Absolutely West Essex June 2021

WEST ESSEX

West Essex JUNE 2021

SPECIAL 20 pages of inspiration and advice

JUNE 2021

Bianca Westwood

Chigwell

CHIC Debra Seller and 45 years of fashion innovation

The Chingford sports presenter on teaming up with Ray Winstone

Pool

ABSOLUTELY-WESTESSEX.CO.UK

PARTY

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How the King’s Oak is ready for life post-lockdown ST YLISH / INTELLIGENT / ELEGANT

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B e d : V i n d ö | Fa b r i c : D e s i g n e r s G u i l d G l e n v i l l e O y s t e r | V i n d ö C a r p e t : L i g h t B e i g e B e d L i n e n : St o r m P e b b l e | B e d s i d e Ta b l e : H o l m e B l a c k 15 WIGMORE ST R EET | LO ND O N W1U 1P E +4 4 (0) 2 0 39 8 2 3 25 2 | m a r y le bo n e @ c a r pedie m beds.co.u k c a r p e d i e m b e d s o f s w e d e n | # m y u n w i n d | w w w.c a r pedie m beds.co.u k

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ABSOLUTELY

Contents JUNE 2021

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100 C U LT U R E 8 ABSOLUTELY LOVES

FOOD & DRINK 41 DREAM ON

16 BIANCA WESTWOOD

42 FOOD NOTES

20 ELECTRIC GALLERY

44 KINGS OAK

What we’re coveting this month

A rather unique cookbook is out now

On her new sporting venture

The latest from the West Essex area

The venue livening up the arts scene

Party time at our cover location

FA S H I O N & B E AU T Y 26 ANOUSKA GEORGIA

A B S O L U T E LY H O M E 66 YARDART

28 DEBRA CHIGWELL

70 KITCHEN STORAGE

36 WOW HYDRATE

100 PROPERTY ROUND UP

Our fashion columnist gets us set for summer

The story behind the iconic fashion shop

The company re-energising the drinks industry

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The colourful way to transform your garden

A B S O L U T E LYW E S T E S S E X .C O. U K 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.

Stylish ways to hide the pots and pans

The hottest homes to buy

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EDITOR MARK KEBBLE DIGITAL EDITOR LAYLA TURNER ART DIRECTOR PAWEL KUBA SENIOR DESIGNER MIKE ROBERTS MID-WEIGHT DESIGNER REBECCA NOONAN MAGAZINE MANAGER PATRICK DUNNE MEDIA CONSULTANTS TANIA BOHRN, CLAIRE YATES BRAND PARTNERSHIPS MANAGER NAVINDER LALL FINANCIAL DIRECTOR JERRIE KOLECI CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER ALEXANDRA HVID DIRECTORS CRAIG DAVIES, LEAH DAY, JAMES FUSCHILLO NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ALEXANDRA HUNTER MANAGING DIRECTOR SHERIF SHALTOUT

For editorial enquiries please email: mark@zest-media.com For advertising enquiries please call 07968 757 129 or email: tania@zest-media.com

Studio G06, Wenlock Studios, 50-52 Wharf Road, London N1 7EU; 020 7704 0588 Zest Media Publications Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Zest Media Publications Ltd. take no responsibility for omissions or errors.

We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters.

All rights reserved.

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Fo l l ow Us O n Fa c e b o o k @ABSOLUTELYWESTESSEX T wi t t e r @ABSOLUTELYWESTE In s t a g ra m @ABSOLUTELYWESTESSEX We b si t e

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Editor’s

LETTER

Y

Mark Kebble

Ricky Paul

Why it's best to say it with flowers

The King's Oak

The summer season starts here in High Beach

ou don’t need me to tell you it’s been a year unlike many others. After 20 years of launching and editing magazines, I found myself in the employment wilderness, made worse due to the fact that I couldn’t spend time with my family in Epping, or watch my nephew playing football in Loughton.

But then, as restrictions slowly eased, and on a visit to Hornchurch Country Park, my phone rang and a spark was rekindled. The result is this, your new luxury lifestyle magazine for the West Essex area.

Spending time talking to so many local people, it was obvious there are plenty of stories to tell. There’s Avril Mills MBE, who has been awarded honorary Freeman of the Borough of Redbridge, or the 45 years in the fashion business for Debra Seller. Then there’s the newer kids on the block, like Jai Francois at Electric Gallery and the two talented women behind YardArt. And not forgetting those who seem to be at the centre of everything that’s West Essex, so we welcome three columnists who will be a regular feature every month: Haifa Jordan, Anouska Georgia and Hayley Smith.

So I hope you enjoy this first issue, with much more to be found on our dedicated digital channels. It’s been quite a year, but now is the right time for a change.

ABSOLUTELY’S June issue highlights

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MARK KEBBLE EDITOR

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O N T H E C OV E R Photographer: Catherine Harbour Stylist: Antonia Kraskowski Hair & makeup: Caroline Piasecki using Vanderohe Model: Ariana Damant at Nevs Fashion assistant: Gavrielle Weiss Location: King’s Oak, High Beach kingsoakhotel.com • Suit jacket, £235; shorts, £110; shoes, £135, all Reiss reiss.com Knitted t-shirt, £330, Missoni at Fenwick fenwick.co.uk Clutch bag, £850, Jimmy Choo jimmychoo.com Gold earrings, from a selection, Aaria aaria.co.uk

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Electric Gallery

Inside Jai Francois's stunning South Woodford gallery

Absolutely Home

20 pages of interviews, tips and news

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Wish LIST 10 things we Absolutely love COMPILED BY

PENDLE HARTE

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C U LT S TAT U S Couverture's latest arrivals fuse new and emerging designers with more established cult brands. Seasonal favourites include beautiful floral print silk dresses from Christian Wijnants and blooming puff sleeve blouses of Rejina Pyo mixed with slow fashion labels Untitled Co. and Ssone. couvertureandthegarbstore.com

TRUE BLUE Redefining relaxed Scandinavian glamour, Valle&Vik's pared back silhouettes showcase folk-art inspired prints and brilliant colours splashed on perfectly cut luxurious silk. The Cannes Do dress in turquoise, £415 valleandvik.com

EDITOR’S PICK

RARE F LOW E R Guerlain's annual limited edition bottle of Muguet lily of the valley fragrance is an equisite creation by young Parisian textile and paper designer Lucie Touré in a limited edition of 4,500. £450 guerlain.com

F L AT T E R YO U R S E L F This Square Neck Floral Dress from Vero Moda is perfect for keeping cool on sun drenched days at home or away. The flattering neckline and loose style go perfectly with trainers or sandals. Add a denim jacket and you're good to go. £45 sourcelifestyle.com

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ABSOLUTELY • LOVES

O N E T O WAT C H This ladies TAG Heuer watch is part of the Formula 1 collection and features a blue dial with Arabic and index markers with the date function at 3 o'clock. £1,000 bakerbrothersdiamonds.com

STELLA FOR G R E E N P E AC E

G O L D S TA R

Stella McCartney is releasing a capsule supporting Greenpeace’s campaign to stop deforestation in the Amazon. Launched as part of the Summer 2021 collection, the Stella x Greenpeace capsule features graphics inspired by vintage eco activist designs on sweatshirts made from soft organic cotton in pale blue and white marble colourways. stellamccartney.com

We love these 18ct yellow gold and stainless steel Cartier Santos Midi watches. The bezels are customized with diamonds set by Martin Oliva's studio. Available now in store. martinoliva.co.uk

A SPECIAL C U P PA These new stunning initial mugs from Yvonne Ellen will cheer up any coffee or tea break. Each mug has a gold initial decorated with an animal. The animal prints blend harmoniously with each letter, creating a beautiful design that makes these mugs very special. £12.50 sourcelifestyle.com

IN THE SHADE GIGI Studios' new sunglasses designs are made in natural acetate and inspired by the 1970s. All of them have the triangular details characteristic of the Vanuard collection. gigistudios.com

DIVE IN Flattering swimwear is on everybody's wishlist at the moment and Amelie's Follies has a great selection. We love the Hypnotique Bette Miraclesuit in blue. ameliesfollies.co.uk

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C U LT U R E

CLASSIC APPEAL WANSTEAD VINTAGE 5 JUNE, WANSTEAD UNITED REFORMED CHURCH

Back by popular demand, Wanstead Vintage will once again be opening their doors to everything that’s classic and retro in the world. Visitors can expect the finest jewellery, rare fashion finds and quirky accessories, meaning you are sure to leave with something a little unique to add to your look or home. wansteadvintage.com

Agenda 14 • Bianca Westwood 16 • Electric Gallery 20 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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CULTURE • COLUMN

Curtain R A I S E R

Just in time for lockdown easing, Absolutely West Essex’s Haifa Jordan starts her monthly look at the local entertainment scene

HAIFA’S

H

Top Tips for June

 Best Outdoor Space:

The Travellers Friend, Woodford  Best Revamp:

Il Bacio/Barber Café, Buckhurst Hill  Best Private Hire:

Soiree, Buckhurst Hill

ello lovely readers and welcome to my new column. To say I am excited would be an understatement. For those that don’t know me, writing about entertainment is right up my street as I have been involved in the industry for over 20 years, from Pop Idol to X Factor – I have pretty much lived and breathed this business most of my life. I look forward to shining the spotlight on the local West Essex scene every month.

I cannot wait to tell you about all the wonderful places we have on our doorstep, coming at a time where local support is essential to the industry having suffered huge blows over the pandemic. I always have people approach me to ask where the best places are to eat, dance and drink, and I now have the opportunity to share my favourites with you all – so sit back and enjoy.

I love music and being a vocalist myself I really enjoy listening to talent. Music venues and restaurants that offer live music have grown in popularity all over Essex, and one of the newest additions is Melin Chigwell. This beautifully designed restaurant and private event venue has so much to offer, with three stunning private dining areas, ground floor main restaurant space, and upstairs bar and nightclub area, so you are not going to fall short on

IT WILL BE GREAT TO SEE LIVE MUSIC ONCE AGAIN

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ENJOYING IL BACIO

staying entertained for the duration of your evening. With live artists and DJs five evenings a week, you can expect top class vocalists through to talented musicians.

It is particularly difficult to find a venue with a mix of quality live music plus a DJ without travelling into central London, but here it is and I for one am totally enamoured with the fact it is on our doorstep.

It’s wonderful to be performing again and I cannot wait to see faces new and familiar at my forthcoming events. On the early May Bank Holiday Sunday, I performed at The Travellers Friend. Sing It Events put together a fantastic set up and the afternoon was a huge success, so much so I am returning to a sold-out show on 30 May. In June, see me at Melin Chigwell (11 June, the perfect reason to check this new venue out), at Soul Sunday with Sing It Events (27 June, venue TBC) and a fundraiser at Woodford Wells Cricket Club (27 June). It’s good to be back.

Tickets to the Haifa Live Boat party on 11 July 2021 are now available to buy at skiddle.com/e/35791516

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The Agenda F I L M

Hideaway Cinema From 20 May VARIOUS LOCATIONS Hideaway Cinema is returning this summer, with a host locations dotted around the county and beyond. Film fans are invited to choose from a number of movies to enjoy outside on warm summer evenings in some of the most picturesque locations.

Scheduled films include Mamma Mia and Pulp Fiction. hideawaycinema.com

MU S I C

Feel The Music BA R B I CA N • F RO M 17 MAY

After a year with no live events, Barbican has revealed that its Live From The Barbican series will take place from 17 May. The critically acclaimed series will feature performances from Moses Boyd and the BBC Symphony Orchestra. The Barbican Hall will operate at a reduced capacity for a safe and socially distanced experience.

Silk Street, London EC2Y 8DS barbican.org

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EV E N T

Tandem Skydive

On-Going VA R I O U S Challenge yourself to a Tandem Skydive in aid of Haven House. Before your flight you will be provided with a comprehensive ground safety briefing. You will jump from up to 13,000 feet attached to your instructor using a specially designed dual harness. The instructor controls the freefall, parachute opening and landing, leaving you free to enjoy the view. havenhouse.org.uk

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CULTURE • WHAT'S ON

A RT

By the sea 18 June-17 July H AY L E T T S G A L L E R Y Barbara Peirson has lived and worked in Essex for many years. This exhibition is a collection of glorious seasonal paintings, from crashing waves to families enjoying the beach, to dog walkers out in all weathers to the natural patterns of the coast. One aspect about Barbara’s work we know for certain is that her colour palette will be full of soft magnificent colours, inviting compositions and a strong affinity with our local surroundings. haylettsgallery.com

A DATE WITH

LO N D O N See the city through fresh eyes with a unique tour

TREASURE HUNT EXPERIENCES Take a journey through London with HiddenCity and experience undiscovered places and secrets about the capital. Opt for the Cheshire Cat game and solve a range of clues on an ‘adventure in the strange, surreal and absurd’. inthehiddencity.com

E X H I B I TI O N

ELECTRIC CITY:

GOD’S OWN JUNKYARD TAKEOVER AT LEADENHALL MARKET

This Month’s Must See

26 May - 31 July MONUMENT From 26 May, Leadenhall Market is getting a neon makeover from the brains behind God’s Own Junkyard. Designed to inject colour and joy back into our lives after a difficult year, the exhibition will celebrate the reopening of the market’s 35 restaurants, bars and shops with an immersive technicolour light production. leadenhallmarket.co.uk

N E V I L L E ' S I SL A N D

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22 JU NE - 3 JU LY • QUEEN 'S THEATRE HORN CHURCH

our out-of-condition clueless middle managers are forced on the outdoor awayday from hell. Shipwrecked, wrapped in thick fog and cut off from civilisation with one cold sausage between them, Gordon, Angus, Roy and the hapless Neville are about to experience the misadventure of their lives...

Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT queens-theatre.co.uk

GUIDED WALKS Discover the history behind the streets of London with a guided walk. The Jack The Ripper Tour takes you through the dark streets of Whitechapel and Spitalfields, revealing the city's dark history.

The tour is dedicated to the victims of Jack The Ripper. walks.com

HOP ON, HOP OFF

Play tourist for the day with one of London’s famous open top bus tours. See London illuminated with a ‘London By Night’ bus tour, or enjoy a night of laughs with ‘Comedy Night On An Open Top Bus’. Tickets are valid for 24, 48 or 72 hours. goldentours.com

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“It's always going to be more difficult to break down barriers”

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23/05/2021 22:25

CULTURE • INTERVIEW

the p e r f e c t

MATCH Chingford’s Bianca Westwood discusses teaming up with Ray Winstone, a dream season for West Ham and 20 years at Sky

By MARK KEBBLE

I

t’s meant in the nicest possible way, but when I blurt out, “It feels like you have been a fixture on Sky Sports forever” to Bianca Westwood, I realise it may not come across like that. “My first live report was in 2013,” she laughs back to a relieved interviewer.

“I wasn’t doing them every week, but I would say I have been regularly [reporting live] for about six years.”

For avid viewers of Sky Sports’ flagship Soccer Saturday show, Westwood has been an important part of football fans’ lives for several reasons. Firstly, there’s the fact she has actually been able to watch football in the flesh, when the vast majority of us have been shut out thanks to the pandemic. “I do feel privileged,” she says. “I like to do my Instagram stories on a Saturday, so all the behind the scenes stuff – like working my way up to the gantry, where I am sat, what my view is like – and I have had so many messages thanking me, just for helping them to feel a part of it. It’s been quite rewarding to do that because I get to go every single week

and I think sometimes you take that for granted when you are a reporter, especially when these people have been going to watch their clubs since they were kids.”

Second, when she made her debut on Soccer Saturday, she was the first female reporter to appear on the show.

“It’s actually 20 years since I have been at Sky,” Westwood explains. “I started off as a runner, then I was an editorial assistant, then associate producer, and then I badgered my producer to let me report.

At the time, there weren’t any other female reporters, only Clare Tomlinson [who was an anchor-woman]. It took me a long time, I was banging my drum for a while, but I got there in the end – it’s always going to be more difficult to break down those barriers.”

She remembers being “petrified” on her first live game at Bournemouth. “Live match reporting is a very specific skill and unless you have tried it, you can never ever know. You don’t know what’s happening next, you can never prepare for it.” Unfortunately – and something that remains an issue given the recent

sporting boycott of social media in protest at the awful abuse still prevalent across platforms – Westwood wasn’t afforded time by those who think they know what they’re talking about. “I had very unsympathetic people on social media telling me how rubbish I was and I went through a tough time. I am happy to say that now 99% of fans are completely supportive of what I do and of other women coming through.”

Westwood grew up loving football and is a passionate West Ham fan, which given their season makes talking about the Premier League an easy proposition. “I think I am still a little bit in shock,” she laughs. At the time of writing, West Ham were still in the hunt for the sought after top four that would give them access to the riches of the Champions League next season. “That really is just what dreams are made of,” she says on that fact. “That is what the board said they would deliver, but I didn’t feel like it would truly happen. It is possible, but I would be happy with a top six place.

If we did do it, it would be unbelievable…”

She hasn’t strayed too far from her Essex A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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CULTURE • INTERVIEW HOSTING THE PRIDE OF ESSEX SPORTS AWARDS

READY TO REPORT

Q What has been the most memorable match you have covered for Sky Sports?

A There’s a couple. There’s the one in Dagenham where I got caught in a storm. That was in the very early days and it went viral. Another one was Norwich v Notts Forest. Norwich were 3-0 down and they came back to score in the 97th minute for 3-3.

Basically me and Jeff [Stelling, Soccer Saturday’s legendary presenter] said it was game over. It was the year Norwich came up to the Premier League (2019) and they were 3-0 down and Jeff and I wrote them off, and they came back and scored three in the last ten minutes. It was a brilliant game and we got a lot of stick online about that, but it was all good fun.

roots, living today in Chingford. It’s why, outside of her TV work, you can see Westwood getting involved with community events like the Pride of Essex Sports Awards, last held in 2019. “It’s important to help the community local to me,” she says. “I thought the Pride of Essex Sports Awards was a fantastic idea because it’s not often these people, those behind the scenes, are celebrated. The people who volunteer and dedicate hours and hours of their time to keep football clubs going, to keep young kids in their swimming competitions, whatever sport it may be.

It’s such a shame we had to cancel it in 2020, I really hope they pick it up again as that first [event] was a roaring success.”

CHINGFORD IS HOME

WORKING WITH RAY WINSTONE

Then there’s Westwood’s involvement in Integral Sports Management, alongside none other than Ray Winstone. “A good friend of mine, Gary Pettit, is business partners with Ray,” she explains. “We are all West Ham fans, so that’s how the connection was made. Initially Gary’s son, Casey, played in academy football, but he was released by West Ham and then Millwall, which was obviously a huge blow to him as a kid. He was lucky to have Gary and his support system around, so he could go again (and is now flourishing at Luton Town), but Gary identified other kids don’t have that luxury. Ray is very interested in the idea of aftercare – are they advised, are they helped to get another club – so they came up with Integral Sports Management. It’s not going to be some huge conglomerate looking after hundreds and hundreds of players, it’s tailored to each athlete. They provide mentorship, and help with lifestyle, finances, and education.”

Westwood works as a media consultant for the start-up, and is currently hosting the Integral Chat podcast, where she sits down and discusses issues facing footballers with the likes of Mark Noble, Joe Cole and Trevor Sinclair. “Obviously we can’t help every player, but we can help change the system,” Westwood says, showing her days as a trailblazer in sport will continue for many more years to come.

PAELLA AT LAS TAPAS IS A LOCAL FAVOURITE

Bianca Westwood’s TOP 3 C H I NG F O R D P I C K S BREEZE This kept us going during lockdown with takeaways!

• L A S TA PA S I love the tapas here on Station Road, they do the most amazing paella and sangria, and have a lovely outdoor spot too.

• HELEN’S COFFEE ON THE GREEN This is really lovely, a great little coffee spot I love going to.

INTEGRAL SPORTS M A N AG E M E N T Follow Bianca Westwood on Twitter @beewestwood and Instagram @biancawestwood integralsportsmanagement.co.uk

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THE ELECTRIC GALLERY IS READY TO WELCOME VISITORS AGAIN

DAVID SHRIGLEY I AM CURRENTLY ON FIRE

Buzz

TA L K

Don’t think for one minute that a pandemic would get in the way of Electric Gallery founder, Jai Francois

P “I've always had an appreciation for an image that looked good” 20

by MARK KEBBLE

icture the scene: a pandemic has wiped out your main source of income, you find out your fiancée is expecting, and when you decide to open an art gallery a second lockdown scuppers any kind of grand unveiling. “We kind of just accepted that we’d be at the mercy of lockdowns and it was just an adapt and overcome moment for us,” says Jai Francois calmly.

Such a response won’t come as a surprise to those who know the Electric Gallery founder well. An owner of a Banksy at 15, named in Music Week’s “30 Under 30” list at the age of 25, birthed his own private art curation and consultancy business…

Jai Francois does not hang around when something piques his interest.

Although art hasn’t always been his main focus, it’s something that has always bubbled away in the background. “I’ve always had an appreciation for an image that looked good, but I didn’t start collecting art seriously until I was in my mid-20s,” he says. What about the Banksy? “My dad was a graphic designer and

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CULTURE • PROFILE

RUSSELL MARSHALL KATE MOSS MULTIPLE (PINK ON PEARL)

on the zeitgeist of cool. He happened to take me to ‘Santa’s Ghetto’ back in 2003, which was a Banksy pop-up shop event in Kingly Court, just off Carnaby Street. This was a time before the name Banksy really meant anything outside of street art fanatics, where you could pick up prints for a few hundred pounds, not the hundreds of thousands similar now go for.”

It suggests he always had the eye for good artwork, to which he responds: “This is the beauty of art, what’s a good eye for it? Art is solely based on your personal opinion.

The majority of the art I like is modern contemporary and that’s what I buy and sell.

I guess fans of contemporary art will say I’ve got a good eye for the next breakout artist, but I just go with my gut and buy what I love.”

During a successful stint working in the music industry, Francois continued to buy art and soon had amassed quite the collection. “I reached a point where if I wanted anything new I had to make space,” he laughs. “So I started selling on early pieces of art I’d

purchased. I made good returns on lots of the pieces and started getting approached by friends and colleagues asking if I could help them buy some art, which I did, and from there things just kind of snowballed.”

The result was By Francois, which since 2018 has helped curate art collections for high net worth individuals, celebrities, businesses and even the occasional Premier League footballer. Soon, his attention turned to his own gallery. “I’d wanted to open an affordable art gallery for a couple of years, but had talked myself out of it,” he explains. “But then the pandemic hit, the live music sector – where I made most of my living – evaporated overnight, my fiancée and I found out we were having a baby, so suddenly it was a real now or never moment. And I decided it was now.”

So, in December 2020, Electric Gallery opened in South Woodford. “My fiancée and I moved here a few years ago and I’ve seen the demographic of the area A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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CULTURE • PROFILE

Jai Francois's 3 OF THE BEST

“We were thrown into the deepest of deep ends and learned to swim very fast”

KEITH HARING - CRACK DOWN

CHRIS BRACEY & CHRIS MOON IT’S LOVE

changing,” he says on the location. “I felt the local residents would really embrace the opening of a gallery and so far they have. There’s nothing like us for miles and a lot of creative minded residents have all showed us a lot of love since we opened – albeit a brief opening.”

Lockdown hasn’t stopped Francois and the Electric Gallery. Their online presence has seen the business respond well – “We were thrown in at the deepest of deep ends and subsequently learned to swim very fast,” he reflects – so we all wait with bated breath about what happens next. “We will hopefully be able to start doing shows again, print releases, more exhibitions, talks with artists and much more,” he says on the future. “I even want to start doing live screen printing in the gallery so you can print with the artist, a real first for the area.” There’s no doubting good things are just around the corner.

DA M I E N H I R S T Arguably the most well-known living British artist. The way in which he works with the concept of “death” in a lot of his work is very interesting.

In particular his works where he encases animals in formaldehyde are very striking, almost like something you’d see in a museum compared to a gallery. I’m not sure how my fiancée would feel about having a dead shark in our kitchen though...

• YAYO I KU S A M A One of Japan’s most famous artists. She’s 92-years-old and is still producing incredible, exciting work. I’d love to own one of her Pumpkin Sculptures one day, they are just so bright and colourful.

• GEORGE CONDO Collected by serious art collectors and hip-hop mega stars such as Kanye West and Travis Scott. Condo is considered as one of the American greats and moved in the same circles as Haring & Basquiat. The way he approaches portraits is interesting – painting subjects from multiple angles (a reflection of all personality traits) and the outcomes being very abstract, slightly menacing portraits.

electricgallery.co.uk

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FILL YOUR WALLS WITH LOVE

12 High Road, South Woodford, London E18 2QL www.electricgallery.co.uk • @theelectricgallery

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FA S H I O N

DECADES OF DELIGHT DEBRA CHIGWELL

Since 1984, Debra Seller has been serving the fashion needs of West Essex locals and beyond. You can always expect elegance and easy wearability with her stock, and there are styles to suit all shapes and sizes. Turn to page 28 to read about her journey to date.

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ANOUSKA GEORGIA

GEOMETRIC PRINT OVERSIZED SHIRT DRESS, £49.99, ZARA.COM

DIANE VON FURSTENBERG FOR H&M, CUSHION COVERS, £39.99, HM.COM

Summer

STYLE

Every month Anouska Georgia will bring you the latest fashion news from the high street and independent brands, with the occasional twist thrown in too

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H

ello and welcome to my first style edit for Absolutely West Essex! So many fashion designers have extended their signature style to homeware over the years, and last month saw the iconic Diane Von Furstenberg team with high street favourite H&M to launch the most stunning homeware collection. Featuring some of her signature prints over vases, cushions, candles and so much more, it’s a collection worth investing in to achieve that designer look without the price tag.

With alfresco dining firmly back on the agenda, it’s time to re-think our wardrobes and say goodbye to lockdown leggings, and say hello to flowing dresses, wide leg trousers, statement blouses and even – dare I say it – heels. Don't worry though, the high street has been working hard behind the scenes during the pandemic and its stores have re-opened with an explosion of brunching and dinner date suitable attire to work with every style and budget.

Floral prints make its annual return, but this year they reappear in the delicate form of "Meadow" print. H&M have fully embraced this, their in-house print designers have been busy hand-painting delicate daisies and dahlias in watercolour to feature on organic cotton and linens in a whole array of styles, from hats to flowing dresses, blouses and skirts. It's

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FASHION • COLUMN

A N O U S K A’ S

Must Haves

C H AYA DAY D R E S S So here is the wardrobe staple white dress that I’ve picked as my must have.

It's by independant brand Vita Grace, who offer the most stunning collections of easy to wear fashion. £145 vitagrace.co.uk

A R I ZO N A L OV E P E A R L S A N DA L S LINEN BLEND MEADOW PRINT DRESS, £34.99, HM.COM

“It's time to say bye to lockdown leggings and hello to flowing dresses” definitely worth taking a look, and priced from £9.99 it's budget friendly too.

Zara as always has launched a fabulous SS21 couture detailed collection at high street prices. This season they have run with bold block colour and geometric prints, which flows through from shoes to dresses and smart tailored suits, and there are lots of brightly coloured shoes and bags to accessorise with too. If you need an outfit for a wedding or garden party, you will be spoilt for choice at Zara right now.

Broderie Anglaise will never go away!

This truly English embroidery technique first featured in fashion in the 19th century and has dominated summer style ever since. It’s delicate and oh so pretty

appearance can be seen this season across all collections from designer to high street – some of my favourite pieces are from La Redoute and Asos, both of which have stunning blouses featuring this fabric. Team these with wide leg jeans for a classic 70s look.

Another wardrobe staple that is back with new styling details is the white flowing dress. We should all have one of these in our wardrobes and the more you can spend on one, the better, as it will see you through many years to come. I've chosen this as one of this month’s must haves: the key to a good one is a good breathable fabric, lining and classic timeless detailing.

The once pretty basic and, let's face it, a little bit ugly trekking sandal has been adorned.

Now featuring everything from pearls to studs, vintage denim and lace, they are no longer just for the mountains. £140 brownsfashion.com

JEWELLERY Anouska Georgia London specialises in 14kt gold filled jewellery which is non tarnish, waterproof and fade proof. Team this with on-trend collections to create a stunning signature stack. £12-£65 anouskageorgialondon.com

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DEBRA SELLER

Q&A

Q ue e n

of CHIGWELL Debra Seller has been a leading light in the fashion industry for over four decades. Here is how it all happened

By MARK KEBBLE

“I love to create a look and not be bound by branded ranges to this day”

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Q Your career in fashion started 45 years ago in the West End… A In 1976, immediately on leaving school, I found a position as showroom model in the West End fashion district. It was for a leading fashion label, Frank Usher, followed

by Lady London & Ladies Pride. These companies are where I learnt the foundation of fabrics, design, manufacturing, and sales.

The fashion district then was exactly what you'd imagine. Most days I would see Philip Green, Ozzie Clark, Peter Golding, Jon Adam, Bill Gibb, to name just a few.

Traders and workers would be pushing 6ft rails of garments along the street, with vans and transport bumper to bumper, lots of noise and excitement. Looking back I believe it was one of the top handful of fashion districts in the world, everything was to hand, designers, wholesalers, manufacturers, showrooms, all within touching distance from each other.

Q Would you have ever imagined you’d still be working in fashion now?

A Yes, I never once wanted to do anything else, even through three recessions of trading, and other ups and downs. The fashion industry got in my blood.

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FASHION • Q&A

Q Then you opened in Chigwell in 1984…

A I have always loved the area – we are

accessible to central London, yet next to Epping Forest. The area certainly had more of a village feel, but surprisingly the parade has always been buoyant.

Q You started as a showroom model, but were you always thinking about the business side?

A Not intentionally. Initially I would buy manufacturers samples on a Friday, and sell them at the weekend from home as an addition to my salary. As it happens I still have many of those customers to this day. I consider them friends.

DEBRA OPENED IN CHIGWELL IN 1984

Q What inspired you to open your own shop?

A I was approached in 1979 to buy merchandise for a chain of seven shops in Northern Ireland, they wanted the very latest London trends in their stores quickly. I had to source ranges of garments to ship for them twice a week, all whilst I was doing a full time job – it was the start of having to work for myself. I was married in 1981 so didn’t wish to see customers in the evenings, so a retail shop was the right move.

Q What made you different?

A I love to create a look and not be bound

by branded ranges to this day – although I do stock just a couple of brands, but they have to fit my brief. On the whole I am creative and always put together my own collections from many dozens of different sources to get the look my clients want.

Q What kind of experience do you offer customers visiting today?

A We are very friendly and passionate about what we do, our team are professional and spend whatever time it takes to get things right, and for customers to feel comfortable with their choice.

We are often like a busy club, it’s buzzy and happy, a nice atmosphere to be in.

Q What looks are you loving right now?

A Generally speaking, certain things

don’t change: elegance, easy wearability, and it’s always about the shape to flatter your figure. Right now I love the colour lilac, it’s not been worn for years, and looks fabulous and fresh for the summer. As for styles we have such a huge selection I really can’t choose!

Q Finally Debra, where do you go from here?

A Today, I dream of having time to do other things, like family time of course, and time to take a breath and do all the things I’ve been unable to do due to a busy working life. It’s a double edge sword so let’s just see how I feel tomorrow morning!

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FASHION • JEWELLERY

Flower power Floral jewels are guaranteed to bring joy B y PENDLE HARTE

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PAREL PAREL

ANNOUSHKA

WILHELMINA GARCIA

Pansy studs, £68 parelparel.com

Diamond and lapis tulip drop earrings, £2,025 annoushka.com

Gold tulip necklace, £170 wilhelminagarcia.com

HELENA THULIN

10 DECO ART

NINFA HANDMADE

Viola Tricolor earrings, £149 helenathulin.com

Chamomile flower earrings, £139 10decoart.com

Tulip earrings, £45 ninfahandmade.com

CLED

MONDO MONDO

PAREL PAREL

Periwinkle trio earrings, £180 thecled.com

Diamond daisy studs, £189 mondo-mondo.com

Morning Glory earrings, £85 parelparel.com

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

O UTE R LI M I TS

ESSEX BOOTCAMP At a time when gyms are now welcoming us back indoors, don’t forget about the benefits of exercising outdoors. Essex Bootcamp host classes in Epping and Loughton and are the best way to get fit outside. essexbootcamp.co.uk

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • NOTES

BEAUTY NOTES

The latest in skincare and healthy advice B y L AY L A T U R N E R

HELLO

EDITOR’S PICK

Hydra-tion

B y L AY L A T U R N E R

The Hydra Beauty range by Chanel is gaining another hero product with the launch of Hydra Beauty Concentrate. The product, packed with radiance-boosting active ingredients, promises smoother, more radiant skin after just one month of use. Yes please.

W

chanel.com

Time to smile I M P R OV E YO U R S M I L E

As restrictions are being eased, Improve Your Smile dental practice in Woodford Green, which is fully COVID-safe, offers free face-to-face consultations (or virtually if that’s still your preference) to patients interested in dental implants, facial aesthetics, teeth straightening, teeth whitening and more. improveyoursmile.co.uk

REPOSE

The reality is, if you are out of shape, exercise is hard. Start slow, but start today. It is a fact exercising slows down the ageing process and so many chronic diseases can be reversed with a good diet and exercise. And it can start with just five minutes: a brisk walk, walking up and down stairs, dancing, gardening, cleaning. It all counts and can make a huge difference.

MANE attraction Choosing the right hair colour with Vita Krafty

CHANEL

TA K E FIVE

FOCUS

e’ve all been there: you secure an appointment with your hairdresser, excited to unveil a brand new look, only to leave feeling less than glamorous. There is more to deciding on a hair colour than just picking out a shade you like. Skin tone plays an important role, and it’s basic rule of thumb that those with a cooler skin tone should stick to a shade with cooler undertones, while those with warm skin tones will match with a colour with warm undertones.

Vita Krafty, long time hairdresser based at Head Spa salon, shares her advice on choosing the correct hair colour.

"Most people come in wanting to go blonde or refresh their blonde shade.

Platinum shades always work best on porcelain-skinned girls, whereas more gold or caramel-based blonde shades look great on those with cooler undertones, too. For those wanting a fresh new brunette shade, fortunately brown hair is a flattering option for most skin tones, while deep brown and black hair looks amazing on those with darker skin tones. For those deciding between blonde and brunette, a balayage is a great way of combining the best of both worlds."

For colour maintenance, choose the correct shampoo and conditioner for your shade. Purple shampoo works wonders for blondes, whereas products for brunette hair add shine and dimension.

HEAD SPA

headspa.uk • @vitakrafty

repose-space.com

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HARRY MAGUIRE IS A NEW AMBASSADOR

KHALIL MUSA

FULL

of ENERGY Abbi Mullan, of Loughton-based business WOW HYDRATE, on the reasons why their healthy sports drink has won over the fitness industry

By MARK KEBBLE

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ABIGAIL STOCKER-HARRIS

HEALTH & BEAUTY • INTERVIEW ABBI MULLAN

THE WOW HYDRATE BAR

KHALIL MUSA

O

ur amazing team, as well as our ambassadors, have done an incredible job of raising awareness and educating consumers on WOW HYDRATE since our early days. Today, we are clearly recognised as a leading sports drink, have grown our team, and are supported by some of the best athletes in the world.

Professional footballer Ruben LoftusCheek was the first ambassador to join us.

From there, the WOW HYDRATE family has grown significantly. Tyson Fury, Kevin De Bruyne, Harry Maguire and Manu Tuilagi are just some of the ambassadors we hydrate and work very closely with, and we are also the official hydration partners of Matchroom Boxing, MTK Global, Southampton FC and Castleford Tigers.

On the lookout for a healthy, low-calorie, fat-free and sugar-free vitamin drink to incorporate into their day-to-day diets, our founders Neil Young and Dean White were unable to find the perfect product.

After discovering this gap in the market, they got to work on developing drinks that were not only packed full of goodness, but also full of flavour. Backed by science and

supported by some of the best athletes in the world, our electrolyte and protein waters can be purchased today in the UK as well as the UAE, which is the first step towards international expansion.

From day one, we wanted to ensure that every consumer benefited from truly healthy hydration. This meant that we didn’t want any of the goodness in our drinks to be lost through degradation – that’s why we created our push-cap. All you simply need to do is remove the cap on the bottle and push down the red button to release the ingredients. Then, give the bottle a good shake, and your WOW HYDRATE is good to go. Many external factors affect the stability of vitamins, including temperature, oxygen levels, humidity, light and pH. Our push-cap protects the vitamins and keeps their levels stable.

Every bottle of WOW HYDRATE Electrolyte offers three essential electrolytes, as well as vitamins C, D and B6, while every bottle of WOW HYDRATE Protein offers 20g of collagen protein, essential BCAAs and vitamins C, D and B6. Electrolytes are essential minerals that are crucial to many key functions in the body. Often lost through sweat, they help to balance the body’s pH level and contribute to normal muscle function.

This is why we recommend drinking WOW HYDRATE Electrolyte before, during and after exercise. Collagen is a powerful protein that supports and promotes muscle growth, and aids performance of regular exercisers. Amongst other

TYSON FURY IS A FAN

WILL DOUGLAS

“We are backed by some of the world's best athletes”

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health benefits, vitamin C helps to protect cells and keep them healthy, vitamin D helps to prevent the entry and spread of diseases, and vitamin B6 is essential to ensure we do not impair immunity.

WOW CLUB is an exclusive platform for members that boasts a number of incredible benefits. When you sign up to our Gold membership online, you will receive two cases of our drinks per month, access to over 600 workouts, a free gym kit worth over £200, workout and meal plans, exclusive content from ambassadors, and tips and advice from experts. Plus, you’ll also have the opportunity to enter giveaways, which include the likes of Tyson Fury’s signed boxing gloves.

We have big goals for 2021 and are currently working on a number of exciting campaigns. Keep your eyes peeled for our grassroots initiative launching in the summer – we will be teaming up with Tesco and Harry Maguire will be helping to spread the message of healthy hydration. After signing up to the initiative, your grassroots team will not only be able to pick up WOW HYDRATE in Tesco stores for free, but you will also have the opportunity to win prizes, such as meeting him in person. wowhydrate.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • FITNESS DON'T OVERDO FROM THE OFF

G E N T L Y D O E S I T The founders of The Lewin Sports Injury Clinic, Colin and Gary Lewin, share guidance on returning to sport after some time off

A “It's advisable to not switch straight into physical activity several times a week”

fter many months of grassroots and community sports being on pause, with gyms and fitness classes all closed, we can begin to look forward to the brighter, longer days, and a welcome return to sport. For many the last year or so will have seen a substantial disruption to your daily routines, working, exercising and possibly schooling from home.

We all know the physical and mental benefits of exercise, so the return to sport on 29 March has been welcomed by so many. The Government roadmap with the easing of restrictions has remained on target, which now means that indoor gyms and classes can also return.

It can be tempting to pick up where you left off, or to try and squeeze in that bit more into your day now that the weather is improving and days are longer. However, we advise taking your time when you return to sport, approaching your new training schedule slowly and setting realistic goals.

Over the past few months, you may have only been training a few times, if at all, so it’s advisable to not switch straight into physical activity several times a week, all of a sudden.

Those spikes in load should be avoided because this is where the risk of injury increases. Start with two to three training sets a week, during which you focus on the correct technique. It’s better to accept your current (lower) level of fitness and concentrate on small steps such as:

SUMMER EVENINGS WILL ENCOURAGE MORE TO RUN

 Training two to three times a week for the first few weeks of returning to exercise G ood eating habits adapted to more regular training D rinking more water to ensure you’re hydrated F ocus on the regularity of training more than the quantity (e.g better three times for one hour than one or two times for two to two and a half hours) Y ou could also look at incorporating more subtle, but meaningful opportunities for physical activities into your normal day – for example taking the steps rather than escalators or lifts.

And if something should go wrong and you pick up a niggle or bigger problem, it's better to get seen sooner rather than later so that you can adjust your levels of activity, strengthen and get back to the sport you love sooner.

THE LEWIN SPORTS I N J U RY C L I N I C

GARY AND COLIN LEWIN

Call 020 8070 7777 or email info@lewinclinic.co.uk – you can find out more information about the clinic by visiting lewinclinic.co.uk

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FOOD & DRINK

SOMETHING BEEFY THE DREAM FACTORY COOKBOOK

The team from Essex-based charity The Dream Factory has launched an amazing ECookBook with 46 mouth-watering recipes, featuring 19 celebrities. Expect to see recipes from Harry Redknapp, Ronnie O’Sullivan, and a tasty rib of beef from the Guvnor himself, Ray Winstone. Turn over the page to see more.

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WHAT TO DRINK

GRAPE news Wine recommendations for the month

TASTING NOTES

West Essex's food news and most exciting openings this month B y L AY L A T U R N E R

By IL VINO

Ferrari Maximum Blanc de Blancs NV  £24 This elegant sparkling white has a gentle, yet persistent bouquet, with notes of ripe fruit. It displays notable personality, with the intense fruity notes that are typical of Chardonnay accompanied by appealing nuances of vanilla and yeast that linger on the palate.

Nyetimber Blanc de Blancs 2013  £49 Lovely pale gold in colour with a fine bead, this Blanc de Blancs has a richer, fuller style and is the essence of pure Chardonnay. The aromas and flavours are in perfect harmony, and a long and complex finish makes this a wine to be savoured.

Bruno Paillard Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru NV  £72 Originally a Champagne broker, Bruno Paillard started his own Maison in Reims back in 1981 – the first new Champagne House in more than a century. This Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs is fresh and bright on the nose with green apple, citrus and white flower aromas.

IL VINO Il Vino is the premier independent wine merchant in West Essex, offering a selection of outstanding wines, champagnes and cognacs and cigars from around the world.

Il Vino will also soon be offering customers private tasting events at the shop in Queens Road, Buckhurst Hill.

Feel The Love LOV E B R OW N I E S

Love Brownies, a multi award-winning bakery, is to open a beautiful café and brownie shop in the heart of Loughton, creating not only a new hive of activity on the high street, but also a number of jobs for the area. Established in 2009, Love Brownies is known for its decadent brownies and the Loughton store will be the 12th to open in its rather tasty network. lovebrownies.co.uk

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FOOD & DRINK• NOTES

BRUNCH DATE The booziest brunches to enjoy this month

D E VO N S H I R E T E R R AC E

Mixing it up THE BROADWAY DELI & GROCERY

If you enjoy disco balls and smoke machines , then boogie on down to Devonshire Terrace to enjoy their Disco Brunch. Every saturday from the 29th of May, guests can enjoy bottomless cocktails alongside a brunch dish of your choice.

Devonshire Square, EC2

The Broadway Deli & Grocery in Woodford Green is a real foodie haven. With more than 2,500 handpicked food and drink products, often from small producers, organic and natural and a selection of over 250 unique wines from Italy, France, Greece, Portugal, South Africa and many more places, there is something for everyone and every occasion. deligrocery.co.uk

D R EAM DISHES THE DREAM FACTORY

Tuck into 46 recipes, including 19 from a host of celebrities, in this ECookBook which is hoped will raise much needed funds for The Dream Factory.

The charity grants wishes and dreams to children, young people and adults between 3-25 years, who suffer from life-threatening, life-limiting conditions or severe disabilities. yourdreamfactory.org/cookbook

T H E A N T H O LO G I ST Sometimes, you just need to have a sing. Lift your spirits by paying a visit to Motown Brunch, the latest offering

by The Anthologist. Sing along to classics by Beyonce and Aretha Franklin whilst enjoying dishes including pancake stacks, eggs royale and braised short ribs with polenta masks. Happy weekend.

58 Gresham Street, EC2

SAUCEY

CHOICE

The real deal

DIPHOP

8 ROCKS DELI & WINE

Whether you call them bagels or beigels, 8 Rocks Deli & Wine on Loughton High Road serve up the very best.

Supplied daily from Shalom Bakery on Gants Hill, they can fill them with anything you want, including proper salt beef from Sussex-based Dedham Vale and smoked salmon from the renowned curers, North London's Goldstein family. Team with a crisp glass of English white wine or a light bodied Riesling for the perfect lunch.

8rocks.co.uk

T H E F O L LY West End Drag Brunch by The Folly is set to be an experience like no other.

Featuring drag queens from top West End shows such as Kinky Boots, it’s a fun filled day of entertainment.

Guests can enjoy 90 minutes of a bottomless cocktail of their choice alongside a range of grazing plates.

41 Gracechurch Street, EC3

DipHop is a brand new sauce company offering a host of different flavours to add a little kick to your food.

All their sauces are made in small batches to guarantee great taste, and the unique flavours they offer really do make them stand out from all the competition. dip-hop.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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High SOCIETY When it came to deciding on a venue for the first ever Absolutely West Essex cover location, there was only one place we had in mind…

By MARK KEBBLE

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FOOD & DRINK • COVER STORY

T

he first time I encountered the King’s Oak in High Beach, it was like something out of a movie. It was a family trip out in Epping Forest one summer day a few years ago and it was sweltering, so the idea of having a lengthy walk without water wasn’t the brightest one we ever had. Then, suddenly, the King’s Oak came into view, almost like a mirage. It appeared to have everything: that warming cosy pub feel, space for the younger members of the group to have fun, and – the piece de la resistance – an outdoor pool.

“It’s a magnificent original 1930s Lido with working fountain,” says the King’s Oak events manager, Paula Silkman, when I recount the story to her. “The private walled pool gardens, with the 100ft swimming pool, are designed to transport you to a world of glamour mixed with natural beauty and to relieve the stress of daily life in an oasis of calm.”

Such a heady list neatly sums up the King’s Oak, which was built in 1887 and

“It is designed to transport you to a world of glamour mixed with natural beauty, to relieve the stress of daily life” houses many of its original features and architecture today. The many different facets come together in perfect harmony, and with so much on offer it’s little surprise that it is a very in demand party venue – which meant the impact of a pandemic was particularly devastating. “In 2020 we had over 100 weddings booked and we managed to host only four of them,” Silkman sadly recounts. “Our Events Team were answering the phone daily to desperate brides and grooms who were in tears, trying to help with rescheduling their special day.”

With, at the time of writing, hospitality opening up once again, it feels like the King’s Oak is determined to bounce back with a bang. First up is their gastropub A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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FOOD & DRINK • COVER STORY

“We are hopeful that this year will bring love, laughter, fun and joy back to us all”

offering, which has already won many locals over thanks to their fabulous Dining Pod Experience that has done a great job of keeping us out of the cold, following COVID guidelines and still being able to take in the natural beauty around us.

The food is good, old fashioned pub grub, with the usual suspects of steaks, burgers, fish and chips, homemade pies, pastas, curries, and vegan and vegetarian options filling the menu. They are not afraid, also, to throw in the odd surprise here and there.

“Our slow roast lamb and fired halloumi flatbreads are a favourite,” Silkman smiles, “and they go well with our summer salad of beetroot, cherry tomato, feta and mint.”

While we can happily tuck into their great food again, soon the King’s Oak’s ever popular events will start up again. “The pool and pool gardens will be open to the public from 24 May from midday to 6pm, weather permitting,” Silkman explains. “We see it as a luxury day out with poolside loungers and waitress service around the pool. Also this summer, we have our wonderful Beach Club Cabanas that can be hired for dining in our pool gardens. At weekends we have a special

Poolside Package for six guests at £550, which includes Cabana hire from midday6pm, poolside loungers, a bottle of prosecco, bucket of beers or jug of Pimm’s, and hot and cold grazing platters – the perfect setting for a birthday, anniversary, hen and stag parties or any get together with family and friends.” Who needs overseas travel?

It’s pretty remarkable given the amount of entertainment on offer that children are not forgotten about. “We are most definitely a family pub,” Silkman insists, “and we also welcome dogs in our garden. We have a children’s play area and a bouncy castle on good weather weekends. With our Cheeky Monkey menu offering all kids’ favourites at £6.95 we aim to satisfy all tastes.”

So all bases are very much covered as we approach the summer in West Essex.

It’s been difficult to see many of our local hospitality venues suffer so much over the past year, but the likes of the King’s Oak is not dwelling too much on the past.

“After a devastating year for us all, and for the hospitality industry in particular, we cannot wait to open our doors and start celebrating with our events again,” Silkman says. “We are hopeful that this year will bring love, laughter, fun and joy back to us all here at the King's Oak and allow everyone to find peace after the upheaval of 2020.” Here’s to a Hollywood movie happy ending happening in West Essex.

K I N G’ S OA K Paul's Nursery Road, High Beach, Essex IG10 4AE 020 8508 5000 kingsoakhotel.com

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Saint Nicholas School

Open Day Saturday 9th October • Independent Co-Ed Day School in Old Harlow for pupils aged 21 2 to 16 • Academic excellence combined with great pastoral care • Small class sizes

SAINT NICHOLAS

Nurture. Strive. Achieve.

01279 429910 • www.saintnicholasschool.net St Nicholas School ST NICH.indd 1 - Absolutely West Essex A4 Ad_Final.indd 1

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F A M I L Y

PARTY PIECES J OJ O M A M A N B E B E

JoJo Maman Bébé - who have a store in the heart of Epping - have released a brand new collection of adorable summer baby outfits, just in time for lockdown babies to finally meet friends and family. We can't get enough of the butterfly embroidery. jojomamanbebe.co.uk

Hayley Smith 50 • Talking Head 57 • Future Star 61 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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FAMILY • COLUMN ENCOURAGE CREATIVITY IN YOUR CHILD

( N E A R LY )

MARRIED with children Hayley Smith, a Buckhurst Hillbased mother of three and founder of Campioni Soccer Academy, starts her family life column with big news

“I am planning an intimate wedding in just four weeks – and it's lovely to involve the children”

F

irst and foremost, I am delighted to have been invited to contribute to Absolutely West Essex. I have always lived in Essex and simply wouldn’t want to live anywhere else.

At this stage of my life, my priority is raising well mannered, balanced children – in Jordan Peterson’s 12 Rules of Life book, Rule 5 is entitled “Do Not Let Your Children Do Anything That Makes You Dislike Them.” The ultimate point of this chapter is that we, as parents, have a responsibility to teach our child the rules of society, and helping your children become well-liked, functioning members of society is a key part of success; if we don’t, society will, in a much meaner way!

This book is a must read for anyone (not just parents) at any stage of their life

RAISING ENTREPRENEURIAL KIDS

For as long as I can remember, I’ve had an entrepreneurial spirit inside me. I remember sitting in my room making a list of ways I could make money on my own.

Whatever job I undertake, I work tirelessly (in a slightly maverick style) to do the best I can, whether as an employee, freelancer or running my own business, I apply the same amount of passion and care. I explain and involve my children with projects in the hope that they too will grow up to have a good understanding of business, a high work ethic and most importantly to recognise and seek opportunity.

Without being a pushy parent, I think it is important to give them a solid foundation and confidence to do anything they put

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HAYLEY SMITH

their mind to. When my middle daughter asked to set up an Instagram page @savetheplanetwithjosie – to highlight and to educate her friends on what is happening to our planet – I couldn’t have been prouder.

GETTING MARRIED (AFTER HAVING CHILDREN)

For many people having a child is the ultimate commitment to a partner. A life you have created together and are responsible for raising. It’s a commitment many people make without getting married. Even though we are “as good as married” in everyone’s eyes, as our children are growing up – deep down we must be traditionalists – we simply think it is important for them to have parents that are married… So, as I write this, in true Hayley “impulsive fashion”, I am planning an intimate wedding in just four weeks – and it’s lovely being able to involve the children. campioni.co

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Care in your home, just as you like it.

You love your home and you feel safe there. Needing additional care and support shouldn’t change that.

With our well-trusted care service, you can remain at home surrounded by loved ones and beloved pets and still enjoy your home, garden and community.

You may be in a situation where you need an extra pair of hands to help with daily chores, or you may have complex needs that require more dedicated care. We build our care packages around you and your individual needs which means that you and your family can rest assured you’ll receive care and support exactly as you need. Our care ranges from a 30-minute daily visit through to full Live-in care.

More detailed information on live-in care can be found at: bluebirdcare.co.uk/live-in-care

Call our friendly team today to see how we can tailor a care package for you.

Bluebird Care Epping and Harlow 01279 976360 Bluebird Care Redbridge 020 8989 8444 Bluebird Care Mid Essex 01245 263962

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Family

N OT ES The latest education news and must-haves for your little ones

LITTLE

Conversation

A

t the start of the next academic year, Braeside School in Buckhurst Hill will be celebrating a very exciting new development. Currently an all girls’ school for pupils from 2½ to 16, from September 2021 the school will be extending its provision to boys as part of a phased plan over several years. Absolutely West Essex speaks to Chloe Moon, Braeside’s headmistress, about the many benefits of this change and the positive impact it will have on the school as a whole.

Q Why has the school decided to accept boys from September 2021?

A In this modern era, we believe that a co-educational environment is in the best interests of the children and will benefit their development as we move forward into the 21st century.

It also means that whole families will be able to become a part of the Braeside experience and benefit from our educational journey.

Q What are the benefits of extending Braeside provision to boys?

A At this young age, socialising with other children is a vital part of the learning and development process.

There are so many additional learning opportunities. Parents with children of both genders will also benefit from choosing one school that accommodates both boys and girls.

Q Will this change the school’s aims, ethos and values?

A Not at all! On the contrary, this actually reflects Braeside’s longterm historical ethos and values of community, compassion and empathy.

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very Tuesday, Wednesday or Sunday, Orion Harriers offer a free taster session to show what they can offer if you train with them. For young people aged eight and over, they offer track & field training and cross country, and are Club Mark accredited and have qualified DBS coaches.

If you are interested in heading down, email orionharriersjuniors@outlook.com or visit orionharriers.com

SKY’S THE LIMIT On Sunday 6 June, 18-year-old Davis Ince from Langdon Hills will be flying high to help grant the dreams of children/young adults aged 3 to 25 years with life limiting/threatening conditions or severe disabilities by doing an exhilarating Charity Skymax Wing Walk for The Dream Factory. Davis, a former St Clere’s School pupil, is currently completing his A-levels at Seevic College in Benfleet and will be starting Commercial Pilot Training at a college in Gloucester in September. justgiving.com/fundraising/davis-incewingwalk

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FAMILY • NEWS

3 for the YOU NG O N E S

MAI

Educated for life

S

t Aubyn’s facilities are first class and add value to the overall educational experience as emphasis is placed on the development of the whole child and not just the examination candidate. Nursery pupils enjoy a purposebuilt facility with state-of-the-art equipment and furniture to complement the excellent setting. Throughout the school, academic attainment is impressive. This year, out

MAI’s first stunning collection features unique endangered animal designs showcasing the Amur leopard, Asian elephants, and the bumblebee. The slow-fashion, highquality pieces are for ages 0-8. mai-clothing.com

of a total of 55 pupils taking entry tests to independent schools, 49 pupils received offers at 11+. St Aubyn’s is an independent, coeducational school for 530 children aged from 3 to 13, situated in eight acres of grounds in the beautiful surroundings of Woodford Green and Epping Forest.

St Aubyn’s School’s next Open Morning will take place on Thursday 24 June – see more at staubyns.com

T H I S I S YO U R STO RY Two years in the making, This is Your Story is for parents that want something a little bit cooler than the norm, and thanks to the ring binder design, the book can be customised to suit all families. tribeandstory.co.uk

L AY I N G T H E F O U N DAT I O N S Haslers Foundation are pleased to have donated a SATS monitor to Haven House Children's Hospice. SATS monitors are vital in the Hospice's work as they allow nurses to rapidly and effectively identify when a child is unwell, often before they are showing signs of distress. To date, Haslers’ charity has donated more than £180,000 for local community groups and causes.

E V E RY P E N N Y C O U N T S Woodford Green Prep is delighted to have raised £1,500 (and counting) for the NSPCC, by getting involved in Number Day. Children enjoyed wearing non-uniform with a numbers theme and took part in a fun range of sponsored maths activities. As part of their school assembly programme, the children watched a video informing them about the work of the NSPCC. wgprep.co.uk

TINZI’S Bordering Epping Forest, a new baby essentials boutique, Tinzi’s, offers everyday essentials used by parents to care for little ones, such as bibs, feeding towels and blankets, all hand made in their North Chingford studio. tinzis.co.uk

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happily feliciter

St. Aubyn’s School Open Morning Thursday, 24 June from 10 am – 12 pm Headmaster’s introduction at 10:15am

Full tour of the School 3+ 7+ 11+

co-educational independent ages 3-13 central line Woodford

For further information please contact the Admissions Registrar registrar@staubyns.com 020 8504 1577 Bunces Lane Woodford Green Essex IG8 9DU www.staubyns.com Registered Charity No: 270143

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FAMILY • EDUCATION

“Further restrictions on sport have affected some of the key experiences that pupils have”

LIFE CHANGER The headmaster of Bancroft’s, Simon Marshall, reflects on the long term impact of COVID-19

Q Tell us about Bancroft’s…

A Bancroft’s has a fascinating history – founded in 1737 on the Mile End Road as a result of the legacy of Francis Bancroft, a liveryman of the Drapers’ Company, we were a school that welcomed both fee-paying pupils and educated a proportion free of charge – something that still remains the case. We moved in the late 1880s to our current site in Woodford Wells, surrounded by Epping Forest, but close to what is now the Central Line extension to Epping. We retain close links with the Drapers’ Company and with fellow Drapers’ schools, and we draw pupils from urban, suburban and rural areas – we are right on the exciting northeastern edge of London and, as such, are an extremely diverse community.

Q How do you look back on the past year?

A It’s been an intense last 15 months and it would be good to imagine that school life may at last be returning to normal. It’s important to recognise that many in our community have been significantly affected by events during this time: some have lost family members and close friends, some their jobs or businesses, and few will be unchanged from recent experiences. I think it may be some time before we fully understand the lasting impacts of the pandemic (even if, as we currently assume, normal life does indeed resume in the second half of 2021).

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FAMILY • EDUCATION

“It would be a shame to lose this opportunity to re-evaluate our national obsession with testing at all ages” Q What would you say you have learnt during this period?

A None of us imagined back in mid-March 2020 that we’d be able to run a school online or that our pupils and staff could be so resilient and adaptable (and I should add in parents too – they have had to become engaged with day-to-day learning to an extent that few ever envisaged). For us, we were fortunate in the fact that Microsoft Teams seemed to work for our teachers and pupils really well (after a somewhat steep initial learning curve), and we prioritised pastoral catch-ups with tutors proactively phoning home.

Much as “lost learning” has become a fashionable term, it is a more complex matter than the term implies. Subjects dependent upon human, social interaction – like languages – have suffered in ways that perhaps the sciences haven’t and the nature of “bubbles”, as well as the further restrictions on music, drama, and sport, has dramatically affected some of the key experiences that pupils would normally have.

Some of the best learning in schools is peer-to-peer and between different

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year-groups, where younger pupils can work closely with and become inspired by the examples of older pupils, these have been severely limited over the past 15 months. It is these that will take time to rebuild when the “bubbles” finally burst.

Q What are you looking forward to over the coming months?

A Even if it still seems peremptory to say it, we are so looking forward to more normal conditions being sustained, I hope, for an entire school year: to mixing between year-groups, to welcoming parents back onto the school site, to the orchestras and bands rehearsing together, to sports’ fixtures and DofE expeditions and so on. But as well as this, I really want our pupils to have a whole year’s uninterrupted study, to have the chance to get back into normal rhythms of learning.

Whether we see a more sensible approach to public examinations will remain to be seen; will we perhaps, once this year’s results are finalised, see more foresight and planning from the Department for Education?

I also think it would be a shame to

lose this opportunity to re-think national assessment at 16 and to reevaluate our national obsession with testing at all ages. We have seen how much children have missed learning directly from human interaction and how dependent we still are on the vital relationships that are built in the classroom; it would be nice to prioritise exactly this kind of interactive and dynamic learning from now on and not simply to return to teaching pupils solely to pass sets of exams.

SIMON MARSHALL is headmaster at Bancroft’s School 611-627 High Road, Woodford, Woodford Green IG8 0RF 020 8505 4821, bancrofts.org

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Nurture

Curiosity

Creativity

Excellence

Independent Co-educational Day School For 3 - 11 Years

Virtual Open Event Thursday 17th June 2021 9.30-10.30am Register interest via - www.wgprep.co.uk

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Tel: 0208 504 5045 Email: admissions@wgprep.co.uk www.wgprep.co.uk

24/05/2021 14:29

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FAMILY • TALENT

“When I'm performing I don't have to think about anything else”

ELYSIA LEADS THE WAY (IN THE BLUE NECK SCARF)

Stage is SET One of the young stars from Stagecoach Chingford writes about returning to the performing arts post-lockdown

I

B y E LY S I A N E O P H Y T O U

t has been a very exhausting few weeks of GCSE assessments and revision so I’m very glad that they are finished now!

Doing school from home was very hard to begin with because the best part of it is seeing my friends and socialising, and that was obviously not possible in lockdown. But once I got used to learning from home it wasn’t too bad.

I have always loved performing and even from a very young age I loved going to see shows. Since I was very small I would sing and dance everywhere and anywhere that I could, and now that I have had some training and learnt more about performing I love it even more.

I think performing is an escape from everyday life. When I’m performing I don’t have to think about anything else and am fully concentrated on giving the best

performance that I can. It’s a way to become another character while still being true to yourself and it’s always exciting and fun.

When we were in lockdown I was doing Stagecoach from home on Zoom. But we are now back in class, in person. Although it is not the same – for example, we have to dance in boxes taped out on the floor so we can’t stage our dances in the same way – it is still great to be back with my friends and learning more about performing arts. We haven’t been able to do shows as there are still restrictions on theatres and our performance of Beetlejuice was cancelled last year, but hopefully it won’t be too long until we can be back on stage again.

I have been involved in Stagecoach since I was seven, so for about nine years. Lots of my friends have also been there for a very long time, so

we have kind of grown up together and watched each other improve and develop as performers. During my time at Stagecoach I have grown in confidence and learnt a lot about musical theatre and also improved as a performer.

My favourite things to do at Stagecoach are shows. The rehearsal process leading up to the shows is also so much fun, as it’s so exciting to see how the performance develops and becomes ready for the stage. In November 2019 we performed at the Shaftesbury Theatre in the West End – our showcase had numbers in from Waitress, Hamilton and Memphis.

It was an amazing experience to perform on a stage that was so big, it really made me sure that performing is what I want to do as a career.

I have a place at a Performing Arts college, starting in September, then hopefully I’ll go to drama school in a few years’ time. I would also be interested in teaching musical theatre in the future because I would love to share the skills and knowledge that I will hopefully learn throughout my career with others. stagecoach.co.uk

STAGECOACH HOPE TO BE STAGING SHOWS AGAIN SOON

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W H AT ’ S I N S TO R E KITCHEN STORAGE

It’s the hub of the home, which invariably means it is stuffed full of too many accessories.

However, today there are unique ways to store away all those pots and pans without ruining the kitchen’s aesthetic. p70

inside this section: T H E L AT E S T D E S I G N N E W S p 6 5 YA R DA R T ’ S G A R D E N A R T Y p 6 6 EXPERIENCE FLOWER POWER p76 WHY WE’RE GREEN WITH ENVY p78

BED REST

How to sleep well – advice from Carpe Diem Beds I N A S S O C I AT I O N W I T H

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est.1975

Masterclass Kitchens come with all of your favourite design features built in

Brand New Kitchen Showroom Opening in Loughton Soon Call for details: 020 8418 9192

masterclasskitchens.co.uk

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H O M E | NEWS Compiled by

PENDLE HARTE

I N T H E N E WS U P DAT E S F R O M T H E I N D U S T R Y STAR BURST TO M D IXO N

NEW LIFE

Burst is a new, dynamic and threedimensional array of lighting without lots of dangling wires. Intended for larger spaces and ceiling voids, it's inspired by an interest in molecular structures and the space age with its chrome aesthetic and geometric configuration. tomdixon.net

H A R K V I N TA G E Midcentury glass, ceramics and enamelware as well as Ercol chairs, rattan stools and French posters are all part of the offering at Hark Vintage. It's a great source of unusual and one-off pieces. @hark_vintage harkvintage.etsy.com

GO CASUAL BRIDGMAN

LOCK IN

Summer is around the corner, and gardens become the first choice to relax and spend more time with loved ones.

Bridgman offers a variety of furniture styles and designs for outdoor or indoor spaces. The Casual Dining Collection has been crafted with style in mind. bridgman.co.uk

M U S TA R D M A D E New at Mustard Made is lilac, the shade of the moment, adding to the colourful collection. These metal lockers are versatile and stylish, and come in a variety of sizes and shapes. mustardmade.co.uk

PARTY PIECE BAR HAU S This is one for the dancing queens and disco kings, the ultimate home cocktail bar is the Mirrorball Icon. A mini nightclub and bar inside a gorgeous mirrorball on a classic Italian tulip base. From £4,950 barhaus.co.uk

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ARTY We meet Charlotte Clemence and Rebecca Lund, the West Essex-based founders of YardArt, to find out about their unique pieces for outdoor living

Words M A R K K E B B L E

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H O M E | INTERVIEW

“Lockdown hit and we thought that would be the end, but people's gardens became their sanctuary”

How did you two first meet?

Charlotte: Rebecca (or Bex) and I first met on the mad rush of the school run, and straight away hit it off with having similar interests and passions.

Bex: I went to Charlotte’s for coffee and saw her own amazing artwork, some of which we feature on YardArt UK, and instantly knew they were designs that needed to be seen by a wider audience.

Charlotte: When we first met, Bex at the time was involved in the family resin business, and had just started playing about with resin fluid art, which completely inspired me. I was immediately obsessed with the process and cajoled Bex into working together – to make an art form that was totally different and to express our love of alternative design.

How did this evolve into launching a business?

Charlotte: After seeing how brilliant and robust the resin was – it’s predominantly used for outdoor landscaping – we were convinced we could encase our prints so they could live permanently outdoors, exposed to the elements. The first few months, as

with any new concept, were difficult with lots of trial and error; the initial idea to encase went out of the window! However we still loved the concept and realised that expressing your art style in a format which you could take outdoors (YardArt’s panels are completely waterproof, UV resistant, windproof, fade proof and durable) was a unique idea. The development of the printing method and the perfect material was the start of our business journey.

When did you launch YardArt UK and what were your ambitions for the business?

Bex: We started to initially market and sell designs in the autumn of 2019, but the business really kicked off in spring 2020, when it was apparent early on we needed to become a formalised business – and quickly! Interest in what we were offering was gathering pace quickly.

Charlotte: Once we’d achieved the finish and quality that we were happy with, we then had to decide what we wanted to do with it. Things started moving very quickly – then lockdown hit! As with all small and fledgling businesses we thought this would

be the end of it, but actually it was only the beginning. All of a sudden people’s gardens became their sanctuary. We’ve all heard of the phrase bringing ‘the outside in’ but in our case ‘inside’ was really coming outdoors! People wanted their patios and garden spaces to look as good as their living rooms – it was fantastic timing.

Bex: We love being able to show creative flair as well as an adaptability that helps our stockists and customers directly. We would be lying if we had set out a business plan – we are just rolling with it – while trying to keep ourselves (and maintaining family life) firmly on the ground. It’s been a whirlwind 18 months, and shows no signs of letting up any time soon, which is amazing.

What was the initial response like to your work?

Bex: When people saw it in person, they loved it! But it was very hard via social media to get people’s heads around the concept – art for outdoors that was framed, impossible they said. But what they didn’t realise was the frame was a 3D illusion and incorporated as part of the print, and the art itself was only 5mm A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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Hydropool Hot Tubs | Swim Spas | Outdoor Kitchens | Buildings

“Outdoor living…

All year round.”

Al fresco cooking is becoming more and more popular every year, providing you with new, innovative and fun ways to cook outdoors with your family or to cater for some guests.

Outdoor kitchens can come with all the functionality of an indoor kitchen as we make every single kitchen bespoke

to meet your needs. Hot tubs and swim spas are an amazing way to improve your everyday lifestyle and start creating new habits. What better way to start your day than with a soak in your own hot tub!Or come home after work for a leisurely swim to keep active and healthy, all year round.

SHOWROOM OPENING HOURS:

Mon – Sat: 9am – 5pm | Sun: 10am – 4pm

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24/05/2021 10:26

H O M E | INTERVIEW

to hide in, are massive right now and so we have created our own version of these – The Oasis range – they are proving immensely popular, which is great. We’ve got lots of ideas bubbling away with regards to further seasonal ideas, but we’re learning to be patient.

“Our bespoke work can be as varied as generating a new collection or using a family photo” thick... That was just mind boggling and still is to some degree, you have to see it to believe it.

Charlotte: We have been approached by galleries, hotels and restaurants and are now even venturing in to the cruise ship market, but what we are most excited about at the moment is the launch of our forthcoming René Gruau collection and our involvement in some amazing exhibitions.

We’re proud to say that we’re exhibiting some exclusive Banksy artwork pieces in association with Brandler Galleries at the ‘Moments’ exhibition at Moyse’s Hall Museum, Bury St. Edmunds (23 May-30 September). Our Banksy limited edition panels will be available from both ourselves and the Brandler Galleries.

What inspires the creation of a new piece?

Bex: A lot of what brings a collection to the fore is led by interior trends – what people love inside they also love outside. We receive lots of feedback from our customers and right now our heritage animal range (Countess Catherine, Roaring Lord George and their friends) are proving popular, customers appreciate the surrealist element to them, we’re hoping to add to the collection soon. We also get asked to do a lot of bespoke pieces for our customers and exclusive ranges for our retailers, so the development and inspiration for collections is organic by our collaborations.

Charlotte: Foliage walls and the idea of creating a jungle in your garden, a place

How does the bespoke side of the business work?

Bex: By providing a direct one to one service – one account manager per client, customer or retailer, it means that we really get to know their requirements and produce their collections or unique piece swiftly.

Our bespoke work can be as varied as generating a whole new collection on a specific theme, to transferring a treasured family photo into a unique piece, selecting colours and framing to complement the area the panel will be mounted to. The personal ones are great fun to do and we love seeing the end result.

Do you also offer a platform to up-andcoming artists?

Bex: Yes we do, and we love bringing new artists into YardArt. We will consider anyone’s portfolio and if we love their work they’re in. Sometimes we have guest artists too; an example of this is Spencer Reinhard who will be having a guest appearance with us this summer. His art is phenomenal!

He has a wonderful back story, so watch this space. All I can say is watch American Animals, a cult film based on a true story of Reinhard and his school mates.

For more info visit yardartuk.com or follow on Instagram at yardart_uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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W H A T ' S I N S T O R E N E V E R B E F O R E H AV E W E H A D SO MUCH CHOICE WHEN IT C O M E S T O K I T C H E N S T O R AG E AND HOW IT CAN COMPLEMENT MODERN DESIGN

By MARK KEBBLE

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Strong as oak GARDEN TRADING

Taking its name from a picturesque village in Gloucestershire, the Oakridge table has been designed as a strong yet contemporary table that can be matched with an array of chairs. Instead of being square cut like traditional dining tables, the Oakridge has a waney edge, showing a natural gentle curve giving it a beautiful point of difference. Its design also sits comfortably in modern kitchens that feature an island and plenty of shelves to put that washing away neatly post-feast. gardentrading.co.uk

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H O M E | KITCHENS

Expect the unexpected K I T C H E N & M A K E O V E R C O M PA N Y

Conceal your bar away in a kitchen cupboard and wow your friends by unveiling your pride and joy with The Connery. Showcase beautiful glassware in glass cupboards or glass racks for an eye pleasing design. enhancing the overall look. The Connery works perfectly if you’re opting for open plan living. masterclasskitchens.co.uk

Hide and seek W R EN K ITC H EN S

When it comes to kitchen storage, you don't want guests to be able to see your pots and pans piled high on top of each other. Subtle storage is the way forward, as shown in this pull-out tower storage. It features here in Wren Kitchens' industrial Autograph range in a textured Flamed Oak colour. Even the bottles of ketchup look fetching, and you'll never have to rummage around for them at the back of a dusty cupboard. wrenkitchens.co.uk

Light the way B R AY E R D E S I G N

You know how it is. The clock ticks past midnight and you are peckish. Rather than blaze a light trail throughout your darkened home, what you need is a cabinet that illuminates as you open it.

This pantry cabinet for Felsted kitchen design boasts traditional shaker style doors in 'Strong White' by Farrow & Ball and a contemporary walnut interior with handleless drawers, spice rack storage – and the all important automatic LED lighting. Enjoy your midnight feast. brayerdesign.co.uk

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B e d : S a n d ö | Fa b r i c : D e s i g n e r s G u i l d Z a r a g o z a E g g s h e l l | C a r p e t : L i g h t B e i g e | B e d l i n e n : St o r m P e b b l e & D r i f t w o o d | H e a d b o a r d P i l l o w s : D e s i g n e r s G u i l d Z a r a g o z a E g g s h e l l | B e d s i d e Ta b l e : H o l m e B l a c k 15 WIGMORE ST R EET | LO ND O N W 1U 1P E +4 4 (0) 2 0 39 8 2 3 25 2 | m a r y le bo n e @ c a r pediem beds.co.u k c a r p e d i e m b e d s o f s w e d e n | # m y u n w i n d | w w w.c a r pedie m beds.co.u k

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H O M E | KITCHENS

Fit for a family B R AY E R D E S I G N

Keep things simple. This contemporary design features minimalist kitchen cabinets in a sleek, handleless design painted in Zoffany Double Silver matt lacquer. The kitchen island features an elevated island breakfast bar with bespoke made stools, perfect for tucking away a hearty breakfast with the family.

A breakfast station/pantry cabinet with a charcoal oak interior houses small appliances such as the microwave, kettle and coffee machine. All in all, a design fit for 21st century family living. brayerdesign.co.uk

Country living K I T C H E N & M A K E O V E R C O M PA N Y

This pantry is a beloved feature within the kitchen that takes us all back in time, therefore it will come as no surprise that The Lansbury has become such an iconic storage feature. This corner pantry allows you to keep your food and cookware in one place and within easy reach. What's more, it is available in 11 cabinet colour options to give you even more choice. masterclasskitchens.co.uk

Timeless appeal K ITC H EN M A K ER S

Thanks to door styling with quarter round beading, concealed hinges and a delicate classicality, the Somerton collection is elegant and considered, yet can be soon super-sized into a more stylised look, whether across a vintage basement, apartment galley or neobarn setting. Further enhance your open shelving with painted colour. A gentle tonal notch up against the base Fjord Green elevates daily storage into a feature piece delivering on both function and display terms. burbidgekitchenmakers.co.uk

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D E S I G N E D for S L E E P Sweden’s cult sleep brand Carpe Diem Beds is gaining popularity in the UK. Absolutely discovers why

C

Words P E A R L B OY D

arpe Diem Beds is a household name in Sweden, associated with the ultimate in sleep comfort.

This is a bra nd that has patented a mattress designed by a chiropractor together with a team of medical experts with the aim of offering a lifetime of quality sleep. Relatively new to the UK, Carpe Diem Beds opened a showroom on Wigmore Street last year, where visitors can experience the company’s ethos first hand.

The store is dedicated to optimising the bedroom environment to create an oasis of calm. And while choosing the perfect mattress for you is at the heart of the experience, there’s a strong focus on

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bedroom design and streamlining, so that the bed you choose can be housed in an environment that’s conducive to optimum sleep health.

For manager Rui Franca, guiding clients through the process involves paying close attention to their needs. The showroom is a very calming place and people are encouraged to take their time. “We like people to come and spend an hour or two trying the beds. We can provide sleep masks, lower the lights and let people rest,” he says.

For the UK market, Carpe Diem Beds has introduced 36 different Designers Guild fabrics for beds and headboards that can be colour matched with carpets, cushions and curtains. Franca explains: “In selecting the fabrics we look at colours that are neutral and subtle. Bright colours are energising

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H O M E | PROMOTION

1 K E E P TO N E S N E U T R A L Bright colours are not conducive to relaxation – neutral shades of beige and grey create a sense of calm that will aid sleep.

and we need to be relaxed in a bedroom, so there are no oranges or shiny finishes. It’s all about neutral tones, which are adopted in Scandinavian design to create a sense of calm in the mind.” Fabrics are beiges and greys with some darker tones and maybe some light pinks at the more colourful end of the neutral palette. “In store we have access to side tables, carpets and throw

Neutral tones create a sense of calm in the mind

cushions. We have slick metal side table and lamps too, with finishes in chrome and marble, all in calming soothing tones.”

The look is luxurious but minimalist and the neutral tones are designed to be mixed and matched alongside lifestyle products such as kimonos, slippers, sleep masks and scented candles. The latest addition to the range is a matching dog bed, made to the same exacting standards as the regular beds, which achieved immediate cult status on its launch in Sweden.

There’s a widespread misconception that a firm mattress is better for you, says Rui. “But we believe that you should sleep in the bed, not on the bed, and our contour pocket system is meant to contour your body so that you feel you’re sleeping on a cloud.”

Carpe Diem Beds was founded 25 years ago by chiropractor Börje Thuleskär in partnership with the Spinal Unit at Sahlgrenska University Hospital in Sweden. The company’s patented Contour Pocket System has a unique cushioning ability, which gently yields and supports at the same time, instantly moulding to your body’s contours and changing with your every movement. Now the brand is associated with high quality Scandinavian design and innovation. A Carpe Diem bed is a long-term investment in sleep, with a superking model priced between £4,500 and £30,000. If that sounds expensive, Franca says: “We spend a third of our lives asleep and it’s funny that we’re inclined to spend more on our cars than on our beds.”

Funny indeed.

2 C L I M AT E C O N T R O L The room shouldn’t be very warm or very cold. 18-20 degrees maximum is a good temperature. Bedrooms should be well insulated and the heating should be off.

3 NO DEVICES! Checking your phone makes your brain active. It’s better to read a book. The ideal sleep experience comes with mental relaxation.

THE WIGMORE STREET STORE

15 Wigmore Street, W1 020 3982 3252 carpediembeds.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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Flower P OWER

The Buckhurst Hill-based founder of a creative floral design company picks out five projects that really say it with flowers Words R I C K Y PAU L

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Wedded bliss

During the pandemic we have been asked to create stunning intimate table flowers designs. Here, we were asked to design this table setting for a small intimate wedding ceremony at Somerley Estate. The clients love the soft paste flowers, but loved the idea of adding foliage to keep the design soft and romantic, and we designed the flowers to cascade from the beautiful French table with an added candle chandelier to glow softly as the day light fades away.

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H O M E | GARDENS

Set for summer In this floral arch we incorporated huge butterflies, carousel horses with beautiful ostrich feathers and soft paste tones faux flowers, perfect for a hot summer day – and, of course, the faux flowers don’t wilt in the sunshine. The brief was to create the wow factor and keeping the design fun for a girl’s 13th birthday party.

All the fun of the fair

Our brief for this design was to create a fun summer fete vibe for a children’s garden party with lots of balloons. We gave this event a fairground feel with our bespoke carousel horses and floral sea lion. Our carousel horses can be painted to match your event and can be sat on for photos creating a perfect Instagram moment.

“We gave the event a fairground feel with a floral sea lion”

Where the magic happens Join the circus

We were asked to create a fabulous entrance for a circus-themed garden party at this beautiful Essex home.

The garden was filled with circus themed entertainment, jugglers, acrobats and party games, so we designed this beautiful fresh and faux flower arch with added balloons to match the circus theme. Our arches are all bespoke and can be designed to fit perfectly around the entrance to your event.

When designing a fabulous flower wall for a little girl’s summer pool party, we knew the birthday girl loved pink and bright colours and unicorns. So we bespoke painted and designed one of our carousel horses and added a glitter horn to make her a fabulous sit on unicorn, perfect for those Instagram moments, and designed this to match our happy birthday flower wall that is available to hire. It added some fun designs to the pool party and made one little girl’s birthday a very happy one.

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H O M E | TREND

MADE Asuna Wide Sideboard, £399 made.com

DAALS Clarence velvet green sofa, £309.99 daals.co.uk

EARTHBORN Faerie paint 2.5 litres, £46 earthbornpaints.co.uk

OMG KITTY

HOT POTTERY Salad bowl, £35 libertylondon.com

GREEN LIGHT

Art Print Pink Green, £10 omgkittyclub.com

This summer's hottest shade

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

NICHOLAS ENGERT Cage Cordless Floor Light Green, £566 nicholasengert.co.uk

WOODCHIP & MAGNOLIA X FEARNE COTTON Pondering Peonies Duck Egg Wallpaper, £99 woodchipandmagnolia.co.uk

ABODE LIVING Fish Fish medium green glass £8.50 abodeliving.co.uk

GLOW LIGHTING

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Bertie Cluster Coloured Glass Pendant Light, £550 glowlighting.co.uk

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H O M E | GARDENS

KERB APPEAL

Lechuza shares five tips for successful container gardening Words L E C H U Z A .C O. U K

Think about drainage

This is a key first step because the right amount of drainage can be a matter of life and death for your plants. Waterlogged soil causes a plant’s roots to rot and is likely to kill it. Consider drainage when purchasing the pots you plan to use. The minimum size for a drainage hole is half an inch in diameter for small or medium-sized pots, while larger pots will need holes at least an inch in diameter.

If you’re not keen on watering, then grow succulents

Choose the right soil

Fill your containers with a high-quality potting soil. Don’t use soil directly from your garden because, unlike potting mix, which includes ingredients like perlite and vermiculite to improve aeration and keep soil loose and well-draining, earth from your garden is likely to harden and compact when dry.

Look at your light

Different plant varieties have varying needs and likes when it comes to light so, when selecting your plants, take note of the care tags and make sure you know whether they grow best in sun or shade. You want to avoid mixing sun- and shade-loving plants in the same pot if you are creating an arrange-

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ment. There are also plenty of houseplants that can tolerate low light if you are worried your home may be too dark for anything to thrive. It is worth saving these care tags to remind yourself of feeding and watering requirements.

Feed your plants

Although the perfect consistency for container planting, many potting mixes don’t always contain enough nutrients for your plant, so be sure to fertilise regularly. You can mix a slow-release fertiliser into your soil when you pot up and then regularly treat plants to a liquid plant food added into your watering can when you water. To make your job even easier, some brands offer pre-mixed feed, designed specifically for container gardening, which you can just pour into pots straight from the bottle.

Choose plants that suit your lifestyle

To have the most fun and chance of success, assess how you live before you take the plunge. There will be a type of container garden that suits your lifestyle. For example, if you’re not keen on watering, then grow succulents and other drought-resistant plants. If you want something that will last and return to bloom again next year, choose to plant perennials and be sure to deadhead or chop back when necessary to encourage further growth and keep them blooming. Alternatively, if you like to chop and change with the seasons, plant annual flowers and swap out for new ones, as and when you need to. Just do a little research and find out what works for you.

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PROPERTY

STRADBROKE DRIVE IG7

£5.25m

his magnificent residence of grand proportions extends to about 11,000 square feet. The accommodation is cleverly arranged over four floors and from the grand reception hall with a lift serving three floors and sweeping staircase to the stylish leisure complex this superb property simply exudes style and quality. State of the art facilities can also be found throughout.

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SAVILLS LOUGHTON 020 8498 6601 savills.co.uk

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Sales, Lettings, Land & New Homes

Blackhorse Road, Walthamstow E17 Guide Price £800,000 – £825,000 4 Bedrooms | 1 Reception | 2 Bathrooms A beautifully presented, mid terraced four bedroom Victorian family home set in bustling Walthamstow.

Endlebury Road, Chingford E4 £850,000 5 Bedrooms | 3 Receptions | 2 Bathrooms Substantial, five bedroom semi detached family home. In exceptional condition and with a rear garden in excess of 100 ft. Popular North Chingford location with excellent access to ocal parks, Forest, school, shopping facilities and TFL 5 transport.

Would you like to get One Year’s rent paid in advance?

Even when your tenant pays monthly.

R E N T I N A DVA N C E

Are you a Landlord?

Use our simple ONLINE CALCULATOR to find out the lump sum you could be entitled to...

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butlerandstag.uk | 01992 667 666 24/05/2021 09:51

London & Home Counties Land & New Homes

West Essex Sales & Lettings

Chingford Sales & Lettings

London Sales & Lettings

020 4542 2999 land@butlerandstag.com

01992 667 666 westessex@butlerandstag.com

020 8524 3333 chingford@butlerandstag.com

020 8102 1236 london@butlerandstag.com

butlerandstag.uk

Mill Lane, Chingford E4 Guide Price £1,500,000 – £1,600,000 4 Bedrooms | 3 Receptions | 2 Bathrooms A substantial, four bedroom detached Chalet Bungalow home set in approximately 0.7 acres and at the foot of a quiet turning just outside Sewardstonebury, Chingford, London E4.

Woodman Lane, Sewardstonebury E4 £12,500 pcm 6 Bedrooms | 3 Receptions | 6 Bathrooms Arguably one of the finest properties available in Sewardstonebury, North Chingford is this stunning, detached character residence.

Tony Game

Milo O’Neill

Chris Marsh

Amanda Schiavi

Bradley Gale

Katy Morton

Head Of West Essex Sales

Chingford Manager

Assistant Manager

Company Sales Progressor

Senior Property Consultant

Office Co-ordinator & Property Business Development Consultant

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Daniel Micallef

Charlie Parsons Property Consultant

24/05/2021 09:51

Sales, Lettings, Land & New Homes

Mott Street, Loughton IG10 £1,600,000 5 Bedrooms | 3 Receptions | 4 Bathrooms Located on a prestigious turning and surrounded

by Epping Forest is this exceptional five bedroom detached family home.

Tower Road, Epping CM16 Guide Price £750,000 – £775,000 3 Bedrooms | 2 Receptions | 1 Bathroom An immaculately presented three bedroom, detached family home in a premier location positioned off Epping High Street.

360° virtual walk-thru tours

Now available for all customers, increasing viewing to offer ratio by 80%.

Experiencing the whole property, click from room to room navigating all floors and views.

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Are you interested in how much your home is worth?

Get an instant valuation in just 60 seconds. butlerandstag.uk 24/05/2021 09:51

London & Home Counties Land & New Homes

West Essex Sales & Lettings

Chingford Sales & Lettings

London Sales & Lettings

020 4542 2999 land@butlerandstag.com

01992 667 666 westessex@butlerandstag.com

020 8524 3333 chingford@butlerandstag.com

020 8102 1236 london@butlerandstag.com

butlerandstag.uk

Monkham’s Avenue, Woodford Green IG8 £2,550,000 3 Bedrooms | 3 Receptions | 4 Bathrooms An elegant mock Tudor period house situated in the heart of The Monkham’s Estate. Spanning in excess of 4000 sq ft, accommodation offers wonderful character throughout complemented by a fabulous South facing garden with pool.

Theydon Park Road, Theydon Bois CM16 £3,200 pcm 4 Bedrooms | 2 Receptions | 3 Bathrooms An executive detached house, featuring four double bedrooms located in a prime position in the heart of this highly regarded village within easy walking distance of the Central Line tube station for swift access into the City, West End and beyond.

Land & New Homes

New development coming soon...

Prices from £625,000 – £650,000 – 6 semi-detached houses – 2 detached houses – Set within a gated development

neil.leahy@butlerandstag.com | michael.woolley@butlerandstag.com | richard.porter@butlerandstag.com

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Buckhurst Hill: 020 8504 2222 North Chingford: 020 8529 5500 South Chingford: 020 8524 0000 South Woodford: 020 8530 3333 Wanstead: 020 8989 0011 Walthamstow: 020 8503 6060

Buckhurst Hill

£685,000 F/H

Buckhurst Hill

▪ Four bedrooms ▪ Three receptions ▪ Fitted kitchen

▪ Stunning and spacious ▪ 3/4 bedroom ▪ Detached Chalet home

Call: 020 8504 2222

Call: 020 8504 2222

Buckhurst Hill

£340,000 L/H

Buckhurst Hill

▪ Top floor ▪ Gated ▪ Immaculate

▪ Victorian cottage ▪ Beautifully presented ▪ Car parking

Call: 020 8504 2222

Call: 020 8504 2222

£895,000 F/H

£550,000 F/H

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South Woodford

Guide price £1,250,000 F/H

South Woodford

OIEO £1,000,000 F/H

▪ Five bedroom semi detached House ▪ Three bathrooms ▪ Located on the popular Firs Estate

▪ Four / five bedroom Georgian terraced House ▪ Two receptions/three bathrooms ▪ Garage included in the sale

Call: 020 8530 3333

Call: 020 8530 3333

Wanstead

OIEO £715,000 F/H

▪ Victorian Cottage ▪ Two double bedrooms ▪ Walking distance to Wanstead street and central line station Call: 020 8989 0011

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Snaresbrook

OIEO £1,100,000 F/H

▪ Four bedroom semi detached ▪ Large private garden ▪ Chain free Call: 020 8989 0011

24/05/2021 10:12

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Commanding a magnificent location between Cuffley and Goff’s Oak, surrounded by leafy ancient woodland and designed for those seeking an idyllic haven less than an hour from the Capital*, St Edward’s Gate offers 23 contemporary homes within a private gated development. Prices from £950,000.

S H O W H O M E O P E N F R I D AY T O M O N D AY 1 0 A M – 4 P M

104 Cuffley Hill | Goff’s Oak | EN7 5EY CALL 020 8441 9555 NEWHOMES@STATONS.COM www.chasenewhomes.co.uk *Journey time travelling from Cuffley to Kings Cross by train c.50 mins, taken from National Rail

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Hunt Property Services is an independent boutique estate agency with a portfolio of luxury properties for sale and rent in London and Essex.

We are also the agent for Repton Park, an exclusive gated development in Woodford Green, where founder and Director Hayley Hunt has been a resident for over 20 years.

Our award winning team of experts will provide you with an outstanding bespoke service to guide you through every aspect of buying or selling a property.

We have also been recognised for providing excellence in property renovations, proudly winning Woman in Build Award two years running.

The Hunt team are available for consultations, market appraisals and viewings seven days a week.

CLAYBURY HALL Hunt are proud to introduce to the market as Sole Agents, this stunning unique three bedroom, two bathroom, two reception spectacular ground floor duplex apartment within the beautiful Claybury Hall, Repton Park.

Exclusive new listing at £1,700,000

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his exceptionally highend property is a fine example of luxury living in the heart of Claybury Woods and boasts a stunning outside space for dining surrounded by nature. The interior design team at Inside Job Ltd completely refurbished the property to the highest of specifications, including a bespoke custom-made kitchen with open-plan lounge and French doors leading to the garden. A separate utility room and bathroom is situated off the second reception on the ground floor.

The staircase leads down to the lower ground floor, where

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the three luxury bedrooms are presented, the master suite boasting a bespoke dressing room and en-suite. There are a further two bathrooms, also to the highest of specifications with luxury fixtures and fittings throughout.

The duplex is situated in a private secondary gated area within the prestigious gated community of Repton Park with 24 concierge and night-time security guards, making it the most safe and secure of places to live. Additional benefits include the exclusive Virgin Active Spa and Gym, plus Repton’s on-site bistro.

24/05/2021 15:16

Prestige

LIVING The inside story of a stunning transformation of an apartment in Claybury Hall

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unt Property has the pleasure of bringing to the market an astonishing newly refurbished luxury duplex, three-bedroom apartment in the beautiful grounds of Claybury Hall. The transformation of the property since original purchase from Hunt in 2016 has been remarkable, so we caught up with Inside Job Interiors Ltd to discover more.

Set over two floors, this exceptional 2,400 square foot secluded property has been redesigned and renovated to a superb standard by Inside Job Luxury Interiors, with stunning results and no expense spared.

From the moment you step through the front door, you are met with beautiful Italian floor tiles and bespoke designed Art Deco mirrors with inset metal and led details.

Removing the old staircase and adding glass has opened up the space to its full potential.

Underfloor heating has been installed to the ground floor, giving warmth throughout.

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PROPERTY • FOCUS

By replacing an existing bedroom on the ground floor, Inside Job has created a large luxurious lounge, which is perfect for family movie nights. Using tones of golds, blacks and mustards, it brings together a cosy yet luxurious feel to the room. The stunning large windows also give you the option to sit and relax, looking out onto the beautiful grounds.

Leading on from the lounge, the design team have replaced the original ground floor en-suite bathroom for a bespoke utility room, giving maximum storage, a separate place for laundry and even features a pet accessible washing area.

The kitchen area has been opened up to create the ultimate social lounge, kitchen and dining experience, making it ideal for entertaining. The renovation started with the removal of the dividing wall between the previous kitchen and lounge; once removed this created the space to design a statement bespoke kitchen, which now includes a six-metre island for increased worktop space and maximising the kitchen storage. Using a stunning sycamore veneer throughout, Inside Job have created an

Art Deco feel. Leading on from the kitchen is a handmade, bespoke 180cm round dining table, statement dining chairs and an exquisite crystal Italian chandelier, completing the picture of pure luxury.

Next is the sitting area, great for relaxing and admiring the view of the stunning communal grounds. The bi-fold doors lead out to a private patio area, which is perfect for entertaining in the summer.

Moving on to the lower floor, the master bedroom has been totally redesigned.

By changing the placement of the door an additional hallway storage cupboard has been created. The master bedroom features beautiful designer wallpaper and soft furnishings throughout. The bespoke, handmade headboard, bedsides and TV lift have been manufactured by Inside Job, using hand finished, high gloss sycamore with inset chrome detail.

Double pocket doors have been installed leading onto the master en-suite giving the element of hotel luxury. The en-suite comprises a large walk-in shower, double sink area and bath, all in keeping with the Art Deco

feel throughout the entire property.

Complementing the master bedroom suite is an outstanding dressing room, which features bespoke, floor to ceiling wardrobes, centre island with seating and make-up area including a light bulb mirror.

The Art Deco design has been incorporated within the wardrobe doors – bevelling the mirrors with a diamond design.

Maximum storage has been achieved with soft closing drawers around the centre island. The design team finished the room with a stunning Missoni dressing chair.

This duplex property showcases luxury living at Repton Park to its absolute best, and Hunt are delighted to be the sole agent and are excited to match the perfect buyer with this exceptional home.

H U N T P R O P E R T Y S E RV I C E S 732 Chigwell Road, Woodford, Woodford Green, IG8 8AL 020 8502 7667 huntpropertyservices.co.uk

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3D WALKTHROUGH

Eleven Acre Rise, Loughton

Asking price £2,900,000

Located in one of Loughton’s most prestigious cul-de-sacs, this stunning contemporary family home set within 1/3 of an acre of landscaped grounds is perfectly situated for Loughton High Road with its wide selection of shops, Central Line tube station, Epping Forest, and excellent private and state schools. The property has been extensively renovated to an exceptionally high standard and includes built-in B&W speakers, SONOS system, alarm and Villeroy & Boch ceramics throughout.

• Detached • Over 5000sq ft

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• High specification throughout • Immaculate garden

• Stunning heated pool • Spacious bedrooms • Hot tub • Prime cul de sac

24/05/2021 14:41

3D WALKTHROUGH

Spring Grove, Loughton

Asking price £1,850,000

The Elliott James team is delighted to bring to market this superb five bedroom detached family home. Located at the top of one of Loughton’s most prestigious roads, this property boasts unrivalled views over Epping Forest and surrounding areas and is just a short walk from Loughton High Road with its wide range of eateries and local boutiques, Loughton Central Line Station and Epping Forest.

• Detached • 5 bedrooms

• Stunning views • Incredible garden

• Prime Loughton • Purpose built annexe

• 2919 sq ft including annexe

0208 0165 333 | 165 High Road, Loughton IG IO 4LF www.ejpr.co.uk |

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Follow us on social media | Search ‘ejpr165’

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3D WALKTHROUGH

Westbury Lane, Buckhurst Hill Asking price £795,000 • • • • •

Link detached family home Three bedrooms Four-piece family bathroom Two off-street parking spaces Walking distance to Buckhurst Hill Central Line Station • 12 ft x 9 ft summer house • Newly fitted modern kitchen

3D WALKTHROUGH

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London Road, Romford

Roding Lane, Buckhurst Hill

£2,050 per month

£2,400 per month

• • • • •

• • • • •

Two bedrooms Beautiful location Tennis court Swimming pool Character build

Three bedrooms Modern throughout One parking space Close to station Available June

24/05/2021 14:41

AT T H E T O P O F O U R G A M E

ANNABEL KABEL

BEN SAMUELS

ELLIOTT LAWLOR

FRANKIE FAULKNER-WILD

FREDERICK CASSFORD

HEIDI FOSTER

JAMES LAWLOR

REBECCA HAWES

ROBERT GUNN

WAYNE COHEN

Prime Marketing Of All Sales and Lettings Properties CALL TO ARRANGE YOUR MARKET APPRAISAL

3D WALKTHROUGH

NEW LANDLORD I N V I TAT I O N

Hazel Lane, Chigwell £3,500 per month • • • • •

Five bedrooms Available June Unfurnished Secure gated development Garage

Let us assess your rental property or your entire portfolio and if we are instructed by 30th June 2021 you will qualify for free rent insurance.

Call 0208 0165 333 and quote “AbsolutelyJune21”

0208 0165 333 | 165 High Road, Loughton IG IO 4LF www.ejpr.co.uk |

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AVEY L ANE ,

High Beech

WOW FACTOR The

Elliott Lawlor from Elliott James – Prime Residential writes about what makes a truly stunning property

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t is not unusual for a beautiful property to stop us in our tracks. At Elliott James Prime Residential, we have more than our fair share of “wow” moments with the amazing properties we simultaneously advertise. Of course, the smallest of properties can pack a visual punch, but without doubt, the £2 million plus bracket takes you to another level of “wow”.

Even though many of these homes are unique, often they share the same characteristics that pique our interest. Number one on our hit list is a spectacular view, whether it is to gaze upon forestry, or a fabulous view of the city, our featured properties all have this in common.

Next on our agenda to guarantee instant jaw-dropping appeal is the incredible level of style and luxury found within these properties. Tamara Court, Stradbroke Drive, Chigwell is without doubt a perfect example of a wow factor property. The sheer audacity

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PROPERTY • FOCUS

PUDDI NG LANE

Chigwell, £3,500,000

A LBA N Y M A N O R ,

Buckhurst Hill, £3,500,000

OAK MANO R, HI G H B EECH

Loughton, £2,950,000

TA M A RA CO URT,

Stradbroke Drive, prices from £1,850,000

and self-belief of the developers, Imperial Developments, has produced a game-changing development of five luxury apartments including a 3,830sqft penthouse at £2,995,000 which is guaranteed to take your breath away and encourage you to contact our sales team immediately.

But, of course, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and our skill at EJPR is bringing out the best in every property and highlighting those features such as exquisite workmanship, fabulous kitchen designs and luxurious bathrooms. We paint a picture with words and descriptions, along with amazing 3D presentations so that every property we market produces that “wow” factor.

VI CARAG E LANE ,

Chigwell, £3,250,000

TO RWO O D, H IG H B E EC H

Loughton, £2,600,000

E L L I OT T JA M E S PRIME RESIDENTIAL 165 High Road, Loughton, IG10 4LF 020 8016 5333 ejpr.co.uk

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take a fresh look at selling your home this summer

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PRINCES ROAD, BUCKHURST HILL Price on application Caplen Estates are delighted to offer this stunning detached house located in the heart of Buckhurst Hill, Essex • Four Bedrooms • Spacious Open Plan Living Space • Contemporary Kitchen with Siemens Appliances • Four Bathrooms • Period Charm with a • Modern Twist • Fantastic Location - Walking Distance to Queens Rd • Fantastic School Catchment - St Johns Primary, Loyola, Daiglen & Braeside

The key to your future

Whitehall Lane, Buckhurst Hill £1,250,000

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Lord Bushes, Buckhurst Hill £399,995

Cherry Tree Rise, Buckhurst Hill Guide Price £800,000

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Caplen Estates 12 Queens Road | Buckhurst Hill Essex | IG9 5BY 0203 937 7733 | www.caplenestates.com

Reasons to choose Caplen Estates to sell your property Featured Property on Rightmove Premium Listing on Rightmove & Zoopla Listing on all major property portals - Rightmove, Zoopla, OnTheMarket, Prime Location Social Media Advertising; To our loyal Instagram followers, targeted Facebook & Google adverts, finding the right buyer for your home Financial Services & Legal Partners Sales Progression from our experienced sales team Support all the way to the day of move A Family Run Independent Estate Agency, with Customer Service at the heart of everything we do

Baldwins Hill, Loughton Offers In The Region Of £775,000

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Buckhurst Way, Buckhurst Hill Offers In The Region Of £675,000

Devonshire House, Woodford Green £2,000 pm

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PROPERTY • INSIGHT

Advanced

PLANNING News on Butler & Stag offering landlords upfront rent

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utler & Stag are delighted to have partnered with ARO and can now offer landlords up to 12 months rent paid in advance.

But, what is the Advanced Rent Option (ARO)?

ARO is their normal quality Full Management Service with the additional benefit of including a year’s rent upfront. ARO is available for new and existing tenancies provided the property is compliant and the tenants pass a

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professional referencing check. The ARO is changing the way investors and landlords are looking at their investments and is a huge game changer for anyone with a buy-tolet property. ARO offers landlords the ultimate in terms of peace of mind, convenience and financial freedom. How does it work? As a member of the ARO network, they use their proprietary Primary Tenancy™ business model to pay you a year’s rent in advance, less their standard fees and charges.

The rent is then collected monthly from the tenants in the property.

Practically speaking and in other respects the ARO is similar to their conventional Full Management Service. Assuming there is not already a tenant in residence, they will find you a quality tenant. Prior to move in, they will ensure that the property is fully compliant and the tenant is professionally referenced, and during the tenancy they will carry out all their normal duties as your managing agent.

In the case of a new tenancy they will transfer your funds less their agreed fees once the tenant has moved in and paid their first month’s rent. If you already have a tenant they will transfer your funds once they have completed their checks, established a new 12 month tenancy and received the first month’s rent.

The ARO, like any conventional Full Management Service, is available with or without a rent guarantee. If you choose not to have the rent guarantee and the residing tenant does not pay the full 12 months rent then you would be liable to repay the balance, or Butler & Stag can collect it back from a new tenant at their discretion.

Find out more valuation. butlerandstag.uk/aro-calculator

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THINKING OF ENTERTAINING AT HOME? Think of us, House of Interiors for all your Interior Design needs from design to build to completion.

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22 The Fairways, Cheshunt, Hertfordshire, EN8 0NL T: 01992 845 655 E: showroom@houseofinteriors.com www.houseofinteriors.com @houseofinteriorsltd

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SPECIALISTS IN INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR SHADING Contact us to arrange a showroom or home appointment

Awnings

Blinds

Curtains

Design

Electric

Shutters

POSNER INTERIORS LTD | 98 GEORGE LANE | SOUTH WOODFORD | E18 1AD 0208 989 8354 | www.posnerinteriors.com | info@posnerinteriors.com

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