South West Residents' Journal (BBCW) February 2016 by Runwild Media Group

FEBRUAR Y 20 16 â&#x20AC;˘ I ssUe 3 6

London property

We highly value your feedback: contact@residentsjournal.co.uk or 020 7987 4320

w w w. R e s i d e n t s J o urna l . c o . u k (020) 7987 4320

Proudly published by

RUNWILD MEDIA GROUP

Residential Sales Lettings & Developments I Property Management Corporate Services I Professional Valuations I Asset Management

Dear Resident, First and foremost, thank you to our loyal readers who have emailed, telephoned or written in to tell us how much you like our smaller size and 2016 redesign. Your comments are very much appreciated. As always, we have some wonderful articles lined up for you in this issue. Francesca Lee speaks to renowned chef Michel Roux Jr about key milestones, his Clapham cookery school and how underground farming could potentially be the next big thing. Read all about it and why he loves south west London from page 12. Elsewhere, Amanda Stücklin meets design duo Maggie and Louis Calmels who have lived in the area for over 20 years. From setting up shop to creating pieces for the West End, they are truly inspirational (page 18). Along with our news, reviews and property there’s plenty to get stuck into this month. Don’t forget to keep your comments coming by emailing contacts@residentsjournal.co.uk.

COVER: Battersea Art Station exhibition, turn to page four for more information © Charlie Round-Turner

Managing Editor Francesca Lee

Senior Designer Daniel Poole

Editorial Assistant Emily Adams

Publishing Director Giles Ellwood

Editor-in-Chief Lesley Ellwood

Executive Director Sophie Roberts

Managing Director Eren Ellwood

Client Relationship Manager Friday Dalrymple

General Manager Fiona Fenwick

Sales Executives Joe Rutherford Kate Emmett Production Hugo Wheatley Jamie Steele Danny Lesar Alice Ford

Distributed to selected homes in the Borough of Battersea, Balham, Clapham and Wandsworth, The Journal is a platform for locals to discuss issues and events that matter. Please do not hesitate to get in contact with your news; Email: contact@residentsjournal.co.uk and Twitter users, make sure you follow us @BBCW_RJ Members of the Professional Publishers Association

BATTERSEA Fun fitness

Work of art

Young people living in Battersea, aged 14 to 25, will get the chance to try out a wide variety of sports thanks to a three-year programme and £150,000 grant from Sport England. From boot camp classes and basketball to dance and athletics, the programme will encourage young people to try something new, make friends, get fit and have fun. wandsworth.gov.uk

Local charities Beatbox Academy, Theatre503 and World Heart Beat Music Academy are benefitting from a total of £18,000 split between them following the Battersea Art Station exhibition. Nearly 300 pieces of art were sold at Battersea Arts Centre, with 20 per cent of these sales going to the three local charities, helping them to extend their current programmes and classes to reach and support more people. batterseapowerstation.co.uk/artstation

notebook

Keep your finger on the pulse with our round-up of local news

Lumley on libraries Campaigners against plans to close and transform half of the libraries in the area have been joined by Joanna Lumley. The Absolutely Fabulous actress, who lives near Tate South Lambeth Library, one of the libraries involved has given her thoughts on the plans saying, “I joined the campaign partly because one of the greatest joys in my life is reading.” The plans were prompted by government cuts to the council’s funding of £200m by March 2016. Tate South Lambeth Library, 180 South Lambeth Road, SW8 1QP, 020 7926 0705, tatesouthlambethfriends.org

Developing discounts The ongoing redevelopment of Battersea Power Station has now taken a new turn, with affordable homes being built as part of the regeneration, and let at discounts of up to 70 per cent of market rates. A legal agreement has been signed by Wandsworth Council and Battersea Power Station Development Company that will see almost 400 homes available below market value. Of these, 258 will be available for rent, while the remaining houses will be for Wandsworth residents to buy at a reduced price. wandsworth.gov.uk

CLAPHAM & BALHAM

[LOCAL INTEREST]

Dance the night away

Wilde about theatre

They say it takes two to tango, but we suggest you find out for yourself at the Omnibus for its alternative Valentine’s evening of music and dance. Hosted by DJ Tony Walker, the theatre will be transformed into a dancefloor where tango fans can brush up on their skills with the help of professional teachers and then enjoy an evening of social dancing, which we are reliably informed is called ‘milonga’. £15, £10 dance only, 7pm, 13 February, 1 Clapham Common Northside, SW4 0QW, 020 7498 4699, omnibus-clapham.org

Back on track

Tabitha Johnston

Back in 2015, Tabitha Johnston, a Clapham resident and former City analyst said goodbye to the hustle and bustle of central London and set up a health food stall inside a horsebox. The Neigh Horsebox, which sold juices and superfoods, was starting to take off as a business when it was sadly stolen. Tabitha started a Kickstarter page to raise money for another trailer and has managed to raise the full £7,000 target. She’ll be back trading in London from May and at festivals across the UK this summer. Good luck Tabitha! neighltd.com

Balham’s very own awardwinning theatre group, Southside Players, will be taking to the stage to perform one of Oscar Wilde’s greatest works, The Importance of Being Earnest. Director Anne Chester has updated the comical, witty farce about two men who get tangled up in their own web of lies by bringing it into the Edwardian era. Established 25 years ago, Southside Players now boasts more than 60 members and stages three main productions a year, as well as hosting lots of social events. £10, concessions £7.50, 17-20 February, Chestnut Grove Theatre at Chestnut Grove Academy, Chesnut Grove, SW12 8JZ, 07914 657 524, southsideplayers.org.uk

In full flight Flight Centre First and Business has recently moved to Northcote Road. The travel agency, which specialises in flights and holidays, has just opened its new store with a brand new design that will inspire travel ideas with its unique holiday ranges. General manager Nathalie Adams says: “There are so many insider tips that you wouldn’t be aware of when you book online.” From beach escapes to ultimate tailor-made journeys, we’re already thinking about booking our next luxury break. 14-16 Northcote Road, SW11 1NX, 0808 278 1710, flightcentre.co.uk

[LOCAL INTEREST]

WANDSWORTH

Open sesame! Christmas may be long gone, but it seems panto season is still in full swing in Wandsworth as the Magdalene Players present their 100th production Ali Baba and the 100 Thieves. The annual pantomime is back for the 37th year in a row and the classic story involving 40 thieves has been adapted by David Ashton and Daniel Hewitt. Expect all your favourite characters, including the pantomime dame Barbara Bubblebottom and Fido the Camel. £10, concessions £8, see website for times, 4-7 February, St Mary Magdalene Church Hall, Trinity Road, SW17 7HP, 07535 925 268, magplayers.org.uk

Planes, trains and automobiles

Honourable mention The New Year’s Honours list holds some familiar local faces this year. Congratulations class of 2016!

TfL has provided Wandsworth Council with £3.2m of funding to help improve transport services and local streets. The multi-million pound funding from the Local Implementation Plan will make a long list of potential development plans possible, and they will now be explored to decide which will prove most realistic and beneficial for residents. tfl.co.uk

Councillor Kathy Tracey will be awarded an OBE for her services to local government, having held several cabinet positions in her career, from regeneration and community safety to education and children’s services. Councillor Martin Johnson, one of the borough’s longest serving councillors and two-time former Mayor, will be awarded an MBE, also for his services to local government. Jane Pettigrew is a leading authority on the production and history of the nation’s favourite drink: tea. She is to be recognised for her services to the industry with a British Empire Medal. Councillor Marie Hanson, a Conservative member of Wandsworth Council, will receive an MBE as recognition for setting up and continuing to work with the charity STORM (Support, Trust, Opportunity, Rebuilding and Motivation). gov.uk

Warming weather Channel 5’s very own weather presenter Sian Welby is trying to brighten up the weather by helping launch the Winter Warmer campaign in Wandsworth. The movement aims to help more than 600 vulnerable elderly and disabled people by offering advice and support, as well as handing out packs containing soup, blankets, gloves, scarves and duvets. The project is run by the Leonard Cheshire Disability charity in partnership with Age UK Wandsworth, the council’s public health department, and the police and fire services, as well as being backed by the Wimbledon Foundation. leonardcheshire.org

ClaraBee SW Mag_AW2.pdf

23/11/2015

16:26

REFURBISHMENT SPECIALISTS

PROCESS COMPLIANCE

ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN

PROJECT MANAGEMENT

INTERIOR DESIGN

TENDER PROCESS

CREATE BEAUTIFUL DESIGN INSIDE AND OUT Practical Support Services to transform your home CONSTRUCTION AND EXTENSIONS Project Preparation, Scoping and Budgeting Planning and Regulatory Compliance Architecture; Structural Engineering and Party Wall Contractor Selection Project Management INTERIOR DESIGN Design and Home Styling Colours, Materials and Furnishing Project Selection and Sourcing Project Management

07974 759 428 | clara@clarabee.com | www.clarabee.com

In full swing

All aboard

FEB

Step aboard 20 the Battersea Barge for an evening in aid of charity Educate the World. Its first Supporters Dinner will give guests a drinks reception on the upper deck, followed by the chance to listen to some live entertainment, from sopranos Scarlett Quigley and Joanna Forest, while enjoying a three-course meal. The charity has chosen to create a ‘Titanic on the Thames’ theme (minus the iceberg and dramatic finale), so get ready to dress up and dance the night away. £49, 7-11pm, The Battersea Barge, Nine Elms Lane, SW8 5BP, 020 7498 0004, batterseabarge.com

FEB

It doesn’t matter if 19 you’re a dancefloor diva or you’ve got two left feet, The Bedford wants you to dust off your dancing shoes and swing in to action at its Jumpin’! Vintage Dance Night. The night kicks off with a beginners’ swing dance lesson to get your feet moving in the right direction, followed by live music for you to test out your new moves to. There’ll even be top swing DJs spinning 1930-50s swing and R’n’B tracks. £15, 8pm, The Bedford, 77 Bedford Hill, SW12 9HD, 020 8682 8940, thebedford. co.uk / swingland.com

FEB

EVENTS FACE THE MUSIC

FEB

The One Billion 7-14 Rising Festival is a mass action event created to end violence against women in history and it’s returning for its fourth year at The Bread & Roses Theatre. The eight-day campaign features performances, workshops, talks and exhibitions, which set out to inform and encourage people to stand up and demand an end to injustices to women. There’ll be a mix of poetry, comedy, readings and dramatic performances. See website for dates and times, The Bread & Roses Theatre, 68 Clapham Manor Street, SW4 6DZ, breadandrosestheatre.co.uk / obrfestival.uk

[LOCAL INTEREST] GO FIGURE

FEB

For three whole days, London 16-18 Fine Art Studios is on hand to help you perfect your drawing skills using a life model. You’ll learn about classical drawing methods so that you understand how to see and replicate proportion and gesture, as well as develop your skills working with charcoal. Once you’ve mastered that, you’ll move onto using oils and full colour palettes until you’re almost as good as Picasso himself. £210, February Figure Workshop, London Fine Art Studios, 146 Battersea Business Centre, 99-109 Lavender Hill, SW11 5QL, 07762 892 987, londonfineartstudios.com

CALENDAR A selection of the best happenings in the area

ABOVE: The Sound of Iona RIGHT: Isle of Jura Both by Nicola Rose

Let there be light

UNTIL

FEB Mix together some 13 physical theatre with anime-style storytelling, a flash of torchlight and a dash of pulsating soundscapes, and you’ve got Light, a wordless sci-fi production, inspired by Edward Snowden’s work as a CIA agent and whistleblower. You’ve probably not seen anything like this before, but it comes from the multi-award-winning makers Theatre Ad Infinitum and portrays an Orwellian world where the minds of citizens are governed and monitored by technology. See website for ticket prices, 7.30pm, Battersea Arts Centre, Lavender Hill, SW11 5TN, 020 7223 2223, bac.org.uk

UNTIL FEB 27

Against the elements

Nicola Rose hosts her new solo exhibition Isles of Colour and Light at Foss Fine Art gallery this February. Having taken inspiration from her time on the Scottish islands of Mull and Iona, her paintings are a response to her fascination with the elements. Whether it’s powerful seas or dramatic skies, her works show the ever-changing colour and light of the Scottish islands. Foss Fine Art, 113B Northcote Road, SW11 6PW, 020 7738 0838, fossfineart.com

Canary Wharf Ice Rink

31st October - 27th February Canada Square park, Canary Wharf

booK TICKeTS TodAy SponSored by

icerinkcanarywharf.co.uk offICIAl bAr & KITChen provIder

[LIFESTYLE] It’s all gravy baby

Milk, two sugars There’s no denying it, we Brits love a good cuppa with a biscuit for dunking, but we usually stick to our trusty favourite, the English breakfast blend. Curious Tea has arrived on our doorsteps to give us a taste of something new. Founders Alex Minakov and Scott Haydn bring rare leaves to the city from across the world. Customers can subscribe to the Battersea business and receive a box containing high-quality tea every month (light, mixed or dark tea). Subscription from £16.95 a month for two types of loose tea, curioustea.com

Dip & Flip may have only been established in 2013 when Tim Lees, with the help of some friends, set up the business, but it has just opened its third shop in Tooting. The independent company prides itself on food inspired by trips abroad, and of course, its signature gravy, which it serves with just about everything. Leave the chefs to do the burger flipping, so you can concentrate on the dipping. Dip & Flip, 115 Tooting High Street, SW17 0SY, dipandflip.co.uk

[news]

food & drink

New restaurants, events and tasty treats in the local area Eating made easy With an enormous repertoire of great food and easy recipes, Martin had to release a follow-up to his previous book, Home Comforts, just to get them all in. The pages contain quick dishes like pea and parmesan soup and treats like churros with peaches and custard. £20, More Home Comforts by James Martin, published by Quadrille Publishing, available at Southside Shopping Centre, SW18 4TF, 020 8874 4597, waterstones.com

It’ll beer alright on the night If a play, musical or opera isn’t really your scene, you’ll be pleased to know that there’s an alternative. The Brewmasters present you with A Theatre of Beer, Act II, a type of beer festival in an unexpected setting. With 150 cask beers, 100 craft beers and a craft cider bar waiting to be sampled, there will be live music on the Thursday and Friday and street food every day. This isn’t your typical night at the theatre. Limited £10 tickets available in advance, £15 on the door for Tuesday’s Preview Night, £6 onwards, £5 for CAMRA members, 16-19 February, The Clapham Grand, 21-25 St John’s Hill, SW11 1TT, book online at: eventbrite.co.uk

This year marks your 25th anniversary at the helm of Le Gavroche, how are you going to celebrate? Probably with a bottle or two of Gosset Célebris, which I will share with my wonderful team.

Where do you see the next five to 10 years heading?

[food & drink]

Keeping it in

the family Clapham-based Michel Roux tells The Journal about his local cookery school, growing produce underground and gradually handing over the reins Francesca Lee 12

It has been a fantastic 25 years for me and for the restaurant, and a huge part of that is down to the great team I’ve had working with me. It’s important for me to continue nurturing younger talent in the industry to try and help them secure the same success. I’d love to pass the legacy on to my daughter Emily. She’s recently returned from her training in France and she’s a brilliant chef – naturally! We’ll be hosting a series of pop-ups at Le Gavroche together throughout the year. I want to continue to build on my 25 years at the restaurant but now is also a good time to start looking to the future – Emily is the next generation of family Roux, so it makes sense.

You went to Emanuel School in Battersea, set up The Michel Roux Jr Cookery School in 2013 in Clapham and you live in south west London. What was it like

[LIFESTYLE]

team [his father set up Le Gavroche], but what’s it like to work with him in the kitchen? Are there any heated moments? Of course! In a kitchen full of passionate chefs there will always be heated moments, regardless of whether you’re related or not. But we’ve worked together for so long now, it’s become second nature. We both know what works for us and what makes us tick.

What are your favourite local restaurants?

growing up in the local area and how have you seen it change? The locale has changed unbelievably since my schooldays; I certainly made a very good investment with my first flat! I’ve been here for more than 30 years and I’ve always liked the area, that’s why I’ve stayed for so long. It’s important for me to invest locally too; I have been helping to raise awareness and funds for local initiatives like North Street Potters and Omnibus Clapham.

You did your military service in the kitchens of the Elysée Palace when Presidents Giscard d’Estaing and François Mitterrand were in office, what was it like?

“I’d love to pass the legacy on to my daughter Emily. She’s the next generation of family Roux so it makes sense” Wonderful! I was there for the last few weeks of D’Estaing’s presidency and a year for Mitterrand – it was an honour to cook for two presidents. It was daunting, but a real eye opener. It was a fantastic experience for me and I learnt so much about fine-dining, opulent cuisine.

You and your father are the haute cuisine dream

The Dairy in Clapham. It has great fresh produce and a lovely atmosphere – I’d definitely recommend it. The Manor, Trinity, Bistro Union, May the Fifteenth are all worth a visit too.

You’ve been involved in an underground urban farm in Clapham which is the first of its kind in Britain. What is Its aim? I’m a non-executive director for Growing Underground – it’s an underground farm that grows sustainable, fresh micro greens and salad leaves. I got involved because I thought it was a great initiative; there is so much underground space that isn’t utilised, not just in London but all over the world. Eventually, there will be more people in the world than we currently have the capacity to feed. If we can start to utilise spaces like this properly, the potential there is huge.

“I never really liked the term ‘celebrity chef ’ – I see it more as a by-product of my day job”

You’re a very busy man, presenting cookery shows, writing cook books and working with charities, what do you find the most rewarding? I’m a very lucky man in the sense that I am able to tie a lot of the things I love into my job. I’ve never really liked the term “celebrity chef ” – I see it more as a by-product of my day job which is cooking, but I have to admit that it has allowed me to bring attention to causes that are close to my heart. Charity work has always been meaningful to me – I have ties with the charity VICTA which supports blind and partially sighted children and young people because of my own personal experiences [Michel Roux Jr had a detached retina which almost cost him his eyesight].

If you were cooking for family and friends, what would be your go-to meal? If I’m cooking at home, I like to keep things simple. For me, it’s more about sitting round the table with my loved ones and enjoying quality time. I’d maybe cook a grilled steak or some pasta with fresh vegetables and salad.

Who would be your dream 14

dinner party guests – dead or alive? Eric Cantona – I’m a Manchester United fan.

What’s your guilty pleasure? Good-quality dark chocolate. I just can’t say no to it!

What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given? Always ask questions and never give up. It has served me well so far and 25 years later, it still rings true.

Growing Underground Hidden deep below the busy streets of Clapham – 33 metres below to be exact

What plans do you have in the pipeline?

– Growing Underground is busy doing

I’ve got lots of one-off events coming up throughout the year to celebrate my 25th anniversary at Le Gavroche and I’m hoping to bring in some outside chefs to the restaurant for some of them, which should be exciting. There will also be some new developments in the Roux catering at The Langham. As for the rest – watch this space!

Using the latest technology, crops

just that; growing food underground. are being cultivated year-round in a pesticide-free environment in subterranean tunnels, and because crops are completely unaffected by the weather and the changing seasons, Growing Underground is helping reduce the need to import food. Within four hours of being picked and packed, fresh leaves could be on your doorstep.

1a Carpenter’s Place, SW4 7TD, growing-underground.com The Michel Roux Jr Cookery School, Cactus Studios, 1 St Luke’s Avenue, SW4 7LG, cactuskitchens.co.uk

From watercress and coriander to pea shoots and red amaranth, the closedloop system ensures that every leaf gets the optimum amount of nutrients.

[LIFESTYLE]

[food & drink SPOTLIGHT]

Market Porter Buying food at the supermarket is so 2015; The Journal takes a look at a new local alternative emily adams

aving accepted that supermarkets just didn’t have the high-quality produce they were looking for, Battersea-based Stefan Porter and Nick Ford decided to set up Market Porter. The business offers a new, online market-place where you can order artisanal produce straight to your kitchen table. Stefan, a former supermarket buyer, and Nick, an ex-technology banker, decided to switch career paths and set up

the e-commerce business together. They started by selling high-quality meat because they felt it was the product supermarkets often struggled to get right. Working closely with independent suppliers, the company has now moved into niche British cheese, charcuterie and chocolate and once the online marketplace was up and running, Stefan and Nick decided to open their first pop-up bar and deli in Embassy Gardens in Battersea, offering a

selection of what they sell online. Market Porter manager Nick Ford tells us more about it.

Why did you decide to open Market Porter bar and deli? Being a food brand, we felt that it was really important to have somewhere to showcase some of our produce where our customers could meet us. Buying artisan food online is a bit of a leap of faith for many people and we wanted to make that leap as easy as possible.

Why did you choose Embassy Gardens? Embassy Gardens chose us really. As a Battersea business we were looking for premises at the same time that Ballymore was searching for a local independent brand to open up a deli/ bar in their new Embassy Gardens development. We both shared a similar vision and it all fell into place.

What does the bar offer that other eateries don’t? It’s our offline home in every sense. You can come and try fantastic British cheeses, dig into our charcuterie or walk away with incredible bars of chocolate. We know all of the producers and the stories behind what we sell which is refreshing. There’s also a 1920s upright piano ready for a few sing-a-longs!

What’s next for Market Porter? Our aim is to be the go-to brand for high-quality, but affordable, artisan food. Keeping our customers happy is key, as well as continuing to unearth the best producers out there. 7 New Union Square, Embassy Gardens, SW8 5DN, 020 7622 6378, marketporterbar.com / marketporter.com

AMAZING LUXURY

TRAVEL EXPERIENCES TO CELEBRATE THE LAUNCH OF OUR NEW PRODUCT RANGES WE ARE OFFERING £250 OFF A BEACH ESCAPE HOLIDAY OR A TAILOR-MADE HOLIDAY. PLEASE QUOTE THE JOURNAL* TO RECEIVE THIS OFFER.

Why book with us? • A tailor-made booking service

• Complimentary chauffeur transfers with your holiday

• A Premium Service Guarantee

• The widest choice of premium airfares on sale in the UK

• Unique and exclusive luxury holiday ranges

• FREE 24 hour worldwide emergency assistance

TO BOOK AN APPOINTMENT AND DISCUSS YOUR OWN TRAVEL PLANS CALL OUR TRAVEL EXPERTS TODAY

THE PREMIUM AIRFARE AND LUXURY HOLIDAY EXPERTS flightcentre.co.uk/firstandbusiness

0808 278 1710

*£250 applies to new bookings on Escapes and Journeys holidays. Only redeemable at Clapham Northcote Road store, non-transferable or to be used in conjunction with any other offer. No cash alternative. Full terms & conditions see flightcentre.co.uk.

[LIFESTYLE]

BE-SPOKE This online menswear brand has got its eyes on one goal, and one goal only: to offer men made-to-measure essential items of clothing. In the coming months, it’ll be releasing a whole wardrobe of perfectly-tailored basics. The website has a comprehensive ‘fit finder’ to make sure you get the right size and, if you’re unsure as to what your measurements are, you can get a tailor’s tape measure sent to you for free. spoke-london.com

GROOVE IS IN THE HEART

[news]

fashion

The Journal uncovers what’s going on in the local fashion scene

Sophie Ellis-Bextor has teamed up with Séraphine to help raise money for Tommy’s, a charity that funds research into pregnancy problems. For every special ‘love’ T-shirt that Séraphine sells, £13 goes to the charity, and a futher £1 is donated when someone uses the hashtag #justforlove. Séraphine hopes to raise more than £100,000, to help build the first UK centre dedicated to preventing miscarriages. £29, Séraphine, 102 Northcote Road, SW11 6QW, 0207 115 5215, seraphine.com

HERE COMES THE SUN Whistles’ men’s spring/summer 2016 collection is on its way to stores and there’s plenty to admire. The colour reference for this range is indigo, with the deep hue featuring prominently on a lot of its new pieces. The collection takes inspiration from holidays in France, with azure blue splashed across a lot of the garments. It’s very much a case of bon vivant this year. Meanwhile, the womenswear section offers flowing trousers – perfect for keeping and looking cool in the heat – with some garments offering up interesting patterns and bold colour splashes. It’s not all about flowing and bright colours, however; there’s also a selection of textured maxi dresses and gala-chic dresses. Summer is finally on its way! Whistles, 75 Northcote Road, SW11 6PJ, 020 7228 1352, whistles.com

[designer spotlight]

The eye of the

beholder The Journal meets Maggie and Louis Calmels, a dynamic design duo in Wandsworth Amanda Stücklin

aggie and Louis Calmels’ home in Wandsworth is a hothouse of creativity. They have lived in the borough with their sons, James and Francis, for more than 20 years. “I don’t think I could live anywhere else in London,” says Maggie. “It’s such a vibrant area and yet has a wonderful village-y feel to it too. I love the Victorian architecture, the great mix of restaurants and shops and the proximity to three of London’s most fabulous parks.” Although the couple also has a country cottage in Sussex, Wandsworth is definitely home. The spacious drawing room is filled with an eclectic mix of carefully chosen antique and vintage pieces, which is hardly surprising since Maggie was once the antiques correspondent for London’s Evening Standard. “It was some years ago mind,” adds Maggie, “but I have always loved pottering around fairs and antique shops searching for things that catch my eye.” The three times a year Decorative Antiques & Textile Fair in Battersea Park is a particular favourite of Maggie’s. “We’ve been going so often now that a

lot of the dealers have become friends. I love the relaxed feel of the fair and the fact that you can find a huge diversity of objects and works of art. And dogs are welcome too.” Aside from her love of antiques, she has always harboured a passion for jewellery and craft so, in 2012, she set up a fledgling venture that she named Blackbird – selling an in-house range of contemporary designer jewellery. Her business started online but when a building on the corner of Webb’s Road and Ashness Road became available, she jumped at the opportunity. She was able to secure it by auction and the purchase became the subject for one of BBC’s Homes under the Hammer episodes. “Initially it was pretty grotty,” she says, “but I knew it had potential and also the location was great. I wanted us to be local and be surrounded by other small, like-minded businesses, which is hugely important. And the coffee and cakes from the French café Deli Boutique across the road are delicious!” Blackbird opened its doors to the bijoux boutique-cum-workshop in 2013 and has been going from strength to strength ever since. Maggie started

The British craft industry is as stong as ever and our jewellery is made by hand on the premises

[LOCAL INTEREST]

Ace of Hearts Hoop Earrings in Rose Gold, £60

with two ranges, Numerology and Ace of Hearts, but with collaborations from new in-house designer-maker Rebecca Maddock, additional collections include Curlicue, Gem Drops, Sun and Moon, Wishing Pearls and Art Deco Diamonds, which are proving extremely popular. Rebecca, who works from her jewellery bench situated downstairs affirms that the Bristish craft industry is as strong as ever. “Customers love to watch me at work,” she says. “They also like to know that our jewellery is made by hand on the premises as opposed to being churned out in some factory

overseas. I can also talk to them about the possibility of customising designs, which is another element that appeals.” Blackbird is a truly family affair, with Maggie’s two sons managing the day-to-day running of the shop and the business, which now not only features the Blackbird ranges, but also pieces by other cherry-picked designers, plus a selection of stylish craft gifts, scarves and accessories from up-and-coming and established artisans. So where does that leave husband Louis – the other half of this indefatigable partnership? Louis is an engineer, designer, and highly skilled metalworker who has been making custom-built, high-quality architectural metalwork, garden structures, furniture and lighting for more than 25 years. And a quick glance around Blackbird will reveal lots of interesting metal display cases and other examples of metalwork, such as the banisters of the stairs to the lower level of the shop. He is the third generation of his family to be involved in the metalwork business and has collaborated with many leading designers, such as highend interiors company Porta Romana, and artists, notably Nathalie Hambro. The company, Calmels Design, also creates theatrical sets on both a grand and small scale. “I’ve lost count as to how many beds we’ve made for various productions of Mamma Mia around the world,” he tells me. Rather like Maggie, Louis’ creativity isn’t just confined to metal work. “I am also a keen astronomer and horologist – I like figuring out how things tick!” Does this energetic couple ever have time to relax, I wonder? “Absolutely,” laughs Maggie. “We can often be found drinking wine and chilling out in one of the many local restaurants; Rosita on Northcote Road is a regular, as is Chez Bruce. I love Hedley Twist both for the hairdressing and the fact that it’s dog-friendly, and of course, Northcote Road is great for retail therapy. We also love walking on the Commons. Let’s face it; we are pretty spoilt for choice for leisure opportunities here in south west London.” Blackbird, 2 Ashness Road, SW11 6RY, 0207 738 2105, blackbird-london.com, khoraspaces.com, calmelsdesign.com

LONG AND STRONG If you’re considering a change of style by adding fullness to your hair, fear not. Jo Partridge’s Wandsworth Common salon will give you a consultation on how Easilocks extensions might work for you. It’s a new addition to its services and, if you decide that Easilocks are the way forward, they’ll even put them in for you. Free consultation, 9 Bellevue Road, SW17 7EG, 020 8682 1066, jopartridge.com

SHAPE UP Sajna Hair & Beauty offers free eyebrow shaping for anyone who treats themselves to a one-hour facial. Book in for a Crystal Clear Microdermabrasion (£55) and you’ll get a shaping thrown in as well, so you’ll leave with clear skin and perfectly sculpted brows. 48a Clapham High Street, SW4 7UR, 020 7501 0001, sajna.co.uk

[news]

health & beauty The Journal seeks out the latest beauty picks for February

WHO NEEDS CUPID?

Skinspiration This February Elemis is releasing a limited edition Pro-Collagen Marine Cream Ultra-Rich in support of Women for Women International, a company that works with women who are living in conflictstricken countries such as Syria, Rwanda and Kosovo. It provides female survivors of war with the resources for learning and developing skills that can help them reclaim their lives and provide for their family. Limited edition Pro-Collagen Marine Cream Ultra-Rich, £110 for 100ml, elemis.com

TAKE, TAKE, TAKE Sometimes, everything needs to be all about you. Headmasters in Balham is offering a Me-Day Makeover, which is an exercise in utter selfishness, and we don’t think there’s anything bad about that. Available every Monday and Sunday, it includes a haircut and styling, as well as highlights using foils, tissues or the balayage method. From £89, 21-23 Bedford Hill, SW12 9EX, 0345 459 7742, headmasters.com

SO ME Beauty and Wellness has got your back for this month’s day of unfettered love (regardless as to how nauseating that might sound). Available only in February, the Valentine’s Package is priced at £80 and features a Brazilian hot wax, gel nail polish and spray tan. You’ll breeze into the restaurant where your partner is waiting and everyone will think you’ve just stepped off a yacht from Monaco. Clapham North, 21 Clapham High Street, SW4 7TR, 020 7720 3330 and Clapham Junction, 43 St. Johns Road, SW11 1QW, 020 3441 4450, so-me.me

[LIFESTYLE]

Oils well that ends well De Mamiel seasonal facial oils are created, you’ve guessed it, four times a year, to help you and your body cope with the shifting seasons. The limited edition winter oil is full of fruit and plant extracts. Every morning and night, place four drops into the palm of your hands, cup around your nose and mouth, breathe in deeply and then massage over your face. If you want to try the spring edition, you can order it from 7 March so you have plenty of time to get prepared. £67, de Mamiel Winter Facial Oil, available from Space NK Apothecary, 46 Northcote Road, SW11 1NZ, 020 7228 7563, uk.spacenk.com

The eyes have it Elethea’s latest offering is full of fancy ingredients like anti-inflammatories that aim to reduce puffiness, brighten skin and help to get rid of those infuriating dark circles. The Eye Architecture Cream also uses tamarind seed extract to help improve skin hydration and a concoction of moisturising oils to nourish the skin. With some white tea and cucumber mixed in there too, it sounds good enough to eat. 15ml, £75, elethea.com

Eye opener It’s dark in the morning and it’s dark at night so it’s no wonder we can’t keep our eyes open. Crème de la Mer has got the solution to help combat tired eyes: the new Lifting Eye Serum. Complete with a metal applicator, you can massage the skin around the eyes before applying the silky serum. The product claims to make your skin look younger and fresher, so you’ll be sure to dazzle on that special Valentine’s date. 15ml, £180, cremedelamer.co.uk

Thirst quenching We love treating ourselves to a relaxing facial, but sometimes there just aren’t enough hours in the day, so we’ve found an alternative. It’s not quite as soothing, but we’ll give it a go. This month it’s all about the ‘drinkable facial’. Apparently, we can now achieve a healthy complexion and a healthy body, just by drinking tea. Grab a Teatox Thermo Go Bottle and fill it with Kiki Health Rejuvenating Loose Tea, which aims to help revive tired skin. You can then wash it down with your favourite juice and a teaspoon of Alchemy’s Vitamin C-packed Beauty Elixir. £40, Alchemy Beauty Elixir; £25, Teatox Thermo Go Bottle; £19, Kiki organic rejuvenating loose tea; available from Space NK Apothecary, 46 Northcote Road, SW11 1NZ, 020 7228 7563, uk.spacenk.com

[LIFESTYLE]

[review]

The salt of the earth The Journal takes a trip to The Salt Cave to try out an alternative type of therapy emily adams

woman sits to my right, bundled up in her coat and scarf like she’s off on an intrepid Arctic adventure, while a man sits to my left, wearing nothing but his swimming trunks like he’s sunning himself in the Bahamas. Where am I exactly? It’s a very good question because I’m quite confused by the scene myself, but this is a spa trend you’re sure to hear a lot more about. I am (not so) obviously, in a salt cave in a building in the middle of Earlsfield. It’s called salt therapy and it aims to replicate the environment found in a naturally-occurring salt cave, which helps treat respiratory and skin conditions. Dry sodium chloride particles (salt) are released into the air in order to loosen mucus

in your throat, helping it exit your body and letting you breathe more easily. As a natural antihistamine, it is now a popular treatment for allergies like hay fever and it’s said to help reduce inflammation and cleanse your skin. In the Earlsfield Salt Cave, there is, as you might expect, salt everywhere, lining the

walls and ceiling and covering the floor as sand would cover a beach. Indeed, there are sun lounger-style chairs too, so I can understand the man in the swimming trunks’ confusion. Those who are more underdressed are reaping the benefits for their skin, while those all wrapped up are giving their airways some TLC.

There are sun lounger-style chairs too, so I can understand the man in the swimming trunks’ confusion With room for 10 people at a time, it’s a busy afternoon in the salt cave. We’re all wearing dashing hairnets and shoe covers to minimise the risk of spreading bacteria and although I feel ridiculous, we all look as bizarre as each other, so I try and relax into it. Some people are reading, others sleeping, and one man is meditating. It’s certainly a peaceful and tranquil space; nobody speaks or makes a sound and soon, there’s something in the air that

makes me drift off and when I wake up, I’m completely bemused in this surreal igloo-esque room. By the end of the hour, my hands feel like I’ve been at the beach all day, slightly coarse and grainy, and although the Salt Cave recommends around 15 sessions for the best results, my breathing already feels easier. Visiting a salt cave just twice a week is said to strengthen your immunity to colds, coughs and allergies and it’s even advised for long-term illnesses such as cystic fibrosis. Nobody is claiming to cure these conditions, just relieve and lessen the symptoms, making the everyday easier. If you suffer from eczema and asthma, then like me, you probably reach for your inhaler and moisturise religiously, but you should consider a salt cave as a viable alternative. Although I think I need a few more trips before I can judge its effectiveness, already my body is relaxed and my airways are clearer. Even if it just gives me an hour to myself to switch off, I can see myself coming back, so if you need me, you know where to find me. For prices see website, 320B Earlsfield Road, SW18 3EJ, 020 7183 8278, saltcave.co.uk

HOME OF COMPASSION A CARING HOMES RESIDENCE

Stick with it Move over wallpaper, it’s all about wall stickers now. This collection of stickers, or decals, is made of adhesive fabric and creates a colourful, playful woodland scene with squirrels, rabbits and birds to place around the room. If you fancy mixing the display between seasons, you can, because they’re easy to remove, don’t damage your walls and they’re completely reusable. From £58, Piccoli & Co, 63 Abbeville Road, SW4 9JW, 020 8675 3900, piccoliandco.com

Forest Critters Earthy Reusable Fabric Wall Sticker, £149

Roll up, roll up!

[news]

kids’ corner

Keep the kids busy this half term at the circus. Wandsworth Lifelong Learning is hosting an interactive circus skills workshop for three to eight-year-olds who can come along with their parents or carers and learn to juggle, develop their balancing skills and release their inner circus ringmaster. The workshop will be sure to improve concentration and self-esteem, while helping little ones make friends, but most importantly have fun. 1.30-3pm, 18 February, Balham Library, 16 Ramsden Road, SW12 8QY, 020 8673 1129, fis.wandsworth.gov.uk

Treats for the little ones this February

Pretty little thing Mamas & Papas clearly know that a girl can never have too many clothes, even if she’s under the age of three, so it has returned with a second collaboration with Liberty London. Following the success of its first collection, it has created an exclusive selection for little girls. The range features everything from bibs to blouses and jackets to dresses, all in four of Liberty’s world-famous prints. Available from 25 February from Bump to Baby, 61 Balham High Road, SW12 9AW, 020 8673 6023, mamasandpapas.com From L-R: Freya Dress Set, £44; Tee and Emma Tutu, £39; Hesketh Dress, £34

Sustainable showbiz

At the End of Everything Else follows the story of Icka and her best friend, a little yellow bird called Tito, who goes missing. With puppetry, animation, music and sound, this show is perfect for children aged six and over as they follow Icka setting off on a grand adventure to find Tito. £12 for adults, £9 for children and concessions, 18-20 February, Battersea Arts Centre, Lavender Hill, SW11 5TN, 020 7223 2223, bac.org.uk

[LIFESTYLE]

parent trap: nappy valley net NappyValleyNet.com has become an online sensation in the four years since founder Susan Hanage, aka Annabel, launched it, with more than 130,000 visits to the site every month. An invaluable tool for parents based in south west London who are seeking to swap tips and share advice, we’ve teamed up to post some of the most pressing topics posted on the site Topic

All threads from NappyValleyNet.com; users’ names have been omitted to protect individuals’ identities and although opinions have not been altered, posts have been edited in line with the Residents’ Journal house style

Full-time childcare for a one-year old Wed 20 Jan, 2016 7.59pm My wife intends to return to full-time work at the end of her year’s maternity leave. This will leave us both in full-time employment with a one-yearold. Can anyone recommend any nurseries in Balham or in the Nightingale Triangle area where we can leave our child from 8am to 6pm five days a week from the age of 12 months? All of the nurseries I’ve been looking at either seem to start from an older age or their operating hours are not consistent with working a full day. At the moment, I can’t see a way around this without getting a nanny. Thank you very much in advance.

TOP REPLIES

Thu 21 Jan, 2016 7.29am Where did you look? Thu 21 Jan, 2016 7.33am Second Steps, Stepping Stones, Marmalade Caterpillar, Rainbow, Montessori etc. Don’t get me wrong, some start as young as a year old, but there doesn’t seem to be many that cater for the full working day from that age.

I wanted to make sure I wasn’t missing any good options and whether anyone had any specific recommendations. We can’t be the only working couple in the area looking for a nursery or day-care solution like this. Thu 21 Jan, 2016 7.42pm Nightingales Nursery at St Francis Xavier may be worth a look. Thu 21 Jan, 2016 7.58pm Eveline Day Nursery is another with a good reputation. Thu 21 Jan, 2016 9.27pm Baby Room is also an option as is Grove Hall – our child went there from 10 months until he was three-years-old. He made good progress and

was happy. We only left earlier as it’s no longer convenient. Thu 21 Jan, 2016 11.23pm Eveline is open from 7.30am to 6.30pm and was rated Outstanding by Ofsted last year. Both my children loved it (one was full-time for a year). Thu 21 Jan, 2016 11.26pm Also, may I add that for Eveline you should register as soon as possible. My eldest got a place because it had just opened in 2012. My youngest child was registered for a full-time place before birth.

Topic

Car seats for ski holidays Sun 24 Jan, 2016 9.02pm I wondered if anyone has any experience of taking a toddler

on a ski holiday and what you did about the car seat for the coach transfer? We’re travelling to Tignes in February and it’s a three-hour transfer by coach from the airport. I’m having a bit of a dilemma about whether or not to bring our car seat with us (my husband isn’t keen on lugging it around the airport!). The holiday company doesn’t provide car seats in its coach either. I guess my concern is partly about the safety of our toddler not being in an appropriate seat on a long coach trip, and partly about containing her and (hopefully) making her comfortable enough to sleep for some of the journey. Has anyone else had this experience?

TOP REPLy

Mon 25 Jan, 2016 6.48am I would never let mine sit for three hours on a coach without a seat. If something were to happen you would never forgive yourselves. I know it’s a pain to lug it around but there are some on the market that are fairly lightweight. If she’s a bit older and more than 15kg then she might be OK in a booster seat, which is better than nothing at least.

[parents & kids]

Mum’s the

word Local mum Vicky Stothard tells The Journal how mums really can have it all and still treat themselves to some downtime dylan maguire

have no idea how parents do it. They juggle children, jobs, finances, relationships – and you don’t hear them complain. I get delayed at the train station and I moan about it all day. Parents are a mystery to me. Vicky Stothard is one of those parents, but she has four children under the age of 10 and a thriving business to manage, and she looks more alert than I do when I meet her at her Mummy and Baby spa in Balham. Based at independent MindBodySoul, it has just celebrated its 10 year anniversary and it’s clear to see why it’s still going strong. Alongside its salon

and spa treatments, it offers something special for mums, mums-to-be and babies and toddlers too. It was after having her first son that Vicky decided to develop the spa. She explains: “I realised that it wasn’t very child-friendly, so I relaunched it for mums and babies.” It was specially designed by Vicky herself, with children in mind. There’s ample space for pushchairs beside salon stations; treatment rooms have comfortable travel cots; safe and spacious areas for kids to play; baby-changing facilities and drinks, snacks and toys for little ones to enjoy. All the while, mum can relax and

treasure a rare moment to herself. “When I was on maternity leave, I realised that you still want treatments, a facial maybe, just to feel human again,” Vicky tells me. And for mums who are constantly on the move, there’s a range of express 30-minute treatments so they can get their quick beauty fix, from facials and massages to manicures and pedicures. The spa prides itself on being registered with the NHS Breastfeeding Welcome Scheme. Vicky guides me downstairs to a dimly lit room, with calming music, soft drapes and comfy sofas where mothers can breastfeed in a private and peaceful space. “It’s about making it easier to go out with your kids, which can be being quite stressful,” she says. “Here it’s safe and all the staff are trained to work with children and around breastfeeding mothers.” Vicky was also keen to help expectant mothers, to make them feel more comfortable during the stresses and strains of pregnancy. Her own experiences have played a significant role in every part of the business, making for more personal yet professional

[LIFESTYLE]

Mums on the move We’ve searched high and low for the best activities that mums and mums-to-be can do with children in tow

Candlelit Pregnancy Yoga Run by teacher Nadia Raafat, each yoga session helps support pregnancy with meditation and relaxation exercises. With plenty of instruction from Nadia herself, classes are accessible no matter how far in to pregnancy you are. Various locations, 07771 687 128, becomingmother.co.uk

Dr and Daughter Antenatal Classes London obstetrician Roger Marwood has supervised more than 20,000 pregnancies and now, alongside his daughter Rebecca Maberly, they run classes in a number of locations to help you prepare for the birth of your baby and for life as a parent. Ramsden Hall Balham, SW12 8QX, 07957 596 931, doctoranddaughter.co.uk

Lavish Habit Pop along to this coffee shop for a slice of cake and a catch-up with friends,

treatments. “I didn’t like being pregnant,” she says honestly. “I had a lot of backache and sciatica problems, and that’s why I developed certain treatments myself.”

Even with a large family back home, Vicky is developing the treatments, designing the work spaces and working whenever she can Vicky tells me that there are services designed for every stage of pregnancy, including the massage on either hydrofirm water pillows or a traditional massage and the pure pregnancy package, both of which she designed herself. “It’s about aiding relaxation. Of course all the products and treatments are completely safe to use while you’re pregnant or breastfeeding,” she adds. Since the salon launched, Vicky has

remained loyal to naturally derived Aveda products, which perfectly complement the style of her business. There’s a homely feel to the spa, with rustic wooden furniture, comfy chairs in the reception and a chalkboard wall with Polaroid photos and the names of everyone who works there; a charming personal touch. “I didn’t want it to be like a typical salon, I wanted it to feel cosy and warm when you walk in, not cold and noisy.” From my short meeting with Vicky, I can see just how involved she is. Even with a large family back home, Vicky is developing the treatments, designing the work spaces and working whenever she can. I really can’t work out how she does it all but she’s frank and honest when I ask her: “I’m nothing without my team. I’m not a hairdresser and I’m not a therapist, so I rely on them. It’s not been easy.” No matter how many people help and support them, I’m starting to think that parents like Vicky will always be a mystery to me.

then you can browse its unusual boutique. There’s upcycled furniture, homeware, jewellery and clothes to keep you busy. 75 Bedford Hill, SW12 9HA, 020 8355 1270, lavishhabit.co.uk

Buggyfit To keep fit after the arrival of your baby, you can attend Buggyfit classes lasting an hour with a three to five-mile walk. You can push your baby along, chat to other mums and strengthen and tone up your body at the same time. Wandsworth & Tooting Common, 97 Wakehurst Road, SW11 6BZ, 07779 271 655, elizadoalot.com/buggyfit

Pram Chorus If singing is your thing, then you can always join Pram Chorus, a daytime choir for parents of pre-school age children. Songs are taught by ear, without sheet music, so your hands are free to clap and wave or hold your little one. The Bedford Side Bar, Bedford Hill,

87 Balham High Road, SW12 9AP, 020 8772 0208, independentmbs.com

SW12 9HD, pramchorus.com

DIRECTORY

All of the essentials are taken care of in our roundup for harmonious living

Lifesavers [CLEANING]

Cleaners Battersea 020 3404 2168 battersea-cleaners.co.uk

[COUNCIL]

Lambeth Council 18 Brixton Hill SW2 1RD 020 7926 1000 lambeth.gov.uk Wandsworth Council The Town Hall Wandsworth High Street SW18 2PU 020 8871 6000 wandsworth.gov.uk

[DRY CLEANING]

Dry Cleaning Square drycleaningsquare.co.uk Fantasy Cleaners 020 7498 3355 fantasycleaners.com

[ELECTRICIAN]

SW Bishop Electrical 90 Mallinson Road SW11 1 BN 020 7924 1421 swbishop.co.uk

[FLORIST]

[LOCKSMITH]

Battersea Flower Station 16 Winders Road SW11 3HE 0207 978 4253 batterseaflowerstation.co.uk

Clapham Locksmiths 70 Larkhall Rise SW4 6LA 07706 533 488 / 020 7498 3747 clapham-locksmiths.co.uk

Clapham Flowers Unit 1 Clapham South Station Nightingale Lane SW4 9AE 020 8673 2958 claphamflowers.co.uk

Oakley Locksmiths Ltd 81 Replingham Road SW18 5LU 020 8871 1238 oakleylocksmiths.co.uk

The Flower Sanctuary 8 Hildreth Street SW12 9RQ 020 8675 3799 flowersanctuary.co.uk

Clapham Common Post Office 161-163 Clapham High Street SW4 7ST postoffice.co.uk

[LIBRARY]

Battersea Library 265 Lavender Hill SW11 1JB 020 7223 2334 wandsworth.gov.uk Wandsworth Library 11 Garratt Lane SW18 4AQ 020 8877 1742 wandsworth.gov.uk

[POST OFFICE]

Battersea Post Office 202 Lavender Hill SW11 1AB postoffice.co.uk

[local care] Caring Homes Home of Compassion High Street, Thames Ditton KT7 0TT 0808 223 5003 enquiries@caring homes.co.uk homeofcompassion.co.uk

[MOVING SERVICES] Abels Moving Services UK Residential, European and International Removals & Storage 020 3773 5796 info@abels.co.uk abels.co.uk

[VETS AND PETS]

David Cuffe & Associates 52 Abbeville Road SW4 9NF 020 8772 9922 cuffevets.com

[interior design] Clara Bee 126 Ritherdon Road, SW17 8QQ 07974 759 428 clarabee.com

[boutique] Ethical Collection ‘Bringing beautiful items, talented artisans and designers to new markets’ ethicalcollection.com

Travel, Hotels & Social [HOTELS]

Pestana Chelsea Bridge Hotel & Spa 354 Queenstown Road SW8 4AE 020 7062 8000 pestana.com

The Lavender Guest House 18 Lavender Sweep SW11 1HA 020 7585 2767 thelavenderguesthouse.com

Flight Centre 14-16 Northcote Road SW11 1NX 0207 840 7948 flightcentre.co.uk

Crowne Plaza London Battersea Bridges Wharf SW11 3BE 020 7801 3500 crowneplaza.com

The Alma 499 Old York Road SW18 1TF 020 8870 2537 almawandsworth.com

Max Travel 250 York Road SW11 3SJ 020 7095 0920 maxtravel.co.uk

[TRAVEL AGENT]

Original Travel 21 Ransome’s Dock 35-37 Parkgate Road SW11 4NP 020 3582 9511 originaltravel.co.uk

Brewers Inn 147 East Hill SW18 2QB 020 8874 4128 brewersinn.co.uk

[directory]

Education Busy Bees Dolphin House, Riverside West Smugglers Way SW18 1DE 020 8877 1135 busybeeschildcare.co.uk Eaton House The Manor 58 Clapham Common Northside SW4 9RU 020 7924 6000 eatonhouseschools.com

Emanuel School Battersea Rise SW11 1HS 020 8870 4171 emanuel.org.uk

The White House Preparatory 24 Thornton Road SW12 0LF 020 8674 9514 whitehouseschool.com

Thomas’s Battersea 28-40 Battersea High Street SW11 3JB 020 7978 0900 thomas-s.co.uk

Parkgate House School 80 Clapham Common Northside SW4 9SD 020 7350 2452 parkgate-school.co.uk

The Baby Room 22-23 The Boulevard SW17 7BW 020 8675 7276 babyroom.co.uk

Wandsworth Preparatory School 2 Allfarthing Lane SW18 2PQ 020 8870 4133 wandsworthprep.com

Bolingbroke Medical Centre Wakehurst Road SW11 6BF 020 7801 1460 bolingbrokemedicalcentre.nhs.uk

Jo Partridge 9 Bellevue Road SW17 7EG 020 8682 1066 jopartridge.com

So Me Beauty and Wellness 21 Clapham High Street SW4 7TR 020 7720 3330 so-me.me

Thurleigh Road Practice 88a Thurleigh Road SW12 8TT 020 8675 3521 thurleighroadpractice.nhs.uk

Lemon Tree Health and Beauty 66 Webb’s Road SW11 6SE 020 7228 1020 lemontree-london.com

Tranquility Skin Care Centre 1 Bellevue Road SW17 7EG 020 8696 1700 tranquillitybeautyclinic.com

[HAIR/BEAUTY SALON]

Michaela Mitoi A2 Spinnaker House Battersea Reach, Juniper Drive SW18 1FR 020 7738 0304 michaelasalon.com

Verde 113 Northcote Road SW11 6PJ 020 7223 2095 verde.co.uk

Beauty, Health & Wellbeing [DENTISTs]

Crescent Lodge Dental Practice 28 Clapham Common South Side SW4 9BN 020 7622 5333 dentistsw4.com Ethicare Dental 68 West Hill SW18 1RU 020 8870 5059 ethicaredental.co.uk Riverside Dental Spa 5B Hamilton House St George Wharf SW8 2LE 020 7091 0677 riversidedentalspa.com Trinity Fields Dental 194 Trinity Road SW17 7HR 020 8672 7766 trinityfieldsdental.co.uk

[DOCTORS]

Clapham Family Practice 89 Clapham High Street SW4 7DB 020 3049 6600 claphamfamilypractice.com The Awareness Centre 41 Abbeville Road SW4 9JX 020 8673 4545 theawarenesscentre.com

Anthony Laban Home 3 Bennet Court 1 Bellevue Road SW17 7EG 020 3475 6644 anthonylabanhome.com Charlotte Cave 17 The Polygon SW4 0JG 020 7622 4665 charlottecave.co.uk Gro - Battersea 4 Lavender Hill SW11 5RW 020 7585 1325 grolondon.co.uk Gro - Clapham 2 Voltaire Road SW4 6DH 020 7627 0169

Nirvana Health and Beauty 191 Garratt Lane SW18 4DR 020 8704 0034 nirvanahealthandbeauty.com Purity Skin Centre 95-97 Clapham High Street SW4 7TB 020 7622 3700 purityskincentre.com Rococo Salon 16 Webb’s Road SW11 1XJ 020 7223 0948 rococosalon.com

Willie Smarts 11 The Pavement SW4 0HY 020 7498 7771 williesmarts.co.uk Witches Hut - Balham 45 Balham High Road SW12 9AN 020 8673 3222 Witches Hut - Clapham 13 The Pavement SW4 OHY 020 7720 3666 witcheshut.com

SOUTH WEST PROPERTY Showcasing the finest homes and property in the area

Your Local Agents Douglas & Gordon

Clapham 30 Abbeville Road SW4 9NG 020 8675 4400 (sales) 020 8675 0888 (lettings)

Battersea Park 236 Battersea Park Road SW11 4ND 020 7720 8077 (sales) 020 7498 5243 (lettings) Battersea 128 Northcote Road SW11 6QZ 020 7924 2000 (sales) 020 7924 2002 (lettings) Southfields & Earlsfield 24 Replingham Road SW18 5LR 020 8874 8822 (sales) 020 8874 8844 (lettings) Balham 81 Nightingale Lane SW12 8NX 020 8673 0191 (sales) 020 8673 0191 (lettings) douglasandgordon.com

Carter Jonas | Sullivan Thomas

Wandsworth 19 Bellevue Road SW17 7EG 020 8767 7711 (sales) 020 8682 3121 (lettings) carterjonas.co.uk

Hamptons

Battersea & Wandsworth 98-100 Northcote Road SW11 6QW 020 7411 9965 Clapham 27-31 The Pavement SW4 0JE 020 7717 5295 Balham 11-13 Bedford Hill SW12 9ET 020 8970 7002 Earlsfield 350-352 Garrett Lane SW18 4ES hamptons.co.uk

Knight Frank

Battersea & London Riverside 7a Albion Riverside 8 Hester Road SW11 4AX 020 3597 7670 Clapham 11 The Polygon SW4 0JG 020 3667 6750 Wandsworth 26 Bellevue Road SW17 7EB 020 8682 7777 knightfrank.co.uk

Marsh & Parsons

John Thorogood

Battersea 140 Northcote Road SW11 6QZ 020 7228 7474 john-thorogood.co.uk

JOHNS&CO

Embassy Gardens Sales, Lettings & Management Nine Elms Lane SW8 5BL 020 7481 0600 johnsand.co

Rymer Irens

Balham 89 Nightingale Lane SW12 8NX 020 8045 8989 Wandsworth Common 34 Bellevue Road SW17 7EF 020 8767 2222 rymer-irens.com

Savills

Battersea 99 Northcote Road SW11 6PR 020 3428 2222

Balham 45 Balham Hill SW12 9DR 020 8673 4377

Battersea Bridge 62-64 Battersea Bridge Road SW11 3AG 020 3430 6900

Battersea 118 Northcote Road SW11 6QP 020 7228 9292

Battersea Park 238A Battersea Park Road SW11 4NG 020 3402 1900

Clapham 28 Old Town SW4 0LB 020 7501 3666 marshandparsons.co.uk

Clapham 57-59 Nightingale Lane SW12 8ST 020 8673 4111

9 ElmsCourt

Vauxhall Vintage House 36-37 Albert Embankment SE1 7TL 020 3189 0164 9elmscourt.co.uk

Wandsworth 12 Huguenot Place SW18 2EW 020 8877 1222 savills.co.uk

[PROPERTY]

[PROPERTY WATCH]

The heart of the home Max Green, head of Savills Clapham, describes how a kitchen can make or break a house

he kitchen has long been the hub of the home, now it is the epicentre of family life. Over the past 20 years, the way families live and spend time together has evolved; gone are the days of the mother cooking alone in a small kitchen, with children lost in the recesses of the house. Kitchens now play host to the entire family, with homework or work emails assiduously attended to before a migration to the living space after dinner for films or games. It is the soul of the household and, as our relationship with food has changed, kitchens have become bigger and smarter, where anyone can whip up a weeknight masterpiece. If you’re thinking about refurbishing or refreshing a kitchen, consider your choice carefully. The kitchen’s style should match the rest of the house; a Boffi or Poliform won’t suit a scruffy home. The chosen brand also says a great deal; Smallbone for the classic, Bulthaup for the efficient and Boffi for the super high-end. Newly developed houses and refurbished kitchens now provide all

the equipment you’d expect to see in a professional establishment, while retaining a chic and effortless style. Two new houses on Court Lane in Dulwich Village, for example, built by Oppidan, were both fitted with a beautiful bespoke kitchen equipped with everything a family might need, with Gaggenau appliances that include a steam oven and a warming drawer to allow for those unexpected delays. As ideal family homes, both these kitchens have an adjacent family room, which can be separated from or incorporated into the main space with a sliding wall, as can the gardens with glass sliding doors, allowing the kitchens to adapt as necessary to family life and entertaining. Whether the potential purchaser is interested in the triple oven and induction hob or just the size of the wine fridge, the kitchen can make or break the sale. It is often at the top of most buyers’ list; a shabby kitchen can cheapen the property in their eyes, so investment is often well worth the

return in value if you are considering selling in the near future. Two decades ago, a galley kitchen with basic appliances would be sufficient; kitchens were functional and used for cooking only, with eating and entertaining reserved for the dining room. Now, the kitchens of 2016 are made to fit the entire family with sufficient storage to hide the evidence, extensive islands are a must, and most incorporate hidden work stations for adults and children alike. Beyond that, we expect them to double up as entertainment spaces with all the latest gadgets, from incorporated speakers and high definition televisions competing with the Quooker boiling water taps and steaming ovens for our attention. In a fast-paced modern age, kitchens have become so much more than their original ancestors and should be equipped for every eventuality, to slot into our busy lifestyles and to feed both body and mind. 57-59 Nightingale Lane, SW12 8ST, 020 8673 4111, savills.co.uk

PROPERTIES FOR SALE

Court Lane, Dulwich Village, SE21

Veronica Road, Heaver Estate, SW17

Guide price: £3.5m

Guide price: £6.75m

Savills Clapham, 020 8673 4111

Savills Northcote Road, 020 3428 2222

Savills Battersea Bridge Road, 020 3430 6900

Macaulay Road, Clapham, SW4

[PROPERTY news]

PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT Important street plans affecting south west London All images © TfL

EXPLORING THE PAST Clapham is soon to become home to a tea room with a twist and exhibition centre after Transport for London (TfL) was recently awarded planning permission from Lambeth Council to turn a WWII air-raid shelter into a restaurant or café. It’s situated near Clapham South tube station and is currently an old rotunda that pokes out of the ground, with eight deep-level shelters underneath it – even further down than the Northern Line tube tunnels. The bunkers were originally designed to hold thousands of people during the London bombings in the 1940s – they were constructed between 1940 and 1942 – and are steeped in history. The rotunda’s use as a protective shelter came to an end in 1945, when it was then used as a hostel for military personnel and civilians. Later on in the decade, in 1948, it was used to house hundreds of migrants who arrived from Jamaica on the HMT Empire Windrush. In 1951, during the Festival of Britain, the shelter was used as lodging for tourists and school children. Then, in 1998, the building was given a Grade II-listed status by way of recognising its historical significance, and it also acknowledged the fact it’s the only deep-level

shelter remaining that retains a large amount of the original signage, and is one of the few in the capital to retain original bunk beds. The planned building work for the new café is due to start in mid-2016, but that’s not all that’s happening. The London Transport Museum is getting involved with the project to include the shelter in part of its Hidden London tours, and the museum will host an underground exhibition. When the tours aren’t running, there will be an exhibition space that people can visit in order to

[PROPERTY]

PLANNING APPLICATIONS DATE RECEIVED: 21 December ADDRESS: Cromford Road, SW18 PROPOSAL: Alterations including erection of dormer roof extension to main rear roof (with French doors and safety railings) and above part of twostorey back addition; formation of roof terrace above two-storey back addition. DATE RECEIVED: 21 December ADDRESS: Trewint Street, SW18

“We look forward to working with the new tenants to create a very special visitor experience” learn about the history of the tunnels. This isn’t the first time that a London air-raid shelter has been renovated and re-purposed: one in Stockwell became a war memorial and one underneath Soho Square in central London was recently put up for sale by Westminster Council and has attracted interest from restaurant groups, as well as gym franchises. Graeme Craig, TfL’s director of commercial development, says of the SW4 project: “Clapham South’s deeplevel shelters have played an important role in shaping the London that we know today. The planning approval that we have received from Lambeth Council

means that this structure can once again be brought back to life. Linking the new restaurant or café above ground with the historic shelters below ground showcases how we are opening up our assets to Londoners and delivering value for fare payers.” Following on from that, Sam Mullins, director of the London Transport Museum, adds: “We’re really excited about the transformation of the rotunda into a new restaurant or café on Clapham Common. We look forward to working with the new tenants to create a very special visitor experience about this piece of hidden London history. This new exhibition space will add an interesting element to our already popular Hidden London tours.” Three firms were appointed to help TfL realise this ambitious project: POW Architects, Indigo Planning and vcl2, and it looks set to become another historical icon in London’s varied history. tfl.gov.uk

PROPOSAL: Erection of a single-storey side extension. DATE RECEIVED: 22 December ADDRESS: Dinsmore Road, SW12 PROPOSAL: Alterations including erection of mansard roof extension to main rear roof; formation of roof terrace (with screening). DATE RECEIVED: 23 December ADDRESS: Manchuria Road, SW11 PROPOSAL: Excavation to enlarge basement including formation of front and rear lightwells with grille cover. DATE RECEIVED: 23 December ADDRESS: Montana Road, SW17 PROPOSAL: Erection of mansard roof extension to main rear roof and above back addition. Erection of single-storey rear/side extension (retrospective application).

PLANNed roadworks and closures Mitcham Road, SW17

Chestnut Grove, SW12

Albert Bridge Road, SW11

1-9 February

15-19 February

Until 21 February

Until 7 March

Carriageway resurfacing

Footway work – gully repair

Footway reconstruction

Wandsworth

020 8871 6000

Battersea Park Road, SW11

Endlesham Road, SW12

Clapham Common South Side, SW4

Balham High Road, SW12

3-11 February

15-26 February

29 February – 8 March

Until 31 March

Digital speed camera renewal

Repair sewer chamber

Resurfacing remedial works and

Cycle superhighway

scheme – work taking place

Thames Water

application of blue CSH directional

upgrade works

in footway

0845 9200 800

road closure

Transport for London

0845 305 1234

Bedford Hill, SW12

[property NEWS]

THE KNOW-HOW Property developments both local and London-wide

Catchment If You Can: Elite US school eyes SW London base South west London could be in line for a major selling point if the rumours are true about a top US school going on the hunt for a site in the capital. It goes without saying that first-rate educational facilities are one of the main drivers for high-end buyers and they don’t come much more sought after than the elite Avenues: The World School. The American-based school founded by former Yale University president Benno Schmidt and former Esquire publisher Alan Greenberg counts Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes’ daughter Suri among its pupils, and is believed to be scouting for a suitable site to house its first international academy.

The Evening Standard claims Savills is helping the operation identify a base and that they’re looking around Earls Court and near the new US Embassy in Nine Elms. Oversubscribed since 2012, the Avenues school run is famously populated with top hedge fund managers, fashion designers and tech entrepreneurs; the New York branch charges £29,400 a year, teaches Spanish and Mandarin at nursery age and gives everyone an iPad at the age of five.

Outer Prime to outshine Prime Central London in 2016; Queen’s Park and Tooting the ‘hot tickets’ The fringes of the capital should comfortably outperform Prime Central London next year, according to Marsh &

Parsons, with Queen’s Park and Tooting picked out as the “hot tickets”. The agency is predicting three per cent growth for PCL in 2016, but five per cent for Outer Prime, as the “stamp duty gridlock” continues across London’s wealthiest neighbourhoods. The firm notes that in 2015, 59 per cent of London property sales have been for homes below the £937,000 marker, while purchases above this threshold have accounted for 41 per cent. The market below £1.5million is tipped to be the main driver, and buyers priced out of places like Balham, North Kensington and Little Venice are expected to boost activity in neighbouring – and slightly less expensive – locations like Queen’s Park and Tooting. The lion’s share of next year’s house

[PROPERTY] price growth will happen in Q1, says Marsh & Parsons, with the traditional influx of January buyers joining forces with buy-to-let investors and second home buyers spurred on by the prospect of an extra 3 per cent stamp duty penalty. The firm also reckons the base rate of interest will rise 0.25 per cent to hit 0.75 per cent towards the end of the year. Peter Rollings, CEO of Marsh & Parsons, said: “The Chancellor’s Stamp Duty changes have certainly dulled the London housing market of late, and whilst 2016 will see a return to growth, it will be rather lack-lustre. There now exists a fundamental unevenness between sellers – who want to sell their properties at the prices they were at six months ago – and buyers, who are seeking recompense for the increased Stamp Duty levelled at them. It’s already started but it’s going to take a while to iron out these differences, and in the meantime the brightest spots of house price growth will be in places where average house prices are climbing from a lower base. “Gone are the days of ‘travel-card zone snobbery’ – and London buyers will increasingly stretch their aspirations southwards and northwards well into zones 3 and beyond to find the best priced properties. What we have commonly considered Prime London is growing geographically, feeding off the popularity of new progressing areas. “The first half of next year is where the main action will take place. Typically we see buyers flood onto the market straight after the Christmas break, having postponed plans in the festive build-up, to make a fresh start to the year. “But we expect that as the economy strengthens throughout 2016 the Bank of England will become confident enough to raise the base rate, albeit only slightly. Nevertheless, even a minor increase can be significant as it is an indicator of the Bank’s long-term intentions – namely, to get rates back to where they were pre2008. Borrowers have been spoilt of late, finding a wealth of competitive mortgage deals available, but this will serve as a reminder to would-be buyers that the current rock bottom rates will not last forever. As a result, we can expect more buyers and existing homeowners locking in to longer fixed-term mortgages in the early stages of next year, in hope of forestalling the impact of any rate rises.”

Development partner sought for giant Battersea regeneration project Wandsworth Council is on the hunt for a joint venture partner to deliver one of south west London’s biggest regeneration projects. The sprawling Winstanley and York Road housing estates in central Battersea are in line for a £1billion transformation, creating a new-look neighbourhood with around 2,000 homes, retail, leisure, community and office space. A consultation into the area’s future has been going on for the last three years and tenants and owner-occupiers are being offered new homes in the development so they can stay and “share in the revival”. The site (which is close to Clapham Junction station, Europe’s busiest interchange and a key part of the Crossrail 2 plans) will see hundreds of out-dated council homes rebuilt, alongside new affordable housing, private rented and private for-sale accommodation. There’s also going to be a new library, leisure centre, park and street network. Ravi Govindia, leader of Wandsworth Council: “Our ambitions are to deliver more than 2,000 high quality new homes in the heart of Battersea and to completely renew the estates’ environment, services and community facilities. Hundreds of local people will be offered vastly improved homes which meet today’s needs and help their families to thrive. Our plans have the potential to dramatically improve the quality of life across this neighbourhood and we want to find a partner that will put our residents’ interests and needs at the heart of their approach.” The development partner procurement process is being managed by Bilfinger GVA on behalf of Wandsworth Council and the preferred joint venture partner will be chosen via OJEU through competitive dialogue. The OJEU notice will be issued on 11 January 2016, with responses to the PQQ required by 12 February 2016.

A flying start Jonathan Dyson describes a busy start to 2016, especially in light of the impending rise in stamp duty for second homes

Well the New Year is definitely off and running. Vendors who have waited to box up all the tell-tale Christmas decorations turn their attention to the serious task of selling, and buyers in New Year/new start mode hit the agents hard as they turn up the wick on their property search. Even though it was expected, 2016 has seen a bumper start across our entire region with buyers up by 42 per cent, sellers up by 46 per cent and agreed sales more than triple what they were in the same period last year. So what has suddenly opened the floodgates? Without a doubt the impending stamp duty liability on second homes has had a big impact, galvanising buyers to act before the 1 April deadline, if only to be certain of understanding the lay of the land. While the chancellor has more or less set out his plans to add an extra three per cent duty on all second homes, there are still some aspects of the proposed legislation that are unclear, so many buyers are simply playing it safe. One part of the legislation that has come to light is that even if a purchaser owns a property overseas, this will still count as a first property so any additional property will be liable for the extra three per cent duty so although time is running out, it’s worth taking the plunge quickly to avoid the cost. The other reason for the uplift is simply stability. The increase in buyers, mixed with a good variety of properties has created an unusually good feeding ground for both sides and with no significant price rises or falls expected this year, this is good news for everyone. Jonathan Dyson is the area sales director of Hamptons International in Battersea, Balham and Clapham. Hamptons International 98-100 Northcote Road, SW11 6QW, 020 7411 9965, hamptons.co.uk

[PROFILE]

Tooting south westâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s horn The Journal waves hello to Marsh & Parsonsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; latest office in Tooting and meets the two agents heading up the branch, John-Paul Burrough, sales manager, and Charlie Crane, lettings manager BETHAN REES

[PROPERTY]

All photography by Sarel Jansen

here’s a rumble in the property jungle and it’s happening right on your doorstep in south London. Surrounded by areas of Wandsworth, Balham, Wimbledon and Streatham, Tooting is the latest destination in Marsh & Parsons’ expansion plans, which is to open five offices a year. Overseeing the SW17 office is John-Paul Burrough, sales manager, and Charlie Crane, lettings manager, who have both come to this branch having worked nearby in the Balham office. John-Paul previously held the post of senior sales negotiator and Charlie was a lettings valuer, so combined, their local knowledge on sales and lettings is a tour de force. But I want to find out why the estate agency felt the need to open in this part of the capital. “We’ve already got three offices around this area: Battersea, Balham & Clapham South, and Clapham Old Town. The area was previously being covered by these branches, and we already know the buyers, the sellers and the market well; it seems silly not to take advantage of it,” John-Paul starts. Charlie agrees and adds: “We’ve seen the demand for properties increase too. You only need one or two people to come and have a look and they quickly realise what Tooting has to offer.” Walking around SW17, it has a rather eclectic feel; from the buzzing watering holes such as the Wheatsheaf and Little Bar to its notably varied restaurants including Dosa n Chutney, The Chicken Shop (owned by Soho House) and Meza, there really is something for all tastes here. So what type of demographic is being attracted to the area? “We see everyone from new couples looking to rent their first home together, professional sharers who need the connection to the Northern Line and also young families who previously lived in a flat but now want a garden; we really see it all,” Charlie says regarding renters in Tooting. John-Paul tells me that he sees a lot of first-time buyers or those looking to upsize here, but also those looking to invest in property. “I think it’s a stronghold for investment, and right now is a great time to buy. At the moment, mortgage rates are really low, as is stamp duty for those spending less than £938,000,” he explains.

Aside from the plethora of places to spend precious free time, what has Tooting got to offer? “It’s a very friendly, close-knit community and a lot of people know each other here. Some people have lived locally for a very long time, which is different to Balham and Clapham which are more transient,” Charlie says of the residents. “Tooting Bec Common is so beautiful,” says JohnPaul, “and the properties overlooking the common in the Heaver Estate are stunning. But there’s also such a mix of properties such as double-fronted houses and period conversions, both Edwardian and Victorian,” he adds. The shiny new office sits on the corner of Upper Tooting Road and Foulser Road, and it is a thing of beauty. A gleaming beacon of red and white, the Marsh & Parsons colours, John-Paul and Charlie appear to be at home in their new workspace and they’ve both stepped up their career ladders. “I’m so excited to be running an M&P office, I’ve wanted to do this for a while,” John-Paul says. Charlie is also thrilled to be in Tooting. “The potential to let here is so big, we’ve just got to make sure people know we’re here!” In the window of the office is a huge, gleaming “0 per cent” sign and I ask John-Paul what it means. “For three months we sell property for 0 per cent

– it’s a loss leader for the business but helps us to quickly establish our brand in the area. And I still get paid the same, so despite being a free service, you’ll still get the gold star treatment!” The estate agency is offering to sell clients’ homes for free, applicable for the first 100 clients instructed. The property must be placed under offer, the offer be accepted with lawyers instructed by 6pm on Friday 24 March and within a certain catchment area, which you can find on the website. I visit the office on the Friday of their first week having moved in and JohnPaul tells me: “We’ve already broken records in this area, and it’s a trend we plan to continue.” Charlie also feels positive about the impact they’ve made and tells me that the feedback they’ve had so far has been really good. “We’ve had neighbours on Foulser Road pop in and say ‘great, you’re here, it’s so nice to see such a good brand at the end of the road’. We’ve had the owners of local coffee shops pop in and offer us discount on coffees too. The reception so far has been better than expected,” Charlie says with a cheery grin. Marsh & Parsons Tooting, 29-31 Tooting Road, SW17 7TS, 020 8767 3655, marshandparsons.co.uk

A VERY IMPORTANT DECISION We pride ourselves on exceptional service and unrivalled market knowledge, with a global network of 417 offices across 58 countries that can showcase your property to the widest possible audience. Early indications suggest strong market conditions for 2016, so call us today on 020 3597 7670 to arrange your free market appraisal. Guide price: £895,000

Albion Riverside, Battersea SW11 An unusually large sixth floor one bedroom apartment situated in the iconic Albion Riverside. Bedroom, reception room, kitchen, bathroom. EPC: D. Approximately 79 sq m (851 sq ft). Leasehold: approximately 976 years remaining. riverside@knightfrank.com Office: 020 3597 7670

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

Guide price: £1,795,000

Albert Bridge Road, Battersea SW11 A beautiful two bedroom duplex apartment with park views and generous ceiling heights. 2 bedrooms (1 with en suite and balcony), bathroom, kitchen, reception room. EPC: D. Approximately 137 sq m (1,480 sq ft). Leasehold: approximately 990 years remaining. battersea@knightfrank.com Office: 020 3597 7670

City

OPENING DOORS IN 2016 We pride ourselves on exceptional service and unrivalled market knowledge, with a global network of 417 offices across 58 countries that can showcase your property to the widest possible audience. Early indications suggest strong market conditions for 2016, so call us today on 020 3597 7670 to arrange your free market appraisal. Guide price: £4,650,000

Centurion Building, Chelsea Bridge Wharf, Battersea SW8 A contemporary penthouse apartment with spectacular river views encompassing the bend in the river. 3 en suite bedrooms, guest WC, reception room, kitchen/dining room, utility room, balcony, 2 parking spaces. EPC: C. Approximately 214 sq m (2,304 sq ft). Leasehold: approximately 993 years remaining. riverside@knightfrank.com Office: 020 3597 7670

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

Guide price: £2,550,000

St John's Hill, Clapham Junction SW11 A unique four bedroom house finished to an exceptional standard throughout. 4 en suite bedrooms, kitchen/dining room, reception room, cinema, garden. EPC: B. Approximately 296 sq m (3,156 sq ft). Freehold. battersea@knightfrank.com Office: 020 3597 7670

City Mag Feb 15 PAGE 2 (BBCW Res Journ Lift Over) v3

20/01/2016 17:53:01

WHAT'S YOUR NEXT MOVE? We pride ourselves on exceptional service and unrivalled market knowledge, with a global network of 417 offices across 58 countries that can showcase your property to the widest possible audience. Early indications suggest strong market conditions for 2016, so call us today on 020 3597 7670 to arrange your free market appraisal. Guide price: £4,650,000

The Tower, St George Wharf, Nine Elms SW8 A unique larger than average three bedroom apartment on the thirtieth floor of this prestigious riverside building. 3 bedrooms (1 en suite), bathroom, guest WC, reception room, kitchen, winter garden, right to park. EPC: B. Approximately 222 sq m (2,385 sq ft). Leasehold: approximately 982 years remaining. riverside@knightfrank.com Office: 020 3597 7670

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

Guide price: £3,950,000

Chelsea Vista, Imperial Wharf, Chelsea, SW6 A spectacular, duplex penthouse apartment for sale with views of the Thames. 4 bedrooms (2 en suite), 2 bathrooms, guest WC, study, kitchen, reception room, dining room, 2 terraces. EPC: B. Approximately 261 sq m (2,815 sq ft). Leasehold: approximately 982 years remaining. riverside@knightfrank.com Office: 020 3597 7670

Resident's Journal Feb Riv Page 3 v4

21/01/2016 09:59:45

BBC

9:45

Riverlight Quay, Vauxhall SW8 A beautiful apartment to rent with direct river views This delightful two bedroom apartment to rent within the sought after Riverlight Quay development in Vauxhall has been finished to a very high standard. Accommodation comprises 2 good sized double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en suite), and a bright open plan kitchen and reception room as well as 2 balconies with outstanding views across the River Thames. Riverlight Quay benefits from 24 hour concierge as well as the convenience of a residents' gym and swimming pool. EPC: B. Approximately 99 sq m (1,062 sq ft). Available furnished Guide price: £875 per week KnightFrank.co.uk/RIQ232602

KnightFrank.co.uk/lettings riversidelettings@knightfrank.com 020 3597 7680

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

All potential tenants should be advised that, as well as rent, an administration fee of £276 will apply when renting a property. Please ask us for more information about other fees that may apply or visit KnightFrank.co.uk/tenantcharges

BBCW Residents Journal - Lettings - Feb 2016- RHP

22/01/2016 11:01:01

1 2

savills.co.uk

AMBLESIDE AVENUE, sw16

CULMSTOCK ROAD, sw11

Conservatory/kitchen ø playroom ø study ø dining room ø 6 bedrooms (1 en suite) ø 3 bath/shower rooms ø cloakroom ø cellar ø garden ø off-street parking ø 388 sq m (4,180 sq ft) ø EPC=D

Reception room ø kitchen ø master bedroom suite ø 4 further bedrooms ø 2 further bathrooms ø eaves storage ø cellar ø garden ø 184 sq m (1,979 sq ft) ø EPC=D

Guide £1.85 million Freehold

Guide £1.735 million Freehold

Savills Clapham mgreen@savills.com 020 8673 4111

Savills Northcote Road adwyer@savills.com 020 3428 2222

BURNS ROAD, sw11

ACRIS STREET, sw18

Reception room ø open plan kitchen ø master bedroom suite ø further bedroom ø bathroom ø south-facing roof terrace ø secure car parking space ø 143 sq m (1,586 sq ft) ø EPC=C

Reception room ø kitchen/breakfast room ø master bedroom suite ø 4 further bedrooms (1 en suite) ø roof terrace ø 27ft east facing-garden ø 159 sq m (1,708 sq ft) ø EPC=B

Guide £1.515 million Share of Freehold

Guide £1.295 million Freehold

Savills Battersea Bridge mshort@savills.com 020 3402 1900

Savills Wandsworth eseaton@savills.com 020 8877 1222

3 4

savills.co.uk

A FANTASTIC FAMILY HOME WITH ENVIABLE LIVING AND ENTERTAINING SPACE wexford road, sw12 Reception room ø drawing room ø kitchen ø master bedroom suite ø 5 further bedrooms ø 3 further bathrooms ø utility room ø cloakroom ø cellar ø garden ø off-street parking ø 385 sq m (4,140 sq ft) ø EPC=E

Guide £3.3 million Freehold

Savills Clapham Max Green mgreen@savills.com

020 8673 4111

IMMACULATELY PRESENTED DOUBLE FRONTED HOUSE hillbury road, sw17 Reception room ø kitchen/dining/family room ø master bedroom suite ø 5 further bedrooms (2 en suite) ø family bathroom ø basement ø cloakroom ø 44ft garden ø 389 sq m (4,192 sq ft) ø EPC=E

Guide £3.25 million Freehold

Savills Clapham Max Green mgreen@savills.com

020 8673 4111

savills.co.uk savills.co.uk

LETTINGS LETTINGS LAYOUT LAYOUT ONLY ONLY

NEWLY REFURBISHED FAMILY NEWLY HOME REFURBISHED FAMILY HOME badminton road, sw12 badminton road, sw12 4 bedrooms ø bathroom ø shower room reception ø room ø kitchen/breakfast room 4øbedrooms bathroom ø shower room ø reception garden øroom 139.3øsqkitchen/breakfast m (1,499 sq ft) room ø ø garden Councilø Tax= F øsqEPC=D ø 139.3 m (1,499 sq ft) ø Council Tax= F ø EPC=D

Flexible furnishings £795 per week + £282 inc VAT tenancy paperwork fee and Flexible furnishings £795 per week apply* +other £282charges inc VATmay tenancy paperwork fee and other charges may apply*

Savills Clapham CharlotteClapham Dover Savills cdover@savills.com Charlotte Dover cdover@savills.com 020 8772 6990

020 8772 6990

ONE BEDROOM FLAT IN ONE BEDROOM FLAT IN CLAPHAM NORTH CLAPHAM NORTH tremadoc road, sw4 tremadoc road, sw4 Bedroom ø bathroom ø reception room ø kitchenøøbathroom garden ø ø 65reception sq m (700room sq ft) Bedroom ø kitchen Councilø Tax=D øø EPC=D ø garden 65 sq m (700 sq ft) ø Council Tax=D ø EPC=D

Furnished £395 per week + £282 inc VAT paperwork fee and Furnished £395tenancy per week apply* +other £282charges inc VATmay tenancy paperwork fee and other charges may apply*

Savills Northcote Road Nathan Yendle Savills Northcote Road nyendle@savills.com Nathan Yendle nyendle@savills.com 020 3428 2224

020 3428 2224 *£36 VAT each reference *£36 inc inc VAT for for eachadditional additionaltenant/occupant/guarantor tenant/occupant/ where required. Inventory check out fee Inventory - charged at the end of or early guarantor reference where required. check *£36 inc VAT for each additional tenant/occupant/guarantor reference *£36 inc–VAT for each additional tenant/occupant/ termination of the tenancy and the amount is dependent on the out fee charged at the end of or early termination where required. Inventory check out fee Inventory - charged at the end ofproperty or early guarantor reference where required. check size andtenancy whether furnished/unfurnished. For more details of the the amount is dependent on the termination of theand tenancy the dependent on theincluding property out fee – charged at the and endfurnished/unfurnished. of amount or early istermination property size andfee, whether example inventory size and whether furnished/unfurnished. For more details including of the tenancy and thewww.savills.co.uk/fees. amount is dependent on the For more details, visit visit www.savills.co.uk/fees. propertyinventory size andfee, whether furnished/unfurnished. example For more details, visit www.savills.co.uk/fees. visit www.savills.co.uk/fees.

L L O

e ey yy yg g

savills.co.uk savills.co.uk

LETTINGS LETTINGS LAYOUT LAYOUT ONLY ONLY

A STUNNING FIVE BEDROOM A STUNNING FIVE FAMILY HOME OFFBEDROOM FAMILY HOME OFF BATTERSEA PARK BATTERSEA PARK kassala road, battersea kassala road, battersea 5 bedrooms ø 4 bathrooms reception ø room ø study 5øbedrooms 4 bathrooms kitchen/dining ø utility room ø reception roomroom ø study ø kitchen/dining patio garden øroom 184.7 m (1,988 ø sq utility room sq ft) Council Tax=G EPC=E ø patio garden øø 184.7 sq m (1,988 sq ft) ø Council Tax=G ø EPC=E

Unfurnished £1,600 per week + £282 inc VAT£1,600 tenancy fee and Unfurnished perpaperwork week other charges apply* + £282 inc VATmay tenancy paperwork fee and other charges may apply*

Savills Battersea Bridge Clare Hampson Savills Battersea Bridge champson@savills.com Clare Hampson 0203 430 6910 champson@savills.com

0203 430 6910

DESIRABLE FAMILY HOUSE IN DESIRABLE HOUSE IN THE HEARTFAMILY OF THE HEART OF WANDSWORTH WANDSWORTH st. ann's hill, wandsworth st. ann's hill, wandsworth 5 bedrooms ø 2 bathrooms double reception room ø kitchen ø garden 5øbedrooms ø 2 bathrooms 184.7 sq m (1,988 sq ft)ø kitchen ø garden ø double reception room ø 184.7 Council ø EPC=D sqTax=G m (1,988 sq ft) ø Council Tax=G ø EPC=D

Unfurnished £800 per week + £282 inc VAT£800 tenancy paperwork fee and Unfurnished per week other charges apply* + £282 inc VATmay tenancy paperwork fee and other charges may apply*

Savills Wandsworth CharlotteWandsworth Corner-Munroe Savills ccmunroe@savills.com Charlotte Corner-Munroe 020 8877 1222 ccmunroe@savills.com

*£36 VAT each reference 020 8877 1222 *£36 inc inc VAT for for eachadditional additionaltenant/occupant/guarantor tenant/occupant/ where required. Inventory check out fee Inventory - charged at the end of or early guarantor reference where required. check *£36 inc additional tenant/occupant/guarantor *£36 inc–VAT VAT for each additional tenant/occupant/ termination offor theeach tenancy and dependent on thereference property out fee charged at the endthe of amount or early istermination where required. Inventory check out fee Inventory - charged at the end ofincluding or early guarantor reference where required. check size and whether furnished/unfurnished. For more details of the tenancy and the amount is dependent on the termination of the tenancy and the amount is dependent on the property out fee – charged at the end of or early termination propertyinventory size andfee, whether furnished/unfurnished. example size and whether furnished/unfurnished. For more details including of tenancy and thewww.savills.co.uk/fees. amount is dependent on the Forthe more details, visit visit www.savills.co.uk/fees. propertyinventory size andfee, whether furnished/unfurnished. example For more details, visit www.savills.co.uk/fees. visit www.savills.co.uk/fees.

Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk

Fernlea Road, SW12 £799,000 Leasehold An exceptional, totally renovated, two bedroom flat. EPC: D Hamptons Balham 020 3285 7745

Polworth Road, SW16 £1,650,000 Freehold A substantial detached house measuring 3777 sq ft, in need of modernisation. EPC: E Hamptons Balham 020 3285 7745

Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk

Altenburg Gardens, SW11 £1,695,000 Freehold A beautifully presented 5 bedroom family home. EPC: D Hamptons Battersea & Wandsworth 02079242170

Barnard Road, SW11 £650,000 Leasehold A one bedroom apartment with roof terrace. EPC: C Hamptons Battersea & Wandsworth 02079242170

Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk

Manchuria Road, SW11 £1,650,000 Freehold A beautifully presented ‘between the commons’ family home. EPC: D Hamptons Battersea & Wandsworth 02079242170

Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk

The Chase, SW4 ÂŁ2,100,000 Freehold A stunning architect designed Victorian family home refurbished to an exceptionally high standard. EPC: C Hamptons Clapham

020 7498 8686

Chelsham Road, SW4 ÂŁ1,900,000 Freehold An attractive semi-detached family home with parking in the Sibella Conservation Area. EPC: D Hamptons Clapham

020 7498 8686

Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk

In recognition of our continuous search for ways to improve the service we deliver, and for the fourth year in a row, we have received the Gold Award for Best Large Agency. So, if you would like to work with an award-winning agent that provides you with realistic advice, the highest standards of personal and professional service, creative marketing and a leading network of 87 UK offices and over 7,000 international partner offices. Contact us today. Hamptons International Balham. Sales 020 3285 7744 Lettings. 020 3285 7745 Battersea. Sales 020 7458 4253 Lettings. 020 7458 4258 Clapham. Sales 020 7717 5439 Lettings. 020 7717 5441

hamptons.co.uk

H387-Awards-AD-A4P-BTS-BAL-CLP-MKT.indd 1

20/01/2016 16:31

Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk

Boundaries Road, SW12 £575 per week* Beautiful maisonette with 3 bedrooms. EPC:D Hamptons Balham 020 3285 7745

Foxbourne Road, SW17 £850 Per week* Beautiful 4 bed Heaver Estate family house. EPC:E Hamptons Balham

Balham Grove, SW12 £2,950 Per month* Superb, modern house in secure development. EPC:C Hamptons Balham 020 3285 7745

020 3285 7745

Lumiere Apartments , SW11 £375per week*

Coral Row, SW11 £550per week*

Eland Road, SW11 £975per week*

Wonderful one bedroom apartment. EPC: B Hamptons Battersea & Wandsworth 020 7458 4258

Stunning penthouse with spectacular views.EPC: D Hamptons Battersea & Wandsworth 020 7458 4258

Wonderful one bedroom family home. EPC: C Hamptons Battersea & Wandsworth 020 7458 4258

Francis Bentley Mews, SW4 £875 per week*

Lillieshall Road, SW4 £945 per week*

Hazlewood Mews, SW9 £3,350 per month*

A wonderful four bedroom home. EPC: C Hamptons Clapham 020 7627 5888

Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk

Charming four bedroom Victorian family home. EPC: D Hamptons Clapham 020 7627 5888

A wonderful four bedroom house. EPC: B Hamptons Clapham 020 7627 5888

Balham Hill, SW12 £385 per week* Spacious & modern one bedroom apartment. EPC:B Hamptons Balham 020 3285 7745

Balham Grove, SW12 £ 495 per week* Modern apartment with two double bedrooms. EPC: C Hamptons Balham 020 3285 7745

Prince of Wales Drive, SW11 £430per week* A truly lovely one bedroom apartment. EPC: C Hamptons Battersea & Wandsworth 020 7458 4258

Hillbury Road, SW17 £875 per week* Superb and spacious four bedroom house. Hamptons Balham

020 3285 7745

Brodrick Road, SW17 £1,200 Per week*

Lavender Gardens, SW11 £700per week*

A beautiful five bedroom family home. EPC: D Hamptons Battersea & Wandsworth 020 7458 4258

Exceptional two bedroom garden flat. EPC: D Hamptons Battersea & Wandsworth 020 7458 4258

Kings Avenue, SW4 £495 per week*

Clapham Common, SW4 £675 per week*

Elms Road, SW4 £1,850 Per week*

Newly completed 1 bedroom Townhouse. Hamptons Clapham 020 7627 5888

Newly refurbished 3 bedroom Penthouse. EPC: F Hamptons Clapham 020 7627 5888

A fabulous detached family house. EPC: D Hamptons Clapham 020 7627 5888

*Tenant Charges Tenants should note that as well as rent, an administration charge of £216 (Inc. VAT) per property and a referencing charge of £54 (Inc. VAT) per person will apply when renting a property. Please ask us for more information about other fees that may apply or visit www.hamptons.co.uk/rent/tenant-charges

Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk

Ravensbury Road, SW 18 A fully extended, by award winning builders, and beautifully presented 3 double bedroom house set in a desirable location close to the station and within school catchment areas. The property offers a good balance of sleeping accommodation and reception space as well as a landscaped South facing garden. EPC: D

£1,075,000 Freehold • • • • •

Earlsfield and Southfields Sales. 0208 939 2377 | Lettings. 0208 939 2388

Period property Two reception rooms Three bedrooms Beautifully decorated South facing garden

Wimbledon Park Road, SW18 The property comprises of a stunning kitchen with dining area with double doors opening on to a West facing garden, a beautiful bright reception room with a separate study / sixth bedroom on the ground floor, two large double bedrooms with the master benefiting from a luxury en-suite on the first floor along with a modern family bathroom, and a further two double bedrooms, a large single bedroom and a further bathroom suite located on the second floor. EPC: D

£6,500 PCM Long Let • • • • • •

Six bedrooms Stunning fitted kitchen Beautiful reception room Four bathroom suites Off street parking West facing garden

Thinking of moving out of London? Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re bringing the best properties to you.

THE

Roadshow

SATURDAY 12TH MARCH | 11AM - 3PM Join us for a comprehensive insight into where to move outside the capital. Regional experts offering one to one advice | A wealth of locations and properties to peruse Entertainment for the children | Refreshments Battersea & Wandsworth 98-100 Northcote Road, SW11 6QW | Blackheath 46 Tranquil Vale, Blackheath, SE3 0BD Chiswick 48 Turnham Green Terrace, W4 1QP | Earlsfield & Southfields 350 Garratt Lane, SW18 4ES Muswell Hill 256 Muswell Hill Broadway, N10 3SH For more details about the event or for a free market appraisal, please contact your local Hamptons branch or call 020 7265 6595

www.hamptons.co.uk Please dial in full. If you have already appointed another agent, you may be subject to a restrictive contract.

@JTEstateAgents |

COPY&PASTE

EBB&FLOW COFFEE&DOUGHNUTS BRAD&ANGELINA BUBBLE&SQUEAK

FAME&FORTUNE ROCK&ROLL

HIP&HOP

GIN&TONIC FISH&CHIPS

THE PERFECT MATCH FOR 25 YEARS GOLDIELOCKS&THETHREEBEARS SALT&PEPPER MOVERS&GROOVERS RHUBARB&CUSTARD

DOG&BONE CHEESE&WINE LAUREL&HARDY

&ICE

WIND

THELMA&LOUISE

BONNIE SUGAR& &CLYDE

SNOW&

SODA

EGG&BACON

TOM&JERRY

SPICE

HAMMERSMITH&CITY

EBONY&IVORY

MOON&STARS

ORANGES&LEMONS

APPLES

&PEARS

R&R

MAGIC&WONDER

ANT& YOU DEC &ME

THIS YEAR WE’RE CELEBRATING OUR 25TH ANNIVERSARY AND STILL GOING STRONG.

In 2015 we agreed 83% of the houses we listed “Between the Commons” Our nearest competitor (to coin their phrase) achieved 60%. WHAT’S OUR SECRET?

Well, some say we’re the perfect match; a unique family estate agent serving a unique family area. So if you want to sell (or let) your house, get in touch. And if you instruct us before July 31st you’ll get 25% off our standard fees. john-thorogood.co.uk | 020 7228 7474 | 140 Northcote Road SW11 6QZ *Figures are based on Rightmove data on agreed sales of houses between £1.25m and £2m in SW11 1 and SW11 6 between 1st December 2014 – 1st December 2015

FOR SALE

Honeywell Road Between The Commons SW11 £3,000,000|FREEHOLD • Detached & Double-Fronted • Gated Front Garden • Entrance Hall • Double Reception Room • Family Room Reception 3 • Ground Floor Study • Cloakroom/WC • Double-Height Glass • Extension • Kitchen/Dining Living Room • Utility Room

• 37’ x 32’ Rear Garden • Master Bedroom • En Suite Dressing Room • En Suite Bath / Shower Room • 5 Further Bedrooms • 2 Further Bath/Shower • Room/WCs • Eaves Storage • London Borough of Wandsworth • Residents’ Parking • 3073 SQ.FT 285.4 SQ.M

Detached, double-fronted and spectacularly designed, this substantial Victorian property, with one of the larger gardens on the street, has been transformed into a magnificent six-bedroom home for the modern family. It’s positioned just off fashionable Northcote Road on this highly prized stretch of road by Wandsworth Common, close to excellent schools (including everpopular Honeywell and Belleville) and good transport links. EPC - E.

@JTEstateAgents

john-thorogood.co.uk | 020 7228 7474 |140 Northcote Road SW11 6QZ

FOR SALE

Endlesham Road Nightingale Triangle SW12 £2,375,000|FREEHOLD • Impressive Frontage • Separate side entrance • Kitchen/Family Room • Double Reception Room • 4 Bedrooms • Office/Bedroom 5 • Family Bathroom • Shower Room • Utility Room • Boot Room

• Drying / Boiler Room • 88' Rear Garden • Bike Store • Potential for Extension • Residents Parking • London Borough of Wandsworth • 2271 Sq Ft / 211 Sq M

This detached, three-storey Victorian house is simply unique. Its impressive frontage, wonderful sense of light and spectacular, 88 ft south-west facing rear garden provide “wow” factor in spades. On the market for the first time in over 30 years and beautifully located on the corner of prestigious Nightingale Square, it has generous living spaces, huge potential for extension (subject to consents) and is crammed with original features. EPC - F.

FOR SALE

Broxash Road Between The Commons SW11 £1,625,000|FREEHOLD • Entrance Hall • Double Reception • Family / Kitchen / Dining Room • Cellar • Ground floor WC • South-facing Garden • Master Suite • 4 Double Bedrooms (total)

• Bathroom/WC • Shower Room/WC • London Borough of Wandsworth • Residents’ Parking • No Chain • 2110 Sq Ft 196.1 Sq M

This four bedroom, three bathroom, Victorian house, is on one of the prime roads between the commons and boasts an extended kitchen, a sunny south-facing garden, three modern bathrooms and beautiful original features. Positioned just 50 meters Clapham Common West side, it is ideally positioned for Clapham South underground station and within striking distance of Northcote Road and excellent schools. No chain. EPC - E.

Everything we do, we do it for you… This year John Thorogood celebrates 25 years on Northcote Road. We’ve come a long way since 1991. When I started, alongside just one person (none other than John Thorogood himself), it was a pre-computer age and we were in the throes of a nasty recession – not to mention suffering 16 weeks of torment at the hands of Bryan Adams’ “rock ballad’, “Everything I do…”. (Little did I know how much I’d come to identify with those lyrics). Though my hearing might be damaged, my competitive nature was undeterred and I set about trying to sell my way to fame and fortune.

John & Austin Thorogood (father & Son)

Thankfully, my father had quickly drilled into me that success in agency is not just about ‘listing’ a property and sitting back hoping for a sale. It’s about honest advice, expert local knowledge – and the service to back that up. Everything you do, you do it for your client. And ever since, our family-run company has adhered to that ethos to calmly navigate through a multitude of stable and unstable market conditions, brought on by a quarter of a century of recessions, wars, political U-turns and technological revolutions. In the beginning I never knew how much time I’d

John Thorogood Office 2016

spend wrestling with keys; rescuing cats; chasing mortgage companies; listening - really listening; petting dogs; scoffing at surveys; holding babies; mopping up floods, stepping over dirty socks; arguing with solicitors; giving feedback; being shouted at; showing understanding; problem solving; refereeing matrimonial disagreements; reading meters; hating alarms; seeing things I shouldn't; taking calls at all hours; waiting for people to show; being stood up; always being on call; feeding pets; but I’ve learned they’re all part of the service. More importantly, though, I never realised how privileged I’d be to watch families grow; visit beautiful properties; witness tears of joy; help dreams come true; watch champagne corks fly; meet so many good people and be thanked for doing a great job. They’re memories I treasure. Fast forward to 2016, and John Thorogood continues to effortlessly adapt to the ever-changing landscape – unlike Bryan Adams’ music. The “father and son” business has long since morphed into a “husband and wife” run firm, and the stick-on photos into a state-ofthe-art interactive touchscreen in our window. All the while our strong sales and lettings team, the core of which has been with us for over a decade, religiously subscribe to our founding ethos. So while I’m not in the business of predicting the market’s future (or our share in it), if we continue the client care and expert advice which underpin our reputation today, I see no reason why we won’t remain successful in years to come. But agents gauge success very differently. Many bust a gut

(and their name) trying to dominate overnight, hungry either for quick expansion or for selling out and moving on. Others are “proud to be independent” one minute and part of a chain the next. And the obsession they all have in common is listings. True enough - if you’ve got nothing to sell, you’re going nowhere fast. But one agent is so passionate on the issue they’re repeatedly moved to bluster about their high market share of listings despite many of their properties remaining unsold.

– data – specifically, to find the percentage of our total listings which we’d turned into agreed house sales in our local SW11 postcodes. I consulted Rightmove’s official information on the subject over the 12-month period to December 2015, and was delighted, but not surprised, to find that the statistics backed up our ethos completely. In fact, we agreed the sale of 83% of houses we listed Between the Commons at prices from £1.25m - £2m

Discounting agents who sold the one and only house they had to sell, we came out at the top of the pile by some distance. In fact, we agreed the sale of 83% of houses we listed Between the Commons at prices from £1.25m - £2m (which almost all are nowadays). Our nearest competitor (to coin their frequently used phrase) was at 60%. Some of the “bigger” agents were way down at 25%! Look above £2m in that area, plus the exclusive SW12 8 zone, and, despite stamp duty difficulties, our success is just as marked. Over that same period we agreed more sales and a greater percentage of our listings than any other agent.

Austin & Cara Thorogood

If you’ve got 50 houses to sell and you only sell 25, you’re failing half your clients. There’s a chasm of difference between listing and selling and I find this “scattergun” approach to agency distasteful.

if we continue the client care and expert advice which underpin our reputation today, I see no reason why we won’t remain successful in years to come.

The definition of an ‘agent’ is ‘a person who acts on behalf of another’ whilst ‘success’ is defined as ‘the accomplishment of an aim or purpose’. Combine the two and the successful agent is surely one who acts in the interests of all his clients and sells all the houses they list. Success is every client being pleased with the outcome of the sale. Tough to achieve but that’s what we strive for. So to discover how John Thorogood compared with its competitors, I delved into another trending obsession

A year or so ago I valued a house Between the Commons with an extra-large garden. The owner consulted seven other agents, who recommended he proceed with his plan to sell some of that garden to his neighbour for an agreed sum (£80k) and the house for £2m (the maximum he could achieve, they advised, because of stamp duty). We disagreed – and by selling the house with all the garden, his reward for following our advice was a sale at £2.3m, netting him £220k more than any other agent’s figures. A few months later we were instructed on a large family house in The Nightingale Triangle that one international agent had marketed for almost two years at £2.5m. Within two weeks we had sold it for more than their asking price. That client wrote to us afterwards and said, “You have a knack for selling houses, something not all agents share”. My point exactly. It’s everything we do. You can follow John Thorogood on Twitter @JTEstateAgents

To To celebrate celebrate opening opening in in Tooting, Tooting, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll sell sell your your home home for for free. free. Tooting TootingSales: Sales:020 0208767 87673655 3655 sales.too@marshandparsons.co.uk sales.too@marshandparsons.co.uk

Alderbrook Road SW12 £1,500,000 An immaculately presented, five-bedroom family home with a large garden, centrally located in the heart of the Nightingale Triangle. Freehold. EPC=C

• Spacious open-plan kitchen • Fireplace • Beautiful wooden floors • Impressively sized garden Balham Sales: 020 8673 4377 sales.bal@marshandparsons.co.uk

The The Spire Spire SW11 SW11£1,500,000 £1,500,000 An Animmaculately immaculatelypresented presentedthree-bedroom three-bedroomlateral lateralapartment apartmentwith withwonderful wonderfulviews viewsacross acrossLondon. London.EPC=C EPC=C Battersea BatterseaSales: Sales:020 0207228 72289292 9292 sales.bat@marshandparsons.co.uk sales.bat@marshandparsons.co.uk

Lambourn Lambourn Road Road SW4 SW4£750,000 £750,000 AAthoughtfully thoughtfullydecorated decoratedtwo-bedroom two-bedroomsplit-level split-levelVictorian Victorianconversion conversionininthe theheart heartof ofClapham ClaphamOld OldTown. Town.EPC=D EPC=D Clapham ClaphamSales: Sales:020 0207501 75013666 3666 sales.clp@marshandparsons.co.uk sales.clp@marshandparsons.co.uk

AAmm

Balham Balham Grove Grove SW12 SW12£750 £750per perweek week AAmodern moderntwo-bedroom two-bedroomhouse housespanning spanningthree threelevels levelsand andwith withaaprivate privateroof roofterrace terraceand andclose closeto toClapham ClaphamSouth. South.Freehold. Freehold.EPC=C EPC=C Balham BalhamLettings: Lettings:020 0208673 86734377 4377 lets.bal@marshandparsons.co.uk lets.bal@marshandparsons.co.uk

Lambourn Lambourn Road Road SW4 SW4£695 £695per perweek week AAcharming charmingthree-bedroom three-bedroomhouse houselocated locatedon onone oneof ofthe themost mostsought-after sought-afterroads roadsininClapham ClaphamOld OldTown. Town.EPC=C EPC=C Clapham ClaphamLettings: Lettings:020 0207501 75013666 3666 lets.clp@marshandparsons.co.uk lets.clp@marshandparsons.co.uk

sullivanthomas.co.uk Now part of the Carter Jonas network

CHIVALRY ROAD Clapham Junction SW11

A stunning, bright top floor flat with far reaching views across Wandsworth Common. It is part of a handsome Victorian re-developed mansion block, a quick 10 minutes from Clapham Junction and moments from Northcote Road.

Wandsworth Common

020 8682 3121 fiona.bourke@carterjonas.co.uk

Reception room • 3 bedrooms • Bathroom Kitchen • Access to communal gardens EPC rating C

£600 pw*/£2,600 pcm* *Rent excludes reference and tenancy paperwork fees. Please contact our branch who can provide this information.

HENDERSON ROAD Toastrack SW18

This wide, substantial family home of approximately 3750 sq ft (348.3 sq m) retains many beautiful period features and enjoys a considerable southfacing garden. Reception room • 6 bedrooms 3 bathrooms • Kitchen/family room Utility room • Media/entertainment room Loft • EPC rating E

Guide price £2,900,000

Wandsworth Common

020 8767 7711 jason.corbett@carterjonas.co.uk

NINE ELMS | SALES

EMBASSY GARDENS, NINE ELMS SW8 I £4,500,000 Leasehold An exclusive 15th floor penthouse (c. 191.5 SqFt / 2061 SqM) with private roof terrace affording breathtaking views of London’s skyline.

3 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms Reception Open Plan Kitchen Roof Terrace Parking

24hr Concierge Gym & Pool Library & Lounge Residents’ Club Business Centre In-house Cinema

Transport links: Underground & National Rail from Vauxhall, Battersea & Nine Elms (Northern Line extension coming soon)

Book your pre-completion appointment today: SaleNineElms@johnsand.co 0207 481 0600

www.johnsand.co | 0207 481 0600 | Nine Elms Office, Embassy Gardens, 8 Ponton Road, London SW8 5BA

JCO-SW-Resident-Ad-2016-01.indd 1

22/01/2016 16:55

JCO

NINE ELMS | LETTINGS

RIVERLIGHT, NINE ELMS SW8 I £825 per week + fees A delightfully spacious and light 11th floor apartment enjoying river views and impressive onsite fitness and leisure facilities.

2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms Reception Kitchen Two Balconies

CANARY WHARF T 0207 118 0200 E canarywharf@johnsand.co

16:55

JCO-SW-Resident-Ad-2016-01.indd 2

24hr Concierge Spa, Gym & Pool Indoor Golf Centre Residents’Library In-house Cinema

NEW PROVIDENCE WHARF T 0207 118 0343 E newprovidencewharf@johnsand.co

Transport links: Underground & National Rail from Vauxhall, Battersea & Nine Elms (Northern Line extension coming soon)

Find out more or book your viewing today: LetNineElms@johnsand.co 0207 481 0600

WAPPING LANE T 0207 118 0300 E wapping@johnsand.co

NINE ELMS T 0207 481 0600 E embassygardens@johnsand.co

www.johnsand.co

22/01/2016 16:55

LETTS SELL…TOGETHER your local estate agent… Sales

Lettings

Management

Finance

Long Hours

Competitive fees Personal service Professional sales team Local Knowledge

The market is moving…… How about you? Thinking of Selling or Letting your property? Contact us today to find out how we can help to market your property…

Vintage House 36-37 Albert Embankment London SE1 7TL Tel: 020 3189 0164 Email: admin@9elmscourt.co.uk Website: www.9elmscourt.co.uk

Free Valuations

Immediate Listings

Experienced Staff

Open Days

rymer-irens.com

Ramsden Road, SW12 | £1,750,000 000,035£Freehold | 71WS ,daoR notgnilruB Beautifully presented & well-proportioned throughout, ready to move satsege teuqila siuD .isilicaf alluN .rotrot sutcul tege ,otsuj allun ta alluN straight into, this three storey end of terrace family house offers five .euqsirelecs ainical alugil ,etatupluv rutibaruC .tidnalb ni surup double bedrooms, a charming 38ft garden and is conveniently positioned within Nightingale Triangle. owT | moordeb eerhT | nehctiK | noitpecer nalp-nepo egraL | llaH tf qs044,1 | gnikrap teerts-ffO | smoorhtab 2222 7678 020 no daoR euvelleB llaC

0Burlington 00,035£ |Road, 71WSW17 S ,daoR| n£530,000 otgnilruB

000,035£ Freehold | 71WS ,daoR notgnilruB Beira Street, SW12 | £675,000 0Burlington 00Share ,035£of|Road, 71WSW17 S ,daoR| n£530,000 otgnilruB Beechcroft Road, SW17 | £1,000,000 Freehold Extended the this satsegon e tboth euqila siuground D .isilicaand f allutop N .rfloors, otrot su tculcharming tege ,otsufamily j allunhome ta alluN provides excellent .euqsliving irelecsaccommodation ainical alugil ,etaand tupfour luv rubedrooms. tibaruC .tidnalb ni surup

Well-presented satsege teupurpose qila siuDbuilt .isilicVictorian af alNulla luN .rgarden o attrnulla ot suflat tjusto, culwith teg eget etwo ,otluctus sdelightful uj allu tortor. n ta alNulla luN facilisi. Duis alique double bedrooms, Common. .euqsclose irelecto s aClapham inical apurus lug il ,ein tablandit. tupluv ru Curabitur tibaruC .tvulputate, idnalb ni su ligula rup lacinia scelerisque

enaL elagnithgiN 98

Wandsworth Common XN8 21WS nodn020 oL 8767 2222 Balham 53:71 2102/21/30

9898 5408 02 0 8045 8989 020

daoR euvelleB 43 rymer-irens.com moc.sneri-remyr FEbellevueroad@rymer-irens.com 7 71WS nodnoL

22nightingalelane@rymer-irens.com 22 7678 020 RI_TempFINAL.indd 1

34 Bell Londo

020 8

1 ddni.LANIFpmeT_IR 53:5 73 1:71 2

rymer-irens.com

Hendham Road, SW17Road, | £2,095,000 Freehold Burlington 0SW17 0000,03,05|3£5 £530,000 £| 7| 17W 1W S ,Sda,doaRonRontg on tgilnruilB ruB

0Burlington 0000,03,053£5£|Road, 7| 17W 1SW17 W S ,Sda,doaRo | nR£530,000 ontg on tgilnruilB ruB

Exquisitely throughout, Hall |saDrawing room Family room |lu cilisi. Duis aliquet egestas satssaetgsepresented gte Nulla utq eu ila qat isla iu nulla sDiu.D isijusto, .liscialifcaeget fllthis u aN llu.luctus N rinterior-designed o.trroottrtortor. o sut tscuutlctuNulla el gtegfamily ,o efacilisi. t,soutjsa uhome ljlDuis u an llutn ahas aliquet taallu aN lluN egestas tssaetgsegte u tq eu ila qisl|a iu sDiu.D isi.lisroom cialifcaflNulla l|u aStunning N llu.N ro at.trro nulla ottro skitchen/dining/living ut tsjusto, cuutlctuel g eget teg,o etluctus ,soutjsa uljlu a tortor. n llutn a taalNulla aN lluNfacilisi. Duis alique five delightfulpurus a separate &taiadditional shower cinia scelerisque. .ebedrooms, u.q eu siq in resilblandit. reeclseacexcellent sinaicinCurabitur ailcaluaentertaining glu ilg,eilvulputate, t,aettuaptu lupvspace luru vligula triu btincluding airbualacinia Cru.tCid.tnid scelerisque. alnstunning ban lbi snui rsuuprup Five bedrooms.e|uFamily .q eu siq resilreebathroom clseacsinaicinailca(with purus luaglu ilg,e iin lt,aeblandit. ttuaptu lupvlWC) uru vCurabitur triu b rbuaCru.tCvulputate, id.tnid alnb an lbi snu ligula i rsuupruplacinia scelerisque. & extended kitchen/dining room, a secluded 108 ft rear garden and off room | Utility | Guest WC | Cellar | 108 ft rear garden | Off street parking | street parking. EPC: E | o2,300 (213.6 Three bedroom | Two owoTw|THall m| om o|o rdo Large erb deebeopen-plan reheTrh|T n|eh ncereception thiK ctiK | n|on ito p|ietKitchen cpeerce nralnpa-ln |peThree -p no epeogbedroom reagLra|L ll|aH lla| HTwo woTw|Tsq m| oft m oo rdoerb deebesq rehem) Trh|T n|Hall eh ncethiK c| tLarge iK | n|on itopen-plan o pietcpeerce nralnpa-reception lnpe-p no epeogreag|LraKitchen |L ll|aH llaH| Three bedroom bathrooms | Off-street tf qtfs0qparking 4s40,414,|1 g|n| g ik1,440sq nriakpratp eetft retes-rftfsO -ffO | sm | som oo rhotrahbtab Call Bellevue Road on 020 8767 2222 22222 72678670820 2n0ondoao dR aoeRuveeulvleB llellBaC llaC

tf bathrooms qtfs0q4s40,414,|1 g||ng iOff-street knriakpratp eetretesparking -rftfsO -ffO | sm || so 1,440sq m oo rhotrahbtaftb Call Bellevue 2222 2726Road 7867082on 0 2n0o 020 ndoa8767 o dR aoeRu2222 veeulvleB llellBaC llaC

Bright offering three Delightful & cilisi. Duis aliquet egestas satand ssaetgsecharming gte Nulla utq eu ila qat isla itwo u nulla sDiu.D istorey sijusto, .liscialifcaVictorian eget fllu aN llu.luctus N ro.trroohome ttrtortor. o sut tscuu tlctuNulla el gteg,o efacilisi. t,soutjsa uljbedrooms lDuis u an llutn aaliquet taallu aN lluN egestas satssaetgsfour egte utbedroom q eu ila qisla iusDiu.mid-terraced D isi.liscialifcaflNulla lu aN llu.N rfamily o at.trro nulla ottro shome, ut tsjusto, cuutlctuvery el g eget teg,well-presented o etluctus ,soutjsa uljlu a tortor. n llutn a taalNulla lu aN lluNfacilisi. Duis alique with potential the nearby Wandsworth cinia scelerisque. purus .eto u.q eextend u siq in resilblandit. reeclseinto acsinaicinCurabitur a ilcalloft uaglu ilg(subject ,eilvulputate, t,aettuaptu luto pvlurplanning u vligula triu btairbualacinia Cruconsents). .tCid.tnid scelerisque. alnban lbi snui rsuuprup fully extended, .eu .q eu siq resilreeto clsea csinaicinailcapurus luaglu ilg,Common. eiin lt,aeblandit. ttuaptu lupvluru vCurabitur triu btairbuaCru.tCvulputate, id.tnid alnban lbi snu ligula i rsuupruplacinia scelerisque. Hall | Double reception Hall | Double Three bedroom | Two owoTw|THall m| om o|o rdo Large erb deeroom beopen-plan reheTrh| |TExtended n|eh ncereception thiK ctiK |kitchen/dining n|on ito p|ietKitchen cpeerce nralnproom a-ln |peThree -p no e|pThree eogbedroom reagLra|L ll|aH lla| HTwo owoTw|Treception m| om oo rdoerb deroom ebereheTr|hExtended |T n|Hall eh ncethiK c| tkitchen/breakfast Large iK | n|on itopen-plan o pietcpeerce nralnpa-reception lnroom pe-p no epe|ogFour reag|LraKitchen |L ll|aH llaH| Three bedroom bedrooms | Bathroom | Cloakroom South/west |tab bedrooms | Two well-appointed tbathrooms Garden EPC: bathrooms | Off-street tf qtfs| 0Large qparking 4s40,414,|loft 1 g|n| g i|k1,440sq nriakpratp eetft retes-rftffacing sO -ffO | sm | garden som oo rhotrahb f bathrooms qtfs0q4s40,414,|1| g ||ng iOff-street knriakpra|tp e etretesparking -D rftfs|O -1,348 ffO | sm || sq so 1,440sq m oft o rhotrahbtaftb EPC: D | 1,410Call sq ft (130.9 sq m) (125.2 sq m) Bellevue Road on 020 8767 2222 22222 72678670820 2n0ondoao dR aoeRuveeulvleB llellBaC llaC Call Bellevue 2222 2726Road 7867082on 0 2n0o 020 ndoa8767 o dR aoeRu2222 veeulvleB llellBaC llaC

34 Bellevue Road London SW17 7EF

020 8767 2222 eT_IR 53:5 73 1:71 210221/0 22 1/2 31 0/30

eneanLae Lle algangin thi89 tghig N Nightingale iN 9898 Lane XN X8N8 212W 1W Sn SLondon ondondonLoLSW12 8NX

9899889854504020 8080208045 020 8989

dadoaRoR euevuevle lellBeB 4343 FEF7E717W 1W Sn S ondondonLoL

2222 276776878020020

rymer-irens.com mm oco.cs.nse nreir-ri-erm em yryr

03/12/2012 17:35 RI_TempFINAL.indd 1

34 Bell London

020 8

1 1 ddndi.dLnAi.N LA IFNpIm Fp em T_eIT R_IR

Ramsden Road SW12 ÂŁ2,350,000 Freehold

A family home offering a tremendous sense of both period and contemporary grandeur throughout. Covering over 3,300 sq. ft. of living space this house works exceptionally well for entertaining Balham Sales 020 8673 0191 | balhamsales@dng.co.uk friends and family.

South

Balham

Battersea

North

Chelsea

Fulham

Battersea Park

Clapham

East Putney

Hammersmith & Shepherdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bush

Kensington

6 double bedrooms, 3 bathrooms (1 en suite), 2 reception rooms, kitchen/dining room, media room, utility room, garden, EPC: D

Southfields & Earlsfield

West Putney

Kensington Gate

South Kensington

Notting Hill

Pimlico & Westminster

douglasandgordon.com

Bemish Road SW15 ÂŁ1,695,000 Freehold

A stunning, detached family home which is flooded with natural light throughout. The property has been beautifully refurbished to provide contemporary living and fantastic West Putney Sales 020 8785 6666 | wputneysales@dng.co.uk entertaining space.

5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en suite), double reception room, open-plan kitchen/dining room, utility room, garden, garage, EPC: E

Worfield Street ÂŁ1,400 per week Unfurnished

+ admin fees*

Battersea Park Lettings 020 7498 5243 | battpklets@dng.co.uk

South

Balham

Battersea

North

Chelsea

Fulham

Battersea Park

An immaculately presented family house located on a quite tree lined street, moments from the open-spaces of Battersea Park. The property is light and spacious throughout whilst retaining its period features.

Clapham

East Putney

Hammersmith & Shepherdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bush

Kensington

4 double bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, double reception room, utility room, garden, garden studio, EPC: D

Southfields & Earlsfield

West Putney

Kensington Gate

South Kensington

Notting Hill

Pimlico & Westminster

f e b ruary 2 0 1 6 â&#x20AC;˘ I s s u e 3 6

London property

We highly value your feedback: contact@residentsjournal.co.uk or 020 7987 4320

w w w. R e s i d e n t s J o urna l . c o . u k (020) 7987 4320

Proudly published by

RUNWILD MEDIA GROUP

Residential Sales Lettings & Developments I Property Management Corporate Services I Professional Valuations I Asset Management

Written for the residents of battersea | balham | clapham | wandsworth

FEBRUARY 2016 â&#x20AC;˘ Issue 36

w w w. R e s i d e n t s J o u r n a l . c o . u k 020 7987 4320