In London, the weather is slowly but surely progressing from frigid to tolerable, and the city’s parks have been enlivened by technicolour carpets of daffodils and tulips. It’s out with bulky outerwear and knits, and in with lighter layers, billowing sundresses, and a sense of sartorial freedom. Dare we say, spring is finally here! And naturally, it’s time to embrace the glorious outdoors. This week, we’ve asked a handful of interior design experts to share their top tips for creating a seamless transition between your indoor and outdoor spaces. Here’s what they had to say…
Embrace a New Point of View
Kitchens tend to be the heart of a home. When the sun is shining, outdoor cooking and entertaining are a no-brainer. The great outdoors can be integrated into the overall aesthetic of your indoor kitchen by thoughtfully considering the layout. Tom Howley, Creative Design Director at the eponymous bespoke kitchen company says:
“If your kitchen is near your garden, or has a nice view, make sure the furniture layout makes the best of this by orienting towards the view. Your sink doesn’t always have to be positioned looking out to the garden, consider locating your dining area with the best view in the kitchen. Creating an indoor-outdoor living space will mean that dinner parties can extend outside into the garden, with all the essentials to hand in the kitchen. You can enhance the connection to your garden with the addition of bi-fold doors, which can fully retract and provide a seamless link to the outside.”
Create a Sense of ‘Connectedness’
“We see outdoor spaces as an extension of your indoor interior aesthetic. Opt for garden furniture and decor that fits in with the overall look and feel inside your home, for connectedness,” says David Harris, Design Director at textile and furniture design house, Andrew Martin.
Philippa Thorp, Founder and Director of Thorp, a luxury London-based architecture and design studio, echoes this, saying: “Indoor and outdoor spaces should balance each other perfectly. Our garden and landscaping projects are designed to elegantly complement the homes we make, reinforcing the overall connection to nature and creating a sense of organic harmony.” This can be achieved by upholstering both your indoor and outdoor furniture in the same hues or prints.
Harris adds, “we offer many options for dual use – from rugs and cushions to seating. Upholstered in removable, cleanable, and waterproof fabric, our outdoor pieces are perfect for high-traffic interiors, especially for families with pets or young children.”
Floral Freshen-up
When it comes to textiles, the appeal of botanical prints is enduring. Produced in the Lake District, Andrew Martin’s Pavilion and Folklore collections are inspired by Britain’s love of outside spaces and green-fingered nature. Dashing wildflower sprigs and undulating vines in lush tones capture the essence of a garden in full bloom. The collections’ plump feather-filled cushions, for instance, are perfect for uplifting neutral furniture, creating a nature-inspired scheme with minimal effort required.
You can continue this floral freshen-up with a dreamy bedscape, opting for organic linens splashed with saturated botanicals – because what’s dreamier than frolicking in a wildflower meadow? A restorative snooze on bedding covered in them. Look to bedlinen designer Sheridan for some splendid examples. We suggest the Lyric Quilt Cover Set which boasts springtime shades of periwinkle and coral.
Material Matters
Exposure to the elements calls for materials that strike a balance between durability and beauty. Mor Krisher, Head of Design at premium surface brand, Caesarstone, says: “The outdoor kitchen market is growing rapidly, and we have seen an increasing desire for year-round garden entertaining. Don’t make the mistake of choosing the wrong materials. Natural stone such as marble, is highly susceptible to staining, especially in a high-traffic, exposed area such as your outdoor kitchen. To avoid substantial staining, you would have to seal your marble surfaces at least annually.”
Non-porous, durable, scratch, stain, mould, and mildew resistant, and easy-to-clean, Caesarstone’s Porcelain range promises to live up to the demands of the outdoors without the need for any high maintenance. These surfaces have each been meticulously tested to withstand harsh sunlight and variable temperatures, ensuring they always remain highly UV and weather resistant, for years to come. They’re also perfect for indoor use, allowing you to seamlessly align all of your culinary spaces.
Let There Be Light
Lastly, a well-lit garden makes outdoor evening soirees an effortless prospect. Cue Phileas, Pooky Lighting’s first-ever rechargeable cordless lamp, designed in collaboration with award-winning British interior designer Matthew Williamson, and named after the iconic Mr P Fogg – the protagonist in Jules Verne’s novel, Around the World in Eighty Days – for its ability to travel anywhere, indoors or out.
Illuminating al fresco dinner parties with a full charge that lasts 10 hours, this antiqued brass table lamp has an array of new sorbet-hued empire shade options. An enchanting alternative to taper candles, Phileas is thoughtfully sized to ensure you can comfortably see over it whilst dining.
Curators of exceptional short stays, Domus Stay on unlocking London’s design-led properties and what makes a house a home.
Our homes are our castles, or so the saying goes. Places that provide sanctuary and escapism, for many people their property is also their primary financial asset – although we’d argue that the value of a home comes down to much more than its price per square foot.
At Domus Stay, we curate memorable short stay experiences by pairing dedicated guest services with design-led homes in London’s most desirable neighbourhoods. One-of-a-kind properties are our bread and butter. Chelsea townhouses, Notting Hill maisonettes and Mayfair mews homes reimagined by leading creatives, we seek out backdrops that spark inspiration, induce relaxation and elevate the everyday. Beyond striking interiors, our guests can expect to find conversation-starting antiques, libraries filled with first editions and chef-grade appliances.
Among our most unique spaces, there’s a Grade-II listed Mayfair apartment that has counted royals and the literati among its former residents, an expectation-defying Fulham lodge house that featured on Grand Designs, and an artist’s studio turned penthouse of impressive proportions in Notting Hill.
Like us, the owners of these extraordinary homes share the belief that considered design adds value – and not just in a financial sense. Beyond monetary gains, thoughtful interventions can enhance our wellbeing and the way we live. As a result, leading architects and interior design studios have had a hand in many of the homes in our portfolio, from Blyth-Collinson Interiors to Lonika Chande and Simon Gill Architects. Sometimes though, the visionaries in question are the homeowners themselves, who are arguably best placed to bring out the intrinsic worth of a space through the experience of living in it.
One of our homeowners told us that she wanted to share her place for short stays because she was a “custodian”, and that has always stuck with us. So much so that we carry forward this sentiment in all we do. We strive to look after our homes as if they were our own. As well as maintaining them to the highest standards, our diligent approach to inventory checks, guest vetting, security and housekeeping offers peace of mind for everyone. For every new property we handpick to join our collection, we also undertake a thorough preparation day to familiarise ourselves with each element in detail – so we understand the nuts, bolts and quirks of every space.
Ultimately, whatever gives a home its unique appeal – from celebrated mid-century modern furniture to an art collection amassed over a lifetime – owners can trust us to showcase it to the most suitable individuals. That’s because we connect likeminded people: those with properties that don’t just look good but feel great to live in. And discerning guests with an appreciation for considered design.
With a background rooted in luxury property and hospitality, personal service comes naturally to us. Whether a home is available for two weeks, two months or more, our experienced team takes the stress out of the short stay process, for homeowners, guests and bookers alike.
We might not have any castles in our portfolio (yet), but for everything else, get in touch.
As BBB’s Home and Garden theme for the month of March blossoms, it’s crucial to consider not just the aesthetics of your living space but also its security. At UMBRA HQ, we understand the importance of feeling safe and secure in your home, allowing you to fully enjoy the tranquillity of your sanctuary. Here are five top secure lifestyle tips for enhancing residential security, ensuring peace of mind for you and your loved ones – wherever you live.
First Line of Defence
Strengthen the security of your home by fortifying entry points such as doors and windows. Install sturdy locks, deadbolts, and strike plates, and consider upgrading to smart locks for added convenience and control. Window locks and security bars provide additional protection, preventing unauthorised access to your home. A concealed safe and a ‘fake safe’ are two items increasingly being requested by clients who want to ensure that their internal and external security is intact.
Community Safety
Our favourite tip for the cost conscious is the free to set up a humble Whatsapp Group! Foster a sense of community and mutual support by participating in or establishing a neighbourhood watch program. Collaborate with your neighbours to keep an eye out for suspicious activities and share information about security concerns. By working together, you can create a safer environment for everyone in your community – and in a worst case scenario be able to pool resources/camera footage to send to law enforcement to help wider public safety.
Green Guards
While lush greenery enhances the beauty of your garden, it’s essential to maintain landscaping in a way that doesn’t compromise visibility. Trim shrubs and bushes near windows and doors to eliminate potential hiding spots for intruders. Clear sightlines allow you to monitor your property effectively and discourage covert entry attempts. However, a secure perimeter can easily be hidden by a high dense hedge line – we love working with landscape architects to produce these ‘Green Guards’!
Smart Home Systems
Embrace the power of technology by installing smart home security systems. These systems offer a range of features, including motion detection, video surveillance, and remote monitoring via smartphone apps. With real-time alerts and the ability to control your home’s security from anywhere, smart systems provide an invaluable layer of protection and peace of mind.
Light Up Your Property
Illuminate the exterior of your home and garden to deter potential intruders. Motion-activated lights are particularly effective, as they surprise and discourage unwanted visitors. By keeping your property well-lit during the night, you not only enhance security but also create a welcoming ambiance for evening gatherings in your garden.
By implementing these top tips, you can create a home and garden where tranquillity thrives alongside safety. At UMBRA, we believe that everyone deserves to feel secure in their living space, enabling them to fully enjoy the comforts of home and the beauty of nature. For more tips check out our Secure Lifestyle Toolkit and follow us @umbrainternational.
Finding a craftsman or artisan to create a one-off heirloom for your home is a rewarding process, and it needn’t be daunting. A truly bespoke piece of furniture is a collaboration between client and maker. This labour of love results in an exquisitely made possession as individual as its owner, and nothing elevates an interior like custom, artisanal design pieces.
But when it comes to commissioning a piece of furniture, where should you start? We speak with Alexander Shepel, founder of the multi-brand design studio and bespoke furniture-making business, SHEPEL’. With more than a decade of experience in the industry, Alexander explains how to commission bespoke furniture and the benefits it can bring.
Why should I invest in a piece of bespoke furniture?
By going bespoke, you can create pieces that perfectly suit your unique tastes, needs, lifestyle and environment. Whilst one-off pieces can be expensive compared to mass-produced furniture, the quality and longevity of hand-crafted items will far outlive that of high street options.
A bespoke piece can be the answer to practical problems, such as unusual layouts. We often craft joinery to solve design dilemmas which can’t be resolved with existing, off-the-shelf pieces. Commissioning something hand-crafted also presents the opportunity to support a maker you believe in and back a small business, rather than a ‘fast-furniture’ manufacturer.
What should I prioritise when commissioning a piece of bespoke furniture?
Case goods, like wardrobes and kitchen cabinets are at the top of the list when it comes to investing in custom design. When tailored to your home, these can stretch up to the ceiling and fit into awkward nooks, maximising every inch of storage space, and helping you to be more organised – whilst syncing perfectly with your existing design style.
If you’re contemplating designing a bespoke kitchen, always consider how your kitchen will need to evolve with your lifestyle. Your needs and tastes might change over time. Design your kitchen with the future in mind. Think about elements like adjustable shelving or multi-functional spaces that can adapt as your life changes.
How can I create a design brief?
One of the important parts of our work is identifying the desires and needs of the client through conversation about their habits and hobbies. We’ll ask you exactly where the piece is going to go and what functions it will need to fulfil. We’ll ask things like, do you anticipate this item getting a lot of use, or will it be more ornamental?
Next, we’ll explore your personal style and aesthetic preferences, asking questions such as: Is there a period you like or a particular design movement that speaks to you? Which materials do you find appealing? We’ll ask you to think about other pieces of furniture you have loved, and which design details you might like to incorporate into a new piece. We’ll also need to understand how important this piece is within the room as a whole – do you want it to be the star of the show or a functional object that blends into the background?
How can I make sure I choose the right maker?
A good furniture maker will take care of everything, personally visiting your space to take all the necessary measurements and get a feel for your style. We determine proper scale and sizing for your piece based on the layout of the room and your personal preferences. For bookcases, wardrobes, and sideboards, consider what you plan to store inside. This will guide our plans for shelf heights and drawer sizes.
What better way to celebrate International Women’s Day than by hearing the thoughts and opinions of some of the spectacular female voices from within the BBB community? From women supporting other women to achieve their dreams and shining a light on those who deserve to be seen to carving out an equal and inviting space for future generations, these words are powerful, inspirational and deserve to be heard. International Women’s Day is our moment to reflect on the pioneering women who paved the way, take stock of where we are today, and look ahead to the future we strive to reach…
“Being a woman in business and life these days is absolutely wonderful as we are at the cusp of seeing real change for the better with regards to how women are perceived and treated in every sphere of life. We need to embrace our remarkable feminine energy and power, standing together as women and also with men, recognising their struggles too, moving forward together into a new era of mutual respect and conscious power, making the world a more equal and better place for all.” – Linda Hugo, Beyond Curated
“The Soke came to be thanks largely to the support of some formidable women who, on hearing of the concept, provided not just moral but also financial support to get it off the ground. Today, about 60% of our investment comes from women and I’m proud to attribute The Soke’s success to the conviction of a group who had no hesitation in putting their money where their mouths were. Long may such women believe in, and give a hand up to, the rest of us.” – Maryam Meddin, The Soke
“Although I tend to be sceptical about these celebratory days, International Women’s Day does give me the opportunity to reflect upon all the wonderful women who touch and have touched my life. To reminisce about women who helped shape my life with wise counsel, colleagues who supported me I them as we navigated male dominated workplaces. Friends who were there for me, and I for them, when we had children, got divorced, faced personal battles. What a truly wonderful bunch of women. I shall raise a glass to you all today.” – Sasha Speed, Financial Coach
“International Women’s Day is an important day to focus on celebrating and cheering each other on. I’m a big believer in collaboration over competition and we should continue to raise each other up. I don’t know who wrote this but I’ve always loved this quote ‘Here’s to strong women. May we know them. May we be them. May we raise them.'” – Flip Dewar, Director, Organised Chaos Management
“To quote Michelle Obama ‘there is no limit to what we, as women, can accomplish’ and today on International Women’s Day this should be celebrated!” – Kirsty Tucker, SORTED Personal Management
“Even though there have been huge steps in recent years to acknowledge and celebrate female artists globally, there is still a long way to go in terms of fully recognising the importance of women in the history of art. I therefore enjoy using International Women’s Day as a chance to promote female artists whose work I love and collect personally, or to spotlight some lesser known female artists from the past. Of course, in addition to this, the day is always a celebration of the wonderful women in my life!” – Sarah Talbot Capes, Talbot Capes Ltd.
“Reflecting on International Women’s Day, I reflect on the most inspiring women, who, with self belief, hard work, sacrifice, sheer determination and dedication have paved the way for myself, and every female, to believe we can do whatever we want to do. I want all women to know that with passion, love, hard work, and self-confidence, we have the power to make our biggest dreams come true.” – Amie True, Harpist
“I would like my daughter and my niece to grow up in a world where they can be powerful and strong, fierce even, without having to compromise their femininity. I’d like to spend this International Women’s Day respecting all men AND women in business. We’re teammates. Let’s do this.” – Naomi Astley Clarke, Luxury London Interior Designer
“We have come a long way, but in a world that is still so biased against women, it’s more than important than ever to stand up. I’m so inspired by the women in my family, they are fearless, strong and beautifully unique. I am proud to be a woman and I hope I can live like them. A quote that’s as relevant now as when it was written, by the iconic Maya Angelou ‘I love to see a young girl go out and grab the world by the lapels. Life’s a bitch. You’ve got to go out and kick ass’.” – Alex Popoff, BBB Events & Partnerships
“As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we remain steadfast in our commitment to advocating for talent and creating a modern workplace. Our journey over the past 25 years has been defined by the versatility, intelligence and brilliance of the women who have been part of the PuRe team. As we look to the future, we are committed to building on this legacy, creating an office where all individuals, regardless of gender or background, can thrive and succeed.” – Cara Ward, Co-Founder and Director of PuRe PR
“A time to appreciate the strength of the feminine; her ability to let go of control! To be in the ‘not knowing’ and still she shares her heart. This is true courage and true strength.” – Faye Reason, Energy Worker
“Celebrating International Women’s Day is a wonderful opportunity to acknowledge the progress that has been made towards gender equality and to recognise the achievements of women in every sector. It’s also a reminder of the ongoing work still needed to address imbalances and promote inclusivity and diversity in all aspects of society. Women supporting one another is as crucial now as ever, on our journey towards attaining true equality and empowerment.” – Zoe Hoffman, BBB Health & Wellbeing Host
As the role of luxury expands into every facet of life for the elite, the realm of automotive appreciation has evolved. With more people seeking to indulge their love for cars in a sophisticated and personalised manner, the demand for bespoke garages is continuing to grow. Gone are the days when a garage was simply a utilitarian space to store vehicles. Today, it’s a meticulously curated gallery where prized cars are displayed like works of art.
Philippa Thorp, the founder of luxury design studio Thorp, has a profound understanding of the passion that drives car enthusiasts. As a car aficionado herself, Philippa has been transforming garages into striking displays, strategically positioned and crafted to provide their owners with an immersive experience that celebrates their love for cars. “Luxury garages are an increasingly popular trend, and certainly something I’m seeing in most of our projects at Thorp. For car enthusiasts, it’s not about making a statement – they just want to enjoy their cars in a glorious, tranquil setting, which allows the car to be the jewel of the room”, says Philippa.
Thorp’s projects go beyond mere functionality, creating spaces that celebrate the beauty and craftsmanship of each vehicle. Take, for instance, a recent property where Thorp designed a garage for a client with a passion for exquisite limited-edition and vintage cars. The brief was clear – the garage wasn’t just a storage space; it was a place where the owner could immerse themselves in the splendour of their collection. From optimal temperature control and ventilation, to carefully designed lighting and architectural materials contrasting the glossy exteriors, every aspect was tailored to enhance the visual appeal of the vehicles and ensure they would be kept in the right conditions.
Overlooking the garage is a home office, from where the owner can enjoy their cars at all times, whether working or entertaining business colleagues. To ensure that the whole space is a true celebration of automotives, Thorp designed a façade of bookcases which display an extensive and rare collection of car literature. Behind it are a kitchen and bathroom, blending practicality with opulence.
Another project by Thorp which epitomises the evolution of luxury garages is an upcoming property in London, featuring a transparent box. Philippa says, “We are taking the concept of luxury garages to new heights with a unique ‘celebratory box’ made of glass to house an Aston Martin, creating a clear showcase that integrates with the surrounding environment. This design not only protects the car and emphasises its beauty, but also adds a touch of modern sophistication to the overall aesthetic.”
As we look to the future, it’s clear that the luxury garage is more than just a trend – it’s a symbol of a deep appreciation for automotive artistry and a reflection of the discerning tastes of collectors. These spaces have expanded beyond the confines of a traditional garage, seamlessly integrating with other aspects of luxury living.
Love it or loathe it, our style choices say a lot about us. Think Steve Jobs and his distinctive all black attire or how a certain look determines every defining shift in Madonna’s musical career. What we wear creates an impact and how we shop for said wears, even more so.
So, as we start to understand the devastating impact of fast fashion on our planet and seek more sustainable avenues to satiate our sartorial needs, there was no better time to sit down with Chiara Menage, Founder of Menage Modern Vintage.
Read on for the story of how it all began, Chiara’s ultimate fashion era and her top tips on vintage shopping…
Could you start by telling us how Menage Modern Vintage was born?
I started my website, Menage Modern Vintage, in 2018. I had a wardrobe full of clothes that I had collected over the years, which I no longer wore. Some of them had real sentimental and collectable value and I wanted to find good homes for them, so someone else could enjoy them. When I started telling people about the project I discovered a lot of them felt the same way; you could say it has backfired on me – instead of emptying my own wardrobe I now have an inventory of literally thousands of clothes, shoes and accessories.
What is the best part of your job?
I have met a lot of interesting people doing the job; because it’s a small business I’ve been able to build personal relationships with my clients. I visit them at home and I’d say the moment when they open up their wardrobes is the most exciting part, you never know what treasures you’re going to find.
My previous career in the film industry has opened up another fun aspect of the job, which I didn’t predict at the outset: supplying costumes for the film industry. I sometimes get an early brief and they ask me to source special pieces, which I really enjoy. Clothes and costume can say so much about character, both on screen and off.
What does fashion mean to you? Has it always been a part of your DNA?
Actually, I have never been very interested in fashion as such. My mother made all my childhood clothes, which was a mixed blessing, but I did learn about quality of fabric and what goes into making a garment. I’m more interested in these aspects and I did inherit a love of clothes. The first thing I bought for myself was from Kensington Market, a mecca for all sorts of vintage clothes which I frequented a lot in the 1980s. It was a wonderful Victorian petticoat which I wore with a military belt and DMs. I’ve been buying vintage ever since.
It is becoming increasingly popular to source vintage and shop second-hand. What for you are the main reasons to opt for vintage over luxury/fast fashion?
Sustainability is the most important issue in today’s fashion industry. The sheer wastefulness of fast fashion and over-consumption; the disposability of cheaply manufactured goods, the injustices in the supply chain; the horrendous environmental damage during the production process and the eventual disposal of all those thousands of tonnes of discarded clothing into landfill. All good reasons to only ever buy second hand.
There are of course other great advantages. You can afford to buy much better quality when you buy second hand, even high end designer items become accessible. This in turn means the clothes last longer and keep their value. But most of all, it’s so much more enjoyable to discover something unexpected, rather than wandering aimlessly around the high street being sold stuff that everyone else is wearing.
If you could relive any era of fashion what one would it be and why?
I have a soft spot for the seventies, although there were some truly awful moments; the nineties was when I started buying for myself, Vivienne Westwood, Rifat Ozbek, John Galliano, other great designers when I could afford it. I worked in Great Portland Street, which was at the time a centre of the rag trade, they used to have brilliant sample sales. Sadly I didn’t know then what I know now and I gave so much of it away. I see some of the pieces at auction now and want to cry.
What advice would you give to someone foraying into vintage shopping for the first time?
Not everyone can pull off a head to toe vintage look. If you’re new to buying, choose a statement piece you love and wear it with dependable wardrobe staples. Buy from trusted sources – there are sellers who are jumping on the bandwagon and trying to pass off as “vintage”. Be aware that sizing has changed over the years, and a size 12 from 20 years ago is more like a 10 nowadays, so check measurements if buying online. If you’re rummaging in a shop, trust your fingers, feel the quality of the fabric. Hold the garment up to the light to show up any moth holes. And put everything in the freezer for a week when you get home to kill off any lurking moth eggs.
And finally, what does the future hold for Menage Modern Vintage?
I never know from one moment to the next and that’s how I like it.
Whilst it may certainly be a day that splits the crowd, for those who like to partake, Valentine’s Day is a wonderful time to show that special someone that you care. So if you do choose to celebrate the day, read on for some inspirational ideas from the wonderful team at Hometainment. Whether you’re showing some love to a longtime partner, an extra special friend or a family member you just couldn’t live without, there are options to suit any and every occasion…
Shilpa Bespoke Florist
Shilpa offers personalised floral services to lend an air of elegance and style to a wide range of events. You’ll see their vibrant floral installations and bouquets bursting with colour at weddings, celebrations and events. Shilpa currently supplies floral designs to the Shangri-La at the Shard and creates stunning, retail floral installations in Central London. Think ahead this year for Valentine’s Day and get the perfect bouquet for you.
Kuofi Table Scaping
Using what you have at home, Kuofi can show you how you can create a stylish and chic tablescape for your guests. Kuofi can help you to understand what to use within your reach from nature or your home-grown herbs as accessories to make your table setting super chic and welcoming – without the need to go out and buy extra decorations. With over two decades of experience in luxury brand management, where she gained all her knowledge, Kuofi will share how to entertain with maximum impact on an affordable budget. She will teach you what colour works by using what you have at home, or where to source if you must buy something new. This event is interactive and is perfect for couples who want to go above and beyond in setting up a dinner to perfection.
Private Chef Michael B Valentine’s Dinner
Michael is a classically trained chef starting his career working in a 5-star hotel with a 2 Michelin-star restaurant. He’s worked in top restaurants such as Le Chabichou, Le Palme d’Or, Chef Pierre Gagnaire and Hotel Oustau Baumaniere. Along with this, he has worked alongside Jason Atherton for 2 years, and a variety of the top French and British chefs. Since then Michael has moved forward with working in top Michelin-star restaurants all over France. Imagine the delight on your guest’s face when you book a private chef to prepare a luxurious meal, who could name a better gift?
Mobile Bar & Cocktail Bartender
Derrick is a bartender and barista with more than 12 years experience working in restaurants, bars and private parties. Whilst working mostly with establishments he has also worked over 100 events all over London and the UK. Hailing from Kenya and flourishing in Somerset, Derrick has picked up both culturally hospitable skills and puts them to work well in this ever so varied industry. Derrick is always driven to provide guests with a memorable and lasting experience – mixing your favourite drinks at home whilst serving a high-end bar quality experience to you and your guests.
Harpist Amie Serenade
Curating a legacy of musical excellence, Amie is a Luxury Wedding and Event Harpist adding grandeur, elegance and sophistication to your celebration. Performing her harp music for the most affluent companies, brands, and hotels, clients of Amie include The Dorchester, Claridge’s, The Savoy, Christie’s, IBM, Fast Company, Intel, LOTUS, Lang Lang Foundation, Marriott Bonvoy, Fairmont Hotels, The Royal Exchange, and Four Seasons. Amie will serenade you within your space and create an idyllic romantic atmosphere on this special occasion.
To book any of these incredible experiences for your Valentine’s Day, simply head to Hometainment.co.uk.
And What Is Concierge Medicine?
Have you ever wondered the secret to priority, VIP access to the very best doctors and hospitals? If you have visited Los Angeles recently, you’ll know that any international, UHNW client will have a membership for this – to their very own concierge doctor; which is now massively growing in popularity both in and outside of the USA.
Prompt access to healthcare is a top priority for international citizens – who seek the highest quality healthcare wherever they go. In recent years, concierge medicine has grown in popularity because not only is it membership-based (providing exclusivity), it can offer patients 24/7 access to their own personal doctor. Concierge medicine is well established in the US, but many clients now seek concierge doctors in London; which has become a major hub for an UHNW, international clientele.
Understanding Concierge Medicine
Concierge medicine, often known as ‘retainer medicine’, originated in 1996 in the USA and is an advanced healthcare model where patients pay an annual membership fee to register with their private GP or ‘concierge doctor’, in exchange for a much higher level of service and a smaller, exclusive patient list. This type of care delivery model is a more exclusive form of care that involves 24/7 physician access, same-day appointments, and highly personalised, comprehensive care with expedited specialist and hospital access. Concierge doctors are primary care physicians– e.g. General Practitioners/Family Doctors.
Concierge physicians have a limited, exclusive patient list due to being membership; which enables focus on providing highly personalised care, preventative or regenerative medicine, and priority referrals to secondary care practitioners or hospitals. For example, at HealthClic, we have one of the most exclusive patient lists, with a ratio of 50 families only registered with one HealthClic concierge doctor (private G.P.).
Concierge Doctors in London & UK
Since 2015, Concierge Medicine has also emerged in the UK, offering a higher quality healthcare experience which is beyond the traditional UK private sector, which is now overburdened with patients and waiting lists that are simply unsuitable for an UHNW clientele. The first concierge practice which opened in the UK was HealthClic, offering traditional, American-style concierge medicine services to London’s elite, catering to individuals seeking a higher level of attention and personalised healthcare.
Benefits of Concierge Medicine
Studies on Concierge Medicine
“A two-year data analysis by Qliance Medical Management Inc. indicated that their subscription-based membership model actually saved patients 20% in health care costs due to reduced hospitalizations, specialist visits, and other sick care interventions.” – SOURCE
“Similarly, a published study by MDVIP concluded that their subscription-based membership model reduced patient hospitalizations by over 70%. Staying out of the hospital is priceless for us all.” – SOURCE
Considerations for Concierge Medicine
It is important to note that, while concierge medicine is considered the highest calibre of private healthcare you can access, there is a variety of concierge practices available – from $2,000 annual membership to $25,000. Patients who choose concierge doctors should understand the varying membership fees; which can vary depending on the level of services provided, the exclusivity of the patient list, and the experience of the concierge doctor you are registering with.
In Summary
Nevertheless, Concierge Medicine aims to elevate the patient experience and provides a clear choice for those seeking a more personalised healthcare journey with easy access to medical care, above the usual, traditional Harley Street-style GP practices in the U.K. which are now facing a large burden with 1000s of patients on their patient list.
As the demand for personalised medicine and the international community in the U.K. continues to grow, concierge doctors are likely to continue playing a crucial role in the U.K.’s healthcare system, contributing to improved patient satisfaction and outcomes. By bridging the gap between traditional healthcare and tailored medical services, concierge medicine is revolutionising the way UHNW clients experience and engage with healthcare.