ROCO Spring Issue 8

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No. 8ISSUE

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The latest project of London-based interiors firm Louis Henri is a breathtaking apartment located in one of Paris most desirable neighbourhoods. View the project and read our interview with Louis on page 18.

ISSUE No 8INTERIOR DESIGN QUARTERLY

Spring Issue


EDITOR'SLETTER

When it comes to spring, I love the feeling of life starting to burst through from cherry blossoms to baby lambs. With nature coming alive, it seemed fitting in this issue to include a spectacular home shoot set in the countryside. In stark contrast but still bursting with colour and life we have also featured a loft in London, designed with flair and fashion. If like me your kitchen is the heart of the home, you will relish our inspiration gallery on kitchen design from across the country. We where also privileged to interview designer to stars Kishani Perera whose clients include the fabulous Rachel Bilson and interview designer Louis Henri who just completed a magnificent Paris apartment – a must read! As always we have packed the magazine full of interior trends, fashion for the season, recipes, restaurant and hotel reviews to keep you enthralled and inspired. As we toast the Spring Issue with a glass of bubbly (off course), I would like to thank all our kind readers for their continued support and comments. It is our absolute pleasure creating this magazine for you!

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

RACHAEL COLTON

1 8

1 0

REGULARS WORLD OF ROCO

8 CONTRIBUTORS

FASHION TRENDS

MEET THE DESIGNER

Louis Henri

9 8 EDITORS CHOICE

STOP THE PRESS DESIGN NEWS

WORLD OF ROCO

3 2

2 6

6 64 8

FEATURES

MEET THE DESIGNER

Kishani Perera

HOME SHOOT

Big Living

HOME SHOOT

Spring Country Charm

10

1 0 2

ISSUE No 8INTERIOR DESIGN QUARTERLY 6

4 4

INSPIRATION GALLERY

Kitchen Design

9 0

7 4 RAPTURE & WRIGHT

Peter & Rebecca

BLOGGER

My Favourite Room

1 0 8

1 0 0 LETICIA’S TRENDS

Under the Sea

PRODUCT REVIEW

Dara Huang

1 1 2DESIGNER HOTEL

Blakes London

1 2 4

9 8

RESTAURANT

The National Grande Cafe

TASTE NOTES

Spring Recipes

BESPOKE WEDDINGS

A Rustic Irish Summer

9 2LOVE ART

Fanny Nushka Moreaux

74

1 1 2

9 8

2 6

3 2

1 1


4 8

1 24

4 4

ADVERTISING

ROB GAMAGE

Advertising DirectorSARAH FYFFE

Photography

ISSUE No 8 8INTERIOR DESIGN QUARTERLY

tea mthe

EVE BRANNON

Fashion Stylist

SHAUN HANNA

Taste Notes

LETICIA BLANCO

Interior Trends

RACHAEL COLTON

Editor-in-Chief

COLUMNISTS

PHOTOGRAPHY

EDITOR

DIANE ROWAN

Restaurant Review

COLUMNISTS


MARKS AND SPENCER

HOME RANGE

Dine rustic this spring with Marks and Spencer home range. Chose from a selection of wooden chopping boards and bowls for a back to nature look. Visit www.marksandspencer.com

D ES I GN N EWSS T O P T H E P R E S S


WILLOW AND HALL SOFA BED

A beautiful and stylish sofa, with a modern edge. The Elmley 2 Seater Sofa Bed is smart and easy on the eye with lines that perfectly blend sleek modern style and traditional sofa snugness so you can sit, lie and generally be very idle in fabulous comfort. For free fabric samples or to order, customers can call 0845 468 0577 or visit www.willowandhall.co.uk

REVOLVE PENDANT BRASS & PETROL BLUE

For pendant lights with handsome appeal, Robbie Llewellyn's collection at British brand Bert Frank is the epitome of original, cutting-edge lighting design at its best. Whether hung low over a dining table or kitchen island for an intimate feel or used as a side light in the bedroom, pendant lights are extremely versatile. Designed to oppose today's throw-away culture, each lighting solution is expertly crafted by master craftsmen in the UK that enlist the highest standards of traditional manufacturing practices to ensure each is built to last. The Revolve pendant is a striking light offering a warm functional glow through its opal diffuser. Light also escapes through the top brass feature to add highlight to the spun metal shade. Bert Frank, £475.

loves


THE SOFA & CHAIR COMPANY LAUNCH NEW SS/14 COLLECTION

This year luxury British furniture manufacturer The Sofa & Chair Company are handcrafting heritage from the ground up, with the introduction of a glamorous new collection for the Spring/Summer season. The new collection includes a full range of lavish deep buttoned sofas, occasion chairs and even a stylish new dining chair.

Included in the collection are grand pieces like the Windsor; an inviting and distinctive piece with deep buttoning set into the arms and back. Windsor epitomises the company’s craftsmanship and quality; with each one of the deep-button placements calculated and upholstered by hand.

Also featured in the collection is the ‘Oscar’, the company’s first fully fledged range of loveseats, chairs and barstools; all unified by their intricate deep buttoning and elegant contours. Chic curves and a deep buttoned back are the hallmarks of these pieces, with an optional swivel plinth and sumptuous layers of padding as standard.

To view the full range visit www.thesofaandchair.co.uk

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TEXTURED WALL ART

Over the last few years WallArt has certainly set a new standard for wall decoration with their original and eco friendly 3D wall panels. These remarkable panels are made from the fibrous residue of sugarcane, called bagasse. This natural material is 100% recycled and compostable and therefore 100% degradable.

DIAMOND SCULPTURE {LIMITED EDITION}

Striking, modern, alluring, Dam’s wall structures and limited edition Diamond sculpture are artistic objects that call out for your attention. Bodie and Fou, £245.

MODERN SILK

James Hare, Prism Silks range is young fresh and modern. With a palette of sophisticated colours and strong geometric designs, these fabrics are perfect for curtains, bedheads, blinds, lampshades, cushions and other decorative detailing.

Sofa Beds • Sofas • Armchairs • Mattresses

For FREE fabric samples, call us on0845 468 0577 or visit www.willowandhall.co.uk

Hand-made to order in WiltshireQuality, comfort and style without the high street price tag

W+H_ROCO_07.02.14_AW.pdf 1 07/02/2014 10:28


OLD LONDON COLLECTION

The Old London collection of high quality traditional bathroom furniture is now available from 4bathrooms.

Featuring a muted colour palette of ivory, pistachio, stone grey and the natural looking walnut range, the Old London bathroom furniture collection enables you to tailor your bathroom to suit your individual needs. Every item in the collection is made to the highest quality and is ideal for those wishing to make a more personal statement within the home.

Whichever range you choose you will find matching vanity units, mirrors & mirror cabinets, tallboys, storage units, bath panels and even a perfectly matched toilet seat. All the Old London bathroom furniture ranges feature strong Victorian and Edwardian design cues with Art Deco influences evident.

You can currently save 15% off the entire Old London bathroom collection until the end of March simply by ordering from 4bathrooms - www.4bathrooms.co.uk/old-london

TREEHOUSE BED

How exciting is this - a bed in a treehouse! They will never want to leave, make their imaginations come alive. Desres Design, £1305.

www.4bathrooms.co.uk

0844 8 222 444 www.4bathrooms.co.uk/old-london

Stone grey range from the Old London bathroom collectionIvory, pistachio and natural walnut finishes are also available


LOUIS HENRITHE LATEST PROJECT OF

LONDON-BASED INTERIORS

FIRM LOUIS HENRI IS A

BREATHTAKING APARTMENT

LOCATED IN ONE OF PARIS’

MOST DESIRABLE

NEIGHBOURHOODS. COMPLETED

IN MAY 2012 AND LOCATED ON

THE FASHIONABLE AVENUE

MONTAIGNE, THIS

GENEROUSLY PROPORTIONED

LATERAL APARTMENT HAS BEEN

EXTENSIVELY REMODELED TO

EXACTING STANDARDS.

MEET THE DESIGNER

WHAT WAS THE BRIEF/FUNCTION/DESIRE ETC. BEHIND YOUR RECENT PROJECT IN PARIS?

The brief was simple, to create a retreat that was fresh, something that the clients hadn’t seen before, that was finished to the highest standard possible. Other than this, I was given free rein to present a suitable design for the apartment.

THIS NEWLY COMPLETED PARIS

APARTMENT BY LOUIS HENRI

HAS EVERYTHING FROM

FURNITURE TO RUGS,

CHANDELIERS TO DOOR

HANDLES ALL CUSTOM MADE,

TO THE HIGHEST

UNCOMPROMISING STANDARDS

OF ‘GRAND LUXE’.

WE TALK TO THE DESIGNER

ABOUT THIS NEW PROJECT AND

WERE HIS LOVE FOR

INTERIORS COMES FROM.


PHOTOGRAPHY BYRICHARD WAITE

DESIGNERLOUIS HENRI


WHAT DID YOU FIND MUST CHALLENGING AND REWARDING WITH THE FINAL DESIGN?

The language barrier was a challenge. I can understand French now but it was a different story when I started. It’s a slow process and I’m still learning.

Assembling pieces on-site was sometimes a challenge. Various components arrived from different specialists, often from different countries; we had to hope everything fitted together. Only one or two pieces out of a hundred needed adjusting so it was a success in the end.

The most rewarding part of the project was when two articulated lorries blocked the whole of Avenue Montaigne and Avenue Champs Elysees. A crew of 10-15 hoisted every one of the carefully designed, prototyped, individual elements into the apartment with my brother, who came up from Johannesburg to help put the apartment together as a unified statement.

After 4 years spent on 3500sqft of the finest part of Paris, seeing the finished project was rewarding!


“We asked for an apartment in Paris, and you’ve given us a palace in Paris."-the client


LOUIS HENRIAVENUE MONTAIGNE, PARIS


WHAT WAS THE DRIVING FORCE BEHIND YOUR CAREER IN INTERIORS?

I come from a family of engineers and landscape designers so problem solving and design have always been part of my life. I started studying Product Design at the University of Johannesburg but changed to Interior Architecture after six months. It just seemed to be a better fit. Interior Design is Product Design on a larger scale. The idea that you can influence someone’s mood just by putting them in the right environment is very exciting. There’s nothing

better than seeing the result of up to four years of hard work (and a little bit of imagination).

WHO DO YOU ADMIRE WHEN IT COMES TO DESIGN?

I admire so many people. I think we are all influenced by our predecessors, it’s like the metaphor on the £2 coin which reads “standing on the shoulders of giants”. I admire The Egyptians, The Romans, The Ancient Greeks but also modern designers like Andre Arbus and Alberto Pinto.

WHERE DO YOU FIND INSPIRATION?

I am inspired by everything. Nature is a very important design aesthetic for me, life is stranger than fiction and the same goes for nature, the ever changing patterns of dried seaweed patterns, coral, etc., are so inspiring. I also find the South African sensibility inspiring. I’m still inspired by much of the Edwardian architecture in Johannesburg, especially the work of English architect Sir Herbert Baker.


.

For further information on Louis Henri visit www.louishenri.com

WHAT WAS THE BEST ADVICE YOU RECEIVED WHEN IT CAME TO INTERIOR DESIGN?

To stay true to the original concept; when choosing something for an interior ask yourself ‘does this add or subtract from what your trying to achieve’, if you’re unsure then leave it.

The other being if you love it, buy it.


K I S H A N I P E R E R A


WHERE DO YOU FIND INSPIRATION?

Everywhere! Fashion, art, music, driving, people, nature, travel, cultures, food, you name it! WHO DO YOU ADMIRE WHEN IT COMES TO DESIGN?

Tony Duquette has remained a design hero throughout my career.WHAT WAS THE BEST ADVICE YOU RECEIVED WHEN IT CAME TO INTERIOR DESIGN?

If your client doesn’t like something you’ve selected or proposed, don’t take it personally.

FROM THE FINEST SHOWROOMS

IN PARIS TO THE HIDDEN

GEMS OF EBAY, INTERIOR

DESIGNER KISHANI PERERA

RELIES ON A MULTITUDE

OF RESOURCES TO CREATE

BEAUTIFUL SPACES THAT

HAVE SEEMINGLY EVOLVED

OVER DECADES RATHER THAN

MONTHS. THIS ABILITY TO

BLEND THE RECLAIMED WITH

REFINED, THE ORDINARY WITH

ORNAMENTAL, HAS ATTRACTED

A LOYAL FOLLOWING WHO

HAVE COME TO DEPEND ON HER

IMAGINATION AND INVENTIVE

USE OF RESOURCES TO

CULTIVATE HOMES THAT ARE

BOTH CHIC AND LIVABLE.

WHEN NOT COLLABORATING

WITH HER ECLECTIC GROUP OF

CLIENTS INCLUDING RACHEL

BILSON, OR INDULGING HER

WORKAHOLIC TENDENCIES,

KISHANI CAN BE FOUND

ROCKING OUT TO ANYTHING

FROM WORLD TO PUNK, INDIE

TO OLDIES, SCAVENGING FOR

HIDDEN TREASURES, BAKING

UP VEGAN DELIGHTS, AND

WANDERING THE TOWN WITH

HER PUGS DAYDREAMING

ABOUT HER NEXT ADVENTURE.


"I have a crazy passion for all things design, vintage, antique, and creating comfortable and cool environments."


lifelong dream, and in 2011, I had the opportunity to create this magical space. I’d been collecting for decades, (and had several storage spaces to show for it!) so had some amazing gems with which to fill the store. I love scouring the globe for unique pieces and being able to share them with the people who enjoy the shop. It’s a creative, inspiring and inviting space, I love being there and hope everyone that comes through the door feels the same!!

What if I select the wrong piece size wise and we ship it all the to NYC at great expense? We had no floor plans, just sketches and quick notes to base it all on, so it was really nerve wracking. Thankfully, every piece worked as planned, and the space turned out to be one of my favorite projects to date!

YOU ALSO RUN YOUR OWN RETAIL BOUTIQUE "RUMMAGE" CAN YOU TELL US MORE ABOUT IT?

Opening a shop had been a

WHAT WAS YOUR MUST CHALLENGING/REWARDING PROJECT?

I did a project in NYC, where I saw the space, (for the first time), for a matter of hours, then immediately flew to Paris with my client that same day to shop for the entire apartment, that was terrifying! I had about 2 hours to photograph and measure this enormous space, (3000 square feet), and was plagued with questions like, did I measure wrong? Did I have the space drawn out correctly?


For further information on Kishani Perera services visit ww.kishaniperera.com


INSPIRATION GALLERY

K I T C H E N D E S I G NBe inspired with our guide to Kitchen Design!

The Chicago designer, Mick De Giulio, with whom SieMatic collaborated on the first BeauxArts collection, created new elements, materials, colours, door-styles, and proportions. These new elements lend a more linear and lighter appearance while special details add a unique elegance. Prices for Siematic kitchen furniture starts from £12,000. www.siematic.co.uk


ALNO kitchens have represented the highest quality. The AlnoPol design shown is elaborately lacquered in high-gloss to create a brilliant shine that exudes sophistication. For more information telephone 01924 487900www.alnokitchens.co.uk

This bespoke kitchen is by Matthew Burt, with lower cabinets and peninsular island in blasted English ash, plus a Pippy Tiger Oak cantilevered bar and worksurface with fissures and knots filled with contrasting bronze resin. The peninsular island is finished with a copper splashback adding metallic glamour .

Kitchens from £30,000.Contact Matthew Burt on 01747 820 511 www.matthewburt.com



Elegant form and simple detailing make the Greenhill modern classic kitchen that bit unique. The inspiration behind this design came from the "reflection of water". A combination of subtle hues, mirror, glass and marble has been interpreted to create a kitchen that blends classicism with cutting-edge design. Available in a range of hand painted finishes. For more information telephone 02885568631 www.greenhillkitchens.co.uk


When it comes to kitchen design it doesn’t come much more on trend than sexy, sleek curves and a high gloss white finish. Like the city it takes its name from, the sensational New York is a design with so much character. To find the nearest showroom or to arrange a free design consultation ( for a detailed no obligation quote) visit www.bettaliving.co.uk or call 0808 159 3416.


Macassar kitchen by bespoke cabinet maker, Smallbone of Devizes, features a large central island with a hand painted finish and recessed polished nickel handles to complete the look. Kitchens start at £40,000020 7589 5998 [email protected]


CHIC GLASS KITCHEN FROM ÜBER

Über furniture’s Zen kitchen comes in two versatile colours – Pearl (purest white) and Pavilion (green grey) – and is made of glass for an extra chic look.

The doors comprise of acid dipped, painted 3mm glass bonded to an acrylic edged 18mm chipboard substrate for a silk, easy-to-clean finish.

For more information, please contact MGA Distributors on 01384 638700 or visit www.uberfurniture.co.uk.

41


Roundhouse Urbo bespoke kitchen is in matt lacquer, Pearl Ashes 3 by Fired Earth with the island in matt lacquer Graphite 4 by Fired Earth. The worktops are in Quartzstone white 04 and the breakfast bar in Wholestave American Black Walnut. Splashbacks in colourblocked glass. Roundhouse kitchens start at £30,000. 020 7297 6220www.roundhousedesign.com


THE FOLD IS A VISIONARY CENTERPIECE INSPIRED BY THE IDEA OF AN ISLAND, BEING A SEGREGATED UNIQUE OBJECT. CREATED BY DESIGN HAUS LIBERTY THE ISLAND MERGES ART AND DESIGN TO CREATE A UNIQUE FOLDED KITCHEN ISLAND. WHICH IS AS FUNCTIONAL AS IT IS BEAUTIFUL.

D A R A H U A N G PRODUCT REVIEW


materiality and spacecutting edge over three offices in Shanghai, London and Hong Kong.

Dara graduated with her BA in Architecture, Summa Cum Laude and received her Masters Degree in Architecture at Harvard University, where she subsequently taught studio that summer.

Talking exclusively to ROCO, Dara explains the inspiration and challenges in designing this innovative island -

"The inspiration came from our passion for modern

art, architecture and materiality. There was also a gap in the market for something interesting as well as functional. Our office finds a way to make every day things unique, so to come up with an interesting kitchen island was a play on the word "island" which is defined as 'being isolated or detached'. In that sense our island doesn't just blend in with the rest of the kitchen.

The challenge wasn't really in the concept, though it took a while to get the facets balanced perfectly through 3d modeling, I think the real challenge was figuring out how

The FOLD, Kitchen Island

The piece can be custom built to fit any sized kitchen and contain different functional features such as: cutting blocks, plate warmers, wine fridge, bin storage and dish washer. Besides copper, the island can also be customized to other finishes including stone, concrete, wood and other various metal.

Design Haus Liberty was founded by Dara Huang not only to shape space but also to define experiences and alter the way we perceive program. Established in November 2012, the talented team of architectsplanners and designers create projects in a studio-focused atmosphere combining: art,


to manufacture it perfectly and make it equally durable. It had to be beautiful and useful at the same time.

We actually designed a kitchen to go with the island. You can see this in the renderings. I picture the kitchen being like a clean canvas- white corian tops and matt white units. Though, to give it a ultimate lux touch, we've incorporated extra wide top units that are finished with frosted mirrored glass.

"My background is art and architecture, so of course my previous Swiss bosses Herzog de Meuron have taught me alot.Kengo Kuma for materiality and Japanese aesthetics. I also admire my professor from Harvard and London architect, Farshid Moussavi, who is a huge inspiration for women in design."

To view more on this design or be inspired by other works by DESIGN HAUS LIBERTY visit www.dhliberty.com

The island is bespoke, so it can be customised to any dimension as well fitting any appliances in it. It also comes in other finishes such as polished concrete, stone, mirror, or even chrome. It also features luxury details such as soft closed doors, knife blocks and internal organisers depending on how you use your kitchen."

When asked who inspires her, Dara replied -

Beautifully designed and handmade in England – contemporary to classical

Signature Carpets . Pennine Park . Valley Road . Hebden Bridge . HX7 7BZ

Call to request a brochure or a design consultation01422 845075 or email [email protected]

www.luxurybespokecarpets.co.uk

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Change the way you sleep. Forever. Best Bed Linen Ltd . The Old Granary . Mile Barn Farm . Hemel Hempstead Road . Dagnall . HP4 3EG

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Late? You will be......


S PR I NG COUNTRY CHARMFarm Living in Vesby

PHOTOGRAPHY BYANNETTECHRISTIAN.COM

WRITTEN BYLIVING4MEDIA / MARIANA SCHROEDER

INTERIOR DESIGNANNETTE NORDSTRØM

1

Interior designer and photographer Annette Nordstrom has transformed a typical red 19th century farmhouse into a perfect country refuge. The interior is constantly changing as she adds new exciting things to the grey and blue interior. She loves to blend objects gathered during her globe-trotting expeditions with antique Norwegian

furniture for a mix uniquely her own.

Annette Nordstrom and Christian Thorsby are two creative souls who spend much of their time travelingaround the world to find inspiration for their design and creative work. After much travel and a hectic life in the city both feel a great need to relax in the

OWNERS

CHRISTIAN & ANNETTE

PROPERTY

19th Century Farm

LOCATION

NORWAY

PHOTOGRAPH 1Farm

PHOTOGRAPH 2Grass

PHOTOGRAPH 3Christian and Annette

2 3



winter I often work in Morocco and wanted to have some of the designs around me here in Norway. And when all is said and done I buy a lot of furniture from Ikea and transform it into my own style by painting or adding cushions and other accessories.”

Annette’s farm is about an hour away from Oslo near the town of Vestby. It is an area with a lot of working farms. “What I love about the farm is that it is all alone in the woods and no other farms close by. It givesme a lot of freedom to work outside the whole spring, summer and autumn,” says the attractive blond photographer.

She also wanted to give the old farm house, which had been in her family, a new twist through the interior design. She chose a palette of blues and soothing greys. The allure of owning a traditional small farm house built in 1890 inspired her to turn it into a delightful escape from city life in Oslo. Despite the fact that she has her personal, distinctive style and a thing for subtle colour, the interior of the house is constantly changing. Annette uses it to test new ideas and

decorative concepts. Annette’strademark is an eclectic mix of design motifs. “I don’t go crazy about the colours. Somehow when I see an object, I know if the colour will be compatible or not.”

Some of the furniture and objects were inherited; others come from India or Morocco where Annette often shops for exciting objects to mix into her interiors. She loves adding an exotic touch and great art. “Mystyle is a kind of fusion between the Scandinavia and North Africa, with a soft feminine feeling,” she says.

The long dining table from Ikea was perfect because Annette and Christian often entertain friends. “We have casual dinners inside when the weather is bad. In the summertime I love to eat outside in the garden.”

Her cooking style is as eclectic as her decorating. “I love local products and there is always plenty of salmon. In the summer we get fresh produce and eggs from the local farmers. The food is simple, homemade and uncomplicated. Having people over isn’t about slaving

rural idyll of their Norwegian farm. There, they can connectwith nature and completely enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and the beautiful scenery.

They work as photographers and stylists and often use their weekend country home as a location for fashion shoots and interior stories. They draw inspiration from nature and include motifs from the landscape into many of their photos and designs. "When I come into the country the weight falls off my shoulders and I feel a special sense of peace,” says Annette. "I am almost breathless with joy. It does not feel like work when you are doing a production out here. That's when I realize how privileged we are to be able to work as we do," adds Christian.

Annette loves to blend oriental accessories with Norwegian furniture for a mix uniquely her own. “I really struggled to make this interior truly mine, and I was determined to make it as cute as possible withoutspending a lot of money,” says Annette. “I decorated the farm with a mix of personal things and furniture I got from my family and things I brought with me from Morocco. In the

53

in the kitchen – but enjoying time spent with friends.”

Annette divides her time between her city apartment and the farm. “I also have an apartment in the city butI need to be close to the nature to get creative,” she explains. She sewed her own curtains using white linen. The living room is papered with elegant navy wallpaper over white


things,” she advises.

She now works with her partner and companion Christian Thorsbye, who has a lifestyle blog called www.lifebychristian.com. Annette and Christian formed their own company so they can work with everything from complete redesign of an interior to creating unique beauty and fashion accessories.

wainscoting. Cushions in various patterns of blue fabric complement the look. They are from her collection available at Maison du Pastel. In the bedroom Annette shows that curtain rods can be used in exciting, inventive ways. She uses them to create a canopy. The fabric is from her Maison du Pastel collection. “Curtains can be used in many ways – to divide a room or hide ugly


"When I come into the country the weight falls off my shoulders and I feel a special sense of peace..."

PHOTOGRAPH 1Outdoor Fire

PHOTOGRAPH 4Flowers in Living Room

PHOTOGRAPH 2View from Window

PHOTOGRAPH 5Champagne

PHOTOGRAPH 3Flowers in Crate

PHOTOGRAPH 6Annette

After a long working day outdoors they are happy to continue in front of the fireplace where they draw and prepare new layouts and designs for their blogs and collections. "The job is in many ways our lifestyle and a regular part of our lives. But that's the way we like to have it," says Christian.

43

1

6

5

2


DON'T BE AFRAID TO MIX PATTERNS WITH YOUR CUSHIONS. THE KEY IS TO KEEP THEM IN THE SAME PALETTE

PANELLING IN COOL GREYS AND WHITES IS A KEY FACET TO THIS LOOK

COLLECT ANTIQUE PIECES TO SET AGAINST CLEAN NEUTRAL BACKGROUNDS

DESIGN IT

Y O U R S E L F


PANELLING IN COOL GREYS AND WHITES IS A KEY FACET TO THIS LOOK

CREATE A VINTAGE LOOK WITH RATTAN CHAIRS PAINTED WHITE AND LACE TABLE SETTINGS

BLUE THROWS AND CUSHIONS FEATURE HEAVILY IN THIS HOME. ADD HINTS OF BLUE THROUGH ALL ROOMS FOR A COHESIVE LOOK



B I G L I V I NG

PHOTOGRAPHY BYBÄRBEL MIEBACH

WRITTEN BYLIVING4MEDIA

Living and working in a loft apartment

Juan Carlos Quintana is a talented London-based fashion designer who combines Latin American flare with haut couture. He learned his trade from two Spanish masters who had formerly worked for the house of Balenciaga in Spain. When he launched his fashion label Quintana in London he needed a place to work and live. He found the solution in

an unlikely place – a former canning factory in Shoreditch, on the south bank of the Thames River.

Before moving into his super-sized loft he had lived in a modest one-room apartment or bedsit in Chelsy. The difference could hardly be any greater – before, a small, cramped space, now a huge,

PHOTOGRAPH 1Kitchen

PHOTOGRAPH 2Sideboard

PHOTOGRAPH 3Chris and Juan

2 3


OWNERS

CHRIS & JUAN

PROPERTY

Loft

LOCATION

SHOREDITCH, LONDON


"We felt as if we were sleeping in a park or football field"

Guatemala, arrived in London in 2002, working first as a freelance fashion designer for Matthew Williamson, Jenny Packham and Michiko Koshino. As he had already had more than ten years of experience as a fashion designer in South and Latin America he finally plucked up the courage to head for Europe and set up his own label

PHOTOGRAPH 1Piano

PHOTOGRAPH 2Bath

two-storey loft in an erstwhile canning factory in London’s East End. Juan Carlos and Chris, a screenwriter friend, initially had to overcome a few difficulties in adapting. “We felt as if we were sleeping in a park or football field, ” says Chris, who felt lost in the vastness of the neo-Gothic building.

Juan Carlos, who comes from


2

ISSUE No 5INTERIOR DESIGN QUARTERLY 74ISSUE No 8INTERIOR DESIGN QUARTERLY


Quintana, which proved very successful when he held his first show in Paris in 2008.

Creativity at work generally translates in a kind of genius on every level of life. Clever ideas come quickly to Juan Carlos and his friend in their private sphere as well. For instance the problem of feeling lost in theirloft was solved simply by setting up a protective tent in which the fashion designer and the screenwriter slept for theirfirst year in the loft. It also had the advantage of lessening the pressure they felt to turn theformer factory into a home from one day to the next. They took their time converting the industrial space and it paid off.

They gradually structured their flat with contemporary design and vintage objects they collected from flea markets and antique fairs in London. One of the first items they bought was the white leather Poltronacorner sofa, which stands in the middle of the flat like a sculpture. The kitchen and bathrooms fittings followed, and finally the fine-art touches with paintings and objets d’art. It was only then that the ceiling-high Gothic windows, the red clinkered walls and the open roof construction accentuated the loft to perfection.

PHOTOGRAPH 1Side Table

PHOTOGRAPH 2Living Room

The flat is at the same time Juan Carlos’ atelier and studio, so many of his designs are there on mannequins or on open racks. “I love women. When designing, I think of my client‘s personality, her shape and her aura. It’s all about enhancing her intrinsic beauty, ” says the talented couturier. For him the process of making a dress, from the sketch to the finished article, is something deeply


2

inspiring – no wonder the working environment had to be right.

Just as each of his fashion items is one of a kind, the style of the flat is also unique and original. Juan’s genius is in combining his Latin American flair for colour and texture, his predilection for vintage chic and his youthful attitude to life. He put butterflies in the


bathroom and suspended ball pendants on the ceiling.

There is also a swing hanging from the timberwork. “I find it ideal for building up new momentum for work, ”laughs the young designer.The two friends are not quite finished with furnishing their flat. The next phase of decoration is alreadyplanned out. In the rafters above the kitchen they plan to build a tree-house to provide an addition refuge inthe vast space.

BRING A FUN FEEL INTO A SPACE WITH BUTTERFLY WALLPAPER

DISCO BALLS, CREATE A FANTASTIC FEATURE IN THIS LARGE SPACE

BRIGHT COLOURS ARE KEY TO THIS LOOK, PAINTED YELLOW STAIRS A PURPLE RUNNER AND A VIBRANT RED ROPE COMPLETE THE LOOK

DESIGN IT

Y O U R S E L F


DISCO BALLS, CREATE A FANTASTIC FEATURE IN THIS LARGE SPACE

USE A SILVER TRUNK AS A COFFEE TABLE BRINGING AN ECLECTIC, VINTAGE VIBE

WHY NOT STACK BOOKS UP TO CREATE AN INSTANT BESIDE TABLE FULL OF COLOUR


RAPTURE & WRIGHTFABRIC PARADISE FLOWER


Rapture & Wright make beautiful fabrics and wallpapers the hard way. Using traditional hand printing techniques and small-scale production they create bold designs that are an antidote to an outsourced, mass-produced, impersonal world. Founded in 2004 by Peter Thwaites & Rebecca Aird, Rapture and Wright thrives on the limitations imposed by printing from a barn in the Cotswolds.


RAPTURE& WRIGHT

Using artisan skills to produce clever, modern designs, the company makes every effort to keep other crafts alive by printing on 100% British stock.

We interview Peter about the company's beginnings, inspiration, style and future.

WHAT WAS THE DRIVING FORCE TO CREATE RAPTURE AND WRIGHT?

Having both trained as graphic designers, I had quite soon realised that I enjoyed working in 3D and for 15 years had been working with interior designers, creating hand painted wallpapers. However this meant that I could be on site anywhere in the world at anytime and frequently was. By then, Rebecca too had left Graphic Design and was running a mosaic studio. She too was beginning to travel extensively. We both decided we needed to create a product that didn't require us to be on site all the time and could be manufactured in the studio.

WHAT IS YOUR BACKGROUNDS?

Graphic design and illustration.

YOU USE A BARN IN THE COTSWOLDS TO PRODUCE YOUR FABRICS AND WALLPAPERS, DO YOU FIND THIS LOCATION INSPIRING OR PERHAPS CHALLENGING?

Actually our inspiration comes from all around the world, our designs aren't rooted in the countryside. The move to the Barn was purely practical, we needed more space to manufacture and couldn't afford that in London. It does provide logistical problems such as internet, and I spend a great deal of time in the research



PETER THWAITESRAPTURE & WRIGHT

rooms of the V & A museum finding out about new inspiration and ideas. We also had to have a London showroom, otherwise designers and press would never find us.

IS IT IMPORTANT FOR YOU TO USE BRITISH STOCK?

Very. We were told when we started 10 years ago that we were mad to use British manufacturing. How ideas have changed since then.Unfortunately because everyone offshored in a rush to increase profit the skills declined. Now people are starting to rethink, they are surprised that there aren't enough British manufacturers. We knew that quality and reliability of stock was important and we couldn't control that if it was being manufactured the other side of the world.

Mistakes happen but at least I can go and see the weaver and sort it out. It also allows us to work with the weaver on new ideas. For example, engineering different ways of weaving that allows us to use the cloth in a much purer state rather than smothering it in horrid chemical softeners as most manufacturers do, to get the correct feel.

When we first started we were influenced by surfing and this led to influences from around the world (not hibiscus flowers or Hula dancers!), most of our designs are named after surf breaks. There are african tribal influences, also Japanese woodblock prints and kimonos along with a smattering of Scando. I keep files and sketchbooks of a myriad of ideas and scraps and cuttings but the designs and collections are often sparked by something completely unconnected, even a word or a sentence. Our design Junkanoo for example, came from an article I was reading about the John Canoe festival in the Carribean that involves dancing and dressing up in feathered costumes. The Junkanoo design is actually an abstraction of thousands of dancing figures.


HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE RAPTURE AND WRIGHTS, STYLE?

It is constantly evolving. It is as much about an attitude to design and the bespoke way that we can alter our designs. People are beginning to want something more personal. It gets used a lot by those who want something more sophisticated than "country style", yet not as glam as shiny uber urban. The hand printing gives a crisper subtlety than machine printing.


CLICK TO VIEW VIDEO


RAPTURE & WRIGHTFABRIC AGNES

HAVE YOU A FAVOURITE PRINT / OR WHAT IS CATCHING YOUR EYE AT THE MOMENT?

It depends on my mood. When I see a long length just printed on the table, it reminds me why I love textiles. At the moment I am working on some new designs with a slightly Japanese influence. I have been researching a lot about kimonos. I love the way that they were designed specifically for the wearer and so the layout would be completely a symmetric. This suits the way that we are thinking about the various ways of arranging pattern on the

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King of Cottonhave an eyefor design:

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fabric, so that it can be altered for each client. It is a technique that can only be done if you print to order and that's what makes us different.

WHAT DOES THE FUTURE HOLD FOR THE COMPANY?

We've been going ten years. To celebrate this we are branching out into a range of limited edition art prints and accessories produced in the studio. I am also keen to continue experimenting with our aluminium and copper papers.

There is so much that we can do in our printshop that the larger manufacturers can't achieve.

For futher information and to view the differrent ranges visit www.raptureandwright.co.uk

Supplier Contact -

Shauna StewartAgent for DesignersStudio 028 79631999Mobile [email protected]


BLOGGER: MY FAVOURITE ROOM

E L I Z A B E T H F R O M M O D E R N 24 S E V E N

1DESCRIBE WHY THIS IS YOUR

FAVOURITE ROOM?

This room is full of my favourite mementos - and it's cozy!

WHAT 5 WORDS BEST DESCRIBE THE INSPIRATION BEHIND THE ROOM DESIGN?

Modern, minimal, organic, timeless and chic.

IF I HAD AN UNLIMITED BUDGET I WOULD CHANGE?

The existing carpet - but I don't own; I am a renter!

WHAT IS THE ONE PIECE OF ADVICE YOU WOULD GIVE WHEN IT COMES TO DECORATING A ROOM?

Stay true to the style of the home; don't try to make a cottage into a castle!

I AM ALWAYS WATCHING TV IN THIS ROOM.

2

4

3


5

ARTIST FANNY NUSHKA MOREAUX


IRISH ARTIST SEAN COTTER INTERPRETS THE WORLD AROUND US IN BOTH OIL & CHARCOAL, PRODUCING WORKS WITH A VISIBLE ENERGY.

LOVE ART

Nushka was born in 1983 in Lille, France. She currently lives and paints in Paris and Southern France, whilst also spending winters in Sydney, Australia.

Nushka background is not directly linked to art, in fact she studied political science in Science Po and Management in HEC Paris.

Representation of the body is recurrent in her work. Focusing predominantly on the female body she explores this subject in all its forms: faces, busts, and fragments of the body…

FANNY NUSHKA MOREAUX


IRISH ARTIST SEAN COTTER INTERPRETS THE WORLD AROUND US IN BOTH OIL & CHARCOAL, PRODUCING WORKS WITH A VISIBLE ENERGY.


CLICK TOWATCH VIDEO

"The narrative is not essential for me. I enclose the body of my subjects in abstract structures, diagonals, verticals. I use perspective lines as if they were the backbone of my new models." commented Nushka

By playing on contrasts: sensitive, sensual and timeless topics, her vivid, dynamic and contemporary brushstrokes, create works that are both captivating and thought-provoking.


To view more works by Nushka visitwww.nushka.fr or buy now at Saatchi Online.

Lytton & Lily offer a range of vintage styled and traditionally inspired home and lifestyle products.

www.lyttonandlily.co.uk Tel: +44(0) 1598 710488

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We specialise in artwork without limits - be it an individual canvas in any style, any size or

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IPHONE CASE£10

GLASSES£5.99 EACH

GLASS SMALL PENDANT£136

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RUG£298

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BAKEWELL TART

CHEFSHAUN HANNA

RESTAURANTLINEN HILL

TASTE NOTES SPRING


Rub the margarine and cookeen into the flour using the tips of your fingers until combined - it doesn't have to be too fine. Add just enough water to bind it together, but do not overwork it as this will make the pastry tough.

Cream margarine and sugar with a hand mixer until pale and fluffy, add the eggs and mix well. Add flour, cake crumbs and almond essence and combine until mixed thoroughly.

Roll out the pastry and line 2 x 20cm round sandwich cake tins.

Spread the pastry liberally with the raspberry jam.

METHOD

Spread the topping mix over the jam and sprinkle with flaked almonds .

Bake for 30 minutes at 180˚C.

Allow to cool and sprinkle with caster sugar.

Serve with custard.

FOR THE PASTRY -

200G SELF RAISING FLOUR

120G HARD MARGARINE (STORK)

40G COOKEEN

A LITTLE COLD WATER

FOR THE TOPPING -

110G SOFT MARGARINE

110G CASTER SUGAR

110G CAKE CRUMBS

2 EGGS

50G SELF RAISING FLOUR

25G FLAKED ALMONDS TO

SPRINKLE ON TOP

RASPBERRY JAM

INGREDIENTS


4 WHOLE MACKEREL – FILLETED

AND PIN BONES REMOVED, ASK

YOUR FISH MONGER TO DO THIS

500G COMBER (OR BABY)

POTATOES

HEAD SAVOY CABBAGE – FINELY

SHREDDED

100G BUTTER

FOR THE CHUTNEY -

200G RHUBARB – PEELED AND

SMALL DICE

1 RED ONION – FINE DICE

50ML RED WINE

50ML RED WINE VINEGAR

125G BROWN SUGAR

INGREDIENTS

PAN FRIED MACKEREL, COMBER POTATOES, SAVOY CABBAGE, RHUBARB CHUTNEY - SERVES 4


METHOD

Make the chutney first, place all ingredients in a small sauce pan and simmer for approx 30 mins, stirring occasionally, cook until all liquid is evaporated and the chutney has a jam texture, allow to cool.

Bring potatoes to the boil and simmer for 10 mins until barely cooked, refresh under cold water then slice into nice rings. When needed heat a little oil in a non stick pan and place the potatoes in a clockwise fashion around the pan and season well with salt & pepper. Allow the potatoes to get a nice golden colour before turning, then allow 2 more minutes before adding 25g of butter to the pan. Reduce heat so not to burn, remove potatoes from pan and drain on kitchen paper, keep warm till needed.

Place Savoy cabbage in saucepan with approx 1 cm of boiling water, salt, pepper and 50g butter. Cover with a lid and simmer gently 6-7 mins, because we only used a small amount of water the cabbage will steam more than boil, therefore keeping its colour, texture and flavour.

To cook the fish, heat a little oil in a non stick pan, pat the fish dry with kitchen paper and place the fish skin side down one at a time - pressing firmly for 30 seconds so the fish wont curl up, then season with salt and pepper. Mackerel is a small fish which will cook very quickly, allow 2-3mins before turning the fish over, then add 25g of butter per 2 fillets and remove pan from the heat, the residual heat from the pan will continue to cook the fish. Finish by draining on kitchen paper before serving. PHOTOGRAPHY BY

KHARA PRINGLE


Opened in September 2013, the National Grande Cafe is one of Belfast’s newest eating establishments. It is part of the group behind the popular Merchant Hotel, the Beannchor Group, and is set in the former historic Bank of Ireland building on the High Street in the centre of Belfast.

The National caters for everyone’s preferences, with its early morning openings offering an extensive breakfast/

T H E N A T I O N A L G R A N D E C A F EWe were struck by the interior of the National from the moment we walked in. It has a contemporary, industrial, ‘new york loft style’ appearance. It boasts an impressive triple height glass ceiling and an exposed concrete floor and brickwork walls. The overall feel is quite dramatic and completely different from any other Belfast restaurant I have visited. The furniture is somewhat minimalistic. There are two long bench tables in

brunch menu menu (including a take away service which is great for those on their way to work) and trades late into the evening, allowing customers to enjoy Belfast’s largest beer garden.

I visited it with my husband on a Sunday morning in January to avail of their brunch menu after hearing good reports from several friends and reading positive reviews in the local press.

NORTHERN IRISH JEWELLERY DESIGNER RUTH INVITES US INTO HER HOME AND STUDIO IN FRANCE


in the centre of the room and a raised bench seating area along the front window. The rest of the seating consists of individual tables. There is a selection of newspapers available for customers to enjoy, as well as free wi-fi, both of which we availed of during our visit and agreed were definite ‘plus points’.

Whilst we browsed the brunch menu we ordered fresh fruit juices. I enjoyed an apple juice

and my husband had an orange juice, both of which were freshly squeezed and very refreshing. Our waiter brought us glasses of ice cold water with lemon whilst we waited for our juices to arrive.

To begin with my husband and I shared a bowl of freshly cut fruit salad which was served with a separate bowl of natural yoghurt and honey. The fruit salad consisted of kiwi, banana, pineapple and papaya. It was very refreshing and the perfect portion size, and the ideal way to begin a leisurely Sunday morning brunch.

The brunch menu (served until 11.30am) offers all the classics such as eggs benedict and florentine, omelettes and a full cooked breakfast. My husband ordered the cooked breakfast with poached eggs. In addition to the eggs, it consisted of white pudding, a large portobello mushroom, a herb-crusted tomato, as well as bacon and sausage. Each element was well cooked and non-greasy and it was quickly devoured. I opted for a slightly smaller dish of bacon, avocado and melted cheddar on malt bread which was scrumptious and fulfilling.



REVIEWED BYDIANE ROWAN

We managed to somehow find room to sample the tempting baked goods which are on display on the counter. We chose both a croissant and a pain au chocolat which were melt-in-your-mouth and very satisfying. All the baked goods on offer are made next door at the newly opened Patisserie Mimi, the first fully fledged artisan bakery and patisserie to open in Northern Ireland in 90

FURTHER INFO / BOOK A TABLEWWW.FACEBOOK.COM/NATIONALBELFAST

Overall the National has a very relaxed atmosphere with friendly staff who were smartly dressed and eager to answer any questions about the menu and the restaurant itself. It is a welcome addition to the Belfast culinary scene and brings a hint of continental Europe to the city. It is the perfect way to spend a Sunday morning and I look forward to returning to sample the lunch and evening menus.

years. It provides all the baked goods for both The National and the Merchant Hotel, including breads, pastries and a wide selections of macaroons.

The National also offers an extensive drinks menu including several speciality coffees and teas. I enjoyed a pot of freshly brewed loose leaf tea during my visit.


LOCATION33 ROLAND GARDENS, LONDON

An elegant, eclectic and ethnic picture!

B LAK ES LONDON


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China, Indonesia, Thailand, Cambodia and on to the Pyramids, back through Italy ending up in the heart of London. An elegant, eclectic, ethnic picture reflected in the abundance and luxury of accessories, furniture and artefacts found all over the world by Anouska Hempel over the many years of her far flung travels. It evokes past and current intrigues and dark mysteries.

The ‘Opium Den’ that is The Chinese Room, sits next to the critically acclaimed restaurant adorned in luxurious soft furnishings and a myriad of slipper orchids where candles and books are in profusion, stacked high on the squat tables waiting for guests to leaf through their exotic pages. Chinese ancestors smile knowingly down from the walls, black lacquer trays and colourful canapés gives the perfect background for

Blakes was created in 1978 by the world renowned designer Anouska Hempel and is known to be the world's first luxury boutique hotel. Based in South Kensington, it is famous for its design, service and privacy. Recognized for the dark colour of the facade, it occupies a group of Victorian Houses, the main ones being the Blakes and Benzies.

Blakes is a seductive design journey through India,


the gentle and elegant service that glides unobtrusively from room to room giving the most discreet attention one could ever wish for. Yet at the same time the place is busy, bustling, bohemian and beautiful. The room itself is the epitome of decadence and comfort dedicated to the likes of Chanel and Dietrich, and is the place to be before or after enjoying the delights of an evening in London. Marlene herself is rumoured to appear under certain lights and influences leaning seductively on the piano.

Blakes rooms are dramatic interpretations of deep, rich tones and subtle contrasts and the compositions are startling, luxurious and operatic. What might have easily slipped into being ‘over the top’ is somehow neither too saccharine nor too precious. Rather, these interiors are fascinating exercises in design imagination, choreographed by the masterly eye of Anouska Hempel herself.

The bar is also hugely popular with London’s fashionable ‘it’ crowd who regularly pop in for a sharpener! The restaurant walls are exotically layered with fans, made from the feathers of rare birds from exotic climes such as Brazil and the Ecuadorian rainforests. Tables are adorned with the finest appointments however nothing


"Blakes is a seductive design journey through India, China, Indonesia, Thailand, Cambodia and on to the Pyramids, back through Italy ending up in the heart of London."


FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR TO BOOK A ROOM VISITWWW.BLAKESHOTELS.COM


nonsense and happiness around the clock Blakes is a romantic whirlwind from the minute you step through the door. So full of fantasy and so full of fun you are guaranteed to have a great time!

Around each corner there is a surprise and the chance to discover more of the mystery and magic that has been created here. If the term ‘Design Hotel’ means attention to detail and the entire aesthetic experience then Blakes London veritably

deserves that title. Hempel’s motto: Design, Refine, Repeat, on an individual level.

Blakes Hotel London endeavours to work in close association with Anouska Hempel Design in delivering a world class experience both in Architecture and Design creativity.

can overshadow the cuisine which like the décor draws its inspiration from all corners of the globe. As you gallop up the stairs three at a time you may find yourself in the La Carmona suite, with Japanese Shuijo Horses corralled over your head and at the foot of your bed. Ginger Louis Vuitton trunks sit around retired for the moment from globetrotting.

With a top class concierge and room service running day and night, your every last wish is their command. With

restaurants

Palaces

CUISINESspaS

CAFEs-Bars-clubs

HôTELs

collectivités

Join us on

Become hosted buyer and take part of the Club Export & meet the leadingcompanies exhibiting at Equip’Hotel 2014!

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A R U S T I C , I R I S H S U M M E R

MARK & LAURA"A RUSTIC, EFFORTLESS WEDDING"

SET THE TONE FOR THIS SPECTACULAR DAY


MARK & LAURA"A RUSTIC, EFFORTLESS WEDDING"

SET THE TONE FOR THIS SPECTACULAR DAY


Laura talks us through the proposal and their special day.

"Mark proposed while we where on holiday in Tenerife. One evening he took me out for dinner and afterwards asked would I like to walk along the promenade for a while, and watch the waves (and look for late night surfers... as on a previous visit we had seen some). We stopped to look for the surfers (his idea) and when

I turned around to face Mark and set off walking again, he got down on one knee, and ask me to marry him!

We set the date for Friday 19th July, with the Service being held at Saul Church of Ireland Downpatrick, followed by reception in Ballydugan Mill Downpatrick. As the Mill is very rustic and effortless, we wanted to keep everything else to this style.

The Perfect Cake in Lisburn,created for us, an elegant, vintage inspired cake, with pearls and detailing which echoed the key features of my wedding dress. This cake had three different flavours; Madei-ra, coffee and chocolate orange. For all the flowers, we had a mix of pink roses and pink and white gerbera, which matched perfectly with the bridesmaids.


how much fun we had with our special Photographer Sarah Fyffe, who even stepped barefoot into the lake to get the perfect shot!

In the evening we had an amazing Irish band (with bag-pipes) called stonewall, and obviously our first dance song "Today" by Joshua Radin was special to us."


We have many wonderful memories from the day. Our wedding was on the hottest day of the year, and so the fabulous weather is definitely a prominent memory. Aside from that it was the ceremony itself, seeing each other in the church (especially how emotional Mark was, which made it all the more special). Finally we both will never forget how fabulous all the staff at Ballydugan were, and

PHOTOGRAPHY BYSARAH FYFFE

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O U T J U N E No. 9ISSUE

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ROCO Spring Issue 8

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