BELGRAVIA Resident’s Journal J U LY 201 3
I S S U E 01 4
The Belgravia Residents’ Journal is published independently by Runwild Media Group with regular editorial contributions from The Belgravia Residents’ Association. To become a member of the BRA, visit www.belgraviaresidents.org.uk. We would highly value any feedback you wish to email us with: belgravia@residentsjournal.co.uk; or telephone us on 020 7987 4320.
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
Dear Resident
,
There are more than 50 diplomatic missions in fair Belgravia, a figure I would not quite have imagined being so high, even though I know embassies favour this area. With this in mind, Henry Hopwood-Phillips steps on to foreign soil to speak with some of the representatives from the Norwegian, German, Turkish and Belgian embassies (p. 6). He seeks a slice of each country's culture and enquires why Belgravia makes the perfect home away from home. Another Belgravian local, the home guru Alison Cork, takes time out of her busy schedule to chat to Henry this month. The pair discuss why the white-stuccoed buildings of this area have always held such attraction for her and the unconventional manner in which she navigated her way up the career ladder – there was no corporate scrabble for this lady (p.22). We also visit The Palm restaurant (p. 16) and round up the latest planning developments and local news. We hope you enjoy the read. Please do not hesitate to get in contact with your feedback, email: Belgravia@residentsjournal.co.uk.
Above / British Polo Day was founded in Belgravia Photograph by: Oliver Doran
Managing Editor Katie Randall
Senior Designer Sophie Blain
Publishing Director Giles Ellwood
Main Editorial Contributor Henry Hopwood-Phillips
General Manager Fiona Fenwick
Associate Publisher Sophie Roberts
Editorial Assistants Lauren Romano, Lulu Rumsey
Head of Finance Elton Hopkins
Client Relationship Director Felicity Morgan-Harvey
Editor-in-Chief Lesley Ellwood
Production Hugo Wheatley, Alex Powell, Oscar Viney
Communications Director Loren Penney
Managing Director Eren Ellwood
Contributing Editor Josephine O’Donoghue
The Notebook
Who and what have been moving and shaking in Belgravia recently? We bring you up to date
Oultimate design
With over 30 stores worldwide, everywhere from Hamburg to Hong Kong, it was only ever a matter of time before British luxury furniture designer Timothy Oulton opened in Harrods. Ever the functionalist, Oulton’s unique and superbly crafted furniture is designed for living not just looking, and the artful design strikes the perfect balance between innovation and tradition. Two new collections have been launched in recent months. ‘The Composer’ draws on the influence of music, while ‘Brighton Beach’ playfully captures the feel of one of the south coast’s favourite seaside-scapes. With another collection entitled ‘Salvage,’ it comes as no surprise that the brand is also leading the way with the trend for upcycling. Harrods, 87-135 Brompton Road, SW1X 7XL, 020 7730 1234 (timothyoulton.com; harrods.com)
Rising rates
From 1 July many Westminster residents will experience a slight price increase in their residence parking permits. All cars will see a rise of between £6 and £9, whilst motorcycle permits are fixed at £50 and eco vehicles remain free. Even if you’re not whizzing round town in a Smart car, take heart Westminsterites, this works out as less than 40p a day. On top of which, if you already occupy one of the 32,000 spaces available you can receive a permit discount for renewing online. (westminster.gov.uk)
Volunteer for your health By Sara Oliver
Recent research has found that in helping non-profit and charitable societies, or working in a charity shop could save your life by reducing your blood pressure. Anyone who chooses to carry out at least 200 hours of voluntary work per year can reduce the risk of high blood pressure by 40 per cent. The condition is one of the main causes of stroke and heart disease, which are apparently Britain’s biggest killers. Researchers in the US believe good social connections and interactivity promotes healthy living. Solution
Joining the Belgravia Residents Association and volunteering some of your time each year will help keep the doctor away, preserve your sense of well-being and your quality of life. (belgraviaresidents.org.uk)
Aircraft crash
The director of the Belgravia-based Bonanza Flying Club died after his plane crashed into a mountain, reports The London Evening Standard. On 16 June, 51-year-old Alan Tyson’s 5-seater Beechcraft 58 Baron twin turboprop collided with Mount Mindino in Northern Italy. Heavy fog has been cited as the reason for the crash, although a thorough investigation is underway.
Royal Court review: What’s the big idea? Playwright E.V. Crowe in The Big Idea: Sex, part of the Royal Court’s Big Idea series, ‘invites an audience to relive a seminal teen lesson,’ by listening to a reading of Judy Blume’s Forever, read by actress Romola Garai. It requires great power of imagination, however, to relive it. Perhaps Forever was once the Lady Chatterley’s Lover of the American literary world, but now it is about as iconoclastic as a tepid cup of tea. Romola Garai certainly rose above her material though. Later offerings in the programme (including Friday Night Sex and Late Night David Hoyle) admittedly looked spicier but I couldn’t help but think their ‘big idea’ was bigger in the sixties than it is now. The Big Idea is part of the Royal Court’s Open Court Series, which runs until 20 July Sloane Square, SW1W 8AS, 020 7565 5000
The best of british
The five-star Goring Hotel by Buckingham Palace has teamed up with luxury British brand Globe-Trotter to launch a line of limited edition suitcases. United by their quintessentially British ideals, the two companies have sought to produce a range of handcrafted luggage that reflects their appreciation of practicality, style and beauty. The range will be available from July at the Globe-Trotter flagship store, situated in the heart of Mayfair. Prices start from £485, 54-55 Burlington Arcade, W1J 0LB, 020 7529 5950 (globetrotter1897.com)
Words Henry Hopwood-Phillips
Watch this space
After a thirty-year partnership with the renowned jewellers Erickson Beamon, this September Vicki Beamon will launch her much-anticipated new brand, together with the re-opening of her flagship boutique in Belgravia. The boutique’s revamp has been planned for August but the jewellers have made sure that no one will forget about the occasion with a vivid DIY shop front. Vicki Beamon’s new collections will be both trend led and concept based, eclectic and surrealist, inspired by cinema, fashion and art. Vicki’s artistry has led her to collaborate with Raf Simons at Jil Sander, Erdem, Dries Van Noten and Givenchy, and build an influential clientele that includes Samantha Cameron, Beyonce, Lana Del Rey, Elle Macpherson and Kate Moss. 38 Elizabeth Street, SW1W 9NZ (ericksonbeamon.com) Photo: Claire Lawrie Words: Sylvia Bianco & Antonia Michel B E L G R AV I A R E S I D E N T S ’ J O U R N A L
005
License to
Mediate
Henry Hopwood-Phillips takes a peek behind the twitching curtains and the fluttering flags to shine a torch on the not-so-murky world of diplomacy
B
elgrave Square, one of the great showpieces of Belgravia, was developed in 1826 to designs by George Basevi. Today it is dominated by large, stuccoed embassies, but it was not always so. Although filled with the grand and the good from the beginning – almost half of its occupants were titled by the middle of the 19th century – helped no doubt by George IV’s decision to convert the nearby Buckingham House into a palace for his residence, and Queen Victoria’s decision to rent number 36 for her
mother, the presence of embassies was only slight at first, barely a trickle. The first was the Embassy of the Austro-Hungarian Empire in 1871. Registered at no.18, its Ambassador lived there with his countess, her companion and 15 servants. It was not until the two world wars changed British demography irrevocably that we saw the modern pattern of embassies emerging as a permanent feature of the Belgravian landscape. How do they operate in modern society? The Residents’ Journal is keen to find out more.
Belgian Embassy, 17 Grosvenor Crescent There are approximately 19,000 Belgian nationals registered with the Belgian Embassy in the UK, which brings the estimated total number of Belgians residing here to nearly double that figure. Considering there are perhaps 40 staff members at 17 Grosvenor Crescent, catering for the consular needs and assistance of their compatriots, they seem to be doing a very good job of it. Each Belgian diplomat serves two consecutive periods (of four years each) abroad and one at home. This circulation keeps diplomats in touch with their homeland. Tine Jacobs, Second Secretary, learnt her craft working in press and communication for EU and Belgian government administrations. Now she is working with British diplomats on various European, regional and multilateral policies,
Gone are the days when the only meaningful contact made was with other foreign offices such as energy and climate change, and the International Maritime Organization (IMO). As she describes her role, she sounds and operates much as one might expect a member of a dynamic company, which, on reflection, might be quite an apt description of the modern embassy. ‘Gone are the days when the only meaningful contact made was with other foreign offices,’ she explains. ‘Now we must deal with a whole cross-section of society.’ If this is how the Belgian Embassy works here, what are the stereotypes or popular images of a typical Briton in Belgium?
‘Reserved, disciplined and a bit stiff-upper lip types I guess, but at home many also think of Englishmen as real gentlemen,’ is Tine’s response. ‘I think Belgians struggle to distinguish between London and the rest of Britain, I’m not sure they understand pageantry either; they love the geography of Scotland, oh and your weather of course.’ Her last remark reminded me of a quip the MEP Daniel Hannan made recently that ‘It rains 30 per cent more in Brussels than in London. Yet people usually greet the rain by telling you, with a smirk, that it’s “like London, no?”’ Walking up the stairs, I tentatively compliment the recent spate of world-class films Belgium has been producing. I loved Bullhead I chimed, hoping to get some cultural brownie-points – ‘Rundskop’ she corrects me. ‘Yes, our TV shows are rocketing in quality too – watch Salamander,’ she recommends before leading me into the offices of her senior, Véronique Petit. Véronique Petit, Minister-Counsellor, working from a bright and spacious office, explains that much of a diplomat’s work involves trying to understand the mindset of its host country and relating findings back to colleagues in its homeland. For Mrs Petit, this involves elucidating the often complex logic behind issues such as Scottish independence and EU referendums, to colleagues back in Brussels. I ask Véronique whether part of that role ever entails what the 16th century diplomat Henry Wotton famously described as being an ‘honest gentleman[woman] sent to lie abroad for the good of his[her] country’? ‘Oh I wouldn’t know about that,’ she replies, very diplomatically. Enquiring about the downsides of the work of a diplomat, she mentions the inevitable administration that comes with each new posting; apart from that, Véronique would definitely recommend what appears to be a wonderful and fulfilling career.
Photographs above / Tom D’Haenens Illustrations / Mai Osawa B E L G R AV I A R E S I D E N T S ’ J O U R N A L
007
Turkish Embassy, 43 Belgrave Square Giving His Excellency Ambassador Ünal Çeviköz a chance to regale me with some illustrious history, I enquire what the diplomatic history between Britain and Turkey looks like on paper. In response, he recounts how ‘the first Ambassador from Britain had been accredited to the Ottoman Court in 1583,’ and how the first Turkish Ambassador arrived at the Court of St. James in 1793. In 1901, the diplomatic mission moved north, into the building at 69 Portland Place. The address was clearly much to the taste of the Ambassador at the time, however, as ‘in 1954, it was decided that the building there would be kept as a residence,’ and so the chancery was transferred to its current address at 43 Belgrave Square. Quoting Henry Wotton, I also ask His Excellency whether he agrees that diplomats are honest men who lie abroad for their country. The Ambassador, naturally, prefers to tactfully reformulate the question. ‘Diplomats are brave men, sent abroad to show the other side of the coin, to prove that a half-empty glass is also half-full and that a win-win result is not impossible.’ Upping the ante, I provocatively suggest that embassies are becoming an anachronism in an age in which borders are potentially less relevant, as reported in the national press. ‘I
would never consider embassies an anachronism,’ the Ambassador counters. ‘Although it is true that borders are becoming less relevant. I think it is also important to note that two trends are taking place at the same time. On the one hand, there is penetration of information into every walk of life, which allows you to have access to new views, opinions, cultures and ways of living. This is not bad. On the other hand, there is also a growing tendency to protect one’s privacy, to avoid becoming a part of the general will, and to express more primordial sentiments.’ A cacophony of voices, especially in the social media sphere, he claims, can never replace ‘direct human communication,’ and ‘therefore the importance and relevance of embassies is even more pronounced... [they are] even more of a necessity in today’s world.’ Digging for a compliment, I enquire what the best qualities of the British are. ‘I see a great margin of flexibility, tolerance and understanding in British society towards other nationalities, cultures and civilisations. Even if they do not agree, British people know how to listen.’ Giving His Excellency a chance to advertise a Turkish trait, he immediately answers ‘hospitality.’ And having been to Istanbul many times, I can certainly vouch for that.
Courtesy of the Turkish Embassy
Norwegian Embassy, 25 Belgrave Square The Norwegian Embassy was strangely bereft of its magnificent red, indigo and white flag when I visit on a Wednesday night. Fortunately, I recognised the royal standard before the rain reduced me to an unusually sentient raindrop. After obligatorily locking myself in the vacuum room (a security space through which everyone passes before entering the hub of the embassy), I was introduced to Kim Traavik, the Norwegian Ambassador. Kim is the perfect host, offering us giant salmon sandwiches before introducing the work of an export of Norway’s that trumped even the peach-coloured fish: Edvard Munch. To celebrate the artist’s 150th anniversary, the award-winning arts documentary maker Phil Grabsky presented a film he had made of Munch’s latest exhibition in Oslo. Using over 270 works, it’s the largest exhibition of its kind. Countless curators and critics scanned his chronologically ordered work, and recounted his rather melancholy life and incredibly varied output. I found it very emotional in parts; it certainly made me appreciate the genius of a man usually reduced to his most famous work The Scream.
The Journal sends Alexander Deane, former chief of staff to David Cameron, to the Centre of European Reform’s 15th birthday
German Ambassador’s Residence, 22 Belgrave Square Celebrating its 15th birthday, the the Centre of European Reform held a party at the German Ambassador’s Residence on 10 June. The think-tank’s guest speaker was the Leader of the Opposition Ed Miliband. Addressing a very large audience and introduced by the Centre’s Director Charles Grant, Mr Miliband spoke about the importance of remaining ‘at the heart,’ of the European project – a message thoroughly well received Photo / Anthony Upton by the invited audience in no. 22, even if perhaps not one in tune with the spirit of the times. Mr Miliband also joined Ambassador Georg Boomgaarden in highlighting the thinktank’s important contribution to the debate on Europe in Britain. At the time of the event, Ambassador Boomgaarden had less than a month remaining in post. His successor has yet to be named and the appointment will no doubt be affected by the forthcoming German Federal Election.
Courtesy of the German Embassy
B E L G R AV I A R E S I D E N T S ’ J O U R N A L
009
The Calendar Bringing you the lowdown on local events in July
Grosvenor gets groovy
If the Belgravian street parties have inspired a mood of revelry and you are prepared to venture over to the other side of Hyde Park, then Mayfair’s Summer in the Square, organised by Grosvenor Estate, may have something in store for you. Following on from a very successful event last year, it has returned once more and, between 11-28 July, shows off a menu of events that includes games, food pop-ups, theatre, ballet and music to suit all ages and tastes. 11am-8pm, Grosvenor Square, W1K
Chocolate challenge
Abandon sight with the aid of a blindfold and feel your other faculties heighten in response. Hear the chocolate snap, smell the aroma released, discern the texture as the cocoa dissolves, and savour the intense flavours freed from a variety of Rococo’s chocolate bars and award-winning truffles. The firm was set up by Chantal Coady on the King’s Road in 1983, but it is the Motcomb Street store that is seeking to make your chocolatey dreams tangible, with a tasting masterclass on 23 July. The exotic chocolate journey will conclude with unique pairings of savoury and sweet that will challenge your perceptions of flavours and perhaps even your own palate. 5 Motcomb Street, SW1X 8JU, 020 7245 0993 (rococochocolates.com)
A Belgravian debutant
New premium womenswear label, Pepper & Mayne, has chosen Grace Belgravia to launch their debut autumn collection. Having been bombarded with requests on social media to get selling, the firm has decided to set up shop online, giving fans the opportunity to reserve limited edition items before they hit the shops. Fronted by Aisha Wiggins of Models1 and Charlotte Holmes, a former Miss England, the brand looks set to kick off proceedings in style with a champagne breakfast on 2 July. 11C West Halkin Street, SW1X 8JL, 020 7235 8900 (gracebelgravia.com)
Photographs courtesy of Pepper & Mayne
Running for glory
Now in its thirteenth year, huge annual fundraiser, the British London 10K Run is expected to attract 30,000 runners. Gathering at Hyde Park Corner on the 14 July, the course winds down Piccadilly and Pall Mall to Trafalgar Square, along the Embankment to the City, taking in St Paul’s Cathedral and Tower Bridge, and finally back to Whitehall, looping past the London Eye on the way. The runners will be joined by clusters of celebrities and athletics champions. A number of Olympic Ambassadors took part last year – including Paula Radcliffe and Mo Farah, memorably helping to capture the crowd with inspirational film footage – a feat that organisers hope will be repeated this time around. Hyde Park Corner, SW1X (thebritish10klondon.co.uk)
Waxing lyrical
At 7.30pm on the 6 July, Lewisham Choral Society’s summer concert showcases four iconic works from the modern choral repertoire at Cadogan Hall. United by their lyrical vocal writing and striking instrumentation, these dramatic works alternate passages of quiet contemplation with dynamic outpourings of energy. The programme includes two works by one of the world’s leading composers of contemporary choral music, Eric Whitacre. His Cloudburst, set to a Spanish poem by Octavio Paz, is sung alongside When David Heard (also by Whitacre). Other composers included are Leoš Janácek’s six-movement setting of The Lord’s Prayer (Otce Náš) and Leonard Bernstein who uses harp, percussion, solo and choral voices (in Hebrew) to great effect in his Chichester Psalms (1965). 5 Sloane Terrace, SW1X 9DQ, 020 7730 4500 (cadoganhall.com)
Michaelpuche / Shutterstock.com
Do you have an event that you’d like us to cover? Send us an email: belgravia@residentsjournal.co.uk
B E L G R AV I A R E S I D E N T S ’ J O U R N A L
011
Edmund Burke
The First
Conservative
Tipped by political columnist Bruce Anderson to be a future Conservative party leader, Jesse Norman (pictured left), The Spectator’s Parliamentarian of the Year and author of the newly released Edmund Burke: Philosopher, Politician, Prophet offers Henry Hopwood-Phillips an explanation of both Edmund Burke’s views and his own
In Edmund Burke: Philosopher, Politician, Prophet you mention The Vindication, Burke’s ironic defence of the anti-civilisational Lord Bolingbroke. There are typically two distinct poles of conservative thought regarding civilisation, the idealistic Leo Strauss on the one hand and the pessimistic Oswald Spengler on the other. Where do you think Burke sits on that spectrum? Historically there has been a tension here. On the one hand you have people who would regard civilisation in the manner of Katherine Hepburn in the The African Queen (1951). In the film Humphrey Bogart plays a captain who, after discovering his entire gin supply has been emptied by Hepburn into Lake Tanganyika, tells her reproachfully ‘it’s only human nature [to have a drink].’ She replies magisterially ‘human nature, Mr Allnut, is what we’ve been put on Earth to rise above.’ It’s that idea that our nature can be contained and developed through civilisation. And then you have people, such as the philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau, who say that civilisation is something that is profoundly evil. Man’s essential nobility is distorted in it. Burke believes that you cannot divorce man from society, as in the so-called ‘state of nature.’ Man’s natural state is to be in society. Burke is in many ways an optimist, as he believes truths can be revealed through nature and through history, but reminds us that it is a mistake to think of an individual as entirely of itself, a unit, an atom cut off from what is around us.
To a leftist, the customs so hallowed by Burke look more like repositories of prejudice and error that can be purged by reason. Where do you think the error lies? Exactly the same argument was made in Burke’s time. The claim was that respecting custom and tradition was simply an excuse to do nothing or to protect an essentially oppressive set of arrangements. But Burke was not opposed to change, on the contrary he believed in a philosophy of change. He said ‘a state without the means of change is without the means of its own preservation,’ so the question is rather
Do you think there is something of Cicero in Burke? His invective against the Duke of Bedford and Lord Lauderdale reminds me of the Philippics; his attempted impeachment of Hastings has a whiff of Cicero’s In Verrem about it. Absolutely. How interesting. I think the answer is that Burke does undoubtedly have a Ciceronian aspect to his personality. It hasn’t been much explored in the scholarship. He has it in several ways. He has many beliefs that find their parallels in Republican Rome; a Rome in which those at the top of a hierarchical society are not out for themselves in a particular conception of political nobility and leadership, and in the belief that power should be held to account.
Why do you describe Burke as a ‘postmodern’ thinker? Don’t forget I draw a distinction tacitly in the book; a distinction between postmodern and postmodernist. Look carefully. Postmodernism is a view that says there is no truth, only power. Modernity is governed by the enlightenment belief that there is a truth and it moves along scientific lines. Postmodernism says that’s not true. Now Burke isn’t a postmodernist in that sense, he thinks there is a truth and falsehood but he is postmodern in the sense that he reaches beyond and criticises the claims of reason itself. There is a contrast between The Enlightenment [of the philosophes] and what Kant calls ‘enlightenment’. What Kant means by enlightenment is emancipation from the selfenslavement of man’s own dogma and ideas. In that sense enlightenment is about always being able to reach outside itself and see that reason can lock you in a box. So Burke is a creature of the enlightenment whilst being a critic of The Enlightenment.
You talk a lot in the book about parties; parties that unite over principle, instead of faction and its interests. These days the parties seem to have degenerated into two main factions perpetuating vested interests. I read your colleague Douglas Carswell’s iDemocracy and wondered what you thought about his rather radical line of thought? Well, I’ve got a lot of sympathy with many aspects of Douglas’s critique and indeed I worked with Douglas on a pamphlet in 2005 on direct democracy, but my conception of the solutions is radically different to his.’ The classic example is that Douglas would be very happy with the entire direct democratisation of society, in which everything is subjected to the vote, a process enabled by the internet. But as for me, I don’t think the only form of legitimacy is through the ballot box. There are other forms of the legitimate exercise of power. We have a constitution that works not through popular sovereignty but parliamentary sovereignty, of which the popular part is only a portion. Direct democracy works when it presupposes and feeds into a well-established political consensus. We don’t have that here, but it’s not impossible.
B E L G R AV I A R E S I D E N T S ’ J O U R N A L
Burke believes that you cannot divorce man from society how do you change? Burke certainly would not have tolerated an authority that was oppressive; we know this because of his support for the American colonists and for the Bar Confederation in Poland, which was against the interference of Catherine II of Russia in Polish affairs. Burke supported those who sought to protect a social inheritance threatened by would-be oppressors. Power must earn its keep, its trust; if it doesn’t then all bets are off.
Edmund Burke: Philosopher Politician, Prophet by Jesse Norman, £20, Harper Press: 2013. Pick up a copy at Belgravia Books, 59 Ebury Street, SW1W 0NZ, 020 7259 9336 (belgraviabooks.com)
013
Art Focus
Out and about on the Belgravia art trail, and beyond...
TheareSaints Marching In National Gallery Curator Colin Wiggins introduces the eighth Rootstein Hopkins Associate Artist Michael Landy to Henry Hopwood-Phillips, who feels that his work causes havoc with haloes
T
he first thing that hits the visitor on entering the National Gallery’s Sunley room is the Monty Python-esque nature of the drawings and moving sculptures on display. Anyone raised on a diet of Ray Harryhausen clay ‘dynamation’ films in the 1960s will instantly recognise parallels. Michael Landy claims more cerebral roots in Jean Tinguely and his kinetic art of the Dada tradition. The mustachioed inspiration who often mocked industrial overproduction is echoed in his British disciple, whose own stock rose in the world with Break Down (2001), a work in which the artist catalogued and burnt 7,227 items – everything – he owned in order to re-open questions of value in society. Perhaps it was always going to be a natural step for Landy to re-imagine the people who performed metaphysically equivalent actions in conjunction with Matthew 16:25 and 19:21. His treatment of the Saints, their rehabilitation, is certainly original. Curator Colin Wiggins praised Landy’s ability to subtract the ‘hushed reverence,’ the sanitising silence from typical portrayals; he lauds the artist’s power to quicken violence frozen ‘in gold-leaf frames and give back to the Saints their sufferings.’ Landy himself explains the Saints’ appeal: ‘They destroy themselves by their faith, they are destructive. They have to persuade people that they are in the right. I like their single-mindedness.’ Michael Craig-Martin, Landy’s former teacher at Goldsmiths College of Art, describes his former pupil as a ‘sophisticated innocent.’ Landy refers constantly to his perception of his saints as ‘Frankenstein-ish creations.’ Both are prescient descriptions. The saints feel less revived than simply reanimated; the result evokes less wonder than revulsion. The violence has a whiff of the ridiculous about it. Doubting Thomas less prods and more
stabs Jesus with his finger, sending his limbless mannequin torso flying sideways like a car-crash dummy. St Peter the Martyr feels less murdered with a cleaver than a man sectioned with a rattle, and the juddering St Jerome with his chestbanging rock seems more ape than saint. Wiggins’ attempts to cloak my reaction with talk of ‘the corporeality of the counter-reformation’ is an articulate retort but also, almost certainly, lipstick on the proverbial pig. Standing alone and without context, the hope of these jerky saints is lost; they are reduced to sado-masochistic eccentrics instead of sincere lovers of God willing to suffer for that love. Perhaps the two are indistinguishable to your typical postmodern observer, though, this jars with the movement’s instinct to understand and appreciate everything. Infantility rather than innocence lingers like a bad taste in the air. Nobody expected a pantheon of vacant haloed portraits but neither, in my opinion, do they anticipate a macabre fairground, a facile medieval pastiche that brings the third physical dimension out at the expense of the intellectual and spiritual planes. Landy explains that Jerome, what with being a frustrated hermit, occupies a special place in many an artist’s heart, but Jerome wrote the Vulgate, a cornerstone of the West that would emerge, alive and inspiring, from the embers of Rome and Jerusalem’s symbiosis. I’m not sure Landy’s, albeit humble, suffering will have quite the same effect. Re-engaging the public with its past is a noble aspiration but not one that should be achieved at all costs. The Saints have been born again but they are stillborn.
Landy refers constantly to his perception of his saints as Frankenstein-ish creations
23 May – 24 November, Sunley Room, National Gallery Trafalgar Square, WC2N 5DN (nationalgallery.org.uk)
Above: Saint Apollonia (de-faced) by Michael Landy from Saints Alive (2013) © Michael Landy. All images of the artists work courtesy of the Thomas Dane Gallery, London. Photo: The National Gallery, London
Spin the Saint Catherine Wheel and Win the Crown of Martyrdom by Michael Landy from Saints Alive (2013) © Michael Landy
Saint Apollonia by Michael Landy from Saints Alive (2013) © Michael Landy
Michael Landy as St Jerome (2012) © Michael Landy
Associate Artist Michael Landy drawing in his studio, © Michael Landy
© National Gallery, London
Multi-Saint, by Michael Landy from Saints Alive (2013) © Michael Landy
B E L G R AV I A R E S I D E N T S ’ J O U R N A L
Saint Jerome by Michael Landy from Saints Alive (2012 Duerckheim Collection © Michael Landy
Saint Francis Lucky Dip by Michael Landy from Saints Alive (2013) © Michael Landy
015
Belgravia’s Got Beef
Henry Hopwood-Phillips takes a peek into what appears to be carnivore central
W
ine-tasting in Belgravia is not something you often associate with easy-going Americans, New World wines, merry guests and relaxed hosts, so it was a pleasant surprise to encounter The Palm. The restaurant shouldn’t work, really. It’s an allAmerican steakhouse in Belgravia and, like a cowboy in a tailcoat, the restaurant sits squat in an austere Georgian skin. But work it does. No, I correct myself: it excels. Many restaurants have philosophies that contain platitudes as woolly as they are meaningless. ‘Treating customers as family’ is a sentiment often paid lip service in Britain, but The Palm really does. It is not the overwhelmingly shiny, fawning, gushing, sugary fauxfamiliarity that makes Brits feel as though they are being beaten to death with a feather-duster, but a social fluency that silently grows. Americans settling at the bar seem to be local; the barman Dale looks as though he has just stepped out of the Old Spice commercial and NBC updates overhead indicate that one has crossed the pond when passing through the front door. Owned by the fourth-generation families of the founders, Pio Bozzi and John Ganzi, their jolly pictures hang near the entrance, quite near the display of another of The Palm’s institutions: the caricatures. Originally scribbled by artists who couldn’t or wouldn’t sing for their supper, the restaurant’s clientele are literally coming out of the woodwork. And the balloon heads tend to be smiling, so either the propaganda machine is a-whirring or people really do like this place. I am plumping for the latter. And it is probably to do with the steaks. I could waste my time describing the light and perfectly balanced flavours of the goats cheese mousse, beetroot and candied walnut salad. I could waste my time describing the generous portion
of jumbo shrimp and shellfish bouillon. I could even waste my time describing the coy mint jelly on the shortcake crumble. Time to find another job? Perhaps, but The Palm is about its steaks. They even lecture you on them. The Americans tier the different qualities of meat: the top is USDA Prime. This is the gold standard of beef. Corn-fed for more juiciness, marbling, tenderness and flavour, The Palm also wets and dry ages its imports. Fortunately the restaurant doesn’t just talk about them. I ordered mine medium-rare; my Russian partner who prefers the flame and meat remain unacquainted ordered hers blue. The best steak either of us had ever had by a long shot. I am a carnivore, a carnivore who harbours suspicions about the purpose of the non-meat-based remainder of Creation, and the steak served only to confirm these prejudices. No doubt the brilliant young English chef downstairs, Spencer, did try to disabuse me of my carnivorocentrism by sitting the beef on some firm asparagus spears, but it was not enough. Washing each course down were a series of wines, commentated upon by the delightful Stephen Clark, ex-director of Laurent-Perrier. The highlights, personally, out of a medley of five, were the first bottle, a Byron Santa Barbara Chardonnay 2011, a surprising wine that crescendoed in butter and dimuendoed in honey, but still polished off its little musical on my tongue with a crisp mineral finish. And also the third bottle, a Byron Santa Barbara Pinot Noir 2011, which packed a berry punch without being overwhelming; in fact quite the opposite, it was very smooth and drinkable. The Palm might stick out a bit in Belgravia but it sticks out for all the right reasons. It’s got beef.
The restaurant has the magnetism of Raffles in Singapore: it stands for something more
016
1 Pont Street, SW1X 9EJ, 020 7201 0710 (thepalm.com)
B E L G R AV I A R E S I D E N T S ’ J O U R N A L
The ‘great thaw’ begins.
Enjoy the warmer months at your neighbourhood public house and dining rooms.
cubitthouse.co.uk T H E T H O M A S C U B I T T • T H E PA N T E C H N I C O N • T H E O R A N G E • T H E G R A Z I N G G OAT
Beauty &Grooming Outside-in beauty and TLC on our doorstep, for him and for her
Sun Shield
From a company whose expertise lies in knowing all there is to know about skin and how to take care of it, Sisley’s range of botanical suncare for the face offers anti-ageing benefits, optimum protection from the sun’s harmful rays and botanicals to help revitalise the skin. This summer, don’t go on your beach holiday without Sisley’s Super Stick Solaire SPF 30. Its nourishing formula contains targeted UVA and UVB protection for sensitive areas of the face and its soft texture leaves a matte water-resistant finish. £60.50, available at John Lewis stores and online (johnlewis.co.uk)
A Tale of Two Scents
Scent connoisseur and creator of some of the most luxurious and exclusive fragrances in the world, Roja Dove is set to launch two new perfumes in September, one for men and one for women. The Enigma range is inspired by mystery, but remains ‘self-assured and certain,’ says Roja, who stocks his scents exclusively in Harrods and Fortnum & Mason. Both fragrances feature the brand’s signature rich and heady notes, with Enigma Parfum for women blending rose, jasmine, orris, geranium and vanilla to create a lighter, sweeter mood. Enigma Pour Homme is at once spicy, powdery and sensual with extracts of cognac, tobacco and ginger. We applaud the olfactory master for his latest releases. Enigma Parfum, £295, Eau de Parfum, £175 (both 50ml) Enigma Parfum Pour Homme, £295 (50ml); Pour Homme £195 (100ml). Harrods, 020 7893 8797 or Fortnum & Mason 0845 300 1707 (rojaparfums.com)
Super Skin
French women, it seems to me, have beautiful skin. For niche skincare products from France right in the heart of Belgravia, A. Moore & Co. is a one-stop-shop for nature-based brands that deliver results. Summer skin is healthy and radiant, and to achieve these results you need to start off with a great cleanse. Caudalie’s Instant Foaming Cleanser Fleur de Vigne turns into an airy, rich foam to gently cleanse the skin of impurities. It is soapfree and respects the natural balance of the skin (£15 for 150ml). Once a fresh visage is achieved, they recommend using Caudalie’s award-winning Beauty Elixir. With grape extracts for radiance; orange blossom water for softening; rose extract for toning and essential oil of rosemary for rejuvenating, your skin will be runwayready for summer. 100ml glass bottle with spray, £32 30ml glass bottle, £11.50. Available at A. Moore & Co., Chelsea House, 25e Lowndes Street, 020 7235 5887
Scents of the World
What better way to complement your summer evening attire than with Tom Ford’s new Private Blend Atelier d’Orient Collection. Exquisitely packaged in the designer’s signature cognac-brown glass bottle, these sultry, sensuous, luxurious fragrances were inspired by the richness of Asia. The four scents capture four distinct moods. Fleur de Chine is romantic and sophisticated with ingredients such as the hualan flower and star magnolia; Rive d’Ambre captures the very essence of elegance through its mix of exquisite citrus fruits with tarragon, cardamom and rare benzoin laos; the fragrant ume plum takes centre stage in Plum Japonais, while Shanghai Lily is sensual with pink peppercorn, jasmine, rose and tuberose. 50ml, £140, the Tom Ford Atelier d’Orient Collection will be available at all Tom Ford Private Blend counters from July (harrods.com)
Sheer Glow
Launching this July, Pure Color Cello Shots are Estée Lauder’s latest beauty innovation, sweeping bright washes of colour across cheeks and lips to ensure a youthful glow all summer long. The concept behind the collection is that all of the products work well together and you can mix and match the vibrant colours on cheeks and lips, building up intensity as you wish. Gel finishes are long-lasting and lightweight, making them perfect for summertime when the sun is hot (we hope). For cheeks, new Pure Color Cheek Rush provides a pop of sheer colour, while hydrating skin with an infusion of natural extracts and moisturisers (£24). For a rush of colour to lips, Estée Lauder offers two options: Pure Color Sheer Rush Lipshine (£19.50) and Pure Color Sheer Rush Gloss (£18). Both are available in six shades. The collection will be available for a limited period (although the cheek washes are a permanent addition) at Estée Lauder counters nationwide (esteelauder.co.uk) Words / Briana Handte Lesesne B E L G R AV I A R E S I D E N T S ’ J O U R N A L
019
Pins &
Needles
Pummelled like putty, Henry Hopwood-Phillips takes relaxation to new levels
W
ith posture akin to a question mark thanks to a musical education spent perched at 45 degrees on a stool, and having last had a massage that involved contorting my body (that has all the flexibility of an antique plank) into positions that would make plasticine blush, I typically look forward to a trip to the spa as much as one might a dash to the dentist.
I felt as a plant in Arizona might, having been paid a visit by a solitary watering can Fortunately my fears were entirely misguided. Marinated in rosemary and almond oils, Flora Kasonkomona’s touch felt as though undulating waves were ushering me to sleep, aided no doubt by Thai lyres and fiddles that provided the perfect accompaniment to be lulled into a state of equilibrium. It is remarkable how, when you truly relax,
the muscles can be manipulated as though one were Pinocchio; when my arm was worked on, my hand seemed to dance in celebration of its new-found freedom from my brain. As I emerged from the incensed womb of a room for a shower, I felt as a plant in Arizona might, having been paid a visit by a solitary watering can. Next up was the acupuncture. Sue Kalicinska left Imperial College London in order to pursue a more holistic approach to health 26 years ago and hasn’t looked back. Whilst plying my lower back with hair-fine darts, she explains that too many people focus on their appearance to the detriment of their core health and well-being, when the former is caused by the latter and not vice versa. Instead of resembling a human pin cushion, a small constellation of slender shafts balanced out my ‘qi’ or ‘chi’ rather as Alfred Watkins’ ley lines do on the landscape. Whatever one’s opinions on such matters, Roman poet Juvenal’s command to orandum est ut sit mens sana in corpore sano (pray for a sound mind in a healthy body) is undoubtedly some of the best practical advice ever given by a poet, and Shenshakti is one of Belgravia’s best places to fulfil it. 54A Ebury Street, SW1W 0LU, 020 7730 7473 (shenshakti.co.uk)
15 Belgrave Square
That was
Then
A very special foyer in the area has Belgravia’s history nailed to its walls. The Belgravia Residents’ Journal visits 15 Belgrave Square to take a snapshot of some of the historical extracts pinned to its interior
T
he history of the Grosvenor estate began in 1677, when the young Cheshire Baronet Sir Thomas Grosvenor, the heir of a noble family dating back to 1160, married the twelveyear-old Mary Davies, daughter of a scrivener in the City of London. Her marriage portion consisted of five hundred acres of land on the western fringes of built-up London, stretching from present day Oxford Street to the Thames. The land had once formed part of the medieval Manor which was called “Eia” in the Domesday Survey of 1086, but which came to be known as the Manor of Ebury. After the Norman conquest, the Manor was given to Geoffrey de Mandeville for services rendered to King William. By the end of William’s reign, Geoffrey had given the Manor to the Abbey of Westminster, and it remained in the Abbey’s ownership until 1546 when it was acquired by Henry VIII as a royal hunting ground. Mary Davies’ father, Alexander Davies, had inherited the land from his great uncle Hugh Audley, who had purchased it from Sir Lionel Cranfield, an ambition merchant who held several influential Offices of State under James I and was later impeached for corruption. Alexander Davies embarked on some speculative building on his new property, letting out the land along the river front for building and reserving a large plot at the southern end as a site for a mansion for his own occupation. This was later called Peterborough House and then, when it became the principal London residence of the Grosvenor family in the first half of the eighteenth century, Grosvenor House. Alexander Davies’ early death from the ‘great sicknesse’ at the age of twenty-nine, in 1685, left his speculative building unfinished. His infant daughter Mary became heiress to what today is the most valuable five-hundred acre plot of land in the United Kingdom. Even in those days the potential wealth of the area was evident, and Mary Davies was a very eligible heiress.
On October 1677 Sir Thomas Grosvenor and Mary Davies were married in St Clement Danes in the City of London. Sir Thomas had already inherited substantial estates at Eaton Hall in Cheshire, and Halkin Castle in Flint. His ancestors had gradually built up their estates by judicious marriages, but the 1677 marriage was the Grosvenors’ greatest coup. Sir Thomas died in 1700. His widow died insane in 1730, but fortunately her insanity was not passed on to any of their children. The three sons of Sir Thomas Grosvenor and Mary Davies were worthy country squires, honest, if a trifle dull. They made no mark on the political scene of their day. A vast amount of building was carried out in West London in the 1720s, following the Hanoverian succession. The relative stability of the time, following the crushing of the Jacobite Rebellion, gave a favourable climate for building. Happily for the Grosvenors, there was a movement of fashion away from the more crowded and diseaseridden parts of the capital. Sir Richard Grosvenor, eldest son of Sir Thomas, was enabled by an Act of Parliament in 1711 to grant building leases on his Estate and building development began in 1720. It was decided to lay out the Hundred Acres in Mayfair, initially, the simple layout plan being supplied by the estate surveyor, Thomas Barlow. Another Sir Richard Grosvenor, son of the youngest of the three brothers, succeeded to the Estate in 1755. He was created Baron Grosvenor in 1761, and subsequently Viscount Belgrave and Earl Grosvenor. Sir Richard personified a transition between the country gentry and the sophisticated aristocracy of the Grosvenor family of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. He created a notorious scandal when he brought action against George III’s brother, the Duke of Cumberland, and his passion for the turf brought him to near ruin. There exists a sycophantic letter to him from William Pitt the Elder who used his influence to raise him to the peerage.
Extract taken from historical display inside 15 Belgrave Square
B E L G R AV I A R E S I D E N T S ’ J O U R N A L
021
The
Belgravian She’s a Corker
Domestic goddess, media queen and property’s first lady, Alison Cork drops it all for an hour to tell the Belgravia Residents’ Journal what life is like in her high heels
B
elgravia has a TV presenter, a publisher, a writer, an entrepreneur, a property developer and a mother hiding within its midst – hardly a revelation in such a capable area one might contest – only, on meeting Alison Cork, we find all these people in one. As I walk up the path to Alison’s house, I notice a stag has been transmogrified, the lawn beneath its feet petrified into cold slate. A dolphin, posing as a trout, has been similarly frozen on the door knocker, doomed to tap its head against this front door forever as if some beastly Sisyphus. Not quite sure what to expect on approach (will the White Witch of Narnia come to open the door?); instead, I am warmly received by a certain Alison Cork in a stone-coloured trench coat wrap. I lead her up her own stairs, past a plant pot of about my stature, into a room that blends comfort and style in equal measure. I pay her the aforementioned compliment. ‘Well that is, in a way, my brief,’ she pips. ‘There was not much money sloshing around after buying the house, so I did this on a very low budget.’ I can attest to the fact she fulfilled her brief marvellously. As my gaze wanders on to a painting by what looks like one of the old masters, Alison giggles, confirming ‘Yes, an old master – it’s Leda and the Swan.’ She leaves a pregnant pause which would usually have been filled with a sober nod gravely acknowledging that we are in the presence of greatness, Leonardo da Vinci no less; only for Alison to puncture the portentous silence with the confession that ‘it costs £600 when you ask a Bulgarian art student to do it’ to the sound of laughter on both sides of the sitting room. I find Cork’s unapologetic stance on appreciating beauty and price refreshing. In an age in which wealth rarely translates into taste, in which art rarely corresponds to beauty, Alison’s bluffness invigorates. Smelling blood, I prod her on minimalism: ‘I hate the stuff.’ Okay, less a prod, more a push; thankfully she obliges ‘well it’s certainly not my cup of tea.’ Far from stirring her tea with a silver spoon in early life, all the silver Alison earned from selling conkers as a child was confiscated by teachers at school. ‘I had simply sold the wonderfully large and shiny conkers in my grandmother’s garden for a tidy profit,’ Alison protested, but her teachers, with a healthy disdain for the honesty of small people, decided her profits were destined for the church plate. Later trained in the Classics, she became less known for her ability to talk to passing Romans, than for her power to transform her university room into a Parisian salon, a Marrakechian souk, a Russian dacha, to the delight of fellow
undergrads who would form queues outside, if only because the experience tended to be cheaper than air fares. Eschewing the bottom rungs of a company ladder, a rather typical route into what some have called the real world, Alison declared that she was, and continues to be, ‘unemployable.’ ‘This is not false modesty,’ she assures me, ‘I could never work my way up a corporation or a company, I’d just be trouble.’ I suspect she’s right. Anybody who got their first job as a gardening expert on the BBC after pottering about in the garden for a few months has the sort of chutzpah and natural luck that can grate (and attract) to devastating effect in the workplace. From the moment she landed her first job, where she voraciously learnt Latin names for flora, she revealed a dedicated and determined streak in her nature, which has served her well to this day. I wondered aloud what the common thread between Alison’s various TV shows, books, her company – Alison at Home, and newspaper columns might be, ‘Oh definitely the home. Martha Stewart is a hero,’ she answers. The home has become a bit of a totem for Alison, moving from one suburbia to the other. In the past, suburbia became less a pejorative term than a glutinous Stepford Wives-esque nightmare to flee from. Early on, Belgravia presented itself in her imagination as an antidote. Belgravia where ‘it is beautiful, it is safe,’ Belgravia where ‘it is full of real community; gifted people; wedged as it is between Belgrave Square – the largest private space in London – and Hyde Park, where it is central and green.’ She has had places in Hampstead Heath, Pimlico and Mayfair but was always tempted by the ultimate symbol of anti-suburbia in Belgravia. It was no smooth ride to get there though. In 2008 Alison finally reached her holy grail and was pit-stopping at Chester Row only to find all the houses she hoped to save for were soaring astronomically, thanks to the ‘masters’ of the universe. Remembering a dictum of her mother’s along the lines of ‘you can’t play poker if you’re not at the table,’ Alison put forward what she could afford – around half of that required – and was laughed out of the room. A year later, ill-advised political initiatives in American property markets ensured that the other suitors disappeared and Alison was blessed with the home she dreamed of. As I left Psalm 92 sprang to my head: ‘the wicked shall spring as the grass... the righteous shall flourish... as the cedar of Lebanon’. As I pass Henry the stag on my way out, I’m quite sure Alison had the last laugh.
I find Cork’s unapologetic stance on appreciating beauty and price refreshing. In an age in which wealth rarely translates into taste, in which art rarely corresponds to beauty, Alison’s bluffness invigorates
(alisonathome.com) Illustration / Russ Tudor Words / Henry Hopwood-Phillips
B E L G R AV I A R E S I D E N T S ’ J O U R N A L
023
Residents’ Culture Exploring the minutiae of residents’ explorations and encounters
Secret
Squirrel A Secret Squirrel voices concerns over the potential loss of firestations
T
he Fire stations meeting I attended recently was a lively affair, especially as all of those in the audience were in opposition to the unreliable statistics put forward by the London Fire Brigade (LFB) Authority. As a collective, we were sorry Mayor Boris Johnson was not there in the firing line to answer our questions personally. The firefighters themselves were in attendance, including a member of their Trade Union, fighting their corner and pointing out a number of inaccuracies in the statistics given. We were all led to believe that the consultation process would give us the chance to say no to these cuts and closures, but we left feeling as if the meeting was just a window dressing exercise to say we had been consulted. The panel did not appear to be interested in the fact that not one person in the audience who spoke was in favour of the cuts. There was one excellent suggestion in particular, that a new fire station should be located at the Chelsea Barracks site. Belgravia is sandwiched, as are many of the main art galleries, including the Royal Collection, between the two fire stations due for closure. We feel this not only endangers many lives, but also puts at risk a large number of Grade I and Grade II listed period buildings, as well as a very large concentration of old master paintings. It is very important that as many people as possible lobby both their MPs and local ward councillors. tterstock.com Pres Panayotov / Shu
Old
Sloper
Old Sloper considers the political landscape
O
ld Sloper has always been of the opinion that MPs should either be paid nothing at all or a much higher salary, rather than the odd figure of £66,000, which they currently receive. They should not be allowed to have any paid employment, including paid lobbying, and expenses must be tax deductible so that they have to deal with HMRC, rather than the costly body, which currently monitors their expenses. An MP is required to have a home, both in their constituency and another within easy reach of the Houses of Parliament, so to expect them to live on £66,000, especially after deducting national insurance and tax, is totally unrealistic. Increasing parliamentary salaries was considered to be unpopular hitherto, so the expenses system was introduced, which made the situation ambiguous and potentially open to abuse. If we look at the history of MPs salaries, it was first suggested by Henry VII but rejected because MPs (in those days mainly landed gentry or wealthy city merchants) wanted to retain their independence from the crown. Until the 20th century, members of the House of Commons were drawn mainly from the landed gentry, wealthy industrialists or bankers and sons of members of the House of Lords. In 1911, Lloyd George introduced a salary of £400 per year for MPs (cabinet ministers were paid £5,000 per year, fixed by William Pitt and the remaining the same until the 1960s). We must have a transparent system with no opportunity for MPs or members of the House of Lords promoting interests purely for money. It has been reported that it is perceived by the public that Ed Miliband, the Labour Party leader, does not have any clear direction or policies. The problem for Labour is that most, if not all the points in the Chartist Movement of the mid-19th century, have been achieved: universal suffrage and proper working conditions for people. So what is their purpose today? A number of peers who only have daughters and not sons (for example Michael Ancram, now Marquess of Lothian and Lord Monson) have raised the question of their daughters succeeding to their titles. The problem here is that the majority of hereditary peerages were created by the ‘Letters Patent and heirs male of the body’ only. There are a few peerages, mainly Baronies by Writ of Summons (medieval Baronies), with a special remainder: Mountbatten, Arlington and Nelson. These original creations cannot be undone. The only way their daughters can succeed is for new titles to be created and changing the rules would necessitate the aforementioned male heirs being disinherited, which would potentially cause problems. In the 21st century, it is unlikely that there would be any sympathy for the creation of more titles – a system that is already perceived to be archaic and perpetuating inherited social privilege. This would have to be investigated by the Court of Chivalry at the College of Arms.
Belgravian moments Briana Handte Lesesne examines what defines the great British summer
T
he ‘Best of British Summer,’ ‘New British Beauties,’ and ‘The Ultimate in British Luxury,’ are just a few of the headlines gracing the covers of summer’s beauty, fashion, and home decor magazines. It has led me to ponder a few questions, chiefly: what exactly defines British summertime? What features define a British beauty? And what brands represent British luxury? Memories of summers in Britain conjure up images of strawberries and cream, races on the Thames, fast horses and agile tennis players competing on the world stage. We see longer days, warmer days, languid flowing streams, the verdant countryside, towns less harried, and, to quote Shakespeare the land becomes: ‘this other Eden, [a] demi-paradise.’ Imagine a landscape by John Constable, or J. M. W. Turner, if you will. What defines the ideal British beauty? Was my next thought. Certainly not Kate Upton, the American blonde, sexy, buxom bombshell at the pinnacle of her modelling career. No, the British beauty is more ethereal and demure, with porcelain skin. Did I forget to mention she also attended Cambridge to read law?! My final question tackles British luxury. Brands such as Rolls-Royce, Bentley, and Asprey, which are steeped in history, heritage, tradition and fine craftsmanship, have placed British
Market
Analysis
W
James Humphreys examines if we can expect a summer of market volatility
hat are the prospects for those invested in markets this summer? Momentum has been strong in equity markets for several months, but this may begin to ebb away in the weeks ahead for a number of reasons, leading to a period of heightened volatility. However, this is not a cause for alarm and happens regularly during any bull market. The markets have been rallying hard since last autumn and it would be unsurprising if they were to succumb to further profit taking. We have already seen this in Japan, where the Nikkei 225 has performed astonishingly well since last autumn. US equities have also performed well, so it is only natural that the market enters a period of consolidation after such a rise. However, the odd doubt is also being raised about the sustainability of the current equity market strength. While market ‘bulls’ might point to better economic news from the US as encouraging, the ‘bears’ point out that it is inevitably moving us towards the point at which the US Federal Reserve will begin to withdraw its policy of quantitative easing. Since December, the Fed has been entering the market every month to buy $85 billion of fixed interest securities and this flow of liquidity has been a key reason for the buoyancy of markets
B E L G R AV I A R E S I D E N T S ’ J O U R N A L
luxury centre stage. What country knows more about bespoke men’s tailoring? After all, there is an entire street (Jermyn) dedicated to it. With its tag line: The British Standard, Asprey has gone so far as launching a Woodland collection, a tribute to the beauty of British flora. The collection even includes a whimsical charm: the conker. What could be more British? This July, Belgravian residents might disappear to homes in tropical climates. A few of us will remain with the pleasant distraction of a new royal addition. Will it be a girl or a boy? If it is a girl, with a mother so beautiful like an English rose, she’ll be sure to grow into one of Britain’s beauties. If the baby is a boy, will he play polo – the sport of Kings, founded by the Persians and perfected by the British – like his father, his uncle and grandfather? For me, how will I spend my summer in Britain? Well, truth be told, I have wanderlust. With the demands of two small children and a surgeon husband in New York, I will fly to Connecticut to spend warm nights and days under blue skies, at the pool and by the beach overlooking The Long Island Sound. As a tribute to my second home, however, I will cut roses from my English garden, enjoy a glass of Pimms after five, read Shakespeare’s Sonnets and be on full alert regarding the future heir to the British throne.
in recent months. Fears about what might happen when this QE money is finally withdrawn are moving up the news agenda – not least because we have no previous experience of QE on this scale. There can be no question that a big change in monetary policy, like the withdrawal of QE, will have huge implications for global markets, and is likely to lead to considerable volatility. However, it is also true to say that the Fed is unlikely to withdraw QE or increase interest rates unless they are very confident the economic recovery is entrenched. They would rather risk higher inflation than be the cause of another recession or higher unemployment. On this point, history provides some comfort. In the past twenty years, whilst a change in monetary policy direction has caused market volatility, it has ultimately been followed by stronger equity markets as the economy continues to grow. In summary, we expect to see some consolidation and profittaking over the summer. However, this is not a reason to begin rewriting your long-term investment strategy or trying to select your entry or exit from markets at the right time – something that is very difficult to achieve with any certainty of success. Duncan Lawrie, Belgravia’s local bank since 1971 (duncanlawrie.com) 025
Residents’ Culture Sara Oliver relates the news of the Belgravia Residents Association
The Residents’ Association’s
July round-up
J
une was a busy month for the Belgravia Residents Association (B.R.A.), with summer parties to organise and other events such as Masterpiece London at Royal Hospital Gardens.
The Elizabeth Street party, brilliantly organised by the Elizabeth Street Traders Association, raised money for the admirable Battersea Dogs and Cats Home and a delightful parade of obedient dogs graced the catwalk, all looking for loving homes. The sanctuary aims to raise money to rebuild the Victorian site into a much needed bright and airy retreat for lost and abandoned animals. If you would like to sponsor an animal, please get in touch with Carly Perry (cperry@ battersea.org.uk) or visit: battersea.org.uk to find out more. We are receiving the first entries to ‘A Stranger to Belgravia’ and it is making very exciting reading; from romances to thrillers, please keep them rolling in. Over the summer why not sit down with a refreshing drink and think up a story based around the leafy squares and Georgian houses of Belgravia, whispering secrets of lives past. Ian Fleming lived in Ebury Street, George Moore, who wrote Conversations in Ebury Street, and Mary Shelley, creator of Frankenstein, all found inspiration while living in Belgravia. The competition is open to children and adults and final entries must be submitted by 30 November. Once again the conservation committee has been invited to submit an application for a residents’ garden in the Artisan Gardens section at Chelsea Flower Show 2014. Ideally, once we have been accepted, we need to work with someone who knows the procedure; would anyone like to take advantage of this very special opportunity to showcase their skills or promote their organisation in conjunction with the B.R.A., sponsors and press coverage? Further details are available on the website. We are also planning a movie club in conjunction with the intimate but very high tech and cutting edge Eccleston Square Hotel. Historical on the outside, timeless on the inside, the hotel is an elegant fusion of old meets new. These sublime surroundings are where we intend to relax and host our film screenings, which could include some of the very latest movie releases. Classic titles such as the James Bond series and Dial M for Murder, as well as screenings of Cirque Du Soleil’s
by Sara Oliver
shows are all on the agenda. Go to our Perfectly Belgravia website (perfectlybelgravia.co.uk) for details and please contact us to register your interest in classic film screenings. We have a couple of historic tours coming up for July and October, which you can book online. We will be visiting Danson House, Hall Place and Syon House and are keen to get members and friends to come along on these cultural trips, and to hear what sort of historic matters our members are interested in and where would they like to visit. (belgraviaresidents.org.uk/calendar-of-events/historic-house-tours) The Ebury Square development is fast rising and set to finish in early 2014. We were shown around the site and were most impressed with the work being carried out. The Ebury Square Garden exhibition took place recently at Carmel Hall, with plans in place for comment by the local residents. Overall, the improvement project is working with what is already in existence, with added features such as resin pebble pathways to improve drainage, York stone paths and thinnedout branches of trees to filter in more light, therefore encouraging plant growth. Shade-loving plants and mini meadows could also be introduced and work to restore the existing fountain. The full proposal is available to comment on; please visit Berkeley Homes website for further information: berkeleyhomes.co.uk. Your views are important. I had the pleasure of visiting Victoria Coach Station recently to meet the new manager, Mark Geldard, who explained that the ‘Grand Old Lady of Buckingham Palace Road was in need of a face lift.’ The building will be cleaned and the simplistic art deco design restored to something of its former glory. Finally, I would like to draw your attention to a way in which residents of Belgravia have the perfect opportunity to establish a programme for young people in order to help them acquire qualifications and recognition in the working world. The Belgravia Residents Association, in conjunction with Ayrton Wylie, has kept their promise to deliver this initiative. We have just appointed an intern to work on our marketing campaigns for two months. The young lady applied and was accepted for the position and is now working on the Voyage to Belgravia Competition. The internship is a paid position and we are planning similar roles in the future. We feel this connection is a community initiative Belgravia is well placed to bring about.
Until next month...
belgraviaresidents.org.uk
Game of
Kings
Tom Hardman meets the exhousehold cavalry captain who gives Britain and horses a good name...
Photograph by Oliver Doran
C
onceived in Knightsbridge and established in Dubai four years ago, British Polo Day, a company spreading British luxury and heritage in all directions across the world, hasn’t looked back since. ‘Polo is a very T-shaped sport,’ Ed Olver begins. ‘We want to thicken the trunk.’ I knew I’d be out of my depth on the topic of polo, but not that quickly. Ed cuts a dashing figure, as any ex-Household Cavalry captain might. ‘Well, there is a thin line of schools and clubs at the bottom, then you have these very big international tournaments and there’s not much in between – it’s all very top-heavy,’ he explains, clearly clocking my poker face. Fearing his solution would run along the lines of yet another mid-range annual [insert generic brand] polo match, I suggest that the winds of commercialisation that had buffeted the game over the past decade or so had not done much for the sport. Fortunately, British Polo Day (BPD) seems to have avoided all that. ‘Having been all over the world with the Household Cavalry, I wanted to reconnect the polo base to the very best people and places. We now use those connections to boost the power and allure of the British brand through the international language of the horse. It would be all too easy to start charging for tables or something like that, but I think we’d lose more than we’d gain,’ says Ed.
Stirring stuff, and looking at the roster of brands that comprise BPD’s client-list, the biggest and best certainly seem to have bought into it – but our environment, 5 Hertford Street, did not feel very international. I wondered aloud how much longer British luxury values would have any more purchase power in an increasingly multi-polar world; wouldn’t new elites find their own language, much in the same way the British had stopped aping the French after Waterloo? Ed passionately disagrees, ‘fashions, fads and vogues may change but real craft is timeless.’ True, I reflect, French handbag sales hardly rely on President Hollande’s announcements. Polo is often charged with being a sport for ‘toffs’ but an ethos of meritocratic gentility pervades Ed’s company. Quoting Churchill, ‘the outside of a horse is good for the inside of a man,’ he confirms that the Lockean tradition of the gentleman and woman is strong within BPD. Juggling what must be overheads that would make an oil company blush, operating on every inhabited continent at a rate of 12 countries a year, and handling guest lists that would give Buckingham Palace the jitters, polo seems to have formed a genuine lingua franca and BPD is undoubtedly one of its best speakers. British Polo Day takes place on June 29 at Black Bears River Ground outside Henley-on-Thames this year (britishpoloday.com)
Photographs by Sam Churchill B E L G R AV I A R E S I D E N T S ’ J O U R N A L
027
‘A Stranger to Belgravia� Annual Writing Competition Submit your story by 30th November 2013
Visit website for full entry details www.belgraviaresidents.org.uk Get social on twitter, facebook, pinterest Also check out www.perfectlybelgravia.co.uk
Planning &Development Keeping you in the know about important street plans affecting Belgravia
PLANNING APPLICATIONS
DATE RECEIVED
ADDRESS
PROPOSAL
3 June
South Eaton Place
An amendment granting alterations to window configuration and style to extensions on lower ground, ground and first floors
3 June
Chester Row
Replacement of existing windows and mansard roof. Increase in height of existing rear closet wing extension, to second floor level
planned road works
STREET
PLANNED WORK
DATES
WORKS OWNER
84 Eaton Square
Install 200AMP
1-3 July
UKPN (0800 028 4587)
Ebury Street to 4 Lower Belgrave Street
Disconnect existing gas service to lay new pipes
1-9 July
Fulcrum Pipelines Ltd. (0845 641 3010)
Grosvenor Gardens
Scaffolding, work hours: 8am-12 noon
1-26 July
TFL (0845 305 1234)
Motcomb Street
Excavating public footpath
1-4 July
UKPN (0800 028 4587)
Back to the Future
Oakvest, a development firm, has received full planning permission from Westminster City Council to return the iconic mansion block, Grosvenor Gardens House, to apartments. A grade II-listed building, the company has assured the council that its restoration will be very sympathetic and will play to its current strengths. Originally built to house Britain’s first ever serviced apartments based on the continental Hôtel Meublés in 1867, the new apartments will be serviced by no less than its royal warrant-holding five star neighbour The Goring. The mansion block had served as a single hotel in 1920 but later accommodated offices. Located at the entrance of Belgravia, a stone’s throw from Buckingham Palace, the building sits next to the £2bn renovation of Victoria Station. Its position has no doubt contributed to the building’s larger than life history – including the reputed birth of the Queen Mother – a history that the founder of Oakvest, Mark Holyoake, no doubt wants to capitalise on: ‘It’s is a timeless landmark in an exceptional location. We have always seen the potential... Residents here will enjoy 21st century luxury from a haven imbued with history and tradition.’ And when he refers to luxury, he means it. The 42 apartments will be supplied with a spa, a 15m swimming pool, a private library, a boardroom, a business centre, a cinema and underground parking, ensuring few residents will feel ill-endowed. Work looks set to being in spring 2014 and end in the summer of 2016. Grosvenor Gardens House, SW1W 0EB
Do you wish to comment on any local planning stories? Send us an email to: belgravia@residentsjournal.co.uk
B E L G R AV I A R E S I D E N T S ’ J O U R N A L
029
The Belgravia
Directory
A compendium of the area’s key establishments
Estate Agents Andrew Reeves 77-79 Ebury Street 020 7881 1366
Harrods Estates 82 Brompton Road 020 7225 6506
Savills 139 Sloane Street 020 7730 0822
Ayrton Wylie 16 Lower Belgrave Street 020 7730 4628
Henry & James 1 Motcomb Street 020 7235 8861
Strutt & Parker 66 Sloane Street 020 7235 9959
Best Gapp & Cassells 81 Elizabeth Street 020 7730 9253
John D Wood 48 Elizabeth Street 020 7824 7900
W A Ellis 174 Brompton Road 020 7306 1600
Cluttons 84 Bourne Street 030 3773 0020
Knight Frank 82-83 Chester Square 020 7881 7722
Wellbelove Quested 160 Ebury Street 020 7881 0880
Food & Drink BARS Amaya Halkin Arcade, Motcomb Street 020 7823 1166 The Garden Room (cigar) The Lanesborough Hyde Park Corner 020 7259 5599 The Library Bar (wine) The Lanesborough Hyde Park Corner 020 7259 5599 Tiles Restaurant and Wine Bar 36 Buckingham Palace Road 020 7834 7761
CAFÉS Bella Maria 4 Lower Grosvenor Place 020 7976 6280 Caffe Reale 23 Grosvenor Gardens 020 7592 9322
The Green Café 16 Eccleston Street 020 7730 5304 ll Corriere 6 Elizabeth Street 020 7730 2087 The Old English Coffee House 1 Montrose Place 020 7235 3643 Patisserie Valerie 17 Motcomb Street 020 7245 6161 Tomtom Coffee House 114 Ebury Street 020 7730 1771
The Orange 37 Pimlico Road 020 7881 9844 www.theorange.co.uk
The Pantechnicon 10 Motcomb Street 020 7730 6074 www.thepantechnicon.com
The Thomas Cubitt 44 Elizabeth Street 020 7730 6060 www.thethomascubitt.co.uk
Valerie Victoria 38 Buckingham Palace Road 020 7630 9781
RESTAURANTS
PUBLIC HOUSES/ DINING ROOMS
Como Lario (Italian) 18-22 Holbein Place 020 7730 9046
The Antelope (classic) 22-24 Eaton Terrace 020 7824 8512
Il Convivio (Italian) 143 Ebury Street 020 7730 4099
Olivo (Italian & Sardinian) 21 Eccleston Street 020 7730 2505 Zafferano (Italian) 15 Lowndes Street 020 7235 5800
Motcombs 26 Motcomb Street 020 7235 6382 www.motcombs.co.uk
Mango Tree Manager: Chai Cuisine: Thai; Capacity: 150 46 Grosvenor Place 020 7823 1888 Pétrus Manager: Paulina Trocha Cuisine: French; Capacity: 86 1 Kinnerton Street 020 7592 1609
Health & Beauty BARBER
DOCTORS
Giuseppe D’Amico 20 Eccleston Street 020 7730 2968
The Belgrave Medical Centre 13 Pimlico Road 020 7730 5171
DENTISTS
The Belgravia Surgery 26 Eccleston Street 020 7590 8000
The Beresford Clinic 2 Lower Grosvenor Place 020 7821 9411 Motcomb Street Dentist 3 Motcomb Street 020 7235 6531 The Wilton Place Practice 31 Wilton Place 020 7235 3824
Michael Garry Personal Training 54b Ebury Street 020 7730 6255
Motcomb Green 61 Ebury Street 020 7235 2228
Yogoji (Yoga) 54a Ebury Street 020 7730 7473
Stephen Casali 161 Ebury Street 020 7730 2196
HAIR SALONS
MEDISPA
Colin & Karen Hair Design 39 Lower Belgrave Street 020 7730 7440
Bijoux Medi-Spa 149 Ebury Street 020 7730 0765
The Light Centre Belgravia 9 Eccleston Street 020 7881 0728
The Daniel Galvin Jr. Salon 4a West Halkin Street 020 3416 3116
earthspa 4 Eccleston Street 020 7823 6226
FINISHING TOUCHES
Humphrey -Carrasco 43 Pimlico Road 020 7730 9911
Westenholz 80-82 Pimlico Road 020 7824 8090
Jamb 107a Pimlico Road 020 7730 2122
88 Gallery 86-88 Pimlico Road 020 7730 2728
Lamberty 46 Pimlico Road 020 7823 5115
Ahuan Gallery 17 Eccleston Street 020 7730 9382
Linley 60 Pimlico Road 020 7730 7300
Gallery 25 26 Pimlico Road 020 7730 7516
Mark Wilkinson Kitchens 10 West Halkin Street 020 7235 1845
Gauntlett Gallery 90-92 Pimlico Road 020 7730 7516
Dr Kalina 109 Ebury Street 020 7730 4805
GYM/ FITNESS
SPA
Home ANTIQUES Bennison 16 Holbein Place 020 7730 8076 Turkmen Gallery 8 Eccleston Street 020 7730 8848 Patrick Jefferson 69 Pimlico Road 020 7730 6161
ARCHITECTS/ DESIGN Marston & Langinger 194 Ebury Street 020 7881 5700 Paul Davis + Partners 178 Ebury Street 020 7730 1178
ARTEFACTS Odyssey Fine Arts 24 Holbein Place 020 7730 9942
BUILDER Capital Projects Ltd Gillingham Street (off Ecceleston Square) 07793 777 043 www.capitalprojectslondon.co.uk
B E L G R AV I A R E S I D E N T S ’ J O U R N A L
Paint Services Company 19 Eccleston Street 020 7730 6408 Rachel Vosper (candles) 69 Kinnerton Street 020 7235 9666 Ramsay (prints) 69 Pimlico Road 020 7730 6776 Sebastian D’Orsai (framer) 77 Elizabeth Street 020 7730 8366 Zuber 42 Pimlico Road 020 7824 8265
FURNITURE Ciancimino 85 Pimlico Place 020 7730 9959
Ossowski 83 Pimlico Road 020 7730 3256 Promemoria UK 99 Pimlico Road 020 7730 2514
The Dining Chair Company 4 St Barnabas Street 020 7259 0422
Soane 50-52 Pimlico Road 020 7730 6400
Hemisphere 97 Lower Sloane Street 020 7730 9810
Talisman 190-192 Ebury Street 020 7730 7800
GALLERIES
Gordon Watson 28 Pimlico Road 020 7259 0555 John Adams Fine Art 200 Ebury Street 020 7730 8999 The Osborne Studio Gallery 2 Motcomb Street 020 7235 9667
INTERIOR DESIGN Chester Designs 9 Chester Square Mews 020 7730 4333
031
The Belgravia
Directory Fashion BOUTIQUES Le Spose Di Giò (wedding dresses) 81 Ebury Street 020 7901 9020 www.le-spose-di-gio.it
Christian Louboutin 23 Motcomb Street 020 7245 6510
Patricia Roberts 60 Kinnerton Street 020 7235 474
Herve Leger 29 Lowndes Street 020 7201 2590
Philip Treacy 69 Elizabeth Street 020 7730 3992
Lynton Hotel 113 Ebury Street 020 7730 4032
The Belgravia Mews Hotel 50 Ebury Street 020 7730 5434
The Sloane Club Lower Sloane Street 020 7730 9131
Morgan Guest House 120 Ebury Street 020 7730 2384
The Diplomat Hotel 2 Chesham Street 020 7235 1544
Tophams Hotel 24-32 Ebury Street 020 7730 3313
Westminster House Hotel 96 Ebury Street 020 7730 4302
Lime Tree Hotel 135-137 Ebury Street 020 7730 8191
LUXURY
BOUTIQUE Astors Hotel 110-112 Ebury Street 020 7730 0158
The Rubens at the Palace 39 Buckingham Palace Road 020 7834 6600
BOOKMAKERS
SOLICITORS
Hotels B&Bs B+B Belgravia & Studios@82 64-66 Ebury Street 020 7259 8570 Belgravia Hotel 118 Ebury Street 020 7259 0050 Cartref House 129 Ebury Street 020 7730 6176 Lord Milner Hotel 111 Ebury Street 020 7881 9880
The Berkeley Wilton Place 020 7235 6000 The Goring Beeston Place 020 7396 9000
Services BANKS Duncan Lawrie Private Banking 1 Hobart Place 020 7245 1234 www.duncanlawrie.com
C Hoare & Co 32 Lowndes Street 020 7245 6033 Royal Bank of Scotland 24 Grosvenor Place 020 7235 1882
Coral Racing 67 Pimlico Road 020 7730 6516 William Hill 12 Buckingham Palace Road 08705 181 715
CHARITIES British Red Cross 85 Ebury Street 020 7730 2235
Child & Child 14 Grosvenor Crescent 020 7235 8000 www.childandchild.co.uk
EDUCATION
Eaton Square School 79 Eccleston Square 020 7931 9469 Francis Holland School 39 Graham Terrace 020 7730 2971
Cameron House School 4 The Vale 020 7352 4040
Garden House School Turks Row 020 7730 1652
Eaton House School 3-5 Eaton Gate 020 7924 6000
GEMS Hampshire School 15 Manresa Road 020 7352 7077
Glendower Preparatory School 86-87 Queen’s Gate 020 7370 1927
Queen’s Gate School 133 Queen’s Gate 020 7589 3587
Hill House International Junior School Hans Place 020 7584 1331
Sussex House School 68 Cadogan Square 020 7584 1741
Knightsbridge School 67 Pont Street 020 7590 9000 Miss Daisy’s Nursery Ebury Square 020 7730 5797 More House School 22-24 Pont Street 020 7235 2855
Thomas’s Kindergarten 14 Ranelagh Grove 020 7730 3596
EXCLUSIVE The Caledonian Club 9 Halkin Street 020 7235 5162 www.caledonianclub.com
FLORISTS
POST OFFICE
Judith Blacklock Flower School 4-5 Kinnerton Place South 020 7235 6235
Post Office 6 Eccleston Street 0845 722 3344
Neill Strain Floral Couture 11 West Halkin Street 020 7235 6469
PRINTING & COPYING Printus 115a Ebury Street 020 7730 7799
LIBRARY
TRAVEL
Victoria Library 160 Buckingham Palace Road 020 7641 1300
Bravo Travel 6 Lower Grosvenor Place 0870 121 3411
MOTORING Belgravia Garage 1 Eaton Mews West 020 7235 9900
Speciality Shops BAKERIES
DELI
NEWSAGENT
Baker & Spice 54-56 Elizabeth Street 020 7730 3033
La Bottega 25 Eccleston Street 020 7730 2730
Ottolenghi 13 Motcomb Street 020 7823 2707
GREENGROCERS
Mayhew Newsagents 15 Motcomb Street 020 7235 5770
CIGAR SPECIALIST Tomtom Cigars 63 Elizabeth Street 020 7730 1790
BOOKS Belgravia Books 59 Ebury Street 020 7259 9336 www.belgraviabooks.com
CONFECTIONERS Peggy Porschen 116 Ebury Street 020 7730 1316 Pierre Hermé Paris 13 Lowndes Street 020 7245 0317 Rococo Chocolates 5 Motcomb Street 020 7245 0993
B E L G R AV I A R E S I D E N T S ’ J O U R N A L
Charles of Belgravia 27 Lower Belgrave Street 020 7730 5210
PERFUMERIES
JEWELLERS
Les Senteurs 71 Elizabeth Street 020 7730 2322
Carolina Bucci 4 Motcomb Street 020 7838 9977 David Thomas Master Goldsmith 65 Pimlico Road 020 7730 7710 De Vroomen 59 Elizabeth Street 020 7730 1901 Erickson Beamon 38 Elizabeth Street 020 7259 0202
Polisher F Bennett and Son 9 Chester Square Mews 020 7730 6546
Annick Goutal 20 Motcomb Street 020 7245 0248
Floris 147 Ebury Street 020 7730 0304 www.florislondon.com
Pet accessories Mungo & Maud 79 Elizabeth Street 020 7022 1207
PharmacY A. Moore Chemist & Belgravia Health Foods 25e Lowndes Street 020 7235 5887
033
CHESHAM MEWS, LONDON. SW1X FREEHOLD TWO BEDROOMS GROSS INTERNAL AREA: 1,419 SQ FT/ 132 SQ M
ÂŁ4,450,000 stc Two reception rooms, Cloakroom, Two bedrooms, Two bathrooms, Intergrated sound system, Garage. A picturesque home that has been thoughtfully designed and beautifully presented laid out over three floors. Quietly situated in this highly sought after cobbled mews, the property has attractive entertaining space with a first floor reception and separate dining on the ground floor next to the kitchen. There are two double bedrooms, the master
occupying the whole of the second floor, which has a large en suite bedroom/dressing room and a small terrace. The second bedroom also has its own en suite bathroom and is situated on the first floor. In addition there is a guest cloakroom and large integral garage/utility room. The property is west facing. EPC rating E.
BELGRAVIA OFFICE 1 Motcomb Street, London SW1X 8JX +44 (0)20 7235 8861
belgraviaoffice@henryandjames.co.uk
henryandjames.co.uk
HALKIN PLACE LONDON. SW1X LEASEHOLD THREE BEDROOMS GROSS INTERNAL AREA: 1,445 SQ FT/ 134 SQ M
ÂŁ4,250,000 stc Double reception room, Master bedroom with en suite shower, 2 further bedrooms, 2 shower rooms, Lift, Porter. An excellent lateral three double bedroom apartment on the fourth floor with a lift, which has been refurbished to the highest of standards in this popular portered block in the heart of Belgravia.The flat is especially light and bright having a triple aspect, and has an entirely south and west-facing sitting room from which there are delightful views. Belgravia
House is a very sought-after, secure building, quietly located off West Halkin Street in Halkin Place. The well-known restaurants and bars of Motcomb Street and Knightsbridge are within walking distance. Being in such a good location, this property would also make a great investment or an ideal pied d’ terre. EPC rating E.
BELGRAVIA OFFICE 1 Motcomb Street, London SW1X 8JX +44 (0)20 7235 8861
belgraviaoffice@henryandjames.co.uk
henryandjames.co.uk
HANS PLACE, LONDON. SW1X TWO BEDROOMS FURNISHED/UNFURNISHED
ÂŁ995
PER WEEK stc Newly refurbished, Two double bedrooms, Two bathrooms, Communal gardens (access is available by separate application). A brand newly refurbished superb two bedroom top floor flat, with a lift, has just been the subject of an extensive full refurbishment throughout to an excellent standard. Further benefits include south facing views directly over the beautiful communal gardens of Hans Place, neutral decor throughout, and the quiet enjoyment of being the only flat on the top
floor of the building despite being located less than a 50 metre walk from Harrods. The flat is offered unfurnished or furnished, and is available immediately for a long-term let. Potential tenants are advised that administration fees may be payable when renting a property. Please ask for details of our charges. EPC rating D.
BELGRAVIA OFFICE 1 Motcomb Street, London SW1X 8JX +44 (0)20 7235 8861
belgraviaoffice@henryandjames.co.uk
henryandjames.co.uk
LOWNDES SQUARE, LONDON. SW1X ONE BEDROOM FURNISHED
ÂŁ1,500
PER WEEK stc First floor reception room, Double bedroom, Kitchen, Balcony, Communal gardens, Lift, Profesionally managed. This stunning first floor one bedroom apartment is in a white stucco-fronted building that is arguably located in the best part of the square and also benefits from a south-west facing balcony overlooking the communal gardens of Lowndes Square. The apartment has been refurbished and furnished to a high standard by BRAHM Interiors. Boasting exceptional
ceiling height with floor to ceiling windows in the reception room, stunning period features and parquet wood flooring throughout. Available on a furnished basis for a long term let. Potential tenants are advised that administration fees may be payable when renting a property. Please ask for details of our charges. EPC rating D.
BELGRAVIA OFFICE 1 Motcomb Street, London SW1X 8JX +44 (0)20 7235 8861
belgraviaoffice@henryandjames.co.uk
henryandjames.co.uk
savills.co.uk
1 A NEWLY REFURBISHED HOUSE WITH PARKING burton mews, sw1 Reception room ø study ø kitchen/dining room ø master bedroom with dressing room and bathroom ø 2 further bedroom suites ø guest cloakroom ø patio ø mews parking ø garage held on a lease ø 194 sq m (2,090 sq ft) ø EPC=C Guide £4.995 million Freehold
Savills Knightsbridge
Savills Sloane Street
Matthew Morton-Smith mmsmith@savills.com
Richard Gutteridge rgutteridge@savills.com
020 7581 5234
020 7730 0822
savills.co.uk
1 GRADE II LISTED HOUSE WITH PLANNING CONSENT TO DEVELOP wilton crescent, sw1 Potentially: 5 reception rooms ø kitchen ø 10/11 bedrooms ø 10 bath/shower rooms ø staff accommodation ø utility room ø terrace, patio and 2 roof terraces ø garage ø currently 819 sq m (8,816 sq ft) potential 1,291 sq m (13,896 sq ft) Guide £35 million Freehold
Savills Knightsbridge
Savills Sloane Street
Barbara Allen baallen@savills.com
Noel De Keyzer ndekeyzer@savills.com
020 7581 5234
020 7730 0822
savills.co.uk
1 FIRST FLOOR LATERAL APARTMENT ACROSS FOUR BUILDINGS eaton square, sw1 An incredibly rare opportunity to acquire two adjoining flats with planning consent and listed building consent to link them to create a lateral first floor apartment benefiting from 12 windows ø 290 sq m (3,103 sq ft) Guide £12.5 million Leasehold, approximatley 70 years remaining
Ayrton Wylie
Savills Sloane Street
Simon Ayrton sayrton@ayrtonwylie.com
Richard Dalton rdalton@savills.com
020 7730 4628
020 7730 0822
savills.co.uk
1 A STYLISH MEWS HOUSE FINISHED TO THE HIGHEST STANDARD THROUGHOUT grosvenor crescent mews, sw1 4 double bedrooms ø 3 bathrooms ø 2 reception rooms ø 2 kitchens ø car parking for 4 cars ø administration charges apply ø Council Tax=H ø EPC=D
Savills Sloane Street Georgina Bartlett gbartlett@savills.com
020 7824 9005 £3,750 per week Furnished
Grosvenor Crescent Mews, Belgravia, SW3 A low built mews house in a gated Belgravia development. Accommodation comprises of reception/dining room, kitchen, large master bedroom with en suite bathroom and dressing room, two further bedrooms with a separate shower room. Grosvenor Crescent Mews is a gated Mews in the heart of Belgravia close to all the world class amenities Knightsbridge and the West End has to offer.
ÂŁ4,750,000 020 7225 6509 nicholas.shaw@harrodsestates.com
KNIGHTSBRIDGE OFFICE: 82 BROMPTON ROAD LONDON SW3 1ER T: +44 020 7225 6506 MAYFAIR OFFICE: 61 PARK LANE LONDON W1K 1QF T: +44 020 7409 9001 CHELSEA OFFICE: 58 FULHAM ROAD LONDON SW3 6HH T: +44 (0) 20 7225 6700 HARRODSESTATES.COM
One Hyde Park, SW1 Located at One Hyde Park in the heart of fashionable Knightsbridge, this 3 bedroom apartment has been exquisitely designed by Candy & Candy and provides stunning views of London. A tenant will have full access to the neighbouring Mandarin Oriental residents’ services, as well as use of all the exclusive facilities; 24/7 concierge, private cinema, private events room for large groups, virtual experience room, squash court, fully equipped gym, two private exercise studios, ozone pool, Jacuzzi, two saunas, two steam rooms and two treatment rooms. The apartment itself, of approx. 3548 sq. ft. comprises 2 reception rooms, balcony, kitchen, dining area, 3 double bedrooms all with ensuite bathrooms, guest bathroom, off street parking, and garage. Available for long term lets on a furnished basis.
£15,750pw 020 7225 6602 karen.boland@harrodsestates.com
KNIGHTSBRIDGE OFFICE: 82 BROMPTON ROAD LONDON SW3 1ER T: +44 020 7225 6506 MAYFAIR OFFICE: 61 PARK LANE LONDON W1K 1QF T: +44 020 7409 9001 CHELSEA OFFICE: 58 FULHAM ROAD LONDON SW3 6HH T: +44 (0) 20 7225 6700 HARRODSESTATES.COM
A23499-AYR-BRJ-DPS-LHP.indd 1
14/06/2013 08:01
A234
08:01
A23499-AYR-BRJ-DPS-RHP.indd 1
14/06/2013 08:00
KnightFrank.co.uk
Eaton Place, Belgravia SW1
Two bedroom flat with excellent proportions An immaculate and well presented first and second floor maisonette with the benefit of high ceilings and a grand drawing room. 2 bedroom suites, drawing room, dining room, kitchen, guest cloakroom, roof terrace, balcony. EPC Rating D. Approximately 158 sq m (1,699 sq ft) Share of Freehold Guide price: ÂŁ5,500,000 (BGV130031)
KnightFrank.co.uk/belgravia belgravia@knightfrank.com 020 3641 5910 JSA Jackson-Stops & Staff charlespuxley@jackson-stops.com 020 7581 5881
KnightFrank.co.uk
Grosvenor Gardens Mews South, Belgravia SW1 Two bedroom house with excellent proportions
Luxury newly refurbished house for rent located in a gated mews. Master bedroom with en suite bathroom, a further double bedroom with en suite bathroom. Reception room with dining area, kitchen, cinema room, guest cloak room, garage. EPC rating C. Approximately 203 sq m (2,193 sq ft) Available Furnished Guide price: ÂŁ3,000 per week (BEQ178952)
KnightFrank.co.uk/lettings belgravialettings@knightfrank.com 020 3641 6006
2013-06-18 10:22:26
1
RESIDENTIAL
cluttons.com/london
Chapel Street London SW1X 4 reception rooms I 5 bedrooms I 4 bathrooms I kitchen/breakfast room I conservatory south-facing garden I EPC rating E A wider than average terraced townhouse with high ceilings and well proportioned rooms, located to the east of Belgrave Square close to Motcomb Street and Sloane Square
Guide price ÂŁ6,950,000 freehold Belgravia office
belgravia@cluttons.com
020 7730 0303
1
RESIDENTIAL
cluttons.com/london
Bourne Street London SW1W reception room I 3 bedrooms I 3 bathrooms I kitchen/breakfast room further bedroom/study | conservatory | EPC rating D A newly refurbished Belgravia townhouse with charming period features and plenty of storage, ideally situated between Sloane Square and Eaton Square
Unfurnished ÂŁ1,850 per week Belgravia office
belgravia@cluttons.com
020 7730 0303
Eaton Gate, Belgravia SW1 • 3 Bedrooms
• Garden
• 3 Bathrooms (2 en suite)
• Approx. 2,614 sq ft (242.8 sq m)
• 2 Reception rooms
• EPC rating: current (D) potential (D)
• Kitchen
“ A beautifully presented ground floor maisonette in this fine period building”
Guide price £5,500,000 Leasehold with 81 years remaining
For more information call Simon Godson on 020 7306 1610 or email sgodson@waellis.com
W.A.Ellis LLP 174 Brompton Road London SW3 1HP
waellis.com
Graham Terrace, Belgravia SW1 • 5 Bedrooms
• Swimming pool
• 5 Bathrooms
• Gym and steam room
• 3 Reception rooms
• 3 Car garage
• Kitchen/breakfast room
• Approx. 5,151 sq ft (479 sq m)
• Roof terrace
• EPC rating: current (D) potential (C)
“ This outstanding property provides a private playground behind an unassuming exterior”
£15,000 per week Furnished or unfurnished
For more information call Lucy Morton on 020 7306 1630 or email lmorton@waellis.com
W.A.Ellis LLP 174 Brompton Road London SW3 1HP
waellis.com
Potential tenants are advised that administration fees may be payable when renting a property. Please ask for details of our charges.
A23498-WEL-BRJ-DPS-LHP.indd 1
11/06/2013 15:25
A234
15:25
A23498-WEL-BRJ-DPS-RHP.indd 1
11/06/2013 15:26
ESTATEAGENTS, AGENTS, SURVEYORS SURVEYORS AND AND PROPERTY PROPERTY CONSULTANTS CONSULTANTS ESTATE
81Elizabeth ElizabethStreet, Street,Eaton Eaton Square, Square, London London SW1W SW1W 9PG 9PG 81 Tel: 020 020 7730 7730 9253 9253 Fax: Fax: 020 020 7730 7730 8212 8212 Tel: Email: reception@bestgapp.co.uk Email: reception@bestgapp.co.uk
www.bestgapp.co.uk www.bestgapp.co.uk
Over 100 years experience in Belgravia
Eaton Square, SW1 A well presented garden maisonette situated on the south side of the EATON TERRACE, SW1
• Kitchen/Breakfast Room • Study * Drawing Room: • Master Bedroom suite square with high ceilings and a south facing reception room opening * Dining Room: A well appointed family house situated close to Sloane Square, arranged over five floors • 2nd Bedroom onto a garden. * 2 Further Reception Rooms: to provide spacious accommodation extending to 272 sq m (2,936 sq ft) with excellent • Shower Room * Master Bedroom Suite: entertaining space and a 14.6 m (47’) rear garden. • WC * 3/4 Further Bedrooms: • Garden * 3 Bathrooms: • Porter Freehold £5,750,000 * Garden
Leasehold
£2,650,000
ESTATEAGENTS, AGENTS, SURVEYORS SURVEYORS AND AND PROPERTY PROPERTY CONSULTANTS CONSULTANTS ESTATE
81Elizabeth ElizabethStreet, Street,Eaton Eaton Square, Square, London London SW1W SW1W 9PG 9PG 81 Tel: 020 020 7730 7730 9253 9253 Fax: Fax: 020 020 7730 7730 8212 8212 Tel: Email: reception@bestgapp.co.uk Email: reception@bestgapp.co.uk
www.bestgapp.co.uk www.bestgapp.co.uk
Over 100 years experience in Belgravia
Eaton Terrace, SW1 A substantialTERRACE, family house designed in a contemporary style arranged EATON SW1
• Drawing Room: • Dining Room: * Drawing Room: • 2 Further Reception Rooms: * Dining Room: over five floors extending to 284 sqm (3,061 sq ft) situated close to A well appointed family house situated close to Sloane Square, arranged over five floors • Kitchen/Family Room: * 2 Further Reception Rooms: Sloane Square and Elizabeth Street with a fabulous to provide spacious accommodation extending to garden. 272 sq m (2,936 sq ft) with excellent • Master Bedroom Suite: * Master Bedroom Suite: entertaining space and a 14.6 m (47’) rear garden. • 3/4 Further Bedrooms: * 3/4 Further Bedrooms: • 2 Bathrooms (1 en suite) * 3 Bathrooms: • Laundry Room: * Garden Freehold £5,750,000 • Garden
Freehold
£5,250,000
JSA - Strutt & Parker: 0207 235 9959
EBURY STREET, BELGRAVIA From timeless period houses to elegant apartments, from immaculately preserved historic buildings to award-winning contemporary design, Grosvenor offers the most diverse, distinguished and desirable range of London rental apartments in Belgravia.
For more information on our Ebury Street portfolio, contact us on 0207 312 6449 or residential.lettings@grosvenor.com
77-79 Ebury Street, Belgravia, SW1W 0NZ www.andrewreeves.co.uk
Grosvenor Gardens, Belgravia SW1 £599,950 Leasehold Newly refurbished one bedroom apartment on the raised ground floor of a period property. Benefitting from open-plan living space with integrated kitchen and granite worktops. High ceilings, parquet flooring in reception room/kitchen. Ideally located for the amenities of the West End and transport connections from Victoria Station. Would make a great pied-a-terre or rental investment. • Open-plan living room/kitchen • Double bedroom • Bathroom • Air-conditioning • Communal roof terrace • Leasehold – 80 years remaining
Consort Rise, Belgravia SW1 £975 per week Fully Furnished Most impressive and well-proportioned three bedroom apartment in superb condition, comprising two double bedrooms and one single, two modern bathrooms, fully integrated kitchen and spacious open-plan living room. Features include high ceilings, surroundsound throughout, electric blinds and air conditioning. Fully furnished to a high standard. Underground parking, gymnasium, sauna and 24hr concierge. • Open-plan living room • Integrated kitchen • 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms • Air-conditioning • Gymnasium & sauna • Underground parking • 24-hour concierge
Lettings Office: lettings@andrewreeves.co.uk +44 (0)20 7881 1366
Sales Office: sales@andrewreeves.co.uk +44 (0)20 7881 1333
BOURNE STREET, SW1 A generously proportioned, wider than average house arranged over four floors, close to Sloane Square. Energy Rating: D. 6 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms (3 en suite), drawing room, dining room, study, garden, garage, under pavement storage vaults. Freehold Guide Price ÂŁ7,750,000
BELGRAVIA 020 7824 7900 belgravia@johndwood.co.uk
Belgravia Residents Journal July13.indd 1
www.johndwood.co.uk
12/06/2013 13:34
Chelsea Fulham & Parsons Green Kensington & Holland Park Knightsbridge, Belgravia & Mayfair Notting Hill & Bayswater West Chelsea & South Kensington
Sales 020 7225 3866 Sales 020 7731 7100 Sales 020 7938 3666 Sales 020 7235 9959 Sales 020 7221 1111 Sales 020 7373 1010
Lettings 020 7589 9966 Lettings 020 7731 7100 Lettings 020 7938 3866 Lettings 020 7235 9959 Lettings 020 7221 1111 Lettings 020 7373 1010
City Office Professional Valuations UK Commercial & Residential Residential Investment Property Management
020 7600 3456 020 7318 5039 020 7629 7282 020 7318 5196 020 7052 9417
struttandparker.com
Chester Street | Belgravia | SW1 1,405 sq ft (130.53 sq m) EPC rating D
A well-presented three bedroom flat with a patio garden and off street parking adjacent to the property. Entrance hall | Reception room | Master bedroom with en suite bathroom | Second double bedroom | Shower room | Third bedroom/study | Utility room | Patio garden | Off street parking Asking price ÂŁ1,950,000 Long leasehold
Knightsbridge 020 7235 9959 bertie.hare@struttandparker.com
Scan this QR code with your camera phone to read more about this property. Free QR code readers are available to download from our website at struttandparker.com/qrcode
Holbein Place, off Sloane Square | Belgravia | SW1 1,903 sq ft (176.8 sq m) EPC rating E
A bright penthouse apartment offering spacious accommodation over the third and fourth floors within this secure development by Sloane Square. Double reception room | Kitchen | Master suite | Second suite | Study/bedroom 3 | WC | Extensive roof terrace | Lift | 2 underground parking spaces | Resident estate manager Asking price ÂŁ4,850,000 Share of freehold
Knightsbridge 020 7235 9959 JSA W.A.Ellis 020 7306 1610 charlie.willis@struttandparker.com
Scan this QR code with your camera phone to read more about this property. Free QR code readers are available to download from our website at struttandparker.com/qrcode
Chelsea Fulham & Parsons Green Kensington & Holland Park Knightsbridge, Belgravia & Mayfair Notting Hill & Bayswater West Chelsea & South Kensington
Sales 020 7225 3866 Sales 020 7731 7100 Sales 020 7938 3666 Sales 020 7235 9959 Sales 020 7221 1111 Sales 020 7373 1010
Lettings 020 7589 9966 Lettings 020 7731 7100 Lettings 020 7938 3866 Lettings 020 7235 9959 Lettings 020 7221 1111 Lettings 020 7373 1010
struttandparker.com
West Eaton Place Mews | Belgravia | SW1 2,742 (254.7 sq m) EPC Rating D
A beautifully presented architect-designed house with exceptional entertaining space in this exclusive address in Belgravia. Entrance hall | Drawing room | Dining room | Kitchen/breakfast room | Sitting room | Balcony | Master bedroom suite | Bedroom suite 2 | Study | Garage/store | Mews parking Asking price ÂŁ5,950,000 Long leasehold
Knightsbridge 020 7235 9959 james.gilbert-green@struttandparker.com
Scan this QR code with your camera phone to read more about this property. Free QR code readers are available to download from our website at struttandparker.com/qrcode
BELGRAVIA Resident’s Journal J U LY 201 3
I S S U E 01 4
The Belgravia Residents’ Journal is published independently by Runwild Media Group with regular editorial contributions from The Belgravia Residents’ Association. To become a member of the BRA, visit www.belgraviaresidents.org.uk. We would highly value any feedback you wish to email us with: belgravia@residentsjournal.co.uk; or telephone us on 020 7987 4320.
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
BELGRAVIA 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
JULY 2013 • Issue 14