Mayfair Life Magazine February 2014

MAYFAIR & ST JAMES’S LIFE

MAYFAIR LIFE & ST JAMES’S

ISSUE 57

FEBRUARY 2014

w w w. t h e l i f e m a g a z i n e s . c o m

w w w. t h e l i f e m a g a z i n e s . c o m

THE CHELSEA ANTIQUES FAIR

VICTORIA BECKHAM COMES TO MAYFAIR

DAVID BAILEY’S STARDUST

EDUCATION LIFE SUPPLEMENT

WWW.THELIFEMAGAZINES.COM THE QUALITY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2014

Invest in love this Valentine’s The noughties has seen an upsurge in demand for elite dating agencies. We delve into the popularity of such a personal extravagance with bespoke introducer Webb & Carter.

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A range of works from classic antique furniture to contemporary and modern pieces will go on show at the only internationally renowned event exclusive to members of the British Antique Dealers’ Association. Representing the UK’s leading specialists, it has built an unrivalled reputation for quality. This year the Fair, which is held in London’s most fashionable district, will see its exhibitors bring their best pieces to put on display. She already boasts an e-boutique and sells in luxury stores all over the world but it seems that’s not enough for Victoria Beckham. The designer has announced that she is to launch her first standalone store, which will open in London’s Dover Street, just a short walk from Old Bond Street, in the autumn. The store will be situated at number 36 - which is currently occupied by sporting store Orvis. This places Victoria at the heart of the capital’s fashion district. Movers were spotted carrying a Damien Hirst painting into the Beckham’s new mansion in Kensington, London. The seven foot painting of a pink heart embellished with butterflies is aptly titled “Daddy’s Girl” and is valued at £600,000., dwarfing a similar artwork commissioned by them for daughter Harper’s first birthday in July 2012. Hirst, who recently painted a minimal Mickey Mouse for charity, is a friend of David Beckham and the Beckham residence is home to many of his works. After last year’s successful re-launch, The Chelsea Antiques Fair will return to the Chelsea Old Town Hall twice in 2014. One of the highlights in every antiques lover’s diary, the Fair, which was established in 1950, prides itself on its boutique style set up with a great variety of traditional art & antiques and a time line up to mid 20th Century. This gives you just a small taste of exciting events & articles featured in this month’s issue...

Faye Manning

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Faye Manning Editor

PUBLISHED BY THE FISH MEDIA GROUP LTD, THE RIDINGS, WOODFIELD LANE, ESSENDON, HERTS , AL9 6JJ.

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www.thelifemagazines.com EDITOR Faye Manning EDITOR’S ASSISTANT Katie Miller SUB EDITOR Alex Lux FASHION EDITOR Rachel Gold SENIOR BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Vanessa Lane DESIGN & PRODUCTION Toni Perry ACCOUNT MANAGERS Sinead Sheil, Anita Hill, Nicola Drew SALES James Marshall DIRECTORS Rory Smith, Patrick Smith

Interior Design & Architecture

Welcome to our February issue...

refresh Architecture Chartered Architects Design and planning Building specification and regulation Construction project management

Interior Design Kitchens Bathrooms Livings Rooms Dining rooms Studies

revive

Bedrooms

invent Inspired architecture and outstanding interior design. Our designs are an expression of both contemporary and classical style; we offer architecture and interior design from a single room to a house extension or a complete house refurbishment. Whatever you wish for in terms of style, we have the experience and expertise to create it for you, combined with first class design and project management skills, which ensures that your project is a complete success. A turnkey solution for today’s discerning client. Our team of Chartered Architects & Interior Designers will inspire you with individually tailored and refreshing designs that will add value as well as style to your home. If we sound like a company you would like to work with please call for an initial consultation, it is free and without obligation, or visit our website to view our recent projects. T: 01372 221800 E: design@bicknell-interiors.co.uk www.bicknell-interiors.co.uk

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Ask the

EXPERTS Your guide to private maternity care at The Portland Hospital If you’re considering private maternity care, you’ll want to find out as much information as you can in order to make the best decision for you and your family. The Portland Hospital is London’s only private maternity hospital, and last year our dedicated midwives provided exceptional levels of care and support to over 1,700 mothers-to-be. They understand the questions and concerns that you’ll have at this important time, so this is their guide to help you make an informed choice on your maternity care. At The Portland Hospital, you’ll find a nurturing and supportive environment in which to welcome your baby into the world. Our team of world-class obstetricians and midwives can offer you and your partner control over how you want to give birth, supported by the highest standards of comfort, safety and clinical excellence.

Can I choose the type of birth I want? You can opt for either consultant-led care, where a consultant obstetrician looks after you during pregnancy and birth, or midwife-led care, where our small team of expert midwives support you throughout your pregnancy and delivery. Either way, you’ll develop a close relationship with the team in a welcoming and relaxed environment, where your care is tailored to your personal choices. All birthing options will be available to you where medically suitable, including water birth, natural delivery or caesarean section. And you’ll always receive one-toone midwifery care on the labour ward, supported by high staff-to-patient ratios of 1:4 during your antenatal and postnatal care. Throughout your pregnancy and delivery, our midwives will be on call 24 hours a day to offer advice and reassurance to both you and your partner.

Is pain relief readily available? You’ll have 24-hour access to a consultant obstetric anaesthetist who will administer epidurals and other types of pain relief as soon as you decide that’s what you want. Once you’re comfortable again, they’ll continue to monitor that it is working well for you until your baby is born.

What happens in an emergency? We are committed to the highest standards of safety and have a range of on-site emergency facilities, with three operating theatres for planned procedures and a dedicated emergency operating theatre on the labour ward. The latest data from the Royal College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology confirms our emergency caesarean section rate to be very low – just 6.2 per cent compared to the national NHS average of 11.6 per cent. A dedicated neonatal intensive care unit, special care baby unit and transitional care provision are all available for babies born from 30 weeks, alongside a highdependency unit for mothers who may require a higher level of monitoring. We have an excellent safety record and our rate of temporary admissions to intensive care is extremely low (just

Premium delivery packages start from £7,330

0.002 per cent, compared to the Royal College of Anaesthetists’ expected rate of 0.25 per cent), but on the very rare occasion when this might be necessary, you will be transferred to the adult intensive care unit at our sister hospital just around the corner.

What about aftercare? Following your baby’s birth, you’ll stay in one of our private en-suite rooms or exclusive suites. You can stay with us for as long as you need to – your package includes one night’s stay and we can arrange for additional nights if you would like to stay longer. Your partner is welcome to stay with you overnight, and you can both enjoy our full range of room services. Our team of midwives will look after you and help with breastfeeding and our nursery nurses can care for your baby while you get some well-earned rest between feeds. You’ll also be able to attend our postnatal classes.

What does the package include? Our delivery packages start from £7,330, and you don’t need private medical insurance. You can join the service at 12, 20 or 30 weeks of pregnancy.

Our midwife-led care package includes:

• all antenatal appointments with the midwife team • two consultations with a named consultant obstetrician • all routine ultrasound scans • all blood tests as routinely required • one-to-one midwife care during delivery • 24-hour consultant anaesthetist epidural services on site • 24-hour stay in hospital in an en suite room with the option to stay longer • facilities for your partner to stay overnight in your en suite room • consultation with a physiotherapist • a six-week postnatal check with a midwife.

Where can I find out more? The next step for most couples is to come and see our facilities for themselves. Located in central London, we are open for tours on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays, and are happy to answer any questions you may have.

To book your tour, call us now on

020 7390 8202 Or visit www.theportlandhospital.com to book your tour online.

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Editors Letter Ask the Experts

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Contents 9 Local Life, Arts & Events The Bada Antiques & Fine Art Fair 10 Victoria Beckham’s first designer store in Mayfair 12 David Beckham Buys £600,000 Damien Hirst Painting… 14 Country Living Spring Fair 16 Fashion Meets Fine Wine Courtesy of Corks & Couture 18 Private film screening hosted by legendary British actress Julie Walters 20 The Chelsea Antiques Spring Fair 22 The Ideal Home Show Returns for its 106th Year! 24 Bailey’s Stardust 26 Panasonic launch fashion forward Lumix GM1 camera 28 The Imagine Shop At Selfridges 30 The Affordable Art Fair 32 Education Learning your a,b,c’s Can you achieve anything you want? Fairley House Sydenham High Girls Get To The ‘Art’ Of Graffiti Debate Rosemead savours period of growth Fulham Pre Prep and Prep School Achieve Academic Excellence at Sinclair House School Music at Habs The role of the Head Teacher A community coming together House schools group

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Feature Planning for future career success Discover Your Perfect Cruise Experience Free tickets to A Place in the Sun Live Hand picked villas 100 years of Beverly Hills Luxury self catering with St Andrews on your doorstep

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Competition Win a luxury short break at Morton of Pitmilly Countryside Resort The at Home Experience at Llangoed Hall London’s property game Parking at Gatwick Airport It’s a Back to School Reunion at The Schoolyard in Wandsworth Kenwood House Restored The National Wedding Show

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Cover story Why people use dating agencies A truly magnificent setting awaits you at Temple Golf Club Griffin Gallery exhibition ‘Water + Colour’ The Gordon Ramsay Group Opens London House In Battersea’s Historic Square Size really does matter Coming up roses London Fashion Weekend

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Health & Beauty Dr Haus Triniti 3 High-Tech Facial Skin Treatments In 1 Session Healthy Balance Q&A A Hollywood smile is easily attainable Top 10 tips to help your kids eat more healthily Sloane Square Hypnotherapy, Victim release therapy I Think I’ve Found A Lump In My Breast... London’s finest wellness destination

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House & Garden Make an entrance! How to create a welcoming hallway An innovative approach to interiors Light up your home Retro Style Love Retro? Love Designer? John Bly: In the world of fine antiques Provenance Rules! Bespoke German Kitchens and Traditional English Furniture A reputation carved in stone Why choose The Wooden Floor Specialist this summer Nicolas Tye: Cedarwood Chiswick Auctions The Famous Auction On Your Doorstep

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Hampstead

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Contents

Antique & Craft

Emporium

vintage & antique quilts & shawls + antique furniture, ceramics & glass + jewellery - modern & fine, vintage & antique, studio & Modernist + Art Deco glass & lighting + new, vintage & antique buttons + dolls' houses, miniatures & toys + collectables & novelties + silver photo frames & fine crystal + greeting cards + designer clothing & women's cotton nightware + cashmere, wool & silk scarves, shawls & knitwear www.rogeroates.com + coffee & waffles at Tania's of Hampstead

floors & fabrics opening hours

Tues - Fri 10.30 - 5.50 Sat 10 - 6 London Showroom Sun 10.30 - 5.30 1 Munro Terrace, Riley 12Street, Heath Street Chelsea, London SW10 0DL

London NW3 6TE

telcopies - 020 7794 3297 For of our brochures please call 020 7351 2288

www.hampsteadantiqueemporium.co.uk

Hampstead's best-kept secret is out!

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The BADA Antiques & Fine Art Fair 19th – 25th MARCH 2014, THE DUKE OF YORK SQUARE, CHELSEA, SW3

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range of works from classic antique furniture to contemporary and modern pieces will go on show at the only internationally renowned event exclusive to members of the British Antique Dealers’ Association. Representing the UK’s leading specialists, it has built an unrivalled reputation for quality. This year the Fair, which is held in London’s most fashionable district, will see its exhibitors bring their best pieces to put on display. The finest furniture from across the centuries is represented. Godson & Coles are bringing a magnificent regency period specimen marble and carved giltwood centre table, English, circa 1820. The circular specimen marble top is profusely inlaid with 161 coloured stones in concentric rings, including imperial porphyry, granites, serpentines, alabasters and semiprecious stones, as well as marbles. The table comes from the estate of Dodie Rosekrans, the international society hostess, haute couture collector and fine arts supporter. The highest quality antique jewellery is a highlight of this year’s BADA Fair, with Sandra Cronan bringing an exceptional peacock feather necklace by Boucheron with Royal Russian provenance. Set with a sapphire, emeralds and diamonds, the feather is detachable and may be worn as a brooch or hair ornament. It is believed to have been made for, and purchased by, Grand Duke Alexis of Russia from Frédéric Boucheron in Paris in 1883 for 14,000 Francs. Anthea AG Antiques is bringing a 1940s pair of Burma ruby and diamond clips set in 18 carat gold and signed Tiffany & Co, an excellent example of 1940s jewellery. A range of exceptional paintings and drawings will also be on display. Walker’s Gallery is bringing Velsheda, just Astern of Astra, off the Needles, with Candida trailing Astern, an oil on canvas, work by John Stephen Dews (b. 1949), Britain’s most sought after living marine artist. The J-class yacht Velsheda was laid up in 1937 and re-launched after a complete rebuild in 1997. This subject is treated by Stephen Dews who 1 0 F E B R U A RY 2 0 1 4

shows the Velsheda during the heyday of the J-Class yacht races. A unique loan exhibition of rarely seen military portrait miniatures entitled In Love and War: The Story of the Military Miniature Portrait, will be hosted at the BADA Fair. Portrait miniatures flourished during the 16th to the 19th centuries. This exhibition of miniatures, all sourced from a private collection, focuses on the British military uniform and the language it speaks to those who understand it. There will also be a talk by Colonel Peter Walton, a retired British Army officer, who is a leading expert on soldiers’ dress and equipment This year’s Charity Gala Reception on Wednesday 19th March 2014, from 6 – 9pm will be in aid of the Neuroblastoma Society (SOC), helping to fight childhood cancer, and will be held in the Cellini restaurant. This year’s event promises to be the liveliest yet, with the charity committee planning a glamorous evening that looks likely to be full of surprises. Since its inception, the BADA Fair has helped to raise over £5 million for charity and it is delighted to be supporting NSOC this year. Absolute Taste at the Cellini Restaurant and The Duke of York Brasserie will be providing food and refreshments and the worldrenowned and family-owned champagne house Taittinger will once again be the Fair’s champagne sponsors. Absolute Taste has established itself as one of the leading catering and event design companies with an impressive portfolio of both national and international clients. The diverse set of businesses includes event catering and design, private aviation, motorsports, restaurants and cafes. Ticket Prices - £10 for a single ticket, £15 for a double. All tickets include a BADA Handbook and one re-entry pass per person. General information number - 0207 589 6108 www.bada-antiques-fair.co.uk or email enq@bada-antiques-fair.co.uk www.dukeofyorksquare.com

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Victoria Beckham’s first designer store in Mayfair Opening Autumn 2014

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he already boasts an e-boutique and sells in luxury stores all over the world but it seems that’s not enough for Victoria Beckham. The designer has announced that she is to launch her first standalone store, which will open in London’s Dover Street, just a short walk from Old Bond Street, in the autumn. The store will be situated at number 36 which is currently occupied by sporting store Orvis. This places Victoria at the heart of the capital’s fashion district. Along with her main collection, the new boutique will also house sister range Victoria Victoria Beckham, as well as accessories and denim. Her designs have proved popular with the likes of Beyonce and Gwyneth Paltrow. Up until now, Victoria’s chic clothing line and handbags have only been available online, in fashion outlets and department stores, but now her fans will only have to take a trip to Dover Street in order to browse her latest collections. This latest move in her fashion career comes as no surprise, as the 39-year-old star has made no secret of her desire to set up shop.

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“I think the time is now because I know my customer,” Victoria Beckham says. “It will be the first time that the people will really be able to see the brand through my eyes. It’s young and cool. There are great galleries in the area. There’s Dover Street Market directly opposite of us, which is not a bad thing.” Spanning 7,000 sq ft over three floors, the superstar has enlisted architect Farshid Moussavi, who worked on the 2012 London Olympic Park, to renovate the building. Plans include drilling a hole through the middle of the building to link the boutique’s three floors and creating a conceptual interior. Moussavi is a woman who loves fashion as well,” Beckham said “She has quite a conceptual eye, which I like. We want to make something different without making it overly complicated. I just want it to feel real for me.” Beckham has also revealed that Britain is her strongest market, followed by America - where she is set to open an office, in New York this month. www.victoriabeckham.com

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David Beckham buys £600,000 Damien Hirst painting… for his daughter’s new bedroom She may be just two years old but celebrity tot Harper Beckham is already on her way to developing a refined eye for art and fashion.

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overs were spotted carrying a Damien Hirst painting into the Beckham’s new mansion in Kensington, London. The seven foot painting of a pink heart embellished with butterflies is aptly titled “Daddy’s Girl” and is valued at £600,000., dwarfing a similar artwork commissioned by them for daughter Harper’s first birthday in July 2012. Hirst, who recently painted a minimal Mickey Mouse for charity, is a friend of David Beckham and the Beckham residence is home to many of his works. A source was quoted as saying, “The removal firm was extra careful with the Damien Hirst. It was packaged up and no-one wanted to drop it and put a hole in such a valuable work of art.” This isn’t the first time that the Beckhams have splashed out for their only daughter. Harper’s legendary wardrobe includes outfits and accessories by top designers including Marc Jacobs, Chloé, Burberry and Stella McCartney. The couple, who are estimated to earn around £100,000 a day, paid £31.5million for the Grade II-listed property – and did not need a mortgage. The purchase went through in September, but was officially recorded only last month.

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Apparently, their new home has seven bathrooms for its eight bedrooms and more than 9,000 sq ft of floor space, not including a 100ft Oriental garden. Interior designer Kelly Hoppen is believed to have been drafted in to help with plans to completely revamp the property. The couple will sleep in a huge master bedroom, there are three guest rooms, and the kitchen will be fitted to restaurant standards. As well as a large walk-in wardrobe/dressing room, Mrs Beckham, 39, will have a personalised manicure and hairdressing room which will have four nail bars, hairdressing chairs and mirrors surrounded with bulbs. There will be a playroom for the couple’s children – Brooklyn, 14, Romeo, 11, and Cruz, eight, and daughter Harper, now two – who will each have their own bedroom. Beckham, 38, has a personal ‘snug’ in the roof of the house which will be equipped with a bar and a pool table. The couple have a range of business ventures that have allowed them to buy their new home without the need for a loan. His company, Footwork Productions, showed a profit for 2012 of £14.7million, up from £13.4million. Beckham Ventures, which handles Victoria’s fashion business, posted a profit of £2million.

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SPRING FAIR 19th – 23rd MARCH 2014, BUSINESS DESIGN CENTRE, N1

fresh ideas for the home, the garden and you

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o celebrate the warm days ahead, and put a spring in your step, visit to the Country Living Magazine Spring Fair to gather lots of inspirational ideas for the home and the garden – and a little selfindulgence too. With independent designers, small producers and craftspeople showcasing the best in British design, you’ll find everything you need to create effortless country style. Find inspiration amongst the hundreds of unique enterprises presenting contemporary crafts, beautiful textiles, vintage interior furnishing, gardening accessories, stylish fashion, handmade jewellery and bespoke millinery - ideas as individual as you are, that you won’t find on the high street. There are contemporary home furnishings alongside vintage decorative accessories mixing the new with the old to create an individual home. There are Garden tools and accessories as well as outdoor furniture and lighting – perfect for al fresco dining and picnics. The Fair has plenty of ideas to try in your own garden, and offers tips on making the most of your outdoor space. Over in the lifestyle theatre, the popular demonstrations and hands on sessions in creative art and crafts – felting, stitching, needlework, papercrafts and watercolours – this could be the start of a new hobby. Have fun with friends in the hands on workshops and demonstrations to learn how to make delicious chocolates or discover your hidden talent for painting and other creative crafts. Support the dedicated producers who will whet your appetite with their mouthwatering cheeses, wines and cordials, salami and sausages and other regional fare. Admire a wonderful Spring garden designed by award winning Horticolous and take home memories and mementos from a very special day.

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This year there’s so much more to discover at the Country Living Magazine Spring Fair so book your tickets now and take advantage of the special advance price. Telephone 0844 848 0160 or book online at www.countrylivingfair.com/spring COMPETITION FOR LIFE MAGAZINE READERS

WIN 5 PAIRS OF TICKETS!

To enter the competition, answer the question below and send via email with your details (i.e. name, address and phone number) to tickets@ articulate.co.uk with ‘LIFE MAGAZINE COMPETITION - COUNTRY LIVING FAIR’ in the subject line. We will draw the winners and distribute the tickets. These are standard tickets valid for any one day throughout the show.

Competition Question: Which of these is a spring flower A) A lupin B) A dahlia C) A daffodil Or there is a special readers’ ticket offer, by quoting CL14S2 you get your tickets for only £12 in advance. (As opposed to the ticket price on the door which is £16.50) Tickets must be booked no later than 1pm on the day before the due visit. Telephone 0844 848 0160 or book online at www.countrylivingfair.com/spring This year, Country Living Magazine is proud to be supporting the Federation of City Farms and Community Gardens. Show your support during the Gala Evening by participating in special fundraising events on the night.

4-5 Roslin Road, London W3 8DH T: +44(0)20 8993 4415 www.thesofaandchair.co.uk

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Fashion Meets Fine Wine Courtesy of Corks & Couture 10th MARCH 2013, THE SAVOY HOTEL, STRAND, 7pm Join London’s style-savvy vintage wine aficionados for an evening of fashion and fine wine at The Savoy

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ainbow Trust’s Corks & Couture evening will be an exciting assault on the senses for anyone who appreciates fine wine, with guests getting the opportunity to taste all of the 2001 first growth Bordeaux grapes, considered to be some of the finest in the world.

The collection will include Chateau Latour, Chateau Lafite-Rothschild, Chateau Mouton-Rothschild, Chateau Margaux and Chateau Haut-Brion.

What’s more, the wine tasting will be conducted under the guidance of experts from Goedhuis & Co Fine Wine Merchants and there’ll be ample opportunity to ask questions and learn more about the interesting world of viticulture. But the evening’s not set to be a strictly wine-based affair. After a delicious dinner, guests can enjoy an exclusive catwalk show featuring collections from international designer Julien Macdonald, among other stars of the fashion world. Guests will also be able to bid for some exquisite prizes during the after dinner auction. And it’s all for a fantastic cause. The evening will help raise vital funds to enable Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity to provide emotional and practical support for families who have a child with a life threatening or terminal illness. Tickets for Corks & Couture cost £375 each and guests will be seated at tables of ten. To book please contact Judith on 01372 220042 or email judith.osorio@rainbowtrust.org.uk . 1 8 F E B R U A RY 2 0 1 4

Background on Rainbow Trust Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity provides expert social palliative care to families when their child has a life threatening or terminal illness. Offering emotional and practical support, assistance is available for families 24 hours a day. Individually tailored high quality care is offered from diagnosis through to treatment and, should a family become bereaved, the charity will continue to support them for as long as they are needed, helping family members cope with the present and prepare for the future. Rainbow Trust relies almost entirely on voluntary donations and through the outstanding generosity of its supporters is able to help more than 1,350 families a year throughout England. However, this is just 12% of the families that could benefit from its help. The charity’s vision is that one day all terminally ill children and their families will have access to a Rainbow Trust carer. During the last 25 years the children’s charity has attracted a raft of celebrity support, with highlights including renowned sports presenter Clare Balding hosting their glittering carol concert last year; the cast from Downton Abbey attending Rainbow Trust’s Jubilee Ball along with creator Julian Fellowes; and Hollywood actress Brigitte Nielsen stepping out to support the charity’s ‘Trust in Fashion’ event. The charity has gained considerable respect among the healthcare/medical profession for its expertise in social palliative care and in 1993 the Department of Health (DoH) actually used Rainbow Trust’s methods as a template for social palliative care services. The charity was also invited to contribute to the DoH independent review of palliative care services for children and young people in England in 2007. For more information on Rainbow Trust, please visit: www.rainbowtrust.org.uk

Stay Gorgeous for Less. All colour is half price from 22nd February until 15th March 2014.

50% OFF

COLOUR SALE Book your appointment today. Visit www.headmasters.com to find your nearest salon or call 0345 459 7700 Not valid for under 16s or with any other offer or discount.

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Private film screening hosted by legendary British actress

Julie Walters Among lots under the hammer at Terrence Higgins Trust auction

WEDNESDAY 12th MARCH FROM 7pm, CHRISTIE’S, 8 KING STREET, SW1Y 6QT

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chance to wow friends at your own private cinema screening hosted by legendary British actress Julie Walters, is among lots up for grabs at ‘The Auction’ in aid of HIV and sexual health charity Terrence Higgins Trust. The winning bidder and a lucky group of friends will be whisked to a glamorous London venue, where they will enjoy cocktails and canapés before viewing a classic film from the actress’ acclaimed career, introduced by Julie Walters herself. Sponsored by Prudential plc, The Auction will see an exciting range of items and ‘money can’t buy’ experiences – including a glamorous trip to LA to meet US showbiz legends Donny and Marie Osmond, and a starring role in your own fashion shoot with stylist, photographer and make-up artist to the stars – go under the hammer to raise funds for Terrence Higgins Trust. Other lots on offer will include a pair of bespoke wedding bands, personally designed for the winning bidder by luxury jeweller Tateossian; stunning works from artists including Andrew Salgado, Julian Opie, Maggi Hambling, Tracey Emin and Howard Hodgkin; and luxury five-star getaways in Asia and Europe. Another lot is an exciting behind-the-scenes tour of Gieves & Hawkes historic store at No.1 Saville Row, including afternoon tea and a made-tomeasure outfit of your choosing.

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Sonya Trivedy, Fundraising Director for Terrence Higgins Trust, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to launch our 2014 auction by unveiling this stunning array of lots and unique experiences. Whether you’re keen on a cinema-experience with a difference, fancy being whisked across the world on a luxury holiday, or want to get your hands on one-of-akind jewellery or artworks, our auction is a chance to bid for something truly unforgettable. The money we raise at the event will help us to continue to provide support for the thousands of people living with HIV in the UK today.” Terrence Higgins Trust’s annual auction has been a highlight in London’s social calendar since 1997, raising more than £3.5 million to help support tens of thousands of people with HIV across the UK. Over the years, the event has attracted supporters including Tracey Emin, Neve Campbell, Jerry Hall, Tamara Ecclestone, Joan Rivers, and Yasmin Le Bon. You can find out more about this year’s auction and buy tickets online by visiting www.tht.org.uk/auction.

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NICHOLAS BAGSHAWE PORTRAIT OF GENERAL SIR THOMAS BOWSER 1749-1833 BY THOMAS HICKEY

PETER BUNTING VENETIAN WOOD CARVING OF AN ITALIAN GREYHOUND C 18C, £2650

The Chelsea Antiques

SPRING FAIR WEDNESDAY, 19th TO SUNDAY, 23rd MARCH 2014. CHELSEA OLD TOWN HALL, KING’S ROAD, CHELSEA SW3

After last year’s successful re-launch, The Chelsea Antiques Fair will return to the Chelsea Old Town Hall twice in 2014.

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ne of the highlights in every antiques lover’s diary, the Fair, which was established in 1950, prides itself on its boutique style set up with a great variety of traditional art & antiques and a time line up to mid 20th Century.

Around 35 specialist dealers have been chosen for their expertise in each field and will bring exquisite highlights to the Fair, as well as objects with more affordable price tags from £100. The friendly Fair is known as the perfect place to chat to dealers and learn more about their specialities and collecting art and antiques in general.

Works of Art dealers, specialising in glass, ceramics, silver and textiles. There will also be a more active angle to the fair, with some live demonstrations of carpet restoration on the Pars Rug Gallery stand and talks by antiques and art specialists and interior experts. This year’s Fair will again support the Hearing Dogs charity, with a percentage of sales from selected objects going directly to the charity.

The Autumn Chelsea Antiques Fair will take place from 17-21 September, 2014. PARS RUGS ANT IQUE PERSIAN HERIZ CARPET, £7000 L MADE IN 1881 MONTEITH BOW PAUL BENNETT ER £8750 WINKLE AND SLAT IN LONDON BY ALD

This year’s Fair promises some great discoveries for collectors, investors and anyone decorating their home. Generalists like Mark Stacey, known for his appearances on BBC Antiques programmes, will exhibit next to British paintings specialists, jewellery dealers, oak furniture experts and 2 2 F E B R U A RY 2 0 1 4

Venue: Chelsea Old Town Hall, King’s Road, London SW3 5EE

Open: Wednesday 2-8pm, Thursday 11am – 8pm, Friday - Sunday 11am-5.30pm Admission: £5, but E-Tickets & details on: www.penman-fairs.co.uk T: 01825 744074

116 Fulham Road Chelsea London SW3 6HU Tel 0207 373 3668 26 England’s Lane London NW3 4TG Tel 0207 4499 594 12 Lichfield Terrace Sheen Road Richmond TW9 1AT Tel 0203 166 4008

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THE IDEAL HOME THSHOW RETURNS FOR ITS 106

YEAR!

14th – 30th MARCH 2014, LONDON EARLS COURT

Britain’s most iconic home event, the Ideal Home Show is back for 2014! With seven dedicated sections under one roof, this year’s show will be the biggest and best to date.

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elebrities Galore - hosted by fabulous celebrity Ambassadors including TV presenter and architect George Clarke, gadget expert Suzi Perry, food critic Gregg Wallace, garden expert Diarmuid Gavin, interiors icon Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, and TV presenter Melinda Messenger. The Super Theatre - the celebrity ambassadors will also be returning to the Ideal Super Theatre, which will host talks and demonstrations from the celebrities and a whole host of other household names including Martin Lewis, Founder and Editor of moneysavingexpert.com. Ideal Show Village - The centre piece of the show will be 5 Show Homes, built for visitors to explore. The Prince’s Foundation for the Built Environment has invested in three different homes to suit different markets - first time buyers, families or retired couples: The Downsizing House - A 3 bedroom bungalow, addressing how we can respectfully house the elderly and allow families to support them. The Starter Home - an efficient, 3 bedroom Vernacular home, aimed at established first time home buyers. The Urban Castle - A 4 bedroom Arts & Crafts inspired home, turning the 20th century notion of a ‘suburban castle’ on its head. In addition the Ideal Home Show will also feature two further unique show homes... A breakthrough in housing, the Multi-Generation Home, a property that can be taken to site, erected and become habitable within 24 hours. It aims to be the answer to the current housing shortage, showing how families can live together, with multiple generations using the same space for different needs. Bringing the ‘wow’ factor is the Luxury 7 Star Apartment with its own affinity pool, marble floors and luxury furnishings. What is more, the home will also have strong green credentials.

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Interiors Room Sets - Ideal Home Magazine will be bringing their room sets back to the show, offering style ideas, from kitchens to bedrooms and bathrooms, they’ll provide inspiration on alternative ways to utilise space. Kitchen & Bathroom Zone is packed with top brands offering the latest designs and products for your Kitchen and Bathroom projects. Ideal Advice Centre – new for 2014, the answer to all of your home queries, from Interiors, energy saving, planning and gardening, you can book individual consultations with top experts from all areas of the home. The Seasonal Cookery Theatre - With top celebrity chefs giving you handy hints and tips for your next culinary creation. With live cook along demonstrations, visitors will have the chance to taste the delights and witness the recipes being created live at the show. The Gregg Wallace Seasonal Restaurant - The infamous restaurant returns, hosted by our ideal Food ambassador Gregg Wallace, who will be providing a variety of British seasonal dishes to fill you up, taken from the Ideal Home Show Cook Book. Whether you are looking for inspiration for a home project, redecoration solutions or just a fantastic day out the Ideal Home Show 2014 has everything you need for you and your home all under one roof. To book tickets now log on to www.idealhomeshow.co.uk or call 0844 858 6763. Follow the Ideal Home Show on Twitter http://twitter.com/ideal_home_show

Prices: Tickets available from £12 when booked in advance*. Children under 16 go free. Times: 10-6pm daily. Late night Thursday open until 9pm *Subject to a £1.70 transaction fee. Children aged 15 and under go free when accompanied by a paying adult.

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KATE MOSS BY DAVID BAILEY, 2013 © DAVID BAILEY

BAILEY’S STARDUST 6 T H F E B R UA RY – 1 S T J U N E 2 0 1 4 , N AT I O N A L P O R T R A I T G A L L E RY, LO N D O N

The largest exhibition of David Bailey’s portraits. Over 250 portraits including rooms devoted to The Rolling Stones, Bailey’s travels, icons of fashion and arts – some seen in public for the first time 2 6 F E B R U A RY 2 0 1 4

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MICK JAGGER BY DAVID BAILEY, 1964 © DAVID BAILEY

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ponsored by Hugo Boss, this is a landmark exhibition of the work of David Bailey at the National Portrait Gallery, London. Selected by the photographer, Bailey’s Stardust will be one of the Gallery’s larger-scale photography exhibitions, with over 250 portraits occupying most of its ground floor.

One of the world’s most distinguished and distinctive photographers, David Bailey has made an outstanding contribution to the visual arts, creating consistently imaginative and thought-provoking portraits. As well as including new work, this exhibition contains a wide variety of Bailey’s photographs from a career that has spanned more than half a century. The portraits have been personally selected by Bailey from the subjects and groups that he captured over the last five decades: photographers, actors, writers, musicians, filmmakers, fashion icons, designers, models, artists and people encountered on his travels; many of them famous, some unknown, all of them engaging and memorable. Bailey will be making new silver gelatin prints of his black-and-white portraits especially for the exhibition. Bailey’s Stardust is structured thematically, with iconic images presented alongside many lesser-known portraits, its title reflecting the notion that we are all made from, and return to, ‘stardust’. There will be rooms devoted to Bailey’s travels, well as icons from the worlds of fashion and the arts, and people of the East End of London. There will be selections from two of Bailey’s most acclaimed bodies of work: the Box of Pin-Ups, which helped define the 1960s through arresting studies of key figures, and Bailey’s Democracy, in

JACK NICHOLSON BY DAVID BAILEY, 1978 © DAVID BAILEY

which people visiting his studio were asked if they would agree to be photographed naked. Rooms devoted to striking portraits of The Rolling Stones and Catherine Bailey contrast with remarkable documentary photographs from the photographer’s expedition to Papua New Guinea in 1974 and moving images of those devastated by the famine in east Africa, taken in support of the Band Aid charity in 1985. Sandy Nairne, Director, National Portrait Gallery, London, says: ‘Bailey’s Stardust is a very special event. It offers an exceptional opportunity to enjoy the widest range of the mercurial portraits created by David Bailey, one of the world’s greatest image-makers.’ Gerd von Podewils, Senior Vice President Global Communication at HUGO BOSS AG, says: ‘David Bailey is a master in his field. Photography and fashion are highly intertwined and therefore we are very honoured to be able to support this career-spanning and unique exhibition.’ There is an admission charge to view the exhibition.

National Portrait Gallery, St Martin’s Place WC2H 0HE Opening hours Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday, Sunday: 10am – 6pm (Gallery closure commences at 5.50pm) Late Opening: Thursday, Friday: 10am – 9pm (Gallery closure commences at 8.50pm) Nearest Underground: Leicester Square/Charing Cross General information: 0207 306 0055 Recorded information: 020 7312 2463 Website/Tickets: www.npg.org.uk F E B R U A RY 2 0 1 4 2 7

F E AT U R E

LAUNCH FASHION FORWARD

LUMIX GM1 CAMERA

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s seen on the runways of Ralph Lauren, John Galliano, Vivienne Westwood and DKNY, orange will play a key part in bringing your wardrobe up to date for spring, as well as carrying outfits through to summer. Enter the zesty LumixGM1, available in orange, a key colour trend for S/S14, classic black and sleek silver with black, the LumixGM1 is no bigger than a playing card and is a perfect fashion accessory as well as the hottest must-have camera. Having hit the catwalks of all four fashion capitals, this citrus trend is back with a vengeance. The LumixGM1 lets you accessorise this on-trend tone into a unique, wearable fashion piece. Pocket-friendly, the LumixGM1 slides into jeans and fits snugly into clutches, transporting you and your photos from day to night without a second thought. There is no excuse for forgetting your camera when the LumixGM1 is so small and bright. The LumixGM1 has a retro feel whilst being bang on trend and does so much more than take stunning images. This camera offers creativity with Wi-Fi to share your photos instantly, perfect for a busy day at Fashion

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Week. It offers superior image quality even in low lighting conditions, ideal for fashion shots at dusk or capturing an unforgettable evening outfit. Made for the fashionable mademoiselle, this quirky camera is both portable and fashion-forward. With a stunning 3.0 inch touch screen display for you to get to grips with your images, selecting your best outfit photo just got simpler. Set the focus and click the shutter with the lightest touch of a finger tip, the LumixGM1 makes taking stunning photos simple. Whether you are interviewing a designer or recording their latest collection as it struts down the runway, the LumixGM1 records videos at a moment’s notice. This mini marvel’s stunning cinematic HD video capability makes it ideal for those on the move. Create videos in high-resolution and then upload them straight to social media. Unplug your wardrobe with this piece of high-tech haute couture. The LumixGM1 is available for £629.99 from www.panasonic.co.uk/ LumixGM, as well as across John Lewis stores nationwide

YOUR TELEVISION IS A CREDIT TO YOU Receive up to £1,300 for your existing television when you upgrade to BeoVision 11*

Enjoy television like never before with the phenomenal viewing experience of the BeoVision 11 Smart TV. Even better, upgrade before 31st March and we will give you a very attractive part-exchange valuation on your current television, no matter the brand or model. Purchase BeoVision 11-40 and receive £850 in part-exchange for your existing television or £1,300 when you buy BeoVision 11-46 or BeoVision 11-55. 0% interest-free credit is also available to make upgrading even more affordable**. Please contact us to see how BeoVision 11 can change the way you view television forever.

*Terms and conditions apply. Offer ends 31/03/2014. **Subject to status. Please ask in-store for full details.

Bang & Olufsen of Winchmore Hill 727 Green Lanes London N21 3RX Tel: 0208 360 5088 Email: winchmorehill@bang-olufsen.co.uk Website: www.bang-olufsen.com/winchmorehill

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THE IMAGINE SHOP AT SELFRIDGES

A PREVIEW OF THE FUTURE OF RETAIL AT THE FOREFRONT OF TECHNOLOGY AND DESIGN AS PART OF ITS STORE-WIDE FESTIVAL OF IMAGINATION, SELFRIDGES TRANSFORMS ITS CONCEPT STORE, HOUSED WITHIN THE WONDER ROOM ON THE GROUND FLOOR, INTO THE IMAGINE SHOP.

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elfridges’ Festival of Imagination is an inspiring campaign designed to explore and celebrate the power and positive impact of imagination and The Imagine Shop highlights invention and innovation through a curated selection of imaginative, first of their kind products and retail experiences. Selfridges invites customers to experience future-facing shopping and indulge in a voyage on an extraordinary £300m Super Yacht designed by Zaha Hadid for Blohm + Voss – without stepping foot out of the shop. London-based augmented reality experts, Inition, have harnessed emerging technologies to create an interactive experience that takes customers on a tour of this made-toorder yacht. Dezeen, co-curator with Selfridges of the Imagine Shop, has also partnered with Inition to create an Augmented Reality Watch Store – allowing customers to try on a variety of watch styles in just seconds – using only one simple paper bracelet. For the first time ever in a retail environment, Selfridges introduces the Xkuty One Bike by The Electric Mobility Company, from £3,100. This ecofriendly electric bike, with a sleek white frame and handlebars and seat in your choice of colour, includes a dock that instantly converts your iPhone into a dashboard. The bike can reach speeds of 35 kilometres-per-hour and features hydraulic brakes at the front and back. Matching helmets in the same colour scheme are also for sale.

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From heels to jewellery to apparel – and even a full size ping pong table made to order - the Imagine Shop also houses completely new and exclusively available 3D printed products created by 3D Systems, whose printers plus materials for printing customized objects at home are also available to purchase. Alongside the ever-growing shift towards digital, the consumer’s need for continuous and instant content is crucial. With an innovative take on the Polaroid, Impossible has tapped into the new age of instant picture development with Instant Lab (£235), which produces printed pictures within seconds – Instant Lab simply clicks into your iPhone and is ready to work. With the Little Printer by Berg, customers can use their smartphone to subscribe to over 130 different publications and Little Printer will gather them into a timely, miniature – and completely personalized newspaper, printed at the push of a button. In line with the new tech approach to healthy and active living, the Shine Activity Monitor by Misfit Wearables will track activity levels whether you’re walking, cycling, sleeping or even swimming – in the sleekest form yet. The supporting app will set goals, download and evaluate individual stats – from steps traveled to calories burned – by just placing the device onto the screen of your smartphone.

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£300M SUPER YACHT DESIGNED BY ZAHA HADID

DIRK VANDER KOOIJ ROBOT PRINTED CHAIRS

British artist, designer and one of the window imagineers for the campaign, Dominic Wilcox, is contributing his No Place Like Home GPS Shoes for display in the Imagine Shop. These shoes have in-built GPS technology and LEDs in the toes that will guide you wherever you would like to go. Wilcox worked with technology expert Becky Stewart from Codasign and Northampton shoemakers Stamp Shoes to create this big step forward for wearable technology. On exhibition in the Imagine Shop throughout Festival of Imagination, the Swedish Industrial Design Agency, People People, display their completely transparent speaker – merging the function of home electronics and interior design. Selfridges will be the first to sell this transparent speaker (May 2014), combining a chameleonlike ability to blend into any room, with great sound quality and a WiFi antennae for any computer, music player or mobile phone. Additional highlights include Robot-printed chairs and coat hangers made by Dirk Vander Kooij, light bulbs that cast coloured shadows, the Sony QX10 Smartphone Lens – a professional performance camera lens to attach to your smartphone, the Autographer – a small wearable, hands-free and fully automatic camera as well as wearable technology and accessories. The Imagine Shop also showcases a number of exhibit-only products

that, although are yet to be available for retail, exemplify the revolutionary All in all, the Imagine Shop boasts over 200 products, ready to be discovered, many for the first time www.selfridges.com/festivalofimagination Selfridges, 400 Oxford Street, London, W1A 1AB www.selfridges.com About Selfridges Founded by American entrepreneur Harry Gordon Selfridge in 1909, it was and is still widely regarded as the first and best example of a modern department store. Selfridges has become a unique UK destination for fashion, luxury and retail theatre known for its world-class yet egalitarian customer approach. In June 2010 Selfridges was named Best Department Store in the World by the IGDS (Intercontinental Group of Department Stores). The title, which Selfridges held until June 2012, is the industry’s highest accolade. Selfridges won the title again in June 2012, for an unprecedented two times consecutively. The title applies until June 2014.

www.selfridges.com/festivalofimagination F E B R U A RY 2 0 1 4 3 1

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The Affordable Art Fair THURSDAY 13th - SUNDAY 16th MARCH, BATTERSEA PARK

For four days in March, Battersea Park hosts the annual Spring Affordable Art Fair, a haven for contemporary-art lovers, art collectors and families.

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f, like thousands of Londoners you’re looking to get involved, learn about, browse, and buy original art– then the Affordable Art Fair is the perfect day out. You don’t have to be a millionaire or an expert to enjoy all that the fair has to offer – all of the art for sale is available for between £40 and £4000 – with specially selected Art Under £500 pieces such as this photo by the up and coming Charles Emerson, clearly marked around the 111 exhibiting galleries. Whether you are looking for a gift for a special someone or hoping to add to an existing collection, the fair is designed for art buyers of all kinds. For novices there are guided tours and workshops to guide you in the right direction, and for collectors and connoisseurs there’s a huge breadth of choice with thousands of works from illustration to sculpture, photography and painting. The kids will be kept entertained with brilliant hands on activities, which this year focus on butterflies and bugs!

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The Affordable Art Fair team has a host of valuable tips and advice for first-time buyers and seasoned collectors, but for Nicky Wheeler, Director of AAF Battersea, the main message to take into the fair is quite simple; “Art is FUN! Enjoy yourself and get involved in all that is on offer. Join in one of our artist-run workshops, chat with the gallerists, discover new artists and take home a piece of art you’ve fallen madly in love with” Battersea Park Thursday 13th March – Sunday 16th March Opening hours: 11.00am – 6.00pm Charity Private View Wednesday 12th March Late View Thursday 13th, 5.30 – 9.30pm Ticket prices: £10 - £20 (concessions £8 - £13) Tickets are now on sale at www.affordableartfair.co.uk

BATTERSEA PARK LONDON 13 – 16 March 2014 Contemporary art £40 – £4,000 affordableartfair.co.uk

Fair sponsor:

the ultimate family Club for health, sports & relaxation just got better

ÂŁ1million investment in very latest Technogym Cardio & Wellness System

www.theparkclubgym.co.uk For further information and to arrange a club tour

call 020 8740 4599

The Park Club East Acton Lane West London W3 7HB

EDUCATION LIFE T H E

Q U A L I T Y

E D U C AT I O N

S U P P L E M E N T

F E B R U A R Y

2 0 1 4

Welcome... The independent school system in the UK is one of the finest in the world, and you are fortunate to have some of the best schools in the country right on your doorstep. In today’s economic climate, making the right choice for your child’s education is of paramount importance. Sometimes every parent needs a helping hand in deciding what is best for their children. Our Education Life series is an invaluable resource for any parent considering private education. Many schools will be holding open days during the course of 2014. Encourage your children to come with you and get their feedback after each visit. Take a notebook with you and write down the positive or

negative things your child discovers from each school. This will be a useful tool when you are comparing notes! It also provides an insight into the way a child sees a prospective future school. This month sees the first of our three part Education Life Guides which next appear in the April & September 2014 issues. We publish a dedicated Education Section in between to inform you each month of the latest open days taking place at the most prestigious schools available to your children. If you would like your school to appear in our stunning guides, please call Vanessa on 020 8240 0036 or email Vanessa@fishmediagroup.co.uk

THE FINEST SCHOOLS IN LONDON & THE HOME COUNTIES

E DUCAT I O N

LEARNING YOUR A,B,C’S

Our definitive guide to help you make all the right choices for your children

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here are 2,500+ independent schools in the UK which are independent of local or central government control. Independent schools offer a wealth of facilities and high teaching standards that enable students to achieve great results year after year. Independent schools are in the unique position to provide a truly bespoke education for your child. Choosing the right school for your child is an important decision that takes plenty of time and research. There are a wide range of independent schools specialising in different age groups and needs. PRE-PREPARATORY SCHOOLS (AGES 2 YEARS - 7 YEARS)

Pre-preparatory schools - also called nursery schools or kindergartens correspond to nursery and infants stages in local authority schools. In pre-preparatory schools children are taught to read, write, develop numeracy and learn to play. Preprep schools are often attached to specific junior schools.Pre-prep school is the first time most children will experience education, as opposed to the daycare provided by kindergartons. Children will have to learn the basics of mathematics, science and English, and a host of other subjects. Outside the classroom, many of the children will be having their first proper experience with team sports, music and/or choral tuition, and the arts. PREPARATORY SCHOOLS

(AGES 7 YEARS -11+ OR 13 YEARS)

Preparatory or prep schools, have a full range of subjects leading to admission to senior schools at 11+ or through the 13+ Common Entrance Examination.As their name implies, the preparatory schools are focused primarily on preparing boys and girls for their senior education, and the important public exams that come with it. 2 F E B R U A RY

Free of the National Curriculum, prep schools can differentiate their curricula according to what they think best prepares children for their later education. Most prep school children will be learning a foreign language from the very first year, and don’t be surprised to see subjects like Latin, Philosophy and Physics in the classroom, with cricket, rugby and tennis all on offer during games. As children reach the end of their time at prep school, most will look to the Common Entrance Exam as their gateway into the senior schools. It is during this transition process that senior schools are also looking for talented pupils for scholarships and other awards, so the very able students may be asked to attend further examinations/ recitals/matches &c, depending on where their particular strengths lie. In the state system, children are tested by the Government SATs, however many schools in the independent sector will have their own internal methods of measuring the performance of the children. There are around 499 prep schools in the Independent Association of Prep Schools, one of our constituent Head’s Associations, collectively educating over 134,000 children. SENIOR SCHOOLS

(AGES 11 YEARS -18 YEARS)

Most of the pupils in independent education are in senior school, educating over 350,000 senior school students in almost eight hundred schools. Independent Senior Schools offer approaches to education, subjects, facilities and sports unparalleled in the state sector – students can study History of Art, Government, Russian and Japanese, and try their hands at Astronomy, Ceramics or Equestrianism. They could be on their school judo or sailing team, and take trips all over the world. Whatever your child’s particular strengths, passions and interests, there is almost certainly a school which can offer the chance to try all of them.

280mm x 105mm wide:Layout 1 04/02/2014 11:13 Page 1

BROMLEY HIGH SCHOOL INDEPENDENT EDUCATION FOR GIRLS AGED 4‐18 YEARS

Can you achieve anything you want? WORDS LOUISE SIMPSON, HEAD, BROMLEY HIGH SCHOOL

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an you? Well, perhaps not; after all, the ability to win the high jump is increased if you have the right body morphology, excellent surgeons tend to have brilliant brains and manual dexterity, and the best teachers have an incredible love of their subject and a determination to inspire those around them to share that passion. So, the foundations to the excellence that has to be there are talent, but the greater proportion of the output must be the result of commitment, hard work and dedication. It must also be the result of being in an environment which offers choices, encourages experimentation and excellence and allows pupils to do what is right for them, not the timetable or the teachers, but what is right for each individual pupil at their stage on the learning journey. Many schools create opportunities for pupils to try new things; they may have fabulous teachers to inspire the pupils’ learning, great resources to support the pupils’ progress and, hopefully, the environment and values that create an ethos of courage and ‘having a go’. In such an environment pupils will have a wide diet of co-curricular activities alongside their academic work. These activities will bring transferable skills into the classroom and the pupils’ progress will be rapid, on all fronts. In such an environment, every pupil can choose their own route, every subject has equal status and every pupil’s individual dreams are encouraged. This allows the pupils to be free in their choices and strong in their decision making. In my school two very bright girls (each with 4 A* grades at A level) took a brave decision last autumn; they turned down excellent University offers in Mathematics (at Durham) and Chemistry (at Oxford) to follow their hearts and to study Music. In an excellent school the choice to study Music (or indeed any subject) is embraced and supported; the pupil making that choice is made to feel that all subjects are as important as each other, regardless of the perception by observers, if they are the right subject for the individual to choose. We advise pupils – do what you love and what you are good at. They are usually the same thing, and they lead our leavers, along with a big dose of hard work and inspiration, to the most amazing futures; to where they can achieve anything that they set their mind on. Open Events: Friday March 21st 10.15 am – 12.15pm; Thursday May 1st 2.15 pm – 3.45 pm; Saturday 4th October 9.30 am – 1.00 pm. Please contact the school via our website: www.bromleyhigh.gdst.net or our admissions office on admissions@bro.gdst.net or telephone 020 8781 7000 to arrange a visit.

OPEN EVENTS

Friday 21st March 2014 (10.15 am ‐ 12.15 pm) Thursday 1st May 2014 (2.15 ‐ 3.45 pm) Saturday 4th October 2014 (9.30 am ‐ 1.00 pm)

4+, 7+, 11+, 13+ & 16+

Fees assistance & Scholarships available in the Senior School

With

Us she willThrive

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT LIFE AT BROMLEY HIGH SCHOOL admissions@bro.gdst.net Tel: 020 8781 7000 www.bromleyhigh.gdst. net

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FAIRLEY HOUSE

Fairley House, described in the Sunday Times as ‘The Gold Standard’ is London’s leading day school for children with specific learning difficulties.

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e offer an education almost unique in that Educational Psychologists, with Speech, Language and Occupational Therapists are integrated into the school curriculum. We enjoy a central London location with excellent facilities. Fairley House addresses the difficulties of children between 5 and 14 with dyslexia and dyspraxia. There is a staff/pupil ratio of 1: 3.5 and the average stay is two to three years after which children return to mainstream schooling with a new ‘can do’ attitude. At Fairley House our intention is to provide your son or daughter with an educational experience which rivals that of any mainstream independent school. Many of our alumni have had excellent grades at GCSE and A-Level and progressed to top universities and now have successful careers in a range of areas.

London’s leading day school for specific learning difficulties t: 020 7976 5456 www.fairleyhouse.org.uk

...and all of a sudden, nothing is impossible. CD_0652 FH IND School Guide Half Page 137mm x 210mm.indd 1

04/09/2013 07:08

Independent co-ed pre-prep & nursery 3–7 years . Founded 1976 . Member ISA

Constructing, for life

Excellent and outstanding: 58 times! Verdict from the latest Independent Schools’ Inspection report: The words excellent (highest rating for Whole School and Key Stage 1) and outstanding (highest rating for Early Years) feature an incredible 46 and 12 times, respectively. See www.isi.net.

Main entry at 2+, 3+ and 4+. We look forward to meeting you! W www.hernehillschool.co.uk. E enquiries@hernehillschool.co.uk T 020 7274 6336

The Old Vicarage 127 Herne Hill London SE24 9LY

E DUCAT I O N

SYDENHAM HIGH GIRLS GET TO THE ‘ART’ OF GRAFFITI DEBATE

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Sydenham High education goes way beyond the curriculum. Cross-curricular learning is an important feature of the school’s approach, as recently demonstrated by year 6 students at the Junior School.

After considering the question ‘Graffiti: Art or Crime’ and preparing arguments for and against as a literacy exercise, the girls got the opportunity to do more that put pen to paper; they became graffiti artists for the day and looked at the question at a hands-on level. A professional graffiti artist led the girls in a structured workshop to help them create their own Banksie-style artworks. Their aim was to make four panels which would represent the key values of the Girls’ Day School Trust: putting girls first and encouraging each one to be the best she can be; being bold & brave to do things that challenge; being principled and working together.

What makes us different is the difference we make... From scientific exploration to personal discovery, our outstanding education goes way beyond the curriculum

Find out more at our Open Events Junior: Wed Sat Senior: Thur Wed Sat

7 May 27 Sept 8 May 26 June 20 Sept

9:30am 10.00am 9:30am 6.30pm 10.00am

Places for girls from 4 to 18 020 8557 7004 www.sydenhamhighschool.gdst.net admissions@syd.gdst.net

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11am 1pm 11am 8pm 1pm

Afterwards, the final striking pieces went on display to parents and the rest of the school afterwards and will now be hung in the school hall. “This is a perfect example of how you can bring together work in an area such as literacy with a more practical demonstration of the topic,” said Headteacher Kathryn Pullen. But what was the girls’ final conclusion about graffiti? The majority of the girls felt that graffiti could have a valid place if used wisely and appropriately but were more evenly divided on the bigger question of whether it was truly art. For more information about Sydenham High School, 15 and 19 Westwood Hill, London SE26 6BL contact the admissions team on 020 8557 7004 or email admissions@syd.gdst.net www.sydenhamhighschool.gdst.net

DEVONSHIRE HOUSE PREPARATORY SCHOOL

2 Arkwright Road, Hampstead, NW3 6AE A co-educational IAPS Prep and Pre-Prep School for children from 3 – 13 with its own OAK TREE NURSERY for children from 2½ to 3½

OPEN MORNINGS Tuesday, 6th May 2014 Wednesday, 7th May 2014

Initial entry is usually into the Oak Tree Nursery at 2½, Pre Reception at age 3, or Reception at age 4. There is a small intake at 7 and 8+ into Years 3 and 4 and there are occasionally vacancies for other age groups. Academic / Music scholarships are available for children aged 7 or 8. For more information contact the Admissions’ Secretary:

020 7435 1916

enquiries@devonshirehouseprepschool.co.uk www.devonshirehouseschool.co.uk

The Old Vicarage 127 Herne Hill London SE24 9LY

Independent co-ed pre-prep & nursery 3–7 years . Founded 1976 . Member ISA

W www.hernehillschool.co.uk. E enquiries@hernehillschool.co.uk T 020 7274 6336

Latest inspection report: 58 times excellent and outstanding! Come and see why.

Open morning: Sat. 8th March 2014 10am – 12:30pm Discovering together, for life

Main entry at 2+, 3+ and 4+. We look forward to meeting you!

E DUCAT I O N

Rosemead savours period of growth Rosemead Preparatory School in West Dulwich finished 2013 on a high with two grand openings as the school celebrated growth in two spheres.

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ot only has the school seen a steady increase in numbers, prompting the development of three magnificent new classrooms at its Thurlow Park Road building, but it also marked the tremendous growth in its RSA Garden at Elmcourt Road. The Mayor of Lambeth, Councillor Mark Bennett, visited Rosemead’s Christmas Fair to open formally the three classrooms at the top of the Preparatory Department. As he cut a symbolic ribbon, Mr Bennett praised Rosemead’s governors for “improving the school’s facilities”. The guests, former and present governors and staff, enjoyed champagne and canapés as Mr Bennett was being shown round by the Head Boy and Head Girl and their two deputies. He was also shown the Williams Library, with its state of the art computer facilities, which opened in September. For the opening of the Elmcourt garden Clive Broadbent, Chair of Governors – and a stalwart of the campaign to resurrect the derelict land behind the Elmcourt building – did the honours. The project began in summer 2012, with parents, pupils and staff clearing the site, removing a washing machine and the remains of a shed. With money from the Rosemead School Association (RSA) and tools supplied by Mary-Elizabeth 8 F E B R U A RY 2 0 1 3

Everitt, head of the Pre-Prep Department, the school Eco Club continued to clear and plant the ground. The garden features raised beds, a lawned area, shed, compost bins, birdhouses, shrubs, fruit bushes and vegetables. There is also a wildlife camera to help pupils to track developments in the garden. Arthur Bray, the Headmaster, applauded the project as a “wonderful example of the Rosemead family working together”. The pupils had further cause for celebration when the swimming team were overall winners in the recent Independent Schools Association regional swimming finals. Ten Rosemead swimmers have also qualified for the ISA national finals, held in Coventry in February. For information about Rosemead Preparatory School, please call 020 8670 5865. For admissions please email admissions@rosemeadprepschool.org.uk or for general information admin@rosemeadprepschool.org.uk. www.rosemeadprepschool.org.uk

rosemead fishmedia ad 125x90:Layout 1

13/1/14

Independent Co-educational 3-11 years. Founded 1942. ISA & IAPS

We all look forward to meeting you at our

Open Mornings Wednesday 19th March 9.30-11.00 Tuesday 3rd June 9.30-11.00 Tours of the school are held on Tuesday mornings Bursaries available

020-8670 5865 Prep Department, 70 Thurlow Park Road, SE21 8HZ Pre Prep Department, Elmcourt Road, SE27 9BZ email: admissions@rosemeadprepschool.org.uk www.rosemeadprepschool.org.uk

ST JAMES Junior School for girls and boys

School Tours with the Headmistress To book 020 7348 1793 www.stjamesjuniors.co.uk Earsby Street, London W14 8SH Registered Charity No. 270156

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Pa

Windlesham

INDEPENDENT BOARDING & DAY SCHOOL FOR BOYS AND GIRLS AGED 4-13 YEARS

OPEN MORNING

SATURDAY 8TH MARCH

SENIOR SCHOOLS’ HEADS’ PANELS Marlborough, Dulwich College, St Mary’s Ascot and Millfield

RSVP - please call admissions on 01903 874042 or email whsadmissions@windlesham.com Windlesham House School, Washington, West Sussex, RH20 4AY ~ windlesham.com

Outstanding Ofsted and ISI Reports

E DUCAT I O N

Fulham Pre Prep and Prep School Fulham Prep and Pre Prep’s outstanding characteristics are a wide ranging curriculum where children are encouraged to reach for the stars! Each pupil is encouraged to surpass expectations across many categories both academic and non-academic. There is a strong music heritage - with 3 choirs, two orchestras and an African drumming group. There is a busy sports programme with an extensive fixture list for both girls and boys, the astro turf pitches, netball courts, cricket nets and climbing wall in the Prep School playground gives ample opportunity for practise and outdoor team exercise thoroughout the day. Both schools produce friendly, happy children who enjoy coming to school. Good manners, commitment, and consideration for others are focused on from a very early age producing delightful young teenagers who are a great pleasure to be around. All the children go to their chosen senior schools 11+ include Godolfin, JAGS, Woldingham, St Mary’s Ascot, Downe House. 13+ include Kings College Wimbledon, St Paul’s, Dulwich College, Latymer, Eton, Winchester and Harrow. The Prep school is particularly interested in welcoming girls in years 7 and 8 who wish to complete Common Entrance where a tailored programme caters for all their requirements. Pastoral care is also vital with a House system which fosters co-operative relationships between children, and builds team work and loyalty throughout the year groups.

boys, Eton, Winchester and Harrow. Last year one boy achieved a full scholarship to Kings Canterbury. Fulham Prep and Pre Prep schools, founded in 1996 are in the heart of Fulham and are family-run schools for local families. Many pupils scooter or ride their bikes to school, as well as walk. There is a tried and tested bus service between the two sites and to local boroughs to pick up and drop off pupils further afield. Both schools are full of happy, energetic children so please come and sample some of the energy that the school exudes for yourselves. For more information please contact Fulham Prep School Mrs C Parrish on 0207 386 2444 at 200 Greyhound Road, London, W14 9SD Email prepadmin@fulhamprep.co.uk Fulham Pre Prep School Mrs C Newns on 0207 371 9911 At 47A Fulham High Street, London SW6 3JJ Email admin@fulhamprep.co.uk School visits are by appointment so please contact the school.

The Head Teachers Philosophy is that the school should provide a happy and structured environment within which each child can develop a love of learning and a curiosity about the world around him or her.

Why not come along to our next open day at the Pre Prep on Thursday 20th March between 09.30-11.00am. You can walk into the Pre Prep at 47A Fulham High Street, SW6 3JJ Telephone: 0207 371 9911. There’s no need to register. All prospective parents are welcome.

Recent scholarships include Radley, Sherborne, Charterhouse, St Paul’s

www.fulhamprep.co.uk

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• 125-year heritage, totally up-to-date teaching • Set in 45 acres of gardens and playing fields • Enthusiastic, dedicated and caring teachers • Exceptional results at Common Entrance • Huge range of sport and pastoral activities • Excellent transport links to/from London • For boys aged 4-13, with co-educational nursery

The Manor, Stoke D’Abernon, Cobham KT11 3PX

01932 862749 • office@parkside-school.co.uk

OPEN MORNING 7th FEB 2014

Fulha m Prep School

A thriving Surrey prep school with thoroughly modern facilities

Is your child passionate about music, or in tune with a wide curriculum of subjects? Find out how your child can reach their full potential by calling 020 7371 9911 (reception to year 2) or 020 7386 2444 (years 3 to 8) www.fulhamprep.co.uk

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S

E DUCAT I O N

Achieve Academic Excellence

S

at Sinclair House School

inclair House School opened in the heart of Fulham in 1989 as a small co-educational Nursery and Pre-Prep, offering a warm, caring and secure school environment. From its foundation, the School has been committed to personalised teaching, nurturing each child’s talents, building on their strengths, and developing their confidence to achieve academic excellence. The School places emphasis on values-led teaching with individual attention and support, and provides a consistent gradient of learning from the Early Years stage to preparation for 11+ and 13+ Common Entrance examinations. The core curriculum is structured to be intellectually stimulating, rounded and balanced, supporting each child’s unique academic progression and abilities. From Reception to Year 8, the children participate in a wide range of activities, including swimming, martial arts, drama, choir, and school trips both locally and internationally. In September 2013, in order to meet increased demand for student places, Sinclair House opened new premises for its Prep School on Fulham High Street. The new building offers enhanced facilities, including individual Music Rooms, an Art Studio, a fully-equipped Science Lab, an ICT suite, and a large, multipurpose Hall. This development has also included the expansion of the Nursery across two premises, each with outside garden space. Sinclair House Nursery works using the Montessori Method and delivers the curriculum individually and in small groups, with experienced and

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committed teachers, allowing the children to progress at their own pace. This mode of learning in the early stages of education facilitates greater enjoyment and confidence, which are key to developing strong social skills and independence. The Nursery recently implemented new iPad-based educational technology “My Montessori Child,” which enables integration of live observations, teaching plans and reporting frameworks. This new system facilitates real-time parent communication and enables increased parentsteacher collaboration throughout each child’s Early Years. Sinclair House School believes that education should be premised upon a broad range of opportunities and experiences which enrich learning and academic development. Pupils participate in numerous charity fundraising activities and community initiatives, to encourage a critical awareness of different societies, traditions and values. Sinclair House School’s aim is to promote healthy growth in pupils – both in terms of their intellectual and human skills – and to foster social cohesion across the school across various cultures and backgrounds. For more information about Sinclair House School Montessori Nursery: Lower Nursery: 196 Munster Road, London SW6 6AU Upper Nursery: 159 Munster Road, London SW6 6DA Preparatory School: 59 Fulham High Street, London SW6 3JJ Call 020 7736 9182 or email info@sinclairhouseschool.co.uk www.sinclairhouseschool.co.uk

S incl air H ouSe S cHool Montessori Nursery and Preparatory School for Boys and Girls aged 2-13

• Academic Excellence • Small Classes • Catholic Ethos • Extra Curricular Activities MoNtESSori NurSEry

PrEPArAtory SChool

Sa

oP

EN

tel 020 7736 9182 info@sinclairhouseschool.co.uk www.sinclairhouseschool.co.uk

email

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59 Fulham High street, Fulham, london sw6 3JJ

M or N iN 14 G

lower nursery 196 Munster road, Fulham, london sw6 6Au upper nursery 159 Munster road, Fulham, london sw6 6DA

WESTMINSTER SCHOOL www.westminster.org.uk

‘For the right girl or boy, simply the best.’ Good Schools Guide

16+ ENTRY FOR GIRLS & BOYS To find out about Open Days and online registration please look at our website.

13+ BOYS ENTRY To request a prospectus or to arrange a tour of the school, please call 020 7963 1003 or email registrar@westminster.org.uk For information about 7+, 8+ and 11+ entry to Westminster Under School please go to www.westminsterunder.org.uk Westminster School is a charity (No. 312728) established to provide education.

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Summer courses for young people AT MOUNTVIEW INTRODUCTION TO DRAMA SCHOOL Two-week courses specifically designed for students aged 17+ who are planning on training in acting or musical theatre at drama school. Taught in groups of 14 to 16 they give a taste of the life of a Mountview student and prepare participants for the audition process. 28 JUL – 8 AUG | £725 ENGAGE! Week-long courses for young people aged 9 to 16 years old develop acting, singing or dance skills through fun and dynamic workshops. Students work in small groups towards an end-of-course show for family and friends. 28 JUL – 1 AUG | 5 – 9 AUG | £175

Find out more and apply

MOUNTVIEW.ORG.UK/SHORTCOURSES · 020 8826 9217

Easter School 2014 Central Saint Martins 4 weeks starting 24 March

Animation Architecture Bespoke training Business skills Ceramics Courses for under 19s Creative process Daytimes Digital design Digital film and video Dual city Drawing Evenings Fashion Fine art Graphic design Interior design Jewellery Journalism Online learning Painting Performance Photography Portfolio preparation Printmaking Product design Saturdays Sculpture Study abroad Textiles Theatre design Weekends Writing

www.arts.ac.uk /csm/shortcourses Short Course Office, Central Saint Martins, Granary Building, 1 Granary Square, King’s Cross, London N1C 4AA, UK. Email: shortcourse@csm.arts.ac.uk Sign up for special offers and updates by email: www.arts.ac.uk/csm/subscribe. Telephone enquiries and Customer service: 020 7514 7015 (From overseas dial +44 20 7514 7015)

MUSIC AT HABS The Haberdashers’ style is to love learning and to enjoy the academic opportunities alongside a huge wealth of extra-curricular activity. In both schools the range of the non-academic curriculum is enormous and the level of participation by pupils is high. The Music season is very strong this year, culminating on March 31st with the biennial Barbican concert. Both schools are participating in this prestigious event, which will feature a Combined Symphony Orchestra, Combined Choral Society, Senior Choirs and combined Boys’ Prep and Girls’ Junior School Choirs. Also included in the evening’s entertainment are the amazing Boys’ Big Band and the St Catherine Singers. Current music research suggests that regularly playing an instrument changes the shape and power of the brain; improving hand-eye coordination, memory, mathematical ability, reading and comprehension, concentration, selfexpression and relieving stress, thus potentially making you brainier.

‘

Learning to play a musical instrument has definite benefits and can increase IQ by seven points.

’

Lutz Jäncke, psychologist University of Zurich

Music is an important part of both schools’ academic and extra-curricular programmes. With a strong emphasis on personal creativity, it offers students an opportunity to build something together as a team. Both schools foster a welcoming, inclusive musical atmosphere that encourages and praises music at all levels. Opportunities for pupils at all levels to play in both large and small ensembles are plentiful. These opportunities are greatly appreciated by pupils, which is illustrated by the high participation. Both schools have a long tradition of excellence in Music, aided by excellent purpose–built facilities that make the vibrant combination of large group rehearsals, concerts, small recitals, individual lessons and practice possible.

Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’ School Butterfly Lane, Elstree, Hertfordshire WD6 3AF Tel: 020 8266 1700 office@habsboys.org.uk www.habsboys.org.uk Open Day: Sat 11th October, 2014 1-4pm Haberdashers’ Aske’s School for Girls Aldenham Road, Elstree, Herts, WD6 3BT Tel: 020 8266 2330 admissions@habsgirls.org.uk www.habsgirls.org.uk Open Day: Sat 11 October, 2014, Junior School: 10am-12.30pm Senior School: 2pm-5pm

Haberdashers’ Aske’s School for Girls

learning & independence Open Day 11 October 2014 Juniors 10am-12.30pm, Seniors 2pm-5pm Scholarships and Financial Assistance available from 11+

Independent Day School for Girls aged 4-18 Aldenham Road, Elstree, Herts, WD6 3BT e: admissions@habsgirls.org.uk t: 020 8266 2300 www.habsgirls.org.uk Registered Charity No. 313996

The Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’ School Nurturing Excellence

An outstanding independent day school for boys aged between 5 and 18.

Open Day Saturday 11th October 2014, 1–4pm (no appointment necessary)

Headmaster Peter B Hamilton MA Butterfly Lane, Elstree, Hertfordshire WD6 3AF Tel: 020 8266 1700 office@habsboys.org.uk

www.habsboys.org.uk

registered charity no: 313996

E DUCAT I O N

The role of the Head Teacher

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BY SIMON EVERSON, HEAD MASTER OF MERCHANT TAYLORS’ SCHOOL

am now six months into my second headship. It seems a good point to pause and reflect on the experiences of being a Head. As a group, we Heads suffer more than most from a misleading popular perception of our role. Despite being almost 100 years out of date, for many the image that most closely describes a Head Teacher is taken from the Bash Street Kids stories in the Beano. They summon up a picture of an antique, rake-thin, remote and tweedy old man, clad in a black academic gown. This perception is unfair to Heads – but what are we really like? What should parents and pupils understand of this important figure in their child’s education? We should start by debunking a few myths. The most common myth of headship is that it is a lonely job. The perception is of crushing solitude, of an isolated person who – whilst brooding at an Olympian height – bears the weight of the whole school upon his or her shoulders: just this morning I opened the Times Educational Supplement to see that the lead article bore the headline ‘The Loneliness of Leadership.’ The image beside the headline was a marble statue holding his face in his hands with a rather mischievous pigeon perched on his head. After more than eight years of headship I beg to differ. Yes, the final decision lies with the Head but each of us is surrounded by teams and innumerable supportive groups of colleagues. We share the discussion, collectively develop the vision and rarely act without agreement and mutual support. More widely, every Head is linked to other Head Teachers through professional bodies and circles of friendship. If all that fails, buy a dog. Ask most Head Teachers whether they are afflicted by loneliness and they will reply that they would cheerfully welcome a bit of solitude to get some thinking done. The second myth is that the role is stressful. Setting aside the fact that not all stress is bad and that it is a balance of stresses that keeps cathedral walls standing for innumerable centuries, in fact the role is not stressful in the true sense of the word. It is pressured, often hectic, busy and (in modern parlance) full on – but not stressful. Stress arises from feeling of lack of control. Stress arises from uncertainty. Heads suffer from many things but they benefit from being the one in charge. Arguably, Deputy Heads - with significant responsibility but no full ownership of the direction of the school - are more prone to stress. The third common misperception is that headship is primarily about administration and paperwork. Nothing could be further from the truth. It is true that, particularly in state schools, the compliance culture requires that paperwork be undertaken and that records be in order. However, this is ‘grunt work’ and will largely be completed by support staff, overseen by 2 0 F E B R U A RY 2 0 1 3

a Deputy. Rather than a paper shuffling role, headship is almost entirely focused on people, whether it is supporting a Rugby XV on the touchline or taking lunch with pupils new to the school. As a Head, your attention will be almost exclusively given to the needs of your pupils and working with colleagues (both teaching and support staff). The few minutes of any day not given to encouraging, collaborating with, inspiring, admonishing, cajoling and acknowledging those two key groups will be spent working with others. Heads also work closely with governors, parents, the press, people of local significance, former pupils and innumerable others. The primary tools of headship are communication and persuasion, whether delivered one-to-one or to a larger group. Our final myth is that each Head is, at least on some level, a Machiavellian mastermind. Much as some of us might enjoy it if we were, this description does not stick either. In fact, schools are now so complex that it would be almost impossible to mastermind all activities people and processes involved. Again, the opposite of that myth is true. It is vital for every Head to be as open and transparent as possible. No Head wants to be in possession of information about a pupil unknown to that the child’s parents. Teachers look to Heads for inspiration – but they are highly intelligent and do not take kindly to the feeling of being manipulated. Head Teachers have to be moral leaders as well as professional leaders. An essential part of this is to prove beyond doubt to others that we are not in it for ourselves, but have a wider perspective and a clear moral compass. So what is true about the role? The reality is both simpler and more fulfilling than any of these myths. The busyness of the role is a given. Besides that, a key ingredient of the role is variety. Headship will involve you in all aspects of the life of a school and the experiences of those who work and learn there. The only certainty is surprise; it is not uncommon to go from a financial strategy meeting to one offering comfort to a distressed pupil or colleague. The working day of the Head is also full of humour. Not a day goes by without laughter and celebration of achievement. It is inherently joyful to work with children – never boring, always surprising and often humbling. After eight years, I can honestly say that I am still learning. I doubt I will ever reach the point where the day ahead is fully mapped and without surprises. And that’s why I enjoy the role so much! Simon Everson was Head of the Skinners’ School in Tunbridge Wells for eight years before becoming Head of Merchant Taylors’, Northwoood in September 2013.

MTS

Merchant Taylors’ School Excellence, integrity and distinction since 1561

Open Morning

1561

May 10th 2014 10.00 - 12.30

Wouldn’t you prefer a London school in the country? 40 minutes from Bond Street and Marylebone is: • 2014 Registration: 16+ December 31 2013

• A traditional boys’ education for your son at a ‘Top Ten’ boys’ school • ‘Outstanding’ - 2008 School Inspection • Inspirational teaching • Unique tutorial system • Civilized, friendly & unpressured • Magnificent sports fields • Superb facilities set in 250 acres

• 2015 Registration: 13+ June 30 2014 11+ November 30 2014 • Bursaries • Academic, Art, Drama, Music and Sport Scholarships

Getting here • Car MTS is 15 minutes from the M1, the M25 and the A40 • Coaches Beaconsfield, Ealing, Harpenden, Harrow, Highgate, Mill Hill, Radlett, Stanmore • Transit MTS is adjacent to Moor Park (Metropolitan Line)

and is accessible from any Jubilee/Metropolitan Line station Chiltern line trains change at Rickmansworth From Marylebone: Chiltern Line trains change at Harrow Travelling time from WC1/W1 is 40 minutes

Guided tours (last tour 11.30) The Head Master speaks at 11.15 and 12.15

www.mtsn.org.uk

Please contact Gregg McCann, Admissions Officer admissions@mtsn.org.uk +44(0)1923 845514 Merchant Taylors’ School Northwood Middlesex HA6 2HT

Excellence, integrity and distinction since 1561.

For boys 11 - 18

E DUCAT I O N

A community coming together One of the remarkable things about a good school is the way in which it can engender tremendous community spirit. Such spirit was really evident at Aldenham in their response to the tragic events of the Philippines Typhoon in November. The result was a 24 hour Music ‘Play In’ organised at short notice during which pupils, parents, staff, former pupils and friends of the school were able to offer a continual programme of performance all day and all night. Every pupil in the Senior School and in the Prep School, plus 40 pupils from their sister school, St Hilda’s Bushey were able to take part. There were operatic performances, rock bands, nursery school choirs and many talented soloists. They also took the opportunity to mark the 100th birthday of Benjamin Britten with performances of three of his choral works at midnight. The culmination was an extremely powerful service in the School Chapel where the 560 students in the Senior School sang ‘Amazing Grace’ and prayed for the people from The Philippines. Audiences and all those connected with the event responded in a most generous way with over £13,500 being raised for the DEC Typhoon Hayan appeal. All those involved will remember this as a very special event indeed – a really response to tragic 125 x appropriate 185 Life Magazines1:Layout 1 events. 30/01/2014 14:00 Page 1

Headmaster will speak at 10.15am and 11.15am Head of Prep School speaks at 11.00am Last tour in the Senior School is 12.00 noon

Open Morning

Saturday 14 June 2014 10.00am-12.30pm

Outstanding Boarding / Day options for boys & girls within the M25 An excellent all round education Aldenham School, Elstree, Herts WD6 3AJ Tel: 01923 858122 www.aldenham.com

E DUCAT I O N

Extra or co-curricular, what’s the difference?

F E B R U A RY 2 3

HURTWOOD

HOUSE

THE BOARDING SCHOOL FOR THE

ARTS CREATIVE & PERFORMING

hurtwoodhouse.com

F E AT U R E

Planning for future career success In 2013, Ofsted reported on the effectiveness of careers services in schools and concluded that three quarters were not delivering adequate advice, nor were they engaging with external experts. Add to this a swathe of warnings that the quality of careers guidance in schools is “nothing less than appalling”, and “heading towards a cliff edge”, and warning sirens are likely to start sounding.

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ndeed, the issues around delivering careers guidance are compounded by external factors. Simply, the world we live in is increasingly competitive and many young people and their parents are realising that top academic qualifications aren’t always enough to succeed. Evidence suggests that academic qualifications count for just 50% of a young person’s ability to do a job well. The remaining 50% is made up of that person’s character, focus, persistence, ability to cope with failure, to make connections and to think critically. But in a world where 40% of jobs weren’t even thought of 10 years ago, it can often be difficult to determine which skills are the key to success – especially if specialist support isn’t available. Psychometric profiling is an excellent way to help young people identify and understand their strengths and weaknesses. It can help them better understand their passions and therefore choose further studies and career paths best suited to them as an individual. Many leading independent schools have offered this support for years, and now The Inspiring Futures Foundation, which has a heritage of delivering careers guidance that spans over 70 years, has made its Futurewise programme available to parents to purchase directly for their children where perhaps sufficient provision isn’t made at school. Futurewise offers contemporary online psychometric assessments, a personalised profile report, a one to one interview and access to a guidance helpline. It is designed for young people between 15 and 23 which makes it a vital resource not just through secondary school years, but on to college, training, university and beyond. For concerned parents, Futurewise can really help their children achieve a competitive edge just when it’s needed.

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But of course, parents can support their children to plan for their future study and career paths on an on-going basis. Here, Inspiring Futures provides some guidance on what to remember: Keep an open mind: don’t settle on one career at an early age and then refuse to be swayed from it if it seems you aren’t going to get the grades or simply aren’t suited for it. Research, research, research: don’t assume you know what a career or course entails without reading about it and finding out more from those in the industry. Don’t always rely on well intentioned parents and friends whose information may be out of date! Career insight events provide an opportunity to meet with and hear first-hand from professionals currently in those sectors. Volunteer – helping out with any form of community, environmental or charitable cause equips you with lots of useful new skills and enhances your CV – something which could pique the interest of a potential employer or course tutor. Get some experience: arranging work experience will not only provide invaluable career insight, but also valuable additions to your CV. Don’t forget to also include other achievements where the skills are transferrable to a work place scenario: babysitting shows responsibility; success in music exams shows persistence; and volunteering can demonstrate a commitment to a role regardless of financial reward. To find out more about the Futurewise New Generation programme, visit: www.myfuturewise.org.uk/newgeneration/individuals

Is your son or daughter aged between 15 and 18? Are they making confident decisions about their future? What type of career would suit me as a person? How do I make sure I am studying the right subjects? Where can I find out more about what employers want?

Futurewise New Generation is a comprehensive and progressive guidance programme for young people designed to support them up to the age of 23. The programme provides: • Online psychometric assessment • A helpline for subject, higher education and careers questions

• 2 one to one advice sessions • Discounts on career experience days and much more

Tel: 01276 687511 Email: helpline@inspiringfutures.org.uk www.myfuturewise.org.uk/newgeneration/individuals

London’s leading children’s photographer

H E L E N

B A R T L E T T

info@helenbartlett.co.uk HB 2013 London Life 190x130mm v1.indd 1

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P H O T O G R A P H Y www.helenbartlett.co.uk 22/01/2014 12:55

EV E N TS

22ND - 23RD

MARCH 2014, AT OLYMPIA

Europe’s biggest cruising event – the 6th London Cruise Show

DISCOVER YOUR PERFECT CRUISE EXPERIENCE

W

hy not make 2014 the year to take a cruise? There are now more cruise ships than ever before, catering for all types of travel styles, to an ever-diverse range of cruise destinations. The event brings together the world’s leading cruise lines and specialist companies, making it the perfect one-stop shop to research and book your ideal voyage, whether you are a regular cruiser wanting to expand your horizons or a newcomer keen to dip a toe into the world of cruising. Family With state-of-the-art ships offering everything from ice-skating rinks to onboard water parks, many cruise lines, including Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Lines, Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Princess Cruises, P&O Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Cunard and Costa Cruises offer incredible family-orientated facilities to entertain children of all ages. Families looking for relaxation, fun and enjoyment along with exceptional childcare in the onboard nurseries and kids’ clubs need not look any further. Adventure Sailings on stately tall ships, smaller boats and expeditionary vessels are an ideal way to delve into the world’s most offbeat destinations and spot spectacular wildlife. Discover the best sites to view polar bears, to meet indigenous tribe people or follow in the footsteps of legendary explorers. Adventure cruising can take you to places other ships cannot reach – and sometimes with just a small group of passengers per voyage. Specialists include: Hurtigruten, Star Clippers, Adventure Canada, Silversea Expeditions, Noble Caledonia, Aqua Firma Travel Premium & Ultra Luxury Opulent surroundings, attentive service and quality dining are hallmarks of luxury cruises on both small ships and megayachts that often cater for only a few hundred guests. You can expect more space with upscale suite accommodation, chic deck areas and speciality restaurants, while ashore the emphasis is on destination discovery at ports of call more off the beaten track. Such cruises are largely all-inclusive, without extra charges for drinks, gratuities and, in some cases, shore excursions. Silversea, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, SeaDream Yacht Club, Seabourn, Crystal Cruises, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, Oceania Cruises, Azamara Club Cruises, can cater for your luxury requirements. 6 2 F E B R U A RY 2 0 1 4

Exclusive Clubs & Suites Cruise ship accommodation is moving upmarket with mainstream lines increasingly introducing more suites and exclusive guest areas; in some cases creating an intimate “ship within a ship” feel. Choose from spa suites that have unlimited access to wellness areas, suites with butler service or those with direct access to private restaurants, their own swimming pool and exclusive deck areas.MSC Yacht Club, Norwegian Cruise Line – Haven, Royal Caribbean International – Loft Suites, Celebrity Cruises – Reflection Suites, Cunard – Grill Suites can provide that luxury. World Circumnavigating the globe is still one of the ultimate cruise experiences and there are numerous world cruises or long voyages. These depart from various points in Europe and the USA, though Southampton is the traditional port for British world cruise passengers to sail from. Voyages range from around 80 days to six months, though most are around 100 days, and combine ocean crossings with exotic destinations across different continents. P&O Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Cunard, Oceania Cruises, Fred Olsen, Silversea, Holland America Line, Seabourn, Princess Cruises, Crystal Cruises can take you on the ultimate long voyage of discovery. The 2014 London Cruise Show is packed with inspirational ideas and practical advice, presented by leading experts from the cruise industry. To uncover the world of cruising don’t miss your chance to attend Europe’s largest cruise travel showcase. Show features include: Centre Stage & Entertainment Ask The Experts Sessions Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines Taste Theatre – Food & Drinks Sampling Meet The Cruise Lines Theatre Small Ship, Luxury & Adventure Cruise Theatre Wine Tasting Sessions Fashion Shows & Advice Sessions For further information please visit www.cruisingshow.com

EV E N TS

Free tickets to A Place in the Sun Live 28th – 30th MARCH 2014, OLYMPIA

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f you’re thinking of buying a home abroad, then you should make a visit to A Place in the Sun Live, the official exhibition of the hit TV series is where you can get all the expertise, advice and inspiration you need for finding your new home abroad. And Life Magazines readers can get tickets worth £12 each for free!

A Place in the Sun Live, Europe’s largest and best-attended overseas property exhibition, takes place at Olympia London with a featurepacked show. Visitors to the show can meet agents face-to-face who are selling property from all around the world and find out everything they need to know about buying a property abroad. Taking part in the exhibition will be over 150 property agents and developers showcasing thousands of properties for sale from over 40 countries, with specialist feature areas for some of the most popular destinations Brits buy holiday homes. A Place in the Sun Live features a seminar programme hosted by overseas property experts, including special appearances by the TV show’s celebrity hosts Laura Hamilton, Jasmine Harman, Jonnie Irwin and Amanda Lamb. Show Highlights The French Village In association with French-Property.com brings you a selection of agents selling properties from across this popular country set around its own dedicated seminar theatre where you can learn all about tax, legal issues, leaseback properties, managing currency exposure on property and getting health insurance in France.

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The Florida Pavilion Home to a collection of agents and developers from the Sunshine State and a dedicated seminar theatre covering subjects such as the path to immigration, Florida mortgages and navigating the currency rollercoaster. Find out everything you need to know about buying, living and working in Florida. The Portuguese Pavilion Sponsored by Premier FX, will showcase a selection of properties from the Silver Coast and all along the Algarve, plus there’s seminar sessions on how to buy and sell property in Portugal, mortgages, taxes and banking in Portugal and how to make rental income from your property. The Italian Pavilion The Italian Pavilion sponsored by Italian property portal Gate-away.com will feature hand-picked agents showcasing properties from across this beautiful country. There is a daily schedule of seminar sessions covering all you need to know when buying a property and planning la dolce vita. To get your free tickets simply visit www.aplaceinthesun.com/ lifemagazines where you can complete and print your eticket to bring along to the show to gain entry. You may have as many free tickets for this event as you like, however you will need to complete the form again for each ticket required. A Place in the Sun Live is owned and organised by APITS Ltd, which also publishes the quarterly A Place in the Sun magazine and overseas property website aplaceinthesun.com with thousands of searchable houses, villas, apartments and plots of land around the world.

Hand-picked villas sougHt-after locations tailor made service With nearly 800 luxury properties in the greek islands, italy, france, spain, portugal, thailand, morocco, uk and the caribbean within our portfolio we have something to suit every family. Be it an exceptional view, a beachfront house or a breathtaking infinity pool, our luxurious villas provide the ultimate in comfort, individuality and style. all our tailor made holidays benefit from our travel experts’ first-hand knowledge. they offer high standards of personal service and meticulous attention to detail to help you discover your perfect family holiday.

Masseria delle PalMe, Puglia, italy sleePs uP to 10 set amid five acres of private and peaceful olive groves, within easy reach of several sandy beaches, this impressive family villa in puglia is perfect for family holidays. the traditional ‘masseria’ walls now surround an open plan kitchen with breakfast bar, an atmospheric dining area, a sitting room with big sofas, 42” flat screen tv and double doors out to the courtyard. spacious outdoor areas include poolside dining gazebo, barbecue and pizza oven, and exterior staircase to the roof terrace for table tennis, rural views and sundowners. explore as a family the trattorias, cafes and shops in carpignano, just 2km away.

Finca el coto, santanyi, Mallorca, sPain sleePs uP to 10 Within easy reach of a choice of beaches and lawned garden for children to run around in, this is a fabulous enchanting farmhouse, built in traditional island style. set in suitably rural surroundings, the villas oak beamed ceilings and terracotta tiled floors infuse the house with old world charm. the beautiful gardens have shaded pergolas alongside furnished outdoor seating and dining areas with the solar heated swimming pool set in a sunny paved terrace. furnished for very contemporary comfort the layout of this villa works well for two families travelling together.

To book your luxury villa holiday call our travel experts now on 020 7563 7995 or view our full portfolio at www.cvvillas.com

atolikos House, kassioPi & kelia, corFu sleePs uP to 6 a fabulous family villa, atolikos House sits right at the water’s edge on the private headland of the point estate, its ten metre pool set in a sunken terrace with uninterrupted views of the beautiful bay. the broad terraces are stylishly furnished for al fresco living, with a covered dining and barbecue area and open-air seating for leisurely lounging. steps and a meandering path lead to a jetty below the house to enjoy swimming and sailing. kassiopi’s cafés, bars and restaurants are a fifteen minute walk away.

kalaMaki Bay House, kalaMaki, st sPiridon & PeritHia, corFu

ocean vieW, st JaMes, BarBados

sleePs uP to 10

sleePs uP to 6

With stunning views from the exceptional swimming pool, this chic and very spacious villa marries traditional elegance with modern luxury and boasts a wonderful secluded setting.

a delightful family villa in the exclusive merlin Bay enclave of eight homes, ocean view is attractively furnished and enviably positioned for the beach and busy Holetown.

casa cottiMi, uMBria & tuscany Border, italy sleePs uP to 8/12 nestling in lawned gardens, this charming farmhouse enjoys a truly delightful position with spectacular panoramic views.

BeacH cottage, Western algarve, Portugal sleePs uP to 6 this cottage set on a historic 3 hectare private estate has glorious panoramic views over the sandy beach below. the gardens and decked terrace by the pool offer an idyllic spot to soak up the sun and delicious meals can be enjoyed under the shady pergola. a gentle track leads down through the gardens to the wide sandy beach with restaurants and ferragudo, a charming old fashioned village, is just 1 km away.

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100 years

of Beverly Hills

The City of Beverly Hills, California turned 100 on 28th January 2014

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or its centenary, Beverly Hills is inviting you to an exciting year-long celebration comprised of tourism initiatives, regional events and community activities that will pay tribute to Beverly Hills’ past, present and future and promote the city’s brand on a global scale. Now considered a district of Los Angeles, Beverly Hills has remained one of America’s most prosperous addresses for the last 100 years. Originally a Spanish ranch where lima beans were grown, it was incorporated in 1914 by a group of investors who had failed to find oil, but found water instead and eventually decided to develop it into a town. It is now home to 34,290 inhabitants. Sometimes merely known by one of its

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primary zip codes, “90210”, it has been home to many actors and celebrities. The city also includes the shopping district Rodeo Drive and the Beverly Hills Oil Field. The first significant development in the area was the Beverly Hills Hotel, which was constructed in 1912 and remains in place to this day. Attracted by its grandeur, movie stars including Charlie Chaplin, Buster Keaton, and Rudolph Valentino built mansions in the surrounding area; the actor Beverly Hills was made the city’s honorary first mayor of Beverly Hills a few years later. In 1928, the Beverly Wilshire Apartment Hotel (now the Beverly Wilshire Hotel) opened on Wilshire Boulevard between El Camino and Rodeo drives,

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part of the old Beverly Hills Speedway. The hotel, perhaps most famous as the backdrop for the film Pretty Woman, recently completed the most ambitious renovation in the history of the hotel.

4th May – Greystone Mansion Concours D’Elegance – Annual Classic Car event with a special appearance by a vintage 1914 vehicle to celebrate the Centennial.

Simply put, Rodeo Drive offers the most impressive shopping in Beverly Hills. On this famed palm-lined street, you’ll be beckoned by the likes of Prada, Gucci, Valentino, Armani, Versace, Dior, Saint Laurent, Tom Ford, Cartier and Harry Winston. Rodeo Drive is the ultimate homage to fashion, jewels and art - its pavements lined with an endless parade of fascinating, beautiful people from around the world. You’ll enjoy more than 100 worldrenowned stores and hotels for three sprawling and magnificent blocks. For the utmost in convenience, Beverly Hills offers complimentary parking just off Rodeo Drive in any number of city parking facilities located throughout the Golden Triangle. Rodeo Drive has been used as a filming location for countless films and television shows, most memorably, Pretty Woman.

15th June - Celebrate Father’s Day on Rodeo Drive in Beverley Hills with a dedicated event to feature “One Hundred Years of Horsepower” for the celebrations.

If you want to sample the luxury of Beverley Hills, a lifestyle some only dream about, there are many events taking place in 2014, not only to celebrate the Centennial, but just for an excuse to mix with the rich and famous. Beginning on 7th March, the Beverly Hills Hotel & Bungalows, Montage Beverly Hills, the Beverly Hilton, L’Ermitage Beverly Hills and the Peninsula Beverly Hills will each redecorate a suite to reference a key period in the city’s last century. For the Montage, Nina Petronzio has developed a “Film Noir” space that encapsulates the 1940s. In the Beverly Hills Hotel & Bungalows, a Marilyn Monroe-inspired suite by Tihany Design will feature original artefacts from the actress’s estate and a library of her most popular books and films. The Los Angeles Marathon takes place on 9th March, giving you the chance to run through Beverley Hills – although the temptation to stop and browse the luxury designer boutiques may be too much to bear! 27th April – Join the city to celebrate on Rodeo Drive, with a giant Birthday cake and carnival, while you lavish yourselves among the spectacular designer stores.

18th & 19th October – Beverley Hills Art Show takes place at Beverley Gardens Park with over 250 exhibits from around the world. November-December – A stunning display of festive holiday decorations across the city as you embark on some luxury Christmas shopping. The Peninsula takes a more modern approach, referencing the awards ceremonies that modern-day Beverly Hills is so frequently associated with. Its “Birth of Modern Luxury” suite, by Forchielli Glynn, is clad in photographic murals of the city’s various prize-giving ceremonies and guests there will be able to experience a Hollywood-style photo shoot on the hotel’s own red carpet. From Frank Sinatra to Marilyn Monroe, Paul Newman to Madonna, and Mr. Chow to Grace Kelly, Beverly Hills has seen stars born and icons made under its seemingly perpetual sunshine and palm trees. Its magical, almost mystical, atmosphere is still appreciated and admired today, and inspires many to retreat to Los Angeles to follow their dreams. Make the most of your visit to the city where the red carpet is always rolled out. Whether it’s black-tie or California casual, a trip there isn’t complete without experiencing the glitz, glamour and style of an event in Beverly Hills. From museum exhibits and art shows to concerts and film festivals, find out more about the glittering gatherings, unforgettable activities and fun things to do in Beverly Hills during your stay in California’s most sophisticated city.

See more at www.lovebeverlyhills.com F E B R U A RY 2 0 1 4 6 9

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Experience a new part of the UK

Luxury self catering with St Andrews on your doorstep I

f you’re planning your next UK short break and are yearning for fabulous beaches, fresh air, wide open spaces and a healthy dose of boutique self catering accommodation, why not try a new part of the UK and consider luxury countryside resort Morton of Pitmilly by St Andrews?

With Edinburgh airport an hour away by car, you could leave London behind and be relaxing at Morton of Pitmilly in around the same travel time as a trip to Cornwall. Basing yourself at Morton of Pitmilly, in one of the resort’s stunning 4 star country courtyard properties or 5 star boutique steading holiday houses, gives easy access to the home of golf just six miles away, with the celebrated Kingsbarns golf course a stone’s throw from your doorstep. The picturesque East Neuk Villages of the Kingdom of Fife, many of which have world heritage site status, are also close by. This part of Scotland is highly accessible to visitors from all over the UK with St Andrews an exclusive destination, an esteemed seat of learning which attracted our future King and Queen and which has much more to recommend it –from its wide range of independent shops, golf emporiums and upmarket boutiques to its museums, fabulous coastline and restaurants promoting the very best of Scotland’s Larder, especially the world class seafood. You can enjoy the best of both worlds with a break at Morton of Pitmilly as both town and country pursuits are at your disposal. Make the most of the countryside setting with woodland walks and trails right on your doorstep as well as a breathtaking beach. The resort has a full range of on site leisure facilities from an indoor and outdoor tennis court, indoor swimming pool, spa treatment rooms and gym to a children’s playpark. And if you can bear to tear yourself away from your boutique accommodation, which has features such as bespoke oak furniture; underfloor heating, stunning open plan living areas and modern kitchens with American style fridge freezers and traditional cooking ranges, you can enjoy shopping and exploring in St Andrews. The award winning holiday homes at Morton of Pitmilly can cater for all sizes of breaks from couples and family stays to larger celebrations of up to ten guests or more, ideal for a special birthday or anniversary treat. The family run resort is happy to arrange golf at nearby Crail golf course, another superb links course in the area. Or if tennis is your thing Morton of Pitmilly is Scotland’s indoor tennis destination with its own superb indoor court. Packages have been introduced for 2014 which offers both tennis and golfing breaks or for the foodie enthusiast there are breaks offering on site cookery tuition from one of the area’s most esteemed food writers and chefs. Check out the website at www.pitmilly.co.uk for further details on our full range of properties; suggested activities in the area and how to book your break. 7 0 F E B R U A RY 2 0 1 4

C O M P ET I T I O N

Win a luxury short break at Morton of Pitmilly Countryside Resort Stay in a stunning 5 star holiday house and enjoy superb on site leisure facilities which will leave you feeling refreshed London Life magazine has teamed up with Morton of Pitmilly luxury countryside resort near St Andrews in Scotland to offer one lucky reader and three friends the chance to win a two night stay in one of the resort’s superb contemporary 5 star holiday houses. Relax in comfort and style in boutique accommodation with underfloor heating, gorgeous sea views, French doors to the patio and a spacious open plan living, dining and kitchen area. Enjoy full use of the on site leisure facilities including indoor heated swimming pool, croquet lawn and gym along with both indoor and outdoor tennis courts – the resort is Scotland’s only dedicated indoor tennis destination. There are also spa treatment rooms on site, offering a number of pampering and rejuvenating treatments. If you fancy a stroll the resort has its own walks and trails into the breathtaking Fife countryside right from your doorstep, or you can explore the historic town of St Andrews with has great shopping and a wide choice of restaurants as well as being the famed home of golf. The picturesque East Neuk villages of Crail, Anstruther and Elie, just down the coast, are also well worth a visit. A resort which has won numerous “Best Tourism” Awards in Scotland, Morton of Pitmilly demonstrates all that is best about luxury self catering in one of Scotland’s most exclusive tourist enclaves. This part of the Fife coast is in many ways Scotland’s answer to Cornwall.

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To win this fantastic prize (which must be taken by end of November 2014, (excluding peak periods and certain dates specified by the resort). To enter email your full name, address including postcode, mobile number and email address with your answer to stay@pitmilly.co.uk. Morton of Pitmilly is Scotland’s indoor tennis destination for which sport? A. Tennis B. Basketball C. Golf Email entries to: stay@pitmilly.co.uk or post entries to: Morton of Pitmilly, Kingsbarns, St Andrews, Fife, Scotland KY16 8QF Terms and conditions apply

For further details on Morton of Pitmilly, Kingsbarns, St Andrews for the 2014 season call 01334 880466, email stay@pitmilly.co.uk or check out www.pitmilly.co.uk

as eek by d e r W tu Fea of the imes T n ratio unday o t s Re The S

heene terrace

worthing, w. sussex

A collection of prestigious beachfront apartments After a two-year, multi-million pound restoration these superb individually designed beachfront apartments in the heart of Worthing are now complete. This brand new quality construction has been finished to an exceptionally high standard retaining the original Grade II listed period facade. • two bedrooms with en-suites • most with direct sea views • two apartments with balconies • • passenger lift • communal gardens • some with private off-road parking • • bespoke Farrow & Ball hand painted kitchens • 10 year new homes warranty •

• Prices from £340,000 to £550,000 • Show apartment open for viewings by appointment •

For more details or to arrange a viewing please contact our agent:

Call 01903 228606 or email newhomes@michaeljones.co.uk

Scan view a video tour of Mayfair House or visit our agent’s website michaeljones.co.uk

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The at Home Experience AT L L A N G O E D H A L L

ituated in the imposing Brecon Beacons National Park, Llangoed Hall was rescued by Sir Bernard Ashley, co-founder of the Laura Ashley fashion empire. Now the new owner, a British businessman, is keen to restore the “at home” experience, which was established by Sir Bernard in 1990s. Llangoed Hall has an impressive history, which dates back to 560AD when it is thought to have been the site of the first Welsh Parliament. Inspired by this legend, the architect, Sir Clough Williams-Ellis transformed the Jacobean mansion he found here in 1914 into an Edwardian county house. Situated deep in the valley of the River Wye, the hotel commands magnificent views of the Black Mountains. The rooms are warm and welcoming, furnished with antiques, oriental rugs, and an outstanding collection of oil paintings, watercolours and line drawings acquired by the previous proprietor, Sir Bernard Ashley. The luxurious and spacious 23 bedrooms enjoy fine views of the Wye Valley.

An electronic surveillance system is situated along the drive in order to ensure that someone is waiting by the door ready to carry your case to your room for you, where a decanter of sherry awaits you. Llangoed Hall has no reception desk, just a gleaming antique table with a visitors’ book, meant to encourage the idea that the hotel is the site of one continuous Edwardian house party. There is no bar, just a cheerful and friendly member of staff to get you a drink. A library, complete with window seats and snooker table adds refinement and, for those with the inclination, a gentle game of croquet is available on a specially designed lawn.

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The first phase of a comprehensive development plan will see in excess of two million pounds being invested on refurbishing the hotel’s 23 bedrooms and bathrooms. Comprehensive works are currently underway, with a new drive and turning circle, new carpets, curtains, painting, re-upholstery, planting, new banqueting chairs, the finest cut crystal glassware and china, new silverware, bed-linen and much, much more. Other exciting plans are in the pipeline for the Llangoed Hall Estate, which comprises 17 acres of gardens and grounds in the Wye Valley. The hotel is set to improve dramatically and the hotel continues to be an outstanding wedding venue and an ideal location for corporate and mid-week leisure market business. The hotel’s Managing Director is Calum Milne, who has returned to Llangoed Hall having managed some of the top hotels in the UK, including Inverlochy Castle Hotel, Torlundy, Fort William and Lower Slaughter Manor, Stow-on-the-Wold. For more information about Llangoed Hall Llyswen, Brecon, Powys LD3 0YP call 01874 754525 or email enquiries@llangoedhall.com Twitter: @TheLlangoedHall www.llangoedhall.co.uk

At Llangoed Hall

A truly unique wedding venue Llangoed Hall has an enviable reputation as a truly unique wedding venue and the location provides a stunning backdrop for your photographs.

For details and a brochure call 01874 754525 Email: enquiries@llangoedhall.com • www.llangoedhall.co.uk • Twitter: @TheLlangoedHall Llyswen, Brecon, Powys LD3 0YP

Winner of the Hotel of the Year 2013-2014, Wales Winner of Restaurant of the Year 2014 for Great Britain & Ireland

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LONDON’S PROPERTY GAME The London version of the Monopoly Board was devised in the 1930’s and has become one of the best-known board games of all time. The hierarchy of places the creators, John Waddington Ltd, picked has become etched on the consciousness of three generations, along with such phrases as ‘Go back to Old Kent Road’ and ‘Advance to Mayfair’.

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aturally, inflation has turned the property values and rents into purely symbolic figures, but Old Kent Road and Mayfair probably still belong at either extreme. Property has definitely increased in availability and value all over London, catering mostly for the more affluent who are seeking property and investments in the capital. Take a trip around the Monopoly Board and see for yourself how property values have changed the face of the original version as we know it. PARK LANE The two famous purples retain their crowns as the most expensive on the board. A 4 bedroom apartment currently on sale with Foxtons is priced at £16million, and a car space with 24hr security for £85,000 through Harrods Estates.

MAYFAIR London’s Mayfair is still the most exclusive address on the Monopoly board. An example of this would be a newly renovated mansion house for sale, just off Berkeley Square, for £39.5million, to view through Savills.

REGENT STREET Perhaps best known as a luxury shopping destination, It is home to one of the finest collections of international brands in the world, including Apple, Burberry, Banana Republic, Jaeger & Anthropologie. Residential properties therefore are few and far between, but expect to pay the absolute maximum if you can find one.

exclusive as neighbouring Bond Street and Regent Street. Again, you will find a very limited number of residential properties available, but do seek out neighbouring streets if you want to shop ‘til you drop on your doorstep.

LEICESTER SQUARE The centre of London’s cinema land, it is claimed that the Square contains the cinema with the largest screen with the most seats (over 1,600). The square is the prime location for world leading film premières, and casinos in beautifully restored buildings. We have not been able to track down any residential properties to buy on Leicester Square, however if you want to be in the thick of it, a 3 bedroomed apartment in Wardour Street recently sold for £4.9million.

COVENTRY STREET The street is the main conduit between Piccadilly Circus and Leicester Square. Platinum Lace Gentlemen’s Club & Bar, Café De Paris, and the Prince of Wales Theatre are all located on this street. Commercial opportunities tend to be more available than any residential properties.

PICCADILLY Running from Hyde Park Corner in the west to Piccadilly Circus in the east, the right hand side is bounded for half its length by Green Park. For art lovers there is the Royal Academy of Arts in Burlington House, and the newer Hauser & Wirth Gallery opposite. It is the location of several notable London landmarks - The Ritz Hotel, Fortnum & Mason’s food emporium and the Burlington Arcade. Properties to rent appear to feature more at this famous location. A 3 bedroom apartment is available to let at an astonishing £56,333 pcm!

BOND STREET

STRAND

Here you are entering the world of luxury retail, with its wealth of elegant stores, exclusive brands, luxury goods, fine jewels, art and antiques. Bond Street is a landmark for all things sophisticated. It is near on possible to obtain a residential property, but in neighbouring Jermyn Street, a 2 bedroom apartment sold recently for £2.3 million. Very reasonably priced given it’s outstanding location.

Often called The Strand, with The Savoy and Somerset House at your fingertips, a perfect combination for London Fashion Week’s elite. Strand also boasts two churches, St. Mary-le-strand and St Clement Danes. A meticulously refurbished fourth floor 2 bedroom apartment located in a secure portered building, known as Savoy Apartments, with a lift adjacent to the renowned Savoy Hotel, is on sale for £1.95million.

OXFORD STREET

TRAFALGER SQUARE

Home to a number of major department stores and numerous flagship stores, including the world-renowned Selfridges. although not as

The world-renowned square sits in front of the prestigious National Gallery. The square adjoins the Mall entered through Admiralty Arch

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to the southwest. To the south is Whitehall, to the east the Strand and to the north Charing Cross Road and on the west side Canada House. Trafalgar One is the only residential address on the Square, these superbly specified apartments offer unrivalled views over the Square. One 4 bedroom apartment recently sold for £16.9million.

FLEET STREET The world famous home of newspapers and print until the 1980’s. Fleet Street is now more associated with the investment banking, legal and accountancy professions. The highlights are probably the abundance of historical pubs such as Ye Old Cheshire Cheese, The Wig & Pen and The Punch Tavern. Britain’s oldest bank, Child & Co. has been located at no.1 Fleet Street since 1673. A 2 bedroomed apartment is available to buy at £1.1million through Chesterton Humberts.

BOW STREET Situated in the heart of Covent Garden, and home to the Royal Opera House and a unique blend of boutiques and street performers. Bow Street Magistrates’ Court was probably the most famous magistrates’ court during its existence. It closed in 2006. Famous cases heard include Dr Crippen, the Kray Twins and Jeffrey Archer. “London’s first professional police force” (1739-1849) the “Bow Street Runners” was founded here by the author Henry Fielding. Bow Street houses 24 apartments with a current average value of £1,323,980.

MARLBOROUGH STREET If anyone knows why Great Marlborough Street was reduced to Marlborough Street on the Monopoly board, please let us know! Turning the corner from Regent Street towards Soho you are greeted by the striking Tudor style beams of Liberty’s. Across the road is the site of the Magistrates’ Court, now closed Famous defendants in cases heard here have included Brian Jones of the Rolling Stones and John Lennon. Owners are holding on to their properties in this prime location, and letting them for an average of £900 pw.

VINE STREET

war dead. The Whitehall Theatre is sited at the Trafalgar Square end while the small cluster of pubs & restaurants are aimed unashamedly at the passing tourist trade. A one-bedroomed apartment is currently on sale at £835,000 through Moretons.

NORTHUMBERLAND AVENUE Situated moments from Trafalgar Square, Victoria Embankment and Covent Garden. Several British government ministry departments are located in buildings on the prominent Northumberland Avenue, including the Ministry of Defence, as well as an array of prestigious hotels and restaurants. Charing Cross and Embankment Underground Stations are minutes’ walk away. A 3 bedroom apartment recently sold for £3.9 million.

THE ANGEL ISLINGTON One of the biggest winners of the property game, the Angel Islington has moved up as a sought-after residential area. Well known for its arts culture and for its close proximity to many of London’s top business and entertainment districts. Angel is home to the Business Design Centre, the capital’s most stylish and extravagant exhibition centre. Angel boasts an eclectic, vibrant working environment. My London Pad have a stunning 2 bed period conversion apartment for £550,000. An indication that Angel has indeed gone up the property ladder.

EUSTON ROAD One of the most accessible areas in London, from Kings Cross & St Pancras station you can use National Rail, First Capital Connect and on the tube, the Hammersmith and City, Piccadilly, Northern, Circle, District, Metropolitan and Victoria Lines. The gothic magnificence of the Grade I listed former Midland Grand Hotel has been preserved and reopened as the luxurious St Pancras Renaissance London Hotel. Taking this into consideration, the area has grown into a hub for affluent commuters. Jones Lang LaSalle have a luxury 3 bedroom apartment for sale at £2.95million.

PENTONVILLE ROAD

You could walk up and down Vine Street in just a few seconds; tucked away behind Piccadilly. There was once a police station here and the theory is that it was included in the ‘Orange set’ because of its connection with the law. With an array of upmarket restaurants on the doorstep that include Gaucho and Bentley’s Oyster & Grill, the Café Royal and Le Meridien Piccadilly are just moments away. 1 Vine Street comprises 17,500 sq ft of retail space, 54,000 sq ft of offices and seven duplex apartments. Current occupiers include Real estate investment advisors, Patron Capital.

Pentonville Road runs west to east from Kings Cross to City Road. This street is distinguished by the “set back” housing lines originally intended to provide an atmosphere of spaciousness along the thoroughfare. Much like Angel and Islington it has become a sought-after area, with property prices very much reflecting this. Lineas Estate Agents have a five storey Grade II listed Georgian house available on Pentonville Road itself, with 5 bedrooms. The price? £1.999million. I rest my case.

PALL MALL

Situated in the boroughs of Southwark & Lewisham, you can find pretty much everything here, from an art gallery, a museum, and bars and restaurants aplenty. Still the area with the lowest property value on the Monopoly Board, although developments have been made, it still remains low, with a 4 bedroom maisonette on sale at £415,000.

Parallel to The Mall itself, Pall Mall is best known for being the home of various gentlemen’s clubs including the Athenaeum, the Royal Automobile Club, the Travellers Club, and the Oxford and Cambridge Club. It is noticeably quiet along Pall Mall and the atmosphere is traditional and conservative; little appears to have changed here over the centuries. A one-bedroomed apartment is available through Foxtons priced just under the cool million at £999,995.

WHITEHALL Whitehall is dominated by government buildings and the ceremonial rituals of the monarchy and the military. In November every year on Remembrance Sunday crowds gather to observe the monarch placing a wreath of red poppies by the cenotaph and remember the

OLD KENT ROAD

WHITECHAPEL ROAD Whitechapel Road stretches from Vallance Road to the Blind Beggar pub, with a busy daily street market. The pub was to gain national notoriety when local gangster Ronald Kray shot George Cornell there in 1966, but whenever Whitechapel is mentioned, we all think of Jack the Ripper. It appears Whitechapel is going up in the world, if property values are anything to go by. A 2 bed apartment on Whitechapel High Street is on sale for a whopping £940,000 through My London Home, whereas in contrast, on Whitechapel Road, a 2 bed flat sold for £295,000.

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ParkinG at Gatwick airPort G

oing on holiday is very exciting but we all know that getting to the airport is often fraught with problems. Finding a car park, waiting and transferring to a bus to take you into the terminal all take time and only add to the anxiety and overall travelling time. Since 1992 Tudor Rose Parking has offered an excellent alternative to the normal park and ride method of leaving your car at Gatwick. Valet Parking (or meet and greet parking as it is sometimes known) has always been available but considered too expensive and prohibitive to most peoples pockets. Security and safety are a priority and the purchase of Hookwood Park in 1999 has provided Tudor Rose with the perfect location for its valet parking operation. The park is manned 24 hours a day, gated and has total metal, palisade fencing on the perimeter. A centrally located security office provides constant

monitoring of the car park areas and full CCTV provides further security and records of activity. Being within a few minutes of both North and South Terminals at Gatwick, Tudor Rose are able to despatch a vehicle upon demand and will arrive on the terminal forecourt within 5 to 10 minutes. Using this method of parking at Gatwick meant that Customers could save as much as 2 hours of their travelling time. Year on year investment into the company have enabled Tudor Rose to offer a premium service at reasonable rates. Our comprehensive web site goes beyond expectation and provides all the facts you need to know when leaving your valuable property in the hands of someone else. The acquisition of the Hookwood Lodge Hotel in 2007 directly opposite the car park further expanded the range of products Tudor Rose has on offer. Set in 20 acres of parkland it has the peace and quiet of a rural estate yet is only a few minutes drive to the airport. Gatwick park and stay packages are available including the same fast valet parking service the company has become renowned for. Cooperation with Gatwick Police, Gatwick Airport Ltd and membership of local associations give the company a superior overview and up to date knowledge of airport activity. Tudor Rose keep their Customers informed of all the news that may affect their travel plans via their web site which is constantly updated. Tudor Rose are an ‘Approved Operator’ by Gatwick Airport Ltd, hold the coveted ParkMark® award from the Association of Chief Police Officers and are approved by West Sussex Trading Standards.

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It’s a Back to School Reunion at The Schoolyard in Wandsworth

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ocated just minutes from Wandsworth Town station is L&Q’s latest development, The Schoolyard, offering not only a collection of one, two and three bedroom apartments, but also the opportunity to take residence in one of London’s most exciting and vibrant areas. Situated on the former Eltringham school site, The Schoolyard is a development steeped in local history. Cherie Stockbridge, who continues to live in Eltringham Street, was the third generation of her family to attend the former school. In her family’s honour, each building of the development has been named after members of the Stockbridge family, including Cherie’s grandparents and parents. Since launching in October 2013, The Schoolyard has proved hugely popular, with the first 19 homes at Peachy House now completely reserved. Named after Cherie’s aunt, Summerbee House has recently launched with 12 new 1, 2 & 3 bedroom apartments, available from £390,000. Cherie comments: ‘This place has a heritage of learning. The school holds particularly fond memories for me and I’m glad this development continues to honour it. I really think the sense of community will endure between us and the residents, as it always has done.’ With Wandsworth Town Station just a few minutes’ walk away, residents will benefit from excellent transport links into central London, as well as having full advantage of the area’s fashionable and dynamic lifestyle. Close

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to local shops, venues and restaurants, such as The Ship and Chez Bruce, residents of The Schoolyard will also have nearby Wandsworth Common, Tooting Common and the Thames riverside to play and relax in. Cathy Lloyd, Sales Director at L&Q, comments: ‘This development is a great opportunity for buyers looking to move into SW18. Wandsworth has always been a desirable and prestigious place to live, and attracts both young professionals and families alike. The variety of homes at The Schoolyard offers a range of buyers the opportunity to enjoy living in this exciting and lively community right at the heart of the capital.’ Made up of 119 thoughtfully-designed homes, all with outdoor space, buyers at The Schoolyard will benefit from a premium specification. Modern interiors include chrome fittings throughout, and smooth finish white walls to complement the engineered hardwood flooring in the lounge. Custom built kitchens feature integrated Zanussi and Electrolux appliances, while the bathroom features Roca Hall designs. Underfloor heating, video door entry and built-in wardrobe with sliding mirrored doors add a touch of luxury, while spacious shared communal gardens reinforce the strong community feel that identifies the site’s heritage. For more information call 0844 406 9288 or visit www.theschoolyardsw18.com

Stunning new 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments with balconies in the heart of vibrant SW18 with London on your doorstep FIrST phaSe 100% unDer oFFer

SeConD phaSe now SellInG Don’t miss out. To book a viewing at our marketing suite call 0844 406 9288 or visit

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F E AT U R E

Over 200 years since its colours and decoration disappeared from view, English Heritage has restored the library at Kenwood House in London to its original glory. One of the great rooms of 18th-century Britain can now be enjoyed as its famous Scottish architect Robert Adam intended. As well as the library, the Caring for Kenwood programme sees three other Robert Adam-designed rooms restored to their original glory, the redecoration of four rooms in the 18th century style, and the repair of the house’s slate roof to protect not only the interiors but the internationally important collection of paintings by among others, Rembrandt, Vermeer, Turner and Gainsborough. As part of the Caring for Kenwood project, Kenwood House closed to the public at the end of March 2012. The house has not only been restored and repaired – it feels more like a home. English Heritage has dispensed with the usual paraphernalia of ticket desks and rope barriers, replacing these institutional trappings with an open fire, warm rugs and leather sofas on which guests can relax, enjoy the paintings and discover the many stories of family life in Kenwood. This national treasure in more than 70 acres of sweeping parkland was restored by English Heritage for £6 million, including £4 million from the Heritage Lottery Fund. 8 2 F E B R U A RY 2 0 1 4

Curators traced missing furniture and used old bills and drawings to have other pieces copied. New paint colours were hand-mixed to match the originals. Joiners, gilders and other craftspeople worked round the clock to finish on time. Where two years ago there were striplights, fitted carpet, and an echoing entrance hall with a desk and ropes, now there are hand-made carpets on old pine boards, a roaring fire, chandeliers, and sofas and chairs where you are encouraged to sit, to gaze perhaps at a landscape designed by Humphry Repton in the late 18th century for the second Lord Mansfield. This stunning Georgian villa, houses one of the finest private collections of Old Master paintings amassed, including works by Rembrandt, Gainsborough, Vermeer, Reynolds and Turner — built up by brewing magnate Edward Guinness, Lord Iveagh, who bought the empty house after a contents sale in 1925 to hold his collection, but died before it was installed and bequeathed it all to the nation. As English Heritage’s Head of Properties, Jeremy Ashbee, says: “The Iveagh Bequest said we were to create a generic feel of an 18thcentury gentleman’s home, so that is what we have done.” When you enter the house, the fire in the big hall is immediately welcoming, as is a new

Kenwood House Restored hand-knotted rug. Delicate plasterwork has been repainted in the original blue and white century in style, but fresh and springy. In Mansfield’s day, the hall doubled as a dining room, with tables carried in and out as required. You then pass the newly blue staircase, lit by a specially made lantern in the spirit of an Adam lantern at Osterley, into the Library anteroom. Either side of the door, in niches, stand Flora and a Muse. The original statues, bought in 1771, were lost, so these two beauties have been cast from sculptures owned by the Duke of Northumberland, at Syon. Nearby are two seats with leather tops, carved for Robert Adam by Sefferin Nelson in 1773. Sold in the 1922 contents sale, they were spotted by a dealer who had seen them in a Country Life photo from 1913. Now, incredibly, they have returned home. Like a sleeping beauty coming to life again, Kenwood has many more such stories to share. For more information on Kenwood House, visit www.english-heritage.org.uk

F E AT U R E

Get Involved at Kenwood Volunteers are an essential part of the team at Kenwood. English Heritage is always looking for enthusiastic, reliable people who are interested in helping all our visitors enjoy Kenwood. You don’t need to have any particular experience or qualifications to volunteer. There are many different opportunities - whoever you are and whatever you do there will be a role that is right for you. Volunteers will receive full training, access to facilities at the restored Kenwood dairy and opportunities to develop skills which can help in all aspects of your life. There will also be interesting workshops and social events throughout the year. Find out more at www.english-heritage.org.uk/volunteering or email our volunteer.enquiries@english-heritage.org.uk if you have any other questions.

Free Entry

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THE NATIONAL WEDDING SHOW Spring 2014 Ticket Offer

21st -23rd FEBRUARY 2014, OLYMPIA LONDON

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ake a front row seat at the unmissable Catwalk Show, which presents the latest bridal trends and wedding themes from the hottest designers, boutiques and high street brands. A colourful array of bridesmaid dresses, groomswear, flower girl, page boy and mother of the bride outfits, make the Catwalk Show an unforgettable experience for the entire wedding party. The National Wedding Show features the largest collection of wedding dresses under one roof, browse over 1,000 styles and try on dream dresses in the Boutique and Designer Areas, in spacious changing rooms with no appointments neccessary. There is something to suit every style, shape and budget. Make the most of the show’s exciting live features, where a host of industry experts share their top tips on hair, beauty and styling, as well as practical advice to make your big day perfect in every way. Whether you are looking for a theme for your wedding flowers or a breathtaking centrepiece, the Designer Flower Market brings together the best in designer floristry. Discover a rainbow of colours and beautiful blooms, together with expert advice and demonstrations from a host of top florists. Meet experts from the nation’s favourite high street brands including John Lewis, Debenhams, House of Fraser, Marks & Spencer, Slaters, Virgin, Sandals, Thomas Cook, and Moss Bros, who will all be on hand to help with everything from gift lists and suit hire to planning a destination wedding and booking a honeymoon hideaway. Round off an exciting day in the Afternoon Tea Room in the Vintage Area, where you can treat yourself and your bridal party to tea and cake, or The Champagne Bar, where with a glass of bubbly in hand, you can relax and raise a toast to your future happiness. Or you could enjoy the A-list treatment by bagging yourself VIP tickets.

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Plan the day of your dreams at the UK’s biggest wedding show this spring. With over 250 wedding experts, you are sure to find everything you need to plan your big day at The National Wedding Show. This luxury experience includes fast track entrance, reserved seating at the Catwalk Show, unlimited access to the stylish VIP Lounge, a complimentary glass of bubbly and an exclusive box full of luxe beauty products to pamper yourself in the build up to your big day. Life Magazines have teamed up with The National Wedding Show to offer FIVE lucky readers and their ‘plus one’ the chance to attend 2014’s most prestigious wedding event, absolutely free! To be in with a chance, email your answer to the following question to nationalweddingshow@oceanmedia.co.uk quoting LIFE MAGAZINES COMPETITION with your name and address.

How many wedding experts will be at The National Wedding Show? a)Over 150 b)Over 250 c)Over 350 If you are picked you will receive a FREE pair of tickets. Tickets are valid any day and are limited to one pair per winner.

Special Offer Don’t worry, if you are not a lucky winner, you can still book in advance and save £2.50 off the door price*. To book, visit www.nationalweddingshow.co.uk or call the ticket hotline on 0844 8740 486. Bring a group of four or more and take advantage on our fantastic group savings. *Advance ticket prices revert to the on the door price of £18.50 at midnight the day before opening

www.facebook.com/nationalweddingshow @nationalweddingshow /#TNWS

Your last single Valentines...

Valentines Dating Tips… • If you get invited, go! It could just be a one-off encounter, or you may even make a lifelong friend, but what if you find your life partner? What do you have to lose? • Fail to prepare, prepare to fail – This applies to all aspects of dating. A well groomed appearance, plenty of conversation topics and a great location are absolutely key. Ensure the basics are fool proofed and the chemistry will deal with itself. • Have confidence in the qualities you have to offer a partner, knowing yourself well never fails to be attractive. • Listen and be attentive, you might be missing something…or someone. • No one is perfect, be honest about your flaws and embrace others imperfections, it could open your eyes to a whole world of missed opportunities. After all, everyone has something unique but equally great to offer. • Be honest. Don’t spend hours with someone if you’re not interested in a relationship with them. Equally, you should handle rejection gracefully. Of course this can be hurtful, but what’s meant to be will always find its way…so sit back and enjoy the journey!

At Webb & Carter Global Ltd we match the world’s most eligible, single individuals. Our approach is unique, our expertise unrivalled and our results speak for themselves. We pride ourselves on 3 core values: Discretion, Integrity and Delivery. We understand the importance of confidence so we build strong, interpersonal relationships with our clients to ensure we can offer all members a truly personalised service. If you would like to know more about how we work, or if you would like to enquire about joining our network of eligible, single Members please contact us to arrange a consultation at your convenience.

Tel: +44 (0207) 859 4659 Address: 15 Stratton Street, Greenpark House, Mayfair, London, W1J 8LQ Email: info@webbandcarter.com www.webbandcarter.com

C OV E R S TO RY

Why people use dating agencies We explore why in today’s career focused society a plethora of romance starved, eligible singles put the necessity of a Personal Matchmaker alongside that of a Personal Assistant.

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C OV E R S TO RY

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he social stigma attached to matchmaking has dissipated in recent years; well-heeled singles view personal introduction agencies as a fundamental lifestyle accessory. Investing in such an extravagance with the aim of finding like-minded, self-sufficient partners is becoming more frequent. The romantic ideal of encountering your future spouse at a social event is less rational today. The realists of our society now accept the facts; that structured or fixed dating is often more successful. Holly Haines, Head Matchmaker for London based personal introduction agency Webb & Carter Global Ltd, believes a gargantuan increase in their membership is a result of the challenges faced when trying to meet individuals with genuine and honourable intentions. “Online dating agencies serve a great purpose; they deal with a mass market of average earning, average looking singletons. They are not for the time precious, professional singles who adorn the books of agencies like Webb & Carter. Our clients do not have the time to invest when embarking on dating as a process of elimination. A diligent approach to ensuring introductions to individuals who share common values, life aspirations and relationship goals is an intricate process which involves one hundred percent dedication. As romantic specialists, this is precisely what we offer” Not surprisingly, such services come at a price. It would appear though that for the clientele enrolled that this is not about money. Founder of Webb and Carter Kimberley Marshall suggests that her clients wouldn’t think twice about hiring a head-hunter in business and questions why their personal lives should be any less important. “Often, our clients have been consumed by their careers for some time, they are entrepreneurial professionals, and although they regularly network so meet people all the time, they lack access to the types of individuals who want a committed and meaningful relationship, this is why using a personal head-hunter has become an imperative stepping stone towards an increase in their social status” Other types of dating can be uncomfortably intrusive, particularly for those with significant influence or authority. Displaying a public profile as a ‘single looking for love’ can be exposing as can trawling bars to cherry-pick eligible singles. It would be fair to conclude that the discretion of meeting someone in a dignified manner is the main appeal of elite dating agencies. So why then, has history seen generations of high net worth individuals find love without the need for companies like Webb & Carter? Marshall suggests that the expectations of the modern day singleton are quixotic and therefore it is necessary to manage this skilfully. “We must remember that we are not perfect, and that by expecting others to accept our imperfections we must be prepared to embrace theirs. Whether these are physical shortcomings or otherwise, we will

find someone who looks beyond external appearance and recognises other attributes. After three or four dates members with unattainable demands tend to accept the need for compromise, this is something we can comfortably manage. If your looks really are the main hindrance to your dating success we will send you on the right path towards the necessary services”. Rationalisation for the necessity of matchmaking services can be found in the comparatively different expectations amongst men and women. It is universally acknowledged that our biological makeup dictates that females want to a provider and males have a need for physical attractiveness, (the latter is obviously subjective). Men want to procreate a good looking legacy whereas women don’t want to marry down; they want to be looked after. Unless these individuals are well networked and time rich then it can be like finding a needle in a haystack. Marshall insists that although Webb & Carter is very well networked that she would still expect a level of realism from her clients. “It has been said that we have performed miracles, but sadly we don’t have a magic wand, I would always advise a review of your partner preferences if you were struggling to find your ideal. Often broadening your brief is the key to finding the one”. Haines from Webb & Carter considers finding love to be essential to ones wellbeing. She believes that if this means using an introduction agency because you are time poor, lack confidence or fail to meet the right types of people then why not. As you would expect Valentines is one of the busiest periods for matchmaking, perhaps because it serves as a reminder to those of us who are single, that we are still very much alone. Haines encourages those that have found themselves to be unlucky in love to have confidence in themselves and to exert self-respect. This applies whether you chose to commence the search solo or with the help of an introduction agency. “Take the stock market for example, if a particular stock manifests confidence the general public are more likely to invest, if we apply this theory to dating you must exude confidence in yourself in order for others to invest their time and efforts in getting to know you, if you take any advice let it be this. Webb & Carter Global Limited are a bespoke matchmaking agency, catering to the most discerning of individuals looking for committed relationships.

They would love to help so please do visit their website www.webbandcarter.com or call 0207 859 4659 to register your interest in a complimentary consultation.

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F E AT U R E

A truly magnificent setting awaits you at Temple Golf Club

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onveniently located in the heart of the Thames Valley but less than an hour from the centre of London, Temple is beautifully situated in unspoilt landscape and enjoys extensive panoramic views of the River Thames and Chiltern Hills beyond. The view from the 1st tee is simply breathtaking.

The course layout, designed by Willie Park Junior, is challenging and interesting; difficult enough to test the low handicap player but friendly enough to encourage those with higher handicaps. Importantly in this busy day and age and with time constraints and family commitments in mind, we aim for 3 hour two-ball rounds and a maximum of 4 hours for a four-ball. Whatever the season, the course always has something very special to offer: Spring has its many shades of green as the leaves burst into life. Summer brings a stunning myriad of colour with the wild flowers including several rare species of wild orchids. Autumn is utterly beautiful with the varying russet shades of the countless specimen trees on the course creating a stunning backdrop and, due to the fact that it is built on chalk, Temple is an excellent winter golfing venue. Amazingly, no play has been lost to rain in 2014. The original clubhouse is still in use today and provides a truly magnificent setting for a quiet drink, a snack or a meal. The clubhouse is charming, attractive and comfortable and the Club prides itself on providing a friendly

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and efficient service in a relaxed atmosphere and comfortable surroundings. Temple welcomes new members and visitors especially from the London area. The Club is less than 10 mins from Maidenhead train station which is destined to be a Crossrail terminus. The Club also offers a limited number of corporate memberships. To enquire about our current membership offer or to make a casual booking for a round of golf please contact us (see main advert for details). Readers of the “Life” series are entitled to a preferred green fee which represents a £10 saving against RRP during the main playing season. Just quote “Life” when you contact us. If you haven’t yet played at Temple please call us to make the necessary arrangements for your visit. Whilst we can’t guarantee the weather, one thing that you can be sure of, is that a warm welcome awaits you. Temple is more than “just a golf club”. The beautiful setting, great attention to detail, wonderful hospitality, excellent value for money and friendly service guarantee an enjoyable and truly memorable visit. For more information please call 01628 824795 Temple Golf Club, Henley Road, Hurley, Berkshire, SL6 5LH email: secretary@templegolfclub.co.uk www.templegolfclub.co.uk

Electric Heating from Sunflow Now is a great time to scrap old and inefficient heating systems. HEATING FOR A LIFETIME Brilliantly engineered with a 10 year guarantee (yes even on the controls) our heaters are built to last - 40 years plus! No need for any servicing so no waiting in for a plumber. Just think of the time you’ll save and the elimination of the yearly cost of servicing or insurance. Our incredible design saves a tremendous amount of space so you don’t have to fill your walls with conventional radiators. With no pipes required, Sunflow heaters offer great flexibility for positioning and they look superb, excellently finished in the colour of your choice. We can alter power ratings and sizing to suit virtually any room.

TAKE CONTROL Knowing that each room can be individually time and temperature controlled means peace of mind for those of us managing energy on a budget. In the depths of winter, unused rooms can have radiators

turned off or just ticking over at whatever temperature you want. They can be timed to come on or go off at the precise times you specify. Remember, every degree less can produce substantial savings on energy bills.

AM EFFAZIN ICI GLY EN T

Lots of our customers have THE COLOUR replaced night storage, gas, oil OF YOUR CHOICE and LPG systems with Sunflow heaters. They will work alongside economy 7 and economy 10 - see our brochure for more information. Sunflow has fully qualified Gas Safe engineers and electricians with E LLY BL a great deal of experience in FUOLLA R replacing old systems. We renew NT water heating and have a range CO of options. Sunflow is a family business and we care about our customers. We undertake quality assessments and can provide free quotes for any requirement - whether you require one heater or want to examine options for the whole house.

& IVE M CT I SL RA T AT

“I have just had my electricity usage statement for the year and it has gone from an average of 18.91 kW a day to 7.02 kW which is pretty spectacular. I’m very pleased.” J.S. - Somerset

For your FREE brochure call our 24hr Brochure Line on: 0800 158 8270 Any questions? Call Suzanne on 0800 158 8272

Reg. No.528940

EV E N TS

KIM MCCARTY FABRICATED BLUE WATERCOLOUR ON PAPER - 20X22IN

EMILIE CLARK UNTITLED (EHR-90), FROM SWEET CORRUPTIONS WATERCOLOUR & GRAPHITE ON PAPER - 15.3 X 13INC

GRIFFIN GALLERY EXHIBITION

‘Water + Colour’

13th FEBRUARY – 14th MARCH 2014 GRIFFIN GALLERY, 21 EVESHAM STREET, LONDON W11 4AJ

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West London’s Griffin Gallery is challenging the traditional preconceptions of watercolour in their new exhibition ‘Water + Colour’, running until 14th March 2014.

rom award-winners to international exhibitors, nine artists from major institutions all over the world have been hand-picked by Becca Pelly-Fry, Director of the Griffin Gallery, to showcase new contemporary techniques in watercolour. This selling group exhibition showcases work using the breadth and variety of contemporary water-based colour, including ink, watercolour and acrylic. Watercolour is often seen as a difficult and unpredictable medium, best suited to delicate landscape paintings, mainly due to its translucency and ability to portray light. Educated at some of the best art institutions in the world, from the Royal College of Art to the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, these artists have reworked this muchmisunderstood medium to create surprising and spectacular contemporary artwork in a range of styles. ‘Water + Colour’ brings together accomplished and talented artists of all ages. American artists Kim McCarty, exhibitor in the Museum of Modern Art, New York; Laura Ball, who has work in the Denver Art Museum; Amy Park, an art scholar from the School of Art Institute of Chicago; and Emilie Clark, who won a residency at the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens, come together with UK artists including; Peter HaslamFox, winner of the UK’s Young Artists Award; Barbara Nicholls, exhibitor in collections across London, Milan and Berlin; Freya Douglas-Morris, exhibitor in Italy, Spain and Germany and Stephanie Tuckwell, first prize winner for watercolours at the Royal West of England Academy for ‘Water + Colour’. Griffin Gallery is also delighted to be showing the spectacular abstract work of

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Alf Löhr, an established German artist based mainly in London and recently appointed as a Senior Fellow at the University of Wales Institute of Cardiff. Becca Pelly-Fry, Director of Griffin Gallery and curator of the exhibition, says: “Griffin Gallery is proud to be inviting such a range of watercolour artists to exhibit their work. We are interested in demonstrating the properties of watercolour, and showing what is possible with the medium. These artists all exhibit great skill and dexterity with a medium that is traditionally seen as very difficult to master. What I like about the work on show here is that each artist really uses and makes the most of the unique qualities of watercolour.” Griffin Gallery aims to showcase and support upcoming and undiscovered contemporary artists, and is excited to announce such an innovative exhibition exploring a much misunderstood contemporary medium. The gallery is an exciting art space located in West London at the head office of some of the world’s finest artist materials; Winsor & Newton, Liquitex and Conté à Paris. The gallery uses its independence to support emerging artists and explore the cutting edge of contemporary art and craftsmanship. http://griffingallery.co.uk Twitter: https://twitter.com/GalleryGriffin Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griffingalleryuk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/GriffinGalleryUK

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THE GORDON RAMSAY GROUP OPENS

LONDON HOUSE IN BATTERSEA’S HISTORIC SQUARE

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London House, the latest addition to South West London’s leafy Battersea Square, due to open its doors in February 2014.

ffering a relaxed and welcoming dining experience, this neighbourhood venue specialises in serving quality modern-European dishes, as well as boasting signature cocktails and London brewed bars from a separate, theatre-style bar. Irish born Anna Kelly will head up the London House kitchen, bringing a wealth of international experience from some of the finest kitchens in Ireland, France, Spain, London and, most recently, Los Angeles, with Gordon Ramsay mentoring along the way. Her menus will focus on seasonal produce and reflect her absolute passion for local British and artisan ingredients. The main dining room will use a neutral pallet of soft grey and slate blue, with sophisticated wooden floors and tables teamed with comfortable leather banquettes. The destination drinks lounge will feature sofas and stools made from warm fabrics, with textural accents creating a chic yet cosy ‘sitting room’ and the perfect backdrop to enjoy a cocktail beside the eco-fuel fireplace. London House will be located at 10 Battersea Square London SW11 3RA. Open Tuesday to Sunday for Dinner; Friday to Sunday for Lunch. For further details, visit: www.gordonramsay.com/LondonHouse

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ABOUT THE GORDON RAMSAY GROUP The Gordon Ramsay Group comprises the restaurant business of acclaimed chef, restaurateur, TV personality and author Gordon Ramsay. Run by Managing Director Stuart Gillies, it employs more than 700 people in the UK including its support office in Catherine Place, London and 11 restaurants. The Group has a total of 25 restaurants globally and 7 Michelin stars, with international restaurants from Europe to the US and the Middle East. Originally routed in fine dining, the Group has expanded to include more casual fine dining sites offering a wide variety of guest experiences around the globe, such as the openings of Bread Street Kitchen and Union Street Café in London and Gordon Ramsay BurGR and Gordon Ramsay Pub & Grill in Las Vegas. Restaurant Gordon Ramsay in Chelsea is the Group’s flagship venue, which has held three Michelin-stars for more than 12 years.

For more information, please visit www.gordonramsay.com

A NEW ANGLE ON URBAN LUXURY

The London Marriott Hotel Grosvenor Square and maze, the hotel’s Gordon Ramsay restaurant, have joined forces to bring you some exclusive packages. Experience the perfect pairing of 5* luxury guest rooms and exquisite Michelin-star dining. Sushi & Steak, deluxe guest room and breakfast in maze for 2 people - from £365. Luxury 7-course market menu with wine pairing and kitchen tour, Club Lounge access and breakfast in maze for 2 people - from £595 in a Club Balcony Suite or from £625 in a 1-bedroom Club Suite. Visit MarriottGrosvenorSquare.com and experience the shape of hotels to come.

London Marriott Hotel Grosvenor Square, London W1K 6JP MarriottGrosvenorSquare.com For hotel bookings T: 020 7493 1232 Freephone: 0800 221222

For Gordon Ramsay dining reservations maze: 020 7107 0000 maze Grill: 020 7495 2211

For Luggage Room reservations T: 020 7514 1507 E: info@LuggageRoom.co.uk

Availability and full experience details can be found on the website. All rates include VAT.

F E AT U R E

Size Really Does Matter! H

ow often have we heard that before but in the world of bespoke shirt tailoring has a phrase been more appropriate? With over 75% of men (or their partners) purchasing shirts that don’t really fit them isn’t it about time to reverse this statistic and oh, by the way, look and feel better. Finicky founder, David Roux de Buisson, spent many years traveling abroad with easy access to bespoke, yet affordable shirts and wanted to share this experience – and all from the click of a button in a customer’s home or office. David’s team of highly skilled tailors can create any shirt from a quintessential classic (no wardrobe is complete without at least one simple white shirt…) to flamboyant colourful masterpieces. The wide and varied choice of quality fabrics and style options ensures each shirt is as individual as the wearer. Unlike with ordinary shirts where they wear you with your personally crafted Finicky shirt you wear them.

With a contemporary and easy to navigate website customers can create their own personalised shirt portfolio and only need to input their measurements once. The details are then saved for future ease of ordering. Finicky take great pride in the quality of the shirts they create and the service they provide their customers. They are so confident you will love the shirts that each one comes with a personal guarantee of a 100%, no questions asked money back guarantee. Not only do Finicky provide a great online service but personal visits to homes or offices can be arranged. Their gift vouchers are also an attractive option where recipients enjoy the Finicky experience twice by firstly receiving the voucher and subsequently when they create their own personalised, hand crafted shirt. Finicky is fast establishing itself as the bespoke tailor of choice.

For more information visit the website at www.finickyshirts.com 9 4 F E B R U A RY 2 0 1 4

A family business providing exclusive valet parking at Gatwick Airport since 1992.

Try our hotel… Our purpose built site only 3 minutes from both Terminals providing customised care for your valuable vehicles. Very competitive prices. Book online at: www.tudorrose.co.uk or telephone 01293 822844

10% Discount Code TRLM0010

RICHMOND

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F E AT U R E

H O M E & GA R D E N

COMiNG up ROsEs C

elebrating 10 years of design and supply at the very top end of the artificial flower market, Rtfact work with interior designers, property developers, businesses and private homeowners, both for UK and international clients, supplying stunning faux flowers to complement a vast range of interior styles.

creating artificial arrangements that do not look artificial. I really enjoy working with Dawn as she seems to understand what I want to create and I trust her advice. I have never been disappointed and my expectations are always exceeded” - Anoushka Feiler, Bestique, Best in show, Hampton Court Flower Show

Dawn Smith, the founder of RTfact believes that good design is always about originality, avoiding the obvious and being passionate about attention to detail. RTfact couple these qualities with expert floristry skills and use only the highest quality flowers and greenery to maintain the level of service and innovation that their clients have come to expect.

Rtfact are equally at home working with top interior designers and private home owners throughout the UK and abroad. “As we are so bespoke we can design all aspects meticulously to get the exact finish a client desires.“ The arrangements pictured above were custom designed for Annick Knutsen, the containers were covered in faux ostrich skin to perfectly complement the interior of her dining space.

Dawn and her buying team travel around the world to seek out the best faux flowers available and artefacts rarely found on the high street. It is this drive and passion that has enabled her to maintain and grow a loyal customer base which now includes a very famous top London department store, TV production companies, The Tate Galleries and a royal residence

“ I found Dawn a pleasure to work with, her attention to detail is second to none, she comes up with fabulous ideas and her manner is warm and approachable. The arrangements have been absolutely stunning each time, adding elegance and wow factor to my home. The whole team work well together, ensuring a fabulous service for their clients” - Annick Knutsen

Every commission is different and all aspects of environment, style and budget are considered during the design process. Dawn says” I love it when a client comes up with a challenge. We recently had to create a ‘living’ wall effect in a dark courtyard space – four stories up, balanced on scaffolding!

“I love seeing the client reaction once the flowers are in place “says Dawn “ I’m a perfectionist and so I don’t just want the client to like what I’ve done, I want them to love it. After all their flowers are going to be looked at every day and will last for many years to come’”

The client was delighted: “I find working with RTfact Flowers hugely reassuring as they have expertise in 9 6 F E B R U A RY 2 0 1 4

RTfact have come a long way in ten years but the vision has always stayed the same – To create something different. A fresh approach to artificial flowers.

For Interior design enquiries, Corporate hire or bespoke projects contact us on 01372 470580 or info@rtfactflowers.co.uk. Arrangements are also available to buy online @www.rtfactflowers.co.uk or please visit our store 22, The Parade, Claygate, Surrey KT10 ONU FEBRUARY 2014 77

At RTfact we have specialised in the art of artificial flowers and greenery for over ten years working on bespoke projects with interior designers, property developers and private home owners in the UK and abroad, creating beautiful flower arrangements and adding those all important finishing touches to perfectly enhance your interior. At RTfact specialised in the art of arFor more information and to buy onlinewe visithave www.rtfactflowers.co.uk. tificial flowers and greenery for over ten

22 The Parade Claygate Surrey KT10

RTfact 22 The Parade Claygate Surrey KT10 ONU Tel: 01372 470580

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Wall-to-wall imagination Fantastic wallpaper murals. Any wall, any size, any space. Simply choose a mural from the thousands available, enter your wall measurements and resize the design to fit your wall. Email: hello@ohpopsi.com Tel: 0161 923 0234. * To receive your 20% discount, simply enter voucher code LL0214 at the checkout. Offer ends 31st March 2014.

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EV E N TS

20th – 23

FEBRUARrd Y 2014,

SOMERS ET HOUSE, STRAND

London Fashion Weekend In the heart of London, Somerset House plays host to Britain’s biggest bi-annual consumer fashion showcase.

V

odafone London Fashion Weekend is your chance to experience first-hand insider knowledge and style advice from London Fashion Week’s most famous British brands. As soon as the last model has stepped off the catwalk at London Fashion Week, Somerset House is instantly transformed into a unique 4-day designer shopping and fashion experience. Shopping Prepare yourself for exclusive offers from a selection of pop-up shops and designer shopping from up to 80 of the country’s best-loved brands. Designers will be zoned into different sections including accessories, denim & outerwear, designer ready to wear and contemporary ready to wear. Previous season designers included Joseph, Browns Labels for Less, Pringle of Scotland, Paige Denim, Maria Francesca Pepe – February’s full line up will be confirmed in the coming weeks, keep watching the website for full listings. Tote Bag The exclusively designed Vodafone London Fashion Weekend tote bag always turns heads… and sells out. This season’s limited edition bag is designed by the iconic British designer, Julien Macdonald - a true collector’s item. Catwalks Get the real LFW experience at the sell-out catwalk shows, hosted in the official British Fashion Council Show Space. ‘Trend’ shows will preview trends for the season ahead while ‘Designer’ shows will feature four key brands. Brands confirmed for the catwalk schedule include Julien Macdonald, who will be showcasing his crystal dripping, floor-sweeping SS14 collection at 2pm and 6.30pm on Saturday 22nd Feb. Amanda Wakeley is the second catwalk designer confirmed – known for her glamorous evening and cocktail dresses, her collection will be previewed at 4pm on Thursday 20th February. 9 8 F E B R U A RY 2 0 1 4

Talks All ticket holders will have access to a packed programme of industry talks, offering advice and insight on a variety of topics including trend discussions, beauty tips or advice on getting into the industry. Previous seasons have welcomed the likes of Henry Holland, Hilary Alexander, ELLE Editors and the Head of Design at Topshop – keep watching the website for February’s full schedule. Ticket Prices Customers can buy their tickets in advance of the event via the website – prices start from £20: There may be a limited number of tickets available to buy on the door. However we cannot guarantee this – it completely depends on the capacity within the venue at that time. Therefore we strongly recommend visitors book their tickets in advance, as tickets are extremely limited. Tickets can be bought via the website: www.londonfashionweekend.co.uk or by 0871 230 1558. Vip The Fashionable Way Get your hands on Vodafone London Fashion Weekend’s LUXE ticket; a premium package that’s been curated to offer you the optimum fashion experience. After being welcomed with a champagne and canapé reception, you’ll be able to relax in our contemporary LUXE lounge. You’ll have exclusive access to the LUXE boutique where you’ll be able to try on and buy signature pieces from our catwalk show designers – not to mention a reserved front row seat at one of our Trend catwalk shows! Opening Times Thursday 20th February 2014: 11am – 9pm Friday 21st February 2014: 11am- 8pm Saturday 22nd February 2014: 10am-7pm Sunday 23rd February 2014: 11am-6pm www.londonfashionweekend.co.uk

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

Triniti DERMATOLOGIST, DR ARIEL HAUS INTRODUCES

3 HIGH-TECH FACIAL SKIN TREATMENTS IN 1 SESSION

Non-invasive, effective and providing continual results... Improves tone, texture, lines and skin firmness in one transforming treatment, minus the down time!

before treatment

after treatment

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razilian Dermatologist, Dr Ariel Haus explains the features of Triniti, which is a technologically advanced laser skin treatment by global aesthetic leaders Syneron Candela. Triniti combines three of today’s most effective technologies for colour correction, fine lines and deep wrinkles to achieve flawless skin. The 3 treatment technologies of the Triniti feature combined bi-polar radio frequency and light energies which precisely heat tissue within the targeted treatment area, to stimulate improvement within the skin. Significant visible improvement can be seen over a course of 3-5 treatments, with a personalised treatment plan designed for each patient’s skin needs.

before treatment

after treatment

wrinkles, and improves the skin texture – skin becomes smoother with increased elasticity. WHAT’S THE ‘OUCH FACTOR’? Topical anesthetic cream is applied prior to treatment to ensure no discomfort and most patients undergo the procedure and return to normal activities post treatment. WHO CAN HAVE THE TREATMENT? Triniti is safe and effective for most skin types and colours.

Dr Haus says, “Being able to offer my patients the ultimate skin technology that Triniti offers allows them the opportunity to walk away with skin that they only remembered from their youth. It gives me great pleasure to see the difference in not just their outer appearance but their inner confidence too; they step out of my clinic with a bounce in their step.” EACH TRINITI TREATMENT SESSION INCLUDES olour Correction treats spider veins, age spots, uneven skin tone and sun C damaged skin. Firmness - ReFirme Targets the telltale signs of aging, including jowl & neck sagginess, under eye droopiness, sagging brow lines and nasolabial folds (the lines that run from nose to outer corners of the mouth). Wrinkles - Matrix IR Fractional Wrinkle Treatment Treats lines, 1 0 0 F E B R U A RY 2 0 1 4

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE? The treatment is 40-60 minutes per session for the face plus 15-30 minutes extra if the neck area is treated. HOW MANY SESSIONS WOULD I NEED? Each patient has differing needs, but typically three to five sessions spaced three to four weeks apart are required for optimum results.

FOR APPOINTMENTS TELEPHONE 020 7323 6559 10 Harley Street, London W1G 9PF www.drhausdermatology.com

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

QA &

In this month’s article Healthy Balance Integrated Medicine practitioners share their advice on your health issues. This issue, Steven Fullagar and Amanda Hart contribute. Q: I have been feeling generally quite achy and sore recently. I am wondering if this is just because it is winter and I am getting older or whether I should be more worried?

Q: I have enrolled in a weight-loss programme (again!) and I feel I need some extra help in sticking to it this time. Do you have any suggestions to make this year a success?

A. Whilst it is not uncommon to hear patients blame the wintery

A. Many people find it difficult to stick to diets as they end up

weather or their age making aches and pains worse, neither can necessarily be said to be the culprit. Aches and pains are likely to be experienced by most of us at some point in our lives. Usually these symptoms can be put down to a bout of flu or an overambitious new exercise regimen. However, in some cases they may be a clue to an underlying health issue that needs further investigation.

feeling deprived. Successful and sustainable weight loss requires the right mind-set as well as a very healthy eating plan. Healthy changes that are easy to adopt long term work better than drastic quick fix diets. And let’s not forget the importance of increasing activity.

So if you feel you are not getting better and you are unsure what has caused your aches then you would be sensible to make an appointment to see your primary healthcare physician. Sometimes simple blood tests will reveal the answer. For example, having said that your age or winter are not necessarily to blame, it is possible they can be contributory factors in putting you at risk of vitamin D deficiency which itself can be a cause aches and pains. A visit to a registered osteopath or physiotherapist can be a good place to start to help establish if they are being caused a biomechanical problem. Your GP is always a good port of call, especially if there are other symptoms that appeared at the same time.

To understand what healthy eating really means and to curb cravings, consider seeing a nutritionist who is registered with BANT (British Association for Applied Nutrition and Nutritional Therpay). A few sessions of hypnotherapy incorporating Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) can also help to get you into the right frame of mind to start your dietary changes and to keep you on track. It can also help to reinforce your ‘why power’ – your motivation for making the changes – which is usually far more effective than ‘will power’! Hypnotherapy helps many people to reach their weight loss goals, where other methods on their own may have failed, and it can also help to improve eating habits permanently. Good luck!

Steven Fullagar is an osteopath and naturopath and the director of Healthy Balance.

Amanda Hart is an APHP registered clinical hypnotherapist and BACP registered psychologist specialising in reducing phobias and negative habits.

The information in this column is intended as a guide only and not treatment itself. If you are worried about a health problem please see your health care practitioner for detailed advice. For any further information or questions please contact; Healthy Balance, 51 High Street, Great Missenden, Bucks HP16 0AL 1 0 2 F E B R U A RY 2 0 1 4

www.healthy-balance.co.uk Telephone: 01494 867272

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rom allergies to arthritis and sports injuries to stress management, our practitioners have the expertise to meet your health needs. We optimise your treatment whether you seek a conventional medical pathway, a drug free approach, or a combination. Easy access to evidence-based medical practices Holistic, integrated healthcare with a multi-disciplinary approach 41 minutes train journey from London Marylebone Why pay London prices?

Private GP | Allergy Management | Osteopathy | Physiotherapy Dermatology | Nutrition | Hypnotherapy | CBT | Counseling Chiropody & Podiatry | Acupuncture | Yoga and much much more... www.healthy-balance.co.uk

51 High Street Great Missenden HP16 0AL 01494 867272

State-of-the-art facilities | Private car park | Extensive opening hours | Health insurance welcome

Learn to

Swim

Reception

Build water confidence

All our lessons follow the ASA National Teaching Plan.

Stage 1

Begin to explore front and back crawl kicks

Stage 2

Learn front and back crawl arm actions. Introduction to front crawl breathing techniques

Stage 3

Front crawl breathing techniques along with breast stroke kicks

Stage 4

Gain confidence in the main pool and learn butterfly kicks

Stage 5

Learn breast stroke arm actions and butterfly arm actions

Stage 6

We aim to provide high quality and accessible swimming lessons in a safe and enjoyable environment. Group and individual lessons available, working to ASA’s

Learn Rhythmical breathing and strengthening kicks

Stage 7

Learn techniques for breast stroke and front crawl timing

National Teaching Plan.

Gold Medallists need to start somewhere! Availability may vary across centres

Balham Leisure Centre

Putney Leisure Centre

020 8772 9577

020 8785 0388

enquiries@balhamleisurecentre.co.uk

Rookie Lifeguarding

Water Polo

Dryburgh Road, Putney, SW15 1BL enquiries@putneyleisurecentre.co.uk

Latchmere Leisure Centre

Tooting Leisure Centre

020 7207 8004

020 8333 7555

enquiries@latchmereleisurecentre.co.uk

enquiries@tootingleisurecentre.co.uk

Burns Road, Battersea, SW11 5AD

Synchronised Swimming

Greaves Place, Tooting, SW17 0NE

Adult lessons are also available. In partnership with

Managed by DC Leisure on behalf of Wandsworth Council

DCL57667

Elmfield Road, Balham, SW17 8AN

Stages 8-10 Competitive Swimming

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

A Hollywood smile is easily attainable

D

ecay of human teeth is as old as mankind. From the earliest times, humans have been plagued by dental disease. Over the centuries, tooth loss has made the lives of the poor and the monarchs miserable alike. Louis XIV of France (“The Sun King”), George Washington and the victims of the ongoing wars were all known to have suffered from periodontal disease. Maybe history would have taken another turn if dental implants had been introduced earlier, since our decisions are largely influenced by our physical well-being. Tooth loss leads to serious aesthetic and functional problems. Implant dentistry however provides new possibilities to replace missing teeth, restore proper speaking and biting function as well as facial aesthetics and thus improve the quality of patients’ life.

the original root and over time, this will bond with the jawbone. Once the new root has fully healed, a replacement tooth is created to match your natural teeth and is fitted into place. Dental implants can replace single or multiple teeth, stabilizing or even replacing dentures. Later this artificial root functions like a natural tooth.

Per-Ingvar Brånemark, a Swedish orthopedic surgeon and research professor, touted as the “father of modern dental implantology “ performed his first successful implant on a human subject in 1965 in Göteborg. Previously he had discovered that inserts made from titanium could be safely conjoined with human bone tissue. Since then, millions of people have benefited from the professor’s landmark methods and implantology has become a routine procedure in the field of dentistry. The new technology spread all over the world in the 1980s and 90s rapidly. Only in Germany one million implantations are performed annually. Today dental implants not only involve scientific discovery, research and understanding, but also application in clinical practice. Due to the high quality of the material, the process of implant placement is practically uncomplicated.

Dental implants may be an option for everyone among 18-98. The ideal candidate for dental implants is over 18 years of age because the growth of human jawbones finishes by the time a person reaches his/her late teens. There is no upper age limit. Although, there are some conditions and diseases that can affect whether dental implants are right for you. For example, implantation is not recommended for those with chronic, uncontrolled diabetes, or who take steroids.

Implantation helps save healthy teeth by eliminating the need to grind down tooth tissue, as required by traditional bridgework. Dental implants are artificial roots made from titanium which take the place of 1 0 4 F E B R U A RY 2 0 1 4

The implantation procedure takes about 6-8 minutes which is generally preceded by an X-ray or a CT examination. Then the oral surgeon fixes the screw into your mouth that acts as an artificial root for the crown. The healing period varies depending upon individual cases and can take about 2-6 months. After the implantation temporary crowns are used which will be replaced with permanent crowns later.

Implantcenter Clinic - at 71 Grays Inn Road London WC1X 8TR - offers a wide range of oral health care services, from routine checkups, fitting braces, fillings to treating oral disease, executing multi implantation, bone transplantation or full mouth reconstruction. Our implantologists carry out treatments according to the leading technology and standards so you can experience the fascinating results of implantation. To book a consultation, call 020 7242 0037 or 020 3411 9910. www.implantcenter.com

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

TOP 10 TIPS TO HELP YOUR KIDS EAT MORE HEALTHILY

I

n modern times we are becoming increasingly aware of the shortcomings of the foods we are feeding our children. Surveys show that children and teenagers are eating higher levels of salt, sugar, and saturated fat than government guidelines recommend, and are failing to reach the five-a-day target for fruit and vegetable portions. This means that they are potentially missing out on vital nutrients that contribute to optimum development. So, in practical terms, what can parents do to ensure their children develop healthy eating habits? Here are some tips to follow when considering your children and their nutrition: Eat with your children. Children learn by example — make mealtimes enjoyable: set the table, discuss the day’s events, turn off the TV and put on some music or enjoy the silence. ‘Family’ eating not only promotes home-cooked meals, it also fosters a sense of routine and encourages social interaction — all of which lead to better eating habits later in life. Make food fun! Experiment with new foods and make meals as colourful and as rich in variety as possible. We are naturally ‘turned on’ by diversity — so the more visually stimulating a meal appears, and the more textures it incorporates, the more likely your children will be to tuck in! Include two portions of vegetables in their evening meal, and provide fruit or a fruit-based pudding for dessert. This will help ensure that your children get three out of five servings of their recommended five-a-day at dinnertime Encourage your children to drink water or sugar-free diluting juice between meals. This will help prevent dehydration, which can lead to constipation and poor concentration. If you have a fussy eater in the household, don’t give up hope. Try serving the same foods in different forms — for example, people

1 0 6 F E B R U A RY 2 0 1 4

who dislike the texture of broccoli often find it more palatable in a sauce or soup. I nclude lean meat or another protein in every meal. This will help keep your children fuller for longer and will discourage snacking later in the day/evening. Red meat will also provide iron — which is particularly important for girls, who tend to eat less red meat of their own accord, yet whose iron needs increase as they begin menstruation. S erve oily fish twice a week (but no more). These are a rich source of omega oils, which can help keep heart and mind healthy; try salmon, fresh tuna and grilled sardines. If your children find the taste too overwhelming, add seeds to their breakfast cereals for plant versions of these oils. Pack a healthy lunchbox. ‘Disguise’ vegetables in sandwich fillings, vary the fillings, provide plain yogurt and a piece of fruit that’s easy to eat. Children can be very particular about fruit. Aim to give them small apples, bananas and grapes, which are easy to hold, peel and eat. M ake sure your children eat breakfast. This will ensure a steady supply of energy to get them through the morning, help maintain attention span and discourage snacking. Fortified breakfast cereals can also be a good source of iron and B vitamins. Minerals to consider .. Two particularly important minerals for school-aged children and teenagers are calcium and iron, which help strengthen teeth and bones and prevent anaemia, poor concentration and lethargy respectively. To ensure that children’s needs are met, include milk and other dairy products, pulses, lean red meat and green leafy vegetables frequently in meals. Foods containing Vitamin C — such as orange juice — can also increase iron intake if drunk alongside iron-rich foods.

pindrop_advert_Layout 1 10/10/2013 17:18 Page 1

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H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

VICTIM RELEASE THERAPY

P

iers Day, often referred to as The Sloane Square Therapist has taken therapy in a new direction. His Victim Release Therapy has been developed over the past 8 years and is proving to be the missing part of therapy which other therapies miss. We asked Piers why it is different. ‘My Victim Release Therapy gets to the root cause of what the issue is. Most people I see in my consulting rooms are victims of something - a victim of panic attacks, depression, obesity, overeating or comfort eating, stress, smoking. I find out where the problem came from, work with the feelings attached, release them and then start dealing of all the emotions attachments. An example of this would be a client who was finding it hard to cope in the world. She was overweight rather than obese, depressed and her panic attacks were intolerable. She had tried CBT and other therapist (including Hypnotherapy) and in her case, there was no change. I worked with her to unearth the feelings that caused the problem. We then got them out leaving her feeling as if a huge weight was off her shoulders. The issues were with people from her childhood and she had never felt she was good enough and

1 0 8 F E B R U A RY 2 0 1 4

worthless – one by one we dealt with these issues and people and she was able to move on. That was 4 years ago, it took 6 sessions over a 7 week period and has not had a panic attack since. WAS THIS HYPNOTHERAPY? It involved a certain amount of eyes closed work yes, however totally different to ‘Hypnotherapy’ as such. HOW ELSE CAN YOU HELP PEOPLE? Smoking is the obvious one. I see about 250 smokers a year for a single two hour session and they become a non smoker. ‘It is as if I have never smoked’ is a common comment. And very few clients put on weight as we remove the ‘need’ to smoke. Weight Loss or recovery from Eating Disorders is also an area I enjoy – watching clients take control of their weight without the usual diets is very rewarding. WHAT AGE ARE MOST OF YOUR CLIENTS? I suppose at any one time my clients go from

10 years old upwards. I work with a variety of Teen-issues like self harming, depression and anger as well as giving confidence to help learn or pass exams. Then at the other end of the scale I get clients who are just unable to cope. Sadly anxiety and depression clients are common which is why I started looking at all the therapies as there is little help out there. Counselling is good however does not work with everyone and I was getting enquiries from those who have tried everything else – ‘the last option’ – now people are coming much earlier and I have a good relationship with GP’s as they have seen their patients coming off prescriptions. HOW DO YOU LIKE PEOPLE TO GET IN TOUCH WITH YOU. I have just moved my London clinic from Sloane Square to Neal’s Yard Remedies in the Kings Road, opposite McDonalds. I offer a Free 20 minute consultation if people want to ask questions however most of the time people prefer to ask questions on the phone and then book in. To make an appointment call 0207 225 2842 and to talk to me call 0771 600 8836.

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

I think I’ve found a lump in my breast...

What Do I Do?

It is completely understandable that you might worry about the possibility of breast cancer if you find a lump, but remember; most lumps are not cancer. The most likely cause for a lump depends on your age. Women from 20s to 30s In women from 20 to 30 a definite lump is most likely to be a fibroadenoma. These are benign lumps that can sometimes be painful or enlarge but they are not cancerous and do not turn cancerous.

Women between 40s and 50s Between 40 and 50 breast cysts becom more common. These are also entirely benign. They are collections of fluid within the breast and although they can also be painful they are not dangerous.

Women aged 30 and onwards From the age of 30 onwards the gland tissue in the breast changes and it becomes more fibrous and nodular. The way the breast feels has been described as like a scaled down packet of frozen peas and occasionally, in just the same way that frozen peas can stick together to form a clump, so breast tissue can “stick together” to form definite nodular areas. These areas are also often tender but, once again, are not a sign of cancer. The rate of breast cancer begins to rise after the age of 40 and increases with age. Of course, breast cancer can occur at any age and I have seen cases in women as young as 19 and in their early 20s, but they are very, very rare. The important message is, if you notice a change in your breast please get it checked. Let’s go through what you need to do. The first thing to do is to see your GP and explain what you have noticed. They will examine you and in some cases may suggest a further check at a different time of your menstrual cycle. Some of the nodular areas can change with the cycle and this is actually a reassuring sign. If a discrete nodular area persists or your GP finds a definite lump, or is unsure, they will refer you to a breast clinic for a full assessment by the breast team. The team should consist of several consultants working together, and includes a surgeon a radiologist and a pathologist. The investigation of any breast problem revolves around, what is called, the triple assessment. It is like doing a jigsaw puzzle; pieces (of information) are collected and put together until the whole picture (the diagnosis) becomes clear. Indeed, this is often termed “the diagnostic jigsaw”. In some cases only 2 pieces may be needed, in others 4, but 3 (the triple assessment) is most common. Let’s have a look at what the pieces are. The first specialist you meet will often be the breast surgeon. They will ask questions about your symptoms (called taking your “history”). They will also ask about previous medical problems and your family history. They will then examine both breasts. How the breast feels when it is examined is the 1 1 0 F E B R U A RY 2 0 1 4

first part of the jigsaw. If there is a definite area of change then a fine needle aspiration may be carried out. This test uses a normal sized syringe and needle. The needle is placed into the area of the breast and “jiggled” so that a small amount of material is sucked into the syringe. This is sent away to be looked at under the microscope. More commonly now a test known as a core biopsy is done. A core biopsy takes a core of breast tissue about 1.5 cm long and 2 mm in diameter. The core biopsy is carried out by first putting some local anaesthetic into the skin of the breast. Once this has worked (it is quite quick) a small nick is made in the skin to allow the core biopsy needle, attached to the biopsy “gun”, to be placed into the breast. When the “gun” is “fired” (it is painless, but does make a noise rather like a large stapler) the needle takes the sample. This is often repeated a few times. The appearance of the cells that have been removed with a fine needle aspiration, or the result of the core biopsy, is the second part of the jigsaw. The final part of the triple assessment involves taking images of the breast. In ladies under 35 an ultrasound scan is the commonest way of doing this. In ladies over 35 they will have a mammogram as well. Full field digital mammograms are the most sensitive type available at the moment. What an area of the breast looks like on a mammogram or an ultrasound scan is the third piece of the jigsaw. If the triple assessment produces the same answer at each stage the result is said to be concordant and no further tests may be needed. For example, a lump in a 30 year old lady may feel like a fibroadenoma, look like one on an ultrasound scan and a core biopsy shows pieces of a fibroadenoma. An important part of the triple assessment that is not commonly mentioned is to watch how things change (or not) with time. It would not be unusual to check things a few months later, repeating some, or all, of the assessment to make sure nothing has changed. A thorough triple assessment may actually be a quadruple assessment! Once again it should be emphasised that in the majority of cases a triple assessment (or a quadruple one) will reveal that cancer is not present. Most symptoms are age related changes or benign lumps. However, it is important that any new change is thoroughly investigated by a specialist to make absolutely sure that all is well.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Mr Simon Marsh MA MD FRCS is a Consultant Breast Surgeon at The London Breast Clinic, 108 Harley Street, London W1G 7ET. Email enquiries@108harleystreet.co.uk or visit the website at www.108harleystreet.co.uk.

108 Medical Chambers at 108 Harley Street is a consultant-led and delivered independent clinic offering the highest standards of professional care with a minimum of delay in relaxing and friendly surroundings.

MEDICAL CHAMBERS 108 HARLEY STREET LONDON WIG 7ET

The specialist clinics located at 108 Harley Street are:

The London Breast Clinic – Fully integrated breast care service for all benign and malignant disease with on site digital mammography, ultrasound, cytology and core biopsy allowing rapid diagnosis. Breast screening, genetic and family review also available on site. The London Skin Clinic – Experts offer same day consultation and surgery under local anaesthetic for conditions including melanoma, skin cancer, cysts and other benign lesions, together with diagnosis and treatment of general dermatological conditions. The Gilmore Groin and Hernia Clinic – Over 30 years’ experience of the diagnosis and treatment for sportsmen and sportswomen with Groin Disruption / Sportsman’s Groin (Gilmore’s Groin) and adductor injuries, together with herniae of all types both primary and recurrent. Both open and laparoscopic repair are available as appropriate. The London Rectal Clinic – Expert opinion and treatment of inflammatory bowel disease including ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, malignant and benign disease of the colon and rectum including rectal bleeding, haemorrhoids, pilonidal sinus, fissure and fistula. Bowel cancer screening is also available. The London Sports Injury Clinic – A cutting edge, multidisciplinary service that specialises in non surgical solutions for sports and orthopaedic injuries. In addition the clinic focuses on human performance and wellness. “You don’t have to be a professional athlete to be treated like one”. 108 X-ray and Imaging – Rapid access to full field digital mammography, ultrasound and where appropriate needle aspiration cytology or core biopsy. A full range of plain film investigations, general ultrasound including abdominal, gynaecological and small part imaging. A full breast screening service is also available.

For more information visit: www.108harleystreet.co.uk Telephone

Facsimile

Email

Web

020 7563 1234

020 7563 1212

info@108harleystreet.co.uk

www.108harleystreet.co.uk

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

London’s finest wellness destination Sometimes described as ‘London’s best kept secret’ triyoga is Europe’s largest yoga centre – with locations in Primrose Hill, Chelsea, Soho and Covent Garden – and an international reputation for excellence in yoga, Pilates, treatments and more. triyoga was founded in 2000 by former lawyer and meditation devotee Jonathan Sattin in 2000. His vision was to create the highest-quality centre incorporating true wellbeing, combining the three elements of yoga, Pilates and treatments. Now it is arguably London’s finest wellness destination, offering over 270 yoga classes of different styles and levels every week - for everyone from complete beginners to arm-balancing yogis. Each centre embraces the diversity and authenticity of yoga, offering classes in many different styles of yoga – from the more spiritual to the highly athletic. As well as Pilates and Yoga, triyoga also offers a huge range of deluxe treatments from London’s leading therapists, ranging from massage to facials, and physiotherapy to aromatherapy. In addition to an extensive schedule of weekly classes, triyoga hosts an array of workshops throughout the year led by world-renowned instructors. Guest teachers for 2014 include Tiffany Cruikshank, Kathryn Budig, Sarah Powers, Paul + Suzee Grilley, to name but a few. People travel from all over England (sometimes even further!) to attend these inspiring workshops. 1 1 2 F E B R U A RY 2 0 1 4

triyoga Chelsea, located on the famous King’s Road, is the only place in London to offer the transformative triyoga hot practice in farinfrared heat. This is a powerful, nurturing yoga sequence for all levels, facilitating safe, deep stretching and a detoxifying sweat. In one triyoga hot class, you will work and rejuvenate your entire body – cultivating balance, strength and flexibility. The far infrared heat used in triyoga hot also helps to create a very different kind of hot yoga. The body (rather than the air) is heated by far infrared waves – producing a healing, detoxifying sweat at a far more gentle intensity than other hot yoga classes. We want you to leave class feeling refreshed not depleted, with a spring in your step and a healthy glow! We also know that true wellness is not just about breaking a sweat, touching your toes, or releasing your stress – how you fuel your body matters! With that in mind, enjoy delicious meals, fresh juices, vibrant smoothies and sweet (guilt-free) treats from the organic cafés in Chelsea and Primrose Hill. After your treatment or class, you can also browse the stylish lifestyle shops in Primrose Hill, Chelsea and Soho each offering an assortment of carefully-chosen products to support your path to wellness - from athletic clothing, to yoga props, to skincare. Whether you want to strengthen ad stretch or relax and rejuvenate, triyoga is dedicated to looking after you, and somewhere everyone can belong. Try 2 weeks of unlimited yoga + mat pilates for just £20! info@triyoga.co.uk www.triyoga.co.uk 020 7483 3344

start yoga. tri now. 2 weeks for ÂŁ20* unlimited yoga + pilates classes...for everyone treatments, organic cafĂŠ + lifestyle shop at triyoga primrose hill, chelsea, soho + covent garden 020 7483 3344 www.triyoga.co.uk

* Valid for all mat classes 1 offer per person – new visitors only

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Make an entrance! How to create a welcoming hallway E

The hallway is the first room guests see in a house. Make yours warm and welcoming with our inspirational design tips and advice…

ntrance ways tend to be dark and narrow but painting them white isn’t necessarily the best option. “Hallways, especially busy family ones, can take a lot of wear of tear and white be very unforgiving, as well as cold, so a better option, is to choose a light, bright colour in a warm tone. Choose a colour that is a shade or two lighter than the main room the hallway leads to, and it will help create continuity between the two spaces. As this room is primarily a walk-through, you can afford to make a strong design statement and be bold with colour and pattern. Patterned wallpaper with a slight shine will help reflect the light, while vertical stripes can create the illusion of height. If you’re concerned about knocks and scratches, a practical option is to have painted wood panelling on the bottom of the wall, with statement wallpaper above. Feature flooring Flooring in a hallway needs to be durable but choose wisely and you can create impact while being practical too. If you have a particularly long and narrow hallway, a chequerboard effect on the floor will create the impression of width - the wider the tiles, the wider it will look. Hallway runners are a great way to inject colour, while colourful striped carpet will instantly enliven a stairway. If you have bare wooden stairs, consider painting each step a different shade of the same colour or have fun with stencils to create patterns or words. Let the light in Hallways can often be dark, so getting the lighting right is essential. If you

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have a high ceiling, a large pendant light will act as a beautiful centrepiece and be the first thing that people see when they enter your home. If the ceiling is low, pendant lights will have the effect of making the room feel smaller, so wall lights are the better option. Mirrors are a good way to reflect natural light and give the illusion of more space. A large mirror placed at the end of a hallway instantly provides depth, making a hallway feel larger. Storage solutions Hallways can easily become cluttered so finding a space for coats, keys and shoes is a must. A wooden bench with storage If you have room, offers storage as well as a useful seating area. The more floor space you can see, the larger your hallway will seem and there are lots of great wall-hung cupboards available. Make a feature Hallways may be small but that doesn’t mean you can’t create a stunning focal point. A narrow console table with a pair of lamps and mirror above makes a pretty focal point - while a vase of fresh flowers or a scented cinnamon candle will create an inviting aroma. A group of family portraits is another great way to add interest and personalise the space. Generally, it’s best to hang fewer, larger pictures as opposed to several smaller ones, as it can make the space seem more confined and cluttered. With a little imagination and the right colours, storage and lighting, you can create an inviting entrance you’ll love coming home to and will want to show off.

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www.jimmiemartin.com 77 Kensington Church Street London W8 info@jimmiemartin.com 020 79381852

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An innovative approach to interiors Chris Bicknell of Bicknell Interiors in conversation with Gill Perkins

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ntrepreneur Richard Branson once said: “A business has to be involving, it has to be fun, and it has to exercise your creative instincts.” He could easily have been talking about Bicknell Interiors, a business that works hard for clients, loves the buzz of interior design and is always looking for new ways to do things. With more than 25 years of experience in the property business, Chris & Barbara Bicknell have been running the business since 2003 and have put together a creative, professional team that offers a different perspective on the business of extending, renovating and decorating homes. “We discovered that there were very few companies offering both architectural and interior design services, even though these go hand-in-hand so well. We developed these skills and discovered that clients were really enthusiastic about working with a business that could offer a full solution – from full architectural drawings and help with planning permissions to the final selection of furniture and fabrics,” says Chris Bicknell. The business has enjoyed much success in 1 1 6 F E B R U A RY 2 0 1 4

the private client residential sector, working on anything from garden room extensions to full property renovations.“We love the variety of work,” says Nicola Humphrey, RIBA Architect.“Clients come to us with dreams and we help to make them a reality – every project is incredibly satisfying because we’ve worked hard to get all the details right, making a house into a home.” Now, the company has diversified further by launching the Bicknell Collection, a hand-picked selection of individual pieces including furniture, soft furnishings and

lighting.“We wanted to cater for those people who were looking for one or two design pieces in their home rather than a complete make-over,” says Andrea Palmer, Senior Interior Designer.“The Bicknell Collection includes pieces from well-known names such as the Designers Guild, Andrew Martin and Sahco, and we have a dedicated

website for homeowners to browse.” But, in true entrepreneur style, Bicknell Interiors isn’t standing still.“We are introducing a property pre-purchase service,” says Chris.“We have already worked with several homebuyers who want to make sure their plans and budget for extension or re-building are achievable before they make an offer on a property. We give them a full design advice service so that they can be confident of creating the home they want.” One of the most innovative residential design companies around, it’s worth keeping an eye on Bicknell Interiors to see what their next move will be. ■

01372 221800 design@bicknell-interiors.co.uk www.bicknell-interiors.co.uk www.bicknell-collection.co.uk

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Light up your home B Lighting can make a huge difference to a room, affecting how we use a space and whether it feels roomy or cosy. Here’s how to get it right…

efore installing or updating lights, think about how you use each room during the day. A lounge may double-up as an office, the children might need to do their homework on the dining table in the evening or you might use the guest bedroom as a hobby space at night. Multi-functional rooms need to offer ambient as well as task lighting, while open plan living areas may even use pools of light as ‘zones’ in the absence of walls. A flexible scheme where the focus and light levels can be adjusted throughout the day is key - dimmers are ideal as they create mood and allow the room to work from day to night. Kitchen lighting While a central pendant will provide general lighting, a kitchen requires good task lighting in work areas, especially where you’ll be cooking. Task lighting should be positioned to the side or behind where you’re working – not in front. Many modern kitchen cabinets and cooker hoods come with built-in lights but adding them to existing ones is relatively easy and needn’t be expensive. Mini fluorescent lights can be picked up at most DIY stores (an eight-watt bulb in warm white should work well) and look great when fitted underneath wall units. If you have a central pendant over a dining table, choose one with a flexible cord, which can be pulled down for task lighting when required. To avoid re-wiring, consider fitting a track system with directional lights to highlight the work surface and the sink. While they might take more work to install, ceiling downlights can be placed where needed and because they recessed won’t get covered in grease and dirt. Bathroom lighting In a bathroom, task lighting is important where you need to see clearly, but think about adding feature lighting to create atmosphere. Consider adding recessed LED 1w Lucca spotlights into alcoves or back-lighting an opaque bath panel. Light behind the bath with waterproof LED 1w Lucca Exterior uplights or use an LED Contour strip under a basin so that it appears to float or use it to backlight shelves. Just take care that any fittings used are completely encased and never be tempted to use a conventional light fitting that’s not intended for bathroom use. With a little imagination, the right lighting really can transform every room in the house. Living room lighting Background or ambient lighting plays the part of daylight and is most

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often provided by a central pendant light – but if used alone, can create a very flat effect. Think about layering the light. One ceiling light will cast shadows, whereas having lamps dotted around will highlight all areas and make the room more welcoming.” How to make a hallway warm. The lounge is where we’re most likely to use accent lighting - to show off an artwork, ornaments, or even a plant. Think carefully when positioning lights - don’t place downlighters at either end of a sofa if you may change the room layout. Similarly, wall lights are best positioned either side of a fixed feature, like a fireplace. A standing lamp can look good behind the sofa or next to an armchair. For reading, the light should be placed to one side, behind and above the chair and take a 60 watt bulb at least – remembering that a 60-year-old requires 15 times more light for reading than a teenager. Watching TV in total darkness can cause eye strain, so place a light behind or beside the television, avoiding anything too bright which could cause glare on the screen. To make a room appear larger, light all four corners with spotlights or table lamps, in addition to a main pendant light. Wall washers, which flood light on to the wall and ceiling, will make the room seem taller. To make a room feel longer place lights at one end, to attract the eye along it.” Hallway Halls are often dark and lighting can be used to make a warm and welcoming entrance, as well as ensuring safety on the stairs. Create drama by over-scaling a decorative pendant and dimming this for mood, used in conjunction with Polespring LED downlights. Try lighting the stairs themselves using recessed spotlights and ensure the main overhead light is at the top of the stairs rather than the bottom to reduce the risk of accidents. Bedroom lighting Most people like bedrooms to be bright in the morning and atmospheric in the evening. Use a High CRI Contour Strip to uplight above a wardrobe for a fresh bright effect that can be dimmed in the evening or use a run of Polespring LEDs to light the front of wardrobes or highlight the headboard. Don’t forget to have downlights on a separate control so you can turn them off from bed. Bedside table or wall lights are ideal for reading – choose shades that are white on the inside and a warm colour outside, and fit with a clear bulb to provide a warm glow.

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Retro Style

First things first, decide on what theme or era you would like your home to be. Some fun ideas for different decades are the kitchy 50’s, the mod look of the 60’s, or the bohemiam look of the 70’s.

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retro style usually has a fun, lively feel to it, with bright colours, wild designs and an overall sense of “flair”. Just think back to the fabrics and textures during the 60’s and you’ll immediately get a sense of where your decor needs to go to truly capture the essence of retro style. Because retro-style requires such a bold approach, it also requires a certain personality to pull it off. There’s nothing laid-back or casual about retro-style decorating. On the contrary, it is loud, busy and most definitely “funky”.

Music helped shape this decade as rock music mixed with disco fever, disco balls and disco dancing hit the groovy scene. Many 70’s homes were light, airy and free in reflection of the movements that were happening; activism, freedom and self-expression. There are many ways to integrate elements of 1970’s decor into your home without over doing it – there is the traditional retro style, or you may prefer for a more modern contemporary retro theme.

Trying to furnish your entire home strictly from a specific era can become quite tricky, so you could mix the old with new, and accessorise with items that complement the era you are looking to portray.

Get the 70’s look: Colour: Building your colour scheme around the hippie, ethnic style which would give you a more neutral palette of earth tones i.e. beige, sage green, sand, brown, mustard, burnt orange, navy, plum, aubergine, wine and deep shades of purple. Brown and cream with orange and avocado were the most popular colour choices of the seventies. Of course there is the disco vibe, additional colours of silver and gold that you could fuse into your design ideas.

So, how can you bring retro style decorating into your home? Let’s take a look at some common elements of this energising decorating style: Colors in Retro Decors One of the easiest ways to give a room a retro feel is to choose retro colours. Fortunately, that’s not hard to do. Avocado green is by far the most popular retro colour choice, followed closely by mustard yellow and combinations of black, white and red. In addition, purple and hot pink both make a great addition to your retro decor. Don’t be surprised to find items that have a little of everything, with mixes of bright orange, green, indigo blue, and yellow on one single piece. Tie-dyed fabrics, checkered patterns, and elaborate paisley prints were also a trademark of the era.

Walls: Look for a fabulous wallpaper which you could add to your room or use to make a stunning mural. Vinyl wallpaper was popular during the 70’s however today there are many incredible designs that are paper or fabric backed. Patterned fabrics also make great murals so enjoy looking through lots of ranges before you make your final selection. They are a real nostalgic look and could be used in a very modern way within your design.

Retro Style Furniture Retro style furniture has an abstract feel to it, with each piece almost fighting for the limelight as the focal point of the room. Sofas are broad and elongated with multi-colored throw pillows for an added dash of colour. Shiny chrome barstools with bright red seats draw your attention to a diner-style kitchen while Mitt chairs and puzzle-piece ottomans provide unique seating for guests.

Decor: Look for some tubular chrome or polished steel pieces of furniture to add to your look. Bean bags are also a great addition. Super comfy! Retro style interiors have lots of big pattern so mix and match fabrics i.e. upholstery to sofas, scatter cushions and curtains. It is daring to have lots of pattern in the one room however, you can combine them as long as you link in tones so that your design look tasteful.

The Seventies retro style interiors and design is considered very trendy these days. It is an exciting blend of hippie, beatnik, and boho chic with the funky kitsch designs from the sixties.

Lighting: Pendant lamps make a great retro centrepiece in the room, or you could go for dim retro lamps around the room, creates a relaxing mood in the room!

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neptunefulham.com Pictured: Charles Grand Sofa £2,295, Ewan & Hamish Cushions £55, Tolsey Oatmeal Rug £295 Alex Stools in Elliot £290 * Receive a £50 gift voucher for every £500 spent in one transaction on Upholstery. Orders must be placed by 31st Jan 2014 and delivered by 28th Feb 2014. For full details please ask in-store or visit neptune.com/offers.

Available at: Neptune Fulham 87-93 Wandsworth Bridge Road, London SW6 2TD 0207 371 99 97 info@neptunefulham.com

KITCHEN

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Love Retro?

Love Designer? Cult Furniture has now opened a beautiful, bright and fresh showroom in the heart of Clapham. Now retro, designer furniture is not just available to the rich and famous - It is available to everybody. Cult Furniture made the decision to open a showroom after high demand from online customers to view the furniture before they buy and its been a roaring success for the company, bringing in new business from the extra passing trade and locals in the community. Cult Furniture pride themselves on designing and making premium reproduction pieces ‘in the style of’ well known furniture designers. In an ever expanding pallet of colours to match the original designs and new colours to keep up with the trends. They don’t only supply residential properties – Cult Furniture have kitted out some huge commercial premises, such as Nicole Fahri and the V.I.P Nike Box at Manchester City Football Club. The sky is certainly the limit for this flourishing London business, Cult Furniture have been the very generous donators of items for BBC’s D.I.Y SOS and Channel 5’s Cowboy Builders. Why not visit the showroom which is located at 811-813 Wandsworth Road, London SW8 3JH, Monday to Friday 9am – 6pm or Saturday 10am – 5pm. Or visit their website www.cultfurniture.com Tel: 0208 185 6960 Email: info@cultfurniture.com 1 2 2 F E B R U A RY 2 0 1 4

@CultFurniture facebook.com/cultfurniture

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QUALITY ENVIRONMENT FOR QUALITY OF LIFE Specialists in high quality solid and sustainable hardwood flooring We carry a huge range of woods from around the world, displayed at our Notting Hill showroom in large sample boards to assist clients, designers and architects, in planning interiors. Board and strip flooring wood block and decking, bespoke floor production. Other services, special project installation, wall panelling, staircases, doors, worktops, cabinetry, natural stone & many other interior related products. Exceptional value, experienced craftsmen, quality installation.

Showroom : 116 Talbot Rd, Notting Hill, London, W11 1JR E-mail sales@treehouseflooring.co.uk Tel: 020 7460 0376 www.treehouseflooring.co.uk

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JOHN BLY ANTIQUES

In the world of fine antiques Provenance Rules!

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n the 18th century when the gentry were forced to sell some family heirlooms, only their tenants and lower class neighbours went to the sale, acquiring things from the castle to put in their cottages. However if His Lordship happened to be a national hero then wealthy people flocked to the auction and bid like crazy. So since people first began collecting, the provenance must be meaningful and backed by irrefutable evidence. The poorly-recorded sale of the contents of over one thousand country houses demolished in the early 20th century is one of the reasons why there are many wonderful items floating around in the market today which need research to establish their background. These items are known as ‘sleepers’. A case in point is the cabinet illustrated. It is without question the quality of the 19th century cabinetmakers Edwards and Roberts, and the style is typical of Bruce Talbert.It was made to display the collection of Japanese silver, gold and lacquer Komai panels.

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Quality and authenticity are important, but Provenance governs the price more than anything else. The late Princess Margaret’s plastic umbrella sold for £2,000 simply because it was hers.

There was an exhibition of Japanese art, including Komai, in May 1876, just prior to a number of International Exhibitions. But to date there is no positive proof of maker, designer or its display anywhere. The only written evidence of its background is that the hinges are stamped by Collinson & Lock and that the locks are by Chubb. But here at last there is a nugget, for Chubbs keep records, and they show that on July 12th 1876 a J. Dacre collected and signed for a set of six locks, the numbers on three of which match those on the cabinet. So who was J. Dacre? Was there a companion Cabinet to employ the other three locks? Definitive answers to these questions will turn this fabulous piece of furniture into a famous one. What handsome prince of a researcher or archivist will wake this particular ‘sleeper’? John Bly 533 Kings Road, Chelsea john@johnbly.com.

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Konig Kitchens specialising in

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Bespoke German Kitchens and Traditional English Furniture

or years architects and interior designers across London have relied on the quality products and exceptional service offered by König Kitchens. We integrate seamlessly with your existing project team, working with you to design a room that is functional, beautiful and above all exceeds your expectations. We are able to offer very competitive prices, all without compromising on our exceptional levels of customer service. We can do as much or as little of the design and installation process as you require, flexing to fit with your requirements and adapting to meet challenges and changes that present themselves as the project progresses. Who are König Kitchens? König Kitchens are an independent kitchen showroom nestled in the heart of London’s famous Wimbledon Village, providing quality designer kitchens at accessible prices. We design handmade English Stoneham kitchens and German kitchens, manufactured by a leading German brand; all our kitchens are beautiful and built to last. König Kitchens offer a free planning and design service where our specialist designers will help you choose a kitchen tailor made for your living space and your specific requirements. You are welcome to pop in and take a look around whenever you’re passing. What do we believe in? Each kitchen is designed to your individual lifestyle, giving you the ultimate living experience by shaping the space around what you use it for. Our aim for every kitchen we design is to create a space you will love spending time in within your specified budget. Our design team are well known for their innovative use of space, strong focus on quality and high standards of service. What kind of kitchens do we offer? From edgy modern kitchen designs using innovative textures and daring

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colours to simple or traditional look wooden kitchens that you can paint or leave exposed for a natural look, König Kitchens will have something for you. Sleek, German Engineered Quality Kitchens. We have a great working relationship with the company and are able to tailor each kitchen to match the unique dimensions of your home and create a space that is supremely comfortable, practical and enjoyable to live in.   Worktops We have a broad range of gorgeous worktops to satisfy all tastes and budgets; from high quality laminates to hand cut and finished luxury granite, ceramic a nd quartz stone. Our stone is quarried from all over the world, helping us to provide you with a vast and diverse catalogue to choose from. All our worktops can be made to fit your specifications exactly as are cut in the UK based on the plan we have drawn for your kitchen. All our kitchen and worktops are provided with a detailed CAD diagram drawn by our dedicated design team to ensure an excellent standard of fitting. Appliances We are able to supply state of the art appliances from leading brands at affordable prices to compliment your beautiful new kitchen, removing the hassle of extensive research and coordinating delivery dates. Unlike many high street retailers, there’s no compulsion to buy the appliances from us, nor do we alter our prices based on whether you do or not. If you’d like us to take care of it, we’ll make sure you get a good deal and that the colours and specifications fit with the overall brief and design. You are welcome to visit the showroom at any time; 19 High Street, Wimbledon Village SW19 5DX Call 020 8946 3539 or email info@konigkitchens.com www. konigkitchens.com

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A REPUTATION CARVED

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nglish City Stone are specialists in the area of restoration of Victorian and Georgian stone steps. With over 25 years’ experience in the field they can return any worn out flight of leaking steps to its former glory, both transforming the entrance to the property and protecting it from the elements. During the Victorian and Georgian eras the majority of townhouses were constructed with stone steps in either Portland limestone or Yorkshire sandstone (Yorkstone). These natural stones gave the entrance to homes and offices a bold elegance and were designed to withstand many decades of foot traffic and weather erosion. However, most of these original steps are now in a state of disrepair and many allow water to leak into the space beneath them. A quick look down any London street will demonstrate the way in which this problem has been tackled in the past: an ugly covering of bitumen or concrete. English City Stone supply and fit both Yorkstone and Portland limestone to replace worn or leaking stone, concrete or tiled steps. They have a revolutionary waterproofing system combining several membranes which funnel water away from the property whilst retaining flexibility, so even if the building moves over time the waterproof barrier is not compromised. For a genuine Victorian or Georgian finish a flight of steps may require a cast metal handrail or gate, often with ornate baluster panels. If there are already railings in place these can be removed and refitted and any damaged sections can be re-cast using traditional methods. Installing

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the railings usually involves diamond drilling the stone, a process which can easily damage the underlying stonework if the materials are not fully understood by the drill operator. English City Stone have their own in-house stonework and metalwork teams, so finishing work does not have to be subcontracted to other companies who may not have the same in depth knowledge of the base materials. With this in mind, customers can be assured that the company take full responsibility for all of the work undertaken. The scope of the works English City Stone will undertake does not stop at the steps. They will supply and fit all associated stone paving and other masonry items such as coping stones, pier caps, window sills and door surrounds. Again, all of this work is carried out by their in-house teams ensuring the highest quality of craftsmanship. They are members of The Guild of Master Craftsmen and are happy to provide references and addresses of where their work can be viewed. Whether the work you require is purely cosmetic or a means to protect your home or office against water damage, English City Stone have the all the skill, experience and materials you’ll need. For more information about English City Stone call 0208 673 8785 or email info@englishcitystone.co.uk www.englishcitystone.co.uk 74 Fernlea Road, London, SW12 9RW

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Dsic 46 Gutlin Clocks

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GÜTLIN CLOCKS & ANTIQUES

One of London’s largest selections of antique grandfather clocks and French mantel clocks All types of antique clocks repaired and restored. FREE ESTIMATES! 606 King’s Road SW6 2DX Tel: 020 7384 2804 www.gutlin.com E-mail: mark@gutlin.com

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Probably the largest stock of Curtain & Upholstery Fabrics, Blinds, Curtain Tracks & Poles in West London Tel: 0207 386 0008 Fax: 0207 381 8879 Email: cfpolytrad@aol.com www.curtainfabricfactory.co.uk

Your local shutters specialist Request your free home survey for expert advice, measuring and a no-obligation quote. Call FREE on 0808 250 2581 or visit premiershutters.co.uk

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Why choose The Wooden Floor Specialist this summer

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ith the summer season upon us comes the motivation to make those home improvements that will rejuvenate your home. One of the most effective and noticeable changes that you can make is by having high quality wooden flooring fitted.As their name suggests, The Wooden Floor Company are leading specialists in supplying, fitting and maintaining wooden flooring. As a reputable contractor, it is no surprise that they are the first choice for many as they look to reap the benefits of a quality wooden floor. Since they established themselves in 1987, They have looked to light the way in terms of the quality craftsmanship of an extensive range of stylish woods complimented by a customer service that meets their clients every need. Their services don’t just stop there. They understand the pride that many people have in the maintenance and upkeep of their wooden flooring, which is why they place a strong emphasis on their range of protective and

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revitalising wooden floor products to ensure that your flooring looks as good as the day it was installed. Chris Norris, The director of The Wooden Floor Specialists Ltd says, ‘’ We have an extensive range and as well as our unmatchable knowledge of wooden flooring and its maintenance, only fills our customers with the confidence they need to attain and retain our services. Whether you’re looking for a traditional and striking wooden floor or you are drawn towards a modern and sleek look, we will be able to help point you in the right direction’’ So if you’re looking for a new wooden floor, wooden floor treatment, floor sanding or simply some advice, give them a call today on 020 8675 2431 and let the team at The Wooden Floor Specialists Ltd make your wooden floor dreams a reality this new year. www.woodenfloors.co.uk

nicolas tye architects As award winning architects and designers we aspire to create extraordinary buildings and spaces for our clients, sometimes from the most difficult of design briefs. Central to our philosophy is that good design should reflect the needs of our clients and respond to the surrounding environment. Pushing the boundaries of design we are able to achieve timeless, highly innovative and sustainable projects. We offer a complete design service from initial advice through to the completion of your project. We complete works all over the UK and internationally. Email us or call with your new project enquiry.

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nicolas tye architects t: 01525 406677 e: info@nicolastyearchitects.co.uk w: www.nicolastyearchitects.co.uk

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CEDARWOOD

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estled deep within the established plot the simple series of refined linear buildings blend seamlessly and capture the innate natural beauty of their setting. Strategically positioned the buildings provide an array of landscaped courtyards each with its own distinct character. Constructed from the highest quality natural materials the buildings are designed to provide a healthy and sustainable living environment, highly insulated and filled with light. The large panels of recessed glazing which adorn the elevations provide panoramic views across the site whilst creating a series of bright internal living spaces. The glazing itself is highly thermally efficient allowing energy from the sun to enter the building whilst limiting heat loss during winter.

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The natural slate roof lines, which float effortlessly over the buildings, provide shelter and protection from the elements. The purity of the roof forms are further enhanced by the use of recessed guttering and concealed down-pipes. Constructed from a rigid steel frame the buildings are clad externally in Western Red Cedar, which has a superior natural durability and resistance to moisture, decay and insect damage. Selected for its warm textured grain and rich colour Cedar has an inherent quality that has been proven to retain its appearance for several decades. The use of Cedar provides a strong visual connection and roots the buildings within its landscape. The buildings themselves are highly thermally insulated using

F E AT U R E

‘Set within a generous mature landscaped plot with views across the open Cheshire countryside Cedarwood offers a contemporary rural residence completed to the highest possible specification. The brief was to create a timeless yet elegant design, which connected with the surrounding landscape.’ t: 01525 406677

nicolas tye architects

e: info@nicolastyearchitects.co.uk

sustainable wood-fibre board that not only reduces heat loss but also gives protection from overheating in the summer months. The building construction is highly breathable and vapor permeable protecting the building fabric and providing a naturally healthy living environment. Heating is provided via underfloor heating linked to a highly efficient gas-condensing boiler. The internal layout supplies a sequence of open interlinked spaces, the ever-changing requirements and progression of a modern family have been taken into consideration; the design of the interior reflects this. Each area has it’s own distinct character and style, however the spaces flow together seamlessly to create a house and home that works effectively. A palette of robust, hard wearing

w: www.nicolastyearchitects.co.uk

natural materials have been used which will age gracefully and withstand everyday knocks and scrapes. Key features of the interior include a freestanding slate open fire, open tread oak staircase, concealed built-in cabinetry, vaulted ceilings, recessed roller blinds and high specification lighting, audio and media specification. The kitchen, which is centrally located has been completed to an exceptional quality with bespoke handmade cabinetry, moulded Corian work surfaces and sink and Wolf appliances. This high specification is followed throughout the build with an exceptional level of attention to detail that continues in the bathrooms. Frame-less walk in shower enclosures, moulded Corian basins with Vola taps and showers.’

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H OUS E & GA R D E N

Chiswick Auctions The Famous Auction On Your Doorstep Chiswick Auctions has been the home of many TV shows You get a very friendly welcome Many people have never visited an auction, well they make it as easy as possible, from the moment you unpack your treasures, to the time when you receive your money, their very experienced staff can help you every step of the way. Selling Chiswick Auctions offer free valuations and advice to everyone; the valuers can visit your home, assess the value of items and then arrange for a collection team to come at a convenient time to take the items away. They then provide a detailed receipt for items that may appear the next week in the Tuesday auction. Auctioning over 25,000 items each year, which include jewellery & watches, home furnishings to antiques of all kinds styles and eras. The range of items that Chiswick Auctions handle is staggering. All goods are checked to see that they are fit for the purposes i.e. are they sturdy and robust. Condition reports can be given upon request. Many estate agents recommend Chiswick Auctions to their clients as they can auction their unwanted household items when they leave a property and also they can buy `new` items for their new property. Viewing Every auction is available online, the catalogue is put together from Wednesday onwards and is completed Sunday morning. Items can be viewed for 2 days before the auction from 12-6 Sundays, 10-6 Mondays and the morning of the auction day Tuesday 10-12. Experience staff are at hand on viewing days to assist wherever necessary. Buying Each item is carefully described and has an estimated value along with a photograph. To be able to buy, customers must first register, (whether online or in person) and then they are allocated a buyer number, these are needed to register who has bought an item and will be needed when payment is made before collecting the items that you have purchased. After registration bids can be left by completing a commission bid form, stating the maximum amount you wish to pay (excluding the buyers’ commission) or you can enjoy the experience of bidding live in person at the sale, or 1 3 8 F E B R U A RY 2 0 1 4

online via www.thesaleroom.com. Please remember that bidding is a contract to buy. Value For Money Auctions often include contemporary household items such as dining tables, settees and chairs which cost a fraction of the retail price as they may not fit in someone’s new home. You can be notified in advance if you specify categories that are of interest to you when registering. Online You can safely view, listen and bid on every weekly auction online via our online auction host www.the-saleroom.com/chiswick. Full details are available on the comprehensive website www.chiswickauctions.co.uk Atmosphere There is nothing quite like the buzz of a live auction, with many people involved in bidding and the auctioneers make it a fast moving adventure. Often they make humorous comments and the excitement gathers momentum when an unexpected lot goes way beyond the estimate. Sometimes a dealer has spotted something `a Sleeper` that may have been overlooked or 2 bidders desperately want to secure a particular treasure. Auctions start at 12 noon on Tuesdays and generally run through an amazing 120+ lots per hour, sometimes up to 3 per minute. Attention is required as you may have waited quite some time for your lot to come up. Monitors (behind the auctioneer and in reception) along with the speaker system show the current lot with a picture and the printed catalogues detail everything you need to know. Special Interests There are speciality auctions each quarter focussing on particular themes including Jewellery, Books & Manuscripts, Toys & Dolls, Along With Furniture and general antiques. Chiswick Auctions is a fascinating place, full of surprises and bargains & as their company line goes: Because one never knows.. in other words you could be sitting on a fortune..

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