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CONTENTS 14
48
A Diamond Reign
A Truly English Affair
Richard Brown explores Queen Elizabeth II’s six decades on the throne in her Diamond Jubilee year
Annabel Harrison meets Nick English, the co-founder of dynamic British watch brand Bremont
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A Likely Story
British Fashion Takes Centre Stage
Stephen Milton meets acclaimed British novelist Joanna Trollope to find out her favourite Chelsea haunts
Annabel Harrison takes a closer look at four of the most iconic British fashion brands of the 21st century
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Top of our Game
Ghost Story
Olivia Platt-Hepworth investigates British design, craftsmanship and its most creative industries
Matthew Carter is proud to report that one of the best cars on the road today is made in Britain
CONTENTS
Regulars
april 2012 s issue 002
Editor Annabel Harrison
Editor-in-Chief Lesley Ellwood
Head of Design Hiren Chandarana
Editorial Director Kate Harrison
Contributing Editors Richard Brown, Gabrielle Lane
Client Relationship Director Kate Oxbrow
Editorial Assistant Olivia Sharpe
Head of Finance Elton Hopkins
Production Manager Fiona Fenwick
Managing Director Eren Ellwood
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Editor’s Letter
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Travel the World
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RBKC News
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Antiques & Art
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Collection
Inside Interiors
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Health & Beauty
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Motoring
Drinking & Dining
121
London Living
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Property
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ARCADE Diamonds are forever
Expert advice and exquisite jewels
Timely
fashion
For the stylish modern day gentleman
Cover / Jenny Packham Luna dress, shot by John Lindquist Image courtesy of Jenny Packham 2012 Bridal Collection www.jennypackham.com See page 67
Irresistibly
luxurious The ultimate guide to London’s Mayfair
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From the
EDITOR
“Today, as I mark 60 years as your Queen, I am writing to thank you for the wonderful support and encouragement that you have given to me and Prince Philip over these years and to tell you how deeply moved we have been to receive so many kind messages about the Diamond Jubilee. “In this special year, as I dedicate myself anew to your service, I hope we will all be reminded of the power of togetherness and the convening strength of family, friendship and good neighbourliness, examples of which I have been fortunate to see throughout my reign... I hope also that this Jubilee year will be a time to give thanks for the great advances that have been made since 1952 and to look forward to the future with clear head and warm heart as we join together in our celebrations.” These were the words released and signed by ‘Elizabeth R.’ in February to coincide with the anniversary of her accession to the throne. In honour of this Diamond Jubilee, we pay tribute to Her Majesty the Queen who, in just three years, will take the title of our longest-serving monarch, currently held by Victoria who ruled for 63 years. Richard Brown looks back at the six decades of Elizabeth’s reign (p. 14) and Mike Peake uncovers the regal history of the Royal Borough (p. 19). Worthy too of celebration, when considering the strengths and advances of our great nation, is the outstanding quality of British design in industries across the board. From art to fashion and innovation to interior design, names as diverse as Terence Conran, Jenny Packham, Alexander McQueen, Rolls-Royce and John Logie Baird are known and respected worldwide, representing the highest standards of British craftsmanship and creativity. In a issue dedicated to Great Britain, I must end with words spoken by our own great Queen: “I cannot lead you into battle. I do not give you laws or administer justice but I can do something else. I can give my heart and my devotion to these old islands and to all the peoples of our brotherhood of nations.”
K&
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Editor
Annabel Harrison
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FEATURE
As leading lady, this is a part Elizabeth II has been playing for the last 60 years. RichaRd BRown considers the role of Her Majesty The Queen and her six decade performance
“I declare before you all,” said Princess Elizabeth in a broadcast not dissimilar in syntax and proclamation to the rousing speech given by the first Queen Elizabeth ahead of the Spanish invasion four centuries earlier, “that my whole life, whether it be long or short, shall be devoted to your service and the service of our great imperial family.” This pledge was made on her 21st birthday, 21 April 1947. The next 60 years would prove the promise anything but royal rhetoric. On Victory in Europe day in 1945, Elizabeth and her sister had mingled anonymously with the crowds celebrating in the capital’s streets. “We asked my parents if we could go out and see for ourselves,” she later said in a rare interview. “I remember we were terrified of being recognised... I remember lines of unknown people linking arms and walking down Whitehall, all of us just swept along on a tide of happiness and relief.” Within seven years, the same young girl would be monarch of 16 sovereign states, head of 54 Commonwealth nations and Queen of seven independent Commonwealth countries. If she harboured thoughts of ever taking to the streets in anonymity again, she’d be forced to think twice. Though news of her father’s death in 1952 would have undoubtedly shaken Elizabeth – she had been talking proudly of George VI’s steady recovery from cancer that very morning – it was news not totally unexpected. The year before, as Elizabeth toured Canada on behalf of her increasingly unwell father, her private secretary had carried a draft accession declaration for use if the King were to pass away suddenly. Four months later, while touring Kenya, it would be her husband Phillip who broke the unfortunate news. As the hunter Jim Corbett wrote, “for the first time in the history of the world, a young girl climbed into a tree one day a Princess and… climbed down from the tree next day a Queen.” The coronation would be held on 2 June 1953, a day reckoned by meteorologists to be the likeliest to produce sunshine that summer. Despite the rain, thousands took to the streets for a celebration on a scale unequalled in living memory. Displaying a shrewdness for public relations that would be exemplified throughout her sovereignty, the Queen granted permission for cameras to televise the event, ignoring the advice of the Prime Minister, the Archbishop of Canterbury and Earl Marshall (the royal officeholder responsible for organising State
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funerals and coronations) in doing so. The decision was an astute one; not only did it prove instrumental in boosting the popularity of television as an entertainment medium – the number of television licences in the country doubled to three million in the weeks before the coronation – but it also gave millions, 20 in the United Kingdom, 100 in North America, unprecedented access to an event that had remained behind closed doors throughout history. Promoting Britain’s colourful heritage on a stage that spanned the globe, the coronation made visible, through the popularity of the event alone, the relevance of the crown in the 20th century. By commanding the attention of a nation enjoying the end of post-war austerity, the Queen became an emblem of hope and prosperity in what people hoped would be more peaceful times. For Elizabeth, bound to the duties that befall every sovereign, the immediate years following her coronation became a daisy chain of state dinners, public engagements and audiences with ambassadors, High Commissioners and foreign diplomats. After giving birth to her two youngest children, Prince Andrew in 1960 and Prince Edward in 1964 – pregnancies separated by tours of Cyprus, India, Pakistan, Nepal and Ghana – Elizabeth advanced into a decade in which she would oversee an acceleration in the decolonisation of Africa and the Caribbean and supervise the gaining of independence for more than 20 countries. For the royals, and for royal public relations, the 1960s would be notable for one other thing. In 1969, during the year-long run up to Charles’ investiture as Prince of Wales, the Queen approved a publicity exercise that would grant the public access to the royal family never so candidly presented. The aim of the fly-onthe-wall television series ahead of the investiture – a ceremony with the potential to seem antediluvian by virtue of its ancient rituals and fancy dress nature – was to highlight the royal family as a collection of normal, down-to-earth human beings, and people who shared the same concerns as everybody else. It worked; when the series aired, 75 per cent of the British public could be found glued to a television screen, watching not just the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh going about their daily assignments but, in their children, the next generation of royals too. The Queen had beamed the lives of the ruling few into the lives of millions.
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As the 60s gave way to the 70s, and popular interest swayed the way of the younger royals, the Queen and Duke spent much of the next decade in the comparative shade, bound to continual rounds of royal duties, albeit duties performed in the shadows rather than the spotlight of the media’s immediate glare. This is not to say, however, that the decade would pass without significant footnotes. On a personal level, 1972 saw the Queen and the Duke observe their silver wedding anniversary, while, publically, five years later the nation would celebrate 25 years of having Elizabeth as their monarch. At the other end of the spectrum, the 70s would also mark the elongated separation of Princess Margaret and Lord Snowdon, and the media circus that came with it, and more importantly, the assassination of Lord Mountbatten at the hands of the Real IRA. In the death of this man, Prince Phillip lost an uncle and surrogate father, the Queen a valued adviser and the crown a captain whose behind-the-scenes guidance and counsel was widely viewed as having kept the royal ship steady for years.
sensationalism of the breakup of Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson, as well as Prince Charles and Diana. In an unusually personal Christmas message, and in the wake of a fire that had destroyed parts of Windsor Castle, the Queen famously termed the previous 12 months her annus horribilis. It was a term she could have applied to more than one of the years to follow. Although separated, relations between Charles and Diana would grow increasingly acrimonious through 1993 with transcripts and reports of affairs published in the press throughout January of that year. As the image of Diana as the ‘Princess of the People’ began to manifest itself, the popularity of Elizabeth, who was seen as less than sympathetic to the Princess of Wales, approached a 40-year low. Three years later, and after a divorce requested by the Queen herself, the nation would wake to the news that their favourite Royal had been killed in a car crash. The troubles that had haunted Elizabeth in 1992 would have paled into insignificance in comparison to the scrutiny she’d face in the days to come.
60 years after her 21st birthday promise, it seems little has changed for a Queen who considers the coming of birthdays and anniversaries as inconsequential to the fulfilment of one’s duties While the decade that followed may not have brought much in the way of historic milestones, for the Queen it provided incidents that will be hard to forget. Firstly, with memories of Lord Mountbatten’s death still painfully fresh, the Queen would have feared for her own life when six shots were fired her way during the 1981 Trooping the Colour. Fortunately, the shots were found to be blanks – although no-one would have known that at the time. Secondly, and only a year later, the Queen would awake to find an intruder at the foot of her bed in Buckingham Palace. Despite two calls to the police, assistance wouldn’t arrive for seven minutes – a period the Queen spent talking calmly to the intruder, whom she appeased by offering cigarettes. Elizabeth would have no doubt been thankful when media efforts shifted from exposing the inaptitude of her security team towards the wedding celebrations of Charles and Diana later that year. If there is a decade likely to remain in the mind of the Queen for the wrong reasons, it is the 1990s. In 1991, republican feelings began to rise as exaggerated press estimates of Elizabeth’s personal fortune filtered through the papers, proliferated in 1992 through media
Before the week was out, more than a million bouquets had been left at the gates of Diana’s Kensington Palace home. The mass of flowers outside Kensington Gardens reached a metre and a half deep, while at the family’s estate of Althorp, mourners were asked to keep away because of the threat crowds were causing to public safety. During the unparalleled level of international mourning, the Queen and the Royal family had remained secluded. Only after three days did Elizabeth order the flag at Windsor to be raised at half mast; only after five did she address the nation. “What I say to you now, as your Queen and as a grandmother, I say from my heart,” she began. “I want to pay tribute to Diana myself. She was an exceptional and gifted human being… I admired and respected her – for her energy and commitment to others, and especially for her devotion to her two boys.” Amid intense pressure, the Queen talked as a sovereign first but, more resonantly, as a family member second. Speaking openly about her own emotion and paying respect to Diana and the Spencer family, the broadcast united the grief of the Royals with the grief of the nation. By the end of Diana’s funeral the next day, public animosity had relented.
FEATURE
As the world welcomed the millennium and the Queen ushered the Royal family into the 21st century, the tribulations of the previous decade were largely forgotten. In 2002 the Queen celebrated her Golden Jubilee, an event some sections of the media predicted would be a failure due to a supposed sense of apathy towards the crown. The predictions were proved spectacularly wrong; hundreds of thousands of people participated in street parties and fêtes across the country, while a million people attended each day of the three-day celebration in the capital. Despite the deaths of both her sister and mother at the start of year, Elizabeth journeyed the breadth of the Commonwealth, notching up more than 40,000 air miles over 12 months in tours to Australia, the Caribbean and New Zealand. At the end of the Noughties, aged 84, Elizabeth addressed the United Nations for the second time in her tenure as monarch. Introducing the Queen, UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon described her as “an anchor for our age,” noting that her reign had spanned “from the challenges of the Cold War to the threat of global warming,” from “the Beatles to Beckham” and from “television to Twitter.” However, 60 years after her 21st birthday promise, it seems little has changed for a Queen who considers the coming of birthdays and anniversaries as inconsequential to the fulfilment of one’s duties. “As I mark 60 years as your Queen,” she said in February, “as I dedicate myself anew to your service, I hope we will all be reminded of the power of togetherness and the convening strength of family, friendship and good neighbourliness, examples of which I have been fortunate to see throughout my reign.” Today, 12 years into the 21st century, her popularity rides as high as at any time during her sovereignty. The young lady who captivated her subjects as the real-life Princess at the start of her tenure has retained the respect of a nation during an age of intense media intrusion and economic instability, as ruler of countries that have rejected proposals to become republics, grandmother to two Princes universally adored, and head of a family whose heritage she has made relevant even in an egalitarian world. Back in 1957, in the first televised Royal Christmas broadcast, Elizabeth claimed: “It is inevitable that I should seem a rather remote figure to many of you – a successor to the Kings and Queens of history.” In fact, from that day on, television and a society increasingly interested in the day-to-day lives of its Royal family meant that feelings of isolation between ruler and ruled were not inevitable. The fact that the concept of a modern-day Royal family, enjoying privileges simply by virtue of their birth, is considered not as widely pernicious as it might, owes much to the Queen’s dedicated commitment to bringing the Crown to us, her subjects. Today, more than at any time in history, we take pleasure in the feeling that as much as we belong to the Queen, the Queen belongs to us.
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FEATURE
The
Royal Borough Mike Peake explores the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, from Charles II to her Majesty The Queen, via the reign of Queen victoria and Prince albert, discovering the impressive regal history of this beautiful borough
If you have a soft spot for aardman animations, of Wallace & Gromit fame, you may have stumbled across Flushed Away, the swashbuckling 2006 film about a fiendish – if rather well-spoken – toad and his plans to rid the world of rodents. one memorable scene comes about halfway through when Roddy the mouse, given a delightful home Counties accent by australian actor hugh Jackman, reveals that he’s from Kensington. “The royal borough?!” cries the terrible toad with delight, Roddy suddenly leaping up in his estimations. even in the animal kingdom, it seems the mention of Kensington can’t fail to impress. for more than 100 years, Kensington has proudly been wearing its royal borough status on its sleeve – and why not? It’s an honour enjoyed by only three other places in Britain, and one of them – Greenwich – has only just been added to the list. It was in 1901, 64 years before its official marriage to Chelsea, that Kensington was awarded its royal borough status and the trigger was the death of Queen victoria, who had been born at Kensington Palace and had a soft spot for what she saw as a rather genteel part of London. This little slice of the capital had been enjoying royal favour for centuries, so Kensington took to its grand new title like a duck to water.
Illustration: Mai Osawa
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A definitive ‘royal’ moment came in 1520 when Sir Thomas More, Lord Chancellor to Henry VIII, built a house in Chelsea Historians for the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea say that the names of both Chelsea and Kensington are Anglo-Saxon in origin, the former deriving from Chelchehithe (‘chalk’ and ‘landing place’), while the latter has its origins in the name Chenistun. Some also think that the whole area was once owned by early kings, though there is little archival proof. One definitive ‘royal’ moment came in 1520, when Sir Thomas More, Lord Chancellor to Henry VIII, built a house in Chelsea. It would later be known as Beaufort House and in terms of acreage, it took in practically everything from the frontage of the Thames to the King’s
Road – itself formerly a private road used by Charles II to travel to Kew in the 17th century. Inspired by More, Henry VIII acquired the nearby Chelsea Manor, located in what is now Cheyne Walk. Long since demolished, it became home to both Catherine Parr and Anne of Cleves, and Elizabeth I also spent time there as a child. More royal patronage was conferred upon the area when the Chelsea Royal Hospital for old soldiers was founded in 1682 by King Charles II; Sir Christopher Wren was commissioned to design the building and set to work with plans he had based on Paris’ majestic Les Invalides. Shortly after, Wren
also worked on a grand redesign of Kensington Palace. Musical royalty graced the neighbourhood in 1764, when an eight-year-old Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart gave a piano recital in the Ranelagh Pleasure Gardens, next to the Royal Hospital. Artistic royalty moved in, too, with historians describing 19th century Chelsea in particular as a “sort of Victorian artists’ colony”. In this picturesque enclave, J.M.W. Turner, James McNeill Whistler and John Singer Sargent all lived and worked. Back on firmer royal ground, Queen Victoria’s husband Prince Albert – very much a patron of the arts and sciences – is fondly remembered in numerous landmarks around Cromwell Road and Kensington Gore. The area affectionately known as ‘Albertopolis’ contains a large number of Victorian buildings in which the influential Prince played some part, not least of them the striking Albert Memorial, opened by Queen Victoria in memory of her late husband in 1872. The borough’s regal links are to be found at almost every turn: the Royal Court Theatre in Sloane Square has been around since 1870 and the Royal Albert Hall opened the following year. According to contemporary reports, Queen Victoria was too overcome to speak at its grand opening, prompting her son, Prince Edward, to announce: “The Queen declares this Hall is now open.” Confusingly, the Royal Albert Hall is one of several Kensington landmarks that actually fall within the boundaries of Westminster. Most surprisingly, the lion’s share of Kensington Gardens is another.
FEATURE
In 1899, in what was to be her last public ceremony, Queen Victoria laid the foundation stone for the South Kensington Museum, which was changing its name to the Victoria and Albert Museum. Since then, the V&A has become the world’s largest museum of decorative arts and design, housing more than 4.5 million objects. Today, Kensington and Chelsea’s royal connections are still being forged, as local holders of prestigious Royal Warrants, for example, will attest. These warrants are only issued to suppliers to the Royal Family, and Kensington’s business community boasts more than its fair share. Holders include Sloane Square department store Peter Jones, Rogers De Rin Antiques in Royal Hospital Road, the grocery store Partridges in Sloane Square and Penhaligon’s, the 135-year-old scent emporium on the King’s Road.
RBKC is royal through and through – Catherine Middleton was said to have shaped up for her wedding day at The Harbour Club gym in Chelsea, the same club once used by Princess Diana, while Prince Harry, say the tabloids, likes to party at The Brompton Club on Old Brompton Road as well as Zefi and Boujis in South Kensington. Councillor Julie Mills, Mayor of Kensington and Chelsea, reckons it is the “serene residential feel” of RBKC that sets it apart from other royal boroughs – but we would add to that. We think what sets it apart from the rest are RBKC’s enduring royal credentials. If you wanted to spot Her Majesty trundling past in her Bentley and it was a toss-up between Kensington High Street and the A307 through Kingston-UponThames, we can guess where you’d put your money.
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Innovation NATION
From the steam engine to the sewing machine and the sandwich to Sellotape, our sceptred isle can lay claim to some of history’s most remarkable and revolutionary inventions. RichaRd BRown considers some of the most significant For a Small slab of rock nestled off the coast of Europe, Britain has certainly made a disproportionately large contribution to the narrative of civilisation. over the years, our island’s inhabitants have been responsible for some of history’s most pioneering inventions, discoveries and technical breakthroughs – innovations that have changed the way people live. Think, for example, how different our lives would be without television, radio or the World Wide Web; without the flush toilet, the vacuum cleaner or the electric toaster. or, for that matter, marmite. Back in 1775 – long after Jethro Tull had revolutionised farming with his seed drill, John Harrison had cracked the longitudinal puzzle with his grasshopper escapement clocks, and Isaac Newton had eyed the four Galilean moons of Jupiter through his reflecting telescope – James Wyatt invented something that would transform human existence more than any other creation: the steam engine. redesigning a model originally patented by Thomas Savery a century before, Wyatt’s was the first commercially efficient steam engine – using 75 per cent less coal than previous models. Whereas the rudimentary nature of earlier designs restricted engines to pumping water, Wyatt’s modifications provided a rotary motion that was suitable for driving factory machinery, an innovation that heralded the arrival of the Industrial revolution and a period of economic and social transformation of a scale hitherto unseen.
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Some 26 years later, in 1804, richard Trevithick won a bet when he hauled ten tons of iron over ten miles of track in the first successful steam-driven locomotive and two decades on, George Stephenson connected Yorkshire and Stockton with the world’s inaugural railroad. His ‘rocket’ had already made history when it became the first locomotive to complete a 50-mile trip. at the time, the train was better known for having dampened the mood of the 1830 liverpool to manchester railway opening when it ran over and killed liverpool mP William Huskisson. Inventions like the steam engine and railway locomotive transformed travel and industry, but you don’t have to go as far back as the Industrial revolution for examples of British innovations revolutionising society. Welshman David Hughes’ radio, Scotsman alexander Graham Bell’s telephone and Englishman Joseph Swann’s light bulb were all invented in the latter half of the 19th century, at the same time as Darwin was penning on the origin of Species, Brits were building the world’s first underground railway in london and the modern rules of football, tennis and rugby were being drawn up. The UK’s flare for creativity continued undiminished into the 20th century. In 1925 – after stainless steel, the vacuum cleaner and automated tea makers – Britain gave the world the television. The brainchild of John logie Baird, the first ‘TV’ transmitted only five images per second. as visual broadcasts have to transmit 12 images per second to create the illusion of motion,
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it was hardly an optical spectacular. However, a year later, when Baird demonstrated to the Royal Institution a device that broadcast 12.5 images per second, the first truly working television was born. Although Baird’s scanning disk produced an image with a resolution of only 30 lines, compared to later resolutions of several hundred, the Scotsman’s invention changed mass entertainment and social interaction forever. The 1930s arrived and Brits made roads safer by separating lanes with ‘cat’s eyes’ and enhanced the experience of music by inventing stereo. At the end of the decade, Hitler invaded Poland, World War Two was declared and Britain went invention crazy. In addition to bouncing bombs, ballistic missiles and corner shot rifles, out of the war came the jet engine (the British Gloster Meteor fighter appeared in 1944), radar (a device that enabled the RAF to scramble fighters in response to incoming enemy planes) and... the computer. Although the idea for an automated calculation and programmable machine was dreamt up by Charles Babbage in 1812, it is Maida Vale’s Alan Turing who is recognised as the father of modern computer science. Turing had already helped to theorise the logic of computer algorithms with his Turing Machine when, in the 1940s, the Government enlisted him to join Bletchley Park – Britain’s code breaking headquarters – where he devised several techniques for breaking German ciphers. Post-war, Turing created a design for the earliest stored-program computer, something that in 1999 earned him a place on Time magazine’s 100 most influential people of the 20th century list. A few decades later, as Baird had done with the television and Turing with the computer, fellow Brit Tim Berners-Lee would once again metamorphose society. In 1989, with the aim of creating “a common information space in which we communicate by sharing information”, the Oxford graduate conceived the World Wide Web. Devising a way to communicate information between a Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) client and a server via the Internet, Berners-Lee enabled the sharing of data across computers not linked by hardware. People have been swapping everything from bank details to holiday snaps ever since. Of course, invention isn’t just a product of all things new, but a progression of existing products and designs: the re-invention of standardised ideals – something London-born Kenneth Grange has been doing since 1950. His designs include the British Rail High Speed Train (in use since 1972), the bus shelter, the parking
meter and the Wilkinson Sword razor. Grange not so much invented products to fill a functional need as invented ways in which we picture specific products with only his designs in mind. The modern black cab, for instance, was his creation. The monumental success of Apple in the 21st century can be attributed to the similar endeavours of a single, little-known Essex boy. Born in 1967, Jonathon Ive was just 31 when he revolutionised computer design with the iMac. Later, when given the task of engineering a pocket-sized hard drive that would play thousands of songs, he created the iPod. In 2005, he designed the iPod nano, and in 2007, the iPhone. The recently launched Apple iPad is a direct descendant of Ive’s efforts. For sports fans, being British can sometimes feel synonymous with defeat and disappointment, but if it wasn’t for the creativeness of our ancestors, sports like football, rugby and cricket may never have existed. Nor perhaps would have elastic fabric, greeting cards, matches, sunglasses, carbonated soft drinks, rubber bands, pencils, hovercrafts, lawnmowers, the pocket calculator or Viagra. With history proving our nation’s ability to innovate and design as second to none, next time you have time on your hands, why not put your creative cap on and see what you can come up with? After all, to borrow one of 1,700 words and phrases invented by one William Shakespeare, the world is your oyster.
Apple’s monumental success can be attributed to the endeavours of one little-known Essex boy
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A Likely Story
Image: ©Barker Evans
Acclaimed British novelist and Chelsea resident Joanna Trollope shares with Stephen Milton her favourite local places and why she felt driven to explore the lives of modern-day military wives in her latest novel
RefResHINgly, foR a phone conversation, the eloquent Joanna Trollope has an instant, gracious ease, almost Attenborough-esque, and her good form may well be attributed to the encouraging sales of her newest book and the 17th to be published in the Trollope name: The Soldier’s Wife. “I don’t think anything could put me in a bad mood today,” she offers chirpily. “The Soldier’s Wife has gone to number one in three-days sales. I’m floating in an impervious state of cloud nine.” This is proof enough that the passion remains for the 68-year-old, who has been a literary cornerstone for the best part of 25 years. Her latest effort tells the story of
a decorated Major in the British Army who returns from a six-month tour of Afghanistan, looking to a rosy future back in the arms of his loving family. However, assimilation back into the domestic fold proves tough for a man trained to fight, and cracks in home life soon start to appear. Trollope, who regularly taps into the intricacies of emotional relationships, believes the damage a military existence can inflict on the modern family unit is still being overlooked. “About 20 years ago, I wrote a novel called The Rector’s Wife, about the problems associated with being married to someone else’s vocation, and I wanted to run that concept through again. This time, I felt I needed to choose a profession that had enormous approval from the public, whilst being quite hard for the private lives involved. And of course, the modern army is the perfect answer to that. “Whatever the public feels about the discretionary wars that we’re involved in at the moment, there is universal admiration for our brave boys and girls out in the field. But being married to a modern soldier is a very different matter altogether.” Joanna, Chelsea resident and proud grandmother of two, who boasts sales of more than eight million novels, including Brother and Sister, A Spanish Lover and Daughters-in-Law, gained no-holds-barred access to an active regiment in Northumberland in order to research the dynamic between combatant and family life properly. “I didn’t want this to be an anti-army book. I wanted to lay out the psychologies of different parties and needed to do a lot of research as a result,” she says, admitting she was surprised by the level of frank honesty to which she was privy. “My personal experience where the military is concerned is rather limited... I could tell from the women I interviewed that there’s this devout sense of loyalty, but you can read between the lines that there are big problems. It really seems like there’s a huge pressure on army marriages – a pressure that’s often accompanied by a complete lack of compromise. But that’s the game.”
INTERVIEW
Photograph: The Saatchi Gallery, by Saskia Beresford
Joanna goes on to discuss the disparity between the ideals of her own generation and of those growing up in today’s world: “For women of my generation, that idea of honour and subsuming your life into that of your husband’s was not out of the question. But the young woman now – wives the age of someone like Prince Harry – are much less inclined to say ‘I’ll do whatever you like’. It’s a different time we live in.” A relatively recent returnee from a country life in the Cotswolds, Joanna, who describes herself as “single-ish” since splitting from second husband, dramatist Ian Curteis, is now a West London devotee who appears to have discovered a personal utopia in the leafy surrounds of the King’s Road. Besides, it all helps with the creative inspiration required by authors. “When I first moved to the King’s Road as a teenager, it was an unbelievably exciting place. You had Mary Quant and Café Des Artistes on the Fulham Road, and there was something so young and bohemian and hip about the area. I fell in love with it then and have never quite fallen back out again. I knew I’d return at some point. “I just adore Chelsea. It has energy like no other spot in the UK and what I absolutely adore about the place is that, on weekends, it’s full of families and young children. I love that. It’s home to me, to a wonderful life for me and many others.” Naturally, there seems to be a loyalty towards local establishments too. “I love supporting local businesses, and really do so whenever I can. There are so many great restaurants and cafés about the place; just lovely for people-watching.” Joanna’s enthusiasm, and switched-on author’s
mind, is evident from descriptions peppered with positive adjectives and helpful advice about each favourite eatery or cultural must-visit. For instance, there is “a fabulous café” attached to the Saatchi Gallery on the King’s Road called Gallery Mess – “very good for a quick bite” and “a fantastic Italian deli called Manicomio” which Joanna visits frequently. “If I’m pushing the boat out, I like to go to the top of Sloane Street to Bar Boulud at the Mandarin Oriental and I’m dying for the Wollesley to open beside the Royal Court where I go to the theatre all the time.” For general relaxation, there are a number of spots where Joanna can be found. “We’ve so many cinemas and theatres and Cadogan Hall is great for music, but I do love my walks by the river – a wonderful lungful of air and space. There’s a delightful stroll by the river called the Peace Mile, which I think is at the top of Battersea Park, past that pagoda... And aside from the stunning scenery of the river, I love the view by the Duke of York Square where the Saatchi Gallery is - there’s stunning green space where all the local prep schools venture out to have lunch and play games. It’s a green area with hundreds of little children running around.” Would any part of the city ever entice another move? Joanna doesn’t think so and can’t see herself moving again, whether to another part of London or back to the countryside: “You become settled in a place and when life is good, why disturb that? Chelsea is where I'm at my happiest, and most inspired.” It appears the legacy will live on, and right here in the borough.
“I just adore Chelsea. It has energy like no other spot in the UK. It’s home to a wonderful life for me and many others”
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Joanna’s new novel, The Soldier’s Wife, is published by Transworld, and out now in book and audio book form
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Royal Borough
N EWS The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea shares its latest news, updates and events
A Royal Seal of Approval Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal has been shown how the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, and its partners in the City of Westminster and Hammersmith & Fulham, are tackling young offenders and gang crime. The Princess Royal visited the North Kensington headquarters of the new Tri-borough youth service, which brings the youth offending services into one team. HRH saw young offenders working with the victims of crime as part of the restorative justice process. The Princess is Patron of the Restorative Justice Council which aims to establish communications between those harmed by crime or conflict and those responsible for the harm, while the Tri-borough Youth Offending Team is part of wider plans by the three councils to improve front line services while saving taxpayers £33 million by 2014-15.
Business Boost
Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal met Reparation Officer Grace Fredricks and PCSO Carlos Husbands (pictured) during her tour
Praise for Cadets The dedication, hard work and commitment of Kensington and Chelsea’s Volunteer Police Cadets (VPC) were recognised at an awards ceremony in February. Joining the cadets and their families at the ceremony were the Borough Commander for Kensington and Chelsea, Chief Superintendent Jason Gwillim, the Mayor of the Royal Borough, Cllr Julie Mills, and VPC Coordinator PC Jayne Richardson. Last year saw the cadets represent the borough at a host of local community and high profile events including the Royal Wedding, Trooping the Colour, the London Marathon, the Notting Hill Carnival and charity fund-raising events. They also helped neighbourhood officers to deliver local crime prevention initiatives and played a pivotal role in a number of test purchase operations with Council trading standards officers. They completed an impressive 7,500 hours of voluntary activities during the year. Among the cadets who picked up individual awards were Ali Golchin (best new cadet), Patrick McCleary (award for excellence and commitment for three years, as well as cadets’ cadet of the year) and Alfie Bance (cadet of the year 2011). Team of the year was the Iron Team. The Mayor congratulated the award-winning cadets and commented: “The borough is a better place because of the support they give to our community and the work that they do for charity.”
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Cadets meet every Wednesday from 5.30pm to 8pm at Holland Park School, Airlie Gardens, Campden Hill Road, W8 7AF. For more details, contact PC Jayne Richardson on 020 8246 0667 or jayne.s.richardson@met.police.uk
Two young entrepreneurs are looking forward to trading at the world-famous Portobello Market after winning the Royal Borough’s Market Enterprise Launch Pad 2011 competition. Jo Hawtree, who is starting a men’s fashion label called Gunsmoke & Lavender, and Emily Ellen Dell, who sells bespoke art on canvas under the name Girl on a Swing, have both won £1,000 in start-up funds, six months rent-free stall space on Portobello Market, a support package from the Prince’s Trust and free business insurance. Seven young entrepreneurs were selected to pitch their ideas to a panel of judges, including representatives from the Council, the homeware designer Cath Kidston, Circle Sports, the Prince’s Trust and the John Lyon’s Charity. The project was funded by the John Lyon’s Charity and run by the Council’s Education Partnership Team. Cllr Nick Paget-Brown, Deputy Leader of the Council, said: “Congratulations to Jo and Emily. I know that a stall on the Portobello Market has been a springboard that has helped launch successful businesses in the past.”
Borough Commander Chief Superintendent Jason Gwillim with Volunteer Police Cadet Patrick McCleary
Adoption Education Secretary Michael Gove paid tribute to the work of Tri-borough Executive Director of Children’s Services Andrew Christie during a visit to Kensington’s Isaac Newton Centre on 23 February where he discussed forthcoming reforms to the adoption system.
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Kensington & Chelsea
NEWS Celebrate Easter in the Royal Borough with a weekend of culture: exhibitions, theatre, treasure-hunting and art
Queen Victoria Revealed
Our Fair Lady
As we prepare for the monumental celebration of Her Majesty’s Diamond Jubilee, Kensington Palace looks back at the reign of one of our longest-reigning monarchs, Queen Victoria. The exhibition will examine key events in the Queen’s extraordinary life, such as her first day as monarch at Kensington Palace and her marriage to Prince Albert. Carefully selected exhibits – ranging from her tiny black silk baby shoes and a collection of her toys to her wedding dress (displayed for the first time in a decade), mourning clothing worn following the death of Prince Albert in 1861 and archive footage of her Diamond Jubilee celebrations in 1897 – will also be showcased. The exhibition opens on 26 March and will remain a permanent display at the Palace.
“People, even more than things, have to be restored, renewed, revived, reclaimed and redeemed; never throw out anyone”. So said legendary actress Audrey Hepburn. Hollywood photographer Bob Willoughby was renowned for his iconic photos of Hollywood starlets Marilyn Monroe and Elizabeth Taylor but his favourite muse remains unequivocal: Audrey Kathleen Ruston, best known as Audrey Hepburn. When first called in to shoot the half Belgian, half English beauty after she arrived in Hollywood in 1953, Willoughby’s love affair began: “She took my hand like... well, a princess, and dazzled me with that smile that God designed to melt mortal men’s hearts.” His studies of her long-standing career and private life comprise an unrivalled record of one of the 20th century’s most iconic silver screen stars.
Kensington Palace, W8 From 26 March www.hrp.org.uk
TASCHEN Store London 12 Duke of York Square, SW3 4LY 020 7881 0795, www.taschen.com
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The Greatest of All Art Forms The Royal Court is renowned for finding new talent and its latest production, Vera Vera Vera, shines a light on writer Hayley Squires’ first submission to the theatre. The play is blackly comic: a boy comes home dead from the war and his family squabble over who he was. Director Jo McInnes most recently directed Red Bud at the Royal Court. Royal Court Theatre, SW1X, 22 March – 14 April, www.royalcourttheatre.com
RHS Chelsea Flower Show Queen Victoria by Sully 404799 © Royal Collection
ut Ostrich ns, Institute for Plastination, Heidelberg Germany
Green-fingered fanatics, ensure your gardens are immaculate in time for the internationally-acclaimed horticultural show. Soon returning to the 11-acre grounds at the Royal Hospital this May, the event invites visitors to explore a wide range of spectacular gardens and floral exhibits; this year’s show sees a new zone dedicated to the latest in garden technology and innovation. It’s strictly advancebooking only, with no admission on the gate and the first two days are reserved for RHS members. Tickets are still available but extremely limited so make sure to purchase yours before they sell out. The Royal Hospital, Chelsea, SW3 4SL 22 – 26 May www.rhs.org.uk
Chelsea Treasure Hunt
The Chelsea district has long been regarded as one of London’s most exclusive, with royals, artists and many famous names making it their home. Starting on the King’s Road, the Chelsea Treasure Hunt commences its adventure by heading south through some of the grandest streets in town to the river frontage at Cheyne Walk – formerly owned by the likes of Rossetti, George Eliot and, more recently, Mick Jagger. Finishing at South Kensington tube station after approximately two to three hours, excluding refreshment stops, you will experience history, culture and beautiful residences en route – all great fun to explore this Easter on a family day out. Chelsea Treasure Hunt Sunday 22 April 2012 www.treasuredays.com
International Antiquarian Book Fair “People say that life is the thing but I prefer reading”, commented Logan Pearsell Smith. Returning this year for what promises to be an even bigger and better event, the 55th London International Antiquarian Book Fair is a haven for book lovers. Taking place in Olympia in the Grand Hall, the event attracts more than 160 booksellers from around the globe, selling illustrated books, manuscripts, fine bindings, maps, prints, photography and associated ephemera, from the 15th century to the present day. Special guided tours will allow novices to receive an expert insight into book collecting. Bookbinding and calligraphy demonstrations are also available for those of you fascinated by the history of printing. Olympia Grand Hall, W14 Thursday 24 May – Saturday 26 May www.olympiabookfair.com
War Horse: Fact & Fiction
Following the acclaimed stage production by the National Theatre and the Spielberg-directed film released this year, the National Army Museum has gone even further with its own tribute to the World War One horses that served and died. Exploring the hugely popular Michael Morpurgo novel, alongside touching real-life stories of the war horses, this interactive exhibition is one for all the family to enjoy. Running since October, the exhibit will be finishing in August so do visit before it ends. Open daily between 10am and 5.30pm, all visitors receive free entry. National Army Museum, Exhibition Gallery 22 October 2011 – August 2012 www.nam.ac.uk
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Animals Inside Out The latest exhibition at the Natural History Museum comes courtesy of the team behind Gunther von Hagens’s Body Worlds. Visitors will have a rare opportunity to examine the biology, anatomy and physiology of around 100 plastinates and capillary specimens – including giraffes and ostriches – on display. Learn how anatomy is of crucial scientific value in finding out more about the evolution of animals. Natural History Museum, SW7 6 April – 16 September www.nhm.ac.uk Animal Inside Out: Ostrich © Gunther von Hagens, Institute for Plastination, Heidelberg Germany www.bodyworlds.com
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Knightsbridge
NEWS Treat yourself on the Easter weekend with Russian dining, exquisite music and a champagne bubble bath
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Bath of Bubbles The Cadogan Hotel is inviting guests to submerge themselves in a bath filled with 84 litres of champagne, surely the pinnacle of decadent luxury. Part of its 125th anniversary celebrations, and requiring the contents of 120 bottles, the extravagant dip varies in price but each package includes a bottle of Dom Perignon Vintage (£195) for drinking, served with chocolate-covered strawberries by your own bath butler. The least pricey option is to bathe in Louis de Custine Brut at £4,000, but if you prefer another vintage, Perrier Jouët Grand Brut, Perrier Jouët ‘Blason’ Rosé, and Dom Pérignon Vintage baths cost £6,000, £8,000 or £25,000 respectively. Book this lavish treat early to avoid disappointment. The Cadogan Hotel, 75 Sloane Street, SW1X 9SG 020 7235 7141; www.cadogan.com
House Price Rise
Revolutionary Dining Following the success of flagship restaurants in St Petersburg, Moscow and New York, Russian restaurant MariVanna has now taken up residency on the doorstep of beautiful Hyde Park. Laden with extraordinary attention to detail, the restaurant immediately transports each guest into an archetypal Ruski home adorned with tchotchke (trinkets), including the iconic stacking dolls, bookshelves filled with Russian literature and elaborate chandeliers hung far and wide. This culinary gem is a perfect, alternative treat for celebrating the Easter weekend. MariVanna, 116 Knightsbridge, Wellington Court, SW1 020 7225 3122, www.marivanna.co.uk
Some of the area’s most prestigious addresses, such as One Hyde Park, are seeing soaring prices as would-be buyers clamour to pour money into the capital’s housing market. The surge in demand from the Middle East and wealthy buyers fleeing the eurozone – coupled with a lack of sellers and the fall of the pound – pushed up prices in Knightsbridge, Chelsea and Belgravia by 17 per cent last year. Estate agent Winkworth said that 41 per cent of all the homes sold in the area last year topped £2 million, up from 33 per cent in 2010. Chief executive Dominic Agace said there had been “encouraging signs” of more properties coming onto the market across London so far in 2012: “We expect to see prices continuing to move upwards as buyers look to this part of the city as a safe haven for investment.”
Classical Treat Tantalise your musical senses this month with a magical performance at Cadogan Hall. Fresh from performing the score for Academy Award winning film The Artist, the Brussels Philharmonic Orchestra is making its musical debut with a scintillating programme including Brahms’ Tragic Overture and Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 6, Pathetique, guided by the baton of chief conductor and musical director Michel Tabachnik. The orchestra is joined by young Russian violinist Sasha Sitkovetsky to perform Mendelssohn’s sunny Violin Concerto – his final orchestral work and a piece which perfectly unites melody and orchestration, structure and feeling. This is not to be missed. Cadogan Hall, 5 Sloane Terrace, SW1X 9DQ 2 April, 7.30-9.30pm, tickets from £18 020 7730 4500; www.cadoganhall.com
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Summer Brides Tucked away in a quiet Mews is Alice Temperley’s intimate boutique. Providing impeccable service, as you would expect from one of the Duchess of Cambridge’s favourite designers, the bridal showroom housed within is by appointment only, where soon-to-be-brides are given a consultation while sipping a glass of champagne. As well as the extensive showroom of ready-to-wear creations in the signature styles – silk georgette, hand-sewn pearls and sequins, and embroidery – Temperley also offers a fully bespoke service, giving you the rare and wonderful opportunity to work with the designer herself to design your dream gown. Be mindful that Saturday appointments get filled up so make sure to book in advance.
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Temperley London, 2-10 Colville Mews, Lonsdale Road, W11 2DA 020 7229 7957 www.temperleylondon.com
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The Food of Love The Kensington and Chelsea Music Society is preparing to delight audiences once again this April with its latest concert. South African baritone Njabullo Madlala will be returning to join mezzo soprano Kitty Whatley, both the most recent winners of the Kathleen Ferrier award, and Simon Lepper, as accompanist, to perform pieces by Schubert, Schumann, Debussy, Vaughan Williams and Sir Arthur Somervell. Tickets cost £18, which includes a glass of wine or fruit juice during the interval. This concert is a wonderful way to spend a spring evening. Leighton House, 12 Holland Park Road, W14 17 April For more information, call 020 7602 3316 or visit www.leightonhouse.co.uk
A Royal Commemoration To celebrate the Queen’s forthcoming Diamond Jubilee, the Museum of Brands, Packaging & Advertising is holding an exhibition showcasing souvenirs and commemorative objects produced to mark Royal Jubilees past and present, including mementoes of Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee of 1897, George V’s Silver Jubilee of 1935 and Queen Elizabeth II’s Silver Jubilee of 1977, as well as the newly released souvenirs for this year’s Diamond Jubilee. A recent addition to Portobello, the museum features more than 12,000 original items from the Robert Opie Collection. With a whole kaleidoscope of images on display, visitors to the museum can also discover how well-loved brands evolved over time. Museum of Brands, 2 Colville Mews Lonsdale Road, W11 2AR 3 April – 31 August www.museumofbrands.com
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Antiques &
ar t How better to appreciate the finer things in life than by spending time admiring art, asks Carol Cordrey?
a room with a Difference Anybody who has frequented hotels on a regular basis will find the work of Anja Niemi highly compelling. This Norwegian artist uses the medium of photography to present innovative perspectives on interiors and our relationship with them but this new body of work focuses on how we respond to hotel rooms in particular. On the one hand, throughout our occupancy of those rooms, we treat them like temporary, impersonal spaces; on the other, we settle into them and make them feel like our private zones, underlined by the desire to place the “Do not disturb” sign on the doors.
For this exhibition, Niemi undertook short-term visits to a selection of hotel rooms and photographed herself within them in different guises and displaying a wide range of, at times disturbing, body language. As a result, we get a thought-provoking, throughthe-keyhole look at how different female characters may live out their lives behind the “Do not disturb” signs. Anja Niemi: Do Not Disturb 27 March – 21 April 13A Park Walk, Chelsea, SW10 OAJ www.thelittleblackgallery.com
a surge of Love and Friendship in Notting hill The new collection of sculptures and signed, limited edition prints by Doug Hyde is not likely to remain in the Whitewall Gallery for very long as they represent the latest body of work by the UK’s most popular living artist. Created in his idiosyncratic, naïve style, Hyde’s paintings and sculptures take the form of lovable, cuddly characters that look as if they have leapt off the pages of modernday cartoons. Part of their appeal is that each character is inspired by the artist’s pet dog, family and other people that feature in his daily life so the public instantly relates to the figures and narratives he produces. The theme of Hyde’s new work is love and friendship injected with comedy so these are likely to be the most popular sculptures and pictures he has produced to date.
Hyde: Fancy A Spin
Doug Hyde: Love and Friendship Throughout April 100 Westbourne Grove, Notting Hill, W2 5RU www.whitewallgalleries.com
Q&A with Matthew travers of Piano Nobile Fine art about thomas Newbolt Q: This exhibition features very emotive, female figures; what is the artist’s rationale for painting them? A: These figures are just as much abstract as they are figurative; they are about painting feelings and emotions. The use of the feminine expression and body language is a passageway to achieving these feelings.
Q: Does he paint them from life? A: No. Thomas applies pure colors of paint straight from the tube on to the canvas, mixing and feeling his way to a point of figuration. These pictures should not be seen
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as portraits because it is not about who they are but what they feel.
Q: Newbolt’s heads have wonderfully dramatic, hypnotic eyes; is that because he sees them as the windows to the soul? A: You could say that. The big eyes always seem to make the works complete; it is part of the feeling that Thomas strives for, as he says “the paintings don’t work for me if the eyes are small. They have to be like caverns”. The eyes play a large part in making his work so arresting.
Q: Such painterly images look almost sculpted; is
his style influenced by Freud or Auerbach? A: Thomas is a new breed of figurative artist. Unlike Freud he does not paint from life, but feverishly, in fading daylight until darkness forces him to stop. That is comparable to the condition Frank Auerbach reaches so that an image is fresh and unhackneyed. The same intensity, achieved by different means, can be found in the work of Freud, Newbolt and, of course, Auerbach. Finding Faces in the Dark 28 March – 28 April 129 Portland Rd, Notting Hill, W11 4WL www.piano-nobile.com
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Art’s most wanted Vintage Posters CAROL CORDREY deems these posters perfectly timed to trumpet our London 2012 Olympic Games
Interest in poster art is booming but despite the rise in prices over the past decade, it is still an excellent way to start an art collection. On top of that, poster art provides eye-catching conversation starters for any environment and this is most certainly true of this month’s upcoming sale at Christie’s South Kensington. It will include iconic Olympic posters which could not be more topical as we count down the days until the opening ceremony of London 2012. Of special interest to buyers will be the poster dating from London’s 1948 Olympic Games, created by Walter Hertz and featuring the classical figure of a discus thrower placed against the background of the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben.
Military Memorabilia
Background: Rare group of 12 Honorary Awards and Medals given to Field Marshal Lord Fitzroy Somerset, 1st Baron Raglan (1788-1855)
Item: Field Marshal’s Baton from Her Majesty Alexandrina Victoria;
Expected value (items): £1,000 - £1,500 Expected value (auction): £600,000 - £800,000 No. of Lots: 150 Place: Christie’s South Kensington 85 Old Brompton Road, SW7 3LD
Date: 18 April www.christies.com
Simply Special
Item: Costume design for Le Magicien Chinois in the ballet Parade
Gold Medal for Fuentes De Onor, with two clasps for Badajoz and Salamanca
Artist: Pablo Picasso
Price: £250,000 - £350,000 for the group, sold as one lot
Price: £18,000 - £22,000
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Date: 4 April
Dates: 4 April
Location: Christie’s, South Kensington
Location: Bonhams, Knightsbridge
www.christies.com
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Top of our Game:
Design
OlIvIa Platt-HePwOrtH investigates why 2012 is shaping up to be a very impressive year for the British design and craftsmanship industries
There are many reasons to applaud British design this year. Though the United Kingdom has been a hothouse for design and craftsmanship for decades, 2012 is the year that both the rich heritage and the bright future of our nation will be celebrated side-by-side. a spate of upcoming events, launches and exhibitions will be leading this celebration, including British Design 1948-2012: Innovation in the Modern Age at the V&a museum over the summer, which will glorify more than 60 years of this great country’s love affair with design. “Britain has long been a pioneer of new ideas and processes, particularly in the areas of engineering, industrial design and new technologies,” says Ghislaine Wood, a specialist in 20th century design and co-curator of the exhibition at the V&a. “From the introduction of new spinning and weaving machines in the 1780s, through the construction of ships and bridges in the 1840s, to the development of computer codes after the War and the invention of the world wide web in the 1980s, inventiveness has always characterised British design. “however, over the last 40 years Britain’s design culture has undergone radical change. It has moved away from manufacturing towards the provision
of innovative financial, retail and creative services. British designers have frequently stood at the forefront of change and created some of the most iconic objects, technologies and buildings of the last 60 years,” says Wood. This V&a exhibition will serve to highlight the best of contemporary British design, covering 64 years and helpfully bookended by the last Olympic Games, held in London in 1948, and the present year. The museum has brought together more than 300 objects, including clothing, to demonstrate how design has changed significantly over this period in time. It becomes clear how Britain’s designers were influenced by economics, politics and cultural events and, to illustrate the shifts in society and consequently in design the museum has split the exhibition into three distinct sections: tradition and modernity; subversion; and innovation and creativity. It also seems clear that the move away from the disposable culture, towards authenticity by means of crafts and hand-making products, looks set to continue. Today’s designers are following the country’s legacy of quality craftsmanship by the meticulous manufacture of desirable objects and attire. a common thread that links many of the designs long-listed for this
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year’s Design of the Year awards is serious attention to quality. “The longlist can be described as the barometer of current thinking and appreciation in designs,” explains Michael Czerwinski, the public programmes manager of Design Museum London. “We asked 100 industry experts to submit what they consider to be the year’s most successful designs. Many of the works emphasise outstanding quality. There is a real shift away from mass consumption and the current trend is to do something properly, using the best materials available and superior manufacturing,” he says. Since their launch five years ago, the Design of the Year awards have become highly esteemed in the industry. The awards comprise nominations across seven categories, including architecture, digital, fashion, furniture, graphics, product and transport. The list spans various fields, from the Duchess of Cambridge’s wedding dress, designed by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen, to the world’s most advanced wheelchair, designed by I Imagine. Entitled Carbon Black, the wheelchair allows users greater accessibility due to its light weight and sturdy carbon structure, and each of the Carbon Black wheelchairs will be made on a bespoke basis. It’s not just fashion and products being designed this way; other disciplines of design, such as furniture, are also following the trend and a company that is experiencing increasing interest in its handmade furniture is Soane Britain. Founded by Lulu Lytle and Christopher Hodsoll, the company produces 500 exquisitely made re-interpretations of 18th, 19th and 20th century originals alongside new designs. Soane Britain works with craftsmen all over the country, utilising traditional skills such as saddlery, cabinet making, iron forging, glass blowing and bronze casting to create high-end furniture for homes, restaurants and hotels. “Soane’s was founded on the principle of British production, manufacturing and workshops across a variety of disciplines to create objects such as leather table tops to the tanning and dyeing of feathers to cabinet making,” says co-owner Lulu Lytle. “We collaborate with some of the country’s most highly skilled craftsmen because of the high quality that they achieve,” says Lytle. “Last
year we invested in the last rattan workshop in England and are working with the last three weavers to ensure the legacy of the skill for the country,” she adds. The company recently partnered with Claridge’s Hotel to realise the installation of 20 of its handmade brown leather Crillon chairs for its guestrooms. One of the company’s most popular designs, the parts are made in different workshops across the country, before the chair is carefully assembled. The result is an enduringly fashionable and functional piece. The V&A exhibition will also look at the prevailing shift in design in the 1950s and 60s. The groundswell of creativity came from radical young people, not from the traditional, established institutions: it was during this time that a new generation of designers sought to challenge common values and beliefs with forward thinking works. This included the launch of the Mini by the British Motor Corporation and the opening of stores such as Terence Conran’s Habitat and Barbara Hulanicki’s Biba, while the creation of the Polyprop chair by Robin Dayin 1963 was another design innovation of the Swinging Sixties. While design was changing rapidly, fashion was going through several fundamental changes over the decades. “The influence of Britain’s art schools has been huge across the creative industries and design sector, and particularly in the area of fashion design”, says Wood. “British fashion designers, many of them graduates of art schools, have come to define a new creativity and technical brilliance. Alexander McQueen, John Galliano and Hussein Chalayan have transformed the way that we understand fashion. There is also a deeply subversive spirit in British fashion, which can be linked back to the creativity of punk. Westwood has undoubtedly been immensely influential.” Though society may have changed over the years, one thing has remained constant: creativity is paramount to British design.
Britain’s art schools have hugely influenced the creative industries and design sector, particularly in the area of fashion design
Overleaf Jaguar E-Type, 1961 © Jaguar Heritage
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The Design Museum London’s Design of the Year exhibition is on until 4 July and British Design 1948-2012: Innovation in the Modern Age is taking place at the Victoria & Albert Museum from 31 March
Above, left to right Opus Mixtum Dress Autumn / Winter 2011 Evening gown designed by Alexander McQueen, A-W 2009 Francois Guillot/AFP/Getty Images Carbon Black Wheelchair I-Imagine LN-CC Forest Neil Bedford
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ART
Art in the Spotlight 20Th CenTuRy BRiTish ART Rachel hiddeRley, Christie’s International specialist and Director of 20th Century British art, shares her top tips on collecting British art
There has never been a better time to collect 20th century British and Irish art; what other field is so accessible to its audience, so all-encompassing in its subject matter, and yet still so available and affordable? at the higher end, the diversity of the field makes this category appealing to collectors, both established and new to the game. a beautifully crafted drawing by a lesser-known artist can be acquired for hundreds, or one can compete at the highest level for a masterwork, such as stanley spencer’s portrait of his first wife, hilda, being offered at Christie’s May sale, estimated at £100,000-150,000. also being offered is spencer’s stunning landscape The Bridle Path, Cookham. The full range of spencer’s power can be seen at The stanley spencer Gallery in Cookham, open by appointment. a vigorous and exceptionally rare oil painting by artist of the moment, edward Burra will also appear in the May sale, estimated at £500,000-800,000. This work is a powerful satire to rival any of the output of the more acclaimed artists of any international movement of the 20th century. If it’s modern sculpture that you admire, you cannot fail to appreciate the figurative depictions of humans and animals by Dame elisabeth Frink. her Rolling Horse is estimated at £120,000-180,000 and if you want to experience her work on the grander scale, go to Chatsworth house, salisbury or Guildford cathedrals, visit The Chris Ingram Collection which is housed at The Lightbox in Woking, another unknown gem, or wander along Dover street in Piccadilly to spot her Horse and Rider sculpture. If you want to tap into the most collectable and prolific artist in this category, you should not miss out on a series of drawings by L.s. Lowry being offered from a private collector in May. You may be tempted by estimates between £1,500 and £15,000, even if you also aspire to own one of the important oil paintings, such as Home from the Pub at £300,000-500,000, or Going to the Match at £500,000-800,000. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a cutting edge, modern abstract that takes up plenty of wall space, choose from artists such as Terry Frost, Gillian ayres or John hoyland, each one still painting until a few years ago; you’ll still have change from £10,000. every British modern movement, from Camden Town Group through vorticism, figurative, abstraction and 60s Op and Pop art, has current stars, and there are still very accessible lower valued gems to sift through or discover. This field represents every opportunity and many collecting value levels and we are spoilt by a vast network of galleries, museums and institutions representing the category in informative and well-curated displays and affording an enjoyable, instructive and fascinating study of the best of British. 22 March, 20th Century British Art; Christie’s South Kensington, 85 Old Brompton Road, SW7 3LD 23 and 24 May, 20th Century British & Irish Art; Christie’s London, 8 King Street, St James’s, SW1Y 6QT 020 7930 6074 (South Kensington) / 020 7839 9060 (King Street); www.christies.com
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Left to right L.S. Lowry Going to the Match 20th Century British & Irish Art Evening Sale, 23 May Estimate: £500,000-800,000 Sir Stanley Spencer R.A. (1891-1959) The Bridle Path, Cookham 20th Century British & Irish Art Evening Sale, 23 May Estimate: £400,000-600,000
the KENSINGTON & CHELSEA magazine
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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SYMBOLS OF POWER:
The Crown Jewels Priceless emblems of the British monarchy, the Crown Jewels are on show in a spectacular new display celebrating the Diamond Jubilee
The Duke of Newcastle spoke these words of advice to Charles II before his coronation: “Ceremony though it is nothing in itself, yet it doth everything – for what is a king, more than a subject, but for ceremony, and order, when that fails him he is ruined... therefore... when you appear, to show yourself gloriously, to your people...” from 29 March, the Crown Jewels will be displayed at the Tower of London in a glorious new exhibition. featuring evocative graphics, music and film archives, the highlight will surely be newly-restored footage of Queen elizabeth II’s own coronation. Visitors will discover the importance of the Crown Jewels to the British Monarchy and their historic association with the coronations of english kings and queens over the centuries.
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Among the ‘Regalia’ on display will be the St. edwards’ crown. Made of gold and decorated with precious and semiprecious stones, including sapphires, tourmalines, amethysts, topazes and citrines, it was last worn by Queen elizabeth II on 2 June 1953 during her coronation. other astonishing pieces include the world-famous Imperial State Crown, housing 868 diamonds, one of which is the famous Cullinan II diamond, and the Crown of the Queen Mother, featuring the magnificent 105-carat koh-i-Noor diamond, as well as the royal sceptres, swords, orbs, rings, bracelets, and ceremonial robes. www.hrp.org.uk/toweroflondon
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We prefer not to be measured by dimensions. Unless it’s a new dimension of accuracy.
No fewer than four exceptional mechanisms enhance the precision of the RICHARD LANGE TOURBILLON “Pour le Mérite”: the tiny fusée-and-chain transmission, the delicate tourbillon, the ultra-thin Lange balance spring, and – not least – the patented stop-seconds device for the tourbillon which makes it possible to
set the watch with one-second accuracy in the first place. Never before has an A. Lange & Söhne watch been endowed with so many complications that simultaneously enhance its rate accuracy, settability, and readability. And so, this remarkable timepiece truly deserves the honorary attribute “Pour le Mérite”.
Arije 165, Sloane Street London • George Pragnell 5 and 6, Wood Street, Stratford-upon-Avon Hamilton & Inches 87, George Street, Edinburgh • Harrods 87–135 Brompton Road, Knightsbridge, London Watches of Switzerland 16, New Bond Street, London • Wempe 43-44, New Bond Street, London Lange Uhren GmbH • Tel. +34 91 454 89 82 • www.lange-soehne.com
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World of
watches For treasured timepieces, horological heirlooms and modern masterpieces, watch this space...
One tO watch
expert Opinion
Every month, we choose our favourite watch from the newest models. April’s watch of the month comes courtesy of Rolex
Robin Swithinbank, editor of Calibre watch magazine, talks about the state of the british watch industry what have been the biggest changes in the industry in the last 20 years? The watch industry has enjoyed a period of unprecedented growth, but the British have been relatively slow to pick up on it. We’re starting to see signs that the illustrious history of British watchmaking may yet enjoy a 21st century revival, with a number of promising new brands popping up. There’s great kudos all over the world in being a British luxury brand, so native watch companies have a great platform on which to build. Expect to see the word ‘London’ appearing on more watch dials in the future.
with its numerous innovative watchmaking features, the Yacht-Master II model is the epitome of Rolex’s creative force and technology
Yacht Master II, £16,770, Rolex Available at Harrods
home-grown talent Switzerland may be the undisputed home of the fine watchmaking industry but we’d like to pay homage to a brand whose roots lie a little closer to home. Inspired by the endeavours of the London clockmaker George Graham, a man responsible for the master clock at Greenwich Royal Observatory which defined time for most of the 18th century, Graham-London has been flying the flag for modern British watchmaking since it regrouped in 1995.
Fitting for a firm whose namesake gave us the chronograph, dead-beat cylinder escapement and the mercury pendulum, Graham-London’s Swordfish Booster Iris (as pictured below) is as much an engineering masterpiece as a product to tell the time. With a steel case formed through plasma reactions in a vacuum, and a nanometre-scale coating developed exclusively for Graham, the watch’s mesmerising surface refracts light to change colour at every angle.
who are currently the most important brands in british watchmaking? For high-end watchmaking, the name Roger Smith is respected and revered by collectors all over the world. Smith was mentored by the brilliant late George Daniels and plies his trade from an atelier on the Isle of Man. He produces fewer than 30 pieces a year, some unique and made to order, hand-crafting every part and creating watches that are as horologically pure as anything made anywhere else in the industry. which british brand do you tip for imminent success? Schofield. Founder Giles Ellis only launched his first watch at SalonQP last November but he generated the kind of buzz big brands set aside Olympic-sized budgets to achieve. Ellis is a quality obsessive and his 2011 allocation of watches sold out in a flash. Baited breath for what he’ll do this year and beyond.
the KENSINGTON & CHELSEA magazine
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a truly
English affair
AnnAbel HArrison meets Nick English, one half of the dynamic English brother pairing and co-founder of British watch brand Bremont
ThE ENgiNE purrs, revs and roars into action and before i know it, i’m soaring through the air, 1,000 feet above the English countryside (Epping Forest and Chelmsford, to be exact). i’m not in a Boeing 747 or an Airbus 380, though – my preferred, and standard, method of airborne travel but one passenger of two in a tiny, toy plane which is, i am told, an rV4. initial trepidation at travelling in what, quite frankly, has less interior space than a Mini is swiftly overtaken with the thrill of feeling like a character in Top Gun (although more like goose than Maverick). The pilot expertly steers us to the optimum cruising height and asks me, casually, over the headset if i’d like to drive for a bit. After a moment’s hesitation, i take over control and experience the sheer joy of feeling the plane dip and tilt exactly as i command, before the pilot resumes control to flip us over into a few, 360º barrel rolls.
This is but a glimpse into the life of a Bremont brother – Nick, this time round (although i had met the equally charming giles at salonQp in November). i’d like to say that i was composed enough to conduct my interview with Nick whilst airborne but unfortunately the noise was prohibitive and instead we chatted in the cosy squadron at North Weald Airfield. From their names to their demeanour, via their watch brand and personal passions, the English brothers are British through and through. Bremont has a story to tell too, and a surprisingly young one at that; its watches are gracing the manly, homegrown wrists of hugh Laurie, Liam Neeson and Orlando Bloom, just ten years after the company’s journey began, and five years after their watches were actually being sold. Nick explains that from the offset the brothers wanted to make beautifully
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crafted and engineered pilots’ watches of such a high quality that “you could not find a better made watch in that [£3,000 - 4,000] price range.” A love of flying, watches and all things mechanical has been in the English blood for generations, inherited by Nick and Giles from their late father Euan, who died in 1995 when the vintage aircraft he was flying crashed. Nick deems this “the tipping point in life, when you have to think about what you really want to do.” This tragic accident was followed by Nick and Giles crashlanding on French soil because of a rough-running engine and bad weather. In a serendipitous turn of events, the farmer who offered them refuge from the authorities and a bed for the night was a retired pilot and gifted engineer, surrounded in his farm by old wall clocks in various states of restoration. The farmer’s name was Antoine Bremont and although the company’s name is French in origin, Bremont retains a proudly British backbone. “There’s this truly incredible history of British watchmaking”, Nick says, with characteristic English enthusiasm, “and for people to understand and appreciate what you’re doing is fantastic, so although people like to play it down, it’s always nice to receive awards.” Those in question were from Walpole, the prestigious protector and promoter of the British luxury industry, which saw potential and named Bremont a Brand of Tomorrow in 2007 and, the following year, Best Emerging British Luxury Brand. Their customers since these accolades were bestowed have turned out to be, by and large, people who recognise the effort and passion that goes into watch-making and who have an interest in wellengineered products.
Is there a stereotypical Bremont owner? “What’s interesting,” says Nick, “is that it’s not all about money. A lot of our guys work in The City in high paid jobs and they will save up and buy one of our watches.” With a love of mechanical watches, often Bremont won’t be their first horological purchase; they may have been given a TAG or Omega when younger but since, “they have done their research and want to wear something that’s different, that separates them from the rest of the pack.” The purchase may well also become an investment; Nick tells me that some of his watches that sold for £6,500 three years ago are now going for as much as £10,000 and that in 2012, the brand will produce only 3,000 timepieces, making them yet more sought after. “We’re not a flashy brand, not showy. It’s for people who like the understated feeling of having something special on their wrist. I think the car equivalent would be more Maserati than Ferrari.” The English brothers are as serious as they are jovial and when I ask next what the biggest challenge has been to date, Nick replies, straight-faced, “working with my brother.” Cracking into a smile, he adds mischievously, “I won’t go through the list of ideas I’ve come up with because it’ll put him to shame”. He then answers honestly that “we’re very diplomatic and both involved with all the big decisions.” Challenges have come in the form of the technical – “in terms of procuring parts of this industry, especially when you’re doing a lot yourself and you have lots of suppliers” – and the financial; “the competition is spending a huge amount of money on marketing but we are a smaller brand, without a Richemont behind us.”
“There is this truly incredible history of British watchmaking”
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This is where unofficial ambassadors are worth their weight in gold. On the extreme sport side of things, Bremont works very closely with world-record climber Jake Meyer, Olympic skier Graham Bell, world-champion free diver Sara Campbell, polar explorer Ben Saunders and adventurer Bear Grylls. “There’s a great synergy and we appeal to those kind of guys, who show that you can use one of our watches in [extreme] conditions and it still works.” Charlie Boorman “batters them around because he’s always falling off a motorbike” but, testament to their endurance, he hasn’t managed to destroy one (yet). For those who aren’t fortunate, or mad, enough to spend most of their waking hours completing deathdefying or record-breaking feats, a Bremont watch is still suitable wristwear. “We wanted to produce watches which you could wear to the boardroom but also go off and do amazing stuff at the weekend – windsurfing, hiking up Everest, skydiving, whatever you want.” Indeed. For Nick and Giles, “whatever you want” seems to be the ethos they live by, revolving around aviation, engineering, time-keeping and family heritage. My afternoon at the airfield ends with a smile and a wave from Nick as he hops into his plane to ‘drive’ back to the office in Henley. What a commute. I have no doubt that Euan English and Antoine Bremont would be immensely proud of the Bremont brand and of the English brothers, and that their part in the legacy is only just beginning.
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Defined by sophistication and timelessness, it’s no wonder that the demand for British brands, like London-founded Rolex, has defied the recession
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1 Bank lid-over attaché case, £2,166, Ettinger (available in Harrods and Harvey Nichols) 2 Croco travel pass holder, £84, Ettinger (as before) 3 Mississippi croc golf ball tube, £75, Daines and Hathaway (www.dainesandhathaway.com) 4 Classic braces, £45, Budd Shirt Makers (3 Piccadilly Arcade) 5 Mississippi croc golf accessory wallet, £43, Daines and Hathaway (as before) 6 18-carat rose-gold Parliament watch, from a selection, Dent London (www.dentlondon.com) 7 Bladon black 48 hour bag, £1,400, Dunhill (www.dunhill.com) 8 Silverstone Tourbillograph Gold, £25,000, Graham London (available at Harrods) 9 Renaissance watch, from a selection, Speake-Marin (www.speake-marin.com) 10 Cosmograph Daytona, £19,670, Rolex (available at Harrods and Watches of Switzerland) 11 Classic umbrellas, £125 each, Budd Shirt Makers (as before)
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Jewellery
BOX Jewels, gems, pearls and diamonds; the essential components of any lady’s jewellery collection
Expert Opinion
Cutting EdgE Having captivated the world with his jewellery collections for more than 25 years, Theo Fennell continues to excite customers with his quirky wit and original conceptions, as shown through his latest collection
Jouster is made with a subtle mosaic of pavéset stones that hint at the signs and shapes of antiquity but the brilliance of its colours and the liquid designs give the pieces an extraordinarily contemporary look. Again, theo Fennell has combined the bold and the subtle, the old and the new, to make works of art you can wear.
Rebecca Hawkins Head of Design at boodles
it is difficult to pick a favourite gemstone. I am most attracted to blues, such as tanzanite, star sapphires and aquamarines. My favourite would have to be Paraiba tourmaline, the colour of a clear pool of water on a perfect summer’s day. if i could choose anything from the boodles’ inventory? It would be the Firebird bracelet.
Ruby and diamond medium Fleur de Lys shield pendant and chain set with pavé ruby rondell, £13,750 www.theofennell.com
the Art of diamonds Comprising eight unique pieces, with prices starting at £100,000, Danger is the exciting new collection by British designer Jack Du Rose. Du Rose came to London with the single-minded purpose of being commissioned by Stephen Webster, a dream which then became reality. Subsequently, he received a mystery call requesting him to design the master pattern for a life-size reproduction of a platinum and diamond-encrusted human skull. He worked 100-hour weeks for three months to complete the challenge and it wasn’t until he had finished that he discovered Damien Hirst had commissioned the £64 million work. Du Rose considers his works to be as much artwork as they are jewellery; each piece comes with its own bell jar and ebony display case, which locks with a gold and diamond scorpion-shaped key. Jack Du Rose Collection, available by appointment only, 020 7566 5870
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My designs are inspired by a variety of things: textiles and patterns, illustration and photography, poetry and, of course, nature. The less tangible and unstructured elements of nature, such as water, are reoccurring themes. Elegance and balance are the most important factors, whether the design is a minimal daytime piece or an elaborate, dramatic one off design. boodles prides itself on being a transparent company. It is important that all our diamonds are purchased from legitimate sources and not involved in funding conflict in any way. we’re planning an exciting new collection for May 2012. It will have an exotic feel with an eclectic mix of motifs and influences. It incorporates fresh and unusual colour combinations as well as an interesting conceptual thread linking the individual designs. www.boodles.com
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The
Jewels in our crown
Britain’s stamp on the jewellery world is elegantly eclectic; our thriving industry champions renowned stalwarts such as Garrard and Boodles, ‘diamond geezer’ Stephen Webster, and Solange Azagury-Partridge and Shaun Leane, two of the most exciting new designers on the scene. OLIVIA SHARPE reports
Garrard Boodles
Although unable to compete with Garrard for the title of world’s oldest jeweller, the family-owned company follows closely behind with a 200-year-old legacy, making it one of the most established of British jewellery brands. Embodying Boodles’ ethos of producing classic and elegant pieces, the Tanzanite and Vintage collections are truly exquisite, revealing the extent of head of design Rebecca Hawkins’ love of all things blue and sparkling. Princess-cut Tanzanite shimmer ring in platinum with 12 brilliant cut diamonds suspended from a diamond set bezel, £52,000 Tanzanite Milky Way necklace, from a selection Vintage heart-shaped sapphire and diamond earrings, £35,000 All Boodles, www.boodles.com
There is no need for an introduction to the royal jeweller. Despite its traditional heritage and status as creators of the Crown Jewels, the British jewellery house’s forward-thinking approach to its branding is emphasised through its innovative creative director Stephen Webster. This magnificent ‘Fire of London’ couture necklace, created by Webster for Garrard, is one of Garrard’s most iconic pieces, worn by British fashion icon Kate Moss in 2009. Fire of London couture necklace in white-gold and diamonds, only available to order Georgina Chapman for Garrard feather silver diamonds and blackened silver earrings, £1,950 Star and Garter ring from the Grace collection, £5,500 All Garrard, www.garrard.com
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Shaun Leane Like any soon-to-be top designer, Shaun Leane began his career working alongside revered figures such as the late Alexander McQueen, creating provocative and iconic catwalk jewellery. Inspired by this high-profile collaboration, Leane set out to create his own masterpieces; launching his eponymous collection in 1999. He successfully created a new genre of jewellery with his award-winning collections, merging poetry, history and sentiment with a sense of eternity and preciousness. The darkly romantic Blackthorn collection marks this fusion. Silver cluster ring with black pearl and black spinel, £325, large silver thorn pendant with black spinel leaves and black pearl cluster, £445 Both Shaun Leane, www.shaunleane.co.uk
Solange Azagury-Partridge It comes as no surprise that Solange began her infamous journey to jewellery stardom from a small boutique in the heart of Notting Hill. Here, in the ideal creative environment, Solange led the way forward with unique and quirky designs, each exemplifying her playful imagination and fantastical individualism. Notably, she was handpicked by Tom Ford to be creative director of Boucheron from 2001 to 2004. Diamond Hotlips 18-carat blackened white-gold and diamonds, £15,000, Mathemagical bracelet in 18-carat white-gold and diamonds, £140,000, Mish mash ring in18-carat blackened white gold diamonds and sapphires, £25,600 All Solange Azagury-Partridge, www.solange.co.uk
Stephen Webster Madonna, Sir Elton John, Kate Moss… these are just a handful of famous names who have fallen head over heels for Stephen Webster’s iconic designs, making him one of the most influential British jewellery designers of the Noughties. The underworld of the sinister intent of femme fatales has set the overall tone of his ‘Murder She Wrote’ glam-rock collection, every piece concealing a deep and deadly secret; the Black diamond crucifix earrings reveal dagger-sharp pointed ends. Alchemy in the UK signet ring set in black rhodium-plated sterling silver with Union Jack design, £225 Murder She Wrote chandelier couture earrings set in 18-carat white gold with blue sapphires and white diamonds, £13,550 Both Stephen Webster, www.stephenwebster.com
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golden
Opulence Our top luxury products this month are gloriously regal and serve as worthy gift inspiration, should you wish to commemorate all things British. The Akong necklace, with its silk tassels and intricate beading, and the exclusive Oscar de la Renta scent are both befitting of a true lady, while the scarlet leather clutch is the ideal accessory for a sophisticated dinner date. The gleaming, jewel-encrusted decanter is the perfect home for a night-cap and of course, a very unique camera is required to capture the moment.
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Deluxe vodka decanter inspired by Peter Carl Fabergé Imperial Collection Vodka in Sapphire, £2600, Signature Lifestyle Collection & Ladoga, Browns, South Molton Street, W1K 5RD www.brownsfashion.com
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Rock chic glamour in bold red and gold Rebecca Minkoff Mini MAC Clutch, £195, Austique 40 New Cavendish Street, W16 8UD www.austique.co.uk
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Pack a serious style punch with this eye-catching camera Diana F+ Gold Edition Camera, £99, Lomography www.lomographylondon.co.uk
4. heaven scent
Delight and inspire in a cloud of decadent fragrance Oscar de La Renta Live in Love, £66, Harrods www.harrods.com
5. coLLar me BeautiFuL
Statement neckwear for the fashion forward Crystal Tassel Collar Necklace, £750, Kabiri 37 Marylebone High Street, W1U 4QE www.kabiri.co.uk
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www.88connect.co.uk 08456 190 088
when art meets fashion:
Flying the British Flag The royal college of art announces the Burberry Design scholarship, marking its 175th anniversary and a decade at Burberry for christopher Bailey
The scholarship’s aim is to nurture and support creative talent across a number of design disciplines, including fashion, photography and textiles. Bailey, Burberry’s chief creative officer, graduated from the royal college of art in 1994, after receiving a scholarship from a fund set up by the family of the late designer Bill Gibb, and in 2003 he received an honorary rca Fellowship. The royal college of art is the world’s only wholly postgraduate university of art and design, offering degrees in the disciplines of fine art, applied art, design, communications and humanities. Notable rca alumni include David hockney, sir ridley scott, Tracey emin and sir James Dyson.
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Dr paul Thompson, rector of the royal college of art is “privileged to have [Bailey’s] knowledge, insight and experience” and “delighted that through the Burberry Design scholarships, the royal college of art will continue to produce some of the most outstanding creative talent in partnership with one of Britain’s most successful and dynamic global companies... Burberry is a highly successful company, driven by innovation; it provides the perfect source of inspiration for any design or art student.” Royal College of Art, Kensington Gore, SW7 2EU 020 7590 4444; www.rca.ac.uk
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the
Finer Thingsin life Julia Carrick, CeO of Walpole and former editor and founder of the Ft’s How to Spend It, speaks to AnnAbel HArrison about what epitomises the specific and unique aspects of luxury from our fair isle
I belIeve that heritage, quality, craftsmanship, creativity and innovation remain at the absolute heart of british luxury. british luxury brands also have a certain quirkiness and wit, giving them a unique personality that makes them stand out from their european counterparts. We changed our mission statement in 2005 from ‘promoting british excellence’ to ‘promoting british luxury’ because Walpole was growing rapidly and the membership needs were getting more diverse. For example, what would british Petroleum and Jimmy Choo have in common in terms of their agenda and needs? the british luxury industry was growing in strength and it was felt that, by focusing on luxury, we would be able to truly fulfil the needs of the members and support this growing and vital industry. One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced as CeO of Walpole has been the turbulent economic climate of the last few years. 2009 challenged even the most positive amongst us, and 2010 was unsettling as developed economies faced budget deficits, public spending cuts, unemployment and increased taxation. the economic climate over the past 12 months has, of course, been unsettling for the luxury goods industry; however what has been astonishing is the growth that some of our
british brands have reported. Mulberry, for example, has expanded its factory capacity and reported a surge in profits, as did burberry. I don’t think anyone knew quite how resilient british luxury brands would be during a recession. that said, our membership includes some of the nation’s oldest, finest and most loved businesses, many of whom have historically proved resilient; we have survived world wars, industrial revolutions and recessions. One aspect that has been surprising, and somewhat alarming though, has been the lack of understanding and recognition from governments for our industry. through our political engagement work on topics such as selective distribution agreements and competition law, we have been amazed how little the british luxury industry is really recognised for both our economic and creative value; and the fact is that it is important to the economy, employment, creativity, innovation, to britain’s international reputation and to tourism. We work closely with our French and Italian counterparts, Comité Colbert and altagamma, and it is very apparent that they really value and support their luxury goods industries, something that Walpole is trying to achieve here in the UK.
Top row / left to right Candy & Candy The Lanesborough Cole & Son Middle row / left to right Candy & Candy Cole & Son Bottom row / left to right Gieves & Hawkes Bovey Castle - interior Bovey Castle
INTERVIEW
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Candy & Candy
Hackett
INTERVIEW
What has become clear recently is that there is a core luxury customer, who has money to spend and is looking for unique, quality products which are going to last. That is what Britain does very well. We are fortunate to have a global appeal, with Asia in particular seeming to have an insatiable appetite for all things British and that is partly due to our history and traditions as well as our reputation for design. I don’t think that the inherent qualities of British luxury have changed. These strong values have been the backbone of our industry and ensured its sustainability and success. What is so key to our industry is that it balances both tradition and modernity. We have businesses that are steeped in heritage with incredibly skilled craftsmen, who ensure the meaning of ‘Made in Britain’ retains its value. This is kept fresh with visionary creativity and internationally respected innovation, that is itself inherent in our culture. The combination of these factors is very appealing to consumers. It is about owning something genuine, unique and which has a story. This year will be the second year running that the eyes of the world are on the UK and in particular London. Last year’s Royal Wedding really brought out something special, not just in the capital, but across the country and beyond. We had something to celebrate and we really waved the flag for Great Britain in a way that only we can. London is gearing up to take the spotlight again and I hope the atmosphere is just as electric. It is an opportunity to show the world our unique identity and national spirit how we like to do things. The opportunity is there; there will be hundreds of thousands of people coming to us and watching us, who will all want to own a little piece of Britishness and all it encompasses. Britishness evokes a sense of tradition, about doing things properly. At some point over the last decade, this became unfashionable. The understanding of ‘British’ has always been the same and is deep-rooted in our heritage and culture - but we had a crisis of confidence. We lost our way in what and who we are. The last few years have seen luxury brands embrace every part of what it means to be British. What binds and distinguishes British people from the rest of the world is a wide spectrum of conservatism, eccentricity, quirkiness, wit, intelligence and, most importantly, our history and wealth of culture. What it means for luxury brands is something entirely unique to celebrate, innovate and demonstrate
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through their designs and products. The British luxury industry has a strong legacy in supporting emerging companies and individuals, and I was lucky enough to have this kind of support early on in my career. Our current chairman of Walpole, Sir David Bell, was former chairman of the FT, and, while he did not necessarily mentor me, he believed in me, gave me the right guidance, the opportunity and helped me build the confidence in myself that I could really achieve things. In turn, we have played an active role in fostering this mentoring spirit, nurturing the creative and entrepreneurial talent of the future through our two mentoring programmes – Brands of Tomorrow and Crafted. Through these two programmes, Walpole has now mentored nearly 50 individuals and businesses. www.thewalpole.co.uk
Julia CarriCk & Walpole No one knows the luxury industry quite like Julia Carrick. She founded the Financial Times’ hugely successful How To Spend It magazine and, since 2000, has continued to further the interests of the British luxury industry as Ceo of Walpole. under her leadership, membership has quadrupled and now includes more than 160 of Britain’s most prestigious brands and cultural institutions, as the largest membership organisation representing luxury businesses in europe. Walpole takes its name from the statesman Sir robert Walpole (1676–1745), a highly regarded commercial minister, famous for his energetic promotion of overseas trade. He was also a great patron of the arts and contributed to a golden age of craftsmanship and manufacturing. From large to small, all members uphold and promote the core values of Walpole, which include quality, style, design, excellence, craftsmanship, creativity, sustainability, service and innovation.
Below, left to right / Charbonnel et Walker chocolates; Ettinger briefcases; Links of London silver charm; navy Burberry coat
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Canary Wharf London luxury & style canarywharf.com
FASHION
brItISH FASHION
Centre Stage tAkeS
In tribute to London’s phenomenal fashion scene, AnnAbel HArrison takes a closer look at four of Britain’s top fashion houses and their dynamic designers
Mulberry
est. 1971
988 khaM est. 1 Jenny Pac
ViVienne Wes tWood est. 197 1 “People constantly make the mistake of comparing London with New York, Milan and Paris and that's not what it's about. London has its own fashion identity. You come here to find the next Alexander McQueen or John Galliano.” If there is one woman in the fashion industry with whom it is impossible to argue, it is the indomitable Anna Wintour, editor-in-chief of American Vogue. Last year London officially overtook New York* and cemented its status as the fashion capital of the world. And Anna Wintour is right. London has made its own indelible, unique stamp on the global fashion industry, as exemplified by style icons across the decades, from the peerless Audrey Hepburn to young Brit pioneer Emma Watson via the much-imitated Twiggy and Princess Diana. Two Kates have flown the British fashion flag on the global stage, in very different ways but with equally profound effects; the well-dressed, well-spoken Duchess of Cambridge has championed British designers and a classic, modest style while the effortlessly chic, cutting-edge cool Kate Moss has been single-handedly responsible for starting numerous trends. While there are dozens of British brands worthy of our praise, we have chosen four that have enjoyed particular success in recent months: Mulberry, loved for its iconic Alexa and Bayswater bags and for bringing country chic to city lifestyles; Vivienne Westwood, the eccentric, colourful doyenne of punk, pirate and Anglomania fashion; Jenny Packham, propelled to worldwide recognition after being singled out as a favourite brand of Catherine Middleton; and Amanda Wakeley, who has dressed women of all ages in daytime ‘luxe sportif’ and evening ‘contemporary glamour’ for more than two decades. * According to a study by Global Language Monitor
aManda Wak eley est. 1990 067
BAGS OF STYLE Inspired by the cool of the city and crafts of the countryside, Mulberry was established in 1971 and the brand has since carved a niche for itself as an idiosyncratically British luxury label. Roger Saul set up the company in Somerset with £500 he inherited on his 21st birthday and it went from strength to strength for three decades. A boardroom coup in 2002, when Saul was ousted, marks the tipping point; Mulberry began to shift from respected, small-scale company to fashion phenomenon. And this phenomenon is all about the bags. Over the past decade, the name Mulberry has become almost inseparable from fashion week front row laps and outfit descriptions of the hoards of women toting its handbags; from young professionals to A-listers and leggy teens to stylish yummy mummies, there seems to be no typical Mulberry bag owner. Everyone wants one. A catwalk collaboration with Luella Bartley produced the Gisele bag, named after the Brazilian supermodel, was a commercial hit, which gave rise to the cult-status Bayswater and iconic satchel-style Alexa bags. The newest must-have? The Del Rey, named after New York singer Lana Del Rey. The Oscar-equivalent stamp of fashion approval for Mulberry came with victory as Designer Brand of the Year at 2010’s British Fashion Awards, beating industry favourites Burberry and Victoria Beckham. Although designer handbags have historically been of Italian or French heritage, Mulberry is quintessentially English, through and through, right down to the practicality of including a shoulder strap with every bag, no matter how small, and the English factory for craftsmanship. In July last year, analysts reported that Mulberry Group Plc was the world’s best-performing fashion retail stock over the past year and its sales may keep gaining, driven by overseas growth. By the end of 2011, Mulberry had more overseas stores than it does in the UK. Make no mistake: this is a brand that’s here to stay. Mulberry, 171-175 Brompton Road, SW3 1NF, 020 7838 1411
ANGLO, PUNK AND ROCK ‘N’ ROLL If Kate Moss is the Queen and Kate Middleton the Princess, then Vivienne Westwood is the brilliant, ground-breaking Godmother of British fashion. It’s hard to imagine a London fashion scene without the eccentric, fiery-haired Dame stalking down the catwalk, dwarfed by six foot supermodels decked out in her creations. It all began in 1971 when Westwood and her partner Malcolm McLaren rebelled against the enduring 60s hippie trend. Interested in music and memorabilia, biker boots and leather, they opened a shop at 430 Kings Road named Too Fast to Live, Too Young to Die, branded with a skull and crossbones. Their provocative t-shirts, ‘rubberwear for the office’ slogan and DIY straps and zips aesthetic led to the media labelling the look ‘Punk Rock’. The Pirate Collection came next, marking Westwood and McLaren’s first catwalk show in 1981, followed by the ‘Pagan Years’, tweedy collections that parodied the upper class. The Pirates and Punk phases are testament to Westwood’s ability to kick-start trends that would earn places in history. Today, the pirate flag is still flying high thanks to high profile designers (Jean Paul Gaultier and Alexander McQueen, to name two) and the global success of Pirates of the Caribbean franchise. Punk lives on in Balmain’s studded, leathery glory, emblazoned across Henry Holland’s t-shirts and through girls like Alice Dellal, who dresses as though she’s stepped out of the 80s. Anglomania is a central thread of the brand’s success because Dame Vivienne firmly believes that fashion is a combination and exchange of ideas between France and England; “On the English side we have tailoring and an easy charm, on the French side that solidity of design and proportion that comes from never being satisfied because something can always be done to make it better, more refined.” We salute the Dame for her outstanding contributions to fashion. Vivienne Westwood, Worlds End, 430 King’s Road, SW10 OLJ, 020 7352 6551
FASHION
GROWN-UP GLAMOUR Amanda Wakeley’s signature label was launched in 1990 and in just two decades her name has become synonymous with style, luxury and understated, grown-up glamour. Amanda began designing clothes based on her own passion to create “utterly beautiful clothes that women love to wear” and what we particularly love about Amanda’s collections, especially in a city where eclectic style and ageless dressing is encouraged rather than shunned, is this ethos: “The Amanda Wakeley woman has an attitude to dressing rather than being a specific age... She wears the clothes because they are appropriate for her lifestyle and are body-enhancing, yet comfortable, sexy but not overt”. This is exemplified by the fact that the brand’s famous fans span not only decades, from Kate Winslet to Helen Mirren, but also continents; Hollywood stars Angelina Jolie and Scarlett Johansson have elected to sweep down red carpets in Wakeley creations. These have also been the choice for many members of Royal families, most notably the late Princess of Wales, who chose a bottle-green Amanda Wakeley trouser suit to announce her retirement from public life in 1993, and Queen Rania of Jordan. Amanda was recognised for her services to the fashion industry in February 2010 with an OBE, after having bought back her company in 2009 and having made a triumphant, critically acclaimed return to London Fashion Week. She has nothing but praise for the British fashion industry – “I love the individuality of British style – it generally has a sense of humour and there is no need to conform” – and since 1996 has co-chaired the committee for the Fashion Targets Breast Cancer Appeal, which has raised more than £10 million to date. Amanda declares, though, that “there is still so much to achieve”; we have no doubt that she will. Amanda Wakeley Flagship, 175-177 Fulham Road, SW3 6JW, 020 7352 7143
FIT FOR A PRINCESS The name Jenny Packham has been making significant waves of late, both in London and across the pond in sister fashion capital New York, following a dazzling A/W12 fashion week show. Although Jenny, a graduate of the prestigious Central St Martins School of Art, launched her first collection in 1988, it is only in recent years that she has enjoyed widespread and much deserved critical acclaim. Known for its exquisite evening dresses and intricate bridal gowns, the brand has benefitted hugely from ‘the Kate effect’ since the Duchess of Cambridge pledged her allegiance to the British brand. Catherine wore several Jenny Packham dresses during her tour of Canada and LA in July last year, looking picture perfect on one occasion in canary yellow and on another in a silver and marble grey De Gournay hand-painted silk dress. This boosted international popularity, with Hollywood clients including Angelina Jolie and Kate Winslet, as well as bringing a multitude of awards for Hollywood Style Designer of the Year, International Couture Bridal Designer of the Year 2007 and British Bridal Dress Designer of the Year 2008 and 2011. What essential items must every British’s woman’s wardrobe contain? Jenny’s reply was this: “Something glamorous that sparkles and shimmers and hits the floor (perhaps a Jenny Packham), waiting for its moment to team up with killer heels (ideally Louboutins) and your favourite scent; Une Rose by Frederic Malle.” One of Jenny’s evening gowns is at the top of our wardrobe wish list. Do we need it? Maybe not. But is it essential? Definitely. Jenny Packham – Ready To Wear Boutique, 3A Carlos Place, Mount Street, W1K, 020 7493 6295 Jenny Packham – Bridal Boutique, 75 Elizabeth Street, SW1, 020 7730 2264 Jenny Packham – Accessories Boudoir, 34 Elizabeth Street, SW1W, 020 7730 4883
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FASHION
A Celebration of British Design Amongst the list of architects, interior designers and graphic designers, fashion stands out as the category in the Design of the Year awards which most embodies the beautiful and avant-garde in British design, with nominees including Alexander McQueen, Vivienne Westwood and Sarah Burton at Alexander McQueen. Vivienne Westwood has unceasingly challenged rules to create iconic pieces of art. Although occasionally ridiculed by the fashion world for her wacky creations, the inventor of 70s punk has never let this faze her, continuing to use her collections as outlets for her creativity. The nominated A/W11 Ethical Fashion Africa Collection encapsulates Westwood’s belief that fashion can transcend aesthetics and functionality to become a cultural and political expression. 8 February – 4 July 2012 www.designsoftheyear.com
Her S T Y L E By OLIVIA SHARPE
A Hat for all Seasons In the lead-up to Britain’s much-anticipated summer social calendar, the luxurious Milestone Hotel is offering an exclusive opportunity for guests to pair one of Louis Mariette’s headpieces with their outfits. Guests can choose from his latest S/S Ready to Wear Collection and the milliner will be on hand to ensure you achieve the ultimate in sophistication and style. Mariette’s creations have been worn by an eclectic and prolific clientele including Jerry Hall, Joan Collins and Kate Moss. He was most notably commissioned by Harrods to design one of his most spectacular creations to date, the Chapeau d’Amour, worth £1.5 million and made from a rare weave of platinum fabric studded with diamonds. 54-58 Michael Road, SW6 2EF 020 7730 3050 www.louismariette.com
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Flower Power As flowers begin to bloom in Britain’s gardens and parks, floral patterns took on a life of their own on this year’s runways with printed perennials, beaded blossoms and applique blooms from the likes of Matthew Williamson, Chloe and Temperley London. Left / Rosine printed silk jumpsuit £1,950, Temperley London 2-10 Colville Mews, W11 Above / Kyoto printed silk-chiffon wrap dress, £995, Matthew Williamson www.NET-A-PORTER.com
From Somewhere With fans including Livia Firth, From Somewhere is the environmentally-friendly fashion brand, as featured in Vogue, which everyone wants to be wearing. Long gone are tragic straw espadrilles descended from the hippy era. Instead, expect contemporary and unique designs, each individually cut from reclaimed fabrics including knitwear, cashmere, silks and tweeds. Based in Portobello, an area with a history of endorsing individual style, the boutique is run by Orsola de Castro and Filippo Ricci, founders of the British Fashion Council Estethica at London Fashion Week. Their priority is to tackle the fashion industry’s waste, whilst still providing stylish, high end women’s clothing.
Photography: Will Whipple
341 Portobello Road, W10 5SA 020 8960 9995 www.fromsomewhere.co.uk
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FASHION
Making a Splash Two years ago it was Vilebrequin; last year it was Orlebar Brown; this summer we’re certain it will be Love Brand & Co. providing the swim shorts in which to be seen. The brainchild of London designer Oliver Tomalin, the company’s Trunks for Trunks range is committed to the plight of the endangered Asian elephant by helping to raise money for Elephant Family, a charity dedicated to saving the iconic, endangered animal. The loosely tailored S/S12 collection has a classic European cut (above the knee) and comes in a selection of eight block colours, two stripes and five limited edition prints. Expect to see the beaches of Ibiza, Barts and the South of France awash with the Elephant logo. Love Brand & Co.’s Trunks for Trunks are available online from www.lovebrand.com and at Selfridges, priced at £128
His S T Y L E By RICHARD BROWN
A. Sauvage’s British Style A.Sauvage will be opening its new flagship store at 48 Maddox Street later this month. Counting among its ambassadors Mark Ronson, Noel Gallagher and Dominic Cooper, the brand has been described as “a way of life” by The Observer and “the future of British menswear” by The Evening Standard. Head to the store for A. Sauvage’s trademark satin-lapelled tuxedos and houndstooth flecked blazers.
Burberry Brit He first hit the billboards four years ago when he modelled Burberry’s S/S08 campaign. Now, fresh from the success of The Pillars of the Earth and My Week with Marilyn, Brit actor Eddie Redmayne is back, fronting the brand’s latest S/S collection. Shot in London with model of the moment Cara Delevingne, the playful campaign highlights the brand’s ‘heritage in protection’ ethos, showcasing parkas and the signature Burberry trench coat. Burberry will be introducing a new image every month throughout the season to display the breadth of the collection. Burberry 2 Brompton Road SW1X 7QN
A. Sauvage is available at Harrods
Business Class It may be finished with Italian-made hardware and feature Swiss made zips, but this handmade cabin bag is the latest creation from a brand as British as Yorkshire puddings and afternoon tea. Aspinal’s Revival Roller Cabin Bag is crafted from supple pebble-textured calf leather and accented by distinctive studs and equestrian-styled tan straps. Tailored to comply with aeroplane cabin restrictions, the bag provides the ideal luggage for short business trips and weekend city breaks. The Revival Roller Cabin Bag is available at Harrods for £795
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from
L O N D O N
with love
PhotograPhy:
Fashion Editor:
Elizabeth Gibson
Charlie Moore
Coat, £625, Paule Ka at Harrods (0845 605 1234), pink wool dress, £495, Victoria, Victoria Beckham at Selfridges, acetate sunglasses, £239, Dior Eyewear, 01423 520 303, cream leather gloves with pearl trim, £139.95, Sermonetta 020 7491 9009, patent leather vanity case, £495, Aspinal www.aspinaloflondon.com, cream silk scarf, stylist’s own
Dress, £525, Paule Ka at Harrods, as before, sunglasses, £179, Burberry at Sunglasses Hut, 0844 204 0860, satin gloves, £35, Cornelia James, www.corneliajames.com, hat, £165, Emma Fielden, www.emmafielden.co.uk
Silk crepe dress, £1,120 Alexander McQueen at Matches, 020 7487 5400, lace head piece, £330, made to order from Piers Atkinson, www.piersatkinson.com, lace gloves, £35, Cornelia James, as before, earrings, £100, Kenneth Jay Lane, www.atelier-mayer.com
Crepe jacket, £375, silk blouse, £240, both Red Valentino at Harvey Nichols, 020 7235 6707, silk pencil skirt, £390, Reem Juan, www.reemjuan.com, earrings, £100, Kenneth Jay Lane, as before
Silk playsuit, £1,950, matching kimono, £325, both Temperley London 020 7229 7957, earrings, £115, Anton Heunis at Fenwicks, 020 7629 9161, ring, stylist’s own
MAke up: Amanda Wright, using Alpha H HAir: James Langan using L’Oréal professionnel MOdeLS: Carly at profile and dallas at MOT
Health &
B EAUTy “You can be gorgeous at 30, charming at 40 and irresistible for the rest of your life” – Coco Chanel
THE TREND Bronze Glow
LATEST LAUNCHES Dressing Table Jewels
Models on the S/S12 runways at Michael Kors, Sass & Bide and Roland Mouret all sported golden glows – be it glistening full body tans or flashes of bronzer accentuated with metallic make-up. The look is almost universally flattering and translates effortlessly from day to night with a touch of shimmer. This season’s incarnation of the trend is all about a dewy finish to the skin, achieved with moisturising formulations and wetlook colour palettes. Estée Lauder’s Bronze Goddess range has fabulous products which fit the brief.
Both facets of this new fragrance make our beauty wish list this month. Firstly, the bottle: a jewel-like casing in reflection of a legendary design house in vivid tones of aquamarine and silver. Secondly, the scent: a fresh blend of woody and floral notes derived from pear, lime zest, honeysuckle and amber.
Limited Edition Pure Color Gelée Powder Eyeshadow Palette, £35 Estée Lauder, www.esteelauder.co.uk
BEAUTy ADDRESS Book Long Hair Clinic at Richard Ward Hair & Metrospa
Van Cleef & Arpels Aqua Oriens £54, Harrods, www.harrods.com
The New Classic Molton Brown is known for its luxurious body care ranges, fuelling high aspirations for its very first anti-ageing collection which launches with targeted crèmes for face, neck, décolletage and hands. The aims of the ten-piece line are simple and widely appreciated: to soften fine lines, smooth skin tone, protect from UVA/UVB rays and enhance radiance. Anti-Ageing Skincare Collection, from £25, Molton Brown www.moltonbrown.co.uk
Pretty Plié Inspirations Those attempting to refresh an age-old hairstyle or to restore nourishment and shine to their hair after somewhat enthusiastic styling should bookmark the Long Hair Clinic, a specific concept created by Technical Director at Richard Ward, Mario Charalambous. The signature treatment comprises split-end removal, using clippers to preserve optimum length, followed by the application of an intensive conditioning treatment under heat to neutralise the effects of environmental damage.
OPI channels contemporary culture with its shades, citing influences in every sphere from fashion to pop music. The latest tones owe their pastel hues to the rather classical origins of the New York City Ballet and serve as a French manicure with a twist.
82 Duke of York Square, Sloane Square, SW3 4LY 020 7730 1222, www.richardward.co.uk
New York City Ballet Collection, £11 each, OPI, www.lenawhite.co.uk
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BEAUTY
Glitterati
For ThE
GABRIELLE LANE discovers a discreet yet gorgeous luxury spa in the heart of Knightsbridge, which attracts a very discerning clientele
In the domaIn of London’s most luxurious hotels, the mandarin oriental hyde Park is noted for its fabulous architecture, quintessentially British interiors and beautiful Knightsbridge setting. although its spa has stayed relatively under-theradar, that’s not to say that those in the know don’t praise its fantastic service and facilities – and this praise is given most deservedly. on-site there’s everything one could need for a leisurely afternoon of pampering, including a vitality pool, sanarium, amethyst crystal steam room and gym, each smart and timeless upon appearance owing to the white walls, dark woods and accents of sky blue used throughout. Staff members are attentive and knowledgeable, channelling an ethos which centres on bespoke treatments, and this is best reflected in the option of booking time slots which can then be used for different rituals to suit the client’s mood on the day. this flexible service, combined with the spa’s ‘tick-every-box’ approach to high-end amenities, means a visit is an ideal gift experience for those who don’t often make time for this kind of luxury.
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the mandarin oriental Spa also satisfies the every whim of guests desiring east-meets-west, mind-meets-body pampering. In fact, unique therapies and boutique style rituals are in charming abundance: signature treatments incorporate elements of traditional Chinese medicine such as scent and touch (the two-therapist massages are blissfully intensive for tired muscles) as well as native american Indian practices, such as the use of hot stones. there’s also just as much of a consideration here for the modern lifestyle demands of spa guests, with a veritable entourage of health and fitness experts available on request, includes Pilates instructors, nutritionists and a tai-chi practitioner. While you can opt for customised, aromatherapybased facials, oriental essence massages utilising the invigorating scents of ginger and mandarin or anti-ageing treatments, it’s tempting to go all-out and combine body wraps, foot rituals and everything in between as part of one of the many incredible programmes of relaxation available. Mandarin Oriental Spa, 66 Knightsbridge, SW1X 7LA 020 7838 9888, www.mandarinoriental.com/london
SPA SPOTLIGHT... The English Rose Treatment Lazing in the thermal suite before a dip in the rippling plunge pool, with no-one else around, it’s easy to feel like the most indulged of divas. this is a feeling that never leaves you for a second during two hours of massage, cleansing and skin-buffing, accompanied by the beautifying and softly scented qualities of warm, drizzled rose oil – a package which constitutes the english Rose treatment. there’s the relief of tired muscles, aided by a herbpacked poultice, a facial which leaves skin radiant, a scalp treatment to condition hair and relieve stress then stretches to tone the whole body. It’s an experience which makes any guest rethink previous uses of the word indulgent.
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Duravit brings the bathroom to life.
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
one hundred years ago:
15 April 1912 With the 100th anniversary of the Titanic catastrophe approaching, the infamous maritime episode is to be remembered and commemorated
“In a solItude of the sea / deep from human vanity, and the Pride of life that planned her, stilly couches she... alien they seemed to be: / no mortal eye could see the intimate welding of their later history... and as the smart ship grew / In stature, grace, and hue In shadowy silent distance grew the Iceberg too.” These words were written by Thomas Hardy in the Convergence of the twain, capturing the harmonic tragedy that unfolded at the peril of the North Atlantic ocean. 15 April marks the 100th anniversary of the sinking of RMS Titanic, which struck an iceberg a mere four days into her maiden voyage, leading to one of the most fatal peacetime maritime disasters in history.
The largest and most luxurious ship of its time, it has since become legendary. The passengers on board totalled 2,200 and 1,517 of those lost their lives, the ship only holding enough lifeboats to accommodate 1,178 people. With 6,000 artefacts recovered from the wreckage, there is no denying the mystery and intrigue still surrounding the vessel. Most of all, the sinking of the Titanic tells a primal tale of man challenging nature, and losing. A newspaper at the time concluded: “The story has retained a remarkable power... Although caused by an iceberg, it was also man-made, the result of the state of mind-grandiose, avaricious, and self-confident - of the British and American magnates and engineers who conceived and built the ship.”
“And as the smart ship grew In stature, grace, and hue In shadowy silent distance grew the Iceberg too.”
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095
Ghost Story Matthew Carter goes for a drive in one of the best cars in the world and he’s proud to say that it’s made in Britain
MOTORING
‘WAFtABILIty’. It’s probably not even a real word but it sums up perfectly what it’s like to drive a Rolls-Royce, because you don’t just drive a Rolls; you waft about in one. this means any journey in a Rolls-Royce becomes a special event, and surprisingly, that can create problems. I’ve been doing this job for quite a few years now and you’d think that, with all that experience, every report is as objective as it can be. But the moment I slide behind the wheel of a Rolls, things get a bit tougher. I know it’s just a car, but there’s something very special about sitting behind that long bonnet and seeing the Spirit of Ecstasy framing the view ahead. I can tell it’s going to be especially difficult today. I’m at Goodwood, home to Rolls-Royce, and I’ve been handed the keys to a brand new Ghost EWB (extended wheelbase). the sun is shining, the roads are a rewarding mix of the fast and the twisty and they are empty. Objectivity could go out of the window. Before the start button is pushed, though, there’s time for a quick reflection on the Ghost. It was introduced less than two
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years ago as a new, entry-level model – the way into R-R ownership. In extended wheelbase form (introduced last year) it’s only £230,000 – a veritable bargain alongside the £337,000 price tag for the Phantom EWB. It’s smaller than the Phantom, of course, but these things are relative. At more than 5.5 metres from the Flying Lady’s nose to the car’s back bumper, it’s still significantly longer than a long wheelbase Merc S-Class, for example. However, the Ghost is very different to the Phantom. Even this stretched model – it’s 170mm longer than the standard car, all of which has been handed over to those in the back who now enjoy 330mm of legroom – is aimed at the ownerdriver rather than James the chauffeur. It’s certainly caught the imagination of those with the wherewithal to buy one. Despite the global recession, Rolls-Royce enjoyed record sales of more than 3,500 cars in 2011, up 31 per cent on the previous year. And of those, three in every four was a Ghost. It might be the baby of the range, but it’s still a big, imposing car.
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MOTORING
The famous R-R grille stands proudly at the front, though smaller and more curved than usual, and the bonnet still seems long enough to land a small plane on. Frankly, there’s an awful lot of metal to move about which is why the Ghost has a 6.6-litre V12 engine under that elegant nose. Not one but two turbos allow it to develop a heady 563hp, more than 100hp over what the larger, heavier Phantom can muster. The result? Despite its stately looks, the Ghost flies. Top speed might be limited to 155mph, but its 0-60mph time of just 4.7 seconds puts it into sports car territory. If that figure seems impressive on paper, it’s even more so in the real world. Put your foot down and the gearbox, an eight-speed automatic, drops a few cogs and the car, all two-and-a-half tonnes of it, doesn’t so much waft as rocket away. At least, I think it’s an eight-speeder: in everyday use the gearshifts are so smooth and so slick that detecting any change is damn near impossible. This isn’t helped by the lack of a rev counter. R-R clearly thinks this a device vulgar, because in its place it has created something called a Power Reserve Gauge. At a standstill the gauge reads 100 per cent and this diminishes as you floor the throttle – a bit pointless, in my opinion. What is perhaps even more remarkable is that, driven sensibly, you ought to be able to get 20mpg from the thing. Alongside a diesel hatchback that might not seem very clever but for a Rolls, believe me, that’s impressive. Mind you, if you can afford the car in the first place, and environmental considerations aside, you won’t be worried by its thirst. This performance, of course, is down to BMW, owners of this most British of brands. The V12 engine was originally developed for the 7-Series and the car’s steel frame is also related to the BMW flagship (not that you’d notice it, though). It’s twice the price of the Seven, but then, it’s much more than twice the vehicle. The engine’s performance really sums up the entire car: it’s smooth and sophisticated yet can turn nasty (in a good way) on demand. On the one hand – and especially when we’re talking about the EWB version with its greater
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In brIef Car:
Rolls-Royce Ghost EWB PrICe:
£230,000 engIne:
6,592cc, V12-cylinder petrol Power:
563 hp PerformanCe:
155 mph max, 0-60 mph in 4.7 seconds DrIve:
Rear-wheel drive, eight-speed automatic
rear legroom – it’s a genuinely relaxing way to waft about. Yet start to use the performance and this big car shrinks around you and really shifts. But standing start sprints aren’t what this car is all about. Consider the fact that it takes 20 days to handbuild, and seven to paint and polish, and that the carpet is thick enough to lose yourself in. Consider, too, the rear compartment, accessed via rear-hinged ‘lounge’ doors, which has all the luxury expected from a private jet. 9.2 inch LCD screens are built into the back of the front seats; the sound system has a ten channel amplifier and 16 speakers; and the seat themselves are behind the rear pillar to offer the occupants a little privacy from the gawping crowds. It’s all about the luxury. The Ghost has a sophisticated air suspension system borrowed from BMW. On smooth surfaces it really does glide along, but on the UK’s broken roads things can get a little unsettled. The wheels tend to patter over the bumps and the ride becomes almost jittery. Almost. We are dealing with superlatives here, so if anything fails to come up 100 per cent it’s worth talking about; in a normal car the slight deterioration in ride quality probably wouldn’t be noticed. I do hesitate to say this but I have one or two other issues. The dashboard might look imposing but it’s an ergonomic mish-mash with buttons and controls scattered all over the place, though no doubt an owner would soon get used to it. There’s even one large chrome push button with no indication as to what it does. I never did dare to push it. The dials themselves are a little on the mean side, too, so it’s just as well that it has a heads up display to let you know how fast you’re going. Trust me, with no noise from the engine and no road roar or wind whistling around the door mirrors, it’s all too easy to break speed limits: the display is vital. It’s just a shame that its housing behind the steering wheel causes such reflections in the screen. While I’m pleased to see that I haven’t lost all objectivity, it’s hard not to be impressed by the Ghost. Why on earth would anyone want a Phantom when they could have this?
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INDOOR
International Polo moves indoors this March as the sport’s biggest stars descend on The O2 arena for the HPA Gaucho Polo 2012, reports Martin Boshell
PROMOTION
JaMie MorrisoN Age: 35 Place of Birth: London Handicap: 8 indoor Career Highlight: Winning the Eduardo Moore Cup What are the biggest misconceptions about polo? That it’s just for the rich. at the top levels of any sport you have to spend a lot of money but polo is accessible to all at lower entry levels. Do events like The HPA Gaucho International Polo help to dispel that myth? absolutely. i think the fact that it’s held at an iconic and instantly recognisable stadium makes it a lot more accessible to the public. Do you have to adjust your game for arena polo? it’s a lot more exciting than outdoor polo and a great deal more physical. it feels almost a completely different game, like how i’d imagine playing ice hockey on horseback would!
If you attended the inaugural Gaucho International Polo last year, then well done, you helped to make history. along with more than 7,000 other spectators, you made the o2 event the highest attended indoor international the sport has ever known. following the success of 2011’s tournament, you won’t be surprised to learn that the event is back for a second year. Returning to the iconic arena on 21 March, the HPa Gaucho International Polo 2012 will merge music with polo as Grammy-award-winning South american band Bajofondo takes to the stage between two international arena matches. Played on smaller sized pitches than the grass version, and with three players per team rather than four, arena polo has fast become a sport popular with thrillseeking fans. Games are faster, slicker and more highlycharged than their traditional counterparts, intensifying the match atmosphere and enhancing the spectator experience.Guests attending March’s HPa Gaucho International Polo 2012 will see Scotland take on Ireland before the evening culminates in the titanic clash between IG Index’s england and argentina – a match that will pit Britain’s finest player Jamie Morrison against the sport’s biggest star nacho figueras. as a restaurant dedicated to promoting the best in argentine food and wine, Gaucho has promised to enthuse proceedings with a South american vibe. not only has it organized for Bajofondo to introduce the crowds to their unique blend of ‘electrotango’ but the restaurant has also arranged for Wines of argentina to give guests a taste of the country’s 30 finest wineries in their complimentary tasting lounge. although Gaucho are keen to stress that anything goes when it comes to dress code, polo has also become synonymous with a particular article of dress: white jeans. It is from this association that Gaucho International Polo 2012 takes its ‘White Jeans Party’ theme, so if you own a pair, wear them; Gaucho has promised to donate £1 to charity for every person that does so. the White Jeans campaign has been a huge success so far, with celebrities such as tara Palmer-tompkinson, aldo Zilli, Made in Chelsea’s Millie Mackintosh, Rosie fortescue and Jamie Laing, plus rugby stars Simon Shaw and Kenny Logan supporting this wonderful cause. as the evening draws to a close, entertainment continues argentinean-style at the nearby Indigo2 with Royston Prisk presenting the Gaucho International Polo Players after-Party. Hugo Heathcote, James Park and Sacha Bahlsen will be joining dJ Sam young to ensure the party flows with a seamless mix of music, dancing, champagne and cocktails.
Nacho Figueras Age: 34 Who: Argentina Captain Handicap: 6 outdoor 7 indoor Career Highlight: Winning the Copa Republica in Palermo What are the biggest misconceptions about polo? That polo is out of reach for most people. Polo is a great sport to watch and enjoy with friends and family and, if you’re at the right place, even a great sport to play. You just need to be passionate about it. How does the HPA Gaucho International Polo 2012 help to promote the sport? it puts it in a more familiar venue and makes it much more accessible. it teaches people that polo is easy to become involved with. Why has arena polo proved such a successful? it allows you to play in front of more people while still giving a great idea of what polo is about. it’s very engaging for new spectators.
Gaucho International Polo 2012, The O2 arena, Wednesday 21 March, www.gauchopolo.com
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08/03/2012 15:59
bringing history to life:
ModernVictorian Splendour The Grosvenor hotel, a stone’s throw from the borough, is restored to its former glory for london’s golden year of celebrations and its own 150th anniversary
The Grosvenor hoTel, which holds the accolade of being london’s oldest railway hotel and the first in the capital to have fully functioning lifts, has reached the end of an extensive refurbishment, just as the world’s gaze falls upon the capital. The iconic Grade II-listed property, which originally opened its doors in 1862, has been restored to its full victorian splendour by Guoman hotels. experts from english heritage were brought on board in order to preserve and refresh the building’s original architectural features, including the restoration of the original gold leaf finish, hand painted onto all the columns in the grand lobby, and the uncovering of original white marble on the pillars, which was discovered during the refurbishment.
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If you’re staying or visiting for business purposes, you’ll notice that all the conference rooms are named after iconic trains, in a direct tribute to the hotel’s heritage as a central railway hotel and a quintessentially British touch. Pictured below is the opulent, Parisianinspired bathroom of the Courtesan’s Boudoir suite, recently opened in homage to one of the hotel’s most infamous visitors. This was none other than the scandalous courtesan Miss Cora Pearl who, upon arriving at the hotel while visiting london in the 1870s, was refused entry when stories of her hedonistic lifestyle surfaced. The Grosvenor Hotel, 101 Buckingham Palace Road, SW1W 0SJ 0871 376 9038
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Travel the
wOrld “Not all those who wander are lost” – J.R.R. Tolkein
By Invitation Only
For an authentic Italian countryside experience, there is no more picturesque option than the luxury Castello Di Casole. The ruins of an Etruscan castle, dating back to the 10th century, have been transformed into a rustic, elegant boutique hotel, comprising 41 suites with panoramic views of the 100 acres of vineyards. Dine in the Ristorante Tosca, serving the freshest Tuscan cuisine, or enjoy the onsite gourmet pizzeria. A wealth of activities will keep your family entertained, from outdoor concerts and art exhibitions on the estate, to vineyard and bike tours for those wishing to explore more of Tuscany.
If you want to ensure your holiday starts off on the right foot, there’s a new VIP option available at Heathrow (even if you’re not royalty or a head of state). The Heathrow by Invitation (HBI) service offers exclusive VIP suites, completely separate from the main airport. Benefits include a secluded kerbside drop-off and pick-up point; exclusive terminal entrance; a luxurious private suite where VIP hosts speed up private check-in, luggage drop-off, customs and passport control; a private security search area; and onward travel by limousine or helicopter. Tom Lomax, VIP Services Manager, commented: “Heathrow’s VIP service offers the ultimate in luxury, convenience and privacy... We want to offer something unique to passengers who attract them out of their private or corporate jets and back onto Heathrow’s scheduled airlines’ premium cabins”. If you value privacy and convenience, this is an ideal service.
www.castellodicasole.com
www.heathrowbyinvitation.com
Secret Sanctuary Just a 90 minute drive from the south of Munich and discreetly nestled at the foot of the Wetterstein Mountain Range, the award-winning Schloss Elmau Luxury Spa & Cultural Hideaway in the southern German state of Bavaria is ideal for spa enthusiasts and avid readers. Famous for possessing the largest spa in Europe, taking up an expansive four floors, the impressive site also has two libraries, the largest hotel book shop in the world and its very own Concert Hall where approximately 200 musical and literary events are held year-round. The hotel boasts six outstanding restaurants, one of which has a Michelin Star. This is where hiking, biking, skiing and golf meet concerts, lectures, books and the body beautiful. Schloss Elmau Luxury Spa & Cultural Hideaway www.schloss-elmau.de
Tuscan Treasure
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TRAVEL
ThE
Great British hoLidAy
The UK boasts some of the finest hideaways in the world. From ultra-modern spas, gastronomic boltholes and designer hotels, ANGELINA VILLA-CLARKE hunts out the best offerings, meaning you won’t have to venture far this summer
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Special Spas
Gone are the days when you had to go abroad for a rejuvenating break in a luxury spa. Once the domain of countries such as Italy and Switzerland, the British Isles are now gaining a reputation for their top-notch retreats offering second-to-none facilities, body enhancing treatments and five-star comfort.
Fletcher ’s cottage spa, east lothian, scotland Although it has just opened, The Fletcher’s Cottage Spa in Scotland certainly has a traditional appeal. It is located in the renowned Archerfield Links Golf Club, a Grade I listed property set in a magnificent estate known for its world-class golf course and incredible views of Fidra Island and the Fife coastline beyond. Rich in ancient heritage, the house boasts a roll-call of past guests, including Mary Queen of Scots and Sir Winston Churchill, that would make any swish hotelier green-eyed with envy, not to mention the roaring fires, antiques and lofty rooms dating back to the 17th century. While its past is certainly impressive, it’s the new developments that will impress modernday guests. Relaunching as a lifestyle destination, under the name Archerfield House, the hotel features at its heart the stunning showpiece that is the £3 million Fletcher’s Cottage Spa. The brainchild of Sian Parry Jones (known for her work with Urban Retreat and Aveda), it’s a unique rustic-luxury offering, using reclaimed and rough-hewn materials to reflect an ethical approach to wellbeing. Natural stone, bricks, walls of logs and solid wood floors are set against oversized fireplaces and walled gardens, lights are suspended on hessian ropes and the relaxation zone has a feature wall made from recycled potato boxes stamped with local farmers’ names. Holistic and therapeutic treatments include facials from Spiezia Organics, massages and detoxing seaweed wraps from Voya, as well as a whole range of treats from Aromatherapy Associates. Wrapped up in a handmade Kenyan bathrobe with your own personalised iPod for company, relax in the Rasul Mud Cure Room, the Marine Steam Room, the Himalayan Salt Room or the Herb Aroma Sauna. There are even private, wooden bath huts for those who truly want to get away from it all. While an earthy attitude is at the centre of the Cottage’s ethos, it would be a mistake to think this is not a luxury offering. An exclusive range of organic, African-inspired fragrances is on offer from artisan perfumer Tammy Frazer, while personal spa butlers will attend to your every whim. www.archerfieldgolfclub.com
the herb house at lime Wood hotel, lyndhurst, hampshire Tucked away in the heart of the New Forest, Lime Wood Hotel opened to much acclaim in November 2009. A modern take on the country house hotel, it is a quirky and laidback boutique retreat with impressive interiors designed by David Collins and a glamorous clientele. In the same way that Lime Wood has given a fresh approach to rural hospitality, its destination spa is just as innovative. Inspired by the verdant surroundings, the three-storey Herb House highlights include a huge ‘forest sauna’, a rooftop herb garden where guests can meditate and spacious, light-filled treatment rooms. Natural woods, slate and the scent of herbal infusions bring the outdoors inside, while guests wanting to feel at one with nature can be pampered in the luxurious Bath Garden – a double treatment room with its own alfresco bubbling pool. Inventive signature treatments include the Forest Dream, which features a four-hand massage and third-eye oil therapy, and Chocolate Indulgence, an Arabian-inspired treatment that uses a mocha body scrub and chocolate rasul mud to detox the body. Fitness fiends can work out in the roof-top gym with its forest views and state-of-the-art equipment, while beauty connoisseurs will be thrilled by the use of British boutique brands, such as seaweed experts Voya, natural skincare by NUDE and Ayurvedic products by Tri Dosha. The Herb House is also the first spa to offer coveted Bamford spa treatments outside of the original Gloucestershire ‘Hay Barn’ spa. Factor in the steaming hot pool, the Raw Bar, thermal rooms and the spa’s life-style assessment programme and you’ll find you’ve discovered the ultimate feel-good place. www.limewoodhotel.co.uk
TRAVEL
Coworth Park, asCot, Berkshire Those who enjoy one of our best-loved, grand-dame London hotels, The Dorchester, will no doubt be tempted (not too far, mind) from its grand environs in Mayfair to its sister property on the borders of Windsor Great Park. While Coworth Park has borrowed the best of the traditions associated with The Dorchester (the best service, elegant surroundings and sublime restaurant offerings), it has also broken the mould when it comes to the typical country house hotel. Take the design philosophy, for instance. While Fox Linton Associates gives a nod to the house’s Georgian origins, it has steered clear of any twee clichés. There are no deep-pile carpets and heavy curtains here. Minimalist lines and simplicity are the orders of the day – a backdrop, in fact, to the beautiful setting in which Coworth Park is found. The hotel is nestled in 240 acres of glorious parkland, which is home to wild-flower meadows, a lime grove, sunken gardens, polo fields and an equestrian centre. The property also breaks new ground by offering up impressive eco-credentials. It has a bio mass boiler to reduce energy waste and a ground source water circulation system for cooling the hotel. Furthermore, the Spa at Coworth continues the eco-luxury theme. It’s the world’s first hotel spa to offer treatments by Dr. Alkaitis, renowned for his 100 per cent organic, paraben-free ingredients and simple yet effective approach. Much like the hotel itself. www.coworthpark.com
Design in the Country
Cutting edge architecture, contemporary art, Michelin-starred restaurants… These days, country house hotels are bringing urban thrills to our rural landscape and tempting sophisticated townies to rest their heads outside of the city, ensuring the best of both worlds is on offer for guests with the highest standards.
syon Park, Middlesex Found on the outskirts of west London, Syon Park doesn’t have to tempt urbanites too far for a sojourn in its idyllic pastoral setting. Part of the Waldorf Astoria Group, the hotel is set in the historic 200-acre Syon Park Estate, owned by the Duke of Northumberland, and in the year since its opening it has become an easily-accessible getaway for Londoners. While the original New York Waldorf Astoria is legendary, the latest addition to the portfolio feels a bit like its younger, cheekier cousin. There’s a playfulness about the interiors here, from the eye-popping Warhol portraits and the lime sofas in the bar to the birdsong you can hear along the glass walkways. It’s fun. So too are the huge amount of activities on offer: cycling, trout-fishing and foraging with a chef, to name but a few. Guests’ room keys even open a secret gate in the hotel, allowing them to venture into the Duke’s private gardens. Inside, the town-meets-country theme is reflected everywhere. Paying homage to the butterfly house that once occupied the site, the fluttery insects are a frequent motif, seen on the menus and the Villeroy and Boch china, while the Kallima spa is named after a species. The lobby even houses its own butterfly house, home to exotic species such as the Red Postman and Passion Flower. At its core Syon Park calls on the current vogue for championing all things local. Chefs cultivate their own kitchen gardens and use the estate’s trout-lake, beehives and a huge glasshouse teaming with produce for their dishes. Even the Peacock Alley bar uses herbs, spices and fruits from the gardens in a dazzling array of home-madeliquers, infusions and cocktails. Simply delicious. www.londonsyonpark.com
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TRAVEL
Culinary Wonders
The Channel Islands and The Scilly Isles are causing an unlikely stir among gastronomes. As well as offering fantastic home-grown fare, their temperate climates mean that when it comes to travel, you don’t have to venture far to have your cake and eat it, too.
The ATlAnTic, J ersey Think of Jersey, and you would be forgiven for thinking of old-fashioned seaside hotels and dreary restaurants. But you’d be wrong. For foodies and sybarites alike, Jersey is a wonderful gem of a destination, which has undergone a culinary revolution over the past few years. The island’s sparkling centerpiece is the family-owned The Atlantic Hotel. With its Art Deco leanings, dramatic sea setting overlooking the crashing waves of the Atlantic and five miles of sandy beaches, there’s something of the elegant ocean liner about its decor. Rooms are understated and chic, boasting mirrored furniture, marble bathrooms and chrome and oak details. Full-height windows and balconies make the most of the seaside location. But here it’s the food that truly has the wow-factor. The Ocean Restaurant has possibly the best view in Jersey and the best dishes, too. Boasting a Michelin star and four AA rosettes, executive head chef Mark Jordan serves up a variety of local delicacies from his local larder. Tastebud popping treats include fillet of Jersey sole, crab crushed Jersey Royals, fennel herb and sauce Grenoble, lobster ravioli and Jersey black butter ice cream. Head sommelier, Sergio dos Santos, meanwhile, will tempt you with a huge choice of stellar wines to match your choices. Visit during May and you’ll be able to join in the week-long food festival that is Taste the Real Jersey (19-27 May). Local farmers, chefs and restaurateurs are on hand with an array of foodie experiences – from behind the scenes tours of seafood and dairy producers, to one-off tasting events. www.theatlantichotel.com
The isles
of
scill y
Who knew the Isles of Scilly were the UK’s latest foodie hotspot? Due to their unique position and climate, off the coast of Cornwall, the six islands are covered with a multitude of terrains and habitats (from dune-backed beaches to craggy rock-pools, rambling moorland and country lanes) where all manner of flora, fauna, fruits and crustaceans can be found. Hell Bay Hotel, on the tiny island of Bryher, is taking full advantage of its surroundings and the current trend for ‘field to fork’ cuisine with its new Wild Food Foraging Break (21-24 April). The coastal-chic hotel has employed wild food expert Rachel Lambert to showcase the best the isles have to offer in terms of diversity and quality of produce. With a choice of two walks per day, guests can then take their finds – including rare plants, crab and seaweed – back to the hotel’s kitchen where head chef Glenn Gatland puts them to good use in producing an elegant dinner in the three AA rosette restaurant. With its laid-back Hamptons’ vibe and clement weather, meals here are eaten alfresco, overlooking Bishop Rock lighthouse and far out to sea. The tiny island of Tresco, meanwhile, is the only privately owned island in the Scillies, having been part of the Dorrien Smith family since the early part of the 19th century. With its unspoilt beaches, clear azure waters and exotic gardens, it’s a gorgeous little haven and can be reached by ferry, boat or helicopter from Penzance. Launching in May are the new Sea Garden Cottages, the final stage of the transformation of the renowned Island Hotel. The revamp includes new suites and cottages which have been introduced to expand the accommodation offering on Tresco. To complete the renovation, The Ruin is a new beachfront restaurant built in the ruins of a smuggler’s hideaway and it will serve freshly caught fresh and local produce cooked in its wood-fired oven. www.hellbay.co.uk www.tresco.co.uk
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arrive and revive
The ‘Alm’ we hiked to today was an insider tip from our host. The view from here of sun-kissed mountain peaks reaching for the sky is simply spellbinding. We feel totally free, nearly giddy with joy. We might even spend the night up here. Just like the dairy maid. For information about holidays in Austria, visit www.austria.info/treasures or call 0845 101 1818
The Giri Residence
Ibiza
rocks
AnnAbel HArrison revisits the jewel in the Balearics’ crown, casting off memories of childhood holidays in favour of exploring the multi-faceted island’s luxurious side. As long as you’re looking for sun, there is something here for everyone
TRAVEL
IT’S 14 yeaRS SInce I’ve been to Ibiza. Memories of idyllic summer holidays in cala Llonga are filled with pedaloes and pesetas, a wholesome, family-friendly image. Since then, it hasn’t escaped my notice (or that of the rest of the world) that Ibiza’s big draw is the clubbing scene, which makes sense of vague recollections of fluoro-lycra party garb I’d seen as a child on excursions to Ibiza Town. But on closer inspection, these two extremes have a treasure trove of options in between for visitors not keen to party in Pacha and lacking a handful of children to amuse. The popularity of the third largest Balearic isle (the ‘season’ of which stretches from easter to October) is no doubt due to the fact that the Ibizencans have gone all out to cater for every type of visitor – and it shows. From clubbing to culture, fine dining to dancing and spa-going to cycling, the expression ‘spoilt for choice’ can’t help but spring to mind. as the island is so small (there are only three main roads and you can’t drive more than 41 kilometres in any one direction), transfers are quick and travel is easy. you’ll be absorbed at once by clear blue skies, stretches of
cerulean sea and enveloping warmth. Hire a car and explore for yourself; book a guide and driver to do the hard work for you; splash out on cabs here, there and everywhere; or take the healthier, more scenic option of cycling. The island’s history is rich with the influence of the Phoenicians, who arrived 27 centuries ago and dedicated it to their god of music and dance, Bes. Ibiza is habitually linked to hippies, albeit wealthy ones; they arrived in their droves in 1978 and never left. Indeed, the vibe of the island reverberates (slowly, for speed is as foreign to the Ibizencans as a lack of spirituality) with a casual, happy, hippy resonance and even the architecture is sympathetic to this. as our wonderful guide Dominique says, ‘things go… slowly here’. Dominique also instructs us, in keeping with the fashion ethos of the island: “Wear whatever you want, as long as you look good.” This mentality applies just as much to the hotels scattered over the island; hugely different but all equally cool, they make and break their own rules. I can’t choose one favourite, so here are two from the best of the bunch.
The Luxury Of Nature
Boutique Beautiful
My first impression of this rural hotel and spa, formerly a farm, is that it is almost too immaculate to be true. The buildings, pristine white cubes with smooth walls and curved edges, look as though they have been crafted out of icing for a particularly beautiful wedding cake. Dotted amongst them are picture-perfect orange and lemon trees, as well as an olive tree believed to be 1,000 years old and rolling hills. With 17 rooms, the peacefulness is overwhelming, in a relaxing way, perfect for couples seeking solitude. Rooms offer exclusivity, elegance and comfort, as well as privacy, but you will certainly be tempted out by the spa with its modern thermal circuit, the tranquil, pretty pool area and prestigious restaurant. For an alternative to a romantic stroll, ride on horseback along ancient mule tracks. The hotel believes in the luxury of nature and, after a stay at can curreu, you will too.
Its delightful owners describe The Giri as “hippy chic with a big city touch”. Indeed, I adore this place and photos don’t do it justice. With just five suites, it feels like you’re staying in a very luxurious private house, which is, quite simply, the epitome of cool. Owners Lars and Rosa have done an incredible job with the décor: despite splashes of Scandinavian minimalism, Balinese comfort and Moroccan detailing, somehow The Giri exudes Ibicenco soul. I find myself wanting to reach out and touch everything because of the wonderfully original use of clashing, tactile textures; granite and wood, bamboo and stone, marble and glass. The colours are also perfectly eclectic: gold, slate, cerulean, grape, oak, sand. Service is impeccable, thanks to a staff to guest ratio of 1:1 and if you want to use the incredible spa, it’s “yours while you’re here” – exclusive use and privacy galore. I have never experienced anything quite like The Giri.
www.cancurreu.com
www.thegiri.com
Can Curreu, Sant CarleS
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date for the diary:
A Royal Occasion a gem in the British social calendar is fast approaching and its hospitality team is set to provide the very best in British produce and culinary flair
There are few sporting venues that can equal the rich heritage of ascot. Brought into existence by Queen anne in 1711, it is no wonder we associate the world-famous horse racing event with refinement and elegance. To continue in this tradition, royal ascot hospitality is offering the finest catering for its 2012 event. head Chef, Mark Sargeant and executive Chef, Steve Golding, are offering a unique take on modern British cuisine. Together, they have concocted signature summer dishes which will be served across the Grandstand restaurants, including steaming hot shells, a light crab salad and a wild raspberry and white chocolate daiquiri. adding to the decadence, seafood specialist Caviar house is hosting an exclusive bar; spoonfuls of the luxury
the KENSINGTON & CHELSEA magazine
delicacy will be placed on top of filled glasses of champagne to assist in washing the delectable treat down. It would not be a truly British occasion without an area specially catering for afternoon tea. adding a playful spin on sartorial elegance, Steve Golding has invented the Top hat Tea, inspired by the milliner Stephen Jones; served in the Private Boxes, pastries are positioned on the rim of chocolate top hats. finally, in honour of the Queen’s Jubilee, windsor & eton Brewery is toasting the monarch with the launch of its five ales. Tuesday 19 June – Saturday 23 June www.ascot.co.uk
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Drinking &
D ining “There is no love sincerer than the love of food” – George Bernard Shaw
When East Meets West
February saw the opening of Meursault, a bar and dining room which is sister to L’etranger restaurant, named after the main character in Camus’s novel of the same name and housed in the very same building. Having sampled the menu, we can confirm that this is the place to dine; whether you feel like platters, a three course meal or dessert cocktails, the French and Japanese inspired menu caters to everyone. Highly recommended are the exquisite caramelised Alaskan black cod, the mini burger platter (Wagyu beef, venison, Dorset crab and lobster) and the tartar platter (scallops, tuna and Wagyu beef). Expect to be surprised by eclectic macaroon flavours, such as salted caramel and Coca-Cola, and to rethink the weight of your own hefty cutlery after holding the perfectly sized silver-slivers of knife and fork. Meursault 36 Gloucester Road, South Kensington, SW7 4QT 020 7584 9719; www.meursaultlondon.co.uk
Refuelling After A Cultural Day Out
“If a painting is worth a thousand words, then lunch at the Lecture Room & Library should be worth a thousand more…” Until 9 April, Sketch bar in Mayfair is offering a Champagne three-course gourmet lunch in the Michelin-starred Library & Lecture Room, combined with a ticket for David Hockney’s much-celebrated A Bigger Picture exhibition at The Royal Academy of Arts, for £48 per person. Starters include a combination of four delicious dishes and main courses offer fish, meat or vegetarian options. A Bigger Picture is the first major UK exhibition of David Hockney’s landscape work, definitely not to be missed.
Holy Smoke Set within the Chelsea Cloisters on Sloane Avenue, the patrons of Barts bar and restaurant generally consist of fashionable Chelsea dwellers looking for a discreet watering hole away from the hustle and bustle of the KR. This month, the bar has unveiled its latest venture; tobacco-infused cocktails. Claiming to provide smokers with the necessary fix without ever having to venture outside, and minus the associated health risks, they didn’t quite do the trick for our tester. On the other hand, with quirky names including The Cig’nature Cocktail, In Vogue and Holy Smoke, they are fun, fruity and surprisingly strong alternatives to the standard G&T, and very appropriate to the exclusive 1920s-inspired ambience. Barts, Chelsea Cloisters 87 Sloane Avenue, SW3 3DW 020 7581 3355 www.barts-london.com
9 Conduit Street, W1S 2XG 020 7659 4500; www.sketch.uk.com
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(More)Drinking &
Din in g All Things Spice
Chakra is already the locals’ favourite, just two months after opening, and it’s not hard to see why. Split into two bijou dining rooms, the first in cream and the second in rich chocolate brown, it’s ideal for those wanting an intimate dining experience. The menu is split into five sections and you’re asked to share each dish so you can try a bit of everything. To start, the grilled lamb chops, flavoured with garlic and coriander, are light and tender. From the grill, the caramelised tandoori black cod fillet was cooked to perfection, melting in the mouth and a great modern twist on the traditional Asian dish. Finish with a palate-cleansing pistachio ice-cream. Chakra, 157-159 Notting Hill Gate, W11 3LF 020 7229 2115 www.chakralondon.com
Easter at…
indulge in…
Supper at…
Fortnum & mason
LoLa’s CupCakes
sCaLini
With Easter fast approaching, Fortnum & Mason is hosting a selection of fun-filled events for your family to enjoy. With hot cross bun demonstrations taking place on Tuesday 20 March and a biscuit decorating masterclass on Tuesday 29 March at 2pm, explore your creative side and acquire some delectable Easter recipes in the process. Alternatively, peruse the collection of Easterthemed food, hampers and hand-decorated Easter eggs for thoughtful gift purchases.
For those who are lactose intolerant, Easter has never been the best of times. Until, that is, Lactofree joined up with Lola’s Cupcakes to create the latest Lactofree strawberry delight cupcake. A delicate mix of a strawberry and vanilla sponge base, strawberry butter cream and a fresh strawberry to finish it off, the delicious treats do not leave you with any of the side effects usually associated with lactose-filled produce. These are available on sale in Lola’s concessions and online throughout March.
If you’ve had your fair share of sweet treats this Easter and are in the mood for something more sophisticated, Scalini is the perfect choice. Never seeming to go out of fashion with Chelsea residents, Valerio Calzolari and his team pride themselves on delivering the finest in Italian cuisine. Year-round favourites include calf’s liver with polenta and skate with capers. If you are looking for a more intimate occasion, the popular Walton Street restaurant recently opened a private dining room.
www.fortnumandmason.com
Find Lola’s in Harrods’ Food Halls www.lolas-kitchen.co.uk
Scalini, 1-3 Walton Street, SW3 2JD 020 7225 2301; www.scalinionline.com
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the KENSINGTON & CHELSEA magazine
Friday 8TH JUNE 2012
City Friday & Polo Party at MINT Polo In The Park THE HURLINGHAM CLUB & PARK, FULHAM, LONDON SW6 FRIDAY 8TH JUNE 2012 CITY FRIDAY & ‘VEUVE CLICQUOT AT HURLINGHAM’ PARTY
‘The Best Corporate Day Out’ - as voted by CITY AM Winner of ‘Best Sports Attraction’ - London Lifestyle Awards 2010 & 2011 This sensational three day event kicks off the weekend with a fabulous corporate day offering world class polo from six international teams, with fully inclusive hospitality plus the new ‘Veuve Clicquot at Hurlingham’ evening launch party. Enjoy a classic British summer day out; three polo matches, Veuve Clicquot Champagne, lunch at the iconic Hurlingham Club - the historic home of polo - a quintessential afternoon cream tea and to finish the day off, a rocking party with live music and guest DJ’s.
Prices start from just £185 plus VAT per person. For more details or to book, telephone 0207 936 5284 or email: rachel@ cityevents.uk.com.
www.mintpolointhepark.com
Photography: Dave Benett/Getty Images Gillian Anderson and Meryl Streep
Kenneth Branagh and Lindsay Brunnock
Silver Screen Success
Following a pre-BAFTA awards dinner for Harvey Weinstein at Dean Street Townhouse, the winners of this year’s BAFTAs toasted their success with GREY GOOSE Le Fizz cocktails as they celebrated and danced into the early hours of the morning at the GREY GOOSE After Party at Le Baron. Jubilant BAFTA winners Jean Dujardin (Best Actor - The Artist), Meryl Streep (Best Actress - The Iron Lady), Michel Hazanavicius (Best Director - The Artist), Octavia Spencer (Best Supporting Actress - The Help) were all in attendance. Michel Hazanavicius and Harvey Weinstein
Eddie Redmayne
Jessica Brown Findlay
Olivia Williams
Jean Dujardin and Alexandra Lamy
Claudia Winkleman
Michael Fassbender and his father Berenice Marlohe
Cuba Gooding Jnr and Naomi Campbell
Ralph Fiennes
LONDON LIVING Katy Perry
Andrea Riseborough
Berenice Bejo
Cisely Saldana and Zoe Saldana Lulu
Tony Bennett
Jean Dujardin and Alexandra Lamy
The Duchess of Cornwall
Holly Valance and Nick Candy Uggie
Red CarpetGlamour A night of A-list glamour, the winners and nominees of the Oscars sipped cocktails at the Soho House West Hollywood party, hosted by The Weinstein Company. The Artist’s Jean Dujardin, Berenice Bejo and Uggie mingled with music royalty Katy Perry and the brilliant Tony Bennett, who delighted guests with a live performance of Autumn Leaves from My Week With Marilyn. The guestlist also included Meryl Streep, Kenneth Branagh, Casey Affleck, Emile Hirsch, and Zoe Saldana.
Abbie Cornish
the KENSINGTON & CHELSEA magazine
121
Photography: Dave Benett
Damien Hirst
Cara Delevingne
Jaime Winston
Mary Charteris
Jo Wood
Nick Grimshaw and Annie Mac
Christina Hendricks and Vivienne Westwood
Photography: Dave Benett
Livia Firth
Daisy Lowe
Erin O’Connor
Kate Halfpenny, Livia Firth and Erin O’Connor
Donna Air
Emilia Fox
LONDON LIVING
Photography: Nick Harvey Twiggy and Matthew Williamson
Scarlett Etienne
Model Matthew Williamson Matthew Williamson Model
Scarlett Etienne
Suki Waterhouse and Mary Charteris
Photography: John Furniss
Amber Atherton
Caroline Issa
Zara Martin
Party in Style London’s A/W12 Fashion Week wrapped up with a host of Belvedere-sponsored events attended by glitterati across the capital. The Best of British exhibition at The Shop at Bluebird was attended by Made in Chelsea’s up-and-coming jewellery designer Amber Atherton. For the launch of Erin O’Connor’s brand, She Died Of Beauty, the supermodel was joined by Emilia Fox and Livia Firth. For Vivienne Westwood’s after-party, hip nightclub The Box was the preferred haunt of Damien Hirst and Florence Welch. Finally, in celebration of Matthew Williamson’s latest collection, British icon Twiggy partied with DJ Scarlet Etienne at top London restaurant Nobu.
the KENSINGTON & CHELSEA magazine
123
LONDON LIVING Princess of Monaco and Cherie Blair
Alek Wek and Rosario Dawson
Here Come The Girls This breakfast, opened by Nick Clegg, saw the WIE Symposium honour the WIE50, 50 inspirational women in business, on 8 March, International Women’s Day. WIE awards, commending women who have been trailblazers in their fields, were presented to Doreen Lawrence OBE (Outstanding Leadership award), Jane Goodall (Vanguard award), Shingai Shoniwa (Young Iconoclast award) and Cherie Blair (Humanitarian award). Special commendation was given to legendary British designer and businesswoman Dame Vivienne Westwood, winner of the WIE icon award.
Vivienne Westwood
Ed Miliband and Doreen Lawrence
Kelly Hoppen
Claudia Winkleman
the KENSINGTON & CHELSEA magazine
Karren Brady and Nick Clegg
June Sarpong and Jameela Jamil
124
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 Fix it quick
Dry Cleaner / Clothing repair Jeeves of Belgravia 271 Kensington High Street 020 7603 0484
Sloane Cleaners
71 Lower Sloane Street, SW1W 8DA 020 7824 8644
ShoeS reheeleD Chelsea Green Shoe Repairs 31 Elystan Street, SW3 3NT 020 7584 0776
WatCh repair
Nina Campbell 9 Walton Street, SW3 2JD 020 7225 1011 www.ninacampbell.com
OKA 103 Lancaster Road, W11 1QN 020 7792 1425 www.okadirect.com
Percy Bass
184 Walton Street, SW3 2JL 020 7589 4853 www.percybass.com
Stepevi
274 King’s Road, SW3 5AW 020 7376 7574 www.stepevi.co.uk
The Watch Gallery 129 Fulham Road, SW3 6RT 020 7581 3239 www.thewatchgallery.co.uk
Land, sea and air
Watches of Switzerland
Avolus Ltd
69 Brompton Road, SW3 1DB 020 7581 7037
interiors
Dragons of Walton Street
23 Walton Street, SW3 2HX 020 7589 3795 www.dragonsofwaltonstreet.com
Katherine Pooley 160 Walton Street, SW3 2JL 020 7584 3223 www.katherinepooley.co.uk
Louise Bradley
Kimbolton Court, 117b Fulham Road, SW3 6RL 020 7589 1442 www.louisebradley.co.uk
Charter a heliCopter
38 Lombard Road, SW11 3RP 020 7978 6506 www.avolus.com
London Battersea Heliport
loCal Chauffeur UK Chauffeurs 020 3326 0513 www.ukchauffeursltd.co.uk
Executive Cars
020 3170 5838 www.executive-cars-london.com
Kensington Nannies 3 Hornton Place, W8 4LZ 020 7937 3299 www.kensington-nannies.com
DentiSt The Beresford Clinic 2 Lower Grosvenor Place London SW1W 0EJ 020 7821 9411
Bridges Wharf, Battersea, SW11 3BE 0844 884 8660 www.batterseahelicopter.com
Crown Security Chauffeurs
luxury Car rental
private Dining room
47 Cadogan Street, SW3 2QJ 020 7581 0811
VIP Car Hire
Bar Boulud
Queen Elizabeth Street, SE1 2JE 0870 200 4949 www.vipservices.co.uk
Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park 66 Knightsbridge, SW1X 7LA 020 7201 3899 www.barboulud.com
DoCtor
Belgravia Garage
0845 901 1471 www.crown-chauffeurs.co.uk
Daphne’s
1 Eaton Mews West Belgravia, SW1W 9ET 020 7235 9900 www.belgraviagarage.com
110-112 Draycott Avenue, SW3 3AE 020 7589 4257 www.daphnes-restaurant.co.uk
yaCht Charter/Sale
tranSlator
Princess Yachts
Central Translations
64 Grosvenor Street, W1K 3JH 020 7499 5050 www.princess.co.uk
21 Woodstock Street, W1C 2AP 020 7493 5511 www.centraltranslations.co.uk
Sunseeker
Russian Business Translator
36 Davies Street, W1K 4NF 020 7355 0980 www.sunseekerlondon.com
07704 114 323 www.russiantranslatorlondon.yolasite.com
Last Minute Business
LiFe saver
international Courier
BaBy Sitter
Sending Parcels
Imperial Nannies
272 Kensington High Street 0844 257 0668 www.sendingparcels.com
17 Radley Mews, W8 6JP 020 7795 6220 nannies@imperialstaff.com
Cadogan Street Dental Office
Chelsea Consulting Rooms 2 Lower Sloane Street, SW1W 8BJ 020 7763 9100 www.chelseaconsultingrooms.com
Dr. Rakus
34A Hans Road, SW3 1RW 020 7460 7324
Medicare Francais
3 Harrington Gardens, SW7 4JJ 020 7370 4999
The Lister Hospital
Chelsea Bridge Road, SW1W 8RH 020 7730 7733 www.thelisterhospital.com
floriSt Gilding the Lily Old Brompton Road, SW7 2NB 020 7584 1950 www.gildingthelilysw7.co.uk
Only Roses
257 Old Brompton Road, SW5 9HP 020 7373 9595
the CONCIeRGe
Richard Ward 82 Duke of York Square, SW3 4LY 020 7730 1222 www.richardward.com
The Chelsea Day Spa
69a King’s Road, SW3 4NX 020 7351 0911 www.thechelseadayspa.co.uk
Cigars Tomtom Cigars and Coffee 63 Elizabeth Street, SW1W 9PP 020 7730 1790 www.tomtom.co.uk
fine Wine Handford
Urban Retreat at Harrods
87-135 Brompton Road, SW1X 7XL 020 7893 8333 www.urbanretreat.co.uk
SamPle the FineSt baCkgammon boarD Pickett
Housekeeping St. Anne’s Housekeeping 58 Kenway Road, SW5 0RA 020 7370 1359 www.stanneshousekeeping.com
personal CHef The Personal Chef 020 7871 1080 www.thepersonalchef.co.uk
personal sHopper Gabrielle Teare Kings Road, Chelsea 07985 319300 www.gabrielleteare.com
Zuma 5 Raphael Street, SW7 1DL 020 7584 1010 www.zumarestaurant.com
members Clubs Boujis 43 Thurloe Street, SW7 2LQ 020 7584 2000 www.boujis.com
Beaufort House
354 Kings Road, SW3 5UZ 020 7352 2828 www.beauforthousechelsea.co.uk
Kitts
Walk my Dog
7-12 Sloane Square, SW1W 8EG 020 7881 5990 www.kittslondon.com
Chelsea Dogs
Chelsea Arts Club
7 Chelsea Square, SW3 6LF 07786 325 053
Party time
late nigHt fooD Bibendum 81 Fulham Road, SW3 6RD 020 7581 5817 www.bibendum.co.uk
Gaucho
89 Sloane Avenue, SW3 3DX 020 7584 9901 www.gauchorestaurants.co.uk
Harvey Nichols Fifth Floor 109-125 Knightsbridge, SW1X 7RJ 020 7235 5000 www.harveynichols.com/fifth-floor-london
Launceston Place
1a Launceston Place, W8 5RL 020 7937 6912 www.launcestonplace-restaurant.co.uk
Maroush
38 Beauchamp Place, SW3 1NU 020 7581 5434 www.maroush.com
Scalini
1-3 Walton Street, SW3 2JD 020 7225 2301 www.scalinionline.com
the KENSINGTON & CHELSEA magazine
149 Sloane Street, SW1X 9BZ 020 7823 5638 www.pickett.co.uk
DeliCatessen Partridges 2-5 Duke of York Square, SW3 4LY 020 7730 7102 www.partridges.co.uk
The Sloane Club
Lower Sloane Street, SW1W 8BS 020 7730 9131 www.sloaneclub.co.uk
Vintage WatCHes Watches of Knightsbridge 64 Knightsbridge, SW1X 7JF 020 7590 3034 info@watchesofknightsbridge.com
unuSual but uSeFul
bespoke perfume & make-up Cosmetics à la Carte 19b Motcomb Street, SW1X 8LB 020 7235 0596 www.cosmeticsalacarte.com
Floris Peter Jones The Grocer on Elgin
6 Elgin Crescent, W11 2HX 020 7221 3844 www.thegroceron.com
Wholefoods Market
63-97 Kensington High Street, W8 5SE www.wholefoodsmarket.com 020 7368 4500
CHoColate L’Artisan Du Chocolat
143 Old Church Street, SW3 6EB 020 7376 3311 www.chelseaartsclub.com
105 Old Brompton Road, SW7 3LE 020 7589 6113 www.handford.net
89 Lower Sloane Street, SW1W 8DA 0845 270 6996 www.artisanduchocolat.com
Sloane Square, SW1W 8EL 020 7730 3434 www.florislondon.com
JeWellery Valuation Bourbon Handy 151 Sydney Street, SW3 6NT 020 7352 2106
Tiffany & Co 145 Sloane Street, SW1X 9BL 020 7409 2790 www.tiffany.co.uk
sHotgun repair
William Curley
A.J. Bells
198 Ebury Street 020 7730 5522 www.williamcurley.co.uk
104 Stephendale Road, SW6 2PH 07703 601 093 www.ajbell.co.uk
The Valmont Club
266- 266A Fulham Road, SW10 9EL 020 7352 6200 www.thevalmontclub.com
recharge & recuPerate Dog grooming The Mutz Nutz 221 Westbourne Park Road Notting Hill, W11 1EA 020 7243 3333 jane@themutznutz.com
HealtH anD beauty Hari’s
305 Brompton Road, SW3 2DY 020 7581 5211 www.harissalon.com
Spa at Bluebird
350 King’s Road, SW3 5UU 020 7351 3873 www.theshopatbluebird.com
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FEATURED
Estate Agents 617 Fulham Road SW6 5UQ 020 7717 5141
Henry & James
MAYFAIR 24 Curzon Street W1J 7TF 020 7499 7722
yson.com
CHELSEA 202 Fulham Road SW10 9PJ 020 7578 9000
NOTTING HILL 298 Westbourne Grove W11 2PS 020 7985 9990
KENSINGTON 145 Kensington Church Street W8 7LP 020 7535 3300
www.henryandjames.co.uk
Beauchamp Estates www.beauchamp.co.uk
KNIGHTSBRIDGE 60 Sloane Avenue SW3 3DD 020 7591 8600
CHELSEA 2 Cale Street SW3 3QU 020 7581 5011
Hamptons
www.hamptons.co.uk CHELSEA 134 Fulham Road SW10 9PY 020 7717 5291
Cadogan Square, SW1X
£1750 p.w | Furnished
John D Wood
A stunning interior designed two bedroom property on the 2nd floor of this beautiful red-brick period building. This spacious apartment, which overlooks the elegant square gardens, has been decorated and furnished in a contemporary style with parquet wood flooring in the reception and a modern semi open-plan kitchen.
Specialists in Selling
SOUTH KENSINGTON 157 Gloucester Road SW7 4TH 020 7871 4111
Reception room, two double bedrooms, two en suite bathrooms, communal gardens, resident housekeeper.
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500 per week Unfurnished 020 7243 1352 nhl.lets@faronsutaria.co.uk
EARL’S COURT 239 Earl’s Court Road SW5 9AH 020 7590 0333
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Entrance hall, open plan first floor reception room/kitchen/dining room, master bedroom with en suite bathroom and en suite shower room, second bedroom with en suite shower room, storeroom, garage
Kensington&Chelsea mag Mar12.indd 8
EAGLE PLACE, SW7
PIMLICO & WESTMINSTER 50 Belgrave Road SW1V 1RQ 020 7717 5315 SLOANE SQUARE 7 Lower Sloane Street SW1W 8AH 020 7717 5317
@Lurotbrand @LurotbrandSales @LurotBrandLets
LB MARCH 2012.indd 2-3
ylish and contemporary style mews house in South Kensington, arranged over three floors with a private ace and fully-fitted eat-in granite kitchen. Master bedroom suite, 2 further double bedrooms, bathroom.
300 per week Furnished/Unfurnished 020 7590 0333 obr.lets@faronsutaria.co.uk
NOTTING HILL OUR SERVICE WILL MOVE YOU 89 Notting Hill Gate W11 3JZ 020 7717 5109
Residential Lettings across RBK&C in Chelsea, South Kensington, Earls Court and Notting Hill
08/02/2012 13:34
Harrods Estates
A delightful triple aspect house on the corner of Roland Way and Eagle Place.
Knight Frank Reception room, dining room, kitchen, 3 bedrooms, bathroom, en-suite shower room, cloakroom, garage & private parking.
www.knightfrank.co.uk Freehold £2,500,000 STC
Lurot Brand
CORNWALL MEWS SOUTH, SW7
www.lurotbrand.co.uk
A beautifully presented, cleverly designed house in this lovely South Kensington Mews.
HYDE PARK 37-41 Sussex Place W2 2TH 020 7479 1999
www.johndwood.co.uk
WEST CHELSEA 140 Fulham Road SW10 9PY 020 7373 1111
Reception room, open-plan kitchen, master bedroom with en-suite shower, 2nd bedroom, bathroom, garage (currently used as a bedroom), roof terrace.
Freehold £1,695,000 STC
South Kensington Office 020 7590 9955
08/02/2012 13:31
SOUTH KENSINGTON 5 Kynance Place LEXHAM MEWS, W8 SW7 4QS 020 7590 9955
Presented in excellent condition, a charming mews property with a wonderfully bright first floor reception room.
South Kensington Office 020 7590 9955
Freehold £825,000 STC (JSA - WA ELLIS 020 7306 1600)
CHELSEA 352a King’s Road SW3 5UU 020 7349 4300
KNIGHTSBRIDGE 66 Sloane Street SW1X 9SH 020 7235 9959 NOTTING HILL 303 Westbourne Grove W11 2QA 020 7221 1111
Reception room with open plan kitchen, bedroom, bathroom, 2nd bedroom/ study with en-suite cloakroom.
South Kensington Office 020 7590 9955
BELGRAVIA 82-83 Chester Square SW1W 9HJ 020 7881 7722
CHELSEA 35 Cadogan Street SW3 2PP 020 7225 3866
Russell Simpson www.lurotbrand.co.uk
www.russellsimpson.co.uk CHELSEA 5 Anderson Street SW3 3LU 020 7225 0277
09/02/2012 16:33
W.A. Ellis
www.waellis.co.uk
www.harrodsestates.com
129-131 Notting Hill Gate W11 3LB 020 7717 5106
KNIGHTSBRIDGE 82 Brompton Road SW3 1ER 020 7225 6506
SOUTH KENSINGTON 115 Old Brompton Road SW7 3LE 020 7590 0333
MAYFAIR 61 Park Lane W1K 1QF 020 7409 9001
128
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CHELSEA 54-56 Lower Sloane Street SW1W 8BP 020 7730 8762
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NOTTING HILL Attracting buyers and tenants 301 Westbourne Grove from around the world W11 2QA SOUTH KENSINGTON London & Country Estate Agents 020 7717 5311 125 Gloucester Road SW7 4TE 020 7835 0000 PADDINGTON 4c Praed Street W2 1JX 020 7717 5313
www.faronsutaria.co.uk
www.struttandparker.com
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PETERSHAM PLACE, SW7
Strutt and Parker
62-64 Fulham Road SW3 6HH 020 7808 8540
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KENSINGTON 162 Kensington Church Street W8 4BN 020 7908 1100
A simply gorgeous house. Found on the north side of Petersham Place and therefore facing south, the house is flooded with light.
www.sothebysrealty.com
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KNIGHTSBRIDGE 168 Brompton Road SW3 1HW 020 7717 5307
London Sotheby’s International Realty
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&Chelsea mag Mar12.indd 19
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South Kensington Office 020 7590 9955
ronsutaria.co.uk
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KENSINGTON 8 Hornton Street W8 4NW 020 7717 5305
Freehold £2,600,000 STC
RNON YARD, W11
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NOTTING HILL 17 Kensington Park Road W11 2EU 020 7727 1717
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www.domusnova.com
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CHELSEA 9 Cale Street 3QS BSW3 iza l R GEN 020om7352 1484 E FO ke
NOTTING HILL 10 Lambton Place W11 2SH 020 7221 1117
www.johndwood.co.uk
2 Cale Street, London SW3 3QU 020 7581 5011
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www.crayson.com
8 Chertsey Street, Surrey GU1 4HD 01483 339740
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HAMPTONS COUNTRY HOUSE
SLOANE STREET 139 Sloane Street SW1X 9AY 020 7730 0822
FULHAM 203 New King’s Road SW6 4SR 020 7751 2400 KENSINGTON 54-56 Kensington Church Street W8 4DB 020 7938 4311
174 Brompton Road SW3 1HP 020 7306 1600
Savills
www.savills.co.uk
Old fashioned manners meet modern methods.
the KENSINGTON & CHELSEA magazine
At W.A.Ellis, traditional values like reliability, honesty and polite professionalism underpin our boutique service. And the same
Kensington
& Chelsea P R O P E RT Y
showcasing the
finest hoMes & PRoPeRtY fRoM the best estate agents
The
Beauty
of Kensington
Choosing the perfect property Image courtesy of Henry & James
Trevor Place KNIGHTSBRIDGE SW7
A magnificent newly refurbished Georgian house With an attractive blend of Georgian elegance and classical contemporary design, the house provides superb family accommodation suitable for a principal residence in this prime central London location. This handsome house has been completely refurbished to an exemplary standard including AV systems to the principal rooms, fire safety and CCTV security systems and comfort cooling. One of the unusual features is the new passenger lift which serves all floors.
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08/03/2012 13:20
DPS
• 2 first floor drawing rooms • Dining room • Family room • Media room • Study • Kitchen/breakfast room • Master bedroom suite with bathroom and dressing room • 5 further bedrooms with en suite bathrooms • Utility room • 2 guest cloakrooms • 6 person passenger lift • Comfort cooling • Garden terrace • Separate garage space held on a lease • Approximately 428 sq m (4,610 sq ft)
Freehold Guide price: £17,500,000
13:20
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08/03/2012 13:20
Park Walk Chelsea sW10 Refurbished Georgian townhouse with large garden This is a beautifully presented Grade II listed house which has been fully extended and refurbished by the current owners. They have created exceptional entertaining space including a newly constructed 33ft x 14ft reception room. There is a fabulous landscaped garden with a standalone studio at the end of it. The house now extends to approximately 2,686 sq ft with flexible bedroom accommodation and would suit a wide range of buyers.
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10:13
Approximately 250 sq m (2,686 sq ft) | Freehold | ÂŁ4,950,000
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09/03/2012 14:57
BLOOMING MARVELLOUS
Knight Frank Chelsea are celebrating 5 successful years on the King’s Road. And since opening, the Knight Frank Chelsea team have sold or let a property in every Garden Square in Chelsea - making our coverage second to none!
So whether you’re looking to buy, sell or let in Chelsea, speak to your local property experts at Knight Frank.
020 7349 4300 KnightFrank.co.uk/Chelsea
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The Chapel, Chelsea SW10
Former church development opportunity This un-modernised Grade II listed building is a former church that has planning permission to create an incredible 16,000 sq ft residence. The property is set on a good plot with lots of parking space and plenty of area that could be made in to a garden. Approximately 960 sq m (10,335 sq ft)
KnightFrank.co.uk/Chelsea chelsea@knightfrank.com 020 7349 4300
Freehold Offers in excess of ÂŁ10,000,000 (CHL070432)
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09/03/2012 15:09
Newton Road, Notting Hill W2 Immense character with parking
Absolutely charming detached house located in this highly sought after location with flexible accommodation and a 36’ garden with open aspect. Master bedroom suite, 3 further bedrooms, dressing room, double reception room, eat in kitchen, family room with kitchen, 2 shower rooms, guest cloakroom, off-street parking. Approximately 172 sq m (1,850 sq ft)
KnightFrank.co.uk/NottingHill nottinghill@knightfrank.com 020 7229 0229
Freehold Guide price: ÂŁ2,750,000 (NGH120012)
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DP
Douro Place, Kensington W8
Four bedroom house in Kensington’s Vallotton Estate A beautifully presented house set over four floors which has a generous garden and offers fantastic entertaining/family space. Master bedroom with en suite and dressing area, 3 further bedrooms, bathroom, reception room, family/dining room, kitchen, utility room, wine cellar/store, garden, off-street parking. Approximately 244 sq m (2,631 sq ft)
KnightFrank.co.uk/Kensington kens@knightfrank.com 020 7938 4311
Freehold Guide price: ÂŁ5,950,000 (KEN120020)
15:12
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Ensor Mews, South Kensington SW7 Stunning mews house with garage and patio
A superb mews house which is presented in fantastic order and profits from the rare benefit of a private patio. Master bedroom suite, second bedroom suite, bedroom 3/ study, reception/dining area, kitchen, garage, cloakroom. Approximately 160 sq m (1,724 sq ft)
KnightFrank.co.uk/South-Kensington southkensington@knightfrank.com 020 7871 4111
Freehold Guide price: ÂŁ3,450,000 (CHL110070)
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Queen’s Gate, South Kensington SW7 Stunning maisonette in the heart of SW7
Superb duplex apartment presented in wonderful order throughout and located on the top two floors of a well maintained period building. Master bedroom suite with dressing area, guest bedroom suite, 2 further bedrooms, further bathroom, drawing room, dining room, kitchen, utility room. Approximately 274.6 sq m (2,956 sq ft)
KnightFrank.co.uk/South-Kensington southkensington@knightfrank.com 020 7871 4111
Leasehold Guide price: ÂŁ5,495,000 (POD120021)
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Lowndes Square, Knightsbridge SW1X Lateral space
Ideal for entertaining with three large reception rooms overlooking the square gardens. 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, 3 large reception rooms, eat-in kitchen, library/ study, entrance hall, cloakroom, lift, porter and access to communal gardens. Approximately 345 sq m (3,711 sq ft) Available unfurnished ÂŁ6,000 per week
Knightsbridge Lettings KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings knightsbridgelettings@knightfrank.com 020 7591 8601 (158782)
One Hyde Park, Knightsbridge SW1X Luxury living
Exceptional four bedroom apartment overlooking the Serpentine and Hyde Park. 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 2 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, cloakroom, utility room, underground parking and extensive amenities including 24 hour concierge, Mandarin Oriental service and exclusive leisure/spa services. Approximately 367 sq m (3,948 sq ft) Available furnished ÂŁ25,000 per week
Knightsbridge Lettings KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings knightsbridgelettings@knightfrank.com 020 7591 8601 (153047)
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15:01
Wycombe Square, Kensington W8 A beautiful family house in a secure development
Located in a prime position in Kensington close to Holland Park, this house is immaculately presented with good entertaining space and family accommodation. 6 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, double drawing room, dining room, kitchen, family room, TV room, patio, terrace, roof terrace, garage. Approximately 491 sq m (5,288 sq ft) Available furnished
Kensington Lettings KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings kensingtonlettings@knightfrank.com 020 7937 8203
ÂŁ8,500 per week (123581)
DPS6 RHP 272057 Kens and Chelsea April 12 KFrank.indd 1
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Clanricarde Gardens, Notting Hill W2
Bridstow Place, Notting Hill W2
A charming one bedroom flat with elegant cornicing and tall French windows that opens out onto a balcony. Accommodation comprises bedroom, bathroom, open plan kitchen/reception room, first floor.
A refurbished cottage with off-street parking. Accommodation comprises 2 bedrooms, bathroom/shower room, reception room, kitchen, roof terrace. Approximately 69.95 sq m (752.93 sq ft)
Available furnished
Available furnished
£595 per week
£925 per week
Notting Hill Lettings KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings 020 7985 9990 nottinghilllettings@knightfrank.com
Notting Hill Lettings KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings 020 7985 9990 nottinghilllettings@knightfrank.com
Stanley Gardens, Notting Hill W11
Palace Court, Notting Hill W2
An outstanding flat with exquisite period features. Accommodation comprises 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, reception room, kitchen, dressing room, balcony, access to communal gardens. Approximately 127 sq m (1,361 sq ft)
An immaculate apartment to rent in prime Notting Hill. Accommodation comprises 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, reception room, kitchen, balcony, porter, lift, 3rd floor. Approximately 206 sq m (2,220 sq ft)
Available furnished
Available unfurnished
£1,600 per week
£3,000 per week
Notting Hill Lettings KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings 020 7985 9990 nottinghilllettings@knightfrank.com
Notting Hill Lettings KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings 020 7985 9990 nottinghilllettings@knightfrank.com
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PROPERTY
Expert Comment LETTINGS:
SALES:
Springing Into Action
A Year of Celebration
Karen Kaldezar, Head of Lettings at Faron Sutaria’s Flagship office in South Kensington, has a spring in her step
andy Buchanan, Director of John D Wood & Co. and Manager of the Chelsea Office, comments on the current state of the market
I love this time of year. Where better to observe spring blossoming than in the Royal Borough? There will be some things that you can be certain of: cherry blossom will decorate Dawson Place; the spring sunshine will sparkle on the iconic Albert Memorial; the fashionistas will take up their positions at La Bottega; and the birds will tweet their sweet song in the myriad square gardens. Due to the current economic climate, we can also be certain that the dynamic lettings market will change from week to week, although historic evidence shows that rents hold firm as we go into the spring market and into autumn and stock levels decrease. The core market, between £300 and £1,000 per week, will always see demand, particularly in the RBKC. However we need to use experience and know-how to navigate through the lettings process and achieve success by setting the right price point and being smart. The delicate balance between landlords’ expectations and the will of the tenants to contain costs is particularly acute now. At Faron Sutaria we understand this market well, and create excellent results for our clients: for example, a one-bedroom flat in Elm Park Gardens let within 24 hours of marketing with no void period for the landlord. By working closely with our sales teams and an independent financial advisor we are also able to offer new landlords a seamless acquisitions service from finance, sourcing the ideal buy-to-let investment right through to finding a tenant, something we have successfully achieved recently for international clients in Queen’s Gate, SW7 and Onslow Gardens, SW7. With our newly refurbished offices in South Kensington, Earl’s Court, Notting Hill and Chelsea we are ready to spring into action.
2012 is a year of celebration with the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, the 2012 Olympics and John D Wood & Co.’s 140th year as one of the leading central London estate agents. I have been an estate agent in the Chelsea market since 1971 and have seen this resilient market perform reliably, often counter to misleading data which is used by so many buyers today. We have found during harder times the property market is underpinned by a lack of committed sellers, which results in supply shrinking as demand reduces, thus maintaining prices. Today, with so much interest being funnelled into such a small and desirable area, it is little wonder that demand frequently outstrips supply, so we are here to help. In 2011 we witnessed “wealth sheltering” in the central London property market, both from international and British buyers. The European financial crisis and the Arab Spring drove enquiries from overseas buyers looking to invest in prime or interesting residential property. British investors, motivated to protect their investments and achieve some sort of return with inflation running at 5 per cent or more whilst the Bank of England base rate remained at 0.5 per cent, followed suit. This high demand was translated into many astonishing sales in all categories; achieving prices at new record levels. This year has started extremely well with the channelling of bonuses, inheritance and company sales into the property market, whilst we continue to see strong interest from abroad. With the Budget on the horizon there is much debate about the issues affecting our market, including Stamp Duty avoidance and Capital Gains Tax. It will be interesting to see how these will impact on the property market in central London in the forthcoming months. I cannot see any reason for the powerful Chelsea market not to continue to flourish.
Faron Sutaria 020 7590 0300 www.faronsutaria.co.uk
John D Wood & Co. 020 7352 1484 www.johndwood.co.uk
the KENSINGTON & CHELSEA magazine
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savills.co.uk
1 BEAUTIFULLY PRESENTED PERIOD HOUSE WITH PATIO GARDEN kensington court place, w8 Double reception room ø further reception room ø kitchen/dining room ø master bedroom with en suite bathroom ø 3 further bedrooms ø shower room ø guest cloakroom ø utility room ø storage ø patio garden ø 186 sq m (2,003 sq ft)
Guide £2.95 million Freehold
Savills Kensington Sarah Birch sbirch@savills.com
020 7535 3300
savills.co.uk
1 WONDERFUL LIVING SPACE IN A CLASSIC PORTERED MANSION BUILDING moscow road, w2 Double reception room ø further reception room ø kitchen/breakfast room ø master bedroom with en suite bathroom ø 2 further bedrooms both with en suite bathrooms ø 2 balconies ø porter ø lift ø 228 sq m (2,455 sq ft) Price on application Leasehold, approximately 997 years remaining plus Share of Freehold
Savills Kensington Stephen Holmes sholmes@savills.com
020 7535 3300
savills.co.uk
1 SPACIOUS LATERAL FLAT EXCELLENTLY LOCATED CLOSE TO HYDE PARK queen's gate, sw7 Entrance hall ø reception room ø dining room ø study/library/bedroom 3 ø kitchen ø master bedroom with en suite bathroom ø bedroom 2 ø separate bathroom ø guest cloakroom ø lift ø balcony ø 198 sq m (2,128 sq ft)
Guide £3.95 million Leasehold, plus Share of Freehold
Savills Chelsea Charlie Bubear cbubear@savills.com
020 7578 9000
savills.co.uk
1 SECURE EXCLUSIVE APARTMENT WTIH OUTSTANDING VIEWS palace green, w8 3 reception rooms ø kitchen ø master bedroom suite ø 2 further bedrooms (1 en suite) ø guest cloakroom ø lift ø porter ø parking ø 293 sq m (3,159 sq ft) Guide £5 million Leasehold, approximately 20 years remaining
Savills Kensington
Savills Sloane Street
Thomas Holcroft tholcroft@savills.com
Richard Dalton rdalton@savills.com
020 7535 3300
020 7730 0822
savills.co.uk
1 STUNNING PENTHOUSE APARTMENT king's chelsea, sw10 Reception room ø dining room ø family room ø kitchen/breakfast room ø 4 bedrooms ø 3 bathrooms (2 en suite) ø cloakroom ø roof terrace ø 2 balconies ø underground parking ø 226 sq m (2,435 sq ft) Guide £5.95 million Leasehold, plus Share of Freehold
Savills Chelsea
Beaney Pearce
Nicola Ridley nridley@savills.com
Henry Smith hsmith@beaneypearce.co.uk
020 7578 9000
020 7590 9500
savills.co.uk
1 A BEAUTIFUL FAMILY HOUSE SITUATED ON THIS QUIET STREET IN CHELSEA margaretta terrace, sw3 5 bedrooms ø 2 double reception rooms ø kitchen ø 3 bathrooms ø roof terrace ø 218 sq m (2,346 sq ft)
Savills Chelsea Oliver Mellotte omellotte@savills.com
020 7578 9000 £2,400 per week Flexible furnishings
savills.co.uk
1 METICULOUSLY REFURBISHED FAMILY HOUSE peel street, w8 3 bedrooms ø reception room ø dining room ø separate eat-in kitchen ø study room ø 2 bathrooms ø cloakroom ø utility room ø 2 roof terraces ø 182 sq m (1,959 sq ft) £1,800 per week Unfurnished
Savills Kensington Matthew Hobbs mhobbs@savills.com
020 7535 3333
savills.co.uk
1 A NEWLY REFURBISHED APARTMENT SITUATED JUST OFF THE KING'S ROAD old church street, sw3 3 double bedrooms (2 en suite) ø reception room ø kitchen ø bathroom ø porter ø 152 sq m (1,636 sq ft)
£2,300 per week Unfurnished
Savills Chelsea Clem Byron Evans cbevans@savills.com
020 7578 9000
Give your property the audience it deserves.
The Directors of Hamptons International invite you to showcase your property to targeted buyers and investors in the prosperous Far East and Middle East markets as part of The Collection. To include your property or for more information, ask in branch or visit our website.
www.hamptons.co.uk Deadline for entries is 13th April 2012
Beyond your expectations
Hamptons Kensington 020 7717 5457 kensington@hamptons-int.com
Adam and Eve Mews W8
ÂŁ3,200,000 Freehold
A superb 3 bedroom period mews house fully refurbished to the most exacting of standards offering a high quality finish throughout. The house is arranged over three floors, boosting an open plan feel to each level which incorporates outside access on the second floor from the master bedroom. The icing on the cake is an impressive private roof terrace with 365 degree views across the mews and the local surroundings. Hamptons Kensington 020 77717 5457 kensington@hamptons-int.com
Period mews house 3 Bedrooms 3 Floors Roof terrace 1862 Sq ft
Here. There. Everywhere. We were the first UK estate agency to launch an app for iPad, and an app for iPhone, and our website has hundreds of thousands of visitors each month. Wether you want to buy, sell, let or rent, it couldn’t be easier.
Hamptons Sloane Square 020 7717 5481
sloanesquare@hamptons-int.com
Cliveden Place, SW1W A comprehensively refurbished Grade II listed house, situated on the south side of this very attractive Georgian terrace. The property has lovely reception space and has been further enhanced by the addition of a lower ground floor extension which includes a magnificent media room and steam room. The house also has a lift and a garden. Sloane Square 020 7717 5481 sloanesquare@hamptons-int.com
In the year of medals, we are already on a winning streak.
Hamptons International Silver for Best for UK Large Estate Agency and Best for Marketing.
ÂŁ6,650,000 Freehold Reception room Kitchen/breakfast room Dining room 4 Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms Garden, lift
Hamptons Pimlico & Westminster 020 7834 4771
pimwest@hamptons-int.com
Ponsonby Terrace, SW1
ÂŁ1,595,000 Freehold
A fabulous four bedroom mid terrace house on a residential road extending to over 1600 sqft offering excellent well laid out accommodation with its own patio garden.
Pimlico & Westminster 020 7834 4771 pimwest@hamptons-int.com
4 Bedrooms 1 Reception room 2 Bathrooms Period house Garden 1625 Approx Sq ft
Here. There. Everywhere. We were the first UK estate agency to launch an app for iPad, and an app for iPhone, and our website has hundreds of thousands of visitors each month. Wether you want to buy, sell, let or rent, it couldn’t be easier.
Hamptons Chelsea 020 7717 5431
chelsea@hamptons-int.com
Billing Street SW10
ÂŁ1,500,000 Freehold
A beautiful freehold period house tucked away in this unique private enclave just off the Fulham Road, with flexible accommodation over three floors. This property has a bright and spacious 23’ reception room and a large eat in kitchen with separate dining area and also offers two double bedrooms, two bathrooms (one en-suite), roof terrace and a charming private garden. Hamptons Chelsea 020 7717 5431 chelsea@hamptons-int.com
Lovely period house Freehold 1141 Sq ft Private garden Private terrace Set over three floors
In the year of medals, we are already on a winning streak.
Hamptons International Silver for Best for UK Large Estate Agency and Best for Marketing.
Hamptons Notting Hill 020 7717 5649 nottinghill@hamptons-int.com
Leinster Square, W2
ÂŁ950,000 Leasehold
A fantastic first floor flat with a large balcony overlooking communal gardens. It has beautiful high ceilings with detailed cornices, one fabulous bedroom and a super bathroom.
Notting Hill 020 7717 5649 nottinghill@hamptons-int.com
Reception room Bedroom First floor High ceilings with detailed cornicing Balcony Views over communal gardens
Here. There. Everywhere. We were the first UK estate agency to launch an app for iPad, and an app for iPhone, and our website has hundreds of thousands of visitors each month. Wether you want to buy, sell, let or rent, it couldn’t be easier.
Hamptons Knightsbridge 020 7717 5461
knightsbridge@hamptons-int.com
Princes Gate Mews, SW7
ÂŁ3,950,000 Freehold
An immaculately presented three bedroom mews house which has been meticulously refurbished and interior designed in this very sought-after location. The property features a superb reception room, study and guest cloakroom on the first floor, a stunning kitchen and separate dining room, two guest bedrooms with en suites and a top floor master bedroom suite with a terrace and an integral garage. Hamptons Knightsbridge 020 7717 5461 knightsbridge@hamptons-int.com
Reception room Kitchen Dining room Three bedrooms (all en suite) Garage Terrace
In the year of medals, we are already on a winning streak.
Hamptons International Silver for Best for UK Large Estate Agency and Best for Marketing.
Hamptons Country House Head Office 020 7470 9359
countryhouse@hamptons-int.com
Wonersh, Nr Guildford, Surrey Guildford - 4 miles, Central London - 43 miles, A3 (for M25) - 5 miles. A substantial regency style house with a separate three bedroom secondary coach house, lake and about 35 acres in the heart of this sought after Surrey village. Hamptons Country House Head Office 01483 256633 countryhouse@hamptons-int.com John Denney, 32 Grosvenor Sq, Mayfair ,W1K 2HJ 020 7470 9359
Freehold For Sale 6 Receptions, kitchen, breakfast room 9 Bedrooms, 5 bathrooms Coach house, 3 garages 35 Acres of grounds Swimming pool Lake, river frontage
Here. There. Everywhere. We were the first UK estate agency to launch an app for iPad, and an app for iPhone, and our website has hundreds of thousands of visitors each month. Wether you want to buy, sell, let or rent, it couldn’t be easier.
MARKET INSIGHT
London’s Luxury Property prime central London property has far outperformed the rest of the UK’s housing market over the past three years, with prices up more than 40 per cent since the post-crisis slump in 2009. Gráinne Gilmore, Head of UK residential research at Knight Frank, reports
property prices in prime central London, an area which encompasses Kensington, chelsea, Mayfair, Knightsbridge and Belgravia, have risen every month for 16 months, and are now 11.6 per cent higher than in February last year. in fact they are at a record high, nearly 9 per cent above their previous peak in 2008. in contrast, average house prices in the rest of the UK have struggled to rise by 1 per cent over the last 12 months, as the sharp contraction in mortgage lending, seen after the collapse of Lehman Brothers, continues to take a heavy toll on sales activity. the number of mortgages granted to buyers has almost halved since the peak of the market in 2007 and prices are still 12.5 per cent lower than they were at that time. so why has London’s luxury home market effectively de-coupled from the rest of the UK? the first reason is that London is a key global hub, not least because of its might in the financial sector. this has long made it attractive to overseas buyers as well as those from the UK. this trend has escalated in recent years as London’s status as a ‘safe haven’ has grown. With mounting economic and political tensions across the globe, London offers economic, political and social stability for investors. take, for example, the eurozone crisis. As the Greek debt negotiations have lurched from one emergency to the next, there has been a notable rise in european buyers keen to diversify away from euro-denominated assets. After UK and russian buyers, italians and Greeks accounted for the highest number
of purchases in south Kensington and chelsea in the year to February. in fact, in the wider prime central London market, italians nudged aside russians as the biggest overseas buyers in January and February this year. in addition to the London’s safe-haven credentials, the weak pound has also boosted the capital’s attractiveness. While average buying prices are now higher than the previous market peak in 2008, for those buying in dollars, or currencies pegged to the dollar, buying a home in prime central London is around 15 per cent cheaper than in 2008, thanks to currency movements.
London is a key global hub, not least because of its might in the financial sector, making it attractive to overseas buyers these fundamentals are reflected in buoyant demand in the market, with new applicant registrations up 15 per cent in the year to February. new applicants look for properties worth £5 million or more have risen even more strongly, up 26 per cent. the supply of new homes coming on to the market is constrained, meaning there is stiff competition for the very best properties which come up for sale.
How
tHe markets compare (AnnuAl Price Growth)
UK Greater London Prime Central London
For all the latest news, views and analysis from the world of prime property, visit Knight Frank’s Residential Research blog at www.knightfrank.com/globalbriefing
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Source: KF Residential Research
the KENSINGTON & CHELSEA magazine
PROPERTY
28 Hyde Park Gate RichaRd BRown takes a closer look at the Knightsbridge address which provided a home to Sir Winston Leonard Spencer Churchill between 1945 and 1965 proposed trade tariffs. after acquiring the seat of Manchester north West for his new party, Winston’s political career burgeoned; by the time he was 40 he had served as Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies, President of the Board of trade, home Secretary and First Lord of the admiralty. of course, it is for his leadership during the Second World War that Churchill is most remembered. Becoming Prime Minister in 1940 upon Chamberlain’s resignation, he spent the next five years galvanising the nation into resilient action against nazi Germany – providing some of the 20th century’s most inspiring quotes and distinguished dialogues in doing so. addressing a crowd in Whitehall on Victory in europe Day, 7 May 1945, Churchill announced from a balcony: “this is your victory.” the crowd shouted back: “no, it is yours!”
“The nation had the lion’s heart. I had the luck to give the roar”
More than 320,000 people filed past the coffin of Sir Winston Churchill during the three days his body lay in state. honoured by a 19-gun salute, an raF fly-past, and attended by her Majesty the Queen and representatives of 112 countries, his funeral was one of the largest assemblies of world statesmen in history. as his coffin passed from tower Pier to Festival Pier, dockers lowered their crane jibs in salute; as it continued on its way via train to its final resting place in oxfordshire, thousands stood in silence at the stations and in the fields that the locomotive passed, a fitting farewell to a man who had always aimed to make the news rather than to be “taking” it, who intended “to be an actor rather than a critic.” a champion of the people and the people’s Champion, Winston’s was a life far removed from the millions he would touch. a descendent of John Churchill, the first Duke of Marlborough, Winston was born amid the grand surroundings of Blenheim Palace, the son of an ex-Chancellor of the exchequer and an american socialite millionaire. after an education completed at harrow, Winston joined the cavalry regiment at the royal Military College, Sandhurst, where he rose to Second Lieutenant in the 4th Queen’s own hussar. During the next five years, he would serve actively in Cuba, India, Sudan and South africa. Winston’s induction to the political world came in 1900 when he entered Parliament as member for oldham. originally a Conservative, he switched allegiance to the Liberal party four years later following a disagreement over
the KENSINGTON & CHELSEA magazine
28 hyde Park Gate was purchased by Churchill as a London base after his surprise defeat in the 1945 general election – a result of post-war consequences still debated by historians today. ten years later, having returned as Prime Minister in 1951, he acquired number 27 of the same road as office space. In november 1964, when he turned 90, a crowd gathered outside the address and sang Happy Birthday. Churchill stood at the window, replying with his signature v-sign salute. he died at the same house the next January following a stroke. More than a soldier-turned-statesman, Churchill was an author, historian and essayist. he was also a gifted painter, a fine polo player and a unionised stonemason. he received a nobel Prize for Literature, the only Prime Minister to have done so, was named a Knight of the Garter, and was the first person to become an honorary Citizen of the United States. When the BBC conducted a survey to find out who the public deemed the greatest Prime Minister of the 20th Century, it was Churchill who topped the poll. When the company asked the same people two years later to choose the greatest Briton of all time, Churchill once again took the top spot.
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SALES & LETTINGS
BEDFORD GARDENS, W9 A double aspect raised ground floor apartment with a long lease located on one of Kensington’s premier streets, with the majority of the accommodation facing south. Approx. 859 sq ft. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, reception room, balcony. £900,000 Leasehold 020 7229 2404 nottinghill@faronsutaria.co.uk
OUR SERVICE WILL MOVE YOU
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Kens
faronsutaria.co.uk
SALES & LETTINGS
POWIS GARDENS, W11 A spacious maisonette (entered on the 1st floor) in a beautifully converted period building, comprising an open-plan living area, south-west facing kitchen/breakfast room, master bedroom suite and access to outside space. Approx. 1,161 sq ft. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, reception room. ÂŁ1,350,000 Leasehold
020 7229 2404 nottinghill@faronsutaria.co.uk
OUR SERVICE WILL MOVE YOU
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faronsutaria.co.uk
SALES & LETTINGS
STANHOPE GARDENS, SW7 A well presented raised ground floor flat boasting high ceilings and a south facing terrace. Just off the Old Brompton Road, Stanhope Gardens is located within close proximity to South Kensington and Gloucester Road Underground stations. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, reception room. ÂŁ1,250,000 Leasehold 020 7590 0300 southken@faronsutaria.co.uk
OUR SERVICE WILL MOVE YOU
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Kens
faronsutaria.co.uk
SALES & LETTINGS
HARRINGTON GARDENS, SW7 With views over award winning communal gardens this wonderful apartment has character and natural light which creates a very comfortable living space in the heart of South Kensington. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 reception rooms, terrace. ÂŁ1,985,000 Share of Freehold 020 7590 0300 southken@faronsutaria.co.uk
OUR SERVICE WILL MOVE YOU
13:44
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faronsutaria.co.uk
SALES & LETTINGS
Redcliffe SquaRe, SW10 An immaculately presented garden flat with a fabulous entrance hallway and bespoke storage throughout. Well located for Chelsea and Earls Court. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, reception room, patio. ÂŁ1,350,000 Share of Freehold 020 7835 1577 earlsct@faronsutaria.co.uk
OUR SERVICE WILL MOVE YOU
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Kens
faronsutaria.co.uk
SALES & LETTINGS
COLLINGHAM PLACE, SW5 A stylish and contemporary designed duplex apartment which has been renovated to exacting standards and benefits from a spacious open-plan reception room leading onto a roof terrace. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, roof terrace. ÂŁ1,595,000 Leasehold 020 7835 1577 earlsct@faronsutaria.co.uk
OUR SERVICE WILL MOVE YOU
13:44
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faronsutaria.co.uk
SALES & LETTINGS
HAWKER BUILDING, SW8 A 5th floor apartment in Chelsea Bridge Wharf. Approx. 1,075 sq ft. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 23’ reception room, concierge, underground parking. £995,000 Leasehold 020 7730 8762 chelsea@faronsutaria.co.uk
REMBRANDT CLOSE, SW1 A practical three storey house in a cul-de-sac (planning permission has been applied for to create an extra floor). Approx. 1,245 sq ft. 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, reception/dining room, lock-up garage. £1,995,000 Freehold 020 7730 8762 chelsea@faronsutaria.co.uk
OUR SERVICE WILL MOVE YOU
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Kens
faronsutaria.co.uk
SALES & LETTINGS
CHELSEA GATE, SW1 A beautifully presented and spacious apartment on the 2nd floor of this well regarded modern block. Approx. 1,418 sq ft. 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, reception, balcony, porter, underground parking space. ÂŁ1,850,000 Leasehold 020 7730 8762 chelsea@faronsutaria.co.uk
OUR SERVICE WILL MOVE YOU
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faronsutaria.co.uk
SALES & LETTINGS
Wetherby Gardens, sW5 A contemporary and stylish raised ground floor flat with a well proportioned reception room. 2 bedrooms, bathroom, reception room. ÂŁ1,095 per week Furnished/Unfurnished 020 7590 0333 obr.lets@faronsutaria.co.uk
sLOane street, sW1 A very elegant 1st floor apartment with wood floors throughout. Bedroom, bathroom, reception room, excellent storage. ÂŁ725 per week Furnished 020 7730 8682 css.lets@faronsutaria.co.uk
Residential Lettings across RBK&C in Chelsea, South Kensington, Earls Court and Notting Hill
OUR SERVICE WILL MOVE YOU
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PROPERTY
The Inside View Tommy de malleT morgan FrICS, managing director of de mallet morgan ltd, offers an acquisition agent’s perspective on the prime residential property market
THE rEmarkablE growTH in certain sections of the global economy is creating millionaires and billionaires on an unprecedented scale. The new super rich’s urge to invest has been a strong driver in the property market throughout london and the Home Counties. while this is nothing out of the ordinary, the scale has dramatically increased. The desire to invest in property in london continues at a strong pace. Unlike the domestic market, which releases stock by moving up and down the ladder, many of these international buyers take a very long-term view on their purchases, while some from specific cultures rarely sell on in the future. The effect is to contribute to a shortage of property which is causing the domestic market to drift out of some super-prime regions in town. The overseas clients’ decision to invest in property in london is particularly biased towards belgravia, mayfair, knightsbridge and kensington. These are hot spots for their proximity to Hyde Park, oxford Street, bond Street and Harrods. knightsbridge has five to six luxury blocks of flats, built to international standards providing concierge services, air conditioning, spas and pools, parking and high end security. The French lycée, for example, makes South kensington particularly popular for the Europeans, while Chelsea remains a british bastion, at least for the time being. with the apparent growing economic and political turmoil in the world and the new wealth from the emerging nations, london and the Home Counties are seen as an attractive safe haven. There are the opportunities to revel in history and culture, attend superb schools and universities, and enjoy world renowned shopping centres. The area also offers top business and financial centres, access to Europe and close proximity to airports. High-net-worth (HNw) buyers are increasingly using acquisition agents to keep up with the pace of the changing times and altering market conditions. If you wish to sell up in london, you are likely to leave with a substantial premium. However, to buy super-prime the competition is so intense that the modern buyer will need a professional expert to help to reach the front of the queue.
the KENSINGTON & CHELSEA magazine
In the countryside the competition is still predominately british, moving up or down to accommodate changes of lifestyle. There seems to be a perception that we have seen the worst, we have weathered the storm over the last few years and it’s time to ‘make the move’. In addition, there has been a build up over the past two or three years of cash buyers in rented accommodation, many of whom will have sold in london and are now settled in the areas favoured principally for schools, accessibility to london and the countryside. This enables them to respond quickly when fresh property becomes available.In the Home Counties the shortage of stock has been relieved by the construction of very good, sustainable modern country houses. Nonetheless, there is always a shortage of the very best and if a purchase is missed in spring or early autumn, traditionally the main selling seasons, it is often another six months’ wait before a reasonable selection of fresh prime stock becomes available. on the surface, the prime property market seems straightforward, but it has its own particular characteristics and is being redefined by two important requirements; confidentiality and privacy. These two commodities are becoming increasingly highly valued. Importantly for some sellers, there may also be a perceived premium for the privilege for such exclusive access to their property. buyers can gain an entrée to the 50 per cent of prime residential properties that do not formally come into the market, are not published on the Internet and are often without even sale particulars. These ‘off market’ properties are being sourced and purchased by acquisition agents on behalf of savvy, motivated and financially qualified purchasers. Due to acquisition agents’ contacts and experience, buyers can receive advance warning of new houses and those coming onto the open market in the near future, some of which may not have even reached the estate agents yet. Information: email tommy@demalletmorgan.com or visit www.demalletmorgan.com
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EGERTON PLACE, SW3 A beautifully presented, recently refurbished maisonette on the 4th and 5th floors (with lift) of a handsome period building, benefitting from wonderful views. Approx. 1,626 sq ft.
3 bedrooms, bathroom, en suite shower room, drawing room, dining room, cloakroom, study. Lease to 2055 Guide Price £2,650,000
CHELSEA 020 7352 1484 cst.sales@johndwood.co.uk
Kensington&Chelsea mag Apr12.indd 1
www.johndwood.co.uk
07/03/2012 13:40
Kens
7 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, through-drawing room, family room, study, kitchen/dining room, front garden, rear garden (33’10’’ x 20’2’’), part-ownership of Pelham Crescent garden, garages or off-street parking available.
D
R GEN E FO IONS AT R
An excellent Grade II Listed family house forming part of a fine stucco terrace with an attractive range of reception rooms, west facing garden with an open aspect and well arranged bedroom accommodation. Approx. 3,062 sq ft.
TRUSTE
PELHAM PLACE, SW7
140 Years of Property
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Freehold Guide Price £10,000,000
CHELSEA 020 7352 1484 cst.sales@johndwood.co.uk
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WYNNSTAY GARDENS, W8 An unmodernised, lateral apartment which has great views, situated on the top (4th) floor of this popular mansion block. One of the most exclusive portered buildings in Kensington, with entry from Allen Street with only one entrance/exit in use by The Porter’s Lodge. There are parking bays set back from the private road for the use of residents of the block. Approx. 1,839 sq ft. 4 bedrooms, en suite bathroom/dressing room, shower room, 2 receptions, lift, hallway, store room, porter. Freehold Share Guide Price £2,900,000
KENSINGTON 020 7908 1100 kcs.sales@johndwood.co.uk
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5/6 bedrooms, 2 en suite bathrooms, en suite shower room, 1/2 receptions, roof terrace, balcony, garden, communal garden.
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A very well proportioned and elegant house on this favoured Holland Park garden square. This beautifully presented house has been tastefully modernised and offers tremendous volume, with fantastic ceiling heights and many features such as original wooden shutters. The layout is extremely well thought out with the south facing private garden accessible from both the raised and lower ground floor levels. Approx. 4,230 sq ft.
TRUSTE
ST JAMES’S GARDENS, W11
140 Years of Property
18
72 - 2 012
Freehold Guide Price ÂŁ6,995,000
HOLLAND PARK 020 7727 2233 hln.sales@johndwood.co.uk
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GRENVILLE PLACE, SW7 A beautifully presented maisonette with a triple aspect reception room with unusual arched windows and two generous double bedrooms. Approx. 1,473 sq ft. 2 bedrooms, en suite bathroom, en suite shower room, double reception room, open-plan kitchen, cloakroom. Freehold Share Guide Price £1,795,000
BOLTON GARDENS, SW5 A perfectly arranged 2nd floor flat in need of updating, with southerly views. Approx. 878 sq ft. 2 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en suite), reception room, lift. Freehold Share Guide Price £1,395,000
SOUTH KENSINGTON 020 7835 0000 skn.sales@johndwood.co.uk
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ELVASTON PLACE, SW7 An exceptionally grand & elegant ground and 1st floor maisonette with a fabulous drawing room with three sets of French windows opening onto a south facing balcony. Approx. 2,100 sq ft. 2/3 bedrooms, 2 en suite bathrooms, shower room, drawing room, kitchen/dining room, study/bedroom, balcony, loft storage. Freehold Share Guide Price £3,750,000
3 bedrooms, 2 en suite bathrooms, drawing room, cloakroom, patio, direct access to communal gardens. Freehold Share Guide Price £1,950,000
SOUTH KENSINGTON 020 7835 0000 skn.sales@johndwood.co.uk
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An exceptional flat on the raised ground floor of a newly refurbished building with direct access onto the communal gardens. Approx. 1,130 sq ft.
TRUSTE
BRAMHAM GARDENS, SW5
140 Years of Property
18
72 - 2 012
www.johndwood.co.uk
07/03/2012 13:42
QUEEN’S GATE GARDENS, SW7 An Interior designed penthouse apartment split over two floors, with direct lift access and views over the communal gardens. 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, reception room, cloakroom. Furnished £2,600 per week SOUTH KENSINGTON 020 7835 0044 skn.lets@johndwood.co.uk
SHAWFIELD STREET, SW3 An immaculate house offering very stylish living, wood floored reception room, very good kitchen/dining room and off-street parking. 3 bedroom suites, 2 reception rooms, garden. Furnished/Unfurnished £2,500 per week CHELSEA 020 7352 8111 chl.lets@johndwood.co.uk
www.johndwood.co.uk
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HOT PROPERTy:
Palace Green, W8
Elegant and contemporary apartment with one of London’s most exclusive addresses
Known as “Billionaire’s Row”, Kensington Palace Gardens is arguably the most exclusive residential address in London. The tree-lined avenue stretching half a mile from the bustling Notting Hill to the sophisticated Kensington High Street is the domain of embassies and private houses including Kensington Palace, home of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. Diplomatic police patrols provide exceptional privacy and security and the exclusive boutiques of Knightsbridge, Kensington Park and the Royal Albert Hall on the doorstep make this a truly world class address. This elegant and sumptuous three bedroom first floor apartment has been meticulously renovated by boutique developer Balleroy. The finest quality materials have been used and the finished result includes a state-of-
the-art audio-visual system, mood lighting and air conditioning throughout. Oliver Gibson, Head of Development and Investment at boutique agent W.A. Ellis LLP, says: “Balleroy is in pole position in the highspecification luxury market, sourcing custom-made fixtures and fittings from across the globe. Everything from furnishings to artwork, which includes Rodin, Rozot and McAlpine Miller, has been carefully selected.” The property also benefits from a 24-hour concierge, a fitness suite and two valet parking spaces. W.A. Ellis LLP – Oliver Gibson, 020 7306 1600 JSA Knight Frank, 020 7938 4311
PROPERTY
Palace Green, W8 ÂŁ9.5 million
W.A. Ellis waellis.co.uk
the KENSINGTON & CHELSEA magazine
Knight Frank knightfrank.co.uk
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Introducing the Naked Estate Agent. Why do clients recommend us to their friends? They say it’s our bespoke service. It’s more personal and more effective because we have nothing to hide. No long term contracts to be tied into. No over-valuing properties to win instructions. No empty promises. And when we tell you we do our very best to get the price you had in mind, this is exactly what we do. Right now we’re achieving the highest prices in our area. And that’s the bare truth.
hello@crayson.com T 020 7221 1117 10 Lambton Place London W11 2SH
Specialists in Selling
Pembroke Road, Kensington W8 An immaculate town house with a delightful mature rear garden, off street parking, garaging and a sought after Kensington & Chelsea postcode Decorated beautifully and cleverly reconfigured in part to offer ample family accommodation which is elegant and comfortable as well as being open to interpretation if desired.
Drawing room, sitting room & family room Kitchen & dining room Master bedroom & bathroom Three further bedrooms, two further bathrooms Utility room & shower room 66’ Walled garden Garage & off street parking 2,675 sq ft / 248.5 sq m – Freehold The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea
Joint Sole Agents Crayson 020 7221 1117 hello@crayson.com John D Wood 020 7908 1100
Specialists in Selling
Colville Mews, Notting Hill W11 Three houses, but only one of its kind. This thoughtful merger of three mews houses creates one property of extraordinary personality that unites modern living and working. Tucked away in the heart of Notting Hill, a fabulous, versatile, lateral space.
Large drawing room Kitchen & dining room Master bedroom with bath & dressing room Second double bedroom, shower room The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea c. 1270 sq ft / 118 sq m of prime commercial (B1) ground floor space 3016 sq ft / 280 sq m in total Guide ÂŁ3.5 million Freehold
Sole Agent hello@crayson.com T 020 7221 1117 10 Lambton Place London W11 2SH
Specialists in Selling
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Boundless energy meets extraordinary care. Enthusiasm comes naturally at W.A.Ellis and with each new instruction we can’t wait to hop to it! But we never forget that it is your investment we’re handling and because we work together from one central office you are drawing on the expertise and experience of all our Partners. W.A.Ellis The best of both worlds
Follow us on twitter @waellis to keep up to date.
Call 020 7306 1600 or email partner@waellis.co.uk
W.A.Ellis LLP Sales, Lettings, Surveyors and Valuers
waellis.co.uk
South Kensington rental opportunities • Dalmeny House SW7 – £1,395 per week • 67 Egerton Gardens SW3 – £895 per week • 57 Egerton Gardens SW3 – £1,295 per week • 1 Egerton Terrace SW3 – £995 per week
For more information about these properties and the rest of the SKE portfolio please call us on 020 7306 1600
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“ South Kensington Estates offers an exceptional service promise to make your tenancy as comfortable as possible” W.A.Ellis LLP 174 Brompton Road London SW3 1HP
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6/3/12 16:32:30
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Hillgate Street, W8
ÂŁ8,250,000 Freehold
A new build contemporary house designed by Seth Stein Architects.
Set behind a traditional façade within Hillgate Village in Notting Hill, the plan extends 26 metres (85 feet) in length and provides accommodation on four floors, arranged around a courtyard that steps back on each level. The house consists of three principal bedroom suites and a guest/ housekeeper suite. It provides two separate living areas on two levels for formal and less formal living. There is also an integral garage and in total four terraces.
17 Kensington Park Road, London W11 2EU Email: info@domusnova.com Tel: 0207 727 1717 Fax: 0207 727 2030 Web: www.domusnova.com Domus loves: weekends at The Churchill Arms, Kensington Church Street
Pembridge Square, W2 ÂŁ4,200,000 Share of Freehold
A beautiful three bedroom apartment combining impressive proportions, traditional features and inspiring contemporary design.
This exemplary property offers brilliant family accommodation in a hugely sought after location with both Wetherby and Pembridge Hall schools a stone’s throw away. The apartment is arranged over the ground and lower ground floors of a substantial doublefronted villa. It offers a superb dual aspect reception room, as well as a formal dining room and kitchen breakfast room. Elsewhere there are three double bedrooms (two en suite) and a private garden.
OxfOrd Gardens, W10
ÂŁ15,000 per week Olympic short-let
A very creative family house with fantastic space and proportions, set in an enviable North Kensington location.
Encompassing five floors in total, the property has been beautifully finished throughout. Statement art and contemporary furniture complete the already stylish feel of this home. The impressive living space includes a large formal reception, second living area and open-plan kitchen/dining. The master bedroom suite, further five bedrooms and two bathrooms are set on the first and second floors. There is a private garden and roof terrace, perfect for the warmer months.
17 Kensington Park Road, London W11 2EU Email: info@domusnova.com Tel: 0207 727 1717 Fax: 0207 727 2030 Web: www.domusnova.com Domus loves: Friday nights at Pizza East
Bassett Road, W10 ÂŁ3,000 per week Olympic short-let
A fabulous garden apartment occupying the entire lower ground floor of a large detached villa in North Kensington.
Accessed via its own entrance, this elegant home has exceptional living space throughout, providing a large reception room leading to the dining area and openplan kitchen. A pair of enormous glass doors fold back onto the large landscaped garden with a decked dining area. Three double bedrooms and two bathrooms complete this home. Bassett Road is much sought after for its proximity to various boutiques and bars of Portobello Road and Notting Hill.
Kensington ParK road, W11
ÂŁ3,000 per week Long-let
An extraordinary residence in the heart of Notting Hill, previously the home of the singer Robbie Williams.
Stunningly designed at great expense, this unique corner property provides amazing views and an abundance of natural light. The property has vast living space and double height gallery over the kitchen/dining area. There is an exquisite master bedroom suite, two further bedrooms (one en suite) and a family bathroom. There is a fantastic roof garden designed by the renowned Chelsea Gold medallist Caspar Gabb.
17 Kensington Park Road, London W11 2EU Email: info@domusnova.com Tel: 0207 727 1717 Fax: 0207 727 2030 Web: www.domusnova.com Domus loves: breakfasts at Tom’s Deli, Westbourne Grove
Pembridge Square, W2 ÂŁ2,950 per week Long-let
An immaculate second floor lateral apartment offering impressive space and stylish design.
Overlooking a stunning communal garden square, the property features three adjoining reception areas, including a primary living space, study area and formal dining room. A contemporary kitchen, three double bedrooms and four bathrooms complete the property.
How far do your property details travel? With Sotheby’s International Realty your property details travel further. In fact, your printed brochure will travel over 150,000 miles across the globe to key offices in our network and auction locations worldwide. With over 550 offices in 46 countries, we provide your property with the international coverage it deserves. To find out more please contact our Chelsea office on 020 7808 8540 sothebysrealty.co.uk
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Catherine Place, St James’s SW1 An elegant townhouse located moments from St James’s Park and Victoria. Entrance hall • Study • Dining room • Kitchen • Sitting room First floor reception room • Library • Master bedroom with walk-in wardrobe and en-suite bathroom • Two further bedrooms • Family bathroom • Patio garden • 2,311 sq ft
Philippa Cockburn
020 7808 8543
philippa.cockburn@sothebysrealty.co.uk
Guide Price: £2,950,000 Freehold
Over 550 Offices in 46 Countries
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06/03/2012 15:25
Avalon Road, Fulham SW6
A modern house moments from the Kings Road. Entrance hall • Reception room • Study • Kitchen • Dining room • Living room • Private courtyard • Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom • Two further bedrooms and a bathroom
Philippa Cockburn
020 7808 8543
philippa.cockburn@sothebysrealty.co.uk
Guide Price: £1,850,000 Freehold
Over 550 Offices in 46 Countries
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Kings Road, Chelsea SW3
An exceptional London pied-à-terre. A light and spacious duplex one bedroom apartment situated on the first and second floors • A well-proportioned open plan reception room and Poggenpohl kitchen • Dining room • Large bedroom Large Starck bathroom • Communal terrace • 843sq ft / 78 sq m
Philippa Cockburn
020 7808 8543
philippa.cockburn@sothebysrealty.co.uk
Guide Price: £1,250,000 Leasehold with approximately 121 years remaining
Over 550 Offices in 46 Countries
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Crown Lodge, SW3
ÂŁ1,150,000 | Share of Freehold
Excellent two bedroom flat on the ground floor of this sought after and prestigious modern building. The apartment boasts the excellent feature of having two french doors opening up to the front gardens of the building. Two bedrooms, Two bathrooms ( one en suite ), Reception room with french doors, Kitchen, Underground parking space, 24 hour porterage, Leisure centre with large swimming pool.
2 Cale Street, London SW3 3QU 020 7581 5011
chelseaoffice@henryandjames.co.uk henryandjames.co.uk
Onslow Gardens, SW7
ÂŁ2,150,000 | Leasehold
This three bedroom maisonette on the ground and lower ground floors of this handsome white stucco fronted property combines classical proportions with a contemporary refurbishment. The maisonette is located at a sought after Onslow Gardens address and benefits from direct access to beautiful communal gardens. Onslow Gardens is very well positioned within easy walking distance of fashionable South Kensington with its excellent transport links, shopping opportunities and restaurants, as well as moments from Gloucester Road underground station. Entrance hall, Reception room / dining / kitchen, Three bedrooms, Two bathrooms ( one en suite ), Cloakroom, Patio area, Communal gardens ( access subject to usual consents ).
2 Cale Street, London SW3 3QU 020 7581 5011
chelseaoffice@henryandjames.co.uk henryandjames.co.uk
Cadogan Gardens, SW3
£675 p.w | Furnished
A stunning interior designed “loft style” apartment in this beautiful period building close to Sloane Square.The property has been refurbished to a very high standard and benefits from views over gardens at the front and rooftop views at the rear. Reception, Open plan kitchen, Double bedroom, Study/occasional guest room, Communal gardens by separate arrangement.
2 Cale Street, London SW3 3QU 020 7581 5011
chelseaoffice@henryandjames.co.uk henryandjames.co.uk
Prince of Wales Terrace, W8
ÂŁ695 p.w | Furnished
A fantastic two double bedroom period property located on a residential street opposite Hyde Park. The apartment, which has been stylishly decorated with contemporary furnishings, has a large reception room and excellent storage in the bedrooms. Two double bedrooms, Large reception room, Kitchen, Two bathrooms.
2 Cale Street, London SW3 3QU 020 7581 5011
chelseaoffice@henryandjames.co.uk henryandjames.co.uk
MORTON MEWS, SW5 A superb 4/5 bedroom family mews house of almost 3,000 sq ft that has been exceptionally well refurbished by the current owner. Reception room, kitchen/dining room, study/bedroom 5, master bedroom with dressing room and en suite bathroom, 3 further bedrooms, 3 shower rooms, cloakroom, garage, terrace, ample storage, private mews parking.
Freehold ÂŁ3,850,000 STC South Kensington Office 020 7590 9955
ENNISMORE MEWS, SW7 A charming and spacious mews property with an amazing 50 foot frontage and a bright westerly aspect over this picturesque cobbled Knightsbridge mews. Reception room, kitchen, bedroom with en suite shower room, 2 further bedrooms, bathroom, small patio.
SH of FH ÂŁ1,950,000 STC South Kensington Office 020 7590 9955
@Lurotbrand @LurotbrandSales @LurotBrandLets
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LOGAN MEWS, W8 Located in a private mews with parking, a three bedroom freehold house with both a patio garden and a roof terrace. Reception room, kitchen, master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, 2 further bedrooms, bathroom, garden, roof terrace, private mews parking.
Freehold £1,750,000 STC South Kensington Office 020 7590 9955
QUEEN’S GATE MEWS, SW7 A charming three bedroomed south facing house tucked away in this popular cobbled mews in the heart of south Kensington. Reception room, kitchen, 3 bedrooms, en suite shower room, bathroom, large entrance hall.
Freehold £1,750,000 STC South Kensington Office 020 7590 9955
www.lurotbrand.co.uk
07/03/2012 10:02
Eaton SquarE, SW1 This spacious, three/four-bedroom lateral apartment is situated on the second floor across two substantial stucco-fronted buildings on the preferred north side of London’s most exclusive garden square. Refurbished to the highest standards, the apartment benefits from generously proportioned, high-ceilinged reception rooms, and bedrooms with direct views of the private communal gardens.The apartment also has a residential porter, lift, security and access to the square’s gardens and tennis courts.
Leasehold: 63 years £10,950,000 020 7225 6508 shaun.drummond@harrodsestates.com
KnIGHtSBrIDGE oFFICE: 82 BroMPton roaD LonDon SW3 1Er t: +44 020 7225 6506 MaYFaIr oFFICE: 61 ParK LanE LonDon W1K 1qF t: +44 020 7409 9001
HarroDSEStatES.CoM
ONE HANS CRESCENT, SW1 This two-bedroom duplex apartment of 1,402sq ft (130sq m) is situated on the upper ground floor of a Grade 1 listed building. Presented in a contemporary style, the apartment benefits from three spacious bay windows that provide doubleheight living space. One Hans Crescent is managed by Harrods Estates Asset Management, which offers a full range of concierge services.There is also 24-hour security, private underground parking with valet service, and recently refurbished communal parts. Hans Crescent is located between Harrods and Sloane Street, and is convenient to all the amenities Knightsbridge has to offer, with easy access to Chelsea, Hyde Park and the West End. Leasehold: 989 years ÂŁ3,750,000 020 7893 8044 hassan.basma@harrodsestates.com
KNIGHTSBRIDGE OFFICE: 82 BROMPTON ROAD LONDON SW3 1ER T: +44 020 7225 6506 MAYFAIR OFFICE: 61 PARK LANE LONDON W1K 1QF T: +44 020 7409 9001
HARRODSESTATES.COM
Chelsea Park Gardens Chelsea SW3
This immaculate six bedroom family house is truly unique, extends to over 4500 square feet and has been superbly refurbished to a very high standard by the current owner.
• Air conditioning • Underfloor heating • Control 4 home automation and remote home monitoring (lighting, heating, security) • Multi-room zoned audio system • High definition, 5.1 surround cinema with automated reclining seats • Fully wired computer network to all floors
• Independent WI-FI network to all floors • Fire sprinkler system • Banham intruder alarm with CCTV cameras and automated video door entry system • Temperature controlled wine room • Street patrolled guard dog security in operation
It features a breathtaking studio room with a 4.5 metre ceiling height, cinema, gym, sauna, wine room and a 65ft south facing garden. It is quietly situated in the south western corner of Chelsea Park Gardens, which is widely regarded as one of Chelsea’s most sought after addresses. Combining comfortable family accommodation along with state of the art technology, this house offers the most luxurious style of living.
Freehold
ÂŁ12,750,000 STC
PROPERTY
KENSINGTON & CHELSEA R
hoT properTy:
OM MEN
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Old Ferry House
stylish and spacious property in a highly desirable location
This superb, recenTly refurbished, first floor apartment benefits from stunning views of the river and surrounding area. Fabulous and beautifully furnished, the property is contemporary and stylish and boasts excellent living space, including a drawing room and kitchen breakfast room with French doors opening to a small balcony. There is a lovely master suite, second double bedroom and study. The flat is finished to the highest standard including wood flooring and modern fixtures and fittings. The property is situated in the heart of chelsea, close to all the local amenities of the area, as well as being located on the river Thames and with battersea park lying just to the south of the river. Access via both Albert and chelsea bridges is possible and the property is also situated close to all the designer shops and popular restaurants on the King’s road.
218
EC
Chelsea Embankment, SW3 ÂŁ1,800 per week
Fitore Vula 020 7578 9020 FVula@savills.com the KENSINGTON & CHELSEA magazine
Chelsea Fulham & Parsons Green Kensington & Holland Park Knightsbridge, Belgravia & Mayfair Notting Hill & Bayswater West Chelsea & South Kensington
Sales 020 7225 3866 Sales 020 7731 7100 Sales 020 7938 3666 Sales 020 7235 9959 Sales 020 7221 1111 Sales 020 7373 1010
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020 7600 3456 020 7318 5039 020 7629 7282 020 7318 5196 020 7052 9417
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Old Church Street | Chelsea | SW3 2,565 sq ft (238sq m)
A wonderful triple aspect apartment on the corner of Old Church Street and Mallord Street in the heart of this most historic part of Chelsea. Own street entrance | Double height open plan drawing room, dining area & kitchen Galleried/sitting room | Four bedrooms | Two Bathrooms | Cloakroom Asking price ÂŁ5,250,000 Long leasehold
Chelsea 020 7225 3866
West Chelsea 020 7373 1010
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Petyt Place | Chelsea | SW3 3,217 sq ft (299 sq m)
A rarely available low-built family house in excellent order throughout and set back from Cheyne Walk with southerly views of the River Thames. Three reception rooms | Kitchen/breakfast/family room | Four bedrooms | Three bath/shower rooms (two en suite) | Dressing room | Bar | Cloakroom | Utility | Garden Asking price ÂŁ5,950,000 Freehold
West Chelsea 020 7373 1010
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Chelsea Fulham & Parsons Green Kensington & Holland Park Knightsbridge, Belgravia & Mayfair Notting Hill & Bayswater West Chelsea & South Kensington
Sales 020 7225 3866 Sales 020 7731 7100 Sales 020 7938 3666 Sales 020 7235 9959 Sales 020 7221 1111 Sales 020 7373 1010
Lettings 020 7589 9966 Lettings 020 7731 7100 Lettings 020 7938 3866 Lettings 020 7235 9959 Lettings 020 7221 1111 Lettings 020 7373 1010
City Office Professional Valuations UK Commercial & Residential Residential Investment Property Management
020 7600 3456 020 7318 5039 020 7629 7282 020 7318 5196 020 7052 9417
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Cadogan Place | Knightsbridge | SW1 3,001 sq ft (279 sq m)
A rare ground floor maisonette with extensive entertaining space, a private terrace and views of the communal gardens. Reception Hall | Dining room | Kitchen/Breakfast room | Reception room | Balcony | Two bedrooms | Two en suite bathrooms | Study with en suite shower room | Terraced garden Asking price ÂŁ8,950,000 Leasehold
Knightsbridge 020 7235 9959
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Embankment Gardens | Chelsea | SW3 1,950 sq ft (181 sq m)
A bright and immaculately refurbished three bedroom lateral flat on the third floor of this highly sought after and elegant period building. Hallway | Drawing room | Kitchen/Dining room | Master bedroom with en suite bathroom Second double bedroom | Third double bedroom | Further full bathroom | Guest Cloakroom Asking price ÂŁ3,900,000 Leasehold
Chelsea 020 7225 3866
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Chelsea Fulham & Parsons Green Kensington & Holland Park Knightsbridge, Belgravia & Mayfair Notting Hill & Bayswater West Chelsea & South Kensington
Sales 020 7225 3866 Sales 020 7731 7100 Sales 020 7938 3666 Sales 020 7235 9959 Sales 020 7221 1111 Sales 020 7373 1010
Lettings 020 7589 9966 Lettings 020 7731 7100 Lettings 020 7938 3866 Lettings 020 7235 9959 Lettings 020 7221 1111 Lettings 020 7373 1010
City Office Professional Valuations UK Commercial & Residential Residential Investment Property Management
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Carlyle Mansions | Chelsea | SW3 2121 sq ft (197 sq m)
A spacious four bedroom apartment, refurbished by the current owners to a high standard and presented in excellent order throughout. Large entrance hall | Drawing room | Dining room | Kitchen/breakfast room | Utility room Four bedrooms | Three bathrooms (two en suite) | Cloakroom. Asking price £3,850,000 Share of Freehold
Chelsea 020 7225 3866 KSA Knight Frank 020 7349 4300
Drayton Court | Chelsea | SW10 1,782 sq ft (166 sq m)
A beautifully refurbished four bedroom family flat benefiting from a wonderfully wide drawing room which leads onto a good size private balcony. 28’ drawing room | Kitchen | Four bedrooms | Three bath/shower rooms (two en suite) Dressing room | Two balconies | Lift | Porter Asking price £3,100,000 Share of Freehold
West Chelsea 020 7373 1010
020 7600 3456 020 7318 5039 020 7629 7282 020 7318 5196 020 7052 9417
Ralston Street | Chelsea | SW3 1,877 sq ft (174 sq m)
This three double bedroom maisonette is in excellent order throughout with excellent proportions and great light. Entrance Hall | Drawing Room | Kitchen/Breakfast room | Family room | Master bedroom with en suite | Two further bedrooms | Bathroom | Patio | Garden Asking price ÂŁ3,350,000 Share of Freehold
Chelsea 020 7225 3866
Drayton Court | Chelsea | SW10 1,711 sq ft (159 sq m)
A stunning and luxuriously refurbished four bedroom family flat providing sumptuous and practical lateral living space. Double reception room | Kitchen | Three bedrooms | Three bath/shower rooms (two en suite) Bedroom four/study | Lift | Porter Asking price ÂŁ1,950,000 Share of Freehold
West Chelsea 020 7373 1010
Chelsea Fulham & Parsons Green Kensington & Holland Park Knightsbridge, Belgravia & Mayfair Notting Hill & Bayswater West Chelsea & South Kensington
Sales 020 7225 3866 Sales 020 7731 7100 Sales 020 7938 3666 Sales 020 7235 9959 Sales 020 7221 1111 Sales 020 7373 1010
Lettings 020 7589 9966 Lettings 020 7731 7100 Lettings 020 7938 3866 Lettings 020 7235 9959 Lettings 020 7221 1111 Lettings 020 7373 1010
City Office Professional Valuations UK Commercial & Residential Residential Investment Property Management
020 7600 3456 020 7318 5039 020 7629 7282 020 7318 5196 020 7052 9417
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Bladon Lodge | Chelsea | SW5 Furnished / Unfurnished
Refurbished to an exacting standard, this four bedroom maisonette in one of Chelsea’s best addresses offers opulent lateral living with off street parking. Drawing room | Dining room | Kitchen | Master bedroom with bathroom en suite and dressing room | Three further bedrooms | Study / Utility room | Cloak room | Communal Gardens £4,500 per week
West Chelsea 020 7589 9966
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Lowndes Square | Knightsbridge | SW1 3,186 sq ft, (296 sq m)
A newly refurbished lateral apartment situated on the first floor of a portered building, overlooking this world renowned garden square. Entrance hall | Reception room | Dining room | Media room | Kitchen/ Breakfast room Five bedrooms & five bath/shower rooms | Porter | Access to communal gardens Asking price ÂŁ12,000,000 Leasehold
JSA Chesterton Humberts 020 7235 8090 Knightsbridge 020 7235 9959
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