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Transcript of Andrew Grant Winter
Andrew Grant
At Home
www.andrew-grant.co.uk
thepropertyandlifestyleedition
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39 Luxury escapes with Mr & Mrs SmithThe Smiths talk about theirexpanding boutique hotelbusiness and pick some oftheir finest winter escapes
52 I ownBritain’s best homeSharon Kilby meets withAmanda Barrington,the proud owner of‘Woodsend’, recently voted‘Britain’s Best Home 2009’
58 Top HatWe meet with bespoke hat couturedesigner Louis Marriette at his SloaneGardens studio about his work and TVwork as one of the judges on the‘Britain’s next top model’ programme
50 A taste of Relais &ChâteuxA gastronomic tour with the finest chefs inthe UK and Ireland
thepropertyandlifestyleedition
Andrew Grantwww.andrew-grant.co.uk
WINTER EDITION
66 And so theshow beginsExtracts from the Gordon Ramsaybook, Three Star Chef
ANDREW GRANT OFFICES:Worcester Country Homes Tel: 01905 734735Worcester City Homes Tel: 01905 734734Hereford Tel: 01432 355292Pershore Tel: 01386 554031Malvern Tel: 01684 563136Droitwich Spa Tel: 01905 771124Bromsgrove Tel: 01527 579977Redditch Tel: 01527 66161
Kidderminster Tel: 01562 60228Stourbridge Tel: 01384 370232ANDREW GRANT DEPARTMENTS:Antiques & Fine Arts Tel: 0844 984 9617Commercial & Industrial Tel: 01905 29402Surveys & Valuations Tel: 01905 617768New Homes Tel: 0844 984 9619Lettings Tel: 01905 23882
www.andrew-grant.co.uk
Welcome to the Winter issue of Andrew Grant’s At Home Property Lifestyle magazine, featuring aselection of some very interesting homes currently for sale within our portfolio of 1,250 propertiesthroughout the Midlands.A dynamic and forward thinking organisation – Andrew Grant is recognised as the Region’s premierIndependent Group of Chartered Surveyors, Auctioneers and Estate Agents. During 38 years ofsuccessful history, the business has gone from strength to strength – innovating, challenging establishedpractice, embracing the latest technology and providing an unrivalled personal service. There are nineresidential offices in Worcestershire and Herefordshire including Worcester, Pershore, Malvern,Hereford, Droitwich Spa, Bromsgrove, Redditch, Kidderminster and Stourbridge. There is also a LondonOffice in Pall Mall and specialist departments in Surveys, Commercial, Lettings, New Homes and FineArt – all staffed by experienced and well trained experts in their own particular fields.Andrew Grant is an ISO9001:2000 accredited business – providing clients with a service which meetstheir needs and surpasses their expectations – combining principles of professionalism and integrity.Andrew Grant is fully committed to its membership of both the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyorsand National Association of Estate Agents together with their associated rules of conduct.Selected membership of Homesale Network is another coveted credential to assist buyers and sellerswith their relocation needs.In many ways, as we enter into 2010 Andrew Grant is sad to leave behind the success of 2009 becausewe will be saying goodbye to a year of remarkable recovery within the residential housing market. Wehave seen our sales grow by a staggering 69% since 2008 and which superb level of activity has beendespite a continuation of severely depressed economic conditions. Looking forward into 2010 provides the encouraging prospect of an improving economic climate whichshould bode even better for the now stabilised housing market. The difficulties associated withmortgage funding and a collapse of house prices during 2007, effectively restricted the numbers ofproperties entering the market and the stock of available homes to buy is now at an all time low.Consequently, an equilibrium exists between demand and supply with current conditions marginally infavour of the seller. Therefore, now would seem to present an excellent moment to enter the market.Call for Free Advice from the professionals who on April 01st 2010 will be celebrating 40 years ofoutstanding success – based upon high levels of professionalism and customer service.Please contact us – see below.
The homes featured in this magazine are a randomselection from our portfolio of some of the finestproperties available in the local area.
Andrew Grant
©Leycol Publishing 2009. All rights reserved. Reproduction is forbidden except by express permission of the Publishers.The content of this magazine is believed to be correct but its accuracy is not guaranteed and it does not form part of any offer orcontract. Leycol Publishing cannot accept responsibility for any omissions or errors. The views expressed within editorialsare those of the writers and not those of Leycol Publishing.
For all Advertising and Editorial enquiries please contact: Steven Hall 01803 849287 [email protected]
For all Print Sales enquiries please contact: Elizabeth Baxendale 07715 496853 [email protected]
Leycol Publishing 5 Hancock Road London E3 3DATELEPHONE
020 8880 6000E-MAIL
020 8880 6001
Our next property magazine will be published in April for the spring edition.
The Andrew Grant ‘At Home’ property lifestyle magazine is exclusively published and printed by:
14 WINTER COLLECTION
Vowchurch, HerefordshireOffers over £4,000,000
270 acres (109 ha) Approx. An Important Classical Grade 11*Listed Country Residence with Commanding Views, Lodge andCottage within a beautiful Landscape. Traditional outbuildings,Indoor Pool, Tennis Court, Apartment, Garaging, FormalGardens, Medieval Parkland, Woodland and Paddocks.
Poston House: 4270 sq ft (397 sq m) GIA approx.Poston Lodge: 2560 sq ft (238 sq m) GIA approx.Garden Cottage: 1776 sq ft (165 sq m) GIA approx
In conjunction with Knight Frank 0207 629 8171
Telephone: 01905 734735
Andrew Grant www.andrew-grant.co.uk
ABBERLEY HALLWORCESTERSHIRE
Co-educational Boarding and Day School 8-13 yearsOutstanding academic record in preparing pupils
for all public and senior schools.
Set in 90 acres, the school has exceptional facilities including a new indoorswimming pool, Astroturf, Design, Technology and Art centre, Riding Stables,
Modern Language Laboratory and French Chalet.
A wide range of evening and weekend activities from calligraphy to abseiling.
For further information please contact:
John Walker Esq, Headmaster, Abberley Hall, Worcestershire WR6 6DDTel: 01299 896275 e-mail: [email protected] Fax: 01299 896875
www.abberleyhall.co.uk
16 WINTER COLLECTION
Wolverley, Worcestershire£3,000,000
48 acres (19.4 ha) Approx. An Equestrian Country Residencewith Leisure Complex, Heated Infinity Pool, Lodge, ExternalStabling and Garaging, Paddocks within beautiful Landscape.
Principal residence approximately 8,200 sq ft (760 sq m)Leisure complex approximately 5,400 sq ft (508 sq m)Hill House Lodge approximately 980 sq ft (90 sq m)
Telephone: 01905 734735
Andrew Grant www.andrew-grant.co.uk
18 WINTER COLLECTION
Mamble, Worcestershire£2,350,000
A Fine Georgian Residence 9000 sq ft (850 sq m) GIA approx withExceptional Views to the Welsh Mountains 16.5 acres (6.7 ha).
Impressive reception hall, 5 reception rooms, kitchen,8 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms. Garage, period outbuildings,landscaped gardens, grounds, long drive, tennis court,wildlife pond, woodland, paddocks.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Andrew Grant www.andrew-grant.co.uk
20 WINTER COLLECTION
Bretforton, Worcs/Glos£2,250,000
30 Acres (12 ha) Approx. An Inspirational Country Estate Fitted andFinished to the Ultimate Specification 8000 sq ft (760 sq m) GIAapprox. including Banqueting Hall, Spa, Indoor Tennis Court and1⁄2 mile tree lined drive.
Further accommodation includes 3 reception rooms, kitchen/ breakfastroom, games room, 6 bedrooms (3 e/s), bathroom, dressing room, open garaging, formal gardens, outbuilding, paddocks.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Andrew Grant www.andrew-grant.co.uk
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“... the life of the Sixth Form is a strength of the school.”Independent Schools Inspection Report
www.stmarys.org.uk 01905 357786
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22 WINTER COLLECTION
Cookhill, Worcestershire/Warwickshire Offers Over £2,000,000 (as a whole)
An Enclave of Residences within a Tranquil Wildlife SanctuaryLOT 1: Principal Residence: 4400 ft². Stable Cottage: 680 ft².56 Acres, Outbuildings, Gardens, Electrically Operated Gates,Conservation Ancient Woodland, Wildlife Pools, Pastureland.OFFERS OVER £1,395,000.
LOT 2: Two Detached House – The Woodlands:1800 ft². The Cottage: 970 ft². 1 Acre. OFFERS OVER £675,000(All measurements are approximate)
Telephone: 01905 734735
Andrew Grant www.andrew-grant.co.uk
WINTER COLLECTION 23
Nr Cooksey Green, Bromsgrove £1,750,000
Minimalist Indulgence.
Contemporary high specification interiors – 5 reception rooms,5 en-suite bedrooms, circa 5,400 sq ft (500 sq m), hospitalityterraces, garaging/stabling, circa 2.25 acres (1 ha).
Telephone: 01905 734735
Andrew Grantwww.andrew-grant.co.uk
24 WINTER COLLECTION
Andrew Grant www.andrew-grant.co.uk
Hagley, Worcestershire £1,550,000
An Elegant Victorian Residence, 6,200 sq ft (580 sq m) within anExceptional Position Commanding Magnificent Far ReachingViews. 2.5 acres (1 ha) Approx.
Impressive reception hall, 4 reception rooms, kitchen,butler’s pantry, 7 bedrooms (2 en-suites), bathroom, garage,outbuildings and gardens.
Telephone: 01905 734735
26 AUTUMN/WINTER COLLECTION
Great Comberton, Worcestershire£1,550,000
8 Acres (3.2 ha) Approx. One of the Finest Settings inWorcestershire.
Drawing room, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room,swimming pool, 6 bedrooms, dressing room, en-suite,bathroom, garaging, long driveway, gardens, woodland,orchard, paddock, 160 yds river frontage.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Andrew Grant www.andrew-grant.co.uk
WINTER COLLECTION 27
Alvechurch, Birmingham£1,450,000
Over 5 Acres Approx. Imposing, Graceful, Eminent. 5,260 sq ft
House and annexe in parkland garden. In all 6 reception rooms.10 bedrooms. Superb character with self contained annexe.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Andrew Grantwww.andrew-grant.co.uk
28 AUTUMN/WINTER COLLECTION
Stone, Nr Mustow Green, Worcestershire£1,250,000
An Exquisite Country Residence approx, 4600 sq ft overlookingLake and Woodlands. Approximately 22 acres.FOR SALE AS A WHOLE OR IN TWO LOTS
Lot 1: 4 reception rooms, kitchen, 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms,cottage, gardens, swimming pool, garage, outbuildings,4 acre lake, woodland.Lot 2: Paddock 8 acres £100,000.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Andrew Grant www.andrew-grant.co.uk
30 AUTUMN/WINTER COLLECTION
Ledbury, Herefordshire£1,250,000
Beautifully Presented Country Residence with ContemporaryInteriors. 4,800 sq ft (447 sq m). 5 acres (2 ha) approx.
Principle Residence: 4 reception rooms, kitchen, 5 bedrooms,4 bathrooms.Coach House: Open plan kitchen/living room, 2 bedrooms(1 en-suite), bathroom.The Nest: open plan studio, garaging. Landscaped gardens and grounds.Joint agent: Hayes, 01531 630030
Telephone: 01905 734735
Andrew Grant www.andrew-grant.co.uk
WINTER COLLECTION 31
Stockton-on-Teme, Worcestershire£1,195,000
Inspired Conversion, Inspirational Setting Around 3.75 Acres
Drawing room, study area, dining room, kitchen, 5 bedrooms, 4 en-suites and bathroom.
Leisure block with home cinema, office, play room, double car port,4,500 sq ft gardens, paddocks.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Andrew Grantwww.andrew-grant.co.uk
32 WINTER COLLECTION
Upton-Upon-Severn, WorcestershireOffers over £1,100,000
6.6 Acres (2.7 ha) Approx. An exquisite country residenceimpeccably presented throughout (5000 sq ft (464 sq m)GIA approx.
6 reception rooms, kitchen, self contained leisure complex withgymnasium and guest suite, 5 bedrooms (3 en-suite), bathroom,5-bay garage, gardens, paddocks. Suitable for equestrian purposes.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Andrew Grant www.andrew-grant.co.uk
WINTER COLLECTION 33
Defford, Worcestershire£895,000
Distinguished Former Rectory 5,400 sq ft (500 sq m) GIA approxwith Magnificent Views to Bredon Hill, Approx 1.4 ac.
Reception Hall, 4 Reception rooms, kitchen, butler's pantry,4/5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms. Landscaped gardens. With pp for adetached dwelling. Joint agents Halls 01905 611066.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Andrew Grantwww.andrew-grant.co.uk
34 WINTER COLLECTION
Andrew Grant www.andrew-grant.co.uk
Droitwich, Worcestershire£1,550,00022.5 Acres Approx. An Exquisite Period Residencetogether with Exceptional Equestrian Facilities.3,500 sq ft GIA approx.
4 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, 4 bedrooms(all en-suite), 4-car garage, 4 stables, long sweeping treelined drive, gardens, paddocks.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Claines, Worcestershire£1,500,0007 Acres Approx. A Prominent Country Residence withLeisure Complex. 6,800 sq ft (632 sq m) GIA approx.
5 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, 5 bedrooms2 en-suites, bathroom, leisure complex, garage, studio,gardens, paddock.
Telephone: 01905 734735
WINTER COLLECTION 35WINTER COLLECTION 35
Andrew Grantwww.andrew-grant.co.uk
Mamble, Worcestershire£1,400,00017th Century Grade II Listed Georgian Residence withPeriod Barns.
Farmhouse: 3260 sq ft approx.Threshing Barn: 2819 sq ft approx.Period Barn: 1786 sq ft approx. Attractively laid out maturegardens. Small arboretum.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Tenbury Wells, Worcestershire£1,500,00011 Acres Approx. An Elegant Georgian Residence.Rejoicing in Glorious Teme Valley Views. 8,000 sq ft GIAapprox. Joint agents Knight Frank 01432 273087.
4 reception rooms, butler’s pantry, kitchen/breakfast room,5 bedrooms, 7 second floor rooms, 2 shower rooms,3 bathrooms, cellarage, garaging, stabling, barn, gardens.
Telephone: 01905 734735
36 WINTER COLLECTION
Andrew Grant www.andrew-grant.co.uk
Bewdley, Worcestershire£1,395,000A Unique Country Residence 4000 sq ft (370 sq m) GIAapprox. within its Own Grounds. 7.25 Ac (3 Ha) Approx.
3 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, 4 bedrooms(1 en-suite), bathroom, self-contained annexe, studio,4-car garage, tree lined drive, electrically operated gates,wildlife pond.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Broadwas-on-Teme, Worcs£1,295,000Possibly the Finest Landed Barn in Worcestershire.Around 25 Acres.
4 principal receptions, 5 bedrooms, 2 en-suite. Detachedannex, 5 car garaging, stabling and portal barn. A further50 acres may be available.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Fine & Country National Editorial:Layout 1 05/10/2009 13:54 Page 37
Fine & Country National Editorial:Layout 1 05/10/2009 13:54 Page 38
autumn collection | 39
South-eastof EdenMr & Mrs Smith’s favouritewinter escapes
The South East of England isn’t short onplaces to stay, but if you’re looking for achic spa retreat, cosy country inn orvillage-set designer den, there’s onlyone place to turn: boutique-hotelexperts Mr & Mrs Smith tell us howthey got started, and cherry-pick someof their most luxurious UK hotspots…
Back in August 2001, courting coupleJames Lohan and Tamara Heber Percy, onthe advice of a not-to-be-named travelguide, were staying at a not-to-be-namedhotel in the Lake District, and not enjoyingit in the slightest.
‘This had happened before – wecouldn’t believe we were yet again stayingin a sub-standard hotel.’
‘We cut short the trip, and on the wayhome, we decided there was a need for aguide you could really trust,’ said Tam.And, with that, Mr & Mrs Smith was born.
The now widely known irreverent titleimmediately caught people’s imagination;‘It’s got the right level of naughtiness andfun, and it underlines that our selection isall about romance,’ says James.
By January 2003, the pair had raisedthe necessary finance, recruited a team andbegun compiling a collection of boutiquehotels that offered an inspirational guideand the sort of inside information you wouldpass on to a friend. Eight months and 41hotels later, the Mr & Mrs Smith HotelCollection UK/Ireland was launched and, byChristmas, the couple were reeling as thepredicted sales of 5,000 rolled into 20,000.
‘We just couldn’t believe it,’ saysJames. ‘All our hard work and reviewinghad paid off. Although it’s great fun, wereally are quite tough in terms of thecriteria the hotels have to meet. Once a
Fine & Country National Editorial:Layout 1 05/10/2009 13:54 Page 39
40 | autumn collection
hotel is spotted we visit it for considerationand if it’s promising, we send a couple to doan anonymous review and. If they love it, weinvite the hotel to join the Smith collection.
‘If it’s a close call,’ adds Tam, ‘We tellthe hotel why we haven’t been able toinclude them and if they choose to rectifythe problem then we will revisit. It’s notabout being elitist, we simply have a clearidea of what the collection is about andpeople have come to trust our judgement.We also do regular checks, and if wereceive two complaints we make a visit;three and they’re out.’
Following the success of their firstbook, the couple have since publishedseveral other Mr & Mrs Smith boutiquehotel guides under the Spy Publishingimprint: European Cities, European Coast &Country and an updated UK/ IrelandVolume 2. In 2008, they released The GlobalShortlist in the States and are starting tosee traffic increasing as the brand becomesmore well known Stateside.
‘The books have been a phenomenalsuccess, and continue to be popular eventhough our business has evolved from
being a niche publisher to being aboutique property provider for style-conscious travellers,’ explains James.
Recognising the need to keepreinventing their business, James, whopreviously owned an event company inLondon and started chic Clapham bar theWhite House, and Tam with her career inmarketing, launched their website – whichtook the company to a new level andmeant that Smith fans could bookboutique hotels through their trustedbrand online.
‘We’ve now selected more than 550properties to feature online, and thecollection has got much broader, toinclude stylish safaris, sexy ski lodges,child-friendly getaways and our growingself-catering selection.’
James and Tam have also introduceda three-tiered membership club offering atravel booking and concierge service,which covers anything from watering yourplants while you’re away to organising aromantic dinner on your trip.
‘We get an incredible 350,000 hits apeople have signed up to our various
membership clubs, which gets themaccess to all sorts of discounts andbenefits. Our entry level membership,BlackSmith, is just £15 per year,SilverSmith is £99 and GoldSmith £299.’
‘But we didn’t stop there. We’veintroduced an innovative loyalty scheme toreward frequent bookers. Members whobook trips with us will earn up to five percent of the value of their booking back to apersonal ‘Vault’, which can be viewedonline. They can spend their earnings inour shop which carries all sorts ofamazing high-quality brands or they canuse it to book more boutique hotel stays.’
This year, much excitement hassurrounded the launch of yet anotherguidebook: Australia & New Zealand (outin October ‘09), which has been publishedto celebrate the opening of Smith officesin Melbourne this May.
‘The offices in Australia mean that wecan offer a 24-hour Travel Team, six days aweek,’ says James. The Asia-Pacific arm ofMr & Mrs Smith (which includes Australiaand New Zealand) is headed up by SimonWestcott, former global publisher of LonelyPlanet and a boutique hotel connoisseur.‘It’s all just part of our plans for worldwidedomination,’ laughs Tam.
And out of all the great hotels theyrecommend, what are their favourites?‘Difficult, but among them all, we’ddefinitely go back to Endsleigh in Devon,JK Place in Florence and Ca’s Xorc inMallorca – where we got married.’
To find out more, order a guidebook orbook any of the hotels in the Mr & MrsSmith collection, visitwww.mrandmrssmith.comor ring the expert Smith travel team on 0845 034 0700.g
Fine & Country National Editorial:Layout 1 05/10/2009 13:54 Page 40
Fine & Country National Editorial:Layout 1 05/10/2009 13:54 Page 41
42 | autumn collection
The George in Rye98 High Street, East Sussex TN31 7JT
Style Quirky-smart Regency inn
Setting Cobbled streets of Rye
Rooms 24, including five suites
Rates £125–£225, including breakfast; midweek rates
also include dinner. One-night bookings for Saturdays
incur a £50 supplement.
Smith Factor This inspiring coaching inn-conversion is
located in the heart of historic Rye, a potter-paced
seaside town on the East Sussex coast. The decor makes
for love-at-first-sight stuff – bird-patterned wallpaper,
chairs clad in monochrome Florence Broadhurst textiles,
and artworks ancient and modern on the walls. Pillows
loaded with lavender coupled with bottles of Florentine fig
oil turn lazy nights in into a relaxing addiction. In addition
to the sumptuous bedrooms, each individually designed,
the hotel’s pièce de resistance is its Georgian ballroom, a
dramatic, high-ceilinged chamber adorned with hand-
painted silk panels – a truly wow-inducing wedding
venue. The hotel makes an unbeatable base for exploring
the coastline; the George’s Mediterranean kitchen
(headed by an ex-Moro chef) can pack you a hamper of
mouth-watering goodies to picnic upon – Camber Sands
is our top pick for alfresco eating. But if picnics aren’t
your thing, Rye has enough gastropubs and cake-toting
teashops to ensure you’re never hungry for long.
‘The first thing we noticed about this 18th-century
coaching inn was that the new owners seem to have
achieved what few proprietors of these ancient public
houses up and down the country have: a modern,
redesigned interior that is still sympathetic to the
original character of the building. It’s not just that the
black tar-encrusted beams have all been sand-blasted
clean, or that the sticky red paisley carpets have given
way to the original flagstone tiles. It’s that no detail,
from the nickel-coated plug sockets to burnished
copper radiators, has been overlooked. Tightly packed
with long sofas, chairs and beams, the George rises
above the seagull-echoing street in a warren of little
floors. Our room is extremely light and well planned,
rendering it utterly inviting, helped in no small way by
soft-touch scented pillows and hot-water bottle cosies.
The bathroom has a Victorian-style bath-cum-shower,
and is Aveda-product equipped, while soft-blue wood
panelling lends a gently nautical air. As soon as she
opened the ‘G’-branded wooden box to find an incredibly
varied selection of teas, Mrs Smith immediately set to
work preparing that most British of refreshments in
celebration.
The owners, Katie and Alex Clarke, have links with
set design and prop buying, making for a tasteful but
vibrant and diverse decorative scheme: psychedelic
Beatles prints sit alongside pockmarked beams and
distressed leather.
Chef Rod Grossmann’s menus create bold but
well balanced flavours. Local produce is at the fore, and
starters such as dressed crab and smoked duck are
quite something. The wine we chose was English:
Sandhurst Sussex Pinot Noir – what an extraordinary
revelation. Having tasted no better Gevrey-Chambertin
from Burgundy itself, it instantly became an all-time
favourite.
Rye – you made converts of us. OK, this East
Sussex spot may present more-than-ample kitsch bric-
a-brac window-sniggering opportunities, and maybe its
one-way system is a little annoying to first-time users,
but the charm and romance of this ancient fishing town
is undeniable. And, if it is trying to shrug off its unfair
bucket-and-spade image, then the George in Rye will
help its cause no end.’g
Mr Smith says…
‘Our room is extremelylight and well planned,rendering it utterly inviting’
Fine & Country National Editorial:Layout 1 05/10/2009 13:54 Page 42
Fine & Country National Editorial:Layout 1 05/10/2009 13:54 Page 43
44 | autumn collection
Calcot ManorNear Tetbury, Gloucestershire GL8 8YJ
Style Family-friendly farmhouse
Setting Homely heart of Gloucestershire
Rooms 35
Rates £230–£430, including breakfast and VAT. Dinner,
bed and breakfast rates (from £293 –£510, excluding
drinks) are compulsory at weekends and peak periods.
Smith Factor A 14th-century farmhouse set three
miles from Tetbury, amid the leafy rural roll of the
Cotswolds, Calcot Manor offers the acme of family
escapes, with child-geared facilities at every turn
and a parent-pampering spa to wind down in. Staff
have been trained to cater to youngsters of all
ages, and the range of activities on offer for little
ones (a fully staffed nursery, games room and
home cinema, 220 acres of grounds for outdoorsy
tykes) is enough to keep them occupied for a week.
Calcot’s family-friendly credentials don’t mean that
the hotel’s a passion killer, however – the couples-
only rooms in the main house, sophisticated fine
dining, two pools and an outdoor hot tub mean the
manor is as appealing a destination for twosomes
as it is for toddlers.
‘Our room at Calcot Manor, the Woodchester, is
simply lovely. Even though my eyes range over the room
in search of style faux pas, I find none. There’s not a
hint of chintz in sight, and they seem to have got that
hard-to-pull-off blend of classic look, contemporary
feel just right. There’s a plasma-screen TV, high
thread-count sheets, stripped wooden floors –
everything, in fact, screams luxury. This continues in
the bathroom, where we admire twin sinks and a
shower big enough to host a Sumo bout.
When our little one finally drifts off to sleep, we
drift down to the reassuringly grown-up Conservatory
Restaurant. Much more formal than the hotel’s child-
friendly Gumstool Inn, it offers fine, unpretentious
dining in a space filled with high-backed chairs and
tables swathed in white cloths. Head chef Michael Croft
has been working at top hotels for years, and has
garnered plenty of awards while at Calcot, so our
expectations are high. Thankfully, they’re met – and
then some. We devour Dorset crab salad, roasted pork
belly with seared scallops and some of the best beef
I’ve ever tasted. The wine list, too, is excellent, and we
treat ourselves to a delicious bottle of Pomerol.
Full and ridiculously content after the meal, we
take what’s left of the wine through to the comfortable
and stylish lounge, where, on suede sofas beneath low-
level lighting, we relax with a final glass before heading
up to bed.
The hotel is home to a fabulous spa, indoor and
outdoor swimming pools, and a courtyard hot tub that
just begs to be lazed in with a glass of champagne.
There’s even an outdoor open fireplace that roars away
just metres from the water. There are a lot of hotels out
there that put style over substance. Calcot Manor isn’t
one of them – it’s got plenty of substance and now
there’s a healthy coating of style, too.’
Mr Smith says…
‘The hotel is home to afabulous spa, indoor and
outdoor swimming pools, anda courtyard hot tub that just
begs to be lazed in’
Fine & Country National Editorial:Layout 1 05/10/2009 13:54 Page 44
autumn collection | 45
Mrs Smith says…Cotswolds88 HotelKemps Lane, Painswick, Gloucestershire GL6 6YB
Style Versace in verdant surrounds
Setting Pastoral Painswick village
Rooms 17, including three suites
Rates £165–£225; suites from £225–£395, including
breakfast.
Smith Factor The brainchild of the larger-than-life
character behind flamboyant, kitsch cocktailerie,
Loungelover in East London, Marchella De Angelis,
Cotswolds88hotel is a temple to Italian design. The
name may be straightforward, but that’s all that is.
Gloriously over-the-top touches such as PVC-backed
chairs and chrome mannequins vie for attention with
the hotel’s own Palladian backdrop, and the result is a
space that’s luxurious and super-stylish, and that has a
cheeky sense of humour. We love the six Detmar rooms
– named after the famous 20th-century architect – with
their vivid red accent colours, playful atmosphere and
giant lip prints on the wall.
There’s little indication that anything eccentric lies
behind the hotel’s classical grey Palladian façade: its
neatly coiffed bushes and groomed lawn are all so far, so
country house. As we gaze across the sheep-dotted hills
in the distance, it’s all swoon-stirring Jane Austen-
evoking stuff.
Yet it’s the interior we’re eager to see. Up a few
small stone stairs and one foot into the hallway and we
realise this is anything but a conventional Cotswolds
retreat. This is the kind of establishment where your
eyes dart excitedly from object to artwork. A cursory
peek at the retro-rich bar and black-and-white-striped
restaurant, and it’s up the steps to the reception with a
quick crane of the neck to admire an original carved
ribbed-and-bossed ceiling.
The super-lovely receptionist is a platinum-blonde
bombshell in Vivienne Westwood choker. She shows us
to our suite. A mishmash of imaginative old and new,
with a backdrop of glorious leaded windows looking out
onto green gardens, and across to that postcard-perfect
hillside. Tea on the lawn below, relaxing on modern
undulating loungers that resemble reclining Henry
Moores is clearly a must.
After a meander around pretty Painswick, we make
it back in time for champagne cocktails. Supper selected
over aperitifs, we decamp to the monochrome dining
room where an enormous oversized fabric bow
dominating most of the back wall elicits a gasp from us
both. Our restaurant critic hats on, we put the young
server’s sommelier skills to the test. He confidently
recommends the cheapest of three rosés. If he’s
anything less than knowledgable we can’t tell, as his
suggestions are delivered with reassuring conviction. It’s
an unexpected treat when a celeriac soup arrives to
amuse our geules.
After a heavenly night’s sleep, a long lazy soak in
our splendid bathroom, and breakfast in the dining
room, we’ve barely enough time for a tramp around
town. We’d love to stay longer, but the Big Smoke is
calling us home. We trot back to Costswolds88 to airkiss
it farewell.
‘This is the kind of establishment where youreyes dart excitedly from object to artwork.’
Fine & Country National Editorial:Layout 1 05/10/2009 13:54 Page 45
46 | autumn collection
Mr Smith says…WhitehouseChillington, Devon TQ7 2JX
Style Gorgeous Georgian
Setting Charming Chillington village
Rooms Six
Rates £180–£230, including full English or Continental
breakfast, afternoon tea and tax. You can rent the whole
house (sleeping 12) for £2,800 for two nights; with
£1,300 for each additional night.
Smith Factor Just a short meander from the South
Devon shoreline, hidden away in the little village of
Chillington, Whitehouse is the perfect getaway for
style-seasoned city types hankering for a rustic rest-
stop. The Georgian buildings have been a doctor’s
surgery, a residence for GIs, and a private home in their
time, but today they’ve finally found their true calling as
one of Devon’s most welcoming and intimate boutique
hotels. Outside, you’ll find lush green gardens and a
croquet lawn (occasionally ornamented by the hotel’s
two cats). Inside is a harmonious old-meets-new
medley of chunky furniture, smooth pastel walls, and
fireside snugness. The six rooms feature hand-made
wooden beds, roll-top claw-foot baths, and showers
like a jungle downpour. Peek in the bathroom and you’ll
find a collection of the hotel’s own line of hand-made
toiletries. As for what to do while you’re here? Well,
you’re in Chillington, and the clue is in the name…
‘Whitehouse is the opposite of a big, soulless
corporate hotel. Its owners are in fact three friends,
each playing a hands-on role in hotel operations, and
all happy to address guests’ requirements personally.
One of them, Ally, is the gifted chef behind the
restaurant’s fresh and hearty platters, and frequently
opens the kitchen to show off her Aga, with special
dinners and wine-tasting evenings frequently
appearing on the event schedule.
There are only six rooms, and I speak only for the
one we stayed in, the Attic – ample space, comfortable
pillow-laden beds, a showerhead comparable to the
steering wheel of an articulated truck, and a colour
scheme that echoes the name of the hotel. Make no
mistake: this isn’t an escape aimed at hippy types who
favour singsongs round open fires over a few modcons;
the extras in our room included an espresso machine,
flatscreen TV with all the Sky and DVD trimmings, a
DAB radio and a well-stocked minibar.
What grabbed me was the abundance of sofas
and roaring fires that make every room a perfect place
to kick back with a book or the Sunday papers after a
coastal stroll. The headline act, however, is what they
stick on my plate. From the just-baked scones, loaded
with clotted cream and local jam, through to the
delicately salty Salcombe smokie, the fresh, mostly
local ingredients were always excellent. Thank you, Ally
and co.
Rather than a common-or-garden fancy hotel,
staying at the Whitehouse feels like spending the
weekend with stylish, hospitable (and significantly
better off) friends. Its appearance is the result of the
owners’ good taste rather than the work of an interior
designer, and it’s more a place to feel comfortable in
than marvel at. We were looking for something
quintessentially English, and we were lucky enough to
find a homely hideaway in the middle of a splendid
county. And don’t let its American-presidential-abode
name distract: this hip hotel makes you feel truly
patriotic. Rule Britannia, indeed.’g
‘Staying at the Whitehouse feelslike spending the weekend withstylish, hospitable (andsignificantly better off) friends’
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48 | autumn collection
Mr Smith says…Tuddenham MillHigh Street, Tuddenham, Near Newmarket, Suffolk
IP28 6SQ
Style Streamlined gourmet getaway
Setting Brink of the Suffolk Brecks
Rooms 15
Rates £195–£395, including breakfast.
Smith Factor This 18th-century Suffolk hotel is a
converted water mill in 12 acres of land, enhanced
with a sleek, minimalist restaurant and super-
stylish boudoirs with high-spec Starck-fitted
ensuites. Tuddenham Mill is somewhere to while
away a lazy sunny afternoon playing boules by a
swan-studded pond, or cosied up on statement
furniture in a spacious lounge bar under original
exposed beams. With delicious food confronting you
at every turn (home-made biscuits in your room;
jars of pickle at reception), you’ll hardly go hungry,
but for a change of scene, take your pick from
Newmarket’s restaurants and cafés, or head into
Bury St Edmunds.
‘About as close to Manhattan as you’ll get in Suffolk,
Tuddenham Mill is akin to a downtown NY hotel – set in 12
acres of gorgeous Brecks-borders land. The reception,
with its generous glass double doors, welcomes you into a
large lobby with cool greys and flagstone floors. Catching
our eyes in the corner is a blazing fire; the ambience is
relaxed and inviting and we are entirely ready to collapse
onto the clean-lined furniture.
We’re sleeping in the eaves of the mill, and it turns
out to be a huge, double?height, beamed barn of a
bedroom, resplendent in sleek, Italian?designed
minimalism. We can’t help but wonder what the
mill?workers who used to toil their lives away here would
make of our lazy-lubber weekend. Knowing that this hotel
revolves around its restaurant, and wizard Scots chef
Gordon McNeill, we’re thrilled it’s time for dinner. Centre
stage, behind the bar, is the original waterwheel; it
becomes a real showpiece by night when its full glory is
illuminated by pulsating up-lights. Even patrons who take
a table upstairs can peer down, through a glass floor-
panel, at the mighty and beautiful machinery – lovingly
restored, yet still resolutely functional.
The kitchen team doesn’t disappoint, delivering
inventive, courageous, witty and hearty fare – not suited to
the squeamish, though: Gordon’s signature dish, ‘A Taste
of the Highlands’, features haggis spring roll and shin of
beef stovi. Opposite me, a seafood salad is being devoured
– Cromer crab, crayfish tails, king scallops, peeled
prawns – a reminder that we’re not far from fleets of
fishing vessels. The wine list is not only excellent, but also
reasonably priced. Even the glassware is fabulous;
bulbous bowls that fill your palm, perfect for each slug of
shiraz. Clearly, Tuddenham Mill is a place that’s perfectly
suited to foodies who like proper portions and are happy
to hole themselves up in this culinary fantasyland.’
‘A place that’s perfectly suited tofoodies who like proper portionsand are happy to hole themselvesup in this culinary fantasyland’
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autumn collection | 49
Mrs Smith says…The Brew House Hotel1 Warwick Park, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 5TA
Style Crisp modern makeover
Setting Pantiles-handy Warwick Park
Rooms 10
Rates £150–£195, including full English breakfast.
Smith Factor With super-spa pampering and quirky
boutiques all but a genteel totter away, the Brew
House Hotel is a great choice for couples in need
of some serious pampering. If you’ve come to
escape the stresses of city life, you’ll find plenty of
greenery to soothe souls: there’s miles of open
Weald-land to explore. Inside the Brew House, the
minimalist decor is saved from coldness by clever
flashes of colour and touches of texture: orange
chandeliers warm up the hotel’s fantastic little
cocktail bar, while a pink pillar or two provide
focus in the elegant restaurant. Upstairs, the
white-on-white theme continues in the bedrooms,
with a calming palette of greys, taupes and creams
used to add warmth via soft furnishings. Our
favourite feature? The catch-me-if-you-can glass
bathroom walls, which flick from frosty to clear at
the touch of a button – hours of fun before you’ve
even stepped outside…
‘Set in the heart of the town centre on Warwick
Park, the Brew House Hotel is a beauty – even when
compared to the other stunners in the vicinity. Think
warm pink stone interspersed with pale cream and a
peaked arch top, and two round semi-circular windows
on the ground floor that reveal flashes of pristine white
and a soft spotlight glow.
Judging by the clean lines in the lobby, I’m
steeling myself for something rather minimalist, but am
pleasantly surprised, elated even, to see that the Brew
House has managed to pull off that trickiest of tricks –
contemporary design using stark colours, yet still
managing to infuse the room with warmth. The black
glass furniture might have made the room severe, but
cleverly, they’ve added touches such as champagne,
silver and white fabric blinds and a black silk bedspread
with a gold underside.
I don’t anticipate any major hurdles – until I switch
on the bathroom light, that is. The door is made of clear
glass. A jumble of situations – most of them ghastly –
present themselves in my head. While my voice gets
increasingly high-pitched, Mr Smith calmly flicks a
switch next to the light and the door frosts into opaque.
My hero.
Before dinner, we hit the hotel bar, which has the
same decor as the restaurant, barring a blue light-filled
panel of glass, strange octopus neon chandeliers,
plump white chairs and dark wood floors. The Number
One restaurant is almost at full capacity; I believe it’s
because the Brew House offers good food – minus
stratospheric prices. Champagne, Chablis, pinot noir,
two starters and mains all came in at less than £100.
Back in the room, the distilled silence filtering
though the sea of trees and quiet that surrounds
Tunbridge Wells awaits us. Egyptian cotton sheets
soothe our food-heavy bodies with a soft touch, and this
spotlit bubble, high above the madding crowds, is the
place that Mr Smith and I love best.’
‘The Brew House has managed topull off that trickiest of tricks –contemporary design using starkcolours, yet still managing toinfuse the room with warmth.’
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At Home in Britain’s Best HomeSharon Kilby talks to Property Consultant Amanda Barrington
Fine & Country National Editorial:Layout 1 05/10/2009 13:56 Page 53
Resting magically amongst the heavilyscented and lush woodland of the HarghamEstate in Norfolk stands a shining exampleof modern architecture at its mostinspiring. Breathtakingly in appearanceWoods End is a striking combination ofcontemporary and traditional design thatcaptures the very essence of modern living.It is no great surprise therefore thatproperty boasts the impressive accolade of‘Britain’s Best Home’ and has receivedpraise from numerous respected architectsand designers. Woods End was voted thewinner of Channel 5 series “I own Britain’sBest Home” by public vote beating 27 otherhouses in the series all vying for therevered title and the £20,000 prize moneywhich owner Amanda Barrington donatedto 3 Charities.
Woods End was created by renowneddesigner and property developer AmandaBarrington and offers state of the artcontemporary living in a natural andecologically sensitive environment. Havingpainstakingly researched the very bestenvironmentally efficient constructiontechniques, the completed house nowblends in harmoniously with the landscape.With a natural eye for good design Amandahas a wealth of experience in bringingbuildings to life and her work as aconsultant has lead to her involvement in
many exciting interior and exterior projects.Commissions have included lifestyle officesand apartments in London, periodproperties in the country and even a veryswanky seaside beach-hut.
The award for Britain’s Best Home wasconfirmed following the course of 8 heatswhere architectural designer MichaelHomes and interior consultant MelissaPorter and property journalist RussellHarris put 24 of the U.K. homes throughtheir paces as 24 hour “live in guests”.Their task was to interview owners whowere passionate about their homes andhave toiled over build, design andrenovation, leaving their own personalstamp on their buildings. Michael HomesArchitect and Property Designer said ofWoods End “This is truly a remarkablepiece of Architecture which has taken fullconsideration of eco credentials”.
The location of Woods End was pivotalto its creation and the natural undulation ofthe landscape and the gentle sweepingcurves of the river are all mirrored in theshape and style of the building. PropertyConsultant and owner of Woods EndAmanda Barrington explains how her ideasstarted to become realty “The moment Ivisited the plot I could visualize clearly howthe house would look and feel, the flow ofthe river and the gentleness of the g
Fine & Country National Editorial:Layout 1 05/10/2009 13:56 Page 54
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Fine & Country National Editorial:Layout 1 05/10/2009 13:57 Page 55
56 | autumn collection
surroundings all called for a property thatsat comfortably in its natural environment. I had spent two years trying to find the perfectplot whilst also researching responsiblebuilding techniques. One of the mostimportant factors for me was to make themost of the fantastic light that fills the area.”
Sitting within 2 acres of landscapedand natural gardens, the surroundingcountryside provides a harmoniousbackdrop to the rich hues of the timberclad building. Having bought the plot in2001 Amanda enlisted the services ofaward winning architects Roderick Jameswho interpreted Amanda’s ideas into aworkable design. Encompassing manyecologically sound elements the finishedhouse goes that extra mile when it comesto achieving a perfect balance betweenluxury living and responsible building.
Utilising traditional constructionmethods alongside contemporarytechnology and natural materials WoodsEnd embodies the very best of both classicand modern design. An innovative fusion ofstyles the house maximises on the brightNorfolk light which floods the interior of thebuilding creating a calm and tranquil space.
The exterior has a timeless quality andis easy on the eye; it enjoys gently curvingroofs topped with flowering sedum whichprovide a pretty display of white and pinkflowers during the summer. Built on stiltsthe house is able to ‘breathe’ and the aircan circulate around the buildingeliminating any stale air and potential dampareas. Woods End is healthy on so manylevels providing clear light, unpolluted airand the use of natural materials alsomeans that no harmful toxins have beenused in the construction process.
Organic materials have also beenthroughout the house including majesticDouglas Firs grown and supplied from asustainable UK source at Longleat, which
have been crafted to form the frame, whilstthe exterior of the building has beenenveloped in Redwood Cedar.
Woods End enjoys exquisite views ofthe garden designed by Amanda whichincludes a Japanese style water feature,bridges, decks and terraces all designed tocomplement the location and provide spacefor relaxation. The stream that flowsthrough the grounds brings a Zen likequality to the space and adds a sense oftranquility and calm.
Having really studied the landscapeand its intrinsic character Amanda had avery clear vision of how the house shouldbe built. “I felt that the house needed tolook and feel as if it had naturally evolvedfrom the land. The building needed to beexceptional in order to do justice to itslocation and we have kept true to this visionwithout compromise. The house evenchanges naturally with the seasons, thesedums on the roof take on a lavender huein the autumn and the cedar claddingbecomes darker and more intense duringthe winter. In the summer months the roofenjoys a sprinkling of white flowers and thetimber walls of the house become lighter”.
The interior of the house is equallybreathtaking with open plan living spaces
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autumn collection | 57
and the temperature is ambient all yearround thanks to the thoroughly efficientthermal and sound insulation together withstate of the art windows which cut outharmful ultra violet rays whilst alsoensuring against heat loss.
With function and form being adheredto in each space the building has beenthoughtfully designed to allow a naturalflow from room to room. Floor to ceilingwindows have been introduced in manyareas and high quality contemporaryfittings add to the overall feeling ofunderstated luxury. The four bedrooms allenjoy views across the gardens andbathrooms have limestone floors, walls andsurfaces and are fitted with Boffi andFantini sanitary ware.
The floors are predominately oak in theliving areas and limestone in thebathrooms and are laid over a sophisticatedunderfloor heating system, the mattkitchen has been designed by BOC Designof Chelsea using white cabinetry by Hacker.
Designed to be both comfortable andstylish Amanda’s eye for detail is clearlyevident and the living space has an air ofrelaxed sophistication. Using localcraftsmen and suppliers to create a uniqueand restful interior, fittings are all of thevery highest specifications. Doors havebeen handmade in Ash, movementsensitive lighting is fitted throughout,electric Lutron blinds can be activatedremotely and the whole house enjoys wi-fiand satellite links.
Drawing much inspiration from the Far East Amanda’s style is unique andwhilst recognising the requirements of acontemporary lifestyle she has successfullyachieved a harmonious balance betweenexterior and interior living. “This house hasits own sense of calm and serenity which Iam sure reflects the fact that it has beenrespectfully built taking the landscape into
consideration from the very beginning. It isa wonderful place in which to live and has apositive effect on everyone that visits”.
Amanda Barrington is available for
exterior and interior design consultancy,
Woods End is currently for sale for more
information please visit
www.woodsendnorfolk.co.uk or call
Amanda Barrington on 07740 411710.
Fine & Country National Editorial:Layout 1 05/10/2009 13:58 Page 57
Alice in Wonderland
Headpiece: Louis MariettePhotographer: Dave Wise assisted by Ben Lycett
Stylist: Rivkie BaumModel: Mecia Simpson @ Models 1
(Winner of Britain’s Next Top Model)Dress: Grace Shannan
Shoes: Guiseppe ZanottiHair: Noel Gibbins assisted by Laura Hunt
Make-up: Lauren Baker
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autumn collection | 59
Milliner extraordinaire!
Exotic bejewelled headpieces, bespoke hat couture, inspiring
accessories… a talent that isrising head and shoulders above
the competition, as well as abeckoning TV career.
Allie Philpin had the pleasure of talking to the charismatic Louis Mariette
about his exciting life and fabulous luxury creations.
Louis Mariette, Britain’s next top model judge
Photographer: David Venni
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60 | autumn collection
Louis was born in Malawi but grew up inBotswana and Swaziland - add to that hisMauritian origins. As a child he wasfascinated by all flora and fauna. His loveof nature and creative design became achildhood passion that has stood him ingood stead, together with his flair forartistic imagination.
His siblings went into the hotelindustry, and Louis duly followed. But hewas soon running an exclusive partyplanning business - themed parties withfabulous table pieces and décor, alldesigned by Louis, and this is where he‘dipped his toes’ into headpieces forguests using the colour palettes of thedécor, flowers and trimmings. Louis says,
“It was quite extraordinary; althoughmy training is in hotels, the requests forheadpieces just seemed to take over andnext thing I knew, I’m being asked todesign the headpieces for a fashion show!”
The fashion show in question was inMilan, Italy and the man asking was MichaelDye, the Creative Director – 25 headpieces,all bespoke for each outfit. After months of
work matching materials, threads andtrimmings, the organisers requested a fulldress rehearsal and presentation of theheadpieces. “It was amazing,” says Louis,“all the models wore their outfits with theirheadpieces and presented them to theorganisers. They were all Italian, which Ididn’t speak; they didn’t speak English andthey showed no emotion or expression, so Ihad no idea what they thought… heart in themouth time!” Michael Dye eventually putLouis’ mind at rest, they loved all hiscreations, except one, and his career as amilliner escalated.
Not long after the fashion show, Louisreceived a telephone call from potentialclients asking to meet at his studio. “I wasso surprised, my first commission and thecall came out of the blue. I didn’t even askwho they were!” said Louis. He soon foundout… Harrods! They commissioned him tocreate all their window and shop floordisplays, as well as providing helpful tipsand advice to their clientele; and the rest,
as they say, is history. And recently,his ‘Diffusion’ accessory range has been
picked up by Net-a-Porter.com, theworld’s premier luxury online retailer.
Each and every headpiece oraccessory that Louis creates is completelybespoke. His inspiration comes from hischildhood homes and his many travelsaround the world, drawing on the amazingscenery he sees and different cultures hevisits. “The Bhutanese people in theHimalayas are inspirational,” says Louis.Louis works closely with the client, andsays, “Hats are a very personal accessoryand different creations look different ondifferent people; it’s very individual.”
In April this year, Louis was invited tobe one of the judges on Living TV’s‘Britain’s Next Top Model’. “Wonderful andso exciting!” says Louis. Workingalongside Lisa Snowdon and Icelandicphotographer, Huggy Rugnarsson, Louiswas the ‘couture fashion’ element of thethree. “Working with Lisa and Huggy hasbeen just great,” says Louis. “I wasencouraged to be just myself… we haddifferent views on the models, but weworked well together. It’s hard for modelstoday, they have to be so multi-functionalwhich isn’t an easy task,” he says. Withinthe show, one of the tasks for the modelswas to present themselves to a selectionof his clientele, which was challenging.Another task for the models was to re-create his stunning ‘Princess Neptune’headpiece shoot (Photographer: ZenaHolloway, Stylist: Heidi Taylor), which wonthe Best Hat of 2008 Award from TatlerHong Kong. “It was such a hard thing todo,” says Louis. “The models had toimmerse themselves in a tank of g water,and we had all the safety divers andprofessional photographers ready to takethe right shot… all very impressive!” Thelast show of the series is was ‘Alice inWonderland’ theme and Louis created theheadpieces for this finale. Would he do itagain? “Oh, very definitely!” says Louis, g
Bejewelled
Photographer: Catherine HarbourModel: Lucy Davis at Acclaim
Make-up: Lan Nguyen
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Alice in Wonderland
Headpiece: Louis MariettePhotographer: Dave Wise assisted by Ben Lycett
Stylist: Rivkie BaumModel: Mecia Simpson @ Models 1
(Winner of Britain’s Next Top Model)Dress: Grace Shannan
Shoes: Guiseppe ZanottiHair: Noel Gibbins assisted by Laura Hunt
Make-up: Lauren Baker g
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64 | autumn collection
Flame of Desire
Photographer: Camille SansonHair: Claudio ContrastiMake-up: Lan Nguyen
Dress: Gething
“it has been such a fabulous and excitingproject!”
In 2005, Louis was catapulted into thehighest echelons of bespoke hat couturewith the creation of the world’s mostexpensive hat, the £1.5million Chapeaud’Amour (Photographer: Alice Wilby,Stylist: Michael Dye). The headpiece wascommissioned by Harrods for the openingof their Hat and Evening Wear department.“The hat was inspired by my Mauritianroots,” recalls Louis, “and we were stillfinishing the little details just the daybefore! It is woven with platinum fabric(from the Platinum Guild) as well asdiamonds and was modelled, of course, bythe gorgeous Lisa Butcher.”
And the accolades keep coming… in2006 he was awarded the Celebration ofLife Jewellery Design Award in FashionAccessories by The Tanzanite Foundation,and in 2007 i-D name him one of the 250most creative people. As recently as 2009,the Luxury Marketing Council Europeawarded Louis the Most InnovativeProduct Design-Range at their LuxuriaAwards… not bad for an artistic andimaginative child with a passion for floraand fauna!
Louis’ talent, flair, inspiration and ‘joiede vivre’ have certainly captured theimagination of many – photographers,designers and creative directors – and areworn by the famous and glamorous suchas Joan Collins, Jodie Kidd, Paris Hilton,Pink (the singer), Erin O’Connor, JerryHall, Kate Moss, Olga Kurylenko, PrincessSabina von Stentel and StephanieSeymour to name but a few, and he workswith leading international companies likethe Plantinum Guild, Swarovski, Harrods,Boucheron, Links,
The Dorchester, the Royal OperaHouse and Cliveden House.
And when he’s not working on his
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autumn collection | 65
fabulous creations? Louis immerseshimself into his other passions – interiors,sport such as jet skiing, snow skiing,anything that is fun! “I love animals, myfather was a vet, and I was recently ajudge at a Dog Show on behalf of theMacmillan Cancer Trust,” Louis tells us,and he has just been appointed a VicePresident of The Children’s Trust as wellas being a patron of the St Thomas LupusTrust… all this as well as his marathonrunning – 7 so far, including this year’sLondon Marathon!
Another passion is his love of therainforests. “It is so important to protectthese environments, such as in Brazil,”says Louis, “it’s so important becauseonce they’re gone, they cannot bereplaced!” he enthuses.
Louis’ outlook is to live life to the fulland enjoy yourself. “I was a judge at theHat Show at Royal Ascot this year whichwas great fun, so exciting!” he laughs.“I’ve been blessed with a fantastic thirtysix years so far and I hope to be blessedwith many more! To be happy, adventurousand above all to have fun… who could askfor more?”
And his ambition? “I love my work andwant to go on creating new and inspiringheadpieces, as well as expanding anddeveloping my brand and designs intodifferent areas, like the accessories,”Louis explains. “I also love Thailand, it’smy favourite country. I’d love to open asmall boutique or hotel over there, with aluxurious environment and feel, andattention to detail of course.”
His enthusiasm is captivating, hisenergy is incredible, his talent isunquestionably huge, and coupled with hischarisma and love of life, this particularmilliner is destined to be a star.
www.louismariette.co.uk
Flight of Fantasy
Photographer: Ian Gillet at London Fashion Week for theManish Arora catwalk show
Miss Tick Tock
Photographer: Ross PerkinsModel: Jasmia at AcclaimDress: Gething
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66 | autumn collection
“Running a restaurant is like putting on a live show every day –
but without a script.”
The cast assembles at 7am every
morning, five days a week,
backstage in the kitchen of
Royal Hospital Road. Silently
and in total concentration, they
rehearse their roles: preparing
up to 15 sauces from stocks that
have been bubbling away
overnight; prepping the
vegetables; filleting the fish;
par-cooking the risotto; or
caramelising the tarte tatins to
be finished off during service.
This five-hour mise-en-place
ahead of lunch is when 90 per
cent of the work is done.
Front of house Jean-Claude,
Gordon’s long-serving maitre d,
casts a final eye over the dining
room to make sure that every
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autumn collection | 67
glass, every piece of cutlery is in
place. Soon the audience will
take their seats and expect
another flawless performance.
Better than anyone, Gordon
knows that running a restaurant
is like putting on a show, a
selfcontained drama in three
acts. People come to be fed, but
they also come to be entertained.
The smile on arrival, the
discreet service, the playfulness
of a pineapple and chilli soup
– all are calculated to bring that
buzz of excitement. “It has to be
dramatic because customers
vote with their feet. If they
aren’t excited by the way they
eat, they won’t come back,
simple as that.”
Fine & Country National Editorial:Layout 1 05/10/2009 13:59 Page 67
68 | autumn collection
AND SO THE SHOW BEGINS. As in any three-star restaurant, this is
signalled by the arrival of the amuse-bouches, literally ‘entertainments
for the mouth’. Their gastronomic function is to get the tastebuds
going, to tease the palate with the promise of the delights to follow.
More than this, though, they help to put diners at their ease as they
settle into their new surroundings, drawing their focus to the task in
hand – to surrender to the unalloyed luxury that is a three-star meal.
Fine & Country National Editorial:Layout 1 05/10/2009 13:59 Page 68
autumn collection | 69
Fine & Country National Editorial:Layout 1 05/10/2009 13:59 Page 69
70 | autumn collection
PAN-RIED SCALLOPS WITH A MILLEFEUILLE OF POTATO,PARMASAN VELOUTÉ AND TRUFFLE SMARTIES
Fine & Country National Editorial:Layout 1 05/10/2009 13:59 Page 70
autumn collection | 71
NOW THE KITCHEN MOVES INTO GEAR. A pre-starter is dispatched, again to
heighten anticipation but also to win the chefs a little more time to
prepare the first dish to be cooked to order. “You don’t want to give guests
time to get bored, or they’ll start picking holes in the décor. Their starter
should be on the table within 15 minutes of ordering, max.”
Extracts taken from the Gordon Ramsay book, Three Star Chef.All photographs © Quentin Bacon
‘Three Star Chef ’ is currently available via all good book storeswww.quadrille.co.uk
Restaurant, Gordon Ramsay,68, Royal Hospital Road, Chelsea, London SW3 4HP
Fine & Country National Editorial:Layout 1 05/10/2009 13:59 Page 71
Input Joinery Ltd was established in 1979 to produce all aspects of bespoke joinery. The company is based on the outskirts of Andover, Hampshire in a purpose built factory equipped with state-of-the-art computer controlled machinery operated by traditionally skilled craftsmen.
Our product range is virtually limitless, but includes; high performance doors and windows, staircases, conservatories, orangeries, lantern lights, sliding folding doors...just ask. Give us a call on:
01264 771900
The Fairground, Weyhill, Andover, Hampshire SP11 0ST
www.inputwindows.co.uk
PROUDLY BUILT IN
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join er y | 'join re |nounthe wooden components of a building, such as stairs, doors, windows and conservatories, viewed collectively.
e- HARDWOODWINDOWS AND
CONSERVATORIES
At Brightwood, every one of our hardwood windows, doors,
conservatories and orangeries is unique and designed to
complement your home and lifestyle.
We are justifi ably proud of our quality and invite you to
arrange an appointment to visit our showroom and tour
our factory to see for yourself why. Give us a call on:
01264 771900
The Fairground, Weyhill, Andover, Hampshire SP11 0ST
www.brightwood-conservatories.co.uk
PROUDLY BUILT IN
BRITAIN
Fine & Country National Editorial:Layout 1 05/10/2009 14:00 Page 72
WINTER COLLECTION 73
Andrew Grantwww.andrew-grant.co.uk
Clyro, Herefordshire£1,295,000A Country Residence of Considerable CharacterCommanding Finest Black Mountain Views.Approaching 10 Acres.
5 reception rooms, kitchen, 6 bedrooms (3 en-suite),bathroom, approx: 4300 sq ft, garage, observatory, gardens,Scotts stable block, outbuildings, paddocks, woodland.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Bevere, Worcestershire£1,275,000A Spectacular Country Residence of 5400 sq ft (500 sq m)GIA approx. with Panoramic Views 1.66 ac (0.68 ha).
Reception/dining hall, drawing room, kitchen/breakfast room,utility, gymnasium, cloakroom, study, 5 bedrooms(2 en-suite), 2 bathrooms, garage, tennis court, gardens.
Telephone: 01905 734735
74 WINTER COLLECTION
Andrew Grant www.andrew-grant.co.uk
Bransford, Worcestershire£1,250,000A Lifestyle Opportunity, Stylish Residence Overlooking ItsOwn Extensive Fisheries. 5.6 Ac (2.3 Ha) approx.
3 reception rooms kitchen, 4 bedrooms (all en-suite).Annexe: In all 3350 sq ft (310 sq m) GIA approx.Garage, fishing lodge, 3 fishing lakes, extensive aviaries.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Elmley Lovett, Worcestershire£1,200,000A Distinguished Grade II Listed Residence of ImmenseCharacter, around 7000 sq ft, Approx 12.5 acres.
Elizabethan hall, 3 receptions, kitchen/breakfast room, utility,boot room, 6 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 3 attics, s/c cottage,garaging, stables, outbuildings, garden, paddocks.
Telephone: 01905 734735
WINTER COLLECTION 75WINTER COLLECTION 75
Andrew Grantwww.andrew-grant.co.uk
Alvechurch, Worcestershire£1,190,000A Magnificent Principle Residence and Neighbouring CottageIdeal for Extended or Dual Families & Annexe Purposes.
Croft House: Exceptional living room, study, sitting room, dining room, kitchen breakfast room, 4 bedrooms, 1 en-suite,bathroom, integral double garage, three bay dutch barn. The Cottage: Living room, dining room, kitchen breakfast room,3 double bedrooms, 1 en-suite, bathroom, detached garage.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Bromsgrove, Worcestershire£1,195,000A First Class Country House in the Town with AdjoiningCoach House. In all around 6,425 sq ft.
Drawing room, dining room, kitchen-breakfast/day room,study, master bedroom suite, four further bedrooms,principle and secondary bathrooms. Coach House: Extensive garaging/workshops, bedrooms
Telephone: 01905 734735
76 WINTER COLLECTION
Andrew Grant www.andrew-grant.co.uk
Studley, Warwickshire£995,000A Particularly Impressive Detached Residence Occupyingan Attractive Setting amongst Secluded Grounds.
Hall with Gallery Landing, 4 receptions, Kitchen & Utility,5 Bedrooms, 2 En-Suite, Bathroom, Games room, Garage &Stores, Landscaped Grounds & Private Woodland,Approximately 2 Acres.
Telephone: 01527 66161
Pedmore, West Midlands£1,050,000Immaculately Presented Imposing Residence Situated InGated Development.
Hall, 4 reception rooms, kitchen, utility, cloakroom, bootroom, galleried landing to master bedroom, dressing roomand en-suite, five further bedrooms with 3 en-suites,bathroom, triple garage and gardens.
Telephone: 01384 370232
WINTER COLLECTION 77
Andrew Grantwww.andrew-grant.co.uk
Pedmore, West Midlands £995,000A Gentleman’s Residence Situated in One of the Most ProminentLocations in the West Midlands.
Hall, cloakroom, 4 receptions, kitchen, utility, boiler room, WC,4 bedrooms, 2 en-suites, bathroom (approx. 3,767 sq ft). Garage andwell established garden.
Telephone: 01384 370232
Stourbridge, West Midlands £995,000Fine Detached Residence, being 5,987 sq ft with Electric Gates inSought after Location. No Upward Chain, Part ExchangeConsidered For a Smaller Property in Stourbridge Area.
Hall, cloakroom, 4 reception rooms, kitchen, snug, conservatory,utility room, shower room, function room, 5 bedrooms, en-suite,2 bathrooms, garage with loft accommodation, club house, gardens.
Telephone: 01384 370232
Blakedown, Worcs £985,000An Exceptional Equestrian Property within A Very Prestigious Areawith Around 42 Acres (17 Ha) Sold As A Whole or In Three Lots.
2 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, 4 bedrooms (1 en-suite),bathroom, 1,766 sq ft (164 sq m) gia approx, 24 stables. Indoor school, allweather manège, 17 paddock enclosures, woodland, bridleway, subject toan agricultural/equestrian occupancy condition.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Bridgnorth, Shropshire £985,000A Distinguished Southerly Facing Period Residence ofConsiderable Character (5600 sq ft (520 sq m) GIA approx).
4 reception rooms, kitchen, 9 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, swimmingpool, stabling, electrically operated gates, garden, ha-ha, paddock,approximately 6.5 acres.
Telephone: 01905 734735
78 WINTER COLLECTION
Andrew Grant www.andrew-grant.co.uk
Pedmore, West Midlands£1,050,000A five bedroomed residence originally built circa 1930’sand situated in this sought after location.
Hall, fitted cloakroom, 4 reception rooms, utility, gamesroom, 5 Bedrooms, 2 en-suites, Jack and Jill style bathroom,double garage and front and rear gardens.
Telephone: 01384 370232
Barnt Green, Worcestershire£1,175,000A graceful, exquisitely styled period residence in a firstclass setting
Hall, drawing room, dining room, sitting room,kitchen/breakfast room, 6 bedrooms (2 en-suite), dressingroom, sitting room, around 4000 sq ft, garaging, gardensaround 1 acre.
Telephone: 01905 734735
WINTER COLLECTION 79
Andrew Grantwww.andrew-grant.co.uk
Blakedown, Worcs £975,000In popular location of Blakedown, imposing family home inlandscaped grounds totaling one acre.
Hall, sitting room, dining room, kitchen, utility/stores, cloakroom,master bedroom, bathroom, separate wc, 3 double bedrooms, doublegarage, landscaped gardens, plans to extend subject to pp.
Telephone: 01562 60228
Droitwich, Worcs £985,000A Conveniently Located Character Residence within a ParklandSetting Commanding Magnificent Views. Approx Nine Acres.
Hall, four reception rooms, kitchen, six bedrooms (1 en-suite),two bathrooms, around 3000 sq.ft, garage, lawned gardens, stables,outbuildings, paddocks.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Alvechurch, Worcs £975,000A magnificently situated property and outbuildings with holiday letPP 54 acres (22 ha) approx.
Farmhouse: 2,400 sq ft (225 sq m) GIA approx.Traditional Outbuilding:3400 sq ft (315 sq m) GIA approx.Portal Barn, Long driveway, WildlifeLake, Pastureland with PP for new vehicular access.
Telephone: : 01905 734735
Stourbridge, West Midlands £925,000A Stunning Contemporary Six Bedroom Family Homes in a MostPrestigious Location.
Reception hall, sitting room, kitchen/breakfast room, gym/study,office/dining room, utility, 6 bedrooms (2 en-suite) bathroom(approx. 2,892 sq ft). Triple garage and attractive gardens.
Telephone: 01384 370232
80 WINTER COLLECTION
Birlingham, Worcs £895,000An Exceptional Village Residence with Attached Barn Conversionwith Indoor Heated Swimming Pool.
Sitting room, conservatory, kitchen/dining room, snooker room,6 bedrooms (one en-suite), bathroom, shower room, 3800 sq ft(354 sq m) GIA approx, garage, gardens.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Andrew Grant www.andrew-grant.co.uk
Upper Strensham, Worcs £895,000A Distinguished Residence of Classic Proportions (5200 sq ft (480 sq m) GIA approx).
4 Reception Rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, 6 bedrooms (2 en-suite),2 bathrooms, studio, period outbuilding, garden. Paddock ofapproximately 2 acres available by separate negotiation.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Nr Bromsgrove, Worcs £895,000A Grade II Listed Residence ideal for use as a Bed and Breakfast(approximately 33 ac (13 ha).
4 reception rooms, kitchen, 8 bedrooms (3 en-suite), 2 bathrooms,games room, holiday flat, 6000 ft² (550 m²) GIA approx, periodoutbuildings with holiday let planning consent, moated gardens.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Stone, Worcs £895,000A Period Country House within a Beautiful Location (4600 sq ft(430 sq m) GIA approx approximately 1.5 ac (0.6 ha).
2 reception rooms, kitchen, former dairy, 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms,self-contained annex, traditional garaging, stabling and outbuildings,plants man’s garden, orchard, tennis court, woodland.
Telephone: 01905 734735
WINTER COLLECTION 81
Andrew Grantwww.andrew-grant.co.uk
Sambourne, Warwickshire £895,000A Truly Exceptional Detached Residence Occupying a PremiumLocation Within A Desirable Enclave.
Hall, sitting room, dining room, study, sun lounge, family kitchen & utility, 4 double bedrooms, 2 en-suite, swimming pool, gymnasium & sauna, grounds extending to approx. 2.5 acres. GIA.4290 sq ft.
Telephone: 01527 66161
Blakedown, Worcs £895,000A Handsome Family Home of Immense Quality in aPrestigious Setting.
Living room, dining room, conservatory, kitchen/breakfast room,sun room, study, 5 bedrooms (1 en-suite), bathroom, around 3150 sq ftdouble garage, landscaped gardens.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Stourbridge, West Midlands £895,000An Immaculate Detached Family Residence Situated In A Cul-De-Sac In This Sought After Location.
Hall, cloakroom, 4 reception rooms, dining kitchen with family area,utility, landing, 5 bedrooms, 2 with en-suites, house bathroom,bedroom six/games room, storeroom, triple garage.
Telephone: 01384 370232
Knighton-On-Teme, Worcs £890,000A Grade II Listed Country Residence of Considerable Character.Approx 4.6 Acres (1.9 Ha).
4 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, shower room, 5 bedrooms,bathroom, 2800 sq ft (260 sq m) GIA approx, period outbuildings,mature landscaped gardens, woodland, wildlife pond.
Telephone: 01905 734735
82 WINTER COLLECTION
Wolverley, Worcs £890,000A Resplendent Grade II Listed Attached Period Home ofBreathtaking Proportions.
Hall, cloakroom, drawing room, dining room, kitchen/breakfast/familyroom, laundry. 7 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, shower room, lift, cellarage,approx 7000 sq.ft, communal parkland.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Ockeridge, Worcs £875,000A Character Country Residence 3750 sq ft (350 sq m) GIA approx,within a Blissful Rural Location. Around 1.5 ac (0.60 ha).
4 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, 6 bedrooms (2 en-suite),bathroom, garage with first floor, all-weather tennis court, landscapedgardens, wildlife pond.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Churchill, Worcs £875,000An Individual House in Beautiful Parkland Gardens.Approx 2.25 acres.
Four reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, master bedroom,dressing room, en-suite, second bedroom en-suite, 2 further bedrooms,bathroom, gardens, garaging. Around 3455 sq ft. PP for 2 storey extension.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Bromsgrove, Worcs £825,000Grade II Listed Family Home At The Heart Of The Village. Approx.3 Acres.
Drawing room, dining room, snug, kitchen, breakfast room, gardenroom, cellarage, 6 bedrooms , 1 en-suite, around 4,370 sq ft,outbuildings, gardens, paddock.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Andrew Grant www.andrew-grant.co.uk
LUCTON SCHOOL
www.luctonschool.org
A quality education on your doorstepLucton is a co-educational day andboarding school, with small classesand traditional values.Prince Edward, The Earl of Wessex visited recently as partof Lucton’s tercentenary celebrations. During the visit,Prince Edward met a number of prep school pupils andsaw some excellent swimming displays in the newswimming pool, which he agreed to name ‘The WessexPool’. The Prince saw the CCF on parade and was highlyentertained by some of the music and drama in the seniorschool.
Lucton has seen strong growth in the last few years andMrs Gill Thorne, Lucton’s Headmistress, is committed toconsistently raising standards. “At Lucton, we are veryfortunate with the high quality of staff we have been ableto attract. My aim is simply to raise standards in everypossible aspect of school life. Recent investments haveincluded a new Sixth Form Centre, IT suites and anindoor swimming pool. A measure of Lucton’s success hasbeen seen in the value-added tables over recent years, inwhich we have consistently performed very well.”
Please call or e-mail now to receive your copy of the Lucton DVD.
Telephone: 01568 [email protected]
84 WINTER COLLECTION
Fernhill Heath, Worcs £795,000A Commanding Family Home of Exceptional Quality bordering theRoyal Grammar School.
Drawing room, dining room, sitting room, kitchen breakfast room,conservatory, family room, leisure room, 4 bedrooms, dressing room,2 en-suite, gardens.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Holt Heath, Worcs £795,000Fabulous Conversion.
Drawing room, dining room, family room, TV room, study, gallerysitting room, kitchen breakfast room, 4 bedroom (3 en-suite), showerroom, around 3670 sq ft, triple garaging, multi-purpose room,landscaped gardens.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Lower Broadheath, Worcs £795,000An Exquisite New Executive Home of Immense Quality in 1 Acre.
Hall, cloakroom, drawing room, dining room/conservatory, kitchenbreakfast room, pantry, utility, 5/6 bedrooms (5 en-suites), gatedentrance, 2 car garage with office over, garden, paddock and stabling.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Newnham Bridge, Tenbury £795,000A Beautifully Presented Georgian House with a StunningNew Orangery.
Drawing room, sitting room, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room,study, cellar with games room and cinema room, master bedroom,dressing room and bathroom, 6 further bedrooms, 2 bathrooms,garden, paddock, outbuildings including 3 bay garage.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Andrew Grant www.andrew-grant.co.uk
WINTER COLLECTION 85
Andrew Grantwww.andrew-grant.co.uk
Burford, Worcs £795,000An Extensive Country Residence with Detached Cottage (in allapprox: 5700 sq ft) mature landscaped gardens.
Principal residence: 5 reception rooms, kitchen, 6 bedrooms (2 en-suite), bathroom, garage. keepers cottage: 2 reception rooms,kitchen, bedroom. outbuilding. Joint Agents: Strutt and Parker 01584 873711.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Malvern, Worcs £795,000An Impressive and Elegant Regency Grade II Listed ResidenceCommanding Glorious Far Reaching Views.
3 reception rooms, kitchen, conservatory, 6 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms,lawned garden, woodland. 4,200 sq ft (390 sq m) GIA approx.In excess of 1 acre.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Worcester, Worcs £790,000A Prototype Executive Newly Built Home fitted and finished to anexceptional level.
4 reception rooms Kitchen, 5 Bedrooms (all en-suite),Study/Playroom, Bathroom, Garage, Balconies, Garden, 5,800 sq ft(540 sq m) GIA approx, all with glorious views.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Kidderminster, Worcs £785,000An Arts And Crafts Residence of Great Architectural Merit within a Highly Prestigious Residential Area.
5 reception rooms, kitchen, 5 bedrooms (2 en-suites), bathroom,shower room, billiard room, three-car garage, 6000 sq ft (560 sq m)GIA approx, swimming pool, gardens.
Telephone: 01905 734735
86 WINTER COLLECTION
Andrew Grant www.andrew-grant.co.uk
Hartlebury, Worcs £775,000Eminent Georgian House in the Heart of the Village.
4 principal receptions, 6 bedrooms, 2 en-suite, studio, cellars.Detached coach house with p.p. Beautiful gardens.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Cockshot Road, Malvern £765,000Large Modern Detached Family Home Located Within GreatMalvern Benefiting From Spacious Multi-Purpose Garden Room.
4 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, utility, garden room,master bedroom with dressing room and en-suite bathroom, 4 furtherbedrooms, 2 with en-suite, gardens, parking, double garage.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Mamble, Worcs £750,000A Distinctive Early Georgian Residence of Immense CharacterStanding Within Elegant Gardens and Grounds.
Hall, 3 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, 4 bedrooms(2 en-suite), bathroom, 3500 sq ft (330 sq m) GIA approx, garage,wildlife pond, woodland, approx 1.8 acre (0.75 ha).
Telephone: 01905 734735
Astwood, Worcs £750,000A Period Village Home Of Exceptional Character Enjoying MatureGardens Approx An Acre (3664.8 sq ft).
Inglenook reception hall, sitting room, inglenook snug, dining room,country kitchen/breakfast room, 6/7 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, countrygardens, outdoor heated swimming pool, parking, Grade II Listed.
Telephone: 01527 66161
88 WINTER COLLECTION
Andrew Grant www.andrew-grant.co.uk
Hallow, Worcestershire £749,000Exceptional Detached Conversion in Exclusive Setting withCaptivating Views.
Drawing room, dining room, sitting room, study, kitchen – livingroom, recreation room, 5 bedrooms, 2 en-suite and bathroom.Garaging, gardens, approaching 1 acre.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Pedmore, West Midlands £745,000A Spacious 6 Bedroom Double Fronted Detached Residence,Retaining Many Original Features.
Hall, cloakroom, drawing room, dining room, sitting room, rear hall,dining kitchen, boot room, cellar, larder, 6 bedrooms, shower room,bathroom, separate wc (approx. 4,219 sq ft). Garage and gardens.
Telephone: 01384 370232
Hagley, West Midlands £745,000An Immaculate and Deceptively Spacious 5 Bedroomed(Plus Dressing/ Storage Room) Family Residence.
Reception hall, cloakroom, study, dining room, sitting room, diningkitchen, utility, landing, 5 bedrooms, 5 en-suites, dressing/storageroom, double garage, extensive rear garden.
Telephone: 01384 370232
Clent, Stourbridge £745,000A Deceptively Spacious Four/Five Bedroomed Detached DormerBungalow Situated In This Sought After Area.
Hall, cloakroom, sitting room, study/bedroom 5, kitchen, utility,conservatory, 2 bedrooms with en-suite, bedroom 3, bedroom 4 withstudy/sitting room, adjacent storeroom, bathroom, triple garage, gardens.
Telephone: 01384 370232
Simply beautiful…
Traditional freestanding and fitted furniture for:
Kitchen, Utility, Boot-room,Dining Room and Conservatory.
For a brochure call:01367 820895
www.bryceashton.co.uk
BUYING OR SELLINGyour bricks and mortar?The property market may be tough rightnow but it’s not impossible. And to prove it we offer fight-back services for:• Residential property sales and purchases • Home Information packs • Remortgages and equity release • Property auctions • Landlord and Tenant issues • Commercial property
If you’re buying or selling, speak to us first. For initial advice and a quote please contact: Keith Yates
01299 [email protected]
Offices at Worcester & Stourport-on-Severn
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90 WINTER COLLECTION
Andrew Grant www.andrew-grant.co.uk
Clent, Stourbridge £735,000A Well Presented and extended, Impressive Family ResidenceSituated in a Sought after Location.
Reception hall/living room, sitting room, study/family room, diningroom, kitchen, utility, WC, master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, 3 bedrooms, shower room. Extensive gardens, detached doublegarage, within the catchment for Hagley Schools.Telephone: 01384 370232
Sytchampton, Worcs £725,000A Superb Tudor Country Residence within a Highly ConvenientLocation. 3100 sq ft (945 sq m) GIA approx.
3 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, 3 bedrooms, bathroom,self-contained annexe, period outbuilding, garaging, stables,attractively laid out garden.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Astley, Worcs £725,000Conversion of Victorian Farm Buildings Forming 3 Self ContainedProperties with Wealth of Versatile Living Space. Ideal for anExtended Family.
Approx. GIA 4,541 sq ft spilt into dwellings 6 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 2 shower rooms, 3 kitchens, 5 reception rooms, garage/workshopgardens, courtyard and wild flower meadow.
Telephone: 01562 60228
Fernhill Heath, Worcs £725,000An Exceptional Executive Home Situated Within an ExclusiveSetting, Circa 3,432 sq ft.
Breakfast kitchen, family room, dining room, sitting room,conservatory, 4/5 bedrooms, dressing room, 2 en-suites, bathroom,play room and study, double garage, gardens.
Telephone: 01905 734735
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92 WINTER COLLECTION
Andrew Grant www.andrew-grant.co.uk
Hadzor, Worcs £695,000Stunning Contemporary Barn Combining Stylish Modern Designand Exceptional Specification in Popular Village Location.
2 Reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, 4 bedrooms (1 en-suite),bathroom, garage, games room, 3240 sq ft (301 sq m) gia approx,attractively laid out gardens.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Naunton Beauchamp, Worcs £699,000A Magical Village Retreat With Principal Residence andBusiness/Domestic Annexe Around 5.5 Acres.
Drawing room, dining room, sitting room, kitchen breakfast room,4 bedrooms, 1 en-suite, bathroom, garaging, detached annexe,garage/workshop, stabling, gardens, paddock.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Rous Lench, Worcs £675,000An Exceptional and Versatile Period Farmhouse Approaching 4000sq ft.
Drawing room, garden room, sitting room, family/dining room,kitchen-breakfast room, second kitchen, store, boot room, cloak room,6/7 bedrooms, en-suite, bathroom, shower room, garage, groundscirca 1.75 acres.Telephone: 01905 734735
Belbroughton, Worcs £650,000A Unique Property Which Successfully Marries Many PeriodFeatures and Contemporary Fitments.
2 reception rooms, conservatory, stylish kitchen, study/bedroom 5,master bedroom with superb en-suite, 2 further bedrooms with en-suite,bedroom 4 and nursery. Detached double garage with first flooraccommodation.
Telephone: 01527 579977
94 WINTER COLLECTION
Andrew Grant www.andrew-grant.co.uk
Uphampton, Worcs £635,000A Beautifully Presented Period Detached Residence in a Peaceful Hamlet.
Reception hall, cloakroom, 3 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room,utility, 4 bedrooms (1 en-suite), house bathroom, 2-car garage, first floorhome office, delightful cottage garden.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Martin Hussingtree, Worcs £649,000A Highly Versatile Property Conveniently Positioned For MotorwayNetworks. In Excess Of 3.5 Acres.
4 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, 5 bedrooms (two en-suite),bathroom, approx 2600 sq.ft, quadrangle of traditional stables/outbuildings approx 6100 sq.ft, garden, paddock.Joint Agents: Knight Frank 01905 723438.Telephone: 01905 734735
Bromsgrove, Worcs £599,950Period Country Property of Considerable Charm andCharacter Enjoying a Prominent Position within theHeart of Bournheath Village.
Established gardens and woodland measuring approx, 1 acre. detacheddouble garage with room above and parking area for several vehicles.
Telephone: 01527 579977
Clifton-on-Teme, Worcs £595,000A Period Residence with one of the Premier Teme Valley Views.Extending to approx. 1.3 ac (0.50 ha).
3 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, conservatory, 4 bedrooms,2 bathrooms, 2200sq ft (210sq m) GIA approx. Garage, garden, stable,3 paddocks.
Telephone: 01905 734735
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With a special low commission rate of 17.5% for your fi rst year there has never been a better time to make your holiday home work for you!
…don’t shell out on anything less.For your free guide to getting the most out of your holiday home, call Blue Chip Vacations on 0844 561 2001 or visit www.bluechipvacations.com/owners
96 WINTER COLLECTION
Andrew Grant www.andrew-grant.co.uk
Bewdley, Worcs £575,000An Impressive and Prominently Set Newly Built Residence 3735 sq ft (347 sq m) approx.
Reception hall, 2 cloakrooms, drawing room, kitchen dining room,study, utility, games room, 5 bedrooms, 2 en-suite, bathroom, 3 car garage, balconies, gardens.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Docklow, Leominster £595,000A Most Unusual Delightfully Set Country Residence. Approx. 5.5 Acres (2.2 Ha).
4 reception rooms, kitchen, 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 3000 ft² (278m²) GIA approx. Garaging, gardens, wildlife pools, woodland,paddocks and long tree lined drive.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Wolverley, Worcs £375,000 A sympathetic conversion standing within a glorious parkland setting.
Reception hall, sitting room, dining room, kitchen, breakfast room, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms in all approx. 1600 sq ft. Attractively laidout garden, communal grounds.
Telephone: 01905 734735
Lindridge, Nr Abberley £350,000A Beautiful Newly Renovated Three Bedroom Barn Conversionwith Vaulted Ceilings and Open Plan Living.
Garaging, car parking and 1 acre pony paddock all included.
Telephone: 01905 734735