Belgravia Residents' Journal April 2016 by Runwild Media Group

Resident’s Journal

Written for the residents of BELGRAVIA april 2016 • Issue 47

Resident’s Journal APRIL 2016 • Issue 47

Knowledge. Integrity. Discretion. Of all our fine properties, these are the most valuable.

At Strutt & Parker, we have unrivalled knowledge of the finest properties in London’s most prestigious areas. We offer access to buyers from all over the world through our affiliation with Christie’s International Real Estate. And we provide a trusted and personal service. All of which has helped us become the leading agent for exclusive properties in Knightsbridge and Belgravia for the past three years. Call James Forbes on the number below. 66 Sloane St, London SW1X 9SH +44(0)20 3733 7754 | struttandparker.com

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

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

Proudly published by

RUNWILD MEDIA GROUP

55 Strutt & Parker offices nationwide | 1350 Christie’s offices worldwide

Dear Resident, If shoes are a girl’s best friend, then Manolo Blahnik must have a lot of friends. The legendary shoe designer speaks to the Journal about how he went from designing shoes for lizards out of sweet wrappers to stilettos for Sarah Jessica Parker. He also describes how, at the age of 73, when most people are hanging up their boots, he’s a long way off from retirement (page 11). If the way to a man (or woman’s) heart is through their stomach, then Anton Mosimann has all the answers. Celebrity chef, cook to four generations of the Royal family and Belgravian resident, Anton tells the Journal all about his star-studded career on page six. And finally, if you’re in need of a health and wellbeing boost, make sure you read our feature about Grace Belgravia (page 16) – who knew there are so many experts on the doorstep?

COVER: An illustration of Anton Mosimann, by Russ Tudor. Turn to page six for more information.

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 Belgravia. The Belgravia Residents’ Journal is published independently by Runwild Media Group with regular editorial contributions from Belgravian residents. Please do not hesitate to get in contact with your news; email: contact@residentsjournal.co.uk and Twitter users, make sure you follow us @thebelgravian Members of the Professional Publishers Association

[LOCAL INTEREST] Goody, Goody

Much to our delight, The Good Life Eatery opened its doors on Motcomb Street last month, so to keep the celebrations going, why not give some of its healthy recipes a go in your own kitchen? The Good Life Eatery Cookbook will hit the shelves on 28 April, so ready your kitchen for a flurry of gorgeous, fresh foodie ideas from co-founders Yasmine Larizadeh and Shirin Kouros. £20, The Good Life Eatery Cookbook, available from amazon.co.uk The Good Life Eatery, 20 Motcomb Street, SW1X 8LB, 020 7838 9172, goodlifeeatery.com

notebook

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

Hats off

Available for just one week from 18 April to honour the Queen’s 90th birthday, the Berkeley Hotel’s awardwinning Prêt-à-Portea afternoon tea will be launching treats with a regal twist. The Royal Collection will feature a range of biscuits, fancies and choux buns fashioned as delicious replicas of the most memorable hats and accessories sported by the Queen and the Royal Family. 18-24 April, The Royal Collection Prêt-à-Portea afternoon tea, The Berkeley, Wilton Place, SW1X 7RL, 020 7235 6000, the-berkeley.co.uk

Deck with HALL’S

Notting Hill’s fine jewellery retailer HALL has recently launched a range of beautiful jewellery pieces on the Harvey Nichols website, featuring the brand’s signature designs to showcase alongside an array of pieces from HALL Antiques. HALL was founded in 2014 and uses a variety of striking diamonds and gemstones in a range of stunningly modern designs. White gold diamond cuff, £650, Marquise double drop earrings, £975, available from harveynichols.com hall-collection.com

Fabulous fifties

In a fun, nostalgic musical called Forever Plaid, The Plaids go on a journey through some of the most celebrated closeharmony songs from the 1950s. Forever Plaid will feature old favourites such as Rags to Riches, Catch a Falling Star, Love is a Many Splendoured Thing and lots more that will definitely have you singing along to. Starring S Club 7’s Jon Lee alongside Keith Jack, Matthew Quinn and Luke Striffler, get ready for a hilarious and magical musical that will, at the very least, keep your toes tapping long after the curtain has gone down. 5-24 April, tickets £20-£30, please see website for show times, St. James Theatre, 12 Palace Street, SW1E 5JA, 0844 264 2140, stjamestheatre.co.uk

Welcome to Spring. Pop by your neighbourhood pub and enjoy our new spring menus featuring lighter and vibrant seasonal dishes. reservations@cubitthouse.co.uk

T H E T H O M A S C U B I T T • T H E A L F R E D T E N N Y S O N • T H E O R A N G E • T H E G R A Z I N G G OAT

the belgravian

[LOCAL INTEREST]

A modest man An OBE holder, chef to four generations of the Royal Family and the owner of the fine-dining institution that is Mosimann’s, Anton Mosimann tells the Journal all about his career to date francesca lee

Illustration by Russ Tudor

ne only has to look at the photographs spanning over many decades that adorn Mosimann’s dining club hallway to see that he has catered for many of the world’s most famous politicians, presidents and celebrities. Not only did he cater for the wedding banquet for Prince William and Kate in 2011, he has also cooked for four generations of the Royal Family. This photo collection is a museum piece in its own right. Born in 1947 in the Jura mountains in Switzerland to parents who were both chefs, Anton grew up in a foodie household. It was in his parents’ restaurant at the tender age of six that Anton had a lightbulb moment. “I loved the smell of cooking and it made me realise that I wanted to become a chef. I’ve never looked back – every morning I still get up and I feel excited to be doing what I’m doing.” Anton learnt a lot from his parents and recalls: “I used to go to the market every Saturday with my father where I

learnt how to choose fresh fish, meat and vegetables and he taught me how to select quality produce.” At the age of 15, Anton did an apprenticeship at a local hotel where he learnt some of the principles he still follows to this day. “I worked with two chefs; the head chef was a real gentleman and softly spoken, whereas his second-in-command used to shout in the kitchens.

The Queen Mother’s chefs asked me for the recipes That was when I realised how not to manage people, and it’s a value I stick by to this day,” he says. Stints in some of the Palace hotels in Switzerland followed (Villars. Lausanne, Montreux, St. Moritz and Lucerne), but Anton decided to travel around the world to gain the best experience possible. As well as working at the Rome Cavalieri, he worked at Fairmont The Queen

Elizabeth in Montréal, Canada, Japan and Belgium. However, he made an unusual move when he decided to return to Switzerland to learn more about his profession. “I had been promoted too many times, too quickly,” he tells me honestly. “I knew I had to learn more but it took a lot of courage to do that as once you’ve reached a certain position and earn a steady income, you don’t necessarily want to go back.” Making this brave move, he took an unpaid position and worked for a winter season in the pastry section at Gstaad Palace in Switzerland. This experience proved fruitful, especially when he was appointed maître chef des cuisines at the Dorchester in 1975 at the age of 28. “I was in charge of 132 chefs, 25 of whom were pastry chefs. The latter were especially surprised when I told them how to change their methods.” Supported by renowned hotelier Peter Stafford who treated Anton “like his son”, he and his team’s efforts were rewarded with two Michelin stars, and the

Queen Mother was clearly a fan as “she used to come to the Dorchester for lunch – and her chefs at Clarence House would write to me and ask for the recipes.” After a successful 13 years at the Dorchester, Anton decided to set up shop himself and opened Mosimann’s, a private dining club in a converted Scottish Presbyterian church. “I came here as a guest and loved it so much that I made a few phone calls, and six months later I was the new owner,” he says. Such is his credibility that brands including Lalique, Montblanc and Bentley line up to sponsor the private dining rooms. With many accolades under his belt, including an OBE for services to the tourism and food industries and a lifetime achievement award, Anton is currently working on establishing a cookery museum in Switzerland. “I want to share my experiences with other people,” he reflects. And what experiences he has had. 11B West Halkin Street, SW1X 8JL, mosimann.com 7

[LIFESTYLE]

[RESTAURANT REVIEW]

Park life

The Journal has a spring in its step as it heads to Inn the Park for a spot of lunch EMILY ADAMS

t’s a crisp spring day in St James’s Park; the daffodils have turned up for the occasion, the trees are sporting the first leaves of the season and bright-blue skies are filled with cotton-wool clouds. I’ve got a real spring in my step as I approach Inn the Park, a little lunch spot nestled between plants and ponds on the edge of this Royal Park. The design inside is simple, with wood panelling and 70s -style low-back leather chairs, separated into two types of dining: a ‘grab and go’ self-service section with an abundance of homemade treats sits on one side, with a fine-dining, waiting service on the other. When the sun is shining, on a day like this, Inn the Park is a honey pot, buzzing with activity – it’s extremely busy when I arrive, but as the lunchtime rush dies down, the atmosphere is spot on. Floor-to-ceiling glass gives beautiful views of St James’s Park and glimpses of the city’s landmarks – the London Eye and the ceremonial Horse Guards Parade watch over me from a distance as I tuck into my starter, a light salad with wafer-thin slices of avocado and lashings of fresh Dorset crab. It’s full of flavour and

unexpectedly generous in size. I have to stop myself from eating it all, because I’ve caught a glimpse of what’s next on the menu. It’s one of those ‘how-will-I-ever-tacklethat’ offerings; a hearty towering burger with a classic sesame-seed bun, full to bursting with every filling possible. It’s certainly not the lightest meal on the menu, and I’ve got serious food envy when the fish pie arrives at the table next to me, but once I’ve worked out how to tackle the feast, it’s a choice I’m glad I’ve made. It’s accompanied by a standout red onion, balsamic vinegar and red chilli salsa along with red cabbage coleslaw. I can see why it’s such a popular choice and why they’ve

Pimm’s is flowing like it’s a warm summer’s day sold out by the time I leave. Even the pigeons are getting fanatical over leftover crumbs outside. The restaurant prides itself on using the finest British produce for its seasonal dishes, and

the result is noticeable. Everything is light, fresh and pleasingly simple, but if you take a trip to Inn the Park and try just one thing on the menu, I’ve got two words for you: ‘treacle’ and ‘tart’. If only I had the recipe. Meanwhile, raspberry Bellinis are being served left right and centre and the Pimm’s is flowing like it’s a warm summer’s day. It really is the place to come for a leisurely lunch, and I can practically feel the warmer weather and al fresco dining making their way to St James’s Park. There’s a genuine feeling of optimism in the air; spring is here. St James’s Park, SW1A 2BJ 020 7451 9999 innthepark.com

Go Commando at the Mess Hall Mon â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Fri open to 9pm

1 4 E c c l e s t o n ST R E E T , B E L G R A V I A , S W 1 W 9 LT Te l : 0 2 0 7 7 3 0 1 8 4 5

MOTCOMB STREET PARTY 2016

IT’S COMING WEDNESDAY 22ND JUNE 2016

streetparty@motcombs.co.uk www.motcombstreetparty.co.uk o f f i c i a l m e d i a pa r t n e r s

supporting the household cavalry foundation

and the lullaby trust

If you’d like to become a Sponsor, please contact Sue Liberman – streetparty@motcombs.co.uk who will be delighted to discuss how you can proceed with this fantastic opportunity.

[LIFESTYLE]

[interview]

Sole

man Manolo Blahnik puts his best magenta slippered foot forward and tells the Journal why he won’t be retiring anytime soon lauren romano

anolo Blahnik knows how to make an entrance. He is dressed in a double-breasted suit, the Pantone shade of which might best be described as Parma violet purple, accessorised with round tortoiseshell glasses, a polkadot bow-tie, light lilac socks and loafers in shocking pink. He flicks a cashmere scarf over his shoulder with a toss of the head (Mr Blahnik has been under the weather, his PR team tells me) and begins to embrace those assembled outside his new Burlington Arcade store. Rather than a roll-call of young, leggy models recruited for the occasion, the Blahnik entourage includes Vogue’s Suzy Menkes, a radiant Yasmin Le Bon in neon-yellow trimmed stilettos and the eminent classicist Mary Beard. The designer and Ms Beard (Mr

Blahnik has a habit of referring to people by their titles) have spent many a happy hour together collating all the Greek words for shoe (there are more than 82, apparently). Beard even contributed to Manolo Blahnik: Fleeting Gestures and Obsessions, an illustrated tome documenting his life’s work – so far – which was released last summer. Despite his flamboyant attire, Blahnik is not the septuagenarian showman you might expect. His

eccentricity is lightly worn, and while far from being taciturn – on the contrary he is delightfully blunt and meanders off topic regularly – he is also humble, even a little bashful at all the attention. Blahnik opened his first boutique in Old Church Street, Chelsea, in 1973 when the likes of Marianne Faithfull, Bianca Jagger, Charlotte Rampling, Lauren Bacall and David Bowie would buzz for admittance. Talking about his new Burlington Arcade store, he says: “I have been looking for the right place for a while,” he admits with a slight shrug when quizzed about why it took him so long to find a location for his second premises in the capital. “Besides, I have always loved this magical place – all these shops 11

with their beautiful cashmere. I love the tradition and history. I remember falling completely for the arcade the very first time I visited London.” Designed by Jino Murad, a former interior designer for Harrods, the double-fronted premise is accessorised with silk lamps, ottomans in aquamarine, violet and mustard yellow and Corinthianstyle pillars. Monochrome-striped stilettos, tangerinetoned cut-out heels and rainbow-hued sandals from the S/ S16 collection share the brass plinths with classic pieces, while upstairs sits a private room where orders for customised items can be taken. Despite being in the business for more than four decades, Blahnik still does things the way he always has. He visits the factories in Italy regularly to make the prototypes – “it’s probably my favourite time of the year” – and always keeps a notebook at arm’s reach to sketch his bright, freehand drawings at a moment’s notice. Blahnik’s obsession with shoes (his Bath townhouse is reportedly home to 30,000 pairs, since he keeps every single one of his designs) began during his childhood. He grew up in Santa Cruz de la Palma in the Canary Islands where his mother’s family owned a banana plantation. “I remember being obsessed with my nanny’s espadrilles when I was a small child. I used to play with my dogs and the little lizards that we had in the garden, and I’d make shoes for them out of candy wrappers,” he

“I’m very lucky because I can still say the Manolo Blahnik woman is every woman” chuckles. He reminisces that his bedtime stories consisted of Enid Blyton and Charles Dickens, and his Czech father was a Winston Churchill-loving Anglophile, so it was only a matter of time before he ended up in the British capital. However, it was a chance encounter with American Vogue editor-in-chief Diana Vreeland in New York that persuaded him to focus on footwear instead of costume and set design, which he had studied at the École du Louvre in Paris. “I will always be grateful for Ms Vreeland’s advice and support,” he adds, humbly. “She did great things for this industry and changed the way fashion was perceived. She was a visionary.” Blahnik is dismissive of trends – surprising given that the industry holds him in such esteem. “I like to have the freedom to do what really inspires me. That is the beauty of

[LIFESTYLE] my job.” His inspiration is more likely to come from a book, his extensive film archive or women such as (Karl Lagerfeld’s muse) Amanda Harlech and actresses Uma Thurman and Ángela Molina. “They all have something unique. They are elegant and carry themselves in an exceptional way.” As talk turns to the past, it’s hard to ignore the brand’s most obvious moment in the spotlight. ‘Manolos’ were cemented in the public consciousness by a certain Carrie Bradshaw who was rarely seen out of Blahnik’s stilettos in Sex and the City – something he flits away with a smile and an “of course, I’m very grateful” response. His longevity in the industry, he believes, is down to his universal appeal. “I am very lucky because I can still say the Manolo Blahnik woman is every woman. We have new customers who save up to buy their first pair for their wedding, or young girls who have seen their mothers wearing the shoes. And of course we still have the beautiful women who have been buying from us every season for 40 years. I like to think, no matter what their age, they will find something they like.” The ’70s will always be rose-tinted for Blahnik. His big break came in 1971 when fashion designer Ossie Clark asked him to design the footwear for his catwalk show. He made the shoes with rubber heels without using steel to reinforce them, which meant they were precarious to walk in. Thankfully, the fashion editors took the

teetering models to be a deliberate move and he got away with it – just – and soon the likes of Jean Muir, Zandra Rhodes and John Galliano were banging on his door. Near twisted ankles aren’t part of the equation now. “Perfect balance, perfect proportion” is essential for Blahnik. Such is his fastidiousness that I can imagine him trying on the designs in the factory. He insists that it’s actually the comfort factor that sets his heels apart from towering stilettos nobody can walk in, or, heaven forbid, “detestable platforms”. (These are only OK if you’re wearing a long dress, so you can’t see them.) “Feeling comfortable” is his personal mission too. You won’t catch Blahnik eyeing up the crab doughnuts at Chiltern Firehouse – or “that Fire place” as he refers to it (and its reportedly infernal temperatures). His haunts include Anderson & Sheppard for suits, The Wolseley for tea, or Bibendum or Wiltons for lunch (not dinner, he might fall asleep). Speaking of sleep, he rarely gets more than five hours a night. “I never relax!” he exclaims. “I’m always working, even at the weekend. I can’t switch off. I am inspired by so many different things or situations that I need to stop what I’m doing and sketch my ideas. Without hard work, you see no results. You must believe in what you do, put all your passion into it. If you don’t believe in it, no one else will. “Who knows what this year will bring. I don’t even know myself. I am always surprised by how many things happen in one year without even planning it,” he concludes, matter-of-factly. Retirement, for now at least, is clearly a dirty word, so I don’t dare broach the subject. Mr Blahnik is still the life and sole (sorry) of his empire and no doubt he’ll be striding ahead, one shocking-pink loafer in front of the other, for some time to come. Available from Harrods, 87-135 Brompton Road, SW1X 7XL, manoloblahnik.com 13

[spotlight on...]

The architect for

your home From a two-man band to a thriving 20-person team, the Journal finds out how Jo Cowen Architects is transforming south-west London, one house at a time EMILY ADAMS

itting inside the offices at Jo Cowen Architects, surrounded by soft grey tones and herringbone floors, the room is flooded with light. It’s crisp, clean and contemporary and everything I’d want in my own home, but trying to recreate that perfect look myself would be a daunting task. Fortunately, Jo-anne Cowen and her team are on hand to deliver exactly what their clients want. “We don’t have a specific ‘house’ style – we try to work as closely as possible with each client to understand their vision for their project – and then we use our skill and experience to maximise that vision architecturally,” she says. For Jo-anne, who set up the south London company five years ago to cater for the high-end residential market, it’s all about clients and giving them a complete architectural and interiors service. “I get so much enjoyment out of meeting a family, getting to know them and then designing spaces around

them,” she says, before adding: “We’re not simply designing spaces for photographs, we’re also designing spaces to be lived in.” Having worked on high-profile projects such as the redevelopment of the British Museum, the Leadenhall Building, and the Merano Tower for St James’, Jo-anne is no stranger to largescale developments. Both she and

her co-director Chris Wilkinson were associates at celebrated international architectural practice Rogers Stirk Harbour & Partners, and before that Jo-anne was at Foster & Partners. It is this experience, she tells me, that helped her when setting up her own practice. “The rigour, high design standards and efficiency we learned in large-scale practices informs all our work here,” explains Cowen. But now it’s clear that whether it’s a developer, a family,

[PROMOTION] a project, from early site evaluation onwards.” Such strong relationships with these businesses mean that Jo Cowen Architects is entrusted with jobs right from the start, safe in the knowledge that it will do the right thing by the property. One good thing leads to another, and as their reputation has grown, so too has their portfolio. “We even have families where we’ve done houses for them and end up doing their second homes too. We have loyal clients and, because of it, the practice has grown from word-ofmouth,” Jo-anne says warmly. “Once we do one house in the street, we tend to do both the neighbours’ houses too,” she adds.

“The rigour, high design standards and efficiency we learned in large-scale practices informs all our work here” or a young professional that they’re dealing with, the focus is always on the client, their requirements and timescales. “That’s what makes us unique: we are both very hands-on and we work extremely closely with each client, listening to their needs as well as offering our ideas – it’s always a collaborative process.” In just five years since the firm was set up, Jo-anne has developed a reputation for delivering the highest quality finished product but with a personal service. From a single standalone house up to multi-million pound developments, the practice is known for its extensive work in south-west London. So what is to thank for the company’s quick rise to success? “We’ve grown to where we are today partly because of the trust we’ve gained from leading estate agents,” explains Jo-anne. “We work really closely with local agents like John D Wood & Co, Savills, Knight Frank, Chestertons and Strutt & Parker at all stages of

“There’s a common misconception that architects cost the client more money,” she continues, “but actually a good architect will protect their clients and ensure that they are paying the right price for what’s being done.” Put simply she says: “Being a good architect is being really clever with money, creating value for money,” and what client doesn’t want that? Speaking of money, we move on to the subject of the current cost of stamp duty and, with it, the growth of their market, as people choose to add space and value to their home rather than buying and selling. “On a standard traditional terrace house,” Joanne says, “we can double the square footage.” It’s no wonder the business is growing so rapidly when she tells me they’ve made 197 successful planning applications in just three years. “We’re planning experts,” she says – there’s no arguing with that. Jo Cowen Architects LTD, Burlington House, 184-186 New King’s Road, SW6 4NF, 020 7371 0357, jocowendesign.com 15

[health and wellbeing]

For the good of

grace

The Journal speaks to six Grace Belgravia practitioners francesca lee 16

ou may remember our Belgravian profile piece on Kate Percival back in October 2015 – she is the mastermind behind Grace Belgravia, London’s leading health, wellbeing and lifestyle club for women. The idea for the club started when Kate decided on a career change and studied for a master’s degree in luxury brands and services at the International University of Monaco. While writing her thesis, she came up with the concept of helping women on a different scale, which became her business plan for Grace Belgravia. As a central hub for wellbeing, one of the main strands of Grace Belgravia is the Grace Medical and Wellbeing Clinic (membership to the club is not obligatory). Led by Dr Tim Evans, who is the apothecary to The Queen, there’s a team of experts on hand who advise men and women over the age of 21 on a full range of services. The Journal speaks to six Grace Belgravia practitioners to find out more…

[LIFESTYLE] Fiona Grant Clinic nurse at The Infusion Clinic

Gabriela Peacock Nutritionist

Results speak for themselves, and Gabriela certainly looks glowing when we meet her. After working as a model for 15 years, she had a career switch and went from travelling around the world to studying nutrition. “I’ve always found nutrition interesting. There’s so much information available but also a lot of confusion about what’s healthy and what isn’t. I am very interested in diet and how it affects people’s health. It’s about looking after yourself from the inside out,” she says. From an initial consultation, Gabriela uses a range of diagnostic tools to identify imbalances and then tailors each programme to the individual. But what does she find are the most common issues that clients come to her about? “The top one is weight management but I also see people with digestive issues and food intolerances.” As well as seeing clients, Gabriela has launched her new range of supplements which can be switched from week to week depending on how the client is feeling.

Dr Rabia Malik Dermatologist

With a background in general medical practice, Dr Malik focuses on skin rejuvenation.

Specialising in non-invasive and non-surgical procedures, she works alongside the other Grace Belgravia practitioners; Gabriela, in particular. “I’m a big believer in internal health being reflected in the skin, and Gabriela and I have a lot of patients in common. Gabriela focuses on the inside, while I look at the skin and what products or treatments would work best for the client’s skin,” she says. Offering everything from mesopeels to oxygen infusions, Dr Malik’s dermatolgical knowledge ensures that anyone who sees her is given a bespoke skin solution plan. But what does she like most about working at Grace Belgravia? “The great thing about Grace is we have a comprehensive team – it’s very holistic, we’re integrated and it’s nice to work with other practitioners. It’s about bringing together the best people in their fields and being able to look after all of our clients in one space.”

Katalin Cziranku Colon hydrotherapy

Katalin likes her job so much she says it doesn’t feel like a job. “For me, I do love what I’m doing, so it doesn’t feel like work,” she tells me. As an experienced international colon health specialist and detox expert, she focuses on intestinal cleansing. “A lot of people don’t realise how important the health of the colon is for overall wellbeing and vitality; they might put various symptoms down to ageing, tiredness or stress. Awareness just isn’t there,” she says. As a health educator within her field and talking to the media at medical conferences, as well as through her work at Grace, she’s: “Changing the world one colon at a time”.

Fiona utilises an interest in nutrition and wellbeing, to work alongside one of Europe’s leading environment and nutritional specialists Dr Shideh Pouria at The Infusion Clinic. Clients have a range of infusions to choose from depending on how they’re feeling. “The benefits of an IV infusion far outweigh oral supplements,” Fiona tells us. “With the latter, around 80 per cent of vitamins are destroyed in the gut so you’re not getting maximum absorption, whereas through an IV drip you do. It’s the quickest and easiest way to get all the vitamins you need to maintain optimum health and we’ve had people come away saying that they feel like a new person straightaway!”

Elaine Slater Psychologist and psychotherapeutic counsellor

Elaine studied for an MA in psychology in 1998. As well as being a member of the medical team at Grace Belgravia, she is the resident psychologist for The British Fashion Council at London Fashion Week. She treats a variety of wellbeing problems, mental health issues and psychiatric disorders. “My work goes from life management and wellbeing through to more serious issues. The work is on an on-going basis and I help patients to overcome whatever difficulty they’re facing.”

Dr Shideh Pouria Allergies and functional medicine

Dr Pouria raises awareness of the way our bodies interact with factors such as environmental toxins, microbes, lifestyle and dietary habits. Good nutrition, and avoiding toxic substances in food and water all play a part in ensuring optimum health. Dr Pouria identifies risk factors, such as mineral and vitamin deficiencies, the presence of toxins and allergies and creates tailor-made treatment plans. Her approach is based on the concept of cause and effect. For more information about the whole range of services, please contact Grace Belgravia, 11c West Halkin Street, SW1X 8JL, gracebelgravia.com 17

[LIFESTYLE]

Prime of life

Tan-tastic Francesca Lee reviews the Signature Tan by James Read Being blonde-haired, blue-eyed with fair skin, I look like a ghost during the winter. Many a time I’ve had to explain that I am not ill; it’s just my skin tone. So because of this I’ve tried every fake tan going but with differing results. Once I looked like I had been Tango-ed. So you can imagine my apprehension when I book myself into Urban Retreat. But being in Harrods, what can go wrong? Opting for the Signature Tan by James Read, I choose to have two applications (I’m not sure I’ve learnt my lesson), but I’m promised that I’ll have a Caribbean glow rather than look nectarine-orange. My tan quickly develops as I leave. Unfortunately the tan-resistant cream doesn’t work on the inside of my hands so it develops there too. At home I take a shower (which the therapist advised if I didn’t want to go any darker) and this also helps to wash off that inevitable self-tan biscuit smell. Five days later, and despite a few niggles, I’m pleased with my glow. I’m sun-kissed and it doesn’t look fake. And everyone keeps telling me how well I look. Bonus. From £30, James Read Tan at Urban Retreat, 87-135 Brompton Rd, SW1X 7XL, harrods.com

All-round beauty guru and highly-regarded facialist Lisa Franklin has released her first product from her self-titled range and, it’s called, drum roll please: the ProEffect Luminescent Base. With more than 15 years of experience in the skincare and cosmetics industry, something tells us Lisa knows what she’s doing, and this soft, creamy primer gives flawless coverage. With its blend of diamond and platinum particles, frankincense and rose quartz, this base boosts the skin’s radiance and reduces redness. £70, Hans Clinic, 43 Hans Place, SW1X 0JZ, lisafranklin.london

[news]

health & beauty All the latest luxury beauty products you’ll need this spring Scentsational

We can’t walk down Elizabeth Street without being drawn into sweet-smelling Les Senteurs, home of all things fresh and fragrant. This season it’s launching a UK inclusive in the form of Les Eaux Primordiales, a new Parisian brand created by Arnaud Poulain, featuring six scents for men and women. Arnaud has created a collection that aims to reinvent some of the most classic and forgotten fragrances. We love the sound, and smell, of Abstraction Raisonnée, a sharp and fresh rhubarb scent with notes of mango and passion fruit. £124 for 100ml, 71 Elizabeth Street, SW1W 9PJ, lessenteurs.com

G rGar ca ec emme eddi ci caall. . m e d i cpi rneev fe on rtatm ievne amnedd iwc ionme e n . afnodr smoe nm ua cn hd w m oo mr ee .n . and so much more.

medical practice dedicatedtoto OurOur medical practice is isdedicated improving and prolongingyour yourhealth health improving and prolonging wellbeing the widestsense. sense. andand wellbeing in in the widest Preventative medicine and Preventive medicine and ageing well is ageing well is our ethos. our ethos.

Whether you areare looking Whether you lookingfor fora aGP, GP, acupuncture, bio-identicalhormone hormone acupuncture, bio-identical therapy, colonic hydrotherapy, therapy, colonic hydrotherapy, genetic testing, emotionalwellbeing, wellbeing, genetic testing, emotional physiotherapy or simply a pick-me-up physiotherapy or simply a pick-me-up in in our Grace Infusion Clinic, there are our Grace Infusion Clinic, there are so so many ways we can your help health to many ways we can enhance enhance and youremotional health andwellbeing. physical and physical and emotional wellbeing.

We can also create a personalised programme designed your We can also create aaround personalised programme around your goals, whether designed itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s managing stress, goals, whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s managing stress, losing weight, getting fit, improving losing getting fit, improving sleep orweight, just feeling happier and sleep or just feeling happier and healthier all round. healthier all round.

T o fTion df i no du to umto mr eo raeb ao buot u ot uoru rf uflull l r a n rg ae nog fe so ef rsveircveisc,e sp ,l ep al esae s ce aclall lu su so no n 0 2 00 72 20 3752 3859 08 09 0e0x et x2t o2 ro er me amiali l m e dmi ce da ilc@a lg @ r ag cr ea bc ee bl ge lrgarvai va i. ac .ocmo m

Grace Medical and Wellbeing Clinic 11a West Halkin Street, SW1X 8JL gracebelgravia.com

[CULTURE]

[dna]

the origins

Professor Bryan Sykes is at the forefront of the DNA industry as the Journal finds out FRANCESCA LEE

hen I think of a professor, my mind instantly conjures up a man in a lab coat holding test tubes with smoke mysteriously rising from concoctions he might be creating. I think I have been watching too many films or too many episodes of The Big Bang Theory. When I meet Professor Bryan Sykes at The Athenaeum Club on Pall Mall, I can confirm that he matches my preconceptions of what I think a professor might look like, minus the lab coat and test tubes, of course. A world-renowned expert in ancient DNA who’s at the forefront of this exciting industry, Professor Sykes of Human Genetics and, importantly, the University of Oxford has worked on many high-profile cases over his career, including that of the Cheddar Man; the name given to the remains of a human male found in Gough’s Cave in Cheddar Gorge, Somerset, as well as the many individuals who have claimed to be surviving members of the Russian Royal Family and more than a smattering of celebrities. “I am fascinated by our descendants, and over the past 10 years my team and I have developed the most complete DNA 20

Painting of Ursula by Ulla Plougmand, ulla-art.com

Professor Sykes is a world-renowned expert in ancient DNA family tree; I can trace any person back to what I have named The Seven Daughters of Eve,” he says. The professor wrote his aforementioned best-selling book on his findings, which describe the ancestry of how each person can be traced back through seven women. The professor and his team discovered the link between surnames and Y-chromosomes, which has since gone on to become the mainstay of genetic genealogy. Setting

up Oxford Ancestors in 2001 with the help of the University of Oxford, Bryan has developed a product whereby anyone can have their DNA analysed. The Journal tested it out: When I first heard I could trace my ancestors back tens of thousands of years, I confess I was more than interested. I was given a simple swab test, which was then processed in the lab in Oxford; and after being analysed, I was sent a very interesting package.

This included everything from my DNA sequence to The Golden Thread which shows how every European is connected to Eve. I discovered that I am descended from Ursula and I’m a member of the Ursula clan (of which only 11 per cent of modern Europeans are descended) and received full information about her story, as well as the professor’s book on this fascinating subject. It was a very interesting read and is ideal for anyone who has ever wondered who they are and where they came from. oxfordancestors.com

[LOCAL INTEREST]

[column]

RESIDENTS’ CULTURE Sue Liberman brings us her monthly Belgravian musings

Belgravia in Bloom 23–28 May In addition to the shop windows in Belgravia’s favourite shopping destinations coming alive to celebrate both Belgravia in Bloom and the Queen’s 90th Birthday, the traders have some fabulous treats in store for us all. More to follow next month.

Motcombs Restaurant & Bar

In addition to a wonderful floral window display, Motcombs will have a special menu for the week of Belgravia in Bloom, which owner Philip Lawless said will be at mouthwatering prices. I’m sure tables will be in high demand, so please call 020 7235 6382 or visit motcombs.co.uk

Judith Blacklock Flower School

Judith is hosting wreathmaking classes at her flower school. Each class will be one and a half

hours long where you can release your creativity with guidance from Judith. There will be a £20 charge for the cost of the materials, and you can take your wreaths home with you. A glass of Prosecco will also be provided by Judith. For reservations, call 020 7235 6235 or visit judithblacklock.com

The Belgraves Hotel

The hotel’s team have plans for a creative floral display, and celebrity chef Sophie Michell is “cooking up” some very special menus for the week of Belgravia in Bloom. In addition if, like me, you enjoy afternoon tea, do book early for its Belgravia in Bloom afternoon tea. For reservations, call 020 3189 4850 or visit pontst.com

sweets & cocktails

The Alfred Tennyson (Motcomb Street), The Thomas Cubitt (Elizabeth

Street) and The Orange (Pimlico) will be offering floral-based desserts and cocktails throughout Belgravia in Bloom. cubitthouse.com

Rococo Chocolates

In addition to creating a special window display, Rococo is hosting an exhibition of Sue Snell’s floral art in its Motcomb Street store for the week of Belgravia in Bloom. I’m sure they’ll also have some very special chocolate treats for us all! rococochocolates.com

Neill Strain Flower Lounge

Neill will be hosting an Orchid Extravaganza for the week of Belgravia in Bloom, and his store will be completely transformed with an exhibition of rare and unusual orchids. An amazing tropical paradise with a royal theme. neillstrain.com

Louise Kennedy

The team at Louise Kennedy are busy designing a very special Belgravia in Bloom floral window

display for the spring/ summer collections. louisekennedy.com

Grace Belgravia

The entrance of Grace Belgravia will be transformed with a wonderful royal-themed floral display. gracebelgravia.com

Mosimann’s

Mosimann’s is thrilled to be part of Belgravia in Bloom and will have a stunning floral display. mosimann.com

GUIDED WALK

Retailer activity will be listed in a walking guide, which will be distributed in Belgravia and surrounding areas. More updates to follow, but in the meantime see grosvenorlondon.com

A note to Belgravia Residents

If you’d like to be involved in Belgravia in Bloom, simply decorate your front door or property entrance with seasonal floral displays. An award will be handed out to the best residential property.

If there’s anything you would like me to know about, I can be contacted on 07957 420 911 or on sue@sueliberman.com

Dusting Maggie

Knightsbridge Underground

[interview]

The bigger

picture Painter Lucy Dickens tells the Journal about her fascination with people watching, her finest artwork to date and her famous family EMILY ADAMS

ucy Dickens comes from a long line of creative individuals. Her sister is an accomplished sculptor, her mother has always loved to paint and her great-great-grandfather was a little-known writer who went by the name of Charles Dickens. When I meet Lucy, everything about her – dressed in her painter’s overalls with paint-flecked fingertips screams creativity; she’s 22

wonderfully expressive, chatty and instantly likeable. Her studio, on the very top floor of her home, is just how I’d hoped it would be – rows of exquisitely produced, observant paintings stacked against each other, ready for her next big exhibition at Motcomb Street’s Osborne Studio Gallery. It will be Lucy’s fourth solo exhibition at the gallery and, having worked in the area as a journalist for years,

Powder Room 2

she knows it well and she’s more than happy to return. “It’s my old stamping ground,” she says. “I feel at home there. It just feels right.” Looking around, it’s hard to believe that Lucy is a self-taught painter. Having started out at Vogue, and then becoming fashion editor at Brides, she spent nine years at Condé Nast. After dabbling in illustrating for the Daily Telegraph, Financial Times and Tatler to name but a few, she turned to painting in her thirties. “It’s completely different from illustrating,” she tells me. “But my head is in oils, that’s how I think. It’s solid blocks of colour that can be moved around, and for me it’s the most satisfying method of painting.” Lucy may have taken on painting as a career in her thirties, but she’s still learning and getting to know her own style. “My work has changed a lot in the last year or two,” she says. “It’s much more colourful now. It used to be very dark and moody but I think I’ve really started to yearn for colour.” She pauses for a moment, reflecting on her surrounding work before adding, “I think this will be by far the best show I’ve ever had. To me it’s really singing!” For this exhibition, Lucy has people watched her way around Knightsbridge and Mayfair, and

[CULTURE]

The Ritz At Night

there’s a clear focus on glamorous hotel guests and impeccably dressed uniformed doormen. “I’m a complete people person,” Lucy tells me. “I watch people all the time. Wherever I go, I just people watch.” She’s describes her style as highly figurative reportage, a clear link with her former days as a journalist. “I’ve had my influences over the years, but I’m not trying to be like anyone else,” she says. There’s something exciting about the paintings in Lucy’s studio; the cross-hatching, layered style gives an element of movement to her work, making me feel like I’m sat in a room with all of these fascinating

“I think this will be by far the best show I’ve ever had. To me it’s really singing!” characters. Together they’re a seamless storyboard of glitzy London life; in fact, I can even see them as the illustrations to her literary ancestor’s words. We flit from one painting to the next, as she tells me the intriguing stories behind them all, from the hotel maid dusting a bust of

Margaret Thatcher, to a couple of women powdering their noses in the bathrooms at The Ritz, perfectly captured in the moment. And by the end of April, these marvellous works will line the walls of the gallery for all to see, but while Lucy is more than pleased with the collection, she’s surprisingly apprehensive when she thinks about showcasing it to the world: “I feel a bit worried about it and anxious because I’m putting myself on the line.” Before I leave, I realise I haven’t addressed the elephant in the room – the great writer feels somewhat present in Lucy’s work. “I used to be embarrassed by it, but now as I’ve got older, I just feel really proud; he was fantastic,” she says warmly, “and I can see there’s a bit of a link – we’re people watchers”. Whether they share similarities or not, Lucy’s work speaks volumes in its own right, and though she may be nervous about putting her work out there once again, I can safely say I have great expectations for this exhibition. From 28 April – 13 May, Osborne Studio Gallery, 2 Motcomb Street, SW1X 8JU, 020 7235 9667, osg.uk.com / lucydickens.com 23

[great british escape]

King of

HARTS For those city-beaten guests in much need of some royal treatment, Hartwell House Hotel certainly delivers on its own fair share of British comforts daniel poole

eedless to say, the weather was terrible. But this is Britain. And, as with any British escape, preparation is key. However, after a mere hourâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s drive out of central London, nothing could have prepared me for what the Vale of Aylesbury had in store. Settled within 90 acres of immaculately sculptured greenery sits the Grade I-listed country retreat Hartwell House. This hidden gem was first mentioned in the Domesday Book and belonged to William Peverel, alleged to be an illegitimate son of William the Conqueror. The core structure, however, was originally built for the Hampdens in 1699, the family of an earlier ancestor, Sir John Hampden MP, who became a national figure for refusing to pay an unfair tax during the reign of Charles I. Today it is managed by Historic House Hotels, which has pioneered the conversion of large country homes into commercial residences, 24

and donated the property to the National Trust in 2008. With its accompanying restaurant and spa facilities, guests are promised a high-class hotel with a traditional country-life atmosphere. Those promises are certainly kept, for as the grandiose door greeted me, I very much felt like the king of the castle from the get-go.

Entering the Great Hall, with its beautifully carved ceiling, elegant chandeliers, oak-panelled walls, ornate rugs and periodappropriate fine paintings of lords and duchesses, this hub of tranquil grandeur was everything I had hoped for and more. Antique furniture here, a roaring fire there; the Jacobean and Georgian labyrinth went on and on with no expense spared and every detail appreciated. With a remarkable history spanning almost a thousand

[LIFESTYLE]

years back to the reign of Edward the Confessor, every room has a story to tell. For instance, former US president Bill Clinton once addressed the public over the radio in the main drawing room in 1994. The oak-panelled bar once served as a chapel to the exiled Louis XVIII and his court between 1809 and 1814, and it was here, while at prayer, that word reached him of his reinstatement as King of France. As for me, it was time to take up residence in Hartwell’s largest and grandest suite, the Lee Suite, one of 30 rooms available at the hotel, and the king I had rightfully become immediately felt at home. Natural light flooded both the bedroom and private drawing room, pouring in through large bay windows overlooking the surrounding gardens, dotted with historical statues. The furnishings were splendid and continued the style of the rest of the house. The bed alone was the size of my bedroom back in London, which was important because relaxation was a key theme here.

Later, after a hard afternoon’s exploration, it was time to seek out the spa. Situated adjacent to the main house sits Hartwell Court, the 18th-century former coach houses – now modelled in the style of an orangery – where the Hartwell Spa facilities are tucked away, as well as a further 16 luxurious bedrooms and conference rooms. With no desire to talk business, it was onwards to enjoy the pool, spa bath, steam room and sauna. There are also four beauty salons providing every treatment under the sun. Not generally one to dabble in fitness I almost forgot there was a gym, but more energetic types can expect every gizmo and gadget to help blow those cobwebs away, suitable for beginner to athlete. All this exploration had left me hungry, and a good thing too, as dinner here is taken just as seriously as the hotel’s décor. The three-course meal was hosted in the principal dining room, a magnificent splendour designed in 1988 in the style of the eminent early 19th-century architect Sir John Soane. The lighting was majestically dimmed and the dining team were at my beck and call for any kingly need. I began with a burst of flavour; an Aylesbury duck-liver parfait with French toast brioche, chicory jam and a crispy spring roll, impeccably presented and immeasurably tasty. The main consisted of Aylesbury duckling (yes, more duck. But I am king. I can have whatever I wish) served with crunchy roasted shallot, salt-baked celeriac, confit potato, all on a bed of spinach and doused in a heavenly duckling jus. Ready and raring to attack something sweet, I cracked into a vanilla and cherry crème brûlée accompanied by a generous scoop of cherry ripple ice cream. I topped off my evening with a batch of fresh

The lighting was majestically dimmed and the dining team were at my beck and call for any kingly need

coffee served in the main drawing room, which had easily become my favourite room in the house, as I slipped into a lavishly cushioned sofa to play a game of chess by a crackling fire. The sheer weight of me by this point could have warranted an air-lift to my suite upstairs, nevertheless I persevered and conquered the grand staircase up to my bed and slipped into a sweet slumber. Another day broke and more delicious food was to come at breakfast. As I ignored the déjà vu of the previous night’s feast, I was back again in the principal dining room which was blessed with copious piles of fresh croissants, locally produced jams and chutneys, coffee and teas in every imaginable scent and, of course, the saviour of any morning, the full English. After a quick stroll, it was time to check-out and say goodbye. As I felt my regality slip away, I not only feared the return to mere peasant status, I also remembered in awe a charming hotel that had worshipped me from the moment I arrived. Hartwell House Hotel, Restaurant and Spa, Oxford Road, Nr Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP17 8NR, 0808 163 3983, prideofbritainhotels.com NEED TO KNOW Daniel Poole was hosted by Hartwell House in Buckinghamshire, once home to Louis XVIII, the one-time exiled King of France. The National Trust-owned 18th-century stately home is set in 90 acres of gardens, which are adorned with historical statues and lush parkland. The spa building has been modelled in the style of an orangery with high-arched windows and it houses a large indoor pool, spa bath, steam room and sauna. A night’s stay in a double room costs from £230 per room (two sharing) including breakfast and use of the Hartwell Spa. Contact Pride of Britain Hotels on 0800 089 3929, prideofbritainhotels.com.

[PROMOTION]

[promotion]

Make moving day easy – and benefit local charities too

oving home can be an exciting and memorable time, but the process of actually moving your possessions from your old home to your new one can also be stressful. John Watson, managing director of UK Services of Royal Warrant holders Abels Moving Services, gives some tips on advance planning that could help make your moving day easier. Plan early: Research and contact three removals companies that are at least accredited and approved by the British Association of Movers. Visit their premises unannounced as this will give you an idea as to how they will manage your move. Tatty trucks and a warehouse will often transpire to tatty work practices! Home survey: For a full house move, a sales representative will visit to chat through your moving requirements and check the access for large removal trucks. A professional company will be flexible and mould its services to suit your needs. It is recommended that the same person meets each company representative to avoid conflicting instructions.

Delivery to your new home: Look at the access and advise your removals company accordingly.

Identify sentimental and high-value items: The surveyor can advise how the company will protect them so that special care and attention are given on moving day. Professionally pack everything / owner packing / part packing? Ask yourself whether you want the removals firm to take care of the entire move, in which case you may want to take a few days’ holiday. You may prefer to do some packing yourself – eg. personal clothing or paperwork. Packing materials: If you prefer to pack some or all cartons yourselves, the removals company can supply suitable packing materials. “Beware of buying low-cost materials from the internet,” warns John, “as these are often inferior quality and unsuitable for being stacked 9ft high.”

Storage needed? Ask your mover about their storage facility, check it has on-site security, fire prevention and your items will be stored in containers. Insurance required? For moves within the UK, your home contents insurer may cover you. For European and international destinations, your removals firm should offer comprehensive coverage. Be wary of extended liability insurance as it can leave you in a battle over whether damage was negligence should a claim arise.

Charity donations for unwanted items: Ornaments, books, china and glassware must be in good condition, some white goods and upholstered furniture must have their fireretardant labels. Abels has a brilliantly simple solution: it will collect unwanted items free of charge and pass them on to two charities close to the company’s heart: the East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) and the Big C Charity ( fundraisers for cancer equipment), for sale in their charity shops. As John says, “Everyone benefits from this kind of recycling. Our clients don’t have to worry about disposing their unwanted goods, and charities benefit financially.” Abels also supports East Anglian Air Ambulance, which depends on donations and saves the lives of hundreds of people each year. John Watson sums up the company’s philosophy by saying: “Giving something back to the wider community is very much part of being a successful company today.” Call Abels on 0800 626 769, email: johnwatson@abels. co.uk, or visit abels.co.uk

THE BEST fitNess prograMMe ever in six we e k s ta k e 5 inche s of f you r wa ist, lose a ston e , dou ble you r f it ne ss

“MasHer of tHe coucH potato, sHape-sHifter to tHe stars, tHe Bodydoctor is a god” Saturday Times Magazine

Stronger. Slimmer. Firmer. Fitter.

Coming Soon B odydoc to r - Fi t f o r Lov e be s p o k e 1 o n 1 , c o uple & sma ll grou p t ra ining

The Best Trai ni ng In The Wo r l d - A nd i t’s On Yo u r Do o r ste p w w w. bo dy do c to r . c o m / 0207 235 2211 / eaton square, belgrav ia sw 1

DIRECTORY

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

Estate Agents Ayrton Wylie 16 Lower Belgrave Street 020 7730 4628

Douglas Lyons & Lyons 33 Kinnerton Street 020 7235 7933

John D Wood 48 Elizabeth Street 020 3151 5724

Marler & Marler 6 Sloane Street 020 7235 9641

Best Gapp 81 Elizabeth Street 020 7730 9253

Harrods Estates 82 Brompton Road 020 7225 6506

Knight Frank Lettings 82-83 Chester Square 020 3740 4539

Savills 139 Sloane Street 020 7730 0822

Chestertons Belgravia 31 Lowndes Street 020 7235 3530 (lettings) 020 7235 8090 (sales)

Henry & James 1 Motcomb Street 020 7235 8861

Knight Frank Sales 47 Lower Belgrave Street 020 3811 2473

Strutt & Parker 66 Sloane Street 020 3553 8393

[CAFĂ&#x2030;S]

[PUBLIC HOUSES/ DINING ROOMS]

[RESTAURANTS]

Food & Drink [BARS]

Amaya Halkin Arcade Motcomb Street 020 7823 1166

Tomtom Coffee House 114 Ebury Street 020 7730 1771

The Garden Room The Lanesborough Hyde Park Corner 020 7259 5599

La Bottega 25 Eccleston Street 020 7730 7411

[DELI]

The Library Bar The Lanesborough Hyde Park Corner 020 7259 5599

[WELLBEING CLUB]

[DOCTOR]

Grace Belgravia 11c West Halkin Street 020 7235 8900 gracebelgravia.com

[HAIR SALONS]

The Daniel Galvin Jr. Salon 4 West Halkin Street 020 7245 1050

Motcombs 26 Motcomb Street 020 7235 6382 motcombs.co.uk Tomtom Mess Hall 14 Eccleston Street 020 7730 1845 Uni 18a Ebury Street 020 7730 9267 restaurantuni.com

Home & Culture

[DENTIST]

The Belgrave Medical Centre 13 Pimlico Road 020 7730 5171

The Alfred Tennyson 10 Motcomb Street 020 7730 6074 thealfredtennyson.co.uk The Thomas Cubitt 44 Elizabeth Street 020 7730 6060 thethomascubitt.co.uk

Health & Wellbeing The Beresford Clinic 2 Lower Grosvenor Place 020 7821 9411

The Orange 37 Pimlico Road 020 7881 9844 theorange.co.uk

[ANTIQUES]

Bennison Fabrics 16 Holbein Place 020 7730 8076 Patrick Jefferson 69 Pimlico Road 07768 510 022

[ARCHITECTS/ DESIGN] Weldon Walshe 20 Grosvenor Place 020 7235 4100

[CLEANING] Kudu Services 27 Mortimer Street 020 8819 3136 kuduservices.co.uk

[GALLERIES] Pullman Editions 94 Pimlico Road 020 7730 0547 pullmaneditions.com

[directory]

Fashion [BOUTIQUES]

Philip Treacy 69 Elizabeth Street 020 7730 3992

Herve Leger 29 Lowndes Street 020 7201 2590

Nevena Couture (clients by appointment only) Lowndes Street 020 3539 8738 nevena.co.uk

[BANKS]

[MOVING SERVICES]

[PSYCHOTHERAPY]

Duncan Lawrie Private Banking 1 Hobart Place 020 7245 1234 duncanlawrie.com

Abels Moving Services UK, EU & International 020 3773 5796 info@abels.co.uk abels.co.uk

Suzanne Thomas DHC MRes, Hypnotherapist/ Psychotherapist 07770 378791 suzannethomas@ suzannethomas.co.uk suzannethomas.co.uk

[BRIDAL] Le Spose di Gio 81 Ebury Street 020 7901 9020 le-spose-di-gio.it

Services

[EXCLUSIVE] The Caledonian Club 9 Halkin Street 020 7235 5162 caledonianclub.com

[POST OFFICE]

Post Office 6 Eccleston Street 0845 722 3344

[TRAVEL & hotels] Jumeirah Lowndes Hotel 21 Lowndes Street 020 7823 1234

[SOLICITORS] Child & Child 4 Grosvenor Place 020 7235 8000 childandchild.co.uk

Passepartout Homes Ltd +32 50 69 99 10 passepartout-homes.com info@passepartout-homes.com

Jumeirah Carlton Tower Cadogan Place 020 7235 1234

Speciality Shops [CIGAR SPECIALIST]

Tomtom Cigars 63 Elizabeth Street 020 7730 1790

[CONFECTIONERS]

Peggy Porschen 116 Ebury Street 020 7730 1316

Pierre HermĂŠ Paris 13 Lowndes Street 020 7245 0317 Rococo Chocolates 5 Motcomb Street 020 7245 0993

[JEWELLERS]

De Vroomen 59 Elizabeth Street 020 7730 1901

VICKISARGE 38 Elizabeth Street 020 7259 0202 Elizabeth Gage 5 West Halkin Street 020 7823 0100 eg@elizabeth-gage.com elizabeth-gage.com

[PERFUMERIES] Floris 147 Ebury Street 020 7730 0304 florislondon.com

[BOOTMAKERS]

[SECURITY]

Stivaleria Cavallin 57 Elizabeth Street 020 3198 3269 stivaleriacavallin.com

Vigilance Properties 20A Eccleston Street 020 3416 5340 vigilanceproperties.co.uk

[NEWSAGENTS]

Mayhew Newsagents

15 Motcomb Street / 020 7235 5770 Mayhew Newsagents is a local Belgravian institution. As well as supplying the area with national and international newspapers and magazines, it provides an extensive range of stationery, computer supplies and postal services. Opening times: Monday to Friday 7am-6pm, Saturday 8am-2pm, Sunday 8am-1pm Local delivery service available

[PROPERTY]

[PROPERTY NEWS]

PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT Important street plans affecting Belgravia

Belgravia mansion ‘on the market for £150million’

Some interesting rumours are circulating about one of central London’s most important – and largest – private houses Nestled in between Grosvenor Crescent, the Caledonian Club and Halkin Street, Grade II-listed Forbes House is a Georgian mansion dating back to 1810, and is located on a frankly unbelievable acre-sized plot that is approached by a sweeping carriage driveway. Set well back, detached, walled and with enough parking for 32 cars, the five-storey former nobleman’s residence served as the headquarters of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders from 1945-2011, before reportedly being snapped up by the billionaire Ritz-owning Barclay brothers on a 47-year lease. Westminster planning records show the council granted

PLANNed roadworks and closures

11-13 April Herbert Crescent, SW1X Repair to a section 81 clean water chamber in carriageway. Thames Water 0845 9200 800

25-29 April Cadogan Square, SW1X Alter and relay domestic service two metres from main in carriageway. National Grid Gas plc 0845 605 6677

11-25 April Jermyn Street, SW1Y Repaving footway and redoing road markings. City Of Westminster 0207 641 2000

Until 9 June Carlton Street, SW1Y Repaving footway and laying granite setts on the carriageway. City Of Westminster 0207 641 2000

PLANNING APPLICATIONS DATE RECEIVED: 8 February ADDRESS: Westmoreland Terrace PROPOSAL: Erection of a mansard roof extension; rear extensions at ground, first and second-floor levels; in association with the creation of an additional flat. DATE RECEIVED: 8 February ADDRESS: Sussex Street PROPOSAL: Use of the fourth-floor flat roof as a terrace. DATE RECEIVED: 10 February ADDRESS: Chesham Place PROPOSAL: Installation of secondary glazing to existing windows.

permission for a reversion back to a “single grand residential dwelling” in 2012, and it’s been claimed the 20-bed trophy home is now up for sale at £150million, fully refurbed and with a freshly extended 148-year lease. Highlights include a glorious marble staircase, vast principal reception rooms and some superb original features. A sale at this level would, of course, break a record or two, but we’re very much in speculation territory at this stage. A rumoured asking price is a long way from a price paid. We do know, however, that it packs at least 37,500 sq ft of internal space and was built in three stages: the first five bays were designed by Sir Robert Smirke for the fifth Earl of Oxford; the next three were added in 1824 for the future third Earl Fitzwilliam, and the last section in 1912 for the eighth Earl of Granard. Speaking about the house back in 2010, Marsh & Parsons boss Peter Rollings said: “A property such as this is extraordinarily rare; it is very, very special and a most extraordinary place.”

savills.co.uk

1 IMMACULATE GROUND AND GARDEN FLAT WITH OWN FRONT DOOR eaton square, sw1 Grade II* listed ø entrance hall ø reception room ø kitchen ø 2 bedroom suites ø further bedroom ø bathroom ø kitchenette ø guest cloakroom ø garden ø 177 sq m (1,908 sq ft) Guide £1.9 million Leasehold, approximately 10 years remaining

Savills Sloane Street Richard Dalton rdalton@savills.com

020 7730 0822

Open new doors in Belgravia & Chelsea Move with Savills

BELGRAVIA

£5,500 pw + fees apply*

EATON TERRACE SW1W 4 4 4

3,052 sq ft EPC=E

BELGRAVIA

£3,950 pw + fees apply*

BELGRAVIA

£3,500 pw + fees apply*

CHESTER STREET SW1X 6 3 5

3,480 sq ft EPC=E

SOUTH EATON PLACE SW1W 5 3 3

2,935 sq ft EPC=D

* Fees to include drawing up the tenancy agreements and reference change for one tenant – £282 inc VAT one-off fee. £36 inc VAT for each additional tenant/occupant/guarantor reference where required. Inventory check out fee – charged at the end of or early termination of the tenancy and the amount is dependant on the property size and whether furnished/unfurnished. For more details visit savills.co.uk/fees

6488 Belgravia Residents Journal Lettings DPS ART.indd 1

02/03/2016 14:04 6488 Be

CHELSEA

£3,000 pw + fees apply*

BELGRAVIA

£2,650 pw + fees apply*

HALSEY STREET SW3 4 3 3

2,318 sq ft EPC=D

EATON TERRACE SW1W 4 2 3

2,141 sq ft EPC=F

BELGRAVIA

£6,250 pw + fees apply*

BELGRAVIA

£5,950 pw + fees apply*

EATON TERRACE SW1W 5 3 3

2,921 sq ft EPC=D

WILTON MEWS SW1X 3 2 3

3,959 sq ft EPC=E

16 14:04 6488 Belgravia Residents Journal Lettings DPS ART.indd 2

02/03/2016 14:06

Eaton Mews South, Belgravia SW1 Beautifully presented mews house with garage This spacious terrace mews house is arranged over three floors and benefits from wood flooring in the reception areas, private garage and has been finished to a high standard throughout. 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, reception room, kitchen, study, utlity room and garage. EPC: D. Approximatley 146 sq m (1,580 sq ft). Available furnished

KnightFrank.co.uk/lettings belgravialettings@knightfrank.com 020 3641 6005

R p 3 a E F

Guide price: £1,950 per week KnightFrank.co.uk/BEQ140339 All potential tenants should be advised that as well as rent, an administration fee of £276 and referencing fees of £48 per person will apply when renting a property. Please ask us for more information about other fees that may apply or visit KnightFrank.co.uk/tenantcharges

BRJ - 28 Eaton Mews South

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

17/03/2016 16:33:12

89 E

3:12

Eaton Terrace, Belgravia SW1 An extremely elegant Grade II listed house on this highly regarded street Refurbished to an incredibly high standard and specification, this house demonstrates classical grace with well proportioned rooms and luxurious decoration throughout. Master bedroom with en suite, 3 further bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, drawing room, informal reception room, kitchen/breakfast room, study, utility room, staff bedroom and bathroom, garden, terrace, vault. EPC: E. Approximately 269 sq m (3,112 sq ft). Freehold

Guide price: £7,450,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/belgravia belgravia@knightfrank.com 020 3641 5910 Hamptons.co.uk sloanesquare@hamptons-int.com 020 7591 7333

@Belgravia_SW1 KnightFrank.co.uk

KnightFrank.co.uk/BGV150155

89 Eaton Terrace - Bel Res

15/03/2016 17:48:51

EATON TERRACE, BELGRAVIA, SW1W

£7,650,000 FREEHOLD • THREE/FOUR BEDROOMS • FOUR BATHROOMS • RECEPTION ROOM • MEDIA ROOM • KITCHEN • • BAR AREA • DINING ROOM • JACUZZI • PRIVATE GARAGE • COVERED TERRACE AND GARDEN •

BELGRAVIA OFFICE 1 Motcomb Street, London SW1X 8JX +44 (0)20 7235 8861 belgraviaoffice@henryandjames.co.uk

henryandjames.co.uk

PONT STREET, KNIGHTSBRIDGE, SW1X

£925 PER WEEK • TWO BEDROOMS • ONE BATHROOM • SEPARATE KITCHEN • • GUEST BEDROOM/STUDY • PORTER • LIFT • EXCELLENT STORAGE • EPC C • Plus £240 Tenancy Fee and £60 Referencing Fee (per person)

BELGRAVIA OFFICE 1 Motcomb Street, London SW1X 8JX +44 (0)20 7235 8861 belgraviaoffice@henryandjames.co.uk

henryandjames.co.uk

Eaton tErracE, SW1 A superb freehold house (Grade II Listed) situated mid-terrace and arranged over four floors, with a spacious family kitchen/conservatory opening onto a mature, landscaped rear garden. Approx. 2,300 sq ft. 2 bedrooms, en suite bathroom, en suite shower room, dressing room, drawing room, reception, conservatory/kitchen/breakfast/family room, dining room, cloakroom, loft room, garden. Freehold Guide Price ÂŁ4,650,000

BELGraVIa 020 7824 7900 belgravia@johndwood.co.uk

JDWXXXX Belgravia Magazine.indd 1

johndwood.co.uk

16/03/2016 11:47

JDWX

ECCLESTON SQUARE, SW1 A magnificent white stucco Grade II Listed south facing house, extending to in excess of 8,000 sq ft and arranged over six floors. 8 bedrooms, bathroom, shower room, drawing room, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, study, 3 cloakrooms, utility room, patio, balcony, access to communal garden (with tennis court). Freehold Guide Price ÂŁ8,950,000

BELGRAVIA 020 7824 7900 belgravia@johndwood.co.uk

11:47

JDWXXXX Belgravia Magazine.indd 2

johndwood.co.uk

16/03/2016 11:47

EAton PLAcE, SW1 A generously proportioned and immaculately presented Grade II Listed garden flat with superb open plan living space opening onto a wonderful patio garden. Approx. 1,356 sq ft. 2 bedrooms (both en suite), kitchen/reception/dining room, private patio garden, cloakroom, lift, caretaker. Lease to 2124 Guide Price ÂŁ2,650,000

WHItEHALL coURt, SW1 A spacious flat, in need of modernisation, with fantastic direct views over the River Thames towards the London Eye and featuring impressive ceiling heights. Approx. 900 sq ft. Energy Rating: D. Double bedroom, bathroom, drawing room, lift, 24 hour concierge. Lease to 2086 Guide Price ÂŁ1,495,000 BELGRAVIA 020 7824 7900 belgravia@johndwood.co.uk

JDWXXXX Belgravia Magazine.indd 3

johndwood.co.uk

16/03/2016 11:47

JDWX

EATON SQUARE, SW1 An extremely elegant former coach house, situated within a handsome Grade II* Listed building. Approx. 1,772 sq ft. 2 bedrooms (both en suite), dressing room, reception, kitchen/breakfast room, cloakroom, garden, access to private square gardens with tennis court. Lease to 2050 Guide Price ÂŁ4,700,000

EATON MEWS SOUTH, SW1 A stylish and sympathetically modernised mews house with an integral garage (held on a separate lease), and arranged over three floors. Approx. 1,631 sq ft. Energy Rating: D. 2 bedrooms (both with en suite bath/shower room), dining room, drawing room, reception, cloakroom, access to decked flat roof, garage, mews parking (by arrangement). Lease to 2112 Guide Price ÂŁ3,950,000 BELGRAVIA 020 7824 7900 belgravia@johndwood.co.uk

11:47

JDWXXXX Belgravia Magazine.indd 4

johndwood.co.uk

16/03/2016 11:47

Proud sponsors of

3rd | 4th | 5th June

Clabon Mews

Knightsbridge SW1X

Clabon Mews is located in the heart of Knightsbridge. This newly refurbished 3 bedroom house has been meticulously rebuilt to exacting standards & refurbished by world renowned interior designers Argent. The house benefits from good high ceilings which provide an airy & light feel throughout, plus a garage. EPC rating D

ÂŁ7,950,000 freehold

Knightsbridge & Belgravia

020 7235 8090

sales.knightsbridge@chestertons.com

chestertons.com

CHN2348 Belgravia Residents Journal April v3.indd 1

17/03/2016 01:03 CHN23

Harriet Walk

ÂŁ4,500,000 freehold

An exceptional, newly built 4 bedroom house discreetly located between Lowndes Square & Sloane Street. The property has many unique features including a glass circular staircase which allows light to flow to the lower ground floor.

Knightsbridge & Belgravia

Knightsbridge SW1X EPC rating B

020 7235 8090

sales.knightsbridge@chestertons.com

Your property can help you get away with Chestertons To find out more talk to us today or visit chestertons.com/avios

16 01:03 CHN2348 Belgravia Residents Journal April v3.indd 2

Applies to sellers and landlords. Terms and conditions apply see www.chestertons.com/avios for details. Avios are issued and redeemed in accordance with Avios terms and conditions.

17/03/2016 01:04

Proud sponsors of

3rd | 4th | 5th June

11 Royal Court House, Sloane Street

Knightsbridge SW1

£2,950 per week / £12,783.33 per month

An elegant 1st floor apartment with fabulous views over Cadogan Place gardens offering a reception room, dining room, 3 double bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, eat in kitchen, utility room & 24hr porterage. EPC rating B

Knightsbridge & Belgravia

020 7235 3530

lettings.knightsbridge@chestertons.com

chestertons.com

CHN2348 Belgravia Residents Journal April v3.indd 3

Additional tenant charges apply: Tenancy agreement fee: £222 (inc. VAT) References per tenant including credit check: £60 (inc. VAT) References per guarantor including credit check: £60 (inc. VAT) Inventory check (approx. £100 – £250 inc. VAT dependent on property size) chestertons.com/property-to-rent/applicable-fees

17/03/2016 01:04

[PROPERTY]

[profile]

all change Hugo Headlam, manager of John D Wood & Co on Elizabeth Street, tells the Journal about growing up in the area, leaving his City job to become an estate agent and the new developments happening on our doorstep francesca lee

orn in SW1, Hugo Headlam grew up in a red-brick building overlooking Cadogan Square and attended school at Hill House, and he knows Chelsea and Belgravia like the back of his hand. After 20 years in his City job, Hugo was ready for a fresh challenge and decided to embark on a new career in estate agency. After joining John D Wood & Co on Kensington Church Street in 2000, he hit the ground running. “I was used to managing people in my City job and I progressed quickly through the ranks, moving to the Wandsworth branch which I ran for six years,” he says. However, his home patch was clearly calling and Hugo made the move to the Elizabeth Street branch where he has been for the past eight years. “It’s a great place to work; it’s sandwiched between Sloane Street and Victoria so buyers and renters have the best of both worlds,” he tells me. “Even when I was growing up, all my friends used to measure the distance from anywhere to Sloane Square – and it’s still the same today.” Hugo goes on to describe how there are a lot of exciting developments in the pipeline for the local area and how it will change the landscape dramatically. “Chelsea Barracks is undergoing radical development – it will change the dynamic of the area completely. Crossrail 2 is also potentially being built underneath it, which will bring about a lot of change when it goes ahead.” As well as new additions

“Belgravia is a great place to work; it’s sandwiched between Sloane Street and Victoria, so buyers and renters have the best of both worlds” to Belgravia, Hugo has also seen a transformation in the surrounding area. “Pimlico was one of the most unloved parts of south-west London – it was the poor relation to Chelsea. However, a lot of Europeans have moved in and prices are holding – it’s certainly on the up.” But what is it that brings people to Belgravia? “It’s its own little enclave with smart streets and

squares and beautiful architecture, plus Elizabeth Street has also established itself as the bridal quarter; there’s Peggy Porschen, Philip Treacy and Grosvenor Stationery to name but a few.” As for the current property market, Hugo is finding that the most activity is between £1million to £2million and that first-floor flats are the most popular as “they tend to have the best view with a balcony, and the buyer or tenant doesn’t need to climb a lot of stairs”. As well as working with The Belgravia Society and the Belgravia Traders Association, Hugo knows a lot of people in the area; he is a local, after all. 48 Elizabeth Street, SW1W 9PA 020 7717 5158 johndwood.co.uk 45

THE ART OF MOVING UK RESIDENTIAL, EUROPEAN & INTERNATIONAL REMOVALS

Abels.

Seen in all the prime locations.

• UK Residential Removals • Worldwide Relocations • Weekly European Removals • Storage Services • Car Transportation & Storage • Office & Commercial Moving • Antiques, Fine Art Packing, Storing & Moving Telephone: 020 3740 1849 E-Mail: enquiries@abels.co.uk www.abels.co.uk

Memb No: A001

Prime locations 297x210mm NEW.indd 1

Certificate No. FS23942

13/11/2015 11:15

B E nA

ehT untSu hT ■ oF • T■ eR • eR ■ tiK ■ ,3£

,3£

P O N TSTREET S T R ESW3 E T, S W 1 BASiL E G E R TO N three T Ebedroom R R AC S W 3maintained mansion building in the heart of Knightsbridge. An immaculately presented flat in E this, beautifully Stunning second floor conversion flat ideally situated in this well maintained block in Knightsbridge. The building is ideally located for Harrods and the shops and restaurants of the area, and moments from Knightsbridge Furnished. 992 sq ft. Stunning penthouse overlooking Brompton Square arranged across the fourth floor of this Victorian building. Unfurnished. 2000 sq ft. underground station. • Two Bedrooms ThreeDouble Bedrooms

■ ■

•• Reception Four Bedrooms Two Bathrooms • Reception

■ ■

• Kitchen • En suite Bathroom ■ ■ Entrance Hall/Dining Area

• Cloakroom • Two Balconies • Dining Room • Balcony • Shower Room ■ ■ Loft Storage Area • Kitchen • Garden Terrace • Three Bathrooms

Reception Room ■ ■ Kitchen/Breakfast Room £1,400 per week + fees £3,250 per week + fees ■ ■

£3,300,000 Subject to Contract

Porter ■ ■ Lift

• H & HW incl • Lift ■ ■ 1397 sq ft • Additional staff flat • EE •Rating Lift D • Caretaker ■ ■ EE rating E (by sep neg)

• EE Rating C

■ ■

Share of Freehold

facebook.com/struttandparker twitter.com/struttandparker

struttandparker.com

Ebury Square, SW1

An exquisite third floor two bedroom apartment with direct views into the landscaped central courtyard of this new luxury development in the heart of Belgravia, with parking, concierge service and a gym.

ÂŁ5,950,000 Leasehold

Knightsbridge 020 7235 9959 paul.gransbury@struttandparker.com

JSA Knight Frank 020 7881 7722

Sloane Square, SW1

An outstanding three bedroom lateral apartment, exquisitely re-designed using materials of the very highest quality and finishes throughout.

ÂŁ7,250,000 Leasehold

Knightsbridge 020 7235 9959 james.forbes@struttandparker.com

facebook.com/struttandparker twitter.com/struttandparker

struttandparker.com

Lowndes Square, SW1

An immaculately presented three/four bedroom lateral apartment on the second floor of this 24 hour portered purpose built block.

ÂŁ8,500,000 Leasehold

Knightsbridge 020 7235 9959 james.forbes@struttandparker.com

Resident’s Journal APRIL 2016 • Issue 47

Knowledge. Integrity. Discretion. Of all our fine properties, these are the most valuable.

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

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

Proudly published by

RUNWILD MEDIA GROUP

55 Strutt & Parker offices nationwide | 1350 Christie’s offices worldwide

Resident’s Journal 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

Written for the residents of BELGRAVIA april 2016 • Issue 47