welsh living magazine

The KitchenEditionTom JonesInterview

Treetop LivingTreehouses for Adults

Grand DesignersTop Architects for your grand design

Welsh•Design•Interiors•Lifestyle

www.welshliving.com £1.95Spring 2009

Bathroom Centre

Bathroom Centre

Visit our extensive showroom with a vast array of Bathrooms, Tiles & Accessories

With over 45 years combined experience in bathroom design & fi tting, you can be assured of our technical expertise

• Bathroom design service (Computer aided)• Bathroom accessories & lighting• Bathroom furniture• Underfl oor heating• Wet room fl oor specialist• Now with larger showroom• Professional installation service available

Service, Value & Quality Assured

Visit Our Showrooms at:

George Street Furnishers19-24 George Street, Newport, NP20 1ENTel: 01633 262629

George Street Furnishers374 Newport Road, Cardiff, CF23 9AE(Next to Megabowl)Tel: 02920 021800

Open 7 days a week!Web: www.aquabathroomcentre.co.uk

• Laufen• Matki• Heritage• Clearwater• Roca• Mira• Grohe

Appointed dealers:

• Daryl• Airbath• Kohler• Bisque• Acova• Cifi el• UtopiaAnd many more..

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6 Welsh Living Summer 09

TextEditor: Ed Pereira

Sub-Editor: Pia TandonStaff Journalist: Catherine GrahamPublishing Journalist: Gavin Harris

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Neat tricksFrom storage tricks to sculptural shapes, here are some ingenious neat storage solutions.

Occa, Functional coffee table with storage. £649 www.boncept.co.uk Tree Mario Mazzer, Clothes hanger. Frame in batch-dyed

polyethylene. Available in various colours. www.bonaldo.it Cubic Orbit Fun, Gino Carollo Fix or swivel bookcase with square base. Frame:

matt painted wood. www.bonaldo.it Mimosa Coffee Table Mimosa contemporary coffee table created from solid acacia wood - a really

contemporary piece of furniture with a chunky modern look with built-in storage. 56 x 91 x 38cm. £179 www.franceshunt.co.uk

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The Magtable, Magtable coffee table made from solid wood with slotted top for magazines - available in black or natural £155 www.franceshunt.

co.uk Duplex Coffee Table Set A wonderful glass topped coffee table with a stylish, top quality wooden structure. The table comes complete with

4 stools and will add a wonderful touch to any living or dining area. £229.99 www.drinkstuff.com Segment tables with rotating storage drawers,

Brit designers Wayne Pottinger and Natalie Cole £480 www.pottingerandcole.co.uk Wooden Tribu £459.50 www.ligne-roset.co.uk

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Storage

Winter 08 Welsh Living 9


Classic Must Have Piece

Inspired Classic designsGRAND PRIX, DESIGN ARNE JACOBSEN 1957

The Grand Prix 3130 design was introduced in 1957 at the Designers’ Spring Exhibition (Kunsthaandværkernes Foraarsudstilling) at the Danish Museum of Art & Design in Copenhagen where Fritz Hansen introducedthe completely new Arne Jacobsen chair.

Later that year, the chair was displayed at the Triennale in Milan where it received the ‘Grand Prix’ – the finest distinction of the exhibition. After this, the chair has always beencalled the ‘Grand Prix chair’. Originally, the Grand Prix chair was introduced with a wooden and steel base.

Today, the chair is available with a steel base and is an ideal chair with a wide range of applications, such as dining, conference, office andthe private home. The slim shell is composed of 9 layers of veneer plus 2 layers of cotton textile and rests on a base made of mirror chromed or satin chromed steel in different heights. It is lightweight and stackable and is available in an extensive palette of colours, types of wood and with fabric or leather upholstery.

www.fritzhansen.com

Summer 09 Welsh Living 13

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PB Welsh Living Winter 08

Inspired Classic designs


KitchensWe love the...Bulthaup b2 Kitchen & the Poggenpohl Dining DeskBulthaup b2 Kitchen - See Left

Starting from the philosophical origins of every living space - fire and

water points, bulthaup has created b2, an open and mobile kitchen

that can be added to and composed to suit each individual’s personal

requirements. The new group of elements is the logical continuation

of the kitchen workbench and defines the “kitchen workshop” in its

original meaning - comprising a workbench, kitchen tool cabinet and

appliance housing cabinet. The workbench is for the fire and water

point; the kitchen tool cabinet for crockery, cooking utensils, as well

as spices and food; and the appliance housing cabinet for the oven,

dishwasher and refrigerator. Following the principles of “clearing

away anything superfluous”, bulthaup b2 is a simple design of lasting

value created by top quality materials assembled flawlessly.

www.bulthaup.com

Poggenpohl Dining Desk- See Below

The large-size dining table (with integrated ice bucket and grill plate,

symbolizes the contemporary understanding of open living spaces. As

a dining desk, it becomes the centrepoint of the home and combines

communicative and functional properties of the kitchen as a living

area. It can be opened lengthwise either by hand or with the aid of a

noiseless motor. Stainless steel trolleys can be pushed in at the ends,

interconnecting all areas of the kitchen.

www.poggenpohl.de

Grand Designers>


By now most of you have no doubt seen the groundbreaking Grand Designs series on Channel 4, but how many people do you know have actually completed their own grand design? And it has to be grand - smaller projects don’t count! More to the point, if you did want to build a unique building that stands out amongst the architecture of mere mortals, exactly how would you go about it?

Finding an architect is essentially the starting point for many, and as Kevin McCloud’s pioneering programme shows those who build from a plan normally come up with better finishes, while those without one usually end up with all sorts of peculiar - and often rather odd - quirks that let down the whole project to a great extent.

Here at Welsh Living we understand that all our readers already have beautiful homes. But as and when you feel ready to lose a little sanity and undertake the building project of your life, we want to help take the headache out of your design by giving you the lowdown on some of the top architects in the UK that are ready and able to turn your dream vision into a solid black and white plan.

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David Reid Homes David Reid Homes provides a turnkey ‘design and build’ service to aspiring grand designers – from initial concepts through to completion of their distinctive dream home. Whether contemporary or traditional in style, brick and block or ICF in construction, David Reid Homes pride themselves on their build quality, consistently delivering exceptional customer service and creating individual energy efficient homes that match the lifestyle and aspirations of their owners, and importantly their budget!

David Reid founded the company in New Zealand in 1993, based on the philosophy of giving the client what they want. Today David Reid Homes is the most awarded prestige home builder in New Zealand where it has become a household brand name, and has repeated the success story in Australia since launching there in 2004. The company’s unique service is now available in the UK where they are already working on some stunning designs. Two of the first three David Reid Homes houses to be built in the UK are in Green Belt, with one of them granted planning consent under the rarely used PPS7 clause, allowing for houses of exceptional architectural value to be built in the countryside

AmazonailsAmazonails is a not-for-profit social enterprise, offering design, consultancy, training and support in strawbale building and other sustainable building techniques. Recently becoming part of the Royal Institute of British Architect’s (RIBA) continuous professional development provider’s network, they have been developing techniques and simplifying practice in strawbale building since 1994, and are acknowledged internationally for their breadth of experience.

Amazonails is at the cutting edge of design, having pioneered several types of low-impact foundations through the building regulation system in the UK, specialising in designs that use no cement and are self-draining. Working in conjunction with North Kesteven District Council, Amazonails are working on the first affordable housing scheme in the UK to use strawbale building techniques, which will be going on site this year in Lincolnshire. Amazonails has also acted as consultants to clients such as the Ecology Building Society and the National Trust, and offer their own design & drawing service.

Davies Sutton ArchitectsDavies Sutton Architects are chartered architects specialising in the conservation of historic buildings and new buildings in some of the country’s most sensitive environments. Advocating the SPAB philosophy of repair, the practice recognises that there are also demands that modern day living spaces place on historic buildings and the natural environment as a whole. Through a sound knowledge of the historical development of the built environment, coupled with well-founded principles of sustainability, Davies Sutton Architects have gained an enviable track record of breathing new life into these complex sites, ensuring that they are safeguarded for years to come.

Davies Sutton Architects advocate that all new build projects and alterations to historic buildings should be clearly of their time. This approach often involves finding new expressions for traditional forms, materials and techniques that are relevant to 21st century building and it focuses on the pursuit of the company’s principles from initial ideas into the details of their buildings. The practice believes that the design of new buildings in such environments provides an exciting opportunity to shape the future and that, through their pursuit of high standards in design, construction and craftsmanship, their legacy will be the ‘historic environment of the future’.

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4 KBJ ArchitectsAfter training in Newcastle and London and practising for many years in north London, Katherine Jones returned to her Welsh roots in the upper Towy valley with her family in 1995. Since then, her RIBA-chartered architectural practice KBJ Architects has had commissions all over Wales and England. They have been pioneering “Green Architecture” here in Wales since then and the practice has won awards for their sustainable buildings which use environmentally friendly materials in their construction. KBJ’s founding principle is that involving clients and the end user from inception, combined with good sustainable design, is the way to make successful living, breathing buildings for people to live, work and play in.

From conception to completion, their holistic approach employs effective designs and renewable technologies with traditional materials such as lime, glass, clay, sheep’s wool, timber, stone sedum, and lime-crete instead of concrete slabs for floors. Their buildings match the conventional with the contemporary to make the most of the elements – air, earth, water, and light and heat from the sun – to create homes, workplaces, leisure, school and healthcare buildings which are technically innovative, clean, dry and warm. Whether in care homes or private homes, they promote ease of access and use without making an issue of disability. Their environmentally friendly buildings promote energy efficiency and lower maintenance at the same or lower cost.

Thomas de Cruz Architects and DesignersFounded by Peter Thomas de Cruz in 1995, Thomas de Cruz Architects and Designers is a small, progressive practice with a multicultural outlook producing sensitive contemporary architecture with an emphasis on imaginative interiors and creative lighting. The practice focuses primarily on high quality private houses, both new build and alterations to existing houses, and defines all its work by the twin essentials of contemporary design - space and light.

Thomas de Cruz also has a track record in other one-off projects including doctor’s surgeries, restaurants, sport’s clubhouses and museum/leisure projects, which they approach with the same passion for contemporary design and attention to detail as they do with private houses. Most of the practice’s work is in and around London and the south east but they will work anywhere in the UK for the right project. They also actively seek work abroad with experience of working in Spain, France, Romania, St Lucia, Malaysia, Sweden, Morocco, Jamaica, Australia, Bahrain and Antigua.

If you want to find out more about architects in Wales then a good starting point is the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), the UK body for architecture and the architectural profession. You can find them online at: www.architecture.com.


Renaissance DesignWe showcase the new collection from Thibault

Thibaut’s Residence collection is old world elegance with a sophisticated edge. Inspired by the flourishing artwork, paintings, and embellishments of the 14th–17th century European Renaissance, designs have been enriched with sensuous textures and a refined color palette. Wallpapers are accompanied by luxurious printed and woven fabrics imparting a magnificent style and grace.

www.thibautdesign.com

Frotolla, named after a Renaissance dance, is a modern scroll damask with a silk texture.

Frotolla Silk, a 100% silk fabric, is printed with striped scrolling panels.

Sumptuous Elegance

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Baron Crewel, is a cotton and linen blend hand-stitched in India. The impressive multi-

colored Jacobean pattern is based on an antique document. Its combination of scale, style,

color and texture create a splendid, distinguished look.


Sumptuous Elegance

Castello was inspired by a 17th century Italian appliqué fabric of the Renaissance period. Metallic overtones give the design depth and shimmer.

With the advent of the Tate Modern and Tate Britain now showing pure photographic exhibitions, in the last decade, photography has come of age in the art world. In this feature, Welsh Living brings you three of the world’s most exciting photographic artists.

Collecting the Photographic Arts

Oneofeditions.com has a mission:

helping people make the walls of

their homes beautiful. Have you

ever wanted to have original art

in your home, but you weren’t sure about

approaching a gallery? We want people to

feel connected to every piece art of on their

walls, to feel that they have invested in an

artist’s career.

At oneofeditions, we have a growing stable

of both internationally recognised and up-

and-coming artists. Our photographers’

work is held in many public collections in the

U.K and internationally, including the V&A,

museums and galleries of Wales, as well as

many corporate and private collections.

Oneofeditions.com makes collecting

photographic art accessible by combining

the curatorial function of the gallery and

the internet. Our objective is to offer a

comfortable place to enter, view and purchase

art whenever the mood takes you.

We have two clear goals, to support both

emerging and established artists while

helping their work become more appreciated,

and to encourage society as a whole to feel

comfortable buying photographic art.

If you would like to be added to our mailing

list, please e-mail us at the address below.

[email protected]

Andrew Moxon, from the series Tales of Gloucester

Claire Richardson, untitled

Aled Hughes, The Blue Lagoon - Abereiddy


Sofa do good

PetalCurvaceous sofa

A beautiful curvaceous sofa by Jet Baker with

an outside arc that goes all the way around.

Contemporary yet timeless.

Purple is this season’s must-have colour. Be

stylish and comfortable with this luxury sofa.

£2100

www.rume.co.uk

Lo FloBy Jet BakerThe luxury sofa has a solid kiln-dried beech

and plywood frame. Quality foam cushions

as standard over webbed platform. Shallow

button detail on back cushions. Your choice

of fabric or leather. 84cm high x 205cm wide

x 86cm deep.

£1500

www.rume.co.uk

Kennedy Fabric SofabedDarlings of ChelseaGuest coming for the New Year, nowhere for them to stay? this gor-

geous sofabed will be the perfect ideal.

With removable arms and removable back, you do not even need

screws to assemble this uniquely designed sofabed.

The sofabed mechanism can be opened without removing the back

and the seat cushions.

£1115.00

www.darlingsofchelsea.co.uk

La LuneFully Curvaceous

This uber-striking sofa will add a splash of colour and will be the

talking point of any house.

A beautiful curvaceous fully upholstered couch. Deep in the seat

and high in the back.

£1800

www.rume.co.uk


Home Feature

Don’t move... improveLoft conversion

A starting point for many, the loft conversion

allows you to utilise the attic space that

most people don’t really get the most out of.

Often a conversion can be undertaken with

surprising ease and low cost, and not only

does it provide the additional space for what

most people use as an extra bedroom but it

can also create a light filled space with great

views from the top of the property. If you have

stunning views from your house which are a

major selling point then this is a fantastic way

of making the most of them in order to really

market one of your property’s best features.

Basement builds

A massive new trend in London, many home

owners are now benefiting from this extra

living space after the realisation that upwards

is not the only way. Simply building down

and renovating existing basement space has

allowed many to make use of sometimes

undesirable basements by turning them into

extra living spaces such as dining rooms

or games rooms, or even fitting in another

bedroom when space is at a premium.

Freshen up the bathroom

Storage is key for the bathroom, so think

about balancing the need to place luxury

items on display and personal bits and bobs

discretely in storage. You can also add extra

lighting such by placing small wall lights next

to your mirror in order to avoid exclusively

using the overhead light which can cast

shadows. You can also use new accessories

like a new blind, towels, mirror or artwork

to add colour and change the mood for very

little expense.

Re-evaluate the bedrooms

Why not build overhead storage or you could

even go for a walk-in wardrobe. Yes, they do

take up space in themselves but they really

help to divide the space in a bedroom into

neat, tidy and livable sections. Re-decorating

bedrooms is an obvious but effective way

of improving, with the additions of laminate

flooring, stylish wardrobes and a sink unit

with a mirror also making bedrooms much

more desirable to live and spend time in. Also

think about getting as much light through the

rooms as possible with mirrors and even a

sky light.

Build a garden studio

If you have a lovely garden then why not

spend more time in it? You can with a garden

studio that creates flexible space which can

be turned into an office, studio, playroom,

home gym or even guest room. They can be

individually designed and often don’t require

planning permission and proud owners of

a garden studio include one Delia Smith

- apparently she writes some well known

cookery books in hers!

Go green

There are many options for applying

environmentally friendly features into the

inside and outside of your property. These

include added loft insulation (there are

government grants now available to help

with the cost of this) and solar power water

heating systems which are relatively cheap

to install and start earning their cost back

straight away by saving on your energy bills.

A small herb and vegetable plot plus a small

and easily manageable compost heap for the

outside of the property are also quirky features

which you could start developing now. Some

of these are more aesthetic than functional

although most should save you money in the

long run. Also remember that information

about a property’s energy efficiency is a

mandatory part of the somewhat dreaded

Home Information Packs each property must

now have so you are scoring up in this area.

Furthermore, green is chic and it will become

ever more popular in the future.

Make a splash with a swimming pool

It may sound a bit over the top at first but

in recent years the price of building your

own swimming pool in the back garden

has dropped steadily and significantly. Just

because you don’t live in Buckingham Palace

doesn’t rule you out either - not everyone

wants an Olympic sized pool. In fact smaller,

well designed bespoke pools are now the

order of the day. And just think about it; if

you do live in a nice area a pool is definitely

something you can create which will set out

the have’s from the have not’s in your street.

Add some technology

When you do eventually move on and sell

your house remember that selling a property

is about selling a vision. With that in mind what

about setting up some simple and effective

technology to allow you to work from home?

After all, it’s all about location, but if you can’t

get close enough to the mountain, bring the

mountain to you! Setting up a comfortable

home office with a separate phone line and

internet connection is a good starting point,

which will allow you to communicate and

conference call to your heart’s content. And

that’s just the start - the multitude of modern

high-tech gadgets available for the home

can allow you to create a designer space any

technophile would love to work in!

Add sky lights or a whole or part glass roof

We’ve said it before, we’ll say it again: space

and light are so important in any property.

With that in mind more people are now

installing sky lights and even going one

further with whole or part glass roofs. Many

of us work so hard on creating open and

spacious living areas and these improvements

can really bring them to life. Think modern

open plan with beautiful interior design,

then add a glorious shower of natural sun

light illuminating the space with a warm and

comforting glow. Do you see our point?

Extend

This does of course require planning

permission but a good architect should be

able to let you know in the conception stage

how likely it is for permission to be granted.

If you do get the go ahead, one of the most

popular extensions to build at the moment

is to create a single story extension, which

annexes the gap at the back of semi-detached

houses, onto the next property. The extra

space is great for contemporary open plan

living, paving the way for more spacious,

light and airy living spaces which are now in

vogue.

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Building is an expensive business. During the recent property boom experienced in the prosperous years of a growing economy in this country, as we all know, house prices went through the roof. This meant that any type of building project was more expensive than it otherwise would have been during leaner periods, such as the recession which this country is currently in the grips of.

House prices are falling at the moment and all predictions suggest that this trend will continue for some time, and no-one has any clear and conclusive insight into when they will start to rise again. Indeed figures recently released by Land Registry showed that monthly house prices in Wales fell by 3.6 per cent in February. It is the 18th month in a row where the annual rate of change has fallen, in contrast to 21 months of uninterrupted increases in the average annual rate of change between December, 2005 and August 2007.

Coupled with the current difficulties in obtaining mortgages, this means many of you who might otherwise con-sider moving house are reluctant to move right now, particularly because of the risk of getting into negative equity on your property. With this in mind we’ve put together a feature on what the options are for those who have decided to not move and improve in stead. After all there are many varied ways in which you can add value, style and comfort to your property without breaking the bank. Here is out top 10 countdown to get you started.

With two growing children, Melissa and Stephen Morgan were faced with a dilemma: should they move or improve? The couple’s semi-detached house in the affluent Allt-Yr-Yn area of Newport, south Wales, consisted of two double rooms upstairs and one very small box room. It was proving too small to contain six-year-old Joel, eight-year-old Jasmine and their vast amount of toys.

So the pair opted to convert their once barely-used attic into a third bedroom for themselves, leaving children Jasmine and Joel with the double bedrooms on the first floor. This allowed the box room to be transformed into a family study. After ten months of hard work, careful planning and organisation, the Morgan’s previously unused loft space was transformed into an idyllic en-suite haven by Sigma 3.

How did you get to where you are today?We’re very pleased to be where we are right now and it’s taken us about 30 years of hard work and perseverance to get here. The process was slow over the first 25 years but has sped up over the last five because it wasn’t until recently that we got everything in place to enable us to advertise and back that advertising up with a good service. The business has evolved naturally from the start. We now employ 20 people and we feel we’re strong across the board and can now push ourselves forward

How have you developed your focus for the business?I was working with tools for the first 15 to 20 years, but I am no longer involved in that side of the business because we need someone to design and draw. I haven’t touched the making side of it since then but I do go into the workshop on a daily basis. The design aspect of the business has always been of maximum importance to us and being able to combine that with high-quality materials has made all the difference. The huge change came in 2001 when we opened the shop because we were able to showcase the work we were doing and get independent opinions from members of the public. 90% of the work we do– the designing, etc. – goes down on paper for the client to see before we start the process of making the product. A lot of people, however, are quite nervous to go ahead with their purchase without seeing the finished product, so we found that the shop gives us the opportunity to display our work and allow the people to see and feel the finished pieces. The shop is very personal and we like to showcase kitchens in order to inspire customers to adapt the styles shown and commission their own kitchen.

Were there any businesses on which you modelled your own?From the day that I started doing less and less with the tools, it was design – our unusual pieces in particular - that took us forward and gave us our image. We appreciate other companies’ designs and take ideas from everywhere but interpret them to fit our image. What’s great about the times we live in is that kitchen appliances and fittings are design-led. People don’t just want a cooker on which they can cook, but they want it to look good too.

What are the 4 key words of your business?Honest, quality, bespoke service.

How do you run your company?For us, it’s a group thing. Everyone works in their own way but I oversee all of the tasks with a varying degree of supervision depending on how large the job.

What’s your approach to business?I’m relaxed and a firm believer that if you stick with something, it’ll come right in the end. Giving someone a new kitchen is a surprisingly emotional process for some clients and they put a lot of trust and confidence in us, but we like to give them something to be proud of. The initial meeting with the client is just as crucial as the end result, as we have to determine what would be the best kitchen for them by the way they live and the type of people they are.

What’s the toughest business challenge you have had to face?With this size of business, employment is both a strength and a troublesome aspect. It’s challenging because they is almost always someone on holiday or dealing with family commitments, but we have a great connection with our employees.

Do you enjoy working with each other?Sian and I have been married for over 20 years now and luckily we work very well together! When business is tough and one of us has had a long day, however, it’s had to switch off as we both have the

same worries. We seek guidance from each other and when it’s going well, we really enjoy it together.

The two of you work together but what do you think makes a good business partner in general?Someone you like and trust who, within the first couple of weeks, does what they say they’re going to do.

What inspires you?The business getting better. I’m so excited about what the future holds for Quails.

Is there an arena in which you would not like to see your business?I don’t worry about the business going anywhere strange because we run it so that it won’t.

Who did you admire as a child?All my admiration was for sports people. I thought I was going to play sports for a living. I particularly admire Gareth Edwards and Barry John.

Has your choice of career cost you anything?I’ve never worked for anyone else since I did worked at a local shop when I was 16. When you’re learning and making your own mistakes, it’s a costly, torturous process. In hindsight, I would my children’s training to be paid for.

What has been your greatest achievement?We’re on a journey of achievement and still have so many aims to fulfil. We’ve come a long way from where were started and we have lot of optimism for the future. We’ve put several youngsters through apprenticeships and seen them achieve. It’s a great trade to be in.

What are your top business tips?Don’t be afraid to ask for help. It’s a hard lesson to learn, but it’s important to get advice from experienced people. Making your own mistakes along the way is a given but you needn’t struggle by yourself. Get people who are the best in their fields to provide guidance for your business.

What advice would you give to somebody who is looking to buy a new kitchen?There is such a wide range of kitchens on the market these days. Either you buy ready-made modular units or you get a kitchen made for you to exactly match your needs. For the latter option, design is key to make the kitchen suit you. Take advice from the designers rather than telling them what to do. The experience should be a pleasure no matter how much money you’re spending.

Which of your projects are you particularly proud of?We’ve produced some fantastically quirky and unique pieces over the years. I had to do a breakfast bar for a room which had a pillar in the middle of it which turned out perfectly. Some of the pieces in the showroom right now are beautiful but we’re constantly working on new projects.

Have you designed kitchens for any celebrities?Natasha Kaplinsky, Dermot Murnaghan and Matt Tebbut amongst others.

How does it feel to own a successful Welsh business?Wales is very exciting and strong but often underestimated. We’re so proud to see how it’s developing and it’s a great place to be. Keep an eye out for us this year!

Andrew & Sian Williams Better known as the proprietors of Quails of Usk incorparating Andrew Williams Cabinet Maker & Designer. This succesful couples portfolio lists a bevy of celebrities and blue chip clients.

TEL: 01291 672799

BESPOKEKITCHENSBEDROOMSSTUDIOSFREE STANDING FURNITURE

WWW.QUAILSUSK.CO.UK TELL: (01633) 271946FOR APPOINTMENT

2 CASTLE PARADE, USK, MONMOUTHSHIRE. NP15 1AA

SUB ZEROWOLFMIELEWILLIAM YEOWARD CRYSTALITALIAN PEWTER, FINE ARTFRENCH FURNITURE


Bedroom Feature

Harveys Present Timeless Bedroom Pieces For A Classic And Fresh SummerA great bedroom can be a place to re-charge; a sanctuary for rest and relaxa-tion in our busy lives. Creating peace and tranquillity through furniture that will adapt to the latest trends has never been easier with Harveys new bedroom collections.

StockbridgeThis elegant range can be simply

updated with a wide range of acces-sories from bright and light shabby chic to luxurious satin and sequin – a must have item for discerning styling.

CarmenA contemporary and classic design, sliding wardrobe doors are a practical way to maximise space. The mix of light and dark allows total flexibility with

future colour schemes whilst remaining bright and airy.

ToulouseCosy and irresistible, this timeless bed-room collection is made from reclaimed solid wood. Natural characteristics are retained in the oak, which gives each piece individuality, longevity and style.

Conservatories –

Cool Summers, Warm Winters

The addition of a conservatory to your home not only adds real value to your property but also creates a unique secondary living space. Introducing window blinds helps you create a room that is only limited by your imagination, whether as a safe and protected

play area for the children, an extended lounge for entertaining friends or just somewhere to sit and watch the world go by, your conservatory can become an extension of your personality.

Custom made window blinds are the ultimate fashion statement for conservatories that will provide pleasant shade to keep you cool in summer and also help protect your furniture all year round. With a combination of pleated, woven wood, vertical, roller, venetian and sheerlite blinds to choose from you’ll be spoilt for choice!

* Window blinds control heat and glare to help keep you cool in summer.

* High quality performance fabrics provide insulation to help keep you warmer in winter.

* Stunning designs in a variety of fabrics and colours.

* Advances fabric technology to filter light and reduce glare to help protect furniture and plants.

* Easily adjustable systems that allow you to control the lighting levels and still enjoy your garden.

* An effective way to increase privacy and security.Made-to measure to fit windows in all types of conservatories.

* Window blinds are the easiest and most efficient way of controlling lighting levels in your conservatory. Whether it’s Sunday lunch with the family, an elegant dinner party or an impromptu barbecue with friends, your new blinds will provide shade and security with the minimum of effort for the maximum effect.

Solar Sunshades Perfect Fit Window Blinds are an innovative revolutionary new blind fitting system with special features such as No Drilling or screwing into windows or walls and fantastic fit and integrated finish.

The Perfect Fit is a unique fitting system which allows blinds to be installed perfectly in double glazed sealed unit applications. The brackets slide into place and the frame locks onto the brackets to add real style to your windows, roofs and doors. Safe and secure when fitted, Solar Sunshades Perfect Fit® quickly becomes an integrated part of your windows and doors, allowing total movement as required. Skylight windows will also reap the benefits from this flexible window blind system. Whatever the shape and size of the window, Solar Sunshades Perfect Fit® roof blinds can be fitted into conservatory roof systems to provide excellent solar control without the need to drill holes or fix screws into the frame-work.

Bridge Works, Pentre Road, St Clears, Carmarthenshire

E. [email protected] W. www.gwwales.co.uk T. 01994 230384

Proud sponsors of Casa Dudley

Kitchen and Granite Worktops | Bathrooms and Tiles | Fireplaces and Stoves

Bathroom

The bathroom that works around youCreating a feeling of space

A new bathroom solution has been

launched from the Royal range

available from Splash Distribution.

The Royal 13 composition combines

freestanding and wall hung furniture to

create a feeling of space while offering the

opportunity to move parts of the bathroom

around to fit everyone’s needs.

Finished in both subtle and vibrant hues, the

Royal furniture is an elegant, sophisticated

range for the bathroom that can be given an

infusion of colour with the brighter options.

Colours include Light Oak, Cappuccino, Gloss

Lacquered White and Grey. Units can also be

contrasted with striking worktops in finishes

including Silver Crystal, Black Marble and

Light Grey Marble. Alternatively, as shown,

worktops can be toned in with the furniture

to create a softer effect.

The composition shown includes wall hung

units in orange lacquer contrasting with the

freestanding units in light oak giving a retro

feel to the bathroom design. The brighter

cabinets create a focal point and break up the

design, especially when installing in a larger

bathroom.

Freestanding storage is becoming increasingly

popular throughout the home as it can be

moved around to suit the needs of the user.

Moveable furniture also makes cleaning

easier and means that when moving house,

much of the furniture can easily be taken and

the layout adjusted to suit the new space. The

Royal 13 composition retails at around £3381

inc. VAT. For further information on this, or

any other compositions from the Royal range,

contact Splash Distribution on:

01444 473355.

£3,381

Bridge Works, Pentre Road, St Clears, Carmarthenshire

E. [email protected] W. www.gwwales.co.uk T. 01994 230384

Proud sponsors of Casa Dudley

Kitchen and Granite Worktops | Bathrooms and Tiles | Fireplaces and Stoves

This is borne out by Sigma 3’s ‘Kitchen of the future’ survey which reveals that four in ten men want more gadgets in their kitchens than ever before.

So what do men look for in their dream kitchen? State-of-the-art multimedia gadgetry is at the top of the wish list with kitchens not just the room where men knock up their favourite dishes, but integrated entertainment centres with drop down plasma screen TVs and integral audio systems.

Over one in ten lusts after a multimedia gadget such as a built-in television or MP3 player, while one in five are showing their green credentials and putting energy efficient appliances and recycling bins on their wish lists.Other popular items with men include ice-dispensing fridges (15%) and integrated water filters in taps (10%).

Paula Morris predicts that smart technology will increasingly become a standard part of the typical male kitchen:

“It’s definitely true that boys like their toys. A perfect example of a gadget designed to appeal to the busy man about town is a refrigerator with an internet screen built in above the fridge doors, complete with a bar-code-detected food stockage and ordering system.

“This means that running out of milk or sugar is a thing of the past as it detects when you are running low on a product and automatically adds it to an online shopping list. This is the ultimate labour saving device and we predict such hi-tech wizardry becoming increasingly commonplace.

“Hot new appliances for this market include dish drawers - mini dishwashers ideal for the smaller loads generated by single households - super-fast halogen ovens, filtered and instant hot water, which provide a constant supply of boiling water making it possible to make tea

Kitchens for menWith the single male household on the rise, men are demanding state-of-the art gadgetry, sleek design and a wow factor from their kitchens according to a new survey from Sigma 3.

Kitchens have traditionally been the sole preserve of the nation’s mums and wives but the kitchen of the future looks set to be a more egalitarian place for many reasons.

A new Sigma 3 survey of 2,500 people across the UK reveals that four in ten men are spending at least an hour in the kitchen every day, and a quarter spend over two hours.

Women may be mainly responsible for the cooking in over three quarters of kitchens but men are becoming more and more tempted to get their hands dirty. Market-research group Mintel suggests that British men have been inspired to put on their aprons by male celebrity chefs, such as Jamie Oliver and Gordon Ramsay.

Then there is the rise of men living alone. With married couples a minority in the adult population for the first time according to the latest figures from the Office for National Statistics, and divorce rates still high, there are currently four million single male occupancy dwellings in the UK. By 2026, 38% of all households are set to be occupied by single men.

So it’s easy to see why kitchen designers and manufacturers are clamouring to identify what men want from a kitchen and are responding with increasingly hi-tech and functional solutions to meet this growing market.

According to Paula Morris, marketing manager of Sigma 3, a company which has been designing, manufacturing and selling kitchens since 1975, the single male market is increasingly lucrative:

“Kitchens stuffed full of clever gadgets are now shown off proudly similar to the way cars always have been. Kitchens are increasingly becoming the hub of a home and men are prepared to invest significant amounts in a room that really makes a statement and will impress guests.”

Kitchens

and coffee without having to boil a kettle.”

The visual impact of the boys’ toys aside, design elements that appeal to male customers include clever use of space, easy maintenance and clean lines says Paula:

“Visually, sleek modern finishes are popular with men - things that look clean and easy to maintain with minimum fuss. Our gloss finish Avant range in cappuccino and beige is hugely popular with men as it has a strong contemporary feel. Integrated handles, as seen in our Nio range, are also popular as they create a subtle but visually appealing finish.

“Our customers are also conscious of longevity and ensuring that the kitchen will stand the test of time, so durability and substantial feeling cabinets, as well as materials such as strong granites and solid wood are also important.”

Breakfast bars are popular for those who are often eating on the run, particularly as a formal dedicated dining area is unlikely to exist in the single male household. Smart internal storage solutions that help keep surfaces clutter free are also readily embraced by men.

Paula concludes:

“The perfect male kitchen has to make a statement, and men are increasingly looking for something a bit quirky that will impress their friends. However it must also be functional and practicality is paramount. Ultimately like so many other things in life, from cars to love interests, the kitchen has to do its job and look good.”

For more inspiration log onto www.sigma3.co.uk

Kitchens


Kitchen essentials

spacefittingfurniturespacefittingfurniture, the design quarter, 145 colchester avenue, penlan, cardiff, cf23 9an

tel: 02920 455778 spacefittingfurniture.co.uk

by people... for peopleW

hen designing a kitchen the human factor plays a pivotal

role, in terms of use and development. For each family

the kitchen must simply meet numerous and entirely

different wishes and requirements for many years to

come, as it is a space for living, working and gaining new experiences.

The kitchen is an unmistakable and identifiable character to a home,

lifestyle and with a broad spectrum of accessories and appliances can

complete and guarantee practical solutions.

Individual kitchen specialist showrooms have the product knowledge

and training required for your perfect solution and should give honest,

unprejudiced advice, along side professional and unique design

ideas.

The quality and ergonomics of a kitchen should be reflected in the

build quality and versatility of the unit ranges. German kitchens have

always had a remarkable reputation for this and the technology and

innovations that are constantly being improved and advanced.

Don’t be afraid of a statement for your home, such

as the beautiful Berbel Glasline headroom extractor,

with unique sweeping Betec semi transparent safety

glass, highlighted with the illumination of energy

saving LED’s. A declaration, proving the concept, less

is more.

Log on to: spacefittingfurniture.co.uk for further

information.

Liebherr are the worlds largest privately owned

refrigerator manufacturer with the biggest range of

super A rated machines.Their technically advanced

wine storage cabinets come in 20 different models

with low vibration compressors, UV protected glass

doors, charcoal air filtration and LED lighting, The

perfect conditions for good wine, incorporating the

latest climate technology to provide precisely the right

conditions and optimum temperatures for all wines.

The trend has evolved into a contemporary, simple, open plan, interactive, social area, where family and friends can share the intimacy and

warmth of your home. Book matched woods strongly feature in many high quality kitchen ranges, mixed subtly with white or cream lacquered

gloss. Large drawers will optimise storage solutions and reduce the necessity for a large number of wall units and hence reduce the clutter that

often accumulates in the kitchen.

Multi-media systems

for kitchens are

often used, TVs

soundsystems and

computers, incorporate

work, social and family

life into one area of a

home.


FeatureKitchen essentials

spacefittingfurniturespacefittingfurniture, the design quarter, 145 colchester avenue, penlan, cardiff, cf23 9an

tel: 02920 455778 spacefittingfurniture.co.uk

by people... for peopleW

hen designing a kitchen the human factor plays a pivotal

role, in terms of use and development. For each family

the kitchen must simply meet numerous and entirely

different wishes and requirements for many years to

come, as it is a space for living, working and gaining new experiences.

The kitchen is an unmistakable and identifiable character to a home,

lifestyle and with a broad spectrum of accessories and appliances can

complete and guarantee practical solutions.

Individual kitchen specialist showrooms have the product knowledge

and training required for your perfect solution and should give honest,

unprejudiced advice, along side professional and unique design

ideas.

The quality and ergonomics of a kitchen should be reflected in the

build quality and versatility of the unit ranges. German kitchens have

always had a remarkable reputation for this and the technology and

innovations that are constantly being improved and advanced.

Don’t be afraid of a statement for your home, such

as the beautiful Berbel Glasline headroom extractor,

with unique sweeping Betec semi transparent safety

glass, highlighted with the illumination of energy

saving LED’s. A declaration, proving the concept, less

is more.

Log on to: spacefittingfurniture.co.uk for further

information.

Liebherr are the worlds largest privately owned

refrigerator manufacturer with the biggest range of

super A rated machines.Their technically advanced

wine storage cabinets come in 20 different models

with low vibration compressors, UV protected glass

doors, charcoal air filtration and LED lighting, The

perfect conditions for good wine, incorporating the

latest climate technology to provide precisely the right

conditions and optimum temperatures for all wines.

The trend has evolved into a contemporary, simple, open plan, interactive, social area, where family and friends can share the intimacy and

warmth of your home. Book matched woods strongly feature in many high quality kitchen ranges, mixed subtly with white or cream lacquered

gloss. Large drawers will optimise storage solutions and reduce the necessity for a large number of wall units and hence reduce the clutter that

often accumulates in the kitchen.

Multi-media systems

for kitchens are

often used, TVs

soundsystems and

computers, incorporate

work, social and family

life into one area of a

home.

Tel: 01656 841 942

Visit our website to see more:

www.jeremydavies.co.uk

KITCHENS

BEDROOMS

BATHROOMS

STUDIES

FREESTANDING


Starter

Super Summer Recipese all love to entertain in the comfort of our own home. To look the piece though not only do you need the right food but you also need the right setting. That’s why Welsh Living is now going to contain a regular section on kitchens and food packed full of useful bits like recipes and updates on what’s hot in the most vogue kitchen’s of the moment.

We’re starting this section with some super Summer recipes because even though fine dining in the luxury of your stylish home is the preserve of us all very few of us have the culinary skills and creativity of Gordon Ramsey to create the ecsquisite food we crave. But fear not, the delicious recipes below come curtiousy of Waitrose meaning the food is sorted!

Beetroot and Feta Parcels

These crisp, savoury parcels are easy to make and packed full of flavours. They make a great starter or midweek lunch, or try mini versions as a canapé.Preparation time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 10 minutes to 15 minutesTotal time: 20 minutes to 25 minutesMakes: 4 parcelsIngredients

8 sheets Cypressa filo pastry (chilled)½ tsp Bart Baharat spice mix40g butter, melted180g Waitrose Organic Cooked Beetroot (in the fruit and veg section)235g pack Waitrose Moroccan Couscous salad (chilled)50g Kolios Organic Feta, cubed1 tsp cumin seedsWaitrose Baby Leaf Salad, dressed to serve

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 200ºC, gas mark 6. Lay 2 of the Cypressa Fillo sheets out on a flat surface. Stir the spice mix into the melted butter. Brush a little of the flavoured butter sparingly over 1 sheet and place the other sheet on top. 2. Cut the beetroot into small chunks and place in a bowl. Add the couscous salad, feta and seasoning and mix to combine. Spoon a quarter of this mixture along 1 of the, short ends of the pastry. 3. Tuck the long edges of the pastry in to enclose the ends of the beetroot mixture, then start rolling from the short end of the pastry to make a rectangular parcel (like a plump spring roll). Brush the seam with butter to seal. Place onto a non-stick baking tray. Brush the top of the pastry with a little more butter and scatter some cumin seeds over the top. 4. Repeat with the remaining ingredients to make a further 3 parcels. Place in the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes or until golden brown and crisp. Serve with the dressed salad leaves.


Main Course

Chicken with Coriander and Pineapple Rice

The chicken in this recipe is coated in a fiesty Creole spice mix. If you prefer less bite you can reduce the amount, or serve with cooling low fat yogurt.

Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 12 minutesTotal time: 22 minutesServes: 4Ingredients

4 Waitrose Chicken Breast Fillets (about 500g)1 tbsp Bart Creole spice mix2 x 250g packs Tilda Steamed Pure Basmati Rice250g pack freshly prepared pineapple (chilled), diced20g pack fresh coriander, finely chopped

3 salad onions, trimmed and finely chopped1 green chili, deseeded and finely chopped170g tub Waitrose Supreme Salsa (chilled), to serve

Method1. Preheat the grill to its highest setting. Using a sharp knife, score each chicken breast 3 times. Place the chicken and spice mix in a freezer bag and seal the top. Toss the meat in the spices until evenly coated.2. Place the chicken under the grill and cook for 6 minutes on each side until the juices run clear when pierced with a sharp knife, and the meat is cooked through.3. Meanwhile, cook the rice according to pack instructions. Tip into a mixing bowl. Add the pineapple, coriander, salad onion and chilli to the rice, mix and season.4. Serve the chicken sliced on a bed of the warm rice salad, with some salsa.


Dessert

Mango and Praline Sundae

Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 5 minutesTotal time: 20 minutes

Serves: 4

Ingredients

¼ tsp vegetable oil1 Waitrose Perfectly Ripe Mango1 tbsp icing sugar, sifted½ x 250g tub Galbani Mascarpone Light150g Total 0% Fat Free Greek Strained Yoghurt4 tbsp golden granulated sugar25g Wholesome Pistachios, roughly chopped500ml tub Waitrose Seriously Fruity Alphonso Mango Sorbet

Method

1. Lightly grease a small non-stick baking tray with the oil. Peel the mango then, using a sharp knife, roughly cut the flesh away from the stone. 2. Place the mango in a food processor with the icing sugar. Blitz briefly to make a textured purée. Add the mascarpone and Total Yoghurt to the processor and blitz again to combine. 3. To make the praline, cook the sugar in a heavy-based non-stick frying pan on a medium heat for 2-3 minutes until melted and translucent, without stirring. Add the pistachios to the pan and coat in the melted sugar. Kepp on the heat for a further 1-2 minutes until the sugar is bubbling and has turned caramel brown. Pour onto a baking tray and set aside to cool. Once cooled, use a spatula to ease the caramel off the baking tray. Place in a freezer bag and break up with a rolling pin. 4. Starting with the mango sorbet, layer all the ingredients alternately into 4 sundae glasses to create several layers, ending with a praline layer, then serve.


How would you describe yourselves?

Reassuring, professional, friendly and stylish.

What is InteriorsEtc… about?

“Bringing style home”. Our aim is to make interior design accessible to all, regardless of budget, creating stylish and practical interiors for our clients. From just a few cushions to a whole house, we listen, create and deliver schemes which reflect our clients tastes not ours.

What inspires you?

Bethan: I am inspired when travelling, particularly to India and South America; when visiting art galleries and through film. I enjoyed the recent series ‘Mad Men’ for its take on iconic 50s design.

Simon: I take inspiration from architecture, especially classical Palladio style, and gardens with their constantly evolving structure and texture. For simple elegance from fashion to furniture, Armani never fails to impress.

Do you have one particular success of which you are most proud?

We’re proud of all our work. Success comes from knowing we’ve met the needs of our clients, by providing a tailored approach to match their lifestyles.

What’s next for you?

Working with St Peter’s Hospice to create a warm and welcoming family room for relatives of patients. Our ability to work within tight budgets where necessary was part of why this charity chose us.

Last item you bought?

Bethan: Alessi Beba nite light, for my soon to arrive niece. Having provided a design solution for the nursery, I wanted to include this for her to grow up with a design classic.

Simon: The most amazing silver napkin rings designed by award winning welsh silversmith and jeweller, Suzie Horan. They bring a contemporary wow effect to the dining room.

I couldn’t live without?

Bethan: My ultra stylish Apple MacBook. I can download my music, catch up with emails to friends and shop. And my car of course!

Simon: My Nespresso coffee machine – nothing comes close. I now find myself returning home for coffee after going out for dinner!

My perfect day?

Bethan: A day at a luxurious and relaxing spa, followed by drinks and dinner with friends.

Simon: Lunch with my partner in a European city followed by an evening at the Opera, preferably somewhere grand like La Scala in Milan.

For more information log on to:www.interiors-etc.co.uk

Welcome to this issue’s column where we will bring you the latest trends and offerings available for your home. We will capture the best products on the market today which we love and will hopefully inspire you to bring style into your home. We have also added a Q&A for you, the reader, to get a better idea of who we are.

Simon Atkins & Bethan Perrin

The sophistication of Romo’s new Grandis wallcoverings. Grand scale

classical damasks fuse with bold contemporary geometrics in this

exciting new collection. Soft velvety flocks and shimmering metallics

give sumptuous texture and a spectacular finish to these opulent designs.

InteriorsEtc… particularly loves the Laurito Shadow pictured, perfect for

creating a dark and daring feature in your home. Available at InteriorsEtc…

at £48.75 per 10m roll.

1

2

3

Continue the dark and daring theme with Ikea’s Trollsta sideboard. With its

cable management system it’s perfect for hiding away all those gadgets

and DVD’s that clutter up your living room or adding a touch of glamour to

the dining room where you can store all your dust free dinner plates. Also

available in yellow, for those of you with a more adventurous side! At just

£194.77 it’s a design statement which won’t break the bank.

For a fresh floral approach the new Pompadour collection from Osborne

& Little captures all the romance and drama of one of King Louis XV’s

most influential mistresses, the Marquise de Pompadour. The collection’s

metallic overtones are bang on trend with a mixture of linens and silks

which appear to have been magically gilded with precious metals.

InteriorsEtc… loves the Soubise, a rose bouquet in the shape of a paisley

teardrop, printed in relief in silver on pure linen with a fine metallic dusting.

Available at InteriorsEtc… at £65 per metre.

In the next issue look forward to sumptuous silks, blissful bathrooms, the latest collections from the leading design houses and what we love on the High Street. Don’t miss it…

This month InteriorsEtc loves...

1

2

3

As spring approaches and we say goodbye to dreary greys and heavy layers, it’s time to look at the must-haves for spring and summer. The high street truly flourishes in the spring as it becomes packed with summer trends that have been showcased on the catwalk for a fraction of the price. But which ones should you follow? Take advice from Talbot Green Shopping Park’s fashionista and you’ll be skipping with confidence into spring and gliding smoothly into summer.

Spring into fashion atTalbot Green Shopping Park

Denim is backThis spring, denim is back. Distressed, ripped, coloured; all types of denim have hijacked the catwalks – just team your favourite pair with a boyfriend blazer and some sky-scraper heels for that effortlessly stylish look that will work for any occasion. The denim dress is firmly on the fashion radar; this crochet denim dress from Next is a must-have that plays it safe, but for those wanting to make the most of the 80s acid wash revival then this dress from River Island is essential for creating that on trend dishevelled chic look.

Blossoming floralsSay goodbye to body-skimming, figure hugging skirts, as this season volume is key. The Lanvin and Louis Vuitton runways are blossoming with tulip skirts. Wear it with a slim or structured top and team with heeled boots to complete the look. This look suits every shape, whether you want to hide a multitude of sins or create an illusion of heavenly curves. Florals are vital to this look so embrace your inner-girl. Head to Miss Selfridge for a range of daring brights in floral prints like this gorgeously feminine dress, Dorothy Perkins also has a great floral range including this spring dress that would be perfect for weddings or summer parties.

Time to Clash Step out of your comfort zone and brave spring’s newest love, clashing. Whether it’s kooky Aztec prints, liquorice-allsort stripes or budding florals, team them together to create wonderful, trendy chaos. Patterns and prints were fine for 2008, but for 2009 it has stepped up a notch. Designers such as Marni and Michael Kors teamed unexpected patterns together, creating a fresh, contemporary look. There’s no denying this can be quite tricky to pull off, but why not have a go? Try clashing patterns with similar hues to start and then just let go and clash, clash, clash. You’ll be spoilt for choice in Topshop for all the colour blocking you need, this vest is bang on trend, and will set you on your way to becoming wonderfully mismatched. Marks and Spencer has some fabulously bold pieces, match this fantastic fuchsia dress with this gloriously yellow clutch for a colour clash statement look.

Face it To finish off your new look, head to Boots to stock up on the new spring beauty palettes. There are two options for you this season – play it safe with pretty petals or go all out with electric 80s. For a natural, feminine look use sheer lip tints that give a dewy finish, rather than high gloss. The key product for this look is blusher to create a soft and pretty glow. This look will instantly transform dull winter skin into a vision of an English rose. But if you fancy standing out from the crowd then channel the 80s look with brave and bright colours. From fuchsia lips, electric blue eyes and Satsuma nails, the 80s are back with a bang. Ditch the black kohl and trade it in for some eye-popping colour. If the thought of electric blue makes your eyes water, go for a cool lilac, which is much more forgiving. Lips, like eyes, are all about being beautifully bold, orange, fuchsia and pink are adorning the lips of fashionistas – just make sure you opt for mascara and little else and let your lips do the talking. So remember ladies, it’s one or the other, the decision is yours!

Cowboys and Indians If you’re looking for a more Wild, Wild West look, than preppy chic, then this season is for you. Cropped jackets, dresses, sandals and leather satchels have been smothered in fringes as designers take inspiration from the Rodeo. Whether it’s subtle, sophisticated strands, or floor-length works of art, fringing is here to stay. To bring out the cowgirl in you, try a checked dress from Next with feather-adorned hair and a fringed bag and sandals and you’ll be ready to saddle up.

The low down on Talbot Green Shopping Park:

Talbot Green Shopping Park has everything you could need to spring clean your wardrobe, with high street fashion stores including River Island, Outfit, Marks and Spencer, Next and TK Maxx where you’ll find the essentials for any spring/summer wardrobe

The Park offers the best of the high street, without the hassle, with easy and convenient parking and all the shops in one place, which means you can concentrate on the job in hand – finding that perfect outfit!

With most stores open until at least 8pm during the week it’s a great place to head to after a hard day’s work for a spot of well-earned retail therapy. Whether it’s to grab a last minute outfit for a night out or a capsule wardrobe for a weekend away.

Or alternatively make a day of it with friends to refresh your entire wardrobe! You can take a break in Starbucks, Marks and Spencer’s Café Revive or Pizza Hut to enjoy a pick me up before heading out for the second round of fashion fun.

Talbot Green Shopping Park is just off junction 34 of the M4 at Llantrisant.

For more fashion advice log onto www.talbotgreen.com


Feature

Treetop living

Built on a beautiful private estate in Athens, Greece, this spectacular

treehouse is the height of luxury and includes a host of fun, high-tech

gadgetry.

Design Brief: To create a ‘James Bond’ style treehouse hide away for

the client’s children.

The Treehouse:

As every secret agent knows, security is essential! To make sure there

will be no undesirable visitors, this treehouse features a state-of-the-

art biometric security system, including the latest fingerprint locks. In

addition there is a bespoke CCTV system, which controls five ultra

sharp, colour night vision cameras. Each camera is positioned to cover

an entrance or exit to the treehouse. The control centre allows the user

to move and zoom the cameras and take still shots and video footage

of any intruders!

On the inside the treehouse features a kitchenette, toilet and large

living area that is host to a wealth of cutting-edge, ‘James Bond’ style

technology, including plasma plates, digital photo frames, and a flat

screen TV and games consoles.

Guide Price: £100k – £150k

Completion Time: 10 weeks

The word ‘treehouse’ automatically conjours up visions of a wooden pallet strapped and lodged to a tree trunk but Welsh Living has uncovered a luxurious world of tree top living. Over the following pages we showcase treehouses from around the world. With many thanks to “Blue Forest Exclusive Tree Houses & Eco-lodges” (www.blueforest.com) the people who designed and built these stunning treehouses.


Treehouses

Cliffside Lodge (Above)

The luxury treehouse & lodge are set in a truly magical private garden surrounding the clients’ charming thatched home dating back to 1886. The buildings have been designed to reflect the setting and character of this exquisite house and garden. Access to the tree house is via a dramatic rope bridge leading from the second floor veranda of the property to the main deck. Both structures incorporate a traditional thatched roof and handmade doors and windows. Internally, they are fully lined with western red cedar and feature low profile recessed halogen lighting.

Guide Price: £50k – £100k (per unit)


Living the Highlife - Hertforshire (Right)

This large project features two luxurious treehouses, a dramatic canopy walkway and a bespoke adventure play area and assault course

Design Brief: To design and build an exclusive treehouse complex that will provide both a unique venue to entertain friends as well as an adventurous and exciting place for the children to play.

The Adults’ Treehouse Lodge: The exterior finish of the adults’ treehouse lodge includes our signature style thatched roof. The walls are clad in hand-split oak shingles and cedar tongue and groove boards. On the inside the treehouse features a bespoke kitchenette, toilet and a large living area that provides plenty of space for garden & dinner parties.

The Children’s Fantasy Treehouse: To make sure the kids are occupied we have designed a spectacular fairytale treehouse featuring three separate medieval towers, connecting rope bridges and even a trap door which leads to a games room complete with a Plasma TV and games console. The treehouse is connected via a rope bridge to a 70 metre zip wire which lands at the start of an exciting assault course.

Guide Price: £150K+ (project includes 2 tree house units)



Treehouses

momentumin the business of great design“The best supplier of contemporary furniture in Wales and the South West”

Aper • B&B Italia • Flos Lighting • Foscarni • Flexform • Kartell • Knoll • mooi • Porro • vitra • Gallotti and Radice •

31 Charles Street, Cardiff, CF10 2GAt: 029 2023 6266e: [email protected]: www.momemtumcardiff.com


Amberley Castle Treehouse

This treehouse was created on behalf of one of Britain’s most romantic hotels, Amberley Castle, nestled in the lee of the lovely South Downs. Hauntingly beautiful and hidden away for nearly 900 years, Elizabeth I and Charles II have slept within the mighty 60-foot walls of this, England’s only medieval castle hotel.

The design Brief:To create a beautiful and luxurious treehouse that reflects the romance and architecture of Amberley Castle Country Hotel. The treehouse must be suitable for year round use, primarily as a hide away for the hotel’s guests but also as a multi-purpose venue; for corporate entertainment, meals, weddings and private functions.

The Treehouse:The finished Blue Forest treehouse features solid oak gothic arched windows and doors, a traditional water-reed thatched roof and rustic hand-split oak shingle and cedar exterior. Internally, the treehouse is fully lined with western red cedar and features low profile recessed halogen lighting and a beautiful oak floor. Access is gained via an elegant spiral staircase leading to a second deck and feature rope bridge. The treehouse commands spectacular views over the nearby lake and wildlife haven and is an ideal place for guests to watch the wildlife, relax or enjoy a cup of afternoon tea. The venue can also be hired for private functions and dinners.

Guide Price: £50k – £100kCompletion Time: 9 weeks

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To help you make the most fashionable garden this summer with minimum effort.By Garden Designer Stella Caws.

1. Create a terrace space for sitting or dining out. Concerns about water runoff and flooding are making permeable surfaces more popular. Gravel and crazy paving with alpines in the gaps are the fashionable terraces of the moment.

2. Shade is important for when the sun gets too hot. An arbour, gazebo or summerhouse can create a beautiful focal point in the garden as well as providing a shady retreat.

3. Buy or refurbish garden furniture and put out of seats, tables, and BBQ to encourage people out into the garden.

4. For a fast floral makeover fill the garden with pots of summer flowers. Lilies are the most dramatic, with huge perfumed trumpets. ‘Stargazer’ is my favourite.

5. Prune spring and summer flowering shrubs as soon as their flowers finish.

6. Beat the credit crunch by growing your own crunchy salad crops. Radish, lettuce, carrots and spring onions can all be sown and harvested in succession through out the spring and summer.

7. Plant a tree to help to reduce your carbon footprint and encourage wildlife. Don’t forget to water if the weather gets hot and dry.

8. Artificial grass is now officially fashionable. Get rid of the mower and replace the lawn with this ‘almost no maintenance’, all weather surface.OR9. Grow a meadow. Let an area of the grass grow long and introduce native wild flowers such as dog daisies and cornflowers to create a wildlife rich oasis.

10. Roses are the nation’s favourite flower - with good reason. Beautiful flowers all summer long and heady perfume. If you only have room for one try ‘The Pilgrim’. It has double flowers of the palest yellow with a delicious fragrance and can be grown as a shrub or climber.

Stella Caws BSc MA MLI MSGD is a Royal Horticultural Society Gold Medal winner and garden designer based in Chepstow. Tel 01291 629325 www.stellacaws.com

10 Top Garden Tips for Summer 2009

It’s been an exciting process over the last few months with our family portrait competition bringing entries by the sackful to Welsh Living HQ.

However, we are now pleased to announce that a winner has been chosen at random from all the entries received.

Congratulations to Andrea Cahill from Abergavenny who is the lucky winner of this fabulous family portrait session which also includes a dvd slideshow and proof book of the images, a personal post-session consultation and £100

worth mounted desk-images.

Andrea will be enjoying their Hazel Hannant Photography experience within the next month, so watch this space to see the results of their fun and lively session in the next issue.

We would also like to thank all of you who took the time to enter this competition. Should you wish to find out more about Hazel Hannant Photography, check out their website: www.hazelhannant.co.uk.

`C

Portrait Competition: We have found our winner! ha

St Briavels, Gloucestershire

Country estate in rural, private locationSet on the edge of the popular village of St Briavels, with its excellent amenities and easy access to major road networks, this is the ideal opportunity to acquire a superb five bedroomed, four reception property with five self-contained holiday cottages, extensive ancillary buildings, beautiful grounds and parkland with two lakes.

£995,000 Approximately 10 acres

The Narth, Monmouthshire

Stone property with panoramic views Providing peace & tranquillity, this quirky, detached stone cottage with its own long private driveway, stands in a secluded plot. Requiring some updating, the versatile accommodation has much potential & offers three/four beds, three recs, large conservatory & granny annexe. With impressive gardens & extensive parking. £499,995 Approximately 2 acres

Llanrothal, Herefordshire

Small country estate in Monnow ValleyThis 4 bed farmhouse has an adjacent single storey office building, a 3 bed barn conversion with attached barn as well as planning permission for a single storey building and an additional courtyard, designed as a stable block. The whole complex would be suitable for running a number of businesses from, including holiday lets.


Argoed Farm Estate, Monmouthshire

Country cottage in historic settingThis lovely three bed property is one of only three in this prestigious and private location. Nestling in its own secluded, walled gardens and accessed via a private, tree lined driveway, this immaculate, five reception home comes with right of access to the Estate’s extensive, sheltered grounds, which include an arboretum and a lake.£680,000

Monkswood, Usk

Beautifully presented converted barnRurally located, with magnificent countryside views, yet within easy reach of the major road networks, this characterful conversion was carried out to the highest standard to provide a spacious four bedroomed family home with potential to create a further two bedrooms if required. With stable block, ménage & double garage.


Whitebrook, Monmouthshire

Delightful cottage in sought after areaNestled high in the popular village of Whitebrook, within easy reach of the major road networks, is this tastefully renovated and extended four bedroom cottage. Sunnybank has great charm and character, together with mature gardens and sun terraces, which take full advantage of its elevated aspect.

£330,000

ESTEPONA, SPAIN

DON’T MISS THIS AMAZING OPPORTUNITY!

This lovely frontline golf property overlooking the 18th tee and 17th green on Estepona Golf Course has two/three bedrooms and a private pool. A particular feature of the property is a cane and felt roofed rustic chiringuito, situated next to the pool. It houses a granite bar, fridge freezer, oven, hob and cold water sink. The dining area is for 10 or more and is ideal for parties. The 7m x 4m pool is attractively designed with semi circular steps leading into it. It has two under water lights operated from the dining room. The patio extends onto a spacious lawned garden with mature plants either side, and palm trees fringing the fenced perimeter directly overlooking the golf course.

The villa is one of the few to have rear-stepped access to a path leading directly to the Golf Club. The garden has a computerized sprinkler system for timed automatic watering.

The bank valuation of this property is €485,000 but it is being offered for a spectacularly low price due to bereavement.

€290,000

This property is on the market with Roscoe Rogers & Knight, 3 Agincourt Square,

Monmouth, NP25 3BT

www.roscoerogersandknight.co.ukTel: 01600 772929 Fax: 01600 714418

Associated Park Lane Office: Tel 0207 318 7056

So Jane, tell us about exactly what you do.My husband and I work with the local authority to care for children. We care for children who are under the age of seven years old for anything from around two to three weeks to 16 months,

that’s the longest period over which we’ve cared for a child.

Is your role to parent the child, be a responsible adult or both?Yes, you are a replacement parent to a certain extent but having said that often the children we care for are still in touch with their birth family so there’s contact between them, sometimes that’s in our own home. We are also involved in things like the child’s care plan and reviews as part of a team which looks after the child. We work in partnership with Social Services, the child’s family and other professionals, depending on the child’s needs.

Is facilitating contact between the child and its family difficult?It all depends on the circumstances. With some children the contact is supervised, which can be done by a Social Worker at your home or out somewhere. Other contact doesn’t involve supervision so the child’s family can just come and pick them up, take them out and then bring them back later.

Why do you foster?For me personally it’s very rewarding to help address a child’s needs and see them change and it’s of course very rewarding to see the outcome at the end whether that means them going back home or being placed somewhere

else. Sometimes when we foster a child it’s just a case of taking them for a while to give the family a break and some time to straighten themselves out so that the child can go back to them. On the other hand sometimes it can be more complicated than that. It varies which means that it’s interesting and rewarding.

Why do you think other people should come forward and foster?I can only go on my experience but I’ve found it very rewarding. Obviously there is a need for foster careers and if you enjoy spending time with young children and you feel you have something to offer then that’s another reason why you should do it.

What advice would you give to anyone interested in becoming a foster carer?The first thing to do is to get in touch with the local council. You then go through a process of assessments which evaluate your suitability to find it whether it really is for you.

What are the best bits and the worst bits?Sometimes it can be an invasion of your home, particularly if there’s contact between the child and it’s family in your home two or three times per week. You have to plan your week around the child and any contact that is arranged, you can’t just go out when you want to, so that can be difficult sometimes. In terms of the best bits I just love being with young children and seeing them grow and work through any problems they have, it’s just so rewarding.

Welsh Living caught up with foster carer Jane Ingrouille recently to ask her about her role. Along with her husband Rod, Jane has been caring for young children in their Chepstow home for four and a half years.

What is like to be a foster carer?

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TREEHOUSE IS BACK

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Having a major hand in songwriting... The songs that were being suggested to me just didn’t feel right. Someone had written a song with me in mind called ‘You Look Good in my T-shirt’ but I felt that’s not what I should be singing about, young listeners would be asking why I was singing about T-Shirts!

The result...It’s been a very intimate album because I have been so much more involved in writing the songs and I am very honest about it. When I go on stage and perform one of the songs I have written from 24 Hours I tell the audience about it.

His favourite track....‘Seasons’ is my favourite track on the album as it’s very stripped down and bare especially when you’re performing it live. It begins with just my voice and the piano-you could hear a pin drop! It’s very intimate, it’s like baring your soul on stage.

His continued popularity...I’m very versatile so can adapt to many styles. I don’t think the structure of pop music has changed that dramatically over the years although sounds, ways and means of production have — the spectrum is very wide, producers pull from all sorts of sources now.

Returning to Pontypridd...I have been back a couple of times but it’s hard to stay low-key. You really need to get a group of guys, one who doesn’t drink so they can drive, and do a pub crawl because once you go into one pub it’s not long before you have to move on!

Going out to the pub with the younger generation...I was at the Q awards the other week and Alex from the Artic Monkeys had asked if I was going to the pub afterwards. I had said yes, he said if Î was going then he was too! He’d been talking to me about one of my old songs from the 70’s- ‘I’ll Never Fall in Love Again’- how he liked the vocals, which is very flattering and nice to hear.

Tom Jones is appearing in the CIA 9th & 10th October 2009. The new album ‘24 Hours’ is out now.

Quickfire Round

What did you have for breakfast this morning? Poached eggs on toast.

First thing you think of when you wake up? Thankful that I’m alive.

Last thing you think of before you go to sleep? Thankful for everything I’ve got.

First thing you do when you’ve got time off work? Relax by the pool at my house in LA.

First great piece of advice that you were given? To always do what you love doing, when I was a boy working in a factory n Wales I remember an older guy telling me that and it made me think that I really need to use my God-given talent.

Early influences? Big voiced singers like Frankie Vaughn and Mahalia Jackson, rock n roll pioneers like Jerry Lee Lewis, Bill Haley, Little Richard, Elvis, and American boogie and blues artists like Big Bill Broonzy and Big Joe Turner – there’s so many influences as it was a very rich time and the BBC played it all.

Tom Jones On...

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