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CONTENTS 16

A Cinderella Story

Big Fish

British fashion designer Maria Grachvogel discusses technology within fashion, Magic Pants and Victoria Beckham

Olivia Sharpe learns how to stay afloat in one of the most competitive industries from shoe designer Sophia Webster

Sole Man

Salt of the Earth

Lauren Romano chats to legendary showman Manolo Blahnik ahead of the launch of his Burlington Arcade store

Elizabeth Saltzman on working at Vogue in the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;90s, dressing Gwyneth Paltrow and how to survive London Fashion Week

New Dimension

The Spice of Life

From jackets that take photographs to email-notifying necklaces, Deborah Cicurel discovers the latest fashion game changers

Clare Vooght explores her daring side in south-west China, sampling Sichuan chillies and performing tai chi

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On the Cover... Ever since Cinderella donned her glass slippers, it seems to have become mandatory for ladies’ high fashion to be excruciatingly painful. From bone-crushing corsets to bunion-inducing high heels, designers throughout the centuries have been constantly inventing new torture devices that are cleverly disguised under the label of ‘couture’. British designer Maria Grachvogel, however, has never understood why the word ‘comfortable’ is considered taboo in the world of high fashion. Throughout her long career, which spans more than 20 years, she has made it her mission to produce beautifully cut clothing that fit the female form effortlessly.

march 2016 s issue 049 Acting Editor Olivia Sharpe Contributing Editors Richard Brown Hannah Lemon Ellen Millard Editorial Assistant Natasha Levy Senior Designer Grace Linn Brand Consistency Laddawan Juhong

Cover image: courtesy of Maria Grachvogel, photography: Yuval Hen, yuvalhen.co.uk

50 Brian Stonehouse

58 S/S16 Trend Report

64 Spring to Action

Production Hugo Wheatley Danny Lesar Alice Ford Jamie Steele Client Relationship Director Friday Dalrymple Executive Director Sophie Roberts General Manager Fiona Fenwick Managing Director Eren Ellwood

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From the EDITOR “Beautifully cut clothes can be transformative and ultimately what I’ve learnt after many years is that how you feel affects how you look. I have amazing-looking women who try on my dresses and even when they look incredible, their whole body language says, ‘I’m uncomfortable’. That’s when I know it’s not the dress for them.” Over the centuries, women have had an almost masochistic relationship with fashion, crippling their bodies in bone-crushing corsets and destroying their feet in killer high heels, all in the name of ‘no pain no gain’. However, British designer Maria Grachvogel has long been championing the need for comfort in high fashion and her celebrated pieces have become renowned for their flattering, silhouette-altering powers. The designer of this issue’s front cover discusses her lengthy career, from being discovered by Isabella Blow to casting Victoria Beckham in one of her most memorable catwalk shows (p.16). Also kicking off the biannual fashion issue are two celebrated shoe designers: they may be at opposite ends of their career, but this year marks a pivotal stepping stone for the pair of them. Lauren Romano speaks to legendary showman Manolo Blahnik as the flamboyant septuagenarian opens his second London boutique after 44 years (p.20), while I chat to new-generation designer Sophia Webster as she too puts her best foot forward and prepares to launch her first ever flagship store in Mayfair (p.28). As we toe the line between the old and the new in the world of fashion, Deborah Cicurel shines a spotlight on five brands that are revolutionising the industry with remarkable technological innovations and significant advances in sustainability (p.24). Meanwhile, Rosalyn Wikeley meets old-timer Elizabeth Saltzman – celebrated stylist and contributing editor to Vanity Fair – who shares her experiences of working at Vogue and dressing Gwyneth Paltrow on page 60. Last but not least, Clare Vooght swaps the chaos of London Fashion Week for the rich and varied culture of south-west China on page 90, while three intrepid travellers stay closer to home and embark on a trip around Italy, discovering some of the country’s lesser-known attractions (p.84).

Acting Editor

Olivia Sharpe

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CinderellaStory Having been in the industry for more than two decades, Maria Grachvogel believes it is high time she returned to her creative roots. Having chosen to opt out of London Fashion Week this year, the designer still has many more tricks up her sleeve, Olivia Sharpe discovers

Photography: Yuval Hen

INTERVIEW

Photography: Dan Stevens

ver since Cinderella donned her glass slippers, it seems to have become mandatory for ladies’ high fashion to be excruciatingly painful. From bone-crushing corsets to bunioninducing high heels, designers throughout the centuries have been constantly inventing new torture devices that are cleverly disguised under the label of ‘couture’. British designer Maria Grachvogel, however, has never understood why the word ‘comfortable’ is considered taboo in the world of high fashion. Throughout her long career which spans more than 20 years, she has made it her mission to produce beautifully cut clothing that fit the female form effortlessly. When I meet Maria in her Chelsea boutique, she is dressed in a loose-fitting navy top and matching trousers with a sheepskin collar draped around her shoulders – a walking advertisement for her brand, which advocates that one need never sacrifice style or comfort, and very much a woman after my own heart. While I secretly long to be able to pull off princess-like gowns, my naturally understated and casual style invariably gravitates towards a pair of trousers or a jumpsuit over a figure-hugging dress. Although her relaxed, slightly androgynous fashion sense might suggest otherwise, Maria had a “Cinderella love affair with clothes” growing up that made her want to be a designer. “I was a bit of a tomboy, but I had this constant fantasy going on in my head that I was a princess,” she explains. “My aunt was a tailor and I idolised her because she was so glamorous.” When she was as young as eight, Maria would spend hours poring over old copies of Vogue and fantasising

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about the glamour of 20th century fashion. She was particularly fascinated by the craftsmanship involved and one particular image that has stuck in her mind all these years was of a vintage Dior corset. “You could see all of the amazing hand-stitching and boning and I just remember wondering, ‘How did they do that?’” Like Alexander McQueen before her, it is as though Maria was born with a pair of scissors in her hands. “I knew immediately how to cut a pattern. It all made sense to me, the logic of how fabric sculpts around the body.” As a teenager, Maria would practise making bias-cut dresses for herself as well as her school friends for extra pocket money. She admits to having been very body conscious at the time. “I think many of us go through that period when we think we’re fat even though looking back, I was actually a rake.” It was because of this that Maria became fascinated by the way in which certain clothes could hide a multitude of sins. “Beautifully cut clothes can be transformative and ultimately what I’ve learnt is that how you feel affects how you look.” Her best-selling Magic Pants – trousers that will miraculously give you a smaller waist and bum without shedding a pound – came about due to her constant struggle to find trousers that flattered her tall, lean frame. At 14, the designer created her first collection, which she showcased at the London Fashion Week’s designer exhibition. Well aware that she needed to raise funds in order to support her label, she left college and became the youngest person to pass the London stockbroking exams at 17. In 1991 at the age of 21, she launched her company. The designer has a different approach to much of the rest of the industry, shifting away from trends and instead focusing on producing timeless, staple pieces. For Maria, it is the difference between “you look great in that dress” and “wow – what a great dress”. As a result, she has found that her female clients are naturally confident women who have a strong sense of their own style and judging from her loyal following which includes Angelina Jolie, Emma Thompson and Victoria Beckham, this is very apparent. Victoria Beckham has gone through a remarkable style transformation over the years and has achieved unprecedented success with her label. The former Spice Girl was one of Maria’s earliest fans and in 2000 she made a surprise catwalk appearance in her show. Did Maria predict then that Victoria would become such an influential figure in fashion? “She always had an amazing sense of style and we used to have really great conversations about clothes,” she answers. “I dressed her all through her pregnancy. She was always her own best stylist.” While Maria has always enjoyed the thrill of London Fashion Week, she had a break for eight years between 2002 and 2010, and has now been absent again for the past two years. “It comes from that whole sense of wanting

“Beautifully cut clothes can be transformative and what I’ve learnt is how you feel affects how you look”

This page: Icon jumpsuit, the Bespoke collection, photography: Yuval Hen Opposite page: Maria Grachvogel boutique, photography: Paul Raeside; Catwalk look, image courtesy of: catwalking.com; Dali dress, photography: Simon Harris; Juno Peony print Couture dress, the Bespoke collection, image courtesy of: catwalking.com

INTERVIEW

to disconnect, I think. I keep threatening to go back, but I haven’t done it yet.” Maria has a very forward-thinking approach to technology within fashion and even pioneered her own method of digitally printing garments, known as Artwork Print. However, she finds that it can also limit creativity. “The one thing I would say about the relationship between digital and fashion is that the immediacy of everything is killing a lot of creativity. Creativity takes time and sometimes you need to just sit and think.” Before motherhood, she would use the weekends to switch off, but with her five-year-old son, this is no longer possible so she is working towards taking a step back from the managerial side and simply being “the creator”. The designer has often found that her best ideas have come about “organically” and indeed, much of her good fortune seems to be put down to the old ‘right place, right time’ scenario. Her first ever show was styled by Isabella Blow, but to this day she has no idea exactly how she discovered her. “It was at the time when I was selling clothes to private customers from home and somehow some samples ended up at Vogue. I don’t really know how because it was just me at the time.” Maria still remembers the first phone conversation she had with the stylist, who rang her up and said in her characteristically well-spoken accent: “Hello. I am Isabella Blow. Who are you?” A natural talentspotter, Blow was one of the first to truly understand what the designer was trying to do, even saying to her, “You need real women in your clothes.”

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Another fateful moment happened a few years later at Claridge’s when, after a boozy night drinking Champagne, she convinced the barman to let her make her own cocktail. You can still order a ‘Maria Grachvogel’ (her version of a Caipirinha) at the hotel. The designer has remained in Chelsea throughout her career, her first showroom opening on Sloane Street in 2001. She stayed here for ten years before relocating to Culford Gardens. The Victorian townhouse is light and modern, and has been branded with the designer’s artwork print on the walls and furniture (suggesting that lifestyle might become a product category in the future). This year technically marks the company’s 25th anniversary. And yet, the designer remarks how it is almost impossible to give a precise launch date (having been designing since she was eight), but if she had to, it would be 1994 when she launched her first complete collection. Maria often gets requests from clients to remake old pieces and if she can, she will. On one memorable occasion, she was asked to mend a dress that had been half-gnawed by a mouse. “I love that my clients find my pieces so precious,” she jokes. Although there are sadly some processes she can no longer replicate, such as her early devoré pieces, if there’s anything that I’ve learnt it’s that nobody solves a problem quite like Maria. 18 Culford Gardens, SW3; mariagrachvogel.com

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SOLE MAN Manolo Blahnik puts his best magenta-slippered foot forward to celebrate the opening of his new London store â&#x20AC;&#x201C; his first in 44 years. He tells Lauren Romano why he wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be quitting his day job anytime soon

INTERVIEW

Photography: ©Piers Calvert

anolo Blahnik knows how to make an entrance. He emerges from his new Burlington Arcade store dressed in a double-breasted suit, the Pantone shade of which might best be described as Parma Violet purple, accessorised with round tortoiseshell glasses, polka dot bow tie, light lilac socks and loafers in shocking pink. He flicks a cashmere scarf over his shoulder with a toss of the head (‘Mr Blahnik’ has been under the weather, his PR team tells me) and begins to embrace those assembled outside. Rather than a roll call of young, leggy models recruited for the occasion, the Blahnik entourage includes Vogue’s Suzy Menkes, a radiant Yasmin Le Bon in neon yellow-trimmed stilettos and the eminent classicist Mary Beard. The designer and Ms Beard (Mr Blahnik has the habit of referring to people by their titles) have spent many a happy hour together collating all the Greek words for shoe (there are more than 82, I learn). Ms Beard even contributed to Manolo

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Blahnik: Fleeting Gestures and Obsessions – an illustrated tome documenting his life’s work so far – that was released last summer. I say so far. At the age of 73, the Burlington Arcade store is Blahnik’s first UK standalone in 44 years. He’s in a jovial mood as he saunters past the plinths that have been temporarily installed in the arcade itself, topped with domed conical glasses, under which sit shoes for examination. But despite his flamboyant attire, Blahnik is not the septuagenarian showman you might expect. His eccentricity is lightly worn, and while far from being taciturn – on the contrary, he is delightfully blunt and meanders off topic regularly – he is also humble, even a little bashful at all the attention. Blahnik opened his first boutique in Old Church Street, Chelsea, in 1973 when the likes of Marianne Faithfull, Bianca Jagger, Charlotte Rampling, Lauren Bacall and David Bowie would buzz for admittance. “I have been looking for the right place for a while,” he admits with a slight shrug when quizzed about why it took him so long to find a location for his second UK premises. “Besides, I have always loved this magical place. All these shops with their beautiful cashmere. I love the tradition and history. I remember falling completely for the arcade the very first time I visited London.” Designed by Jino Murad, a former interior designer for Harrods, the double-fronted premises are accessorised with silk lamps, ottomans in aquamarine, violet and mustard yellow, and Corinthian-style pillars. Monochrome-striped stilettos, tangerine-toned cut-out heels and rainbow-hued sandals from the S/S16 collection share the brass plinths with classic pieces, while upstairs sits a private room where orders for customised items can be taken. Despite being in the business for more than four decades, Blahnik still does things the way he always has. He visits the factories in Italy regularly to make the prototypes – “it’s probably my favourite time of the year” – and always keeps a notebook at arm’s reach to sketch his bright freehand designs at a moment’s notice. Blahnik’s obsession with shoes (his Bath townhouse is reportedly home to 30,000 pairs, since he keeps every single one of his designs) began during childhood. He grew up in Santa Cruz de la Palma in the Canary Islands where his mother’s family owned a banana plantation. “I remember being obsessed with my nanny’s espadrilles when I was a small child. I used to play with my dogs and little lizards that we had in the garden and I’d make shoes for them out of candy wrappers,” he chuckles. He reminisces that his bedtime stories consisted of

Blahnik opened his first boutique in Old Church Street, Chelsea, in 1973

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Enid Blyton and Charles Dickens and his Czech father was a Winston Churchill-loving Anglophile, so it was only a matter of time before he ended up in the British capital. Once here, a chance encounter with fashion editor Diana Vreeland persuaded him to focus on footwear instead of costume and set design, which he had studied at the École du Louvre in Paris. “I will always be grateful for Mrs Vreeland’s advice and support,” he adds, humbly. “She has

“I like to have the freedom to do what really inspires me. That is the beauty of my job” done great things for this industry and changed the way fashion was perceived. She was a visionary.” Blahnik is dismissive of trends – surprising given that the industry holds him in such esteem. “I like to have the freedom to do what really inspires me. That is the beauty of my job.” His inspiration is more likely to come from a book, his extensive film archive, or women such as Uma Thurman, creative consultant Amanda Harlech and Spanish actress Ángela Molina. “They all have something unique. They are elegant and they carry themselves in an exceptional way.” As talk turns to the past, it’s hard to ignore the brand’s most obvious moment in the spotlight. ‘Manolos’ were cemented in the public consciousness by a certain Carrie

INTERVIEW

Bradshaw, who was rarely seen out of Blahnik’s stilettos in the hit American TV sitcom, Sex and the City – something he flits away with a smile and an “of course, I’m very grateful” response. His longevity in the industry, he believes, is down to his universal appeal. “I am very lucky because I can still say the Manolo Blahnik woman is every woman. We have new customers that save up to buy their first pair of shoes for their wedding, or young girls that have seen their mothers wearing the shoes. And of course we still have the beautiful women who have been buying shoes every season for 40 years. I like to think, no matter their age, they will find something they like.” The seventies will always be rose-tinted for Blahnik. His big break came in 1972 when Chelsea-based fashion designer Ossie Clark asked him to design the footwear for his catwalk. He made the shoes with rubber heels without using steel to reinforce them, which meant they were precarious to walk in. Thankfully, the fashion editors took the teetering models to be a deliberate move and he got away with it – just – and soon the likes of Jean Muir, Zandra Rhodes and John Galliano were banging on his door. Near-twisted ankles aren’t part of the equation now. “Perfect balance, perfect proportion” is essential for Blahnik. Such is his fastidiousness that I can well imagine him trying on the designs in the factory. He insists that it’s actually the comfort factor that sets his heels apart from towering stilettos nobody can walk in, or, heaven forbid, “detestable platforms”. (These are only OK if you’re wearing a long dress so you can’t see them.) “Feeling comfortable” is also a personal

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mission for Blahnik. You won’t catch him eyeing up the crab doughnuts at Chiltern Firehouse – or “that Fire place” as he refers to it (and its supposedly infernal temperatures). His haunts include Anderson & Sheppard for suits, The Wolseley for tea, or Bibendum for lunch (not dinner, he might fall asleep). Speaking of sleep, he rarely gets more than five hours a night. “I never relax!” he exclaims. “I’m always working, even on the weekend. I can’t switch off. I am inspired by so many different things or situations that I will need to stop what I’m doing and sketch my ideas. Without hard work you see no results. You must believe in what you do,

“I’m very lucky because I can still say the Manolo Blahnik woman is every woman” put all your passion into it. If you don’t believe in it, no-one else will. “Who knows what the year ahead will bring? I don’t even know myself. I am always surprised how many things happen in one year without even planning it,” he concludes, matterof-factly. Retirement, for now at least, is clearly a dirty word so I don’t dare broach the subject. Mr Blahnik is still the life and sole (sorry) of his empire and no doubt he’ll be striding ahead, one shocking pink loafer in front of the other, for some time to come. 32-33 Burlington Arcade, 51 Piccadilly, W1J manoloblahnik.com

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Dimension

New

Deborah Cicurel discovers the next generation of fashion designers bringing new meaning to the word innovation with remarkable inventions

ashion design has always needed to innovate, to evolve, to stay relevant, but never so much as today, in our techobsessed, environmentally precarious, constantly distracted times. But now the next generation of brave new designers is stepping up to the challenge, and creating fresh, unique brands that will not only change our wardrobes – they could even change the world. From necklaces that notify you when you receive emails to jackets that take photographs of your daily journey and headpieces that gauge your mood: technical invention has never been so exciting for the fashion world. “Innovation has always been important for the fashion industry and in an era when designers are facing more pressure than ever, when traditional fashion retailers are having to adapt to a smarter consumer, it is clear that those designers and brands that fail to innovate will simply disappear,” says Matthew Drinkwater, head of the Fashion Innovation Agency at the London College of Fashion. “There is a growing use of virtual and augmented realities

both in the creation and showcasing of fashion – and I just love the thought of being able to change the outfits of the people around me with the flick of a finger if they are not up to scratch.” As designers vie to be the most relevant and novel in the market, here are five fashion brands that are really shaking up the industry.

The Unseen Exciting, fresh and thoroughly rooted in scientific discovery, The Unseen uses thermochromism in accessories and clothing to produce original and special pieces, blending chemical matter into fashionable materials. Its passionate founder, Lauren Bowker, studied chemistry as well as textiles, so she knows her science and uses it to create magical designs that illuminate otherwise invisible phenomena – hence the name, The Unseen. From backpacks that change colour depending on the environment around them to headpieces fashioned from black spinel gemstones that adapt to the wearer’s brain energy levels, Bowker is constantly exploring to see if the technology she pioneers can be used to enable communication with those who are unable to do so by

Photography: Max Oppenheim

FEATURE

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Photography: Michael Donald, S/S16 collection, Chloe Haywood London

vintage fairs and treasures found in old attics, Haywood believes any item can be turned into a beautiful, one-off piece. “Clients love the fact that I use sustainable elements in my designs. The wearer is guaranteed something unique and timeless, which is very important in occasion hats.”

Ada + Nik

any other means. “Our vision is to create a captivating world through exploring and illuminating the unseen realms around us,” says Bowker. “We bring exquisite couture, luxury articles and opulent materials to those searching for special pieces and unique experiences.” The simple designs are classic and easy to wear – but their touch of scientifically approved magic brings a whole new dimension to each piece.

Dreamt up by two London-based designers – Alexander McQueen alumnus Ada Zanditon and creative Nik Thakkar (LVMH, Jean Paul Gaultier) – over dinner in Kensington, menswear brand Ada + Nik is only three years old, but is already stocked in Harrods and several boutiques worldwide. Typified by bold, timeless silhouettes, the brand fuses modern design with technological innovation, incorporating sustainable and intelligent high-tech features within their pieces. “We always understand the importance of aesthetic and personal style, but have also created wearable technology pieces, such as the camera-enabled biker jacket that allows you to document your day without losing the first-hand experience,” Thakkar explains in reference to the ‘Narrative Jacket’ they created. The jacket takes two photos a minute as you go about daily life and sends images straight to a corresponding app so that they can be easily shared. “As futurists, we’ve always wanted to create a product that enhances the physical being,” Thakkar adds. “The more of this we can achieve, the more we can enhance the strength and power of human beings. Our aesthetic is something that can go from day to night, break down the seasonal boundaries and confines of fashion and also be worn in five, 10 or 100 years’ time without losing its appeal.”

Chloë Haywood London One challenge faced by sustainable brands is getting the balance right between being environmentally-friendly and fashion-forward without looking too ‘eco’. Chloë Haywood started her eponymous home-grown millinery business after being invited to five weddings in one year and not being able to find a suitably stylish hat. Haywood’s designs incorporate upcycled, unusual materials such as plastic punnets, fish skin, plastic bottles and skateboards, and the business is run from the garden of her house, where her husband, two young sons and dog Alfie also live. “My aim is to make the hats look stunning rather than eco, so I like to use colour and pizzazz,” Haywood says. “I’m now 40 and am still playing with the materials I find and discovering new ones. I have a huge passion for sustainability and when not upcycling materials, I’m discovering new and exciting eco fabrics which I can use in my designs.” Gathering inspiration from junk shops,

Photography: Fiona Garden (make-up: Ann-Marie Lawson)

FEATURE

elevate rather than detract from our ability to be human.” The collection is available in store at Browns Fashion.

Unmade Pioneering fashion brand Unmade solves the common issue of never being able to find knitwear that’s quite right for you – by allowing you to design clothing from scratch and print it on demand. Founded by a young trio of designers who met while studying at the Royal College of Art in Kensington, the business aims to combine textiles and technology to combat the knitwear industry’s ubiquitous one-size-fits-all attitude – and to create something unique and special for each shopper through its bold patterns and distinct yarns. “We give clients more choice and involvement in what we make and we do that in a way that is fun and different,” says co-founder Ben Alun-Jones. “The end result is a high-quality piece to treasure forever and to know you had a part in creating.” The brand also prides itself on being environmentally conscious and locally produced, with every single item being

Vinaya In our tech-obsessed times, it can seem nigh-on impossible to ever ignore the buzzing of our phones – but jewellery brand Vinaya uses cutting-edge micro-electronics to help consumers switch off while looking stylish at the same time. Founded by Kate Unsworth, the brand looks to put a stop – or at least pause – to the everpervasive problem of tech addiction, after her own experience of working as a management consultant and being constantly ‘dialled in’: in her own words, only “partially there”. The brand helps consumers disconnect from technology through chic necklaces, rings and bracelets that vibrate as new phone notifications come in – but only when the wearer wants to be disturbed. For example, wearers can programme their rings to vibrate only when their boss emails, when a particular keyword is mentioned in a text or when a certain person calls. “Vinaya allows you to take a step away from your attention-seeking smartphone so that you can focus on real-life interactions and situations,” explains Unsworth. “The user doesn’t need to be a slave to their device when in social situations, but can rest assured that they’ll still be alerted if anything important happens. Somehow, at lightning speed, we’ve reached a point in society where it’s suddenly acceptable to exist in this distracted state. We’re not saying technology is bad – on the contrary, it’s amazing. But ultimately, it should

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“We have to come up with new solutions that can retain the beauty and expressiveness of fashion” made within the walls of Somerset House. “We’re a genuine alternative to massproduced fashion,’ Alun-Jones says. “Fashion is the second-most polluting industry in the world and there are frequently reports of human exploitation. Even if we aren’t creating new designs or products, we simply can’t carry on like this. We have to come up with new solutions that can retain the beauty and expressiveness of fashion, without sacrificing the environment.” The company was selected by Selfridges to be part of its Bright New Things 2016 campaign and the collection will be available in store until 27 March. seetheunseen.co.uk; chloehaywoodlondon. com; adaxnik. com; vinaya.com; unmade.com

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Big Fish Since launching her eponymous footwear brand in 2012, Sophia Websterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s original designs have been making quite a splash in the industry. With the arrival of her first flagship store on Mount Street this spring, Olivia Sharpe speaks to the British shoe designer about how to stay afloat in one of the most competitive businesses around

INTERVIEW

Photography: Charlotte Rutherford

think this was intended as a metaphor, it turns out it was completely literal: the live presentation saw washing machines, mermaid tails, life-size seashells and other ocean life swarm the set which had been designed by Shona Heath, who is famed for her collaborative work with photographer Tim Walker. Meanwhile, models sported vintage bathing suits and swimming caps to complement the designer’s underwater-themed shoe line. From vinyl mules with fish-detailing straps to coral-embellished laser-cut heels and aqua print platform wedges, it is arguably her most elaborate and accomplished collection to date. Often influenced by old films, musicians and favourite artists, on this occasion Sophia drew reference to the 1984 box office hit, Splash, about a man (Tom Hanks) falling in love with a mermaid (Daryl Hannah): “Think Daryl Hannah at David Hockney’s poolside in California,” she comments.

un is a word that can often be lost in the fashion industry. Few dare to show a bit of humour, perhaps for fear that they won’t be taken seriously, but that cannot be said for Sophia Webster. I have long been a fan of her whimsical collections because they have personality. They speak out (sometimes literally), as is the case with her new Speech Bubble handbags. Featuring witty catchphrases such as ‘Don’t be Jelly’ and ‘Beach Babe’, they dare to be different from the sea of colourless accessories that currently flood the market and are part of the designer’s first dedicated handbag collection launching this month. The British designer’s latest S/S16 collection has been inspired by a Mermaid Launderette. While one could initially

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Since launching her company, the 3O-year-old designer has been making powerful waves in the industry, winning the Condé Nast Footwear Designer of the Year award in 2012 and the British Fashion Council’s internationallyrecognised NEWGEN award for three seasons in a row. Charging full steam ahead, Sophia opened a pop-up store in the Burlington Arcade just a year later and ever since then, the industry has been waiting with bated breath for the announcement of her first standalone store and, fortunately, the wait is finally over. Sophia Webster’s new boutique will open on Mount Street this spring, joining industry titans Christian Louboutin, Oscar de la Renta and Céline. Sophia explains how she wanted the store to reflect “the same feminine sensibility as my shoes”. You can therefore expect lots of playful, fun-loving touches in the design, from the “beautiful pastel pink onyx running

“It has taken a lot of blood, sweat and tears to get to where we are now” throughout” to the “intricate flamingo detailing” on the cornices (the bird has become an iconic symbol of the brand, having arisen from the designer’s love of the bird’s unusual shade of pink). In spite of her tongue-in-cheek designs and youthful appearance (with her fresh-faced complexion, blonde tresses and short stature, she jokes how she hopes to always be remembered as “little, blonde and fearless”), you can be sure that Sophia takes her business very seriously. As shoe design is notoriously difficult to break into, Sophia was therefore fortunate to be talent-spotted at a young age by celebrated designer Nicholas Kirkwood while she was studying at the Royal College of Art. Following a two-year stint as his assistant, she took away some valuable truths, the most important of which has been, “Mistakes are your best lessons, but you have to learn fast.” Despite her company only being four years old, it seems much

INTERVIEW

older to her. “It actually doesn’t feel like an overnight success. It has taken a lot of blood, sweat and tears to get to where we are now. I think going into any project you cannot guarantee success, but I believed and hoped it would be.” The designer’s love of shoes dates back to when she was a girl and she still remembers the first pair that she was obsessed with: a pair of Patrick Cox jelly shoes that had a miniature Eiffel Tower inside the heel. While Sophia was naturally experimental with her choice of shoes, she confides to me that she was far more conservative when it came to her wardrobe, describing herself as “a bit of a tomboy” – a far cry from the flamboyant, feminine pieces she creates today. For Sophia, shoes can act as a window into a person’s personality, perhaps more so than other aspects of their dress. “I can always tell what someone is like based on their shoes. Personally, it completely depends on how I feel when I choose what I’m going to wear. Sometimes I’m a Riko high-top kind of girl, but other times I might wear a Chiara butterfly heel.” The designer has an entire room dedicated to her abundant shoe collection: “I honestly couldn’t tell you how many I own,” she shrugs. “I have even more in storage so that should give you an idea. I do biannual clear-outs and take a lot to charity shops in my area.” From a young age, Sophia has been a keen dancer and she and her sister Claudia would travel around the world competing. However, work and other commitments got in the way of this dream and just as well it did, as this is what led Sophia to discover her passion for drawing. “I stopped dancing to focus on my exams and that’s when I really got into art. As a teenager, I enrolled into the Royal College of Art and discovered I loved drawing shoes.”

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Sophia is part of a new pool of contemporary designers unafraid to experiment with bold creations

The designer has long been an admirer of Manolo Blahnik, who is well known for his artistic approach of sketching beautifully detailed illustrations before his shoes are crafted. “It has always fascinated me, the way different designers draw shoes and Manolo is by far the best. His illustrations are so full of life.” Like the majority of her peers, Sophia’s path into the footwear industry followed the traditional route, honing the traditional artisanal skills and technical processes of this time-honoured craft at the prestigious Cordwainers’ College (part of London College of Fashion) in east London. Previous alumni include Nicholas Kirkwood, Charlotte Olympia, Rupert Sanderson and Patrick Cox.

INTERVIEW

Although Sophia has remained true to traditional craftsmanship elements, she is also part of a new pool of contemporary designers unafraid to experiment with bold creations. The S/S14 collection saw the rise of the Butterfly collection, which notably featured the Evangeline heels and the Chiara sandals (which have since evolved into the brand’s iconic Angel Wing design). With the fashion world currently being in a very liberal-minded phase, women are no longer limited to wearing just heels or flats, but can choose from a sea of styles which they can then mix and match with different outfits, pairing a trainer with a formal dress or a high heel with ripped jeans. As a result, Sophia Webster’s designs not only appeal to young women, but to women of all ages. “I think all my female customers appreciate the feminine sensibility in the way I design and the special details. It may be a crystal-embellished heel on a black satin pump, or a handdrawn print on the lining of a bag.” And yet, while the company has a very diverse customer base, Sophia intimates that the women who wear her shoes must have a certain level of confidence, summing up her brand as “feminine, fearless and sassy”. The free-thinking designer has no hard and fast rules when it comes to what women should put on their feet, but her only pet peeves are “shoes that don’t fit properly or when there is a little toe sticking out of the side”. Sophia’s youthful, fun-loving spirit has undoubtedly been nurtured by the arrival of her daughter Bibi Blossom in 2014, who influenced her mini shoewear collection which launched last year after she found it nearly impossible to find shoes for her newborn. With the “relentless fashion calendar” being “unforgiving” when it comes to her spare time, Sophia therefore likes nothing better than switching off and spending time with her family. “My weekends are best spent going for long walks in Epping Forest and jumping in puddles with my little girl.” While only time will tell whether Sophia’s latest venture – her first standalone store – will sink or swim, given her current record I, for one, am certain that it will be the latter.

“My weekends are best spent going for long walks in Epping Forest and jumping in puddles with my little girl”

124 Mount Street, W1K, opening this spring, sophiawebster.com

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collection

True Colours A stroll down New Bond Street and you will not fail to spot the latest addition to this luxury watch and jewellery hub: De Grisogono’s newly opened store. Its colourful windows stand out from its competitors and will no doubt entice shoppers inside, mesmerised by the stunning display of pieces (some of which are exclusive to the London store). Unlike the Swiss brand’s previous boutiques, the new David Collins Studio-designed flagship has been divided into three rooms, mirroring the traditional aesthetic of an Italian house to tie in with founder Fawaz Gruosi’s Florentine heritage. Along with a dedicated watch area, there is a Grand Sala (or drawing room) that is reached via a vestibule and has been decorated with mid-century Italian furniture. 15a New Bond Street, W1S, degrisogono.com

Photography: Adrien Dirand

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COLLECTION

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JEWELLERY BY OLIVIA SHARPE

Romancing the Stone The story of Tiffany & Co’s now world-famous diamond engagement ring, the Tiffany Setting, begins with the American jeweller’s founder, Charles Lewis Tiffany, who set out in 1886 to create a ring that highlighted the beauty of brilliant-cut diamonds. 130 years and countless proposals and film appearances later, he certainly succeeded in his mission. Fittingly, Tiffany & Co. has chosen to mark this impressive milestone with a year-long celebration. This will involve a brand new campaign which, rather than relying on models or celebrities as endorsements, will instead feature the company’s skilled artisans who are responsible for the rings’ creation. 145 Sloane Street, SW1X; tiffany.co.uk

New Hue So fast-paced is the jewellery industry today that if you stand still for a second, you will almost certainly get left behind. This is something Pomellato understands only too well, as the Milanese jeweller never appears to rest in its constant pursuit to innovate its pieces. And nothing illustrates this better than the brand’s signature Nudo pendant collection, which has been reinvented once again for 2016 with a new rose gold chain to be worn with one of any six coloured gemstones. Nudo pendant with rose gold chain, £1,320 pomellato.com

Top of the Game

I Promise to Love You “She [Tracey Emin] been my friend for 30 years and she made me the ‘I promise to love you’ neon sign for my store in Beverly Hills. One day I said to her, ‘Let me have a go at seeing what I can come up with out of your work and our relationship’.” When K&C interviewed Stephen Webster last year, we were fortunate to be one of the first publications to see the designer’s collaborative collection with artist Tracey Emin, which has only now been released. Capturing the artist’s iconic neon works with the jeweller’s expert craftsmanship, Webster has created a range of pieces that use gold and diamonds to spell out Emin’s trademark handwriting, with declarations including ‘With You I Breathe’, ‘Love’ and ‘More Passion’. Figurative woodland creatures inspired by Emin’s hand-drawn animal sketches have also been brought to life as charms. Having been released in time for Valentine’s Day, it is a true testament of friendship. I Promise to Love You, £400-19,000 stephenwebster.com

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Before becoming the founder of one of the pinnacle French fashion houses, a young Christian Dior spent his childhood playing games in the gardens of his hometown of Granville. Jewellery designer Victoire de Castellane has once again chosen to capture this idyllic part of Christian Dior’s history in her latest collection, christened Granville. Made up of 12 unique pieces, each one tells the story of childish outdoor games with the vivid rainbow of coloured stones: green beryl, peridot, aquamarine, tanzanite, chrysoberyl, pink tourmaline and rubellite all play lead roles. Granville collection, POA; dior.com

Shake ItOff From her movable bangles to her Glam’Azone pieces, Valérie Messika has spent the past decade shaking up the diamond business with her brand’s edgy, rock ‘n’ roll aesthetic. As jewellery historian Vivienne Becker explores the company’s achievements in her new book, Olivia Sharpe speaks to the founder about her diamond legacy

This page: Ballerina of National Theatre in Belgrade, Dina Johnsen, dinajohnsen.com Opposite page: Swan cuff and earrings, Diamond Feathers collection

COLLECTION

alérie Messika has broken new ground in the diamond industry with her eponymous jewellery brand. At a time when diamonds were perceived as “unattainable and untouchable” (says Becker in her book), it was she who set about changing the industry’s perception and forging a new language for the diamond as something that is light, wearable, youthful and stylish. Eleven years later and Messika Joaillerie has done just that – renowned for its revolutionary and cutting-edge take on diamond design, it has successfully bridged the gap between the worlds of high jewellery and fashion. To say that diamonds are in Valérie’s DNA is an understatement. Her father, Andre Messika, is a well-known diamond dealer and Valérie spent her childhood playing with rare stones that he brought home. This is what led her to view diamonds in a different light: not as precious objects, but as something to enjoy and take pleasure in every day. However, she admits to having always been more interested in fashion – “My example was never jewellery, always fashion” – and has always greatly admired couturiers Yves Saint Laurent and Alaïa for their ability to blur the lines between masculine and feminine clothing, and create pieces that “sculpt the body”. It was while working at Chanel that the then 23-yearold first began unconsciously realising her vision for her brand. “It is one of the most powerful brands in the world and it was very interesting for me to see it from the inside. It was 1999 and I remember how I could sense Coco Chanel’s presence in the building. People referring to her and her heritage, and it was this that made me realise how important the DNA of a brand is. So when I launched my company, that was my first consideration.” Following this, Valérie went to work for her father, but soon discovered that she was not interested in the dealing side of things and knew her heart lay in design. “I realised fairly soon that the job was not really for me because it had quite an old-fashioned mentality,” she comments. “So after a few years I said to him, ‘Dad, if I stay with the business I have to do my own work because I feel that there are no in-between brands in jewellery and I would like this to change.” Valérie was determined to find some middle ground between the high jewellery houses on the Place Vendôme and inexpensive brands, and while initially dubious about her concept, Andre accepted his daughter’s proposal with the condition that diamonds remained at the heart of her company. To this day, Valérie has never gone against her word and this has undoubtedly paid off. “I think he was right for many reasons,” she explains. “I was born into a world

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of diamonds so they are my area of expertise. I think it’s very important for the consumer to understand that we are specialists in this subject because this is what makes us stand apart from other jewellers. It’s the same as fashion brands that are specialists in cashmere or knitwear, for instance. I think if I were to work with coloured gemstones, it would deviate from my DNA.” Typically, size is one of the most important factors when it comes to a diamond’s value. However, Valérie has never personally been drawn to massive rocks, having always preferred the tiny gems she was allowed to play with as a child. “Strangely, I found myself much more emotionally attached to the very small stones I would find buried in an envelope than a massive 15-carat rock,” she says, smiling. “To have something so small, precious and shiny in your hand is very special.” This is why the jeweller began experimenting with micro-pavé, creating her first ever piece which has now become signature to the brand: the Move bangle.

It was while working at Chanel that 23-yearold Valérie first began realising her vision for her brand

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The playful, daring design – a simple bracelet featuring three diamonds that slide effortlessly from side to side on a hidden rail – pushed boundaries in the way that it highlighted the potential versatility and transformability of diamond jewellery. “At the time I launched my brand, the state of mind among women in Paris was that you could only wear diamonds for special occasions or if it was your engagement ring. But I wanted to show them that diamond jewellery could be something cool, casual and modern that you could wear every day.” Although Valérie modestly says how she has never considered herself “a designer”, she believes she has an innate ability to sense what women today want to wear and judging from her own modern sense of style, you can well believe it. One of the jeweller’s prized possessions in her wardrobe is a Ralph Lauren leather jacket which can be dressed up or down depending on her mood – “I can pair it with something more relaxed or I can dress it up to make it look more sophisticated” – along with her abundant collection of shoes (how many pairs this includes she refuses to tell me for fear of her husband’s reaction). Valérie’s impeccable taste is further illustrated in her Paris atelier, which truly stands apart from traditional jewellery workshops with its beautifully light, airy and contemporary design. And yet, she insists that she would never try to impart her own style onto other women as what she loves most about Messika is that it has such universal appeal. “When I visit my shop, I see a lot of women walking in with their mums and walking out with

This page, clockwise from top: Messika High Jewellery atelier in Paris, ©Eugénie Martinez; Skinny bracelet in white gold and diamonds; Rihanna, Daily Front Row Awards, 2015, photography: Steve Granitz/Getty Images Opposite page, from top: Move bangle; Move rings; Swan necklace, Diamond Feathers collection

COLLECTION

different pieces because at Messika there are so many different styles and price brackets. And each piece reveals something about your own personal style.” Current fans of the brand include Beyoncé, Rihanna and Cara Delevingne, highlighting that the women who covet Messika share a unique, confident and individual sense of style. The inspiration for another of the house’s best-selling designs, Skinny, came from Valérie having envisaged a “diamond tattoo” bracelet, whereby gems look as though they have been traced onto the skin. The ergonomic and tactile design was inspired by the red Kabbalah bracelet that was all the rage in the ‘90s thanks to Madonna. “It’s almost like an elastic of diamonds. It looks very comfortable because it fits every width of wrist.” With its flexibility, fashion-forwardness and fragility, Skinny, like Move, perfectly captures the spirit of Messika. In the Paris atelier, you will find moodboards with cutout pictures of runway shows, architecture, accessories and ballerinas, as Valérie has often found inspiration in dance and movement for her body-conscious pieces. For the tenth-

Valérie isn’t opposed to branching out into other product categories and hints that a watch collection might be on the horizon anniversary high jewellery collection unveiled at last year’s Baselworld, pieces drew reference to the natural grace of a swan. The jeweller isn’t opposed to branching out into other product categories and hints that a watch collection might be on the horizon, but for the moment she feels that the brand is still very young and needs time to mature. She hopes one day to pass on her company to her two daughters, one of whom, as fate would have it, was born on the same day as the opening of her first store. For the time being, however, the most important thing for Valérie is to remain true to herself and to her roots: “I am very lucky because I have invested my heart and soul into my brand and I think even if my clients don’t know that, they can sense it. We don’t lie. The big lesson I’ve learnt is to follow my instincts because I’m not a very self-confident person, but the more I work in the business, the more confident I am becoming. Sometimes you just have a feeling and you can’t explain it, but you just have to go with it.” Whichever direction Messika moves in, I am certain that it will only be forward. Messika Joaillerie by Vivienne Becker, £16, available from the end of February, assouline.com

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WORLD

of WATCHES BY RICHARD BROWN

Inside SIHH 2016

Panthères et Colibri, POA, Cartier

Black Velvet, £44,600, Roger Dubuis

In the rarefied world of luxury watches, few brands are independently owned. Rolex, Patek Philippe and Breitling remain autonomous. The rest of the big boys are owned by huge parent companies. The manufacturers held by Kering, LVMH and Swatch Group choose to exhibit at the annual Baselworld show. The brands that are owned by Richemont have a fair all of their own. The Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie, or SIHH, takes place in Geneva every January. Amid the abrasive and the kitsch, the haughty and the heinous, these were the timepieces that most stood out in 2016. And yes, these prices are real. We checked.

Ladies’ High Jewellery Watches

Secret Heart, £64,000, Roger Dubuis

Dragon Mystérieux, POA, Cartier

Limelight Stella, £24,500, Piaget

Lady Arpels Ronde des Papillons, £89,500, Van Cleef & Arpels

When it came to ladies’ watches, the majority of efforts were geared towards women of a considerable spending power. Roger Dubuis welcomed guests with a red carpet reception and models dressed by Alexander McQueen and Maison Margiela. Its Velvet Diva collection was designed to turn heads, but it was the more understated creations within the range, particularly the Black Velvet (£44,600) and Secret Heart (£64,000), that shone the brightest. High jewellery timepieces stole the show at Cartier. The diamondscaled dragon on the brand’s Dragon Mystérieux (POA) wrapped itself around an hour and minute hand seemingly suspended in mid-air, while the Panthères et Colibri (POA) possessed a crown that, when pushed, ushered out a young panther from beneath its mother. Continuing its movement, the panther progresses to chase away a hummingbird, which flutters to the top of the dial where it acts as a power reserve indicator. Very smart indeed. Piaget’s timepieces were a more pared-back affair. The elegant, quartz-powered Limelight Gala (from £27,700) is set with 62 brilliant-cut diamonds and is available with either a white gold or pink gold Milanese strap. If mechanical means more to you, then the Limelight Stella (from £24,500) is equipped with Piaget’s in-house, automatic Caliber 584P movement. The watch’s moon phase indicator requires just one correction every 122 years. Choose the watch with or without diamonds. No one could deny the intrinsic beauty of Van Cleef & Arpels’ Lady Arpels Ronde des Papillons (£89,500). From under a collection of layered, mother-of-pearl clouds, three butterflies emerge to display the minutes of the hour. At the bottom of the dial, a white-gold swallow indicates the hours of the day. Delicate, delightful and, at 38mm in diameter, not too extravagant for delicate wrists, the watch offered wow-factor in spades.

Best in

Show Among the hordes of celebrity ambassadors patrolling the show, the following stars proved to be the real showstoppers

Time Travellers Whether it was GMTs, world-timers or pilot’s watches, time travel was the overriding theme of SIHH 2016. Perhaps most significant of all was IWC’s Timezoner Chronograph – the first watch to allow its wearer to set the time zone, as well as the date, simply by rotating its bezel. Purists may not appreciate its cluttered dial, but by offering clear legibility and a flyback chronograph function, the Timezoner, unlike most world-timers, could actually be used for the purpose it was intended. Other noteworthy world-timers included Montblanc’s 4810 Orbis Terrarum and Jaeger-LeCoultre’s Geophysic Universal Time. The former features a coloured dial below a transparent map that rotates so that you can distinguish night from day. JLC’s is the only world-timer to sport a deadbeat seconds hand, meaning that it ‘jumps’, rather than glides, between seconds. The result is a ‘truer’ representation of time.

Parmigiani Fleurier’s Tonda Chronor Anniversaire, £103,000

Possibly the best-looking watch of SIHH 2016, Parmigiani Fleurier’s Tonda Chronor Anniversaire celebrates the brand’s 20th anniversary by including the company’s first in-house integrated chronograph – a hugely impressive feat for such a small, albeit brilliant, manufacturer. Audemars Piguet’s

Geophysic Universal Time, £18,300, Jaeger-LeCoultre

Timezoner Chronograph, £9,450, IWC

4810 Orbis Terrarum, £4,500, Montblanc

Value for Money

Supersonnerie, CHF520,000

Thanks to three patents, eight years of research and 478 parts, AP has created the most clear-sounding minute repeater of all time. Not only does it chime with absolute purity, but it also houses a tourbillon chronograph. Ding ding. MB&F’s HM6 SV, £300,000

When you’d actually wear it, we don’t know, but when the HM6 SV comprises a flying tourbillon and 11 pieces of sapphire crystal – one of the most difficult materials with which to work – there’s no denying MB&F is the ultimate master of the avant-garde. Van Cleef & Arpels’s Midnight Nuit Lumineuse, POA

Spread across the handpainted, diamond-set dial of the Midnight Nuit Lumineuse is the Monoceros constellation, more commonly known as the Unicorn. Activate the pusher at 8 o’clock and six of the stars light up. Powered by an electro-mechanical movement, rather than a battery, it’s something that has never before been seen in watchmaking.

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For watches that won’t require remortgaging the house, look towards Montblanc, Cartier and IWC. Cartier’s Drive was something of a sensation. Bolstering what is already Richemont’s biggest brand, the completely new timepiece was a lesson in masculine watch design. Slim, elegant and perfectly proportioned, the vintage-inspired pieces feature a cushion-shaped case and come equipped with an in-house movement. Expect the Drive to fly off jewellers’ shelves when it’s released in June. Pilot Watch Mark Equally buzzworthy was IWC’s Pilot’s XVIII, £3,190, IWC Watch Mark XVIII, the latest in a long line of legendary pilot’s watches. A return to its roots, with its uncluttered dial and ergonomic design, the watch will find favour among IWC purists. The Mark XVIII is 40mm in size and you can opt for either a black or silver dial. Pilot or not, at £3,190, it’s a handsome investment for any wrist. Continuing to evolve under the stewardship of CEO Jérôme Lambert – previously Jaeger-LeCoultre and A. Lange & Söhne – Montblanc presented the Chronométrie Collection Twincounter Date. Powered by a brand new Montblanc movement, the 40mm piece has a 38-hour power reserve and is water-resistant to 30 metres. Smart, sharp and sporting a self-winding, in-house calibre, the watch is a snip at £2,155.

Chronométrie Collection Twincounter Date, £2,155, Montblanc

Pilot’s Watch Mark XVIII Edition ‘Le Petit Prince’, £3,190, IWC Drive de Cartier, £4,550, Cartier

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FEBRUARY 2016 • IssUE 40

To subscribe, please visit rwmg.co.uk/subscribe now

spotlight

STRIKE A POSE For our fashion issue it’s only right that we celebrate the creativity of an individual who dedicates himself to the dazzling world of style. Illustrator Eduard Erlikh works to capture the movement and vibrancy of catwalks on paper, using bright watercolours and line drawing to depict the dramatic form of models’ silhouettes and designer looks. Represented by international gallery LUMAS, Erlikh’s work reaches audiences in all corners of the world and has been commissioned by a host of renowned clients, including American Vogue and Tiffany & Co. uk.lumas.com

Gaultier Couture Military Suit with a Crown © Eduard Erlikh, uk.lumas.com

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Illustration: Mai Osawa

All for One

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& chelsea

The Blenheim charity and the Octavia Foundation have launched a project in the Royal Borough, Learn to Earn, which aims to support people with long-term drug and alcohol dependency. Awarded a grant of £262,223 by the Big Lottery Fund, the project wants to encourage those with a history of substance misuse into education, training and employment. By building social skills and confidence through engaging group work, the programme will break down the barriers that surface when sufferers try to find work. blenheimcdp.org.uk

Green Fingers The Royal Horticultural Society’s Botanical Art Show is back again. It is an event that focuses exclusively on capturing the beauty of plants in works of art. Expect to see a lot more than what’s in your back garden, with works depicting a wide range of horticultural specimens, from orchids and artichokes to rare and endangered wildflowers. The show will also give visitors the opportunity to meet artists and learn about their creative processes, as well as gain some tips from botanical art and illustration societies which will be on hand to talk about practical courses on offer. 26–27 February, The Royal Horticultural Society, Lindley Hall, Elverton Street, SW1P, rhs.org.uk

Patron Trevor Nelson

Carry a Tune Already a hotbed for musical maestros, the Notting Hill Arts Club has now opened its doors to students as part of its Academy of Music. The academy aims to educate, nurture and inspire Britain’s next generation of talent, developing individuals who could obtain the success of artists such as Adele, Sam Smith or Mark Ronson. On top of its original courses, from March 2016 the academy will offer many other educational opportunities including an MA in Future Music Industry and monthly masterclass sessions with high-profile guest speakers who will be discussing the biggest talking points of the music business. Notting Hill Arts Club, 21 Notting Hill Gate, W11, nottinghillartsclub.com

Hydrangea by Gael Sellwood

spotlight on the royal borough of Kensington & Chelsea: news, events, reviews & local interest stories

From left: Purity Ring – Another Eternity; David Gilmour – Rattle That Lock; Blur – The Magic Whip

Record and Play Now on display at the Belgraves Hotel are the results of the Best Art Vinyl 2015 awards, celebrating record cover art and giving recognition to the best design that has surfaced in modern music culture each year. Out of 50 nominated records, guitarist and singer David Gilmour’s album Rattle That Lock took first place, with the tough decision being made by a panel of music design experts, previous Best Art Vinyl winners and two Turner Prize nominees. All of the records on show embrace a range of creative disciplines, including photography, computer graphics and traditional fine art, making this visually stunning exhibition a delight of sight and sounds. Until 30 April, Belgraves Hotel, 20 Chesham Place, SW1X, artvinyl.com

Henning Kraggerud ©Tomaszewicz

Norwegian Nights

Sicily in the City The Mediterranean may seem far removed from the streets of the Royal Borough, but the South Kensington Club has brought this holiday experience to the heart of London. The private members’ club has exported 25 tonnes of seawater from the volcanic Aeolian Islands in Lipari, and transported it into its Watsu Pool. Other than making members feel as if they’re swimming on Italian shores, the water creates a uniquely dense and buoyant environment for bathers, softens skin and, when combined with the Aquatic Bodyworks therapy, eases muscles and joins.

As part of the ninth Zurich International Orchestra Series, the Oslo Philharmonic will take to the stage in Cadogan Hall. The orchestra’s chief conductor Vasily Petrenko and violin virtuoso Henning Kraggerud join forces to perform Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto, a musical work renowned for its technical difficulty. With the programme also including excerpts from Grieg’s Lyric Suite and Shostakovich’s Symphony No.5, the show looks set to present some of the finest artistry and skill in classical music. 10 March, From £18, Cadogan Hall, 5 Sloane Terrace, SW1X, cadoganhall.com

South Kensington Club, 38–42 Harrington Road, SW7, southkensingtonclub.com

covering kensington, chelsea, knightsbridge, holland park & notting hill

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From left: Venus Dress Look 15 Dolce & Gabbana, Fashion Show in Milan, Italy, 1993, ©catwalking.com; La Ghirlandata, 1873, by Dante Gabriel Rossetti ©Guildhall Art Gallery, 2015. Photo Scala Florence Heritage Images; Portrait of a Young Man c.1490-5 by Sandro Botticelli. Image courtsesy of the National Gallery of Art Washington; Venus after Botticelli, 2008, by Xin Yin Guillaume Duhamel. Private collection courtesy Duhamel Fine Art Paris

Botticelli as Muse The V&A’s new major exhibition Botticelli Reimagined, the largest Sandro Botticelli exhibition in Britain since 1930, explores the legacy of the great Early Renaissance painter. The show will include everything from paintings and sculpture to fashion and tapestries to illustrate how artists across the centuries have been inspired by the Italian and his visual aesthetic. Alongside 50 original works, expect to see pieces from other artists such as William Morris, René Magritte and Andy Warhol, who in their respective styles have reinterpreted Botticelli’s vision. 5 March–3 July, V&A, Cromwell Road, SW7, vam.ac.uk

Art with Heart London lettings and estate agent Chestertons has organised a creative workshop and fundraising auction in aid of homeless charity St Mungo’s at the Royal Academy of Arts in Piccadilly. Back in January, Chestertons, which is a premier supporter of the Royal Academy, arranged a tutored session for around 25 of the people St Mungo’s helps and has now put 11 of their pieces up for auction, with all profits to go to the charity. The sale was launched at Burlington House alongside a behind-closed-doors viewing of Painting the Modern Garden: From Monet to Matisse. Art lovers on the lookout for a vibrant original daubing to call their own at a fraction of the cost of a Monet masterpiece can bid now. Until 6pm, 1 March, allintheloop.net/app/chestertons/auction

Group VI, No 1. Evolution, 1908; Oil on canvas; Courtesy of: Stiftelsen Hilma af Klints Verk

A Different Vision Gain an insight into the invisible at the Serpentine’s spring exhibition, Hilma af Klint: Painting the Unseen. Focusing primarily on Hilma af Klint’s series The Paintings for the Temple, the show explores the artist’s efforts to express the emotions transmitted to her from nature and the unseen spiritual world. The late Swedish painter is regarded as a pioneer of abstract art, with her early 20thcentury works pre-dating the works of luminaries such as Wassily Kandinsky and Piet Mondrian. 3 March–22 May, Serpentine Galleries, Kensington Gardens, W2, serpentinegalleries.org

spotlight on the royal borough of Kensington & Chelsea: news, events, reviews & local interest stories

Picture Perfect A wonderful meeting of fashion and art, Anthropologie’s first show of 2016 at its King’s Road gallery is The Infinity Degree, a solo exhibition of landscapes captured by British photographer Chris Floyd. Illuminating an interesting relationship between scale and space, Floyd’s atmospheric images place viewers at particular moments in time, depicting fragile scenes on the precipice of change. Floyd’s collaboration with fashion brand Anthropologie adds to an already extensive list of accomplishments; his work has appeared in a host of prestigious publications, such as GQ and Esquire, and has been nominated for the Taylor Wessing Portrait Prize. Until 13 March, Anthropologie, 131–141 King’s Road, SW3, anthropologie.com From top: North Dakota Border; Côte d’Azur, both by Chris Floyd

The Star Man 2016 Season Collection by Simon Copeland

Ladies Who Lunch You are sure to enjoy getting ready for parties once designer Simon Copeland has launched his 2016 collection. Copeland will release a range of bespoke occasion wear at a Ladies’ Fashion Lunch in aid of Mencap, the UK’s leading charity for people with learning disabilities. Fittingly, the sumptuous ballroom of the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park hotel will be the setting for this event, where guests can see pieces from the designer whose previous clients include members of the Royal Family. Expect a gorgeous selection of clothes that cater to the forthcoming season, from Henley to Royal Ascot, as well as a special ensemble created exclusively to honour Mencap’s 70th anniversary.

Tachen’s new title, Mick Rock: The Rise of David Bowie 1972-1973, offers the perfect way to commemorate the music legend. Documenting the years in which Bowie’s groundbreaking album The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust was released, the singer’s official photographer, Mick Rock, takes readers on a journey of the expressive ’70s, tracking Bowie’s transformation into the glitter-clad, sexually ambiguous and utterly fearless persona that we remember him as today. As well as spectacular performance shots and intimate backstage portraits, this specialedition book is signed by Bowie and Rock, and contains previously unseen images that offer unprecedented insight into the singer’s personality and fame. £3,000, Taschen, 12 Duke of York Square, SW3 4LY, taschen.com

21 March, £90, Mandarin Oriental Hotel, 66 Knightsbridge, SW1X, mencap.org.uk/fashionlunch

covering kensington, chelsea, knightsbridge, holland park & notting hill

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All illustrations by: Brian Stonehouse

Britain’s

Most Stylish Spy From secret agent to New York socialite and portrait painter, Brian Stonehouse is one of the most mysterious fashion personalities. Rebecca Wallersteiner finds out more about the man behind the paintbrush

n the fashion world there are few stories as exceptional as that of Brian Stonehouse, whose life reads like a film script. A survivor of four Nazi concentration camps, after being captured while working as a spy in France during World War II, Stonehouse stayed alive by charming Gestapo guards with his exquisite drawings of their wives and girlfriends. “More details about this brilliant and enigmatic man’s professional life are gradually coming to light,” explains Philip Athill, managing director of Abbott and Holder, which deals with the artist’s estate. In 1946, Stonehouse moved to New York with his friend Major Harry Haller who belonged to an old Maryland family. Crossing the Atlantic, Stonehouse aimed to become a portraitist and Haller’s connections gave him an immediate

entrée into New York society. He was attracted to the style of wealthy women who came to sit for their portraits. In addition to capturing their faces, he drew their elegant clothes and jewellery. He had a particularly keen eye for hats and gloves and his flair caught the attention of Jessica Daves at American Vogue who hired him as staff illustrator. She believed that his talent as an artist would easily translate into a flair for depicting fashion. His immediate success proved that she was right. While at Vogue Stonehouse enjoyed a golden decade. His traditional art training and fluent French helped him find a place among the ranks of designers who were bringing European panache to the American fashion scene. Stonehouse drew some of the world’s most beautiful women, including actresses Sophia Loren and Tallulah Bankhead, capturing their poise, vitality and

SPOTLIGHT

stylish originality with spontaneous effortlessness. “He worked quickly and could dash off a fashion illustration in around ten minutes,” says Athill. In the early ’60s, Stonehouse collaborated with Daves on a new column, The Shop Hound, which aimed to bring ready-to-wear collections to readers inspired by the latest trends from Christian Dior, Cristóbal Balenciaga and Pierre Balmain. “During the 1960s and ’70s, the world changed dramatically,” says Athill. “Stonehouse’s extraordinary talent and survival skills enabled him to move with the times and transition to capturing the free-spirited, less structured clothes of the ’60s and ’70s.” Around this time he was introduced to the Kennedys by his acquaintance Afdera Franchetti, the society hostess and wife of Henry Fonda. “In the early 1960s Stonehouse became friends with Jackie Kennedy and moved within the jet-set circles of the Court of Camelot,” says Athill. When John F Kennedy decided to run for president in 1960, Stonehouse became caught up in the political campaign and met the movers and shakers of the day. He was invited everywhere and knew everyone that mattered. New York hostesses and celebrities loved his impeccable manners and chiselled features. His mantelpiece heaved with invitations to their black-tie dinners and he partied with leading politicians and Hollywood stars. In November 1963, John F Kennedy was tragically assassinated and the world turned upside down: the following years saw huge social and political change, which was reflected by the era’s fashions. The same year, Jessica Daves was replaced by the dynamic Diana Vreeland, who favoured young fashion photographers such as Richard Avedon to capture the energy and vitality of the “youthquake” of the new age, and fashion illustration receded.

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Stonehouse moved with the times and lightened his drawing style. “By the ’70s it had evolved from the Frenchified, painterly look of the ’50s to something much leaner and more graphic in line with fashion illustrators such as Kenneth Block and Antonio [Lopez],” explains Athill. Such was his reputation that Stonehouse had little difficultly going freelance and continued to attract advertising commissions, particularly from department stores such as Saks Fifth Avenue and Elizabeth Arden, working for the latter until the ’80s.

“Stonehouse’s extraordinary talent enabled him to move with the times” Stonehouse returned to London in 1979 and spent his final years living in Bayswater. One of his last commissions was of The Queen Mother, whose own social circles were not so dissimilar from those in which he had shone during his New York years. He died in 1998. In recent years, his images have enjoyed a new popularity with the emergence of a fresh generation of artists, including the celebrated David Downton and younger fashion designers at Gucci, drawing inspiration from 1970s fashion. The best sketches are now sought after as collectible artworks in their own right. “Normally, fashion illustrations were thrown away after they had been published,” says Athill, “but luckily something inside Stonehouse made him keep everything.” A selection of Brian Stonehouse’s fashion illustrations can be purchased through Abbott and Holder, abbottandholder.co.uk

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ART ANTIQUES BY Rebecca Wallersteiner Juliette Bigley, Two Bowls sculpture, hand-raised and fabricated in sterling silver, 2015

Silver Speaks A new show at the V&A, Silver Speaks: Idea to Object will celebrate the joint 20th anniversary of Contemporary British Silversmiths and the V&A’s silver galleries, and spotlight the exceptional creativity and skill in British silversmithing today. The exhibition’s curator Corinne Julius comments: “Silver fell out of favour but is now being rediscovered and enjoyed by a new generation.” The exhibition will present a dazzling range of pieces from 18 of Britain’s leading silversmiths, including Rauni Higson, Kevin Grey and Juliette Bigley. The Silver Trust will be unveiling a stunning installation, specially commissioned from Marcin Rusak to mark this special occasion. 8 March–31 January 2017, V&A, Cromwell Road, SW7 vam.ac.uk

In BADA Taste From left: Laura Bordignon, Japanese bronze rooster looking down at a small toad, with gilt details and inlaid glass eyes, standing on a gnarled wood base, signed Yoshiaki, Meiji Period; Beaux Arts, Henry Moore, Draped Reclining Figure, 1956, bronze LH411, From an edition of 9 + 2 2.75 x 6.25 inches (7 x 15.9 cm)

Put a date in your diary for the BADA Fair, now in its 24th year. If you happen to be looking for a spring wedding or anniversary present for art-loving friends, there will be almost 100 exhibitors delighted to share their specialist knowledge with you. Highlights include: a ravishing pair of sapphire and diamond hoop earrings, created in the 1960s by Van Cleef & Arpels, presented by

Anthea AG Antiques; an enigmatic bronze sculpture, Draped Reclining Figure by Henry Moore, dating from 1956 to be unveiled by Beaux Arts; and an impressive Regency period armchair dating from 1805 from Godson & Coles. The BADA Fair, 9–15 March, Duke of York Square, Chelsea, SW3, badafair.com

Rock ‘n’ Roll Candelabras Established in 2004 by Swedes Jimmie Karlsson and Martin Nihlmar, Jimmie Martin has won awards for its innovative furnishings, which are created either as limited editions or as bespoke pieces for clients. During March they will spotlight their hand-painted Imperfection Mess Candelabras (£3,000 for a pair). “We aim to surprise people with our one-off hand-painted pieces combining the decadent and quirky with the modern, as most mass-produced items are boring,” explains Karlsson. With such originality it isn’t surprising that their list of celebrity clients is getting longer: Madonna, Rita Ora and Liam Gallagher have all furnished their homes with unusual pieces from the store. Jimmie Martin, 77 Kensington Church Street, W8, jimmiemartin.com Above: Imperfection Candelabra

with curator Jenny Christensson on a solo exhibition of new work by Russian artist Aidan Salakhova Q. Where is the artist based? A. Aidan Salakhova moves between Moscow and Carrara, Italy, which is famed for its white and blue-grey marble. Q. Which are Salakhova’s preferred mediums? A.The artist works in sculpture, drawing, painting and video. Q. What are her main influences? A. Salakhova’s work reveals the influence of multiple artistic traditions: her traditional academy training in Soviet Moscow in the 1980s; the inspiration of Western art history and contemporary Western artists; and the art and craft of her Azeri and Uzbekistani heritage. Above: Without Words #1, 2014, 28 x 43 x 10cm, Private Collection of Dmitry Bykov (Russia); Below: Duality, 2015, Black Zimbabwean granite, white statuary marble, 220 x 400 x 100cm, Edition 2/3

Q. How does Salakhova’s new work aim to challenge preconceived ideas about gender? A. Salakhova uses the veiled figure to challenge the patriarchal order while referencing traditional and religious symbols. Her provocative video installation explores the erotic potential of the veil, the archetype of the dominatrix, and the fantasy of female domination and male submission. Her new work takes over one entire floor running alongside a separate all-women show that marks the Saatchi Gallery’s 30th anniversary.

Above: Wailing Wall, 20142015 Various dimensions, 80 pieces; Left: Bas-relief #9 from Persian Miniatures Series, 2014-2015, Black Belgian marble, white statuary marble, 90 x 70 x 40 cm

Q. Where has the artist’s work previously been shown? A. Twice at the Venice Biennale (1991 and 2011) and at the Second Moscow Biennale of Contemporary Art (2007). Revelations: New Work by Aidan, until 28 February, Saatchi Gallery, saatchigallery.com

Battersea Landmark Over the past 50 years the Battersea Power Station has become a notable landmark in London. Its urban beauty and marshy riverside location has influenced countless artists and photographers, including filmmaker Alice May Williams, the winner of this year’s prestigious Jerwood/FVU Awards. Her video-film installation, Dream City – More, Better, Sooner, was inspired by seeing a photo of her great-greatgrandmother in a failed amusement park from 1908, which was standing where the power station now is. Her film combines archive footage of Battersea Power Station in its industrial heyday with computergenerated projections of what it may soon become, confronting crucial questions about London’s housing and gentrification.

Film stills from Dream City – More, Better, Sooner by Alice May Williams. Produced as part of the Jerwood/ FVU Awards 2016: Borrowed Time. Images courtesy of the artist.

Jerwood/FVU Awards 2016: Borrowed Time, 9 March –24 April, Jerwood Space, 171 Union Street, SE1, jerwoodfvuawards.com

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Tuesday’s Bidders As part of the Christie’s Late events, the auction house is opening its doors to the public on the first Tuesday of every month. This month the auction house will welcome experts to talk about how they value items, what they look for when examining an object or artwork and what tools they use. Do bring along any item of jewellery, painting or drawing you want to learn more about with an expert’s help. If you’ve never attended an auction before, you can take part in a mock auction and learn how to bid and buy. There will be a bar – so stop by for a tipple and learn more about what goes on behind the scenes. Christie’s Lates: Meet the Specialists (sponsored by Strutt & Parker), 1 March, 6–8.30pm, Christie’s South Kensington, 85 Old Brompton Road, SW7, christies.com/lates

Aladdin’s Cave

Rosewood ‘Marwood’ Sideboard, designed by Martin Hall for Gordon Russell; Doris Zinkeisen (18981991) Brighton Beach at Paul Mayhew Fine Art; Double panther head torc, Plaza Jewellery

The Chelsea Antiques Fair opens its doors once again in Chelsea’s elegant Old Town Hall. Held over four days and celebrating its 66th year, the fair shows an eclectic mix of museum-quality pieces. Find beautifully made furniture, paintings, decorative art, silver, sculpture and ceramics. Don’t miss seeing the delightful 1930s novelty Paris Street lamp-post scent bottle at scent

specialist Richard Hoppé or the colourful Art Nouveau vases presented by Morgan. Markov will bring precious jewellery and Roger de Ville will display unique 18thcentury English pottery. 17–20 March, Chelsea Old Town Hall, King’s Road, SW3, penman-fairs.co.uk

Liz West, An Additive Mixture, 2013 Image courtesy of the artist

From top: Surrounded Islands POA; Valley Curtain POA; Wrapped Vespa POA; Running Fence POA

All Wrapped Up “Throughout March, we will be showing a collection of Christo’s beautiful, signed lithographs, both postcard and poster-sized; some are of the collaged plans for future projects and others are striking photographs of the finished installations,” says Rosanna Wilson Stephens, director of Wilson, Stephens & Jones. Christo was one half of the most colourful artistic couples in the late 20th century, the other being Jeanne-Claude. They seized newspaper headlines with their monumental outdoor works including the wrapping of the Pont-Neuf in Paris (1985) and the Reichstag in Berlin (1995). Sadly Jeanne-Claude died in 2009 but New York-based Christo continues to work and this latest collection will appeal to people nostalgic for the duo’s controversial creations. Throughout March, Wilson, Stephens & Jones, 71 Westbourne Park Road, W2, wilsonstephensandjones.com

Explore Sculpture Every year the Royal British Society of Sculptors (whose Patron is Her Majesty The Queen) runs the RBS Bursary Awards to help encourage highly talented, emerging sculptors. You will be able to see the work of the ten outstanding 2015 winners in a group exhibition held at the society’s historic headquarters in South Kensington. The Bursary Awards provide a platform for emerging sculptors to achieve their artistic potential and establish themselves professionally. 17 March–20 May, Royal British Society of Sculptors, 108 Old Brompton Road, SW7

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fashion

CALAMITY JANE While there was no mention of carnival in Clare Wright Keller’s synopsis of her latest collection for Chloé, there was definitely an element of festival spirit in the air. The S/S16 campaign was shot in Buenos Aires, which proved the perfect backdrop for the bohemian collection of peasant smocks, box pleated sundresses, ombre striped blouses and lace harem pants. This “youthful optimism” (as Wright Keller described it) continued into the accompanying line of accessories, with lace-up sandals in rainbow colours and tassel-trim leather and suede crossbody bags in sorbet shades being the standout pieces. For the designer, the whole collection was a tribute to the ‘90s when the fashion industry was more free-spirited and joyful. Jane tassel-trim crossbody bag, £1,105, chloe.com

Image courtesy of: Chloé

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S/S16 TRE

Calvin Klein

BY aMELIA mAYES

Emilia Wickstead

Dolce & Gabbana

Emilia Wickstead

Chanel

Amanda Wakeley Ermanno Scervino

Marc Jacobs

Erdem

Marc Jacobs

J.W.Anderson

Garden Party

Embrace spring and all its natural glory with the return of florals. From delicate embroidery to graphic patterns, expect to see blooms everywhere this season – in bold colours and clashing textures. Find trippy, cosmic styles at Calvin Klein, ditsy botanical motifs at Erdem and classic and sophisticated prints perfect for garden parties at Emilia Wickstead.

Shine brightly this season with glittering evening gowns and sparkling silver cropped jackets and midi skirts. Sheer fabrics, cut outs and mirrored designs in metallic made their way onto the catwalk, as Temperley London and Saint Laurent stood out in particular with their bedazzling takes on high shine. The former’s full-length sequined evening gown is a true showstopper.

Temperley London

Silver Lining

Arm Candy Throw some shapes away from the dance floor with this daring, structural trend. They may be associated with the ‘80s, but exaggerated, voluminous shoulders are back. 3.1 Phillip

fashion

ND REPORT Alexander

McQueen Gucci

Jonathan Saunders

Sonia Rykiel Delpozo

Michael Kors

Blugirl

Christian Dior Miu Miu

Blugirl

Giambattista Valli

MaxMara

Get in Line

Lim went for subtle sleeve decorations, while Christian Dior and Céline went all out with structured volume, the latter’s stiffened balloon sleeve design having raised the roof.

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Thick, thin, horizontal and vertical: you’ll find every variation of stripe on this season’s catwalk. As well as monochrome lines, bold primary colours inject a youthful edge to the graphic trend. Standout styles include MaxMara’s candy-cane stripes and multicoloured designs by Jonathan Saunders and Salvatore Ferragamo. Alternatively, get into the thick of it with Christian Dior’s fierce red and black spring coat.

5 Ruffle Up

Valentine’s Day may have just gone by, but the trail of romance is still lingering in the fashion world. Structured tiers, alluring frills and layers in bold hues and soft nudes were spotted across the catwalk. Michael Kors embraced his inner Latin lover with layered red ruffles, while Gucci opted for pink floating frills and Alexander McQueen took a more feminine approach with a shredded pale pink number.

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Image courtesy of: Elizabeth Saltzman

Salt of the Earth Stylist and contributing editor to Vanity Fair Elizabeth Saltzman is a steady fixture on the global fashion scene. Rosalyn Wikeley steals a few minutes with the style aficionado for some tips on how to survive London Fashion Week

INTERVIEW

lizabeth Saltzman is a celebrity in the traditional, pre-Kardashian sense of the word. Her illustrious reputation can be put down to her achievements as an editor and stylist, rather than her shocking home videos or size of her posterior. Dressing a plethora of A-listers from Cameron Diaz to Gemma Arterton, she is responsible for some of the red carpet’s most iconic moments, such as the Tom Ford caped gown worn by Gwyneth Paltrow at the 84th Academy Awards in 2012. However, she tells me that the pursuit of fame was never on the cards. “I don’t need attention from the outside world – I need it from my own inside world.” Here, the London-based stylist discusses her wardrobe staples, juggling family with her hands-on career, and the fashion industry before the birth of Instagram. When I first started out working for Giorgio Armani in the ‘80s, I was living this dream lifestyle where I was being whisked away to his design studio in Milan. Then I remember telling a designer friend [Calvin Klein] how I had met this crazy woman at a fashion show, who seemed so interesting, but I didn’t think I’d be able to survive working for her because I needed to pay for my flat and I knew the job wouldn’t support my lifestyle. But then he turned to me and said, ‘Will you please get off your high horse and understand that she is one of the all-time greats and you’re lucky to be in her presence?’ So I was hired by Polly Mellen, the then American Vogue editor. I had so much fun at Vogue. You were in the presence of greatness. It was all about learning and working 20-hour days, and not caring. In truth, I’m not a huge shopper. I think the shop at Bluebird has some great brands, but because I work directly with the designers I don’t really shop. For emergencies, I love going to Manolo Blahnik because here in London it is so different from the New York store. I’m also a huge fan of Emilia Wickstead. It’s amazing to see such a young designer with her own store in Chelsea. I’m very impressed by her. There’s also some incredible stuff in Tom Ford’s store on Sloane Street. His shearling coat solves every problem.

Pilotto and Christopher Kane. The past couple of seasons have been all about romance, sequins, ruffles, sleeve detailing and stripes. What really sets London apart though is its quality of life: its parks, culture and the general absence of iPhones which have now become glued to people’s faces elsewhere. I blame the American work ethic. I’m so blessed to have Gwyneth [Paltrow] as a friend. If people only knew how fun and funny she is. The thing is, she never edits what she says so people take what they want out of it, but so often it’s hysterical. We agree to disagree about things all the time. It has to be a healthy relationship in order for it to work. I love working with Uma Thurman and Cameron Diaz because they have personalities. I also adore Gemma Arterton. She’s like a French coquette cat even though she’s not French at all. I’m also really blown away by Saoirse Ronan right now. Twenty-one years old, has done 18 films, already twice Oscarnominated. It’s very exciting to be working with someone like her. The fashion world as we know it is changing, from how we shop to what we wear and where we wear it, as well as how insiders and outsiders get their information. The pressure for those that lead the pack is immense. Raf Simons’ decision to leave Dior was very sad and it will undoubtedly have a huge impact. Instagram has also been a massive gamechanger. Before, my private life was private and so I could be daring and crazy with what I wore because I knew it wasn’t going to end up anywhere public.

You should always have a killer black dress in your wardrobe – actually, about five killer black dresses if you’re lucky. You should have one that you can wear on a hot date, even with your husband who you’ve been married to for 20 years. And a classic one that can take you anywhere – say, if you’re going to the home of someone you’ve never met before, or a business dinner. Essentials such as a good pair of jeans, a jacket, white shirt and a sweater should never be scrimped on and, finally, every woman needs a beautiful bag because you’re never too fat to wear it.

When someone finds the perfect balance between being a wife and mum and having a job, will they please let me know? I want the answers sent to my email. In all honesty, being able to spend time and laugh with my children is a priority, as well as being a fairly strict mum. Manners are everything to me. And in my constant battle for equal rights between genders, I often forget that I truly enjoy being a wife to my husband. Making sure that he feels like he is the king of our castle is deeply important.

Lately, London has been on fire when it comes to Fashion Week. It’s giving Paris and New York a run for their money with all its big-gun designers and brands, from Burberry to Tom Ford. For me, the standout shows are Duro Olowu, Emilia Wickstead, Erdem, Peter

Fashion is not just about fun. This is a big old business that employs a lot of people around the world. And right or wrong, it’s our responsibility to make the most out of it.

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Gemma Arterton, photography: s_bukley/ Shutterstock.com

Gwyneth Paltrow at the 84th Academy Awards in 2012 in Tom Ford, image courtesy of: Getty Images

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Photography: ©Rankin

Fresh as a Daisy Celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, Escada looks younger than ever in its latest S/S16 collection. Bursting with florals, vibrant colours and contemporary cut-out pieces, the range brings a new lease of life to the brand and, indeed, to our summer wardrobes. As to which is our favourite look, the K&C team is torn between the eye-catching ornamental print Toul trousers with matching Nesis blouse (part of the Heritage capsule collection) and the yellow mesh midi dress. uk.escada.com

HER STYLE By olivia sharpe

Let Me Entertain You It did cross our minds that the models in the Céline S/S16 show might have forgotten to get dressed, as so many of them sported lingerie-inspired slip dresses and camisoles. But then we remembered that this season saw designers embrace the concept of underwear as the new outerwear. Inspired by the idea of “clothes that you could pack up and go somewhere with – a bit like a tent”, Phoebe Philo’s take on this trend was far more ‘glamping’ than it was ‘camping’, transforming as mundane an object as a pillow into one of the most talked-about accessories of the season. The cartable pillow handbag arrives in grey or black lambskin.

L’Agent by Agent Provocateur takes centre stage this year with its dazzling S/S16 collection. This season’s daring new colour palette includes amethyst, electric cobalt and lapis lazuli, as showcased in the Odessa, Adlina and Mariona styles. Along with its statement pieces, the latest line sees a greater focus on nightwear, with the Jada teddy suit making a playful debut in black or amethyst stretch chiffon, along with the beautiful Idalia white gown. However, the star of the show would have to be Layla; the black lace bodysuit features an elaborate boned effect and bare back to create an enviable silhouette.

£1,850, celine.com/en

lagentbyap.com

Pillow Talk

Spring Time

Photography: ©Burberry/Testino

Put some spring in your step with Jerome C. Rousseau’s vibrant new collection. Renowned for his show-stopping pieces, this season was no different for the LAbased shoe designer, who has created a number of multicoloured, floral and metallic pieces that are guaranteed to make you stand out from the crowd. Rousseau often draws upon his passion for modern art and European design, but his latest styles have on this occasion been named after his closest friends. From £325-719, jeromecrousseau.com

Drop in the Ocean Those lucky souls among you who are jetting off for some winter sun: don’t forget to make a pit stop at Heidi Klein to stock up on some new beach attire. The brand’s latest Resort ‘16 collection is available in stores and includes bikinis, one-pieces, cover-ups and dresses, along with some sportier pieces for those of you who prefer hitting the surf instead of lounging by the pool. 257 Pavilion Road, SW1X; heidiklein.com

Back to Back The trusty rucksack has made a sartorial comeback this season and one fashion house fronting the pack is British heritage brand Burberry, which introduces the practical bag as its break-out accessory for S/S16. The inspiration for the lightweight nylon carryall was taken directly from Burberry’s military archive and, like its staple trench, features a gabardine construction. Available in two sizes and colourways (with new colours being added throughout the season), each rucksack can also be personalised with the wearer’s initials. Paired with a summer dress or a winter coat, this accessory will carry you effortlessly from season to season. £795 plus £50 for monogramming of up to three initials, uk.burberry.com

Pair Up British brands L.K.Bennett and Bionda Castana have proven the perfect pair. Signature Bionda Castana styles such as the Lana, Alexa and Denni have been adapted to tie in with L.K.Bennett’s timeless aesthetic, resulting in 20 unique styles named after inspiring women. The distinctive January pumps feature a graphic chequerboard print, while the feminine pastel pink Betty block heels have soft scallop detailing. Although L.K.Bennett has previously partnered with the likes of Laura Bailey and Caroline Issa, this is the first time it has worked with another brand, marking an exciting new direction for the label. From £275-350, lkbennett.com

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Spring to

Action From graphic stripes and plentiful florals to delicate frills and â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;90s-inspired slip dresses, embrace the hottest S/S16 trends

Photographer: Rachael Louise May

Stylist: Elizabeth Hoadly

Coat, ÂŁ2,800, Christian Dior, 31 Sloane Street, SW1X

Left / Dress, POA, Erdem, 70 South Audley Street, W1K Above / Dress, ÂŁ17,500, Giorgio Armani, armani.com

make-up: Maria Vittoria Bortolussi at Frank Agency using MAC Cosmetics hair: Davide Barbieri at Caren using Aveda Model: Vick @ Profile Model Management Photographerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s assisTANT: Benny J Johnson Shot on location at St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel, stpancraslondon.com

Above / Dress, POA, Dolce & Gabbana, 175 Sloane Street, SW1X; Shoes, POA, Stuart Weitzman, eu.stuartweitzman.com; Ring, POA, Chaumet, 174 New Bond Street, W1S Left / Dress, ÂŁ450, Rag & Bone, 13-14 Sloane Square, SW1W

Image courtesy of: Hugo Boss

Show Who’s Boss In exciting news, Hugo Boss has just opened its new flagship store on Regent Street. Spanning two floors, it is the brand’s largest boutique in the UK and inside you will find the full BOSS menswear and womenswear collections, including ready-to-wear, shoes and accessories. The men’s S/S16 range was inspired by architectural lines and avant-garde materials, and classic outwear pieces have been updated with sharp tailoring, bright colours and bold graphic prints. For something even more unique, there is a dedicated Made to Measure room where specialist tailors are on hand to create bespoke suits, shirts and accessories. BOSS store, 180 Regent Street, W1B, hugoboss.com

HIS STYLE By NATASHA LEVY

Photography: Rankin

Ground Breakers Belstaff honours continent-crossers and daring lifestyles in its new Worship the Ground campaign, starring intrepid explorer Sir Ranulph Fiennes and Hollywood stuntman Riley Harper. The campaign showcases the brand’s iconic Trialmaster short boot, which has been the footwear of choice for those who seek the thrill of exploration since its creation in 1955. Adapted from the style of military and biker boots, the Trialmaster is crafted from hand-waxed calf leather, which creates a luxurious but very functional design that will no doubt see you through all of your own great adventures. Trialmaster short boot, £425, belstaff.co.uk

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Scent Symphony

Crew Cut

As we slowly move into spring, it is time to invest in a new fragrance and for the fashion-conscious among you, we highly recommend Carven’s new L’Eau Intense fragrance, which recently wafted its way into Selfridges. The well-balanced scent – the joint efforts of perfumers Jérôme Di Marino and Francis Kurkdjian (the pair behind the brand’s signature women’s perfume, Carven L’Absolu) - combines powerful spicy and woody notes with fresh touches of mint, grapefruit and cardamom.

This year sees J Crew debut its first ever range of sunglasses, bringing its modern, American aesthetic to the all-important summer accessory. Handmade from acetate, the men’s range includes a classic Aviator style called Jack, along with a new take on a round frame (Sam), and a slick, rectangular model christened Irving – meaning that every face shape and style preference has been catered for. As well as ensuring lenses are both scratch-resistant and 100 per cent UV protected, designer Jenna Lyons has paid close attention to the smaller details, from the custom-made colours down to the small hinges on the side of each frame.

From £35, available at Selfridges, selfridges.com

£98-118, jcrew.com/uk

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A KILIMANJARO & HARVEY GOLDSMITH PRESENTATION

THE WORLD’S MOST BELOVED TENOR

UK & IRELAND TOUR 2016 SATURDAY 1ST OCTOBER

LONDON THE O2

CINEMA WORLD TOUR TICKETS AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ANDREABOCELLI.COM/TICKETS AXS.com / MYTICKET.CO.UK

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08/01/2016 11:51

Photography: David Sims

lifestyle

Make Your Marc The wait is finally over. The Marc Jacobs Beauty make-up collection went into Harrods on 1 February and as expected, products have already flown off the shelves. While it has previously been possible to buy select products at the brand’s Mount Street store, this is the first time the full collection is available in the UK, and items include new launches such as the Le Marc Lip Crème in Charlotte (a Harrods exclusive) and the Velvet Noir Major Volume mascara, of which Winona Ryder (a long-standing friend of the founder) is the face. Marc our words, it is well worth a visit. From £15, available exclusively at Harrods, harrods.com

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HEALTH BEAUTY BY Olivia sharpe Image courtesy of: ©YSL Beauté

Self Preservation

In a selfie-addicted world, it has never been more important for our make-up to be camera-ready at all times – which is why YSL Beauty has introduced 12 new lipsticks to its Rouge Volupté Shine Oil-in-Stick range especially for ‘instagirls’. For when you’re running from workouts to working lunches, opt for one of the four Day Bloomer hues, such as light coral or subtle nude. For evenings when you’re out on the town, remember to glam it up with a statement shade from Night Birds. Finally, busy weekenders are also catered for with four new colours to wear to brunch, gallery visits or leisurely shopping trips. Say cheese. Available from 24 February, £26 each, yslbeauty.co.uk

Some Like It Haute

Ford Focus

Embracing the future has never been a problem for Tom Ford: in a media sensation, the designer did away with a traditional fashion show this year and instead presented a filmed version of his S/S16 collection, starring none other than Lady Gaga, who was joined by a host of dancing models. Capture the camera-worthy beauty looks through the brand’s latest colour collection, encompassing a range of electric eye shadows. We particularly love the retro glamour of siren blue. Cream colour for eyes, £32, Tom Ford Beauty, available on net-a-porter.com

Elie Saab’s latest fragrance has been dedicated to a flower that has cropped up again and again in the fashion house’s couture collections: the rose. Renowned perfumer Francis Kurkdjian was the man responsible for harvesting the new scent which, along with rose nectar, is brimming with floral notes including orange blossom, fresh peony and jasmine. Rose Couture eau de toilette, £70 for 70ml, eliesaab.com

Mix and Matcha

Wearing nail polish constantly can be harmful to your nails, but fortunately Nails inc. has remedied this problem with its new Sweet Almonds collection, which incorporates matcha powder – a powerful antioxidant that will protect nails and boost moisture – as well as a sweet almond oil base within each shade. The range comprises three muted colours, including linen blue, porcelain grey, warmed pink, and a revolutionary rose gold shade. We guarantee your nails will never have looked so healthy. £14 each, nailsinc.com

Image courtesy of: Parfums Christian Dior, spring 2016, Glowing Gardens

A Matter of Thyme

Ahead of the Chelsea Flower Show in May, Jo Malone has taken inspiration from the aromatic foliage of a herb garden to cook up its latest batch of fragrances. The collection introduces five scents featuring an array of herbs that you would more commonly expect to find in your larder, including: sorrel and lemon thyme, wild strawberry and parsley, nasturtium and clover, carrot blossom and fennel, and finally lavender and coriander. For a spicy, nostalgic scent, we suggest stocking up on nasturtium and clover, which in one spritz conjures up a summer’s forest with its blend of cool clover and peppery rocket. The Herb Garden Collection, available in March £44 for 30ml, jomalone.co.uk

Get the Gloss Get up and Glow

In homage to the idyllic gardens of founder Christian Dior’s home in Granville, make-up director Peter Philips has created a light and natural beauty look for the season which is bursting with pastel shades and radiant pigments. To recreate models’ fresh, dewy complexions as sported in the S/S16 show, use an evanescent foundation before brightening cheekbones with the brand’s iconic Diorskin Nude illuminating powder, which has been reimagined with a limited edition embossed flower for spring. Apply to the high planes of the face to achieve a lovely luminous glow. Finally, finish the look with Diorblush Glowing Gardens in Floral Pink for the perfect rosy blush. Diorskin Nude Air Glowing Gardens, £40; Diorblush Glowing Gardens in Floral Pink, £32.50; 020 7216 0216, dior.com

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It is now possible to get the best of both worlds thanks to Guerlain’s latest lipstick range, which combines the brand’s covetable lipstick shades with its best-selling fragrance, La Petite Robe Noire. Along with their irresistible scented texture, the 20 new shades can be layered up depending on how deep you would like the colour to be (one layer for a natural day look, two for casual chic and three for a glamorous, statement effect in the evening), and also contain pure and ultraluminous pigments so lips look shinier than ever before. £21.50 each, exclusive to House of Fraser until 1 March

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& GARDEN

HOME

BY NATASHA LEVY

Photography: Nick Pope

Room Mates As a tribute to her late friend Oscar de la Renta, OKA co-founder Lady Astor has created a range of pieces based on the fashion designer’s home in the Dominican Republic. Having visited the exotic location numerous times on holiday, the founder has taken inspiration from De la Renta’s natural talent for “pulling together a room from an assortment of items he’d collected over the years” to produce her own collection of eclectic yet elegant furniture. Standout pieces include the Caldora sofa – a French-inspired piece upholstered in natural cotton – and the Fauntleroy: a contemporary stool in stonewashed indigo with brass stud detailing. Caldora sofa: £1,485; Fauntleroy stool: £425 155-167 Fulham Road, SW3, okadirect.com

London Design Week 2016 Described as the supplier of ‘couture for the home’, the Design Centre Chelsea Harbour once again plays host to London Design Week this month. A mix of unique collections and specially commissioned installations, the event offers a wealth of inspiration for the discerning interiors collector. Whether you’re looking to put the finishing touches to your home or seeking ideas on how to style spaces for business projects, the event gives you the opportunity to speak to influential designers and access specialist expertise that will no doubt ignite your imagination. 13-18 March, Design Centre Chelsea Harbour, dcch.co.uk

Au Naturel For previous homeware collections, Jean Paul Gaultier has invariably remained in his comfort zone and drawn reference to his haute couture fashion shows. However, for his latest range, the designer has instead looked to the outdoors for inspiration. Along with bold romantic florals and patterns of rolling waves, the range also references more unusual elements of the natural world, such as the brilliant earthy tones created by metal oxidisation and the vibrant colours associated with the rural landscape of the Basque Country. Choose from a selection of cushions or purchase one of the unique prints in fabric form to transform curtains and upholstery. £95 per metre, lelievre.eu

Off the Wall Making your home appear bigger is quite an optical illusion and so who better for interior designer Kelly Hoppen MBE to call upon to help her achieve this than celebrated magician Dynamo? In an unusual collaboration, the pair has used the latest technology to produce digitally printed trompe l’oeil wallpapers. There are two designs available: Enigma has a three-dimensional pillar effect, while Paradox imitates an angled, jutting stone wall. Using realistic imagery and optical design, each one gives a sense of space to a room. And the magic doesn’t end there: a percentage of the proceeds are being donated to the Prince’s Trust in honour of its 40th anniversary. The Illusionist Wallpaper collection, from £30 per square metre, grahambrown.com/uk

Bowled Over Sitting Pretty Take pleasure in sitting with Beaumont & Fletcher’s new selection of chairs for 2016. Adding to its extensive collection of English handmade furnishings, the Edgar chair is an elegant, contemporary design, while the Theodore presents a modern take on the traditional high-back wing chair. Both styles are available in a fabric of your choice, but in order to make the pieces even more bespoke, clients can choose from a range of wood stains, two different leg styles (turned or square-tapered) and with or without castors.

LSA International glassware is literally going full circle with the release of its new Globe range for 2016. The spherical vases are ideal for adding drama to large, informal bouquets or for creating internal floating displays. The sleek designs are mouth-blown and hand-finished by a team of artisans and are available in clear or coloured glass, which can then be mixed and matched for the ultimate visual effect. lsa-international.com

Beaumont & Fletcher, 261 Fulham Road, SW3, beaumontandfletcher.com

History in the Making Venetian textile company Rubelli has a gift for combining its 150-year old heritage with modern innovations and the latest collection, In Wonderland, proves it. Drawing on its weaving expertise, the Italian design studio has incorporated threads of silk, metallic yarn and technical fibres to create fabrics that resemble works of art, many featuring 3D effects inspired by old documents, nature and art. Highlights include Giotto – a monochrome print that has a hand-crafted sketch appearance – and Backgammon, which arrives in jacquard velvet and features a simple geometric pattern. Rubelli, Design Centre East, SW10, rubelli.com Image credit: Chair Klismos by Donghia suit by Gentucca Bini, all Giotto

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Kids KINGDOM BY Natasha Levy

Heart and Sole Make sure they find their footing for the season ahead in Pom d’Api’s new line of shoes for boys and girls. From chic sandals and pretty ballet pumps to practical boots and stylish loafers, there’s a style to suit all of their outdoor pursuits, whether they’re out exploring the country woods or rock climbing at the seaside. Each item comes in a neutral shade and has been made with a durable sole – so you can be sure that they will last throughout the summer months without falling to pieces. From £41, available at melijoe.com/uk

The Smell of Rebellion Matilda The Musical is now in its fifth run in the West End. And yet somehow, the Royal Shakespeare Company continues to add wonderful new twists to this much-loved production. From 15 March, young performers Zaris-Angel Hator, Clare Read and Emily-May Stephenson will be joining Evie Hone in playing the title role. With this explosion of fresh new talent on stage, there will be all the more reason to sing along. To book tickets, visit the website: uk.matildathemusical.com

Like Mother, Like Daughter Bold, printed skirts and duster coats in Marni’s new S/S16 Bambina collection reflect the fashion house’s love of geometric structures, while the denim dungarees, tracksuits and colourful knitwear add a playful element. This season marks the launch of the Italian fashion brand’s baby range, comprising a dress, trousers, T-shirt and bathing suits, all of which arrive in a beautifully decorated box featuring children’s artwork. From £50, 26 Sloane Street, SW1X, marni.com

Photography: Manuel Harlan

Hop to It Your little ones are guaranteed to bounce with joy following the news of Mamas & Papas and Fifi Lapin’s new collection. For a second time, the family brand and fashion bunny blogger have collaborated to create a charming line of clothing for girls up to the age of three. Just as you would expect from the furry fashionista, the range – encompassing rompers, collared bodysuits and quilted jackets – is full of contemporary styles that arrive in a stylish colour palette and feature Fifi’s signature print. From £12, mamasandpapas.com

Spring Clean Adding an exotic twist to a British children’s literary classic, Dragons of Walton Street has placed Beatrix Potter’s Peter Rabbit and his friends against a Moroccan-inspired backdrop for its latest range of furniture. Pieces include a cot, chest of drawers and a waste paper bin that have each been handpainted with the much-loved characters and a traditional gold Moroccan pattern, transforming children’s bedrooms into temples of peace and tranquility where they will no doubt dream of adventures abroad. Waste bin, £245; Cot, £2,295; Large chest of drawers, £2,695 available at Harrods

All That Jazz A Cracking Easter Give your kids their chocolate fix this Easter with a great selection of treats on offer at Harrods. The wonderfully whimsical egg by Pierre Marcolini has been decorated with larger-than-life playing cards, undoubtedly drawing reference to Lewis Carroll’s delightful novel, Alice in Wonderland. In order to make full use of their sugar rush, children’s party supplies company Meri has countless great ideas for the holiday period, including kits for egg hunting and decorating, as well as bunny cupcake sets and crackers.

We thought metallic tuxedos had gone the way of disco pants and leg warmers, but turns out we were wrong as Dolce & Gabbana has resuscitated this somewhat courageous sartorial statement in its S/S16 boys’ collection. Ensuring little gentlemen are just as fashion forward as their fathers, the Italian designers have created miniature versions of the technicolour tailoring trend as highlighted in this season’s men’s collection, coming in jewelled hues of silver and gold to ensure they stand out from the crowd at any social occasion. POA, 8 Sloane Street, SW1X dolcegabbana.com

Pierre Marcolini eggs, £49 for 500g, available at Harrods

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Take on IRONMAN® 70.3® Staffordshire triathlon alongside Gordon and Tana Ramsay. They’ve secured 100 places on the sold-out event for their team – the GTR100.

Join the GTR100 and receive: Top of the range HUUB Archimedes wetsuit HUUB tri-suit, cycling jersey, bib shorts and running kit Musculoskeletal screening with Team GB Physiotherapists Invitation to training events alongside elite athletes

With only 100 places available, secure your place today.

gosh.org/GTR100

Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity. Registered charity no. 1160024.

high life

Guerlain Says Relax Follow in the footsteps of Audrey Hepburn and Brigitte Bardot (and Kim Kardashian, but the less said about her the better) by indulging in exquisite fragrances and cosmetics from Guerlain. The French skincare and makeup maison has tailored treatments especially for the spa at One&Only The Palm in Dubai. Receive a hot-and-cold vitality-boosting treatment or enjoy an oriental experience, both with lotions and potions made from natural and rare ingredients. If a holiday in the Middle East is not enough to relieve tension and stress, the restorative powers of rare orchids, bees and natural pearls bottled in jars made from precious jewels are sure to do the trick. oneandonlyresorts.com

The spa at One&Only The Palm

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Travel

THE WORLD By Hannah Lemon

A Model Moment Before you meet up with the likes of Olivier Rousteing, Carolina Herrera and Isabel Marant at Paris Fashion Week this month, why not check in to the Mandarin Oriental on rue Saint-Honoré? To reflect the rich haute couture scene of the city, the hotel has been dutifully decorated with intricate precision by a long list of sculptors, photographers, artists, architects and interior designers. Take time to indulge in the sophisticated surroundings at Sur Mesure par Thierry Marx and Bar 8 with fine food and sumptuous cocktails; you won’t want to be seen anywhere else. mandarinoriental.com/Paris

Blue Days One of the best ways to experience the Indian Ocean is with a night’s stay in an overwater villa. Havodda Maldives provides a bedroom on stilts over a crystal clear sea, so you can fall asleep and wake up to the soothing sound of waves rippling below. During the day, enjoy island hopping, sailing, fishing, snorkelling and scuba diving. But don’t get too friendly with the sea life – some of it might be landing on your plate at the Amaya Food Gallery for a delicious Asian feast.

The Cabochons suite terrace, Mandarin Oriental Paris

Godfathers of Hospitality You may not know it, but Robert De Niro’s CV – aside from actor, director and producer – includes restaurateur. The Hollywood legend partnered with chef Nobu Matsuhisa to launch the Nobu brand, first in New York and now in Riyadh. The latest offering, with its 134 spacious rooms and suites designed by the acclaimed Rockwell Group, is sure to live up to expectations. Book now. Yes, we’re talking to you. nobuhotelriyadh.com

amari.com/havodda-maldives

Spa and Safari

Anya Hindmarch has created this limited edition Be A Bag wash bag (£195) to celebrate the summer opening

The Nihiwatu resort on the Indonesian island Sumba offers a unique experience at its secluded villa Uma Izzie. Starting with a scenic safari trek or short drive through the Nihi Oka Valley, couples can spend the rest of the day enjoying spa treatments. This is followed by an intimate dinner against the Sumbanese sunset surrounded by 1,000 candles. It’s certainly one way to keep the fire burning. nihiwatu.com

of Il Sereno in Lake Como. Stay at the sister hotel Le Sereno in St Barths to receive it as a gift or buy it online at lesereno.com

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NICO ROSBERG Global citizen

MII .. C CO TTUUM OMM

211 Regent Street, L ondon • Westfield Shepherds Bush, L ondon • L ondon City Airport

211 Regent Street, L ondon • Westfield Shepherds Bush, L ondon • L ondon City Airport Also available at Case, Harrods and Selfridges Also available at Case, Harrods and Selfridges

From North

to South A view of Florence from Il Salviatino

We send three intrepid travellers to suss out the unique attractions of Italyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s famous boot. They tell us where to find the best Roman relics, picturesque ports, gastronomical delights and welcoming hotels

TRAVEL

You canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t go wrong with a city break in Italy. From the small jewel of a city, Verona, to the mother of all Renaissance cities, Florence, it is quick and easy to get around with high-speed train links. Famous as the setting for Romeo & Juliet, Verona makes the most of its Shakespearean connections but it is so much more than that. The city proudly displays its layers of history: in only a few steps, you can go from the Roman amphitheatre in the city centre (still used for concerts and plays all year round) to a square dedicated to Dante. Glimpses of its precious past are echoed in Hotel Palazzo Victoria, which is set in the medieval heart

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Verona. Image courtesy of: Hotel Palazzo Victoria

of the area. Passing a graffitied wall, 1950s Felliniesque white leather chairs in the reception and Roman frescoes preserved in the suites, you can almost time travel through Verona as you walk down to breakfast. Kathi Hall Hotel Palazzo Victoria, Verona, palazzovictoria.com

Verona

Club Victoria at Hotel Palazzo Victoria

To see Michelangelo’s David with your own eyes is unforgettable If Verona is a subtle city that benefits from leisurely wandering, Florence is a place that can overwhelm even the most excited tourist. To see the Duomo or Michelangelo’s David with your own eyes is unforgettable, but make sure you also take time to meander down the high-walled side streets that are home to traditional workers, small independent boutiques and coffee houses buzzing with local chatter. For something really special, get a table at Cibreo Teatro del Sale owned by local legend Fabio Picchi, who looks like Neptune with his flowing white hair and beard. The traditional Tuscan dishes are made even more exceptional by the fact that the lady of the house pulls a chair up to your table to describe the menu as if it were a bedtime story. Staying at the five-star Il Salviatino in the foothills outside Florence means you’re far from the madding crowd after a day of sightseeing. This restored 15th-century villa has a terrace

Orangery at Hotel Palazzo Victoria

TRAVEL

overlooking the formal gardens, which is perfect for a leisurely breakfast in the morning or a cheeky cocktail in the cool of the evening. The laid-back luxury and charming staff lull you into the dream that the villa is all yours. Open your window late at night to hear opera from the terrace with Florence lit up in the distance. It’s a sense memory that will stay with you for the rest of your life. Kathi Hall

Florence

Il Salviatino, Florence, salviatino.com

With rolling green hills and a 15th-century castle, it’s hard not to feel like you’re in a dream

One Italian hideaway, where barely a word of English is heard, is particularly popular with the Sienese and Florentines looking for some time away from their beautiful but busy cities. It’s called Castiglione della Pescaia, which could only mean paradise in Italian (I don’t speak a word of the language). With blue sea, rolling green hills and, between the two, a walled medieval town, complete with towers, gates and a 15th-century castle, it’s hard not to feel like you’re in a dream. Even more so when a dish of pappardelle al pomodoro arrives at the table just as you’re finishing your first glass of Le Mortelle’s 2009 Vintage. Located in the south-western portion of Tuscany, in the province of Grosseto, this ancient fishing town offers some

This page: Views from Il Salviatino, Florence

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This page: Elba island, Rio Marina village bay Giglio island

Cala Del Porto beach

of the best beaches in Italy, with stunning views of the islands of Elba and Giglio, hikes through Le Biancane National Park, and fascinating trails of Etruscan ruins. If you’re not so much an archaeologist, as an architect or a sommelier, you’ll be interested to hear of the region’s designer wineries, including Renzo Piano’s Rocca di Frassinello and Mario Botta’s Cantina Petra. Then again, if stretching out on a sun lounger and admiring a view is what you’re really looking for in a seaside sojourn, then it doesn’t get any better than Hotel Cala del Porto. Standing amid the Maremma pine forests leading to the sea, the hotel offers guests a magnificent view of the entire Tuscan archipelago. Its 38 bay-facing rooms and suites are decorated in a traditional Tuscan style and offer all the creature comforts one would expect. With two restaurants to choose from, offering both regional Tuscan and Italian cuisine, expect to be extending your stay. Tiffany Eastland Rooms at Baglioni Hotel Cala del Porto are available from €300 B&B per night. Price is based on two adults sharing and includes VAT. baglionihotels.com/caladelporto, +39 0564 922455.

TRAVEL

Porto di Maratea is the ideal spot to watch the sunset while enjoying an Aperol hotel still visit regularly, and if you’re lucky you may even spot their adorable dog Peppino. The town’s yacht and fishing harbour, Porto di Maratea, is a short walk down the hill from the hotel and is well worth a visit for its wonderful boutique shops and restaurants. It’s also the ideal spot to watch the sunset while enjoying an Aperol (or any other aperitif of your choice, of course). If you’re looking for further relaxation, make sure you check out Santavenere Hotel’s grotto-style Le Therme Spa. Although it seems a little unorthodox that such facilities are part of what seems like a traditional offering, it’s certainty a pleasant surprise and up to four guests can enjoy exclusive use of the facilities, which include a rain shower, sauna, salt cave, sun room, steam room, pool and ice bath. The latter is sure to wake you up if you fall into a slumber. Francesca Lee Santavenere Hotel, Via Conte Stefano Rivetti 1, 85046 Maratea, Italy, santavenere.it

Santavenere Hotel

Castiglione della Pescaia Maratea

Aerial view of Maratea harbour

For more breathtaking views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, pay a visit to Santavenere Hotel, which is positioned on the rocky coastline of Maratea in southern Italy. Although the nearest airport in Naples is at least a two-hour drive away, it’s well worth a stopover if you’re driving south to Sicily. Built in 1956, the château-style house, complete with antique furniture and oil paintings, has a family home feel. Indeed, the owners who used to live at the

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Anshun Bridge, Chengdu, Sichuan

The Spice of Life Clare Vooght goes to town in south-west China, sampling Sichuan chillies, performing tai chi by Mount Emei and cooing over Chengduâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pandas

TRAVEL

n the past 24 hours I have seen bamboo used as scaffolding, as a decorative table centre and as a tool for warding off thieving monkeys. I’ve even eaten it in soup – it’s mild tasting, soft with a little bite. Now, however, it is being used during a massage to roll and pummel my muscles into blissful submission after a mountain hike. I’m staying at the tranquil Anantara Resort, at the foot of Sichuan’s Mount Emei – the highest of China’s four sacred

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Buddhist mountains and a UNESCO heritage site – and a few hours earlier I was at the mountain’s peak. Despite thick mountain fog, the payoff was worth the cable car ride and a brisk hour-long march to the 3,099-metre summit – pursued by adorable but cheeky monkeys who we spotted sipping from stolen water bottles despite hikers wielding bamboo sticks. The world’s highest golden Buddha statue, 48 metres tall with ten faces, dominates the mountaintop Buddhist temple, which was the first to be built in China in

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the first century AD. Incense smoke snakes around fruit offerings inside gold pagoda-roofed structures and dancing flames warm the chilly air outside from rows of thick red candles and huge iron cauldrons. It’s up here on Mount Emei where the botanicals for the products used in Anantara’s lakeside spa are grown. And when I return, the spa provides the perfect antidote to my sore limbs after the combination of the hike and a ten-hour flight the previous day. During the course of my signature bamboo massage, which follows a milk and rose petal foot soak, each and every knot in my body is rolled smooth with a mixture of traditional massage and rolling pin-style bamboo work. It sets me up for a deep sleep in my luxurious yet cosy Anantara pavilion – with intricately carved dark wood furniture and magenta orchid flowers placed on every available surface – and I rise early the following morning for some traditionally Chinese tai chi by the lake. From behind pampas grass I spot black swans floating past as my teacher, Gree, shows me the ropes. I had always thought the ultra-slow movements looked easy, but Gree tells me each controlled pose must be reached while tensing your muscles and breathing in the correct way – and I realise it’s not quite as simple as it looks. Once I’ve mastered the theatrical tai chi moves, it’s time to witness another theatrical Chinese export – Sichuan cuisine. Sichuan spice is unique in that it causes tingling and numbness, and its food has steadily been growing in influence outside China. Anantara’s fine-dining restaurant Jinyi serves up dish after dish of authentic Sichuanese food – all intended for sharing – including a creation entitled Riches and Flower Blossom. It comprises pastry flowers arranged on a tree carved from dark wood, with scallops deep fried with potato strands and prawns in lychees with a sweet red sauce.

A frog stew, red with chilli, comes to the table next, where the bowl is dramatically set on fire. Noodles follow, with beans, pak choy and spicy Sichuan numbness. The spectacle ends with custard tarts and pastries topped with delicate sugar-crafted swan necks and heads, served on a plate with a green centre and hand-crafted flowers and lilly pads, so the dish looks like a lake. Stomach satisfied, I leave the peace of the mountains that afternoon for Chengdu: Sichuan’s capital and China’s sprawling fourth city of 14 million. In comparison with other great Chinese metropolises, Chengdu is a little more laid-back, but still chaotic by European standards, and driving on one of the main veins into the city on a Friday evening is a noisy, lethargic experience. The Temple House in downtown Chengdu provides a welcome sanctuary when I check in at the quiet, centuries-old restored courtyard with its wood-carved walls and balconies. The hotel, which opened last year, blends traditional Chinese aesthetics with modern design: pagoda roofs here, sharp, clean lines there; the rooms have traditional-style dark wood screens and sliding mirrored doors; the spa’s minimal treatment rooms with off-white leather wall panels stand beside a traditional teahouse inspired by a traditional Chinese apothecary. It is incredibly sleek and incredibly cool. In creating the skylight ceiling of the pool, the architect – Make, the British firm that redesigned the new escalator hall

Sichuan spice is unique in that is causes tingling and numbness

This page: All images Anantara Emei Resort; Opposite page: All images The Temple House

TRAVEL

at Harrods and built the Copper Box Arena for the London Olympics – drew inspiration from the terraced rice fields on hills frequently seen in the Chinese countryside. After a few lengths of the pool I head to The Temple Café for the hotel group’s latest fashion collaboration. Stylish parent brand Swire has previously teamed with Diptyque, but its style ally during my stay is Lanvin: it has drafted in the fashion house to create a Lanvin afternoon tea. A selection of sweet, decadent French-inspired macarons, pink éclairs and redcurrant-topped chocolate tarts is presented alongside napkins and placemats featuring specially hand-drawn illustrations by former Lanvin creative director Alber Elbaz. Love Lanvin is written on one of the plates in sugar. And as a final touch, guests are all given a tote bag or fan bearing the same designs to take home. The newly developed surrounding area Taikoo Li is equally hip, with similar restored-meets-modern aesthetics and plenty of bars, restaurants, and clothing and design boutiques. Especially worth a visit is The Upper Gallery, which acts as both a booking-only design restaurant and furniture showroom, where intimate dinners are served among innovative new furniture pieces. Amid all this is the tranquil Daci Temple, dating back to the seventh century.

s l u x u ry l o n d o n . c o. u k s

And within walking distance are all the designer stores you could need – including Salvatore Ferragamo, Louis Vuitton and Prada. Above the latter hangs an enormous panda sculpture that appears to be climbing onto its roof. Chengdu is quite rightly proud of its pandas – photos and cartoons of the fluffy bears are all over the city. The real ones are most active first thing in the morning, so head to the Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding on the edge of Chengdu early. Young ones perch impossibly on thin branches up trees and even the adults are heart-stoppingly cute – I could have happily watched a pair sloppily jostling around and playing in slow motion for hours. If you’re especially lucky, you may see baby ones. If you can tear yourself away, take a walk around the colourful Tibetan quarter for great food and a little spirituality, or for a quintessential Chinese park experience head to the adjacent People’s Park. Here I witness scores of people watching outdoor karaoke performers warble their way through Mandarin classics and groups of locals doing tai chi. For a more peaceful experience, visit Wangjianglou Park – which is, in essence, a riverside park in a forest of, yes, more bamboo. A walk along the quiet bamboo-lined walkways, past magnificent pagodas and miniature waterfalls on the edges of preened ponds and over their little footbridges is guaranteed to soothe the soul. Nightly rates at Anantara Emei Resort start from £97 on a bed & breakfast basis for a Deluxe Garden View Room, emei.anantara.com; rooms at The Temple House cost from £204 per night, thetemplehousehotel.com

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& DINING

DRINKING

BY Hannah lemon

The Garden State The Ivy has clung on to popular culture, well, like ivy tends to cling – pretty hard. Before Caprice Holdings acquired the West End venue as its flagship and private members’ club, it had changed hands many times but always remained in favour with its flashy A-list clientele; from Laurence Olivier, Vivien Leigh and Marlene Dietrich of the mid-1900s to Mick Jagger, Madonna, Kate Moss and Brad Pitt in recent years. The Ivy has grown and sprawled across London like its namesake, adding to its collection Chelsea Garden, Market Grill in Covent Garden and Café in Marylebone. With such an esteemed reputation come high expectations.

s l u x u ry l o n d o n . c o. u k s

The high and mighty have been fans for decades I have the pleasure of visiting the latest addition: Kensington Brasserie. Martin Brudnizki Design Studio’s interiors really are the pièce de résistance here. Leather banquettes provide seating areas in the middle of the room separated by a mesh partition that makes me feel like a French secret agent in a film noir. The lighting for this production is on point, with a dulled but kind light glowing on guests through large circular bulbs hanging from the ceiling, while pictures of Greek figures, Victorian etchings and Roman statues relax against the walls. This hotchpotch of European influences is reflected in the menu as well, which offers the usual Ivy specialities such as shepherd’s pie and steak, egg and chips. My first niggle is the size of the

portions – anyone dining at The Ivy is sure to want to enjoy three courses but it frustratingly insists on filling you up with just one. The tuna carpaccio is clean and crisp while the crunchy prawns with wasabi are big enough to have for a main. We follow these starters with whole lemon sole (on the dry side) and mussels and chips. For a spectacle of a desert, opt for the chocolate bomb – the pyrotechnics of salted caramel, milk foam and ice cream are fun to watch – although it is remarkably heavy. Whereas the dairy-free coconut panna cotta with the delightfully light bubbles of Moscato d’Asti is the perfect way to finish the meal. Whether people agree with me as to whether the menu has a few creases to be ironed out is irrelevant – the high and mighty have been fans for many decades and are surely going to remain so for many more. The Ivy Kensington Brasserie, 96 Kensington High Street, W8, theivykensingtonbrasserie.com

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Turn of the Century It’s one thing to find it frustrating when you have to wait for a film to reach your nearest cinema but it’s an entirely different thing when you have to wait a century to see it at all. To celebrate the LOUIS XIII Cognac, the label has filmed a prediction of what the world will be like 100 years from now, to be released in 2115. Starring the mysterious John Malkovich and directed by Robert Rodriguez, 100 Years – The Movie You Will Never See is inspired by the careful craftsmanship and patience it takes to create each decanter of the aromatic spirit. But if you are planning to notify future generations, you will need a ticket and only 1,000 people received exclusive invitations to hand to their descendants. This certainly is a movie of a lifetime. LOUIS XIII is available at Harrods, £1,995 and Fortnum and Mason, £2,200, Hedonism and Selfridges

In It to Gin It Cocktails at Clarendon Beneath the quirky boutique hotel Artist Residence in Pimlico Village, owned by Charlotte and Justin Salisbury, is the equally quirky Clarendon Cocktail Cellar. Bar manager and expert cocktail shaker Stephen Ruse has used painters, printers and pop-artists as inspiration for the drinks list for the new bar. Featuring Andy Warhol’s Campbell’s Soup Cans with bacon bourbon or olive oil vodka, Edvard Munch’s The Scream and Georges Seurat’s A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte, there is enough creative flair here to whet any artist’s whistle in an instant. 52 Cambridge Street, Pimlico, SW1V, clarendoncocktailcellar.co.uk

Passage to Peru The beginning of March sees the owners of Michelinstarred LIMA Fitzrovia and LIMA Floral restaurants bring the taste of Peru to Harrods. The delicatessen will offer walk-ins the option of take-away lunch or dinner on the go with colourful and contemporary dishes. On offer will be salmon and sea bream ceviche, potatoes huancaína (a traditional Peruvian dish from the town of Huancayo), beef or chicken empanadas, and various anticuchos (street food originating from the pre-Columbian era). Harrods, 87–135 Brompton Road, SW1X, harrods.com, limalondon.com

Often called the Queen of the Hebrides, the Scottish island of Islay is commonly known to produce whiskies such as Ardbeg, Laphroaig, Lagavulin and Bowmore. But also in its repertoire is The Botanist, a hand-crafted gin augmented with 22 local herbs and flowers which are foraged responsibly by hand from the hills, shores and bogs. The aroma from the bottle is something entirely different from the usual offerings for an afternoon G&T, with fresh apple, mint and citrus flavours, complemented by the soft Scottish flavours of heather, juniper, lady’s bedstraw and hawthorn. You may be opting for a G without the T before too long. thebotanist.com

DRINKING & DINING

Monday Movie Nights Give yourself a reason to indulge in carefully crafted carbs with a visit to the Rabbit on the King’s Road. Indulge in homemade pasta from the restaurant’s cinema set menu for just £18 before or after a viewing at the Curzon. Accompanied by a side salad and a glass of Nutbourne red wine, which comes directly from the family vineyard in West Sussex, Oliver Gladwin’s comforting creations will warm the cockles. 172 King’s Road, Chelsea, SW3, rabbit-restaurant.com

Try It Out for Size

The Producers The Grill at The Dorchester is welcoming experts in the food field to introduce their produce to guests and host an exclusive dinner. On 25 February The Kernel Brewery will be popping in to showcase pale ales, porters and stouts, while on 28 April Paxton & Whitfield will present its cheeses. The 200-year-old British cheesemonger, which is a proud Royal Warrant holder as appointed by Her Majesty The Queen and HRH The Prince of Wales, is sure to select only the best for local turophiles.

Tiny Leaf is taking over the former site of Bumpkin on Westbourne Park Road until it finds a permanent residence. It claims to be London’s first organic, vegetarian and zero-waste restaurant, turning surplus food sourced from local food suppliers into a guilt-free gastronomic experience. Creating a new niche for the conscientious consumer, chef Justin Horne, general manager Jonathan Krauss (formerly of Chiltern Firehouse) and marketing director Alice Gilsenan will serve up whatever their partners in industry – chains such as Planet Organic and wholesaler Langridge – are able to contribute. Diners can also morph into eco-warriors by taking leftovers home in free ‘bio-boxes’ made from biodegradable vegetable polymers. Situated over four floors, there is a bistro, juice bar, fine-dining restaurant, cinema, events space and botanical cocktail bar. Expect big things from Tiny Leaf. 209 Westbourne Park Road, W11, tinyleaflondon.com

The Grill at The Dorchester, 53 Park Lane, W1K, dorchestercollection.com

Chucs Away You may be familiar with the popular portmanteaus Brangelina, cockapoo and frappuccino but one more to add to the list is fooshion. Chucs restaurant isn’t the first to combine fashion and food (there is 202 on Westbourne Grove) but its take on the combination sounds intriguing nonetheless. Due to open in mid-February, one level will be dedicated to its menswear collection and the garden level will be home to an Italian restaurant and café overseen by Alessandro Verdenelli, executive chef of KX gym. Get ready to sheat (shop and eat?) your heart out. chucsrestaurant.com

s l u x u ry l o n d o n . c o. u k s

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Photography: Dave M Benett/Getty Images Amber Le Bon

Roxie Nafousi, Alice Naylor-Leyland & Rosie Fortescue

Charlotte Olympia Dellal & Alice Naylor-Leyland Lady Kitty Spencer, Alice NaylorLeyland & Amber Atherton

Mary Charteris & Alice Naylor-Leyland

Sabine Getty & Elisabeth von Thurn und Taxis

Photography: Thomas Alexander Photography: Thomas Alexander

Nicky Wilkinson

Katherine Hooker

Harriet Rochester, Gina Harding, Susannah Gill, Elizabeth Peel & Sally Rowley-Williams

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Cara Meehan

Tara Myerscough

Vanessa Palmer & Georgie Island

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LONDON LIVING Photography: Dave M Benett

Sole Purpose WHAT: Mrs Alice for French Sole Launch Party WHEN: 2 February WHERE: Annabel’s, 44 Berkeley Square, W1J WHO: Amber Le Bon, Charlotte Olympia Dellal, Patrick Grant, Candice Lake and Markus Lupfer WHY: Mayfair became a wonderland for the launch party of all-round fashion guru Alice Naylor-Leyland’s collaboration with French Sole. Private members’ club Annabel’s was the venue, and was completely transformed with a floral archway that had shoes from the collection peeping through the blooms, flamingo-lined paths and a leopard lounge. Late Lapin and Queen of Hearts cocktails were provided by Belvedere Vodka, and mini burgers were handed around for hungry mouths.

Charlotte Olympia Dellal

Mat Collishaw & Polly Morgan

Lara Bohinc

Martha Ward

Crème of the Crop WHAT: Crème de la Mer launch of Genaissance de la Mer WHEN: 21 January WHERE: Sexy Fish, Berkeley Square, W1J WHO: Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Yasmin Le Bon, Kelly Hoppen, Daisy Lowe and Polly Morgan WHY: A-listers and brand devotees gathered for a private dinner with Crème de la Mer to celebrate the launch of its luxury serum Genaissance de la Mer. The new product, which has been years in the making, uses rare marine ingredients and state-of-the-art technology in order to provide an exceptional skincare experience. The venue was certainly fitting, as the crowd sat down to eat at seafood restaurant Sexy Fish and chose from a menu that included seared yellowfin tuna and Isle of Mull scallops.

Polly Morgan & Harriet Verney

Richard Jones & Sophie Ellis-Bextor

Kelly Hoppen & Yasmin Le Bon

Olga Kurylenko

Daisy Lowe & Portia Freeman

Darren Kennedy & Vogue Williams

Natasha Oakley

Donna Air

Photography: Dave M Benett

Off to the Races WHAT: Katherine Hooker x Penmayne of London WHEN: 3 February WHERE: Katherine Hooker, 19 Ashburnham Road, Chelsea, SW10 WHO: Camilla Henderson, Gina Harding, Cara Meehan, Katherine Hooker and Claire Howeson WHY: Katherine Hooker and Penmayne of London have come together to produce hat and coat combinations for the Cheltenham Festival in March. They threw a launch party with Gina Harding, the Channel 4 racing presenter, which proved popular with ladies from the equestrian world, such as horse-mad milliner Cara Meehan and amateur jockey Camilla Henderson. While attendees took top tips from Harding, they also participated in a raffle in aid of the Injured Jockey Fund.

Well Heeled WHAT: Manolo Blahnik Store Launch Party WHEN: 2 February WHERE: Manolo Blahnik, Burlington Arcade, W1J WHO: Suzy Menkes, Yasmin Le Bon, Kristine and Evangeline Blahnik and Mary Beard WHY: Mr Blahnik has added another destination to our shopping list by opening up a brand new store in Mayfair. The location in the Burlington Arcade acts as a homage to the designer’s long-term love of traditional England. Many notable figures from the fashion crowd were in attendance, all of whom were eager to see the new collection on the shelves. And to ensure that everyone fell head over heels for the designs, Blahnik was there to sign his soles away.

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Fenton Bailey & Sarah Stanbury

Yasmin Le Bon & Kristina Blahnik

Yasmin Le Bon & Manolo Blahnik

Manolo Blahnik & Suzy Menkes

Kristina Blahnik, Manolo Blahnik & Suzy Menkes

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April Russell Design

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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

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

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

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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

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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

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The Mitre The Portobello Clinic

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

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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

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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

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

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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

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

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

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

Richard Darsa

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

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

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Melt Chocolates

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

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

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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

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

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specialist services

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White Circle Collection

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

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

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

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HOMES showcasing the

finest HOMES & PROPERTY from the best estate agents

Peak Point Why Chelsea will remain one of the most sought-after addresses in London

Image courtesy of Strutt & Parker

Stafford Terrace, Kensington W8 An immaculately presented two bedroom lateral apartment A beautifully presented and elegant apartment spanning two buildings on the second floor of a Victorian conversion which benefits from excellent living and entertaining space. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 reception rooms, kitchen/dining room, utility area. EPC: C. Approximately 126 sq m (1,356 sq ft). Share of freehold

Guide price: £2,500,000

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

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

KnightFrank.co.uk/KEN110124

Stafford Terrace, 11C - K&C Mag - CM

08/02/2016 10:18:25

Carlyle Square, Chelsea SW3 A spectacular house situated on the highly exclusive Carlyle Square This phenomenal house has been rebuilt, extended and refurbished to a level and specification rarely found in Chelsea and is located on the highly sought after northern terrace of Carlyle Square with fabulous views from both front and back over the gardens. 6 double bedroom suites, reception room, kitchen/dining/sitting room, cinema, gym/playroom, private garden, access to garden square. EPC: C. Approximately 473 sq m (5,100 sq ft). Freehold

Guide price: £18,750,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/chelsea chelsea@knightfrank.com 020 3641 5903 KnightFrank.co.uk/knightsbridge knightsbridge@knightfrank.com 020 3641 5913

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KnightFrank.co.uk/CHL150165

K&C March Carlyle Prue

08/02/2016 16:52:39

Ladbroke Gardens, Notting Hill W11 Exceptional period house with parking and access to gardens An impressive semi detached low built wide villa with generous parking and direct access to a stunning communal garden. 5/6 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, shower room, 3 reception rooms, kitchen, dining room, garden, external storage vaults, access to residents' communal gardens, garage. EPC: E Approximately 415.5 sq m (4,472 sq ft). Freehold

Guide price: £10,500,000

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

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

KnightFrank.co.uk/NGH140093

52 Ladbroke Grove K&C March 2016

04/02/2016 13:44:55

Aldridge Road Villas, Notting Hill W11 Charming two bedroom flat A rare opportunity to acquire a spacious and beautifully presented first floor flat located in a handsome period building benefitting from impressive volumes, an abundance of natural light and beautiful period features. 2 bedrooms, bathroom, reception room, kitchen. EPC: D. Approximately 51 sq m (550 sq ft). Leasehold

Guide price: £870,000 KnightFrank.co.uk/NGH160006

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

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

A Cadogan Lane, Belgravia SW1 A highly desirable house bordering Chelsea, Belgravia and Knightsbridge This immaculate four bedroom house is within close proximity of Sloane Square and benefits from an abundance of natural light. Master bedroom (en suite), 3 further bedrooms, bathroom, reception room, kitchen, cloakroom, loft, garden, off street parking and an integral garage. The house qualifies for access to Cadogan Place communal gardens (including tennis courts). EPC: E. Approximately 139 sq (1,502 sq ft). Freehold

Guide price: £3,950,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/knightsbridge knightsbridge@knightfrank.com 020 3641 5913

S a g ( 2 l

F @KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

KnightFrank.co.uk/SLA140287

Kensington and Chelsea March 16- 67 Cadogan Lane

08/02/2016 10:33:54

3338

Albert Terrace, Primrose Hill NW1 Imposing house with Park views

Knightfrank.co.uk/belsizepark belsizepark@knightfrank.com 020 8022 5461

Situated behind a perimeter wall with off street parking for 3 cars and a rear garden. The property is a wide Victorian house presented in good condition with an abundance of volume and light. 6 bedrooms (3 with en suite bathrooms), 3 further bathrooms, 2 dressing rooms, 2 reception rooms, 2 study rooms, studio/games room, family room, lift. EPC: C. Approximately 548.8 sq m (5,907 sq ft). Freehold

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

KnightFrank.co.uk/SJW140195

333849_Vantage_KF_March.indd 1

10/02/2016 11:37

HELPING YOU MOVE FORWARD IN 2016 To find out how we can help you or to arrange your complimentary market appraisal please contact us: KnightFrank.co.uk/southkensington southkensington@knightfrank.com 020 3641 6122

Guide price: £4,750,000

Gledhow Gardens, Earl's Court SW5

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Beautifully presented ground and lower floor apartment with bespoke features and south west facing front aspect reception room and large family kitchen leading out on to a terrace and communal gardens. 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, reception room, kitchen, patio, roof terrace, communal garden. EPC: D. Leasehold 146 years. Approximately 211.4 sq m (2,276 sq ft). southkensington@knightfrank.com Office: 020 3641 6122

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

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

Guide price: £6,500,000

Queen's Gate Place, South Kensington SW7 With adaptable voluminous rooms to suit any type of living, this property has high ceilings and French windows leading to a balcony. 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, reception room, roof terrace, communal garden. EPC: D. Share of freehold. Approximately 280 sq m (3,014sq ft). southkensington@knightfrank.com Office: 020 3641 6122

K&C Mag - MARCH EDITION

04/02/2016 09:45:26

Stafford Terrace, Kensington W8 A recently refurbished three bedroom maisonette This property benefits from a wonderful reception room, with high ceilings, wooden floors and working fireplaces, which leads on to a stunning south facing terrace and garden. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 reception rooms, kitchen, terrace and patio garden. EPC: C. Approximately 175.05 sq m (1,884 sq ft). Available furnished or unfurnished

Guide price: £2,750 per week

KnightFrank.co.uk/kensington kens@knightfrank.com 020 7938 4311

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

KnightFrank.co.uk/KEQ232012

K&C Mag - Stafford Terrace

08/02/2016 12:26:26

Wellington Square, Chelsea SW3 Elegant four bedroom house in popular garden square This west facing town house benefits from spacious family accommodation, a pretty rear garden and a large roof terrace. Wellington Square is ideally situated just off the Kings Road, close to all the amenities and shops of Kings Road and Sloane Street. 4 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, 3 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, garden, roof terrace. EPC: D. Approximately 243 sq m (2,623 sq ft). Available unfurnished

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

Guide price: £3,950 per week KnightFrank.co.uk/KNQ142979 All potential tenants should be advised that as well as rent, an administration fee of £276 and referencing fees of £48 per person will apply when renting a property. Please ask us for more information about other fees that may apply or visit KnightFrank.co.uk/tenantcharges

K&C - March 2016

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

08/02/2016 16:39:09

PROPERTY

On the Right Track Knight Frank’s Chelsea office releases research that shows the area moving back into the spotlight thanks to improving infrastructure, a resurgent UK economy and a narrowing price gap with other London markets

Price changes over the past three years to October 2015:

Red = greatest price increase Blue = lowest price increase

Demand in Chelsea is likely to grow as it remains a popular residential neighbourhood

Chelsea has, up until recently, faced a challenging market, however, with more realistic asking prices momentum is beginning to build. The area has begun to find its feet in a market parallel with the UK economy. Prime central London (PCL) prices rose by 69% between 2009 and 2015 as the area cemented its reputation as a safe haven following the financial crash. In this time, growth in Chelsea underperformed the average and an increase of 58% reflected a more restrained mood in the financial sector despite the fact that the area was a popular destination for Italian and French buyers due to economic instability in the eurozone. This decline in activity has been influenced by changing demand. Chelsea, particularly in the west, is predominantly a house market, meaning price growth has not matched more central areas such as Knightsbridge and Mayfair, where demand has been driven by buyers looking for high-quality new-build or newly refurbished apartments. In the five years to December 2015, flat prices in PCL rose 44%, compared to 30% for houses. The decline in sales volume has been more marked in the higher price brackets, and in the £10 million-plus super prime market Chelsea accounted for 3% of all London deals in 2015, down from 10% in 2012. However, recent signs of greater momentum have emerged as vendors are adjusting asking prices to reflect the more subdued state of demand. There are also strong grounds for optimism as other London markets close the price gap with Chelsea. Price growth in Chelsea has been overtaken by areas such as Marylebone, Hyde Park and South Bank since 2013 as buyers seek better value. As prices north of Hyde Park and south of the River Thames catch up, demand in Chelsea is likely to grow as it remains a popular residential neighbourhood, whose appeal is also reinforced by its improving transport links. A resurgent UK economy, major infrastructure plans and the narrowing price gap versus other areas of PCL mean the groundwork is laid for the revival of the residential market as Chelsea moves back into the spotlight. Knight Frank Chelsea, 352a King’s Road, SW3 5UU, 020 3740 1571, knightfrank.co.uk

s l u x u ry l o n d o n . c o. u k s

113

Whether small or tall Move with Savills

CHELSEA

Guide £2.35 million

CHELTENHAM TERRACE SW3 1,228 sq ft 3 1 2 EPC=D

CHELSEA

Guide £795,000

SOUTH KENSINGTON

Guide £1.95 million

GILSTON ROAD SW10 1 1 1

576 sq ft EPC=C

CRANLEY GARDENS SW7 2 1 3

1,120 sq ft EPC=D

6428|A K&C 'Small or Tall' Sales DPS 1 ART.indd 1

08/02/2016 09:47

6428

Call us 7 days a week on 020 7877 4640 savills.co.uk

CLASSIC FAMILY HOME IN THE HEART OF CHELSEA

09:47

Price on application

PAULTONS SQUARE SW3 3 2 4

2,192 sq ft EPC=D

NOTTING HILL

Guide £1.895 million

KNIGHTSBRIDGE

Guide £1.795 million

CAMPDEN HILL ROAD W14 2 1 2

1,100 sq ft EPC=E

PONT STREET SW1 2 1 2

1,250 sq ft EPC=C

6428|A K&C 'Small or Tall' Sales DPS 1 ART.indd 2

08/02/2016 09:48

Call us 7 days a week on 020 7877 4640 savills.co.uk

KENSINGTON

Guide £1.2 million

KENSINGTON

Guide £2.25 million

KENSINGTON CT GDNS W8 2 1 1

790 sq ft EPC=E

WYCOMBE SQUARE W8 2 1 2

984 sq ft EPC=C

NOTTING HILL

Guide £2.5 million

KENSINGTON

Guide £1.55 million

ARTESIAN ROAD W2 2 2 2

1,504 sq ft EPC=D

LAURIE HOUSE W8 2 1 2

950 sq ft EPC=D

6428|B K&C 'Small or Tall' Sales DPS 2 ART.indd 1

08/02/2016 09:50

6428

IMPRESSIVE HOUSE WITH DIRECT ACCESS TO COMMUNAL GARDEN

LADBROKE GROVE W11 6 4 4

4,472 sq ft EPC=E

LATERAL APARTMENT ACROSS TWO BUILDINGS WITH WESTERLY ASPECT

KENSINGTON CT GDENS W8 5 3 2

09:50

6428|B K&C 'Small or Tall' Sales DPS 2 ART.indd 2

3,313 sq ft EPC=C

Guide £10.5 million

Guide £5.75 million

08/02/2016 09:51

Call us 7 days a week on 020 7877 4640 savills.co.uk

KENSINGTON

Guide £4.25 million

KENSINGTON

Guide £2.9 million

DRAYSON MEWS W8 4 2 3

2,793 sq ft EPC=D

LOGAN MEWS W8 4 1 3

1,735 sq ft EPC=C

MARYLEBONE

Guide £4.95 million

HOLLAND PARK

Guide £3.6 million

DUKES MEWS W1 4 2 3

2,670 sq ft EPC=B

BOYNE TERRACE MEWS W11 2,027 sq ft 3 2 3 EPC=B

6428|C K&C 'Small or Tall' Mews Sales DPS 3 ART.indd 1

08/02/2016 09:53

6428

EXCELLENT REINVENTION OF A MEWS HOUSE

CORNWALL MEWS WEST SW7 2,216 sq ft 3 2 3 EPC=E

GRADE II LISTED FORMER HOME OF LEADING MASTER BUILDER THOMAS CUBITT

LYALL MEWS WEST SW1X 3 2 2

09:53

6428|C K&C 'Small or Tall' Mews Sales DPS 3 ART.indd 2

2,346 sq ft EPC EXEMPT

Guide £6.05 million

2 reception rooms | kitchen/dining room | 3 bedrooms 2 bathrooms | steam room

08/02/2016 09:53

Call us 7 days a week on 020 7877 4640 savills.co.uk

CHELSEA

£750 pw + fees apply*

NOTTING HILL

£575 pw + fees apply*

GILSTON ROAD SW10 1 1 1

618 sq ft EPC=C

QUEENS GARDENS W2 1 1 1

706 sq ft EPC=D

KENSINGTON

£900 pw + fees apply*

KENSINGTON

£910 pw + fees apply*

THE OLD BARRACKS W8 2 1 2

1,154 sq ft EPC=D

HOLLAND PARK W11 2 1 1

756 sq ft EPC=D

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

6428|D K&C 'Small or Tall' Lettings DPS 4 ART.indd 1

08/02/2016 09:56

6428

BEAUTIFUL LOW BUILT FAMILY HOUSE SPREAD OVER THREE FLOORS

ILCHESTER PLACE W14 6 4 4

4,448 sq ft EPC=E

7 bedrooms | 4 bathrooms | 4 reception rooms | laundry room with storage

STUNNING NEWLY RENOVATED APARTMENT ON THE SIXTH FLOOR

LANCELOT PLACE SW7 3 2 3

09:56

6428|D K&C 'Small or Tall' Lettings DPS 4 ART.indd 2

2,239 sq ft EPC=C

£5,650 pw + fees apply*

£4,950 pw + fees apply*

08/02/2016 09:56

Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk

Kensington Court, W8 £775 per week Furnished (charges apply)* A newly decorated two bedroom two bathroom duplex apartment well located moments from Kensington High Street. Benefiting from a pretty patio garden and the upper floor boasts excellent light and natural wood flooring. (860 sq ft / 79.9 sq m). EPC: E

Iverna Court, W8 £2,300 per week Furnished/Unfurnished A stunning completely refurbished four bedroom apartment on the 4th floor (with lift) of this well maintained portered redbrick mansion block in Kensington. Benefiting from four bathrooms and a large new kitchen. (1,885 sq ft / 171.5 sq m). EPC: D

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

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

Hollywood Road, SW10 Four bedroom family house situated in Hollywood Road, SW10. The house comprises a fabulous 39’3 reception room with a conservatory area leading out to a private garden. On the lower ground floor is the modern fully fitted kitchen and dining/breakfast room as well as the utility room. Master bedroom with ensuite, three further bedrooms and two family bathrooms. EPC: C *Tenant Charges Tenants should note that as well as rent, an administration charge of £216 (Inc. VAT) per property and a referencing charge of £54 (Inc. VAT) per person will apply when renting a property. Please ask us for more information about other fees that may apply or visit www.hamptons.co.uk/rent/tenant-charges

Hamptons Chelsea Office Sales. 020 7717 5431 | Lettings. 0207 3700 774

£1950 Per Week • • • • •

Four Bedrooms Two Bathrooms Private Garden Conservatory Study

(charges apply)*

Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk

Hans Place, SW1X This newly refurbished apartment has been finished to exacting detail providing a wealth of natural light and finished in a contemporary style. The apartment is situated on the top floor of this red brick period building providing views over the communal gardens. EPC: E

£795 per week, Furnished charges apply)* • • • • • •

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

Two bedrooms Two bathrooms Communal Gardens Recently Refurbished Wealth of Natural Light Permit Parking

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

primeresi.com

Peak Point Lily Terrell explains why Chelsea remains one of the most sought-after and prestigious areas in which to live in London

The property market

Tumble Down Average prices per square foot across prime central London were down -3.7% at the end of 2015, according to the latest figures from LonRes. All in all, 2015 was a “rather muted” year in the PCL market, said the firm, due to stamp duty reform, currency movements and tax changes to non-doms having sobered up the market in a big way. Although the average decline in per square foot values over the fourth quarter was only -0.4%, prices in the worst-affected £5m+ range fell by -8.6% between Q4 2014 and Q4 2015 – a stark contrast to the +7.8% rise recorded in the sub-£1m bracket (the only price range to have posted an increase).

“It should be remembered that the market in Q4 2014 was affected by the change in stamp duty” - LonRes Meanwhile, sales volumes carried on free-falling. There were 22% fewer transactions recorded in Q4 2015 than in the fourth quarter of 2014, meaning that sales over 2015, as a whole, were 21% lower than in the previous year. Mind-blowing as it may be, the 53.5% plunge in sales above £5m+ should, however, be taken within the context of what happened in Q4 2014: “It should be remembered that the market in Q4 2014 was affected by the surprise change in stamp duty and many buyers at the very top end of the market rushed to buy in the first days of December 2014,” said LonRes, “which pushed up sales rates in the final quarter of that year.” Beyond the centre, Greater London saw prices soar by 12.4% during 2015, according to Land Registry data, in part thanks to a +2.1% increase in December (the biggest monthly increase of any region). That compares to a national average property price rise across England and Wales of 6.4% through the year.

s l u x u ry l o n d o n . c o. u k s

in Chelsea has reached its peak. Despite the challenges set by the government last year, the Royal Borough has kept its high standards and reputation. For a long time, I believed that areas outside prime central London (PCL), such as Fulham, Wandsworth and Battersea, would exceed the price level of areas such as Chelsea or Holland Park. My reasoning came from the steady and high increase in prices in non-PCL in comparison to the lack of increase in prices and sales within PCL. Last year, there were 30% to 50% fewer transactions in central London than in the previous year. This is not to say that the value of properties has gone down, but if there are any time constraints in selling a property in Chelsea, the only way would be to sell below market value due to the lack of demand.

Buyers will decide whether they want to live in a place with the potential to make a higher profit or live within the safe and steady walls of Chelsea My more recent thoughts are that the market is simply readjusting after the influx of price levels in Chelsea in comparison to its neighbouring boroughs. Once the gap in price levels between Zones 1 and 2 becomes slimmer, the Chelsea property market should begin to kick off once again. Currently people aren’t buying in PCL because the most profit is to be made in newly developed areas such as Battersea that haven’t yet reached their ultimate price point. Soon enough, buyers will decide whether they want to live in a place with the potential to make a higher profit or live within the safe and steady walls of Chelsea, where its reputation is unquestioned and the market is more stable. There will inevitably be some more challenges along the way for areas such as Chelsea for as long as the government tries to make the rich poorer and the poor richer, but there is no other place like it in the world. With the most beautiful buildings and direct access to the best shops and restaurants in the capital, Chelsea should always remain at the top of the London property market. Carter Jonas LLP, One Chapel Place, WIG OBG; carterjonas.co.uk

125

A UNIQUE PERSPECTIVE ON...

CORNWALL GARDENS, SW7 ÂŁ1,750,000 Share of Freehold An exceptionally light and bright three bedroom flat on the second floor (with a lift) of this well maintained Grade II listed period conversion that is located at the preferred quiet western end of this popular garden square. This charming flat is presented in good order throughout and extends to 865sq/ft (80 sq/m) of well arranged and proportioned accommodation. Entrance Hall | Reception Room | Kitchen | Three Bedrooms | Large Shower Room | Guest WC | Access to Communal Gardens (STUCC) | Approx 865 Sq/ft (80.36 Sq/m) | Council Tax Band F | EPC: C

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

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BUYING RENTING AND SELLING HOMES.

ONSLOW GARDENS, SW7 £595 Per Week £2,578.33 Per Month A beautifully presented one bedroom property, situated on the raised ground floor of this delightful period building.

SOUTH KENSINGTON | 020 7370 6767 lettings.southken@winkworth.co.uk

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OFFICES IN LONDON, THE COUNTRY AND OVERSEAS. SEE THINGS DIFFERENTLY

A UNIQUE PERSPECTIVE ON...

BLITHFIELD STREET, LONDON, W8 £2,750,000 FREEHOLD An attractive four bedroom Victorian house (1782 sq ft/ 165 sq m) situated quietly at the end of a charming cherry tree lined cul-de-sac. The ground floor has a 26’ reception room with square arch through to a kitchen/dining room which leads to the patio garden. The principal bedroom suite occupies the first floor. There are three further bedrooms and two further bath/shower rooms.

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

winkworth.co.uk/knightsbridge-chelsea

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BUYING RENTING AND SELLING HOMES.

MELBURY COURT, LONDON W8 ÂŁ4,750,000 LEASEHOLD An exceptional lateral five bedroom apartment (2700 sq ft/250 sq m) situated on the top floor (with lift) of this prestigious portered block with secure parking. This beautiful fifth floor apartment has long views over the roof tops of Kensington and excellent entertaining space with two large interconnecting reception rooms, a well-equipped kitchen/dining room and study. The five double bedrooms have ample wardrobe space. There is also a large storage room in the basement. Entrance Hall | Two Reception Rooms | Study | Kitchen/Dining Room | Five Bedrooms | Two Bathrooms | Cloakroom | 24 Hour Porterage | Separate Storage | Parking | EPC: E

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

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DURHAM TERRACE, W2 ÂŁ1,550,000 LEASEHOLD A stunning, contemporary two bedroom two bathroom apartment, the results of a well thought through refurbishment programme, providing extensive and exceptionally well arranged open living space, flooded with light throughout in this pretty, peaceful spot.

2 Bedrooms | 1 Reception Room | 2 Bathrooms | 969 sq ft

NOTTING HILL | 020 7727 3227 nottinghill@winkworth.co.uk

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BUYING RENTING AND SELLING HOMES.

PEMBRIDGE VILLAS, W11 ÂŁ1,895,000 Not one, but two simply amazing gardens, with a pretty fantastic apartment also. This exceptional two bedroom property is essentially ground floor level and has been entirely refurbished by its current owner both inside and out. It features some of the finest garden spaces in the area, making it the perfect home for both indoor and outdoor entertaining.

NOTTING HILL | 020 7727 3227 nottinghill@winkworth.co.uk

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LAWRENCE STREET, SW3 ÂŁPOA A luxurious development by Parsons Green Land Ltd of the famous Cross Keys Public House, in this stunning Old Chelsea location. Arranged over four floors, the building is constructed in a Queen Anne style, with high ceilings throughout and a sense of light and space to each apartment. A comprehensive redevelopment of the upper floors has been completed by the Developer to create 4 bespoke flats, with particular attention having been employed to the fixtures and fittings.

Leasehold | Each Flat has 2 Bedrooms and 2 Bathrooms | 776 -950 Approx Sq ft | EPC C

KNIGHTSBRIDGE | 020 7589 6616 knightsbridge@winkworth.co.uk

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PONT STREET, SW1X £925 PER WEEK A fantastic opportunity to rent this professionally managed 2 bedroom bright lateral apartment on the 3rd floor (lift) of a well located building in Knightsbridge with a porter. Two Bedrooms | 1 Reception room | 1 Bathroom | Period Flat | Lift | Furnished | 821 Approx Sq ft.

KNIGHTSBRIDGE | 020 7589 6616 knightsbridge@winkworth.co.uk

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OFFICES IN LONDON, THE COUNTRY AND OVERSEAS. SEE THINGS DIFFERENTLY

IMPOS

SSIBLE We don’t want to be part of the pack.

Why should selling or buying a property be formulaic or even torture? We’re not different for difference sake. We do business differently to get great results which is why we’re statistically so effective at selling and buying in our particular patch. Give us a call today and find out how.

020 7221 1117 www.crayson.com

10 Lambton Place London W11 2SH

St Stephens Mews Notting Hill W2 This off-the-beaten-track treasure wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stay a secret for long... A deceptively large house with exceptional living space tucked away in this pretty cobbled Notting Hill mews.

020 7221 1117 www.crayson.com

10 Lambton Place London W11 2SH

Reception/kitchen/dining area Master bedroom suite Two further bedrooms Two further bathrooms Media room/gym Cloakroom Utility room Garden Garage 2,614 sq ft/ 242.84 sq m City of Westminster EPC rating band C Sole Agent Freehold Guide Price ÂŁ3.75 million

hello@crayson.com T 020 7221 1117 10 Lambton Place London W11 2SH

Elgin Crescent Notting Hill W11 Notting Hill duplex with epic views and loads of space to crash... This flat is definitely party central, with huge entertaining space in the triple-aspect reception room and access to beautiful communal gardens, it is young-professional heaven.

020 7221 1117 www.crayson.com

10 Lambton Place London W11 2SH

Reception/dining room Kitchen Three bedrooms Three bathrooms Ample storage space Access to communal gardens 1,659 sq ft/ 154.10 sq m Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea EPC rating band E Share of Freehold Guide Price ÂŁ2.4 million

Viscount Court Notting Hill W2 This is luxury first flat/pied a terre territory â&#x20AC;&#x201C; high enough for peace, and dead handy...

Reception/kitchen/dining area Master bedroom suite One further en-suite bedroom 793 sq ft/ 73.7 sq m Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea EPC rating band D Leasehold Guide Price ÂŁ1.325 million

020 7221 1117 www.crayson.com

10 Lambton Place London W11 2SH

Chepstow Road Notting Hill W2 Embrace the freedom of the single state in this delightful maisonette at the cooler end of Notting Hill...

Reception room Kitchen Master bedroom One further bedroom Bathroom Balcony 914 sq ft/ 84.91 sq m City of Westminster EPC rating band E Leasehold Guide Price ÂŁ1.3 million

020 7221 1117 www.crayson.com

10 Lambton Place London W11 2SH

WESTBOURNE WESTBOURNE GARDENS, GARDENS, W2W2 WESTBOURNE WESTBOURNEGARDENS, GARDENS,W2 W2

£2,495,000 £2,495,000 £2,495,000 £2,495,000

Share Share of freehold of freehold Share Share ofof freehold freehold A sensational A sensational three-bedroom three-bedroom maisonette, maisonette, A beautifully A sensational sensational three-bedroom three-bedroom maisonette, maisonette, beautifully designed designed andand in keeping in keeping withwith the the beautifully beautifully designed designed and and in in keeping keeping with with thethe original original features. features. original original features. features. ThisThis gorgeous gorgeous home home offers offers a wealth a wealth of of This This gorgeous gorgeous home offers offers a wealth a wealth ofof entertaining entertaining andhome and living living space. space. entertaining entertaining and and living living space. space. – –Bright Bright reception reception room room Bright Bright reception reception room – – ––Modern Modern kitchen kitchen / dining /room dining room room Modern Modern kitchen kitchen / dining /with dining room room – – ––Master Master bedroom bedroom with en suite en suite – – Master Master bedroom bedroom with with en en suite suite – –OneOne further further double double bedroom bedroom One One further further double bedroom bedroom – – ––Third Third bedroom bedroom /double study / study – – Third Third bedroom bedroom / study / study – –Guest Guest bathroom bathroom Guest Guest bathroom bathroom – – ––Private Private patio patio garden garden – – Private Private patio patio garden garden – –CityCity of Westminster of Westminster – – City City of of Westminster Westminster – –Interior Interior designer: designer: Different Different LikeLike A Zoo A Zoo Interior Interior designer: designer: Different Like Like A A Zoo Zoo – – ––Approx Approx 1,580 1,580 sq ft. sq/Different ft. 147 / 147 sq m. sq EPC=E m. EPC=E – – Approx Approx 1,580 1,580 sqsq ft.ft. / 147 / 147 sqsq m.m. EPC=E EPC=E

Domus Domus Nova Nova Bayswater Bayswater Domus DomusNova NovaBayswater Bayswater

78 78 Westbourne Westbourne Grove Grove W2W2 5RT5RT 7878Westbourne WestbourneGrove GroveW2 W25RT 5RT 0207 0207 221221 78177817 bayswater@domusnova.com bayswater@domusnova.com 0207 0207 221 221 7817 7817bayswater@domusnova.com bayswater@domusnova.com

K+C Mag K+C -Mag Mar-2016.indd Mar 2016.indd 26-2726-27 K+C K+C MagMag - Mar - Mar 2016.indd 2016.indd 26-27 26-27

REDE PLACE, W2

£7,000,000 Freehold

An incredible interpretation of a modern mews house designed by Guy Stansfeld and recently finished by Maddux Creative. This fastidiously created three bedroom home offers phenomenal lateral space over all floors and is remarkably well finished throughout. – – – – – – – –

Reception room with adjoining kitchen Top-floor media area onto roof garden Master bedroom suite with dressing area and en suite Two guest rooms with en-suite bathrooms Dedicated Eurocave cellar room Double garage Interior designer: Maddux Creative Approx 3,177 sq ft. / 295.2 sq m. EPC=C

10/02/2016 12:52:57

LADBROKE GROVE, W11

£6,950,000 Freehold

An exceptional new home created and built by Landmass London. This impressive five-bedroom contemporary house has been expertly designed and finished to an outstanding level. – – – – – – – – –

Ground-floor reception room Kitchen / dining area with secondary reception space onto patio garden First floor master bedroom suite with stunning bathroom and dressing room Three guest bedrooms with bathrooms Gym / bedroom five with en suite Dedicated media room Walled patio garden Integral garage with electric car charging Approx. 3,280 sq ft / 304.7 sq m. EPC=B

Domus Nova Notting Hill 17 Kensington Park Road W11 2EU 0207 727 1717 nottinghill@domusnova.com

K+C Mag - Mar 2016.indd 28-29

QUEEN’S GARDENS, W2

£3,750,000

Share of freehold A beautifully executed and extensively refurbished three-bedroom duplex, marrying traditional proportions and features with refined contemporary detail. Queen’s Gardens is situated on one of the area’s most desirable private garden squares, near Hyde Park and the Italian Gardens. – – – – – – – – –

33 ft reception with original detailing Superb contemporary eat-in kitchen Master bedroom with en suite Two guest bedrooms with en suites Grand private entrance Private enclosed patio area Access to communal gardens City of Westminster Approx. 2,175 sq ft / 202 sq m. EPC=D

10/02/2016 12:53:09

LADBROKE ROAD, W11

£2,500 per week – admin fees apply* Long let Modern decor and period features combine to create relaxed living at this spacious home complete with a private garden and terrace. Situated in Notting Hill, Ladbroke Road is close to many amenities and transport links including Notting Hill Gate station. – – – – – – – – – –

Double reception room Spacious kitchen / breakfast room Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom Walk-in wardrobe Three further double bedrooms Three bathrooms Private garden and terrace Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea Approx. 2,019 sq ft / 188 sq m. EPC=E * domusnova.com/administrationfees

Domus Nova Bayswater 78 Westbourne Grove W2 5RT 0207 221 7817 bayswater@domusnova.com

K+C Mag - Mar 2016.indd 30-31

CORNWALL CRESCENT, W11

£2,500 per week – admin fees apply* Short let

Extensively remodelled and refurbished, this charismatic home offers a variety engaging spaces and plenty of natural light. Cornwall Crescent is located near to the excellent bars, restaurants and boutiques on Portobello Road and Westbourne Grove. – – – – – – – – –

Spacious first-floor reception room Contemporary kitchen Dedicated dining area Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom Three additional bedrooms Private terrace Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea Approx. 2,169 sq ft / 202 sq m. EPC=D * domusnova.com/administrationfees

10/02/2016 12:53:33

carterjonas.co.uk

HASKER STREET Chelsea SW3

The property consists of a large reception room with wooden floors leading onto a decked terrace. The family kitchen/ dining room is found on the lower ground floor and offers a perfect space for entertaining. 2 reception rooms • 3 bedrooms 3 bathrooms • Garden • EPC rating F

Guide price £3,800,000

Knightsbridge and Chelsea 020 7584 7020 amy.rogers@carterjonas.co.uk

SLOANE AVENUE Chelsea SW3

Meticulously refurbished, this bright apartment situated on the ground floor gives a fantastic feeling of space and proportion. The apartment fits a multitude of uses such as a Pied a Terre, investment or a first home. Reception room • Bedroom Bathroom • Ground floor apartment EPC rating D

Guide price £675,000

Knightsbridge and Chelsea 020 7584 7020 amy.rogers@carterjonas.co.uk

carterjonas.co.uk

KENSINGTON GATE Kensington W8

An imposing Grade II* listed semi-detached house situated in an enviable position in this highly sought-after garden square, with the rare benefit of a lift. It has a particularly handsome white stucco facade and extends to approximately 4,952 sq ft over five floors. 4 reception rooms • 6 bedrooms 3 bathrooms • Balcony • Paved garden Communal garden

Guide price £10,950,000

Holland Park & Notting Hill 020 7371 1111 gareth.jones@carterjonas.co.uk

carterjonas.co.uk

BEAUCHAMP PLACE

CROMWELL ROAD

Chelsea SW3

South Kensington SW7

A brand new refurbished split-level maisonette with high ceilings and plenty of natural light.

A brand new refurbished property with plenty of natural light. The property is located on the raised ground floor in a vibrant location.

Reception room • 2 bedrooms • Bathroom • EPC rating D

Reception room • 3 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms • EPC rating D

£795 per week*/£3,445 per month*

£800 per week*/£3,467 per month*

Knightsbridge & Chelsea

020 7584 7020 | sadia.russell@carterjonas.co.uk

GLEDHOW GARDENS

LEXHAM GARDENS

South Kensington SW5

Kensington W8

A larger than average apartment in the heart of South Kensington. The property benefits from wooden flooring throughout and has access to the communal gardens. Closet tube station is Gloucester road.

The apartment comprises two bedrooms and two bathrooms one of which is an en suite shower room. The reception room has high ceilings as expected within a period building.

Reception room • 3 bedrooms • 3 bathrooms • EPC rating E

£1,295 per week*/£7,267 per month* Knightsbridge & Chelsea

020 7584 7020 | sadia.russell@carterjonas.co.uk

Reception room • 2 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms EPC rating D

£850 per week*/£3,683 per month* Knightsbridge & Chelsea

020 7584 7020 | sadia.russell@carterjonas.co.uk

Rent excludes reference and tenancy paperwork fees. Please contact our branch who can provide this information.

HOLLANDGREEN PLACE

SOUTHWICK STREET

Kensington W8

Hyde Park Estate W2

A brand new apartment set within the extremely desirable and exclusive Holland Green Development.

A contemporary apartment set in a popular portered development on the prestigious Hyde Park Estate.

Reception room • 3 bedrooms • 3 bathrooms • Kitchen Underground parking • Swimming pool & gym • EPC rating C

Reception room • 2 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms • Kitchen Access to communal gardens • EPC rating D

£625 per week*/£2,708.33 per month*

£3,500 per week*/£15,166.67 per month* Holland Park & Notting Hill

Holland Park & Notting Hill

MELBURY ROAD

SUSSEX MEWS WEST

Holland Park W14

Hyde Park Estate W2

A unique studio house arranged over three floors providing flexible family accommodation and superb entertaining space.

A modern and contemporary mews house set on a quiet cobbled mews near Hyde Park and Lancaster Gate.

2 reception rooms • 5 bedrooms • 4 bathrooms • Kitchen Garden • EPC rating F

Open-plan reception room/kitchen • 2 bedrooms 2 bathrooms • EPC rating D

£2,500 per week*/£10,833.33 per month*

£850 per week*/£3,683.33 per month*

Holland Park & Notting Hill

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

“

A S K T H E

We want our home to go to someone who’ll love it as much as we do

”

F O R W O R L D

Call 020 3811 2679 to arrange a valuation Happy Easter to all our friends and clients across the world. Sales | Lettings | Property Management jll.co.uk/resi

JLL-WAEllis_Runwild-Easter_Advert-Feb-2016.indd 1

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LADBROKE SQUARE, NOTTING HILL W11 ● ● ● ●

5/6 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms 3/4 Reception rooms Kitchen

● ● ● ●

Garden Extensive communal gardens Approx. 4,953 sq ft (460 sq m) EPC: D

Price on application Freehold For more information, call Giles Cook 020 3811 2679 or email gcook@waellis.com JSA Kay & Co 020 7262 2030

174 Brompton Road London SW3 1HP

waellis.com

ANSDELL TERRACE, KENSINGTON W8 ● ● ● ●

5 Double bedrooms 4 Bathrooms Double reception room Kitchen / dining room

● ● ● ●

Roof terrace Courtyard garden Approx. 2,228 sq ft (207 sq m) EPC: current (E) potential (E)

Price £3,250 per week Unfurnished For more information, call Kerry Morley 020 3813 5978 or email kmorley@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

TRINITY HOUSE, KENSINGTON W14 ● ● ● ●

3 Double bedrooms 2 Bathrooms Open plan living room Private balcony

● ● ● ●

Resident only leisure facilities 24 Hour concierge Approx. 1,140 sq ft (106 sq m) EPC: B

Price £1,650 per week Furnished For more information, call Ken Dowling 020 3811 2395 or email kensington.lets@eu.jll.com

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

387 Kensington High Street London W14 8QH

jll.co.uk/residential

A modern apartment boasting high ceilings throughout Matching people and property in London for 160 years.

Rutland RutlandHouse HouseW8 W8£4,350,000 £4,350,000 AA superb superb four-bedroom four-bedroom family family apartment apartment that that has has undergone undergone aa full full refurbishment, refurbishment, situated situated onon Marloes Marloes Road Road and and within within walking walking distance distance toto Kensington Kensington High High Street. Street. Share Share ofof Freehold. Freehold. EPC=D EPC=D Four bedrooms bedrooms Beautifully refurbished refurbished lateral lateral apartment apartment Two balconies, balconies, liftlift && porter porter Prime location location • •Four • •Beautifully • •Two • •Prime

Kensington KensingtonSales: Sales:020 0207368 73684450 4450sales.kns@marshandparsons.co.uk sales.kns@marshandparsons.co.uk

All Saints Road W11 £2,000,000 A beautifully presented two-bedroom apartment, benefitting from its own private entrance and boasting high ceilings throughout, located in the heart of Notting Hill. Freehold. EPC=D

• Two bedrooms • Generous open-plan living space • Private rear garden • Excellent condition throughout South Kensington Sales: 020 7590 0800 sales.skn@marshandparsons.co.uk

Dunworth Mews W11 £1,850,000 An exceptional two-bedroom mews house, wonderfully located on a quiet cobbled street, just off the world-renowned Portobello Road, and close to Westbourne Grove. Freehold. EPC=E

• Two bedrooms • Excellent condition throughout • Westerly aspect • Prime location Notting Hill Sales: 020 7313 2890 sales.not@marshandparsons.co.uk

Magnolia Lodge, Kensington Green

Kensington W8

leasehold

A 3 bedroom 1st floor apartment (with lift), benefiting from 2 underground parking spaces in the exclusive Kensington Green, a quiet & secure gated development with 24hr porterage & a fully equipped on-site gym. The accommodation comprises a spacious dual aspect reception room with dining area, a separate fully fitted kitchen with new Miele appliances, 2 double bedrooms (including master en-suite), a further bedroom & a family bathroom. EPC rating C

Kensington

020 7937 7244

sales.kensington@chestertons.com

ÂŁ2,995,000

chestertons.com

Kensington Court Place

Kensington W8

A completely rebuilt family house which has retained its original Georgian facade, situated in a prime Kensington location. Arranged over 4 floors, the accommodation comprises a spacious double reception room & an Italian kitchen with integrated De Dietrich appliances, Corian worktops & a central island unit with an induction hob. There is a master bedroom suite with dressing area, 3 further double bedrooms, a bathroom, utility room & a fabulous decked roof terrace. EPC rating D

Kensington

020 7937 7244

sales.kensington@chestertons.com

ÂŁ3,995,000 freehold

Coleherne Court, The Little Boltons

Chelsea SW5

share of freehold

A very rare & hugely desirable 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment, ideally situated on the 3rd floor of Coleherne Court on The Little Boltons. The apartment benefits from breathtaking, uninterrupted westerly views from each of the principle rooms, over the beautifully manicured residentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; garden. EPC rating D

Chelsea

020 7594 4740

sales.chelsea@chestertons.com

ÂŁ2,950,000

chestertons.com

Walpole Street

Chelsea SW3

A charming & incredibly bright classic Chelsea period town house, situated to the south of the Kings Road. This 4 bedroom family home offers flexible living with a self-contained 1 bedroom apartment on the lower floor. EPC rating E

Chelsea

020 7594 4740

sales.chelsea@chestertons.com

ÂŁ5,350,000 freehold

ABBOTSBURY ROAD, HOLLAND PARK, W14

Freehold for Sale – £3,500,000

Situated opposite the gates of Holland Park, a charming family house with a pretty rear garden and off street parking for several cars. The property offers excellent family living on three floors. The accommodation is well laid out and comprises large entrance hall, reception room, dining room, kitchen, study, 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and guest’s cloakroom.

HOLLAND PARK AVENUE, LONDON, W11

Leasehold for Sale - £850,000

A delightful second floor flat in this handsome Grade II* Listed building. The flat extends to 632 sq.ft. and offers spacious living accommodation. The bedroom to the rear of the property is wonderfully light and has views over the neighbouring gardens. Holland Park Avenue benefits from first class shopping and transport facilities and the Westfield complex is within a few minutes walk.

CLARENDON ROAD, HOLLAND PARK, W11

Freehold for Sale - £5,500,000

A comprehensively refurbished and very bright semi-detached family home with lovely views to the rear over the private 43 ft garden. The house has real character is stucco fronted and Grade II Listed. It offers excellent family living with a flexible arrangement. Approx 2,736 sq.ft., the accommodation comprises double drawing room, reception room, kitchen with wine store, conservatory, 4 double bedrooms, bathroom, 2 shower rooms, 2 cloakrooms.

ADDISON AVENUE, HOLLAND PARK, W11

Freehold for Sale - £5,250,000

A wonderfully wide, unmodernised and unlisted family house with masses of potential in this most sought after Holland Park address. The property has enormous character and charm, is low built and boasts a 67’ west facing rear garden. At present the house comprises 3,178 sq.ft. Drawing room with door to terrace overlooking the garden, study, reception room, dining room, kitchen, utility, 3 bedrooms, bathroom, shower room, loft and storage area.

ADDISON ROAD, HOLLAND PARK, W14

To Let £1,350 per week (Unfurnished)

Full of classic charm with a modern style, a large apartment in an impressive villa. The property has recently been refurbished throughout and the easy flowing accommodation comprises, spacious entrance hall, 3 double bedrooms, good sized reception room, modern fitted kitchen, 2 bathrooms, utility room, and use of a delightful communal garden. Addison Road is a prestigious residential road, close to all the amenities at Holland Park Avenue, Kensington High Street and the Westfield complex.

QUEENSDALE ROAD, HOLLAND PARK, W11

To Let £1,000 per week (Unfurnished)

This family home has recently been refurbished to a high standard and has the benefit of a private rear garden and terrace. The accommodation comprises huge reception room with doors leading to garden, modern kitchen with appliances, 3 double bedrooms, bathroom and shower room. Queensdale Road is located within easy walking distance of Holland Park Avenue (Central Line) and the Westfield complex – the Overground link giving access to Clapham Junction.

MELBURY ROAD, HOLLAND PARK, W14

To Let £825 per week (Unfurnished)

Presented in excellent condition throughout, a newly refurbished lower ground floor flat in this beautiful red brick building, moments from the gates of Holland Park and the amenities at Kensington High Street. The property consists of 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a very large reception room and a fully fitted modern kitchen. The building benefits from a lovely communal garden and parking on a first come, first served basis.

TAVERNER’S CLOSE, ADDISON AVENUE, W11

To Let £1,250 per week (Unfurnished)

A charming house within a small gated development just off Addison Avenue. The spacious and well presented accommodation comprises very large reception room, with opening to fitted kitchen, 4 bedrooms, 2 modern bathrooms and utility area. The house also benefits from an off street parking space. Addison Avenue is within a few minutes walk from the first class amenities at Holland Park Avenue.

Completely at home in West London.

Our services Sales and Lettings Property Management Block and Estate Management Property Solicitors Chartered Surveyors Financial Services Visit kfh.co.uk

With over 35 years’ experience and more than 50 branches across the Capital, our local knowledge and London network will ensure we achieve the right result for you. Local branches include • Fulham • Fulham and Chelsea • Holland Park • South Kensington

03 March 16 Brand adverts.indd 1

05/02/2016 14:27

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Royal Crescent, Holland Park, W11 £1,200,000 Holland Park 020 3542 2111 hollandpark.sales@kfh.co.uk

03.16 KFH Runwild Kensington and Chelsea.indd 2

A fantastic two bedroom flat in an elegant Victorian building, featuring a contemporary kitchen and a beautiful wood floored reception room opening on to a roof terrace with wonderful views. Royal Crescent is a handsome Holland Park landmark set around pretty communal gardens. It is located conveniently for the underground station, an excellent choice of cafés, shops and restaurants and benefits from close proximity to the green open spaces of Holland Park itself.

• • • • • • • •

Two double bedrooms Two modern bathrooms Beautiful reception room Two terraces Communal gardens Close to Westfield shopping centre Shared freehold EPC rating C

05/02/2016 14:54

Rigault Road, Fulham, SW6 £1,950,000 Fulham 020 3486 2280 fulhamroad.sales@kfh.co.uk

03.16 KFH Runwild Kensington and Chelsea.indd 3

A fantastic five bedroom family home, arranged over three floors, refurbished to the highest standards. The property benefits from a double reception room, an exceptionally spacious kitchen/diner, two family bathrooms and a private patio garden. Located between Putney Bridge and Parsons Green, this beautiful home is convenient for both underground stations.

• • • • • • • •

Five double bedrooms Two bathrooms Double reception room Stunning kitchen/diner Beautiful patio garden Close to Putney Bridge and Parsons Green underground stations Freehold EPC rating C

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Walham Yard, Fulham, SW6 £1,050,000

Extending to over 1,200 sq ft and arranged over four floors, is this stunning three bedroom, three bathroom townhouse located in a quiet mews development.

Fulham and Chelsea 020 7731 0051 fulham.sales@kfh.co.uk

Finished to exacting standards, this beautiful property is conveniently located moments from the amenities and transport links of Fulham Broadway.

03.16 KFH Runwild Kensington and Chelsea.indd 4

• • • • • • •

Master bedroom suite Second double bedroom and third bedroom/study Arranged over four floors Private balcony Close to Fulham Broadway underground station Freehold EPC rating C

05/02/2016 14:54

â&#x20AC;&#x153;I can only say that, after years managing this building together with fellow directors I am utterly delighted that the RMC appointed 1st Asset as managers. They have repaired structural damage, improved fixtures, liaised with our freeholder, slashed insurance costs... the list goes on. I'm all for 1st Asset because they're a wonderful support, have done great things for this building and taken a huge burden from our shoulders.â&#x20AC;? Mrs Davis

If you are looking for exceptional block management services in Kensington & Chelsea, please get in touch today for a chat. T 020 7014 3806 www.1stasset.co.uk

S TA N H O P E G A R D E N S

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SOUTH KENSINGTON SW7 | £3.595m

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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

05/02/2015 15:20

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05/02/2015 15:20

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;Casa Palapa offers a bewitching blend of architecture and nature in an exceptional locationâ&#x20AC;?

Guide Price $16,500,000

While located at the heart of the Casa de Campo resort, the sense of ease and seclusion at Casa Palapa is palpable; the three-acre peninsular, stretching out into the Caribbean Sea, offers wonderful vistas that compound the magic of this property. Designed by the Mexican architect Marco Aldaco, named among the 100 best architects in the world by Architectural Digest, the hand of a master is to be found everywhere. Casa Palapa provides a blissful escape in a perfect tropical setting.

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

Slamming the Cynics Ellen Breakwell, head of sales at Hogarth Estates, explains that the London property market is maintaining its status as an international destination for buyers and has the stats to prove it. HANNAH LEMON reports Photography by: Sarel Jansen

The GENERAL FEELING among property agents at the moment is not far off dejection. A plateau in the market due to taxes, political changes and the property bubble has brought with it a concern for the future. But outside this murmuring of doubt in the Royal Borough is a quiet haven of property around a peaceful, private garden – Nevern Square. It is Hogarth Estates’ stomping ground and it is bucking many trends of the market. “It’s expensive to buy in London,” Ellen Breakwell, head of sales at Hogarth Estates, admits. “You need to be earning a high salary to meet the demands of buying in this area where £1.2m barely gets you a good sized two-bedroom flat.” But despite the efforts it takes to get there, the rewards are worth it. “In the past five years, all of the properties that I’ve sold have substantially increased in value,” she says, adding, “Properties I sold three to four years ago have nearly doubled in price.” These statistics are outrageously appealing, but we must not forget that the past few years have seen huge growth in the financial markets since the 2008 crash. We are chatting in a stunning two-bedroom flat in an 1880s residential building in Nevern Square, which was completely redesigned in 2014 courtesy of architect Daniele Petteno at DPAW (formerly at Foster + Partners). Storage springs open and neatly disappears again like a Swiss Army knife, with such innovation that it has received international acclaim and numerous awards. Doors miraculously appear from inside walls, storage is seamlessly hidden, bathrooms are designed with single slab porcelain tiles and invisible drainage systems, and there is a clear view from the back of the house through to the delightful green space outside. The latter is one of the area’s greatest attributes. “Nevern Square is particularly beautiful,” says Ellen. “In some other areas you look out of your window onto exteriors of buildings that are a little run-down or need a paint, whereas the buildings here are very well kept and the view of unbroken architecture is exceptional.” The boutique agency works on sales and lettings in the heart of SW5 and has been going for the past 40 years. Nevern Square is the gem in its crown with record prices having been set time and again in the past 18 months alone. What is it about the area that makes it so alluring? “The appeal of Earls Court, and in particular the garden squares such as Nevern, is the combination of existing attractions and future growth,” replies Ellen. “There is going to be enormous investment through the Earls Court development project, which will bring with it desirable local amenities. And with several luxury brands rumoured to be opening retail outlets within the development, I believe this will enhance the status of Earls Court a great deal. The area is also known for its transport facilities; you’ve got the Heathrow Express nearby and Earls Court has three underground lines: District, Circle and Piccadilly.” And of course, Kensington High Street and South Kensington are a short walk away. But it’s not just entertainment and trains that buyers are interested in: it’s the prices. “We have very seasoned, knowledgeable buyers who are looking for future value. Many have existing buy-to-let portfolios and are knowledgeable about price per square foot.” Ellen mentions that Imperial College London is another huge attraction in this area. Every year students and professors arrive looking for a property to buy or rent near to the

PROPERTY

Nevern Square, Sw5, POA

“London property is still one of the safest places you can put your money”

Hogarth’s Nevern Square • 13 properties sold in the past 12 months, including a whole block of flats • £1,795/sq ft is the top price achieved in the past 12 months

university campus. “That’s why rentals and sales do so well here,” she explains. “You have wealthy parents from all over the world whose children are going to study at the college and they want to rent or buy something for themselves or their offspring near the campus. They spend an average of £1.35–1.5m for a two-bed flat here and in South Kensington.” So what about the future of the property market? Are we likely to see some more peaks in prime prices? In truth, no one can tell, not even Ellen, but she highlights why this city will always remain top of the list. “People always need to move and London is not just a wonderful, vibrant place to live but it is part of a global property investment market. At a time when investors are finding uncertainty in many other areas, London property is still one of the safest places you can put your money. Long term, London property bucks almost any trend and has consistently yielded a good return on capital invested. I believe these facts will continue to encourage people to buy in London.”

• Currently, the average price is £1,550/sq ft; the average price three to four years ago was £800/sq ft

s l u x u ry l o n d o n . c o. u k s

Hogarth Estates, 16b Hogarth Place, Earls Court, SW5 0QT, 020 7373 5222, hogarthestates.co.uk

183

Established 1897

SMITH STREET, Chelsea SW3 A truly exceptional Victorian five bedroom terraced house (approximately 3,722sq ft/ 345.8sq m) located on Smith Street in the heart of Chelsea. The property has been modernised to a high standard and boasts a beautifully presented 85ft west-facing garden. Benefitting from an abundance of light and sympathetic and effective use of the space, the apartment is provided with the state-of-the-art technologies that would be expected from a property of this standard. The accommodation includes a double reception room, large kitchen, family room, five bedrooms, cinema, gym and sauna, study, wine cellar, Japanese garden and a separate garden room. Offered with no onward chain, the house is located moments from the many shops and restaurants that the Kings Road has to offer. EPC rating C. Guide price: ÂŁ7,950,000 Freehold 020 7225 5911 mark.greenway@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

RUTLAND HOUSE, Kensington W8 A superb first floor, lateral four bedroom apartment (approximately 2,220sq ft/ 204sq m) located within a wellmaintained portered building. The apartment has recently been renovated to the highest-standard and is located in the heart in of Kensington. The accommodation comprises two substantial, west-facing reception rooms, both with pleasant aspects over Marloes Road, a bespoke eat-in kitchen, large master bedroom with ensuite and dressing area, a spacious second bedroom, two further bedrooms, two bathrooms and a separate WC. Rutland House is located within close proximity to the numerous shops, restaurants and transport facilities that Kensington and Holland Park have to offer. EPC rating D. Guide Price: ÂŁ4,350,000 Leasehold: Approximately 968 years remaining 020 3650 4600 nicholas.shaw@harrodsestates.com

HARRODSESTATES.COM @HarrodsEstates

BELGRAVIA, SW1X A rare combination of two mews houses which has created a great 5 bedroom lateral house with a four bay 35.4 foot (17.7m) drawing room. Large open plan sitting and dining area. Perfectly situated within a quiet part of the Belgravia, with a private walled garden, garage and two parking spaces. Planning permission for a first floor conservatory to incorporate a part glazed roof terrace, lift and creation of a basement living space. EPC Rating C.

PRICE: £9,000,000 FREEHOLD

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

www.john-taylor.com

RUTLAND GARDENS, KNIGTHSBRIDGE, SW7 A refurbished 5th floor lateral apartment of approx. 1739 sq.ft, with panoramic views of Hyde Park. The property offers a grand reception room/dining room with park views, fitted kitchen, three en suite bedrooms all with under floor heating and air conditioning. This classic period building is one of the most prestigious places to live in Knightsbridge, with excellent porters, video entry phone and lift. There is also a gym and a spa with an instructor who attends each week. The proximity to Hyde Park makes for an excellent lifestyle. EPC Rating C.

PRICE: £6,200,000 SHARE OF FREEHOLD

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

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

www.john-taylor.com

ACADEMY GARDENS KENSINGTON W8

ÂŁ1,150 per week

www.century21uk.com/nottinghill

nottinghill@century21uk.com

HOLLAND PARK HOLLAND PARK W11

ÂŁ1,200 per week

10 Clarendon Road London W11 3AA

020 7229 1414

BODENS bodensresidential.com

QUEENS GATE MEWS, SW7 £1,195 PER WEEK FURNISHED/UNFURNISHED

2nd Bathroom | Single Garage with Storage | EPC- F

WEST-FACING MEWS HOUSE Large Reception with Fully Fitted Open-Plan Kitchen | Master Bedroom | En-Suite Bathroom | 2 Further Double Bedrooms |

MOORE STREET, SW3 £2,200 PER WEEK UNFURNISHED NEWLY UPDATED FOUR STOREY MAISONETTE 1st Floor Double Reception With Gas Fire | Ground Floor Fully Fitted Open Plan Kitchen And Dining Room Leading To The

lettings@bodensresidential.com

020 7225 0433

lettings@bodensresidential.com

020 7225 0433

102 Draycott Avenue Chelsea SW3 4AD

ASTELL HOUSE, ASTELL STREET, SW3 £1,545,000 AN EXCEPTIONAL ONE BEDROOM APARTMENT WITH OFF STREET PARKING Entrance Hall | Reception Room | Fitted Kitchen | Bedroom |

nble

MARLBOROUGH, WALTON STREET, SW3 £900,000

C- E

BODENS bodensresidential.com

Bathroom | Cloakroom | Separate Storage Room | Off Street Parking | EPC- D

sales@bodensresidential.com

020 7589 2000

sales@bodensresidential.com

020 7589 2000

ELYSTAN PLACE, CHELSEA SW3

£2,200,000

LEASEHOLD

• THREE BEDROOMS • THREE BATHROOMS • RECEPTION ROOM • WOOD FLOORS • LIFT • PORTER • UNDERGROUND PARKING • EPC F

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

henryandjames.co.uk

PETERSHAM PLACE, CHELSEA SW3

£1,200 PER WEEK • TWO BEDROOMS • TWO BATHROOMS • RECEPTION ROOM • OPEN PLAN KITCHEN/DINING ROOM • GARAGE • EPC D £240 TENANCY FEE AND £60 REFERENCING FEE (per person)

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

henryandjames.co.uk

20 Montpelier Street Knightsbridge London SW7 1HD

BRITTEN STREET, SW3 2 Bedrooms | Bathroom | Dining/ Reception Room |Kitchen/ Breakfast Room |901 sq ft | Caretaker | Communal Garden | EPC D A stylish interior designed two bedroom flat, in the heart of Chelsea; benefitting from dual aspect views, plenty of natural light and great proportions throughout. The apartment comprises two double bedrooms, marbled shower room with underfloor heating, considerable reception room with space for dining, separate kitchen/breakfast room and access to the communal garden. Britten House is a popular and well maintained building, with caretaker, located moments from Chelsea Green, close to the numerous amenities and transport links of both The King’s Road and South Kensington (Piccadilly, Circle & District lines).

£1,450,000 Leasehold, plus Share of Freehold

UPPER CHEYNE ROW, SW3 2 Bedrooms | Bathroom | Kitchen/ Reception Room | 760 sq ft | Roof Terrace | EPC D A charming mews house tucked away down this attractive walkway, lined with flora, in Old Chelsea. The cottage possesses quintessential character whilst providing desirable contemporary living. The expansive reception room with a large sash window, fireplace and ceiling spotlights throughout; provides great proportions and opens onto a modern integrated kitchen to the rear, with light well above, perfect for entertaining. The feature glass staircase leads to the upper accommodation comprising two double bedrooms, a fully fitted bathroom and superb roof terrace with decking.

£850 Per Week Unfurnished

T: +44 (0)20 3770 3474

info@nicolasvanpatrick.com

www.cbreresidential.com/uk

South Penthouse Parkside, Knightsbridge, SW1 Exquisite penthouse in the heart of Knightsbridge This stunning penthouse apartment is bright and spacious with a multitude of floor to ceiling windows throughout creating an abundance of natural light in every room and far-reaching views across London. – Master suite benefits from a dressing room and a modern ensuite luxury bathroom – Two further double bedrooms both with built in wardrobes – Newly renovated – 24hr concierge

Guide price £9,995,000

West End sales 020 7420 3050 westend.sales@cbre.com

Trebovir Road, SW5 1,646 S1.FT/153 SQ.M

A spectacular two bedroom, two bathroom raised ground and lower ground floor maisonette with superb proportions and high ceilings. The magnificent reception room has doors leading to the 42’ft private garden.

Price £2,200,000

L/H + SHARE OF FREEHOLD

020 7590 9339

Grenville Place, SW7 804 SQ.FT / 81 SQ.M

A light and superbly proportioned first floor flat offering classic high ceilings and a spacious reception room with a pleasant garden view. Both bedrooms have access to the west facing balcony.

Price £1,375,000

SHARE OF FREEHOLD

020 7590 9339 38 GLOUCESTER ROAD, SW7

WWW.DOMINICLONDON.COM

SALES@DOMINICLONDON.COM

Galliard_Stage_K&CMag_FPC_17.2.16 09/02/2016 12:13 Page 1

COMPLETION 2019 THE STAGE IS SET

SHOREDITCH

IS ALL ABOUT THE CAPITAL’S FOCUS SHIFTING EAST TO CITY FRINGE & TECH CITY

TECH CITY

NEW AMAZON HQ

IS ABOUT A SUSTAINED MASSIVE INFLUX OF EMPLOYEES ADDING TO THE AREA’S ACUTE HOUSING UNDER SUPPLY

UNDER SUPPLY

IS THE CATALYST TO FUEL DEMAND & CAPITAL GROWTH

CAPITAL GROWTH

IS ALL ABOUT BUYING IN TO THE STAGE

EXCEPTIONAL SUITES, APARTMENTS AND PENTHOUSES

WITH 6 YEARS GUARANTEED INCOME FROM EXCHANGE UP TO 2022* PRICES FROM £695,000 * Terms & conditions apply. Image computer generated. Price correct at time of going to press.

RESIDENTIAL AGENT

RELEASING 5PM THURS 17TH MARCH THE STAGE MARKETING SUITE, FAIRCHILD PLACE, SHOREDITCH, EC2A 3EN

THESTAGESHOREDITCH.COM/KC APPOINTED LETTING AGENT

020 3621 0519 sales@thestageshoreditch.com

=AG GINNY TIARKS HICKS SOPHIE

SYDNEY STREET,LONDON, LONDON SW3 020 7351 7822 FAX:M: 020 7351 2274 117117 SYDNEY STREET, SW3 6NR 6NR TEL: TEL: 020 7351 7822 07530 689536 e-mail: ginny@hlrlets.com website: e-mail: sophie@hlrlets.com website:www.hlrlets.com www.hlrlets.com

HENNIKER MEWS, SW3

CHELSEA MANOR GARDENS, SW3

This fabulous two bedroom house in a quiet private gated mews close to Fulham Road has been refurbished and decorated throughout. The house has been beautifully furnished in an elegant classic style with a spacious kitchen/ dining room and sunny top floor reception room leading onto a small terrace.

- TWO BEDROOMS - TWO BATHROOMS - TOP FLOOR RECEPTION - STUDY - KITCHEN/DINING ROOM - TERRACE - PARKING

£1275 per week

FURNISHED

This stunning corner apartment in a well-run portered building in the heart of Chelsea has just been completely renovated throughout in an elegant contemporary style. The bathrooms have been beautifully designed and the kitchen is sleek and modern. Situated on the 8th floor this flat has wonderful panoramic views north to the V and A museum and south to Richmond Park. The flat has two double bedrooms, the master having a dressing room and bathroom en-suite and excellent storage. There is 24 hour porterage, lift and a communal garden. - TWO DOUBLE BEDROOMS - LIVING ROOM/DINING ROOM - OPEN PLAN KITCHEN - ENSUITE BATHROOM/DRESSING ROOM - SHOWER ROOM - PORTERAGE - LIFT - COMMUNAL GARDEN

£725 per week

FURNISHED

CADOGAN GARDENS, SW3

SYDNEY PLACE, SW7

This elegant SECOND FLOOR flat has just been totally refurbished including a large new family kitchen and wood floors throughout. It is newly decorated in neutral colours and its three separate reception rooms make it ideal for entertaining as well as family living. This well run portered building with access to communal gardens and use of tennis court is conveniently located close to Sloane Square underground and shops.

This elegant family house has retained many of its original features including the stone staircase and cornicing throughout.Thehousehasbeenthoughtfullyandcarefullydesignedwithawonderfulgroundfloorkitchen/ family room leading through to a conservatory dining room. French doors lead onto a secluded paved west facing garden from which is accessed a good sized private garage. Newly decorated throughout in neutral colours and wood floors in all the reception rooms, this house lends itself perfectly to both entertaining and family living. Conveniently located close to South Kensington shops and underground station.

- FOUR BEDROOMS - THREE BATHROOMS - DRAWING ROOM - DINING ROOM - STUDY - EAT-IN KITCHEN - SEPARATE SHOWER ROOM - GUEST CLOAKROOM - LIFT - CARETAKER - ACCESS TO COMMUNAL GARDENS

- FIRST FLOOR DOUBLE RECEPTION ROOM - DINING ROOM -FULLY FITTED KITCHEN - CONSERVATORY - STUDY - PLAYROOM/FIFTH BEDROOM - FOUR FURTHER BEDROOMS - FOUR BATHROOMS - DRESSING ROOM CLOAKROOM - UTILITY ROOM - GARDEN - GARAGE - PARKING SPACE

£2250 per week

UNFURNISHED

117 Sydney Street London SW3 6NR Lettings: 0207 351 7822 or info@hlrlets.com

£3850 per week

UNFURNISHED

Quintessentially British An exquisite collection of Grade II listed Lateral Apartments and Townhouses with concierge, set on a private garden square

Computer generated image

7-12 Leinster Square, Westbourne Grove W2 Lateral Apartments from ÂŁ4,450,000 Townhouses from ÂŁ6,250,000 Hamptons International | londondi@hamptons-int.com +44 (0)20 7758 8441 Carter Jonas | newhomes@carterjonas.co.uk +44 (0)20 7518 3240 leinstersquarew2.com

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02/02/2016 18:37

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F I R S T

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C O M M U N I T Y

DON’T MISS OUT ON THIS EXCEPTIONA L

Battersea Place will be opening its doors to residents from April 2016. Our exceptional services include chauffeur-driven car, concierge, high-class restaurant, bar and café, billiard room, gymnasium, lounge, private cinema, hairdresser, swimming pool, treatment rooms, spa and guest apartment.

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Visit now while there is still a selection of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments available. Call today on 020 7205 4537 to view our show apartments at 45 Worfield Street, London, SW11 4RD.

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10/02/2016 12:30

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

Lay of the Land A comprehensive “Domesday Book” of all the public land in London has been unveiled online. After some sterling work by Savills, the London Land Commission has published an interactive map of all 40,000 brownfield sites identified in the survey, in a bid to identify any that are surplus to requirements. City Hall is currently analysing the data and reckons it has already spotted the potential for 130,000 new homes. Spread across every borough, the sites are owned by the Mayor of London, government departments, councils, Transport for London and the NHS, and range from tiny parcels to big swathes. The existing use of each site has also been determined and marked down. According to a statement, owners on the register will be contacted to “determine availability” and “encourage the marketing of public land to obtain the best possible housing development for Londoners, rather than selling with no obligations”. The Commission also plans to group together plots of potentially surplus land.

Property Potential A double-fronted villa in London’s Holland Park may have fetched £30m, but that’s not a patch on what it could be worth if the new owner decides to realise its full potential. Although it happened a while ago, the sale of the white stucco seven-bed on Addison Road has now come to light as the biggest residential deal recorded by the Land Registry in November, and one of the chunkiest transactions to be lodged over the past 12 months. Coming in at 6,495 square feet, the house was advertised as having full planning in place to extend the internal space up to 22,231 square feet, thereby creating one of London’s ultimate trophy homes. The 0.35 acre plot means the house has one of the biggest gardens in the area, thereby allowing for the creation of a doublelevel subterranean extension. RKBC granted consent for the proposals in 2014, just a few months before its borough-wide clampdown on basement development. The plans allow for a 77foot pool, separate male and female changing rooms, plunge pool, steam room, sauna, wine store, Champagne room, art gallery, car lift, staff accommodation and a 50-seat private cinema. Two floors dedicated to a grand entertaining space, a master suite and four more bedrooms have also been included in the plans. At 22,231 square feet, a £3k per square foot calculation works out as being between £65m-£70m so at £4k per square foot, we’re into £90m territory. Other big deals recorded at the end of 2015 included a 5,000 square foot apartment on Kensington Palace Gardens (£19m), a seven-bed end of terrace on Upper Phillimore Gardens (£17.45m) and a stunning new-build property on Lyall Street in Belgravia (£15.15m).

The Next Step Elena Dimova, managing director of CENTURY 21 Sophia Elena, considers how the 3% stamp duty has resulted in a sense of urgency in the London property market

THE FIRST QUARTER has started with a sense of urgency to buy or sell before the new 3% stamp duty is implemented. It is an interesting time because buyers are in a rush and so are sellers, but their reasons for being in a rush may be different. The effect is more stock and more choice offered in the market, as well as greater opportunities for buyers to upgrade or for sellers to downsize or move on. We are also seeing a weaker pound versus other major currencies, making London property cheaper for overseas investors. They are dealing with international woes, weaker oil prices and commodity prices, and a slowdown in Chinese growth. Buying in London gives them diversification and is now costing them less. We are soon to enter the busy spring market and local people will start to move, not only because they want to beat one tax deadline or another, but simply because they need to move.

We are always dreaming of the next step on the property ladder. It is part of our culture There was a recent article in the Financial Times entitled, Young bankers will want to live in London, however expensive. It reminded me that no matter how much we try to analyse short- and medium-term trends in the property market to predict what the smart money will do next, there are millions of people living in London because they need and want to live here. There are fundamental reasons for this, irrespective of short-term views on the property market. These are related to jobs, education, family and lifestyle, among others. The population is predicted to grow. We all want more space, a shorter commute and better amenities. For some, natural light and high ceilings prevail, for others a modern finish and a concierge, and for those with children, pets or love of gardens, outside space is the most important asset. As our lives evolve, our needs and requirements change and therefore we need to move. We are always dreaming of the next step on the property ladder. It is part of our culture. CENTURY 21 Sophia Elena, 10 Clarendon Road, W11 3AA 020 7229 1414; century21uk.com

PROPERTY

PrimeQResi Journal of Prime Property

primeresi.com

Space Time Nick Crayson attempts to predict exactly what is going to happen to central London property prices over the next five years by transcending space and time

have you ever picked up the

Top of the Line A former Chelsea police station just off Sloane Avenue is reportedly being turned into a residential building worth around £150m, after being snapped up for “in excess of £45m”. The 23,153 square foot building sits on a 0.195 acre plot at the southern end of Lucan Place and hit the market with Knight Frank last year. Topland Group has confirmed that it provided the buyer with a loan of £22.5m less than two weeks after the first approach, at a rate of 5.5% per annum. According to the leading property group, the unnamed developer paid more than £45m for the superbly-located site and is currently working up plans for a new apartment scheme, which local agents believe could have a GDV in excess of £150m. The loan was just one of a quartet of big bridging deals arranged by the alternative lender in December. The other three were for the former Westminster Fire Station – which the borrower also hopes to convert into prime resi – and two £20m loans to “one of the UK’s leading high-end residential developers”. The average loan period was nine months with an average loan-to-value of 65%. The total GDV for the four deals is a whopping £250m.

Open Book Kensington & Chelsea Council is to begin publishing the pre-application advice given by its planning officers. Applicants are able to seek up to four different levels of advice about a development proposal before submitting an application, although this has all generally been seen as confidential until now (it can get published on the back of a Freedom of Information request or under the Environmental Information Regulations, once a related application is made). As of March, however, any advice given by officers or the Architectural Appraisal Panel will automatically be published as part of a new transparency drive. RBKC says it is the first council in the country to open its files in this way. This means one will be able to see what planners make of schemes right off the bat, along with all the ensuing battles. It should make for some useful, and revealing, reading.

s l u x u ry l o n d o n . c o. u k s

phone to call somebody and found that they are already there, having rung you at the exact same moment? Do you ever think about somebody and wonder if they are thinking about you at the same time? Do you ever get the feeling that there is someone or something else in the room after having seen a shape, a shadow, or something indiscernible? Pure coincidence, or are there strange things afoot? I am convinced that it is the former, but that human brains are not quite evolved enough yet to process such unexplained phenomena. Maybe a shift in consciousness will allow greater use of our brain capacities and one day extra-dimensional activity will become completely apparent. Scientific reports in September 2015 predicted a rise in the Earth’s frequency between two and four Hz. And apparently a 3,400-year ‘Mayan’ cyclical planetary realignment is currently at its apex and this is reportedly resulting in less gravity and increased brain activity – so one day such strange happenings may finally be explained. All of this occurred to me the other day when I saw my dog walk across my living room. However, it was not my dog because he was asleep on the sofa. This same scenario has been repeating itself for a few years now, but what I have actually been seeing is some sort of moving shadow. But what has this got to do with property? Most people I have spoken to have seen ghosts, but some have even heard sounds. In Notting Hill many people live in houses that are up to 200 years old. Buildings and their spaces hold memories and often you will find that there is a record of people who have lived there and previous goings-on. Some people have hypothesised that the phenomenon is, in fact, a real recording of a past event, somehow imprinted onto the surroundings. I really like the idea of recording a ghost. Imagine if we could build a machine to replay such ghosts at will. We would have a window into history. We could point the machine all over the place, not just at haunted locations, and maybe watch real historical events being replayed. It would certainly beat television period dramas. We only really ‘borrow’ the houses we live in and we are all playing our parts in their rich histories – a live yet multidimensional reality show. Again, I have failed to predict exactly where property prices are going, but this was never my intention. There are simply too many ghosts in the predictability machine. Crayson, 10 Lambton Place, W11 2SH, 020 7221 1117; crayson.com

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Lennox Gardens, Knightsbridge SW1

A brand newly refurbished two bedroom flat located in the best portered building on one of the finest garden squares in Knightsbridge.

ÂŁ3,995,000 Share of Freehold

Knightsbridge 020 7235 9959 knightsbridge@struttandparker.com

Thornwood Gardens, Kensington W8

An impressive three bedroom apartment, situated on the second floor with two underground parking spaces and 24 hour porterage.

ÂŁ4,000,000 Share of Freehold

Kensington 020 7938 3666 kensington@struttandparker.com

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Sloane Square, Knightsbridge SW1

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

Knightsbridge 020 7235 9959 knightsbridge@struttandparker.com JSA: Savills 020 7581 5234

ÂŁ7,250,000 Leasehold

Clarendon Road, Holland Park W11

A beautifully presented five bedroom family house, with the benefit of a fabulous 46 ft westfacing garden.

Notting Hill 020 7221 1111 nottinghill@struttandparker.com

ÂŁ9,650,000 Freehold

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Micklethwaite Road, Fulham SW6

This property boasts fantastic space, an abundance of natural light throughout and exceptional private garden with summer house.

£1,050 per week * Unfurnished

Cambridge Place, Kensington W8

An exceptional, semi-detached, stucco fronted house on this prestigious and sought after street in Kensington, with the advantage of a garage.

* The following Tenant charges may apply prior to tenancy commencement: Tenancy Agreement £210 (inv VAT) Credit Reference per application £54 (inc VAT). All advertised prices are excluded and other associated services.

Fulham 020 7731 7100

fulham.lettings@struttandparker.com

£3,950 per week * Unfurnished

Kensington 020 7938 3866

kensington.lettings@struttandparker.com

Cadogan Place, Knightsbridge SW1X

An excellent first and second floor maisonette with an outstanding drawing room, exquisite garden views and 416 sq ft roof terrace.

Cheyne Terrace, Chelsea SW3

This fantastically stylish first floor apartment is part of a stunning new development situated in the heart of Old Chelsea.

£4,250 per week * Furnished

Knightsbridge 020 7235 9996

knightsbridge.lettings@struttandparker.com

£5,250 per week * Furnished

Chelsea 020 7589 9966

chelsea.lettings@struttandparker.com