Absolutely Hertfordshire January 2024

HERTFORDSHIRE

Hertfordshire JANUARY 2024

JANUARY 2024

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

It's a

SPECIAL 20 pages of fitness tips and wellbeing advice

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WRAP SAY FAREWELL TO 2023 AND HELLO TO A BRIGHT FUTURE WITH OLIVER BONAS ST ALBANS AND HITCHIN

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PLUS HAPPY HOMECOMING Renowned artist Rana Begum returns to St Albans RAISE A GLASS Drinking in Sopwell House's new Octagon Bar THE NEXT ACT Meet Tring Park School for the Performing Arts' new patron

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Our Winter Design Sale has begun, and you can save 15% off on a wide range of furniture and accessories to order, as well as up to 50% off on our premium ex-display items. We can help you make the most of your space with our free interior design service. You’ll receive a consultation in-store or at home, as well as 3D renderings of your space. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call or visit us in-store.

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ABSOLUTELY

Contents JANUARY 2024

34

44 14

C U LT U R E AGENDA

41

Iconic names head to Herts this month

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RANA BEGUM

The acclaimed artist returns to St Albans

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ALICE HEWSON

Drinking at the new Sopwell House hotspot

31

DRINKS

Dry January isn't welcome here

FA S H I O N & B E AU T Y 34 THE SHOOT

The designer you need to watch when it comes to the home in 2024

66 REAL HOME

An historic gem in Hertford

75 TREND

To boldly go in the home...

Nine of the best engagement rings

A B S O L U T E LY M AG A Z I N E S .C O M

The online guide to inspirational living that helps you stay one step ahead of the crowd and gives you the chance to win exclusive prizes.

E D U C AT I O N 78 TALKING HEAD

Lara Pechard of St Margaret's Bushey on giving pupils a voice

A bright start to 2024 at Oliver Bonas

39 JEWELLERY

47

INTERIORS 62 AMECHI MANDI

The professional golfer on the Centurion Club

FOOD & DRINK 28 OCTAGON BAR

HEALTH SPECIAL

Top wellbeing tips, from detox (p44) to Veganuary (p47)

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STEAM FESTIVAL

Herts schools on being innovative

O N T H E C OV E R Oliver Bonas AW23 (oliverbonas.com)

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Editor’s

LETTER ABSOLUTELY’S January issue highlights

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Rana Begum The acclaimed artist on returning to St Albans (p16)

I

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am sure wellbeing means different things to different people. I have an unhealthy – ironically – obsession for keeping fit. In my 20s, I was the fittest player in my football team, and even into my 30s, but now in my 40s I am still yearning after those days, so much so I actually reckon it affects my mental health. Would you believe it.

I am, slowly, starting to accept I am getting older and not punishing myself in the gym (and inevitably injuring myself too). I recently gave a home to a rescue dog and she has given me a totally different focus, and it's true that stroking your pet really does boost the mood. I am also starting to eat different things, moving on from my carb-heavy approach in those gym going days, and as a result my sleep is a whole lot better.

The point is, I am not a big fan of preaching a particular health message to anyone. You choose what makes you feel best. So our health special covers a whole host of different things, and one of those may just help you to start 2024 off on a positive note.

Happy new year!

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Beauty

The latest products to add some new year glow (p55)

MARK KEBBLE EDITOR

Health Special

How to detox this month without the stress (p44)

Agenda

An iconic photographer's work comes to North Herts (p14)

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Alice Hewson

Why the pro golfer loves the Centurion Club course (p11)

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Wish LIST

EDITOR’S PICK

10 things we Absolutely love

M AT E R I A L GIRL Ahluwalia's Rosie ruffle top showcases the brand ’s innovative approach to reusing surplus material, £470. ahluwalia.world

SHINE ON Mach & Mach’s new collection is an ode to the undersea world, inhabited by mermaids and tritons, a romantic fairytale against the backdrop of breathtaking panoramas, filled with pearl-making oysters, striking corals and iridescent sunlight. brownsfashion.com

GRAPE NEWS These pink wine glasses from Maison Balzac are adorned with bunches of grapes, just as a reminder, £150. koibird.com

ALL THE TRIMMINGS With their detachable ostrich feather trim, these handcrafted party pyjamas are super versatile, £245. libertylondon.com

COMPILED BY

PENDLE HARTE

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ABSOLUTELY • LOVES

ON THE NAIL Palette has launched four brand new vegan, strengthening nail paints in dusky hues that strengthen your nails as you wear, supercharged with botanical ingredients, and are also free from 21 common, harmful nail polish ingredients. palettelondon.com

D AT E N I G H T What's more stylish than a Smythson desk diary? A Smythson desk diary in peony pink, of course.

We're choosing the large format Portobello version, £240. smythson.com

ROSE TINT Bold and square, Monc’s limited edition Chiltern specs will have you seeing clearly in 2024, £280. monclondon.com

P I N K L A DY The Prima Donna twist balcony bra has allover lace in a floral pattern and comes in the brightest pink you could dream of. ameliesfollies.co.uk

PINK PA R T Y Grind has teamed up with Our Place to launch the ultimate breakfast combo: a signature pink tin of coffee and a pink mini Always Pan, £115. grind.co.uk

IN THE SHADE The Adidas Originals eyewear collection marks an intersection of sport and street style seen through the lens of culture. £129 specsavers.co.uk

B E A R COSY Love pink? Love polar bears?

You need Aspiga's stylish jumper made from sustainable merino wool, £155. aspiga.com

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C U LT U R E

MILES JUPP 30 JANUARY, ALBAN ARENA

Since Miles Jupp’s last tour finished at The London Palladium in 2017, he’s been in The Full Monty on Disney Plus, The Durrells and Why Didn’t They Ask Evans? on ITV. Yet one sunny day, in the middle of all this, he suddenly suffered a brain seizure.

This led to the discovery of a tumour the size of a cherry tomato, and a rather pressing need to undergo major neurosurgery. The experience has left him with a story to tell and a few things that he’d like to share you.,, milesjupp.co.uk

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The Agenda

JA N UA RY ' S H OT T E ST H A P P E N I N G S

EV E NT

The Legends of Snooker

24 January ALBAN ARENA It’s time for a break as legends of snooker head back out on tour again and arrive in St Albans this month. On 24 January join Ken Doherty, John Virgo, Dennis Taylor, John Parrott and Steve Davis for this unmissable night. Tales from "The Crucible", their World Championship wins, the glory days of snooker and never before heard stories from on and off the table, plus there will be an audience led Q&A. alban-arena.co.uk

AURORA JELLIES BY AUDUN RIKARDSEN, NORWAY

P H OTO G R A P H Y

Wildlife Photographer Letchworth: Lives & Landscapes of the Year ART

U NTI L 3 0 JU NE , NATU RA L H ISTORY MUSEUM

More than 50,000 images are entered into the Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition every year, but their panel of judges can only select 100 finalists. A further 25 memorable images from this year’s entries have been shortlisted by the judges and the Natural History Museum and now the public are invited to vote for their favourite. Voting closes on 31 January 2024, and the winner will be announced in February. nhm.ac.uk

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Until 6 January B R OA D WAY G A L L E R Y Letchworth: Lives and Landscapes brings together a number of rarely seen paintings from the town’s ACE-Accredited museum and archive, the Garden City Collection.

The exhibition explores the lives of some of Letchworth’s most notable residents and tells the stories of the town's fascinating unique history. Visitors can enjoy works by renowned artists such as Spencer Gore, Sylvia Molloy and Sarah Birch. broadway-gallery.com

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CULTURE • DIARY ART

ARTIST ROOMS Until 25 February NORTH HERTS MUSEUM Diane Arbus comes to North Herts Museum, celebrating the enduring influence of this iconic photographer with an exhibition that marks the centenary of her birth. This is a rare opportunity to see work by one of the most original and influential photographers of the 20th century.

The exhibition draws from the remarkable collection of Arbus’s work in ARTIST ROOMS, featuring some of her most iconic black and white portraits. North Herts is the final and most southerly venue in this nationwide tour. northhertsmuseum.org Diane Arbus The King and Queen of a Senior Citizens’ Dance, N.Y.C. 1970.

ARTIST ROOMS Tate and National Galleries of Scotland © The Estate of Diane Arbus

F I L M

NAPOLEON

This Month’s Must See

3-5 January T H E O DY S S E Y Ridley Scott’s period drama tells the story of Napoleon Bonaparte’s rise to power through the prism of his volatile relationship with his wife and one true love, Josephine. Joaquin Phoenix is the emperor; Vanessa Kirby is Josephine and Rupert Everett is Wellington. It’s the perfect platform for the director to be reunited with his Gladiator star Phoenix and shows Scott at the height of his powers, telling an intimate story against the vast canvas of a turbulent Europe. odysseypictures.co.uk

Chris McCausland

Y

19 JA NUARY, WATFORD PALACE THEATRE

ou might have seen Chris McCausland on Scared of the Dark, Would I Lie to You, Have I Got News for You, The Royal Variety, QI, Blankety Blank, The Last Leg, and plenty more as well. He’s been called an “overnight success” – even though he’s been doing this for yonks. Chris is hitting the road again with another masterclass in standup comedy that has literally been yonks in the making.

Best in SHOW

Head to the capital for the finest in art from our doorstep to around the world

London Art Fair 2023 Photo by Mark Cocksedge

The London Art Fair returns from 17-21 January 2024, highlighting a selection of the best galleries from the UK and beyond. The fair will offer both seasoned and aspiring collectors a diverse presentation of modern and contemporary art, alongside curated displays, and an inspiring programme of talks, tours and performances.

In addition, London Art Fair continues to champion and support regional museums through its annual Museum Partnership, which this year invites Charleston, once home to the 20th century’s most pioneering artists, writers and thinkers, to showcase their unique collection of art, textiles and ceramics at the fair.

This year will see the participation of over 120 galleries from around the

Pauline Marcelle, Take My Picture, 2023.

Courtesy of Common Sense Gallery

world, including Japan, Portugal and Turkey, with new exhibitors Bluerider Art, Stowe Arthouse Gallery, and Liss Llewellyn; alongside returning names such as Gilden’s Art Gallery, Jill George Gallery and Jonathan Clarke. The fair will feature work by some of the world’s most renowned artists working across a variety of media, including sculpture, prints, paintings, photography and ceramics, from artists including Francis Bacon, Andy Warhol, and David Hockney. londonartfair.co.uk

watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk

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Art

FORM Esteemed artist Rana Begum reflects on early life in Hertfordshire, as well as her new exhibition currently on display in St Albans B y K AT E J O N E S

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pen to the public at St Albans Museum + Gallery and curated by University of Hertfordshire Arts + Culture, Rana Begum’s Ordered Form exhibition is focused on the celebrated artist’s repetitive geometric patterns and the interaction between form, colour, shape and light. Concentrated on geometric works produced by Rana over the last few years, it encompasses a number of art forms, with paintings, sculptures, screenprints and relief works all available to view. Sketches, studio experiments, maquettes and a panel painting installation created specially for the exhibition are also on display, while the site-specific No. 670 Mesh will be on show from 20 January.

“The exhibition is very much geometry based, but it also looks at colour and the different strands and exploration in my work at the moment,” explains Rana, who spent much of her early life in St Albans and whose education includes St Albans Girls’ School and the University of Hertfordshire (UH). “I’m thinking about layers as well, and colour interaction. I would say there are four or five different strands in the show that give you an idea of what’s happening in the studio and what I’m thinking about.”

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Featured in collections including the Government Art Collection and that of the Ashmolean Museum, the artist is renowned for her work that includes painting, architecture and sculpture, with her practice looking at the interplay between colour, light, shape and form.

She is influenced by the geometric abstraction of minimalism and constructivism, and her use of repetitive geometric patterns with her language of minimalist abstraction is said to produce a visual and spatial experience. Inspired by the urban environment and childhood memories of the patterns of traditional Islamic art and architecture, Rana uses materials like aluminium, glass and stainless steel to create sculptures and reliefs exploring geometry, light and colour.

“I love the fact that you can go somewhere like Beirut or Bangkok and you can start seeing the similar language or directional geometry that is used,” she says. “Squares, circles, rectangles – these are all basic geometry that everyone around the world recognises, and I feel that they bring down barriers, if you like. With my work, I’d say you don’t necessarily need to understand abstract or minimalist work to really experience it. I feel that for anyone that’s interested in a visual interaction or

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PHOTO: ANGUS MILL

CULTURE • INTERVIEW

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CULTURE • INTERVIEW

RANA BEGUM STUDYING AT UNIVERSITY OF HERTFORDSHIRE

RANA BEGUM WITH HER FAMILY

sensation, as they walk around my work or look at my work, they’ll see things that connect to their experiences in daily life.”

Rana was born in a village near the Bangladeshi city of Sylhet, moving to Hertfordshire with her family when she was eight-years-old. “When I first came to the UK, it was to St Albans,” she says. “I went to a school where I struggled to speak the language, and I remember it being quite tough.”

The Royal Academician notes that art was a form of communication for her when she moved to the UK. “I realised that I didn’t necessarily have the vocabulary to express or articulate what I wanted to say, and I felt the art did that for me,” she recalls. “When I started off as an artist, my work was very figurative and more representational, and then later on, it got more and more abstract and minimal.”

However, Rana also has positive memories

“My teachers really saw something in me that I didn't realise”

of her early life in St Albans. “I loved the fact that I had jobs where I was able to build up friendship outside of school, as I had various jobs part-time,” she notes.

“From a very young age, I also had incredible teachers,” she adds. “At secondary school, Mrs Morley and Mrs Insley were the two art teachers that I had, and they were amazing. If I hadn’t had their support, I don’t think I’d be where I am now in my career – they really saw something in me that I didn’t realise. Mrs Booth and Mrs Morley [even] came over to my house to convince my parents to let me study further.”

Before gaining an undergraduate degree in fine art from Chelsea College of Arts and a master’s degree in painting from Slade School of Fine Art, Rana undertook an art foundation course at UH. She describes her experience studying here as “incredible”.

“I was so wowed by all the different possibilities of art,” she remembers. “Every little thing I did I wanted to go into in depth,

RANA BEGUM, NO. 670 MESH, 2016. AT SAINSBURY CENTRE © ANDY CROUCH

and it made it really difficult at the end of the foundation course to choose what I wanted to do. I realised that doing a degree in painting gave me the freedom whereby if I wanted to go into sculpture, I could, and if I wanted to go into photography or printmaking, I could, whereas if I did something else, it would be quite limiting. I knew that even at that point, I wanted to be able to draw on those different disciplines in the creative industry, and it has made it easier for me to collaborate with musicians, designers and architects.”

Now living in London and speaking ahead of the exhibition, Rana says that while it feels strange returning to St Albans for the show (which is supported by Arts Council England and extended through resources and events like artist talks and live workshops), it is something she is looking forward to. “Normally, I come and see my family and then I whizz back – I don’t get a chance to hang out any more,” she says. “It’ll be nice to spend a little bit more time in St Albans and see faces that I haven’t seen for a very long time.”

Rana Begum: Ordered Form runs until 14 April at St Albans Museum + Gallery, with No. 670 Mesh available to view from 20 January-17 March. stalbansmuseums.org.uk

RANA BEGUM, NO.1141 ZIGZAG, 2022 © MAXWELL ANDERSON

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CULTURE • PROFILE

ALICE IS AN AMBASSADOR OF CENTURION CLUB

Q Growing up in Hemel Hempstead,

was golf a part of your life?

A Golf has always been a big part of my

GET TO KNOW…

ALICE HEWSON P R O F E S S I O N A L G O L F E R A N D A M B A S SA D O R O F C E N T U R I O N C LU B I N H E R T F O R D S H I R E

life. I started lessons at six-years-old and played my first ever tournament on my 7th birthday. I was really lucky that I lived so close to a golf course and I think that had a big impact on my golf.

I loved going to group lessons where we learned not just about playing golf, but about all the rules and etiquettes that are part of the game. Being able to complete individual tasks and games really drove me to want to get better and move onto the next level. I was very competitive!

Q Did you have many opportunities to

play competitively at an early age?

A My first tournament was quite a funny

experience. It was on my 7th birthday and the tournament gave me a cake! My first ever competitive golf shot was a complete air shot – luckily my golf has improved a little since then! It turns out this tournament was a qualifier for a national tournament and I made it through. This really fuelled my competitive fire and I just wanted to keep competing more and more.

Q When did you first realise you may

actually be something special?

A I enjoyed a pretty successful amateur

career and made a pretty normal progression A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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CULTURE • PROFILE THE COURSE AT CENTURION

FOOD SERVED AT CENTURION CLUB

THE COURTYARD AT CENTURION

“I can literally spend hours out on the Centurion Club course” through the tiers starting playing for my club and county all the way to playing for England/GB&I until I turned pro.

I first played for England at 14, was part of many winning home international teams, a winning Curtis Cup team and two European team championships. After graduating from Clemson university (South Carolina) I went on to win the European amateur championship before turning pro.

ALICE TAKES A SWING

Q What are your career highlights?

A My rookie year on tour was 2020, which

we all know was a pretty crazy year! I only played one event before the country was shut down due to Covid. We were in South Africa when everything was really kicking off – midway through our first round other events started to get cancelled. There was so much stuff going on off the golf course that on the course I was able to just relax and I actually went on to win the event! It was just a surreal start to my pro career. There was so much media straight after the tournament and then a rush to try and make it back to the UK before the lockdown hit. I think I was actually the last flight into the UK before people had to go into the mandatory quarantine.

Life on tour has been slightly easier since then!

Now we actually get to explore a little bit when we’re at events and I’ve been to so many cool new countries that I never imagined going to.

Q When did you first become

involved with Centurion Club?

A I first became involved with Centurion

Club back in 2021. I grew up less than 10 minutes from the club and I had always heard amazing things about the course and club as a whole. Once I turned pro it became really apparent that I needed to have great facilities to practice and play at if I wanted to keep taking my golf up a level. We get to play so many great courses on tour and to be able to play on an elite level course week in, week out was something I was really keen to do.

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Q How would you sum up their facilities?

A My favourite thing about the facilities is the

19th hole. The space can be used for so many different things and I can literally spend hours out there whether it’s doing bunker shots of different lengths, chipping and pitching all the way up to full shots. I feel my par 3 play has improved a lot from being able to practice different shots to a variety of pin positions.

Q Why did you want to be an

ambassador for them?

A I love being able to represent Centurion Club

out on tour. I have so much pride when the Aramco Team Series LET event comes to the club and the whole tour can get to see what a great place I get to play and practice at. I also love that the members all get to come out and watch and they can see a little bit of what life on tour is like.

Q What are your hopes for 2024 and beyond?

A For the most part 2023 was a good year. I had

some of my best results to date including a T16 at the Womens Open at Walton Heath, my best result ever in a major. Given I was +8 through 8 holes I battled hard to get back to +2 to make the cut on the number and then finish the week under par. I had so many great experiences out on tour and visited so many new countries last year. I am really looking forward to next season where my goals will be to try and get another win and to try to get my LPGA tour card.

@alicehewson97 / centurionclub.co.uk

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CULTURE • WILDLIFE

TA K I N G

FLIGHT Returning for its 45th year, find out how you can take part in the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch

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he RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch is the largest garden wildlife survey in the world and takes place every January, this year on 26th, 27th and 28th. Participants spend an hour counting the birds in their garden, balcony or local park.

Over half a million people took part in 2023, counting more than nine million birds.

This year’s event marks 45 years since the first Big Garden Birdwatch.

Starting in 1979, it has become a muchloved annual citizen science event that gives the RSPB a valuable snapshot of how garden birds are doing in the UK.

THE WINNERS AND LOSERS The Big Garden Birdwatch allows a large volume of data about garden birds to be recorded from across the UK, meaning trends in populations can be identified that might otherwise go unnoticed. House

Sparrows, for example, celebrated their 20th year as the number one bird spotted in UK gardens in 2023. While nearly 1.5 million were recorded, this species has sadly suffered severe declines. In fact, the number spotted in gardens has dropped by nearly 60% since the Birdwatch first began in 1979.

Over its four decades, the Big Garden Birdwatch has highlighted the winners and losers in the garden bird world. The Longtailed Tit, a much-loved species, rose five positions in the rankings last year, with numbers 39% higher than in 2022. This species is easily recognised with its distinctive colouring, small body and a long tail, which can be up to 9cm in length. Both males and females are black, white and pale pink, with distinctive white crowns. However, Longtailed Tits are susceptible to harsh weather conditions, with the numbers recorded fluctuating since the Birdwatch began.

Meanwhile, Greenfinches and Chaffinches

have been badly affected by a disease known as Trichomonosis. As a result, the UK Chaffinch population has declined by 37% over the last decade, while Greenfinches have declined by 62% over the same time frame.

HOW TO TAKE PART IN THE RSPB BIG GARDEN BIRDWATCH Sign up to the Big Garden Birdwatch at rspb. org.uk then watch the birds in your garden, balcony, or local green space for one hour at some point between 26-28 January. Only count the birds that land and record the highest number of each species you see at any one time. Then submit your results, and even if you see no birds at all, it’s all valuable data.

To receive your free Big Garden Birdwatch guide, which includes a bird identification chart, top tips for your birdwatch, plus advice on how to attract wildlife to your garden, text BIRD to 82727 or visit rspb.org.uk/Birdwatch A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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FOOD & DRINK

YOU WILL BE SERVED THE BEDFORD ARMS

Nestled in the heart of the Chilterns, The Bedford Arms is not just a pub – it’s a piece of history dating back to the 15th century. It’s now open after a fresh lick of paint (and an extensive refurbishment) and culinary maestros have crafted a menu of delectable dishes, showcasing the best of British seasonal ingredients, including a Sunday lunch menu to banish any post-January blues. bedfordarms.co.uk

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JOÃO CHITAS

The perfect

MIX

Take one of our finest hotels, add a dash of London’s cocktail scene, and you have the Octagon Bar. Absolutely finds out more

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FOOD & DRINK • INTERVIEW

“Expect 12 signature serves, influenced by stories of Sopwell House”

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he Octagon Bar at Sopwell House is something Hertfordshire has arguably not seen before. The venue boasts an ornate marble topped-bar accompanied by leather bar stools, vintage glass backed bar, and comfortable bar seating for couples and intimate groups. Authentic French doors stand to the side of the bar, offering views of the hotel’s picturesque front lawns.

Accessed via a towering archway, an adjacent lounge features high ceilings, large velvet armchairs and two statement fireplaces, feature lighting and views out to the grounds from stained glass windows. This is even before you get on to the cocktail menu.

Absolutely pulled up a pew, ordered a drink and chatted to the man behind it, João Chitas.

Q When did you first develop an interest in mixology?

A I first developed an interest in mixology when I moved to the UK from Portugal in 2010. My first position was at a bar back at The Soho Hotel and as my passion for mixology grew, so did my career. What fascinated me the most about mixology was the art of mixing spirits in such a way to create unique flavours and cocktails that are bespoke to each individual.

Q What kind of training do you have to

undertake to be a master of mixing?

A My training happened over the course of

a decade, learning first hand, and working alongside, some of the greatest mixologists in the industry. Daniel Miles, my first manager in the industry, taught me how to make the perfect Sours; Pawel Matysiak, a

great mixologist, taught me how to create a balanced bespoke drink; and Salvatore Calabrese, despite only working with him for a short time at Salvatores Bar at Playboy Club, showed me how professionality, sophistication and elegance can be infused into the bar industry. A special mention to Frederico Pinto (Freddy), who influenced me to become a part of this industry; without his influence I would not be here.

Q Tell us about your first job at The Soho Hotel…

A It was a fast-paced environment, where I was surrounded by experienced bartenders who taught me how to be organized, how to offer great customer service, and how to perform under pressure.

I was forced to learn very quickly.

Q Pre-Octagon Bar, what would you say

have been your career highlights and why?

A A career highlight for me was working as

a manager at the Met bar in Mayfair, as it was my first experience as a bar manager.

Working at Salvatore’s at Playboy Club is also an highlight, as it was the most luxurious and sophisticated bar I’ve ever worked.

Q What attracted you to the

role at Sopwell House?

A I was excited to have the opportunity

to open my second bar and bring the London cocktail scene to Hertfordshire.

Q How would you describe Octagon Bar? A A touch of “Claridges” in St Alban’s –

bringing elegance, sophistication and the London cocktail scene to Hertfordshire.

Q What is on the cocktail menu?

A On the Octagon Bar menu you will find

a curated list of classic and signature cocktails, as well as a creative list of mocktails. Expect 12 signature serves, each influenced by stories of Sopwell House’s evolution and its royal guests.

Q Do you have a personal favourite cocktail?

A I enjoy a classic Pisco sour and from

our menu the “Great Fire of London” – a twist on the classic Tommy’s Margarita with a touch of Japanese spices.

Q What kind of experience do you want to offer visitors to Octagon Bar? A I want our guests to come and enjoy unique cocktails without having to travel into London, served by a welcoming and passionate team in the cosy surrounds of Octagon Bar.

sopwellhouse.co.uk

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Renowned for our handmade kitchens, but also create stunning bespoke furniture for other rooms in your home

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FOOD & DRINK • NOTES

DRINKS CABINET What to drink this month

By PENDLE HARTE

TOP TIPPLES SPOTLIGHT

SW E E T I E S Sweeties is The Standard Hotel's cocktail bar, discotheque and latenight lounge bringing playful drinks and glorious misbehaviour to the top floor. Think sweet sips and indulgent cocktails surrounded by floorto-ceiling views and a good time soundtrack from an ever-evolving DJ line-up. This one hits the spot.

The ultimate Negroni

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I

London Negroni with a twist

f someone would ask you to name the 10 most popular cocktails of all time, the Negroni is always in there. It was invented in 1919 by Count Camillo Negroni when he asked for an Americano, but with gin instead of soda water, at Caffé Casoni in Florence. It’s one of the simplest cocktails there is - equal parts of bitter, vermouth and gin. It’s fun to use this as the base and adapt depending on your mood – subbing in the gin for whiskey, vodka or even mezcal. This twist on a negroni uses vodka, cynar (a bittersweet Italian liqueur) and lillet rouge for a sweeter twist on a negroni, but still a balanced version of the original.

SPRITZ AND SOUR P O M E L LO Made from fresh and natural ingredients that are delicately sweet yet with a gentle bitterness, Pomello is extremely versatile and can be made into Spritz, Margarita, Martini or a Sour, making it the perfect bottle to gift as well as the perfect tipple to celebrate the new year, £33.

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INGREDIENTS

CALIFORNIA SPIRIT G I N AGA I N

Ginagain London Dry Gin brings the warmth of California's Central Valley to England with organic Californian orange peel, specifically imported for distillation, and a spicy cubeb pepper berry finish. Produced in small batches to preserve the orange flavour, Ginagain is a wonderful alternative for lovers of pink gins looking to try something new.

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• 25ml Ketel One Vodka • 25ml Cynar bitter aperitif • 25ml Lillet Rouge • Orange peel, for garnishing

METHOD 1 Add all the ingredients into a mixing glass with ice, and stir until perfectly chilled.

2 Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice and garnish with orange peel.

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HEALTH & BEAUTY S

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In this sect ion N O D R A M A D E T O X 44 V E G A N U A R Y T I P S 47

FIND yourself

B E A U T Y N E W S 51 F I T N E S S N O T E S 53 T R A V E L G E T A W A Y 59

THE GROVE Sequoia Spa at The Grove have announced retreat days including Power Hour with Adrienne Herbert, Bamford breathwork and yoga retreats. January sees the first two of these, starting on 6 January with Bamford Candlelit Yin Yoga. This 60-minute restorative session of yin yoga will relax and replenish through postures held for 3–5 minutes to release tension in joints and allow the body to rest passively, calming the nervous system. Then on 19-20 January it is the Power Hour Retreat with Adrienne Herbert. Adrienne invites guests to build a growth mindset, form good habits, and understand the importance of daily movement. thegrove.co.uk

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INSIDE S

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An expert from Natural Health in Hertford writes about how you can detox without the drama

By JULIE GOODWIN

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • FOCUS

T

he January detox has become somewhat of a post-Christmas institution in its own right. A popular way to repent for festive excess and indulgence, the detox industry is estimated to be worth millions. But can detoxing be bad for you?

BENEFITS OF DETOX

From fasting to sacrificing solid food in favour of super-green smoothies, the idea of a detox is very simple – you’re aiming to rid the body of all those nasty toxins and chemicals that have built up over the course of your celebratory drinks and meals in December. If you can get rid of these chemicals, your body is supposed to be cleansed and you’re meant to feel reinvigorated and revitalised with the added bonus of shedding a few pounds along the way.

Can detoxing be bad for you? Spoiler alert…

None of the benefits of a detox are actually backed by science, at least when it comes to getting toxins and pollutants out of your system. There are also many aspects of a detox regime that can be problematic for your health.

You could become deficient in certain nutrients. Drinking green smoothies and lemon water every day may sound healthy, but in reality can lead to some significant deficiencies in nutrients such as protein and fibre. This is because juicing vegetables, as opposed to eating them in their solid form, strips away the fibre and increases the content of fructose, the natural sugar found in fruit.

Your blood sugar levels will suffer. A high fructose, low fibre diet can seriously upset blood sugar and energy levels. You may find that one moment you feel fabulous and full of life, but an hour later you’re slumped over your desk, exhausted. This is because fructose is raising your blood sugar before it rapidly crashes. This type of oscillation isn’t good for your energy levels and it can wreak havoc with sleep patterns and encourage unhealthy food cravings.

Your stomach might become a bit distressed. Bloating, gas, diarrhoea and

constipation are just a few of the symptoms that may crop up during a detox. If your gut is protesting to your new dietary habits, it’s definitely time to ditch the purge.

A healthy eating plan should be sustainable and enjoyable. If you’re able to tick these boxes, you’re more likely to stay the distance and see real results.

1. EAT MORE FRESH FOODS What you need are fresh, organic options. Brightly coloured fruit and leafy green vegetables are bursting with antioxidants and fibre, and you want to retain these good nutrients as much as possible. Make an effort to prep your own meals and keep your diet varied.

2. SUPPORT YOUR GUT If you keep this crucial system working efficiently, you shouldn’t need to detox – a happy gut will take care of getting rid of nasty toxins and impurities. A prebiotic and probiotic combination is one of the best ways to support your friendly gut bacteria. Gut friendly prebiotics like Molkosan Fruit Digestion? help to feed your probiotics and create a healthy environment for them to flourish in.

3. KEEP MOVING Moderate, regular exercise is key to a healthy lifestyle; it speeds up the rate at which your body breaks down fat and expels toxins, and is great for your mental health.

Remember to rehydrate. You lose water and electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium, when you work up a sweat.

Keep these and other minerals in balance with A.Vogel’s Balance Mineral Drink. A delicious-tasting, strawberry-flavoured postworkout drink, it provides magnesium, zinc,

potassium, calcium and vitamin D to help reduce fatigue, improve energy, replace lost electrolytes and support muscle function.

4. GET A GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP Your body relies on you getting a good night’s sleep in order to rest, repair, and, yes, detox! Research has found that while you sleep, waste products are removed from your brain, supporting your cognitive function. It’s also worth noting that sleep deprivation can inspire symptoms such as stress, digestive flare-ups and can even make you more prone to unhealthy food cravings.

Having trouble nodding off? A natural sleep remedy can help. A.Vogel Dormeasan® Sleep with fresh Valerian and Hops can help you get to sleep and also stay in the deeper stages of sleep for longer. Take 30 drops in a little water half an hour before bedtime.

5. HELP YOURSELF TO SOME HERBS Water, cleansing herbs and teas, and spices are of course perfectly healthy in moderation. There are plenty of detox teas to choose from. Bitter herbs can also help.

Try incorporating chicory, endive, rocket and dandelion leaves into your diet. Dandelion leaves act as a gentle diuretic, which helps encourage the excretion of toxins from the body, and dandelion root helps with bile secretion, and can therefore be particularly useful for people with gall bladder issues.

Globe artichoke is classed as ‘bitter’ too, with research showing it can help the functions of the liver. And of course milk thistle is a firm favourite when it comes to liver support.

For further information, visit Julie Goodwin and her team at Natural Health, 4 Old Cross, Hertford SG14 1RB, or online at naturaltherapycentre.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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•FOOD HEALTH XXXXXXXX & BEAUTY• XXXXX

Don't MISS OUT Absolutely Hertfordshire’s top tips to enjoy a healthy Veganuary

I

f you’re thinking of giving Veganuary a go this year, there are some essential ‘need to knows’ to make sure you don’t miss out on vital hidden nutrients in your food. After all, food is the fuel that makes our biology work for us.

Herts based, award-winning nutritionist, gut health specialist and a star of our last issue, Dr Lucy Williamson, provides some tips on what to look out for if you are dramatically changing your diet in the short term, or plan to remain vegan for the long haul.

“More and more people join the Veganuary movement every year; some people will be converted to veganism by the end of the month, others will revert back to a more flexitarian diet come 1 February,” she says.

“Either way, we all need to make sure that our bodies are fed the necessary nutrients to make them function at their best. There are some nutrients for which the easiest available source is animalbased, but nature is a wonderful thing, and generally a plant-based alternative is available as are natural supplements, which you will need to bridge nutrient gaps.”

OMEGA 3

Fish remains by far our best source of this essential heart-healthy oil, which also protects us from inflammation in our body.

We can get Omega 3 from plants; flaxseed and walnuts are good sources, but our body is much less efficient at processing

Omega 3 from plants, so I would always recommend including a natural supplement like an algal oil in your daily diet.

HIDDEN IODINE IN FISH AND DAIRY

We don’t hear much about iodine, but it’s essential for the unborn baby right through to our senior years. It ensures good brain development during pregnancy, healthy growth in childhood and is needed for our thyroid gland to work well, impacting energy and weight control in adulthood. One glass of cow’s milk gives us half our daily requirement as well as fish being a wonderful source, so when going vegan consider taking a seaweed supplement to boost your levels.

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • FOOD

“Eating a variety of plants is vital for gut health”

BEWARE ULTRA PROCESSED FOODS

There is now an array of plant-based alternatives to animal foods on our supermarket shelves, but make sure to check the labels as many of these foods are also very processed. It’s easy to think we’re doing the right thing by choosing food from the ‘plant-based’ section, but these foods often contain many additives and lose the benefit of a ‘whole food’ – nutrients in whole foods work together to help us absorb and digest them well. Instead, follow some fabulous vegan recipes at home using lovely whole foods like lentils, beans and seasonal fruit and veg.

CALCIUM

We can absorb calcium from dairy better than any other food so when following a vegan diet, always choose a fortified plant drink or better still, enjoy calcium naturally present in food like a dish of overnight soaked oats for breakfast, or including plenty of pulses and brassicas like watercress.

Calcium is of course vital for children during growth and dairy provides them with the protein, iodine and calcium they need for this. Similarly, through the challenges of menopause, low oestrogen leaves us susceptible to poor bone strength, meaning calcium becomes even more important.

48

IRON

With high requirements during childhood and teenage years (for puberty), pregnancy and senior age (for muscle strength), it’s helpful to know that iron from plants is very hard for our body to absorb. Food combining can be helpful here – tomatoes with spinach or watercress with pulses for example. Kidney beans, cashew nuts, lentils and brassicas are all good sources, but only if eating Vitamin C at the same time.

This is because Vitamin C converts the plant iron into a form that is more easily absorbable.

NURTURE YOUR GUT

Eating a variety of plants is vital for gut health, but nutrient-rich, minimally processed whole foods, animal or otherwise, have an important role too. These ensure we get all the hidden nutrients in our food, high fibre, low sugar and with few artificial additives like emulsifiers, which play havoc with our gut health. Our gut microbes make some Vitamin B12 for us, but not enough to replace that gained from a flexitarian diet, so for Veganuary, a Vitamin B12 supplement is vital.

So, as we head into Veganuary, follow these steps to make sure your health thrives at the same time as doing some good for the animals and the planet.

Find out more at lwnutrition.co.uk

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

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I’m in to see Dr Paris Acharya for the ‘GlowGetter’ facial, and she tells me it’s perfect for targeting sun damage and pigmentation – leaving the skin brighter, tighter, and hydrated.

Dr Paris calls the treatment a ‘skin cocktail’, as it uses WOW fusion 24K gold plated needling to insert a tailored blend of ingredients into the epidermal and dermal junction of the skin.

As I lie back on the bed, she deftly works away, explaining that the treatment delivers a bespoke blend of vitamins including B complex, C and E; alongside minerals such as calcium and magnesium, the antioxidant glutathione, amino acids and hyaluronic acid for maximum results. The antioxidants target sun damage, repairing the skin from within.

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • FITNESS

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Frances Brown's top two Pilates exercises to get you moving this new year CAT STRETCH

The Cat Stretch (top) encourages more mobility/flexibility and less stiffness in the spine. This results in articulating and creating space between the vertebrae, opening the spinal canal to benefit those with stenosis of the spine. It also improves bone density (as is with all Pilates exercises) in the wrists, hips, spine and for those with osteoporosis.

All this leads to improved posture, less tension and pain in the neck and shoulder.

Starting in four-point kneeling – hands underneath your shoulders and knees underneath your hips.

Gently flex your neck by dropping your chin towards your chest at the same time arching (flexing) the rest of your spine into a C curve. Keep your abdominals and ribcage pulled in. Then slowly move into the opposite

position extending your head and neck gently forward and upwards, whilst at the same time allowing the rest of your spine to drop down into an extended position. Note: take care not to hyper extend the neck or lower back. Repeat a few times.

DOWNWARD DOG STRETCH

Downward dog (above right) is a full body stretch which also strengthens the upper body as it is a weight-bearing exercise and engages your midsection to help build strong abdominal muscles. It improves posture, straightens your vertebrae, aligns your spine, stimulates blood flow and fine tunes the smaller muscles in your feet.

Get down on all fours. Start on the floor with your hands shoulder-width apart, with your

shoulders above your wrists.

Align your inner shoulders with your index fingers. Your hips should be above or slightly before your knees. Lift your knees.

Next, tuck your toes against the mat or ground, using that leverage to extend your legs and lift both knees into the air.

Extend and lengthen your spine, simultaneously pressing through the palms of your hands and balls of your feet. Stretch your hips back and up toward the ceiling and draw your shoulder blades back and down. Hold your body in position, making sure to breathe properly. Slowly bring your knees back to the floor to release. Repeat a few times.

Sign up for a course at Frans Fitness Pilates today. New courses commence from 5 Jan 2024 – see more at fransfitnesspilates.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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The perfect blend of compassionate care and luxury living Person-centred care is at the very heart of Signature’s ethos. Our empathetic care teams provide both high quality practical care and day-to-day companionship, while our flexible, tailored care plans grow and change with your needs, supporting independent living for as long as possible.

We have dedicated communities for those living with dementia, offering an environment that supports independent living for as long as possible. Our exclusive My Life pathway, developed by our Head of Dementia Care, helps residents to live well with dementia, providing peace of mind for loved ones.

Come and meet the team for yourself and get a sense of what life is like at Signature.

Contact our Client Liaison Manager on 01992 721942 to arrange your visit.

Join us for tea and cake EV ERY TUES DAY IN OUR C AFÉ 11A M - 1PM

We look forward to seeing you.

SIGNATU RE AT BEN T L EY H O U S E

Pegs Lane, Hertford, Hertfordshire SG13 8EG enquiries.bentleyhouse@signaturesl.co.uk

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • PARTNERSHIP

“The psychological shift in embracing curls is powerful”

B OUNC ING

BAC K I Hertfordshirebased trichologist, Trisha Buller, on the returning favourite that looks set to be the key hair trend in 2024

must admit, this is very exciting news: hair trends predicted for 2024 are being dominated by curls. Last year was declared “the year of the curls”, so we are predicting that this trend will continue, with more curls creating natural looks in 2024.

When I began my hairdressing training back in the 1970s, the fashion was predominantly based on volume hair, and the start of the perming era (perm being the abbreviation of ‘permanent wave’). Perming was an integral part of your hairdressing apprenticeship. I was honoured to attend the L’Oreal Academy Perming School, located in Berkeley Square, London. It was a proud moment for me achieving first place after my four-day training, and I was delighted as perming was a real passion of mine.

The science behind the hair structure is quite incredible, to be able transform straight fine hair into body and volume with cascading bouncy curls.

Chemically, perming the hair can be risky if not carried out by a professional, as there is

always a risk that it can cause hair breakage and dehydrate the hair structure. However, with the right guidance by a qualified hairdresser, all this can be avoided.

Over recent months it’s been teenage boys who are adorning natural curls, and as statistics show, less than 20% of people have naturally curly hair, so it is no surprise they’re turning to chemically perming their hair to create the naturally curly effect.

The fashion is for casual natural curls on the top, keeping the sides and nape shorter with cleaner lines. I love to see the confidence with today’s youth, embracing new fashion trends, and really caring about the way they look. The psychological shift in embracing curls is powerful.

The Ciente team are trained in all aspects of hairdressing so have really enjoyed being creative and producing fabulous natural curls. Unlike in my time of training, curls are not just for females and older ladies wanting body and volume. It exudes a fiery spirit and the desire to stand out from the crowd as an individual expressing who they are.

It makes a huge difference to your self-confidence when you feel happy with your style, and image. So, we’re embracing the natural curls and look forward to creating your signature look for 2024.

To book your consultation call Ciente Hair Health Spa on 01442 877273 or book online at ciente.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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PHILIP MARTIN - EXCLUSIVE TO C I E N T E H A I R H E A LT H S PA BERKHAMSTED

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • PARTNERSHIP

scenic trails of the South Downs National Park, perfect for hiking and cycling. For thrill-seekers, the nearby Goodwood Estate, home to the world-famous Goodwood Festival of Speed, boasts a range of activities, including go-karting, horse riding, and even hot air balloon rides.

CULTURAL KICKS

BREAK FROM THE NORM Discover the charm of West Wittering and West Sussex: a perfect destination for the whole family

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est Wittering beach has been a family favourite for generations.

Soft golden sands, a balmy microclimate and ideal conditions for watersports put it firmly on the map of Great Britain’s best beaches.

It’s not just the beach though that has those in the know returning year after year.

Picture chocolate-box countryside dotted with historic towns and villages; a wine region renowned for its exquisite sparkling, often compared to the finest Champagne; rolling hills, endless hiking trails and breathtaking views; and culture in abundance. This idyllic region is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.

BEACH DAYS The crown jewel is six and a half miles of beach to explore. Stretching from the National Trust’s East Head, a haven for bird watchers

and dog walkers; through the powder soft sands of West Wittering where families picnic and play beach cricket; and down to the shingle beaches of East Wittering and Bracklesham Bay where kids boogie board in the shallow surf at low tide, and adrenaline seeking kite and wind surfers power through the waves whatever the weather.

ADVENTURE AWAITS Beyond the beach, West Sussex boasts an array of outdoor activities. Explore the

West Sussex is steeped in history and culture, providing endless opportunities for family-friendly outings. Adventure through Britain’s naval past at the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard; delight in some jousting at an Arundel Castle medieval festival; battle with the Gladiators at Fishbourne Roman Palace; journey through time at the Weald & Downland Living Museum; be awe-inspired by the architecture of Chichester Cathedral or enjoy some drama at the Chichester Festival Theatre.

GASTRONOMIC DELIGHTS Sussex boasts over 50 vineyards, more than any other region in the UK. Each offer visitors a unique experience from wine tasting and fine dining to vineyard tours and learning experiences. The topography, which rivals the champagne producing regions of France combined with the climate, creates perfect growing conditions, hence the huge number of quality vineyards to explore. If you love food with your wine the area boasts a wealth of fabulous pubs and restaurants, serving quality local produce.

LUXURY STAYS To find the best holiday properties to rent in the area, check out Wellies & Windbreaks.

Beach-front, hot tub, large occupancy, pet friendly, couples’ retreats... whatever you are looking for they have something for every occasion. Wellies & Windbreaks are specialists in the area and know each and every property they manage inside out. Amanda and her small team value a personal approach and love to share their local knowledge so you can enjoy an unforgettable family holiday in this enchanting corner of England.

Facebook: @welliesandwindbreaks Instagram: wellies_and_windbreaks welliesandwindbreaks.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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THOUGHTFUL CRAFTSMANSHIP

KK44860 | Kaare Klint

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The Sideways Sofa from Rikke Frost combines classic materials – wood, paper cord, and highquality upholstery textile – with a modern asymmetric shape.

With a focus on ergonomics and functionality, the KK44860 Side Table is a simple design, displaying traditional craft techniques and highlighting the unique qualities and the beauty of wood.

RF1903 Sideways Sofa, walnut, oil, Hallingdal 0200, £7,445 | KK44860 Side Table, walnut, oil, £1,128 | MO300 Wall Lamp, Powder-Coated Steel, black, £228

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INTERIORS

LI NE UP B E N JA M I N M O O R E

For 2024, Benjamin Moore is suggesting that we use masking tape to play with angles and introduce unexpected geometry to coving in a fearless, eye-catching colour such as this Outrageous Orange. Furniture and accessories in the same shade lock the scheme together. benjaminmoorepaint.co.uk

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Design for

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AMECHI MANDI

How African tradition inspired Amechi Mandi to create a very contemporary look for the home Words P E A R L B OY D

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mechi is a design brand founded by Cameroonianborn product and furniture designer Amechi Mandi.

Amechi is an Igbo name from south eastern Nigeria and means “who knows tomorrow” or “only God knows tomorrow”, and Amechi Mandi is of Nigerian and Cameroonian heritage.

As is the case with most creatives, Amechi was creative before he even knew what it was. Around the early ages of four and five in his hometown of Douala in Cameroon, he can vividly remember how he would draw his mum in the best clothes and stop and stare in amazement at his flamboyantly fashionable neighbour. It was some years later that a drawing Amechi showed his mother led her to declare that he could be a fashion designer himself, and so the dream of following in the footsteps of famous fashion designers began.

Fast forward a few decades, Amechi did not become a fashion designer, but would work in the industry for many years – stylist, buyer, founder of a fashion start-up, and creative director at Voo Store Berlin. Eager to try something different, he left Berlin for London and went back to school for a degree in

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furniture and product design. After passing with flying colours, Amechi spotted a gap in the market and set about launching an interiors brand inspired by his heritage. A brand with a huge exploratory focus on traditional African textiles and cultures indigenous to the continent. Cultures and practices that did not come into existence as a result of colonialism, but which evolved and were selfdetermined by the local people over centuries.

The main idea behind Amechi is to explore indigenous African traditions, textiles and cultures and reimagine them with fresh, fun and exciting items that add character to any contemporary space.

After feeling unsatisfied with the range of West African-inspired home décor currently on offer due to its heavily influenced colonial undertones, he decided to look into the region’s pre-colonial history and make that the focus of the brand identity.

Amechi’s first home collection, Kirdi, is inspired by modesty aprons traditionally worn by the Fali people of northern Cameroon and northern Nigeria.

The aprons were woven in glass beads and came in beautiful geometric patterns and naïve flora and fauna motifs. Hand-drawn and digitally illustrated, the Kirdi scatter cushion designs intricately capture the authentic, ancient art of Kirdi bead working and reimagine this art form in bold, colourful and original prints presented in linen, Tencel and velvet.

As a purpose-driven enterprise, Amechi supports the communities where their inspiration comes from. For the Kirdi collection, they are working with Hupjefi, a Douala, Cameroon-based social enterprise who support young women from struggling

“The idea is to explore indigenous African traditions, textiles and cultures and reimagine them” backgrounds escape the inevitable, like prostitution or from being easy targets to violence.

In collaboration with Floor Story, Waves by Amechi Mandi for Floor_Story is a collection of rugs that take the shape of waved forms, recreating the tranquillity of peacefully crystal-clear lapping water but with a playful twist. The clean, undulating lines of each design are brought to life with vibrant sun filled shades of oranges, pinks and greens, harmoniously set against a backdrop of natural sandy tones. Moving away from the traditional rectangular rug outline, the collection sees overlapping abstract shapes creating beautifully decorative rugs to grace the floor or equally a perfect fit for the wall. amechihome.com

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HOUSE OF HISTORY Exploring the important local story behind this impressive period home with an abundance of character in Hertford

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“A lot of period features remain.

Those of note include high ceilings, lots of detail to the cornicing and impressive fireplaces”

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orth Road House was built in 1827 and is Grade II* listed. Designed by the local architect Thomas Smith, for his own occupation, the house offers superb living spaces with high ceilings and elegant original character features throughout. Absolutely Hertfordshire spoke to Justin Godfrey, director of Savills Bishop’s Stortford, about what makes this property so special.

and Bedfordshire. Among other buildings he designed in Hertford is the County Hospital in North Road.

Q How rare is it for a Grade II* listed property to come to market?

A I’m fortunate that working for Savills I have the privilege of showing lots of beautiful homes. While Grade II* listed properties aren’t particularly rare, they do hold an attraction for certain buyers who like the responsibility of owning and looking after a property of historical importance. Very often these homes will be well known in the local area and have a story to tell. North End House, for example, was built in 1827 by local architect Thomas Smith before becoming home to Annie Swan, a social activist and author who moved to Hertford with her doctor husband in the early 20tsh century.

In her autobiography she left a vivid account of bomb damage to the house in a Zeppelin raid on 13 October 1915, in which the east wing was demolished, the front door was blown out, and the dining room was stripped to lath and plaster.

Q When you enter the property, what is

Q Who was Thomas Smith?

A Smith was an architect who practised in Hertford from the 1820s. He was also county surveyor for Hertfordshire

Q Are there many elements that he introduced

that remain prominent today?

A A lot of the original period features remain. Those of note include high ceilings, lots of detail to the cornicing and impressive fireplaces. Just across the river there is also a folly which Smith designed to look like a gothic ruin. The style and character of the home is exceptional.

the first thing that catches your eye?

A The entrance hall is incredible. Running the length of the house with a classic offset staircase and wonderful vaulted ceiling, there’s a real sense of grandeur. It’s like walking into a stately home.

Q What kind of entertaining spaces

are there throughout the house?

A There are three principal reception rooms, all of which have fireplaces. The kitchen/ breakfast room meanwhile has steps down to a garden room via a pantry and guest cloakroom.

They require some updating, but there is huge potential to enhance the current living space.

Q How would you describe the bedrooms?

A Like many parts of the house the five bedrooms probably require a little modernisation. However they are well proportioned with lots of natural light.

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Q What opportunity does the basement level offer?

A Interestingly, the basement was originally designed as a kitchen, utility area and staff accommodation. Some of the original fireplaces still remain, but currently it’s used for storage and a wine cellar. With good ceiling height, natural light and access to the garden, there is plenty of opportunity to convert the space and create another living area.

Q The gardens look particularly impressive...

A The gardens provide a fascinating talking point. Extending to just over 1.3 acres, it’s rare to find a property with so much outside space so close to the centre of town. There are some wonderful formal lawns within a partly walled area with well-established shrubs and topiary hedging. In the lower part of the garden there is a cast iron bamboo pattern bridge which crosses over a tributary of the River Beane. This leads to another area – flanked on two sides by the river and overlooking a weir and the folly – which would be an ideal place for a summer picnic.

Q Do you have a favourite part of the property?

A The sitting room is lovely. With an extravagantly high ceiling, there’s a beautiful original fireplace, the detail to the cornicing is exquisite and there are some elegant shutters on the full height windows overlooking the gardens.

Q Who would the property suit?

A I would think it would be of interest to a family looking to move from London. Classic period homes similar to North End House would fetch in excess of £10m in somewhere like Eton Square – so it represents good value for money if you’re moving from the capital. You’re in the heart town, yet the gardens provide a tranquil oasis that feels far removed from the hustle and bustle of a long day in the office. We’ve also had interest from local buyers, who have always admired the house and are now looking to move up the housing ladder.

North End House has a guide price of OIEO £2,000,000.

Find out more by contacting Saviolls Bishop’s Stortford on 01279 756800 or visiting savills.co.uk

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A family business who believe the Kitchen is the heart of every family home.

Offering a friendly & personal design, supply and installation service of quality, bespoke kitchens and bedrooms.

Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm. Open by appointment only on Saturday and Sunday.

Any Kitchen, 101a High Street, Stevenage, Herts, SG1 3HR

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INTERIORS • PARTNERSHIP

RECHARGE WITH

ORIGIN

A

How you can swim into serenity

s we step into 2024, the pursuit of holistic wellbeing takes centre stage.

This year, it’s about not just surviving but thriving in every facet of life. This priority comes in various forms; it could mean creating a family haven for enjoyment or crafting a personal sanctuary for relaxation. Fortunately, Origin stands ready to make your well-being dreams a reality.

Swimming isn’t just an activity; it’s a comprehensive approach to both physical and mental well-being.

Numerous studies have illuminated its profound impact on our health.

Regular swimmers have a reduced risk of heart disease, strokes, lower blood pressure, and diminished joint pain.

Remarkably, a SwimEngland study revealed that those who swim regularly felt an average of 12 years younger than their non-swimming counterparts. Swimming transcends mere exercise; it can also be a source of family joy or relaxation. Whatever your perspective, Origin can transform it into your reality.

Imagine having a sauna and steam room alongside your swimming pool, these spaces offer even more exceptional health benefits, including enhanced circulation, improved heart function, lowered disease risk, and effective muscle recovery. The serene and soothing ambience of saunas and steam rooms provides exceptional stress relief, promoting better sleep, overall wellness, and a mood boost through increased blood flow to the brain and the release of endorphins.

Origin’s legacy of excellence in bespoke indoor pool construction extends to over four decades. Their commitment to delivering award-winning pools has earned them industry accolades year after year.

With a wide variety of bespoke projects, Origin possesses the expertise to tailor your indoor pool to your unique needs, providing you with the confidence and freedom to relish the joy of swimming in the comfort of your home.

If you seek to begin your year on a positive note, place your trust in Origin to create an indoor pool aligned with your vision of well-being. Whether that results in a home gym, sauna, juice bar, fitness space or family lounging area, Origin’s team of experts manages every aspect of the process from concept to completion giving you a head start on the relaxation and mindfulness that will fill your home for many years to come.

Limited building slots are available, so contact Origin today and let them make 2024 the year of you.

originpools.co.uk info@originpools.co.uk 01895 453996 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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W I N T E R S A L E R OYA L U P G R A D E KING SIZE FOR THE PRICE OF A DOUBLE OR A SUPER KING FOR THE PRICE OF A KING*

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O P E N

SEASON SWR Home & Outdoor explain why now is the perfect time to introduce new doors to your property

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ith 2024 finally here, there is no better time to improve your home and SWR Home & Outdoor have over 30 years of experience in turning exciting visions into glorious reality.

Winter is the ideal season to fit new doors ready for that welcome burst of spring sunshine. Investing in bi-folding or sliding doors that seamlessly connect your indoor space to the garden, will ensure you’re more than prepared for those lazy days of summer to come. Why stop there? Adding a luxurious awning to the back of your house will immediately create an all-year-round extra room with a spectacular view. Who needs the expense of an extension when you can redefine your space with elegance!

If you are looking to simply transform the front of your house with a striking new door, SWR have many impressive and trustworthy brands to choose from including Hormann, Origin, Solidor, Spitfire and Rockdoor.

Here are some details about their inspiring ranges and what they have to offer.

• Hormann are highly respected in the industry and with their 80 years of specialist experience, they would be the perfect choice for your new entrance door.

Every door comes with a standard 5-point security lock, guaranteeing maximum protection against forced entry.

• Origin have been established for over 20 years and have an unrivalled reputation for supplying the highest quality aluminium entrance doors. Doors are made from premium-grade aluminium, to provide ultimate weather resistance.

• Solidor have been a frontrunner in the entrance door industry since 2004. All standard doors are 48mm thick which is almost 10% thicker than their competitors, offering extraordinary insulation.

• Spitfire are another brand that supply innovative aluminium doors in

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“SWR can turn exciting visions into glorious reality” designs that are not only functional but totally secure. Outstanding extras such as fingerprint access control and automatic locking are also available.

• Rockdoor, established in 1996, is another leader in the industry. They have attained many accreditations due to their exceptional level of security and the high standards achieved within their composite range. Their doors are A-grade energy efficiency rated because of their incredible insulation properties.

Why not start 2024 in style with 10% OFF a new front door when you visit SWR Home & Outdoor’s showroom and place an order. Don’t dilly-dally, as their offer ends on 31st January, 2024.

For full T&Cs relating to this offer visit homeandoutdoor.co.uk

12/12/2023 14:42

SBI Ltd has been providing all of your shelter and shading requirements, since 1998

0800 0742 721 | sbiproducts.co.uk

Verandas • Glass Rooms • Awnings • Pergolas Carports • Solar Garage Doors & Shutters • Parasols • Conservatory Sail Blinds Glass Wind Screens for patios, awnings, verandas and parasols !

We provide comprehensive awning services, f rom cleaning and repairs to seasonal maintenance.

Get in touch today for the highest quality awning servicing!

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INTERIORS • TREND MINIFORMS Illo Coffee Table, £520 gomodern.co.uk

BOBBI BECK GINGER RAY Merry and Bright Dinner Candles, £7.95 gingerray.co.uk

Brown Geometric Zen Garden Pattern Wallpaper Mural, £32 bobbibeck.com

ROSE & GREY

EDITOR’S PICK

Braided Tulip Basket, £35 roseandgrey.co.uk

SAZY Rosta Stackable Aluminium Chair, £99 sazy.com

MERRY& BRIGHT

EBB & FLOW Horizon Surface Wall Lamp, £279 limelace.co.uk

Bold colours for a bit of new year cheer

By P E N D L E H A R T E

PALAVA Napkin Set Red Cave, £14.50 palava.co

BODE LIVING Duo Red Photo Frame, £22.50 bode-living.com

VARIER LIGNE ROSET HAY Neon Tube LED Light, £65 skandium.com

Coupole Table Lamp, £184 ariashop.co.uk

Ekstrem Chair in Knitted Velvet, £2,699 backinaction.co.uk

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E D U C AT I O N

TOP MARKS ST GEORGES SCHOOL

St George’s School, Harpenden are proud to have achieved an ‘Outstanding’ rating during their boarding Ofsted inspection in September 2023. This is testament to the hard work and passion of their boarding staff, leadership, the parents and most importantly the boarders.

The inspectors particularly praised the commitment to upholding their ethos of kindness throughout. stgeorges.herts.sch.uk

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LARA PECHARD

Speaking out The head of St Margaret’s School in Bushey on developing community and inclusion through pupil voice

By LARA PECHARD

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ver the last few years, schools have been placing a greater emphasis on actively listening to their students. While school councils and student-led representative groups have been around for decades, there has been a significant improvement in the mechanisms for gathering student feedback and involving them in decision-making processes.

School leaders now recognise the power of students in finding the best solutions and creating a more effective and inclusive school environment, particularly in areas such as pastoral care and diversity.

At my school, we have implemented various methods to capture students' opinions so that every person has a voice that is listened to. We have conducted confidential questionnaires on topics like race, wellbeing, and sanctions, allowing our students to express their thoughts on the areas where they feel improvements can be made. Additionally, I have established a twice-weekly open-door slot where students can simply drop in and discuss a wide range of topics, including issues such as environmental sustainability, uniform policies, curriculum concerns, fairness of sanctions and rewards, and requests for

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more effective wellbeing and prayer spaces.

Many of these conversations have led to the formation of student-led groups, while also offering leadership positions to those students who have shown initiative.

Earlier this year, a number of students requested a "this is me" day whereby they could come into school dressed in the clothes that they believe represented their identity best – in a bid to celebrate their diversity and heritage. As we enter the new academic year, I am excited about

the enhancements we are making to our volunteering and service programme, which will allow us to tap into the depth and breadth of our diverse community.

In addition to listening to our students, my counterpart in the Junior School and I also offer drop-in sessions once every term for parents. These informal sessions provide an opportunity for parents to raise any concerns or suggestions they may have.

These meetings have proven to be immensely beneficial, as we gain valuable insights into

ROSIE MCCOLL

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“Our young people have a lot to say and are passionate about their community and diversity” what parents appreciate and what they believe could be improved. The absence of a set agenda and the regularity of these meetings contribute to their success, even when discussing more challenging topics.

This academic year, we are introducing a pupil version of these meetings, where our students can drop in for a hot chocolate with a friend in a neutral space. These relaxed yet focused discussions on improving their community, will help students feel included, understand the power of everyday leadership, and grow in self-confidence.

During a visit to Phillips Exeter School in the USA earlier in my career, I witnessed the power of student leadership and voice through pupil-led spiritual assemblies.

Students volunteered to write and deliver these assemblies, creating a strong sense of

community which benefited both the speakers and the audiences. Inspired by this, we are introducing a similar initiative in one of our senior school assemblies this term. I am confident that hearing from our students about aspects of their lives and experiences that matter to them, will open up important discussions and provide support for others. It will also be a powerful way to extend support and warmth within our school community.

Schools will often involve students in pupil panels and gathering feedback on lessons. Their insights are often the most accurate reflection of a teacher’s abilities.

When I need to address an issue or gain a better understanding of what is happening in the school, my lunches with senior

prefects often provide valuable guidance.

Our young people communicate differently from previous generations, but they have a lot to say and are passionate about their community, diversity, and fairness. It is increasingly important for me to create an inclusive environment where students feel comfortable sharing their views. Ultimately, their ideas are the ones that will lead to the most effective strategies for student engagement and success longer term, so it is vital that they have access to platforms that allow their voice to be heard. stmargarets-school.org.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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A LEVELS IN ONE YEAR A truly unique, accelerated programme: • Live lessons every day, in every subject • Daily tutorials and subject clinics with teachers • Structured self-study materials to keep students on-track • Two residential modules to develop exam and practical skills • Individually-tailored university application support

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EDUCATION • FOCUS

“It was a day to really stretch and challenge pupils”

Full steam

AHEAD Hertfordshire pupils come together to learn about science, technology, engineering, arts and maths

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ndependent day and boarding school in Bushey, St Margaret’s, has hosted a local STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) learning festival designed to inspire and challenge primary aged pupils. As well as St Margaret’s Year 5 and 6 pupils, the school also extended the invitation to a number of children from Little Reddings Primary and Ashfield Junior School in Bushey.

The children participated in the half-day workshop of activities, which took place in November, offering exposure to an array of enriching activities. The sessions were delivered by TA Education (supported by

Adobe and Sky) and included a Lego coding challenge, where children were required to programme a robot to collect a Lego block and deliver it to a designated drop zone, using the latest version of the Mico:Bit. Lara Pechard, head at St Margaret’s School, is passionate about giving children opportunities to problem solve. “Events like these are super important because they encourage pupils to work together in a focused way and to come up with thoughtful solutions to real-word problems,” she says. “It has also been wonderful to welcome more children into our school from inside the local community.”

The children also took part in several

other activities including using sophisticated VR headsets to create their own 3D space before exploring their virtual worlds through the lens of the headset. Using video editing software, pupils were also able to edit and create a short movie clip.

Miss Hyams, a teacher involved in the STEAM Festival at St Margaret’s School, adds: “It has been really inspiring to see our pupils challenge themselves in new ways and to grasp these exciting opportunities and concepts with both hands. The children were fully engaged in all of the activities, which for many, were totally new experiences. They, like all of the teachers, also learned lots of new skills while having a great deal of fun in the process.”

Engineering also formed part of the range of activities, and pupils were challenged to improve the EPC rating of their Minecraft house by adding solar panels, changing lightbulbs and deciding what will make their houses the most energy and heat efficient.

Mr Wells, a Year 5 Teacher from Little Reddings Primary School in Bushey, says: “A day like this is an opportunity for us to really stretch and challenge our most able pupils, and it is something that we would find hard to replicate in school.”

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LAST WORD • VENUE

why everyone is talking about…

Tring Park School for the Performing Arts

CLAIRE SWEENEY

The acclaimed institution for developing tomorrow’s performance artists has announced a new patron

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ring Park School for the Performing Arts has announced Claire Sweeney as its new patron.

The much-loved actor, singer and television personality is joining the community of long-standing patrons, including choreographer Matthew Bourne.

Currently appearing in Coronation Street as Cassie Plummer, Claire has had a long and diverse career. She has not only starred in a plethora of primetime TV shows, such as her breakout role in 1991 in popular soap Brookside, but also on stage in musicals, taking on much-loved characters like Roxie Hart in Chicago, showcasing her incredible voice. Alongside her role in Coronation Street, Claire is further demonstrating her versatility by training for ITV’s Dancing on Ice and appearing in Channel 5 drama, The Good Ship Murder.

Claire first began her training in performing arts as a teenager, so knows exactly what the students at Tring Park School have in store for them and can offer practical guidance as they progress through their vocational study and into the industry. She also has a long-standing history with the Hertfordshire-based performing arts school and explains: “I have a close affinity with Tring Park School, my godson was once a student and I have many friends in the industry that have attended – it is a wonderful place.

“The work Tring Park does to provide a creative environment where young performers can flourish and excel is truly outstanding. The core values of excellence, creativity and resilience run through the corridors of the school, and

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I look forward to supporting them in further nurturing the actors, dancers, and musicians of tomorrow,” Claire continues.

Tring Park School is a co-educational boarding and day school, providing education and training to young people from the age of 7 to 19. Pupils receive rigorous training in the performing arts, which is combined with an extensive academic programme of study.

Commenting on the new appointment, Principal Simon Larter-Evans says: “We are thrilled to have Claire on board as patron of the school. Not only is she a highly successful actor and one of the most in-demand on stage and screen, but she is fully aligned with our ethos of supporting young performers both in their vocational and academic study. We can’t wait to get started on our many exciting plans for the future.”

See more at tringpark.com

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