By Anya Cooklin-Lofting
As winter approaches and we begin to book in those much lusted-after ski holidays, why not start to consider how to turn your winter escape into an opportunity to properly switch off? The frenzy and excitement of the slopes are cornerstones in the very best ski holidays, but what about genuine rest and relaxation? Some frequent skiers believe it’s essential to transform their ski chalet into a haven of relaxation, keeping genuinely off-piste moments serene and tranquil. This month, I spoke to two experts in the field, interior designer Louise Bradley, and founder of How to Spa, Maud Ganry Boutaric, about how to practice chalet-style self care on your next ski break.
Louise Bradley, who works internationally with clients to design elegant, contemporary yet classical homes, believes in the significance of meticulous space planning to achieve a perfect balance. In her words, “every design decision should lead to a stunning vista.” In this way, you channel the beauty of the mountains into every room, yielding their calming and awe inspiring presence.
She also suggests reimagining traditional chalet elements, such as updating the classic log fire with a “floating” fireplace adorned with bronze details and an inset niche for logs. “Textures and colors play a crucial role,” Bradley notes, advocating for rich and warm layers of velvets and chenilles in earthy tones for added visual depth.
Entertainment spaces are equally crucial for Braldey’s clients, not just for gatherings but also for younger members of the family. In one alpine project, Bradley and her team created a multifunctional lower ground floor garage, doubling as a party space with a bar for clients who love entertaining on a grand scale.
Maud Ganry Boutaric, the mind behind How to Spa, is a pioneer of elevating relaxation within your ski chalet, achieving a spa-like quality from the comfort of your home and/or chalet with spa-inspired relaxation kits full of lotions and potions. “I believe that the best way to achieve a spa experience at home is to stimulate all of your senses,” says Ganry Boutaric, “from soothing sore muscles to tantalising the tastebuds.”
“Incorporating fragrances into your at-home spa routine is key,” Ganry Boutaric says. She recommends candles like the Mon Evasion candle by Nyssae, characterised by sweet and comforting fragrances including notes of Lily of the Valley, Orchid, Tonka, and Ylang Ylang. “It’s a vegetable wax in a glass container, and I believe that ethical products like this enhance the overall experience.”
When it comes to taste, for a holistic spa experience, Ganry Boutaric suggests flavors such as jasmine flowers, delicate rose petals, and a zest of bergamot bark. Vallée du Nil from Nunshen, a delicate green tea, is her top pick for its suppleness, aromatic qualities, and refreshing taste, creating what she calls, “beautiful moments of escape.”
Addressing the toll a ski holiday can take on your skin and muscles, Ganry Boutaric advocates for self-massages with arnica to ease joint pain after a day on the slopes. For winter-specific skincare, she recommends L’Huile d’Hiver from Oden, a face oil formulated to moisturise and protect against the harsh winter elements.
So, from creating the perfect environment in which to relax to upping the ante on your at-home treatments, why not take a leaf out of the very restful books of Bradley and Ganry Boutaric. In fact, both the designer and the wellness experts have beautiful books available to buy now. Bradley’s Interior tome is a study in elegant interiors by Bradley herself and writer Helen Chislett. Ganry Boutaric has published two volumes in the REAL series on relaxation and spirituality. You can read them online REAL N1 and REAL N2, or there is the option to order them as a gift for a friend.
Best New London Bars To Try
By Amira Hashish
Nothing beats a perfectly shaken cocktail at the end of a hard day. So pull up a seat at one of the many new openings across town to take a load of those feet and taste a delicious signature drink! Not sure where to start? Here are some of the best cocktail spots that have recently opened their doors…
AMANO Rooftop Bar
Perched on top of the AMANO Covent Garden hotel, this panoramic rooftop bar with an adjoining roof terrace is a secret new haunt for those seeking fabulous views in Theatreland. There is often a house DJ playing and the menu of wines, Champagnes, signature cocktails, and non-alcoholic drinks feels as glittering as its surroundings.
Tell me more: amanogroup.de
Amaro
Kensington is having something of a buzzy resurgence with the Big Mamma Group opening Jacuzzi on the high street and Amaro Bar finding a home just up the road. With an emphasis on quality drinks and warm hospitality, this spot takes its mixology seriously. The vibe is dark and moody with a healthy splash of sophistication.
Tell me more: amarobar.co.uk
Chet’s
With cocktail names including Return of the Mak and Pet Sounds you know you are in for a fun ride. On the beautifully designed ground floor of the Hoxton’s Shepherd’s Bush outpost, this bar is part of chilled out restaurant Chet’s which serves smoky, spicy plates that fuse LA and Thailand. Kris Yenbamroong, Founder of LA Thai hotspot NIGHT + MARKET, is behind the concept and he has done a sterling job of transporting his vision to London.
Tell me more: thehoxton.com
Equal Parts
Sager + Wilde have been nailing cosy cocktail bars for quite some time but their latest offering brings together cocktails, coffee, vinyl and art in (you guessed it) equal parts. The music is on point and the interior design will leave you feeling inspired.
Tell me more: equalpartslondon.com
Lucy Wong
Inspired by the love story ‘A World of Suzie Wong’ by Richard Mason and its 1950s Hong Kong setting, this late-night bar in Fitzrovia encompasses traditional Chinese elements and modern twists. Sink into velour armchairs and cosy chaise lounges under Chinese lantern light or seek out the hidden outdoor Courtyard.
Tell me more: lucywong.co.uk
Manzi’s
The latest installment from The Wolseley group is an unapologetically glamorous all-day seafood and fish restaurant nestled between Greek and Frith Streets. Set across two floors of Bateman’s Buildings, it nods to the original Leicester Square institution. A visit is not restricted to dinner though, the Mermaid clad bar makes for a fun pit stop.
Tell me more: manzis.co.uk
Naked & Famous
An intimate Seventies style hideaway underneath zēphyr restaurant on Portobello Road, Naked & Famous has an emphasis on Agave cocktails. There are only 35 spots and they fill up fast but this is a good place to know for a Notting Hill date night.
Tell me more: zephyr.london
The Nipperkin
Drinks inspired by British produce are at the heart of the menu at 20 Berkeley’s upscale speakeasy. From Plum & Peach to Fig & Butter, the cocktails could be mistaken for edible dishes and they are designed to be just as delectable.
Tell me more: 20berkeley.com
Stereo
Covent Garden’s coolest new nightlife offering comprises an eclectic music programme each night with a rotating series of resident DJs and curated one-off artist performances. The drinks menu champions London spirits and breweries. Think New York meets London meets Paris, courtesy of the Experimental Group.
Tell me more: stereocoventgarden.com
The Lowback
Steak connoisseurs Hawksmoor deem The Lowback their most ambitious bar yet. Named after a small vehicle that helped launch and guide small boats, The Lowback was literally built to push the boat out. With a nine-metre-long bar, dark green marble floor, polished timber ceiling and velvet booths, the water-level bar sits prettily underneath the Canary Wharf restaurant.
Tell me more: thehawksmoor.com
Sharing’s Caring: Christmas Gifts the Whole Family Will Enjoy
By Anya Cooklin-Lofting
Christmas is very much on the horizon, so let the festive cheer and joy-spreading commence. And of course, by festive cheer and joy-spreading, I mean more than just rosy cheeks, snowflake-flecked lapels and the golden glow of cosy, lamplit cottages. No, I’m talking about the delicious crackle of wrapping paper, the tug of Christmas ribbons out of their curling bows and the sheer thrill of the surprise, be it one you’ve bestowed on a loved one, or one to which you have been treated.
Now, as families embrace multigenerational living in unprecedented numbers, gifts for all the family to enjoy are becoming increasingly popular. And while it’s unlikely that family gifts will usurp individual presents completely, joint gifts might be more inventive, interesting options. Not only will you delight the whole family with and unexpected, thoughtful surprise, but you’ll bring everyone together. So, from cutting-edge technology to memorable live performances and delightful subscription boxes, here’s a comprehensive guide on how to make this Christmas a special, shared experience.
A Family That Plays Together Stays Together
One of the most universally popular family-first gifts are games consoles. From interactive sports games to full-blown VR headsets, family game nights won’t stop at a quick game of cards. Virtual Reality (VR) games consoles promise hours of entertainment for the whole family. Whether you’re exploring far-off galaxies or solving puzzles in mysterious worlds, VR games provide an immersive experience that transcends traditional gaming. John Lewis is currently selling a popular VR console, the Meta Quest 2, All-In-One Virtual Reality Headset and Controllers, for £299. It’s time to get active after that heavy Christmas dinner with a bowling, table tennis or even an Angry Birds simulation!
Tickets! Tickets!
Tickets to live performances of landmark musicals or plays can form the basis for a brilliant evening out with the whole family. Whether it’s a rollicking pantomime or a West End hit, the gift of a shared experience can be truly magical. Check local theatres or concert venues for upcoming performances that cater to all ages. You can also check out cinema listings for live streams of performances from around the world, or for concert recordings from some of the biggest names in pop music, like Taylor Swift or Beyonce. From the youngest members of the family to the grandparents, everyone can appreciate the magic of live entertainment. It’s not just a gift; it’s an opportunity to create lasting memories.
Subscription Boxes: The Gift That Keeps on Giving
Subscription boxes have become very popular gifts, offering a monthly dose of excitement delivered right to your doorstep. Consider gifting a subscription box tailored to the interests of the entire family. From gourmet snacks and board games to DIY crafting kits and book clubs, there’s a subscription box for every family. The anticipation of receiving a new box each month adds an element of surprise and ensures that the joy of your Christmas gift lasts well beyond the festive season.
So, this Christmas, go beyond the usual book exchange and choose presents that bring the family together for collective moments of love and laughter. And whatever you choose to gift, choose with love, and you won’t go far wrong.