A Danish design icon, the modern elegance of the Indivi sofa remains a constant. Part of our collection for 25 years, the ever-evolving design has been refreshed with a contemporary outlook to complement any space – adding a touch of Scandinavian warmth and simplicity.
CHICHESTER
Corn Exchange, Baffins Lane, Chichester, PO19 1BF
chichester@boconcept.co.uk 01243 786555
Indivi Sofa, Tivoli Coffee Tabel, Santiago
Sideboard, Moments Rug, Eden fooststool, Kip floorlamp, Etternity Gallery
BRISTOL
76-78 Whiteladies Road Clifton, Bristol, BS8 2QN
bristol@boconcept.co.uk 0117 363 7020
CARDIFF
Grand Arcade, St. David’s Dewi Sant, Cardiff, CF10 2EL
cardiff@boconcept.co.uk 02920 343704
CHELTENHAM
68 Winchcombe Street, Cheltenham, GL52 2ND
cheltenham@boconcept.co.uk 01242 370427
EXETER
Dart Business Park, Exeter, EX3 0QH
exeter@boconcept.co.uk 01392 305252
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EDITOR
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ART DIRECTOR
PAWEL KUBA
SENIOR DESIGNERS
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INTERIORS
Visiting
As
Exploring
EDUCATION
The
James Passam was Farlington School's first appointed Head back in 2021. He tells us about
Olympic
LETTER Editor’s
ABSOLUTELY’S November issue highlights
As a kid I was obsessed with the books of Roald Dahl. I may now be more aware of his questionable beliefs, but as a 12-year-old I loved the world of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, James and the Giant Peach, The Twits, The Witches and more. I loved the fact they were dark as well as incredibly funny, with Quentin Blake's illustrations adding to the love.
Like me, David Walliams too was a fan of Dahl's books, but that's probably where the similarities between us end. Walliams has gone on to make quite a name for himself in the children's book world –although to me he will always be a comedy legend – and the Brighton local this month sees his Awful Auntie novel take to the stage in an enthralling adaptation. He tells us about the thrill of seeing his words come to life, and why The Shining is an unlikely inspiration.
I used to get a new Roald Dahl book each Christmas, so rather apt then that this month we also have our festive gift guide, offering everything for all the family, from mum and dad to our beloved pets. Enjoy!
MARK KEBBLE EDITOR
The best events across Sussex this month (p14)
Real Home
Exploring a unique cottage in the heart of the South Downs (p68)
David Walliams
The Brighton local talks about seeing his work hit the stage (p16)
Really Wild will make you feel cosy (p52)
Jewellery Wear something magical (p57)
Wish LIST
MIX SHAPES
Contemporary brand ILA has reimagined the classic silhouette, creating versatile styles perfect for any occasion with a variety of shapes, lengths, and materials, offering effortless transitions from day to night. ilao cial.com
SMALL THINGS
Loquet offers a wide selection of the cutest charms. To complete the look, there are beaded chains, precious rows of cut lapis lazuli, garnet, rose quartz and chrysoprase with a double clasp design to attach your favourite locket. loquetlondon.com
BERRY HUES
Dyson has always experimented with colour and the newest colourway is strawberry bronze and blush pink, inspired by the natural hues found at Dyson’s farming sites. The Airwrap, Supersonic dryer and straighteners all come in the striking new shade. dyson.com
WILD AT HEART
This crew neck is made from superfi ne lambswool in vibrant red and a classic fairisle pattern. It's an understated jumper in a recognisable print with a Really Wild take. reallywildclothing.com
GET THE GLOSS
The Pretty Ballerinas AW24 collection has arrived, featuring modern designs and a new glossy material. These pieces combine bold fabrics, distinctive styles, and vibrant colours. prettyballerinas.co.uk
HOME OF STYLE
Labeca's sophisticated and versatile looks are suitable for every place and every season. labecalondon.com
WORD UP
Bella Freud's new collection is full of slogans, ranging from simply 'Martin' to 'Slave to Love', to our favourite, 'Star Man'. bellafreud.com
For a year-round selection of swimwear in all shapes and sizes, it's hard to beat Amelie's Follies. ameliesfollies.co.uk
BRIGHT IDEA
Birkenstock's 1774 collection
brings back the iconic Arizona and Milano in bright new shades and textures. birkenstock.com
IN A TEACUP
The brand Mud Australia is loved by Yotam Ottolenghi and Nigella Lawson for its bright and breezy Aussieinspired colour palette and sustainable practices. mudaustralia.com
CULTURE
RICKY GERVAIS
26 NOVEMBER, BRIGHTON CENTRE
Ricky Gervais has announced the highly-anticipated first set of official UK dates for his brand-new standup show ‘Mortality’. Fresh from his most recent stand-up special 'Armageddon' winning a Golden Globe and hitting number one on Netflix, ‘Mortality’ will once again be filmed for Netflix. “We’re all gonna die. May as well have a laugh about it. Mortality looks at the absurdities of life,” says the comic superstar. brightoncentre.co.uk
The Agenda
Unspeakable art
UNTIL 27 APRIL, 2025, TOWNER EASTBOURNE
Journalist and broadcaster David Dimbleby guest curates a major art exhibition at Towner Eastbourne alongside his daughter Liza, artist and writer. Together with Liza, he has been invited to curate an ambitious thought-provoking exhibition focused on drawing titled Drawing the Unspeakable, featuring a wide range of artists.
townereastbourne.org.uk
EVENT
John Barrowman
1 November
THE HAWTH CRAWLEY Renowned actor, singer, best-selling author, and entertainer John Barrowman MBE will take to the road with a brand new solo show, Laid Bare. Audiences are in for a treat as the star of stage and screen brings his unique brand of music and storytelling to theatres up and down the country. parkwoodtheatres.co.uk/the-hawth
Throughout November
THE OBSERVATORY SCIENCE CENTRE
Go and enjoy the fabulous atmosphere that surrounds The Observatory Science Centre, Herstmonceux, at night and look through some of the largest telescopes in the country at some extraordinary night sky objects. Stargazing Evenings are a fascinating way to experience the natural wonders of the night sky. the-observatory.org
MUSIC
ART
Luke Jerram
Until 10 November
CHICHESTER CATHEDRAL
Luke Jerram's acclaimed art installation, Mars, has landed at Chichester Cathedral, an immersive artwork measuring seven metres in diameter and featuring detailed NASA imagery of the Martian surface. Visitors can enjoy an atmospheric exploration of Mars by twilight at a series of ticketed evening viewings, where the installation will be on show alongside a sound composition created by BAFTA and Ivor Novello award-winning composer Dan Jones. chichestercathedral.org.uk
A Winter Fair will be held at the South of England Showground this November Christmas
LA TRAVIATA
La Traviata
GLYNDEBOURNE
A favourite with audiences and critics since its Glyndebourne premiere in 2014, this stylish and sophisticated staging from director Tom Cairns and designer Hildegarde Bechtler emphasises the timeless nature of the story. Adam Hickox will conduct the Glyndebourne Sinfonia and a cast that includes Elisa Verzier as Violetta and Matteo Desole and Sehoon Moon as Alfredo. glyndebourne.com
The Winter Fair is all set to return to the South of England Showground in Ardingly, West Sussex, on 23-24 November. This festive event is the perfect opportunity for visitors to begin their Christmas preparations while enjoying a fun-filled day with family and friends.
ollowing rave reviews for their recent headline performance at Glastonbury, Wilderness and Bestival and a jaw-dropping new live set up debuted on a limited run UK/EU tour earlier this year, dance pioneers Faithless have announced a 21-date live UK/EU tour. With Sister Bliss at the helm alongside a full-live seven-piece band, Faithless proved they are very much a force to be reckoned with as they traversed through music old and new. brightoncentre.co.uk
The Winter Fair features an extensive array of shopping stalls from local and independent traders. From unique gi s such as handcra ed leather accessories, cashmere fashion, and natural soaps to festive home décor, Christmas decorations, and exquisite jewellery, it’s the ideal destination for shoppers seeking something special. Food and drink enthusiasts can also indulge in gourmet pies, cheeses, wines, handcra ed Christmas treats and more, making it the perfect place to stock up on seasonal delicacies.
For those looking to immerse themselves in the Christmas spirit, the Winter Fair offers a host of hands-on workshops and activities (additional fees apply), including chocolate workshops, Santa’s Grotto, wreath-making workshops, and willow weaving.
In addition to these festive activities, visitors can enjoy live music performances and the children’s fairground and capture a family photo in the giant snow globe. The fair will also feature face painting, mini ride-on trains, and the chance to witness birds of prey up close.
seas.org.uk
AWFUL Just
Brighton’s David Walliams has well and truly cornered the children’s book market, with a new production hitting the road this November. Absolutely finds out more
By DIANE PARKES
The bestselling children’s author David Walliams and the awardwinning Birmingham Stage Company have teamed up for a brand-new production of the family adventure Awful Auntie. This is their latest collaboration in a series of shows which includes the Oliver Award-nominated Gangsta Granny and Billionaire Boy
When Stella sets o to visit London with her parents, she has no idea her life is in danger! When Stella wakes up three months later, only her Aunt Alberta can tell her what has happened. But not everything Alberta tells her turns out to be true… Absolutely sat down with the Brighton local to find out more about the origins of the book and what to expect with this show.
Q What or who inspired Awful Auntie?
A It may not be the answer you were expecting, but I am obsessed with the film The Shining. I wanted to create a horror story where a child was trapped in a house with a dangerous relative, cut o from the outside world. As for the character herself I had a lot of fun creating Aunt Alberta. Villains are always so much more fun than heroes. I wanted her to be funny as much as scary, which is something my literary hero Roald Dahl always did so brilliantly.
Q I have to ask the question – did/do you have any awful aunties and are they recreated in any way in the book?
A I am lucky enough to have three nice aunties, so no Alberta is not based on them. So in writing the book I let my imagination run riot, which is normally the best way to go.
My real-life granny inspired Gangsta Granny, but my aunties have yet to inspire me to write anything about them.
Q You’ve worked with BSC a number of times now. Why do you think the collaboration has been so successful?
A I think I share a sense of humour with Neal Foster who runs BSC and has written all of the adaptations, so it has been very harmonious. Also the company are really successful, and have been making magnificent family shows for years, so I completely trust them.
Q How did you feel watching Gangsta Granny and seeing audience reactions?
A You feel like a magician when as an author you see your book come to life. It’s a real thrill to hear audiences laughing, one that never leaves you even though I have been making comedy shows of my own for many years.
“MY REALLIFE GRANNY INSPIRED GANGSTA GRANNY”
Q What did you like best about the show?
A I think the heart of the story is intact, but there are lots of great new jokes too. The cast are fantastically talented and all work o each other brilliantly. I couldn’t be happier with it.
Q Are you surprised at how successful Gangsta Granny has proved to be?
A I feel it should now be on stage somewhere in the world until the end of time. Then I can retire! I am proud of the book, it seems to have really struck a chord with readers, so I am glad that more and more people can enjoy the story by seeing it on stage.
Q Bearing in mind the colourful array of characters in Awful Auntie, do you think there are any particular challenges in bringing it to the stage?
A I think the world of Awful Auntie is very heightened, for example Aunt Alberta has a henchman who is actually an owl. So I think capturing the tone of the book and still making it believable will be the biggest challenge. Also trying to balance the humour with the frightening moments is never easy, but I have every faith in the BSC.
Q How do you anticipate children will react di erently to the stage show?
A When you read a book it’s normally on your own, whereas when you watch a stage show you share the experience with an audience. You are likely to laugh more in an audience, so hopefully the stage show will be a hoot.
Q What do you hope children will take away from seeing the production?
A Stella is a pretty self-reliant heroine, and so I hope children will be inspired to find the strength within themselves to deal with bad situations. Also Stella is posh and even has the title ‘Lady’, but by the
end of the story she realises none of that is important and that all people should be treated the same. I believe that too.
Q And what message is there for adults?
A The message for adults is don’t lock your niece in a country house, or you may end up being killed by a giant snow-owl.
Q Tiddlywinks makes an appearance in Awful Auntie – what’s your secret for tiddlywinks success?
A The great thing about Tiddlywinks is the name. It’s the best named game out there. I haven’t played it for years, but I think speed is the key. Or feel free to cheat.
Q Why do you think children will still pick up a good book?
A I think books are so immersive that children do like being alone with them. I think we all have JK Rowling to thank for turning children onto books in their millions.
Q And what actually makes a ‘good’ book for a child?
A I think a good children’s book should be funny and exciting, and a message
that makes you think about it long after you have finished reading it
Q Which other modern children’s authors do you admire and why?
A Dame Jacqueline Wilson is a genius. I read Tracy Beaker and instantly thought I should give up. It’s so brilliant. Michael Morpurgo is an astonishingly good writer who has found an exciting way to teach children about history. He is an absolute gentleman too. Andy Stanton’s books are very funny, as are Je Kinney’s. I love to read Julia Donaldson books with my son. Judith Kerr is a brilliant author and illustrator, and let’s not forget Michael Bond who created Paddington.
Q Do you have a favourite of your own novels and why?
A Mr Stink is my favourite. I think it has a strong message about how we treat people less fortunate than ourselves, and Sir Quentin Blake’s illustrations are absolutely magical.
Q And what one thing would you still like to do but haven’t got round to yet?
A I would like to meet and hopefully marry Rihanna.
THE SHINING: AN UNLIKELY INSPIRATION FOR A CHILDREN'S BOOK
PHOTO BY MARK DOUET
WAGNER, STELLA AND ALBERTA IN AWFUL AUNTIE, PHOTO BY MARK DOUET
TIS the
SEASON
If you are looking for entertainment over the festive period, look no further than the Chichester Festival Theatre
CHRISTMAS CONCERT, PHOTO BY TIM HILLS
“CFT is going all out to create magical festive moments for everyone”
Asparkling winter season has been unveiled at Chichester Festival Theatre, o ering a fabulously varied array of some of the best touring productions currently on o er in the UK, and a feast of festive entertainment for Christmas.
West End musical hits coming to Chichester include Come From Away and a return visit for SIX alongside the eagerly-awaited new Dolly Parton musical Here You Come Again Drama based on popular and awardwinning books includes Birdsong, The Girl on the Train and Never Let Me Go, and another chance to see the hilariously inventive Pride & Prejudice* (*sort of). Fans of classic drama will also relish new productions of A Man for All Seasons starring Martin Shaw, and a Rattigan double-bill, Summer 1954 with Nathaniel Parker and Dame Siân Phillips.
An unmissable selection of new work ranges from the 1980s-inspired musical After the Act to the joyous Bullring Techno Makeout Jamz and the latest production from ThickSkin and Pentabus, Driftwood. There’s also an enticing array of music (such as Julian Ovenden, Fisherman’s Friends, Radio 3’s Friday Night Is Music Night), comedy (Omid Djalili), poetry (Lemn Sissay), family shows (Dinosaur World Live, The Littlest Yak) and community performances.
And in the centre of it all, of course, is Christmas. They’re going all out again this year to create magical festive moments for everyone, young and old, to make the season truly sparkle. Created especially for CFT by Michael Morpurgo, Hey! Christmas Tree will enchant small children and their families; while Chichester Festival Youth Theatre will be making everyone’s wishes come true with a magical telling of Cinderella. And Father Christmas himself had such a good time in our Santa’s Grotto last year that he’s bringing his trusty Elves back for another festive workshop. Here’s a more detailed look at what to expect in November and December.
SEBASTIAN
FAULKS’ BIRDSONG
Festival Theatre, 5-9 November
Sebastian Faulks’ epic tale of love and loss returns to the stage in a brand-new production marking the 30th anniversary of the international best-selling novel, adapted by Rachel Wagsta (The Girl on the Train, Flowers for Mrs Harris) and starring Max Bowden (EastEnders), James Esler (Litvinenko) and Charlie Russell (The Goes Wrong Show, BBC’s And Then There Were None).
In pre-First World War France, a young Englishman, Stephen Wraysford, embarks on a passionate and dangerous a air with the beautiful Isabelle Azaire that turns their world upside down. Faced with the unprecedented horror of the Battle of the Somme, Stephen clings to the memory of Isabelle as his world explodes around him.
BIRDSONG
HEY! CHRISTMAS TREE
HERE YOU COME AGAIN
Festival Theatre, 12-16 November
For the first time ever, all of Dolly Parton’s biggest hits can be experienced together in a rollicking and joyous new musical comedy. Packed with the iconic songs Jolene, 9 to 5, Islands in the Stream, I Will Always Love You, Here You Come Again and plenty more, this lively and touching new musical tells the story of a diehard fan, Kevin, whose fantasy version of international icon Dolly Parton gets him through trying times. Here You Come Again was originally written by two-time Emmy award-winning comedy and songwriter Bruce Vilanch with Gabriel Barre (who also directs) and Tricia Paoluccio (who also plays Dolly). After several successful runs across the United States, it has now been adapted for the UK by acclaimed British playwright Jonathan Harvey (Gimme, Gimme, Gimme and Coronation Street), co-starring West End performer Steven Webb (The Book of Mormon, Oliver! West End) as Kevin.
COME FROM AWAY
Festival Theatre, 19-23 November
Winner of four Olivier Awards including Best New Musical and the Tony Award for Best Direction of a Musical on Broadway, this smash hit show shares the incredible real-life story of the 7,000 air passengers from all over the world who were grounded in Canada during the wake of 9/11, and the small Newfoundland community that invited these ‘come from aways’ into their lives with open hearts.
“Come From Away is a celebration of hope, humanity and unity”
Spirited locals and global passengers come together to forge friendships that will stay with them forever. The first female American Airlines captain, the quick-thinking town mayor, the mother of a New York firefighter and the eager local news reporter are among the many real characters caught at the start of the moment that changed the course of history and whose stories became a celebration of hope, humanity and unity. Tony Award-winning director Christopher Ashley alongside Olivier Award-winning writers Irene Sanko and David Hein bring this uplifting true story to the stage in a life-a rming production that has audiences on their feet night after night.
BULLRING TECHNO MAKEOUT JAMZ
Minerva Theatre, 21-23 November
Nathaniel is a serious romantic who sees love as a fine art. He’s looking for the Mona Lisa to his da Vinci, and tonight is the night: his date with Destiny…’s Child. Winner of the Bruntwood Prize for
Playwriting 2022, and written and performed by Nathan Queeley-Dennis, Bullring Techno Makeout Jamz is a love letter to Birmingham, exploring Black masculinity through Beyonce lyrics, techno raves and the deeply intimate relationship between a man and his barber, and is directed by Dermot Daly.
NEVER LET ME GO
Festival Theatre, 26-30 November
Kazuo Ishiguro’s international bestselling novel arrives on stage in the world premiere of a gripping new stage adaptation by Suzanne Heathcote, directed by Christopher Haydon.
What if you discovered your whole reason for being was not about your life, but about making someone else’s possible? Your dreams, your desires, your love for another, all of them irrelevant in a world that values only what you give, without question or condition, to someone you’ve never met and will never know.
Memory and reality collide in this stunning new staging that challenges us to think about what it means to be
COME FROM AWAY, PHOTO BY CRAIG SUGDEN CINDERELLA
C L A S S I C
C O N T E M P O R A R Y
‘Simplicity is the ultimate form of sophistication’ Leonardo da Vinci.
human; what it means to have hope and heart – and to love and to lose.
AFTER THE ACT
Minerva Theatre, 27-30 November
After the Act is a new 1980s-inspired musical about pride, protest… and abseiling lesbians.
Thatcher’s Section 28, which banned the “promotion” of homosexuality in schools, was the landmark legislation that silenced a generation, o ered a global blueprint for LGBTQ+ oppression and galvanised a movement. After the Act is funny, camp and unapologetically queer, but also a clear-eyed exposure of the political playbook used to enact repressive laws.
A joyously exuberant original live score by composer and musical director, Frew, accompanies the inspiring, sometimes heart-breaking, stories of teachers, students and activists impacted by the legislation. This is the story of how a moral panic gripped a nation – and a community decided to fight back, written by Ellice Stevens and Billy Barrett.
CHRISTMAS CONCERTS
Festival Theatre, 3-7 December
The Band of His Majesty’s Royal Marines Collingwood and the uplifting voices of the Chichester Cathedral Choir return for the traditional, much-loved Christmas Concerts – guaranteed to get audiences feeling joyful and triumphant.
Brimming with cherished carols and classic Christmas melodies, alongside some enchanting new arrangements, this festive celebration promises to wrap everyone in the warm glow of holiday spirit and is a proper singalong event.
HEY! CHRISTMAS TREE
Minerva Theatre, 7-29 December
Enchanting, funny and heart-warming, this festive story about the importance of
finding friendship and somewhere to call home was created especially for Chichester Festival Theatre by Michael Morpurgo. Tree is rescued from the forest on Christmas Eve by Mavis, the motorbiking park ranger, who lives with her cheeky cat Winston and 9-year-old Yulia, who doesn’t want to talk and is a long way from home. Tree has never had Christmas before and isn’t sure about all the decorations he has to wear. But he meets Father Christmas and the Snow Woman, and with Yulia to care for him, he starts to dance. The seasons come and go, Tree grows taller, and soon Christmas comes around once again. And alongside the gifts in their
stockings is the best present of all.
Inspired by Michael Morpurgo’s book of poems My Heart Was a Tree, and written for the stage by Vicki Berwick, with music and lyrics by Eamonn O’Dwyer, it’s a perfect first festive theatre trip for 3 to 7-year-olds.
CHICHESTER FESTIVAL YOUTH THEATRE PRESENT CINDERELLA
Festival Theatre, 17-31 December
You are invited to the prince’s ball this Christmas… Transport yourself into a spellbinding new retelling of this classic folk tale, full of wonder and delight. Meet a wicked stepfamily, a handsome prince in search of a wife and a missing slipper. But wait: there are also three magical dresses, a wish-giving tree, and help for Cinderella from a very unexpected source.
Packed with thrilling theatricality and delightful comedy, Cinderella is written by Philip Wilson (Grimm Tales), with original live music and songs by Jason Carr, and directed by Jon Pashley (CFYT’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream).
Chichester Festival Youth Theatre follows five-star versions of Sleeping Beauty, Pinocchio and The Jungle Book with another festive feast of magical storytelling. Cinderella will have set design by Simon Higlett, costume design by Abigail Caywood, musical direction by Audra Cramer, lighting design by Emma Chapman, sound design by Gregory Clarke and movement direction by Julia Cave.
cft.org.uk
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Le 9 de Givenchy, £67 givenchybeauty.com OTIUMBERG
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LULU GUINNESS
Gingerbread House Clutch Bag, £345 luluguinness.com
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HUSH PUPPIES
Jade Slippers, £75 hushpuppies.co.uk
LONDON TRANSPORT MUSEUM
The Tube 160 Wallace Sewell Scarf from London Transport Museum was made in collaboration with London textile studio, Wallace Sewell, to celebrate the Underground and its influence on the city. The contemporary design weaves together the colours of the iconic Tube map into a striking geometric pattern making it instantly recognisable, yet subtle enough to be worn by anyone. Made in the UK from pure wool, it’s the ideal scarf to keep warm this winter while adding a pop of colour to any outfit to brighten up the cold and darker days, £70. ltmuseumshop.co.uk
Mittens, £36 blackandbeech.com EDITOR’S
TILLY SVEAAS
Jewelled T-Bar Gold
Earrings, £100 tillysveaas.co.uk
DOM PÉRIGNON
Vintage 2015 Special Edition Tribute to Jean-Michel Basquiat, £220 selfridges.com
WILLOW CROSSLEY
Rainbow Filligrana Vase, £155 willowcrossley.com
GREY WOLFE
As a transformative meditation tool, journalling can guide you onto a journey of genuine self-reflection and healing. Grey Wolfe’s Moments that Heal, luxury Guided Journal is the perfect gi , enhancing traditional journalling through a lens of creativity. The gi set includes a minimalist instax camera and 10 films, alongside a carefully curated journal, designed to spark creativity through prompts and ideas that’ll inspire authentic moments of self-discovery, £288. greywolfe.co.uk
CATHERINE
LONDON VELVET
Corduroy Weekend Bag, £650 londonvelvet.co.uk
GOODWOOD
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FRANCIS BACON COLLECTION
Cord Buttoned Overshirt in Rust, £95 npgshop.org.uk
HAY X ASICS
Hay x Skyhand OG, £115 asics.com EDITOR’S PICK
ARTFULLY WALLS
Framed Montana de Oro photographic print by Julie Pointer
This gi -ready selection box features a delicious combination of superfood dental sticks and healthy bite-sized pieces of festive joy in the award-winning British brand's best-selling flavour combination: Cranberry & Sweet Potato with added natural flaxseed for happy tummies. Grain-free, with nothing artificial added, low calorie, hypoallergenic, and 100% plant-based ingredients – they're a 'pawsome' Christmas gi your pooch will love, £6.99. soopapets.com
By EVE HERBERT
SOUND IDEA LOEWE
PIZZA PARTY DELVITA
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BAKE OFF OUR PLACE
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The dinky Wonder Oven looks like a child's toy, but is in fact a sophisticated and stylish appliance that can that can air fry, bake, roast, grill, reheat, and toast, £195. fromourplace.co.uk
HOT SHOT LA PAVONI
La Pavoni is the last word in covetable manual espresso machines for connoisseurs and the Mini Cellini in stainless steel is the perfect gi for the coffee geek in your life, £999. selfridges.com
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ROCKAHULA KIDS
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ADOPT AN ORCA
Orca gi adoption, from £6 a month whales.org/adopt
The interactive and action-packed Connetix 106 Piece Pastel Ball Run Pack features a range of exclusively designed clear fluted tubes including an “X” shape to re-direct the action, double entry bowls to race and play, plus special effect staircases – helping children discover concepts such as gravity, motion, force, engineering, magnetism, balance and more, £89. connetixtiles.com
YOUNG SOLES
Rosie T Bar Shoes, £69 youngsoles.com
MOPPET SHOP
KIDS Gifts for
Moppet's multi-award-winning wool tapestries are meticulously hand-embroidered in tiny batches where no two pieces are the same. Not forgetting Moppet’s all-natural, sustainable materials and ethical practices, making this heirloom gi a planet-friendly choice too. Hand-embroidered ABC wall-hanging tapestry, ‘Sumbal’ £185. moppetshop.co.uk
By CARLY GLENDINNING
STYCH
Initial Flower Bag Gi Box, £43 stychaccessories.com
ORCHARD TOYS
cottontwist.co.uk
Children will love matching the dogs’ heads and tails and pretending to wag their tail in the hilarious matching game Doggy Doggy Woof Woof! Meanwhile, Don’t Wake Mr. McGregor is perfect for fans of Peter Rabbit™ where children will creep around the board collecting vegetables and trying not to wake Mr. McGregor! orchardtoys.com
LACOSTE
By PENDLE HARTE
Lacoste X Clot Socks, £40 lacoste.com FACON JACMIN
Alia Bag, £260 koibird.com
COPAS
Decadent Turkey
Selection Box, £525 copasfarmshop.co.uk
SELFRIDGES
The Boxing Day hamper, £250 selfridges.com
DELLI
Grand Food Only hamper, £150 delli.market
RICK STEIN
Rick Stein's Christmas hamper, £100 rickstein.com
ASHMOLEAN MUSEUM
Figgy Pudding hamper, £39.50 ashmolean.org
FARHI
Deluxe bestsellers hamper, £250 farhi.co.uk
ASHMOLEAN MUSEUM
Sweet Tooth hamper, £39.50 ashmolean.org
By PENDLE HARTE
SELFRIDGES
The Christmas Treats gi box, £60 selfridges.com
BISCUITEERS
Nativity Biscuit Tin, £39.95 biscuiteers.com
ARTFULY WALLS
Pressed Flower Rainbow Trout by Ayla Graham, framed print from £172 artfullywalls.com
ANTHROPOLOGIE
OTTOLENGHI
Comfort Cookbook, £30 penguin.co.uk
MEGAN'S
Treat your loved ones to the gi of Megan's Mediterranean magic this festive season with their gi cards & experiences. Megan’s is the ultimate setting for a magical Christmas celebration, whisking you away to sunny places all year around with their Eastern Mediterranean inspired menu & twinkly interiors. This Christmas, feast on hot honey pigs in blankets, their famous Christmas kebab & sticky date pudding, all in a magical, fairy lit setting. Gi cards available from £10. megans.co.uk
By PENDLE HARTE
BORDALLO PINHEIRO
Lobster appetiser plate, £375 koibird.com
TIM SPECTOR
The Food for Life Cookbook, £28 penguin.co.uk
ACQUA DI PARMA
FARHI
Pannettone Candle, £75 selfridges.com
Handmade Bonboniere with Chocolate-Covered Coffee Beans, £20 farhi.co.uk
Pauline Cocktail Shaker, £52 anthropologie.com ENGLISH TEA COMPANY
Holiday Collection Tea Gi Tin, £11.99 wholefoodsmarket.co.uk
BY GREEN PAN 11 Piece Aluminium Pan and Lid set, £699 .95 johnlewis.com
TUCCI
ORIN SWIFT
Mannequin Chardonnay 2022, £50 majestic.co.uk
CHAMPAGNE BOLLINGER Goldfi nger 007 limited edition anniversary set 2015 vintage magnum in a Globetrotter case , £3,500 007store.com
SIRDAVIS American whisky, £88 harveynichols.com
DOWN HALL Garden Gin, £45 essexspiritsco.com
THE OXTON LIQUEUR COMPANY
Personalised bottles of liqueurs, £55 oxtonliqueurs.co.uk
GLENMORANGIE
A Tale of Ice Cream single-malt Scotch whisky, £76.99 selfridges.com
VEUVE CLICQUOT La Grande Dame Rose 2015, £205 laithwaites.co.uk
GLASS
BRUNO PAILLARD Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru MV, £75 hedonism.co.uk
818
Eight Reserve Tequila, £250 selfridges.com
By PENDLE HARTE
BOTIVO
Botivo botanical aperitivo and gi ing tube, £32.50 botivodrinks.com
di NATALECARN EVALE
A CHRISTMAS CARNIVAL
Celebrate this Christmas with us at San Carlo, where you can experience a menu as spectacular as the memories, you’re sure to make.
Dive into the celebrations & let the festivities commence!
FOOD & DRINK
WINTER WARMERS
CARLO
San Carlo’s new seasonal menu features comforting, rich flavours that are sure to please your taste buds. Begin your meal with the homemade Chicken Liver Pâté accompanied by sourdough and Chianti dressing. For your main course, savour the Pappardelle all’Anatra served with duck ragu. Conclude your dining experience with Frangipane alla Pesca, a delightful peach and almond cake, or enjoy the Torta Caprese, a luscious almond and chocolate cake, served with ice cream. sancarlo.co.uk
SAN
CELEBRATE
in STYLE
Join San Carlo this holiday season, where you can experience authentic Italian hospitality and indulge in exquisite Italian food
This holiday season promises to be the most extraordinary Christmas yet at San Carlo, showcasing exciting installations that will captivate you and leave you eager to return time and again. Their Christmas Fayre menu is available for groups of six or more, ensuring that your Christmas party is truly unforgettable. With a variety of Private Dining Spaces available at their locations, they provide the ideal setting for your festive celebration this year. They’re even open on Christmas Day at a select few of their locations. Their new seasonal menu, bursting with warm and hearty flavours, is designed to
delight your palate. Start your meal with the Tartare di Manzo, a delicious beef tartare accompanied by a zesty mustard dressing. For your main course, consider the Ravioli Porcini, handmade mushroom ravioli enveloped in a rich and creamy porcini sauce. Cap o your dining experience in style by indulging in the Torta Caprese, an exquisite almond and chocolate cake.
The cocktail menu showcases a delightful selection of beloved classics, featuring San Carlo favourites such as the smooth and creamy Croccante, made with Campari, Ratafia, Coconut Cream, and Lime. You might also enjoy the Champs-Élysées, a lively and energetic drink crafted from Hennessy Fine, Champagne, and Caramel.
San Carlo are eagerly looking forward to seeing you this December as they celebrate
Christmas the Italian way! Whether you’re coming for a cosy date night, a family get-together, or organising your Christmas party, they are prepared to ensure your celebration is truly unforgettable. Their talented chefs have crafted a special menu featuring traditional Italian holiday dishes with a modern twist, guaranteed to delight your taste buds. Picture yourself savouring rich pasta dishes, succulent meats, and decadent desserts, all paired with exquisite wines from the finest vineyards of Italy. Don’t forget to make your reservation soon, as spots are filling up quickly. They can’t wait to celebrate this special time of year with you and create memories that will last a lifetime. Buon Natale!
sancarlo.co.uk
DRINKS
What to drink this month CABINET
By NATALIA SUTA (@_WINEROCKS_) WINEROCKS.CO.UK
FIZZ with Flair
Pet Nat, or pétillant naturel if you’re feeling fancy, is the original gangster of sparkling wines - bottled before fermentation finishes, creating a natural fizz with a raw, unfiltered charm. Now, let’s talk about Titch Hill’s version: it’s bursting with peach, honey, and a playful elderflower twist. Unfiltered and unpolished, it’s pure fizzy fun in a bottle. titchhill.com
PINOT WITH A TWIST
Pinot Noir Précoce is the cool, lesser-known sibling of Pinot Noir, and London Cru has bottled its unique charm. This early-ripening mutation brings a bit of extra brightness and elegance to the classic Pinot Noir profile. Expect notes of raspberry and cherry and a silky finish. It’s a must-try for lovers of all things unexpected and refined. londoncru.co.uk
SIP, READ, REPEAT
BookBar is not your average bookstore - it's where book lovers and wine enthusiasts come together for the ultimate cosy hangout. With shelves brimming with carefully curated reads and a wine list designed to match, it’s the place to relax, sip, and get lost in a great story. Perfect for a catch-up with friends, a book club meet-up, or just a solo escape. bookbaruk.com
Country Estate
Crafting wine, spirits, and history
Tucked away in the tranquil Sussex countryside, Mousehall is a familyrun estate that blends historic charm with modern winemaking. First recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, the property was given new life in 2017 by Gary and Kathy Jordan, the owners of Jordan Wine Estate in South Africa. They transformed the once-forgotten site into a vibrant distillery and winery, skillfully balancing tradition with innovation.
Mousehall’s Tidebrook wine range is a pure adventure in a bottle. Their 2022 maiden vintage includes the playful Six Petals Rosé, full of fresh hedgerow fruit and creamy brioche; the Staddle Stone Chardonnay, with zesty citrus and a touch of butter popcorn from 12 months in French oak; and The Tipping Point Pinot Noir, an elegant sip with crunchy strawberry and a hint of toast. Each bottle brims with the estate’s unique character and the Jordans' expert touch.
But Mousehall isn’t just about wine. Their distillery, one of the first in the UK to merge distilling with winemaking, o ers spirits that blend the best of English and South African influences, including an acclaimed gin crafted from 13 botanicals.
Looking to extend your stay?
Mousehall’s guest house, a renovated 18th-century oast house, is the perfect retreat for those seeking relaxation amidst ancient woodlands, hedgerows, and vineyards in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).
mousehall.com
A Decade of DISTILLING
The Silent Pool Gin distillery is celebrating its 10th anniversary in spectacular style
A CELEBRATION OF CRAFTSMANSHIP AND FLAVOUR
The Silent Pool Distillery has unveiled a limited-edition 10th Anniversary Celebration Edition Gin, a tribute to the passion, dedication, and artistry that has defined Silent Pool Gin over the past ten years.
This exceptional spirit captures the essence of the distillers’ journey, which started back in 2014 when a group of local friends set out to create a gin distillery on the banks of the beautiful Silent Pool in Albury, deep in the Surrey Hills National Landscape. They converted farm buildings into a working distillery with a restored vintage wood-fired steam boiler powering a hand-built copper still.
They then sourced local ingredients and exotic botanicals and set about experimenting with all kinds of recipes, refusing to compromise on quality. Finally they created a gin of rare taste and beauty and named it Silent Pool Gin, after its home.
Immediately popular with local customers, Silent Pool Gin soon acquired a raft of awards and has amassed an enviable reputation across the world.
A DECADE OF DISTILLING EXCELLENCE
The new limited-edition release represents a culmination of a decade of experience,
successfully combining traditional distilling methods with a modern innovative approach to craft award winning luxury spirits.
This Celebration Edition follows the trademarked four-step production process which delivers layers of exceptional aroma and flavour blended to perfection.
It has been specifically crafted to highlight delicious notes of pear - a nod to the earliest days at the distillery when it produced a pear eau de vie. This distinctive botanical brings a unique depth to the gin and celebrates the happy memory of where the journey started.
VISIT THE SILENT POOL GIN DISTILLERY
Pair this delicious gin with elderflower tonic and a twist of orange zest for a delightful G&T that showcases its vibrant character. It is also ideal for crafting classic cocktails including a Martini or a French 75.
LIMITED AVAILABILITY
Silent Pool Tenth Anniversary Celebration Edition Gin is a limited edition in a beautiful one litre bottle. It’s available at select Surrey retailers, the distillery shop and Silent Pool Gin Guildford store, and through the online shop. Raise a glass to ten years of unforgettable flavours.
Book a guided tour of the distillery and experience first-hand the passion and craftsmanship that go into every drop of gin. The award winning tour includes tastings and takes you through the history of gin making and the unique production process.
You can also book a range of seasonal experiences including festive distillery tours and a Perfect Pairing Experience, and shop the amazing range of luxury Christmas gifts at the distillery shop, which is open every day.
The Silent Pool Distillery, Shere Road, Albury, Surrey GU5 9BW silentpooldistillers.com
FASHION
MISS DIOR
DIOR
For Dior's autumnwinter 2024-2025 ready-to-wear collection, Maria Grazia Chiuri's shapes and vivid colours suggest a (re)found freedom sparked by Miss Dior –the ready-to-wear line dreamed up in 1967 by Marc Bohan and Philippe Guibourgé. dior.com
Magic Charms
It's all treats with these spellbinding pieces
By CARLY GLENDINNING
MARA HOTUNG
Bespoke starfish bracelet, moonstones and diamonds mounted in 18k white gold, £POA gemvoyager.com
18K yellow gold and diamond The Erté Earrings, £4,818 lofjewellery.com
MARIA KOTSONI
Triple Star Diamond Earrings, £11,790 mariakotsoni.com
MARLO LAZ
Stella Sunburst earrings in 14K yellow gold, aquamarine and diamond, £12,683 marlolaz.com
LA MUSE BY NATALIYA Diamond, emerald, and black onyx ring, £3,829 lamusebynataliya.com
LIONHEART
LE VIAN®
Pendant featuring Nude Diamonds™ and Chocolate Diamonds® set in 14K Honey Gold™, £2,291 levian.com
14K yellow gold, gray mother of pearl and diamond Starry Night Medallion, £1,824 lionheartjewelry.com
EL KHALIL
18K black gold and diamond Sunburst Drop earrings, £POA karmaelkhalil.com
İTÄ
KARMA
LÖF
HEALTH & BEAUTY
SOUTH LODGE
South Lodge in West Sussex has now launched The Reeds, eight lakeside eco-lodges, consisting of six lakeside lodges and two spa lodges on the estate’s 93-acre grounds. Guests staying at The Reeds will enjoy full access to South Lodge hotel facilities, along with the opportunity to book guided sessions introducing them to the wonders of wild swimming in the lake.
WINTER SKIN
GLOW UP
Dr Nyla Raja of Dr Nyla Medispa London explains how to protect your skin this winter
DR NYLA RAJA SPORTING THE ILLUMINATING EYE CREAM
Keeping your complexion on point throughout the winter months can be challenging.
Founder and Medical
Director of award-winning Doctor Nyla Medispa, Dr Nyla Raja, explains: “Winter is a magical time of year, with seasonal celebrations filling our social calendars. However, a combination of seasonal stress, over-indulgence, and cold weather conditions can a ect our skin health leaving us with skin that’s dull, dehydrated, and irritated. It’s therefore important to protect skin throughout the winter months so that the skin barrier is maintained, enabling the skin to retain its natural glow.
“One of the best things you can do for your skin throughout this period is to increase the skin’s hydration. This not only means drinking more water, but also adjusting the products you use to suit the needs of the season. Switching up your moisturiser to one that’s more oil based is beneficial as it increases hydration levels and counteracts dehydrating e ects such as lack of humidity, indoor heating, and bathing in hot water. SPF is also essential.
Not just for summer, wearing SPF daily is just as crucial throughout the winter months when UV damage can still occur.
“Using active ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, ceramides and peptides that maximise hydration, protect the skin barrier and reduce inflammation is key as they help to nourish the skin throughout winter when it’s often at its most sensitive. This is especially relevant for individuals with inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis who naturally have drier skin and may need to use their emollients more regularly at this time of year.”
A highly respected and much sought after cosmetic dermatology GP, considered to be one of the top cosmetic doctors in the country, Dr Nyla has practiced medicine for 20+ years and has personally delivered over 200,000 treatments with exceptional results.
A firm favourite with TV personalities, well-known celebrity figures and the media, her London clinic is home to some of the most sophisticated medical aesthetic technologies that the industry has to o er.
Dr Nyla continues: “In addition to good skincare practices, advanced skincare treatments can also help to manage the e ects of winter and get the skin glowing in advance of the festive season. It’s ideal to start as far ahead as possible as many require a course of treatments for the most e ective outcomes. Some of my favourite treatments to super-charge your winter glow up include:
ENVY FACIAL
Targeting a whole range of skin concerns, including hyperpigmentation, fine lines, wrinkles, and acne, theENVY facialis a stateof-the-art skin resurfacing treatment available at our London clinic. It can be tailored to the individual and is designed to use specific techniques to enable exfoliation, extraction and the infusion of enriching serums.
LUMENIS M22
One of the most revolutionary laser treatments available in the world, the Lumenis M22 provides next-generation, gold standard skin rejuvenation therapy to address a variety of skin conditions (such as acne and rosacea) whilst simultaneously addressing the visible signs of ageing and boosting a radiant complexion.
MORPHEUS8
Rejuvenate skin with this globally renowned treatment that e ectively addresses issues relating to the tone and texture of the skin. Results can be seen instantly.
DR NYLA SKINCARE
Essential for ensuring optimal skin recovery and results, Dr Nyla Skincare is a luxurious collection of seven refillable, cuttingedge skincare using scientifically proven, consciously sourced ingredients that have been meticulously chosen to deliver powerful, targeted results. Each glow-giving, restorative skin treat has been formulated with some of beauty’s most powerful active ingredients. Available exclusively from doctornyla.com, this is luxury skincare that works.
DR NYLA MEDISPA LONDON
is located at 32 Dover Street, Mayfair, London, W1S 4NE. Call 0162 552 3307 / 0800 009 6661 to book a complementary consultation. doctornyla.com
Rosalique 3 in 1 Balm Cleanser, £29.99 rosalique.co.uk
ANTIPODES
Glory Vitamin C Triple-Action Glow Toner 100ml, £22 antipodesnature.com
Flush Cheek By Lashify Labs, £28 lashify.com
FACETHEORY
Glow-C Daily Moisturiser, £18 facetheory.com
ULTRA VIOLETTE
Queen Screen SPF 50
Super Glow DropsIlluminating, £33 ultraviolette.co.uk
By CARLY GLENDINNING
BUBBLE So Launch Hydrating Cream Cleanser, £16 boots.com
CIATÉ LONDON
Brazilian Glow Dewy Gloss, £18 ciatelondon.com
LASHIFY
TOP PICKS
THREE RUNNING MUST-HAVES
FITNESS NOTES
By CARLY GLENDINNING
TRACK STYLE
Made from recycled materials and with UPF protection, this top from Fabletics' new collection has a built in bra for extra support when you hit the treadmill. I love the pretty twist detail at the back too, £64. fabletics.co.uk
WALKING ON AIR
I don't think I've ever tried a pair of running shoes that feel as comfortable as Lululemon's Beyondfeel trainers. Lightweight and super supportive, the upper mesh provides plenty of air circulation too, £148. lululemon.co.uk
ECO KIT
I love that these leggings are made using dope dyeing technology that uses less water, energy and chemicals. The fit is like a second skin, and figure-contouring shading is super flattering, £45. gymshark.com
GREAT STRIDES
Keen runner Carly Glendinning tries the high-tech Peloton Tread
Reaching peak popularity during the pandemic, Peloton is known for bringing spinning classes into the home with its Bike+. But I'm at the premium fitness brand’s swish HQ in London’s Covent Garden to try the 'Tread'. The Tread is a dream machine for serious runners like me. With a 23.8" HD touchscreen (that tilts so that you can do classes on and o the treadmill), it also has front and rear-facing studio-quality speakers. I've used the Peloton Bike+ before, so I already have an account and am able to login and see all of my training metrics
to-date. Peloton is constantly pushing the boundaries when it comes to innovative content, so I’m excited to start with a ‘Lanebreak’ class – which aims to gamify running. I follow a spinning wheel around a running track on the screen, adjusting the incline and speed dials in order to hit the targets. I'm not a gamer myself, but I can definitely see how it could get additive (in the best possible way). Next up, is a 20 minute HIIT Run with the upbeat Jess Sims. This is similar to the interval training that I usually do in the gym, and I really enjoy this class. As I pick up the pace, I notice how quiet the running belt is compared to other treadmills.
I finish with a cool down run with Jermaine Johnson. The soundtrack features lots of feel-good tracks, and I'm able to save my favourites to the playlist on my profile for later. Most impressive though is the ‘Pace Targets’ feature, which allows you to personalise your running training by selecting from 10 levels at the start of the class. It suggests speed and incline ranges for you as you run, which makes me want to push myself. I might have only scratched the surface of what the Tread is capable of, but I leave definitely wanting more.
The Peloton Tread starts at £3,345. onepeloton.com
INTERIORS
CLASSIC DESIGN
CARL HANSEN & SØN
BETTER
living
Exploring a complete remodelling of a cottage in the heart of the South Downs
BetterPAD is a boutique architecture studio established in 2017, specialising in the fully integrated design and delivery of unique private homes. Their philosophy is centred on two core principles: outstanding design rigour and exceptional client service.
At the heart of their work lies a deep passion for design, with each project they undertake becoming a thrilling and enjoyable journey that culminates in a one-of-a-kind end result. They don’t confine themselves to a specific architectural style, instead it’s their unique design process that truly distinguishes them. Through thoughtful inquiry, attentive listening, and a systematic approach, they uncover outstanding and captivating designs. They have built a strong foundation of exceptional service and have enduring partnerships with clients and collaborators. Every new project they embark on is an exciting opportunity for them to do what they love, and they are immensely grateful for the trust placed in them to bring their clients' visions to life. Their service is highly personalised, and every project has a dedicated team to ensure high standards are delivered – as Absolutely uncovered when being shown round one stunning project, Surney Cottage.
“Situated in the heart of the South Downs National Park, this project was
an absolute joy to undertake,” says Paul Du y, director and architect at BetterPAD. “What began as a minor refurbishment of the existing cottage evolved into a comprehensive remodelling, extension, and landscaping project. We successfully overcame a number of development constraints, including the securing of planning permission within the South Downs National Park, with notoriously stringent planning considerations.
“The brief was to create a home that was both functional and aesthetically pleasing, while also respecting the property’s existing character and context. Given the unique and truly stunning setting, we undertook throughout site analysis, and tested a wide range of design iterations for modifying the existing windows and layout, as well as the shape and placement of the extension, resulting in a home that harmonises perfectly with its surroundings.
“The design language embraces a contemporary interpretation of a country cottage, where clean lines and modern features are o set against rustic charm and natural materials; externally, the use of untreated timber and stone complement the surrounding landscape, while the crittall glazing with dark frames provide a stunning visual contrast.
“The interior of the remodelled cottage exudes a cosy warmth while maintaining a fresh, contemporary feel. On the ground floor, the kitchen’s design perfectly complements the modern farmhouse
aesthetic, featuring a large, multifunctional kitchen island on one side. The other side features a dining table and a beautifully crafted L-shaped banquette, while the main living space boasts a large, custommade L-shaped sofa, positioned adjacent to the fireplace with a TV above, and expansive patio doors complete the space.
“The extension houses a home o ce and the master suite, which the client desired to have a more contemporary style than the original home. This is achieved through a striking lighting design featuring indirect lighting from concealed LED channels, and minimalist joinery and wall panelling.
“The three upstairs bedrooms are designed to be tranquil havens, o ering a sense of peace, privacy, and a connection to nature. Structural modifications to the windows and ceiling height enhance the natural light, while the careful selection of materials, lighting, and furnishings contributes to the serene atmosphere. Each bedroom features beautifully crafted custom wardrobes and air conditioning.
“In addition to the structural and aesthetic improvements, the property underwent a complete upgrade of its utility systems with a focus on sustainability. The energy consumption was significantly reduced through improved window e ciency and additional insulation, while a high-capacity air-source heat pump provides both heating and cooling.
“Externally, the client always wanted a larger patio than the original property o ered, but through iterative design development a much more expansive landscape design emerged. There are dwarf stone walls separating the gravel paths, tiling and beds of luscious planting. A stunning wooden entry gate creates an impressive arrival at the property.”
betterpad.co.uk
“The brief was to create a home that was both functional and aesthetically pleasing”
Glass Screen Windbreakers for patios, awnings, verandas and parasols!
CuckfieldBathrooms
The Clockhouse, High Street RH17 5JX • Telephone: 01444 414 888
By PENDLE HARTE
LINE UP
How Colours of Arley is bringing their signature stripes to a variety of projects
By EVE HERBERT
Colours of Arley and journalist and designer Jess Alavi-Ellis first teamed up in 2023 following their shared love for colour, vintage charm and sustainable materials to create the hugely successful Vintage Drop. The collection gave time-worn furniture a new lease of stripey life. The debut ‘Drop’ was in high demand with the first pieces selling within minutes of going live. Returning to vintage markets, antique sellers and trawling auctions, they sourced five pieces to restore and expertly reupholster in Colours of Arley signature stripes. The second installment, Vintage Drop 2.0, launched with a set of bar stools, a play chair, a sofa, a pet bed and an armchair. Not only does the collection give new life to preloved furniture, but the pieces are all upholstered in Colours of Arley signature recycled fabrics, which are made from bottles that have been diverted from landfill.
Bringing the South of France to East London, Colours of Arley teamed up with French design studio Mattina Moderna, to create a capsule collection of beautiful striped ‘La Petite Boîte’ lamps. The home of Mattina Moderna designer and co-founder, Clémentine Poncin, was the source of inspiration for this joint venture which celebrates the best of
the French Riviera. Reflecting the tones of the sand, sun and sea, as well as olive trees, lemon groves and the iconic, Villa Ephrussi, the chosen stripes of the lamps are reminiscent of Clementine’s treasured sundrenched coast. Mattina Moderna was founded in 2020 by a mother-daughter duo who weave together art and design into their creations. Clémentine Says: “Mattina Moderna is a slow design studio, and for us, that means creating a limited series of products that are made with heart, extreme care and are hand assembled in Nice by my mother. We are passionate about creating products that are timeless and humble, rooted in tradition and have a shared past. Collaborating with Colours of Arley felt very natural and the perfect fit for us. From the custom o ering, to limited series, love for colour combinations, and of course the story behind the stripes, our collection of lamps share a story of Nice.”
Colours of Arley’s Louisa Tratalos explains: “The cubic shape of ‘La Petite Boîte’ lamp lends itself beautifully to our signature stripes and each colour combination tells a story of the Cote D’Azur. Timeless and e ortless, the lamps will add a playful element to any room.” Combining character and sustainability, the fabric is made from 100% recycled plastic bottles.
coloursofarley.com
ALL-SINGING, ALL-DANCING.
Not to mention all the film, TV, comedy and drama.
We’re a dab hand at bringing out the best in children. Through our creative projects, performance opportunities and our diverse lessons in musical theatre, film and tv, comedy and drama, we give your child the confidence to be themselves.
ENROLLING NOW ACROSS SUSSEX
SCAN THE QR CODE TO BOOK YOUR FIRST SESSION FOR FREE
EDUCATION
BUILDING FRIENDSHIPS
Farlington School has always had a very special community. Their students are bright, witty, engaging and charming, and the staff work tirelessly to make a positive difference in guiding and supporting them to choose their own path, reflective of their interests and talents. By the time they leave the school, students are independent, grounded and rounded young people, able to confidently make their own way in life. James Passam was Farlington's first appointed Headmaster in September 2021 and over the page he tells us all about that honour.
COMPLETE The package
James Passam was Farlington School's first appointed Headmaster in September 2021, in what was their 125th anniversary year. He talks to Absolutely about the joy of overseeing the all-through school
Q Why were you keen to work at Farlington School?
A The school was at the beginning of its journey to co-education and also had recently come into the Bellevue Education group, so there was a real sense of challenge with the opportunity to lead the school on its next chapter. But also, the all-through nature of the school (6 months to 18 years) and the opportunity this o ers to consider what education can be without the interruptions of needing to change schools (as usually happens) really appealed professionally to me. In addition, the school’s rich heritage, strong family ethos and its smaller size really struck a chord with my own educational values.
Q In a nutshell, what does Farlington School o er?
A Confidence-building education nurtured within a strong family ethos that constantly encourages every pupil (no matter their age) to aspire to go beyond what they think is possible and to achieve their potential, all with a sense of fun and of living life to the full.
Q What is great about overseeing an all-through school?
A To consider education as a whole journey, from the EYFS framework for learning and development right through to preparing 18-year-olds to start their careers and progress to university or apprenticeships, and everything in between! One moment I can be meeting with our Year 13 school prefect team over breakfast, the next having lunch with Year 4s discussing the morning’s lesson on dissolving eggs, and
then spend the afternoon in our nursery attending a party with our children (all of which happened today!). Such variety is motivating, inspiring and immensely fun.
Q What would we find in a typical classroom at Farlington?
A Our school is a Google school in that from Year 3 upwards every pupil has a Chromebook, and all classes also have their own Google Classroom where teachers provide notes, resources and tasks to support their pupils’ learning. Each classroom has a screen enabling pupils to cast their own device, enabling collaborative learning and sharing of work. Our classrooms reflect the di erent subject areas and the passion of our teachers. Examples of pupils' work cover the boards and walls, and it is worth mentioning that our art room is like a professional art gallery, such is the quality of our pupils work on display.
Q Do you have a particular teaching ethos?
A As a school we have actually spent a lot of time on this and have developed a whole-school approach so that every lesson has clear and meaningful lesson objectives,
JAMES PASSAM
“If we can find the fun, we can find the spark, and from there we can grow self-confidence that will carry across to other areas of learning”
and success criteria are provided so that our children can succeed.
We encourage sca olding to support learning and modelling (what a good one looks like), as well as promoting a growth mindset approach (we are not afraid of failure – we use such experiences to learn and then we try again).
Q Do you o er plenty of opportunities outside the classroom too?
A What happens outside of the classroom is immensely important for children’s development, building self-confidence and ensuring that school is a fun, challenging and rewarding environment. Our pupils are able to access activities and clubs before school, after lunch, and at the end of the day, ranging across music, drama, sport, dance,
equestrian, academic clubs and clinics, martial arts, debating, Duke of Edinburgh, forest school, homework clubs, design technology, Dungeons and Dragons, Lego, and undoubtedly a fair few more I have failed to list here! The concept is simple – if we can find the fun, we can find the spark –and from there we can grow self-confidence and self-belief that will carry across to other areas of learning both inside and outside of the classroom.
Q What are you most excited about this new school year?
A We have just launched our new and improved 'Framework for Pupil Success', which has been developed in-house and is unique to Farlington. Based on our core values of individuality, opportunity and
community, it sets out a framework for providing 'A Future Ready Education', 'A Culture For Personal Growth', and 'Our Farlington Family', with at its centre a new learning behaviour model to help pupils of all ages become more independent and e ective learners. From nursery to Sixth Form, we are embedding it into every aspect of our school life, the aim of which is to maximise the opportunity and advantage we provide as an all-through school and to empower our pupils to become the very best versions of themselves. I can’t wait to see what our pupils will go on to achieve this year.
Farlington School's next Open Morning will take place on Saturday 1st March 2025. To book your place, visit farlingtonschool.com
STAR GOLD
Olympic medallist Emily Craig returned to Mayfield School to unveil their new wellbeing centre
"THE SAME NURTURING ETHOS THAT SHAPED MY OWN JOURNEY REMAINS STRONG"
Mayfield School was thrilled to welcome back former pupil and Olympic Rowing Champion, Emily Craig, to o cially open their new Wellbeing Centre recently. Emily, who attended Mayfield from 2004 to 2011, spent the day with students, sharing her inspiring Olympic journey, from narrowly missing out on a medal at Tokyo 2020 by just 0.01 seconds to triumphing with a Gold medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics alongside her lightweight double sculls partner, Imogen Grant. Emily says: “I was genuinely delighted to return to the school I called home for seven years and to open St Raphael’s Wellbeing Centre. It’s wonderful to see that the same nurturing ethos that shaped my own journey still remains strong. This incredible space is a testament to the school’s commitment to supporting students in every aspect of their wellbeing. In my career, I’ve learned the importance of balance and looking after both mind and body, and it’s inspiring to see a centre like this that embodies those values. I have no doubt that St Raphael’s will provide a sanctuary of calm, helping students thrive for years to come.”
Headmistress Deborah Bligh adds:
“It was a joy to welcome Emily back to Mayfield. She epitomises what it means to be a Mayfield Girl – her journey is one of courage, resilience, and determination. Emily is an outstanding role model, and we are incredibly grateful she took the time to visit. The entire school was buzzing with excitement, and we couldn’t be prouder to call her one of our own. There’s no one more fitting to open our new Wellbeing Centre, as her pursuit of Olympic success reflects the need for both a strong mind and a healthy body.”
St. Raphael’s provides a central hub for student support, with on-site registered nurses, a counsellor, and the Wellbeing and Pastoral teams. This dedicated space highlights the school’s commitment to the holistic wellbeing of its students, parents, and sta .
“At Mayfield, we recognise that happy and balanced students are better equipped to excel academically and personally, which is why we continually invest in the wellbeing of our community,” adds Deborah. “The new centre is a testament to this commitment, o ering a place where every student can seek support in a caring and nurturing environment.”
mayfieldgirls.org
why everyone is talking about…
THE BRIGHTON LIGHTS
The illuminating event returns looking even bigger and brighter
The Brighton Lights, Brighton’s new festive evening, is heading back to One Garden Brighton, promising an even more spectacular experience for 2024. With new dates, an extended route, and additional light installations, this year’s event is set to be a highlight of the winter season.
The Brighton Lights is an annual festive event that brings together stunning light displays, music, performances and festive cheer to create a magical winter experience for all ages. Now in its second year, the event continues to grow, o ering new and exciting features each year.
Building on the success of last year, this year will include new features and experiences to make this year’s event bigger and brighter. Over selected dates from Saturday 7 December to Monday 23 December, The Brighton Lights will o er a blend of lights, music, winter walks, and street food.
New for 2024 includes an extended route, where you can enjoy a longer walk with additional light displays and interactive elements. There will also be an enhanced festival atmosphere, featuring more music, performances and festive vibes.
The Brighton Lights is not just an event for families with young children, but also a perfect evening for adults seeking a festive night out with friends. Everyone is welcome to immerse themselves in the winter magic.
Speaking on behalf of the Directors of The Brighton Lights, Poppie Sharman
says: “As Brightonians, we are so proud to bring The Brighton Lights back for a second year. We hope you’ll join us again for this celebration of light and community, with lots more festive cheer!”
Gather your loved ones and make memories with a brighter, bolder, and more beautiful winter experience this December.
Tickets are now on sale and can be booked via the website at thebrightonlights.co.uk
