Life Magazines (Essex Editions) April 2022 by Fish Media Group Ltd

RHS CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW 24 - 28 MAY 2022

Jason Clelland has a wealth of experience in the Garden sector and has been in the Landscape/Garden maintenance business all his life. Based in Welwyn Garden City, Jason works on schemes all over Hertfordshire, Essex and North London. With an extensive knowledge of the finest Turfing projects both natural and artificial, JC Garden Services are also an approved Millboard Decking installer. Jason also has great knowledge of Garden Maintenance, with an exclusive portfolio of regular clients in both private and commercial sectors. JC Garden Services offer a professional and passionate service to help create your dream garden. jobs undertaken from small domestic gardens to large commercial installs.

01707 883581 07932 603951 Email: jcgs2@icloud.com

Facebook: JC Garden Services Instagram: jcgardenservicesllp Twitter: jcclelland Web: jcgardenservices.co.uk

FROM THE

EDITOR W

ith an anticipated 200,000 weddings due to take place in 2022, in addition to the 280,000 weddings that take place in the UK each year, figures suggest that we’re entering record years for the Weddings industry. Recent surveys by The National Wedding Show in partnership with Confetti* have revealed that 93% of couples have postponed their wedding to a later date, with 67% of those couples saying their wedding budget has not been impacted by the pandemic and 13% of couples saying the pandemic has meant they now have a bigger wedding budget than originally planned. The UK’s leading wedding event, The National Wedding Show will be going ahead this Spring at London ExCeL on Saturday 23 & Sunday 24 April 2022. The greatest flower show on earth returns to Royal Hospital Chelsea with stunning garden designs, gorgeous floral displays and endless shopping. The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) can also reveal an exciting new headline sponsor, The Newt in Somerset. RHS has revealed the garden line-up for 2022, from the very best garden designers gathering to showcase cutting-edge design and ideas with inspiration, colour and innovation. Expect to be dazzled with seasonal plants and colours not seen in May since 2019.

Grand Designs Live will return to ExCeL London, hosted by TV presenter and design guru Kevin McCloud. The inspirational event is a must-visit for those looking to find information on and learn about the world of interiors, home design, self and custom build. Grand Designs Live features the latest in ideas, innovation and home project guidance. Visitors can find an array of exhibitors, experts and live talks, across four unique Project Zones; Build, Kitchens & Bathrooms, Gardens and Interiors. Visitors will have the opportunity to hear from an array of industry experts at the Grand Theatre, where an engaging line-up of talks will take centre stage on each day. These include a broad range of home, interior, custom and self-build topics from extensions to sustainability in the building industry and much more.

Faye Manning Editor

EDITOR FAYE MANNING EDITOR’S ASSISTANT KIERAN BULLWORTHY SUB EDITOR CHANG KAIRA FASHION EDITOR BEN JONES BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER PRUVEE PATEL ACCOUNT/ADMIN KATHY MANNING, ANDREE GEORGIOU DESIGN & PRODUCTION BOB AMBROSE DIRECTORS PATRICK SMITH, RORY SMITH

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OUT & ABOUT – We put fantastic local businesses and exciting events in the spotlight each month – I M AG E : C H E L S E A F L OW E R S H OW

OUT & ABOUT

20 APRIL BEN ELTON LIVE 1980s era-defining comedian Ben Elton returns to the stage to explore the modern age, bringing his hilarious perspectives with him! As the ‘Godfather’ of modern stand up, Elton’s 1987 and 1988 shows Motormouth and Motorvation cemented him as one of the scene’s most outspoken voices, with his left-leaning politics, ranting style, and quick wit capturing public consciousness. As Ben says: “The last time I toured I was still smarter than my phone. Things have definitely taken a funny turn.“ Be in the audience for the filming of the new Ben Elton comedy special! Southend Palace Theatre, Southend on Sea, Essex SS0 9LA

[EVENTS]

THE CALENDAR 12 MAY

AN EVENING WITH MORTIMER & WHITEHOUSE Bob and Paul invite you to join them for a chat about fishing, life, death and falling over. And Ted of course. Will Bob ever stop winding? Will Paul ever stop whining? This is your chance to ask them. You never know, you might get an answer. Charter Hall, Colchester, Essex CO1 1YH

12 APRIL 2022

14 APRIL GIOVANNI PERNICE - THIS IS ME The showman is once again set to light up the stage, along with his cast of professional dancers, for another fabulous year of touring. With the Italian’s natural charm, combined with beautiful choreography perfectly complemented by a fabulous soundtrack, THIS IS ME pays homage to the music and dances that have inspired Giovanni’s career, from a competition dancer to one of the biggest names on the hit BBC show. Cliffs Pavilion, Southend On Sea, Essex SS0 7RA

15 APRIL DINOSAUR WORLD LIVE

25 APRIL

SANDI TOKSVIG LIVE! Following the sell-out 2019 tour of National Trevor, the comedian, broadcaster, writer, campaigner and all-round good egg, returns to over 35 UK theatres with her brand-new show, Next Slide Please. In an evening of warmth, love and laughter, Sandi will explore reasons to be cheerful after many long months of coronacoaster gloom. Expect fascinatingly funny facts, silly jokes and a quick-fire Q&A. (Don’t expect handstands, ministerial behaviour or impressions of Chris Whitty) Cliffs Pavilion, Southend On Sea, Essex SS0 7RA

Dare to experience the dangers and delights of Dinosaur World Live in this roarsome interactive show for all the family. Grab your compass and join our intrepid explorer across uncharted territories to discover a pre-historic world of astonishing and remarkably life-like dinosaurs. Chelmsford City Theatres, Fairfield Rd, Chelmsford, Essex CM1 1JG

27 APRIL WUTHERING HEIGHTS April De Angelis’ adaptation of Wuthering Heights brings Emily Brontë’s passionate and spellbinding tale of forbidden love and revenge to life on stage. Set on the wild windswept Yorkshire moors, Wuthering Heights is the tempestuous story of free-spirited Catherine and dark, brooding Heathcliff. Headgate Theatre, 14 Chapel Street North, Colchester, Essex CO2 7AT

17 APRIL 28 APRIL CHRIS MCCAUSLAND - SPEAKY BLINDER As seen on Would I Lie to You? - Have I Got News for You - Live at the Apollo - and 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown… He’s blind. He’s a dad. He’s a husband. He’s third in command. He’ll speaky about all of that, plus loads more nonsense in between! Chris McCausland is heading back out on tour, but don’t worry, he’s got somebody else doing the driving. Southend Palace Theatre, Southend on Sea, Essex SS0 9LA

SUPERHEROES & VILLAINS Join us for some Family Fun this Easter Bank Holiday at our Superheroes and Villains event! Join us 11am-4pm on Sunday 17th April and get a selfie with Batman and more of your favourite characters, we’ll also be joined by some famous tv/ movie cars. Festival Leisure Park Festival Way Basildon Essex SS14 3WB APRIL 2022 13

22 APRIL SHERLOCK HOLMES MURDER MYSTERY EVENING

27-29 MAY

THE ROSÉ FESTIVAL An exciting new concept, The Rosé Festival, is coming to the Gardens of Fulham Palace in London, SW6. The festival will celebrate all things rosé, food, music with special guests throughout the weekend, and is set to kick off the Summer season in true style. Throughout the long weekend you can enjoy samplings from over 40 rosé producers from around the world, with brands including Mirabeau and Léoube. For tickets visit: therosefestival.seetickets.com/tour/the-rose-festival

An evening of great fun and experience for all ages, combining good food with a dramatic crime scene and a clue solving game. You can enjoy this special evening with your friends, or family, without the headache of having to organise it yourself. Museum of Power Hatfield Road Langford Maldon Essex CM9 6QA

11-24 APRIL CIRCUS EXTREME A new death-defying and extreme circus is descending on the UK. As part of its European tour, Circus Extreme is bringing some of the most talented performers in the world for a one-ofa-kind performance that’s been five years in the making. Merging modern and contemporary styles with extreme stunts and classic clown escapades, audiences will be amazed by the jam-packed Circus Extreme with show-stopping performances that will have you on the edge of your seat, when you’re not falling off it with laughter. Lakeside Shopping Centre, Thurrock, Essex RM20 2ZP

26 MARCH RAW ONION COMEDY This is the first of many Raw OnionComedy nights to come to the Mayfair Venue and it comes to you with a Grade A line up !! Paul Sinha - Tonight at the Palladium, Would I Lie To You, The Chase, Paul Sinha’s TV Showdown. Graeme Matthews - Britain’s Got Talent. Funmbi Omotayo - Tramadol Nights, Channel 4 TNT Show, Channel 4. James Beatty - Your Host & MC. Strictly over 18yrs only Mayfair Venue, High Road, Chadwell Heath, Romford, Essex RM6 4BD

14 APRIL 2022

22 APRIL BALLET CENTRAL TOUR Ballet Central presents a programme created by internationally acclaimed choreographers. The works include original pieces created on the company’s dancers which showcase the skills, artistry and versatility of young performers, all on the cusp of professional careers. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Ln, Hornchurch, Essex RM11 1QT

OUT & ABOUT

THE NATIONAL WEDDING SHOW 2022 London ExCel Saturday 23 – Sunday 24 April 2022, 10am - 5pm

ith an anticipated 200,000 weddings due to take place in 2022, in addition to the 280,000 weddings that take place in the UK each year, figures suggest that we’re entering record years for the Weddings industry. Recent surveys by The National Wedding Show in partnership with Confetti* have revealed that 93% of couples have postponed their wedding to a later date, with 67% of those couples saying their wedding budget has not been impacted by the pandemic and 13% of couples saying the pandemic has meant they now have a bigger wedding budget than originally planned. The UK’s leading wedding event, The National Wedding Show will be going ahead this Spring at London ExCeL on Saturday 23 & Sunday 24 April 2022. The National Wedding Show has established itself over the past 25 years as the ultimate destination for wedding planning, with thousands of couples visiting the shows every season. Featuring hundreds of wedding suppliers already confirmed, the Spring 2022 show will continue to include a stunning Catwalk, a WEDTalk stage, the Inspired Bakes Gallery, and much more. The Destination Wedding & Honeymoon Show will run alongside the ExCel show, showcasing venues and services from beautiful locations all over the world. 16 APRIL 2022

Cassandra Denman, Group Show Director says “We’ve been working hard behind the scenes to improve our visitor experience with exciting new features, to attract more wedding planning couples to the show than ever. The level of ticket sales we’ve seen in the past few months has been unprecedented. There’s a real buzz around the events this Spring and we can’t wait to be back, supporting the best suppliers the wedding industry has to offer as they get back on their feet after a challenging 2 years.” *Based on 5,353 responses collected through surveys run by The National Wedding Show in partnership with Confetti in February and August 2021. LIFE MAGAZINES READER OFFER Quote LIFEMAG and get standard tickets for only £16.50 and VIP tickets for only £30 For more details on all events, please visit nationalweddingshow.co.uk

OUT & ABOUT

Looking to the Future

Coopersale Hall School in Epping has recently unveiled some exciting plans for the future.

urrently an independent prep school for children up to age 11, from September 2023 the school will be welcoming its first Year 7 pupils as it starts the journey of becoming the third ‘all through’ school in the Oak-Tree Group. Development of Facilities This major milestone in the school’s development follows on from years of planning, starting with the purchase and redevelopment of the a neighbouring cottage, which will be transformed into a new senior building with classrooms, toilets, Science Lab/ store, offices, support rooms, and ICT suite. There will also be a new senior block with classrooms and changing rooms. Further plans include additional bicycle racks and electric car charging points to promote more sustainable travel to school. An outside area will also be re-landscaped to create a senior recreation/seating area. Senior Experience within the Oak-Tree Group Matthew Hagger, Group Managing Principal, is looking forward to the future: “We have considerable experience within the Oak-Tree Group working with senior students at Normanhurst since 1996 and then Braeside since 2015. GCSE results at both schools have been consistently high and our students have an excellent track record moving to a range of first choice sixth form schools and colleges to study A-Levels before moving to their universities. Claire Osborn, our Group Education Principal, and I have worked together for many years putting together senior teaching teams, developing senior curricula, working with GCSE exam boards and monitoring the progression of the students against a range of assessments. Claire was Headmistress of Normanhurst for 10 years and Headmistress of Braeside for 3 years, and so has a wealth of senior experience that will be invaluable as we shape a new

18 APRIL 2022

senior department at Coopersale Hall. Moreen Barnard, Coopersale Hall’s Headmistress, also has experience working with senior students at Normanhurst and was Head of School ( Juniors and Seniors) before moving to Coopersale Hall in 2020. With such additional expertise at our disposal, the move towards senior education seems more natural now than ever.” Welcoming Year 7s Coopersale Hall School prides itself in its small class sizes and the individual attention received by each pupil, and aims to continue this for senior pupils taught in smaller classes. There will be a phased introduction of senior pupils to Coopersale Hall over several years, starting with Year 7 in September 2023. There will be a gradual progression to GCSE provision, with older year groups added in subsequent years up to Year 11. The Benefits of all through education There are many benefits that come with an ‘all through model’. It provides the opportunity for continuity of education from juniors to seniors without the disruption that comes with changing schools. Teachers get to know the children very well, both academically and personally, and as a result can better cater to specific needs and learning styles. Bringing different ages together can foster a greater sense of responsibility as older pupils often act as positive role models for others. Matthew Hagger continues, “There has been huge demand for a senior department at Coopersale Hall for a number of years not only within our own community, but also in the local area. I am delighted that we will finally be able to address this demand. We’re certainly in for a busy 18 months ahead!” Coopersale Hall School is a privately owned school for girls and boys in Epping, providing a more personalised education in a family-orientated nurturing environment.

Coopersale Hall School prides itself in its small class sizes and the individual attention received by each pupil, and aims to continue this for senior pupils taught in smaller classes.

THE DETAILS Coopersale Hall School For more information visit: www.coopersalehallschool.co.uk

Coopersale Hall School Epping

THE OAK-TREE GROUP OF SCHOOLS Balancing excellence with affordability NORMANHURST SCHOOL NORTH CHINGFORD

BRAESIDE SCHOOL

OAKLANDS SCHOOL

BUCKHURST HILL

LOUGHTON

VISIT OUR WEBSITE OR CONTACT THE SCHOOLS DIRECTLY TO BOOK A PERSONAL TOUR

For more information www.oaktreeschools.co.uk

@OaktreeSchools

OUT & ABOUT

World-renowned, glamorous and quintessentially British..

RHS CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW PREVIEW

24 - 28 May 2022

he greatest flower show on earth returns to Royal Hospital Chelsea with stunning garden designs, gorgeous floral displays and endless shopping. The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) can also reveal an exciting new headline sponsor, The Newt in Somerset. RHS has revealed the garden line-up for 2022, from the very best garden designers gathering to showcase cutting-edge design and ideas with inspiration, colour and innovation. Expect to be dazzled with seasonal plants and colours not seen in May since 2019.

2022 SHOW GARDENS INCLUDE: • The Mind Garden - designed by Andy Sturgeon, built by Crocus. Inspiring us to connect with each other for our mental health. When we are struggling, sharing what we’re going through can change everything, which is why The Mind Garden is designed to be a place for people to connect, be themselves and open up. The New Blue Peter Garden – designed by Juliet Sargeant., built by Gardenlink. In the BBC centenary year, its flagship children’s programme, Blue Peter is getting a new garden. The theme is

‘discover soil’ encouraging us to investigate the soil beneath our feet bringing it up to eye level for us to see, touch, smell and hear. After RHS Chelsea Flower Show, it will move to its permanent home at RHS Bridgewater in Manchester, where everyone can visit. • The RAF Benevolent Fund Garden – designed by John Everiss, built by Peter Gregory Landscapes and George Everiss Design. A stone spiral wall surrounds and protects the sculpture. Enclosed within, a curved larch seat allows the visitor to look up at the pilot and imagine the view he would have seen. The RAF Benevolent Fund has been providing support to veterans, serving personnel and their families for over 100 years. Its garden celebrates the help and protection the charity has continued to provide. • The RNLI Garden - designed and built by Chris Beardshaw Ltd. A celebration of the history and modernity of this multi-faceted charity, which has been saving lives at sea for almost 200 years. Its design marries style hints from the organisation’s Georgian origins with contemporary design cues to reflect the forward-looking spirit of today’s Royal National Lifeboat Institution.

2022 SANCTUARY GARDENS INCLUDE: • A Garden Sanctuary by Hamptons - designed by Tony Woods, built by Garden Club London. Creating a space for garden living. In collaboration, Koto Design have created a carbon-neutral 20 APRIL 2022

The New Blue Peter Garden – designed by Juliet Sargeant., built by Gardenlink

garden cabin. The small, sculptural structure offers a place of seclusion and meditation, and an immersive space to connect with the surrounding power of nature and plants. • The Boodles Travel Garden - designed by Thomas Hoblyn, built by The Garden Builders. 60 years ago, Anthony Wainwright, grandfather to the current chairman of Boodles travelled around the world in just 16 days. The Boodles Travel Garden celebrates this incredible endeavour with planting drawn from all corners of the world, creating a global garden, offering a calm sanctuary to rest and reflect on the journey. • Out of the Shadows - designed and built by Kate Gould Gardens. designed to feel like a contemporary spa garden utilising hardy tropical planting to create a private, calm and relaxing space. Inspired by recent dark times, the garden is a safe haven for people to exercise and socialise in small groups, a space designed to revitalise both the body and mind.

paradise for every gardener! It’s also the place where RHS showcase the Sustainable Product of the Year and Plant of the Year. The Discovery Zone champions the latest exciting innovations and research from the world of horticulture. Explore interactive displays and educational exhibits in this dedicated space.

THE RHS CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW EXPERIENCE Enjoy exclusive boutique shopping - from garden buildings and seating to jewellery, textiles, arts and crafts, there’s something to tempt everyone. All around the showground, you’ll find a host of exhibitors, both new and established, selling their innovative and desirable horticultural-themed products. Expect to be wowed with a mouth-watering array of food and drink available including glamorous restaurants including Jardin Blanc with Raymond Blanc plus cafes, food courts and picnic areas are perfect for a quick bite to eat. For more details and to book tickets, visit rhs.org.uk/chelsea

“The Discovery Zone champions the latest exciting innovations and research from the world of horticulture”

Above: ; The RNLI Garden, Show Garden, designed by Chris Beardshaw

Houseplant Studios returns with more home inspiration after an incredibly popular debut in 2021.

THE GREAT PAVILION An oasis of colour and scents with some of the world’s finest growers and nurseries offering stunning displays, plants for sale and expert advice. You will find plants and flowers of all varieties – a APRIL 2022 21

OUT & ABOUT

SUPERHEROES, ORPHANS & ORIGINS:

125 YEARS IN COMICS

nter the world of superheroes at the Foundling Museum, Bloomsbury, in the first major exhibition to explore the representation of foundlings, orphans, adoptees, and foster children in comics from around the globe. DC’s Superman, who was found by his adoptive parents, is one of many comic heroes who are orphans: Spider-Man’s parents die in a plane crash; Batman’s parents are killed in a street robbery; and Black Panther – whose mother dies soon after childbirth and whose father is killed – is known as ‘the Orphan King’. Marvel’s X-Men experience both discrimination and social ostracisation. The superheroes’ early life experiences impact on their roles and the stance they take over good and evil in their comic lives. Looking beyond the traditional ‘superhero’ genre the exhibition also includes characters from early newspaper comic strips, Japanese Manga and contemporary graphic novel protagonists. Historical newspapers, original artwork and contemporary digital work will be on display, as well as examples of international comics rarely exhibited in the UK. Three new artistic commissions that examine care identity and experience have been specially created for the exhibition by comic artists Asia Alfasi, Bex Glendining and Woodrow Phoenix.

22 APRIL 2022

In the context of the Museum – which tells the story of the Uk’s first children’s charity – there are striking parallels to explore between real foundlings and their illustrated counterparts. The exhibition opens on Friday 1 April and only runs until Sunday 28 August, and you can find out more and book your tickets online at foundlingmuseum.org.uk.

Above: Sunny © Taiyo Matsumoto _ Shogakukan (Vol 1) Below, from left: Batman, Vol 1 #51, Bob Kane, Charles Paris, Ira Schnapp © & ™ DC. All Rights Reserved. Used with permission; New York World’s Fair Comics,Vol. 1 #2, Jack Burnley © & ™ DC. All Rights Reserved. Used with permission; Zenobia © 2016 Morten Dürr and Lars Horneman (p6)

OUT & ABOUT

A POLO POWERHOUSE A

Sandpolo saddles up for a 15 year milestone in July.

s the British Beach Polo Championships or Sandpolo as it has become known, saddles up for its 15th year anniversary in July, we look back on the world’s largest beach polo event and how it has brought polo, parties, prestige and pizazz to Dorset’s golden coast – Sandbanks. Most people can understand football or volleyball being played on a beach yet few understand the sport of polo let alone it being played on a sandy beach. The sport of horse polo dates back to Persia in 600 BC and has since become known as the Sport of Kings played in exclusive clubs 24 APRIL 2022

such as the Guards Polo Club and Cowdray Park. However, in 2007 Johnny Wheeler, an amateur polo player, was researching his family history in Poole, Dorset when he came up with the idea of the British Beach Polo Championships to be played on the famous blue flag beach of Sandbanks. With endorsement from the Hurlingham Polo Association and the full support of the local Council Johnny and his friend, polo manager David Heaton-Ellis, held the first event in 2008. Johnny recalls: ‘The beach was perfect – wide enough at high tide for the polo arena,

“Sandpolo is an enduring boutique event that has enjoyed entertaining an enthusiastic and convivial audience for 15 years”

marquees and grandstand. People were intrigued by the glamour and physicality of the sport of polo, Sandbanks was firmly on the map due to TV documentaries and the astonishing house prices. Top polo players were hungry to play in front of large crowds and sponsors were keen to promote their brands and entertain clients.’ The 2-day event today which attracts 8000 people is still based on the original principle of being polo driven, with a broad range of tickets from hospitality and VIP to general admission. The entertainment off the pitch is vital to its success with glamorous parties on both nights enjoyed by players and supporters alike. Friday night’s ‘Boogie on the Beach’ is an explosion of soul, motown and disco whilst Saturday’s ‘Encore’ beach party is a decade hopping, genre defying night of entertainment to celebrate the closing of the Sandpolo weekend in style. Initiatives to keep the event fresh have included the first camel polo match in the UK, international beach volleyball, beach rugby, parachute jumps, celebrity DJs, fashion shows, celebrity chefs and of course the charity race between the fastest pony and a 4 x 4. Sandpolo now has international acclaim with

“The sport of horse polo dates back to Persia in 600 BC and has since become known as the Sport of Kings”

visitors from all over the world. Global brands such as Barclays, Sunseeker, Land Rover, Moet Hennessey, Oakley and Whispering Angel sponsor teams and clamber for exposure. While the event might sound inapproachable to many, it remains accessible to everyone who wants to get into the spirit of the occasion and be part of the experience. It is friendly and affordable and now truly on the South Coast’s social and sporting calendar. Despite the celebrity’s and super-rich mingling at the intimate beach site, the polo matches are still the highlight for most. Often referred to as ice hockey on horseback, the skill and agility of pony and rider is extraordinary. Spectators are close enough to hear the heavy breathing of the horses as they ‘ride off ’ the opposition and see the orange inflatable ball fly towards the goal. The humoured commentary always adds to the excitement, explaining the rules and demystifying the players, ponies and background to the sport. Sandpolo is an enduring boutique event that has enjoyed entertaining an enthusiastic and convivial audience for 15 years. Blessed with a superb beach and surrounding area, a supportive council and the most talented polo players there is no reason why the event should not continue for another 15 years. For more information please visit sandpolo.com or email sm@sandpolo.com APRIL 2022 25

OUT & ABOUT

GRAND DESIGNS LIVE 2022 30 April – 8 May 2022, ExCeL London The grand home event full of inspiration and expert advice

rand Designs Live will return to ExCeL London, hosted by TV presenter and design guru Kevin McCloud. The inspirational event is a must-visit for those looking to find information on and learn about the world of interiors, home design, self and custom build. Grand Designs Live features the latest in ideas, innovation and home project guidance. Visitors can find an array of exhibitors, experts and live talks, across four unique Project Zones; Build, Kitchens & Bathrooms, Gardens and Interiors. Visitors will have the opportunity to hear from an array of industry experts at the Grand Theatre, where an engaging line-up of talks will take centre stage on each day. These include a broad range of home, interior, custom and self-build topics from extensions to sustainability in the building industry and much more. Alongside Kevin McCloud, Property Expert, Writer and Broadcaster, Kunle Barker will also take to the stage across the nine days as compere and host on certain talks. Daily sessions at the Grand Theatre, will include ‘Meet The Grand Designers’; presented by different homeowners from the most recent series of the popular TV series on which the exhibition is based. Each day the Grand Designers will also take part in ‘Self Build Simplified’, where they will be joined on stage by industry experts for a dynamic Q&A panel session

26 APRIL 2022

exploring the various aspects of their self-build projects. Join Architect Richard Hawkes as he talks through whether it’s worth the risk to build a home in the middle of the countryside under the aspirational national planning policy, “Paragraph 80”. ‘The Working from Home Project’, sponsored by Crown Paints, will see a range of interior designers competing to come up with diverse, creative, and clever concepts to transform the small space into useful and beautiful multifunctional working environments for any home. Visitors can browse the room sets to take home ideas, inspiration, and contacts for their own home designs. Regardless of what stage your build project is at or whether you’re renovating one room in your home, the Show will have all the information and inspiration you need for your very own Grand Design project. For more information, visit Grand Designs Live at granddesignslive.com

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OUT & ABOUT

McLaren Automotive

unveils the McLaren Artura Art Car in collaboration with British artist Nat Bowen

cLaren Automotive, the British creator of luxury, high-performance supercars, has revealed the McLaren Artura Art Car - created as a regional collaboration with Nat Bowen, a leading British abstract artist known for her vibrant, colourful pieces. The unique supercar featuring the artist signature artwork took centre stage in her long-anticipated exhibition taking place at the ME Dubai hotel between 24 February and 31 March. The creative study explores the use of Chromology, representing the psychology behind colour, as well as themes of ‘Art’ and ‘Future’, which have inspired the name of the brand’s first high-performance hybrid. The exterior of the car features translucent resin pigments, which adapt to the light, reflecting and absorbing the surroundings and resulting in the work becoming a part of the space it inhabits. Mohamed Fawzi, Market Director – Middle East & Africa, McLaren Automotive : “We are delighted to have collaborated with Nat Bowen to showcase the all-new McLaren Artura featuring her signature multi-layered artwork in the iconic surroundings of the ME Dubai. The exhibition received phenomenal reception from the attending

28 APRIL 2022

“It has been an honour to work with McLaren Automotive on this exciting concept”

guests and allowed us to successfully engage with the extremely passionate art community in Dubai and the rest of the Middle East region.” Nat Bowen: “It has been an honour to work with McLaren Automotive on this exciting concept and display it as part of my first solo exhibition in Dubai. My goal was to provide a truly immersive experience and transport the visitors into a meditative state away from everyday distraction, as well as allow them to further explore and develop their relationship with colour” All-new from the ground-up, the McLaren Artura marks the beginning of the next chapter for the pioneering company and a new era in the world of supercar technology and performance. Underpinned by the McLaren philosophy of super-lightweight engineering, the Artura is a distillation of every attribute inherent in a McLaren, combined with faster throttle response, lower emissions and ability to run in pure EV mode, thanks to its ground-breaking electrified powertrain. For more information on the award-winning range of McLaren supercars, please visit: cars. mclaren.com.

“

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OUT & ABOUT

Discover London Transport Museum’s Depot this April

o behind the scenes of this working collection store and enjoy tours, talks, creative workshops and plenty of family fun inspired by the museum’s collection of iconic transport posters. This April London Transport Museum is throwing open the doors to its Depot in Acton, west London, from Thursday 21 to Sunday 24 April. Step inside a transport treasure trove, home to more than 320,000 objects, from historic buses, Tube trains and trams to maps, signs, and a worldfamous poster collection. At ‘The Art of the Poster’ Open Days, visitors will discover how art and design have uniquely characterised London transport over the decades. Each day guests can tour the museum’s poster store – usually closed to the public – with knowledgeable volunteer guides. Adults visiting on Thursday 21 and Friday 22 April can get creative at interactive poster making workshops with artist Emma Hockley.

30 APRIL 2022

On Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 April, a lively programme of talks with curators and artists will be on offer. Curious art fans can learn about iconic posters of the past and hear how contemporary artworks are commissioned. Over the weekend, families can follow a trail to explore the Depot and its curious collection, create their own poster design to take home, and hop aboard the much-loved London Transport Miniature Railway. Those looking to take home their very own piece of transport poster art history should also stop by the Depot shop to browse limited edition and framed prints, as well as reproduction posters. Timed tickets to visit the Depot must be booked in advance online. Adult day tickets cost £15 and tickets for children cost £7.50. Kids aged 3 and under go free. Concession rates and local resident discounts are available. Tickets to ride the London Transport Miniature Railway are sold separately on the day. To book visit: ltmuseum.co.uk

“Over the weekend, families can follow a trail to explore the Depot and its curious collection, create their own poster design to take home, and hop aboard the much-loved London Transport Miniature Railway”

FASHION, HEALTH

& BEAUTY

– Fashion, health and beauty news to keep you looking and feeling your best – IMAGE: HA IR TRENDS

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

LAMBORGHINI NEW AUTUMN/WINTER

2022

KIDS COLLECTION

utomobili Lamborghini launches its new Autumn/ Winter 2022 collection for kids aged four to sixteen, in collaboration with the Danish children’s wear specialist KABOOKI. The Junior collection encapsulates the essence of Automobili Lamborghini: dynamic and colourful. The range of casual clothes and accessories expresses creativity, dynamism and energy through the use of slogans, deconstructed logos, and an artistic reimagining of iconic elements from the Sant’Agata Bolognese super sports cars. The colours of the children’s lines are immediately redolent of the colours of Lamborghini super sports cars, including yellows, greens, blues and oranges, as well as an on-trend cerise. T-shirts include a reflective black detailed motif on a same-colour background, with a ‘race’ t-shirt in various colours depicting the Aventador SVJ racing across the front. The number 63 is a recurring theme, reminding young super sports car enthusiasts that 1963 was the year Ferruccio Lamborghini created his car company. Leisure wear with a ‘glitch’ effect from gaming screens includes t-shirts, a sweatshirt and even a baseball cap and backpack. Logos on various items are foil printed, reflective and even rubberised: the Automobili Lamborghini brand, like its clothing, is about being authentic, brave and living life to the full. The collection will be available from September in the Automobili Lamborghini sales channels and selected retail outlets. lamborghinistore.com/uk/kids

34 APRIL 2022

Boy’s Lamborghini Race T-Shirt – yellow with custom script logo. £38.00 Boy’s Aventador SVJ T-Shirt – blue with custom script logo. £38.00 Boy’s Graphic T-Shirt – green with a script logo and graphic print. £38.00

APRIL 2022 35

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Boy’s block colour soft-shell jacket – with ¾ zip, front pockets and elasticated cuffs and hem. Custom script logo print and three-tone detail on the back. £138.00

36 APRIL 2022

Boy’s crew-neck block colour sweatshirt - grey/green with 3d shield logo print on the chest. £59.00

APRIL 2022 37

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Boy’s Huracán Evo Rwd t-shirt – with digital print and label with shield logo at the hem. £43.00

38 APRIL 2022

Boy’s zip-through 63 hoodie – black with kangaroo pocket. Custom 3d script logo print on the chest and “63” logo tape on shoulders and sleeves. £85.00 Boy’s 63 sweatpants – black with pockets and drawstring waist.“63” Logo tape down the side. £59.00

APRIL 2022 39

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Boy’s reflective detail t-shirt – black with rainbow effect reflective details. £59.00

40 APRIL 2022

Boy’s rainbow effect script logo t-shirt - navy blue with a rainbow effect script logo foil print. £38.00

APRIL 2022 41

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Boy’s rainbow effect script logo t-shirt – pink and a rainbow effect script logo foil print. £38.00 Boy’s race t-shirt – white with a custom multi-colour aventador svj print. £38.00

42 APRIL 2022

Boy’s zip-through 63 hoodie – yellow with kangaroo pocket. Custom 3d script logo print on the chest and “63” logo tape on shoulders and sleeves. £85.00

APRIL 2022 43

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

[NEWS]

FASHION & BEAUTY TASTE OF THE ORIENT SUMMER LOVIN’ Beatrice (right) was one of the first dresses we ever made at Palava. She has a tried and tested design, exceptionally loved by the Palava team, and our wonderful customers! Her shape is flattering and easy to wear - both day to day and for occasions. Beatrice is also fully lined in organic cotton, giving her a touch of luxury. Peggy (left) is our summer top of choice. Her retro shape is unbeatable when paired with a high waist skirt or trousers. Grab yours quick, we sell out of these tops every year! palava.co

A LITTLE LESS ORDINARY This vegan cork womens wallet is made using cork, the natural alternative to leather. Not only is the material wonderful to work with, but the areas used to grow it are home to a huge range of wildlife found only on the Iberian peninsula! life-less-ordinary.co.uk

IN THE BAG This high quality laptop bag is upcycled from truck tyres and handles from seatbelts. The unique origins of this bag are sure to be a talking point, but it’s also as equally practical as it is stylish. pasoluna.co.uk 2 L 22 002222 4 14 0 AAPPRRII L

This stunning oriental style silk kimono dressing gown is made from 100% pure silk and is carefully designed to capture the elegance of a vintage kimono. Get your beauty sleep with this matching luxury silk eye mask. helenloveday.com

SPRING ESSENTIAL Living in the UK means whatever the season, you still might need your umbrella closeby! This compact Duck Umbrella is small enough to fit in a tote bag! originalduckhead.com/

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APRIL 2022 ??

FASHION,HEALTH HEALTH && BEAUTY BEAUTY FASHION,

HAIR TRENDS

Hairdressers predict the cut and colour trends that will dominate in 2022. By Katie Wright

that will be huge this year, from bob cuts to pastel shades

hether it’s a colour refresh or a dramatic cut, transforming your tresses is brilliant way to ring in the new year and boost your

confidence. If you’re wondering what’s fashionable in the hair world right now, we’ve got good news. According to stylists and colourists, this year we’ll be seeing the evolution of soft, retro-inspired cuts and customisable colours, as well as the return of some classic styles and flattering fringes. Here, six hair pros share their 2022 trend predictions…

BOLD BOBS Sharp and chic bobs will be back in a big way, predicts Belle Cannan, co-founder Salon Sloane: “Oozing French-girl cool, a bob bluntly cut to the jawline or down to the collar bone is versatile on all face shapes. Style poker straight, or slightly tousled with undone waves and precise middle partings.” 74 06 M AAPRRCIHL 22002 22 2

Sonia Evans, senior stylist at Charles Worthington Salons, agrees that “Parisian-style blunt bobs with sweepy bangs” will be popular. “This style typically suits heart or long face shapes, but don’t be afraid to adjust the length to where is more flattering to you.” Also feeling the continental cool vibes, designer stylist at Live True London Natalia Vera recommends the ‘Italian bob’ cut: “It’s a short bob that reaches more or less to the lips, a length that gives the face a very youthful appearance. It’s a very versatile cut that looks great on any woman, regardless of hair colour, facial shape or age.”

WARM TONES “We have seen a general ‘warming’ of hair colour over the last year, with less bleached and bold colour tones, and this will continue into 2022,” says Sam Hillerby, hair stylist at John Frieda Salons. “We can expect to see lots of soft butter blondes, caramel fudge, spiced cinnamon and rich chocolate browns – a very indulgent, comforting line-up of colour.”

“We have seen a general ‘warming’ of hair colour over the last year, with less bleached and bold colour tones, and this will continue into 2022,” says Sam Hillerby, hair stylist at John Frieda Salons.

In terms of colour application, balayage (placement of highlights by hand) and ombre will “still be in favour in 2022, but these will have a slight makeover, with brunettes integrating spiced coppers and caramel fudge tones, whilst blondes will enhance their colour using more buttery tones.”

bangs’ (to borrow the American term) now, it’s all about “grown-out fringes that frame the face, shorter in the middle and longer on the sides”, says Barron-Hough. “This style is great if you’re not ready for a full fringe, but would like a change. Shorter pieces frame the face, are beautiful on all hair textures and easy to maintain – this suits everyone and is low maintenance.”

BESPOKE BRUNETTES Christel Barron-Hough, founder and creative director of Stil Salon declares 2022 “the year of the brunette”. Taking inspiration from the natural worlds, the ‘restore’ colour trend is all about calm brown tones “from natural beige through to rich brunette.” This look can be adapted to suit any complexion, Barron-Hough says: “The key is to layer tones to make it look natural and glossy. For high shine, it’s best to opt for a gloss service, as that will darken the hair but add lots of sheen and vibrancy.”

FACE-FRAMING COLOUR An evolution of the balayage technique, faceframing colour combines a base shade with “highlights or vivid colours that create contrast” around the face, says Paco Latorre, creative director at Live True London. “For example, we can do a chocolate brunette base with a platinum or warm blonde face-frame. Or in a copper version, doing the face-frame more chunky with a gold blonde or a vivid wine colour.”

PASTEL HUES

“Now, it’s all about “grown-out fringes that frame the face, shorter in the middle and longer on the sides”, says Barron-Hough

Beyond classic colours, expect to see “a sense of liberation, with pastel hues such as spun sugar, daffodils, palest pink and vibrant purple, mixed and matched with saturated bold hues like harbour blue, pink flamingo and skydive blue”, says Barron-Hough. “This trend looks great when it’s mixed with lots of blonde for contrast.” Evans predicts “creative colours like dusty rose pinks to be hot for 2022” with pastel tones used to enhance blonde or soft brunette shades: “You could opt for panelling pieces for a more discreet look. These can also be placed underneath your hair for a lower maintenance option.”

SOFT FRINGES Following last year’s Seventies-inspired ‘curtain APRIL 2022 47

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

I WANT MY EARS PINNED BACK...

innaplasty or otoplasty is a cosmetic procedure to correct or alter the shape of absent ear folds, large lobule or both. Any cosmetic procedure is a crucial decision in your life - it is essential to know what you need to consider before contemplating getting pinnaplasty. Why do adults seek pinnaplasty procedure? In my practice, adults will request ear surgery if they have been thinking of ear pinning surgery for a long time, and it had been affecting their self-confidence. Women usually tend to seek pinnaplasty as it sometimes restricts their hairstyle. Is pinnaplasty a safe procedure? Pinnaplasty as such is a safe procedure with very low complication and revision surgery rate. The procedure

THE DETAILS Private Secretary info@entsurgeonclinic.co.uk 07494914140

Practices at four facilities

Mr Gaurav Kumar

Consultant Ear Nose Throat Surgeon entsurgeonclinic.co.uk

itself takes 1 to 2 hours as a day case; this means you can go home the same day. The procedure is done by cut behind the ear and surgeon puts corrective sutures which places the ear in the new position. You have a head bandage for a week to keep your ear folded in the new location, protect from trauma while the ear is healing and prevent infection. How do people feel after pinnaplasty procedure? I offer pinnaplasty as well as rhinoplasty to patients in my practice. Most of these patients are in the age group of 18-30 and appearance is crucial to them. I feel immense pleasure and pride to watch patients journey from who may be shy and unhappy because of the shape of their ears to a person who is more confident about their appearance.

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FASHION,&HEALTH FASHION BEAUTY& BEAUTY

THE BIGGEST

These are the hottest catwalk-inspired looks of the season, says Katie Wright.

SPRING BEAUTY TRENDS

he spring/summer fashion season is upon us, and while it might not be warm enough to bust out the shorts and sandals yet, it’s fun to look ahead to the outfits we’ll be wearing soon, inspired by the SS22 catwalks. It’s also time to get excited about all the hot new hair and make-up looks created backstage at the shows, and how we can work them with our wardrobe this season. From retro-inspired tresses to edgy eyeliner and dramatic lipstick, These are the top trends to know about now…

‘Fendace’ (the Fendi-Versace collaboration show) rocked Y2K locks with, of course, a middle parting (side partings are so 2010s)

Y2K HAIR

Hair stylists got creative backstage at the shows, crafting all kinds of cool twists and plaits. There were long, rope-like braids at Erdem, face-framing baby braids at Altuzarra, and pigtail twists at Rejina Pyo.

Back in the early 2000s when GHD hair straighteners first hit the scene, glossy, pokerstraight hair was all anyone wanted. Models at Stella McCartney, Chanel and 25 20 2 AAPPR R II L L 2200222 2

NOUGHTIES MAKE-UP Noughties-inspired clothing was massive on the SS22 runways and so was make-up from the era, with metallic eyeshadow at Anna Sui and Tom Ford, and shimmery lips at KNWLS. High-shine gloss was another 2000’s throwback, slicked on models’ pouts at Victoria Beckham, Dolce & Gabbana and Blumarine.

BRAIDS

“Noughties-inspired clothing was massive on the SS22 runways and so was make-up from the era, with metallic eyeshadow at Anna Sui and Tom Ford, and shimmery lips at KNWLS”

ART ATTACK Not necessarily a trend you’ll want to recreate exactly as seen on the catwalks, colourful, avantgarde make-up made a splash at several shows. Nars make-up artist James Kaliardos created incredible starburst-shaped designs at Rodarte, there were rainbow motifs at Paul & Joe, and neon ears (yes, ears) at Chet Lo. The placement of these uber-brights might be a bit much for everyday wear, but a sunset-hued smoky eye or wash of fuchsia blush will elevate your summer look.

DRAMATIC EYELINER The make-up equivalent of the LBD, razor-sharp feline flicks adorned eyes at Givenchy, Dior, Valentino and more. At the Chanel haute couture show, a dramatic double wing was created with a combination of

eye pencil and shadow, while Giambattista Valli took it one step further with a triple liner look.

HAIR ACCESSORIES It’s not just about how to style your hair this spring, it’s about how you accessorise it. Take your cue from Versace with a Nineties-style headscarf, or select a bold floral corsage like the ones seen at Rixo and Yuhan Wang. Add sparkle to an up-do by stacking a bunch of bejewelled clips and slides, like models at Simone Rocha.

GRUNGE GLAM

“Take your cue from Versace with a Nineties-style headscarf, or select a bold floral corsage like the ones seen at Rixo and Yuhan Wang”

A distinct contrast to all that summery colour, some designers went to the dark side for spring, with smudgy smoky eyes and heavily stained lips. Deep berry-toned lips with a glossy finish gave us grungy-glam vibes at Supriya Lele, Coach and Mark Fast. A PA RPI R L I L2 0220 22 2 521 2 3

FASHION,&HEALTH FASHION BEAUTY& BEAUTY

Claudia Winkleman’s ultimate beauty essentials The Strictly presenter reveals her hair and make-up must-haves. By Katie Wright.

LIP BALM Glossier Coconut Balm Dotcom, £10 “I love any lip salve. I love – what’s this one that I just used? Glossier. Unbelievable. This is coconut. I just put it on and I was like, ‘Oh, it’s like being on holiday’.”

LIPSTICK MAC Cremesheen Lipstick in Bosom Friend, £18.50 “I love MAC. Fleshpot lipstick is the only thing I’ll use,” Winkleman said when we spoke, but the shade was discontinued shortly after. However, Bosom Friend is a similar pale pink shade.

EYESHADOW Charlotte Tilbury Luxury Palette The Rock Chick, £40 “Charlotte Tilbury is a goddamn genius. She’s a genius. I love her Rock Chick eye palette.”

EYELINER

sked about her trademark make-up look – bronzed skin, heavily lined eyes and a pale pink lip – Claudia Winkleman is characteristically self-deprecating. “The girl who does my face [make-up artist Debbie Dannell], because of the way I like it, really doesn’t get a lot of work because of me,” the Strictly host tells me, on a Zoom call from her London home. “Because they ask, ‘Who do you do?’, and she goes, ‘Claudia’, and they’re like, ‘The one that’s bright orange with the black and the white…?’” Still, the busy mum – Winkleman and her husband Kris Thykier have three children: Jake (19), Matilda (15) and Arthur (10) – isn’t about to change her signature style any time soon, and has huge respect for the pros who work their magic before she steps in front of the camera. “I’m rubbish at doing my own make-up, because I’m impatient and short-sighted,” says Winkleman, who turned 50 in January. “But when a make-up artist does that highlight thing? You look like you might have just gone on a big walk – you know what I mean? It’s just there, the little rosy cheek… I love having my face done!” And when it comes to buying cosmetics herself, the TV and radio presenter, who is also an ambassador for Head and Shoulders, knows exactly what she likes. Here, Winkleman runs down her hair, make-up and fragrance favourites…

Rimmel London Soft Kohl Kajal Eyeliner Pencil, £2.99, Boots “I love Rimmel. They’ve got a black kohl, that’s bloody good.”

MASCARA Guerlain Maxi Lash Extra Volume Lash Black, £28, John Lewis “Sali Hughes, who’s a genius beauty writer, I said to her, ‘What’s the best mascara in the world?’ She said Guerlain Maxi Lash. You’ve never ever tried anything like it in your life! It’s bang for your buck. Unbelievable.”

SHAMPOO Head & Shoulders Deep Cleanse Itch Prevention Anti Dandruff Shampoo, £6, Boots “Head and Shoulders is the only thing I will ever use on my head. Even when they fire me, that’s absolutely fine, I don’t mind, I totally get it, they can find somebody new, but I will never use a different shampoo. I love their Deep Cleanse range. Oh my god, there’s one that smells of mint – it’s like giving your head a cuddle.”

PERFUME Yves Saint Laurent Black Opium Eau de Parfum, from £57, Escentual “The only perfume I ever wear is Yves Saint Laurent Black Opium. I would say it’s possibly because I’m 50, I’m quite old, but I am loyal. You know when you find your thing? I just stick with it.” 25 22 0 AAPPR R II L L 2200222 2

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FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Spring beauty

ften, backstage beauty at the four major fashion weeks is all about pushing boundaries and letting makeup artists’ creative juices flow, with bold, daring looks. But at the spring 2021 shows, the overall mood was somewhat more subdued, which isn’t surprising when you think about it. “I believe there’s a return to classic looks on the runway right now, that is translating to the streets because we tend to gravitate to what’s familiar during a time of crisis,” says make-up artist Kimberly Crawford. That’s why there was an abundance of black eyeliner and lipstick in classic red and pink shades on the catwalks. “History repeats itself, plain and simple,” says make-up artist Jon Gregory. “Marilyn Monroe,

54 APRIL 2022

Make-up artists tell Katie Wright why we’re seeing a return to timeless techniques.

with her iconic red lip, beauty mark, and jet black liner. It’s a look that worked for her, so why would it not work for someone else? If it’s not broke, don’t fix it.” Here, our beauty gurus explain how to achieve the modern classic look for spring.

AUDACIOUS LIPSTICK BETTE, £26, AVAILABLE FROM NARS.

BLACK EYES As seen at Chanel, Dior, Chloe, Valentino and many more, sharp feline flicks and smoky black shadow looks dominated at the SS21 shows. “The focus is on the eyes more than ever, with modern shapes to a wing or smoky eye,” says Crawford. “I’m seeing people making more graphic or even rounder shapes with the liner, and paring it with cuts in the brows or fluffy brows.” Make-up artist Summer Miller says: “The great thing about these classic looks is that they still

POWDER KISS LIPSTICK DEVOTED TO CHILI, £20, AVAILABLE FROM MAC

CRUSHED SHINE JELLY STICK TAHITI, £18.75, AVAILABLE FROM BOBBI BROWN

“From slashes of scarlet at Balmain and Hermes to darker hues at Rodarte and Roksanda, there was a glut of matte red lippie looks”

“The nude matte lip is finally giving way to a red or pink lip, because women, when they are in a situation where they can remove their face masks, want a bold lip,” says Crawford. What makes the look modern this season? “The edges are softer and not so sharp,” she continues. “And it’s paired with glowing skin with minimal coverage and concealer where needed.”

allow us to add some twists to them. For instance, a crisp black liner can easily be modernised by adding a coloured liner in the bottom lash line.”

RED LIPS From slashes of scarlet at Balmain and Hermes to darker hues at Rodarte and Roksanda, there was a glut of matte red lippie looks. “The beauty industry is always changing, and today’s beauty world is all about inclusion,” says Gregory. “Marilyn may be known for the classic red lip, but that look can be created on any and every skin tone.” You don’t have to stick to one shade, either, he says: “To amp up a classic red lip, I line the lips with a deeper cool-toned red. Then in the centre, I reach for an orange/red shade. Blend them together and you have a perfect red lip with dimension.” Miller adds: “A bold red lip can be transformed by popping some glitter on top. The possibilities are endless.”

PURE COLOR ENVY SCULPTING LIPSTICK IN REBELLIOUS ROSE, £28, AVAILABLE FROM ESTEE LAUDER

LES 4 OMBRES MULTI EFFECT QUADRA EYESHADOW BLURRY GREY, £47, AVAILABLE FROM CHANEL

HOT PINK LIPS The Tom Ford show always offers a fabulous beauty look and this season, it centred around glossy fuchsia lips, a shade also seen at Versace and Bora Aksu. A PARPI RLI L2 02 20 22 1 5154 7

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

THE KENSINGTON WING T

“To ensure the safety of women and their birth partners, The Kensington Wing have important infection control procedures for staff and visitors to adhere to, but remain welcoming to your chosen birth partner for all stages of your pregnancy, birth and postnatal stay”

56 APRIL 2022

he Kensington Wing is the dedicated private maternity unit at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, providing women with around-the-clock clinical care, comfortable en-suite private rooms and hospitality services. Being located in the heart of Chelsea and Westminster Hospital - one of the UK’s safest hospitals - the safety and wellbeing of mother and baby are reassuringly supported at all times. The Kensington Wing is immediately located next to the hospital’s outstanding and newly expanded Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and a consultant anaesthetist remains on site at all times, 24/7, dedicated to the needs of women on the Kensington Wing. In these uncertain times, expectant parents can have additional anxieties or concerns about childbirth or going into a hospital. To ensure the safety of women and their birth partners, The Kensington Wing have important infection control procedures for staff and visitors to adhere to, but remain welcoming to your chosen birth partner for all stages of your pregnancy, birth and postnatal stay. Your individual room and en-suite facilities are a haven in these times and the catering and hospitality team ensures your stay is relaxing as well as safe. On the Kensington Wing the consultant obstetricians, midwives, nurses and maternity support workers provide care as a team. And are delighted to offer both consultant-led and midwife-led maternity packages. The Kensington Wing’s highly experienced team of midwives welcome enquiries from prospective women and the opportunity to discuss midwifeled care in more detail. These ‘meet the midwife’ sessions are always a relaxed and special time to

talk and discover more without any obligation. For those women who are appropriate for midwife-led care, the team provide full support throughout your pregnancy and the midwifery team are available 24 hours seven days a week for advice or concerns throughout your pregnancy, birth and postnatal stay. The consultant-led care package allows you the choice of one of our experienced consultant obstetricians to personally guide you through your pregnancy and birth. Your consultant provides continuity and individualised expertise throughout your journey. They build a relationship with you and your partner through the antenatal period to give you confidence to birth safely with them in line with your birth preferences. They remain to support you through the postnatal period including your 6 week postnatal check. All consultants are available to meet you and your birth partner without any obligation. The Kensington Wing enquiry team are always happy to support with these arrangements and answer any questions. If you would like to talk to one of the team, call 020 3315 8616, email chelwest.kensington@nhs.net or visit our website thekensingtonwing.co.uk

FASHION, FA S H I O N &HEALTH B E AU T Y& BEAUTY

NEUTRAL TONES Want to create a bit of calm with your clothes? Prudence Wade finds out how.

LONG TEDDY COAT IN TAN, £44.99 (WAS £59.99); COATED FRANKIE JEANS IN BLACK, £19.50 (WERE £26); ANALISA POINT BOOTS IN BLACK, £24.50 (WERE £35); DOROTHY PERKINS

MARL WIDE LEG TROUSERS IN KHAKI, £27.99 (WERE £39.99), TOPSHOP

n turbulent times, fashion can be a comforting and uplifting presence in our lives. What we wear can provide an escape from the craziness of modern life – and this sparks plenty of trends, like 2020’s newfound love of loungewear. Now, the latest style trend to sweep Instagram is a particularly calming one, as it goes all-in on neutrals. Extreme, meme-worthy fashion – like miniature handbags and supersized hats – have a time and place, but what if you want your clothes to be more of a soothing balm? That’s where neutrals come in. Don’t be fooled into thinking it’s just about boring beige clothes though, because the options with neutrals are actually endless. Cream, camel, sand, stone, oatmeal – each shade is unique and has its own fashionable ID.

1 BR 5 68 8 AFPE R I LU A2 R 0Y 2 22 0 2 1

The coolest way to wear this trend is all about extreme matching. This means going head to toe in a camel jumper, coat, trousers and scarf – the works. Not everything has to be exactly the same shade (after all, that would require far too much effort for what is meant to be a calming trend) – as long as you’re in the neutrals colour spectrum, you’re set. Looking to give highlighter colours a bit of a break and opt for soft and soothing instead? Feast your eyes on the best ways to wear neutrals this season…

COMFY COATS At its core, this trend is about cosiness and comfort – and that’s why teddy coats in tans, creams and buttermilks have stormed Instagram. These are the kind of coats you can throw on over your loungewear and be ready for the outdoors. Choosing a lighter colour – instead of grey or black – gives the look a more modern and chic edge, but the fluffy material means you still feel cocooned. Teddy coats can be engulfing, so if you want to sharpen up your outfit, pair with skinny trousers and chunky biker boots.

CREW NECK IVORY CHUNKY KNITTED CARDIGAN, £27 (WAS £55), OLIVER BONAS

BORG MAXI BELTED COAT IN BUTTERMILK, £63.99 (WAS £79.99), TOPSHOP RIBBED JERSEY LOUNGE LONG SLEEVE TOP IN WHITE, £39.50; RIBBED JERSEY LOUNGE JOGGERS IN WHITE, £45, OLIVER BONAS

SWEATSHIRT IN TAN, £25; JOGGERS IN TAN, £28, AVAILABLE SOON FROM MISS SELFRIDGE

ADELINE CABLE KNITTED CARDIGAN, £99, HUSH

TASTEFUL TROUSERS

LUXE LOUNGEWEAR Let’s face it: loungewear isn’t going anywhere. We’ve all had a taste of wearing comfortable clothes 24/7, and now it’s hard to be interested in anything that doesn’t have an elasticated waist. Luckily, loungewear has well and truly evolved into something you wouldn’t mind being seen in – either on Zoom or, at some point, IRL.

NATTY KNITWEAR Chunky cardigans are back in style, thanks to popstar Taylor Swift. To celebrate the release of her album Folklore last year and the lead single Cardigan, Swift started selling a chunky, cable-knit button-up as part of her merchandise. She sent them to all her celebrity friends, sparking a craze for cardies that’s still going strong. Again, it seems we’re all searching for a bit of comfort in our fashion – so anything that’s warm, soft and cocooning will fit the bill.

“Chunky cardigans are back in style, thanks to popstar Taylor Swift. To celebrate the release of her album Folklore last year and the lead single Cardigan, Swift started selling a chunky, cableknit button-up as part of her merchandise”

While many of us embrace the loungewear trend with open arms, some might miss the days of wearing real trousers. Luckily, it doesn’t seem like zips and buttons have been completely banished just yet. A pair of loose, chic trousers in a subtle colour is the perfect way to ease yourself back into proper pants. They’re not as intense as a pair of jeans, and they’re a grown-up way to wear the neutrals trend. Pair with a chunky knit in a similar colour, French-tucked at the waist to give the silhouette a bit of shape. CO-ORD TROUSERS IN CAMEL, £32; CO-ORD WRAP JUMPER IN CAMEL, £26; ANIMAL SKATER SHOES IN BLACK, £38, NEXT

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MEDIA SAI�ES EXECUTIVES FlSH MEDIA GROUP

We are the proud publishers of this high quality group of magazines and are looking for two experienced telephone and face to face sales executives. We pay a high basic plus uncapped commission, on-going training and a real development to managing your own group of magazines. You must be enthusiastic, outgoing, confident and above all you must be able to sell. If you can really sell and want to be part of our expansion programme call Patrick Smith on 07932 608797. To see the quality of our magazines and portfolio visit www.thelifemagazines.com

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HOUSE &

GARDEN – Keep it local for everything house and home – IMAGE: ORIGIN

HOUSE & GARDEN

Brave New World SS22 Interior Trend Report Anna Howell, Chaplins Interiors Editor

hey say that you can’t keep a good man down. Nor, it seems, can you keep a trend from flourishing. For in spite of all the global skulduggery, the mood amongst designers is shifting — away from the safe shores of minimalism and in search of something more spirited. Among the cornucopia of mood-boosting styles are floor lamps that look like marbles. And the classics as you’ve never seen them. For the era of bold, brazen living is back. And it couldn’t have come sooner.

Unlocking the power of play Take a quick look at the media landscape and you’ll notice a flourishing new genre all about failure. There is Elizabeth Day’s How To Fail podcast. And the new book On Failure by the School of Life. But no matter which medium you favour the 62 APRIL 2022

message is always the same. It’s ok to err and make mistakes. Because, well, it might just set you on a new, more interesting course. The poster boy for such thinking is scientist Andre Geim whose playful “Friday Night Experiments” lead to the discovery of graphene and a rather unexpected Nobel Prize. It’s with similar abandon that designers have begun concocting bold new forms for everyday things. A floor lamp that looks like a snow globe. Or else a sofa shaped like an iceberg. The best part about these designs is that they tend to go where other styles can’t. The VL Studio Floor Lamp, for example, fits perfectly well on a bookcase. While the Albero Bookcase by Poltrona Frau can also serve as a bonafide room divider. It comes back to a maxim that many a startup has used to try and help canalise breakthroughs:

What would this object look like if it was easy? Free from any idea of form or function that has tethered it in the past?

The classics reloaded This season, not even the classics could escape this whimsical impulse with serendipitous new finishes being unveiled on everything from Le Corbusier’s LC6 Table to Flos’ 265 Wall Light. The desire seems to be less about reinvention and more an investigation into how we can make these works as fresh as possible — including updating any lacquers so that they tread more lightly on the Earth. It’s a theme that’s been widely explored at Danish design house Fritz Hansen as they prepare to celebrate their 150th anniversary with a roster of new-look styles. Among our favourites are

the Fri and Ro Lounge Chairs — complete with speckled new bouclé upholstery that celebrates the kaleidoscopic colours found in nature.

Heritage brands step out out For some brands, the edict of a brave new world meant swapping the sanctuary of the lounge for the lushness of nature. Unshackled from their usual context, they promise to help us live in the garden with new comfort and flair, with options to sit among the clouds at Gubi, or discover a Secret Garden with Poltrona Frau. Many of the pieces have also been specifically designed to be used indoors, too — symbolising the final erosion of any boundaries between indoors or out. The best so far include the Bohemian ‘72 Lounge collection, as well as the perennially popular Panton Dining Chair.

Design goes full circle The last story is one we’ve been tracking ever since 2017. Call it what you will, curves are everywhere. And they’re not just restricted to soft furnishings, either. Amid the cornucopia of sinuous styles are loopthe-loop dining chairs. Sweeping desks. And even the odd circular bookcase. Part of the impetus for this sumptuous styling is almost certainly traceable to all the undulating shapes being explored in the Metaverse. For whether it’s fashion, furniture or a Charlotte Taylor render, hard edges are out — and our homes are all the more hypnotic for it. chaplins.co.uk APRIL 2022 63

HOUSE & GARDEN

[NEWS]

INTERIORS SPRING ENTRANCE A fantastic first impression for your visitors and guests, a wellplaced wreath is also a lovely feature to welcome you back home. We’re proud to offer a stunning collection of Spring wreaths, in a range of floral and colourful designs that are just perfect to see in the new season. They also make a fantastic Easter decoration, too. dibor.co.uk

BOTANICAL BEAUTY As more of us find comfort in nature, it’s the perfect time to bring the outside in. Choose a sofa, chair or footstool in an earthy green tone such as moss, olive, khaki or teal and add botanical prints to create your own urban jungle. theloungeco.com

FABULOUS FLOORING

TROPICAL TOUCH Introduce an exotic touch to interiors with some tropical treats from där lighting. The newest member of the pack is the Zira Monkey Table Lamp framed in gold or silver. darlighting.co.uk 2 L 22 002222 6 44 8 AAPPRRII L

Flooring can make or break a design scheme and when it comes to Mid Century styling, a wood floor can make all the difference. Choosing a classic oak tone as the authentic foundation to a Mid Century scheme will bring all the elements together, adding coherence and character. woodpeckerflooring.co.uk

RECLAIMED VINTAGE Driven by nostalgia, this on-trend industrial aesthetic is ideal for urban lover. These designs from Homescapes will complement inner-city inspired schemes effortlessly, and can be used throughout the entire home. homescapesonline.com

HOUSE& &PROPERTY GARDEN HOME

Spring forward with Origin

pring is finally here and the sun is shining. Traditionally, this time of year signals the beginning of pool season, where all over the country people start to prepare their pools and gardens for the upcoming summer months. However, when you live in the UK you know sun is not always a certainty, even in the summer! An Origin indoor swimming pool can make it can feel like summer all year round and provide limitless fun, entertainment and swimming. As we think about moving forward into the warmer months, a lot of us will be spending more time with family and in the garden. Doesn’t it make sense to release the potential of unused parts of your garden and maximise the space you do have? If our recent experiences have taught us anything it’s that having a place in our homes where we can go to switch off, relax and have fun is really important. An indoor swimming pool could be that place for you and your family. Origin specialises in creating award-winning pools that can be completely tailored to you and your family’s needs, whether you plan on using your indoor pool for fun, fitness, or even both!

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Whatever you want to achieve, Origin will help you take the steps to create your ultimate swimming pool and pool house. We all know the importance of exercise when it comes to maintaining a healthy lifestyle and swimming is one of the few physical activities that benefits people of all ages. Swimming is an amazing activity with multiple advantages including building endurance, muscle strength and cardiovascular fitness but it also heavily benefits

originpools.co.uk @originpoolsuk 01895 453995 info@originpools.co.uk

our mental health too. It improves quality of sleep and reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression. Having time in the pool everyday gives you the space to work through any stress or worries, in fact the movement of water over your body creates a massaging sensation which encourages you to relax. Just being in water increases blood flow to the brain and releases endorphins, boosting your brain health and overall mood. A home swimming pool will provide you with the resources to feel these benefits on a daily basis, creating a better lifestyle for the whole family to enjoy. Origin believe owning a pool is about more than the pool itself, it’s about the lifestyle you’re choosing for yourself. In order to truly get the most of your swimming experience, your pool house needs to be well thought out and designed with your goals in mind. You’ll have ideas about the way you want your pool to look and how it will improve your daily life. Origin will work with you to create a swimming pool design that suits your

home, family and budget. They’ve been building award-winning pools for over 40 years and learnt early on that every pool is unique. The process of designing and building a pool house is unlike any other building project as it requires all of the specialist areas to be integrated into a consolidated design from the start. By creating a new social hub in your home you can ensure your pool season never ends.

“Origin believe owning a pool is about more than the pool itself, it’s about the lifestyle you’re choosing for yourself”

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GARDEN HHOUSE O U S E && G ARDEN

2022 Interior Summer Trends Olivia Crosher, Interior Designer, Naturewall, shares her top predicted trends for the summer of 2022.

“Green colour palettes are now a firm styling anchor to many interior schemes” SELF-SPACES ‘Self-care has become a big focus, and as such so have spaces dedicated to mindful moments. Whether it’s turning the spare room into a hobby area or a cosy corner that imitates a spa-like experience, the celebration of wellbeing has never been more popular. This new revolution makes use of all those little nooks, bathrooms, and previously hidden gems the home has to offer.’

ACCENT ACADEMIA ‘The combination of maximalism and culture has brought a romanticised trend of English eccentricity. Influenced by deep nature and dark wood furniture with intricate details and carvings.’

GORGEOUS GREENS ‘From olive to sage, eucalyptus to mint, green is a harmonious colour that is continually trending and evolving. Green colour palettes are now a firm styling anchor to many interior schemes. Whether it’s through wall paint or layering with linens and throws, there is a consistent demand for this organic and extremely versatile colour’

TROPICAL TRENDS ‘Connect a space to nature by maximising light, plants and nature-inspired colours and materials. Inviting calming energy and bringing the outdoors in evokes a feeling of tranquillity. Biophilic design has taken over the interiors scene over the last few months’ Sustainable living is becoming more and more prevalent in the home and with so many ways to bring the outdoors in, the trend is evergrowing. Naturewall, are a premium alternative to traditional wall covering styling. Using the sustainable, 2 L 22 002222 6 68 4 AAPPRRII L

Scandinavian design, the collection boasts standout wood wall paneling, easy application 3D rustic panels, and self-adhesive planks. Simple to install, the wall coverings are an ideal, quick design upgrade, perfect for kitchens, bedrooms, bathrooms, and commercial spaces. All products are available from naturewall.co.uk

HOUSE & GARDEN

TOP TIPS FOR TRANSFORMING YOUR GARDEN

on’t put the garden design of your dreams off any longer. Now is the perfect time to begin creating a design plan so you can make the most of those heated summer months, while enjoying garden furniture pieces that are durable enough to last through winter. Of course, the tricky part of bringing your vision to life is knowing where to start. Well, we’re here to help you on that journey, taking you through garden ideas step-by-step so you can get a comprehensive plan that’s right for you, your personal tastes and your outdoor space.

CHOOSE DURABLE GARDEN SEARING Having a comfortable place to sit and marvel at the great outdoors is one of the most important places to begin with your garden design ideas. However, this outdoor environment can present new challenges. A lot of people think they must compromise on style and go rather minimalist in their approach because they assume that being open to the elements means that anything too fancy will end up having its shine taken just as the sun goes down. However, that doesn’t need to be the case. Rattan furniture, for instance, manages to balance its incredible durability, including waterproof furnishings, with a style worthy of any gorgeous space. Speaking of space, another great thing about rattan options is that they come in a variety of shapes and sizes, including sofas, chairs, sun

70 APRIL 2022

loungers and even day beds. This not only means that you can find a perfect option to fit into your garden, but also one versatile enough to make optimal use of your views and natural sunlight. Consider going for several smaller pieces of furniture instead of one or more larger options to work with a small garden design. Not only will this make positioning easier but will also mean that you don’t impose too much on the rest of you garden, as open spaces are amongst its most elegant virtues.

CREATE A WELCOMING DINING AREA Treat yourself and your guests to a luxurious outdoor dining experience by investing in pieces with built in features. Look for dining tables with a firepit to keep you warm all the way to sundown and beyond, or ice buckets to keep refreshments cool on those hot summer days. A rising table can also create different experiences, taking you from a light lunch to a sit-down evening meal. So, it’s not just how much room you have, it’s also the kind of dining experience you think you’ll want to enjoy in your garden. Position furniture near the kitchen where food can be easily transported, perhaps on the decking overlooking the rest of the garden. These are just suggestions, as we understand that all gardens are different, but you can see the

“All and post lanterns are practical and don’t take up any unnecessary room”

amount of options that are available to you. One thing we will say is that however you choose to go forward, picking a quality piece is vital to keeping your garden maintenance easy and fuss-free.

DISCOVER GARDEN LIGHTING It’s time to start bringing all of this together, to quite literally illuminate all the hard work you’ve put into your garden design so far. The importance of suitable garden lighting ideas is something that is so often overlooked but remains one of the most important in turning your garden design into a true showstopper. Lighting options include wall and post lanterns to table lights, hanging lights and more, with each having their own advantages. For example, wall and post lanterns are practical and don’t take up any unnecessary room. A table light can quite literally shine a spotlight on your dining area and make it feel truly special, while hanging lights are not only practical but can reach otherwise dark areas of your garden.

PREPARE FOR ALL WEATHER As lovely as your garden design looks, you are still exposed to the elements. While this might not seem that big of a problem in the scenic summer months, come winter, it will be an issue if you don’t take that into account as part of your garden design. There are also steps you can take to ensure that your garden can still be enjoyed in all weather. After all, even in the summer months, occasionally the British weather can let us down. Options for keeping you warm in your garden all year round include things like fire pits, which are the ideal solution for taking you from laid back daytime dining to evening entertaining by the fire. Other protective additions to your garden include parasols, storage boxes and covers to stop you, your items and furnishings from getting wet. All this adds up to a wonderfully lowmaintenance garden. You can’t predict the weather,

but you can ensure your gorgeous new garden is fully prepared for it.

COMPLETE THE LOOK Outdoor rugs and cushions are the perfect finishing touches for your garden design, helping to make the space feel cosy, warm and welcoming. Investing in an outdoors rug is a fantastic way to complete the look of your garden furniture set-up while adding a touch of additional comfort. Relax in style with garden throws and blankets in different colours and sizes or cosy up next to the fire pit with some garden scatter cushions for added comfort. Accessories allow you to easily switch up colours and themes with the changing seasons and trends. Co-ordinate your accessories with matching outdoor dinnerware for a polished, stylish finish.

TRY BEFORE YOU BUY Comfort is one of the most important factors when investing in your outdoor furniture, so it’s a great idea to try before you buy. Browsing in person will help you to get an idea of what shape and size is right for you and your outdoor space. Look for deep seats and plush cushions for ultimate comfort. At Fishpools, we’ve got an extensive range of outdoor furniture on display in our Waltham Cross showroom; so you can browse the collections and get a feel for what suits you best before you invest. fishpools.co.uk

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HOUSE & GARDEN KITCHENS & B ATHROOMS

Gorgeous Green in the Bathroom

ith Spring peeking around the corner, we’d like to share our green bathroom ideas to add freshness and a touch of funkiness to your home. But why is green so glorious? Green has been around since the beginning of time as one of the colours that represent the natural world. Green is associated with vegetation, vigour, and growth in ancient Egypt and was a symbol of regeneration, good health, and rebirth. The colour green also represented a person’s social rank and profession throughout the Middle Ages and Renaissance, and could only be worn by the wealthy. Today, green has many associations: life and renewal, nature and energy, fertility and growth, and sustainability and eco-friendliness to name just a few. 9 7 02 M AAPRRCI H L 2200222 2

SHADES OF GREEN In the 18th century, green pigments in interior design could contain the toxic chemical arsenate. This featured in the bedroom wallpaper of Napoleon Bonaparte, which some believe was the cause of his death. Thankfully, none of our beautiful green bathroom tiles are poisonous! There are so many gorgeous shades to choose from when considering green bathroom tiles.

Sage Green Bathroom Tiles If you’re looking for an earthy, subtle green, then look no further than sage green. This wonderful soft shade of green is inspired by the healing herb sage and brings a soothing tone to any room. Laurie Pressman, Vice President of the Pantone Color Institute says: “Harmonious and healing, the health-giving message conveyed by sage greens

Muted Green Bathroom Tiles Pictured above. For a slight twist on a traditional green, why not try this lovely muted shade from our Harlem range? It’s a little tricky to describe – think soft moss with an undertone of warmth. It’s just the colour to evoke feelings of wellbeing or help you get back to nature. Plus these tiles have a gradient in their design, to add interest as well as a soft splash of colour.

“Sage green is a versatile colour that will work well with a range of coordinating and contrasting hues, thanks to its neutral nature and undertones of grey and silver”

are ideally suited to this time. They enhance our emotional well-being and boost our spiritual health…” Sage green is a versatile colour that will work well with a range of coordinating and contrasting hues, thanks to its neutral nature and undertones of grey and silver. And sage is all the rage – it’s a tone that doesn’t seem to ever go out of style.

Emerald Green Bathroom Tiles If you’re looking for vibrant green bathroom tiles, then why not consider opulent emerald? This darker shade represents abundance, prosperity, and growth in nature, business, or within ourselves. Emerald colours can also help to create a lovely cosy sanctuary to relax in. For the ultimate in decadence, pair with metallic accessories, add black accessories or use white to really make this rich tone stand out. These deep green tiles can be used on their own or blended with other tiles from the Glamour range or used on their own as a striking statement.

of course, there’s always the option of just using a small section as a feature wall – the ideal touch in a shower.

Hexagonal Green Bathroom Tiles Impress your friends and family with the latest in trendy Hexagon wall tiles. Our Hex bathroom tiles offer the winning combination of deep greens and blues and are ideal for creating a stunning feature wall. These tiles simply ooze with energy and bring the feel of the seaside and coast into your home. Use as much or as little as you like, and pair with plain or hexagon tiles in white.

Scallop Green Bathroom Tiles Pictured below. Bring the beach to your home with these stunning scallopshaped green bathroom tiles. Their unusual scale shape and wonderful garden green tone will really stand out from the crowd, whether you use them on walls, floors, or both! If this garden green shade is too vibrant, they are also available in white and grey.

GREEN TILE SHAPES AND SIZES Make your friends and family green with envy with green bathroom tiles in a variety of shapes and sizes.

Mosaic Green Bathroom Tiles Mosaic tiles are a lovely addition to any bathroom to invoke the feeling of a relaxing spa or sanctuary. For a high impact effect, use bold green mosaic tiles in generous quantities, or how about a border or metallic green mosaics as a finishing touch? And A PMRAI R L C2H0 22 20 2 72 39 1

GARDEN HHOUSE O U S E && G ARDEN

JUST LAUNCHED

SEVENTIES SERIES A Design Collection of Stationery, Greeting Cards, Gift Wrap, Art Print and Notebooks

he decade that was far out and outta sight has landed at Storigraphic, with their ultra cool and hip Seventies Series. Inspired by a decade of adventurous prints, rich colour palette and unforgettable design, this exclusively designed collection features a series of arrestingly big and bold graphic patterns with a harmoniously intense use of deep colours, across wrapping papers + tags (£3.30), greeting cards (£2.90), A6 notebooks (£4) and limited edition art prints (£23). With more products coming soon, there is every reason to stay tuned (don’t drop out)! All Storigraphic products are produced in the UK, using FSC certified paper, recyclable (no glitter, foil, metallic ink, lamination), plastic-free and sustainably made using the smallest environmental footprint. Storigraphic is a paperware design studio and store, producing statement eco stationery, greeting cards, wrapping paper, gifts and accessories. All products are plastic-free, recyclable and sustainably made in the UK, with 5% of sales profit donated to homelessness charity, Crisis UK. storigraphic.com

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HOUSE GARDEN H O U S E && G ARDEN

Matthew Williamson

on being inspired by English nature for his new homes collection and his love of painting

Sam Wylie-Harris chats to the designer about his favourite pieces and why creativity is his happy place.

amous for his flamboyant fashions on the catwalk, bold designs and feather peacock prints, interior designer Matthew Williamson says his latest collection for John Lewis feels like a lovely tick. “If you were to say, ‘What would be your dream job?’ One would be the John Lewis collaboration because I think it really sort of cements what I’ve been trying to do for a few years. “It’s a solid proposition with a very respected, known brand,” says the Manchester-born designer. It’s been two years in the making, “So a reasonably long, very enjoyable, creative process for me,” notes Williamson. And it’s the largest designer homeware collaboration of its kind for the department store, with 90 artfully curated pieces spanning a variety of homewares, from cushions to bedding to mirrors and lighting – decorative, eclectic and joyful. “The brief was really open to be honest,” reflects Williamson. “Obviously, I’ve been in design my whole adult life, and fashion into interiors more recently.” He closed the chapter on his 20 year plus fashion career about seven years ago when he decided to take the leap and fully immerse himself in the world of interior design. “So there’s quite a lot of history,” he continues. “There’s a sort of rich pot if you like, and I think it’s that they [John Lewis] were drawn to, as they recognised it’s quite a different DNA to their DNA. I think they saw I could bring a much more decorative element to the John Lewis table, if you like,” he observes. The collection is inspired by the great British outdoors, but also further afield. The 50-year-old – who lives with his partner Joseph Velosa and their daughter Skye – in Mallorca, says he’s often drawn to different cultures and countries that have a very rich palette. “You know, ornate decoration, so strangely or not, I decided with this collection to stay rooted in the UK and therefore, look at what I started to say in my head was ‘doorstop design.’

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“So whether that be an English meadow or foraging in a hedgerow, or looking at a starlit sky at night, or the quintessential English country garden, all those very sort of English touch points of nature were my inspiration.” Despite being in Spain for the majority of lockdown, Williamson says, “I’m England born and bred, so it wasn’t too much of a leap to imagine. So yeah, an English-based design collection, but I did it in Spain.” Alongside beautiful blooms, signature peacock prints, butterflies and floral meadows to inspire and leave a lasting impression, there’s also a focus on woodland themes, hacienda-style textiles and exuberant touches such as leopard print and exotic bedding sets. “I’ve lived in Spain for six years now. So during that time, my work has definitely had a more shall we say, rustic approach. A more sort of authentic Spanish quality to it. “If you’re going to generalise I would say India, Spain and the UK are the three consistent places in the world I look to for inspiration. I love that melting pot of those three countries.” With the aim to create an artistic interplay between stand-out pieces and Williamson’s eclectic aesthetic, all the products (priced from £16 to £250) prompt a second look – and can effortlessly be introduced to existing schemes to elevate the every day, or by combining colour with comfort. “There’re two mirrors I love in particular, ” says Williamson. “One’s like a gilded peacock mirror. It’s sort of a gold frame. It’s pretty large scale and

“He closed the chapter on his 20 year plus fashion career about seven years ago when he decided to take the leap and fully immerse himself in the world of interior design.”

it has two ornately carved peacocks. So that’s a real statement piece that would elevate any space. It’s kind of grand, it’s a talking point. It’s a little bit whimsical – it’s definitely got a real character.” He says he also loves another mirror made out of a cast iron frame and finished in a glossy pillar box red. “It’s made up of a sort of arrangement of twigs, metal twigs, and it’s such a cool, contemporary, modern piece. So those two mirrors are definitely on my list of things I want to have myself.” “I’d probably say the lights as well. They’re these gorgeous dome, sort of spheres that you’d see in bars all around the world, quite classic glass domes. I reworked those into a mint green colouration and they’re also a favourite.” And as he points out, then there’s the bedding within the collection, as well as lots of cushions and quilts and so on. “I definitely would have one of those printed bed sets to enliven a bedroom.” Today, Williamson is slowly but surely building his portfolio and spends 50% of his time on interior design projects, commercial and domestic, and the other half designing homeware goods. “Whether that be wallpapers with Osborne & Little or various other licenced partners I have across the homeware ranges,” he explains. The designer has also recently returned as a guest judge on Interior Design Masters, and a recent addition to the brand is his beautiful artwork on his website and online boutique, Matthew Williamson Design, where he sells some of his paintings which he describes as, “Actually putting my paintbrush out as it were”. Like most creatives, he finds it difficult to switch off when it’s time to relax. “The switch off button is not an easy button for me to find.” admits Williamson. “Not good at it at all. So it’s a good job I love what I do, because cliché as it might sound, I guess I’m relaxed when I’m working. “I love painting. I have a studio in Spain where I suppose that’s not necessarily work but it would be to paint, you know, creativity is my happy place.” “So that’s going really well and I’m enjoying those pockets of time which are rare with a sixyear-old. But when I can get time, that’s what I do to sort of tune off from work, but I am really busy. And there isn’t much downtime.” The John Lewis + Matthew Williamson Homeware Collection is available now. A PARPI RL I L2 02 20 22 2 7275 7

HHOUSE O U S E &&GGARDEN ARDEN

FLOWER POWER NEW Spring Coloured Floral Wallpapers by Artist, Burcu Korkmazyurek

reators of made-to-measure wallpaper murals, Wallsauce.com is excited to introduce its new collection of spring coloured floral wallpapers by Burcu Korkmazyurek. One of the latest artists to join the Wallsauce. com designer team is Burcu Korkmazyurek. Burcu is an artist who creates beautiful botanical and creature motifs. She draws inspiration from different genres, centuries and artistic media which is evident in the style of her gorgeous artworks. Taken from a growing 35 piece collection, these custom-made spring inspired wallpapers are the perfect way to celebrate this cheerful time of year. The pretty meadow flowers and cottage style roses conjure up images of sunny buttercup fields scattered with fluffy lambs and baby rabbits. Not forgetting childhood memories of hunting for chocolate eggs in the garden! Rachel Kenny, head of the design studio at Wallsauce.com says: “When we first encountered Burcu’s beautiful designs, we felt like spring had arrived! Her talent in creating floral artwork is inspiring. She has achieved the perfect blend of strong colour with vintage style illustration. Her use of bold colours work perfectly to represent this time of year where budding flowers are fresh with strong shades and new life. The nature-inspired designs are a clear reflection of the ever-growing trend to bring the outdoors in – especially now that many are working from home.” Well known for its exceptional customer service, Wallsauce.com is always looking for the latest designs from artists around the world to adorn walls in homes, workplaces and venues. wallsauce.com

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GARDEN HHOUSE O M E & &P RO P E RT Y

SMALL

SPACE STYLE

It’s possible to live large despite sleeping small, says Luke Rix-Standing.

Bags and boxes are good for long-term storage, but slide-out clothes drawers are especially expedient, as they lessen the need for that other great space-snatcher, a large wardrobe.

or many of us, house space is a fiercely contested commodity, and you need to squeeze the most out of every square inch. But luckily there are plenty of clever tricks you can use to make this happen. Mirrors, multifunctional furniture and a recurring colour or pattern are all your friends. Here’s how to make even the smallest bedroom feel larger – without having to sleep on the sofa… Let there be light It’s the oldest rule in the book: Bright, breezy spaces feel looser, larger and lighter, so put your bed on the opposite wall from your windows and keep them clear of clutter. Thick, heavy curtains will help you keep warm in winter, but they will also protrude physically and visually into your room, so dress your windows with unobtrusive blinds or rollers instead. Under-bed storage is your friend Every square inch counts when you’re space saving, and there should be no room for monsters beneath the bed once you’ve finished economising.

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Make it a a virtue One person’s cramped is another person’s cozy, and a few soft furnishings can turn a poky shoebox into a snug den or bolthole. Think fuzzy blankets, chocolate box ornaments, warming lamps and lighting – anything you might associate with a comfy Scandinavian cabin on a cold winter’s day. Mirror, mirror Bedroom, entrance hall or downstairs loo – mirrors have long been number one on the list of domestic design tricks. They don’t add any physical space, of course, but they send light bouncing round the walls and can trick the eye into doubling a room’s depth. For the best brightening effects, place your mirror opposite a window and for the greatest sense of space, consider the wall opposite the door. Bed size matters We know, it’s so tempting to snap up an XXL king size and spend every night splayed out like a starfish, but if floor space is precious, your bed is the obvious place to seek savings. If you’re 6’4” and married, fair play; if you’re 5’3” and single, perhaps consider downsizing. Put your headboard to work Select the right design and your headboard can double as shelves for storage; a tabletop for

“Select the right design and your headboard can double as shelves for storage; a tabletop for ornaments; a rail for hanging clothes – anything really besides a useless wooden plank”

ornaments; a rail for hanging clothes – anything really besides a useless wooden plank. Think vertically Just as city centres maximise space by building upwards, so too can your bedroom. Think of a room in terms of volume, rather than surface area, and prioritise floor-to-ceiling units that can squeeze the most from every inch of your room. Add shelves atop wardrobes and cupboards, or just use them as storage space anyway. If you are investing in mirrors, make them full-length, and design your room to draw the eye upwards. Consider vertically-striped wallpaper, a different-coloured ceiling, and high-hung pictures and decor.

at least three of them, and they can easily turn into dead space. Consider anything with a right angle – tables, light fixtures, or wraparound, triangular shelving. Employ a feature wall Every room benefits from a statement centrepiece, and in a shoe-box bedroom it can hardly be the four-poster bed. Physical focal points may struggle to squeeze in, so instead opt for a visual one – a well decorated wall with an artwork, a photo collage, or simply a bold pattern.

“Think of a room in terms of volume, rather than surface area”

Choose furniture strategically Pick pieces that can serve multiple purposes, or at least do the job as efficiently as possible. Double up your desk and bedside table; pick a compact cabinet over an elaborate chest of drawers; investigate foldaway futons. Curate your colour scheme Lighter colours feel airier and more open, and there’s a reasons that whites, greys and varying shades of cream crop up again and again in the centrefolds of interior design magazines. From your paint job to flooring and furnishings, avoid darker colours that might lend a claustrophobic feel. Establish a theme It doesn’t take much for small spaces to feel disorganised, and giving your room a designed, curated feel brings a much-needed sense of order. It could be a colour or pattern – recurring on cushions, bed covers and wallpaper – or a simple motif. Declutter Minimalism is as fashionable as it is functional, and most bedrooms bear at least a few bulky burdens that would be better off down the charity shop. Do you really need that brick-sized Nokia with the first ever version of Snake, the box of expired medicines, or the tabletop popcorn maker you used once in 2015? Marshal your corners Corners are notoriously difficult to bring to heel, but unless you live in a lighthouse every room has NAOPVR E IMLB E2 R 0 2220 2801 9 5

GARDEN HHOUSE O U S E && G ARDEN

GOING FOR GREEN Three top tips for introducing green into interior schemes

ith the ongoing love of botanicals and nature-inspired interiors, green is one of the most coveted colours this season, and rightly so. Victoria Atkin shares some tips on how to introduce this colour crush into the home.

SMALL STATEMENTS “If you’re not ready to paint the walls or invest in a larger piece, try a smaller statement such as an emerald green footstool. Complement this rich jewel hue and add a touch of luxury with plush velvet and metallics.”

PICK PURPOSEFULLY “Use the colour with purpose. Green is in its element when placed in bright south-facing rooms; effortlessly creating an ethereal look. When adding it to a darker, north-facing room or those with a blueish hue, opt for warmer tones with complimentary contrasting colours, such as deep purples, to create a sophisticated feel.”

PICK THE PERFECT SPOT “Add a spot of green to areas where it can best reflect the tones of mother nature such as bay windows. It will draw the eye while seamlessly linking the indoors with the outdoors. Alternatively, add it to windowless rooms such as bathrooms to lighten and expand the space.” atkinandthyme.co.uk

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“If you’re not ready to paint the walls or invest in a larger piece, try a smaller statement such as an emerald green footstool”

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