Top Autumn design trends revealed by Alexander James Interior Design

by Charlotte Ashton United Kingdom
  • Rich jewel tones are at the centre of autumn’s design inspiration
  • Keep nature in the home with large floral prints on walls and cushions
  • Add warmth with raw brass touches as the nights lengthen

While the rest of us are enjoying the summer holidays, the team at Alexander James Interior Design is busily working away on this autumn’s top interior design trends. Now, Creative Director Stacey Sibley has shared her expert insights into this autumn’s must-have colours, fabrics and florals.

“We’ve seen a real inclination for soft, muted tones over the spring and summer. All that’s going to change in the autumn, as bright jewel colours burst onto the interiors scene. Colours are all about the rich warmth of teals, burnt oranges, shaded spruce and autumn maple. These are bold tones for uplifting interiors – we’ll be brightening up the indoors as the outdoors dims in preparation for winter.”

Stacey Sibley, Creative Director, Alexander James Interior Design

Plush, patterned fabrics will complement the bold jewel colours of autumn. Sibley highlights the new Bonheur velvet from Zinc Textiles as an example. The plush velvet is interspersed with multi-tonal textural bouclé yarns to form a deconstructed hounds tooth design that is both elegant and warm.

Meanwhile, summer’s fascination with nature will continue, but with a shift into more rich, floral patterns.

“Florals this autumn will be larger than life – picture rich velvet cushions printed with large scale, expressive tulips, apple blossom and roses. The Designers Guild’s new cushions epitomise this trend. We’re also seeing floral prints in wallpapers and fabrics that look like old master still life paintings, allowing us to incorporate these into the home in exciting new ways – it’s a modern twist on classical prints.”

Stacey Sibley, Creative Director, Alexander James Interior Design

When it comes to larger items of furniture, colour comes to the fore once more. Julian Chichester’s beautifully sculpted, teal vellum Deneuve Cabinet is the ultimate example. Double curved ends provide elegance while the textured raw brass detail that follows the shape of the front of the cabinet pairs perfectly with autumn’s favoured tones.

For smaller accessories, it’s all about blending those jewel colours with interesting textures. Healthfield & Co’s emerald Amelia table lamp reflects the autumnal trend perfectly. A design collaboration with Zoffany, the hand-crafted lamp features stunning volcanic glass detailing, meaning that each piece is unique. Antique brass and a satin shade finishes the lamp beautifully.

“Finally this autumn, don’t forget the importance of art. If you’re nervous about how to introduce jewel tones, opt for something like Trowbridge Gallery’s Lovebird Feathers. It’s a stunning piece that shows the bright, delicate plumage of the world’s smallest parrot. The close-up of the rainbow spectrum of colours is truly beautiful and adds a wonderful sense of texture as well as colour.”

Stacey Sibley, Creative Director, Alexander James Interior Design

With the longest day already well behind us, it’s time to enjoy the rest of the summer while preparing for the autumn. Make sure you’re ready for the arrival of dark skies and darker evenings by giving your home the rich colour boost it deserves.

For more information, visit Alexander James Interior Design at www.aji.co.uk or call 020 7887 7604. 

Brand new luxury London homes with breathtaking views: Bellis Homes launch Four5Two

Brand new luxury London homes with breathtaking views: Bellis Homes launch Four5Two

by Charlotte Ashton United Kingdom

Hampstead is where some of London’s most famous names have chosen to settle; a haven for writers, composers, ballerinas and intellectuals, actors, artists and architects over the ages.

The location, just 4 miles northwest of Charing Cross, is known for having one of the largest urban parks in the world, Hampstead Heath, and being one of the highest points in London it boasts breathtaking views of the city.

Indeed, beautiful views are one of the most desired factors when it comes to purchasing a property for many buyers, however it is not something that’s easily found especially for those seeking the best of both worlds – idyllic countryside views within a reasonable distance of the ‘big smoke’. But luxury housebuilders – Bellis Homes has now made this reality possible.

The family-run housebuilder has just launched their brand new, high-specification development in the heart of Hampstead. With a contemporary design, the apartments of Four5Two are engineered for deluxe living in Hampstead.

The rear of the apartments feature balconies with incredible Hampstead Heath views, the perfect spot to sit back and relax.

“The premium location of Four5Two is ideal for those looking for the perfect blend of rural life with strong city links. The views over Hampstead Heath from the rear balconies are a big talking point when it comes to this development with floor to ceiling windows in the living areas to maximise light and the stunning vista.”

Henry Fordham, Director, Bellis Homes

As well as private underground parking for residents, Four5Two also boasts strong transport links being located just a 10-minute walk from Golders Green station and easily accessible from many major motorways including the A1, M1 and the M25.  The development is just 19 minutes to Kings Cross St Pancras and with several major airports all within easy reach it is undeniable that Four5Two is more than ideally situated for commuters.

Four5Two compromises of 13 apartments, with prices ranging from £1.1m – £2.2m. The living areas in Four5Two offer a large space for socialising and relaxing. The carefully designed floor plan brings in plenty of natural light enhanced with bespoke lighting for each apartment and LED lighting at plinth level through the hallway. The airy spacious area is heightened by the overall stylish and contemporary decor.

To purchase an apartment off plan or for all other enquiries please contact Bellis Homes or their sole agents Glentree 0208 731 9500.

Property investors pick up the pace: Surrenden Invest reports

Property investors pick up the pace: Surrenden Invest reports

by Charlotte Ashton United Kingdom
  • Investors now far more clued up on basic property investment principles
  • Enquiry to investment period reduced to just 5 days on average
  • Media coverage and sector maturation responsible

Specialist end-to-end property investment company Surrenden Invest has revealed a shift in the nature of its clients, which it believes represents the next phase of the property investment sector’s evolution.

“Clients used to start out by asking us basic questions about property investment. Now, however, investors are coming to us already clued up about the basics. There’s been a notable shift in terms of the average investor’s knowledge base – contemporary investors have done their homework and know what they want. They’ve already taken the time to learn the basics before they speak to an investment company.”

Jonathan Stephens, Managing Director, Surrenden Invest

This new trend means that investors are more focused on getting guidance on the opportunities available as soon as they engage with a property investment company. They know the kind of investment that they want and are ready to drill down into the detail of what the market currently has to meet their requirements.

In addition, they’re seeking information on how best to invest and which issues to watch out for with specific projects. They already know, for example, about the merits of investing in Birmingham and the value of a prime city centre location. Now, it’s more a case of advising whether the charms of the apartments at (for example) B5 Southside outweigh those of Moseley Gardens, or vice versa.

Such a shift in investor knowledge has inevitably impacted on the speed at which decisions and investments are made. Investors have picked up the pace, with Surrenden Invest reporting that the average investor now takes just five days to go from an initial enquiry to an investment. Previously, the process could take several weeks, and sometimes even longer.

“The change in investors’ behaviour and the speed at which they now want to invest means that property investment companies need to be at the top of their game in order to satisfy the needs of these seriously savvy investors. There’s little small talk any more – investors want to invest fast and expect the information that they demand to be provided instantly in order to facilitate that. It’s an invigorating time to be involved in property investment!”

Jonathan Stephens, Managing Director, Surrenden Invest

A number of factors are behind property investors’ evolving knowledge. The significant media interest in buy-to-let investment over the past few years has played a role, as has media coverage of ‘newer’ types of investment, such as hotel investment. A far broader swathe of information is available online. Property investment used to seem like something of a dark art to the uninitiated, but the proliferation of insightful, information-packed websites and blogs has enabled anyone with an interest to learn the ropes.

The result is that investors want to move faster. They are more decisive and less interested in debating whether or not they might want to invest. Instead, they just need guidance on where the best deals to suit their individual needs are to be found.

“It’s great to be part of the industry’s evolution and to work with investors who are so driven to make property investment work for them. The industry is maturing around us and property investment companies need to keep up with the new pace in order to meet modern client’s demands. Those that find themselves behind the curve have some serious catching up to do.”

Jonathan Stephens, Managing Director, Surrenden Invest

 For further details and property investment opportunities, visit www.surrendeninvest.com, email info@surrendeninvest.com or call 0203 3726 499. 

London’s buy-to-let pain has become Manchester’s gain says Jean Liggett

London’s buy-to-let pain has become Manchester’s gain says Jean Liggett

by Priscillia Mudiaki United Kingdom

It’s fair to say that uncertainty has been the order of the day in the UK’s buy-to-let property market at the hands of government for the past year.

2016’s shock Brexit decision followed by a hung parliament this year combined with stamp duty hikes, the removal of mortgage interest relief and imminent introduction of tougher lending criteria for portfolio landlords has created an aura of uncertainty and caution in the buy-to-let market.

The UK’s capital, the ever-shining star of London seems to also be fading with house prices down 0.6% and private rental prices behind the national 12-month growth rate according to the latest ONS data.

So, has the last 12 months permanently dampened the appeal of the UK buy-to-let market? Should buyers be investing their funds elsewhere? Critics are divided.

“The uncertainty that the UK buy-to-let market has experienced over the past year has undeniably impacted investor confidence but it seems to be primarily aimed at London. With interest rates remaining so low, investors still see the merit in purchasing bricks and mortar but those seeking maximum returns in 2017 are increasingly looking at other areas than the Capital. By keeping an eye on regeneration plans and new transport links, it is still possible to find great areas to invest in.”

Jean Liggett, CEO, Properties of the World

Indeed, despite splutters in the London buy-to-let market, buoyant activity is being witnessed in other parts of the UK. Greater Manchester has become a key destination for property investors and thanks to its strong demand from buyers and renters alike, the city continues to register a strong house price growth rate of 6.7%, according to Hometrack.

“As we have seen the capital’s market decline, other UK cities have stepped up and taken its place. London’s buy-to-let pain has become Manchester’s gain!”

Jean Liggett, CEO, Properties of the World

Due to its proximity to both MediaCityUK and Manchester city centre, Salford Quays in particular is leading the way when it comes to buy-to-let growth.

2017 marks 10 years since major transformation began in the area, kick started the BBC’s decision to move many of its jobs from London to Salford Quays. This £650m regeneration project has boosted the area’s credentials for buy-to-let investment and Manchester has ascended to one of the top 10 buy-to-let areas in the UK according to a recent report by LendInvest.

The latest HM Land Registry data paints a positive picture for Salford with a 5.9 % growth in house prices recorded between June 2016 and June 2017. Whilst savvy investors will be watching with glee as news of more A grade office space is being snapped up in Manchester (law firm Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer is taking space in Salford) indicating a thriving local economy and growing rental housing demand.

Jean Liggett, Founder and CEO of investment agency Properties of the World is convinced of the merits of Manchester with her latest buy-to-let offering to investors launching this week.

Manchester Waters in Salford Quays is comprised of five phases and a total of more than 500 apartments, ranging from studios to three beds. All properties will be furnished to the highest standard, and most will benefit from the spectacular view of the waterfront.

The location of this development is unparalleled, with two Metrolink stops located within a 5-minute walk, residents can reach Manchester’s city centre with ease. Additionally, with Manchester Waters being situated right in the heart of Salford Quays, home to MediaCityUK, it is perfectly placed to house local workers and students attending the nearby university campus. Apartments are available to purchase from just £109,995 for a spacious studio apartment and returns of 6%.

For more information, visit www.propertiesoftheworld.co.uk or call +44 (0)20 7624 5555. 

 

All eyes on Cumbria, as Lake District’s new UNESCO World Heritage status inspires rush of investment

All eyes on Cumbria, as Lake District’s new UNESCO World Heritage status inspires rush of investment

by Georgina United Kingdom World

· Properties near UNESCO sites enjoy 27% higher value than the average UK home (Zoopla) 

· UK staycations up 24% this summer (Sojern) 

· Hotels outside London projected to reach record occupancy levels in 2017 (PwC) 

· Spa hotels now account for 40% of £1.5 billion UK spa industry (Spa Creators) 

The Lake District in Cumbria has become the latest area of the UK to be awarded UNESCO World Heritage status. The honour is conferred on those sites that the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization deems to be important to humanity due to their cultural, historical and/or scientific significance.

The Lake District is one of the most beautiful UK regions, with stunning rolling mountains and the iconic lakes for which the area is named providing an outstanding natural environment. It has long been popular with walkers, hikers and those seeking peace, away from the trappings of modern life.

Now, Cumbria is also drawing in investors, from property buyers to those picking up hotel rooms.

“A UNESCO World Heritage award often brings with it an increase in property prices and interest from investors. Zoopla figures show that properties near UNESCO sites command a price premium averaging 27% when compared to the average UK home. As such, a lot of investors are appraising Cumbria right now.”

Ray Withers, CEO, Property Frontiers 

It’s not just buy-to-let property investments that investors are keen to examine in Cumbria. With an area of such incredible beauty, investments with lifestyle benefits are highly prized. The Eden Country Spa Hotel is a great example of this trend.

Well placed for access to Hadrian’s Wall and the Cumbrian countryside, the Eden Country Spa Hotel offers investors two weeks’ personal usage per year. The site is currently being developed into a micro-destination in its own right. As well as top-of-the-range spa facilities, the hotel will offer adventure trails, woodland walks and an equestrian centre, as well as a superb, five-star dining experience, magnificent orangery and laidback cocktail lounge.

“What we see at the Eden Country Spa Hotel is just what investors in areas like Cumbria are seeking – an attractive package of lifestyle benefits on top of solid numbers. In this case, that means returns of 10% NET per annum for up to 10 years, with a low entry point of £45,000. It’s the whole package.”

Ray Withers, CEO, Property Frontiers 

With the UK in the midst of a staycation boom (travel company Sojern has reported a 23.8% rise in those planning domestic breaks this summer), spa hotels are an attractive option for investors looking to capitalise on current trends. According to Spa Creators, UK consumers make 6 million visits to spas every year, while Diagonal Reports estimates that the UK spa market is now worth more than £1.5 billion.

Hotel spas account for 40% of that market and projections certainly look promising for 2017. PwC forecasts that hotel occupancy levels outside London will reach record highs, with growth in revenue per available room (RevPAR) of 2.3% during 2017.

“Hospitality is a key sector for growth, employment and overseas earnings in the UK. It is our 6th largest contributor to export earnings and 4th largest employer – accounting for 4.49 million people or 10% of the workforce and over 180,000 businesses.” 

Andrew Sentance, Senior Economic Advisor, PwC 

All of this is good news for hotels like Cumbria’s Eden Country Spa Hotel. With the UK’s hospitality and spa industries booming, and the Lake District’s new UNESCO World Heritage status attracting considerable attention from tourists and investors alike, the future is looking very rosy indeed.

For more information on investment opportunities around the world, contact Property Frontiers by visiting www.propertyfrontiers.com or calling +44 1865 202 700.

The step by step guide to Clearing – and to finding awesome student accommodation!

The step by step guide to Clearing – and to finding awesome student accommodation!

by Priscillia Mudiaki United Kingdom

If you think you might not have done as well in your A-Levels as you hoped, it’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with the Clearing process in advance of results day. Even if you think you aced your exams, it’s worth having an understanding of Clearing, just in case.

Clearing allows students who didn’t get the results they were hoping for to find a suitable university course. Read our step by step guide to Clearing to ensure you have the knowledge you need to find the course you want.

Clearing – the step by step guide

You can use Clearing to find courses with vacancies. Then it’s time to discuss the course directly with the college or university that provides it. If they’re happy to offer you a place, you can accept it online.

  1. Check your status in Track. If it says ‘Clearing has started’ or ‘You are in Clearing’ then you’re in Clearing.
  2. Use the UCAS search tool to look at courses that are available. Vacancies are updated regularly, so keep checking back if you’re looking for something specific. You could also consider studying a different subject.
  3. Speak to the universities and colleges that you are interested in. If you give them your Clearing number and Personal ID number, they will be able to see your Track application online.
  4. Gather informal offers over the phone and decide which one you want to accept.
  5. Add details in Track of the offer that you wish to accept, using the details that you were given on the phone. This counts as your acceptance of the offer, so be sure you are certain before entering the details.
  6. The college or university will then confirm the offer and you will receive a confirmation letter through Track.

And that’s it! Many students feel panicked by Clearing, but it’s actually a simple process, so just keep your cool and work through the process until you’ve found the perfect course.

 

Clearing – next steps

Once your course is confirmed, the next step is to find your student accommodation. Most universities require students to apply for their accommodation before A-Level results day, but that doesn’t mean that those who go through Clearing are forced to live in terrible properties. In fact, the rise of student accommodation developments like Ernest Place in Durham means that students going through Clearing have more choice than ever before.

Ernest Place is a collection of brand new studio apartments offering stylish and luxurious student living. The exclusive facilities include an on-site cinema, sauna and residents’ glass-walled sky lounge. There’s a study room for hitting the books, as well as a private desk area in very apartment. There’s also a gym for those times when you want to work your muscles instead of your mind. And all of that is backed up by superb service from an on-site management team who’ll do everything from organising social events to help you settle in to signing for your parcels and booking your taxis. From £125 per week.

Lucky residents at the brand new accommodation Eclipse in Cardiff will see their lives enhanced by an ultimate living experience. It offers unrivalled facilities, from its on-site private cinema for movies nights to an Alice in Wonderland themed nightclub to entertain friends. From £137 per week, students will also have access to table games, gym and on site dinner party room for community events.

Such high quality accommodation is available across the UK through Fusion Students’ sites and Collegiate’s. Headed north to Glasgow? Then check out Claremont House. Studying in Newcastle? Then Plummer House is the place to be. Thanks to new generation accommodation providers like Fusion Students and Collegiate, you can source an outstanding student apartment with a stylish lifestyle built in, even after going through Clearing. So be ready to book fast on 17 August – first your course and then your accommodation!

For more information on Fusion Students please visit www.fusionstudents.co.uk  or to book other accommodation across the UK, contact Collegiate on +44 1235 250 140 or visit www.collegiate-ac.com.

 

UK’s ageing population inspires boom in retirement homes with swimming pools and spas

UK’s ageing population inspires boom in retirement homes with swimming pools and spas

by Georgina United Kingdom

· 18% of UK population now aged 65 or older (ONS) 

· Regular exercise can reduce likelihood of Alzheimer’s by up to 50% (Alzheimer’s Research & Prevention Foundation) 

· Swimming is the ideal low-impact activity for retirees looking to keep in shape (Aqua Platinum) 

The benefits of exercise during retirement have been well documented. Keeping active as you age can help to stave off a wide range of illnesses, both physical and mental. The Alzheimer’s Research & Prevention Foundation, for example, states that regular physical exercise can reduce an individual’s chance of getting Alzheimer’s disease by as much as 50%.

Regular exercise also helps to prevent heart disease, maintain healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels and boost mood and energy levels. However, not all forms of exercise are suitable as you get older, with high-impact activities putting unnecessary amounts of strain on muscles and joints. That’s why so many retirees embrace swimming.

“Swimming is an excellent form of exercise for those who don’t want to put too much strain on their joints. The low-impact nature of the activity means that it’s suitable for those in their golden years and the multiple health benefits are well known.” 

Dominic Searle, Aqua Platinum 

Luxury swimming pool design and build company Aqua Platinum has recently been working to help retirees boost their exercise levels, with the installation of a high end swimming pool and wellness complex at Royal Arthur Park in Wiltshire.

In addition to the sizeable indoor swimming pool, featuring two infinity edges, Aqua Platinum designed and built an integral spa, standalone spa, sauna and steam room. The complex is for the exclusive use of residents of the 350-apartment Wadswick Green retirement village, which was designed with health and wellness at its very core.

“The transition from work to retirement is a huge change. With more time on their hands, people have the opportunity to look afresh at their commitment to their fitness levels. It’s never too late to start a new exercise regime and swimming is a wonderfully gentle way to build strength, stamina and muscle tone. We were delighted to be able to provide such superb facilities for residents of Wadswick Green retirement village, enabling them to maintain their physical and mental wellbeing as part of their daily lives.” 

Dominic Searle, Aqua Platinum 

Luxurious retirement villages have boomed in recent years, with developers aiming to satisfy the demands of baby-boomers looking to spend their golden years in style. According to Knight Frank, those aged over 60 in England have access to some £1,200bn in unmortgaged housing wealth. Retirement developments provide them with the means to part with some of that cash in exchange for a range of premium facilities honed specifically to suit the health and social requirements of older people.

The Overview of the UK population: July 2017 from the Office for National Statistics confirmed that the UK’s population is getting older. Some 18% of the population is now aged 65 and older, while 2.4% is aged 85 and above. There are now 285 people aged 65 or older for every 1,000 aged 16 to 64. With an ageing population, developments such as Wadswick Green are set to increase in number over the years ahead, along with demand for swimming pool and spa facilities that retirees can use to keep themselves in tiptop condition.

For more information, call 0203 362 0442 or visit www.aquaplatinumprojects.co.uk.

Doncaster delights investors with cultural appeal and solid property price rises

Doncaster delights investors with cultural appeal and solid property price rises

by Priscillia Mudiaki Uncategorized United Kingdom
  • Doncaster house prices up 15.98% over past 5 years (Zoopla)
  • New Northern Cultural Regeneration Fund to provide £15m for tech, creative and cultural sectors
  • Grade II listed Danum House redevelopment honouring Doncaster’s art deco heritage (Properties of the World)

The northern market town of Doncaster is delighting investors and art aficionados alike, thanks to its extensive cultural offering. Now, the town is also set to benefit from the government’s new £15 million Northern Cultural Regeneration Fund.

“Doncaster is a surprising location in many ways and the government’s commitment to investing in the North of England positions it well as an investment prospect. Right now, Doncaster is a key up and coming location for residential property investment and we’re seeing an unprecedented level of interest in what the town has to offer.”

Jean Liggett, CEO, Properties of the World

 

The £15 million Northern Cultural Regeneration Fund follows a series of government commitments to the North of England. The level of investment is such that Philip Hammond MP, Chancellor of the Exchequer, observed, “if the Northern Powerhouse were a country, it would be amongst the biggest economies in Europe.” The cultural fund will boost the extensive investment by focusing particularly on the region’s tech, creative and cultural industries.

“This £15 million fund is a fantastic chance for towns and cities to develop inspirational projects that could have a transformative local effect – particularly in communities that have seen less cultural or creative investment in the past…. We want as many people as possible to benefit from the Great Exhibition of the North, and this fund will boost the Northern Powerhouse and help build a lasting legacy across the whole region.”

Karen Bradley, Culture Secretary

Within Doncaster, one of the city’s landmark art deco buildings is leading the way when it comes to showcasing the region’s regeneration. The grade II listed former department store, set in the heart of the town, is the subject of a major redevelopment that will see it transformed into spacious, open plan apartments, complete with rooftop cinema and concierge service. The emphasis on keeping the original character of the building – known as Danum House – is turning this into one of Doncaster’s most exciting and unique residential developments.

As well as the town’s cultural attractions, investing in buy-to-let property in Donacaster makes financial sense too.

“Prices in Doncaster are extremely low at present. From as little as £83,000 here, you can buy a one-bedroom apartment of 465 sq. ft at Danum House. These are seriously spacious apartments that offer a high standard of living and their central location is perfect for attracting tenants looking for the best that the town has to offer.”

Jean Liggett, CEO, Properties of the World

 

Doncaster has enjoyed house price rises of 15.98% over the past five years, according to Zoopla. Property market experts such as those at Properties of the World are keeping a close eye on values, with prices tipped to be on the verge of rising at rates similar to those that we’ve seen in northern cities such as Manchester. With so much being invested in the local area, it’s only a matter of time!

For more information, visit www.propertiesoftheworld.co.uk or call +44 (0)20 7624 5555.

Londoner’s scream for ice-cream as new Marine Ices apartments launch in Camden

Londoner’s scream for ice-cream as new Marine Ices apartments launch in Camden

by Georgina United Kingdom World ,
  • 9% increase in Camden house prices forecast by 2021 (Barclays)
  • Living near a supermarket boosts a property’s value by an average of £21,512 (Lloyds Bank)
  • Marine Ices Apartments located in Camden’s iconic former ice-cream parlour, opposite the Roundhouse (Bellis Homes) 

Camden Town has always been considered an interesting hybrid area of London. Not only does it boast one of the best markets in the capital but it is home to a diverse community from affluent young professionals, students, artists and celebrities, dead and alive, from Charles Dickens to Gwyneth Paltrow.

Whilst some may be cautious about the prime central London market, the experts at Barclays wealth and investments paint a more positive outlook forecasting that the capital’s house prices are set to rise by an average of 11.88% by 2021, almost double the national average (6.1%).

Average house prices in Camden are forecast to rise by a whopping 33.9% by 2021, second only to Richmond-Upon-Thames, reports Barclays. Indeed, the latest Zoopla data reports a 43.07% growth in house prices in Camden over the past 5 years and 3.33% over the last 6 months alone.

Boasting a highly prized NW1 postcode, you might be surprised however to know that reasonably priced, well sized property gems can still be found.

Luxury homebuilder Bellis Homes is launching this summer’s hottest development in Camden Town – Marine Ices Apartments.

Conveniently located, on Haverstock Hill, opposite Chalk farm station and within sight of the hugely popular Roundhouse complete with rooftop beach in the summer months, Marine Ices Apartments enjoy a rich heritage.

The building was once home to an ice cream parlour, founded by gelato pioneer, Gaetano Mansi in 1931 who wanted to bring the exquisite taste of real Italian gelato to discerning Londoners. His reputation for the finest gelato spread and so did his parlours with the same ice creams now enjoyed in many places including his new parlour a few steps from the new Marine Ices Apartments.

“Camden is one of the most sought after places to live in London and with that in mind we set out to create a selection of vibrant new homes as vibrant and exciting as the area itself. We really loved the story behind the Marine Ices building and its connection to Camden as well as the location of the site, it’s perfectly situated between a number of landmarks, travel links and local amenities.”

Henry Fordham, Director, Bellis Homes

 

Only a short walk from the fashionable Camden Market and Camden Lock, Marine Ices Apartments are currently under construction and when completed in 2018 will offer 19 apartments ranging between 566 sqft and 1221 sqft with fabulous amenity spaces. The apartments vary from one to three bedrooms with vibrant finishes, CCTV, large balconies and composite oak paneled front doors with security features.

Residents of Marine Ices Apartments will also be able to enjoy the convenience of retail stores and / or supermarket on the ground floor – perfect for those everyday essentials as well a future capital growth.

Indeed, proximity to supermarkets can positively affect house prices; known as ‘The Waitrose Effect’, research by Lloyds Bank suggests that homes within a near reach of any local supermarket are worth on average £21,512 more than others in the same area.

“We know these apartments will be in great demand due to their prime location and high specification and we have already had interest in the units off-plan. London is and will remain one of the top global cities in which to live and we are proud to be able to deliver new homes of this standard to the capital.”

Henry Fordham, Director, Bellis Homes

 

Marine Ices Apartments are available from £650,00 to £1.5 million, for more information, contact Bellis Homes on 01279 424 733 or visit www.bellishomes.co.uk.

Swim training systems are latest fitness craze for residential swimming pool installations

Swim training systems are latest fitness craze for residential swimming pool installations

by Georgina United Kingdom

· Aqua Platinum reports significant rise in demand for counter current systems 

· Powerful swim training systems allow for enhanced health benefits, even in small pools 

· Celebrities and athletes inspiring many to embrace this form of exercise 

The residential swimming pool industry experiences trends in response to technological advances and celebrity endorsements, just like any other sector. Right now, home owners are seeking out powerful swim training systems in order to gain maximum exercise benefits from their home pool and spa complexes.

Luxury swimming pool design and build company Aqua Platinum has highlighted the huge growth in this sector.

“There’s been a huge increase in demand for counter current swimming technology in the past few months, as more and more people come to recognise the health benefits of these systems. Counter current systems are ideal for swimmers who want to build up their core strength and endurance.” 

Dominic Searle, Aqua Platinum 

Swimming training systems work by creating a powerful current within the pool. They can be installed in pools of almost any size and are ideal for small pools where swimming lengths isn’t realistic.

By swimming against the current, individuals can benefit from an enhanced workout that is incredibly low-impact on the joints. Counter current swimming also serves to speed up the metabolism and even elongate the muscles.

This last benefit was one that actress Natalie Portman was particularly looking to achieve when she swam a mile every day while preparing to film Black Swan. Many other celebrities swear by swimming when it comes to top ways to keep their A-list bodies in shape.

Julia Roberts opts for laps in her Malibu pool, while Nicole Kidman reports that swimming is her favourite exercise and fits in 30 minutes almost every day. Jennifer Aniston makes sure to swim three times each week, while Matthew McConaughey and David Duchovny are also big fans of keeping fit in the water.

“It’s not just celebrities who can achieving amazing muscle tone and overall fitness levels as a result of swimming. Counter current systems mean that anyone can instantly improve the health benefits of their swimming pool, turning what is already a great form of exercise into something even more effective and enjoyable.” 

Dominic Searle, Aqua Platinum

Most of those with high end pools tend to opt for swim training systems like the JetStream TriVa, which looks beautifully sleek and stylish. The system suits a wide range of swimming abilities and levels, from beginners right up to professional level training. The variable current speeds are also great for those looking to build strength while recovering from injury.

At Newlands Manor in Dorset, the counter current training system is suitable for athletic level swim training. It is complemented by a steam room, bespoke spa and wet bar to provide the perfect balance of health benefits and relaxation. The Aqua Platinum team reports that the company currently has several more projects under construction that include swim training systems, as the trend continues to gain momentum.

For more information, call 0203 362 0442 or visit www.aquaplatinumprojects.co.uk.