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CONTENTS 12
24
A Force of Nature
The French Connection
Stephen Milton meets Sir David Attenborough to talk about his decade-spanning career and the future of our planet
Mike Peake discovers the sartorial, educational and culinary impact that the French community has had on South Ken
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The Circus Comes to Town
Drawing Dreams
Artistic Director of Cirque du Soleil’s spectacular KOOZA reveals all about the breathtaking show at the Royal Albert Hall
Gemma Taylor discovers that living in the Royal Borough has inspired many authors to write and illustrate children’s books
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Sophie’s World
Famous Last Words
Matilda Long speaks to actress Sophie Winkleman about the Royal Borough, her diverse acting career and British fashion
Olivia Sharpe compiles the ultimate guide to buying engagement rings in the capital, just in time for Valentine’s
98 Taking a Bow World-renowned racing driver Michael Schumacher reveals to Richard Brown how he constantly pushes himself to the limit
Image courtesy of Audemars Piguet
CONTENTS
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FEBRUARY 2013 s issUE 012 Editor Annabel Harrison
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Contributing Editors Richard Brown, Gemma Taylor
Editorial Director Kate Harrison
Editorial Assistants Olivia Sharpe, Natalie Bollu
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Head of Finance Elton Hopkins
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Associate Publisher Sophie Roberts
Production Manager Fiona Fenwick
Client Relationship Director Felicity Morgan-Harvey
Production Hugo Wheatley, Alex Powell
Managing Director Eren Ellwood
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From the
EDITOR
“I have only been doing my job – something I absolutely love and take immense pleasure from – so why would I feel the need to step on a pulpit and receive so much commendation? A life is a life; you either sit on it or do something with it.” Sir David Attenborough certainly can’t be accused of ‘sitting on it’ and for anyone making proactive New Year’s resolutions, it’s worth taking a leaf out of the inimitable octogenarian’s book. Brightening up the winter gloom, and igniting our passion for travel, are two spectacular new series benefitting from the much-loved Attenborough voiceover; Africa on the BBC, an awe-inspiring journey through the vast and diverse continent, and Natural Curiosities on Eden, filmed entirely in the UK. Stephen Milton speaks to the man himself (p. 12), and finds him as knowledgeable, humble and charismatic as you’d expect. If you feel the need to take a break from documentaries about the natural world, however fascinating they might be, head to the Royal Albert Hall, playing host to Cirque du Soleil’s KOOZA until 14 February; artistic director Michael G. Smith gave me the insider’s scoop before I reviewed one of its jaw-dropping performances (p. 18). If you wish to enjoy culture further afield, head to the heavenly hideaway that is Schloss Elmau in the Bavarian Alps; I found the combination of culture, cuisine, spa treatments and fresh mountain air to be utterly intoxicating (p. 106). Sarah Collinson had a rather more active time on the slopes in St Moritz; fit in a skiing break before the Europe ski season ends (p. 112). We can’t ignore the fact that, in addition to Christmas, Valentine’s Day is considered one of the most romantic of the year and, so we’re told, most popular for proposals. For any gentlemen looking to pop that all-important question, and braving the ring choice themselves, Olivia Sharpe compiles an invaluable guide (p. 55) to ensure the lucky lady is delighted.
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Annabel Harrison Follow us on Twitter @KandCMagazine or email KCeditor@runwildgroup.co.uk with any comments
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Sir David in the Oxford Museum Photography: Jonathan Ford
FEATURE
A FoRcE oF
Nature Sir David Attenborough reflects on his decade-spanning career, the startling legacy he is shaping and the future of our planet. Stephen Milton meets Britain’s most well-known, and loved, natural historian
BritiSh televiSion was a very different animal when Sir David Attenborough was a spritely producer at the BBC. Joining the state broadcaster in 1952, after serving two years of national service with the royal navy, the young zoology graduate worked his way up through the ranks as a producer and presenter of such glorious output as quiz show Animal, Vegetable, Mineral? and Song Hunter, a series about folk music presented by the late, great Alan lomax. Attenborough, ever honest, affectionately refers to both series as “ghastly”: “When i joined the BBC, there were half a dozen of us working in the non-fiction department, and each and every programme we made was just awful,” he chuckles, at the hempel hotel in central london, where we meet. “Knitting, short stories, religion, discussion, politicians, cooking, gardening, archaeology; we did them all and they were simply terrible programmes. Fortunately, hardly anyone saw them; barely anybody had a television 50 or 60 years ago. ninety per cent of the country didn’t see television at all and they were much better off without it!” one can only assume operations back then are in stark contrast to the how BBC operates now – our interview subject offers a questioning furrow of the eyebrows in response to the humorous suggestion that maybe things aren’t so different. the godfather of the natural world is then reminded of a vivid encounter with the head of television back in the late 1950s. “i remember being hauled in by the chief who had, for some reason, paid the copyright for a terrible
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short story about a man who works on a till in a fishmonger’s shop. The story was about him falling in love with a girl. Quite rightly, I said it was impossible; you couldn’t show that on television because there was no story there at all. And he said, ‘Well I’ve paid 50 quid for the rights, so to balance the accounts you have to do ‘something’ with it. I said: ‘Great, I’ll do it as a ballet’. So we choreographed this short story into a ballet about a man in a fishmonger’s shop, and the entire production was a disaster. But the Head of Television was delighted, saying ‘Great, we’ve got rid of that 50 quid then’. TV in those days was, quite simply, amateur hour.” Regardless of what he is saying, there’s an air of chemical reverie surrounding the legendary Sir David (although I’m sure this modest man would dislike being defined as such). In the reception of the hotel, waiting for the call to meet the globally admired broadcasting star, the members of staff are scuttling about rather feverishly, grinning widely each time they enter and exit the drawing room. As he enters the room, it’s apparent that Attenborough is regally commanding but at the same time exudes a casual charm in his trademark cream slacks and a lilac V-neck sweater. He is also remarkably youthful for his age – he’s 87 this year – and enjoying a seminal milestone in his career, namely six decades charting and documenting the wonders of the natural world, encouraging generations to marvel at the beauty of the planet and its ecosystems.
Sir David is not one for praise or adulation: “I have only been doing my job, one I absolutely love and take immense pleasure from, so why would I feel the need to receive so much commendation?” It’s fair to say he has contributed more to the public psyche than most could ever dream of but as I learn during our interview, David is not one for praise. In fact, he appears to have an allergy to such adulation. “Bah,” he scowls. “I have only been doing my job, something I absolutely love and take immense pleasure from, so why would I feel the need to step on a pulpit and receive so much commendation? A life is a life; you either sit on it, or do something with it.” Attenborough seemingly has no intention of ‘sitting on it’ this year. Already wrapped on a new documentary series, Natural Curiosities, which shines the spotlight on the wondrous evolution of species, he’s soon to travel to the Great Wall of China where he’ll study newly discovered fossils before heading to the tropics of Brazil for a series on the mechanisation of spider webs. Clearly, advancing age poses no threat to his tremendous output and Attenborough seems, if anything, to be ramping up his work commitments. There’s only one problem right now, as he gently raps a few times on his left knee, moving further down his leg, peering at it. “This here is the only maturing issue I’ve had in the last few years. This is the reason why I can’t climb trees anymore or run as fast as I used to. Other than that, I feel as fit and healthy as I’ve ever done. I have no intention of slowing down. For as long as I’m vertical, I’ll keep on doing what I do.” Home for Attenborough is an Edwardian manor on Richmond Hill, where he raised children Robert,
FEATURE
who is now an anthropologist in Australia, and Susan, a teacher living in Woking, with beloved wife Jane, who sadly passed away 15 years ago. It’s his favourite place on the planet, which says it all for a man who’s seen it all. “I’ve been very lucky, luckier than most, to see so many wonders of the planet – the Great Barrier Reef, the tundra of the Antarctic, the eerie expanse of the Gobi Desert – and there’s still so much to see. “But when it comes down to it, home is where my heart is. I love pottering round my garden and I like putting my feet up and reading the papers. Even when I was younger, I made sure to only spend short bursts in the field; the longest I ever went away for was for four months out in Borneo. I wanted to get back to my home in Richmond and that feeling will always remain.” It seems Attenborough is attempting a mocking stab at sarcasm as he explains his uncharacteristically lack of green living in his own home with a blithe look. “I really do have all the lights on, the central heating on and the windows wide open,” he exclaims, then with a wry grin: “No, of course I’m not completely like that and I do try my best to operate in a green manner. But I do like my home comforts too, if I’m honest.” Famed for award-winning series Life on Earth,
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Life in the Freezer and The Blue Planet, Attenborough is staying closer to home for Natural Curiosities, which was filmed entirely in the UK. The factual documentaries examine the extraordinary evolution of fascinating animals such as the giraffe, the platypus and the chameleon. “It was certainly a new experience to remain on British soil,”, says Attenborough. “I think the furthest we strayed was up to Scotland but this series is pioneering in that it looks at animals in a way that no other programme on television does; outside of their habitats, with the full attention just on them. We wanted to eliminate the surrounding aspects, which can sometimes prove distracting, to focus on the evolutionary genius of these creatures. It’s a project I’m immensely proud of.” Attenborough, knighted more than 20 years ago, is undoubtedly the quintessential judge of the rapid environmental changes that ravage and threaten our planet, and having witnessed the damage up close for decades, it’s a surprise to find him almost apathetic to the situation, almost defeated. “The human race is continuing to grow at an alarming rate. No matter what we do now, there are going to be a billion more people here within the next decade. Where are they all going to go? The Chancellor of the Exchequer talks about growth and so on, but you can’t grow indefinitely, infinitely. I do wonder where we’re going to end up, what the future holds. Of course one can become despondent when you see the little effort that’s being made, where all the emphasis is on the economy.” Attenborough interrupts himself, aware a rant has infiltrated the conversation. He smiles and says, in the mellifluous tones we all so love: “There’s just so much
beauty in the world out there; everyone needs to see it, everyone needs to stop and smell the roses, really smell them. I’ve been lucky enough in my lifetime to do so. Is it fair that I’m one of the only ones?” David Attenborough’s Natural Curiosities, exclusive to Eden Tuesdays at 8pm from 29 January (Sky 532/ Virgin 208)
FEATURE
“The human race is continuing to grow at an alarming rate. No matter what we do now, there are going to be a billion more people here within the next decade. Where are they all going to go?... You can’t grow indefinitely, infinitely”
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Ko za o Comes To Town
January shall be made all the more enjoyable as KOOZA, a show from the spectacular Cirque du Soleil stable, arrives at the Royal Albert Hall; ANNABEL HARRISON speaks to Artistic Director Michael G Smith
FEATURE
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The audience, collectively and unconsciously, holds its breath. The fourth and final performer, no taller than a 12-year-old, is dynamically but precisely flipped upwards, in a move defying gravity, onto the shoulders of a man only slightly taller. he in turn is anchored on another’s shoulders, the strongest looking of the four men now forming what can only be described as a human tower. no pyramid structure, like cheerleaders; no support system of props or people; no copping out by using a tiny, feather-weight female performer. in the Royal albert hall, with its cavernous central atrium, this sight is jaw-dropping; the fourth, and highest, performer almost seems level with the boxes, and stays put. This was my first cirque du Soleil experience, aged 13, and the show was alegria. Since then, i have marvelled at Quidam, also at the Royal albert hall, and declared KÀ, in residence at the MGM in Vegas, the best thing i have ever seen on stage. hyperbole perhaps, but these performers, even if you subtract the colossal sets, colourful costumes, elaborate make-up and playful storylines, are truly masters of movement. The mission of cirque du Soleil is “to invoke the imagination, provoke the senses and evoke the emotions of people around the world” and for me, it has on each occasion done just that. it is with excitement, then, that i see posters for KOOZa popping up around London, injecting a shot of colour into the gloom settling after the christmas and new Year frenzy. What can we expect from KOOZa, then? “Fear and wonder”, declares its artistic director Michael G Smith. “When cirque du Soleil started, the founders wanted to reinvent circus and by the time KOOZa came along in 2007, they had done that. i think this is cirque du Soleil’s tribute to traditional circus; they have done what they have set out to do.” inspired by the Sanskrit word koza, which means ‘box, chest or treasure’, the name was chosen because one of the underlying concepts of the production is the idea of a ‘circus in a box’. Smith also promises “wonderful, raw, unpretentious energy” from the stars of the show, the performers, their thunder not stolen by expansive sets. The emotion invoked, is as always, of importance: “if people go out of the hall thinking they’ve seen the impossible, the hope is that it gives them joy and also helps them to
think they can achieve the impossible in their lives.” The cast and crew of KOOZa is an international one, representing 22 nationalities, and Smith is responsible not only for the quality of the show produced, day in, day out, but also for managing the 53 artists, who all live, work and travel together. “The audience’s expectations are very high and we are very conscious of what we have to deliver in order to achieve this. it requires a lot of dedication and hard work and we’re tasked with making sure this happens.” accustomed to performing in the KOOZa Big Top, Michael explains that the challenges presented by the Royal albert hall are numerous and the danger of being unprepared cannot be underestimated. new lighting, stage size, backstage space and points of reference all pose problems and “we’re unaccustomed to having part of the audience so high up; we have a lot of entrances and exits through stage traps which normally can’t be seen in the Big Top and we have to rechoreograph the entire technical department under the stage because they mustn’t be seen. The height for certain acts, where the artists are used to flying above the audience, but now will be face to face with part of the audience, is also critical.” although this takes time, “it’s worth it because of the prestige that the Royal albert hall brings as a venue. it’s very special.” indeed it is, and Smith is also full of praise for London’s history and British culture which is “extremely supportive of the arts. For us, London is a really exciting place because the audience is very educated. We know that our game has to be high and that we’re competing with incredible performances around town.” Something that helps Smith maintain this a-game attitude is the fact that he was a performer before he took up the directing mantle; as he explains, “my directing style is evolved from directors i appreciated and respected… i don’t think that screaming and shouting at people is the way to go so i always treat performers as i
Reworking the show for the Royal Albert Hall is “worth it because of the prestige it brings. It’s very special”
FEATURE
would have wanted to be treated, in order to get the best performance.” Smith is full of praise for Cirque as a company, which has experienced phenomenal growth since its foundation in 1984, not least because “the company was created by a group of street performers, who were driven by their own creativity, as opposed to just trying to make business with a show that works”. Now with ten touring and 11 resident shows (seven of which are in Las Vegas), the founders have proven that a background in flips and tricks was indeed more valuable than a business degree: “Because of where they came from, the company instilled certain values and philosophies that are less businessoriented than other companies. Our multicultural, diverse international community helps all of us to be better human beings because of the understanding that differences do exist.” Over the course of nearly three decades, more than 100 million spectators in 300 cities across six continents have been brought together and delighted by Cirque du Soleil extravaganzas; I’d urge you to make sure you’re one of them. KOOZA, Royal Albert Hall, until 14 February www.royalalberthall.com / 0845 401 5045 www.cirquedusoleil.com/kooza
KOOZA: OuR REVIEW KOOZA tells the story of the Innocent, “a naive but charming clown striving to find his place in the world”. He is led on his journey, dressed in a thoroughly modern stripey onesie and hanging on to his beloved kite, by a troupe of silly characters including the Trickster, the King, the Dog and circus clowns. Colourful, contemporary, energetic and for the most part fast-paced, the circus-themed show is surely enhanced by the venue more than any other location on the tour; the Royal Albert Hall feels like the most spectacular Big Top and the requisite audience participation (which ranges from hilarious to adult-themed via slapstick) works very well. Every stand-out moment of the show concerns the jawdropping, gasp-inducing feats of the various acrobats as they push their bodies to the absolute limit. Marvel at hula-hooping and trapeze-trick artists, unicycling acrobats, tightrope walkers and Wheel of Death daredevils. The three girls doing what can only be described as synchronised dancecontortionism and the springboard/stilt acrobatics stand out most for me. Verdict: non-stop fun for all the family.
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Photography: Austin Hargrave
FEATURE
Sophie’s WoRld
Matilda long speaks to Sophie Winkleman, also known as lady Frederick Windsor, about london, la and her diverse acting career
Sophie Winkleman may have hopped across the pond to settle in la but she certainly hasn’t left london behind forever. Best known for the role of Big Suze in Peep Show, the lovable on/off squeeze of the sitcom’s joint lead, as well as comic appearances in Lead Balloon and Harry & Paul, Sophie has certainly proved that she has a strong funny bone. it is no surprise, then, that she was snapped up by the american comedy juggernaut Two and a Half Men to play Zoey, the love interest of ashton kutcher’s character. But not to fear; she hasn’t forsaken the city where she grew up. “i miss my family and friends hugely, of course, and i miss walking in london. you can’t really walk anywhere in la which is very strange”. as well as getting used to travelling on four wheels instead of two feet, Sophie has a long list of favourite places in london, which she has clearly found difficult to leave behind. “i miss the Bluebird Café and the lovely pubs – the Coopers arms, The phoenix, The Surprise, David Wynne’s sculpture of the Boy with a Dolphin on the embankment, the gorgeous new addition of Colbert on Sloane Square and the huge swimming pool on Chelsea manor Street.” Sophie’s sense of style is also firmly British and she favours austique on the king’s Road for nearly everything: “it’s brilliant for gorgeous party dresses but also for finding the best jeans, the most beautiful silk pyjamas, the best lip balm and the prettiest cashmere jumpers; it’s just girl heaven.” other favourites include French Sole on the king’s Road, the Shop at Bluebird and the young label Bolzoni & Walsh, “unclichéd and beautiful”. She hopes to return to london to be near her parents when she and her husband (lord Frederick Windsor, son of the Queen’s cousin prince michael of kent) start a family, though “i can’t imagine wanting to take so much time off work at the moment”. This is no surprise, considering the success she is currently enjoying, as part of a show whose audiences have topped 15 million. She finds it “fascinating being part of something so phenomenally successful”, especially a show which is such a far cry from some of the lower budget projects she has done; “one small trailer to change in and half a pizza to share between cast and crew for lunch!” The quality of the show is also not something she takes for granted: “The machine that drives [it] is a gleaming and well-oiled one. The team of writers is drilled to produce a coherent funny story with a minimum of three jokes per page. it’s hard, mathematical stuff.” Could this formulaic approach to writing be the key to the difference between american and British senses of humour? having starred in both, Sophie is well placed to answer:“i think the americans have cornered the market in prolific, week in week out quality – Friends, Frasier, Seinfeld. They are perfectionists for 300 episodes rather than 13.” This doesn’t mean she thinks this style is necessarily better: “i just
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think it’s part of the huge, ambitious scale of american thinking”. Brits, on the other hand, she praises for being “deliciously daft (Miranda), beautifully hopeless (Alan Partridge) or brilliantly bleak (The Office)” and for having “mastered the art of the sketch show”. although Sophie’s comedy credentials are impressive, her talents also stretch to more serious affairs. Working with the doyen of drama, Julian Fellowes, on the iTV drama Titanic gave her a chance to stretch her acting muscles: “it was such an extraordinary, harrowing story and amazing to be a part of re-telling it”. Working with Julian, whose work she greatly admires, was something she was clearly excited by: “it’s always a gift to deliver a great writer’s lines”. in the breaks from bringing the tragedy of the famous story to life, Sophie also found time to show off another of her skills, creating anagrams of the names of her fellow cast members (a talent with words perhaps honed by her love of The Guardian crosswords). linus Roache would doubtless have been pleased with ‘enrich a soul’, Celia imrie perhaps less so with ‘a limier ice’. as well as onscreen work, Sophie has demonstrated her calibre in other mediums, stemming from her background as a member of the renowned Cambridge Footlights and national youth Theatre. There are plans to return to the stage in the near future, in “a play written by Jonathan lynn next year which i’m very excited about”. This move was prompted by her participation in a production earlier this year with eric idle, Russell Brand and eddie izzard, where she “realised how much i missed the stage”. Slightly unusually, Sophie’s preferred medium is neither television nor theatre but radio, and as such we will hear her participating in a number of radio plays. her passion for this format is evident through her extensive experience, notably for Radio 4: “i love creating a whole world with just the voice.” a diverse range of skills and the ability to perfect both serious and comedic performances is something towards which Sophie strives. actresses who inspire her include olivia Colman, her Peep Show co-star, an undoubtedly fantastic comic actress who can also convey the most serious of issues in heart-rending performances, as shown by Tyrannosaur. emily Watson, Gwyneth paltrow, Julia Roberts and Claire Danes also inspire, each with a repertoire ranging from deadly serious to fun and light-hearted. “all of them make it look easy, which i admire more than ‘acty’ acting where you can see the effort and etch-lines behind the performance.” When quizzed on her proudest career moment, Sophie refrains from mentioning the roles that have brought her fame but instead looks to the future: “i hope it’s yet to come, and i hope it’s on the stage.” With Sophie’s work ethic, passion and evident versatility, i don’t doubt that this wish will be fulfilled before long.
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The French
Connection With an estimated 300-400,000 French people now living in London, it’s no secret that the majority of these expats have put down roots in South Kensington. MIKE PEAKE reports on the sartorial, educational and culinary impact this has had across London. We say, allez les Français!
All illustrations: Mai Osawa
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Kilburn famously welcomes the irish and newington Green is a magnet for Greeks, while Koreans, apparently, like to settle in new malden. young graduates from france make a beeline for Kentish Town but for most other french arrivals in london – those with families especially – there’s only one place to put down roots; south Kensington or little france as it is known; Paris’ unofficial 21st arrondissement. with french ties going back more than 100 years, south Ken’s cross-channel connection has recently turned into a micro-invasion where the smell of freshly-made croissants intertwines with a sharp increase in sightings of chanel handbags and youngsters clad in clothes from Petit bateau. lack of employment opportunities in france, as well as a proposed set of punitive wealth taxes, have been blamed for the influx of france’s elite but the country’s loss is our gain. isn’t a dash of french style a boost to any neighbourhood? “i think the main attraction of south Kensington to french people arriving in london would be the school, right next to the institut francais,” says Justine Goy, a french expat living in the area. if you’re stepping off the plane from charles de Gaulle airport, she exlains, the school is exactly what french parents are looking for thanks to its superb reputation, even though – if reports are to be believed – there’s a long waiting list to get in and fees can be north of £3,000 a term. as the french might say, “Pour les petits, ca vaut la peine” (for the little ones, it’s worth it.) The lycée français charles de Gaulle – more commonly known as the french school – was established in 1915 with just 120 pupils and currently occupies a large plot on cromwell road, opposite the natural History museum. by the 1970s its student body had swelled to more than 2,000 eager french learners; actress Jacqueline bisset and writer/broadcaster/sometime politician Gyles brandreth are former pupils. Today, the school and its various annexes across london cater to
4,000 students – and most of them are french. The french consulate in cromwell road estimates that there are between 300,000 and 400,000 french people living in london, and south Kensington is irrefutably a home from home. a stroll down bute street in particular is laced with french charm, from the french bookshop to la Grande bouchée deli, the bonne bouché bakery and raison d’Être café. even the Zetland arms pub on the corner attracts a french crowd. open your eyes and you’ll spot a sliver of french life everywhere, from the newsagent stocking Le Monde to clothes shops comptoir Des cotonniers on the King’s road and Zadig & Voltaire on westbourne Grove. Then there’s la cave À fromage, the muchloved cheese shop on cromwell Place – just the ticket for that hard–to-find bleu des basques or a creamy rocamadour. south Ken may play host to london’s most recognised french population but communities are also to be found south of the river, in Putney, wandsworth, battersea and fulham, and further north, in Kentish Town and Hampstead. Testimony to the burgeoning popularity of these Gallic hot spots are the schools established to cater for the children; the lycée has primary schools in ealing (andré malraux), fulham (marie d’orliac) and clapham (wix) and its french bilingual college london is based in Kentish Town. Property
The Lycée Français Charles de Gaulle was established in 1915 with just 120 pupils
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searches are booming across London too; French web users searching online for prime London properties in the past three months has risen 19 per cent compared with the same period last year. With so many French in the South Ken
Tax lawyer François Tripet said that many choose London because of the UK’s tax regime
While you’re likely to find a South Ken Frenchman poking around the artefacts in the V&A, there’s arguably a better chance of finding one in the French Institute in Cromwell Place. Founded in 1910, it comprises a language centre, library and French bistro and also runs the Ciné Lumière, the popular French cinema in neighbouring Queensberry Place which was refurbished in 2008 and reopened by Catherine Deneuve. The Institute’s range of French-tinged events plays a significant part in attracting French arrivals to South Ken. Where else in London can you take in a French comic-book festival or film festival? Throw wine-appreciation events such as The Importance Of Terroir and The Wines Of Burgundy into the mix and it’s a wonder that any of the new arrivals ever leave SW7. One of the few things the locals don’t seem to hanker after, however, are visits from French politicians. When former President Sarkozy dropped in on the area in 2008, the Daily Telegraph struggled to find anyone who was pleased to see him. Nor, it would seem, would Mr Hollande and his 75 per cent proposed top tier tax rate be any more likely to be greeted by a sea of patriotic flags. Parisian tax lawyer Francois Tripet told the BBC in September that wealthy locals had “already taken the decision to quit France” and that London, for many, was the city of choice because of the UK’s attractive tax regime. Why live as a pauper in Paris, you might extrapolate, when you can live like a Lord in London – especially when it offers French arrivals the chance to do it in such familiarly chic style? Alors. It’s one to philosophise over, perhaps, when you sit down to your next café crème…
neighbourhood, as the prime example, it’s little surprise that a mini-industry has sprung up to accommodate their needs, from French Nanny, a new service set up by two French women in order to hook French-speaking nannies up with French parents (and vice versa), to Artpeggios – a bilingual French/English music and art school in Earl’s Court. Which isn’t to say that the French can’t seamlessly blend in with the Englishborn residents of South Ken; most are at pains to master the language, which is admirable when exactly the opposite is often said about British arrivals seeking a new life in France. “I think the French do generally succeed at learning English,” says Goy. “On a global scale it’s important to master it. English is a useful language to have.”
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Royal Borough
NEWS Covering the whole Royal Borough: Kensington, Chelsea, Knightsbridge, Notting Hill and Holland Park
Illustration: Mai Osawa
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Royal Borough News The latest news, best events and areas of interest for residents of the Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea
Return of a King: The Battle for Afghanistan With Barack Obama having recently indicated 2014 as the earliest date when all troops will finally be removed from Afghanistan, now is no more prudent a time to consider our controversial history with the Islamic Republic. In a speech being given this February at the National Army Museum, award-winning historian William Dalrymple will discuss the First Afghan War which resulted in Britain’s greatest imperial disaster of the 19th century. Dalrymple explains how an entire army of what was then the most powerful military nation in the world was ambushed in the snows of the high passes, and there routed and destroyed by simply-equipped Afghan tribesmen. By doing so, Dalrymple will go on to note the important lessons to be learnt from this first entanglement in Afghanistan in relation to our present involvement. Friday 4 February at 7pm National Army Museum, Royal Hospital Road, SW3 4HT 020 7730 0717; www.nam.ac.uk Standard ticket prices are £10 (concession £7.50)
Images © NAM
Community Growth A North Kensington community kitchen garden has been selected as the 2,012th site by the Mayor of London as part of his food growing initiative Capital Growth. Initiated by the Mayor in 2008, the aim of the scheme was to create more than 2,012 community gardens across London, an aim which has almost been achieved. To celebrate St Charles community garden’s selection, ten fruit trees were planted in December by members of community groups with plots in the garden. Deputy Leader of the Royal Borough, Cllr Nick Paget Brown, Chair of London Food, Rosie Boycott and representatives from Capital Growth were on hand to help with the planting. In addition to receiving ten fruit trees, the St Charles garden was awarded a £1,000 grant and a selection of horticultural tools. A total of 15 community groups can now grow fruit and vegetables in the transformed green space, including Second Half Centre, Age UK, Baraka Youth, Dalgarno Neighbourhood Trust, St Charles School, Blenheim Project, Open Age, the Oremi Centre, St Charles Health and Wellbeing staff, WAND and Living Well. www.rbkc.gov.uk
Left to right: Jill Shaw Ruddock, Founder of Second Half Centre; Cllr Paget-Brown, Deputy Leader of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea; Terry Oliver, the Royal Borough’s Environment Manager; Moira Scarff, Groundwork London; Rosie Boycott, Capital Growth (Chair of London Food Board) and Cllr Pat Healy, St Charles Ward Councillor
THE ROYAL BOROUGH © Brian Aris
© Brian Aris
The Queen of Punk
© Brian Aris
In the 1970s, Deborah Harry’s two-tone bleached blonde hair became such a symbol of her persona that many people believed that Blondie was her real name. The American singer-songwriter was not simply known as the front-woman of New-Wave punk band Blondie but she was also a 70s punk icon and sex symbol, and in 1999, deemed the 12th greatest woman of rock and roll by VH1’s 100 Greatest Women of Rock & Roll. Today her individual look has been emulated by the likes of Madonna and Gwen Stefani and a photographic collection of the legendary Queen of Punk, taken by close friend and photographer Brian Aris, is now being showcased at Proud Chelsea. Among the classic and iconic images of Harry taken between 1977 and 1988, the gallery will also be exhibiting never before seen shots from Aris’ archive, including stills from the video shoot of Island of Lost Souls on the Scilly Islands and sittings in London and New York. Debbie Harry Queen of Punk: Portraits by Brian Aris 17 January – 17 February 2013 Proud Chelsea, 161 King’s Road, SW3 5XP www.proud.co.uk
If You Don’t Let Us Dream, We Won’t Let You Sleep For those of you looking for a wake up call following the lavishness of Valentine’s Day, the new play at the Royal Court Theatre entitled If You Don’t Let Us Dream, We Won’t Let You Sleep, is certain to bring you back to reality. Written by Anders Lustgarten, it explores the current financial crisis and vehemently questions the ethos of austerity by offering an alternative. The play is part of the Royal Court’s Jerwood New Playwrights programme, which aims to discover and support the next generation of world class playwrights and is supported by the Jerwood Charitable Foundation. 15 February – 9 March 2013 Royal Court Theatre Sloane Square, SW1W 8AS www.royalcourttheatre.com
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Groove Is In the Heart Honeypot Children’s Charity is bringing a touch of nostalgia to its spring ball by revisiting the Swinging 60s. The Honeypot Party 2013, being held at The Dorchester Hotel this March, promises to be a fun-filled affair as attendees are required to dress up ‘Austin Powers-style’ in psychedelic prints, box-shaped PVC dresses, bell-bottom jeans and micro-mini skirts, to name just a few of the potential dress options. The evening follows a champagne reception, three-course dinner, entertainment and dancing. Tickets are priced at £200 per person (£2,400 for a table of 12), and all proceeds will go towards the charity which helps thousands of children across the UK. Many of the children in question have had to take up the role of carer at home due to a loved one being terminally ill, or dealing with drug, alcohol or mental health problems. Honeypot also works with vulnerable children from homes with extreme social, financial or emotional challenges. 13 March 2013 020 7602 2631; www.honeypot.org.uk
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Royal Borough News Covering the whole Royal Borough: Kensington, Chelsea, Knightsbridge, Notting Hill and Holland Park
Inspiring Young People Since it was founded in 1971, it has been W11 Opera’s aim to inspire the youth of today, providing them with the unique opportunity of becoming involved in opera. The company has commissioned and produced more than 30 new operas for its cast of 9-18 year olds and all have been made available to schools and youth groups. Because of this, Knight Frank is very proud of having sponsored W11 Opera for the past ten years and feels that W11’s passion for opera and music and developing children’s talents in a unique way is very much in keeping with its own ethos. This Christmas saw the heartfelt and brilliant production of Good Intentions by Julian Philips which asks the challenging question of whether it is humanly possible to resist temptation by following a group of school children as they experience the troubles of growing up and fitting in. www.knightfrank.co.uk/franklyspeaking www.w11opera.org
© Robert Workman
© Robert Workman
© Robert Workman
World’s End and Lots Road: £1 million lottery grant Chelsea’s World’s End and Lots Road are to receive £1million in lottery funding to strengthen community links and make the neighbourhood an even better place to live. Commencing in April, the Big Local programme will have a representative who will work with residents, local community organisations and businesses and ward councillors to develop a plan for the area. Commenting on the enterprise, Cllr Gerard Hargreaves, a local Cremorne ward Councillor, said: “This will be a huge boost to residents and is a great opportunity to strengthen and develop the community. The scheme will be completely resident-led and it will be up to local people to decide how to spend the money to improve their area.” The Big Local is funded by the National Lottery and its goal is to bring together local talent, ambitions, skills and energy from individuals, groups and organisations who want to make their area an even better place to live. www.rbkc.gov.uk
THE ROYAL BOROUGH
Wallace100 Exhibition at the Natural History Museum
Anthony Walker, the chairman of Edwardes Square Scarsdale & Abingdon Association, receives a Gold Standard certificate from the Mayor of the Royal Borough, Cllr Christopher Buckmaster
Gold Standard Residents’ Associations Four residents associations reflecting the diverse and varied nature of the Royal Borough received Gold Standard Awards for their work to improve the quality of life in their communities and make the borough a better place in which to live. Gold Standard Awards were presented to Edwardes Square Scarsdale & Abingdon Association (ESSA), Chelsea Association of Tenants (CATS), Stable Way Residents’ Association and Beaufort Gardens Knightsbridge Residents’ Association at a ceremony in Kensington Town Hall by the Council’s Cabinet Member for Civil Society, Cllr Rock Feilding-Mellen. Congratulating the winners, he said: “Your work undoubtedly helps improve the quality of life in your communities and also in the borough. Recognising and rewarding the good work that residents’ and tenants’ associations continues to be one of my priorities and I want to actively encourage all tenant and resident associations in the borough to seek and attain the Gold Standard.” As well as the award, each association gets a grant of £500 to spend on a project it feels would benefit the association or its local area.
This year marks 100 years since the death of Alfred Russell Wallace, considered by many to be one of the greatest scientists of all time. Wallace independently discovered natural selection and founded evolutionary biogeography. To mark the life of this iconic legend, the Natural History Museum is launching a programme of events to mark this significant anniversary, named Wallace100. Sir David Attenborough has agreed to be the Patron of the Wallace Correspondence Project and Wallace Letters, which has more than 4,000 of his manuscript letters on show to the public. Attenborough was deeply inspired to achieve great things in the realm of natural history because of Wallace’s work and this is why he feels it is important to celebrate his life. Families can follow a Wallace Discovery Trail and take part in lively, interactive Nature Live talks about Wallace in the Attenborough Studio. Lectures discussing Wallace’s life and work will also be held by leading biologists and historians for adults. Natural History Museum, Cromwell Road, SW7 5BD 020 7942 5000; www.nhm.ac.uk
www.rbkc.gov.uk
Kensington Central Library.
Funding Approved for Kensington Central Library refurbishment Built in the 1960s, the Kensington Central Library is in desperate need of a major overhaul. Therefore, updating the electrics, installing a new energy-efficient ventilation system, new hot and cold water systems, new rainwater services and refurbishing the lifts are all featured in the latest plans to modernise the building, something which was recently approved by the Royal Borough’s Cabinet. A total of £5.8 million has been earmarked for the project which will ensure that the building can continue to meet the needs of the community for the next 20 years, at least. Although there will inevitably be some disruption to the library services, the Council is promising to keep this to an absolute minimum and ensure that as much work as possible gets done outside of library opening times. The works will also mean improved office facilities for library staff and also turn under-used parts into further offices, unlocking the potential for renting much needed office space to the local business community. © Natural History Museum
Visit www.rbkc.gov.uk/centralworks for the most up-to-date information
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SCISSORHANDS:
THE LOCAL HAIRDRESSER Base Cuts 252 Portobello Road W11 1LL 020 7727 7068 www.basecuts.com
EDITOR’S PICK:
BRITISH FINE DINING First Floor Restaurant 186 Portobello Road W11 1LA 020 7243 0072 www.firstfloorportobello.co.uk
Photography: Saskia Beresford
Spotlight
Spotlight on...
Portobello Road Famous for its lead role in the hit film Notting Hill, Olivia Sharpe takes a closer look at Portobello Road and why it’s one of the most visited places in London FRom the radical hairdressers to “the tattoo parlour, with a guy outside who got drunk and now can’t remember why he chose ‘I Love Ken’”, Notting Hill’s affectionate portrayal of life on Portobello Road has resulted in tourists from all over the world flocking to it for years. however, this “small village in the middle of the city” is not just where you will find confused tourists searching desperately for the house with the blue door (I’m sorry to say that it was sold awhile ago), but a place loved by locals, Londoners and the world alike as one of the borough’s best kept treasures. Unsurprisingly, Portobello Road is part of an area engulfed in history, the remains of which are still very much apparent today. Now running almost the entire length of Notting hill from north to south, parallel with Ladbroke Grove and the home of one of the capital’s most famous street markets, its face was completely unrecognisable three centuries ago. Before 1740, it was known as Green’s Lane and was nothing more than a winding country path leading from Kensington Gravel Pitts (now Notting hill Gate) up to Kensal Green in the north. however, after 1740, the area now known as Golborne Road became Portobello Farm which took its name from a well-known victory during the War of Jenkins’ ear, when Admiral edward Vernon captured the Spanish-ruled town of Puerto Bello (Portobelo in modern-day Panama). the admiral’s name is still honoured by Vernon Yard which runs off Portobello Road. those heady seafaring days off the Spanish main are referenced through exotic names such as the Portobello Star and the Portobello Gold (today two popular watering-holes). one of the Antique Arcades is even named the Admiral Vernon. It wasn’t until the 19th century that it became a market, and this was purely fruit and vegetable businesses. Its shops and markets thrived, serving the wealthy inhabitants of the neighbouring crescents and terraces, while the working class residents found employment in the vicinity as construction workers, domestic servants, coachmen, messengers, tradesmen and costermongers. the hammersmith and City Railway line was completed in 1864 and Ladbroke Grove station opened. the northern end of Portobello Road came soon after, resulting in the last of the open fields being submerged under brick and concrete. Antique market stalls sprang up following the aftermath of the Second World War thanks to the ‘rag and bone’ men, who would go round collecting unwanted household items and sell them to merchants. the Good Fairy Antiques market is now the busiest market on Portobello Road, opening
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every Saturday at 4am and selling antiques, “some genuine… and some not quite so genuine” (Notting Hill). The markets’ popularity led to the sales people opening their own shops on Portobello Road instead of stalls at the weekends and permanent antique shops are now located here. At 144 Portobello Road lies Kleanthous; set up as a family business back in 1969, the antique store is a watch collector’s sweet shop, stocking an assortment of pre-1960s vintage watches, as well as period jewellery and fine silver pieces. Another long-standing resident is Judy Fox Antiques. Residing at 81 Portobello Road since 1971, it prides itself on bringing to its customers the highest quality Victorian and Edwardian furniture as well as decorative 19th century sculpture and objets d’art. Just opposite, Henry Gregory Antiques deals in Victorian and vintage quality antiques. Prices range from “as low as 50 quid” and up to £15,000. Owner Henry Gregory has been sourcing and buying antiques from all over the British Isles for the last 40 years, and his pieces have even been shipped to overseas clients, making the store an internationally recognisable name.
Thanks to loyal residents, who’ve prevented an invasion of high street chains, Portobello Road remains more or less as it always was Notting Hill is by no means been Portobello Road’s first appearance on the big screen. In the 1971 Disney film Bedknobs and Broomsticks a whole musical sequence is dedicated to its “tokens and treasures”. In television, writer of much-loved British sitcom Only Fools and Horses John Sullivan uses the market as the setting for where conmen Del Boy and Rodney are hoodwinked in the episode Cash and Curry (Sullivan had visited the road before writing the episode and evidently felt it made a likely setting for such a plotline). Its ongoing relationship with the film and television industry has made it the natural home of one Britain’s oldest cinemas, the Electric Cinema, which is a Grade-II listed building. Here you are almost sure to find Tim Burton and wife Helena Bonham Carter indulging in a tipple in the members’ bar. Other celebrities regularly drawn to this fashionable area include Sienna Miller and Kate Moss, who are sometimes seen bargainhunting at the weekend. And, if you’re very lucky, you and your children may also spot Paddington Bear on one of his jaunts. Well-known and respected by the shopkeepers for driving a hard bargain, he is a frequent visitor to the market. Portobello Road already had a history of famous residents before the arrival of celebrities, including English writer and political activist George Orwell who lived there in the winter of 1927 after resigning as Assistant Superintendent of the Indian Police in Burma. You can see the commemorative blue plaque bearing his name. Thanks to the faithful residents who have prevented an invasion of high street chains, Portobello Road has remained more or less as it always was. From its fruit and veg stalls during the week to the antique and shopping stalls on the weekend, it is a constant hub of activity, kept alive by the authentic characters who reside in it. As the song goes, from “rare alabaster and genuine plaster” to “a new Botticelli” or even “Napoleon’s pistols”, you can truly find everything you want on Portobello Road.
SPOTLIGHT
CULTURE SHOCK:
The MeMBeR’S CLUB Electric Cinema 191 Portobello Road W11 2eD 020 7908 9696 www.electriccinema.co.uk
THE GINSTITUTE:
FoR The SeAFAReR Portobello Star 171 Portobello Road W11 2DY 020 7229 8016 www.portobellostarbar.co.uk
LITTLE TREASURE:
AnTiqUe SToRe Kleanthous Antiques 144 Portobello Road W11 2DZ 020 7727 3649 www.kleanthous.com
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local Profile
Yotam Ottolenghi ottolenghi’s colourful Kensington delis have been serving delicious gourmet food for more than ten years; REBECCA WALLERSTEINER attempts to recreate some of the middle-eastern recipes in ottolenghi’s new cookbook Jerusalem
Photography: Nomi Abeliovich
When my revieW copy of Jerusalem, local chefs yotam ottolenghi and Sami Tamimi’s new cookbook, arrived, perusing the gorgeous images and descriptions of the middle eastern food made me so hungry that i immediately set off for my nearest ottolenghi to buy succulent aubergines with goat’s cheese, hummus, freshly baked bread, pomegranate salad and macadamia nut fudge. readers – my guilty secret is out! on many nights, my kitchen remains pristine (as i am far too lazy to cook) and since yotam and Sami opened a shop nearby, my chances of one day winning MasterChef have slipped even further. even though ottolenghi’s delis in notting hill and Kensington are always packed, the friendly staff allow customers to taste and buy small amounts of the excellent, if rather pricey, delicacies. When i interview yotam, he is immediately warm and thrilled to hear that his food is so appreciated. his waistline, surprisingly slim for a chef’s, is testimony to the healthiness of his diet. yotam’s links to the borough go back a long way: “i have lived and worked in Kensington for much of my culinary career,” he tells me. At the age of 30, in 1998, yotam moved to London from israel, abandoning his earlier career as an academic and journalist because he dreamt of becoming a chef. he first worked as assistant pastry chef at the capital restaurant in Knightsbridge, then moved to become pastry chef for
the Kensington place group. From there yotam was promoted to head pastry chef at Baker and Spice in chelsea and in 2002 he established his own business, the ottolenghi shop, on the Ledbury road with his business partner, Sami. Though yotam and Sami had both grown up in Jerusalem, they only met and became friends after arriving in London, when they discovered that as well as sharing a common language, they also shared a love of food. Although born in the same city they had inherited different cooking traditions, as yotam is Jewish and Sami is palestinian. now, drawing on this eclectic, rich heritage, they fuse traditional Arab and Jewish cooking with mediterranean and north African influences. “our kitchens beneath the ottolenghi shops prepare fresh food daily using only the finest raw ingredients, very fresh spices and herbs,” explains yotam. Given the excellent quality of their wares and the popularity of their shops, it is hardly surprising that they have recently expanded the franchise by opening nopi, a middle-eastern Brasserie, in Soho. The pair teamed up with BBc4 to make Jerusalem on a Plate, a documentary exploring middle-eastern cookery, and their cookbook is a spin-off of this. “its 120 recipes give a global twist to middle-eastern cookery classics, incorporating culinary influences from our home city’s diverse communities,” says yotam. if you’re feeling lacklustre, making the spicy beetroot, leek and walnut salad will help to boost your energy levels. To impress your valentine you can’t go wrong if you follow Jerusalem’s uncomplicated recipe for salmon steaks in chraimeh sauce with sweet paprika, chilli and cinnamon, which is exotic, light and quick to prepare. or choose the book’s African influenced recipe for pan-fried seabream with harissa, served with dried rose petals, certain to enchant. i ask yotam which foods he likes best and he doesn’t hesitate: “This would have to be my italian grandmother’s tasty semolina gnocchi, which is still unrivalled. But if you wish me to pick my favourite recipe in the book, then i would choose our roasted sweet
LOCAL PROFILE
potato with fresh figs salad recipe that encapsulates all the myriad flavours of Jerusalem – but is also very modern.” Jersusalem contains many tasty recipes suitable for vegetarians; for example, Levantine burnt aubergine with garlic, lemon and pomegranate seeds, Georgian spicy beetroot, leek and walnut salad, and raw artichoke and herb salad. “We like to experiment with strong and bold flavours, with lots of sour and sweet and with mixing different ingredients,” says Yotam. Does he realise that he is responsible for the Renaissance of the pomegranate? “The wonderful crunchy texture and sweet and sour flavour of pomegranates, frequently used in Israeli and Palestinian foods, add a refreshing element to every dish. I love the explosion of juice when you bite into pomegranate seeds,” he enthuses. How does the borough compare with Jerusalem? “Like Jerusalem, London is a vibrant and dynamic place. Countless immigrants have turned it into the gourmet capital of the world,” says Yotam. “I love Notting Hill, which has such a great choice of wonderful shops; Melt, a few doors down from the Ledbury Road Ottolenghi, sells excellent hand-made luxury chocolates and I can’t pass their window without wanting to go in. For dining out we enjoy the rustic ambience and delicious wood-fired pizzas upstairs at The Oak,” he adds. Another of his favourite restaurants is 202 Westbourne Grove, which serves excellent bistro food, and also Tom Conran’s Irish gastropub, The Cow, on Westbourne Park Road. He likes to buy his stylish but understated clothes at J.W. Beeton, a cutting-edge boutique, also on the Ledbury Road. “Food is a basic, sensual pleasure for all and we hope that enjoying our Middle Eastern cuisine will help to bring people together. We would like to encourage people to embrace and experiment with exotic and bold flavours and to create their own Middle-Eastern feast.” Let’s do it. Ottolenghi, 63 Ledbury Road, W11 / 1 Holland Street, W8 www.ottolenghi.co.uk
‘Jerusalem’ by Yotam Ottolenghi and Sami Tamimi Ebury Press, 2012 (£27)
Photography (above): Jonathan Lovekin
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Antiques &
AR T Carol Cordrey finds works of art both old and new to inspire and enrich our lives
Art and Science Attract Art and science generally occupy separate poles so most people would not expect a major art exhibition to be held in the Science Museum. Happily, this is the fourth year that the Works on Paper Fair is proving the venue to be ideal for its wonderfully varied exhibition of drawings and watercolours that spans just about every subject on the planet. Contemporary work, such as Rosie Sanders’ exquisite Iris with its delicately controlled tonal work and lighting, will contrast with dramatic interior scenes by talented Alison Pullen whose broad brushwork manages to create a very intimate portrayal of the State Room at the Royal Hospital Chelsea. Past luminaries featured at the Fair include: Sir Kyffin Williams who defined Welsh 20th century landscape painting; John Piper, a World War Two artist renowned for his haunting architectural paintings; Paul Cézanne, the ‘father of modern art’; and the recently departed and much admired Mary Fedden OBE whose vibrant landscapes always attract collectors. For the scientifically inclined, the Science Museum is loaning captivating artworks documenting the history of flight and, for music lovers, a rare 1965 drawing of the Rolling Stones is waiting to be snapped up. Works on Paper Fair 31 January – 3 February www.worksonpaperfair.com
Royal Hospital Chelsea, State Room by Alison Pullen
Q&A with Jill Berelowitz about her current sculpture exhibition in Kensington Q: Was sport the main inspiration for this new group of sculptures? A: I’m inspired by movement and these new pieces do overlap with athletic movement as I was commissioned to create a Diving Girl for our Olympic Village.
Q: Some of your human figures have attenuated forms in the manner of the late Giacometti; did he influence your work? A: My figures are inspired by nature, organic shapes and movement but not by Giacometti.
Q: Did your Olympic Village and Heathrow Terminal 5 exhibitions lead to international interest in your work?
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Spirit by Jill Berelowitz
A: Yes, international enquiries and new sales and commissions have been generated by those exhibitions and also by my giant spinal sculpture displayed in Cavendish Square, part of Westminster City Council’s festival City of Sculpture.
Q: What future plans do you have in mind for your sculpture? A: The themes of the cycle of life and regeneration are evolving in my new sculpture and commissions, and I am working with interesting, varied media that include crystal, resin, bronze and stainless steel. Jill Berelowitz, until end of February www.sdgallery.co.uk
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Art &
A uctions Carol Cordrey recommends local exhibitions worth attending and auctions with prize lots on offer
no Better time for the Alps It’s the season for heading to the Alps for some healthy winter sport or walking and, if you want a painting to remind you of the wonderful scenery you enjoyed there, waste no time in heading straight to James Hart’s British Art gallery in Chelsea. Evocative scenes of snow-filled skies, mountains and lovely lakes by the late Edward Holroyd Pearce will fill its walls and transport you to areas of Switzerland, Italy and France where you enjoyed nature at its best. For Pearce, too, the mountains were an uplifting experience for mind and body and they served him well during his trips to paint en plein air, good examples of that being the particularly accomplished Rhapsody in Blue, Italy; Weisshorn from Crans; The Eiger and Münch from Mürren. Later, during his convalescence from TB, we should consider ourselves lucky that he was cared for in a sanatorium that provided him with yet more inspirational views of magnificent mountain ranges. Mountain Splendour – Alpine Views Until the end of February; www.jhba.co.uk
Edward Holroyd Pearce
Affordable Picassos
Polar Bear in chelsea The polar bear that appeared opposite Peter Jones in January is the latest piece of wildlife work by professional sculptor Adam Binder whose inspiration for sculpting the natural world, and endangered species in particular, developed from a childhood visit to Africa and his upbringing on a Cotswolds farm. This polar bear is both beautiful and monumental, made from white patinated bronze and standing on hefty hind legs to a height of three metres. Binder has given the sculpture a pensive expression which invites numerous interpretations, particularly those associated with the environment, so in every way the polar bear is set to become a huge attraction for adults and children. Binder was the overall winner in 2010 of the annual international Wildlife Artist of the Year competition (for which I am one of the judges), founded by legendary wildlife artist and conservationist David Shepherd CBE. This sculptor has received well-deserved fame for sculptures reduced to their essential details yet packed with expression and brilliantly observed characteristics. The bear’s sojourn will last about three weeks, unless the public loves him so much that he becomes a regular attraction for visitors to Sloane Square. Anyone wanting to secure his long-term residency should email me Polar Bear, 14 January – 9 February for support: carol@artalone.com. www.adambindersculptures.com
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Christie’s Impressionist and Modern Art sale will include around 250 lots and with estimates starting at £600, this is an ideal chance to start an art collection at reasonable cost. Excitingly, the sale will include 50 lots of ceramics by the great, late Pablo Picasso, an art form he devoted much time to after WW2. Impressionist / Modern Art Auction 8 February (viewing 2-7 February) Christie’s, 85 Old Brompton Road South Kensington, SW7 3LD www.christies.com
Otto Freundlich (1878-1943) Executed in 1936 Estimate: £15,000-20,000 (C) Christie’s Images Ltd 2012
Love is in the Air Item: Heart Balloon, one of a range of neon sculptures, is perfect for an unusual, practical Valentine’s Day gift Artist: Electric Stripes Date: 28 January Location: Themes & Variations, 231 Westbourne Grove, Notting Hill, W11 2SE www.themesandvariations.com
Heart Balloon by Electric Stripes
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New Zinc showroom now open 1 Chelsea Wharf, 15 Lots Road, London SW10 0QJ
0679_Zinc Kensington & Chelsea Ad_Apr12_AW.indd 1
09/03/2012 16:51
Drawing Dreams Writing and illustrating books for children is a skill that many attempt and few perfect. Gemma Taylor meets the authors who have found inspiration from living in the borough
FEATURE
ThE NEwcomER T
Eva Katzler Eva has lived near Portobello Road for nearly nine years and often works in Caffé Respirio on Kensington Park Road because it’s run by “smiley people”. “I knew the illustrations were right for Florentine and Pig when I whooped. Illustrator Jess Mikhail and I had been pinging different versions of Pig back and forth over email for some weeks and we both knew when she’d nailed him. I adore Pig and had been writing him for months, so to meet him properly was very exciting. “I live just off Portobello and I couldn’t wish for a more colourful and inspiring spot. Everyday I’m blasted with amazing smells, music, characters and peculiarities which send my imagination off into a frenzy. Anything goes and I love it and that’s how I want children to feel about a trip to the bookshop.”
NATioNAl TREAsURE
Shirley Hughes Hughes moved to the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea in 1954 where she started the charming series that is now a household name, Alfie. “Chelsea was quite a rough area and now I live among millionaires. In the book, Alfie lives in a terraced house in an ordinary street and wasn’t meant to be very well off, but now Alfie has remained the same and his surroundings have become somewhat less accessible to the everyday reader. “Alfie is not my real child or my grandchild or a friend’s child; he is many children. I have kept sketchbooks all my life as I was trained to do as an art student. I don’t use a camera, but observe children from life. You may often see me in Holland Park, drawing in play areas and observing the way they move, if they’re concerned, worried, confused, and recording when they suddenly jump for joy. It’s important to capture these kinds of movements, as you are drawing a narrative, not a series of still paintings. “In this digital age, if any books are going to survive, it’s going to be the picture book. Children will always want to come home and turn a page, poring over them for hours. It’s this which teaches young people how to look. If a child can really learn to look at his or her own pace, not at that of the telly or the Internet, then that’s a pleasure they have for life. In art galleries you see some people who are looking and some who are not.”
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3d tales
Su Blackwell After studying a Masters in Textiles at the Royal College of Art in Kensington, Blackwell started illustrating books using a 3D technique. “Using glue, paper and a knife, I cut the pages of story books to create new meanings from the narrative. I love fairy tales and never tire of exploring their multi-faceted layers. My new work explores the psychoanalytical aspects. The idea came from finding non-art objects around the house and transforming them to give them another purpose. “I like working in the borough because peaceful walks by the river and in Hyde Park give me a lot of head space to think. The fact that J.M. Barrie was inspired to create the story of Peter Pan in Kensington Palace Gardens interests me. “I watched a documentary that predicted books would become obsolete and the event of the Kindle worries me, but I refuse to believe that. In a way, what I am doing is paying homage to the book.”
lOCal adVeNtURes es
Ilona Rodgers After leaving communist Russia, Ilona moved to Ladbroke Grove, on the corner of Blenheim Crescent, where she has been writing children’s books for 15 years. “In communist Russia you had to order anything nice from France, so writing stories was an economic necessity. Musgrove, the gentle hairy big brown rat endowed like Charlie Chaplin with big shoes and a cane, is based on my husband, who was perplexed by having baby daughters. A very adorable character, he didn’t have a clue but his kindness and gentleness won over in the end. “I believe in mythologising my children’s surroundings, like Peter Pan, Winnie the Pooh and Mary Poppins, where the story had an address. Setting it at 1 Kensington Gardens makes it feel like it could be true. One story sees Musgrove in Kensington Gardens making a swing out of his scarf because the queue is too long. Children love it because they know it and can say, ‘I’ve climbed there’. “Children should feel that magical things are happening around them, that you don’t have to travel to Scotland to see fairies, and the Loch Ness Monster could be in the drain beneath you. The children like the gossipy intimacy of the books.”
FEATURE
EXPERT OPINION
Adam Douglas As senior specialist in early literature at rare books expert Peter Harrington, Douglas has noticed that trends in children’s literature haven’t changed as much as superficially appears. “There is a constant tension between the adult intention to offer children didactic literature aimed at their moral improvement and children’s desire for entertainment. The most successful stories in any era do both. J. K. Rowling’s hostility towards bullies and bad teachers in Harry Potter (below right) is as moral as Charles Kingsley’s Water Babies, which sets out in allegorical form author Reverend Kingsley’s high-minded Christian socialism. “Another narrative trend is the unfairness of being born in difficult circumstances, often expressed by the hero/heroine being an orphan, as seen in Tracy Beaker by Jacqueline Wilson (above right). Children’s literature repeatedly shows the frightening aspect of childhood, in which children are cast out into an unfeeling world with only their wits to keep them safe. In the forest in Grimm’s Fairy Tales, children are abandoned and in the The Hunger Games they are forced to compete in a televised battle to the death. “Since the very earliest children’s books, publishers have used the full range of illustration from simple line drawings to express the innocence of childhood, to lavish coloured illustrations as rich as any Hollywood cinematic vista. For every Arthur Rackham, there has always been a Quentin Blake sketching in an apparently slapdash style to capture the movement and vivacity of children and their imagination.”
Clockwise from top / Jacqueline Wilson, “Between the Lines”: Original A3 illustrated manuscript of a Tracy Beaker short story written for the charity Book Aid International and signed by the author (2006), £1,500. “Hogwarts School”: Original artwork for the rear cover of “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets” by J.K. Rowling (1997), illustrated by Cliff Wright, £25,000. “Peter Pan in Kensington Gardens”: First edition by Arthur Rackham. London (1906), £900.
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Exhibition Spotlight: prints of st. ives school The combination of iconic artists and affordable prints at this Bonhams auction will provide a winter wonderland for art lovers, says CAROL CORDREY LighTen The gLoom of winter by immersing yourself in prints by luminaries such as the late henri matisse, Dame Barbara hepworth, Patrick heron and Sir Terry Frost RA. matisse barely needs any introduction but the other three artists are identified with the St. ives School, a colony of artists which from the late 1930s developed an international reputation for avant-garde art, notably abstraction. And in case you’re wondering whether all that has been consigned to the history books, remember that as recently as 1993 Tate established one of its outposts in St. ives at great expense and because of the global importance of that artistic colony. its significance grew as the St. ives School became a magnet for talented artists, inspired by the magical light and the spacious, captivating landscapes and seascapes of that Cornish, coastal region. homes and studios were also far cheaper there than in London and they provided safe havens and materials for artists when the war years forced them outside the bomb-blasted capital and made access to artistic materials very difficult. Barbara hepworth (1903-75) was a Yorkshire sculptor and one of henry moore’s contemporaries at Leeds College of Art, followed by the Royal College of Art. Ben nicholson, the acclaimed painter, became her second husband and at the outbreak of WW2 they moved to St. ives where both became key figures in the development of British abstract art. hepworth’s work was distinguished for its elegant simplicity and craftsmanship and often featured holes to focus attention on the interior and exterior parts of sculpture, sometimes laced with string to highlight the relationship between the two. She also drew extensively and this auction presents one of her lithographs, Squares and Circles, that references her interest in geometric forms. her home studio and garden are now a major tourist attraction for Tate St. ives. Also from Yorkshire, Patrick heron CBe worked as a painter in Cornwall from 1925-30, returning in 1956. its vast natural environment and glistening light
inspired him to employ a vivid palette and fascinating juxtaposition of colours and forms that interacted, forming powerful, optical sensations within his work. Braque, who invented Cubism along with Picasso, rebelled against the traditional way of representing space on a two dimensional picture plane and this had a strong influence on heron’s early leanings towards abstraction. By the 1970s his paintings presented more organic shapes and in 1993 he designed a stained glass window for Tate St. ives. one of the leading St. ives painters, Sir Terry Frost RA, turned to abstraction in the 1940s. The common sights of glowing suns, boats and human figures around the Cornish coast were interpreted by him into colourful but very simplified shapes such as lines, circles, crescents, segments and ovals that seemed to move on the canvas and engage with each other as the original forms did in real life. These characteristics developed into Frost’s highly unusual, signature style that appears just as contemporary today as it did when his works were first created. From 1916, henri matisse also moved south but to spend his winters on the French coast where the strong sun and gleaming colours fed his huge, creative talent. From his early days as an artist he was noted for his sensitivity of line and expressive, emotive use of a bold palette which led to him being identified as the leading exponent of Fauvism, meaning the wild use of colour. Still lifes, interiors, stained glass windows, paper cutouts, stage sets for Diaghilev and book illustration were among matisse’s vast oeuvre that encapsulated his love of colour and pared down forms. Those features inspired generations of artists and they are typified by the pochoir, or stencil, L’avaleur de Sabres, in this auction. Prints featuring the St. Ives School, 20 February Bonhams, Montpelier Street, South Kensington, SW7 1HH www.bonhams.com
Opposite, clockwise from top / Henri Matisse (French, 1869-1954), L’avaleur de Sabres, Plate 8 from “Jazz” (Duthuit Livres 22), Pochoir printed in colours, 1947, on Arches, from an edition of 100, published by Tériade, Paris, 390 x 300mm (15 3/8 x 11 6/8in) (unframed), £5,000-7,000 Sir Terry Frost R.A. (British, 1915-2003), Orange Sun Newlyn (Kemp 206), Screenprint in colours, 2000, on Arches, signed in pencil, a proof aside from the numbered edition of 100, printed by Coriander Studios, London, with full margins, 640 x 505mm (25 x 20in) (unframed), £500-700 Patrick Heron (British, 1920-1999), Plate 11, from January 1973, Screenprint in colours, 1973, signed, dated and inscribed ‘Artist’s Proof’ in pencil, an artist’s proof aside from the numbered edition of 72, 645 x 887mm (25 1/2 x 35in), £2,000-3,000
ART
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RUN WILDbracelet london_UK 13/04/12 09.37 Pagina 1
Buccellati White Gold Bracelet with Violet Jade Centre Stone From the Buccellati Unique Cuff Bracelet Collection
33 Albemarle Street - Mayfair, London WIS 4BP - Tel. 020 7629 5616 MILANO, VENEZIA, FIRENZE, CALA DI VOLPE, CAPRI, PARIS, MONTE CARLO, LONDON, MOSCOW, NEW YORK, CHICAGO, ASPEN, BEVERLY HILLS, TOKYO, OSAKA, HONG KONG, SIDNEY WWW.BUCCELLATI.COM
Travel safe:
TheUltimate Guardian it’s a multi-walled, high-security cylinder capable of destroying drills, saws and anything else set against it; RICHARD BROWN introduces Döttling’s first travel safe
This company firsT came to our attention in 2010 when it helped Karl Lagerfeld to design a watch and jewellery trunk. now, munich-based safe-maker Döttling has impressed us once again with another unique way of keeping your valuables secure. capable of housing, and protecting, six watches, in addition to jewellery, cash and important documents, the Guardian employs materials usually used to make bullet-proof vests and anti-riot shields to provide the ultimate travel safe. stab it, smash it, burn it or blow it up; a hard-as-a-diamond carbide component means that the Guardian will make mincemeat of saws, drills, power-tools and even sledgehammers. in short, the
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Guardian can only be illicitly opened by a code breaker with a lot of time on their hands – but this is time they won’t have, as the travel case is equipped with a Gps tracking device, meaning it can be located anywhere in the world. Tailor the cylindrical safe to your taste by having its handle brackets engraved or by customising the variation of fabric and leather on its cover. at 35 centimetres in length and 13.5 in diametre, the Guardian is small enough to fit in your suitcase but personally, we don’t know why you’d want to hide it. prices start from £7,900. www.doettling.com
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CONTESSA To own a rare Argyle pink diamond is to own a truly magnificent heirloom. Contessa, beautifully handcrafted in Platinum and 18ct Rose Gold, features an exquisite combination of stunning craftsmanship and the rarest of Australian Argyle pink diamonds. Simply, they are the rarest diamonds in the world and are revered for their unique provenance and intrinsic beauty.
UNITED KINGDOM The Royal Arcade, Old Bond St, Mayfair London W1S 4SW AUSTRALIA Sydney Gold Coast calleija.com
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COLLECTION
Jewellery
BOX Jewels, gems, pearls and diamonds; the essential components of any lady’s jewellery collection
Cupid’s Arrow Creative genius Paul Flato was based in New York from the 1920s to the early 1940s and is widely credited as the first celebrity jeweller, his long list of Hollywood clients including stars of the silver screen Greta Garbo, Rita Hayworth, Marlene Dietrich and Katharine Hepburn. Flato is celebrated for his often flamboyant designs and Art Deco jewellery and this ruby and diamond bow and arrow brooch, attributable to the designer, showcases his ostentatiously playful style. The piece, along with several other exceptional designs by Flato, is available at London jeweller Lucas Rarities, which specialises in rare pieces of period jewellery and objets d’art. www.lucasrarities.com
CuTTing EdgE Cu CuT
Roses Are Red...
French jewellery house Cartier’s latest creations nostalgically look back to past designs and influences. Following WW2, flowers (particularly orchids) bloomed bright and bold in the form of semi-precious colourful stones and the Caresse Pink Orchid ring, part of the Naturellement collection, speaks to classic design while offering a modern edge. Other heritage icons include parrots, love birds and the Cartier Panthère. www.cartier.com
My Valentine Joubi has collaborated with Kabiri to create two exclusive pieces. The first uses the signature Joubi Geometric ring as its setting but reinvented, in 18-karat rose gold with pavé pink sapphires. For something more outrageous, the jeweller has designed a Croc ring, a crocodile design conceived of 15 carats of pink sapphires in an 18-karat rose gold setting.
Luxury jewellery company Maxim Voznesensky recently opened its first London boutique and the Elements collection has been inspired by the four basic principles of Earth, Water, Air and Fire
Geometric ring, £4,000 Joubi, available at www.kabiri.co.uk
For the Love of… The Fire pieces are just one part of Maxim Voznesensky’s Elements collection. Featuring bright red rubies, scorching yellow diamonds and blackened gold, the designer vividly captures the element’s characteristics
Say ‘I love you’ differently this year. To coincide with its launch at Harrods, Amedeo is offering an exclusive service whereby customers can create a bespoke portrait cameo. Go in with a photograph of a loved family member or even a pet and Amedeo can create the perfect likeness. The main collection in store includes key motifs of crowns, panthers, snakes and skulls. Amedeo Available at Harrods
Fire pendant with rubies, diamonds and yellow and blackened gold, POA From the Elements collection, www.maximvoznesensky.com
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www.bachet.fr
COLLECTION
Famous
LasT WOrds
As we approach one of the most romantic days of the year, Olivia Sharpe explores the top engagement ring services across London for those of you looking to pop the question this February
Above / De Beers
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COLLECTION
For centuries, men have agonised over the ‘right’ way to propose when, really, this is the easy bit. While there are a million and one different ways to ask, from the clichéd rose petals scattered around the house to sky-writing the words ‘Will you marry me?’, there is one thing which unites them all together and that is the giving of the ring. And this is where men can really fall into some strife. Having a bad proposal, albeit traumatic, can be forgotten, but a bad ring is something your future wife has to live with for the rest of her life. As Kim cattrall’s straight-talking character puts it in Sex and the City, “wrong ring, wrong guy”. Knowing which ring will suit your bride-to-be best is the crucial test as to whether you truly know her: the Four c’s – cut, clarity, carat and colour – should all reflect her personality, and therefore be completely unique. Although the choices may appear dauntingly endless, there is the right ring out there for everyone; you just have to know where to look.
“Wrong ring, wrong guy” Kim Cattrall, Sex and the City
Harry Winston
Harry Winston has earned his stripes over the years as the King of Diamonds. With the legendary Hope diamond, a magnificent fancy blue gem weighing in at an impressive 45.52 carats, being the company’s most coveted treasure, the woman who is true to Harry Winston isn’t afraid to express herself and be powerful while remaining feminine at all times. carrying everything from round brilliant-cut, square emerald-cut, emerald-cut, cushion-cut, radiantcut, oval, pear, marquise and heart-shaped diamonds, the company knows that we all have our own idea of what constitutes the perfect ring. rings can therefore be tailor-made to the individual to ensure each strong personality shines through. And you can be sure that there is no sparkle quite like a Harry Winston diamond, as each goes through a strict vetting process by an expert team of gemologists which evaluates them according to the Four c characteristics to guarantee
they pass muster on both beauty and brilliance. At Harry Winston, only stones and not corners are cut, as quality, and not quantity, holds forth. Harry Winston 171 New Bond Street 020 7907 8800 www.harrywinston.com
De Beers
Harry Winston may be known as the King of Diamonds but if this is the case, De Beers remains the supreme ruler, dominating the diamond industry. the romantic Adonis rose ring, set in either pink gold or platinum, harkens back to the time of the Ancient Greeks, a civilisation to whom we owe the tradition of the engagement ring being placed on the fourth finger of the left hand (they believed that it contained a vein that led straight to the heart). the Promise ring, with white diamonds and set in pink gold, is the perfect symbol of your love and makes the same promise as you do when proposing of remaining eternally loyal to the wearer. in line with the current tradition of the solitaire diamond, you could opt for the elegant, timeless Aura cushion cut platinum ring. Also unique to the jeweller is the De Beers iris; housed in each store, it provides clients with an objective way of seeing the beauty of their diamond through the eyes of an expert. the De Beers woman is strong and independent while at the same time loyal and traditional; investing in both the girl and the ring is worth every penny. De Beers, 50 Old Bond Street 020 7758 9700; www.debeers.co.uk
Left column/ De Beers Right column/ Harry Winston
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Chaumet
A Chaumet ring is destined for the princess. The company’s origin dates as far back as 1780 when Chaumet’s founder, Marie-Etienne Nitot, was the official jeweller to the Emperor of France, Napoleon Bonaparte. During the Romantic period, Nitot’s successors were inspired by the decorative arts of 17th century France and this was shown in their jewellery designs. By 1880, Joseph Chaumet was establishing himself as the master of the Belle Epoque, attracting a predominantly royal and aristocratic clientele. Consequently, aigrettes, tiaras and other such social status symbols became a large part of the house’s sales, producing more than 1,500 different models of tiaras. By the early 19th century, Indian princes were hearing of Chaumet’s genius, leading to a pair of pear-cut diamonds being purchased by the firm for the Maharaja of Indore. Today, the luxury French jeweller prides itself on maintaining its strong sense of heritage. The Bee my Love engagement ring, exclusive to the house, hums back to the regal emblems of the Napoleonic Empire, while the Josephine recalls its long-standing tiara tradition. With more than 200 years of history in jewellery, your love story will have already begun before you place the ring on her finger. Chaumet, 174 Bond Street www.chaumet.com
Tiffany & Co.
If you happen to pass a Tiffany store in the run up to Valentine’s Day, it would not be an unusual sight to see men queuing outside, all on the hunt for the same treasure: the precious little blue box. The timeless design of the Tiffany setting makes the perfect backdrop for either the Lucida, a square mixed-cut diamond with a
step-cut crown and a brilliant-cut pavilion, the Tiffany Legacy, which captures the elegance and romance of the Edwardian era with its patented cushion-cut centre stone and bezel-set diamonds, or the Tiffany Novo, which shows how the jewellery house is always looking to innovate with its customised mounting of four sleek, tapered prongs and aligned facets. A recent addition to the repertoire is the Tiffany Soleste; launched in 2011, it features a cushion-cut diamond centre surrounded by a double row of round brilliant accent diamonds, all set in a platinum diamond band. Well aware of the hectic lifestyles of the majority of its clients, the company recently introduced an iPhone Ring Finder app, enabling its predominantly male customers to view ring styles on an on-screen hand model if they can’t make it to the store. The hand’s movement showcases the rings from different angles, highlighting the stones’ cuts and designs. Never going out of style, a Tiffany ring is something that can be passed down from generation to generation. Tiffany & Co., 145 Sloane Street 020 7409 2790; www.tiffany.co.uk
Grays
For the vintage girl, Grays, home to the largest and most wide-ranging collection of antique and period jewellery, is your best port of call. Television programmes such as Downton Abbey and Upstairs, Downstairs have, of late, popularised the glamour of the early 20th century, resulting in older engagement rings which have recently come back into fashion. LAPADA member Anthea who runs AG Antiques (one of the stands at Grays) explains their increasing trend in contemporary society: “People love the uniqueness of an old ring. Antique and vintage rings are generally one-off designs and it would be almost impossible to see anyone else with the same ring. So many people want the older rings; the increase in popularity has definitely been noticeable.” Not only are people endorsing the better quality of workmanship that you often find with vintage rings but also the better value for money. Antique dealers sell on the margin scheme, which means that they only pay VAT on the profit rather
From top / Hirsh London, Chaumet, Tiffany & Co.
COLLECTION
than the whole lump sum, resulting in prices ending up cheaper than most modern counterparts. Popular vintage style rings currently include Art Deco and Edwardian, as well as triple cluster and diamond solitaire rings. When buying your antique engagement ring, make sure to get helpful advice from the dealer (that’s what they’re there for) and do not forget to get an insurance valuation. Grays Antiques, 1-7 Davies Mews / 58 Davies St 020 7629 7034; www.graysantiques.com
Hirsh London
Championing the philosophy that “every piece is a work of art”, British jewellery brand Hirsh has certainly lived up to this mantra through its bespoke engagement ring service. Manager Ben Stevenson believes that it stands out from its competitors by offering a truly individual service, handmaking all of its jewellery in the company’s workshops. It is also committed to bringing the best in the following five elements: design, quality, service, expertise and value. Stocking a selection of staple styles, including Bridge, Cinq, Papillon, Regal, Trio, Solitaire and Artemis, you will begin the design process by looking at these “shoulder designs” with one of the in-store experts and seeing which you prefer. Although there to make sure your every wish is granted, clients will always be steered towards the practical if they start to contemplate wacky
design ideas as, while Hirsh would never sell you a ring that you were not happy with, nine times out of ten it is the classic and simple designs that women want. Jeweller of choice for both the City boy and members of royalty, Hirsh can cater to everyone. Hirsh London, 56-57 Burlington Arcade 020 7499 6814; www.hirshlondon.com While it may still seem as though there are infinite possibilities available to you when choosing an engagement ring, at least you know that help is always close at hand. You may think that it is the act of proposing that clinches the deal, but remember that this is something that will naturally alter and become embellished over time, whereas the ring will forever remain the same, as much a part of her personality as a piece of jewellery.
From top / Grays, Hirsh London
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We prefer not to be measured by dimensions. Unless it’s a new dimension of accuracy.
No fewer than four exceptional mechanisms enhance the precision of the RICHARD LANGE TOURBILLON “Pour le Mérite”: the tiny fusée-and-chain transmission, the delicate tourbillon, the ultra-thin Lange balance spring, and – not least – the patented stop-seconds device for the tourbillon which makes it possible to
set the watch with one-second accuracy in the first place. Never before has an A. Lange & Söhne watch been endowed with so many complications that simultaneously enhance its rate accuracy, settability, and readability. And so, this remarkable timepiece truly deserves the honorary attribute “Pour le Mérite”.
Arije 165, Sloane Street London • George Pragnell 5 and 6, Wood Street, Stratford-upon-Avon Hamilton & Inches 87, George Street, Edinburgh • Harrods 87–135 Brompton Road, Knightsbridge, London Watches of Switzerland 16, New Bond Street, London • Wempe 43-44, New Bond Street, London Lange Uhren GmbH • Tel. +34 91 454 89 82 • www.lange-soehne.com
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World of
watches For treasured timepieces, horological heirlooms and modern masterpieces, watch this space...
Lange’s enlightenment
as If By Magic
A. Lange & Söhne unveiled the latest incarnation of its iconic Lange 1 timepiece at the end of last year and the Kensington & Chelsea Magazine joined Lange CEO, Wilhelm Schmid, and 89-year-old company founder, Walter Lange, in Dresden for the launch. With a dial of semi-transparent sapphire crystal parts, the Grand Lange 1 Lumen reveals the ‘secret’ mechanism behind Lange’s famous outsized datedisplay for the very first time. The best looking watch we’ve seen in a while, the Lumen comes with a 40.9 millimetre platinum case and a 72 hour power reserve. Expect this timepiece, limited to 200 pieces, to cost close to the £50,000 mark.
When winter came, so the story goes, and the Swiss farmer-watchmakers left the fields for their workbenches, it was the delicate perfection of snowflakes from which they drew inspiration. In an example of reality mirroring legend, this Corum creation has a similar magic. Suspended at the centre of its case by a sapphire mainplate at its base, the flying tourbillion within the Golden Bridge Tourbillon Panoramique appears to levitate. Delivered with two crocodile leather straps (black and brown) only 20 pieces have been made, at £142,000 each.
www.alange-soehne.com www.corum.ch
Return to Refinement
One tO watch Each month we select our timepiece of the moment from the watch world’s most exciting pieces
aesthetically, Patek Philippe’s 18-karat rose gold 5123r features the characteristic purity that defines the brand. Mechanically, the watch’s caliber 215 Ps movement highlights the company’s dedication to innovation
Love or hate them, if you’re a true watch geek you can’t help but marvel at the mastery of Franck Muller’s inventions. It may not have as many complications as Muller’s other timepieces (the Aeternitas Mega 4 has 36) but Muller’s new 7-Days Power Reserve is surely one of the brand’s most elegant-looking. Part of the Franck Muller Vintage collection, the watch comprises 213 components made entirely in-house and 27 rubies in its movement alone. Well, this is Franck Muller, after all. www.franckmuller.com
5123r, £18,060, Patek Philippe www.patek.com
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COlleCtION
1
3
2
11
Blue
4
steel
10
Strike a pose and embrace the colour of the deep sea and clear sky this season
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7
9
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8
1 Slim knitted silk tie, £105, Charvet, www.mrporter.com 2 Moon Machine, from a selection, MB&F, www.mbandf.com 3 Capeland 10065, £2,940, Baume et Mercier, www.thewatchgallery.co.uk 4 Crocodile card holder, £150, Santiago Gonzalez, www.mrporter.com 5 18-karat white gold cufflinks, from a selection, Breguet, www.breguet.com 6 Grained leather black poker set, £575, Thomas Lyte, www.thomaslyte.com 7 Paisley-patterned silk-twill bow tie, £95, Drake’s, www.drakes-london.com 8 Skull enamelled metal cufflinks, £125, Paul Smith, 120 Kensington Park Road 9 Albemarle executive bag, £495, Thomas Lyte, as before 10 Woven wax-cotton belt, £280, Loro Piana, 47-48 Sloane Street 11 Opus 12, from a selection, Harry Winston, www.harrywinston.com 062
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As Time Goes By:
By Royal Appointment as the duchess of Cambridge continues to set trends, the Fashion and textile Museum is examining both the history and influence of British royal couture on 20th century fashion
Be sartorially inspired at the Hartnell to Amies: Couture by Royal Appointment exhibition, which features some timeless examples of British royal couture. Visitors can find out how Her Majesty’s revolutionary designers, including norman Hartnell, Hardy amies and Frederick Fox, helped to establish london’s thriving fashion scene after the second World War. some designers, including amies and Fox, are discussed in more detail; discover, for example, that menswear designer amies launched the first ever recorded menswear catwalk in 1959 and enjoy some of Fox’s work, known for having designed a range of hats for the Queen. the exhibition begins by telling the story of norman
Hartnell’s successful career and British high society’s ‘Bright young things’. Hartnell is famously known for designing the Queen’s wedding dress in 1947 as well as her Coronation dress in 1953. as highlighted by the royal Wedding, we still remain fascinated by what the royal Family choose to don on special occasions and as such the display celebrates the huge impact that British royalty has had on 20th century fashion. overall, the exhibition is truly inspiring for any fashion fanatic or those who just want to learn more about the royal Family. Until 23 February 2013; www.ftmlondon.org
Norman Hartnell in studio with models, British Vogue, March 1953 © Norman Parkinson Limited/Courtesy Norman Parkinson Archive
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London Fashion Week A/W13: The Line-Up
Julien Macdonald S/S13
Scarcely had the S/S13 London Fashion Week ended (so it seems) and the announcement of the new season was heralded. Yes, the A/W13 London Fashion Week is soon to be upon us and looks one of the most thrilling to date. Running over five days, from 15 to 19 February, we are excited to see what newcomer L’Wren Scott, who will be showcasing her new collection on the catwalk for the very first time, has in store for us, along with the graduate offerings from the Central Saint Martins’ MA students. Tom Ford will have his own on-schedule slot (having previously only held private viewings) on the penultimate day, taking his place alongside fellow designers Peter Pilotto, Christopher Kane and JW Anderson. Finally, London favourites Preen, Mary Katrantzou, Temperley London, Jonathan Saunders and Moschino Cheap & Chic are sure to live up to our expectations and put on memorable shows.
Jonathan Saunders A/W12
Marios Schwab A/W12 Peter Pilotto A/W12
Temperley London A/W12
London Fashion Week Friday 15 February – Tuesday 19 February www.londonfashionweek.co.uk
Her S T Y L E By OLIVIA SHARPE
Posh Power Having recently admitted in a new documentary that once upon a time no one wanted to date her, Victoria Beckham has transformed herself from those Spice Girls days, today acclaimed as one of the most influential fashion designers of our time (as well as being married to one of the most desired men in the world), proving that fairy-tales can come true. In a further triumph, the style icon has just announced plans to launch an e-commerce site for her brand this spring. The website will sell accessories, eyewear, denim and the designer’s Victoria Victoria Beckham line. This new enterprise will no doubt set in motion a series of expansions for the brand, including a future standalone store, as hinted at by the label’s CEO, Zach Duane.
FASHION
Star Quality With its first standalone store having launched in November, the STAR HU boutique has quickly become one of our favourite new haunts in Portobello. The designer behind the label is Star Yixuan Hu; raised in Tokyo, she graduated from Istituto Marangoni in London and designed her first collection with the aim of creating pieces of timeless elegance. As such, her offering combines both modern and classic designs, which have been spotted on the likes of Rita Ora, Bella Freud and Camilla Rutherford. STAR HU 281 Portobello Road, W10 5TZ O20 3632 9369 www.starhu.com
Flying High If you’ve passed one the Gucci boutiques recently, you will have noticed that the current windows are somewhat whimsical. This is due to a new partnership between Gucci and Japanese Manga artist Hirohiko Araki. The window installation, on display until the end of February, is entitled Jolyne, Fly High with Gucci and tells the story of Jolyne Cujoh, a student who inherits a keepsake from her mother’s Gucci collection. It echoes the colour palette and graphic undertones of Giannini’s Cruise collection, as well as referencing the house’s signature Flora pattern.
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Get Shirty The white shirt has been reinterpreted many a time; making its first appearance in a portrait of Marie Antoinette in 1793, its status changed dramatically by the 19th century, becoming a symbol for those who didn’t work. In the 1950s, Audrey Hepburn brought the white shirt back into the fashion spotlight, showing how it could be worn to express femininity by wearing it tightly-fitted, and this continued into the 60s. In the 80s, Hollywood actresses such as Julia Roberts and Uma Thurman gave it an androgynous look by wearing it oversized and now, the white shirt is a staple garment in both men’s and women’s wardrobes. As a loyal ambassador of the white shirt, fashion designer Carolina Herrera has made it the star of many of her collections as well as the emblem of her brand. In time for spring, Herrera has launched a collection of eight cotton shirts, each with its own unique design. From £145 www.carolinaherrera.com
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www.gucci.com
The Coup of Couture Status The end of 2012 saw both Maison Martin Margiela and Alexis Mabille awarded the haute couture appellation by the Chambre Syndicale, French fashion’s governing body. Without this official status, a brand is not allowed to call itself a couture house. To achieve it, both brands had to demonstrate a number of specifications in the following categories: the number of looks shown per show, the size of the atelier, whether or not two collections are shown per year and the standard of the pieces produced. The labels join an exclusive and prestigious group of fashion houses already holding this title, including Dior, Chanel and Giambattista Valli.
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Blue
February is the month of romance; fall in love with the most sophisticated of colours, in the form of luxurious fabrics and decadent dresses
Turquoise blue tulle gown, Christian Dior ÂŁ10,500, 020 7172 0172
Creative Director and Stylist:
Photography:
Francesca Barrow
Hugh O'Malley
Gown, £2,100, Vivienne Westwood Red Carpet Capsule Collection, 020 7629 3757 Isla wide fade-in cuff, £256, and Ruby cuff (mixed), £189, both Alice Menter www.alicementer.co.uk
Black floral evening full length skirt, ÂŁ635, Carolina Herrera 020 7581 3031, silk blouse, ÂŁ245, Max Mara, 020 7518 8010
Sinatra trilby in velour with velvet twisted tube and jewellery, £750, Philip Treacy www.philiptreacy.co.uk, Sophia blue leather collar, £607.50, Alice Menter, as before Jacket, £700, Max Mara, 020 7518 8010, silk trousers, £270, Kelly Love www.kellylove.com
Navy and black feather cocktail dress, £450, Carolina Herrera 020 7581 3031, Isla wide fade-in cuff, £265.50 Alice Menter, as before
Creative Director and Stylist: Francesca Barrow at Façonner (www.faconner.co.uk) Hair stylist: Joey Wheeler at Richard Ward Hair & Metrospa (020 7730 1222; www.richardward.com) MAKE-UP artist: Tora Young MODEL: Jenna at Booking's LOCATION: The Kensington Suite at Wyndham Grand Chelsea Harbour, SW10 0XG 020 7823 3000; www.wyndhamgrandlondon.co.uk
FASHION
A Few Good Men Hollywood’s leading men have added their own individual senses of style to Prada’s S/S13 menswear campaign. Established stars, as well as up-and-coming talent, came together for an intimate series of black and white portraits, shot by celebrated photographer David Sims. The monochrome photography cleverly contrasts with the personality of each actor, successfully bringing Prada’s new collection to life in a unique and contemporary way. Layered shirting, low-cut polo shirts and lightweight coats are displayed throughout the campaign by actors Harvey Keitel, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Benicio Del Toro and Dane DeHaan. www.prada.com
His S T Y L E By Natalie Bollu
New York Bound Having successfully extended its operations across the Channel, Spain’s Massimo Dutti recently launched its first store in the US. Taking up residence on New York’s Fifth Avenue, no less, the store is the largest Massimo Dutti in the world, spanning three floors and 1,270 square metres. To mark its Stateside debut, the firm has created the 689 5th Avenue Collection, its ode to the city that never sleeps. Pay particular attention to the cashmere blazers and extra-fine wool sweaters. The limited collection is available in flagship stores and online. www.massimodutti.com
Westwood’s MAN Collection Vivienne Westwood teamed up with Harrods to showcase her A/W13 MAN collection in a worldwide exclusive preview. The show was presented at the Knightsbridge store and comprised a blend of music, style and fashion, demonstrating the designer’s well-known creative and innovative vision. An edited selection of key looks from the full collection was also previewed. Westwood is one of several fashion designers to have recently added a men’s line to their repertoire and it has been universally well-received. www.viviennewestwood.com www.harrods.com
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Male Platform The one-stop shop website for men recently joined forces with leading menswear designers Richard Nicoll, Katie Eary, SIBLING and Matthew Miller for London Collections: Men. Each designer created three pieces which were launched with a presentation during the second edition of London’s menswear showcase. Designs include Richard Nicoll’s graphic sweaters, a fish and baroque print with gold, orange and yellow by Katie Eary featured on T-shirts and a sweatshirt, and a blue and black leopard print cardigan by SIBLING, to name a few. The new designs have been available online since 8 January. www.mrporter.com
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Swiss movement, English heart
Swiss made / 26 jewel automatic movement / 38 hour power reserve / Balance wheel viewing window / Old radium SuperLuminovaTM hands and indices / Diameter: 44mm / Calibre: Sellita SW200-1
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Garden &
home Home is where the heart is, so make your house, and garden, a reflection of your personal style
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home: me: Fireside Drinks Curl up with a glass of wine in front of the fireplace in this neutral, chic living space, brightened by art
4 3 5 1 Finesse rectangular metal platter, £46, Artisanti, www.artisanti.com 2 Crinoline chandelier, £34,100, Baccarat, www.baccarat.com 3 Eichholtz Richmond chair, £885 (in sale; originally £1,475), Occa Home, www.occa-home.co.uk 4 Missoni Home chevron cushion, £169, Selfridges www.selfridges.com 5 Moore and Moore chinchilla faux-fur cushion, £99, Selfridges, as before 6 Deknudt nest mirror, £490.50, Occa Home, as before Main Image: The Lancasters by Helen Green Design, 29 Milner Street, SW3 2QD; 020 7352 3344, www.helengreendesign.com
Garden Grooming
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Following winter, your garden may be looking a little worse for wear, so here are a few key tips to get your garden looking neat, tidy and ready for spring and summer • Begin by trimming overgrown grass, removing any weeds that may have germinated over the winter and flattening out uneven lumps and bumps in the lawn. • Prepare flowerbeds and borders by forking over the soil, adding new compost and re-shaping edges. The use of pre-designed templates can help to avoid oddly-shaped flowerbeds; these can either be printed from the Internet or simply designed by hand and then cut out.
Garden: Winters Alfresco Make a romantic outdoors hot toddy possible this Valentine’s Day with these essential products
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• Moss may have appeared during the winter, making your garden look unkempt. Applying lawn sand can slowly decrease the spread of moss before spring arrives and it is essential that this is spread as soon as you notice it developing. • Towards the end of February, the days may start to become warmer and flowers such as narcissi, cyclamen and crocus will begin to blossom. On the other hand, if snow is to be expected, wrapping insulation such as a garden fleece around vulnerable plants will ensure that they survive the frost.
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1 Sparta pavilion seater, £8,870, www.luxdeco.com 2 Atlanta garden torch, £59.99, www.poshgardenfurniture.co.uk 3 Faux fur throws, £239.95 www.mooreandmooredesign.com 4 Mantra round coffee table, £550.00, www.luxdeco.com 5 William Yeoward Hortense French navy cushion, £125 www.amara.co.uk 6 Colorado steel chimenea, £119.99, www.poshgardenfurniture.co.uk
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ENJOY YOUR VERY OWN WALL OF SOUND The new BeoLab 12 is a fully digital on-wall loudspeaker that produces sensational surround sound in a graceful, minimalist fashion. It is the perfect compliment to any flat-screen or home stereo system. This revolutionary loudspeaker co-operates with the wall it is placed on, transmitting treble and bass sounds with outstanding precision and depth. BeoLab 12 features a sculptural design that forms a reassuring wave pattern that beholds powerful capabilities, maximizing every inch of the slim space. Call it the world’s most high-performing optical illusion, because when viewed from the side, this commanding loudspeaker appears even slimmer.
Visit our showroom to experience the spectacular sound of BeoLab12 Bang & Olufsen of Chelsea 147 Kings Road, London SW3 5TX Tel: 020 7376 5222 Email: chelsea@bang-olufsen.co.uk www.bang-olufsen.com/chelsea
bang-olufsen.com
Bang & Olufsen of Chelsea - BeoLab 12 Advert - Place at 100% (297 x 210mm + 3mm Bleed)
INTERIORS
An upper area in the Rogers’ house contains a meeting area, desk and library All images courtesy of: Great Houses of London by James Stourton, Frances Lincoln / Photographs by Fritz von der Schulenburg
Keeping up with ThE JENckSES
Behind the façade of the conventional terraced house is not always what you’d expect, finds Gemma Taylor, in these personal and imaginative reinventions With many of London’s most beautiful houses bombed or demolished in the 20th century, the architectural spotlight turned to the country. as impressive as these rural estates are, necessity often breeds invention and the space constraints of urban living have stretched the imagination of these Kensington and Chelsea residents.
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California Dreaming richard rogers’ house, Chelsea On the corner of St Leonard’s Terrace and Royal Avenue is a pair of 1840s stucco row houses that have become a hidden meeting place for politics, television and the arts. Architect Richard Rogers is heavily influenced by the flexibility and speed of construction of Californian houses. His wife, and renowned chef of the River Café, Ruth, dictated a large entertaining area so the couple won planning permission to combine the two houses into one exhilarating double-height space that Rogers calls the Piazza. Natural light pours in on all sides and a large Warhol of Mao brings the room together.
Above / Split levels converge on the living room Left / The kitchen is at the heart of the living space
INTERIORS
The architectural library
The garden front
The front door is a homonoid with head, hands and heart for a postbox
Post-modern examPle the Jencks House, Holland Park This shrine to post-modern architecture displays organic art deco motifs with a number of other art movement references – pop art, surrealism and Biedermeier – to create a witty and parodic experience. Converted in the 1980s, the façade blends the London stock brick and cream stucco with neo-classicism and mannerism. Coming after the analytical austerity of the modern movement, owner Charles Jencks wanted this building to be a symbolic journey of radical eclecticism. Others would describe it as a gateway building to kitsch. The Foursquare room
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INTERIORS
The AfTermATh of WAr milner Street, Chelsea Leading interior designer of the 1960s Michael Inchbald used the rooms in his uncle’s house to showcase his innovative style. Rebelling against modernist architects, he evolved a look of modernist lines with classical objects. As the product of war shortages and make-do-and-mend ingenuity, he would make commonplace materials look expensive and many of his letters were written on scrap paper and sent in reused envelopes.
Above / The dining room in 1970s French style Right / Long windows and long and orange/ochre walls hint at the 1960s
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Nu-Line b athroom sho wroom Unit 12- 14 M alton Ro ad London W10 5U P
Tel: 020 8206 5177 Fax: 020 8206 5188 Email: sales@nu-linebathrooms.com
www.nulinebathrooms.com
Floris is delighted to announce the opening of a new Bespoke Perfumery Boutique at 147 Ebury Street, Belgravia, 282 years since Mr and Mrs Floris opened the doors to their first Perfumery at 89 Jermyn Street.
Health &
b eauty “You can be gorgeous at 30, charming at 40 and irresistible for the rest of your life” – Coco Chanel
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Gifts for Her Treat the lady in your life to these newly-released beauty products for Valentine’s Day 1. For lipstick, there is no beauty brand quite like Givenchy. Using the house’s latest power lipstick, hot red lips are left with a velvety, luminous finish. Le Rouge Givenchy, £24, www.givenchy.com 2. After a heavy night out, coat your face in some of Clinique’s Moisture Surge Overnight Mask. This latest miracle-worker restores radiance while you sleep. Moisture Surge Overnight Mask, £28 www.clinique.co.uk 3. Emma Watson has us excited for spring in her new beauty campaign for Lancôme which perfectly captures romance in the city. Baume in Love, £20, Dewy Mist, £22 www.lancome.co.uk
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4. From the beauty expert who brought us the award-winning skincare line, Extra, comes a new star on the skin screen, Extra Bright Skincare. Bobbi Brown Extra Bright range www.bobbibrown.co.uk
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5. If, by the end of the day, your make-up is halfway down your face, Estée Lauder has the solution. Its new Double Wear foundation formula has been enhanced in a new sheer version which lasts for up to 15 hours, even on a hot day. Double Wear Light SPF 10, £26.50 www.esteelauder.co.uk 6. L’Occitane has made Valentine’s Day about the boys as well as the girls with its new Valentine’s range for him and her. Available at L’Occitane boutiques from 4 February. Spring Cherry Collection, £39 uk.loccitane.com 7. Worthy of a place on your dressing table, the sister fashion label to Chloe has launched its own fragrance in a gorgeous bottle. Available at Harrods from 24 February, See by Chloe Eau de Parfum (50ml), £49 www.harrods.com
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Health &
b eauty “You can be gorgeous at 30, charming at 40 and irresistible for the rest of your life” – Coco Chanel
the bold and the beautiful The season of award ceremonies is upon us and first up: the BAFTAs. Just as we enjoy the beautiful dresses, so we also look to the Red Carpet goddesses to show us the new beauty trends. Last year, bold brows, bright lips in varying hues and smoky eyes were staples looks. As a prelude to the ceremony, Lancôme has announced the launch of its limited edition blusher to celebrate its partnership with the British Film and Television Awards. The blusher, available from 1 February, comes in a shade named Rose Sable and will be available exclusively at Selfridges. As the official beauty and make-up partner, we can be sure several products will be being worn by the stars, so we suggest you stock up now. Simon James / Shutterstock.com
Spa of the Month: Salt & Chocolate The nail bar has only been there for two years, but like anything that lands on Walton Street, it has easily fitted into its surroundings and become a popular destination for the locals. Having always wanted to open a boutique in the tradition of the French artistic salons, founder of Salt & Chocolate Yana Uralskaya went for the next best thing with her nail salon, featuring famous photographers including Terry O’Neill, Joseph Ford and Schlomi Nissim, and top nail technicians as opposed to artists and painters. With a cabinet displaying jewellery fit for a princess, bespoke Jimmie Martin photography and endless photographs on the wall (In case you didn’t already know, Yana is also a fashion writer and international correspondent for magazines such as Vogue Russia, New Style and Pulse UK), you don’t even need to read a magazine to keep yourself entertained when you go in for one of the nail treatments, so artistic is the art club-inspired decor.
www.lancome.com
Revolutionary Skincare
Salt & Chocolate, 107 Walton Street SW3 2HP, 020 7589 9936; www.saltandchocolate.co.uk
As you attempt to overhaul your life with New Year resolutions, it’s a fitting time to rejuvenate your skin with a new routine. It is extremely important to keep your skin hydrated and Merumaya, an evolutionary skincare brand which launched at John Lewis this month, uses a new concept of ‘integrative effective skincare’ in order to prevent ageing and reawaken skin. Each uniquely formulated product addresses a broad spectrum of the signs of skin ageing, including radiance, texture, lines, elasticity, hydration, protection, energy, plumpness, skin tone, firmness, puffiness, dark circles, tightening, pore size, and adult spots. Another entry onto the skincare scene is Clarins’ new double serum. With more than 27 years of anti-ageing expertise, Clarins has discovered the secret ingredients needed to stall time without the need of an injection. With the power of two in one, the serum promises to minimise wrinkles, firm skin and create a more even complexion. www.johnlewis.com; www.clarins.co.uk
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Kids
kINg dom Ensure the children feel oh-so-cosy in cashmere as the chilly winter months roll on
Harry Jack James Oliver
Emily Sophie Lily Jessica
What’s In a Name? Despite there having been an influx of unconventional baby names in recent years, including the likes of Coco, Summer, Rain and River, it seems that it is the golden oldies which remain the favourites among the majority of the population, as revealed by the 2012 Top 100 baby names report by Bounty, suggesting that parents would rather play it safe that end up with a playground-teased child. Almost certainly thanks to the prince’s unswerving popularity, Harry has been crowned the number one name for boys for the second consecutive year, followed closely by Jack, James and Oliver. ‘Old man’ names, in particular those which can be abbreviated from their traditional variation, such as Alfie, Charlie, Bobby and Freddy, are part of a growing trend. Girls’ names which never seem to fall in popularity are Emily, Sophie, Lily and Jessica, although Olivia has been bumped off the number one spot by Amelia after a long-standing reign. Ones to watch for 2013 include vintage classics Florence, Elsie, Frankie and Arthur. For parents expecting this year, Bounty spokesman Lisa Penney urges them not to stress over the name choice: “Generally speaking, whatever name a child is given they usually grow up to make it their own.” But just to be on the safe side, maybe stay away from anything Gwyneth Paltrow might deem appropriate.
mother Nature m mo No matter what the garment, whether a cardigan, jumper or even a pair of socks, it is always effortlessly chic when it’s cashmere. So we were very pleased to learn that Italian children’s cashmere label Cashmirino would be launching in the UK. Available online, the designs have come straight from Milan and include beautiful V-neck cardigans and double-breasted blazers for the boys and dresses with polka dots and delicate apricot boucle loop stitching for girls. For babies, highlight pieces include V-neck vest jumpsuits and Bordeaux band neck rompers. Make sure you check out the recently extended collection which features cotton and linen pieces. www.cashmirino.com
From Paris With Love Jacadi Paris has once again travelled across the Channel and, this time, it has docked in London. First stop for the children’s boutique was the King’s Road in October last year and, surely because of its obvious success, the company quickly launched its second store in the capital only a month later. Situated on the Brompton Road and walking distance from the Lycée, this seems to have been the ideal location, as its arrival has been received warmly by residents of the borough, whether French or not. Like its mother boutique, the new flagship store houses all six of the Jacadi collections: Newborn, Baby, Child, Mademoiselle Jacadi, Home Collection and Shoes. The new boutique has brought an elegant touch of Parisian atmosphere and French chic to the children of London. Jacadi, 52 Brompton Road, SW3 1BW www.jacadi.com
By the Seaside Clothing brand Caramel shows off its unceasing charm once again with its S/S13 collection; pieces have been named after coastal towns and villages across England, evoking images of seaside escapes in the spring. The dainty young woman from Blackpool dresses in a 1950s-style blue dress, while the casual chic girl from Sandwich sports a floral print top with rosecoloured trousers. Cotton shirts and jerseys in palettes of stone grey and oatmeal are shot with vibrant yellow shorts and forest green trousers for the boys from Whitby, Thurleston and Brighton. The playful names highlight founder Eva Karayiannis’s aim of creating a collection that is as much about fun as it is about style, far away from ‘mass-produced clothing covered in logos.’ Caramel Baby & Child 259 Pavilion Road, Sloane Square, SW1X 0BP 020 7730 2564; www.caramel-shop.co.uk
A Child In Time Although technology is all very well, there is something to be said about those special moments, such as a Christening or a child’s first birthday, losing that lovely intimacy when captured by a photograph. This is why we have fallen in love with baby portrait artist Natasha Gomperts, who gets back to basics by sketching babies using old fashioned pencils and rubber. Although you will find many artists willing to capture your new-born in a sketch, Gomperts will draw babies directly from life rather than copying from a photograph (which can lack both accuracy and poignancy). Focusing on movements, Gomperts comes to your home and observes your baby in different situations in order to achieve that perfect picture. Baby drawing sessions start from £150. www.natashagomperts.com
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Kiss It Better We give Clinique our personal kiss of approval this February as the beauty brand releases its latest limited edition Kisses from Clinique set. £2 from every purchase will be donated to the Kiss it Better appeal, part of the Great Ormond Street Children’s Charity which raises money to fund research into the causes and treatments of childhood cancer. The set includes the best-selling shades of Clinique’s iconic Superbalm Moisturizing Gloss. www.clinique.co.uk
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Kids
king dom Make your little darling feel extra-special on Valentine’s Day with flowers, new clothes or jewellery
Coming Up Roses
20 Years of kidston
Since the classical era, the rose has been seen as a symbol of love; the Ancient Greeks and Romans identified this flower with their goddess of love, Aphrodite. Today, we continue to use the rose as a token of love on the most romantic holiday of the year. Surprise your little one this 14 February with a bouquet of flowers from the number one rose boutique in London, which offers the largest selection of the freshest Ecuadorian roses in the UK, in countless varieties, colours, shapes and sizes. The Only Roses Red Rose Heart is made with 65, 90 or 145 roses, depending on how much you want to make your feelings felt.
Cath Kidston has been delighting its customers with its unique designs, which take the form of fashion, homeware and accessories, for the past 20 years. Its staple floral, polkadot and automobile prints have become so recognisable that you can instantly spot a Cath Kidston product. To commemorate its 20th anniversary, Kidston dedicates its S/S13 collection to those classic prints which are at the heart of the brand. Each statement pattern has been injected with a touch of British humour, so expect novelty prints and a twist on the classics to take centre stage this season.
Medium rose heart, £250 Only Roses 257 Old Brompton Road, SW5 9HP www.only-roses.com
www.cathkidston.co.uk
i Heart Jewellery Make your daughter feel grown-up this Valentine’s Day with one of these precious trinkets
Olivia Rose ring, £250 LeiVanKash, www.myflashtrash.com
True love locket, £15.95 Elsie Belle, www.myflashtrash.com
Lost lace heart ring £65-75, Julia Burness Love cuff, £95, Julia Burness www.juliaburnessjewellery.com
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arrive and revive
The ‘Alm’ we hiked to today was an insider tip from our host. The view from here of sun-kissed mountain peaks reaching for the sky is simply spellbinding. We feel totally free, nearly giddy with joy. We might even spend the night up here. Just like the dairy maid. For information about holidays in Austria, visit www.austria.info/treasures or call 0845 101 1818
James Purdey & Sons Ltd. 57 - 58 South Audley Street, London W1K 2ED +44 (0)20 7499 1801 www.purdey.com
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Full ThroTTle:
Vintage Masterpieces Natalie Bollu explains why these vintage Ferrari posters, with an art Deco style and a touch of sophistication, are bound to appeal to car enthusiasts
In recent years, the interest among collectors for vintage car posters has grown significantly. In november last year, the Vintage Poster auction at christie’s south Kensington saw two 1929 stenberg Brothers russian lithographs go for an impressive £100,000 each. Pullman editions specialises in limited-edition posters such as these, all of which possess a striking visual impact and its own unique design. the posters are created using traditional techniques, on to cotton fine art paper, and are all signed and embossed with a stamp of authenticity. artists such as Dexter Brown, charles avalon and emilio saluzzi have all contributed to the original and prominent designs; Brown offers an impressionistic
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and artistic style while avalon’s creations are traditional with a twist of art Deco. saluzzi is an innovative automobile artist whose dramatic works are reminiscent of the Italian Futurism movement. Pullman editions’ latest Historic Ferrari 1949-1974 collection consists of 24 posters illustrating dramatic scenes from Ferrari’s glamorous heritage. each poster showcases the most impressive moments on the track from the classic road Ferrari, as well as from Le Mans, the Monaco Grand Prix and the Mille Miglia. Historic Ferrari: Legends of Road and Track 1949-1974 All 24 posters are priced at £395; www.pullmaneditions.com
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GoinG once,
Going Twice With more investment coming from the Middle East, the horseracing industry is facing a revival. Gemma Taylor travels to Newmarket to find out why now is the time to buy a horse IT IS NOTORIOUSLY HARD to make money out of horses, but for high earning risk takers who enjoy a flutter, there’s not a more exciting hobby. Newmarket is the epicentre of the business, where trainers, breeders, owners and bloodstock agents converge to make up the complex equine ecosystem. And at the heart of Newmarket are the sales, where everyone is looking for the future superstar of racing. Trainer Edward Dunlop is one such person. Known for his hospitality, Ed is happy to let people look around, whereas some stables are so superstitious they won’t tell the media which horse is which for fear of changing the horse’s luck. The highest rated racehorse in the world, Frankel, has an unbeaten record of 14 wins and, now retired, is valued at £100 million. His trainer, Sir Henry Cecil, understandably, kept him out of the media spotlight for fear of jinxing him. On the morning of the sales, Ed’s yard is a hive of activity and the horses prepare to go out for their morning exercise on the gallops on Warren Hill. At well over six feet tall, Ed’s dreams of becoming a jockey expired quickly and instead he can be seen calling comments and instructions to his horses’ riders as they canter past. “Thoroughbreds are like children, they get sick easily and a small cut can blow up. We give them high protein feed, ‘rocket fuel’, and hope that after our training programme they go on to win races. Highly bred and highly strung, they love routine, so we
give them a military regime,” he says. Although a horse in training could be costing Ed’s clients, who include Sir Alex Ferguson and Andrew Lloyd Webber, £20,000 to £30,000 a year by the Racehorse Owners Association estimations, there are huge profits to be made for the lucky ones. Snow Fairy, one of Ed’s most successful horses, was bought for only €1,800 and went on to win more than £4 million in prize money. All thoroughbreds can be traced back to three Arabian horses from the 1600s which were crossed with native mares. Amy Bennett, marketing executive for British Bloodstock Marketing, explains further: “It doesn’t involve a lot of inbreeding because racehorses are bred to be athletes, not for aesthetic qualities. The pedigree of a horse is carefully considered long before it is conceived. These cultivated genes are extremely valuable you can see stallions such as Sea the Stars demanding a stud fee of €85,000.” Although a good heritage can help, it’s not a guarantor and going to the sales is useful to see how horses might react in a busy racing environment. As the oldest sales in the world, Tattersalls was founded in 1766 in Kensington and relocated offices to Newmarket after the site was bombed in WW2. There are sales throughout the year in February, April, May, July, four in October and three in November. The rich and famous, including author Jilly Cooper, mill about the stable yards
Snow Fairy, bought for €1,800, went on to win more than £4 million in prize money
Photography: Dan Abraham
FEATURE
Buying a horse opens the door to a world of passion, sweat, joy and heartache
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looking at how the horses react to the crowd. They are all unbroken and some foam at the mouth, while anxious leaders whisper to them to relax. The bell rings for the auction to begin and the tension jumps a notch. Horses neigh wildly, married couples whisper intently and young landed gentry, trainers, owners, press and buyers from India, Turkey, China and Japan make their way purposefully to the theatre. Most buyers go through a bloodstock agent and are sometimes on the other end of a phone during the bidding. Bloodstock agents arrive early to watch the yearlings walk and guess how likely they are to win The Derby. The Derby is Britain’s most famous Group 1 flat horse race and the most prestigious of the country’s five classics in England. Open to three-year-old thoroughbred colts and fillies, it is run at Epsom Downs in June over a distance of one mile, four furlongs and 10 yards (2,423 metres). Being a bloodstock agent 40 years ago was a prestigious role for ex-army officers. Now anyone with a good stock of knowledge and experience can build a career. Amy believes that being a good bloodstock agent relies on confident judgement as you live and die on your results. Angus Gold, Sheikh Hamdan’s agent, can be seen clutching his book with nerves of steel. “Angus would have a team of people to make sure all the horses at the sales had been looked at before even thinking
about bidding. For example, if Sheikh Hamdan said he wanted a sprinter, Angus and his team would narrow them down to the best few and have a vet check their heart and X-rays for any bone problems before making a final selection on which to bid on,” says Amy. Auctioneer Alistair Prim starts the bidding to a hushed crowd. Alistair’s father was an auctioneer and his jokey banter soon has hands flying with sales reaching well over the £1 million mark. Martin Mitchell, former Director of Tattersalls for many years and currently a consultant, has noticed a recent change in spend. “15 years ago there seemed to be a number of horses making £1 million to £2 million and a lot making £30,000 to £40,000. Now the top and bottom tiers have dropped off because of foreign investment from Qatar and America and the compacted market sees sales averaging at £800,000 to £1 million.” Some owners and trainers bought foals at the sales last year for £70,000, for example, and are now looking to make a profit by selling them as a yearling for possibly £220,000. With yearly keep costs at £10,000, pinhooking can be a lucrative business. After the sales, buyers have 28 days to pay and have the horse drug tested after which the yearling will go to the breakers where it will spend a couple of weeks being handled. In some instances using long reins and
A thoroughbred’s owner can expect fees of up to £85,000 per mare for his valuable genes
FEATURE
leaning gradual weights on the horse isn’t enough and the horse whisperer must be called. Thoroughbreds are natural followers and sometimes all it takes is a shoulder nudge in the right way for a horse to follow. A thoroughbred which then goes on to win race after race will be rewarded with early retirement to a stud farm where his owner can expect fees of up to £85,000 per mare for his valuable genes. The most expensive stallion in Britain in 2013 is Frankel, standing at £125,000, but fees range down to around £1,000. Matthew Sigsworth, management assistant at Cheveley Stud Farm, says Group 1 winner Pivotal sired 135 mares last season. “Those who work in this profession have enough euphemisms to sink a ship and never actually say the word ‘sex’. Our stallions cover three a day at 9.30am, 3.30pm and 8.00pm. The rest of the time they eat and sleep. It’s every horse’s dream. If they stop working, they go out to paddock or are gelded and sent to jump race,” he says. A small graveyard lies at the end of the stud farm’s drive. When a horse dies it’s traditional to bury the head, hoof, heart and testicles, although a strange, macabre Victorian practice was to keep the hoof and polish it for use as an ink quill. Matthew says that when the end does come, owners like to stay in touch and instead keep a shoe or lock of hair as a reminder of the momentous and profitable life they’ve had together.
Owners are careful not to overtrain the horses so they peak for the race, like an Olympian
Auctioneer Alistair Prim talks at lightning speed
For those thinking about owning a horse, visit www.own1.co.uk and join horse owners Dame Judi Dench, Ronan Keating and James Nesbitt.
Each horse has their own bridle to stop passing infections
Trainers exercise horses on the gallops on Warren Hill in the morning mist
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Bloodstock agent Angus Gold waits for his lots to come out
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Michael Schumacher was speaking at the launch of the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Michael Schumacher Chronograph Images courtesy of Audemars Piguet. www.audemarspiguet.com
FEATURE
Taking
A Bow
“As a racing driver it is your job to push things to the absolute limit. And in order to find out what that limit is, you kind of have to overshoot it. That is the principle of racing. To go beyond.” RichaRd BRown meets Michael Schumacher, a man who spent two decades doing just that HiS ATTiTude To rAcing left his contemporaries cold. Willing to run his closest competitors off the track, to sacrifice his individual race mid-meet, to veer into his own brother in order to procure a place on the podium, it was all about victory; victory at all costs, victory in spite of scrutiny, censure and, seemingly, the safety of others. That was then and this is now. And while the characteristic self-assurance remains, the man speaking from the shadows of a disused power station in Berlin – steely-eyed, enormously-jawed – is an evolved version of his former self; more humble, more human, more humorous even. Michael has mellowed. At 43, it is, no doubt, an age thing. it is also the product of three years spent familiarising himself with a word, until recently, he never really understood: losing. ever since he was lured out of retirement by Brawn in 2009, his passion for racing having been reignited the previous year when he was asked by Ferrari to stand in for an injured Felipe Massa, he has found himself routinely at the wrong end of the starting grid. in a triplet of seasons, he notched up only one podium finish. during the same period, he out-qualified his younger compatriot teammate, nico rosberg, only 17 times. in 2012 alone, a year in which he drove his 300th Formula 1 race, the former world champion was forced to retire an indefensible seven times. He had returned to the sport he had dominated for nearly a decade under the guidance of the man who had masterminded his seven world titles. He had intended to pick up where he left off. But talk of an eighth world championship grew muted as he struggled with cars dramatically altered and competitors drastically improved. despite high-points in Monaco, where he claimed pole position, and Valencia, where he finished third, many suspected 2012 would be Schumacher’s last season, even before Mercedes’ signing of Lewis Hamilton confirmed it as so. The record-breaker had returned and been thoroughly found out. in his own words, he had failed. it was against this stark reality that i met Formula 1’s Marmite man. confident and quick-witted, Michael Schumacher exudes an aura belying his 5ft’8.5’in’ height. He is poised and carries the
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swagger of a champion, a product of routinely being described as one of the greatest of all time. When he retired in 2006 this was an accolade few would have disputed. Seven years later and many have started to reconsider the circumstances of Michael’s success. So who’s to blame? in october, Michael suggested the car. “it is without doubt that we did not achieve our goal to develop a world championship fighting car,” he told a press conference at Japan’s Suzuka circuit. When i met him in Berlin a few weeks later, at the launch of the Audemars Piguet royal offshore chronograph Michael Schumacher, he paid more reverence to the quality of the field around him. “The new generation are much more prepared. competition has gone to a higher level. There are lots of drivers now that know it’s not all about talent. it is about working with your team, maximising not just your own potential but the car’s potential, the team’s potential.” With this year’s grid comprising six world champions and a depth of talent comparable to that of any era, making an impression on the leaderboard was always going to be difficult, especially in a car that proved as unreliable as Mercedes’ W03. Yet rather than ruing the talent of the stable mates that, as of next season, will replace him, Schumacher is happy to have heralded in a new age of motorsport. “i guess i have been a pioneer of the generation that is now here. in a way, i should be proud of this.” indeed, if he was harbouring grudges against his contemporaries, he certainly didn’t show it. of the 2012 Alonso versus Vettel championship battle, he was lighthearted: “Being still a good friend of the Ferrari family, it’s sad to see [Alonso] losing his way. But on the other hand i have a good friend that goes by the name of Sebastian. either way, one of my friends will win.” of Massa’s improving form towards the end of this season, he was sympathetic: “i’m glad he has been given another opportunity to prove himself. He has had his ups and downs. He has shown he is right to be in Formula 1 and with Ferrari. next year i hope that times are less difficult for him.” And of a potential move to the brand of the prancing pony for Vettel, he was nostalgic: “Seb talks very highly about Ferrari. There’s no reason why not. At one point
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everyone likes to find a new orientation. I certainly did.” For Michael, new orientation came most notably in 1996 and in 2009. The first saw the recently crowned two-time world champion leave Benetton for the struggling Ferrari; a move that resurrected the reputation of the Italian brand and one that would, between 2000 and 2004, see Schumacher win more races than any driver in the history of Formula 1. After a retirement that lasted all of three years, the second heralded Michael’s return to the sport. “When I stopped, I was not intending to come back. During that time I enjoyed my freedom and the life I had. But the mission of building up Mercedes attracted me and that is why I came back. It was a mission and there was a timeframe in which I could see us achieving this mission.” Unfortunately, the task of reviving Mercedes proved a mission impossible. Reflecting on three years of failure, does Schumacher regret the comeback? “No. In life you can’t always be successful. It made me more mature; not more relaxed but it taught me how to manage things better, to be more patient. My life in the last three years might not have been as successful as we wanted, but you have to look at the total. Can you be happy? Can you look into the mirror and say you’ve given it your all? I can. And that’s what’s most important.” Statistically-speaking, Michael Schumacher is the greatest Formula 1 driver there has ever been. In 19 seasons he achieved seven World Championships, 91 Grand Prix wins, 154 podium finishes, 76 fastest laps and 68 pole positions. Five of his seven world titles came in five consecutive years, redefining what was possible in the sport and setting a new standard of racing in the 21st century. And away from the statistics, it will be individual performances and moments of driving brilliance that remain in the minds of many F1 nuts. Races like the 1996 Spanish Grand Prix and the Hungarian Grand Prix of 1998 have gone down in Formula 1 folklore as two of the sport’s most exciting spectacles. Others will use the 1995 European Grand Prix at the Nürburgring, where Schumacher made up a 42-second deficit in 27 laps to pass Jean Alesi on the penultimate lap, as evidence of the German’s genius. There is also the fact that up until 2003, Schumacher had won 17 of the 30 wet races in which he had competed. In a career littered with chequered flags and circuit records,
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what moments constitute highlights? “After more than 20 years in the sport, it’s not possible to pick one. The biggest achievement, and the one that meant most to me, however, was the one we did in 2000, winning the Championship with Ferrari after they had not done so for so long. Teamwork is very important to me. I’ve never seen myself as a single person in achieving all of these things. I’ve always done so as part of a team.” While the technological benefits Schumacher enjoyed first as part of Benetton, and then as part of Ferrari, make this undoubtedly true, it is for some very individual moments of madness (or should that be mastery?), aside from his driving capabilities, that he is remembered. The role he played in crashes with Damon Hill in 1994 and Jacques Villeneuve in 1997 still trigger debate, while few in F1 will forget the moment he abandoned his car during qualifying at Monaco 2006 to prevent rival Alonso retaining pole position. If it were up to him, though, how would Michael like to be thought of? “The first thing I am is a racing driver. Once a racing driver, always a racing driver. That is what I stand for. [I’d like] to be known for giving 100 per cent and for fighting to the end.” While he may not have set the 2012 leaderboard alight, there was certainly evidence that he did just that. Despite suffering from Mercedes’ dreary reliability record, Schumacher managed to qualify within the top five on the grid seven times in 2012. Had he not been forced to retire the same amount of times, he would almost certainly have finished ahead of teammate Rosberg in the driver standings. In crashes with Bruno Senna and Jean-Eric Vergne we saw glimpses of that unmistakable self-sacrificing, win-at-all-costs attitude that had characterised Schumacher’s earlier career. Michael is now retired and questions about where he falls within the annals of F1’s superstars will rumble on. For the champion himself, what next? “Will I continue in the racing scene? There is a very clear answer: no. And there is a very simple reason: Formula 1 is the pinnacle of motorsport. There is nothing better, nothing quicker, nothing, other than go-karting, more individual to your needs. It’s about what you do with your team and how you maximise your machine. That is what is so fascinating about this world: development. No other arena would be able to offer me that.”
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Over the MOOn:
Desert Dreaming nestled in the catarpe Valley in chile lies alto atacama, a remote desert lodge and spa in a truly out of this world location. Natalie Bollu reports
Unless yoU can afford the sky-high fare, or, of course, if you’re lucky enough to be pally with richard Branson and you get a free trip like Kate Winslet and new husband ned rocknroll, a trip into the stratosphere may be a little out of reach. opt for the next best thing instead and head to catarpe Valley in chile, where its awe-inspiring mountainous landscape is said to resemble the surface of Mars. The alto atacama hotel provides all of life’s little luxuries such as restorative massages, Turkish baths, yoga fields, hot springs, firepits and complete silence in which to utterly relax. Besides relaxing, there are also plenty of places around the hotel to explore for the more adventurous, including the historic
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pre-columbian PukarĂĄ de Quitor ruins and the san Pedro river which neighbour the hotel. Guests can hike the salt flats, trek the Valley of the Moon or even bike ride across the Inca pass. The hotel has purposely been designed to capture the look and feel of traditional, and local, village architecture and the patterns of the likanantay people. llamas and native crops are even looked after on site to add to this traditional feel. overall, alto atacama is a one-of-a-kind hotel where the location and the astounding setting make it an unbeatable place to unwind and explore. www.altoatacama.com
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★★★★★
Overlooking Kensington Palace and Hyde Park this gracious hotel offers exceptional value and service and is a landmark of unique character and 21st century elegance. Knightsbridge shopping, Kensington High Street antiques, the Royal Albert Hall and magnificent museums are all near at hand. From the stylish design and decor to the small thoughtful details and the discreet, yet warm personal service, our aim is to make every guest feel special, cared for, and most of all, at home.
1 Kensington Court, London W8 5DL T: +44 (0)20 7917 1000 E: bookms@rchmail.com www.milestonehotel.com For ‘Best Available Rates’ quote Kensington and Chelsea Magazine when booking.
Travel the
world “Not all those who wander are lost” – J.R.R. Tolkien
discover the desert The Banyan Tree Al Wadi, amid the vast desert of Wadi Khadeja in the United Arab Emirates, has awe-inspiring views of the rolling desert dunes, making it the ideal place to get away from the stresses of everyday life while broadening your horizons at the same time. Surrounding the hotel is a nature reserve, offering guests the unforgettable experience of interacting with native animals, which include Arabian gazelles, camels and oryxes (a type of native antelope). In this way, the outside environment has been seamlessly blended with the fringes of the hotel so guests can feel completely at one with nature during their stay. www.banyantree.com
Pack Up Your Troubles A glamorous weekend bag is an essential for romantic weekends away this Valentine’s Day. Our top three fit the necessary brief of being super stylish but also big enough to accommodate every single one of your potential outfit choices Audrey 24 Hour Bag, £795 Thomas Lyte, www.thomaslyte.com
Boston Holdall, £1,210 Smythson, www.smythson.com
Alice Bag, £1,195, Chloé Available at www.harrods.com
Prague’s Carnevale Having once been a political, cultural and economic epicentre, it is no wonder that, in 2011, Prague was voted the sixth most-visited city in Europe. During February in particular, the city comes alive with the annual Prague Carnevale season, which sees a series of historic performances being held at the Clam-Gallas Palace, one of the capital’s most beautiful and ancient Baroque buildings. During this season, thousands of visitors descend on the city, looking to whet their cultural appetites with ballet performances and opera, arias and dance. For a quick weekend getaway, Prague is certainly our number one destination this month. www.pragueexperience.com
Heaven in Hawaii The Sheraton Waikiki has undergone a dramatic £120 million renovation of its 1,636 rooms. Situated on the tranquil Waikiki beach, the contemporary and sophisticated 31-floor establishment offers panoramic views of the Pacific and its newly-built suites have a chic, modern decor. A variety of new restaurants and bars have been added to the resort, which also boasts an infinity pool, swim-up bar and an impressive 70-foot-long waterslide for those of you looking to keep your children entertained. In the meantime, unwind in one of the two large whirlpools or the ocean front adult-only pool, drink in hand. www.sheraton-waikiki.com
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TRAVEL
ThE uLTimATE
Hideaway AnnAbel HArrison escapes for a long weekend at Schloss Elmau in the Bavarian Alps, finding the combination of culture, cuisine, outdoor swimming and fresh mountain air utterly intoxicating
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THE STEAM RISES in hazy clouds, hangs in the air and clears away, offering a panoramic view of the spectacular snow-capped mountains, stretching as far as the eye can see. A refreshing attack on senses and skin, the water is warm but the air icy. The sun is dropping beneath the craggy rock faces and underwater lights, in blues and greens and pinks, illuminate the water. This, the outdoor rooftop pool of the Badehaus Spa, is my favourite place at Schloss Elmau, although I cannot say that I’m brave enough to throw myself into the snow and back into the pool (as other guests and my boyfriend choose to do). Schloss Elmau pitches itself as a luxury spa and cultural hideaway and, having spent three wonderful days and nights there, I can confirm this to be true. Although spa-going and cultural pursuits aren’t usually paired in such a way (and in fact I have never visited a hotel where they are), it works. Why wouldn’t you want to enjoy music and lectures if you’re focusing on your wellbeing? Built in 1916, the hotel began its life as a three star resort but after a terrible fire which destroyed huge parts of the building in 2005, it was rebuilt and reopened in 2007 as a five star resort. At 1,000 metres above sea level, Elmau is just an hour’s drive from Innsbruck, which is in turn a short (hour and a half) flight from London. Taking a 7.15am flight on a Friday gets you to the hotel by 11am, allowing you to enjoy a full day before the weekend even
starts. A driver meets us at the airport and we are whisked out of Austria and into Germany, through the beautiful, snowy-peaked landscape and Christmas tree-lined roads. Little wooden houses and huts are iced with thick layers of snow, which will remain here until April. As we wind our way up its long drive, we can see that Schloss Elmau is set in its own (picturesque) bubble and indeed, we feel no inclination to leave (except for some outdoor snow fun). From the moment we arrive, the members of staff are, without exception, polite and helpful, attentive in an unobtrusive way; not once do we feel as if someone is hovering near us or asking one too many times if everything is okay, a feeling in fact most prevalent (and welcome) in the spa and hammam. We’re often addressed in the first instance in German, indicative of the nationality of 80 per cent of the guests, but the staff smile and switch to fluent English as soon as they realise. The effect of the interior design overall is warmth; fresh white walls are given life by dark wood doors, cherry red carpets and concave gold wall lights throughout the hotel. Communal areas have well-tended, crackling fires and our favourite spot is the huge sofa in the Tea Lounge, where lovely music plays all day; on our first afternoon we enjoy a light lunch of spring rolls and salmon (and subsequently games of Scrabble and cakes each afternoon provided by the hotel).
1,000m above sea level, Elmau is an hour’s drive from Innsbruck
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We venture outside for a walk to the lake which takes 40 minutes, an activity suggested by the hotel’s lovely director of marketing, Dalia. I certainly recommend this; wrap up warm and just follow the road as instructed, until you reach the expanse of frozen water, with lakeside wooden structures that open in the summer, when temperatures can reach 30 degrees. The rooftop pool warms us up after our walk, as does the outdoor pool on the ground floor; warmer and a bit smaller, you can head straight back inside to the sauna or steam room (although you’re reminded of the guests’ nationalities by rather more nudity than you’d ever encounter in a spa in England!) En route back to our room, we happen upon the hammam, stocked with tea, Turkish delight and backgammon boards, and I relearn the game I played as a child. All the fresh air induces hunger and so our booking for the Ristorante Fidelio can’t arrive quick enough. Housed in a traditional, beamed wooden structure with expansive windows, which affords views of fairy-lit trees outside, drapes in scarlet and cream hang from the ceiling, separating diners into groups, and indoor trees are illuminated with green lights. Wine by the glass is between four and five euros, very reasonable and great if you don’t fancy a whole bottle (upwards of ¤38). The starters – leaf salad with prawns and black salsify cream soup with crustacean ravioli – are generous and very good but the main courses steal the show, so delicious we agree to share. The menu isn’t, by the way, overwhelmingly Italian if you’re worried about too much pizza and pasta; we devour sole, with winter truffle and
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green pea mash, and beef fillet with pear and Tropea onions, although I decide I’d rather the sauce was served in a little jug as there is a rather liberal helping. Satisfyingly full, we retire to our room. On the third floor, the views (as they are in fact from every window at Schloss) are just fantastic and our room, one of 128, itself is spacious yet, by virtue of wood and the use of warm reds, cosy. The bathroom has double sliding doors so it doesn’t feel too closed off from the main room, and the His and Hers sinks are much appreciated. It does get very warm at night so the hotel recommends that you just leave a window open if you’re too hot, which works fine for us. The minibar is stocked with complimentary soft drinks and small snacks; a nice touch, especially when contrasted with hotels which charge ¤8 for a Diet Coke. The bed is wide and comfortable too, confirmed by a blissful 11-hour sleep (perhaps also due to the pace of London life over the festive period). However, easing yourself up
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for breakfast is worth it, I promise; it’s buffet-style but offers everything you could desire. The homemade jams, croissants and eggs, any style, are particularly excellent. Breakfast is when you realise exactly how many children the hotel can accommodate, but during the day they can be kept amused in the Kids’ Club (9am-9pm). There are special Edutainment programmes (apparently kids just love the children’s philosophy sessions) and even a Family Spa (I love this touch; if you’re just with your partner, swimming is pretty much ruined if the pool is full of overexcited children, however cute they are). Having said that, we indulge our inner children and enjoy a snowman-building and toboganning afternoon just as much as the kids hurtling past us, crashing down the slopes on sleds, there for the borrowing. Back into the hotel for more cultural pursuits, though, we are enlightened by a lecture on economics given by the writer in residence Tomas Sedlacek, to about 40 guests; meant to be an hour, the attendees are full of questions and so we’re treated to an extra half hour discussion. With the evening comes one of 220 concerts held each year in the hotel’s very own concert hall at 7pm. About 150 people are enthralled for an hour by the beautiful music of Bach, as played by Janine and Jan Jansen, on violin and harpsichord, before the audience disperses for supper. Now, to supper; once again a buffet, there are several choices for every course (including two soups as well as starters and vegetarian courses) and all are, I must admit to my surprise, delicious. If a hotel offers
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several other restaurants, sometimes the buffet feels below par, or an afterthought but the calibre of the buffet cuisine is exceptional and I’d eat here every night without hesitation. What else must you try? For avid readers, there’s a wonderful silent library for whiling away happy hours; for the shoppers, explore the well-stocked lifestyle and fashion shops; for massage junkies like me, ask for a Shiatsu massage by Denise, one of the best I’ve ever had. I almost fall asleep despite the constant pressure. I have never returned home with such a yearning to go back. A weekend at Schloss Elmau seemed like a week and best of all, as my boyfriend summed up, it felt like home (albeit more luxurious and relaxing) as soon as we arrived. Schloss, I’ll be back.
more information Schloss Elmau Luxury Spa & Cultural Hideaway +49 8823 180; www.schloss-elmau.de fly into innsbruck: www.ba.com rates for a double room start from ¤250 per person, per night, for half board, which includes breakfast and dinner in the buffet restaurant transfers from innsbruck cost ¤150 each way and from munich ¤180 each way
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Champagne climate
Sarah CollinSon jets off to St Moritz to check out whether it lives up to its reputation, finding, happily, that skiers are as well catered for as non-skiers. There’s enough time for a trip before the snow melts in April
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When I Was invited to visit st Moritz I thought I had a clear idea of what to expect: a weekend of decadence in the ‘Monte Carlo of the alps’, where skiing would be at the bottom of the agenda and we’d spend our days wafting from Chanel boutique to champagne bar to deluxe spa without much thought of the mountains we were surrounded by. It would be a place of luxury and excess, where the ostentatious super rich bump shoulders with incognito celebrities and the concept of a quiet night in just doesn’t exist. excellent, I thought, and immediately picked up the phone to borrow a fur hat. Its reputation as an adult playground did not disappoint. We danced at the infamous King’s Club where the dress code is über-glam and a closing time doesn’t exist – they keep serving drinks until that last guest leaves. We shopped along the Via serlas which felt like a smaller but just as chic Bond street with high fashion names sitting alongside niche jewellers and premier wine stores. and we stayed in the beautiful Badrutt’s Palace hotel – the oldest hotel in the town which sits, castle-like, overlooking Lake st Moritz. With its beautifully designed suites, gourmet cuisine (including an outpost of nobu),
Badrutt’s Palace Hotel, the oldest hotel in the town, sits castle-like overlooking Lake St Moritz an outdoor infinity pool complete with champagne bar and ceaselessly fantastic service (including someone to help you put your ski boots on each morning) this was the epitome of everything I’d hoped st Moritz would be. But in the face of all this glitz and glamour what is often overlooked – and what I certainly was not expecting – is how fantastic a place it is for skiing. It’s rumoured that st Moritz was the birthplace of winter tourism in the alps, with the story going that hotelier John Badrutt (of Badrutt’s Palace fame) bet some summer guests that they would be more entertained if they stayed during the winter months and he would pay for their return journey if not. apparently they loved the resort so much that they stayed for the full season, and it’s pretty clear to me why. With a resort altitude of 1,856 metres and a highest lift height of 3,303 metres, the view was spectacular as I jetted, courtesy of sWIss, into st Moritz, one of the alps’ most snow-sure resorts. With an average 322 days of sun per year, ‘champagne climate’ – rather than referring to the constant popping of corks off, and on, the slopes – describes the dry, cold, bright conditions perfectly. There are three main ski areas with more than 350
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kilometres of pistes and, although the emphasis is on more experienced skiing, there is a balance of difficulty to satisfy the most mixed of parties. The terrain is majestic and, as only about a third of St Moritz visitors make it onto the snow, the queues for the lifts are never long. Corviglia is the main ski area with a speedy two stage funicular from the centre of the town taking you to the heart of the slopes, with an additional cable car leading to trickier runs and easily accessible off-piste for the more adventurous. Corvatsch – the second area a few miles
The terrain is majestic and lift queues are never long from the main town – is more difficult, but with a top lift height of 3,303 metres, you’ll be almost guaranteed good snow. Head up after noon when it’s had a chance to soften in the sun. The final area, Diavolezza, is 20 kilometres away from the main town and only really has enough terrain to keep you entertained for one day but, with its excellent north facing pistes and incredible vantage point from the top of the cable car, it’s definitely worth the trip.
TRAVEL
If straightforward skiing isn’t enough, head to the groomed Crowland terrain park in Corvatsch, take a crack at the downhill slalom track installed for the World Cup last December or try your hand at night skiing, along the 4.2 kilometre piste down from the middle station on Corvatsch, which is floodlit every Friday night, or at full moon on the slopes of Diavolezza. Alternatively spend down-time sipping a gluhwein in one of the mountain restaurants; it’s still good to know these options are there, you know, if the gluhwein runs out. The winter tourism doesn’t stop at skiing. St Mortiz is often rated as one of the best winter destinations for non-skiers and that doesn’t just mean those who want to go shopping. Back in the 1800s British gentlemen caused uproar in the town as they raced each other down the icy streets, until Badrutt constructed the infamous Cresta Run. The resort is now renowned for its bob sledge activities, from the classic four-man team to the one man ‘skeleton’ where competitors fly head first down the track on what can only be described as a tea tray. Get your adrenalin rush by booking a seat in the ‘taxi bob’, where experienced pilots whoosh you down the track at speeds of up to 135 km/h. Considering all of this (and the fact that the resort has three toboggan runs, including one 4.2 kilometres long and
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‘unsuitable for small children’) you begin to get a picture of a town that has considered every possible way an adult can have fun and has catered for it in spades. It really is a playground but one of substance, not just style.
more information Badrutt’s Palace Hotel +41 (0)81 837 1000; www.badruttspalace.com nightly rates start from approx. £326 per room based on two sharing on a B&B basis (minimum stay of seven nights during high season) Transport to St. Moritz SWiSS offers daily flights to Zürich from London Heathrow and London City. fares from £119 incl. taxes, 23kg luggage allowance and free transport of one pair of skis & boots (www.swiss.com) the Swiss transfer ticket covers one return journey within a month between the airport and any destination. £90 in second class and £144 in first class (www.swisstravelsystem.co.uk)
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D SI DE SIGN GNER GN ER WED EDDI DING DI NG DRE R SS S ES S MAD ADE E TO MEA E SU SUR RE R E IN ITTAL ALY Y 81 1 E bu b ry S tr t reee e e t Lo Lon n d on S W nd W1 1 0 20 2 0 7 90 901 1 90 0 20 lee sp p o sed ed d ig i io o .cc om om
Rooftop Romance:
A Night to Remember award-winning restaurant Babylon is sure to impress that special someone on Valentine’s Day, says NATALIE BOLLU. Book now before it’s too late
TreaTing your ValenTine to a meal at Babylon restaurant, with its scenic views over london’s skyline and mouth-watering cuisine, is certainly a winning way to celebrate Valentine’s. The unbeatable restaurant has created a delicious four-course menu and an intimate setting for a night full of romance, although the menu, happily, doesn’t go overboard on the love theme. Start by enjoying crispy, fried quail eggs with truffled egg yolk dressing and follow with a roasted rump of lamb served with aubergine caviar and chutney. To end the meal, a dark chocolate fondant is on offer to tempt your sweet tooth. after this gastronomic indulgence, you and your sweetheart can continue the night by dancing in the roof gardens Club,
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the first club ever to be awarded Best live Music Venue at The london Club awards 2012. The award was presented to The roof gardens by an esteemed judging panel that included Mark armstrong and the singer Paul young. if, on the other hand, you’d prefer to stay in with your loved one this Valentine’s Day then the roof gardens is also hosting Spanish live acts on Saturday 2 February, where Spanish talents such as ruth lorenzo, once upon a time seen on the X-Factor, will be performing. Make sure you book soon though because Valentine’s is one of the busiest nights of the year. Babylon, 99 Kensington High Street; www.roofgardens.virgin.com
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{
classic dishes, beautifully cooked. cosy, rustic, informal and incurably romantic
6 Old Court Place Kensington Church Street London W8 4PL
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www.maggie-jones.co.uk 020 7937 6462
Drinking &
dining “There is no love sincerer than the love of food” – George Bernard Shaw
Viva Forever Harvey Nichols’ Fifth Floor restaurant has created a contemporary, tongue in cheek twist on the traditional afternoon tea; the launch of the Viva Forever musical has inspired the restaurant to design an offering which not only tantalises the taste buds, but one that is also visually pleasing. The design and flavour of each dessert served individually represents each one of the famous five, so the ginger spice cake has been fittingly made with a ginger and lemon filling complete with a Union Jack; the Baby Spice dessert is a vanilla and raspberry mousse served in a mini baby’s bottle. Classic sandwiches accompany the sweet treats and the cured beef and onion chutney bagel is divine. The teas available include chai latte and spiced winter red; we particularly recommend the latte with its delicious combination of cinnamon and ginger and frothy top. Guests can even take a trip down memory lane and make it a day to remember by booking the afternoon tea together with tickets for the Viva Forever show. £30 per person for Afternoon Tea (£75 for tea with show tickets) Harvey Nichols Fifth Floor Restaurant 109-125 Knightsbridge, SW1X 7RJ 020 7235 5250; www.harveynichols.com/restaurants
Spice it Up Recent winner of the Best Chinese Restaurant at the Asian Curry Awards, Naga certainly lives up to its prestigious accolade in our book. Indeed, every dish, from the starter down to the dessert, is an explosion of flavours, in particular the signature dish Thit Bo Kho: a traditional Vietnamese mild beef curry with Canton style lobster noodles. Talking of explosive, the cocktails are certainly that, in particular the Naga Flaming Lamborghini which is a must-try; however, we should warn you that this is a drink not to be consumed by the faint-of-heart (even our waiter appeared reluctant to serve it to us before asking if we were sure). The chic and contemporary decor impresses as soon as you arrive, with a stand-out glass ceiling so dinner can be consumed beneath the stars, making it the ideal Valentine’s Day hotspot. All in all, the restaurant provides friendly service, unforgettable food and an amazing atmosphere. Naga, 2 Abingdon Road, W8 6AF 020 7795 6060; www.nagarestaurants.co.uk
Rebirth of the Brompton Club The Brompton Club has been revamped into a stylish rock ‘n’ roll hang-out. The refurbishment was inspired by a scene from the hit American show Gossip Girl and aims to give a new lease of life to the club, as the new Upper East-Side-style venue now includes its own pizza restaurant. The completed design is sure to bring new members and an exciting atmosphere. The Brompton Club 92 Old Brompton Road, SW7 5LR 020 7268 5906; www.thebromptonclub.com
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(More)Drinking &
Din in g
Electric Diner Like a phoenix from the flames, the Electric Diner has returned from its fiery demise with a menu and atmosphere reminiscent of New York’s Lower East Side. Open brickwork, distressed white tiles and large claret leather bench seats line the length of the tunnel shaped restaurant. The conspiratorial cosiness is only interrupted by friendly and informed waiters who talk us through the unusual French-American menu which includes fried bologna sandwich and roasted bone marrow with beef cheek marmalade. The raw vegetable, apple, blue cheese and walnut salad was delicate and refreshing and complemented the salty and authentically rustic hash browns. Generous portions and an extensive beer and wine list keeps everyone happy for hours, from groups of hungover partygoers to couples reading the papers at their tables. Combine with a perambulation of Portobello Road’s quirky antique shops. Electric Diner 191 Portobello Road, W11 2ED 020 7908 9696; www.electricdiner.com
new Arrival The family-run Berry Bros. & Rudd has been going for more than 314 years, making it Britain’s oldest wine and spirit merchant. Therefore, there seems no better place for it to house its new bar than inside the historic Royal Albert Hall, which was built over a century ago. The main bar specialises in a variety of Berry Bros. & Rudd drinks including a selection of No. 3 Gin and classic cocktails. A menu to suit everyone is also available and includes savoury snacks such as sharing boards, cured gravadlax and baked Saint-Marcellin, a perfect accompaniment to a drink before or after a show. Berry Bros & Rudd Bar, Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore, SW7 2AP www.royalalberthall.com
The Mexican Santo’s Mexican restaurant on Portobello Road serves authentic Mexican cuisine with a matching lively atmosphere. The restaurant has a popular and highly recommended dinner club, held once a month by a famous guest chef including Jan Ostle, who is head chef at Portobello House, and Angus Henderson who worked alongside Raymond Blanc for many years. The authenticity runs the whole way through the menu with traditional Tapatio tequila even being used in all of their margaritas, ensuring that the true taste of Mexico is present in every aspect. Santo, 299 Portobello Road, W10 5TD 020 8968 4590; www.santovillage.com
Review
Dinner Date
I have never eaten at anywhere quite like Dinner. The food is exceptionally good, although unadventurous diners will struggle to choose if they would usually avoid sweetbreads, marrow bone, devilled kidneys or frog’s legs (and may need to ask the friendly waiters for explanation of items such as mace and Robert sauce). The utterly unique menu has been devised by the never-endingly creative Heston Blumenthal and it takes its inspiration, unusually, from cookbooks from centuries past. Helpfully, the back of the menu lists Sources of Origin; my Salamugundy, for example, comprising an eclectic mix of chicken oysters, salsify, marrow bone and horseradish cream, comes from The Cook’s and Confectioner’s Dictionary by John Nott, published in 1720. The kitchen is glass-walled, allowing us to watch as a small battalion of chefs prepare our meal. The Meat Fruit (c. 1500) is deservedly famous; delicious, smooth chicken liver and foie gras parfait is dipped in mandarin jelly (twice) and then cooled, resulting in realistically dimpled orange peel skin. My guest very much enjoyed the halibut with leaf chicory, sea aster and cockle ketchup while I tested the steak option; a perfectly medium Aberdeen Angus fillet with scrumptious mushroom ketchup. While the savoury options were fantastic, for us the desserts stole the show. Brown bread ice-cream with salted butter caramel is a winning combination and the Tipsy Cake is as popular as the Meat Fruit, with good reason; fluffy and sweet and warm, it’s accompanied by spit roast pineapple. Perfect. Just expect your bill to reflect the calibre of the cuisine. Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, Mandarin Oriental 66 Knightsbridge, SW1X 7LA; 020 7201 3833
Treat your loved one this 14 February with delectable sweets and treats From YoUr Valentine…
Visages D' amoUr
Drink Up
It is often the case that food made by Fortnum & Mason is almost too beautiful to eat with its hand-painted designs and delicious flavouring. This is certainly true of its Valentine offerings. Sweet treats on offer include chocolate rose petals, rose cupcakes and love bird biscuits, which have been decorated with the finest white chocolate and finished with hand-painted flowers. For an added personal touch, heart-shaped cakes and champagne bottles can also be inscribed with a loving message.
Who better to turn to for a sweet treat than the world leader in Belgian chocolates, Godiva, for your chocolate fix this February? In collaboration with artist-designer Jaime Hayon, the chocolatier has introduced five delectable new chocolates in contemporary gift boxes. There are three different designs, each one with a graffiti-inspired pattern which give an original and modern take on traditional Valentine’s Day motifs. Keep the box once you’ve finished with the contents.
As Valentine’s Day fast approaches, Bluebird’s restaurant, a local favourite based on the King’s Road, will be holding a bespoke champagne tasting event. Led by wine experts in the luxurious Gallery room, there will be a selection of canapés alongside the premium assortment of champagnes on offer. This will be followed by a mouth-watering three-course menu in the main restaurant. Keep an eye on the website for further details about the event and visit with a group of friends or a partner.
www.fortnumandmason.com
www.godiva.com
www.bluebird-restaurant.co.uk
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DINE IN THE CLOUDS AT
LU NC H WI TH A V IE W
T HE B ABYLON T ER R ACE
LIVE JAZZ EVERY T UESDAY
2 courses from £20 or 3 courses from £23 Monday - Sunday, 12pm - 2.30pm
Enjoy a glass of your top tipple or a winter cocktail on the heated terrace!
Sit back and enjoy a delicious menu against a backdrop of live music
Contact Us: 0207 368 3993 Email: babylon@roofgardens.virgin.com Online: www.roofgardens.virgin.com Babylon 7th Floor 99 Kensington High Street (Entrance Off Derry Street) London W8 5SA Terms and conditions apply. Subject to availability.
Alexandra Burke
make a Wish
James Brown and guests
Where: Corinthia Hotel, Whitehall WhaT: Chamilia's Make A Wish launch party Who: Jaime Winstone, Henry Conway and James Brown Why: Christmas is on the one hand a time for charity and, on the other, a time for festivities, so Chamilia had our wholehearted support when it decided to put the two together at the launch party for its latest Wish Bead, in partnership with the Make a Wish foundation.
VV Brown
Emily Biggs and guests Greta Bellamacina, Amber Atherton and Amy Molyneaux
Jaime Winstone
rock on
Guests enjoying artworks by Claude Venard
Joanna Hardy
Where: The Cadogan Hotel WhaT: The Cadogan and Façonner Christmas party Who: Joanna Hardy, Rebecca Asseline and Francesca Barrow Why: Design curator Façonner chose the suitable setting of the Cadogan Hotel to host its evening dedicated to celebrating the world of luxury this Christmas, bringing together Callaghan Fine Art and Contemporary Bronze Gallery, Perrier-Jouët, Courvoisier and Art Rocks Contemporary Jewellery under one lavish roof. Jewellery maverick Joanna Hardy sauntered through the crowd advising guests on jewellery while Rebecca Asseline showed off her extensive knowledge of cognac. Julia Marozzi, Francesca Barrow and Kate Innes Courvoisier cognac tasting with Rebecca Asseline
Mark Farhat, Francesca Barrow and Tiziano Giusti Photography: Omar Loi
LONDON LIVING
Photography: Marcus Dawes Emma Wigan and Lady Laura Cathcart
Charles Astor and Sophie Cross
Henry Conway and Vicomte Arthur de Soultrait
Ed Taylor, Olivia Grant and Frans von Chrismar
Vicomte Arthur de Soultrait
A-GAME WhErE: Vicomte A, King's Road WhAT: Flagship store launch party WhO: Arthur de Soultrait, Henry Conway, James Harvey-Kelly and Eleanor Cooper
Olivia Grant and Orlando Hamilton Why: It would have been hard to miss the Vicomte A store on the King's Road on 13 December, not just because of its bright pink exterior, but because this was the night that it celebrated its recent launch. VIP guests in attendance drank bubbles and did some late-night shopping before founder Vicomte Arthur de Soultrait gathered up his guests and took them to the Brompton Club, joining close friend Pippa Middleton to dance the night away.
Nina Frost and Frans von Chrismar
Orlando Hamilton
Oliver Lis and Victoria Pattinson Alex Marx
Victoria Pattinson and Sophie Cross
Clemence Darbon
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Max Barnes
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Photography: Nick Harvey and Stephane Feuger Hugh Grant and Rose Uniacke
David Heyman and Rose Uniacke
Nick Rhodes and Suvi Nefero
Shingai Shoniwa
Sophie Sumner
Home alone WHere: Jo Malone London, Gloucester Place WHe WHaT: Jo Malone Festive Party WHo: Charlotte Stockdale, Marc Newson, WH
Florence Brudenell-Bruce and friend
Marc Newson and Charlotte Stockdale
Rose Uniacke, David Heyman and Hugh Grant WHy: To celebrate the opening of its new WH townhouse, Jo Malone London went all out as guests on arrival were led through the transformed 18th century mansion house, which had been decorated with an archway of wreaths, and into a magical scene created by British set designer Andy Hillman.
Angela Scanlon
David Heyman and Rose Uniacke
Tallulah Harlech
Suki Waterhouse
Yasmin Mills
LONDON LIVING Eugenie Niarchos, Benjamin Khalili and Noor Fares
Noor and Mrs Fares and Camilla Al Fayed
Tatiana Santo Domingo, Noor Fares, Eugenie Niarchos and Elisabeth von Thurn und Taxis
Florrie Arnold
Eugenie Niarchos and Noor Fares
GALACTIC Where: Shizaru, 112 Mount Street WhAT: Galactic Garden pop up launch WhO: Noor Fares, Eugenie Niarchos, Camilla Al Fayed,
Alexia Niedzielski, Saloni Lodha and Julia Restoin Roitfeld
Julia Restoin Roitfeld, Elizabeth Von Guttman, Debonaire von Bismarck, Saloni Lodha, Alexia Niedzielski, Katharina and Nina Flohr Why: Noor Fares and Eugenie Niarchos hosted an intimate cocktail party to celebrate the launch of a special concept and Pop Up Galactic Garden. The theme was Indian and so guests enjoyed spiced tofu parcels and hummus curry leaves along with traditional sounds of the tabla and sitar.
Amal Fashanu and Percy Parker
Hofit Golan
Ellen von Unwerth and Immodesty Blaize Paul Solomons, Ellen von Unwerth and Sascha Lilic Suki Waterhouse
SNOW QUeeN
Stephen Jones, Lisa Aldridge and Howard Aldridge
Where: Gallery Different, 14 Percy Street WhAT: The Snow Queen Vodka 2013 calendar, shot by Ellen von Unwerth, launch party
WhO: Ellen Von Unwerth, Sinitta and Suki Waterhouse Why: Snow Queen Vodka was proud to launch its 2013 calendar shot by world-renowned photographer Ellen von Unwerth. Snow Queen Vodka cocktails mixed by Apartment 58’s mixologists, including the Snow Queen and the Ellen, flowed and sushi Hi Sushi canapés were in ample supply.
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The Concierge What is it you require, sir? How may I help, madam? The Concierge is here to help with every need, whim or wish, however great or small AppArel
Knightsbridge Watches
Beauty salons anD spas
Bespoke Dressmaker
88 Brompton Road, SW3 1ER 08000 337 333 www.knightsbridgewatcheslondon.com
Babylon at Kensington Roof Gardens
Vagheggi Boutique Clinic
99 Kensington High Street W8 5SA 020 7368 3993 www.roofgardens.virgin.com
Mary Treacy 12 Rickett Street, Fulham SW6 1RU 020 7385 3398 www.marytreacydesigns.co.uk
repairs anD Cleaning Jeeves of Belgravia 123 Fulham Road, SW3 6RT 020 7589 9229 www.jeevesofbelgravia.co.uk
Vintage watCh sellers Watches of Knightsbridge
The Chelsea Day Spa
Bibendum
64 Knightsbridge, SW1X 7JF 020 7590 3034 www.watchesofknightsbridge.com
69a King’s Road, SW3 4NX 020 7351 0911 www.thechelseadayspa.co.uk
81 Fulham Road, SW3 6RD 020 7581 5817 www.bibendum.co.uk
For the home
Urban Retreat at Harrods
Chelsea Brasserie
Furniture anD soFt Furnishings
87-135 Brompton Road SW1X 7XL 020 7893 8333 www.urbanretreat.co.uk
7-12 Sloane Square SW1W 8EG 020 7881 5999 www.chelsea-brasserie.co.uk
Katherine Pooley Sloane Tailors & Dry Cleaners 69 Lower Sloane Street SW1W 8DA 020 7824 8644 www.sloanetailorsanddrycleaners.co.uk
shoes reheeleD Chelsea Green Shoe Repairs 31 Elystan Street, SW3 3NT 020 7584 0776
precious pieces Jewellery Valuation
205 King’s Road, SW3 5ED 020 7352 1113 www.vagheggi.co.uk
160 Walton Street, SW3 2JL 020 7584 3223 www.katherinepooley.co.uk
meDiCal anD Dental serViCes
Louise Bradley
Chelsea Consulting Rooms
Kimbolton Court 117b Fulham Road, SW3 6RL 020 7589 1442 www.louisebradley.co.uk
2 Lower Sloane Street, SW1W 8BJ 020 7763 9100 www.chelseaconsultingrooms.com
Gaucho Medicare Français
Nina Campbell 9 Walton Street, SW3 2JD 020 7225 1011 www.ninacampbell.com
3 Harrington Gardens, SW7 4JJ 020 7370 4999 www.medicare-francais.co.uk
Bourbon Hanby
OKA
151 Sydney Street, SW3 6NT 020 7352 2106 www.bourbonhanby.com
103 Lancaster Road, W11 1QN 020 7792 1425 www.okadirect.com
Chelsea Bridge Road SW1W 8RH 020 7730 7733 www.thelisterhospital.com
Tiffany & Co.
Stepevi
The Beresford Clinic
145 Sloane Street, SW1X 9BL 020 7409 2790 www.tiffany.co.uk
274 King’s Road, SW3 5AW 020 7376 7574 www.stepevi.co.uk
2 Lower Grosvenor Place SW1W 0EJ 020 7821 9411 www.drberesford.co.uk
Jewellery repair
pAmpering & Wellbeing
Hawkes and Son
hairDressers Hari’s
89 Sloane Avenue, SW3 3DX 020 7584 9901 www.gauchorestaurants.co.uk
Maroush The Lister Hospital
50-52 Walton Street, SW3 1RB 020 7589 2523 www.hawkesandson.com
Daphne’s 110-112 Draycott Avenue SW3 3AE 020 7589 4257 www.daphnes-restaurant.co.uk
Cadogan Street Dental Office 47 Cadogan Street, SW3 2QJ 020 7581 0811
hAute cuisine
watCh repair
305 Brompton Road, SW3 2DY 020 7581 5211 www.harissalon.com
The Watch Gallery
Richard Ward
129 Fulham Road, SW3 6RT 020 7581 3239 www.thewatchgallery.co.uk
82 Duke of York Square, SW3 4LY 020 7730 1222 www.richardward.com
Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park 66 Knightsbridge, SW1X 7LA 020 7201 3899 www.barboulud.com
Dining
38 Beauchamp Place, SW3 1NU 020 7581 5434 www.maroush.com
Restaurant Gordon Ramsay 68 Royal Hospital Road SW3 4HP 020 7352 4441 www.gordonramsay.com
Scalini 1-3 Walton Street, SW3 2JD 020 7225 2301 www.scalinionline.com
Umami 100 Cromwell Road, SW7 4ER 020 7341 2321 www.umamilondon.co.uk
Bar Boulud Zuma 5 Raphael Street, SW7 1DL 020 7584 1010 www.zumarestaurant.com
the CONCIeRGe
Delicatessens La Bottega 14 Gloucester Road, SW7 4RB 020 7581 6980 www.labottega65.com
Luigi’s Delicatessen 349 Fulham Road, SW10 9TW 020 7352 7739 www.luigismailorder.com
Chelsea Arts Club
Sunseeker
143 Old Church Street SW3 6EB 020 7376 3311 www.chelseaartsclub.com
36 Davies Street W1K 4NF 020 7355 0980 www.sunseekerlondon.com
Royal Thames Yacht Club
chauffeurs
60 Knightsbridge, SW1X 7LF 020 7235 2121 www.www.royalthames.com
Executive Cars
pets Mungo & Maud 79 Elizabeth Street, SW1W 9PJ www.mungoandmaud.com 020 7022 1207
Pet Pavilion 020 3170 5838 www.executive-cars-london.com
60 Gloucester Road, SW7 4QT 020 7584 8848 www.petpavilion.co.uk
The Sloane Club Partridges 2-5 Duke of York Square, SW3 4LY 020 7730 7102 www.partridges.co.uk
Lower Sloane Street SW1W 8BS 020 7730 9131 www.sloaneclub.co.uk
chocolatiers
air, land & sea
Crown Security Chauffeurs 0845 901 1471 www.crown-chauffeurs.co.uk
89 Lower Sloane Street SW1W 8DA 0845 270 6996 www.artisanduchocolat.com
The Personal Chef
couriers
59 Ritherton Road, SW17 8QE 020 7871 1080 www.thepersonalchef.co.uk
Selena Courier Service Avolus Ltd 38 Lombard Road SW11 3RP 020 7978 6506 www.avolus.com
27 Eardley Crescent, SW5 9JS 020 7912 0062 www.selenacourier.co.uk
Drinking
London Battersea Heliport
Aplomb Translations
Bridges Wharf, Battersea SW11 3BE 0844 884 8660 www.batterseahelicopter.com
74 Chancery Lane WC2A 1AD 020 7831 9444 www.aplombonline.com
Boujis
luxury car services
43 Thurloe Street, SW7 2LQ 020 7584 2000 www.boujis.com
Belgravia Garage
The Cadogan Arms 298 King’s Road, SW3 5UG 020 7352 6500 www.thecadoganarmschelsea.com
Juju 316-318 King’s Road, SW3 5UH 020 7351 5998 www.jujulondon.com
1 Eaton Mews West Belgravia, SW1W 9ET 020 7235 9900 www.belgraviagarage.com
VIP Car Hire Queen Elizabeth Street SE1 2JE 0870 200 4949 www.vipservices.co.uk
preMiuM coffee anD cigars Tomtom Cigars and Coffee
translators
William Curley 198 Ebury Street, SW1W 8UN 020 7730 5522 www.williamcurley.co.uk
private chef
Business affairs
helicopter charter L’Artisan Du Chocolat
little luxuries
Computer and Technology Help Richard Darsa 78 Cadogan Place, SW1X 9RP 07768 200 551 richard@darsa.net
Housekeeping & family chilDcare
63 Elizabeth Street, SW1W 9PP 020 7730 1790 www.tomtom.co.uk
fine Wine Handford Fine Wines 105 Old Brompton Road, SW7 3LE 020 7589 6113 www.handford.net Florists
floWers Gilding the Lily Old Brompton Road, SW7 2NB 020 7584 1950 www.gildingthelilysw7.co.uk
Regency Nannies & Nurses
Only Roses
50 Hans Crescent, SW1X 0NA 020 7225 1055 www.regencynannies.com
257 Old Brompton Road, SW5 9HP 020 7373 9595 www.only-roses.com
housekeeping
leather gooDs anD accessories
yacht charter/ sale MeMbers clubs Princess Yachts Beaufort House 354 Kings Road, SW3 5UZ 020 7352 2828 www.beauforthousechelsea.co.uk
the KENSINGTON & CHELSEA magazine
64 Grosvenor Street W1K 3JH 020 7499 5050 www.princess.co.uk
St. Anne’s Housekeeping
Pickett
58 Kenway Road, SW5 0RA 020 7370 1359 www.stanneshousekeeping.com
149 Sloane Street, SW1X 9BZ 020 7823 5638 www.pickett.co.uk
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www.vgnewtrend.it
ph. Andrea Pancino C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
MY
K
VG Studio at
inspirations vision
style
design
www.idesign-int.com info@inspirationsoftickhill.co.uk Tel: 01302 760040
Kensington
& Chelsea P R O P E RT Y
showcasing the
finest hoMes & PRoPeRtY fRoM the best estate agents
Market Comment London’s place in the global market
Image courtesy of Winkworth
PROPERTY
Featured estate agents
CHeLsea 440 King’s rd, sW10 0LH 020 7351 2383 www.aylesford.com
PIMLICO & WestMInster 50 Belgrave rd sW1V 1rQ 020 7717 5315 sLOane sQuare 7 Lower sloane st sW1W 8aH 020 7717 5317
nOttIng HILL 298 Westbourne grove W11 2Ps 020 7229 0229 sOutH KensIngtOn 157 gloucester rd, sW7 4tH 020 7871 4111
CHeLsea 62-64 Fulham rd, sW3 6HH 020 7808 8540 BeLgraVIa 1 Motcomb st, sW1X 8JX 020 7235 8861
BaYsWater 37 alexander st, W2 5nu 020 7727 1717
CHeLsea 2 Cale st, sW3 3Qu 020 7581 5011
nOttIng HILL 17 Kensington Park rd W11 2eu 020 7727 1717
www.henryandjames.co.uk
MaYFaIr 53 davies st, W1K 5JH 020 3284 1888
KensIngtOn 8 Hornton st, W8 4nW 020 7937 9371 KnIgHtsBrIdge 168 Brompton rd, sW3 1HW 020 7584 2044 nOttIng HILL 301 Westbourne grove W11 2Qa 020 7717 5311 PaddIngtOn 4c Praed st, W2 1JX 020 7717 5313
BeLgraVIa 82-83 Chester square sW1W 9JH 020 7881 7722 CHeLsea 352a King’s rd, sW3 5uu 020 7349 4300 FuLHaM 203 new King’s rd sW6 4sr 020 7751 2400 KensIngtOn 54-56 Kensington Church st, W8 4dB 020 7938 4311 KnIgHtsBrIdge 60 sloane ave, sW3 3dd 020 7591 8600
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MarBLe arCH 29-31 edgware rd, W2 2Je 020 7724 3100
KensIngtOn 103 Kensington Church st W8 7Ln 020 7938 3666 KnIgHtsBrIdge 66 sloane st, sW1X 9sH 020 7235 9959 nOttIng HILL 303 Westbourne grove W11 2Qa 020 7221 1111 www.struttandparker.com
www.plazaestates.co.uk www.sothebysrealty.co.uk
sOutH KensIngtOn 4-5 Kynance Place, sW7 4Qs 020 7590 9955 www.lurotbrand.co.uk
www.john-taylor.co.uk
HaMPtOns COuntrY HOuse
8 Chertsey st, surrey gu1 4Hd 01483 339740
MaYFaIr 26a Conduit st, W1s 2XY 020 7495 9580
KnIgHtsBrIdge 51 Beauchamp Place sW3 1nY 020 7581 7646
West KensIngtOn 135 Hammersmith rd W14 0QL 020 7602 6022
HYde ParK 37-41 sussex Place, W2 2tH 020 7479 1999
www.domusnova.com
CHeLsea 134 Fulham rd, sW10 9PY 020 7717 5291
www.messilaresidential.com
www.knightfrank.co.uk
www.hamptons.co.uk nOttIng HILL 10 Lambton Place, W11 2sH 020 7221 1117 www.crayson.com
West CHeLsea 140 Fulham rd, sW10 9PY 020 7373 1010
KnIgHtsBrIdge 20 Montpelier st sW7 1Hd 020 7589 4452
CHeLsea rawlings House 2a Milner st, sW3 2Pu 020 7591 5570 HOLLand ParK 57 norland square, W11 4QJ 020 7605 6890 KensIngtOn 9 Kensington Church st W8 4LF 020 7368 4450 nOrtH KensIngtOn 136 Lancaster rd W11 1Qu 020 7313 8350 nOttIng HILL 2-6 Kensington Park rd W11 3Bu 020 7313 2890 www.marshandparsons.co.uk
CHeLsea 196-200 Fulham rd sW10 9Pn 020 7578 9000
www.tatesestates.co.uk
KensIngtOn 145 Kensington Church st, W8 7LP 020 7535 3300
KnIgHtsBrIdge 174 Brompton rd, sW3 1HP 020 7306 1610
KnIgHtsBrIdge 188 Brompton rd, sW3 1HQ 020 7581 5234
www.waellis.co.uk
nOttIng HILL 168 Westbourne grove W11 2rW 020 7727 5750
KensIngtOn 118 Kensington Church st W8 4BH 020 7727 1500
sLOane street 139 sloane st, sW1X 9aY 020 7730 0822
KnIgHtsBrIdge 289 Brompton rd, sW3 2dY 020 7589 6616
www.savills.co.uk
nOttIng HILL 178 Westbourne grove W11 2rH 020 7727 3227
CHeLsea 43 Cadogan st, sW3 2Pr 020 7225 3866
sOutH KensIngtOn 123a gloucester rd sW7 4te 020 7373 5052 www.winkworth.co.uk
the KENSINGTON & CHELSEA magazine
PROPERTY
Market Comment Gráinne Gilmore, head of uK residential research at Knight Frank, discusses how London’s prime property prices compare with those across the globe
House prices in prime central London rose by nearly 9 per cent last year, far outperforming the rest of the uK. prices in the prime country market slipped by 3.8 per cent while average prices across the whole of the uK remained broadly stable. But how does the performance of prime property in London compare to other markets around the world? The Knight Frank Global cities index, which compares the price performance of prime markets in key global destinations, shows that London’s luxury housing market is among the top performers, but that the pace of growth seen in 2012 pales a little when compared to the front-runners. on a like for like basis, showing growth in the year to the end of september 2012, London’s growth is overshadowed by that in Jakarta, Dubai, Miami and nairobi, which all saw prices rise by more than 17 per cent. Dubai, nairobi and Miami, like London, are seen as safe-haven investment locations for individuals looking to diversify their assets and this has played a part in the price performance seen through 2012. Kate everett-Allen, international residential research analyst at Knight
Frank, said: “in the wake of the Arab spring, Dubai has been seen as a relatively safe haven for buyers from the Middle east and north Africa, while Venezuelan and Brazilian investors have looked to Miami to limit their exposure to domestic, political and economic volatility.” But not all prime markets benefitted from the global economic uncertainty, as local political and fiscal changes took their toll on prices. “Asia’s prime markets are entering a period of more moderate growth due in part to the regulatory measures aimed at cooling prices and improving domestic affordability,” Ms. everett-Allen said. prices in Hong Kong rose 5.1 per cent in the year to the end of september 2012, while singapore prices were up just 0.8 per cent on the year. Luxury property prices in shanghai declined by 4.5 per cent. other cities where prices fell on an annual basis include paris, with a decline of 4.5 per cent, sydney, with a decline of 5.9 per cent and rome, where prices are down nearly 15 per cent year on year. But James price, of Knight Frank’s international residential development team, said: “While some of the more traditional prime ‘second-home’ markets have recorded negative movement, this should not disguise their long-term popularity and strength. instead, it suggests a cooling from previous higher levels.” For more information about UK and international property market trends, visit www.globalbriefing.knightfrank.com
Annual price changes in international prime markets 25.0% 20.0% 15.0% 10.0% 5.0% 0.0% -5.0% -10.0% -15.0% 2010 Q4
2011 Q1
2011 Q2
London
Singapore
Paris
Shanghai
2011 Q3
2011 Q4
2012 Q1
2012 Q2
2012 Q3
Source: Knight Frank Residential Research Property for sale, Holland Villas Road, available through Knight Frank Kensington (020 7938 4311)
the KENSINGTON & CHELSEA magazine
133
Knight Frank
Limerston Street, Chelsea SW10
Stunning three bedroom house with patio garden This house is extremely light and spacious, with excellent entertaining space as well as fantastic views both to the front and the rear. Master bedroom with en suite bathroom, 2 further bedrooms, shower room, reception room, dining/family room, kitchen, utility room, study area, cloakroom, terrace, garden. Approximately 179 sq m (1,934 sq ft) Freehold Guide Price: ÂŁ3,250,000 (CHL100152)
KnightFrank.co.uk/Chelsea chelsea@knightfrank.com 020 3641 5903
Knight Frank
Elm Park Road, Chelsea SW3 Low built house with parking
A red brick low built house which is immaculately presented throughout and also has off street parking and a beautiful south facing garden. Master bedroom with bathroom en suite, 2 further bedrooms, bathroom, reception room, dining room, kitchen, study/sitting room, cloakroom, patio garden, off-street parking. Approximately 221 sq m (2,383 sq ft) Freehold Guide Price: ÂŁ5,950,000 (CHL120243)
KnightFrank.co.uk/Chelsea chelsea@knightfrank.com 020 3641 5903
Knight Frank
Pelham Crescent, Knightsbridge SW7 Immaculate Knightsbridge house
An impressive white stucco fronted house in one of Knightsbridge’s finest addresses with a stunning rear garden and access to communal gardens. Master bedroom suite, 4 further bedrooms, 3 further bathrooms, dressing room/bedroom 4, kitchen, dining room, reception room, first floor balcony. Approximately 314 sq m (3,385 sq ft) Freehold (SLA120261)
KnightFrank.co.uk/Knightsbridge knightsbridge@knightfrank.com 020 3641 5913 JSA: D.S.Churchill enquiries@dschurchill.com 020 7629 7563
Knight Frank
Lansdowne Crescent, Notting Hill W11 Spectacular lateral living
A stunningly designed lateral three bedroom apartment situated within this landmark building. Finished to an extremely high standard and decorated in a contempory style. 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms (2 en suite), reception room, kitchen, dining area, utility room, communal garden, patio and patio garden. Approximately 184 sq m (1,981 sq ft) Share of freehold Guide Price: ÂŁ3,000,000 (NGH120195)
KnightFrank.co.uk/Notting Hill nottinghill@knightfrank.com 020 7229 0229
Knight Frank
Walton Street, Knightsbridge SW3 Walton Street, Knightsbridge SW3 Walton Street, Knightsbridge SW3 Walton Street, Knightsbridge SW3 Three bedroom freehold house Threebedroom bedroom freehold house freehold house ThreeThree bedroom freehold house
AAwell designed, non basement house situated in ainprime position withwith views over over well designed, non basement house a prime position views AEgerton well designed, non basement house situated in aposition prime position with views over A well designed, non basement house situated insituated a prime with views over Terrace gardens. Master bedroom suite with balcony, 2 further bedrooms, Egerton Terrace gardens. Master bedroom suite with 2 further bedrooms, Terrace gardens. Master bedroom suite with balcony, further bedrooms, Egerton Egerton Terrace gardens. Master suite with balcony, 2balcony, further bedrooms, family bathroom, kitchen,bedroom reception room, study, galleried area,2cloakroom, second family bathroom, kitchen, reception room, study, galleried area, second family bathroom, kitchen, reception room, study, area, family bathroom, kitchen, reception room, study, galleried area, cloakroom, second second balcony, private garden, garage. Approximately 116galleried sq m (1,240 sqcloakroom, ft)cloakroom, balcony, private garden, garage. Approximately 116 m (1,240 private garden, garage. Approximately sqsq msq (1,240 ft)ft) balcony,balcony, private garden, garage. Approximately 116 sq m116 (1,240 ft) sqsq Freehold Freehold FreeholdFreehold Guide price: £3,250,000 Guide price: £3,250,000 Guide price: £3,250,000 Guide price: £3,250,000 (BGV120166)
(BGV120166) (BGV120166)(BGV120166)
KnightFrank.co.uk/Knightsbridge KnightFrank.co.uk/Knightsbridge KnightFrank.co.uk/Knightsbridge KnightFrank.co.uk/Knightsbridge knightsbridge@knightfrank.com knightsbridge@knightfrank.com knightsbridge@knightfrank.com knightsbridge@knightfrank.com 020 3641 5913 020 3641 5913 020 3641 5913 020 3641 5913 KnightFrank.co.uk/Belgravia KnightFrank.co.uk/Belgravia KnightFrank.co.uk/Belgravia KnightFrank.co.uk/Belgravia belgravia@knightfrank.com belgravia@knightfrank.com belgravia@knightfrank.com belgravia@knightfrank.com 020 3463 0460 020 3463 0460 020 3463 0460 020 3463 0460
Knight Frank
Queen’s Gate Gardens, South Kensington SW7 Spacious ground floor flat with communal garden
A superb apartment presented in fabulous order throughout and located on the ground floor of a well maintained period building. Master bedroom with en suite shower room, second bedroom with en suite shower room, bedroom 3, bathroom, double reception room, kitchen, utility room, communal garden. Approximately 184 sq m (1,987 sq ft) Share of freehold Guide Price: ÂŁ3,850,000 (CHL120054)
KnightFrank.co.uk/South-Kensington southkensington@knightfrank.com 020 3641 6122
Knight Frank
Bedford Gardens, Kensington W8 Spacious family house on sought after road
This delightful property is perfect for entertaining, boasting two large reception rooms and a private garden, as well as an abundance of natural light and high ceilings throughout. 4 bedrooms with storage, 3 bathrooms, double reception room, kitchen, family room, dining room, utility room, garden. Approximately 221 sq m (2,380 sq ft) Available unfurnished Guide price: ÂŁ2,500 per week (KEQ147526)
KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings kens@knightfrank.com 020 3641 7308
Knight Frank
One Hyde Park, Knightsbridge SW1X
Exceptional apartment in unique Knightsbridge development The apartment enjoys spectacular south facing views over Knightsbridge. 3 double bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, reception room with balcony, kitchen, dining room, underground parking space, wine cellar and extensive amenities including 24 hour concierge, Mandarin Oriental service and exclusive leisure/spa services. Approximately 325 sq m (3,500 sq ft) Available furnished Guide price: ÂŁ16,500 per week
(KEQ147526)
KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings knightsbridgelettings@knightfrank.com 020 3641 6019
Knight Frank
Holland Park Avenue, Holland Park W11
Pembridge Square, Notting Hill W2
Unique penthouse in the centre of Holland Park boasting wooden beams throughout. 2 bedrooms, modern bathroom, large reception room, open plan kitchen. Approximately 96 sq m (1,041 sq ft)
A light and stylish second floor flat with excellent space and access to communal gardens. Double bedroom, bathroom, double reception room, kitchen. Approximately 62 sq m (666 sq ft)
Available unfurnished
Available furnished
Guide Price: £975 per week
Guide Price: £675 per week
KnightFrank.co.uk/Notting Hill 020 7985 9990 nottinghilllettings@knightfrank.com
KnightFrank.co.uk/Notting Hill 020 7985 9990 nottinghilllettings@knightfrank.com
Buckingham Court, Notting Hilll W11
Chepstow Villas, Notting Hill W11
Spacious two bedroom apartment with great views overlooking Ladbroke Square Gardens. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, reception room, kitchen, porter, access to communal gardens. Approximately 119 sq m (1,283 sq ft)
A stunning second floor flat situated in one of Notting Hill’s prime streets. Double bedroom, study/second bedroom, bathroom with separate shower, reception room, fully fitted kitchen. Appoximately 70 sq m (760 sq ft)
Available unfurnished
Available furnished
Guide Price: £900 per week
Guide Price: £845 per week
KnightFrank.co.uk/Notting Hill 020 7985 9990 nottinghilllettings@knightfrank.com
KnightFrank.co.uk/Notting Hill 020 7985 9990 nottinghilllettings@knightfrank.com
Knight Frank
One New Year resolution we can help you keep: Move. The New Year market is here. Opportunities are out there. So, if you’re considering a move, Savills can provide a powerful mix of local knowledge, national relevance and global scale. Buying, selling, renting or letting, talk to Savills now.
savills.co.uk
Start your property search here and visit savills.co.uk to see a greater selection of properties for sale and to rent.
for sale
for sale
for sale
Wycombe Square, W8 Stunning house in secure development with parking and lift Guide £10.5 million
Portland Road, W11 5 bedroom family house with garden in this charming Holland Park street Asking £4.5 million
Redcliffe Mews, SW10 Newly remodelled freehold house, converted to an extremely high standard Guide £3.95 million
for sale
for sale
for sale
De Vere Gardens, W8 A magnificent apartment in a grand period building with exceptional volume Asking £3.75 million
Holland Park Mews, W11 Exceptional mews house in excellent condition Excess £2.95 million
Cathcart Road, SW10 Beautiful first floor two bedroom flat with balcony Guide £1.85 million
to let
to let
to let
Holland Park Road, W14 A wonderful family home with a pretty paved garden Asking £1,900 per week
Gilston Road, SW10 A completely re-built house, finished to an exacting standard Guide £1,750 per week
St Stephens Gardens, W2 A lovely two bedroom penthouse apartment in Notting Hill Guide £850 per week
To discuss your property requirements further, call our team on 020 7877 4640
savills.co.uk
1 A BEAUTIFULLY REDESIGNED AND REFURBISHED HOUSE old brompton road, sw5 Entrance hall ø reception room with bar area ø cinema area ø study ø open-plan kitchen with dining area ø master bedroom suite ø 2nd bedroom suite ø guest cloakroom ø utility room ø spa including steam room and shower ø balcony ø 281 sq m (3,021 sq ft) ø EPC rating = C Guide £2.5 million Leasehold, approximately 97 years remaining
Savills Chelsea Henry Reid hreid@savills.com
020 7578 9000
savills.co.uk
1 GRADE II LISTED DETACHED VILLA IN NEED OF COMPLETE MODERNISATION holland park, w11 On the instruction of the Hellenic Republic Asset Development Fund (HRADF) ø 8 reception rooms ø dining room ø 2 studies ø 2 kitchens ø 9 bedrooms ø 5 bath/shower rooms ø lift access ø 136' x 49' garden ø 810 sq m (8,721 sq ft) ø EPC rating = E Price on application Freehold
Savills Notting Hill Oliver Lurot olurot@savills.com
020 7727 5750
savills.co.uk
1 SPECTACULAR CEILING HEIGHTS AND CLOSE TO KENSINGTON GARDENS de vere gardens, w8 Reception room ø kitchen ø master bedroom suite with study/bedroom 3 ø guest bedroom suite ø guest cloakroom ø 188 sq m (2,020 sq ft) ø EPC rating = C
Savills Kensington
Hamptons International
Stephen Holmes sholmes@savills.com
James Rideout rideoutj@hamptons-int.com
020 7535 3300
020 7937 9371
Guide £3.75 million Leasehold, a new 165 year lease will be included in the sale
savills.co.uk
1 BREATHTAKING APARTMENT IN A SPECTACULAR ITALIANATE VILLA holland park, w11 Double reception room ø dining room ø study ø media/entertainment room ø kitchen/breakfast room ø 5 bedroom suites ø gymnasium with shower and sauna ø utility room ø wine store ø 49ft wide garden ø 476 sq m (5,128 sq ft) ø EPC rating = D
Savills Kensington
Knight Frank
Stephen Holmes sholmes@savills.com
Sami Robertson Sami.robertson@knightfrank.com
020 7535 3300
020 7938 4311
Guide £12 million Leasehold, approximately 999 years remaining plus Share of Freehold
savills.co.uk
1 CLASSIC FIRST FLOOR APARTMENT IN PRIME HOLLAND PARK STUCCO VILLA holland park, w11 Entrance hall ø reception room ø dining room ø kitchen ø 2 bedroom suites ø further shower room ø garage available by separate negotiation ø 129 sq m (1,392 sq ft) ø EPC rating = D Asking £2.75 million Leasehold, approximately 100 years remaining
Savills Kensington
Anthony Sharp
Tamara McGoldrick tmcgoldrick@savills.com
Matthew Legge matthew@anthony-sharp.com
020 7535 3300
020 7243 8398
savills.co.uk
1 STUNNING MAISONETTE WITH DIRECT ACCESS TO GARDENS cresswell gardens, sw5 Drawing room ø dining room ø kitchen ø master bedroom suite with study ø 2 further bedroom suites ø guest cloakroom ø direct access to communal gardens ø private terrace ø 170 sq m (1,834 sq ft) ø EPC rating = D Guide £3.35 million Leasehold, plus Share of Freehold
Savills Chelsea
Maskells
Nicola Ridley nridley@savills.com
Lucy Yorke-Long lucy@maskells.co.uk
020 7578 9000
020 7581 2216
savills.co.uk
1 DUPLEX PERIOD CONVERSION IN THE HEART OF KENSINGTON stafford terrace, w8 2 bedrooms ø double reception room ø study ø open plan kitchen ø 2 bathrooms ø utility room ø private south-facing garden ø 174 sq m (1,874 sq ft) ø EPC rating = D
£1,850 per week Unfurnished
Savills Kensington Isabel Lacey ilacey@savills.com
020 7535 3333
savills.co.uk
1 FAMILY HOUSE IN A PICTURESQUE LOCATION holland street, w8 6 bedrooms ø 3 reception rooms ø kitchen/breakfast room ø dressing room ø 3 bathrooms ø guest cloakroom ø utility area ø balcony ø sauna ø garden ø 271 sq m (2,917 sq ft) ø EPC rating = D
£3,250 per week Unfurnished
Savills Kensington Monika Scott mkscott@savills.com
020 7535 3333
Hamptons Chelsea
Sales. 0207 835 1444 chelsea@hamptons-int.com
Harcourt Terrace, SW10 A beautifully presented and recently refurbished two bedroom raised ground floor apartment, forming part of this attractive stucco fronted period building. With a stunning reception room, smart fully fitted kitchen/breakfast room, two double bedrooms, high ceilings and large windows, this property has a huge amount to offer. Hamptons Chelsea 0207 835 1444 chelsea@hamptons-int.com
£1,450,000 Share of Freehold Stunning location Attractive period building 17’3 reception room Raised ground floor Master bedroom with en-suite shower room Share of freehold
Hamptons Kensington
Sales. 020 7937 9371 kensington@hamptons-int.com
Melbury Road, W14 A delightful three bedroom end of terrace townhouse (1662 sq ft) presented in good condition. The property offers great family accommodation with a ground floor kitchen and dining area leading onto a small patio garden. In addition to the integral garage there is off street parking. Hamptons Kensington 020 7937 9371 kensington@hamptons-int.com
ÂŁ2,550,000 Freehold Master Bedroom with Ensuite Bathroom Dressing Room Reception Room Kitchen Breakfast Room Patio Garage
Hamptons Knightsbridge
Sales. 020 7717 5461 knightsbridge@hamptons-int.com
Cranmer Court, SW3 A wonderfully light and well presented two bedroom fifth floor apartment in this very well located mansion block. The property is accessed via a lift and offers far reaching south-westerly views over the quiet inner courtyard of Cranmer Court.
Hamptons Knightsbridge 020 7717 5461 knightsbridge@hamptons-int.com
ÂŁ1,625,000 Share of Freehold Reception room Kitchen 2 bedrooms Bathroom Guest cloakroom Lift
Hamptons Notting Hill
Sales. 0207 034 0404 nottinghill@hamptons-int.com
Colville Terrace, W11 Situated on the ground and raised ground floors of a beautifully refurbished building. This duplex flat has a great size living space with sleek open-plan kitchen and landscaped garden, its own private entrance as well as access through the main entrance. The living room is a fantastic bright wide space, with bi-folding French doors leading to the garden. Hamptons Notting Hill 0207 034 0404 nottinghill@hamptons-int.com
ÂŁ2,500,000 Leasehold Reception Room Three Bedrooms Three Bathrooms (one en suite) Roof-terrace Garden Close to Portobello Road
Hamptons Chelsea
Lettings. 020 7370 0774 chelsealettings@hamptons-int.com
Redcliffe Road, SW10 A stunning house located on a very quiet desirable street in the heart of Chelsea. The property is spread over four floors and includes 4 bedrooms and a private garden. Having been completely redecorated the house is ideal for a family looking for a home in Central London.
Hamptons Chelsea 020 7370 0774 chelsealettings@hamptons-int.com
ÂŁ2,500 per week Unfurnished Beautiful period features Spacious living space Stunning location Lots of natural light Four bedrooms Private garden
Hamptons Kensington
Lettings. 020 7717 5459 kensingtonlettings@hamptons-int.com
Phillimore Court, W8 A spacious first floor apartment in this superb Kensington mansion block. The flat comprises 4 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, modern kitchen and bright reception room. The flat is contemporary in style, with wooden floors throughout. The building benefits from a beautiful communal roof terrace, lift and porter. Hamptons Kensington 020 7717 5459 kensingtonlettings@hamptons-int.com
ÂŁ1,100 per week Unfurnished 4 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms Lift Porter Communal Roof Terrace Central Location
Hamptons Knightsbridge
Lettings. 020 7717 5463 knightsbridgelettings@hamptons-int.com
Princes Gate, SW7 Stunning south facing penthouse apartment, featuring nearly 3000 square feet of lateral space. The property has ample entertaining space with a double reception room and a grand separate dining room. It further benefits from air conditioning and an integrated sound system throughout. Hamptons Knightsbridge 020 7717 5463 knightsbridgelettings@hamptons-int.com
ÂŁ4,500 per week Furnished Double reception Separate kitchen Separate dining 5 bedrooms Lateral Air conditioning
PROPERTY
Expert Comment Jo Webster reports on the effects of, and reactions to, the Government’s draft Finance Bill on residential property taxes, sales in 2012 and predictions for 2013 The GovernmenT’s eaGerly awaited draft finance bill on residential property taxes was finally released on 11 December 2012. This announcement undoubtedly helped to alleviate many of the concerns that most purchasers, and indeed existing property owners, were feeling whilst we all waited for the new structure to be announced. The 2012 Budget announcement, that stamp Duty land Tax (sDlT) increased to 15 per cent for ‘non natural Persons’ (nnPs) purchases of more than £2 million, caused widespread market concern. This higher bracket will now coincide with the newly confirmed annual residential Property Tax (arPT), which will be implemented in april for properties valued at more than £2 million. Properties will undergo valuations every five years to determine which level of charge will apply, although there will be some limited exemptions from the charge including property developers, investors and corporate trustees. The amended Capital Gains Tax (CGT) system, which will be implemented from 6 april 2013, now includes the once exempt, non-UK resident, nnPs; however exclusion from inheritance tax currently remains in place. In essence, those nnPs liable for the higher rate of sDlT will also be liable for the new arPT and the new CGT charge. equally, limited exceptions who qualify for relief from the arPT will now also fall into the 7 per cent bracket of sDlT (effective from the date of the royal assent of the Finance Bill, scheduled for June 2013). To date, there will be no ‘mansion tax’ on properties over £2 million owned by private individuals, ‘natural persons’, as was widely speculated in the run up to the 2012 budget. however the sDlT rise from 5 per cent to 7 per cent continues to tighten asking prices at just above £2 million. as a direct result of the increased sDlT, Jo Webster Properties sold 21 per cent more properties under £2 million in 2012 compared with 2011. nevertheless, despite this increased activity in the lower bracket, the average price of a property sold by Jo Webster Properties in 2012 remains above the
the KENSINGTON & CHELSEA magazine
new sDlT threshold, at £2,665,000, with the number of sales over £5 million also increasing, accounting for 20 per cent of transactions in 2012. The number of purchases by nnPs has fallen since march 2012. Investors from the UK and abroad, however, remain accountable for more than 55 per cent of Jo Webster Properties sales in Kensington and Chelsea, demonstrating the continuing worldwide appeal of the royal Borough. Prime, secure, gated developments remain the preferred choice for buyers, offering the highest levels of security, services and leisure facilities. The much-anticipated clarification of these new charges will add transparency and reduce the general uncertainty that ensued post budget 2012. The clear structure now implemented promises to reduce market apathy and increase the number of transactions above £2 million in 2013. london’s presence on the worldwide stage has been amplified by the success of the Jubilee celebrations and london 2012, although these spectacular events, whilst increasing the capital’s profile, when coupled with market uncertainties, undoubtedly also paved the way for a quieter summer market. Jo Webster Properties anticipates a promising 2013. london remains not only the financial capital of the world, but also a diverse and multicultural city, offering a secure and lucrative investment for UK and overseas investors. In particular, prime riverside and central london premium residential developments remain ever more desirable, combining a secure home and secure investment with modern london living*. Annual Residential Property Tax for ‘Non Natural’ Home Owners Property Value Annual Charge (from 1 April 2013) £2 – £5 million: £15,000 £5 – £10 million: £35,000 £10 – £20 million: £70,000 more than £20 million: £140,000 *This article is for guidance purposes only. Please contact your tax adviser for more information
Jo Webster Properties, Worlds End Studios 132-134 Lots Road, Chelsea, SW10 0RJ 020 7349 7055; www.jowebster.com
161
Local know-how. Better results.
0 % Commission 100 % Local know-how And our commitment to getting you the best possible result... on the house! > More offices than any other estate agent in the Royal Borough, all working together
> Maximum exposure to the best buyers > London’s best negotiators* > Award-winning customer service** > Award-winning marketing* > Over 150 years’ experience
To celebrate the opening of our 7th office in the Royal Borough, we are offering to sell your property for free! For full Terms and Conditions, call us or visit marshandparsons.co.uk/sell-your-home-for-free South Kensington Office 29 Harrington Road, London, SW7 3HD T: 020 7368 4458 marshandparsons.co.uk
* Voted ‘Best UK Estate Agent 2012’ and ‘Best Marketing 2011’ at The Negotiator Awards. **Voted GOLD ‘Best Customer Service’ at the Sunday Times Awards 2012
Local know-how. Better results. Our Offices: Balham Barnes
Battersea Brook Green Chelsea
Clapham Earls Court Fulham
Hammersmith Holland Park Kensington
Little Venice Mayfair North Kensington
Notting Hill Pimlico & Westminster South Kensington
A beautifully presented house offering fabulous propertions throughout, secure underground parking and a delightful south facing garden. This former ‘show-home’ is one of three, high specification homes by Berkley Homes. The accomodation offers excellent entertaining space with three reception rooms and a large kitchen/breakfast room leading out to the garden, The bedroom accommodation includes three double bedroom suites and a double bedroom, served by a family bathroom. Freehold. Sole Agents.
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SALES
See all of our properties online: marshandparsons.co.uk
Burnham Court W2 £4,350,000 A magnificent apartment in this beautifully maintained, portered mansion block moments from Kensington Gardens. Offering generous living accommodation, this well configured apartment benefits from fabulous aspects and great light. Space for entertaining includes a triple aspect, triple reception room that enjoys fantastic southerly views, a further double reception room and a beautifully fitted kitchen/dining room. A large master suite with four further double bedrooms served by two bathrooms. Sole Agents.
Local know-how. Better results. Our Offices: Balham Barnes
Battersea Brook Green Chelsea
Clapham Earls Court Fulham
Hammersmith Holland Park Kensington
Little Venice Mayfair North Kensington
Notting Hill Pimlico & Westminster South Kensington
Margaretta Terrace SW3 £3,750,000 A wonderfully quiet family home located moments from the bustling King’s Road. This fabulous house boasts excellent accommodation, comprising a large double reception room on the ground floor, leading to a bright open-plan kitchen with a conservatory style dining area, a small patio with a spiral staircase leading to a roof terrace above, a master bedroom suite on the first floor, two further double bedrooms and a fourth bedroom/study with access to a terrace. Freehold. Sole Agents.
CHELSEA: 020 7591 5570 sales.chs@marshandparsons.co.uk
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SALES
See all of our properties online: marshandparsons.co.uk
Bramerton Street SW3 £2,950,000 This wonderful house is located on a very quiet Chelsea street, just off the King’s Road. Arranged over three floors, the property features a large double reception room that leads out to a small terrace and down to a pretty patio garden below, a fabulous dining room and kitchen, three double bedrooms, two bathrooms and a stunning roof top terrace. Freehold. Sole Agents.
CHELSEA: 020 7591 5570 sales.chs@marshandparsons.co.uk
Local know-how. Better results. Our Offices: Balham Barnes
Battersea Brook Green Chelsea
Clapham Earls Court Fulham
Hammersmith Holland Park Kensington
Little Venice Mayfair North Kensington
Notting Hill Pimlico & Westminster South Kensington
Craven Hill Mews W2 ÂŁ2,995,000 An exceptional house with bright southerly aspects located on a quiet residential mews, moments from Hyde Park. Having had a comprehensive redesign and refurbishment, the spectacular interior now provides a large double reception room opening onto a beautiful, well designed kitchen/dining room with access to a south facing garden. The bedroom accommodation includes two double bedroom suites, two further bedrooms and a bathroom. Freehold. Sole Agents.
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Join us on Facebook: facebook.com/marshandparsons
Visit our YouTube channel: youtube.com/user/marshandparsons
SALES
See all of our properties online: marshandparsons.co.uk
Palace Gate W8 ÂŁ2,895,000 A truly elegant, three bedroom split level maisonette with a private patio and access to a roof terrace. This beautifully presented apartment is arranged over the ground and lower ground floors and offers a fabulous balance of living/entertaining space with high ceilings throughout. Palace Gate is ideally situated for the local amenities of both Kensington High Street and Gloucester Road, as well as convenient access to Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park. Share of Freehold. Sole Agents.
KENSINGTON: 020 7368 4450 sales.kns@marshandparsons.co.uk
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Evelyn Gardens SW7 ÂŁ2,250,000 Situated within a well maintained period building, this large duplex apartment is presented in excellent condition throughout. The accommodation comprises a large open plan kitchen/reception room with views over the communal gardens, two double bedrooms, a family bathroom, a large master suite with excellent built-in storage and a private roof terrace accessed from the half landing. Evelyn Gardens is a picturesque road ideally located between South Kensington and Chelsea. Leasehold. Sole Agents.
SOUTH KENSINGTON: 020 7590 0800 sales.skn@marshandparsons.co.uk
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SALES
See all of our properties online: marshandparsons.co.uk
Onslow Gardens SW7 ÂŁ1,895,000 This wonderful ground floor maisonette is presented in excellent condition having recently been completely refurbished. The property comprises a stunning open plan kitchen/reception room with direct access to the private patio and communal gardens. The bedroom accommodation boasts a master bedroom with en suite shower room, a utility/ cloakroom, two further double bedrooms and a large family bathroom. Leasehold.
SOUTH KENSINGTON: 020 7590 0800 sales.skn@marshandparsons.co.uk
Princes Gate, sW7 ÂŁ3,350,000, LeasehoLd Seeking all Purchasers who want a view, this flat gives you unbelievable aspects of Central London. Located on the ninth floor (lift) of this purpose built pre-war mansion building in the heart of Knightsbridge and accessed via the newly regenerated streets surrounding the world famous of Exhibition Road. 3 Bedrooms | 2 Receptions | 3 Bathrooms | Communal Garden | Unmodernised | Approx 1695 sq ft
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winkworth.co.uk/knightsbridge-chelsea 020 7589 6616 knightsbridge@winkworth.co.uk
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arGyLL Mansions ÂŁ795 PW Furnished/unFurnished A beautiful two double bedroom apartment which benefits from two bathrooms, impressive integrated storage solutions and an open-plan entertaining space with modern kitchen. The property is located on the first floor of this loved Mansion block on the famous Kings Road. 2 Bedrooms | 2 Receptions | 2 Bathrooms | Approx 943 sq ft
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winkworth.co.uk/knightsbridge-chelsea 020 7589 6616 knightsbridge@winkworth.co.uk
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Queens Gate Gardens, sW7 Price on aPPLication share oF FreehoLd A magnificent duplex top floor apartment arranged over the fourth and fifth floors of this handsome mid-terrace period conversion (with a lift) located in one of South Kensington’s most sought-after garden squares. Situated on the favoured North terrace with uninterrupted South facing views, this stunning apartment offers flexible living over two floors with a wealth of entertaining space that includes an impressive full width reception room directly overlooking the attractive communal gardens to which the flat enjoys access. Large Reception Room | Dining Room | Study | Kitchen | Master Bedroom with En-Suite Bathroom | Two further Double Bedrooms | Bathroom | Guest WC | Lift | Access to Communal Gardens via separate negotiation
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winkworth.co.uk/south-kensington 020 7373 5052 southkensington@winkworth.co.uk
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courtFieLd Gardens, sW5 ÂŁ1000 PW Furnished/unFurnished A truly exceptional flat with huge amounts of light on the 4th floor (with lift) of this period building. The property comprises two large double bedrooms, two bathrooms (one en-suite), spacious reception room and separate eat-in kitchen. The property extends to 983 sq ft of living space and includes a Porter Monday to Friday and Saturday morning. The property also benefits from access to communal gardens and is within a few minutes walk of the numerous local amenities. This property is available now on a furnished or unfurnished basis. Large Reception Room | Separate Eat-In Kitchen | Two Bedrooms | Two Bathrooms (One En-Suite) | Fourth Floor (with Lift) | Communal Gardens
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winkworth.co.uk/south-kensington 020 020 7370 73736767 5052lettings.southken@winkworth.co.uk southkensington@winkworth.co.uk
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PaLace Gate, W8 ÂŁ2,300,000 share oF FreehoLd A spacious three bedroom maisonette (1,484 sq ft/137 sq m) situated on the third and fourth floors (with lift) of a grand Victorian terraced house. The property has wonderfully proportioned rooms and also benefits from a large roof terrace. Entrance Hall | Drawing Room with French Windows onto Balcony | Well-Equipped Kitchen/Dining Room | Principal Bedroom with En Suite Bathroom | Two Further Double Bedrooms | Further Bathroom | Cloakroom | Roof Terrace | Lift
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winkworth.co.uk/kensington 020 7727 1500 kensington@winkworth.co.uk
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hoLLand Park, W11 Price on aPPLication LeasehoLd A beautifully presented and rarely available two bedroom flat situated on the first floor of a double fronted Victorian villa in this sought after address. The property has a large principal rooms and high ceilings throughout. Entrance hall | Drawing room | Kitchen | Principal bedroom | Further double bedroom | Bathroom
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winkworth.co.uk/kensington 020 7727 1500 kensington@winkworth.co.uk
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LonsdaLe road, W11 ÂŁ3,100,000 FreehoLd This beautifully refurbished and impeccably presented 4 bedroom house with wisteria climbing up its front is one the most attractive on the street. Lovely open kitchen with dining area, spacious double height conservatory, utility room and cloakroom with galleried balcony looking down to the lower ground from the rear. Perfect for a young family. 4 Bedrooms | 1 Reception | 2 Bathrooms | Garden | House | 1741 Approx Sq ft
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winkworth.co.uk/notting-hill 020 7727 3227 nottinghill@winkworth.co.uk
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Westbourne Grove, W11 ÂŁ1,450,000 share oF FreehoLd An exquisite first floor apartment in the heart of Notting Hill, thoughtfully arranged, the property features a spacious entrance hall and two very well proportioned bedrooms, peacefully positioned to the rear. Designed by the architect to exhibit the wonderful original proportions and light of this Grade II listed building. 2 Bedrooms | 1 Reception | 1 Bathroom | 795 Approx Sq ft
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winkworth.co.uk/notting-hill 020 7727 3227 nottinghill@winkworth.co.uk
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While others are still looking for the best property for you, we’ve found it. (Beep! Beep!) Ever wondered why those big estate agents are so slow? We know. We’re nimble. No head office holds us down. Or back … when it comes to finding the perfect property, if you’re buying. Or the best price, if you’re selling. No passing on messages. You get the same person talking to you every time. And because we’re not one of many branches, nobody’s in time-wasting board meetings. Business-like, approachable and straightforward, snow or sunshine, we get our skates on. It’s why we’re streets ahead. Drop in for a cup of tea today. At Crayson, the kettle’s always boiling.
hello@crayson.com T 020 7221 1117 10 Lambton Place London W11 2SH
Lennox Gardens, Knightsbridge SW1 A perfectly formed apartment, with high ceilings and plenty of space, in one of London’s incomparable addresses: a secluded garden square in Knightsbridge This property encapsulates everything that is unique about living in Central London – distinctive (Pont Street Dutch) town houses in a beautiful, quiet garden square, that have been cleverly converted into large airy apartments.
Double reception room Kitchen Master bedroom suite One further bedroom & additional bathroom Communal gardens (access negotiable via managing agents) The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea 1,314 sq ft / 122.1 sq m Energy Performance Rating Band D Guide Price ÂŁ3.1 million Leasehold (92 years remaining)
Sole Agent hello@crayson.com T 020 7221 1117 10 Lambton Place London W11 2SH
Westbourne Grove, Notting Hill, W11 ... and not a million yards from one of the most fashionable streets in London If Notting Hill is up-and-coming, Westbourne Grove came up and claimed its rightful position as one of the most fashionable places in London some time ago. Designed by the awardwinning architects, Russell Jones, this property sits most comfortably in this high-end part of town. As will those fortunate to live here.
Full length reception room, large kitchen and dining room Master bedroom and bathroom suite Four further bedrooms, family bathroom, en suite shower Balcony, terrace and private walled garden Off-street parking The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea 2,659 sq ft / 247 sq m Energy Performance Rating Band C Guide Price ÂŁ5 million Freehold
Sole Agent hello@crayson.com T 020 7221 1117 10 Lambton Place London W11 2SH
Cadogan Gardens, Chelsea SW3 • 2 Bedrooms
• Balcony
• 1 Bathroom
• Resident porter
• Guest cloakroom / WC
• Lift
• 1 Reception room
• Approx. 981 sq ft (91 sq m)
• Kitchen / breakfast room
“ Set just off Sloane Square this corner building provides a double aspect with plenty of light throughout”
Guide Price £1,500,000 Leasehold with 29 years remaining
For more information call Simon Godson on 020 7306 1610 or email sgodson@waellis.co.uk
W.A.Ellis LLP 174 Brompton Road London SW3 1HP
waellis.co.uk
Pavilion Road, Knightsbridge SW1 • 2 Bedrooms
• Garage
• 1 Bathroom
• Storage / cellar (approx. 283 sq ft)
• 1 Reception room
• Approx. 1,175 sq ft (109.1 sq m)
• Kitchen
£ POA Freehold
“ A newly refurbished stylish low-built house in an excellent central location”
Cheltenham Terrace, Chelsea SW3 • 3 Bedrooms
• Fully fitted kitchen
• 3 Bathrooms
• Balcony
• Guest cloakroom
• Porter
• Double reception room
• Approx. 1,830 sq ft (170 sq m)
“A spacious fourth floor apartment in this sought after portered building in Chelsea”
£1,725 per week Unfurnished
For more information call David Mills on 020 7306 1630 or email dmills@waellis.co.uk
W.A.Ellis LLP 174 Brompton Road London SW3 1HP
waellis.co.uk
Stafford Terrace, Kensington W8 • 2 Bedrooms
• Study
• 2 Bathrooms
• Balcony
• 2 Reception rooms
• Paved garden
• Kitchen/dining room
• Approx. 1,874 sq ft (174 sq m)
“A magnificent maisonette in this fine stucco fronted building in Kensington”
£1,850 per week Unfurnished
For more information call Lucy Morton on 020 7306 1630 or email lmorton@waellis.co.uk
W.A.Ellis LLP 174 Brompton Road London SW3 1HP
waellis.co.uk
ROSSETTI GARDEN MANSIONS, LONDON. SW3 SHARE OF FREEHOLD TWO BEDROOMS GROSS INTERNAL AREA: 570 SQ FT/ 53 SQ M
ÂŁ940,000 stc Reception room, Open plan kitchen, Two bedrooms, Bathroom, Lift. An attractive two bedroom flat on the third floor (with lift) of this lovely sought after Victorian Mansion block. The flat benefits from two south facing double bedrooms, wood parquet flooring throughout, porter and has a share in the freehold. Rossetti Garden Mansions is to be found in a
tranquil leafy setting in between the river Thames and the Kings Road with its abundance of fashionable shops and restaurants. There are numerous bus routes on the Kings Road and Sloane Square underground station is nearby as is the popular Chelsea local, The Surprise. EPC rating E.
CHELSEA OFFICE 2 Cale Street, London SW3 3QU +44 (0)20 7581 5011 chelseaoffice@henryandjames.co.uk
henryandjames.co.uk
Rec
CROWN LODGE, LONDON. SW3 SHARE OF FREEHOLD TWO BEDROOMS GROSS INTERNAL AREA: 818 SQ FT/ 76 SQ M
ÂŁ1,350,000 stc Reception room, Kitchen, Two bedrooms, En suite bathroom, Shower room, Lift, Two parking spaces, Communal gardens, 24 hour porterage. Two bedroom flat on the fourth floor (with lift) of this sought after and prestigious modern building. The apartment benefits from a well proportioned reception room, two double bedrooms, an ensuite bathroom and a separate shower room. Crown Lodge is set in beautiful communal gardens with its Koi carp stocked pond and Wisteria draped walkway. There
is 24 hour porterage with CCTV security, two underground car parking spaces and the leisure centre with its tranquil swimming pool. Crown Lodge is an impressive purpose built red brick building quietly nestled amongst the Chelsea Green one way system, making it mere moments walk from both Sloane Square and South Kensington. EPC rating D.
CHELSEA OFFICE 2 Cale Street, London SW3 3QU +44 (0)20 7581 5011 chelseaoffice@henryandjames.co.uk
henryandjames.co.uk
CADOGAN SQUARE LONDON. SW1X TWO BEDROOMS FURNISHED
ÂŁ1,650 PER WEEK stc Reception room, Large eat in kitchen, Two double bedrooms, Two bathrooms, Roof terrace, Patio garden, Housekeeper. An elegant modern two bedroom maisonette that has exceptional outside space in the form of a roof terrace and patio garden as well as access to the communal gardens with tennis court. Furnished in a contemporary style and neutrally decorated throughout, the property has great reception space with wood flooring and high ceilings. Further accommodation
comprises master bedroom with en suite bathroom, double bedroom with direct access to the sunny roof terrace, kitchen with a dining area and second bathroom. Situated on one of Knightsbridge’s most sought after locations and within short walking distance of Knightsbridge and Sloane Square. EPC rating D.
CHELSEA OFFICE 2 Cale Street, London SW3 3QU +44 (0)20 7581 5011 chelseaoffice@henryandjames.co.uk
henryandjames.co.uk
PETERSHAM PLACE, LONDON. SW7 TWO BEDROOMS UNFURNISHED
£1,350 PER WEEK stc Reception room, Open plan kitchen with dining room, Two double bedrooms, Two bathrooms, Garage. Superb light two bed two bathroom mews house that has been refurbished to a very high standard in a modern and contemporary style. The house is located in a picturesque cobbled mews situated between Queen’s Gate Terrace and Elvaston Place and minutes from Hyde Park. The principle rooms have solid wood flooring and air conditioning. The
kitchen/dining room has a large American style fridge and a mixture of wood and stainless steel worktops. Further accommodation comprises master bedroom with en suite bathroom, double bedroom with excellent storage, bathroom, second reception room with doors leading onto a balcony and a garage. EPC rating D.
CHELSEA OFFICE 2 Cale Street, London SW3 3QU +44 (0)20 7581 5011 chelseaoffice@henryandjames.co.uk
henryandjames.co.uk
Clabon Mews, London, SW1 A superb mews house situated in one of the most sought after locations in London. Master Bedroom Suite • Three Further Bedrooms • Two Bathrooms • Two Reception Rooms • Kitchen & Breakfast Room • Utility Room • Cloakroom West Facing Terrace • Courtyard • Garage Approximately 2,150 sq ft / 200 sq m
020 7808 8540
patrick.lister@sothebysrealty.co.uk
Price on Application Freehold
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Albert Hall Mansions, Kensington SW7 A stunning three bedroom flat set in one of Kensington’s most prestigious addresses. Master bedroom with en-suite • Bedroom two • Shower room Reception room • Entrance hall • Guest cloakroom • Kitchen/breakfast room Media room / bedroom three • Lift • Porter Approximately 1,533 sq ft / 142 sq m
020 7808 8540
alex.salkeld@sothebysrealty.co.uk
Guide Price: £3,150,000 Leasehold
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Leinster Square, Notting Hill W2 A superb third floor flat in the heart of fashionable Westbourne Grove. Two Bedrooms • Bathroom • Reception room • Lift access • Newly refurbished white stucco building • Overlooking communal gardens Approximately 595 sq ft / 55 sq m
020 7808 8540
alex.salkeld@sothebysrealty.co.uk
Price on Application Leasehold
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West Eaton Place, Belgravia SW1 An elegant London pied-à-terre in a premier location. Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, dressing room and private courtyard • Bedroom two with en-suite bathroom • Third bedroom Double reception room • Entrance hall • Kitchen/dining room • Terrace Cloakroom • Study • Storage vault • Approximately 2,051 sq ft / 191 sq m
020 7808 8540
philippa.cockburn@sothebysrealty.co.uk
Guide Price: £2,550,000 Leasehold
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BOLTON GARDENS MEWS, SW10 Nestling between the prestigious addresses of The Boltons and The Little Boltons is a stunning and discrete mews house. Reception room, kitchen/dining room, media room/bedroom 3 and adjacent shower room, guest bedroom with en-suite shower room and dressing area, master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, garage, atrium courtyard.
Freehold £3,450,000 STC South Kensington Office 020 7590 9955
QUEENÕ S GATE MEWS, SW7 A charming two floor house with a westerly aspect in the quieter culde-sac section of this stunning South Kensington mews. Currently arranged as a two bedroom house with a study, the accommodation could easily be arranged to provide three bedrooms. Reception room, kitchen, 2 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en-suite), study/ bedroom 3, cloakroom, garage and patio.
Freehold £2,450,000 STC South Kensington Office 020 7590 9955
@Lurotbrand @LurotbrandSales @LurotBrandLets
HOLLAND PARK MEWS, W11 A beautifully finished three storey house located in one of LondonÕ s best known and most desirable mews. 2 bedrooms with en suite bathrooms, large split level living space incorporating kitchen/dining area and sitting room, entrance hall/study, garage, roof terrace, air conditioning, under-floor heating, wine cellar.
Freehold OIEO £2,950,000 STC Hyde Park Office 020 7479 1999 JSA Savills 020 7727 5750
ORME COURT MEWS, W2 A great opportunity to extend this gem of a house in this charming private mews, close to Hyde Park. The house has previously had planning consent to excavate a basement and add about 600 sq ft above ground level. Open-plan reception/kitchen, 2 bedrooms, 2 shower rooms (1 en suite) cloakroom, garage, 2 patios.
Freehold £1,700,000 STC Hyde Park Office 020 7479 1999
www.lurotbrand.co.uk
LEXHAM GARDENS MEWS, W8 A well presented and bright, south facing three bedroom mews house on only two floors. The house is well positioned in the mews and convenient for Gloucester Road and Kensington High Street. Reception room with dining area, kitchen, master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, 2 further bedrooms, 2nd bathroom, study/ bedroom 4, cloakroom, garage.
£1,595 per week Unfurnished South Kensington Office 020 7590 9955
CORNWALL GARDENS, SW7 Newly refurbished apartment situated on the favoured first floor of this stucco fronted period building. The period features include original mosaic fireplace and double height ceilings. 1st floor Ô LÕ -shaped reception, fully fitted kitchen, large double bedroom, 2nd double bedroom, bathroom, shower room, balcony over looking communal gardens.
£1,200 per week Un/furnished South Kensington Office 020 7590 9955
@Lurotbrand @LurotbrandSales @LurotBrandLets
QUEENÕ S GATE MEWS, SW7 A superbly presented west-facing mews house that was completely refurbished in 2010. Large reception leading to fully fitted open-plan kitchen, master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, 2 further double bedrooms, 2nd bathroom, single garage. Solid wood floors throughout.
£1,300 per week Un/furnished South Kensington Office 020 7590 9955
ENNISMORE GARDENS MEWS, SW7 A large house in one of the most sought after mews in Knightsbridge if not London. Reception room with semi open-plan dining area, fully fitted kitchen, master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, 2nd double bedroom with en-suite, large entrance way and small terrace. 2 large double garages.
£1,150 per week Furnished/part furnished South Kensington Office 020 7590 9955
www.lurotbrand.co.uk
LINDEN GARDENS, W2 £1,275,000
Share of Freehold An amazing two double bedroom apartment designed by Tigg & Coll Architects. Dark oak wood floors run throughout the bright reception room into a contemporary, fully fitted kitchen which features composite stone worktops and Calacatta marble splashbacks. The master bedroom has a mirrored dressing area that leads to a stylish, limestone en suite shower room. Elsewhere there is a second bedroom and a smart guest bathroom with a chic Arabescato marbletopped bath. The pièce de résistance of this awe-inspiring property is a remarkable decked/landscaped roof garden with panoramic views across London.
17 Kensington Park Road, London W11 2EU
Email: info@domusnova.com Tel: 0207 727 1717 Fax: 0207 727 2030 Web: www.domusnova.com Domus loves: inspiring designs at the MADE.COM showroom on Notting Hill Gate
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DENBIGH CLOSE, W11 ÂŁ2,800,000 Freehold A contemporary mews house arranged over three floors, set just off Portobello Road. Offered in exceptional order throughout, the property comprises a ground floor reception space and cool open plan kitchen and dining area. The entire top floor is dedicated to an indulgent master bedroom suite and a stylish, modern bathroom. Encompassing the first floor are two further double bedrooms both of which benefit from en suite bathrooms.
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KENSINGTON PARK ROAD, W11 ÂŁ3,000 per week
Short Let
An elegant three bedroom period conversion in the heart of Notting Hill. Featuring an impressive living space with high corniced ceilings, large sash windows bringing ample natural light alongside beautiful parquet wood floors. Accessed by large double doors, the adjoining kitchen is fully fitted with all appliances and has access to a fantastic decked roof garden with amazing views of the surrounding area. There are three large bedrooms, all of which offer a warm and inviting ambience, and two smart family bathrooms.
17 Kensington Park Road, London W11 2EU
Email: info@domusnova.com Tel: 0207 727 1717 Fax: 0207 727 2030 Web: www.domusnova.com Domus loves: our exciting new Bayswater office on Westbourne Grove
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SHALCOMB STREET, SW10 ÂŁ2,500 per week
Long Let
A truly decadent family home, remodelled by Roland Cowan Architects and interiordesigned by Christian de Falbe. Encompassing four floors in total, the property has a chic boutique feel throughout. Adding a twist to the traditional is a formal reception space with an Art Deco design. This galleried space overlooks a large open plan kitchen and dining area. The remaining upper floors comprise an indulgent master bedroom with en suite bathroom, three further double bedrooms and a family bathroom. In addition, there is a smart private decked terrace and balcony.
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KNIGHTSBRIDGE OFFICE KNIGHTSBRIDGE OFFICE KNIGHTSBRIDGE OFFICE ( ) 82 BROMPTON ROAD, 82 BROMPTON ROAD, LONDON SW3 1ER T: +44 0 20 65066506SW3 1ER T: +44 ( 0 )20 722 )20LONDON 82 BROMPTON ROAD, LONDON SW3 1ER T: +44 ( 07225 7225
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WaltoN House, KNigHtsbridge, sW3 A beautifully refurbished two bedroom flat (1,029 sq ft/95.6 sq m) on the ground floor of this charming period building on Walton Street in the heart of Knightsbridge. Approached through a small front garden with its own private entrance, the flat has a very spacious reception room, kitchen and two double bedrooms with en suite bathrooms. Presented in immaculate condition, the property would make an ideal pied-a-terre or rental investment. Walton House is situated on Walton Street overlooking Lennox Gardens Mews, ideally placed for the wonderful shopping and restaurants on Walton Street and a few minutes walk from Harrods and the Brompton Road. ÂŁ1,850,000 Leasehold approx. 94 yrs 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
HARRODSESTATES.COM
HanS Road, KnigHtSbRidge, SW3 A spacious, two bedroom apartment (1,045 sq.ft./ 97.1 sq.m) situated on the lower ground floor of this small portered block. Beautifully presented, the property also benefits from an impressive reception room opening onto a private patio garden. Hans Road is situated off the Brompton Road, directly opposite Harrods and ideally located for all the world-class amenities that Knightsbridge has to offer. Originally consisting of two period buildings, the block was totally refurbished to provide a number of purpose-built apartments with a reception area, daily porter, lift and security. ÂŁ1,950,000 Share of Freehold 020 7893 8044 Hassan.basma@harrodestates.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
HARRODSESTATES.COM
Herbert CresCent, sW1 A stunning double fronted 7 bedroom freehold period house extending to 6050 sq ft, close to Harrods in the heart of Knightsbridge. The house features lift, terrace, swimming pool, lutron lighting. 7 Bedrooms, 6 Bathrooms, 4 Reception Room, ‘Poggenpohl’ Kitchen, Conservatory, Utility Room, 3 Cloakrooms, Balcony, Patio
Freehold
P.O.A OFFICes At KnIGHtsbrIDGe & MArbLe ArCH
Elvaston PlacE, sW7 A very well presented and bright top floor (with lift) two bedroom apartment, extending to 1066 sq ft, including garage parking space and basement storage space. The flat is situated on the fifth floor and the building has a recently refurbished (2012) lift and live-in caretaker Reception Room - Two Bedrooms - Bathroom - Kitchen - Lift - Garage Parking Space
share of Freehold
ÂŁ1,295,000
KnIGHtsBRIDGE: 51 BEaUcHaMP PlacE lonDon sW3 1nY 020 7581 7646
SALES
LETTINGS
MANAGEMENT
INVESTMENT
KNIGHTSBRIDGE +44 20 7589 4452 knightsbridge@messilaresidential.com www.messilaresidential.com
HIGH SPECIFICATION PENTHOUSE CLOSE TO GLOUCESTER ROAD ALEXANDRA COURT, SOUTH KENSINGTON, SW7
ÂŁ2,750 Per Week UNFURNISHED
A comprehensively renovated, top floor, lateral four bedroom apartment situated in an attractive redbrick mansion block with porterage. This brand new apartment boasts great natural light, air conditioning, lift access and a private terrace. Comprising a double reception room, stylish kitchen, large separate dining area, terrace, guest cloakroom, three double bedrooms with ensuite bath or shower rooms and a fourth single room with ensuite shower room. MAYFAIR
KNIGHTSBRIDGE
MARYLEBONE
REGENTS PARK
51-53 South Audley Street
20 Montpelier Street
65 Weymouth Street
137 Park Road
www.messilaresidential.com
SALES
LETTINGS
MANAGEMENT
INVESTMENT
KNIGHTSBRIDGE +44 20 7589 4452 knightsbridge@messilaresidential.com www.messilaresidential.com
EXCEPTIONAL VIEWS OVER CHELSEA HARBOUR KINGS QUAY, CHELSEA HARBOUR, SW10
ÂŁ725 Per Week FURNISHED
A contemporary two bedroom, two bathroom apartment with a good size balcony, ideal for entertaining, overlooking the yacht harbour in this highly regarded secure modern development. Benefiting from an underground carpark space, porterage and landscaped grounds. Situated on the River Thames on the doorstep of the Design Centre, with convenient public transport links only a short distance.
MAYFAIR
KNIGHTSBRIDGE
MARYLEBONE
REGENTS PARK
51-53 South Audley Street
20 Montpelier Street
65 Weymouth Street
137 Park Road
www.messilaresidential.com
“The specialist agent for premium residential developments in prime Central London”
Stone Hall
Kensington Green, W8 An exceptional apartment with excellent entertaining space located in this sought after building within Kensington Green. Situated on the second floor, the apartment benefits from a dramatic double aspect 34 ft reception room, eat-in kitchen, two bedrooms, two bathrooms (one en-suite) and one secure underground car parking space. Stone Hall is a Grade II listed building set within the beautifully landscaped gardens of Kensington Green. Additional amenities include 24 hour security and a gymnasium.
T 020 7349 7055
£3,500,000 Share of Freehold 020 7349 7055 sales@jowebster.com
Sandalwood Mansions Kensington Green, W8
ÂŁ1,995,000 Share of Freehold 020 7349 7055 sales@jowebster.com
A bright two bedroom apartment with south facing views comprising 1,034 sq. ft (96sq. m) in the prestigious and highly regarded Kensington Green development. The accommodation includes a well-proportioned reception room, kitchen, two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and one secure underground parking space. Further benefits include 24 hour security, landscaped gardens and leisure facilities. Located moments from the excellent amenities and transport links of High Street Kensington and open spaces of Holland Park and Kensington Gardens.
www.jowebster.com
ABU
DHABI
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BARCELONA
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COURCHEVEL
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www.john-taylor.com
COSTA
BRAVA
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GENEVA
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GSTAAD
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LONDON
T: 0203 2841 888 M: +44 787 654 59 86 E: dadams@john-taylor.com twitter@davidadamsEA
HIGHLY COMMENDED
WINNER
David Adams Managing Director John Taylor - UK
BEST INTEGRATED HOME OVER £250,000 (€290,000)
BEST DRESSED RACK
Kensington, W8 KIT LIST
// PROJECT
// PROJECT
North Splendour Pimp My Rack With oneLondon of Kensington’s largest back gardens (73’8” long ) this newly built house has won National excellence Middle Atlantic pull-out rack cabinets Middle Atlantic patching frames awards. A highly secure complete resort in one place , with 5 bedrooms, an indoor swimming pool with integrated Set of patch panels for data, audio-video, control and It’s Done! Technology // INSTALLER power garage with car lift, dance floor, sauna, gym, steam room, jacuzzi, wine room for 1600 bottles, lift, panic rooms, Smartcomm Draytek Router and excellent The integrated security entertain 24-port Gigabit PoE Ethernet Switchand live. judges summed this up systems with bullet proof front doors. A fabulous place to both // INSTALLER
as “technically perfect”. This category looks for The home automation excellence in design system in this and installation as well as best practice stunning home exudes in cabling on and to convenience, simplicity the rack; something It’s Done! Technology BEST INDIVIDUAL DWELLING of control and state-ofhave achieved in abundance. All incoming structured cables run theart entertainment along dedicated cable trays to the patching frames, for the whole family. Smartcomm’s highly with appropriate thought given to the bend radius cable types. a High-grade patch panels commended solutionof different encompasses have been labelled and separated based on the dedicated cinema room, lighting, security, type of service to which they are assigned. MEGEVE • MERIBEL MILAN HVAC, including under-floor •heating, and • MONACO To enable easy identification of cables, each end security. The Crestron system accessed has been markediswith heat-shrink, colour-coded and then grouped according to the specific through a variety oflabels stylish touchpanels types of service to which they are dedicated. and handheld WiFi remote controls. To maximise ventilation inside the rack housing, Intercom control allows the client to call lacer bars of various sizes, cable ties, and Velcro tape have all or beenmultiple used, while cables have been a touch panel in a different cut to the exact lengths required. rooms. All the hardware is installed in two Cool blue LED strips, fitted to for the outer frames and free standing racks giving 360° access
48-port Gigabit Ethernet Switch
£16,500,000 gUiDe PRiCe Panasonic PBX
Crestron Processors
Kaleidescape Server Kaleidescape Players (1 x M300, 1 x M500) Sky+ HD VisionHD Video Matrix Switcher Crestron Audio Matrix Switcher Crestron Audio (entryphone and intercom) Matrix Switcher Crestron Video (entryphone and intercom) Matrix Switcher Crestron Telephone Interface
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Crestron Multi-channel Amplifier
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ST-TROPEZ
Denon AV Receiver
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APC Backup UPS
www.john-taylor.com It’s Done! Technology New Wave House, 4 Humber Road, London, NW2 6DW, UK
VALBONNE
REGENT HOUSE, W14
ÂŁ1,500,000 Leasehold
A superb three double bedroom, two bathrooms (one en suite) flat in this award winning gated development located just off Brook Green. The property has just been refurbished to an excellent standard, is neutrally decorated and stylishly furnished throughout. The accommodation further comprises a bright spacious reception room with corner balcony and a sleek contemporary kitchen with integrated appliances and granite work surfaces. Energy Efficieny Rating, current 77, potential 85. Environmental Impact Rating, current 77, potential 84
www.tatesestates.co.uk
135 Hammersmith Road, London W14 0QL
Melbury road, W14
ÂŁ775 Per Week
A stunning flat presented in excellent condition with wooden floors throughout. Accommodation comprises three bedrooms, study, beautiful family bathroom, en suite shower room, large reception room with access to a balcony and a sleek contemporary kitchen. Within walking distance of Holland Park and Kensington High Street. Unfurnished Energy Efficiency Rating – Current 78 / Potential 85 Environmental Impact Rating (CO2) Current 77 / Potential 84
www.tatesestates.co.uk
135 Hammersmith Road, London W14 0QL
PROPERTY
Reasons To Be Cheerful Andrew LAngton, Chairman of prime property specialist Aylesford, takes a look at 2013 “eConomiC foreCAsting has an important role: to make astrology look respectable,” as some wag once put it. so while we at Aylesford are happy for others to reach for crystal balls and crunch possible numbers, we’ll simply say that we’re feeling bullish about the year ahead.
Welcome to 2010 in effect, we may be back to 2010, a reasonable market where the wheels turned and deals were done. this will be a welcome improvement on 2012, when the budget introduced swingeing changes to company-owned property. Yet we had to wait until December for the treasury to clarify those plans. meanwhile, for most of last year, the top end of the market was on hold. now in 2013, we are at last getting back to work.
Buying and Selling the year should return to the most favourable conditions we have seen in a long time. the Council of mortgage Lenders announced last December that it expects to see a continuing recovery in 2013; encouraging, since they’re the people with the keys to the safe. this chimes with the Building societies Association which was quoted as saying that: “Consumers are finding it easier to access mortgage finance than at any time since [our survey] started in June 2008”. As for values, we think the picture will probably become clearer in the second quarter. At the higher end, the question will be how the new Annual residential Property tax (ArPt), and increased stamp duty, is perceived by company buyers.
Lettings Despite an improving climate for buying, some will feel targeted as a handy revenue stream for the government. the UK is not unique here; monsieur Hollande’s french administration has some particularly unfriendly plans. As a result, we envisage good conditions for lettings in 2013, as some potential buyers bide their time and see what unfolds. Also, many landlords will have been encouraged by the confirmation that company-owned rental property will be exempt from the ArPt tax in April, and not trigger the 15 per cent rate of stamp duty. many will therefore hold on to their investments and some indeed will buy new ones.
International if there’s one thing that clients will put before fripperies such as heating or school fees, it’s their winter and summer holidays. international lettings continue to perform strongly and certainly our portfolio this year contains some exquisite ideas. so whether you’re buying, selling, letting or renting, welcome back to 2010 and a number of reasons to be cheerful. www.aylesford.com
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The Clockhouse, Old Church Street, SW3
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www.patrickclayton.co.uk |info@patrickclayton.co.uk | +44 (0) 20 7368 1638ď ź58-60 Kensington Church Street W8 4DB
London has never looked
struttandparker.com
better.
2012 was an extraordinary year for London. And for London property. Last year we showed the world what a fantastic place London is. From the memorable Queen’s Jubilee to the inspiring and triumphant spirit of London in 2012, we celebrated with the world and proved what makes this city such a vibrant, culturally-rich cosmopolitan place and undeniably, the world’s most desirable real estate capital. Strutt & Parker have sold and let more property than ever before and achieved 104% of our clients’ combined asking prices whilst doing so. Despite fewer people coming to the market, it took us on average less than a month to agree terms for our clients. Furthermore, 97% of our clients said that they would use us again; a statistic we cherish most. But we prefer to let our clients speak for us...
Chelsea
Kensington
Notting Hill
South Kensington
020 7225 3866
020 7938 3666
020 7221 1111
020 7373 1010
LD SO
LD SO
2012 was an extraordinary year for London and for London property. But we prefer to let our clients speak for us...
£6,950,000
£5,250,000
LD
Durham House, Chelsea Rare find; an outstanding penthouse flat with off-street parking and two roof terraces overlooking the cricket pitch of Burton Court.
SO
SO
You were impressive from the off and remained so to the end. It has been a real pleasure working with someone who unfailingly delivered.
LD
Cheyne Court, Chelsea An opportunity to create, subject to planning permission, one of the largest and most exciting apartments in Chelsea.
Brenda, Kensington
£5,200,000
I just want to say, how delighted I am to have had you as my agent for this sale, thanks ever so much, choosing you was the best decision of the whole process. Jan, South Kensington
£4,050,000
LD
Horbury Crescent, Notting Hill A well presented three bedroom house comprising 2,481 sq ft, with the benefit of having access to Ladbroke Square Gardens.
SO
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LD
De Vere Gardens, Kensington An impressive four bedroom flat on the third floor of an attractive Victorian building.
£4,950,000 Ladbroke Gardens, Notting Hill An outstanding four bedroom maisonette, occupying approximately 2,932 sq ft, with direct access to the beautifully maintained communal gardens.
104%
of our clients’ combined asking prices achieved during 2012 Chelsea Kensington Notting Hill South Kensington
£4,850,000
Sheffield Terrace, Kensington A wonderful and rare three bedroom maisonette with direct access to the communal gardens.
25 Buyers registered for any property
020 7225 3866 020 7938 3666 020 7221 1111 020 7373 1010
10 offices in central London 50 offices across England & Scotland Exclusive UK affiliate of Christie’s International Real Estate with 1,049 affiliate offices in 42 countries
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struttandparker.com
£2,400,000
£4,950,000 Onslow Gardens, South Kensington A grand four bedroom maisonette with private street entrance and direct access to communal gardens.
SO
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LD
LD
Smith Terrace, Chelsea A fabulous opportunity to modernise and enlarge a charming south-facing freehold house in this pretty street.
£8,600,000
£4,650,000
Brunswick Gardens, Kensington A beautifully presented six bedroom double fronted family house with a lovely westfacing garden.
We have experienced many well reputed agents. None matched up to the performance of Strutt & Parker. Julian, Chelsea
SO
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Seymour Walk, Chelsea This fantastic, recently refurbished five bedroom house, with garage, boasts wonderful living and entertaining space.
I found that Strutt & Parker did exactly as was described on the box! No exaggerations and no shortcoming. What they promised they did.
£18,500,00 Albert Place, Kensington An outstanding nine bedroom house with a fabulous garden, off street parking and a garage.
£2,185,000
Portland Road, Notting Hill An outstanding, contemporary house with off street parking and a west facing terrace set within a private, gated courtyard.
On all counts, Strutt & Parker did a first rate job. From start to finish, we were given great professional advice on strategy and it was great to work with such an energetic, highly organised and pro-active team. Rosie, Notting Hill
£1 Billion of flats and houses transacted every year
17 Days on average to agree terms
£1,950 per week
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Sloane Court West, Chelsea This exceptional first and second floor maisonette has been completely modernised to an interior design finish of the highest quality.
LE
T LE
Once instructed, for me the level of service provided by the Strutt & Parker team was second to none. The foremost reason I would have no hesitation in recommending Strutt & Parker is down to the high standard of communication.
T LE
T LE
£2,500 per week Holland Park A beautifully presented first floor flat situated in a highly desirable Holland Park villa overlooking Holland Park.
Johnnie, South Kensington
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T LE
I’ve been so impressed by the sheer efficiency and professionalism of Strutt & Parker’s short lets division that I’m raving about them to anyone who will listen! You’ve restored my faith in estate agents.
£1,995 per week Pembroke Gardens, Kensington A super low built family house offering flexible accommodation, off street parking and a private paved garden.
LE
£3,250 per week Elm Park Gardens, Chelsea A stunning interior designed three double bedroom, three reception room apartment in the heart of Chelsea.
Victoria, Chelsea
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T LE
£1,100 per week Onslow Gardens, South Kensington A stunning newly refurbished first floor flat finished to an exceptional standard in a contemporary style.
£1,700 per week Prince Edward Mansions, Bayswater A beautifully presented three bedroom flat on the fourth floor of a sought-after red brick mansion block.
LE
£850 per week Lansdowne Crescent, Notting Hill A newly refurbished two bedroom apartment ideally situated on one of Notting Hill’s most desirable streets.
£2,600 per week
Stafford Terrace, Kensington Refurbished throughout, a super lateral first floor flat situated in a pretty stucco fronted building in this desirable street.
10 offices in central London 50 offices across England & Scotland Exclusive UK affiliate of Christie’s International Real Estate with 1,049 affiliate offices in 42 countries
struttandparker.com
Year after year, we deliver excellent results for our clients. We take pride in knowing that our philosophy, approach and passion for selling and letting property in London has achieved extraordinary results for our clients. Our attention to detail, coupled with excellent customer service and expertise in the marketplace unveils a track record of delivering on promise every time. So much so that 97% of our clients said they would use again. We are proud to count amongst our clients many of the property industries leading professionals who choose to use us above their own agency. So, if you wish to get the most out of your property, whether you are considering selling or letting, contact: Chelsea Kensington Notting Hill South Kensington
020 7225 3866 020 7938 3666 020 7221 1111 020 7373 1010
HAPPY DIAMONDS COLLECTION
2012/49 - Spring Magazine / Rudell - 130WR - 225 x 320 mm - UK - 23/01/12