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Beautiful Home ISSUE 2 – 2009 Magazine LIFESTYLE DESIGN TRENDS GARDENS SHOPPING STYLE FUTURISTIC FANTASY KEEPING IT SMALL and SIMPLE Expert ADVICE and SERVICES directory THE MAGIC OF children’s rooms WIN CUTTING-EDGE fittings for your home CONTEMPORARY CHIC with a touch of class CLIVE CHRISTIAN timeless elegance

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Page 1: Beautiful Home Magazine Issue 002

Beautiful HomeISSUE 2 – 2009

Magazine

LIFESTYLE DESIGN TRENDS GARDENS SHOPPING STYLE

FUTURISTICFANTASY

KEEPING IT SMALLand SIMPLE

Expert ADVICE andSERVICES directory

THE MAGIC OFchildren’s rooms

WIN CUTTING-EDGEfittings for your home

CONTEMPORARYCHICwith

a touch of class

CLIVE CHRISTIANtimeless elegance

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he transition from summer to autumn istraditionally a time for renewal and settingnew objectives. This is certainly the case at

Bespoke Media – publishers of Beautiful Homeand Society Living. The success of the magazines,launched in spring, has prompted us to open well-appointed, and conveniently located, new officesin the La Colonia commercial plaza at the westernend of San Pedro de Alcántara.

Society Living is now consolidated as themost widely read lifestyle magazine for English-speaking expatriates on the Coast; and thislatest edition of Beautiful Home builds on thepopularity of the launch issue as a veritable biblefor home owners wanting to stay abreast oflatest trends in decoration and general property-orientated services.

At the same time, of course, we are wellaware of the difficult times facing manybusinesses. With that in mind, and afterconversations with clients and associates, wedecided to amend the publishing schedule ofBeautiful Home for the next year: we will nowpublish the magazine on a quarterly basis(Society Living remains monthly).

This decision was made primarily to easeclients’ budgetary pressures over the comingyear. Unfortunately the home interest marketremains seriously affected by the economicdownturn but we know advertisers are still keento maintain their promotions in the local area. Tothat end, we are already working with clients oncreating less intensive schedules over the nextfew months.

Our personalised marketing support willremain constant throughout the year and we willbe printing a further 5,000 copies per issue toensure the magazine is visible throughout thequarterly period. We will also be able todedicate even more time to working with clientson new features and sections.

In the meantime, we hope you find this issueuseful in providing creative ideas and valuabletips for the home. Our cover, once again shotlocally by photographer CJ Hadlow, featuresformer Miss Ireland and model Louise Doheny(fashion designer and owner of Starlet) in astunning El Corte Inglés bedroom – the kind ofstate-of-the-art furnishings that highlight theCoast’s ongoing position at the forefront ofcontemporary interior decoration.

No 2 – 2009

PublisherAndy Clark

[email protected]

Advertising DirectorFay Jones

[email protected]. 617 651 732

Advertising RepresentativeLisa Mitten

[email protected]

[email protected]

Production Opus 1 Design

[email protected]

[email protected]

Features EditorJessica White

[email protected]

Contributing EditorsSamantha Jones, Peter Leonard

ContributorsTrish Dynes, Nicola McGeorge

Cover photographPhotography by Cj Hadlow

PhotographersCJ Hadlow, Conrad Jones,

Ruth Jones, David Toms

Beautiful Home is publishedquarterly by:

Bespoke Media S.L.CIF: B92998483

Local No 25-26, C.C. La ColoniaSan Pedro de Alcántara

29670 Marbella Tel. 952 784 207

www.beautifulhomemagazine.com

Printer P&R Grafis

Tel. 952 667 788www.prgrafis.es

The views and opinions expressed by contributors to BeautifulHome may not represent the views and opinions of the publishers.

Bespoke Media takes no responsibility for claims made inadvertisements or advertorials in this magazine.

No part of Beautiful Home may be reproduced or copied in any waywithout the prior written consent of Bespoke Media.

T

Beautiful HomeMagazine

Moving forward with renewed optimism

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editorial

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Beautiful HomeMagazine

No 2 – 2009

Contents

cover lookDress – Amen

Shoes – Moschino

Bag – El Corte Ingles collection

Accessories – Swarovski

All Available at El Corte Inglés

All Bedroom furniture andaccessories available atEl Corte Inglés, El Capricho

Photography – CJ Hadlow:Tel. 622 227 006 Alter Ego Productions

Model – Louise Doheny ownerof Starlet: Tel. 952 907 601;

Make up and hair – Georgina Shaw,with assistants Gabi and Daniela,from the Fox Me Up team:Tel. 678 188 063;

Stylist – El Corte Inglés personalshopper Francesca Sellitri:Tel. 679 673 555

Cover coordination by: NicolaMcGeorge and Jessica White

budget corner68 How to set up a practical

herb garden

property file70 Exotic luxury in a select

beach setting

art file72 An eclectic and versatile

artistic vision

specialistadvice74 Authoritative tips from the

experts

competition76 Win great prizes for

your home

businessdirectory78 Key services & products

design ideas08 Eye-catching insight into

avant-garde style

12 State-of-the-art gadgets andelectronics updates

trend españa14 Creating a magical

children’s room

42 Simplicity and clarity forsmaller homes

inspired living20 Futuristic fusion of nature

and technology

50 Mediterranean elegance incelestial setting

designerin focus30 Clive Christian: creating the

heart of the home

36 Kelly Hoppen:Inspirational and innovative

style now61 An intimate look at three

designers’ own bedrooms

cool gardens66 Adding a new dimension to

landscaping

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HAND-CARVED BEAUTYWhether it’s to sunbathe or simply relax by thepool, there is nothing better than lying on aluxurious, comfortable bed and wiling away theday. Chill Out Beds provide outdoor beds for allclimates in numerous styles and colours. Madefrom solid hardwood timbers the beds are sureto last more than just one season in the sun and,as they are available in many shapes and sizes,there is always one to fit into your outdoorspace. These Balinese benches are individuallyhard-carved by skilled craftsmen in Bali and aremade from Indonesian redwood. Incrediblystrong, heavy and striking, there are four modelsavailable including the Balinese chaise lounge,the double wave day bed, the roll top day bedand the roll top bed. These “contemporary,stylish outdoor wooden beds” will look great onany terrace or garden area, ensuring relaxationand comfort to the max.www.chilloutbeds.com

design ideasSTRIKING AND INNOVATIVE CONCEPTS TO GIVE YOUR FAVOURITE ROOM,OR CORNER OF THE HOME, A STUNNING AND ORIGINAL NEW LOOK

COMPILED BY JESSICA WHITE

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RELAX AND ENJOYThere really is no better way to end a longstressful day than by relaxing in a hot tub in thecomfort of your own home (or garden).Aquapool have a fantastic range of spasincluding the Sanum models designed by well-known Belgium architect Wim Segers. There arethree spas in the collection: the Hot Springmodels are finished in weather-resistant naturalteak combined with high-grade stainless steel;while state-of-the-art features and exclusivetechnology complete the luxurious spas. So sitback, relax and enjoy a glass of vino in yourdeluxe hot tub.www.aquapool.es

design ideas

DESIGNS WITH FLAIRIt is always hard finding the exact piece offurniture to fit into a room perfectly and reflectyour tastes and design. At BoConcept they canhelp you create a new piece of furniture that hasthe exact measurements, your vision and yourdesign. Their motto is, “No room is too small.No room is too restricted. No limits inBoConcept.” And that certainly is clear whenvisiting one of their many stores. The skilledinterior decorators and design consultants listento what the client wants and understands whatthe client needs for their specific rooms.Challenging the boundaries of designBoConcept allow you to create your ideal room,whether it be a small, medium or large space,and reflect your personality.www.boconcept.es

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design ideas

CREATIVE HEATINGThis new design of heater is the perfectaccessory for outdoor living – something all ofus are doing at this time of year. With the nightsnow drawing in and slowly cooling down, therecomes a time when we need a little heat to keepus warm while enjoying dinner on the terrace ordrinks under the stars. Available in differentcolours and made in a high quality of stainlesssteel this patio heater, from Pias Chimeneas, isstylish, classic and a little more chic than theusual “mushroom” heaters. Whereas they onlygive heat from the top downwards, the newdesign distributes heat in all directions aroundthe glass cylinder and gives light as well as heat– another big advantage for those with onlya few outdoor lights.www.pias-chimeneas.com

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CONTEMPORARY CREATIONSWhen the sun is beating down in the middle ofthe day and it’s too hot to sit indoors then someshade outside is exactly what is needed. TheShade Sail Company offers beautiful andcontemporary designs in shade sails that lookspectacular. The combination of tension in thesails and the curved design means that littlesupport structure is required and it can beinstalled into any part of the garden and takendown when not needed. With the triangular sailsit is usually best to use two or more to increasethe size of the shade. They are made from a newproduct that is self-cleaning and requires very littlemaintenance, withstanding winds of 100kph.www.theshadesailcompany.com

design ideas

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STATE-OF-THE ART AUTOMATION, CONSUMERELECTRONICS, HIGH-TECH UPDATES AND NEWS FROM AROUND THE GLOBE

GADGETS AROUNDTHE HOUSE

home tech

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New dimension in timeThis is Qlocktwo, the fourth dimension squared.A clock that tells time in words, it has a quadraticmatrix of letters, some of them illuminated. Thetime is displayed as text in five-minute intervals.If you need to have a more exact time, look inthe corner at the illuminated dots.www.qlocktwo.com

Memorable espresso experienceThis award-winning espresso maker uses hotwater from your kettle – you supply the pressurefor a great espresso. It needs no electricity and iseasy to clean.www.presso.co.uk

Stunning soundsZikmu wireless hi-fi speakers have beencreated by top designer Philippe Stark.You can connect your iPod, iPhone (via thebuilt-in dock, aux) or even your computerwirelessly (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth) to the speakersto play your desired tracks.www.parrot.com

Mood lightingPhilips LivingColors is an innovativeLED light with an intuitive remotecontrol that enables you to createyour own ambience through the useof colour and light.www.philips.co.uk

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home tech

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Fluid technologyThe new Triflow tap by Zaha Hadid takes

inspiration from the fluid movement of water.Already unique to the three-way Triflow tap is

the technology woven effortlessly into its design– namely the extra internal tube that allows

treated drinking water to be delivered through aseparate waterway, thus avoiding contamination

from the hot and cold tap water.www.triflowconcepts.com

Safe and secureThis intuitive product dubbed the NumlockHandle features a numbered dial-lock that re-shuffles and locks itself after every successfulentry, to stop unwanted people from coming in.www.yankodesign.com

Sleek and modern Bang & Olufsen have brought out this sleekalarm clock that allows you to wake up to itsBeotime discreet chime or the sound of yourfavourite TV programme, radio station or pieceof music. It has built-in motion sensors andsubtle automatic backlighting to bring you amodern-day alarm clock.www.bang-olufsen.com/beotime

Bugatti Vera KettleThe Bugatti electric kettle Vera complementsyour relaxation time with elegance and technicalinnovation. A special electronic controlequipped with all functions allows the kettle Veraby Bugatti to reach the desired watertemperature (between 45°C and 100°C), andguarantees consistent and efficient heating forthe preparation of every hot drink.www.casabugatti.it

COMPILED BY DAN OPUS 1 – IF YOU HAVE ANEW GADGET ON THE MARKET AND WOULDLIKE IT CONSIDERED FOR INCLUSION IN THISSECTION. SEND INFORMATION (MAX. 50WORDS) AND A HIGH-RESOLUTION IMAGE TO:[email protected]

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AS TRISH DYNES DISCOVERS… FEW TASKS CAN BEAS DELIGHTFUL OR DAUNTING AS CREATING AROOM FOR YOUR CHILD

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trend españa

All things NICE

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Whether you are decorating andfurnishing your first-born’s room or are making aspecial place for later arrivals, you know thateach child is magical and unique. Therefore therooms you build for them symbolise all yourhopes and dreams for them. On a rational level,you know that a perfect room won’t ensure yourchild a perfect life but, emotionally, it’s adifferent story. If you have an endless budget,the sky’s the limit. But for most parents today thequestion is how to provide rooms that nurtureand protect your offspring, stimulate them andgrow along with them.

Children and their special spaces areconstantly evolving. One moment they arebabies sleeping peacefully in their cosy nurseriesand then, as if by magic, they becomeboisterous children in their vibrant, toy-filledplayrooms for several years before changing intosulky adolescents with rooms filled with teenageself-expression.

Designing a child’s room can be fun but for ababy and for new parents serenity is the key.Start with a pared-down look and use subduedcolours for the walls, floor and major furniturepieces. You may think that once you’ve got thecrib, comfy chair and changing table the rest ischild’s play – well, think again. Any experiencedparent can tell you that babies beyond thenewborn stage seem to be able to move fartherand faster than you’d think possible. Look for achanging table with one or two open lowershelves that let you grab nappy changingsupplies with one hand — and fast. Nurseryfurniture should be multifunctional and multi-

stage. Good long-term investments include abassinet that transforms into a toy basket, a cribthat turns into a toddler bed or a rocking chairthat you can pull into the living room once yourrock-a-bye days are done.

Focus on providing safe, sturdy furniture andplay structures, easily accessible storage, andappealing colours and patterns. The kids willsupply the magic of imagination. All childrenneed rest, so storage places or bins to put awaytoys and crafts when playtime is over help signalthe brain it’s time for sleep. Clean lines and basicform-meets-functionality are hallmarks ofmodern design – and are especially appropriatefor an infant’s room, where they form a simplebackdrop for the ever-changing array of toys, artand decorative objects that will take upresidence as your child grows.

When decorating your kid’s bedroom orplayroom one element you might want toconsider including is a room divider. Unlike roomdividers for other rooms in the home, these onesare child-sized and can perform many functionsthat are both decorative and practical. Roomdividers can be used to section off a large roomor separate children’s play from their sleepingspace. You can use them in a child’s room or in aplayroom. Setting up a kid’s room divider in thecorner can add interest and can also give you alittle extra storage space behind the divider.

Just about any colour scheme can work, butit’s usually best to keep colours the clear andcheerful tints such as mint green, yellow andtimeless white, combined with a variety ofspecial accents, which can look fresh and

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delightfully personal. However, if your taste tendstoward the lively and modern, a baby’s room in blackand white with red accents may be just the ticket. Ifnot, you can provide short-term toys and boardbooks that stimulate your baby just as well anddecorate in a way that better suits your style.

The use of warm colours is a welcoming babynursery decorating idea. Kids love warm colours,and even a young baby can recognise red. If you’vebeen reluctant to use conventional fire engine redin large doses, consider one of the alternative redssuch as coral and cranberry, and other ruby huesthat inject a feeling that’s both exciting and cosy.The trick to keeping red manageable is balance. Ifyou opt for red walls, keep the ceiling, floor,furniture and accessories cool and light. White,cream, pale blue and light green add serenity to

offset red’s stimulation. If you choose red furniturethat covers a smaller area of the room, you caneasily use warm tints on the walls and floor; yellow,pink, peach or melon continues this warming trend.

White wicker furniture has its own wovenpattern that contributes subtle interest. What’smore, these wicker furniture pieces will retain theircharm long after the baby has outgrownthe crib. When a room scheme is basedsimply on cheerful colourcombinations and patterns,tomorrow’s favourite toys andcollectibles will fit in as easily astoday’s. In fact, since most kidsdon’t make a clean break fromone phase to the next, aneasygoing design based on

colour will let several eras and enthusiasms coexistpeacefully. Then, fill in with fun, low-cost noveltieslike beanbag chairs in jellybean colours, funky lampsand dramatically coloured bedding that you won’tmind replacing when a new look comes along in afew years.

One of the best things about decorating anolder child’s room is that it gives you a chance toopen a dialogue with them about who they are. Byasking questions and talking to them about whatthey want their room to look and feel like, you willdevelop a better understanding of who they are aspeople. For almost the first decade of life, most

children’s best-loved decorating accessory is you.It’s a sad child who is expected to make a fancy

toy-filled room take the place of a lovingadult’s presence.

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PLAYROOM IDEASGood playrooms have different areas fordifferent activities. Based on the size and thelayout of the room, you may want to includeareas for music and dancing, reading, artsand crafts, active play, building andconstruction, a kitchen set, dressing up orplaying with action figures. Having multipleareas of focus will make the room moreversatile. But, if you don’t have a lot of space,you can create some flexible areas that canserve more than one purpose, depending onwhat toy bin or bag is out for play

StorageShelves and bins are very popular inplayrooms because you can group toys andsupplies into different bins. One bin forbuilding blocks, one for action figures, onefor markers and crayons, etc. Considerstorage benches that serve a doublepurpose. But decide early since storage willbe a big part of the design.

FurnitureFor the most part, a child-sized table andchairs will be the most important furnitureneeds. Many playrooms also include rockingchairs, a white board and an easel for artwork,as well as some corkboard on the walls fordisplaying finished projects. Make sure thatyou have something that will be comfortablefor adults, like a rocking chair, love seat ordaybed so when you visit or watch a play orpuppet show you can enjoy the time youspend there with the kids.

trend españatrend españa

WallsWalls provide a great surface for chalk boardpainted area of the wall or stick sheets –simply peel off the backing and children havean instant whiteboard on which to write anddraw using a dry marker pen. When they havefinished they can simply wipe clean with a softcloth. Murals, posters, decal, the children’s artwork and family photos of fun days out willsoon fill up bare walls. The latest vinyl muralscome in squares with a peel off backing andhave thousands of designs to choose fromdepending on the child’s age. These can beeasily peeled off when ready for a change.Children also need shelves or ledges onwhich they can build Lego, for instance, andthen display their handiwork.

FloorsMake sure the flooring is easy to clean up andsafe for children by planning different zoneswith wipe-clean flooring for messy play andsofter floor coverings for active play andlounging around. Brightly coloured beanbagsincrease the comfort level

SafetyReally do your research and make sure youremember all the child safety considerationsthat are necessary in making your playroomsafe and secure.

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trend españa

Commissioning an artist to painta mural in your child’s bedroom or playroomsets the children’s territory apart. A mural isnot only a great catalyst for storytelling andimaginative play it is also an original piece ofart that will add character to your home.Conrad C Jones designs and paints muralsfor children, which perfectly reflect theirunique interests and personalities. Conrad isoriginally from Torquay (England) where hestudied art and photography; he is nowliving happily in Marbella where he is a full-time artist.

Your artwork is quite diverse. How didyou get into painting for children?I got into the children’s side of things when Iwas back in the UK. A friend of mine, whosewife had just had their first child, asked if Icould paint some characters from WinnieThe Pooh in their little boy’s room and it justgrew from there. Now I get a lot of my workby recommendations and from interiordesigners.

Which themes and characters are the mostpopular at the moment?The most popular characters for murals forboys would have to be Jungle Book andTransformers due to the popularity of thefilms… and for girls, Snow White and Bambi.Parents always like Winnie The Pooh. It oftendepends on what films Pixar and Disney haveout at the time. Incorporating the child’snames into the paintings goes down well.

Are you ever asked to incorporatepainting the furniture into the theme?Yes, it all depends on how far the clientswant me to go. But I try to tie in as much ofthe room as possible into the mural.

How much of the chosen design reflectsthe parents’ preference?Not a lot if the kids get their way. Childrentend to know exactly what they want. Theparents only seem to be able to get a wordin if it’s for a baby’s room. To give theparents and children a betterunderstanding of how the room will lookwhen finished, I always produce sketches ofthe characters, layout of the mural, etc.

What can you tell us about yourchildren’s portraits?I paint them in oil on canvas, in any kind ofstyle from traditional, pop art toexpressionist. I usually work from aphotograph. Once I have done one portraitfor a family I am usually asked to do anotherwhen a new baby comes along. One clienthad her first son painted in an expressioniststyle and when she had another baby twoyears later she requested another exactlythe same size and portrait style for the newchild. She has them either side of herfireplace and now the boys constantly argueover whose portrait is better. Children’sportraits make great presents.

If the child grows out of the mural orwants a change, or another child comesalong are you asked to paint over it andchange the theme? Yes, all the time. Children’s tastes obviouslychange as they get older. I enjoy seeing thechange in the children and how their tasteshave changed when I am asked to paintover the old ones and start with the new.

More information:www.conradcrispin.com

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Adding an artistic touch

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NESTLED IN A BEACHSIDE CUL-DE-SAC SITS A CONTEMPORARYVILLA WHICH – REPORTS NICOLA MCGEORGE – FUSES NATUREAND INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY

PHOTOS CONRAD JONES

inspired living

Meet Hooch, a Doguede Bordeaux (FrenchMastiff), and also theSardo family’s dog.

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A FUTURISTIC fantasy

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inspired living

This casa located in Cancelada (onthe beach of Los Flamingos) needs to be seen tobe believed. With a fingerprint scanner at theentrance, four cinema screens and fibre opticlighting, it wouldn’t be out of place in a MissionImpossible movie. I keep thinking any momentnow Tom Cruise is going to crash through thewindow, or something is going to self-destructwhen I touch it.

Maurizio Sardo, the director of DomosatHome Cinema & Automation Centre, has livedon the Coast for the last 30 years. Three yearsago he and his wife, Emma, decided tocompletely renovate his parents’ old house.“I thought it would be the perfect place to showoff my products,” he explained. “I basicallywanted to create a demo house. The originalvilla was only one storey high, so we knocked itdown, redesigned it and added a second floor. Ihave always wanted to do a project like this; itwas kind of a trial for me. Over the years I havepicked up ideas from different architects anddesigners that I have worked with and this is acombination of them all.”

The couple, though they deny it, aremodernists at heart. They have created aseamless mix between a contemporary interior

Here you can seeDomosat’s products at

their finest. The cinemascreen showing

surveillance, LEDlighting and the AMX

control pad.

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This reformed villa hasbeen turned into astate of the artarchitectural dream.

At night this housereally comes into itsown. Creative lightingadds colour, ambienceand the wow factor.

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Cleverly placed lightingbrings out the colour andspecific features of the florawithin the garden.

Even the gazebo has itsown cinema screen,

bringing outdoor living toanother level. Warm, soft

lighting encourages arelaxed atmosphere.

that respects the simple spaces of the building and theirtreasured pieces which they have collected over the years. Thegrand entrance sets the tone for the rest of the house,combining an oriental flavour with modern elements. Thehighlight is the small moat running along the front of theproperty filled with carp and terrapins. “My passion is theoutdoors,” explains Maurizio. “If I could be outside all the timeI would. Lighting and water are very important to me and Iwanted the entrance to the house to reflect that.” He thenintroduces me to Mummy terrapin, who is quite a character,following Mau wherever he goes.

“She thinks she is getting food,” comments Emma. “Therest of the fish and turtles have cottoned onto the fact that ifthey follow her they get food; look how fast she can move,”she adds, laughing. Moments like this show you this is actuallya family home and not just a platform to showcase Domosat’sproducts. “It actually got too much having customers come tothe house all the time. This is why we decided to build our newshowroom,” says Maurizio.

Inside, a floor to ceiling wall fountain bathed in everchanging LED lighting dominates the hallway. The addition of

inspired living

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an oversized chair (which the cat sits on), sleek chromeaccessories and the classical stain glass window (Emma’sChristmas present) all vie for attention, yet still work inharmony. “The wall fountain adds a bit of a rustic feel,”comments Maurizio. “We have even found fossils in it. What anightmare it was to get it in here though; we had to use a craneand bring it in through the roof.”

A last minute addition was the sunken living room.Originally it was supposed to be all one level. “A lot of thingswere done at the last minute. Every night I would sit with ahuge pile of papers from the architects and start changingthings about,” he admits.

“I couldn’t make any sense of the drawings and what Mauwas doing,” admits Emma. “I would be asking, ‘So where arewe?’ I needed to be in the building and shown to understandthe changes Mau was making,” she grins.

The living room’s custom-made sofa is chic yetwelcoming, while the elegant built-in fireplace only enhancesthe overall appearance. Using the same stone in the livingroom and outdoor terrace creates a link between the twospaces. Tying everything together is the hypnotic lighting,

inspired living

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inspired living

A refreshing, contemporaryapproach, this living room is

boutique chic yet stillwelcoming. Numerouscushions in contrasting

colours add a serene andelegant feel.

Colour takes centre stage inthis Danespan kitchen.

Emma chose an eye-catching, lime green for the

feature wall.

accentuating pivotal features throughout theroom. This is all controlled by tiny Vantagekeypads on the walls. With Vantage, complexsettings involving lighting, music, video,window treatments and temperature areactivated with a single touch. Remote accessenables you to activate, change or monitoryour home and home systems from anywhere.

Next door is the Danespan kitchen, whereindustrial style stainless steel appliances contraststarkly with the organic slate worktops andrough-hewn wooden table. Emma says, “I choseto have the green feature wall. My husbandthought that green would never look good inhere; I guess he was wrong.” Mau then handsme what I can only describe as a gigantic touchscreen remote control fit for the land of giants.

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He explains that his company are the officialdistributors of these AMX control systems. If likeme you get fed up with trying to find which ofyour 10 remote controls will turn on the DVDplayer then this will solve all those problems.

Amx Technology can work anywhere andcontrol any equipment. They can be successfullyintegrated and automate literally thousands ofelectronic devices. I’m sold: no more arguingover who lost the switcher; this one is so big youcouldn’t lose it if you tried.

Taking you to the second floor is astaircase which, like so many of the bestdesigns, stemmed from a startlingly simpleidea. The couple wanted the stairs to look likethey were hanging, creating something thatwas a bit different but not too over the top.The top floor is a mind-blowing free-flowingspace broken up into various zones by partialVenetian stucco finished walls. Large windowsflood the area in light and, with the additionof a concrete ceiling, you are left with a very

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American loft apartment feel. I love the walk-in wardrobe with one-way mirrored glass andthe bedroom with its own contemporaryfireplace, but the real wow factor has to bethe open plan bathroom. I have never seenanything like it. In the centre sits a Teucohydro massage bathtub which looks out ontothe terraced garden. The indoor/outdoorshower, complete with a sauna, gives a wholenew meaning to the phrase inspired living.Surrounded by a Zen garden and with views ofthe sea, you feel at one with nature. “I havenever known someone spend as much time inthe shower as Mau. Any excuse, cleaning histeeth, washing his hair… he just loves the factit’s outdoors,” laughs Emma.

After checking out the sumptuous indoor poolI head out to the garden. It has been carefullylandscaped so that there are plenty of places forthe family to relax. The gazebo provides astructured focus, while sparse corners aretransformed by chic planters brimming withgreenery. But it is at night that the garden reallycomes alive with a wide spectrum of differentlighting effects. “I have always wanted to buy plotsof land and build incredible houses like this one,”shares Maurizio. “If I could have my time again thatis what I would do. I really enjoyed designing andbuilding this place; it was what I was born to do.”

■ For more information call Domosat onTel. 952 787 357, or visit www.domosat.com

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GET THE LOOKIf this house has inspired you, here ishow you can achieve a similar style inyour own home…

Nova corner sofa (available in differentfabrics) – BoConcept: Tel. 951 242 092;boconcept.es

Nineteenth century Maudalay Buddha(were €1,920 each, now €1,840 each) –Loft Design: Tel. 951 969 179;loftdesign.es

Becara sea shell (€63) – El Corte Inglés:Tel. 952 909 990; elcorteingles.es

Orange rug (160x230cm; was €649,now €454) – Loft Design:Tel. 951 969 179; loftdesign.esObice light (€1,050+IVA) – Domosat:

Tel. 952 787 357; domosat.com

Wooden bowl – El Corte Inglés:Tel. 952 909 990; elcorteingles.es

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Silver snake vases (set of three,€382+IVA) – Ambience Home Design:Tel. 952 853 642;ambiencehomedesign.com

Electric cinema screen (3 metre;approx. €1,500) – Domosat:Tel. 952 787 357; domosat.com

Pop art Marilyn Monroe oil painting(90x130cm; €750) – Conrad C. Jones:Tel. 626 250 073; conradcrispin.com

United Colours of Benetton orange handtowel (€10) and El Corte Home grey handtowel (€5.95) – El Corte Inglés:Tel. 952 909 990; elcorteingles.es

Egg chair (available in numerouscolours; €1,450) – Spot On Design:Tel. 951 279 341; spoton.es

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CLIVE CHRISTIAN IS THE EXCLUSIVE BRITISHDESIGNER OF THE MOST RECOGNISED KITCHENSIN THE WORLD. TALKING EXCLUSIVELY TO NICOLAMCGEORGE, HIS DAUGHTER AND AMBASSADOROF THE COMPANY, VICTORIA CHRISTIAN, GIVES ANINSIGHT INTO THE MAN BEHIND THESEBREATHTAKING INTERIORS

THE HEART OFTHE HOME

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“Design it first, to be the best it canbe, then cost it. Design first –always.” Clive Christian.

It is the 10th anniversary forClive Christian’s No1, the world’smost expensive perfume.

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Clive Christian is in a class of his own.With a passion for the ultra-luxe, every piece iscreated without reference to cost or trends –ultimate quality and timeless design areparamount. “My father has a very particular viewof how he likes his environment to look,”explains Victoria, the face of the brand.“Whether he is in a hotel or at home, he isacutely aware of space, the feel and personalityof a room. It was only natural that a man with thislevel of awareness might turn to design.”

He founded the company over 30 years agoand Clive is happy to acknowledge that he wasthe first designer to put chandeliers intokitchens, which labelled him as “eccentric” inthe 1990s. Yet, nowadays this is a covetedsignature of a Clive Christian kitchen.

He has been described by the commissioningeditor of The Sunday Times Style magazine as“someone who has strengthened Britishbrands”, and I wanted to know how Clive’sjourney started. Victoria recalls, “He began hiscareer in furniture design and interiorarchitecture out of frustration. In the 1970s hebought a 19th century manor house in Cheshire;it had beautiful structure and architectureexternally but the interior design was totallyincongruent. What he wanted the interior of hisfamily home to look like didn’t exist and wasn’tavailable to buy, so he set about creating aharmony between the exterior and the interiorand built a factory in the UK that was able tocreate what he saw in his head. That factory isstill there today and still produces every piece ofClive Christian furniture.”

His kitchens are credited with revolutionisingthe way that society viewed “the heart of thehome”, not just a functional work space, but a

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Celebrities including Céline Dion and Rod Stewart clamour for high-end kitchens such as thisarchitectural kitchen in ivory and black oak. The colour palette evokes a sense of cool luxurywith solid black oak flooring and island worktop offset by the contrasting cabinetry finishedon ivory and laced with a 200-year-old British Antique Grey glaze.

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perfect accompaniment to the ultimate opulentlifestyle. “In the 1970s, the fashion and the stylefor interiors was totally opposite to what weknow as the Clive Christian design style today,”she comments. “There was no stainless steel,but beautifully carved, elegant lines. A spacethat was deigned to cater to the functionalaspect of cooking and preparing, but alsobeautiful enough to entertain and spend time in.The cherry on top was the crystal chandelier overthe island, totally impractical in a kitchen but afabulous visual to remind you to enjoy everymoment in life, not to ‘save things for a rainyday’. I’m not sure that a Clive Christian kitchen isalways used for cooking though. I was at a partyin Texas where the caterers almost set the houseon fire as they turned on the oven, which was fullof delivery menus,” she laughs.

Soon clients wanted to extend this lookbeyond the kitchen; thus Clive created hisArchitectural Design Style, which formed aseamless flow throughout the home. Combininghis architecture, panelling and floor-to-ceilingfurniture resulted in the entire room feeling like awork of art. Strong features such as the friezeand the mantel have been enhanced while theelegance and grandeur of the Clive Christiandesign signature is shown through barrel-backedalcoves which centre the softly-lit glazeddressers and vast black crystal chandeliers.

I asked Victoria what inspires her father tocreate such mesmerising designs. “Greatarchitecture and sculpture. The elegance of theVictorian era and the grandeur of the Regencyperiod with fluted columns and gold leaf

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Clive Christian’s daughteris the spokeswoman forthe brand… “I have alwaysfelt a part of the CliveChristian world; having theprivilege to grow upsurrounded by thesebeautiful environments,sitting in front of thefireplace with my fathertalking about what wascoming next and of courseknowing many of thepeople in the companywho have been a part ofClive Christian for many,many years.”

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detailing, reminiscent of the magnificent PrinceRegent himself, who had Regent Street, London,created and built for his debut into society.Mostly he inspires others, certainly myself, to livetheir best life, to take great pleasure out of thesimplest things; a beautiful view, the ocean, apeaceful garden, a great wine, fresh seafood.”

As well as being known for his remarkableinteriors, Clive also created the world’s mostexpensive perfume, officially recognised by theGuinness Book of World Records. “When I wasfour years old,” Victoria recalls, “my father and Idiscovered an original bottle from the Crownperfumery between the floor boards of ourVictorian family home. Since that day we haveboth been smitten. Not only did this bottle havea special personal, family significance, it sohappened that in 1872 Queen Victoria had giventhe image of her crown to this company as hermark of approval for the quality and excellenceof the house. It was a piece of British history.Twenty years later it came to my father’sattention that the very same perfumery wasgoing out of business and he became thecustodian. He restored the original values to theperfumery: pure perfume only in highconcentrations for longevity on the skin and

made from the most precious natural ingredientsin very complex formulas. It was my father’smission to restore luxury to the fragrance worldand I believe he has achieved this. The perfumesspeak for themselves so if you haven’t tried them– you should!”

Such a success was this new venture that hewas asked to create a tiara-shaped crystalperfume bottle filled with No.1 The World’s MostExpensive Perfume to be exhibited at theVictoria & Albert museum in honour of HerMajesty Queen Elizabeth II’s Golden Jubilee. Heconsiders this the highlight of his career.

I asked Victoria why they had decided onMarbella as a location for one of their prestigiousshowrooms. “We partner with great people allaround the world who understand the CliveChristian philosophy. Usually it so happens thatthese people are situated in the most glamorousparts of a country, Monte Carlo in Monaco, BeverlyHills in California and Marbella in Spain.”

Clive Christian has always aspired to makeany product which bears his name the very bestin its class, a true reflection of British luxury, andas his daughter so aptly puts it, “He enjoys lifeand I think it is evident in what he creates. It is acelebration of beauty.”

“My father hasn’t triedto become successful:he has simply createdthe things that he loves.I would describe hisdesigns as timelessluxury with a respectfullack of regardfor convention.”

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THE KELLY EFFECTIN THIS EXCLUSUVE INTERVIEW NICOLA MCGEORGE TALKS TOAWARD-WINNING INTERIOR DESIGNER KELLY HOPPEN ABOUTTHE BECKHAMS’ L.A. PAD, HER GEORGIAN TOWNHOUSE ANDEVEN MEETING THE QUEEN

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designer in focus

Kelly Hoppen is an interior designer tothe A-List, not to mention luxury retailer, author.educator and innovator. She is just the kind ofinspirational figure our youth of today should beaspiring to replicate, instead of idolising the Wagculture. We should be celebrating successful,glamorous, alpha females like her, a woman whostarted her career in her teens. “I got my first jobwhen I was 16, which was designing a kitchen formy stepfather’s friend,” she recalls. “It basicallyinvolved buying a kitchen and having it fitted. Iwas paid about £1,500 or so, which seemed like alot back then. Since then, I have only ever workedin my own business; this has probably resulted inmy success.”

She was born in Cape Town, South Africa,where her father worked in the fashion industryand her mother was a businesswomanspecialising in antique maps of Africa and books.While still a child, she and her family moved toLondon where she continues to reside. She hasbeen twice divorced. Her first marriage was torestaurateur Graham Corrett, father to herdaughter Natasha, now 25. Her second marriageto investment banker Ed Miller broughtstepdaughters actress Sienna and fashiondesigner Savannah Miller into her life. Since thenKelly’s relationships have included footballer SolCampbell, hairdresser Nicky Clarke and, recently,reports of a liaison with Guy Ritchie.

Now with over 25 years in the industry, hername has become synonymous with an aestheticof simple sophistication and a lulling play oftextures. “I love neutrals and think that a homeneeds to have neutral colours on the walls fortranquillity and calm,” she says of her signaturestyle. “I use a lot of vintage pieces, art andflowers to accessorise and bring life to a room.”

Kelly Hoppen Interiors saw a turnover of 18million pounds last year. While the world hasfallen into recession, she shows no signs ofslowing down. About 80 per cent of her work isabroad: the Middle East, Russia, Europe andNorth America. “I have so many projects, whichI’ve loved designing, including BA’s first classcabin and Yoo Properties at The Lakes. For BA,taking inspiration from the style and quality of aRolls-Royce car interior, I used Connolly leather,burr walnut effect, velvet and cashmere-softfabrics in a colour palette of deep blue, rich redand camel to design the first class cabins.”

Her fierce and dedicated work ethic won herthe “Oscar” of the design industry, the AndrewMartin Interior Designer of the Year award, in

Kelly Hoppen’s livingroom shows off

the characteristiccombination of neutralsand textures for which

she is renowned

The bathroomreflects her Eastmeets Westattitude, whilefeatures such as theKelly Hoppen KH2bath spout andvalves areminimalist atits finest

w w w. b e a u t i f u l h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m 37

1996; but she is most noted for her celebrityclients such as Elton John and the Beckhams.I am dying to ask her about working withVictoria. Was she a nightmare? Was shecompletely controlling or would Kelly even beable to talk to me about it? We all know howcelebs like to slap down those confidentialitycontracts. Luckily she was happy to share. “It isalways a challenge working with celebrityclients… In our initial discussions, she told meshe wanted the house done similar to my ownplace in London. We only had five weeks totransform the Beckhams’ place, so it was a lot of

One of the worldsleading interior

designers,Kelly Hoppen

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pressure but it was amazing that we were able topull it off! Victoria is one of my best friends and Ireally wanted everything to be perfect.”

So was that the highlight of her career? “I’vehad a really amazing career and to this day I lovewhat I do, but receiving an MBE was definitelythe most incredible experience of my career – aproud moment. I was thrilled when I heard and itwas hard keeping it a secret as I couldn’t tellanyone for days. When I went to meet theQueen in March, it wasn’t actually my first timeas I’d met her before, but when I walked up toher to receive my award I felt honoured. TheQueen was very pleasant and said I had donewell – an incredible moment.”

I bet many of you don’t even realise thatKelly has even worked her magic here in ourown Puerto Banús: she designed the celebrityjewellery store Stephen Webster. “Marbella is abeautiful place full of tradition and culture.Puerto Banús is a great place to shop,” she

comments. “There are many collaborativeprojects between Stephen and I; our mostrecent one is his London flagship store onMount Street. It has been a fantasticexperience working with Stephen; he is agenius and one of my closest friends so it wasnatural for us to work together again on theLondon store. The design is totally eclectic atMount Street and different to the Marbella andHong Kong shops whilst still reflectingStephen’s personality and rock star chic.“

Many interior designers do not actuallypractise what they preach. They fill their clients’homes with a diverse mix of styles all vying forattention while their own abode completelyopposes this ideology. I was eager to find out ifher home was basked in neutral colours and ajuxtaposition of different textures. “I have reallyenjoyed designing my home in Notting Hill – itwas a challenge designing it all in just fivemonths but I’m really happy with the results. My

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A glossy dark grey Boffi kitchen issoftened by white glass accents. It stillfeels feminine despite encompassing allthe top high tech appliances

Her tranquil bedroom blends light anddark tones deliciously. Her fusion of richlinens and accessories can be found atthe Kelly Hoppen Shop at The Yard

Top on Kelly’s list was to create asoothing home environment, whereorder establishes harmony and neutralsgive calm

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house is a Georgian townhouse, which I guttedcompletely. I wanted to make my own mark inthe interior. It is now very eclectic; every roomhas a sliding door with a six-foot vertical handlerunning from the top to the bottom. I have alsoused a lot of black wood and neutral colours. Ontop of this I have gone for concealed lightingwherever possible – with shafts of light comingup from behind walls.”

With her over-subscribed design school andsuccessful opulent product range is thereanything left for her to conquer? “To carry ondoing what I love for as long as possible andhopefully have a TV show in the near future. Wehave 50 new products out in September fromfurniture to accessories at Maison et Objet. Ihave a new range of candles and taps and I’mlaunching a range of Shutters soon at B&Q andUtterly Shutterly.” It seems nothing can stop thisambitious woman; she proves that the world ofdesign has no boundaries.

■ Walls should be objects of beauty in theirown right. If this involves wallpaper, thenso be it! My personal favourite is boldflocked wallpaper. However, justremember that whatever colour or style ofwallpaper you use, it must blend well withthe ceiling and be neutral.

■ Up-lighters are really popular at the momentbecause they cast beautiful shadows in thehome. People are using fewer lamps andhave more “hidden” lighting setting theatmosphere for any occasion.

■ Invest in vintage pieces! Vintage is unique,beautiful and you can always sell it on inthe future. It’s a little bit like owning art.

■ You can improve your home simplyby re-arranging accessories andmoving around furniture, which willresult in a whole new look. It is exactlylike makeup – have the confidence totry something you’ve never donebefore and you’ll be really surprisedat the difference.

■ A great tip is to use silk flowers; it’s agreat money saver instead of buyingfresh flowers regularly.

■ Contacts:www.kellyhoppenretail.comwww.stephenwebster.com Tel. 952 816 976

designer in focus

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KELLY HOPPEN STYLE TIPS

There have been many collaborative design projects between StephenWebster and Kelly Hoppen, the results of which heighten thedistinctive brand ambience that Stephen Webster is renowned for:high luxe glamour with a rock and roll edge

The Stephen Webster Boutique in Puerto Banús exudes luxury, with hisstunning jewellery displayed among blackened coral within floatingglass fish tanks; while chain embellished chairs, mother of pearl framedart work and dramatic chandeliers create a truly opulent setting

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Kelly Hoppen withpresenter Lisa Snowdon

and singerRachael Stevens

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trend españa

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Small designsSMALLER HOMES OFFER UNIQUE CHALLENGES INDECORATING BUT – AS TRISH DYNES EXPLAINS – YOUDON’T NEED TO HAVE SPACE TO HAVE STYLE: SIMPLICITYAND CLARITY INEVITABLY LEAD TO GOOD DESIGN

Before you start planning a brand newroom or make changes to an existing one,determine if making your room look larger isreally the way you want to go. Maybe you wantyour living room to be comforting and wrappeople with warmth when they enter by usingsoft, snugglysnugly upholstered pieces, dark,warm tones and dramatic lighting. Your tinycorner can become a wonderful private space sodon’t be quick to assume bigger is always better–- you might just be creating a problem wherenone exists.

When decorating your small space, always focuson simplicity. Visual unity among decorationsenables the room to maintain a sense of class,without becoming cluttered and closed in. Thedetails, furnishings and decorations should besimple and balance each other. One method ofbalance is to make the surfaces of the roomconsistent: paint and colour achieves this con-sistency. Cooler colours such as greens and bluestend to recede from the eye, while warmer colourssuch as reds and yellows seem to close in a room.

Use colour combinations that refract a lot oflight. They don’t have to be pastel colours – - youcan use a deep yellow or a rich cream. Paint onewall a deeper colour or, because smaller wallsurfaces require smaller budgets, why not treatthe room to some beautiful wallpaper? A largeprint can look fabulous on one wall, even in alimited space, but keep it light and bright andavoid small busy prints. When searching forcustom framed art for a small space, one largeprint is better than many smaller prints.

Now traditional rules about scale in a roomwould lead you to believe a small room needssmall scalesmall-scale furniture, but the oppositeis true. Using just a few larger scale piecesreduces clutter and gives the eye a smoothertrip across the room. Use two love seats ratherthan one long sofa where everyone sits as if theyare in a receiving line. Consider having at leastsome of the furniture pieces the same colour asthe walls. Even the bigger items, such as a chestof drawers, will begin to blend in and widen outthe room.

trend españa

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Perspex as a medium for innovative furnitureevolved in the 1970’s and is still considered to bestylish and perfect for a small contemporary styleroom. Many famous designers such as Kartellmake Perspex tables, stools and chairs which givethe appearance of an open and free space.

Another option is to choose a sofa and chairswith open arms and exposed legs; this allowslight to filter under the furniture, making theroom appear airier. Slim and streamlined pieces,such as armless Parson chairs, are beautifulspace savers. Stick to clean lines in furniture thatcan have dual functions. A table can be used asa desk by day and a dining table by night, or tryusing one large coffee table that can double asan oriental style low-level dining table. Use anextendable dining table, folding tables and nestof tables, which can be tucked away when youdon’t need them.

A chest of drawers can hold a TV, and store allyour magazines and games. Consider building anopen shelf about a foot below the ceiling allaround the room, it’s a great storage solution forbooks and draws the eye up.

Don’t let your furniture and accessories blockthe view into a room and out to open spaces. Bymoving furniture out and away from walkways,you’ll open up the space and make it feel larger. If

you can see the floor, the room will look larger;,setting your furniture at an angle works becausethe longest straight line in any room is itsdiagonal. When you place your furniture at anangle it leads the eye along the longer distance,rather than the shorter wall, and you can use thespace behind the piece in the corner to placegood looking storage baskets or boxes.

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Remember that windows are an extension ofthe walls and cover a substantial decoratingspace. If you want the room to look bigger, youhave to keep the window treatments as simple aspossible. Avoid layering the window treatmentsand make sure that all the curtains in the room arethe same. Another way to make a small room looklarger is to make the colour of the windowtreatments closely match that of the walls. Thatway, they will blend with the walls instead ofcausing contrast. Contrast causes your eye to

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stop, and therefore makes a small space seemeven smaller. Blinds are perfect for making aroom seem larger because they can be pulledtotally clear of the window, which will allow morelight to enter the room. However, if you want eye-catching bold print curtains to add a bit ofpanache to a monochromatic room go for it’syour room but remember to extend the curtainrods beyond the window frames to allow in morelight and draw the eye outward.

The trick that everyone knows is to use a largemirror or collage of small mirrors across from awindow to bounce light around the room, anillusion that enlarges almost any space. You canalso use mirrored cabinet doors to make spacesfeel large and uncluttered. Avoid single overheadlighting in small spaces as it has a tendency todraw the walls in. Instead, increase the number oflight sources, placing them near walls to reflectglow. To avoid glare common in a smaller space,conceal your sources of light creatively withlampshades, directed spotlights or recessedlighting. Changing the lighting can alter the way a

room looks, particularly the dimensions, just asmuch as changing the colour of the walls.

Light all four corners of the room. Use wallwashers on a large expanse of light- colouredceiling. Use uplighters to bounce light onto theceiling and walls. Create panels of light at oneend of the room –- your eye will be pulled alongtowards it, making the space appear longer.

There’s nothing that makes a small space feelcramped more than having too much stuff. Withthings neatly arranged and out of sight, the spacewill feel orderly and open. Think about taking alarge box and removinge all clutter from theroom, and then movee out accessories andcushions. Take a well earned break and thenbring things back one at a time and stop whenthe room looks perfect. The key here is restraintand willpower.

So now that you have got rid of your trash tomake room for your treasures let the things thatare important take centre stage. Remember, it’snot the size of the room – it’s the size of the heartthat creates the room that is important.

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BEDROOM TIPSTo make use of the space in a small bedroomthe main principles apply. However, here are afew extra tips to make your small bedroom apleasure to be in.

The WallsMinimise pattern: flowers, stripes, plaids andpolka dots will seem to swim toward you from arug, curtains, wallpaper or a bed cover. If thebed is to be in the centre of the room make afeature of the wall or headboard. Consider ashoji screen for the Chinese or Japanesecharacters on the wall for a super minimalistroom. Wallpapering a panel at the head of thebed eliminates the need for a headboard, orhang a simple textile such as some shears, aquilt or a tapestry from a decorative rod. Besparing with art work or try grouping pictureslow on the wall above the bed.

The Bed Be creative: make your bed the ultimate in luxuryand the focus of the whole room. Think abouthaving the bed extend from the corner of theroom to free up more wall space, Instead ofnightstands you can build a table top/nightstandthat fits into the corner behind the bed.Consider different styles of bed such as a futonor a Murphy bed that folds into a cupboard soyou can have can have more living space duringthe day, while still having plenty of space tosleep at night. Or maybe a loft bed would beuseful for a teenager, with sitting spaceunderneath.

The StorageIdeally the flatter and lower the bed the morespacious the room looks; however, if you want thebed to be the focus of the room choose one withplenty of storage space underneath. Fit thewardrobe with a storage system of drawers,shelves and rods to optimise storage. If youcannot afford built-in storage try putting an oldchest of drawers inside the fitted wardrobe toprovide extra storage space and keep thebedroom floor clear.

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AUTOMATICPROGRAMME

FOR THE NECK,SHOULDERS,BACK AND

LEGS

Beautiful HomeMagazine

Massage pleasure at homemassage chair can give you that little bit of much-appreciated, and well-earned, luxury after a longday and ensure a full body massage without having

to leave the comfort of your own home. There are many benefits to owning one of these fabulous

chairs: it can improve your posture, relieve back and necktension, and help to loosen tight muscles.

It is available in a range of different models that will fitperfectly into the home, meaning you can relax and enjoythe benefits whenever you choose.

With a variety of colours including white, cream,green, red, blue, black and beige these state-of-the-art chairs are convenient and time efficient forthose who just want to relax at the end of theday without having to go to a salon.

The chair offers vibration massage for thewhole body; allows you to vary the intensityof the vibrations to suit your own taste; andhelps to relieve sleepless nights, leaving youfeeling revitalised and relaxed.

Prices start from ¤599.

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Demonstration models can be viewed atBespoke Media, RWK Kitchens,

KSR Lighting, Twist Boutique and Domosat.

LAST FEWREMAINING

comfort zone

w w w. b e a u t i f u l h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m 47

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his amazing new emergency light is anessential piece of equipment for police,fire fighters and emergency responseteams. The safety light has nine flash

patterns, including SOS (Morse Code), making itthe ultimate must-have for cyclists, hikers androck climbers. Motorcyclists in particular canbenefit from greater visibility, as super-brightLED array can be seen for kilometres at night,while they are also bright enough to provide youwith extra protection during the day,

About the size of a hockey puck, this compactlight emits 360 degrees of ultra-bright light,visible up to 15 kilometres away. It is waterproofand floats.

Truly versatile, LED emergency lights can beused for traffic control, as a warning light, as arescue beacon… the list is endless. Beingwatertight and non-reactive, they can also beused in places where old-fashioned flares wouldbe hazardous, such as in the presence of petrol.

They can be re-charged in two to three hours,by using the electricity mains or the cigarettelighter in your car.

T

For more information go to Email: [email protected]

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Solid – On Low 35 hours

2 LED Flashlight 9 hours

4 LED Illuminate 6 hours

Who says that LEDlights cannot be fun! Placingthem in your champagne or

wine cooler will give the wowfactor to any party

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Micronetics Inc Ltdwww.eco-led-lights.comemail : [email protected]

LEDS ARE THE FUTURE

THE FUTURE IS NOW

MICRONETICS INC LTD.

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Mediterranean elegancein a celestial settingLOCATED IN ONE OF SOUTHERN SPAIN’S MOST SELECT RESIDENTIALDEVELOPMENTS, THE EXCEPTIONAL HOME FEATURED HERE BRINGSTOGETHER ALL THE FINEST ASPECTS OF LUXURY LIVING

inspired living

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The grand woodenentrance doors areflanked by attractiveItalian cypress trees

inspired living

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This majestic villa offers thecharming combination of classicMediterranean elegance and a prized elevatedsetting within Marbella’s exclusive La Zagaletaestate – which offers spectacular, panoramicviews towards the African continent.

The private, gated community meets thehighest standards in living, with the exclusiveamenities for residents including an 18-hole golfcourse, a clubhouse with an excellent restaurant,a helipad, a horse riding centre, and boar anddeer hunting grounds.

The dramatic entrance to the propertyunfolds through automatic gates ontolandscaped grounds with a full turning circle andcovered parking in addition to a spaciousgarage which comfortably accommodates fourcars and a golf trolley.

A striking centrepiece is created by adelightful courtyard area with decorative mosaiccobblestones where a large fountain sits in frontof double, wooden entrance doors which areflanked by tall Italian cypress trees.

The large swimmingpool and spa bathoccupies an ample

outdoor area

The stunningcourtyard iscreated with alarge centrepiecefountain anddecorative mosaiccobblestones

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The overall aspect ofthe villa is

complemented bybeautifully landscaped

grounds

Waterfalls, lily ponds andan array of subtropical

plants add to the charmof the gardens

Once inside the villa, an air of grandeur is setby a galleried hallway featuring wrought ironbalustrades and a generous staircase which leadsto the upper level – home to the master bedroomsuite and a private salon with kitchenette.

Open space and striking features inspire theground level, which is attractively composed ofan ample lounge room opening directly onto alarge outdoor living terrace area and theproperty’s extensive gardens, featuringwaterfalls and lily ponds. A family room withopen log fireplace and billiards area sits to oneside of the lounge, while the other side adjoinsto an elegant octagonal dining room whichopens through double glass doors to apleasant patio area.

The large kitchen is traditional in style yetwell-equipped and has access to both thedining room and downstairs to the basement,where a large self-contained staff or guestapartment comprises a living room, kitchen

area, two double bedrooms, a bathroom, aprivate terrace and a lawn. Additionalbasement features are the laundry room, winecellar, machine room and workshop.

The east wing – which is convenientlyserved by a separate guest entrance –features four further en-suite bedrooms withgenerous-sized bathrooms, while a gamesroom (with bathroom area) can also beaccessed from the east side of the garden.All levels of the house are served by anelevator, and under-floor heating and air-conditioning can be found throughout.

Overall, this remarkable property occupies9,300 square metres, with mature gardenswhich include a full irrigation and lightingsystem, and an array of subtropical shrubs andplants. The heated swimming pool – which isfitted with an automatic retractable cover – isof ample size and can be enjoyed alongside arelaxing spa bath.

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inspired living

The elevated position ofthe property offersunparalleled, panoramicviews over the land andacross the Mediterranean

The ground level opensonto a spacious outdoorliving terrace andextensive gardens

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An air of grandeur isset by the galleried

hallway and beamedcathedral ceiling

The upper level is hometo the grand mastersuite bedroom

inspired living

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The ample loungearea is characterisedby open space and anelegant décor

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Sea views and plenty ofnatural light set a tranquilambience in the master suite

inspired living

A family room with billiardstable and open fire sits to

one side of the mainlounge area

Wrought iron brings arustic touch to the

dramatic hallway area

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Natural wood and antiquehanging glass lamps arekey to the Mediterraneanstyle of the villa

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inspired living

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En-suite bathrooms arefitted with the finest

marble and latestbathroom fittings

The additionalbedrooms’ suites aretastefully decoratedin a classic style

The east wing ishome to four en-suitebedrooms and isentered through aseparate entrance

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inspired living

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For viewings and moreinformation contact: Inmobilaria Luz C.C. Guadalmina 4,Local 29670San Pedro de Alcántara Tel. 952 880 [email protected]

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style now

And so to bed

THE BEDROOM IS YOURPERSONAL SANCTUARY, ONE

THAT EPITOMISES YOUR TASTEAND STYLE, WHILE SOME SAYIT IS A REFLECTION OF YOURSOUL. IT IS A SACRED ROOM

THAT IS CUSTOMISED TOMAKE YOU RELAX AND

UNWIND, WHICH IS WHY WECOULDN’T WAIT TO SEE HOW

“THOSE IN THE KNOW” HADDECORATED THEIR BOUDOIRS

THE KING OF GLAMOURFirst up is Jonty Richard Lewis Healey, creativedirector of Richard Lewis Interiors and renownedfor his imaginative and distinctive style. Havingrevamped his bedroom just in time for ourshoot, it would obviously be bang on trend. Hismonochrome masterpiece, where qualitymaterials have been used throughout, results ina liberating feeling rather than stark. “I wasalways going to go for black and white, butoriginally I also wanted to include colour,” hesays. “This went out the window. Now if I wantcolour I just add it with accessories. This way Ican change the palette whenever I fancy.”

The room has a high-end luxury feel with fauxpony skin lampshades, Wenge wooden flooringand the quirky motif wallpaper. “I chose thiswallpaper as the design echoes the shape of thelarge tree outside my window. As for the focalpoint, well I have always wanted a four-posterbed and now I finally have one,” he grins.

Other key pieces are the Rambulle side tablesand very masculine dressing table, while thewindows are decadently dressed with Yutes

natural fabric voiles, allowing maximum light intothe room. I comment on what I feel is Jonty’strademark large, free-standing mirrors thatbounce light around the room; he never hangsthem on the wall. He laughs, “I think they lookbetter at that angle. This bedroom containsmany of my favourite things. I love shiny chrome;see the champagne cooler and the large urnfilled with orchids. I just adore orchids. It’s veryhard to get beautiful accessories on the Coast,which is why I have now opened my own shopselling just that.”

I had to ask, where had all the Buddhas gone? Icould only see one. “Yes, I did have rather apenchant for Buddhas but I think I scared Seb, mypartner, with them. He has now got rid of them all.Even the very expensive one that was on the stairshas been relegated to the garden.”

In my opinion this room has it all: a perfectbalance of indulgence, elegance and calm – theperfect recipe for a good night’s sleep.■ Tel. 952 89 69 01;www.richardlewisinteriors.com

NICOLA MCGEORGE TAKES A SNEAKY PEEK AT THREE OF THE COAST’S TOPINTERIOR DESIGNERS’ MOST PRIVATE SPACE – THEIR BEDROOMS

PHOTOS DAVID TOMS

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Maid to be modernhis decadently dressed bedroom wasdesigned by Bianca Medina, one of theteam from Patricia Darch Interiors –

Sotogrande’s leading interior decorationcompany for more than 20 years. Catering forbespoke and pre-designed schemes, theyhave an expansive showroom just outside theport, carrying exclusive furniture and textilelines from luxury Italian companies and topSpanish designers.

With such experience this bedroom wasgoing to be anything but ordinary. “Nature ispresent throughout the whole apartment,”she explains. “Therefore this was thencontinued into the master bedroom. Theother main inspirations were the powerfulelements of light and brightness.” To set offthis attribute she played with silver and white,with a slight accent of purple.

“The silver tones are picked up in the silkcurtains by Christian Fishbacher and thehand-painted wallpaper by Paper’s, whereasthe splash of purple comes from the fluidAthenea Diseno painting.” By choosing to

hang this over the white lacquered chest ofdrawers by Horm, she has created quite afocal point. “The chest is an undulating form,reminiscent of the flowing tide.”

She wanted the large Malerba bed with aone-piece headboard in white leather andlacquered noir to occupy the centre of theroom. The same company provided thebedside tables and lamps which round off therelaxing ambience. Also featured is a gloriousPierre Frey bedspread in linen, hand-blockedin silver and black.

The “Glas” mirror which simulates anaccordion is every woman’s best friend. Youcan see yourself from every angle, so no morewalking out the door with your label stickingout of your trousers. Other cutting-edgetouches are the Schöbel wall lights and VGNew Trend lamp. These are just a few of themany clever details which make this such anextraordinary bedroom.■ Patricia Darch InteriorsTel: 956 615350www.interiorsinspain.com

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CN.340 CADIZ/MALAGA-KM. 135, AVENIDA MAR DEL SUR 26.

TORREGUADIARO 11312 (SOTOGRANDE) CADIZ

TEL: +34 956 615 350 MOVIL: +34 667 654 366

E-MAIL: [email protected]

WEB: WWW.INTERIORSINSPAIN.COM

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Fit for a queenhen you walk into Deborah HarfordCorbett’s bedroom you aredefinitely in for a surprise. Expecting

the usual magnolia and tapes with Ikea stylefurniture I was taken back by this incredibleromantic, 18th century styled bedchamber withbeautiful painted vaulted ceilings, akin to that ofthe Sistine Chapel. It is beautiful, poetic even.

“Oh, I really don’t like creams and beiges,”she exclaims. “If a client requests it, well ofcourse, but for my own home I prefer colourand lots of wallpaper. If this was England Iwould have paper on every wall, but I wouldnever try and turn my Spanish villa into aEnglish one.”

The whole room was inspired by herBalzarotti Paris bed which she brought over fromher home in the UK. The tones were thenincorporated into the ceiling mural. “I requestedangels and cherubs from the local artist MathewBrett. He gave me a few different options beforeI decided on this one. It then took him six weeksto complete.” I bet he really needed achiropractor after that job.

What is really exquisite about this space is thatyou can see Deborah’s personality in every aspectof it: the eclectic collection of antique photoframes, the black and white photograph of VivienLeigh (Deborah loves Gone With The Wind) andher ornate perfume bottles. “I am a bit of ahoarder,” she admits. “If something is still in greatcondition, why not recycle it? In my house inEngland I had lots of Islay Lace and this was theonly room it worked with, so I used it to dress thewindows. The dressing table was originally an old‘40s, kidney-shaped base which I have recoveredwith some leftover material from the bed.”

While the interview is taking place aprocession of cats continue to walk in and out.She has 12 in total, all rescued, and they play abig part in her life. As I leave I see one of thetabby cats curled up on the bed, which in truth isfit for a queen. Somebody certainly landed ontheir feet.■ Kristina Szekely-Sotheby’sInternational Realty: Tel: 952 81 01 02; Deborah Harford Corbett: Tel. 658 204 229;[email protected]

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ighting a garden at night adds acomplete new dimension tolandscaping, enabling you toemphasise the most beautiful

features of your garden. The highlightof this garden is the gazebo, wheretraditional hanging lanterns give awarm ambience. Four GU10 spots werealso added to give ample lighting.

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IN THIS NEW REGULAR FEATURE WE WILL BE LOOKING AT SOME OF THECOAST’S MOST GLAMOROUS GARDENS

THE OUTDOOR WAYPHOTOS RUTH JONES

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cool gardens

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Spotlights give a crispwhite light, accentuating theleaves and bringing out thecolour of the plants, whilethe bollards create aperimeter. These also clearlydemarcate the pathway

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Uplighting from below isthe most common techniqueto give a dramatic effect.It reverses the daylightperspective of light fromabove. The use of a brightgreen LED at the back ofthe garden gives an artistictouch of colour

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All lighting was provided by KSR: Tel. 952 784 784 www.ksrlighting.com

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GREEN FINGERS

budget corner

If you have always wanted to grow yourown fresh produce but do not have either thespace or the patience, why not try a herb garden?Herbs may not sound very exciting but you will besurprised by just how handy they are, from culinaryto medicinal. Love pesto sauce on your pasta?Well make your own using fresh basil. Need arelaxing infusion? Once dried, chamomilebecomes a stress-busting delicious tea. Need wego on? A basic herb garden is not hard to achieveand it can be created in a remarkably smallamount of space. Follow this step-by-step guideand you will soon be spicing up your recipes withyour own home-grown herbs.

Supplies (available from your local garden centre)

Potting compost/sustratoFertilizer/abonoHerb plant/hierba (easy-to-grow plants: thyme,mint, parsley, basil, sage, marjoram, oregano)Container/macetaSpade/pala

Step OneDrill holes into the bottom of the container andthen add a handful of pebbles for drainage.Next fill three-quarters with soil. If you areusing seeds follow the planting instructions forthe types of herbs you are planting. If you areusing already established plants followreplanting instructions. We decided on thelatter. Make sure you can see the roots at thebottom of the pot; otherwise they may only lasta week or two.

Step TwoMake holes, then place the herbs in the pottingsoil. Start in the centre with tall plants of an uprighthabit. We decided on coriander (cilantro), chives(cebollino), parsley (perejil) and basil (albahaca).Add top soil and then press firm.

Step ThreeFollow the instructions on the fertilizer bottleand then mix the relevant amount into awatering can. Water plants till the soil is moist.Clip herbs as you need them, and water thebasket two or three times a week.

Step FourIf you want dry herbs spread them in a singlelayer on trays or hang them in bundles usingrubber bands to hold the stems together. Placethe herbs in a dark, well-ventilated place untilthey are completely dry. Store them in the darkin air-tight containers.

THIS ISSUE WE INTRODUCE A NEW DIY FEATURE OFFERINGVALUABLE ADVICE FOR BUDDING RECESSIONISTAS

Tips for the home and garden

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For more information:JHK Special GardenTel: 952 897 911www.jhkspecialgarden.com

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Exotic luxuryarbella is known for its stunningproperties but even in such stellarcompany some homes still manage to

stand out. For example, the exotically stylish villafeatured here.

Located in Reserva de Los Monteros, just atwo-minute walk from one of Marbella’s finestand quietest beaches, the villa is well-divided,spacious and directed to the south-east.

The ground level comprises an expansivehallway and corridor leading to the livingroom, dining room, kitchen and one bedroomwith bathroom.

Two large wooden stairs on each side of thecorridor lead upstairs to another living room,three extremely large bedrooms and bathrooms,and a superb master bedroom with an extraroom with closets and a vast bathroom.

The whole villa is fitted with under-floorheating; while the flooring features marble withonyx inlay in the hallway and corridor, tiles in thekitchen and utility room, marble in thebathrooms and wood with a laminate anti-scratch top layer – eye-catching and practical –in the rest of the property. Integrated into theback of villa, but with its own entrance, is a

THE VILLA FEATUREDHERE MIGHT NOT BE

EXACTLY ONE OF AKIND BUT IT COMESCLOSE: THE OWNER

BUILT A SIMILAR HOUSEIN RIO REAL AND LIKED

IT SO MUCH HECREATED ANOTHER

ONE IN THE SAMEORIGINAL STYLE

M

property file

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separate and very private apartment – with aliving room, bedroom, bathroom, kitchen andattractive terrace.

The basement includes a huge garage for atleast 10 cars, with an extra utility room.

A large, appealingly-shaped pool is locatedin front of the house, while a tennis court is set inthe grounds in the back. In all, the propertyextends over 1,250 square metres.More information:HARLEQUIN MARBELLATel. 952 836 050 / 667 922 916www.harlequinmarbella.com

property file

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An eclectic vision of thediverse pleasures of art

art file

Over the last three years he has been working onmural paintings and decorations with gold-leafor silver-leaf on walls and ceilings. This style hasbecome especially trendy among the owners ofluxury houses where Cristian has worked inBerlin, Paris and Marbella.

What was your first painting?I used to paint a lot of horses; I loved paintingthem. I cannot remember my first painting but Isuppose it had to be a horse.

You work in various forms of artistic expression... Photography is a hobby for me. I sculpt withearth and with wood but in small dimensions. Mystronger dedication is painting.

Is there any particular artist who hasinfluenced your work? Or any particular style?El Greco, who started painting Byzantine art. Myteacher at university, Vladimir Zamfirescu, gavethis advice: “Even with very few materials orcolours you can create a great work of art; moreis not necessarily better.” My favorite epochs areRenaissance and Impressionism.

What encouraged you to takeup teaching? It was never my goal to become a teacher. I wasvery talented as a student at university and yearslater, after gaining my bachelor of arts, I receivedan invitation from the department of plastic artsin the Faculty of Art in Bucharest to collaboratewith them. That was an honour for me that Icould not reject.

Can art be taught to someone without anatural talent?The theory can be taught, but without talent youcannot “learn” art.

What prompted you to develop otherdecoration works such as mural paintingand gold leaf?My wish to express myself in other media.An artist must be complete.

What is involved in gold leaf decoration? You need a very good knowledge of thetechnique and a lot of patience to cover anextension of wall with gold leaves, placing themcarefully one by one.

Painting has always been a part ofCristian Stancu’s life and work. Born in Bucharest in1967, his interest in painting began when he wasjust a child: he started his art education at the ageof 10. He studied arts at the “Nicolae Tonitza”high school in Bucharest, and gained a bachelor ofarts at the Faculty of Plastic Arts in Bucharest,where he eventually ended up teaching painting.

The city where he was born is known as the“Little Paris”, due to the architecture of itsbuildings, its great cultural amenities and itsintellectual community, though nowadays thesebuildings no longer exist and the intellectualshave moved to western Europe or North America.

At the University of Bucharest Cristian taughtthe study of colours and all techniques of painting– oil, acrylic, watercolour, etc. – and pictorial artssuch as Venetian, Flemish and Byzantine. He iskeen on the Byzantine arts for cultural reasons;and he dominates the strict cannon of thisancestral historic art. The use of gold in his artworkcan be seen not only in his icons but also in othermedia, objects and surfaces.

Known for his eclectic style, Cristian does notlike to be pigeon-holed. His key quality isversatility: he paints figurative and abstract art,portraits, mural painting, oil on canvas andwood, watercolours, etc. He is a perfectionistand meticulous, with a steady but gentle hand.

The artist has been living in Marbella since2006, having left Rumania to fulfill the increasingdemand of commissions elsewhere in Europe.

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Is it a complicated process? It is indeed very complicated, and overall is adelicate process that means you also have to bephysically fit to stand long hours inuncomfortable postures. For example, ceilingsare especially difficult.

And expensive? It depends on the surface and the squaremetres to cover: a wall, a ceiling, a smallobject, etc., and the kind of gold – 24 kl, 20 kl,18 kl. Once it is done it will last forever, and itdoes not need maintenance.

Has it taken off in Marbella?I have done a few houses here in Marbella, but Ihave worked more in Paris and Berlin.

Why did you decide to move to Marbella(in 2006)? I flew to Marbella to do a mural painting in avilla; and later, restoration at the El Calvariochurch in Marbella. I decided to stay here afterreceiving various commissions. There were otherdecoration works at the time in Berlin and Parisbut, after finishing them, I always came back toMarbella. My intention is to stay here.

What is it you especially like about livingin Marbella?The weather, the place, I find it a privilege to livenext to the sea and the mountains. Now I speakfluent Spanish but when I first moved here I onlyspoke English, which was not a problem at all onthe Coast.

In what special ways does living in Marbellainspire your art?The light of the town stopped me painting withdark colours.

How would you define the Marbellaart scene?There are talented artists here on the Coast.Unfortunately, nowadays there are no privatepeople or public institutions that invest in art;

they are very conservative and they don’t takeany risks, even when the art work is good. Thevalue of art depends on the name of the artist,on his or her popularity, more than the value ofthe art work itself.

Does people’s appreciation of art varydepending on their nationality?No, definitely not. It depends on their education,their cultural background. It is true that in someregions they promote art and people have closercontact to it. But I don’t think it has anything todo with nationality.

art file

Gold leaf hasstarted tobecomeespeciallytrendy inMarbella.

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WILL OVERSIZED FURNITURE FITON MY TERRACE?

I really want to get one ofthose big round beds that

I have seen at Puente Romano, butI live in a penthouse…Suzie, 33, Marbella

We have delivered our beds to some veryawkward places, but have always managed

to complete the job. We have used furniture liftsto put our beds onto top floor terraces here inMarbella and even in Madrid. These lifts comeon a trailer, which can be hired by the hour herein Marbella complete with an operator forapproximately €100. We would be happy toarrange this for our clients, and all of our bedscan be put in place this way if necessary, so ifyou want to chill out on the roof it is not aproblem for us.

Gordon Powell Chill Out Beds SpainTel. 661 328 218 (English)Tel. 607 864 212 (Español)www.chilloutbeds.com

Readers’ ChoiceSTUCK IN A STYLE RUT? ■ NEED SOME GARDENING ADVICE? ■ HAVING TROUBLEWITH YOUR POOL? ■ BEAUTIFUL HOME’S EXPERTS ARE HERE TO HELP

QA

HOW DO I GIVE MY EVENINGGARDEN PARTY THE WOW FACTOR?

I am having a garden partythat will be starting at dusk.

I have a pool and large terrace areaand want my party to be a realtalking point.Emma, 50, Mijas

To have an evening garden party it is alwaysnice to have lights and fire. To get a wow effect

we recommend:1. Place one or two of the fire bowls (with bio-alcohol ) in the entrance area and provide a feelingof a “burning portal” into the garden.2. On the terrace/garden, for ambience and for a longcosy night, the Falo patioheater will accompanyguests with light and warmth.As you have a pool, floating candles might be a goodidea to give some additional atmosphere. Very important: as you are using gas, bio-alcohol andparaffin for burning, there will be no smoke or smell.

Eduard, Pias Chimeneas, Fire and DesignTel. 951 275 693www.pias-chimeneas.com

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specialist advice

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Send us your questions, stating your name, age and town, to [email protected]

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HOW SHOULD I STORE SHOES?

I have a really expensive shoe collection that wouldrival Carrie’s in Sex And The City. If I have them ondisplay I am worried about the dust.

Maria, 41, Marbella

specialist advice

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Send us your questions, stating your name, age and town, to [email protected]

There are various ways of storing shoes:level shelves, slanted shelves, pull-out

shelves, bars, drawers, etc. But when you’retalking about a serious “collection”, meaninglots and lots of shoes, as well as having them ondisplay you do need to take into account the“dust factor”. The first thing that you have tothink about is how many pairs you regularly use,and how many are really for long-term storage.The regularly used shoes and purses can bestored in an open area with no door, as you willautomatically be cleaning them more often. Thelong-term storage should be enclosed behinddoors, and if you want them on display the doorsshould be transparent glass. It does not matter ifthe doors are sliding, bi-folding or hinged doors.If you’re at a large quantity, it is best to havelevel shelves and place a pair of shoes with oneheel facing out and one toe facing out so that

you remember both parts. This also lessens thewidth used for each pair of shoes, thus gettingmore shoes into the same space. The shoesshould be grouped by heel size: i.e. high-heightheels together, medium-height heels together,flats together, etc., and they should be colour-coordinated. The area used for the shoe storageshould not be near a radiator or other source ofheat as it can damage the leather. Also, if thewardrobe has too high a humidity, you need toprovide ventilation and/or anti-humidity bars sothat mould does not form on the collection. Fora final touch, add lavender sachets to keepthings smelling sweet!

Amy ThomasMetropolitan Closet Co.Tel. 915 782 001www.metrocloset.com

QA

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BEAUTIFUL HOME MAGAZINE COMPETITION – ENTRIES MUST BE RECEIVED BY 31 OCTOBER 2009

TWO LED KITSIf you have been down to Ocean Club lately or had a bite to eat atNovelli’s, I am sure you have admired the futuristic lighting whichadds the wow factor to these locations. This was supplied by KSR,an international exterior lighting company on the Coast. LED kitswere used to create certain effects, and they are now offering youthe chance to win two LED kits in a choice of white, blue or green.These are ideal for decking areas or even your gazebo. Light upyour life with KSR!

For a chance to win, just answer the following question. You canfind the answer on the KSR website: www.ksrlighting.com

What type of light is a Futura?

Send the answers, with your name and contact number, to:[email protected] Entries must be received by 31 October 2009.

A STYLISH BIO-ETHANOL FIREPLACE Barra Fontaines & Chiminées recently introduced their range ofproducts to the Coast and have already established themselves as aleading company specialising in artisan fireplaces, fountains andProvencal stone. Originally based in France, they have earned arenowned professional image and high level of internationalclientele thanks to the quality of their work and the authenticity oftheir products.

Barra’s latest product, which has everyone talking, is the range ofbio ethanol fireplaces that combine elegance and modernity, andrun on ecological combustion using a cleaner and renewableenergy that produces no smoke, ashes or odour. Designs rangefrom classic to contemporary and can be easily installed on walls orleft free-standing both inside and out.

For your chance to win a GALLE-O luxurious indoor fireplace,ideal for the winter months and valued at €2,400, just answer thefollowing question. The answer can be found on Barra’s website:

Where and in what year was the original Barra Fontaines &Cheminées workshop founded?

Send the answer, with your name and contact number, to:[email protected] Entries must be received by 31 October 2009.

TO BE WONGREAT PRIZES

A SET OF BARBECUE UTENSILS Aquapool Spas is the only company on the Costa del Sol that sellsHot Spring spas, the world’s number one selling brand. For thegarden or the terrace they also offer luxury garden furniture and theirsleek Sovereign Series barbecues. Aquapool are offering you thechance to win a Barbecue Genius 5 Piece Stainless Steel Tool Set.

This premium tool set with quality stainless steel constructionincludes a replaceable head grill brush with extra replacement head.

For a chance to win, just answer the following question. You canfind the answer on the Aquapool website: www.aquapool.es

What is the “Living Collection’ garden furniture made from?

Send the answer, with your name and contact number, to:[email protected] Entries must be received by 31 October 2009.

competition

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Commissions ■ Murals■ Gold/Silver leafing ■ Portraits

[email protected]

626 250 073

ARTIST – CONRAD C. JONESAny style ■ Any Design

As featured on Katie Price’s reality TV show.

Page 78: Beautiful Home Magazine Issue 002

■ ARCHITECTS

CARLOS LAMAS San Pedro de AlcántaraTel. 952 886 970 / 609 572 275www.carloslamas.com

■ ART

FLOR4U COLLECTIONSwww.flor4u.com

■ STONE & GLASS(SICIS art mosaic)

GuadiaroTel. 956 695 [email protected]

■ BUILDING & OTHER SERVICES

A1 SAFE SECURE ELECTRICIANS ManilvaTel. 952 891 924 / 671 281 757

FIBER PROTECTORTel. 952 928 963www.fiberprotector.es

PROPERTY PAINTERTel. 951 319 199 / 606 788 630www.propertypainter.es

TOTAL BUILDINGAltos de La QuintaNueva AndalucíaTel. 622 541 722

■ FINANCE, INVESTMENTAND INSURANCE

JYSKE BANK GibraltarTel. (+) 350 [email protected]

KNIGHT INSURANCE BROKERSLos BolichesTel 952 660 535www.knight-insurance.com

■ FIREPLACES

PIAS CHIMENEASNueva AndalucíaTel. 951 275 693 / 617 649 [email protected]

■ FURNITURE & FURNISHINGS

BOCONCEPTMijasTel. 951 242 092

CHILLOUT BEDSPol. La CampanaTel. 661 328 218www.chilloutbeds.com

DICKSONwww.infotoldo.es

DIVINE CURTAINS (MARBELLA)Tel. 952 850 [email protected]

EL CORTE INGLÉSEl Capricho Tel. 952 902 390

GLASS CURTAINS Mijas CostaTel. 902 433 435 [email protected]

GUNNI GLOBAL STORE MarbellaTel. 951 968 771www.gunni.es

■ INTERIOR DESIGN SERVICES ■ PROPERTY ADVICE ■ DÉCOR PRODUCTS ■ EXCLUSIVE SHOPPING ■ OUTDOOR LIVING

BEAUT IFUL HOME READERS ’ OFFER ON PAGE 47

A comprehensive directory of decoration & décor, furniture & furnishings and landscapegardening outlets, as well as other property orientated companies on the Costa del Sol

Business and Services Directory

■ BATHROOMS

CASA DEL MÁRMOLSan Pedro de AlcántaraTel. 952 799 661www.casadelmarmol.com

STEINBERG MarbellaTel. 952 764 083www.steinberg.es

■ BEDROOMS

BEDS OF SWEDEN C.C CalahondaTel. 952 939 377www.bedsofsweden.com

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BEAUT IFUL HOME READERS ’ OFFER ON PAGE 47

SPOTON DESIGNNueva AndalucíaTel. 952 780 310www.spoton.es

THE SHADE SAIL COMPANYMijas Costa Tel. 952 930 959www.theshadesailcompany.com

SUN SQUAREMarbellaTel. 951 968 368

TODO MADERAEsteponaTel. 952 793 391www.todomaderaestepona.com

UNOPIÚ ESPACE MARBELLAMarbellawww.unopiu.es

■ GARDENS & FLOWERS

JHK SPECIAL GARDENNueva AndalucíaTel. 952 897 911www.jhkspecialgarden.com

SOTOGARDENSotograndeTel. 956 795 716/956 795 694/956 785 033 www.paradise-garden.net

■ HOME AUTOMATIONAND ENTERTAINMENT

BANG & OLUFSENPuerto BanúsTel. 952 817 [email protected]

DOMOSATPol. Ind. La QuintaTel. 952 787 357www.domosat.com

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IMPERIALMijasTel. 902 147 148

JENSEN STORE (beds)Nueva AndalucíaTel. 952 908 855

LAS TELAS DEL PORTICOPuerto BanúsTel. 952 908 479

LAURA ASHLEYMarbellaTel. 952 76 47 42

METROPOLITAN CLOSETMarbellaTel. 902 446 044 / 952 903 977www.metrocloset.com

ROCHE BOBOISMarbellaTel. 952 777 858www.roche-bobois.com

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SMART SYSTEMSSan Pedro de AlántaraTel. 952 799 344www.smartsystems.es

■ HOMEWARE (online)

NEXT DIRECTORYwww.nextdirectory.eu

■ INTERIOR DESIGNAND DECORATION

AMBIENCE HOME DESIGNPol. Ind. San Pedro NorteTel. 952 853 [email protected]

ANA MORENOFuengirolaTel. 952 479 858www.anamorenodecoracion.comwww.toldosmoreno.com

BARBARA IFFLANDTel. 952 494 282 / 610 522 [email protected]

CORTIJO LAS FLORESSan EnriqueTel. 956 615 143 [email protected]

GASTON Y DANIELA MarbellaTel. 952 774 224www.gastonydaniela.com

KABILA (ANTOLINI)Pol. Ind. San PedroTel. 952 799 398info@kabila-décor.comwww.kabila-décor.com

BEAUT IFUL HOME READERS ’ OFFER ON PAGE 47

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LOFT DESIGNSan Pedro de AlcántaraTel. 951 969 179www.loftdesign.es

PAULA MONAGHANFuengirolaTel. 952 493 895

PATRICIA DARCH INTERIORSTorreguadiaro (Sotogrande)Tel. 956 615 3510

RICHARD LEWIS INTERIORSGuadalmina Tel. 952 896 901

RWK Nueva AndalucíaTel. 952 906 622

THE KITCHEN ROOMEsteponaTel. 952 896 336www.thekitchenroom.com

■ LAWYERS

HASSANSTel. +350 200 79000Chis White (tax partner):[email protected] de Beresford (tax consultant):[email protected] Smart (tax adviser): www.hassans.gi

■ LIGHTING

DOMOSATPol. Ind. La QuintaTel. 952 787 357www.domosat.com

ECO LIGHTINGwww.eco-led-lights.com

KSR LIGHTING EUROPE San PedroTel. 627 556 [email protected]

■ PHOTOGRAPHY (homes & décor)

DAVID TOMSTel. 690 656 [email protected]

■ REAL ESTATE & PROPERTY

KRISTINA SZEKELY(SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTYTel. 952 810 [email protected]

WHITE DESIGN COMPANYLa Cala de MijasTel. 952 494 155www.whitedesignco.com

■ KITCHENS

CLIVE CHRISTIANEsteponaTel. 952 808 [email protected]

KITCHEN CONCEPTS (HÄCKER)San Pedro de AlcántaraTel. 952 799 307SotograndeTel. 956 793 [email protected]

BEAUT IFUL HOME READERS ’ OFFER ON PAGE 47

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Pol. Ind. La Quinta N. 1 • Ctra. de Ronda km. 168.5 • 29670 San Pedro Alcántara • Málaga • Spain

Tel: (+34) 952 787 357Fax: (+34) 952 782 680 • [email protected] • www.domosat.com

Home Cinema, Lighting and Automation Centre

Page 84: Beautiful Home Magazine Issue 002

THE WORLDS MOST BEAUTIFUL FURNITURE

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OPENING HOURS: MON-FRI 09.00 / 18.00

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