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Regulars | The CHESHIRE Magazine
From the
Editor
EDITOR’S PICKs #1 Charlotte Olympia Wild Cat Naps (p.19)
#2 Pipework Wall Light (p.134)
W
hat better way to start the year than with a touch of romance, a sprinkle of luxury and a hint of inspiration? Both Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve rank higher than Valentine’s Day in the proposing calendar, so if you are now engaged, congratulations! Let us indulge you with country house weddings (p.48), new, exclusive venues (p.46) and the very latest trends (p.48). And, for those thinking of asking the big question later this year, we’ve some advice from the experts to make it simply perfect (p.46 and p.86). As we settle into a new year, it’s time to think about your holidays, too, romantic or not. Whether you’re a city-break explorer, a winter-sports aficionado or a sun worshipper, we’ve got it covered in our stunning travel section from page 94. We’ve also a dash of inspiration – from Carole Nash, MBE, who became one of the first female insurance brokers in the UK and went on to sell her business for £74million (p.34), and The White Company founder, Chrissie Rucker, who shares her interiors secrets (p.128). And, of course, from Lucas Christer, young ambassador for Variety, the children’s charity, on his plans to play power-chair football for England (p.110). Wishing you a happy and successful 2017 from all of the team,
Louisa
Louisa Castle Editor #3 Rolex Datejust (p.63)
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Contents
February 2017
080
090
056
Features
art
travel
034 | On Her Majesty’s Service Carole Nash, OBE, one of the first female brokers in the UK, talks work, play and giving back to her hometown 043 | Wedding trends With 2017 set to be a big year for weddings, we bring you the most exciting new ideas for food, décor and more 050 | Planning perfection The wedding team at Nunsmere Hall Hotel share their expert top tips to take the stress out of your big day 086 | The art of proposing You like it, and you want to put a ring on it. Here are our top tips to help make sure your proposal goes smoothly
053 | Art & culture news 055 | Prize lots 056 | Strictly speaking The shining stars of Strictly chat to Natalie Anglesey
094 | Travel news 096 | Swiss secret Klosters: favourite of the rich and the royal for half a century 100 | A warm Hellenic welcome Today’s mainland Greece resorts 104 | Weekend away Property investors will love this picture-perfect Cotswolds spot
regulars 008 | Editor’s letter 014 | Contributors 017 | My life in Cheshire Health coach Suzy Glaskie on balance, Bowden and Bollin 018 | Notebook This month’s local events, news and best new products 027 | Local scene All the glamour and gossip 039 | As I was saying... Melissa Porter gives her advice on sticking to the holiday rules that work best for you 048 | Taylor talks Liz Taylor shows us how to celebrate the month of romance in elegant style
collection 062 | Watch news Stunning state-of-the-art timepieces for him and her 064 | Jewellery news A full round-up of all the latest in style and sparkle
fashion & beauty 070 | Fashion news From essential accessories to new trends, it’s all here 072 | Check mate Traditional tartan has had a makeover this season with oversized coats, tailored trousers and flared skirts 078 | Beauty news New treatments, products and all the latest news 080 | A nose for success British perfumier Jo Malone, MBE, talks Jo Loves, fighting back and finally writing her memoirs
motoring 088 | Motoring news From new to vintage, we give the ultimate round-up 090 | A French affair We explore the techie side of Maserati’s newest triumph in Monte Carlo
FAMILY 106 | Kids’ news The very latest for little ones 109 | The classroom 111 | A young ambassador Meet Lucas Christer, young ambassador for Variety
homes & interiors 116 | Interiors news 128 | Putting the world to whites Nobody on earth does highthread count pillowcases or cashmere bed socks quite like The White Company 134 | Case study: how the hotels do it Kudos Dsign gives us a behindthe-scenes glimpse of three of its newest hotel projects 140 | Going vintage The secret of incorporating period pieces into your home 146 | Hot property The best of Cheshire’s homes 154 | The next big thing The Adriatic coast’s biggest opening of 2017: Portonovi 158 | Overseas property These stunning properties will have you yearning to emigrate
Regulars | The CHESHIRE Magazine
FEBRUARY 2017 s i s s ue 0 3 8 s
Editor Louisa Castle
The
contributors
Deputy Editor Gemma Knight Editorial Director Kate Harrison Theatre Editor Natalie Anglesey Brand Consistency Laddawan Juhong Senior Designer Daniel Poole Design Intern Paris Fielder Production Hugo Wheatley Danny Lesar Alice Ford Jamie Steele Advertising Managers Kayleigh Penswick Kathryn Otto Danielle Mullen General Manager Fiona Fenwick Publisher Giles Ellwood
MELISSA PORTER Best known for her BBC prime time appearances, property developer Melissa is a complete people junkie and certified coach and mentor. She brings us a little fun and a lot of life with her column As I was saying...
liz taylor Star of television’s Millionaire Party Planner, Mancunian events organiser Liz creates the region’s most talked-about parties. Her monthly column, Taylor Talks, gives readers an insight into her world, and the people who shape it.
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.
helene sandberg Hailing from Denmark, photographer Helene’s career has included work for French Sole, Dove and Feather and Bone. Her passion lies in creating beautiful, dreamy fashion stories with her style often having a cinematic influence.
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.
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.
Executive Director Sophie Roberts Managing Director Eren Ellwood
Proudly published by
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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 targeted luxury lifestyle publication in Cheshire and the north west, delivered by Royal Mail subscription service to selected homes in over 20 postcodes, plus businesses, newsagents and retail outlets.
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OUR JA NUA RY SALE
W E BELIEV E In doing things differently Year-round discounts aren’t us. Our prices are what they are. We’ll never inf late them so that we can reduce them later. So to honour the tradition of ‘the January sale’, we prefer to give you something instead. Call it a helping hand to do something big or small. It’s an approach that felt more like us. Visit us online to explore our January sale, the Neptune way. And to explore our kitchen collections up-close, we’d love to see you at our Wilmslow store.
neptune.com Neptune Wilmslow, SK9 1BJ, 01625 535255, info@neptunewilmslow.com
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Opening February 2017 www.pistewinebars.com 01270 766129 | 45 high st, sandbach, cheshire cw11 1LA /pistesandbach @pistesandbach
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars
My life in CHESHIRE sUZY gLASKIE, HOLISTIC HEALTH COACH AT PEPPERMINT WELLNESS
“A
© alastair
.com
utterstock
wallace / sh
© Sue Burton pho
tography ltd. /
shutterstock.co
clockwise from top: suzy glaskie; wellness; dunham massey; holistic herbs; ice cream; altrincham market.
m
s a health coach, I love watching people take back control of their health, boost their self-esteem and rediscover their energy,” Suzy explains. “It’s lovely to see someone transform as their digestion improves or their brain fog or skin problems disappear. Although sometimes it can be challenging when I’m spotted out enjoying an ice-cream or something similar, and people sneak a peek and ask why I’m having something sweet!” But Suzy isn’t your average holier-than-thou health coach – in fact, as a mum of three and former managing director of a busy PR agency, she understands better than most where her drained and exhausted professional clients are coming from. “I understand the challenges my clients face,” she says. “They know I won’t just sit there in a cloud of incense, spouting on that they need to mediate for an hour a day. I face the same ups and downs and time constraints as most other working mums and that makes me pretty pragmatic, empathetic and realistic when it comes to coaching others. I’m also training in functional medicine which focuses on getting to the root cause of disease and looks holistically at the body, mind and spirit together to bring the patient back to health and balance.” Having grown up in Didsbury, Suzy has been living in Bowdon for 24 years, since she married her husband. “I can’t really imagine living anywhere else!” she enthuses. “It’s a touch of the countryside but walking distance to Altrincham, and it has so much history. When I was due to have my second son, my husband decided to bring a book on the history of Bowdon to Wythenshawe Hospital because he thought he might be bored. He then proceeded to share what he felt were fascinating nuggets about the history of local churches while I was in labour and not remotely interested in hearing them! “There are so many lovely shops and restaurants around us too. Naturally, I’m a huge fan of The Garden in Hale village – not only for the amazing food, but also for the ethos and energy of the team behind it. They champion wellness professionals from across the North West and I’m really lucky to be a part of that burgeoning community. The Yard in Alderley Edge is always putting on quirky and original events (I recently took part in a rather memorable “gong bath” down a mine), and Altrincham market is a massive favourite of the whole family – particularly on a Sunday morning. Its regeneration is nothing short of a stroke of genius. “As a health coach, I also make a big effort to get outside every day. Luckily, I can walk to my allotment for a potter, or to the Bollin: a river and woods are a perfect recipe for clearing the head – and then Dunham Massey is, of course, stunning at any time of year, and one of my favourite places to go for a walk.” (peppermintwellness.co.uk) 17
seeing double Altrincham based LIFT-Financial have recently been honoured at a special Gold Standard Awards ceremony at the House of Commons - just six financial planning firms nationwide met the required level this year. Not only did they achieve this gold standard in financial planning but they were also presented with Chartered Financial Planning Firm of the Year Award from comic Rory Bremner at a black tie dinner held at Wembley. Congratulations on doing the double! (lift-financial.com)
NOTEBOOK
WOMAN OF THE YEAR Helen Lord of Used Kitchen Exchange has been named as the winner of the Demeter Award at the NatWest Everywoman Awards, one of the UK’s most prestigious for female enterprise. The Demeter Awards recognises the most inspirational woman running a business which has been trading between three and five years. Helen started Used Kitchen Exchange with nothing more than a laptop, phone and a car. Her vision was to offer a complete re-sale service to sellers, as well as providing affordable, quality pre-owned kitchens to buyers and contributing to an efficient environmental solution for used kitchens, preventing high volume MDF going into landfill. Today, the website attracts more than 20,000 visitors a month. We love it! (everywoman.com; usedkitchenexchange.co.uk) 18
TOP TEN
romantic
films to watch this
Valentine’s
day
#1 The Notebook (2004) #2 When Harry Met Sally (1989) #3 Casablanca (1942) #4 Titanic (1997) #5 Pretty Woman (1990) #6 Gone with the Wind (1939) #7 Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004) #8 Ghost (1990) #9 Roman Holiday (1953) #10 Brokeback Mountain (2005)
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars
5 top picks
Slippers
#1 Lynx faux fur slipper boots, £60 (helenmoore.com)
POP THE QUESTION
F
or those wanting to start the new year with a bang – and a proposal – we’ve found the perfect way. How about a candlelit dinner for two at Oddfellows Chester, with Chateaubriand to share and a bottle of rosé Champagne – followed by a lovers’ dessert with two spoons? Then head to the candlelit Grown-Up Bar or Roof Terrace for drinks and ask the question. The space will be solely yours... so no embarrassing public moments and the team can organise anything to help make the moment special, from a violinist and a mariachi band, to rose petals and sparklers. From £200 (oddfellowschester.com)
PURCHASE
#2 Wild cat nap slippers, £395 (charlotteolympia.com)
#3 Sheepskin slippers, £90 (Lucy Choi for Liberty libertylondon.com)
of the
MONTH
#4 Massaging slippers, £75 (holisticsilk.com)
Volume I: Dior by Christian Dior, £130 (assouline.com)
#5 Cashmere pom-pom slippers, £70 (thewhitecompany.com) 19
FIZZ FESTIVAL
NOTEBOOK
Food & Drink I SEA PASTA
January is a time for making healthy decisions for the year to come, and it can be hard to eat the right foods and know what really is good for you. If you’re a pasta fan, then you have to try the tagliatelle from I Sea Pasta. It’s fewer calories and carbs but more nutrients; including iodine, sodium, antioxidants, proteins, calcium, iron and omega-3. There’s recipes galore to try, from bolognese to Caesar salad, and it’s organic, gluten-free and one of the most sustainable foods on the planet, needing only the sunshine to grow. For stockists visit seamorefood.com 20
The People’s Choice Awards at the Fizz Festival is always a fabulous affair, even though competition is fierce. Each visitor has the opportunity to vote for their favourites in each category and there’s a surprising list of producers to choose from. This year’s winner of Best Champagne, sponsored by Slater + Gordon, was family-owned Champagne Thiénot NV Brut, with Hush Heath Balfour Rosé 2012 winning for the Best Sparkling Wine UK, sponsored by Lund Bennett. For the rest of the world, in association with Altrincham Today, it was Narrative Ancient Method Chardonnay 2013, from Canada, imported by Red Squirrel. We look forward to next year and learning lots more about fizz. (crackingwine.co.uk)
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars
PURCHASE of the
MONTH
Casablanca candle, £48 (victoriacator.com)
...with STEVEN TUKE, executive chef for The Vicarage Freehouse & Rooms What is your favourite ingredient? Butter! And I mean the real thing, not a substitute. It has the ability to transform a dish. It adds richness, sweetness, brings out a number of other flavours, and is a key ingredient in most of my favourite sauces and dressings. What is your favourite food? I have a huge sweet tooth, so I’m all about the sugar! Give me a slice of cake with a cup of tea and I’m a happy man. What is your desert island recipe? I’ll never tire of bannoffee pie! A crunchy, thick base with a light, fluffy filling and fresh bananas – plus a dusting of brown sugar. Like I say... sweet tooth! What is your favourite piece of kitchen kit? My knives are my kitchen essentials. A good knife makes all the difference when it comes to perfect presentation. You wouldn’t hack away at a fine piece of fillet steak would you? Also, my thermo mixer. It blends, cooks, weighs, steams... just throw in a combination of beautiful flavours and let the mixer do the rest! (thevicaragecheshire.com)
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Regulars | The CHESHIRE Magazine
SPOTLIGHT ON... Ametsa with Arzak Words: GEMMA KNIGHT
Instruction, London
I
t might not have the world’s catchiest name but, with a Michelin star and three AA rosettes, it’s clear that Ametsa with Arzak Instruction doesn’t really need one. The Arzak in question is the family behind the world-renowned, three Michelin-star Arzak restaurant in San Sebastian and, more specifically, its head chef Elena Arzak, who was ranked the best female chef in the world in 2012. While she doesn’t actually cook at Arzak’s London-based sister, rest assured she is as demonstrably an influence on its menu as on its reputation. Opening in spring 2013 as the successor to David Thompson’s Nahm, the restaurant sits nestled within The Halkin Hotel in London’s chic and embassy-heavy Belgravia district – probably one of the city’s most sinfully luxurious contemporary lodgings, and well in keeping with Ametsa’s modernist, molecular approach to food. We visit on a cold winter’s eve, shuffling from the chilly pavement into the hotel’s marble-clad, uncomplicated lobby, as we peel off our layers and gladly soak in its warmth. To the left is a long sweeping bar filled with plum-coloured banquettes, where we nurse glasses of Louis Roederer while the feeling returns to our fingers, before being ushered by the maître d’ through an intriguing door (of sorts) – a huge piece of wood studded with holes, an enormous section of which rotates on an axis to absorb diners into the restaurant within. Admittedly, the inner sanctum itself is perhaps an inch too cool and minimalist for my taste, it being long and white and slightly sterile (with the exception of the trademark 7,000-plus spice-filled test tubes studding the ceiling, which are pleasurably bizarre) – but somehow its pristine, uncluttered feel works. If nothing else, it matches our fellow diners rather appropriately – each of them long and lithe and immaculately dressed, with not a hair out of place. If ever you want a good excuse to don your most melodramatically-tailored Max Mara purchase, this is it. The cuisine on offer is ‘new Basque’, which – for those non-gastro-academics among us – translates (according to one of its foremost pioneers, Elena’s father Juan Mari Arzak), as an ‘evolutionary, investigatory and avant-garde’ take on traditional Basque food. With this in 22
mind, we opt for executive chef Sergi Sanz’s tasting menu (£110 per person, or £165 with five wine pairings), expecting that it will involve as theatrical a parade of dishes as the restaurant can provide. We were not wrong. The first four of the ten courses are small aperitvo: first kataifi (a sort of Baklava) with scorpion fish cake presented as a sort of lollipop, then rolled ham served in two test tubes, cubed shellfish ‘salpacion’ dice, and finally a mango, beer and black pudding concoction presented on top of an artfully crushed beer can. Like the dishes which follow, each of the aperitvo adheres to Ametsa’s avant-garde ethos with gusto: all are surprising, creative and utterly delicious; a feast for both senses and mind. Next is seafood: scallops leaving the home (a response to Arzak’s original ‘scallops at home’), langoustine crunchy-crepe and tuna with cinnamon on fire – each dish as cryptic and delicious as its cipherous name – and then a dish of Iberian pork, the pink, tender delightfulness of which leaves us both in rapt silence. Finally – and most theatrically of all – arrives The Big Truffle, an enormous chocolate ball which sinks into a decadent, molten mound when doused with Cointreau by the waiter. It must be said, the dishes are diminutive, dramatic and primarily visual – but for those lovers of flavour and complexity over substance, a visit to Ametsa is as close to foodie heaven as you’ll ever get. (comohotels.com/thehalkin)
0161 832 1400
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On the Park
Opening March 2017 www.oddfellowsonthepark.com
Oddfellows on the Park Bruntwood Hall Bruntwood Park Cheadle SK8 1HX
hotels
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars
Local scene Our social pages this month are filled with style, sport and superb events
Twenty-One Tatton Park Equilibrium Asset Management has reached its target of raising £21,000 for charity as its 21st birthday celebrations culminated at a spectacular event at Tatton Park. Seven hundred guests attended the Cheshire-based wealth management firm’s glamorous black tie event, which helped Equilibrium meet its fundraising target. £5,500 was raised on the evening, which was then match-funded by The Equilibrium Foundation – the firm’s charitable arm – to bring the total amount raised to £11,000. The night topped off a year of fundraising efforts which saw the firm donate to five chosen charities; Francis House Children’s Hospice, The Christie Charitable Fund, Enthusiasm, Alzheimer’s Society and St. Kentigern Hospice. (eqllp.co.uk)
27
American Breakfast Victor’s Eatery, Hale A group of children who are supported by local charity, Children’s Adventure Farm Trust (CAFT), were recently treated to a ‘Christmas themed American Breakfast’ at Victor’s Hale arranged by Hale-based Marketing, PR and Events company, Marketing Profile. Sponsored by Victor’s and Blackstone Solicitors, each child received a personalised gift, breakfast and a host of fun Christmas activities. (caft.co.uk)
Food Glorious Food 1539 Restaurant, Chester Racecourse The Chester Food Drink & Lifestyle Festival launched its plans for its 17th event, taking place next Easter. Sponsors and supporters, including valued principle sponsor Allington Hughes gathered to hear the line-up for next year’s event, including free cooking classes from Cheshire Cookery School and a new chef competition, not forgetting that all-important VIP exclusive. (chesterfoodanddrink.co.uk)
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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars
richard & malcolm walker
jonathan antoine
“There’s only one way to express what music gives me. It gives me purpose. It gives me point, When I sing, I can just be me.” joe & claire downes
david binks, sam hill & tom newman
The Voice Opera Grill, Chester An exclusive evening with tenor Jonathan Antoine attracted music and food lovers to Chester last month. The 21-year old star of Britain’s Got Talent amazed guests as they gathered in black tie attire at the exclusive sell-out event in aid of UCL Dementia Research. Along with a 30-minute set from the singing sensation, guests were also treated to a performance from international classical crossover artist Gemma Doyle, accompanied by champagne and a gourmet dining experience. (individualrestaurants.com)
jonathan antoine
debbie & martin cooper
coleen juan little
shazma astle & tom culshaw
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V
winner: queen ethelburgas collage - interior design concept
WINNER: MORGAN MCDONNELL ARCHITECTURE LTD - RESIDENTIAL CONVERSION
winner: SDA ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN - ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN CONCEPT
Northern Design Awards 2016 The Royal Armouries, Leeds Leading designers assembled at the Royal Armouries for the prestigious Northern Design Awards. Hosted by designer Wayne Hemingway and event director, Shelley Bond the evening was a celebration of design in our lives and the great work which is being done in the North. This year’s judging panel featured Linda Barker, Wayne Hemingway, Nick Munro, Jan Constantine, HRH Princess Katarina and internationally renowned designer, George Bond, plus the influential Alison Vance and Noel Farrer. For more images visit northerndesignawards.com
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Calderpeel Architects & The Design Practice by Uber WINNER Room of the Year
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars
winner: DIANE BERRY - KITCHEN OF THE YEAR
winner: simon mcilwraith - commercial interior designer
winner: sturman and co. - commercial interior design project (more than ÂŁ250,000)
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Regulars | The CHESHIRE Magazine
Lunch with Gary Hilton, Deansgate Over 450 ladies and gentlemen of the north west gathered for a special lunch, in aid of Child Bereavement UK, organised by TLC events, at which singer-songwriter Gary Barlow was interviewed by Eamonn Holmes. Founder patron of the charity, Julia Samuel MBE also announced that Gary had agreed to be patron. “Becoming a patron is my way of saying thanks for all the help Child Bereavement UK has given us and many other families going through the pain of bereavement,� he said. (childbereavementuk.org)
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TO
I N V I T E YOU T O
AN
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INE IS D E
EN
LIG
EV
H
T
ED
A
RE
RE
RG
MA
GAZ
WITH M A
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THE CH
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is delighted to invite you to an evening with
MARGARET DABBS LONDON Margaret Dabbs London is a globally recognised brand specialising in credible, results driven feet and hand products and manicure and pedicure treatments for both men and women. Founder Margaret Dabbs and her team would be delighted to welcome you to the Alderley Edge Foot Clinic & Nail Spa to share some of their top tips and signature treatments. WEDNESDAY 25 JANUARY, 2017 6-8PM BY INVITATION ONLY Champagne reception kindly provided by
RSVP to info@thecheshiremagazine.com Margaret Dabbs London, 51 London Road, Alderley Edge, SK9 7DY
@margaret_dabbs_london @TheCheshireMag Proud to be supporting Variety, the children’s charity
Natalie Anglesey catches up with business and family woman, Carole Nash, to talk work, play and giving back to her home town
C
arole Nash is a delightful bundle of exuberant enthusiasm, who warmly welcomes me to her spacious home outside Hale. “We moved here to be near my daughter who lives opposite, my son who lives nearby, and my eight grand-children – and, of course, our six dogs came with us!” Reminiscing about 2012, when she was invested by the Queen with an OBE for services to charitable causes in the north west, Carole laughingly recounts: “When I first received the letter marked On Her Majesty’s Service I just thought it was a jury summons or a parking ticket, so I didn’t open it immediately,” she chuckles. “I couldn’t believe it when I read it. I was obviously delighted and extremely proud to have been honoured for something I’ve always loved doing – giving back to the community.” Carole’s used to rubbing shoulders with royalty. “I’ve met Her Majesty, on several
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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature
occasions prior to the investiture, so she knew who I was and we had a little chat. Similarly, I’ve had lunch with Prince Phillip and Prince Andrew, because I’ve been involved with helping the Prince’s Trust over the years. I’m also a Deputy to the Lord Lieutenant and do my share of handing out awards on his behalf.” Refreshingly, there are no airs and graces about Carole. Born and raised in Moss Side, she’s quick to point out this isn’t a rags to riches story. “My father was a chemist so we were comfortably off compared to so many others, but I grew up aware of others less fortunate. I loved the honesty there and we still support Manchester City, as that’s a long family tradition.” When Carole left Whalley Range High School at eighteen, she sensed her father’s disappointment. “He would have loved me to be a doctor but I didn’t want any further education, and got a job with an insurance company.” There she fell in love with her charming husband Freddy, to whom she’s been happily married for fifty-two years.
left: with deputy lieutenant insiginia
“I was one of the first women in the country to become a broker and that was an incentive to prove myself” “I left work when we had children. However, when my son Malcolm went to Manchester Grammar and my daughter Jane got into Manchester High, I went back to work part-time to pay for extras like musical instruments.” The insurance company put Carole in charge of the motorbike section and, bearing in mind she was a working mum, she employed other part time workers, and introduced flexi-time. It worked until 1985, when the company closed and she was made redundant. "While I was washing up that night I thought about what I wanted to do next. I was well into my forties and spent years at home baking and cooking. I looked at the redundancy cheque for
£2,300 on the kitchen table and decided to run my own business. I bought a professional indemnity insurance for £2,000 and, with the rest, purchased a telephone for the dining room and some paper and pencils.” As the business became successful, Carole moved the phone to a make-shift office in the garage. In 1989 the work was still coming in fast, so she got an office in Timperley where she employed four staff. “I was one of the first women in the country to become a broker and that was an incentive to prove myself. I was on the phone from
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Feature | The CHESHIRE Magazine
7.30am until 9.30pm. I’d switch calls to my house when I left work and rush home so I didn’t miss any clients. I’d go to bike shows and still believe that personal service gets you noticed. Bikers are a mainly male-orientated body, so my work had to be perfect. I was determined – but never aggressive.” Ten years later, Carole had 30,000 policyholders on the books. She opened her first office in Ireland in 1999, with singing star and Harley-Davidson owner Ronan Keating cutting the ribbon in Dublin. “Now that was exciting! I never intended to be a professional businesswoman and believe I was successful because I was always pleasant and polite. Because of that, other bikers and clubs started ringing me, and eventually it snowballed and we were doing new bikes and, eventually, cars as well.” However, by 2006, the successful business had become too much for Carole, who was now 65. “After I’d sold the company for £74million, I remember flying back to Manchester, with my son and daughter both shareholders, wondering what I was going to do next.” Proving she’s capable of more than simply the cuddly grandma she appears, Carole didn’t wait long. “You see, I get worried if I’ve not given something back. I started with the Children’s Adventure Farm (CAFT), where I’m
“It's not about glory - but about sharing. Manchester is my home town and I’ve just tried to help where I could” patron. It gives children from difficult backgrounds a five-day break, and brought home to us the problems of families who sometimes have no food on the table.” Although Carole doesn’t like to mention all the charitable causes she helps, she was thrilled recently to receive a surprise. “I was awarded the Freedom of Altrincham, which I gather goes back centuries to the Ancient Court of Leet,
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and I wear it proudly with my other insignia.” Carole also comes from a musical family. “My grandmother was a professional pianist, while grandfather was an oboeist. Our wonderful Hallé Orchestra was turning 150 years old, and top of their wishlist was a Steinway Grand. So Kathy Stott, the pianist, and I went to Hamburg and chose their piano, which you can still see on stage at the Bridgewater Hall.” Since then Carole has also proved a generous benefactor to The Lowry, and has given around £300,000 to Chetham's School of Music for a new performance space. The Royal Northern College of Music, too, has benefited, as a spokesperson reveals: “Carole is one of the RNCM's most loyal advocates and supporters. In 2010 she funded the spectacular transformation of one of the College's key performance spaces, which was renamed the Carole Nash Recital Room. She remains a regular visitor to the College and we are very grateful for her ongoing involvement.” Carole’s response is typical of this entrepreneur turned generous philanthropist. “There’s not an everlasting money-pit by any means, and sometimes it feels like I’m drowning in requests for help. But I’ve had more satisfaction from giving than anything else I've done. It's not about glory – but about sharing. Manchester is my home town and I’ve just tried to help where I could.”
above: with husband freddy and her children at buckingham palace receiving her obe
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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars
A s I w a s s ay i n g . . .
The travel game Melissa Porter invites you to follow her lead and craft your very own imaginary trip, in which the focus is purely on your wellbeing and happiness. Can you practise unselfish indulgence?
I
magine that tomorrow, you wake up from your delicious slumber to discover you’ve won a holiday. Hoorah? For some, a vacation is considered a stressful time. So, I’m creating some rules to ensure your trip is focused on you getting what you need. Architecture? Adventure? Or perhaps relaxation? Whatever makes your heart sing. The rules: your budget is unlimited; you can take whomever you wish; and there will be no consequences. No one will judge you, blame or shame you. You can travel wherever you wish in the world and for however long you choose. This exercise involves you creating a personal reality, based on what you need, and want, right now. I’ll go first. I’m drawn to being quiet and tranquil. It’s been a busy start to the year, with my training and various business interests, and my wish is to be enveloped within a place of wellbeing and warm energy. I’d choose to travel with a fellow coach who embodies the same values of calm and compassion which I hold. We’re both believers in the value of freedom, and honour this within ourselves and each other. I’ve heard of an incredible wellbeing spa in Arizona called Miraval, that is favoured by Oprah and other spiritual beings. It sits along one of the most powerfully energetic fault lines in our planet, giving it a whole range of health benefits. I’d choose for us to travel first class, and to recharge for seven days, door-to-door. Boom. I’m also feeling like a little romance and would love to travel to the Hamptons in America with my love; to sit and be silly together alongside the shoreline at Sag Harbor, watching the boats bobbing across the wiggly waves; to tuck into a fizzy glass of rosé Champagne and a
lobster roll while seated at one of their elegant beachside restaurants, chatting, being silly and laughing about life, for three days. I’d then take the jet to Florida and meet my beautiful son, where we’d tour Disneyworld with his nanny, my mother and our favourite friends and family. All expenses paid, and unlimited ice-cream. We’d sleep in the Disney-themed hotel, dress up in silly Mickey ears, and zip around the park doing whatever my son wishes. This is a time for connection and fun, watching and learning more about what floats Pierce’s boats and makes him laugh from his belly. Four days for this one, please. This is my version of wellbeing. When I’m as real as possible is when I feel alive and filled with love. And when you’re not, it creates enormous unhappiness. Happy travels. Melissa is a professional, certified transformational life coach (melissaportercoach.com)
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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature
It’s going to be a great year for weddings! We’ve got the most exciting new ideas for food, décor and more...
First Look They may not be traditional but first-look wedding photos are becoming very popular. The instant the bride and groom meet on their wedding day is the most romantic part of the day, it's entirely up to you if you want to uphold the tradition of
not seeing each other until the ceremony but more and more couples are going for first looks. Whether it’s holding hands over a dressing screen so that you still don't see each other or taking that sneaky peek. It's your day so do it your way.
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Food It's not just about the food, it's about how you present it. Head of catering at Horseradish, Angus Wilson, predicts that 2017 will see more wedding breakfasts with an international, laid-back twist. “When we sit down with couples to discuss their menu, we encourage them to use a defining food or dining moment in time that means a lot to them, which we can incorporate into their day. This is more often than not a holiday and so we have seen a rise in requests for street food with exciting flavours from all around the world.
“We work closely with couples to ensure we can collaboratively deliver a really indulgent catering experience for their guests” "This has meant a very different feel from your traditional ‘wedding breakfast’ and included more bowl and finger food. This style of dining is definitely on the rise and I can see it continuing well into 2017, alongside those more traditional wedding breakfasts, of course. To us it is so important that we work closely with couples to ensure we can collaboratively deliver a really indulgent catering experience for their guests. “Clients are no longer choosing caterers solely based on the food that we produce, but the presentation, styling and theatre, too. Whether it’s a wedding, an intimate dinner in somebody’s home or entertaining 200 guests in a garden setting, every occasion should be unforgettable.” (horseradish-hospitality.com)
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Ditch the Receiving Lines Receiving lines can be a bit too formal. So instead, opt to greet your guests during cocktails and throughout the night. Don’t worry, you will have time and it’s that touch more personal.
Flowers It’s all about romantic blooms: peonies, ranunculus and other soft petals are the top-requested flowers; they epitomise romance. Tall glass trumpets allowing for large, lush arrangements, are also making a comeback; they sit above guests’ heads so it’s easy for conversation. Few brides want their tables to look too organised, though; they want a more eclectic feel with a mix of containers and two or three different centrepiece designs. Hanging floral centrepieces aren’t going anywhere soon, either!
Stay Connected To your new spouse, not technology. Regardless of trends or themes, it’s important to stay connected throughout the day. Spend time with family and friends but don’t forget to take a step back, together, and enjoy the celebrations as a couple.
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature
Lingerie
Scent “Fragrances evoke memories,” explains Carl Groenewald of Parfums Christian Dior. “So many women who come to me recall that they wore this or that on a certain special occasion many years ago. Scent is so powerful. “It needs to reflect you and your personality, though. Always go for the fragrance type that suits you.
“...take into account the day, the season and colour scheme as it all adds to the overall day and experience” “Also take into account the day, the season and colour scheme as it all adds to the overall day and experience. Florals do tend to be the call of the day for weddings [they are the best selling scents in the world] but there’s still a scent within that type to suit you. “At Dior we have the number one selling scent in the world with J’adore with a bouquet of rose, jasmine and ylang ylang. And we also have La Colle Noire in La Collection Privée which celebrates rose, but has woods and amber, too. “Don’t rush it, though. After smelling three or so scents, your nose stops being true so it’s worth taking your time with it. And let your nose decide. It’s not all about what’s new; it’s about you, and your scent should reflect you. “My advice, would be to treat yourself. Book yourself in for a consultation with a perfume house, spend time with an expert [champagne in hand] and go on a little journey of discovery. “Remember, though, that scent is a powerful thing. We don’t realise it but it is truly amazing. It reminds you of a time, place and person. I have ladies who wear what their mum wore on their wedding day because it makes them feel that she is with them when she has passed away. “So choose well, follow your nose and your heart and love the experience.”(dior.com)
The wrong undergarments can ruin the look of your gorgeous wedding gown, and shopping for your underwear should be just as exciting as finding your dream dress. Luisa Loveday, designer at Loveday London shares her expert tips. “Once you have chosen your dress you’ll have a much better idea of what kind of lingerie works best. But resist the temptation to buy anything before your first fitting. You’ll know a lot more about your foundation garments once you see the dress fitting on your body. “Wedding lingerie is often all about the knickers. Wedding dresses can be strapless and boned, making au naturel an option for many. The excitement therefore comes upon completing the set with bra and suspenders on your wedding night as a married woman. “For us and our stylists here (who are on hand via phone or email if you need some help!) it’s all about romance. Indeed, I based my SS17 collection on A Midsummer Night’s Dream by William Shakespeare, exploring the dynamic between all the romantic characters. But more than anything it’s about feeling great and confident on your big day, so treat yourself to something beautiful. “Wedding lingerie shopping has never been so gorgeous and easy!” (lovedaylondon.com)
“...more than anything, it’s about feeling great and confident on your big day”
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Feature | The CHESHIRE Magazine
Location, Location, Location When it comes to finding the perfect location for your wedding, there are more venue choices than ever before. Trends have changed over recent years and these are reflected in the types of venue on offer. The Irlam family, who own Colshaw Hall, know these trends only too well and believe that understanding the desires of brides and grooms are key to owning and operating a successful venue
“C
ouples are looking for country manor houses that are exclusive so that they can have a wedding with just the couple, their family and friends to share the day,” comments Georgina Irlam-White, event planner. “They also want a venue where they can have a service, wedding breakfast and evening celebration all in one place, so they are not wasting time travelling from one location to another.” Owned by David Irlam, Colshaw Hall is now one of the most sought-after weddings and events venue in Cheshire. The venue has been so successful that the family will be opening a sister venue, Merrydale Manor, in July 2017, owned by David’s brother Michael Irlam. “My brother and I are delighted to be able to offer this brand-new, bespoke weddings and events venue.” David reassures that, “It will offer the same levels of luxury and high standards as Colshaw Hall.” Approached by a sweeping drive that passes through acres of stunning parkland and countryside, including a tranquil lake, Merrydale Manor sits amid stunning manicured gardens. There’s also an HPA-registered polo pitch and the former stables are being transformed into luxury accommodation, with luxurious interiors inspired by nature. The Merrydale Suite is currently under construction and will be a fabulous function area that will be bright, fresh and contemporary,
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“A couple like to have a feature house with history”
and host up to 250 people in a space that will be both state-of-the-art and elegant. “There’s been a trend towards ‘contemporary luxury’,” continues Georgina. “A couple like to have a feature house with history but they equally desire contemporary interiors that are fresh and glamorous. We provide a venue that has a very high standard so that a couple can spend more of their budget on the best in entertainment, flowers and food rather than just dressing a venue to get it up to scratch.” As well as passion and perfection, the family also believeS that postcode is key, too. Merrydale Manor will enable couples and their guests to have their own private slice of Cheshire in the most idyllic spot – a perfect setting to capture memories. (To arrange a private viewing, 01565 724060; @merrydalemanor)
Farley of James Cour tesy
YOUR WEDDING, DELIVERED BY
We work with a host of fabulous wedding venues across the North West and North Wales. Already found your location? Speak to us about how we can collaboratively deliver culinary moments for you and your guests on one of the most important days of your life.
01244 304 660 horseradish-hospitality.com
Regulars | The CHESHIRE Magazine
TAY L O R TA L K S
Put Your Wedding In Lights With the month of romance upon us, Liz Taylor gives a sneak peek at the biggest wedding trends set to dominate 2017
H
as February really come around so soon? The month of romance is, for me, one of the busiest of the year. Planning proposal events, as opposed to the wedding itself, is a relatively new concept, but one that is booming. Couples are looking to combine the romantic with the bespoke, and start the lead up to that big day in style! 2016 was all about historic venues, big events and traditional weddings, while 2017 will see the emergence of a different kind of wedding, combining some of the above with eclectic, boutique fun. If you’re curious to know what some of the very best-dressed weddings will look like in 2017? Here are a few hints:
décor or softer garden settings by twinkling among the bushes.
4. Time to savour
“Couples are looking to combine something romantic with something bespoke”
Sharing plates or tapas-style dinners is very much on trend. Long tables lend themselves to an assortment of dining options, while uncomplicated foods, cooked to perfection and creatively presented, work nicely with polished tables and an eclectic mix of painted chairs with coloured cushions and throws.
5. Sweet tastes 2017 sees the increasing emphasis on a dessert table, rather than just a cake – think ice cream bikes, chocolate mountains and towers of macarons. Theatrical centrepieces combined with dessert – utter bliss!
1. Small and beautiful
6. Brunch weddings
Intimate weddings making the most of boutique hotels, rooftop gardens and private residences allow you to add your own personality, keeping guestlists to close family and friends so you can invest more in catering and entertainment.
A pancake station, omelettes cooked to order, Bucks Fizz, delicate smoked salmon and cream cheese bagels mean you can follow an early strut down the aisle with a brunch party – perfect for smaller weddings.
2. Industrial chic
7. Trucks, trucks and more trucks!
The architectural grandeur of warehouses, urban lofts and even Victorian pumping stations is a striking backdrop. This trend is set to continue, with strings of Edison bulbs hung above rustic wood and tarnished metal, and rough brick walls swathed in theatrical lighting for atmosphere.
3. Put your name in lights Oversized letter-lights spell out a happy day and are a perfect focal point, either to light up industrial 48
With fresh coffee, wood-fired pizza, burger sliders and ethnic favourites, the choice from food trucks is mouth-watering – from VW camper gin bars and fish-and-chip vans, to vintage bus wine emporiums and afternoon teas! And if they haven’t proposed to you yet? Leave this page open on the coffee table… if they take the hint, call me! (tlc-ltd.co.uk)
Planning
Perfection Planning your wedding day is an exciting time, but there’s a lot to think about and it can be tricky to know where to start. Here, the wedding team at Nunsmere Hall Hotel share their expert top tips to take the stress out of your big day Essential advice for brides and grooms Organisation is key when planning a wedding. Having a solid structure in place is essential. We recommend putting a check list together to prioritise what needs to be done and at what time. Planning can be overwhelming so ticking through what you have achieved can be very reassuring. For example, as soon as your wedding is booked, contact the registrars to make sure they are available on the day and the time you would like to get married. Ensuring that they have enough notice is essential to prevent disappointment. Regularly speaking and building a relationship with your wedding coordinators or planners can also minimise any queries that you may have. They have a wealth of experience in putting these occasions together and are there to help you every step of the way.
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Choosing the venue Pick a style that is right for you, whether it is an outdoor ceremony, marquee wedding or indoor country charm celebration. First impressions are key and immediately give you a feeling of the venue. If you think you’ve found the perfect venue, visit more than once and at different times of the year to really get an impression of how the venue looks at your specific season. Do further research through reading wedding brochures and marketing literature. Past reviews give reliable insights into the day-to-day runnings of individual wedding days and can dispel any doubts, or help in making the right decision for you. Also don’t be afraid to ask questions; it’s what the team is there for. As well as the venue, you also want to fall in love with them, as they will be helping to make the most important day of your life as memorable as possible. Building a positive relationship with them is key.
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature
night. What better way to celebrate than with fireworks and sparklers to brighten the darker evenings? Winter weddings conventionally embody sparkles and festive fun. Red and gold colour schemes are a popular and cosy theme choice. Whereas spring weddings adopt more pastel colours and blooming floral arrangements. There is a theme to fit every time of year. Finalising your guest list is one of the most important jobs of planning your wedding and perhaps the most stressful. Whether you are looking for a wedding of only ten guests or up to 600, either can be made perfect for you. We have planned everything from intimate parties in our Oak Suite to full-on society parties in our purpose-built marquee.
Décor details Once you have chosen your function room, choosing suppliers to provide floral arrangements, decorations, lighting and entertainment will ensure those finishing touches and really bring your day together. Link your décor to your chosen season. For example summer weddings are perfect for bright flowers, colourful bridesmaids’ dresses and outdoor ceremonies. Autumn weddings are host to warm autumnal colours and can be linked with fun themes such as Hallowe'en or bonfire
Food choices Be sure to to research the food packages available and book a menu tasting to narrow down your favourite choices. Most importantly, choose what you and your partner will enjoy; it is your big day, after all. At Nunsmere we offer a four-tier menu option: Mary, Elizabeth, Victoria and Cunard. It’s always a special touch to add canapés to your celebrations, these range from salmon blinis to hearty miniature Yorkshire puddings. Or why not treat your guests (and yourselves) to champagne welcome drinks to ring in the celebrations in style? Sticking to these top tips can really help in making your wedding planning run as smoothly and enjoyably as possible. The most important thing is to enjoy the day and we think that planning is the key to this... plus we're always here to help! (nunsmere.co.uk; 01606 889100; weddings@nunsmere.co.uk)
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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Art & Culture
© chrisdorney / shutterstock
The Year Ahead The Arts Council Collection has recently announced details of the exhibitions taking place throughout 2017 at its four National Partner galleries: the Walker Art Gallery, National Museums Liverpool; Towner Art Gallery, Eastbourne; Birmingham Museums Trust and Yorkshire Sculpture Park. The forming of this partnership is one of the key strands of activity marking the Arts Council Collection’s 70th anniversary and, working with the Arts Council Collection team, the four partners have taken their own innovative approach to the works in the Collection. Each has curated a range of exhibitions that reflect themes that are becoming ever more relevant to today’s society, including the role of technology in art and gender identity. (artscouncilcollection.org.uk/npp)
Arts & Culture Gemma Knight brings you not-to-miss shows and news from Cheshire’s thriving arts scene
Waiting for the Man Global music legend John Cale has announced Liverpool as one of only three shows in the world planned to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the revolutionary album, The Velvet Underground & Nico (that’s the one with the Andy Warhol Banana cover). With sister shows in New York and Paris, he reportedly hand–picked Liverpool because it’s the city he sailed from when he left the UK, and due to its rich, diverse and cutting edge musical history – what better place to hear the number one album ‘that changed music forever’? May 26, Liverpool (ticketmaster.co.uk; ticketweb.co.uk)
© Featureflash Photo Agency / shutterstock
Spice Up Your Life With her highly anticipated seventh album ‘Version of Me’ recently released, Melanie C has announced a run of UK dates in April this year, one in Liverpool and one in Manchester. A richly textured, lushly atmospheric, deeply personal album, with lovely lyrics laid over beats, shimmering synths, striking percussion and strings, it’s a fantastically adventurous, honest, and infectiously pop record that should translate well into live performance. April 5, O2 Academy 1, Liverpool & April 6, 02 Ritz, Manchester (gigsandtours.com; melaniec.net)
Back in Blue A new collection celebrating the 25th anniversary of Sonic the Hedgehog launched across Castle Fine Art and Castle Galleries nationwide on 2 December, following a collaboration between Washington Green, the UK’s leading art publisher, and SEGA Europe Limited. Featuring limited edition publishing from a selection of today’s leading contemporary artists, the collection pays homage to the iconic videogame character who has been racing through games, TV, mobile, merchandise and more for a quarter century. Its new ‘Sonic 25’ collection sees Washington Green artists re-imagine Sonic the Hedgehog in each of their own inimitable styles. 12-14 King Street, Manchester, M2 6AG; 18 St Michael’s Row, Chester, CH1 1EF (castlefineart.com)
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MERE 2017 full page bleed The Ches Magazine .qxp_MERE 2017 Cheshire Magazine Full Page 13/12/2016 11:15 Page 1
THE ANTIQUES & FINE ART FAIR AT THE MERE THE MERE GOLF RESORT & SPA NEAR KNUTSFORD CHESHIRE WA16 6LJ
24 - 26 FEBRUARY 2017 Friday 11.00 - 18.00 Saturday 10.30 - 18.00 Sunday 10.30 - 17.00
A stylish event of quality offering inspiration and choice in antiques and fine art for him, for her and for the home THE
ANTIQUES DEALERS FAIR
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01797 252030 www.merefair.com
Knutsford branch 01565 633 770
Look out for your complimentary invitation for three in the March issue of the magazine
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Art & Culture
PRIZE LOTs
#1 200 posters and ephemera by master of art nouveau, Alphonse Mucha Scarce offerings include original drawings, many of which Swann Galleries have identified as sketches for the famous Documents Décoratifs and Figures Décoratifs, as well as myriad posters in excellent condition that rarely come to auction. There are even chocolate boxes. Also in the sale are works by Eugene Grasset, Adolfo Hohenstein, Henri PrivatLivemont and Henri Toulouse-Lautrec. Various estimates, January 26 (swanngalleries.com)
#2 Diana and Actaeon in a Wooded Landscape, with a Hunter and a Fisherman by Jan Aoens The Of Royal and Noble Descent sale at Sotheby’s will offer a huge variety of lots from notable aristocratic European and British collections, some of which have never been put
up for auction before. One of the lots on offer will be this painting of Diana and Actaeon by Dutch artist Jan Soens who was particularly active at the end of the 16th century. This narrative, history painting is from the Marchese Francesco Taccone di Sitizano collections. Estimate £8,000-12,000, 19 January (sothebys.com)
#3 Steps with Shadow (Paper Pool 2) by David Hockney, 1978 Phillips dives head first into the New Year with an impressive sale featuring works from David Hockney’s experimental Paper Pool series. Created in 1978 in New York, the 29 pieces are made from moulded paper pulp. The pool depicted in the images was Kenneth Tyler’s: a fellow artist with whom Hockney created the series. Estimate £400,000-£600,000, 19 January (phillips.com)
images from l-r: images courtesy of swann galleries; image courtesy of sotheby’s; IMAGE COURTESY OF PHILLIPS
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Strictly
Speaking With the stunning conclusion of this year’s Strictly fresh in our memories, Natalie Anglesey chats to the dancing celebrities and judges who will be taking to the stage once again for The Strictly Tour
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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Art & Culture
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trictly fans will be delighted to know that actress Lesley Joseph and BBC Sport’s presenter and winner of Strictly Come Dancing 2016, Ore Oduba will join fellow celebrities Louise Redknapp, Danny Mac and Daisy Lowe on the tenth anniversary Strictly Come Dancing Live UK Tour. The tour judging panel of Len Goodman and Craig Revel Horwood will also include Karen Hardy, who presents Choreographer’s Corner, on Strictly’s IT TAKES TWO. Once a Strictly professional dancer, she jointly won in 2006 when she partnered cricketer Mark Ramprakash. Lesley Joseph is, of course, best known for playing Dorian in the popular television series, Birds of a Feather. “This has been a very special Strictly series and I am very proud to have been part of it, but now I can’t wait for the tour. I'm getting ready to put my dancing shoes on and hit the dance floor!” Ore Oduba agrees. “The live tour means I don't have to wake up from this Strictly dream. I can't wait to travel the country with my friends and meet the fantastic audience that made our whole experience possible.” Former Shadow Chancellor Ed Balls will also join the tour, however, due to prior commitments, he will not be appearing at the Manchester Arena. The judging panel on Strictly has been intrinsic to its success and, this year, head judge, Len Goodman, will be joined by his old adversary Craig Revel Horwood, who directs the tour for the seventh time. Craig was very engaging, so I asked if he’d cultivated his role as Mr Nasty? “People presume that, but it’s not true,” Craig replies. “It took me a lifetime to learn how to dance. I’m proud of my craft and I’ve no time for anyone who
doesn’t take it seriously. Did you know that prior to the first series, we judges had to audition? We did several dummy runs and they seemed to like that I always spoke my mind.” Craig’s used to being unpopular but has a confession to make. “It’s not particularly nice being booed by 16,000 people. In the studio there are only a couple of hundred people but, at Manchester Arena, being booed by thousands is scary – but that’s showbiz!” Fortunately Craig has happier memories of Manchester from when he choreographed the Commonwealth Games ceremonies. “Manchester did a brilliant job getting the stadium finished in time. But it was a logistical nightmare to direct, because the majority of performers were volunteers and it just wasn’t possible to get them together for a rehearsal. So they were all given ear pieces into which I would quietly issue orders like ‘stand’, ‘kneel’ and ‘look up’. It was the biggest power trip when they followed my instructions, and it really didn’t matter that it rained!” Craig came from Australia to work in UK musicals like Cats, Miss Saigon and Crazy For You. Since then, he’s carved a successful career as both choreographer and
“The live tour means I don’t have to wake up from this Strictly dream” judge. He’s also choreographed and directed musicals such as West Side Story, Sunset Boulevard and Calamity Jane. He jokes, “I was an Aussie Billy Elliot and certainly can’t claim my life since has been dull!" Len Goodman, the television icon who helped bring ballroom dancing into the 21st century, has gone
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Art &Culture | The CHESHIRE Magazine
from barrow boy to ballroom champion and Strictly judge. “If you’ve never seen Strictly in the Manchester Arena, you’ve missed a treat,” he says. “But don’t worry, we’re coming back!’ Len’s never been afraid of speaking his mind about the other judges. ”I’ve judged ballroom competitions for years and, while Darcy Bussell doesn’t know much about ballroom dancing, she was a skillful ballerina. Craig and Bruno Tonioli are also dancers turned choreographers but, again, from different disciplines. However, they keep asking us back, so the public must like us.
“I’ve been twelve years on Strictly and I’ve met some of my heroes like Cassius Clay and Tiger Woods” “My only regret that is my parents didn’t live to see their little Lenny on the telly – they’d have loved that. I was an engineering apprentice and only went to dance classes at 19 because I was told it would help a football injury. But when I saw the pretty girls there and found I was good at it, I thought: I’ll stick with this!” Len turned professional, won several competitions and retired from competitive dancing in his late twenties, when he won the British Championships in Blackpool. He set up his own dancing school and knows the strain involved for competitors. “They’re all out to win, even if they don’t admit it. There’s pressure on everyone and people handle it in different ways.” Happily married to Sue, who used to be a dance teacher, this will be Len’s swansong. “I’ve been 12 years on Strictly and I’ve met some of my heroes, like Cassius Clay and Tiger Woods. “Hundreds of people come to see the show live in London but the studio’s small. The Arena shows are even more spectacular – you’d think with the sheer size the intimacy would be lost, but the excitement of thousands of people cheering makes the atmosphere even more electric. I absolutely love it and you will too!” Strictly Come Dancing Live, 4-5 February, Manchester Arena (0844 847 8000; strictlycomedancinglive.com)
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LUXURY BODY BUTTER IN WHITE CASHMERE FROM THE BATH & BODY COLLECTION
www.lilouetloic.com
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Collection
Third times the
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CHARM
he Meander Collection, first launched in 2015, had been several years in the making by the time it hit the shelves at DMR boutiques across the country. Designed by David M Robinson himself, the collection proved extremely popular in its first year and was updated for 2016 with three new bangles. The new additions include diamond-set bangles in yellow, white and rose gold, to complement the original collection that featured bangles in the same gold options, but instead set with colourful rubies, sapphires and amethysts.
“The soft, gentle lines of this collection flow down the bangle and, with diamonds or other precious stones interspersed along the meander, it makes for a stunning design,” explains managing director at David M Robinson, John Robinson. And, if bangles aren’t your thing, you’ll be pleased to hear there are also several ring options to add a little sparkle to your digits this winter. Meander Bangle, available in 18kt white, yellow and rose gold, £7,750 (davidmrobinson.co.uk)
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Watch news words: richard brown
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or some, watches simply serve as status signifiers – hence Rolex’s years-long waiting lists. Mostly, though, we purchase watches because of the way they look. We’re primates, after all, and our primitive brains are programmed to feel certain urges towards pretty things – in the case of Zenith’s latest looker: lust. Like so many of last year’s most handsome timepieces – see GirardPerregaux’s Laureato and Piaget’s Polo S – the Heritage Cronometro TIPO CP-2 is a reinvention of a historic forebear. The original TIPO CP-2 is a design classic from the 1960s. Produced in a 2,500-unit run for the Italian armed forces, the watch was supplied through Rome-based distributor A. Cairelli, whose name appears on the dial. Today, these ‘A. Cairelli’ timepieces have crossed into iconic status territory and achieve suitably lofty prices at auction. Journalists were given a glimpse of the modern TIPO CP-2 at Baselworld 2016, but it’s only now that the watch is finally available in the UK – though you’d better hope your local dealer got their order in quick, as only 1,000 of these handsome timepieces will be rolling off the production line. The TIPO CP-2 is powered by Zenith’s legendary El Primero movement – famed for being the first chronograph movement capable of measuring time intervals to the nearest tenth of a second. Like its predecessor, the Heritage Cronometro TIPO CP-2 is 43mm in diameter, features two highly legible counters, and comes with a solid, stainless-steel caseback – something that’s sure to please purists, but irk anyone hoping to view the watch’s beating heart inside. £6,200, (zenith-watches.com) 62
Shine On The new shine collection from Swiss watchmaker Raymond Weil is the perfect reason to stick by your New Year’s resolution to be on time – especially now that there’s a whole range of interchangeable straps available, meaning that you’ll always be completely coordinated. Each watch in the collection has two interchangeable options: a steel or bi-colour bracelet and a black satin strap, plus the option to purchase a whole host of additional straps in a range of seasonal hues. The straps are quick and easy to change, but beware – with so many to choose from, you’ll probably be late anyway. £2,295 (raymond-weil.com)
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Collection
ONE TO WATCH “The new revamped champagne dial Datejust model is now housed in a 41mm case. Sticking to its true classic design – with its 18ct yellow gold fluted bezel and 904L stainless steel and yellow gold Jubilee bracelet – it has now evolved to include an Oyster clasp, giving a secure, timeless feel to the modern classic.” - Chinda Jim, Senior Sales Ambassador at David M Robinson
Rolex M126333-0010, £9,350 Available at David M Robinson in Manchester (davidmrobinson.co.uk)
UK a Beacon of Light for Ailing Swiss Watch Industry 2015 may have been something of an annus horribilis for the Swiss watch industry at large – exports were down 11 per cent in the first 10 months, with some companies down by more than 20 per cent – but last year saw Britain’s luxury watch sector soar. The latest available data from retail analysts GfK points towards a strong end of year, with premium watch sales in October up by 53.5 per cent compared with October 2015. And despite Rolex, LVMH and Richemont Group hiking their prices – a response to the falling pound – sales of watches worth more than £1,000 increased by 25.1 per cent in the 12 months to October 2016. (gfk.com)
Harry Winston Reopens London Flagship
Purdey Partners With Panerai Gun and rifle makers James Purdey & Sons have partnered with Officine Panerai to produce a limited-edition series of safari-themed wristwatches. The collection comprises 80 numbered Luminor 1950 Sealand timepieces, with casebacks engraved with the Big Five game animals. The outer edges of each case feature gold inlay and a pattern inspired by African art. The watches house Panerai’s calibre P.9000, an automatic in-house movement that provides a three-day power reserve. Tan calf-leather straps complete the bushman look. The collection is on sale in Purdey’s Mayfair boutique and online now. Luminor 1950 Sealand 3 Days Automatic Acciaio, £20,500 (purdey.com)
Following a nine-month renovation, the doors to Harry Winston’s New Bond Street showroom have reopened. The salon facade was restored in accordance with the guidelines for historical buildings. It features Portland Stone – a hallmark of Mayfair’s Georgian buildings – and replicates the archway of the brand’s Fifth Avenue boutique. Inside, the ground floor is dedicated to Harry Winston’s bridal and fine jewellery collections, while the second floor stocks the company’s growing collection of timepieces – including the supremely elegant Midnight Date Moon Phase, seen here £21,600 (harrywinston.com)
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Collection | The CHESHIRE Magazine
Jewellery
news WORDS: OLIVIA SHARPE
True Colours Jewellery designer Ece Sirin explores the science behind colour in the latest collection of talismanic pieces for her brand Bee Goddess. The kaleidoscopic range of drop earrings, necklaces and stacking rings sees striking graphic shapes set with intense pavé-coloured rubies, sapphires, emeralds and diamonds. In many ancient cultures, each colour was believed to have a different energy and healing power that affects our bodies, from red – the colour of power, passion and prosperity – to blue – the colour of eternity, truth and spirituality. Soul Colours collection, £375£6,470, available at Harrods (harrods.com)
Below the Surface We love it when two great luxury brands join forces, as more often than not, this creative fusion results in innovation. Case in point, Georg Jensen and Gemfields’ latest collaboration. Gemfields – one of the world’s leading suppliers of gemstones – sourced rubies from its mine in Mozambique for the new five-piece, contemporary jewellery collection created by Georg Jensen. The minimalist, concave designs in silver have been based on the jeweller’s iconic Mobiüs shape from the 1960s and are now available to buy. Twenty per cent of the profits will go towards the Niassa Carnivore project, an organisation that works to conserve lions and other large carnivores in Mozambique. From £350, exclusive to amazon.co.uk/georgjensen
Only Yours Signet ring maker Rebus has recently launched a new range of hand-engraved pendants, available in 9-karat or 18-karat yellow gold, and sitting elegantly at the end of an 18-inch chain. The pendants come in two different face shapes; oval or disc and are individually made to order in the brand’s Hatton Garden workshop, with the option of having yours personally engraved – either for yourself, as a gift, or to match a previously owned signet ring. A truly classic piece that’s as unique as its wearer. From £275 (rebussignetrings.co.uk) 64
Inside and Out The idea behind Parisian brand Les Georgettes’ bracelet collection is, quite frankly, so simple and brilliant, that we’re stunned no one else has thought of it before now. Available in three sizes (40, 25 and 14mm) and multiple finishes (including gold, silver and rose gold in shiny and matte), each bracelet comes with an interchangeable leather band. This means that, by collecting a variety of different bands – which vary in colour both on their inside and outside edge – you can easily customise your bracelet to match or complement an outfit or occasion. Truly simple – but aren’t all great ideas? From £69 (lesgeorgettes.com; geminera.com)
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22/12/2016 12:32
What is a “fair” settlement following divorce or separation
Liz Cowell, Principal Lawyer and Family Law Arbitrator, Slater and Gordon
No two divorces are the same. But there is one important factor in all divorces: the actions of each party can have a huge impact on how fair the final settlement is. From my experience as a Family lawyer and a deputy district judge I do believe it is possible to reach a settlement with your ex amicably without the need to go to court. However, I often see that fail, and when it does my advice is that you should put yourself in a position of knowing what a fair settlement looks like for you and, understand the process. To assist you with these thoughts, I have shared the most frequently asked questions from my clients who have faced this situation.
Q: Does the court use a formula to divide assets? The simple answer is yes. The court will start from the basis of a 50/50 division of assets between you and your ex-partner. However, our law is discretionary and the court looks to achieve fairness not equality.
Q: What does this mean? Equal division of assets is only deemed fair if both parties’ needs can be met.
Q: Can my ex get a share of the money I inherited from my parents? Yes, in some circumstances. First of all, any inheritance must be disclosed to the court. Your ex will have an interest in any inheritance if it has been
mingled with jointly owned assets, for example invested in the matrimonial home. If the inheritance has been kept in your sole name it will only be treated by the court as a resource to be used to meet needs if the division of the “matrimonial assets” does not do so.
at needs. If your ex is asset poor but income rich you will get maintenance instead.
Q: I do not know what assets my ex holds, how will I find out?
Courts can make orders for life or for a term of years. They can make a clean break order. Each case is decided on individual facts so it’s not advisable to compare your settlement with someone else’s.
Your ex will be under a duty to disclose all savings – including those off shore.
Q: What if my ex hides information from the court? The Supreme Court has made it clear: the omission of important disclosure could render any order void. Your ex will be warned that this is the case by his or her lawyers.
Q: I read in the papers that the courts have told people to go back to work and that they will not award maintenance. Is this true?
We believe it is important that you seek legal advice during this process. The award winning team I work with have years of experience dealing with financial settlements. The approach we would take and recommend, is to look at the offer with you in the context of what capital is available and what your needs are.
Q: I am not earning at the moment. Do I have to get a job or does my ex have to maintain me?
Call us on
If your ex entered into a contract of marriage or civil partnership with you he or she agreed to maintain you for the rest of your life. You owe your partner the same obligation. But courts have a duty to achieve a clean break between separating spouses or civil partners, where possible. This is done by looking
Offices in Manchester, Chester and throughout the UK
0808 175 7909 slatergordon.co.uk
Slater and Gordon (UK) LLP is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority.
A fair divorce settlement? Let Liz be the judge of that.
Meet family lawyer, Liz Cowell. Liz, part of the award-winning Family Law Team at Slater and Gordon, boasts over 30 years’ experience specialising in complex family law matters. Being a judge, an arbitrator and a lawyer gives her the experience and the knowledge to look at the situation from every angle. She works tirelessly with you to secure the best possible financial settlement.
Call us on 0800 175 7909 slatergordon.co.uk Offices in Manchester, Chester and throughout the UK
Family | Employment | Estate Planning | Wills and Probate | Property | Business Legal Services
Slater and Gordon (UK) LLP is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority.
Style | The CHESHIRE Magazine
T
he Reiss winter offerings are divided into several collections – and we want them all. While Portrait in Black is influenced by the theatrical works of the Bloomsbury artists, Devil in the City is more decadent: think intense colour (clementine, cobalt, slate and racing green) and intricate details. Reiss is excellent at workwear, but this is one for parties: the After Dark range sees more opulent and embellished fabrics, while colours deepen – we love the Lola turquoise dress and Ellie shearling jacket. The Grand Affair offers premium, glamorous pieces with vintage nods. (reiss.com)
Rejoice with
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Marc Cain Elie Tahari Diane von Furstenberg Beate Heymann Paul Smith PS High Class by Roberto Cavalli Laurel Patrizia Pepe Riani Airfield Hale Bob SportAlm Joseph D.Exterior AND MORE
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50A High Street, TARPORLEY, Cheshire CW6 0AG Tel. 01829 733251 www.sibelle.co.uk info@sibelle.co.uk www.facebook.com/si.belle.tarporley Opening hours: Monday to Friday 10:00 – 5:30 and Saturday 9:30 – 5:30
Evenings & Sundays by appointment.
Rule, Britalia! Another Italian name has appeared in lights in the capital, as designer Luisa Spagnoli has chosen a prime Piccadilly spot to open her London boutique. Spagnoli has embraced quintessential British style in her AW16 collection, which features tartans, checks, tweeds, and a hint of glam rock – all set against a backdrop of bold red telephone boxes and underground station signs. From £55 (luisaspagnoli.com)
Fashion news Shine On Beirut-born Racil Chalhoub’s modern tailoring brand was launched just last year, but it has already made quite an impression with pieces that can easily be dressed up or down. Selfridges has now curated an exclusive eight-piece collection of Racil party separates in a glittering array of fabrics: from the slinky 1990s-style Beverly dress à la Kate Moss, to the disco-ball tuxedo jacket (pictured above) that will add a little groove to any outfit. Phoenix tuxedo jacket, £710, available exclusively at Selfridges (selfridges.com)
From Milan to Mount Street Milanese accessories label Valextra recently joined the Mount Street elite: founded in 1937, it is best known for its structural handbags and practical luggage. The minimal interior scheme, designed by Philippe Malouin of Post-Office studio, reflects Valextra’s architectural aesthetic, and the lighter tones of the walls and carpet particularly enhance the bright patterns in this season’s collection (from £295). (valextra.com)
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Winter Hunterland
loves
The great British rain is inescapable, so why not make it enjoyable? Heritage brand Hunter Original always manages to make practical outerwear look and feel stylish. We’ve got our eye on this streamlined, rubberised cape and the shearling-lined leather lace-ups from its North Sea-inspired AW16 collection. They’re ideal for frolicking in the erratic winter weather and – fingers crossed – building some snowmen. Cape, £225 and boots, £185, Hunter Original (hunterboots.com)
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Style
His and Her-mès There’s big news for Hermès fans, as the luxury brand opens their eagerlyawaited expanded store in Selfridges, Exchange Square – with stunning silk, fashion accessories, perfume and leather goods now spread over two decadent floors, with special areas dedicated to women’s and men’s ready-to-wear, shoes, the Hermès home collections, jewellery and watches. We especially love the fabulously dramatic staircase linking the two floors, which scales both the inside of the store and the outer façade of the building. But then, Hermès always has made our hearts race. (selfridges.com)
Return of the Macandreas We first saw Vivienne Westwood’s MacAndreas tartan back in her 1993 Gold Label collection Anglomania (the show in which Naomi Campbell stumbled in those staggering blue platforms). The tartan is in homage to Westwood’s husband Andreas Kronthaler, and has been resurrected in a range of orange and navy scarves and stoles by Johnstons of Elgin. Tailored fit bonded mac coat with Stormwear, Cashmere blue tartan scarf, £150, Vivienne Westwood x Johnstons of Elgin (viviennewestwood.com)
Best Foot Forward Tarporley has a new luxury footwear boutique, and we are already head over – ahem – heels for their hand-picked designer brands. Going by the fabulous name Hoity Toity, the boutique stocks collections from leading designers such as Rachel Zoe, Stuart Weitzman, Nicholas Kirkwood, Rupert Sanderson and Emma Hope – some rarely found outside London, New York and Milan. Owners Tiffany and Steve pride themselves on providing an unrivalled shopping experience for their clients, whether they are looking for designer key party pieces or everyday footwear, and the store also stocks products from The Soho Furrier, creators of beautifully made – and responsibly sourced – luxury fur clothing and accessories. 73b Tarporley High Street, Tarporley (01829 733800; hoitytoityshoes.co.uk)
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Topcoat, £3,630, jumper, £1,295, and trousers, £1,990, all Ralph Lauren Collection (ralphlauren.co.uk)
CHECK
MATE Throw out the heavy woollen blankets and Scottish kilts, tartan has had a makeover this season with oversized coats, tailored trousers and flared midi skirts P h o t o g r a p h y : H E L E N E S A N D B E RG S t y l i n g : K AR E N M U N N I S
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Style
LEFT Jacket and skirt, POA, both Lisa Redman for Holland & Sherry (lisaredman.co.uk); blouse, £1,140, Ralph Lauren Collection (ralphlauren.co.uk); socks, £10, Falke (falke.com); shoes, £350, Robert Clergerie (robertclergerie.com); bag, £1,395, Jimmy Choo (jimmychoo.com)
ABOVE Fitted rib tube top, £440, bustier, £1,050, and skirt, £1,350, all Victoria Beckham (victoriabeckham.com); gloves, £129, Dents (dents.co.uk)
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Style | The CHESHIRE Magazine
ABOVE Coat, £395, Harris Wharf London, available at Workshop (workshop-london.co.uk); dress, £480, Toga Pulla (matchesfashion.com); socks, £10, Falke (falke.com); shoes, £120, Underground (underground-shop.co.uk)
RIGHT Coat, £2,295, and dress, £1,995, both Burberry (burberry.com)
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CREDITS Hair: Adam Garland using Cloud Nine and Oribe Make-up: Shama at One Represents using MAC Cosmetics Model: Lucy Evans at Select Model Management Photographer’s assistant: Max Barlow Stylist’s assistants: Sarah Akinola and Holly Lissack
Beauty news
All that Glitters
Time for a Soak Take the stress out of the new year with a long, relaxing bath. Step forward Olverum Bath Oil – the deeply aromatic bath oil that contains ten pure essential oils, including eucalyptus, lavender and juniper, and promises to relieve stress, ease aching muscles and aid a good night’s sleep. The light, non-greasy formula is absorbed into the skin, leaving you feeling soft and pampered and ready for anything. From 23.50 (olverum.com)
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Dior’s latest collection, Splendor, has raised the bar for party season. Eyeshadow palettes in white, black and smoky silver, or pink, mauve and violet, feature an embossed sequin motif that pays homage to the artistry of its couture atelier; while pearlescent nail shades include pink and gold-specked garnet red. The two-in-one Diorific Matte Fluid – suitable for colouring both lips and cheeks – will serve unfailingly on any special winter’s night From £20.50 (dior.com)
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Style
TREATMENT OF THE MONTH
THE ULTIMATE AROMATHERAPY EXPERIENCE WORDS: louisa castle
Aesop’s Adventures Chester MediSPA is a brand new state-ofthe-art clinic in the heart of Chester (but with that all-essential parking facility). They offer a whole host of cutting-edge aesthetic treatments, but I was here to sample the specialist massage. The unmistakable scents of Aromatherapy Associates greet me as I fill out my consultation form in the tranquil waiting area. It is the week before Christmas, so I am ticking the calming, de-stress boxes with gusto. My therapist, Melanie, promises to sort me out. The treatment rooms are spacious, luxurious but practical and calming. My focus, however, is on smelling the essential oils Melanie is offering – the one that is the most appealing to me is the one my body most needs; balance and calm. As my back massage begins and Melanie sets to work on my shoulders, I do drift, despite not being very good at switching off. Nearly an hour later, I was ready to rise from my bed and head back to reality. Melanie left me to come to in my own time and dress, returning to fill me in on some ideas to keep the feeling going at home. Most importantly, as I got ready to leave, the lightness in my shoulders was clear. I felt like I was walking taller, more flexible and ready to face the rest of the week. I am a fan of Aromatherapy Associates products but will admit to not really understanding their ethos of mindful beauty. Now, I am learning, and have booked my next appointment. Aromatherapy Asssociates spa therapies Chester MediSPA Frodsham Court, Frodsham Street, Chester, CH1 3JT (01244 723300; chestermedispa.co.uk)
A beautifully-presented gift set is always a winner, and Aesop’s new Pursuits of Passion theme leads the pack this winter. Six editions celebrate the work of naturalists, including Maria Sibylla Merian, who travelled – on what was said to be the world’s first purely scientific expedition – to the Dutch colony of Surinam in 1699 to study indigenous flora and fauna. Named in her honour, The Avid Explorer is a quartet of body products (think balms, cleanser and hand wash), while other sets focus on skin, hair or male grooming. Sweet illustrations by Norwegian artist Bendik Kaltenborn lend a stylish finishing touch. From £50 (aesop.com)
Gold Digger Burberry’s winter collection is all about one precious metal in particular: from its limited edition metallic packaging to glittery Shimmer Dust. Gold flakes turn My Burberry Eau De Parfum into a sparkling snow globe, and for a unique extra touch, the bottle itself can also be monogrammed on request. From £15 (uk.burberry.com)
Bigger and Better Due to the popularity of their studio classes and following a significant investment, Health & Spa at The Mere has expanded to include a new Garden Exercise studio, meaning that they can now offer a larger studio class programme, as well as new classes and even an event space to be used by members for social occasions. The Spa has also benefited from new equipment on the gym floor and new menus from the kitchen team. As testament to these improvements, The Spa has been awarded the 5-star bubble by The Good Spa Guide once again. (themereresort.co.uk) 79
A Nose for
success Ahead of the launch of her autobiography, Jo Malone MBE sits down with Ellen Millard to chat Jo Loves, Pink Fridays and how to resuscitate a dog
J
o Malone smells incredible. Has there ever been a creepier opening line to an interview? Perhaps not, but I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t knocked off my olfactory socks when I sat down with the prolific perfumer. The scent in question? Her very own Pomelo, of course. “Pomelo is the fragrance I have the biggest relationship with,” she tells me over coffee in her Elizabeth Street shop. “It gave me a second go at creating fragrance and I wear it every single day.” It was this citrusy concoction that catapulted Malone’s second business into being, following a five-year gap between her current business, Jo Loves, and her first, Jo Malone London. For those of you who still associate the perfumer with the monochrome-packaged Lime, Basil and Mandarin scent, let me bring you up to speed: Jo Malone London was sold to Estée Lauder in 1999 and its founder stayed on as creative director until 2006, when she stepped down following an aggressive battle with cancer. This preceded a five-year lock-out period that
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prevented Malone from entering the industry, both alone or in collaboration with another brand. At the time, she brushed the clause off, insisting that she would never make a fragrance again. But shortly into her five-year hiatus, the perfumer felt the pull of the chemistry lab once again. “I realised that I missed creating fragrances more than anything.” It was Pomelo that paved the way for Jo Loves, which launched in 2011 with a pop-up store at Selfridges. Two years later, the brand’s standalone boutique in Belgravia opened its doors. “When I left Jo Malone London, although it was completely my call, I was still trying to find who I was again after years of chemotherapy. It changed me,” she says. “When I started Jo Loves, I wanted a clean sheet. To look at life very differently. This brand is all about the things I love, from the fragrance to the people to the packaging.” Five years since its launch and it’s safe to say that Jo Loves has its feet firmly planted in the fragrance world, with global expansion next on
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Style
the agenda. It’s for this reason that Malone felt it was the right time to pen her memoirs. “When you build a business and you sell it, that’s normally the time to write a book, but I didn’t feel emotionally ready. I felt in order for me to write my autobiography, I needed to be standing on a mountainside looking down, not standing in a valley,” she explains. “After I was inaugurated into the World Retail Hall of Fame and recognised as a shopkeeper for Jo Loves, I could feel the roar of that person within me again.” My Story is a warts-and-all delve into the 52-year-old perfumer’s life, charting her trajectory from a secondary school drop-out to business connoisseur, with no detail spared on the difficulties she has encountered along the way, from her cancer battle and subsequent departure from her label, to starting again and building a new brand from scratch. “Some of it was very painful and some of it made me laugh. I sat and sobbed through some of it,” she admits. “I wanted my voice to be very strong throughout and for everyone to see who I really was. I think people assume that I’m a certain person because they’ve followed the brand for a long time.”
“You can’t assume you can just walk into another territory – you have to go and prepare the groundwork first” I get the impression that trying to make the world differentiate between Jo Malone the brand and Jo Malone the person has been a particular sticking point for her, and while she politely bats off any questions about her former business, it isn’t out of bitterness, but because she’s making sure that the past
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Style | The CHESHIRE Magazine
doesn’t preside over the present. That was then, and this is now. For the record, Jo Malone the person is both laid-back and focused, sometimes candid and at other times reticent, at one point steering the conversation in the direction she wants it to go and at another going off on a tangent about the correct way to resuscitate a dog (“God forbid I’d ever have to, but I think it’s a really good thing to know”). Her ambition is palpable and she wears her hardships like a shield, but she strikes me as the kind of boss you could have a glass of wine with, too. In fact, her office celebrates ‘pink Fridays’ – a weekly tradition where the team gets together and toasts the triumphs of the previous five days – whether that be finding a bottle cap or booking a huge contract with Net-a-Porter. It’s clear to see how she has achieved success not just once, but twice. She lights up when I ask about her MBE, for which she flew her New York-based doctor to the UK especially for the ceremony. “I was so excited to see him that I shut the feather of my pink hat in the car door and snapped it off,” she laughs. “To be honoured by your country for doing something is so amazing. I was standing in a room full of soldiers who had done so many heroic things – and Kylie Minogue as well.” When not concocting new scents, you can find Malone in Chelsea, the home of her first eureka moment with her eponymous brand and where she still lives. Next on the agenda for Jo Loves is global domination, which Malone and her team have been quietly coordinating for the past few years. “You can’t assume you can just walk into another territory – you have to go and prepare the groundwork first. We’re doing things in Dubai, China and America, but I’m not going to tell you whereabouts,” she grins. It may have been a bumpy road for Malone, but there are few people who’ve mastered the fragrance industry as well as she has, stealing the show with her aromatic
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concoctions that have decked the shelves of many a beauty cabinet for the best part of two decades. It’s not a bad feat for somebody who has often spoken of how she struggled at school – a period made worse by her dyslexia, which is so severe one teacher told her that she would never amount to anything. ‘Who’s laughing now’ is a phrase that springs to mind, but Malone strikes me as someone who has never lived her life to suit others. “I don’t create fragrances that other people think are the right thing,” she says, simply. “I create a fragrance because I think it’s the right thing. An artist doesn’t paint a picture so that everyone else loves it. They paint a picture because that’s who they are, and I create fragrances because that’s who I am.” Jo Malone: My Story is out now, £20 (joloves.com)
Style | The CHESHIRE Magazine
The
minas Touch
F
or the ultimate gent, no bathroom counter would be complete without this beautiful sterling silver shaving kit from Greek jewellery makers, Minas. As with their pendants, earrings, bracelets and rings, the shaving kit is created anatomically to perfectly fit the human body – an ethos inspired by Mr Minas’ desire to solve problems through beautiful design, and by incorporating organic flow and intrinsic harmony. £8,500 (minasdesigns.com)
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ConventionalÊdentureÊsolutionsÊsuchÊas All in One Day... removableÊdentures,ÊoftenÊrequiringÊtheÊaid ofÊadhesives,ÊdoÊnotÊadequatelyÊaddress TreatmentÊbeginsÊearlyÊinÊtheÊmorning.Ê theseÊissues.ÊOverÊrecentÊyearsÊTheÊDental ConventionalÊdentureÊsolutionsÊsuchÊas AnyÊfailingÊteethÊareÊremovedÊandÊthe All in One Day... AcademyÊhasÊbeenÊatÊtheÊforefrontÊinÊthe removableÊdentures,ÊoftenÊrequiringÊtheÊaid dentalÊimplantsÊareÊplaced. advancementÊof,ÊandÊinvestmentÊin,Êdental ofÊadhesives,ÊdoÊnotÊadequatelyÊaddress ConventionalÊdentureÊsolutionsÊsuchÊas implants,ÊandÊitsÊdedicationÊtoÊoffering TreatmentÊbeginsÊearlyÊinÊtheÊmorning.Ê All in One Day... theseÊissues.ÊOverÊrecentÊyearsÊTheÊDental PatientsÊcanÊthenÊrelaxÊinÊtheÊcalmingÊand removableÊdentures,ÊoftenÊrequiringÊtheÊaid dentureÊwearersÊmoreÊchoiceÊhasÊledÊtoÊa AnyÊfailingÊteethÊareÊremovedÊandÊthe AcademyÊhasÊbeenÊatÊtheÊforefrontÊinÊthe privateÊatmosphereÊofÊtheÊAcademyÊor,Êif ofÊadhesives,ÊdoÊnotÊadequatelyÊaddress significantÊimprovementÊinÊqualityÊofÊlifeÊfor dentalÊimplantsÊareÊplaced. TreatmentÊbeginsÊearlyÊinÊtheÊmorning.Ê advancementÊof,ÊandÊinvestmentÊin,Êdental theyÊprefer,ÊmayÊreturnÊhomeÊforÊaÊcouple theseÊissues.ÊOverÊrecentÊyearsÊTheÊDental itsÊpatients. AnyÊfailingÊteethÊareÊremovedÊandÊthe ConventionalÊdentureÊsolutionsÊsuchÊas implants,ÊandÊitsÊdedicationÊtoÊoffering ofÊhoursÊwhilstÊtheirÊbespokeÊteethÊare All in One Day... AcademyÊhasÊbeenÊatÊtheÊforefrontÊinÊthe PatientsÊcanÊthenÊrelaxÊinÊtheÊcalmingÊand dentalÊimplantsÊareÊplaced. removableÊdentures,ÊoftenÊrequiringÊtheÊaid dentureÊwearersÊmoreÊchoiceÊhasÊledÊtoÊa constructedÊbyÊourÊtechnician. advancementÊof,ÊandÊinvestmentÊin,Êdental OneÊofÊtheÊbiggestÊfearsÊpeopleÊwhoÊhave privateÊatmosphereÊofÊtheÊAcademyÊor,Êif ofÊadhesives,ÊdoÊnotÊadequatelyÊaddress significantÊimprovementÊinÊqualityÊofÊlifeÊfor implants,ÊandÊitsÊdedicationÊtoÊoffering lost,ÊorÊareÊaboutÊtoÊlose,ÊallÊofÊtheirÊteeth TreatmentÊbeginsÊearlyÊinÊtheÊmorning.Ê theyÊprefer,ÊmayÊreturnÊhomeÊforÊaÊcouple PatientsÊcanÊthenÊrelaxÊinÊtheÊcalmingÊand theseÊissues.ÊOverÊrecentÊyearsÊTheÊDental itsÊpatients. TheÊbridgeÊandÊreplacementÊteethÊwillÊthen dentureÊwearersÊmoreÊchoiceÊhasÊledÊtoÊa haveÊisÊtheÊprospectÊofÊbeingÊwithoutÊany AnyÊfailingÊteethÊareÊremovedÊandÊthe ofÊhoursÊwhilstÊtheirÊbespokeÊteethÊare privateÊatmosphereÊofÊtheÊAcademyÊor,Êif AcademyÊhasÊbeenÊatÊtheÊforefrontÊinÊthe beÊexpertlyÊfittedÊandÊpatientsÊleaveÊwithÊa significantÊimprovementÊinÊqualityÊofÊlifeÊfor teethÊatÊallÊforÊaÊperiodÊofÊtime. dentalÊimplantsÊareÊplaced. constructedÊbyÊourÊtechnician. ConventionalÊdentureÊsolutionsÊsuchÊas Totally fixed, permanent theyÊprefer,ÊmayÊreturnÊhomeÊforÊaÊcouple advancementÊof,ÊandÊinvestmentÊin,Êdental OneÊofÊtheÊbiggestÊfearsÊpeopleÊwhoÊhave confidentÊsmile,ÊandÊlookingÊforwardÊtoÊthe All in One Day... itsÊpatients. removableÊdentures,ÊoftenÊrequiringÊtheÊaid ofÊhoursÊwhilstÊtheirÊbespokeÊteethÊare implants,ÊandÊitsÊdedicationÊtoÊoffering lost,ÊorÊareÊaboutÊtoÊlose,ÊallÊofÊtheirÊteeth enhancedÊqualityÊofÊlifeÊthatÊgoesÊwithÊitÊ-Êall set of teeth TheÊÒTeethÊinÊOneÊDayÓÊconceptÊalleviates PatientsÊcanÊthenÊrelaxÊinÊtheÊcalmingÊand TheÊbridgeÊandÊreplacementÊteethÊwillÊthen ofÊadhesives,ÊdoÊnotÊadequatelyÊaddress constructedÊbyÊourÊtechnician. dentureÊwearersÊmoreÊchoiceÊhasÊledÊtoÊa haveÊisÊtheÊprospectÊofÊbeingÊwithoutÊany inÊoneÊday. OneÊofÊtheÊbiggestÊfearsÊpeopleÊwhoÊhave TreatmentÊbeginsÊearlyÊinÊtheÊmorning.Ê thisÊfear.ÊPatientsÊleaveÊatÊtheÊendÊofÊthe privateÊatmosphereÊofÊtheÊAcademyÊor,Êif beÊexpertlyÊfittedÊandÊpatientsÊleaveÊwithÊa theseÊissues.ÊOverÊrecentÊyearsÊTheÊDental significantÊimprovementÊinÊqualityÊofÊlifeÊfor teethÊatÊallÊforÊaÊperiodÊofÊtime. lost,ÊorÊareÊaboutÊtoÊlose,ÊallÊofÊtheirÊteeth AnyÊfailingÊteethÊareÊremovedÊandÊthe dayÊwithÊtheirÊÒveryÊownÓÊnewÊteeth.ÊThe Life-like natural smile theyÊprefer,ÊmayÊreturnÊhomeÊforÊaÊcouple confidentÊsmile,ÊandÊlookingÊforwardÊtoÊthe AcademyÊhasÊbeenÊatÊtheÊforefrontÊinÊthe TheÊbridgeÊandÊreplacementÊteethÊwillÊthen itsÊpatients. haveÊisÊtheÊprospectÊofÊbeingÊwithoutÊany dentalÊimplantsÊareÊplaced. conceptÊusesÊanÊimplantÊsupportedÊbridge ConventionalÊdentureÊsolutionsÊsuchÊas ofÊhoursÊwhilstÊtheirÊbespokeÊteethÊare enhancedÊqualityÊofÊlifeÊthatÊgoesÊwithÊitÊ-Êall All in One Day... advancementÊof,ÊandÊinvestmentÊin,Êdental beÊexpertlyÊfittedÊandÊpatientsÊleaveÊwithÊa TheÊÒTeethÊinÊOneÊDayÓÊconceptÊalleviates teethÊatÊallÊforÊaÊperiodÊofÊtime. -ÊaÊbridgeÊofÊreplacementÊteethÊfixed removableÊdentures,ÊoftenÊrequiringÊtheÊaid constructedÊbyÊourÊtechnician. inÊoneÊday. implants,ÊandÊitsÊdedicationÊtoÊoffering Nothing covering the confidentÊsmile,ÊandÊlookingÊforwardÊtoÊthe OneÊofÊtheÊbiggestÊfearsÊpeopleÊwhoÊhave thisÊfear.ÊPatientsÊleaveÊatÊtheÊendÊofÊthe PatientsÊcanÊthenÊrelaxÊinÊtheÊcalmingÊand securelyÊbyÊdentalÊimplants.ÊTheÊbridge ofÊadhesives,ÊdoÊnotÊadequatelyÊaddress dentureÊwearersÊmoreÊchoiceÊhasÊledÊtoÊa enhancedÊqualityÊofÊlifeÊthatÊgoesÊwithÊitÊ-Êall lost,ÊorÊareÊaboutÊtoÊlose,ÊallÊofÊtheirÊteeth dayÊwithÊtheirÊÒveryÊownÓÊnewÊteeth.ÊThe TreatmentÊbeginsÊearlyÊinÊtheÊmorning.Ê roof of the mouth TheÊÒTeethÊinÊOneÊDayÓÊconceptÊalleviates privateÊatmosphereÊofÊtheÊAcademyÊor,Êif representsÊanÊexcitingÊadvanceÊinÊtheÊuse theseÊissues.ÊOverÊrecentÊyearsÊTheÊDental TheÊbridgeÊandÊreplacementÊteethÊwillÊthen significantÊimprovementÊinÊqualityÊofÊlifeÊfor inÊoneÊday. haveÊisÊtheÊprospectÊofÊbeingÊwithoutÊany conceptÊusesÊanÊimplantÊsupportedÊbridge AnyÊfailingÊteethÊareÊremovedÊandÊthe thisÊfear.ÊPatientsÊleaveÊatÊtheÊendÊofÊthe theyÊprefer,ÊmayÊreturnÊhomeÊforÊaÊcouple ofÊimplantÊretainedÊdentures,ÊrequiringÊthe AcademyÊhasÊbeenÊatÊtheÊforefrontÊinÊthe beÊexpertlyÊfittedÊandÊpatientsÊleaveÊwithÊa itsÊpatients. teethÊatÊallÊforÊaÊperiodÊofÊtime. -ÊaÊbridgeÊofÊreplacementÊteethÊfixed dentalÊimplantsÊareÊplaced. dayÊwithÊtheirÊÒveryÊownÓÊnewÊteeth.ÊThe ofÊhoursÊwhilstÊtheirÊbespokeÊteethÊare useÊofÊjustÊfourÊdentalÊimplants. Perfect solution for advancementÊof,ÊandÊinvestmentÊin,Êdental confidentÊsmile,ÊandÊlookingÊforwardÊtoÊthe securelyÊbyÊdentalÊimplants.ÊTheÊbridge conceptÊusesÊanÊimplantÊsupportedÊbridge constructedÊbyÊourÊtechnician. implants,ÊandÊitsÊdedicationÊtoÊoffering enhancedÊqualityÊofÊlifeÊthatÊgoesÊwithÊitÊ-Êall patients who are losing OneÊofÊtheÊbiggestÊfearsÊpeopleÊwhoÊhave TheÊÒTeethÊinÊOneÊDayÓÊconceptÊalleviates representsÊanÊexcitingÊadvanceÊinÊtheÊuse PatientsÊcanÊthenÊrelaxÊinÊtheÊcalmingÊand -ÊaÊbridgeÊofÊreplacementÊteethÊfixed dentureÊwearersÊmoreÊchoiceÊhasÊledÊtoÊa inÊoneÊday. ConventionalÊdentureÊsolutionsÊsuchÊas ConventionalÊdentureÊsolutionsÊsuchÊas lost,ÊorÊareÊaboutÊtoÊlose,ÊallÊofÊtheirÊteeth teeth due to gum disease thisÊfear.ÊPatientsÊleaveÊatÊtheÊendÊofÊthe ofÊimplantÊretainedÊdentures,ÊrequiringÊthe privateÊatmosphereÊofÊtheÊAcademyÊor,Êif securelyÊbyÊdentalÊimplants.ÊTheÊbridge TheÊbridgeÊandÊreplacementÊteethÊwillÊthen significantÊimprovementÊinÊqualityÊofÊlifeÊfor haveÊisÊtheÊprospectÊofÊbeingÊwithoutÊany removableÊdentures,ÊoftenÊrequiringÊtheÊaid removableÊdentures,ÊoftenÊrequiringÊtheÊaid dayÊwithÊtheirÊÒveryÊownÓÊnewÊteeth.ÊThe useÊofÊjustÊfourÊdentalÊimplants. theyÊprefer,ÊmayÊreturnÊhomeÊforÊaÊcouple representsÊanÊexcitingÊadvanceÊinÊtheÊuse beÊexpertlyÊfittedÊandÊpatientsÊleaveÊwithÊa itsÊpatients. teethÊatÊallÊforÊaÊperiodÊofÊtime. conceptÊusesÊanÊimplantÊsupportedÊbridge ofÊhoursÊwhilstÊtheirÊbespokeÊteethÊare ofÊadhesives,ÊdoÊnotÊadequatelyÊaddress ofÊadhesives,ÊdoÊnotÊadequatelyÊaddress Often only four dental ofÊimplantÊretainedÊdentures,ÊrequiringÊthe confidentÊsmile,ÊandÊlookingÊforwardÊtoÊthe TreatmentÊbeginsÊearlyÊinÊtheÊmorning.Ê -ÊaÊbridgeÊofÊreplacementÊteethÊfixed TreatmentÊbeginsÊearlyÊinÊtheÊmorning.Ê constructedÊbyÊourÊtechnician. theseÊissues.ÊOverÊrecentÊyearsÊTheÊDental theseÊissues.ÊOverÊrecentÊyearsÊTheÊDental useÊofÊjustÊfourÊdentalÊimplants. enhancedÊqualityÊofÊlifeÊthatÊgoesÊwithÊitÊ-Êall implants are required OneÊofÊtheÊbiggestÊfearsÊpeopleÊwhoÊhave TheÊÒTeethÊinÊOneÊDayÓÊconceptÊalleviates securelyÊbyÊdentalÊimplants.ÊTheÊbridge AnyÊfailingÊteethÊareÊremovedÊandÊthe AnyÊfailingÊteethÊareÊremovedÊandÊthe inÊoneÊday. AcademyÊhasÊbeenÊatÊtheÊforefrontÊinÊthe lost,ÊorÊareÊaboutÊtoÊlose,ÊallÊofÊtheirÊteeth AcademyÊhasÊbeenÊatÊtheÊforefrontÊinÊthe to replace a full set of teeth thisÊfear.ÊPatientsÊleaveÊatÊtheÊendÊofÊthe representsÊanÊexcitingÊadvanceÊinÊtheÊuse TheÊbridgeÊandÊreplacementÊteethÊwillÊthen dentalÊimplantsÊareÊplaced. dentalÊimplantsÊareÊplaced. haveÊisÊtheÊprospectÊofÊbeingÊwithoutÊany advancementÊof,ÊandÊinvestmentÊin,Êdental advancementÊof,ÊandÊinvestmentÊin,Êdental dayÊwithÊtheirÊÒveryÊownÓÊnewÊteeth.ÊThe ofÊimplantÊretainedÊdentures,ÊrequiringÊthe beÊexpertlyÊfittedÊandÊpatientsÊleaveÊwithÊa teethÊatÊallÊforÊaÊperiodÊofÊtime. conceptÊusesÊanÊimplantÊsupportedÊbridge implants,ÊandÊitsÊdedicationÊtoÊoffering implants,ÊandÊitsÊdedicationÊtoÊoffering useÊofÊjustÊfourÊdentalÊimplants. confidentÊsmile,ÊandÊlookingÊforwardÊtoÊthe No more loose dentures PatientsÊcanÊthenÊrelaxÊinÊtheÊcalmingÊand -ÊaÊbridgeÊofÊreplacementÊteethÊfixed PatientsÊcanÊthenÊrelaxÊinÊtheÊcalmingÊand enhancedÊqualityÊofÊlifeÊthatÊgoesÊwithÊitÊ-Êall dentureÊwearersÊmoreÊchoiceÊhasÊledÊtoÊa dentureÊwearersÊmoreÊchoiceÊhasÊledÊtoÊa TheÊÒTeethÊinÊOneÊDayÓÊconceptÊalleviates securelyÊbyÊdentalÊimplants.ÊTheÊbridge privateÊatmosphereÊofÊtheÊAcademyÊor,Êif privateÊatmosphereÊofÊtheÊAcademyÊor,Êif inÊoneÊday. significantÊimprovementÊinÊqualityÊofÊlifeÊfor significantÊimprovementÊinÊqualityÊofÊlifeÊfor A new set of teeth, complete thisÊfear.ÊPatientsÊleaveÊatÊtheÊendÊofÊthe representsÊanÊexcitingÊadvanceÊinÊtheÊuse theyÊprefer,ÊmayÊreturnÊhomeÊforÊaÊcouple theyÊprefer,ÊmayÊreturnÊhomeÊforÊaÊcouple itsÊpatients. dayÊwithÊtheirÊÒveryÊownÓÊnewÊteeth.ÊThe itsÊpatients. and fitted all in one day in ofÊimplantÊretainedÊdentures,ÊrequiringÊthe ofÊhoursÊwhilstÊtheirÊbespokeÊteethÊare ofÊhoursÊwhilstÊtheirÊbespokeÊteethÊare conceptÊusesÊanÊimplantÊsupportedÊbridge useÊofÊjustÊfourÊdentalÊimplants. a simple T H E D E N TA L T H E K N U TS F O R D procedure, leaves constructedÊbyÊourÊtechnician. -ÊaÊbridgeÊofÊreplacementÊteethÊfixed constructedÊbyÊourÊtechnician. OneÊofÊtheÊbiggestÊfearsÊpeopleÊwhoÊhave OneÊofÊtheÊbiggestÊfearsÊpeopleÊwhoÊhave patients AC A D E M Y D A R E S B U RY D E N TA L AC A D E M Ysmiling confidently securelyÊbyÊdentalÊimplants.ÊTheÊbridge lost,ÊorÊareÊaboutÊtoÊlose,ÊallÊofÊtheirÊteeth lost,ÊorÊareÊaboutÊtoÊlose,ÊallÊofÊtheirÊteeth and naturally once again. representsÊanÊexcitingÊadvanceÊinÊtheÊuse Using the latest technology andRoad, expertise, The Dental Academy offers TheÊbridgeÊandÊreplacementÊteethÊwillÊthen TheÊbridgeÊandÊreplacementÊteethÊwillÊthen Chester Daresbury WA4 5LR Malt House, Malt Street, Knutsford, WA16 6ES haveÊisÊtheÊprospectÊofÊbeingÊwithoutÊany haveÊisÊtheÊprospectÊofÊbeingÊwithoutÊany ofÊimplantÊretainedÊdentures,ÊrequiringÊthe T H E D E N TA L T H E K N U TS F O RD 01925 740510 Phone: 01565 755765 the perfect solution to missingPhone: or failing teeth. beÊexpertlyÊfittedÊandÊpatientsÊleaveÊwithÊa beÊexpertlyÊfittedÊandÊpatientsÊleaveÊwithÊa useÊofÊjustÊfourÊdentalÊimplants. teethÊatÊallÊforÊaÊperiodÊofÊtime. teethÊatÊallÊforÊaÊperiodÊofÊtime. AC A Dwww.dentalacademy.co.uk E M Y D A R E S B U RY D Ewww.dentalacademy.co.uk N TA L AC A D E M Y
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AllOne in One Day... All in Day...
Teeth in One Day
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T H E D Ein NenhancedÊqualityÊofÊlifeÊthatÊgoesÊwithÊitÊ-Êall TA T H E K N U TS F O R D With more than 25 years’ Chester experience theLWA4 field enhancedÊqualityÊofÊlifeÊthatÊgoesÊwithÊitÊ-Êall Road, Daresbury 5LRof dental implants, the Malt House, Malt Street, Knutsford, WA16 6ES TheÊÒTeethÊinÊOneÊDayÓÊconceptÊalleviates TheÊÒTeethÊinÊOneÊDayÓÊconceptÊalleviates AC A D E M Y D A R E S B U RY D E NPhone: TA L 01565 AC A755765 DEMY Phone: 01925 740510 team at The Dental Academy understands the impact that total tooth inÊoneÊday. inÊoneÊday. thisÊfear.ÊPatientsÊleaveÊatÊtheÊendÊofÊthe thisÊfear.ÊPatientsÊleaveÊatÊtheÊendÊofÊthe www.dentalacademy.co.uk www.dentalacademy.co.uk loss can have on personalChester confidence and quality Road, Daresbury WA4 5LR of life. Everyday Malt House, Malt Street, Knutsford, WA16 6ES dayÊwithÊtheirÊÒveryÊownÓÊnewÊteeth.ÊThe dayÊwithÊtheirÊÒveryÊownÓÊnewÊteeth.ÊThe TPhone: H E talking D01925 E N TA L appearance can all T H EPhone: KNU TS F755765 ORD 740510 01565 functions such as eating, smiling, and conceptÊusesÊanÊimplantÊsupportedÊbridge conceptÊusesÊanÊimplantÊsupportedÊbridge www.dentalacademy.co.uk www.dentalacademy.co.uk AC A D E M Y D A R E S B U RY D E N TA L AC A D EMY be adversely affected. Removable dentures often require the aid -ÊaÊbridgeÊofÊreplacementÊteethÊfixed -ÊaÊbridgeÊofÊreplacementÊteethÊfixed of adhesives and do not adequately address the Chester Road, Daresbury WA4 5LRissues. However, Malt House, Malt Street, Knutsford, WA16 6ES securelyÊbyÊdentalÊimplants.ÊTheÊbridge securelyÊbyÊdentalÊimplants.ÊTheÊbridge Phone: Academy 01925 740510 is at the forefront in Phone: 01565 755765 there is an alternative – The Dental representsÊanÊexcitingÊadvanceÊinÊtheÊuse representsÊanÊexcitingÊadvanceÊinÊtheÊuse www.dentalacademy.co.uk T H E D Ein, N TA L T Hwww.dentalacademy.co.uk E K N U TS F O R D the advancement of, and investment dental implants. The team’s ofÊimplantÊretainedÊdentures,ÊrequiringÊthe ofÊimplantÊretainedÊdentures,ÊrequiringÊthe ADEMY D R E S B U RY dedication to offering anAC alternative toAwearing dentures has seen a huge D E N TA L AC A D E M Y useÊofÊjustÊfourÊdentalÊimplants. useÊofÊjustÊfourÊdentalÊimplants. improvement in quality ofChester life forRoad, many patients. Daresbury WA4 5LR Malt House, Malt Street, Knutsford, WA16 6ES Phone: 01925 740510
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E NLTA L T H ET H D E NDTA DYE M B U RY AC AAC D EAM DYA RDEASRBEUSRY Chester Daresbury WA4 5LR Chester Road,Road, Daresbury WA4 5LR Phone: 740510 Phone: 0192501925 740510 www.dentalacademy.co.uk www.dentalacademy.co.uk
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The Art of Proposing Alright gentlemen (and ladies, for why shouldn’t a lady propose?): you’ve found ‘The One’, and now it’s time to pop the question. We help you plan the most important question you’ll ever ask, down to the smallest detail
S
o, the time has finally come – you’re in love. You’ve found someone you want to wake up next to every day for the rest of your life. You like it, and have decided that it’s high time you put a ring on it. And now, only one thing stands between you and happily ever after: a successful proposal. If you’re feeling daunted, you aren’t alone – this is probably the biggest decision of your life, one that affects almost every significant one you’ll make after it, and it needs to be done right. Of course, half the battle is over – you have already wrestled with yourself over whether you’re really ready; whether you can stand a lifetime of in-laws ‘just popping round’; of getting a ‘couple’s gift’ from most of your friends for Christmas; of making compromises and occasionally having to admit you’re on the wrong side of an argument. You love this person, and you want to tackle everything the future plans to throw at you by their side. But to get all the way to the happily-ever-after finish line, there’s still that proposal and – as a wise man once said – if you fail to plan, you plan to fail. Thankfully, all you need to ace that part of the challenge is our fabulous foolproof proposal checklist. Read on, plan wisely, and happy proposing.
Know the answer will be yes This might sound like a contradiction – isn’t a question usually asked because you don’t know the answer yet? Well, yes; but when it comes to taking as much of the pressure and anxiety out of the moment you propose, it’s worth being as sure as you can possibly be that the answer will be a positive one.
So how do you do that? It involves a little subtle detective work on your part. By this point in your relationship, it’s likely that the subject of marriage has come up once or twice. Think carefully. When your partner discusses it, do they use tentative language (‘if we get married, I…’) or definite language (‘when we get married, I…’)? Do they even like the idea of marriage? If you’re not sure, try very subtly working it into the conversation – but make sure you do this several months before the actual proposal, just in case it raises suspicions.
Should you ask her parents’ permission? If you’re a man, this question can be a tricky one, but should be relatively easily answered once you’ve thought carefully about your partner’s views. Are they stubbornly independent and modern, or are they traditional? Are their parents? Do you have a good relationship with your potential in-laws? If you’re still not sure, try chatting to them about it, gently telling them that you’re planning to propose. This will sound like a request for permission if they want it to, but won’t if they don’t. Either way, you’re set.
Don’t tell friends and family I cannot stress this enough. You are nervous and excited and all you want is the support and reassurance of your loved ones – but don’t do it. However trustworthy they are, the more people you tell, the higher the risk of it somehow getting back to the proposee and spoiling the surprise. Think about it – if one of your closest friends told you something so gossip-worthy, would you be able to resist telling anybody?
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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Style
Make it personal This should go without saying, but it’s amazing how many people get so carried away with giving their proposal the wow-factor that it ends up feeling more extravagant than intimate. The proposal should reflect your relationship, who you are as people, and the fact that you know your partner well, so try to work in as many small, personally tailored little touches as you can. Of course, that doesn’t mean you can’t also create something spectacular (and, in fact, there is a thriving market for ‘proposal planners’ at the moment) – but it’s important not to lose sight of why you’re doing it amidst all the fireworks or leaping dolphins.
Know your limits You know your own mind – if you know the pressure of planning something complex and extravagant, where lots of things could go wrong, will ultimately make you a basket case, then don’t do it. You will be nervous enough as it is
(justifiably so), and upping the risk of getting stage fright, dropping the ring, or having a complete meltdown and backing out is simply not worth it. You know your partner would agree.
Bring a ring And finally, a simple one for the gents: bring a ring. Even if you know your partner has exacting taste and will want to choose the real article together post-proposal – bring an inexpensive stand in which looks nice enough that she can immediately take some photos and send them to all her girlfriends and mum. Even the least materialistic ladies out there who were given the most perfect of ring-less proposals often complain that it’s the one thing they’d change. While this failing alone is unlikely to result in a ‘no’ (and if it does, she might not be the one for you), it could be the one thing standing between you and a perfect performance. Don’t let it.
as people, and the fact that you know your partner well 87
words: Iain Warde
a new level
A
ston Martin has turned up the heat on its ultimate Super GT to create the new Vanquish S. Sharper styling, greater potency and increased athleticism define this latest evolution of an illustrious model line; one that originated from Aston Martin’s legendary Works in Newport Pagnell and has proudly served as standard bearer for the marque’s sporting and stylistic values since 2001. Central to this is the naturally-aspirated 6.0 litre V12 engine, which now produces up to 600BHP and enjoys sensational throttle response, thanks to a freer-breathing intake system. These larger-volume inlet manifolds 88
allow a greater volume of air to flow into the engine at high revs, creating a relentless power delivery and a stronger feel all the way to the redline. Likewise, the suspension, damper internals, spring rates and anti-roll bar bushes have also been re-tuned to give the Vanquish S a keener edge in the more sporting suspension modes, without compromising its ability to deliver supple ride quality on demand. Visually the Vanquish S can be readily distinguished by a new aerodynamic package. Fashioned from exposed carbon fibre, this revised front splitter and rear diffuser combine to deliver a meaningful
reduction in frontal lift, with a minimal penalty in additional drag. Combined with visually striking new quad exhaust outlets the Vanquish S has more aggressive appearance, entirely fitting for Aston Martin’s most overtly sporting GT production model. Available in both Coupe and Volante and recommended retail price starts from £199,950 in the UK.
Did
you know?
It is a criminal offence to drive around in a dirty car in Russia.
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Motoring
thanks for the memories As Jenson Button decides to take a break from racing, we look back at some of the most memorable moments from his impressive sixteen-year career behind the wheel
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ou would have to have been living under a rock to not know who Jenson Alexander Lyons Button MBE is. A stable in the F1 Calendar since 1999, his last hoorah was at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix with McLarenHonda where he is set to take a back seat in the sport. Here are some of his highlights: When he first entered the sport back in 2000 with Williams, much was expected of the then 20-year-old. Despite qualifying only 21st for his first appearance after a series of car problems and bad luck, he drove a composed first race. What many describe as his breakthrough year came in 2004, while at BAR. Although that season is largely forgettable, as Schumacher and Ferrari dominated, Button provided a fresh sense of optimism by scoring nine podium finishes and coming third in the championship. Somehow it got even worse the following year. The latest Honda proved well off the pace again, and this time Barrichello had the beating of him. All year long the team’s focus had been on readying itself for the 2009 season – but at the beginning of December Honda announced it was quitting the sport, and Button was left wondering if he’d ever get back into a F1 car. Up steps technical director Ross Brawn who bought the team, renamed it Brawn GP and inherited the cars. He bought it hoping that this his gamble would pay off. It did: spectacularly. The car happened to be much quicker than anything else and Button dominated the opening races, taking six victories out of seven. The
Englishman relished the opportunity to drive a championship-contending car, and his winning became relentless. However, Red Bull and McLaren then started to win, and Button’s championship hopes were looking doubtful, but a late surge of podiums in the final few races saw him win the title in Brazil, in the penultimate race of the season. Mercedes acquired Brawn in 2010, and Button left to partner Hamilton at McLaren. Despite being a world champion, Button was not expected to compete with his more illustrious teammate, but two wins from the opening four races showed he meant business. In 2011, Button had, arguably, his best ever season in F1. Winning the title may have been out of the question, as Vettel dominated, but Button won four races. The MP4-26 may not have been a championship contender, but Button ended the year runner-up to Vettel and comfortably ahead of Hamilton. The 36-year-old has certainly been pulled in by F1 and only in the last
month has he decided it is time for a break from the sport he has known all his life. “300 means I’ve been around for a hell of a long time. When I started in 2000 I remember speaking to my dad and I said I would be done by the time I’m 30 – here I am at 36”. A true British champion, gentleman and one of my heroes of the sport, thank you for the memories, Jenson.
THE STATS Races: 307 Podiums: 50 Points: 1,235 Laps: 16,175
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A French Affair Monte Carlo provides an appropriately upmarket backdrop for Jeremy Taylor to explore the techie side of Maserati’s newest triumph
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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Motoring
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string quartet is performing on the lawns of Hostellerie de Levernois – a Michelin-starred restaurant in a remote corner of Burgundy. Diners are enjoying an aperitif, their music disturbed only by the clink of champagne flutes and occasional birdsong. It’s an idyllic scene that is about to be shattered by an automotive soundtrack. Levante is Maserati’s first ever SUV, a ravishingly beautiful machine designed to compete with performancebased, all-wheel drives like the Range Rover Sport, BMW X5 and Porsche Cayenne. And like most upmarket sports cars these days, the Maserati can play a decent tune itself – thanks to an acoustic exhaust system, operated via a ‘sport’ button on the centre console. The V8 petrol engine emits a low, guttural sound to eclipse a double bass. Only the lobster tail on the menu looks more appetising than the Levante though, as we roll up a gravel drive at walking pace. It’s been a long, 500-mile sprint from Goodwood Festival of Speed, where the Maserati was earlier unveiled to the British public for the first time.
Not surprisingly, diners aren’t so impressed by the Levante burble. It is post-Brexit and things could get ‘tricky’, given our impending departure from Europe. Fortunately, the Maserati is running on Italian number plates, so they haven’t a clue that the British have just arrived. At least they can’t accuse Levante of suddenly gatecrashing the party. Maserati first unveiled the Kubang crossover concept back in 2003, when the thought of a luxury SUV was about as likely as Leicester City winning the football league. Kubang morphed into Levante and now Maserati expects global sales to soar over the next 12 months. Based on the same floorplan as the company’s best-selling Ghibli saloon, the Levante is pure Maserati, through and through. The sublime body shape rests on air springs, which allow the car to sit squat and aerodynamic at high speed, then rise up to traverse any bumpy stuff. If there is a downside – and I struggled to find one – the Levante is only be available in Britain equipped with a 276 bhp V6 diesel. I’m assured it performs admirably but the 430 bhp Ferrari-
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Motoring | The CHESHIRE Magazine
built, twin turbo V6 in this car is a bit special. It simply sounds fantastic. There are whispers that this petrol model may come to the UK and Maserati says a plug-in hybrid will arrive in just two years’ time. And as most buyers choose diesel, the lack of a petrol option here is unlikely to dent sales. Travelling at high speed on French motorways, we’re catching plenty of admiring glances. Unlike some SUVs, the body shape benefits from Italian flair. An enormous Maserati grille dominates the front end, with slim headlights creating crease lines that flow back to the rear of the car. Levante has ten times more presence than the faster Porsche Cayenne – it’s just more elegant. Find a twisty French back road and Levante really comes to life. The steering is wellbalanced and somehow this big Maserati manages to disguise its two-ton weight rather well. It’s exciting to drive, encourages the driver to press on and doesn’t baulk at the first sight of a corner. I really had to push hard before it started to lose grip and the ESP safety system kicked in. Then it was a case of slipping down the eightspeed automatic gearbox, picking up the revs and using the paddleshift gear-changers to make the car fly. Inside, the interior is rather cool, too. Gone are the days when Maserati produced some of the maddest dashboard designs on the planet. This one is made from suitably upmarket materials, with every button where it should be. You can even specify the popular Zegna silk seat package for extra kudos. It’s equipped with heated and vented seats, six-way adjustable for the driver, while the optional Comfort Seat has 12-way adjustment. A Sport Pack beefs up body support for more enthusiastic driving. Our pre-production car did have a few gremlins in the infotainment system. The 8.4-inch screen locked up the satellite navigation and then refused access to Bluetooth. However, Maserati has dramatically improved on quality and reliability in recent
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years. By the time we reach Monte Carlo, I would have happily driven on to Italy. This is probably the most important car in Maserati’s 102-year history because it targets a mid-range part of the market that is expanding at a dramatic pace. There are plenty of rivals in the sector and more to come – Levante has to be a winner. If you like the look of the Ghibli – and who doesn’t – then Levante offers more space, extra practicality no compromise. And let’s face it; wouldn’t life be more fun if you knew there was a Maserati parked on your driveway? (maserati.com)
ith just a ry and menities away, reliable dilly train chester s.
ms gh the people. venue. A for settle
AC HOTEL MANCHESTER SALFORD QUAYS 17-19 Trafford Road, Salford Quays Manchester M5 3AW T. 0161 876 5305 www.ac-hotels.com ACHotelManchester @ACHotelManc
AC Hotel Manchester Salford Quays 17 – 19 Trafford Road, Manchester, Lancashire M5 3AW
T: 0161 876 5305
AC HOTEL MANCHESTER SALFORD QUAYS AC Hotel occupies a coveted location minutes by tram or car from Manchester city centre, in the fashionable Salford Quays area, home to MediaCityUK and minutes walk from two iconic sporting venues - Old Trafford and Lancashire County Cricket Ground – Emirates Old Trafford. • • • • • •
Intimate facilities provide an ideal base for small to medium sized meetings catering up to 120 guests. All the latest AV technology is available with Clickshare technology, large LED screens and complimentary high speed WiFi throughout the hotel. Dedicated on site coordinators will ensure all your needs are attended to throughout your event. The relaxing environment of AC Library provides a unique space to inspire creativity. Our 142 bedrooms combine modern design with sleek furnishings to create an atmosphere of calm, the perfect base for your time in our city. Complimentary car park for day use located directly behind the hotel with up to 50 spaces.
AC HOTEL MANCHESTER, SALFORD QUAYS, 17-19 Trafford Road, Salford, Quays Manchester M5 3AW
www.ac-hotels.com
0161 876 5305
Travel news Tour De Force Located just one hour from Marseille, La Coquillade Provence Village is a luxury 5-star hotel and brainchild of cycling pioneer Andy Rihs, owner of BMC Switzerland Performance Bikes and benefactor of the BMC Racing Team. More resort village than hotel, the 63-room property sits on its own 100-acre estate overlooking the beautiful Luberon Valley, offering everything from state-of-the-art leisure facilities and a brand new spa, to immaculate interiors, fine dining and a dazzling array of estate-produced, award-winning wines from its Aureto Vineyard. Where do we sign up? (coquillade.fr; aureto.fr)
The Glories of Nature
© TK Kurikawa / Shutterstock.com
Where better for Park Lane’s Grosvenor House, a Marriott hotel, to draw inspiration for its refurbishment than the neighbouring Hyde Park? The hotel lobby, the Park Room and the ballroom have been given a spruce with pale oak herring-bone flooring, white marble tables and magnificent chandeliers made from glass butterflies. Nature truly knows no bounds. From £365 (marriott.co.uk)
Up, Up and Away Singapore Airlines is launching its new Airbus A350 on Singapore and Houston flights this month, the first commercial flight of the aircraft from Manchester Airport. (singaporeair.com)
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Travel
GOING FORWARDS
Short haul vs long haul
Short haul Ice, Ice Baby
It Doesn’t Get Much Zetter We are constantly on the hunt for the country’s best afternoon tea, and this month we have a new firm favourite. Next time you’re in the capital, spend a few hours ensconced in the darkly sumptuous Seymour’s Parlour of the Zetter Townhouse, Marylebone. Choose between two finger sandwich selections – Great Aunt Wilhelmina’s or Uncle Seymour’s – complemented by freshly-made scones, melt-inthe-mouth macaroons, an excellent tea selection and other assorted goodies. We also highly recommend the Silk Road Gimlet for the gin-lovers among you. £28 per person (cocktails £9.50 extra), from 12-5pm every day (thezettertownhouse.com/marylebone)
Winter sports fans will be pleased to know that Virgin Limited Edition’s usually privately-rented The Lodge in Verbier, Switzerland, is offering skiers the chance to book individual rooms in the ninebedroom chalet for one week only. The Lodge features both an indoor and outdoor Jacuzzi, an indoor pool, a spa, a steam room, two bars and your own personal chef, so it’s unlikely you’ll want to be venturing outdoors, anyway. (virginlimitededition.com)
Culture Club Calling all design fans: Lisbon’s Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology (MAAT) has opened. To mark the occasion, boutique hotel AlmaLusa Baixa/Chiado – which is located 20 minutes away in the historic square of Praça do Município – is offering guests who book online free entry to the museum, 10 per cent off their booking and 20 per cent off meals at the hotel. Design fanatics can marvel at the impressive MAAT building designed by Amanda Levete before retreating to the hotel’s eatery to taste Portugal’s finest delicacies. We recommend the Bacalhau à Bras, a medley of scrambled egg, cod strips, onion and fries. From €145 per night, Until 15 March 2017 (almalusahotels.com)
Long haul
Bourne to be Wild After a 15-year break, luxury cruise liner Seabourn Sojourn is making a return voyage to Alaska, the US state that offers everything from crystal glaciers and icy mountains to rugged green landscapes. The ship will set for sail in June 2017 with an 11-day Ultimate Alaskan Sojourn and will offer several itineraries. Passengers will be able to enjoy historical, scientific, naturalist and wildlife lectures from the ship’s experts and plentiful wildlife sightings.(seabourn.com)
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swiss
secret
Nestled in the Prättigau Valley, and overshadowed by its attention-grabbing bigger brother Davos, Klosters spends most of its time out of the spotlight – which is exactly what has kept the rich and the royal returning for more than half a century. Richard Brown visits
© Jakob Jägli-Schmelz
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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Travel
D
avos, you’ve heard of. Huge economic forum happens there every year. You’ve seen the Kingpins of the world make their annual pilgrimage there on the television. About adjoining Klosters, perhaps you’re not so familiar. Chuck the word into Google, and you’ll discover that Klosters is frequented by a different kind of Kingpin – our very own King-in-waiting, no less. Every ski resort has its celebrity association; a couple of cantons away, Crans-Montana has Roger Moore. Klosters has The Prince of Wales. Prince Charles has been returning to Klosters with the regularity of Swiss clockwork since the ’70s. You may remember watching news reports of him and Lady Diana teaching the boys to ski. That was in Klosters. You may remember, also, Prince Charles being caught on microphone saying of the BBC’s royal correspondent, Nicholas Witchell, “I can’t bear that man. I mean, he’s so awful, he really is.” That, too, was in Klosters. The resort has even named a cable car after him.
Given Klosters’ royal patronage, when you arrive in the resort – elevation 1,200m, population 6,200 – the post office, Co-op supermarket and splattering of sports shops that comprise the village’s main strip, Bahnhofstrasse, can seem somewhat underwhelming. There are no big name hotels, no streets lined with luxury SUVs, not a single Chanel or Gucci or Hermès boutique in sight. A 90-minute drive from Zurich, Klosters is small, sleepy, and, at first encounter, not particularly pretty. Frankly, it’s hard to see what all the fuss is about. Bags out of the boot, bemused, we checked in to the regal, Romanesque Hotel Vereina. This is more like it. During a very pleasant lunch with the very pleasant Christian Erpenbeck, general manager of nearby Silvretta Parkhotel and president of Klosters Tourism, we learned that the Windsors aren’t the only famous faces to have visited the resort. In 1960, Deborah Kerr married author and screenwriter Peter Viertel in Klosters. Before then, guests at hotel Chesa Grischuna had included Greta Garbo, Gene Kelly and Rex Harrison. Visits by Paul Newman, Gregory Peck and Yul Brynner during the ’50s led to Klosters earning the moniker ‘Hollywood on the Rocks.’ Winston Churchill skied here too. What, then, keeps modern royalty returning today? Modesty, mostly. Klosters has no five-star hotels. Its fine dining options are few. You don’t come here to shop, or to party, or to be pampered. The handful of three- and four-star hotels that do exist are independent, many are family-run. Having escaped large-scale foreign investment and the revolving-door policy of fancy chain establishments, Klosters has set its own course, developed organically, and remains understated. Dominated by traditional wooden chalets and a tall stone clock tower, Klosters is still a working village; farming remains an important industry here. There’s a tangible sense of community; friendly faces stop to say hello. You get the impression that what happens in Klosters, stays in Klosters.
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Sunniberg Bridge
Klosters
RE S ORT IN FIGURE S Highest point: 2,844m Resort Altitude : 1,200m Off Piste : 307km Longest Run :12km Ski Lifts: 56 Chairlifts: 10 Cable-cars: 15 Total Runs: 85 Beginner : 21 Intermediate : 42 Advanced : 22
© foto-Schmelz.ch
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The Hotels
The Skiing
Most of Kloster’s hotels are located in the village centre, within walking distance of the Gotschna-Parsenn cable car. The most famous, with a guestbook signed by Hepburn and Churchill, is the charming Chesa Grischuna. It opened in 1938 and today, still manages to transport you to a time not long after. Hotel Vereina is in the process of turning itself into private apartments, but both Hotel Alpina and Silvretta Parkhotel are solid, family-friendly options. Hotel Piz Buin is perhaps the closest Klosters gets to having a five-star hotel. Refurbished last year, it is the chicest hotel in town, able to offer an attractive swimming pool, a spa with saunas, a steam bath and a solarium, and a Technogym-equipped fitness room. The wealthy and the well-known, we are told, tend to stay in the traditional chalets that litter the hills around the town centre. The majority of these properties are privately owned and, this being Klosters and discretion being king, you won’t read about them in magazines or fall upon them on the internet. Groups looking to rent a chalet should email Clair Southwell (clair@clairsouthwell.com), a former assistant to Prince Charles, founder of Klosters Concierge, and an absolute authority on life in the village. Clair even brews her own local craft gin. Try some if you get the chance. (chesagrischuna.ch; alpina-klosters.ch; silvretta.ch; pizbuin-klosters.ch; klostersconcierge.com)
The six mountains and 320km of pistes that surround Klosters and Davos provide for some of the highest skiing in Switzerland, meaning that good snow cover is usually a given. All abilities are catered for. Young families and beginner skiers should take the bus from Klosters Platz to Klosters Dorf (two kms away) and access the Madrisa gondola, where you’ll find some superb nursery slopes and a children’s park. More experienced skiers should take the Gotschnabahn to the Davos ski arena. Jakobshorn is the preferred choice for snowboarders. Head to Parsenn for long red and black runs. Intermediate skiers should also be able to access Austria.
The Non-skiers Klosters provides for beautiful walks in nearly every direction. If the sun is out, a south-easterly stroll along the Diethelmpromenade, which runs above the Landquart River, will reward you with fantastic views of the sprawling valley below. If you’re partial to an impressive bridge, the nearby Salginatobelbrücke spans 90 metres above the Salgina brook; it is Switzerland’s only engineering world monument. Elsewhere, there are a variety of toboggan runs, snow-shoe trekking tours and horse-drawn sled excursions. Head to Davos for ice skating and a public swimming pool.
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Travel
The Wynegg Hotel and Restaurant
top picks #1 Commander helmet in satin black, £105, Protec, (surfdome.com)
#2 Feenom Nils snow goggles, £131, VonZipper, (vonzipper.com)
Après Ski and Eating Out Klosters doesn’t do table-top dancing to trashy Euro-pop, unsurprisingly. What it does do, is hot chocolate under fur blankets around open fires in the sort of low-key, wooden-beamed establishments you imagine when you romanticise ski resorts. If you’re looking for something a little more modern, the trendy Bear’s Bar, part of the chic Hotel Piz Buin, opened last year and provides easily the most contemporary place to sink a few Grappas. For fine dining, there’s the wood-panelled, Michelinstar Walserstube in the Walserhof hotel. The horse-drawn carriages that clang around Klosters are just one of the things that convince you that little has changed in the village since the visits of Newman and Peck. Kitsch in other ski resorts, the carriages are a natural fit in Klosters, where everything feels authentic rather than put on. The highlight of our visit was taking a carriage to Alp Garfiun, a modest mountain shack in Alpine wilderness that specialises in cheese fondue. The onehour ride from Klosters Platz repays you with scenery that Walt Disney would struggle to dream up. The family-run restaurant is so remote that it relies on horse-drawn carts to bring customers through vast fields of deep snow. Ensure that you inform the restaurant that you’re coming, so that they know who and how many to cater for. (baer-s.ch; walserhof.ch; alpgarfiun.ch)
#3 Horizone jacket, £459.99, Goldwin, (ellis-brigham.com)
#4 Hammer trousers, £122.50, Billabong, (billabong.com)
#5 Ghost FS 90 ski boots, £300, Salomon, (twoseasons.co.uk)
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A Warm Hellenic
welcome A stalwart of villa holidays in summer, Louisa Castle visits mainland Greece to see what today’s resorts can offer
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ith only a short-haul flight time and more routes coming this summer, Greece and its islands are a popular destination for couples and families looking for a beach break. Warning the marketing team that we weren't really ‘resort people’, they thrived on the challenge, inviting us to two resorts in Halkidiki, with the aim of changing our minds. With an early flight time to Thessaloniki and private transfer waiting, we were sitting in the
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reception of Porto Sani in time for lunch. Part of the Sani Resort, which covers 1,000 acres on the peninsula of Kassandra, Porto Sani is just one of four (soon to be five) five-star hotels on the family-owned ecological reserve. Currently, there's Sani Beach, Sani Asterias, Sani Club and Porto Sani, with Sani Dunes, an adult-only hotel, coming next year – each a different take on the needs of the traveller, but all accessible to anyone staying at the resort. Porto Sani, as the name suggests, is positioned behind a luxurious purpose-built marina, and has been designed as a village of
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two-storey buildings, its focal point being the lagoon pools and restaurants. As we dined on our first Greek salad of the holiday, it was clear to see many of the guests were regulars; each greeted with natural enthusiasm by the staff. Always a good sign. We were led to our junior suite through olive trees and pathways as our meal plan and map of the resort were explained to us. Light and airy, with fresh flowers in the sitting area, Bose sound system and large balcony, we would be happy to call this home for the next few nights. So, we set about exploring, heading into the
marina. Each hotel has a restaurant, or two, which all guests are welcome to dine in, but the marina offers a new take on that: Sani has created a village around the yachts and fishing boats full of restaurants and boutiques, giving the feeling of heading into the local town when you're still on the resort and can use your half-board allocation or simply put it on your room. Clever, and very well done. Our stay wasn't long enough to allow us to sample all the restaurants and genres, but we tried our best. We would recommend Psaroyannos, traditional Greek, as the team was
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previous page: sani marina this page: porto sani three bedroom family suite balcony opposite: ikos olivia deluxe beach and junior suite
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delightful and shared helpful tips about recreating the Moussaka at home. Katsu, the Japanese restaurant, was perfect for watching the sunset with sushi in hand. And the food and team at Byblos are well worth a visit. Which brings me back to Porto Sani. We visited during half-term and do not have children. At first, I thought this was a schoolgirl error, but even though there were lots of families there enjoying themselves, it didn't feel overrun. It's very well done. There's an adults-only pool which, while only a few hundred yards from the lagoon, provided peace and tranquillity, along with easy access to the spa. And breakfast could be had Ă la carte in Byblos if the hustle of breakfast at Artemis is not for you. Having said that, they had everything covered for the kids, from scooter and bike hire (for big kids, too) and countless activities, to sailing, dancing and clubs operated by UK childcare specialists Worldwide Kids Company. And there's plenty for the adults too, from a
leisurely walk through the Sani Wetlands to paddle-boat yoga or private boat tours. And outside excursions, too, including an excellent wine tour – the wine selection was amazing and trying the great collection of local Greek wines is a must. At the end of our stay, I was thinking I could become a resort kinda girl after all, my childhood resort memories a thing of the past. We're thinking of returning with family or friends with kids, as there really is something for everyone.
Ikos Olivia The next stop on our Grecian resort adventure was to Ikos Olivia, half an hour away by private transfer. The marketing literature promised it had re-invented and re-elevated the all-inclusive holiday. Not a wrist-band in sight. Indeed the only option here is all-inclusive, great for planning and not having to check your holiday money fund every day. And it really means all-inclusive. The only extras we could find were for spa treatments, the crĂŞche and the motorised watersports. All food, drink and other activities were included. Hopping on the golf cart with our luggage to be shown to our room, the many acres were perfectly manicured, with ancient olive trees at every turn and stunning views of the Gulf of Toroneos. Blended into the scenery yet modern, our room was one of the 149 bungalow suites, which included its own private pool. Spacious and luxurious, yet practical, too. Of course, the first thing we did was plunge into the pool before setting off to explore. We were in the Deluxe Collection area, which meant we got some added extra touches, including champagne on arrival, exclusive cocktails, massages and a romantic dinner on the beach, as well as our own pool and bar area. The hotel has a lengthy private beach which follows the line of the bay, with adults-only areas and activity spaces, overlooked by several restaurants and bars. Almyra is a great little bar from which to watch the sun go down with a cocktail, and you must try Fusco, the Italian
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restaurant. Modern in design, yet with traditional Italian cooking, there was an amazing buzz about the place. There are more than 300 wines to choose from, too. We left ourselves in the capable hands of our waitress and always went Greek. As one of the oldest wine-producing regions in the world, we shouldn't have been surprised. I will be looking for it when we return. Our other favourite was the Asian restaurant, Anya, beautifully decorated and with a menu designed by Katsuhiko Hanamure, who collaborated with Nobuyuki Matsushisa on Nobu. A selection of the most desirable flavours of Asia, from tempura to pad Thai. The all-inclusive package also offers the option of going out of the resort to a local restaurant, all arranged by the team at Ikos Olivia. We didn't try this but did hear from fellow guests that it was a great added extra. Our stay was one of relaxation, but there was plenty to do, should we have suddenly become less sloth-like, and loads for the kids to do, too.
We were liking this take on all-inclusive. Subtle yet chic, and very simple – no having to worry about what was or wasn't included. Hats off to both resorts. We went with open minds but with a few niggling pre-judged ideas from resorts in the 80s. We returned with new experiences under our belts and a wider scope for next year's holiday plans.
NEED TO KNOW Jet 2 is launching a new flight route from Manchester to Thessaloniki in May 2017. Jet 2 Holidays offers 7 nights at Porto Sani from £1,149 per person based on two sharing, staying in Marina view Junior Suite on a half-board basis, with return flights from Manchester. Includes 22kg baggage and return transfers. Jet 2 Holidays offers 7 nights at Ikos Olivia from £1,049 per person based on two sharing, staying in a Superior Double room on an all-inclusive basis, with return flights from Manchester. Includes 22kg baggage and return transfers. (jet2holidays.com) 103
Travel | The CHESHIRE Magazine
Weekend away …Watermark, Cotswolds WORDS: MELISSA PORTER
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atermark is a private paradise of lakeside living nestled within the Cotswolds: an elegant enclave of 66 private wooden-framed residences designed around five carp-filled lakes, two golf courses, a hotel and the Four Pillars world-reputed spa. The aim is to provide visitors and residents with a feeling of relaxation and wellbeing as soon as they pull up. It’s accessible by car from Cheshire in under two and a half hours or by air into Bristol airport, door-to-door in the same time. Plus, Cotswolds airport is only half an hour away, and welcomes private jets. I arrive at night from a hectic day of filming in London (a one-and-a-half-hour drive) and marvel at the magical, calming energy of the area, bejewelled by the twinkling lodge lights reflected via the ethereal stillness of the lakes. Watermark created this luxurious paradise 20 years ago and, with a team of professional ecologists, they serve to provide a natural environment for birds, wildlife and a whole range of different plants. It’s mesmerising to wake up to watch a heron skimming and stirring the still surface of the lake, before delicately dipping inside its depths to recover a morning morsel of fish. Carp fishing is one of the many leisure activities available. Other popular watersports
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available from the end of your lodge’s private jetty are kayaking, windsurfing, water skiing and paddle boarding. For anyone less enamored by water, I spotted some glorious cycle routes and chocolate-box-inspired walking trails. The area is favoured by two types of people: the investor who is either seeking a healthy return on a second property or fabulous bolt hole, and the holiday visitor looking for a centrally-located, luxurious, child-friendly outdoors environment. The former demographic is made-up of bankers, CEOs and captains of industry, reassured by the long lease lengths of 999 years, no stamp duty on new builds and returns on their investment of between 6-7 per cent. With these homes being so desirable to holiday renters, occupancy levels run high, at over 60 per cent through the year. The luxuriously appointed kitchens are sourced from Porcelanosa and state-of-the-art bathroom suites from Villeroy & Boch. Resales are available on all five lakes and are priced from £200,000 upwards. For rentals, the high seasons are in school holidays and at Christmas time. A three-bed lodge on Spring Lake currently rents for £1,000 per week and sleeps six. A lodge on Summer Lake, that sleeps eight, is rented between £1,500-£2,500 per week. (watermarkcotswolds.com)
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Sister Act Sisterhood is a bond that lasts a lifetime and the latest clothing range designed by the Crown Princess of Greece Marie-Chantal evokes the beautiful connection that siblings share. The collection features subtle hues and liberty prints that recall memories of the Princess’s own childhood and includes a selection of dresses, shirts, skirts and coats. From £45 (mariechantal.com)
Kids’ news Hold Tight Dressing up in quirky attire is part of the fun of being a child, and creative accessories brand Braveling has merged style with comfort to allow for carefree play with its tights range, Little Titans. Featuring four new patterns (bear hug, robo-tot, emberglow stripe and shapes), each design has been created for both boys and girls and, with soft toe linings and non-slip soles, they’re ideal for running around. From £15.99 (braveling.co.uk)
loves
Jammy Dodger Following a successful launch on luxury fashion website YOOX back in March 2015, Margherita Kids – the eponymous childrenswear collection by Margherita Maccapani Missoni Amos – returns to the website this month with an exclusive pyjama collection. Designed for both mothers and children aged up to 12 years, the ‘mummy-and-me’ range is available in three stylish designs and a selection of prints and fabrics. From £102 (yoox.com) 106
The CHESHIRE Magazine | Family
MR HENDRIX leashed
Mice to See You
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From Steamboat Willie to Mickey’s Christmas Carol, Walt Disney’s famed character has seen many a transformation since its creation during the late 1920s. Now, thanks to Steiff, the iconic mouse has been reinterpreted back into his original form. Designed in Germany at the headquarters in which the original character was created, the toy is handcrafted using felt and fabric. (steiff.com)
Party Time Creative director Cordelia de Castellane embodies Christian Dior’s inner party animal with the Baby Dior A/W16 collection. Paying homage to the founder’s love of dancing and dressing up, the range is characterised by an assortment of shapes and fun combinations, mixing different textures with vibrant pops of orange, lime green and red. Metallic fabric and velour pieces are also available in sparkling tones of powder pink and sky blue. From £240 (dior.com)
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’ve got the inside scoop on all the hidden delights Cheshire has to offer little ones this February – my paws are on the button, so to speak. Oozing with thrills, spills and shakes of sprinkles, The Ice Cream Farm in Tattenhall, Chester is my little brother Aston’s favourite place on earth right now, with so many different places to explore, no matter what the British weather throws at us. First, pay a visit to the ice cream parlour – the shining beacon at the epicentre of this pawtastic place, with its many different adventures to choose from, including The Honeycomb Canyon, a hive of activity, a world full of sand pits, playhouses, water pools, mills and channels suitable for children of all ages and abilities. Or why not tee off at the truly scrumptious Strawberry Falls adventure golf course? This rollercoaster of fun for all the family, including everything from candy canes to a giant sandcastle, is a devilishly good place to get your imagination in full swing – it even has a snow machine just in case we don’t get a glimpse of the genuine article. Next, forget pit stops and get yourself in pole position at Silvercone. Zoom around the track, past bumpers, bends and flags to the finishing line – a truly hair-raising experience! We all love a fun factory and this one delivers just that, but it is the melting ice cream slide that my owner Anji cannot get Aston away from – wait until he discovers the crazing firing ball pit, with bubble tubes, a giant piano and sensory play. Oh my woof. But by far Aston’s favourite is The Fudge Farm, a petting zoo filled with furry, feathery and four-legged friends living a life of luxury in their plush ranch-style farm building. You can learn what it takes to look after the farm animals and pets, discovering where they live, what they like to eat and what cheeky adventures they get up to in the daytime. I wouldn’t mind an overnight stay there myself: I may just check myself in for a night of pampering. I haven’t even scratched the surface of all the activities available for all members of the family from the youngest to the oldest, but I do know it is a world bursting with flavour and crammed full of adventures of every kind. Until next time, love and licks
Mr Hendrix x (facebook.com/mrhendrixandfriends; theicecreamfarm.co.uk)
Photography: melanie rodriquez
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Achieving Success Together One Year GCSES Two Year A-Levels One Year Intensive Retake A-Levels A stimulating environment, inspirational teaching, very small class sizes and a strong tutor system enable our students to achieve academic success and fulďŹ l their potential.
Visit www.abbeymanchester.co.uk or call 0161 817 2700 Abbey College Manchester, 5-7 Cheapside, King Street, Manchester M2 4WG
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Green Angels
The classroom Sign of the Times Students at Abbey College Manchester have taken on the very rewarding task of learning sign language as part of an initiative to improve the lives of people who are deaf and hard of hearing. The enrichment programme is being run by DEAF (Deaf Education Advocacy Fellowship) for nine weeks, with students learning basic sign language and finger spelling, including signs based on greetings, introductions, family, food and home. A-Level student Alisha Kumar, 19, has enrolled on the course “to learn this vital life skill. It will really help give us an insight into the struggles of many people and help us to understand it.” (abbeymanchester.co.uk)
Home Grown Drama It was a full house for The Queen’s School’s latest performances of The Raft, which was judged for the National Student Drama Festival recently. With hardly a dry eye in the house and a clearly impressed festival judge, the powerful drama certainly did not disappoint. The judge praised the way the girls worked as an ensemble on such challenging subject matter, and acknowledged the bravery needed to devise, produce and perform this completely new piece of theatre. The Raft is a home-grown drama based on the plight of refugees and migrants. It was developed by senior school pupils and their teachers, Mrs Jo Band and Mrs Katharine Larder, as a piece of collaborative theatre using interviews and photographs. The performances raised money for local charities supporting refugees and migrants, and the girls are now waiting to hear whether the show has made it through to the finals of the NSDF in April. (thequeensschool.co.uk)
A group of eight trainees has successfully completed a dedicated environmental education programme called Green Angels, run by national land management charity the Land Trust at the Countess of Chester Country Park. The group – Ian Roberts, Amy Tatton, Margot Murphy, Karen Mayers, David North, Morag Scargill, Jodie Egerton-Parry and Sue Loughran – covered environmental education initiatives such as forest and eco schools, lesson planning, health and safety and risk assessments, and education activities, giving them hands-on experience to back up their learning. The group worked with children from Dee Point Primary School and Hopscotch Nursery, hosting all sorts of activities for youngsters at Countess of Chester Country Park, including ponddipping, scavenger hunting and creating artworks from nature. Over 84 people have now completed the Land Trust’s Green Angels courses, which launched in 2013, thanks to The Big Lottery Reaching Communities Fund, and are continuing with funding from the charity and partners. The project was created to engage with the community and create new learning opportunities covering countryside management, parks maintenance, business skills, environmental education and horticulture. (thelandtrust.org.uk)
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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Family
A Young Ambassador In the second of our regular column supporting Variety, the children’s charity we speak to Lucas Christer, recently appointed Young Ambassador for the charity
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ged 12, Lucas has benefited from the work of Variety, the children's charity and is now taking up the mantel of ambassador. Proud dad, Jason, tells us a little bit more. “We first were in touch with Variety when we were getting the house adapted for Lucas. He has Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a musclewasting condition. We approached the charity as we were looking to raise some money to buy a specialist sink. It may not sound a big deal but it is height adjustable with sensor taps and makes a massive difference to Lucas' independence. “So we got in touch and a representative came out to visit. They took real care and time and were brilliant with Lucas. We didn't feel like we were jumping through hoops or being interrogated. It was all about Lucas. “We received the funding and the sink is still a vital part of our daily routine. While we were talking, though, we spoke about other things the charity may be able to support us with as Lucas grows up and his needs change. “Lucas' condition was diagnosed when he was six, after we noticed he was struggling to keep up with his younger brother. He loved sport but struggled with the physical side. He supports Manchester United, which is my fault and my dad's! When his brother started playing football for a team, Lucas was at his lowest. He didn't understand why he couldn't do what the others could do. “He was walking with no assistance at the time but I started to look into the options, trawling the internet. I found a power-chair football
team, St George's Knights, and emailed the MD, Warren at 11:45pm, not expecting a reply for the next day or so. Anyway, we were emailing for the next 45minutes and set off to training the next day in Burton-on-Trent (an hour away). “We went to just see what we thought but Lucas was itching to get training. As soon as he sat in the chair, the smile on his face was one we hadn't seen for such a long time. The difference it made to his independence and selfconfidence is indescribable. “I am always amazed at the power of sport but this was something I had never experienced. So much so, I'm now the head coach and we've a second training ground in Newcastle-underLyme. Enough about me: when Lucas did need a wheelchair, it wasn't as big a transition either, as he was already used to it and it has positive associations. Today, he has his own specialist football power chair from America, thanks to Variety, the children's charity and his goal is to play for England.” (variety.org.uk)
Variety Cheshire Committee We are searching for motivated readers and friends who may be able to spare some time to support Variety, the children's charity across Cheshire. If you are interested in becoming a founding member please contact Lyn Staunton of Variety on 0161 236 0500; 07850 779 466; northwest@variety.org.uk.
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Promotion | The CHESHIRE Magazine
Take Control Award-winning adviser, Tristan Hartey offers some expert advice on planning for the future, pensions and retiring
The advantages of saving into a pension Once you’ve decided to start saving for retirement, you need to choose how to do so. Pensions have many important advantages that will make your savings grow more rapidly than might otherwise be the case. A pension is essentially a long-term savings plan with tax relief – your regular contributions are invested so that they grow throughout your career and then provide you with an income in retirement. Generally, you can access the money in your pension pot from the age of 55.
How tax relief tops up your pension pot Once your income is over a certain level, the government takes tax from your earnings. You can see this on your payslip. If you put money into a personal pension scheme, it qualifies for tax relief. This means that as well as the money you’re putting in, some of your money that would have gone to the government as tax now goes into your pension pot instead. The government will still put tax relief into your pension pot, even if your income is too low to pay tax.
Top-ups from employers To help people save more for their retirement, employers are gradually being required to enrol their workers into a workplace pension scheme if they are not already in one. This is called ‘automatic enrolment’ and is gradually being made compulsory for all employers. If your work gives you access to a pension that your employer will pay into, then unless you really can’t afford to contribute or your priority
is dealing with unmanageable debt, staying out is like turning down the offer of a pay rise. Of course, if your employer will contribute to your pension regardless of whether you pay into it, then you should join the scheme whatever your financial circumstances.
A tax-free lump sum when you retire You can usually take up to a quarter of your pension savings as a tax-free lump sum. If you have built up your own pension pot in a defined contribution scheme (as opposed to a salary-related pension scheme) you can then use the rest of your pot as you choose from age 55 onwards. If you want to discuss you pension, get in touch to arrange a complimentary consultation with one of our advisers. Call 0808 168 5866 or email info@harteywm.co.uk
The above has been provided by Hartey Wealth Management Limited, Oswestry, SY11 2NR. Tel: 0808 168 5866. www.harteywm.co.uk. Registered in England and Wales No 8288660. Registered Office: Hilliards Court, Chester Business Park, Chester CH4 9QP. Hartey Wealth Management Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Family
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF SUE WESTWOOD-RUTTLEDGE
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f your little (or no-longer-so-little) one doesn’t like to do things by halves, the Bobble Hat Shop is sure to be an essential addition to their winter wardrobe. After all, why have one pom-pom when you can have two? The brand’s wonderful website also does an excellent range for playfully-minded adults, plus riding hat silks, fedoras and even beautiful full fur lined parka jackets – but it’s their amazing bobble hats for kids that we’re hankering after, available in an extensive range of colours and different styles, including original, rib knit, cable knit, limited edition, Union Jack, stars and stripes and cashmere. And better still, you can buy individual press stud pom poms and customise your hat however you wish! (thebobblehat.co.uk)
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homes and
interiors showcasing the
finest HOMES & PROPERTY IN CHESHIRE AND BEYOND
GOING VINTAGE An expert guide to incorporating period pieces into your interior design
Homes & interiors news
Flower Power It’s easy to forget how much a bunch of flowers can brighten up a dull space, and Willow Crossley is here to ensure that doesn’t happen. With a distinctive style that sets her apart from other florists, Crossley boasts a highprofile clientele, including Anthropologie, Jo Malone London and Mulberry, to name a few. But she’s not one for keeping secrets – her new book Flourish shares ideas on how to decorate homes for different occasions, plus tips for growing your own plants for the less green-fingered among you. The book, which introduces 37 different types of flower, is perfect for professionals, first-time enthusiasts and anyone in-between. £19.99 (kylebooks.co.uk)
Heart of Glass A component of Czech heritage, Bohemian glass has long been associated with beauty and high quality – a fact not lost on lighting and design brand Lasvit, which reintroduced the luxury material to the modern market. Offering the best of bespoke lighting sculptures and art installations, Lasvit collaborates with renowned designers and artists to produce unique glass collections. Among the latest is Polygon by Jan Plechac & Henry Wielgus, a collection designed using 3D modelling. Arriving in a selection of colours, the lampshades are matte finished, refracting light by day and revealing the full beauty of the design by night. (conranshop.co.uk)
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Finishing Touch Clothing and homeware brand Anthropologie is meeting all of our decorative needs this winter, offering a wide selection of carefully curated homeware pieces. The range spans from crockery to decorations, including finely crafted products by the brand as well as exclusive collaborations with a range of designers. Browse cushions and baubles from Quill & Fox, or illustrated crockery from Molly Hatch and Nathalie Lete. (anthropologie.com)
Homes and Interiors
TWEET of the MONTH Decor + Design @decordesignshow A new trend fusing Japanese and Scandi style is taking the interior design world by storm
#interiortip Western Electricals @WesternEleInfo #Interiortip: With the right combination wood can be not just a very luxurious material, but also a gentle feature in the overall design. # H o m e W e b w at c h : For luxury s tat e m e n t b e d s we love:
Frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk Turnpost.co.uk Barkerandstonehouse.co.uk
“For a house to be successful, the objects in it must communicate with one another, respond and balance one another.” – Andrée Putman, interior and product designer
Going Dutch Luxury bath brand Victoria + Albert has added to its traditional collection of freestanding baths with a new model: The Warndon. Manufactured in the brand’s exclusive material QUARRYCAST® (a blend of volcanic limestone and high performance resins), the bath is smooth and scratch-resistant, and also retains maximum heat. The design is inspired by the traditional Roman bath, with ribbed edges that imitate classic stonework detailing and follows the rules of symmetry to make it the perfect centrepiece for any bathroom. From £3,000 (vandabaths.com)
Something Old... From their base in Cheshire, mother-and-daughter team Carole Hobson and Rachel McGrath run online antiques business, Hobson May Collection. With 30 years’ experience working with designers and private clients in both the UK and Europe, the pair have created a unique collection which takes inspiration from the classic English country house, old school gentlemen’s clubs and the glamour of the French chateau. “These days, more people are looking to introduce antique items into their homes to bring a unique, personal element to their décor,” Rachel McGrath explained. “Antiques have history and memories steeped into every piece. Just one stand-out piece can add character to a room. We are therefore tapping into an area of strong consumer demand and will be using our experience and connections to curate an exciting online collection which creates the perfect portfolio for the 21st century home.” Whether you need help in starting a collection, adding to an existing one or simply finding a one-off purchase, get in touch with Hobson May Collection on 07768 304056 or email: sales@hobsonmaycollection.com
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Homes and Interiors
Homes & interiors news
If it seems too good to be true, it probably is 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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s an estate agent with regional and national lettings departments, we are often asked to value the rental income for a wide range of properties. As members of ARLA (Association of Residential Letting Agents) we give sound advice and realistic prices for landlords. Often, though, landlords are tempted by agents offering higher rental values, but they should be aware: higher prices do not guarantee rental income. Securing a tenant with a realistic rent ensures that your property is not languishing empty for long periods of time. Our Director of Residential Lettings, William Jordan, notes that “landlords don’t want tenants – they want rent”, and this is true; it’s better to have a good rental income than to hold out for top prices. Any letting agent worth their salt will carry out a regular review of pricing to ensure that your figures make your property attractive to your target market Engaging a letting agent who knows his or her market and the likely tenants your property will attract is key to ensuring that your rental property is tenanted for longer periods, instead of sitting empty and costing you money. Any investor landlord knows that a non-rent-producing property is a killer for their yield. Sometimes, taking a lesser rent is the savvy thing to do. By taking a risk and increasing the required rent, a landlord may find him or herself out of pocket for an extended period of time if they have difficulty accepting the true market value of their rental property. Better to earn £900 each month than nothing and have an empty property. Landlords should be aware that increases in the price of living often mean that rental prices suffer first– something has to give when renters are paying out for a myriad of expenses – and rent is often the first item on which tenants are prepared to negotiate. Your property is only worth what someone is prepared to pay and a good agent will have already worked out the optimal rental income based on the current economic climate, average household income, location and a like-forlike comparison. Take their advice, as this will ensure that your property is valued realistically and will give you the best chance of achieving a good return with a long-term tenant.
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Smell Like Home Former model Wilnelia Forsyth has traded in her high heels for pen and paper to fulfil her ambition of building a lifestyle brand – and she’s starting with candles. Inspired by exotic fragrances of the Caribbean where she grew up, the latest addition to her eponymous collection, the Celebration Candle, captures the essence of glamour with a vintage-inspired scent of rose, bergamot and jasmine fused with patchouli and sandalwood. The classic matt black jar comes with an elegant gold polished lid, perfect for use as a coaster or candle extinguisher. £55 (wilneliaforsyth.com)
French Fancy For those of you seeking winter bedroom inspiration, look no further than French luxury home-linen brand Yves Delorme. The new STELLA range defines home comfort, offering a selection of white bed linen, towels and bathroom accessories, made using sateen-cotton and embellished with glittering and geometric patterns. A sandalwood-scented candle is also available, making for a great addition to the home, or the perfect gift. From £79 (yvesdelorme.com)
north west fireplace centre fireplaces as indiviual as you are
Call us on : 01204 658 889 info@northwestfireplaces.co.uk
www.northwestfireplaces.co.uk
2 Salford Road, Over Hutton, Bolton, Lancashire BL5 1BL
jackson-stops.co.uk
Prestbury A substantial, beautifully presented 6 bedroom family house with leisure suite sitting in about 0.8 of an acre with views over the Bollin Valley.
• 4 reception rooms • study • kitchen/breakfast room • first floor kitchen • 6 bedrooms (all en suite) • leisure suite with pool & sauna • garaging • about 0.8 of an acre • EPC - C Guide Price: £2,695,000
People Property Places
Wilmslow 01625 540 340 wilmslow@jackson-stops.co.uk
Offices in London and across the country
Alderley Edge An exceptional small Estate comprising a 6 bedroom house with leisure suite, 1 bedroom cottage and office block, all nestled in outstanding grounds, with one of the most glorious south-facing views in Cheshire.
• 4 reception rooms • breakfast kitchen • wine cellar • 6 bedrooms (all en suite) • games room • leisure suite with pool • 1 bed cottage • office building • hard tennis court • garaging • approximately 0.9 of an acre • EPC - B Guide Price: £4,950,000
People Property Places
Wilmslow 01625 540 340 wilmslow@jackson-stops.co.uk
Offices in London and across the country
jackson-stops.co.uk
Mottram St Andrew An extremely impressive beautifully presented 5 bedroom country house nestled in approximately 1 acre of stunning grounds.
• 3 reception rooms • study • playroom • kitchen/breakfast room • media room • gym • wine cellar • 5 bedroom (3 en suite) • bathroom • garaging with games room above • in all about 1 acre • planning permission for leisure suite with indoor swimming pool • EPC – C Guide Price: £2,595,000
People Property Places
Wilmslow 01625 540 340 wilmslow@jackson-stops.co.uk
Offices in London and across the country
Alderley Edge A magnificent modern 7 bedroom family house with a superb leisure suite, nestled in a quiet elevated position, within walking distance of Alderley Edge.
• 4 reception rooms • study • bar • kitchen/breakfast room • 7 bedrooms (2 en suite) • 2 bathrooms • leisure suite with pool & steam room • garaging with games room above • about 0.7 of an acre • EPC - C Guide Price: £3,300,000
People Property Places
Wilmslow 01625 540 340 wilmslow@jackson-stops.co.uk
Offices in London and across the country
jackson-stops.co.uk
Over Alderley An exquisite 19th Century family house nestled within stunning gardens with stabling, paddocks and manège.
• 3 reception rooms • study • kitchen • morning room • 3 bedrooms (all en suite) • sitting room/bed 4 • cellar • garaging with potential 1 bed annexe above • stable block • manège • paddock land • about 3 acres • EPC - F Guide Price: £1,395,000
Gawsworth A beautiful farm house presented in peerless condition, complemented by two cottages, in a courtyard setting. In about 2.73 acres.
• 3 reception rooms • orangery • study • kitchen/breakfast room • wine cellar • 3 bedrooms (1 en suite) • bathroom • two 1 bedroom cottages • garaging • Dutch barn • paddock • in all approximately 2.73 acres • EPC - E Guide Price: £1,350,000
People Property Places
Wilmslow 01625 540 340 wilmslow@jackson-stops.co.uk
Offices in London and across the country
Alderley Edge An exceptional family house standing in beautiful gardens on one of the best roads in Alderley Edge.
• 4 reception rooms • breakfast kitchen • 6 bedrooms (1 en suite) • 2 bathrooms • garaging • in all about 1 acre • EPC - D Guide Price: £2,500,000
Mottram St Andrew A contemporary, cutting edge house with a breathtaking interior, nestled in exquisite landscaped gardens.
• 4 reception rooms • study • breakfast kitchen • 5 bedrooms (3 en suite) • bathroom • indoor/outdoor pool • steam room, Jacuzzi, gym & studio with en suite • garaging • approx 5.31 acres • EPC - C Guide Price: £2,250,000
People Property Places
Wilmslow 01625 540 340 wilmslow@jackson-stops.co.uk
Offices in London and across the country
jackson-stops.co.uk
Hale An impressive penthouse apartment in a sought-after location.
• private entrance hall • dining area • living room • kitchen • 3 bedrooms (2 en suite) • shower room • 2 balconies • communal parking • communal gardens • EPC - C Guide Price: £1,295,000
Hale A beautifully presented period house highly sought-after position with a delightful southerly aspect.
• 2 reception rooms • study • dining kitchen • 3 bedrooms (1 en suite) • shower room • garage • gardens • EPC - E Guide Price: £1,250,000
People Property Places
Hale 0161 928 8881 hale@jackson-stops.co.uk
Offices in London and across the country
Manchester Arguably one of the area’s finest houses - an imposing period house set in an elevated position within extensive grounds.
• 3 reception rooms • kitchen open-plan to breakfast area & orangery • leisure area with swimming pool & steam room • 5 bedrooms (all en suite) • guest/au pair annexe • approximately 2.5 acres Guide Price: £1,950,000
People Property Places
Hale 0161 928 8881 hale@jackson-stops.co.uk
Offices in London and across the country
INTERIORS INSPIRATION
Putting the World to Whites Nobody does high-thread count pillowcases or cashmere bed socks quite like The White Company. Founder Chrissie Rucker MBE shares the brand’s ethos with Lauren Romano
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I
t all started with a 12-page mail order catalogue, which became a lifestyle empire with more than 50 high street shops and concessions and an annual turnover in excess of £180m. Not bad for a business plan launched off the back of furnishing your boyfriend’s flat. Back then Chrissie Rucker MBE had no idea that her quest for good quality but affordable white cotton bedlinen and towels would pan out quite like this. “My love of the colour white began when my boyfriend [Charles Tyrwhitt founder Nick Wheeler, now her
husband] bought his first house and wasn’t interested in trying to kit it out. I often joke it was because I was trying to show him what excellent wife material I was!” Rucker laughs. “I went shopping, but because I wasn’t very confident, I decided to keep it simple. I chose to buy all white: white towels and robes, white bed linen, white china and napkins. At the time, it was quite difficult. There was either the high street, where the offerings were usually cheaply manufactured, or designer wares, which promised quality but were so expensive. I also found that the sales assistants weren’t very helpful. So I set out to bridge the gap, to supply simple yet beautiful white items for the home and offer fantastic quality combined with great service.” Over the past 22 years, Rucker’s successful company has evolved with her home life, incorporating everything from kid’s clothing to champagne coupes to meet her needs as a busy mother of four. The first collection offered a small range of essentials for the home, from bed linen and duvets to luxury towels, bathrobes, china and table linen – all in simple, classic white. Today the range has grown enormously to encompass home accessories, fragrance, bath and body, furniture, clothing and nightwear lines, as well as The Little White Company, launched after the birth of her son, Tom, now 20. She shares with us the ethos behind her brand, a peek inside her family Christmas and how she balances being both businesswoman and mother.
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INTERIORS INSPIRATION
It’s become an annual Christmas tradition to spend 24 hours in London, time permitting, with my children and god children. This year, we went ice skating, followed by a lovely good oldfashioned tea at Fortnum & Mason. Christmas Day is always busy but great fun. We start with stockings early, followed by mucking out the horses, a trip to church, far too much eating and drinking and then we all collapse in front of the TV.
Our tree is always placed in the hall and I like to keep things simple – so white fairy lights and baubles in antiqued silver, glass and white – the result is so twinkly and magical. I add a little touch of Christmas to each room in the house, not forgetting the guest rooms where it is always lovely to fill the window sills with miniature spruces and add Christmas decorations to cupboard doors. I love to decorate our mantle pieces and large windowsills with lots of greenery, fairy lights and candles in glass storm lanterns. I use lots of scented candles throughout the house, including our new Mistletoe, Mulled Wine and Sloe Gin scent.
I love our home to feel natural, warm and peaceful. The walls throughout the house are painted either a warm white or very pale grey. We have sisal or textured rugs on the floors, combined with some stone and wooden floors. I always try to find a way to bring the outside in with either lots of greenery and fresh flowers or indoor fig trees, which I
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have in the kitchen, hall and office. Soft scents from diffusers or candles also feature a lot. Somehow a home with a gentle soft scent feels instantly more welcoming and cosy.
We wanted the new London store to have more of a home feel to it with dedicated areas to really show off the different collections. A bespoke fragrance room at the front of the store allows us to show the complete home and bath-andbody collections with more of an
Homes and Interiors
apothecary feel. On the ground floor there is a lovely new living area that can now showcase more of our furniture; there is a larger clothing area with bigger changing rooms, a lovely gift and accessories area, plus a dedicated Little White Company Store. The lower ground floor boasts a linen-cupboard area to help customers discover the secrets for a perfect night’s sleep.
but you just have to stay calm, get back on, try and understand where you went wrong and have another go. We always try and make sure we spend time together as a family; this seems to be getting harder as the children grow older and become more independent. We love them to bring friends home and we try to have at least two holidays a year when we are all together.
I didn’t set out to be a businesswoman. I left school with
This year, I want to start riding again and perhaps to eat a bit less chocolate. As for the business,
six O-Levels and headed to fashion college at 16. I later became a journalist for several years, which I loved; I worked for titles such as GQ, Brides and Harpers & Queen. I also did a year in the PR department of Clarins. I learnt a huge amount from each experience, which helped arm me with some great skills that I needed when I started the business.
Ruthless diary planning is key to achieving a work-life balance, and learning not to be a total control freak is essential! The children’s dates go in first and everything has to work around that. It’s vital when you grow a business to really empower your team and I’m lucky to work with some great people who always inspire me.
we will be launching our first ever skincare range. We have partnered with DECIEM who have been really shaking up the beauty industry with their truly next-generation technologies. We’ll also be launching our first store in the States, following the successful launch of our US website in 2014.
In another life I would have loved to have been a doctor. I enjoy fixing things – if only I had got a few more exam results… (thewhitecompany.com)
We spend a lot of weekends riding. Our three girls all compete, so there are lots of very early starts and time in the horse box. I rode competitively as a child and I think it really taught me about resilience. There are always plenty of days when it doesn’t go to plan or you fall off,
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Homes and Interiors
be inspired
White Birch Twig Tree, £20, B&Q (diy.com)
Porto Heart Pot, from £6, The White Company (thewhitecompany.com)
LSA Cashmere White Matte Vase, £45, Black By Design Ltd (black-by-design.co.uk)
A TOUCH OF
HYGGE Cashmere Onesie, £279, The White Company (thewhitecompany.com)
Skandinavisk Hygge Scented Diffuser, £35, Printer + Tailor (printerandtailor.com)
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Pure and wholesome, fill your home with elements of cosy Scandi style this winter
Chrome Candlestick Pillar Stand, £POA, DecoBREEZE/DecoFLAIR (decobreeze.com)
Classic White Tea Scented Candle, £25, The French Bedroom Co (frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk)
Dipped Teak Stool, White, £120, Furnish.co.uk (furnish.co.uk)
CASE STUDY resorts world
HOW THE HOTELS DO IT
resorts world
Luxury interior designer, Kudos Dsign, give us a behind the scenes glimpse of three of their newest and most distinctive hotel projects – from underground Scandi chic to eco-friendly Caribbean comfort
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enowned for creating truly one-of-a-kind spaces – often world firsts – Finnish company Kudos Dsign specialises in custom-built furnishings and innovative fabrication techniques, allowing them to really push the limits of the achievable. If you’ve heard the name before, it’s likely in conjunction with one of their most high-profile projects to date – the incredible Burj Al Arab Terrace in Dubai, a colossal resort located on an apron jutting out into the sea, completed in spring 2016. “Kudos was born of a passion for fine design and craftsmanship,” explains Founder and architect, Pia Litokorpi. “It’s inspired by the elements of nature, with the aim of bringing conceptual ideas into reality through the combination of beauty and function, which makes each of our projects unique and special.” So, if you’re tempted to really push the envelope with your next interior design project, who better to take inspiration from than this trailblazing brand? The Kudos experts take us on
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hotel with
hotel with
a whistle-stop tour of three of their most recently completed projects to explain how functional need never mean ordinary.
Hotel With, Stockholm Located in the heart of Stockholm’s city centre, Hotel With is the world’s first purpose-built underground hotel, with all 106 en-suite bedrooms
resorts world
Homes and Interiors
sitting beneath the city’s renowned, bustling Urban Deli. Constructed within a former utilities basement, this custom-designed hotel offers a modern experience, with no exterior walls and windows, guaranteeing total darkness and silence in the soundproofed guest rooms. Working within the restraints of this unusual location, Kudos introduced design elements to both enhance and complement the underground experience. Corridors and public areas mimic a city street – complete with letter boxes and door knockers – for the illusion of outdoor space, while custom-designed carpets act as markers for hotel guests to avoid becoming disorientated while underground. The special lighting scheme simulates natural light, while allowing for total darkness during the night. High specification soundproofing provides an urban haven of silence and a powerful sound system which allows guests to enjoy music or television to any desired volume with no disruption to other guests.
Resorts World Bimini, Bahamas Resorts World Bimini is a brand new hotel on the remote Bimini Island of the Bahamas, opened in June 2016. This pristine natural location offers limited land, and requires all aspects of development to have a minimum impact on local environment and marine life. Working within environmental challenges of construction on a remote island, the guest rooms were built and outfitted using a pre-
assembly construction process not used before in the hotel industry. Kudos Dsign introduced a number of unique design elements, one of the highlights being a rooftop infinity pool with a dramatic wraparound walkaway, along with the hotel’s signature swim-up suites. Special space-saving features created bespoke by Kudos, include the lobby wine bar with a specially designed glass wall that doubles as wine storage, a two-sided reception desk which also acts as the lobby bar, and a unique lobby lighting feature with 75 individual handmade pennant lamps.
Burj Al Arab Terrace, Dubai Dubai’s iconic Burj Al Arab hotel recently unveiled ‘The Terrace’, a one-of-a-kind space which features pools, a beach, cabanas and a restaurant, and provides guests and members with a unique over-water experience. Kudos was involved in every aspect of the terrace’s design and interior architecture, including shape of the spaces, specification of surface materials, as well as custom-designed indoor and outdoor furniture, soft furnishings and interior details. (kudosdsign.com)
burj al arab terrace
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Homes and Interiors
steal their style
Industrial Chic Industrial-style interiors have been making waves in the trend department for the last few years, but it’s still a very easy look to get wrong. Take some tips from Hotel With in Stockholm, where starkly rough, industrial pieces are complemented by softer, more whimsical touches (like the china plate and vintage-style clock) to stop the overall effect being too harsh.
#1
#5 #2
#4
#3
KEY PIECES #6
#7
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#1 Jailhouse Cage Wall Light, £115, Furnish (furnish.co.uk) #2 Blaggard Side plate by Welovekaoru, £45, Rume (rume.co.uk) #3 Industrial Pine Desk, £775, Furnish.co.uk (furnish.co.uk) #4 Harlem Industrial Cage Bar Table, £465, Alexander & Pearl (alexanderandpearl.co.uk) #5 Alana Round Mirror Brass, £99, MADE.COM (made.com) #6 Large Aged Industrial Wall Clock, £125, Alexander & Pearl (alexanderandpearl.co.uk) #7 Pipework Wall Light, £199.99, The Glow Company (glow.co.uk)
Bespoke Design
info@elledesign.co.uk
|
Planning
| Furnishing Supply | Interior Architecture
+ 161 980 4440
www.elledesign.co.uk
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bybydiane dianeberry berrykitchens kitchens
A lighter A lighter andand brighter brighter home home is often is often on on thethe wish wish list list as as partpart of aofhome a home renovation. renovation. ForFor Mr Mr andand MrsMrs Bamford, Bamford, andand their their home home in in Rochdale, Rochdale, they they needed needed a practical a practical andand accessible accessible home home as well as well as something as something beautifully beautifully stylish. stylish. Both Both Tony Tony andand Dorothy Dorothy wanted wanted a high a high quality quality andand thorough thorough build build andand sought sought respected respected companies companies who who could could offer offer both. both. Dorothy Dorothy knew knew sheshe wanted wanted Diane Diane Berry Berry Kitchens Kitchens to complete to complete their their kitchen kitchen project project andand Diane Diane recommended recommended working working withwith Lancashire Lancashire based based architect architect NeilNeil Andrews Andrews of Stanton of Stanton Andrews. Andrews. Tony Tony hadhad accessibility accessibility needs needs following following an an accident accident in 2009 in 2009 andand
uses uses a wheelchair. a wheelchair. It was It was vitalvital thatthat thethe house house worked worked for for himhim as well as well as his as his family. family. They They initially initially considered considered an an orangery orangery as part as part of the of the extension extension andand wanted wanted to make to make thethe most most of the of the garden garden view view andand give give their their home home a contemporary a contemporary feel. feel. Tony Tony andand Dorothy Dorothy visited visited Diane’s Diane’s showroom showroom andand were were immediately immediately impressed impressed by by thethe company company itself itself as as wellwell as the as the quality quality products. products. They They discussed discussed their their ideas ideas andand Diane Diane came came up up withwith a different a different proposal proposal for for them them which which included included re thinking re thinking space space outside outside andand wellwell as as in, moving in, moving their their existing existing garage garage building building andand transforming transforming their their kitchen kitchen withwith a vaulted a vaulted ceiling, ceiling,
skylights andand floor to ceiling windows facing their skylights floor to ceiling windows facing their garden. It’s It’s safesafe to say thethe couple areare delighted withwith garden. to say couple delighted Diane Diane Berry Berry Kitchens Kitchens Ltd,Ltd, thethe results andand their newly designed home. results their newly designed home. 132132 Bury Bury New New Road, Road, TheThe large, open plan kitchen andand single-level smooth large, open plan kitchen single-level smooth Prestwich, Prestwich, Manchester Manchester flooring works perfectly aesthetically andand gives Tony flooring works perfectly aesthetically gives Tony complete freedom around his his home. It’s It’s in stark complete freedom around home. in stark M25 M25 0AA 0AA contrast to their oldold narrow galley kitchen. contrast to their narrow galley kitchen. TheThe renovation includes a wet room, a garage which renovation includes a wet room, a garage which links up up withwith their stunning kitchen andand family room as as links their stunning kitchen family room www.dianeberrykitchens.co.uk www.dianeberrykitchens.co.uk wellwell as aasutility room. Tony is pleasantly surprised by by a utility room. Tony is pleasantly surprised diane@dianeberrykitchens.co.uk how effective his his modern home layout is and wonders how effective modern home layout is and wonders diane@dianeberrykitchens.co.uk Tel:Tel: 0161 0161 798798 5335 5335 whywhy homes were ever divided up.up. homes were ever divided
aRT & Antiques
Going Vintage It may come as news to some that, until recently, John Lewis sold antiques. Gabriel Berner looks back at a bygone era and advises on incorporating period pieces into your home
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epartment store giant John Lewis first began mingling old and new furnishings on a dedicated floor of its Chelsea store, Peter Jones, in 1915. Over the next century, its antiques operation expanded to other flagship stores, where old furniture, mirrors, silver, jewellery and much more could be found. While the firm has moved away from antiques in the last decade (they still offer a limited range of silver and jewellery), its concept of combining old with contemporary has gathered apace in the world of interior design. Decorators are using antiques as a counter to the latest gadgets or shiniest modern furnishings that feature, and often overwhelm, the 21st century home. Often, this is done by mixing antiques of different periods and price tags to give interiors an effortless sense of having been assembled over time. Juxtaposing pieces, such as a 2,000-year old Classical bust beside a Picasso print or 19th-century ceramics platter on a minimalist Scandinavian sideboard, has transformed interiors from the one-dimensional ‘matchy-matchy’ spaces of the noughties, to places of personality and character today.
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Homes and Interiors
clockwise from left: MELODY ANTIQUES CHESHIRE OAK LOW DRESSER, CAMBRIDGE FINE ART ORAMUIR CASTLE BY WILLIAM JOSEPH BOND, MELODY ANTIQUES GEORGE III OAK HALL CHAIRS, FRESHFORDS FINE ANTIQUES REGENCY BOULLE CLOCK, T ROBERT 18 CT GOLD, RUBY & BLOODSTONE SEAL, ODYSSEY GREEK LEKANIS
But with department stores such as John Lewis seemingly uninterested in stocking antiques for the moment, where are the best places to go to achieve this look? Ask any interior designer, and they will point you in the direction of antiques fairs. Put simply, good art and antiques fairs are among the best places to get educated in interior design. Not only
is there a wealth of material for sale in the same spot and at a variety of prices, it is also a convenient way to speak to top decorative vendors and build up contacts, all within a small amount of time. In Cheshire, this comes in the form of The Antiques & Fine Art Fair at The Mere, presenting a perfect opportunity to put such interior trends into play. Many of the stands will be arranged as room sets to help inspire home furnishers and interior designers alike. Traditional and contemporary paintings, period furniture, sculpture, ancient artefacts and antiquities, antique lighting, glass and prints will all feature under The Mere roof, with prices from three to six figures. Before any buying is done, however, consider the tips and trends below, as decorating with antiques, especially in different styles, colours and patterns, can be hard to pull off. A good place to start is by considering the room’s architecture. In a Victorian house, for instance, incorporate some select period pieces alongside contemporary comforts, such as lighting, rugs or accessories. In a modern flat, choose a Persian rug, an antique mirror or chandelier to create some warmth and history. To avoid a room looking chaotic and cluttered, interior designers suggest having a focal point or statement piece such as a large mirror, coffee table, ornament or painting. The Antiques & Fine Art Fair at The Mere, supported by NFU Mutual, Knutsford, 24 to 26 February 2017. (merefair.com)
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Homes and Interiors
aRT & Antiques
Grand Tour
Explorer
Probably the most extreme champion of the Grand Tour look was the Neo-Classical architect, Sir John Soane. He filled his London home in Lincoln’s Inn, now a museum, with hundreds of classical fragments that he sandwiched next to large architectural drawings and big scale antiquities.
The modern day Kunstkammer or ‘cabinet of curiosities’ look is reserved for those with exotic tastes and scholarly style. The trend can be achieved by juxtaposing old maps, globes, books and large glass-fronted cabinets with quirky fossils, large taxidermy and other curios.
Here are a few ‘pick and mix’ trends, tipped to do well in 2017. Items from these themes can be found at The Antiques & Fine Art Fair at The Mere
Scandinavian
Folk
Art Deco
The simple, stylish look, a concept characterised by mid-century Scandinavian design, looks set to continue in 2017. The many sideboards, ceramics, lights and chairs that came out of the region during this period (generally understood to be decorative furnishings created after WWII through to the end of 1960s), occupy the very epitome of minimalism and massproduced functionality.
With its simple and characteristic naïve style, folk art appeals to the modern, shabby chic interiors of today. The antithesis of fine art, it is primarily practical and was typically produced by the poor of any indigenous culture covering many different geographical areas and periods. Weather veins, old store signs, carousel horses and fire buckets all fall under the folk art banner.
Not a new trend, but still going strong and tipped to continue into 2017 are the bold geometric motifs, curvilinear forms and sharply defined outlines that characterise the Art Deco movement. The period encompasses a vast range of interior choices for home furnishers, from the cold-painted figurines of Demétre Chiparus and the furniture of Rennie Mackintosh, to Rene Lalique glassware or 1930s vintage travel posters.
clockwise from l-r: CAMBRIDGE FINE ART A BUSY HARBOUR BY WILLIAM EDWARD WEBB, CHURCH STREET ANTIQUES GEORGE III WINE COOLER, FRESHFORDS FINE ANTIQUEs GEORGE III HEPPLEWHITE SETTEE
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Celebrating
20 years
1996-2016
Designers and makers of Bespoke Kitchens, Bedrooms, Home offices and furniture
Workshops and showroom, 6a Old Brickworks, Bakestonedale Road, Pott Shrigley, Macclesfield, Cheshire SK10 5RX | T: 01625 560700 | E: info@jamierobins.co.uk | W: www.jamierobins.co.uk
How will you be remembered ? “For those of us who create with our hands and minds, building is where we make our mark in this world, more than steel and concrete it is a collection of our initials signed in sweat.� Korte
Please call us to discuss your building project in complete confidence.
01704 841 831 www.tricklebank.com
An award winning company
Homes and Interiors
INSPIRATION
A LIGHT IN THE DARK While it’s certainly not a time of year that your garden sees a lot of use (February garden party, anyone?), it’s a little-known secret that you can make your home’s interiors feel even cosier by warming the chilly exteriors framed by the windows. A perfect – and simple – way to do this is to invest in some stylish cream-coloured festoon lights to thread through trees or bushes visible from your window, thus framing your garden, and lessening the bleak factor. Stop drawing your curtains at 5pm, and start enjoying the beauty of a wintry outdoor scene from the comfort and warmth of your living room. (gardentrading.co.uk)
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HOT PROPERTY our SHORTLIST OF top properties on the market in and AROUND cheshire
Patchway HEYBRIDGE LANE, PRESTBURY
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atchway was built by the current owners in 2007, constructed of brick elevations with stone detailing and set in approximately 0.8 acres. This grand, six-bedroom family house has been built with a no-expense-spared mantra. The house is designed over four floors and has a flexible layout ideal for modern family living, with a huge kitchen/breakfast room, several entertaining rooms and all bedrooms having en-suite facilities. Internally the accommodation is very light and bright, with a real feeling of space and quality. This quality is displayed in the kitchen with Poggenpohl units inset with Miele and Gaggenau appliances. There is surround sound to most
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rooms, a bespoke oak staircase, beautifully appointed stone tiled bathroom/shower rooms with Harry Bates fittings, and a leisure suite that is second to none with an 8m swimming pool, sauna and sitting area with integrated TV, all surrounded by bi-fold doors opening out onto the rear gardens. The rear of the house and gardens has the most stunning far-reaching southwesterly views of the Bollin valley. The house is approached through an impressive set of wooden electric gates with a high red brick wall and mature planting screening the front gardens from view. A paved driveway provides parking for numerous cars in front of the house and triple garaging. The gardens lie mostly to the rear, south west elevation, with a large stone terrace abutting the rear elevation and
leisure suite, making an ideal al fresco eating area in the sumemr months, allowing for full enjoyment of the wonderful views. Gently sloping manicured lawns make up the majority of the gardens with mature trees, shrubs and hedging encompassing the gardens. On the market at a guide price of ÂŁ2.695 million with Jackson-Stops & Staff, 8 Water Lane, Wilmslow, SK9 5AA (01625 540340; jackson-stops.co.uk)
Homes and Interiors
Lammasfield CHELFORD ROAD, ALDERLEY EDGE
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ammasfield is an exquisite, five-bedroom period family house dating back to 1900. The original dwelling has been tastefully added to, but retains its original charm. This stunning property offers generously proportioned family accommodation, a six-car garage and a nest of ambassadorial-sized formal and informal reception rooms, with the addition of a cinema/media room, snooker room and an impressive leisure complex. The integral leisure suite has a wonderful indoor swimming pool complete with Jacuzzi, shower room, changing room and bar unit incorporating an indoor barbecue, fridge, storage cupboard space and black marble split-level worktop. The pool area leads through to a sprung wooden floor gymnasium, steam room and rainforest shower with WC. Sitting centrally within the ground floor accommodation is a stunning kitchen and open-plan morning room with a bespoke hand-made burred oak and hand-painted kitchen, black granite work surfaces, large central island unit incorporating a Belfast sink unit and two drawer dishwashers. There is also a two-oven Aga and electric microwave/oven unit. The kitchen includes a Sub-Zero wine, fridge and freezer unit. There are separate cooling vegetable drawers for added chilled space. There are French doors to the rear gardens of both the morning room and kitchen. The kitchen is open-plan, leading to the
mahogany-panelled family room which incorporates a beautiful wood-burning stove and built-in television screen. There is fantastically high quality displayed in the fittings, from the mahogany panelling in the formal rooms and entrance hall, to the impressive open fireplaces in both the family room and drawing room. The cinema/media room has seating for 12 and a bar which includes an under-counter fridge and freezer and solid granite worktop. There is a balcony leading from the cinema with panoramic views across the fields and ponds. The snooker room boasts a full-size snooker table and a mahogany carved bar, complete with two fridges and an under-counter sink unit. The house benefits from a comprehensive electronics system which provides AV
distribution to all major rooms. A full vantage system controls lighting throughout the house. Air conditioning is also provided to the orangery, morning room, gym, family room and cinema. This is a house of distinction and quality, ring-fenced by its four acres of stately grounds, giving a high degree of privacy. On the market at a guide price of ÂŁ3.85 million with Jackson-Stops & Staff 8 Water Lane, Wilmslow, SK9 5AA (01625 540340; jackson-stops.co.uk)
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HOT PROPERTY Broadoak CASTLE HILL, PRESTBURY
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his luxurious five-bedroom family house with approx. 2.5 acres of grounds and breathtaking rural views is situated on the outskirts of Prestbury. Broadoak was recently built and designed by the current owners to an extraordinary standard, constructed of mellow red-brick elevations, placed on a sandstone plinth with dressed stone detailing to the elevations. This commanding façade sets the scene for an interior dripping in luxury with bespoke designer fittings adorning each room, giving the whole house an opulent feel. The accommodation is about 10,100 sq ft, laid out over three floors, with the lower ground floor housing the leisure suite that is second to none, with beautifully fitted-out game and cinema rooms, solarium, gym and wine cellar. The
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ground floor has a massive breakfast kitchen, open-plan to a family room, which is equally generous in proportion, with doors to the orangery. Also on the ground floor is a dual-aspect drawing room, a stunning dining room and fitted-out study. The west wing is accessed off the family room and leads to an exquisite indoor pool, served by a shower room, with a glass divide to a sitting room and a relaxation room.
Stairs from the sitting room lead to a staff annex above the garage. The first floor has a majestically large master bedroom with a bespoke fitted dressing room and equally opulent bathroom. There are two further guest suites, with bedrooms four and five served by a family bathroom. On the market at a guide price of ÂŁ4.695 million with Jackson-Stops & Staff, 8 Water Lane, Wilmslow, SK9 5AA (01625 540340; jackson-stops.co.uk)
The Old Stables, Capesthor ne Hall, Nr Alder ley Edge , Cheshire . SK11 9JY By Appointment
W: j a n e y b u t l e r . c o . u k E: hello@janeybutler.co.uk T:
01625 861935
Janey Butler Interiors I n t e r n at i o n a l A w a r d W i n n i n g D e s i g n e r in collabor ation with Er ic Kuster
We love creating kitchen designs that are perfectly suited to your home, personality and lifestyle. in-toto Wilmslow is with you every step of the way, from concept to completion, ensuring that you get the kitchen of your dreams.
Visit our Wilmslow showroom Wilmslow Green, Station Road, SK9 1BT For more information or to book a free design appointment call: 01625 530 792 or visit: www.intoto.co.uk
BERKELEY BERKELEY HOUSE, HOUSE,WILMSLOW WILMSLOW THE THE BEST BEST OF OF BOTH BOTHWORLDS WORLDS
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Think Think spacious spacious light light filled filled living living rooms, rooms, ideal ideal forfor relaxing, relaxing, dining dining and and entertaining. entertaining. With With elegant elegant interior interior design design and and thoughtful thoughtful layout, layout, they they areare perfect perfect forfor today’s today’s relaxed relaxed lifestyle. lifestyle. Also Also featuring featuring thethe latest latest touch touch button button media media forfor watching watching TV,TV, listening listening toto your your favourite favourite music, music, oror controlling controlling thethe ambient ambient lighting. lighting. Think Think SieMatic SieMatic kitchens kitchens that that areare a cooks a cooks dream dream with with plenty plenty of of worktop worktop space space and and state-of-the-art state-of-the-art Siemens Siemens appliances. appliances. Think Think two two oror three three bedroomed bedroomed apartments, apartments, allall designed designed toto bebe a sanctuary a sanctuary of ofrest restand andcalm, calm,with withen-suites en-suitesand andbathrooms bathroomsthat thatboast boasthigh highquality quality Hansgrohe Hansgrohe finishes finishes and and clean clean contemporary contemporary lines. lines. Alternatively Alternatively if aif private a private study study is is your your preference preference thethe spare spare bedroom bedroom can can equally equally fulfi fulfi l this l this function. function. Think Think ‘alfresco’ ‘alfresco’ breakfast breakfast oror a cup a cup of of coffee coffee in in thethe fresh fresh air,air, where where your your private private covered coveredloggia loggiaororoutdoor outdoorbalcony balconybecomes becomesa welcome a welcomeextension extensiontotoyour your home. home. Some Some ground ground floor floor apartments apartments also also feature feature private private terraces, terraces, where where you you cancan enjoy enjoy thethe manicured manicured surrounding surrounding garden, garden, all all looked looked after after byby someone someone else. else. SetSetin inmature maturelandscaped landscapedgrounds groundsBerkeley BerkeleyHouse Housefeels feelsprivate privateand andquiet, quiet, despite despite itsits convenient convenient location, location, just just a short a short walk walk from from thethe centre centre of of town. town. The The town town itself itself is is filled filled with with attractive attractive red-brick red-brick buildings buildings and and leafy leafy streets streets with with a wide a wide range range of of independent independent coffee coffee shops, shops, delicatessens, delicatessens, restaurants, restaurants, a post a post offioffi cece and and a newsagent’s, a newsagent’s, allall onon your your doorstep. doorstep. There’s There’s lots lots of of choice choice forfor dining dining out out with with friends friends and and family, family, from from wine wine bars bars toto cosy cosy country/gastro country/gastro pubs. pubs. Wilmslow Wilmslow also also boasts boasts a mix a mix of of well-known well-known and and independent independent stores, stores, including including thethe iconic iconic Hoopers Hoopers department department store. store. AA weekly weekly ‘MAKERS’ ‘MAKERS’ market market offers offers thethe best bestof ofartisan artisangoods goodsand andthetheHandforth HandforthDean/Cheadle Dean/CheadleRoyal Royalretail retailparks, parks, which which include include a large a large M&S, M&S, Tesco, Tesco, John John Lewis Lewis and and Sainsbury’s, Sainsbury’s, areare both both within within easy easy reach reach byby car. car.
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Berkeley Berkeley House: House: 2020 Chapel Chapel Lane, Lane, Wilmslow, Wilmslow, Cheshire, Cheshire, SK9 SK9 5HX 5HX T. T. 01942 01942 263 263 485 485 E. E. info@berkeleyhousewilmslow.co.uk info@berkeleyhousewilmslow.co.uk www.berkeleyhousewilmslow.co.uk www.berkeleyhousewilmslow.co.uk
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property pick
The Next Big Thing With Montenegro increasingly proving to be the hottest new luxury lifestyle destination on the map, we have high hopes for the Adriatic coast’s biggest opening of 2017: Portonovi
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et on the secluded, exclusive shores of Montenegro’s picturesque Bay of Boka Kotorska – that magical scene where the mountains meet the sea – Portonovi will be an exclusive 60-acre premium resort, offering discerning travellers a selection of beautiful, state-of-the-art properties, from luxurious town houses set in the heart of its Mediterranean-style village and stylish villas in its landscaped gardens, to sleek penthouse apartments overlooking the marina. Loved by Sophia Loren, Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor, Montenegro is an Adriatic beauty to rival the South of France, still largely undiscovered by the wider travel industry. It’s a country with diverse geography from rugged mountains, medieval villages to a narrow strip of beaches along its Adriatic coastline. The Bay of Kotor, resembling a fjord, is dotted with coastal churches and fortified towns such as Kotor and Herceg Novi. Like the Mediterranean resorts, residents and visitors to Portonovi will enjoy a wealth of upscale restaurants such as Tapasake and Loccatelli, as well as sophisticated bars and luxury boutiques. Portnonovi will also soon be home to Europe’s first One&Only Resort, with 120 luxurious guest rooms and villas, a health spa, high-end restaurants and plenty of shops. The luxurious Espace Chenot Health Wellness Spa will be a key feature of the resort, offering guests beauty and cosmetic treatments, a personalised detox and a range of beauty and regeneration treatments. Another key element of Portonovi will be a state-of-the-art, 220-berth superyacht marina, offering excellent access to the Adriatic with the islands off the Dalmatian Coast just a day’s sail away. The Portonovi Yacht Club will be created by Winch Design, the award winning British design studio with a respected name in the yachting industry. Portonovi is less than an hour’s drive from both Dubrovnik (33km) and Tivat International Airport (18km). Both airports have services from destinations across Europe, along with facilities for private jets. (portonovi.com)
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New Showroom Store Street Bollington Cheshire SK10 5PN t: 01625 466200 e: showroom@portraitpools.com w: portraitpools.com
OVERSEAS PROPERTY we’ve picked OUR FAVOURITE properties from AROUND THE WORLD for your viewing pleasure
PORTUGAL Golfe 37, Quinta do Lago Situated in the heart of the Portuguese Algarve, this stunning contemporary property takes full advantage of its 300 days of sunshine a year with terraces encircling each level. An additional sun deck complete with infinity pool overlooks the premier golf course and is perfect for outdoor entertaining. Each terrace level is spacious enough to accommodate al fresco dining while the main terrace leads out to an open-air gazebo, ideal for sunbathing. Built in 2013, the six-bedroom home features the highest standard of luxury fittings, including a home cinema and wine cellar. On the market at a guide price of €6,250,000 (£5,256,000) with Quinta do Lago Real Estate (+351 910014622; quintadolago.com)
italy
Charming Relais in front of the Comacina Island Situated in Sala Comacina, this prestigious villa dates back to the 19th century and has been completely renovated to currently host a successful boutique hotel. The property is built on three levels and features 15 bedrooms, all with balconies overlooking the stunning lake. It also features high ceilings, and is surrounded by 1,250 sq m of elegant terraces and private gardens with panoramic views. Available at a guide price of €7,000,000 (£5,876,000) through Italy Sotheby’s International Realty (+39 031 538 8888; sothebysrealty.com)
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mallorca
Exceptional Country Estate in Alcudia Bay This stunning country villa is located in the beautiful rural surroundings of Santa Margalida in Northern Mallorca. The luxurious property has been renovated over several years and now boasts an elegant appearance with a perfect symbiosis of traditional natural stone and brighter colour elements. It also features six bedrooms, a guest wing, spa area, large garage and each bedroom enjoys its own private terrace area. The property’s location means that it can enjoy stunning views of the whole bay of Alcudia, and complete sun coverage all day. The property’s driveway and high quality gardens are stylishly designed with various walkways and small roundabouts between palm, almond, fig, lemon and olive trees. It also features an indoor pool and a volley ball court. Available at a guide price of €7,800,000 (£6,550,000) through Mallorca Sotheby’s International Realty (+34 971 721 000; mallorca-sothebysrealty.com)
ibiza
Extraordinary Palace in the heart of Dalt Vila This Manorial palace was built in 1740 and is located within the walls of Dalt Vila. It has been renovated in the last few years and boasts an amazing roof terrace with views over the town, harbour, the sea and Ibizan countryside. Its magnificent features include a great reception hall, grand stairway, cinema room and dining room with views to the cathedral. The seven-bedroom property also has a swimming pool, separate independent apartment, wine cellar, spa and hot tub and home theatre. Available at a guide price of €9,500,000 (£7,978,000) through Ibiza Sotheby’s International Realty (+34 971 310 799; ibiza sothebysrealty.com)
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Homes and Interiors
OVERSEAS PROPERTY united kingdom
28 Queen Anne’s Gate, Westminster
CLOSER TO
HOME
A stunning, Grade-I property situated on Queen Anne’s Gate, with the iconic Birdcage Walk at the rear of the house. The townhouse is a brilliant example of early Queen Anne style, a brief period in architectural history prior to the mass development of the Georgian Age, and features the original oak Queen Anne staircase as well as a new staircase and passenger lift. Other highlights include a beautiful carved wooden canopy over the door frame and a blue plaque recognising that it was formerly occupied by Lord Haldane, former Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for War. The property’s formal reception room and stately dining room have large windows overlooking St James’s Park, and the house features an extensive terrace. Thanks to Atelier’s restorations, the house now also boasts a cigar room, a huge master bedroom suite with his-and-hers bathrooms, a vast underground kitchen and family room and an additional professional kitchen. Available at a guide price of £21,000,000 through Hathaways and Knight Frank (020 7222 3133; hathaways.co.uk; 020 7881 7721; knightfrank.co.uk)
Anguilla
Barnes Bay
Located in Barnes Bay, one of the most impressive and exclusive parts of the Caribbean, the property resides above a secluded beach and includes 28,000 sq ft of living space along with two master suites, two private guest suites, a large family room, living room, library, private office and fully equipped kitchen. It also boasts panoramic oceanic views and stunning architecture that blends in smoothly with the natural terrain, such as the stone arches, large mahogany gates and Italian limestone flooring. Amongst that the property boasts an azure infinity pool, an entertainment area for over 100 guests, an 18-seat dining room and media room, both with their own terrace. Available at a guide price of $9,900,000 (£7,954,000) through Sotheby’s International Realty (+264 498 0123; sothebysrealty.com)
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ibiza
Modern Estate with Modern House and Sea Views This impressive mountain estate is situated in the north, close to San Carlos, with breath-taking views of Cara San Vicente bay and the private island of Tagomago. The property includes 450 sq m of floor area and 100,000 sq m of land, along with 6 bedrooms and bathrooms in total. The main house also features large reception areas and multiple terraces and is separated from the guest suite via a large pool. Landscaped grounds surround the property, along with covered gazebos and an outdoor barbeque area. Available at a guide price of €6,500,000 (£5,449,000) through Ibiza Sotheby’s International Realty (+34 971 310 799; ibiza-sothebysrealty.com)
DAVID GRAHAM D E V E L O P M E N T S
THIS IS NOT A GARAGE. It’s a personal viewing gallery for dreams that have been realised a result of a shared passion for perfection between the client and our designer & construction team to deliver a vision into a reality.
From prestigious homes to showcasing your achievements
let us exceed your expectations
W W W . DAV I DG R A H A M D E V E L O P M E N T S . CO. U K
+44 (0)1244 470 501
Homes and Interiors
FINISHING TOUCHES
PAMPER YOUR POOCH As eternally devoted dog lovers, we feel duty-bound to share with you our two newest discoveries in the luxury dog brand market. The first, Charley Chau, makes truly beautiful (and machine-washable!) dog bedding, designed specifically for your pet’s supreme comfort and to complement your home décor. And once your pooch is nicely settled on his or her throne, it’s only natural they’ll want to accessorise. For this, we suggest Maison Le Lou’s signature range of luxury leather collars and leads, each one made with traditional artisan craftsmanship, classic styling and high-end detailing, as well as their adorable plush dog toys and premium grooming products. They also do various gifts for humans, but your pooch doesn’t care about pet-themed artwork and woollen throws, even if you do. (charleychau.com; maisonlelou.com)
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