Emma
Bunton On her new London based venture
ALSO SUMMER DELIGHTS THE HOTTEST ROOFTOP BARS AND RESTAURANTS
LONDON CALLING OUR INTERNATIONAL REACH CENTRAL LONDON'S FINEST A SELECTION OF PROPERTIES AVAILABLE IN THE CAPITAL
MARVELLOUS MEWS HISTORY AND CHARMS REVEALED
Queen Anne’s Gate, SW1H £19,500,000
Dating back to 1704, a magnificent Grade I Listed townhouse. Arranged over six floors and overlooking St James’s Park, the property has been fully refurbished with meticulous craftsmanship. Offering five generous bedrooms, grand entertaining rooms and spacious family living areas. Dexters Westminster. 12 Greycoat Place, London SW1P 1SB T: 020 7590 9578 E: westminstersales@dexters.co.uk
15 Emma’s new London based venture
38 London’s hottest rooftop bars and restaurants
31 Marvellous mews
SUMMER 2017
DEXTERS
42 The great outdoors
Summer 2017
CONTENTS
06
The view from the top Jeff Doble explains why Dexters is different
10 Dexters Directors talk Knightsbridge & South Kensington International demand is high in prime Central London 15
Heart of London Emma’s new London based venture
20 Upstairs downstairs From period wonders to modern masterpieces 22
Elinor Ward’s Pimlico Discover this investor hotspot
24 Rachel Patient & Carly Cayser’s City With 30 years of experience, they talk property management
20 Upstairs downstairs
28 Benjamin Jobbins’ St John’s Wood Community spirit in popular NW8 31
Marvellous mews Providing oases of tranquillity in the capital
34 London calling Marcus Ward on Dexters international reach 38
Summer delights London’s hottest rooftop bars and restaurants
42
The great outdoors The latest design-led outdoor kitchens and furniture
46
Dexters dozen Our pick of London markets to visit this summer
48
Hidden gems Our guide of glorious gardens and delicious delis
46 Our pick of London markets to visit this summer
4-5
The view from the top Founder and Chief Executive Jeff Doble on what makes Dexters one of the most inspirational companies in Britain
I
T ALL STARTED IN WEST LONDON IN 1993 WITH A VISION TO CHANGE THE COMMON PERCEPTION OF ESTATE AGENTS. Set up as a busy workplace rather than a flashy showroom, that first Twickenham office set the tone for the next 24 years. As a qualified Chartered Surveyor, Jeff Doble knew he could set new standards in the industry: “I wanted to raise the professional bar and exceed customers’ expectations of what Estate Agents could be,” Jeff says.
Dexters remains one of London’s only major residential Estate Agencies that is a firm of Chartered Surveyors, regulated by RICS. This gives Dexters customers the reassurance of working with experts who adhere to the highest standards of regulation and ethical behaviour. Expanding rapidly since 1993, Dexters now has 28 offices in Central London, with more than 60 across London. “We’ve grown organically and through
acquisitions. We’re very customer focused, and it is our customers who have promoted our business through word-of-mouth recommendation, fuelling this growth” Jeff explains. He’s not wrong; more than 70 per cent of Dexters business comes from recommendation, referrals and repeat business. When looking for the key to Dexters success, you need look no further than its people.“We invest in long-term relationships,
S U M M E R 2 017
OUR STORY
6-7
DEXTERS IN BRIEF Dexters has 28 offices in Central London and over 60 across London, selling, letting and re-letting more than 20,000 properties a year. Dexters is currently carrying out up to 30,000 viewings every month across the capital. Dexters Corporate Lettings and International Relocation Team receives over 200 requests a week for prime London properties. Dexters has been named as one of the 1,000 Companies to Inspire Britain, for the third year running.
Jeff Doble, pictured at the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors in Westminster.
which means staff stay with us through their careers.” 90 per cent of Dexters managers have grown up in the company, thanks in part to Dexters focus on training and development. The firm estimates it spends around 10 times the industry average on training, and this commitment is evidenced by the fact that Dexters runs its own training academy, based in Pimlico. All this hard work has paid off. Late last year Dexters was named by the London Stock
Exchange for the third year running as one of the 1,000 Companies to Inspire Britain. In order to qualify for inclusion, companies had to show revenue growth in at least three of the past four years, in addition to outperforming their rivals in the same sector. Dexters was the only London Estate Agency on the list.“We’re incredibly proud of all we’ve achieved,” says Jeff.“2017 signalled our most successful start to a year ever, proving that we are moving forward when most of our competition is in reverse.”
Looking ahead, the outlook remains as bright as ever for Dexters, and for the London property market. London remains an attractive residential and investment prospect for an increasingly mobile global population. Dexters works for over 20,000 London landlords each year, and a typical month sees up to 30,000 property viewings for registered buyers and tenants across London. Dexters specialises in corporate lettings and international relocations, which puts them at the forefront of the prime Central London market, routinely dealing with customers from around the world. To find out more about Dexters Corporate Lettings and International Relocation Team, head to page 34. dexters.co.uk
St James’s Place, SW1A £5,950,000
An elegant Grade II Listed townhouse presented in excellent condition. The property has been refurbished whilst retaining many period features including original panelling, sash windows and shutters. There are three reception rooms, a large kitchen/breakfast room, five bedrooms, five bathrooms and a terrace. Dexters Mayfair. 66 Grosvenor Street, London W1K 3JL T: 020 7590 9590 E: mayfairsales@dexters.co.uk
Ladbroke Grove, W11 ÂŁ4,800,000
A beautifully presented family home in Ladbroke Grove. The property features a remarkable double height atrium, providing lovely views of the garden, a large double reception room, separate kitchen and dining room. There are four bedrooms, two with en suite bathrooms and a recently installed Wentworth Garden Room. Dexters Notting Hill. 121 Notting Hill Gate, London W11 3LB T: 020 7243 4500 E: nottinghillsales@dexters.co.uk
S U M M E R 2 01 7
KNIGHTSBRIDGE & SOUTH KENSINGTON
10-11
Peter Phillips & Craig Tonkin’s Knightsbridge and South Kensington International demand is as high as ever in prime Central London Kensington & Chelsea Sales Director Craig Tonkin has been selling properties here for over 15 years now, so knows the area better than anyone. Peter Phillips has been in the industry for 13 years and with Dexters since 2011. He heads the team in Knightsbridge. Finish this sentence: You know you’re in Knightsbridge or South Kensington when... Craig: You’re surrounded by museums, tourists carrying Harrods bags and locals sat outside coffee shops. What is it about the area that appeals to buyers? Craig: Buyers from London and across the world love the lifestyle around here. We are bordered by the river to the south and Hyde Park to the north, so there are lots of opportunities for fresh air and exercise and the area is really good for sports, gyms and spas. The shopping around here is obviously legendary, but it’s also a brilliant area for dining and socialising. Of course, there’s easy access to the West End and City too.
Who are the typical buyers in this area? Peter: We routinely deal with successful West End and City business people, often with international backgrounds. On any one day we deal with people from all over the world. Buyers from the Middle East, China, Far East and America tend to have a strong preference for Knightsbridge, Belgravia, Kensington and Chelsea. Craig: International buyers have always favoured South Kensington. The French Government’s Lycée – one of the most academically successful French schools outside France - is right opposite our office,
so year on year we see French students and families relocating here.
What do you love most about the properties in this area? Craig: SW7 is home to some of the most exclusive properties in the world. The style of the buildings in South Kensington is instantly recognisable: you don’t get that perfect blend of large white stucco fronted houses and red brick mansion blocks anywhere else in London. Though it’s a very international area, you often find there are locals who have lived here their whole life, which goes to show the enduring charm of South Kensington. Peter: We get to advise on sales of family houses predominantly from the Regency to the Victorian era, steeped in London history. However, looks can sometimes be deceiving behind period façades you’ll often find some extraordinarily modern interiors! We’re also increasingly selling many wonderful lateral flats that are the same size as houses but over one or two floors. We’re finding that these are often preferred by many buyers.
is to always instruct a recommended solicitor. Each area has its own quirks and idiosyncrasies, and South Kensington is no exception. People know by now to use an Estate Agent who is familiar with the area within which they are buying, but a local solicitor is equally important. So many times I’ve seen people put time, effort and money into finding their perfect home, only to have their dreams dashed by hiring the wrong solicitor. Peter: Don’t hang around. With properties in Knightsbridge being so unique, we will always have more than one buyer looking for the same thing as you. If you get that gut feeling when you see it, put an offer in and make it your home, before someone else does!
SW7 is home to some of the most exclusive properties in the world
How much does local knowledge matter when selling a great flat or house? Peter: We love to get the best price for our clients and that entails generating excitement and desire amongst buyers. It is important that our sales team fires the imagination of purchasers and can describe the lifestyle they can expect living locally. Buyers are often surprised by the amount of interest in property and we can receive multiple offers and competitive bidding.
If there’s one piece of advice I’d give buyers in this area it would be… Craig: My number one piece of advice
D
Find Peter, Craig and their team at: Dexters Knightsbridge and South Kensington 29 Harrington Road, London, SW7 3HD 020 7838 0108
dexters.co.uk
Edge Street, W8 ÂŁ4,350,000
This newly refurbished three bedroom home is located in the heart of Kensington. Perfect for entertaining, there is a large open plan kitchen, a spacious reception room and a central atrium. The property has off street parking for two cars, a private roof terrace and underfloor heating. Dexters Kensington. 64 Kensington Church Street, London, W8 4DB T: 020 7067 2430 E: kensingtonsales@dexters.co.uk
Park Lane, W1K ÂŁ4,950,000
An elegant two double bedroom duplex apartment in this white stucco fronted building on Park Lane. Entering the property, the hallway leads to a west facing reception room with access to a private terrace and paved garden. There is a separate kitchen, two bathrooms and a spacious conservatory. Dexters Mayfair. 66 Grosvenor Street, London W1K 3JL T: 020 7590 9590 E: mayfairsales@dexters.co.uk
Eaton Square, SW1W ÂŁ5,995,000
Set within this beautiful stucco fronted building is a two/three bedroom apartment. This period conversion combines both original features such as sash windows and panelled walls with modern fittings. Offering two large reception rooms, a spacious hallway, a kitchen/breakfast room, two bathrooms and access to communal gardens. Dexters Chelsea. 14 Culford Gardens, London SW3 2ST T: 020 7590 9510 E: chelseasales@dexters.co.uk
Heart of London The former Spice Girl and current DJ on London's Heart FM, on her new eco-friendly endeavour and why she’ll always call London home
T
WO DECADES ON FROM THEIR PRIME, THE SPICE GIRLS ARE STILL CONSIDERED CULTURAL ICONS AND ONE OF BRITAIN’S GREATEST POP CULTURE EXPORTS. As each
member went on to find worldwide fame, Emma Bunton stayed true to the city of her birth – but her latest project shows this Baby’s all grown up, and harbouring an ambitious dream. It was in the mid-1990s – when boys with guitars in swaggering Britpop bands were dominating the musical landscape – that the Spice Girls arrived on the scene in a carefully choreographed cloud of brash sass and feminine fearlessness. Dreamt up in a nondescript studio in a corner of Shepherd’s Bush, the Spice Girls would go on to take over the world, as Ginger, Posh, Sporty, Scary and, of course, Baby. In 2017 the group’s individuals are known the world over as singers, actresses, talent show judges and fashionistas. One even ranks as half of one of the world’s most recognisable marriages, the original celebrity power couple. But Emma Bunton has always been a little different. When it came to dealing with fame, the youngest member much preferred to stay tied to her roots: friends, family and her home city of London. When Bunton first moved out from her mother’s house to find “her own space”, she kept to her beloved North of the city, securing an apartment in Barnet. It wasn’t just the property’s close proximity to her mum, who she still “speaks to every day at least once” that made this new pad feel immediately at home – her neighbour was none other than Spice sister-in-arms, Mel C. “It was great,” Bunton says of bunking down near her Sporty colleague. “We were always nipping in and out of each other’s flats and although that’s some time ago, we still have a great relationship now.” Bunton’s close ties to the city where her career took off – as well as her supremely sunny disposition – also made her the perfect pick to replace Margherita Taylor as Jamie Theakston’s co-presenter on Heart FM in 2013 for ‘London’s favourite breakfast show’. Though Bunton had been an occasional contributor to the show, her being given a permanent place in the presenting hot-seat has coincided with a further surge in listener numbers. Breakfast with Jamie and Emma now reaches 524,000 listeners across the capital – and currently represents a crucial slice of the station’s 9.3 million strong nationwide listenership. Even without her popstar pedigree and life spent moving from borough to borough – her latest residence is with fiancé of six years and former boy band singer Jade Jones in Hampstead – Bunton’s talkative demeanour means she’s perfectly comfortable out and about in the capital. dexters.co.uk
“I love meeting new people and talking, so I’m happy to chat to fans,” she says. “It would worry me more if they ignored me! When I go out in Hampstead and fans come up to me and Jade, it really puts a smile on our faces.” The seamless transition from pop-star to early-morning radio host highlighted a hitherto suspected quality in Bunton that had perhaps been hidden by her innocentsounding sobriquet – a versatility and affability that could be put to good use as she reinvented herself once again as an entrepreneur with an international ambition. Earlier this year, Bunton co-founded eco-friendly family brand start up Kit & Kin. Based out of Dalston, the company makes biodegradable nappies and gentle skincare products, with the now businesswoman revealing at its launch that both her boys – Beau, 10, and Tate, 6 – suffered from eczema, and she had “struggled for so many years to find products that weren’t full of chemicals.” It’s a move that interweaves the ambition of post-Spice Girls Bunton: devoted mother, respected broadcaster, philanthropist and UNICEF ambassador. And in terms of polished business acumen, Bunton’s pioneering business is providing credible alternatives to the current mother and baby cosmetic industry, with the majority of the Kit & Kin-created nappy, including its packaging, biodegrading within 3 to 6 years, compared to conventional products that can take up to 500 years to completely break down. This business model is also supplemented with a commitment to giving back to the planet on a larger scale. For every 10 subscriptions, the brand promise to purchase and protect an acre of rainforest from the World Land
SUMMER 2017
AS CO-PRESENTER ON ‘LONDON’S FAVOURITE BREAKFAST SHOW’ HALF A MILLION LISTENERS ACROSS THE CAPITAL WAKE UP TO EMMA’S VOICE
EMMA BUNTON
16-17
Trust – an organisation that has been enthusiastically backed by Sir David Attenborough. As if Bunton’s desire to protect families like her own wasn’t enough, her new company is affording her the opportunity to learn further from one of the business’ best: Kit & Kin co-founder and Head of Product Development, Christopher Money. With over 15 years of experience in creating top-of-the-range mother and baby products, Money brings a proven track record in the industry, which is perfectly complemented by Bunton’s enthusiasm, drive and global profile, and is pushing Kit & Kin’s all-natural ethos to the forefront of an industry increasingly concerned with its environmental impact. Though Bunton has matured from cherub-esque songstress to ecologically minded commercial innovator, she still remains a part of the Spice Girls story. Recent media interest has even fuelled speculation that fans will soon be enjoying a reunion of sorts between Bunton, Mel B and Geri Halliwell as a trio. While her entrepreneurial vision may be global in scope, when it comes to reuniting with her friends in the best-selling girl group of all time, there’s one place she’s set her sights on should a triumphant return to the stage finally materialise. “I’d love to return to Wembley Stadium – during that gig we all just had to pinch ourselves!” she exclaims, recalling the 1998 extravaganza that has long been held as a performing paragon by the group’s legions of fans. “Music has always been my first love. I still love to sing live and perform and as far as the Spice Girls are concerned, we take each day as it comes, but there are special occasions you always want to repeat”.
Visit the Kit & Kin website at www.kitandkin.com
Bunton means business J amie Theakston’s co-presenter on Heart FM Breakfast with Jamie and Emma now reaches 524,000 listeners across the capital. C o-founder of eco-friendly family brand start up Kit & Kin Based out of Dalston, the company makes biodegradable nappies and gentle skincare products. U NICEF ambassador since 2014 Focusing on campaigns aimed at ending child malnutrition and eliminating maternal and newborn tetanus in the world's poorest countries.
dexters.co.uk
Vincent Square, SW1P ÂŁ3,250,000
A beautifully restored Grade II Listed Georgian house set on a garden square. This family home retains many period features throughout with French windows and original fireplaces. There are two/three bedrooms, a contemporary kitchen and a dining room which leads out onto a private walled garden. Dexters Westminster. 12 Greycoat Place, London SW1P 1SB T: 020 7590 9578 E: westminstersales@dexters.co.uk
Craven Hill Gardens, W2 ÂŁ3,695,000
This attractive townhouse has been finished to a high standard and has a private roof terrace and off street parking. Arranged over three floors, there are three well proportioned bedrooms, three bathrooms, an open plan reception room and modern kitchen. Ideally located for access to Hyde Park. Dexters Paddington. 1 Spring Street, London W2 3RA T: 020 7298 1550 E: paddingtonsales@dexters.co.uk
UPSTAIRS DOWNSTAIRS From period wonders to modern masterpieces, statement staircases have the power to inspire
HE STAIRCASE IS ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT FEATURES OF A HOME. “It’s
more than likely the first thing a visitor sees on entering, it represents the house and its owner’s personality, as well as the standing of a home,” says Kirsty Sugden, Director at Dexters Westminster. Up until the Nineteenth Century, the main drawing room, or ‘piano-nobile’, was situated on the first floor of grand houses: “The staircase became of prime importance, as guests would be taken up to the opulently decorated entertaining rooms, hence the need to have a suitably imposing staircase,” explains Kirsty. Today, whether a period feature or modern construction, a staircase’s design can significantly affect a home’s value, with buyers recognising the worth of a structurally sound and visually appealing staircase as a home’s centrepiece. When it comes to installing a modern staircase, homeowners in prime Central London tend to seek bespoke constructions and detailing, but there are some current themes: “There’s an ongoing trend towards open tread designs that allow light to run throughout the house. Together with the use of glass, we are seeing a lot of brass, bronze, wood and leather and the addition of designer lighting is bringing drama and personality to staircases,” says Garry Campbell of staircase specialist Macspec. If you have an idea for your dream staircase, specialist designers and engineers can make your fantasy a reality. For example, recent Macspec projects have involved creating a staircase with hidden fixings to create a seamless floating look, while another used gold leaf in laminated glass panels. Bear in mind there will be some limits. Garry explains: “Some clients would prefer very large gaps between open treads to create an airy feel, but there are safety regulations limiting the depth of the gaps. An expert will take your concept and show you what’s possible in realising your vision.” dexters.co.uk
Staircase by Macspec
T
THE STAIRCASE IS ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT FEATURES OF A HOME
AIR OF REFINEMENT
Contemporary designs are tending towards narrow and refined looks, as seen in this attention-grabbing staircase by Macspec. The covering of handrails is also bringing an increasing emphasis on very fine patterns and softer textures, delivering an additional sensory dimension to the stand-out staircase. The use of tactile materials on handrails means a staircase can not only impress the eye, but excite the sense of touch as people move from floor to floor.
SUMMER 2017
STAIRCASES
20-21
STATEMENT STAIRCASES Inspiration from real properties with amazing staircases available through Dexters
Statement staircase directory SPECIALIST ENGINEERS
HISTORICAL IMPACT
This staircase represents early Queen Anne style and reflects the Dutch influence of William of Orange. This was a period in architectural history before the mass development of the Georgian Age, making this atmospheric panelled hall and staircase extremely desirable. Dexters Westminster. 020 7590 9578
SWEEPING STATEMENT
This grand, cantilevered staircase sweeps up from the ground floor to an enfilade of three magnificent entertaining rooms on the first floor of this Westminster house. The neutral wall provides an understated backdrop for this architectural centrepiece. Dexters Westminster. 020 7590 9578
Macspec’s expert engineers and designers are hugely experienced in delivering staircases of complex shapes and structural integrity. Staircases are installed and finished by specialist craftsmen for clients in Ireland and the UK, with a particular focus on high-end central London projects. 028 9756 2591. www.macspec.co.uk
INTERIOR DESIGNERS
Flint London are interior designers with architectural backgrounds and a portfolio including superb staircases. 020 7706 6230. www.flint-london.com
LIGHT SCULPTURES
Spina Design creates spectacular stairwell light sculptures, each crafted to bespoke dimensions, light bulb specifications, crystal colours and metalwork finishes. Spina’s showroom operates by appointment only. 020 7328 5274. www.spinadesign.co.uk
TIMBER HANDRAIL SPECIALISTS
GREAT RESTORATIONS
This stunning staircase is one of the many impressive features of a beautifully restored Grade II Listed Georgian mansion. The property is located in SE24 and set within three acres of landscaped grounds with a picturesque private fishing lake. Dexters Mayfair. 020 7590 9590
LIGHT FANTASTIC
The choice of open treads and transparent material for this statement staircase add to the luxurious sense of space and light within this penthouse in the heart of Chelsea. The property spans in excess of 1,500 sq.ft and is arranged over two floors.
Haldane provides bespoke premium timber handrails, priding itself on attention to detail and the smoothest finish. 01592 775656. www.haldaneuk.com
Dexters Chelsea. 020 7590 9510 dexters.co.uk
SUMMER 2017
PIMLICO
22-23
Elinor Ward’s Pimlico Politicians, parking and penthouses in Westminster’s neighbour Pimlico
Dexters Pimlico’s Lettings Manager Ellie Ward may be young, but she’s been letting some of London’s most spectacular properties for over five years now, working closely with the team at Dexters Westminster. Finish this sentence: you know you’re in Pimlico when…? You’re surrounded by white stucco buildings, boutique cafés and tables out on the street full of people drinking coffee. There are also a lot of MPs around Pimlico due to the proximity to Parliament and many City workers live here thanks to the excellent transport links. Name a shop in your area you couldn’t live without The Roasting (31 Churton Street, SW1) is a boutique Italian coffee shop. You can’t beat it if you’re looking for the perfect pick-me-up in Pimlico. There’s also Grumbles, just a couple of doors down. It’s a wonderful bistro that has been a favourite among locals since it opened in 1964. What’s the outlook for your area? Buyers are increasingly discovering Pimlico. Historically it’s been overlooked in favour of its popular neighbours, like Westminster and Chelsea, but people are flocking to Pimlico now, mostly due to its prime location. Buy-to-let investors should have Pimlico on their radar now – it’s expected to grow in popularity over the next year, thanks in part to the regeneration of Victoria. What do you love most about Pimlico? The quiet residential streets of Pimlico feel safe
and suburban, a rarity for a Zone 1 location. The garden squares, St George’s, Warwick, Eccelston and Bessborough, are also lovely, particularly at this time of year. From Pimlico, you can walk south to the river, or head north to Belgravia or Westminster, meaning some of London’s best-known landmarks are on your doorstep. As you can imagine, penthouses here have some of the best views of the capital!
THE PENTHOUSES HERE HAVE SOME OF THE BEST VIEWS OF THE CAPITAL If there’s one piece of advice I’d give landlords in Pimlico it would be… There is a high level of great stock on the market at the moment, so you really need to give your property some TLC if you want to attract the best tenants. Nowadays, prospective tenants can see up to 20 similar properties, so it’s important yours is wellmaintained to help its desirability factor. Dexters Property Management services can assist with this; the teams manage properties ranging from individual houses to blocks of flats for over 20,000 landlords across London. Why are people attracted to Pimlico? Pimlico is more affordable than Chelsea and is in the cheapest Council Tax borough in London, meaning it’s better value for money
all round. Its central location is a big pull for investors and tenants; Pimlico has second-tonone transport links but locals often find they don’t even need to buy a travelcard as key areas of London are walkable! Its proximity to the Thames also makes for lovely riverside walks. People who drive to work are heading here too – Pimlico sits just outside the congestion zone and is in Parking Zone A, covering Knightsbridge, Belgravia and Pimlico, so you can pop to Harrods for your shopping! What’s your favourite part of the day around this area? Definitely lunchtime. When the sun is shining and people are queuing for food at the local market, Pimlico is at its most bustling. Those who prefer to buy their lunch from one of the many cafés or restaurants sit outside in the sun and those who grab a popular falafel wrap at the market head to one of the garden squares; you almost feel like you’re on holiday!
D
Find Elinor and her team at: Dexters Pimlico 50 Churton Street, London, SW1V 2LP 020 7976 4949
dexters.co.uk
Rachel Patient & Carly Cayser’s City With almost 30 years of experience between them, Rachel and Carly talk property management
Dexters manages properties ranging from individual houses to blocks of flats for over 20,000 landlords across London. Their property managers all have backgrounds in the property sector and know their local area inside out. Working out of 10 London locations, Dexters property managers are never more than 20 minutes away from any of the properties in their portfolio. Rachel Patient is Group Director of Property Management at Dexters and Carly Cayser heads the City of London team. What do you love most about working in property management? Rachel: Property management never sleeps – it’s 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. It’s all go in all of our offices; we’re always out and about around London, carrying out property visits or meeting landlords and tenants – there’s never a dull day! Why do landlords choose to use your services? Carly: Often, investor landlords in the City in particular live overseas and have never even seen their property, having bought off plan. Essentially, we are the landlord’s eyes and ears, from the start of the tenancy right up until the end. We are the tenant’s contact, adviser and partner in caring for the property. Rachel: Finding a great tenant is tricky enough, but then managing a tenanted property successfully is a full-time job. Some landlords concentrate on just the headline rent, but we are focused on getting the best return over a number of years, which is about maintaining full occupancy, making sure there are no arrears and maximising the capital value of the property in the future. It is cost and tax effective to use a good agent. Our fees are tax deductible and we can maintain the property efficiently, allowing landlords to get on with their work and lives. We work in partnership with all our clients and collect our fee on a monthly basis. This reassures the landlord that we’re not going anywhere – we’re in this together! Tell us something we might not know about property management Rachel: Reactive maintenance isn’t all property management is about. We don’t just want a landlord hearing from us when there’s something wrong. By forging long-term relationships with them, we are able to understand their future plans and can provide a bespoke asset management approach, tailoring our service to meet a landlord’s needs. Carly: It involves us building a rapport with our clients and being more proactive than reactive, so a typical day might include advising landlords about refurbishments, carrying out property visits to check and sign off quality of works, meeting landlords and tenants, doing a pre-occupancy check to ensure the property is ready for move-in, accompanying the lettings team on market appraisals or even Skyping an overseas landlord with an update!
dexters.co.uk
Any other reasons why a landlord should use your services? Rachel: One of the main reasons tenants look for a new home or stop paying rent is due to poor property conditions and a lack of maintenance from their landlord. If you employ a managing agent like us to regularly inspect the property and keep it well maintained, you’ll keep your tenants happy with higher levels of occupancy and avoid expensive vacant periods. Carly: You’ll also prevent costly issues from escalating, and, through use of our trusted contractors, you can rest assured that the maintenance and repair work is of a high standard. Dexters has a wide range of reliable and trusted contractors with whom we work alongside, carrying out everything from maintenance to entire refurbishments.
OUR PROPERTY MANAGERS ARE NEVER MORE THAN 20 MINUTES AWAY FROM ANY OF THE PROPERTIES IN THEIR PORTFOLIO Sounds like you’re a very busy department! Do you have time to unwind at the end of the working week? Carly: It’s a fast-paced job in a very exciting part of London. There’s so much to do within a mile of our office – you could head to Brick Lane for a curry or relax at one of the wine bars in Shoreditch. Rachel: Of course! We’re lucky in property management that we get to be out and about in the field, meaning we spot hidden gems in London that others might not! For a special treat though, I love popping to Sushi Samba in Heron Tower for dinner. You can’t beat it for views over the capital.
D
Find Rachel, Carly and their team at: Dexters City 5 Sandy’s Row, London, E1 7HW 020 7590 7290
Warwick Court, WC1R £900,000 - £2,100,000
This collection of apartments has been beautifully restored and is located within a grand Georgian house. Offering a blend of traditional period features and modern day luxuries, showcasing a fusion between contemporary London living and the rich history of its surroundings. Ideally situated for access to Grey’s Inn and just east of Covent Garden. Dexters New Homes Bloomsbury. 55 Coram Street, London, WC1N 1HB T: 020 7833 4466 E: bloomsburysales@dexters.co.uk
Willow Place, SW1P ÂŁ1,150,000 - ÂŁ2,275,000
This boutique development consists of eight luxury apartments, each with air conditioning, underfloor heating and lift access. Located in a quiet enclave of Westminster and well placed for local restaurants, bars and retail outlets. Pimlico and Victoria stations provide excellent transport links and are easily accessible. Dexters New Homes Chelsea. 14 Culford Gardens, London, SW3 2ST T: 020 7590 9510 E: chelseasales@dexters.co.uk
S U M M E R 2 01 7
ST JOHN’S WOOD
28-29
Benjamin Jobbins’ St John’s Wood Community spirit, top schools and an animal or two in popular NW8 Benjamin Jobbins has worked in the North London market for almost a decade. As Sales Director at Dexters St John’s Wood, he sells some of the grandest family homes in the capital.
nine years now and it has remained a popular choice for both local and international buyers. Recently, we’ve found a lot of people jumping a postcode from nearby Marylebone and coming here for similar period homes at more Finish this sentence: You know you’re in St John’s affordable prices. Wood when…? What are the latest homes and interiors trends You’re walking past rows of beautiful boutique shops you are seeing? on the way to Regent’s Park and then hear a Homeowners here tend to be respectful of their squawk from one of the animals in London Zoo! period properties whilst putting their own modern What do you love most about the area? spin on things. There is plenty of garden space in St St John’s Wood really comes into its own at this time John’s Wood, so rear extensions are commonplace of year, with families heading to Regent’s Park or too, with glass box extensions particularly growing in nearby Primrose Hill for picnics. The sense of popularity. community here is unreal; it’s a very social high What are the most popular streets in your area? street, with a lot of families choosing to settle here. Avenue Road, Acacia Road, Hamilton Terrace and If there’s one piece of advice I’d give buyers in St Marlborough Place are especially popular. In many John’s Wood it would be… places you have Regent’s Park at one end of your Take the opportunity to buy now, before the summer road and the busy high street on the other, so you rush. There are a number of excellent schools in NW8 have the best of both worlds! and that plays a big part in many families’ decision Tell us something unusual about your area to move here. I’d recommend looking for your You’ve got a zoo on your doorstep! You could grab perfect home now, as homes get snapped up as a coffee from an independent shop on the chic September draws closer. high street, set off on a stroll and before you know it What’s the outlook for your area? you’re stood outside the giraffe enclosure! It’s There’s a lot of activity in St John’s Wood at the bizarre, but it’s part of what makes St John’s Wood moment. I’ve been in the North London market for so individual.
I’VE WORKED IN THE AREA FOR NINE YEARS AND IT’S ALWAYS POPULAR WITH BOTH LOCAL AND INTERNATIONAL BUYERS
D
Find Benjamin and his team at: Dexters St John’s Wood 4 St Ann’s Terrace, London, NW8 6PJ 020 7483 6300
dexters.co.uk
Coleridge Gardens, SW10 Price On Application
An exceptional six bedroom apartment located within a prestigious Chelsea development. The property has undergone an extensive refurbishment and offers unparalleled entertaining space with the additional benefits of four fabulous terraces and underground parking for three cars. Dexters Chelsea. 14 Culford Gardens, London SW3 2ST T: 020 7590 9510 E: chelseasales@dexters.co.uk
Marvellous
mews Providing oases of tranquillity in the capital, mews properties also boast a fascinating, if chequered, history
L
ONDON’S MEWS HOLD A SPECIAL PLACE IN THE HEARTS OF THOSE WHO LOVE THE CAPITAL. From the colourful cobbled enclaves of Kensington
and Chelsea, to the tranquillity of a Marylebone mews, there is something quintessentially London about these hidden homes. Being both comparatively rare and located in some of the most desirable areas of London, today mews homes are highly prized. This is despite their earlier incarnation as poor relations of the newly-built grand residences of booming 1700s and 1800s London. “Mews houses have become extremely desirable homes for London residents as they now offer ‘freehold’ living for a fraction of the cost of the grand houses they used to serve. Often located away from busy roads and thoroughfares on quaint cobbled mews, they have become known rather more for their ‘chocolate box’ appeal than their previous association with lowly stable blocks,” says Russell Ball, Director at Dexters Mayfair Showroom.
HUMBLE BEGINNINGS Mews homes were originally built as the back-ends of the fine Georgian and Victorian mansions of Westminster and Kensington and Chelsea. Comparatively modest, mews provided stables and servants’ quarters, often taking their names from the fashionable terraces they serviced. While these are humble beginnings, mews properties are ultimately connected to ancient royalty. The Royal Mews at Buckingham Palace evolved from the King’s Mews, which were first constructed during Richard II’s reign from 1377. Buildings were created to house the birds of prey used in falconry, the ancient sport of hunting small wild game or birds with trained birds. During their seasonal moulting or ‘mewing’, the birds would be confined to these ‘mews’. According to the Royal Collection Trust, the original building was destroyed by fire in 1534 and rebuilt as stables, but retained the ‘Mews’ name. CREATING VALUE Mews properties remained under appreciated into the middle of the twentieth century. Some were used by squatters, others as garages, and even mews homes in the chicest areas could be picked up for a pittance. This eventually attracted budding artists and other creative types who ensured the fortunes of the capital’s mews turned again. By the London of the swinging sixties, mews homes were being associated with stylish living. Iconic TV series The Avengers gave debonair leading man Patrick Macnee’s character a mews dexters.co.uk
MEWS PROVIDED STABLES AND SERVANTS’ QUARTERS, OFTEN TAKING THEIR NAMES FROM THE GRAND TERRACES THEY SERVICED
address, while in real life more and more people were recognising the charm and potential of mews properties. Today, while mews are typically in Conservation Areas, few have period features planners need to protect. This means those fortunate enough to buy a slice of hidden history can put their own stamp on these uniquely London treasures: “With the onset of mansard roof extensions and basement digs, the once modest mews house has become a real and viable alternative to large mansion block flats, often with the added bonus of garaging for the exotic car lover,” says Russell.
SUMMER 2017
MAGICAL MEWS
32-33
PROPERTY PORTFOLIO
DEXTERS PICK OF THE MEWS As there are relatively few mews houses, they come to market less frequently. However, as prime Central London specialists, Dexters handles a superb selection of beautiful mews homes. WEYMOUTH MEWS, MARYLEBONE, W1G Recently Sold
This charming, corner aspect mews house is located on the sought after Weymouth Mews. The property has two double bedrooms both with en suite bathrooms, an open plan kitchen/reception room with adjacent south facing balcony and an integral garage. • Two double bedrooms • Two bathrooms • South facing terrace • Flexible living space • Private garage • Cobbled mews
Dexters Marylebone. 020 7224 5544 ST LUKES MEWS, NOTTING HILL, W11 £1,200 pw / £5,200 pcm
A charming three bedroom mews house arranged over three floors. The property has been configured to maximise space and offers two bathrooms, an eat in kitchen and a private roof terrace. Ideally located for access to Portobello Road and Westbourne Grove. • Three double bedrooms • Modern finish • Two bathrooms • Eat in kitchen • Private roof terrace • Sought after location
Dexters Notting Hill. 020 7792 0792 DEVONSHIRE CLOSE, MARYLEBONE, W1G Recently Let
Did you know? Famous mews residents over the decades include the likes of Sir Michael Caine. He once lived on Albion Close near Hyde Park, now one of the few private gated mews in the capital. Francis Bacon, one of the most renowned artists of the last century, famously lived and worked at 7 Reece Mews, South Kensington
from 1961. “The moment I saw this place I knew that I could work here,” Bacon said of his home. The greatest concentration of mews properties in London is in just two boroughs: Westminster and Kensington and Chelsea. In fact, there are very few mews outside of these districts anywhere in the world.
Arranged over three floors and offering spacious accommodation, perfect for entertaining. The property has four well proportioned bedrooms, four bathrooms, an open plan kitchen, integral garage and a private west facing terrace. • Four bedrooms • Four bathrooms • Open plan kitchen/reception • Private roof terrace • Integral garage • Sought after location
Dexters Marylebone. 020 7224 5544
dexters.co.uk
London calling Marcus Ward and his team help international buyers and tenants in their search for property across London
D
EXTERS CURRENTLY HAS OVER 45,000 BUYERS AND TENANTS LOOKING FOR PROPERTY AND TYPICALLY ARRANGE UP TO 30,000 VIEWINGS PER MONTH. Of this number, over 4,000 originate from international or corporate enquiries and it is with these that Marcus Ward and his team specialise. As Marcus, Director of Corporate Lettings and International Relocation, puts it, “We spot individuals, companies, embassies, educational institutions, investors and search agents looking through our 28 offices in Central London and over 60 across London. Most of our buyers, investors and tenants are international, and are searching in several parts of London.”
WE GO ABOVE AND BEYOND TO FIND A PROPERTY THAT SUITS THE NEEDS OF EACH INDIVIDUAL Marcus’ specialist department coordinates all of Dexters resources to take the hassle out of the search for these people, arranging bespoke viewing schedules. “We deliver personal contact and guidance and can provide a chauffeur driven service from a fleet of luxury BMWs,” says Marcus. “Our job is to find them the perfect property, arrange viewings and offer our expert advice, sometimes all in the same day! We make sure we go above and beyond to find a property that suits the needs of each individual.” The service is free and has attracted hundreds of companies who now deal with Dexters exclusively when relocating employees to London. Marcus is particularly proud of how far the department has come since its inception in 2012. “When we first started we were dealing with around 15 enquiries a week and now that number is over 200 per week. The department has gone from strength to strength, with new enquiries coming to us all the time, both from the UK and from all over the world. It’s an exciting team to be a part of - we deal with incredibly busy and successful buyers, tenants and investors, who simply don’t have the time to carry out a London property search on their own.”
IN A TYPICAL WEEK WE DEAL WITH OVER 200 ENQUIRIES FROM AROUND THE WORLD dexters.co.uk
The team deals with individuals, companies and institutions directly so, whilst they work with many search agents, there is often no need for a middle man. The team is in constant contact with the Dexters network of offices across London, ensuring that properties are put in front of prospective tenants to suit their needs. As Marcus says, “Our reach across London is outstanding. We have a wonderful selection of property and most of our buyers and tenants don’t need to go anywhere else.”
JUST THIS WEEK WE HAVE DEALT WITH BUYERS LOOKING TO PURCHASE PROPERTY FOR ANYTHING BETWEEN £2 MILLION AND £40 MILLION Top quality corporate tenants continue to compete for the best properties. Dexters worked with over 10,000 corporate tenants last year, resulting in excellent long-term tenancies. Dexters offices are also routinely dealing with thousands of professional tenants looking for property, and, naturally, they want to find the very best tenants for their landlords.
OUR REACH ACROSS LONDON IS OUTSTANDING - OUR BUYERS AND TENANTS DON’T NEED TO GO ANYWHERE ELSE “During the summer months we see hundreds of buyers and investors and literally thousands of tenants,” explains Marcus. “As well as the property that we market, we also have hundreds of “off-market” properties for sale and to let and we are able to give buyers and tenants access to these. We work closely with our Mayfair Private Clients Team and just this past week we have shown “off-market” property to over 20 buyers who are viewing properties anywhere in the price range of £2 million to over £40 million.” The diversity of the department makes for an exciting work day. “No two days are the same” says Marcus. “One day you could be finding a swanky Chelsea pad for the CEO of a major oil and gas company and the next day you could be helping a young graduate find their first flat in London. The most satisfying part of being in our Corporate Lettings and
Marcus Ward, Director of Corporate Lettings and International Relocation. Photographed at Dexters Private Clients Offices in Mayfair.
International Relocation team has to be when you do such a good job finding investments for people or placing a company’s employees that we become the sole agent dealing with all their purchasing and relocation needs. Of course, this just makes the process so much smoother for all involved. We are seeing this happen increasingly, so we must be doing something right!” As London’s leading independent Estate Agent Dexters has London covered. If you are looking to rent a property to a blue chip tenant or looking to sell a property either fully on the market or quietly “off-market” in London then Dexters are keen to speak to you. Dexters Corporate Lettings and International Relocation Team in Mayfair coordinates the work of Dexters’ 28 Central London offices and over 60 offices across London. They make searches fast and effective, providing invaluable advice and assistance. Across the company Dexters employees speak a combined 22 languages, so the chances are they will be able to help buyers and tenants, wherever they come from.
D
For Corporate Lettings & International Relocation enquiries, contact Dexters Mayfair 66 Grosvenor Street, London, W1K 3JL 020 7483 6399
A BRIEF INSIGHT INTO DEXTERS CORPORATE LETTINGS & INTERNATIONAL RELOCATION
e spot individuals, companies, embassies, W educational institutions, investors and search agents looking through our 28 offices in London and over 60 across London, many of whom are searching in several parts of town. e take the hassle out of the search for W them by coordinating all our resources and arranging bespoke viewing schedules. e provide personal contact and guidance W and can provide a chauffeur driven service from a fleet of luxury BMWs. he service is free and has attracted T hundreds of companies who now deal with us exclusively when relocating employees to London.
dexters.co.uk
Lower Thames Street, EC3R
ÂŁ2,950 per week / ÂŁ12,783 per month This beautiful three bedroom penthouse apartment has 24 hour concierge, uninterrupted views of both the River Thames and some of London best known landmarks. There are three bathrooms, floor to ceiling windows, a private wrap around terrace and on site gym facilities. Dexters City. 5 Sandys Row, London E1 7HW T: 020 7392 9111 E: citylettings@dexters.co.uk
Old Brompton Road, SW7
ÂŁ2,250 per week / ÂŁ9,750 per month This open plan, loft style apartment is perfect for entertaining. With a spacious reception room and feature fireplace, three bedrooms, three bathrooms and kitchen with breakfast bar. It is located within half a mile of both Gloucester Road and South Kensington tube stations. Dexters South Kensington. 144 Old Brompton Road, London SW7 4NR T: 020 7244 7711 E: southkensingtonlettings@dexters.co.uk
Summer delights Dexters pick of London’s hottest rooftop bars and restaurants you must visit this summer!
BOUNDARY ROOFTOP E2
With three award-wining restaurants and bars, a British food store and art galore, this Shoreditch warehouse conversion is the perfect blend of old and new. Though best known for its bespoke guest rooms, Boundary’s rooftop bar and heated orangery is also increasingly popular. 2-4 Boundary Street, London, E2 7DD. 020 7729 1051. boundary.london
COQ D’ARGENT EC2R
Heated rooftop garden and French brasserie rolled into one, Coq d’Argent serves seasonal produce right in the heart of the City. Popular with City workers and children alike (their children’s menu includes artisanal charcuterie and sirloin steak) Coq d’Argent oozes sophistication and is in a prime location, right beside Bank station. No.1 Poultry, London, EC2R 8EJ. 020 7395 5000. coqdargent.co.uk
MADISON EC4M
Madison is perched on the Penthouse of One New Change, meaning its terrace offers envy-inducing Instagrams of St Paul’s Cathedral. A year-round hotspot, Madison provides heaters and ambient lighting in the winter and Mediterranean sun traps in the summer. One New Change, London, EC4M 9AF. 020 3693 5160. madisonlondon.net
dexters.co.uk
SUMMER 2017
BABYLON W8
240 Regent Street, London, W1B 3BR. 020 7478 0545. aquaspirit.co.uk
99 Kensington High Street, London, W8 5SA. 020 7937 7994.
High Street Kensington’s Babylon, with its views over the Roof Gardens, offers seasonal, contemporary British menus. Don’t fancy food? You can enjoy a Green Eyed Margarita – fresh avocado muddled with ginger and tequila - on Babylon Terrace.
OXO BRASSERIE SE1
Perhaps the most famous on this list thanks to its simple yet effective name, Sky Garden is 155 metres up, meaning it offers views far beyond London. The dome, located at 20 Fenchurch Street, is home to three storeys of public gardens and private observation decks, as well as its popular roof terrace.
Open til late, with live music throughout the weekend, OXO Tower Brasserie seems like it never sleeps! With an extensive vegetarian and vegan menu, reasonably priced children’s offerings and fan favourite ‘Not Afternoon Tea’ (spoiler alert – it involves booze), there’s something for everyone at this South Bank spot.
1 Sky Garden Walk, London, EC3M 8AF. 020 7337 2344. skygarden.london
Bargehouse Street, SE1 9PH. 020 7803 3888. oxotowerrestaurant.com
RUMPUS ROOM AT MONDRIAN LONDON SE1
38-39
AQUA SPIRIT W1B
This glitzy rooftop champagne bar in Soho hosts DJs every weekend whilst revellers take in the views of Regent Street, the London Eye and Mayfair. Set atop the former Dickens & Jones, Aqua Spirit is home to both a Spanish restaurant and a Japanese restaurant.
SKY GARDEN EC3M
DEXTERS DINING
SUSHI SAMBA EC2N
A unique blend of Japanese, Brazilian and Peruvian cuisine (yes, really!) keeps the bookings list for Sushi Samba full – Londoners just can’t get enough. Located on the 38th and 39th floors at 110 Bishopsgate with 360 degree views of the City, Sushi Samba is home to the highest outdoor dining terraces in Europe. Overlooking London with floor to ceiling glass on three sides, the views are unparalleled. 110 Bishopsgate, London, EC2N 4AY. 020 3640 7330. sushisamba.com
RADIO ROOFTOP BAR WC2R
Now open for the summer, expect lush greenery and iconic views all day long at the Rumpus Room. With a brand new food and drinks menu for 2017 and live music every week, this glamorous South Bank spot exudes both energy and class.
Tapas with a view. Radio, located on London’s Strand, offers spectacular views of Trafalgar Square, the London Eye, London Bridge, Covent Garden and St Paul’s Cathedral. A wide variety of signature tapas dishes are served until late; a perfect setting for watching the sunset.
20 Upper Ground, London SE1 9PD. 020 3747 1063. morganshotelgroup.com
ME London, 336-337 Strand, WC2R 1HA. 020 7395 3440. radiorooftop.com
dexters.co.uk
Park Walk, SW10 ÂŁ4,500,000
This charming four bedroom Georgian house is located on a pretty tree lined street between the King’s Road and Fulham Road. Offering a modern kitchen, an elegant reception room with south west facing balcony and a further family room which could be used as a study/occasional bedroom. There is a private garden and garage. Dexters Chelsea. 14 Culford Gardens, London SW3 2ST T: 020 7590 9510 E: chelseasales@dexters.co.uk
Princedale Road, W11 ÂŁ4,750,000
Arranged over three floors, this attractive four/five bedroom family home is located in the heart of Holland Park. Offering three bathrooms, two reception rooms and an eat in kitchen, impressive glass atrium and a private roof terrace. Princedale Road is under half a mile from Holland Park tube station. Dexters Notting Hill. 121 Notting Hill Gate, London W11 3LB T: 020 7243 4500 E: nottinghillsales@dexters.co.uk
The great
Outdoors
The latest design-led outdoor kitchens and furniture can transform your garden, and your social life
T
HE IDEA OF THE GARDEN AS ANOTHER ROOM IS WELL-ESTABLISHED. But the latest innovations and trends can take your outdoor spaces to the next level. These six insider insights on luxury living al fresco will make your outdoors truly great. KNOW YOUR MATERIALS The cutting-edge design and luxe finishes of the outdoor furnishings in Go Modern’s King’s Road showroom mean some people struggle to believe they’re built for the elements. Premium outdoor furnishing brands such as Manutti use fabrics with the same high-tech credentials as materials used in super yachts. Cushions are made from quick-drying foam with welded seams to prevent water penetration. Strong rust-proof frames are made from powder-coated or anodised aluminium. “To invest in designs that withstand our often harsh Northern hemisphere climate, it’s worth carefully researching what you are buying. Find out if the fabric fades under strong UV light. If rainwater does get into cushions, how quickly do they dry? How does water drain away from the structure of a design?” Go Modern director Tina Mahony advises buyers.
dexters.co.uk
SUMMER 2017
DEXTERS INTERIORS
42-43
The Lapa Company and Fire Magic
Manutti, Air Medium Garden Corner Sofa
Modern outdoor kitchens boast clean lines and designs that keep the cook at the heart of the party
FOCUS AND FUNCTION “Outdoor kitchens used to include side burners and wine fridges, but now people want a space that’s a focal point for entertaining, not just somewhere to cook,” says Joni Beal of The Lapa Company, exclusive distributors of premium outdoor kitchen specialist Fire Magic. Practically, this mean the latest kitchens include everything required to prepare, finish and eat food in stylish and practical environments. Appliances, sinks, cutlery and warming drawers, as well as seating areas are all becoming standard. Outdoor kitchens incorporating bar stools are proving particularly popular at the moment. Kitchen designs that allow party hosts to cook while being at the heart of the action are now among the modern garden must-haves.
DEVIL IN THE DETAIL As Mahony suggests, the finest outdoor furniture is defined by high spec materials, but also the design details that make pieces both beautiful and durable. For example, this Manutti Air Wooden Garden Table uses iroko, a very solid type of hardwood which is extremely resilient to outdoor conditions. Here, the wood is cut and arranged into lengths to create the table top, meaning any surface water quickly drains away and won’t just sit on the surface. The frame is made from hard-wearing powder-coated aluminium which is deployed in a gently curving shape. These contours are designed to deliver both a stylish silhouette and make it easier to clean off any seasonal debris. ESCAPE FROM THE COUNTRY Joni says current themes are about clean lines, using materials like stainless steel, rather than creating cooking preparation zones with a rustic look. “People are less interested in creating a country kitchen feel. Today, it’s much more about design-led looks that provide a real centrepiece to an outdoor area.” says Joni.
SMALL CAN BE BEAUTIFUL You don’t always need a large outside space to create a garden kitchen with impact. For example, Samuele Mazza creates free-standing island kitchens with integrated sliding tables. Available at the brand’s UK showroom, Belgravia Interior Boutique, it combines contemporary glamour with a compact design.
GET THE GLOW Opting for a state-of-the-art outdoor fireplace, such as Samuele Mazza’s Canopo Bioethanol Fireplace can transform the ambiance of an outdoor space instantly. Functional pieces such as this can update an outdoor room instantly, with the added benefit of not producing ash or other residues, making maintenance straightforward. dexters.co.uk
Anderson Street, SW3
£2,450 per week / £10,617 per month Tucked away just off the King’s Road is this wonderful Grade II Listed townhouse. The property has undergone complete refurbishment yet retains original features with sash windows, Victorian shutters and cast iron fireplaces. There is a private rear garden and a detached garage. Dexters Chelsea. 14 Culford Gardens, London SW3 2ST T: 020 7590 9500 E: chelseasales@dexters.co.uk
Upper Grosvenor Street, W1K £2,950 per week / £12,783 per month
This newly refurbished, three bedroom apartment is set over the first and second floors of a popular 24 hour portered building in the heart of Mayfair. Upper Grosvenor Street is one of the area’s most sought after addresses and is ideally situated for access to the surrounding boutiques and restaurants of Mayfair. Dexters Mayfair. 66 Grosvenor Street, London W1K 3JL T: 020 7590 9595 E: mayfairlettings@dexters.co.uk
Dexters dozen Our pick of London’s best markets From Borough to Broadway, vintage to vinyl, London’s plethora of vibrant markets offer something to suit every visitor’s taste and style.
CAMDEN LOCK MARKET
This iconic retail destination is packed with traders selling vintage fashion, handmade jewellery and oodles of pop culture memorabilia. Head to Camden Market if you’re after one-of-a-kind finds. Camden Lock Place, NW1 8AF. www.camdenmarket.com dexters.co.uk
MALTBY STREET MARKET
GREENWICH MARKET
EXMOUTH MARKET
Ropewalk, Southwark, SE1 3PA. www.maltby.st
Greenwich Market, SE10 9HZ. www.greenwichmarketlondon.com
Exmouth Market, EC1R 4QE. www.exmouth.london
One of London’s newest markets, Maltby Street is a popular weekend destination thanks to its charming character and fantastic selection of artisan food and drink created by specialists.
London’s only historic market set within a World Heritage site, Greenwich is full of independent boutiques selling arts, crafts and antiques. Its continental food court is a must-see.
Full of stalls selling everything from pizza and sushi to pottery and jewellery, this Clerkenwell gem has a unique feeling of a village, making it an enjoyable escape for the city mice of London.
SUMMER 2017
DEXTERS DOZEN
46-47
OLD SPITALFIELDS MARKET
BRICK LANE MARKET
16 Horner Square, E1 6EW. www.oldspitalfieldsmarket.com
91 Brick Lane, E1 6QR. www.bricklanemarket.com
COLUMBIA ROAD FLOWER MARKET
PORTOBELLO ROAD MARKET
For something a little different, head to Colombia Road on a Sunday, when the street is full of beautiful, blooming flowers. Composed of 60 independent shops, including delis, art galleries and clothing stores, colourful Colombia Road’s sense of fun is contagious.
Arguably the best known street market in the world, Portobello Road Market is loved by locals and tourists alike. Pop by on a Saturday, when the market is at full capacity, take a leisurely stroll past the vintage fashion stalls and grab a bite to eat at one of the delicious street food stands.
Columbia Road, E2 7RG. www.columbiaroad.info
Portobello Road, W10 5TA. www.portobelloroad.co.uk
One of the best examples of Victorian market halls in London, Old Spitalfields Market is right around the corner from Liverpool Street station. Open every day of the week, the vendors flog vintage antiques, clothes and art as well as collectable vinyl.
Head here on a Sunday, when the streets are lined with people selling second-hand wares and young Londoners queue at authentic Jewish bagel shops and renowned Bangladeshi curry houses. Street performers enhance the market’s energetic atmosphere.
COVENT GARDEN
A tourist hotspot, Covent Garden actually boasts three markets. Open every day of the week, East Colonnade Market is probably the most famous, with its variety of stalls selling everything from soap and handbags to handmade clothing and homeware. Jubilee Market’s stalls change daily and the Apple Market sells Britishmade crafts and goods. Market Building, WC2E 8RD. www.coventgarden.london
SOUTH BANK CENTRE MARKET
Book lovers of London rejoice – South Bank Centre Book Market is open every day, below Waterloo Bridge. One of the only outdoor second-hand book markets in London, you’ll find classics and contemporaries, hardbacks and comics. Take your time browsing and hang around South Bank for the day; it also has some of the best street food in the capital. Belvedere Road, SE1 8XX. www.southbankcentre.co.uk
BROADWAY MARKET
This shopping street in the heart of Hackney, once an old drovers’ route into the city, has been open since 1890. Though in an ideal location to declare itself a ‘proper East London market,’ Broadway Market has undergone incredibly successful gentrification over the past decade. Full of independent pubs and cafés, Broadway Market is foodie heaven.
A favourite source of both British and international produce, Borough Market is London’s most renowned food and drink market. At 1,003 years old, the market hasn’t lost its charm, with millions of visitors a year. Navigate its warren of passageways and pick up the usual food market staples as well as an eclectic blend of international produce.
Broadway Market, E8 4QJ. www.broadwaymarket.co.uk
8 Southwark Street, SE1 1TL. www.boroughmarket.org.uk
BOROUGH MARKET
dexters.co.uk
S U M M E R 2 01 7
HIDDEN GEMS
48
Dexters hidden gems Need inspiration for picnics in the park? See our guide of glorious gardens and delicious delis
Secret Gardens PHOENIX GARDEN
This community garden is managed by volunteers who take innovative approaches to wildlife gardening to create havens and habitats for a variety of flora and fauna. Stacey Street, WC2H 8DG. www.thephoenixgarden.org
BROWN HART GARDENS
Billed as an ‘oasis’ in the heart of London, Brown Hart Gardens is home to lush planters, a raised terraced garden and a tranquil water feature. Visitors can enjoy their lunch in peaceful surroundings. Brown Hart Gardens, W1K 6JQ. www.grosvenor.com
MOUNT STREET GARDENS
Open to the public, this tropical garden is tucked away in a quiet pocket of Mayfair. The secluded location has an unusually warm micro-climate, allowing plants to flourish all year round.
POSTMAN’S PARK
Just north of St Paul’s Cathedral, nestled between the towering buildings of the City, you’ll find Postman’s Park, a remnant of Victorian London.
ABNEY PARK CEMETERY
South Audley Street, W1K 2TH. www.myparks.westminster.gov.uk
King Edward Street, EC1A. www.postmanspark.org.uk
Stoke Newington High Street, N16 0LH. www.abneypark.org
One of London’s Magnificent Seven cemeteries, there’s no better place to sit and appreciate London’s multicultural history than in Hackney’s Abney Park. The historic 18th Century parkland was the first nondenominational garden cemetery in Europe.
Delectable Delis MOUNT STREET DELI
ITALO DELICATESSEN
100 Mount St, Mayfair, W1K 2TG. www.themountstreetdeli.co.uk/
Onnington Square, SW8 1TE. www.italodeli.co.uk
HOLBORN DELICATESSEN
OTTOLENGHI
This iconic family-run deli is in the heart of Soho, selling outstanding Italian meats, cheeses, pastas and breads. Lina is also one of the best places in London to buy truffles in season.
This deli serves pastries, soups, sandwiches and hot drinks. Pop by between 3pm and 6pm weekdays, where the deli is transformed into a boutique wine, cheese and chocolate shop.
18 Brewer St, Soho, W1F 0SH. www.linastores.co.uk
252 High Holborn, WC1V 7EN. www.holborndiningroom.com/deli
50 Artillery Lane, E1 7LJ. www.ottolenghi.co.uk
Set in a beautifully converted Victorian building in the centre of Mayfair, Mount Street Deli serves gourmet breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea.
LINA STORES
dexters.co.uk
A delicatessen on the corner of a picturesque square in Vauxhall, Italo sells handmade Italian dishes and has space for its loyal customers to stop for a coffee and a catch-up.
With a pack-to-order service for busy Londoners on the go or table service for those with time on their hands, this deli has something for everyone. Just don’t leave without trying one of the pastries!
Woodstock Mews, W1G
£1,650 per week / £7,150 per month This charming two bedroom, two bathroom mews house has a modern finish throughout. The property is arranged over three floors with an open plan kitchen/dining area and a fantastic reception room, perfect for both family living and entertainment purposes. The property has a garage, ample storage space and a central location, moments from an array of shops, bars and restaurants. Dexters Marylebone. 55 Weymouth Street, London, W1G 8NJ T: 020 7224 5544 E: marylebonesales@dexters.co.uk
Islington
St John’s Wood Maida Vale
Bloomsbury
Shoreditch Clerkenwell
Paddington
Fitzrovia City
Marylebone Covent Garden
Bayswater
Mayfair
Notting Hill
Tower Bridge
Kensington Kensington High Street
Knightsbridge & South Kensington
Westminster
London Bridge
South Kensington Earls Court
Chelsea
Pimlico Vauxhall Kennington
Fulham Battersea
With 28 offices in Central London and over 60 across London, Dexters is London’s leading Independent Estate Agency. Clapham High Street Putney
CENTRAL East Putney
LONDON OFFICES
Clapham
Dexters Battersea Wimbledon 137 Lavender Hill, London, SW11 5QJ Sales: 020 7350 1200 Wimbledon South Lettings: 020 7350 1300
Dexters City Clapham 5 Sandy’s Row, London, E1 7HW Sales: 020 7392 9155 Lettings: 020 7392 9111
Dexters Bayswater 17 Craven Terrace, London, W2 3QH Sales: 020 7821 6789 Lettings: 020 7402 4722
Dexters Clerkenwell 1 Britton Street, London, EC1M 5NW Sales: 020 7483 6369 Lettings: 020 7483 6370
Dexters Bloomsbury 55 Coram Street, London, WC1N 1HB Sales: 020 7833 4466 Lettings: 020 7833 4488 Dexters Chelsea 14 Culford Gardens, London, SW3 2ST Sales: 020 7590 9510 Lettings: 020 7590 9500
South Dexters Fitzrovia/Soho
66 Goodge Street, London, W1T 4NG Sales: 020 7067 2401 Lettings: 020 7067 2402
Dexters Kensington High Street 1 Campden Hill Road, London, W8 7DU Sales: 020 7590 9560 Lettings: 020 7590 9565
Dexters Fulham 569 Fulham Road, London, SW6 1ES Streatham Sales: 020 7386 5386 Lettings: 020 7386 7386
Dexters Kennington 323 Kennington Road, London, SE11 4QE Sales: 020 7650 5102 Lettings: 020 7650 5103
Dexters Covent Garden 22 Great Queen Street, London, WC2B 5BH Sales: 020 7067 2424 Lettings: 020 7067 2400
Dexters Islington 76 Upper Street, London, N1 0NU Sales: 020 7483 6373 Lettings: 020 7483 6374
Dexters Knightsbridge 29 Harrington Road, London, SW7 3HD Sales: 020 7838 0108 Lettings: 020 7838 1888
Dexters Earls Court 3 Hogarth Place, London, SW5 0QT Sales: 020 7370 7373 Lettings: 020 7370 3030
Dexters Kensington 64 Kensington Church Street, London, W8 4DB Sales: 020 7067 2430 Lettings: 020 7067 2434
Dexters London Bridge 54 Borough High Street, London, SE1 1XL Sales: 020 7650 5100 Lettings: 020 7650 5101
Call 7 days a week 8am - 8pm.
Office Directory MAYFAIR SHOWROOM Dexters Mayfair Showroom 66 Grosvenor Street, London, W1K 3JL Sales: 020 7590 9590 Lettings: 020 7590 9595
OUR SERVICES - Estate Agents and Chartered Surveyors - Sales and Lettings - New Homes - Land and Development - Investments - Corporate and International Services - Property and Block Management - Professional Valuation Services - Financial Services - Leasehold Extensions
Dexters Maida Vale 125 Shirland Road, London, W9 2EP Sales: 020 7266 2020 Lettings: 020 7266 2021
Dexters Paddington/Hyde Park 1 Spring Street, London, W2 3RA Sales: 020 7298 1550 Lettings: 020 7298 1560
Dexters South Kensington 144 Old Brompton Road, London, SW7 4NR Sales: 020 7373 8883 Lettings: 020 7244 7711
Dexters Marylebone 55 Weymouth Street, London, W1G 8NJ Sales: 020 7224 5544 Lettings: 020 7224 5545
Dexters Pimlico 50 Churton Street, London, SW1V 2LP Sales: 020 7976 4949 Lettings: 020 7976 5200
Dexters Tower Bridge 50 Shad Thames, London, SE1 2LY Sales: 020 7650 5104 Lettings: 020 7650 5105
Dexters Mayfair 66 Grosvenor Street, London, W1K 3JL Sales: 020 7590 9590 Lettings: 020 7590 9595
Dexters Shoreditch 60 Charlotte Road, London, EC2A 3QT Sales: 020 7483 6371 Lettings: 020 7483 6372
Dexters Vauxhall/Nine Elms 377 Kennington Lane, London, SE11 5QY Sales: 020 7793 0111 Lettings: 020 7793 8111
Dexters Notting Hill 121 Notting Hill Gate, London, W11 3LB Sales: 020 7243 4500 Lettings: 020 7792 0792
Dexters St John’s Wood 4 St Ann’s Terrace, London, NW8 6PJ Sales: 020 7483 6300 Lettings: 020 7483 6330
Dexters Westminster/St James’s Park 12 Greycoat Place, London, SW1P 1SB Sales: 020 7590 9578 Lettings: 020 7590 9579
Find details of all our offices at dexters.co.uk
London’s leading Independent Estate Agency 28 offices in Central London and over 60 across London.
Mayfair Showroom 66 Grosvenor Street, W1