They lived well on tropical plantations in the 1800s; the weather might have been hot and steamy but life was cool and graceful in their stately homes. We bring back the romance of these rural oases with golden tones, natural finishes, fruits and foliage.

FIND THE WHOLE STORY IN ISSUE 5, 2008

The perfect drink for a long summer’s night. Makes 6 drinks.

INGREDIENTS
ice cubes
1 1/4 cups (300ml) Pimm's
1 litre lemonade or dry ginger ale, chilled
sliced lime to serve

OPTIONAL
150g strawberries, sliced
1/4 cup firmly packed fresh mint leaves
100g piece cucumber, sliced

The strawberries and cucumber can be sliced several hours ahead. This recipe is best made just before serving.