlglide Intense Eyeliner and hit the town. From £13.50 (maccosmetics.co.uk)
A winter’s crème You can’t go wrong with a gift from Crème de la Mer and, fully aware of this, the fail-safe luxury beauty brand has therefore put together a selection of desirable collections in time for the holiday season. As the name suggests, the Treatment Essentials Collection comes complete with Crème de la Mer’s best-selling anti-ageing products, including the iconic moisturising cream, regenerating serum, treatment lotion and eye concentrate, all of which arrive in a silver-perforated cosmetics case. The Treatment Essentials Collection, £290 (cremedelamer.co.uk)
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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Style
TREATMENT OF THE MONTH
THE BEST MASSAGE... WORDS BY LOUISA CASTLE
... in the world. Probably. Massages take on lots of different forms, from sports to cellulite loss, but the Signature Massage at Lusso was just what was required at one of the busiest times of the year. My whole body was treated to the powerful yet magical hands (and elbows I think) of Aura, masseuse to the powerful, and saviour of my week. As I lay in the dimly lit, scented treatment room and Aura checked for any injuries or particular areas of tension, my mind couldn’t help running through the to-do list. Ten minutes in, that list was history. I was thinking about sitting on a beach. I was relaxing. Beginning with the legs before moving to my back and shoulders, muscles were stretched, pressure points targeted and tension released. Particularly in my right hand shoulder and hand – comes with the job. As I had walked in to the beautiful new boutique, I was questioning whether I could afford the time. Just over an hour later, I was asking Aura if she could fit me in every week. I have had many massages in my life, with mixed results. I am no expert, but do know a good one when I see one. Feeling like I am walking taller and lighter is a good result for me. Ready to face all that 2016 has to throw at me and maybe just a few more massages. Lusso Signature Massage from Aura, £75 5 Alderley Road, Wilmslow, SK9 1HY, 01625 444880 (livelusso.co.uk)
Image courtesy of: Chanel; photographer Sølve Sundsbø; model Sam Rollinson
Paint the town red While it seems hard to believe now, a dark red, verging on black nail polish would have been unheard of before the release of Chanel’s innovative deadly Vamp nail polish in 1995 – now known to everyone as Rouge Noir – it having first sparked the trend for non-traditional nail colours. In honour of its 20th anniversary, Chanel has based its winter 2015 collection on this best-selling product, encompassing an eye palette, blusher, eye liner, mascara, lipsticks and lip glosses in a moody colour palette, as well as, of course, Le Vernis Rouge Noir. It has been revamped in a sparkling gold lamé iridescent top coat to highlight this iconic shade. Le Vernis Rouge Noir & Le Top Coat Lamé Rouge Noir, £18 each (chanel.com)
Truly sublime Chanel has added to its renowned Sublimage collection with L’Extrait, a serum specifically created for damaged skin. Using vanilla planifolia (or as Chanel calls it, the ‘green diamond’), the concoction boasts active ingredients that work to repair, regenerate and protect your skin. £370 (chanel.com)
New flame There is much to expect from a Cire Trudon candle, thanks to a history that dates back to the 1600s and a client list that name-drops Louis XV and Napoleon. Luckily the label lives up to the historical hype with its trio of nativity-inspired wicks. Opt for Gaspard for tangy notes of mandarin, Gabriel for cashmere wood and leather and Melchior for myrrh and benzoin. £70 each (trudon.com) 75
Always be prepared Whatever the occasion, you want to look your best and, although make-up can hide a multitude of sins, Angela Bartlett advises that nothing beats careful preparation and forward planning for a radiant glow
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n more than thirty years in the beauty industry, I have found that the key to happy clients and great skin is to treat each person holistically and individually. One client may benefit from a course of skin treatments alone, while another may benefit more from skin treatments interspersed with massage – especially if signs of stress are showing in the face. Relaxation treatments like massage are often overlooked in the run-up to an important event, but they are often just as important as the more resultsdriven treatments. We often use reflex points on the feet to add additional benefit to our treatments, too. As soon as you know there is a special event coming up, you should speak to your therapist, as some treatments – such as skin needling or wrinklesoftening injections – require more forward planning than others to show results. It can take almost a year for the best results of skin needling to appear, while wrinkle-softening injections can take from two weeks to four months, depending on wrinkle depth. Also, don’t just think of your face – consider the body areas that are going to be on show: back, cleavage, arms. The back and upper chest areas are often neglected and may need some intense exfoliation to refine the skin texture, so think about some professional body exfoliation or microdermabrasion to revitalise hard to reach areas. There may be areas of your body with excessive hair growth which needs addressing too. Expert waxers can quickly whisk away unwanted hair, leaving smooth and silky skin; but for long-term hair management, IPL (intense pulsed light) is often the answer. A course of six treatments is required (one treatment each month), so again, plan ahead. And, of course, never be tempted to have an eyebrow wax too close to an event; choose threading or tweezing instead, just in case you experience a reaction to the heat.
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If sandals or open-toe shoes are to be worn, your feet will need attention, too. There is nothing more unattractive than cracked heels, so regular pedicures are a must if your feet are going to be on show. Did you know that persistent cracked heels can be a sign of insufficient intake of zinc, vitamin E and essential omega 3 fatty acids? If that is the case, it will take time to correct this and see the results. We often use a fruit acid peel on areas of persistent hard skin, as there is evidence to suggest that friction from regular buffing with conventional hard skin removal methods can lead to increased build up of hard skin. The peel literally dissolves unwanted hard skin to leave the area smooth and fresh. Once the preparation is complete it’s time for the finishing touches. Nothing beats expertly applied make-up for its longevity, but if you don’t have time for make-up on the day, expert lessons can help you recreate the same look on your own; even the most popular eye makeup trend of the moment, ‘smokey eyes’, is achievable with practice. Well-defined brows can make a huge difference to how well-groomed you look, particularly as brows are very ‘in vogue’ at the moment. We love HD Brows for the dramatic change it can make, regardless of a client’s age or colouring – and, after all, well-designed brows can often create the effect of having had a mini-facelift if done properly. So, whatever the occasion, plan well ahead and everything will soon fall into place. Having said that, if you happen to be reading this and you’re thinking ‘Help! I’ve left it too late’ – don’t panic – there’s still lots that can be achieved! Angela Bartlett is managing director of Sensoria. Wild Boar Hotel (first floor) Whitchurch Road, Beeston, Tarporley, Cheshire, CW6 9NW (01829 262626; sensoriabeauty.co.uk)
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Style
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Lip Service Following the launch of her new vanity case, Lulu Guinness talks to Lauren Romano about jet-setting in style and her soft spot for the capital
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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Style
There’s something so nostalgic about a vanity case. My grandmother never travelled without one. Fortunately I don’t think that the glamorous notion of travel is in danger of disappearing altogether. It has certainly become more accessible, but that doesn’t detract from the excitement you feel when counting down to a holiday. It is definitely still a luxury and something I take very seriously!
It was actually my make-up artist who was the inspiration behind the vanity case design.
From top: Polaroid lips shopper, both folded away and open; Lips print vanity and suitcase set
I realised how much she had to carry around with her, and all the different bags she would then pack into a suitcase. That’s why we have provided the multiple striped bags alongside the case to separate out all your essentials. The Lulu Guinness hardsided spinner luggage has always been a firm favourite and so a vanity seemed to be the perfect addition to the set.
When it comes to my own beauty regime, a slick of red lipstick has long been my signature look. I started wearing it when I was about 17 and people would always comment on how it suited me, so I’ve stuck with it ever since. It inspired the lips clutch that I created 20 years ago – a motif that still features in a variety of different styles across the Lulu Guinness range.
My first brush with fashion came from delving into my grandmother’s wardrobe. As a child I would spend hours dressing up in her designer clothes and jewellery. Fast forward to adulthood and my first bag design was actually a briefcase for women. I designed it from the basement of my home 26 years ago when I was pregnant, and I haven’t stopped adding to the collection since.
I love the fact that a bag can make an outfit. I wear a lot of black so I rely on my handbag to make a statement. When I’m not wearing my own label I love to accessorise with pieces from John Rochas, Moschino and Manolo Blahnik. My go-to daytime tote is my Daphne number, which I designed a few seasons ago and is now available in a selection of colours, although I always carry a red or black one. I also like the Thorn Chloe clutch
from my AW15 collection, which is ideal for evenings. If someone looked in my bag they’d find lots of scraps of paper floating around. I’m forever collecting inspirational images, photos and cuttings to show my colleagues.
The Lulu Guinness style is tongue in cheek, elegant and fun. I design for someone who doesn’t take themselves too seriously; a woman who is fashion forward and likes to convey her personality in what she wears. My all-time style icons are Elsa Schiaparelli
All images © Lulu Guinness Burlington Arcade / LuluGuinness.com
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and Paloma Faith. Designers have different ways of interpreting fashion and a lot of them have to take it seriously. However, fashion should be a way of expressing yourself and I do think people can get too caught up with chasing the latest trend and forget that.
My tagline for the A/W15 collection is: ‘Life is a bed of roses, but beware of the thorns’. I have used lots of dark and luxurious colour, including garnet and damson tones. I also played around with tape and took inspiration from the fashion artist Donald ‘Drawbertson’ Robertson’s designs; hence the tape face range.
It’s good to branch out from fashion circles; I have collaborated with artists in the past and I enjoy working with charities too. I would love to do something like The Paint Project again. When I took part, I joined forces with artist Joseph Steele and we exploded paint onto one of my bag designs to raise money for The Art Room charity.
I don’t think it’s harder for a woman to make waves in the fashion industry, not in this day and age. A lot has changed since I first started out, but I think there are plenty of strong women within the field showing us how it’s done. I work long hours but I try to achieve a good work/life balance by taking time out for my family. I make sure that I keep to our strict collection sign-off deadlines and escape to the country on the weekends whenever I possibly can. Organisation is key.
Is London the fashion capital of the world? I think you can tell a lot from the calibre of the London Fashion Week shows – it is certainly standing strong against New York, Milan and Paris. You can get anything you could possibly want from this city – it is a place that caters for everyone at every age. You can’t possibly get bored of London as it is consistently being updated and renovated with a new gallery, exhibition or shopping district opening up every week. I can’t keep up! (luluguinness.com)
From top: A/W15 Damson & orange lips clutch; A/W15 Tapeface backpack
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Say it all this Valentines Day... ...without saying a single word
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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Style
SPY WEAR
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oyal warrant shirt-maker and tailor extraordinaire Turnbull & Asser was inspired by the secretive world of spy and iconic films such as The Ipcress File with Michael Caine for its A/W15 collection. As well as its Formalist and Informalist lines (for weekdays and the weekend), 2015 sees the addition of eveningwear dubbed The Nocturnalist, which features bold patterns, silk smoking jackets, robes and sharp white dress shirts. (turnbullandasser.co.uk)
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Motoring news words: Iain Warde
End of an era The final chapter in the production of the McLaren P1™ has now been written, as the 375th and final example is completed, bringing the curtain down on the most technologically advanced and dynamically accomplished supercar ever made. From launch, the groundbreaking model was designed with one key goal: to be the best drivers’ car on road and track. Since headlining the debut motor show appearance for McLaren Automotive at the 2012 Paris Motor Show as a design study, the first model in the McLaren Ultimate series has been writing headlines, breaking lap times and thrilling owners the world over. Production commenced during the summer of 2013, with all cars sold prior to the first car being delivered, and the first car – finished with ice silver paintwork and
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extensive levels of visual carbon fibre – rolled off the production line during the 50th anniversary celebrations of McLaren, in September 2013. A fitting tribute to Bruce McLaren, the man whose dream it was to produce the ultimate drivers’ car. Following this, each and every car was custom built to the exacting specifications of its owner, in consultation with the team at McLaren Special Operations, ensuring that no two cars are the same. The final production example of the McLaren P1™ is finished extensively in stunning pearlescent orange, achieved through a unique tinting process. The colour echoes the shade of the 64th and final McLaren F1 roadcar, chassis #075, which went on to inspire Volcano Orange. (cars.mclaren.com)
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Motoring
Bond car on show This January the Jaguar C-X75 from Spectre will make an appearance at Autosport International. Two cars used in filming will be present at Birmingham’s NEC from 14-17 January. A must-see for any movie or car enthusiast, a demonstration of one of the specially-prepared stunt cars will take place in the Live Action Arena or, for a more detailed view, a second static car – one of the ‘hero’ models used for close-ups in Spectre – will be on display at the Williams stage area, another of the star attractions at Autosport International 2016. (autosportinternational.com)
A classic concept Two concept cars from Jaguar – originally built more than three decades apart – have been accurately recreated by classic car expert Neville Swales, who plans to offer exact reproductions for sale. Both due to be unveiled at the 2016 London Classic Car Show (ExCeL, 18-21 February), the first is the mid-engined XJ13, a possible Le Mans contender built in the 1960s, while the second recreates 1999’s XK180, originally crafted to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Jaguar XK120. The original XJ13 was completed by Jaguar in 1966 and was powered by a prototype quad-cam 5.0 litre V12 engine. Just one car was completed and claimed a UK speed record after racing driver David Hobbs lapped the banked MIRA test track at an average speed of more than 161mph. Remarkably it held the record for 32 years. It was later badly damaged in a highspeed crash, also at MIRA, but the rebuilt XJ13 – still owned by Jaguar – was rebodied and differs in a number of respects from the 1966 original. The recreations will accurately reflect the original car right down to the last rivet, even powered by one of the original six prototype quad cam V12 Jaguar engines. (thelondonclassiccarshow.co.uk)
On average, less than half of all driving tests result in a pass. Recent government statistics show that the success rate is 47% A sporty number The new Exige Sport 350 joins the recently announced Lotus Elise Sport and Elise Sport 220 – delivering a lighter and even more performance-focused driving experience. Concentrating on what Lotus does best, and with a focus on pure performance, the two-seater has been developed to deliver an unrivalled and sharper experience for the driver. The 3.5 litre supercharged V6 engine generates 345hp and 295lbft of torque at 4500rpm, while revised suspension tuning and wheel geometry contribute to unmatched vehicle dynamics and steering precision. Coupled with the car’s lower mass, this power and torque enables the Lotus Exige Sport 350 to accelerate to 60mph in just 3.7 seconds before reaching a top speed of 170mph. £55,900 (lotuscars.com/lotus-exige-range) 85
Racing
ahead
Jaguar’s new XF shows how far the company has come in a few short years, says Matthew Carter. Combining speed with stability and offering more than ever before, BMW et al should be worried
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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Motoring
A
t the end of the long start/finish straight of the Circuito de Navarra near Pamplona in northern Spain there’s a slight right turn that leads into a tighter right before a slowish hairpin. This first slight right is, I am assured by the instructor in the passenger seat, flat. Flat to the floor that is, no lift of the accelerator, just trust-me-it’s-flat flat. For the first four or five laps I simply don’t believe him. By the end of the straight we are nearly at the top speed of the car – 155mph – and that seems impossibly fast for what is, after all, still a corner. The first time I brake and, clumsily, have to get back on the accelerator before the next right. Next time through I stay away from the brake but lift off the power momentarily. Not going to win any races doing this, but for the next three laps I can’t stop myself lifting off. Eventually, I screw up as much courage as I can muster and keep my foot in through the first bend. He’s right, it can be done. It’s impressive. The car stays rock solid as I clip the apex and we arrive at the next corner faster but with the car better balanced for some serious braking.
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Then it’s back on the power for the short stretch to the hairpin and the rest of this sinuous circuit. What’s remarkable about this is not my racetrack ability (or rather the lack of it), more that I’m doing this in a large executive four-door saloon, a car built for road-going comfort not racetrack finesse. But the very fact that Jaguar has incorporated this two-hour track session in its launch plans for the new XF saloon says all you need to know about the company’s confidence in the car. If a standard road car can cope with the performance and handling demands of a racetrack, it only needs to have strong ride comfort and refinement levels to become the perfect all-rounder. There are four different engine options for this new XF and, predictably, we are using the most powerful, the supercharged 3.0-litre petrol, at Navarra. But impressive as it is, the petrol is not the XF to have day in, day out. To get to the track and back we use diesel models, a 300hp 3.0-litre V6 turbo and a 180hp four-cylinder (the fourth variant, a 163hp version of the ‘four’, is on the price list but not here today). And it’s the 180hp diesel that’s the most impressive. When the first XF was launched, back in 2007,
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the future of the entire company rested upon its shoulders. At that time, Ford had the company up for sale and Tata was waiting in the wings. Jaguar’s model line-up looked old-fashioned and BMW, Mercedes or Audi were the badges of choice for the thrusting young executive. The XF changed all that. Avant-garde looks showed the company was, at last, looking forward and had left its retro phase behind. Since then we’ve had the striking XJ, the rapid F-type and the impressive XE junior saloon with the F-Pace SUV just around the corner. It’s cool to drive a Jaguar again. And here’s the all-new second generation XF. Although its silhouette is broadly similar to the outgoing car, it genuinely is all-new and features Jaguar’s new and distinctive family ‘face’. It has a longer wheelbase, giving more room inside (notably in the rear where knee room was poor in the old one), yet the car is actually a little shorter overall than before. More significantly, it’s a great deal lighter. Where the old car was mainly built of steel, the structure of the new one is mostly aluminium. Jaguar claims savings of up to 190kg, the equivalent of removing two blokes from the rear seats. The lighter weight means you don’t need so much power to row the thing along, so you needn’t
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Motoring
mobile wi-fi hotspot, a screen display that responds turn your nose up at the idea of a 2.0-litre, like a smartphone and access to all manner of apps four-cylinder diesel powering your executive as well as advanced sat nav and mobile phone saloon. With ample power, excellent torque and integration. low emissions, the Ingenium engine is ideally Naturally there is a plethora of advanced driving suited to the new XF. Performance is strong: the assistance systems available as options, using radar, unit’s excellent pulling power combines with the cameras and sensors to keep the car on the straight smooth-shifting eight-speed ZF auto to ensure that and narrow, while a laser head-up display projects overtaking acceleration is instantly available. speed, gearshift indication and navigation The best thing about the car, though, is its instructions onto the windscreen, allowing the chassis. On the racetrack there’s very little body driver to concentrate on the road ahead. roll and the grip is exemplary. It’s even There are four trim levels starting better on the road. The lighter with Prestige (that alone gives you weight makes it feel more agile, Car: Jaguar an idea of how Jaguar would while the rigid structure – it’s XF 2.0d R-Sport Auto like us to view the car) and 28 per cent stiffer than Price: £36,850 runs through R-Sport, before, says Jaguar – helps to Engine: Front-mounted, 1,999cc, Portfolio and S. give the car a solidity we four- cylinder turbo diesel Prestige is a good starting expect from German Power: 180 PS place, but R-Sport adds executive saloons. Performance: 136mph max, sports suspension, sports And when it comes to the 0-60mph in 7.7 secs seats and a body kit for a ride/handling compromise, Drive: Rear-wheel drive, racier look. You’ll still need to no one does it better than eight-speed automatic tick a few options to get the full Jaguar. It’s sharp, pointy and transmission experience, but the new XF nimble, yet supremely comfortable remains a highly desirable and at the same time. well-considered alternative to the usual It’s a nicer place inside too. Quality is 5-series, E-class and A6 exec saloons. improved and the interior is less gimmicky than Now please excuse me but I need to get back to before, which is a good thing. Jaguar has also come mastering Navarra. There’s another tricky corner a long way on the communications front and the out at the back of the circuit, a double apex affair 10.2-inch touch screen infotainment system, called that’s ready to bite if you don’t get it just right… InControl Touch, is as good as it gets. It delivers a
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sky’s the limit Enjoy life in the open air with the new Mercedes S-Class cabriolet – the first of its kind to be created by the brand in 44 years W O R D S : J e n n i f er M a so n
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ercedes has a long history with cabriolets. Even back in the 1920s, its customers were able to combine the comfort and safety of the brand’s engineering with the freedom of open-top motoring – and during post-war production, all the top Mercedes-Benz models (including the 170 S in 1949, the 220 in 1951 and the 300 S in 1952) were available in cabriolet form (though this was an extremely exclusive variant). The real advocate of the Benz cabriolet form was the 220 SE (of the model series W 111) which was launched in 1961 – the design of which is still considered timeless. So it comes as welcome news that the brand is paying homage to the coveted dream car of the ‘60s by launching a new S-Class Cabriolet, which follows in the tradition of the open-top models that proved so popular between 1961 and 1971 – and until today, in fact, with a 280 SE 3.5 from 1971 selling at auction last year for US $429,000. It’s been 44 years since Mercedes launched an open-top four-seater and the new S-Class Cabriolet certainly promises to deliver. I, for one, can’t wait for a chance to get behind the wheel of this modern reincarnation. (mercedes-benz.co.uk)
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Get closure The fabric roof can be opened or closed in just 20 seconds at speeds of up to 37mph. Its acoustically-optimised, three-layer lining makes it one of the quietest and most insulated soft-tops ever.
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Motoring
Silent strength An innovative aluminium bulkhead behind the rear seats reinforces the cabriolet’s structure and supports the automatically extending roll bars. The aluminium rear floor also increases the car’s torsional strength.
Climate control The cockpit uses sensors to automatically maintain temperature levels. The AIRSCARF® neck-level heating system helps to prevent those chilly gusts while the AIRCAP turbulence-reducing system offers protection from the elements.
All that glitters Those who like to add a bit of bling to their ride can order their LED headlights encrusted with Swarovski crystals for the indicators and daytime running lights.
Power up When it arrives in 2016, the cabriolet will come with both S550 and S63 AMG 4Matic iterations – powered by the 4.7-litre, twinturbocharged V8 (449bhp) or the 5.5-litre AMG engine, which produces 577bhp and does 0-60mph in 3.9 seconds.
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Travel news
Ocean’s eleven To celebrate David Attenborough’s Great Barrier Reef, recently aired on BBC 1, Hamilton Island has launched the Reefsleep experience. Guests can enjoy a night under the stars in a traditional ‘swag’, bobbing with the tides on a pontoon above Hardy Reef. You can learn all about the reef’s ecosystem from an expert guide by day and put your knowledge to the test with an afternoon of snorkelling. Night time scuba diving is also on offer for those who dare to take the plunge as the reef comes to life after dark. Reefsleepexperience from £220; nightly rates at the Reef View Hotel on Hamilton Island from £191 a night (hamiltonisland.com.au)
The real thing If you’re used to trawling the internet for family-friendly UK mini-breaks, but have often been faced with a reality which doesn’t quite match up to the idyll depicted online, fear no longer. North Wales holiday lettings agency, Dioni, prides itself on setting the bar for a higher level of detail and service in the UK, going above and beyond for its customers to create a detailed vision of exactly what they are booking before they click. With a gorgeous range of self-catering cottages perfect for groups of family or friends, the company uses camera equipment, drones and extensive research to pinpoint exactly why and how people like to book their holidays – meaning the whole experience is tailor-made and guaranteed to deliver. (dioni.co.uk)
loves
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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Travel
B r e at h e e a s y
Director’s cut Often the best part of a holiday is the memories you take back with you. Trisara Phuket has taken memory-making to a new level with the introduction of its Director’s Den, a digital lounge based at the resort, designed to help you capture the magic of travelling. The den allows you to make high-quality videos, featuring your favourite songs and quotes to commemorate your trip, so you can keep your holiday memories alive long after your tan has faded. From £300 (trisara.com)
Long haul vs short haul
Short haul Sixth sense
Why practise your sun salutations at home when Six Senses Spa Marbella is launching a new winter yogic programme? Featuring three new intensive programmes, Yoga, Yogic Detox and Yogic Sleep, learn how to improve breathing and focusing techniques, using physical movement to calm and strengthen your mind and body. The picturesque scenery and winter sunshine will ensure total relaxation too. Namaste. From £655 for 7 nights (puenteromano.com)
Moroccan mirage Fancy the chance to unwind in your own exotic paradise? Available for rent from £255 per night, Villa Jude in Marrakech is designed in a charming oriental style in the most prestigious area of the Amelkis golf resort, just a few hundred metres from its clubhouse. The house is perfect for a holiday with family and friends, or for keen golfers looking to get away, thanks to its manicured private garden, large swimming pool, outdoor dining terrace, mountain views and sun lounging areas. The house has six bedrooms, all with en-suites, and sleeps
up to 12 guests. The villa is a seven minute drive from the centre of Marrakech, and less than 5 minutes away from the renowned Royal Golf and Al Maaden Golf. (villajude.com)
Star struck Kabuki Raw at Finca Cortesin is well worth a visit next time you’re in Málaga. The popular Japanese restaurant was recently awarded its first Michelin Star. All the fish used on the menu is sourced from sustainable fisheries in the nearby Spanish Straits, with organic produce grown in the hotel’s own vegetable garden. View the chefs in action at the open kitchen while enjoying popular Japanese favourites, enhanced with a Spanish twist, such as the wild shrimp tortilla and the tuna belly with Andalusian tomato and toasted bread. (fincacortesin.com)
Long haul Anchors away
Keen sailors can test their sea legs in style in New Zealand and Micronesia with the SENSES yacht. Chartered through Y.CO, journeying by yacht gives explorers the chance to delve into sunken volcano craters and see the incredible Nan Madol ruins. Discover tropical islands while you take part in an array of water sports and dip and dive past exotic marine and bird life on a jetski. With a touch-and-go helipad and world-class dining, all you need to do is dust off those binoculars, pack some sun lotion and get ready for an adventure. From £266,000 for 7 nights, (y.co)
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NORTHWEST ARCH DAWN BY JHOLKO.COM / TOURISM NEW ZEALAND
Changing PA R T O N E
faces
A bucket list destination for many, Louisa Castle travels to the other side of the world to discover the many faces of New Zealand
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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Travel
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nown for years-out and adventure, many of my friends departed on their grand tour around the world before university, and the tales I remember most were those of New Zealand. So when the opportunity arose for my husband and I to visit the land of the long white cloud, we jumped at the chance – although we were looking for a slightly different experience. Challenge number one: could we cope with a flight which lasts (albeit in two legs) nearly 24 hours? I’ve heard that makes many people rethink their grand plans. Not us. And as we settled into our premium economy seats (worth that extra cash) and the All Blacks appeared on our screens to give the safety briefing (worth a YouTube search if you’ve not seen it) our feelings were of pure excitement as we stretched our legs. I’m not going to lie to you, the flight is a long one, and it confuses your body clock as you fly backwards via Los Angeles to arrive tomorrow.
“When the opportunity arose to visit the land of the long white cloud, we jumped at the chance” Still working on that one. But the best thing to do is grab that Kiwi laid-back nature with both hands and let yourselves be looked after by the on-board team. We arrived into Auckland early on a Sunday and had arranged for an early check-in at the Sofitel Viaduct Harbour. After a few hours sleep we were up and ready to explore. Head to Ponsonby for a stroll around Auckland’s hippest streets, take the elevator up the 328-metre Sky Tower or take a trip along the water front. The next day our New Zealand adventure began in earnest, our brief to see as many different scenes as possible and make sure we saw some wildlife too. After a short flight north to KeriKeri, we began to see the New Zealand we’d imagined: lush, green, rolling hills. Domestic flights are a
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dream, by the way; nothing like in the UK. Air New Zealand is the only operator in most airports so you just turn up, scan your ticket and hop on the plane. One short transfer and ferry trip later we arrived at our first stay, Eagles Nest. As the name suggests, Eagles Nest is perched on the ridgeline of a peninsula nestled amongst native manuka trees, in a 75-acre estate. There are five villas within it, all in their own private space, and all looking as though they’d come straight out of the latest Bond movie. We stayed in The Eyrie, a three-bedroom villa with
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pool, Jacuzzi and stunning views which you’d be forgiven for thinking were Mediterranean. There’s a home theatre system (we used it for music, as the view was all we needed to watch), full kitchen and fridge, stocked and restocked daily with lovely local produce, from bacon to ginger beer. As if by design, as the sun went down and the birds’ evening chorus began, Graham, our personal chef, arrived to cook us dinner. Tailored to your dietary needs and requests, there’s a team of chefs at your service throughout your stay, should you wish to call on them. Needless to say, during our two-night stay we dined like royalty, and the standard was set for the rest of the holiday, with local lamb, smoked duck and gurner and oozing chocolate pudding. Do try the local rock oysters (you can see the bay where they were picked from your balcony). I can’t recommend them highly enough. Delicious. Next day was for exploring. Russell Nature Walks offers short, easy guided walks in their private reserve. It’s home to the kiwi and the curious North Island weka – both extremely rare – along
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Travel
with a whole host of other creatures which rely on the forest and each other. Go for the night walk (great with the kids) if you want to catch an elusive parent kiwi foraging; although Eion and Lisette, who run the reserve, have captured some amazing footage from the nest-cams if you miss them. We’re following the chicks’ progress on Facebook! Whether you’re an avid nature-lover or really don’t know your weka from your weta (like us), it’s well worth your time. Plus, $10 from your ticket goes directly into regenerating the reserve. Russell itself has a colourful history (home to a few unsavoury residents in its time) and is worth a visit, whether it’s the oldest church in New Zealand (complete with musket holes from 1845) or a leisurely lunch at the Duke of Marlborough. Alas, we soon had to relinquish our chef and villa as we were bound for Rotorua and a completely different scene on the New Zealand landscape. We did have time en route, however, for a little indulging in Hobbiton – the set of the blockbuster movie trilogy deep in the heart of central farming country.
My husband is an avid fan of Sir Peter Jackson’s films (I prefer the books), though a high percentage of visitors to the set haven’t seen the films and are just curious to learn how they were made. I must say, it is magical, and the stories bring it to life. You can even have a drink (exclusively brewed) and a bite to eat in the Green Dragon at the end of your tour. If you travel around New Zealand you will notice scenes from the movies, from Mount Doom to the Enchanted Forest. It is the everyday view for many and something the Kiwis are very proud of, so if you can squeeze in a visit, it’s a great experience.
ABOVE: RAHIMOANA AT EAGLES NEST LEFT: THE EYRIE VILLA AT EAGLES NEST RIGHT: hobbiton (sara orme)
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“Our sanctuary for the next few nights was high above the treetops with views across the valley” As we emerged from the forest at Treetops Lodge and Estate we were greeted with a wholly different face of New Zealand; 2,500 acres of native forest and valley and a welcoming guest services manager, Michael. There are numerous rooms for the guests to enjoy in the lodge (do spend some time discovering the treasures that the study holds), as well as four bedrooms; but we were in one of eight villas a short path away. Our sanctuary for the next few nights was high above the treetops with views across the valley and sumptuous furnishings, open fire and Jacuzzi bath. It was also the perfect place, as we discovered that evening, for viewing the uninterrupted stars above. Before dinner, cocktails are served back in the main Lodge. Ladies beware: if you decide to don your heels, have your partner at hand to steady you down the stairs to the front lawns. I think I need more practice. The philosophy at Treetops is one of ‘estate to plate’ and everything (bar the eggs) comes from either the organic kitchen garden or a call from chef to the estate manager that venison (fresh from the herds) will be on the menu. We dined on estate Arapawa lamb, red deer, duck and tried a
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the great hall, treetops lodge & estate
pheasant hash for breakfast. The homemade salami is also a must-try. Once you’ve filled up on the food, there’s plenty to do on site, with more than 40km of trails within the estate, if you want to explore on foot. We chose the Bridal Veil Falls which took us through the valleys and forests to a perfectly placed table and chairs at the foot of the fresh water fall. The owners hadn’t known it was there for three years as the forest was so dense. There are photographic safaris
sofitel, auckland
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Travel
ROTORUA ARTS & CRAFTS CENTRE (James-Heremaia / TOURISM NEW ZEALAND)
treetops lodge
breakfast at treetops
THE FACTS: A 13-day New Zealand luxury-with-aconscience adventure, similar to this, costs from £4,860 per person. This includes all six luxury lodge stays on a half board basis; guided experiences at each lodge; an albatross watching tour; a guided Milford Sound tour; car hire; domestic flights and transfers. International flights not included.
to go on, too – by horse or four-wheel drive – not to mention archery, clay-pigeon shooting, hunting (in season) and fishing, as well as an amazing Maori indigenous food trail. You may not actually want to leave the estate! But if you do venture out, there’s plenty on your doorstep, from the Maori Arts & Crafts Institute and learning the haka (have the video at the ready), to the geothermal valley, zorbing, bike trails and mud baths. So far, the North Island had realised our dreams of welcoming people and wide open spaces, and within this island alone we had seen the changing faces of culture and scenery – from the tropical paradise to the north, to the rainforests in the centre, with a little movie magic thrown in. Our next question; could the South Island possibly top it? (russellnaturewalks.co.nz; hobbitontours.com) Read part two of Louisa’s journey around the Southe Island in next month’s issue.
Alternatively, a 13-day itinerary to New Zealand including two of the luxury lodge properties visited along with quality hotels and guest houses on a mix of half board and bed andf breakfast basis costs from £2,770 per person. This includes stays at Hapuku Lodge, Bay of Many Coves, quality B&Bs and hotels on a mixture of full and half board basis; guided experiences at the two lodges; an albatross watching tour; a guided Milford Sound tour; car hire; domestic flights and transfers. International flights not included. For more information and expert advice on travel to New Zealand visit newzealandindepth.co.uk, call +44 (0)1298 74040 or email explore@newzealand-indepth.co.uk Return flights from London to Auckland (via LA) from £863 per person. For the most up to date fares to New Zealand please visit www. airnewzealand.co.uk/flights-to-new-zealand
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TOP 10
Romantic hideaways
Whether it’s a honeymoon, an anniversary escape, or a Valentine’s Day mini-break, we’ve selflessly trawled the globe to bring you destinations guaranteed to have you smitten all over again #1 From Russia with love While it’s still snow-covered, scenic and perfect for cosying up in the warm, there is no better time to grab your sheepskins and furs and head to the former Olympic town of Sotchi, Russia. For a thorough dose of romance, stay at the Grand Hotel & Spa Rodina, on the Russian Riviera, which has recently been listed as one of Five Star Alliance’s World’s Best Luxury Hotels and Resorts. Whilst its private beach may not be too desirable during the frosty months, the spa is one of the biggest in Europe and offers a menu of lavish treatments exclusive to the hotel. (grandhotelrodina.ru)
#2 City loving Situated in the heart of Tel Aviv, adjacent to the famous Rothschild Boulevard, The Norman opened its doors in 2014, thus giving some of the world’s most romantic venues a run for their money. As a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, the property blends modern glamour with a 1920s boutique style. Including two penthouse suites and a large selection of contemporary Israeli artworks, famed Japanese eatery Dinings is one of two restaurant options and the ideal spot for getting lost in each other’s eyes over candlelight. (thenorman.com)
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#3 The British way For a romantic minibreak, check in to Luton Hoo, a luxury five-star hotel perched on the border of Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire. The historic Grade I-listed mansion house sits within 1,000 acres of landscaped parkland and includes a spa, two restaurants and an 18-hole golf course. When it comes to bedding down for the night, we love the opulent mansion state suites, complete with four-poster beds and plush velvet curtains. (lutonhoo.co.uk)
#4 Piece of paradise Boasting sandy white beaches and crystal sapphire waters, the Viceroy Anguilla Resort sits on 35 acres of luscious Caribbean beach front, and offers couples a taste of pure island paradise. Choose an ocean-view studio rooftop suite, with its own outdoor terrace and plunge pool to catch the rays by day. By night, enjoy a peaceful evening in your private dining area, as a meal is freshly prepared by your personal chef. (viceroyhotelsandresorts.com)
#5 Testing the water You may have to make it a fortnight-to-remember when you consider the length of the flight, but it will be well worth it, once you’ve set eyes on Baros Maldives’ gorgeous water pool villas. Overlooking the lagoon with stunning infinity views over the sea, couples will relish the total privacy, and – unlike the majority of other hotel chains in the area – Baros Maldives is an independent Maldivian-owned and run resort, and was recently crowned Most Romantic Resort in the Indian Ocean, for the second year running. (baros.com)
#6 Cloud number nine Towering 8,250 feet above sea level, the majestic Wildflower Hall is a decadent Himalayan retreat with mesmerising views – the open-air jacuzzi offers a particularly superior vantage point. For those seeking a tranquil escape, Oberoi Hotels enables guests to hark back to an age of bygone glamour at Shimla (the former summer capital of the British Raj). It’s possibly the most idyllic place to immerse yourself in nature, and feel completely pampered. (oberoihotels.com)
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Travel | The CHESHIRE Magazine
#7 Mind, body and soul While Artemis, goddess of hunting, wandered the woods of Zakynthos, it’s said her brother, Apollo, played the lyre in homage to the beauty of the Greek islands. Bespoke travel specialist Kudos Life Experiences provides intrepid travellers with journeys deep into Greece’s culture and heritage – whether by learning meditation techniques in ancient temples, or cooking with local fishermen on the banks of Ionian blue waters – giving you a chance to explore undiscovered corners of this ancient paradise together. (kudoslifeexperiences.com)
#8 Exotic calm On what is arguably Vietnam’s most beautiful and undiscovered islands, situated just ten minutes from the airport and nestled away on Long Beach, lies the Salinda Resort and Spa. Ultra-modern architecture and state-of-the-art facilities only enhance the breathtaking Vietnamese landscape, and all 121 rooms and villas feature a private balcony. A little wander from the infinity pool is the private, white sandy beach, offering snorkelling and scuba diving in its crystal clear waters. (salindaresort.com)
#9 Arabian nights To soak up vibrant Qatari culture without missing out on creating your own private retreat, head for Banana Island Resort Doha by Ananatara. Just 20 minutes by ferry from Doha, it is located on a peaceful, crescentshaped island with calm, clear waters and a private beach. There is an Arabian influence to the room and suite designs, not to mention spacious over-water villas – now it really doesn’t get more romantic than that. (anantara.com)
#10 To the manor born Sant Francesc Hotel Singular, a former manor house of the local nobility, was refurbished and opened as a luxurious hotel last year in an historic square of Palma de Mallorca’s old town. In keeping with its history, lavish fabric, antiques and ceiling frescos inhabit the rooms, and the once horse-filled courtyard and stables have been transformed into a restaurant and charming bar, with indoor and al fresco seating for candlelit cocktails and tapas for two. (hotelsantfrancesc.com)
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Corporate E vents Weddings Private Parties Entertainm ent Venue Finding
K at e Pa r k TEL: 0161 905 2052 MO B: 07718 456 054 w w w.katepa rke ven ts.c o.u k
Travel | The CHESHIRE Magazine
Weekend away …The Opera Apartment, Vienna WORDS: louisa castle
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enowned city of culture, Vienna, offers a compact city break which caters for all tastes, so – keen to explore all elements – I tempted my husband with Sachertorte, and managed to sneak in some art as well. Our base for exploring came in the form of The Opera Apartment, part of The Hideaways Club city collection – an exclusive shared-ownership club which allows members to invest, and holiday, in beautiful homes across the globe. There are 13 iconic city centre apartments to choose from, each accommodating between four and six guests. Hidden away in a side street across from the Opera House (where they’d just finished filming the latest Mission Impossible) the entrance to our apartment was simple and unassuming. We were met by our concierge at the door; a lovely lady whom we’d met over email when we booked the trip, and whose brain we’d been picking for weeks on things to do and places to eat. She and her team are always on hand to fill your fridge or book restaurants or shows, should you need them. A period property with a central square, the apartment reminded me of those in Paris with grand doors and stone floors. There were three private double bedrooms and a huge living space, all finished to a high design standard with some quirky iBride pieces and others that avid interior
designers will recognise. There’s complimentary use of iPad and printer, should you need it, plus sound system docking units in each room. Should you stay in, the kitchen is well-stocked with appliances and utensils, and we were particularly pleased to see the Nespresso machine taking pride of place. Thanks to the apartment’s prime location, we soon discovered that all our sight-seeing destinations were easily accessible – whether it was a trip to the Schoenbrunn Palace and a walk around the gardens, or a visit to the Spanish Riding School (highly recommended, horse lover or not). Gustav Klimt’s frieze is a must see, but even those without a love for art will agree it’s a beautiful city. We found the main shopping street just at the end of the road, along with Hotel Sacher and its famous cake, but there was no hustle and bustle when we returned home each day, despite being right in the centre. If you’re looking for a great restaurant, we cannot recommend ef16 Restaurant Weinbar highly enough: great wine, friendly waiters and a little haven in the city centre. Each day we returned from our explorations to the sanctuary of our apartment, resting weary feet and soon reinvigorated for the next thing, perfectly placed and with everything we needed. Entry level membership from £69,500 (thehideawaysclub.com)
“Finished to a very high design standard avid interior designers will recognise” 104
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loves
Goldie locks
Hanging out by the lockers might be frowned upon at school, but there are no problems with doing this in your own home. Deck out your children’s bedrooms with The Locker Collection’s range of quirky interiors, now available in the UK for the first time thanks to kids’ boutique Nubie. Take your pick from locker-inspired desks that wouldn’t look out of place in Saved by the Bell, wooden wardrobes in dusty blue shades and tipi-shaped shelving units for storage solutions with a twist. From £75 (nubie.co.uk)
Kids’ news Dream date If you’re embarking on a health kick this new year, why not use it as an opportunity to make a few little changes to your kids’ diets too? Our current favourite sugar alternative is the yummy BeLOVeD date nectar, which uses the antioxidant-packed age-old champion of superfoods, the humble date, to create a naturally sweet syrup – mild in taste, but perfect for everything from baking to pancakes and porridge. The wonderfully versatile nectar is bursting with notes of caramel, cinnamon and honey, providing the perfect totally natural pick-me-up for chilly winter weather. £3.99, available now from Waitrose, Sainsburys and ASDA 106
Double trouble Whether five or 35, many a doting daughter has borrowed from her mum’s wardrobe. But if you don’t fancy having your Chloé jumper decorated with mashed banana, then the label’s kidswear collection is on hand to make a ‘mini-me’ transformation all the more possible. Comprising teal biker jackets, tan Chelsea boots and black faux fur coats, Chloé’s latest range is ideal for trendy tots who think of mum as their number one style icon. From £20 (childrensalon.com)
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Family
Get your skates on Skateboarding isn’t usually the first thing you think of in the winter, and yet Paul Smith has designed his junior A/W15 collection with the sport in mind. Shunning the gloomy winter weather of the capital for the sunsoaked skate parks of Venice Beach, Smith has designed maroon chinos, colourful jackets and beanie hats inspired by the pro-skaters of Los Angeles. Kneepads at the ready… From £11 (paulsmith.co.uk)
A Polly good idea Nine months is a long time, and as your bump gets bigger so does the challenge of getting dressed. Luckily Just Polly has arrived. The stylish maternity wear brand is giving pregnancy a makeover with linen dresses, relaxed shirts and soft knits. Designed with discreet nursing panels and coordinating modesty blankets, fashion-conscious mums-to-be can stay stylish during and after pregnancy. (justpolly.co.uk)
MR HENDRIX leashed
F
Un
ebruary means a busy time (with lots of walks to burn off my winter weight in time for Valentine’s Day), but before all that, time for one last treat or two. I’ll be busy in the kitchen cooking up my chicken pancakes celebrating Shrove Tuesday on 9th February and, to wash my pancakes down, I’ll be drinking in the delights of Snuffle Dog Beer – that’s right, a beer for dogs! Of course it doesn’t contain alcohol, but it is made in a real brewery and, instead of alcohol, they add beef and chicken extracts. Sometimes, after a hard day, it’s great to sit down and have a beer with my owner Anji, knowing I’m adding goodness to my diet. It’s a great way to get mineral oils, vitamin B and a host of essential nutrients into your system, although I must learn to sip and savour the Snuffle instead of downing it in one. And not only that, but Snuffle Dog Beer also helps dogs that haven’t had a good start in life, with a percentage of the profits going to dog asylums and projects for the sterilisation of stray dogs. It gets my paw of approval. Belly full, I decide to head down to The Devisdale in Altrincham. I’ve been coming here since I was a scrap of a pup and spend a lot of my time here – sometimes it’s just a Sunday stroll, smelling the flowers; other times a mad chase through the trees and beautiful woodlands with my best pals. Denzell Gardens and The Devisdale are open and free from dawn until dusk, and Anji and I always enjoy wandering around The Peace Garden, especially at this time of year when the snowdrops start to appear – planted over the years by school children and now bravely pushing their way up through the sleet and snow. There’s also a wildlife pond which attracts frogs, newts, damsel and dragons and, though I have to admit I was a little nervous going to see the dragons, they actually turned out to be dragonflies. Phew, panic over. Dogs of all shapes and sizes are welcome in The Devisdale (and owners too – if they promise to be wellbehaved), but it is worth remembering we should not swim in the wildlife pond or chase any of the creatures who inhabit this beautiful area. I can guarantee dogs and their owners will fall in love with The Devisdale just as we have. Until next time, love and Valentine Licks,
Mr Hendrix
xxx (facebook.com/mrhendrixandfriends; snuffle-dogbeer.com; friendsofdenzellanddevisdale.com)
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el g v in le m A or & rf SE pe C p G To l at o ho sc
The King’s School in Macclesfield
Outstanding education from 3 to 18 years
Infant & Junior Events: Taster Afternoon* Thursday 11 February, 1- 3pm
Open Afternoon Friday 22 April, 1- 3pm • Exceptional results at infant and junior stages • Outstanding GCSE results with 60% A*/A • A Level results far above independent schools’ average • Unrivalled range of extra-curricular activities • One of England’s leading music schools
*booking required Please contact Admissions on 01625 260000 or admissions@kingsmac.co.uk
Charity No. 1137204
• New sports facilities
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Family
The classroom A royal visit Withington’s new junior school has been officially opened by HRH The Duchess of Gloucester accompanied by headmistress, Mrs. Sue Marks, the Lord-Lieutenant of Greater Manchester, Mr. Warren Smith, The High Sheriff of Greater Manchester, Mrs. Sharman Birtles and Mr. Grahame Birtles, The Rt. Worshipful the Lord Mayor of Manchester, Councillor Paul Murphy and the Lady Mayoress, Mrs. Anita Murphy. At the formal ceremony, the duchess unveiled a plaque and was presented with a copy of the school’s 125th anniversary book by head girl, Radhika Saggar, as well as receiving a posy of flowers from seven year-old Tara Sumra, the youngest pupil in the school. (wgs.org)
Design a jump School children across the northwest were asked to design one of the show-jumping fences for the Liverpool International Horse Show. The winner, Olivia Taylor from St Martin and St Mary Primary School in Windermere, won with a great design involving musical notes, song lyrics and guitars – a nod to Liverpool’s musical heritage. She was presented with her prize by European Games bronze medallist, Abi Newbery and will not only see the design brought to life, but has also earned her school 200 free tickets for the New Year show. (liverpoolhorseshow.com)
Don’t
miss
Radhika Saggar, TaraSumra, Sue Marks and HRH the duchess of gloucester
headmistress Sue Marks and HRH the duchess of gloucester in the arts centre
Drop-in crafts for children of all ages at The Old Sunday School, Macclesfield, over half term (silkmacclesfield.org.uk) 109
Together through
art
Cheshire primary school pupils and teachers at The Firs School have taken art and design to a whole new level with a project that has developed their link with a sister school in Auckland
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s part of the 70th anniversary of The Firs School in Cheshire, the pupils and teachers have worked with travel experts at New Zealand in Depth to develop a link with Richmond Road School in Auckland, just a stone’s throw from where their founder, Mrs Florence Longman, originated. This term, pupils on both sides of the world have been studying the culture of their sister school through the medium of art. “Whichever area of the world you live in, art can capture the essence of a culture, and sometimes transport you to another time or place. When it comes to art and craft, the Maori have developed such a distinctive style so intertwined with culture, that it is sometimes a challenge to see where one finishes and the other
example of Koru art (tes)
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begins,” said Paul Carberry, owner and travel expert from New Zealand in Depth. The pupils at The Firs took inspiration from a wide range of Maori art, from the traditional to the modern, bringing the whole school along on an artistic journey in celebration of New Zealand’s art. Twinkling in the winter sky just before dawn, Matariki (the Pleiades) signals the Maori New Year, traditionally a time for remembering the dead and celebrating new life. Heaven-bound kites, hot-air balloons and fireworks help mark the occasion. The Firs youngest pupils were inspired by Matariki to make a collaborative mural whilst Year 1 designed their own Maori kites. The children loved the fact that years ago
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Family
the Maoris used to make kites, fly them and, wherever they landed, was where they set up their homes. The koru, Maori for ‘loop’, is a spiral shape based on the shape of a new unfurling silver fern frond and symbolises new life, growth, strength and peace. It is an integral symbol in Maori art, carving and tattoos. The circular shape of the koru helps to convey the idea of perpetual movement, while the inner coil suggests a return to the point of origin. The children in Reception created bold paintings featuring the ‘koru’ using a range of media, mixing colours and exploring patterns, while Year 4 developed drawings by painting and printing with the ‘koru’ as a central theme. Year 3 children have been studying the artwork of Raewyn Harris, a New Zealand artist who has taught art to children at all levels, encouraging them to express themselves in ways which reflect their cultural identity. With a following of private collectors and galleries to her name, Raewyn is as prolific as she is passionate. The Year 3 final piece of work enabled children to show their understanding of the koru shape through the medium of pottery, all inspired by Raewyn’s work. Pouwhenua (land posts), are carved wooden posts, or fighting staffs used by Maori, the indigenous peoples of New Zealand. Pouwhenua mark territorial boundaries or places of significance. They are generally artistically and elaborately carved and can be found throughout New Zealand. Year 2 designed
Maori masks on paper, before using them to create 3D masks, and shaping them to fit on the pole. Year 5 explored the concept of the haka, why Maori warriors do the haka and what it means to the New Zealand culture. The children explored the concept of ‘facing the challenge’, just like Maori warriors and the All Blacks rugby team do. Year 6 children each selected a section of a complex Maori tattoo design and made individual wooden printing blocks. The designs were printed onto fabric using colours that represent the Maori story of creation – black (the darkness), red (the blood spilt) and the neutral canvas background (the light). Having done so much work around Maori art, the school was invited to contribute an exhibition for the Chester Art Festival, where children from around the region enter pieces into a competition. Having sent photographs of their work over to New Zealand, pupils and teachers at Richmond Road in Auckland took the time to make a video of thanks. “Thank you for sharing your art with us. The face paint looks so real, it looks like you’ve gone back in time,” with another complimenting The Firs on their use of traditional Maori paintings. “It is wonderful to not only see the children really capture the essence of New Zealand art, but also take the time to understand the meaning and cultural significance behind it. Wonderful work.” (newzealand-indepth.co.uk; firsschool.net)
“Year 5 explored the concept of the haka, and what it means to the New Zealand culture”
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Promotion | The CHESHIRE Magazine
No such thing as
a daft question The Albert Einstein quote “Education is what remains after you have forgotten everything that you learned at school” is perhaps a strange thing to hear a headmaster tell his pupils. But this is exactly what Dr Simon Hyde, head of The King’s School in Macclesfield, tells those who join his school
T
he point he is making is that it is not the facts and equations that these pupils will study that will help them to be successful in life. It is the skills they will learn whilst at King’s – to cooperate, to persevere if they find things tough, to question things and challenge ideas that are presented to them, and to become independent learners – that will ultimately make them successful in their chosen field. “Learning at King’s is about developing a lifelong love of learning and inquisitive minds that naturally want to explore, investigate, ask questions and find out the answers for themselves,” says Simon. “It might sound to some people like teachers are doing themselves out of jobs, but my view is that it’s actually harder to deliver our style of lesson than it is a series of facts in the way previous generations were taught.” King’s has actually built its curriculum around this philosophy. Alongside all the usual course content, King’s students will be developing five crucial life skills, or ‘learning habits’, in every lesson. And it seems to be a successful strategy – King’s has been ranked in The Times Top 200 Independent Schools for A-Level results for the last two years, with more than 80 per cent of all grades at A* to B and a good number of each year’s cohort going on to Oxbridge and other Russell group universities.
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King’s learning habits, designed to ‘develop lively and enquiring minds’, are: • Resilience: emotional toughness in dealing with situations that pupils find hard. • Reasoning: being careful, methodical and logical. • Questioning: having enquiring minds which can ask good questions and then investigate them, as well as questioning and challenging ideas. • Reflecting: being able to learn from mistakes and reflect on successes to improve and plan ahead. • Collaborating: team work and the skills of listening and empathy. “As a school, we want our pupils to feel confident enough to take risks and grapple with challenging issues, as well as pose their own questions, and sometimes voice a different opinion without fear of doing so,” he says. “There is no such thing as a daft question, because we want our pupils to demonstrate inquisitiveness and resilience. We encourage them to go beyond the curriculum, to discuss and explore. In doing so, pupils are demonstrating life skills sought by universities and employers.” “We encourage all our pupils to participate in a wide range of activities and develop their passions both inside and outside the classroom. Our academic results are so excellent because of – not in spite of – this balanced approach.” (kingsmac.co.uk)
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Family
Mirror, Mirror
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reat your little prince or princess with a couture costume courtesy of French atelier, Ivoy Paris. Using only the most luxurious fabrics, Ivoy have created a wide range of fairytale costumes to make all children’s dreams come true. From princes and princesses to Spanish dancers and pirates, they have a costume for every possible character, all of which are available on the Ivoy website. The company also makes party dresses and bespoke wedding attire for pageboys and flower girls. (ivoyparis.com)
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On Saturday 14 May, join us in celebrating the second annual Pink Ribbon Ball, Manchester at the stunning Manchester Cathedral. Last year the spectacular event raised over £110,000 to help fund vital breast cancer research that saves lives. This year, your ticket will include a Champagne reception, three course meal with wine catered by Harvey Nichols, top entertainment and an auction of unique money can't buy prizes. Tickets cost £150 per person or £1,500 per table of ten.
We believe that if we all act now, by 2050 no one will die from breast cancer. For more information or to book tickets: pinkribbonball@breastcancernow.org 0207 749 4106
homes and
interiors showcasing the
finest HOMES & PROPERTY IN CHESHIRE AND BEYOND
The bare NECESSITIES Scandi-interiors guru Anne Line Hansen talks investment pieces and Danish style
the wabe, london, on the market for ÂŁ15 million (see page 170)
Homes & interiors news
The great outdoors Winter may be on its way, but that’s not to say you have to banish your summer furniture to the shed. Coco Wolf has launched its own range of British-made bespoke luxury outdoor furniture that is well and truly made to live outside. Elegant and durable, this collection uses the latest technology and hard-wearing materials to withstand the great British weather with quick-dry cushions and high-quality fabrics. And while this range is made to last, it certainly doesn’t compromise on style or luxury. Coco Wolf (0207 262 8614; cocowolf.co.uk)
Trend update: Tru Kitchen, Wilmslow When it comes to worktops, many people initially think of natural materials such as granite or marble. However, advanced technology means there are now some beautiful and highly durable man-made alternatives such as quartz, Corian, porcelain and ceramics. The benefits of these are numerous, creating a smooth and slim-line appearance as, while still highly durable, these thinner worktops can be used to emphasise a kitchen’s clean lines, and lend themselves perfectly for use in a contemporary style room. 56 Alderley Road, Wilmslow, SK9 1NY (01625 533 111; trukitchen.co.uk)
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Wall to wall Wallpaper doesn’t come more attention-grabbing than this offering by Damien Hirst. Showcasing his favourite motif once again, the wallpaper displays a kaleidoscopic view of butterflies. The style takes inspiration from the obsessive trend for collecting natural history in the Victorian era and creates an almost psychedelic pattern. It’s sure to take centre stage in any room. Damien Hirst Butterfly wallpaper, £700 per roll, Other Criteria (othercriteria.com)
Wooster & Stock (@woosterstock) Leather takes centre stage as the interior design trend of the moment
#interiorstip Interiors HQ (@interiorsHQ) Opting for dining furniture? Go for tables and chairs with pine and oak finishing
W e b w at c h :
Bedside tables We LOVE:
amode.co.uk wayfair.co.uk lauraashley.com
“A room should never allow the eye to settle in one place. It should smile at you and create fantasy.” Juan Montoya, interior designer
Another accolade Hale based ABODA Living has picked up two more awards at the prestigious Northern Design Awards ceremony. They won Best Luxury Home for Carrwood in Hale Barns and Best Architectural Design Concept for their latest project on North Road in Hale, adding to the Manchester Society of Architects award they won earlier in the year in the Best One-Off House (unbuilt category). Remarking on the awards, ABODA Living’s MD Mark Oakes commented, “We are delighted that we have been recognised again. The completed 60 Carrwood and the designs for the forthcoming North Road truly illustrate what ABODA Living is all about; unique, contemporary, beautiful homes. We create a seamless flow between inside and outside with our residences, offering the ultimate in contemporary luxury open plan living.” (abodaliving.co.uk)
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Homes & interiors news
Positive start to Cheshire’s property market in 2016 W O R D S : C r i s p i n H a rr i s M R I C S , J a c k so n - S t o p s & S t a f f
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espite the negative predictions of a difficult higher value property market across the UK in 2016, Cheshire and Chester appear to be bucking the national trend. Stamp duty reform in 2014 may have played a part in the national picture. However, during the last quarter of 2015, our Wilmslow and Hale offices saw a significant uplift in sales across our whole market place. There is strong demand for sensibly priced property, and signs are that demand in certain sectors may now begin to outstrip supply, especially in good roads in Wilmslow, Alderley Edge, Knutsford, Prestbury, Hale, Bowdon, Altrincham and outlying villages. Analysis of the Chester market reveals an improvement on the year before, and with interest rates forecast to stay low for another year or two, next year should be promising and build on the steady growth of the previous two years.
How does your garden grow? Thinking of calling in the experts to give your garden a re-vamp this year? Botanica Garden Design is an award winning Wirral-based garden design and landscaping company, boasting 22 years’ experience and priding itself on creating gardens which are both beautiful and functional. You’ll be assigned an expert in-house garden designer who’ll help tailor your design concept to your exact style, taste and budget, ensuring that the end product reflects your vision down to the last detail. Now celebrating its 22nd birthday, the company has recently expanded to offer resin driveways too, meaning that it’s now easier than ever to get your outdoor space looking spic and span. (botanicagardendesign.com)
Finishing touch An appreciation of contemporary classic interiors and beautiful fragrances hasn’t failed Lilou et Loïc yet, and its new ideas are no different. With bath foams, hand washes and candles in a whole host of aromas, the company describes itself as ‘a British brand with Scandinavian sensibility’ and has created some soothing scents for the winter season. Its Spiced Pomander fragrance is a warm blend of cinnamon and clove – ideal for creating cosy interiors. (lilouetloic.com)
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EE FR N SI K N BI CA *
ET
Buy a kitchen
& THE SINK CABINET IS ON US We’re giving away a free sink cabinet worth up to £975 when you spend £8,000 or more on any kitchen* All you have to do is choose the style and colour - take a look at neptune.com This is our Suffolk kitchen, lovingly hand-painted in Charcoal, priced from £14,000
Neptune Wilmslow, SK9 1BJ, 01625 535255, info@neptunewilmslow.com * Free sink base cabinet offer closes 31/01/2016. For full details please ask in-store or visit neptune.com/offers
Cheshire_Magazine_Kitchen_OS_JAN_2016.indd 1
01/12/2015 09:12:06
INSPIRATION
the bare
necessities Dubbed the net-a-porter for the home, esensualliving.com is fast establishing a reputation for its covetable homeware brands. Lauren Romano meets co-founder Anne Line Hansen to talk about revolutionising the way we shop online
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obody’s perfect, even the former general manager of Roger Vivier, Giorgio Armani and Chanel has her foibles. “I suppose I’m quite a picky person,” Anne Line Hansen begins reflectively over her toasted cheese sandwich in the Parlour at Sketch. “It drives my colleagues mad because I have this condition where I remember everything,” she smiles. Admittedly as faults go, a razor-sharp memory hasn’t served Hansen too badly. Having climbed the commercial ladder to the dizzying sartorial heights mentioned above (she attended ‘real-life university’ chez Ralph Lauren and helped Mr Armani launch Armani Privé), Hansen has hung up her fashion mantle and fallen for her other weakness: textiles. Launched last month by Hansen and her business partner, former editor of Architectural Digest France and Maison Française, Alexandra d’Arnoux, esensualliving.com has already been branded the net-a-porter of the interiors world. Rare finds from brands including Gaia & Gino, Morpho + Luna and Creel and Gow, are
above: Anne Line Hansen.Photo by Christophe Roué Left: Aerial III Rug by TAI PING. Photo by Vincent Thibert
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INSPIRATION
left to right: Cali Vase Silver by GAIA & GINO. Photo by Vincent Thibert; Ecume Des Jours Hand Towels and Alize Bath Robe by Nina Ricci. Photo by Frédéric Ducout
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curated by Hansen and contextualised in beautifully shot product pages. The retail experience is meant to be akin to flicking through a magazine. There’s shoppable film footage and a journal section featuring exclusive designer interviews, brand stories and even city guides, where renowned tastemakers share their personal address books. David Rockwell gives his bite-sized chunk of the Big Apple while Alda Fendi spills the beans about Rome. The Esensual Living common denominator is quality. “I have a natural affinity for things that are well made,” Hansen explains. “Once you’ve lived with things that are innately crafted how can you live with something that isn’t?” I want the right cashmere, the right linen. Libeco is one of my favourite brands of all time,” she says, taking me on a virtual tour down the bed linen and towels aisle with a quick tap at her laptop. “It’s made in the Flemish part of Belgium. I’m constantly travelling for work, and whenever I step off a plane somewhere new, before I head to a meeting, I try to discover local crafts. These brands are what define a country. It’s almost as if I’ve taken the best of Asian, European and American design and merged it into one universe,” she explains proudly. Born in Denmark but based in Paris for 25 years, Hansen and the Esensual Living team,
all with the exception of d’Arnoux, are currently in the process of relocating to London to establish the brand, following its soft launch across the Channel. “London is such a cosmopolitan city, which caters to the world, hence the reason that you have such an influx of tastes and inspiration,” Hansen says. Her target audience is based here too and she believes that like most time-poor individuals, they want to be engaged and surprised by their online encounters. “I’m a consumer,” she explains. “As I see it esensualliving.com is about creating access to products, some of which are from established brands and some that are pretty much undiscovered, but the common thread is craftsmanship and artisanal know-how. Unfortunately I think what we are seeing in large cities, and smaller cities too, for that matter, is by and large quite generic.” She recounts working with clients within the lifestyle and design industry and how it occurred to her that a lot of them were failing to address the end consumer. “In other words, there are so many what I would call ‘silent brands’ that may not be very strong at marketing but that are the most amazing craftsmen. Over the course of many years I
Homes and Interiors
have been distributing business cards to my interior decorator and architect friends and then one day I thought, ‘there’s a business to be built here’.” If the jump from retail to e-tail has been a difficult one Hansen has clearly taken it in her stride. As she shows me around the site it’s clear that she’s been involved in even the most pernickety of details. The most challenging
part she admits has been to convey the tactile nature of the materials, which is why much of the budget has been allocated to beautiful photography. Another sizeable chunk has been spent on the final frontier in retail innovation: the shoppable film. It does as the name suggests, and as Hansen helpfully demonstrates: “I press play, I spot this vase, I want this vase; I click. I like this plate; I click,”
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INSPIRATION
totting up a shopping trolley of seriously desirable goods along the way. But has she picked up items like this for her own home? She mentions her “small place” in Paris’ 1st arrondissement, and hints at her London home – “where we live there are trees! If I want to see trees in Paris I have to go to the Tuileries,” – but doesn’t divulge too much about the décor. “I don’t have room any more,” she laughs. “I am very prone to textiles but I have to give things to my nephews and my mother.” Her notion of home is very much wrapped up in comfort and the familiar. “Once you’ve been travelling or stressing around in the city all day, you want to come home and feel like you’re in a soothing environment, where all your senses are stimulated, from the scents to the materials you wrap yourself up in,” she says. Accordingly, one of the latest Esensual Living additions is an edit of carefully selected natural and organic wellbeing products, including WOO candles handcrafted in recycled wine and vodka bottles and perfumed ornaments by Laura Tonatto. Talk turns to the much imitated Scandi aesthetic. Hansen insists that interior décor hailing from her native neck of the woods is not just all about one minimalist look. “My father always liked to say that buying inexpensively can be very expensive over the course of a lifetime. It’s quite a Scandinavian attitude. When you move away from home you save up for an Arne Jacobsen Egg. You’d rather have one chair than go to Ikea and buy six,” she explains. “There is an innate understanding about lasting quality. You’d sit on the floor until you could afford a whole set.” Esensual Living certainly stocks plenty of homewares worth saving for. I’ve got my eye on a handmade Tai Ping rug, a snip at only several thousand pounds. It’s all about those little finishing touches after all. (esensualliving.com)
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Easyclip bed linen by Lissoy. Photo by Caroline Menne
Anne Line Hansen’s top winter picks Mimetico throw, £160 Cecchi e Cecchi
Eva robe, £604 Morpho + Luna
Cali vase, £390 Gaia & Gino
Gabriel square pillowcase £54, Alexandre Turpault
Wine bottle candle £32, WOO
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10/12/2015 12:32
jackson-stops.co.uk
Mottram St Andrew A luxurious, classically designed, French inspired mansion house with wonderful views.
• 3 reception rooms • 4 bedrooms (all en suite) • integral 1 bedroom annexe • garaging • paddocks • stable yard • woodland • hard tennis court • summer house • in all about 13.5 acres • EPC - B Guide Price: £4,350,000
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Wilmslow 01625 540 340 wilmslow@jackson-stops.co.uk
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Swettenham An exemplary historic Victorian country house nestled in superb gardens.
• 2 reception rooms • music room • library • garden room • orangery • leisure room • media room • billiard room • 6 bedrooms (1 en suite, 1 with sitting/dressing room) • 2 bathrooms • 2 bedroom annexe • garaging • planning permission for outdoor swimming pool • approximately 3 acres • EPC – E Price on Application
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Wilmslow 01625 540 340 wilmslow@jackson-stops.co.uk
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Goostrey A charming Country Estate within easy reach of Alderley Edge. The Manor House - 3 reception rooms The Cottage – 3 bedrooms
• study • kitchen/breakfast room • 7 bedrooms • 3 bathrooms • integral staff flat • large Listed barn • garaging/stabling • tennis court • swimming pool
• in all about 28.5 acres • viewing strictly by appointment Guide Price: £3,750,000
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Alderley Edge
Buxton
Planning permission to build a modern masterpiece or a traditional Alderley villa.
A spacious family house sitting in wonderful mature gardens.
• existing 5 bed bungalow – EPC – F • Design 1 – 7,147 sq ft • Design 2 – 7,082 sq ft
• 5 reception rooms • 6 bedrooms • bathrooms • gym • leisure suite • tennis court • about 1.4 acres • EPC – E
Guide Price: £1,595,000
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Guide Price: £1,250,000
Wilmslow 01625 540 340 wilmslow@jackson-stops.co.uk
Offices in London and across the country
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Alderley Edge A newly constructed 14,000 sq ft Georgian style country house with an outstanding specification.
• 4 reception rooms • 6 bedrooms (all en suite) • leisure suite with pool, Jacuzzi, playroom, games room & gym • garaging • just over 1 acre • EPC - B Guide Price: £4,950,000
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Mottram St Andrew An outstanding meticulously designed 10,000 sq ft house with 21st Century fittings.
• 3 reception rooms • day room • 5 bedrooms (all en suite) • leisure suite with pool • garaging with media room/staff apartment above • approximately 1.5 acres • EPC - B Guide Price: £4,950,000
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Wilmslow 01625 540 340 wilmslow@jackson-stops.co.uk
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Great Budworth
Wilmslow
Grade II Listed 17th Century cottage within Great Budworth village.
A wonderful period family house with immeasurable charm.
• 2 reception rooms • 3 bedrooms • bathroom • courtyard garden
• 3 reception rooms • 5 bedrooms • bathroom • 1 bedroom cottage • garaging • gardens • EPC - F
Guide Price: £350,000
Guide Price: £825,000
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Prestbury
Sutton
A substantial family house with state of the art specification.
A Grade II Listed Georgian country house with scope for enlargement/updating.
• 3 reception rooms • 6 bedrooms • 5 bathrooms • leisure suite with pool • garaging with flat above • gardens • EPC – C Guide Price: £2,650,000
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• 2 reception rooms • 4 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms • garaging with studio above • approximately 1/2 an acre Guide Price: £750,000
Wilmslow 01625 540 340 wilmslow@jackson-stops.co.uk
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CGI
Kermincham
Over Alderley
A stunning contemporary barn conversion with lovely gardens.
A magnificent, newly constructed, Alderley villa.
• 3 reception rooms • 3 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms • garaging • gardens • EPC – C
• 4 reception rooms • 6 bedrooms • 5 bathrooms • leisure suite & media room • garaging • just over 11 acres in total • EPC (existing) - E
Guide Price: £750,000
Guide Price: £2,695,000
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Wilmslow
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Alderley Edge
A 6,000 sq ft family house with south-facing gardens on a sought-after road. A magnificent newly constructed Alderley villa.
• 6 reception rooms • snooker room • gym • 5 bedrooms (all en suite) • garaging • over half an acre • EPC - E
• 4 reception rooms • 5 bedrooms (all en suite) • leisure suite with pool & gym • garaging • gardens • EPC - B
Guide Price: £2,295,000
Guide Price: £2,950,000
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Wilmslow 01625 540 340 wilmslow@jackson-stops.co.uk
Offices in London and across the country
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Appleton An outstanding detached family house with a self-contained annexe & views across Warrington Golf Course.
• 2 reception rooms • study • living room • snug • conservatory • 4 bedrooms (2 en suite) • bathroom • garaging • annexe • gardens • EPC – D Guide Price: £1,150,000
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Grappenhall A contemporary barn conversion with outstanding rural views.
• 2 reception rooms • 4 bedrooms (2 en suite) • bathroom • garaging • gardens • EPC – E Guide Price: £845,000
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Hale 0161 928 8881 hale@jackson-stops.co.uk
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Bowdon A magnificent family house in an exclusive development adjacent to The Devisdale.
• 3 reception rooms • study • cinema • 6 bedrooms (5 en suite) • gym • home office • garaging • approximately 2/3 of an acre • EPC – C Guide Price: £2,950,000
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Altrincham A handsome detached property set in stunning private grounds enjoying a delightful Westerly aspect.
• 3 reception rooms • media room • 5 bedrooms (4 en suite) • gym • shower room • potential for annexe • games room • just over half an acre • EPC – C Guide Price: £2,250,000
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Hale 0161 928 8881 hale@jackson-stops.co.uk
Offices in London and across the country
Technology central words: Iain Warde
Serve up the latest tech... From golden pots to a fully-functioning kitchen in a box, the most expensive kitchen appliances – whilst extravagant – can actually be practical. We’ve gathered here some of the most luxurious gadgets from the kitchens of high society
USP: All-in-one fridge and much more – and it can make your coffee! £24,800 (meneghiniarredamenti.com)
Super Fridge Meneghini La Cambusa With this ‘super’ fridge you may not need a kitchen at all... The Meneghini La Cambusa unit can be custom fitted with a range of gadgets and gizmos to suit your lifestyle. These include coffee maker, ice maker, temperature controlled pantry and flat-screen television. Looking more like an antique piece of furniture it’s not for the faint-pocketed. And at nearly
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£25,000 I don’t think they’ll be flying out the shop doors. Especially as each one is custom-made in Italy. After you’ve chosen the wooden frame (that’s £17,000 spent) which can be painted more than 500 colours, there’s brass handles, glass shelving and fridge and freezer units to think of - all at an extra cost. Then there’s the must-have gadgets; a Miele coffee system, is
popular, I am told, as is the Robey’s ice-maker, making it the perfect accompanient to any pool party,. The three-door La Cambusa measures 8.2ft wide, weighs 1,100 pounds and includes 26.6 cubic feet of storage space. Fear not, there are cheaper versions in the Menghini range, Nigella owns a cream version of La Ghiacciaia at a mere £9,000.
Homes and Interiors
OTHER MUST HAVES...
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Hewlett Packard, Microsoft and Apple have one notso-obvious thing in common – they were all started in a garage
Fissler China’s Pot of Gold A pot made of gold. If that’s not enough, go for the diamond embellished version. USP: It’s made of gold; do you need any more than that!? You will have to go to Fissler in China to purchase it, though. £380,000 (fisslerstore.com)
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Kalamazoo 900 Series FreeStanding Hybrid Grill Some say wood-fired is better, others bet on coal-fuelled grills, but what about a barbecue that works with whatever you supply it with – gas, wood or coal? USP: Massive double tier grill. Coal, gas or wood can be used. £10,100 (kalamazoogourmet.com)
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Thermomix kitchen robot The ultimate kitchen appliance. It weighs, steams, kneads, grates, mashes, simmers, whisks, crushes and mills, replacing the tasks of at least a dozen other kitchen gadgets. USP: Does more than any conventional kitchen helper we have seen. £885 (thermomix. vorwerk.com)
The Levitating Pen Hyper-luxe mini-gadget brand S.T. Dupont has joined forces with Star Wars to create the world’s first luxury writing instrument in levitation. Dedicated to the magnificent lightsabers of Darth Vader and Master Yoda, The Haute Creation Star Wars collection is limited to eight of each variation worldwide. Mimicing the film, the lightsaber of Darth Vader is mounted with a two carat red topaz and that of Yoda is mounted with a two carat green topaz. The creations are fashioned from bronze with black lacquer, palladium and rhodium finishes. May the Force be with you. £20,000 (st-dupont.com)
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W: j a n e y b u t l e r . c o . u k E: hello@janeybutler.co.uk T:
01625 861935
The Old Stables, Capesthor ne Hall, Nr Alder ley Edge , Cheshire . SK11 9JY By Appointment
Homes and Interiors
RECREATE THE LOOK
In the bedroom
W
hether it’s a master bedroom, a guest room or a children’s nursery, a bedroom is a sanctuary, a safe harbour from life’s trials and tribulations, and a huge deciding factor in the quality of your sleep (which, after all, affects how well-equipped you are to deal with everything else life throws at you). With so many choices out there, designing your home’s sleeping quarters can be rather overwhelming – but never fear, for we have all the trends, tricks and expert tips you’ll need to create the perfect bedroom.
image: farrow & ball Wallpaper: Samphire BP 4004 Wall: Wevet® Estate® Emulsion Woodwork: Wevet® Estate® Eggshell Floor: Pavilion Gray® Floor Paint
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RECREATE THE LOOK
Top Tips 1. Kids’ bedrooms
“Designed to inspire young minds, a nursery or bedroom should be playful, unique, imaginative and filled with personality-driven pieces that grow with the child and inject a real wow factor into the room. From hand-painted furniture to reading corners, and car beds to life-size plush animals – embrace this space for true creative freedom!” Ali Lovegrove, Director of Gigi Brooks (all products available from gigibrooks.com)
2. Storage
Our favourite bedroom storage solution right now is the lift-base bed; a neat, simple solution to all that clutter that doesn’t ever seem to have a home (and, of course, all those spare duvets, pillows, bolsters and throw cushions). Bed brand Time4Sleep has a fabulous range that’s well worth checking out. (time4sleep.co.uk)
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3. Master bedrooms
“As well as being comfortable and practical, a bedroom should be a room whose every aspect we love, so that we fall asleep feeling relaxed and wake up feeling inspired. Neptune bedrooms are designed to help you do just that, using beautiful, timeless designs, clever detailing and an understated palette to create a perfect sanctuary.” John Sims-Hilditch, Co Founder of Neptune (neptune.com)
Promenade Wedgewood Blue Wallpaper, £78, IN-SPACES (in-spaces.com)
available from neptune wilmslow (neptune.com)
5. Soothing hues
Tivoli Urn Table Lamp, £129.00 Kyoto Sepia Cushion, £49.50 Sebastian Side Table, £195.00
4. Guest bedrooms
“Guest bedrooms need to be warm and welcoming, as opposed to an afterthought. The little touches are everything. A luxurious throw over the bed, a hot water bottle already filled and under the covers, bottled water, a tray with warming nightcap, a bathroom basket of bathing goodies, some recent magazines, a radio, scented candle and a big fluffy robe with disposable slippers. None of these need cost a fortune, but they will make all the difference. Finish off with a bedside table lamp with a gentle light, and the scene is set for sweet dreams.” Alison Cork, founder of WITHIN Homes (products available from withinhome.com)
Even if you’re the boldest of the lot when it comes to interiors – your home awash with bright colours, statement pieces and boundary-pushing trends – your bedroom needs to be psychologically suitable for sleep. It’s no coincidence that nurseries are traditionally decked out in pale pastels, a palette which sooths, comforts and helps you relax – and soft, muted colour options can be incorporated into any bedroom if planned and used correctly.
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Homes and Interiors
RECREATE THE LOOK #2
#1
A SUITE AT HOTEL GOTHAM (hotelgotham.co.uk)
#3 #7
#4
#6 #5
A TOUCH OF GOTHAM #1 Vintage Rusted Brass Industrial Angled Desk Lamp, £130.50, The Farthing (thefarthing.co.uk) #2 Ava Bed, £819, Living It Up (livingitup.co.uk) #3 Honeycomb Bolster Cushion, £90, Claire Alderdice Textiles (clairealderdice.com) #4 French Chair in Pink with Black Frame (Yolande), £275, Out There Interiors (outthereinteriors.com) #5 Saffron Black Rug, £249, Living It Up (livingitup.co.uk) #6 Vintage style ornamental Suitcase Money Box, £21.95, Melody Maison (melodymaison.co.uk) #7 Lady Grey Faux Fur Throw, £280, The Fine Cotton Company (thefinecottoncompany.com)
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Wireless speakers that make a statement
gardens
THE GREAT INDOORS From small scale exotics to hanging gardens, there are many inventive ways to display your plants inside and add a creative edge to your living space – though none so quirky as the humble terrarium hammered copper pots, from £24.99 (miafleur.com)
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riginally used to transport plants between Britain and her distant colonies, the terrarium has become a cult symbol over the years. No hip modern home is complete without one – a far cry from 1829, when English doctor Nathaniel Bagshaw Ward first noticed a fern growing well inside a sealed glass jar while others in his
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garden withered and died. After some observation and experimentation, he devised what would become known as the Wardian Case – an antique-looking glass enclosure that was soon enabling plant specimens to survive sea journeys to India, Australia and beyond. Modern terrariums emerged in the 60s and
Homes and Interiors
70s, with their miniature ecosystems chiming with new found appreciation for the fragility of our planet. Publications like the Whole Earth Catalog and other DIY manuals abounded, making terrariums an
integral part of many a childhood. Today, Ward’s original design remains a retro classic, while a new generation of designers are crafting a third wave of beautiful and unusual terrariums.
Our top picks: #2 Geometric 3D Terrarium Perfect for air plants (Tillandsia), this adds a definite talking point to your living space. DingaDing Terrariums (en.dawanda.com)
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#1 Brass Terrarium Apart from being an adorable mini garden, this also works beautifully as a candle lantern on a shelf. Skilfully made by fair trade artisans. (decoratorsnotebook.co.uk)
3 #3 Teardrop Terrarium This beautiful terrarium comes almost ready to go. All you have to do is take the plant from its bag and inset into the teardrop. Can be hung, but can also sit on any flat surface. (berryred.co.uk)
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Homes and Interiors
gardens
#2 #1
#5
#4
#3
There ARE plenty of other striking ways to present your plants too... #1 Boskke Sky Planter (thedesigngiftshop.com) #2 Macrame plant hanger(etsy.com) #3 Geometric Plant Pouch (cranmorehome.com.au) #4 Budha Head Planter (etsy.com) #5 Felt Planter Pods (upcyclestudio.com.au)
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RESIN BOUND DRIVEWAYS
Botanica Resin Bound.... At BRB we pride ourselves on the design and installation of beautiful resin bound driveways. This product has all the aesthetical beauty of a quintessential English gravel driveway, combined with the lowest maintenance of all the other surface choices. It is tough, durable and completely permeable. A Botanica Resin Bound Drive will enhance the look of any property and continue doing so for many years to come. The product comes with a 18 year guarantee that covers cracking, oil stains, loose stones and UV discolouration. Resin bound gravel can be laid directly over suitable tarmac drives or installed from scratch.
GARDEN DESIGN Botanica Garden Design is an award winning Cheshire-based garden design and landscaping company, with over 20 years experience in creating exquisite and classical contemporary gardens in Cheshire and the surrounding counties. Our in-house garden designer will work with you every step of the way, from the concept stage through to the completion of the garden build. We strive to offer the finest of services with outstanding quality and attention to detail. In the past 20 years Botanica has built a reputation as one of Cheshire’s finest garden design and build companies.
Botanica Garden Design Cable Road, Hoylake, Wirral. CH47 2AY 0151 632 0909 07779 024 853 info@botanicagardendesign.com www.botanicagardendesign.com
Approved Installer of the year 2015
Winner Botanica Resin Bound Driveways
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Botanica Resin Bound Driveways Cable Road, Hoylake, Wirral. CH47 2AY 0151 632 0909 07779 024 853 info@botanicaresinbound.co.uk www.botanicaresinbound.co.uk
New showroom opening soon in Bollington Cheshire
t: 01704 544 222 e: info@portraitpools.com w: portraitpools.com
HOT PROPERTY our SHORTLIST OF top properties on the market in and AROUND cheshire
BERRISTALL RISE BOLLINGTON
This property could be compared to a lodge on the foothills of the Swiss Alps with its unrivalled views across Bollington and the skylines of Cheshire and the hills of The Peak District beyond. The semi-rural
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location is a dream for those searching for somewhere to escape the daily hustle and bustle, with a footpath to the hills on its doorstep, yet granting easy access to Bollington, with its many restaurants, charming pubs with real ales brewed in the village, traditional butchers and bakers and a small national supermarket. The mainline train from Macclesfield Station (4.2 miles away) to London Euston brings the capital to within one hour, 50 minutes and Manchester airport, for those trips farther afield, is only 14 miles away. The main accommodation is accessed by steps leading up to the glazed porch and a light and airy entrance hall, a principal living room, with views and patio doors onto the garden. A beautiful open plan
streamlined kitchen/dining room makes for a superb family room, whether for entertaining or to sit and enjoy the wood burning stove. There is a master bedroom and four other bedrooms allowing flexible living with the potential to be used as bedrooms, reception rooms or office space. The property is capable of providing an excellent family home, both inside and out, with a double garage and treatment room on the lower level, separate to the main accommodation, while the property would also suit those who wish to run a business from home. On the market at ÂŁ575,000 with Harvey Scott Estate Agents, 29 Palmerston Street, Bollington, Macclesfield, SK10 5PX (01625 576222; harveyscott.com)
Homes and Interiors
WOODSIDE FARM MINSHULL VERNON
Woodside Farm is a fine Grade II listed country house with delightful southfacing gardens and has the benefit of a spacious adjoining one-bedroom annexe, outbuildings, woodland with stream and about six acres of pasture land. The well-proportioned and beautifully-presented accommodation is laid over three floors and retains many period features, including panel window shutters, panel doors and open fireplaces. The ground floor accommodation is positioned off the entrance hallway and includes an appealing drawing room, a focal point being the open fireplace, with cast iron grate, set upon a stone hearth and exposed beams. A door from here leads to the charming garden room which has double doors opening to a sunny terrace with pergola adorned with a fruitful grape
vine, making this a wonderful peaceful retreat and perfect outdoor dining area. On the opposite side of the hall is the dining room with exposed floorboards, ornate ceiling and open fireplace, a study with wc off and a pantry/utility room. Access down to the cellar is off the hall. The kitchen/breakfast room is well-fitted and gives access to the rear porch which, in turn, offers access to the garden room. Stairs from the hall rise to the first floor galleried landing where there is an excellent bedroom
suite with dressing room, having fitted wardrobes and en-suite bathroom. There are two further bedrooms, both with fitted wardrobes, one en-suite and a separate shower room serving bedroom three. The second floor provides two generous bedrooms, one with walk-in wardrobe, feature fireplaces and a shower room. The adjoining Keepers Cottage provides useful dependant relative/office accommodation and comprises entrance hall, cloakroom with WC, fitted kitchen, sitting/dining room with feature electric fireplace and sliding doors opening onto a sunny terrace, a double bedroom and a large en-suite shower room. On the market at a guide price of ÂŁ950,000 with Strutt & Parker, Park House, 37 Lower Bridge Street, Chester, CH1 1RS (01244 354888; struttandparker.com)
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PROPERTY PICK
SWISS
STYLE
Snap up one of these beautiful chalets in this fashionable corner of the Swiss Alps, complete with every luxury and a view to die for
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Homes and Interiors
T
he eagerly-anticipated second phase of the exclusive Les Chalets d’Adelaide has just been unveiled, a sleek and stylish development situated in Grimentz, a village in the district of Sierre in the Swiss Alpine canton of Valais. Available off-plan, the ski-in/ski-out properties are located just beside the piste in one of the resort’s most coveted locations, with stunning views across the Val d’Anniviers, one of Europe’s most visually stunning Alpine valleys. The charming village of Grimentz lies at an altitude of 1,570m, meaning that it boasts excellent snow from quite early in the season and is known for offering the sunniest skiing in the country (after all, what’s a glass of lunchtime Valais Syrah on the slopes without the requisite big, blue sky?). It dates back to the 15th century and contains many original chalets and farm buildings, giving the village a unique historic charm. In January 2014, the long-awaited cable car opened for business, linking Grimentz to the nearby resort of Zinal which, together with St Luc, now joins together a total of 220kms of piste – all accessible on the same lift pass. A range of apartments and nine detached chalets are available, with each chalet’s interior built to order, meaning that you can design the layout to your own exact
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PROPERTY PICK
specifications. The chalets and apartments are built from locally-sourced wood and stone, benefiting from their very own concierge and serviced by a new boutique hotel with state-of-the-art spa and wellness facilities. Inside, the chalets and apartments are awash with beautiful clean lines, light woods and simple, sleek features, including wide floor-to-ceiling doors, overhead beams, spotlights and touches of granite, giving a modern feel without sacrificing a certain rustic charm. Switzerland continues to attract international buyers looking for a safe and secure place to invest while enjoying the benefits associated with living in a country offering the best quality of life in the world. With banks now promising mortgage rates at historic lows, UK buyers can borrow up to 70 per cent of the value of the property with rates starting at 1.2 per cent. For the ultimate hassle-free investment, the lodgings can also be fully managed with expected yields of around 3 per cent – more than enough to cover all the running and financing costs.
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Prices from CHF 819,000 (£542,069) for a two-bedroom 81sqm apartment, to CHF 1,595,000 (£1.055 million) for a four-bedroom 132sqm duplex penthouse. Nine detached chalets are available from CHF 2.355 million (£1.56 million), and two apartments remain for sale in phase one, priced from CHF 786,000 for a two-bedroom 78 sqm apartment. (markwarnerproperty.com/property/ grimentz-adelaide)
Give your plot a fairytale ending Most of us have a dream home in our heads. At Eventus, we’re in the business of turning it into stunning reality. Whether you’re starting with a plot of land, or demolishing and starting again, or need a sensitive redesign of a precious listed property - Eventus are experienced project managers. With the skills, experience and passion to deliver your completed project, on spec, on time and on budget. Discover some of our latest projects at www.eventusproperties.co.uk. Then tell us your dream.
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
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13/08/2015 10:51
overseas property
TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS
Villa Isla, Long Bay Beach
Villa Isla is built on one of the highest beach dunes and comprises five bedrooms and six bathrooms totalling 5,960 sq. ft. of living space. Set within immaculate grounds landscaped with tropical foliage, the property also boasts an expansive beach-side infinity design pool, providing a seamless visual connection from villa to ocean. On the market for $4,200,000 (£2,700,000) with Christie’s International Real Estate (+1 649 441 1151; christiesrealestate.com)
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1 ANDORRA
Valley of Incles Villa This four bedroom property features 650 m2 of living space with a Nordic-style décor and is a typical mountain chalet located in a protected area of Andorra. There are stunning gardens which blend with the surrounding valleys whilst boasting a stunning terrace complete with a pool filled with fresh mountain water. The property is located in the heart of the Pyrenees, and the gardens are a unique environment and categorised as a World Heritage site. €6,000,000 through Andorra Sotheby’s International Realty (+ 376 872 222; andorra-sothebysrealty.com)
Homes and Interiors
SPAIN
Punta Prima, Orihuela Costa, Alicante
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A selection of beautiful contemporary villas with three spacious bedrooms, each property has been designed with the latest contemporary style finishing, boasting incredible floor-to-ceiling windows and a balcony with a glass balustrade. The development is situated in a private gated complex with underground parking and is perfectly located within walking distance of local amenities and the best beaches. Prices from ÂŁ162,000 with Sequre Property Investment (0800 011 2277; sequre.co.uk)
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overseas property
SPAIN
Casares, Costa del Sol This three bedroom modern villa boats a private infinity pool and stunning sea views. The property is finished to an impeccably high standard throughout and features floor-to-ceiling windows, along with a rooftop solarium. The property sits less than 100 metres from the beach and offers fantastic views of the Mediterranean Sea, Gibraltar and Morocco. Available at a guide price of £500,000 with Sequre Property Investment (0800 011 2277; sequre.co.uk)
LONDON
The Wabe, Redington Road, Hampstead
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The Wabe is a stunning house built in 1903 by celebrated mathematician, William Garnett. Home to world-famous actor Tom Conti and his wife Kara Wilson for the past thirty years, the house has a wealth of history, having been the setting for women’s suffrage fundraisers and a focal point for London’s socialites and literati over the past 112 years. Stretching over 0.6 acres, it has a magnificent double-height ballroom with minstrels’ gallery and a large double-height reception space on the top floor, with a roof terrace and stunning views. On the market at £15 million with London Real Estate Advisors (020 3327 2750; londonrea.com; thewabehampstead.co.uk)
All Prices And Exchange Rates Correct At Time Of Print
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FRENCH ALPS
Chalet Apsara, Meribel Les Allues
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Chalet Apsara is located in the Les Allues village a short distance away from the centre of Meribel. Offering the ultimate in mountain living, the fullyfurnished four-bedroom, four-bathroom luxurious ski chalet is the perfect Alpine retreat. The property is designed in a traditional style, combining the use of local timber and stone with state-of-the-art lighting and contemporary bathrooms. Walls are finished in old timber and stucco, with floors featuring granite tiles and grey parquet. The chalet offers a spacious terrace and balcony providing panoramic views of the Tarentaise Valley. The chalet is the perfect retreat for ski devotees looking to take advantage of the famous Three Valleys ski area. On the market for €4.5 million (£3.17 million) with MGM French Properties (mgmfrenchproperties.com)
NORTHERN DESIGN AWARDS WINNER - BEST LUXURY NEW BUILD HOME 2015
L I V E B E A U T I F U L LY 60 CARRWOOD / AN AWARD WINNING LUXURY HOME FROM ABODA LIVING ABODA Living specialises in luxury residential property creating properties of true architectural distinction. Building both speculatively and by client appointment, always using the finest materials to offer beautifully crafted and practical living spaces you’ll be proud to call home. Situated in Hale Barns, this unique contemporary home is presented to the market completed and ready to move in to. The ground floor includes a large open plan kitchen fitted with
Siemens appliances and informal living space, a walk-in pantry and separate utility room, dining room, lounge and study. Upstairs there is a master suite with large terrace, dressing room and generous bathroom, with a further 4 ensuite bedrooms all with either fitted or walk-in wardrobes. To the outside there is a large south facing terrace leading to landscaped gardens with views across open countryside at the rear, a triple garage, extensive driveway, all enclosed with a stunning contemporary style gated entrance affording excellent privacy.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION AND VIEWINGS PLEASE CONTACT MARK OAKES: RIBA AWARDS / WINNER MSA DESIGN AWARDS / WINNER NORTHERN DESIGN AWARDS / WINNER
Aboda Carrwood A4.indd 1
MEN PROPERTY AWARDS / WINNER ROSES DESIGN AWARDS / SILVER
m INFO@ABODALIVING.CO.UK O 0161 929 8186 W WWW.ABODALIVING.CO.UK
24/11/2015 13:20
Cheshire and Manchester’s Leading Independent Estate Agents Visit our new web site www.jordanfishwick.co.uk
Moss Lane, SALE
A stunning one-off, owner designed seven bedroom detached proper ty on Sales’ prestigious Moss Lane that is only six years old. The proper ty is finished in red sandstone and the immaculate internal accommodation combined with stunning contemporary external design create a fabulous Family home.
Guide Price £925,000 Wilmslow and Alderley Edge Office 36/38 Alderley Road, SK91JX Sales: 01625 532000 Lettings: 01625 536300 E: wilmslow@jordanfishwick.co.uk
Hale Office 172 Ashley Road, WA15 9SF Sales: 0161 929 9797 Lettings: 0161 929 9898 E: hale@jordanfishwick.co.uk
Didsbury Office 757-759 Wilmslow Road, M20 6RN Sales: 0161 445 4480 Lettings: 0161 434 5290 E: didsbury@jordanfishwick.co.uk
Macclesfield & Prestbury Office 84-86 Waters Green, SK11 6LH Sales: 01625 434000 Lettings: 01625 502222 E: macclesfield@jordanfishwick.co.uk
Sale Office 95-97 School Road M33 7XA Sales: 0161 962 2828 Lettings: 0161 976 5080 E: sales@jordanfishwick.co.uk
Rossmill Lane, HALE Guide Price ÂŁ3,495,000 Glossop Office 44 High Street West, SK13 8BH Sales: 01457 858888 Lettings: 01457 858888 E: glossop@jordanfishwick.co.uk
An individually designed proper ty nestling in one of the most affluent residential areas. There are gardens to three sides and the floor to ceiling windows embellish the house with an abundance of light and feeling of utter spaciousness. Focused around its stunning live in kitchen and integral leisure suite, the interior is beyond impressive. The leisure suite includes lower level heated pool with stunning lighting, sauna room and a relaxing lounge area. An incredible residence in location to match. Viewing is strictly by appointment only.
Chorlton Office 410-412 Barlow Moor Road, M21 8AD Sales: 0161 860 4444 Lettings: 0161 860 4444 E: chorlton@jordanfishwick.co.uk
Manchester City Centre Office 217 Deansgate M3 3NW Sales: 0161 833 9499 Lettings: 0161 833 9499 E: manchester@jordanfishwick.co.uk
Salford & Media City Office City Point Unit 2, 156 Chapel Street M3 6BF Sales: 0161 833 9499 opt 3 Lettings: 0161 833 9499 opt 2 E: salford@jordanfishwick.co.uk
Northern Quarter Office 45 Tib Street M4 1LT Sales: 0161 833 9494 Lettings: 0161 833 9494 E: nor thernquar ter@jordanfishwick.co.uk
Cheshire and Manchester’s Leading Independent Estate Agents Visit our new web site www.jordanfishwick.co.uk
Mill Lane, Mottram St Andrew Guide Price ÂŁ1,250,000 Wilmslow and Alderley Edge Office 36/38 Alderley Road, SK91JX Sales: 01625 532000 Lettings: 01625 536300 E: wilmslow@jordanfishwick.co.uk
Mill Lodge enjoys an idyllic rural location, occupying a mature plot of approx 4 acres with surrounding views across open countryside. The excellent range of accommodation includes six reception rooms, four bedrooms & three bathrooms. The property lies at the head of a large gated driveway & is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens & grazing land. For those wishing to add to the property, there have been plans put together to showcase what could be created under permitted development, details of which we have available.
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
Corner Croft, Knutsford Price ÂŁ15,000 Per Month Glossop Office 44 High Street West, SK13 8BH Sales: 01457 858888 Lettings: 01457 858888 E: glossop@jordanfishwick.co.uk
Perfectly framed in its own mature gardens, this magnificent new home is in a secluded corner of the prestigious Legh Road conservation area. A house full of surprises, it blends the traditional craftsmanship of the Arts and Crafts movement with the latest in 21st Century living. The emphasis is on lifestyle with its beautifully designed indoor swimming pool and basement packed full of entertainment, Corner Croft brings the pleasures of modern living to its highest level.
Chorlton Office 410-412 Barlow Moor Road, M21 8AD Sales: 0161 860 4444 Lettings: 0161 860 4444 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
Homes and Interiors
BEAUTIFUL THINGS
© Anne Garde
The Land of Kings Allow yourself to be whisked away from the dreariness of city life and immersed into a world of colour and tradition with Rajasthan Style, the third oeuvre from artist Anne Garde’s collaboration with writer Laure Vernière. An introduction by Vernière details the history of the Indian state, from the violence and war between its many kingdoms to the enchanting pink, blue and golden cities that pose as photogenic historical landmarks. The 200 images taken by Garde on her travels capture the beauty of Rajasthan’s people and charming architecture that make the place so enchanting. Rajasthan Style by Laure Vernière and Anne Garde, £55, Assouline (assouline.com)
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W: j a n e y b u t l e r . c o . u k E: hello@janeybutler.co.uk T:
01625 861935
The Old Stables, Capesthor ne Hall, Nr Alder ley Edge , Cheshire . SK11 9JY By Appointment