SCENE APRIL 2011
Kent’s Luxury Lifestyle Bible
15
HIGGINS QUALITY LIVING IN HITHER GREEN CINNAMON CULTURE PHOTOS FROM THE LAUNCH PARTY RENCRAFT HAND MADE KITCHENS FOXES CHISLEHURST FINE EVENING DINING
WAYS TO BE A KENT BRIDE
From the cake to the shoes, make sure your big day is just the way you want it, with no expense spared!
SALEEN
Pure muscle the S281 offers its drivers comfort and emence power
FASHION
We’re Hobbs obsessed with their new Spring Summer Collection £1.75
April 2011
APRIL SHOWERS
GETTING YOUR NAILS DONE FOR SOME LADIES IT IS THE ULTIMATE FASHION ACCESSORY FOR OTHERS THEY ARE PURELY FUNCTIONAL EITHER WAY THERE ARE SO MANY TO CHOOSE FROM AND THEY ALL LOOK GREAT
UPDATE YOUR BATHROOM THIS SPRING SCENE 1
2 260SCENE SCENE SCENE
SCENE SCENE SCENE 6133
Exceptional solid wood furniture for every room 4  SCENE
Rencraft Designed and handmade in our workshops at an affordable price
Please call for a brochure or visit one of our showrooms Unit 9, Chart Farm, Seal Chart Sevenoaks, Kent TN15 0ES Tel: 01732 762682 81 Calverley Road Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 2UY Tel: 01892 520730 www.rencraft.co.uk O
11
N
EW
E
UR
CH
BR
20
SCENE  5
DANMAR BETTER BY DESIGN
We manufacture kitchens to suit everyone’s individual taste. Designed to suit everyone’s budget!
www.danmarkitchens.co.uk Showroom: 51 High Street, West Malling, Kent ME19 6QH. 01732 848333 40SCENE SCENE 6
Full design service, project management and building work.
WELCOME TO THE
APRIL
ISSU E
T
here’s been no fooling around with our April issue as we’ve been working hard to deliver Kent’s latest edition of SCENE.
At last the clocks have moved forward and Spring has officially arrived, so as the weather gets warmer and the days a little longer delve into your copy of this month’s SCENE… This month we attended the launch of Bromley’s all new Cinnamon Culture Indian restaurant - see if you were snapped by our photographer in our social pages. All eyes this month will be on Prince William and Kate Middleton as the couple tie the knot and celebrate their Royal Wedding. We look at the latest Wedding trends. The ideal bathroom has fast developed into a place as important as any other room in your house so our interiors pages focuses on the bathroom in our April Showers feature. Meanwhile, in Chislehurst, we dine at Foxes Brasserie for a relaxing meal in a superb environment … Plus all your usual favourites including: Fashion, Motors, Style, SCENE in Kent and Star SCENE
SCENE 7
12.
April
17.
25.
18.
27.
21.
29.
SCENE In Kent The April update from the local businesses, news, what’s going on and gossip across the Kent county this month. Crystal Palace Crystal Palace stars appear for signing and score huge hit with the shoppers in The Glades, Bromley Cinnamon Culture Brand new Indian restaurant in Shortlands, Bromley opened its doors to the locals last month. Women’s Fashion Hobbs designer womenswear represents a quintessentially English look with a contemporary twist.
8 SCENE
23.
Women’s Style A fantastic selection of products for her, featuring this month the new Love & luck perfume by Ed Hardy Men’s Fashion Spring is finally here, and boy are we glad. We look at this months must have labels for the modern Kent Man. Men’s Style This month we have a cool selection of products including the worlds and lightest electric folding bike in the world. Musical Images Musical Images celebrate 50 years as one of the worlds leading audio authroities in 2011.
31.
45.
36.
47.
38.
49.
39.
53.
42.
56.
Kent Bride 15 ways to be a Kent bride. From the shoes to the catering - make sure you special day is one you will never forget.
New Nails Getting your nails done is a must have for any fashion follower, this month we break down the top styles out there. Star SCENE The stars for the month of March provided by international clairvoyant Jenny Ayers. What will April bring you? Flowers of Love Your wedding day is one of the most important days you will have to prject manage, so why not leave it to someone else? Creative Kitchens Rencraft have been manufacturing solid wood furniture at CHart Farm near Sevenoaks for over 30 years... Here’s why!
April Showers The ideal bathroom has fast developed into a place as important as any other room in your house. Bathroom Stiling We team up with Luxury tile brand Italian Stile, to find out why it is so important to get the tiles right in your bathroom. Fiesta Design Fiesta Design promoted the hansgrohe PuraVida range which offers a new dimension to showering.
Higgins Homes The desirable Hither Green development offers quality yet affordable contemporary appartment
Something Foxy This month we review long established Foxes restaurant on Chislehurst High Street for a spto of evening dinner. SCENE  9
H A M I LT O N H O U S E
SCENE
KENT
T H E O R A N G E RY
Publishing Directors James Green James Nicol
Editor Alexander Heron alexander@scenemagazines.com
Design Editor Jackie Newton jackie@scenemagazines.com
Design Mike Wolfe mike@scenemagazines.com
Account Manager Jo Fraser jo@scenemagazines.com
Accounts Wink Aviss accounts@scenemagazines.com
Distribution SCENE Magazine is distributed to selected homes in Kent and the South East, including Bromley, Beckenham, Chislehurst, Petts Wood, Orpington, West Wickham, Bickley, Hayes, Keston, Blackheath & Sevenoaks It can also be found in hotels, local restaurants, cafes, spas, hairdressing salons, retail outlets and private health and golf clubs.
Online You can also follow SCENE on twitter and become a fan on our facebook page. twitter.com/SCENEMAGAZINES facebook.com/SMAG1
INTERIOR DESIGN SERVICE
Scene Magazine is a monthly lifestyle publication of Scene Publishing Ltd. Registered office 788-790 Finchley Road, London, England, NW11 7TJ.
Curtain Making and Fitting Service
Whilst every effort to ensure that everything we print in Scene Magazine
Lighting • Mirrors • Furniture
factual errors occur. Please check any quoted product specifications with
is factually correct and up-to-date, we cannot be held responsible if
your supplier before purchase. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher.
Published by SCENE Publishing LTD Albert Buildings
61 High Street, Chislehurst, Kent, BR7 5AF
49 Queen Victoria Street
tel 020 8467 3645 fax 020 8295 0580
EC4N 4SA
London
Tel: 020 7653 1942 Email: info@scenemagazines.com Web: www.scenemagazines.com
10 SCENE
Designed for life Beautiful bathrooms & kitchens Designed, fully installed & project managed
Fiesta www.fiestadesign.co.uk Kitchens, Bedrooms, Bathrooms - 020 8302 1368 Fiesta Kitchens Ltd. 29-31 Leith Hill, Orpington, BR5 2RS
SCENE  11
Drive... Volkswagen has unveiled an all-new concept, the ‘Bulli’, at the Geneva Motor Show. It is a development of the Microbus concept which made its debut ten years ago in 2001 and a new generation of Volkswagen people carrier – the first of which broke cover back in 1950 with the production of the first transporter. More compact than the 2001 concept vehicle, the new Bulli is powered by an electric motor and fitted with six seats and infotainment control via iPad. It is front-engined and front-wheel drive. On a wheelbase measuring 2.62 metres, slightly longer than that of a Golf.
SCENE IN
KENT Encore...
Music lovers will be thrilled by the extra performance of a forthcoming addition to our Bang & Olufsen showrooms – BeoSound 5 Encore. As its name suggests, BeoSound 5 Encore will excite its users so much that they will be calling for more, something which the advanced new audio system will promptly deliver thanks to its total freedom when it comes to choice of music source. For example, BeoSound 5 Encore can be connected to your home network via wire or Wi-Fi, a standalone hard drive or take its music from a USB stick or iPod®/iPhone®. Please call for further details on the BeoSound 5 Encore. Bang & Olufsen of Bexleyheath, 155 Broadway, Bexleyheath, DA6 7EZ 0208 303 2760 bexleyheath@bang-olufsen.co.uk Bang & Olufsen of Bromley, 62 High Street, Bromley, BR1 1EG 0208 466 8080 bromley@bang-olufsen.co.uk Bang & Olufsen of Tunbridge Wells, 66 Mount Pleasant Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 1RB 01892 527 525 tunbridgewells@bang-olufsen.co.uk
12 SCENE
Read... In Bad Boy, as before in his impressive body of work, Peter Robinson has tackled and mastered a naggingly recurrent problem for crime writers: the over-familiar scenario. He grabs with both hands the notion of the male/ female copper duo eternally at odds with each other and does something subtly different, always coming up with some new innovation to keep cliché firmly at bay. Here again are DCI Alan Banks and his associate DI Annie Cabbot tackling particularly knotty problems, and even though Banks is offstage for a chunk of the action (evidence, again, of Robinson ringing the changes), we are reminded why readers are so at ease with this long-running series: Banks and Cabbot are two of the most distinctive figures in the overcrowded police procedural field. Available from Waterstones £12.99
Watch... Blu(Jesse Eisenberg)is a rare species of Blue Macaw, who is a resident at a bookstore in Moose Lake, Minnesota, and the last male of his kind. When scientists learn that another macaw was spotted in South America and that the macaw, Jewel (Anne Hathaway) is female, they take him out of Minnesota and send him to Rio de Janeiro to meet her. While there, he learns to confront his fear of flying in order to win her heart. Along the way, they get kidnapped by poachers to sell them to get a fortune. After they escape, they try to avoid the thieves and their pet Cockatoo Nigel (Jemaine Clement) with help from Rafael, a wise Toco Toucan (George Lopez); Luiz, a bulldog (Tracy Morgan); Linda, Blu’s owner (Leslie Mann); Flora, a Roseate Spoonbill (Wanda Sykes); Fernando, a teenage boy (Jake T. Austin); Pedro, a Red-crested Cardinal (will.i.am); and Nico, a small Yellow Canary (Jamie Foxx); with bottle cap as a hat. In Cinemas 08/04/2011 Showcase Bluewater
Touch... iPad 2 features an entirely new design that is 33 percent thinner and up to 15 percent lighter than the original iPad, while maintaining the same stunning 9.7-inch LED-backlit LCD screen. iPad 2 features Apple’s new dual-core A5 processor for blazing fast performance and stunning graphics and now includes two cameras, a front-facing VGA camera for FaceTime® and Photo Booth®, and a rear-facing camera that captures 720p HD video, bringing the innovative FaceTime feature to iPad users for the first time. Though it is thinner, lighter, faster and packed with new features, iPad 2 still delivers up to 10 hours of battery life* that users have come to expect. iPad 2 is available in black or white, features models that run on AT&T’s and Verizon’s 3G networks, and introduces the innovative iPad 2 Smart Cover in a range of vibrant polyurethane and rich leather colors. SCENE 13
Launch... In April Langham’s, London, will offer a celebratory afternoon tea to commemorate the wedding of HRH Prince William to Kate Middleton. The hotel’s executive pastry chef, Cherish Finden, has created special savouries and pastries for the Tea Royale which will be served in the Palm Court throughout April. Finger sandwiches will include fillings of lobster and cucumber with fennel pollen, Scottish salmon poached in pink Champagne with green peppercorns and Castle of Mey beef sirloin with horseradish. The speciality pastries, scones and desserts will be Westminster Abbey chocolate cake, apricot and raspberry Royal Crown, Royal Champagne jelly and warm wild lavender and honey scones with Devonshire clotted cream and strawberry preserve. Tea Royale will cost £51.50
View... The Little Picture Company offers a magical world of art for children filled with lasting treasures to inspire your child’s natural imagination. Their limited edition giclee prints are made using archival vegetable-based inks and printed on a range of environmentally friendly papers, including sustainable bamboo. “Create Easter memories that will last a lot longer than a chocolate egg! Our fun and beautifully made Easter prints will enchant them through the year”, says The Little Picture Company founder, Anita Singh. Visit www.thelittlepicturecompany.org to explore the artists work and find out more about the company.
Listen... ‘21’ is the second album from singer-songwriter Adele, and like her first record, 2008’s ‘19’, it is named after the age Adele was when she wrote the album. Most of ‘21’ was produced by Rick Rubin, who has worked with some of the biggest acts of the last 20 years, and Florence & The Machine producer, Paul Epworth. Lyrically the album reflects Adele’s increased maturity since ‘19’, although it explores many of the same themes. ‘21’ is simply stunning. After only a handful of plays, it feels like you’ve always known it. It will see Adele become an even greater award magnet come the end of the year, leaving her contemporaries for dust. Genuinely brilliant.
14 SCENE
The Gas Fireplace Company
are exclusively offering SCENE Magazine readers,
ÂŁ50 off
on fire and fireplaces collections.
www.thegasfirplace.com Open seven days a week
Offer valid until 5th May 2011. Terms & Conditions apply. One voucher per customer. SCENE  15
It’s not just the flowers that are colourful this Spring...
iPod, iPhone and iPad are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.
BeoSound 8 – new iPod, iPhone & iPad speaker dock
BeoSound 8 is a breath of fresh air for iPod, iPhone and iPad owners. With crystal clear sound and striking good looks that can be individualised with speaker grille covers in a choice of colours, BeoSound 8 adds a refreshing and unprecedented twist to the enjoyment of digital music. Choose BeoSound 8 and add some colour to your music collection. Experience the unrivalled docking station at our showrooms today.
BeoSound 8 loudspeaker cover colour options
Bang & Olufsen of Bexleyheath 155 Broadway, Bexleyheath www.bang-olufsen.com/bexleyheath Tel. 0208 303 2760 Bang & Olufsen of Bromley 62 High Street, Bromley www.bang-olufsen.com/bromley Tel. 0208 466 8080 Bang & Olufsen of Tunbridge Wells 66 Mount Pleasant Road, Tunbridge Wells www.bang-olufsen.com/tunbridgewells Tel. 01892 527525 16 SCENE
CRYSTAL PALACE STARS SCORE HUGE HIT WITH GLADES SHOPPERS The malls at the Glades were a sea of red and blue on Thursday as Eagles supporters queued to meet first team players from the South London Championship team. Captain Paddy McCarthy, goalkeeper Julian Speroni, striker Sean Scannell and defender Lee Hills delighted their loyal fans by posing for photographs and signing autographs. The players were also joined by the club’s mascots – Pete and Alice – who gave away goody bags and tickets to the next Palace home game against Barnsley on 2 April. Paddy McCarthy said, “We always appreciate the tremendous support the fans give us every week and the roadshows are a great opportunity for us to meet them face to face. The Glades was very busy on Thursday and, along with the other three players, I was pleased to have the opportunity to discuss our hopes for the rest of the season, pose for photos and sign autographs.”
SCENE 17
CINNAMON CULTURE This month we attended the launch of Cinnamon Culture. A contemporary new Indian Restaurant that has now opened in Shortlands, Bromley. Smiles were all around as guests enjoyed the delicious Indian canopies featuring samples of the up and coming menu.
18  SCENE
SCENE 19
Boots - Bluewater Msu2, Bluewater Park, Dartford, DA9 9BA 20 SCENE
01322 624780
Hobb
SCENE FASHION: WOMEN’S
HOBBS DESIGNER WOMENSWEAR REPRESENTS A QUINTESSENTIALLY ENGLISH LOOK WITH A CONTEMPORARY TWIST. THE NEW SPRING SUMMER 2011 COLLECTION IS NOW IN STORE
Addiction
HOBBS LIMITED EDITION EMPIRE TUXEDO DRESS, £249 HOBBS LIMITED EDITION EMPIRE STAR JACKET, £249
HOBBS HEATHCOTE TOP, £69 GALINDO SKIRT, £99 MORTIMOR BELT, £59 COURTS, £24.99
HOBBS LIMITED EDITION EMPIRE SPOTTY BLOUSE, £169
HOBBS SUSSEX DRESS, £99
HOBBS NW3 GOODISON BROGUED COURTS, £159
HOBBS LAMBOURNE BAG, £199
SCENE 21
ADVANCED MEDICAL CONSULTANCY SERVICE appearances by Gillian Huntley As seen on Sky TV
Gillian has been in the industry for over 20 years, and has trained in the UK, USA and Europe. B.I.A.E I.T.E.C B.A.B.T.A.C S.P.C.P C&G MGPT
ADVANCED SEMI-PERMANENT COSMETICS
• Eyebrow enhancements • Eyeliner • Lip liner/blush • Alopecia • Tattoo removal • Scar rejuvenation • Areola & nipple reconstruction A patch test is required 24 hours prior to treatment
SPECIALIST TREATMENTS
• Wrinkle fill therapy • Ear piercing • Anti-ageing facials • Mesotherapy • Red veins and skin tag removal • Hollywood & Brazilian waxing Approved for practice at BMI Hospitals - The Sloane and Chelsfield Park
aspire • perfect • perfection
M: 07711 067 789 E: appearances@hotmail.co.uk www.appearances4u.co.uk 22 SCENE
Surprises
SCENE STYLE: WOMEN’S
SPRING
CHARM COIN PURSE Keep your coins safe with this pink butterfly charm coin purse by Martine Wester. Its light pink colour makes it an ideal addition to your handbag this spring Available from Martine Wester £24.00
PAISLEY PRINT WOVEN SHORT
CAMEO CUSHION Comfy and stylish, the cameo cushion is a great addition to any home. Available from House of Fraser £40.00
This Spring paisley is making a return, for Ted Baker it is in the form of these Woven Shorts. Available from Debenhams £16.50
ORIENTAL GARDEN These colourful tealight holders by Linea are a great way to light upp the surroundings in your home Available from House Of Fraser £4 each
LOVE & LUCK BY ED HARDY A contrast between elegant woods and bright fruits brings the perfect balance of sophistication and playfulness. Full of life, a colourful and tantalizing cocktail of Bergamot and Blood Orange is mixed with a unique Red Sake Accord. Available from The Perfume Shop £31.50 SCENE 23
50SCENE SCENE 24
SCENE FASHION: MEN’S
WEAR THE
SPRING IS FINALLY HERE WE LOOK AT THIS MONTHS MUST HAVE LABELS FOR THE MODERN KENT MAN
DIFFERENCE
DEBENHAMS RUGBY SHIRT £32
DEBENHAMS MAINE NEW ENGLAND JACKET £95
DEBENHAMS ASPER CONRAN WASHED SHORTS £30
DEBENHAMS SHIRT
DEBENHAMS MAINE NEW ENGLAND JACKET £95
DEBENHAMS MANTARAY TRILBY £22
SCENE 25
3
4
Clairvoyant Medium Jenny Ayers is an international clairvoyant medium and gives one-to-one sittings at her home in East Sussex as well as postal, telephone and e-mail sittings to her large clientele all over the world.
Contact Jenny 07919 082 241 spiritualists@googlemail.com www.living-proof.biz 26  SCENE
SCENE STYLE: MEN’S
GUILTY FOR MEN BY GUCCI Guilty Pour Homme is carefully designed for men who know what they want and who get what they want. The charismatic alpha male, a true magnet for ladies, is represented in this provocative and seductive composition. Available from The Perfume Shop £TBC
ON YOUR BIKE The YikeBike mini-farthing has a radically different riding position and steering and wheel configuration, giving a safe smooth ride while folding up to a super small size. The YikeBike mini-farthing is the smallest, and at 10kg, the lightest electric folding bike in the world. Available from YikeBike starting at £2,422
METROPOLITAN’ BAG Iconic printed metropolitan bag from Vivienne Westwood £249.99
SUEDE LACED SHOES A great addition to the shoe collection, these suede laced shoes from Jeff Banks are a great addition to this springs new fashion collections. Wear them with shorts or chinos. Available from Debenhams £70.00
BLACK LEATHER Black leather ‘Skull’ wallet. Available from House of Fraser £85 SCENE 27
T Series
slim speakers, serious sound
‘An innovative, stealthy surround package that looks and sounds the part – it’s a deeply immersive experience.’’ 8 ;LEX ,M *M# 7SYRH ERH :MWMSR %TVMP
-J ]SY´ZI LIEVH ¾ EX WGVIIR 8: WTIEOIVW XLEX WSYRH EW XLMR EW XLI] PSSO SYV RI[ YPXVE PS[ TVS½ PI 8 7IVMIW will come as a revelation. 8LEROW XS E VEHMGEPP] MRRSZEXMZI RI[ PS[ TVS½ PI FEWW driver and a large new vented tweeter ingeniously TEGOIH MRXS SRI SJ XLI WPMQQIWX GEFMRIXW EVSYRH MX LEW XLI TS[IV XS WYVVSYRH ]SY [MXL LMKL HI½ RMXMSR three dimensional sound of startling realism. For acoustic integrity, they effortlessly outperform many high quality conventional home theatre systems. 7IVMSYWP] GP Acoustics (UK) Limited Eccleston Road, Tovil, Maidstone, Kent, ME15 6QP, U.K. Telephone: +44 (0)1622 672261 Fax: +44 (0)1622 750653 28 SCENE
Place you Company Logo in Musical Images the outlined area 126 High Street, to the right no larger than w: 30mm x h: 11mm Beckenham, Kent, BR3 1ED Tel. 020 8663 3777 Company Name in Gill Sans Regular 7.5pt Contact Details in Gill Sans Light 7.5pt
Musical Images Company Name 173town, Stationcounty Road, Address including Edgware, Middlesex, AddressHA8 Line7JX 2 Tel. 020 8952 5535 Postcode www.musical-images.co.uk 8IPITLSRI ERH *E\ RYQFIVW Please call your local branch for opening times ;IF %HHVIWW
www.kef.com
MUSICAL IMAGES KEF & MUSICAL IMAGES – AUDIO INNOVATION AND EXPERTISE; WORKING TOGETHER FOR OVER 25 YEARS.
C
elebrating 50 years as one of the world’s leading Audio authorities in 2011, KEF continues to provide smart and innovative solutions for traditional loudspeakers, stylish home theatre systems and custom installation products that can satisfy your demand for true HD fidelity throughout your home. The core values of KEF: innovation, quality and performance have ensured that KEF has one of the best international reputations for audio excellence. KEF produce speakers for every purpose and price tag; livingspace friendly home cinema such as the high definition KHT and the stunning and powerful T Series; Box Speaker systems such as the classleading Q Series and the ultimate Reference Series and Muon. KEF has been working in partnership with
Musical Images for over 25 years, and they recently selected the store as KEF Southern Retailer of the Year 2010. Musical Images has a wide range of KEF speakers set up ready for demonstration in their demo facility, and their knowledgeable staff are always on hand to give a tailored demonstration to suit any requirement. Currently on display and ready for a demo is the multi-award winning T Series, the latest innovation from the KEF engineering team, which reproduces audiophile quality sound from a cabinet of a meagre 35mm depth. The slim design perfectly complements the latest flat screen televisions, and is designed to fit seamlessly into any living space. Open Mon - Sat 9.30am - 6pm For more information visit www.musicalimages.co.uk or call 020 8663 3777 SCENE 29
30 SCENE
Ways to be a
KENT BRIDE SCENE 31
14 COCKTAIL WEDDING RECEPTION
Holding a cocktail wedding reception doesn’t mean you have to forgo all the formalities of a seated wedding reception. Wedding guests will still expect wedding speeches, want the cutting of the wedding cake, and always hope for a bridal waltz.
SPARKLE IN STYLE
Have fun with your wedding dress code. Think “party, glitz and glamour” and add this stunning Swarovski crystal bridal handbag to your outfit. Made with Crystallised elements and designed with thousands of multi-size clear and AB crystals. £499.00 available from www.crystalbridalaccessories.co.uk
WALK THIS WAY
2
If you loved the Swarovski crystal bridal handbag, why not combine with a matching pair of Charlize Swarovski shoes designed by Benjamin Adams. The Wedding Shoes are beautiful and feature a magnificent high heel and are adjorned with hundreds of Swarovski crystals and an open peep toe. £499.00 available from www.crystalbridalaccessories.co.uk
32 SCENE
3
BREAK THE ICE
From enviable styling to gorgeous table decorations and gifts head to John Lewis to inspire and help you create a truly memorable day. Wedding Games are the ideal way to break the ice between your guests try the John Lewis Fortune Tellers pack. Available from John Lewis £6.00
SHORTEN THE DRESS
5
On the dance floor change into something a little shorter like the Coast Emeline Lace Dress. The sophisticated lace and oyster shift dress has grosgrain detailing around the waist and has a scalloped hem showing the delicate oyster colour underneath. Available from www.coaststores.com £135.00
CHOOSE THE RING
6
For the perfect wedding ring visit Magill’s of London. With a unique one-on-one consultation from choosing the diamond through to a CAD design and then on to the finished article. Whether it is an engagement ring, wedding band or a show stopping piece, nothing is too big or too small. Visit Magill’s of London, 106 High Street, Beckenham, Kent, BR3 1EB Tel: 020 8650 5217
GET THE SCENT A sheer Fruity Floral fragrance that evokes everything from the magical and mystical to the fearless and fascinating. With a blend of exotic flowers, succulent fruits and forbidden woods, Vera Wang Princess is an enchanting celebration of modern femininity. Available from Harrods £60.00
7
AVOID THE RAIN Designed for the Bride who is after that traditional look on her special day. Whatever time of year that you plan your wedding day, you can never completely rely on the Great British weather to behave itself – even a brief shower at the wrong moment could spoil months and months of hard work and planning. Available from AYE DO £24.99
8
SCENE 33
12
YOUR MY TYPE Be creative with your guestbook by swapping paper and pen for an antique typewriter, Polaroid camera, or vintage postcards so your guests can leave you a wedding message in a fun unique way. Alternatively create your own retro wedding invitations.
10
9
GIRLS BEST FRIEND Diamonds are no longer a girls best friend as Christian Louboutin shoes are on the scene. Finding the perfect pair of wedding shoes can be a difficult task so make life easy for yourself and check out the fabulous range of shoes that Christian Louboutin has to offer. www.christianlouboutin.com
11 34 SCENE
BOUX AVENE Get his pulse racing with fabulous lingerie. Boux Avenue have a wonderful selection of underwear for the wedding day and the unforgettable honeymoon. Featured right is the Marilyn Plunge Bra in Pink £32 (32A-38DD) and Girdle £40 (8-16). Available from www.bouxavenue.com
HAVE YOUR CAKE AND EAT IT
If you’re looking for a unique, stunning wedding cake, The Yummy Cake Company produces beautiful, wedding cakes created specifically for you. Your ideas can be discussed at a consultation meeting where you can taste samples of the cakes before we design your dream wedding cake. www.yummycakecompany.co.uk
13
IT’S A KIND OF MAGIC
International Magician, Steve Dela, is one of the UK’s top wedding magicians and has helped to make hundreds of weddings a magical success. Make your wedding even more memorable by booking Steve to entertain your guests. Call 07590 029287 or visit www.stevedela.com for more information.
14
CATWALK WEDDING STYLE
Break the rules and go for a look that’s a little more unconventional than the usual wedding clothes. We love this spacey looking Chanel Bride and Groom wedding dress and suit. Available from www.chanel.com
WEDDING TRADITIONS UNCOVERED THE BOUGQUET The thrill of catching the bouquet dates back to medieval Europe when single girls chased the bride to tear off a piece of her dress as a fertility charm. Eventually, savvy brides chose to toss their bouquet and salvage the dress.
The Flowers
15
LIFE’S A BEACH
For the ultimate honeymoon experience, stay on your very own private island such as Richard Branson’s exclusive Necker Island, a private paradise that is situated in the British Virgin Islands, a stunning and unspoilt area of the Caribbean. www.neckerisland.virgin.com
Grooms wearing flowers in their button-holes stems from heroic knights wearing lady’s colours as a declaration of love.
The Engagement Ring We have the Italians to thank for diamond rings. In the 1400s they believed the precious gem was created in the flames of love, making them the perfect choice as a token desire.
SCENE 35
GETTING YOUR NAILS DONE FOR SOME LADIES, GETTING YOUR NAILS DONE BECOMES A PART OF AN ULTIMATE FASHION ACCESSORY, FOR OTHERS, THEY’RE PURELY FUNCTIONAL. THIS MONTH WE HEADED OUT ON TO THE HIGH STREETS OF KENT AND VISITED THE TOP BEAUTY SALONS TO LOOK AT SOME OF OUR FAVOURITE NAIL TREATMENTS THAT ARE AVAILABLE TODAY.
MINX NAILS AT AMANDA JANE The launch of Minx nail fashion is a new and glamorous way for women to extend fashion to their very fingertips. Minx Nails are the latest trend in celebrity nails. A flexible polymer that is heated then applied to nails, like a sticker, they are a mess free, green alternative to nail polish and fake tips. Having become the latest must have fashion accessory for the celebs, being worn by names such as Victoria Beckham, Christina Aguillara, Rihanna and Beyonce to name but a few.
36 SCENE
SHELLAC NAILS The beauty world is raving about the Shellac nail craze. This new revolutionary product is changing the way women get their nails done. Shellac nails look as good if not better than acrylic nails and last up to 14 days without losing shine or shimmer. They are hard and do not scratch or smudge. When it comes time to take them off the nail, it is as easy as 1, 2, 3 and it does not damage the nail itself.
BIO SCULPTURE NAILS Bio Sculpture is the perfect solution for beautiful nails and offers a permanent nail colour that lasts for weeks without wearing or chipping. The advantage of Bio Sculpture Colour Gel is that you can easily change your nail colour by simply applying Bio Sculpture Nail Polish. Later the polish can be removed with Bio Sculpture’s non-acetone polish remover and the permanent nail colour will be restored to its original state. When wiped with non-acetone polish remover the permanent colour will not be removed in the same fashion as nail polish.
SCENE  37
SCENE
Star SCENE is brought to you by International Clairvoyant Jenny Ayers. For a more in depth reading or to arrange a sitting contact Jenny below. Jenny Ayers Tel: 07919 082 241 jenny_mustafa.ayers@virgin.net
Aries
Libra
21 Mar-19 Apr If you feel out of your depth at this time it is because you have not put enough preparation into your work. Insufficiencies there have caused a ripple effect to occur. To bring you back on course you need to change your mindset and begin again in earnest. A golden opportunity awaits you to restart a vital programme of growth which will stand you in good stead.
23 Sep-22 Oct The hard struggle that you constantly find yourself in is no more. The Earth’s vibrational pull has expanded itself to such an extent that matters now in one’s life are no more constricted. So you can see the end to all this misery and start in earnest to plan successfully for that future. It will be step by step as you still need to believe and trust.
Taurus
Scorpio
20 Apr-20 May No need to feel troubled anymore, the dark clouds really are moving away. Accept the bright light of certainty and begin to rebuild that marvellous future you have been raving about for years. Begin to see a pattern of change and where there were only patchy orders coming in, now more lucrative business comes your way. It is high time you believed in your ability to succeed.
23 Oct-21 Nov Make your peace with yourself and start to see just how badly you did or did not do. You put yourself down when there is no need. What seemed a wrong decision in fact has come startlingly right and you will begin to laugh through the pain of your personal agony that all was well, even though you did not think so at the time.
Gemini 21 May-20 Jun Are you able to achieve more this year than you did last? Well to be able to advance yourself in a more stable satisfying position, you need to sort out those wants and those unwanted things that still help to clog up your life. Start to see just what you want and begin to focus on that dream more readily. You will be amazed with what turns up.
Cancer 21 Jun-22 Jul Now the climax to your career comes in putting your mind in a spin. Start to see why you are now here and the enormous effort you have played in your life to finally achieve this greatness. It was never an easy road as the stakes were high indeed. Begin your life now as it will continue to be with you at the helm all the way.
Leo 23 Jul-22 Aug It is now that you are thrust into the limelight of success. It has been a long time in coming and is well earned for all time. Take the next two weeks at a steady rate so that you can soak up all that extra adulation that you so richly deserve. The turning point had to be dramatic to have the necessary impact, so well done.
Sagittarius 22 Nov-21 Dec Now as you turn the corner of life and begin on another adventure, all is not as it seems. The Earth’s vibrational pulls have change things dramatically for a lot of people and so now you have a new path to follow with great expectations. The world now waits for your presence to see just what you can do next. Use your wisdom wisely.
Capricorn 22 Dec-19 Jan It is now that you face your greatest challenges. You will feel buoyant and gung-ho to say the least. What you have already gone through is no more. There is a new canvas to start with and you can within reason write your own destiny. Start now and see just how easy it all is. So many things fall into place for you, you will be amazed.
Aquarius 20 Jan-18 Feb What you seriously thought was not going to happen actually now has. You are amazed and a little out of sorts over it. It will surpass your expectations and a relief will finally be admitted by you to a lot of people. Believe again in your ability and see the massive work you have already accomplished. You are now where you were meant to be.
Virgo
Pisces
23 Aug-22 Sep Many things come to those who wait and your wait has been longer than most. You are truly saved and can begin to trust in a process you thought would never happen and finally has. It is to your credit, hard work and patience that you are now saved for all time. To start again is not required, but to further trust is!
19 Feb-20 Mar It seems a shock to you that everything has worked out so well. It can only get better. Expansion of work and profit is there for you and you need do little to obtain it. It’s there by right. You have worked diligently over years to achieve this goal and accolade. It is given to you sweetly, so you need never fear your future again.
38 SCENE
FLOWERS OFLove
Y
our wedding day is the most important one day event you will ever project manage. For some it will be a grand affair with a big budget for hundreds of guests, for others it will be an intimate gathering of family and close friends.
The time to book a consultation with your florist is when you have purchased your wedding dress and decided on the theme and colour scheme for your wedding day. The theme and colour scheme of your day should be evident in the bridal flowers, church flowers and function decor. As the majority of brides wear either white or ivory, the colour scheme of the day is usually dictated by the colour of the bridesmaid dress. The theme of the wedding is sparked by the personality or interest of the couple. The initial consultation is to detail your requirements; bridal bouquet, bridesmaid bouquet, buttonholes, church decor, function decor, corsages, etc. Nothing is set in stone and you will make at least two or three visits, (maybe more), depending on the scale of the event. A variation of the hand-tied domed bouquet bound in satin ribbon is still hot favourite among brides and it is rare to see a modern bride with a down shower bouquet. This could all change with the Royal Wedding in April. Create a bespoke bouquet by binding the stems with the same material as your dress, or incorporate beads, pearls lace or diamante pins similar to any detail on your dress. Your Florist will work with you to create the design best suited to your style of dress and advise on the seasonal availability of your chosen flowers. The groom’s buttonhole and any additional buttonholes should be made with the focal flower of the bride’s bouquet to create unity within the bridal party. Flower girls look cute carrying pomanders, sparkly wands with a single flower and ribbon or baskets. The other female members of the bridal party can wear a corsage on the lapel, shoulder, wrist or handbag. Be extravagant with your church decor as this provides a wonderful backdrop to your photographs and video. Place large pedestals either side of the altar, decorate the base of the pulpit and place pew ends at the end of each row. Decorate any window ledges and place a decorated arch around the entrance of the church. Pillars can be dressed with lush garlands of choice foliage and flowers. The function decor should make your guests say WOW as they enter the room. Select tall designs for function rooms with a high ceiling. Select simple designs such as candelabras with church candles, placed on a glass plate with scattered petals or glass beads or t-lights. Or create a huge loose ball of flowers on the candelabra or around the base of the candelabra. Floating candles in oversized champagne or martini vases look absolutely stunning. A huge ball of mixed flowers in your chosen colour scheme with peacock feathers is to die for. Place hanging t-lights on long stems of contorted willow to create a whimsical table centre. Long and low or round and low arrangements are more suited to low ceilings. The top table should be dressed fit for a King and Queen for the day, whether it is a traditional cascade or a contemporary design of cubes filled with white roses and linked with grasses. Don’t forget the cake table arrangement and fresh flowers to decorate the cake and perhaps a small design for the signing table. If you have had lots of help from family and friends, have a few gift bouquets made up for the Best Man to present during the speeches. Do visit our website www.blushtemples.co.uk
SCENE 39
Bromley’s really cooking • Over 60 exclusive styles – only available from Everest. • Made to order in the UK to exactly match your design. • Comprehensive 10 year guarantee for furniture, fitting, parts and labour. Come and see our stunning range at the Everest Kitchen Showroom, 99 High Street, Bromley (opposite Churchill Theatre). Call 0800 008 7163 or visit everestkitchens.co.uk
40 SCENE
Portfolio
KENT
SCENE
&Interiors
Property
SCENE 41
CREATIVE
KITCHENS
R
encraft have been manufacturing solid wood furniture at Chart Farm near Sevenoaks for over 30 years. Over this time they have witnessed fashions and tastes change from the simple country charm of pine kitchens to the sophisticated and sleek modern kitchen. However, one thing that hasn’t changed is their commitment to designing and producing made to measure fitted furniture which fulfils the requirements of each individual client. The solid wood, handmade kitchens are unique; each is designed to suit individual requirements.
Every piece of furniture is hand made in their extensively equipped 12,000 sq ft workshops which allows freedom and flexibility in planning and design, full control of material and production quality all delivered at a sensible cost. The end result is hand crafted furniture which is fitted to achieve maximum practicality and functionality whilst retaining aesthetic integrity and charm. Rencraft have extensive showrooms both at Chart Farm, Seal Chart, Sevenoaks and Calverley Road, Tunbridge Wells. Both of these showrooms give clients the opportunity to view the range of design possibilities and to appreciate the inherent quality of their solid wood furniture. On display you will find hand painted, solid oak, walnut, and maple kitchens together with combinations of these materials. The choice of materials for the exterior surface is a matter of prime importance. Where a painted finish is preferred, a tulipwood frame is recommended. The “Painted Kitchen” has become one of the most enduring, stylish and practical finishes for a modern kitchen. The furniture is delivered for installation with two coats of white primer, ready for hand painting on site after installation. This allows the full befit of colour, nuance and surface texture to be matched to the specific room and desired style. Rencraft also offer Oak , the appearance and properties of which have made it one of the most enduring and popular timbers for the production of high quality furniture for centuries. Rencraft offer clients the choice of knot content and finish; either oiled to give a more modern feel or waxed to give a more mature appearance. Since the furniture is made specifically for your project, the choice is entirely yours and can further enhance the overall effect, from an oak barn conversion to a modern new build or a style 42 SCENE
to complement the architecture of the property. You can also specify the interior fittings to match or contrast with the exterior. You can chose the basic structure to be made with solid pine, oak, walnut, maple or engineered birch ply. Oak and walnut veneered MDF is also an option. Rencraft invite you to visit the showrooms where their experienced and enthusiastic design staff will offer a relaxed and sensible approach to the often complex process of choosing, designing and specifying a modern kitchen. They are available to work closely with you to interpret your plans and ideas and progress your project from initial concept through overall and detail design to manufacture and final installation. Rencraft are happy to work on projects of any size from a single piece of freestanding furniture to multi room schemes in both new build and refurbishments. The furniture is not
defined by pre-determined ranges but is drawn from the best of traditional and contemporary patterns and styles as required to produce an exceptional and individual overall effect. Rencraft offer a comprehensive range of all associated specialist products: sinks, taps, appliances, worktops, flooring, etc. They are specialist suppliers of Miele and Neff appliances and can supply any other available appliance. Often a kitchen, or other domestic building project, involves some form of associated building works. When required, Rencraft are able to provide general building, plastering, tiling, plumbing and electrical services. This may be part of the whole contract or a separate contract with an approved contractor. In either case, Rencraft liaise closely with the contractor to co-ordinate all the works in order to produce the best possible outcome with
minimum inconvenience and disruption. Finally a word from one of Rencraft’s customers, which highlights the level of service and quality that they offer. “We would like to take this opportunity to thank you personally for all of the time and effort that you have put into making sure that our kitchen was exactly as we wanted it. The care and attention to detail in making sure that the plans worked not only with our wishes but also from a practical point of view were outstanding. You have been very patient with our endless visit and questions which are so important when choosing a kitchen, the heart of the home. The kitchen is so well made and it is such a pleasure to walk into now.” 01732 762682 Unit 9 Chart Farm, Seal Chart, Sevenoaks, Kent TN15 0ES 01892 520730 81 Calverley Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 2UY rencraft.co.uk
SCENE 43
Culina Cookshop cook • bake • dine
Culina stocks a comprehensive range of cookware, kitchenware & tableware 020 8467 0488 30 High Street, Chislehurst, BR7 5AN 44 SCENE
AprilShowers T
he ideal bathroom has fast developed into a place as important as any other room in your house. No longer does a bathroom consist of just the usual assortment of bare essentials. Bathrooms today are slick, tastefully decorated and hold their own just like any other room of the household. One of the major reasons for this is the availability of a vast variety of bathroom furniture. Bathroom furniture today has made it possible for you to make refinements to the look and the appeal of the bathroom by adding cabinets, vanity units and Bathroom mirrors. Decorating a bathroom, shopping for tiles, fixtures, and other products can be great fun if you know what you’re looking for and how it will meet your needs. Today’s bathroom remodelling scene is so full of fabulous innovations and glamorous attractions, you’re likely to be distracted if you don’t shop with a plan. So check out your options in terms of function and budget first. Then you can indulge in the fun of choosing among items you know you’ll still feel good about years from now!
SCENE 45
exceptional italian tiles...
ITALIANSTILE at Bellegrove Ceramics 651-661 Princes Road, Dartford, DA2 6EF
01322 277 877
50-52 London Road, Southborough, TN4 OPT
01892 541790
www.italianstile.co.uk 46  SCENE
St iling
Bathroom
T
oday’s bathroom is as much about relaxation and escapism as about keeping clean. More than simply a practical room in the house, the bathroom is about feeling good and experiencing the simple pleasures and tranquillity of your own space. Bathrooms are considered the most visited room in the house, therefore it is very important to create an environment that is welcoming and inviting for you and your family as well as your guests. There is a multitude of choice and many styles of bathroom interiors on the market, from the traditional to the contemporary, and bathrooms come in all shapes and sizes. It is essential to take the time to research what will work with your space and light. It is so important when designing and choosing your look to consider the floor and wall tiles to complement your chosen suite and achieve your desired effect. The real secret to a unique and beautiful bathroom is to choose the right size, design and material of tile. With so many different designs and colours available
time should be taken to select the right tiles for you and your bathroom. Whether you choose luxurious marble or calming limestone, large wall tiles or small, the tiles will complete the look to create a wonderful space to relax and unwind. Italian Stile offer a comprehensive range of porcelain and ceramic tiles of the highest quality to suit every style of room. Exceptional tiles for inside and outside the home manufactured in their own factories at affordable prices without compromise! Visit www.italianstile.co.uk for tile design ideas and inspiration. For more information visit our showrooms; DARTFORD SHOWROOM 651-661 Princes Road, Dartford, DA2 6EF 01322 277 877 TUNBRIDGE WELLS SHOWROOM 50-52 London Road, Southborough, TN4 OPT 01892 541790 SCENE  47
Rixson Green in Shortlands village specialise in supplying the finest range of bathrooms available. The newest collection to hit the design market is the reinvented Subway collection from Villeroy and Boch. The collection has been designed with family in mind, boasting compact and efficient storage and versatile cabinetry options. The mix and match furniture is available in several colour ways, including a petrol blue, high gloss white and industrial grey; offering design flexibility and a multitude of interior options that will integrate perfectly into any design scheme. The Subway collection is one of Villeroy & Boch’s most popular ranges due to its versatility. Perfect for urban singletons who require less storage and large families alike who can add additional pieces as the family demands grow.
Available from Rixson Green 110-112 Beckenham Lane Bromley, Kent BR2 0DW Tel: 020 8290 1777 www.rixson-green.co.uk
Rixson & Green
Shortlands Ltd
bathrooms and wet rooms sales, design and installation
• Laufen • Keuco • Hansgrohe • Dornbracht • Axor • Daryl • Majestic • Tiles 110 - 112 Beckenham Lane, Shortlands, Bromley, BR2 0DW 020 8290 1777 • sales@rixson-green.co.uk • www.rixson-green 48 SCENE
Fiest a Design
PROMOTES THE HANSGROHE PURAVIDA RANGE……….
T
he Hansgrohe PuraVida is just one of the innovative Hansgrohe ranges which offers a new dimension to showering. One of the main reasons this offers such a unique showering experience is in the secret of the patented AirPower technology. The air mixed with water creates droplets that gently bounce off the skin, at the same time giving you a powerful and invigorating shower! Your skin is gently caressed and pampered, the Caresse function mixing five jets together to form flowing waves of warm water. Fiesta highly recommends the PuraVida solution for it’s diverse range of products, unique style and for a truly amazing ‘rain shower’ experience recommends the overhead shower as pictured. The hand held shower allows you to alternate functions among the three different spray modes (Rain Air, Mix & Caresse Air) all at the push of the button, whilst the baton hand shower is perfect for the bath for rinsing your body or washing your hair. Plus In an age where minimal cleaning solutions are required these products
are also unique; rubbing them with your fingers easily cleans ‘QuickClean’ jets. It all sounds too easy I hear you say, but yes it really does work! Could we really ask for much more …………… Well in addition to a unique showering experience, functionality, design and the cleaning practicalities, why not add intelligence to your shower with a ‘RainBrain’. This is a small computer which allows you to control your own showering programme – create your own desired temperature before you get into the shower, programme automatic shower intervals and changing temperature, or perhaps even create the atmosphere with some music! This is a truly pampering shower solution, and one, which needs to be experienced to be fully appreciated and enjoyed. Be warned however, shower time may no longer be a brisk affair!! For further details on the PuraVida range or any other showering or bathing solutions please call Geoff at Fiesta Design on 020 8302 1368 or alternatively visit our website www.fiestadesign.co.uk SCENE 49
savills.co.uk
Chislehurst Road, BR7
Stunning and spacious family home. A beautifully presented detached house, finished to a high standard, offering amazing living accommodation, ample storage throughout. Outdoor swimming pool, in and out driveway providing ample parking. Prime location for commuting, set in the popular Chislehurst Road.
Guide price £1,250,000 Savills Locksbottom locksbottom@savills.com 01689 860999
Keston Park, BR2
A beautifully finished family home offering outstanding accommodation. Completed in early 2011, bespoke designs throughout, fitted with the latest in luxury technology offering both security and luxury living. In and out driveway, situated within the exclusive and desirable Keston Park.
Guide price £2,400,000 Savills Locksbottom locksbottom@savills.com 01689 860999
50 SCENE
savills.co.uk
Chislehurst, BR7
Abury, BR7
Guide price £995,000
Guide price £995,000
Savills Locksbottom locksbottom@savills.com 01689 860999
Savills Locksbottom locksbottom@savills.com 01689 860999
Bickley, BR1
Keston Park, BR2
Guide price £1,195,000
Guide price £3,850,000
Beautifully presented and spacious family home. The property is finished to an exacting standard, potential to further extend, great outdoor space, situated in the much sought after area of Chislehurst.
Well presented family home finished to a high standard set on an impressive plot. Nestled in the delightful surroundings of Oldfield Park, great scope for future extension, good location for Bromley High, orangery, triple garage & parking.
Savills Locksbottom locksbottom@savills.com 01689 860999
Rare Grade two listed Elizabethan property set in the heart of Chislehurst. Four bedrooms, many charming original features, set back from Royal Parade, surrounded by Holly bushes and a white picket fence, at home office in garden.
A spectacular detached family house benefitting from beautifully presented and extensive accommodation. Prestigious park location, practical and versatile layout, mature gardens, one bedroom annexe, indoor swimming pool.
Savills Locksbottom locksbottom@savills.com 01689 860999
Chislehurst, BR7
Chislehurst, BR7
Guide price £1,450,000
Guide price £2,350,000
Savills Locksbottom locksbottom@savills.com 01689 860999
Savills Locksbottom locksbottom@savills.com 01689 860999
Penthouse apartment living in a prime location. A luxury penthouse apartment, stylish and modern, own private floor and lift entry, gated complex, private terraces, views over the woodland and beyond, set in the very popular village of Chislehurst.
A superb Victorian family house offering spacious accommodation over four floors with an abundance of character features. Truly stunning property, provides magnificent family accommodation, Chislehurst village location, walled gardens, large garage.
SCENE 51
020 8663 1964
www.charleseden.co.uk
Moving
Made Easy Charles Eden is the leading Independent Estate Agent with more than 100 years’ experience in selling residential property.
“The strong values of service and attention to detail combined with the latest technology means that Charles Eden provides its clients with what we believe to be unparalleled customer service whether selling or buying a property” Justin Flanagan – Managing Director
52 SCENE
Being Exclusive members of the ‘Guild of Professional Estate Agents’ for Beckenham & Shortlands, gives Charles Eden access to over 600 networked offices throughout the country & an associated office in Park Lane. Wherever you are looking to buy or sell, Charles Eden will be able to help either directly or through one of our Partners. So just one call will set you on the road to a smooth & stress free move.
1 Kelsey Park Road, Beckenham, Kent, BR3 6LH
Al fresco living
Orchard Priory • Garden design • Landscaping • Oak buildings •
www.orchardpriory.co.uk 0800 043 1435
Personalised garden design & build service Our aim is to design a new garden that not only satisfies your needs but provides you with a beautiful additional room to your home. A place to dine a place to entertain, a place to relax, a place to enjoy.
Beauty Within
Orchard Priory • Interior design • Development • Interior build •
www.orchardpriory.co.uk 0800 043 1435
Personalised interior design & build service Interior Design & Build Project Management Kitchen Design & Installation Bathroom / wet room Design & Installation Internal Redecoration
SCENE 53
ICONIA
HOMESDALE ROAD, BROMLEY, KENT BR2 9LZ
Why rent when you can afford to buy? Talk to us today about the many fantastic schemes we have available to help make your first purchase a reality... For further information visit our Sales Information Centre: 135 Masons Hill, Bromley, Kent, BR2 9HT open Thursday to Monday 10am–5.30pm.
taylorwimpey.co.uk 0845 026 5279 SALES OFFICE NOW OPEN! *Terms and conditions apply on all offers, full details available on request or visit taylorwimpey.co.uk/deposithelp. Image shows the apartments at Iconia. March 2011.
54 SCENE
homes W
HIGGINS HITHER GREEN COMBINING STYLE WITH QUALITY AND AFFORDABILITY, THE CONTEMPORARY APARTMENTS AT HIGGINS HOMES’ PRIME DEVELOPMENT IN HITHER GREEN, SOUTH EAST LONDON, HAVE PROVED HIGHLY ATTRACTIVE TO FIRST TIME BUYERS
ith over 50 per cent of the development now sold the contemporary apartments at Higgins Homes’ prime development in Hither Green, South East London, have proved highly attractive to first time buyers. That success has been reinforced by a purchaser who knows more than most about new homes in London – because he works in housing. Gassimu Jah, 39, is a local authority tenancy advisor with a professional insight into building standards and design. He recently bought at Prime because this striking development of 60 studio, one and two bedroom
apartments in SE6 stood out in terms of build quality and value for money. As a first time buyer, Gassimu was also impressed with the customer support he received from Higgins Homes in arranging finance for his two-bedroom apartment. Gassimu comments: “The quality of design and attention to detail at Prime is excellent and the development is small enough to feel like a community. The kitchen and bedrooms are a good size so there’s plenty of room for myself and my partner and young son. Prime is also one of the few developments within inner London where the apartments have SCENE 55
separate kitchens. There’s a lot of demand for this type of layout and it was certainly very important to me.” Originally from Sierra Leone, Gassimu moved to the UK more than ten years ago and studied housing. He began looking to buy in south east London whilst living in Peckham Rye and says prices at Prime compared very favourably with other new developments in the area. Helped by the Higgins Homes financial advisor, Gassimu took out a mortgage for 90 per cent of his home, with the remaining 10 per cent available to purchase on a rent-free and interest-free basis within the next 10 years. Gassimu comments: “I’d looked at part-buy, part-rent options before but the advantage with Higgins Homes was that I could buy 90 per cent of my home, with the outstanding amount rent and interest free for 10 years. I didn’t have to use up all my savings so I had some money left for moving in. The Higgins Homes financial advisor was extremely knowledgeable and I would certainly recommend this deal to others.” Situated in a leafy, up and coming suburb close to excellent public transport links, Prime features the red and buff brickwork and gabled roofing typical of the local vernacular style of architecture. Each apartment is fitted with a stylish kitchen designed by Symphony, with a stainless steel oven and hob, integrated fridge/ freezer and washer/dryer. Bathrooms have white sanitary ware from Ideal Standard and chrome fittings. All apartments have allocated parking and access to communal bike storage. Prices at Prime start at just £109,950 for a studio and £139,950 for a one bedroom apartment.
For further information please contact the sales and marketing suite on tel: 020 8697 4761 or visit: www.higginshomes.co.uk
56 SCENE
Quality hardwood floors supplied & fitted by craftsmen
Tel: 01959 532101
DAVID BROWN WOOD FLOORS
www.dbwoodfloors.co.uk Unit 6 WarrenCourt, Knockholt Road, Halstead, TN14 7ER
FRANKLIN BELL BESPOKE AND ALTERATIONS TAILORS
TILE BOX
CERAMIC TILE
IMPORTERS & RETAILERS
VISIT OUR EXCITING SHOWROOM Featuring exclusive ranges of imported floor and wall tiles
Integrate with a Franklin Bell Suit
Beckenham Branch 138 High Street Beckenham BR3 1EA
Crystal Palace Branch 77 Westow Hill Upper Norwood SE19 1TX
020 8658 9533
020 8670 8221 www.franklinbell.co.uk
Call now for your free design consultation 365-369 Bexley Road, Northumberland Heath
Tel: 01322 332102
Free parking at rear.
www.tilebox.co.uk
SCENE  57
Foxy
Something WALKING INTO FOXES BRASSERIE CAN BE EQUATED TO EXPERIENCING THE TRUE DEFINITION OF DINING OUT; VIBRANT COLOURS SPLASH YOU ON THE INITIAL ENTRY, STEP IN FURTHER AND YOUR CERTAIN TO FIND A FRIENDLY FACE OR TWO AND, HELPFUL GUIDANCE IS ALWAYS ON HAND.
W
alking into Foxes Brasserie can be equated to experiencing the true definition of dining out; vibrant colours splash you on the initial entry, step in further and your certain to find a friendly face or two and, helpful guidance is always on hand. Set in the heart of leafy Chislehurst In a location saturated with equivalents it can be over whelming to pick just one. The same three questions arise and you’re left asking, does the restaurants aesthetics appeal to my senses? Will I be indulged with first class treatment at an affordable price? Perhaps the most important question, is the quality of food to the highest standard? After countless hours with the hosts, dining on specialty dishes the answer to all three is a resounding yes.
58 SCENE
These dishes in particular warrant the spotlight and become a prime example of the extra mile mentality that Foxes Brasserie has to offer. Presenting dishes exclusive to their customers, it is evident they hold them in high regard. The arrangement of these special appetisers was a visual treat, with dishes displaying a palette of vibrant chopped vegetables contrasted by the perfectly cooked crab fish cake on a bed of gravlax and accompanied with sweet chili sauce. A distinctive goats cheese pastry starter soon became a highlight, with a crispy coating engulfing the flavorsome cheese complimented by a beetroot garnish. Within the brief period between the appetisers and mains the hosts were consistently on hand to serve any needs. At no point in the evening did their presence feel weighty, rather a soft-spoken, approachable team of personalities elevating the experience from quiet restaurant to nonchalant dining. Not to mention a jazzy bar stocked with an expansive selection of beverages and fine wines at hand. The waiters ensured that the drinks never ran dry. The appetisers played second fiddle once the mains arrived. We were presented with two of Foxes’ specialty dishes, which were guided to us steaming and clouding the table with a fine aroma, as if stepping out from behind the curtains on Stars In Their Eyes. Fortunately the tables are generously proportioned, never forcing the classic musical chairs with the condiments and drinks. Both dishes perfectly cooked liver and bacon with a creamy mashed potato and the linguine pasta with crab, were simply delicious. To conclude our dining experience at Foxes Brasserie was faultless, their menu offers dishes to suit all palates including salads, pastas, a range of meats and fish, and traditional roasts on Sundays, complemented by a carefully selected wine list. For a relaxing meal in a superb environment with an attractive bar area to enjoy a drink head to Foxes.
For bookings call Foxes on 020 8467 2094 or visit them online www.foxeschislehurst.co.uk alternatively their doors are always open 43 High Street Chislehurst Kent BR7 5AF SCENE  59
CHISLEHURST
WEEKDAY SET MENU TWO COURSES SET LUNCH £10.95 (TUE – FRI) THREE COURSES SET LUNCH £12.95 (MON – SAT)
STARTERS CHEFS HOMEMADE SOUP OF THE DAY FIELD MUSHROOM, SERVED WITH STILTON CHEESE SAUCE PRAWN COCKTAIL ARTICHOKE RISOTTO SERVED WITH BEURRE BLANC SAUCE MAIN COURSES MEDALLION OF PORK FILLET, SERVED ON A BED OF MASH POTATO AND RED WINE SAUCE MOROCCAN CHICKEN TAGINE, COOKED IN CARROTS AND GREEN OLIVE, SERVED WITH SAFFRON RICE GRILLED SALMON FILLET, SERVED WITH RISOTTO, LEMON ZEST AND BEURRE BLANC SAUCE PENNE PASTA, COOKED IN CREAM SAUCE WITH BROCCOLI AND SMOKED SALMON DESSERT BANOFFI PIE BLACKCURRENT SORBET HOMEMADE APPLE CRUMBLE SERVED WITH CUSTARD
60 SCENE
020 8467 2094 43 High Street, Chislehurst, Kent, BR7 5AF info@foxeschislehurst.com www.foxeschislehurst.com
Mirage Diner
April Specials With so many occasions to celebrate this month don’t forget to visit Mirage Diner! Sunday 3rd April, join us
Screening the Royal Wedding Live 31 High Street, Chislehurst, BR7 5AE 020 8295 0777
in celebrating Mothering Sunday Friday 22nd April, Join us over Easter! Friday 29th Come and join us for a complimentary Glass of champagne over the Royal Wedding Weekend
open every day for lunch 12pm - 2:30pm and dinner 6:00 - 11pm 46 Plaistow Lane, Bromley BR1 3PA
0208 289 0322
info@cinnamonculture.com
SCENE  61
EXTREME Muscle
62 SCENE
T
he S281, based on the 2010 Ford Mustang, displays a premium level of design consideration, both exterior and interior, with performance to match. It builds on the Saleen tradition of offering
limited-edition, high-performance vehicles for enthusiasts who are looking for an exhilarating driving experience, with refined driveability for real-world road conditions.
“For more than 25 years the Saleen name has stood for excellence in design, engineering, and driving dynamics,” said Mike Shields, CEO of Saleen Performance Vehicles. “The new S281 is an excellent example of what those words SCENE 63
BESPOKE • KITCHENS
For more information on all of our services call us on 020 8291 5578
15 Forest Hill Business Centre, Clyde Vale, London SE23 3JF Email: info@thedovetailjoint.co.uk
BEDROOMS
www.thedovetailjoint.co.uk
STUDIES • WOOD
PA I N T
GLASS
•
STEEL
CORIAN
GRANITE
EDWARDS FLOORING LTD Complete Fitting Service
Carpet | Laminate Wood | Karndean Flooring | Vinyl
020 8249 7646
edwardsflooring@live.co.uk 57 Beckenham Lane, Shortlands, Bromley, BR2 0DN 64 SCENE
mean when we craft concepts into real cars. Our team has done a terrific job; I’m proud of them and proud to be offering this car to our customers.” The S281’s exterior design features carefully crafted sculptural detailing, with lines and forms that flow naturally and suggest suppleness, power and agility. It features an understated yet imposing grille and front fascia, and a refined treatment of the familiar Saleen extended rear fascia and trunk lid with a simple, elegant, integrated wing. “Our goal was to create the most visually enticing American sports car ever,” said David Byron, design director at Saleen Performance Vehicles. “Ford provided the perfect launching pad with the 2010 Mustang, which allowed our team to create a car that’s world class and authentically Saleen. We painstakingly toiled over every bend and break in the body and every stitch and fold in the interior.” The S281’s 4.6-liter V8 engine is equipped with a Saleen Series VI.5 twin-screw supercharger and dual-stage intercooler. It produces 485 hp and 460 lb.-ft. of torque, sent to the rear wheels through a shortthrow, five-speed manual transmission and a limited-slip differential with 3.73:1 final drive ratio. The Saleen Racecraft suspension system is new, and includes specially tuned, single-rate front and rear springs; nitrogenpressurized front struts and rear shocks with a wide range of damping adjustments; and a specially tuned front sway bar with performance pivot bushings. The interior features new, leather sport seats with Ultra-Suede inserts, highlighted by chevron-like Ultra-Suede red tabs in the seatback bolsters, and unique treatments of the gauges, steering wheel, center console and shifter. There also are contrasting Saleen logos in the door panels, and Saleen logos in the door sill plates that illuminate when the door is opened. Additional exterior highlights include unique, 20-inch, 7-spoke alloy wheels with Pirelli P-Zero Rosso high-performance tires, and Saleen S281 Supercharged fender badging.
SCENE 65
TWO STUNNING TITLES
SCENE KENT & ESSEX
SCENE SCENE SCENE KENT’S LUXURY LIFESTYLE BIBLE December 2010
Unwrapped! 12 Days of X’mas
FEBRUARY 2011
Kent’s Luxury Lifestyle Bible
Luxury Lifestyle Bible
SO
NEW THE STUNNING NEW EVOQUE HAS ARRIVED
This Month Be my
MEAT THE EXPERTS: OUR LOCAL BUTCHERS EXPERT OPINION ON CHRISTMAS DINER WARM UP THIS WINTER WITH A VISIT TO DIZZY’S DINER IN BECKENHAM DRIVING HOME FOR CHRISTMAS: WHAT DOES SANTA DRIVE AT THE END OF THE DAY £1.75
Valentine
VALENTINE’S GIFT GUIDE
50 THE
SEDUCTIVE
RANGE ROVER
AMITY ON INTERIORS KRIEDER THE MODERN KITCHEN TY-8 CHINESE CUISINE THE LOUNGE 5TH BIRTHDAY THE ENGLISH CHIMNEYPIECE RESTORING FIREPLACES KENT FIREPLACE COMPANY BUYING A FIREPLACE
Kent’s
WITH A TWIST
Underwear as Outerwear and how to wear it with style
December 2010
FASHION SMK_DEC_2010.indd 1
INTERIORS
BICKLEY RELAUNCH IN CHISLEHURST MAHARANI CONTEMPORARY INDIAN CUISINE EVEREST NOW OPEN IN BROMLEY BLUSH TEMPLES MOTHERS DAY FLOWERS GALLERY ART BY KANDINSKY
RICHEST ROADS TO LIVE IN IN KENT RIGHT NOW While the nation frets over mortgage payments and rising interest rates we reveal Kent’s most desirable Roads £1.75
Christmas is coming...
February 2010
CHRISTMAS EDITION
SCENE EXCLUSIVE:
VALENTINE’S EDITION
STUCK FOR IDEAS ON WHAT GIFTS TO GET YOUR LOVED ONE?
FORMULA 1
Mclaren unviel the brand new 600bhp MP4-12C
FEBRUARY 2011
LIFESTYLE
MOTORS
CUISINE
WHAT’S ON SCENE
1
29/11/2010 15:12
MARTIN LONG
We interview the man behind Direct Line, Churchill Insurance & now Crystal Palace Football Club.
THIS MOTHER’S DAY DO SOMETHING REALLY SPECIAL EXCLUSIVE TREATS RIDING THE ROYAL SCOTSMAN TO WATCHING THE OPERA AT ROYAL ALBERT HALL
MAMMA MIA SEVENTIES FLORALS ARE BACK IN FASHION THIS SPRING
SCENE 1
SMK_FEB_2011.indd 1
24/01/2011 23:20
SCENE 1
SMK_MAR_2011.indd 1
21/02/2011 16:23
Wishing all our readers a A VERY HAPPY EASTER Give your loved one the ultimate Easter gift A years FREE subscription to SCENE Magazine Name:................................................................................................ Mr/Mrs/Miss:........................ Address:...................................................................................................... Postcode:....................... Email:............................................................................................................................................ Phone:........................................................... (PLEASE COMPLETE ALL SECTIONS IN CAPITALS) Please send in a stamped addressed envelope to Subscriptions, SCENE Publishing, Albert Buildings, 49 Queen Victoria Street, London, EC4N 4SA Your subscription contract will be fulfilled by SCENE Publishing Limited, a company registered in England and Wales under registered number 07125177 whose registered office is at SCENE Publishing Ltd, Albert Buildings, 49 Queen Victoria Street, London, EC4N 4SA. Terms & Conditions apply. Subscrition applies to London Borough of Bromley Addresses only. Any subscriptions outside of the London Borough of Bromley will require a payment of £24.00 payment for a years postage. Please see the webite for more details www.scenemagazines.com. SCENE Publishing Ltd reserves the right to refuse this offer with no justification.
66 SCENE
Beckenham Toys
0208 650 5355 www.beckenhamtoys.co.uk beckenhamtoys@hotmail.com 226 High Street, Beckenham, BR3 1EN
Beckenham Toys SCENE  67
68 SCENE