Kensington & Chelsea October 2013

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CONTENTS 12

86

An Artisanal Renaissance

Double Act

Avril Groom explores the way in which larger companies are giving a helping hand to skilled designers and craftsmen

Olivia Sharpe meets the women behind Carden Cunietti, Homes and Gardens 2013 Interior Designer of the Year

23

106

Go Forth & Multiply

Baby, It’s Cold Outside

Multiplied, the Contemporary Art in Editions fair, returns to Christie’s South Kensington. Rebecca Wallersteiner reports

Travel to the postcard-perfect resort of Arosa for sledging, sunshine, snow, schnapps and, of course, skiing

41 Mists & Mellow Fruitfulness Art inspired by war, peace and the desire to push boundaries brings shivers of excitement to this new season

68 Ghost Story Luxuriate in the full-length glamour of evening gowns in gothic black lace, jewel-toned greens and purples, and ethereal greys

10

Editor’s Letter

34

Spotlight On...

41

Art & Antiques

46

Local Profile

49

Collection

63

Fashion

81

Interiors

96

Motoring

104

Travel

117

Drinking & Dining

124

London Living

131

Property

October / November Cover: Image courtesy of Hermès’ Petit h exhibition Designer: Christian Astuguevieille Photographer: Philippe Garcia See the Petit h creations for yourself at Hermès’ boutique, 155 New Bond Street, from 20 November until 7 December 2013 hermes.com/petith

octoBER 2013 s issuE 020 Editor Annabel Harrison Assistant Editor Olivia Sharpe Contributing Editor Richard Brown October 2013 – 27 April 2014 The Cheapside Hoard: London’s Lost Jewels is on at the Museum of London museumoflondon.org.uk

Editorial Assistant Rachel Mulrenan Senior Designer Sophie Blain Production Alex Powell, Hugo Wheatley, Oscar Viney Head of Finance Elton Hopkins Associate Publisher Sophie Roberts Client Relationship Director Felicity Morgan-Harvey

-21 October Multiplied 2013 at Christie’s South Kensington multipliedartfair.com

Business Development Manager Alexandra Vogel General Manager Fiona Fenwick Managing Director Eren Ellwood

October 2013 – 19 January 2014 Masterpieces of Chinese Painting 700-1900 vam.ac.uk

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From the EDITOR “The aim is to help craftsmen and women develop businesses that are strong, growing and sustainable in order to support themselves properly, do commercial justice to their outstanding skills and, crucially, allow them to pass these skills on”. Chairman Guy Salter spoke these words about Walpole’s Crafted: Makers of the Exceptional spring exhibition in which 20 of Britain’s most talented and pioneering artisans demonstrated their passion, dedication and expertise.

This showcase at Somerset House was supported by Vacheron Constantin, founded in 1755 and thus the oldest watchmaking manufacturer in the world in continuous operation. A true custodian and promoter of artisans and their valuable skills, CEO Juan-Carlos Torres told me about the company’s involvement with Crafted: “We can see that important crafts are disappearing worldwide; the only way to stop it is to make people discover these crafts” (p. 52).

Here in the Royal Borough, there is an exceptional array of art on show this month, starting with Multiplied 2013, the Contemporary Art in Editions fair at Christie’s in South Kensington (p. 23); prices range from £10 to £30,000 so you’re likely to be successful whether you’re in the market for an impressive work to add to your art collection or colourful prints to brighten up your teenager’s university room. At the V&A you’ll find the spectacular Masterpieces of Chinese Painting 700-1900 700-1900,, opening on 26 October (p. 44); essential viewing, both aesthetically and historically, for anybody interested in Asian politics, astronomy, Buddhism, the natural world, philosophy or artistic practices. Head to Hermès’ Bond Street boutique in November to enjoy its Petit h exhibition, in which artists and craftsmen have come together to transform discarded Hermès materials and items into new and unique pieces (p. 79).

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Olivia Sharpe delved into the fascinating history of the Cheapside Hoard (p. 18), on show in its entirety at the Museum of London for the first time since its discovery in 1912.

The extraordinary 500-piece collection has shed new light on the techniques of the times and experts are most impressed by the skill employed centuries, and indeed millennia, ago.

C

Editor

Annabel Harrison Follow us on Twitter @KandCMagazine or email KCeditor@runwildgroup.co.uk with any comments

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FEATURE

An Artisanal

Renaissance AVRIL GROOM explores the way in which larger companies are giving a helping hand to skilled, up-and-coming designers and craftsmen; may Britain never be accused of turning its back on our tradition of manufacturing marvellous products IN THIS SOCIALLY conscious and cash-strapped time, one much-used buzz phrase is ‘giving back’, and rightly so. Some may label philanthropy a guilt-assuaging hobby for the wealthy, with a whole industry built round glitzy, enjoyable events; however, on the highest-profile occasions, millions of pounds are raised for good causes.

The luxury goods industry has its own agenda in this area, with a history of supporting high-profile sporting events and artistic endeavours, where products can be displayed and celebrity audiences appear on the red carpet in the company’s wares, gaining acres of valuable publicity as well as giving back to the worthiest initiatives.

Most of the companies involved are the major international brands with deep pockets, supporting anything from individual artists and film-makers (Prada) to the restoration of historic buildings (Tod’s), but the British approach is different. Despite charges that Britain no longer has a thriving top-level artisan craft sector in the way that Italy so obviously does, there are a great number of talented craftspeople in luxury areas like jewellery, fashion design or tailoring, mostly youngsters who have been trained by our exemplary art colleges and who often set up their own small businesses. In the past that was a struggle and many talents have either disappeared through lack of stable funding or have been snapped up by big brands abroad.

But change is afoot; the British luxury industry now realises that emerging designers are its future and its lifeblood so there are increasingly organised, and lucrative schemes to help Left/LFW S/S13 Mary Katrantzou Photography: Christopher James Right/ Thorn classic ring, Stephen Webster

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talent flourish. The British industry has a very different structure from luxury power nations like Italy or France and big brand names are rarely attached to giving-back schemes. Here it is usually official industry bodies which organise schemes, funded through the generosity of their members and sometimes with a proportion of public money; this is something that happens rarely in other countries and belies the old complaint that successive British governments “have not done enough” to help our luxury industries. To those who suggest that an inessential industry does not merit such support, the figures speak for themselves; our fashion industry alone is now worth £21 billion a year and, including retail, employs more than 800,000 people. Keeping Britain’s famed flow of young creatives going is very much in the national economy’s interest.

Designer fashion is the area most in the public eye and the most organised in supporting new talent.

That we now have a slew of designers who sell in top stores around the world alongside the greatest names while basing their design studios, and increasingly their manufacturing, in the UK is partly down to the ‘pyramid’ support system evolved by the British Fashion Council – the industry’s privately and publicly-funded governing

The UK’s fashion industry is now worth £21 billion a year and employs 800,000 people body – which provides a structure for exceptional young talent to climb, the best of the best eventually receiving major financial help to expand their fledgling businesses and to take their designs to the major global buying cities. The BFC is involved right down to college level and promising graduates start with cheap studio space in the East End’s Centre for Fashion Enterprise (funded by a mix of private, public and EU money) where they can get advice from experienced designers and technicians and be linked with small scale manufacturers.

The next stage is New Generation, funded for more than a decade by Topshop, one of Britain’s most successful high street chains, which provides a venue and help with shows and presentations for several seasons; in return, many of its members design capsule collections for the chain, which benefits both Topshop’s credentials and the designers’ pockets. Smaller but prestigious start-up schemes include Fashion East, which sponsors six designers a season, and the annual Fashion Fringe award for a designer already in business.

That used to be it but it soon became apparent

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Savile Row Bespoke Association

The British School of Watchmaking

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FEATURE Sam Marsden of Sam James Ltd © Julia Skupny

that growing a business is as financially hazardous as starting it and in 2009 the BFC established the Fashion Forward award, sponsored by eBay and the Mayor of London’s office, to help up to three designers build their business for a year. The pinnacle is the BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund which awards one designer’s business £200,000 and mentoring, with two years’ help also provided to finalists.

The winners so far are a rollcall of Britain’s best – Erdem, Christopher Kane, Jonathan Saunders and now shoe designer Nicholas Kirkwood.

Specific areas of design also receive BFC help – Headonism for aspiring milliners, Estethica for ethical designers, and Rock Vault for fine jewellery creatives.

The latter is the brainchild of top British jeweller Stephen Webster, who is instrumental in creating a similar support structure for young jewellers, currently being developed apace. He has taken the idea of helping designers of precious jewellery cross the divide into the world of high fashion further by inviting, and helping to fund, the participants to exhibit at one of the world’s most important fine jewellery fairs in Las Vegas. Thus he is creating a parallel to the BFC – and Trade department – funded London Rooms that take British fashion designers’ work to Hong Kong, Paris, New York and LA. More help comes from the industry through the International Jewellery London exhibition’s Bright Young Gems scheme, which enables up to five graduates from colleges round Britain to show at this important venue, and Kickstart, funded by IJL with the British Jewellery Association, as a bursary scheme to help up to ten young designers grow their businesses. There are several industry-funded apprenticeship schemes and awards for work in specific materials such as platinum or palladium.

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Savile Row Bespoke Association

This is another area where help is essential; even raw materials for jewellery are expensive. The Goldsmiths’ Company (as a long-established livery company it has a good income stream from Jonathan Saunders A/W13 property investment) recently opened the new £17.5 million Goldsmiths’ Centre, where fledgling designers can rent work space and get advice from the experienced jewellers working there. It also helps young designers exhibit at its own Goldsmiths’ Fair selling exhibition.

Apprenticeships are an important part of the luxury industry, recognised in London’s historic men’s tailoring industry by the firms belonging to the Savile Row Bespoke Association.

Each must have at least one longterm apprentice and the Association sponsors annual competitions and shows for the best apprentices and college tailoring students. On a wider scale, Walpole, a consortium of established British luxury firms, sponsors Brands of Tomorrow, mentoring up to ten new brands annually; this year they ranged from luxury menswear and fine jewellery to handmade chocolate.

Now the word on the excellence of British luxury craftsmanship, and the support it receives, is getting out. Some of the world’s greatest watch brands, such as Patek Philippe, came together several years ago to found the British School of Watchmaking, training young watchmakers to maintain the growing number of top-level and complicated watches bought in the UK. They’re currently working on Swiss products but, with British brands like Bremont springing up, it could lead to yet another aspect of high craft heritage being revived in this British luxury renaissance.

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13.08.13 06:45

The

Lost World

Cloaked in mystery and intrigue, the veil is finally being raised on the legend of the Cheapside Hoard with a new exhibition at the Museum of London starting this October. Olivia Sharpe investigates

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he tale of the Cheapside Hoard reads more like an adventure story than a historical event.

In 1912, a group of workmen who had been excavating a cellar in London’s Cheapside unearthed a wooden box filled with what can only be described as buried treasure; or, to be more specific, 500 pieces of jewellery dating back to the Elizabethan and Jacobean eras.

They took their newfound booty straight to ‘Stoney Jack’, otherwise known as George Fabian Lawrence, the illustrious antiques and pawnshop owner and a well-known figure among London navvies (he would purchase their loot with no questions asked). And yet he was far from being your typical Jack Sparrow figure.

As well as running his successful business in Wandsworth, Lawrence was also Inspector of Excavations for the Guildhall Museum (one of two predecessors of the Museum of London).

As soon as he laid eyes on the Hoard, he knew he was onto something extraordinary.

He took it straight to Lord Harcourt, founder of the London Museum (the other predecessor), who persuaded Lawrence to pay off the workers – who apparently used their newfound winnings to go on a month-long drinking binge – and together they opened the museum with the criticallyacclaimed Cheapside Hoard exhibition.

By keeping a firm lid on news of the Hoard before its release, the museum authorities managed to prevent the exhibit being pinched by its competitor, the Victoria and Albert Museum. Despite precautions, some pieces did end up in South Kensington and the Hoard was subsequently never presented as a whole. More than a century later, what is now the Museum of London has decided to lift the lid on the mystery in a new exhibition which will display the priceless cache of jewels in its entirety. As well as this, the exhibition hopes to shed new light as to how and why it came to be, questions which for more than a century have been shrouded in darkness.

The first and arguably the most important of these questions is the date of the Hoard’s burial. Despite being able to attribute it roughly to the 17th century, experts at the time of its discovery were unable to give any more precision than that. Through recent studies, however, the Museum of London and exhibition curator Hazel Forsyth have dug up one vital piece which has proven invaluable

in solving the puzzle. A previously overlooked intaglio, or red seal stone, can now be seen bearing the arms of William Howard, the Viscount Stafford; subsequently dubbed the ‘Stafford Intaglio’, this finding now means that the Hoard can be dated between 1640 and 1666, essentially after the Viscount’s knighthood and before the Great Fire of London (an excavation revealed damage caused by this cataclysmic event on the site).

By pinning the crucial dating evidence for its deposition, experts can now make certain assumptions as to the reason why it was buried. The most popular theory held by Forsyth is the English Civil War. Cheapside was once the commercial heart of the City of London and henceforth populated by various tradesmen including goldsmiths and jewellers.

However, in 1642 at the start of the English Civil War, the majority of men working in the area would have given up their post to join up. Therefore, Forsyth believes that “the likelihood is they buried it below the cellar floor simply because that was the safest thing to do”. Historical records estimate a rough count of 84,830 deaths on the battlefield so it can also be presumed that the person who buried the Hoard for safekeeping perished before being able to rescue it from its hiding place; and his secret died with him.

So why continue to dig up ancient history, you might ask? Like any buried artefact, the Hoard provides a crucial insight into the social context of the period, rather like a time capsule revealing a glimpse into a lost world.

By analysing the array of gemstones within the collection, which encompasses emeralds, amethysts, sapphires, rubies and diamonds, we begin to unearth an entire international gem trade in an age of global conquest and exploration. By the mid-17th century, trafficking had made gemstones ever more available and is consequently why they hold such a dominant position within the Hoard. For example, one exquisite Salamander brooch illustrates the trading roots between East and West – with cabochon emeralds which can be traced to Colombia – while its table-cut diamonds were almost certainly sourced from the East. The Hoard also features Sri Lankan moonstones, European opals and Scottish pearls.

Like any buried artefact, the Hoard provides an insight into the social context of the period

Above/ Emerald, diamond and enamel Salamander brooch © Museum of London Opposite/ Conservation of gold and enamel pendant set with two sapphires and an irregular polished spinel © Museum of London

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The Hoard similarly tells us a good deal about contemporary jewellery trends. In the 16th and 17th centuries, Forsyth informs me how there was “notably an enthusiasm for coloured gemstones and light, elegant settings”.

Diamonds were ubiquitous at this time but, unlike today, “not necessarily the most prized or valuable stones: rubies, emeralds, sapphires amethysts, garnets, peridot, spinel, iolites and cat’s eyes were all popular, and many more besides.” There were many factors which went into determining a particular gemstone’s popularity, including availability, price, and social and cultural cachet. Jewellery worn reflected a hierarchal and status-conscious society and, like today, size and colour were determining factors of a gemstone’s value. However, jewellery was not only regarded as a status symbol but also possessed sentimental value as it does now.

The Hoard contains many personal possessions, like the Stafford Intaglio, which would have been passed down from generation to generation.

Among the Hoard’s rarest and most ornate objects is a gold scent bottle which has been set with opaline chalcedony plaques, rubies, pink sapphires and diamonds. Exquisitely executed, it was specifically designed to contain perfume made from flower distillations and spices. In celebration of its artistry, the museum has commissioned perfumer Roja Dove to recreate the perfume which may have been contained inside. Combining lavender and frankincense among other notes, visitors will not only be transported back to Elizabethan and Early Stuart London through their eyes but also through their noses.

Religion was of paramount importance in everyday life during the Elizabethan and the Jacobean eras and this was illustrated in the types of jewellery worn. The Hoard has several pieces which feature religious iconography including a pendant reliquary in the form of a cross. Decorated with flowers and leaves in cloisonné enamels, it perfectly

captures the Renaissance ideal for art and antiquity. The fact that the pendant is the most common type of jewel in the Hoard also attests to its great popularity during this period.

According to Forsyth, certain gems were also believed to have magical properties. The toadstone, for example, was supposed to be an antidote for poison; its powers are alluded to by contemporary playwright William Shakespeare in his Comedy As You Like It: “Which, like the toad, ugly and venomous / Wears yet a precious jewel in the head.” Mary Queen of Scots notably wore the stone to prevent herself from assassination but, as history has taught us, this didn’t save her from her unfortunate demise.

Its name derives from the belief that the stone came from the amphibian itself when, in fact, it originates from the fossil fish, Lepidotus Maximus.

Another stone worthy of mention is the bloodstone carved into the shape of a strawberry leaf, which is one of the most potent within the Cheapside Hoard. Forsyth explains: “It carries many messages, both secular and religious from sentimentality to love, health and religious devotion.

The three pronged shape represents the Holy Trinity; the red flecks represent the blood of Christ, whilst the bloodstone amulets were carried to help treat cardiac and circulatory problems.” Gemstones were typically held to have therapeutic virtues.

Another popular fashion trend revealed in the Hoard, which is also indicative of the age’s passion for opulence and splendour, is the use of enamelling. This special technique employed by 17th century craftsmen emphasises the supreme levels of creative talent and manufacturing techniques of the clandestine world of Elizabethan and Jacobean jewellers. Forsyth acknowledges how “many of the skills of the cutters, setters, mounters and enamellers cannot be replicated today”. This is highlighted clearly in the exhibition’s most show-stopping piece; a watch set in a single Colombian emerald crystal, c.1600. Emerald is known for being

FEATURE

a particularly difficult stone to cut and it is therefore remarkable how the cutters managed to form the perfect, single hexagonal emerald crystal. Featuring an enamelled dial plate and a circular gold suspension loop and button which secure the movements at the base, the cutting-edge design presents the watch as the iPod of its generation. However, the question which still flummoxes Forsyth and other such experts to this day is: “How did these stones reach London?”

Running the risk of sounding prurient, I ask the curator whether the whole truth surrounding the

The most show-stopping piece is a watch set in a single Colombian emerald crystal Cheapside Hoard will ever be truly answered. Although she cannot say for certain, Forsyth is confident that the new exhibition shall be the necessary catalyst for launching the Hoard onto an international platform, resulting in further breakthroughs. The exhibition is being co-sponsored by Gemfields, the leading authority on coloured gemstones, and Fabergé, a historic jewellery house revered for its craftsmanship and use of precious materials. Forsyth’s own book on the subject, London’s Lost Jewels: The Cheapside Hoard, is being

released on 30 September.

In the meantime, the new exhibition presents an unparalleled collection of jewellery as well as demonstrating the wider landscape of Elizabethan and early Stuart London and those individuals and communities involved in the trade.

While the pieces can be predominantly traced back to the Elizabethan and Jacobean eras, there are some which date as far back as the Egyptian and Byzantine periods, including a cameo profile bust of a Ptolemaic queen (most probably Cleopatra), dating between 43-200 AD and which would have been in circulation for the best part of the 16th century before becoming part of the Hoard.

Like any historical story worth its weight in gold, the Cheapside Hoard tells the tale of kings and queens, murder and intrigue, sorcery and treasure. Forsyth, for one, hopes that the exhibition “will open people’s eyes to a ‘new world’ of intrigue and wonder”.

While I cannot speak for the rest of you, my eyes have certainly been opened.

The Cheapside Hoard: London’s Lost Jewels is on display at the Museum of London 11 October – 27 April 2014; museumoflondon.org.uk

From top/ Stoney Jack; Sardonyx cameo of Ptolemaic queen, possibly Cleopatra Opposite from top/ Reliquary diptych locket depicting head of Christ and the Virgin Mary; Bloodstone carved into the form of a strawberry leaf; Colombian emerald watch All images © Museum of London

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Unless it’s a new dimension of accuracy.

No fewer than four exceptional mechanisms enhance the precision of the RICHARD LANGE TOURBILLON “Pour le Mérite”: the tiny fusée-and-chain transmission, the delicate tourbillon, the ultra-thin Lange balance spring, and – not least – the patented stop-seconds device for the tourbillon which makes it possible to

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08.02.2012 15:52:48 Uhr

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& Multiply Go forth

Multiplied returns to Christie’s South Kensington in October for the fourth year. REBECCA WALLERSTEINER reports on the Contemporary Art in Editions fair

Above/ Hiroshi Tanabe’s Rebecca Olsson’s Cyber-surf Couture, 2000, courtesy of the Fashion Illustration Gallery, London

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OCTOBER IS NOT ONLY the season of mists and

During the 1980s and 90s, whilst I was working for him, Freud became increasingly passionate about printmaking and regarded etchings as artworks in their own right. At that time he also became more interested in fashion illustration; apart from his daughter Bella being a fashion designer, he was painting the outrageous 80s performance artist Leigh Bowery who had worked in this field. As a young man Freud had drawn the renowned fashion illustrator Christian Bérard, who had worked for grande dames of fashion Coco Chanel, Elsa Schiaparelli and Nina Ricci in the 1930s and 40s. Other well-known artists who began their careers as fashion illustrators include Andy Warhol and Cecil Beaton.

To find out more about this area of art and why it has been comparatively overlooked, despite having been around for 500 years, I arrive at the Mayor Gallery on Cork Street to interview William Ling, Director of the Fashion Illustration Gallery (FIG). Precisely spoken but charismatic and austere, Ling shows me around his gallery.

A former student at Saint Martin’s School of Art, after graduating he taught at his Alma Mater for three years in order to raise money to hold his own art exhibitions. Ling left Saint Martin’s after his eldest daughter was born to earn a living to keep his family.

He has been married for 25 years to his wife, artist and fashion illustrator Tanya Ling and will be including her paintings on paper in Multiplied 2013.

Ling is keen to point out that fashion illustration is a relatively neglected area of art. “Original fashion illustrations commissioned to be reproduced are often very beautiful and desirable as works of art in their own right. However once reproduced these works are often either discarded or placed in the back of a studio drawer and forgotten,” he explains. Almost since the time clothes were invented there has been a need to interpret an idea or image into a fashion drawing. Early in the 20th century fashion illustration embraced new, liberating currents in art and culture, such as the costumes for the Ballet Russes, while the post-war period drew inspiration from the great Parisian couturiers. Celebrity photographers may have dominated the 1960s but now a new generation of illustrators, such as David Downton and Zoe Taylor have emerged, drawing from a long history and traditional techniques.

Ling asks if I would like to see fashion illustrations created by some of the artists he represents, and I would.

He takes out an elegant cream folder and carefully peels back the tissue covering the individual fashion designs, unveiling a visual feast. All the artists he represents

mellow fruitfulness but it also offers high points in the international art calendar, with London’s famous Frieze Art Fair attracting high profile galleries, celebrity artists and glamorous clients, as well as sparking a great deal of public interest and excitement. If you daydream about owning a unique piece of artwork but your budget doesn’t quite stretch to buying a Lucian Freud drawing or Eduardo Paolozzi sculpture, don’t despair. You can still buy an original work of art without bankrupting yourself in the process if you approach dealers representing up-andcoming artists, or those who specialise in prints that tend to be less expensive than drawings and paintings.

This autumn, to coincide with Frieze, the contemporary print fair Multiplied returns to Christie’s South Kensington for its fourth year. Murray Macaulay, Multiplied’s director, explains that, “whereas the art on show in Frieze Week costs thousands and hundreds of thousands of pounds, the art for sale at Christie’s South Kensington is still affordable to collectors with more modest incomes, with prices ranging from £10 to £30,000.”

A total of 40 galleries from around the world, including the Artist Proof Studio (Johannesburg), Highpoint Editions (Minneapolis), Robert Blackburn Printmaking Workshop (New York) and the Fashion Illustration Gallery (London), will be presenting a mix of new and established talent at Multiplied, showcasing a range of skills from traditional printmaking and photography to the less ubiquitous 3D printing, fashion illustration and digital art. This year’s Multiplied Pop-up Café by William Norris and Company will provide a good place to meet up with art-loving friends.

Although artists have given me prints, sculptures and photographs over the years, my collection doesn’t include much fashion illustration, apart from a treasured white T-shirt (now rather grey!) given to me by Lucian Freud, imprinted with his drawing of a curled-up girl. This wasn’t his only venture into fashion illustration; he also designed his daughter Bella’s fashion label logo, depicting his beloved whippet Pluto with her tongue hanging out.

Multiplied 2013 will showcase fashion illustration, 3D printing, photography and digital art

Th

/ Rachel Goodyear,

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o

2006, courtesy of Vital Arts, London

o o ro o / Guy Allott, o o , 2013, courtesy of Grey Area Multiples, Paris; Jacky Tsai, r on r n, 2013, courtesy of Eyestorm, London; Carolyn Bunt, n n oo on , 2012, courtesy of CFPR Editions, Bristol; Gerald Laing, o , 2007, courtesy of Sims Reed, London; Joe Webb, o on , 2013, courtesy of CCA Galleries, London; Harland Miller, o o n , 2012, courtesy of Ingleby Gallery Edinburgh; Tanya Ling, o on nn r , 2010, courtesy of Fashion Illustrated Gallery

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are very different. The illustrations he presents by David Downton, Daisy de Villeneuve, Hiroshi Tanabe, François Berthoud, Zoe Taylor, René Gruau and his wife Tanya are all well-drawn and startle with their originality, freshness and vitality. It doesn’t come as a surprise to me when he tells me that they have been featured in Vogue and other leading fashion publications. My favourite of the designs he shows me must be the exquisitely drawn, mysterious gloved-hand and cocktail glass by David Downton, who is currently the celebrity artist for Vanity Fair. Hiroshi Tanabe’s work has won gold awards from the Art Directors Club of New York.

What inspired Ling to form FIG? “As we sell fashion illustrations we don’t have a natural home but, as you can see, the drawing and painting in the work of these artists is high quality. They are world class, affordable and highly collectable,” says Ling. Fashion illustration has tended to be overlooked by the art market.

“Our fashion illustrations are

“Some think that the subject is superficial but it is only superficially superficial and actually reflects much about the moment; society, culture and ideas about beauty,” he explains. “The sifting process that starts with a young hopeful illustrator, sitting with their portfolio in the foyer of Vogue House hoping for an appointment with the creative director, ensures that only those with the greatest talent progress and claim our attention,” he adds.

Ling also deals in elegant drawings by the 20th century’s greatest fashion illustrator, René Gruau, (1909 -2004), whose work has recently enjoyed a huge resurgence of interest. His dramatic, sweeping black lines and bold, solid colour signalled optimism and opulence after World War II. Given the quality of his brushstrokes it does not surprise me when Ling tells me that Gruau was hired by the iconic couturiers Christian Dior, Elizabeth Arden, Givenchy, Shiaperelli and Balenciaga. Ling played a key part in helping the V&A to revitalise its collection of fashion illustrations; the museum acquired pieces from almost every artist with whom he works, including Barbara Hulanicki, Julie Verhoeven and Marko Matysik.

Perhaps I had better not put my Freud T-shirt in the washing machine then; it might be a collector’s item.

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Multiplied 2013, 18-21 October Christie’s South Kensington, 85 Old Brompton Road, SW7 multipliedartfair.com fashionillustrationgallery.com

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QUINTESSENTIAL BRITISH LEATHER GOODS SINCE 1934

The Bullion Collection www.ettinger.co.uk Tel: +44 (0)20 8877 1616

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THE ICONS OF STYLE From Dame Elizabeth Taylor to Lily Safra, some of the most celebrated female style icons of the 20th century have been remembered not just for their enviable wardrobes but also for their coveted jewellery collections. While many of us may never own such priceless precious jewels, we can still admire their extraordinary beauty in a new book being released this October. 20th Century Jewelry and The Icons of Style reveals the stories behind the jewels and their collectors from authors and leading jewellery experts Stefano Papi and Alexandra Rhodes, as well as close-up shots, illustrations and portraits of the women themselves by Beaton, Horst and other renowned photographers of the time.

20th Century Jewelry and The Icons of Style Available 28 October (ÂŁ35; thamesandhudson.com)

A photograph by Cecil Beaton of Daisy Fellowes in 1941 Image courtesy of Cecil Beaton Studio Archive, Sotheby’s

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Illustration: Mai Osawa

THE ROYAL

BOROUGH

Images courtesy of: paimages.co.uk

Mind the Gap

Royal Hospital Concerts The RHC Concerts autumn series will take place from 25 September until 20 November in The Wren Chapel at the Royal Hospital Chelsea. This year marks the tenth anniversary of these concerts and the celebratory programme features works from a diverse range of composers, including Mozart, Schubert and Bach. Benjamin Britten’s centenary will be honoured with a performance of his 1957 mini opera Noye’s Fludde, starring both amateur and professional musicians alongside pupils from local schools. Other highlights include the Zemlinsky Quartet from the Czech Republic and the David Rees-Williams Trio, an eclectic three-piece band combining jazz and classical music.

The Royal Hospital Chelsea Royal Hospital Road, SW3 4SR theatre503.com/rhc

Many a time will a Londoner complain that they feel as though they live on the tube, but, with the recent announcement of the sale of Brompton Road Station, this could soon become less a complaint and more a reality. In use as a station between 1906 and 1934, Brompton Road Station was closed down due to a lack of passengers. It subsequently served as the anti-Luftwaffe command centre during the Blitz and it is thought that Hitler’s deputy Rudolph Hess was questioned there.

It has been used by the MoD since the 1950s and is being sold as part of the department’s cost-cutting efforts.

The station is expected to sell for around £20 million and is likely to become a residential property. Nestled between Harrods and the Victoria and Albert Museum, and overlooking the magnificent Brompton Oratory, the location takes some beating.

It could also be a novel way to beat the commuting hoardes (although we should point out to prospective buyers that the platforms will unfortunately still belong to Transport for London!)

SPOTLIGHT ON... THE ROYAL BOROUGH OF KENSINGTON & CHELSEA: NEWS, EVENTS, REVIEWS & LOCAL INTEREST STORIES

SPOTLIGHT

Across the Bridge Zaha Hadid, the brains behind the now iconic Olympic Park’s Aquatics Centre, has lent her artistic eye to the cause of designing a new wing for the Serpentine Gallery, set to open on 28 September.

Located just five minutes’ walk from the original gallery in Kensington Gardens, across the Serpentine Bridge, the Sackler Gallery is on the site of a former 1805 gunpowder store.

Featuring a futuristic extension to complement the original Grade II-listed building, the Sackler Gallery is the first permanent central London structure designed by Hadid’s firm, Zaha Hadid Architects, and will house a restaurant and social space as well as the gallery. The first exhibition will be a collection of large-scale sculptural works

by Argentinian artist Adrián Villar Rojas, who has exhibited all over the world, and his installations are renowned for their uniqueness and audacity.

Serpentine Sackler Gallery by Zaha Hadid Architects © Zaha Hadid Architects

Sloane Street Goes Live We can now announce that the online website dedicated to Sloane Street has gone live. As one of the world’s most exclusive shopping streets, home to the biggest international fashion brands as well as luxury five star hotels, the owners of Sloane Street felt it was about time the area was given its own exclusive platform. The international portal enables visitors to get insider information on and around the street and also includes interviews and profiles of renowned individuals and tips on the best things to see and buy. Check it out now.

Serpentine Gallery, Kensington Gardens, W2 3XA serpentinegallery.org

Six Dresses As part of its Meet the Experts series, Kensington Palace Gardens is hosting an evening lesson on the history and evolution of royal wedding dresses on September 30. The event will include an illustrated talk on six royal wedding dresses in the care of HRP, including the satin and lace dress designed by Sarah Burton, of Alexander McQueen, famously worn by the Duchess of Cambridge in 2011. Participants will also be privy to a private view of Queen Victoria’s wedding dress, and learn from the specialists about the material and its construction.

Kensington Palace Kensington Gardens W8 4PX hrp.org.uk/KensingtonPalace

sloanestreet.co.uk

Born to Run Thousands of runners will once again be sprinting through the Royal Borough on 6 October for the sixth annual Royal Parks Half Marathon. The 16,000 participants will run around the most scenic parts of the capital, including Hyde Park and our very own Kensington Gardens. The route also takes in Buckingham Palace, as well as views of the Houses of Parliament and the Royal Albert Hall. Celebrity runners include Katherine Jenkins, who is acting as an ambassador for the Royal Parks Foundation and fundraising for The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity. So far the race has raised more than £15 million for 455 charities. For the more hardcore athletes, the Royal Parks Foundation Ultra, comrpising a 50-kilometre run, takes place on the same day. Spectators at both events can enjoy a farmers’ market, live music and family entertainment. royalparkshalf.com

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Scarlett Fever

Music in the Square

In the centenary year of her birth, the V&A has acquired the archive of British actress Vivien Leigh, best known for her Academy Award-winning portrayals of Scarlett O’Hara in Gone with the Wind and Blanche DuBois in A Streetcar Named Desire. The collection includes love letters between Laurence Olivier and Leigh, alongside correspondence from Winston Churchill, Marilyn Monroe and Tennessee Williams. The archive also features Leigh’s diary from the age of 16 up to her death in 1967, as well as personal photographs, annotated film and theatre scripts, press clippings and the visitors’ book from Leigh and Olivier’s Notley Abbey Home in Buckinghamshire, with signatories including Judy Garland and Humphrey Bogart. The archive was donated to the V&A by Leigh’s grandchildren and will be on display soon (date to be confirmed).

Back for its 14th year, the Eaton Square Concerts offer music lovers the opportunity to listen to a combination of renowned professional musicians and emerging new talent in beautiful surroundings. Award-winning pianist Tom Poster will take to the floor on 17 October with a varied set including pieces by Beethoven, Gershwin and Stravinsky. The concerts will feature performances of Ravel from the Artesian Quartet, this year’s St Peter’s Prize winners, and Brahms from Royal Academy of Music students, as well as a concert by the Trusler Carroll Wass Trio, an exciting collaboration between violinist Matthew Trusler, cellist Thomas Carroll and pianist Ashley Wass. It’s certainly music to our ears.

10 October – 14 November St Peter’s Church, 119 Eaton Square, SW1W 9AL eatonsquareconcerts.org.uk

vam.ac.uk

Above/ Programme for A Streetcar Named Desire starring Vivien Leigh at Aldwych Theatre, 1949 Vivien Leigh with Laurence Olivier, date unknown.

Photographer unknown © Victoria and Albert Museum, London

Viva España Film buffs will be delighted to learn that the London Spanish Film Festival is returning to Ciné Lumière for its ninth year from 27 September to 9 October. Bringing many Spanish films to British screens for the first time, festival highlights include Fernando Colomo’s La Banda Picasso and Los Mundos Sutiles, Eduardo Chapero Jackon’s documentary on the poet Antonio Machado.

The festival will have designated events for Catalan and Basque cinema, the former including a presentation

by Javier Cámara, from Almodovar’s recent film I’m so Excitied! Film screenings will take place at Ciné Lumière in SW7 and the Instituto Cervantes in Belgravia.

Ciné Lumière, 17 Queensberry Place, SW7 2DT londonspanishfilmfestival.com

Industrial Gold Industrial ships, oil rigs and mining sites are rarely the subject of artistic works, yet looking at the powerful paintings from Anne Penman Sweet’s upcoming exhibition it’s surprising that they’re not. Running at the Stephanie Hoppen Gallery (3-24 October), Deep Seas, Steel Stars features a collection of paintings which reflect the Australianborn artist’s fascination with the power of industry. Penman Sweet uses industrial superstructures as her objet d’art, using a Turner-esque backdrop to highlight their dynamism and scale, with the result that the ordinary becomes extraordinary.

Stephanie Hoppen Gallery 17 Walton Street, SW3 2HX stephaniehoppen.com

SPOTLIGHT ON... THE ROYAL BOROUGH OF KENSINGTON & CHELSEA: NEWS, EVENTS, REVIEWS & LOCAL INTEREST STORIES

SPOTLIGHT Josh Cole, Manila Rain

Take a Walk on the Wild Side

Pandemonium Mary McCartney, Alison Jackson and Pandemonia will join host Donna Air for a charity auction at the Royal College of Art on 23 September. Now in its seventh year, the Macmillan De’Longhi Art Exhibition is an annual event to raise money for cancer sufferers in the UK. The collection, donated by a combination of artists and socialites, includes works by Ringo Starr, Rankin and Gavin Turk, and will be sold via silent and live auctions. For the first time this year members of the public will be able to view and bid on the collection before the main auction from 20 until 22 September.

This October sees the return of the (wildly) popular Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition at the Natural History Museum, which showcases work by all 100 finalists from the prestigious annual competition, as well as the hotly-anticipated winning images. Now in its 49th year, the competition has continued to go from strength to strength, with the 2013 event attracting 43,000 entries across 96 countries from both amateur and professional photographers.

Running from 18 October this year until 23 March 2014, the show aims to celebrate the diversity of life on our planet while highlighting the fragility of nature. Images are chosen by an expert panel for their creativity, artistry and technical complexity. nhm.ac.uk

macmillan.org.uk

Pearls of Spring, Solvin Zankl (Germany)

Fun at the Fair

All images © Jordan Sullivan

On 10 October, the Hurlingham Club in Fulham will play host to Asthma UK’s annual Gift Fair. With more than 70 stalls, offering everything from artwork and antiques to fashion and food, the pre-Christmas shopping event is expected to attract more than 800 visitors, including HRH the Duchess of Gloucester, who has visited the fair in previous years.

There is a private viewing the day before the Fair starts for those who wish to browse with a glass of wine before the event officially opens to the public. Now in its 31st year, the Gift Fair has raised more than £1 million for Asthma UK, providing help and support to the 5.4 million asthma sufferers in the UK. The Hurlingham Club Ranelagh Gardens, SW6 3PR asthma.org.uk/events/asthmagiftfair

Icelandic Tales The latest book by American photographer Jordan Sullivan will be available from the end of this month from The Little Black Gallery, alongside limited edition prints of photographs from the book.

The Young Earth uses photographs and first-person narrative text to tell the story of two friends, one of whom is terminally ill. Sullivan uses the ethereal, rugged Icelandic landscape to highlight the inner thoughts and fears of the two friends. The Young Earth is published by Peter Hay Halpert Fine Art and will be released on 31 October.

The Little Black Gallery, 13A Park Walk, SW10 0AJ thelittleblackgallery.com

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Spotlight on...

Fulham Road OLIVIA SHARPE discovers the Royal Borough’s answer to the Burlington Arcade on the Fulham Road AT FIRST GLANCE, it could be said that the Fulham Road lacks a clear identity. With its mixed bag of fashion boutiques, restaurants, antique shops, local convenience stores, cinema and hospital, it presents a hotchpotch of different shops and services which, while making it an ideal spot for any local, has meant that it has never been given equal recognition to its two Chelsea rivals, the King’s Road (running in parallel) and Sloane Street. However, there you’ll find an entire medley of antique and furniture stores which arguably compete with those found in Mayfair’s historic Burlington Arcade. Indeed, you’ll be hard-pressed to find bargains or cheap knock-offs; instead there is a wealth of rare and precious objects from across the globe which champion art, design and craftsmanship.

Standing proud like finely-polished toy soldiers along the lengthy stretch of road are some of the biggest names in the world of furniture and interior design including Philippe Hurel, Francis Sultana and OKA. In 1911, Maurice Gouget (grandfather of Philippe Hurel) founded La Fabrique de Meubles de Coulombs and in 1968, Philippe Hurel was integrated with this classic furniture and design company (which has created designs with the likes of Christian Liaigre whose studio is also based here) before striking out on its own and presenting its first collection in 1987. More than a quarter of a century later, the brand’s name is internationally renowned and the London flagship remains in Chelsea to this day. As well as bespoke services, the Fulham Road has a vast array of specialist stores catering to various aspects of design; on either side of Philippe Hurel sit Mark Roger (a specialist in the supply and installation of home flooring) and Collier Webb (a window accessories, lighting furniture mounts and restoration company).

While the Fulham Road has its fair share of international offerings, it also has roots in British design and craftsmanship. Jewellery designer Theo Fennell, for instance, began his career in the historic epicentre of the jewellery and diamond trade, Hatton Garden (where he learnt the ancient art of smithing) before opening his eponymous company in Chelsea in 1982.

More than three decades later, he is recognised as the foremost contemporary jewellery and silverware designer, last year winning the prestigious accolade for Best Luxury Craftsmanship at the Walpole Awards for Excellence (which seek to honour and promote the highest calibre of British luxury commerce and industry). Emblazoned with the designer’s name in his signature pink

Photography: Issy Croker

SPOTLIGHT

THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK

ART DECO Michelin House 81 Fulham Road, SW3 6RD 020 7589 1480 bibendum.co.uk

SILVER LINING

BEST OF BRITISH Theo Fennell 169 Fulham Road, SW3 6SP 020 7591 5000 theofennell.com

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The Jewel in the Crown

Something Old Butler & Wilson 189 Fulham Road, SW3 6JN 020 7352 30451 butlerandwilson.co.uk

Here Comes the Bride

Something New The Wedding Shop 171 Fulham Road, SW3 6JW 020 7384 8485 weddingshop.com

Across the Channel

French artisan Philippe Hurel 122 Fulham Road, SW3 6HU 020 7373 1133 philippe-hurel.com

SPOTLIGHT

lettering, the store shines out as a beacon of exemplary design, housing not only the boutique but the in-house workshop and its ten fully-trained craftsmanship, each skilled in either mounting, engraving or smithing.

Fellow silversmith and jewellery designer Patrick Mavros has been welcomed with open arms by the British public, and indeed the Royal family, ever since he opened his Chelsea store. The self-taught Zimbabwean-born carver and sculptor is best known for his African-inspired silver creations, many of which will apparently be ending up in the new home of HRH Duke and Duchess of Cambridge; friends of the royal couple have reportedly purchased gifts from Mavros to herald the arrival of the new baby.

Across the road from Theo Fennell lies the Fulham Road’s most iconic building. Reaching its centenary two years ago, the Michelin House building was commissioned by the Tyre company in 1909. The impressive architectural structure, now a Chelsea landmark, pays homage to Art Deco, Art Nouveau and Secessionist Functionalism, among other styles. Originally owned by the French company, it has since passed into British hands after being bought by the English designer Sir Terence Conran in 1985. Following the acquisition, the building went through an extensive overhaul and now houses the Oyster Bar and restaurant Bibendum which, once part of the Conran Empire, is now its own independent entity. In recognition of its dual heritage, head chef Matthew Harris has created a menu which channels both English and French cuisine.

Stella McCartney’s Fulham Road store is one of just two in London (the other is in Mayfair) and if it’s fashion you’re after, you’ve come to the right place. American luxury lifestyle brand Ralph Lauren’s first international store in London opened its doors in 1981 in what was formerly a pharmacy, purposefully chosen for its original Art Deco architectural features which evoke the ‘old school’ gentleman’s aesthetic. The road is also home to some top couturiers and wedding dress designers, including Phillipa Lepley, David Fielden and Amanda Wakeley. An OBE holder and winner of three British Fashion Awards, Wakeley has been based in Chelsea ever since she launched her signature label in 1990 and it was only this year that the designer decided to spread her wings with the opening of her second boutique in Mayfair.

Brides-to-be should head straight to The Wedding Shop, considered to be the longest established wedding list provider, and for ‘something old’, there’s always Butler & Wilson; founder Simon Wilson began his jewellery business from a market stall on the King’s Road before progressing to his first standalone store on the Fulham Road in 1972. A treasure trove of semiprecious and Swarovski-encrusted vintage jewellery, accessories and clothing, the shop has been frequented by British icons such as Princess Diana and Kate Moss. Similarly to Butler & Wilson, rare books and first editions store Peter Harrington also made a permanent home for itself on the Fulham Road in 1997 after several years of successful selling at the Chelsea Antiques Market on the King’s Road.

One of the Royal Borough’s hidden treasures, the Fulham Road is not only a collector’s menagerie of rare antique objects but also a hive of industry grounded in the best of art, design and craftsmanship.

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No Man Is An Island ANNABEL HARRISON finds out more about the important work of the Kensington & Chelsea Foundation within the Royal Borough and how it creates opportunities for those lacking funds, skill and advice DID YOU KNOW THAT the proportion of state school pupils receiving free school meals in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea is double the national average? Did you realise that London’s second most deprived ward, where 41 per cent of its children live in child poverty (double the UK average) is Golborne in North Kensington? Can you believe that there is an 11-year discrepancy in life expectancy between the north and south of the borough, or that 62 per cent of K&C residents over the age of 65 live alone?

I must confess that I didn’t know any of this and I’d wager that many of you don’t either. Many parts of the Royal Borough are considered the most beautiful in London, highly sought-after places in which to live, shop, work and learn, so it’s a sharp dichotomy to take in. However, a nucleus of passionate people are dedicating every day to improving the lives of those less fortunate, led by director Diana Spiegelberg since May. “These statistics certainly jar with the image that most people have of the borough,” Diana confirms “and they really struck me when I started work here; privilege is far from universal. On the positive side, extraordinary small charities are working to address these disparities but many of them are unknown to local residents, and few national funders will prioritise an area such as this.”

Diana’s previous role was head of Development and Learning at live music producer Serious, where much of her focus was on new business development.

I can see why Diana would have been an ideal choice for the challenging and dynamic role which arose at the Kensington & Chelsea Foundation. “I suppose I’m used to making a lot happen with limited resources and remaining calm on the night. Alongside producing large scale concerts at prestigious venues, Serious developed an extensive programme of learning and participation working in partnership with schools and community groups across the country so I’ve had to build partnerships between organisations of all kinds and juggle a complex funding mix.”

Founded in 2008 by Jeremy Raphaely (now a trustee), the Kensington & Chelsea Foundation has raised more than £1.4 million so far, resulting in 120 grants for 50 local charities. It aims to raise awareness of the stark contrasts that exist within our borough, linking residents and businesses with local charities to improve life for everyone, and highlighting the work of inspirational charities working tirelessly to address inequalities. Diana explains further: “We are a source of expert knowledge and advice. We work with local residents and businesses to generate support for small local charities, encouraging people to get involved with their local community. And this is only part of the story; we have supported dozens more through ‘in kind’ contributions, making new connections, securing pro-bono support from skilled professionals and kick-starting new local initiatives.”

SPOTLIGHT

While founder Jeremy has of course already done a great deal – “it takes a huge amount of commitment and single-mindedness to get an organisation like this off the ground from scratch” – Diana’s job is to take the Foundation forward into its next phase of development, raising its profile to ensure long-term sustainability. She’d love local residents to get involved, for example, with the Winter Warmth campaign in November. “We encourage those who can to donate their winter fuel allowance so we can redirect them to those who need them most. Last year we raised more than £20,000, which meant that fewer elderly residents had to choose between heating and food, but there is still so much more we can do.”

“The Foundation aims to raise awareness of the stark contrasts that exist within our borough” If you’re interested in helping a particular age group or social issue, the Foundation can identify local charities that are the best fit. Because the approach is donor-led, the team is very keen to help you find local charities that mean the most to you. Diana points out “that 100 per cent of any donations that we secure go via the Foundation to local charities and we provide valuable reassurance and follow up for donors. Local residents can also get involved as volunteers or by doing pro-bono work. Over the last year, we’ve arranged for more than 150 skilled people to volunteer at local charities.”

Diana cites a specific experience as having strengthened her convictions about the merits of supporting local causes. “I attended the opening of Full of Life’s new building in North Kensington on my first day. At this parent-led centre for disabled young people, I was greeted enthusiastically and struck by the incredibly supportive environment that Full of Life’s team has created. It was fantastic to hear what a difference the Foundation’s support has made.” One’s

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own personality and attitude are undoubtedly critical in this role and Diana’s personal motto is No Man Is An Island. “For me the words of John Donne’s poem convey the value that I aspire to live by. In essence, it’s about realising that we are all connected and affected by each other’s actions and circumstances; ‘ask not for whom the bell tolls, it tolls for thee.’”

Diana points out something that we could all do well to remember: “The busy nature of our daily routines makes it all too easy for us to miss the work that is taking place on our doorsteps.” Yet there are extraordinary stories just around the corner; St Cuthbert’s in Earl’s Court feeds more than 80 homeless people on a daily basis and the mental health charity SMART, behind Chelsea & Westminster Hospital, provides outstanding training and support of all kinds. “Do buy its floristry students’ fantastic flowers from SMART’s stall in the hospital.” It seems every little really does help.

By becoming a Foundation Friend (annual fee of £100 to £500) you’ll join a growing community of engaged residents and businesses, receive regular updates about local charities, and invitations to events and tours to see the work of local charities in action. For more information, call 020 7229 5499 or visit thekandcfoundation.com Diana with some young people from the Venture Centre

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ART ANTIQUES

BY CAROL CORDREY

Art inspired by war, peace and the desire to push boundaries will bring shivers of excitement to this new season of “mists and mellow fruitfulness” (Keats) Art Wars Commence Turner Prize winners and nominees, including Damien Hirst and Jake Chapman, BP Portrait Award prize winner Antony Micallef and other internationally famous artists lead a star-studded troop of artists who have taken “the path to the Dark Side” to transform Star Wars Stormtrooper helmets into unique works of art. The helmets have been produced from the original moulds created by Andrew Ainsworth for the legendary film because he is keen to support this new Art Wars project launched by Ben Moore in partnership with the Missing People charity. The transformed helmets will be auctioned and the proceeds directed to the Missing Tom fund as Tom, the brother of Ben Moore, has been missing for ten years despite enormous efforts by Ben and his family to trace him. Moore, the founder of Art Below, which promotes art using billboard space in underground stations in London and other global cities, is hugely appreciative of the commitment to Art Wars by the artists, Andrew Ainsworth and the Missing People charity. “I’m very excited about raising awareness, not just for my brother Tom’s disappearance but also for the Missing People charity and its work”.

The helmets can be viewed at the inaugural STRARTA art fair at the Saatchi Gallery and they will be promoted on billboards in Regent’s Park Underground station to coincide with Frieze Art Fair. May the force be with Damien Hirst and his colleagues as they strike back at the art world with helmets that look set to achieve iconic status, while helping a great cause.

STRARTA Art Fair missingtom.com

from left/ Artemis; Aphrodite

The Cosmos On Canvas In the past year the cosmos has been at the forefront of many of our minds as a result of Felix Baumgartner’s recordbreaking skydive from space, the sad death of the much loved broadcaster and astronomer Sir Patrick Moore, and the recent announcement of Major Tim Peake as Britain’s first official astronaut. Now it falls to artist Charlie Barton to ensure that we remain deeply committed to the universe, which she will surely do with her new, hauntingly beautiful painted compositions.

Barton’s work has been keenly sought after by high profile figures including top interior designers, the Earl and Countess of Wessex, James Sainsbury and the late Sir Patrick Moore who paid this impressive tribute to her earlier work: “Charlie shows the moon in a new perspective; she makes its lure even more irresistible”. This only serves to strengthen my opinion that her interpretation of new ways of looking at it will fly out of the doors of the Osborne Studio Gallery.

Charlie Barton, 23 October – 8 November; osg.uk.com

David Bailey with his creation of a Stormtrooper helmet

Q&A with Guy Portelli, sculptor and organiser of Chelsea’s inaugural STRARTA art fair

Q: What was your rationale for starting this art fair and how will it differ from others in London?

A: In a single word, passion: to showcase great art in a great building in a great location in a great city. The King’s Road has been central to the global art and fashion world for five decades and this is the energy we want to tap into.

Q: What mix can we expect of British and international galleries?

A: A strong London representation, but we’re also very excited at the diversity of the artists

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and galleries on show who are coming from India, Singapore, Europe and Australia.

The different cultures speak to each other.

Q: Will we see emerging as well as established artists working in various media?

A: Yes, the selection has been at both ends of the spectrum – the high profile artists and emerging ones – because having them both gives a credibility to the name STRARTA which encompasses the full depth and breadth of art.

Some very innovative art forms and materials will be pushing the boundaries, as will some

more traditional ones. It’s still possible to find new ways of using paint or bronze, for example.

Q: Have you planned any special events for visitors to the fair, such as focused talks?

A: We are ticking all the boxes – cultural and social – and a big part of that is our Event Space where we will have formal and informal talks, meetings and lectures on collecting art.

Music and fashion will be strong themes also.

STRARTA at the Saatchi Gallery 9-13 October, strarta.com

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Clockwise from top/ Comdia; Visage; Poisson

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ART ANTIQUES

Eating Out of Picasso’s Hands

For The Finishing Touch…

Head to Battersea Park for the autumn version of the popular Decorative Antiques & Textiles Fair, which will be opening its doors to the public, celebrities and international designers looking for items to make their design schemes extra special. There will be more than 140 specialist dealers showing off their finest and most unusual pieces from the entire landscape of design, ranging across centuries of creativity involving textiles, furniture, glass, lighting, folk art, ceramics, industrial pieces and sculpture. The impressive array of regular visitors to this event includes world-famous names such as Sir Paul Smith, Nicky Haslam, Kelly Hoppen, Candy & Candy, Olga Polizzi and Ralph Lauren Home; whilst celebrities Jemima Khan, Nigel Havers and Michael McIntyre ensure that they, too, are among the first to snap up some of the most desirable decorative items on display in London. And, for an absolute finishing touch to your visit, make sure you book a place at the inspirational talk and book signing (2 October) by the award-winning creator of sumptuous interiors, Alidad.

Decorative Antiques & Textiles Fair, 1-6 October Battersea Evolution, Battersea Park, SW11 4NJ decorativefair.com

In the late 1940s Pablo Picasso lived near Vallauris in the south of France and, always keen to experiment with varied media, he turned his hands to ceramics after an inspirational visit to the local Madoura Pottery workshop. The owners made the best decision of their lives in agreeing to let Picasso have free use of their studio and materials in exchange for them selling the great artist’s ceramic editions.

A selection of these pieces – plates, bowls, vases, pitchers and ashtrays – will be the star attraction at Bonhams in October.

Designs include Picasso’s characteristic and playful motifs such as mythological forms, primitive faces, animals and bullfights.

Any practical elements such as spouts and handles were wittily repositioned by Picasso to create facial or anatomical features on the dishes. This grand master of art delighted in creating ceramics which could be sold at prices to suit most budgets and, indeed, this is expected to be the case once more; Bonhams has attached estimates ranging from £500 to £6,000 for these wonderful artefacts.

Impressionist and Modern Art, 23 October Bonhams, Montpelier Street Knightsbridge, SW7 1HH bonhams.com

Life In Post-War Japan After achieving great acclaim for her first exhibition at the Michael Hoppen Gallery, established Japanese photographer Miyako Ishiuchi returns with another major show that brings post-war Japan into the heart of Chelsea. In 2005 the artist represented Japan at the Venice Biennale and she continues to captivate with her pictures chronicling the evolution of life witnessed by her in Japan since WW2. Although these are generally unpopulated images, Ishiuchi manages to focus our attention on the scars – physical or psychological – on Japan’s landscape and culture caused by major upheavals such as the presence of the Western military, the effects of Hiroshima, the demise of the previously vast silk industry and the growth of Western culture.

Her subjects may be simple and still but their titles lend them emotional charges so that, together, they hit the viewer like bolts of lightning. Worthy of special note are the lustrous skein of raw silk called Silken Dreams; the battered piece of clothing called Hiroshima, Dress; and the Japanese home interior peppered with Western items entitled Apartment.

Miyako Ishiuchi, 18 September – 31 October michaelhoppengallery.com

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A SUB-ZERO IS JUST A REFRIGERATOR, LIKE A DIAMOND IS JUST A STONE Iconic design. Enduring quality. Superior performance

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

Objects of

Devotion CAROL CORDREY steps back in time to explore Chinese works of art from millennia past, made comprehensible by expert curation at the V&A OTHER THAN ENJOYING moments on the BBC’s Antiques Roadshow when lovable specialist David Battie makes reference to the Ming period, I am sure that many of us find that talk of Chinese dynasties immerses us in a fog of otherworldly, undecipherable detail, rather like the complex Chinese language itself. So when I learnt that the V&A was to mount an exhibition of Chinese paintings created through numerous dynasties spanning no less than 1,200 years, I wondered if most of us could cope.

Fortunately, I’m able to report that the curators have done a first class job of making Masterpieces of Chinese Painting 700-1900 clear and immensely enjoyable, both aesthetically and historically, for anybody interested in Asian politics, astronomy, Buddhism, the natural world, philosophy or artistic practices. The show becomes essential viewing when I tell you that it consists of more than 70 exciting works of art, ranging from tiny painted fans to vast scrolls, which incorporate some of the earliest Chinese paintings ever created. Many are being shown outside Asia for the first time and others are considered to be such delicate treasures that their display will extend to just a few weeks before being rotated with other fascinating objects.

To ensure that we can appreciate this expansive evolution of Chinese painting, the displays are divided into six distinct sections, arranged chronologically and linked to dynastic changes, beginning with one entitled

Object of Devotion. Primarily, this gives us an insight into objects made for Buddhist tombs and temples during the period 700-950, such as votive offerings, banners and screens, typically painted in vivid colours on gorgeous silk. They exist today thanks to their emergence from remote Dunhuang, which managed to escape Buddhist persecution exercised by the Tang dynasty. In addition, this section includes a very rare, secular, illuminated scroll, Five Planets and Twenty-Eight Mansions, which is the earliest surviving painting of astronomy from the Imperial collection.

We are introduced next to Quest for Reality: 9501250 which focuses attention on the sudden interest in painting the natural world and landscapes, often in monochrome. Beautifully observed and detailed images of mountains, plants, animals, fishermen, changing weather and light conditions are highly impressive when they are applied to small scale fans or to larger artworks, such as Landscape with Pavilion or Nine Dragons, believed to be the oldest and finest dragon scroll which represents the forces of nature in Daoism, a philosophy which places emphasis on living in harmony.

This is succeeded by Embracing Solitude: 1250-1400 which highlights the output of monks and scholars who were skilled in the arts of painting, calligraphy and poetry.

It is a period of suppression by the Mongol Yuan dynasty so in addition to these groups, numerous educated

ART

Chinese adopted a reclusive life yet managed to express themselves through painting stylised rather than realistic figures that were cleverly loaded with literary, philosophical and personal references. This is exemplified by Fragrant Snow at Broken Bridge which features a plum tree that in Chinese tradition symbolises the arrival of spring; by depicting it in blossom amidst snow covered branches, the artist changes the symbolism to that of purity and endurance in adversity. We also see a silent message by these artists through the adoption of a restrained palette applied with expressive brushstrokes as in the highly delicate diptych, Two Chan Patriarchs in Contemplation.

In dramatic contrast, the section entitled Pursuit of Happiness: 1400-1600 reflects the political stability and economic prosperity of the Ming dynasty. As a consequence, Chinese people from many levels of society find the freedom to express their enthusiasm for painting, typified by the Four Pleasures series that illustrates the delights to be gained from calligraphy, painting, music and games. Expensive pigments and silk come into artistic fashion and there is a surge in artistic centres such as Hangzhou, Nanjing and Suzhou. Other popular compositions include evocations of earlier, happy periods like Court Ladies in the Palace which portrays ladies playing football in the palace grounds prior to the adoption of the torturous custom of foot binding.

Two themes dominate the period 1600-1900 and so the final section begins with Challenging the Past to expose this as an era of artistic rivalry when artists competed with those of the past as well as those of the present. Some did so by finding ways of portraying the natural world that incorporated the traditions of calligraphy and poetry whilst others prided themselves on re-interpreting subjects that connected them with the old masters of Chinese painting. A highlight of this section of the exhibition is the monumental, 14-metre long masterpiece, Flowers on the

River, which is one of the longest paintings in the world and made all the more impressive by the fact that Bada Shanren created it when he was 72 years old.

This period and the exhibition jointly come to a close with exhibits themed around Looking to the West which reveals the impact of European painting on the Chinese aesthetic. Crucially, in the 18th and 19th centuries it was the influence on China of skilful Jesuit missionary artists which introduced linear perspective and light and shade (chiaroscuro) techniques, and the importation of European prints and illustrated books resulted in new styles and subjects significantly impacting on Chinese art.

This exhibition has taken two years to organise, made possible by the generous loan of some of the finest Chinese treasures from collections around the globe, but it has been worth all the effort. It clears the fog that used to engulf this facet of the history of art; suddenly, art that seemed to occupy another world is here on our doorstep.

It is an opportunity of a lifetime so don’t miss it.

Masterpieces of Chinese Painting 700-1900 26 October 2013 – 19 January 2014; vam.ac.uk

Th ro o / Nine Dragons (detail), Chen Rong, 1244 o n r A Monkey, Mao Song, 13th century, o r o Tokyo National Museum, Japan, o

o on oo r

TNM Image Archives

/ Court Ladies Preparing Newly Woven Silk, attributed to Emperor Huizong (1082-1135, early 12th century) o n r o on

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LOCAL PROFILE

Great Plains REBECCA WALLERSTEINER celebrates 25 years of colour and creativity with pioneering Australian art dealer Rebecca Hossack EVEN ON A DRAB, autumnal afternoon, meeting Rebecca Hossack is an immediately cheering experience; her personality is just as colourful and effervescent as the paintings she exhibits.

A former Australian Cultural Attaché, Hossack has just returned from visiting her New York gallery, which opened in 2011. She is currently a Director of LAPADA (the association of art and antique dealers) and specialises in aboriginal art and up-and-coming artists.

At the forefront of the London and New York art scene, this year she celebrates 25 years since opening her first gallery in Fitzrovia and the expansion of her business into Kensington and Chelsea.

We meet at the Australianowned Gail’s Artisan Bakery on Portobello Road, known for serving the best ‘flat white’ coffee in London.

Hossack is holding an exhibition of paintings by West Kensingtonbased artist Piers Bourke, whom she represents, on the walls here.

As we sip our (excellent) coffee, we admire Bourke’s bold depiction of a purple telephone booth – rather like a psychedelic TARDIS – which explores the optical effect of colour. “The main aim of my gallery is to show the great diversity of contemporary art”, says Hossack. My favourite picture must be his blown-up stamp with the Queen’s head in a vivid pink, created to commemorate the 60th anniversary of Her Majesty’s Coronation this year.

Born in Melbourne, Australia, Hossack has always hated greyness, preferring sunny skies, light and colour.

Tall, slim and fair, she has an inexhaustible childlike enthusiasm and energy for life. She arrived in London in 1980 to study law but soon realised that she was passionate about art. She astutely spotted a gap in the market for Australian Aboriginal art, which was largely absent from the London gallery scene.

Bravely borrowing £25,000, Hossack then launched her first gallery in Soho.

“When [it] opened, Australian art was virtually unknown and we were taking a huge gamble. Two days after we signed the lease in 1988, the stock market crashed and the recession hit, so I had many sleepless nights during those first years.”

Thanks to her ingenuity, the business thrived and Hossack soon opened another two galleries in London and a third in New York.

Her newest joint venture is with the Australian co-founders of Gail’s Bakeries to hold exhibitions for 16 of her artists in their shops – three of which are situated in the borough at 138 Portobello Road, 209 King’s Road and 341 Fulham Road. The company prides itself on being additive and preservative-free and I can testify that Gail’s freshly-baked bread must be the tastiest available in the area. In fact, Gail’s flat white coffee was so good that I couldn’t resist returning for another the following Saturday; I wasn’t surprised to find the shop packed, with a queue of customers snaking into Portobello Road. It is well worth queuing for the excellent walnut bread and caramelised garlic sour dough.

“We’re delighted to be marking our quarter-

SPOTLIGHT

century by showcasing some of our favourite and most imaginative artists at branches of Gail’s, who have catered for the Serpentine Gallery and Frieze Art Fair,” says Hossack. The local artists she has chosen to exhibit include Piers Bourke, Hepzibah Swinford, Holly Frean and crochet artist Kate Jenkins.

So what qualities does she look for in artists?

“Originality, imagination and hard work,” she replies, waving her hand at Bourke’s colourful Pop-Art inspired Royal stamp. She has an abundance of these qualities herself. “I slept on the floor of the bookshop where I was

Hossack spotted a gap in the market for Aboriginal art, largely absent from London’s galleries working when I first arrived in England in order to save the rent to buy art,” she explains. Luckily the owner never realised. Hossack has shown Bourke’s work at exhibitions around the world, taking it to Sydney this month, as well as the Hamptons Art Fair in October. “In terms of activity, no one can outdo Rebecca,” says Bourke.

Hossack also represents Notting Hillbased Hepzibah Swinford, a self-taught painter of flowers who will also be displaying her work at Gail’s. Swinford captures the beauty and sheer variety of flower forms in her colourful paintings, which are kaleidoscopic explosions of naïve colour. It therefore doesn’t surprise me to hear that celebrities including Graham Norton, Alan Carr and Jack Dee have bought her work.

Hossack was first to discover the talented luxury ethnic jewellery designer Pippa Small, whose shop on Westbourne Grove sells her exquisite designs. Both cultural nomads, they share a fascination and concern for indigenous peoples and their plights. “As food and music from all over the world are discussed, over the past 25 years I’ve often asked myself why this interest and curiosity in the creation of other cultures doesn’t extend to the art world,” comments Hossack. As London’s most prominent indigenous art dealer, hers was the first gallery in Europe to exhibit Aboriginal painting. “I love to spend time with Aboriginal people and I admire their humour and originality. Their art is the human spirit being generous and kind; we could do with more of this in the Western world.”

Hossack is happily married to well-known biographer Matthew Sturgis, author of an excellent book about the life of artist Aubrey Beardsley. Tall, lanky and sensitive, Sturgis is currently writing a biography of the flamboyant writer

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Th ro o / Meissen Flowers, Hepzibah Swinford; Royal Stamp image, Piers Bourke o

/ Purple Telephone Box , Piers Bourke

Oscar Wilde, who for many years lived at 34 Tite Street in Chelsea. “Matthew likes to do the cooking!” smiles Hossack. She asks Matthew to search her luggage for a present for me and I’m extremely touched when she gives me a beautiful, perfectly rounded stone with a quartz-like sparkle, which reminds me of Henry Moore’s sculptures.

She tells me, as I’d expect from an eagle-eyed art lover, that it caught her eye on a beach in Vancouver.

Rebecca Hossack took part in the British Art Fair (11-15 September) at Kensington’s Royal College of Art

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New Zinc showroom now open 1 Chelsea Wharf, 15 Lots Road, London SW10 0QJ

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collection

LET THERE BE LIGHT The 120-year-old House of Boucheron sheds light on its birthplace at 26 Place Vendôme in Paris with its new high jewellery collection. Frédéric Boucheron was a true visionary of his day and his was the first jewellery maison to open on this site in 1893, which was chosen for one reason only; the sun’s rays would shine on the boutique from morning until night. Therefore, the Hôtel de la Lumière collection is centred on the art of light in dedication to the founder’s fascination with this particular source. The show-stopper piece is the Soleil Radiant diamond necklace which applauds the military victories of the French ‘Sun King’, Louis XIV. Boucheron’s eternal place within history has subsequently come to light thanks to this collection. boucheron.com

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BY RICHARD BROWN

A Jaeger-girl’s Best Friend

33 of a Kind Every two years some of the biggest names in watchmaking – Breguet and Patek Philippe included – embark on a mission to create one-off, other-worldly timepieces for auction at Only Watch, a charity initiative that raises money for Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Hoping to achieve more than the £3.4 million raised in 2011, the 33 watches produced for auction in Monaco this autumn range from Corum’s Asclepius-inspired Ti-Bridge 3-Day Power Reserve to Chronoswiss’ monkey-adorned the Three Apes. Also notable this year is the pronounced presence of feminine timepieces. Our favourites are Jaquet Droz’s the Loving Butterfly and Van Cleef & Arpel’s Une Journée à Monaco, a watch made mesmerising by moving silhouettes of a mother and daughter walking through the city. onlywatch.com

For a brand that does elegance and artistry like no other, save, perhaps Vacheron Constantin, this year’s Venice International Film Festival provided Jaeger-LeCoultre with a fitting place to unveil its Reverso Cordonnet Duetto. The newest creation from the official sponsors of the festival made its debut on the red carpet on the wrist of British actress Sophie Kennedy Clark. As is the case with all Reverso watches (hence the name), the timepiece displays two distinct dials. The front is entirely set with diamonds (the watch boasts more than 1,250 in all), while the back dial is marked by the deep blue colour of lapis lazuli. Diamonds may be a girl’s best friend, but they certainly don’t come cheap. The Reverso Cordonnet Duetto will part you from £192,000. jaeger-lecoultre.com

Parisian Purity In keeping with all things pure and designrelated, let us introduce you to a new collection of timepieces from French jewellery house Boucheron. As its name would suggest, the Épure collection is a lesson in cleanness and subtle styling. Available in white and rose gold, set with and without diamonds, and housing Girard-Perregaux-produced movements, the watches carry cabochon sapphires, a stone which Frederic Boucheron believed held talismanic properties.

The pieces (which start from £13,900) also all hold a Latin inscription on the back, Horas non numero nisi serenas, which translates into ‘I count only the joyful hours’.

A most affable approach to timekeeping, in our opinion.

One to Watch Each month we select our timepiece of the moment from the watch world’s most exciting creations

Blue was the colour at Baselworld 2013 and of the navy-sporting timepieces on display it was Patek Philippe’s Gondolo 8 Days, Day and Date (Ref. 5200) that impressed many the most; an extraordinary example of Art Deco design and mechanical watchmaking

Gondolo 8 Days, Day and Date (Ref. 5200) £39,960, Patek Philippe, patek.com

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164 New Bond Street boucheron.com

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The Custodian of

Craftsmanship ANNABEL HARRISON speaks to Juan-Carlos Torres, CEO of Vacheron Constantin, about the company’s centuries-long championship of crafts and artisans, and the opening of its first UK boutique

“17TH SEPTEMBER 1755. In the offices of the solicitor Mr Choisy, a young Master Watchmaker from Geneva is about to hire his first apprentice.

This agreement is the first known reference to the founding watchmaker of a prestigious dynasty and it represents the establishment of Vacheron Constantin.”

A horological history of 258 years is certainly worth declaring with pride, as it is here in a print advertisement, because not only is Vacheron the oldest company within the Richemont stable by more than eight decades (Baume & Mercier was founded in 1830) but it also holds the rather incredible title of oldest watchmaking manufacturer in the world in continuous operation.

As such, Vacheron Constantin benefits from what younger brands can only dream of (nor can they pay for it); history. “You can imitate our know-how but the values, you cannot rebuild,” declares CEO Juan-Carlos Torres.

“This is why the brand is so humble; we are proud of what we are doing, not the price of what we are doing.

Our watchmakers don’t know the retail prices but they don’t care, at all; all they know is the difficulty of making the watch. They are totally passionate about how we create, design and engineer these pieces.”

Torres is passionate too, having been CEO for eight

years and employed at Vacheron Constantin for more than three decades. He is engaging and impressively eloquent, despite the fact that our interview is conducted in English (what I assume to be his third language), and he breaks into laughter frequently, putting a smile on my face too. His pride in Vacheron’s long history is evident and (justifiably) hyperbolically so; “We are the roots of high watchmaking. We created all the things that exist now. But for us, there is no technique without design so you have to be innovative. Don’t be crazy but make something classic, an evolution of a design.” He singles out precision and quality as the most important criteria in watchmaking and the company is committed to being able to repair any watch it has ever made. “How the piece can function and be repaired in hundreds of years’ time is the main preoccupation of the brand.”

In an age of factory-led, mass manufacture for a rapidly-increasing global population, what a delight it is to explore a comparatively tiny industry focused entirely on achieving absolute precision and producing pieces of the utmost quality. This is a world colonised by craftsmen and women who have mastered skills first perfected centuries and millennia ago. In April, an exhibition was held at Somerset House – Crafted: Makers of the Exceptional – in which 20 of Britain’s most talented and pioneering artisans demonstrated their passion, dedication and expertise. Founder and Chairman of the Walpole Crafted programme Guy Salter said that the scheme’s aim was “to help craftsmen and women develop businesses that are strong,

Right/ Vacheron Constantin Malte Tourbillon

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Vacheron Constantin on Quai del’Ile, Geneva

Guilloché work on a Florilège China Limodoron dial

A watchmaker at work on a Vacheron Constantin calibre

Métiers d’Art Florilège Queen watch

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Enamel work on a Florilège Queen dial

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Cloisonné enamel work on a Florilège China Limodoron dial

growing and sustainable in order to support themselves properly, do commercial justice to their outstanding skills, and crucially allowing them to pass these on”. In fact, according to Crafts Council Director Rosy Greenlees, the UK alone has more than 23,000 people working in the craft industry, contributing over £400 million to the economy, so it’s essential that we protect it.

This is where Vacheron Constantin comes in. At first glance, a thoroughly Swiss watchmaker doesn’t seem the most obvious of choices to sponsor a thoroughly British organisation’s support of the British luxury industry but for Torres, “it’s a question of linking our roots and values. Since 1755 Vacheron has worked with artisans – engravers, enamellers, watchmakers – and every Vacheron watch pays tribute to their craftsmanship.

We can see that important crafts are disappearing worldwide and the only way to stop that is to make people discover these crafts.” So Vacheron has launched a series of exhibitions, beginning in Paris and now visiting Milan, Geneva and London. “We’re starting with countries with history in culture and arts and crafts. In the UK you have a long and deep history about craftsmanship, so it is the right place to be.”

Crafted is just the tip of the iceberg in terms of treasuring and developing craftsmanship. Whereas other brands align themselves with an international sport or globally recognised faces, Vacheron’s gaze has remained solely upon the world of arts and crafts. In September, for example, the company is launching the first masterclass

of design for craftsmanship in one of the most important design schools in Europe – Ecole Cantonale d’Art de Lausanne – and ‘Our Commitments’ on the company website lists ethical responsibilities, social responsibilities, patronages and cultural partnerships. “Our responsibility is indeed passing on the tradition of craftsmanship,” Torres explains. “We want to promote culture and for us the art of ballet is very important. We sponsor the Royal Ballet School and the New York City Ballet, because ballet is so linked to our world of art and movement.”

Torres appreciates the intricacies of work carried out by the most skilled of artists, whether ballet dancers or woodworkers. “I have always been fascinated by the sensitivities and sensibilities about craftsmanship – my father was a carpenter. When I started at Vacheron, immediately I shared the passion of the watchmakers with the watchmakers.” The best part of his job is taking the time to talk to everyone from the designers to the customers. “When you have time to do that, you learn a lot.” He himself wears a watch with a wonderful story; the Patrimony Perpetual Calendar, given as a gift to mark Torres’ 30 years with the brand, was produced by all the watchmakers present when he had started at Vacheron three decades earlier. “They are all still working for the brand. On the back are the flags of Geneva and Barcelona.” Despite the very occasional language difficulty, I get the feeling that Mr Torres may well be an excellent speech-maker after this rhetorical sentence: “In this world of industrialisation, globalisation, repetition and

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quantity, what is unique, what is authentic, what is true?

It is what is done by hand.”

The people and passion behind products is crucial – “our pieces are warm and have emotion inside” – and this comes through when Torres tells me enthusiastically about the new lines this year. Most are for women because the brand “has enough movements to put inside and ladies are more knowledgeable about watches, buying for themselves.” In fact, these ladies are buying more than 20 per cent of Vacheron’s output so, in addition to Patrimony and Malte creations, the seventh Metiérs d’Art collection is for women too and designed by a female watchmaker.

Each of the Metiérs collections pays tribute to specific artistic crafts and the Florilège watches – Queen, White Lily and China Limodoron – showcase guillochage, enamelling and gem-setting.

The results, created by independent dial enameller Anita Porchet (one of the few people alive able to produce Genève technique miniatures) and Vacheron’s own craftsmen, are quite spectacular. In fact, readers may remember our report in April about this collection, paying homage to British botanical art as illustrated in Robert John Thornton’s 1799 tome The Temple of Flora.

Physician Thornton had a passionate interest in botany and he spared no expense in the production of his book, commissioning the best plate engravers in London, as well as the top botanical illustrators and painters of the time.

The resulting 90 plates of skilled, coloured engravings have been of great interest not only to botanical and art historians but also to Vacheron Constantin.

Queen depicts the strelitzia plant from South Africa, which reached the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew in 1773; White Lily champions the floral symbol of purity and virtue and Vacheron declares these “radiantly white large trumpet-shaped blooms to have accompanied the most wonderful stories, from the Byzantine empire to French royalty”; and the extravagant, colourful China Limodoron symbolises wealth and refinement.

The flowers are reproduced in the tiniest details and beautifully vivid colours using the centuries-old technique of guilloché (engraving) and ancient skill of cloisonné (enamelling). The work is begun by an engine-turner, cutting lines a tenth of a millimetre in width, followed by an enameller, who outlines the shapes in thin enclosures of gold; firing at around 800°C is a delicate procedure, repeated several times. Such is the attention

to detail, and lack of concern regarding time taken for production, that the bridges and baseplate are bevelled and decorated by hand on all their surfaces, even if assembled out of sight.

Those thrilled by this precision and quality can now visit a boutique here in London to appreciate this skill for themselves, the first UK boutique for the brand. “Vacheron opened in Geneva in 1906,” explains Torres “and it was the first watchmaking boutique in the world. But the way the customers wanted to buy watches changed, so we’ve opened in Paris, Beverly Hills and London already this year, and New York last year. We are growing step by step but it takes time to be able to fill boutiques with merchandise and to create a good team. The Old Bond Street boutique is only small but the idea is to create an environment for high watchmaking.”

So who will visit, Mr Torres? Who are your customers? After a contemplative pause, he replies poetically that “after 32 years, I can say our customer is like the watch. Discreet. Humble. Knows a lot about art.

Enjoys life. Has family and friends at the centre of their preoccupations. Not at all egotistical. Generous.”

I sincerely hope Vacheron Constantin continues to be as generous with its custodianship of crafts as it is currently and that its contribution will ensure the skills I admire today will still be practiced 258 years from now.

“In this world of industrialisation, globalisation, repetition and quantity, what is unique, what is authentic, what is true?

It is what is done by hand”

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37 Old Bond Street, W1S 4AB, 020 7578 9500 vacheron-constantin.com; craftedshowcase.co.uk

Skeletonised Vacheron Constantin calibre

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Design Intervention Eccentric accessories from out of this world

1 La Ferrari watch, £250,000, Hublot, Marcus Watches, 170 New Bond Street 2 White diamond skull cufflinks, £8,855, Deakin & Francis, deakinandfrancis.com 3 The Music Machine, £8,500, MB&F, mbandf.com

McLaren perforated cufflinks, £170, Links of London, 16 Sloane Street

Caran d’Ache Caelograph pen, £3,500, William and Son, williamandson.com GTO London, gtolondon.com

Signature Pure Black phone, £11,500, Vertu, vertu.com

EMC watch, £94,000, Urwerk, Marcus Watches, as before

Bespoke sapphire money clip, POA

Engraved metal skull cufflinks, £90, Paul Smith, available at Harrods and Selfridges 10 Ocean Tourbillon GMT, POA, Harry Winston, harrywinston.com 11 Day bag, £1,095, Troubadour Goods, troubadourgoods.com

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Swiss movement, English heart

Calibre JJ03 modification (Patent pending) of ETA 2893 self-winding movement / Personally assembled by Master Watchmaker, Johannes Jahnke and team at CW’s Swiss atelier / 2 x 24 hour time-zone display / 24 airport code identification and simultaneous world map indicator / 43mm, marine-grade, 316L polished steel case with sapphire crystal and transparent case-back / Ethically sourced, midnight blue, Louisiana alligator strap with Bader deployment

Showroom at NO.1 PARK STREET, Maidenhead. To arrange a personal appointment, call +44 (0)1628 763040

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CONTESSA To own a rare Argyle pink diamond is to own a truly magnificent heirloom.

Contessa, beautifully handcrafted in Platinum and 18ct Rose Gold, features an exquisite combination of stunning craftsmanship and the rarest of Australian Argyle pink diamonds.

Simply, they are the rarest diamonds in the world and are revered for their unique provenance and intrinsic beauty.

UNITED KINGDOM The Royal Arcade, Old Bond St, Mayfair London W1S 4SW AUSTRALIA Sydney Gold Coast calleija.com

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JEWELLERY

BY OLIVIA SHARPE

Centre Stage Despite its roots in design and craftsmanship, jewellery has never been given equal merit in the art world and yet there are several contemporary brands keen to stress the strong link between jewellery and art. At the forefront of these enthuasiasts is Russian jeweller Maxim Voznesensky who has just opened his flagship store on Old Bond Street. To create his pieces, Voznesensky draws upon painting, architecture, sculpture and theatre and because of this some of his innovative designs are currently being showcased in Moscow’s Kremlin Museum at the Diamonds of Russia exhibition. The artist himself studied at the Moscow School of Arts and Crafts and the Moscow Institute of Architecture before going on to launch his eponymous label. His trademark patented design feature is The Heel, a perfectly balanced flat edge on the underside of his rings which allow them to stand alone as miniature sculptures.

MV Jewellery Theatre 44 Old Bond Street, W1S 4GB maximvoznesensky.com

Moving On This autumn sees the launch of Harrods’ new luxury jewellery room, offering independent designers and established brands their own exclusive platform within the department store for the first time. The boutique will debut Monica Vinader’s first shop-in-shop retail space alongside the likes of Georg Jensen, Stephen Webster and Annoushka. Amongst the roster of new designers launching with the luxury room in 2013 are Rosantica, Bee Goddess, Matchstick and Shy by Sydney Evan (exclusive to Harrods). harrods.com

Pieces pictured above by Bee Goddess

Cutting Edge Carolina Bucci jewellery stands out in the industry thanks to exceptional craftsmanship and contemporary design. The designer’s latest collection, entitled Gitane, remains true to form

Taking its name from the French word for gypsy, Gitane has been inspired by old or o or n r Th o is the central character and takes after the o n n o r no n n jewellery artist Fulco di Verdura, whose r n n n Th other strong motif is the smile, originating from the smiles of iconic 20th century women such as Sophia Loren

Above from top/ Earrings, owl pendant

A Familiar Ring Fabergé is extending its best-selling collection over the past three years, which comprises the Emotion rings, to include new additions which will be arriving in boutiques this autumn. The new designs feature more than 300 precious gemstones in an array of rich autumnal colours and, with each stone set by hand in a random pavé setting, no two rings are the same. Having created exquisite jewels and objects since 1842, the House of Fabergé has become revered for its craftsmanship, innovation and artistry of colour. faberge.com

Right All part of the Gitane Collection, carolinabucci.com

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Leading contemporary jewellery designers find inspiration in art and architecture

1 Opium gold-plated onyx necklace, £1,575, Saint Laurent, net-a-porter.com 2 Duality double ring, POA, Melanie Georgacopoulos, melaniegeorgacopoulos.com 3 Lunaria ring, POA, Eternamé, etername.com

Gold-plated horn necklace, £1,125, Maiyet, net-a-porter.com

L’Exceptionnelle Emeraude ring, POA, Ornella Iannuzzi, ornellaiannuzzi.com

Dedale pendant necklace, £2,171, Lanvin, farfetch.com Opening Castle 18-karat yellow gold, black diamond and diamond ring, £35,000, Theo Fennell, theofennell.com Gold bangle, POA, Chloé A/W13 collection, chloe.com

Gold-tone crystal and resin ring, £325, Emilio Pucci, net-a-porter.com 10 Gold ring, POA, Chloé A/W13 collection, chloe.com

11 Boxed gold ring, £150, Hannah Warner, hannahwarner.com 12 D’Arling double gold ring, £98, Maria Black, kabiri.co.uk 13 Whitby Jet ring, POA, Jacqueline Cullen, jacquelinecullen.com 1 De Con gold-plated ring, £170, Maria Black, net-a-porter.com 1 Rose gold sabre earrings, POA, Shaun Leane, harrods.com

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From the Honeycomb Eternelle Ring Collection

33 Albemarle Street - Mayfair, London WIS 4BP - Tel. 020 7629 5616 MILANO, VENEZIA, FIRENZE, CALA DI VOLPE, CAPRI, PARIS, MONTE CARLO, LONDON, MOSCOW, NEW YORK, CHICAGO,ASPEN, BEVERLY HILLS, TOKYO, OSAKA, HONG KONG, SIDNEY WWW.BUCCELLATI.COM

fashion

GOD SAVE THE QUEEN Vogue On has released another installment of its covetable series celebrating the works of fashion designers of the last century, this time settling on Vivienne Westwood; the undisputed Queen of British fashion. Partly responsible for the punk style of the 1970s, for having reintroduced crinoline and Harris Tweed into the modern day fashion mainstream and for reimagining the hourglass figure, it was no exaggeration when fellow designer Alexander McQueen referred to the Dame as “the Coco Chanel of our day”.

A true maverick, Westwood has on many occasions used the catwalk as a platform to express her political views, revealing the power of fashion to influence society. Vogue On is also releasing books on Cristóbal Balenciaga, Hubert de Givenchy and Ralph Lauren in October. quadrille.co.uk

Vogue On: Vivienne Westwood by Linda Watson Quadrille Publishing (£15, hardback) Th on on

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FASHION

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From cameo-encrusted minaudières to python-lined clutches and fur-trimmed totes, it was a mixed bag when it came to this season’s number one accessory

1 Elsie ostrich shoulder bag, £2,210, Chloé, harrods.com 2 Too Hot To Handle Bentley tote, £315, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Harrods, as before 3 Red python bag, POA, Dolce & Gabbana, dolcegabbana.com

Adele resin minaudière in black, POA, Tory Burch, toryburch.co.uk

Pony skin cross body bag, £580, Sophie Hulme, sophiehulme.com

Green clutch, £275, Alice & Olivia, Harrods, as before The Little Crush in mink and leather, £2,095, Burberry, uk.burberry.com jacquard and vintage calf leather top-handle bag, £1,120, Prada, prada.com

Vichy turquoise and red check

Mini shoulder bag in pony, £1,525, Proenza Schouler, Harrods, as before 10 The Big Crush

with fringed eyelits, £1,895, Burberry, as before 11 Mini satchel in leopard, £855, Phillip Lim, Harrods, as before 12 White tote, POA, Valentino, valentino.com 13 Blue and gold box clutch, POA, Valentino, as before 1 Two-tone crocodile clutch, £1,790, Nancy Gonzalez, net-a-porter.com 1 Floral briefcase in black and white, POA, Tory Burch, as before 1 Primrose bag in aubergine grainy calf, £1,200, Mulberry, mulberry.com 1 Jacquard and leather tote, £1,100, Miu Miu, net-a-porter.com 1 Givenchy Pandora box, £1,175, Givenchy, givenchy.com

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Out of this World At Paris Couture Week, the first three-quarters of Elie Saab’s show were a study of unrestrained glamour; the designer split his collection into four distinct colour palettes – red, navy, green and grey – and each shade was presented in either a short, long, asymmetric or off-theshoulder dress. While elegant and refined, it wasn’t what you’d call show-stopping.

However, like any true performer, the designer saved the best until last. As the penultimate red carpet gown disappeared backstage, in its place a celestial bride floated down the runway in a shimmering silversequined gown, followed by a trailing tulle and three bridesmaids. If you wanted to create a real wow factor at your wedding, this would be the way to do it. eliesaab.com

HER STYLE YLE

BY OLIVIA SHARPE

Rock Out

Winging Its Way

Having studied haute couture, shoe designer Laurence Dacade is meticulous in her quest for technical mastery, producing pieces which combine both comfort and glamour. This made her the obvious choice for Zadig & Voltaire, who called upon the designer to create a capsule collection of boots for the French brand’s A/W13 line. Dacade worked closely with the label’s creative director Cecilia Bonstrom to produce a collection which incorporated both her own trademark style and that of the rock ‘n’ roll house. The result is a set of classic styles featuring punky elements. We particularly love the rock chic vibe of the studded ankle boots, as well as the statement thigh boots with thick leather heels, this season’s wardrobe essential.

Bentley has proved that it’s not just a dab hand at car design; the English manufacturer has spread its metallic wings and branched out into handbags.

The debut range includes two styles, one of which is inspired by one of the brand’s most famous model lines (the Continental) and the other is named after the chairman’s daughter, Diana Barnato.

Each bag features its own unique plaque with a limited edition number engraved on it. Lined in leather and complete with interior compartments, we can safely say the handbag collection is every bit as stylish and functional as its mechanical counterpart. Bravo Bentley boys.

zadigetvoltaire.com

bentleyhandbagcollection.com

FASHION

Look Out for Elephants Scarf brand Lily & Lionel has linked up with the World Land Trust (WLT) to raise awareness and funds to protect elephants and their threatened natural habitat. The hand-spun silk, oversized scarves feature imagery from award-winning Press Photographer of the Year and WLT ambassador David Bebber. For every scarf purchased, 20 per cent goes straight to WLT. £350, lilyandlionel.com

Q&A

with Lesley Torson, founder of denim specialist brand Trilogy

Why did you decide on Duke of York Square as the location for the new store?

The lifestyles of the residents in the area inspired Trilogy, and it was where we lived and worked, so there was only one appropriate place to open our first store in 2006. Our flagship store opening next door is part of a seven-year journey and we are immensely proud to be able to offer our customers an enhanced service and product experience; they deserve it as they have been so supportive. Chelsea, and especially the King’s Road, is an iconic shopping and lifestyle destination and our proposition was designed to work there.

The Holy Grail

How do you make jeans shopping enjoyable?

When we started Trilogy we realised that for our customers finding the right pair of jeans was the Holy Grail! It was driven by my personal experience of buying my first designer jeans (an Earl Straight Skinny) in New York; when I returned to London I realised there was an opportunity to create a ‘destination’ for buying jeans. I wanted to work with the best brands in the world, give honest and straightforward advice while giving a truly special one-on-one service experience. We’ve also developed a range of Made for Trilogy exclusives, working with some of our favourite brands (J Brand, Paige, Ag and Frame). There is something to suit everyone, from the super fashionable to the stylish and sophisticated.

The Fashion Book, aka The Fashion Bible and otherwise known as the bona fide guide to the industry, is releasing its most updated and expanded edition this October.

Featuring big names in ‘the biz’, iconic couturiers of the 20th designer and insider expert advice, it provides an essential and detailed exposé of the most powerful people within the art and business of fashion. So if you haven’t made it into this edition, better luck next time.

Is there a pair of jeans to suit every woman?

More than one! Not only can you choose your favourite leg shape, from skinny to flare, but you can also decide if you want a low, mid or high rise and within each leg shape comes a variety of choice. The denim brands are constantly developing new fabrics to improve the fit, which is so key when finding the perfect pair of jeans.

The Fashion Book, £39.95 Published on 7 October Phaidon Editors, phaidon.com

In the Wake While we’re somewhat sad to say that Amanda Wakeley’s boutique on the Fulham Road can no longer be classified as the flagship, in the same breath we are pleased to herald the arrival of the designer’s new store on Albemarle Street. The 3,000 square foot townhouse, which will house the ready-towear, bespoke and demi-couture atelier, as well as cashmere, beachwear and accessories, is set to open in autumn. Watch this space for more details.

What are your top pieces from the A/W13 collection?

I can’t wait to get a pair of J Brand leathers; they are the ultimate, classic jean. Effortless and sophisticated, bring on September! The trends in denim are very easy to buy into; everyone should own a pair of leather jeans, a classic blue skinny is an absolute must and zips are a key look for the season.

Trilogy Chelsea, 31 Duke of York Square, SW3 4LY

amandawakeley.com

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Antique silver backless gown dress, made to order Nicholas Oakwell, 020 7549 7950; Head Held High pearl chain headpiece, ÂŁ120, Maria Zureta, mariazureta.com; Triple pearl ring in gold (worn on right hand), ÂŁ1,350, Delfina Delettrez, at Dover Street Market, 17-18 Dover Street, W1S 4LT

Ghost Story As the autumn leaves begin to fall and summer’s warmth dissipates, luxuriate in the full-length glamour of evening gowns in gothic black lace, jewel-toned greens and purples, and ethereal greys Photographer:

Jon Attenborough

Stylist:

Siouxsie

Paloma dress, £2,800 (ready-to-wear), Emilia Wickstead, 28 Cadogan Place, SW1X 9RX, 020 7235 1104; Gold hoop belt, £375, Burberry Prorsum, burberry.com 18-karat yellow gold and oxidised silver earrings set with white diamonds, £3,355, and 18-karat yellow gold and oxidised silver shield ring with emerald-cut lapis, white and black diamonds, £3,540, Armenta at Talisman Gallery, 020 7201 8582

Black rubber printed lace short dress with tulle underskirt, £1,500, and black ruffle tulle hat, from £495, John Rocha, johnrocha.ie; Black patent slippers with bow detail and glitter heel, £515, Lanvin at Larizia Boutique, 020 7586 1110 Baroque Southsea oxidised silver, pearl and diamond necklace, £13,995, Nagaam at Talisman Gallery, as before Pavé star slate silver ring, £410, M.C.L., mcldesign.net

Pale moss splash graphic print with embellished flowers dress, £1,930, Arjan B, notjustalabel.com/arjan_b; Lilac pega rex rabbit and pearl lamb gilet, £1,162, Hockley, 20 Conduit Street, W1S 2XW, 020 7493 6362; 18-karat white gold aquamarine drop earrings with diamonds, £28,224, Faraone Mennella, 28 Lowndes Street, SW1X 9HX, 020 7235 1183; Silver door lock I’m Through with Love necklace, £220, Maria Zureta, as before; Three tier crystal braided silk Manhattan necklace, £375, Jolita, jolitajewellery.com; Two faced, black ring (on left hand), £645, MCL, as before; Purple blue crystal cuff, £340, Atelier Swarovski by Arik Levy, atelierswarovski.com

Black Jack embellished jumpsuit, POA, Julien Macdonald, julienmacdonald.com; Black vintage cape, stylist’s archive; Gold chain and black stone Fade to Black necklace, £180, Maria Zureta, as before; 1980s Yves Saint Laurent gold plated leaf drop earrings, £895, and 1970s Trifari gold plated cross pendant, £195, Susan Caplan Vintage Collection, susancaplan.co.uk; Gold Infinity ring with pearl set inside resin, £375, Delfina Delettrez, as before

Long Luisa lace dress, ÂŁ595, Alice Temperley, temperleylondon.com; Rose gold, leather pointed court shoes, POA, Stuart Weitzman, stuartweitzman.com; Oxidised silver and rose gold three finger ring set with diamonds, ÂŁ2,575, Aida Bergsen at Talisman Gallery, as before

Full length embroidered lace and silk chiffon gown, £6,925, Elie Saab Boutique at Harrods, 020 7173 6424, harrods.com; Mulberry Chandelier crystal necklace, £580, Oscar de la Renta, 130 Mount Street, 020 7493 0422; 1990 Elizabeth Taylor treasured vine gold plated bracelet (on right wrist), £395, Susan Caplan Vintage Collection, as before; Small crystal glass, brass and gold plated pendant ring (on left hand) £115, Anton Heunis, handmade in Madrid, 020 7404 7070

Photographer & Stylist Contact: Jon Attenborough (lharepresents.com) Siouxsie (siouxsiestylist.com) Make Up: Charlotte Gaskell (lharepresents.com) using Cosmetics A La Carte (alacartelondon.com) Hair Stylist: Herman Ho (hermanho.com) using L’Oreal Professionnel (lorealprofessionnel.co.uk) Stylist’s Assistant: Daisy Bunyan Model: Daan @ Milk Model Management (milkmanagement.co.uk) With a special thanks to Abney Park Cemetery for the location Flowers kindly provided by Judith Blacklock Flower School (020 7235 6235 / judithblacklock.com)

The Royal Line In a further bid to revamp Gieves & Hawkes’ traditional image, creative director Jason Basmajian has managed to find the perfect balance between ready-to-wear and bespoke with the brand’s latest limited edition collection, designed for the sartorial gent of the 21st century. Full canvas jackets, threepiece suits and cashmere knitwear make up the line; however, shirt sleeves and trouser hems have purposefully been left unfinished so customers can add their own personal flair in store. Accompanying the collection is a new campaign shot by Oscar-nominated filmmaker Mike Figgis at Harewood House.

Featuring vintage cars, well-dressed men and a beautiful country estate, Figgis appears to have taken a leaf out of Julian Fellowes’ book with his Downton Abbey-inspired short film. gievesandhawkes.com

HIS STYLE

BY OLIVIA SHARPE

Meet Paul Smith Keep Your Shirt On Despite having been a supplier of men’s shirts since 1928, it was, surprisingly, only this year that Swedish label Eton Shirts opened its first London flagship store on South Molton Street; for the brand, this was the moment it officially came home: “Much of what makes Eton great comes as the result of Britain’s fine sensibilities and taste for excellence. The chance to showcase the full Eton concept here, in the heart of London, is a very exciting prospect”, comments CEO Hans Davidson.

The Georgian townhouse accommodates Eton’s full collection of fine menswear and accessories, plus its range with Grungy Gentleman. The exclusive collection with the New York blogger was an instant sell-out and we have no doubt the same will apply for this installment which is even bigger and better than it was first time round.

You might think that opening a 13th store would signal a bad omen. Not for Paul Smith.

The British fashion power house opened the doors of a new London store in August, located on Soho’s Beak Street, only to then immediately follow this with the expansion of its existing boutique on Albermarle Street, which opened this September.

The store has taken over the neighbouring building on Stafford Street and will sell both men’s and women’s clothing, as well as accessories and furniture. Modern and masculine, the men’s area will house the vibrant and colourful A/W13 collection which includes houndstooth jumpers, playful cow print parkas and fuzzy knits.

etonshirts.com paulsmith.co.uk

FASHION

10 Out Of 10 Sports label Y-3 has never been one to hide from the limelight. Arriving on the fashion scene ten years ago as a new and interesting collaboration between Adidas and Japanese designer Yohji Yamamoto, the brand quickly stood out as one that pushed the boundaries of conventional foot and sportswear with its quirky and flamboyant designs. It therefore stands to reason that Y-3 wouldn’t let its tenth birthday go without a resounding bang. In celebration of this impressive feat, the label recently opened its Covent Garden store which features a futuristic interior; the perfect setting for the neon-infused A/W13 collection. Definitely worth a visit the next time you’re in the area.

Barbour International at John Lewis Harris tweed sports White VC at John Lewis

Peter Jones Presents...

Peter Jones has proved that it’s one step ahead of the men’s fashion game with the announcement of an exclusive partnership with three premium menswear brands. Uniting with Gloverall, Barbour International and Private White V.C, all three will be launching exclusive collections and limited edition pieces within the department store. This initiative also marks the first time these labels have sat together within Peter Jones.

y-3.com

Savile Row In Knightsbridge Fortunately, residents of the Royal Borough, you no longer have to venture all the way to Mayfair to experience some of the sartorial delights of Savile Row, as this August saw the launch of the new Chester Barrie shop-in-shop store in Harvey Nichols. While the full collection is available at the brand’s flagship store, the new boutique houses an arguably more manageable, tightly edited selection which brings together some of the key elements of A/W13 including the staple handmade cashmere jackets, the Ebury jacket with the classic arced peak lapel and Christopher shirts.

Peter Jones Sloane Square, SW1W 8EL johnlewis.com

c John Lewis

Big button Melton at John Lewis

Chester Barrie Main menswear floor at Harvey Nichols harveynichols.com

A Cut Above Louis Vuitton’s A/W13 collection teamed with natural life as brand style director (and Attenborough-wannabe) Kim Jones headed to the Himalayas to find his inspiration for the house’s newest menswear line. Mount Everest’s summit was the backdrop for models as they trekked down the runway in snow leopard-spotted and mink underlay winter coats, reindeer leather puffas and Bhutanese print duffel bags. Reaching new heights of creativity and originality, the collection caused many breaths to be drawn at Paris Fashion Week. As well as being housed in the flagship boutique on Sloane Street, the new collection has also been given a lair in the newly-extended and revamped store-in-store boutique in Harrods. Sitting alongside Jones’ travel-themed line is a selection of the label’s leather goods and, if you descend further down to the Lower Ground Floor, you’ll find the expanded shoe in-store department in the dedicated Men’s Shoe Salon.

Louis Vuitton in Harrods, harrods.com

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Just a couple of hours from home.

And yet a world away.

w w w. a u s t r i a . i n f o

Yo u r p e r s o n a l H o l i d a y I n f o r m a t i o n L i n e : 0845 101 1818 (calls charged at local rates)

lifestyle

OFF THE WALL The concept behind Petit h was born out of a desire to revive discarded artefacts and established by the project’s artistic director Pascale Mussard – a member of the sixth generation of the Hermès family. Created in 2010, the métier involves a chosen artist and craftsman coming together to transform old Hermès materials or items into new and unique pieces. Former riding stirrups turn into the handles of a leather swing; a teapot sprouts wings and becomes a fantastical mobile; last season towels are reawakened as a design for a chest of drawers. This November, Petit h items are being displayed at Hermès’ Bond Street store and will certainly be a sight to behold.

Petit h, 20 November – 7 December hermes.com/petith

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& GARDEN

HOME

BY RACHEL MULRENAN

Nicky Haslam for OKA Renowned London-based interior designer Nicky Haslam has launched a new range of furniture and homeware accessories to be sold at OKA stores in Chelsea and Notting Hill this autumn. The collection exudes Haslam’s trademark style, combining unusual shapes with intricate details and featuring Gothicstyle furniture in neutral tones, matched with colourful fabrics, cushions and accessories.

Highlight pieces include the carved Arcady chair and a range of floral embellished pieces.

Previous clients of Nicky Haslam include Mick Jagger, Rupert Everett and Ringo Starr, cementing his reputation as one of the country’s leading designers.

Fall Into Bed Celebrate (or compensate for) the return of the colder nights with the Fall 2013 bedding range from Calvin Klein Home. Created using a range of different textiles and embroidery techniques, the collection features three designs: Golden Vines is a luxurious soft sateen, with a Lurex accenting and embellished with flowers and vines; Winter Branches is a delicate grey blue highlighted with lavender and watercolour branches; and Linear Damask features geometric prints on contrasting shades of red.

Calvin Klein Home at harrods.com

OKA, 155 Fulham Road, Chelsea, SW3 6SN OKA, 103 Lancaster Road, Notting Hill, W11 1QN okadirect.com

Soft Touch

Speaking the Language of Design The first ever Staffan Tollgård Design Store opened its doors last month at Grosvenor Waterside in Chelsea. The UK-based international interior design practice, known for its contemporary and luxury designs, will be the exclusive UK retailer of design brands such as Autoban, Stellar Works and Verden Linteloo, and the inaugural retailer of Neri & Hu in the country. Every aspect of the Design Store is for sale or specification, from the poured concrete floor and specialist wall finishes to the curated collection of furniture and accessories, and expert staff will be on hand to help with any queries.

Last month saw the launch of Louise Bradley’s debut fabric line, inspired by the designer’s signature palette and textural layering.

The hotly-anticipated LB Fabric Collection features more than 300 fabrics, from textured cottons and matte satins to luxurious velvets.

The collection is available to view in the newly-opened Fabric Room at the Kimbolton Court Showroom, while across the borough Louise Bradley’s Walton Street showroom has been relaunched following extensive renovations. It now includes a garden area and a basement dedicated to accessories, decorated in neutral tones throughout so as to showcase the signature Louise Bradley furniture range. louisebradley.co.uk

Staffan Tollgård, Grosvenor Waterside, Gatliff Road, SW1W 8QN tollgard.co.uk

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HOME Home House

For an eclectic mix of bespoke furniture and handcrafted home accessories, head to Nina’s House, a new concept furniture store on the King’s Road. Named after owner Nina Bigbie, the shop mixes classical and contemporary styles, with timeless wooden furniture amid rustic stools, recycled lights and mismatched cushions. After years of working with unusual spaces as a property developer, Nina decided to expand into design and furniture sourcing, with the aim of helping clients maximise their living spaces through clever but fun interior design. The result is a collection of furniture that is both beautiful and practical, perfect for ensuring style and active children aren’t mutually exclusive.

Based Upon...

We loved the piano recently on display at Masterpiece by specialist design company Based Upon. Our research tells us that Based Upon was founded in 2004 by brothers Ian and Richard Abell to create beautiful commissioned artworks and sculptural furniture inspired by landscapes, both natural and urban, and historic narratives. The Baby, as seen at Masterpiece this summer, was an evolution of the company’s trademark sculptural form, created from fibreglass, specialist plastic and brass, and containing a classic 1066 Sygnet piano. Located in London but with an international clientele, Based Upon prides itself on collaborating with clients on commissions, creating meaningful, skilfully-crafted works which last a lifetime. basedupon.com

Nina’s House, 281 King’s Road, SW3 ninashouse.com

In Print For a home every bit as stylish as your wardrobe, Matthew Williamson has teamed up with Osborne & Little to create an exclusive range of wallpaper and fabrics. The Eden range, launched in September, features bold prints, embellishment and kaleidoscopic colours, and is every bit as glamorous as we would expect from Williamson, who made his name in fashion dressing the likes of Kate Moss, Olivia Palermo and Poppy Delevingne. Our favourite print set has been given the fitting name of Empress and includes a rich purple wallpaper featuring Moorish patterns and inspired by the designer’s S/S12 collection, and Imperial Lattice, a decorative lattice motif with delicate beaded detailing. osborneandlittle.com

Bring to the Table Heralded as the ‘Queen of Tableware’, French designer Muriel Grateau has been the name behind the most stylish dinner parties for the past 20 years. As well as her contemporary line of jewellery, her gallery in Paris showcases her refined and minimalistic home décor collections, including her coveted dinner sets. Created from the highest quality porcelain, they reference French, Italian and Scandinavian influences and the Ligne Mobile collection features the designer’s signature bright colours and an almost Pollock-esque print, making every meal a work of art. murielgrateau.com

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77-79 W estbourne G rove W2 4uL L ondon fLorence

- bucharest - hamburG - istanbuL - London - miLan - nice - paris - rome - teL aviv - turin - vienna - WarsaW

www.devon-devon.com

It Takes Two ANNABEL HARRISON takes a closer look at the Knightsbridge-based Sub-Zero & Wolf showroom and the shiniest new products the brand has to offer

I MADE MY FIRST visit to the showroom earlier this year and I was seriously impressed. The ground floor level comprises a selection of shiny new Sub-Zero & Wolf appliances, laid out and styled in the manner of a very cool home; ask the staff to show you how to make a hot chocolate, there and then, nose around the fully-kitted out kitchen or spend a few minutes gazing at the wall covered in photographs of the brand’s numerous high profile customers. It seems to me that, once you’ve hit the big time as a professional chef (or footballer, designer or musician, in fact), these are the only products for you. As engaging as these photos are, I’d urge you to head straight downstairs to Sub-Zero’s subterranean studio space.

My visit coincided with an event during which chef Shaun Rankin was making full use of the bespoke kitchen by Darren Jenner (which showcases two Sub-Zero ICBBI-36R refrigerators and two Wolf Dual Fuel ranges) to create amazing canapés. The studio also boasts a three metre dining table and chairs (by JAB Anstoetz) which can seat 20, as well as a fullystocked bar, a stone fireplace and an outdoor ‘London Street’. It’s the cleverest and most interesting display of products I’ve seen; the Winston Churchill Cigar Room has its own rise and fall brandy bar and the Nelson Room houses a fully integrated Sub-Zero ICB424 wine storage unit and a set of ICB700BR refrigerated drawers. I left convinced that despite my rather lacklustre attempts at cooking to date, I surely could become an (amateur) masterchef with this equipment.

If you aren’t aware of the brand’s history, it’s a match made in heaven, basically. Sub-Zero, founded in 1945 by Westye F. Bakke, is the leading manufacturer of Americanmade luxury refrigeration, freezers and wine storage products. The company pioneered the concept of dual refrigeration, priding itself on being the first to store frozen foods at ultralow ‘sub-zero’ temperatures, and in 2000, acquired Wolf Appliance, Inc, the top maker of ranges, ovens, cooktops and grills. The duo means business; brand ambassadors include Aldo Zilli, Thomasina Miers and Simon Rimmer, and celebrity chefs James Martin, Gordon Ramsay, Michel Roux Jr, Gary Rhodes and Tom Parker Bowles are all fans. If it’s good enough for them...

However, kitchens and appliances are expensive purchases so you need to know why they’re worth it. There seem to be quite a few reasons (not least my favourite; the nano-retention shelves, a new feature in the New Generation Integrated (‘Anywhere Refridgeration’) products, which are amazingly designed to contain spillages if something should leak). SubZero’s Air Purification system removes harmful gases and odours, using a process that was developed initially for NASA to aid food preservation. The Dual Compressor system (standard on all Sub-Zero fridge/freezers) is a completely unique feature; separate compressors within the fridge and freezer sections allow each compartment to operate independently meaning that odour and flavour transference is prevented, as well as saving energy and keeping food fresher for longer. Wolf’s Dual Convection electric oven system, also exclusive to the brand, provides superior coverage eliminating uneven and inconsistent heating, and reducing cooking time.

The newest line is named New Generation Integrated, the largest product rollout in the company’s 68-year history. “Our new integrated refrigeration products represent the culmination of art and science in the kitchen,” said Jim Bakke, president and CEO of Sub-Zero & Wolf. “We’re bringing unparalleled freshness performance with the most flexible design features to one of our most popular lines. This line allows customers to have refrigeration virtually anywhere they want in their homes. We’ve invested a great deal in the latest technology to engineer these products to meet the expectations and needs of our savvy customers.” New features allow for even more design flexibility with four widths ranging from 457mm to 914mm; every model can be designed to ‘disappear’, sitting flush with the surrounding cabinetry and counter tops, or stand out.

With the size variations and flush-set design, integrated refrigeration can go anywhere you like, from the obvious places (kitchen/entertainment area) to the more unusual (home cinema/office).

Sub-Zero & Wolf Showroom, 251 Brompton Road, SW3 2EP 0845 250 0010; subzero-wolf.co.uk

LIFESTYLE

James Bakke cEo s

Which words could describe any of your products?

Innovative, best-in-class performance and quality What are the most important business lessons you have learnt from your father and grandfather? t B Sub-Zero in 1945, had a saying: “If you provide i technology and infrastructure to stay ahead of our customers’ evolving Do you have a favourite Sub-Zero or Wolf product?

I’m proud of our entire range but particularly fond of the product i We’ve made innovative changes over the years to this line, such as

What attitudes do your brand ambassadors share? o E c s

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INTERIORS

Double Act Recently awarded Homes and Gardens 2013 Interior Designer of the Year, OLIVIA SHARPE meets the two women behind the highly successful interior design practice, Carden Cunietti IF EVER THERE WAS a great example of serendipity, the story of how Audrey Carden and Eleanora Cunietti came to work together would be it. Like so many wellknown power couples, the union appears to have been predestined.

“We kept bumping into each other at design fairs, antique fairs, literally everywhere,” says Audrey, as we sit down in the design duo’s impressive studio in the heart of London. Like two creative magnets drawn together, the pair recognised their shared love of interior design and from this was born their brainchild, Carden Cunietti. For the past 17 years, the dream team has been responsible for kitting out some of the wealthiest homes across the globe.

However, if you were to rewind a couple of decades, you’d never have guessed that these two women would become business partners, not to mention lifelong friends. Audrey completed a master’s degree in Art History at Glasgow University and worked in the Decorative Arts department of Kelvingrove Art Gallery before a brief stint as a chalet girl made her realise this wasn’t the career for her. “I just wasn’t cut out to sit in a dusty museum for the rest of my life.” The rebellious 20-something subsequently went off to tour with a rock band and this was when she first met Eleanora (whose boyfriend happened to be in the band).

It wasn’t until a few years later when both women were living in London that they rediscovered each other. Audrey was working as a property developer

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and Eleanora was pursuing her dream of becoming a furniture designer (she studied at Ontario College of Art and Design in Toronto). After many run-ins at London design fairs, the two decided it was time to go into business together and that, as they say, was that.

Audrey and Eleanora settled on Westbourne Grove as the location for their first store which opened in 1996.

Famous for its antique shops, the fashionable Notting Hill provided the perfect backdrop. And yet, this wasn’t your average antique store. As well as selling furniture, it also served as the setting for the company’s growing interior design practice. Eleanora explains how this particular business model was relatively new at the time: “There

The dream team has kitted out some of the wealthiest homes across the globe were antique shops, or interior design shops, never the two together; the concept behind Carden Cunietti was to merge them.” An instant success, the shop was not only flooded with clients but a torrent of magazine editors who immediately fell in love with the pair’s toneddown glamour and timeless style. Carden Cunietti was launched onto an international platform after featuring in the likes of Vogue, Elle Decoration and House & Garden.

After a decade of running the store, Eleanora and Audrey felt it was time to spread their wings and expand the interior design side of the business. They moved from Notting Hill to a quiet street off bustling Edgware Road; they, and their devoted team of 12, have been based there ever since. Despite the change in location, the studio has remained true to the Carden Cunietti design ethos; incorporating the building’s original cast iron features, maple flooring and “funny little 60’s add-ons”

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INTERIORS

as Audrey puts it, it combines the traditional with the modern, the old and the new.

We’ve all been warned of the dangers of entering into business with friends but in the case of Audrey and Eleanora, it seems that they’re the exception to the rule.

Probing each to discover what they find difficult about working together, the answer is that this has never been an issue. “I couldn’t really work with anyone else”, says Audrey. “We genuinely get on very well; we’re constantly holidaying together and hanging out.” Laughing, Eleanora adds: “We both have younger sisters of our own and yet we see each other more than we see them! That’s what we’re like.” The business partners fairly split the workload down the middle and take it in turns to head up either one of their UK-based or international projects. Two of a kind, they pride themselves on “being very much in tune

The business partners take it in turns to head up projects with each other” so no matter who a client works with, he or she is guaranteed to receive “the same level of attention and taste.”

Carden Cunietti is committed to putting a client’s wants and needs above all else, and this no doubt explains why the company has such a high client retention rate. However, there have been one or two occasions when the pair has had to part ways with a customer due to creative differences; for them, it is essential that they’re all on the same wavelength in order for the project to run smoothly. “It’s very personal and if you don’t have that connection with the person, then it’s not going to work”, states Eleanora.

Audrey and Eleanora are always on the lookout for the next challenge and this has resulted in the birth of a new charity initiative. Constantly finding themselves with leftover stock, they came up with the idea of selling off unwanted products and using the proceeds to raise money for charity. Coined The Spring Clean, the project is still in the early stages as the pair is currently looking for other interior designers to take part in the worthwhile scheme but it is set to launch at some point next year.

Awarded the prestigious accolade of Homes and Gardens 2013 Interior Designer of the Year, there seems to be no end to the success of the Carden Cunietti partnership. I guess it’s true what they say; two heads are always better than one. carden-cunietti.com; thespringclean.co.uk

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Design by Philippe Starck

STARCK. A CLASSIC REVIVED.

Sanitaryware, bathroom furniture, bathtubs, shower trays, wellness products and accessories: Duravit has everything you need to make life in the bathroom a little more beautiful. More info at Duravit UK, Milton Keynes, Phone 0845 500 7787, Fax 0845 500 7786, info@uk.duravit.com, www.duravit.co.uk

Kids KINGDOM

BY RACHEL MULRENAN

Winter Warmers Catering to all your growing child’s seasonal clothing needs, the A/W13 collection from Marie-Chantal has arrived in the Royal Borough. The range features luxurious cashmere knits, fairytale dresses and tailored children’s suits. Highlights include a girls’ navy Russia coat, perfect for those frosty school mornings, and a gold jacquard dress, ideal for festive parties.

Marie-Chantal, 148 Walton Street, SW3 2JJ mariechantal.co.uk

Fall Down the Rabbit Hole…

By the Book

If you find yourself suffering from a lack of inspiration for keeping the little ones entertained this October half term, head to Park Lane for a tea party with a difference. Inspired by Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland, The Dorchester will be hosting a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, complete with themed cakes, sandwiches and homemade scones from 28 October to 1 November. Dancers from The English National Ballet will be performing as characters from the book and young guests will have the opportunity to try on costumes from the company’s archive. For every afternoon tea ordered, £1 will be donated to Cancer Research and, while the kids are enjoying themselves, parents can relax with a glass of champagne. That seems like a fair deal to us.

Children’s Book Week is descending upon the Royal Borough from 7 until 11 October. Run by Booktrust, a reading and writing charity, Children’s Book Week is an annual celebration of reading for pleasure aimed at children of primary school-age. Keep an eye out in the area for events such as author visits to schools, book swaps, creative writing activities and sponsored reads at local libraries, schools and bookshops.

thedorchester.com

booktrust.org.uk

London Baby American-born, London-based designer Karen Brost launched her first children’s collection last month, available this side of the pond exclusively at Liberty. Karen Brost London Baby aims to offer an artistic alternative to traditional baby clothes for stylish expectant parents or those looking for a special gift for a friend. The clothes feature irreverant, vibrantly coloured cartoons, such as a guitar and a monkey, and encapsulate a glamorous, fun-loving and witty approach to parenting. All designs include Karen Brost’s signature feathering technique, creating quality pieces of wearable art. karenbrost.com

Oxbridge Application Tips

Into the Wild For those whose young ones love nothing more than being outside with nature, children’s wallpaper company Hibou Home has released a new design inspired by the great outdoors. The Into the Wild print features block pine tree silhouettes amongst hand-drawn illustrations of woodland animals, including bears and wolves, and will add a touch of alpine chic to any nursery or child’s bedroom. Into the Wild is available in two colourways.

Hibou Home aims to bring style to childrens’ rooms, with fun and inspiring wallpaper designs. Designed and made in England, each roll is sustainably and ethically sourced. hibouhome.com

Going GaGa Ga Ga Theatre, a new theatre group for children, will launch its first production this autumn; an adaptation of Up & Down by award-winning children’s author Oliver Jeffers. Up & Down tells the story of a penguin who dreams of flying and his friendship with a young boy who tries to help him achieve his dream. Running from 11 October until 3 November, the production will be touring at six London Picturehouse cinemas, including Notting Hill, and will use the cinema screen alongside live action to create a modern type of theatre experience. Up & Down is suitable for babies and children up to the age of seven.

Ga Ga Theatre was founded in 2012, with the aim of making theatre more accessible for children on a local level, and a regular part of their lives.

Autumn brings with it many inevitable events; the back-to-school scramble, the retrieval of extra blankets to stay cosy, the search for last year’s winter clothing, and the dreaded university applictions.

With one month to go until the Oxbridge deadline, this is the most crucial time for your child’s application. If you fear your teen has spent too much time sunning and not enough time studying this summer, Oxbridge Applications are here to help with three top tips for aspiring Oxbridge students: Read around your personal statement.

Of course, it’s crucial to really know about the topics you have mentioned but don’t forget to expand on this. If you mentioned your love of Charles Dickens, there’s no harm in making sure you’ve read some other authors in the Victorian period; remember, more is more.

Admissions Tests. Practise, practise, practise!

Every year the statistics show that your score in these tests is increasingly crucial to your application. Get your hands on some practice papers and get cracking. The more mistakes you make now the fewer you’ll make on the big day, which could be the difference between an offer and a rejection.

Interviews. Now is the time to get those nerves out the way. You need to find someone who can give you subject-specific practise interviews. Ask your teachers to set aside 20 minutes to do this with you and make sure you’ve thought properly about the key question: Why do you want to do this subject? It’s amazing how many candidates don’t consider this until they are sat in front of the interview panel; don’t make the same mistake.

Oxbridge Applications is a research-based consultancy that provides help and support to students applying to Oxford and Cambridge. Get in touch with any queries about the company’s one-toone subject-specific mentoring and for advice as to how to prepare prospective students for the rigourous Oxbridge application process. oxbridgeapplications.com

gagatheatre.co.uk

Images: taken from the book Up & Down o HarperCollins Publishers © 2013 HarperCollins Publishers Ltd

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Floris is delighted to announce the opening of a new Bespoke Perfumery Boutique at 147 Ebury Street, Belgravia, 282 years since Mr and Mrs Floris opened the doors to their first Perfumery at 89 Jermyn Street.

&

HEALTH BEAUTY

BY OLIVIA SHARPE

Giles A/W13 Les 4 Ombres in 43 Mystère, £38 Chanel, chanel.com

Femme Nude Lip Stylo £22, Hourglass at Space NK Apothecary uk.spacenk.com

Les Voilettes translucent compact powder, £35 Guerlain, guerlain.com

E pencil in black, Burberry burberry.com

Strobe cream, £23.50 MAC Cosmetics maccosmetics.co.uk

Sleepy

Hollow

Giles’ A/W13 show reminded us of a Tim Burton film; models sported smoky eyes, smudged eyeliner and pale complexions. This season’s gothic trend was also seen at Gucci, Versace and Roksanda Ilincic

Cream colour base in Luna, £15, Mac Cosmetics maccosmetics.co.uk

Rouge allure in Noir £25, Chanel, chanel.com Le Vernis in Taboo, £18 Chanel, chanel.com

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Paint pot in stormy pink, £15, MAC Cosmetics, as before

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Editor’s Pick

HEALTH BEAUTY

Elizabeth Arden has extended its highly popular Skin Illuminating range to include a Brightening Eye Serum. With so many dud eye creams currently on the market, the new product from the multi-award winning skincare brand stands out from the rest, one which (dare we say it?) could potentially rival its signature Eight Hour Cream.

Smell the Roses A/W13 catwalks were drenched in a rosy glow as designers embraced their feminine sides and went all out in pink. And this trend doesn’t stop at fashion, as we’ve discovered with Jo Malone’s latest scent. Peony and Blush Suede is a fragile mix of floral notes including jasmine, roses and gillyflower, intermixed with a sensual blush suede and English pear and freesia. Womanly and alluring, you’re all set to look and smell irresistible this autumn.

Skin Illuminating Brightening Eye Serum, £60 elizabetharden.com

Peony and Blush Suede, from £39, Jo Malone London jomalone.co.uk

Back For Good After an unbearably hot tube journey, a cooling back facial (the best way to describe it) at QMS Medicosmetics couldn’t have been more welcome. My therapist was immaculate in both appearance and in carrying out the precise sequence of steps, the first of which was to cleanse and exfoliate my skin (gently, I must add – my tan didn’t disappear). A brush cleanse further removed any dry and dead skin cells and steam then opened pores (leading to extractions if needed).

The algae mask is the strangest part but it felt lovely; icy cold pulp was pasted onto my skin and left for seven minutes to cool and calm my skin, before being peeled off like a face mask. Oxygen drives ingredients like collagen from the serum deeper into the skin and my back was soothed with an application of Revitalising Lift-o-Firm Body.

I didn’t have any skin problems or blemishes on my back prior to the treatment but I’m certain that this would make a significant difference to the overall result if I had done.

Annabel Harrison

Kors a Stir Although his label’s profits continue to soar, this hasn’t stopped Mr. Michael Kors from coming up with new ways to boost his already bulging kitty. Enter his new cosmetics collection.

Emulating the likes of Tom Ford and Paul Smith, Kors has created his own eponymous beauty range; in partnership with Estée Lauder, it features perfumes, cosmetics and body products. The three fragrances (Sporty, Sexy and Glam) embody the Michael Kors aesthetic, as do the self-tanning products which give a natural, sportylooking glow. esteelauder.co.uk

!QMSMedicosmetics Back Treatment with Oxygen £85 (60 minutes) Flagship Skincare Spa & Store, 43 Cadogan Gardens, SW3 2TB 020 7730 8090; qmscosmetics.com

Cream of the Crop It has been pooh-poohed by some as another industry moneymaking scheme but there are in fact many advantages to CC Cream if you want a light and natural daytime look. If you’re going to invest, we recommend Chanel’s Complete Correction Cream SPF30 which offers both make-up coverage and skincare benefits. As well as its CC cream, the brand has launched three new skincare products (a day, night and weekend cream) designed to target all of your skin’s cellular rhythms. chanel.com

Helping Hand

Rebel Without a Cause Constantly in and out of the press for her partying antics, Cara Delevingne was born to front YSL’s latest cosmetics collection, Vernis à Levres Rebel Nudes.

Launched this September, the range is exclusively for lips and nails and includes eight different lip products, with names such as Nude Provocateur and Pink No Taboo, and four La Laque Couture nail shades. So go on; be a rebel.

Crème de la Mer is lending its support to Breast Cancer Awareness this October with the launch of a limited edition hand treatment. Featuring the skincare brand’s signature Miracle Broth, it has been designed to target dry skin and age spots. Priced at £35, £7 from each sale will be donated to the Foundation. cremedelamer.co.uk

yslbeauty.co.uk

VIP Service

Home Sweet Home

One of our favourite local hairdressers HARI’s has launched an exciting new offer: a complimentary VIP Club card for all clients which gives the owner access to some of the best deals in Kensington and Chelsea. This includes 30 per cent off Joseph fashion label purchases at its store on Brompton Road; a three day pass at Equinox gym; a bottle of house wine at Beaufort House with any meal; and a free Ralph Lauren satchel and colouring book at Ralph Lauren Kids. Visit now to get your exclusive card.

Roja Dove believes that “the scent of a room and the ambience of a home should be as personal and inviting as the fragrance on your skin”. Therefore, the British ‘Master Perfumer’ has decided to launch a range of candles featuring 12 fragrances, each of which works in harmony with the company’s Olfactory Palette – a unique scent classification system to help you identity your preferred scent, whether it be floral, chypré, oriental, or fougère. £75 each, available at Harrods harrods.com

harissalon.com

Brow Raiser Ever since reality television star Jodie Lundstram appeared with her enviably bushy brows, the world has gone mad about eyebrows. Whether neat and tidy or big and bushy, eyebrows were once again a key feature at the A/W13 fashion shows of Stella McCartney, Chloé, Haider Ackermann and Chanel.

Fascinated by the phenomenon and keen to be groomed in time for my holiday, I decided to pop along to the new Shavata Brow Studio on Beauchamp Place. Owner and beautician Shavata has 25 years of experience and believes eyebrows to be the defining feature of a person’s face: “Eyebrows aren’t there to be complimented. It’s like when you go into an art gallery; you never say ‘Wow what a beautiful frame’. The frame is there silently to make that painting look its best. My job is the same – to help complement the windows of the soul,” she explains.

As Shavata was unavailable, one of her trusted beauticians carried out the standard threading treatment. She worked quickly and efficiently and listened to my request to follow my existing line and keep my brows relatively thick but clean. Sadly the experience wasn’t painless but having never had one of these, I’m convinced this to be another beauty urban legend (like the one about the woman who fell asleep when having a Hollywood wax). I left watery-eyed but happy with my newly-tamed brows. All I can say is; watch out Cara Delevingne. Olivia Sharpe Shavata Brow Studio, 60 Beauchamp Place, SW3 1NZ shavata.co.uk

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Flying High More discreet than the Continental GT and faster than a Mulsanne, MATTHEW CARTER reckons the Flying Spur is the best Bentley yet

MOTORING

decision is needed! In the red corner there’s the brand new Bentley Flying Spur, the latest four-door saloon from Crewe and a car which truly encapsulates sporting luxury. It’s powered by a gargantuan 6-litre turbo-charged W12 engine producing 616hp, more than enough to give it a maximum speed of 200mph, and it has a sure-footed four-wheel drive chassis as standard. In the blue corner is another four-door Bentley, the older, rather more staid Mulsanne. This is powered by a mere V8 engine, albeit one that displaces 6.7 litres, and it has to make do with just 505hp driving just the rear wheels. Top speed is a comparatively feeble 184mph.

On paper it looks as if the verdict might already be going the Spur’s way… and the clincher will perhaps be the price. The newer car starts at around £150k and you’ll have to add a whole host of options to get it anywhere near the Mulsanne’s starting price, a hefty £226,000. OK, we’re not really comparing like-with-like: the Mulsanne is bigger, especially in the rear, and is hand-built, while the Flying Spur is mass-produced by

In the red corner there’s the new Bentley Flying Spur, the latest four-door saloon from Crewe comparison (it isn’t, of course, but you get my drift). More significantly, they appeal to different people. Mulsanne customers will head for the back seats while Spur buyers are drivers. And that’s the key. The Mulsanne is a car for chauffeurs. The Spur is a car to be driven.

This is the second generation Spur produced since the venerable British company was taken over by Volkswagen. Like its predecessor, it is closely related to the hugely successful Continental GT and, as a result, was called the Continental Flying Spur. But this time Bentley has widened the gap between the two and has rightly dropped the Continental element from its name.

The new car has a different look to the front and a far more stylish rear end, giving it its own identity; the sharp lines and creases in the aluminium bonnet and front wings, for example, are exceedingly complex to produce and hint at the effort that has gone into differentiating the Spur from the GT. Unlike the GT, which is available with a choice of 12 and eight cylinder power units, the Spur is (for the moment at least) only available with the W12.

Mind you, it’s a glorious engine, delivering its prodigious power and torque to all four wheels via a creamy smooth eight-speed automatic. Drive it gently and you won’t be aware of the gear-shifts as you glide along

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and progress will be serene, silent and almost sensual.

But this is a car that will reach 60mph from rest in 4.3 seconds and takes just over ten seconds to hit the ton.

Overtaking performance is exceptional; plant your foot on the accelerator and this limousine turns into a hot rod as it snarls its way down the road. This is Jekyll and Hyde in heavy metal guise, and never mind that you’ll struggle to better 20mpg; if you’re in the market for this sort of car, such a matter is a mere trifle.

The engine is matched by an exceptional chassis.

Air suspension ensures lumps and bumps that pockmark our roads can largely be ignored, while the four-wheel drive system ensures there’s plenty of grip when you need it. Exceptional ride comfort is a given, partly thanks to the softer springs and anti-roll bars specified by the new car (perhaps a nod to the demands of China’s plutocrats, who are by far the most numerous buyers of the Spur). The downside of that is too much pitch and squat when accelerating and braking hard, while spirited cornering is accompanied by more body roll than you might expect. That said, there are four settings for the electronic dampers, so it ought to be possible to reach some degree of compromise with a bit of juggling. While

we’re on the (negligible) negatives, those who prefer to travel in the back are likely to be a little disappointed.

The sloping roofline means rear headroom isn’t quite as generous as you might expect while the narrow rear and side windows help to make the back a bit claustrophobic, a problem compounded by tall front seats and, where specified, dark roof lining and upholstery.

There is the choice of a conventional three seater rear bench or a beautifully sculpted twin seat rear with a deep centre console with telephone, storage space, audio controls and, of course, a fridge big enough to hold a bottle of bubbly. Even so, if you want to ride in the back with your man up front, go for a light interior, or forget the Spur and buy a Mulsanne.

Sit in the front, though, and the Spur is hard to fault. As you’d expect, only the finest materials are used and the fit and finish is exemplary. The veneers have a deep, deep gloss and the handcrafted leather hides are soft enough to be used for ladies’ handbags, which Bentley has just done. The seats themselves are extremely comfortable and, cleverly, can be heated and ventilated at the same time.

The dashboard has a timeless elegance to it, though a rethink is needed when it comes to the

Overtaking performance is exceptional; plant your foot on the accelerator and this limousine turns into a hot rod

MOTORING

positioning of the indicator stalk: I lost count of the number of times I tried to indicate with the gearshift paddle fixed to the steering column behind the wheel.

However, while it might appear almost oldfashioned inside, the Spur is as modern as it gets. All the latest mobile connectivity can be found on board – it even has its own Wi-Fi hotspot – while the rear seat entertainment suite includes a hand-held touch screen remote which allows those in the back to choose what music is played through the sound system. There’s an 1100W Naim sound system on the options list for those who like their music on the loud side.

Despite the one or two minor disappointments, the Flying Spur does exactly what Bentley set out to achieve. It wanted to create a sporting limousine, a car that combined genuine performance with supreme comfort, and it’s done just that. Better still, it’s not as obvious as its two-door sibling.

So back to the conundrum posed at the beginning – Flying Spur or Mulsanne? To be honest, it’s game, set and match to the Spur. Blisteringly quick, it’s great to drive, great to ride in and not nearly as common as the Continental GT. And I haven’t even mentioned the (not insignificant) £75k saving yet. Frankly, it’s the best Bentley on the market by a long way.

IN BRIEF Car: Bentley Flying Spur Price: £149,900 Engine: 5,998cc, W12 Power: 616 hp Performance: 200 mph max, 0-60 mph in 4.3 seconds Drive: Four-wheel drive, eight-speed automatic

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PROMOTION

Time to

Investigate Companies spend millions of pounds investing, safeguarding and staying in control of their businesses, shares, securities, pensions and insurances; and it’s money well spent. We look into how more people are investing in private investigation services to gain peace of mind, both at work and at home

PRIVATE INVESTIGATORS find facts, analyse information about legal, financial and personal matters and identify the probability or threat of quantifiable damage, injury, liability, loss, or any other negative occurrence.

These can be caused by external or internal vulnerabilities and, by simply contacting a professional investigator, may be avoided through pre-emptive action and damage limitation.

Step into the world of private investigation If it all seems very MI5 or 007, well, perhaps it is. Long gone are the days of sleazy, undercover, disreputable detectives lurking in dark alleyways. Today advanced technology and investigative equipment within the legal domain allows access to almost all information through private investigators.

Kobus Coetzee, MD of Precision, comments: “Choosing the right agency for your particular needs is essential. Look for a company which complies with regulatory requirements and offers a service which is professionally and tastefully undertaken with information presented in a usable format. It’s really no use gathering results which will not stand up in court if required. Private investigation practices are themselves frequently under investigation for misconduct. For professional assurance we comply with the Regulator of Investigatory Powers, Data Protection and Computer Misuse Acts.

“At Precision we take all our clients seriously and have a sympathetic understanding of the potentially emotional impact of the information gathered. We understand that, whether the case is large or small, it is having a direct impact on the lives of our clients and our assistance is key to their peace of mind. ”

we gather evidence to allow our clients to regain control of their lives, whether financially or personally. How the intelligence is used is down to the individual but we are disconnected with the emotional aspects of the case, therefore offering objectivity and clarity to support clients through the process.”

Other services include risk management: • Risk Assessments Briefing, or an intelligence report, on any particular country.

• Medical Planning Medical information on the region you’re travelling to and a 24-hour medical emergency number for immediate medical crisis assistance.

• Trip Planning Assessing and mitigating any identified threat by the provision of appropriate travel support including tracking, escorting and complete close protection.

• Contingency Planning Contingency and crisis management planning, training and implementation.

• Crisis Communications Management of crisis situations and subsequent communication to all affected stakeholders.

Looking for the right business partner?

Act now

Precision Risk Intelligence provides a professional and personal service right in the heart of London. Offering a select, handpicked staff with worldwide connections and capabilities, the company provides an elite service with expertise in all areas of risk and intelligence management drawn from unique, global partnerships. Specialising in confidential investigation, Precision Risk Intelligence is supported and utilised internationally by large solicitor firms.

“If you’re considering using a private investigator then there’s already something that needs addressing in your life, however trivial it may seem,” Coetzee continues. “Contacting us is just a proactive move from knowing to taking control. In the business of Private Investigation it’s called Reverse Engineering – the player becomes the played, the stalker becomes the stalked, the powerful become the powerless. At Precision Risk Intelligence

Precision Risk Intelligence is offering readers of The Kensington & Chelsea Magazine a free half-hour confidential consultation session and assessment in its Knightsbridge office. Contact Kobus Coetzee by phone on 020 7590 3044 or via email on kobus.coetzee@precisionriskintelligence.com Visit precisionriskintelligence.com for more information

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www.vgnewtrend.it

ph. Andrea Pancino C

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VG Studio at

inspirations vision

style

design

www.idesign-int.com info@inspirationsoftickhill.co.uk Tel: 01302 760040

high life

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For art with heart, head to Daphne’s in South Kensington before the end of September to enjoy an exhibition featuring artwork by well-known celebrities to raise funds for Great Ormond Street Hospital. The participants, including Jade Jagger, Bill Nighy, Ronnie Wood and Alan Rickman, have each decorated and embellished a simple heart sketch, with some interesting and eye-catching results; Rickman turned the hearts into flowers and added a vase to the sketch, while Bonham Carter enlisted her childrens’ help to complete her interpretation. Daphne’s Drawings will be on show until 1 October and each artwork will be available to purchase.

Daphne’s, 112 Draycott Avenue, SW3 3AE daphnes-restaurant.co.uk

Victoria Pendleton’s creative interpretation

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Travel

THE WORLD

BY RACHEL MULRENAN

Masters of Design It’s been 20 years since the launch of Design Hotels and in celebration a limited-edition XXL version of the Design Hotels Book 2013 has been released. A curated guide to 244 of the world’s most inspirational and original hotels, this year’s tome is twice the size of those in previous years, with 800 pages of beautiful images by renowned photographers and features by international journalists. Limited to 1,000 copies, the book weighs in at a hefty 25 kilograms so it’s fortunate that each copy comes complete with a specially customised table and stool by the iconic designer Alvar Aalto. The book is also available in a smaller size, an impressive addition to a coffee table. designhotels.com/shop

Kempinski Cool The first internationally-branded hotel to open in Budapest after the collapse of the Soviet Bloc has undergone a major refurbishment. The five-star Kempinski Hotel Cornivus Budapest, located on the eastern side of the River Danube and in the centre of the city’s fashion district, was originally designed

by Hungarian architect Jozsef Finta. The new décor is modern with a nod to traditionalism; envisage tanned leather sofas, bronze tables, walnut panelling and low lighting. Updates to the hotel include an Art Nouveau style grand staircase, ÉS Bisztró, a modern brasserie offering Hungarian-Viennese food in relaxed surroundings, and The Living Room, a contemporary interpretation of Budapest’s traditional coffee houses. kempinski.com/budapest

Photography: Design Hotels™

Hirst Looks to the East This October, Qatar will be hosting Damien Hirst’s inaugural solo exhibition in the Middle East. Relics will be the largest collection of Hirst’s work ever shown in one place, including both iconic and previously unseen work from the contemporary artist. Famously fascinated by death, in his work Hirst explores its relationship and interaction with life, love and art. He is perhaps most well known for his 2007 piece For the Love of God, a skull encrusted with more than 8,000 flawless diamonds and which cost £14 million to create. Relics runs from 10 October until January next year at the Al-Riwaq Art Exhibition Space in Doha as part of a cultural programme that aims to highlight bilateral links between the UK and Qatar.

A Little Place in the Country For a countryside retreat without the hassle of a long car journey, check into Laura Ashley The Manor, the first luxury boutique hotel from the quintessentially English brand, situated in Elstree, Hertfordshire. Just ten miles from central London, The Manor sits on the site of an old house dating back to 1540 and it’s surrounded by ten acres of woodland and landscaped gardens with classic English blooms. Each of the 49 rooms has been individually designed and decked out in the Laura Ashley Home Collection and the hotel boasts a gourmet restaurant offering seasonal British produce, and a bar with a cosy log fire and large selection of fine whiskies; perfect for an autumn minibreak.

damienhirst.com lauraashleyhotels.com

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Baby,

It’s Cold Outside

ANNABEL HARRISON travels to the postcard-perfect Swiss ski resort of Arosa for sledging, sunshine, snow, schnapps and, of course, some skiing

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‘Learn to ski’ trip, as someone closer to 40 than four, reveals what I already guessed about the sporting endeavour; it is just so much easier to learn if you’re young, fearless and close to the ground. The same goes for diving, cycling and horse-riding, all requiring a ‘throw-yourselfinto-it’ attitude, with little thought given to whether limbs will stay intact. In fact, on the morning of my first lesson, I watch tiny children, starfish-shaped in colourful snowsuits, whizzing down the baby slope with their instructors while I struggle to master the snow plough, envious of how good they’ll be by my (relatively) grand old age.

However, it’s also confirmed on the same trip that five-star treatment can go a long way towards soothing the inevitable bumps and bruises; somehow these feel less troublesome after schnapps and fondue cheese, both in plentiful supply at my ski base for the weekend, the Tschuggen Grand Hotel. If the name rings a bell, it might well be because earlier this year, the resort hit the headlines when the hotel played host to HRH the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, staying for the wedding of polo player Mark Tomlinson to Olympic gold medallist Laura Bechtolsheimer.

Well, what a lovely place to get married, I think to myself as our Tschuggen minibus chugs up through the snow-coated resort to the fabled hotel. At this juncture I should point out that my journey thus far has comprised both plane and trains; ski resorts aren’t usually easily accessible from the nearest airport. So travel the Swiss way – by train (and these are thoroughly Swiss in their wonderful timekeeping, although beware the chopstick jungle of unwieldy skis cluttering the aisles). After a speedy, easy one hour, 20 minute flight from London Gatwick, a ten minute journey to the Zurich main station is followed by a journey of just over an hour to Chur, along the banks of the enormous Lake Zurich, and then another, much slower train to Arosa. This part of the journey is the most picturesque; slopes speckled with little huts reminiscent of iced gingerbread houses, pretty trickling streams, grazing deer and snow-capped peaks (on an eerily misty morning).

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So far my Swiss stereotype is accurate. However, the exterior of our hotel somewhat thwarts my woodenlodge expectations. “From the outside you may think, ‘oh my goodness it looks like a hospital’”, chirrups Florian, the hotel’s charismatic assistant manager, and Jutta, the Group’s director of communications, agrees. It burnt down in 1966 and was rebuilt in the 70s, perhaps explaining its dated appearance. Inside, though, it’s another story. The words that spring to mind are eclectic, unusual and unique; I’ve never been anywhere quite like it. I had to fight to override my preference for neutral hotel decor in favour of interiors inspired by nature, and therefore a cacophony of colours, fabrics, textures and styles. My room features a patchwork headboard and red leather chairs, each floor boasts a phalanx of matching hand-painted doors (mine were orange) and I spy many contemporary prints, as well as artwork matching the chairs next to it. Take note of a huge chair twinset near

My sledging advice is to wrap up warm and hold on tight; it’s surely more dangerous than skiing reception which is upholstered in the oldest Hermès material. It’s not all to my taste – particularly the deer shaped mirrors – but it’s quite easy to get used to it.

First on the agenda, after a carb-fest of a lunch, is sledging. We travel by Tschuggen Express, the hotel’s very own (brilliant) 12-seat funicular for guests; the pods take you, plus skis or sledge, on a rollercoaster-esque track up a rather steep slope to the start of the run in just two-and-a-half minutes. My sledging advice is simply this; wrap up warm and hold on tight. I would wager that it is more dangerous than skiing, at least for novices. We bomb down the slopes with screams of joy, mingled with mild terror, and, I confess, almost entirely out of control.

We survive two half-mile sledge runs – ending pink-cheeked, smiling, limbs intact – and they, along with the freshest of air, induce a ferocious appetite. Happily

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supper is to be taken at the Michelin-starred La Vetta restaurant. It’s one of the five boasted by the hotel and only seats 30 guests at a time, in order to deliver the most spectacular presentation. The second course, for example, is one of the prettiest dishes I’ve ever seen – a fried prawn is accented by green peas, ham foam and puffed rice – and my favourite is the delicious bass with potato cream, apple compote and tiny onions. We devour two amuse bouches and five courses – also including foie gras with confitted aubergine and Arosa lamb with pumpkin – but despite this, nothing is so heavy you feel over-full. Save room for pudding; the parfait mousse of plantation chocolate with lime granite and exotic fruit salad arranged in a solar system fashion actually is out of this world.

It’s a miracle I can manage breakfast the next morning after such a feast but manage I do, due to the anticipated exertion ahead of me. I enjoy croissants and home-made jam at the breakfast buffet in the Grand Restaurant, which is bustling with people in ski attire, and stare out the window, marvelling at the glorious weather we’re lucky enough to have for our day of ski lessons. We meet our instructor Benito at the Tschuggen Ski Shop (where guests can rent complimentary ski equipment) and head off to the baby slope, which we have to ourselves all day, except for tiny twin girls and a little snowboarder. Learning to ski is hard work but so much fun, especially against a backdrop of bright blue skies and pristine white snow. Lunch at the Tschuggen Hütte is much needed and everyone in our group indulges in pasta, chips and cheese-based dishes, as well as sugary drinks (or beer) for energy.

By the end of the afternoon session, most of us have mastered snow plough turns and, excitingly, we’re

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taken for a run down part of the ‘grown-up’ slopes.

I decide that I love skiing by the end of our lesson, despite my aching muscles, not only from skiing but also walking in ski boots, which is exhausting. An après-ski drink is very much enjoyed, as is a long soak in my bath, a haven of neutral and chrome. As seems to be the case when skiing, we’re either exercising or refuelling so next we enjoy local pink sparkling wine and canapés, to the lovely sound of piano music. We head downstairs into the relaxed Swiss Bündnerstube restaurant, where we start with a mixed air-dried Grison meat platter. Don’t go overboard; the main course, for nine of us, comprises three saucepan-sized vats of cheese fondue laced with truffle and champagne. Goodness me, what a meal. If I haven’t already made this clear, calorie counters, it’s time to give up. And if the cheese indulgence isn’t quite enough, try out the Swiss tradition of dipping bread in schnapps and then in the cheese (not for the faint of stomach). A brilliant end to the meal is a round of bowling, possible thanks to the two-lane bowling alley in the restaurant.

On our final day, despite an urge to take to the slopes again, I am secretly quite glad that my morning comprises a massage in the expansive, 5,000m2 Tschuggen Bergoase Spa, a veritable health and beauty temple designed by the Swiss architect Mario Botta. If big is better, then this spa is the best. It is truly colossal. All the wood used is Canadian maple and of particular note are the seven sails – huge, aesthetically-impressive 3D triangles of glass and light that look spectacular at night.

If I go skiing again, and I very much hope to, this is where I want to be.

INFORMATION The Tschuggen Grand Hotel, Arosa, has rooms available from approx. £352 per night in a double Bergoasen room on a B&B basis (includes VAT, complimentary admission to the Tschuggen Bergoase and use of the Tschuggen Express.

Excludes visitor’s tax) tschuggen.ch / +41 81 378 9999 The Swiss Travel System provides a dedicated range of travel passes and tickets exclusively for visitors from abroad. The Swiss Transfer Ticket covers a round-trip between the airport/Swiss border and your destination ( £90 in second class and £144 in s Switzerland Travel Centre on 0800 100 200 30 or visit swisstravelsystem.co.uk o on on

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At the Edge of

TheWorld

KATHERINE LEVY explores the British Virgin Islands pirate-style, sailing fuelled by rum, exploring expansive Neverland-style developments and escaping reality on Guana Island

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RICHARD BRANSON bought Necker, his own private Caribbean idyll in the British Virgin Islands, for a relatively modest £180,000, 35 years ago. Not all of us are as savvy as Sir Richard but we do deserve to feel like him occasionally, and spending a week just a mile away from Necker did it for me.

The BVI is an archipelago of 60 islands floating between Antigua and Puerto Rico and, as far as the Caribbean goes, it is a relatively untapped gem; there is a community of billionaires, most of whom sail here, but it isn’t heaving like Monaco or the Costa Smeralda. This meant our sundown cocktail wasn’t blighted by wall-towall sails and it all felt relaxed and informal; even Sir Richard is said to wander around with creased trousers and wind-swept hair rather than crisp designer apparel.

It is clear why the BVI is a contender for the title ‘sailing

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capital of the world’; it is one of the few places where there is a consistently fine breeze to sail, with the wind ranging from five to about 15 knots (that is, unless you catch the stormy season between June and November).

Two of the BVI’s largest islands are Tortola and Virgin Gorda, mountainous and green with sandy fringes and turquoise cays, viewed from the vantage point of a charter plane they could be floating turtle humps.

Necker is situated on the outer skirt of the North Sound, a protected circle of water encased by the curves of Virgin Gorda, a national park island called Prickly Pear and Mosquito Island (also owned by Branson). Within the North Sound lies a selection of resorts and yacht clubs, including the YCCS Marina Virgin Gorda, a sister club to the famous Yacht Club Costa Smeralda and host to the nascent Loro Piana Caribbean Superyacht Regatta.

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The YCCS Marina is rather glamorous, so families seeking a more relaxed yachting vibe should opt for the Bitter End Yacht Club. Situated at the farthest inner curve of the North Sound, Bitter End owns 100 vessels including sailboats, catamarans, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and motorboats. As we pulled up to the dock it felt like we had reached a stop-off in a Pirates of the Caribbean-themed cruise; we had to walk along a wooden jetty to reach a kitsch bar with wicker armchairs aplenty. The club was established in the 70s by an American couple who were captivated by the North Sound and its beauty, reminiscent of a Scottish loch.

Today it’s run by bustling American manager Mary Jo Ryan who had a Painkiller cocktail in our hands before we’d had a moment to ask what was in it (local Pusser’s rum, orange and pineapple juice, coconut cream and freshly grated nutmeg). You can rent beach cottages here with wooden terraces looking out over the emerald water.

Anyone wanting to do the BVI Branson-style has to charter a luxury catamaran, so that’s exactly what we did. Our crew comprised a young, professional South African couple who had tales of working aboard 200-ft celebrity superyachts. At night we’d anchor somewhere like Bitter End, take the dingy to the dock and drink sundown Painkillers until it was time to be ferried back to our dazzling white home floating in the dark, quiet waters.

Dinner came in the tempting form of dishes such as duck breast and berry sauce aboard the yacht and then we’d

climb up to the rooftop and sprawl out on the white leather banquettes like Jennifer Lopez in a music video. One night we indulged in some devilish rum and, five shots later, were fighting over the onboard iPad hooked up to the music system: I wanted Lady Gaga, he wanted the Chili Peppers. By the time we descended to our cabin we were so drowsy from the combination of sun, salt, swimming and shots that the small cabin space didn’t bother us.

The next day we made a short journey to a luxury property development called Oil Nut Bay, owned by American development magnate David Johnson. Stretched across the eastern peninsula of Virgin Gorda, Oil Nut Bay is aimed at multimillionaires looking for their fifth or sixth home. It’s years away from completion, with freehold lots still up for grabs. Part millionaire village, part resort, guests effectively rent properties when they’re not being used by the owners. Oil Nut Bay currently owns all of the land and resort facilities except the 23 home sites that have been purchased (some homes are still under construction).

Oil Nut Bay also owns three cliff suites, a trio of glass-walled flats etched into the rocky eastern clifftops of Virgin Gorda. Here it feels like you’re in the Arizona desert but for the infinite view of the wild Atlantic.

‘The Cliffs’ feature ocean view terraces (in March you can see whales migrating), outdoor plunge pools and glass-walled wet rooms. The most exclusive of the three – the penthouse – sits at the highest point of the cliffs and boasts a wraparound outdoor terrace and interiors

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designed by Fendi. It is dazzlingly over the top, just like the whole development, which has a touch of Michael Jackson’s Neverland about it; a place run by Americans where you are told that everything is perfect.

Our final stop was Guana Island, an 850-acre private island resort, which describes itself as an oasis of privacy, and it truly is. From the dock we were whizzed up by buggy to the island’s summit and met with a panoramic view of the Caribbean and the Atlantic, the old sugar mill and flamingos dipping into the salt ponds. The resort only has 32 rooms, so it felt incredibly exclusive.

No wonder this island is where Hollywood couples come to stay (they won’t say who).

Despite this the vibe was informal, dinner taken on the candlelit terrace where by night the jasmine and moonlight transported us to a magical place, and by day the terrace was filled with yellow-breasted birds. The new resident cook is a talented Spaniard who has come from Nobu in London; his food was light and refreshing and he experimented with traditional Caribbean fusion so effectively that I sighed with delight at a mousse he whipped up from mangoes grown locally. Guana Island will definitely suit those romantic types longing for quiet.

The rooms don’t have TVs but some have writing tables and the main activity is hiking through the tropical forest trails; we were lucky enough to spot a rare rock iguana.

The BVI left us feeling like if we sailed any farther we might drop off the edge of the world. You’ll find a different kind of luxury there; places like Oil Nut Bay and Guana Island don’t have locks on the doors (no room keys to lose on the beach) and are reassuringly secure.

You can be as active or as inert as you like but, more to the point, this group of islands, in their own rich and varied way, simply has something for everyone.

MORE INFORMATION Turquoise Holidays have a number of properties across the BVI, including The Bitter End Yacht Club (seven nights from £2,595pp in a Beachfront Cottage on full board basis) and Guana Island (seven nights from £2,499pp in a Sea View Cottage on a full board basis) 01494 678 400; turquoiseholidays.co.uk o

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t yacht charter in the British Virgin Islands from £775 per day, sleeping up to six people. oilnutbay.com / 0844 273 1917; moorings.co.uk For further details visit bvitourism.co.uk

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Midnight in

Paris

SASKIA RUMBELOW visits France’s capital city, eschewing her usual base of hotels in favour of a rather more homely, and surprisingly luxurious, option WHEN STAYING ABROAD, some hotels seem to find it difficult to strike a balance between making you feel important but relaxed; I like the feeling of being their top priority but not an inconvenience, an uncomfortable sense of hierarchy lingering in the atmosphere. Within five minutes of reaching La Réserve, though, this balance was evident; I felt like I was returning to my own, homely palace, with my family waiting at the entrance.

As my guest and I arrived at the discreet-looking entrance, weary from our flight, I was intrigued yet slightly anxious. How could a place of such supposed grandeur and elegance be located on this average-looking Parisian street? However, as we pulled up outside a beautifully

ornate cast iron door, there was a charming, smartly dressed man awaiting our arrival. In an instant, he was holding open the door of the car and greeting us on first name terms; this thoughtful attention to detail instantly made me feel at home. The lobby was tiny but had that strong feeling of understated elegance, something the French do so brilliantly. What most significantly sets La Réserve apart, though, is that it is not a large chain hotel, not a self-catered apartment, not even a boutique hotel; it is a wonderfully clever blend of apartmentsized privacy and hands-on hotel-standard service.

As someone who enjoys peace and quiet, and relaxed luxury, I felt like I’d landed in my own Parisian heaven.

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As we made our way up to our apartment (minus bulky luggage, of course) my guest and I could hardly contain our excitement. The doors were flung open, we were shown all the amenities and then our staff disappeared to let us soak up our surroundings. It felt like something out of a film as we surveyed our view, the Eiffel Tower majestically towering over us, so clear in the early evening sky. As soon as I saw the Jacuzzi and fluffy white robes, I couldn’t resist unwinding in the gigantic tub before dinner. Complete with essential oils and an equally essential glass of champagne, I well and truly left the stress of London behind me as soft French jazz played out of the Bose speakers.

By this point I was utterly absorbed in my environment and when we were given the choice of having dinner brought in for us, it was anything we wished, naturally. However, many months prior to this trip we had made reservations at Le Jules Verne, a Michelin-starred restaurant on the second floor of the

disturb us to delivering me a delicious hot chocolate at 1am when I was struggling to sleep, nothing is too much trouble at La Réserve and the members of staff welcome you like a family member.

Whether it was the breathtaking view, the food, the wine or just the luxury that the French do so well, I am well and truly smitten and I am counting down the days until I can go back.

Rates at La Réserve Paris start from €1,400 per night for a one-bedroom apartment (including VAT and taxes, breakfast, housekeeping, La Réserve’s butler service, concierge, grocery shopping and home delivery).

Additional services available upon request; lareserve.ch

Nothing is too much trouble

Eiffel Tower. As expected, this was one of the most breathtaking views I have ever enjoyed during a dining experience; watching Paris by night whilst devouring pan-seared buttery scallops was a winning combination that I will never forget. The tasting menu completed, complemented by some of the most nectar-like wines imaginable, it was safe to say my first night in Paris was more luxurious then I could have imagined.

Waking up the next morning in a king-size bed with crisp white Egyptian cotton sheets, I could smell the sweet aroma of what I hoped was a late morning breakfast. One would think I couldn’t possibly be hungry after last night’s feast but as soon as I set eyes on cinnamon French toast and freshly ground coffee, it was too good to resist and set me up for the day. Laid out on the table in the adjoining room, the staff at La Réserve had completely mastered the ‘seen and not heard’ style of service and nothing was too much trouble for them.

I happily made use of the vast amount of space in our suite to lay out numerous clothing combinations; a trip to the opera in the offing, outfit choice was a big factor.

As with any holiday, the days in Paris went by far too quickly and I was sad to leave this city I had already fallen in love with. There is no way this trip would have been as special if it wasn’t for La Réserve and it was the understated luxury that truly won me over. From next door’s puppy being taken to reception so it didn’t

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classic dishes, beautifully cooked. cosy, rustic, informal and incurably romantic

6 Old Court Place Kensington Church Street London W8 4PL

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www.maggie-jones.co.uk 020 7937 6462

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BY RACHEL MULRENAN

Photography: Michael

Harrison

Evans Above Walking into Evans & Peel is like being transported to a clandestine drinking den straight out of 1920s America. There is no chance of merely stumbling upon this basement speakeasy, with its entrance concealed just off Earl’s Court Road, and that is clearly the way the owners like it. After being granted admission via an intercom, my friend and I found ourselves being questioned by one of the firm’s ‘detectives’ as to what ‘case’ had brought us there, before being shown through an entrance concealed by a bookcase.

Inside, the bar was a sultry mix of candlelight, bare brick walls and a soundtrack of 1920s ragtime and smooth jazz. Intimate tables for two were dotted amongst larger tables with cinema seating for chairs, and quirky decorations such as antelope heads lined the walls. I began with a Hemingway’s Breakfast, a modern take on the daiquiri, with Photography: Michael Harrison grapefruit-infused rum and maraschino cherry. Delicious as it was, the drink was deadly strong; cocktails here come with double measures as standard (Prohibition-style) so if you prefer a slightly weaker drink, Freshly made rye bread is served with all drinks, but for a more I recommend you ask for a single. My friend, a whisky-drinking Scotsman, substantial meal, there is a menu of sharing dishes, such as smoked pork tried the Rick’s Café Americain, which was an Old Fashioned updated with belly sliders. Even at 7pm on a Tuesday evening, the bar was fairly full Morroccan Espresso Bitters. and, with its low lighting and atmospheric soundtrack, Evans & Peel is the The hit drink of the evening proved to be the pun-tastic Three Whey, an perfect location for a midweek date, although we were told by staff that it unusual combination of Hennessey cognac, Pernod, clarified milk, sweet syrup, gets fairly rowdy at the weekends! Rachel Mulrenan coconut cream and lemon, which turned out to be creamy yet refreshing, and deliciously moreish. If you’re feeling brave, ask for the off-menu house Evans & Peel Detective Agency, 310c Earl’s Court Road, SW5 9AQ specialty; a chicken fat-infused rye whisky. I’ll say no more than that…

020 7373 3573; evansandpeel.com

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Venus, Goddess of Champagne?

Jeff Koons is the latest artist to collaborate with Dom Pérignon on a limited edition bottle design.

Adapted from Koons’ iconic work of the same name, Balloon Venus is a smaller replica of the feminine sculpture and opens to reveal a limited edition bottle of Dom Pérignon Rosé Vintage 2003. With each set made to order, the Balloon Venus is strictly limited to a run of 650 bottles. Additionally there are two Koons gift boxes available with Dom Pérignon Vintage 2004 and Dom Pérignon Rosé Vintage 2003. Previous Dom Pérignon collaborations include industry heavyweights Karl Lagerfeld and Marc Newson.

All Aboard the Gourmet Odyssey The highly popular annual London Restaurant Festival returns to the capital from 3-21 October, and this year Laurent-Perrier, official champagne sponsor of the event, is offering three gourmet tours of the city, a must-try for all foodies. The first tour takes in the recently opened Chop Shop, the Social Eating House, Picture and Gymkhana, and the second, grandly titled The Masters Tour, begins at Benares, before moving to Wild Honey and finishing at Gauthier Soho. The third scales new heights at the Shard, offering three courses and drinks at Hutong and Aqua Shard. In each restaurant, courses will be served with Laurent-Perrier champagne matched to the dishes. londonrestaurantfestival.com

domperignon.com/dpballoonvenus

Fashion’s Food Last month saw the launch of Harvey Nichols’ own label food range, Riot of Colour, to be sold at the Foodmarket on the fifth floor of the Knightsbridge store. Moving on from the now-iconic black and white labelled food range launched in 1992, the new collection marks the next generation in fashionable food. The 80-product selection reflects the changing eating habits of Londoners and as such includes popular superfoods agave syrup, molasses and avocado oil. It also features a variety of herbal teas, including You Beauty, made with hibiscus, rose petals, Chinese white tea, rosehip and lemongrass. The innovative and functional range aims to boost wellbeing inside and out; it’s certainly a colourful addition to any stylish kitchen. harveynichols.com

East Meets West If Chinese haute cuisine is your idea of heaven, Mr Chow is your mecca. After exploding onto the scene in the late 60s, it retains a Mad Men feel, harking back to a time before line-caught tuna and electric cigarettes. Today, it continues to attract an eclectic and interesting crowd worthy of owner Michael Chow’s impeccable taste. The restaurant’s glossiness is balanced by a fine collection of modern art, elegant rosewood chairs and of course, food cooked to perfection. I recommend the starter of minced squab chicken with diced vegetables followed by Mr Chow’s take on a quarter-duck. Light and crisp, this is Chinese with a difference.

Mr Chow, 151 Knightsbridge, SW1X 7PA 020 7589 7347; mrchow.com

Giving Thanks Next month sees Bar Boulud looking to its roots across the pond with a big Thanksgiving celebration. On 28 November the French-American bistro will be serving a traditional three-course Thanksgiving menu, including dishes such as sweet potato purée and corn bread stuffing.

Guests can choose from a selection of two starters and two desserts, and the meal will be accompanied by sommelier-selected wine. For those who can’t make the feast, guests can purchase pumpkin and pecan pies to take away and share. Created by Head Pastry Chef Hélène Rosier, each pie serves eight and will be available to buy from the restaurant from 25-28 November. If you fancy a more intimate dining experience, the private rooms at Bar Boulud are available for Thanksgiving parties of up to 20 people.

Bar Boulud, Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park 66 Knightsbridge, SW1X 7LA mandarinoriental.com/london/fine-dining

Red House Rules It’s official. I love Red House (formerly known as the Markham Inn); the décor is cool and simple, the food is satisfying and the staff are fantastic. ‘Bistro’ is the key word here; the food is better (and pricier) than gastro-pub-grub but it’s by no means fine dining, so it’s perfect for a weekday meal out, a relaxed Friday supper (the restaurant is open every evening 5-11pm) or lazy Sunday roast. Tan leather booths and wooden panelling are broken up by modern touches, like black and white framed pictures, and a huge skylight above the main dining area brings warmth and light even on a grey day.

Sampling a bar platter and a pre-supper cocktail (gin, egg white, raspberry and rhubarb) prior to a three-course meal should feel like a big mistake but it’s all so good we hardly mind; our selection includes naughty-but-nice, filling snacks such as sausage rolls, cheese fondue and scotch eggs. If your post-work drink turns into four, this is the stomachlining solution for you. Scottish manager Iain is chatty and friendly but never stopping too long, and Marlena is really funny (not something I often say about a waitress). The service throughout the meal is excellent and really makes our evening special.

Our starters of green asparagus with crispy quail eggs and Spanish octopus are great, both served with chorizo which adds a good, salty kick to proceedings. Although filling up fast, I devour my

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Dining With 007 To celebrate the release of the new James Bond book, Solo, by William Boyd, The Dorchester is hosting a series of events with a touch of 007. Solo opens with Bond enjoying a birthday breakfast at The Dorchester in 1969 and in honour of this, any guests who quote Solo when making a breakfast reservation until the end of November will receive a complimentary copy of the book. The hotel will recreate the feel of the swinging 60s, with music and newspapers from the era, as well as silver service. At a book reading by the author himself on 28 September, Boyd will share his experiences of writing the book and sign copies for guests. Again, to recreate the 60s, there will be vintage cars in the forecourt of the hotel, and characters dressed up in fashion from that decade, a dress code with which guests are welcome to join in. For those who like their martinis Bond-style, the hotel bar is offering Martini master classes, with alchemist bar manager Giuliano Morandin.

The Dorchester, 53 Park Lane, W1K 1QA thedorchester.com

whole plate of wild sea bass with green olive tapenade, and an additional side of quinoa and spring vegetables, while my rather braver guest goes American with a meaty USDA strip steak. In fact, my guest’s peanut butter coupe desert also sounds distinctly American (and therefore it is suitably rich and decadent) while I opt for old British favourite sticky toffee pudding. The ice-cream flavours are amazing; who doesn’t love cornflake and salted caramel?

Marlena and Iain reinforce their impeccable hospitality by joining us for an aperitif of Limoncello and persuading us that we definitely can’t leave without a post-supper cocktail. Beware the mojitos; delicious but deadly. The venue is available for private hire and I reckon it’d be a pretty great place for a party. Annabel Harrison Red House, 2 Elystan Street, SW3 3NS 020 7581 9139; rhlondon.com

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Olive Oil A L’Olivier Extra Virgin Olive Oil, £6.45 (25cl) This extra-virgin olive oil has a

Olives Empeltre Black Olives, £2.95 (180g) Cured in brine oil for a minimum of six months, these mild and slightly sweet olives from Brindisa are the perfect appetiser.

R Garcia and Sons, 246 Portobello Road, W11 1LL rgarciaandsons.com

salad dressings or marinades.

Partridges of Sloane Square 2-5 Duke of York Square, SW3 4LY A L’Olivier is also available at Harrods and Whole Foods

c Fernandez & Wells blend, £6.50 (250g) This popular London blend to take home.

Fernandez & Wells 8a Exhibition Road, SW7 2HF fernandezandwells.com

Wine Chateau Minuty Rosé, £11.95 Savour the memory of summer with this crisp dry rosé, straight from Provence.

Roberson Wine 348 Kensington High St, W14 8NS robersonwine.com

Best in the Borough Bread Sally Clarke sourdough bread, £2.60 (400g) This longfermented sourdough loaf has a delicious crusty exterior and Clarke’s 1 Campden Street, W8 7EP sallyclarke.com

Cheese Daylesford Bledington Blue Cheese, £10 (350g) Awardwinning blue cheese from the organic Gloucestershire farm.

Daylesford Farmshop and Café, 208-212 Westbourne Grove, W11 2RH daylesford.com

“One can not think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well”. Although Virginia Woolf wrote these words more than a century ago, they retain a real resonance today. In an age of food scandals and scares, BSE, GM foods and ‘horsegate’, the need to dine well seems if anything more pressing than ever. Artisan produce could be seen as an antidote to the sterile pre-packaged foods found in supermarket chains and, here in the Royal Borough, we’re lucky to have an abundance of delicious goods on our doorstep. There really is no excuse for not indulging from time to time, so let us guide you through the best in the borough…

Chocolate

Salmon

Chocolate bars, £4.50 (70g) These perennially popular bars

Lidgate’s wild salmon, £18.95 (4oz) Lightly oak-smoked wild salmon, sourced from open water, is one of the many delicious

including rose-infused and basil & persian lime. We recommend the sea salted dark chocolate.

Rococo, 321 King’s Road, SW3 5EP rococochocolates.com

C Lidgate, 110 Holland Park Avenue, W11 4UA lidgates.com

Dessert

Terrine Partridges Duck Terrine with Orange, Armagnac and Spices, £4.39 For a luxurious treat, serve this terrine with fresh crusty bread.

Partridges of Sloane Square 2-5 Duke of York Square, SW3 4LY Partridges of Kensington 17-19 Gloucester Road, SW7 4PL partridges.co.uk

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Red Velvet Cake, £26.95 This red velvet cake with cream cheese frosting from the Hummingbird Bakery is decadent and delicious.

Hummingbird Bakery 133 Portobello Road, W11 2DY 47 Old Brompton Road, SW7 3JP hummingbirdbakery.com

Whisky n r o n t this 40 year-old blend is beautifully rich, E comes individually numbered. harrods.com

THE KENSINGTON & CHELSEA MAGAZINE

A Puck Above the Rest World-renowned chef Wolfgang Puck tells GEMMA TAYLOR how he has built an empire of the finest steak restaurants using a dash of quality ingredients, a pinch of high standards and dollops of advice from his wife

DRINKING & DINING

MEETING THE CHEERFUL, white-haired Wolfgang Puck is like bumping into a long-lost Austrian cousin, despite the fact he has lived in California for almost his whole life. Even in the grandeur of his hit restaurant, Cut at 45 Park Lane, Puck is humble while clearly proud of all he has achieved. With a twinkle in his eye he brings out a plate of the finest steak that money can buy; huge cross-sections of claret-coloured beef stare back at me with the confidence and quality of American produce. That said, the cows who gave up their lives to whet the palate of London’s great and good come from all over the world.

Enjoying a diet of the richest grasslands, massage and classical music, it is no wonder these cuts have developed the succulent, complex flavours for which they are famous.

Puck explains that he wasn’t born into wealth; he left school at 13 and survived in kitchens using his street smarts. “In my 20s I was crazy as a chef and would throw stuff around. This was caused by insecurity and stress. Now, instead of screaming I teach my staff to do it better and this creates an example for the future. It can be chaos but food is better if there’s no yelling; it certainly doesn’t increase the quality”, he says.

A catalyst for this change in attitude came in the form of an ingenious idea from Puck – the first open kitchen. “Kitchens can be crazy places so when I decided to have a live kitchen in the middle of my

achievements, he has two feet firmly on the floor and is as keen to talk about his family life as he is to discuss work.

“To balance your life is a difficult thing. I have a great restaurant, but when I look back at my life it’s my kids who are my greatest achievement and we all wish that our children do better than their parents,” he says.

In sunny California, where Puck spends most of his days, he enjoys buying fresh produce from farmers’ markets and thinks more emphasis needs to be placed on teaching children to eat healthily. Inspired by his wife and ‘love of his life’ designer Gelila Assef, Puck always runs his ideas past her as he knows he will get an honest answer. “She will say when she doesn’t like something.

My motto is: don’t tell me what is good, tell me what we can do better.”

Puck is charming and fun and while his restaurants have seriously good food, they reflect his playful character, avoiding the pretentious and sombre. He heads back to the kitchen chuckling: “If you spend less than you make, you will do well in business!” Wise words.

“My wife advises me. My motto is; don’t tell me what is good but tell me what we can do better” restaurant, open for all the guests to see, this had to change,” he says. “I remember bringing my young son and thinking that the language and behaviour of my staff must be appropriate for his ears.”

Puck learned cooking from his mother and for him, it has always been about the food as opposed to the celebrity status that can go with it. Last year he declined an offer from popular American reality show Top Chef due to commitments to his first love; restaurants. “I don’t want to be a TV chef. I said no to Top Chef because I was opening a new restaurant at the time and I would need to be true to investors.” Puck is a restaurateur through and through and has huge respect for Heston Blumenthal who runs the famous Fat Duck. The wit and thought gone into Cut at 45 Park Lane has touches of Blumenthal but the ambiance and grandiose setting is all Puck. Floor to ceiling windows, velvet curtains and marble flooring are complemented wonderfully by a 70s soundtrack of Pink Floyd and Fleetwood Mac. Despite Puck’s obvious culinary and economic

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LONDON LIVING

Ready Steady Cook WHAT: Ascot’s Festival of Food and Wine Raceday WHY: James Martin went down a treat with those in attendance at this year’s Ascot Festival of Food and Wine Raceday as the celebrity chef showed off his cooking skills in a live demonstration. In front of awed spectators, the Yorkshireman didn’t break a sweat as he prepared blow-torched mackerel, warm pickled beetroot and chive crème fraîche, followed by a panna cotta with mini doughnuts and fresh raspberries. Martin then proceeded to present the winning connections of the Ladbrokes Mobile Handicap, the day’s feature race, with their prize before heading to the Windsor Forest Restaurant where he had created the menu for the ravenous diners.

Need for Speed WHAT: Salon Privé 2013 WHY: Now in its eighth consecutive year, Salon Privé once again rallied together the most discerning car enthusiasts, collectors, buyers and owners to marvel at envy-inducing automobiles. The annual fashion show for cars – the Chubb Insurance Concours d’Elegance – took place on 3 and 4 September, while the penultimate day saw the ladies in attendance compete for the title of bestdressed. Winner of Boodles Ladies Day, Helena Tepley was “overwhelmed and excited” at the accolade, given to her by judges Amanda Stretton, Rebecca Jackson, Amber Graafland and Fleur Britten, not to mention her prize of a Boodles diamond set Blossom pendant in white gold which was presented to her by the jeweller’s managing director Michael Wainwright. Last but not least, Audemars Piguet Supercar Friday brought the event to a close with a resounding bang, with live music and a lobster luncheon.

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Down the Rabbit Hole WHAT: Lotte Brouwer’s Quarter Century Birthday Ball WHERE: The Boltons, Chelsea WHO: Nick Adasi (founder of Bacanal), Paul Frangie, Greta Bellamacina and Poppy Elizabeth Jamie WHY: A wild assortment of fictional characters from Alice In Wonderland and Neverland descended on the Boltons in Chelsea on 17 August to celebrate at Lotte Brouwer’s Quarter Century Birthday Ball. Feasting on hundreds of hand-made canapés, towers of macaroons and a seventier Victoria sponge-cake, the 150 revelers – each the recipient of a Willy Wonka-esque handmade invitation (including a playing card ticket) – offset the food with enough alcohol to fill the Augean stables.

Happy chaos ensued, to the sound of a jazz ‘n’ swing live-band, as the outside bar turned into a street party. One guest left the house in nothing but his underwear and fox fur before finding himself mugged and arrested for his efforts. A topless waiter was found slumbering in the fort and the party’s videographer fell in the pond, forcing an emergency bath procedure half way through. Best costumes must go to Adrian PascuTulbure as a ‘naughty’ Alice and Alex Pratt Copeland as an incredibly convincing Michael Jackson. Both dashed about in character, adding a farcical element to an already incredibly idiosyncratic bash. The party ended at 6.30am. As all good parties inevitably do.

THE KENSINGTON & CHELSEA MAGAZINE

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Photography: Harpreet Castleton / magentaphotography.com

Diner en Blanc WHAT: Diner en Blanc event 2013 WHERE: Trinity Buoy, Canary Wharf WHY: While the location of the Diner en Blanc event may have remained secret until the very last minute, there was nothing stealthy whatsoever about the 650 guests who turned up to the spectacular riverside location of Trinity Buoy Wharf, all of whom were fully clad in white ensembles. Arriving at 7pm armed with tables, chairs, food and drink, they were just in time to catch the sunset on the river before sitting down for dinner. As darkness descended, the party was lit up by hundreds of sparklers and revelers took to the dance floor to the sound of live music, followed soon after by a DJ. As organiser of London’s Diner en Blanc 2013 Simon Rapkin summed it up, “it was a truly magical night”.

Raise a Glass WHAT: Taylor Morris Launch Party WHO: Poppy Delevingne, James Blunt, Spencer Matthews, Stephanie Pratt, Tom Austin, Rosie Fortescue and Roxanne McKee WHY: Almost the entire cast of Made in Chelsea (well, the most interesting ones anyway) rallied around to support Hugo Taylor for the launch of his new sunglasses brand with close friend Charlie Morris.

Hugo looked dapper as ever in a blue three-piece suit as he posed with long-term girlfriend Natalie Joel who complemented him in a pale pink dress. Held at the exclusive Grace Belgravia on 5 September, best friend Spencer turned up with current girlfriend and reality TV star Stephanie Pratt, suitably decked out in a pair of Taylor Morris specs, but spent most of the evening with ex girlfriend Louise Thompson, spotted goofing around outside. Inside, the likes of James Blunt and Poppy Delevingne sipped on Ciroc Vodka cocktails while admiring the new range of unisex sunglasses which include six frames and 11 colourways. They will be sold exclusively in Harvey Nichols as well as on the Taylor Morris website.

Blonde Moment Eclipse Mixologist Kim with Donna Ida Thornton Katie Chutzpah

Photography: Aidan O’Neil

Vanessa Scott and Steve White-Cooper

Guest and Andrea Kristina Peony Lim

Guest and Vogue’s Harriet Baker

WHAT: Donna Ida Thornton Party WHERE: Eclipse Cocktail Bar on Walton Street WHY: When jean guru Donna Ida Thornton decided to turn her nimble fingers to cocktail-making, she found that many of her Chelsea pals were more than happy to support their friend’s latest fad. The designer has created a range of blends for Eclipse bar (just down the road Donna Ida Thornton and from her eponymous store) and R last month she invited a group of close friends down to sample them.

While we cannot vouch for the taste, we love Ida’s choice of originalsounding names: Cautiously Reckless (named after her A/W13 IDA collection), Secret Garden and, our personal favourite, Blonde Moment.

LONDON LIVING Guests

Rosie Fortescue

Katy Wickremesinghe

Guests Co-founder Nicholas Dellaportas and guest Hugo Taylor and Natalie Joel

Hugo Taylor, Oliver Proudlock and Spencer Matthews

Olivia Inge and guests

Poppy Jamie

Guests

Guests

Co-founder Charlie Morris and Caggie Dunlop

Guest

Guests

Jo Rewick

Jim Chapman and Tanya Burr

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The Concierge What is it you require, sir? How may I help, madam? The Concierge is here to help with every need, whim or wish, however great or small APPAREL

VINTAGE WATCH SELLERS

BEAUTY SALONS & SPAS

Babylon at Kensington Roof Gardens

Watches of Knightsbridge

Vagheggi Boutique Clinic

64 Knightsbridge SW1X 7JF 020 7590 3034 watchesofknightsbridge.com

205 King’s Road, SW3 5ED 020 7352 1113 vagheggi.co.uk

99 Kensington High Street W8 5SA 020 7368 3993 roofgardens.virgin.com

FOR THE HOME

The Chelsea Day Spa

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

REPAIRS & CLEANING

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

Sloane Tailors & Dry Cleaners

FURNITURE, SOFT FURNISHINGS

69 Lower Sloane Street SW1W 8DA 020 7824 8644 sloanetailorsanddrycleaners.co.uk

& APPLICANCES

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

Katharine Pooley

Urban Retreat at Harrods

Chelsea Brasserie

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

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

SHOES REHEELED

Chelsea Green Shoe Repairs

Ligne Roset

31 Elystan Street SW3 3NT 020 7584 0776

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

PRECIOUS PIECES JEWELLERY VALUATION

Nina Campbell

Bourbon Hanby

9 Walton Street, SW3 2JD 020 7225 1011 ninacampbell.com

151 Sydney Street, SW3 6NT 020 7352 2106 bourbonhanby.com JEWELLERY REPAIR

OKA 103 Lancaster Road, W11 1QN 020 7792 1425 okadirect.com

Hawkes and Son 50-52 Walton Street SW3 1RB 020 7589 2523 hawkesandson.com WATCH REPAIR

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

The Watch Gallery 129 Fulham Road, SW3 6RT 020 7581 3239 thewatchgallery.co.uk

Knightsbridge Watches 88 Brompton Road, SW3 1ER 08000 337 333 knightsbridgewatcheslondon.com

Sub-Zero & Wolf 251 Brompton Rd SW3 2EP 0845 250 0010 subzero-wolf.co.uk

PAMPERING & WELLBEING

MEDICAL & DENTAL SERVICES

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

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

Chelsea Bridge Road SW1W 8RH 020 7730 7733 thelisterhospital.com

The Beresford Clinic 2 Lower Grosvenor Place SW1W 0EJ 020 7821 9411 drberesford.co.uk

Cadogan Street Dental Office 305 Brompton Road SW3 2DY 020 7581 5211 harissalon.com

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

Maroush The Lister Hospital

HAIRDRESSERS

Hari’s

Daphne’s 110-112 Draycott Avenue SW3 3AE 020 7589 4257 daphnes-restaurant.co.uk

47 Cadogan Street, SW3 2QJ 020 7581 0811

HAUTE CUISINE DINING

Richard Ward

Bar Boulud

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

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

38 Beauchamp Place, SW3 1NU 020 7581 5434 maroush.com

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

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

Umami 100 Cromwell Road, SW7 4ER 020 7341 2321 umamilondon.co.uk

Zuma 5 Raphael Street, SW7 1DL 020 7584 1010 zumarestaurant.com

CONCIERGE

DELICATESSENS

La Bottega 14 Gloucester Road, SW7 4RB 020 7581 6980 labottega65.com

Luigi’s Delicatessen 349 Fulham Road, SW10 9TW 020 7352 7739 luigismailorder.com

Chelsea Arts Club

Sunseeker

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

36 Davies Street W1K 4NF 020 7355 0980 sunseekerlondon.com

Royal Thames Yacht Club

CHAUFFEURS

60 Knightsbridge, SW1X 7LF 020 7235 2121 royalthames.com

Executive Cars 020 3170 5838 executive-cars-london.com

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

Crown Security Chauffeurs

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

AIR, LAND & SEA

COURIERS

0845 901 1471 crown-chauffeurs.co.uk

BUSINESS AFFAIRS

HELICOPTER CHARTER

L’Artisan Du Chocolat 89 Lower Sloane Street SW1W 8DA 0845 270 6996 artisanduchocolat.com

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

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

Boujis

LUXURY CAR SERVICES

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

Belgravia Garage

298 King’s Road, SW3 5UG 020 7352 6500 thecadoganarmschelsea.com

Juju 316-318 King’s Road, SW3 5UH 020 7351 5998 jujulondon.com

M.A. Dog Training and Services 07547 716076 madogtraining@gmail.com madogtrainingandservices.co.uk

Mungo & Maud 79 Elizabeth Street, SW1W 9PJ 020 7022 1207 mungoandmaud.com

Selena Courier Service

LITTLE LUXURIES

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

PREMIUM COFFEE & CIGARS

Tomtom Cigars and Coffee

TRANSLATORS

63 Elizabeth Street, SW1W 9PP 020 7730 1790 tomtom.co.uk

Aplomb Translations

FINE WINE

London Battersea Heliport Bridges Wharf, Battersea SW11 3BE 0844 884 8660 batterseahelicopter.com

The Cadogan Arms

St. Anne’s Housekeeping 19 Bolsover Street, W1W 5NA 020 3397 7495 stanneshousekeeping.com PETS

The Sloane Club Partridges

HOUSEKEEPING

74 Chancery Lane WC2A 1AD 020 7831 9444 aplombonline.com

Handford Fine Wines 105 Old Brompton Road, SW7 3LE 020 7589 6113 handford.net

Computer and Technology Help 1 Eaton Mews West Belgravia, SW1W 9ET 020 7235 9900 belgraviagarage.com

VIP Car Hire Queen Elizabeth Street SE1 2JE 0870 200 4949 vipservices.co.uk

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

LIFESTYLE SERVICES

Gilding the Lily Old Brompton Road, SW7 2NB 020 7584 1950 gildingthelilysw7.co.uk

LONDON LIFESTYLE SERVICE

Only Roses White Circle Collection 71 Walton Street, SW3 2HT 020 7989 9890 whitecirclecollection.com

YACHT CHARTER/ SALE

257 Old Brompton Road, SW5 9HP 020 7373 9595 only-roses.com LEATHER GOODS

CHILDCARE

MEMBERS CLUBS

FLOWERS

& ACCESSORIES

Princess Yachts Beaufort House 354 Kings Road, SW3 5UZ 020 7352 2828 beauforthousechelsea.co.uk

THE KENSINGTON & CHELSEA MAGAZINE

64 Grosvenor Street W1K 3JH 020 7499 5050 princess.co.uk

Regency Nannies & Nurses

Pickett

50 Hans Crescent, SW1X 0NA 020 7225 1055 regencynannies.com

149 Sloane Street, SW1X 9BZ 020 7823 5638 pickett.co.uk

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578 KINGS ROAD LONDON SW6 2DY WWW.GUINEVERE.CO.UK

+44 (0)20 7736 2917

KENSINGTON

& CHELSEA P R O P E RT Y

SHOWCASING THE

finest HOMES & PROPERTY FROM THE BEST ESTATE AGENTS

Expert Comment

Industry leaders offer their insights into the local luxury property market

Image courtesy of Harrods Estates

Featured Estate Agents 1stasset.co.uk

mcdowellproperties.co.uk

KENSINGTON GATE 22 Gloucester Road SW7 4RB 020 7581 1152

CHELSEA 7-9 Tryon Street SW3 3LG 020 7014 3800

SOUTH KENSINGTON 42 Egerton Gardens SW3 2BZ 020 3551 2545

NOTTING HILL 299 Westbourne Grove W11 2QA 020 7727 7777

PADDINGTON 4c Praed Street W2 1JX 020 7717 5313 PIMLICO & WESTMINSTER 50 Belgrave Road SW1V 1RQ 020 7717 5315

hogarthestates.co.uk

crayson.com

aplacelikehome.co.uk

NOTTING HILL 10 Lambton Place W11 2SH 020 7221 1117

020 7228 4668 web@aplacelikehome.co.uk

SOUTH KENSINGTON 25-27 Harrington Road SW7 3EU 020 7581 8888

SLOANE SQUARE 7 Lower Sloane Street SW1W 8AH 020 7717 5317

SALES, LETTINGS & MANAGEMENT

fwgapp.co.uk harrodsestates.com HOLLAND PARK Kensington Heights 91-95 Campden Hill Road W8 7BA 020 7243 0964

EARLS COURT 16b Hogarth Place SW5 0QT 020 7373 5222

jowebster.com CHELSEA Worlds End Studios 132-134 Lots Road SW10 0RJ 020 7349 7055

KNIGHTSBRIDGE 82 Brompton Road SW3 1ER 020 7225 6506

aylesford.com

domusnova.com

CHELSEA 440 King’s Rd, SW10 0LH 020 7351 2383

NOTTING HILL 17 Kensington Park Road W11 2EU 020 7727 1717

hamptons.co.uk

henryandjames.co.uk

BAYSWATER 78 Westbourne Grove W2 5RT 020 7221 7817

CHELSEA 134 Fulham Road SW10 9PY 020 7717 5291

BELGRAVIA 1 Motcomb Street SW1X 8JX 020 7235 8861

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT 37 Alexander Street W2 5NU 020 7727 1717

HAMPTONS COUNTRY HOUSE

CHELSEA 2 Cale Street SW3 3QU 020 7581 5011

joneslanglasalle.co.uk

hlrlets.com

kayeandcarey.co.uk

CHELSEA 117 Sydney Street SW3 6NR 020 7351 7822

KNIGHTSBRIDGE 4 Yeoman’s Row Brompton Road SW3 2AH 020 7590 0066

john-taylor.com

beauchamp.co.uk MAYFAIR 24 Curzon Street W1J 7TF 020 7499 7722

douglasandgordon.com century21uk.com NOTTING HILL 10 Clarendon Road W11 3AA 020 7229 1414

CHELSEA 45 Sloane Avenue SW3 3DH 020 7225 1225 KENSINGTON 172 Kensington Church Street W8 4BN 020 7792 1881

8 Chertsey Street, Surrey GU1 4HD 01483 339740 KENSINGTON 8 Hornton Street W8 4NW 020 7937 9371 KNIGHTSBRIDGE 168 Brompton Road SW3 1HW 020 7584 2044 NOTTING HILL 301 Westbourne Grove W11 2QA 020 7717 5311

MAYFAIR 48 Berkeley Square W1J 5AX 020 3284 1888

WEST END 30 Warwick Street W1B 5NH 020 7201 6699

pattersonbowe.co.uk malverns.co.uk knightfrank.co.uk BELGRAVIA 82-83 Chester Square SW1W 9JH 020 7881 7722 CHELSEA 352a King’s Road SW3 5UU 020 7349 4300 FULHAM 203 New King’s Road SW6 4SR 020 7751 2400 KENSINGTON 54-56 Kensington Church Street W8 4DB 020 7938 4311 KNIGHTSBRIDGE 60 Sloane Avenue SW3 3DD 020 7591 8600 NOTTING HILL 298 Westbourne Grove W11 2PS 020 7229 0229 SOUTH KENSINGTON 157 Gloucester Road SW7 4TH 020 7871 4111

sothebysrealty.co.uk CHELSEA 62-64 Fulham Road SW3 6HH 020 7808 8540 MAYFAIR 26a Conduit Street, W1S 2XY 020 7495 9580

SOUTH KENSINGTON Malvern Court Onslow Square SW7 3HU 020 7589 8122

winkworth.co.uk KNIGHTSBRIDGE 49 Beauchamp Place SW3 1NY 020 7581 3253

struttandparker.com CHELSEA 43 Cadogan Street SW3 2PR 020 7225 3866

penyards.com maskells.co.uk CHELSEA 71 Walton Street SW3 2HT 020 7581 2216

LONDON OFFICE Cashel House 15 Thayer Street W1U 3JX 020 7467 5330

marshandparsons.co.uk savills.co.uk CHELSEA Rawlings House 2a Milner Street, SW3 2PU 020 7591 5570 EARLS COURT 246 Old Brompton Road SW5 ODE 020 7835 0620 HOLLAND PARK 57 Norland Square W11 4QJ 020 7605 6890 KENSINGTON 9 Kensington Church Street W8 4LF 020 7368 4450 NORTH KENSINGTON 136 Lancaster Road W11 1QU 020 7313 8350 SOUTH KENSINGTON 29 Harrington Road SW7 3HD 020 7590 0800

CHELSEA 196-200 Fulham Road SW10 9PN 020 7578 9000 KENSINGTON 145 Kensington Church Street W8 7LP 020 7535 3300 KNIGHTSBRIDGE 188 Brompton Road SW3 1HQ 020 7581 5234 NOTTING HILL 168 Westbourne Grove W11 2RW 020 7727 5750 SLOANE STREET 139 Sloane Street SW1X 9AY 020 7730 0822

WEST CHELSEA 140 Fulham Road SW10 9PY 020 7373 1010 KENSINGTON 103 Kensington Church Street W8 7LN 020 7938 3666 KNIGHTSBRIDGE 66 Sloane Street SW1X 9SH 020 7235 9959 NOTTING HILL 303 Westbourne Grove W11 2QA 020 7221 1111

KENSINGTON 118 Kensington Church Street, W8 4BH 020 7727 1500 KNIGHTSBRIDGE & CHELSEA 289 Brompton Road SW3 2DY 020 7589 6616 NOTTING HILL 178 Westbourne Grove W11 2RH 020 7727 3227 SOUTH KENSINGTON 123a Gloucester Road SW7 4TE 020 7373 5052

PROPERTY FINDER

PropertyPS.co.uk CENTRAL & GREATER LONDON 020 7351 6914

tatesestates.co.uk WEST KENSINGTON 135 Hammersmith Road W14 0QL 020 7602 6022

waellis.co.uk KNIGHTSBRIDGE 174 Brompton Road SW3 1HP 020 7306 1610

NOTTING HILL 2-6 Kensington Park Road W11 3BU 020 7313 2890

THE KENSINGTON & CHELSEA MAGAZINE

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Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk

Courtfield Road, SW7 A lovely three double bedroom split level apartment with excellent entertaining space.

A key benefit to this spacious property is the direct access to beautiful communal gardens from the main ground floor reception room. This property also has a charming master bedroom with an en-suite bathroom and dressing room on the lower ground floor with direct access to the patio garden. EPC: E

£2,450,000 Leasehold • • • • • •

Hamptons Chelsea Office Sales. 0207 835 1444 | Lettings. 020 7717 5433

Split level Three bedrooms Two bathrooms One reception room Communal garden Good decoration

Aubrey Walk, W8 A beautifully refurbished four bedroom period townhouse (3,060 sq ft approx.) situated in a prime Kensington street ready for immediate occupation. This unique property offers flexible living accommodation which has been finished to the most exacting of standards with modern technology, high quality fixtures and fittings and off street parking. EPC: C

£6,490,000 Freehold

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Hamptons Kensington Office Sales. 020 7937 9371 | Lettings. 020 7717 5459

Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk

Lincoln House, SW3 An immaculately presented top floor apartment offering superb natural light, in the heart of Knightsbridge. The property is situated on the fifth floor (with a lift) of a well maintained Victorian mansion building. The flat has a large reception room with wood flooring, a modern kitchen, two bedrooms, an en suite bathroom and a further shower room. EPC: F

£2,750,000 Share of Freehold • • • • • •

Hamptons Knightsbridge Office Sales. 020 7717 5461 | Lettings. 020 7717 5463

Entrance hall Reception room Kitchen Two bedrooms En Suite bathroom Shower room

Portobello Road, W11

£2,495,000 Leasehold

Beautifully presented throughout this three bedroom maisonette is located on the world famous Portobello road. The interior is newly refurbished and finished to exacting standards offering a contemporary living space with high-quality fixtures and fittings.

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EPC: D

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Hamptons Notting Hill Office Sales. 0207 034 0404 | Lettings. 020 7717 5341

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www.hamptons.co.uk

Eaton Mansions, SW1W A substantial four bedroom lateral apartment with high ceilings, situated on the second floor (lift) of this imposing Victorian building. The property offers a wealth of period features with flexible accommodation and generous reception space. As well as a resident porter, the building benefits from a pretty secluded communal garden. Eaton Mansions is located on Cliveden Place, perfectly positioned between Sloane Square and Eaton Square. EPC: E

Hamptons Sloane Square Office Sales. 020 7717 5481 | Lettings. 0207 717 5483

£6,450,000 Leasehold •

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Sumner Place, SW7 A recently refurbished three double bedroom, two bathroom apartment with dark wood floors, contemporary furnishings and eat in kitchen. The apartment is located conveniently in South Kensington and being just off Old Brompton Road benefits from all of the shopping amenities. The apartment would ideally suit a professional couple looking for home in SW7. EPC: D

£1,295 per week Furnished • •

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Hamptons Chelsea Office Lettings. 020 7717 5433 | Sales. 0207 835 1444

•

www.hamptons.co.uk

Cornwall Gardens, SW7 A unique first floor three bedroom apartment finished to the highest standard on this sought after garden square, with access to two private balconies and stunning communal gardens. There is a beautiful reception room with space for dining, wood floors, high ceilings and large windows. 1,573 sq ft 146.1 sq m. EPC: D

£2,300 per week Part Furnished •

Lift

•

• • •

Hamptons Kensington Office Lettings. 020 7717 5459 | Sales. 020 7937 9371

•

Terrace

Lincoln House, SW3 This stunning lateral apartment has been meticulously maintained and is finished to exacting standards. Further benefits include a well proportioned double reception with decorative fireplace, high ceilings, dedicated bar room with ice maker and one of the most considerate porter teams in the Central London. EPC: D

£2,950 per week Furnished or Unfurnished •

•

• •

Hamptons Knightsbridge Office Lettings. 020 7717 5463 | Sales. 020 7717 5461

•

PROPERTY

Development Focus ANNABEL HARRISON reports on the launch of an exciting new Prime Central London residence opposite The Royal Mews

THE LAUNCH OF an exclusive penthouse has been announced by the Alchemi Group together with Jones Lang LaSalle. It is located metres from the gates of Buckingham Palace, and directly opposite the Royal Mews in Central London, and is part of a larger 14 unit scheme which the Alchemi Group started developing in 2009. It is the last apartment available, on sale for £3,250,000, and Jonathan Whittle, Head of Sales at the Alchemi Group, comments: “This is a very special development; the last in the area to boast views over the Palace gardens and Royal Mews. It is immaculately finished and carefully designed to give you the best of apartment living in this historically rich area of London.”

Comprising three bedrooms, three bathrooms and three roof terraces (one of which commands amazing views over the Royal Mews on Buckingham Palace Road) the penthouse apartment totals 1,750 square feet in size and it has been developed to the highest specification. Features include comfort cooling, a kitchen designed by Meson’s of Italy with appliances by Siemens, fitted wardrobes in all bedrooms (both the master and second bedroom have walk-in wardrobes) and bathrooms fitted with top of the range brands such as Dornbracht, Matki, Hansgrohe & Duravit.

Richard Osborne-Young at Jones Lang LaSalle added: “The Prime Central London market remains very active with interest from all over the world. The shortage of supply, particularly of newly developed properties ready to move into, has resulted in competition for the best apartments.’’

For further information please contact: Richard Osborne-Young, Jones Lang LaSalle, 020 7201 6699 Jonathan Whittle, The Alchemi Group, 020 7499 3881

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THE KENSINGTON & CHELSEA MAGAZINE

PROPERTY

Market Insight Prime London homes are set for six per cent growth in 2013. GRAINNE GILMORE, Head of UK Residential Research at Knight Frank, examines the figures SO FAR IN 2013, luxury house prices across the capital have risen by 4.8 per cent and are 7 per cent higher than they were in August last year.

Since the market trough in March 2009, property prices in London’s very best postcodes have risen in value by more than 60 per cent. In August this year, prices for London’s very best homes increased by 0.6 per cent month-onmonth, representing the 34th straight month of price growth for homes in prime central London.

Rising demand has translated into higher sales volumes across the market, with transactions up by 41 per cent so far this year compared to the same period last year. Over the same time period, however, it is interesting to note that price rises in Kensington and Chelsea have been slightly more muted than the prime central London average at 4.5 per cent and 2.8 per cent respectively. Buyer sentiment in Kensington and Chelsea remains positive, yet local agents report lower stock levels now when compared to the same time last year. Homes priced between £1 million and £2 million are attracting particular interest from both buyers and investors.

As a result of the ongoing strength of the prime central London market, in July we reassessed our forecast for price growth in 2013. Last year, we forecast that prices would remain unchanged in 2013, based on the view that the increase in Stamp Duty, introduced in the March 2012 Budget, would have an impact on the top end of the market and there would be resistance to price growth from both domestic and international purchasers. However, the negative impact of the 5 to 7 per cent Stamp Duty rise for £2 million plus properties has not been as significant as we first thought. Additionally, the further weakening in sterling in the first half of the year helped to boost overseas interest and domestic demand has been aided by London’s economic recovery and, arguably, Government policy, such as the Help to Buy scheme introduced following this year’s Budget.

We have therefore raised our forecast for prime central London price growth for 2013 to 6 per cent.

In contrast to the sales market, London’s prime rental market has been feeling the brunt of Europe’s economic troubles and the associated shrinking of the capital’s financial sector workforce. So far this year, prime rents in the capital have fallen 1 per cent and are 2.5 per cent lower on an annual basis.

In spite of the ongoing declines in rents, activity levels in London’s luxury rental market suggest that demand for rental property remains high.

The number of viewings conducted in prime central London so far this year is up by 11.9 per cent compared to the same period in 2012. Additionally, the number of new applicants is up so far this year, by 9 per cent.

We are seeing regional differences in terms of rental performance across London. Rents in Kensington for example have defied the wider market trend and have risen so far this year, up by 0.9 per cent. In Chelsea, rents have fallen by 0.4 per cent over the same period. knightfrankblog.com/global-briefing

THE KENSINGTON & CHELSEA MAGAZINE

Prime Central London Forecasts Actual and forecast growth for Prime Central London property 2008-2013 Source: Knight Frank Residential Research

15% 12.1 10.3

10%

8.0 6.1

6.0

5% 0%

-16.9

-5% -10% -15% -20%

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

Monthly Price Change Prime Central London average residential price change Source: Knight Frank Residential Research

1.0%

0.8%

0.6%

0.4%

0.2%

0.0%

J

A

S O 2012

N

D

J

F

M

A M 2013

J

J

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KnightFrank.co.uk

Wellington Square, Chelsea SW3 Grade II listed house in garden square

A bright and impressive Grade II listed house located in the southern end of the western terrace of this highly sought after white stucco garden square in the heart of Chelsea. Master bedroom suite, three further bedrooms, two further bath/shower rooms, reception room/bedroom 5, kitchen/breakfast room, entrance/dining hall, double reception room/study, cloakroom, utility room, rear garden. Approximately 255 sq m (2,745 sq ft) Freehold Asking price: ÂŁ6,250,000 (SLA120395)

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

KnightFrank.co.uk

Elgin Crescent, Notting Hill W11 Communal garden house

Wonderful opportunity to buy a larger than average six bedroom Elgin Crescent house with a lovely garden and direct access to magical communal gardens behind. 6 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, double reception room, kitchen/family room, 2 guest cloakrooms, garden.

EPC rating D. Approximately 310.9 sq m (3,347 sq ft) Freehold Guide price: ÂŁ8,000,000 (NGH130123)

KnightFrank.co.uk/nottinghill nottinghill@knightfrank.com 020 8166 5499

KnightFrank.co.uk

Albert Court, Knightsbridge SW7

Elegant interior designed three bedroom apartment A newly refurbished 3 bedroom apartment on the raised ground floor of this sought after mansion block. Master bedroom with en suite, 2 further bedrooms, shower room, entrance hall reception room, eat in kitchen, lighting system, preparation for AV system, silk carpets, antique chandeliers, 24 hour concierge. EPC rating D. Approximately 130 sq m (1,401 sq ft) Share of freehold Asking price: ÂŁ2,750,000 (SLA130249)

KnightFrank.co.uk/knightsbridge knightsbridge@knightfrank.com 020 3641 5913 Joint Agent: Croft International 020 7937 9070

KnightFrank.co.uk

Horbury Crescent, Notting Hill W11 Perfectly located family house

his de epti ely large house is a real gem o er floors and has the most magi al and wide garden to the rear t also omes with a right to apply to use the adbro e uare ommunal gardens. 6 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 4 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, vault storage, garden utility room guest loa rooms rating Appro imately 3 s m 3 s ft Freehold Guide price: ÂŁ8,000,000 (NGH130122

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

KnightFrank.co.uk

Paultons Square, Chelsea SW3 Stunning key house on garden square

This stunning house has a contemporary interior and a good sized private garden. Master bedroom with en suite bathroom, 3 further bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 reception rooms, drawing room, kitchen, dining room, study area, cloakroom, lift, vaults, balcony, patio, garden, communal garden. EPC rating D. Approximately 258 sq m (2,779 sq ft) including vaults Freehold

(CHL130041)

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

KnightFrank.co.uk

Burnsall Street, Chelsea SW3 Newly refurbished period Chelsea house

A prominent and wide double fronted house situated on an attractive one way street off the Kings Road in Chelsea. The house has undergone complete refurbishment. Master bedroom suite, 2 further bedroom suites, open plan kitchen/dining room, reception room, cloakroom.

EPC rating E. Approximately 167 sq m (1,806 sq ft) Freehold Asking price: ÂŁ3,500,000 (SLA130032)

KnightFrank.co.uk/knightsbridge knightsbridge@knightfrank.com 020 3641 5913 Joint Agent: Strutt & Parker 020 7225 3866

KnightFrank.co.uk

Chepstow Crescent, Notting Hill W11 Family home with garden

A spa ious and wide house spread o er e floors with a ft appro imately garden providing an incoming purchaser an opportunity to create their ideal home. 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 3 reception rooms, kitchen/dining room, vault storage, garden. EPC rating E. Appro imately s m 3 s ft Freehold uide pri e

KnightFrank.co.uk/nottinghill nottinghill nightfran om 020 8166 5449

KnightFrank.co.uk

Eldon Road, Kensington W8

A six bedroom family house in prime Kensington A fantastic six bedroom family house located within one of Kensington’s most desirable areas.

The house is 24 ft wide, retains many period features. 6 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, double re eption room eat in it hen family dining room th bedroom room of e utility room large private garden, parking. EPC rating D. Approximately 356 sq m (3,840 sq ft) Freehold

(KEN130098)

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

KnightFrank.co.uk

Hesper Mews, Earls Court SW5

A spacious and stunning mews house with roof terrace A stunning, spacious and light mews house tucked away on the quiet, popular Hesper ews he house bene ts from well thought out beautifully proportioned rooms and a lovely roof terrace. 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, reception room, kitchen, dining room, 2 guest cloak rooms, terrace, garage. EPC rating E. Approximately 246 sq m (2,649 sq ft) Share of freehold Guide price: ÂŁ3,950,000 (KEN060065)

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

KnightFrank.co.uk

Collingham Place, Earl’s Court SW5 irst floor flat with pri ate bal ony

his newly refurbished flat bene ts from wooden floors throughout high eilings and modern applian es in luding utron lighting and e ellent storage aster bedroom se ond bedroom bathroom re eption room it hen bal ony rating Appro imately s m s ft

night ran o u south ensington south enlettings nightfran om 020 3641 6025

A ailable furnished uide pri e

per wee

(All potential tenants should be advised that, as well as rent, administration fees will apply when renting a property. Please ask for details of our charges.)

KnightFrank.co.uk

Egerton Gardens, Knightsbridge SW3 Immaculate refurbished duplex

A spa ious flat with dire t a ess onto lo ely ommunal gardens double bedrooms bathrooms en suite re eption room with dire t a ess to ommunal gardens and it hen rating Appro imately s m 3 s ft A ailable furnished uide pri e

night ran o u nightsbridge nightsbridgelettings nightfran 020 7591 8601

per wee

(All potential tenants should be advised that, as well as rent, administration fees will apply when renting a property. Please ask for details of our charges.)

om

KnightFrank.co.uk

Denbigh Terrace, Notting Hill W11 Unique family house just off Portobello Road

A contemporary three bedroom family house in a terrace of period houses. Accommodation comprises master bedroom with en suite bathroom, two further bedrooms, further bathroom, dressing room, reception room, study/ sitting room, eat-in kitchen, cloakroom and garden.

This property is available furnished or unfurnished. Approximately 162 sq m (1,746 sq ft)

KnightFrank.co.uk/nottinghill nottinghilllettings@knightfrank.com 0207 985 9990

Available furnished or unfurnished Guide price: ÂŁ2,250 per week (NHQ161237)

(All potential tenants should be advised that, as well as rent, administration fees will apply when renting a property. Please ask for details of our charges.)

S           More than half of Prime Central London properties are sold and let to buyers and tenants outside the UK. More than you’re looking for.

savills.co.uk

SA69985 Kensington and Chelsea 4pp Spread.indd 1

29/08/2013 14:58

SA6

ES HOUS

Here is a selection of some of the houses we have sold this year...

sold

14:58

Sold

Sold

Wilton Row, SW1 Guide £11.25 million

Eaton Square, SW1 Guide £7.8 million

Sold

Sold

Sold

Oakley Street, SW3 Guide £11.25 million

Lots Road, SW10 Guide £1.25 million

Hayden’s Place, W11 Guide £6 million

Sold

Sold

Pembridge Villas, W11 Guide £8.5 million

Kensington Place, W8 Guide £2.995 million

SA69985 Kensington and Chelsea 4pp Spread.indd 2

29/08/2013 14:58

l

s

and some of the flats we have sold this year... sold

Sold

Sold

Petersham House, SW7 Guide £4.95 million

Airlie Gardens, W8 Asking £3.85 million

Sold

Sold

Egerton Gardens, SW3 Guide £3.4 million

Westbourne Grove, W11 Guide £2.95 million

Sold

Sold

Onslow Gardens, SW7 Guide £2.65 million

Wycombe Square, W8 Guide £2.15 million

SA69985 Kensington and Chelsea 4pp Spread.indd 3

29/08/2013 14:58

SA6

l

s

...and finally some of the properties we have let. l

Let

Let

One Hyde Park, SW1 Guide £25,000 per week

Swan Walk, SW3 Guide £8,500 per week

Let

Let

Elvaston Mews, SW7 Guide £2,300 per week

Chelsea Crescent, SW10 Guide £2,250 per week

Let

Let

Egerton Gardens, SW3 Guide £1,995 per week

Walton Street, SW3 Guide £1,950 per week

With 27 offices across London and over 500 offices and associates globally, we can bring the international market to your door.

To discuss your property requirements further, call our team on 020 7877 4640. savills.co.uk

14:58

SA69985 Kensington and Chelsea 4pp Spread.indd 4

29/08/2013 14:58

savills.co.uk

1 STRIKING STUDIO HOUSE WITH ENCHANTING COURTYARD GARDEN hillsleigh road, w8 Double height drawing room ø study area ø open plan kitchen/dining area ø master bedroom suite ø 2 further bedroom suites ø guest cloakroom ø utility room ø south-west facing landscaped garden ø 217 sq m (2,338 sq ft) ø EPC=E

Asking £5.35 million Freehold

Savills Kensington Johnny Fuller jlfuller@savills.com

020 7535 3300

savills.co.uk

1 STUNNING AND BRIGHT LOW BUILT CORNER TOWNHOUSE WITH PARKING campden street, w8 Open plan living area with kitchen ø cinema ø study area ø master bedroom suite ø 3 further bedroom suites ø gym with steam room ø patio garden ø integral garage ø 371 sq m (3,988 sq ft) ø EPC=C

Asking £7.95 million Freehold

Savills Kensington Johnny Fuller jlfuller@savills.com

020 7535 3300

savills.co.uk

1 LUXURY APARTMENT WITH TERRACE SET IN A STRIKING RED BRICK BUILDING newton road, w2 Open plan reception room/kitchen ø 2 bedroom suites ø guest cloakroom ø lift ø terrace ø 119 sq m (1,284 sq ft) ø EPC=C

Savills Notting Hill Ben Davies bdavies@savills.com

020 7727 5750 Guide £1.85 million Leasehold, approximately 198 years remaining

savills.co.uk

1 WONDERFUL NATURAL LIGHT WITH STUNNING WEST-FACING GARDEN marloes road, w8 Entrance hall ø reception room ø kitchen/dining room ø master bedroom suite ø 2 further bedrooms ø shower room ø guest cloakroom ø west-facing garden ø 151 sq m (1,627 sq ft) ø EPC=D

Guide £2.45 million Leasehold, plus Share of Freehold

Savills Kensington Stephen Holmes sholmes@savills.com

020 7535 3300

savills.co.uk

1 THREE BEDROOM HOUSE WITH PATIO AND TERRACE chepstow villas, w11 Reception room ø dining room ø kitchen ø 3 bedrooms ø family bathroom ø guest cloakroom ø terrace ø patio ø 91 sq m (980 sq ft) ø EPC=E

Savills Notting Hill Ben Davies bdavies@savills.com

020 7727 5750 Guide £1.75 million Freehold

savills.co.uk

1 STUNNING HOUSE IN THIS WONDERFULLY CONVENIENT LOCATION princedale road, w11 Drawing room ø TV/sitting room ø kitchen/breakfast room with dining area ø master bedroom with dressing room ø 3 further bedrooms ø family bathroom ø shower room ø 2 guest cloakrooms ø 2 storage vaults ø garden ø 227 sq m (2,442 sq ft) ø EPC=E Guide £4.35 million Freehold

Savills Notting Hill Ben Davies bdavies@savills.com

020 7727 5750

savills.co.uk

1 STYLISH PENTHOUSE WITH OUTSTANDING VIEWS OF KENSINGTON GARDENS albert hall mansions, sw7 Drawing room ø media room ø dining room ø study ø kitchen/breakfast room ø master bedroom suite ø 4 further bedrooms ø 3 further bath/shower rooms ø guest cloakroom ø 390 sq m (4,193 sq ft) ø EPC=D

Strutt & Parker

Savills Knightsbridge

Charlie Willis charlie.willis@struttandparker.com

Alex Christian achristian@savills.com

020 7235 9959

020 7581 5234

Price on application Leasehold, approximately 993 years remaining plus Share of Freehold

savills.co.uk

1 AN EXTREMELY WELL PROPORTIONED 3 BEDROOM FLAT onslow gardens, sw7 Reception room ø dining room ø kitchen/breakfast room ø master bedroom suite ø 2 further bedrooms ø further bathroom ø terrace (not demised but sole access to) ø access to communal gardens ø 156 sq m (1,678 sq ft) ø EPC=D

Guide £3.25 million Leasehold, approximately 988 years remaining

Savills Chelsea Henry Reid hreid@savills.com

020 7578 9000

1 2

savills.co.uk

COURTFIELD GDNS, sw5

PLANE TREE HOUSE, w8

Reception room ø kitchen ø master bedroom suite ø 2nd bedroom ø shower room ø lift ø access to communal gardens ø 71 sq m (764 sq ft) ø EPC=F

Reception room ø kitchen ø 2 bedrooms ø 2 bath/shower rooms ø balcony ø porter ø designated covered parking space ø 97 sq m (1,048 sq ft) ø EPC=D

Guide £1.3 million Leasehold

Guide £2.3 million Share of Freehold

3 4

Savills Chelsea nridley@savills.com 020 7578 9000

Savills Kensington tholcroft@savills.com 020 7535 3300

REDCLIFFE GDNS, sw10

OVINGTON SQUARE, sw3

Reception room ø kitchen/breakfast room ø master bedroom suite ø 2nd bedroom ø bathroom ø 93 sq m (1,003 sq ft) ø EPC=E

Entrance hall ø drawing room ø kitchen ø 2 bedrooms ø bathroom ø guest cloakroom ø balcony ø 77 sq m (830 sq ft) ø EPC=D

Guide £1.375 million Share of Freehold

Guide £1.85 million Share of Freehold

Savills Chelsea hreid@savills.com 020 7578 9000

Savills Knightsbridge krumbellow@savills.com 020 7581 5234

1 2

savills.co.uk

TRAFALGAR GDNS, w8

SLOANE COURT EAST, sw3

Reception/dining room ø kitchen/breakfast room ø 3 bedrooms (2 en suite) ø further bathroom ø south-facing terrace ø parking ø lift ø 121 sq m (1,300 sq ft) ø EPC=C

2 reception rooms ø kitchen ø master bedrooms suite ø 2nd bedroom ø shower room ø lift ø access to communal gardens ø 137 sq m (1,477 sq ft) ø EPC=D

Asking £2.95 million Share of Freehold

Guide £2.95 million Leasehold

3 4

Savills Kensington sholmes@savills.com 020 7535 3300

Savills Knightsbridge twilson@savills.com 020 7730 0822

ST STEPHENS GDNS, w2

AVENUE STUDIOS, sw3

Open plan reception room/kitchen ø master bedroom suite ø dressing room/study ø further bedroom ø bathroom ø roof terrace ø 126 sq m (1,357 sq ft) ø EPC=D

2 double height studio rooms ø 2 gallery bedrooms ø 2 shower rooms ø designed

by Studio Reed ø off-street parking ø 161 sq m (1,735 sq ft) ø EPC=E

Guide £1.8 million Share of Freehold

Guide £3.45 million

Savills Notting Hill bdavies@savills.com 020 7727 5750

Savills Sloane Street cholbrook@savills.com 020 7730 0822

savills.co.uk

1 AN ABSOLUTELY CHARMING FREEHOLD HOUSE REQUIRING MODERNISATION chelsea park gardens, sw3 Entrance hall ø 2 reception rooms ø kitchen ø 5 bedrooms ø 2 bathrooms ø 2 guest cloakrooms ø garden ø outside store ø 180 sq m (1,942 sq ft) ø EPC=F

Savills Chelsea Charlie Bubear cbubear@savills.com

020 7578 9000 Guide £4 million Freehold

savills.co.uk

1

A NEWLY REFURBISHED THREE BEDROOM MAISONETTE fulham road, sw3 Master bedroom suite ø 2 further bedrooms ø further bathroom ø reception room ø separate kitchen ø guest cloakroom ø admin charges apply ø Council Tax=G ø EPC=D £1,495 per week Flexible furnishings

Savills Chelsea

2

Oliver Mellotte omellotte@savills.com

020 7578 9020

BEAUTIFULLY REFURBISHED THREE BEDROOM HOUSE sprimont place, sw3 3 bedrooms ø 2 bathrooms ø reception room ø separate kitchen ø guest cloakroom ø patio ø admin charges apply ø Council Tax=H ø EPC=E £1,695 per week Unfurnished

Savills Chelsea Izzy Birch-Reynardson ibreynardson@savills

020 7578 9020

Leading By Example ANNABEL HARRISON meets Andrew Scott, head of London Residential at Strutt & Parker, to discuss the state of the market, the general public’s view of the industry and pension versus property

THIS WAS ONE OF the most interesting and entertaining interviews I have conducted recently because of the fact that “Andrew, 52, Strutt & Parker”, as he declared into my Dictaphone, has a great personality.

His LinkedIn profile declares an interest in “flying and boats, motorbikes, stupid cars and walks along the coast in winter” and his specialities are “property, strategy, motivation, marketing, and making it all fun and rewarding!” His enthusiasm for his work is infectious, and his passion for the business evident, and I thoroughly enjoy hearing his take on the industry.

and got a job in Wimbledon, working six and a half days a week. Then I moved to Allsop for four years, which was really valuable to me. I was quite happy as one of those semi-laddy types moseying on through his mid-20s, when the phone rang and it was a company called Lane Fox, who said: “We think it would be a jolly good idea to set up London Residential”.

So at the age of 26 I launched London Residential, with a young negotiator who was 23, Lulu Egerton, and a secretary called Phillipa. But there were zero clients and that drove us to build a business which, less than two decades later, was one of the top five businesses in central London.

We had seven offices throughout the capital and were punching way above our weight, when Strutt & Parker, who were very strong outside London, approached us.

The merger happened on 1 August 2007 and it’s really helped us move forward; yet again, the spirit of that start-up business is still there in the business, which is magic and it does make a difference.

How did your career path in property bring you to Strutt & Parker?

It started on a card table in a flat in Egerton Gardens, where I had been sacked from a job and I didn’t know what I wanted to do, so I literally went through the Yellow Pages. I got to ‘E’ for Estate Agents, went for two interviews

How has Strutt & Parker’s residential division grown under your tenure?

When the merger happened Strutt & Parker had one branch office in London and now we have ten. We’ve transformed the business; we now have a private search business, we’re one of the top three residential development

PROPERTY

specialists and we’ve acquired some of the biggest projects in the city, such as 55 Victoria Street.

What differentiates Strutt & Parker?

It’s really simple. I went to some team meetings this morning; the first was at 7.30am, the second was at 8.30am, so all my teams were behind the wheel from 7.30 this morning. When we started up, we wanted to be genuinely proud of our business and we wanted to change peoples’ attitudes about it.

I came from an even worse profession – selling life insurance – so nothing could get much worse!

We’ve got some of the most amazing public clients, who are known to be very discerning, critical characters, and who use us; it’s really good when a famous TV personality calls you in after the job is done, points his finger at you and says, ‘I’m very pleased I hired you and I’m very upset that I hired you’, pointing at the joint hire agent.

What sets the Royal Borough apart from other hotspots in London?

The people who live in it; there’s an enormous tug-of-war between the very old-fashioned lot (‘been here for years, darling, and hasn’t this area changed so much?’) and the new lot. The ‘new lot’ are mostly overseas buyers who just love London; they’re unpretentious and have made the whole borough far more vibrant, effervescent and multicultural.

What would be your advice to anyone looking to invest in property in this area?

If it’s cheap, there’s a reason; simple as that. Always buy quality and in an established area. Try to buy from someone who has no taste whatsoever – a self-confessed ‘environmental Neanderthal!’ – because that way you can improve the value quite easily, with flowers and lovely furniture, without having to spend a fortune on building works.

Would you invest in property for your children?

My wife, when she first came to London in 1980, had a salary of £5,000.

In those days for £30,000 you could buy a house off Garratt Lane, six times a secretary’s salary. A secretary’s salary is now £25,000, six times that is £150,000 but if you’re buying a house off Garratt Lane it’ll be £650,000.

So am I buying my children property in London? Yes, when I win the lottery! If I could, I would love to because rent is incredibly expensive.

Property or pension?

If I’m a really dutiful saver and I build up this huge pension plan then retire at the age of 60 and die at the age of 61, I lose the whole lot. Why would I do that? What I would always advocate is that all of your money should go into property, which you then rent out as an investment when you retire.

And I’ve always said that, because I was part of the generation that grew up when property was going through the roof. A lot of people of my age bought properties for £100,000 which are now worth a million.

How has 2013 been so far and what is your forecast for the rest of the year?

This has been a record-breaking year on the back of what was an utterly depressing and awful year for the property industry. First of all you had the Olympics last year and secondly you had the spectre, the sickle, of stamp duty land tax. This year, so far, we’ve seen prices continue to rise and volumes increasing. My feeling is that the autumn market will be extremely good, then I think we enter some unknown territory. There might be a burst of activity in September and October, but in November, you might see the market go into dormant mode, which will be awful for the property business, but let’s see what happens.

020 7629 7282; struttandparker.com

If you could change one thing about the current system what would it be?

The government in 2006 introduced a very misguided set of legislation which resulted in the Home Information Pack, designed to make the whole buying process less painful. I still think the buying process in England and Wales needs reform; there should be a reform whereby vendors can suddenly change their mind and do anything they want.

Of course they’re not the only guilty party; we have some thoroughly unethical buyers who will try and reduce their offer on the day of exchange, leaving the apoplectic vendor in tears. I think property brings out the worst aspects of people’s behaviour and I think there would be room for some neat legislation that inflicts financial penalty on people who behave badly.

Maybe something where both parties sign a Memorandum of Understanding and they both have to make a deposit, representing a percentage of the property’s value.

You like changing clients’ attitudes about what estate agents do; how?

If you’re a nurse or doctor or airline pilot, you begin contact with people with a great reputation. If you go in and say you’re an estate agent, people have a completely different viewpoint. We change the way people think about the business by being completely excellent for them and because we have great people who are really serious about what they do. There’s no magic formula.

THE KENSINGTON & CHELSEA MAGAZINE

173

Who should we instruct and will they have the right buyers?

Which valuation really is right?

HOW DO YOU CHOOSE YOUR ESTATE AGENT?

Who will gain me the most exposure and the most viewings?

WE’VE GOT PRIME CENTRAL LONDON COVERED. SOUTH KENSINGTON

KENSINGTON

NOTTING HILL

KNIGHTSBRIDGE

020 7373 5052

020 7727 1500

020 7727 3227

020 7589 6616

Will they support us through to completion?

CHOOSE ONE THAT EXCELS AT EVERY POINT OF THE SELLING PROCESS There are an ever-growing number of estate agents to choose from.

So why choose Winkworth?

For us, it’s not just about valuing to gain the instruction then letting property websites do our work. It’s about excelling proactively at every stage of the process, from the moment we are invited in, to our receiving an instruction, to securing the right exposure and the offers that match or exceed our asking price, and to seeing the sale through to a successful completion.

We are able to do this because we have been local experts in your area for many years, have a superb database of prospects and have sold and let many properties like yours before.

And, unlike many other agents, our clients know we are here to stay.

Winkworth. See things differently.

winkworth.co.uk

EBURY STREET, LONDON, SW1W ÂŁ2,450,000 STC LEASEHOLD Superb maisonette with separate studio at the rear of the private garden. An extremely unusual ground and lower floor conversion flat in this former period terraced house in the heart of Belgravia. The property is entered via a communal entrance and features an extensive conservatory area over part of the private patio garden that grants access to a studio with high ceilings and en-suite shower room.

Smart Communal Entrance | Entrance hall | Reception room | Open-plan Kitchen with Dining Area | WC | Conservatory | Separate Studio with En Suite Shower Room | Two Double Bedrooms | Bathroom | Utility Room | Vault Storage | Private Patio Garden | Internal Light Well | Qualification for City of Westminster Parking Permits

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winkworth.co.uk/knightsbridge-chelsea 020 7589 6616 knightsbridge@winkworth.co.uk

See things differently.

WALTON PLACE, LONDON, SW3 ÂŁ8,750,000 STC FREEHOLD Stunning stucco Freehold house in the heart of Knightsbridge with Planning Permission. Located in this premium position seconds from the world famous Harrods department store, this attractive stucco fronted house could be occupied at little further expense. The property is approached via a pretty front garden and enjoys a handsome fa ade with feature bay-window on the raised ground floor plus an ornamental balcony on the rst floor accessed from the reception rooms rench doors.

Private Street Entrance | Entrance Hall | Double Reception Room with Adjacent Study | Dining Room | Media Room with En-Suite Shower Room | Wet Bar | Modern Kitchen with Breakfast Area | WC | Utility Vaults | Vault Store | Rear Store | Master Bedroom Suite with Separate Dressing Room | Second Bedroom Sutie | Two Further Double Bedrooms | Single Bedroom | Family Bathroom | Two Balconies | Private Front and Rear Gardens | Qualification for RBKC Parking Permits

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winkworth.co.uk/knightsbridge-chelsea 020 7589 6616 knightsbridge@winkworth.co.uk

See things differently.

SOUTHWELL GARDENS, SW7 ÂŁ1,700,000 SHARE OF FREEHOLD A magni cent rst floor two bedroom flat on one of South Kensington s nest streets Southwell Gardens. Spanning

s ft

s m of carefully planned

space of particular note is the south facing roof terrace to the rear balcony to the front and high ceilings in the reception room and kitchen. Southwell Gardens is a much sought after street built in

by ohn Wilkins and enviably located close to the open spaces of yde Park Kensington Gardens and

all the shopping opportunities amenities and transport links of Gloucester Road and the Cromwell Road A .

Reception Room | Large Kitchen | Two Bedrooms | Bathroom | Roof Terrace and Balcony | igh Ceilings | EPC Rating D

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winkworth.co.uk/south-kensington 020 7373 5052 southkensington@winkworth.co.uk

See things differently.

ROSARY GARDENS, SW7 ÂŁ725 PER WEEK FURNISHED A bright and spacious furnished property on the third floor of this well maintained period conversion. With hardwood floors throughout accommodation is comprised of two double bedrooms one en-suite third bedroom study further family bathroom and large west-facing reception room with integrated modern kitchen. The property is well nished throughout and is moments from all of the amenities of South Kensington and a ve minute walk to Gloucester Road tube station District Circle and Piccadilly lines . Available ow.

Period Conversion | Three Bedrooms Two Double One Single Study | Large West acing Reception Room | Two Bathrooms One En Suite | Third loor | Wooden loors Throughout | odern Kitchen | urnished

Scan Scan this this code to download totodownload Winkworth the iPhone iPhone appapp Scan this code download theWinkworth Winkworth iPhone app Scan this code tocode download thethe Winkworth iPhone app

winkworth.co.uk/knightsbridge-chelsea winkworth.co.uk/knightsbridge-chelsea winkworth.co.uk/knightsbridge-chelsea winkworth.co.uk/south-kensington winkworth.co.uk/south-kensington 020 7589 020 7589 7589 6616 6616 6616 knightsbridge@winkworth.co.uk knightsbridge@winkworth.co.uk knightsbridge@winkworth.co.uk 0205052 7373 5052 southkensington@winkworth.co.uk lettings.southken@winkworth.co.uk 020 7373 southkensington@winkworth.co.uk

See See things things differently. differently.

See things differently.

See things differently.

HILLGATE STREET, W8 ÂŁ2,999,950 FREEHOLD A beautifully presented and spacious four bedroom Victorian terraced house situated in the heart of Hillgate Village and within the catchment area for Fox Primary School. This superb house also bene ts from two separate outdoor decked areas accessible from three levels and is less than ve minutes walk from Notting Hill Gate station.

Double Reception Room | Kitchen/Dining Room | Principal Bedroom with En Suite Shower Room | Three Further Bedrooms | Bathroom | Two Separate WCs | Patio Garden | Roof Terrace | Utility Room | Storage Spaces | EPC Rating: E

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winkworth.co.uk/kensington 020 7727 1500 kensington@winkworth.co.uk

See things differently.

STAFFORD TERRACE, W8

£11,750,000 FREEHOLD

An immaculate Grade II listed family home on Kensington’s prestigious Phillimore Estate with a south facing garden. This five bedroom house has excellent volume and well balanced accommodation.

Principal Bedroom Suite | Four Further Bedrooms | Two Bathrooms | En Suite Shower Room | Study | Drawing Room | Dining Room | Kitchen/Breakfast Room | Family Room | WC | Utility Room | Attic Room | South Facing Garden I EPC Rating: D JSA: Knight Frank 020 7938 4311

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winkworth.co.uk/kensington 020 7727 1500 kensington@winkworth.co.uk

See things differently.

WESTBOURNE PARK ROAD, W2 £4,750,000 FREEHOLD A truly unique, magnificent family home – semi-detached, with almost 3,000sq/ft laid out over just three floors and filled with a wealth of period detailing.

Beyond intricate landscaped front gardens an impressive entrance opens to expansive living space over the ground floor opening to large gardens to the rear. A central staircase leads up to spacious landings on both of the upper floors, off which are five bedrooms, all generously proportioned, and two large bathrooms.

Five Bedrooms | Two Bathrooms | Two Reception Rooms | House | Semi Detached | Garden | 2,939 Approx Sq Ft | EPC Rating: D JSA Crayson: Tel 02072211117

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winkworth.co.uk/notting-hill 020 7727 3227 nottinghill@winkworth.co.uk

See things differently.

WESTBOURNE GROVE, W11 ÂŁ3,250,000 LEASEHOLD A fabulous, contemporary apartment entirely redesigned to provide wonderful open entertaining space, an indulgent master bedroom suite and two further large bedrooms above, with style and specification throughout unquestionably first class. A decked south facing terrace provides the perfect finishing touch.

Three Bedrooms | Two Bathrooms | One Reception Room | South Facing Terrace | Maisonette |1,653 Approx Sq Ft | EPC Rating: C

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winkworth.co.uk/notting-hill 020 7727 3227 nottinghill@winkworth.co.uk

See things differently.

you’re

OUR APPROACH IS UNIQUE:

184 EXPERIENCED AGENTS ACROSS OUR 19 OFFICES all work together to find the perfect buyer or tenant for your property

97% OF OUR SELLERS WOULD CONSIDER COMING BACK TO US TO SELL THEIR PROPERTY IN THE FUTURE

Local know-how. Better results.

We have more offices in the Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea than any other London agent

WE PROMOTE A CULTURE OF INTEGRITY; WE ALREADY KNOW ALMOST

PROSPECTIVE BUYERS AND TENANTS WHO ARE LOOKING FOR A PROPERTY JUST LIKE YOURS

our reputation is of the utmost importance to us and we are committed to delivering an excellent, reliable and proactive service of which we can be proud

On average we achieve

OF THE ASKING PRICE

Local know-how. Better results.

Our ofďŹ ces:

Battersea

Chelsea

Fulham

Kensington

Mayfair

Pimlico & Westminster

Balham

Bishops Park

Clapham

Hammersmith

Little Venice

North Kensington

South Kensington

Barnes

Brook Green

Earls Court

Holland Park

Marylebone

Notting Hill

Warwick Gardens W14 ÂŁ6,500,000 A truly spectacular, semi detached family house boasting an exceptional garden, off street parking and generous living space. The accommodation features a beautiful double reception room, a second reception room, a superb kitchen, study, a separate dining room and an incredible summerhouse with its own shower room and kitchenette. The bedroom accommodation provides four spacious bedrooms (one en suite), a family bathroom, two further shower rooms and a guest cloakroom. Freehold. EPC=E. Sole Agents.

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

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SALES

See all of our properties online: marshandparsons.co.uk

Norland Square W11 £6,400,000 Enjoying wonderful light and a wealth of original features, this beautifully balanced home offers excellent family accommodation with an abundance of period charm, a private mature, walled garden and access to Norland Square.. The reception space is arranged over the lower three floors and includes a magnificent drawing room on the first floor with southerly views towards the garden square. Bedroom accommodation includes a master suite and five further bedrooms served by a bathroom and shower room. EPC=C. Sole Agents.

PRIME SALES: 020 7313 2891 PrimeSales@marshandparsons.co.uk

Clareville Grove SW7 ÂŁ4,695,000 Presented in excellent condition throughout, this house boasts exceptional reception space, generous bedroom accommodation and a large double width private garden, a rarity in South Kensington. The accommodation comprises a large double reception room with access via French doors to the garden, a kitchen, dining/family room, WC and a beautiful conservatory. The bedroom accommodation boasts a superb master suite and two large double bedrooms served by a family bathroom. Freehold. EPC=E. Sole Agents.

SOUTH KENSINGTON: 020 7590 0800 sales.skn@marshandparsons.co.uk

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SALES

See all of our properties online: marshandparsons.co.uk

Burnsall Street SW3 ÂŁ4,250,000 This stunning period house boasts over 2,200 sq ft of accommodation including a double reception room and a large eat-in kitchen, with a plenty of natural light leading out to a superb west facing patio garden. The renovated basement provides a fabulous guest suite, a well proportioned reception room, utility room, gym and a wine cellar. The bedroom accommodation includes a grand master suite and three double bedrooms served by three bathrooms. Freehold. EPC=F. Sole Agents.

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

Caroline Place W2 ÂŁ3,750,000 This beautifully presented, semi-detached house is located in a sought after enclave moments from Kensington Gardens. The property has been refurbished to the highest of standards, comprising wonderfully bright, open-plan living space leading out to a private walled garden, a formal reception room, roof terrace, four double bedroom suites and two further bedrooms served by an additional bathroom. Two private garages adjoin the property and can be accessed directly through the garden. Freehold. EPC=D. Sole Agents.

PRIME SALES: 020 7313 2891 PrimeSales@marshandparsons.co.uk

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SALES

See all of our properties online: marshandparsons.co.uk

Chelsea Embankment SW3 £2,250,000 Situated on the second floor of a Grade II listed building on Chelsea Embankment, this stunning two-bedroom apartment offers sensational river views. The apartment has recently undergone a complete renovation and offers outstanding proportions including a grand kitchen/reception room with wooden flooring and large windows looking out onto the river, two double bedrooms and two brand new bathrooms (one en suite). Leashold. EPC=D. Joint Sole Agent.

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

Linden Gardens W2 ÂŁ1,650,000 A magniďŹ cent apartment in a highly sought after enclave just off Notting Hill Gate presented in excellent decorative order throughout. The accommodation boasts a wonderful open plan reception/dining room with gloriously high ceilings, a stylish fully integrated kitchen with Miele appliances, three double bedrooms, all of which are en suite, a separate WC, access to a decked terrace from the master bedroom and plenty of storage space. Leasehold. EPC=D. Sole Agent.

NOTTING HILL: 020 7313 2890 sales.not@marshandparsons.co.uk

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SALES

See all of our properties online: marshandparsons.co.uk

Eardley Crescent SW5 £1,450,000 This is a beautifully refurbished lateral apartment with its own courtyard garden presented in excellent decorative order throughout.

The property benefits from an open plan reception/dining room with lovely wooden flooring throughout, a modern galley kitchen, a large master bedroom with a walk-in wardrobe, luxurious en suite bathroom and patio doors leading directly onto the decked terrace, and two further double bedrooms, one with en suite bathroom and access to the terrace. Leasehold. EPC=D.

EARLS COURT: 020 7835 0620 sales.ect@marshandparsons.co.uk

ELSHAM ROAD, W14 ÂŁ3,500,000 Freehold

A contemporary five-bedroom town house designed by Smerin Architects offering incredible living and entertaining space.

Measuring over 2800 square feet with the latest in comfort and home technology including broad oak flooring, under floor heating, Sonos multi room hifi and mood setting Lutron lighting. epc = e -

Two reception rooms Open-plan kitchen/dining room Five bedrooms (three en suite) South-west facing garden Off-street parking Approx. 265 sq m (2,853 Sq ft)

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

DN10 indd.indd 26-27

DE VERE GARDENS, W8

ÂŁ3,750,000 Share of freehold

A handsome and rarely available two bedroom maisonette occupying a prime position near Kensington Gardens.

Superbly presented and beautifully styled, this wonderful home offers a wealth of original features with a contemporary modern twist. epc = c -

Large reception room Contemporary kitchen Two bedrooms (both en suite) Home office Dressing room Approx 188 sq m (2,020 sq ft).

06/09/2013 18:09:17

PEMBRIDGE SQUARE, W2 ÂŁ3,950,000 Leasehold

An elegant two-bedroom, lateral apartment within a double fronted Victorian villa overlooking beautiful Pembridge Square.

Perfectly proportioned with an abundance of light and space, this incredible property offers classic charm and a welcoming ambience. epc = f -

Double reception room Kitchen/breakfast room Two bedrooms (one en suite) Home office/childs play room Private courtyard garden Approx. 175 sq m (sq 1,886 sq ft)

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

DN10 indd.indd 28-29

LADBROKE GROVE, W11 ÂŁ4,750,000 Share of freehold

A spectacular four-bedroom maisonette with a private roof terrace and direct access into stunning communal gardens.

Tastefully styled and immaculately presented throughout, this sublime family home is situated in an enviable location.

JSA Knight Frank. epc = e -

Formal reception room Open-plan kitchen/family room Four bedrooms (two en suite) Home study + private roof terrace Direct access to communal gardens Approx. 209 sq m (2,246 sq ft)

06/09/2013 18:09:29

NORLAND SQUARE, W11 ÂŁ5,500 per week Long let

An exceptionally beautiful six bedroom family home with superb living space, overlooking a Holland Park garden square.

Spanning five fantastic floors and retaining many original features, the house is thoughtfully arranged and beautifully presented throughout. epc = e -

Large first floor reception room Family room + home office Sizeable kitchen/breakfast room Six bedrooms Private rear garden Approx. 305 sq m (3,293 sq ft)

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

DN10 indd.indd 30-31

w ALBA PLACE, W11

ÂŁ1,250 per week Long let

An intriguing mews house off Portobello Road with a unique sense of space and an abundance of natural light.

With a bespoke and imaginative interior this fantastic home offers contemporary open-plan living in a fashionable address location. epc = d -

First floor reception room Open-plan kitchen/dining room Two bedrooms (one en suite) Sauna + plunge pool Gated mews development Approx. 93 sq m (1,007 sq ft)

06/09/2013 18:09:40

PORTOBELLO ROAD, W11 ÂŁ1,150 per week Long let

A bright and spacious two-bedroom maisonette on the doorstep of the World famous, Portobello Road.

With a private entrance and a fantastic roof garden, this sublime residence presents spacious living in an enviable address location. epc = d -

Large reception room Open-plan kitchen + dining room Two double bedrooms Private roof garden + balcony Own entrance Approx. 115 sq m (1,246 Sq ft)

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

DN10 indd.indd 32-33

KENSINGTON PARK ROAD, W11 ÂŁ1,400 per week Long let

A wonderfully elegant three bedroom apartment with a fabulous roof terrace, in the heart of Notting Hill.

This carefully considered home has been beautifully styled to offer a chic ambience throughout. epc = d -

Period conversion Large reception room

Three bedrooms Two bathrooms (one en suite) Private roof garden Approx 94 sq m (1,014 Sq ft)

06/09/2013 18:09:51

Home Is Where the Heart Is ANNABEL HARRISON speaks to Silvia Lawson Johnston, the founder of London-based short-let specialist A Place Like Home, about her company, her career and Chesterfields

Photography: Sarel Jansen

I WAS INFORMED by a colleague, before our interview, that Silvia Lawson Johnston is a truly delightful lady and, when we meet, this is proved right.

Friendly and charming, she exudes an air of confidence and trustworthiness, which is surely why affluent home owners all over London entrust their properties to her care from time to time. Silvia’s company, A Place Like Home, was founded 23 years ago and it does exactly what it says on the tin; for anyone visiting London and yearning to spend their time somewhere more informal than a hotel, but more relaxing and spacious than staying with family, Silvia and her roster of beautiful properties should be your first port of call.

Her career trajectory and entry into the property industry is most interesting and, I discover, rather unusual. When Silvia came to London in 1972, she “met a wonderful man called Alistair Colvin. He owned a property company called Robert Bruce & Partners, one of the select few like Knight Frank; in those days there were the great 12 agents and that was about it. He asked if I’d like to work for him at his estate agency in Kensington, so I joined him, armed with my A-Z, and I was a sales negotiator there for seven years.

I got to know London and the estate agents of my era really well.”

Silvia then joined forces with Ian Inskip and Brian Darcey-Clark to found London estate agency Chesterfields in 1984. Three years later the idea of relocation began to bubble up because of the influx of people, mainly Americans, coming to the city. “I was approached by someone at American Express suggesting that I should really be in relocation. ‘We need someone in the property market; we’ll set you up’. And that’s what they did. We called ourselves People and Property Relocation, moved into Chelsea and we had a lot of great city contacts; it did extremely well”. It was three years on, in 1990, when Silvia thought of the idea for A Place Like Home. “Couples would fly into London and be booked into a hotel; he would be picked up and driven down to the City to bond with his colleagues, while his wife sat on the end of the bed in tears, begging her husband not to take the job. I thought that there must be some way of making it more comfortable for her; if she could live somewhere that was private, in the area where she would eventually find a home, she would be more able to deal with the transition.”

PROPERTY

Intially some of Silvia’s friends’ second homes were rented out and “slowly it built up, home by home, into a business”, helped out by the change in the Rent Act and the property market being at its lowest ebb (“people really needed the money”). Thus A Place Like Home was born, offering short lets from one week to three months in any one of 250 prime properties.

Clients can stay anywhere from a one bedroom apartment to a four bedroom house, depending on their requirements. The homes are centrally located in Belgravia, Knightsbridge, South Kensington, Chelsea and Kensington and “most are owners’ own homes with all the warmth, detail and amenities of a real home and without the confinements of a hotel or the lack of personality of commercial apartments”. Prices include gas, electricity, linens and taxes and Silvia’s team can easily arrange transfers to and from airports, private cars, sightseeing tours, babysitting and baby equipment hire.

Impressively, Silvia is trilingual, which must help considering the company’s number of international clients. “I didn’t come to England until I was 18, when I married a Mr Lawson Johnston. I learnt my English in the States. My first language is Spanish, my second is French and my third is English; I spoke it with my sister because we were immersed in the States.

I can get by in Italian too.” Clients are mostly from the English-speaking

Owners can also be safe in the knowledge that the experienced A Place Like Home team knows the provenance of everyone who will be staying in their property. “We have all their details; we know where they’re coming from, we have the first page of their passport, they sign a document and that’s about as far as you can go. The kind of people we attract, and going into the houses we offer are probably coming from the same style and background anyway. We’re not catering for backpackers!

“Also, you build a great deal of trust with the owners,” Silvia continues.

“When tenants have a good experience, we always send on the letters saying how much they liked the flat.” There is in fact a framed letter in Silvia’s office from a little girl who loved her stay so much she drew a picture of the house.

“It gives them a sense that their property’s being looked after. That’s why I contain my business, so I can do a really good job for them all.”

020 7228 4668 / web@aplacelikehome.co.uk aplacelikehome.co.uk

in

world – North America and Canada, South America, Hong Kong, Australia, New Zealand – because “people coming long distance tend to stay longer.

They immerse themselves in Europe by coming to London.” Testament to the quality of the service is that there is a huge level of returning clients: “Someone has been back 30 times now!”

Unsurprisingly, Silvia is passionate about London and the Royal Borough. “It’s the residential area of London you’d want to live in. Everything is fairly close and yet the character of places change; whether you’re wandering around Sloane Square, Knightsbridge or Notting Hill Gate, you’re soaking up a different atmosphere.” More than 50 per cent of Silvia’s business comes from people who are visiting London rather than those on business. “The tourist industry is a year-round business now, whereas it used to be much more cyclical. People are travelling much more in the winter; what we call ‘out of season’. During London’s big events – the Chelsea Flower Show, antiques fairs, the sales – you always see an increase.”

Silvia’s warm personality obviously ensures that both house owners and tenants feel reassured, each coming with their own set of priorities and concerns. “The owners were anxious about having their properties seen anywhere, let alone in print; short lets was a whole new industry. So we stayed very low profile, protecting our owners and never allowing them to feel anxious that strangers were coming into their house. But slowly, as this short let business increased and evolved, becoming larger and larger, my competitors became bolder and began advertising, while we kept ourselves very discreet on behalf of the owners. This is the only time I’ve ever advertised in 23 years; this is the moment to be more visual.”

THE KENSINGTON & CHELSEA MAGAZINE

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Why it’s wise to get an airline pilot to sell your next house In some professions, people just can’t get it wrong. Airline pilots, for example.

We believe our clients should demand the same exceptionally high level of trust and expectation from the people they’re instructing to buy or sell their property.

With an intimate knowledge of the best properties in our specialist area, we can make sure you land the best price. Or fly you round to someone we know with exactly the property you’re looking for.

At Crayson, we strive to display the same level of professionalism as expected from other professionals we admire.

Where service has to be gold standard.

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

Hewer Street, London W10 A converted dairy, lofty and currently divided into two properties. For all you alternative lifestylers this will make a perfect home – fresh milk on tap!

This conversion of an old dairy, all exposed brickwork and light airy loft like vibe, is as relevant today as when it was first done 10 years ago. The kitchen/dining/living zone at the top with its vast vaulted ceiling gives a wonderful feeling of space rarely found in London.

Two reception rooms Master bedroom suite Three further bedrooms, bathroom and two shower rooms Cloakroom Terrace Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea 2,105 sq ft / 195.6 sq m & 713 sq ft / 66.2 sq m Energy Performance Rating Bands D & E Guide Price ÂŁ3,500,000 Share of Freehold

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

Alexander Street, Notting Hill W2 Everything a young couple or family could need in one great triplex, with balconies, a garden and off-street parking for two cars. Get in line‌ Sometimes you walk into a house, and you can tell, right there in the hall, whether it is happy or sad, has good vibes or bad. This great triplex on the northern edge of Notting Hill definitely has good vibes.

Three reception rooms Kitchen/diner, study/library & further study Master bedroom suite Two further bedrooms, bathroom and two cloakrooms Garden, terrace, balcony & off-street parking City of Westminster 1,845 sq ft / 171.4 sq m Energy Performance Rating Band E Price ÂŁ2,750,000 Freehold

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

ddison enue, olland Park W11 ometimes, a property comes along that makes you feel that howe er bad life gets, you would always be ne if you could just li e in this wonderful house.

That feeling is what makes people go the distance to buy the home of their dreams and it is why you need to get in quick to buy this house.

Double reception room Kitchen/dining room, family room & study Master bedroom Four further bedrooms, two bathrooms & shower room Utility room and wine cellar Front and rear 81 ft garden Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea 2,518 sq ft / 234 sq m Guide Price ÂŁ7 million Freehold

Joint Sole Agents Crayson T 020 7221 1117 hello@crayson.com John D. Wood & Co. T 020 7727 2233 hollandpark@johndwood.co.uk

We’re unlocking overseas potential D&G now have six affiliated offices across the globe, giving your property essential international exposure.

Dubai / Moscow / New York / Paris / South Africa / Sydney

ÂŁ2,250,000 Leasehold Chelsea Embankment SW3 A spectacular second floor two bedroom two bathroom flat with direct southerly views over the River Thames towards Battersea Park.

Chelsea Sales 020 7225 1225 chelseasales@dng.co.uk

Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, Second bedroom, Shower room, Reception room, Harvey Jones kitchen/dining room, Under floor heating in bathrooms, Hardwood timber floors throughout, EPC: D.

douglasandgordon.com

ÂŁ1,795,000 Leasehold Penywern Road SW5 A spacious and contemporary three bedroom flat with a south-facing terrace arranged over the top three floors of this period building.

Kensington Gate Sales 020 7581 1152 kengatesales@dng.co.uk

Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, 2 further bedrooms, one with en-suite bathroom, Reception room with open-plan kitchen, Cloakroom, Terrace, Additional flexible living space, EPC: D.

School search The extraordinary D&G website makes searching for a local school in your desired area as easy as ABC with our new interactive map.

ÂŁ2,650 per week Unfurnished Cadogan Street SW3 A fantastic family house offering flexible accomodation and great entertaining space, just a short walk from Sloane Square.

Chelsea Lettings 020 7581 6666 chelsealets@dng.co.uk

5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms (1 en-suite), Reception room, Kitchen/ breakfast room, Playroom, Family room, Laundry room, EPC: D.

douglasandgordon.com

ÂŁ1,795 ÂŁ750 per per week week Unfurnished Unfurnished Hurlingham Palace Gardens Peterborough Terrace W8 Estate A wonderful, totally unique former coach house laid out over two floors with extremely spacious accommodation ideal for entertaining.

Kensington Lettings 020 7792 1331 kenlets@dng.co.uk

4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Cloakroom, Reception room, Dining room, Study, Kitchen/breakfast room, Utility room, 2 terraces, EPC: E.

Montpelier Walk, Knightsbridge SW7 • 3 Bedrooms

• Kitchen

• 2 Bathrooms (1 en suite)

• Balcony

• Cloakroom

• Patio

• Drawing room

• Approx. 1,440 sq ft (133.8 sq m)

• Dining room

• EPC rating: current (E) potential (B)

Guide price £2,890,000 Freehold

“ An attractive house in this quiet and picturesque street in the heart of Knightsbridge Village”

Cadogan Gardens, Knightsbridge SW3 • 4 Bedrooms

• Air conditioning

• 3 Bathrooms (1 en suite)

• Lift

• Reception room

• Porter

• Dining room

• Approx. 2,340 sq ft (217 sq m)

• Kitchen / breakfast room

• EPC rating: current (D) potential (D)

“ An exceptionally well presented third floor family flat occupying a prime position close to Sloane Square and the King’s Road”

Guide price £6,200,000 Share of freehold

For more information call Daniel Wiggin on 020 7306 1610 or email dwiggin@waellis.com

W.A.Ellis LLP 174 Brompton Road London SW3 1HP

waellis.com

Abbotsbury Road, Holland Park W14 • 4 Bedrooms

• Study

• 2 Bathrooms

• Paved garden

• Guest cloakroom

• Off street parking

• Reception room

• Approx. 1,911 sq ft (177 sq m)

• Kitchen/dining room

• EPC rating: current (E) potential (D)

“ A stunning, newly refurbished family house on the doorstep of Holland Park”

£2,100 per week Unfurnished

For more information call David Mills on 020 7306 1630 or email dmills@waellis.com

W.A.Ellis LLP 174 Brompton Road London SW3 1HP

waellis.com

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

Everyone’s a V.I.P. One-to-one service, 7 days a week.

Enjoy the red carpet approach. Clients receive exceptional personal service, tailored national and international marketing and investment surgeries at home and overseas. For a glimpse of our V.I.P. promise, visit waellis.com

@waellis | 020 7306 1600

Sales, Lettings, Refurbishments, Surveyors and Valuers

PROPERTY

Expert Advice Hogarths’ RONAN MCKENNA explains how to give your home the X-factor

THEY SAY LOCATION, location, location is the first key thing to remember when making a purchase but at boutique independent agent Hogarths, we believe it’s makeover, makeover, makeover when attempting to achieve the best possible price level. We are still astounded at the number of buyers, through no fault of their own, who don’t have vision when looking for property. Many are upwardly mobile city folk with high pressure jobs that take up a huge amount of their time. They are crunching figures and doing deals on a global scale and probably don’t have the time or inclination to think about what looks best where or what colour is going to showcase the property better.

Hogarths offers a free house doctor service when clients instruct us. It’s not just about what looks good; it’s more about what’s commercial, creating a feeling of space and ultimately the must-have factor.

We recently sold a property in Nevern Square for £20,000 above the asking price of £1 million because we carried this out effectively. It really can be the difference between asking price offers or actually creating a sale at all. Sometimes it’s simply moving things around, or changing colours to make a room feel bigger, but we are always able to offer clients help and advice on how to improve on presentation and clinch a sale. Our clients are a real mix of people, ranging from Middle Eastern Royalty to bankers, high net worth individuals and captains of industry who don’t have the time to deal with these details.

220

Above/ Nevern Square, SW5 (new record price in the square: £1,250,000)

Ronan McKenna 020 7373 5222 ronan@hogarthestates.co.uk THE KENSINGTON & CHELSEA MAGAZINE

YouÊneverÊphone, youÊneverÊwrite.

We know buying, selling or renting a property is stressful enough. The last thing you need is an unresponsive agent.

That’s why we are committed to offering you the highest knowledge and service standards.

When engaging Maskells two members of our experienced team will be personally assigned to you. So whatever your enquiry, rest assured, you will always receive the service you expect.

Call us and see how our personal approach makes us stand out from the crowd.

ResidentialÊAgentsÊinÊtheÊRoyalÊBoroughÊandÊSW1ÊsinceÊ1965Ê M A S K E L L S E S TAT E A G E N T S W W W. M A S K E L L S . C O . U K

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06/09/2013 12:07

ElystanÊPlace ChelseaÊSW3

A well presented four bedroom family home situated in the heart of Chelsea Green. Within walking distance of the ings road, loane uare and outh ensington underground stations. he property benefits from wooden floors, neutral décor and two roof terraces. The house comprises three double bedrooms, single bedroom/ study, two bathrooms, reception room, separate kitchen and WC. Energy Rating D. 4 Bedrooms · Reception Room · Separate Kitchen · 2 Bathrooms · 2 Roof Terraces

£1450pw (£6,283.33 pcm) Available Now. Unfurnished.

ResidentialÊAgentsÊinÊtheÊRoyalÊBoroughÊandÊSW1ÊsinceÊ1965Ê M A S K E L L S E S TAT E A G E N T S W W W. M A S K E L L S . C O . U K

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06/09/2013 12:07

Mas

EgertonÊGardens ChelseaÊSW3

A first floor (with lift) three bedroom flat situated on a prime residential street just off Brompton Road and within walking distance of Harrods and both Knightsbridge and South Kensington underground stations. The property has been newly decorated to a high standard and boasts two terraces, wood flooring, high ceilings and contemporary fixtures and fittings throughout. Energy rating C. 3 Bedrooms · Reception Room · Separate Kitchen · 2 Bathrooms · 2 Terraces · Lift

£995pw (£4,311.67 pcm) Available Now. Unfurnished.

ResidentialÊAgentsÊinÊtheÊRoyalÊBoroughÊandÊSW1ÊsinceÊ1965Ê M A S K E L L S E S TAT E A G E N T S W W W. M A S K E L L S . C O . U K

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06/09/2013 12:07

GrosvenorÊSquareÊÊ W1K

A two bedroom second floor (with lift) flat ideally situated in the heart of ayfair. he flat has been refurbished to a high standard with great care ta en to retain original period features. he flat is situated close to the shops, amenities and transport links of Mayfair and Green Park. Energy Rating D. 2 Bedrooms · Reception Room · Seperate Kitchen · 2 Bathrooms · Porter · Lift

£2,300 pw (£9,966.67 pcm). Available Now. Furnished.

ResidentialÊAgentsÊinÊtheÊRoyalÊBoroughÊandÊSW1ÊsinceÊ1965Ê M A S K E L L S E S TAT E A G E N T S W W W. M A S K E L L S . C O . U K

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THE HOMETEL Maskells_KC_Sept.indd 4

06/09/2013 12:07

PROPERTY

State of the Market ANNABEL HARRISON meets Ria Geerling, head of lettings at Kensington-based estate agency Malverns What brought you to Malverns in January last year?

I wanted change; I had worked for a very large company for quite a few years, and then for a smaller, family company, and this is perfectly in between. What I really love about Malverns is that when people call us, whether they are landlords or applicants, they can be sure they will always speak to the same people on the phone. We are small but we’ve been around for 35 years and we have a very knowledgable management. Everyone is always very aware of what everyone else is working on. A lot of people find that important; there was a time when everybody wanted to deal with the biggest agents but that seems to have come full circle.

expensive or inexpensive, it’s all here, whereas in areas like Mayfair you’ve only really got Bond Street, and at the weekends in the middle of Mayfair it’s very quiet, whereas here it’s always lively.

What are the most interesting, and frustrating, parts of lettings?

We work with such a wide cross-section of people from all over the world, and many different nationalities. People always return to Malverns. We have clients who go back 20 years or more and view us as old friends; leaving their children and dogs with us while they have lunch, for example (that has happened!) Properties that they may have bought through us five years ago, they then sell through us and upgrade through us, so we are much more than just an estate agent to them. What’s most frustrating is when you do everything you can and the goalposts are changed at the last moment: or when you advise people on what to do with a property and how to present it, but they won’t listen; then they complain that the property can’t be let.

Would that be your advice to someone looking to rent in this area?

If you see something nice, go for it. If you take time to look at this or that, or make a silly offer, then it’ll be gone.

What sets the Royal Borough apart from other property hotspots?

I have worked in both Knightsbridge and Mayfair but I prefer it here, as an area to work in, because of the mixture of people and also the diversity of property styles; there are old and modern properties, quirky properties, little houses, massive flats... I find that really appealing. In terms of shops,

What differentiates Malverns’ approach from others in the industry?

We are always available and people can easily reach the same person they’ve dealt with before. We also have a vast amount of experience between us. Nowadays I find in some companies that a young person comes along, passes a couple of exams and becomes the manager. We’ve all got many, many years of experience and we’ve been through it all before.

How is the lettings market doing at the moment?

There was a quieter time recently but the last month or so has been busy; we had a lot of stock but it seems to be depleting rapidly. For a while, lettings was a tenants’ market but things are changing and now it’s a landlords’ market; people have to grab that property now.

Was it surprisingly busy in the last two weeks of August?

Yes. I remember that last year we were saying ‘England’s going the way of Europe’, where the whole month of August is dead, but that hasn’t been the case. I was told last week by one of my colleagues that this August was one hell of a lot better than last year!

What do you love most about working in this industry?

The contact with people from all over the world. I’m from Holland originally and it’s so nice when I come across people and I recognise the accent. In terms of quantity of business, we have consistency and that’s what I love.

Malverns, Malvern Court, Onslow Square, SW7 3HU 020 7589 8122; malverns.co.uk

Beauchamp Place, SW3

THE KENSINGTON & CHELSEA MAGAZINE

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Going the extra mile to find the perfect buyer Not only do we market your property through our London and country offices an throu h our net ork of over 650 offices in 47 countries e also actively ro ote your ro erty by e hibitin in international locations here e eet otential buyers face to face. e ill be in on on in October sho casin our ro erty ortfolio to coinci e ith otheby s auction sales. f you are consi erin sellin an re uire enuine orl i e covera e lease contact o hie ani io on so hie. ani o sothebysrealty.co.uk or 0 0 7 0 7 .

King’s Road, Chelsea Guide Price: £1,125,000

Leinster Square, Bayswater Guide Price: £850,000

Over 650 Offices in 47 Countries

Sothebys_Ken&Che Mag_October_13.indd 1

Chester Square, Belgravia Guide Price: £21,000,000

sothebysrealty.co.uk

03/09/2013 10:27

Soth

Kensington, London W8 An elegant and spacious duplex apartment in one of the most attractive buildings in De Vere Gardens.

Three bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms • Dining room • Substantial reception room with balcony • Eat-in kitchen • Two terraces Approximately 3,214 sq ft • Energy Rating: D

020 7293 0879

patrick.lister@sothebysrealty.co.uk

Price on Application Leasehold with 997 years remaining

Over 650 Offices in 47 Countries

10:27

Sothebys_Ken&Che Mag_October_13.indd 2

sothebysrealty.co.uk

03/09/2013 10:27

Chelsea, London SW3

A charming double fronted, low built Chelsea house.

Two bedrooms • Three bathrooms • Double reception room • Study • Terrace Garage • Approximately 1,369 sq ft / 127sq m • Energy Rating: D

020 7293 0879

patrick.lister@sothebysrealty.co.uk

Guide Price: £2,750,000 Freehold

Over 650 Offices in 47 Countries

Sothebys_Ken&Che Mag_October_13.indd 3

sothebysrealty.co.uk

03/09/2013 10:28

Soth

Knightsbridge, London SW3

A well proportioned apartment situated in a residential pocket of Knightsbridge.

Three bedrooms • Two en-suite bathrooms • One en-suite shower room Kitchen/breakfast room • Drawing room • Dining room • Patio Separate front basement entrance • Direct access to gardens Approximately 2,056sq ft / 191sq m • Energy Rating: E

020 7293 0879

patrick.lister@sothebysrealty.co.uk

Guide Price: £4,200,000 Leasehold with 984 years remaining plus a Share of the Freehold

Over 650 Offices in 47 Countries

10:28

Sothebys_Ken&Che Mag_October_13.indd 4

sothebysrealty.co.uk

03/09/2013 10:28

CROWN LODGE, LONDON. SW3 LEASEHOLD ONE BEDROOM GROSS INTERNAL AREA: 450 SQ FT/ 42 SQ M

ÂŁ945,000 stc Bedroom, Bathroom, Reception room, Open plan kitchen, Communal gardens, 24hr porterage, Swimming pool A bright and well presented south facing one bedroom flat on the first floor of this cottage style property with the benefit of its own private front door. The flat has been recently refurbished and has an attractive reception room with a well fitted open plan kitchen. The apartment is to be found in the leafy grounds of the Crown Lodge development.

It consequently benefits from 24 hour porterage, a leisure centre with a large swimming pool and the possibility of an underground parking space to rent. Crown Lodge is set in beautiful communal gardens with its Wisteria draped walkways and Koi stocked pond. The location of this building is excellent, fronting on to quiet Elystan Street. EPC B.

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

henryandjames.co.uk

CROWN LODGE, LONDON. SW3 SHARE OF FREEHOLD TWO BEDROOMS GROSS INTERNAL AREA: 839 SQ FT/ 78 SQ M

ÂŁ1,750,000 stc Two Beds, Two Baths, Reception room, Kitchen, Communal gardens, 24hr porterage, Underground parking, Lift, Swimming pool Well presented two bedroom flat on the third floor (Lift) of this attractive and sought after purpose built block in the heart of Chelsea SW3. This particular apartment is to be found in the favoured centre section of Crown Lodge overlooking the beautiful communal gardens and Wisteria draped walkway.

Nestling in the centre of the lovely communal gardens is the

Koi stocked water feature. Crown Lodge is to be found at this quiet location set back from the one way Elystan Street which runs away from Chelsea Green with its charming selection of market style shops including the fishmonger, fruit and vegetable merchant and the traditional butcher.

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

henryandjames.co.uk

DANVERS STREET, LONDON. SW3 THREE BEDROOMS UNFURNISHED

ÂŁ2,450

PER WEEK stc Two reception rooms, Study, Three double bedrooms, Two bathrooms, Large garden, Profesionally managed.

A recently refurbished and immaculately presented house located on a quiet residential street just off Paultons Square.

The accommodation provides generous entertaining space with a modern open-plan kitchen/ family & dining room leading onto the large sunny garden. There is a fantastic light and airy double reception room on the raised ground

floor with a separate study. Further accomodation comprises master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, further two double bedrooms, family bathroom, guest cloakroom and a garden room. Potential tenants are advised that administration fees may be payable when renting a property. Please ask for details of our charges. EPC rating D.

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

henryandjames.co.uk

SLOANE COURT EAST, LONDON. SW3 FOUR BEDROOMS UNFURNISHED

ÂŁ2,950

PER WEEK stc Double reception room, Four double bedrooms, Three bathrooms, Direct access to communal gardens, Garage.

A fantastic 4 double bedroom house quietly situated in the heart of Chelsea. The property has the rare benefit of direct access to the elegant communal gardens and a private garage.

This family home, which has been neutrally decorated throughout with wood flooring in the reception, has excellent entertaining space, high ceilings and staff accommodation.

Well-located just 5 minutes walk from Sloane Square tube and the Kings Road and a short walk across the river to Battersea Park.The property is available unfurnished for a long term let. Potential tenants are advised that administration fees may be payable when renting a property. Please ask for details of our charges. EPC rating E.

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

henryandjames.co.uk

faronsutaria.co.uk

SALES & LETTINGS

HYDE PARK SQUARE, W2 A sprawling and beautifully presented 5th floor apartment with lift, set within an imposing portered period building overlooking Hyde Park Square. Energy Rating: D. 4 bedrooms, 3 en suite bathrooms, en suite shower room, reception room, communal garden. £3,750,000 Freehold Share 020 7293 0594 nottinghill@faronsutaria.co.uk

SALES • LETTINGS • AUCTIONS • PROPERTY FINANCE • SURVEYS • CONVEYANCING

Ken&Chel mag Oct13.indd 1

OUR SERVICE WILL MOVE YOU

03/09/2013 09:39

Ken&

faronsutaria.co.uk

SALES & LETTINGS

QUEENSBERRY PLACE, SW7 An entire freehold building in prime SW7. Currently configured as individual studio units, across 5 floors generating in the region of £254,000 per annum. Well maintained, it represents an attractive development opportunity (STPP) or portfolio investment. Approx. 6,781 sq ft. Energy Rating: C. 20 bedsits, House in Multiple Occupation (HMO). £7,950,000 Freehold 020 7293 0627 southken@faronsutaria.co.uk

SALES • LETTINGS • AUCTIONS • PROPERTY FINANCE • SURVEYS • CONVEYANCING

09:39

Ken&Chel mag Oct13.indd 2

OUR SERVICE WILL MOVE YOU

03/09/2013 09:39

faronsutaria.co.uk

SALES & LETTINGS

EARLS COURT SQUARE, SW5 A beautifully presented apartment located on the 1st floor of a well maintained Victorian mansion block. Close to the bars, shops, transport links and boutiques of Earls Court, South Kensington and Gloucester Road. Energy Rating: D. 2 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. £1,595,000 Freehold Share 020 7293 0605 earlsct@faronsutaria.co.uk

SALES • LETTINGS • AUCTIONS • PROPERTY FINANCE • SURVEYS • CONVEYANCING

Ken&Chel mag Oct13.indd 3

OUR SERVICE WILL MOVE YOU

03/09/2013 09:40

Ken&

faronsutaria.co.uk

SALES & LETTINGS

CADOGAN GARDENS, SW3 A delightful raised ground floor maisonette situated with a beautiful red brick period conversion close to Sloane Square. Energy Rating: D. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, reception room, communal gardens. £2,250,000 Leasehold 020 7293 0638 chelsea@faronsutaria.co.uk

SALES • LETTINGS • AUCTIONS • PROPERTY FINANCE • SURVEYS • CONVEYANCING

09:40

Ken&Chel mag Oct13.indd 4

OUR SERVICE WILL MOVE YOU

03/09/2013 09:40

THE KNIGHTSBRIDGE, KNIGHTSBRIDGE, SW7 A very spacious two bedroom apartment (1,483 sq ft / 137.8 sq m) on the second floor of one of London’s most prestigious portered developments. Benefiting from a large reception room overlooking The Household Cavalry Barracks, there are also two double bedrooms with the master bedroom having a separate dressing area and large en suite bathroom. There is also one underground parking space.

The Knightsbridge Apartments boast impressive reception areas, award-winning landscaped communal gardens, 24 hour concierge, security and secure underground parking with valet service. There is also a world-class leisure suite, spa and swimming pool and an exclusive business suite available for all residents use. EPC rating D.

Leasehold: 992 years plus share of Freehold Guide price: £5,950,000 020 7225 6509 nicholas.shaw@harrodsestates.com

KNIGHTSBRIDGE OFFICE: 82 BROMPTON ROAD LONDON SW3 1ER T: +44 020 7225 6506 MAYFAIR OFFICE: 61 PARK LANE LONDON W1K 1QF T: +44 020 7409 9001 CHELSEA OFFICE: 58 FULHAM ROAD LONDON SW3 6HH T: +44 (0) 20 7225 6700 HARRODSESTATES.COM

PENTHOUSE, IMPERIAL WHARF, SW6 A stunning three bedroom penthouse apartment (2,782 sq ft / 258.4 sq m) in this highly sought-after Imperial Wharf development.

Accommodation comprises a spacious double reception room with 360-degree views, an additional reception room with open-plan kitchen / dining area, master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, dressing room and private balcony, two further bedrooms with en suite bathrooms. The apartment also benefits from a large wraparound terrace with views of the river Thames and landscaped gardens.

The development has underground parking, 24-hour concierge and a residents gym, as well as close proximity to the shops and restaurants of Fulham and Chelsea and transport links from Imperial Wharf station. EPC rating C.

Leasehold: Approximately 985 years remaining Guide price: ÂŁ4,750,000 020 7225 5911 andrew.gunnforbes@harrodsestates.com

KNIGHTSBRIDGE OFFICE: 82 BROMPTON ROAD LONDON SW3 1ER T: +44 020 7225 6506 MAYFAIR OFFICE: 61 PARK LANE LONDON W1K 1QF T: +44 020 7409 9001 CHELSEA OFFICE: 58 FULHAM ROAD LONDON SW3 6HH T: +44 (0) 20 7225 6700 HARRODSESTATES.COM

ACADEMY GARDENS, KENSINGTON, W8 A bright and airy duplex apartment in this new development situated on the summit of the prestigious Phillimore Estate, and ideally positioned for the excellent facilities found in both Kensington High Street, Notting Hill Gate and the open spaces of Holland Park.

The accommodation of approximately 2,270 sq ft comprises reception / dining room, kitchen, master bedroom suite with en suite bathroom, two further double bedrooms with en suite bathrooms and guest cloakroom. A tenant will also have access to the landscaped communal gardens, 24 hour concierge service and an underground parking space. Available immediately for long term rental on an unfurnished basis. EPC rating E.

Price: ÂŁ3,700 per week 020 7225 5881 can ice. etcher

harro sestates.co

KNIGHTSBRIDGE OFFICE: 82 BROMPTON ROAD LONDON SW3 1ER T: +44 020 7225 6506 MAYFAIR OFFICE: 61 PARK LANE LONDON W1K 1QF T: +44 020 7409 9001 CHELSEA OFFICE: 58 FULHAM ROAD LONDON SW3 6HH T: +44 (0) 20 7225 6700 HARRODSESTATES.COM

ONE HYDE PARK, KNIGHTSBRIDGE, SW1 Located at One Hyde Park in the heart of fashionable Knightsbridge, this three bedroom apartment has been exquisitely designed by Candy & Candy and provides stunning views of London. A tenant will have full access to the neighbouring Mandarin Oriental residents’ services, as well as use of all the exclusive facilities; 24/7 concierge, private cinema, private events room for large groups, virtual experience room, squash court, fully equipped gym, two private exercise studios, ozone pool, Jacuzzi, two saunas, two steam rooms and two treatment rooms.

The apartment itself is over two floors and covers an area of approximately 4,068 sq ft. It comprises two reception rooms, balcony, dining room, kitchen, three double bedrooms (two with en suites), shower room, underground private parking, wine cellar, and separate storage area. Available for long term rental on a furnished basis. EPC rating C. Price: £16,500 per week 020 7225 6602 karen.boland@harrodsestates.com

KNIGHTSBRIDGE OFFICE: 82 BROMPTON ROAD LONDON SW3 1ER T: +44 020 7225 6506 MAYFAIR OFFICE: 61 PARK LANE LONDON W1K 1QF T: +44 020 7409 9001 CHELSEA OFFICE: 58 FULHAM ROAD LONDON SW3 6HH T: +44 (0) 20 7225 6700 HARRODSESTATES.COM

RENOWNED FOR SELLING PRESTIGIOUS PROPERTIES SINCE 1864

John Taylor has always upheld a unique code of conduct. Our values and convictions distinguish us in an increasingly competitive market.

We assert our expertise and professional integrity by maintaining open and straightforward communication with our business partners and clients, in order to provide the highest level of service.

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COSTA

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GENEVA

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GSTAAD

•

LONDON

WESTBOURNE TERRACE, W2 - ELEGANT HOME FOR ENTERTAINING A L

T

John Taylor Ltd dadams@john-taylor.com 020 3284 1888

£4,250,000 Share of Freehold APPROXIMATELY 2,691SQFT EGEVE

•

ERIBEL

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LOOK THROUGH THE KEY HOLES AT OUR PROPERTIES

Barkston Gardens, SW5 – £1,325,000 Sold in 48 Hours

020 7373 5222 info@hogarthestates.co.uk www.hogarthestates.co.uk

Morton Mews, SW5 – £3,175,000 Sold ahead of four other agents

HOGARTHS—UNLOCKING YOUR PROPERTY’S POTENTIAL

Child Street, SW5 – £1,200,000 Record price

Earls Court Gardens, SW5 – £2,995,000 Sold ahead of two other agents

H

Hogarths

ST LEONARD’S TERRACE, SW3 4QG A stunning garden apartment situated in this elegant period building within easy walking distance to the Kings Road and Sloane Square benefitting from wood flooring and a lovely private terrace. » » » » »

Reception Kitchen Double bedroom 2 Shower rooms Terrace

£695 PER WEEK - FURNISHED CHELSEA CLOISTERS, SW3 3EJ A newly decorated and quietly situated 5th floor flat with lift located in a well run block with 24 hour porters and ideally situated equal distance from Sloane Square and South Kensington underground stations. » » » » » »

Studio room Kitchen Bathroom 24 Hour porter Communal ch & hw Lift

£315 PER WEEK

www.malverns.co.uk

020 7589 8122

QUEENS GATE PLACE, SW7 5NX A fabulous newly decorated three bedroom ground and lower ground floor maisonette with good ceiling height, wood flooring throughout and a lovely south facing reception room.

The flat offers excellent accommodation comprising of a master bedroom with en suite shower room and doors to patio, two further double bedrooms, family bathroom and cloakroom. There is also access to the communal gardens. » » » » » » » » » »

Entrance hall Reception Dining Room Fully Fitted Kitchen 3 Double Bedrooms En Suite Shower Room Bathroom Patio Cloakroom Communal Gardens

£925 PER WEEK

www.malverns.co.uk

020 7589 8122

.

PRINCE’S GATE KNIGHTSBRIDGE SW7

£10,000,000 share of freehold

5 bedrooms | 3 receptions | 5 bathrooms | balcony | communal gardens | air-con | 24 hr porter | lift | Epc F

020 7229 1414 10 Clarendon Road London W11 3AA elenadimova@century21uk.com

www.century21uk.com

HOLLAND PARK AVENUE W11

ÂŁ3,250 per week

5 bedrooms | double reception | 3 bathrooms | kitchen / breakfast room | study | 2 balconies | garden | Epc E

020 7229 1414 www.century21uk.com

10 Clarendon Road London W11 3AA michaelc@century21uk.com

Kinnerton Place North, Belgravia SW1 Offered for sale for the first time in 46 years, this charming but unmodernised cottage offers an incoming buyer the opportunity to create a delightful London home. Quietly situated just off Kinnerton Street and accessible only on foot, the house is within easy reach of many excellent local amenities.

■ ■

Freehold Price: £1,250,000

Double bedroom ■ Single bedroom ■ Bathroom ■ Drawing room ■ Kitchen ■ Patio garden EPC rating F

Call or visit: 4 Yeoman’s Row Brompton Road London SW3 2AH 020 7590 0066 www.kayeandcarey.co.uk Matthew Kaye

Adam Carey

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06/09/2013 12:19

RHP

Maple Lodge, Kensington Green W8 In arguably one of the best positions in this prestigious development, a second floor flat which overlooks communal gardens and has the benefit of balconies to both the front and rear.

2 double bedrooms ■ 2 bathrooms (1 en suite) ■ Reception room 20’6 x 15’4 (6.24m x 4.67m) Kitchen ■ Underground parking ■ Porter ■ 24 hr security ■ Residents’ gym ■ Communal gardens ■ EPC rating C ■

Lease: 997 years plus Share of Freehold Price: £2,500,000

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Mallord Street, SW3 A wide and immaculately presented six bedroom family house situated in this quiet and popular street moments from Manresa the Kings Road. Extending to approximately 4580 sq ft (426Road, sq m), the SW3 property has been recently refurbished by the current owner and is therefore ready for immediate occupation.

An exceptional duplex apartment designed by Finchatton comprising approx 6,800 sq ft, benefiting from

a large terraced garden as well as an internal private lift, a double integral garage porter.

Freehold Priceand on 24hr APPlicAtion xx

S H A R E O F F reehol d

P R I C E O N A P P L I C AT I O N

Mallord Street, SW3 A wide and immaculately presented six bedroom family house situated in this quiet and popular street moments from Gilston Road, SW10 the Kings Road. Extending to approximately 4580 sq ft (426 sq m), the property has been recently refurbished by the current owner and is therefore ready for immediate occupation.

An elegant period house in Gilston Road, one of Chelsea most popular addresses, with a wonderful west

facing garden and terrace. Immaculately refurbished by the current owner and extending to approximately Freehold Price on APPlicAtion xx

7,160 sq ft (665 sq m), this wide, low-built house offers plenty of lateral space to accommodate both family living and entertaining.

Freehold

P R I C E O N A P P L I C AT I O N

33 20 2 00 1010 YEARS YEARS PROPERTIES PROPERTIES

22

0 01 13 3 “After “After tenten years, years, wewe areare proud proud toto remain remain the the market market leaders leaders in in our our select select new new developments. developments.

Our Our unrivalled unrivalled experience experience continues continues toto ensure ensure the the best best JO WEBSTER results results forfor our our clients.” clients.”JO WEBSTER As our As our 10-year 10-year anniversary anniversary falls,falls, it isitwith is with pride pride thatthat wewe A DECADE A DECADE OFOF GROWTH GROWTH 1 bedroom 1 bedroom flat flat 2 bedroom 2 bedroom flat flat looklook back back upon upon thethe success success thatthat wewe have have built, built, despite despite KENSINGTON GREEN KENSINGTON GREEN thethe backdrop backdrop of aofvolatile a volatile economy. economy.

A high A high growth, growth, lowlow inflationary inflationary environment environment in the in the firstfirst partpart of the of the decade decade gave gave wayway to recession to recession in in thethe latter latter part. part.

It isItno is no small small achievement achievement then then thatthat over over thatthat period period wewe have have carved carved outout a niche a niche in new in new build build sales, sales, quickly quickly bouncing bouncing back back from from thethe troughs troughs andand outperforming outperforming thethe market market andand thethe economy economy as aaswhole. a whole.

£375,000 £375,000 £690,000 £690,000 £1,100,000 £1,100,000

3 bedroom 3 bedroom penthouse penthouse

151%151% / 10 YEARS / 10 YEARS

£950,000 £950,000

175%175% / 9 YEARS / 9 YEARS

£1,900,000 £1,900,000

271%271% / 9 YEARS / 9 YEARS

£4,080,000 £4,080,000

60% 60% / 6 YEARS / 6 YEARS

£450,000 £450,000

MONTEVETRO MONTEVETRO £280,000 £280,000

115%115% / 9 YEARS / 9 YEARS

£765,000 £765,000 £2,750,000 £2,750,000

£1,650,000 £1,650,000

20% 20% / 4 YEARS / 4 YEARS £3,250,000 £3,250,000

20032003 2004200420052005 20062006 20072007 20082008 20092009 20102010 20112011 20122012 20132013 Source: Source: Jo Webster Jo Webster

Jo Jo Webster Webster Properties Properties – outperforming – outperforming thethe market market The The prime prime London London residential residential property property market market has been has been resilient resilient in the in the faceface of economic of economic turmoil turmoil overover recent recent years, years, retaining retaining its unique its unique appeal appeal among among investors investors andand international international residents residents whowho desire desire the lifestyle the lifestyle offered offered by this by this vibrant vibrant city.city.

Whilst Whilst the average the average priceprice achieved achieved in central in central London London has has risenrisen by 50% by 50% overover the last the last 10 years, 10 years, in comparison, in comparison, as the as demand the demand for new for new build build properties properties has has grown, grown, the average the average priceprice per square per square footfoot achieved achieved by by Jo Webster Jo Webster Properties Properties has has increased increased by an byincredible an incredible 135%.

135%.

OverOver the last the 10 lastyears 10 years the London the London property property market market has remained has remained buoyant. buoyant.

However, However, Jo Webster Jo Webster Properties Properties havehave considerably considerably outperformed outperformed the market, the market, selling selling the majority the majority share share of the of properties the properties in our in select our select developments developments andand consistently consistently achieving achieving the highest the highest priceprice for our for vendors. our vendors.

The The Kensington Kensington Green Green development development has has seenseen dramatic dramatic priceprice increases, increases, withwith values values rocketing rocketing overover the past the past decade, decade, rising rising by an by an average average of 150% of 150% andand sharply sharply outpacing outpacing inflation, inflation, which which has has increased increased by 27% by 27% overover the same the same period. period.

HOW HOW JOJO WEBSTER WEBSTER HAS HAS CONTINUED CONTINUED TOTO PROSPER PROSPER OVER OVER A TURBULENT A TURBULENT 10 10 YEARS YEARS IN IN THE THE ECONOMY ECONOMY 250 250 Greater Greater London London house house prices prices

Inflation Inflation

Average Average £psf £psf achieved achieved

by Joby Webster Jo Webster

Properties Properties

200 200

150 150

100 100

Number Number of JW of sales JW sales went went up by up61%. by 61%.

68%68% of our of our business business in in Kensington Kensington SoldSold 25 properties 25 properties in in Kensington Kensington Green Green nownow equates equates Green.

Green.

Kensington Kensington Green Green alone. alone.to only to only 34%34% of our of total our total sales. sales.

50 50

0

0

2003 2003

60%60% of sales of sales were were in riverside in riverside developments. developments.

US SUBPRIME US SUBPRIME MORTGAGE MORTGAGE CRISIS CRISIS

IRAQIRAQ WARWAR

2004 2004

2005 2005

2006 2006

an entire We We soldsold an entire development development off plan off plan for for developers Native developers Native Land, at Bishops Land, at Bishops Sq. Sq. STOCK STOCK MARKET MARKET CRASH CRASH FTSE AND FTSEDOW AND JONES DOW JONES PLUMMET PLUMMET COLLAPSE COLLAPSE OF LEHMAN OF LEHMAN BROTHERS BROTHERS

2007 2007

2008 2008

We h trant at £1a rivers ri

e

013

ire t

ive Sq.

“Jo Webster “Jo Webster managed managed the impossible: the impossible: finding finding us aus dream a dream home home in the in perfect the perfect location, location, all within all within budget. budget.

I cannot I cannot singsing theirtheir praises praises enough, enough, and and I owe I owe my happiness my happiness to their to their expertise expertise and and professionalism. professionalism.

Thank Thank you you to Charles, to Charles, and and to the to many the many people people working working incredibly incredibly hardhard behind behind the scenes, the scenes, whowho made made it allit all happen.” happen.”

PURCHASER PURCHASER ALBION ALBION RIVERSIDE RIVERSIDE “I engaged “I engaged TomTom at JoatWebster Jo Webster to help to help me find me find an apartment. an apartment.

The The service service waswas impeccable. impeccable.

Not Not onlyonly did Tom did Tom taketake an active an active interest interest in my in specific my specific requirements requirements but but he was he was incredibly incredibly patient patient and and responsive responsive – I never – I never felt like felt anything like anything waswas too too much much trouble trouble and and in the in end the end he found he found me the me perfect the perfect place. place.

Jo Webster Jo Webster are in area in a different different classclass in this in this market. market.

I would I would not not hesitate hesitate to appoint to appoint them them on any on any future future sale sale or purchase.” or purchase.”

PURCHASER PURCHASER ALBION ALBION RIVERSIDE RIVERSIDE OurOur success success at Kensington at Kensington Green Green is highlighted is highlighted by the by sale the sale of a of three-bedroom a three-bedroom penthouse, penthouse, which which soldsold for £2,791 for £2,791 per square per square footfoot in 2012. in 2012.

The The neighbouring neighbouring property, property, almost almost identical identical in size in size andand outlook, outlook, soldsold for £761 for £761 per square per square footfoot in 2003, in 2003, some some 267% 267% less.less.

In the In landmark the landmark riverside riverside development, development, Montevetro, Montevetro, designed designed by by The The Richard Richard Rogers Rogers Partnership, Partnership, the price the price of a of two-bedroom a two-bedroom flat flat has has risenrisen by 115% by 115% overover the past the past ninenine years. years.

Since Since Jo Webster Jo Webster Properties Properties waswas established established in 2003, in 2003, our our portfolio portfolio has has grown grown as we ashave we have carved carved out out a successful a successful andand resilient resilient niche. niche.

Jo Jo Webster Webster Properties Properties is the is only the only agent agent in London in London focused focused purely purely on on selling selling properties properties in prime in prime newnew developments, developments, andand overover the last the last 10 10 years years we have we have builtbuilt an international an international reputation reputation andand in-depth in-depth knowledge knowledge of our of our developments. developments.

08 2008

OneOne of the of the key key shifts shifts in the in the prime prime London London property property market market overover the the last last 10 years 10 years has has been been the the changing changing fortunes fortunes of new of new build build compared compared withwith period period properties. properties.

When When Jo Webster Jo Webster Properties Properties waswas established established a decade a decade ago,ago, newnew build build properties properties salessales at Kensington at Kensington Green Green attracted attracted just just a small a small premium premium overover period period properties properties which which werewere seeing seeing stronger stronger levels levels of price of price appreciation. appreciation.

TheThe tables tables havehave turned turned in more in more recent recent years, years, withwith the the value value of new of new builds builds rising rising more more sharply sharply thanthan period period properties, properties, andand strengthening strengthening theirtheir investment investment casecase as aas result. a result.

Analysis Analysis of a of selection a selection of period of period mansion mansion blocks blocks in W8 in shows W8 shows thatthat average average prices prices per per square square footfoot grew grew strongly strongly in the in the firstfirst partpart of the of the pastpast decade, decade, rising rising by 42% by 42% between between 20032003 andand 2006.

2006.

During During the the same same period, period, salessales values values achieved achieved on sales on sales at Kensington at Kensington Green Green at at Jo Webster Jo Webster increased increased by 27%. by 27%.

Fortunes, Fortunes, however, however, havehave subsequently subsequently been been reversed. reversed.

Since Since 2006, 2006, flatsflats in the in the same same mansion mansion blocks blocks havehave increased increased in value in value by 91%, by 91%, while while average average prices prices achieved achieved

by Jo byWebster Jo Webster havehave risenrisen more more sharply, sharply, by 110%. by 110%.

TheThe trend trend has has alsoalso been been marked marked in other in other schemes schemes thatthat we are we are involved involved in. By in.2004, By 2004, prices prices at Royal at Royal GateGate Kensington Kensington hadhad barely barely moved moved sincesince the development the development waswas builtbuilt in 1999, in 1999, achieving achieving around around £550– £550– £600£600 per per square square foot.foot.

NotNot so today. so today.

TheThe properties properties we have we have soldsold there there in 2013 in 2013 havehave been been bought bought at around at around £1,500 £1,500 per per square square foot.foot.

NEW NEW BUILD BUILD VERSUS VERSUS PERIOD PERIOD PROPERTIES PROPERTIES

A decade A decade of success of success has has seenseen Jo Webster Jo Webster Properties Properties expand expand intointo a a largelarge selection selection of London’s of London’s veryvery bestbest newnew developments. developments.

The The Average Average priceprice paidpaid (£psf(£psf ) for )flats for flats in in Jo Webster Jo Webster salessales increasing increasing appeal appeal of these of these highhigh end,end, secure secure newnew developments developments has has selected selected Victorian Victorian mansion mansion blocks blocks in W8 in W8 at Kensington at Kensington Green, Green, W8 W8 been been highlighted highlighted by the by frequency the frequency withwith which which these these properties properties are are £2,200 £2,200 nownow soldsold off plan. off plan.

Premium Premium residential residential developments developments continue continue to appeal to appeal to both to both UK UK andand overseas overseas investors. investors.

London London offers offers bothboth a secure a secure andand lucrative lucrative investment investment for those for those looking looking to safeguard to safeguard theirtheir liquid liquid assets, assets, or a or a diverse, diverse, multicultural multicultural andand trulytruly international international home home for those for those buyers buyers living living andand working working in the in city. the city.

Looking Looking ahead, ahead, the future the future is very is very promising. promising.

The The economy economy appears appears to have to have turned turned a corner, a corner, withwith the UK theescaping UK escaping a triple-dip a triple-dip recession recession in the in early the early partpart of 2013 of 2013 andand returning returning to growth. to growth.

Confidence Confidence in the in the outlook outlook for the for broader the broader property property market market andand economy economy is growing. is growing.

The The unique unique global global appeal appeal of prime of prime central central London London property property andand the excellent the excellent performance performance tracktrack record record at JoatWebster Jo Webster Properties Properties ensures ensures thatthat our our clients clients stand stand to reap to reap the rewards the rewards in the in months the months andand years years ahead. ahead.

£2,000 £2,000 £1,800 £1,800 £1,600 £1,600 £1,400 £1,400 £1,200 £1,200 £1,000 £1,000 £800£800 £600£600 £400£400

20032003 20042004 20052005 20062006 20072007 20082008 20092009 20102010 20112011 20122012 20132013 Source: LonresLonres /Jo Webster Source: /Jo Webster

Sources: Sources: Greater Greater London London househouse prices:prices: Land Registry Land Registry l Inflation l Inflation figures: figures: ONS ONS l £psfl figures: £psf figures: Jo Webster Jo Webster sales sales l Index: l Index: January January 2003 = 2003 100= 100

INFLATION INFLATION

6% 6%

4% 4%

We We achieved achieved our our highest highest value value transaction transaction to date to date at £12,200,000 at £12,200,000 for afor a riverside riverside penthouse. penthouse.

We We soldsold 25 properties 25 properties in the in the firstfirst 6 months 6 months of the of the year.year.

3% 3% Average £/sq£/sq ft for Average ft for We We soldsold properties properties in 9in 9 The The totaltotal value value of of Kensington Green hadhad Kensington Green different different developments. developments. of our of our sales sales were were properties properties soldsold so far so far risen to £1,414 fromfrom 52%52% risen to £1,414 We also We also achieved achieved a a this year this year is over is over £71m, £71m, overover £2.5m. £2.5m. £720 in 2003. £720 in 2003. record record £2,790/sq £2,790/sq ft within ft within 0% 0% In fact, 72%72% werewere overover £1m.£1m.

We broke We broke the £2,000/sq the £2,000/sq ft ft In fact, record record twice. twice.

SH

MET HERS

The The rise rise of of new new residential residential developments developments

EUROZONE EUROZONE CRISIS CRISIS BAILOUT BAILOUT OF IRELAND OF IRELAND AND GREECE AND GREECE

2009 2009

2010 2010

5% SDLT 5% SDLT FORFOR HOMES HOMES OVER OVER £1 MILLION £1 MILLION INTRODUCED INTRODUCED

2011 2011

averaging averaging overover £10m £10m of of salessales per month. per month.

Kensington Kensington Green.

Green.

7% SDLT 7% SDLT FORFOR HOMES HOMES OVER OVER £2 MILLION £2 MILLION INTRODUCED INTRODUCED

UK ECONOMY UK ECONOMY AVOIDS AVOIDS 2% 2% DOUBLEDIP DOUBLEDIP RECESSION RECESSION

2012 2012

4%4%

2013 2013

49 Beauchamp Place London SW3 1NY 020 7581 3253 lettings@pattersonbowe.co.uk

Montpelier Place, Knightsbridge SW7

An immaculately presented house in the heart of Knightsbridge Village close to Hyde Park.

3 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms (1 ensuite) • Reception room • Study • TV room • Dining room • Kitchen • Cloakroom • Patio Garden • Storage vaults • 1,470 sq ft / 136 sq m • EER band D £1850 per week Unfurnished

020 7581 3253

SOLE AGENT

www.pattersonbowe.co.uk

49 Beauchamp Place London SW3 1NY 020 7581 3253 sales@pattersonbowe.co.uk

Rosary Gardens, South Kensington SW7

A charming first floor balcony flat in an excellent location close to Gloucester Road.

2 bedrooms • Bathroom • Kitchen • Large reception room leading onto a Balcony • 673 sq ft / 63 sq m • EER band D £1,100,000 Share of Freehold

SOLE AGENT

www.pattersonbowe.co.uk

020 7581 3253

Kings Chelsea, 552, King’s Road, SW10 - £3,950,000, Share of Freehold A stunning fifth floor apartment approaching 1,800 sqft with a large roof terrace in this secure and popular gated development.

Hall, Large Reception Room, Kitchen/Breakfast Room, Master Bedroom with en suite Bathroom and walk-in Dressing Room, Two further double Bedrooms, en-suite Bathroom and separate Shower Room, large Roof Terrace, Underground Parking Space, Air cooling, 24 hour Security and Concierge, Beautiful Landscaped Gardens, Tennis Court, Swimming Pool and Gym.

Melbourne House, W8 - £1,250,000, Leasehold plus Share of Freehold A well-proportioned two bedroom apartment on the third floor of this popular, purpose built apartment block on the crest of Campden Hill, a short walk from Kensington Church Street and Notting Hill. The apartment benefits from a 24hr porter, balcony and parking space and is now in need of refurbishment.

Reception Room, Kitchen, Master Bedroom, Guest Bedroom, Family Bathroom, Guest Cloakroom, Private Parking, 24 hour Porter.

30 Warwick Street, London, W1B 5NH

020 7201 6699 joneslanglasalle.co.uk

Coleridge Square, SW10 - Price on Application, Freehold An exceptional family house of 2,727 sqft with 4 metre ceiling heights and direct access to beautiful communal gardens within the secure and highly coveted Kings Chelsea development.

Large Hall, WC, Drawing Room, Dining Room, Kitchen, Master Bedroom with en-suite Bathroom and walk-in Dressing, Four further Bedroom Suites, Private Terrace, Two Underground Parking Spaces, Air Cooling, 24 hour Security and Concierge, Extensive Landscaped Gardens, Tennis Court, Swimming Pool, Gym.

residential@eu.jll.com

Call us on 020 7243 0964 www.fwgapp.co.uk

SALES, LETTINGS & MANAGEMENT A BRIGHT MODERN APARTMENT WITH BALCONY KENSINGTON HEIGHTS, W8 • Wooden • 1

floor

double bedroom

• Fitted

kitchen

• Reception/dining

room

• Bathroom • 24hr

porterage

• Direct

balcony access

• EPC=E

£525 per week Furnished

AN IMPRESSIVE BEAUTIFULLY PRESENTED APARTMENT IN A FANTASTIC LOCATION WYNNSTAY GARDENS, W8 • 4

double bedrooms

• 3

bathrooms, 1 ensuite

• Modern • Double • Great • 24hr

eat-in kitchen

reception room

storage throughout

porterage

• Parking

(FCFS)

• EPC=E

£1,450 per week Unfurnished

A NEW TAILORED PROPERTY SERVICE St George, London’s leading residential property developer, is proud to announce a tailored service designed to meet the specific needs of the discerning property purchaser. This new Mayfair address at 25 Berkeley Square, will showcase the very best of the St George portfolio and provide unique access to some of London’s most sought after riverside apartments and penthouses.

To arrange your exclusive appointment please contact: T: +44 (0) 808 178 2000 25 Berkeley Square, London W1J 6HN E: 25berkeleysquare@stgeorgeplc.com | www.stgeorgeplc.com/25berkeleysquare

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Home House Estates are proud to announce the opening of our new office at 233 Earls Court Road in early October 2013. Having enjoyed huge successes at our Mayfair office since it opened in 2011 and our Westbourne Grove Office in July the directors of Home House Estates have embarked on a rapid expansion programme into the best residential postcodes of London.Our branch will open for business seven days a week, for sales lettings and management.

We pride ourselves on our high levels of customer service and are committed to achieving the best possible results for our clients. We are very internationally focused with a large database of Russian buyers looking to make London their home. We would be delighted to hear from you if you are looking to sell or rent your property this autumn – please call on the numbers below or pop in to see us in October

SPECIALIST IN QUALITY SHORT-TERM LETS

With over 23 years experience we are experts at catering for all your needs. All our properties have been carefully chosen to offer the highest degree of comfort and the ideal central London location.

LUXURIOUS PROPERTIES IN THE ROYAL BOROUGH OF KENSINGTON & CHELSEA A PLACE LIKE HOME Tel: +44 20 7228 4668 Email: enquiries@aplacelikehome.co.uk

www.aplacelikehome.co.uk

We believe that every building is one-of-akind. Every design is created to a unique, specific and personal vision. And every project requires individual understanding, research and planning.

Blending architectural flair with building surveying professionalism. Collaborating with clients, suppliers, engineers and builders.

Together we create original and beautiful bespoke houses. We are experienced and pragmatic, fresh thinking and innovative; we are Pennington Phillips.

Pennington Phillips 16 Spectrum House 32–34 Gordon House Road London NW5 1LP t: 020 7267 1414 f: 020 7267 7878 design@penningtonphillips.co.uk

PROPERTY

Cheyne Walk, s 3 James Whistler built his dream house in Kensington, only to lose it within months because of a disastrous lawsuit. GEMMA TAYLOR takes a look at the artist’s life in the borough

JAMES ABBOT MCNEILL WHISTLER (1834 – 1903) was born in Massachusetts to a railway engineer named Major George Whistler, whose work led to the family living in America, Russia and England.

Educated at the Imperial Academy of Fine Arts, St Petersburg and the École Impériale et Spéciale de Dessin in Paris, Whistler was most famous for a painting of his mother that sparked much controversy due to its anti-Victorian simplicity during a time when sentimentality and flamboyant decoration were in vogue. Critics thought the painting to be a failed “experiment” rather than art.

Whistler was reported to be dandified and vain as well as witty, though his jokes and comments could be caustic and hurtful. He had many acquaintances but it’s difficult to know whether they were friends or enemies because of his personality. Whistler’s neighbour, a Scottish social critic, philosopher and historian named Thomas Carlyle, lived at 24 Cheyne Row and, after seeing the portrait of Whistler’s mother, said he would like a similar one of himself as he liked its simplicity.

So Carlyle sat for his famous portrait at 96 Cheyne Walk from 1872 into the summer of 1873. Whistler usually requested just three sittings but Carlyle could not sit still for very long and many more were required before Carlyle declared Whistler to be “the most absurd creature on the face of the earth”. Several witnesses recounted Carlyle’s attempted stillness juxtaposed with Whistler’s frenetic working movements, with the artist Hugh Cameron recalling that “it was the funniest thing I ever saw. There was Carlyle sitting motionless, like a heathen god or Oriental sage, and Whistler hopping about like a sparrow.”

Years later Whistler wrote the following about his experience of painting Carlyle: “He is a favourite of mine. I like the gentle sadness about him! – perhaps he was even sensitive – and even misunderstood – who knows!”

Living all over Chelsea from 1859 to his death, Whistler knew most of the borough’s intellectual set including playwright Oscar Wilde who spent his greatest years in a tall, red brick Victorian house with balcony and bow front at No. 34 Cheyne Walk. Whistler and Wilde were rivals and Whistler once urged him “to cease masquerading in the streets of my Chelsea” in idiotic clothes. Though differing with Whistler on several points, including his insistence that poetry was a higher form of art than painting, Wilde was generous in his praise and hailed a lecture of Whistler’s a masterpiece:

Whistler once urged rival Oscar Wilde “to cease masquerading in the streets of my Chelsea” in idiotic clothes

“…Not merely for its clever satire and amusing jests… but for the pure and perfect beauty of many of its passages… for that he is indeed one of the very greatest masters of painting, in my opinion. And I may add that in this opinion, Mr Whistler himself entirely concurs.”

Whistler, however, thought Wilde was mocking him and their friendship broke down, with Wilde eventually basing the murdered artist in his novel The Picture of Dorian Gray on Whistler. Whistler eventually lost his home due to a falling out with critic John Ruskin who said that Whistler’s paintings were akin to “throwing a pot of paint”. The feud resulted in a costly libel case, which coupled with the huge debts from building his residence (‘The White House’ in Tite Street, Chelsea, designed with E. W. Godwin, 1877-8), bankrupted him by May 1879 and resulted in an auction of his work, collections, and house. Forced to leave for Venice, he eventually returned in 1880 and died at a new home at 74 Cheyne Walk.

From top/ Neftali / Shutterstock.com, Whistler’s Mother (1871), James Whistler

THE KENSINGTON & CHELSEA MAGAZINE

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Bel-Air Avenue, Pokfulam, Hong Kong

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HK$ 83,000,000

“Despite feeling like you’re out in the countryside, journey times from Bel-Air to Central are only 15 minutes”

A fantastic two bedroom apartment in Hong Kong Island South with amazing sea views

2,395 sq ft (222.5 sq m) Kitchen | Reception room/dining room | Two en suite bedrooms | Maid’s room | Study | Use of club facilities including gym, swimming pool and function rooms

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

09:31

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Argyll Place, W10

Setting new standards for luxury living, be the first to experience Argyll Place’s elegant collection of superbly appointed town and mews houses.

from £1,300,000

New Boutique Development in RBKC Mews Houses from £1,300,000 Townhouses from £2,750,000 Large Townhouse from £3,800,000

Simon Fernandes 020 7225 3866 simon.fernandes@struttandparker.com JSA: Bective Leslie Marsh 020 3667 5581

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Jermyn Street, SW1

Newly constructed behind a beautifully restored Portland stone façade, these two bedroom apartments have been designed by world renowned Eric Parry Architects to a bespoke specification befitting this prestigious London address.

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from ÂŁ3,950,000 125 Leasehold

1,603 sq ft (148.9 sq m) Entrance hall I Reception room I Open-plan kitchen I Dining room I Master bedroom with en suite bathroom I Second bedroom with en suite shower I Guest cloakroom I Porter I EPC rating B

Simon Fernandes 020 7318 4677 simon.fernandes@struttandparker.com JSA: WA Ellis 020 7306 1610

06/09/2013 16:42

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Abbotsbury Close, W14

A beautifully presented three bedroom corner house, over two floors, with off-street parking and a south-facing garden.

ÂŁ3,000,000 Freehold

1,573 sq ft (146.13 sq m) EPC rating D Kensington 020 7938 3666 Drawing room | Kitchen/dining room | Family kensington@struttandparker.com room | Three bedrooms | Bathroom | Shower JSA: Savills 020 7535 3300 room | South-facing garden | Off-street parking kensington@savills.com

Hillgate Place, W8

A charming three bedroom Victorian corner house, occupying 1,414 sq ft, with excellent entertaining space and a lovely terrace.

ÂŁ2,750,000 Freehold

1,414 sq ft (131.4 sq m) EPC rating D Two reception rooms | Kitchen | Three bedrooms | Bathroom | Cloakroom | Terrace | Two vaults

Kensington 020 7938 3666 kensington@struttandparker.com

Smith Terrace, SW3

A spectacular four bedroom family house which has been completely rebuilt behind the original façade.

£6,250,000 Freehold

2,643 sq ft (245 sq m) EPC rating D Drawing room | Kitchen/breakfast room | Dining room/library | Study | Four bedrooms | Four bathrooms | Garden

Bywater Street, SW3

A well-presented three bedroom period house with west-facing garden, located on this quiet pretty street just off the Kings Road.

Chelsea 020 7225 3866 chelsea@struttandparker.com JSA: Savills 020 7581 5234

£3,250,000 Freehold

1,423 sq ft (132.2 sq m) EPC rating D Drawing room | Kitchen/dining room | Three bedrooms | Two bathrooms | Garden

Chelsea 020 7225 3866 chelsea@struttandparker.com

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Ovington Gardens, SW3

ter rr n e i fl t on the secon floor o this erio ui in with i t ccess

ÂŁ2,850,000 Leasehold

1,429 sq ft (132.8 sq m) EPC rating C Drawing room | Kitchen/breakfast room | Three bedrooms | Bathroom | Cloakroom | Direct lift access | Box room | Lift

Chelsea 020 7225 3866 chelsea@struttandparker.com

Launceston Place, W8

An outstanding and beautifully presented three bedroom maisonette which has recently been refurbished and offers fabulous entertaining space.

ÂŁ2,950,000 Leasehold

1,345 sq ft (125 sq m) EPC rating E Open plan kitchen | Dining room | Drawing room | Master bedroom with en suite bathroom | Two further bedrooms | Shower room

Kensington 020 7938 3666 kensington@struttandparker.com

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, s t s r tin Drawing room | Kitchen | Five bedrooms | Four bath/shower rooms | Utility room | Terrace | Access to communal gardens

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kensington@struttandparker.com

Evelyn Gardens, SW7

n e ce tion two e roo secon floor fl t situ te in this we int ine erio ui in with south cin views over the co un r ens

ÂŁ2,500,000 Share of Freehold

, s t s r tin Reception room | Kitchen | Two bedrooms | Two bathrooms | Two balconies | Access to communal gardens (by separate negotiation)

West Chelsea 020 7373 1010 west.chelsea@struttandparker.com

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struttandparker.com

Neville Street, SW7

A magnificent Stucco fronted family house boasting a full basement and loft conversion, six reception rooms and pretty garden.

ÂŁ4,950 per week Unfurnished

3,842 sq ft (356.92 sq m) Drawing room | Dining room | Family room | Playroom/games room | Media room | TV room | Kitchen | Breakfast area | Six bedrooms | Four bathrooms | Kitchenette | Utility room | Garden | EPC rating D

Chelsea Lettings 020 7598 9966 chelsea.lettings@struttandparker.com

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Brunswick Gardens, W8

A beautifully presented five bedroom Victorian stucco fronted family house, with the advantage of a lovely rear garden.

ÂŁ4,250 per week Unfurnished

3,272 sq ft, (303.96 sq m) Drawing room | Sitting room | Kitchen/ family room | Master bedroom with en suite bathroom | Four further bedrooms | Bathroom | Shower room | Two cloakrooms | Garden | Storage vaults | EPC rating D

Kensington Lettings 020 7938 3866 kensington.lettings@struttandparker.com

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facebook.com/struttandparker twitter.com/struttandparker

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Lyall Mews, SW1

A sensational recently rebuilt and fully modernised house over nearly 4,000 sq ft, offering up to five bedrooms and extensive parking.

ÂŁ8,500,000 Freehold

3,841 sq ft (356.8 sq m) Entrance hall | Drawing room | Sitting room | Dining room | Kitchen | Study | Master suite | Four further bedrooms | Four further bathrooms | Staff kitchen | Garage | Mews parking | EPC rating C

Knightsbridge 020 7235 9959

james.gilbert-green@struttandparker.com

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Cadogan Place, SW1

A unique triplex apartment with the original front door and roof terrace in this white stucco fronted terrace overlooking gardens and tennis courts.

ÂŁ12,500,000 Share of Freehold

4,016 sq ft (373.10 sq m) Own front door | Entrance hall | Reception room | Dining room | Kitchen/breakfast room | Master bedroom suite | Two further en suite bedrooms | Study/bedroom four | Roof terrace | Patio | EPC rating D

Knightsbridge 020 7235 9959 charlie.willis@struttandparker.com

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LONDON : 164, NEW BOND STREET | HARRODS | SELFRIDGES 0 20 7514 9170 | www.boucheron.com

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