Kris Turnbull and his Belfast-based boutique design consultancy, with offices in London, recently undertook a project with a difference on a new build holiday home in Europe. Here Kris tells us more about the challenges and experience.

Embarking upon a new build project to ensure hopes and dreams become reality can be a daunting thought for many people and my clients on this project were no different. In contrast to their minimalist, monotone home in Belfast, they enlisted my services to help them achieve a dreamed of second home. Working over the course of a year, I spent time getting to know their personalities, what they loved and desired, their needs and aspirations, translating their background and profile into an amazing new-build holiday home in Europe.
The project was so exciting. I was involved from the very beginning: right at the planning and build stage. This allowed me to become involved with key feature elements that many people forget, yet are so important, especially in relation to a home of 10,000 square feet. Working alongside a Spanish architect who trained in Oxford, we created the ultimate family pad!
I was able to design the kitchen, bathrooms, tiling, door furniture and detailing, along with structural elements, to allow the interior master plan to unfold. The brief was clear; my client wanted a James Bond design and look, but a family home with cutting edge style. I took all the elements the family loved and created the interior space for them to live the dream. As the house was clearly a substantial home, the clients didn’t want this to just be used for a couple of weeks in July, but to be designed as a home abroad. My task was to create a variation of interiors to allow the house to be used through all seasons.
The key design feature within the lounge area was a full wall of sliding glass panels, extending out to an elevated terrace overlooking the golf course with the ocean in the distance. This feature transformed the room from a very rich and warm interior space for autumn and winter to a wondrous space for spring and summer evenings.
The lighting throughout the house was essential as the scale of each space would be lost without considering lighting design. Working alongside Erco Germany, we created a fabulous ambi-task concept. Two lounging areas were created giving the room many facets by placing furniture away from the exterior of the room. Using contemporary sofas from Fendi, pholstered in Andrew Martin and Ulf Moritz fabrics in their richest colours, the room can take on many looks depending on the time of day and ambience of the space. I incorporated Angelo Donghia and Christopher Guy occasional chairs giving that contemporary/ classic luxurious fusion. Ardecora & Dominique Kieffer pleated silks and bronze/metallic sheers completed the perfect backdrop to this breathtaking room.

Importantly and exceptionally ASA has been granted a special exemption from the restrictive Swiss ‘Lex Koller’ law. This law restricts property purchases by non-Swiss residents. Due to this unique status, non-Swiss buyers are able to acquire and transfer residential property in ASA without authorisation until the end of 2030.
Swiss legislation generally makes it very difficult (in many cases impossible) for foreigners to purchase property. ASA is currently the only Swiss residential property without restrictions and can therefore expect to attract a healthy worldwide interest. The knock on will be to allow greater appreciation in values than other parts of Switzerland. Furthermore, no further significant development is planned, again enhancing property value. Well located Swiss property has been one of the most stable investments over a prolonged period of time, appreciating by 40% in the last 15 years alone. Located in the Canton of Uri, Central Switzerland, ASA should offer better than this median increment.

For the master bedroom my client was looking for a five star, boutique hotel feel. The room was designed as an everchanging space, all about texture, reflection and metallics. Feature fume reflective glass doors recess and slide into walls opening up into the ensuite from the master bedroom. Double sinks, rain shower and bath, the dark Emperador marble floor, metallic bronze damask wall tiles and walnut cabinetry make this room a very intimate space. To retain an ‘edginess’, I used what I call ‘dream glass’ in the exterior windows. A current runs through the glass and just like turning a light switch on and off, it transforms from transparent to opaque; a fantastic technique if budget allows. A pencil detail with the two stone materials of light and dark joined the floor materials between these two areas. This room had to be special!
I used a grass effect gold leaf wall covering from France for the feature backdrop to the Fendi Casa bed in metallic leather. Bespoke side tables in Java cafe wood with burnished silver leaf highlight, dressed with smoked Porta Romana glass table lamps, accent fabrics and upholstery fabrics by Rubelli, Venezia dressed the room.
My clients are massive movie fans so when I saw the basement, it had to be transformed into a spectacular home cinema. As many materials throughout the house are hard with a ombination of stone and wood, I created a contemporary take on the old pleated cinemas, but inverted the pleat on the fabric walls to give a more interesting appearance. With a special quilted walling and 400 metres of fabric, the acoustics in the room were amazing! Rather than traditional rowed seating, I designed modular daybeds to create a comfortable, relaxed atmosphere for lounging with groups of friends or family.
It’s all about lifestyle in this home and the TV dayroom by the swimming pool is no different. With fully recessed, reflective glass walls, this room is an inside/outside space as it becomes part of the swimming pool and south facing terraces. During the daytime, it is a retreat from the sunshine and in the evenings a casual and playful environment filled with colour and texture. This room was a brilliant surprise for me: the natural light in this part of the world is so different and the selection of colours radiated interest and character. This house…no, this home…is special.
It’s a delight to be in and admire, a place you arrive at and just be who you want to be. A pad that James Bond would be proud of and what was once a dream is now a lifestyle reality for my clients. The whole project and experience was a pleasure!

Kris Turnbull Studios
111 Buckingham Palace Road Victoria, Westminster London SW1W 0SR
Telephone: +44 (0)20 7340 8723
135 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7AG
Telephone: +44 (0)28 9068 8600
Website: www.kristurnbull.com
Email: studio@kristurnbull.com

Tags: Kris Turnbull Studios

Telephone 01372 843833

OXSHOTT WAY ESTATE, COBHAM £3,850,000
A beautifully appointed five bedroom New Home occupying a perfect site on this desirable private estate. Fontridge is set in almost half an acre with south-aspect landscaped gardens – the overall specification is enticing. The significant floor area of c. 7,000 sq ft gives you a home of roomy but gracious proportions; at the same time the high quality design and build features ensure that this will be a family home of enduring appeal. Similar to the home featured above.

Tags: Surrey, Cobham

Telephone 01372 843833

OXSHOTT - PRIVATE ESTATE £2,495,000

On Oxshott’s prestigious Knott Park Estate, only 1 mile from the village, this individually designed luxury family home offers spacious, well planned accommodation comprising 5 bedrooms and 5 reception rooms. The bespoke designed kitchen with adjoining family room and conservatory overlook the gardens and countryside beyond. The house is further complemented by a large patio providing the perfect outdoor space for al fresco entertaining.

Tags: Surrey, Oxshott

A stunning new development is under construction at Andermatt in the Swiss Alps which when completed will offer the ultimate property investment and ski getaway.

Orascom Developement Holding AG is a highly respected developer of fully-integrated and planned towns. That may sound a little prefabricated and dull, but far from it as it holds a reputation for attention to detail and quality. Testament to this can be found in developments built throughout the world. Developments have all the necessary infrastructure: hotels, private villas and apartments, retail and leisure facilities. The focus is to ensure sustainability and not compromise on quality.
Switzerland is still seen as the ultimate European safe haven, and despite the rise in the Swiss Franc, remains a very popular destination. Orascom’s wholly owned subsidiary, Andermatt Swiss Alps (ASA), is a pioneering development, offering the opportunity for a secure investment in overseas property.

Importantly and exceptionally ASA has been granted a special exemption from the restrictive Swiss ‘Lex Koller’ law. This law restricts property purchases by non-Swiss residents. Due to this unique status, non-Swiss buyers are able to acquire and transfer residential property in ASA without authorisation until the end of 2030.
Swiss legislation generally makes it very difficult (in many cases impossible) for foreigners to purchase property. ASA is currently the only Swiss residential property without restrictions and can therefore expect to attract a healthy worldwide interest. The knock on will be to allow greater appreciation in values than other parts of Switzerland. Furthermore, no further significant development is planned, again enhancing property value. Well located Swiss property has been one of the most stable investments over a prolonged period of time, appreciating by 40% in the last 15 years alone. Located in the Canton of Uri, Central Switzerland, ASA should offer better than this median increment.

In the heart of the Alps, the complex comprises six 4 and 5 star hotels, 490 apartments, 25 villas and a sports and leisure centre. For businesses, there are conference facilities for 600 delegates and an 18-hole golf course. The ski area, facilities and pistes between Andermatt and Sedrun will be modernised and combined.
Andermatt has been a highly sought-after resort for over 100 years. In addition to Queen Victoria and Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, the village has played host to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Not forgetting Sean Connery, who made a fuel stop in Andermatt in the James Bond film ‘Goldfinger’. So you’ll be in good company!

Tags: Orascom Developement Holding

221b is arguably the most famous address in Baker Street, but doesn’t actually exist; number 94 Baker Street does. A real slice of pop history has recently changed hands.

It’s fitting for the Beatles iconic Apple headquarters, once the epicentre of cultural clashes from which emanated a generation of change, to have a new owner: Weybridge-based Malins Group. Managing director Lauren Atkins is a woman who has been doing her fair share to change ingrained perceptions in a male dominated building and construction world.
As a child Lauren remembers collecting rents with her father, Malcolm, now Malins’ chairman, who originally set up the property investment and development business. It was not until she became a mother herself that she decided to abandon her city desk and swap city finery for a set of overalls and a building site. Venus’s influence is very much in the ascendancy at Malins, and Lauren has assembled an all female management team. She is convinced women bring multi-tasking to building design and development. She feels their often untapped abilities to compromise, focus on the practicalities required and concentration on construction and interior design at the same time bring fresh perspective to any new challenge.

An example of these abilities was displayed in a recent project: Chapter House Development, Pimlico where larger, open-plan kitchens were installed rather than traditional utility rooms. Full height bookshelves on the stairwell and lots of storage space were also features that occupants of Mars may have overlooked. Lauren admits she becomes immersed in any project from the beginning and adds: “I end up with a lovely feel towards the properties. I design to appeal to both men and women. Let’s face it, if it is a man and
a woman who are buying a property, who makes the final decision?”
Lauren is well aware of the historical importance of the Grade II listed building. “94 Baker Street has a unique place in the history of The Beatles and we are planning to create the ultimate piece of Beatles’ memorabilia – a chance to own a slice of the Fab Four’s story.”
As well as the base for The Beatles’ record empire in the late 1960s, the Apple Boutique was opened at street level in 94 Baker Street selling clothes and accessories. The aim of the shop was, according to Paul McCartney, to create: “a beautiful place where beautiful people can buy beautiful things.” The launch party in December 1967 was attended by John Lennon, George Harrison, Eric Clapton, Jack Bruce, Cilla Black and Kenneth Tynan. Invites stated: “Come at 7.46. Fashion show at 8.16.
© Peter Lovás | Dreamstime.com

A psychedelic-style mural was commissioned and painted over the Georgian building by art students, but planning permission had not been sought and the artwork was ordered to be covered in white paint to satisfy Westminster Council and the landlord, the Portman Estate. George Harrison, in an interview conducted for The Beatles Anthology, said: “If they’d protected it and the painted wall was there now, they would be saying, ‘Wow, look at this. We’ve got to stop it chipping off.’ But that’s just typical of the narrow minds we were trying to fight against. That’s what the whole Sixties’ Flower-Power thing was about: Go away, you bunch of boring people.”
The Apple Boutique at number 94 failed to make money and the decision was taken to close it. The night before the closure, The Beatles, their wives and girlfriends came to take what they wanted. The next morning it was announced that all remaining stock was to be given away on the basis of one item per person. In his interview for The Beatles’ Anthology, George Harrison described the event: “We ended up giving the contents away. We put an ad in the paper and we filmed people coming in and grabbing everything.” Word spread quickly and the shop was empty within hours, with police being drafted in to control the crowds. Apple Corps later moved to offices in Wigmore Street and then Savile Row.

Lauren Atkins says “94 Baker Street has a unique place in the history of The Beatles and we are planning to create the ultimate piece of Beatles memorabilia – a chance to own a slice of the Fab Four’s story.”

Lauren and The Malins Group have firm plans and co-operation with Westminster Council in mind. Lauren confirms: “In addition to the fascinating Beatles’ heritage, 94 Baker Street is in the heart of Marylebone Village, with its mix of mansion blocks, apartments and fabulous shops and restaurants. Our first concern now is to work with the council to achieve the building’s true potential.”
As George Harrison commented at the time: “A couple of nearby shopkeepers decided they didn’t like the tone of the building, although others liked it because it brought a lot of attention. Before that, other than Sherlock Holmes, Baker Street was nothing.” He need not worry this time round.

The Malins Group, Suite 5 The Monument, 45-47 Monument Hill, Weybridge, Surrey KT13 8RN
Telephone: 01932 857005 Website: www.malinsgroup.co.uk

Tags: Beatles, Malins Group, Apple, 94 Baker Street

“A grass roof reduces heat loss by in excess of 30 per cent more than current building regulation requirements and reduces the visual impact of the dwelling in the landscape.”

This extraordinary home was created with two things in mind: to make the most of the views of the countryside and to make it as energy-efficient as possible. Architect Ralph Guilor explains his design concept.
Ralph Guilor Architects were appointed to provide a design for a contemporary and energy efficient dwelling to replace an existing run-down cottage located in a rural setting designated by the local planning authority as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
The site is elongated and has open aspects on all sides with mature landscaping and several of the trees have Preservation Orders (which ensures their protection and retention). The site has 360 degree views of the surrounding countryside.
Our client wished to ensure that his new home would take maximum benefit from the extensive views. This negated the possibility of a traditionally-styled building which would have required small cottage-style windows and it also prohibited the use of first floor balconies. This, coupled with his intention of creating an energy-efficient home, led us to consider a contemporary design.

The design takes its cue from typical agricultural commercial buildings which can be found throughout the local countryside and which generally display rectilinear plan forms with large uncluttered areas of cladding materials and natural stone/block work, with low pitched roofs.
This form of building lent itself very well to the plot shape, and to take advantage of views radiating from the site with large areas of glazing juxtaposed against large areas of solid masonry, a theme typical in barn-like structures.
The ends of the building comprise two large areas of curtain wall glazed cladding. This provides the majority of the new accommodation with all of its natural lighting and views. Glass balconies at each end continue this theme with a heavily-projecting roof and projecting rear walls to partially enclose these features within the overall design. The roof and balconies also serve as protection from the midday summer sunshine onto these large areas of glazing to reduce solar gain, whilst at the same time allowing the winter sun at its lower height to penetrate the building.
A grass roof reduces heat loss by in excess of 30 per cent more than current building regulation requirements and reduces the visual impact of the dwelling in the landscape. Furthermore the roof has a long life span with the grass and its substrate protecting the damp proofing membranes from the weather and extending their life span. A green roof reduces the discharge of storm water from the development.

The house employs the use of geothermal heating. This system pumps water into the ground which is then retrieved warm due the ground temperature. This warmed water is then pumped through under-floor heating pipe work. Fresh air is brought into the house by an air handling system which takes heated air from within the hot areas in the house.

The house has also been designed to include a storm water sustainable system which stores rainwater in an underground tank which is then pumped to within the new dwelling for heating, toilet flushing and other use not requiring purified water. This system will also provide a supply for garden watering. The property also has its own natural water supply, reusing a deep well found on the site during construction. LED lighting is used throughout and the garage roof has been designed to allow for the installation of photo electric cells to supply electricity for the dwelling when financially viable.

Tags: Ralph Guilor, Eco, House, Eco House

St Georges Place - A stunning new Octagon development

This development is marketed by Savills and has much to offer, including a fantastic location in one of Esher’s most sought-after private roads. Here is an exclusive development with everything you need: great location, great design and specification and the outstanding build quality of Octagon Homes.
This development of classically-designed townhouses and detached family houses is set in a secluded location off one of Esher’s most desirable roads and just a few minutes’ walk from the High Street.
St George’s Place is the initial release, comprising four semi-detached townhouses and two detached family properties. Wootton Place, which will be the second phase of seven properties, will be released at the beginning of 2013.
Arranged in two private cul-de-sacs, which are accessed by secure video controlled entry gates, each home has its own fully-landscaped garden, integral garage and forecourt parking.


Specification is of Octagon’s expected high standards, and includes under-floor heating throughout, with an extensive range of design features, including elegant marble entrance halls with contemporary marble, glass and walnut stair cases.
The extensive range of modern fixtures and fittings has been carefully sourced from Europe’s leading suppliers. These include kitchens with handcrafted linear-style glass fronted units and Miele built-in appliances, separate utility room with Miele washer and dryer, a contemporary gas fireplace in the drawing room and bespoke wardrobes in the bedrooms.


The master suite bathrooms are another fine feature with marble floor and wall tiles, bevelled mirrors, bespoke twin basin vanity units, bath and large walk-in shower.
There is under-floor heating throughout each property and also a high level of insulation ensuring low heat loss and energy bills. Each home is fitted with Cat 5e communications for advanced media systems, while the main security gate into the development is controlled by a video monitor for each property.

For more information please contact Savills Esher on 01372 461900 or email esher@savills.com

Tags: Savills, Esher, St Georges Place

Green Lane, Cobham Contact Tim Ross at Savills: 01932 586 200

Guide price: £2,650,000

Show house launch Saturday 15th September
Situated at the end of leafy Green Lane, Cobham, next to the magnificent Benfleet Hall, which was designed by the celebrated Victorian architect Philip Webb. In homage to the great man, the houses at The Mulberry’s have been named after three of his finest creations.
Briary, after its namesake on the Isle of Wight, once frequently visited by Lord Tennyson, is an impressive place to receive family, friends and important associates. Briary combines the finest in contemporary living with a respectful nod to the elegance and grandeur of a bygone era. Set in just under a third of an acre, at approximately 5,630 sq ft and comprising 5/6 bedrooms, all of which are ensuite.


Standen combines ultimate luxury with effortless living. Just picture superb features such as exceptionally high ceilings, natural stone flooring, bespoke oversized doors and handmade wardrobes in each dressing room. It’s the perfect place to live, love, entertain and relax.
Imagine rooms of grand proportions, stunning staircases, and even a romantic log-fuelled inset woodburner in the kitchen/family room, for just a flavour of what Briary has to offer. Set across an impressive six levels, the first floor has an elegant room to entertain with dark wooden floors and its own servery, which is connected to the main kitchen downstairs via a dumb waiter.
The concept behind the Mulberry’s was created by director Jo Pattinson who states: “Luxury is no longer about must-have labels, fussy cuisine and stuffy décor, it’s about more thoughtful, authentic and less complicated experiences. I believe our homes should be a reflection of how we want to live, warm and inviting in the kitchen where the family are drawn together, space to entertain with elegance, and opulent surroundings in which to sleep, dress and bathe.


“We have created the ultimate experience with luxurious interior design, lighting, sound and technology. Our vision is to create homes with a welcoming atmosphere, which you would love to
live in and be proud to own.”

Tags: Surrey, Savills, Mulberry's, Property Matters, Property

Telephone: 01932 586200

Guide price: £3,500,000
The Old Farm, on sale through Savills, is a fabulous property with a main house, a two-bedroom annexe, a one-bedroom cottage and a summer house in the heart of the Surrey Hills
The Old Farm, on the market through Savills Cobham for a guide price of £3.5 million, is a country house in a semi-rural area with broad appeal and versatility. Set within the Surrey Hills’ exclusive Givons Grove Estate, The Old Farm dates from the 16th century with later additions. The main house features four reception rooms and four bedrooms, all en suite.
Located close to the main house is an extensive underground ice-house with vaulted ceilings currently used as a wine cellar and additional storage. The studio/two bedroom annexe, one bedroom cottage and a summer house/atelier, as well as the seven-car collector's garage with glass doors, heating, air conditioning and separate alarm system and a modern fully-fitted workshop, complete this substantial holding.
The gated premises provide over 6,500 sq ft of living space on 2.5 acres of secluded landscaped grounds separated into various areas of interest. The main lawn is currently used for grazing by the two resident miniature ponies – not included in the sale – and there are paved terraces with mature shrubs and trees offering privacy and tranquillity.


The Old Farm is fitted with its own well that supplies all water to the house and to the property-wide irrigation system.
Tim Ross of Savills Cobham says: “This is a magnificent country home ideal for both entertaining and family living. Wonderful period features complement the fabulous contemporary design. It is suitable for home working and is the perfect secure retreat for a UK based or an international buyer who is seeking something quintessentially English.”
The property is conveniently located between Heathrow and Gatwick and only a few miles from Cobham and Esher with excellent schools within easy reach.

For more pictures and information about this property please visit >>> www.savills.co.uk

Tags: Surrey, Savills, Surrey Hills

Telephone: 01932 586200

Guide price: £3,495,000
This new detached property in lovely Eaton Park Road was built by Octagon and is available through Savills. The basement multi-car parking is just one amazing feature
Situated in the exclusive Eaton Park Road is a magnificent property currently available through Savills Cobham. Recently completed by Octagon Developments to an exceptionally high standard throughout, Hepburn House is set within almost half-an-acre of landscaped gardens and benefits from great attention to detail.
This modern home encapsulates numerous noteworthy features, including excellent security, programmable mood lighting, under floor heating to ground and first floors and extensive architectural detailing and feature stonework.
In addition, there is a heated driveway leading to the basement multi-car heated garage, ideal for secure parking and storage; alternatively part of this area could possibly be altered to accommodate a gymnasium or home cinema.
Ian Camplin of Savills Cobham says: “The garage in this fabulous home is a car enthusiast’s dream come true. The secure underground parking area can house numerous vehicles, and, interestingly, Octagon Developments have also drawn up plans to sub-divide, so creating additional appeal. Such is the overall size, it would still leave space for a great garage.”


He adds: “Coupled with this, the company has also taken the innovative decision to include a heated driveway, a truly inspired addition to the motorist’s armoury in the battle against the harsh British winter. And the impressively planted gardens are yet another aspect of this fantastic house.”
Eaton Park Road is well-located for the A3 and M25, Gatwick and Heathrow Airports, excellent schools, as well as the Cobham countryside and town centre with regular trains to London Waterloo.
There is ‘open-house’ viewing each Saturday and Sunday between 10am and 4pm and arrangements can be made through Savills Cobham. Please note, internal images taken of showhouse.

For more pictures and information about this property please visit >>> www.savills.co.uk

Tags: Surrey, Savills, Cobham