http://www.londonpropertyagents.com/
The luxury lifestyle and property magazine of Beauchamp Estates and Gascoigne Billinghurst LONDON, SURREY & INTERNATIONAL
edition fourspring summer 2008 ferrari scuderia finest homes in london and surrey some like it pink – champagne rosé the great escape home from home burj dubai latest swimwear gleneagles hotel supercars 500 tour & more…
9494CONTENTS
EDITION FOUR
SPRING SUMMER 2008
reside
the luxury lifestyle and property magazine of Beauchamp Estates and Gascoigne Billinghurst LONDON, SURREY & INTERNATIONAL
edition fourspring summer 2008residethe luxury lifestyle and property magazine of Beauchamp Estates and Gascoigne Billinghurst LONDON, SURREY & INTERNATIONAL ferrari scuderia finest homes in london and surrey some like it pink – champagne rosé the great escape home from home burj al arab latest swimwear gleneagles hotel supercars 500 tour & more… Front cover image courtesy of Lürssen Yachts, photographed by Klaus Jordan 128710372794 spring/summer collection
50 within this edition
PROPERTY
12 Residential Sales
A selection of some of the finest properties currently available in London and Surrey from Beauchamp Estates and Gascoigne Billinghurst
111 Residential Sales
A further selection of some of properties currently available from Beauchamp Estates and Gascoigne Billinghurst
126 Residential Lettings
A selection of some of the finest properties currently available to let in London and Surrey from Beauchamp Estates and Gascoigne Billinghurst
145 International Sales
A selection of some of the finest properties currently available from Beauchamp Estates and Gascoigne Billinghurst in France, Turkey, Greece, Italy and St Lucia
LEISURE
50 Some like it pink
Cream Magazines takes a look at how champagne rosé is making a comeback this season
CARS
54 Pride of the prancing horse
Kevin Haggarthy travels to the Ferrari HQ in Maranello and test drives the new Ferrari 430 Scuderia
TRAVEL
65 The great escape
From sexy seaside hideaways to romantic rural retreats, Juliet Kinsman, editor of the Mr & Mrs Smith travel guides, recommends her favourite European short-break destinations
TOURS
72 Stepping up the gears
We take a look at the exciting timetable for the “Supercar 500” tour in 2008
TRAVEL
79 Home from Home
Karen Howes showcases an eclectic mix of beautiful properties from around the world, taken from her book Vacation Homes published by Merrell
ARCHITECTURE
87 A marriage of visionaries
Possibly the finest residences in the world, created by Giorgio Armani and Emaar at Burj Dubai
FASHION
94 Moroccon Heat
With terracotta, spice and shades of sand, Cream chooses Eres swimwear for a sizzling summer
TRAVEL
103 Glorious Gleneagles
The palace in the glen that is Gleneagles Hotel
The Gascoigne Billinghurst and Beauchamp Estates ‘Reside’ Magazine is exclusively publishedby CREAM MAGAZINES LTD,
7b Cromwell Business Centre, New Road, St. Ives, Cambridgeshire PE27 5BG Tel: 01480 395048 Fax: 01480 396049 Advertising/Editorial Enquiries: Steven Hall Tel: 01803 849289 E-mail: steve@propertymag.fsnet.co.uk © Cream Magazines Ltd. 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 does not form part of anyoffer or contract. Seven Developments cannot accept responsibility for any omissions or errors.The views expressed within editorials are those of the writers and not those of Cream Magazines Ltd.
Printed by MPGi using vegetable based inks. MPGi is registered to ISO 14001 environmental standards and approximately 96% of the waste associated with this product will berecycled.The paper used on this product comes from sustainable sources verified by the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification scheme.
541621665spring/summer collection 5
6 http://www.gascoignes.co.uk/ property – luxury new-build, a £700,000 plus traditional Surrey residence or property in the contracts on a St George’s Hill house in excess of £5 million and agreed another sale in St George’s is in positioning properties so they will realise their full potential, and in bringing in the right people to buy. Tanglewood in St George’s Hill, which sold through Gascoigne Billinghurst for in excess of £5 million. 6 http://www.gascoignes.co.uk/ property – luxury new-build, a £700,000 plus traditional Surrey residence or property in the contracts on a St George’s Hill house in excess of £5 million and agreed another sale in St George’s is in positioning properties so they will realise their full potential, and in bringing in the right people to buy. Tanglewood in St George’s Hill, which sold through Gascoigne Billinghurst for in excess of £5 million. GASCOIGNE BILLINGHURST .BEING EARNESTThe importance of STUART COLE, COBHAM BRANCH DIRECTOR Hill at just over £3.3 million – a deal that has now completed. Further deals are going through now and Stuart is already taking steps to see that he delivers dynamic results throughout the spring. “Changing markets with shifting economic circumstances bring more OPPORTUNITIES in the form of totally committed sellers and buyers who only enter the fray if they are serious,” he explains. “We participate with those that are earnest.” In the end, it is about the 3 Ps: Property, Price and People. If you get the right mix, you will achieve the optimum deal. Where Gascoigne Billinghurst excel IIn January the Sunday Telegraph featured the hottest spots to buy property within commuting distance of London. Their first port of call? Gascoigne Billinghurst in Cobham, Surrey.
It was no coincidence. Managing partner Stuart Cole and his team had just signed off £10 million worth of deals in only three days. And that was in the so-called quiet period of December just before Christmas. They topped this with a further £11 million of deals in January – and all at a time when everywhere else the talk was of doom and gloom.
What’s even more interesting is that these deals covered a wide range of properties, from an ultra-exclusive £5 million plus luxury home in St George’s Hill, Weybridge to competing offers for a modest apartment Gascoigne Billinghurst had had on their books for some time.
But it didn’t matter what the
multi-million pound bracket – it is the uniqueness of this corner of Surrey combined with the expertise and quality of service that Gascoigne Billinghurst offer that makes the difference.
Stuart’s view of the market is clear: “I’ve been saying for some time now that the market here is robust, and this proves it.”
Looking back to their success before Christmas, Stuart said: “David Creffield, of our Cobham office, took on an apartment on Monday, December 10 and, by Friday the 15th, we had a sale agreed and solicitors were instructed. Three days later, I walked into the office to be greeted by three offers, two on an apartment which we have had on the market for quite some time and in which we have some renewed interest and the other for a large detached home priced in the late £700,000s.”
And that was just a day after Stuart and his team exchanged
http://www.beauchamp.co.uk/
RESIDENTIAL ESTATE AGENCY UNLIKE MANY OTHER PROFESSIONS ATTRACTS A LARGE NUMBER OF WOMEN AND HERE AT BEAUCHAMP ESTATES WE ARE DELIGHTED TO INTRODUCE OUR WONDERFUL TEAM WHOSE DEDICATION AND
CHEERFULNESS KEEP THE BEAUCHAMP BOYS ON THEIR TOES!
THE
BEAUCHAMP BELLES!
Catherine Hopkins BA (Hons)
Catherine’s role as secretary to Penelope Court and marketing co-ordinator is one that combines many different skills. Catherine’s years of experience in marketing, research and assisting teams at all levels within the property industry combined with her cool efficiency, friendliness and integrity make her a delight to work with.
Heidi Cook
Heidi, with her varied and interesting background, has brought her many years of valuable experience to her role as secretary to Gary Hersham. Fluent in both French and Italian, her friendly and professional attitude and good nature has made her a valuable asset to the company. Having always wanted to work in the property market, she is enjoying life in her busy and challenging position here at Beauchamp Estates.
Carly Kershaw
Carly with her many years of experience as office manager and receptionist is now bringing her skills to the task of front of house receptionist in our Curzon Street office. Warm and friendly, she makes everyone feel welcome and at ease both on the telephone and during their visit to the office. Efficient and keen, she is willing to help with any task, always with a smile.
Svetlana Shcholokova BA
Svetlana, with her background in finance, born in the Ukraine and with Russian as her first language is now running our Russian desk. Specialising in rentals she excels in this demanding and exciting area of estate agency. Her drive and ambition are proving invaluable in dealing with our international clientele.
8
Why should fashion be consigned to the catwalk?
With Miele die Küche, creativity doesn’t start and end in the kitchen. The versatility of simple, elegant design can spill out into every corner of your home. Choose from our range of inspiring high-gloss, laminate and wood veneer designs and relax in the knowledge that each piece has been crafted and built by one of Germany’s leading manufacturers.
Now available at Homewood & Butler Call 01932 247818 or email homewoodbutler@aol.com
Homewood & Butler, 10 High Street, Walton-on-Thames, Surrey, KT12 1DG
Grosvenor Square, W1
Potentially the finest Accommodation:
Superb entrance hall, double aspect drawing room, formal dining room, family room, kitchen/breakfast room, guest cloakroom, utility room, master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, 2 bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, 1 further bedroom with en-suite shower room, staff bedroom, staff bathroom, terrace.
Magnificent first floor in Grosvenor Square with 7 windows directly overlooking the gardens, it occupies some 3,819 sq ft. Although now in need of renovation this grand first floor apartment with its high ceilings, impressive entrance hall, 44 ft drawing room and dining room is ideal for entertaining. The terrace is directly off the family room and 3 of the 4 main bedroom suites directly over look the square gardens.
Offers in excess of £12,950,000
12 residential sales.
Grosvenor Square, W1
Potentially the finest Accommodation:
Superb entrance hall, double aspect drawing room, formal dining room, family room, kitchen/breakfast room, guest cloakroom, utility room, master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, 2 bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, 1 further bedroom with en-suite shower room, staff bedroom, staff bathroom, terrace.
Magnificent first floor in Grosvenor Square with 7 windows directly overlooking the gardens, it occupies some 3,819 sq ft. Although now in need of renovation this grand first floor apartment with its high ceilings, impressive entrance hall, 44 ft drawing room and dining room is ideal for entertaining. The terrace is directly off the family room and 3 of the 4 main bedroom suites directly over look the square gardens.
Price on Application
12 residential sales.
24 Curzon Street, London W1J 7TF 020 7499 7722 http://www.beauchamp.co.uk/
13apartment in Grosvenor Square Joint Sole Agents: Carter Jonas 127 Mount Street, London W1K 3NT Tel: 020 7493 0676 Frognal Lane, London NW3
A mini estate in the heart of Hampstead Village St Johns Wood, London NW8 020 7722 9793 http://www.beauchamp.co.uk/
The conjoining of Manor Lodge and 38 Frognal Lane presents a unique opportunity for a private gated complex in the middle of Hampstead Village with the benefit of 2 separate luxury dwellings, garage with staff annexe and off-street parking for 6+ cars. The site extends to approximately
0.44 of an acre and was formerly the home of the highly acclaimed British actress, Dame Peggy Ashcroft.
Offers in excess of £20,000,000 Freehold
Accommodation:
5 reception rooms, study, 2 kitchens, 1 guest cloakroom, master bedroom with en-suite bathroom and dressing room, 3 further bedrooms (1 en-suite), 3 further bathrooms, 1 further dressing room, separate staff annexe with garage for 2 cars, extensive private parking, garden.
14 residential sales.
INTERVIEW .
and property valuers.
are entering, the factors needed to achieve
“
who is non-domiciled but has a UK taxable income may seek advice – though I would stress that we never, ever offer tax advice or indeed advice in any areas in which we are not qualified. What we can do, however, is to point people in the right direction to obtain that expertise.’ A non-domiciled client often acquires property in a limited liability offshore company, typically supported by a holding structure, which exists for tax-efficient purposes.
The company can steer the client through the minefield of questions he will ask regarding the wisdom of the planned acquisition; in whose name the property should be acquired and so forth. ‘Obviously, it’s an attractive proposition to acquire UK property through an offshore company, says Wayne Coleman. ‘But it’s a fast-moving market and we have an A-Z of knowledge of each situation we are involved with which is assessed on its individual merits: again this saves the bank time and it can come to a rapid conclusion, in the full knowledge that we provide them with accurate, detailed information.’
As the company offers a bespoke service and is in a position of confidentiality and trust dealing with extremely high profile individuals, the level of discretion can be imagined and the intricate knowledge of clients’ financial affairs is an essential part of Coleman’s ability to offer a service at the superlative level he does. This, combined with a deep knowledge of what respective banks will and will not accept, enables the company to move very fast indeed in situations that frequently require a conclusive and immediate outcome in a highly competitive market place.
As Wayne Coleman remarks, ‘These things don’t just happen, they happen because we have the means to make decisions swiftly, to provide information, liase with lawyers, keep everyone abreast with what is taking place and clear the path to a successful conclusion.’ It is perhaps this ability to match like with like, to know how to make that match, that above all is beyond price. .
It’s for this added value that clients trust
and respect the service offered by Coleman,
aware that he can eliminate unnecessary 170 Brompton Road, Knightsbridge,
...it’s a fast-moving market and we
and confusing entanglements within deals London SW3 1HW and make them happen fast – a matter of “ T +44 (0)20 7581 8121
have an A-Z of knowledge of each
days in some circumstances. There are good F +44 (0)20 7823 7153
situation we are involved with...
When we approach a bank on our client’s
“
behalf, that bank responds on the back of its known relationship with us, as do lawyers
eighteen years’ experience. He takes the same approach on offshore finance advice.
‘While people observe other uncertainties in the market, an offshore finance deal can seem very attractive to non UK nationals in the acquisition of property in this country. But again there are a number of considerations. A client
MAGIC MAKER
Sandy Byrne Talks to Wayne Coleman of Bespoke Finance Brokers W. Coleman & Co
In Wayne Coleman’s estimation there is incalculable value in relationships of trust built between client and advisors in business, and nowhere more so than in his own field of bespoke financial brokering within the property market.
Your particular engagement with Coleman is part of a small and exclusive community, but it is one that is durable: it lasts for life. His company, W. Coleman & Co, offering private and structured property finance services, nurtures exceptionally highly developed relationships with others in business so that he is able to put deals for financial loans through in a rapid period of time, bypassing all the many and complex hurdles over which prospective borrowers would need to jump without experienced assistance. As Coleman observes: ‘When we approach a bank on our client’s behalf, that bank responds on the back of its known relationship with us, as do lawyers and property valuers.’
client is a very high net worth individual with, typically, funds in excess of £10 million, and these are fast-moving people used to making things happen. In fact the vast majority of the people for whom Wayne Coleman acts have very substantial funds at their disposal.
Operating from his discreet Knightsbridge office, Coleman has brokered some of the most successful property acquisition loans in recent years. These are not, obviously, the kind of conventional mortgages that can be obtained by visiting a high street company and nor is the client who knocks at Mr. Coleman’s door the average mortgage seeker. Reasons for working with him are many and complex, and unrelated to lack of funds. The main point being, as he observes, ‘We will ensure expectations are met and that people know what it is they
finance and that the right bank for their needs is approached.’
Such clients are aware they are coming to the right place. Mr. Coleman raises loans in the region, typically, of £2 million and the biggest to date was some £35 million on a single home. ‘For us to do this it’s essential we know every detail of each unique situation, all its component parts. It’s our job to ensure work is going on behind the scenes, so by the time we make our pitch there is no time wasting and a deal can be closed fast.’
In particular he observes of the short lease market, ‘There are certain risks in the acquisition of short leases of which we are aware and can offer expert advice. Many clients approaching us for assistance have little or no understanding of what these risks comprise, particularly in the light of changes brought about by the Leasehold Reform Act which means more people can obtain short leases on the basis that they can be extended.’
But this, while advantageous, carries its own pitfalls and can be a lengthy process to undertake, which is where the expertise offered by Wayne Coleman can prove invaluable. ‘The client may come to us aware of his right to make the acquisition, but choosing to use finance to close the deal. We are able to make a presentation to the bank that they can assess rapidly, based on current market value of the property, and its anticipated value as a depreciating asset as the lease progresses: the bank will need the level of debt ratio not to exceed a certain amount. Our job is to examine and inspect every detail so a rapid decision is reached. Everything can depend on the nature of the presentation at the outset. A lot takes place at the eleventh hour and an offer can be made within a week – an offer that can be drawn down immediately.’
And this is where much of Wayne Coleman’s clout is invisible, based as it is on the careful development of excellent relationships based on trust and some
reasons for wishing to acquire high value
property assisted by the highly specialised services of a finance broker, even when the
“
E wpc@w-coleman.com
http://www.w-coleman.com/
Opposite Richmond Park
Period detail and modern luxury unite Brand new detached home of approximately 9,000 sq ft in a private road location opposite Richmond Park. Magnificent attention to detail, large leisure suite with indoor pool having natural light from amazing feature glazed ceiling.
£6,250,000
Accommodation:
Modern home in period style with contemporary finish, double height entrance hall, 3 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, cloakroom, indoor swimming pool complex with sauna, wine cellar, master bedroom with en-suite plus 5 further bedrooms all with en-suite.
8 High Street, Cobham Surrey. KT11 3DY 01932 588 288 http://www.gascoignes.co.uk/
16 residential sales.
Esher Fireplaces
Complete Design, Supply & Installation Service
Showroom: 3-5 Church Street, Esher, Surrey KT10 8QS Tel: 01372 810 888 http://www.esherfireplaces.co.uk/
Cobham
Gated Private Estate Mayflower
Developments
3 brand new homes currently under construction by Mayflower Developments, situated in a quiet close on the prestigious Oxshott Way Estate. These houses are due for completion in June 2008.
Prices from £2,950,000
Accommodation:
Detached homes ranging from 5,755 sq ft to 7,685 sq ft. Entrance hall, 6 bedrooms, 4/5 reception rooms, 5 bathrooms, large games/cinema room, audio visual systems, security systems, landscaped gardens.
8 High Street, Cobham Surrey. KT11 3DY 01932 588 288 http://www.gascoignes.co.uk/
18 residential sales.
¦Home Automation ¦Lighting Control ¦Home Cinema ¦Multi-Room Audio ¦Visual Displays ¦Data/Voice Communications ¦Security The Studio, Hooks Corner, Old Common Road, Cobham, Surrey KT11 1JP Tel: 08703 5000 68 ¦Fax: 08703 5000 69 Email: info@futuresystems.co.uk http://www.futuresystems.co.uk/ TECHNOLOGY MADE SIMPLE ¦Home Automation ¦Lighting Control ¦Home Cinema ¦Multi-Room Audio ¦Visual Displays ¦Data/Voice Communications ¦Security The Studio, Hooks Corner, Old Common Road, Cobham, Surrey KT11 1JP Tel: 08703 5000 68 ¦Fax: 08703 5000 69 Email: info@futuresystems.co.uk http://www.futuresystems.co.uk/ TECHNOLOGY MADE SIMPLE Accommodation: Traditionally constructed detached home over 3 floors, high ceilings, oversized internal doors, under floor heating, multi room audio and video system, bespoke kitchen, top quality appliances, CCTV with internet facility, hotel type safes, stylish bathroom fittings, landscaped gardens, block paved driveway, NHBC and 10 year build warranty. This magnificent extended home on a half acre west facing plot has been refurbished to a superb standard. The generous accommodation flows extremely well providing fantastic formal areas as well as easy family living space. A large kitchen/breakfast room opens through to the spacious family room at the rear of the house with 4 sets of doors opening to the rear garden. This beautiful detached home is to be built in the Fairmile area of Cobham and is due for completion early 2009. The spacious accommodation will consist of large entrance hall, huge kitchen/breakfast/family room, dining room triple aspect drawing room, study and utility/boot room. There are 6 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms plus staff suite. Cobham Price on Application Cobham £2,500,000 Accommodation: Situated towards the end of this popular private road, this splendid home has a large entrance hall with galleried landing, wide staircase, drawing room, open plan to the reading room, dining room, study, cloakroom, kitchen/breakfast room, TV/family room, utility room and double garage. There are 5 bedrooms with en-suite facilities. 8 High Street, Cobham Surrey. KT11 3DY 01932 588 288 http://www.gascoignes.co.uk/ 20 residential sales. Accommodation: Traditionally constructed detached home over 3 floors, high ceilings, oversized internal doors, under floor heating, multi room audio and video system, bespoke kitchen, top quality appliances, CCTV with internet facility, hotel type safes, stylish bathroom fittings, landscaped gardens, block paved driveway, NHBC and 10 year build warranty. This magnificent extended home on a half acre west facing plot has been refurbished to a superb standard. The generous accommodation flows extremely well providing fantastic formal areas as well as easy family living space. A large kitchen/breakfast room opens through to the spacious family room at the rear of the house with 4 sets of doors opening to the rear garden. This beautiful detached home is to be built in the Fairmile area of Cobham and is due for completion early 2009. The spacious accommodation will consist of large entrance hall, huge kitchen/breakfast/family room, dining room triple aspect drawing room, study and utility/boot room. There are 6 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms plus staff suite. Cobham Price on Application Cobham £2,500,000 Accommodation: Situated towards the end of this popular private road, this splendid home has a large entrance hall with galleried landing, wide staircase, drawing room, open plan to the reading room, dining room, study, cloakroom, kitchen/breakfast room, TV/family room, utility room and double garage. There are 5 bedrooms with en-suite facilities. 8 High Street, Cobham Surrey. KT11 3DY 01932 588 288 http://www.gascoignes.co.uk/ 20 residential sales. St Georges Hill, Weybridge
Guide Price £10,000,000
Super luxury residence of approaching 12,000 sq ft including an immense master bedroom suite of approximately 1,000 sq.ft. and 5 further bedroom suites. Feature circular staircase. South facing gardens of over 1 acre with stunning views over golf course. Building completion estimated Spring 2010, subject to finalisation of planning permissions.
22 residential sales.
238 High Street, Cobham Surrey. KT11 3DY 01932 588 288 http://www.gascoignes.co.uk/ This is a home likely to redefine the specifications of luxury living in Surrey and represents a bespoke design on behalf of Consero Homes. Atop a sylvan setting in the centre of this ultra exclusive and private residential location the aptly named “Treetops” enjoys a superb setting, while features such as geothermal heating and air-conditioning, a swimming pool that straddles inside/outside environments with an infinity feature, staff accommodation, and a stunning circular staircase, all combine to deliver 21st century living at its zenith. Stunning views across golf course 238 High Street, Cobham Surrey. KT11 3DY 01932 588 288 http://www.gascoignes.co.uk/ This is a home likely to redefine the specifications of luxury living in Surrey and represents a bespoke design on behalf of Consero Homes. Atop a sylvan setting in the centre of this ultra exclusive and private residential location the aptly named “Treetops” enjoys a superb setting, while features such as geothermal heating and air-conditioning, a swimming pool that straddles inside/outside environments with an infinity feature, staff accommodation, and a stunning circular staircase, all combine to deliver 21st century living at its zenith. Stunning views across golf course Accommodation: 1 acre plot, south facing gardens, 3 storey accommodation, 3 metre ceiling heights, indoor swimming pool complex and gymnasium, NHBC, 6 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, double height entrance hall, underfloor heating throughout, hi-tech entertainment system, concrete flooring on all levels, his and hers dressing room to master bedroom, triple garage with accommodation over. This magnificent 3/4 acre plot faces in a south/south east direction, is partially tree lined and planning permission exists for an 8,000 sq ft home to be built by the renowned local developer, Allos Developments. The property is situated in the heart of this private road in one of the most sought-after locations in Cobham Situated in one of Surrey's most sought after private roads, standing in a plot of approximately 1 acre with a south facing rear garden, this fabulous home with indoor swimming pool complex and gymnasium is now available to purchase off-plan. Cobham £4,600,000 Oxshott £5,500,000 Accommodation: A fabulous 3/4 acre site, south/south east facing rear garden, planning permission exists for an 8,000 sq ft home, underfloor heating throughout, concrete flooring to all levels, audio visual systems, Miele appliances, granite kitchen worktops, integrated wine fridge, security systems, keyless entry systems, air conditioning, NHBC, luxuriously appointed kitchen and bathrooms. 8 High Street, Cobham Surrey. KT11 3DY 01932 860030 http://www.gascoignes.co.uk/ 24 residential sales. Accommodation: 1 acre plot, south facing gardens, 3 storey accommodation, 3 metre ceiling heights, indoor swimming pool complex and gymnasium, NHBC, 6 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, double height entrance hall, underfloor heating throughout, hi-tech entertainment system, concrete flooring on all levels, his and hers dressing room to master bedroom, triple garage with accommodation over. This magnificent 3/4 acre plot faces in a south/south east direction, is partially tree lined and planning permission exists for an 8,000 sq ft home to be built by the renowned local developer, Allos Developments. The property is situated in the heart of this private road in one of the most sought-after locations in Cobham Situated in one of Surrey's most sought after private roads, standing in a plot of approximately 1 acre with a south facing rear garden, this fabulous home with indoor swimming pool complex and gymnasium is now available to purchase off-plan. Cobham £4,600,000 Oxshott £5,500,000 Accommodation: A fabulous 3/4 acre site, south/south east facing rear garden, planning permission exists for an 8,000 sq ft home, underfloor heating throughout, concrete flooring to all levels, audio visual systems, Miele appliances, granite kitchen worktops, integrated wine fridge, security systems, keyless entry systems, air conditioning, NHBC, luxuriously appointed kitchen and bathrooms. 8 High Street, Cobham Surrey. KT11 3DY 01932 860030 http://www.gascoignes.co.uk/ 24 residential sales. Ease of use is key at Oliver James.
We’re not interested in installing complex systems that are impossible to operate. All of our systems can be easily operated by remote control or touch-screen.
You will be well looked after throughout the whole process of installing your home electronic system, from the very first enquiry you make with us, throughout the design process, to the completion of your installation. In fact, we won’t leave your property until we’ve demonstrated your newly-installed system and made sure you’re completely confident using it.
Visit our showroom at:
247 Kings Road, Chelsea, London, SW3 5EL
T: 020 7349 8970 E: info@oliverjames.uk.com W: oliverjames.uk.com FLAT PANEL SCREENS •HOME CINEMA •AUDIO VIDEO DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM •HOME AUTOMATION
Mayflower
Developments
We build stylish homes
They come in different styles, shapes and sizes but they are all well-designed, well built and well finished. We have houses for sale in Surrey and Dorset and we can design and build to your own specification. We pay attention to kitchens, bathrooms, stairs, lighting, audio/visual technology and security so that each of our houses is unique and designed to be proud of for many years to come.
For more details, please look at our website. To discuss selling us land, buying a house or asking us to help you create the home of your dreams, call us on 0208 614 3670 or email sales@mayflowerhomes.co.uk
mayflowerhomes.co.uk
oring studioVICTORIAN WOODWORKS CONTRACTSthe flooring studio VICTORIAN WOODWORKS CONTRACTS oring studioVICTORIAN WOODWORKS CONTRACTSthe flooring studio VICTORIAN WOODWORKS CONTRACTS Upper Brook Street, W1
£10,000,000 Leasehold
24 Curzon Street, London W1J 7TF 121 years at £36,000 a year with reviews every 5 years to 10% of the rack rental value of the property
020 7499 7722 http://www.beauchamp.co.uk/
Accommodation: The main office building is planned on basement, ground and 4 upper floors, with an additional 2 storey rear extension at 1st and 2nd floor level built over the interconnecting courtyard area. The entire building excluding the residential flat comprises some 7,380 sq ft gross internal with a net lettable area of some 4,854 sq ft to exclude the garage. Mayfair office building with mews An important long leasehold Mayfair self-contained office building with an interconnecting adjoining rear mews house providing a 2/3 car garage and a reversionary 3 bedroom apartment on the first and second floor. 28 residential sales.
A fabulous family home with the rare benefit of direct access to a 4 acre communal garden (voted the best in London in 2007). Clifton Gardens, W9 £9,950,000 Freehold Classic Clifton Gardens Accommodation: This 6,330 sq ft house has 9 bedrooms, 7 bathrooms (4 en-suite), family kitchen and breakfast room, and 2 further staff/guest kitchens. Formal dining room, drawing room, library, family room and gym with adjacent terrace. Lift and off-street parking for 2 cars. Staff/guest accommodation is self-contained. St Johns Wood, London NW8 020 7722 9793 http://www.beauchamp.co.uk/ A fabulous family home with the rare benefit of direct access to a 4 acre communal garden (voted the best in London in 2007). Clifton Gardens, W9 £9,950,000 Freehold Classic Clifton Gardens Accommodation: This 6,330 sq ft house has 9 bedrooms, 7 bathrooms (4 en-suite), family kitchen and breakfast room, and 2 further staff/guest kitchens. Formal dining room, drawing room, library, family room and gym with adjacent terrace. Lift and off-street parking for 2 cars. Staff/guest accommodation is self-contained. St Johns Wood, London NW8 020 7722 9793 http://www.beauchamp.co.uk/ 30 residential sales.
YOUR UNIQUE FACIAL SPA
020 8546 4460
CLOISTERS MALL • KINGSTON UPON THAMES • KT1 1RS
http://www.face-place.co.uk/
Accommodation:
Entrance Hall, guest cloak/shower room, kitchen/breakfast room, utility room, reception room, conservatory, master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, dressing room/study, 2 further bedrooms, guest bathroom, roof terrace, secure underground parking space.
Situated in the heart of Mayfair, this 3 bedroom lateral penthouse extends to some 2,500 sq ft and offers stunning views of the central London skyline. On the 5th floor of this portered building, this contemporary apartment benefits from the latest technology together with an impressive entertaining area, a bespoke conservatory and decked terrace. There is also a secure private underground parking space.
32 residential sales.
33Clarges Street, W1 £5,750,000 Leasehold 24 Curzon Street, London W1J 7TF 020 7499 7722 http://www.beauchamp.co.uk/ Impressive Mayfair Penthouse 33Clarges Street, W1 £5,750,000 Leasehold 24 Curzon Street, London W1J 7TF 020 7499 7722 http://www.beauchamp.co.uk/ Impressive Mayfair Penthouse Accommodation: New detached home, 4 reception rooms, 5 bedrooms, 5 en-suites, kitchen/breakfast/family room, cloakroom, utility room, large second floor gym/playroom/games room, comfort cooling, underfloor heating, intelligent style lighting, wired for media system. A luxurious traditionally built 5 bedroom, 4 bathroom family home, thoughtfully designed over 3 floors with a heated swimming pool in the rear garden completing this spacious, highly specified new home located in the prestigious Fairmile area. This brnad new home is to be set on a magnificent south east facing plot and backing onto woodland. This property, whilst being in a superb location within the village of Cobham provides easy access to the stations at both Oxshott and Cobham/Stoke d’Abernon and has an almost rural feel. Cobham £2,500,000 Cobham £2,850,000 Accommodation: BRAND NEW DETACHED HOME, 5,085 sq ft, 5 bedrooms, 4 reception rooms, 5 bathrooms, double garage, media room, swimming pool, gardens. 8 High Street, Cobham Surrey. KT11 3DY 01932 588 288 http://www.gascoignes.co.uk/ 34 residential sales. Example bathroom from another Consero home Accommodation: New detached home, 4 reception rooms, 5 bedrooms, 5 en-suites, kitchen/breakfast/family room, cloakroom, utility room, large second floor gym/playroom/games room, comfort cooling, underfloor heating, intelligent style lighting, wired for media system. A luxurious traditionally built 5 bedroom, 4 bathroom family home, thoughtfully designed over 3 floors with a heated swimming pool in the rear garden completing this spacious, highly specified new home located in the prestigious Fairmile area. This brnad new home is to be set on a magnificent south east facing plot and backing onto woodland. This property, whilst being in a superb location within the village of Cobham provides easy access to the stations at both Oxshott and Cobham/Stoke d’Abernon and has an almost rural feel. Cobham £2,500,000 Cobham £2,850,000 Accommodation: BRAND NEW DETACHED HOME, 5,085 sq ft, 5 bedrooms, 4 reception rooms, 5 bathrooms, double garage, media room, swimming pool, gardens. 8 High Street, Cobham Surrey. KT11 3DY 01932 588 288 http://www.gascoignes.co.uk/ 34 residential sales. Example bathroom from another Consero home COMING SOON! The accommodation will extend to around 4,000 sq ft and is arranged over four floors. It has a particularly large plot which is south facing and the whole site area extends to just under 1/4 of an acre. Beaconsfield Road has a reputation for being one of Claygate’s most sought after roads and comprises homes of a good calibre, mainly detached and of a larger size. Interior photograph shows recent Carrington Fox Development. Claygate Price on Application A brand new detached Edwardian style homeAccommodation: Spacious entrance hall, study, large kitchen/dining room, utility room, cloakroom, garage, drawing room, 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, games room/bedroom 6, state of the art internal audio visual system with iPod docking, large south facing rear garden. Clive House, 2 The Parade Claygate, Surrey, KT10 0NU 01372 462323 http://www.gascoignes.co.uk/ Clive House, 2 The Parade Claygate, Surrey, KT10 0NU 01372 462323 http://www.gascoignes.co.uk/ residential sales. 35
Half Moon Street, W1
£6,300,000 Freehold
24 Curzon Street, London W1J 7TF 020 7499 7722 http://www.beauchamp.co.uk/
Wonderful Investment Opportunity A rare opportunity to purchase an attractive period freehold block of flats, of some 3,500 sq ft, in the heart of Mayfair consisting of one two-bedroom maisonette, one 2-bedroom flat and three 1-bedroom flats. The block is ideally located for Green Park and all the amenities Mayfair offers.
Joint Sole Agents: Carter Jonas 127 Mount Street, London W1K 3NT Tel: 020 7493 0676
38 residential sales.
bpc tax limited SPECIALISTS IN CORPORATE, VAT AND PERSONAL TAX FOR: Commercial and Residential Property Developers Luxury Yacht and Aircraft Ownership Tax Residency in Switzerland and Ireland Inheritance Tax and the Family Home Residence and Non-Domicile issues CONTACT: Ed Jakeway 07771 611402 ejakeway@btinternet.com Steve Long 07976 886567 bpctaxltd@aol.com http://www.bpctax.co.uk/ 26 Grosvenor Street, Mayfair, London, W1K 4QW Tel: +44(0) 20 7355 3525 bpc tax limited SPECIALISTS IN CORPORATE, VAT AND PERSONAL TAX FOR: Commercial and Residential Property Developers Luxury Yacht and Aircraft Ownership Tax Residency in Switzerland and Ireland Inheritance Tax and the Family Home Residence and Non-Domicile issues CONTACT: Ed Jakeway 07771 611402 ejakeway@btinternet.com Steve Long 07976 886567 bpctaxltd@aol.com http://www.bpctax.co.uk/ 26 Grosvenor Street, Mayfair, London, W1K 4QW Tel: +44(0) 20 7355 3525 The Courtyard at Balaton Place,
Newmarket, Suffolk
24 Curzon Street, London W1J 7TF 020 7499 7722
£7,000,000
http://www.beauchamp.co.uk/
Located approximately 1 mile from Newmarket Town Centre and set in the heart of the exquisite Balaton Place development, The Courtyard at Balaton Place is approached along a gated, cobbled road, lined with specimen trees. The Courtyard is designed for entertaining on a grand scale whilst retaining the intimacy of a spacious family home. The property benefits from exquisite views over its tiered Italianate courtyard garden which, together with the privately gated ‘outer’ courtyard, provides a unique sense of peace, privacy and security. Accommodation: The property benefits from extensive, flexible accommodation with lovely reception rooms and 8-10 bedrooms, including those in a separate, though integrated, 3 bedroom guest house. There is an office wing, a 6 car garage, and a 2 bedroom staff lodge. Amenities include a beautiful indoor pool, spa and steam room, gym, dedicated cinema with a 112” screen, Lutron Homeworks lighting control, Systemline Soundserver and a wonderful fibre-optic lighting installation that brings the courtyard to life after dark. A unique oasis of peace and tranquillity within approximately 1 ½ hours of London 40 residential sales.
8 High Street, Cobham Surrey. KT11 3DY 01932 588 288 http://www.gascoignes.co.uk/ 8 High Street, Cobham Surrey. KT11 3DY 01932 588 288 http://www.gascoignes.co.uk/ 41
Accommodation: Hall, sitting room, dining room, kitchen, utility room, cloakroom, 4 bedrooms, family bathroom, separate WC, rear garden 103 ft x 59 ft, off-street parking for 2 cars. A 1930’s detached family home, benefiting from close proximity to shops and station. The property is in a highly regarded and sought after location. The property benefits from a rear garden of a very good size and backs south making this, an already spacious house, feel even more light and airy. Built in the 1930’s, this 4 bedroom detached family home requires some modernisation and updating, but overall offers buyers good accommodation in a good location and a fantastic garden. Hinchley Wood’s shops, station and schools are all within walking distance. Hinchley Wood £850,000 Hinchley Wood £620,000 Accommodation: Entrance hall, lounge, dining room, kitchen, utility room, cloakroom, 5 bedrooms, large family bathroom, separate WC, south facing rear garden, off-street parking, integral garage. 32 Station Approach, Hinchley Wood, Surrey, KT10 0SR 0208 398 0265 http://www.gascoignes.co.uk/ 42 residential sales. Accommodation: Hall, sitting room, dining room, kitchen, utility room, cloakroom, 4 bedrooms, family bathroom, separate WC, rear garden 103 ft x 59 ft, off-street parking for 2 cars. A 1930’s detached family home, benefiting from close proximity to shops and station. The property is in a highly regarded and sought after location. The property benefits from a rear garden of a very good size and backs south making this, an already spacious house, feel even more light and airy. Built in the 1930’s, this 4 bedroom detached family home requires some modernisation and updating, but overall offers buyers good accommodation in a good location and a fantastic garden. Hinchley Wood’s shops, station and schools are all within walking distance. Hinchley Wood £850,000 Hinchley Wood £620,000 Accommodation: Entrance hall, lounge, dining room, kitchen, utility room, cloakroom, 5 bedrooms, large family bathroom, separate WC, south facing rear garden, off-street parking, integral garage. 32 Station Approach, Hinchley Wood, Surrey, KT10 0SR 0208 398 0265 http://www.gascoignes.co.uk/ 42 residential sales. Quality Service Style Value Quality Service Style Value Kitchenworks
Personal Design Service & Full Installation
Call your personal designer now: 07804 175 777
Quality kitchens Hundreds of styles Unbeatable value Complete projects Personal service
K i t c h e n s & G r a n i t e -S u p p l i e d & I n s t a l l e d C o v e r i n g L o n d o n -S u r r e y -H a m p s h i r e
“For the finest Italian dining experience, in the most picturesque of settings. Perfect for that romantic dinner for two, a family celebration or business entertainment”. “La Capanna must boast the prettiest interior of any restaurant I have ever dined in.” David Billington, Hello Magazine Lunch Menu two courses £16.95 La Capanna special menu two courses £28.95 3 course Sunday lunch only £22.95 Children’s menu £12.00 La Capanna is open everyday for lunch and dinner Private car park 48 High Street, Cobham, Surrey Tel: 01932 862121 See our menus, wine list and book your table online on our website http://www.lacapanna.co.uk/ Party bookings and business account customers are welcome. Fully air conditioned Dine Al Fresco in our Italian gardens Wonderful venue for your Wedding All bills are subject to a 12.5% service charge. All major credit cards accepted. Cheques are accepted up to value of valid Cheque Guarantee Card. La Capanna Accommodation: Entrance hall, open plan sitting room/dining room/conservatory, modern kitchen/breakfast room, 2 double bedrooms and a further good size single, recently refitted bathroom, off-street parking and single garage to front, extremely large and attractive rear garden backing Littleworth Common. A handsome Edwardian semi-detached period property towards the end of a sought-after no through road. Extended by the present owners and there is off-road parking available to the front of the property. Built towards the end of the 1930's this 3 bedroom detached family home has been sympathetically refurbished in recent years and offers generous accommodation over 2 storeys. Convenient for shops, good schools and railway station which are all within walking distance. Another benefit is an astonishingly large rear garden backing onto woodland Claygate £655,000 Esher £659,950 Accommodation: Entrance hall, 2 formal reception rooms, kitchen, breakfast/dining room, cloakroom, 4 bedrooms, family bathroom, rear garden extending to 70ft. 44 residential sales. 32 Station Approach, Hinchley Wood, Surrey, KT10 0SR 0208 398 0265 http://www.gascoignes.co.uk/ Clive House, 2 The Parade Claygate, Surrey, KT10 0NU 01372 462323 http://www.gascoignes.co.uk/ Accommodation: Entrance hall, open plan sitting room/dining room/conservatory, modern kitchen/breakfast room, 2 double bedrooms and a further good size single, recently refitted bathroom, off-street parking and single garage to front, extremely large and attractive rear garden backing Littleworth Common. A handsome Edwardian semi-detached period property towards the end of a sought-after no through road. Extended by the present owners and there is off-road parking available to the front of the property. Built towards the end of the 1930's this 3 bedroom detached family home has been sympathetically refurbished in recent years and offers generous accommodation over 2 storeys. Convenient for shops, good schools and railway station which are all within walking distance. Another benefit is an astonishingly large rear garden backing onto woodland Claygate £655,000 Esher £659,950 Accommodation: Entrance hall, 2 formal reception rooms, kitchen, breakfast/dining room, cloakroom, 4 bedrooms, family bathroom, rear garden extending to 70ft. 44 residential sales. 32 Station Approach, Hinchley Wood, Surrey, KT10 0SR 0208 398 0265 http://www.gascoignes.co.uk/ Clive House, 2 The Parade Claygate, Surrey, KT10 0NU 01372 462323 http://www.gascoignes.co.uk/ Visit our showrooms to view over 60 new displays Open Mon-Sat 9am-5pm Or shop online at: http://www.waltonbathrooms.co.uk/ Walton Bathrooms, The Hersham Centre, Molesey Road, Hersham, Surrey KT12 4HL Tel: 01932 224784 Fax: 01932 253447 Professional Planning Creative Concepts Expert Installation 6 Year Installation Warranty with the IBSA scheme Visit our showrooms to view over 60 new displays Open Mon-Sat 9am-5pm Or shop online at: http://www.waltonbathrooms.co.uk/ Walton Bathrooms, The Hersham Centre, Molesey Road, Hersham, Surrey KT12 4HL Tel: 01932 224784 Fax: 01932 253447 Professional Planning Creative Concepts Expert Installation 6 Year Installation Warranty with the IBSA scheme Accommodation: Entrance hall, drawing room, dining room, family room, maid’s room with en-suite bathroom, breakfast room, study area, kitchen, utility room, master bedroom with en-suite dressing room and en-suite bathroom, bedroom 2 and 3 share access to en-suite bathroom, 2 further bedrooms, 2 further bathrooms, guest cloakroom. Belgravia Elegance A bright and attractively presented, stucco fronted, family house now in need of some renovation. The house is constructed over ground, lower ground and 4 upper floors and benefits from a terrace. 24 Curzon Street, London W1J 7TF 020 7499 7722 http://www.beauchamp.co.uk/ Accommodation: Entrance hall, drawing room, dining room, family room, maid’s room with en-suite bathroom, breakfast room, study area, kitchen, utility room, master bedroom with en-suite dressing room and en-suite bathroom, bedroom 2 and 3 share access to en-suite bathroom, 2 further bedrooms, 2 further bathrooms, guest cloakroom. Belgravia Elegance A bright and attractively presented, stucco fronted, family house now in need of some renovation. The house is constructed over ground, lower ground and 4 upper floors and benefits from a terrace. 24 Curzon Street, London W1J 7TF 020 7499 7722 http://www.beauchamp.co.uk/ Eaton Terrace, SW1
£4,950,000 Freehold
46 residential sales.
........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 50 summer collection
LEFT: Eva Herzigova, by Karl Lagerfeld for Dom Perignon
OOver 15,000 bottles of champagne will be consumed at this year’s Derby Festival, assuming, that is, that the punters as well as the horses are on form. But you can also bet that more of those bottles will be of champagne rosé than in any previous year. That’s not to say that the ordinary champagne brut is going out of style. It’s just that pink fizz has never been more popular.
Think champagne rosé and you probably think frivolous, girly. Not, at any rate, a very serious wine. Not really a drink for grown-ups. And certainly not one for serious, grown-up, red-blooded men. Can you imagine James Bond growling down the phone to room service for a bottle of bubbly rosé? Next thing you know he’d be rolling over to resume his lovemaking not with Pussy Galore but with some floppy-fringed catamite from Q Branch.
Well, think again. The best champagne rosé is thrillingly good. Wine buffs have known this for ages, but it’s only quite recently that the rest
of us have started to catch up. A sure sign that the worm had turned came last year when Dom Pérignon decided to throw huge amounts of money at a ravishingly sexy ad campaign for its exceptional 1996 rosé. In Karl Lagerfeld’s photographs, Eva Herzigova cavorts in a suite at the Hotel George V in Paris, struggling bravely to keep her breasts inside her dress while quaffing £250 bottles of vintage rosé as though it were Evian. Herzigova is not merely pretty in pink but actually showing some pink in one or two of the shots. It’s a selfconsciously silly, pasteltoned, soft-porn fantasy – and none the worse for it. The aphrodisiac qualities of rosé may not yet have been scientifically demonstrated, but if a campaign like that one won’t shift a few units, heaven knows what will.
Rosé at the top end of the market – and the Dom Pérignon ‘96 more or less defines the top end of the market
– is maddeningly hard to come by. You can’t just sashay into Berry Bros in St James’s Street whenever you feel like it and leave with a bottle of ’96 SOME LIKE IT
PINK
Cream Magazines takes a look at how champagne rosé is making a comeback this season, words Steve King
summer collection 51
under your arm. This is only partly a question of availability, since, despite what you may hear, even the finest vintage rosés exist in large-ish quantities. But the champagne market is like the diamond market. Supply of the best stuff is carefully rationed by producers.
Rosé, like champagne itself, came about through a happy accident, with a bit of red wine finding its way into the mix or some red grape skins coming into contact with the must long enough to give it a tint. These days it’s made by one or other of those techniques, usually the first.
But there is really no need to think of champagne as fundamentally different from any other kind of wine – it is simply a fine wine that happens to come from the Champagne region of France. What’s more, a good rosé can mature better than other champagne styles, especially the all-white blanc de blancs, since the latter’s main ingredient, chardonnay, doesn’t age gracefully.
Is the Dom Pérignon ‘96 as good as the ‘88 or the ‘90, two other contenders for top-vintage status? Well, I only wish I could offer a learned comment on that, but, like most of the rest of the wine-loving world, I honestly haven’t got a clue. What I can tell you for sure is this: the Dom Pérignon ‘96 rosé is dynamite. It’s full-bodied and velvety, with a delicate bite in the aftertaste. Not particularly whiffy, but with teasing notes of tangerine and vanilla, and hints of marzipan and dry grass – the country meadow kind, not the Thai Stick kind, of course. There’s nectarine and chamomile discreetly hovering in the background too.
What’s much more obvious, though, is the colour. A brilliant, almost electric tincture of apricot and copper. It’s not even pink.
LEFT TO RIGHT: David Downton’s illustration of Eva Herzigova drinking rose in Annabel’s club; Eva Herzigova, by Karl Lagerfeld for Dom Perignon
52 summer collection
PRIDE OF THE PRANCING HORSE
54 summer collection
LEFT: Striking and dynamic – 430 Scuderia
extends Ferrari boundaries yet again
Kevin Haggarthy travels to the Ferrari HQ in Maranello and test drives the new Ferrari 430 Scuderia
TThe new Ferrari 430 Scuderia. Stupendous, sensational, and one of the fastest ever Ferrari road cars. Yet here is a Ferrari of relatively humble origins, being the adrenalin-pumped off spring of Ferrari’s best selling ‘entry level’ F430.
At its debut in 2004, the F430 did more than prove a worthy successor to the 360 Modena it replaced, it took the baby supercar’s performance to new heights, causing rivals such as Lamborghini, Porsche, Aston and other rivals to pause in their tracks. The F430 wasn’t just a bigger engined, faster 360, but a totally new car. To many, despite being the ‘baby’ Ferrari of the production line up, the F430 is, in terms of pure motoring genius, often referred to as ‘the best’.
summer collection 55
OPPOSITE PAGE (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT): Carbon mirror housings, part of weight saving package; Lightweight aluminium alloys mated with grippy specially developed P Zero Corsa tyres; ‘Super racing seats boast all carbon fibre structure
Hardcore
Yet there is always room for something more hard core. With the 360, it was the Challenge Stradale, a lighter, quicker, more stiffly sprung rude car. When we drove the Stradale last year at Fiorano, we referred to it as ‘simply brilliant – one of life’s ultimate motoring pleasures. We thought it couldn’t be bettered …and then came the new F430, and it was….but now the Scuderia is here, and the stakes are raised, yet again.
‘Scuderia Ferrari’ denotes the name of the racing team founder Enzo Ferrari who ran for Alfa Romeo in the 1930s. A fitting tribute to a man whose life was dominated by the love of speed, and who went on to create this coveted motoring legend in his name. In those days it was all about brute horsepower. With the new Scuderia, this latest state-of-the-art expression of Ferrari genius is proof that less is more. It is as quick as the legendary 200 mph £350,000 Ferrari Enzo, and indeed quicker in a straight line – yet the anomaly is that at £165,000 it is less than half price.
The stats say the Scuderia will hit 62 mph in less than 3.6 seconds and top 198 mph. The standard F430 hits 62 mph in 4.1 secs, topping a maximum of 193 mph. These are big improvements, not easily achieved when your base line product was just so good anyway. But any true enthusiast knows that tenths of a second here or there by no means tells the really important story; it’s ‘the way she does it’ that counts, especially in this league – and it’s where the Scuderia story gets really interesting.
Ferrari say that one of the reasons why the Scuderia has a decisive performance advantage over the Enzo is that it carries technological innovations not even in existence in 2003 when the Ferrari Enzo was launched. Ferrari reckon it boils down to two broad key differences – the dynamics and the driving experience.
56 summer collection
The stats say the Scuderia will hit 62 mph in less than 3.6 seconds and top 198 mph. The standard F430 hits 62 mph in 4.1 secs, topping a maximum of 193 mph
Dynamic by design
To dynamics first; aerodynamics to be precise. Achieving ultimate aerodynamic efficiency dictated several months in the wind tunnel for this car. The result - larger front vents with meshed metallic grilles, lower profile bumper and chin spoiler, and deep heavy breather side skirts. There’s a bigger diffuser at the rear, enhanced by a revised profile for the back spoiler to balance the downforce created by the newly designed front end. The exhausts outlets are mounted higher allowing more air to flow through the rear bumper vents. Wing mirrors are all carbon fibre, and the car is 15 mm lower than the F430. Weight reduction is enhanced by the extensive use of carbon fibre. The result is a 30 Kg increase in downforce at maximum speed with no adverse impact on the cars drag co-efficient.
Inside, the 430 Scuderia is indeed stripped to the bone, reminiscent of the old yet legendary F40 but
admittedly a little less spartan than its older cousin. It’s mostly carbon fibre, bare metal in places, and alcantara should you choose it. The manually adjustable racing seats add an even greater sense of occasion, they are completely new, and provide (much needed) extra support in extreme driving conditions. The instrument display is typically Ferrari – functional, simple, driver focused, unfussed, yet somehow ‘classic’ in appearance, like a very expensive watch. Yet somehow the stripped ultra lightweight interior looks fantastic, even more striking than that of the standard car.
Two other technical innovations give the Scuderia its dynamic edge. The first is a highly technical ‘E-diff with F1 –Trac.’ What this does, for the first time in a road car, is integrate the traction control system with the various driver and road condition set up options available in the car, by intelligently shuffling around the torque to the rear wheels. This, according to Ferrari,
is the most significant feature in making the Scuderia drive like a race car. It doesn’t just deaden power when you go over the limit, it smoothes out your mistake and makes you think you’re Michael Schumacher.
Next up of the dynamic three is the Racing Manettino. The Manettino already features in several Ferrari road cars. In simple terms it is a little red switch on the steering that allows you to adjust the settings of the car to suit driver preference and road conditions. The Scuderia, on Mr Schumacher’s advice, has a new additional setting, the CT which turns off the vehicle’s traction control system (to allow us wild boys a bit of wheelspin) but kicks in the stability control when we appear to be running out of skill.
The driving
The big Part 2 of the Scuderia equation is the driving, and quite specifically – engine, gearbox, and sound. Engine output is increased
from 114 to 118 hp per litre. Modified engine ducts and exhaust system ensure the engine breathes and releases air more freely, and the compression ratio has been increased as a result of revised piston design.
Sound was a biggie in the Scuderia driving dynamics equation too. Not least for the emotion. Ferrari people understand the importance of sound, and this one has been tuned to a tee. It sounds literally amazing – I can’t even remember if our car had a radio, and once behind the wheel of the Scuderia, believe me, you won’t even care. Yet the exhaust modifications work at the business end too as we’ll see on the drive.
The F1 Superfast 2 gearbox is the other big Scuderia driving highlight. An evolution of the F1 gearbox used on all Ferrari models, the Superfast 2 reduces gear change time to just 60 milliseconds. I can’t even think that fast; and it’s the closest gear change speed time to an F1 car than any road going Ferrari to date…it’s time to look for those keys.
summer collection 57
Behind the wheel
Prudence suggested caution on first acquaintance; it would hardly be ‘cool’ to embarrass yourself with what felt like the whole of the Ferrari workforce standing by. The familiar bleeps and whirrs greeted the turn of the ignition key, and a press of the red starter button on the steering wheel caused an explosion from the rear,- and a grin from ear to ear. The tone was smooth, with obviously endless range, razor sharp, piercing, powerful, assertive yet so confident. This is the time when people stop and stare; A Ferrari has come to life. That engine tone alone, even at idle, gives you so much information about the car’s capability. Oh, and it’s not just a symphony of pleasing melodies, it is a simple equation of promise and more importantly, it is matched by delivery.
The official performance stats, combined with the Enzo/F40 beating credentials suggested initial apprehension on the first drive. Will it be a wild animal? Will it throw me off the road if I put on just a little too much throttle at the wrong time? Should I beg Ferrari to loan me Mr. Schumacher for a few driving lessons? No. Quite the contrary in fact. The Scuderia is so refined, controllable, and user friendly in town that you’de hard pushed thinking what all the fuss was about. It is even ‘quiet’ to the point that you’d be tempted to
58 summer collection
Extensive wind tunnel development shows deeper vented front spoiler and higher mounted exhausts
Yet the magic is the almost surreal experience of exploiting the total Scuderia package. Every single mechanical and dynamic improvement is matched by reward.
think it no big deal to use this car every day. That’s quite an achievement, for should you seek to tease all but an ounce of its potential and the Scuderia reacts instantly, the wonderful hollow tone of that exhaust making its presence known.
That experience alone, the instant capacity to switch from Jekyll to Hyde urges you to find the roads this car was really made for. We were soon into the winding hills of Modena, and pushing hard. Nature is a fine thing, for it soon became obvious that the heavens had carved these roads just for Ferraris. The Scuderia was indeed in its own territory now, one that it rules with unequivocal brilliance. The old Italian villagers were indeed used to this rude assault, barely lifting their heads from their newspapers to acknowledge yet another red Ferrari piercing the village silence. Yet there seemed a sense of latent pride coming from the locals, our red Ferrari clearly an object of national pride.
Gauging local reactions to the car was a relief; a green light to open up the Ferrari in the freedom of the hills leaving them only with the echo of
aural pleasure that went on well beyond the line of sight. It was here that the Scuderia crescendo came into its own, hard throttle gives piercing and relentless acceleration in any gear all the way up to a heady 8,500 rpm. We were soon on a mission; ‘long’ straights proving only brief interludes to the next bend. And you’ll smile every time that bend comes, because it is your next driver challenge; the carbon ceramic brakes working spot on every time, no matter how hard you push that pedal, and as the brakes warm they blend with the extra grippy feel of the made to order soft compound Pirelli P Zero Corsa tyres, leaving you the joy of experiencing the results of the substantial technical workover on this car.
And that’s easy. It is some time since we last drove the standard F430, yet the superior qualities of the Scuderia stand out a mile. The E-dif with F1 Trac works a treat – you can literally floor the throttle just before an apex on a tight fast bend and instead of oversteering into hospital, you can feel the back end moving the torque around and taking you through that bend both quicker
and safer than any manual skill you can muster. Pure driver flattery – but so safe. And the grip on those bends is tremendous, generating massive g-forces, those new racing seats proving essential.
Steering feel has been slightly upgraded to work with the Scuderia’s higher performance potential, allowing wonderfully precise, yet perfectly weighted steering input at all times, and whilst the purpose of gear changing is indeed to aid progress, you’ll be playing with those paddles just as much for the sound as the sheer pleasure of doing so. And the changes are almost imperceptibly quick.
Yet the magic is the almost surreal experience of exploiting the total Scuderia package. Every single mechanical and dynamic improvement is matched by reward. You can feel and experience every single technical innovation. As a Scuderia customer, I would have the confidence of knowing that there is a result on the road for every single improvement made, and what’s more, I don’t have to be Michael Schumacher to prove it.
And finally, don’t expect rock hard competition level ride here – Mr test driver Schumacher saw to it that an additional softer suspension setting option combined with ‘Race’ mode on the Manettino was the best way to make mince meat of the Nordschleiffe and hence mashed potato of any other poorly surfaced road. .
Ultimate performance.
Meridian audio and video systems
Meridian Audio Limited
Latham Road Huntingdon Cambridge PE29 6YE, UK +44 (0)1480 445678
info@meridian-audio.com
http://www.meridian-audio.com/
ABOVE: Full harnesses do the job – available at extra cost BELOW: Carbon ceramic discs 18 mm larger than those on the F430
We want one
“So how was it?” came the question from Ferrari’s Press personnel as I cruised gently back into the Ferrari factory from the day’s drive. The answer to that was easy. I told the truth “I just died and went to heaven!” Driving this car is the thrill of a lifetime. If you love driving, the 430 Scuderia is about as ‘high’ as you will ever get for any money, in any legal road car on earth, even when compared to Bugatti Veyron territory; others just do it differently. This way you do it Ferrari.
We have driven faster cars, more expensive cars, even more exotic cars, some match, but none exceeds the thrill and pleasure of punting this particular Ferrari through the hills of Maranello. At this point I’d like to say
something critical, discerning, unemotional and balanced, but then if I did the magic of this ultimate 430 Scuderia would not have been achieved… by Ferrari. And the point is this: when you get out of a car like the Scuderia, you should be full of superlatives, excited, like a child even, for that is the raison d’être of this car. It is why you buy it.
The serious side to the moral of the story is that telling you about how the Scuderia makes you feel is just as important as describing how it delivers the goods. You can’t put a price on this experience by the way; you must simply drive the car. With the Scuderia, you buy into the spirit of Ferrari, the heart of the legend, and when you drive it, you live the dream!
Price: £172,500
Engine
• Type • Bore and Stroke • Total displacement • Compression ratio • Maximum power • Specific output • Maximum torque • Maximum revs per minute Performance
• Acceleration • Maximum Speed 90° V8
3.26 x 3.19 in (92 x 81 mm) 263 cu in 4308 cm3 11.88:1 375.4 kW (510 CV) at 8500 rpm 118.4 CV/litre 470 Nm (346.67 lbft) at 5250 rpm 8640 rpm (with limiter) 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in less than 3.6 s; 0-124 mph (0-200 km/h) in less than 11.6 s; 0-1000 m in 20.9 s 198 mph (320 km/h)
60 summer collection
The Sunseeker 37 Metre Yacht DISTANT PORTS JUST GOT CLOSER
http://www.sunseekerboats.co.uk/
Sunseeker London
36 Davies Street, Mayfair, London W1K 4NF (Head Office) Tel: +44 (0)20 7355 0980 Fax: +44 (0)20 7355 0985 Email: info@sunseekerboats.co.uk With offices in: London (UK) – Monaco – La Napoule – Beaulieu Sur Mer – Cannes (South of France)
– Egypt – Istanbul (Turkey) – Greece – St Lucia – Channel Islands Sunseeker builds a range of 24 luxury motoryachts up to 37 metres.
outdoor living at its best
The finest quality timber decks
Expertly designed and installed
Built to last a lifetime
For more information on how you can enjoy your garden by creating a new living space contact the country’s leading decking company:
THE OUTDOOR DECK COMPANY Tel: 020 8977 0820
E-mail: sales@outdoordeck.co.uk Website: http://www.outdoordeck.co.uk/
When you really want to get away from it all, but you’ve only got a few days to spare, where do you go? From sexy seaside hideaways to romantic rural retreats, Juliet Kinsman, editor of the Mr & Mrs Smith travel guides, recommends her favourite European short-break destinations. Photographs by Adrian Houston
THE GREAT
ESCAPE
IIsn’t the point of escaping to a hotel to enjoy surroundings and service more special than you have at home – otherwise why bother? And, as this is your leisure time, who wants a whiff of the corporate world? Jaded by the global homogenisation of culture and design, we crave quirkiness, and we demand quality, nowhere more so than in our holiday destinations. Nothing is more seductive than the feeling that you’re staying somewhere unique. That’s why, for our third guidebook, European Coast and
Country (Spy Publishing, £19.95), we scoured the continent for rural and beach hideaways bursting with personality.
In an attempt to win back the discerning hotel-lover, multinational chains are resorting to more and more gimmicks; the more clued-up dazzle us with iPod stations and imply attention to detail with pillow menus and pet concierge services. While these are cute sweeteners, nothing beats that truly personal touch, from one-off furnishings to hands-on hoteliers.
When bombarded with trend reports and wow-factor imagery, it’s hard for originality to exist. No matter how ground-breaking an interior is, you can bet your faux Baccarat chandelier that any stylings – be they modernist or maximalist – will be carbon copied and transferred to a wine bar near you before the style pages they first graced have reached the end of their shelf life. The big-boy boltholes and high-street hang-outs do all they can to emulate the charm of a boutique stopover, but for a hotel to be really special, nothing beats an
element of surprise. That’s what we hope awaits you with our recommended retreats. They have been chosen for their size, looks and location, and we sent taste-makers and renowned scribes such as Giles Coren, Howard Marks and Ilse Crawford to visit – anonymously – some of our favourites and share their adventures with us…
summer collection 65
Escondrijo, Vejer
Style: Moorish but modern Setting: cobbled streets of Costa de la Luz. Rooms: four; two have private terraces. Rates: €75-130, including breakfast, excluding 7% tax Our favourite rooms: room 1 isa spacious duplex with large veranda on the upper level. For a sexy stay, book room 3, the Red Room
More information and booking:
Book online at http://www.mrandmrssmith.com/ or call the Smith travel team: 0845 034 0700
SPSPSPAIN AINAIN
TTenette Ludlow and her partner, Nigel Anderson, are two British refugees from urban servitude who brought this former chapel back from the dead in 2004. They have made of it something that, depending on how you look at it, is either a tiny, intimate and quite stunning boutique hotel or a private home with four rooms set aside for paying guests. And that is the great thing about it. For as long as you are in Vejer – whether it’s a month or just a night – this is your home. And it’s not some dubious self-catering duplex with a view of
66 summer collection
the petrol station; it is a dream of the simply observing a foreign lifestyle Spanish Golden Age. The drama of and environment, about witnessing black wrought iron against white historical continuity and low-key walls looks as attractive inside as exoticism, rather than living it; it does out in the village streets. somewhere like Escondrijo But here there are many-coloured (meaning “hidden place”), tiles, too, restored and relocated, couldn’t be more life affirming. and rich fabrics, and gently pulsing music – ambient house and trip-hop never seemed so Moorish. It was like going to stay with one’s very posh Andalucían friends – except that if it belonged to any posh Andalucían friends of mine, it would probably still be falling down. Travelling can so often be about
PPuglia is located in Italy’s sunny south, and its unique character and charm is little known to outsiders; the Italians, who flock here in the summer, keep this laid-back playground of blue sea, golden sands and olive groves strictly a family affair. Having expected a small place with just 30 rooms, we arrived in a warm and welcoming reception area. An open 17th-century chapel beamed out light and crucifixes, while white tuxedo-clad men and elegantly dressed Italian models crowded round a black grand piano dominating the fairy-lit courtyard.
Masseria Torre Coccaro, Puglia
Style: fortress refinement Setting: among sea scented olive groves Rooms: 37 Rates: €252 €1,233, breakfast and taxes included Our favourite rooms: room 35 is a junior suite in an ancient tower, with beautiful sea views and cosy fireplace. Room 6 is the Orange Garden suite, set into the bedrock, with large dining area, private garden and Jacuzzi. Room 16 has a private patio and beautiful vaulted ceiling
Further information and booking:
Book online at http://www.mrandmrssmith.com/ or call the Smith travel team: 0845 034 0700
ITITITALALALY YY
The hotel was hosting a full-scale and wooden garden benches wedding. What an introduction. tempted us to tarry. A lake-style pool, Our room (an old hayloft) was superbly integrated into formal exquisitely furnished with linen gardens, sloped down from an bedding, silky sofas, large baroque outdoor restaurant to a deep mirrors, and antique furniture from the subterranean Aveda spa offering a local markets. In the cave-like vast selection of massages, cures, bathroom, a giant shower head and therapies in hot and cold pools. presided over a stone square bath Not just a pretty place, Torre Coccaro surrounded by jars of blue bath salts, is also a masseria fortificata, a family-beautiful body and hair lotions. run working farm and fortress, Arched windows smiled from producing its own vegetables, fruits, whitewashed walls covered with olive oil, and salami, and few meals trailing plants and fragrant climbing can be more enjoyable than the honeysuckle. Caved recesses with sumptuous breakfast we enjoyed padded seating built within the walls in its formal gardens.
summer collection 67
101 Hotel, Reykjavík
Style: art-lovers’ ice-cool hibernicum Setting: harbourside in the capital Rooms: 38 Rates: ISK29,900–ISK79,900 (apartment suite) Our favourite rooms: ask for a room on the side of the hotel that overlooks the harbour. Junior suites have double-aspect views of the harbour and the old town
Further information and bookings:
Book online at http://www.mrandmrssmith.com/ or call the Smith travel team: 0845 034 0700
ICELAND ICELANDICELAND
LLocated on the edge of the Arctic Circle and surrounded by a volcanic landscape, Reykjavík has developed its own fascinating and wonderfully idiosyncratic sense of style. Iceland may not be the most obvious destination when planning a seaside sojourn, but if it’s a stylish weekend escape on the ocean’s edge you crave, this contemporary crib is as cool as they come. The exterior is classic Icelandic, but inside it’s all about refined elegance and stylish comfort. Modern and monochrome, it has a
68 summer collection
slick bar and restaurant and, as the hotel has a sister gallery round the corner, original artwork spills out into the hotel. As for our boudoir, silver-clawed freestanding bath, blanched-oak floors, an ultra-comfortable bed draped in white linen and a rug with monogram gave it a cosiness that made it hard not to stay anchored. Attention to detail was clearly high on the agenda. From the smell of the rosemary-and-mint shampoo to a silver travel alarm clock, everything is carefully considered; and in a thoroughly 21st-century twist,
these touches are also often available to buy. Resisting the urge to stockpile souvenirs, we headed down to 101’s pitstop – again, effortlessly cool. Nightcaps ordered from the long, black glass bar where white-leather stools line up like soldiers on parade, we raided the magazine library and settled into black-leather banquettes feeling like extras in a Scandinavian arthouse movie. .
Property Planning and development is an art. It requires patience, precision and persistence to achieve the very best solution. You need highly skilled negotiators who have an eye for fine detail and the expertise to liaise with Local Authorities to get the results you want. At The Garland Group, we have the experience and knowledge to guide you successfully through the complex labyrinth of property planning and plot development. Our unique approach and valuable contacts assure that planning permissions and related agreements are successfully secured, time and time again, especially where others have previously failed. Don’t settle for anything less. For more information, please contact The Garland Group on 01932 863739, email info@garlandgroup.co.uk or visit http://www.garlandgroup.co.uk/ your blueprint for success in property planning & development 1A High Street, Cobham, Surrey KT11 3DH in every detail excellenceProperty Planning and development is an art. It requires patience, precision and persistence to achieve the very best solution. You need highly skilled negotiators who have an eye for fine detail and the expertise to liaise with Local Authorities to get the results you want. At The Garland Group, we have the experience and knowledge to guide you successfully through the complex labyrinth of property planning and plot development. Our unique approach and valuable contacts assure that planning permissions and related agreements are successfully secured, time and time again, especially where others have previously failed. Don’t settle for anything less. For more information, please contact The Garland Group on 01932 863739, email info@garlandgroup.co.uk or visit http://www.garlandgroup.co.uk/ your blueprint for success in property planning & development 1A High Street, Cobham, Surrey KT11 3DH in every detail excellence Farol Design Hotel, Cascais
Style: modernist-hedonist Setting: left of Lisbon Rooms: 34, including one suite and 11 rooms styled by different fashion designers Rates: €100-400, including breakfast Our favourite rooms: for a modern influence, plump for the new wing; for high ceilings and more space, go for the old building. Ask for a balcony overlooking the sea. Room 216, black and gold, is very rock ’n’ roll. Room 215, all white, is sleek, with breathtaking views
Further information and bookings:
Book online at http://www.mrandmrssmith.com/ or call the Smith travel team: 0845 034 0700
PORTUGAL
Onceasmall fishing village, Cascais creationof esteemed Portuguese still enjoysalaid-back atmosphere, fashiondesigners, someminimalist while weekend lovebirdsmingle and all white, others flamboyant and happily withholidaying familiesand utterly OTT.The designsavvy extends sun-baked surfers. Perched a few to the grounds, which ooze Café del feet from the Atlantic Ocean, Mar cool, and daybeds shrouded in this contemporary crib isthe fruit of an muslinare the perfect sanctumaway unusual marriage: that of a traditional from the busier pool area. In addition 19th-century Portuguese villaand a Le to thestyle, you’ll find edible Corbusier-styleextension incorporating substanceat thehotel’srestaurant, aslick restaurant and additional rooms. Rosa Maria. Serving up high-quality The blend of old and new isatriumph. Mediterranean cuisineand doffing its Theexterioris whiteand minimalist; the cap to national favourites, the kitchen interior iswood panelled and luxurious. presentseverything withmodern-Of the hotel’s 34 boudoirs, ten are the minded finesse.
These are edited extracts from Mr & Mrs Smith Hotel Collection: European Coast and Country, (Spy Publishing, £19.95). For information on Mr & Mrs Smith’s guidebooks or to book any of their recommended hotels, visit
http://www.mrandmrssmith.com/
70 summer collection
Best single room interior - Design and Decoration awards Best single room interior - Design and Decoration awards http://www.kitchenclinic.com/ Designed for life
London Battersea +44 207 924 7877 London Shepherds Bush +44 207 348 0877 Cape Town +27 21 421 5734 Johannesburg +27 11 726 2221
SUPERCARS ON TOUR 500 ‘08’
STEPPING UP THE GEARS
72 summer collection
We take a look at the exciting timetable for the Supercar 500 tour in 2008
TTo be an owner of a Supercar is to be a member of an exclusive club. It’s a club whose members share certain qualities in common: possession of a remarkable and stunning machine obviously, but also a certain success, a love of adventure and life in the fast lane, a flamboyance even and the desire to make the very most of their beautiful performance car.
Nigel Ross, who drives a Ferrari F430 Spider, saw that for a very special and particular group of owners, possession in itself might not be quite enough. He shrewdly observed that, while enjoyment and display of the car was an absolute given, there was an element of frustration in not being able to give your car full opportunity to demonstrate its performance potential on the road. Thus the Supercar 500 Tour was born, quite simply to liberate the ability of these fabulous cars by providing occasions for the maximum enjoyment of driving them.
The Supercar 500 is specifically designed for our most adventurous participants. We don’t hold back on any of the fun and thrills in either the driving or the entertainment side on these Tours, expecting and always attracting the most vibrant and life-enhancing people to join us, those who throw themselves with enthusiasm and passion into every aspect of the tour. Our drivers are energetic and used to making
the absolute most out of every day both professionally and socially. Extreme driving is combined with extreme partying, plenty of lavish entertainment along the route and culminating in a fabulous grand finale party on the last night.
We can’t help but believe that the designers of these superlative machines would have imagined just such a scenario as our forthcoming Supercar 500 for 2008. In just eight days, from Saturday 21st to Saturday 28th June, cars leaving Brands Hatch will arrive in Paris having driven in no less than eight countries. Challenging? Yes, certainly but Supercars on Tour clients expect no less, particularly in the safe and soothing knowledge of the extraordinary luxury, fine food and wine and four or five-star hotels awaiting them at the end of each day’s driving. Possible? Without a shadow of a doubt. It is company policy as a matter of course to have test driven all roads and every route we offer to clients.
On Saturday, 21st June a flying start is anticipated, commencing for the first time in England and continuing through Belgium, Luxembourg, Holland, Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Italy and France. Coupled with this amazing opportunity is the chance to test driving-skills on the Monza Motor Circuit on the outskirts of Milan.
The journey covers over 1,500 miles and a range of environments and scenery of stunning diversity:
it will be fascinating to monitor your car’s response to such a variety of road types. The trip will include the sweeping route of the Black Forest, unrestricted stretches of Autobahn outside Stuttgart, sensational mountain passes of the Tyrol and steep climbs in the Italian, French and Swiss Alps. Then the fabulous two hours spent at Monza, which is topped off by a night out in Milan where style is at its finest. On to Lake Lausanne, up through France and our grand final prize giving and party in the heart of Paris.
As ever the days will be interspersed by nights of unforgettable glamour and fun; the chance to mingle with your fellow drivers and exchange opinions and tales of the day’s driving, as well as share in the love of excellent food and wine and discover the many common interests that bind a diverse group of people undertaking the same adventure. New friendships and even business associations are invariably a by-product of all Supercars Tours and events, and these evenings are also a necessary and most enjoyable way of switching off after the inevitable adrenalin rush of the day.
The exact location and start time will be made available strictly to entrants only: discretion and protection of privacy is a key element of Supercars on Tour. The first day, Saturday 21st June, will see you getting together over breakfast, with your fellow entrants, and after a full briefing on the do's and don'ts
The route is even more sensational than ever, with trails of supercars snaking through narrow high gorges, climbing and then descending winding mountain passes
summer collection 73
As ever the days will be interspersed by nights of unforgettable glamour and fun
for the week ahead, we're off heading South to catch the shuttle to Calais, and then onwards travelling through France via Belgium, Holland and Luxembourg, to Germany. The day is spent travelling through the vast plains, that this area of Europe is famous for, you will get a chance to sample the delights of Belgium chocolate (maybe buy some for the trip ahead), you will see the windmills of Holland, and the canals as we pass them by. The day then comes to a dramatic finale, with it being Saturday night, and being in Cologne, one of Germany’s oldest cities, known to be one of Europe's top nightlife spots, It's party time, those up for it can go out on the town and party away the night! Accommodation for the night is at the Excelsior Hotel Ernst in Cologne, a member of The Leading Hotels of the World.
It goes without saying that Supercars on Tour has personally inspected and stayed at all the hotels en route: nothing is left to chance. Leaving the Excelsior on Sunday, 22nd June, the day starts with us moving rapidly along the unrestricted autobahn, we find ourselves travelling for most of the day through the Rhineland-Palatinate region of Germany, lovers of white wines will be familiar with this region being the source of some of the most revered white wines, grown in the picturesque valleys of the Rhine and Mosel rivers. Our route takes us through magical classic German villages, where fairytale castles abound, before arriving in Baden Baden, known as “the summer capital of Europe. Baden positively bristles with outstanding places to see and things to do, so whether you fancy another night on the town, or a more leisurely trip around the city's Bier kellers, the choice is yours. Our luxurious accommodation for that night, Brenners Park Hotel, Baden Baden.
On Monday 23rd, after a sumptuous breakfast, we're off again travelling through some of the most atmospheric and memorable country of our trip, it seems that everywhere you look; you see
magnificent castles dominating the scenery, our route then takes us on into the “Black Forrest”, a truly memorable experience, to say the least. After lunch we head off into Bavaria, a remarkably stunning region of Germany, we pass some of the most beautiful lakes in Europe, before driving up into the German Alps, where we cross over into Austria. Arriving late afternoon at the Weisses Rossi, Kitzbuhel, Austria, our accommodation for the night.
Halfway through our tour and we cross the mountains from Austria into Italy on Tuesday 24th June, encompassing some of the most challenging, high-level driving on this tour in the legendary Dolomites, over 90% of this region of Austria is given over to mountains, and we spend most of the day at over 5,000 feet. A lot of adrenalin-pumping Mountain driving is to be had as we criss-cross the steep narrow awe-inspiring mountain valleys. But don't forget our expert support teams are always in place and never more than minutes away, should you need assistance of any kind. We stay at the Alpenroyal Grand Hotel in Selva Val Gardena.
On Wednesday 25th June the tour sees the cars snaking through the Italian Alps, we go up, we go down, we go across high mountain cols, the driving experience is truly sublime, and after all this we conclude the day with what is probably the highlight of the week, two hours driving on the Formula 1 Monza Race Circuit in Milan. It's unlikely that anyone experiencing this will ever forget it: another good reason for bonding with your co-drivers. Memories shared long after your return revisit the sheer exhilaration of your experience and however good your powers of description it really is a case of 'You had to be there!' Accommodation that night is at the Grand Visconti Palace in Milan and after such a thrilling day you may well wish to go and enjoy Milan's fabulous night life.
Thursday 26th June, you may wish to start the day .
74 summer collection
early with a quick visit to the shops and boutiques,
in what must be, the most stylish city in the world. The day sees us heading north into Switzerland, we travel through the heart of the Dolomites, the super ski region of Italy over dramatic mountain passes which again will furnish drivers with some of their most amazing memories. Accommodation overnight is at world famous Badrutt's Palace in glamorous and elegant St. Moritz.
Time flies and suddenly it's the penultimate day, Friday 27th June, which is spent driving from St. Moritz through the Alps to Montreux, our trip takes us through some of the most unspoilt countryside in the Alps, visiting along the way some of the world’s most famous ski resorts, before arriving on the banks of beautiful Lake Lausanne on the Swiss/French border. Of course we are seeing these divine places at what has to be one of the most beautiful times of year, with maximum light and long evenings in which to drink in the surroundings of the fantastic hotels we've chosen for the tour.
The last day, Saturday 28th June, the morning sees us travelling along Lake Lausanne, before heading north east towards Dijon, where we have arranged lunch at one of our favourite restaurants, Abbaye de la Bussiere, a beautiful former abbey (please see details in separate feature), after lunch we head north on the Auto route to Paris, and the finishing line. The evening is party time and past experience tells us that this is truly a night for letting your hair down; a triumphant end to an incredible week and the grand prize-giving, although we always stress that these tours are not a race. But it's fun to reward those first in.
We stay that night at the Intercontinental Paris Grand Hotel and on Sunday 29th June depart, reluctantly, for home. As ever the tour will have been fully supported by our teams with qualified mechanics and parts package which includes tyres to deal with most problems should they arise.
76 summer collection
HOTEL WEBSITES:
• Excelsior Hotel Ernst, Cologne, Germany www.excelsiorhotelernst.de/eng • Brenners Park Hotel, Baden Baden, Germany http://www.brenners.com/ • Weisses Rossi, Kitzbuhel, Austria www.roesslkitz.at/en/page/hotel • Alpenroyal Grand Hotel, Selva Val Gardena, Italywww.alpenroyal.com/eng/willkommen.htm • The Grand Visconti Palace, Milan, Italy www.grandviscontipalace.com/ • Badrutt’s Palace, St. Moritz, Switzerland http://www.badruttspalace.com/ • The Montreux Palace, St. Moritz, Switzerland www.montreux-palace.com/fr/ • The Intercontinental Paris Grand Hotel http://www.paris-le-grand.intercontinental.com/ ENTRY COST FOR THE TOUR:
£8,500 to include:
• Car entry for driver and co-driver • 8 nights’ accommodation in luxury four or five star hotels with dinner/breakfast (choice of double or twin rooms) • Return Eurotunnel ticket for car and two persons • Fully qualified mechanic and support marshalling team available throughout tour • Gala party in Paris • Hosted cocktail parties during tour • All maps and documentation • Up to two hours driving on the Monza circuit PAYMENT TERMS:
Deposit of £8,500 on completion of entry form. Payable by cheque or credit card (please note a 2% surcharge will be applied to all credit card payments excluding American Express which will be subject to a 5% surcharge).
Also available are the booking of additional nights at both the start and finish locations, single rooms at a supplement. If you are being joined by a companion for the final night gala party, we are able to book guest accommodation.
The routes and accommodation detailed are correct at the time of going to print, but may be amended if deemed appropriate by the Directors of Supercars on Tour. If you would like to join us or for further information please call:
Nigel Ross on 07710 520084, or email nross@supercarsontour.co.uk Or contact Nicky Sparks at our Hartham Park office on 01249 700160
Pictured:PLUSMODOMattlacquerVH479MineralWhiteandVH475TitanGrey,withElmVeneerandAluminiumPictured:PLUSMODOMattlacquerVH479MineralWhiteandVH475TitanGrey,withElmVeneerandAluminium450 Poggenpohl Studios Worldwide.
Exclusive UK Poggenpohl Kitchen Design Centres:
Aberdeen Ascot -Berkshire Barnet -London, Hertfordshire Belfast
Birmingham -now open
Bournemouth Carlisle Colchester -Essex Dublin 4 Dublin 2 Dorking -Surrey Edinburgh Exmouth Gibraltar Glasgow Guernsey Guildford Kilmarnock
Kingston -now open
Leeds London -Finchley Road NW3 London -Knightsbridge SW3 London -Pimlico SW1 London -Wandsworth SW11 London -Waterloo SE1 London -Wigmore St W1
Manchester -now open Oxford -now open Salisbury -now open Widnes -coming soon
Wilmslow -Cheshire Worthing -Sussex
For a brochure or contact details of your nearest studio please call 08000 683 606 or visit poggenpohl.co.uk
IN RESPONSE TO RAPID GROWTH
Sunseeker Charters is expanding its services to clients through a special association with Sunseeker London
BBy fostering a close relationship with Sunseeker London – unique throughout the Sunseeker distribution network – the Poole-based Sunseeker Charters division can now offer its dedicated expertise in five more locations – Mayfair, Monaco, Beaulieu-Sur-Mer, La Napoule and Cannes, where Sunseeker London has its offices in France.
TEN BLISSFUL DAYS
Thanks to the new partnership with Sunseeker London, which boasts a network of four offices on the south coast of France, Sunseeker Charters now offers a spectacular ten day cruise between the South of France, Corsica and Sardinia. Here’s an itinerary to make anyone long for the sun…
Day 1 (from 12 noon) St Tropez to Porquerolles
On arrival, you will be welcomed on board your Sunseeker motoryacht by the skipper and crew and offered a glass of champagne. Once you have settled in, the vessel will slip its moorings, depart the marina and follow the coast round to the internationally renowned Cinq en Cinq restaurant, situated on the beach. You will be transported by tender from your charter motoryacht to the restaurant, where you will disembark at the restaurant’s private beach. After lunch, your vessel will set off towards the picturesque island of Porquerolles, situated a few hours south of St Tropez. Around the islands is a marine reserve – one of the best places to swim in the south of France. It is here that you will spend your first night at anchor.
Day 2 Porquerolles to Calvi
After a delicious continental breakfast, the yacht will set sail for Calvi, one of the most beautiful towns in Corsica. You will be able to sit back, relax and enjoy the five-hour cruise to Corsica. You may even be fortunate enough to see some dolphins! You will know when you have arrived at Calvi, as the town sits on a ledge of rock which seems to rise up out of the sea. After the yacht has docked in the picturesque marina, you may like to visit the old town, steeped in history, with wonderful, quaint narrow cobbled streets. It has a great citadel which dates from the 13th century, although the site was fortified around 500BC.
‘Sunseeker Charters and Sunseeker London have always had a strong relationship and, with the charter business growing steadily year on year, this new joint initiative seemed a very natural progression,’ said David Ward, Director of Sunseeker Charters.
Chris Head, Director of Sunseeker London commented: ‘Having a charter representative in each of our France,
Day 3 Calvi to Girolata
After a relaxing morning, your Sunseeker will cruise gently southwards to the bay of Girolata. This is a brilliant place to snorkel in the beautiful clear water or you may prefer to take out the jet tender and water ski – the choice is yours! After a full day spent enjoying water sports and breathtaking views, the vessel will moor for the evening in the village of Girolata, located at the head of the bay. This is definitely the place to be for those who love seafood, in particular langoustines. You may want to try the restaurant Le Bel ’Ombre, renowned for its seafood gastronomic delights. Everything in Girolata has to be brought in by boat, as it is shut off from the rest of Corsica by the steep mountains and ravines which gives Girolata a unique atmosphere.
Day 4 Girolata to Ajaccio
Your Sunseeker will head out of the bay southwards, hugging the fabulous coastline, before stopping to visit the Gulf of Porto for watersports. Others may want to visit the old fishing village of Porto itself. This area is one of the most spectacular and scenic places on the Corsican coast, offering a unique and dramatic beauty. Later in the day, the motoryacht will explore around Cap Rossi, before finally berthing for the night in Ajaccio, the capital of Corsica. Its hustle and bustle is set in stark contrast to the tranquillity of the surrounding areas.
Day 5 Ajaccio to Propriano
After a restful night, you will make your way to the old town of Propriano – a beautiful town, surrounded by green hills which slope gently up to the mountains behind, encircled like a necklace by the white, sandy beaches which stretch around the gulf. En route to the town, you will stop over at Porto Pollo which sits on a golden stretch of beach under gentle,
Monaco and London offices is a great advantage to our customers. Being able to offer on the spot charter advice gives potential clients a ‘try before you buy’ option and existing Sunseeker owners now have the option to charter out their vessels. We see this as a very positive move for all parties.’
With a range of luxurious craft from the Sunseeker 37M Trideck Yacht to the
wooden cultivated hills. This once fishing village is now a popular tourist resort. Later in the afternoon, you will cruise to Propriano to visit one of the great restaurants that surround the bay.
Day 6 Propriano to Bonifacio
You will spend the early part of the day anchored off Campomoro, with its tall palm trees dotted about giving the feel of a north African town. In the afternoon, your Sunseeker will head south to Bonifacio, passing some of the most dramatic coastline in Corsica on the way. Bonifacio is one of the Mediterranean’s most dramatic and memorable natural harbours. It is famous for its fish soup and views from the citadel, with its commanding position on top of the cliffs. In the evening, you may wish to try the elegant restaurant at the ‘Hôtel Residence du Centre Nautique’, specialising in seafood and pasta.
Day 7 Bonifacio to Porto Vecchio
In the morning, you will take a slow, relaxing cruise past the most southerly tip of Corsica. This area offers beautiful scenery, as well as a view of the multitude of boats passing through the strait. The motoryacht will cruise past the beautiful islands of Lavezzi and Calvallo, before arriving at the old Roman galley port of Porto Vecchio – which is literally carved out of the rock.
Day 8 Porto Vecchio to Porto Cervo
Today, you will head south again – this time to the Italian island of Sardinia. On the way, you will stop to anchor off the gorgeous island of Maddelena for lunch, then on to Porto Cervo. This port was originally built by the Agha Khan as a playground for Europe’s glitterati. It is the main town on the Costa Smeralda – one of the most prestigious tourist resorts in the Mediterranean. Cervo is
XS2000 race boat – Sunseeker Charters is confident that it has a choice to suit every taste.
Further information Please contact Lauren at Sunseeker London, 36 Davies Street, Mayfair, London. W1K 4NF. Tel: 0207 493 3441, Email: lauren@sunseekerboats.co.uk http://www.sunseekerboats.co.uk/
a shopping paradise, with all the world’s big name stores. Every evening, the people throng the pretty streets and restaurants – to see and be seen.
Day 9 Porto Cervo – Porto Rotondo
Near to Porto Cervo is a fantastic anchorage in the bay of the famous hotel Cala de Volpi. Here, the water is clear blue and the beaches whiter than white. This is a great place in which to snorkel or relax in the water. You may prefer to mix with the jet set and perhaps take lunch in the hotel itself, before going in to Porto Rotondo – known as one of the best marinas anywhere in Europe, with numerous regattas going on throughout the summer.
Day 10 Porto Rotondo to Ajaccio
Today, you will head north, to complete the last few days of the charter in Corsica and Sardinia. Before reaching Corsica, you will stop for lunch off the Sardinian islands of Isola Razzoli and Isola Spargi. These islands are part of the Maddalena Archipelago National Park and Marine Reserve. There are few inhabitants, and the islands remain unchanged – as they were when they formed part of the Roman Empire. The sea bed is of beautiful white sand interspersed with rock – a wonderful place to snorkel. After lunch, you will again sail through the strait between Sardinia and Corsica, before reaching Ajaccio – as the sun sets on the water.
Day 11 (until 12 noon) Ajaccio – St Tropez
An early morning start is necessary to complete this final leg of your charter holiday. Your motoryacht will head west out of Ajaccio and on towards the Côte d’Azur. Enjoy the delights of life on board the wonderful Sunseeker, before you disembark for the final time at 12 noon.
Tempted?
HOME FROM HOME
Karen Howes showcases an eclectic mix of beautiful properties from around the world, taken from her book Vacation Homes, published by Merrell, some which may be rented
summer collection 79
80 summer collection
BAHOLYODHIN HOUSE, BANGKOK, THAILAND
As creative director of the Thai Silk Company, Ou Baholyodhin was looking for a house to commute to in Bangkok which would compliment his luxurious penthouse on Highgate Hill, London. Baholyodhin House is more exotic and colourful; heavy gates shut out the bustle of Bangkok and within the compound is a pool surrounded by jungle greenery. The house was designed by the German architect Stefan Schlau to promote a calm and simple way of life although, in reality, Ou’s existence is very far from that.
OCEAN VIEW, MUSTIQUE, ST VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
It is only 50 years ago that Colin Tennant (Lord Glenconner) bought the island of Mustique. Ailing from the collapse of the sugar plantations, when Lord Glenconner took the reins there was no water and little infrastructure. Since then the island has developed a cotton industry and become a favourite among the international jet set. To the handful of people who are privileged enough to own a property on Mustique it is quite simply paradise.
Ocean View is one of only 120 exclusive villas permitted on the island and is designed by Oliver Messel (the theatrical designer) in collaboration with architect Arne Hasselquist.
The villa sits on one of the two highest points of the island with spectacular views across the Caribbean. The owner has furnished the property with an eclectic mix of pieces from Myanmar and Thailand. Wicker was sourced from New York and mahogany from the Caribbean. The dining room has French 1940s style furniture where as the bedroom was inspired by the 1930s design of the Jean-Michel Frank wall lights. A spectacular octagonal entrance hall leads into the central courtyard which overlooks the swimming pool and ocean beyond. .
PREVIOUS PAGE: Baholyodhin House,
Bangkok, Thailand
ABOVE: At night the gazebo and swimming
pool terrace are lit with lanterns
LEFT: A spectacular octagonal entrance hall
leads through to a central courtyard which
overlooks the pool and ocean beyond
82 summer collection
DUNTON HOT SPRINGS, COLORADO, USA
A former Colorado mining village that housed the region’s first European settlers in the late 19th century, Dunton Hot Springs is set in a mountain valley at the end of a dirt road leading south from Lizard Head Pass, about 48 kilometres (30 miles) south east of Telluride.
The project is the accomplishment of partners Bernt Kuhlmann and Christoph Henkel. Influenced by John Wayne and Zane Grey novels, they were enamoured of Western American culture and Dunton was a perfect venue. It not only allowed them to preserve a historic piece of the Wild West but also allowed them to offer the experience to other, like minded people looking for a touch of escapism, and so in 1994 they bought the ghost town.
For those buying into the dream, Dunton has a wealth of possibilities. In the summer, with the desert and vast Native Amercian reservation on its doorstep, it offers trips on horseback to Monument Valley, the Canyon of the Ancients and the Valley of the Gods.
During the winter months, when the settlement can be cut off from the outside world by snowdrifts, guests can go heli-skiing on the 4300-metre peaks that surround the resort, or explore on snowmobiles. Perhaps best of all is relaxing in a hot spring under the stars. The combination of water naturally heated to 41ºC exercise and altitude makes for a heady experience.
This special place is affordable only to a few, and Dunton’s inaccessibility and remotness, which lie at the heart of its appeal and exclusivity, ensure protection from mass tourism. It offers a retreat for those who live permanently in the glare of the media spotlight, as well as for those who just need to get away from it all for a while. .
TOP: Guests can while away the
evenings in the well-stocked library
LEFT: The bathhouse, which has been
perfectly restored, contains one of
Dunton’s three hot springs
84 summer collection
BEACH HOUSE, SHELA LAMU, KENYA
Lamu is a seductive island in the Indian Ocean, located two degrees below the equator. A narrow channel separates it from mainland Kenya and planes land on a rough airstrip on neighbouring Manda Island.
Lamu Old Town, Kenya’s oldest town, gives visitors an impression of stepping back in time, enhanced by the use of donkeys rather than cars. In its long history, it has been a thriving port, trading with the Arabs in the 16th century before its discovery by the Portuguese. Arab dhows with crescent shaped sails were used to export mangrove timber, ivory, amber, spices and slaves. By the mid 19th century Lamu had come under the rule of the Sultanate of Zanzibar, which controlled Kenya’s coastline until the country’s independence in 1963.
While Shela has seen significant development in the past ten years, few people are fortunate enough to own a property on Lamu, and houses for rent are in constant demand. Built in the dunes on the edge of Shela’s shoreline, Beach House faces the Indian Ocean. The villa’s thick walls are plastered with lime and it has a thatched makuti roof.
Instead of the traditional courtyard, Beach House has at its centre a ‘horizon’ swimming pool, one side of which faces out to sea. The house is furnished in typical Swahili style with benches and tables made by cabinet makers in Lamu using 18th century pattern books.
TOP: Evening meals are served on a simple wooden table beneath a massive baobab tree in the secluded garden LEFT: The central courtyard of the villa is dominated by a swimming pool with views over the beach and the stretch of water that separates Lamu from the mainland
Vacation Homes is available for the special price of £26.95 including postage and packing (rrp £29.95) by telephoning Marston Book Services on 01235 465 500 and quoting the reference MERVHCR.
With our rigorous training, state-of-the-art equipment, infinite attention to detail, unfailing courtesy and all-round dedication to customer care, it’s no surprise that we come so highly recommended.
As the market leaders we are honoured to have held the Royal Warrant by appointment to Her Majesty The Queen for removals and storage services since 1989
By Appointment To Her Majesty The Queen Removals and Storage Contractor Abels
FREEPHONE: 0800 626769 E-MAIL: enquiries@abels.co.uk
http://www.abels.co.uk/
Certificate No. FS23942
THE MARRIAGE OF
VISIONARIES
Possibly the finest residences in the world, created by Giorgio Armani and Emaar at Burj Dubai. Words:
Sandy Byrne
ABOVE: Giorgio Armani
AAs a byword for elegance and finesse, the name of Armani sits happily alongside that of another luminous visionary, Emaar Properties – surely a collaboration between the two is the marriage of genius. It would not be expected that the ultimately discerning Giorgio Armani would allow his brand to sit alongside any less distinguished than this high achieving company, or his style to adorn other than the most exclusive and desirable residences to be found anywhere in the world.
And so it proves. Floors 9 to 16 (144 residential apartments) of the world's tallest building, Burj Dubai, are designed by the maestro down to the finest, infinitesimal detail, while the building will also host the first Armani Hotel. Burj Dubai is currently more than 156 storeys high and continues to rise. To date, over 334,297 cubic metres of reinforced concrete and 65,456 tonnes of reinforcing steel have been used in Burj Dubai's construction. In short, it's an engineering and architectural miracle.
Armani Hotels and Resorts is a hugely significant step for the Armani brand and a major factor in setting this already astonishing development by Emaar apart from the rest. An unparalleled
distinction that only the Armani Group could achieve comes with the Giorgio Armani's personal involvement. And now Emaar has joined with Armani to launch ten luxury Armani Hotels and Resorts worldwide in the next ten years.
The iconic Burj Dubai, which hosts both Armani Hotel and Armani Residences, is at the heart of Emaar's flagship project - Downtown Burj Dubai. Spread over 500 acres, this $20 billion project comprises a mixed-use community combining commercial, residential, hotel, entertainment, shopping and leisure outlets, set in beautiful green spaces and dotted with lakes and water features.
The credentials of both parties are superlative – worldwide brands that need little introduction but whose statistics nonetheless make extremely interesting reading. Emaar Properties PJSC is one of the world's largest real estate companies, rapidly evolving to become a global provider of premier lifestyles. Its 'Vision 2010' sets out to make this one of the most valuable companies in the world by 2010, its rapid growth highlighted by its debut on the Financial Times Global 500 ranking which provides an annual look at the world's largest companies.
Armani, of course, is synonymous with style -
summer collection 87
in every area of contemporary life both aesthetic and functional. Less a brand really than a philosophy, Armani stands alone for epitomising a certain understated, clean aesthetic and creating pieces of singular beauty from the finest materials.
Giorgio Armani himself is renowned for standards of matchless excellence and not least for taking a view of style as a whole way of life, to permeate every aspect of the way we live now. His comments entirely reflect the approach taken to any project within the hugely diverse companies in the Armani Group. On going into the hotel business Mr. Armani says: 'I want to share more than the expression of personal spirit, taste and identity.’
'Armani Hotels and Resorts will bring to life my dream of creating a complete lifestyle. I cannot think of a more energising project than the opportunity to bring my philosophy of style and design to a collection of hotels, resorts and residences.'
Armani, of course, is synonymous with style - in every area of contemporary life, both aesthetic and functional.
The best dressed among international society already wear his clothes, the most glamorous and discerning people in the world decorate their homes from Armani/Casa and the London store was launched to loud acclaim two years ago. The man himself is widely recognised as both the pinnacle of taste and a brilliant businessman, and of this new project he has also said: 'I have greatly enjoyed the process of designing the residences as I have sought to find the perfect blend of the strictly personal atmosphere of a home and the more international, cosmopolitan feel of the Armani Hotels and Resorts project, of which this is an offshoot.’
The Armani Group is now one of the very few leading fashion and luxury goods empires in the world – it employs 5,000 direct employees and has 13 factories. The brand designs, manufactures, distributes and retails fashion products as diverse as clothing, accessories, eyewear, watches, jewellery, home furnishings, fragrances and cosmetics.
Armani Hotels and Resorts has now been established for two years – an agreement formed in 2005 by Giorgio Armani S.P.A and Emaar Properties. This surely is an alliance made in
88 summer collection
Armani Hotels and Resorts is a hugely significant step for the Armani brand and a major factor in setting this already astonishing development by Emaar apart from the rest.
OPPOSITE (FROM TOP TO BOTTOM):
Artist’s rendering of Downtown Burj Dubai; Bathroom ABOVE: Living room
architectural and designer heaven, with the confidence and undoubted ability to roll itself out all over the world. The objective indeed is to develop, own and operate some of the most exclusive hotels, resorts and residences in the most important city and holiday destinations.
It's foreseen that within 10 years at least 7 luxury hotels and 3 resorts will be open. It seems an entirely logical development for Mr. Armani himself as, combined with a certain exclusive luxury in his design, there is always the comfort and warmth of true Italian hospitality. A glance at his existing retail outlets shows his consummate ability to put rooms together as stores which are designed to show not simply one or two items, but how whole 'zones' of the home can be created using the range of furniture and decorative objects available from Armani/Casa – One room leads seamlessly into another in a style 'story'.
While the Armani Hotel Dubai will include 160 guest rooms and suites, restaurants and a spa covering more than 40,000 square metres, it is in the soaring Burj Dubai building that the residential
apartments are found. Every last detail has been designed and furnished by Giorgio Armani, with a specially commissioned line of products from the Armani/Casa home furnishings collection.
For this challenging and extensive project, Armani's signature approach of a smooth and understated style focuses on the compatibility of materials, form and lighting. Always bearing in mind the potential requirements of those fortunate individuals to whom ownership of such elegant apartments will appeal, privacy and intimacy were of equal consideration to visuals. And it is of paramount importance in such a colossal undertaking that there was a 'unique, personal touch,' as Giorgio Armani remarked.
The simple yet shrewd comment stands out in such an ambitious alliance as that he has entered with Emaar, and is backed by that of Chairman of Emaar Properties, Mohamed Ali Alabbar. 'Hosting the Armani Residences, defined by Giorgio Armani's personal touch, lends added distinction to Burj Dubai's status and prestige, he observes. 'We are opening doors to a unique luxury experience.'
summer collection 89
BELOW (FROM TOP TO BOTTOM):
Bedroom; Dining area and kitchen
Every last detail has been designed and furnished by Giorgio Armani, with a specially commissioned line of products from the Armani/Casa home furnishings collection.
90 summer collection
So the approach of one perfectly dovetails with the other in a true symbiosis – the antithesis of a homogenised chain of hotels. Each Armani Hotel and/or Resort truly reflects its context and retains an individuality that permeates every nuance and detail of these spectacular interiors.
Again the theme is of 'zones,' different areas within the apartments created using panels and rounded partitions to achieve a new definition of space (Armani's name is often quoted as having redefined interior design), and also creating a flow of perception that progressively and gradually reveals each room.
Lighting enhances the contours of the space, the sumptuous surfaces and fabric textures; a device characteristic of Armani and combined with the effects of ceiling spots and lamps from Armani/Casa.
With furnishings made to measure, bespoke finishes and bathrooms and kitchens featuring stylish yet practical materials, the inimitable Armani stamp is in every nuance of the residences creating a harmonious whole.
Potential owners are able to visit the Armani Sales Centre located in Downtown Burj Dubai for the sale of the 144 residences (by appointment only). Here a complete show Residence has been created to present the project, from the furnishing to the materials so that each space and its relationship to the others can therefore be viewed - lobby, living room, kitchen and bathroom.
Should they then be among the lucky ones to take up residence, the routine daily needs of purchasers are all in place, of course with the assistance of hotel services such as concierge, 24/7 room service, housekeeping and so forth. Then there's the range of lifestyle amenities on offer at Burj Dubai including the four luxury pools, cigar club, fitness facility and even an observatory for the inevitably sensational views of the city.
Armani Residences at Burj Dubai seems the perfect birthplace for this happy entente – exclusive living in not just literally the highest building in the world but with standards and intentions to match.
For further information contact:
Emaar Properties +97 14 3627621/ +97 155 6457221
Oceânico Prestige. For the Lifestyle of your Dreams. Imagine arriving in sun-kissed Portugal, then stepping into a chauffeur driven executive car and being whisked away to your five star luxury villa. The only decision you have to make is whether to sip martinis by your private pool, take a spin on the Sunseeker yacht or hit a few balls on one of the seven world-class golf courses where you now enjoy full membership.With Oceânico Prestige all this is an everyday reality. Luxury 5 bedroom Prestige villas, complete with luxury lifestyle, are available at Vilamoura Golf & Garden Resort. 0871 990 3388 (UK) 00351 282 320 688 (PT) http://www.oceanicogroup.com/ info@oceanicogroup.com Oceânico Prestige. For the Lifestyle of your Dreams. Imagine arriving in sun-kissed Portugal, then stepping into a chauffeur driven executive car and being whisked away to your five star luxury villa. The only decision you have to make is whether to sip martinis by your private pool, take a spin on the Sunseeker yacht or hit a few balls on one of the seven world-class golf courses where you now enjoy full membership.With Oceânico Prestige all this is an everyday reality. Luxury 5 bedroom Prestige villas, complete with luxury lifestyle, are available at Vilamoura Golf & Garden Resort. 0871 990 3388 (UK) 00351 282 320 688 (PT) http://www.oceanicogroup.com/ info@oceanicogroup.com MAKING YOUR HOME
YOUR SANCTUARY
Cream Magazines takes a look at how a growing queue of celebrities, who reckon that feeling and looking good doesn’t have to mean being snapped in their sweats outside an exclusive health club, are opting instead for a healthy lifestyle environment in their own home
92 summer collection
OPPOSITE PAGE: Audio visual entertainment; Below (LEFT TO RIGHT): Results based training; A refreshing retreat
IIt’s cool, it’s hip and it does you good. No, not a spa day in Dubai – more interior design for your body.
A growing queue of celebrities, who reckon that feeling and looking good doesn’t have to mean being snapped in their sweats outside an exclusive health club, are opting instead for a lifestyle health environment in their own home, with everything from fitness centre, to infinity pool and hi-tech relaxation space.
And while they work on their body’s interior design, why shouldn’t the sleek, top-of-therange fitness gear be surrounded by fine artwork, sumptuous fabrics and 3D entertainment?
In the mood for a strenuous workout, or want to chill out after an exhausting game of scrabble or a hectic day of rat-racing? Just like your watch, car and designer shoes, having your very own health and fitness environment is pleasure and usefulness combined.
And it is, of course, particularly pleasing in winter when others are scuttling through the slush to the local gym, or in summer for baring without scaring.
Such is the need from the high-end residential market for designer lifestyle fitness that trendy leisure design and build specialists such as Inspirit, are enjoying a demand from the jet setters of today.
Says Andy Mackiewicz, Inspirit’s managing director: ‘Design for the whole environment is key to our way of thinking – why should luxury and fitness be mutually exclusive? Cutting-edge fitness should be challenging, pampering and inspiring and that can be matched by a beautiful setting.’
The explosion in demand for city and countryside ‘penthouse’ living is proving to be a natural evolution for his company. Inspirit designs are nothing if not attention-grabbing.
‘Our solutions are considered to be innovative because they are about making sure that feeling well is an enjoyable and aesthetically pleasing experience.’
From urban ground floor health rooms to roof-top sun terrace and country estate extensions, the crew’s iconic installations are a heady mix of style and sophistication for the discerning ‘boutique’ generation.
Each project is individually designed to act as an integral part of clients’ existing lifestyles or the ultimate dream that they aspire to.
Such specialist companies are now able to assist clients with a team of designers, financial analysts, planning specialists, architects and audio-visual creators.
Brian Kirk, a leading architect in this sector explains: ‘Our creative teams are continually being pushed to the forefront of design as clients look for innovative equipment that blends style and prestige with perfect ergonomics -the choices are endless.’
Leisure has become such an integral part of life and with homeowners designing their homes to be the all encompassing safe environment for their family, basement developments and new extensions are becoming ever more popular.
With such facilities clients have the added lifestyle choices such as personal training. These offer the enthusiast the opportunity to gain absolute perfection – whether they want to improve their health, lose weight, look sexier or
enjoy life to the full – remember a bottle of Petrus contains a calorie or two!
Mark Perkins, who is undergoing a major residential development in Windsor explains: ‘I wanted to streamline my health and fitness routines to fit in with my lifestyle, my work schedule and personal commitments, especially as I need to make the most of every workout. Designing a facility that was inviting to my family and friends was paramount, together with a home cinema entertainment system that offers an amazing array of sophisticated choices and looks as good as it is easy to use.’
As this market continues to develop and with key issues on children’s health hitting the headlines and being addressed within schools, the home gym takes on an even more important aspect. Our children are the X Box generation and together with technology, fun and interactive activities these are the ways to keep our youngsters involved and healthy.
Whether it becomes an integral part of the luxury house or not, the residential health and fitness facility is for those that believe that space, peace and privacy are the true luxuries for people whose time is valuable.
For more Information contact Inspirit on 01628 672809 Email: marial@inspirit.uk.com http://www.inspirit.uk.com/
summer collection 93
ATHENA: Two-toned, one -piece swimsuit with deep back, €220
MILLA: One-piece strapless swimsuit with deep laced neckline €325
94 summer collection
MORROCAN
HEAT
With terracotta, spice and shades of sand, Cream chooses Eres
swimwear for a sizzling summer
summer collection 95
KIMILIE: One-piece swimsuit with tie around the neck and V-neckline edged with openwork, €250
CELIA: One piece swimsuit in Peau Douce, deep Vneckline, ultra-thin straps at the back, €240
HEATHER-JEISA: White bikini top. Neckline with openwork edging, €130. Bottoms with openwork sides, €110
96 summer collection
RAQUEL: Tangerine one-piece swimsuit with broad straps, square neckline and deep lacing, €320
JANIS: Deep purple and ginger long caftan in very light cotton with broad waist band, €590
PENNY: one-piece swimsuit with rounded neckline and thin halter neck tie €310
For supplier details contact: 00 33 1 55 90 52 90 or visit http://www.eresparis.com/
summer collection 97
THE CLA GAME FAIR
A world class event celebrates its 50th Anniversary at Blenheim Palace,
Woodstock, Oxfordshire Friday 25th – Sunday 27th July, 2008
100 summer collection
AAs we look forward to the summer, we start to plan how we are going to spend it and indeed how we will entertain the children throughout the holidays. So what better than a day celebrating the very best of British heritage. This July our greatest countryside show displaying the epitome of our countryside – traditional and new – will be held at one of our most prestigious heritage estates – Blenheim Palace.
The CLA Game Fair attracts the world’s largest gathering of country sports personalities, professionals and enthusiasts from throughout the UK and abroad. It is here that visitors will find the most comprehensive representation of their favourite country pursuits as well as the most fabulous displays of every aspect of the countryside – and this year the atmosphere and revelry will be at its greatest as the 50th anniversary of the show is celebrated.
Shooting, fishing, gun dogs and falconry are at the core of The Game Fair with displays, world class championships, competitions, tuition, and ‘have a go’ activities to be found throughout the 500 acre site.
LEFT PAGE (FROM TOP TO BOTTOM): World Heritage site Blenheim Palace – the stunning venue for The Game Fair's 50th anniversary; There are endless ‘have a go’ opportunities for children who highly rate a day at The Game Fair - falconry, fly casting and dog training being amongst them BELOW (LEFT TO RIGHT): An entertaining programme of displays and demonstrations including carriage driving; sculptures feature highly in the art and antiques area of the show
However, not only is The CLA Game Fair the annual gathering and eagerly enjoyed social occasion for enthusiasts of country sports, it is also a three day show case for the whole of the countryside, enjoyed by families from all walks of life looking for a fabulous day’s entertainment away from the commercial entertainment of fun fairs and theme parks.
At The Game Fair, visitors will find a host of features which will appeal to all members of the family. The show offers the opportunity to have a go, under expert guidance, at many of the shooting and fishing disciplines, hands on experience with falcons, dogs, horses and ferrets, even the chance to walk away with awards and prizes in archery, target shooting and many other activities. However, if that does not send you racing to Blenheim at the end of July to try all the traditional country sports on offer then take the family and pound the areas of the show that displays the newer activities to be enjoyed in the countryside. Aerial Trekking, bungee trampolining, quad bikes, laser combat, maize, off road driving, wall climbing and exploring nature are a few of the hours of fun to
be had whether you are 5 or 75.
Newer show areas that have grown up at the Game Fair over the last seven years are gardening, horses and food. The equestrian show, aptly called Hooked on Horses introduces newcomers to the many different breeds of horses and their fortes as well as offering advice on how to start riding. An area of the show not to be missed is the food show which features regional and local producers from many areas of the country but will particularly promote the Oxfordshire area. A lively picnic area with music is cleverly laid out in the heart of the Totally Food Show where visitors can sit and enjoy all the samples they have gathered up as they visited the stands.
Tickets for The CLA Game Fair can be ordered in advance online or purchased at the main entrances on arrival. Visit http://www.gamefair.co.uk/ for further information or call 0844 848 0990
GLORIOUS GLENEAGLES
‘T‘The Palace in the Glen’ is the suitably royal description of one of the British Isles’ greatest hotels. A legend set in a magical
location just one hour from Glasgow and one hour from Edinburgh, Gleneagles is most famous as a five star golf resort and a hotel of such splendour and magnificence as can scarcely be imagined.
Having celebrated its 80th Anniversary in 2004,
Gleneagles is set in 850 acres of the most beautiful
scenery in the world, is steeped in Scottish tradition
and hospitality yet enjoys every state of the art
contemporary luxury the most discerning traveller
could wish for. As well as all these riches there is a
beautiful spa and gourmet cuisine to enjoy and
accommodation is nothing short of fabulous.
ABOVE (FROM TOP TO BOTTOM):
In addition to being one of the world’s greatest golf
View of The Dormy House; The stunning evening glow of Gleneagles Hotel resorts, Gleneagles is a member of Connoisseurs
The Palace in the Glen that is Gleneagles Hotel.
Words: Sandy Byrne
Scotland, a world class grouping of properties with authentic Scottish flavour and hospitality. The hotel is designed in the style of an imposing French chateau and its surrounding gracious landscaping inspired by the parks and gardens created by the great Capability Brown.
Luxurious yes, in the grand style, but starchy Gleneagles is not. It has a certain unfussy friendliness and courtesy towards its guests who are made to feel thoroughly at home from the moment of arrival. It might be a very large hotel but you never feel anonymous or anything less than a welcome and important guest at all times.
The hotel stands in the very heart of Scotland almost at its centre, and could be said to epitomise both its heart and its soul in the rolling hills of Perthshire between Perth and Stirling.
summer collection 103
But Gleneagles is less a hotel and more a way of life, having been described variously as ‘the eighth wonder of the world’ and the ‘Riviera in the Highlands.’ Built by the former Caledonian Railway Company with its own railway station, it’s one of Scoltand’s oldest hotels, having opened in 1924.
By the nineteen thirties golfing hotels were all the rage, a ‘playground for leisure and pleasure,’ and by a couple of decades later a fixed part of high society. Following the London season, yachting at Cowes, Polo at Deauville and so forth, society would retreat to Gleneagles for the grouse shooting beginning on the Glorious Twelfth. Yet it wasn’t until 1982 that Gleneagles opened year-round – before that it only opened its doors for the summer.
The hotel’s myriad awards are undoubtedly connected to the world class golf and to the matchless hospitality enjoyed by guests. And while many will instantly connect the name to golf there is much more to offer as well in a stay at Gleneagles. Nonetheless, golf is at its finest here among such stunning scenery and on one of the three courses. To complement the existing King’s and Queen’s courses, in 1993 the £5.9 million PGA Centenary Jack Nicklaus-created course opened, and the Golf Academy in 1994 followed.
Rooms vary from the luxurious to the sumptuous, all 232 rooms and 26 exclusive suites offering a level of comfort and décor that the most exacting guest will find thrilling. Suites offer generous king-size beds and the magnificent Royal Lochnagar Suite has seen visiting Heads of State and other significant figures enjoying its superb sheer luxury with its bedroom, sitting room, guest bathroom, relaxation area, walk-in dressing room, master bathroom and enjoying stunning views across the Gleneagles estate and the rolling hills of Ochil. .
But Gleneagles is less a hotel and more a way of life, having been described variously as ‘the eighth wonder of the world’ and the ‘Riviera in the Highlands.’
ABOVE: The Queen's Course
104 summer collection
Tower Basin in Tinoco Stone Ellipse Bathtub in Ivory Premium Stone Flooring and Steps in Halil Limestone Worktop in Halil Limestone Bespoke Stonework: Limestone Gallery Architects: Studio Dar Building Company: Symm & Co Photography: Chris Gascoigne
bespoke stonework of all kinds 10 new Spirit Suites were opened in July 2007 designed by the renowned designer Amanda Rosa with a contemporary feel, oversized baths and sofas, separate showers and double sinks. There’s even a top floor boardroom if a corporate group takes a number of these suites and wishes to work uninterrupted.
The hotel of course works with all guests to ensure that, with so much choice available, the right rooms are found for individual requirements but all can be assured that the standards across the range of possibilities are always of the very highest attainable. And there is then, of course, the all-important cuisine.
A hotel of this scale would be expected to offer a wide variety of eating options and this is certainly the case at Gleneagles. Whether you’re a hungry golfer at the end of a hard day’s play, a visitor keen to explore the gastronomy of Scotland or a spa guest who wishes to eat healthily, there is absolutely no problem and you’re guaranteed to find superb cuisine in any of a number of restaurants.
The choice is yours and you’re under no pressure to be grand or glamorous unless you would like to be in which case the scope is limitless. Scotland, of course, has some of the finest ingredients in the British Isles including shellfish, Scottish lobster, scallops and sea fish, salmon and then game: grouse and venison are both Gleneagles specialities. As, obviously, is Angus Beef. Haggis – no need to ask!
You might begin your day with a hearty dish of porridge and a kipper or some fresh .
Rarely do you find courses in such glorious locations that are backed up by hotel facilities and standards of such superb quality.
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT:
Whiskey’s; Home Smoked Lobster; Dormy Restaurant with open views across the golf course
106 summer collection
Party packs are available in all sizes starting from 40 guests upwards. A sit down function for 40 guests would include the following:
20’ x 30’ MARQUEE CARPET LIGHTING 40 CHAIRS 4 ROUND TABLES FULLY INSTALLED
ALL OF THIS FOR ONLY £550
HOPE COTTAGE, OUSDEN, NEWMARKET, SUFFOLK CB8 8TY
T: 07831 142946 THE PARTY PACK COMPANY
Party packs are an economic alternative to large marquees, which may be more suitable for confined spaces and smaller functions. The size of the marquee, and the accompanying fixtures and fittings, can be tailored to each individual client, and then a detailed quotation can be supplied.
BELOW (FROM TOP TO BOTTOM):
Braid House room; Fabulous relaxing pool and spa
eggs and then set out for a long hike or game of golf. Returning in time for tea you could sample some Dundee cake or scones with clotted cream. But you need to reserve space for dinner which is a highlight of your stay. Scottish food is only one choice among others, not to mention the depth and range of the hotel’s wine cellars.
Dinner might be taken in the Strathearn restaurant, with its magnificent views over the estate and could be perhaps seared scallops with a fine herb risotto or a tian of Arbroath Smokie followed by a Tournedos of Scottish beef fillet or Scottish lobster.
Alternatively try Andrew Fairlie’s eponymous restaurant, the only 2 Michelin Starred restaurant in Scotland, where the brilliant chef – a Scottish Chef of the Year – offers temptations using supplies from both French markets and local Scottish suppliers. His wonderful signature dish is smoked lobster, created by smoking the lobster shells over old whisky barrels for up to 12 hours. Andrew also offers a fabulous ‘degustation’ menu of seven courses.
Gleneagles is nothing if not flexible, allowing guests to plan their own schedule and in this vein Deseo is a casual, colourful ’Mediterranean Food Market,’ where throughout the day various food stations offer a wonderful variety of dishes with lovely, clean Mediterranean flavours.
There is, of course, no question that many visitors are at Gleneagles primarily for its golf. The PGA Centenary course will host the 40th Ryder Cup in 2014, and offers all you could ask from a day’s golf. And then there are the 6,741-yard King’s Course, and the 5,965-yard Queen’s. Condé Nast readers voted Gleneagles the best place in Scotland to play golf and it’s not difficult to see why. Rarely do you find courses in such glorious locations that are backed up by hotel facilities and standards of such superb quality.
108 summer collection
At the Golf Academy players of all levels of ability are able to improve their game with the advice and help of highly qualified instructors, and there are special Golf Academy breaks available as well as Tuition Breaks. But just in case you don’t happen to play golf yet still relish the great outdoors in such a beautiful place. Gleneagles offers just about every possible activity in its place. Walking and hiking, fishing, off-road driving and even a gun dog school are available. And if you don’t want to exercise, why not take one of the hotel’s superb chauffeur-driven tours of the area, which are very popular with first time visitors to Scotland.
Gleneagles also offers year-round spa breaks in its fabulous spa with fully equipped gym, pools, Turkish bath and a lovely range of treatments. In fact, Gleneagles is the hotel for all seasons in the twenty first century: seamlessly blending all that is best of its classic traditions with the state of the art in contemporary luxury hotels.
ABOVE (FROM TOP TO BOTTOM):
The bar; Delicious cuisine from the Strathearn restaurant
The Gleneagles Hotel, Auchterarder, Perthshire, Scotland PH3 1NF +44 (0) 1764 662231 http://www.gleneagles.com/
summer collection 109
ARCHITECTURE IN GLASS ARCHITECTURE IN GLASS Designers and manufacturers of handmade Conservatories, Orangeries and Poolhouses. http://www.glasshouses.com/ design@glasshouses.com The Workshop Blacknest Hampshire GU34 4PX
For your inspirational portfolio please call 01420 520009 GENEVA ON A SATURDAY MORNING OR MONACO ON A TUESDAY NIGHT?
The effect of leaving the UK and the new taxation of non-domicilaries. Written by Richard M Berns
AAlistair Darling is not the ‘Darling’ of the “non-domicile” community having changed the tax benefits of UK residents who are not domiciled in the UK, at a stroke. To many it is an impulsive piece of legislation which has not endeared him to the non-domiciled members of these islands.
The UK economy has benefitted enormously from the thousands of wealthy individuals who have moved to the UK as a result of its “special tax status”. Will this economic drive continue, or will this section of the population, or a large part of it, decide to find a new welcoming home in Geneva or perhaps Monaco? The tax net is tightening everywhere and as the heading in this article implies, would the average person prefer to spend a Saturday vegetating in Geneva, or perhaps a boring Tuesday evening in Monaco? After all, they probably came to London, to live in the “Capital of the World”, with all of its associated lifestyle benefits.
By way of overview, the new tax regime will come into force on 6th April 2008 and, whilst there are substantial changes to the taxation system in relation to remittance of income and gains, there appear to have been no changes to the IHT (Inheritance Tax) rules. There also appears to be no change to the general legal concept of domicile under the current rules. At the present time, an individual who is both resident and domiciled in the UK is taxed on his worldwide income and capital gains. An individual who is UK resident, but is not UK domiciled is taxed only on his non-UK source income and capital gains if it is remitted to the UK (“the Remittance Basis”). An individual is UK resident if he spends 183 or more days in the UK in any one year, or 91 days or more on average in the last 4 years.
The rules applied by the Revenue were to disregard days of arrival and relevant departure, but that will change after 6 April 2008. The test will be by reference to nights spent in the United Kingdom; the day of departure will effectively not be counted.
UK resident non-domiciliaries have in the past been able to remit capital tax-free to the United Kingdom. Often the capital was created by “source-ceasing” rules, and foreign savings and investment income would not be taxed even when remitted to the United Kingdom. For example, a bank would close a deposit account on which interest was being earned at the end of the UK tax year and then transfer the capital to a new bank account and then the interest to the UK, in the following tax year. The amount would not be taxable, as the source of the interest no longer existed. These “source ceasing” rules will no longer apply and so it is absolutely essential that in the future, only “capital” is remitted to the UK and not funds which represent either income or capital gains in the hands of the recipient.
From 6 April 2008, non-domiciled individuals who have been resident in the United Kingdom for seven of the previous nine tax years will be subject to the new tax regime from the start of the new tax year. For this purpose, a part tax year will count as a whole year.
The rules also apply to those claiming the Remittance Basis if they are not ordinarily resident in the United Kingdom. Such individuals will have a choice between either paying £30,000 per annum to enjoy continued use of the Remittance Basis, but they will would not, as a result, be able to claim personal allowances or any capital gains tax exemptions, or alternatively, they would
have to declare and pay tax on their worldwide income and gains. Therefore, those who are likely to have tax gains or income arising outside the United Kingdom should seek immediate advice as to whether they should register for the “Remittance Basic Charge” (“RBC”). Only those having less than £2,000 of overseas income and gains need not pay the charge.
If the “RBC” basis of taxation is elected an individual would become liable to pay tax only on remittances to the United Kingdom and property brought into the United Kingdom and paid for out of income. Also services derived from relevant foreign income would be treated as remitted. Gifts of income to certain connected parties will also be caught. As the “source ceasing” loophole has now been closed, it is essential to ensure that only “clean capital” is remitted to the UK and not amounts which represent income or capital gains which otherwise will be taxable at the relevant rate in the United Kingdom.
There are also changes in the rules relating to settlements and offshore trusts and participators in a non-resident company which has five or fewer shareholders. For example, it may be that a home is owned by a foreign company which, in turn, is owned by an offshore trust. In future, a sale of that property may give rise to a capital gains tax liability (note the new flat rate of 18%). In certain circumstances it might be sensible to re-base the value of property assets in the United Kingdom for capital gains tax purposes as at the end of this tax year.
Take for example, a property is purchased for £1 million which, at 6 April 2008, is worth £6 million, and the property is sold in 2 years time for £8 million. A tax liability will arise based on the benefit to
the individual of living in that property, broadly based on the rental value of the property over the number of years an individual has resided there after 5 April 2008. This “benefit in kind” would be taxable as a gain at the new rate of 18%. For example, if the rental value was estimated at £100,000 per annum, following a disposal based on 2 years’ occupancy, there would be a tax charge of 18% on £200,000 viz £36,000.
The trustees, would make an election to use the re-based value of the property at 5 April 2008 for the capital gain calculation. The gain of £2,000,000 would be matched by the £200,000 “benefits in kind”. The balance of” £1.8 million, would be subject to a further capital gains tax liability at 18%, but only if the capital gain following the sale, was remitted back to the UK.
It might be possible to remit “other capital” if another property was required to be purchased, but at the time of writing this article the Finance Bill has not been published. This will have to be reviewed later when it is clearer what the definition of “Capital” might be under the new rules.
As mentioned earlier, the IHT rules appear not to be affected by the new legislation. Therefore under current proposals, ownership of an asset in a foreign company or trust will not give rise to IHT on the death of the beneficial owner, nor the deemed beneficial owner of the company or trust – at least for the time being.
The answer is that all non-domiciliaries and trust owners should speak to their tax advisers to ensure they plan properly for the future. Things may not be as bad as first thought, but to ensure vegetating in Geneva or Monaco can be avoided, seek professional advice.
Although Monaco in the spring does not sound so bad to me!
The contents of this article are intended for general information purposes only and shallPiper Smith Watton LLP not be deemed to be, or constitute legal advice. Piper Smith Watton LLP cannot accept
29 Great Peter Street London SW1P 3LW
responsibility for any loss as a result of acts or
E: richard.berns@pswlaw.co.uk W: http://www.pswlaw.co.uk/ omissions taken in respect of this article. Accommodation: Lounge, dining room, family room, kitchen, study, 5 bedrooms two of which have en-suite facilities, family bathroom, shower room. A substantial newly built family home offering brand new fittings to include a quality fitted kitchen with built-in appliances, luxurious sanitary ware and the latest double glazing and central heating. The development is being undertaken by Carrington Fox who have an excellent reputation for building quality property in good locations. Hinchley Wood Price on Application 32 Station Approach, Hinchley Wood, Surrey, KT10 0SR 0208 398 0265 http://www.gascoignes.co.uk/ A brand new development of just two 5 bedroom, 5 bathroom detached luxury dwellings. Built to an exacting high standard and design. The properties will benefit from double pyramid roofed and stone pillared open garaging, with gardens to the rear leading down to the River Hogsmill with views of woodland beyond. Malden Manor Station is close by as are the town centres of New Malden and Kingston upon Thames. Worcester Park From £1,350,000 Accommodation: Entrance hall, drawing room, kitchen/dining room, study, master bedroom with en-suite bathroom and dressing room, four further bedrooms all with en-suites Accommodation: Lounge, dining room, family room, kitchen, study, 5 bedrooms two of which have en-suite facilities, family bathroom, shower room. A substantial newly built family home offering brand new fittings to include a quality fitted kitchen with built-in appliances, luxurious sanitary ware and the latest double glazing and central heating. The development is being undertaken by Carrington Fox who have an excellent reputation for building quality property in good locations. Hinchley Wood Price on Application 32 Station Approach, Hinchley Wood, Surrey, KT10 0SR 0208 398 0265 http://www.gascoignes.co.uk/ A brand new development of just two 5 bedroom, 5 bathroom detached luxury dwellings. Built to an exacting high standard and design. The properties will benefit from double pyramid roofed and stone pillared open garaging, with gardens to the rear leading down to the River Hogsmill with views of woodland beyond. Malden Manor Station is close by as are the town centres of New Malden and Kingston upon Thames. Worcester Park From £1,350,000 Accommodation: Entrance hall, drawing room, kitchen/dining room, study, master bedroom with en-suite bathroom and dressing room, four further bedrooms all with en-suites 112 residential sales.
Be guided by the experts...
Piper Smith Watton’s Property Team recognise that property is a highly competitive and dynamic business.
Our solicitors provide a fast and effective response assisting on all types of property projects, often co-ordinating the input of other professionals to help you achieve your objectives.
We offer expert advice to investors, developers and businesses on investment sales and purchases, property developments, all areas of landlord and tenant work and on-shore and off-shore funding and planning law as well as many other aspects of property work.
Our solicitors take a pro-active role in assisting on all types of property structures from buying and selling to the much larger and more complicated projects. We maintain simplicity where required but adopt more complex arrangements if circumstances dictate.
PROPERTY CONTACTS:
Richard Berns: richard.berns@pswlaw.co.uk Stephen Solomons: stephen.solomons@pswlaw.co.uk Mark Hiley: mark.hiley@pswlaw.co.uk
Piper Smith Watton LLP 29 Great Peter Street London SW1P 3LW
T: 020 7222 9900 W: http://www.pswlaw.co.uk/ Commercial Property Corporate & Commercial Dispute Resolution Employment Estate Planning Family Intellectual Property Residential Property Retail Property Travel & Aviation Wills Trusts & Probate
COMMERCIAL CREATIVE COMMITTED TO YOUR GOALS
Imposing modern family home Imposing modern family home Gascoigne Billinghurst are delighted to offer this imposing and impeccably presented 5 bedroom 4 bathroom detached family home. This modern and stylish home is located in a prestigious non-estate location within walking distance of Esher's bustling shops and restaurants and within easy access of the many favoured local schools.
Esher
£6,250 pcm
Accommodation:
Entrance porch, entrance hall with stone tile flooring, open plan kitchen/family room, utility room, lounge with feature fireplace, study/playroom, cloakroom, 5 double bedrooms with 3 en-suite bath and shower rooms, large rear garden.
Clive House, 2 The Parade Claygate, Surrey, KT10 0NU 01372 462323 http://www.gascoignes.co.uk/
114 residential lettings.
Chesham Place, SW1
Quintessentially Belgravia 24 Curzon Street, London W1J 7TF 020 7499 7722 http://www.beauchamp.co.uk/
Accommodation:
First Floor: Entrance hall, drawing room, library/reception, formal dining room, guest cloakroom, fully fitted kitchen/breakfast room, serving room, utility, serving area, master bedroom with private sitting room and en-suite bathroom, en-suite shower room and 3 en-suite dressing rooms, guest bedroom with en-suite bathroom, bedroom 3 with en-suite shower room, master bathroom Lower Ground Floor: Entrance hall, sitting room, kitchen, master bedroom, bedroom 2, 2 bathrooms
Quintessentially Belgravia, Chesham Place has been home to prime ministers, ambassadors, statesmen and aristocrats for more than a century and a half. Externally, these grade II Listed Thomas Cubitt buildings are of great architectural distinction and now rate amongst the most sort after residential units in central London, forming part of the Chesham Place Estate.
This exceptional first floor lateral apartment is located in one of London’s most prestigious addresses. Its stately reception rooms and high ceilings complement its many distinctive period features. Leading from the entrance hall is a magnificent double-aspect drawing room. Opening from the library is the romantic dining room ideal for entertaining on a grand scale. Also included in the sale is a 2 bedroom 2 bathroom self-contained flat.
Price on Application
Leasehold plus share of freehold.
116 residential sales.
117
A stunning, air conditioned, recently refurbished maisonette occupying the top 2 floors of this stucco fronted Grade II Listed period building. There is a 25 ft drawing room opening onto a dining room and direct access from the passenger lift. Number 58 is situated on south western side of Eaton Place and benefits from proximity to the fashionable shops, restaurants and cafes of Knightsbridge and Chelsea. Eaton Place, SW1 Stylish Belgravia Pied a Terre Accommodation: Entrance hall, drawing room, dining room, small study area, kitchen, master bedroom with en-suite dressing area and bathroom, guest bedroom with en-suite bathroom, use of utility/store room on common parts landing, air conditioning, access to flat roof (not demised), American oak flooring, B&O piped sound 24 Curzon Street, London W1J 7TF 020 7499 7722 http://www.beauchamp.co.uk/ £3,495,000 Leasehold 116 years remaining A stunning, air conditioned, recently refurbished maisonette occupying the top 2 floors of this stucco fronted Grade II Listed period building. There is a 25 ft drawing room opening onto a dining room and direct access from the passenger lift. Number 58 is situated on south western side of Eaton Place and benefits from proximity to the fashionable shops, restaurants and cafes of Knightsbridge and Chelsea. Eaton Place, SW1 Stylish Belgravia Pied a Terre Accommodation: Entrance hall, drawing room, dining room, small study area, kitchen, master bedroom with en-suite dressing area and bathroom, guest bedroom with en-suite bathroom, use of utility/store room on common parts landing, air conditioning, access to flat roof (not demised), American oak flooring, B&O piped sound 24 Curzon Street, London W1J 7TF 020 7499 7722 http://www.beauchamp.co.uk/ £3,495,000 Leasehold 116 years remaining 118 residential sales.
This 5 bedroom, sixth floor, apartment is found in the highly desirable location of Portland Place, moments from the heart of the West End with Oxford Street, Soho and Regents Park within easy reach. The property boasts a balcony offering views over Portland Place and features sizeable living accommodation throughout. Portland Place,W1 £2,250,000 Leasehold residential sales. 119 Portland potential Accommodation: Entrance hall, drawing room, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, guest cloakroom, master bedroom, ensuite bathroom, 4 further bedrooms, 1 further bathroom, 1 further shower room, balcony. St Johns Wood, London NW8 020 7722 9793 http://www.beauchamp.co.uk/ This 5 bedroom, sixth floor, apartment is found in the highly desirable location of Portland Place, moments from the heart of the West End with Oxford Street, Soho and Regents Park within easy reach. The property boasts a balcony offering views over Portland Place and features sizeable living accommodation throughout. Portland Place,W1 £2,250,000 Leasehold residential sales. 119 Portland potential Accommodation: Entrance hall, drawing room, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, guest cloakroom, master bedroom, ensuite bathroom, 4 further bedrooms, 1 further bathroom, 1 further shower room, balcony. St Johns Wood, London NW8 020 7722 9793 http://www.beauchamp.co.uk/ Situated on the second floor of this well run block is a spacious 3-4 bedroom apartment extending to some 1934 sq ft. Park Towers is a fully portered block located on Brick Street in fashionable Mayfair close to Piccadilly. Park Towers, Mayfair,W1 £3,250,000 Leasehold Accommodation: Entrance hall, cloakroom/shower room, reception room, dining room/bedroom 4, kitchen, 3 further bedrooms, all with en-suites, 24 hour porterage, passenger lift, air conditioning. 24 Curzon Street, London W1J 7TF 020 7499 7722 http://www.beauchamp.co.uk/ 120 residential sales. Close to Hyde Park Situated on the second floor of this well run block is a spacious 3-4 bedroom apartment extending to some 1934 sq ft. Park Towers is a fully portered block located on Brick Street in fashionable Mayfair close to Piccadilly. Park Towers, Mayfair,W1 £3,250,000 Leasehold Accommodation: Entrance hall, cloakroom/shower room, reception room, dining room/bedroom 4, kitchen, 3 further bedrooms, all with en-suites, 24 hour porterage, passenger lift, air conditioning. 24 Curzon Street, London W1J 7TF 020 7499 7722 http://www.beauchamp.co.uk/ 120 residential sales. Close to Hyde Park An elegant and well presented ground floor flat offering some 1270 sq ft with high ceilings at this internationally renowned address. Eaton Place is located within a short walk of Sloane Square and Knightsbridge. Eaton Place, SW1 £2,200,000 Leasehold Grand drawing room Accommodation: Entrance hall, reception room, kitchen, master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, guest bedroom with en-suite bathroom. 24 Curzon Street, London W1J 7TF 020 7499 7722 http://www.beauchamp.co.uk/ An elegant and well presented ground floor flat offering some 1270 sq ft with high ceilings at this internationally renowned address. Eaton Place is located within a short walk of Sloane Square and Knightsbridge. Eaton Place, SW1 £2,200,000 Leasehold Grand drawing room Accommodation: Entrance hall, reception room, kitchen, master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, guest bedroom with en-suite bathroom. 24 Curzon Street, London W1J 7TF 020 7499 7722 http://www.beauchamp.co.uk/ 122 residential sales.
SPECIALISTS IN HIGH QUALITY, BESPOKE HOME AND LUXURY INTERIORS
BESPOKE HOMES INTERIORS REFURBISHMENTS CONVERSIONS EXTENSIONS TEL/FAX 01344 775679 MOBILE 07903 367684 EMAIL info@spacecubed.co.uk
http://www.spacecubed.co.uk/
Eagle Wharf,Grosvenor Road,SW1
£1,750,000 Leasehold
Stunning river views 24 Curzon Street, London W1J 7TF 020 7499 7722 http://www.beauchamp.co.uk/
Fabulous views of the Thames, contemporary style and technology combine to make this a highly desirable flat. Together with air cooling, 24 hour concierge service and CCTV, 11 person passenger lift and residents’ gym, this property offers a secure and stylish place to live. There is also an underground parking space and a storage room.
Accommodation:
Entrance hall, drawing/dining room with balcony, fitted kitchen, master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, guest bedroom with en-suite bathroom, bedroom 3 with en-suite shower room, study, guest cloakroom, amenities, underground parking space, storage room, air cooling, 24 hr concierge service and CCTV, passenger lift, residents gym, balcony.
124 residential sales.
£895 pcm
A modern 1 bedroom apartment forming part of this traditionally styled prestige development, located in a highly convenient and sought-after position within a stone's throw of Woking town centre, station and park. The apartment is furnished to a high standard
Woking
Accommodation:
Communal entrance with lift, private entrance hallway with storage, master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, lounge/dining room with balcony and French doors, fully fitted kitchen with a range of appliances.
West Byfleet
£2,700 pcm
Accommodation:
The house benefits from 4 large double bedrooms, a good size family bathroom and shower room. Downstairs the property has a large modern kitchen, a substantial lounge/dining room with additional second reception room. Other rooms include an office and a utility room with ample space in the garage and outside the property for parking.
A large semi-detached family home situated in the sought after area of West Byfleet. This property is ideally located within walking distance to West Byfleet train (Approximately 45 Minutes to London Waterloo), with local shops and restaurants a stones throw away.
Accommodation: Entrance hall with understairs storage cupboard, modern fully fitted kitchen with built-in appliances, large double aspect lounge with wood flooring, large double aspect master bedroom with built in wardrobes, second double bedroom, bathroom with corner bath and separate shower cubicle, patio and garden area, use of tennis court, parking A lovely 2 double bedroom cottage set in a wonderful location with stunning views across the local countryside. The property provides spacious accommodation with large double aspect lounge, 2 double bedrooms and modern kitchen and bathroom. There is a private patio area and further lawned garden and use of a tennis court on the grounds. Council tax included. Sutton Green £1,395 pcm 5 Church Path, Woking, Surrey. GU21 6EJ 01483 725500 http://www.gascoignes.co.uk/ 126 residential lettings. Rookery Barns LtdTraditionally constructed timber framed garages and outbuildings Your local supplier of bespoke oak framed barn style garages, outbuildings and home offices Rookery Barns LtdTraditionally constructed timber framed garages and outbuildings Your local supplier of bespoke oak framed barn style garages, outbuildings and home offices Hundreds of locally completed buildings
Our show barn and office can be viewed at Oakhanger on the Surrey/Hampshire border We offer a full service from design and planning to completion
info@rookerybarns.com
01420 488870
http://www.rookerybarns.com/
Pyrford
Accommodation:
Entrance hallway, living room, dining room, kitchen, 2 double bedrooms, bathroom with shower, off-road parking, expansive mature gardens.
Woking
£1,350 pcm
Accommodation:
The property comprises of cloakroom, large study/family room, living room, dining room, fitted kitchen, patio doors to sunny garden. Upstairs there are 3 bedrooms, master with en-suite and family bathroom
A beautifully presented 3 bedroom modern house within this private development within a few minutes walk of the town centre and the mainline train station. This house has a private garden, plenty of parking.
£1,150 pcm
2 bedroom Victorian cottage situated in semi-rural surroundings, this secluded plot has easy access to transport links in both Woking and West Byfleet. It also has local shops within easy walking distance.
Accommodation: Entrance hall, reception room, open-plan kitchen, large double master bedroom, double second bedroom, modern bathroom . Spacious, luxury 2 bedroom,1 bathroom second floor apartment built in 2006 in the heart of Woking town centre within a short walk of the mainline station and shops. Woking £1,050 pcm 5 Church Path, Woking, Surrey. GU21 6EJ 01483 725500 http://www.gascoignes.co.uk/ 128 residential lettings. Gascoigne Billinghurst, 8 High Street, Cobham KT11 3DY Tel: 01932 860030 Email: land@gascoignes.co.uk Does your property have development potential? Could you sell some of your garden? Are you currently thinking of submitting a planning application? The land and new homes team at Gascoigne Billinghurst are able to advise you on how best to move forward and indeed whether or not the planning gain will be the best route forward to maximise the value of your home/property. Our knowledgable team would be delighted to sit down and give FREE advice to land owners both large and small. If you want to achieve the maximum potential from your property/land call us today on 01932 860030 to discuss your requirements further. Planning • Land • Plots • New Build • Potential • Development Helping you develop the true value of your land! Gascoigne Billinghurst, 8 High Street, Cobham KT11 3DY Tel: 01932 860030 Email: land@gascoignes.co.uk Does your property have development potential? Could you sell some of your garden? Are you currently thinking of submitting a planning application? The land and new homes team at Gascoigne Billinghurst are able to advise you on how best to move forward and indeed whether or not the planning gain will be the best route forward to maximise the value of your home/property. Our knowledgable team would be delighted to sit down and give FREE advice to land owners both large and small. If you want to achieve the maximum potential from your property/land call us today on 01932 860030 to discuss your requirements further. Planning • Land • Plots • New Build • Potential • Development Helping you develop the true value of your land! 24 Curzon Street, London W1J 7TF 020 7499 7722 http://www.beauchamp.co.uk/
Beautiful Belgravia West Halkin Street, SW1
£1,700,000 Freehold
West Halkin Street is wonderfully located to give access to all the amenities including designer shops, restaurants and bars of Knightsbridge, Belgravia, Sloane Street and Chelsea. The property is an elegant 1st floor apartment with high ceilings, comprising drawing room with front aspect french doors onto private balcony and coal effect fireplace, kitchen, master bedroom with fitted wardrobes and en-suite bathroom, second bedroom and shower room
Accommodation:
Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, kitchen, bedroom 2, shower room, drawing room, high ceilings, balcony, central heating (not tested)
130 residential sales.
You can
benefit
from our existing
knowledge
http://www.gascoignes.co.uk/
If you are thinking of moving, ask us for a FREE market appraisal of your home, today! Residential Sales • Lettings & Management • International Property Sales • Land & Planning
To view a full selection of the properties we have available visit http://www.gascoignes.co.uk/
Claygate Office 01372 462323 • Cobham Office 01932 588288 Woking Office 01438 725500 • Hinchley Wood Office 020 8398 0265
BEAUCHAMP ESTATES RENTALS
IIn addition to the busy sales and investment departments, Beauchamp Estates also has a thriving rental department which specialises in renting both flats and houses in all central London locations such as Belgravia, Mayfair, Knightsbridge, Chelsea, South Kensington, Kensington, St.
John’s Wood, Hampstead etc.
We will help you to relocate to
London either on a short or long term
basis. Indeed we can find you a
serviced apartment for just a few
weeks if required or a long term let if
you are relocating to London.
Prices for properties in prime
central London locations range from
approximately £500 per week for a
modest one bedroom flat up to
£25,000 per week for an amazing,
state of the art house such as Park
Street in Mayfair which we are
currently marketing.
... Beauchamp Estates has been established for 29 years...
Svetlana Shcholokova, who has joined our Rental department, speaks fluent Russian, Ukrainian and English. She is also busy learning Italian to add to her linguistic skills. Lana, as she is known in the office, graduated from Kiev National Taras Shevchenko University and has a Bachelors degree in economics and finance.
“I joined Beauchamp Estates about a year ago; initially to help out with reception and to help translate for Beauchamp Estates’ Russian clients. I was able to build on the trust I established with these clients very quickly and so began my career in the exciting world of rentals in central London. I find the job challenging and absolutely love meeting the variety of nationalities passing through Beauchamp Estates’ doors on a daily basis. Being a Russian speaker is obviously an advantage but Beauchamp Estates deals with people from all round the globe and this makes each day very different and something to look forward to”.
Svetlana will offer you a bespoke service tailored to your needs. Whether looking for a studio flat for a
SVETLANA SHCHOLOKOVA
few weeks or a long term rental from Belgravia to Hampstead, Svetlana will organise a tour of suitable properties for you and personally accompany you to the viewings.
Beauchamp Estates has been established for 29 years and its contact list includes multi national corporations, banks, embassies, high net worth individuals, monarchs, oligarchs, celebrities and relocation companies.
Our enthusiastic and highly experienced team are able to advise on all matters of property be it sales acquisitions, residential and commercial investments or rentals.
If you are considering renting your property now or in the near future or are looking to relocate to or within London please contact Svetlana at our Mayfair office on +44 20 7499 7722 or by email lana@beauchamp.co.uk
132 http://www.beauchamp.co.uk/
No 10 Park Street, Mayfair is a magnificent Gothic revival residence and mews created and designed by the international award winning team of Paul Davies London.
Close to Hyde Park, the Dorchester hotel and some of the most exclusive shops in London, the house offers unrivalled glamour and sophistication.
Available to rent at £25,000 per week
Kitchens Y Bathrooms Y Architectural Design
To View Our Portfolio Please Visit http://www.design-republic.net/
Telephone: 01638 676 750 Email: info@design-republic.net 134 residential lettings. Chesterfield House,W1 £1,200 per week Accommodation: Spacious reception room, dining room, kitchen and 3 bedrooms, one bathroom (en-suite), 1 further bathroom, 1 guest cloakroom en-suite. Unfurnished. A conveniently located apartment in this highly desirable portered building in the heart of Mayfair. Just a short walk to Hyde Park and the amenities of Berkeley Square and Piccadilly. Lancaster Gate, W2 Newly refurbished, this stunning apartment facing Hyde Park has been refurbished and interior designed to the highest standard. Eaton Place, SW1 Accommodation: The flat offers a magnificent drawing room, kitchen and 2 double bedrooms with 2 en-suite bathrooms. A spectacular and spacious lateral ground floor flat, which has been newly decorated throughout, situated in this popular Belgravia location. The amenities of Sloane Square and Knightsbridge are easily accessible. £1,500 per week Accommodation: Integrated A.V. system throughout and climate control, drawing room, dining room, study area, kitchen/family room, 5 bedrooms (4 en-suite bathrooms), 1 further shower room, guest cloakroom, terrace, 1 off-street parking space, caretaker. £7,000 per week 24 Curzon Street, London W1J 7TF 020 7499 7722 http://www.beauchamp.co.uk/ Lancaster Mews, W2 £1,350 per week Accommodation: Spacious reception room, 2 double bedrooms with 2 en-suite bathrooms. The house also features a private terrace and integral garage. Furnished/Unfurnished. A stunning refurbished, contemporary style mews house situated behind Lancaster Gate. Immaculately presented it, extends to some 1,484 sq ft. Chesterfield House,W1 £1,200 per week Accommodation: Spacious reception room, dining room, kitchen and 3 bedrooms, one bathroom (en-suite), 1 further bathroom, 1 guest cloakroom en-suite. Unfurnished. A conveniently located apartment in this highly desirable portered building in the heart of Mayfair. Just a short walk to Hyde Park and the amenities of Berkeley Square and Piccadilly. Lancaster Gate, W2 Newly refurbished, this stunning apartment facing Hyde Park has been refurbished and interior designed to the highest standard. Eaton Place, SW1 Accommodation: The flat offers a magnificent drawing room, kitchen and 2 double bedrooms with 2 en-suite bathrooms. A spectacular and spacious lateral ground floor flat, which has been newly decorated throughout, situated in this popular Belgravia location. The amenities of Sloane Square and Knightsbridge are easily accessible. £1,500 per week Accommodation: Integrated A.V. system throughout and climate control, drawing room, dining room, study area, kitchen/family room, 5 bedrooms (4 en-suite bathrooms), 1 further shower room, guest cloakroom, terrace, 1 off-street parking space, caretaker. £7,000 per week 24 Curzon Street, London W1J 7TF 020 7499 7722 http://www.beauchamp.co.uk/ Lancaster Mews, W2 £1,350 per week Accommodation: Spacious reception room, 2 double bedrooms with 2 en-suite bathrooms. The house also features a private terrace and integral garage. Furnished/Unfurnished. A stunning refurbished, contemporary style mews house situated behind Lancaster Gate. Immaculately presented it, extends to some 1,484 sq ft. GASCOIGNE BILLINGHURST .developed an extremely strong Russian client list. Instead of waiting for Russian buyers to walk through the door, Group Managing Director Ian Davies and Managing Partner Stuart Cole set about developing their business 5 years ago by visiting Moscow and getting to know potential clients there first. After visits to Russia, establishing that trust has brought them many multi-million pound property sales. It has also made them the rising stars of ultra-exclusive residential enclaves such as St George’s Hill in Weybridge and Wentworth in West Surrey, and of course the Fairmile area of Cobham, which is their heartland. Offering a complete bespoke package to sellers and buyers – and that means superb ongoing service once the sale itself is completed – can mean anything from picking up a potential client from the airport or their hotel in London and spending the whole day with them, showing them hand-picked properties, to organising everything from helicopter transpor for viewings to thorough briefings on schools or even hiring gardeners and pool attendants. You won’t always hear about the proper negotiate in St George’s Hill, for instance – when it comes to negotiating deals in this market segment, discretion is the byword and homes can c hands before word has even g they were coming onto the mark But because of their contacts and all-round service Billinghurst now have those all-important, recession-proof buyers, giving them a vibrant mark whatever the economic weather Proof positive of this can be seen in ho often they are now the first choice ag marketing exclusive developments. J the spectacular 12,000 square foot T the £10 million dream home due for completion in 2 years’ time, with spectacular views of St George’s Hill golf course. But it’s not all about properties in the tens of millions Gascoigne Billinghurst are just as concerned to get it right for the more traditional vendor. You get the first hint of this the moment you walk into their modern, superbly designed offices, whose redesign and refurbishment Ian Davies saw as a key investment. Ian has also retained the services of a specialist training consultant to develop his employees’ knowledge and customer care skills on an ongoing basis. TRUST, CONFIDENCE, INSPIRATION You won’t always hear about the property sales Gascoigne Billinghurst negotiate in St George’s Hill, for instance – when it comes to negotiating deals in this market segment, discretion is the byword and homes can change hands before word has even got out that they were coming onto the market IAN DAVIES, MANAGING DIRECTOR, GASCOIGNES GROUP GASCOIGNE BILLINGHURST .developed an extremely strong Russian client list. Instead of waiting for Russian buyers to walk through the door, Group Managing Director Ian Davies and Managing Partner Stuart Cole set about developing their business 5 years ago by visiting Moscow and getting to know potential clients there first. After visits to Russia, establishing that trust has brought them many multi-million pound property sales. It has also made them the rising stars of ultra-exclusive residential enclaves such as St George’s Hill in Weybridge and Wentworth in West Surrey, and of course the Fairmile area of Cobham, which is their heartland. Offering a complete bespoke package to sellers and buyers – and that means superb ongoing service once the sale itself is completed – can mean anything from picking up a potential client from the airport or their hotel in London and spending the whole day with them, showing them hand-picked properties, to organising everything from helicopter transpor for viewings to thorough briefings on schools or even hiring gardeners and pool attendants. You won’t always hear about the proper negotiate in St George’s Hill, for instance – when it comes to negotiating deals in this market segment, discretion is the byword and homes can c hands before word has even g they were coming onto the mark But because of their contacts and all-round service Billinghurst now have those all-important, recession-proof buyers, giving them a vibrant mark whatever the economic weather Proof positive of this can be seen in ho often they are now the first choice ag marketing exclusive developments. J the spectacular 12,000 square foot T the £10 million dream home due for completion in 2 years’ time, with spectacular views of St George’s Hill golf course. But it’s not all about properties in the tens of millions Gascoigne Billinghurst are just as concerned to get it right for the more traditional vendor. You get the first hint of this the moment you walk into their modern, superbly designed offices, whose redesign and refurbishment Ian Davies saw as a key investment. Ian has also retained the services of a specialist training consultant to develop his employees’ knowledge and customer care skills on an ongoing basis. TRUST, CONFIDENCE, INSPIRATION You won’t always hear about the property sales Gascoigne Billinghurst negotiate in St George’s Hill, for instance – when it comes to negotiating deals in this market segment, discretion is the byword and homes can change hands before word has even got out that they were coming onto the market IAN DAVIES, MANAGING DIRECTOR, GASCOIGNES GROUP 136 http://www.gascoignes.co.uk/
http://www.gascoignes.co.uk/
lettings & property management
Our tenant sourcing is blooming marvellous!
Corporate and private tenants for short and long term rentals. Managing properties, vacant and let. ARLA membership and qualified. May we let your property? lettings@gascoignes.co.uk Claygate 01372 462323 Cobham 01932 588 299 Woking 01483 725500 Maidenhead - Glasgow - Dublin 28 672809 nspirit.uk.com .inspirit.uk.com e of the art health and fitness e home that combine y with pure technology. Maidenhead - Glasgow - Dublin 28 672809 nspirit.uk.com .inspirit.uk.com e of the art health and fitness e home that combine y with pure technology. CLASSICAL
CONTEMPORARY
INDIVIDUAL
INNOVATIVE
FURNISHING • BATHROOMS • KITCHENS • CINEMA ROOMS • REFURBISHMENT t 01932 865677 e info@sabrinainteriors.co.uk http://www.sabrinainteriors.co.uk/
Accommodation: Entrance hall, large lounge, fitted kitchen/breakfast room, utility room, study/office, family room/playroom, cloakroom, master bedroom with en-suite bathroom and separate shower, 2 further double bedrooms 1 with en-suite shower room, single bedroom, family bathroom, spacious rear garden. A 4 bedroom 3 bathroom Townhouse in this Mews style gated development. This property is located close to Esher Station and shops. This property features integrated audio system, modern fitted kitchen and integral garage. There are stunning views over Sandown Race Course from the balcony at the rear of the property. Gascoigne Billinghurst are delighted to offer this well presented delightful detached 4 bedroom 3 bathroom family home. Set in a sought-after location, the spacious home has undergone many improvements, and is located within walking distance of the local Station and Village shops. Esher £2,700 pcm Claygate £4,500 pcm Accommodation: 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, entrance hall, cloakroom/shower room, lounge/dining room with French doors leading to balcony overlooking Sandown Racecourse, modern fitted kitchen with breakfast bar and fitted audio system, master bedroom with en-suite shower room, rear garden. Clive House, 2 The Parade Claygate, Surrey, KT10 0NU 01372 462323 http://www.gascoignes.co.uk/ 140 residential lettings. Accommodation: Entrance hall, large lounge, fitted kitchen/breakfast room, utility room, study/office, family room/playroom, cloakroom, master bedroom with en-suite bathroom and separate shower, 2 further double bedrooms 1 with en-suite shower room, single bedroom, family bathroom, spacious rear garden. A 4 bedroom 3 bathroom Townhouse in this Mews style gated development. This property is located close to Esher Station and shops. This property features integrated audio system, modern fitted kitchen and integral garage. There are stunning views over Sandown Race Course from the balcony at the rear of the property. Gascoigne Billinghurst are delighted to offer this well presented delightful detached 4 bedroom 3 bathroom family home. Set in a sought-after location, the spacious home has undergone many improvements, and is located within walking distance of the local Station and Village shops. Esher £2,700 pcm Claygate £4,500 pcm Accommodation: 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, entrance hall, cloakroom/shower room, lounge/dining room with French doors leading to balcony overlooking Sandown Racecourse, modern fitted kitchen with breakfast bar and fitted audio system, master bedroom with en-suite shower room, rear garden. Clive House, 2 The Parade Claygate, Surrey, KT10 0NU 01372 462323 http://www.gascoignes.co.uk/ 140 residential lettings. Accommodation: Large entrance hall, modern fitted kitchen leading to breakfast area, utility room, study, lounge with doors to garden, dining room, master bedroom with built-in wardrobes and en-suite bathroom, 4 further double bedrooms, family bathroom. Enclosed garden with patio area, double garage and off-street parking. A stunning open-plan detached family home with views overlooking St. George's Hill golf course. The property has been completely refurbished throughout and is an ideal family home. A well presented detached family home set within a quiet cul-de-sac, within walking distance of village and station. Weybridge £7,500 pcm Oxshott £4,500 pcm Accommodation: Entrance hall, modern fully fitted kitchen leading to breakfast room. Large family room, lounge with double doors to garden, television room, study with doors to garden, master bedroom with built-in wardrobes and a dressing room, full en-suite bathroom, 2 guest suites, further double bedroom with built-in wardrobes, family bathroom, separate annexe with bedroom and en-suite shower room. Enclosed garden with large patio, double garage and driveway 8 High Street, Cobham Surrey. KT11 3DY 01932 588299 http://www.gascoignes.co.uk/ 142 residential lettings. Accommodation: Large entrance hall, modern fitted kitchen leading to breakfast area, utility room, study, lounge with doors to garden, dining room, master bedroom with built-in wardrobes and en-suite bathroom, 4 further double bedrooms, family bathroom. Enclosed garden with patio area, double garage and off-street parking. A stunning open-plan detached family home with views overlooking St. George's Hill golf course. The property has been completely refurbished throughout and is an ideal family home. A well presented detached family home set within a quiet cul-de-sac, within walking distance of village and station. Weybridge £7,500 pcm Oxshott £4,500 pcm Accommodation: Entrance hall, modern fully fitted kitchen leading to breakfast room. Large family room, lounge with double doors to garden, television room, study with doors to garden, master bedroom with built-in wardrobes and a dressing room, full en-suite bathroom, 2 guest suites, further double bedroom with built-in wardrobes, family bathroom, separate annexe with bedroom and en-suite shower room. Enclosed garden with large patio, double garage and driveway 8 High Street, Cobham Surrey. KT11 3DY 01932 588299 http://www.gascoignes.co.uk/ 142 residential lettings. GASCOIGNE INTERNATIONAL .144 http://www.gascoignes.co.uk/ OF THE GAME Staying ahead white cliffs and gentle bluffs descend to the unspoilt beaches and sparkling blue waters of the Black Sea. Across the Atlantic, you will find equal golfing splendour in the latest spectacular course designed by Greg Norman – the centerpiece of Le Paradis Beach, Golf & Marina Resort, the ultra-exclusive, multi-phased luxury residential resort set in Praslin Bay on the east coast of St Lucia. Le Paradis also has an internationally branded spa with 26 oceanside massage treatment cabanas, a 100-berth deep water marina and yacht club, gourmet restaurants and a resident's beach club. Back in Italy, Gascoignes International have been asked to market Borgo di Gualdo, the new development in San Vito Chietino, which lies in the relatively undiscovered but newly emerging region of Abruzzo. Here, whether it's skiing down black runs or diving into the blue waters of the Tremiti islands, you can do both in the same day. Gascoignes International, led by Director Grahame Clist, have extensive experience in emerging markets and a wide network of contacts within the international investment community. They succeed because they take an investment fund manager's approach and focus on each investor’s needs, be they an individual looking for that second home or an institutional investment fund. Staying ahead of the rest is vital on the international property scene. So while the world dwell on the wonders of Bansko, the focus of skiing in Bulgaria, Gascoignes International have already discovered Borovets, the next big thing in winter sports there. Already the winners of the 2006 International Property Award for Best Italian Development, Gascoignes International have now added the latest emerging region, Abruzzo, to their portfolio of Tuscan and Umbrian properties. And in the Caribbean, they have just been approached to market the most spectacular luxury development ever seen on the east coast of St Lucia. These are all fantastic opportunities whether you are looking for a second home overseas, a place to retire or an investment opportunity, small or large. Take the Super Borovets project, for instance. There are plans for a 25,000 bed resort and 100km of ski runs. The new skiing facilities will have a combined daily capacity of 30,000-35,000 skiers. If sunshine and golf is more your thing, but you like the competitive pricing to be found in Bulgaria, Gascoignes International are also offering opportunities to invest at the Thracian Cliffs Golf and Spa Resort. This luxury village resort, with a Gary Player-inspired golf course reserved purely for residents, is set in 145 tranquil, south-facing hectares, where dramatic A VIEW OF LE PRASLIN BAY FROM LE PARADIS GRAHAME CLIST, INTERNATIONAL DIRECTOR GASCOIGNE INTERNATIONAL .144 http://www.gascoignes.co.uk/ OF THE GAME Staying ahead white cliffs and gentle bluffs descend to the unspoilt beaches and sparkling blue waters of the Black Sea. Across the Atlantic, you will find equal golfing splendour in the latest spectacular course designed by Greg Norman – the centerpiece of Le Paradis Beach, Golf & Marina Resort, the ultra-exclusive, multi-phased luxury residential resort set in Praslin Bay on the east coast of St Lucia. Le Paradis also has an internationally branded spa with 26 oceanside massage treatment cabanas, a 100-berth deep water marina and yacht club, gourmet restaurants and a resident's beach club. Back in Italy, Gascoignes International have been asked to market Borgo di Gualdo, the new development in San Vito Chietino, which lies in the relatively undiscovered but newly emerging region of Abruzzo. Here, whether it's skiing down black runs or diving into the blue waters of the Tremiti islands, you can do both in the same day. Gascoignes International, led by Director Grahame Clist, have extensive experience in emerging markets and a wide network of contacts within the international investment community. They succeed because they take an investment fund manager's approach and focus on each investor’s needs, be they an individual looking for that second home or an institutional investment fund. Staying ahead of the rest is vital on the international property scene. So while the world dwell on the wonders of Bansko, the focus of skiing in Bulgaria, Gascoignes International have already discovered Borovets, the next big thing in winter sports there. Already the winners of the 2006 International Property Award for Best Italian Development, Gascoignes International have now added the latest emerging region, Abruzzo, to their portfolio of Tuscan and Umbrian properties. And in the Caribbean, they have just been approached to market the most spectacular luxury development ever seen on the east coast of St Lucia. These are all fantastic opportunities whether you are looking for a second home overseas, a place to retire or an investment opportunity, small or large. Take the Super Borovets project, for instance. There are plans for a 25,000 bed resort and 100km of ski runs. The new skiing facilities will have a combined daily capacity of 30,000-35,000 skiers. If sunshine and golf is more your thing, but you like the competitive pricing to be found in Bulgaria, Gascoignes International are also offering opportunities to invest at the Thracian Cliffs Golf and Spa Resort. This luxury village resort, with a Gary Player-inspired golf course reserved purely for residents, is set in 145 tranquil, south-facing hectares, where dramatic A VIEW OF LE PRASLIN BAY FROM LE PARADIS GRAHAME CLIST, INTERNATIONAL DIRECTOR FranceCentral Region Les Dryades Residential Golf Spa and Resort set in the heart of the French Countryside is a truly unique collection of beautiful apartments, townhouses and villas. The impressive grounds are home to the Chateau Pouligny Notre Dame, a village centre, golf course, 4* hotel and spa. The resort has been planned with the greatest of care, creating excellent positioning of properties with maximum privacy on the outskirts of the forest, yet just a short walk from the four star hotel and its many luxury facilities. Residential Golf and Spa resort For further information please call the Gascoignes International team on +44 (0)1483 226868 http://www.gascoignesinternational.com/ Les Dryades golf course is one of the most beautiful in the region, with 18 superb holes on gently rolling land. The Chateau Pouligny-Notre-Dame is the heart and inspiration of the project that features luxury homes with quality finishes, wide roofs and large windows for enchanced space and light, buildings of no more than three storeys plus extensive public gardens, swimming pools and stunning views. All properties are built to the latest architectural standard yet in keeping with traditional styles that are designed to integrate with the countryside surroundings through the use of stone, wood and slate materials. Incredibly spacious 1 to 3 bedroom apartments with garden or terrace are situated just a short walk from the hotel. Detached and semi-detached villas boast spectacular views over the golf course and unspoilt countryside. Additional nearby towns include Guéret (40 km), Bourges (80 km), Châteauroux (45 km) and Montluçon (80 km) and La Chatre (6 km). Prices from 105,000 euros up to 600,000 euros FranceCentral Region Les Dryades Residential Golf Spa and Resort set in the heart of the French Countryside is a truly unique collection of beautiful apartments, townhouses and villas. The impressive grounds are home to the Chateau Pouligny Notre Dame, a village centre, golf course, 4* hotel and spa. The resort has been planned with the greatest of care, creating excellent positioning of properties with maximum privacy on the outskirts of the forest, yet just a short walk from the four star hotel and its many luxury facilities. Residential Golf and Spa resort For further information please call the Gascoignes International team on +44 (0)1483 226868 http://www.gascoignesinternational.com/ Les Dryades golf course is one of the most beautiful in the region, with 18 superb holes on gently rolling land. The Chateau Pouligny-Notre-Dame is the heart and inspiration of the project that features luxury homes with quality finishes, wide roofs and large windows for enchanced space and light, buildings of no more than three storeys plus extensive public gardens, swimming pools and stunning views. All properties are built to the latest architectural standard yet in keeping with traditional styles that are designed to integrate with the countryside surroundings through the use of stone, wood and slate materials. Incredibly spacious 1 to 3 bedroom apartments with garden or terrace are situated just a short walk from the hotel. Detached and semi-detached villas boast spectacular views over the golf course and unspoilt countryside. Additional nearby towns include Guéret (40 km), Bourges (80 km), Châteauroux (45 km) and Montluçon (80 km) and La Chatre (6 km). Prices from 105,000 euros up to 600,000 euros This delightful air-conditioned Provencal style villa has a surface area of approximately 350 square metres with an additional 2600 square metres of gardens and terrace. The villa has five bedrooms and five bathrooms accommodating 10 people and is extremely tastefully furnished. The villa’s most impressive features are its magnificent swimming pool and the breathtaking views over the Bay of Cannes and the Esterel mountains. The villa is conveniently located less than 10 minutes by car from Cannes. TO LET Price Starting at 15,000 euros per week (minimum 2 weeks) /50,000 euros per month *Rates are net, exclude tax & services, insurance is extra and compulsory Cannes Office Tel: +33(0)4 93 94 45 45 http://www.beauchamp.com/ CHARMING VILLA Cannes, France INFINITEL Y ENTICING VILLA WITH BEA UTIFUL B A Y VIEWS This delightful air-conditioned Provencal style villa has a surface area of approximately 350 square metres with an additional 2600 square metres of gardens and terrace. The villa has five bedrooms and five bathrooms accommodating 10 people and is extremely tastefully furnished. The villa’s most impressive features are its magnificent swimming pool and the breathtaking views over the Bay of Cannes and the Esterel mountains. The villa is conveniently located less than 10 minutes by car from Cannes. TO LET Price Starting at 15,000 euros per week (minimum 2 weeks) /50,000 euros per month *Rates are net, exclude tax & services, insurance is extra and compulsory Cannes Office Tel: +33(0)4 93 94 45 45 http://www.beauchamp.com/ CHARMING VILLA Cannes, France INFINITEL Y ENTICING VILLA WITH BEA UTIFUL B A Y VIEWS A simply stunning villa set on a plot of approximately 6,700 square metres, conveniently located just a few minutes drive from the famous “Place des Lices” in Saint Tropez. The living area of 500 square metres is comprised of an impressive entrance hall, drawing room, dining room, television room, study, kitchen/breakfast room, guest cloakroom, and four en suite bedrooms. The villa also possesses a swimming pool, tennis court, and beautiful gardens and terraces. FOR SALE 12,750,000 euros Cannes Office Tel: +33(0)4 93 94 45 45 http://www.beauchamp.com/ MY W A Y Saint Tropez, France SUBLIME VILLA PERFECTL Y SITU A T ED IN SAINT TROPEZ A simply stunning villa set on a plot of approximately 6,700 square metres, conveniently located just a few minutes drive from the famous “Place des Lices” in Saint Tropez. The living area of 500 square metres is comprised of an impressive entrance hall, drawing room, dining room, television room, study, kitchen/breakfast room, guest cloakroom, and four en suite bedrooms. The villa also possesses a swimming pool, tennis court, and beautiful gardens and terraces. FOR SALE 12,750,000 euros Cannes Office Tel: +33(0)4 93 94 45 45 http://www.beauchamp.com/ MY W A Y Saint Tropez, France SUBLIME VILLA PERFECTL Y SITU A T ED IN SAINT TROPEZ This area enjoys a superb sunny climate with something for everyone from historical and scenic areas of interest to sports of all kinds. It also offers outstanding value for money with most properties having extensive views of either mountains, sea or both and all are offered with a building warranty. The new developements are small to medium size complexes with either communal pools or private pools. Apartments start at circa £50,000 and detached Villas with private pool included up to over £330,000 for substantial sea front luxury homes. Property purchase is in UK £ with no heavy purchase costs or ongoing costs and there are no lengthy waits for completion, some homes are even ready to move into. MORTGAGES ARE NOW AVAILABLE. To appreciate the sheer beauty of the area and find your dream home we are able to offer inspection trips starting at £99, call now for further details. For further information please call the Gascoignes International team on +44 (0)1483 226868 http://www.gascoignesinternational.com/ alwaysDreamtof a holidayhome in TTurkey? Turkey ...we could help your dreams come true. The beautiful Fethiye, Dalaman, Gocek and Kalkan area is known as the Turquoise coast. Situated on the South Western coast of Turkey and set amidst a stunning landscape of beaches, mountains, pine forests and outstanding views. This area enjoys a superb sunny climate with something for everyone from historical and scenic areas of interest to sports of all kinds. It also offers outstanding value for money with most properties having extensive views of either mountains, sea or both and all are offered with a building warranty. The new developements are small to medium size complexes with either communal pools or private pools. Apartments start at circa £50,000 and detached Villas with private pool included up to over £330,000 for substantial sea front luxury homes. Property purchase is in UK £ with no heavy purchase costs or ongoing costs and there are no lengthy waits for completion, some homes are even ready to move into. MORTGAGES ARE NOW AVAILABLE. To appreciate the sheer beauty of the area and find your dream home we are able to offer inspection trips starting at £99, call now for further details. For further information please call the Gascoignes International team on +44 (0)1483 226868 http://www.gascoignesinternational.com/ alwaysDreamtof a holidayhome in TTurkey? Turkey ...we could help your dreams come true. The beautiful Fethiye, Dalaman, Gocek and Kalkan area is known as the Turquoise coast. Situated on the South Western coast of Turkey and set amidst a stunning landscape of beaches, mountains, pine forests and outstanding views. Sterling Exchange foreignexchangemadesimple• Free Transfers • No commission • No minimum trade size • Designated currency planners • Fixed rates for up to two years • 24 hours client services • Foreign bank account opening facilities For a quick, no obligation quoteor information pack regardingSterling Exchange, contact John Paul: 0044 (0)2073299977john@sterlingexchange.co.ukwww.sterlingexchange.co.uk When purchasing your dream home overseas, emigratingor simply importing or exporting, Sterling Exchangecould save you hundreds if not thousands of pounds.Our dedicated team are on hand 24 hours a day to helpyou achieve the best possible exchange rates across themarket place. Example:“A property costing 250,000 Euros, purchased on the6th September 2007 would have cost £168,918. Howeverthe same 250,000 Euros purchased on the 20th September2007, less than two weeks later would have cost£176,056. A difference of £7,138”. Using Sterling Exchange could not be easier. AGENT TO THE
SUPER-RICH SUPER-RICH Beauchamp Estates give an insight into the minds of the super-rich, and the property market in which they move.
GARY HERSHAM
When the year kicks off with a £35 million sale, hitting the record for the most expensive new build house per sq ft ever sold in Britain, you know it’s going to be a good year. Well you do if you’re an estate agent, anyway. And that is how 2008 began for prime central London agents, Beauchamp Estates, with the sale of the palatial “Palladio”, in London’s elite Hampstead.
With a white gold-plated swimming pool, a £750,000 sweeping staircase, and a built-in nightclub, hair salon, sauna and cinema, you can almost swallow the price tag. This trend of trophy homes is springing up all over London. Where once they were seen as ostentatious and conspicuous, the sheer amount of wealth in London today is making them popular again. A breed of super wealthy buyers with demands that are increasingly extravagant and equally expensive are leading and maintaining the top end of the property market.
Based in Mayfair, Beauchamp Estates is in the enviable position of specialising in this otherworldly end of the market, as well as in more modest central London properties and country estates. Dealing with wealthy and super-wealthy buyers on a daily basis, Gary Hersham, of Beauchamp Estates, has a pretty good idea of what they look for in their property. “The first thing to remember, of course, is that a price tag of £35 million to these super-wealthy buyers is just a small proportion of their income, let alone their capital” says Hersham. “For some people buying at the top end of the market, the cost of a multi-million pound house is simply half their monthly wage.”
This puts things somewhat into perspective. Not only are these buyers able to afford houses of this nature, they can buy them without noticing a dent in the bank balance, and will quite possible have another half dozen similar properties around the globe. According to Hersham, it is the very fact that owners of extravagant homes like Palladio
PENELOPE COURT
spend less than 90 days a year in residence, that makes for a stable market. Put simply, there is nothing that affects these prime purchases.
Their multi-home lifestyle also affects what kind of home the super-rich look for in the UK. “They are looking for the same level of quality which they have in their home in the South of France, say,” explains Penelope Court. “It’s very much an ego-thing, a status symbol, but also a safe haven for their money – a tangible asset.” Hersham adds, “These people are also accustomed to a certain kind of lifestyle which needs to be catered for in the home.”
The thing that sets these buyers apart from the average buyer on the street is their ability to make any whim or fancy a reality. This is an important factor in terms of the homes they are looking for. Now that it is possible to have a sauna, ballroom or hair salon in the home, they will look for the homes with the very best. And if particular whims and fancies are not catered for, it is simple enough to pay the right people in order to achieve what is desired – even if this means a swimming pool en-suite to the master bedroom! There are simply no limitations.
This is not to say however that the super-rich will throw their money about without consideration. In fact, this special breed of buyer is very discerning and understands the art of negotiation. “Only once in my 30 years in estate agency have we had a buyer agree in the first instance to pay the exact asking price,” Hersham recalls. “Her only instructions to me were to “get me that house”. This only happens when properties are particularly special, or strike a particular chord with the buyer.”
The much-hyped Russian oligarchs and Middle-Eastern oil tycoons have had their presence in central London widely publicised, but the super-rich buyers are by no means limited to any nationality. Although the Russians lead
the market, nationalities of all sorts follow – London is truly international when it comes to property. Interestingly, Hersham observes a common attitude to buying property amongst the super-rich, which seems to cross all nationalities, age or ethnic boundaries: “Whether a 60-year old multi-millionairess, a 40-year old Arab, a 60-year old Venezuelan or a young Russian,” he says, “they all tend to want the same things, and act the same – with a calm and determined demeanour. They almost invariably have a manager who deals with the money side on their behalf.” This leaves the buyers to concentrate on the more pleasurable, emotional, side of buying a home, a luxury the average homebuyer is unlikely to achieve.
From time to time a tourist may take a wrong turn down a street in London and find themselves feeling rather overwhelmed by the quality and wealth that oozes from the properties there. Yet mostly these pockets of wealth are strangely elusive unless one knows where to look. For the very top end of the market, the £5million plus price band, Chelsea, South Kensington, St John’s Wood, Belgravia, Mayfair, Knightsbridge and Hampstead offer the location, lifestyle, likeminded community, and the prestige, which the super-rich are looking for. “Those in the middle market,” Penelope Court explains, “by which I mean the £2.5million to £5million bracket, find that the offerings in Belgravia, Knightsbridge and Hampstead are too expensive, and those at the lower end of the London market, below £2.5million, prefer to stick to the slightly more modest South Kensington and Chelsea, and sometimes St John’s Wood.”
Rather than banding buyers into price brackets, buyers can be divided into two categories – those who need a mortgage, and those who don’t! The properties over £2.5million usually go to cash buyers, with exchange going through between seven and ten days. Mortgages always slow down the process considerably. In the ‘low’ end of the market at the moment, the crack down on mortgage lending is affecting the market considerably, as people simply can’t get financing. The very lack of financial constraint at the top end is what keeps this market fluid - decisions are made quickly as buyers know what they want, exchanges are completed quickly due to financial strength. There is a surprisingly disproportionate number of people in London who don’t need mortgages to those who do. Wealthy cash buyers are buying here for their
children, or looking for a London pad to add to their portfolio.
Whilst London is certainly the main pull for wealthy business tycoons, particularly foreigners, the surrounding countryside, including Berkshire, Suffolk, Hampshire, Wiltshire and Hertfordshire, also has its fair share of offerings for those with some cash to splash. One property for sale through Beauchamp is The Courtyard, a £7million country estate in Suffolk. Estates such as these tend to appeal more to British or continental wealth, but it is impossible to rule out foreign investors completely. This particular property is fitted with complex lighting technology and high-spec features including a cinema room, sauna and steam room. Although the level of technology seen in The Courtyard is common in London, it is less commonly seen in country properties, which usually appeal to a more traditional British buyer. Court believes this break from tradition may well attract foreign buyers.
The current owner, Mike Spenser-Morris, renovated the property in 2002 to suit his tastes, but are developers in general really responding to the needs of the wealthy and the ultra-wealthy? Hersham believes that rather than responding to buyer’s needs, developers are responding to a need for quality and fine finishes, both seen to an exacting standard in both Palladio and in The Courtyard. In some instances, he warns, over specification can be a turn off to buyers. The mainstream buyer at the top of the market is confused by the advanced gadgetry which is so often part of new developments. “Often developers are putting too much effort into gadgets and gismos and failing to understand the lifestyles of their target buyers,” he says. “The late Jimmy Goldsmith, for example, had a master bedroom that covered the complete 5000 sq ft first floor of his home. Developers are not having the courage to understand these kind of needs.”
With years of experience in prime central London, Beauchamp Estates are now venturing across the seas, opening offices in Cannes in the South of France, and Mykonos in Greece. Property owners in the middle to top end of the market rarely own only one home, and Beauchamp hope to cater for this section of the market abroad.
Hersham says of the privileged position he and his fellow agents find themselves in, “I love it all. We get to meet all sorts of people – politicians, actors, and potentates – They’re all phenomenally interesting people who have fascinating stories to tell.”
150 http://www.beauchamp.co.uk/
Completely secluded behind security gates, this extravagantly spacious house occupies prime position high above famous Super Paradise Beach. The décor combines sleek white modern Cycaldic aesthetic, with funky, hip elements: a cool white minimalistic drawing room with a hip chill-out room built around raw rock face. 5 bedroom suites with A/C, vast pool complex, with views right down onto the beach. A truly glamorous setting for a Mykonian holiday. SUPER P A RADISE MYKONOS, GREECE THIS EXTRA V A GANTL Y SP ACIOUS HOUSE OCCUPIES PRIME POSITION ABOVE F AMOUS SUPER P A RADISE BEACH. Tel: +44(0)20 7499 7722 http://www.beauchamp.co.uk/ PRICE ON APPLICA TION Completely secluded behind security gates, this extravagantly spacious house occupies prime position high above famous Super Paradise Beach. The décor combines sleek white modern Cycaldic aesthetic, with funky, hip elements: a cool white minimalistic drawing room with a hip chill-out room built around raw rock face. 5 bedroom suites with A/C, vast pool complex, with views right down onto the beach. A truly glamorous setting for a Mykonian holiday. SUPER P A RADISE MYKONOS, GREECE THIS EXTRA V A GANTL Y SP ACIOUS HOUSE OCCUPIES PRIME POSITION ABOVE F AMOUS SUPER P A RADISE BEACH. Tel: +44(0)20 7499 7722 http://www.beauchamp.co.uk/ PRICE ON APPLICA TION MYKONOS, GREECE PRICE ON APPLICA TION This is the prestige house to rent on Mykonos. 6-7 bedroom suites, contemporary luxury, fully staffed with House Manager, driver and cook. Rooms are furnished with Italian design modern furniture, the pool has an indoor/outdoor lay-out and the living areas are designed to maximise the effect of the striking architecture while thoughtfully providing every comfort. Excellent staff take care of guests' every need. A MAGNIFICENT PROPER TY SET IN 4,000 SQUARE METRES OF PRIME LAND F ACING THE ISLAND OF DELOS AND THE SUNSET . Tel: +44(0)20 7499 7722 http://www.beauchamp.co.uk/ MYKONOS, GREECE PRICE ON APPLICA TION This is the prestige house to rent on Mykonos. 6-7 bedroom suites, contemporary luxury, fully staffed with House Manager, driver and cook. Rooms are furnished with Italian design modern furniture, the pool has an indoor/outdoor lay-out and the living areas are designed to maximise the effect of the striking architecture while thoughtfully providing every comfort. Excellent staff take care of guests' every need. A MAGNIFICENT PROPER TY SET IN 4,000 SQUARE METRES OF PRIME LAND F ACING THE ISLAND OF DELOS AND THE SUNSET . Tel: +44(0)20 7499 7722 http://www.beauchamp.co.uk/ Italy Deep in the heart of this charming and lush environment, halfway between Rome and Florence and within an untouched natural reserve close to Orvieto, lies “Torre de Monaldeschi”, a dream come true. This unique Umbrian project was recently voted ‘Best Italian Development’ at the prestigious Daily Mail International Property Awards. “Torre de’Monaldeschi is an imaginative development of just over 100 properties located in the Umbrian countryside near famed Orvieto, about one hour from Rome. No two properties are the same and it is so rare to see such a development in this region. The resort has been designed around an 11th century fortress and is aimed at preserving the historical and artistic value through the building plan. Torre de’Monaldeschi offers anyone looking for a tranquil retreat the best of both worlds, using ancient building methods and new technologies to create a modern concept of living in the Borgo style. The resort comprises of a beautiful collection of one, in the green heart of Umbria For further information please call the Gascoignes International team on +44 (0)1483 226868 http://www.gascoignesinternational.com/ AWARDwinning properties two, three and 4 bedroom townhouses, villas and apartments built in a traditional style and from authentic materials of the Umbrian area. It offers luxurious accommodation located around an eleventh century fortress along with a superb leisure and sporting facilities. The development is situated only 13 miles from Orvieto and 1.8 miles from Ficulle, set within green lush countryside which produces some of the best wine and olive oil in Italy. The whole area consists of cultivated lands, medieval villages, churches and sanctuaries, castles and fortresses, rocky peaks, valleys and plains. It is located halfway between two of Italy’s major art cities, Rome and Florence and within easy reach of the international airports of Fiumicino and Ciampino. All properties are individually designed with terraces, private gardens, garages and parking. Off-plan and completed properties are now available with prices starting from €200,000. Italy Deep in the heart of this charming and lush environment, halfway between Rome and Florence and within an untouched natural reserve close to Orvieto, lies “Torre de Monaldeschi”, a dream come true. This unique Umbrian project was recently voted ‘Best Italian Development’ at the prestigious Daily Mail International Property Awards. “Torre de’Monaldeschi is an imaginative development of just over 100 properties located in the Umbrian countryside near famed Orvieto, about one hour from Rome. No two properties are the same and it is so rare to see such a development in this region. The resort has been designed around an 11th century fortress and is aimed at preserving the historical and artistic value through the building plan. Torre de’Monaldeschi offers anyone looking for a tranquil retreat the best of both worlds, using ancient building methods and new technologies to create a modern concept of living in the Borgo style. The resort comprises of a beautiful collection of one, in the green heart of Umbria For further information please call the Gascoignes International team on +44 (0)1483 226868 http://www.gascoignesinternational.com/ AWARDwinning properties two, three and 4 bedroom townhouses, villas and apartments built in a traditional style and from authentic materials of the Umbrian area. It offers luxurious accommodation located around an eleventh century fortress along with a superb leisure and sporting facilities. The development is situated only 13 miles from Orvieto and 1.8 miles from Ficulle, set within green lush countryside which produces some of the best wine and olive oil in Italy. The whole area consists of cultivated lands, medieval villages, churches and sanctuaries, castles and fortresses, rocky peaks, valleys and plains. It is located halfway between two of Italy’s major art cities, Rome and Florence and within easy reach of the international airports of Fiumicino and Ciampino. All properties are individually designed with terraces, private gardens, garages and parking. Off-plan and completed properties are now available with prices starting from €200,000. Lake Como... “the perfect place to escape to all year round” Lake Como... “the perfect place to escape to all year round” Lake Como -‘LePergole di Sonenga’
The “Pergole di Sonenga” lies at the foot of steep mountains, surrounded by coniferous woodland, with magnificent views over Lake Como.
The village is aptly named after the traditional pergolas that grace the streets and alleyways and support the green wisteria foliage.
The “Pergole di Sonenga” is a prestigious development, painstakingly designed, using the highest quality natural materials. Traditional colours advised by the Liguria Colour Observatory of Genoa have been used to integrate with the spectacular surroundings.
This development also optimises environmentally friendly systems; rainwater is captured, stored in underground tanks, recycled and used for the
swimming pool and garden irrigation system. A variety of apartment types are offered, all with lake views, with the option of fully customizing the interiors according to clients’ preferences.
The apartments are designed to complement total relaxation, both inside and outside, where one may enjoy the luxury of its private swimming pool overlooking the lake and numerous sun terraces.
5 minutes away from the beautiful Menaggio and Cadenabbia golf course, one of oldest in Europe, 10 minutes away from Switzerland and less than an hour from the ski slopes the “Pergole di Sonenga” is the perfect place to escape to all year round.
Prices start at 447,000 euro ex VAT
For further details please contact::
Beauchamp Estates T.+44 (0)20 7499 7722 Italy Development T.+41 91 922 8054 Gascoignes T.+44 (0)1483 226868
Italy LAKE COMO BELLANO A small, private development of just 16 apartments, both 1 swimming pool and sun deck. There is also a fully Italy LAKE COMO BELLANO A small, private development of just 16 apartments, both 1 swimming pool and sun deck. There is also a fully and 2 bedroom, overlooking Lake Como, located just above the town only a few minutes’ walk from the lakeside but elevated to ensure that every apartment has a spectacular view over Lake Como. All apartments have terraces large enough to dine outside on and all the first floor apartments have gardens all overlooking the lake.
Every apartment has its own very large lock up garage with enough space for a family car, bicycles, storage for ski equipment and are ready to move into. Full air conditioning, heating and fitted kitchens are all standard equipment. Attached to the building also looking over the lake is the resident’s private
equipped laundry room for residents private use, fully fitted kitchen area, Air-conditioning and central heating in all apartments This is a unique opportunity to purchase a home in an area that fast becoming the most sought after in Italy and indeed, Europe. Bellano is an ideal base from which to explore the Italian and Swiss Alps and the Lake of Como. Whether you wish to relax by the pool read on your terrace or feel the excitement of Milan this is the perfect place to be.
There are no hidden costs, and each flat is complete, ready to move into. Completion is scheduled for July 2008 at the latest. Prices from Euros 226,000 excluding VAT
For further details please contact::
Gascoignes T.+44 (0)1483 226868 Italy Development T.+41 91 922 8054 Beauchamp Estates T.+44 (0)20 7499 7722
Cuccumiao, one of the loveliest settings in Sardinia, offers a complete retreat from the outside world whilst benefiting from all modern amenities. 5 km from the sea this charming small equestrian estate, on some 7.23 hectares, is ideally based for access ot Olbia International Airport, Porto Rotondo and Porto Cervo and the new polo field of Costa Smeralda. The estate comprises a farmhouse, a converted barn, a guest house and stabling for up to 10 horses. The 10 double bedrooms are complimented by a spa, terraces, decks and picnic areas, swimming pool and tennis court, a biological pond and ménage. Price on Application For further details please contact: Italy Development T.+41 91 922 8054 Beauchamp Estates T.+44 (0)20 7499 7722 Sporting paradiseSporting paradise Exclusive Country EstateCOSTA SMERALDA, SARDINIA, ITALY RIDE, SWIM & PLAY TENNIS Cuccumiao, one of the loveliest settings in Sardinia, offers a complete retreat from the outside world whilst benefiting from all modern amenities. 5 km from the sea this charming small equestrian estate, on some 7.23 hectares, is ideally based for access ot Olbia International Airport, Porto Rotondo and Porto Cervo and the new polo field of Costa Smeralda. The estate comprises a farmhouse, a converted barn, a guest house and stabling for up to 10 horses. The 10 double bedrooms are complimented by a spa, terraces, decks and picnic areas, swimming pool and tennis court, a biological pond and ménage. Price on Application For further details please contact: Italy Development T.+41 91 922 8054 Beauchamp Estates T.+44 (0)20 7499 7722 Sporting paradiseSporting paradise Exclusive Country EstateCOSTA SMERALDA, SARDINIA, ITALY RIDE, SWIM & PLAY TENNIS Surrey interiors LTD bathrooms & kitchens that reflect your lifestyle expertly designed & installed As featured in Kitchen & Bathroom News our many client testimonials speak for themselves 0800 1832044 http://www.surreyinteriors.co.uk/ exceedyour expectations Surrey interiors LTD bathrooms & kitchens that reflect your lifestyle expertly designed & installed As featured in Kitchen & Bathroom News our many client testimonials speak for themselves 0800 1832044 http://www.surreyinteriors.co.uk/ exceedyour expectations Tanby Swimming Pools & Hot Tubs Tanby Swimming Pools & Hot Tubs SPATA Gold Award Winning Indoor & Outdoor Pools
Marquis Spas Showroom with demo models to try in comfort and privacy Heating & Environmental Specialists Service & Maintenance Contracts
Family Company celebrating 42 years of excellence
Chemicals, Equipment, Safety Covers & Inflatables Pool Refurbishment Saunas & Steam Rooms
http://www.tanbypools.co.uk/ 01883 622335 The Pool Centre, 620-622 Limpsfield Road, Warlingham, Surrey CR6 9DS TheDreamIsland For further information please call the Gascoignes International team on +44 (0)1483 226868 http://www.gascoignesinternational.com/ ¦Location: 20 minutes away from the International Airport - Hewennorah ¦Topography: The land rises from 0 to 620ft above sea level as such every piece of property has a view of the ocean or bay ¦Brands: Starwood Westin; Greg Norman 18-hole signature championship course with all holes having spectacular views of the ocean and bay and managed by Troon Golf ¦Incentives worth over US$ 100,000 in value ¦Four and a quarter kilometres of coastline ¦One of the most protected bays on the Island. Praslin Bay is protected by a system of an interlocking reef system, no ocean swells enters bay ¦One kilometre of beach ¦Three stunning elevated peninsulas form part of the Le Paradis coastline with dramatic cliffs and natural rock features ¦Tax incentives 10-15 years ¦Spectacular underwater marine life & magnificent dive sites ¦La Paradis will be open 3 years ahead of other brandings destination coastline resort Caribbean St Lucia Le Paradis is the first Branded Master Planned Luxury Resort Community on St. Lucia. A spectacular 554-acre ultra-exclusive multi-phased luxury residential resort community, and will encompass a Starwood- Westin Hotel, Greg Norman 18 hole championship signature golf course, 15,000 sq ft International branded spa, 25,000 sq ft of conferencing facilities, marina and marina village, five star boutique hotel, commercial centre and upscale boutique shopping. St. Lucia is poised to explode upon the world scene as the premier golf, spa & yachting destination in the entire Caribbean and brands like The Westin, Ritz Carlton, Raffles Resorts and other world renowned resort operators have plans to open their doors on this gem of the Caribbean-St. Lucia. The real estate releases will include luxury condominiums, golf estate home sites, villas, luxury penthouses, marina residential and marina slips; all with views of the ocean and bay. With Norman’s acclaimed course framing the resort, the tropical paradise will be the premier address on St. Lucia and one of the most luxurious in the Caribbean. TheDreamIsland For further information please call the Gascoignes International team on +44 (0)1483 226868 http://www.gascoignesinternational.com/ ¦Location: 20 minutes away from the International Airport - Hewennorah ¦Topography: The land rises from 0 to 620ft above sea level as such every piece of property has a view of the ocean or bay ¦Brands: Starwood Westin; Greg Norman 18-hole signature championship course with all holes having spectacular views of the ocean and bay and managed by Troon Golf ¦Incentives worth over US$ 100,000 in value ¦Four and a quarter kilometres of coastline ¦One of the most protected bays on the Island. Praslin Bay is protected by a system of an interlocking reef system, no ocean swells enters bay ¦One kilometre of beach ¦Three stunning elevated peninsulas form part of the Le Paradis coastline with dramatic cliffs and natural rock features ¦Tax incentives 10-15 years ¦Spectacular underwater marine life & magnificent dive sites ¦La Paradis will be open 3 years ahead of other brandings destination coastline resort Caribbean St Lucia Le Paradis is the first Branded Master Planned Luxury Resort Community on St. Lucia. A spectacular 554-acre ultra-exclusive multi-phased luxury residential resort community, and will encompass a Starwood- Westin Hotel, Greg Norman 18 hole championship signature golf course, 15,000 sq ft International branded spa, 25,000 sq ft of conferencing facilities, marina and marina village, five star boutique hotel, commercial centre and upscale boutique shopping. St. Lucia is poised to explode upon the world scene as the premier golf, spa & yachting destination in the entire Caribbean and brands like The Westin, Ritz Carlton, Raffles Resorts and other world renowned resort operators have plans to open their doors on this gem of the Caribbean-St. Lucia. The real estate releases will include luxury condominiums, golf estate home sites, villas, luxury penthouses, marina residential and marina slips; all with views of the ocean and bay. With Norman’s acclaimed course framing the resort, the tropical paradise will be the premier address on St. Lucia and one of the most luxurious in the Caribbean. sheenkitchendesign
Contemporary Kitchen Design and Installation
.......
206 – 208 Upper Richmond Road West • London • SW14 8AH Tel: 0208 876 6106 • Fax: 0208 878 4501
Model shown is the Boxster RS 60 Spyder at £45,750 including 12 month road fund licence and first registration fee. Model shown is the Boxster RS 60 Spyder at £45,750 including 12 month road fund licence and first registration fee. The legend lives on.
The spirit of the past combined with the performance of today.
The 303 bhp Boxster RS 60 Spyder: own it from £45,400 to the limits you set.
For further information on the Porsche model range or to arrange a demonstration call 01483 408 800 or visit www.porsche.co.uk/guildford
Porsche Centre Guildford
Woodbridge Meadows Guildford, Surrey GU1 1BD info@porscheguildford.co.uk
Fuel consumption data in accordance with 80/1268/EC. l/100km (mpg): Urban 15.3 (18.5); Extra Urban 7.8 (36.2); Combined 10.6 (26.7). CO2 emissions (g/km) 254-262.
Tuesday 15 April 2008
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
