Absolutely Buckinghamshire April 2021 by ABSOLUTELY Magazines

BUCKINGHAMSHIRE

Buckinghamshire APRIL 2021 / £3.95

TOP DRAW Tips on how to buy ﬁne art

Lessons

APRIL 2021

FROM A PANDEMIC

POMP & CEREMONY

Reﬂecting on a school year like no other at LVS Ascot

Introducing the High Sheriff of Buckinghamshire

Melin d a M E S SENGER On dealing with fame, turning 50 in lockdown and her love for the county

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ABSOLUTELY

Contents APRIL 2021

C U LT U R E 10 ABSOLUTELY LOVES

FA S H I O N 40 ECO FASHION

14 WHAT'S ON

44 THE SHOOT

16 MELINDA MESSENGER

INTERIORS 58 HOME INSPIRATION

10 things we’re coveting this month

Aspiga's founder on sustainability

Your diary for April

On life in lockdown

20 HIGH SHERIFF OF BUCKS Everything you need to know

FOOD & DRINK 24 KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL News from the industry

30 RECIPES Spanish specials from Brindisa

37 BOX FRESH

The best meals, delivered

Stella McCartney's new looks

News and trends

65 THE TREND

The best rugs available right now

68 PATTERN CUTS

Ottoline's fabulous fabrics

LUXE 79 HOW TO INVEST In fine art

81 PATEK PHILIPPE A classic reimagined

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N The online guide to inspirational London living that helps you stay one step ahead of the crowd and gives you the chance to win exclusive prizes.

O N T H E C OV E R Melinda Messenger

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EDITOR MARK KEBBLE DIGITAL EDITOR ABBIE SCHOFIELD ART DIRECTOR PAWEL KUBA SENIOR DESIGNER MIKE ROBERTS MID-WEIGHT DESIGNER REBECCA NOONAN MAGAZINE MANAGER ABIGAIL GARDNER MEDIA CONSULTANTS STELLA ADAMS, ANABELA KOLECI BRAND PARTNERSHIPS MANAGER NAVINDER LALL MARKETING MANAGER LUCIE PEARCE FINANCIAL DIRECTOR JERRIE KOLECI CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER ALEXANDRA HVID DIRECTORS CRAIG DAVIES, LEAH DAY, JAMES FUSCHILLO NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ALEXANDRA HUNTER MANAGING DIRECTOR SHERIF SHALTOUT

For editorial enquiries please email: mark@zest-media.com For advertising enquiries please call 07977 195732 or email: abi@zest-media.com

Studio G06, Wenlock Studios, 50-52 Wharf Road, London N1 7EU; 020 7704 0588 zest.london Zest Media Publications Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Zest Media Publications Ltd. take no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved. Social icon

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gingham colourways.

Editor’s

LETTER ABSOLUTELY’S April issue highlights

Ottoline

On why life at 50 is wonderful

4 Mulberry

A new colourway for 2021: Cloud Blue.

Mark Kebble

Lessons with the hellraiserturned-domestic cook

Melinda Messenger

t feels like we have all gone through a period of reflection and – in many cases – change over the past year. I remember 23 March, 2020, well, mainly because it was my birthday and a plan to head out to a local restaurant was hastily rearranged when Boris Johnson locked us all down. As fate would have it, I am writing this exactly a year later and we are still in lockdown (although, thankfully, shards of light are appearing on the horizon). Despite the fact we all haven’t been able to get out much, it’s still been mightily impressive to see some of the wonderful things people have been able to do. It’s not a reinvention as such, but it was great to hear about the psychology work our cover star Melinda Messenger now does – she’s certainly one to talk to if you need a boost. I do know plenty of people who have reinvented themselves, and for me this issue marks a new direction in my career too by joining the Absolutely team. It’s certainly meant that, this year, it feels more like a happy birthday. I hope you enjoy the issue.

We are obsessed with these beautiful swirls, stripes and florals.

Marco Pierre White

MARK KEBBLE EDITOR

3 Easter

Our favourite treats? No question. Laduree's beautiful mini eggs.

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Wish LIST 10 things we Absolutely love COMPILED BY

ABBIE SCHOFIELD

SILK SHADES Founded on the principles of a capsule wardrobe and 'cost per wear', Silked London's collection consists of simple yet luxurious pieces you will reach for time and time again. Each of the eight 100% silk designs are available in three colours: Sapphire, Oyster and Onyx. Blouse £350, skirt £220 silkedlondon.com

W R A P PA R T Y Aspiga's Katie wrap dress is made with silky viscose satin that is biodegradable and originates from tree pulp. As well as this cheerful blue, it's available in green and pink — can we justify buying all three? £135 aspiga.com

EDITOR’S PICK

FEELING BLUE

MADE TO L A ST

This new fresh and uplifting scent by Jo Loves has notes of vetiver, patchouli and cedarwood, with a limited number of beautiful bottles designed by artist Natasha Murray. £115 joloves.com

Loom & Last's Aegean Blue French Linen Bedding is made from high quality ﬂax plants in Normandy. Not only does this use significantly less water than other methods but it creates the longest, smoothest fibres possible. £275 loomandlast.co.uk

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ABSOLUTELY • LOVES

LOV E T H E WO R L D Sustainable fibres will make up 30% of Desigual's designs by 2021, and their Love the World collection is made from recycled and eco-friendly materials. desigual.com

FULL CIRCLE This Old Thing London has the most incredible collection of pre-loved luxury jewellery from designers such as Chanel, Hermès and Louis Vuitton. You can shop via a virtual appointment with founder Charlotte Rogers. thisoldthinglondon.com

BAG F O R L I F E Mulberry has launched a new handbag, the Iris Hobo. Combining a timeless silhouette with a nod to the label's early '70s designs, this bag is the more relaxed version of the original Iris. £1,195 mulberry.com

S TAY COOL Say goodbye to lukewarm picnic drinks thanks to Partner in Wine's chic collection of bottles and tumblers. Founded last summer by wine enthusiast Lucy Hitchcock, these summer essentials will keep your wine cold for up to 24 hours. From £20, partnerinwine.co.uk

HOME G R OW N Conscious knitwear brand Herd uses the ﬂeece of Bluefaced Leicester sheep, with all of their cosy garments made in Yorkshire and Lancashire. herdwear.co

SLIPPED UP This cami night dress is the Silk Toi Mon Amour negligée by Aubade. Flattering and comfortable, it's made from silk covered with a jaquard lace motif and a sheer lace panel at the bottom. £189 amelies-follies.co.uk

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ARCHITECTURAL STUDIO CREATE > DELIVER > BUILD

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C U LT U R E

MATHIEU JULIEN, DEMI F PORTE METAL, 2020, COURTESY OF MATHIEU JULIEN AND SAATCHI YATES

What's on 14 • Melinda Messenger 16 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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The Agenda

T H E L AT E S T H O T T E S T H A P P E N I N G S

F I L M

Luna Drive In Cinema From 12 April BLUEWATER, BLENHEIM PALACE , KNEBWORTH HOUSE This Covid-safe cinema experience is back for spring with a movie roster including all the nostalgic favourites, from Legally Blonde to Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. The technology is top-notch thanks to HD screens and in-car digital sound, plus there’s click & collect food and drink to munch while you watch. lunadriveincinema.com

HARBOUR PORPOISE, MISHA MILOVANOVICH, 2021

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The Shape of Colour U NTI L 9 MAY • D E L L AS P OSA GALLERY

Misha Milovanovich’s ﬁrst solo exhibition, The Shape of Colour, showcases a series of steel sculptures transformed into mesmerising ﬂuid-looking colourful forms. Abstract, surreal and striking, the Belgrade-born artist’s work can be viewed online before the gallery reopens. 2A Bathurst Street, W2 2SD dellasposa.com

TO U R

Spring Colour in the Gardens 3 April WA D D E S D O N Join Mike Buffin, head of gardens, for a live tour of Waddesdon’s spring gardens and colourful bulb displays. The focus of the tour will be the magniﬁcent display of 32,500 tulips, planted in the formal bedding around the Aviary. waddesdon.org.uk

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CULTURE • TALKING TOPICS

ART

Mischief and Misadventure Various dates until 27 May O L D R OYA L N AVA L C O L L E G E In anticipation of the physical exhibition Mischief and Misadventure, opening in May, illustrator Nick Ellwood is leading online drawing workshops for adults and children. Alternatively, those who visit the Old Royal Naval College in person can explore the beautiful Greenwich grounds with a guided tour. King William Walk, SE10 9NN ornc.org

PRES S

PL AY Plug in and listen to a podcast

SCIENCE THE INFINITE M O N K E Y C AG E Hosted by scientists Brian Cox and Robin Ince, this podcast looks at everyday aspects of life, as well as more curious phenomena, through a scientific lens. Episodes so far include The Science of Cooking and A History of Rock. Listen on BBC Sounds

MU S I C

LIVE IN LONDON

This Month’s Must See

Until 18 April ONLINE Live in London, a series of concerts performed at the Hippodrome Casino London in December 2020, will be available to stream online this month. The line-up includes musical theatre stars, musicians and comedians, from the cast of Rock of Ages to Russian violinist Yury Revich. fw-live.com

NATURE

A LLEZ L A FR A NCE

U NTIL 15 MAY • SAATCHI YATE S

aking its title from the French football chant, Allez La France brings together the work of four painters, Jin Angdoo, Mathieu Julien, Hams Klemens, and Kevin Pinsembert, to consider the legacy of the painting tradition in France. The exhibition can be seen online until the gallery opens to the public on 12 April. 6 Cork Street, W1J 3NX saatchiyates.com

N AT I O N A L T R U S T P O D C A S T Described as an ‘audio adventure through some of the UK’s greatest landscapes’, episodes of this gentle podcast are between 10 and 20 minutes long and each explore a different walk, garden, home or natural wonder. Listen on all major streaming services

BOOKS BROCCOLI BOOK CLUB During this virtual book club, journalist Diyora Shadijanova and a guest discuss thought-provoking and boundary-pushing books, from The Good Immigrant by Nikesh Shukla to Cambridge Analytica whistleblower Christopher Wylie’s memoir. Listen on all major streaming services

MATHIEU JULIEN ROUGE CAMAIEU, 2020

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“As I get older life tends to go in the direction that I want it to”

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CULTURE • INTERVIEW

Happy

DAYS She may have once been dubbed the “Girl of the Millennium”, but Berkshire’s Melinda Messenger says she couldn’t be more content than she is now By MARK KEBBLE

elinda Messenger has had a quarter of a century to get used to people having opinions of her. As my first interviewee as editor of this magazine, I excitedly told my Absolutely colleagues who would be gracing the front cover. “Really?” replied one quizzically. “The page 3 girl?” Yes, that’s correct, but as Messenger’s career has developed so too has she evolved. In fact, the vast majority of this interview is spent talking about her current role as a psychotherapist – and judging by the mood I was left in post-interview, she is very good at it. “As young as seven I remember thinking I wanted to be a psychiatrist,” she reveals. “I have always been interested in healing, well-being, and what it is to be human.” When we talk, it’s almost a year to the day when the UK went into its first lockdown and, for many, it has been a real struggle. Messenger admits that she

has actually enjoyed having the chance to spend more time at her Berkshire home with her children – Morgan, Flynn and Evie – doing things like “gardening, cooking, painting, reading, all those things I normally have to squeeze in at some point”, but is only too aware others are not so lucky. “The psychological impact on people is really difficult to see, and then the financial impact of people not being able to work and losing their incomes is a struggle to witness,” she laments. “I can’t fully enjoy something when I know other people are having a real tough time.” Despite this, Messenger oozes positivity and I ask if her interest in psychotherapy has made what we have all gone through a little easier. “Oh for sure,” she says. “It has been an absolute blessing just to have an understanding. Psychotherapy has definitely given me a more grounded place to be in.” Does this mean we won’t be seeing so much of her on our televisions? “No, psychotherapy will be alongside my TV and media work. Day to day I see clients,

and I have been doing that for the past four years. I don’t look at it as work – it’s more of a vocation really. It inspires and surprises me. It doesn’t feel like I am going to work.” Reflecting on her TV career to date, Messenger laughs when she recounts what she has worked on. “I have done so many different types of TV, I think I have done them all, from reality shows to game shows and talk shows.” Do any stand out for her? “That would be Cowboy Builders,” she says, which ran for eight series. “That was a great show to be a part of. It was people’s real lives and it was transformative – I really like that kind of work.” It’s probably why she has bought and renovated some 14 houses (“It could be more,” she admits with a chuckle) around the UK, including a fair few during her 16 or so years in Berkshire. “This is my fourth move in the county,” she clarifies. “Things for me seem to be centred around transformation. I like seeing that process of taking something old and renovating it. I really enjoy the creative process.” A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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CULTURE • INTERVIEW THE RIVER THAMES FLOWING THROUGH PANGBOURNE

Considering the length of time she has lived in these parts, she must have a penchant for all things Berkshire. “I love it!” she exclaims. “It’s so beautiful. I love the fact there is so much woodland and so much water. Wherever you go you are not far from a forest, or lakes and canals, and there are lots of nature reserves.” It’s Berkshire house number four that Messenger turned 50 in during lockdown, but you genuinely get the impression this is just fine by her. “I feel great, no different really,” she says. “Age is such a funny concept. You notice how you change over long periods of time, but from one day to the next it’s no different. What I reflect on with getting older is that life tends to go in the direction I want it to and I feel happier with how things are. Some people say they wish they were 10 or 20 years younger, but I personally would never go back in time. I am glad where I am at.” Conversation turns to dating and Messenger is just as at ease talking about this aspect of her life. She says she is considering joining Sara Eden Introductions, a professional matchmaking agency based in Windsor. “I have got friends who met their partners through

“The biggest challenge was dealing with thousands of people having an opinion about me”

STERLING IMAGES

THE TOWN SIGN AT PANGBOURNE

dating sites and it’s really worked out. Historically, I would have never used a dating agency, it’s much nicer to be natural and organic, but my opinion has changed over the years.” Given the fact she is in the public eye, perhaps having potential introductions vetted is a bonus? “It is quite a clever way of doing things because you are already filtering towards people you might be suited to.” It’s yet another strand to what appears to be a busy life, but Messenger has been used to being in demand since the late 1990s. Putting on her psychiatrist’s hat, what advice would she offer her younger self at a time when magazines and newspapers were determined to follow her every move? “Good question,” she says after a brief pause. “I would say to trust my instincts and put that before pleasing other people. That was always one of my biggest challenges.” Did she enjoy that period of her life? “Some of it was wonderful and some of it was pretty awful,” she openly answers. “It was such a huge psychological shift that I had to get my head around. Nothing can quite prepare you for that. The biggest challenge was suddenly dealing with hundreds and thousands of people having an opinion about me. I realised that I just had to find a way to get through it. It either crushes you or you come out stronger.” There’s no doubt which side Melinda Messenger came out on.

Melinda Messenger’s Berksh ire H OT S P OT S

LIFE ALONG THE KENNET & AVON CANAL

IAN FLINT

THE CAFE AT BUCKLEBURY FARM PARK

PA N G B O U R N E “I love that you have the River Thames flowing through it. There are lots of beautiful walks there, it’s a pretty little village with interesting houses.” • B U C K L E B U RY “I love this place for its woodland. Bucklebury Farm Park was one of my favourite places when the kids were little.” • K E N N E T & AVO N CA N A L “I really like all the little spots along the canal. I lived along there for some time. Everything I love is really focused around nature.” • S H OWCA S E C I N E M A , WINNERSH “I have really missed going to the cinema. We would always go to this one in Winnersh because it’s really comfortable. I have also missed all the little cafes, and I miss going for a nice pub meal!”

Melinda Messenger is an ambassador for The London Skin Clinic (the-london-skin-clinic.co.uk), visit sara-eden.co.uk for more on Sara Eden, and her Instagram is @melinda.j.messenger A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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RONALD IAN SMILES

Who is the High Sheriff?

he Office of High Sheriff is an independent non-political royal appointment for a single year. The origins of the office date back to Saxon times, when the ‘Shire Reeve’ was responsible to the king for the maintenance of law and order within the shire, or county, and for the collection and return of taxes due to the Crown. Today, there are 55 High Sheriffs serving the counties of England and Wales each year. Whilst the duties of the role have evolved over time, supporting the Crown and the judiciary remain central elements of the role today. In addition, High Sheriffs actively lend support and encouragement to crime prevention agencies, the emergency services and to the voluntary sector. In recent years High Sheriffs in many parts of England and Wales have been particularly active in encouraging crime reduction initiatives, especially amongst young people. Many High Sheriffs also assist Community Foundations and local charities working with vulnerable and other people both in endorsing and helping to raise the profile of their valuable work. High Sheriffs receive no remuneration, and no part of the expense of a High Sheriff’s year falls on the public purse. Find out more at highsheriffs.com

Get to know…

GEORGE ANSON HIGH SHERIFF OF BUCKINGHAMSHIRE

How excited are you about becoming the High Sheriff of Buckinghamshire? It is a great honour and a privilege to be selected as the next High Sheriff of Buckinghamshire. I am also a little bit nervous! There is a long list of distinguished predecessors and I hope I can live up to expectations – by my calculations, I am the 460th High Sheriff of Buckinghamshire. Can you explain the process of how you are elected? Each county has a Nominations Panel to consider and select appropriate candidates for future High Sheriffs. Those who accept the invitation are then recorded by The Queen’s Remembrancer, and their name is read out at a Nomination Ceremony held at The Royal Courts of Justice in London each November.

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PAWEL PIOTR

CULTURE • PROFILE

The appointment of the upcoming High Sheriff in England and Wales takes place each year usually in March at the Pricking Ceremony. Her Majesty The Queen meets with The Privy Council to “prick” each name written on vellum with a bodkin to confirm the appointment. This dates back to the time of Henry VII.

THE BEAUTY OF THE CHILTERNS

Why do you want to take on the role? I retired from a successful 35-year career working in the private equity industry in 2017. I am a great believer in giving back to society, and this is a perfect opportunity for me to do so.

“I love the diversity and variety you encounter in Buckinghamshire. There is so much to see and enjoy”

Once you are inaugurated, what happens next? From 26 March, which is the date of my Declaration Ceremony, I will be the ceremonial head of Law and Order in the county, and it feels only right to provide support to the police, the judiciary, the prison services and other law enforcement agencies, and the emergency services in the upcoming year. Once the lockdown restrictions are eased, I hope to visit each of these essential service providers in person to commend their activities during what has been a very trying year for everyone.

What is your favourite thing about the county? The diversity and variety that you encounter. It is a long thin county stretching from Iver in the South all the way up to Olney in the North. The countryside gently rolls through the Chilterns as you head further north, and reaches up through Milton Keynes, which is a vibrant and bustling city. There is so much for you to see and enjoy.

How long have you lived in the area and where exactly do you reside? Our family have lived in Buckinghamshire for 31 years; the last 21 years have been at Lilies in Weedon, which is just north of Aylesbury. THE RECENTLY RENOVATED MK GALLERY

ANDY WARNER

Have there been any outdoor spots that have been a godsend during lockdown? Obviously we have been required to “stay local” during the recent extended lockdown, but Stowe Park and Waddesdon Manor are two destinations that are a delight to visit and get a breath of fresh air. Pre-pandemic – and hopefully once again in the not too distant future – where are your favourite local haunts? Our village pub, The Five Elms, has a very cosy and welcoming ambience

JOHAN DEHLIN

WADDESDON MANOR HOUSE AND GARDENS IN BUCKINGHAMSHIRE

GEORGE ANSON LOVES THE MK GALLERY

with a hearty menu and good beers. In 2019 the MK Gallery underwent major investment and renovation, and will be a cultural destination for many years to come. In Aylesbury, a similar renovation is underway at the Bucks County Museum, which has a wealth of history about Buckinghamshire for all the family to enjoy. Near High Wycombe is E J Churchill, which has a marvellous range of country and outdoor apparel. Is there one thing in particular you are looking forward to once everything opens up again? I have been a golfer since I was 13-yearsold, and the last three months have been really hard while the courses are closed. I am really looking forward to teeing it up again on 30 March! Finally, do you have a local secret or any interesting stories to tell? I am the fourth High Sheriff of Buckinghamshire to live in Weedon during their term of office. I am the third High Sheriff to have lived at Lilies (our home), the previous being Edward Nugent (1804 & 1805) and Henry Cazenove (1880). A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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FOOD & DRINK

TASTE OF PARADISE PARADISE

Hōtal Paradise is one of the brilliant new meal kits the Absolutely team have the pleasure of trying on p.37. Available for nationwide delivery via Dishpatch, the contemporary Sri Lankan dishes arrive ready to heat — and then eat! dishpatch.co.uk

Food notes 24 • Recipes 30 • Meal kits 37 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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WHAT TO DRINK

GRAPE news Wine recommendations for the month

TASTING NOTES

The latest food news and most exciting openings this month By ABBIE SCHOFIELD

By GRAPE PRESS

Au Bon Climat 2016 “Isabelle” Pinot Noir Made by the “bad boy” of California, Jim Clendenen, this wine is heavily inﬂuenced by Burgundian winemaking. It’s lively, bright, fresh, juicy and utterly glorious; blended from a number of prime sites across California, before being gently aged in old French oak.

Meursault 2015 Henri Boillot For many, Meursault is the epitome of Chardonnay, and this 5th generation producer is a prime example as to why. Rolling baked apple, sweet spice and lemon zesty freshness play across your palate. Luscious, but fresh, it complements Yum Sa's Penang pie perfectly.

Elysium Black Muscat 2017, Andrew Quady Half Bottle Elysium is Greek for ‘heaven’, which is exactly what this wine tastes like with the sweet and sour notes of a Kokum cheesecake. This wine is all ripe, juicy forest fruits with luscious blackberry sweetness and a slight hint of peppery-spice. An undiscovered gem, elevating any desert to divine status. YUM SA 3 Plaza Gardens, 88 Upper Richmond Road, Putney, SW15 2DT

yum-sa.com

Let's brunch YUM SA

Yum Sa's weekend Champagne brunch party is a ﬁvecourse feast complete with Veuve Clicquot bubbly and a retro soundtrack. Whether you sit inside their stylish restaurant or al fresco, expect delicious, fresh Thai dishes such as steamed sea bass wrapped in banana leaves and their popular sticky tamarind-rubbed chicken, plus curries, Pad Thai and dim sum. If you're not a Champagne fan, other drinks are available. yum-sa.com

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FOOD & DRINK• NOTES

TOP PICKS Delicious deliveries to enjoy this Easter

WORK OF ART B L AC K L O C K

Park life

Blacklock are offering a traditional lamb roast for Easter Sunday, featuring 28day aged lamb rump with all the trimmings, plus rhubarb cheesecake for dessert. £56 shop.theblacklock.com

BOCCA DI LUPO

ROSEWOOD AT HOME

Rosewood London’s at-home delivery offering includes showstopping pies from Holborn Dining Room, elegant high tea from Mirror Room and delicious bottled cocktails from Scarfes Bar. The art afternoon tea is a particular highlight, inspired by the upcoming Kusama exhibition at the Tate Modern. rosewoodhotels.com

Now that picnics are allowed, Bocca di Lupo’s hamper of Italian essentials is perfect for an al fresco feast. The picnic box contains ﬂatbreads, prosciutto, salami, ricotta, grilled aubergines, chocolate cake, Prosecco and more. They’ve thought of everything, with eco-friendly plates, napkins and cutlery included too. boccadilupoathome.com

MELROSE & MORGAN Easter gift hampers from the fabulous grocer Melrose & Morgan are brimming with goodies, from a Simnel loaf cake and bunny-shaped gingerbreads to Rococo chocolate quail’s eggs. From £60 melroseandmorgan.com

G R E AT OUTDOORS THE HONEST Y GROUP

Time for tea T WO SPOONS

Now, we like our mid-afternoon cup of tea as much as the next person, but for those behind Buckinghamshire-based Two Spoons, tea is quite simply a passion. Mark Lawson and Giles Oakley tasted over a million cups of tea during their time at Tetley, and now have brewed their own little brand during lockdown, including the unique Bucks Blend. Stick the kettle on. twospoons.co.uk

P H I L I P WA R R E N Order a slow-roast shoulder of Cornish lamb from Philip Warren butchers online for a foolproof main dish. “It’s easy to carve and stays beautifully crisp on the outside while remaining moist” says Warren. philipwarrenbutchers.co.uk

The Crown & Garter pub in Inkpen will open for outdoor service on 12 April, with a nice sheltered space in case the weather isn’t behaving. They will be running a full dining menu as well as more items that are easy to eat outside. The coffee shop next door to the pub will also open for takeaway on 1 April. honestygroup.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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25/03/2021 11:56

Finest Local drinks delivered

Open: online 24/7 Thursdays: 5pm – 8pm Saturdays: 10am – 5pm 01296 792 958 beerginvino.com

We curate Virtual & Private Tastings - Corporate Gifts - Happy Hour Boxes- Wedding Drinks- Events

We are a family business and live in the 15th-century market town of Thame, Oxfordshire and The Hatchery, our shop and tasting venue is on Bradmoor Farm, where you can spend a wonderful few hours outside amongst independent retailers & producers to share, taste and enjoy some family time together.

WHAT WE OFFER • We bring the best of local and provincial producers across craft beers, artisan gins and English & emerging wine producers from across the globe and wine travels. • Over 100 craft beers to choose- from Arbor, Chiltern, Deya, Rebellion to Wiper &True to name but a few • Love a G&T- then we have 100 local and regional gins that show what loving small distillers and tonics to match. Whether that’s 6 o’clock, Keeprs, Salcombe, Skywave or Old Amersham we have a dream gin for you. • Thinking Wine - well we have some mouthwatering English wines, sparklings from our very own Bucks/Berkshire • Liking a Malbec, Picpoul, Pinot Noir, Albarino, Sancerre or Sauvignon Blanc- then we have some of the ﬁnest emerging winemakers in the world at your doorstep.

Easter Oﬀer. Buy any 50cl or 70cl gin and receive free postage. UK & Mainland only. Use code FREEPOSTGIN at beerginvino.com

25/03/2021 11:58

FOOD & DRINK • NOTES

DRINKS CABINET

The latest tipples to tempt your taste buds By ABBIE SCHOFIELD

TOP 4

THAT ’S THE SPIRIT D I C TA D O R R U M The Parra family in Colombia have distilled Dictador Rum for three generations, and their new collaboration with Lalique houses a unique blend of 1976 vintages in spectacular crystal carafes. Just 300 uniquely designed bottles are available worldwide.

dictador.com

Tropical TIPPLE SPIRITED COCONUT The Spirited Union Distillery in Amsterdam is the world’s first botanical rum distillery. Its new release, Spirited Coconut, unites tropical Belizean rum with sun-dried organic coconut flakes infused with Madagascan vanilla and Peruvian cacao. £27.50, spirited-union.com

MULTIPLE CHOICE BEERGINVINO BeerGinVino are a family-owned shop and online retailer in Haddenham that brings together the finest local and provincial producers. Expect 100-plus craft beers, 100-plus artisan gins, and 80-plus English wines and emerging global wines.

Picnic Wines

The best summer wines to enjoy outdoors this month By SHOP CUVÈE

pecialising in natural wine, Shop Cuvée in north London will be delivering drinks to picnickers in Clissold Park and Highbury Fields, with more locations announced soon. Here are co-owner Brodie Meah's favourite wines for a picnic in the park. Le Coste, Pizzicante Bianco, Procanico, Moscato (£23.50) is a Pet Nat built for summer. It has sherbet acidity with a huge aroma of pithy citrus, perfect to pop in the garden with friends. Cantina Giardino, Volpe Rosa, Coda di Volpe (£30.50) is an elegant rosato that has had a facelift this year with a fancy new label, making it the perfect gift. It also fits the bill as something to drink before heading out for a summer evening. Weingut Pitneur, Perfect Day, Chardonnay Blend (£22.50) is an orange wine that maintains freshness and acidity, perfect for a day of drinking wine (the clue is in the name!). It’s made with a blend of local varieties all macerated on the skins separately and blended together before bottling. The key is the chardonnay juice sees no skin contact, which adds a real vibrant, zippy acidity to the wine. Domaine Durrmann, Zegwur, Gewurztraminer (£22.50) takes all the floral aromatics of Gewurztraminer, but ferments it to dryness while maintaining a wicked acidity. It's an ultra lively, energetic wine that just jumps out of the glass. It has no sulfur additions, which really allows the wine to sing.

shopcuvee.com

01296 792958, beerginvino.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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FOOD & DRINK • EASTER HARVEY NICHOLS Chocolate Scotch egg, £8.95 harveynichols.com

EDITOR’S PICK

MONTEZUMA Orloff milk chocolate speckled hen, £9.50 xxxxxxxxxxx.com

HIP Oat milk Easter egg, £12.50 hipchocolate.com

LADUREE X CHAPON

PIERRE MARCOLINI

Mini praline Easter eggs gift box, £32 laduree.co.uk

Milk chocolate rabbit, £9.90 marcolini.com

DOISY & DAM Dark chocolate Easter bundle, £14 doisyanddam.com

JOE & SEPH'S Chocolate popcorn Easter Egg, £18.95 harveynichols.com

EGG HUNT

GAVA Swedish Aggs, from £8 gavagifting.co.uk

All the best Easter eggs, chocolates and treats By A B B I E S C H O F I E L D

PLAY IN CHOC Sir rabbits gift set, £15 playinchoc.com

NIEDEREGGER PAUL Spring sharer box, £26.95 paul-uk.com

ALLPRESS

Marzipan solid figures, £4.99 chocolatesdirect.co.uk

Chocolate Easter Eggs By Bennetts Of Mangawhai, £15 allpressespresso.com

BISCUITEERS ROCOCO XXXXXXX xxxxxxxxx; xxxxxxxxx.com

A Fluffle of Bunnies Nibble Bag, £13.50 rococochocolates.com

Easter egg biscuit tin, £35 biscuiteers.com

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24/03/2021 10:48

Taste of

SPAIN Recipes from Brindisa, the home of Spanish food in the UK

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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24/03/2021 10:50

FOOD & DRINK • RECIPES

Chickpeas Catalan-style with saffron and almond picada Serves 6

An economical, fortifying chickpea dish which combines many flavours, adapted from a Catalan book of traditional recipes called La Cuina que torna.

INGREDIENTS • 600g Perello pedrosillano jarred, cooked chickpeas • 10g bicarbonate of soda (if using dried chickpeas) • 125ml Brindisa Arbequina olive oil • 2 onions, finely chopped • 10 ripe medium tomatoes, grated • OR 300g Brindisa Sofrito tomato and onion sauce • 50g Brindisa blanched almonds, chopped • 10 threads of Brindisa saffron, soaked • a big handful of parsley • 4 cloves of garlic, peeled • sea salt and freshly ground black pepper Note: The tomato flavour in this dish should be present, but not overwhelming; however, it does rely on sweet, ripe, seasonal tomatoes, or cherry tomatoes. If you don’t feel you are getting enough flavour from your tomatoes, you could add a jar of bought sofrito de tomate

METHOD Heat the oil in a heavy-based pan, add the onions and cook very gently for about 20 minutes, until translucent and sweet. 2 While these are cooking, with a pestle and mortar, pound the chopped almonds with the saffron, parsley and garlic. Blend with another 50ml of the reserved cooking liquid (or water if using jarred chickpeas), and put aside. 3 Add the tomatoes and cook for a further 20 minutes. If you are using sofrito instead of fresh tomatoes, then you only need to stir the sofrito sauce through and warm it. 4 Add the cooked chickpeas together with liquid from the jar, topped up if necessary with water, and heat through. 5 Then add your ground almonds, saffron, parsley and garlic to the pan of chickpeas and sauce. Stir this in well to add depth of flavour to the dish, taste and season. 1

Finger-on-thePulses Salad Serves 4

A hearty salad of pulses and pasta, with a lovely depth of flavour from smokey piquillo peppers, moscatel vinegar and walnuts.

INGREDIENTS • 100g egg-free penne pasta • 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil • tbsp moscatel vinegar • 1/2 tsp salt • 50g Piquillo pepper strips, very finely chopped • tbsp finely chopped parsley • 350g butter beans, rinsed and well drained • 350g small chickpeas, rinsed and well drained • 50g walnuts, chopped • 350g large green “Castellana” lentils

rinsed and well drained • lemons wedges for serving

METHOD 1 Cook the pasta for 7 minutes. Rinse and drain well. 2 In a large mixing bowl whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice and salt. Stir in the piquillo peppers and parsley. 3 Add the beans, chickpeas and walnuts and stir well to coat. 4 Gently fold in the lentils. 5 Toss gently before serving with lemon wedges. 6 Use the remaining half jars of leftover beans to make a variation of our Winter Warmer Bean Pot recipe. 7 If you wanted to experiment with cooking the pulses yourself from dry, you could do so, to add more texture or to try different combinations. You can cook any varietal you like from dry, e.g. pardina lentils, white kidney beans or castellano chickpeas, but it’s quite a fiddle to cook all three types from dry at once, so this recipe uses prepared pulses.

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R.S. TROUTT & CO FINE ENGLISH BUTCHERS Our passion is quality meats & service

So why use a traditional butcher instead of a supermarket? Richard explains why customers repeatedly use RS Troutt & Co. “Customers like to select their meat and to have it butchered in front of them. We can give them EXACTLY what they want from single portion to large joint for that special occasion” • 28 day dry aged beef

• Fresh home cooked meals

• Free range additive free chickens

• Rolled belly pork stuffed with

• Free range pork and English lamb

• Selection of cheeses

• Home-made sausages and burgers • Home cured dry aged bacon

haggis and blackpudding

WE ARE NOW SERVING HOT AND COLD FOOD ALL DAY X

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25/03/2021 12:39

FOOD & DRINK • RECIPES

Spanish White Bean and Chickpea Burgers Serves 5

Vegan burgers made with the creamiest of beans and chickpeas. Delicious served with a piquant green guindilla chilli on the side and a cold beer.

INGREDIENTS • 100g Fritada, pepper and tomato sauce • 1 plump clove garlic, finely grated • 1 tsp ground cumin • 1 tsp salt • 1/4 tsp sugar • 1/8 tsp black pepper • 700g large chickpeas, rinsed and thoroughly drained

• 700g medium white beans, rinsed and thoroughly drained • 200g cooked round grain rice • 100g grated sweet potato • 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil plus extra for frying • 2 spring onions - green part only, finely chopped • 75g panko breadcrumbs • to accompany - guindilla hot green chillies

METHOD 1 Firstly, remember to pre-cook your round grain rice to make 200g of cooked rice (you will need approximately 60g of raw rice to boil). Follow the cooking instructions on the packet, you may need approx. 20 minutes to do this. 2 In a small pan over low heat simmer the fritada until it reduces by 2/3 to about 2 tbsp, stirring as it reduces (take care as it may spatter). This will take 10-15 mins. 3 Remove from the heat and stir in the garlic, cumin, salt, sugar and

pepper. Transfer to a large mixing bowl and leave for a moment to cool. 4 Add the remaining ingredients, except breadcrumbs, and stir well to combine. 5 Transfer half the mixture to a food processor. Pulse to a fairly smooth paste. Return this smooth half to the mixing bowl, add the breadcrumbs and combine everything well. 6 Refrigerate until thoroughly chilled, approx. 2 hours. 7 Place a large frying pan over moderate heat. Add a little olive oil. Shape approximately 10 burgers (return any you don’t wish to cook yet to the fridge or freezer to enjoy another time). 8 Fry until a rich golden brown, about 5 minutes per side. Turn gently as they may be crumbly. 9 Serve with Perelló guindilla hot green chillies. 10 If you wanted you could modify the recipe to make approx. 5-6 larger patties, rather than the 10 small ones. They could be served on their own or with buns. brindisa.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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24/03/2021 10:51

KITCHEN GURU Absolutely signs up for Marco Pierre White’s new online cookery course By PENDLE HARTE P h o t o g r a p h y b y R I C H A R D YO U N G

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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FOOOD & DRINK • COOKING

Marco’s

Top 5 essentials KNIFE

I use one knife for almost every recipe, and that is all you will need. I recommend investing in a good quality chef’s knife and a small ‘office’ knife for the more fiddly jobs. Keep them clean and keep them sharp and they will be the only knives you will ever need. •

BOILED POTATOES WITH BUTTER

C H O P P I N G B OA R D

A good solid wooden chopping board, or easy to clean plastic board are what I recommend. Make sure to buy a good-size one with plenty of surface on which to work. •

OV E N P R O O F, N O N S T I C K F RY I N G PA N

AVOCADO WITH CRAB

his isn’t standard kitchen speak. The gravelly voice in its half whisper saying: ‘I’m not here to impress you. I’m here to inspire you. Let’s ignite the imagination. Let’s take you somewhere you’ve never been before’. Marco Pierre White, enfant terrible of the British cooking renaissance, is the guru behind BBC Maestro’s course Delicious Food, Cooked Simply. The online learning platform also features David Walliams instructing us in writing for children, Gary Barlow on songwriting and Jed Mercurio in television drama. With learning at home very much flavour of the moment, improving our cooking skills is a popular and worthwhile ambition, and Maestro’s motto is ‘let the greatest be your teacher’. Marco Pierre White has been uncharacteristically quiet in recent years. Widely seen as the first celebrity chef, in 1994 he was both the youngest and the first British chef ever to be awarded three Michelin stars. He trained with Albert and Michel Roux at Le Gavroche and Pierre Koffman at La Tante Claire, and went on to mentor Gordon Ramsay and a generation of budding chefs before retiring in 1999 to become a restaurateur rather than a chef. Pierre White was the original shouty chef, unafraid to bar people from his restaurants for crimes against taste (such as asking for salt) and famously making Gordon Ramsay cry. But there’s no chance of him making anybody cry during the short videos that make up this course. Gone is the hellraiser of the tabloids and in his place

is a low-voiced, grey-haired figure, more Dumbledore than rockstar, a wise sage of the kitchen. We are here to learn to perfect everyday dishes, not to cook cheffy fantasies. A lot of it is about attitude, and philosophy – and more of it is about Marco himself. It’s not even until lesson six that we actually encounter a recipe, and then we’re eased in with anchovies on toast. Beacuse first we’re introduced to the rules according to Marco. “Food enriches people’s lives,” he announces. “Feed people well. They don’t come to be impressed - they come to be fed. And eat while it’s hot – don’t wait for anyone. The only person you wait for is the queen.” He’s certainly entertaining, and his conversation is full of gems that he could release as slogans on teatowels. ‘Cooks accept that mother nature is the true artist,’ he says. And ‘gastronomy is the greatest form of therapy that any misfit can be exposed to.’ And my favourite: ‘A tree without roots is a piece of wood. Think about it.’ He talks about Anthony Bourdain as ‘the most beautiful pied piper’. ‘We live in a world of refinement not invention. Think about it’ So what do we learn? Lots, actually. Starting with scrambled eggs, to which the key is very low heat. Perfect scrambled eggs are cooked in a pan that’s cool enough to touch, slowly. Butter makes everything taste better, is a general rule. “Don’t whisk. It’s not a race. It’s about the eggs and only the eggs. Don’t rush it. Only a fool would rush scrambled eggs.” Then there’s ragu. ‘Don’t make bolognese to serve today. Make it to serve in three or four days’ time. It will be sensational’. The first key is to grate, not chop, the vegetables. And then once they’re in the Le Creuset (always a

Invest well, and look after a frying pan. I suggest a non-stick frying pan with a metal or silicone handle, which means it can be put in the oven. It is important to give yourself that flexibility. Once bought, be sure to maintain your pans properly – try never to scratch the surface with metal utensils and avoid putting through the dishwasher. •

FLAME-PROOF CASSEROLE

I use a flame-proof, cast iron casserole for so much of my home cooking. Between that and the frying pan you almost don’t need any other equipment. They are not cheap, but they are hardy, and they’ll allow you to take your cooking from hob to oven. From a cooking perspective they are important too, as it means you can cook an entire ragù or sauce in one pot, carrying all the flavour through from beginning to end. [Marco’s casserole is a classic orange Le Creuset]. •

S I L I C O N E S PAT U L A

I use this spatula almost as much as I use my knife. It is the wooden spoon’s natural successor. They are shaped perfectly for even stirring.

Le Creuset), do not move the pan. ‘Work your beef,’ he says. Then there’s macaroni cheese: ‘It’s about taking people on a journey of discovery.’ How to avoid lumps in your white sauce? Simple: more butter than flour. A bay leaf, a clove. And then, interestingly, instead of pouring sauce over cooked macaroni, we add the macaroni to the bechamel before adding the cheese in layers. ‘Keep the two flavours apart so you can taste the textures.’ And then cook it under the grill, not the oven. On signing up for the course you’ll receive a full 89 pages of course notes, but many of Marco’s words of wisdom are bound to imprint on your brain. This journey is three and a half hours long and costs £80, less than a meal in any of his restaurants. Think about it. bbcmaestro.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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24/03/2021 10:54

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25/03/2021 12:12

25/03/2021 13:15

FOOD & DRINK • MEAL KITS

HAKK ASAN

H O T P L A T E S

OUR FAVOURITE MEAL DELIVERIES OF THE MONTH

Hakkasan's Occasions box is definitely one for an occasion. Six of the most classic Hakkasan dishes come ready to prepare, starting with colourful dim sum in a bamboo steamer, and finishing with an impressive souffle. We loved grilled chilean seabass in honey and smoked beef ribs with jasmine tea. What a treat. £175; hakkasan.com

BARBER ' S BA ZA AR

Award-winning chef Abdul Yaseen's authentic Indian and Pakistani food is a hit in Crouch End, and he's just opened a new restaurant in Kentish Town. The devil tandoori wings, lamb sag bhuna masala and tarka daal are must-orders. barbersbazaar.com

PA R A D I S E Hōtal Paradise is the new at-home experience from the team who brought us the contemporary Sri Lankan restaurant, Paradise. Their Spring Supper meal kit contains ready-to-heat dishes such as pulled pork shoulder, kithul & elderflower caramel, and Northern turmeric dahl, onion & black mustard seeds. dishpatch.co.uk

FA R I N A

This Notting Hill Gate pizzeria has just opened its new site, down the road from the first. It specialises in Neopolitan-style pizzas — simple dough made with live yeast and Caputo flour, slow fermented for up to 48 hours. The result is a light base and puffy crust topped with San Marzano tomatoes and buffalo mozzarella. farinapizza.co.uk

DA R J E E L I N G EXPRESS This new seven course feast is designed by Asma Khan to cheer us up, and it works. Tasty channa chat and dinky puchkas are a nod to Indian street food, while hearty slow-cooked lamb and spiced Mughlai korma are comforting and multi-layered. Beetroot raita and tomato chuteny accompany. £98 darjeeling-express.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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24/03/2021 10:59

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FA S H I O N

LADY IN RED VALLE&VIK

This new London coolgirl brand was founded by Norwegian designer Silje Vallevik, and each piece is made entirely from silk and organic cotton. The Cannes Do dress in Vamp Red can be worn to a black tie event (remember those?!) just as easily as it can be thrown on with a knit and trainers. £415 valleandvik.com

Q&A with Aspiga 40 • Diamond jewellery 43 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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24/03/2021 14:23

INTERVIEW

FAIR FROCKS Absolutely meets Lucy Macnamara of Aspiga, the growing fashion brand that’s totally dedicated to sustainability By PENDLE HARTE

LUCY MACNAMARA, WEARING ASPIGA

ucy Macnamara isn’t the typical fashion person. Yes, she runs a thriving fashion company and spends her days thinking about fabrics, cuts and colours, but her vocation isn’t really to do with clothes. Macnamara’s charity background and enormous enthusiasm for travel and sustainability led her to set up a fashion company that exists to stimulate fair trade with international artisans and, ultimately, to save the planet, as well as making nice things to wear. It’s a big ambition and one that goes beyond the urge for a new dress, but her business is currently celebrating both 15 years of trading and a shortlisting in Drapers’ Sustainable Fashion Awards. Aspiga – named for Lucy’s first horse – offers a surprisingly enormous collection, and as an entirely sustainable business it’s the antithesis of exploitative fast fashion. Mostly these are clothes designed for holidays – floaty dresses, beachwear, sandals, cotton tops, kaftans – but there’s also a growing selection of other things. Knitwear, trainers, dog collars. Even menswear. Lucy is clearly someone who loves taking things on, though she thinks she should probably stop. “We just keep adding,” she says. Originally the business started with sandals. Lucy says: ‘In 2003, I went on holiday to Kenya and was awestruck by the artistry and craftsmanship I discovered. Delicate, hand-beaded sandals.

Intricately adorned belts. Beautiful, bright jewellery.” She set out to bring them to a wider audience and to trade them fairly, and it grew from there. Lucy spent two years developing the Aspiga sandal collection, while working part time at the Business in the Community charity, where she was a key member of the team for over 12 years. When

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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FASHION • PROFILE

ASPIGA she launched the collection to trade in 2005, at Top Drawer, it was snapped up by 40 stockists – so she left the day job to dedicate her energies to Aspiga. Kenyan sandals continued to be her main focus, along with Masai jewellery and belts until five years ago when she began to introduce clothes. Since then, it’s all been about refining her sustainability commitment. ‘We aim to use entirely chemical-free materials - at the moment we’re using 95% organic cotton and hope for that to be 100% soon,’ says Lucy. She’s always improving – they have stopped using any man-made fibres and are offsetting their carbon footprint with Carbon Click, plus she’s certified with B Corp, the standard for sustainable business. Aspiga’s aims are wide-ranging – they’re now involved in an initiative for collecting plastic rubbish from Kenyan beaches and taking it to recycling, and for every pair of sandals sold the company pays someone’s school fees. In 2019, Lucy opened the first Aspiga pop-up on the King’s Road, which has become an annual event every June. Last summer’s pop-up in St Mawes was a huge success and will reopen in May, and this year there are plans to open retail outlets in Wiltshire and Worcestershire, as well as a beach boutique in Polzeath, Cornwall. The new collection includes a vast range of dresses and holiday fashion. So for a guiltfree fashion fix, you know where to go.

Spri ng/Summer POP-UPS O P E N I NG 12 A P R I L ST. M AW E S , C O R N WA L L Aspiga at Onda, 14 Commercial Road, St Mawes, TR2 5DN •

WA D E B R I D G E , P O L Z E AT H The Mowhay, Trebetherick, Wadebridge PL27 6SE • W I LTO N , W I LT S H I R E The Courtyard, The Guild Wilton, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP2 0BH • C H E L S E A , LO N D O N 123 Sydney Street, SW3 6NR 7 - 20 June

“Her fashion company exists to save the planet – as well as making nice things to wear”

aspiga.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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25/03/2021 15:28

The Jewellery Workshop of Amersham

THE JEWELLERY WORKSHOP OF AMERSHAM has an extensive stock range to help you ﬁnd a special piece of jewellery and will go that extra mile to ensure you get what you want. Victor, the on-site goldsmith with over 30 years experience can repair treasured items or create a unique piece of jewellery.

Due to Covid, click and collect is available. Please see the website for details on how to “request an envelope” to post repair work in.

amershamworkshop@hotmail.co.uk | 01494 434178 | jewelleryworkshopamersham.co.uk

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25/03/2021 12:44

FASHION • JEWELLERY

Let it shine

Diamond is the April birthstone, and these are a cut above the rest By ABBIE SCHOFIELD

ELI-O

DIAMOND STORE

ANNOUSHKA

Natural Diamond Halo Engagement Ring, POA eli-o.ch

Athena Diamond Drop Earrings, £1,475 thediamondstore.co.uk

Hidden Reef 18ct Gold Diamond Cuff, £25,000 annoushka.com

DINNY HALL

GFG JEWELLERY

MATILDE

Shuga 14k Gold Pave Diamond Huggie Hoops, £995 dinnyhall.com

Project 2020 Diamond Ring, £4,750 gfgjewellery.com

Azulejo Pendant Necklace, £750 matildejewellery.com

PHOEBE COLEMAN

SHAHLA KARIMI

LEO AND LUMI

Rays of Light Solitaire Diamond Sunbeam Set, from £7890 phoebecoleman.com

Gold Sounds Necklace No. 3 Patricia Neal, $795 shahlakarimi.com

Ophelia Bracelet, £150 leoandlumi.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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24/03/2021 11:05

M A K E T H E C U T Stella Mccartney makes way for her most sustainable collection yet, with 80% eco-friendly materials S T E L L A M C C A R T N E Y. C O M

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

SMOKE & M I RRO RS CHANEL

Backstage at Chanel's FallWinter 2021/22 Ready To Wear collection, models listened to Diana Ross while being made up with a grunge smokey eye and heavy kohl. In our new era of masks, it's all about the eyes. chanel.com

Beauty notes 51 • Fitness news 53 • Latest eyewear 55 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • NOTES

BEAUTY NOTES

The latest in luxury makeup and skincare By ABBIE SCHOFIELD

EDITOR’S PICK

SKIN STATUS M E LYO N S K I N CA R E

By MICHAELLA BOLDER

Rosy cheeks D E R M ATO LO GY M

The Organic Rose Otto Rejuvenating Face Cream contains a blend of Chinese herbs and botanicals such as the potent antioxidant bakuchiol and organic rosehip oil. It noticeably improves the texture, radiance and hydration of mature skin, plus, it’s vegan, halal and free from controversial ingredients. £68; dermatology-m.com

VIEVE

Scottish makeup artist and social media star Jamie Genevieve’s cosmetics line Vieve is bold, versatile and high-performance. The new soft-matte Sunset blushes come in five flattering shades, from the juicy Pesca to the berry-toned Malbec. £23, cultbeauty.co.uk

GO FOR BRONZE

St. Tropez's expert tips for a flawless self tan

Founded by Roger Dupé, this Swedish brand is inspired by the model’s West African roots. The range focuses on concerns for darker skin tones and comprises a Milk Cleanser, Detox Serum, Day Cream and Night Cream, plus a range of handcrafted soaps. From £18; melyon.co

BOLD BLUSH

FOCUS

elf tanning can go seriously wrong. Orange patches, uneven streaks and stained sheets are just a few of the fake tan faux pas that can happen if we don’t use the right products and techniques. With summer around the corner, skincare & tanning expert Michaella Bolder shares her advice for mastering the bronzed glow. “Pay particular attention to skin preparation; start by removing any unwanted hair (ideally 24 hours before) then remove any leftover tan on the skin with St.Tropez Fake Tan Remover & Primer Mousse (£14.50) before exfoliating the skin with a scrub or mitt in the shower. If you don’t have any leftover tan, you still need to buff all over with an oil-free shower gel to lift off unwanted dead skin cells. Finish your shower with cold water over your legs to close the pores. “On the day of applying your tan, always use a clean tanning mitt and apply an oil-free moisturiser. Next, use four pumps of the St.Tropez Ashley Graham Limited Edition Ultimate Glow Kit (£38) on the mitt and glide in long sweeping motions over the whole body (leave the hands and feet out for now). The key here is more product on the mitt, as this allows a smoother fluid application and even coverage. Once the body is covered, simply spritz hands and feet with the St.Tropez Purity Face Mist (£22)." ST TROPEZ X ASHLEY GRAHAM

Limited Edition Ultimate Glow Kit, £38 uk.sttropeztan.com

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • FITNESS

TOP

PICKS Breathwork Classes

FITNESS NOTES By A B B I E S C H O F I E L D

TA R A N A S H Kundalini Yoga instructor Tara Nash’s uplifting yoga sessions involve an opening chant followed by repetitive movements, and a closing meditation or song. She also specialises in ‘Revelation Breathwork’ with classes every Sunday at 8pm. tara-nash.com

B R E AT H ZO N E Melike runs Instagram Live sessions four times a week: Mondays at 9am and Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays at 6pm. @breathzonelondon

D EEP BREAT H Are you breathing properly? Melike Hussein, founder of Breathzone, provides tips for insomnia, anxiety and fitness

I N S O M N I A

F LO U R I S H Richie Bostock, also known as The Breath Guy, is a world leader in breathwork. He has launched an app called Flourish, allowing users to practise breathing exercises anywhere via live or recorded classes, with support from the app’s community. thebreathguy.com

 Insomnia and other sleep issues arise when our nervous system is not in balance and remains in elevated sympathetic ‘fight or flight’ state. Slow breathing at six breaths per minute is proven to be the most effective breathing technique to sleep well. It works by balancing the autonomic nervous system. Breathing in through the nose, inhale to the count of five. Breathing out

through the nose (or mouth as comfortable), exhale to the count of five. Repeat for ten breaths.

A N XI E T Y  Ruminating about the past or future is shown to be one of the main causes anxiety. Slow, elongated exhales can immediately calm the mind and focus the attention to the present moment. Breathing in through the nose, inhale to the count of four. Exhale through the mouth with

pursed lips (like you’re blowing out candles) to the count of eight. Repeat at least three times.

FI TNESS  Diaphragmatic breathing is the most anatomically correct and efficient way to breathe – enabling maximum oxygen intake with the least effort. Therefore, it is the one to be mastered to boost your fitness. Lie on your back on a flat surface with your knees bent and place one hand on your upper chest and the other on your belly. Breathing in through the nose, inhale slowly and deeply towards your lower belly. The hand on your chest should remain still, while the one on your belly should rise Tighten your abdominal muscles and let them fall inward as you exhale through mouth with pursed lips. @Breathzonelondon breathzone.com

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INDEPENDENT LIVING CONSULTANTS QUALITY EYECARE TAILORED TO YOUR INDIVIDUAL NEEDS We are an essential service and open throughout lockdown for your eye care needs with strict covid measures in place •

Full social distancing precautions taken • Staff in full PPE

Open for all optical care and injuries Please call to book an appointment

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Established in 1998, Independent Living has been supplying top-grade mobility equipment to clients across Buckinghamshire and Berkshire for more than two decades. The friendly fully trained professional staff guide you through the maze of products available to make your life easier. Scooters, wheelchairs, walking aids, rise and recline chairs as well as smaller everyday products can be tried at the shop and/or demonstrated in your own home.

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01494 258586 | hello@hillvision.co.uk 53 Hill Ave, Amersham, HP6 5BX hillvision.co.uk

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“

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • FOCUS MIYOSMART LENSES COULD CHANGE A CHILD'S LIFE

S E E I N G C L E A R L Y N O W The director of Hill Vision writes about revolutionary new lenses that will be a godsend to those suffering from myopia

t Hill Vision the Opticians in Amersham on the Hill, we provide tailor made quality eyecare and eye wear, and provide NHS services. This pandemic has been challenging for us all to say the least, but as kids are now going back to school I am noticing an increasing number are having trouble seeing the classroom board properly. Myopia (short-sightedness where you can’t see things far away so well) is rising fast and the onset is much earlier now. It is estimated over half the world’s population could be myopic by 2050. Myopia is probably caused by a mixture of things such as genetics, doing a lot of close work, and not going outdoors (a particular issue during these lockdown periods). The advice I give to all kids is the “30, 30, out rule”, where you should not hold material less than 30cm from you, you should look

By AMIT MANDLA

away after 30 minutes and go outdoors during breaks. However, this only has a small effect on myopia. The problem with myopia is that the more short-sighted you are, there is a higher risk of eye problems such as retinal detachment, myopic macula degeneration, glaucoma and cataracts. The apparent reason why myopia increases so much in growing kids is to do with the changes in the eye’s anatomy in short-sighted children. In simple terms it is the image which falls further than what is required in the outer parts of the eye. What the eye then does is to elongate, further to compensate for this, but in doing so the eye becomes more short-sighted. This can increase up to the age of about 20. One of the most amazing things to happen in the optic industry is that we can slow down the progression of myopia by using clinically proven spectacle lenses by Hoya called the Miyosmart lens. They carry a CE mark and just look like normal spectacle lenses. Extensive research has been

conducted with the Miyosmart lens and they do not affect the vision or visual functions. I am very excited about this ground-breaking technology providing a slight defocus in the outer parts of the lens. Hoya also give a guarantee that if the prescription changes by more than -0.50d in a year then they will change them free of charge. It is great to see that not only can we correct sight with spectacle lenses, but slow down the progression of it getting any worse. Just by reducing the myopia by 1D reduces the risk of myopic macula degeneration by 40%, and Miyosmart lenses reduces the progression of myopia by 60%. If your child is complaining of problems seeing, parents are myopic or your child is short-sighted then have their eyes tested and ask about the Miyosmart lenses. HILL VISION 53 Hill Avenue, Amersham, 01494 258586 hillvision.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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25/03/2021 12:31

INTERIORS

AME R I CA N DR E A M FA R R OW & BA L L X K E L LY W E A R ST L E R

Kelly Wearstler's new collection of paint for Farrow & Ball is now available to purchase online. The California Collection offers a palette of eight fresh, sun-soaked paint hues and represents the first colour collection created by an outside designer since the paint company’s founding in 1946. Pictured is Faded Terracotta. farrow-ball.com

Interior inspirations 58 • Ottoline's patterns 68 • Kitchen trend 73 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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INTERIORS NOT E S Ideas, designs and styles for your home By PENDLE HARTE

PRETTY P L AT E S CASA CUBISTA

Founded in the pretty Portuguese fishing town of Olhão, Casa Cubista works with talented artisans to create bright and bold pieces, driven by a passion for craft and heritage, combined with an unerring eye for contemporary design. The name refers to the uniquely tessellated white houses of Olhão’s old town and the range is new at Liberty. libertylondon.com

CO R D P R AC T I C E SOFAS & STUFF

With its origins in fashion, corduroy is highly durable, creating a modern look without compromising on comfort. Sofas and Stuff are offering cord for all their sofas. sofasandstuff.com

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INTERIORS • NOTES

TA K E FIVE Floral bouquets

POLLENET Bunches from £35 pollenetflowers.co.uk

CO LO U R POP POLKRA

PAT T E R N CU T S PENNY MORRISON

Penny Morrison interiors pair unexpected pieces, patterns and palettes to create harmonious rooms brimming with colour and spontaneity. From fabric to tableware, lamps and cushions, these are interiors that ooze style and personality. pennymorrison.com

FLOWARD Mixed bouquets from £61 floward.com

FLOWARD Weekly bloom subscription, £172 per month floward.com

These pretty and colourful glass tumblers are hand-blown by skilled artisans, so no two are exactly alike. Light and fine, the hundreds of air bubbles add to the charm of this exciting range designed for everyday dining. Set of six, £42 polkra.com

ART OF GLASS NEIL IRESON

SHIDA PRESERVED FLOWERS Hand-tied dried flowers from £36 shirda.florist

Neil Ireson creates original stained glass which create a stunning feature in the form of a work of art to enhance any environment. Stained glass can illuminate interior spaces where there is no natural light, and can be incorporated inside and outside. neilireson.com

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INTERIORS • TREND

ANTIPODREAM Gordon effect ripple cushion, £49 antipodream.co.uk

THE MULTILOCAL Roxy Peshtemal, £70 themultilocal.com

ROCKETT ST GEORGE Loveseat in burnt orange velvet, £1,250 rockettstgeorge.co.uk

AUDENZA Coral enamel vase, £68 audenza.com

CULT FURNITURE

EDITOR’S PICK

THE HAIRPIN LEG COMPANY

Penelope accent chair, £149 cultfurniture.com

Hairpin table with orange legs, £229.95 thehairpinlegcompany.co.uk

EDITOR’S PICK PEG AND BOARD Coral orange memo board, £75 pegandboard.com

LIFE IN ORANGE

OKA UK Contorno cusion cover, £60 oka.com

The future's bright... By P E N D L E H A R T E

KITCHENAID WOODCHIP & MAGNOLIA Plumage OrangeFuchsia Wallpaper, £85 woodchipandmagnolia.co.uk

WALLS AND FLOORS Scintilla Paprika Orange Star Pattern Tiles, £24.95, wallsandfloors.co.uk

Stand mixer in honey, £529 kitchenaid.co.uk

YORKSHIRE FABRIC SHOP LE CREUSET Cast iron round cassserole, from £170 lecreuset.co.uk

Piccadilly Collection Gingham Fabric, £22.99 yorkshirefabricshop.com

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Sale g n i r Sp on s t r a t S th 2 1 April

Come and enjoy a stroll through our Spring Sale Oﬀers

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INTERIORS • RUGS CALIFORNIA POPPY

WEST COAST

GIRLS

Absolutely admires California Dreaming, The Rug Company’s new collaboration with fashion designers Rodarte By EVE HERBERT

R “California and the poppies have become a constant theme of reference for us”

enowned in the fashion world, sisters Kate and Laura Mulleavy have created two new designs that explore a sense of nostalgia for their Californian home. Inspired by their mother’s artwork, California’s vast poppy fields and 70s interiors, this collection offers a romantic escape in true Rodarte style. Based in Los Angeles, Kate and Laura Mulleavy founded Rodarte in 2005 and are internationally recognised for their conceptual and ethereal fashion designs. The duo’s first collaboration depicted their iconic style through fairytale fantasies, natural materials and their childhood in Northern California. While this collaboration still maintains Rodarte’s DNA, the collection explores a deeper sense of nostalgia and admiration for their home. ‘We found our mother’s papercut of California poppies when we were young and saved it, knowing how special the artwork was – since then, California and the poppies have become a constant theme of reference for us.’ The eponymous California Poppy features striking red and orange petals, with delicate green stems that float across the natural wood background. This poppy design is archetypal to Rodarte and was originally

DAPHNE

inspired by their mother’s artwork, which applied a cut-out technique to form the poppy pattern - not dissimilar in style to Matisse. The poppy is also emblematic of home in a broader sense, representing California as the state flower. Crafted with a soft wool base and highlighted with silk, the gentle floral motif gleams like a bloom in sunlight. This dispersed design insights a sense of freedom, memorialising the sister’s admiration for their childhood home. In true Rodarte style, Daphne illustrates a dramatic, romantic and nostalgic flair, an inspiration for their tenth anniversary AW16 collection. With a clear nod to the 1970s, Daphne is reminiscent of the shag rug iconic to the era, offering a sense of undeniable escapism. A lesser-known inspiration is the Daphnis moth, whose symmetrical pattern and intricate markings appealed to the sister’s furious imagination. To capture the delicacy of a wing, the rug has been woven with the finest silk and wool, creating a compact rich texture while appearing feathery and unrestrained. Contrasting tones seamlessly combine throughout the design with the lustre of silk inspiring the illusion of a wing in motion. therugcompany.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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INTERIORS • TREND

CIELSHOP Organic Cotton Faces Rug, £89.99 cielshopinteriors.com

FERM LIVING Amass long pile rug, £219 roseandgrey.co.uk

COX & COX Sigrid rug, £175 coxandcox.co.uk

KINFOLK DECOR Circle Woven Jute Rug , £39 kinfolkdecor.co.uk

FERM LIVING

EDITOR’S PICK

Tufted polar bear head rug, £75 roseandgrey.co.uk

BRAIDED RUG COMPANY

STEP ON CORRIGAN STUDIO

EDITOR’S PICK

Waynesville rug, £169.99 wayfair.co.uk

Pashmina organic jute rug, £79 braided-rug.co.uk

Absolutely the best rugs to buy now By P E N D L E H A R T E

HAY Bias rug, from £199 hay.dk

BLOOMINGVILLE Marlin Rug, £90 sweetpeaandwillow.com

SONYA WINNER RUG STUDIO After Albers deep rug, £2,027 sonyawinner.com

MADE.COM Drax Berber style rug, £179 made.com

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24/03/2021 11:39

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INTERIORS • FOCUS OSBORNE & LITTLE

SPRING REFRESH In her first column for Absolutely, interior designer Sandra Rothwell offers her top tips on starting anew

BLACK EDITION

BLACK EDITION, BLACKEDITION.COM

Don't try to overhaul the entire house in one go

ith so many months spent indoors and working from home, many of you will have realised your home needs some improvements – so here are some ideas that will help you: • Start small; choose one room or a specific area. Don’t try to overhaul the entire house in one go – although having a scheme to follow through when you are ready is a good idea. • Consider how you use the space. What works well and what would you like to keep; what are the problem areas and what needs to be replaced? If you have pets, are they allowed on the furniture? If you have children, is this a room they are allowed to play in or is it for grown-ups only? • What’s your style – Scandinavian, industrial, contemporary? • Think about colours you like and dislike and whether you prefer patterns and/or textures? • Collect inspiration and ideas – browse Pinterest and magazines and see if there is a common theme. A good starting point is a new piece of furniture, which can really transform a room. Another way to start the process and create an impact is choosing a new wall colour or wallpaper. This provides an instant uplift and by using coordinating colours for accessories you can add gorgeous, stylised accent pieces to your room. There are many other factors to take into consideration too. As there is so much to consider and so many chances to

make potential mistakes, I have launched Roomology to make this whole process easier. It’s an online service whereby you answer questions about the space you want to decorate, your style preferences and budget, provide dimensions and upload some photographs. In a couple of weeks I will create a personalised Roomology box containing a room layout, paint and wallpaper samples, fabric swatches, a colour palette together with lighting advice and a furniture and accessories shopping list. It’s independent and not restricted to one retailer, but will be tailored to your requirements from everything that is available. Find out more about this service at sandrarothwellinteriors.com/roomology

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RO LL wit h it Absolutely meets fabric and wallpaper designer of the moment, Ottoline de Vries Words P E A R L B OY D

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INTERIORS • FABRIC

Q&A Q It’s unusual to meet a lawyer-turned designer.

How did the switch come about? A It all started when my kids were toddlers and I wanted

to decorate their bedroom. I started off upcycling vintage furniture and using wallpaper from existing brands. My interest was piqued by all the colours and patterns. I gradually fell down the rabbit hole of researching all sorts of designs and started coming up with my own. I took evening classes in graphic design and things snowballed from there. From the moment I held the first roll of a wallpaper I had designed, I was hooked. Q Your style is distinctive. Can you describe it? A That’s a difficult one! I take inspiration from so many

things – the natural world, different cultures, art from exhibitions I have seen and places I have visited... Perhaps bold and colourful? A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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INTERIORS • FABRIC

“I’m definitely an advocate of more is more but without it feeling crazy”

and will often use these rooms as backdrops for trying out my designs and doing setups for photos. Sometimes it overflows into other parts of the house... Luckily my husband and my kids are very good about it. Q What other designers do you admire? A I love the colours and playfulness of Matisse as well

as all other strong and messy Fauvism art. The colours, shapes and unexpectedness of Russian avant garde art are very appealing to me. Many designers nowadays seem inspired by artists from that period. I’m sure it’s one of the reasons why I like the playful work of Luke Edward Hall so much. But I’m also inspired by the beauty of Flora Roberts’ realistically painted flowers and the classic wallpapers of William Morris. There are too many inspiring designers out there to give a satisfying answer to this question. Ottoline’s fabrics and wallpapers are stocked at The Fabric Collective thefabriccollective.com

Q Your collection includes a lot of stripes and

some geometrics as well as having a very handdrawn feel, which is remarkable. Is that fair to say? A I like being able to coordinate multiple patterns around a similar colour scheme. Often something organic will sit well with something geometric, which will sit well with stripes, etc. So in a way I think the stripes and geometrics complement the ones you mentioned have that ‘hand-drawn’ feel. Q What is your best-selling print? A Improvisation Number 1 Q And what was your first design? A My first design was Skyline The Hague, a sketch of

buildings and landmarks in my then home town. Q What is your own home like? A My own home is ever evolving - I’m not afraid of mixing

lots of patterns, colours and styles, and I love my vintage finds. I’m definitely an advocate of more is more but without it feeling crazy. I aim to create something a bit bold yet kind of classic. I use the front rooms as my studio, A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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25/03/2021 12:44

INTERIORS • KITCHENS

C U P B O A R D

L O V E Why a British Standard kitchen is the ultimate in style and practicality By EVE HERBERT

ritish Standard make beautifully simple wooden cupboards that are delivered to your door ready made. The affordable range is underpinned by a commitment to craftsmanship, an obsession with design and a belief that creativity in the home should be celebrated. British Standard also provide a free design service that enables customers to identify a layout that is as enduring and practical as the cupboards themselves. British Standard launched in 2012 in response to growing demand for pared-back, well-made, affordable cupboards that would

work in any room. The company’s creative director is Katie Fontana, co-founder of the bespoke luxury kitchen brand, Plain English. The inspiration for British Standard can be traced back to a kitchen Katie visited as a child. “It was created from a series of inexpensive wooden cupboards arranged quite simply, painted green and set against a backdrop of floral wallpaper,” Katie recalls. “I remember walking into the room and thinking how marvellous it was.” It is this combination of thrift and creativity – together with Katie’s extensive knowledge of design and commitment to quality – that has been distilled into the unique ethos of British Standard. British Standard cupboards are built to endure a lifetime of everyday use and materials are given careful consideration. The door and frames of the cupboards are made from Poplar whilst the carcass is made of a durable, easy-to-maintain Birch plywood. Inside, an adjustable midway shelf is lipped with solid Beech. The pared-back design means the cupboards will work in any interior setting: rural or urban, contemporary or historic. “They are really a blank canvas,” says Katie. The online shop offers a range of ironmongery in a choice of finishes, including simple knobs, drawer pulls and catches but the colour palette and finish is entirely customisable. “The final look is endlessly adaptable and it can be refreshed over time,” says Katie. “What’s wonderful is that you have complete creative control. As a result, no two British Standard designs are ever the same.” British Standard Cupboards come in a range of standard sizes, starting at £535. An average sized kitchen comes in at around £8,000 britishstandardcupboards.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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INTERIORS • TREND

LOUIS POULSEN

SEBASTIAN HERKNER

Panthella table lamp in chrome, £590 nest.co.uk

Gubi Collar pendant £375 chaplins.co.uk

ROCKETT ST GEORGE Art Deco Canopy table lamp, £55 rockettstgeorge.co.uk

GLOW LIGHTING Bertie table lamp, £275 glowlighting.co.uk

DAR LIGHTING Ensio table lamp, £118 darlighting.co.uk

DAR LIGHTING Bunny colour changing outdoor light, £85 darlighting.co.uk

EDITOR’S PICK

LIGHT FANTASTIC

COX & COX Frosted Globe Table Lamp, £115, coxandcox.co.uk

Illuminations with style and personality By P E N D L E H A R T E

DYBERG LARSEN Shanghai table lamp, £74 limelace.co.uk

POOKY Ned standing lamp, £270 pooky.com

SELETTI JONATHAN ADLER

Mouse lamp, £70 redcandy.co.uk

Georgia table lamp, £795 sweetpeaandwillow.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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LUXE DREAM B O AT YACHT LIFE

No request is too outlandish on a luxury charter and in the new post-lockdown world, West Nautical anticipates many guests will be in serious need of ultimate relaxation, and a luxury yacht charter provides guests with the perfect way to do this.

inside this section: BUYING FINE ART p79 PAT E K P H I L I P P E ’ S T I M E L E S S A P P E A L p 8 1 P O ST- PA N D E M I C P RO P E RT Y p 8 2

SEE MORE AT WESTNAUTICAL.COM

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LUXE • FINE ART

I N T H E F R A M E Should I invest in art? It's important to take advice from an expert By J O H N A DA M S

C AVA L I E R S Watercolour on paper: 30 x 45 cm Signed by André Brasilier (b.1929)

L E P O RT AU P R I N T E M PS Oil on paper laid down on canvas: 48 x 64 cm by Othello Radou (1910 – 2006)

MOISSON Oil on canvas: 38 x 47 cm • Signed & dated 1920 by Gustave Cariot (1872 – 1950)

he question of whether art can be a good investment can only be answered when backed up with studious research, honest and reliable professional advice and a garnish of luck. No investment is risk-free but the art market is notoriously fickle, being subject to the vagaries of both current aesthetics and financial stability. Unlike stocks and shares, where an individual share in a particular company has a value that is identical to a companion share, no two artworks by a particular artist are identical – and consequently the attribution of value is not straightforward. Two similarly sized and dated paintings by a particular artist can vary enormously depending on subject, condition and perhaps most importantly, aesthetic judgement. I can make a qualitative assessment to determine the authenticity and stature of an artwork within an artists’ oeuvre, but I cannot necessarily explain the narrative for taste. Individuals wear different identities/clothes in order to reflect both their own preferences and societal fashion and in many ways the art market reflects a similar confection of discernment. Values are very much assimilated within our current cultural aesthetic. These norms are continually changing to meet the next generation of ideas and identifying lifestyle behaviour. Back in the 1950s, paintings by the PreRaphaelite masters of the 19th Century could be purchased for very modest amounts. Today painters such as Rossetti, Millais and Waterhouse have undergone a reassessment, and values have risen to reflect their newfound popularity. In general, much of Victorian art is currently in the doldrums; once-valuable paintings may be purchased inexpensively. Will a future generation of art buyers wish to reignite an enthusiasm

LE MIEL ET LE LAIT Oil on canvas: 60 x 73 cm • Signed. Titled & dated 1968 verso by André Masson (1896 – 1987)

for Victorian art, or indeed for any other currently unfashionable style of painting? If you do wish to speculate on art as part of your investment portfolio then I would advise both caution and extreme diligence. Do your homework. Visit as many galleries as possible, if only online at the moment, to get a feel for your preferred style, period or artists. Much in the same way as one would seek out professional help with any other meaningful investment, then do find a suitable and reputable dealer for advice. This may involve extra expense but nevertheless should provide some comforting reassurance before purchase decisions are made. I would also seek to spread the risk by purchasing a variety of artworks and not necessarily confine the portfolio to one artist or genre. There are no guarantees of financial reward but if you purchase what you admire and cherish you will always have the artworks to give you pleasure and enjoyment. My conclusion is buy what you like and can comfortably afford. Enjoy the visual stimulation and satisfaction of ownership. If the artwork appreciates in value, all well and good. J O H N A DA M S F I N E A R T For help in creating a collection or administrating an existing one contact John Adams. johnadamsfineart.com

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Luxury Kitchens since 1892

Clear structures, sensible space. +SEGMENTO Y

Poggenpohl Marlow 75 High St | Marlow | SL7 1AB phone 01628 326 061 | marlow@poggenpohl.com www.marlow.poggenpohl.com

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LUXE • WATCHES

“The supple, comfortable bracelet, fitted with a fold-over clasp, is a jewel in its own right”

T i mel e s s

ELEGANCE Patek Philippe have launched a refresh of one its most in demand collections B y C A S P A R D AV I D

atek Philippe launched its first exclusively feminine collection in 1999, a watch with timeless style, to accompany every moment of the modern woman’s life. It was named the Twenty~4 collection, as in the 24 hours comprising a day and night. A fresh interpretation of the original “manchette” model, the Ref. 4910/1200A stands out as the epitome of timeless feminine elegance. The steel model is available with a blue sunburst dial (Ref. 4910/1200A-001) or a grey sunburst dial enriched by a gradation to black at the periphery (Ref. 4910/1200A-010). The whitegold applied numerals and hour

markers and white-gold baton-style hands all have a luminous coating ensuring excellent legibility in the dark. The supple, comfortable bracelet fitted with a fold-over clasp, is a jewel in its own right. In 2018, attuned to the needs of 21st century women and their increasing interest in mechanical movements, Patek Philippe launched the Twenty~4 Automatic. It was the first model of the Twenty~4 collection with a round case and the calibre 324 S C self-winding movement with date aperture and sweep seconds. For 2021, three new expressions of the Twenty~4 collection were launched. The “manchette” models now include a new version in rose gold with a chocolate-brown sunburst dial (Ref. 4910/1201R-001) and the Twenty~4 Automatic offers two new models, one in steel adorned with an olive-green sunburst dial (Ref. 7300/1200A-011), the other in rose gold, its dial gilded with a rose-gold sunburst (Ref. 7300/1200R011). The Twenty~4 collection brings beauty to every instant of daily life.

B E R RY ’ S W I N D S O R To discover more about the Patek Philippe Twenty~4 collection, please call Berry’s Windsor 01753 840 930 or visit berrysjewellers.co.uk

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24/03/2021 12:11

LUXE • PROPERTY

On the MARKET

After a tumultuous 2020, Knight Frank provides insight into the luxury London property market so far this year By KNIGHT FRANK

“Prime central London has been disproportionately impacted by the lack of international travel”

rices in the prime central and outer London property markets continued to recover from the impact of the pandemic at their own respective pace in the early months of this year. There was quarter-onquarter growth for the seventh consecutive month in prime outer London in February, demonstrating how demand for more space has driven suburban property markets in the capital. Average prices in Belsize Park, Dulwich and Wimbledon have all grown by 4% since April last year. In the year to February, there were 1.1% more transactions than over the previous 12-month period, which underlines the strength of activity given the UK property market was closed for eight weeks last year. With passenger numbers through Heathrow down by 80-90%, activity in the prime central London property market

Super-Prime Demand Rises despite travel restrictions Annualised % change

has been disproportionately impacted by the lack of international travel. The number of transactions in PCL in the year to February 2021 was 20% down on the previous 12-month period. While a gap is opening up between price growth in central and outer areas of the capital, it will close as international buyers can get back on aeroplanes. Demonstrating how overseas demand has grown despite tight restrictions around travel, the number of new prospective buyers registering in the price bracket increased by 109% in the year to January compared to the previous 12-month period. Continued uncertainty around the relaxation of international travel restrictions means we have recently revised our 2021 forecast for PCL down to 2% from 3%. Siminarly, we have moved our forecast for PCL in 2022 to 7% from 6% as more of the pent-up demand currently building is displaced into next year. KNIGHT FRANK knightfrank.co.uk

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new houses | extensions | refurbishments | basement excavations | swimming pools

If you have an architectural or interior design project please email gp@gregoryphillips.com

LONDON | LOS ANGELES

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gregoryphillips.com | +44 20 7724 3040 |

@gregoryphillipsarchitects

25/03/2021 12:24

PRIVATE TOURS AVA I L A B L E V I R T U A L LY O R I N - P E R S O N E V E RY W E E K D AY M O R N I N G Your opportunity to look around the school, meet some of our staﬀ and have any questions answered by our Headteacher Mrs Joanna Leach.

The reasons you might choose Highfield for your child are numerous. The range of opportunities for children of all passions and abilities is extraordinary and we take pride in our track record of helping children get into their next schools of choice, often with scholarships or other awards. Above all though, Highfield is a small, close-knit family. We produce confident, polite, resilient and compassionate girls ready to take on the challenges that the next phase of their lives will bring. E XC E P T I O N A L E D U C AT I O N · O U T S TA N D I N G VA L U E T O R E G I S T E R O R F O R M O R E D E TA I L S E M A I L O F F I C E @ H I G H F I E L D P R E P. O R G O R C A L L 0 1 6 2 8 6 2 4 9 1 8

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F A M I L Y

A LOVE OF LEARNING S EV E N OA KS S C H O O L

Founded in 1432, there is one tradition that award-winning Sevenoaks School school holds dear: the cornerstone of always championing a forward-thinking and liberal approach to education. sevenoaksschool.org

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The class of 2020

Christine Cunniffe, principal at LVS Ascot in Berkshire, reflects on a year like no other Q Before we begin, could you give us a brief overview of the school… A LVS Ascot is an all-ability, independent day and boarding school for boys and girls aged four to 18. Our engaging teaching and co-curricular activities are designed to inspire children to exceed their expectations and become independent adults. Q Considering it’s pretty much a year to the day since the first lockdown came in, have you ever experienced a period of time like this in education? A No definitely not – this is something I don’t think any headteacher would ever have contemplated, never mind experienced. There are no headteacher manuals that say on “page 441 you will find guidance on how to run a school in the event of a pandemic”. To say this period of time has been extraordinary is an understatement – a time for true leadership and rising to the ever-varying challenges.

Q How did LVS Ascot cope with previous lockdowns? A We really hit the ground running in March 2020. Luckily, we had already embarked on a blended learning journey, so the technology was in place. The lockdown merely accelerated this process and, within a few days, we were delivering over 2,000 online lessons a week. Our staff were amazing in adapting so quickly, delivering not only academic lessons, but well-being support and a plethora of co-curricular activities. We listened to parents and pupils throughout, and changed and adapted our delivery in response to their feedback and experiences of lockdown, whether that was too much work or too much screen time. Q Did your pupils surprise you in any way? A The level of engagement was, and continues to be, fantastic and quite overwhelming. We have set pupils

“To say this period of time has been extraordinary is an understatement”

FAMILY • EDUCATION

and parents a number of challenges and projects throughout the year, such as interviewing grandparents, telling war stories, writing poems and drawing pictures to mark the 75th anniversary of VE Day. Pupils have also been sending in musical performances and drama recitals, and we’ve held artwork challenges, food bank collections and quizzes to keep everyone motivated. So far, we have raised over £3,000 for NHS Charities Together. It’s been an excellent effort on the part of the whole community to keep everyone smiling and working together. Q Was there much to get into place before all pupils were allowed back to school on 8 March? A Not a great deal because we had worked out the logistics for mass lateral flow testing over the Christmas holidays, anticipating a normal return to the spring term. Staff rallied to train as swabbers, processors and recorders, and the whole school pulled together to be ready to hit the ground running on 8 March. The classrooms were still in their socially distanced 2020 layouts and returning after lockdown was not such a big issue as it was back in September. COVID measures are now part of everyday life. It just shows you how resilient pupils and staff can be.

C H R I ST I N E C U N N I F F E Principal at LVS Ascot Berkshire lvs.ascot.sch.uk

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Castle View Retirement Village

“

It’s just a wonderful place to live!

Open Weekend on Fri 16th - Sun 18th April With covid restrictions easing on 12th April, we are opening our doors to give you the opportunity to bring your family, or friends (within the Rule of 6, or 2 households) to come and see Castle View. After seeing the village, enjoy a glass of bubbles and the chance to discuss Castle View with your family or friends on our exquisite Sky Terrace, with fresh air and plenty of space to socially distance, overlooking the rooftops of Windsor and the famous Castle. Please note, whilst Castle View have remained Covid free to date and now all property owners and staff have received the covid vaccination, to ensure your safety please let us know if you plan to visit.

CASTLE VIEW VIRTUAL TOUR

There has never been a better time to consider living at Castle View.

Call our friendly Customer Care Manager, Ruth, on 01753 378 127 to find out more or arrange a safe viewing.

www.castleviewwindsor.co.uk

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info@castleviewwindsor.co.uk

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FAMILY • FINANCE

“Contesting a Will is a complex process, which can take months or even years”

Q&A

Where there’s a Will… BP Collins Solicitors explain how to approach contesting a Will By CRAIG WILLIAMS

Q How do you contest a Will and how long will it take? A You first need to establish the grounds for a claim. Perhaps the person who died did not have the mental capacity to make a Will or did not fully comprehend its contents; maybe they were influenced by someone else, or perhaps you believe the Will was forged; or it doesn’t reflect the wishes of the person who died due to a clerical mistake or a misunderstanding. Maybe you feel there has not been adequate provision made for you in the Will. You should always discuss your options with a solicitor who should explain the evidence that is required, the process, and the likely obstacles. After taking advice, if you have a potential claim, the next step is to consider entering

a caveat to prevent the Probate Registry issuing a grant of probate (if there is a Will) or letters of administration (if there is no Will). It costs £3 to enter a caveat, which lasts for six months and can be extended by application. Ordinarily, you would then explain your case in a formal letter sent to the people who will benefit under the Will. Contesting a Will is a complex process, which can take months or even years, particularly if it involves going to court. It’s always worth considering mediation to help avoid court proceedings, which can be expensive and stressful. Q How long do I have to contest a Will? A If you are a beneficiary making a claim

against an estate, you normally have up to 12 years after the person who made

the Will has died. In cases of probate fraud, there is usually no time limit. There are strict and shorter time limits for certain claims. For example, a claim for a reasonable financial provision under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act, must be issued within six months from when probate was granted. Q Can I contest a Will if I’m not in it? A Yes. If you suspect a Will is not valid,

you can make a challenge in the hope that an earlier Will or the Intestacy Rules will apply. If you were part of the family or you were financially maintained by the person who died, then you might be able to make a claim against the estate for a reasonable provision to be made, regardless of whether you are named in the Will. Q Can I contest a Will if probate has been granted? A You can dispute the validity of a Will after a grant of probate has been issued, but it is usually better to make the challenge sooner, for strategic reasons. Claims for increased financial provision under the Inheritance Act can also be issued after probate is granted.

Disputing a Will requires the expertise of a contentious probate solicitor. Before taking the next step, contact Craig Williams at craig.williams@bpcollins.co.uk or call 01753 889995 to discuss your options.

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25/03/2021 13:17

JUSTWARDROBEDOORS ADD SOME GLAMOUR TO YOUR BEDROOM

A NEW WAY TO BUY YOUR LUXURY WARDROBES from replacement doors to a complete installation

FULL WARDROBE INSTALLATION

REPLACEMENT WARDROBE DOORS

USE OUR LUXURY WARDROBE KITS

Visit us online to view our luxury door designs

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FAMILY • RETIREMENT

You can own your property outright, but not have to worry about maintenance. • As an independently owned and run development there is a close and accountable team. • Apartments are exclusively for those aged 55 years and over, and you can join in with as much or as little community activity as you wish. • The location, with historic Windsor on your doorstep. • The views, which are arguably the best in town.

THE SOCIAL SIDE IS HUGE DRAW AT CASTLE VIEW

Friends for

LIFE

We meet some of the residents of Castle View, Windsor, a development that is changing the way we look at retirement villages

THE STUNNING VIEW FROM THE ROOFTOP TERRACE

“It's a wonderful place in which to spend your golden years”

t’s fair to say the past year has been one to forget for many of us – but for some their lives have actually changed for the better. “We have lived here for six months and needless to say in very difficult times we haven’t felt even a moment of regret,” says Audrey, one resident of Castle View, Windsor. Such a response isn’t uncommon when meeting the retirement village’s residents, and digging a little deeper it is easy to understand why. One clue is in the name: being able to soak up the beauty of Windsor is certainly a draw. The village offers contemporary one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, with the largest rooftop apartment offering over 1,000 sq ft of living space. “I love my apartment,” smiles Chris, “I have so much space here. It is so bright and airy.” Although life stopped for many in 2020, not so at Castle View, as CEO Robin Hughes says: “Those in their retirement simply want to get on with living.” It’s a belief shared by couple John and Margaret, who add: “The

REASONS TO CHOOSE Castle View, Windsor

residents at Castle View are very interesting and friendly, and exude the feeling that life is to be lived in spite of COVID-19.” The feeling of camaraderie amongst the residents is plain to see, and there’s lots to do for those who enjoy entertainment. “Castle View is a happy place in which you can be as sociable as you want to be – there is no compulsion to join in if you prefer to do your own thing,” say couple Norma and Les. “It’s a great place in which to spend your golden years.” Fellow resident, Pauline, agrees. “We are very fortunate to have a good balance of social activity and responsible consideration for each other,” she says. “Tuesday Yoga keeps us mobile, singing is uplifting, quiz nights exercise the grey matter, while film nights (with ice cream), poetry nights (with Prosecco), and wine and gin-tasting and parties are all a lot of fun.” There are plenty of warm words for the staff at Castle View too, who continue to adhere to a “safety first” approach. “All our staff and residents have been vaccinated,” explains village manager, Lisa Fisher. As husband and wife, Alan and Jean, conclude: “Most importantly for our families, and ourselves, is the peace of mind of having 24-hour security and the support of a dedicated management team.” CA ST L E V I E W, W I N D S O R 01753 378 127 castleviewwindsor.co.uk

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Take the Stress Out of

luxury Travel

From walking barefoot with your loved one on a heavenly beach on the North coast of Brazil to enjoying a candle-lit dinner in front of breathtaking views over the lush landscapes in the Himalayas You name it, and we will plan it!

If the Foreign Ofﬁce advises that travellers should not visit a particular country, then we’ll act on this to keep you safe and reserve the right to cancel your holiday.

O U R P R O M I S E TO YO U

We’ll do our best to create a new holiday for you within your price range, but if this can’t be done or travel is imminent, we’ll offer you the option of cancelling your holiday with a full refund

The world really is a big place and we do sell holidays from Antarctica right the way through to Zambia; however there are some areas we believe we are true specialists in , please call us and we will tell you all.

Purple Tree Travel | 01932 550 333 | 07902 675 966 | info@purpletreetravel.co.uk | purpletreetravel.com

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S The Space

he cottage is spacious, and provides hours of fun for our toddlers to run around finding new rooms and doors to enter. The traditional thatched-roofed cottage has been renovated to a high standard, with underfloor heating throughout, contemporary decor and a large well-stocked kitchen. There are four double rooms, but since one has to be entered via the master bedroom, it’s really only suitable for children. Taking into account the sofa space in the living room, it’s ideal for four adults and 2-4 children.

The Feel

he renovated cottage has kept all its traditional features, yet has been modernised to a high standard. Think exposed beams, low ceilings and tiny hidden staircases paired with indulgent king-sized beds, a 55” flatscreen TV with internet connection and Bluetooth soundbar speaker and a traditional wood-burning stove.

The Luxury

here are two stand-out features in this cottage. The first is the en-suite bathroom that comes with a copper roll-top bath from Catchpole and Rye, large walk-in shower and underfloor heating. If you have children, this bathroom is great as there's lots of room for bedtime baths, plus ultimate relaxation for mum. The piece-de-laresistance for us was the woodburning hot tub in the garden. For the first attempt, it takes almost four hours to heat up, but it’s definitely worth it. Much warmer (and greener) than an electric one, we sat stargazing with the smell of wood burning.

et in the 3,000-acre Dillington Estate, surrounded by the South Somerset countryside, it is the perfect place to explore the area and its natural beauty and countless little villages. Not far away you have the historic town of Illminister – and we also took a drive to the lovely beach at Lyme Regis.

Olivers Travels

weekend

Things to do

D ESTINATI O N S

KIDS FAMILY • UK GETAWAY

e booked our stay through Olivers Travels. Once you have booked you can use the app to manage your stay and itinerary, including travel guide PDF with activities in the area, maps, restaurant recommendations, highlights off the beaten track, and how to get around. Lots of additional services are available such as concierge, which includes a nanny or a fridge fill up on arrival.

WISTERIA COTTAGE D I L L I N G T O N E S TAT E By J E S S I C A S H A LT O U T

A traditional Somerset cottage with contemporary comforts RATES FOR A SEVEN-NIGHT STAYAT WISTERIA COTTAGE START AT £1,801 To book, visit oliverstravels.com or call 0800 133 7999

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Did you know that you could release equity from a home you would love to move to? Do you have an interest only mortgage that you either need or would like to pay off? Would you like to release tax free cash from the equity of your home?

INTERESTED IN KNOWING MORE? call Craig on 0800 448 0170 / 07740 414170 or email him at craig@equityreleasepurchase.co.uk

Craig works exclusively in the Equity Release field and has over 37 years financial services experience. He is completely independent and can work within the whole of the Equity Release market. We’d love you to support your local independent business, where you will not only get a bespoke personal service but pay far less for it too! If you are over 55 years and would like a free informal discussion call Craig Spark CeFA, CeMAP, CeRER at Equity Release Purchase.

Craig Spark - Principal CeFA, CeMAP, CeRER

0800 448 0170 07740 414170 info@EquityReleasePurchase.co.uk equityreleasepurchase.co.uk

This is a lifetime mortgage. To understand the features and risks, please ask for a personalised illustration. Check that this mortgage will meet your needs if you want to move or sell your home or you want your family to inherit it. If you are in any doubt, seek independent advice. Your Home (or property) may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. We offer a bespoke service and our fees can vary. Our usual set fee is only paid on completion as is 995.00. If your circumstances are more complex, we may charge a higher fee. Our maximum fee is 1% of the loan value. Equity Release Purchase is a trading style of Jay Jay (UK) Ltd, an appointed representative of The Right Mortgage Ltd, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Jay Jay (UK) Ltd is registered in England and Wales with Company Number: 04056416. Registered Address: The Stable Yard Vicarage Road, Stony Stratford, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, England, MK11 1BN.

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PROPERTY

WOODSIDE AVENUE HP9

£1,399,950

beautiful and elegant Edwardian style home in Woodside Avenue that has undergone a complete refurbishment and has been sympathetically extended by the present owners, offering modern accommodation over two floors. The home benefits from a great 'New Town' Beaconsfield location and is situated less than a mile from Beaconsfield train station that has regular links direct to London Marylebone.

KINGSHILLS 01494 939868 kingshills.co.uk

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PROPERTY • DEVELOPMENT

CAPITAL GAINS

Close to London and boasting luxury on-site facilities, Harefield Place has plenty going for it

hen searching for a new home, we all want the best of all worlds – and Harefield Place could offer just that. Located less than 20 miles from central London, the homes here offer an easy commute into the capital, yet this unique development is surrounded by countryside and has a wealth of private, on-site facilities. Harefield Place offers a rare mix of both classic and contemporary apartments. The luxury development includes a conversion, with nine spectacular homes situated in the original Georgian Mansion, in addition to 16 stunning contemporary, newly built apartments set alongside. The Classic Collection is steeped in the history and grandeur of the original Georgian Mansion. These apartments retain many period features while providing generous living space. The Contemporary Collection has been built to complement

the Georgian Mansion, with high ceilings and large windows, while offering more modern open-plan living spaces. Within the Contemporary Collection, residents can access their own private indoor pool and separate hot tub – providing the perfect way to while away the hours. For those keen to get active, the state-ofthe-art gymnasium and outdoor tennis court are at your disposal, enabling you to choose from a host of private facilities, quite literally on your doorstep. Positioned alongside the Colne Valley Regional Park, many of the apartments here boast spectacular views out across the valley, while all the homes offer access to the development’s own private grounds and facilities. All the homes at Harefield Place achieve the highest level of specification and include underfloor heating throughout. The homes include fully-fitted, handmade bespoke kitchens with built-in Siemens appliances, in addition to carefully planned added extras to include Quooker boiling water taps and wine coolers. The beautifully presented

bathroom suites are fully tiled with Minoli porcelain tiles and include bespoke vanity units and stunning suites. The majority of bedrooms offer fully fitted wardrobes and their own en-suites, while the master bedroom in each apartment boasts not only an en-suite, but a dedicated dressing room too. The development includes an on-site estate manager who ensures that Harefield Place is maintained to the highest level, and the homes enjoy their own private outside space ranging from large terraces and balconies to roof terraces. Given its superb connections by road and Tube – the development is located in Ickenham, which is in Zone 6 – you can travel to other areas with the greatest of ease. But, then again, given what is on offer at Harefield Place, you may not want to. Prices start from

£8 5 0,0 0 0 - £ 1 , 575 ,0 0 0 Viewings are available 7 days a week by appointment. Please call 01895 733523 or visit harefieldplace.com

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PROPERTY • FOCUS THE QUALITY OF FITTINGS STAND OUT

ACCESS TO OUTDOOR SPACE IS A REAL DRAW

Green SHOOTS

OSBORNE HOUSE FEATURES A HIGH LEVEL OF SECURITY

onsidering what we have all needed over the course of the past year, the gardens at Osborne House – a gated development located near to the centre of Sunningdale – are an absolute godsend. “The rear garden at Osborne House is huge and we spent a long time planning and indulging our Capability Brown instincts to create a stunning focal point from a beautiful tree with symmetrical planting all around it,” says Andrea Fawell, sales and marketing director at Kebbell. The award-winning housebuilder has recently opened the doors to Osborne House, its new luxury apartments in Berkshire, which hosts six elegant and spacious three-bedroom apartments. These vary from 1,545 sq ft to 2,165 sq ft, with all featuring terraces or balconies. “Potential buyers, many of

New luxury apartments have been launched in Berkshire that will set you up for life post-lockdown

whom may be wealthy downsizers, don’t want to compromise on space, storage or quality of fittings,” adds Fawell. As well as the impressive gardens, Osborne House is also within easy reach of Sunningdale’s village centre. “Many potential buyers are already living in the local area because they are very attached to the region and all it offers,” Fawell says. “Others are moving from London, wanting to be a part of a close-knit community and to have close proximity to parks, leisure facilities and lovely shops and eateries. “The pandemic means we have also seen a renewed surge of interest in buyers keen to tick all the boxes in their new postlockdown home priorities,” she continues. “In particular, our buyers increasingly want to have access to a garden, be near outdoor space, and have a dedicated room as a home office or perhaps in some cases a room that can be used for hobbies or exercise. They also want space to entertain and for long-awaited family reunions.”

Osborne House is the sister development to nearby Wintersbrooke, which was launched last year and comprises six exclusive, spacious two- and three-bedroom apartments. And just as many looked to the outdoors for respite from lockdown, those small creature comforts have also been important and not forgotten behind the scenes at Wintersbrooke. “One of our Wintersbrooke residents was very keen to know how his paperboy was going to gain entry given how much consideration we had given to good security,” smiles Fawell. “We were able to assure him that the video entry system, accessed via the Comelit app, means all deliveries will be kept secure even if our purchaser is out enjoying his daily walk.” OSBORNE HOUSE Viewings are available by appointment only and Kebbell has put safety measures in place to make show homes COVID-19 secure and to comply with all government guidelines. kebbell.co.uk/new-homes/berkshire

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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24/03/2021 14:42

HAZLE.indd 1

25/03/2021 12:29

PP.indd 1

25/03/2021 12:35