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CONTENTS 16

The Gilded Age

The Secret Garden

As she opens her second London boutique in Chelsea, Charlotte Olympia Dellal speaks to Olivia Sharpe

The British summer is unpredictable, to say the least, so wrap up warm after hours in faux fur, brocade and shearling,

Keeping Up with the Smiths

The South Kensington Club

Annabel Harrison meets the dynamic husband-and-wife team who founded luxury travel brand Mr & Mrs Smith in 2003

The Kensington & Chelsea Magazine goes behind the scenes at the new kid on the (exclusive membersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; club) block

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Keeping Watch

A Road Well Travelled

Parmigiani Fleurierâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s latest masterpiece, the Tecnica Les Carpes de Sandoz, is a tribute to sculptor Edouard Marcel Sandoz

Kari Colmans goes on the ultimate Italian road-trip, driving from Ravello to Venice, via Florence and Grosseto

This magazine is distributed throughout the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, including Chelsea, Kensington, Knightsbridge, Notting Hill and Holland Park, and parts of Belgravia, Fulham and Hyde Park

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On the Cover... This month, we turned to freelance fashion photographer Lukáš Dvorák for our cover image, which is entitled Indian Autumn. He is one of hundreds of talented artists featured within the LUMAS Galleries portfolio, which offers both those who are new to the art of photography and seasoned admirers the chance to add striking, and often limited edition, prints to their art collection. Turn to p. 47 to read more about Lukáš’ approach to the art form.

A U G U S T 2 0 1 5 s i ssu e 0 4 2 Editor Annabel Harrison Deputy Editor Olivia Sharpe Contributing Editors Richard Brown Hannah Lemon Editorial Assistant Ashiana Pradhan Senior Designer Sophie Blain

Cover image: Indian Autumn © Lukáš Dvorák LUMAS Gallery, 57 South Molton Street, W1K 5SJ lumas.co.uk

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From the EDITOR This month we’re putting our best foot forward, as two leading shoe designers set up shop in the Royal Borough. Charlotte Olympia is one of our favourite brands – glamorous, quirky and creative – and, at the launch of her Chelsea boutique, Olivia Sharpe interviewed its founder, who loves London as much as we do. “I grew up travelling a lot but London was always home for me. It has so much to offer” (p. 16). Bionda Castana, meanwhile, has added Italian flair to the already stylish Elizabeth Street (p. 68). We’ve also absorbed a healthy dose of art and culture over the past few weeks, starting with An Evening with Lucian Freud; we spoke to playwright Laura-Jane Foley and actress Cressida Bonas (p. 22) as the sell-out run came to an end. If you need summer reading recommendations, turn to Charles Spencer’s Killing of the King for gripping historical fiction about Charles I (p. 30) and, for family drama, opt for Kat Gordon’s impressive debut novel, The Artificial Anatomy of Parks (p. 52). Inspiring art and architecture come courtesy of LUMAS Gallery (p. 47), Christie’s upcoming sale (p. 58) and the beautifully designed Ismaili Centre in the heart of South Kensington (p. 60). If in fact escaping our glorious city during the summer months is on your mind, you couldn’t do much better than turning to the Mr & Mrs Smith website for advice; I met its lovely founders, Tamara and James, to discuss the perks and charms of the world’s best boutique hotels (p. 26), both here in the borough and further afield. We recommend Europe for your August getaway; I found the Mandarin Oriental Bodrum to be striking, luxurious and family-friendly, while Italy and Sicily consistently come out on top when it comes to cuisine and culture (pp. 98-108).

Last but certainly not least, we would like to thank The Kensington & Chelsea Magazine’s designer, Sophie Blain, as she returns to her native Australia, for all her hard work, creativity and enthusiasm over the past 40 issues of the magazine.

Editor

Annabel Harrison

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FEATURE

The Gilded

Age

As she opens her second London boutique in Chelsea, the glamorous Charlotte Olympia Dellal speaks to Olivia Sharpe about her love of London, red lipstick and Rita Hayworth

ot many of us can say we’re effortlessly glamorous. Speaking for myself, it ironically takes a great deal of effort to achieve this state. But the same cannot be said for Charlotte Olympia Dellal. Walking into her new store on a Thursday morning, the British shoe and accessories designer is dressed in a beige lace pencil dress with leopard print heels, her hair perfectly coiffed in a 1940s-inspired wave and to complete the picture, bright red lipstick – the embodiment of a glamorous bygone era. While the thought of doing my hair and putting on lipstick during the week is one that rarely enters my mind, for Charlotte, it is an essential part of her daily morning ritual. “I like the art of dressing up. I enjoy the process,” she says, speaking in a low, husky voice that perfectly harmonises with the soulful jazz softly playing in the background. “My hair I set once a week, like an old lady, so that immediately makes me feel a bit more

glamorous; then I add red lipstick and there you go.” Charlotte’s femininity and elegance have been well-translated into her new store, which is situated in Chelsea’s fashionable Brompton Cross (home to Chanel and Stella McCartney). Inside, the light and pristine 1,610 sq ft space features blush pink walls, mid-centuryinspired furnishings and brass panelling to accentuate the vast array of shoes and handbags on display. As well as her two boutiques in London, Charlotte has also spun an impressive web of retail stores globally over the last seven years, the latest marking the tenth in the line – an impressive feat for the shoe designer in a relatively short space of time. While all the stores are similar in appearance, the latest is far bigger in size than the original store in Mayfair and subsequently has a much larger offering, including the brand’s coveted bridal collection. Quizzing Charlotte about why she chose this location, she explains that it was a natural choice, having desired to capture an entirely different audience this time round. “In Mayfair, you have much more of a visiting

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FEATURE

crowd, whereas here in Chelsea it’s far more local. I actually used to live nearby on Pelham Street so I’m familiar with it as a shopping area and I love how it has a village feel.” Another unique aspect is its dedicated London capsule collection, which Charlotte created to celebrate its opening. Drawing inspiration from our fair capital, the tongue-in-cheek range includes iconic symbols, such as the Queen’s Royal Guards which have been soldered onto a pair of T-bar sandals, a black cabbie clutch and a Double Decker pouch. With there being so many “iconic landmarks” here, Charlotte admits to having found it difficult to narrow them down to just a few pieces. And yet, the finished collection holds a particularly special place in her heart: “I grew up travelling a lot but what I love about London is that it was always home for me. It’s very hard to find anything I hate about it; it has so much to offer”. The 33-year-old designer was born in Cape Town, the eldest of four siblings and daughter of property developer Guy Dellal and Brazilian model Andrea de Magalhaes Vieira. While blessed with glamorous parents, it was Charlotte’s grandmother who really ignited her love of classic Hollywood. “She was super glamorous and having lived through those times made it seem very authentic. She was the kind of grandmother you would dress up to go and see.” As a child, Charlotte loved emulating the Hollywood starlets who graced the silver screen of the 1940s and ‘50s, particularly Rita Hayworth (who stars in her favourite film, Gilda). Charlotte sadly notes that the art of dressing up and looking one’s best, once a daily occupation of society, is now a rarity: “It’s rare for people to make an effort these days because you don’t have to. Even in fashion, there are things that are more relaxed or sporty, which is fine, but that’s personally why I love that era where you dressed up, whether it was a Monday morning or a Saturday night. After all, life’s too short to save things, so why not just enjoy it?” Charlotte has very much channelled this vintage era into her brand. Despite always knowing she wanted a career a fashion, she did not realise her path lay in shoe design until a tutor suggested it to her while she was studying at the London College of Fashion. She proceeded to design her first pair and the rest is history. She went on to train at Cordwainers, London’s prestigious shoemaking company, before working at fashion houses Emanuel Ungaro and Giambattista Valli. The most important piece of advice she was given before setting up her company was from her father, who told her how important it was for her to establish her own individual identity to set her apart from the rest. Wisely following his advice, the first pair of shoes Charlotte debuted has since

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become her signature, a glamorous high heel platform, and her spiderweb logo (based on her favourite book, Charlotte’s Web) is now her trademark. She comments: “There are so many great brands out there, with footwear and clothing especially, but having your own aesthetic is so important. You have to keep building your DNA.” Charlotte feels that accessories, more so than any other aspect of dress, can express a person’s personality: “I always say that with a pair of shoes you can tell what kind of day you’re going to have when you put them on in the morning. When I feel like I want to conquer the world, for instance, I always reach for my highest, most elaborate pair.” I note how there’s a flamboyant, quirky element to all Charlotte Olympia collections, invariably featuring bold and whimsical prints and vibrant colours. “I’ve never actually described them as quirky but people often do because they’re not everyday,” she responds. “But again this stems from my love of an old era. Schiaparelli is a designer I love because she was doing it way before anyone else, incorporating that element of surrealism into her timeless designs. And it’s not to say you have to be a playful person to wear elaborate hats or fun bags. I think you can dress quite soberly but still have that ‘exclamation mark’ as we call it.” Comparing them almost to pieces of art, Charlotte has always viewed accessories as “wearable objects” that not only can decorate a person but can also “look beautiful on your dressing room table”. She describes how her bedroom is filled with hats, shoes and bags that have not been stuffed away in a cupboard but are displayed in pride of place throughout. For the designer’s Pre-Fall 2015 collection, Untitled, she has looked to the modern art world for inspiration, particularly the minimalism and surrealism of the period; pieces include an ‘art modern’ Maggie clutch, multi-coloured mosaic wedges and a Salvador Dali-inspired box clutch printed with the iconic Mae West lips. This nostalgic mood

has continued into A/W15, except this time Charlotte was influenced by mid-century design and one of her favourite pieces is a tote inspired by the Dutch artist Kees van Dongen. Charlotte has once again injected her own personal taste into the collection, as revealed by the stocking shoes especially; as the name suggests, they were inspired by the concept of a pair of silk stockings, Charlotte having always been passionate about lingerie and hosiery: “It’s feminine, it’s just for you, not for anyone else. No-one knows what I’m wearing under my dress except me and I love that feeling.” As though acting out her favourite Hollywood film, Charlotte loves nothing better than “swooshing around in a silk dressing gown in her room”, living out a “dreamlike existence”. Painting such an elegant picture, it seems almost ironic that she has three strapping young boys, with whom weekends are often spent charging around parks. However, this has not prevented her from maintaining her glamorous look (although she does admit that during pregnancy she would never be seen tottering around in towering heels). Despite having initially wanted to create the Incy children’s collection for when she had a girl, having three boys did not prevent the designer from doing this and the collection now features miniature boys’ and girls’ styles. In terms of other ranges, the designer has branched out from simply doing super-high heels and now also offers flats, sneakers and boots, all the while insisting, however, that these are merely an extension of the existing brand aesthetic. When it comes to the future, as with her signature heels, Charlotte Olympia Dellal’s career is very much on a high. Having always remained true to itself and its classic aesthetic, her brand is one that I feel certain will remain timeless which, in the ever-changing world of the fashion industry, is a very comforting thought indeed. Charlotte Olympia, 114 Draycott Avenue, SW3 020 3553 4797; uk.charlotteolympia.com

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FEATURE

Muse

Modern

Rebecca Wallersteiner meets actress Cressida Bonas and Chelsea-based playwright Laura-Jane Foley following the sold-out run of An Evening with Lucian Freud

first saw Cressida Bonas at an end-of-term event at Stowe School. It was about eight years ago and Cressida, then an 18-year-old student, performed as Marilyn Monroe, singing Happy Birthday and Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend in a suitably breathy voice and captivating the audience. Her talent was apparent even then. Last month, I was in the audience for the opening night of An Evening with Lucian Freud, a new play by LauraJane Foley, also in her 20s. Cressida played the leading role – that of a young student who writes to Lucian Freud, based on Laura-Jane’s one-night encounter with the 82-year-old late artist in 2004, when she sat up discussing art with him. In the audience were various muses and friends of Lucian’s, as well as Cressida’s own family. She delivered her lines so compellingly that even The Telegraph’s Jane Shilling praised her “engaging” performance. The play sold out in its second week. After the opening night had come to an end, Cressida told me honestly that “it’s physically and emotionally exhausting to give a solo performance for an hour – it takes a lot out of you”. Even prettier in person with her stage make-up removed and her hair scrunched back, Cressida became familiar to the public as the pretty blonde photographed on Prince Harry’s arm and they were seen around Kensington a great deal. However, it can’t have been easy dating a Royal, even one as friendly, handsome and genuinely nice as Prince Harry, and since they split, Cressida has been making a name for herself away from the Royal limelight. It is unlikely that ex-soldier Prince Harry would have been shocked by Freud’s predatory shenanigans in the play and although it was rumoured that the Royal family had disapproved of Cressida’s acting career, Laura-Jane put this to rest: “When Prince Harry came to see the play he was utterly charming, delightful and very polite (as you’d expect!)”

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As the daughter of Lady Mary GayeCurzon, whose late father was the sixth Earl Howe, godson of King Edward VII, Cressida is almost as blue-blooded as the Royals themselves. In contrast to the Duchess of Cambridge’s more structured style, she is known for her relaxed, boho look, often seen in retro maxi dresses and stylish sunglasses, looking effortlessly chic. This play was her second major acting role; she also stars alongside Judi Dench, Tom Hollander and Cara Delevingne in the film Tulip Fever, to be released later this year. The storyline centres on an artist who falls for a young married woman he has been commissioned to paint during the tulip mania of 19th

“I think Freud was an artist who refused to conform; he wanted to uncover and convey truth” century Amsterdam. No doubt Cressida will be entrancing in a film which promises more painterly seduction, wit and champagne on dirty floorboards. The plot of An Evening with Lucian Freud revolves around the real-life experience of 21-year-old Cambridge student Laura-Jane, who wrote to Freud asking to interview him for her student newspaper. Famously reclusive, he declined the interview but instead invited her for dinner á deux. Cressida was well cast as LauraJane, the fresh, whimsical student who charmed and teased the ageing artist, and her dance training showed in her fluid grace and elegant twirls. In character, ‘LauraJane’ describes how Freud plied her with champagne and regaled her with stories of great artists he had met, such as Picasso. He scrutinised her, assessing her weight, skin and hair colour, and movement. Does Cressida feel intrigued by the secretive artist? “I think Lucian Freud was an artist who refused to conform. He wanted to uncover and convey truth,” she replies.

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In the play Laura-Jane turns down the offer to model for Freud. Does she regret it now? “I don’t, because I didn’t want it at the time. But to be honest, if an artist asked now, I’d probably model. I’m interested in the process and am more relaxed now than I was then,” she answers. LauraJane used to live in Kensington in Campden Hill Square, around the corner from Lucian on Kensington Church Street, but she has since moved to Chelsea. “I now live in Radnor Walk. Chelsea has a friendly, village-y atmosphere; it’s quite usual to wander down the King’s Road and bump into friends. As an art historian, I love having the Saatchi Gallery on my doorstep and the café is a great place to meet friends. My pictures are framed at Green & Stone, the beautiful old art shop and framer opposite Carlyle Square, where Lucian used to buy his paints.” The shop generously provided all the art materials for the play, partly as a tribute to him. The compact, 50-seat Leicester Square Theatre helped to re-create the intimate atmosphere of Freud’s studio; with its Rodin and Cézanne, smell of turpentine, 500 watt light bulb and discarded piles of lobster shells, I can testify that it felt rather like a carefully orchestrated stage-set in itself. On 20 July, it will be four years since Freud’s death. His last words to his friends were “keep my name in lights”, so I think he would be most pleased with Laura-Jane’s play.

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FEATURE

Keeping Up

Smiths with the

Annabel Harrison meets Tamara Heber-Percy MBE and James Lohan MBE, the dynamic husband-and-wife team who founded luxury travel brand Mr & Mrs Smith with the edification of discerning couples like themselves in mind

Photography: Rachel Juarez-Carr

IF YOU WERE SITTING next to Tamara and James in a hotel restaurant, you’d think they were just another normal couple away for the weekend, enjoying a glass of wine and each other’s company. However, in reality, they’ve got what many of us would deem a pretty perfect set-up. Although they’re now based in leafy Chiswick with their two children – living a happy, outdoorsy, south-west London family life – Tamara and James met in Ibiza in 1996, fell in love and subsequently discovered that what they were both best at was assessing the relative merits of the UK’s most romantic, unique, mysterious and mischievous boutique hotels and boltholes. So they decided to publish a guidebook to share some of their insights with couples seeking the

same kind of trip – and attention to detail – and they realised they had found their niche. Now, nine books, 950 hotels and nearly a million members later, the “hobby” has become a real business success story and a trusted brand with a tongue-in-cheek tone. Mr & Mrs Smith is “all about romantic escapes with your other half; a wink to couples everywhere who fancy checking into a fabulous hotel under this classic naughty-weekend pseudonym”. Tamara and James are opening an office in LA this summer as well as releasing an app and revamping their website. They’re still happily married despite having worked together for 12 years (which would sound the death knell for many relationships) and they were both awarded an MBE last year for services to the travel industry. Any qualms I have about the approachability of such high-fliers dissipate the moment I meet the real-life Mr & Mrs Smith in their West London office; they are unassumingly charming and friendly. Cool, young staff troop out of the white meeting room as we settle down in front of a huge red lightbulbstudded ‘Smith’ logo in their signature font on the wall. It is immediately clear that Tamara and James serve their customers so brilliantly because the company was born out of delivering a service they wanted for themselves, and they’ve never lost sight of this. “We couldn’t find a guidebook to advise us on what we were looking for,” says James, “which was weekends away. I was trying to impress Tam when we were dating and it all went horribly wrong courtesy of some guidebooks that I won’t name. We did our own guidebook as a fun thing which we thought we’d sell to a publisher and then get on with our day jobs again.” James puts their success down to passion and teamwork. “We’re doing something we love and it’s helped that we’ve been doing it together.”

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The Ampersand

The Ampersand - Apero restaurant

Their timing helped matters too. Over the course of the past three decades, the hospitality industry has changed massively. No longer will we accept UHT milk, the absence of duvets and hairdryers attached to the wall, which Tamara reminds me was once the norm, and no longer do we settle for a hotel just because it has a ubiquitous brand name. Thanks to the internet, there is now, quite literally, a world of choice. The term ‘boutique hotel’ was first used by Steve Rubell when he opened Morgans Hotel with Ian Shrager in 1984 and it is in these that team Smith specialises. “If you’re looking for something unique and special, rather than cookie-cutter

All stays include thoughtful Smith extras such as champagne on arrival or late check-out luxury or the obvious options, then you’re a Mr & Mrs Smith customer,” James affirms. “We’re here to champion those special places with heart and soul, or hosts that are real characters, and that show real inventiveness” Tamara adds, “and the travellers who like us are the ones who go to these places and value that.” Let’s face it; if you want to spoil your loved one with a surprise weekend away, you need to know that the website and pictures tell the whole truth and nothing but the truth. Is my Exceptional room really exceptional? Is the room service as great as they say it is? Can I charge my phone without having to plug it in under a table? “There are a million touch points during a stay,” James says, “and at the best hotels you don’t even notice them.” So what hospitality errors drive Mr and Mrs Smith mad? “Hotels have jumped on the technology bandwagon but some go overboard,” says Tamara. “That’s annoying. James is really particular about lighting…” and “music as well!” he chips in. “The places that are great are where you don’t notice the lighting or seating. If you’re fidgeting it’s because something hasn’t been designed or

thought through correctly. I don’t like over-service either; I don’t want to be asked constantly how my food is – I’m on a date with my wife, not with you! I like thoughtful or surprising touches, like hot water bottles in the bed on a cold night.” The devil is indeed in the detail. So how does a boutique hotel make the exacting Smith cut? Tamara, James or a team member visits every property to meet the manager, go on a tour and assess the the hotel ethos. James always asks to see the most affordable room first. If it wins their approval, each hotel is then “bed-tested” (anonymously, to ensure equally special treatment is bestowed on every guest), resulting in quirky, personal accounts. I agree with the reviewer, for example, that at Dormy House, the designers have “played fast and loose with the past to great effect” and I enjoy the account of Berlin’s Das Stue, where ‘Mr Smith’ compared his upgraded room to “a loft apartment with so much floor space we could have performed gymnastics. Mrs Smith was doing cartwheels with glee”. James says modestly that he and Tamara have “somehow created a brand that people seem to like, and be engaged with”; ‘somehow’ is because of things like ensuring that all stays include thoughtful little Smith extras – such as a glass of champagne on arrival, a bottle of local olive oil or late check-out. One of the hardest elements was working out the business model, he admits: “It sounds like a really simple thing to do but building a great brand is one thing; building a great business is the bigger challenge.” It’s hard not to talk about work when they get home – “but only because we’re both so passionate about it,” Tamara says – and work-free holidays are a thing of the past because if you work in the travel industry, business can always be combined with trips. “That’s the nice thing about running a travel business,” points out James. “Anything we need do to do, we can do on the road. We are travelling more but we love hotels and going to see new places.” Old favourites endure, though, and James singles out Blakes Hotel as “pretty special; it’s one of the first boutique hotels, if not the first. I love the fantasy element

The Orange

FEATURE

top hotels Expert consultant Gemma Miles provides her round-up of the Royal Borough’s Smith gems Best hotel for foodies: The Orange USP: The laid-back but luxurious ambiance. It’s a relaxed pub in one of London’s most exclusive locations. A great spot to watch the well-heeled world of Chelsea go by. Best dish/drink: Go for the ultimate roast: it’s one of West London’s best (try the Hampshire pork

The Ampersand

rack with spiced chutney). Most likely to hear someone say: “Another Sipsmith gin, please”. Nearby point of interest: Sloane Square is only a five-minute stroll away.

Best hotel for families: The Kensington USP: The dedicated kids’ concierge and the colourful tent canopies that cover the children’s beds. Best dish/drink: For grown-ups, wash seared scallops down with a Crispy Manhattan. Little ones will probably prefer the bedtime milk and cookies. Most likely to hear someone say: “Mummy,

of all the rooms being different, as well as the heritage. There’s a great bar – we used to go there for a glass of champagne because the bar snacks are like starters! And it’s discreet; there’s a back door so people who perhaps shouldn’t have been there can slip out. It’s a bit…” “…Mischievous”, Tamara finishes his sentence. She praises relative newcomers Dormy House and Foxhill Manor in the Cotswolds and her husband agrees. “I think the private house hotel concept is something quite special. There are hosts, not a general manager, and you can design your own weekend. Whatever you want, nothing is too much trouble but it’s all done in a relaxed, understated way. It feels like a very luxurious home.” So finally, I ask, can the couple who have been there, done that and bought the wall hangings really choose a favourite country? Tamara replies at once. “Brazil, the lungs of the world, for the climate, diversity and Rio – it’s just amazing.” James is just as passionate: “I love Ibiza the most! We met there and years ago I used to run nightclubs and DJ. Now we go as a family. I can’t think of another island where, within a 40-minute drive, you can see and do as much. Every time I go I get excited, and the kids love it as well. I still haven’t found anywhere on the planet which gives me as much as Ibiza, and not just for going out.” Their website lists 14 properties in Brazil and Ibiza, so follow in the footsteps of Mr & Mrs Smith; you can’t do much better than that if you’re in pursuit of boutique perfection. Mr & Mrs Smith gets you the best rates, guaranteed, as well as a little something extra on arrival at every hotel. To book, call 0330 100 3180 or visit mrandmrssmith.com

our Matilda seats are front row, aren’t they?” Nearby point of interest: It’s a leafy 20-minute wander to the Science Museum.

Best hotel for fashionistas: Blakes USP: The all-pervading sense of decadence: it’s tailor-made for couples seeking a hideout. Best dish/drink: The sesame seed pan-fried oysters with sweet soy dipping sauce are my favourite. Most likely to hear someone say: “Darling, I think that girl at the next table was on the cover of Vogue last month.” Nearby point of interest: The dinosaurs at the Natural History Museum – extra fascinating after a liquid lunch – are only 10 minutes away.

Best hotel for cocktail connoisseurs: The Ampersand USP: The V&A-inspired cocktail menu. Best dish/drink: Sip the Marriage-A-La-Mode cocktail, inspired by William Hogarth’s 1740s satirical painting: lavender-infused Portobello gin, Antica Formula and cognac. Most likely to hear someone say: Shall we try the Wimbledon-themed afternoon tea? I heard the pastry chef’s a genius. Nearby point of interest: It’s a five-minute walk from the Victoria and Albert Museum.

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FEATURE

A Royal Murder

Mystery

Bestselling author and historian Charles Spencer â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the ninth Earl Spencer â&#x20AC;&#x201C; talks to LIZ PARRY about his latest tome and his appreciation of the bookshops and rich history of the Royal Borough

Althorp, June 2013 Photography: Andrew Mackintosh

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s the founder of the Althorp Literary Festival and author of several historical books – including The Sunday Times bestseller Blenheim: The Battle for Europe – Charles Spencer has an obvious passion for literature. His most recent book, Killers of the King: The Men Who Dared to Execute Charles I, chronicles the demise of Charles I and the retaliation that followed. The 51-year-old aristocrat, having done a huge amount of research in preparation, realised that he had stumbled upon “a really juicy, interesting story”, and fellow British author and historian Alison Weir agreed in her review of the book: “Accomplished and gruesome, this masterful account of the fate of the regicides breaks all barriers in weaving the lives – and the grim fates – of many into a seamless, pacy and riveting read, underpinned by the depth of scholarship for which Charles Spencer is renowned.

“I remained very sympathetic to Charles I, as a man, but as a king I found he was appallingly bad” An exceptional and highly original history book that sheds new light on one of England’s bloodiest episodes.” Spencer already had a fascination with the English Civil War, having penned a biography of Prince Rupert of the Rhine. He was inspired to write Killers of the King after delving more deeply into the circumstances surrounding the death of Charles I. “My book became a detective novel, finding out who prosecuted, signed the death warrant or was actually involved in Charles I’s beheading”, he explains. “Who they were, why they did it, what happened to them.” Interestingly, Spencer’s opinion of Charles I and his opponents changed as he uncovered more facts about the political situation at the time. “I went into the process thinking I would feel very sorry for Charles I,” he admits. “But the more research I did, the more I saw what the men were really thinking when they sent this king to his death. The English Civil War remains the bloodiest conflict we’ve been involved in, even more than the First World War. People have begun to see Charles I as personally responsible for all these problems. I remained throughout very sympathetic to Charles I as a man, because he was very likeable and a decent father and husband, an interesting figure and a great collector of art. But, as a king, I found he was appallingly bad. I understood why they wanted to kill him.” Spencer’s opinion of Oliver Cromwell changed too, as he uncovered some rather unusual sides to the man who would become Lord Protector. “I obviously had to

Photography: Justin Creedy Smith

deal with him as this great general and politician,” says Spencer, “but I discovered he was quite an odd man. I can’t think of a more serious moment in a man’s life than going to sign the death warrant of the king but we have an eye-witness account of Cromwell in a state of hysteria, running round flicking ink at other people signing, and behaving in the most bizarre way. I found that intriguing. History to me is about people-watching and seeing how Charles I reacted on the scaffold, knowing he was going to die, or learning that Oliver Cromwell had this quite unusual side to his personality; that’s what I enjoyed sharing with the reader.” Spencer admits to a fondness for the history of Kensington and Chelsea and is a fan of its bookshops. “I spoke at a history festival at Kensington Town Hall and I was interviewed about my book. There is so much going on here that if people are kindly choosing to come to your event one evening, you know that they have a genuine interest, [and that they’re] not just filling an evening. I must say the audiences there are particularly good at an event like that. The history of Kensington and Chelsea is so fascinating for somebody writing about episodes from the past because it’s so incredibly historic, which does

FEATURE

Earl and Countess Spencer at the Killers of the King launch at Spencer House in central London Photography: Chris Radburn

Althorp Literary Festival 2014 Photography: Andrew Mackintosh

help the historian when researching their own work.” Spencer, a father of seven, lives at his ancestral seat, Althorp House in Northamptonshire, which he has owned since 1992. The estate has been held by the Spencer family for more than 500 years and was the home of the Earl’s sister, the late Diana, Princess of Wales, before she married Prince Charles. Spencer’s writing is undoubtedly inspired by his grand home: “[At one time] there were 640 portraits there and of course a lot of them were figures from history. I’ve always loved history. It’s been my passion ever since I was a small boy and I think a lot of it was to do with growing up in a house like that. I already feel incredibly lucky to have a custodianship of that house entrusted to me but, as a historian, it’s a double joy as I can relate to each room, and each character in each room, as a part of British and European history.” Every year since 2003, Spencer has opened up his home to host the Althorp Literary Festival. It is a fitting setting as literature is very much a part of the house’s history; thanks to George John, the second Earl Spencer, it contained one of the greatest private libraries of its time, with more than 43,000 volumes of priceless first editions. “I love the literary festival,” enthuses Spencer. “It is a very casual, enjoyable way to meet fellow authors and the people we invite are really interesting in their own field. Speaking at a literary festival is a wonderful commitment by authors in support of their work and I want them to feel that they’ve been properly thanked by coming to stay and having a very nice time.” So, with summer in full swing, many of us will be looking for a good book to take on holiday. What historical reads would Spencer recommend? “Alison Weir,” he says. “She is our top-selling female historian and she has this incredible gift for producing highquality, intelligent books at an astonishing rate. If you want something more academically interesting, Kate William is another one. She has an astonishing interest in history. They both have fantastic historical brains and they can really bring it alive, whether it’s history, plain and simple, or historical fiction.” Killers of the King: The Men Who Dared to Execute Charles I by Charles Spencer (Bloomsbury); spencerofalthorp.com/ literary-festival

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www.urvashilondon.com

collection

Pure Shores Unveiled just a few weeks ago at Cap Estel on the French Riviera, Piaget’s new high jewellery collection, Mediterranean Garden, takes us down a nostalgic path that recalls a stellar period of the maison’s history: the free-spirited 1960s and ‘70s, when international jetsetters and celebrities would attend Yves Piaget’s glamorous parties on the Riviera. The pieces bring to life the luscious floral gardens of the resort, not to mention the iconic Piaget Rose. Two jewellery techniques characterise the collection – twisted goldsmithing and marquise-cut stones – the former of which has been illustrated in a spectacular gold cuff featuring a magnificent 14.82-carat oval-cut black opal at its centre (perfectly capturing the French Riviera’s shimmering, deep blue waters), as well as emeralds, tourmalines and diamonds. Radiant Azur cuff bracelet, POA; piaget.com

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WORLD

of WATCHES BY RICHARD BROWN

String Theory

Parmigiani’s Pièce de Résistance Haute horology specialist Parmigiani Fleurier has produced a £500k wrist watch. How does the brand justify this price tag? By incorporating four of the most revered complications in timekeeping into an 18-karat white gold watch that has been hand engraved and enamelled in microscopic detail. The Tecnica Les Carpes de Sandoz is a tribute to sculptor Edouard Marcel Sandoz, founder of the not-for-profit Sandoz Family Foundation, parent company of Parmigiani Fleurier. Behind a hinged, double caseback, a 586-component calibre powers a minute repeater, tourbillon, perpetual calendar and chronograph. Not only does the watch chime the hours, quarterhours and minutes of the day, it also only requires one adjustment each century. Tecnica Les Carpes de Sandoz, £554,135 Parmigiani Fleurier, 97 Mount Street, W1; parmigiani.ch

Lange’s Legacy The development of the small town of Glashütte into Germany’s primary centre of watch-making can be attributed almost solely to one man. Not only did A. Lange & Söhne’s founding father, Ferdinand Adolph Lange, set up the world’s first production pocket-watch workshop in 1845, he was also responsible for introducing the metric system to the process of watch-making. To salute what would have been the maverick’s 200th birthday, A. Lange & Söhne has released the 1815 200th Anniversary F.A. Lange. Displaying hours and minutes only, with a small seconds subdial at 6 o’clock, the watch is reminiscent of the brand’s historic pocket watches – a beautiful tribute to a man dedicated to “the perfection of each and every watch”. 1815 200th Anniversary F.A. Lange, £24,100 alange-soehne.com

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Music provides the inspiration for many of Raymond Weil’s creations, accounting for relationships with the Royal Albert Hall and, since 2008, the Brit Awards – each winner receives a Raymond Weil watch as a prize. In exciting news, the company recently unveiled its first tourbillon, the Nabucco Cello. The timepiece pays homage to the instrument via hands that are formed in the shape of a bow, a bezel grooved with the five lines of the musical stave, and four tiny strings that are stretched across its dial. Skeletonised and measuring 46mm in diametre, we consider it the family-owned brand’s most serious, and certainly most striking, watch to date. Nabucco Cello Tourbillon, £27,500; raymond-weil.com

Recalling an Icon When we saw George Clooney sporting a vintage Omega Constellation in his latest sci-fi blockbuster, Tomorrowland, The Kensington & Chelsea Magazine was reminded of another Omega classic re-imagined earlier this year. Loyal to its original incarnation, the new Speedmaster ’57 has to be one of 2015’s best-looking chronographs, especially when paired with a brown leather strap. The watch’s self-winding mechanism can be viewed through its scratch-resistant, sapphirecrystal caseback. It’s available now. Speedmaster ‘57, £5,620; omegawatches.com

box

JEWELLERY BY OLIVIA SHARPE

Fink Again

Garden State

With so many now on the scene, there aren’t many rising jewellery designers who really excite us; however Nana Fink is one of the few who does. The Basel-based jeweller successfully launched her debut collection in 2011 and her name has quickly spread across the Channel, her pieces landing in London at Paul Smith’s Mayfair flagship boutique not long after. Her third collection, available this summer, is named Adorée and, true to Fink’s individual style, brings together both vintage and contemporary elements to create timeless pieces, on this occasion drawing on designs from the 1880s through to the 1930s. The collection, encompassing bangles, earrings and rings, utilises a mixture of metals, in particular gold and silver variations, with prices ranging from approximately £1,200 to £1,700.

In a dazzling display of craftsmanship and exquisite precious gemstones, Bulgari’s latest high jewellery collection, Giardini Italiani, sees the romantic gardens of the Rinascimento (Italian Renaissance) immortalised in a series of 100 one-ofa-kind pieces. The gardens’ geometric hedges and vibrant flowerbeds have been evoked through the floral jewel motifs and colourful stones, while the collection’s standout piece, Love’s Paradise (as worn by Carla Bruni at the launch in Florence last month), featuring a magnificent 125.35-carat sapphire at its heart, conveys the true romance of an era in which artists would attempt to explore new concepts of nature and art through their work. Giardini Italiani collection, POA Available at all Bulgari UK boutiques

Adorée collection, available at Paul Smith, 9 Albemarle Street, W1S nanafink.com

String to Her Bow

Cutting Edge Last year saw Tiffany & Co. enter into an exciting new age of design with the launch of its contemporary Tiffany T collection, created by newly-appointed design director Francesca Amfitheatrof. A year later and the distinctive, graphic symbol has evolved further into two new pieces, exclusive to Tiffany’s new boutique in Selfridges.

Tiffany T is an icon of a new era, a vision of simplicity and sculptural modernity. The latest combination of sterling silver and black ceramic in the wide contoured cutout cuff and ring exude power and confidence.

Tiffany T cutout cuff and ring in sterling silver and black ceramic, POA Exclusive to Selfridges

Having worked for the likes of De Beers and the Sotheby’s jewellery department, where she oversaw some of the auction house’s most memorable sales (including the jewels of the Duchess of Windsor and the Graff Pink), it’s fair to say that Vania Leles is an authority on fine jewellery. Leles went on to found her own jewellery brand in 2010, Vanleles Diamonds, which as of this summer has opened its first boutique in Mayfair. The store currently houses the five core collections, including Lyla’s Bow and Enchanted Garden, along with a bridal range and bespoke pieces, all of which combine the jeweller’s commitment to sourcing the finest quality, ethically-minded diamonds and gemstones with innovative design. Vanleles Diamonds By appointment only 174 New Bond Street, W1S; vanleles.com

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Raising the Bar Designers are pushing the boundaries of how to wear jewellery, giving rise to ear cuffs, finger rings and choker necklaces 1 Rose gold-plated five-finger ring, £190, Eddie Borgo, net-a-porter.com 2 White diamond and rose gold ring, £3,835, Ileana Makri, matchesfashion.com 3 Gold earrings, POA, Loewe, loewe. com 4 Olympia mid-finger diamond ring, £2,299, Carbon & Hyde, farfetch.com 5 Pearl hinged choker necklace, £210, Eddie Borgo, matchesfashion.com 6 Lady Borealis 18-karat gold diamond ear cuff, £3,600, Venyx, net-a-porter.com 7 Rose gold-plated Swarovski crystal ear cuff and stud earring, £230, Ryan Storer, net-a-porter.com 8 Diamond and pink gold mini ear cuff, £480, Elise Dray, matchesfashion.com 9 Silver and gold vermeil Quill cuff, £600, Shaun Leane, shaunleane.com 10 Vine ear cuff, £3,350, Diane Kordas, net-a-porter.com 11 Eternal circle ear cuff, £1,290, Woodbury, farfetch.com 12 Delphine gold-tone necklace, £520, Chloé net-a-porter.com 13 Izel 14-karat gold diamond earring, Lito, £2,100, net-a-porter.com 14 Portico cuff, £195, Lulu Frost, matchesfashion.com 15 18-karat rose gold diamond ear cuff, £1,720, Anita Ko, net-a-porter.com 16 Horn cuff, £6,190, Diane Kordas at Harrods, harrods.com 17 Silver and gold vermeil crossover finger Quill ring, £200, Shaun Leane, as before 18 Starburst cuff, £7,245, Diane Kordas, matchesfashion.com, 19 Heartbeat 18-karat rose gold diamond ear cuff, £1,030, Diane Kordas, net-a-porter.com 20 Open Shield ring, £4,480, Diane Kordas at Harrods 21 Koko open ring, £640, Selin Kent, farfetch.com

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ELIZABETH STREET ELIZABETH STREET SW1 SW1 Bespoke fine jewellery We invite you to visit our website www.devroomen.co.uk 59 Elizabeth Street, London, SW1W 9PP +44 (0)207 730 1901

Luck be a

Lady Born into a family of goldsmiths, Carolina Bucci was always destined for career greatness. Olivia Sharpe speaks to the jewellery designer as she celebrates her family businessâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 130th anniversary with a new collection, Superstellar

Photography: Rebecca Miller

COLLECTION

Carolina Bucci is a fortunate lady indeed. Born into a family of Italian goldsmiths, it was serendipitous, perhaps, that she didn’t consider doing anything but jewellery design: “I always knew it was something I wanted to do. It wasn’t imposed on me by any means but it never even occurred to me to do anything else.” Now a successful jeweller, she has by no means forgotten her roots. The Bucci family business was founded in Florence in 1885 and this year is its 130th anniversary; to celebrate, Carolina has created a collection entitled Superstellar. Having launched her company in 2007, Superstellar’s celestial theme seems apt given Carolina’s meteoric rise to success. And yet, the idea was actually conceived after she witnessed the astonishing annual Perseid meteor shower last August (the collection therefore, unusually, has its own birthday: 10 August 2014). As though she was being sent signs from above, Carolina began seeing stars everywhere, from Mario Schifano ‘60s artwork to Jasper Johns’ flag paintings. The star-studded range perfectly captures this natural phenomena through the explosion of dazzling gemstones on the random array of pieces, ranging from shield ‘pinky’ rings, chokers and ‘Life’ pendants. It was these pendants, based on diamond gauges, that Carolina designed first and include holes that have deliberately been left empty so that clients can customise them with their chosen stones. In many ways, Superstellar pays tribute to Carolina’s heritage. Several of the pieces have been made using the family’s vintage silk thread and the jeweller has also created a new Lucky bracelet (an iconic design of the Carolina Bucci house that is reinterpreted every year) to feature a miniature balloon charm. However, the jeweller has ensured that her own DNA has not been eclipsed. She has always wanted to “push the limits” in order to create something new and exciting; as she puts it, “if everyone were to make the safe version, it would be pretty boring.” Many of the Superstellar pieces therefore possess unconventional qualities, in particular the pearl necklaces. The jeweller last included pearls in the Nana collection eight years ago and she was initially reluctant to revisit them, finding them to be a challenging material: “They have a preconception of being very proper and traditional,” she explains. “So it was hard trying to capture a world where pearls are cool, fun and not traditional, while still not disrupting their form.” Carolina purposely used freshwater pearls because of their irregularities and imperfections, mixing the grey and white hues in a “non-symmetrical way” and punctuating them with multi-coloured pavé stars. The versatile pieces can be worn in a number of different fashions, either long, short or, in the case of the pearl scarf, tied around the neck with a knot. While her family wouldn’t think twice about

incorporating a traditional clasp into the design, Carolina was adamant about the matter: “I hate clasps,” she states, vehemently. “My family has always made traditional 18-karat jewellery so what I have created is quite foreign to them.” For the first time in years, the collection features chokers too, which arrive in two different sizes and are reversible. Finally, the range’s diamond studs are being sold separately, to be worn as single pieces or combined with others to encourage a mix-and-match approach. This passion for trying new things relates back to Carolina’s childhood when she would experiment in her family workshop. “I was always fascinated by the process of making jewellery,” she muses. “As early as my teens whenever I was given a gift by my parents I would say, ‘I love it’ but in turn think to myself, ‘how can I change it?’ That has been my nature from the very beginning.”

“Ultimately, it’s about creating nice jewellery. That’s the first thing that should attract people” Carolina has always stood firm in creating jewellery that she wants to wear, something that is “fun but fine”. Having never been allowed to wear costume jewellery growing up, her jewellery is in some ways a rebellion against this but at the same time retains its timelessness. “Wearing jewellery isn’t about being seasonal. It’s something that constantly evolves and expands as part of your personal collection.” Sitting opposite Carolina, I cannot fail to notice her eye-catching gold necklace, consisting of her favourite pieces from all her collections to date, including the Scarab charm, an owl from the Lucky collection and the newest addition, the Superstellar Drop pendant. Since launching her iconic Lucky bracelets 13 years ago, Carolina has often been struck by talismanic symbols but she assures me that she is by no means spiritual. “Ultimately, it’s about creating nice jewellery. That’s the first thing that needs to attract people.” While fortunate in her upbringing, she insists her career was never handed to her on a plate. “I was lucky to be born into a family of jewellers, yes. But we were three kids and we were never pushed into being involved in the business. From an early age, my father would make me work for it and have me do sketches for him.” At 21, Carolina went off to New York to study at the Fashion Institute of Technology and having already done the

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COLLECTION

preliminary groundwork, she was resolutely set on the path that she wanted to take and so would avoid taking certain classes, such as learning how to use CAD design, believing that it would be of no use to her in the long run. “I knew it wasn’t something that interested me. I was very focused and good at bargaining so my tutor would let me skip certain classes. I think there are some amazing techniques out there but they’re just not for me.” Her refusal to use modern techniques when designing extends to her personal life; despite having an iPhone, Carolina admits to favouring her paper diary. When it comes to the future of Carolina Bucci, the possibilities seem infinite. The jeweller is currently focused on growing her presence globally with more retail outlets but when it comes to London, Motcomb Street will remain the sole flagship. At the time, Carolina was advised not to set up shop here – she says it was then considered “the street of doom” for retailers (Jimmy Choo closed down here) – but she instinctively knew it was the right choice and, having the devil’s own luck it would seem, was proven correct. She is also working on a new project which, while keeping specific details close to her chest, hints will be under a separate umbrella from the Carolina Bucci brand with a “different attitude and price point” but will still possess “the same spirit”. Carolina’s determination to create her own signature aesthetic when it came to her eponymous jewellery brand has evidently paid off. She tells me how one of her favourite moments recently was when she was at a friend’s house and a lady there spotted one of her necklaces and, not knowing who she was, exclaimed how it was “very Carolina Bucci”. “It goes back to how I think designers should be”, she comments. “You should always make something that screams ‘you’ – that is recognisable, like an artist. When that happens I feel like I have done my job.” Superstellar collection, available from August Carolina Bucci, 4 Motcomb Street, SW1X 020 7838 9977; carolinabucci.com

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spotlight

indian summer With top quality, limited edition works at accessible prices, LUMAS is our go-to gallery for cutting-edge photographic prints. Focusing on the ‘liberation of art’, the South Molton Street gallery space rejects the white cube model, instead showcasing its wares in a domestic setting that looks and feels like a (very chic) private home. Of particular note, as well as access to the Vogue and Condé Nast archives, is the beautiful work of fashion photographer Lukáš Dvorák, who lives and works in Prague. He contrasts the beauty of his models’ feminine curves with a backdrop of spectacular, wild scenery and describes his style as simple. He avoids colour in his portraits because “black and whites feel more beautiful and charismatic; [as colours] they are better storytellers”. LUMAS, 57 South Molton Street, W1K; lumas.co.uk

Indian Autumn © Lukáš Dvorák LUMAS Gallery, 57 South Molton Street; lumas.co.uk

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Illustration: Mai Osawa

Feast Your Eyes

kensington

& chelsea

British artist Cornelia O’Donovan will be showcasing a curated collection of artworks commissioned especially for Anthropologie this August and alongside this, the home décor store has also created a collaborative collection encompassing six dessert plates and three art prints. O’Donovan’s 2D paintings have the effect of transporting a viewer into a world of mystical folklore, inspired by old tales that originate from the British Isles, such as Celtic poetry and myths. Resembling old tapestries and even comparable to rustic medieval frescoes, the works displayed at the FEAST’exhibition will be large-scale and beautifully immersive within the Anthropologie gallery space on the King’s Road. Dessert plates, £14; art prints, £168; FEAST will run until 25 August at Anthropologie, 131-141 Kings Road, SW3 anthropologie.eu

In the Long Run The Vitality WestRun is a new 10 kilometre run on the streets of West London, taking place bright and early at 9am on Sunday 4 October. A community festival for any type of runner of any age, the run will be a great experience to partake in with friends and family. Starting out in Eel Brook Common, the route will weave through the scenic sights of West London, including the New King's Road, Fulham Road, Parsons Green and Stamford Bridge. Luckily, roads will be closed so that runners can continue undeterred, cheered on by supportive spectators. There will also be a one-mile Family Fun Run, so parents and children can run together to achieve a WestRun Family Fun Run medal and a souvenir T-shirt. It may seem like a long way off but we advise you to start your training now to ensure you’re in the best shape by October. Early Bird price, 10K (unaffiliated entry) £35; Club Runners, 10K (affiliated entry): £33 Family Fun Run entry: £10 per person

spotlight on Kensington, Chelsea & knightsbridge: news, events, reviews & local interest stories

SPOTLIGHT

Up, Up and Away Erna Low, the ski holiday and property specialist based on Reece Mews since the 1950s, has collaborated with artist Johny Midnight to create a wonderful ski-inspired winter scene on a wall near the company's offices in South Kensington. A tribute to Low and her pioneering work within the UK ski industry, the mural, entitled Up Up and Away, was completed for the launch on 9 July in support of Cancer Caring Trust, having taken four weeks to paint. Expected to last several years, it showcases a sweet scene of happy skiers chatting on a ski lift with a picturesque snowy mountain as the backdrop. Erna Low, 9 Reece Mews, SW7 ernalow.co.uk

Vibrance of the Caribbean The streets of West London have been imbued with a burst of Caribbean flavour for more than 50 years thanks to the weekend party that is Notting Hill Carnival. It's back with its exuberant display of immersive live music, from the contagious beat of reggae to soca and calypso, fully-costumed dancers and the mouth-watering smell of jerk chicken around every corner. On the first day, the Panorama evening event will see national steel bands outdoing one another, while the second day, popularly known as Family Day, allows children the chance to enjoy the delights of Carnival. The grand finale on the Monday will be dedicated to a showcase of music and dance.

Sweet Talk Tony Award-nominated musical Sweet Charity, based on Federico Fellini’s screenplay for Nights of Cabiria, has been transformed into a concert version starring Denise Van Outen, Michael Xavier and Kimberley Walsh, accompanied by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and Arts Ed Chorale. Van Outen will be belting her way through the main role as New York dance hall hostess Charity, while Kimberly Walsh and Kerry Ellis play comedic roles as her two cynical girlfriends. With a feel-good score featuring wellknown classics such as Big Spender, the star-studded production will act as a great summer evening of musical entertainment.

Carnival, 29-31 August thelondonnottinghillcarnival.com

Sweet Charity, 19-22 August Cadogan Hall, 5 Sloane Terrace, SW1X 020 7730 4500 cadoganhall.com

Indian Stories

Tying in with the V&A India Festival, The Art of Indian Storytelling display brings to light the country’s centuries-old tradition of telling stories – for example, ancient Indian poetry like the Mahabharata and the Ramayana were passed down through generations in traditional forms of storytelling. As part of a larger exploration of India’s enduring rich history, this display features fascinating objects such as a Storyteller’s box, scroll paintings and playing cards (pictured) and showcases the many means of storytelling before the machine age. The V&A India Festival celebrates the 25th anniversary of the museum’s Nehru Gallery, which is home to the South Asian art collection. The Art of Indian Storytelling, 11 August 2015 – 24 January 2016; vam.ac.uk

spotlight on Kensington, Chelsea & knightsbridge: news, events, reviews & local interest stories

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Photography: Adam Husler

A Summer of Wellness For four consecutive Saturdays from 11 July, COMO Shambhala Urban Escape – the holistic wellbeing oasis at Metropolitan by COMO – has launched a Summer of Wellness campaign in association with luxury sportswear brand Lululemon Athletica. This will consist of complimentary yoga classes at 10am in Hyde Park, along with healthy refreshments and green juices served at the hotel, plus a series of talks by wellness experts on topics ranging from mindfulness to the Rolf method of structural integration. In addition, Dr Hauschka, Latest in Beauty and Hip & Healthy are joining the comprehensive schedule, with expert advice and goody bags in tow. Metropolitan by COMO, Old Park Lane, W1K comoshambhala.com

Photography: Adam Husler

A Building for Bookworms Having received the go-ahead from the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, North Kensington Library is now moving to a brand new building. The current Ladbroke Grove location is poorly insulated and also spread over three floors, which causes hassle for children and those with mobility issues. To solve this, the new ground-level space will be significantly larger and will boast an improved range of books, excellent Wi-Fi and IT equipment, and a dedicated space for children’s activities, quiet study and group meetings. The new building will be a pleasant, modern update for the much-valued 15,000 monthly visitors. rbkc.gov.uk/nklibrary

London Calling Founded in 1980, the award-winning Finborough Theatre will be running a production entitled We Know Where You Live throughout August. Written by Steven Hevey and directed by John Young, the production considers the changing face of London and follows the lives of couple Ben and Asma, who discover an area of the city that they feel has a rare, earthy character to it, only to find it promptly invaded by other enthusiasts, who subsequently transform it into a mainstream borough. A comment on gentrification, the play is truly eyeopening in the way that it touches upon a topic concerning many Londoners today. Finborough Theatre, 118 Finborough Road, SW10 Nine Sunday and Monday evenings from 2 August Tickets £18 (£16 concessions) Book online at finboroughtheatre.co.uk or call 0844 847 1652

spotlight on Kensington, Chelsea & knightsbridge: news, events, reviews & local interest stories

SPOTLIGHT

The Great Outdoors This August, we urge you to congregate with a group of friends and enjoy an unforgettable summer evening al fresco, being entertained by three of the best outdoor entertainment events that London has to offer. Made famous in the US but originating from Berlin, outdoor cinemas have been a popular summertime activity for a century. The Luna Cinema, from May to October, will be screening classic favourites at some of the most iconic venues in the country, including Kensington Palace and Opera Holland Park. Audiences are welcome to bring along their own blankets, picnics and drinks but fortunately, Luna Cinema has also arranged hot food and a full bar for movie-goers. In addition, premium tickets can be purchased, which guarantee a seat in a prime position, a drink at the Luna bar and a gift bag from DoubleTree by Hilton. ÂŠ Guy Bell

Part two of our top three is The Nomad Cinema, which includes the Grosvenor Film Festival in association with Chestertons. The Nomad Cinema donates 100 per cent of its distributable profits to The Sustainability Institute, which seeks to improve the lives of families living in Lynedoch Village in South Africa, so not only is it a wonderful evening out, it is also for a very worthy cause. We're particularly excited to see Grease at Belgrave Square on 12 September. Last but by no means least, we recommend Proms on The Roof at Kensington Roof Gardens, where musicians will be playing live classical music within the verdant surroundings. Book a ticket for one of two Wednesdays this summer (5 and 12 August), which will include a Tanqueray cocktail with Aperol and pink grapefruit. thelunacinema.com / whereisthenomad.com / roofgardens.com

spotlight on Kensington, Chelsea & knightsbridge: news, events, reviews & local interest stories

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At the

Heart

of the Matter

Annabel Harrison speaks to Kat Gordon after the launch of her debut novel, The Artificial Anatomy of Parks – a family drama about “a journey of love to loss and back again”

WHEN I TRANSCRIBE this interview, it sounds as though we’re characters in a film with the most rousing of soundtracks. We were due to meet in a café in the vicinity of Waterloo station – not glamorous, just convenient – but the sun is shining brightly so we decamp to the Jubilee Gardens on the South Bank. However, our arrival isn’t the timeliest; the International Military Music Festival is taking place and the Dutch

contingent has just launched into its drum-heavy opening number. At times we’re almost drowned out but it feels fitting to be in the (literally) beating heart of London when discussing a novel set here, and written by an author who has lived here all her life. Kat Gordon’s debut novel, The Artificial Anatomy of Parks, tells the story of Tallulah (‘Tallie’) Park; in the present day, now 21 years old, her life revolves around the repercussions of her father’s heart attack and subsequent time spent in the Marylebone Heart Hospital. Various windows into the past ensure that Tallie’s childhood – in Battersea and then Shropshire – is also unravelled, a tapestry of family secrets and tragic events given levity by a healthy dose of humorous dialogue and vibrantly drawn characters. The lens is firmly trained on the Park family, a world of “sniping aunts, precocious cousins, emigrant pianists and lots of gin, all presided over by an unconventional grandmother”. So did the title or idea come first? “The process was very organic,” Kat replies. “It was the third week of my Creative Writing MA and I was due to hand in ten pages on Monday but the weekend came around and I still hadn’t thought of anything. Two of my friends who are nurses were talking about the heart one evening and it was so fascinating – I had no idea that if you cut out a heart it can, in theory, continue beating – and I knew right then that I wanted to use the body as a metaphor for my characters’ emotional experiences. So I picked my friends’ brains, wrote ten pages and handed them in on the Monday.” I should mention at this point that I have known Kat for a decade now, as we had the fortune to cross

SPOTLIGHT

paths while reading English (her) and Classics (me) at Somerville College at Oxford, so I can say with authority that if anyone was destined to be an author, it’s Kat. Our rooms were opposite each other in halls and it wasn’t uncommon, night-owl that she was, to come back from an evening out to find her sitting on her bed at 2am, labouring over an essay. Kat laughs when I mention this. “Oxford helped me to write to a deadline! When you get an agent and editor, you really need to be on top of that. I learnt how to write cleanly because I didn’t have time to write a long essay and then cut it down.” When talking about literary influences, Kat is quick to answer. “In terms of coming-of-age narratives, I have to mention Harper Lee and Kate Atkinson – I read Behind the Scenes at the Museum when I was younger and loved it; it’s a family drama with such eccentric characters. I also love Karen

“I wanted to use the human body as a metaphor for my characters’ emotional experiences” Blixen (or Isak Dinesen, depending on which name she is using); her writing is so beautiful and lyrical.” These same words could be used to describe Kat’s book cover, designed by Simon Levey. “The benefit of being with a small, independent publisher like Legend is that they have a lot of time to work with you,” Kat points out. “I was shown three covers – although I don’t think this is the same for all authors – and I liked elements of all three, so I asked for those to be combined.” She confesses that she found naming her book the most difficult element of the process and it was her editor who suggested The Artificial Anatomy of Parks. “I really loved it because it worked on so many levels. Anatomy is a very close look at the structure of something, and this story is a very close, detailed autopsy of the Park family. It’s got a lot to do with dissection and at the beginning of my book, the family are all living disassociated lives.” In the midst of this family dissonance, Tallie’s father has a heart attack and thus the action is anchored in Marylebone. “The London Heart Hospital is very important to the plot although sadly it’s no longer there; it has moved to Barts, which is now a centre of excellence and all the specialists have gone there too. It was still in Marylebone when I was writing the book; it’s where Tallie’s father has worked all his life and where he is taken when he has his heart attack. Tallie spends almost the whole of the present day narrative at that hospital, waiting for calls from there – and walking through the streets of the local area.”

It is clear that Kat enjoyed bringing her characters to life and developing their back stories. Kensington is where Tallie’s aunt lives because “I thought that was perfect for Gillian’s character; she is very proper, well put together and enjoys the finer things in life”. Despite my assumption, having read and immensely enjoyed the book, that Tallie would be Kat’s favourite, she has a soft spot for the grandmother. “Matilda loves Murder She Wrote – as do I! She’s spiky and feisty and has some one-liners that I really enjoyed writing. She has a great relationship with Tallie and is a nice person at heart but she’s interesting too.” Could Maggie Smith play her, if a film were made of her book, I ask? “I’d love her to!” Before our time is up, we move on to discussing poetry and I ask Kat if she has any favourites that really resonate with her. Her choice is pertinent; “Keats and his On First Looking into Chapman’s Homer, which is all about reading something that really speaks to you, and moves you. I was blown away by the poem and how much what he is talking about is now my feeling and understanding too.” If you enjoy Kat’s debut novel, the next one, set in Africa, has already been written. I think it would be wonderful if Kat pursued her career ‘plan B’ as a sideline, given how much the people of Kensington and Chelsea love their pets: “Maybe I would be a professional cat photographer!” The Artificial Anatomy of Parks by Kat Gordon (Legend Press) is out now

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ART ANTIQUES BY Rebecca Wallersteiner

Out of the Ordinary Christie’s is renowned for the sale of extraordinary artefacts but it will set a new standard through its third, and appropriately named, Out of the Ordinary sale. This will astound us with a collection of iconic pieces, such as the historic running shoes Sir Roger Bannister wore to break the four-minute mile on 6 May 1954. They carry an estimate of £30,000 to £50,000 and will be presented for sale together with a letter of provenance signed by Sir Roger himself, who commented: “I could see there was an advantage in having the shoe as light as possible. The leather is extremely thin and the spikes are unusually thin, as I used a grindstone to make them even thinner. These shoes are the last tangible link I have with the four-minute mile.” He plans to donate part of the proceeds to a medical charity. Christie’s has arranged an extended pre-sale exhibition (3 August – 10 September) which will provide a great way of introducing teens to the fun of collecting art during the school holidays. Out of the Ordinary 10 September Christie’s, 85 Old Brompton Road, South Kensington christie’s.com

Sir Roger Bannister holding his running shoes © James Morton Haworth/Gramafilm Right / Sir Roger Bannister’s running shoes © Christie’s Images Limited 2015

with India Whalley, Director of the new Dot Project, about The Shape of Things exhibition Q. Who will feature in your next exhibition? A. The Shape of Things is the gallery’s second group exhibition and will present new work by artists Jane Bustin, Katrina Blannin, Selma Parlour and Tim Ellis. Q. As a young gallery, what attracted you to these artists’ work? A. All the contemporary artists featured use geometric abstraction as a starting point but all with different concerns. Their art examines forms, shapes and patterns in a way that delves into universal truths and investigates the plasticity of twodimensional painting. This is a pared-down art, which is controlled, refined and elemental. Q. What were the sources of inspiration for these new paintings? A. Blannin’s interest lies with diagrammatic, a kind of ‘mosaic’ of tessellated triangular forms and hexads, while Parlour is fascinated

Ellis creates work that mimics flags and banners. He folds and scuffs the paintings, making them seem to appear from a different time and era. Q. What is The Dot Project’s ethos? A. It is a forward-thinking innovative arts space, which presents new and globally recognised artists’ work to both established and emerging collectors. The gallery is more than a traditional art space; we aim to nurture the next generation of art collectors along with artists who inspire them.

by the pictorial qualities of surface, frame, flatness, transparency and trompe l’oeil illusion. Bustin’s works are more visual constructs than traditional paintings as she places painted wooden panels next to copper plates and paints around the edges to produce geometric patterns that oscillate and react off each other.

Q. What will future shows focus on? A. We aim to show the most exciting emerging and mid-level artists, working with a variety of media in solo and group, curated towards a global perspective. The Dot Project, 94 Fulham Road, SW3 6HS thedotproject.com

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ART ANTIQUES Photography: Jason Freeman

Splash of Pink At the Old Brompton Gallery this August, three emerging contemporary artists – Alexandros Vasmoulakis, Misha Milovanovich and Woozy – will unveil fresh works in Pink-Me-Ups!, an exhibition curated by Michaela Vergottis which explores exuberant colour, and especially pink. Vasmoulakis moves between London and Athens, where he is best known for his edgy street-art and murals; like Banksy, he paints directly onto walls, doors and even telephone boxes. In contrast, Belgrade-born Milovanovich works in sculpture and performance art and has received acclaim for her neon-painted Chewing Gum series. Athens-based Woozy is best known for his graffiti-inspired art commissioned for the Greek Olympic Games of 2004. Pink-Me-Ups!, 11am to 6pm on weekdays, 22 June – 7 September Old Brompton Gallery, SW5 ODE oldbromptongallery.com

Distant Horizons Feel inspired by some of the world’s most stunning contemporary travel images. Over six weeks, from 24 July, the Royal Geographical Society will present Travel Photographer of the Year, an exhibition of the latest winners of its popular annual competition. From sweeping landscapes and cityscapes to a study of a polar bear on the hunt and close-up details of the colourful plumage of exotic birds, some images are ethereal and beautiful, while others are gritty and challenging. This year’s overall winner, Philip Lee Harvey, has intrepidly journeyed to some of the world’s most inhospitable and demanding locations to photograph remote and elegant tribal people and rock-hewn churches. His striking images document the magnificence and beauty of this planet and its inhabitants.

Left: Woozy, Elizabeth Mixed media on canvas

Travel Photographer of the Year, 24 July – 5 September (free admission) Royal Geographical Society, 1 Kensington Gore, SW7 2AR; 020 7591 3000, tpoty.com

Design on a Summer Night The next Christie’s Lates in South Kensington will explore The Art of Interior Design, as part of the auction house’s 40th anniversary celebrations. Anna Evans, Director and Specialist Head of European Works of Art, comments: “Award-winning wallpaper designer Tracy Kendall will be talking about her unique, bespoke designs, what inspires her, the craftsmanship and the materials she uses to create beautiful walls. Also, the Christie’s Interiors team will be creating room sets within the salesrooms and explaining how to mix old and new when styling a home, putting © eventphotographyinlondon.co.uk a personal stamp on a space.” For interior design enthusiasts there’ll be a wealth of decorative objects, furniture and fine art in the salesrooms for inspiration. Christie’s Lates provide a great opportunity to chill out with friends and a glass of Prosecco while you find out what’s happening behind the scenes of the UK’s busiest salesroom. Anyone can drop in without prior booking. The Art of Interior Design: Tuesday 4 August, 6-8.30 pm (free admission) Christie’s South Kensington, 85 Old Brompton Road, SW7 3LD; christies.com/csk40

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After Dusk Expect an interesting crowd at Verses After Dusk, the Serpentine Gallery’s retrospective of London-born figurative painter Lynette Yiadom-Boakye’s work. Shortlisted for the Turner Prize in 2013, the artist draws inspiration from mysterious human figures that appear to exist outside a specific time and place. The fictional people in her paintings are composites, with their faces made up from different sources and caught in a moment left open to the projected imagination. Boakye’s painting techniques involve fast application of raw and muted colours, and among her influences she names Manet, Degas and Sickert. Her art raises timeless questions of identity and representation in art. Sought after by collectors, Yiadom-Boakye’s portraits are held in several prestigious galleries, the Tate and the V&A among them. Verses After Dusk, by Lynette Yiadom-Boakye 2 June – 13 September (free admission) The Serpentine Gallery, Kensington Gardens, W2 3XA 020 7402 6075; serpentinegalleries.org

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Lionel Bulmer, Windbreaks on the Beach

Gilles Gorriti, Biarritz

Auction Spotlight

Hot off the Press Rebecca Wallersteiner urges us to celebrate the sights of summer at Christie’s South Kensington this August Some stunningly summery works promise to result in a sizzling auction at Christie’s this month. The salesroom will be bursting with colour and curiosity as approximately 500 lots, comprising works of art, decorative objects and furniture, fall under the hammer. “Every month Christie’s South Kensington holds an Interiors auction filled with an extraordinary array of works,” explains James Richards, Head of Pictures, Christie’s Interiors. “In this month’s sale, we have a section dedicated to 20th and 21st century pictures”, he adds, and there will be something for all budgets as estimates range from £800 up to around £10,000. One of the highlights in the sale is Biarritz by contemporary French artist Gilles Gorriti; a vibrant, uplifting work which is most suitable for a holiday home. “Not only is it a strong, well-painted image, it also has great provenance and a beautiful frame,” says Richards. The picture draws inspiration from the brilliant light of the Côte d’Azur, where the artist has a studio. It highlights Gorriti’s genius as a colourist and his belief that, in creating mood and an emotional response in painting, colour is more important than subject alone. An avid disciple of the French Modernist movement and the son of renowned artist Paul Aizpiri, Gorriti was born in Paris in 1939 and he grew up observing and learning from his father. He had his first solo exhibition in Paris at the age of 17 and the following year, 1958, he joined the Salon d’Automne, where he has exhibited throughout

his career. Gorriti is also a talented guitarist and pianist, believing that music and painting are intertwined and can influence the creative process. A major figure in modern painting in France, Gorriti, now 76, continues to paint dazzling pictures, full of joie de vivre. Continuing the seasonal theme, another key work in the sale is Windbreaks by Lionel Bulmer. Born in 1919, Bulmer was the youngest child of an architect, who taught him to observe. He studied at Clapham Art School before moving onto the Royal College of Art (RCA) in Kensington where he met Margaret Green, who became his lifetime partner. “The two were inseparable and found their inspiration in West Suffolk, where they became a common sight, painting on the beaches of Walberswick and Southwold from the 1960s through to the 1990s,” comments Richards. A figurative painter, Green won numerous awards at the RCA, which financially supported the couple’s early life together. In later years her work became much sparer in design and colour, in contrast to her husband’s, which showed a more intensely coloured, Seurat-like pointillism. Green’s beautiful painting, Deck chair on the beach, figures and seagulls beyond, in the sale, is bound to put you in the mood for visiting the English seaside. Looking at their evocative pictures you can almost smell the sea and hear waves crashing against the rocks and gulls calling. Fans of fashion illustration will be dazzled by René Gruau’s exquisite Portrait of Maggy Sarrange sitting on a

ART

chair wearing a yellow dress and golden necklace. “This is a fabulous portrayal of the French singer and showgirl by Gruau, who died in 2004,” says Richards. The artist’s dramatic, sweeping, black lines and bold, solid colour encapsulate the optimism and opulence of post-war Europe. “Gruau is the eponymous fashion illustrator; the Italian’s lavish artwork, as exuberant as the fashion and models he portrayed, helped to define the rise of haute couture, revolutionising both the fashion industry and fashion illustration,” adds Richards. He worked with all the big names, including Givenchy, Balenciaga, Lanvin, Schiaparelli and Dior, as well as Marie Claire, Femina, Elle, Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar, and this work is a wonderful snapshot of the ambience of 1950s Paris. Gruau’s elegant drawings have recently enjoyed a resurgence of interest and they have been much sought-after by collectors. Leading contemporary fashion illustrator David Downton recently named Gruau as one of his important influences. If you are planning a summer holiday to Greece, don’t miss seeing Spyros Vassiliou’s ravishing painting of a summer evening in Mykonos, which will put you in a holiday mood. “Vassiliou has long had a large international following and is rightly considered one of Greece’s finest modern painters. I love the originality of his rather mystical and naïve style of landscape painting,” says Richards. The artist never lost touch with his humble roots and in fact it was the villagers of Galaxidi, where he was born, who clubbed together to collect money to send him to art school in Athens in 1921. His paintings are characterised by the unorthodox positioning of objects

inspired by everyday Greek village life and the people he grew up with. He paid homage to the Byzantine icon by painting symbols onto washes of gold, or sea-blue colour – rather like Greek religious art. The exciting works in this sale, capturing the sights and dreams of summer, are destined to make waves at Christie’s this August. Christie’s Interiors Sale, 18-19 August Christie’s South Kensington, 85 Old Brompton Road, SW7 3LD, 020 7839 9060; christies.com Rene Gruau, A portrait of Maggy Sarrange

Spyros Vassiliou, Mykonos All images courtesy of Christie’s Images Ltd. 2014

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The Roof Garden, showing central fountain connected by radial channels to four corner pools. Photography: Gary Otte

The Ismaili Centre,

Demystified Ashiana Pradhan delves into the history and design of the Ismaili Centre in the heart of South Kensington, described by Margaret Thatcher as â&#x20AC;&#x153;a splendid contribution to the architecture of Londonâ&#x20AC;? Residents of, and visitors to, the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea will have undoubtedly passed by the Ismaili Centre. It sits in the heart of Albertopolis, parallel to the V&A and Natural History Museum, and it is visible from the bustling South Kensington piazza. Yet there are probably few who know of its significance, its purpose or the rich history associated with the community that gathers there. With a discreet aesthetic when viewed from outside, the centre is a social, cultural and religious building, sacred to the Ismaili community for whom it was

built and the first of its kind in the Western world. So who are the Ismailis and what happens in this building that retains such a large piece of prominent London land? The Shia Imami Ismaili Muslims, of which there are approximately 15 million dispersed across 25 countries around the world, are a community of ethnically diverse people guided by their leader, the 49th hereditary Imam Karim Aga Khan. A peaceful and proud group of people, the community mirrors the private nature of their leader, who works tirelessly to improve the quality of life of the less fortunate around the world and has been granted the

SPOTLIGHT View from the Reading Room showing three fountains on axis of Roof Garden. Photography: Gary Otte

title of His Highness by the Queen, part of a long alliance between the Aga Khan family and the British Royal family, based on a mutual passion for race horses. His Highness the Aga Khan is one of those people whose voice and presence have the ability to silence and charm a crowd. In the face of enmity towards Islam and negative portrayal of Muslims in the media, the Aga Khan has maintained the innocuous disposition of his followers and has made serious steps towards pluralism and tolerance worldwide. The Aga Khan Foundation (AKF), part of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), has made a stupendous amount of progress in the most remote areas of the world, inhabited by the poorest of the poor, I am told by Christopher Wilton-Steer, who works in the London office of the AKF. One of these incredible projects, the Girls’ Education Challenge, has amassed £35 million to educate girls and train 4,000 teachers in 15 provinces across Afghanistan; as the Aga Khan explained at a conference about the turbulent country, these achievements are part of a journey towards a stable, peaceful and prosperous future. In the process of digging up details about the Ismaili Centre, I am transported back 30 years, to when German-born Muslim Karl Schlamminger was producing miniature versions of the ornamental features Details of the exterior architectural finishes Photography: Itho Josué

The Aga Khan sought an absolute reflection of spirituality and peace within every crevice he planned to create for the building and when the late Neville Conder of Casson Conder Architects, according to his wife Susan Conder, was engaging in creative debates with the Aga Khan about the Centre’s architecture. “Neville always preferred a client with a passion for the building and a particular vision. They really respected each other” Susan confides. Internalising these anecdotes allows me to view the building in a new light; I now see it as the infant idea it once was, an ambassadorial project so close to the Aga Khan’s heart that he sought an absolute reflection of spirituality and peace within every crevice. I am shown around by former vice president of the Ismaili Council for the UK, Nizam Abdulla, who was present at the opening of the Ismaili Centre attended by Margaret Thatcher in 1985. Situated on an island surrounded by traffic and accessible via its own walkway from South Kensington underground, the Ismaili Centre has sat here for three decades, designed by Conder so as not to be overbearing amongst the quintessentially British buildings, but still to be ‘otherly’ and full of authenticity.

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SPOTLIGHT

The outer foyer of the Ismaili Centre is the real introduction to the building. In the centre of the room sits a beautiful fountain designed by Schlamminger in Brazilian blue bahia granite and white marble, mirroring the floor pattern and introducing a viewer to the fundamental principles of Islamic design: an abundance of geometry, a linearity that promotes calmness, peace and continuity, and the rhetoric of Islam itself reflected through subtle facets. Beyond the fountain, the off-white wall that faces guests entering is covered with a calligraphic Arabic inscription in white, also designed by Schlamminger, which simply reads Bismillah (In the name of God). Moving through the inner foyer, I am faced with further subtleties that mark Islamic principles. There is a skylight at the top of the building, Nizam explains, that showers light down all the way to the ground floor as a tribute to charity and giving, whilst the continuous blue lines throughout the building speak to a unity between the spiritual and material world. After going up more steps, I reach the Centre’s single lavish-looking piece, a vast chandelier designed by Schlamminger, which has humble origins that trace back to bell-shaped lamps used in old-world Istanbul. Passing the Social Hall used for lectures, exhibitions and performances, I reach the Jamatkhana – prayer hall – a 1,250 capacity room that creates an overwhelming sense of calm and inner peace. Perhaps this comes courtesy of the muted blues and whites, the continuity of the geometric pattern, or the trelliswork of soft lighting that lead to Schlamminger’s vertical teak panels carved out in Arabic calligraphy. Last but not least, we reach the Charbagh roof garden at the top of the building, which is a sensory display of the Garden of Paradise, a Qur’anic image of the afterlife. The sound of trickling water, richly verdant surroundings, profusion of light and the streams of water leading to one fountain all contribute towards an idea of souls merging in a spiritual world. The presence of the Ismaili Centre in South Kensington is a permanent handshake between East and West, a building that strongly represents serenity, progress and history in its aesthetic language. It should not be the enigma that it seems to be. After all, the Aga Khan wished that the building be a catalyst for the eradication of ignorance and for greater wisdom and understanding of the Muslim world; he wished, ultimately, for it to be a valuable addition to the distinguished neighbourhood. And so it is. With special thanks to Shaheen Verjee, Nizam Abdulla, Susan Conder and Christopher Wilton-Steer theismaili.org

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Image courtesy of the Aga Khan Foundation

London Ismaili Centre 2007 Photography: Gary Otte

Image courtesy of the Aga Khan Foundation

Fountain pool in the Entrance Hall Photography: Gary Otte

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Scout Out At first glance, you could be forgiven for confusing Miu Miu’s Pre-Fall 2015 collection with the men’s line. After all, androgynous-looking models sporting walking shorts, plaid shirts and Sherlock Holmes-inspired hats don’t exactly scream femininity. And yet, the clever juxtaposition of masculine elements with the house’s signature retro prints showcases designer Miuccia Prada’s genius of making the ugly appear beautiful. While the ready-to-wear range contains several must-have pieces for the autumn, including patent leather raincoats and vintage black capelets, it is the handbags we have fallen in love with. Continuing in the manly vein, they include robust leather briefcases, shoulder bags and structured top handle bags, arriving in an autumnal colour palette of black, brown and burgundy. miumiu.com

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Get on your Goat One of the most talked-about aspects of Gucci’s Pre-Fall ‘15 show was undoubtedly its shaggy red goat coat. Having found its comfort zone in last season’s 1970s trend (an era often considered to have been Gucci’s heyday), creative director Frida Giannini has continued this theme in the house’s Pre-Fall collection, incorporating flared pants, suede jackets and printed chemisier dresses. This ‘70s throwback coat, arriving in Marsala red, makes the perfect statement when paired with cropped, tailored trousers and pointed, high-heeled brogues. Diamond hand-woven long hair goat coat, POA; gucci.com

HER STYLE By olivia sharpe

Fine-Tooth Comb

Céline Sweep In anticipation of the season ahead, Céline has wiped the slate clean and brought in a fresh set of fabrics in a variety of colour combinations for Pre-Fall 2015. The beautiful new limited edition Natural Calfskin collection arrives in autumnal shades of tan, taupe, khaki and burgundy, and in four shapes: the Camera, Sangle, Trotteur and Tab. The signature style for the Mount Street store is the Classic Bag, arriving in dark blue. Classic Bag, POA. Available at 103 Mount Street, W1K; celine.com

While its native country has been experiencing extreme austerity of late, this hasn’t prevented the economic growth of Greek fashion label Mary Katrantzou, which presented its first Pre-Fall collection this year. To mark the off-season, Katrantzou went a different way from her previous collections and had no specific theme. Despite this, the overall collection, available from August, undoubtedly has several overriding motifs, including the repetition of houndstooth, paisley and check patterns throughout. These heritage fabrics and prints have been reworked in playful and modern ways; for instance, the paisley pattern was created from a string of typewriter keys, while the houndstooth bricks have been cut from postage stamps. Key pieces from the range include a ‘60s-inspired houndstooth coat in red and blue, and the Kendrick dress featuring a violet paisley skirt and nude top. marykatrantzou.com

Gloves Off

Blade Runner

The famously outspoken Karl Lagerfeld may have once argued that “sweatpants are a sign of defeat. You lost control of your life so you bought some sweatpants”, but this has somehow not prevented the designer from creating a sportswear range with e-commerce site Zalando. In fairness to Lagerfeld, the 18-piece capsule collection, Sport City, is (true to form) incredibly chic, encompassing well-fitted dresses, sleek bomber jackets and platform trainers designed for the cosmopolitan girl who is always on the run. Looks like Karl’s got away with it once again.

A case in point that it only takes one iconic design to turn a fashion house into a legend is Italian footwear brand Casadei and its famous Blade heel. Since launching in 2011, it has become Casadei’s signature style and has been seen on everyone, from Victoria Beckham to Kristen Stewart and Jessica Biel. And now, the ultra-skinny stiletto is being given its own exclusive treatment at Harrods, where clients can create their own unique Blade pump by choosing from an array of possible colours and materials – from traditional suede and Napa leather to more exotic crocodile or python – right down to the type of lining, piping and additional embellishments. Finally, every customer will have her initials etched onto the sole of the shoe and will receive a Polaroid signed by Cesare Casadei himself.

From £34 to £330; zalando.co.uk

Available exclusively at Harrods from August 2015

Hot House To quote Miranda Priestly from The Devil’s Wear Prada, florals cannot be considered ground-breaking for spring; however, judging by Balmain’s Pre-Fall collection, this statement does not transcend all seasons. To straddle the gap between summer and winter, designer Olivier Rousteing has incorporated floral prints which are not for the wallflowers among us; hot red and ultraviolet perennials printed on billowing, wide-leg trousers, jumpsuits and dresses. Wild, unrestrained and irrefutably glamorous, we can’t wait to see what Rousteing has in store for A/W15. balmain.com

Raw Recruit Illustrations, popularly used in fashion publications in the 1920s before the dawn of photography, has been reawakened thanks to Prada and its new eyewear campaign. Rather than eyeing up well-known models to front the collection, the house called upon six illustrators – Carly Kuhn, Megan Hess, Blair Breitenstein, Judith van den Hoek, Wong Ping and Vida Vega (all of whom have made their names through Instagram) – to create its innovative digital experience, Raw Avenue. The virtual runway sees animated models sporting the latest Prada range of sunglasses. raw.prada.com

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Double vision

Hot on the heels of opening their first standalone store in Belgravia and new bespoke service, OLIVIA SHARPE catches up with the founders of luxury footwear brand Bionda Castana – Natalia Barbieri and Jennifer Portman – about their success to date

Natalia Barbieri and Jennifer Portman have proven to be a match made in heaven. The women behind luxury shoe brand Bionda Castana (translated as ‘blonde brunette’) met on their first day of business school in 1997 and immediately became firm friends, bonding over their shared love of shoes and accessories, and their half-English, half-Italian heritage. After brief stints working in the City, they decided (after saving up their bonuses) that it was time to quit their well-paid jobs and take a risk, launching their own business in 2007. Despite having no formal training, the dynamic design duo have truly landed on their feet, this year marking a particularly exciting next step as the brand opens its first standalone store in Belgravia. While wellplaced in terms of other luxury British fashion houses, joining the likes of Jenny Packham and Donna Ida, they hope to breathe a fresh lease of life into the

area as the first solely luxury footwear brand to open up shop. With their best-selling Lana single-soled pump, which has been sported by Keira Knightley, Alexa Chung and Olivia Palermo, not to mention their new bespoke shoe service, how could they possibly fail? You’ve extended your customisation service; why now? Natalia: Brands are focusing so much more now on ‘made for you’. Everyone wants their influence on something but ultimately the customer base is so big that sometimes we don’t make a particular style in the particular colour that a client wants. But with this service we can allow that to happen 95 per cent of the time and it makes our clients really happy. How are the roles divided between you? Natalia: The main thing we do together is design but we try not to overlap in other areas. Jenny primarily lives at the factory in Italy so if there was no Jenny there would

FASHION

be no shoes! I take on the responsibility of our voice to the world and branding. The roles have been nurtured from the beginning.

boyfriend jeans and white Air Max. There was a moment when I was trying to emulate that whole Rosy Perez look with hoop earrings but now I can’t get away with it!

How would you describe the woman who buys your shoes? Natalia: The two main women who feature heavily on our mood board are Alexa [Chung] and Marion Cotillard. They both put things together well without ever looking overly-stylised. I love that natural French flair.

Do you prefer wearing heels or flats day to day? Natalia: I’m currently in a mid-heel phase. Jennifer: On a daily basis I’m more often in a flat just because it’s easier trundling down the escalators! I think it’s more acceptable now because the flat and mid-heel shoes out there are much better in terms of design so you don’t have to compromise on style. They can be just as exciting as a six-inch stiletto.

Did you know when you started designing the Lana that it would become your signature style? Natalia: We pushed it as our signature on purpose because when we first designed Lana there was a real fashion for single-soled pumps but as an emerging brand you can’t get away with just doing a black suede version. You can get that anywhere, high and low end. So knowing the fashion was going in that direction, we had to play with a new design. We firstly created Lana in two colours but now we have an entire rainbow, as well as different materials and heel heights. I think what’s also important is that she’s very light and comfortable because of the soft mesh. With a fully leather lined shoe they can often feel too hard. Jennifer: There’s too many of us now who get away with designing uncomfortable shoes. I think what’s quite special about us is that we’re two women designing for women and I don’t know any other shoe brand quite like that. So if they’re not comfortable for us, why would we expect them to be for anyone else? They’re handmade in Milan and that lends itself to a better made shoe. Do you have any pet peeves when it comes to women’s shoes? Natalia: Clumpy ones. Anything that’s not particularly elegant. How would you describe your personal style? Jennifer: Nat referred to mine as tomboy chic the other day [laughing]. I think I’m more contemporary; I like to wear a cropped black trouser with pointed shoes. Natalia: I vary. I’m either in a black dress or I quite like the statement piece so I’ll wear a pink blazer paired with a white shirt and denim trousers. I try and keep it girly. The other day I was stocking up the store and the store manager came over to me and said, ‘Oh I love your look; you look very Jenny from the block!” I was wearing baggy

Do you follow trends? Jennifer: I think customers like to own a pair and have them for eternity; they’re not the ‘it’ shoe. You have to create your own trends. What are the key styles for A/W15? Natalia: We’ve got lots of lovely laser-cut and mid-heel styles. We didn’t go too heavy on prints but we’ve got quite a lot of metallic this season. Do you think you’ll branch out into other product categories? Jennifer: Much further down the line. For us what’s key at the moment is really establishing ourselves as a brand. Of course we’d like to extend to children’s, men’s or other soft accessories at some point. There’s no rush. You’ve done collaborations with the likes of Osman and Matthew Williamson; are there any other fashion houses you’d like to partner with? Natalia: There are brands I’d love to work with but we’d never have the opportunity because they already carry shoes. There are a few British brands I love, like Roksanda [Ilincic] and Erdem, both of which would be amazing to partner with. If you could go down in history for one thing, what would it be? Natalia: Hopefully that I’m still nice to people even when I’m stressed! I think being genuine and remaining humble is key. Bionda Castana, 73 Elizabeth Street, SW1W 020 7730 6207; biondacastana.com

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The

Secret

Garden The British summer is unpredictable, to say the least, so wrap up warm after hours in faux fur, brocade and shearling, using florals, colour and patterns to add a sunshine feel

Photographer:

Dominic Nicholls

Brocade coat, ÂŁ520, Paul & Joe, paulandjoe.com

Stylist:

Elizabeth Hoadley

Faux fur white coat, £1,295, DLUX, avenue32.com; Embellished checked dress, £4,450, Antonio Berardi, antonioberardi.com; Twin flower ring, £410, and cuff earrings, £875, both Jade Jagger, jadejagger.co.uk

Shearling coat, ÂŁ4,340, Erdem, erdem.com; Printed shirt (worn underneath), ÂŁ230, Theory, theory.com

Diorama bag in silver metallised calfskin, £2,150, Christian Dior, dior.com; Floral cloud brocade Pandora dress, £675, Markus Lupfer, markuslupfer.com; Faux fur brown coat, £995, REDValentino, blog.redvalentino.com

Allena coat, £838, DVF, dvf.com; Micro Be Dior bag in black creased patent leather, £1,800, Christian Dior, as before; Casanovella shoes in napa, Sirene glitter and patent, £675, Christian Louboutin, christianlouboutin.com

Peyton ornate mini dress, ÂŁ895, Vilshenko, netaporter.com; Multicolour faux fur gilet, ÂŁ590, Zadig & Voltaire, zadig-et-voltaire.com

Embroidered checked camel wool dress, ÂŁ4,900, Christian Dior, as before; Blue patent Ivon boots, ÂŁ565, Laurence Dacade, laurence-dacade.com stylist's assistant: Ellie McWhan hair & make-up: Freya Danson Hatcher using L'Occitane, MAC Cosmetics and Bumble and bumble photographer's assistant: Inna Kostukovsky MODEL: Livia @ M+P Models

Shot on location at the Welcombe Hotel, Spa and Golf Club, Stratfordupon-Avon; menzieshotels.co.uk

Bend It Like Belstaff

Mark in History

David Beckham’s second capsule collection with British brand Belstaff incorporates a vintage vibe mixed with modern cuts and luxurious finishes. Inspired by traditional aviation gear, the Ryde jacket is based on a classic 1940s aviator jacket with a tailored collar, while the Moore resembles the staple khaki flying bomber with a detachable faux fur collar. Injecting the former footballer’s own soughtafter style into the collection, Belstaff has blended casual T-shirts with stand-out pieces, such as the racer-style Stannard jacket with diamond quilting (as pictured here). With the addition of accessories – in this instance, suede panel gloves and a navy paisley print bandana – the collection is a perfect fusion of modernity and vintage cool.

Caran d’Ache’s centennial celebration has been marked with the release of its new five-piece collection of fountain pens in 18-karat gold, entitled Collection Privée. A tribute to the art of enamelling and the history of Geneva, each of the writing instruments has an enamel miniature hand-painted by Andrée Peaudecerf, one of the few decorative artists who employ this rare and intricate technique. Three of the fountain pens are named after leading figures in Geneva’s history who contributed to science, humanitarianism and music – Ernest Ansermet, Henri Dunant and Horace-Benedict de Saussure – while the other two mark the bicentenary of Geneva’s entry into the Swiss Confederation and Caran d’Ache’s 100th anniversary.

The Stannard jacket, £1,295 belstaff.co.uk

Each pen is priced at £68,000. Contact sales@stonegift.com for more details

HIS STYLE By ashiana pradhan

Best Foot Forward It has often been said that you can tell a lot about a man by his shoes and, with this in mind, it comes as no surprise that Harrods menswear will be homing in on footwear as part of its Made with Love campaign this August. Popular luxury brands including Jimmy Choo and Gucci will be presenting one-of-a-kind pairs and revamped signature styles, which will be sold exclusively at the department store. We are particularly taken with the Etro Oriental Club collection; the London gentlemen’s club influence is evident thanks to the use of tartan and paisley patterns paired with velvet and leather materials. The finishing flourish is the Harrods-green inner sole, a fitting nod to the iconic store. Made with Love collection, from 1 August Etro Oriental Club collection, from £435 to £540

In the Long Run Having called Knightsbridge home for just under a year, Bugatti Brand Lifestyle has now extended its Tailor Made bespoke service, already enjoyed by Bugatti car owners, to its wider clientele. You’ll be spoilt for choice in terms of luxe fabrics, bespoke linings, buttons and finishes and the service extends to include outerwear, footwear, bags, belts and small leather goods for both men and women. The end result is that all your Bugatti products are unique and made exactly the way you see fit. Bespoke models are produced in Italy, guaranteeing top quality. Bugatti Lifestyle Boutique 24-26 Brompton Road, SW1X lifestyle-bugatti.com

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STYLE: BEAUMONT MATERIAL: BLACK BOX CALF / BEECHNUT ANTIQUE CALF

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lifestyle

You Spin Me Round If you’re bored with the gym and yoga makes you yawn, head to The Berkeley for a feel-good fitness kick. The hotel has launched a series of hula hooping masterclasses, which take place in the open air around the rooftop pool to a pop-tastic soundtrack, with the greenery of Hyde Park as the panoramic backdrop. HulaFit founder Anna Byrne will lead you through a workout to tone your core muscles, starting with basic ‘waisthooping’ and progressing to moves that sound like they belong in a Beyoncé video, burning up to 600 calories an hour in the process. If that doesn’t keep you looking trim throughout the summer, we don’t know what will. Classes every Wednesday, 12-1pm, until 28 October, £65 The Berkeley, Wilton Place, SW1X; the-berkeley.co.uk

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Suppliers of quality bespoke doors and ironmongery to some of the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s finest homes. Showrooms: Esher, Surrey & Chelsea Harbour 01932 851 081 or 0207 376 7000 info@solidwoodendoors.com www.solidwoodendoors.com

& GARDEN

HOME

BY ashiana pradhan

Princely Pewter Designer pewter homeware has landed in Chelsea thanks to Malaysian family business Royal Selangor. It is marking its 130th anniversary with its first UK flagship and a new 8515 Anniversary Collection inspired by the company’s original artefacts, created more than a century ago. Royal Selangor has chosen the King’s Road as its store’s location due to its reputation as “one of London’s most significant retail addresses”, according to UK retail manager Paul Kennedy. In store you will find the brand’s wide variety of intricately-crafted keepsakes; the new collection boasts a gorgeous tea set (seen below, from £169). Royal Selangor, 261 King’s Road, SW3; royalselangor.com

See the Light Artisan of light Kevin Reilly is known for taking an innovative approach to lighting. He uses a technique whereby he carves out the inside of a candle and inserts a bulb in such a way that the surrounding wax doesn’t melt. The appeal of Reilly’s new collection of outdoor light fixtures becomes even more apparent at sundown, when their warm glow enhances the ambience of a warm summer evening outside. Kevin Reilly Lighting, 17 Chepstow Corner, 1 Pembridge Villas, W2; kevinreillylighting.com

On Tap THG Paris has acquired Bathrooms International and set up a lavish showroom on Pont Street. The space is dedicated to displaying a plethora of sublime bathroom fittings and taps that are as beautiful as precious ornaments; all of these have been designed either by THG’s product team or renowned brands such as Lalique, Baccarat and Daum Crystal. Delicate and feminine, Daum Crystal’s designs particularly stood out for us, as pictured here, incorporating a pink rose fixture that can be dotted around the bathroom on taps, lights and towel rails. Take it from us; Bathrooms International by THG is set to be the go-to destination for luxury bathrooms. THG Paris, 4 Pont Street, SW1X thgparis.com

A Silk Composition Tassinari & Chatel, renowned weavers of sumptuous silks based in Lyon, have debuted a collection inspired by the 19th century decorative style of their Italian neighbours. Marrying a sense of technological innovation with traditional savoir-faire, the brand’s new collection is divided into three distinct designs, two of which are dedicated to 19th century Italian opera composer, Giuseppe Verdi. The design, an opulent lampas made from 100 per cent silk, is available in four colours and is richly woven with patterns of oak leaves and pearls, while the Verdi Brocart motif takes things a step further by incorporating metallic gold threads to give a majestic element. Finishing off the collection with some variety, Vertige is a plain satin jaspé composed of silk organza warp thread and cotton weft, which is perfect for walling, curtains or light upholstery and is available in 25 colours. Verdi, £376 per metre; Verdi Brocart, £439 per metre; Vertige, £237 per metre Available from Lelievre, Design Centre Chelsea Harbour, SW10

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& GARDEN

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with leading luxury furniture designer Christopher Guy Q: In what ways has your international background contributed to your work? A: Living in and travelling around the South of France and Spain from an early age allowed me to observe and be exposed to various cultures. I embarked on my first design project in the South of France alongside my mother and stepfather; the fabulous surroundings of the Cote D’Azur were very inspirational and ignited my passion for design.

Photography: James McDonald

The Eagle Has Landed If you haven’t already done so, we highly recommend popping down to Alex Eagle on Walton Street, an eponymous concept store that verges on being a gallery, full of coveted treasures from industries that range from art and interiors to music and fashion. Having worked in the fashion world for several years, to say Alex Eagle herself has great taste would be an understatement. Albeit less vast than the Berlin store that was created in conjunction with Soho House, her Walton Street boutique is filled with a conglomeration of one-off pieces and exclusives that are constantly reshuffling – the coolest of which, we think, are the limited edition records provided by The Vinyl Factory. Step inside and see for yourselves. Alex Eagle, 91 Walton Street, SW3; alexeagle.co.uk

Bearing an Olive Branch Traditionally, olive branches are a symbol of peace and an offering of good will; in light of this, we feel that luxury brand Branche d’Olive could not live up to its name more. Our top two picks from the delightful range of home fragrances, namely the Rose Ancienne and Verveine scents, will fill your home with delicate waves of fresh scents for the summer. Rose Ancienne is a subtle ode to the much-loved smell of roses blended with a hint of jasmine for lightness, while Verveine is a fresh combination of zesty green citrus and soft musk. Hand-sourced mainly from France, the pretty products arrive at your door bearing an olive branch (for good will, if you will). £23.50; branche-dolive.com

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Q: You refurbished the Georgian Restaurant in Harrods last year; what is it about your designs that fit so beautifully within the department store? A: I believe that The Georgian is a landmark within Harrods. Out of numerous exciting projects, this one in particular has meant the most to me. Harrods is the global epicentre for luxury goods and the Christopher Guy style is one of sophistication and elegance so there is no better showcase for these – and now no better place for me to have lunch! Q: Which, out of all your show-stopping pieces to date are you most proud of? A: My greatest sense of achievement was designing a range of products that somehow have the CG DNA. Of these, the Chriscross legs are most identified with the brand. Q: How would you sum up your style in three words? A: Elegant, timeless and chic. Q: What can we expect from Christopher Guy in the forthcoming months? A: I am launching new designs at FOCUS/15, which will be available from the Design Centre Chelsea Harbour, where we launched our showroom last year. We also have some exciting projects in the pipeline, so watch this space!

Christopher Guy, Design Centre Chelsea Harbour SW10; christopherguy.com

OF CHELSEA OF CHELSEA OF CHELSEA

the best floorshow in town! STAND D61 the best floorshow in town! the best floorshow inSTAND town! D61 STAND D61

• Custom Carpet Designs • Rugs & Leather • Custom Carpet Hides Designs • Wool, Silk, Viscose Custom Carpet Designs Rugs &Carpet Leather Hides • •Custom Designs • Sisals & Grasses Rugs & Leather Hides Wool,&Silk, Viscose • •Rugs Leather Hides • Wool, Silk, Viscose Sisals & Grasses • •Wool, Silk, Viscose • Sisals & Grasses • Sisals & Grasses

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NOTTING HILL

2b Chepstow Road, Notting Hill, London W2 5BH

NOTTING Email: london@carpetsofchelsea.com NOTTINGHILL HILLTel. +44 (0)20 7221 1260 NOTTING HILL 2b Chepstow Road, Notting Hill, London W2 5BH 2 Chepstow Road,Notting NottingHill, Hill,London LondonW2 W2 5BH 5BH www.carpetsofchelsea.com 2bb Chepstow Road, Email: london@carpetsofchelsea.com Tel. +44 (0)20 7221 1260 Email: london@carpetsofchelsea.com Tel. +44 (0)20 7221 1260 www.carpetsofchelsea.com www.carpetsofchelsea.com Capitol Carpets fp.indd 1 04/09/2014

15:47

LIFESTYLE

Journey

South

Take a look behind the scenes at the stylish South Kensington Club as it launches its Sicilian-inspired offering to decide if membership here is a must-have. Annabel Harrison and Ashiana Pradhan report With its patisseries, Gallic bookshops, chic French families and, of course, the Lycée Français Charles de Gaulle, South Kensington has long seemed like a charming little corner of Paris, which has found its niche in south-west London. With the arrival of the South Kensington Club, however, founder Luca Del Bono has introduced a game changer, whereby Italian and Sicilian influences take centre stage. The Club, which can be found in the Georgian building that once housed the infamous Harrington Club, is entirely free from the overbearing opulence that often engulfs private members’ clubs, more like a rustic little Sicily and accessible only to those who know what lies beyond the lion-shaped door knockers. Priding itself on a devotion to authenticity, the Club is wholly inspired by Mediterranean traditions, style and cuisine, with a sense of Sicilian spirit at its core, and as summer is in full swing, we think this sounds pretty marvellous.

Drinking & Dining Ascend the off-white marble stairs upon entering the club and you will be presented with two options; the South Juices Bar on the left and the Club Sitting Room Bar on the right – offering members a choice between a cleansing drink and a cocktail. We’d have expected the cocktail option to win hands down but the Club has created its own range of temptingly fresh, cold-pressed raw juices, combining rejuvenating fruits and vegetables, and you can even sit outside on the sun-soaked terrace while you enjoy them. While you’re on this health kick, scamper off to be assessed by the Club’s in-house nutritionist, who will recommend a bespoke juice cleanse which can be delivered to your home. Choose cocktails, though, and you’ll be led into a polished lounge which has a charming old-world atmosphere and a homely feel; here members can

play backgammon with friends, sit back with an Old Fashioned or simply enjoy the mellow live music. The Club’s restaurant operates just as smoothly as a post-treatment or work-out lunch spot and romantic dinner space that wholly reflects the culinary codes of the Mediterranean, from the exquisite, copper-covered, wood-burning oven and linen placemats to the authentic Italian cuisine. The menu highlights caviar and kamut (khorasan grain, said to be a healthier wheat) pizzas as the star dishes; however, if you ask food and beverage manager Sergio Polizzi, he will recommend the garlicdrenched, utterly delicious linguine vongole, and the fresh salads sound tempting for those looking to take a more veggie-based approach. Expect dishes with a zesty undertone too, as indicated by the fresh lemon that rests on a wooden bowl by a candle at every table.

The Voyager Programme The founders of SKC are clearly keen that their members will be men and women with wanderlust and a thirst for adventure because, unusually for a members’ club, it

Sample the star dish – caviar pizza – or delicious, garlicdrenched linguine vongole offers a Voyager Programme, which caters to thrillseekers and jet-setters with enticing, once-in-a-lifetime travel experiences. The Voyager Club Room is conveniently located right next to the cocktail bar, so that you can settle down with a long drink and make grand plans, inspired by the maps, travel books and trinkets that surround you. It’s also where internationallyrenowned adventurers will inform and excite the Club’s

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erudite members (and perhaps ignite a zest for exploring in the disinterested) at monthly lectures. With impressive Arctic explorer Christina Franco – who declares on her website that “a dream can only become reality when your belief and desire are coupled with the confidence that comes from experience” – at the helm as the main organiser, the Voyager Programme sets out to encourage like-minded people to congregate and participate in bespoke expeditions, the next of which is a journey over the Tuscan Hills on vintage bicycles in October. Not ready for that kind of physical challenge? No problem. The Club can arrange a physical preparation programme, tailor-made for you by in-house therapists and fitness trainers; time to break into a sweat.

town can pop in to give their look a pop of glamour. If you want to partake in more active pursuits, sign up for Pilates, yoga, dance or barre classes. To ensure you don’t slack off, book in to see a personal trainer or sign up to a Voyager Programme regime, as mentioned above; these promise to get you Hiking, Bikini or Cycle Fit. For aching muscles, the deep tissue massage (£95, 60 minutes) works wonders; the treatment rooms are cosy and comfortable, and the brilliant therapist Karolina is more than capable of pressing, pushing and pummelling your knotted muscles into submission. Yes, this sounds like our kind of place. Sign us up. South Kensington Club, 38-42 Harrington Road, SW7 3ND 020 3006 6868; southkensingtonclub.com

Health & Wellness The SKC is, as its website proclaims, “inspired by a spirit of adventure and a multicultural perspective” and thus many of the health, beauty, wellness and fitness facilities reflect this. The Bathhouse (opening later this summer) will be home to a traditional Russian banya (a type of sauna, for those who have never encountered one), a Turkish hammam and the requisite spa plunge pool. There’ll be a Watsu Pool too; it’s a Marmite type of aquatic therapy, according to our editor, but don’t knock it until you’ve tried it as you may well be won over. The menu of body and beauty treatments, which includes everything from facials and anti-ageing solutions to manicures, pedicures and massages, offers exactly what you’d expect from a fully equipped London spa, and more. The Gentlemen’s Corner provides treatments “for the urban male” and the Blow-Dry Bar is open all day, so early morning gym bunnies can arrive at work looking immaculate and those going out for an evening on the

The Costs & Perks • £3,500 per year for full membership • £2,800 per year for overseas members and under-30s • International club partnerships with Brody Studios in Budapest, Le Saint James in Paris, The Clubhouse Rio and The Clubhouse Buenos Aires. Members will also have hotel room benefits. Partnerships in the pipeline include clubs in Shanghai, Hong Kong, Madrid and Athens. • Local partnerships with Will to Win tennis courts in Hyde Park, swimming and squash at Imperial College and British Polo Day tickets • Members receive 20 per cent off all rooms at London’s Blakes Hotel

LIFESTYLE

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HEALTH BEAUTY BY OLIVIA SHARPE

You Never Can Tell Rather than attempting to emulate the deep-set tan that can only realistically be achieved after a lengthy stint on the beach, makeup artist Bobbi Brown has looked to one of her favourite holiday destinations, Telluride in Colorado, drawing on its natural beauty and the subtle golden glow of the late afternoon sun, to create her latest summer make-up range. As part of the collection, the brand’s best-selling cream blushes have been reinvented in two never-before-seen shades. We particularly love Telluride, which gives a lovely warm mauve when lightly applied to cheeks. Telluride Pot Rouge for Lips & Cheeks, £19.50 Available from 16 July; bobbibrown.co.uk

Face Off At the Ready Retain your tan until the arrival of autumn by booking yourself into The Studio by James Read at Harvey Nichols. The UK’s leading tanning expert is responsible for the bronzed glows of countless female celebrities – from Lara Stone to last month’s K&C interviewee Rosie Huntington-Whiteley – so you can rest assured that you’ll achieve a natural, streak-free tan. Thanks to Read’s innovative layering technique, it won't noticeably fade. The Studio by James Read Harvey Nichols Fourth Floor 109-125 Knightsbridge SW1X 020 7201 9606 jamesreadtan.com/the-studio

One of the biggest beauty trends we have witnessed on the runway this year is the ‘no make-up look’. Drawing on this, pioneer of science Dr Perricone has now made our morning routines a whole lot simpler by creating a No Make-up Skincare range that contains a breakthrough anti-ageing formulation designed to restore skin’s youthful colour and return it to a healthy, radiant state. It also claims to help to sculpt the appearance of one’s facial architecture. Each of the products, ranging from the No Foundation Foundation Serum to the No Lipstick Lipstick, contain skin-benefiting ingredients; for instance, the No Bronzer Bronzer is packed full of Vitamin C Ester, which promises to impart a warm glow to your skin. Perricone MD No Makeup Skincare collection; perriconeMD.co.uk

Rain Check Burberry CEO Christopher Bailey has encountered the sweet smell of success since making the decision to bring the British fashion house’s perfume production in-house. Launched last year, the My Burberry scent – created in collaboration with French perfumer Francis Kurkdjian – flew off the shelves, no doubt helped by its eye-catching Mario Testino campaign starring Kate Moss and Cara Delevingne. Continuing the fragrance story, Burberry has released My Burberry Eau de Toilette, which once again captures the fresh smell of a spring blossom garden after it has rained and arrives in the classic glass bottle, which takes its inspiration from the iconic Burberry trench coat. My Burberry Eau de Toilette, £75 for 90ml burberry.com

Editor's Pick: When East Meets West We are bombarded on a daily basis by ads promoting the concept of ‘antiageing’ so it’s wonderfully refreshing to hear John Tsagaris telling me, in softly-accented tones, he doesn’t believe in the concept of anti-ageing at all. “We are too neurotic! We should embrace ageing, and the wisdom that comes with it, adapting to our body’s changes rather than fighting them”. Greek by birth, John has been practising traditional Chinese medicine in the UK for 24 years and sees lots of similarities with his type of Chinese medicine and ancient Greek practices. I enjoy a delightfully relaxing Skin Poetry facial, during which John advises me to opt for serum over moisturiser and gives my skin a truly fresh look. I can certainly see why most of his customers return; they’re in very safe hands. The John Tsagaris Clinic, 24 Godfrey Street, Chelsea, SW3 3SX 020 3489 9779; johntsagaris.co.uk

Care a Fig One of its best-selling products, the luxurious bath foam by Lilou et Loic has been reinvigorated this year thanks to a tantalising new scent, comprising fruity notes of fig, rhubarb and heady leather. But it is not just its quality ingredients that have resulted in Lilou et Loic quickly becoming the must-have brand to feature in one's bathroom. All of its bath foams are presented in elegant, handmade glass decanters, ready for creating the perfect ambience the next time you choose to indulge in a relaxing soak. Bath Foam in Fig, Rhubarb & Leather, £95 lilouetloic.com

Raising Eyebrows

Sloane Ranger It was the natural choice for Jo Malone, as the quintessential British bespoke fragrance house, to set up its flagship boutique on one of London’s most iconic shopping destinations, Sloane Street. Having been recently redone in the brand’s classic cream and black colours and kitted out with all of the latest products, including the recently revamped London Incense & Cedrat cologne, now you can also enjoy a relaxing hand and arm massage at the new tasting bar when you pop in store. Incense & Cedrat Cologne, £105 for 100ml Jo Malone, 150 Sloane Street, SW1X; jomalone.com

In the blink of an eye, award-winning brow bar Blink has gone from founder Vanita Parti’s business idea to London’s go-to brow destination. Having launched 22 bars in the UK in the space of ten years, not to mention an impressive line-up of beauty products, Parti is still on a roll; to celebrate her company’s tenth anniversary, she has opened Blink’s first flagship on Ledbury Road. The boutique offers the full range of Blink products and services (which not only includes brow treatments but also manicures and pedicures), along with refreshments such as the new Brow Wow Juice. Created in collaboration with premier cold press juice company Roots & Bulbs, the refreshing drink is filled with ingredients that supposedly stimulate brow growth. blinkbrowbar, 51 Ledbury Road, W11; blinkbrowbar.com

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Kids KINGDOM BY ASHIANA PRADHAN

A New Dragons’ Den Having delighted the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea for more than 30 years with its hand-painted children’s furniture, Dragons has previously had a lair on both Walton Street and Beauchamp Place but has now chosen to relocate to a brand new showroom (very fittingly, we think) within Harrods. With the majority of furniture built by British master carpenters and beautifully painted in West Sussex, Dragons has proved its expertise in woods, fabric, upholstery, and stunning paintwork that stands the test of time, so it is no surprise that it is a firm favourite of the Royal family. Dragons will undoubtedly be a welcome addition to Harrods, not least because of its exclusive licences for hand-painting Paddington Bear, The Flower Fairies and Beatrix Potter’s Peter Rabbit onto furniture. Harrods, Brompton Road, SW1X; harrods.com

It’s Showtime!

Tots Town KidZania, a global phenomenon, has come to the UK to make children’s ambitions and dreams, in terms of future jobs, a reality. Located in Westfield London, it will offer an educational entertainment experience, covering a whopping 75,000 sq. ft., where children can try out more than 60 professions, thanks to establishments such as H&M and British Airways, learning about the intricate processes of these large-scale companies and participating in fun and authentic role-plays. KidZania is a theme park with a difference; instead of rides and short-lived thrills, children will be encouraged to learn about the real world in a space that is both engaging and unforgettable. Open from 25 June at Westfield London

For the entirety of August, the not-for-profit organisation Society of London Theatre will be running its annual initiative for children, which offers them free tickets to 40 of the best London shows. With the aim of promoting the magic of live theatre, Kids Week allows children aged 16 or under complimentary entry when accompanied by a paying adult. Additionally, there are numerous events and activities being held, including Billy Elliot ballet classes and a storytelling workshop in association with I Believe in Unicorns. Included in the extensive line-up is also the West End premiere of the family musical, Three Little Pigs, starring Simon Webbe, which will play at The Palace Theatre for one month from 5 August. kidsweek.co.uk

Come Rain or Shine French brands K-Way and Petit Bateau have teamed up to create a chic yet practical striped rain mac, which is based on the original pac-a-mac designed in Paris by K-Way’s creator Léon-Claude Duhamel in the mid-60s. Incorporating Petit Bateau’s signature marinière style with classic white and navy sailor stripes and the brand’s finest cotton, these new macs are ultra-lightweight and conveniently packable into their own knapsack, which offers an ideal solution to the unpredictability of British summertime. Available in unisex adult and children’s sizes, the whole family can be decked out in matching ensembles – adorable.

Hide and Sleep Dutch design company Wood has created a unique new cupboard-style bed as part of Cuckooland’s range of luxury bedroom furniture for kids. With folding doors that reveal an inner cabin, shelves to store bedside essentials and a snug, enclosed design that encourages restful sleep, the fun sleep station comes in two designs: white with heart cut-outs or grey with star cut-outs. Made of sleek pine and crafted in Holland, this bed for boys or girls offers an ideal blend of aesthetically pleasing design, amusement and practicality – not to mention it’s perfect for hide and seek! £545; cuckooland.com

Available from 17 August; prices from £39 Petit Bateau, 106-108 Kings Road, SW3; petit-bateau.co.u

Mess Around Gallery Mess at the Saatchi Gallery has introduced a fun family activity for the summer holidays that encourages creativity with the lovely addition of afternoon tea. Running until the end of September, children are guided through the intricate art of origami and while they are engrossed in folding paper, an afternoon tea with sandwiches, scones and cream, macaroons and colourful cakes is also served. As they sip on babyccinos, adults needn’t feel left out; choose from a selection of fine teas or opt for a glass of Prosecco. Gallery Mess, King’s Road, SW3 saatchigallery.com/gallerymess

Not on your Nelly Betsy Benn, known for creating bespoke typographic prints and canvases, has launched a new three-part series of prints for children’s rooms and playrooms. These include a bold Nelly the Elephant print (which reads “The jungle was wild and brilliant of course but Nelly missed the children and the candyfloss”), a Rainbow Cars print featuring neat rows of colourful cars, and our personal favourite; the New Baby print. A great gift for new parents – or to mark the allimportant arrival of your own baby – the print (pictured here) is personalised with birth details, including date, place, time, weight and his/her name, with the added option of having it custom-framed in sleek black wood with an accompanying black mountboard. New Baby personalised print, £55 Nelly the Elephant kids fine art print, £25 Rainbow Cars fine art print, £35 betsybenn.co.uk

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high life

True Romance The press release asks: could these be the most romantic suites in the Mediterranean? We think they might well be. Cap Rocat in Mallorca is dreamy already; it’s a 19th century military fortress, complete with the original drawbridge, which has been converted into a luxurious, sun-soaked hideaway. Originally surveillance points hewn into the rock face, the three new suites are aptly named the Sentinels and the design is both natural and spectacular. Large mirrors reflect the azure Bay of Palma and terraces, with their own plunge pools and plush day beds, have Plexiglass walls to maximise the view. These cannot be seen by anyone on land or at sea, ensuring absolute privacy for those keen on romantic dips à deux, sunbathing au naturel and alfresco breakfasts. Romantic? Definitely. From €900 per night; caprocat.com

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Travel

THE WORLD BY annabel harrison

Grapes of Wrath For the location of its first venture in Europe, Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas has chosen the picturesque UNESCO World Heritage area of the Douro Valley in Portugal. What makes this opening particularly exciting is the hotel’s Wine Library; here oenophiles can learn more about (and, more importantly, sample) leading vintages in the region under the tutelage of the in-house sommelier and local winemakers. We suggest you kick back with a glass of wine and tapas after a wine-based treatment at the Six Senses Spa, which sounds like a most appealing (and sleepinducing) experience. The outdoor swimming pool has heavenly views so take a good book and revel in the rustic, indulgent luxury that this beautiful 19th century manor house has to offer. Opens on 15 July; sixsenses.com

A Warm Welcombe No summer season would be complete without some alfresco dining and the English countryside is the perfect place to do it. The Welcombe Hotel is a picturesque, Jacobean-style country house retreat close to the historic town of Stratford-Upon-Avon, complete with beautiful four-poster bedroom suites, an 18-hole championship golf course and an award-winning restaurant. The Summer Garden Afternoon Gin Tea (£29.50 per person) includes a refreshing Hendricks gin and tonic, quirkily presented in a china teapot over ice and lemon, alongside luxury finger sandwiches, miniature open rolls, freshly baked scones and delicate sweet treats, as well as as much loose leaf tea or coffee as you like. The Welcombe Hotel is only two hours from London, so treat yourself to a luxurious countryside break and return feeling ready for city life once again.

Touch of an Angell If you favour hotel abodes that are light, bright and beautiful, the Berkeley’s new Chelsea suites are just the ticket. They’re the work of design maven Robert Angell, who spent 15 years at the renowned David Collins Studio and has worked his magic on projects for Burberry and the Savoy, making the most of his trademark palette of soft, warm colours. Expect the suites to be modern (with flatscreen TVs and fast, free Wi-Fi, both of which we’d expect from suites of this calibre), spacious (at 66 sq. m.) and full of light; they overlook peaceful Wilton Place. Settle down with tea in your sitting-room, while appreciating the fresh flowers by uber-cool florist McQueens, then head down to the Blue Bar for a cool cocktail before supper in Marcus. From £1,860; the-berkeley.co.uk

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Luxury Summer Countryside Escape, from £125 per person (based on two sharing), includes overnight stay, breakfast, use of spa and golf club facilities and Summer Garden Afternoon Gin Tea; 01789 295252 / welcombe@menzieshotels.co.uk

When East Meets

West

Annabel Harrison visits the Mandarin Oriental Bodrum, an expansive site on the Aegean coastline that blends Turkish and Asian influence to great effect, for a romantic, relaxing long weekend

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odrum has been mentioned a lot in the press recently, and not because of its brilliant-blue sea, imposingly craggy coastline or the beautiful 15th century castle in the centre of town. A certain Miss Moss got into a spot of bother with the crew on a budget airline, reputedly due to a lack of sandwiches on board, and her antisocial antics thrust Bodrum into the media spotlight. However, this is no bad thing, as it’s a wonderful European holiday destination, bathed in sunshine almost year-round, which can be overlooked in favour of the more predictable triumvirate of France, Italy and Spain. It’s less than a four-hour flight from the UK and located on the west coast of Turkey, near the popular Greek island of Kos (and more than 1,000km from Syria, if you have concerns about visiting this region). My new husband and I are heading to the Mandarin Oriental Bodrum, which opened only last year, and I have high hopes. In 2014, I visited Mandarin Oriental Tokyo and I was blown away by the food, service, design and overall attention to detail, so I’m looking forward to seeing how this European resort-style hotel differs from an urban Asian property. We start our ‘minimoon’ on a good note; our charming driver apologises profusely for the lack of sunshine when he meets us (despite being unable to control the weather) but, as we wind around the Bodrum Peninsula, flanked by azure ocean stretching miles into the distance, the sun peeks out from behind the clouds and by the time we get to the hotel, it’s gloriously sunny. “It is shining for you!” our driver declares with what sounds like genuine delight. He needn’t have worried; not even actual rain can rain on our parade during our four-day stay. As newlyweds, basking in the aftermath of a resoundingly brilliant wedding weekend, we’re already on cloud nine, and it turns out that the Mandarin Oriental is a rather excellent place for indulging in the cloud nine kind of feeling. The hotel certainly ups the romantic ante for those on honeymoon; when we arrive at our room, there are towels made into the shape of swans, surrounded by rose petals on the bed, mounds of Turkish sweet treats, an enormous fruit platter and a decadent chocolate ganache cake iced with a congratulatory message. And we so happily indulge. I consider it the mark of a truly great five-star hotel if it provides rooms that you could gladly stay in all day if the weather doesn’t play ball, and our

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Sea View room (one of 109 rooms, suites and villas) fulfils this requirement with an emphatic swoosh. It’s incredibly spacious and filled with natural light thanks to a glass ceiling above the oversized, freestanding bathtub and floor-to-ceiling windows. Sleek, teak panels (which slide to close off, or merge, the dressing, bathing and sleeping areas) and wooden floors imbue the otherwise neutral colours with warmth, and oriental elements, such as woven leather headboards and beautifully soft kimono robes, complement Turkish rugs and local materials. Wi-fi is fast and free, there’s a fully stocked tea and coffee station and – a lovely touch – fresh fruit is delivered daily. And this is without even mentioning the epic view from the balcony; Zain and I raise a glass of champagne against a panoramic backdrop of blue, sea and sky separated only by a hazy line of mountains in the distance. The site is located in the aptly named Paradise Bay and covers 148 acres, so it feels both expansive – hop in a hotel golf buggy if walking becomes too tiring – and immersive; even if you don’t venture

We eschew Italian wine in favour of Turkish; the Prodom Misket is so good that we have it twice beyond the perimeter, there is so much to explore that it takes us days. The rooms and suites are all set back from the water amid lush green foliage, while speckling the coastline are a veritable feast of dining options – Assaggio (Italian), Bodrum Balikcisi (Turkish), Kurochan (Japanese), and Juju and Sofra (Mediterranean). Assaggio, which at night is lantern-lit romantic, serves up pleasingly hearty Italian food. Choose from burrata, panzanella, polpo (octopus), carpaccio or finocchi (prawn) antipasti; the generous portions are reasonably priced at £9 to £15. Not filling up too much on the more-ish fresh bread is difficult on both occasions that we dine at Assaggio. The pasta and risotto options are all fish or cheese-based and the ‘secondi’ comprise steak, sea bass and lamb chop, catering more for the carnivores. Zain fares very well with his medium-rare 28-day-aged steak but I ask for mine medium, a mistake on my part because it’s then too tough. Save space for dessert; the tiramisu served in a martini glass is a winner (even though I don’t usually like coffee flavours). We eschew Italian wine in favour of Turkish and the Prodom Misket is so good that we have it again the next evening. However, before more food and wine can be enjoyed, the spa awaits us during daylight hours. Mandarin Oriental hotels, in my opinion, house some

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of the world’s best spas and this 2,700 sq. m. temple to wellness and pampering is no exception. There are traditional Turkish hammam experiences on offer (Oriental Hammam Ritual, one hour, £164), as well as therapeutic massages; Micharee is my fantastic therapist for the signature Oriental Essence massage (50/80 minutes – £100/£143) and the treatment rooms are beautiful, with plush, soft beds. The signature product line is by Aromatherapy Associates – with natural ingredients and paraben-free – and the robes provided are the softest, most luxurious I have ever encountered in a spa. The fitness and wellness centre seems popular too; although it’s Zain who uses it, not me, I notice a higher than usual number of guests passing by in luxury work-out attire. If you really want to indulge with your loved one, book into the VIP Spa Suite; Couples’ Suite Experiences start from £610 for three hours. Blissed out (me) and worked out (Zain) we head to the beach for some downtime. The two-kilometre stretch of private coastline is quite a coup for the hotel – it’s unusual in this area – and it’s taken care of impeccably; the water is fringed with a bank of white pebbles and the sand is groomed meticulously at night. Pairs of sunbeds, twinned with umbrellas (as the Turkish sun intensifies over the summer, I can see these becoming more and more indispensable) dot the beach and enthusiastic staff are ready to spring to your side to provide whatever your heart (and stomach) desires. We read and snooze, basking in the sunshine and soaking up the sea view. On our last afternoon we venture into Bodrum, less than a half-hour drive away by taxi, before supper at the hotel. It’s a charming seaside city which feels more like a town and, along the main thoroughfare, small boutiques sit beside restaurants and stalls selling Turkish baklava and tourist trinkets. We enjoy a drink by the water, with the magnificent Bodrum Castle looming above us; it feels as though the city is taking a deep breath, readying itself for the summer onslaught of visitors.

That evening we try out what staff have been calling the ‘fish restaurant’, which is next to Kurochan. It has only been open two days when we visit, so it’s understandable that staff are still getting to grips with the menu. The food is fantastic; start with the meze selection, priced per sharing dish, and move on to the hot and cold starters. Stand-out dishes include chilled shrimp cocktail and mouth-wateringly good pan-seared monkfish with soya sauce, plum tomato and fresh pepper, which I could happily eat daily. We share the catch of the day – sea bream – which is cooked perfectly, or you can have baked sea bass, baby shrimp casserole, butter shrimps, seafood spaghetti or lobster. The fish in a salt crust is quite a spectacle; it takes an hour to prepare and we watch one being smashed open at our neighbour’s table. The sun has now set on our meal, and our stay, so we make a toast to beautiful Bodrum and married life with a glass of Turkish wine and, of course, baklava. Mandarin Oriental Bodrum, from £468 per night on a B&B basis; +90 252 311 18 88; mandarinoriental.com/bodrum

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A Road Well

Travelled Kari Colmans embarks on the journey of a lifetime, driving through Italy to Venice, taking in the beauty of Grosseto and Florence en route

here’s always a lot of pressure when it comes to planning a honeymoon. It’s the only holiday people will ever ask you about years down the line, and the answer has to live up to everyone else’s expectations, regardless of what may suit you: “Oh you went to Norfolk… how, erm, charming”, said with a slight tilt of the head, just won’t do. Having been on many holidays together over the past nine years – from Mexico to the Philippines, Shanghai to New York, the Cotswolds to the Lake District – alone, with friends and with both of our families, there’s one thing my husband and I knew for sure: the perfect holiday was not a vision shared. After rejecting countries, cities (and on his part, continents – “I’m just not that big on Asia”), we whittled it down to a few top criteria: good food, great wine and the possibility of a little adventure.

L’Andana, Grosseto Happily settled into our convertible, we followed the roads that wove like pale veins through a golden patchwork of vineyards and olive groves, past signs for Siena, Chianti and nearby Grosseto. After a few dead ends, our GPS signal blocked by tumbling hills in every direction, we spotted L’Andana bobbing between the cypresses. The

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500-hectare La Badiola Estate is co-owned by the Moretti family and Alain Ducasse, and was once a Medici villa where Grand Duke Leopold II and his court resided during the summer season; the grandeur has only intensified over time. Sitting down for lunch at La Villa, looking out over the never-ending landscape, lunch was an informal affair with a buffet of seasonal salads and cold cuts, with the choice to order “some pasta” if you fancied it. The service here took a DIY approach, more shrugging than “yes signore”-ing; cue a nod towards the public kitchen. The sprawling suites and De Luxe rooms are intensely rustic (aside from the modern Etro toiletries) with a regal, palatial air; rich with warm terracotta stone, grand pillars, imposing mezzanines, and cast-iron features. Those who are used to the creature comforts of slick city high-rises may find the slow Wi-Fi tiresome, (especially when one member of the party is unable to detach themselves from the football, cricket and golf scores) but for those who don’t mind the internet teetotalism, the break is utter bliss. Designed by Ettore Mocchetti, editor of AD Italia, the ESPA spa houses two thermal spas with slate flooring, as well as a vitality pool, while the treatments are inspired by the resort’s sensory-provoking surroundings. The main swimming pool is just a few steps from the spa. So quiet you could hear an olive drop, it’s ideal for whiling away a wine-fogged afternoon, dozing under the Tuscan sun. If you’re looking for something more active, the delightful former golf pro Renato De Rosa offers lessons at the resort’s private range, where the views over the Maremma are so breathtaking that even I was persuaded to spend an hour working on my swing. As our rabbi said as he married us in July, “marriage is all about compromise”. Food-wise, a stay at the resort cannot be complete without at least one visit to Alain Ducasse’s Michelinstar Trattoria Toscana, located in an old barn and horse stable, for some of the best fine food and wine in the region, with a little French flair thrown in for good measure. The vast windows overlook the Mediterranean

macchia while the kitchen equipment and wood oven on display herald a laid-back atmosphere, somewhere inbetween traditional trattoria and Michelin-star fanciness. Dishes such as a light, subtle lobster salad, gnocchi with red prawns, and a succulent veal chop were each served with a recommended wine, which had us almost rolling back to our room. Even the cellar at L’Andana is open to view, displaying about 150 labels, including wines made in the cellars belonging to the Moretti family – Petra and Tenuta La Badiola – where the well-established tradition of wine and oil production has been going on for centuries. The Western vineyard, where the soil is the richest in clay, harvests the Acquadoro and Acquagiusta Bianco, while the Eastern vineyard produces Acquagiusta Rosato. The olive oil is also home pressed. For something more laid back, the ancient seaside port of Castiglione della Pescaia in Grosseto is just a 10-minute drive away. Taxis are easy to come by, and a car makes things easier, but a helicopter is even better, should you wish, and the resort can arrange it. Castiglione boasts a host of fine authentic restaurants, all of which left us glowing with fruity red wine and full-bodied satisfaction. Choose Skipper for an octopus and potato salad with your feet in the sand; Dal Bucaniere for fritto misto glistening from the fryer, followed by a rich wild boar ragù; and Pierbacco for hot liver spread on crusty bread. There are also beautiful boutiques to explore, stocking the finest furs and cashmeres from obscure, eye-wateringly expensive Italian brands as well as the usual international suspects. It was after shop 15, our golfing already a hazy footnote, that I needed to remind the other half – a Tod’s slipper on one foot, Prada on the other – the secret of la dolce vita. Superior rooms from €440, andana.it

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Portrait Firenze, Florence We had without doubt found our culinary calling card in Tuscany and were excited to carry on the adventure through Florence, armed with a list of must-visit eateries from a friend who knows the city’s kitchens like the back of her hand: La Trattoria dei 13 Gobbi for hearty rigatoni swimming in molten mozzarella; La Giostra with its fairy light-lined walls and veal Milaneses as big as elephants’ ears; the tiny Buca dell’Orafo, where ordering is a gamble as nobody speaks English, but every dish (especially the tagliata) will make you mourn for a time when you could taste Italian food in any other country and enjoy it. The following journey’s dreamscape rose to the occasion of our Hollywood-filtered expecations, but we said goodbye to the car at this point; you can walk everywhere in Florence, and it was more hassle than it was worth to find somewhere to park. The newly opened Portrait Firenze was to be our home for the next three days, an impeccably chic townhouse-style hotel, owned by the Ferragamo family and just a few steps from the

The hotel’s design was inspired by 1950s Florence and the birth of Italian haute couture brand’s headquarters, which comprise a grand boutique and a dedicated exhibition about the late Florentine designer, Salvatore. Choose the sixth-floor Ponte Vecchio Suite, with its full-facade riverfront terrace over the Arno, and enjoy the hubbub from the holidaymakers pausing for coffee and pastries in the shade of the Ponte Vecchio. Online, the hotel is officially rated as being four-star, but this is wholly misleading, as it ticks every five-star box (much more so, in fact, than the other big-name luxury chains nearby). We recognised in an instant the touch of Florentine interior designer Michele Bonan, who has here drawn his inspiration from 1950s Florence and the birth of Italian haute couture to create a hotel that really does feel like an impossibly stylish friend’s city pied-à-terre. Bonan, if you’re reading this, I’ll sell my soul in return for a two-bedroom job in Chelsea; although I suppose we could manage without the Bluetooth-operated sound system and iPad-fitted lifts.

You also won’t find a better location: situated right next to Piazza della Signoria, you can cross the Ponte Vecchio to Boboli Gardens or you’re just a hop skip and a jump from the Uffizi Gallery (home to Michelangelo sculptures and Renaissance paintings) and the artisan districts of Santa Croce and Oltrarno. But the best way to see the city is just to walk, walk and walk some more, preferably with a chocolate gelato as black as tar dripping down your hand. Hans Christian Andersen compared Florence to a beautiful picture book during his trip to Italy in 1833, and it’s true that the Duomo (officially called the Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore) looks like something from the centrefold of a pop-up greetings card. In between church gazing and shopping (the balance was certainly tipping in my retail-therapy-to-sports-playing favour, especially upon discovering a bespoke pump pop-up shop, viajiyu.com), all we did was eat: Trattoria Gargani, of which there are two, so-named by two brothers who co-owned one and fell out, with the loser forced to open a competing eatery of the same name on the other side of the city; the pretty Il Quattro Leoni for pear- and taleggio-stuffed tortellini; and Il Santo Bevitore for more London-style dining. Stumbling upon a Chinese restaurant, I conceded to one more non-Italian meal for a man who can’t go a week without five-spice ribs, and was pleasantly surprised not to have to spit anything out. We didn’t note down the name, but there was only one, where amazingly, we were not the only punters (although admittedly, the only non-Chinese ones). Our hotel also offered a more British breakfast option that we (he) had struggled to find elsewhere: who doesn’t come to Italy for a full English and chow mein? The only downside for those travelling in the summer heat is the lack of pool should your legs grow too tired and your belly too full to spend the late afternoon on your feet. However, there are a very small handful of hotels nearby that do offer a pay-for-the-day service but it’s worth venturing further out to the Four Seasons for this (a taxi drive away, just outside the city) which offers the very best setting for those wanting to laze around in the sun and order a chicken Caesar salad poolside. From €450 per night, lungarnocollection.com

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Bauer Palladio Hotel & Spa, Venice The final stop came around too soon but it was the one we’d been waiting for: a city that, for the past nine years, we’d vowed to visit but had never quite made it, and one that no matter how many wonders we’d seen around the world, was still capable of leaving us speechless. We arrived in Venice by train at the Venezia Santa Lucia station after a smooth journey through the heart of Bologna, stepping straight on to the banks of the Grand Canal. A water taxi took us to our hotel, the Bauer Palladio Hotel & Spa, a converted monastery on Giudecca island (along with the famous Hotel Cipriani). Set apart from the droves of tourists on the main island, it is accessible for guests by private shuttle boat, available from 10am until midnight daily from the dock of the hotel’s sister property, the Bauer near St Mark’s Square. The lobby in Palladio’s main building, an original

16th-century convent, is cavernous with a slightly creepy feel; something to do with the tapestries, and biblical art. But our garden-view junior suite, in a more recently refurbished wing, was a little more to our taste. Here the décor is quite colonial in style; light woods and fresh, neutral hues, a look that extends to the spa’s stunning couples’ massage room. The real draw at this resort are the four enchanting Venetian gardens, swamped in cream roses and wild hydrangeas and dotted with pairs of white wrought iron loungers. In the spring, I’m told, thousands of wild, colourful blooms enrich a part of these lawns, creating an Oriental rug effect, while woven willow fencing closely guards tomatoes and artichokes. But a trip to Venice can’t be spent totally cooped up. The city is scattered with boutiques specialising in obscure items: Hibiscus will make you feel like a child raiding your grandmother’s jewellery box but you’ll find the Bond Street equivalents in Calle Vallaresso. Wander into Gianni Basso down a narrow alley that leads to the Fondamente Nuove, where inside this scruffy, dimly-lit shop, surrounded by printing presses, you will find the most exquisite stationery. Marie Brandolini sells brilliantly colourful Murano glass jugs, vases and plates from a small showroom on the Grand Canal, while Articoli per Cani, sat at the very start of the Strada Nuova, stocks the most ludicrous dog costumes you’ve ever seen, from full carnival get-up to a Sherlock Holmes ensemble. Fine-dining wasn’t hard to come by and we thought we may as well go out with a bang. Our first lazy afternoon was spent wandering St Mark’s in a love-struck stupor, having run into Harry’s Dolci five minutes before closing, convincing them to let us perch over a carafe, providing we could order in under a minute: pappardelle arrabiata and scampi and zucchini risotto with curry sauce were hasty but wonderful choices. We couldn’t resist a gondola ride, every bit as special as we’d imagined, while no doubt as ridiculous to the Venetian resident as an open-top bus ride through Leicester Square. Our last two evenings were at Cip’s Club, following a rainbow of Bloody Marys at Hotel Cipriani, and on the terrace of the St Mark Palladio’s gourmet restaurant, De Pisis, with a nightcap on the balcony of the famous Gritti Palace. Overlooking the Grand Canal, with the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute and bobbing gondolas in the distance, we decided compromise wasn’t so bad after all. Leading Hotels of the World offers rooms from £237, LHW.com/palladio

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Take Me to

Taormina

Anwer Bati visits Sicily’s foremost resort and is charmed by the history, ancient sites, cuisine and culture of the largest island in the Mediterranean

he boatloads of beleaguered refugees heading for its shores from nearby North Africa mean that Sicily has recently hit the headlines for reasons far removed from tourism and holidaymaking. This is a shame for one of the most fascinating holiday destinations in Europe, which is so much more than just an offshoot of Italy. With a population the size of Denmark, Sicily boasts a rich history and architectural heritage of its own, a dramatic landscape, a separate language (though everyone speaks Italian as well) and a distinctive culture and cuisine. Taormina – its leading resort – adds glamour into the mix of attractions. Set high on a foothill of Monte Tauro, it is both a bustling modern town and steeped in a past dating from the fourth century BC, with the Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Arab, Norman, Spanish and French invaders of the island all leaving their mark in one way or another. And the British? Our contribution to the culture, as with so many Mediterranean resorts, was to help to kick-start tourism in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as the place became popular with arty visitors including Oscar Wilde and D.H. Lawrence. Since Taormina is a hill town, the first decision you have to make is whether to stay there or by the sea in Mazzaro, its beach area. If you opt for the latter, there

is only one serious choice: the Villa Sant’ Andrea, where recent guests include Kirsten Dunst and Emily Blunt. Built in the 19th century by Cornish railway engineer Robert Trewhella as a private house, it became a hotel in the 1950s. With its lovely gardens, kids’ club and private beach, it’s a favourite with families, particularly since a small swimming pool was added last year. It’s also a romantic retreat for couples. The pretty rooms (only 64 of them), most with a view of the bay – and many with balconies – couldn’t be more comfortable and service is top notch. Although you can get up to town by the shuttle to its sister hotel, the Timeo, it’s faster and more fun to use the public cable car a few yards away. Dating from the 1870s, the Timeo was the first serious hotel in Taormina, built right next to the town’s main sight, the spectacularly situated 3rd century BC Greek theatre. The hotel was taken over by the Belmond group (along with the Sant’ Andrea) five years ago and with its magnificent views of both the bay and Mount Etna from its rooms, pool and terrace, as well as splendid gardens running down the hill, it has become one of the most stylish and smoothly run hotels in Italy. It’s the place most stars (including Robert de Niro, Russell Crowe and Tom Cruise in recent years) stay during the town’s prestigious film festival, held every June at the theatre.

TRAVEL

For many years, the grandest hotel in Taormina was the San Domenico Palace, near the centre of town, with views, gardens, and a lovely pool the equal of the Timeo – all spread across a huge site, once a Dominican monastery dating from the 15th century. Much of the old monastery, including its cloisters, is still intact and the hotel’s sheer size guarantees peace. In fact, you get the feeling that there are few other guests even when the hotel – with 105 rooms – is full. It’s notably cheaper than the Timeo and for several good reasons; if the Timeo runs like a purring Maserati, the San Domenico is rather more like an old Rolls-Royce in need of retuning. However, it’s the perfect choice if you prefer history and character to outright luxury – as Susan Sarandon, Richard Gere and Rupert Everett evidently did when they stayed there for the film festival in June this year. Sicilian cuisine, using the exceptional local produce, is one of the highlights of any visit, with the use of capers, almonds, pistachios, honey, wild fennel and local cheeses making it peculiar to the island rather than Italy. Many dishes reflect the influence of invaders such as the Arabs – with couscous, aubergines, nuts, dried

The San Domenico is the perfect choice if you prefer history and character to outright luxury and citrus fruit found in many recipes. Characteristic Sicilian dishes include pasta con le sarde (sardines with breadcrumbs, raisins, wild fennel and pinenuts), pasta alla Norma (with aubergines, tomatoes and ricotta), and pasta with pistachio pesto. Instead of Parmesan, Pecorino cheese, made with local sheep’s milk, or dried Ricotta is the preferred alternative. The Sicilians also have a pronounced sweet tooth, so don’t miss the national breakfast, granita (made with crushed ice, sugar, and fruit, nut or coffee flavourings), usually served with whipped cream and brioche. There is no shortage of restaurants in Taormina (many of them unashamedly touristy) but some of the best food is to be found in the hotels. The San Domenico boasts the two Michelin star Principe Cerami, overseen by chef Massimo Mantarro, one of the best in Italy, but whether outside on the terrace, or inside, it can only host 16 people for its supremely confident modern Sicilian cuisine. The hotel’s Les Bougainvillées restaurant, with its own terrace, offers a range of traditional and more international dishes. The Oliviero at the Sant’ Andrea serves excellent fish and seafood, and a range of Sicilian dishes, in a charming position just above the beach. Chef Roberto Toro’s food at the Timeo’s restaurant is faultless,

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TRAVEL

delicious and superbly presented – enhanced by the exceptionally professional waiting staff. Apart from the ancient theatre (where there are several open air performances during the year), there are few sights in Taormina so when you’ve finished shopping in the main street, Corso Umberto, full of designer, food and craft shops (ceramics are a local speciality), you may feel like an excursion. The free boat trips offered to guests by the Villa Sant’ Andrea might be just the ticket for a change of scene. Or maybe a trip up to the hill village of Castelmola, just above Taormina, for its breath-taking views of the coast? On the way back try the terrace of the Villa Ducale, a smart boutique hotel, for a drink or to sample the accomplished cooking. If you’re a movie fan, visit the hill villages of Savoca (in particular bar Vitelli and St Lucia church) and Forza d’Agro, where parts of The Godfather trilogy

“If a man only has one day to spend in Sicily and asks what to see, I would answer... Taormina” were shot. In Forza d’Agro, have lunch at Osteria Agostiniana where you can enjoy a substantial set lunch of fish, seafood and pasta for only ¤30 – including drinks. It’s not only good value, but surprisingly good food for the price. On the coast, explore the neighbouring town of Giardini Naxos and have lunch at the bright but shaded roof-top restaurant – with an uninterrupted view of the sea – of the delightful Palladio hotel. It’s quirky, decorated with ceramics and items made by local artisans and serves the finest fresh

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local ingredients – fish and seafood in particular – all a testament to the dedication of owner Caterina Valentino to Sicilian crafts and cuisine. “If a man only has one day to spend in Sicily and asks what to see, I would answer without any hesitation Taormina,” wrote Guy de Maupassant in 1885. And it’s difficult to disagree even today, although you might well feel that around a week would be better. Prestige Holidays (prestigeholidays.co.uk/sicily; 01425 480400) offers luxury packages to Taormina, including flights, accommodation and private transfers. belmond.com / san-domenico-palace.com

Harbour Tennis_297x210.indd 1

29/05/2015 10:03

F O O D

I S

A R T.

E L E V A T E

I T.

In craftsmanship and technology, Wolf stands alone. Its professional performance helps you make the most of every meal.

www.subzero-wolf.co.uk 251 Brompton Road, Knightsbridge, London SW3 2EP 0845 250 0010

& DINING

DRINKING

BY ashiana pradhan

Too Much of a Good Thing… … is a good thing, says Balans Soho Society, and we couldn’t agree more. Tucked away between Nationwide and Money Exchange is a quirky, frivolous ‘haven for the convivial’ that marches to the beat of its own drum and is all the better for it. Wash the day away with a punchy cocktail – the Pama Fizz makes use of pomegranate, a fruit which is “hot right now”, a waiter assures us – and relish a menu that takes its inspiration from everywhere from Italy to Thailand via the good old USA and Blighty. ‘Whet Your Appetite’ with the generously portioned (and nicely priced, at £6) duck spring rolls and hot, satisfying chicken gyoza (£7), both perfect for sharing. ‘The Main Event’ caters perfectly for groups who all fancy something different and aren’t prepared to compromise; have a burger, red curry, pulled pork wrap (meaty and doused in bourbon-flamed BBQ sauce), Cornish crab linguine or grilled halloumi, which comes with a mound of more-ish black olive mash. Find space for the warm doughnuts and end your night with a smile. As Balans says, a good supper puts a well-earned full stop on the working day. It says: ‘Enough of this lunacy – let us devour, imbibe and frolic’. We say: Hear hear! Balans Soho Society, 187 Kensington High Street, W8 6SH, 020 7376 0115; balans.co.uk

New to Kouzu Having opened less than a year ago, Kouzu in Belgravia has been praised for its delicious Japanese cuisine and winning team of chefs and staff, who all hail from the crème de la crème of Japanese fine dining establishments, including Zuma, Nobu and Hakkasan. The restaurant has now opened an intimate private dining room overlooking the bustling kitchen for up to seven guests, which can be accessed through its own private entrance. Enjoy not only sashimi and sushi but also charcoal grill dishes, tempure and salads, Lunch and pre-theatre menus range between £20 and £30 per person, and the average spend for a three-course à la carte dining experience at Kouzu is between £60 and £80 per head. Kouzu, 21 Grosvenor Gardens, SW1 For reservations call 020 7730 7043; kouzu.co.uk

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& DINING

DRINKING Day to Night

We’ve tried (and loved) the Rosebery’s impeccable afternoon tea so we were delighted to hear that it’s now serving food morning and night too, providing an alternative to Heston Blumenthal’s popular Dinner and the buzzing Bar Boulud, also located within the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park. A continental breakfast menu is served from 8am and the Lounge Dining menu from 6pm, both of which focus on quality, not quantity. The whites served by the glass (at £15.50 and £19) are best for those who really do appreciate the finest of wines. There are light dishes – such as crab and pear salad, and smoked salmon – and those with a suitably Asian touch; we recommend the delicious dim sum (£16) and hot (in the spicy sense) prawn green curry (£29). The Rosebery, Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, 66 Knightsbridge, SW1X mandarinoriental.com/london

Fit the Bill Did you know the average customer in the UK spends a month of their lives waiting for bills in restaurants? Far too long, we think. Enter Velocity – an app that smoothes out the mood-killing commotion associated with sorting out the bill at the end of a convivial meal. Having partnered with the stars of London’s dining and nightlife scene, including the likes of Chotto Matte, Nozomi and Eclipse, Velocity allows you to discover restaurants in a particular area, reserve a table and shows you and your guests your bill in real-time, allowing you to split and pay via the app when you’re ready to get moving. To top it all off, Velocity and Uber have integrated, so you can book your car home through Velocity to continue the fuss-free experience. Velocity is available to download on Android and iOS

A Wicked Treat

Strike It Rich Maison Veuve Clicquot has launched Veuve Clicquot Rich, a sweet champagne that introduces mixology and a new way to experience the refreshing taste of Veuve Clicquot. Its name stems from the origins of champagne, when the beverage was a lot sweeter and described as ‘rich,’ so the Veuve Clicquot Rich blends a higher dosage with a tailored blend of grapes to create a sweetness that, when mixed, results in a delicious experience for champagne lovers. It is available exclusively at a handful of London’s drinking dens, including Mr. Fogg’s in Mayfair and Barts here in South Kensington. Additionally, it can be purchased from Selfridge’s Food Hall and Wine Shop. Veuve Clicquot Rich, £59 at Selfridges Barts, Chelsea Cloisters, 87 Sloane Avenue, SW3

Much-loved among Royals and celebrities alike for its famous truffles, Roald Dahl’s favourite chocolate shop Prestat has opened up a new café round the corner from Peter Jones. Buzzing with ladies who brunch and chocolate-loving tourists, the café offers a delightful menu that caters for indulgence-seekers, with its cakes and pastries beautifully (and irresistibly) displayed inside. Bright and colourful, we can imagine that Dahl himself would have associated the treat-filled spot with his imagined reverie of Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory. Café Prestat, 186 Pavilion Road, SW3 prestat.co.uk

Summer Nights

Dunkin’ Doughnuts

Eric Charriaux and Amnon Paldi, owners of luxury cheese shop La Cave à Fromage, understand that the summer’s elongated evenings are to be savoured with every mouthful. As part of their summer celebrations throughout August, they will be opening the Notting Hill branch until 10pm on Fridays and Saturdays, as well as offering a special Weekend Cheeseboard and flight of wines to create the perfect pairing. The board will feature six hand-selected cheeses from across Europe and the UK with a selection of French artisan breads, and each of the wines has been carefully chosen to complement each cheese. Bon appétit! Elizabeth Finney

Anges de Sucre is a paradise for those with a sweet tooth. The patisserie has just introduced a range of doughnut-cakes, using a secret signature frosting with Swiss meringue buttercream, which is then topped with Belgian chocolate-glazed buttermilk doughnuts. The trio of cake designs, including the Homer Simpson cake, the Doughnut Cookie Monster cake and the Pretzel-a-Palooza Cake, are all wonderfully imaginative and incorporate fun additions such as toffee popcorn and Oreo cookie crumble. Offering something a little more interesting than a classic Victoria sponge, these crazy cakes will undoubtedly be a conversation-starter at your next party – provided they don’t get eaten in minutes!

La Cave à Fromage, 148-150 Portobello Road, W11 2DZ la-cave.co.uk

Photography: Jamie Orlando

Smith

Doughnut-cakes from £39 Anges de Sucre, 1 Holland Street, W8 angesdesucres.com

Chip off the Old Block Pop to the seaside for a classic parcel of fish and chips right here in Notting Hill. The Kensington Place restaurant is launching The Notting Gill Chippy throughout August, featuring revamped British favourites by head chef Tim Peirson. Sample the lobster thermi-bun or the Bitter & Twisted scampi, alongside quirky additions such as quail’s eggs, seaweed butter and signature cocktails. This charismatic pop-up venue offers seating space for diners wanting to pull up a deckchair or a takeaway service for those who need to just keep swimming. Elizabeth Finney Kensington Place Restaurant, 201 Kensington Church Street, W8 7LX kensingtonplace-restaurant.co.uk

Opium of the Masses Ever tried a Flaming Ferrari? No? Well, you’re in for a bit of a shock to the senses. Nam Long Le Shaker, known for its multitude of regular celebrity diners over the past 30 years, has undergone a food menu makeover and has also introduced a brand new bar downstairs called The Opium Den. The bar is accessed via the barely noticeable winding staircase in the corner of the restaurant, which leads you down into the decadent space, small enough to feel like an intimate party, yet with enough buzz and finesse to pull it off. Decorated with velvet banquettes and heavy curtains, the bar serves drinks from a new cocktail menu; in addition to the restaurant’s signature (and lethal) Flaming Ferrari cocktail, which is set on fire in front of your eyes, we recommend the cocktail created in honour of Nam Long Le Shaker’s late founder, Mr Thai Dang, which is an intoxicating mix of rye whiskey, truffle honey and grapefruit. Try it if you dare. The Opium Den at Nam Long Le Shaker, 159 Old Brompton Road, SW5 namlong.co.uk

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Iraj Parvaneh and Yasmin Le Bon

Lady Maria Wiggin, Charles Wiggin and Lady Kinvara Balfour

Peter Mullin

Sir Jonathan Ive and Lady Alexandra Gordon-Lennox

Julius Thurgood, Nick Foulkes, Darcey Bussell, Lord Linley and David Gandy

Paddy McNally and Roger Taylor

Valentino Rossi and Arnaud Bamberger

Charlotte Stockdale, David Gandy and Jodie Kidd

Sir Jonathan Ive and Arnaud Bamberger

Winning Car - Talbot Lago T50 CSS

Marc Newson and Charlotte Stockdale

Mr and Mrs Guy Sangster

Laurent Feniou and Nico Rosberg

Darcey Bussell

LONDON LIVING Photography: Hannah Young

Saving Grace WHAT: The Launch of Grace Guru WHEN: 17 June WHERE: Sketch, 9 Conduit Street WHO: Anna Grace-Davidson, Yasmin Mills, Lisa Snowdon, Camilla Rutherford and Meg Matthews WHY: To celebrate the launch of her new online lifestyle guide, designer and entrepreneur Anna Grace-Davidson invited along a few close friends to Sketch for high tea, champagne and indulgent hand massages using luxury Elemental Herbology products – quite the treat for the pregnant Camilla Rutherford! Yoga specialist Karina Scherbina shared helpful techniques with the group, while Grace-Davidson waxed lyrical about her latest venture – an online platform that provides insight into success, lifestyle, spirituality, travel and books. Feeling inspired and rejuvenated, guests left with goody bags filled with pampering treats, such as Jo Wood Organics body mousse and Cocoface coconut water.

Anna Grace-Davidson and Yasmin Mills

Meg Matthews

Lisa Snowdon

Anna Grace-Davidson

Yasmin Mills and Brix Smith-Start

Lilly Becker

Racing on the Edge WHAT: The Cartier ‘Style et Luxe’ Concours d'Elegance at Goodwood's Festival of Speed WHEN: 28 June WHERE: The Private Lawn, Goodwood, Chichester WHO: Arnaud Bamberger, Laurent Feniou, the Earl of March, David Gandy, Lord Linley and Yasmin le Bon WHY: Over the past 20 years, Cartier ‘Style et Luxe’ has become one of the most respected Concours d’Elegance. This time round, Goodwood welcomed 185,000 spectators for the Festival of Speed and Moving Motor Show, with the theme Flat-Out and Fearless – Racing on the Edge, to present the champions of the motorsport world. These were separated into seven categories, or ‘car classes’, along with an Overall Winner award; this went to the deserving sculptural Talbot Lago T150 C-SS Goutte D'Eau. After quenching their petrol thirsts, guests who visited on the Sunday, including car enthusiasts Jodie Kidd and David Gandy, retired to the Cartier tent to enjoy a delicious buffet lunch, followed by afternoon tea. During the lunch, the winners were announced and prizes awarded before a rousing speech was given by the Earl of March to Arnaud Bamberger, who retires this month as executive chairman of Cartier UK after five years at the helm. He has certainly done the company proud.

Duncan Hawkins and guests, Marie-Klaire Farrugia, Smitha

Simone Hunt, Anna Miles, Rebecca McLoughlin from The Children’s Hospital Trust Fund, and Stephanie Thomas

Rebecca McLoughlin, Laurence Lai from Knight Frank, the Mayor and the Mayoress of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, Gary Hartnoll Vice Chair of The Children’s Hospital Trust Fund, Princess Marina Lobanov Rostovsky, Trustee at The Children’s Hospital Trust Fund, Laurence Fournier-Foch, The Children’s Hospital Trust Fund

Knights in Shining Armour WHAT: Courtfield Gardens Summer Party WHEN: 19 June WHERE: Courtfield Gardens, SW5 WHY: For the third consecutive year, the Knight Frank office in South Kensington was proud and delighted to sponsor the Courtfield Gardens Summer Party in aid of the Chelsea & Westminster Children’s Hospital Trust and Pluto Appeal. The event raised £12,700, which takes the grand total that has been raised since Knight Frank’s involvement began three years ago to £35,390. A fun and fabulous evening was had by all. Photography: Valerie Sieyes

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Olivia Grant

Natalie Coyle and Zafar Rushdie

Luca Del Bono

Welcome to the Club WHAT: Luca del Bono’s Summer Party WHEN: 25 June WHERE: South Kensington Club, SW7 WHO: Adam Garcia, Jack Fox, Chelsy Davy, Hugo Taylor, Tom Parker-Bowles and Roxie Nafousi WHY: There were so many events scheduled for the evening of 25 June that it was hard to keep track but anyone who was anyone made sure to pay a visit to the South Kensington Club, as the member’s club threw its first official party. Tom Parker-Bowles, Chelsy Davy and Game of Thrones' actress Laura Pradelska were just some of the notable names in attendance, many of whom were decked out in tennis whites and summer gear (as befitting the theme). Guests sipped on Pommery champagne and devoured artichoke and quinoa salad canapés as they were thoroughly entertained by Playlister DJ Dan Lywood and theatrical band Colomboloco. The party was a great introduction to the private member’s club, now open for business.

Leader of the Pack

Adam Garcia

Jack Fox and Hugo Taylor

Laura Pradelska and Roxie Nafousi

David Furnish

WHAT: Tessa Packard London Summer Dinner WHEN: 9 June WHERE: Belvedere Restaurant, Holland Park, W8 WHO: Alice Temperley MBE, Guy and Lizzy Pelly, George Askew and Astrid Harbord WHY: If there’s anyone who knows how to hold a glamorous soirée, it's Tessa Packard. As a thank you to all of her close friends and supporters, the gracious jewellery designer invited them all to her annual summer party, this year choosing the beautiful Belvedere restaurant in Holland Park as her venue. Cocktails flowed inside and outside on the terrace before guests sat down (and promptly sobered up) to a hearty three-course meal of tuna carpaccio, beef fillet and chips, and sgroppino pudding plied with vodka. Nearing midnight, those still in a semi-fit state to continue wandered off to The Electric in Notting Hill while others called it a night. It was a Tuesday evening, after all.

True Romance Mark Strong

Elizabeth Hurley Claudia Winkleman

Princess Beatrice Photography: CPG Photography

Eva Herzigova

WHAT: NSPCC Neo-Romantic Art Gala at Masterpiece London 2015 WHEN: 30 June WHERE: Masterpiece London, the Royal Hospital Chelsea WHO: Sir Michael Caine, Eva Herzigova, Elizabeth Hurley and Roland Mouret WHY: Hosted by Claudia Winkleman and Mariella Frostrup, this glittering gala at Masterpiece London resulted in £1.2 million being raised for the NSPCC to further support their efforts to help sexually abused children, as part of its post-abuse ‘play therapy’ services. Following the drinks and dinner reception at Le Caprice pop-up, there was a live auction hosted by Sotheby’s; celebrities and guests laid down impressive bids for some amazing pieces by contemporary artists, including Mat Collishaw, Antony Gormley and Edward Ruscha, as well as a pair of exquisite Star Diamond earrings set in 18-carat white gold. Finally, the evening was rounded off with a special performance by Emeli Sandé.

LONDON LIVING Nina Litchfield and Dulce Packard

Sophie Long

Fred Doulton and Tessa Packard Guy and Lizzy Pelly

George Askew and Rafaela Van der Heyden

Sophia Money-Coutts

Tessa Packard and Lizzy Pelly

Nick Saunders, Claire Selby and Dulce Packard

Greg Williams and Alice Temperley MBE

Hetty Chidwick and Rachael Taylor

Emma Watkins, Katie St George and Bella Dickie

Abi O'Neill and Ian Bruce

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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

Ligne Roset

Hydrohealing Spa

Bibendum

Repairs & Cleaning

23/25 Mortimer Street, W1T 3JE 020 7323 1248 ligne-roset.co.uk

216a Kensington Park Rd, W11 1NR 020 7727 2570 hydrohealing.com

81 Fulham Road, SW3 6RD 020 7581 5817 bibendum.co.uk

Jeeves of Belgravia 123 Fulham Road, SW3 6RT 020 7589 9229 jeevesofbelgravia.co.uk

Sloane Tailors & Dry Cleaners 69 Lower Sloane Street SW1W 8DA 020 7824 8644 sloanetailorsanddrycleaners.co.uk

Precious Pieces

April Russell Design

Strip Wax Bar

Le Café Anglais

13 Cheyne Court, SW3 5TP 020 3055 0090 aprilrussell.com

112 Talbot Road, W11 1JR 020 7727 2754 stripwaxbar.com

8 Porchester Gardens, W2 4DB 020 7221 1415 lecafeanglais.co.uk

Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture 202 Kensington Park Road W11 1NR, 020 7792 9022 rachelashwellshabbychiccouture.com

Urban Retreat at Harrods

Chelsea Brasserie

87-135 Brompton Road, SW1X 7XL 020 7893 8333 urbanretreat.co.uk

7-12 Sloane Square, SW1W 8EG 020 7881 5999 chelsea-brasserie.co.uk

Medical & Dental Services

The Cow

251 Brompton Rd, SW3 2EP 0845 250 0010 subzero-wolf.co.uk

Cadogan Street Dental Office

89 Westbourne Park Road, W2 5QH 020 7221 0021 thecowlondon.co.uk

Nina’s House

Chelsea Consulting Rooms

Cartier

281 King’s Road, SW3 5EW 020 7751 5827 ninashouse.com

2 Lower Sloane Street, SW1W 8BJ 020 7763 9100 chelseaconsultingrooms.com

143-144 Sloane Street, SW1X 9BL 020 7312 6930 cartier.co.uk

Pampering & Wellbeing

Medicare Français

Jewellery Valuation & repair

Sub-Zero & Wolf Hawkes and Son 50-52 Walton Street, SW3 1RB 020 7589 2523 hawkesandson.com Watch Repair

Electric House

Hairdressers

The Watch Gallery 129 Fulham Road, SW3 6RT 020 7952 2731 thewatchgallery.co.uk

47 Cadogan Street, SW3 2QJ 020 7581 0811

191 Portobello Road, W11 2ED 020 7908 9696 electrichouse.com

Gaucho 3 Harrington Gardens, SW7 4JJ 020 7370 4999 medicare-francais.co.uk

Hari’s

89 Sloane Avenue, SW3 3DX 020 7584 9901 gauchorestaurants.co.uk

The Ledbury Restaurant Smile Style Dental Care

Vintage Watch Sellers

305 Brompton Road SW3 2DY 020 7581 5211 harissalon.com

146 Holland Park Avenue, W11 4UE 020 7727 5810 smilestyledental.co.uk

Watches of Knightsbridge

Light Hair Studio

42 The Dental Practice

64 Knightsbridge, SW1X 7JF 020 7590 3034 watchesofknightsbridge.com

293 Westbourne Grove W11 2QA 020 7792 0100 lighthairstudio.com

42 Pembridge Road, W11 3HN 020 7229 5542 42thedentalpractice.com

127 Ledbury Road, W11 2AQ 020 7792 9090 theledbury.com

The Lonsdale

For the Home

Richard Ward

& APPLICANCES

82 Duke of York Square SW3 4LY 020 7730 1222 richardward.com

Hutch Interiors

The Mitre The Portobello Clinic

FurniturE, SOFT furnishings

61 Golborne Road, W10 5NR 020 3659 4320 hutchinteriors.com

Beauty Salons & Spas

Katharine Pooley

The Chelsea Day Spa

160 Walton Street, SW3 2JL 020 7584 3223 katharinepooley.co.uk

69a King’s Road, SW3 4NX 020 7351 0911 thechelseadayspa.co.uk

48 Lonsdale Road, W11 2DE 020 7727 4080 thelonsdale.co.uk

12 Raddington Road, W10 5TG 020 8962 0635 portobelloclinic.com

Haute Cuisine Dining

40 Holland Park Avenue, W11 3QY 020 7727 6332 themitrew11.co.uk

One Kensington 1 Kensington High Street, W8 5NP 020 7795 6533 one-kensington.com

Bar Boulud Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park 66 Knightsbridge, SW1X 7LA 020 7201 3899 barboulud.com

Restaurant Gordon Ramsay 68 Royal Hospital Road, SW3 4HP 020 7352 4441 gordonramsay.com

CONCIERGE

Scalini 1-3 Walton Street, SW3 2JD 020 7225 2301 scalinionline.com

Umami 100 Cromwell Road, SW7 4ER 020 7341 2320 umamilondon.co.uk

Members Clubs

cleaners

Chelsea Arts Club

Hillside Clothes Care

Abels Moving Services

143 Old Church Street, SW3 6EB 020 7376 3311 chelseaartsclub.com

118 Kensington Park Road W11 2PW 020 7243 6900 hillsidedryclean.co.uk

UK Residential, European and International Removals & Storage 020 3773 5796 info@abels.co.uk abels.co.uk

The Sloane Club Infusion Haberdashery and Dry Cleaners

Delicatessens

Lower Sloane Street, SW1W 8BS 020 7730 9131 sloaneclub.co.uk

La Bottega

Business Affairs

14 Gloucester Road SW7 4RB 020 7581 6980 labottega.co.uk

computer & technology help

3 Chepstow Road W2 5BL 020 7243 8735 infusion-haberdashery.co.uk

Richard Darsa

Housekeeping

78 Cadogan Place, SW1X 9RP 07768 200 551 richard@darsa.net

St. Anneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Housekeeping

Ottolenghi Delicatessen 63 Ledbury Road W11 2AD 020 7727 1121 ottolenghi.co.uk

Partridges 2-5 Duke of York Square SW3 4LY 020 7730 7102 partridges.co.uk

Couriers

Runners 4 U Couriers

Pets

15 Elgin Mews, W11 1PU 020 6305 8941 runners4u.com

Purple Bone

Selena Courier Service

Chocolatiers

Melt Chocolates

Luxury Car Services

59 Ledbury Road, W11 2AA 020 7727 5030 meltchocolates.com

Avolus Luxury Transport

95 Notting Hill Gate W11 3JZ 020 7985 0903 purplebone.com

Little Luxuries

Suzanne Thomas 07770 378791 suzannethomas@suzannethomas.co.uk suzannethomas.co.uk

Westminster Security Ltd 34 Buckingham Palace Road SW1W 0RH 020 7123 4544 / 0755 4000 300 westminstersecurity.co.uk SHORT-LET RENTAL MANAGEMENT

Nikki Tibbles Wild at Heart

Easy Rental Services

222 Westbourne Grove, W11 2RH 020 7727 3095 wildatheart.com

aurelie@easy-rental-services.com +44 7817 722073 easy-rental-services.com

specialist services

198 Ebury Street, SW1W 8UN 020 7730 5522 williamcurley.co.uk

lifestyle services

Drinking

White Circle Collection

Boujis

71 Walton Street, SW3 2HT 020 7989 9890 whitecirclecollection.com

Basement, Loft & Extension Specialist 28 Imperial Square 020 7078 8874 williamgazeltd.com

Childcare

dog training

The Cadogan Arms

Kensington Nannies

M.A. Dog Training and Services

298 Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Road, SW3 5UG 020 7352 6500 thecadoganarmschelsea.com

3 Horton Place, Kensington High Street, W8 4LZ kensington-nannies.co.uk

07547 716076 madogtraining@gmail.com madogtrainingandservices.co.uk

BUILDER

london lifestyle service

William Gaze Ltd

43 Thurloe Street, SW7 2LQ 020 7584 2000 boujis.com

Frame Set & Match 111 Old Brompton Road, SW7 3LE 020 7589 7635 sk@framesetandmatch.com

security services

Flowers

38 Lombard Road, SW11 3RP 020 7978 6506 avolus.com

PICTURE FRAMER

psychotherapist

19 Bolsover Street, W1W 5NA 020 3397 7495 stanneshousekeeping.com

27 Eardley Crescent, SW5 9JS 020 7912 0062 selenacourier.co.uk

William Curley

moving services

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AN EIS INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY IN INDEPENDENT BRITISH FEATURE FILMS 16 Brune street, London, EC1 7NJ. Tel: +44 (0)20 7148 0714

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Why itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all about property valuation

Local News Whether to sell or let your property in Chelsea

Image courtesy of Hamptons

Property News PRIME RESI provides us with a comprehensive monthly round-up of key news about the local luxury property market

Noises Off

Photography: David Falconer

The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea (RBKC) slashes noisy construction working hours: RBKC has proposed reducing the hours contractors can carry out noisy works in the borough. A consultation has begun on the proposals, which would see a total ban on jobs like demolition, piling or drilling at the weekend, and permitted hours reduced by 30 minutes on weekdays. It’s all part of the Council’s draft Code of Construction Practice, which aims to improve the way in which construction companies communicate with affected neighbours. If adopted, the permitted hours for noisy construction work, defined as work audible at the site boundary, would end at 6pm on weekdays, and the current 8am–1pm window on Saturdays would be scrapped.

Photography: Xlibber and Russavia

Complimentary Concierge Cadogan launches ‘industry first’ complimentary concierge service across portfolio: The Cadogan Estate has launched a free 24-hour luxury lifestyle concierge service for all its tenants and occupiers. ‘Cadogan Concierge’ is available across the entire estate of Chelseacentric market-let apartments, houses and commercial office occupiers. Staff are now on hand 365 days a year to do everything for tenants, from sourcing tickets to sold-out events and arranging personal shopping, to styling and wellbeing requirements such as nutritionists and personal trainers. Other services include event planning, travel advisory, dry cleaning, IT support, access to pre-vetted domestic staff, and a restaurant reservation service (which includes VIP and priority bookings with many leading restaurant groups, including Corbin and King, Caprice Holdings, Nobu, Atherton, Galvin and Hakkasan Groups). The service is operated by Privée Ltd, one of London’s top concierge operators, in partnership with Cadogan.

Market Comment The Psychology of Property Nick Crayson, founder of Crayson, discusses the perils of overvaluing in the London property market

ARE YOU STILL trying to work out what moves the London property market? Landmark events have played on the market in the past, from bankers’ bonuses in the noughties, to the ensuing stock-market melt-down, the ‘Arab Spring’ and the Euro-Crisis. Domestically the past year has seen threats of Mansion Tax and the abolition of the ‘Non-Dom’ tax status as well as the imposition of a higher banding of Stamp Duty at 12 per cent. You have to have a PhD in psychology and economics to work out what is going on. One hopes that expectations meet at some stage and that buyers are willing to pay the amounts that sellers expect. Huge swings and fluctuations do not make for a solid market and much of this is due to an industry-wide malaise – overvaluing. Working out the price is not always an easy task and often agents fall foul of a simple ‘overvaluation’ technique in order to win an instruction. The problem is that in the new marketplace this can be extremely destabilising. Not everyone gets the price right and often sellers would love to believe that the highest valuation is the most accurate – but the market has become far more sophisticated and transparent. There are so many tools available online for comparing prices, seeing how long a property has been on the market and whether there have been any price reductions. Price reductions are, in my view, one of the most damaging aspects of the market. Certainly there are cases where the agent has got it wrong unintentionally, the market conditions have significantly shifted, or where there are few comparable sales. However, you don’t see nearly as many increases as you do reductions, so it looks to me like the industry trend is one of overvaluation. To most buyers, the property market must seem to be in a constant stage of discounting. Is there any other market that sees such a level of constant discounting? A high-value market such as property needs much better attention from those responsible for setting prices. I am hopeful that sellers will continue to be more discerning and ask the agents who are pitching for business to demonstrate the value. In my view, this alone would make a huge difference in creating a more solid and professional marketplace. Crayson, 10 Lambton Place, W11 2SH; 020 7221 1117 crayson.com

PROPERTY

PrimeQResi Journal of Prime Property

primeresi.com

Waterside Homes Chelsea Waterfront’s first phase launches on Lots Road Power Station site: The first batch of apartments on the Lots Road Power Station site – now officially known as Chelsea Waterfront – have been released by Cheung Kong Property Holdings (formerly Hutchison Whampoa Properties). Designed by Farrells, this first phase will deliver 82 apartments across two buildings, Chartwell House and Claydon House, and is due to complete in 2016. Each of these apartments gets its own balcony or outside space, underground parking, access to a concierge and health/fitness club, and all the high-end specifications you’d expect from a major luxury development. The eight-acre Chelsea Waterfront site takes in the former Lots Road Power Station and will, once completed in 2019, house 706 new homes in ten buildings, including two stand-out towers either side of Chelsea Creek. The main power station building is to be converted into 260 apartments, with retail units and a riverside restaurant taking up the ground floor. Three new bridges spanning Chelsea Creek will link the power station to water gardens designed by landscape architects Randle Siddeley Associates.

Chelsea Waterfront Image courtesy of: Farrells

Market Comment Celebrate the Summer Lily Terrell at Carter Jonas views the summer months as prime time to prepare for a busy September ahead

Summer is upon us but in the history of real estate this hasn’t always been a welcome delight, and this year is no different. Between holidays away, weddings and enjoying the sunny outdoors, buyers tend to put their property search on hold. Traditionally, however, a cooling market creates opportunity and good agents perform better. At present, we are working hard to prepare for a busy September ahead. We will have a newly refurbished office on Beauchamp Place, which looks more contemporary, and a new driven, determined and experienced team ready to sell and let the highly desirable properties of Knightsbridge and Chelsea. The sales market is beginning to stabilise with prices rising gently or standing still. Once this is universally accepted, the gap between supply and demand should be bridged. Despite a slow and steady market, Carter Jonas remains well positioned to sell your property; we are a boutique, partner-led agency with a very high standard of service and we pride ourselves on being the best at what we do. If we look back at last year’s achievements, you will have a clearer idea of why this is the case. We had our most successful year yet and four outstanding super prime sales were the foundation behind this. Orme Square sold for £16.7m, an apartment in St James’ sold for £25m and two houses in Victoria Road sold for £13.1m and £8.8m, which was crucially £650,000 above other agents’ valuations. Our Chelsea & Knightsbridge office alone has reached record prices with some notable sales of unmodernised properties, such as a flat in Herbert Crescent that sold for £2,628 per square foot and a building opposite Harrods with six garages that sold for £19m (this equated to £3,500 per square foot). Furthermore, a property in Hanover Terrace sold for £39.5m. If you are looking to sell or let your property at the best achievable price and wish to discuss your options with our eager new team, please do not hesitate to contact us on 020 7584 7020. We would be delighted to help. Carter Jonas LLP, 47 Beauchamp Place, Chelsea, SW3 1NX carterjonas.co.uk

123

Market Insight Hannah Lemon meets James Pace from the Knight Frank Chelsea office to discuss trends within the area and rumours of a resurgence in the local property market

Knight Frank chelsea has recently published a market insight into the trends that have governed the area between 1997 and 2014. It shows that whilst there has been price growth during this period, in price rise terms, the area lags behind other Prime Central London addresses. “Chelsea, 25 years ago, was the stand-out area,” explains James Pace, Partner and Office Head at Knight Frank Chelsea. “If you wanted to live in London, Chelsea was the place to go and that’s because it was by far the nicest area in which to live. No question. If you look around London now, however, it’s not just Prime Central London that attracts; areas such as Clapham, Fulham and much of London in general have gentrified.” Figures from the research show that prices within areas of Prime Central London, such as Marylebone, have risen more steeply in the last few years than Chelsea (Figure 1). Knight Frank has opened many new branches in these areas to cope with the demand, which means the company as a whole has benefited from the change and every office is perfectly placed to offer clients from any area well-researched advice and services. “We’ve found that having a local presence makes such a difference. We’ve done a lot of market research recently and we found that people who haven’t used us before would really appreciate us being in the area.” One research result shows that the property market has focused on the lower-end of the market and James notes that 40 per cent of properties sold in the last two months fell under £1 million (Figure 2). Buyers are requesting apartments more often than houses, with Knight Frank research showing that in the last five years to March 2015, apartment prices in Prime Central London rose 83 per cent compared to 58 per cent for houses. “The market has become much more product-led than postcode-led,” James observes. “That’s what has tangibly changed over the last five years, and so international buyers in particular are looking for great products. Sometimes properties come to the market and they’re only five years old but they’re not turn-key,” continues James. “The international buyer frequently wants something brand new with great services that’s ready to move into, so they would rather just pay for that in an apartment.” With turn-key apartments in particular demand, it seems that the house-heavy Chelsea might be missing something here but James assures me that the area has much to attract buyers with several newly developed houses and apartment blocks due for completion soon. “We are going to see several new properties come to market over the next few months that are turn-key development products around the Boltons and at the western end of SW3. It’ll be very interesting to see how the market reacts to those.”

The Chelsea Waterfront development, which has recently been launched, is a prime example. The redevelopment of the historic Lots Road Power Station will eventually comprise several riverside buildings arranged around landscaped gardens and will include shops, bars and a health and fitness club. Similarly, the asset management company Orion is working on a development that consists of eight ‘super’ villas across 10,000+ square feet right in the heart of Old Chelsea. “It dominates the whole area,” says James. “It’s been sitting there as a derelict school for a long time and now it’s going to be transformed into the most incredible development, which is due for completion next year.” SW10 is also going to see the construction of 31 homes on Hortensia Road. “It is going to be coming online soon,” James confirms. Despite this flurry of new apartments, James maintains that there will still be strong demand for houses in Chelsea if they are priced correctly, even if sales volumes have decreased over the last decade or so (Figure 3). “There will always be a demand for houses here because primary education is fantastic. It’s a wonderfully safe and lovely area in which to live and families really like the outside space that many properties can offer.” Similarly, older buyers appreciate the heritage and allure of Chelsea, more so than in other areas (Figure 4). With this mixture of the old and new, it seems the Chelsea property market is set to offer buyers and vendors a plethora of investment opportunities. Knight Frank Chelsea, 352a King’s Road, SW3 5UU; 0207 349 4300 knightfrank.co.uk FIGURE 1. Source: Knight Frank Residential Research

PROPERTY

FIGURE 2

FIGURE 3

Prime Central London sales breakdown by price and area (Two years to February 2015)

Sales volumes (rebased to 100) 1997

100%

Knightsbridge

90% 80%

St John’s Wood

2014

100

70%

Kensington

60% Notting Hill

50%

Hyde Park

40%

Belgravia

Chelsea

30%

Marylebone

20%

Mayfair

10% 0 SW10

£18m+

£17m+

£16m+

£15m+

£14m+

£13m+

£12m+

£11m+

£10m+

£9m+

£8m+

£7m+

£6m+

£5m+

£4m+

£3m+

£2m+

£1m+

Source: Knight Frank Residential Research

PCL

Islington

SW3

South Kensington

Source: Knight Frank Residential Research/ Land Registry

FIGURE 4

Buyer profile in Chelsea versus Prime Central London average Buyer nationality in Chelsea (two years to March 2015) Chelsea

Buyer age in Chelsea (two years to March 2015)

PCL

UK Europe Asia Middle East North America Australasia Africa South America

Chelsea

PCL

<20 20s 30s 40s 50s 60s 70+

Source: Knight Frank Residential Research

125

Lexham Gardens, Kensington W8 An exceptional family house with lift and garden The house has been recently refurbished by the owner to create a near perfect family home. The quality of work and attention to detail is very impressive. The house has excellent volume and ceiling height, wonderful proportions with the rare added benefit of a lift. 7 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, 3 reception room, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, gym, sauna, lift, patio, garden. EPC: D. Approximately 624sq m (6,714 sq ft). Freehold

Guide price: £12,750,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/Kensington kens@knightfrank.com 020 3551 5156

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

KnightFrank.co.uk/KEN130202

York House - k and c = new

07/07/2015 12:33:03

Marloes Road, Kensington W8 Development opportunity in prime London Four storey mid-terrace property currently configured as eight bedsits. Former group house (House in Multiple Occupation). Planning permission for a change of use to a single dwelling. Located in Kensington, close to Kensington High Street and local amenities. EPC: D. Approximately 226.6 sq m (2,439 sq ft). Freehold disposal: with vacant possession

Offers in excess of: £2,500,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/kensington kens@knightfrank.com 020 3551 5156

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

KnightFrank.co.uk/KEN150077

Marloes Road, Kensington K and C - new

07/07/2015 14:44:29

Coleherne Mews, Chelsea SW10 Three bedroom quiet mews house with garage An immaculately refurbished three bedroom mews house with excellent entertaining space and a secure private garage, as well as a pretty roof terrace, a media room and a wine room. 3 bedroom suites, 3 reception rooms, guest WC, garage, roof terrace. EPC: C. Approximately 202 sq m (2,172 sq ft). Freehold

Guide price: £3,995,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/chelsea chelsea@knightfrank.com 020 3641 5903

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

KnightFrank.co.uk/CHL150045

K&C August - Chelsea, Coleherne Mews

07/07/2015 11:03:14

Clabon Mews, Knightsbridge SW1 Three bedroom mews house with garage An outstanding newly refurbished and interior designed mews house that has been finished to exacting modern standards. This exceptionally bright and wider than average house offers flexible accommodation throughout. Master bedroom with en suite bathroom, guest suite, bedroom 3, shower room, first floor double reception room, media room, kitchen, study, gym, garage, EPC: E. Approximately 221.8 sq m (2,387 sq ft). Leasehold: approximately 998 years remaining

Guide price: £5,950,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/knightsbridge knightsbridge@knightfrank.com 020 3641 5913 Struttandparker.com knightsbridge@struttandparker.com 020 3642 6979

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

KnightFrank.co.uk/SLA060689

K&C Aug 15 Clabon Mews

07/07/2015 09:27:53

Hereford Road, Notting Hill W2 Beautiful three bedroom flat A beautifully refurbished flat with a balcony situated on the third floor ﴾with lift﴿ of this highly sought after block. 3 bedrooms (2 en suite), 1 shower room, reception room, kitchen, balcony, access to communal gardens, gymnasium, portered, underground parking, EPC: C. Approximately 122.2 sq m (1,316 sq ft). Leasehold

Guide price: £2,250,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/nottinghill nottinghill@knightfrank.com 020 8166 5449

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

KnightFrank.co.uk/NGH120161

K&C August - 15, 29 Hereford road

06/07/2015 15:25:08

Ladbroke Square, Notting Hill W11 Five bedroom garden square house An exceptional and extremely well presented stylish family house. 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms (2 en suite), reception room, kitchen, 47ft long family room, dining area, study/bedroom 5, wine cellar, patio, garden, 3 balconies, eligible to apply to Ladbroke Square Gardens. EPC: E. Approximately 291 sq m (3,133 sq ft). Freehold

Guide price: £8,750,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/nottinghill nottinghill@knightfrank.com 020 8166 5449

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

KnightFrank.co.uk/NGH150089

K&C August - 39 Ladbroke Sq

06/07/2015 10:24:28

Lansdowne Road, Notting Hill W11 Four bedroom commnual garden flat Located on Lansdowne Road in arguably one of Notting Hill’s finest addresses. 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, double reception room, TV room/bedroom 5, kitchen, office, utility room, guest cloakroom, 2 terraces, access to communal gardens. EPC: D. Approximately 242 sq m (2,601 sq ft). Share of freehold

Guide price: £4,500,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/nottinghill nottinghill@knightfrank.com 020 8166 5449 Domusnova.com sales@domusnova.com 020 7727 1717

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

KnightFrank.co.uk/NGH150063

K&C August - 108 Lansdowne Road

06/07/2015 14:44:24

Bolton Gardens, London SW5 Stunning first floor apartment in South Kensington with three bedrooms A beautifully presented, triple aspect, first floor apartment with a sensational reception room and 3.3 metre high ceilings. 3 bedroom suites, guest WC, reception room, kitchen, utility room, lift. EPC: C. Approximately 142 sq m (1,531 sq ft). Leasehold: approximately 983 years remaining

Guide price: £4,350,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/southkensington southkensington@knightfrank.com 020 3641 6122 Farrar.co.uk sales@farrar.co.uk 020 7244 4466

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

KnightFrank.co.uk/SLA150130

K&C August - SK - Bolton Gardens

06/07/2015 15:06:37

Cornwall Mews West, South Kensington SW7 A stunning freehold mews house in SW7 Brought to you by mews development specialists, Joseph Homes, this unique three bedroom mews house is refurbished to an exacting standard. 3 bedrooms (all en suite), reception room, media room, kitchen/dining room, utility room, guest WC, garage/study, terrace. EPC: E. Approximately 190 sq m (2,055 sq ft). Freehold

Guide price: £4,350,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/southkensington southkensington@knightfrank.com 020 3641 6122

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

KnightFrank.co.uk/STK150088

K&C August - South Ken - Bolton Gardens

07/07/2015 12:47:03

Aubrey Road, Kensington W8 A rarely available three bedroom architect designed house The property has been newly refurbished by an international interior designer. The property benefits from an abundance of natural light and contemporary detailing and a superb custom built kitchen with access to garden. 3 double bedrooms, study/gym, formal reception room, media room, kitchen, private garden, Sonos music system and off street parking. EPC: D. Approximately 213 sq m ﴾2,294 sq ft﴿. Available furnished or unfurnished

Guide price: £2,950 per week KnightFrank.co.uk/KEQ97185

KnightFrank.co.uk/lettings kensingtonlettings@knightfrank.com 020 7937 8203

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

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

KC July 2015 - lk

07/07/2015 17:53:02

Cadogan Square, Knightsbridge SW1X Stunning three bedroom lateral apartment, designed by Candy & Candy This apartment is situated on the top floor with far reaching views, and has been renovated to a very high standard. 3 double bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, reception room, dining room, kitchen, study, resident porter, lift access. EPC: F. Approximately 194 sq m (2,084 sq ft). Available furnished

Guide price: £4,750 per week KnightFrank.co.uk/KNQ217659

KnightFrank.co.uk/lettings knightsbridgelettings@knightfrank.com 020 3641 6019

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

K&C - August 2015

06/07/2015 16:36:32

PROPERTY

PrimeQResi

Property News

Journal of Prime Property

PRIME RESI provides us with a comprehensive monthly round-up of key news about the local luxury property market

Prime Price Knightsbridge apartment asks £75m: Apartment C.08.1 in Candy & Candy’s One Hyde Park development has come up for sale again with a £75m price tag, thereby claiming the title of “most expensive property on the open market”. The 9,000 square foot lateral apartment on the eighth floor of Pavilion C takes up the entire level and is divided into two wings, ‘city’ and ‘park’, connected by a 50-metre hallway. All five bedrooms are in the city wing, while the park side houses the living and entertaining spaces. The apartment was listed for sale back in 2012 for £65m, but this new asking puts the price per square foot comfortably in stratospheric £8k+ territory (£8,343 to be exact). Bear in mind Stamp Duty alone would work out at £8,913,750. Savills has bagged the trophy instruction and describes the apartment as providing “a truly modern interpretation of sophisticated and luxurious city living”. The block famously furnishes residents with a raft of five-star facilities, including 24-hour security and concierge services provided by The Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, a library, business suites, entertainment room/dining area, private cinema, games room, wine storage, gymnasium, swimming pool and spa facilities, underground storage and secure underground parking.

primeresi.com

Market Comment Investing in Property Elena Dimova, managing director of CENTURY 21 Sophia Elena, weighs up how owning property in Prime Central London compares to investing in financial assets

The definition of a real asset is a physical or tangible asset that has intrinsic value and provides utility. This is what is so great about property: no matter what, it has value and it has a use. We live in a pretty turbulent world, politically, economically and financially. Recent events in Greece have once again highlighted how vulnerable the financial system and financial instruments are. Have your money in the bank and there are risks. Invest your money in financial instruments and there are different and higher risks. Shares can have swings of huge magnitude, currencies can be under pressure and cash may lose purchasing power through inflation. Although property is not riskless, it does not evaporate because it is driven by robust and tangible fundamentals. What makes people buy? A need for a place to live, cultural reasons – an Englishman’s home is his castle, disposable income, access to mortgages and attractive interest rates. Essentially, affordability. What increases the pool of people buying? Economic expansion, favourable demographics and interest from overseas buyers. What affects supply? Building new homes and existing property owners selling. In Prime Central London, due to conservation and planning laws, very rarely do we see new homes being built in any significant volume, as there is no new land and the majority of Prime Central London is protected. In a low interest rate environment, and with a healthy rental market, people mostly tend to sell only if they need to in order to make their next purchase possible and therefore fewer and fewer new properties come to the market. There is a healthy and structurally increasing demand, not least for demographic reasons, and a very constrained supply. People can always live in a property or rent it out – one way or another they are able to enjoy value from it. It seems to me property stacks up pretty well on a risk/reward basis compared to everything else out there. CENTURY 21 Sophia Elena, 10 Clarendon Road, W11 3AA, 020 7229 1414; century21uk.com

One Hyde Park Exterior with Cavalry Image courtesy of: Candy & Candy

137

Kensington & Chelsea.qxp_Layout 1 02/07/2015 16:45 Page 1

THE COURT HOUSE 3 bedroom duplex show apartment, complete with furniture

£1,350,000

Nestled in over 20 acres of private landscaped grounds, Charters is an iconic development of prestigious two and three bedroom apartments offering secure luxury living of the highest standard. ●

C H A R T E R S

•

20 acres of landscaped grounds

●

CCTV system

●

Electronic gates

●

15 miles to London Heathrow Airport

●

Estate managed by one of Europe’s leading hoteliers

●

50 foot heated pool

●

2 miles to Ascot Racecourse

●

Fully-equipped gymnasium

●

Sauna & steam rooms

4 miles to the Wentworth Club

●

Concierge service

●

Snooker room

●

All weather tennis court

●

Dedicated security team

Close to leading Independent schools, including Eton College, Wellington College and St. Mary’s Ascot

S U N N I N G H I L L

•

A S C O T

•

S L 5

9 Q Z

www.char ter suk.com VIEWING BY APPOINTMENT ONLY • lwilliamson@savills.com • 01344 295375

savills.co.uk

1 AN ELEGANT AND IMMACULATELY PRESENTED END OF TERRACE HOUSE warwick gardens, w14 Double reception room ø sitting room/playroom ø study ø open plan kitchen/dining room ø master bedroom suite ø 4 further bedrooms ø 2 further bath/shower rooms ø guest w.c. ø 291 sq m (3,135 sq ft) ø EPC=D Guide £5.25 million Freehold

Shaun Crockett Property

Savills Kensington

Shaun Crockett sales@shauncrockettproperty.com

Sarah Birch sbirch@savills.com

020 7629 1169

020 7535 3300

1 2

savills.co.uk

WILBY MEWS, w11

LINDEN GARDENS, w2

Reception room ø kitchen ø 2 bedrooms ø bathroom ø 81 sq m (874 sq ft) ø EPC=D

Reception room ø kitchen ø 2 bedrooms ø bathroom ø shared garden ø 96 sq m (1,030 sq ft) ø EPC=D

Guide £1.75 million

Guide £1.5 million Leasehold

Savills Notting Hill dpetrie@savills.com 020 7727 5750

Savills Notting Hill afrankish@savills.com 020 7727 5750

QUEEN'S GATE, sw7

EAST LODGE, w8

Open plan reception room/kitchen ø bedroom ø shower room ø third floor ø 68 sq m (727 sq ft) ø EPC=C

Reception room ø kitchen ø 2 bedrooms ø 2 bathrooms ø dressing room ø store room ø porter ø communal gardens ø 94 sq m (1,020 sq ft) ø EPC=D

Guide £1.295 million Leasehold

Guide £2.35 million Leasehold

Savills Kensington sholmes@savills.com 020 7535 3300

Savills Kensington tholcroft@savills.com 020 7535 3300

3 4

1 2

savills.co.uk

BEAUFORT STREET, sw3

EARLS COURT SQUARE, sw5

Drawing room ø kitchen ø master bedroom suite ø 2 further double bedrooms ø 2 bathrooms ø terrace ø 97 sq m (1,044 sq ft) ø EPC=D

Entrance hall ø reception room/dining room ø kitchen ø master bedroom ø bedroom 2/study ø bathroom ø terrace ø access to communal gardens ø 71 sq m (765 sq ft) ø EPC=C

Guide £1.7 million Leasehold

Guide £1.425 million Share of Freehold

Savills Chelsea apwright@savills.com 020 7578 9004

Savills Chelsea nridley@savills.com 020 7578 9002

EVELYN GARDENS, sw3

HEREFORD ROAD, w2

Reception room/kitchen/dining room ø master bedroom suite ø 2 further bedrooms (1 en suite) ø utility room ø underground storage vault ø terrace ø access to communal gardens ø 130 sq m (1,404 sq ft) ø EPC=D

Open plan reception room/dining room/kitchen ø master bedroom suite with walk-in wardrobe ø second bedroom suite ø balcony ø underground parking space ø porter ø 120 sq m (1,289 sq ft) ø EPC=D

Guide £2.6 million Share of Freehold

Guide £2.1 million Leasehold

Savills Chelsea cbubear@savills.com 020 7578 9005

Savills Notting Hill afrankish@savills.com 020 7727 5750

3 4

1 2

savills.co.uk

LETTINGS LAYOUT ONLY

ALBA PLACE, w11

KENSINGTON GARDENS SQUARE, w2

2 bedrooms ø reception room ø 2 bathrooms ø off-street parking ø 77 sq m (828 sq ft) ø Council Tax=F ø EPC=C

2 bedrooms ø reception room ø kitchen ø bathroom ø balcony ø terrace ø 76 sq m (819 sq ft) ø Council Tax=C ø EPC=C

Furnished £950 per week

Flexible furnishings £750 per week

+ £276 inc VAT tenancy paperwork fee and other charges may apply* Savills Notting Hill amackinnon@savills.com 020 7727 5751

STAFFORD COURT, w8

ACADEMY GARDENS, w8

Double bedroom ø reception room ø kitchen ø bathroom ø balcony ø lift ø 24 hour security ø 66 sq m (710 sq ft) ø Council Tax=E ø EPC=C

2 bedrooms ø reception room ø 2 bathrooms ø guest cloakroom ø comfort cooling ø swimming pool and gym ø 142.81 sq m (1,537 sq ft) ø Council Tax=H ø EPC=E

Furnished £775 per week

Furnished £1,900 per week

+ £276 inc VAT tenancy paperwork fee and other charges may apply* Savills Kensington lgood@savills.com 020 7535 3333

+ £276 inc VAT tenancy paperwork fee and other charges may apply* Savills Kensington ibreynardson@savills.com 020 7824 9005

3 4

*£36 additional tenant/occupant/guarantor referencereference where required. check out fee -check charged at the of or early *£36inc incVAT VATfor foreach each additional tenant/occupant/guarantor whereInventory required. Inventory out fee end – charged at termination the end of or early termination ofofthe andand the amount is dependent on the property and whether furnished/unfurnished. For more details For including fee, visit www.savills.co.uk/fees. thetenancy tenancy the amount is dependent on the size property size and whether furnished/unfurnished. moreexample details,inventory visit www.savills.co.uk/fees.

L L O

1 2

savills.co.uk

LETTINGS LAYOUT ONLY

SOUTH TERRACE, sw7

TREVOR PLACE, sw7

4 double bedrooms (1 en suite) ø 2 reception rooms ø study ø dining room ø kitchen/breakfast room ø 2 bathrooms ø patio garden ø utility room ø 236 sq m (2,543 sq ft) ø EPC=D

5 bedrooms (4 en suite) ø reception room ø kitchen/dining room ø shower room ø utility room ø patio garden ø air conditioning ø 222 sq m (2,398 sq ft) ø EPC=E

Unfurnished £3,250 per week

+ £276 inc VAT tenancy paperwork fee and other charges may apply* Savills Knightsbridge cbshanahan@savills.com 020 7584 8585

RADNOR WALK, sw3

COLEHERNE COURT, sw5

3 bedrooms ø reception room ø kitchen ø 2 bathrooms ø wooden floors ø newly refurbished ø 118 sq m (1,279 sq ft) ø Council Tax=H ø EPC=D

2 bedroom suites ø double reception room ø study ø separate kitchen ø storage ø communal gardens ø 24 hour porter ø lift ø 146 sq m (1,572 sq ft) ø EPC=D

Unfurnished £1,700 per week

Unfurnished £1,695 per week

+ £276 inc VAT tenancy paperwork fee and other charges may apply* Savills Chelsea cbshanahan@savills.com 020 7584 8585

+ £276 inc VAT tenancy paperwork fee and other charges may apply* Savills Chelsea stiarks@savills.com 020 7578 9011

3 4

1 2

savills.co.uk

LETTINGS LAYOUT ONLY

SHEFFIELD TERRACE, w8

HORNTON COURT WEST, w8

2 bedrooms ø reception room ø kitchen ø bathroom ø lift ø porter ø communal gardens ø 94.5 sq m (1,016 sq ft) ø Council Tax=G ø EPC=D

4 bedrooms ø 2 reception rooms ø kitchen ø 3 bathrooms ø dressing room ø utility room ø lift ø porter ø 219 sq m (2,356 sq ft) ø Council Tax=H ø EPC=C

Flexible furnishings £1,250 per week

Unfurnished £2,400 per week

+ £276 inc VAT tenancy paperwork fee and other charges may apply* Savills Kensington lgood@savills.com 020 7535 3333

LADBROKE ROAD, w11

WESTBOURNE TERRACE, w2

2 bedrooms ø reception room ø kitchen ø 2 bathrooms ø communal gardens ø garage ø 132 sq m (1,418 sq ft) ø Council Tax=G ø EPC=D

3 bedrooms ø reception room ø dining room ø kitchen ø 3 bathrooms ø patio ø 172 sq m (1,849 sq ft) ø Council Tax=D ø EPC=C

Unfurnished £950 per week

Flexible furnishings £2,750 per week

+ £276 inc VAT tenancy paperwork fee and other charges may apply* Savills Notting Hill amackinnon@savills.com 020 7727 5751

3 4

savills.co.uk

LETTINGS LAYOUT ONLY

EXCEPTIONAL FAMILY HOME IN CENTRAL CHELSEA swan walk, sw3 6 bedrooms ø 5 reception rooms ø media room ø study ø kitchen/family room with pantry and servery ø 5 bathrooms ø nursery ø maid's bedroom/bathroom ø wine cellar ø garden ø garage ø 463 sq m (4,980 sq ft) ø Council Tax=H ø EPC=E

Savills Chelsea Gilly Hayden ghayden@savills.com

020 7590 5073

Unfurnished Guide £8,500 per week + £276 inc VAT tenancy paperwork fee and other charges may apply* *£36inc incVAT VATfor foreach each additional tenant/occupant/guarantor whereInventory required. Inventory out fee end – charged at termination the end of or early termination *£36 additional tenant/occupant/guarantor referencereference where required. check out fee -check charged at the of or early of the tenancy and the amount is dependent on the property size and whether furnished/unfurnished. For more details, visit www.savills.co.uk/fees. of the tenancy and the amount is dependent on the property size and whether furnished/unfurnished. For more details including example inventory fee, visit www.savills.co.uk/fees.

Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk

Canning Place, W8

ÂŁ2500 per week Furnished/Unfurnished

A wonderful five bedroom house boasting off street parking and a large private garden. The house has been newly decorated but retains many character features with bright and spacious living accommodation. Located moments from Kensington Gardens. EPC: E

Academy Gardens, W8

ÂŁ3900 per week Furnished

A wonderful three bedroom lateral 4th floor apartment (with lift) in this highly sought-after prestigious development in Kensington. Offering 24 security, concierge, pool, gym and underground parking. Offered furnished. EPC: D

Hamptons Kensington Office Sales. 020 7717 5461 | Lettings. 020 7717 5459

Hans Place, SW1X Centrally located in Knightsbridge, this delightful first floor split level lateral period conversion boasts excellent room proportions, a wealth of natural light. (2,106 sq.ft/ 195.7 sq.m). EPC: C

£2,500.00 per week Unfurnished • • • • • •

Hamptons Knightsbridge Office Lettings. 020 7584 2014 | Sales. 020 7717 5461

Three bedrooms Three bathrooms Two reception rooms A wealth of natural light High ceilings Communal garden access

Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk

Earls Court Square, SW5 A stunning two double bedroom two bathroom flat located on the fourth floor in this renovated period conversion on this popular square in Earls Court. With a lovely 15’9 living room that has two steps up to the open plan kitchen area. Offering over 1200 sq ft of space this is an ideal apartment for a couple looking for a home in Central London. EPC: C

Hamptons Chelsea Office Sales. 020 7717 5481 | Lettings. 0207 3700 774

£935 per week • • • •

Two Bedrooms Two Bathrooms Communal Garden Lift

We look out for the best opportunities all summer long. When Britain takes to the beach, the team at Strutt & Parker takes to the pavements. And while you’re slurping ice cream, we’re scoping out great properties to buy, sell, let or rent. So while you’re away, we’ll take care of it all. Just call us before you pack your case, or pop into your nearest office.

struttandparker.com

50 Strutt & Parker offices nationwide | 1,350 Christie’s offices worldwide

a Unique perspective on...

Bramham Gardens, SW5 £2,300,000 Share of freehold A wonderful opportunity to acquire a Second Floor split level apartment (with lift) on one of South Kensington’s most sought after garden squares. The property extends to 1154sq/ft (107sq/m) and offers flexible accommodation with two bedrooms, two bathrooms and a dining room that could easily be converted into a third bedroom/study, kitchen, guest WC. Of particular note is the 20’6 wide, southerly facing reception room with three large windows. Southerly facing reception room | Kitchen | Dining room/ Bedroom three | Two bedrooms | En-suite bathroom | Shower room | Guest W.C | Access to garden square (STUCC) | Lift

SOUTH KENSINGTON | 020 7373 5052 southkensington@winkworth.co.uk

winkworth.co.uk/south-kensington

winkworth.co.uk on the go... No matter where you are, our properties are only a tap away.

buying renting and selling homes.

Courtfield Gardens, SW5 £1,300 Per week A rare opportunity to rent a very special three bedroom flat on the first floor of this prominent ‘wider than average’ period conversion with stunning leafy views over Courtfield Gardens (which it also enjoys access to).

SOUTH KENSINGTON | 020 7370 6767 southkensington@winkworth.co.uk

winkworth.co.uk on the go... No matter where you are, our properties are only a tap away.

Offices in London, the country and overseas. See things differently

a Unique perspective on...

Campden Street, London, W8 PRICE ON APPLICATION Freehold An attractive and very well-presented three bedroom Victorian terraced house with two floors of entertaining space including double reception room, kitchen/dining room and study. The principal bedroom has en suite bathroom and folding glass doors to balcony. The two further double bedrooms are served by a family bathroom and a cloakroom. There is a patio garden to the rear.

KENSINGTON | 020 7727 1500 kensington@winkworth.co.uk

winkworth.co.uk/kensington

winkworth.co.uk on the go... No matter where you are, our properties are only a tap away.

buying renting and selling homes.

Byam Shaw House, Campden Street, W8

ÂŁ1,575,000 LeaseHOLD

A lateral three bedroom flat situated on the second floor (with lift) of an attractive converted art school. The 22â&#x20AC;&#x2122; reception room has a large window overlooking Campden Street and has a square arch through to the kitchen. The principal bedroom has an en suite bathroom. There are two further bedrooms and a further bathroom.

KENSINGTON | 020 7727 1500 kensington@winkworth.co.uk

winkworth.co.uk on the go... No matter where you are, our properties are only a tap away.

Offices in London, the country and overseas. See things differently

a Unique perspective on...

Tedworth Square £1450 per week A contemporary redevelopment of this exquisite two double bedroom, two bathroom split level apartment ideal for entertaining with access to communal gardens. 2 Bedroom Modern Flat | Ground Floor and First Floor | Communal Gardens | Resident Parking | Furnished | 1339 Approx Sq ft

The Knightsbridge £1850 per week

Wilton Crescent £1399 per week

An exclusive one bedroom apartment, situated on the eighth floor of

Beautiful upper maisonette apartment with ample natural light

one of Knightsbridge’s most prestigious Portered blocks.

and period features. Wilton Crescent lies east of Lowndes Square and Lowndes Street, to the northwest of Belgrave Square.

Knightsbridge & Chelsea | 020 7589 6616 knightsbridge@winkworth.co.uk

winkworth.co.uk/knightsbridge-chelsea

winkworth.co.uk on the go... No matter where you are, our properties are only a tap away.

buying renting and selling homes.

St Georges Court £725 per week Top floor, spacious and chic two bedroom flat, with stunning views across London. St Georges Court is located on Brompton road, a short distance from South Kensington underground station. The flat has recently undergone a full refurbishment. 2 Bedroom Flat | Fifth floor (lift) | Resident Porter | Resident Parking | Furnished | 736 Approx Sq ft.

Egerton Gardens £600 per week

Crompton Court £650 per week

A stunning one bedroom flat with a large living room and particularly high

An excellent second floor (lift), two bedroom flat, with two

ceilings. Situated on the raised ground floor of a red brick period building

bathrooms and convenient to South Kensington underground

moments from South Kensington and a short walk to Knightsbridge.

station.

2 Bedroom period flat | Second floor (Lift) | Resident Parking | Unfurnished | 720 Approx Sq ft

Knightsbridge & Chelsea | 020 7589 6616 knightsbridge@winkworth.co.uk

winkworth.co.uk/knightsbridge-chelsea

winkworth.co.uk on the go... No matter where you are, our properties are only a tap away.

a Unique perspective on...

Ladbroke Grove, W11 ÂŁ1,550,000 A fabulously light, lateral, triple aspect apartment of almost 1000sqft, exuding a wonderful sense of space and light with excellent ceiling heights and large windows throughout. Spacious, dual aspect reception over 20 feet in length, two large bedrooms and a generous eat in kitchen as well access to beautiful communal gardens.

notting hill | 020 7727 3227 nottinghill@winkworth.co.uk

winkworth.co.uk/notting-hill

winkworth.co.uk on the go... No matter where you are, our properties are only a tap away.

buying renting and selling homes.

Powis Gardens, W11 ÂŁ1,750,000 This exceptional, architect designed apartment is beautifully presented in a contemporary style, providing over 1250sqft of well-arranged space, flooded with natural light. Entered from the first floor, stairs lead to open living space on the second, with three arched west facing windows. The upper floor is given over to a wonderful master bedroom suite with exposed brickwork creating a lofty feel, opening out to west facing terrace area, and with large en-suite bathroom to the rear. Additionally there are two further bedrooms and a bathroom.

notting hill | 020 7727 3227 nottinghill@winkworth.co.uk

winkworth.co.uk on the go... No matter where you are, our properties are only a tap away.

Offices in London, the country and overseas. See things differently

Spectacular rooftop garden in South Kensington Matching people and property in London for over 150 years.

Halsey Street SW3 ÂŁ6,750,000 A wonderful, five-bedroom family house finished to the highest standard located between Sloane Square and Knightsbridge. Freehold. EPC=C

Prime Sales: 020 7368 4197 PrimeSales@marshandparsons.co.uk

Holland Street W8 ÂŁ4,550,000 An exciting opportunity to acquire a charming six-bedroom Georgian Grade II listed family house, with a secluded walled garden and now in need of modernisation. Freehold. EPC=E

Kensington: 020 7368 4450 sales.kns@marshandparsons.co.uk

Princes Mews W2 ÂŁ4,000,000 A spectacular four-bedroom house tucked away is this quiet cobbled mews just off Hereford Road, with access to a beautiful private communal garden square. Freehold. EPC=E

Notting Hill: 020 7313 2890 sales.not@marshandparsons.co.uk

Hyde Park Gate SW7 ÂŁ3,750,000 A charming three-bedroom period flat located on a private road just off Kensington Gore and close to Kensington Palace. Share of Freehold. EPC=C

South Kensington: 020 7590 0800 sales.skn@marshandparsons.co.uk

Portland Road W11 ÂŁ2,999,950 A truly charming four-bedroom family home in this landmark Holland Park location on the doorstep of Clarendon Cross, with wonderful entertaining spaces and a 37ft garden. EPC=E

Holland Park: 020 7605 6890 sales.hol@marshandparsons.co.uk

Lennox Gardens SW1 ÂŁ2,750,000 A fabulous share of freehold first floor apartment with a separate study room and triple aspect views in a prestigious building situated in the highly desirable Lennox Gardens. EPC=E

Chelsea: 020 7591 5570 sales.chs@marshandparsons.co.uk

Lower Sloane Street SW1W ÂŁ2,350,000 A charming three-bedroom apartment set in a beautiful period conversion, arranged over the second and third floors in this exceptional Chelsea property. Share of Freehold. EPC=E

Chelsea: 020 7591 5570 sales.chs@marshandparsons.co.uk K

Longridge Road SW5 ÂŁ1,999,999 This superb three-bedroom apartment is set over the top two floors of a grand Victorian building minutes from the countless amenities that Earlâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Court, Gloucester Road and South Kensington have to offer. EPC=E

Earls Court: 020 7835 0620 sales.ect@marshandparsons.co.uk

Redcliffe Gardens SW10 ÂŁ1,750,000 A spacious ground and first floor two-bedroom apartment with vaulted ceilings and plenty of natural light, providing peaceful views over verdant gardens to the rear. EPC=C

Earls Court: 020 7835 0620 sales.ect@marshandparsons.co.uk

020 7221 1117 www.crayson.com

Uxbridge Street, Kensington W8 A truly enchanting house in the heart of the Hillgate village ready to move straight in, line up... Reception room, kitchen/dining room, master bedroom suite,two further bedrooms, two further bathrooms Terrace Two entrances 1,286 sq ft/ 119.5 sq m The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea EPC rating band D Sole Agent Freehold Guide Price ÂŁ2.35 million

10 Lambton Place, London, W11 2SH

020 7221 1117 www.crayson.com

Oxford Gardens, North Kensington W10 Happy days are here again in this groovy top floor flat - how oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life would improve if only one could live here. Reception room/ kitchen/ dinig area, two bedrooms and two bathrooms 1,294 sq ft/116 sq m The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea EPC rating band E Sole Agent Share of Freehold Guide Price ÂŁ1.495 million

10 Lambton Place, London, W11 2SH

carterjonas.co.uk

QUEENSDALE ROAD

WOODSFORD SQUARE

Holland Park W11

Holland Park W14

A superb family home with fantastic living space located on a sought-after residential road in Holland Park.

A fantastic family house set in this popular gated development with very generous living space located moments from Holland Park.

Double reception room • 3 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms Kitchen • Integral garage • South-facing terrace EPC rating F

Reception room • 5 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms • Kitchen Dining room • Enclosed patio and communal gardens EPC rating E

£2,250 per week*/£9,750 per month* Holland Park & Notting Hill

£1,750 per week*/£7,583.33 per month* Holland Park & Notting Hill

QUEENS GARDENS

NEVERN MANSIONS

Bayswater W2

Earls Court SW5

A fantastic apartment set in a white stucco fronted building on a prestigious garden square in Bayswater.

A very spacious two bedroom flat set in a handsome mansion block.

020 7371 3377 | jon.gittins@carterjonas.co.uk

Reception room • Bedroom • Bathroom • Kitchen Communal gardens • EPC rating C

£475 per week*/£2,058,33 per month* Holland Park & Notting Hill

020 7371 3377 | jon.gittins@carterjonas.co.uk

Large reception room • 2 bedrooms • Bathroom • Kitchen EPC rating E

£795 per week*/£3,445 per month* Holland Park & Notting Hill

020 7371 3377 | jon.gittins@carterjonas.co.uk

*Rent excludes administration fees. Please contact our branch who can provide this information.

ELYSTAN PLACE

KINGS ROAD

Chelsea SW3

A superb, extended and immaculately refurbished family home in this prime location in the heart of Chelsea.

A spectacular and very spacious flat offered to the market in newly refurbished order.

4 reception rooms • 5 bedrooms • 3 bathrooms • Patio Balcony • EPC rating D

£2,450 per week*/£10,616.67 per month*

Reception room • 2 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms • Kitchen Roof terrace • EPC rating E

£1,695 per week*/£7,345 per month*

Knightsbridge & Chelsea

020 7493 0676 | laurelin.taylor@carterjonas.co.uk

GLOUCESTER STREET

HANS PLACE

Pimlico SW1

Knightsbridge SW1

A simply gorgeous Pimlico family house extending to over 3,200 sq ft and refurbished throughout in a contemporary style while still retaining elegant period proportions.

An interior designed, wonderfully spacious maisonette with its own private entrance in the prestigious Hans Place, one of Knightsbridge`s prettiest garden squares.

4 reception rooms • 5 bedrooms • 3 bathrooms Patio garden • Balcony • EPC rating D

2 reception rooms • Kitchen • 4 bedrooms • 4 bathrooms Patio • EPC rating E

£2,600 per week*/£11,26.67 per month* Knightsbridge & Chelsea

£2,650 per week*/£11,483.33 per month*

020 7590 4696 | laurelin.taylor@carterjonas.co.uk

Knightsbridge & Chelsea

020 7590 4696 | laurelin.taylor@carterjonas.co.uk

carterjonas.co.uk

ASHCHURCH LODGE Ashchurch Terrace W12

Ashchurch Lodge is one of the most important villas in the Ravenscourt and Starch Green conservation area. This end of terrace house has a spectacularly large garden along with generous gated parking. 3 reception rooms • 7 bedrooms 3 bathrooms • Kitchen/dining room Studio apartment • Large garden EPC rating E

Guide price £4,950,000

Holland Park & Notting Hill 020 7471 9833 gareth.jones@carterjonas.co.uk

carterjonas.co.uk

LENNOX GARDENS Chelsea SW1

A beautiful Grade II listed building which has just been immaculately refurbished and is perfectly located for all the world renowned shops and restaurants of Knightsbridge. Reception room • 3 bedrooms 2 bathrooms • Upper floor with lift EPC rating C

Guide price £4,000,000

Knightsbridge & Chelsea

0207 584 7020 tom.mayfield@carterjonas.co.uk

RUTLAND GATE Chelsea SW7

A modern apartment situated in Knightsbridge offering a spacious open plan living area. This period apartment benefits from a lift and access to communal gardens. Reception room • 2 bedrooms 2 bathrooms • Upper floor with lift Communal garden • EPC rating D

Guide price £1,950,000

Knightsbridge & Chelsea 0207 225 1237 lily.terrell@carterjonas.co.uk

MORTIMER ROAD, NW10 £2,250,000 Freehold

A cool and contemporary family home with a playful and eclectic style in the heart of Kensal Rise. This expertly refurbished house encapsulates all that is changing in this vibrant and desirable pocket of west London. – – – – – – – –

Double reception room Vast eat-in kitchen / breakfast room Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom Two additional double bedrooms Two single bedrooms Family bathroom and separate wet room Garden incorporating a studio / garage Approx. 2,442 sq ft / 226.9 sq m. EPC=F

Domus Nova Notting Hill 17 Kensington Park Road W11 2EU 020 7727 1717 nottinghill@domusnova.com

K+C mag AUGUST Edition.indd 26-27

KENSINGTON PARK GARDENS, W11

£1,200 per week - admin fees apply* Long Let

A rare one-bedroom property which has been newly refurbished to the highest standard, offering direct access to stunning communal gardens. With its own private entrance, the apartment is located on a prestigious street in the heart of Notting Hill. – – – – – – –

Spacious living area Contemporary kitchen One double bedroom Separate mezzanine area Direct access to communal gardens Private entrance Approx. 848 sq ft / 78.7 sq m. EPC=D

10/07/2015 09:36:52

ALEXANDER STREET, W2

£3,950 per week - admin fees apply* Long Let A beautiful and stylish period townhouse demonstrating colourful, contemporary detail with traditional and vintage features throughout. The property is located on a beautiful tree-lined street in Notting Hill, close to Westbourne Grove. – – – – – – –

Three reception rooms Contemporary kitchen Three double bedrooms Two smart bathrooms Patio garden and balcony Off-street parking for two cars Approx. 2,905 sq ft / 269.9 sq m. EPC=E

Domus Nova Bayswater 78 Westbourne Grove W2 5RT 020 7221 7817 bayswater@domusnova.com

K+C mag AUGUST Edition.indd 28-29

w WOODFIELD ROAD, W9 £1,500,000 Share of Freehold

Offering truly exceptional warehousestyle living, a wonderfully bright split-level apartment with a private terrace. Combining a contemporary and stylish finish with an industrial twist, this property features an impressive 42” open-plan living area and a luxurious bedroom with access onto the terrace. – – – – – –

First and second-floor apartment Sensational open-plan living space Modern kitchen One bedroom with walk-in wardrobe Roof terrace Approx. 1,380 sq ft / 128.3 sq m. EPC=E

10/07/2015 09:37:09

ALDRIDGE ROAD VILLAS, W11 £5,000,000 Freehold

A skilfully and dramatically remodelled Notting Hill family home with contemporary elegance and refined traditional detailing. Incredibly unique, the property has been radically transformed by the recent repositioning of its staircase, freeing up the lateral space to each floor. – – – – – – –

Media room and two formal sitting rooms Modern kitchen / breakfast room First-floor master bedroom suite Three additional bedrooms, family bathroom and guest cloakroom West-facing garden and off-street parking Architect: Ben Smith Architecture Approx. 3,206 sq ft / 298 sq m. EPC=E

Domus Nova Notting Hill 17 Kensington Park Road W11 2EU 020 7727 1717 nottinghill@domusnova.com

K+C mag AUGUST Edition.indd 30-31

w SALUSBURY ROAD, NW6

£1,750 per week - admin fees apply* Long Let A magnificent and newly developed loft-style apartment presenting incredible double-height studio space, private parking and a roof terrace. Forming the upper floors of a historic armaments factory, this outstanding Queen’s Park property is incredibly rare to the market. – – – – – – – –

Expansive open-plan living space Contemporary kitchen Luxurious master bedroom suite Two guest bedrooms Mezzanine level Roof terrace Off-street parking Approx. 3,283 sq ft / 305 sq m. EPC=B

10/07/2015 09:37:28

BRIDGEMAN HOUSE, KENSINGTON HIGH STREET, W14 • 1 Bedrooms • 1 Bathrooms • Open plan kitchen/living room • 24 Hour concierge

• Resident only leisure suite • Close proximity to Knightsbridge • Approx. 641 sq ft (59.6 sq m) • EPC: current (B) potential (B)

GUIDE PRICE £950,000 LEASEHOLD For more information, call Jessica Conway 020 7087 5696 or email Jessica.Conway@eu.jll.com

JLL 387 Kensington High Street London W14 8QA

JLL.CO.UK

CHARLES HOUSE, KENSINGTON HIGH STREET, W14 • 3 Bedrooms • 3 Bathrooms (2 en-suite) • Open plan kitchen/living room • Private balcony

• 24 Hour concierge • Resident only leisure suite • Approx. 1,392 sq ft (129.3 sq m) • EPC: current (B) potential (B)

GUIDE PRICE £2,750,000 LEASEHOLD For more information, call Jessica Conway 020 7087 5696 or email Jessica.Conway@eu.jll.com

JLL 387 Kensington High Street London W14 8QA

JLL.CO.UK

CHARLES HOUSE, KENSINGTON HIGH STREET, W14 • 3 Bedrooms • 3 Bathrooms (2 en-suite) • Private balcony • 24 Hour concierge

• Resident only leisure suite • Close proximity to Knightsbridge • Approx. 1,388 sq ft (128.9 sq m) • EPC: current (B) potential (B)

GUIDE PRICE £1,600 PW FURNISHED For more information, call Kyle Best 020 7087 5696 or email Kyle.Best@eu.jll.com

JLL 387 Kensington High Street London W14 8QA

JLL.CO.UK

JLL will make an initial one-off tenancy agreement charge of £240 per tenancy plus £48 referencing charge per tenant. A minimum of six weeks’ rent will be required as deposit for all properties. For further details of our services and charges please visit resi.jll.co.uk.

WOLFE HOUSE, KENSINGTON HIGH STREET, W14 • 1 Bedrooms • 1 Bathrooms • Open plan kitchen/living room • 24 Hour concierge

• Resident only leisure suite • Close proximity to Knightsbridge • Approx. 728sq ft (67.6 sq m) • EPC: current (B) potential (B)

GUIDE PRICE £675 PW FURNISHED For more information, call Kyle Best 020 7087 5696 or email Kyle.Best@eu.jll.com

JLL 387 Kensington High Street London W14 8QA

JLL.CO.UK

RUTLAND GATE, KNIGHTSBRIDGE SW7 ● ● ● ●

2 Bedrooms Bathroom Guest cloakroom Drawing room

● ● ● ●

Kitchen Lift Approx. 694 sq ft (64 sq m) EPC rating: D

Guide price £1,750,000 Leasehold with 131 years remaining For more information, call Simon Green 020 7306 1610 or email sgreen@waellis.com JSA Savills 020 7581 5234

174 Brompton Road London SW3 1HP

waellis.com

RUTLAND STREET, KNIGHTSBRIDGE SW7 ● ● ● ●

1 Bedroom Bathroom (en suite) Reception room Kitchen / dining room

● ● ● ●

Utility room Cloakroom Approx. 730 sq ft (67 sq m) EPC rating: C

Guide price £1,525,000 Freehold For more information, call Robert Lewis 020 7306 1620 or email rlewis@waellis.com

174 Brompton Road London SW3 1HP

waellis.com

HOLLAND PARK W11 ● ● ● ●

2 Double bedrooms 1 Bathroom 1 Shower room (en suite) Reception room

● ● ● ●

Open plan kitchen Communal gardens Approx. 868 sq ft (80 sq m) EPC: current (D) potential (C)

Price £950 per week Unfurnished For more information, call Charlie Woods 020 7306 1630 or email cwoods@waellis.com

Potential tenants are advised that administration fees may be payable when renting a property. Please ask for details of our charges.

174 Brompton Road London SW3 1HP

waellis.com

ENNISMORE GARDENS MEWS, KNIGHTSBRIDGE SW7 ● ● ● ●

2 Double bedrooms 1 Bathroom (en suite) 1 Shower room (en suite) Guest cloakroom

● ● ● ●

Reception room Fully fitted kitchen Approx. 1,634 sq ft (151 sq m) EPC: current (D) potential (C)

Price £1,750 per week Unfurnished For more information, call James Grant 020 7306 1630 or email jgrant@waellis.com

Potential tenants are advised that administration fees may be payable when renting a property. Please ask for details of our charges.

174 Brompton Road London SW3 1HP

waellis.com

Established 1897

SYDNEY MEWS, South Kensington SW3 A beautifully presented three bedroom triplex apartment located moments from the shops and amenities of South Kensington. The property benefits from two private entrances, one on Sydney Mews and one on the Fulham Road. The accommodation comprises a substantial first-floor reception room with highceilings, a separate modern kitchen, a master bedroom with ensuite bathroom, two further double bedrooms (one ensuite), a family bathroom and plenty of storage throughout. Sydney Mews is located close to South Kensington station, just behind the Fulham Road. EPC rating D. Leasehold approximately 85 years remaining Guide Price ÂŁ2,950,000 020 7225 5752 john.harris@harrodsestates.com

KNIGHTSBRIDGE OFFICE: 82 BROMPTON ROAD LONDON SW3 1ER T: +44 (0)20 7225 6506 MAYFAIR OFFICE: 61 PARK LANE LONDON W1K 1QF T: +44 (0)20 7409 9001 CHELSEA OFFICE: 58 FULHAM ROAD LONDON SW3 6HH T: +44 (0)20 7225 6700 KENSINGTON OFFICE: 48-50 KENSINGTON CHURCH STREET W8 4DG T: +44 (0)20 3650 4600

HARRODSESTATES.COM @harrodsestates

Established 1897

BASIL STREET, Knightsbridge SW3 This elegant apartment (approximately 1,256 sq ft / 117 sq m) benefits from spacious accommodation and generous proportions and is located on the fourth floor of this well-run apartment block on Basil Street. Extensively refurbished a few years ago, it is currently arranged as two reception rooms and two bedrooms, but could easily be rearranged as a three bedroom apartment. Lincoln House is a purposebuilt Edwardian apartment block located on the north side of Basil Street; moments’ walk from Harrods, Harvey Nichols, Sloane Street and the fabulous world-class amenities that Knightsbridge has to offer. The building benefits from a large entrance reception hall, resident porter, security, lift and access to rear communal garden. EPC rating D. Leasehold approximately 993 years remaining Guide Price £3,500,000 020 7225 8044 henry.browne@harrodsestates.com

HARRODSESTATES.COM @harrodsestates

Established 1897

PEMBRIDGE VILLAS, Notting Hill W11 Located next to the big brands, boutiques and cafes of Westbourne Grove and Portobello Road this immaculately presented two bedroom period conversion has been fully refurbished to a very high standard. The property consists of a large, stylish reception room which leads onto a separate dining area, equipped with drinks cabinet, wine cooler and six-seater table, a master bedroom with a walk-in wardrobe, a good size second bedroom, a beautiful bathroom which has a freestanding bath and integrated shower and a modern kitchen that leads onto a fantastic private garden. EPC rating F. Price per week: £1,100 Plus property fees: £180 Admin & £190 Checkout References: £42 per person* *http://www.harrodsestates.com/tenants 020 3650 4604 sam.wright@harrodsestates.com

HARRODSESTATES.COM @harrodsestates

Established 1897

BRIDGEMAN HOUSE, High Street Kensington W14 A beautifully finished, modern three bedroom apartment on the eighth floor of this landmark development at 375 Kensington High Street. The apartment consists of two double bedrooms, one of which is ensuite, a third bedroom/ study and a family bathroom. The open-plan kitchen and reception room lead out to a large balcony with impressive views across London. There is a 24-hour concierge service supplied by Harrods Estates and an amazing leisure area which includes resident’s gym, swimming pool and spa.The apartment comes with one secure parking space. Available now for long term let on a furnished basis. EPC rating B. Price per week: £1,700 Property Fees: Admin £180, Checkout £210 References: £42 per person* * http://www.harrodsestates.com/tenants 020 3650 4604 sam.wright@harrodsestates.com

HARRODSESTATES.COM @harrodsestates

Canning Place Mews W8 ÂŁ1,365,000 Leasehold 91 years remaining Gloucester Road Sales 020 7581 1152 | grsales@dng.co.uk

South

Balham

Battersea

North

Chelsea

Fulham

Battersea Park

A wonderful apartment which is flooded with natural light, on one of Kensington's prettiest mews. The property is located just a two minute walk away from the famous and open spaces of Kensington Gardens.

Clapham

East Putney

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

Kensington

2 double bedrooms, Bathroom, Reception room, Kitchen, Porter, EPC: D

Southfields & Earlsfield

West Putney

Kensington Gate

South Kensington

Notting Hill

Pimlico & Westminster

douglasandgordon.com

Cranmer Court SW3 ÂŁ1,195,000 Share of Freehold Chelsea Sales 020 7225 1225 | chelseasales@dng.co.uk

A stunning flat which has been refurbished and renovated by the current owners, to the highest standard throughout. The accommodation offers generous and well planned living space and would make an excellent pied a terre.

Bedroom, Bathroom, Reception room, Kitchen/breakfast room, Lift, Porter, Off-street parking, EPC: C

Avondale Park Gardens W11 ÂŁ995 per week + admin fees* Furnished/Unfurnished Notting Hill Lettings 020 7727 8000 | nhlets@dng.co.uk

South

Balham

Battersea

North

Chelsea

Fulham

Battersea Park

A spacious cottage set in the fabulous location on an attractive garden square in Holland Park. The property is presented in excellent condition and offers superb a great deal of charm and character throughout.

Clapham

East Putney

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

Kensington

3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en suite), Reception room, Kitchen/breakfast room, Study/4th bedroom, Garden, EPC: D

Southfields & Earlsfield

West Putney

Kensington Gate

South Kensington

Notting Hill

Pimlico & Westminster

douglasandgordon.com

Holland Park Avenue W11 £900 per week + admin fees* Furnished Notting Hill Lettings 020 7727 8000 | nhlets@dng.co.uk

A ground floor, period conversion, flat which has been recently refurbished. Finished to the highest standard throughout, the property mixes period charm with a contemporary interior.

2 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en suite), Reception room, Open-plan kitchen, EPC: D

Good to know... *An initial one-off tenancy agreement fee of £240 (inc VAT) per property and a £45 (inc VAT) referencing charge per person will apply. At the end of the tenancy an inventory check-out fee will be charged, this amount will depend on the size of the property and whether it is furnished/unfurnished. For more details visit www.douglasandgordon.com/tenants/infoandcharges

RUTLAND COURT, KNIGHTSBRIDGE, SW7

A truly exceptional lateral apartment on the first floor of an exclusive block in the heart of Knightsbridge with the huge advantage of private parking. The apartment benefits form excellent proportions and was refurbished to the highest standard ten years ago. Rutland Gardens is a private road and offers gated 24 hour security. Double width drawing room, a wonderful wood panelled entrance hall, dining room, 3 bedrooms, bathroom and cloakroom.

Share of Freehold â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ÂŁ8,950,000

WOODSFORD SQUARE, ADDISON ROAD, W14

A fantastic family home with a much larger garden than normal, situated in one of the best positions within the development. The accommodation comprises 2 reception rooms, fitted kitchen, separate dining area, 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, study, large walled garden, terrace and integral garage. This award winning development is surrounded by well maintained communal gardens.

Freehold â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ÂŁ3,650,000

ADDISON ROAD, HOLLAND PARK, W14

To Let – £2,500 per week Unfurnished

Full of classic charm in a modern style, this penthouse apartment set within a prestigious villa in a popular residential road. 2 reception rooms, modern fitted kitchen, 3 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, guest’s cloakroom, utility cupboard and balcony overlooking the communal garden. There is also a garage and off street parking.

ADDISON ROAD, HOLLAND PARK, W14

To Let – £1,300 per week Unfurnished

Situated on this prestigious tree lined road, a first floor flat in a detached period villa with excellent proportions. This property comprises superb reception room with high ceilings, large double doors to the kitchen, three double bedrooms, en suite shower room, bathroom and utility cupboard. Amenities include use of communal garden and lock up storage unit.

ABBOTSBURY CLOSE, KENSINGTON, W14

To Let – £1,495 per week Unfurnished

A four bedroom town house arranged over three floors with a garage and a west facing rear garden. The house is within a stone’s throw of the gates of Holland Park. The accommodation comprises 2 reception rooms, fully fitted kitchen, 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, cloakroom, integral garage and rear garden.

OAKWOOD COURT, HOLLAND PARK, W14

To Let – £1,150 per week Unfurnished

A stunning 2/3 bedrooms apartment which is located on the fourth floor of a sought after building, moments from Holland Park. The property comprises spacious entrance hall with study area, reception room leading to further reception or bedroom 3, master bedroom with en suite shower room, second double bedroom, bathroom and large eat in kitchen. Presented in excellent order.

London property. Capital services. Now at home in So u

0 5 %

commission on property sales.

% letting fee.

kfh.co.uk/southkensington

For full terms and conditions visit www.kfh.co.uk/southkensington

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Sout

o uth Kensington. To celebrate the launch of our new South Kensington branch, we are offering an exclusive 0% commission on property sales and 5% letting fee for landlords for a limited time. With over 35 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience in the London property market, and more than 50 branches across the Capital, we will draw on our existing London-wide network and local expertise to deliver the right result, whatever your requirements. Contact us today for a free no obligation valuation.

Visit us at: 29 Harrington Road SW7 3HD Sales 020 3199 8394 Email southkensington.sales@kfh.co.uk

18:02

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Lettings 020 3199 8395 Email southkensington.lettings@kfh.co.uk

09/06/2015 18:03

Campden Hill Gardens, Kensington, W8 £3,450,000 Holland Park 020 3542 2111 hollandpark.sales@kfh.co.uk

08.15 KFH Kensington and Chelsea.indd 2

Beautiful three bedroom garden maisonette featuring a beautiful triple aspect reception room with a high ceiling, huge bay window and a stunning designer kitchen. Situated in a handsome, end of terrace Victorian building close to local amenities and excellent transport links.

• • • • • • • •

Three double bedrooms Three stylish bathrooms Large designer kitchen South facing reception room High ceilings Private garden Shared freehold EPC rating B

07/07/2015 14:55

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Cornwall Gardens, South Kensington, SW7 £2,100pw South Kensington 020 3040 6380 southkensington.lettings@kfh.co.uk

14:55

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Fully refurbished two bedroom, two bathroom apartment in Cornwall Gardens arranged on the second floor offering over 900 sq ft of living space.

• Two bedrooms • Two bathrooms • Apple AirPlay and speakers in • • • •

all rooms Large balcony Communal gardens Furnished or unfurnished EPC rating C

07/07/2015 16:48

A Game of Two Halves Simon Barnes and Lajla Turner from Bodens Residential in Chelsea talk to Hannah Lemon about friendly rivalry in sales and lettings

There is a heatwave taking over London. It’s terribly exciting, except that the majority of us are pent up in our offices, not seeing the light of day. For once, this does not include me. I am with Simon Barnes, Associate Director, and Lajla Turner, Lettings Manager, at Bodens Residential, chatting in an airy courtyard of a flat on Queens Gate in South Kensington. “Some clients won’t even look at the lower ground floor,” says Lajla, “for the obvious clichés of it being dark with low ceilings or because it used to be the old servant quarters. This property defies all of that.” A retractable roof means that sun floods into the sitting room and kitchen, filling the house with bright light. There is even a barbecue folded up in the corner in preparation for summer. Fear of gloomy interiors is not all that puts off clients from some property viewings, Simon explains. Working in a market dominated by international buyers comes the need to be aware of different cultures and attitudes. “Certainly with the Chinese market numbers are very significant,” says Simon. “In large developments clients won’t buy on certain floors; 44 is double death and eight is eternal wealth and prosperity.” With significant interest from Middle Eastern and Asian clients, it’s obvious that requests will differ. “One of our clients, for example, never wants to open the front door and see the stairs,” Simon continues. “We’ve sold him many properties over the years and he has done fantastically well as a buy-to-let investor. If he has a new search coming on, he will consult his feng shui expert. It’s very interesting.” There has also been an increase in interest from Europeans in the area. “A big proportion of our South Kensington and Chelsea market are French or Italians,” explains Simon. “We have lost a few from this client base in recent times with the ebb and flow of the market but they are coming back now as confidence returns post election. They love London. It is a city that embraces and absorbs cultures. South Kensington is petit France! We often buy our lunch on Bute Street, which could be in any French city.” Why has it taken them a while to come back to the market? “Over the last ten years, it has been either feast or famine in Chelsea,” continues Simon. “We have seen tremendous growth and rising prices but also some changes that the market has had to absorb. It takes time for adjustments to happen.” At the moment, he explains, the threat of Mansion Tax has been eliminated but Stamp Duty is still an issue for some. Does this mean that certain price brackets are faring better than others? “Because

Simon Barnes and Lajla Turner Photography: Sarel Jansen

PROPERTY

Stamp Duty has been graded, purchase cost is much cheaper now for people up to just under £1 million and then after that there are some marked increases you have to pay.” As always, sensible pricing is the key – Bodens has just been instructed on a flat in Egerton Gardens in Knightsbridge going on at a rate per square foot circa £2,050, which is the correct level and gaining a lot of interest. “The market up to £2 million is really busy,” he declares. Simon predicts that the summer will be busy for sales, but so does Lajla in lettings. I test the waters to see if there is any heated rivalry between the teams but it seems that the two camps are more like referral partners than rival enemies. “It’s very rare for clients to put a property on with sales and lettings,” says Lajla. “Now properties normally fall into one category or the other. What a tenant is looking for and what a buyer is looking for are two different things.” This is far removed from the market after the Lehman Brothers crash, when

“W1o prices have gone through the roof, especially the garden squares. I think the same will happen to Earls Court” people wanted to make cash fast. “It was a first-past-the-post philosophy then,” Lajla explains. “Vendors just wanted to make money somehow. That was the last time we saw an ‘either/or’ situation where people were putting properties on for sales and lettings.” It does seem nonsensical, though, that some vendors keep houses in Prime Central London vacant, but Lajla assures me that it wouldn’t make any difference if they did let them. “One of our clients is of such great net worth that he keeps his property empty for his pilot or the family nanny to use. And there are many more like him.” However, Lajla admits that she always tries to persuade the sales team to bring in buy-to-let investors. Although she has been with Bodens for just over a year, she has worked in Prime Central London lettings since 2006, and has plenty of experience in advising clients to make the most out of their investment. “Probably 80 per cent of buyers are looking to add value to their property. With this apartment, for example, there are improvements to be made, which is why I would really like a buy-to-let investor to buy it. I can see how it could be improved to maximise the rental potential.” This knowledgeable advice and experience has led to a 90 per cent renewal rate in 2014–2015. For those looking for an investment, Lajla and Simon both agree on the best areas, namely SW1, 3 and 7 for solid long-term blue chip investments. They also mention SW10 by Chelsea Harbour and Earls Court, both of which are seeing a lot of regeneration. “W10 prices have gone through the roof, especially the garden squares, such as Oxford Gardens. I think the same thing will happen with Earls Court,” says Lajla. “Hopefully, now things are looking busier, estate agents will benefit, certainly from the lettings side.” Looking over to Simon she laughs, “And sales! We have a healthy rivalry here!” Bodens Residential, 102 Draycott Avenue, Chelsea, SW3 3AD Sales: 020 7589 2000; Lettings: 020 7225 0433; bodensresidential.com

211

BODENS bodensresidential.com

sales@bodensresidential.com

020 7589 2000

sales@bodensresidential.com

020 7589 2000

102 Draycott Avenue Chelsea SW3 4AD

FIRST STREET, SW3 £1,850 PER WEEK Unfurnished Immaculately Presented West-Facing Period Terraced House

BODENS bodensresidential.com

lettings@bodensresidential.com

Double Reception Rooms | Open Plan Kitchen with

020 7225 0433

TEDWORTH SQUARE, SW3 £850 PER WEEK furnished

En-suite Shower Room | Bathroom | Live in Caretaker | Access to Garden Square | EPC D

Newly Refurbished, Bright South-Facing Maionette

lettings@bodensresidential.com

Reception | Fully Fitted Kitchen | 2 Bathrooms |

020 7225 0433

CROWN SLOANE LODGE, AVENUE, ELYSTAN CHELSEA, STREET, SW3SW3

£875 £850 PER WEEK • TWO BEDROOMS • TWO BATHROOMS • RECEPTION ROOM • WOOD FLOORS • DOUBLE BEDROOM • RECEPTION ROOM • BATHROOM • OPEN-PLAN POGGENPOHL • • GYM •• WOOD FLOORING • PORTERED BLOCK • POOL • COMMUNAL GARDENS • EPC B UNDERLOOR HEATING • SURROUND SOUND SYSTEM • HIGH CEILINGS • EPC E PLUS £240 ADMINISTRATION FEE AND £60 REFERENCING FEE PER PERSON

CHELSEA OFFICE CHELSEA OFFICE 2 CaleStreet, Street, London London SW3 2 Cale SW33QU 3QU +44 (0)20 7581 5011 chelseaoffice@henryandjames.co.uk +44 (0)20 7581 5011 chelseaoffice@henryandjames.co.uk

henryandjames.co.uk henryandjames.co.uk

CROWN SLOANE LODGE, AVENUE, ELYSTAN CHELSEA, STREET, SW3SW3

£1,750,000 £875 PER FREEHOLD WEEK • DOUBLE • TWO BEDROOM BEDROOMS • RECEPTION • RECEPTION ROOM ROOM • BATHROOM • BATHROOM • OPEN-PLAN • SHOWER POGGENPOHL ROOM • • UNDERLOOR • KITCHEN HEATING • LIFT • 24 SURROUND HOUR PORTER SOUND • LEISURE SYSTEMCENTRE • HIGH CEILINGS • EPC C • • EPC E PLUS £240 ADMINISTRATION FEE AND £60 REFERENCING FEE PER PERSON

CHELSEA OFFICE CHELSEA OFFICE

2 Cale Street, London SW3 3QU 2 London SW3 3QU +44 (0)20 7581 Cale 5011Street, chelseaoffice@henryandjames.co.uk +44 (0)20 7581 5011 chelseaoffice@henryandjames.co.uk

henryandjames.co.uk henryandjames.co.uk

Wilton crescent, belgravia, sW1x Situated within one of London’s most exclusive and elegant crescents is this beautifully restored exceptional Grade II Listed late Regency six storey period house, overlooking the central gardens and is offered together with the rare benefit of two Mews houses, three private garages, a private enclosed garden, a roof garden and glass covered mezzanine terrace. The house has been decorated by the renowned interior designer, Robert Kime, with a selection of wall coverings, fabrics and furnishings especially commissioned from the designer.

AIX-EN-PROVENCE • BROOKLYN • CANNES • COURCHEVEL • DOHA • GENEVA • GSTAAD • LAKE COMO • LONDON • MADRID • MANHATTAN • MAURITIUS • MEGEVE

www.john-taylor.com

The accommodation comprises:

Mews Houses

Three Reception Rooms | Five Bedrooms | Five Bathrooms | Two Kitchens | 3 Garages EPC Rating E,F,F.

John Taylor UK 48 Berkeley Square, London W1J 5AX Tel: 020 3284 1888 Email: london@john-taylor.com

£32,000,000 freehold

MERIBEL • MIAMI • MILAN • MONACO • MOSCOW • PALM BEACH • PARIS • ST JEAN-CAP-FERRAT • ST PAUL DEVENCE • ST TROPEZ • THE HAMPTONS • VALBONNE

www.john-taylor.com

Queen’s Gate Terrace South Kensington SW7

A three bedroom second floor lateral apartment positioned in this beautiful Grade II Listed Victorian building. Entrance Hall • Drawing Room • Dining Room • Kitchen • Master Bedroom with Ensuite Bath and Shower Room Further Two Bedrooms with Ensuite Bathrooms • Guest Cloakroom • Lift • Porter • Communal Gym

SHA RE OF F RE EH OLD

JS A S AV IL L S 020 7581 5234

£4,650,000

020-7225 0277 www.russellsimpson.co.uk

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RHP

Waldron House Chelsea SW3

Immaculately refurbished, this is an exquisite three bedroom apartment with secure parking and arguably some of the finest views that Chelsea has to offer. Reception Room/Open-Plan Kitchen • Guest Cloakroom • Master Bedroom Ensuite and walk-in Wardrobe • Two Further Bedrooms Bathroom • Lift • Balcony • Resident's Parking • Garage • EPC Rating D

SHA RE OF F RE E H OLD

£3,495,000

020-7225 0277 www.russellsimpson.co.uk

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On the Bright Side Elena Dimova, managing director of CENTURY 21 Sophia Elena, looks forward to summer time and not just for the weather, as Hannah Lemon finds out

Photography: Sarel Jansen

I meet Elena Dimova in a grand five-bedroom terraced house in Knightsbridge on a quiet and sunny residential street. The property was sold to a happy client through the Century 21 Holland Park office last year and they recommended that Elena use it for today’s photo shoot. This thoughtful and unusual offer is evidence that the global organisation Century 21, which has 6,900 offices across 78 countries, manages to invest in relationships on a very personal level. “Our ethos centres around clients, our relationship with them, the services we provide and our knowledge of the market,” Elena tells me.

Being part of such a large organisation has its perks. “We have an exciting global website,” she explains. “It is translated into 16 different languages and 36 different currencies. Our clients from all over the globe can go to the website and not only find property anywhere in the world but also in their own currency.” In Elena’s office in Holland Park the team speaks English, Greek, Spanish, Polish and Bulgarian, which is useful at this time of year when international buyers come to the market. “Activity is certainly increasing over the summer,” divulges Elena. “You would expect it to after a more cautious first half of the year. International buyers who want to purchase

PROPERTY

this year will likely do so during their summer visit to London. Local buyers will get busy in September when they come back from holiday; they will want to be in their new home before year-end. As is the story with most agents, the election saw people hold off buying until the outcome was clear. “Buyers’ confidence has increased tremendously, but sellers’ confidence and their expectations have increased even more,” she adds. “It has created a little bit of a mismatch, where sellers are overshooting what may be achievable.” The repercussions of Stamp Duty and other recent tax changes are still being absorbed, which has changed the focus of overseas buyers. “We tend to mostly deal with properties from about £1 million to about £10 million. People who buy for themselves mainly choose houses and lateral apartments in the middle of that range, unless they are after a trophy property, but we are seeing investment buyers going for the lower end of the bracket. It does not mean that one group has a bigger budget than the other; for people who are buying for themselves, they want to get the best home for their money, but investment buyers are breaking it down into smaller units because it makes more tax sense.” Elena outlines that some clients will purchase two

“Our ethos centres around clients, our relationship with them and our knowledge of the market” £2 million properties as an investment, rather than one at £4 million. “Before the tax changes, bigger houses were seen as investment properties as well, but now it’s starting to make less sense in comparison.” Elena tells me that the change in the political, economic and tax climate means that people may not buy property as often as they used to. When Stamp Duty was lower and mortgages easier to obtain, property owners might have comfortably upgraded every couple of years. Buyers now think strategically and with a longer time horizon. When they do decide to re-enter the market, they look for exactly the right product for their property needs. “In places like Kensington and Holland Park, there are more home owners, whereas in areas like Bayswater and Paddington there are more rented properties, on a relative basis. If a client is searching for a home, they will be looking at fireplaces, ceiling heights and garden squares. Proximity to schools and amenities will be crucial. If a client is looking at something they are going to let out, the focus will be on facilities such as concierge, a pool and gym, which will appeal to renters.” New developments in Kensington, such as 375 Kensington High Street and many of the developments in Paddington Basin, are catering for that market. “Those looking for a prestigious pied-à-terre will opt for luxury developments, such as Academy Gardens in Kensington, which offer impressive historical architecture as well as manicured gardens, and excellent facilities and services.” Elena outlines that this attracts a wide range of people to the area. “In central London the occupation of buyers and where their wealth comes from

is very varied. There are writers and politicians, bankers and industry people, actors and musicians; I think the diversity of professions is unique. Prime Central London property is an attractive and fairly safe investment because if one particular industry suffers, like in the banking crisis of 2008/2009, real estate does not feel the impact in the same way as it would in an area very exposed to one specific economic sector. In Prime Central London, we are also seeing more and more people buying properties for their children, adding to the diversification of type of owners. Property is a good investment – they can rent it out and when their kids go to university in London they can stay there.” But we must not forget, Elena reminds me, that “activity on the property market depends on how realistic sellers are”. CENTURY 21 Sophia Elena, 10 Clarendon Road, W11 3AA 020 7229 1414; century21uk.com

221

www.century21uk.com/nottinghill

nottinghill@century21uk.com

QUEEN’S GARDENS BAYSWATER W2

£1,750,000 share of freehold

10 Clarendon Road London W11 3AA

020 7229 1414

CHEYNE ROW

• 2 Modern bathrooms

CHELSEA SW3 | £1,395,000

Address AGENT

P R I V E´

• 2 Reception rooms

This well appointed, bright and airy garden apartment is nestled amongst the quiet residential streets of Chelsea's historic Cheyne Walk and Chelsea Embankment. The Apartment boasts a wealth of modern fixtures and fittings, under floor heating, an elegant feature fireplace and bi-folding doors leading onto it's tranquil and secluded private patio garden. The property is situated a stone's throw from the River Thames, Albert Bridge and Chelsea Embankment and within a moments walk of a multitude of excellent fine dining restaurants and bars in addition to the exceptional amenities of the Kings Road and sports facilities of Battersea Park.

P ROPE RTY

• 2 Double bedrooms

• Share of freehold

2 r e o b e r m

• Underﬂoor heating • 829 square feet • Private secluded terrace

1st Asset Management

Telephone

+ 44 (0) 207 014 3800

7-9 Tryon Street

info@1stasset.co.uk

London SW3 3LG

Web

www.1stasset.co.uk

22 GREAT WINDMILL ST W1D | £3,985,000

Address AGENT

P R I VE´

• 2 Grand reception rooms • 2 Bright terraces

22 Great Windmill Street is an elegant and stylish contemporary re-development of a two bedroom period building with exceptional entertaining space on a quiet and discreet road within the heart of Soho. With its own private entrance from the street, there are beautiful details such as handmade wooden floors and stylish exposed block work. Great Windmill Street in the heart of Soho, running north from Shaftesbury Avenue, is well positioned for the many bars and upmarket restaurants of Soho.

P ROPE RTY

• 2 Large double bedrooms

• 2 contemporary marble bathrooms • Bespoke integrated furniture and joinery though out • Excellent transport links

1st Asset Management

Telephone

+ 44 (0) 207 014 3800

7-9 Tryon Street

info@1stasset.co.uk

London SW3 3LG

Web

www.1stasset.co.uk

Clabon Mews, Chelsea SW1X A stunning four bedroom, freehold mews house situated in the heart of Knightsbridge. The property boasts a large bright reception room, four good sized bedrooms, an integral garage and all the latest technology including Crestron controlled home entertainment system, Lutron lighting and air conditioning throughout. Situated moments from Cadogan Square, the property is also within easy reach of Sloane Street, Sloane Square and all the restaurants and boutiques of Kings Road and Harrods. This would be the perfect rental investment, pied de terre or home.

020 7580 2030 WWW.ROKSTONE.COM 5 Dorset Street, London, W1U 6QJ enquiries@rokstone.com

£5,750,000 »»Mews house »»Knightsbridge »»Four bedrooms »»Large reception room »»Garage »»Air conditioning throughout »»2,594 sq ft

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SWISS LET

BLOCKS OF FLATS PURCHASED IN PRIME CENTRAL LONDON SWISS HEDGE FUND PREMIUM PRICES PAID OFF MARKET Tel: 020 7581 2222

Swiss Group www.swisslet.london

Grenville Place, SW7 1,065 SQ.FT/99 SQ.M

On the market for the first time in over 40 years, this impressive three bedroom, split level flat is situated on the first floor of a superbly maintained period building and now requires refurbishment.

Price: ÂŁ1,695,000

Share of Freehold

020 7590 9339

Courtfield Road, SW7 454 SQ.FT/42.2 SQ.M

A super one bedroom raised ground floor flat with its own private street entrance and access to communal gardens.

Price: ÂŁ795,000

Share of Freehold

020 7590 9339

38 Gloucester Road, SW7

www.dominic.london

sales@dominiclondon.com

20 Montpelier Street Knightsbridge London SW7 1HD

Eaton Place Belgravia | 4 bedrooms | 4 bathrooms | EPC: E | 2925 sqft Located in the heart of Belgravia, this 4 bedroom apartment arranged over ground, lower ground and basement floors has been immaculately refurbished to offer the highest in quality and elegance whilst being cleverly designed to allow natural light into all levels. The apartment boasts 3 bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, a spacious and modern kitchen with breakfast room, a double reception room, media room with the option, if necessary of becoming the 4th bedroom and 4 terraces. Every room has been fitted with attention to quality and detail with walnut or marble flooring throughout and air conditioning and under floor heating.

ÂŁ8,500,000 JAY MEWS Knightsbridge | 2 bedroom | 2 bathrooms | EPC: D | 889 sqft This immaculately presented mews house, located close to Hyde Park, features two double bedrooms with en suite bathrooms, one with a Jacuzzi bath, a large open plan reception/dining room with wooden floors and an abundance of natural light and a fully fitted modern and stylish kitchen. There is also a large roof terrace, a dumb waiter and a wine fridge which makes it perfect for entertaining.

ÂŁ1,050 per week T: +44 (0)20 3770 3474

info@nicolasvanpatrick.com

international

HOMES showcasing the FINEST PROPERTIES from AROUND THE WORLD

Enjoy Albania Kep Merli Resort and ResidenceS, Albania’s first luxury eco-resort, is set to open the eyes of discerning travellers to the luxuries of the country. The site, which is set for completion in 2018, will be committed to using only the highest standards of amenities and services to create a hallmark of excellence in hospitality and eco-travel. The resort’s 28 acres of land are tucked between the Albanian coastal towns of Saranda and Ksamil, two miles to the north of the Greek island of Corfu, sharing the same pristine waters of the Ionian Sea. Guests can choose to stay in one of two five-star hotels, managed under the Falkensteiner brand, or try the exclusive private luxury residential villas. This collection will offer extensive space and privacy in a serene and secluded area. All accommodations will encompass floor-to-ceiling windows with spectacular vistas of the sea during the day and the colourful sunsets at dusk. Residents and guests will enjoy access to an array of private facilities and services including a yacht marina, restaurants, bars, shops, two private beaches, a spa and wellness centre, a sports club, a diving centre and other year-round activities. The resort’s ecological approach to architecture and design underscores its dedication to sustainability and eco-tourism. An abundance of local leisure activities and sites around Kep Merli give guests a chance to explore the beauty, history and culture of Albania. Recommended sites include the historical UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Butrint, Corfu Old Town, Gjirokaster and Berat, as well as the Blue Eye Springs and the bustling town of Saranda. Albania is set to become the next bucket-list destination of Europe. With its neighbouring countries’ exceptional success in tourism and increase in popularity amongst travellers, it is the perfect time for Kep Merli to unveil the beauties of this hidden gem. Be one of the first to experience Albania like never before. kepmerli.com

KEP MERLI

P L E A S U R E . . .TA K E N S E R I O U S LY

TEL: +355697075779

WWW.KEP MERLI.COM

INFO@KEP MERLI.COM

PROPERTY

A Proper Job We talk to Philip Pertoldi, CEO of Abels, one of Britain’s most esteemed removals services, about the formula that has made the firm so formidable

‘Getting the job done right the first time’ is the unofficial motto for Abels, CEO Philip Pertoldi declares. Its official slogan, though, is ‘The Art of Moving’; a maxim it has been keeping to since 1958, when its founder, Noel Abel, used a five tonne 1948 Morris Commercial van to move a customer’s possessions from A to B. Noel was an auctioneer by trade. “This meant his word was his bond,” Philip explains. The culture he enshrined in the company was one of doing it “right the first time”. This twinned with a strong work-ethic rooted in Norfolk allowed Noel to build a strong team around him. “This was very important,” Philip observes. “Anybody can hire a fleet of vans or a warehouse but the difference with us is the people we employ.” It must be quite a task with more than 80 staff on the books but somehow Abels not only manages it, but flourishes. Its Royal Warrant is the result of doing regular work for the Royal household. “The first work we did for them was in 1981; seven years later we acquired the Warrant.” Working from its East Anglian base, the firm was well positioned to benefit from an increased amount of activity between South East England and the continent. Soon contracts with both the armed forces and an account called ‘Crown Suppliers’ followed. The latter ensured that Abels was the go-to removals company for almost every government-owned facility from 10 Downing Street downwards. Just as the market started to work against Abels – “with prices plunging and costs rocketing” - the company was approached by M&S to deliver new furniture to the home. Putting many resources into this side of the business “meant we quickly became the number one in the UK for a home delivery service”, Philip explains. It’s a hard position to maintain. One rite of passage to keep staff standards high is a training procedure that takes place in a house built and furnished in the Abels warehouse. This guarantees that “we train on our own belongings and not our customers”, Philip notes. He seems serious when talking about the job being a vocation. “We’ve always taken on youngsters and trained them through on an apprenticeship basis; it’s all about having the right attitude,” he says. This hard-won expertise translates well not only in the UK but internationally too. In fact the majority of its work (65 per cent) is for clients in Europe or overseas. “The remaining 35 per cent is being expanded with hotel projects and the delivery of new furnishings to show homes.” This omnipresence means a lot of its business is still generated by word-of-mouth. “We have a lot of traditional customers, especially people who say: ‘we remember your cornflower blue vans when you moved me – I was part of the Forces’.” Abels builds on this general knowledge by adding value in several areas, perhaps one of the most obvious of which is the concierge service. “Once upon a time we asked: ‘Could we have done more for you?’ And they always answered that we were brilliant,” Philip recalls. “But the quality manager changed the question to: ‘Was there anything you wished someone else had done for you?’ The feedback meant we decided to alter the full relocation service to offer cleaning, a maid, a handyman and more, to enhance the moving experience for clients.” abels.co.uk

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UK RESIDENTIAL, EUROPEAN & INTERNATIONAL REMOVALS

Import, Export & Storage by Air, Road & Sea

Abels.

Seen in all the prime locations.

• UK Residential Removals • Worldwide Relocations • Weekly European Removals • Storage Services • Car Transportation & Storage • Office & Commercial Moving • Antiques, Fine Art Packing, Storing & Moving Telephone: 020 3773 5796 E-Mail: enquiries@abels.co.uk www.abels.co.uk

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Bramerton Street, Chelsea, SW3

A superb white stucco fronted three bedroom house ideally situated on a particularly quiet and leafy street off the Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Road.

Chelsea 020 7225 3866 chelsea@struttandparker.com

ÂŁ3,300,000 Freehold

Rosaville Road, Fulham, SW6

An excellent five bedroom house on this prime road within the area known locally as ‘The Villes’.

Fulham 020 7731 7100 fulham@struttandparker.com

£1,750,000 Freehold

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Clunie House, Hans Place, SW1X

An exemplary three bedroom apartment in a portered building (with lift) positioned on a wellknown Knightsbridge garden Square, with the benefit of private parking.

Knightsbridge 020 7235 9959 knightsbridge@struttandparker.com

ÂŁ2,250,000 Leasehold

Palace Gate, Kensington, W8

An outstanding and beautifully presented three bedroom flat, occupying approximately 2,209 sq ft, on the first and second floors of an attractive stucco fronted house.

ÂŁ4,975,000 Share of Freehold

Kensington 020 7938 3666 kensington@struttandparker.com

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Exclusive estate, Cannes, South of France

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Beautiful and exceptional 5 bedroom house situated in the heart of the residential area of Super Cannes.â&#x20AC;?

Price on Application

This exquisite property boasts breathtaking 180Â° sea views over the bay of Cap dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Antibes and across to the mountains of Italy. It is set in approx. 9,000 sq.m of perfectly landscaped ground. There is also an additional guest house with 2 bedrooms.

Lulu Egerton 020 7225 3866 lulu.egerton@struttandparker.com

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Connaught Place, Hyde Park, W2

â&#x20AC;&#x153;A spectacular lateral five bedroom apartment with direct lift access and stunning views overlooking Hyde Park.â&#x20AC;?

ÂŁ16,000,000 Leasehold

An outstanding and beautifully presented lateral apartment, occupying almost 5,500 sqft of the entire third floor of this handsome, Grade II listed, stucco-fronted, period building.

Notting Hill 020 7221 1111 nottinghill@struttandparker.com

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