Page 332 – Ideal Magazine

THE IDEAL GUIDE TO GOING VEGAN

Editorial Team

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February 9, 2018

If you’ve looked at the internet or had the news on recently, you’ll be well aware that veganism is on the rise, with the number of vegans living in Britain tripling in the past decade alone. We’re a nation obsessed, both with the concept and the idea that it’s on the rise. There are currently around half a million vegans in the U.K, and this rising number can be observed in the establishment of numerous vegan oriented small eateries and food stores, as well as huge chains’ efforts to cater to the needs and desires of this ever-growing group.

Some of our favourite supermarket brands, such as Ben and Jerry’s and Cornetto, are taking note of this increased demand too, with both brands now offering vegan-friendly ice-creams. With this increase in the availability of vegan products, now could be the perfect time to switch up your lifestyle and try veganism out yourself. As veganism is a complete lifestyle choice and can have a profound impact on not only your own life but others’ lives too, it can’t really be summarised in a sentence or even a paragraph or two. So, stick with us, and we’ll get comprehensive. Here is our IDEAL guide to going vegan.

SO, WHAT’S IT ALL ABOUT?

So, let’s try to summarise this alternative lifestyle choice. In short, veganism is a way of living that ultimately intends to exclude the use and consumption of any products that contain animals, animal matter, or is tested on animals.

WHY DO SO MANY PEOPLE CHOOSE TO GO VEGAN?

Now, everyone has their own individual reason for going vegan. But there do tend to be common determining factors. These are: for the animals, for the environment, and for their individual health.

For the Animals

The majority of vegans are doing it for the animals, a choice made in order to exclude all forms of animal exploitation and cruelty to animals for the sake of our wants. We’re all familiar with the horrors of factory farming and animal slaughter. We’ve seen the videos and watched the films. But animal cruelty in the food industry and goes even further than this.

Many individuals who do use animal products will argue that they only consume animal products from ‘friendly’ free range farms. Now, the general premise is that animals aren’t here for our personal use and benefit. We can’t really argue with that. They are sentient beings and should be left to live their lives as they please in the wild. An animal may well have led a satisfactory life on a farm with plenty of room to roam, food to eat, and shelter to rest in, but the ultimate act of killing it for a meal that we do not need its flesh to make complete is the part that vegans can not find justifiable. If you take a look at animal’s natural lifespan in comparison to the age that an animal is killed, it’s shocking to learn that most animals are still in their youth when taken.

Financially, this decision makes sense even for the more ethical farmers. For the most profit you kill an animal the moment it reaches its optimum size and weight: otherwise, you’ll be digging into your profits by continuing to feed and shelter the animal when you aren’t gaining anything more from it financially.

It is also important to note that “free-range” when it comes to the farming industry is a very loose legal term. Free range eggs can, in fact, come from hens that are stored in their thousands in a barn and have a tiny outdoor pen just a metre or so wide that barely any can actually make their way out to the space outside. There are also further problems in the farming process: male chicks laid by hens that have been specifically bred to lay eggs cannot lay eggs but are not selectively bred to grow large enough to meet the needs of the meat market. They are thus not of any profitable use and are killed en mass through suffocation, drowning, electrocution or being placed through a machine similar to a wood chipper shortly after hatching.

Contrary to the commonly held belief (originally spread by the dairy industry), dairy cows do not produce milk constantly throughout their entire lives. They only produce milk for their young. This means that they have to be artificially inseminated, and go through pregnancy and birth for their bodies to start producing milk. Their calves are taken from them and sent for veal farming. Then the milk that was intended for the calf that has now been separated from them is milked from them, sterilized, and bottled for human consumption.

For the Environment

The production of meat and dairy has a profoundly detrimental effect on the environment and is speeding up climate change dramatically. The mass farming of cows has resulted in an increase in the amount of cow waste throughout the planet. The millions of animals crammed into factory farming units worldwide create an astounding volume of methane from their gases and faeces. Ruminant animals such as cows, goats, and sheep produce the gas while digesting their food and it’s constantly emitted from the cesspools produced by the dung of these animals and pigs. To put it simply, animal agriculture is the biggest cause of methane emissions in the world and many take a stand against it for the sake of the planet.

Another factor that needs to be brought into account when regarding the environment and livestock farming is the sheer amount of land and water that is used to grow crops that are then used to feed the animals intended for our consumption. This contributes greatly to deforestation, habitat loss, and species extinction, and is seen as ridiculous when we could simply consume the original crops ourselves. Also to be considered are the emissions produced in the transport of livestock to slaughterhouses, their corpses to butchers, and the packaged meat from butchers to our forks.

For their Health

Countless studies have been conducted regarding the health consequences of eating meat, and conclusions are clear; it’s not good for us. Red meat, in particular, is high in saturated fats and is linked to the development of serious heart conditions, so by cutting this out, you should have a lower risk of developing heart disease and type two diabetes. Remember that going vegan alone will not make you healthy in and of itself. Just like any other lifestyle, you need to ensure that you maintain a balanced diet and plenty of exercise.

BUT WHAT ABOUT PROTEIN?

This is the line that will make the majority of vegans roll their eyes straight away. “But what about protein?” is perhaps the question that non-meat-eaters are asked most regularly. You really needn’t worry about protein – or rather, a lack of it – when it comes to going vegan. There are plenty of ingredients which contain it besides meat: leafy greens such as kale, grains such as quinoa, nuts such as almonds and cashews, and soy products such as tempeh are just a few examples. Other nutrients that you may have gained from meat in the past can also be found in supplements, such as vegan dha.

CAN I DO THINGS GRADUALLY?

Now, diving headfirst into a lifestyle that eliminates meat, dairy and eggs can be daunting. A whole host of things that you used to consume will become off limits.. Remember that you don’t need to cut absolutely everything out at once. Consider cutting things out in stages. First meat, then milk, then yoghurt, then eggs, for example. This will give you more time to get used to working without animal ingredients, and any progress is positive.

Whether for the animals, for the environment, or for your individual health, there’s never been an easier, more understanding time to go vegan. If this sounds like the ideal time for you, then good luck. We salute you!

4 TIPS FOR THE IDEAL NIGHT’S SLEEP

Editorial Team

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February 9, 2018

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A good night’s sleep can have a huge impact on our day-to-day lives, influencing everything from our mood to our focus and performance at work. It’s even thought that those of us who get the right amount of sleep will live longer than those who sleep too little or too much, according to a 2002 study.

Given the clear and undeniable health benefits of sleeping well, it’s clear that we should all be aiming for the magic eight hours sleep a night. But with caffeine, computers, smartphones and stress all conspiring against us and doing their best to keep us awake, this is often easier said than done.

To help you get your sleep schedule back on track and get the rest you need to feel energised during the day, here are 4 tips for the IDEAL night’s sleep.

DE-SCREEN BEFORE BED

In the modern world of non-stop emails and social media, we tend to be inseparable from our smartphones. A moment away from it is one imbued with a sense of panic and weakness. But the blue light that LED screens give out can confuse our body clocks, making our brains believe it’s still daylight and dampening our natural appetite for sleep.

To help stop your smartphone from disrupting your sleep, it’s best to try and leave it outside your bedroom, or hidden in a drawer in your bedside table. Studies have shown that even having a phone in your line of sight causes distraction, so get that thing hidden. If you prefer to use your phone for reading before bed, then try installing a filter to counteract the effects of the light. Apps like Night Shift can improve your sleep cycle by filtering blue light from your screen, meaning you can continue to use your phone without the sleep-affecting negative effects of the LED screen.

CHECK YOUR MATTRESS AND BEDDING IS DOING THE RIGHT JOB

Your mattress and bedding can make or break your night’s sleep, so you need to make sure that yours are perfectly comfortable. The right duvet should keep you cosy without making you wake up in a sweat, while the perfect pillow will keep your neck comfortably aligned with your spine; not too high, not too low. If you frequently wake with neck pain, then it’s a sign that your pillow isn’t giving you the support you need.

It’s also worth considering the age of your mattress, as this could have a big impact on how effectively it supports your body during sleep. While some manufacturers recommend changing your mattress every eight years, exactly how often you need to change yours will depend on factors like your weight and height, and whether your needs have changed as you’ve grown older.

QUIET TROUBLING THOUGHTS AND STRESS

If you often find that stressing about your to-do list keeps you awake at night, then don’t make one. Seriously though, those who lay awake worrying often find that some basic mindfulness exercises help them to drift off faster. Meditation before bed is a great way to clear your mind and stop fixating of the issues of the day and tomorrow, will also help your body and mind get ready for bed, helping you to sleep more soundly.

Deep breathing exercises (also called ‘pranayama’ by yogis) are especially effective, because they calm the mind, slow your heartrate, and increase your oxygen intake, all of which help to prepare the body for sleep. So, switch off the TV, dim the lights, and try ten minutes of mindful deep breathing instead. These simple pranayama exercises from DOYOUYOGA are simple enough for beginners, and are brilliantly effective for relieving stress before bedtime.

KEEP A SLEEP DIARY

A sleep diary can help you to identify which environmental and dietary factors cause you to sleep poorly (and also, well) so you can eliminate harmful behaviours from your lifestyle. Before bed, make a quick note of what you ate and drank during the day, as well as any exercise you’ve taken. It might also help to record anything you found particularly stressful during the day, and what relaxed you, too.

Then, in the morning, write a quick summary of how well you slept, rating your sleep out of ten and noting how many times you woke during the night. Over time, you should notice patterns forming which will help you to identify what’s disrupting your sleep. So, if you notice that you sleep poorly after certain food or drinks, you’ll know to avoid them in future.

A restful night’s sleep doesn’t happen by accident: it’s all down to what you do during the day, and how you prepare for bed in the evening. If your sleep schedule is a mess and you’re feeling permanently tired, then try incorporating these tips into your bedtime routine — you’ll soon notice a real difference.

6 IDEAL WAYS TO TRANSFORM YOUR BEDROOM FOR VALENTINE’S DAY

Editorial Team

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February 7, 2018

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6 IDEAL WAYS TO TRANSFORM YOUR BEDROOM FOR VALENTINE’S DAY

There’s no doubt that the bedroom is the most intimate room in the house and where we are at our most vulnerable. It’s where we dress and undress, abandon ourselves to sleep every night – and, of course, it’s usually where we make love, and spend our most intimate moments with our partner.

We-Vibe want to encourage couples, and those on the hunt for Mr or Mrs Right, to create a more romantic intimate space during the month of love. Together with We-Vibe, Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen offers his top tips to create the perfect sensual space and transform your bedchamber. So, here are 6 IDEAL ways to transform your bedroom for Valentine’s Day.

PLAY WITH TEXTURE

You know how it is when you feel turned on, all your nerve endings are tingling and jangling and textures become magnified in the heat of the moment. So soft velvet cushions, silky fur throws, shiny, slippery leather furniture all make for an increased sense of sensuality.

SET THE MOOD

Candles are a romantic symbol, obviously, but in the wrong hands candles can make your room look like a child’s birthday party, or worse – an altar. My tip, then, is to make groupings of candles, either in candlesticks, or pillar candles directly on surfaces, so that you get ravishing pools of amber light, rather than an odd flickering flame here and there.

FIFTY SHADES OF VIBRANCY

Colour plays a big role in how we feel about where we are. Forget Fifty Shades of Grey, it’s actually reds, purples and oranges that set our hearts pumping, and really create exactly the right, rich kind of mood. Rich, warm, dark-toned colours have the effect of making rooms look smaller, which psychologically makes us feel safer; and when we’re safe and not distracted, we’re more likely to feel relaxed, sexier and want to push our own emotional boundaries.

LIGHTING

Back in the day, a warm-hued silk scarf placed over a lampshade was a universally recognised symbol of sexual anticipation. My feeling is: if ain’t broke, don’t fix it. Making the light levels in your room more smoochy, more sultry and more sexy is a great way of establishing the mood, and YES, a jewel coloured chiffon over a lampshade (make sure it’s never directly on a bulb) will make a space where the hoochie-coochie can flourish!

BREAK THE ROUTINE

The bedroom is often where we are our most true and authentic selves; where we remove the masks and artifice we use every day to get through our lives. But even in the bedroom, where we are free to be at our most fundamental and honest, things can get routine and boring. How are we supposed to feel inspired in our love-making when the surroundings never change?

Why not introduce something new to spice up your love making routine. Whether that be opening the conversation to introducing sex toys in to the bedroom, trying new lingerie, or experimenting between the sheets, Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to make some changes that will make the bedroom a more exciting venue for love and romance and your partner will surely appreciate the effort you’ve gone to.

SIMPLE TOUCHES = BIG DIFFERENCE

You don’t need to spend a lot of money. Think about investing in some crisp new bed-linen, some pretty cushions, or a cuddly throw in warm colours. Making a little effort with our physical surroundings matters, because we humans are emotive creatures, and we respond to our environment. When we’re in a place that stimulates our senses, we can’t help but respond in a positive way—and when we know that our loved one has gone to so much trouble, we can’t fail to be touched.

5 IDEAL SECRETS OF BECOMING A MILLIONAIRE

Editorial Team

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February 7, 2018

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5 IDEAL SECRETS OF BECOMING A MILLIONAIRE

Lifestyles of the rich and the famous. Always complaining, or living life mindfully and conscientiously? Well, it depends on who you ask. Have you ever wondered about the secretive habits and tips which millionaires cite as the key to their success? When we think about the super rich, we imagine champagne breakfasts, expensive car collections, wardrobes with all the latest designer clothes and year-round private jet trips to exotic destinations. But it’s not all fantasy and frivolity. It’s often more about thrift and humility.

So, if you’re looking for a different perspective on the money-smart principles of some of the world’s richest, and how to best spend your lottery winnings more sensibly if you found yourself hitting that big win, then read on. Here are 5 IDEAL secrets of becoming a millionaire.

TRY TO LIVE WITHIN YOUR MEANS

Just because millionaires ought to be living stereotypically in high-status neighbourhoods and driving fancy cars, it doesn’t mean they necessarily prefer to. American business magnate, Warren Buffet, with an estimated net worth of $62 billion (approximately £44.6 billion), has been living in the same home for more than 50 years, which he bought for what, today, is equivalent to about £22,600. Meanwhile, Facebook’s founder, Mark Zuckerberg, drives an unpretentious, Volkswagen GTI, roughly valued at £21,500, and dresses modestly in grey t shirts daily.

THEIR CHILDREN AREN’T AUTOMATICALLY GIVEN THE WORLD

A great deal of respected millionaires did not build their riches with family money, instead grafting and ‘coming up’ the hard way, and often state that they don’t plan on affording their children luxury and spoiling them. Instead of giving their kids everything their hearts desire and leaving them massive inheritances, millionaires often claim, at least publicly, that they aim to teach their children the value of money, so one day they’ll be able to succeed on their own.

RETIREMENT IS A DIRTY WORD

Many people vow that if they won the lottery, they would never work another day in their life. We have to admit we’re in that bracket. Self-made millionaires, however, love to say how much they love their work. To them, it’s not a job, it’s a passion. As Warren Buffet puts it: “Money is a by-product of something I like to do very much.” If you haven’t found your life’s calling yet, don’t worry. The average millionaire doesn’t find his/her passion until the age of 45, and averages state that joining the millionaires club happens only at the age of 54.

‘WEALTH’ IS NOT PURELY DEFINED BY MONEY

Of course being a millionaire nominally refers to the digits in your bank account, but being ‘rich’ and having ‘wealth’ aren’t necessarily the same notion to millionaires. Many have realised, through decades of struggle, toil and hard work, that having a big bank balance doesn’t mean anything if you don’t have health, or loved ones to enjoy it with. Building meaningful relationships, seeking adventure and taking care of your body should go hand-in-hand with working hard and chasing your dreams and ambitions to live a truly fulfilled life.

NOT ALWAYS TOP OF THE CLASS

Another surprising commonality among millionaires is that they didn’t all graduate at the top of their classes, or have advanced degrees. Some millionaires, like Henry Ford and John D. Rockefeller, didn’t even finish high school. Indeed, the most important thing to remember is that success doesn’t have anything to do with your level of education or performance in school (although education, of course, is still extremely important). With enough passion and perseverance, anything is possible.

4 IDEAL STAYING FIT STRATEGIES FOR THOSE WITH BUSY LIFESTYLES

Editorial Team

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February 6, 2018

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4 IDEAL STAYING FIT STRATEGIES FOR THOSE WITH BUSY LIFESTYLES

Modern life calls on us to be in demand, in contact and on the go at all times. While many people thrive in this hectic environment, others strive to keep up, and some simply struggle to keep alive. Maybe the last one is a bit drastic, but the point remains pertinent; remaining healthy and fit while trying to stay afloat in your career and active in your social life can be tough. So, we’re here to help. Here are 4 IDEAL staying fit strategies for those with busy lifestyles.

DO MORE ON FOOT

When you take stock of how you move from A to B, especially in the city, you’ll realise how often you drive or take public transport somewhere which is easily walkable. Consider walking to a client meeting that’s down the street, taking the stairs instead of the lift, getting off the tube a stop early and walking at lunchtime instead of sitting at your desk. It’s really beneficial, healthwise, to take in an adequate amount of steps each day to burn enough calories to keep the weight off, and such an approach saves money on an expensive gym membership, too. It’s as simple as being aware of your current habits and slipping in more steps whenever – and wherever – possible.

MEET A GOAL BEFORE WORK

One way to keep you on top of getting your daily exercise is to come up with a routine. Make working out the first task you tackle in the morning, and you’ll feel great about yourself for the rest of the day. You can try different things like early morning gardening. It will help you relax and you can do some exercising while using the leaf blower or cutting the grass. So many things that can be done around the house. It won’t be hanging over your head as a to-do, and you’ll find you have more natural energy throughout your working week. Exercise won’t get in the way of meetings or plans you schedule after business hours, and it’ll give you a reason not to stay out too late each night. Perfect, then.

CLEANSE AND DE CLUTTER

Cleansing of the body and soul, reducing both toxins and toxic distractions, will get you to your fighting weight and fighting mentality. A health cleanse using shakes, supplements and proper guidance may seem a commitment, but the results are impressive. Use a program like www.nutritionalcleanse.co.uk to guide you through the process properly, safely and helping you receive the full benefits. Cleanse your cupboards of junk food too, and your work space of clutter, to improve focus and concentration.

WEEKEND MEAL PREP

Though you may want to dedicate your weekend to brunches, lunches and generally wringing every last drop of fun out of things, take advantage of the free time by going to local markets, shopping locally and healthily, and prepping your lunches and dinners for the following week. This will make it easy for you to grab a nutritious lunch and snacks on your way out the door and you won’t have much work to do when you get home each night either. You could also purchase some snacks to go with your workouts from Muscle Rage. All it takes is a little pre-planning, and you’ll be on your way to eating healthier and consuming fewer unhealthy calories.

5 IDEAL TIPS FOR FITTING A NEW CARPET

Editorial Team

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February 6, 2018

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A carpet can be the difference between homeliness and inhospitable, between warm welcome or cold shoulder. The feeling under foot, the texture on your toes, the lift it brings to matters cosy – a carpet is a key component in making your house a home. After such a ringing endorsement, we’re assuming you’ve rushed out (or shopped online) and bought your favourite carpet by the time you’ve got to the end of this sentence. So, time to get it installed and get comfy. But how do you actually fit a carpet?

It takes a whole lot of expertise, experience and preparation. While we can try to DIY it ourselves, it’s a momentous task that requires specific steps and skill sets. A word of caution, the best fitting is often courtesy of a professional third party. Most carpet fitting costs are quite reasonable and will save you the hassle of navigating unheard of parts and processes. If you are intent in going it alone though, then here are 5 IDEAL tips for fitting a new carpet.

TAKE MEASUREMENTS & CLEAN THE FLOOR

First things first, you have to measure the room carefully and draw a room plan with the help of the graph paper. Make sure that you purchase more carpet (around 10-15 percent should be enough) than the measurements, keeping room for miscalculations and human error. The floor panels might be dusty so you have to clean the floor panels properly before starting the work as dust can hamper the new carpet’s settling in.

INSTALL CARPET GRIPPER

Next up, you have to fit carpet grippers to your existing floor. Carpet grippers are usually used to reduce the chance of slipping and movement and help you to put your carpet in place. These are very lean and long in shape with the sharp pins in one side of it. Carpet grippers should be placed on the border of the wall excluding the doorsteps. However, installation of carpet gripper can be risky to you as the nails are very sharp as well as the incorrect installation of carpet gripper hampers the carpet fitting.

INSTALL SOME UNDERLAY

The next step is you have to choose right underlay for your carpet. If you want the carpet longevity then you have to install the right underlay for it. It will be better to use lining paper before applying the underlay as it makes the underlay non-sticky as well as preventing the carpet from accumulating dust and dirt on the floor. Lt Flooring, who are carpet fitters in Colchester, recommend going for thicker and denser underlay in the busiest parts of the house, especially parts with lots of traffic or underneath a lot of heavy furniture

CUT YOUR CARPET IN SIZE

The next cog in the wheel is cutting the carpet to the right size, according to the measurement previously taken. The help of carpet tucker will make the task more manageable. It’s recommended that you have to leave extra carpet as it stretches with continuous use, as well as any errors in the initial calculation. Once it’s cut and put in place, ensure that the carpet is fully attached and stretched against the wall.

HIRE A CARPET FITTER

The processes of fitting a carpets are not as easy as the youtube videos and wikihow slideshows might imply. In many cases, it can become a tedious and error-prone task. Just some of the hurdles and pitfalls lying in wait are possible errors in the calculation, getting your grippers wrong or lining up the underlay improperly.

In the face of such risks, it’s advisable to have your fitting handled by the experts, such as a third party. Seek a carpet fitting cost calculation online to compare best prices, and you’ll be in carpet-comfort heaven in no time.

5 Ideal UK Taxi Travel Tips Revealed

Editorial Team

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February 2, 2018

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The New Year is here and with it, the inevitable hike in train fares and predicted soaring of car fuel prices set to materialise. Combined with the setting in of January’s gloomy weather and the continuing national obsession with all things Uber, this could all mean more taxi journeys in the coming year. Travelling by taxi brings with it a number of considerations, conundrums and questions of etiquette and safety, which we’re all too happy to address. So, here are 5 IDEAL taxi travel tips.

TO TIP OR NOT TO TIP?

That age old question, and one which gives us the fear, quite frankly; to tip your taxi driver, or not?

Tipping rules vary by country, region and even scenario. However as a general rule, in the UK it’s common practice to round up the fare and to tell the driver to ‘keep the change’. If the trip has come to £9, then simply handing over a tenner is fair for all.

However, if you’ve had a long journey or they’ve helped you with your luggage, or if the driver has been particularly charming and courteous, a 10 – 15% tip is a nice gesture.

CHECK YOUR TAXI IS OFFICIAL

Safety is of paramount concern when taking a taxi, and being vigilant and exercising caution is a good starting point. Always call for a taxi instead of hailing one down, or use an official taxi rank. That way, you can be sure they’re registered and legit. Look for a meter, a radio and a visible ID badge.

All genuine licensed taxis in nearly all countries are required to display their ID badge. Beware of ‘taxi touts’ that operate around Britain, particularly late at night. These are unregistered, untraceable drivers offering cheap fares in busy areas. If you don’t see a meter, badge or radio – don’t get into the taxi, it’s as simple as that.

NO FLAT RATES

If a taxi driver is trying to negotiate a flat rate, then alarm bells should ring. Flat rates and rip off fares go together like tea and jam, so insist that the the driver uses the meter so you know you’re getting a fair price for your taxi fare.

If the driver says the meter is broken, get out and get another one. It’s sensible to have a rough idea of fare estimates in all cases; there are plenty of apps and websites which can help with this.

KNOW YOUR DESTINATION

You’re in a different place and have no idea how to get where you want to go – probably one of the reasons you’re using a taxi in the first place.

Assuming every taxi driver is unscrupulous is a terrible way to look at the world, but it’s best to be aware of what’s going on, and know where you’re going and approximately how long it will take to get there.

And if you can get a handle on the route, either in your head or on your phone, then that’s an added bonus, if only to lend a hand if your driver gets lost.

REPORT THE TAXI DRIVER

If you’re unhappy with the driving and behaviour of the driver or believe a vehicle to be unlicensed, then report it immediately – you may help protect future passengers. This includes if they use their mobile phone.

You wouldn’t do it yourself or tolerate friends or family being on their phone while driving, so why do the rules seem to change with your taxi driver? All too often, it seems, we get comfy in our taxi, neglect to put on our seat belt and ignore our driver’s indiscretions willfully.

Research by auto retailer Peter Vardy has revealed that 74% of Brits would allow their taxi driver to drive around illegally, admitting they wouldn’t voice an opinion if they saw them using their phone when completing a journey. Be one of the 26% and tell your driver to get both hands on the wheel. If the issue persists, report them to the taxi operator or the local council where the offence happened.

5 IDEAL DÉCOR HACKS THAT MAKE A HOUSE A HOME

Editorial Team

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February 1, 2018

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5 IDEAL DÉCOR HACKS THAT MAKE A HOUSE A HOME

A rough approximation of a house is four walls, a roof and a door. But a home is so much more than the sum of its physical parts — it’s a living space where you feel sheltered and sustained, somewhere you miss when you’re away and that takes you in a warm embrace when you return. There really is no place like it. Of course, family are the crucial ingredient for homemaking alchemy, but interior design also plays a crucial role. With that in mind, here are 5 IDEAL décor hacks that make turn the humble house into a handsome home.

Ambient lighting

Lighting creates atmosphere and has a powerful impact on home ambience. If you live in a climate affected by low-winter light-levels, consider pre-programmed lighting that automatically increases brightness when the winter nights draw in. Automated light systems can alleviate the symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder and ensure your home looks warm and welcoming to guests.

What’s more, brighter lights might be suitable for a study or kitchen where you want to feel awake and alert, but slightly dimmer lights are more soothing for lounges and living rooms. All in all, ambient artificial light is one easy fix for making a house a home.

Warm welcome

First impressions last. And for householders, the primacy effect is of particular importance when welcoming first time visitors. A bright yellow front door sets the right tone for an entertaining evening ahead and designer door mats with humorous family mottos will make guests feel at home before they even step inside.

An outdoor light is another must-have décor item — a retro style lantern assures guests that your home is a beacon of bonhomie. Your front entrance is the first sight of home for your family too — it should incorporate a brilliant blend of attractive, safe and secure elements.

The power of aroma

A few scented candles can bring so much to a home, with aromatics pleasing the nose as soon as you walk through the door. But smell isn’t the only positive they bring. The warm, flickering glow of a candle also creates visual intrigue – romantic and cosy all at once.

Transforming a house into a home takes time — but these give home décor hacks provide a shortcut to stylish success.

Blissful bedrooms

Your bed is the best place to rest and recuperate after a busy day, so it should be a sanctuary. Some of life’s most special moments happen here, so it needs to be a focal point.

Calming shades of green, grey, blue and purple can help you to switch off before you snooze in the master bedroom and a few carefully chosen pieces of artwork can also calm you down and soothe a stressed soul. Also, with the right accessories and lots of soft furnishings, a white bedroom can become a tranquil place for you to relax and sleep in, but remember to pay attention to little details to avoid it becoming sterile room.

Also important to remember; your kids’ bedrooms will most likely double as their private living spaces too — so allowing them the flexibility to use bolder colours lets them add vital personalised touches to their private space.

Air quality

The air inside your house can contain harmful critters like dust mites, as well as chemicals from cleaning products. So, making sure it’s as clean as possible makes your home a much more pleasant place for family members and visitors who may suffer from allergies. There’s nothing worse than a sneezing fit to interrupt flowing conversation. Air purifying plants are a great and natural way to clean your home’s air supply. A carbon monoxide alarm is also a wise investment for peace of mind and an air purifier keeps the atmosphere pristine. Most importantly of all; good ventilation; thorough dusting with natural products; and a smattering of plants, can all combine to provide a homely breath of fresh air.

7 UNUSUAL LOCATIONS IN BRITAIN IDEAL FOR YOUR INSTAGRAM

Editorial Team

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February 1, 2018

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7 UNUSUAL LOCATIONS IN BRITAIN IDEAL FOR YOUR INSTAGRAM

Life used to be simple. Be interesting, be unique, be individual, and people will be drawn to you. Now, we have multiple personas to cultivate across multiple platforms; neglect your twitter feed and you’ll signal a lack of virtue; fail to post on Facebook and signal that you’re, well, dead. But there is one platform which all others bow down to. One which can be used to convince the world that you live the fullest, craziest existence, all from the comfort of your sofa. In your jim jams. Yes, we’re talking about Instagram.

Making sure that your Instagram game is up to scratch can be difficult. Friends will be posting snaps of far flung locations and far out activities, and keeping up can be tough. The good news is, there are some places much closer to home which will look just as amazing on your feed. So, we’ve teamed up Cottages in Northumberland, purveyors of cottages in Beadnell, to offer 7 unusual locations in Britain IDEAL for you Instagram.

ALNWICK TREEHOUSE

If you’re looking for an extraordinary treehouse high up in the branches – and let’s face it, aren’t we all? – head to Alnwick and you won’t be disappointed. The Treehouse in Alnwick Garden is one of the largest wooden treehouses in the world; made from Canadian cedar, Scandinavian redwood, and UK pine. That’s the most multicultural, treebased domestic space we’ve ever had the pleasure of seeing.

Make sure you head into the café; only accessible by walking across the rope bridges. These places make for good Insta-pics if you’re a foodie and love to show off unique dishes to your followers.

Alnwick Treehouse | © Christine Westerback /Wikicommons

KETLEY CRAG ROCK

If you’re looking to add some landscape shots to your profile, Northumberland should be your first stop. Enjoy a walk to Ketley Crag Rock, home to mysterious cup and ring carvings that have recently been named as Ancient Monuments by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport. Research has said that these markings were made between 3800 BC and 1500 BC. That’s a looooong time ago, before Instagram even existed. Fancy that? Historians are, however, still unsure of the meaning behind them.

THE PINEAPPLE

If you’re looking for a unique, one-of-a-kind flourish on a historic building, look no further than this tropical fruit rendered in stone. Built in 1761 by the Earl of Dunmore (a village in Falkirk, Scotland), The Pineapple is an eccentric summerhouse surrounded by a walled garden.

But why a pineapple? During the 1700s, the Earl of Dunmore was serving as governor in the state of Virginia, where sailors would leave pineapples on gateposts to announce their safe return from sea. After returning home, the joker Earl Dunmore decided to bring this tropical custom to Scotland in a more permanent fashion. We admire his commitment to the joke; it’s massive!

The Pineapple | © Giannandrea /Wikicommons

THE TINY POLICE STATION

Sometimes the madcap momentum of London can be a little overwhelming. This one is easy to miss when being moved by the crowd – but next time you find yourself in Trafalgar Square, head to the south-east corner to find this hidden treasure. This tiny police station has been around since 1926 and was built from a hollowed-out lamppost to help policemen keep an eye on protests, once upon a time a favourite pastime in Trafalgar Square.

With a direct line to Scotland Yard, this police station can surprisingly hold two prisoners at one time. Although today it’s used as a broom cupboard for the Westminster Council, Britain’s smallest police station is the ideal size and location for a selfie.

ANGEL OF THE NORTH

This one is taller than four double-decker buses and has wings the size of a jumbo jet; the Angel is the most dominant, iconic landmark that the North of England has to offer. It attracts over 150,000 visitors each year and is considered the biggest angel sculpture in the world, so why it may not exactly be unique to your feed, it’s a stunning sculpture nonetheless.

THE HEADINGTON SHARK

If your Instagram theme is for those with artistic minds, then the shark in a roof in Oxford is one snap you definitely need to capture. What makes it even more curious and crazy is its residential credentials. It’s not like it’s part of a quirky bar or restaurant, it’s simply protruding out of someone’s home in Oxford. It’s made from painted fibreglass and has become one of the town’s most famous residents since its installation in 1986. Despite legal battles to get the shark removed on health and safety grounds, the sculpture lives on and now, people from all over the UK stop by to get a selfie with the shark.

Headington Shark| © Henry Flower/Wikicommons

WALE’S SMALLEST HOUSE

This spot has made an appearance in the Guinness Book of Records and been declared the smallest house in Wales. Amazingly, 19th century couples lived here — however uncomfortably — and it was last occupied in 1900. If you’re looking for a picture that will trend then look no further, as this home in Conwy will be sure to bring in those likes.

RESTAURANT REVIEW: BOTTOMLESS BRUNCH AT THE POTTING SHED – THE IDEAL PLACE FOR AN EARTHY BRUNCH

Travel

Joseph Gann

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February 1, 2018

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RESTAURANT REVIEW: BOTTOMLESS BRUNCH AT THE POTTING SHED – THE IDEAL PLACE FOR AN EARTHY BRUNCH

The bottomless brunch field in London has been worked and reaped so extensively, one wonders if there’s any space left on the plot for a budding new upstart. In a terrain teeming with imitators, places need to differentiate themselves to stand a chance of seeing the sun. The Potting Shed seems to have taken the extended metaphor very literally, digging its roots down a floor below London’s ground level, and lining every available wall with pots, plants and whispers of fresh produce. It’s a gamble which pays off, in spades.

IDEA

A decor and menu working in synergy, promoting notions of green, health and lightness, is the schtick the Potting Shed has settled on. The vision is tunneled, but that’s the charm – from the name to the ubiquitous plant pots to the fresh, seasonal menu, everything is as immersive as covering yourself in earth and waiting to get watered. If the water was prosecco, that is.

LOCATION

The Potting Shed is nestled under (and part of) the Dorset Square Hotel, a short walk from the Baker Street tube station. Alternatively, Marylebone overground station is equally close.

ATMOSPHERE

The mood was sophisticated and gentle, though a little subdued, owing to our time of fairly late brunching. Towards the end of our meal, the place started to fill up with lunch guests and the noise rose accordingly.

Furnishings are resolutely earthy hues – browns and greens aplenty – and art takes the form of garden sculpture. Service is attentive, professional and prompt, with wait staff razor eyed for when the drinks are getting low. With complimentary fresh bread, constant topping up of glasses and a wait staff eager to please, there is a real sense of hospitality and generosity here that some other brunch places (with such emphasis on turning tables) could learn from. Brunch should be a leisurely affair, and it certainly is here.

FOOD

Brunch menus in the capital are a difficult balancing act. There is a need to stand out from the very crowded market of smashed avacado and poached eggs, but stray too far from the all-conquering formula and to put it bluntly, you’ll be empty. Brunch demands a certain comfort in the familiar – people tend to be a little jaded by Sunday morning – and to hit them with too much choice is to invite bemusement. The Potting Shed menu thoughtfully pitches itself seemingly with all this in mind.

There are perennial brunch favourites like eggs benedict and pancakes with maple syrup and bacon. Alongside these are healthier options – berries and muesli are given an equal billing to our more indulgent friends. We choose to go for a couple of green dishes – peas and burrata is seasonal and fresh, with the creaminess of the milky delight bringing a sense richness and glutton to an otherwise light plate. Avocado, cucumber and feta on toast riffs gently on the ubiquitous brunchtime staple, and succeeds in being different enough to be noticed. We follow this with a rosti, salt beef and pickles, which feels naughty next to all the grassy notes of the previous dishes (and all the better for it). The ongoing theme of the mildest deviation from breakfast staples is complete with Merguez sausage, tart and fragrant, over home-made baked beans. It’s another sound dish, and a fulfilling end to things.

DRINK

Of course, there’s enough prosecco to take a bath in, and that’s wonderful but the abstinent and well-behaved are also catered for with fresh fruit juices and good tea and coffee.

MUST TRY

We particularly enjoyed the fresh green vegetables with burrata, which seemed to encompass the philosophy of the place most fittingly – fresh, clean, seasonal flavours with just a hint of indulgence.

WHY GO

For something just a little different, in a brunch field so crowded it’s tough to know where to start, for those craving something light but fulfilling, The Potting Shed ticks all the boxes. It’s a thumbs up from us.

Address: 39 Dorset Square, Marylebone, London NW1 6QN

Website: www.firmdalehotels.com

Disclosure: IDEAL magazine dines as a guest of the restaurant.

For more bottomless brunch recipes, check out bottomlessbrunch.com/restaurants/london/ for a guide to everything from prosecco in Covent Garden to all-you-can-eat avo and Aperol in Dalston.

6 IDEAL STAYCATIONS FOR FAMILIES WITH PRE-SCHOOL CHILDREN

Editorial Team

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February 1, 2018

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6 IDEAL STAYCATIONS FOR FAMILIES WITH PRE-SCHOOL CHILDREN

Staycations have become so commonplace in the country’s vernacular that the portmanteau needs no further defining. That said, it’s a strange, inverse world, that of the British holidaymaker. While most Londoners may have visited far flung corners of the globe with reckless abandon, you’ll find many who have never ventured beyond Oxford’s M40, who view Watford as a symbolic gateway to the North and who constantly harp on about a flight to Europe being cheaper than a train to Edinburgh.

It’s time to tap the great, unexplored resource of the Great British countryside, especially if you have kids, as it has so much to offer them. With that in mind, we’ve teamed up with Baby Friendly Boltholes who is the go-to site for stylish and child-friendly holidays, to present our 6 IDEAL staycations for families for pre-school children.

THE ISLE OF PURBECK, DORSET

The Isle of Purbeck, on England’s south coast, is full of fun activities for all the family. Studland bay offers beautiful, white-sanded beaches with water suitably shallow for the little ones to have a good toddle, giving parents peace of mind whilst they paddle. Swanage town has a lovely little beachfront where you’ll find crabbing and sandcastle building a plenty, with punters enjoying fish’n’chips on the beach, rain or shine, in true British style. Away from the sand and shore, Corfe Castle is a fascinating site for adults and children alike, with both historical intrigue and the opportunity for some fancy dress fuelled reenactments. It’s accessible via a working steam train, which the little ones love, and tickets for the aforementioned ride come with a visit to Corfe’s model village included. All in all, the options are endless for good family fun in this part of England.

THE LLYN PENINSULA, NORTH WALES

The Llyn Peninsula in Northern Wales has one of our favourite pubs in the world, Ty Coch Inn. But fear not, this one is for the kids too. The pub ‘garden’ is actually a small stretch of beach – you can sup your pint while you watch the children build sandcastles – could there be anything better? Port Madog railway is another kid crowd-pleaser and Snowdonia needn’t involve relentless climbing; family picnics at the foot of the mountain are a great way to luxuriate in the scenery without the heavy hiking.

THE NEW FOREST, HAMPSHIRE

The New Forest in Hampshire is a wonderful place for walks, wildlife watching and more. Moors valley, in the heart of the forest, is an adventure playground with a difference. It snakes and slaloms through the tall trees, seemingly adapting its shape to the nature around it. The structures are built from wood, camouflaging themselves against the dense forest, which adds a real sense of magic to the play. The area is full of wildlife too, with ponies and deer spotting a particular treat. For the adults, there’s some cracking country pubs, many serving grub elevated by seasonality and local ingredients to something much more than the usual staples.

LOCH LOMOND, SCOTLAND

Kids and castles; it’s a marriage made in heaven isn’t it? Balloch Castle country park is a brilliant day out for the babies, with plenty of room to run about and a castle maintained respectively by the National Trust. Loch Lomond also has an aquarium complete with ocean tunnel; a fascinating, immersive experience of sharks and turtles swimming overhead and all around.

SOUTH SANDS, DEVON

Two words which will have your kids sold on South Sands – ice cream. Salcombe has an ice cream factory, Salcombe Dairy Ice Cream Factory, which takes visitors and offers free samples. From there, it’s only a short walk to the picturesque North Sands Beach, with calm, shallow water perfect for paddling.

LONDON

Although the countryside is often the go-to for a staycation with pre-schoolers, the capital offers so much to do that it should never be overlooked. There are just too many options to list here, but there’s sure to be something to suit your toddler’s tastes. Attend events and places of interest during the week when it’s far less busy, making the most of the years before your little one is at school and you have all the freedom in the world.

RESTAURANT REVIEW – KODBYENS FISKEBAR, COPENHAGEN

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February 1, 2018

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RESTAURANT REVIEW – KODBYENS FISKEBAR, COPENHAGEN

The New-Nordic revolution is now anything but. A world order whose influence stretches far beyond its continent, you’ll recognise its sensibilities on every high street, in every restaurant, on every off-grey plate. Through all the mimicry – the motifs growing out of plates, the foraged everything, the austere aesthetic – a seasonal, hyperlocal seafood’s reverence remains the prevailing pillar of this food movement. In Copenhagen’s ultra-trendy Meatpacking district, you’ll find Kødbyens Fiskebar, serving some of the freshest, and finest, around.

IDEA

Opened in 2009, Kødbyens Fiskebar was intended as a dining experience not found elsewhere, in a city viewed by so many as a culinary mecca. The emphasis was to be on celebrating, putting on a pedestal even, the best seafood from local waters, to be enjoyed at the convenience and leisure of the customer. This mission statement, of unique proposition and an ever changing roll-call of different punters and personalities, has been met emphatically. Kødbyens Fiskebar is a must-go-to in a city spoilt for choice.