Show home dressing leads to sell out success at Feckenham Gardens

Show home dressing leads to sell out success at Feckenham Gardens

by Charlotte Ashton United Kingdom
  • Alexander James Interior Design brings contemporary rural chic to Worcestershire vilage
  • Developer Lockley Homes has now sold show home and all other homes off-plan
  • Stunning interior design marked turning point in sales success

A new collaboration between Alexander James Interior Design and Lockley Homes has resulted in a hugely successful show home at Feckenham Gardens in Worcestershire. The show house has highlighted the importance of interior design in selling property.

 “It’s so important for potential buyers to be able to feel themselves living in a property. Bare walls and empty rooms require too far a stretch of the imagination in many cases. That’s why interior design is so invaluable when it comes to selling property – buyers feel at home the moment they walk in the door, then want to turn that feeling into reality.”

Robert Walker, Managing Director, Alexander James Interior Design

This was precisely the case with Feckenham Gardens, a development of six luxury homes in the sought-after Worcestershire village of Feckenham. The show home had received a small number of viewings, but no offers. As such, Lockley Homes decided to work with the team at Alexander James Interior Design, which has been recognised as one of the World’s Top 100 Interior Designers by the Andrew Martin Design Awards 2016 and 2017.

The Alexander James team were delighted to work with Lockley Homes to create a relaxed, rural home, blending traditional country style with a contemporary twist. The talented design team took inspiration from the property’s driftwood garden sculpture and incorporated it into the interior scheme. In the living room, this was reflected in the driftwood coffee table base, while a mix of reclaimed wood and an olive green colour palette brought the outside into the kitchen.

A muted, soft pink tone ran throughout the scheme to create a warm, neutral base. Meanwhile, the master bedroom drew inspiration from luxury country hotels, with a tall, deep buttoned headboard, embroidered cushions and handcrafted bedsides.

“With such an enviable village location at Feckenham Gardens, which comprised a mix of six unique bungalows and houses, it was only natural to commission one of the leading interior design houses in the UK. Alexander James Interiors produced a truly exclusive showhome in one of our luxurious bungalows. The ‘AJI effect’ was evident instantly, as Lockley Homes agreed a sale on the showhome within 24 hours of going live on the market. We are very excited to collaborate with AJI on our upcoming scheme.”

Karl Lockley, Director, Lockley Homes

Following the dressing of the show home, interest in Feckenham Gardens picked up significantly. The dressed property sold with 24 hours and all other properties have now been reserved off-plan.

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

Yorkshire stares down Brexit uncertainty to become property investment honeypot

Yorkshire stares down Brexit uncertainty to become property investment honeypot

by Charlotte Ashton United Kingdom
  • House prices in London falling at fastest rate since 2009 (Acadata)
  • Yorkshire projected to enjoy average price rises of 3.6% for next 5 years (Barclays)
  • Vast array of investment options & locations turning Yorkshire into investment honeypot (Property Frontiers)

Uncertainty lingers over much of the UK property market. London’s house prices are falling at a pace not seen since 2009, according to the latest figures from Acadata and LSL Property Services, with September prices dropping by 2.7%. Meanwhile, Hometrack data reveals that property turnover in the capital has plummeted by 17% since 2015.

However, while investors may have their jitters about London, the same can’t be said for property in Yorkshire. Prices in the northern county are projected to rise by an average of 3.6% over the coming five years, according to the Barclays UK Property Predictor.

“Steady, stable growth of this nature – in addition to the potential for decent rental yields – is precisely what investors are looking for from the UK property market right now. Property investment is about beating the Brexit uncertainty to find those pockets of the country where property markets are holding their nerve. That’s why investors are turning to northern counties like Yorkshire.”

Ray Withers, CEO, Property Frontiers

Yorkshire is home to a number of bustling cities. In addition to Leeds and Sheffield, Bradford, Doncaster, Scarborough, Halifax and Wakefield all offer plentiful employment opportunities and a great location for professionals and families looking to enjoy the urban lifestyle.

Bradford is the fourth largest metropolitan district in the UK, with an economy worth more than £8.3 billion. Outside of London, it is the UK’s fifth fastest growing city. Investors are increasingly being drawn to its hotel sector, with developments such as Fabric, in the city centre, offering a low entry point (rooms from £65,000) and yields of 10% NET per annum for up to 10 years. Bradford’s economy is supporting exceptional 5% annual growth in hotel revenues. Occupancy is on a gentle incline, while rates are steeply rising according to Armstrong Watson.

Meanwhile, other opportunities across the county abound. Investors who prefer apartments have been excited by Danum House, just a two-minute walk from Doncaster train station. One bedroom apartments are available from as little as £83,000 thanks to the exceptional value to be had in this Yorkshire city. Yields of 7% per annum are assured for five years in this popular, art deco style department store conversion.

“One of Yorkshire’s attractions is the range of investments and locations that it offers. This is truly a county with a property to suit every budget – hence it’s rapidly growing status as a top UK investment honeypot.”

Ray Withers, CEO, Property Frontiers

 

Over in the much-loved seaside resort of Scarborough, investors can buy into the next chapter in the history of the majestic Harland Hotel. The building oozes traditional charm, just as one would hope for from a hotel overlooking the bay of one of the UK’s most traditional seaside hotspots. The luxurious rooms are available for as little as £60,000, with ongoing income of 10% NET over 10 years proving a strong lure for investors looking to beat Brexit with strong returns.

The latest Yorkshire development set to tempt investors will be Martins Mill in Halifax. The 60 apartments, due to hit the market imminently and exclusively through Property Frontiers will breathe new life into the former textile mill, which dates back to the 1800s. The development will be the latest in a long line of Yorkshire successes for the Property Frontiers team.

“Property Frontiers has been operating in Yorkshire for many years. Apartments at Hebble Wharf in Wakefield were particularly well received back in 2015 and highlighted the investment appetite for this part of the world. With Brexit creating uncertainty in London and the surrounding area, investors are increasingly looking to areas like Yorkshire for longer-term stability. As such, we expect investment in this county to continue to expand.”

Ray Withers, CEO, Property Frontiers

 

For more information, contact Property Frontiers by visiting www.propertyfrontiers.com or calling +44 1865 202 700.

As London falls, prime Paris pulls buyers across the Channel

As London falls, prime Paris pulls buyers across the Channel

by Charlotte Ashton France
  • London property transactions down 17% since 2015 (Hometrack)
  • Brexit and Macron combining to push buyers from London to Paris (FrenchEntrée)
  • France moved ahead of Germany for venture capital investment in 2016 (Atomico)

London and Paris used to vie for the attention of prime property buyers. However, it seems that a combination of factors is increasingly positioning Paris ahead of London as the place where wealthy buyers want to pick up a luxury home.

In the UK, London has struggled to market itself to would-be home buyers ever since the country decided to leave the EU and the ongoing saga of the Brexit process is doing nothing to reassure wealthy buyers.

According to Hometrack, property turnover in the British capital has dropped by 17% since 2015. Meanwhile, recent figures from Acadata and LSL Property Services show that London property prices fell by 2.7% in September – their sharpest pace of decline since 2009.

Over in France, Paris is enjoying quite the opposite effect. While the UK’s politics are in disarray, France is enjoying the benefits of the Macron effect. The dynamic new President’s confidence is serving to inspire a new era in French politics – and in Paris’ property market.

Apartment prices in the French capital rose by 5.5% in the year to Q1 2017, according to La Chambre des Notaires de Paris. They are expected to continue their steep rise in the wake of Macron’s election in May. Demand is also up, with a record 848,000 housing transactions in 2016, based on figures from the European Central Bank. In Paris, the spike in demand was reflected in a 23% rise in the number of apartments sold in the year to Q1 2017. In Ile-de-France, that figure rose to 32%, according to La Chambre des Notaires de Paris.

The Macron effect is also spurring on residential construction in Paris, with the number of dwellings authorized up by 6.7% year on year in July 2017, according to L’INSEE.

“We’ve seen a notable uptick in appetite for French property in the past few months, particularly in and around Paris. Second home buyers are keen to take advantage of President Macron’s commitment to reduce taxes for property owners. At the same time, Paris offers a great deal of stability that London no longer can, which is extremely attractive to buyers from overseas.”

 Annick Dauchy, Property Business Development Manager, FrenchEntrée

 

Overseas buyers in Paris hail from around the world. Russian buyers can’t get enough of the French capital at the moment, while US buyers are also active in the £1 million plus market, according to premium French property agents FrenchEntrée.

Le Marais is the most sought after arrondissement by this group, who love its village-like vibe. The Haut-Marais area, close to Republique Metro and further away from the river is a hip and happening base for fashionistas and trend setters, with a vibrant atmosphere and bustling nightlife. An active local mayor ensures plenty of cultural and community events, creating a fabulously unique atmosphere. The area’s popularity has pushed prices up – buyers need to budget around €12,500 per square metre as a base point (compared to €8,450 for Paris as a whole). They also need to move quickly if they’re to have any hope of snapping up one of the area’s hugely sought after studio apartments.

Buyers from the Middle East, meanwhile, love the glitz and glamour of the 8th arrondissement. In addition, buyers from the UK and elsewhere in Europe have been looking at Paris with fresh interest since President Macron took the helm.

Macron’s commitment to reduce property taxes is not the only draw. His pro-business approach is working in conjunction with the new French Tech Visa and Station F (the largest start-up campus on the planet) to attract new wealth and energy to Paris.

France has already moved ahead of Germany in terms of the amount of venture capital it is attracting, with Atomico reporting that venture capitalists invested £2 billion in France last year, and just £1.6 billion in Germany. The UK is still ahead of France (with venture capital investment of £4.7 billion in 2016), but the phenomenal acceleration of investment in France means that it has a realistic chance of catching up very quickly.

With Paris positioned as one of the world’s leading cities for business, wealthy buyers are keen to pick up appropriately grand properties there – and Paris certainly doesn’t disappoint in this respect.

An elegant, four-bedroom apartment in the 9th arrondissement will set buyers back a cool €2.69 million, while a stunning loft apartment can be had for just €1.9 million. Buyers looking for a blank canvas to imprint their own style then this duplex apartment just steps from the Palais de l’Elysée is ideal at €570,000.

 “One of the countless charms of Paris is its ability to appeal to buyers of all tastes. It has something for everyone, from homes dripping with old world grandeur to ultra-modern conversions that are perfect for leading tech entrepreneurs. In addition, now looks like a great time to buy, with prices beginning to increase steadily in value thanks to the dual effect of Brexit and Macron.”

Annick Dauchy, Property Business Development Manager, FrenchEntrée

For further information, contact FrenchEntrée on +44 (0)1225 463752 or propertysales@frenchentree.com. You can also visit https://www.frenchentree.com/property-for-sale/.

Be announces zero fees for West London lettings

Be announces zero fees for West London lettings

by Charlotte Ashton United Kingdom
  • Average letting fee is £404 (Generation Rent)
  • Be:here Hayes letting fees now £0
  • Change driven by desire to make moving as cost effective as possible for tenants

According to the Association of Residential Letting Agents (ARLA), the average letting fee charged by its members is £202 per tenant. According to campaign group Generation Rent, the national average is £404. That’s a substantial amount for tenants to hand over, particularly given the other costs associated with moving house.

Now, pioneering build to rent developer Be has announced that it is moving to a no fees model for its be:here Hayes development at The Gatefold Building in Hayes, West London.

“We recognise that moving can be an expensive and stressful experience. We’ve already cut out some of the stress of moving house by providing superb, fully furnished apartments here at be:here Hayes alongside inventories and check-in being done in-house by our on-site team. Now we can reduce the cost of moving for our tenants too.”

Akash Sharma, Assistant Property Manager, be:here Hayes

Under the new offer, effective from October 16th, Be pledges to charge no referencing fees, no fees for contract updates when sharers change and no extra deposits, admin or processing fees relating to pets (a monthly ‘pet rent’ of £20 will still apply).

In addition, the company has announced that it is reducing its requirement for security deposits at be:here Hayes from six weeks’ rent to just a month’s rent – saving new tenants over £500 when renting a one bedroom apartment.

“We want tenants to enjoy moving into be:here Hayes, so that means making the process as hassle free and cost effective as possible. We’ve never charged agency fees because we do all our own lettings in-house, but we’ve gone one step further and removed the referencing fee and all other admin fees. This means new tenants have one less thing to worry about and can use the extra cash to explore their new West London neighbourhood or add a few extra personal touches to make their new apartment feel even more like home.”

Akash Sharma, Assistant Property Manager, be:here Hayes

 

Exploring the local area is certainly something that residents in the Gatefold building will be keen to do. The ambitious Old Vinyl Factory reimagining is bringing restaurants, shops, a cinema, a live music venue and more to residents’ very doorstep. Meanwhile, the Grand Union Canal and nearby Minet Country Park and Barra Hall Park provide plenty of opportunity for enjoying fresh air and exercise while getting back to nature. It’s a superb local offering that tenants will now be able to enjoy even more of, thanks to Be’s proactive approach to saving money.

Hayes and Harlington station is just a short walk from be:here Hayes, with fast, frequent trains to Paddington in under 20 minutes. When Crossrail arrives in 2019, residents will be able to reach Bond St in the heart of the West End in under 30 minutes.

Spacious apartments, furnished by Habitat, are available at be:here Hayes from £1,200 pcm for a one bed and from £1,450 for a two bed. Either a garden or a balcony is provided with every home and pets are welcome.

For the latest availability and any questions, please contact the be:here Hayes team directly on 020 3369 1646 or visit http://www.behere-hayes.co.uk/.

Buyers go Wild for luxury at Wildcrest by Hamill Homes

Buyers go Wild for luxury at Wildcrest by Hamill Homes

by Charlotte Ashton United Kingdom

 

  • Hugely successful Hamill Homes Wildcrest launch event showcased work of Alexander James Interior Design
  • Lifestyle showcases featured the work of Beau Han Xu and McLaren
  • Visitors delighted with bespoke Lida Cucina kitchen

An exclusive new residential launch has shown just how creative it’s possible to be when building an atmospheric viewing experience. Guests invited to the bespoke private residence Wildcrest, in Sunningdale, were treated to fine wines and canapes as part of the viewing, which also encompassed a showcase of McLaren cars from the company’s new sport series, as part of the external dressing of the property.

Once through the impressive front door, visitors enjoyed the work of leading interiors firm Alexander James Interior Design, which has been recognised as one of the World’s Top 100 Interior Designers by the Andrew Martin Design Awards 2016 and 2017.

“Working with partners like AJI allows us to showcase our product. We believe the houses that we create are truly special, and AJI offers that wonderful finishing touch that transforms them from amazing houses to spectacular homes. We have been proud to work with AJI and look forward to more collaborations in the future.”

Kevin Hamill, Director Hamill Homes Ltd

The one-off house features a range of stunning pieces, such as the work of Beau Han Xu. Xu is a designer and gemologist known for his superb glassware collection, which includes breathtaking decanters and glasses with freefall Swarovski Beau Cut zirconias in their stems.

“Products like the Beau Han Xu collection perfectly encapsulate the lifestyle offering of Wildcrest. This unique property, created by Hamill Homes, is simply exquisite. It was essential that the interior design reflected the grace and elegance of the house itself.” 

Robert Walker, Managing Director, Alexander James Interior Design

The hugely successful launch event, held on 12 October, also showcased the Lida Cucina kitchen, with guests able to experience live cooking stations as part of their experience.

“A property such as Wildcrest deserves an outstanding kitchen. We worked to create a bespoke space that is incredibly stylish, while also offering all of the practical touches required for contemporary family life. The result is a kitchen that even the most committed foodie would be delighted to call their own.” 

John Harvey, Managing Director, Lida Cucina

In keeping with the tone of the property, the launch event also featured a clay pigeon shooting simulator, as well as an exclusive Linn Lounge event. Linn is known for presenting iconic artists for intimate musical performances across the UK. The opulence of the overall offering was such that Luxury Marketing House spent the day on site, filming the successful launch. The event was run in conjuction with The Luxury Network, which is known for coordinating and connecting a wide range of ultra-luxurious brands.

“This was one of those unique property events that promised to deliver an outstanding, immersive viewing experience. It presented visitors with a true taste for the sumptuousness of the lifestyle being offered by Wildcrest. Interior design plays a key role in that, with the subtle interplay of colours and textures creating an overarching feeling of welcome, elegance and indulgence.” 

Robert Walker, Managing Director, Alexander James Interior Design

 

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

Chamonix price rises continue to draw in property buyers from around the world

Chamonix price rises continue to draw in property buyers from around the world

by Charlotte Ashton France
  • Rising property values and rental incomes continuing to draw buyers to Chamonix (FrenchEntrée)
  • 38% of foreign investment in French property is focused on The Alps (BNP Paribas)
  • Chamonix, Les Praz and Les Moussoux at heart of recent price rises (FrenchEntrée)

Since it hosted the first ever Winter Olympic Games way back in 1924, the town of Chamonix has been synonymous with skiing during the winter months. However, the area’s growing year-round appeal and rising property values means that it’s no longer just powder-hounds who are taking an interest in this breathtakingly beautiful pocket of France.

“As Chamonix maintains its reputation as a year-round destination, we’ve seen a marked increase in buyers looking to part-fund their holiday home investment through its rental potential. Values in prime areas of the valley are rising swiftly and the promising underlying rental value is opening the area up to an array of new buyers.”

Annick Dauchy, Property Business Development Manager, FrenchEntrée

Premium French property agents FrenchEntrée cite chalets and luxurious apartments in Les Praz and Les Bois as the most sought-after properties at present. Buyers are looking to combine a second home investment with good rental potential in order to cover some of their costs through the income that can be made from the property.

Capital gains are also a consideration, with Chamonix, Les Praz and Les Moussoux all enjoying price rises at present, while values in Les Houches, Taconnaz and Les Bossons all retain their value.

Chamonix is about so much more than just winter sports. Aside from the obvious charms of the ski season, the town offers an attractive and well-visited destination, no matter the season. The stunning heights of Mont Blanc provide an incredible backdrop to the town, while abundant flowers both in and around Chamonix provide a beautiful contrast to the mountain’s pristine white slopes. Whether they’re exploring by foot, bike, skis or snowboard, Chamonix has the power to take visitors’ breath away with its staggering beauty.

The town enjoys good access from Geneva airport and offers a wide range of properties for sale. During the summer months, hiking and mountain biking are both popular, while the local culture, Savoyard fare and a range of festivals and events ensure there is always something on hand to enjoy.

The most common properties available are apartments ranging in value from €350,000 to €650,000. Two- and three-bedroom chalets are also popular and can command asking prices of anything from €1.3m to €2m.

Those looking for a particularly impressive abode can pick up a six-bedroom, five-bathroom chalet with pool in a superb setting for a cool €6.3m. Meanwhile, a four-bedroom chalet can command anything up to €3,870 per week in rent over the peak of the winter season.

Of course, property investment in the Alps is nothing new. Sales in the area account for 38% of foreign investment in French property, according to BNP Paribas’ mid-2016 market update. However, the recent rise in rental potential is driving a new wave of interest in the Chamonix area in particular.

“Buyers are definitely waking up to the fact that their property can work for them when they’re not using it. With low interest rates added into the mix at the moment, Chamonix has become far more accessible to those looking to pick up the perfect second home.”

Annick Dauchy, Property Business Development Manager, FrenchEntrée

For further information, contact FrenchEntrée on +44 (0)1225 463752 or propertysales@frenchentree.com. You can also visit www.frenchentree.com.

8 Top Tips to Perfecting Your Country Home Decor

8 Top Tips to Perfecting Your Country Home Decor

by Charlotte Ashton United Kingdom

Country home decor is about blending the traditional, rustic charm of your countryside location with contemporary finesse to create a peaceful, welcoming environment in which you feel completely at home and utterly comforted.

So how do you achieve the ultimate country home design? Here top interior designers, Alexander James Interior Design, share their favourite tips and tricks to help you get the look.

 

  1. A Timeless Colour Combination

Tip: The classic combination of crisp blue and brilliant white is a timeless country home decor look. Fresh and utterly charming, you can use this blue and white scheme in your pottery, linens and accessories.

This driftwood coffee table with glass top adds yet another of country charm, acting as a stunning statement piece and adding an organic, earthy feel to our living room design.

  1. Inspirational Themes from Nature

Tip: Country home decor would not be complete without bringing themes of nature into the home, referencing inspiration from nature throughout your interiors.

In our Cotswolds barn conversion, this avian themed dining area is symbiotically styled with the exterior of the property, reflecting elements of nature throughout and rich character in these bespoke studded dining chairs.

Celebrating this beautiful Oxfordshire countryside setting, we brought nature indoors with this enchanting bird themed design, adding touches of comfort and luxury with these beautiful William Yeoward fabrics.

  1. A Haven of Relaxation

Tip: When we think of countryside retreats, we imagine escaping the hustle and bustle of modern life, recharging and enjoying a spot of relaxation. Your country home decor must therefore be designed with the utmost relaxation in mind.

This luxurious cinema room is both refined and classic in design, offering the perfect space in which to relax and unwind, with two elegant day beds taking centre stage of the room, dressed with soft furnishings and sumptuous Johnstons of Elgin throws.

The gentle tones of ivory and muted teal enhance the light, airy design of our contemporary Surrey barn, creating a haven of relaxation with these luxurious Romo and Zoffany fabric cushions.

  1. Organic Elements of Nature

Tip: Incorporate natural elements from the outdoors into your interiors to create an authentic country home decor look. Use organic elements that induce a sense of calm and peace, such as beautiful woods.

Styled to its beautiful countryside surroundings, our stunning Cotswolds project brings nature into the interiors with topiary pots, rustic wooden furniture and richly coloured florals and soft furnishings.

We designed our latest Henley-on-Thames show home for Millgate Homes to exude the traditional charm and countryside beauty of this historic, riverside town – with bespoke, rustic wooden furniture and sumptuous fabrics by Romo.

5.  A Warm, Open Welcome

Tip: Design every space in your interiors to emit a warm sense of welcome to achieve the perfect country home look. It’s the little touches that count; the scented candle emanating a beautiful fragrance throughout the room, the display of magazines on the coffee table and the luxurious throws awaiting an afternoon of reading on the sofa.

The rustic kitchen diner setting, antique-style metal framed wall clock and framed prints all add to the country charm in our modern Surrey barn project, whilst the soft colour scheme and vibrant lavender plant offer an enlivening, spring-like feel.

  1. An Essential Spot of Luxury

Tip: Just because we associate country home decor with rustic character, doesn’t mean that a touch of luxury need be neglected! On the contrary, luxury plays an important role in offering true comfort within a country home.

This bespoke ottoman in sumptuous Kirkby Design fabric adds another layer of luxury to the alluring master bedroom in our Cotswolds project.

At the foot of the master bed elegantly sits this bespoke made seating, dressed beautifully with luxurious Camengo and Zoffany cushions and a lavish faux fur throw.

  1. The Refreshing Vitality of Florals

Beautiful floral displays will bring another element of nature into your country home decor, invigorating the space with new life and fresh vitality.

Traditional yet contemporary, these elegant bobbin chairs and dining table by Julian Chichester rest serenely beneath the high-vaulted oak beams of our rustic Surrey barn project. With ivory tones and magnificent floral display, this design is fresh, light and ethereal in its tranquility.

This damask motif Harlequin wallpaper of interlocking flowers in mirror effect radiates femininity and natural charm, whilst the Jane Churchill fabric cushions bring an indulgent sense of comfort to our Henley-on-Thames bedroom design.

  1. An Abundance of Light

Tip: A common misconception is that country homes are filled with a multitude of trinkets, furniture and accessories, but this can lead to a confused, chaotic look. Be careful not to clutter your interiors, rather create spaces that are bright and airy, filled with natural light.

Brimming with natural light, we designed these vibrant riverside homes to reflect the quaint countryside location, with luxurious Romo fabric cushions, solid oak coffee table and abundant plant displays.

For more information please contact Alexander James Interior Design on 020 7887 7604 or visit www.aji.co.uk.

China celebrates its prosperity this Golden Week – but are Chinese investors doing the same?

China celebrates its prosperity this Golden Week – but are Chinese investors doing the same?

by Charlotte Ashton World
  • Half of China’s population is due to travel this week (China National Tourism Administration)
  • 57% of Chinese consumers plan to purchase property while overseas for Golden Week (Juwai)
  • Liverpool and Manchester set to benefit from Chinese investment (Properties of the World)
  • Golden Visas in Spain, Portugal and Turkey are drawing in Chinese investors (Spot Blue)

 

There was nothing subtle about the 17-metre fruit basket sculpture that adorned Tiananmen Square to mark China’s 68th National Day. Huge pomegranates, persimmons, apples, peonies and roses represented the country’s prosperity and strength as Golden Week got underway.

Occurring twice each year, Golden Week is a week-long national holiday that sees business in China grind to a halt as citizens enjoy a week of travelling, feasting and spending time with loved ones. Between 1 and 8 October, the China National Tourism Administration estimates that some 710 million Chinese citizens will be on the move, as a full half of the population makes the most of the holiday period.

While regular business operations all but cease during Golden Week, there are some areas, such as investment, where business booms over the course of the holiday. As this particular holiday coincides with China’s Mid-Autumn Festival, making an eight-day break instead of a seven-day one, the boon to companies and sectors that catch Chinese investors’ eye is expected to be even bigger than usual.

One sector to particularly benefit from Golden Week is the international property sector. According to a Juwai survey, 57% of its Chinese consumers have plans to purchase property while overseas this Golden Week.

 “With nearly half of China’s population on the move during Golden week, obviouslt business slows down.  This gives business owners and the higher end Chinese property buyers the perfect opportunity to visit a number of countries and seek out that ideal property investment. With a weaker sterling since the Brexit result in 2016, the UK will be one of such country being visited. Since June 2016 there has been an increase in Chinese interest in properties in the UK mainly due to the weaker GBP against the RMB. But the UK still remains behind the United States and Australia for countries of choice for Chinese buyers due to concern about what the future holds for the UK once it leaves the EU in 2019.”

James Trescothick, Chief Global Strategist, easyMarkets

 

In terms of the UK, cities such as Manchester and Liverpool remain popular with Chinese investors and look to reap the benefits of the extended Golden Week.

 “With a whole week off for Golden Week, it’s an ideal time for Chinese buyers to scour the planet for enticing investment opportunities and Manchester has all the elements needed to be a big hit. 

“China is such a vast market and interest in UK property is increasing with each passing year. Projects like Herculaneum Quay in Liverpool, where construction is well underway, are particularly attractive as their looming completion dates mean that buy-to-let investors can already see their end goal.”

Jean Liggett, CEO, Properties of the World

 

Beyond the UK, it is another kind of gold that Chinese investors are seeking – namely, Golden Visas.

 “The introduction of the Golden Visa schemes in Portugal, Spain and Turkey have driven real interest from Chinese buyers. High net worths are particularly attracted to the offer of full residency in Western nations through these Golden Visas and we regularly receive a good number of enquiries for properties priced at €500,000 or more for just this reason. 

“In terms of locations, Chinese buyers still seem keen on prime locations such as Marbella and the Golden Mile on the Costa del Sol, Portugal’s capital Lisbon and cosmopolitan Istanbul in Turkey. Golden Week has traditionally been a busy time for us fielding enquiries from potential “fly and buy” Chinese buyers looking to view properties for sale whilst on their holiday travels.”

Julian Walker, Director, Spot Blue International Property

With Golden Week well underway, investment companies of all kinds are dashing around, seeking to satisfy their Chinese investors’ demands over the holiday period, hoping to make this a golden week for the investment sector, as well as for China.

 

On the market during Golden Week:

Herculaneum Quay – luxury waterfront apartments ranging from one to three bedrooms, starting from £125,000. The development includes a swimming pool and roof garden. Circa 8% rental returns. (Available through Properties of the World.)

Beyoglu Apartments, Istanbul – three bedroom apartments costing from £1,001,940. These off plan apartments feature a communal indoor pool and fitness centre, plus private garden, just a five minute walk from Taksim Square. (Available through Spot Blue.)

River View Apartments, Lisbon – these one and two bedroom apartments offer views over the Tagus River in the sought after Chiado area of Lisbon. Priced from £620,092, the fully renovated apartments are due for delivery in the first quarter of 2018. (Available through Spot Blue.)

Benhavis Apartments, Malaga – priced from £646,484, these superb penthouse apartments come with a communal pool and landscaped gardens in one of the most exclusive areas of Benhavis. (Available through Spot Blue.)

 

For more information, please contact:

easyMarkets: +44 203 1500 748 or www.easymarkets.com

Properties of the World: +44 (0) 20 7624 5555 or www.propertiesoftheworld.co.uk

Spot Blue International Property: +44 (0) 208 339 6036 or www.spotblue.com

 

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Alexander James Interior Design voted one of world’s top 100 interior designers in Andrew Martin Awards 2017

Alexander James Interior Design voted one of world’s top 100 interior designers in Andrew Martin Awards 2017

by Charlotte Ashton World

For the second year running, Alexander James Interior Design has been independently voted as one of the world’s top 100 interior designers in the prestigious Andrew Martin International Interior Designer of the Year Awards.

Dubbed “the Oscars of the interior design world” by the Sunday Times, the Andrew Martin Awards recognise the most talented interior design teams from around the world.

Globally respected and renowned, the award attracts entries from across the planet. The world’s very finest interior designers are judged by an esteemed panel, which has in the past included the likes of Jo Malone, Terry O’Neil, A A Gill and the Duchess of York. This prominent award has been won by Kelly Hoppen, Kit Kemp and Martyn Lawrence-Bullard, to name just a few well-loved icons who have been rightfully recognised.

“To be nominated for an Andrew Martin Interior Design Award once is an honour. To be nominated two years in a row is simply outstanding. I am indebted to my incredibly talented team here at Alexander James Interior Design for their skill in blending cutting edge creativity with a timeless sense of style. It’s fantastic to see that their hard work has been so deservedly recognised once more.”

Robert Walker, Managing Director, Alexander James Interior Design

The work of the 100 finalists is featured in the prestigious and highly influential ‘Interior Design Review,’ otherwise known as the bible of the interior design world.

Alexander James Interior Design proudly occupies six pages of images in the 2017 Design Review. Having been recognised again this year as being one of the world’s top 100 interior designers cements the firm’s position as one of the leading players in the industry.

The Interior Design Review has become a cultural catalogue, illustrating social and political movements as well as contemporary lifestyles, much like the awards themselves. With more than 1,000 colour photographs, it is a staple for professional interior designers, architects and anyone with a passion for design.

The 2017 Design Review launched on the 1 September 2017, and is available to purchase here. The winners of the 2017 Andrew Martin Interior Design Awards will be announced on 23 October 2017.

For more information contact Alexander James Interior Design on 020 7887 7604 or visit www.aji.co.uk.

New partnership paves the way for those seeking style on the seas

New partnership paves the way for those seeking style on the seas

by Charlotte Ashton United Kingdom
  • Alexander James Interior Design partners with Sunseeker London Group
  • Southampton Boat Show and Cannes Yachting Festival showcasing stylish interiors
  • World debut of The 76 Yacht brings the Sunseeker lifestyle to the fore

Attendees at the Cannes Yachting Festival and the forthcoming Southampton Boat Show are lucky enough to enjoy the results of a new partnership between leading interiors firm Alexander James Interior Design and luxury yacht company Sunseeker London Group.

With twenty years of experience in creating award-winning interiors, the exclusive dressing of the yachts has offered an extra dimension to the work of the Alexander James Interior Design team.

“We’re keen to inject our passion, style and sophisticated luxury into the already glamourous yachts for which Sunseeker is so well known. It’s a pleasure to have worked so closely with Sunseeker once again in the world of luxury yachting.”

Robert Walker, Managing Director, Alexander James Interior Design

The partnership follows the success that the two companies have enjoyed when they have worked together for previous yachting events.

For Cannes, the Alexander James stylists have styled the San Remo, Manhattan 52, Manhattan 66 and Predator 68 vessels, all of which have been extremely well received.

For the Southampton show, the team has also dressed Sunseeker’s largest boat, along with the 57 Yacht Mark 2 and the 76 Yacht, which makes its world debut this year.

It was important to the team that the soft furnishings and home accessories used to dress the yachts complemented the already exquisite styling that is innate to the Sunseeker brand. Thus, to achieve the right lifestyle look, Alexander James has partnered with artist, gemmologist and designer Beau Han Xu, as well as with British perfumer Jo Malone. Beau Han’s involvement will see him undertake a film and photoshoot aboard the 95 Yacht as part of the Southampton show.

“I approached the design of each yacht by giving them a distinct look, using different colour palettes to give them an individual feel. I then used cushions, throws, floral arrangements and decorative accessories to provide a sense of sophistication and lifestyle.’”

Stacey Sibley, Creative Director, Alexander James Interior Design

Aboard the yachts at the Southampton Boat Show, items used from Beau Han included those from the Beau Han Barware collection, an exquisite collection of Swarovski glasses paired with a beautiful decanter, reflective of the luxury lifestyle that Sunseeker’s stunning yachts represent.

These stylish craft will travel on to other boat shows around the world once they have been presented in Cannes and Southampton. Forthcoming events include the Genoa Boat Show and Monaco Yacht Show in September, followed by London, Dusseldorf, Poole and Swanwick in 2018.

 “It’s wonderful to be able to share the elegance of perfect interiors with new audiences in this way and to showcase the versatility of outstanding interior design. We look forward to working with Sunseeker to take their superb yachts from strength to strength over the years ahead.”

Robert Walker, Managing Director, Alexander James Interior Design

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