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CONTENTS 15
30
Blessed Is The Season
Strictly Professional
Olivia Sharpe examines how the Royal Borough has contributed to the history and traditions of Christmas
The ever-charming Anton du Beke sheds light on his life in the world of ballroom; will he ever lift the Strictly glitterball?
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The Winter’s Tale
Mirror Mirror on the Wall…
Annabel Harrison examines the popular series Downton Abbey, meeting its star Hugh Bonneville and author Jessica Fellowes
Annabel Harrison delights in the Disney Princess fashion collaboration at Harrods. Who’s the fairest of them all?
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Singing Outside the Box
In the Realm of the Senses
With classical training backgrounds and unforgettable voices, Blake comprises four charming local gentlemen
Vietnam provides Nick Smith with a serene and relaxing getaway, in the form of the Six Senses Ninh Van Bay resort
124 The Good Life Nick Smith and Anwer Bati allow us all to benefit from their encyclopaedic epicurean knowledge, listing the top Champagnes and cigars with which to enjoy the festive period
Photography: Nick Smith
CONTENTS
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DECEMBER 2012 s ISSUE 010 Editor Annabel Harrison
Editor-in-Chief Lesley Ellwood
Contributing Editors Richard Brown, Gemma Taylor
Editorial Director Kate Harrison
Editorial Assistants Olivia Sharpe, Matilda Long
Brand Consistency Laddawan Juhong
Head of Design Hiren Chandarana
Head of Finance Elton Hopkins
Designer Sophie Blain
Associate Publisher Sophie Roberts
Production Manager Fiona Fenwick
Client Relationship Director Felicity Morgan-Harvey
Production Hugo Wheatley, Alex Powell
Managing Director Eren Ellwood
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Borough News
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Drinking & Dining
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Health & Beauty
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From the
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“Happy, happy Christmas, that can win us back to the delusions of our childish days; that can recall to the old man the pleasures of his youth; that can transport the sailor and the traveller, thousands of miles away, back to his own fireside and his quiet home!” These words, uttered by A Christmas Carol author Charles Dickens, carry a particular resonance as we approach the festive holiday; borough resident Lucinda Dickens Hawksley tells us about the legacy of her great-great-great-grandfather at the end of his bicentenary year (p. 36). For most of us and for Dickens too, a happy Christmas means time with our families and loved ones, respite from the pace of everyday life and days filled with religious significance, memories, childish excitement and festive cheer. Something that tends to cause an unnecessary amount of stress at this time of year is deciding what to bestow upon much-loved family and friends so, in the spirit of giving, we’re here to help. Be inspired by our beautiful Christmas present selection: choose jewels, gems, diamonds or pearls for the ladies you love; purchase luxurious leather items and fine watches for your husbands, fathers or sons; and invest in stylish and elegant dresses for festive family gatherings and social events. Of course, the Christmas calendar also includes a wealth of cultural delights in the form of drama, dance and music, providing the perfect indoor escapism when feet can no longer bear heels and coffee is more appealing than champagne. I spoke to Hugh Bonneville from Downton Abbey (p. 20) and Anton du Beke from Strictly Come Dancing (p. 30) about two of the season’s most popular television shows and Gemma Taylor recommends that albums by classical group Blake – comprising four charming local gentlemen with wonderful voices – form part of your seasonal music playlist (p. 26). In true festive spirit, Olivia Sharpe explores the Royal Borough’s historic contribution to the Christmas period (p. 15); it transpires that we can thank former residents for the modern day ubiquity of both the Christmas card and tree.
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All that remains is for me to wish Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night.
Editor
Annabel Harrison Follow us on Twitter @KandCMagazine or email KCeditor@runwildgroup.co.uk with any comments
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Blessed
Season IS THE
As London gears up for the biggest holiday in the global calendar, OLIVIA SHARPE takes a closer look at the Royal Borough’s historic contribution to the Christmas period
Church Steeple and Small Town at Christmas © PoodlesRockCorbis
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IT WAS DURING THE 19TH century that many of the traditions of Christmas which we celebrate today first materialised. This was largely thanks to a small group of people, all of whom had strong connections to the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea and indeed, it is because of them that many of these traditions are celebrated globally as well as locally in the 21st century. Queen Victoria was brought up in Kensington Palace, one of the area’s most historic landmarks. It was here that she met her future husband, Prince Albert, who subsequently introduced one of the most symbolic aspects of the winter festival to the British public. Having grown up in Germany, Albert wanted to incorporate his own childhood practices, one of these being the Christmas tree (a poignant symbol of the Germanic culture at the time). In a journal dated 1832, Queen Victoria wrote on Christmas Eve about her delight at having one installed in Windsor Castle with candles, ornaments, and presents placed round it. An image of the British royal family by their Christmas tree, which appeared in the Illustrated London News in 1848, caused such a stir that soon every home in Britain would similarly have a festive tree adorned with homemade decorations, candles, sweets, fruit and gifts. The royal couple were responsible for popularising a new
Former borough resident Sir Henry Cole introduced the holiday Christmas Card way of celebrating Christmas in Britain. Today, the average number of presents a child in the UK receives under their Christmas tree is 16 and it has been estimated that 976,000 Christmas trees are thrown away in London alone. It is a Blue Plaque Kensington and Chelsea resident, Sir Henry Cole, to whom we are indebted for the introduction of the holiday Christmas Card. In 1843, the English Civil Servant commissioned artist John Calcott Horsley to design a greeting card especially for the festive period. Its illustration revealed a group of people around a dinner table and a Christmas message. At one shilling each, this was dear for the average Victorian which meant that the cards were not instantly accessible. However, the sentiment soon caught on and many children (Queen Victoria’s included) were encouraged to make their own. Being a period of innovation and industrialisation, printing technology was also becoming more advanced, thereby enabling the mass production of Christmas cards. By 1880, the industry had produced 11.5 million cards and by the end of the 19th century,
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the commercialisation of Christmas was well under way; the Royal Mail estimates that approximately 700 million Christmas cards are now sent out every year. We cannot talk about Christmas without mentioning Charles Dickens, to whom we owe the revival of the season’s true ‘spirit’. Although not a local resident, Dickens was married to Catherine Hogarth at St. Luke’s Church on Sydney Street on 2 April 1836; this year marks the 176th anniversary of Dickens’ wedding and the bicentenary of his birth and as such the church is running an exhibition until the end of November about his life and achievements. The English writer sought to deconstruct the previously held church-centred observations and instead promoted Christmas as a family-orientated festival of generosity, charity and goodwill. This he achieved in 1843 with the release of the classic novel, A Christmas Carol, and in so doing, he influenced many aspects of Christmas which are still observed in Western culture today including family gatherings, seasonal food and drink, and an emphasis on benevolence. The Royal Borough has continued to take inspiration from Dickens’ Christmas message through its charitable endeavours. This 6 December, the Mayor of Kensington & Chelsea, Councillor Christopher Buckmaster, has organised a Christmas Carol Service at St Mary Abbots Church in Kensington. All proceeds will go directly to his chosen charities which include Open Range, Age Concern Kensington & Chelsea and the Pepperpot Club. Another of the borough’s most significant literary figures is Peter Pan author J.M. Barrie. It was in the picturesque setting of Kensington Gardens that he would meet the Llewelyn Davies boys who inspired him to write about the adventures of a young boy named Peter. This enchanting and magical tale has an enduring appeal, loved by both adults and children for its sense of nostalgia and focus on the family. As a result, it has
a regular slot in the Christmas events calendar, with pantomimes and productions based around the classic children’s story put on every single year. Likewise, the borough commemorates J.M. Barrie’s legacy annually with a dedicated Peter Pan cup swimming race at Christmas. The 100-yard race, organised by the Serpentine Swimming Club, started in 1864 with a gold medal prize. In 1904, the novelist presented the first Peter Pan Cup and the tradition has endured to this day. Of the 158,900 residents who currently reside in the borough, a significant number of these will honour the festival in some shape or form every year. In a recent survey conducted at the Chelsea Citizens’ Advice Bureau, staff and resident clients were asked to sum up what Christmas meant to them. Positive or negative, the running theme was the same; time spent with the family. This was the same for most of the people questioned, regardless of ethnicity, religion or race. On a rather more playful note, Chelsea resident Beatrice Petit Bon commented that “Christmas offers the perfect opportunity to sashay my mink coat up and down Sloane Street”. For us, Isabelle Schweich’s statement truly encapsulates our own sentiments: “Christmas in the borough is more festive than any other area in London; you walk outside and know exactly what time of year it is.”
Dickens promoted Christmas as a family-orientated festival of generosity, charity and goodwill
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The
Winter’s Tale ANNABEL HARRISON meets the charming Hugh Bonneville – currently on our screens as Lord Grantham in the acclaimed television drama Downton Abbey – and Jessica Fellowes, niece of Julian Fellowes and the resident Downton expert
FEATURE
All images courtesy of: The Chronicles of Downton Abbey by Jessica Fellowes and Matthew Sturgis, Collins
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DOWNTON DOWNTIME IT’S LUCKY I CAN tell the difference between characters and real people, otherwise I might have been rather shocked at how bearded Lord Grantham had allowed himself to become. Rather unbelievably, some people can’t make the same distinction; a casual, relaxed Hugh Bonneville explains with a chuckle that, following the onscreen death of his daughter Lady Sybil, “I faced such vitriol on Twitter because people think I really am Lord Grantham!” When I meet Hugh in SoHo House, his beard is the first thing I notice, courtesy of, I discover, the character he is currently playing; Mr Stink the tramp in the children’s book of the same name by comedian and author David Walliams. On screen, Hugh may be firmly anchored in the 20s but our conversation could not start with a more recent, pertinent topic, and one about which Hugh and I seem equally passionate. “I was thrilled that the Games became the success they did. I’d been looking forward to them for seven years and with Seb Coe leading so brilliantly, we got it right. It has been an amazing year to be British.” Hugh got tickets in the ballot for ‘Super’ Saturday; “We were 15-20 rows back and saw this amazing run of three gold medals. I was filming Downton at the time and was hoarse on set for three days afterwards. The atmosphere live was phenomenal and everyone was immensely proud.” Hugh and his colleagues were also lucky enough to be taken by their bosses at Downton to the Opening Ceremony, “an event I’ll never forget. Let’s face it, there was a general mood of nervousness leading up to the Olympics but within 30 seconds of the start of the Opening
Ceremony, it was as if there was a collective sigh of relief; it was all going to be fine. And it just got better and better. The opening sweep leading up to the molten rings was amazing theatre and it really set the tone for the Olympics. It was quirky and very British – taking the mickey and celebrating ourselves at the same time. I hope its legacy – to use that term – does inspire a generation”. The twinkle in Hugh’s eye at his use of the word legacy is of course because of his role as Ian Fletcher, Head of Deliverance for the Olympic Deliverance Commission, in the BBC’s documentary-comedy Twenty Twelve. Hugh describes the show (if you haven’t seen it, you should – it’s hilarious) as “John Morton’s satire about bad management and all the possible pitfalls of organising a big event like the Olympics” and he agrees with a smile “there were a few prescient things written into that series”; by way of example, the countdown clock broke and a bus of athletes got lost en route to the Olympic Village. Hugh has a good sense of humour; he self-deprecatingly points out that in terms of being sportingly-inspired, it’s “a bit late for fat old men like me!” (although 49 is hardly old, Hugh!). He has, however, been inspired to take up “attempting to touch my toes”. Halfway through filming Mr Stink when we meet, I imagine it’s a joy to take a break from Lord Grantham’s restrictive wardrobe? “It’s great being a complete mess and being able to eat lunch without the costume department rushing over to insist you put on a dressing gown.” Hugh’s wiry peppery-grey and brown beard is
“The Christmas special is gorgeous; a lovely episode”
FEATURE
missing tufts, for the part of course – “not exactly a look I’d go for!” – but he loves it. For the last three years, on Downton downtime, Hugh has grown a beard, tired of 5am shaving and “when they phoned up and asked if I wanted to play a tramp, I said yes and just kept the beard!” Of course, after three much-loved series of Downton Abbey, the third of which has just drawn to a close, Hugh is most recognised for his role as Lord Grantham, the patriarch of the household. “I’ve just finished the ADR [voice work] of the Downton Christmas special. It’s very different from last year because it’s not actually set at Christmas. It’s set in August / September and takes us away from the house for various reasons. I think it’s gorgeous; a lovely episode.” In reading Jessica Fellowes’ Chronicles of Downton Abbey, I came across this: “Robert Grantham is definitely drawn, in his personality if not his circumstance, from my dear departed father. In this, I mean to convey that he was a deeply moral man, cleverer possibly than Robert, who was always determined to do right, but without ever contesting the structure of his own social universe,” wrote the show’s creator Julian Fellowes. Hugh didn’t know this but it doesn’t surprise him; “it’s nice to know the character is based on someone Julian cared about. He has enormous affection for his characters and even with the baddies, you are somehow intrigued by or rooting for them; they all have shades to alleviate the evil, or the menace, in them. Robert does have liberal instincts, while being constrained by the world he grew up in, and he often makes foolish errors.” When I ask about Hugh’s plans for 2013, it seems he’ll be as busy as ever: “I’m due to do a film by John Morton in January called Church Going, which is the title of a Philip Larkin poem – John says it’s a ‘French art house film set in Cornwall’ – then waiting to see if Downton happens again.” You don’t know any more than we do? An emphatic “No!” Hugh is also turning his hand to producing a film next September, set in London in 1981; “I’m in the bizarre throes of turning producer, making things happen behind the camera – it’s fascinating seeing how everything comes together.” Hugh’s awareness about the myriad parts and various interests of his industry is evident; he
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is passionate about exploring the idea of convergence of screenings around the world because “it’s absolutely clear that the internet has changed everything but it’s a complex area and I’m dying to find out more.” He feels that production companies, broadcasters, the audience and advertisers are all short-changed and insulted when people watch “crappy, stuttering downloads” instead of the real thing; it was nothing short of “miraculous” that the episode in which Lady Sybil died wasn’t leaked online. Hugh currently lives with his family on the Hampshire/Sussex border but grew up in London and spent a lot of his younger years here. “I love its vibrancy, the mix of cultures, the huge improvement in restaurants over the last 30 years; the variety and the quality now is incredible. When I come up, every week or so, the energy is fantastic. I love going to the Natural History Museum and I used to adore going to the Science Museum as a kid. We’re blessed with that whole row of museums.” Perhaps Hugh can squeeze in a visit before his busy 2013 schedule starts, which I do hope includes Downton series four.
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JOLLY GOOD FELLOWES
ALTHOUGH LORD GRANTHAM declared, “My dear fellow. We all have chapters we would rather keep unpublished”, Jessica Fellowes’ books about Downton Abbey aim to ensure that these chapters are published and the characters’ flaws laid open for all to see. Local resident Jessica and I chat over coffee on a cold, sunny morning at Jamie Oliver’s Recipease in Notting Hill. The World of Downton Abbey accompanied series one and two and in it Jessica takes readers behind the scenes, documenting the realities of life in the Edwardian era and the life of the actors portraying it, both ‘upstairs’ and ‘downstairs’. The more recent Chronicles of Downton Abbey is the official companion to all three series, with a chapter focusing on each important member of the estate. Jessica’s uncle Julian, of whom she speaks most fondly, has written the foreword to both volumes. Perhaps Downton has resonated so much with its viewers because, he writes, “we made the decision to treat every character, the members of the family and the members of their staff, equally, in terms of their narrative strength. They all have emotional lives, dreams, ambitions and disappointments.”
The big emotional trial facing the Grantham family in series three was of course the death of Lady Sybil. “I cried during the read through,” Jessica admits. “We knew that it was going to happen but when it came to reading the script, in a town hall in Ealing, even with no props, or costumes, or set, we all wept. Not a dry eye in the house!” Jessica has had frequent access to the set where the fictional world of Downton is brought to life and the Edwardian era is a period she has always been drawn to. “Julian and I share an interest from a family point of view. My grandfather was born in 1914 and I loved hearing his stories. In that sense, it’s a very real era to me, which is how Julian feels too. Parallel to that my favourite authors have always been from 1910 to the 1920s; Evelyn Waugh, Scott Fitzgerald, Dorothy Parker, Graham Greene, Somerset Maugham.” Jessica learnt a lot while researching such a well-documented period because “I wanted as much first person material as possible”; as such Chronicles explores the series while also looking at the production and the social and historical context. Jessica explains how difficult it would have been for valet Thomas, as a gay man, at that time and how cold, tough ladies’ maid O’Brien would certainly be described nowadays as “damaged”. Did Jessica have an inkling about the success Downton might enjoy when Julian first mentioned it? “He is such an amazingly prolific worker that I can’t keep up with everything he’s doing! I do remember him talking about it when they were filming the first series; he obviously was excited because he tends not to say anything. They knew it had a fighting chance because it had great actors, great production and a lot of money being put into it.” A fighting chance is an understatement; more than ten million viewers tuned in and so here’s to another season.
DOWNTON-INSPIRED GIFTS FTS Many fans of Downton Abbey dream of visiting the setting of the drama: the magnificent Highclere Castle. Visitors from London who wish to stay the night nearby will not be disappointed by The Vineyard, a beautiful hotel eight miles from Highclere. As well as offering top quality comfort, the hotel is famed for its outstanding wine collection, boasting more than 30,000 bottles. The Vineyard Hotel Stockcross, Berkshire, RG20 8JU 01635 898 324; www.the-vineyard.co.uk
The Chronicles of Downton Abbey by Jessica Fellowes and Matthew Sturgis,Collins, £20
Even if you don’t have an estate like Downton on which to host a hunting party, you can dress as though you do in this Stella McCartney equestrian jacket. Natalie Tweed Equestrian Jacket £1,195, Stella McCartney www.matchesfashion.com
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Stay stylish this winter with this vintage-inspired hat Wool-felt Cloche Hat, £185, Stella McCartney, www.netaporter.com
The Crawley ladies can often be found sporting exquisite jewellery pieces; a dramatic headdress is ideal for imitating their high class style. Stellina Crystal Comb, £265 Jenny Packham www.jennypackhamshop.com
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Dine like a Crawley with this vintage motoring picnic set. From the 1920s, it contains cutlery, enamel plates, food tins, a kettle and tea pot with burner and flasks for the most lavish of picnics. En Route Motoring Picnic Case, £8,500 Bentleys, 204 Walton Street, SW3 2JL; www.bentleyslondon.com
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Singing
OUTSIDE THE BOX
Clockwise from top left / Humphrey Berney, Jules Knight, Stephen Bowman, Ollie Baines
FEATURE
With classical training backgrounds and a healthy dose of pop sentiment, Blake is pushing the boundaries of the boy band genre. GEMMA TAYLOR meets the four friends who are fighting to do things their own way LISTENING TO THE SOARING harmonies in the title track of Blake’s new album Start Over, you remember what genuine musical talent should sound like. Like reading a Salman Rushdie novel after Fifty Shades of Grey, Blake’s music is a panacea for souls usually fed on the carefully marketed computer constructions of a lot of today’s chart music. Blake tackle the familiar themes of love and heartbreak but with a conviction and gravitas borne from the fact that band members Ollie Baines, Stephen Bowman, Jules Knight and Humphrey Berney are all in their 30s. They communicate a refreshing wisdom and maturity lacking in the tween naivety of younger stars and their style reflects the same intelligent wit that has seen them deftly defend their unique sound. Unlike many pop bands formed by their members jamming in a parent’s garage with poorly-tuned guitars and a second-hand amp, Ollie and Jules met as sevenyear-old choristers at Winchester College. Fast-forward through a long period of different universities, colleges and careers and the friends reunited in their early 20s when they met Stephen and Humphrey through Facebook. Discovering their shared interest in music, the quartet met for a rehearsal and liked the sound their combined voices produced. Six years, two record deals and a staggeringly huge fan base of British housewives and Filipinos, among others, later I meet them in the aptly named Blake’s Hotel in the Royal Borough, where they all now live. As they debate about coffee or carrot juice, youngest member Jules stares into the distance. With a roguish smile that doesn’t quite reach his eyes, Jules cuts through the chatter to describe their fight for integrity in the face of a music industry that wanted to change them. He explains that the record label’s vision was “four guys who had this sort of Brideshead Revisited style upbringing and vibe. Actually, we’re not really like this, to be honest – maybe a kind of modern, updated version – and it was a clash of opinions. We were in our 20s when we started this job so they couldn’t just turn up and tell us what to do. We were already reasonably switched on about what we wanted and also scared about being pushed in a direction that we didn’t feel comfortable with.”
“They were talking about matching white suits and some bad choices about photos and we had to put our foot down.” Jules continues. “I think we, in a polite but firm way, even from the beginning, made it very clear that we knew what we wanted, and more importantly, we knew what we didn’t want. As a four we held strong and stuck together to make sure that if we were going to do this we were going to do it properly.” The first tussle with management was over the suggested launch name, Project Hackett. “It was awful!” Jules exclaims. “We went back to Universal and said we wanted something quintessentially British and they came up with Zeus. The night before our first public appearance, it was still Zeus, when they suggested Blake. William Blake wrote the words to Jerusalem, which was one of the main tracks on the first album. Very classical, very English and we loved it.” Despite these allusions to heritage and tradition, Blake is trail-blazing through pop convention. Joker of the group Stephen peppers conversation with amusing anecdotes and comments, speaking with a cheeky sparkle in his eye: “The funny thing is, as a group, we started off using the skills we learnt at university and school or as choristers, so we were quite classical to start with, but always with a hint of going towards pop music. We did a lot of pop covers in the classical harmony style, but with every album, we’ve got further away from what we were expected to do and further towards what we wanted to do; something genuinely different with vocal harmony, which led us finally to a pop album that uses vocal harmony strongly.” They describe themselves as a modern take on the Beach Boys; incredibly well-trained musicians who had a good knowledge of musicianship and singing as well as writing music, which as a result has produced some very detailed and beautiful tracks on Start Over. Nodding in agreement is father figure Humphrey, who perks up whenever the conversation comes back to music. “This album is definitely more mainstream, but it’s very much us because no one else as a group would do vocals like those. Rather than having intricate four-part harmonies over traditional classical backing or mumsy karaoke
“William Blake wrote the words to Jerusalem... Blake is very classical, very English and we loved it”
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backing it’s bona fide pop, from very good pop producers who have used our voices and London Symphony strings in a way that previous producers haven’t been able to. The results surprised even us! We didn’t expect to be able to sound the way we have. “You can hear influences of the Bee Gees, the Carpenters and more modern bands such as Take That. There are some anthemic songs and a Bob Dylan cover, which everyone thinks is Adele’s Make You Feel My Love and a Lone Star cover called Amazed. I think it’s typically Blake in the sense that it’s an emotional charged album with harmonic vocals. It’s about finding love, being in love and losing love and the tracks are split into those groups, so if people want to have a good cry there’s an opportunity alongside some punchy upbeat songs. It’s nice when an album can encapsulate lots of different feelings.” Using the ‘British effect’ to their advantage, Blake is set on every UK band’s dream: America. Reception in New York so far has been positive but it’s the Philippines where they have become national icons. “Filipinos are such romantic people. Singing is one of the most central parts of their culture; everyone is proud to sing. Their music knowledge and English is extraordinary and they recognise a lot of our early covers – gigs have a great sing-a-long atmosphere. They also love it that we are four men singing about love!” smiles Humphrey. China is also emerging as a big market for the charming quartet who clearly know how to woo a foreign crowd. Performing in front of a TV audience of 350 million people at the Shanghai International Film Festival, the Chinese equivalent of the Oscars, they sang in Mandarin.
Their accent made the lyrics sound like they were singing a heartfelt song about a washing cycle but the appreciation for their efforts was reflected in record sales. Despite international fame the men have their feet firmly on the ground. It seems any illusions about the job were quashed early on and although this has made them cynical, their eyes light up when they consider the longevity of the big stars they have met along the way. Dining with Morgan Freeman at The Mandarin Hotel in Kensington left a big impression. Humphrey seemed encouraged by the fact that as a struggling actor for most of his life, fame only came to Freeman in his late 40s / early 50s. Stephen recalls being a victim of the Hollywood actor’s dry sense of humour: “When we approached the table, I went up to shake Morgan’s hand. When I took his hand, he just, in a very loud voice that most of the restaurant could hear, goes, ‘You called me what?’, and everybody looked around. I was just like, ‘I’m sorry’.... He said, ‘You called me what?... No I’m just joshing with you. Sit down!’” Musically, one of the most amazing people they met was Jennifer Hudson. Singing after Blake at a charity event in the States, Jennifer came on stage to the racket of 1,200 of the crème de la crème of the music industry who had rudely chatted through the previous dozen performers. The boys look wistful as Stephen describes how they all “shut the hell up” as the vocal star started performing. Tom Jones put things in perspective when they were all recording at the same studios. “It was a touching moment when he was listing all the people he had met in his incredible career and he just went quiet
Dining with Morgan Freeman at The Mandarin Hotel in Kensington left a big impression on Blake
Anthemic: Soaring harmonies move emotional crowds in the Philippines
FEATURE
Keeping it local: The four all live in Kensington within walking distance of each other
for a second and said, ‘Of course, most of them are dead now’,” recalls Stephen. Longevity is something that the four members of Blake always come back to. They’ve seen the overnight pop phenomenon too many times. Humphrey looks sad as he describes the fate of those who burn so bright, produce an album then vanish when the next reality TV star falls onto the conveyor belt. For Blake, it’s not about being a gimmick or trying to sell lots of CDs at the expense of integrity. It’s taken them nearly two years to complete an album that they admit could have been produced in just three months. After listening to an early version last year, they realised that it needed reworking, at huge expense. But to release it half-baked is not what artistic perfectionists do. They reminisce about their international successes: an 150,000-strong gig in Australia, 70,000-member audiences in the Philippines and their impending US domination, but look very Brideshead as they all agree that there’s no place like home.
BEST SONGS FOR... Energy: “Start Over” from the new album (Humphrey) Heartbreak: “What Is My Heart To Do” and “Make You Feel My Love” (Stephen) “Fields of Gold” by Sting (Humphrey) Funeral: “Let’s Get It Started” by the Black Eyed Peas (Stephen doesn’t want people to be sad) Songs of Farewell by Hubert Parry (Jules thinks they are beautiful and British and had the hymn “Sunset and Evening Star” played at his father’s funeral) Road trip: “Road To Nowhere” by Dire Straits (Jules); Queen: Greatest Hits (Humphrey’s best band of all time); Stephen says a lot of their inspiration for covers comes from listening to the radio while touring: “A song comes on and we start randomly harmonising it. It’s a great way of finding new records and song ideas.”
BLAKE-SPOTTING IN THE BOROUGH Stephen’s favourite haunts run all along the Fulham road, especially the fun and quirky restaurant Maggie Jones’s. Humphrey lives on the King’s Road so regularly brunches at The Bluebird. The group often pop into the Big Easy, the location for long, late, boozy nights for Blake on many occasions, plus the burgers there are some of the best in town. For a real party, the group hit Raffles, where they can end up in danger of losing their voices. Start Over is released on 11 February 2013. Visit www.blakeofficial.com for more information and tour dates
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FEATURE
Strictly PROFESSIONAL ANNABEL HARRISON meets Anton du Beke, Strictly Come Dancing stalwart and a consummate charmer WITH AUTUMN CAME cold weather, winter coats, dark mornings and a yearning for respite in the form of warmth and sunshine. The BBC might not be able to send us all to the Caribbean but it has done a sterling job in lifting the winter gloom by offering us evenings replete with sequins, sparkles, sambas and tangos. Over the course of ten series, starting in 2004, the nation’s collective dance vocabulary has vastly improved; how many of us could have debated the relative merits and baffling intricacies of a fleckerl, a samba roll, an American Smooth and ‘armography’? Year after year, I’m amazed by the number of articles I read in which the interviewee expresses their hope of being approached for Strictly; it is surely the only show of its type to be raising the bar in terms of the calibre of its contestants, rather than scraping the barrel. Of the troupe of Strictly professionals, as popular as the celebrities themselves and critical in terms of securing the all-important audience votes, only three have been on the show from the start, along with Brucie and Tess; Brendan Cole, Anton du Beke and his dance partner Erin Boag. I meet Anton prior to the start of series ten, just before he is due to be gifted with one of the celebrity ladies and before every waking hour must be
spent training said contestant to a standard where she might not be lambasted by the acid-tongued Craig Revel Horwood or relegated to the dreaded dance-off. His last two partners have come in the shape of the unforgettable Ann Widdecombe and the unbelievable Nancy Dell’Olio and so, Anton admitted, “as soon as you see the line-up, you’ll know who I’m going to get!” True enough, the moment former model Jerry Hall sashayed onto the stage, it was easy enough to guess who would be Anton’s partner. Anton points out, in his genial, gentlemanly manner which is just as genuine in real life as it appears on television, that dancing with these “fascinating characters” is more interesting: “If I want to dance fabulously I dance with Erin but it’s not about that; it’s about having a great time and putting on a show. As long as you have a partner who is enjoying the process and who’s a good character, you can have a lot of fun.” In terms of his current partner, Anton declares it was “an absolute joy working with Jerry. I struck gold with her.” Funny and glamorous she may be, Jerry has already thwarted the couple’s chances of lifting the coveted glitter ball, leaving after only the second competitive show. However, I don’t think Anton particularly cares.
Of the Strictly professionals, only three have been on the show from the start
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FEATURE
He is very relaxed and takes Strictly refreshingly less seriously than many of the other couples, even though every step on his career path has been a dance step. He started dancing in his early teens and “it was a short time after that I thought, ‘this is what I wanted to do’”. He has been dancing with Erin for 16 years; following the end of the 2012 Strictly season, they will take a short break before their fifth tour kicks off in the spring, entitled Anton & Erin Go To Hollywood. Even the name of the tour suggests that while Anton may be impeccably and flamboyantly proficient at Latin dancing, his heart lies with ballroom and the era of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. Anton likes the formality of dressing for dinner and he believes “there are certain things that should continue, like the opening and closing nights [of a show] should remain smart”. He is also pleased about the addition of Darcey Bussell to the judging panel, based on her professional expertise and the fact she can comment with authority on technique. Anton clearly adores Erin, praising her for her immense talent and having the patience of a saint: “She is the perfect foil and a wonderful person. The thing I admire about Erin the most is her determination; she came to the UK from New Zealand, the other side of the world, with nothing except a hope of bettering herself through her dancing. She is an admirably gifted girl and I am lucky to have her as a partner.” After such sincerity, the playful, jocular Anton is back in an instant; in answer to my question about a dream partner, other than Erin, he fires back, “You!” He jokes that Erin is in fact famous enough to partner him: “She could come in as a celebrity and I could dance with her. I know it would be cheating but I don’t care. But just imagine if we didn’t win, being beaten by someone off Hollyoaks!” Out of the Strictly bubble, Anton is a keen golfer – “golf is my hobby and dancing is my salvation”; his handicap is six and after our chat he is heading off to play golf with the sprightly octogenarian Sir Bruce Forsyth. He’s game for almost anything: “If they asked me, I’d give Dancing On Ice a go! Although I don’t think they could afford me in terms of insurance. It would be fun but I’ve never skated in my life!” He is passionate about London and his favourite restaurant is at the Ritz because “the staff are immaculate and it is just perfect”. Strictly series ten is now halfway through and Jerry Hall packed up her dancing shoes weeks ago. Did Anton ever think he had a chance of winning? “Probably not; all I ever want is to give it a good bash and, if I stay in a few weeks, have some fun and make an impact.” Jerry, who came across as carefree and happy on the show with a beaming smile, managed something many of the contestants struggle with; she can certainly dance like no one is watching and no doubt Anton was a reassuring presence every time she stepped out into the spotlight.
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FOR DANCE FANS
It’s old Hollywood glamour all the way for dance fans as Anton & Erin Go To Hollywood; their fifth show, touring nationwide in 2013, celebrates the golden years of MGM musicals www.antonanderin.com
Sparkle like a Strictly star in this sequinned party frock Paris dress, £1,349 www.rachelgilbert.com
Do you want to learn your Botafago from your Volta Cross without leaving the comfort of your sofa? If so, Anton’s new book B Is For Ballroom, a comprehensive and entertaining guide to all things ballroom-dance, is perfect for aspiring twinkletoes. www.constablerobinson.com
In the temporary absence of Notting Hill’s Electric Cinema, other London venues are embracing the glamour of classic Hollywood films. Don’t miss the screening of classic silent movies at The Barbican, with the score played by a live orchestra. www.barbican.org.uk
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Royal Borough
NEWS Covering the whole Royal Borough: Kensington, Chelsea, Knightsbridge, Notting Hill and Holland Park
Illustration: Mai Osawa
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Local
PROFILE
© John Quintero
WRITING RUNS IN Lucinda Dickens Hawksley’s genes and 2012 has been a particularly exciting year for her. Lucinda’s great-great-great-grandfather was Charles Dickens and she has delved deep into her own family history to write a fascinating new biography – Charles Dickens; Dickens Bicentenary 1812-2012 – to commemorate the 200th anniversary of his birth. “Charles Dickens is still one of England’s greatest celebrities; his books have never been out of print and my biography examines what he was like as a father, friend and employer,” explains Lucinda. Her beautifully illustrated, meticulously researched guide to Dickens’ life follows him from the dark, miserable days of his early childhood – when his family was sent to debtor’s prison and he was forced to work at a blacking factory – to his meteoric rise to become the brightest literary star of his era. When we meet at a local café I am struck by Lucinda’s resemblance to other members of the Dickens’ family. Like her great-great-great-grandfather Lucinda has large, soulful eyes but they are startlingly blue, unlike Dickens, who had brown eyes. The author of 20 books, she has obviously inherited Dickens’ extraordinarily restless energy and journalistic talent. Lucinda’s recent work schedule has been dizzy: “This year has been crazy, but exhilarating, with all the interest generated by Dickens’ bicentenary. Last week I gave talks about Dickens in six countries in seven days,” she tells me. I ask Lucinda, also a prize-winning travel writer, where she has been. “My travels have taken me to the Galápagos Islands during the Ecuadorian coup, through the souks of Syria and to the Spice Islands of Zanzibar,”
REBECCA WALLERSTEINER speaks to local author Lucinda Dickens Hawksley about her new book which commemorates the bicentenary of her great-great-greatgrandfather Charles Dickens’ birth
she recalls. Adventurous and bored by routine, Dickens equally longed to explore the world. He crossed America on a lecture tour and lived in France and Italy for a time. Closer to home Lucinda loves to wander around local streets, drawing inspiration from observing passers-by and intriguing snippets of their conversation. “My great-greatgreat-grandfather spent hours walking across London, from his lodging house to work. Street life provided him with ideas for his novels,” says Lucinda. Dickens had many connections with Kensington and Chelsea; he married Catherine, the eldest daughter of George Hogarth, Editor of the Evening Chronicle, at the newly built St. Luke’s Church on Sydney Street in 1836. In 1850 Notting Dale featured in the first issue of his Household Words Journal. Lucinda has inherited her great-great-greatgrandfather’s natural talent for public speaking and gives talks on literary subjects. She recently held a Dickens workshop at the Rococo Chocolate Shop on Motcomb Street and has several other local talks planned. Dickens also appeared publicly in Kensington. “He was a natural actor and his earliest career ambition was to make his name on
PROFILE
the stage,” says Lucinda. Notting Hill theatres gave him an early platform when he starred in Wilkie Collins’ play The Lighthouse at Campden House, the original Notting Hill Gate Arts Club. He also appeared at the Twentieth Century Theatre at the corner of Westbourne Grove. Dickens frequently walked to Kensington to visit Katey, his favourite daughter, who spent much of her married life within the area. Lucinda, an expert in the Dickens family history, has also written a biography of Katey, who first married the chronically ailing Charlie Collins, brother of author, Wilkie Collins and they lived at Thurloe Square. After Charlie died, she married a handsome Italian artist, Carlo Perugini, who she met and fell in love with at her friend Lord Leighton’s house, near Holland Park. After their marriage they lived near High Street Kensington close to her brother Henry, who lived on Mulberry Walk. Lucinda, like Dickens, is politically aware. “I recently went on a march to try to save five West London Accident and Emergency Departments from closure,” she says, adding “the hardship, humiliation and loneliness of Dickens’s childhood made him determined to draw public attention to the social injustice of his time.” He found a soulmate in Angela Burdett-Coutts, a wealthy heir to the Coutts bank fortune, and they created a number of charitable schemes to fight the deprivation they saw about them. Burdett-Coutts was particularly concerned about the many prostitutes who worked the streets near her home, near Shepherd’s Bush, many of whom were just children. She and Dickens set up Urania Cottage, a haven for fallen women at Lime Grove. Although Burdett-Coutts put up most of the money, Dickens became passionately involved in this charity and appointed a matron and servants. Burdett-Coutts’s philanthropy enabled the Royal Marsden Hospital in South Kensington to be built and her portrait still presides over the main staircase. Lucinda has spent the last four years writing a biography of Princess Louise, Queen Victoria’s sixth child, who lived in Kensington Palace – to be published by Chatto in January 2014. “Much of my research was carried out at the Victoria and Albert National Art Library in South Kensington,” she says. Her other favourite local haunts are Leighton House and the Linley Sambourne House in Holland Park – both of which have connections with the Dickens
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family. Lucinda has also written a book about Lizzie Siddal, who was a muse and model to several Pre-Raphaelite artists, but died young after becoming addicted to laudanum. The Tate Gallery is showing some of Lizzie’s paintings as part of its Pre-Raphaelite exhibition (on now until 13 January 2013). Lucinda has returned to the late Victorian era with her book about the Woman’s Movement, to be published next summer by André Deutsch. “Dickens brought his own love of Christmas to the masses,” says Lucinda. He could be said to have invented Christmas as we know it with his creation of the characters of Ebenezer Scrooge, Bob Cratchit, Tiny Tim and the Spirits in A Christmas Carol, published in 1843 and an immediate bestseller. In a few weeks we will be celebrating Dickens’ bicentenary Christmas and Lucinda’s new book, which contains rarely seen photographs and fascinating removable items from Charles Dickens’s personal archive, would make an intriguingly unusual stocking filler.
BOOKS
by Lucinda Dickens Hawksley • Charles Dickens (right) Published by André Deutsch, £30 • Lizzie Siddal, The Tragedy of a Pre-Raphaelite Supermodel Published by André Deutsch, 2008 • Katey, The Life and Loves of Dickens’s Artist Daughter Published by Double Books, 2006
LonDon TALKS by Lucinda Dickens Hawksley
• 16 December 2012, national Portrait Gallery 3pm: A Dickensian Christmas Tour • 19 December 2012, British Council 6.30pm: A special Dickens talk for English Language teachers Tickets are free but places are limited
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Royal Borough News The latest news, best events and areas of interest for residents of the Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea
Hark the Herald Angels Sing There’s nothing quite like a verse of O Come All Ye Faithful to get you into the Christmas mood. Throughout December, the whole of London shall be rejoicing in the spirit of the season with carol services taking place in churches across the Capital. The churches of the Royal Borough will be preparing to impress local residents with various performances and one not to miss is St Luke’s Advent Carol Service at the start of the month. Situated on Sydney Street, the Chelsea parish has been delighting its local congregation for more than a century, first consecrated by the Bishop of London on St Luke’s Day, 18 October 1824. There will also be a charity fund-raising carol service taking place on 4 December; all are welcome and tickets are priced between £10 and £20. 2 December, 6.30pm St Luke’s Advent Carol Service
Romantic Masterpiece The Royal Albert Hall has announced plans to revive Director David Freeman’s acclaimed production of Georges Bizet’s classic opera Carmen, which first premiered in 2002 and has since been seen by an astonishing 30,500 people. There will be 14 performances in total and the company will comprise more than 100 people, including acrobats and fire jugglers. The role of Carmen will be shared by leading sopranos Cristina Nassif and Antonia Sotgiu, while her tragic love Don José will be played by Noah Stewart and Paul Charles Clarke. Carmen, 21 February – 3 March 2013 Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore; www.royalalberthall.com
Santa’s Grotto Father Christmas shall be making several stops in the borough this Christmas, one of these being in Duke of York Square where he will be made to feel truly at home with his very own magical Lapland grotto. Young visitors will have the chance to have their photo taken with Santa Claus, meet his dancing elves and scoop sweets from a giant confectionary treasure chest. Santa’s Grotto will be open every Saturday from 10 November and then open Wednesdays through to Sundays throughout December up until Christmas Eve. Santa’s Grotto Duke of York Square, SW3 4LY www.dukeofyorksquare.com Places are limited and must be booked at least one day in advance
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Luxurious Boxing Day Bargains Traditionally the day when servants and tradespeople would receive gifts from their superiors or employers, Boxing Day is now a universal public holiday and, in the case of Britain, Canada, New Zealand and some states in Australia, it is primarily known as a shopping holiday. If you can face the rather overwhelming prospect of bargain-hunting shoppers, head to Harvey Nichols in Knightsbridge where you will be sure to find some incredible bargains; with luxury brands and designer items on sale, you will think that Christmas has come all over again. Alternatively, head to neighbouring department store Harrods for the start of its infamous January sales.
In the Republic of Happiness “What are you doing here Robert?” “Well, to be frank with you, I’ve really no idea. I thought I would just suddenly appear, so I did. I suddenly appeared.” A family Christmas is interrupted, not by Father Christmas appearing out of the fireplace but by a far less welcome arrival of the provocative Uncle Bob and his wife (who refuses to exit the car). Martin Crimp’s latest production follows the hugely successful The City (directed by Katie Mitchell), along with the writer’s previous Royal Court credits which include Attempts On Her Life, The Country, Face to the Wall, Fewer Emergencies, Advice to Iraqi Women, The Treatment, No One Sees the Video and a translation of The Chairs (with Complicité). Crimp’s laugh-out-loud satire is certain to bring a glow to your heart this Christmas with its candid portrayal of familial relationships. 6 December 2012 – 19 January 2013 Royal Court Theatre, Sloane Square, SW1W 8AS 020 7565 5000; www.royalcourttheatre.com
Attenborough & Fuller’s Drawn From Paradise The evening of 27 September was one that our editor Annabel Harrison will never forget, as she attended a Q&A session with Sir David Attenborough and Errol Fuller, hosted by Times+, about their new book Drawn from Paradise. Annabel reports:“As a starter for ten, Attenborough’s voice is just as mesmerising in reality as it sounds on his documentaries reports: so his answers about the book, with co-author Errol Fuller, were fascinating. It takes readers on a journey through the cultural history of the birds of paradise, one of the most exquisite, extravagant, colourful and intriguing families of birds.” From the early 16th century, their unique beauty was recognised and commemorated in Europe by the first name that they were given – birds so beautiful must be from paradise. Attenborough and Fuller trace the history of these enigmatic birds through their depiction in western works of art over the centuries, featuring beautiful illustrations by artists such as Jacques Barraband, William Hart, John Gould, Rubens and Breughel. Nature and art enthusiasts will delight in this journey of discovery of the world’s most beautiful, mysterious birds. Published by Collins, £30 (RRP)
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THE ROYAL BOROUGH
Royal Borough News Covering the whole Royal Borough: Kensington, Chelsea, Knightsbridge, Notting Hill and Holland Park
School’s Out! Before the revamp of Holland Park School came about, it was just a series of detached, 1950s-style buildings dispersed across an unusually large site. Disjointed and disconnected, these weren’t the most aesthetically pleasing or functional of buildings and as a result of this, plans began to consolidate all school activity into a single, large building. The impressive new six-storey structure is divided into two distinct halves, separated by a central atrium stretching the full length of the building and linked by a series of walkways on each level; it features state-ofthe-art amenities including top quality dance, drama, arts, science and technology facilities, a 25-metre swimming pool and a four-court sports hall. Proudly commenting on his school’s innovative new design, Colin Hall, Head of Holland Park, said: “We think our new building is iconic, dynamic, original and wonderfully constructed. It is a new London landmark, setting a new standard for such public buildings.” Work on the £80 million project finished last month and the students move in on 19 November, to their delight. www.hollandparkschool.co.uk
Laughing With the Queen At one of the popular V&A evening talks, famed photographer Rankin discussed his career and how it photographing sitters that include royalty and refugees. Gemma Taylor reports: “When Rankin launched Dazed and Confused magazine in 1992 he was a jumped-up photography graduate who would have mown down his own grandmother to get a good photograph. Now, at 46-years-old, he just wants to make people smile and runs his Rankin empire with a charm and wit that gives him regular access to the likes of Tony Blair, Madonna and Her Majesty The Queen. To get this shot was no mean feat. As Her Majesty approached the room, Rankin saw her laughing and joking with a bodyguard. ‘It was a side of her character that, because of her Uncle’s abdication and the near fall of the monarchy, she doesn’t often let people see,’ said Rankin. When he accidentally dropped his camera lens, the Queen couldn’t help but smile and after some encouragement from Rankin in the manner of Austin Powers, he managed to get this one rare snapshot of her smiling.” For more information on upcoming talks and events at the Victoria and Albert Museum on the Cromwell Road, please visit www.vam.ac.uk/whatson
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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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Royal Borough News Covering the whole Royal Borough: Kensington, Chelsea, Knightsbridge, Notting Hill and Holland Park
Hold Your Horses The world’s best equestrian party will be going full steam ahead in celebration of its 40th birthday this December with the introduction of the third FEI World CupTM Qualifier, following the successful launch of international Driving to the Show format in 2011. The show will also celebrate our tremendous successes in all three equestrian disciplines at London 2012 during the evening performance on 19 December, as GB’s Showjumping, Dressage and Eventing gold and silver medallists take part in a Medal Parade while the audience is taken through the highs as seen recently at Greenwich and London 2012. Although principally for horseloving enthusiasts (attracting more than 80,000 visitors from all over the UK), the event also enables visitors to stock up on Christmas gifts with the on-site Shopping Village boasting more than 200 shops and stalls stocking items ranging from food, gifts, homeware, clothing, art, jewellery and much more.
Magic Wand Appeal In a bid to raise funds for the Brain Tumour Research Campaign, our Mayor of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, Cllr Christopher Buckmaster has pledged to raise funds to buy a £250,000 Sonowand, a vital piece of neurosurgery equipment, for Imperial College’s Charing Cross Hospital. Speaking at the launch of the Mayor’s Annual Charitable Appeal, the Magic Wand Appeal, on Thursday 11 October at Kensington Town Hall, Cllr Buckmaster said: “I aim to increase public awareness of the desperate need for more funding and to raise funds for research at Imperial College’s Charing Cross Hospital, ultimately to create there an International Centre of Excellence in Brain Tumour Research. All donations or funds raised by my appeal will go directly to the research.” On Thursday 6 December there will be a special Christmas Carol Concert, at St Mary Abbots Church featuring British composer John Rutter, which is just one of a series of events planned by the Mayor to increase funds for the Sonowand and Brain Tumour Research Campaign. If you would like to donate to the Mayor’s Appeal or book tickets for the Carol Concert please email mayor@rbkc.gov.uk or call 020 7361 2431/020 7361 3659
The London International Horse Show 17-23 December Olympia, W14 8UX www.olympiahorseshow.com
Winter Warmth In a heart-warming campaign, the Kensington and Chelsea Foundation is preparing for its second winter battle to help those in the borough keep warm during the freezing months. This year, the team hopes to reach double the number of people in the area as last year, both for giving and receiving. A pamphlet is currently being distributed around the borough asking for those who can to donate their Winter Fuel Payment to the Foundation, who will, with the help of various charities, redistribute it to those in fuel poverty. Recent statistics have revealed that 62 per cent of the borough residents over 65 live alone, 15 per cent have no central heating and that 13 per cent of the households live in fuel poverty, compared to a London average of 8.3 per cent. Last year, thanks to a grant from the Kensington and Chelsea Foundation, a man was able to turn on his gas, which he had been living without for five years; Age UK K&C checked he was on the right tariffs and had the correct entitlements www.thekandcfoundation.com
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Sports for Art Who would have thought that the son of Gianni Paladini, former chairman of Queens Park Rangers football club, would have been destined for a vocation in the art world? Although as up for a game of footie as most men, Stephen Paladini discovered his passion for art as a young child when he would spend all of his pocket money to buy rolls of wallpaper in order to paint scenes upon material. After school, he trained as a graphic designer while continuing to develop his art. Self-taught, Stephen has never followed any artistic conventions, often choosing to paint with his hands rather than a brush as this gives him the freedom to create dynamic and unusual artwork. His latest body of work uses a combination of colour and enamel on wood. Stephen has always been fascinated with architectural photography and historical features from the Romans to Byzantium and this resonates with his present collection as his pieces possess a rustic edge. Stephen Paladini’s work is now available to view by appointment only and seen at various exhibitions featured at Mews42 Gallery in London. www.mews42.com. Exhibition organised by Aurelia Bonito Event Management
Race to Represent The Borough
Karter Success One of the borough’s looked after children from Whistler Walk in World’s End has clinched a place on the starting grid of the national Red Bull Kart Fight final. The driving prowess of Tijan (aged 16) has seen him win a succession of races to reach the final which takes place at Buckmore Park in Kent. The winner will be chosen to represent the UK in the world finals in Italy in December. Tijan is extremely dedicated to his sport and, as a looked after child, receives support from the Council. Cllr Elizabeth Campbell, Cabinet Member for Family and Children’s Services, said: “Well done to Tijan for making the final which is a big achievement in itself. He clearly has a great deal of talent and determination and I wish him the best of luck when he takes on the top karters in the country. I would also like to thank everyone at Whistler Walk who has helped Tijan and made it possible for him to compete at such a high level.” Tijan said: “Karting means a lot to me as I am extremely passionate about my racing as it is a sport I love. I have been supported right through with the help of my carers, family and the borough.”
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Inspired by the incredible efforts of Mo Farah and Jessica Ennis, more than 260 pupils took part in the annual mini-marathon trials in October. Pupils competed for the right to represent the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea at November’s London Youth Games Cross Country event and next year’s Virgin Mini London Marathon. The three kilometre race, held in Holland Park, proved very competitive with more than 260 runners giving it their all. The overall team event was won by Cardinal Vaughan Memorial School. Queensgate School won the girls overall event while the boys overall event was won by Cardinal Vaughan Memorial School. The Mayor of the Royal Borough, Cllr Christopher Buckmaster was on hand to cheer the young runners on. Commenting on the race he said: “We’ve had an inspirational summer of sport and I’ve just seen some really committed young runners. Congratulations to the winners and to all those that took part and also to the staff from schools and the Council who helped organise this exciting event.”
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Antiques &
AR T CAROL CORDREY finds works of art both old and new to inspire and enrich our lives
The Time of Year for Enchantment A rich mix of colours and styles from historic Japanese, Indian and Persian art combine with many from the modern era to feed Melissa Launay’s fertile imagination. As a result, enchanting, soft images of the natural world flow from her hands in the form of haunting forests, thick, undulating duvets of snow and cool, blue lakes which provide the habitats for her exotic birds and animals. Launay’s work has been used by American and British publishers for illustrating children’s books but it has also proved popular for children’s murals, including a number for the charity Kids’ Company. Her latest book for children, My Mama Earth, was well received in bookshops earlier this year. The exhibition at the Jonathan Cooper Park Walk Gallery showcases a range of Launay’s recent artwork which perfectly complements the expectations of Christmas time when dreams become reality and the first snowfalls transform landscapes into scenes of beauty.
A Tree of Feathers by Melissa Launay
Just Like Owls by Melissa Launay
The Enchanted Landscape 6-24 December www.jonathancooper. co.uk Tears Are Falling by Melissa Launay
Q&A with Kate Gordon about her new programme, London Art Studies Q: Did you establish the programme to encourage an interest in fine art, in collecting or for serious art study? A: London Art Studies – lectures on fine and decorative arts – are aimed at anyone who simply wants to learn more about art. The wide variety, from modern British and contemporary art through to photography and jewellery, are “stand-alone” one-day courses, perfect for busy people. Collectors and art advisors regularly attend as well as people just wanting to learn about particular art subjects. The courses give wonderful background information to some of London’s exciting exhibitions.
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Q: How often are the talks held, what format do they take and what is the cost? A: Twice a week during academic term times, 10am to 2.30pm and limited to 16 people to encourage a sociable, lively exchange of ideas. Each one-day course costs £175 for the day and we are offering a new season ticket covering six lectures for the price of £875; we think it’s a great Christmas present.
Q: Was there a reason for placing London Art Studies at the Berkeley Hotel in Knightsbridge? A: Most classes are in the private dining room of Koffmann’s who is the “chef of chefs” and a great art-lover himself. He has created special
menus for the London Art Studies so lunch is a highlight of the day and an opportunity to speak to the lecturer.
Q: Are the speakers specialists in their fields and which of their talks can still be booked for the start of 2013? A: All the lecturers are specialists, selected for their academic credentials and for their accessible lecturing style. Spring term bookings are available on the website and I’m particularly excited about February as we are looking at the topic of love throughout art! www.londonartstudies.com
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Auctions &
AR T CAROL CORDREY recommends local exhibitions worth attending and auctions with prize lots on offer
Bambi – the New Banksy? Once upon a time street artists attracted public outrage but now the talented, subversive works of such villains, including Banksy and Blek le Rat, attract very large price tags; people no longer dread but dream of discovering examples of it on their premises. The street art story has acquired a new chapter in which the main character is female. She confuses the local Bobby by signing her work with the name Bambi. He tries to capture her but she cleverly uses stencils and spray paints to produce powerful pictures that hold a mirror up to social issues then she disappears into the dark. People start to love her pictures, including famous folk like Brad Pitt and Adele. Bambi pleases them even more by making very limited edition prints so that they remain rare but available to keen collectors and the news spreads far and wide. The next chapter in the story will be just as exciting as it unfolds around the collectors at Walton Fine Arts but you’ll need to be as quick as Bambi to get your hands on it.
New Online Picture Auctions The innovative 25 Blythe Road auction house has set its sights on producing new ways of making the selling and buying of works of art as simple and as efficient as possible. Its latest idea launches on 17 December with an online auction and represents a totally electronic system of accepting and selling pictures of all values. George Duckett, picture specialist at the auction house, has responded to the huge increase in Internet bidding by introducing a system that allows sellers to submit items for valuation online. A catalogue of items will be shown on the website prior to each auction, followed by a series of actual, traditional day and evening views at 25 Blythe Road. The subsequent auction will occur purely online so that bidders can see the accumulating bids and instantly respond to them from wherever they are in the world, using their computers, tablets or Internet-enabled phones. It is the way forward for busy people unable to spend hours at auctions or clinging to phones patiently waiting for works of art to reach the podium. 25 Blythe Road, Kensington, W14 0PD Sellers should email images of their paintings now to enquiries@25blytheroad.com for pre-auction valuations; visit www.25blytheroad.com for more information
Exhibition until 24 November; www.waltonfinearts.com
The Acclaimed Sherree Valentine Daines Children enjoying the great outdoors and young beaux enjoying the most popular social events typify the internationally acclaimed paintings of Sherree Valentine Daines, though she is sought after, also, as a top quality portraitist. At Whitewall Gallery, she ranks as one of their most popular artists so the creation of her latest body of work has caused a flurry of excitement with collectors and admirers awaiting its arrival with keen anticipation. The new compositions are available as originals and as limited edition prints but only while stocks last so if you want a collectable, thoroughly desirable Christmas gift, this could be it. Throughout December (while stock available) Whitewall Gallery, 100 Westbourne Grove, Notting Hill, W2 5RU www.whitewallgalleries.com
Art’s Most Wanted Beatlemania for George’s Jacket Item: George Harrison’s black, leather jacket worn on stage during early 1960s Beatles appearances and one of the most important items of Beatles clothing ever to come onto the market Estimated Value: £90,000 – £120,000, Date: 12 December Location: Bonhams, Montpelier Street, Knightsbridge, SW7 1HH www.bonhams.com
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Arts
FOR LIFE
CAROL CORDREY finds out more about the new arts initiative being put into place by the Chelsea and Westminster Health Charity in its support of the Hospital, in collaboration with the Serpentine Gallery, Christie’s auction house and the Royal College of Music LONG AGO, IN THE 19TH century, the benefits of the arts to patient wellbeing were both clearly known and enunciated by that icon of medical care, Florence Nightingale OM (1820-1910): “Variety of form and brilliancy of colour in the objects presented to patients, are actual means of recovery,” she declared. The significance of her words was not lost on those responsible for the design of the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital which became the first hospital in the UK to incorporate site specific artworks and performance spaces into its building. Statistics from its recent survey will be greeted by most of us with surprise for they confirm, beyond doubt, that the hospital’s arts attitude to the arts has been a remarkable success: there has been a 31 per cent decrease in depression through music; 80 per cent of patients found art improved their mood; 65 per cent said the art eased their stress levels; labour during birth lasted 2.1 hours less in a room that incorporated screens designed by artists; visual art and live music during the post-operative period resulted in less analgesia per day and shorter stays in hospital. Bolstered by these results, the Chelsea and Westminster Health Charity has decided to push onwards and upwards in its support of the hospital by launching a new arts initiative in collaboration with the Serpentine
Gallery, Christie’s auction house and the Royal College of Music. Representatives from those organisations, together with important figures at the hospital and key players from the worlds of fine art and dance, have formed the Charity’s Arts Advisory Board. Its brief is to put into action the newly constructed Arts for Life project so I asked Katherine Mellor, Director of Hospital Arts at the Chelsea and Westminster, about the overall aims of the project. “We want to make sure every corner of the hospital has art that makes our patients’ experience better,” Katherine explains. “We are constantly seeking to keep the collection vibrant and valuable to patients, especially where the hospital has major new developments, such as the Chelsea Children’s Hospital. This development will redefine the way children are treated in acute care and we intend that our art and interactive design work will be integral to these young patients’ positive experience and recovery.” In the past, artworks have been commissioned or purchased by the hospital whilst others have been donated by artists themselves or collectors. Currently, the collection impresses with its quality and the many famous signatures identified with its artworks, all of which led to it attracting museum status in 2010. It embraces exciting work by Sir Peter Blake CBE and the monumental, dynamic, sculpture the Acrobat by Allen Jones RA as well as some of the late
“We want to make sure the hospital has art that makes our patients’ experience better”
Above / Sunrises (1992), Maggi Hambling
ART
Mary Fedden RA’s distinctive, engaging landscapes and still lifes. Future plans for the Arts for Life project seem to be equally ambitious yet all-embracing which is good news for our younger, talented but less famous artists. “Our strategy is to support emerging artists as well as high profile ones… we want excellent art that will enhance patient experience,” reveals Katherine. “Any artists we work with will be chosen for their ability to meet the needs of patients, whether that be optimistic, distracting imagery for a waiting room or calming, reflective work for an inpatient’s bedroom.” It looks as if the Arts for Life project could be a shot in the arm for painters, sculptors, printmakers and, perhaps, ceramicists who would be delighted to receive a letter offering an appointment to visit the hospital’s Arts Advisory Board. But what opportunities will be offered to performing artists? “Our performing arts programme will include workshops and it is designed to assist patients in their recovery,” responds Mark Norbury, CEO of the Chelsea and Westminster Health Charity. “At the same we are hoping to run some major fundraising events that will include concerts and auctions to generate over £500,000 for our Mother and Baby Centre and our Centre of Excellence in Burns Research.” The Mother and Baby Centre will provide research and treatment to prevent brain damage and long-term disability that affects up to two per cent of newborns, whilst the Burns Research facility is set to pioneer new standards of care for the 3,000 burns patients that the hospital treats annually. The fundraising events will offer thoroughly pleasurable reasons for us, the general public, to be involved with the hospital, safe in the knowledge that we are helping to provide income needed for its lifeenhancing projects. One such event will be December’s selling exhibition, In Memory of Mary, featuring works of art donated by Mary Fedden RA and 14 other artists (full details on the website). Other events are in the pipeline for next year; “Our Arts Advisory Board is planning a high profile auction in partnership with Christie’s in June 2013,” Mark tells me. “Art will be auctioned to raise funds for the Mother and Baby Centre and other campaigns and it will be available to view online and at Christie’s, King Street, in advance of the sale.” So just as our government is wielding the axe across the arts, here is a very different, optimistic message emerging from the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital and its Charity; the arts heal, and therefore Arts for Life offers a healthier future for everyone. Florence Nightingale would be delighted to know that not just her actions but her words are continuing to bring benefits to all of us. www.chelwestcharity.org.uk In Memory of Mary exhibition, 12-16 December From top / Still Life with Blue Poppies (1994), Mary Fedden The Acrobat (1993), Allen Jones Jos the Rhino (1996), Jonathan Delafield Cook
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www.bachet.fr
SOPHISTICATED STORAGE :
A Time & A Place Equipped with safes, humidors and MP3 stereos, Buben&Zörweg Objects of Time do more than monitor the minutes of the day, writes RICHARD BROWN
IF YOU’RE THE SORT OF person who appreciates the intricacies of mechanical timepieces, chances are you’ll value the exquisite craftsmanship that can go into housing them. Driven by the same admiration of exceptional engineering, Germany’s Buben&Zörweg have been exploring the limits of technology and workmanship since 1995. Founded by two childhood friends, Gröbminger Harald Buben and Christian Zörweg, within a few years the company had become the market leader in the design and manufacture of watch winders and mechanical table and wall clocks. Combining their two areas of expertise – watch winding and timekeeping – in 2006 Buben&Zörweg created their first Objects of Time;
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multi-functional models that in addition to winders and clocks boasted cigar humidors, liquor bars, safes and high-performance hi-fi systems. The company’s Grand Collector XL (below) features a high-security safe, 60 watch winders and a Buben&Zörweg signature clock. Elsewhere, its Orbit Tourbillon Connoisseur comes equipped with a humidor, bar and an optional HiFi system with Bluetooth and iPhone/iPod docking station. More than simply somewhere to store your treasured possessions, Buben&Zörweg’s elegant creations are sure to form the focal point of any interior space. www.buben-zorweg.com
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World of
WATCHES For treasured timepieces, horological heirlooms and modern masterpieces, watch this space...
Out of this World Unless you’ve been holed up in a cave for the last six weeks, you will have either seen, heard or read that Austrian daredevil Felix Baumgartner has become the first human to break the speed of sound under gravity alone. In doing so with the all-new El Primero Stratos Flyback Striking 10th chronograph on his wrist, Baumgartner made Zenith the first watch manufacturer to have a timepiece cross the sound barrier in a near space environment, a fitting claim for a watch already equipped with the world’s most accurate automatic chronograph movement. An exact replica of the watch worn by Baumgartner can be purchased from Zenith stockists for £6,100. www.zenith-watches.com
A Master Meets a Master Berlin’s Kraftwerk building formed the backdrop for the international unveiling of the Royal Oak Offshore Michael Schumacher Chronograph in October. The converted ex-power station welcomed journalists from around the world to its disused confines as Audemars Piguet presented its latest horological collaboration. Two blue and five red stars on the watch’s dial symbolise Schumacher’s record seven championship victories, while a black and white scale pattern pays homage to the checkered flags the legendary driver achieved. The 1,600 limited edition watches come in titanium (£31,550), 18-karat pink gold (£55,000) and platinum (£83,590).
Mechanical Masterpieces The company produces one of the most complex and revered grand complications in watchmaking so it’s no surprise that when Patek Philippe invited VIP customers and members of the press to view a unique collection of 18 Minute Repeaters, the invitations were snapped up immediately. The exhibition, hosted on 10 and 11 October in London’s Lancaster House, was attended by Patek President Thierry Stern and included the Patek Philippe Ladies First Minute Repeater (Ref. 7000R) and the Patek Philippe Minute Repeater Monopusher Chronograph. Only eclipsed by the grand/petite sonnerie in its complexity, the minute repeater will sound the time to the nearest minute upon demand. www.patek.com
www.audemarspiguet.com
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BMW Power Reserve, Ball
Opus 12, Harry Winston
Piece Unique for Harrods, Franck Muller
uantum recision
SalonQP has taken just four years to cement its place on the international watch event calendar. Taking up residence in the Saatchi Gallery for the second year running, 2012’s event proved that in a sea of economic instability, the watch industry remains as buoyant as ever, writes RICHARD BROWN
COLLECTION
Event photography: Ghislaine Salabert-Mougin
ASK THE CEO OF any high-end watch manufacturer how the ‘Great Recession’ has affected their business and they’ll tell you it hasn’t. They’ll talk k about new ventures in new (eastern) markets and lyricise about innovation and streamlining but words like cut-backs and redundancies aren’t ones you’ll hear in the watchmaking world. No; expansion, openings and launches are the words leaving the lips of the industry’s most senior servants. As belts have tightened across other areas of the global economy, there has been no let-up in the demand for Swiss-made timepieces. Despite hiccups in 2009, when Switzerland’s exports slowed for the first time in several record-breaking years, exports to markets across the world have been swelling ever since. Indeed, according to figures released from the Swiss Watch Industry Federation last year, of Patek Philippe, Rolex and Omega’s 2010-11 top 30 markets, only Taiwan reported a slump. And of the British watch-making industry? While it may have been slow to capitalise on the sector’s unprecedented growth, Britain now boasts a roster of burgeoning brands. In the year that a George Daniels auction achieved more than £8.2 million at Sotheby’s,, Bremont opened its first stand-alone store, Peter Speake-Marin rin launched no less than four new timepieces and Schofield sold out of both of its debut collections. So this brings us to this year’s SalonQP. As was the case in 2011, the Saatchi Gallery allery played host as a mix of media, industry moguls and horological fanatics descended on the UK’s only fine watch exhibition. Amongst a programme packed with discussions, workshops and interactive watchmaking activities, 54 brands were present, spanning from industry heavyweights like Vacheron Constantin and Girard-Perregaux to smaller independent makers including Urwerk and MB&F. What, then, constituted highlights? Worthy of note were those watches making their debuts at the show. When we interviewed TAG Heuer’s Honorary Chairman Jack Heuer back in the summer he spoke extensively about the company’s MikrotourbillonS. Enjoying its first UK outing, the timepiece impressed not only by virtue of being regulated by the world’s fastest tourbillion but also as a result of its sleek styling and split-dial design. The presence of the Meridian Watch Company heralded the entrance of a brand new marque to the watch-making arena, and (by manufacturing their creations on home soil) an English one at that. Indeed, Made-in-England became a recurring theme. In addition to the likes of Bremont, Robert Loomes and
Schofield, Speake-Marin was also promoting the best of British. Boasting a new movement, dial and case, yet retaining the sophistication that has come to signify Mark 2 proved particular popular. the brand, the company’s Spirit Ma In 2011, a customised Harley Davidson bejewelled with a Bell & Ross timepiece drew some of the biggest crowds. This time, it was an example of seafaring, rather than road-faring, engineering that attracted attention. For 130 years, Englishman Thomas Mercer was the undisputed leader in marine chronometers. Testament, again, to the current revival of British T horology, 2012 saw the welcome relaunch of this venerable brand. The Thomas Mercer Classis chronometer features an ebony body produced by the internationally renowned furniture manufacturer Linley and a façade emblazoned with the silhouettes of the most celebrated ships from the age of discovery. You’d certainly want one in your study. Fresh off the back of winning 00:24 Watch World magazine’s 2012 Readers’ Watch of the Year award with its Watch Engineer Hydrocarbon Ceramic XV, Ball presented its collaborative effort with BMW. Paying homage to the distinctive hallmarks of the German manufacturer’s automobiles, the American watchmaker has produced a range of lightweight, shock-absorbing watches. While they’re unlikely to find as much favour as the Hydrocarbon Ceramic XV, the range’s sharp looks and defined angles will appeal to those with a penchant for the sportier timepiece. Those who ventured up to the Saatchi Gallery’s second floor were treated to a unique collection of one-off timepieces presented by Harrods. Commissioning the likes of Audemars Piguet, Breguet, Franck Muller and more to produce stand-alone pieces, the department store found a novel way of celebrating the first anniversary of its Fine Watch Room. With a case, bezel, crown and bracelet adorned with 621 brilliant-cut diamonds, Audemars’ 7.45 carat Ladies Tuxedo Automatique gave bling-lovers something over which to salivate, while Roger Dubuis’ intricate Excalibur World Time was reinvented with the substitution of its ‘London’ time zone for a ‘Harrods’ time zone, a quirky twist on an already eccentric piece. In a gallery featuring watches as complicated as Harry Winston’s Opus 12 and as high-tech as the Slyde by HD3, it was fascinating to enter Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie’s enchanting Mastery of Time. Featuring mesmerising artefacts from as far back as the 15th century, the exhibition highlighted the sort of history and passion that has rendered the watch industry seemingly recession-proof.
Indeed, Made-in-England became a recurring theme
Above centre / High Jewellery Dentelle Diamond, Breguet
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Purple In a season where berry shades dominated fashion catwalks, purple reigns supreme. This A/W12, pick the gifts and accessories devoted to the primary colour of luxury and extravagance
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1 PAM00496 watch, £28,500, Panerai, www.panerai.com 2 Zip-top pouch, £120, Gucci, www.gucci.com 3 Leather hip flask, £90, Thomas Lyte www.thomaslyte.com 4 Calfskin pocket jotter, £70, Noble Macmillan, 9 Elvaston Mews 5 Small and medium Explorer holdall, £399 and £485 respectively Tusting, www.tusting.co.uk 6 Playing cards, £75, Asprey, www.asprey.com 7 Woven-wool bow tie, £95, Alexander Olch, www.olch.com 8 Sterling purple cufflinks, £56, Ettinger, www.ettinger.co.uk
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9 Collection Excellence Platine: Patrimony Contemporaine Automatic, £41,530, Vacheron Constantin, www.vacheron-constantin.com 10 Bale magenta and navy club stripe tie, £24.95, Charles Tyrwhitt, www.ctshirts.co.uk 11 London triple satchel bordeaux, £910, Dunhill, www.dunhill.com 12 Vintage PW1 pocket watch £1,800, Bell & Ross, www.bellross.com 13 Elephant daisy printed tie, £65, Thomas Pink, 162B Sloane Street 14 Sunburst lilac cufflinks, £175 Aspinal of London, www.aspinaloflondon.com 15 Travel backgammon set, £250, Aspinal of London, as before
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A WHOLE NEW WORLD:
The Depaysement Collection Cartier’s latest 148-creation collection has looked to the urban, luxuriant, solar and boreal landscapes of the universe as its main sources of inspiration, says OLIVIA SHARPE
URBAN LANDSCAPES THROUGHOUT the universe share a familiar terrain: one that is polished, smooth and, more often than not, modern. They can be both beautiful and functional but they always distinguish themselves from their counterpart, the rural, with their streamlined architecture, neutral colours and geometric shapes. Through these aspects, Cartier has drawn an accurate depiction of this landscape through one part of its latest collection. The pieces within the Urban collection exhibit radical design in every last curve. The graphic world has been conveyed through simple, clear and taut lines, perfectly formed shapes and the striking use of black and white to create optical effects. Pieces range from a curved white gold and onyx bracelet and square
emerald ring to a globe-shaped white gold and diamond necklace. In addition to Urban, the collection interprets four other landscapes from the frosty Arctic to the scorching desert, represented under the names Temporal, Luxuriant, Solar and Boreal. Cartier has often referenced the natural world through its jewellery designs; the long-established Panthère collection captures the essence of the feline in multiple and diverse forms. To represent the Boreal, an icy and barren land populated by wildlife, the panther rears its beautiful head once again in the form of a sapphire and platinum ring. www.cartier.com
Cartier necklace, white gold, one 8.35-carat briolette-cut diamond, rock crystal, brilliants, POA 020 3147 4850; www.cartier.com Photo by Iris Velghe © Cartier 2012
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Floris is delighted to announce the opening of a new Bespoke Perfumery Boutique at 147 Ebury Street, Belgravia, 282 years since Mr and Mrs Floris opened the doors to their first Perfumery at 89 Jermyn Street.
COLLECTION
Jewellery
BOX Jewels, gems, pearls and diamonds; the essential components of any lady’s jewellery collection
A Truly Royal Occasion With 16 years of experience and 7,000 private commissions of fine statement jewellery under its belt, Robinson Pelham was an unsurprising, and perfect, solution for Carole and Michael Middleton when they had to choose a brand to commission to create bespoke earrings for their daughter, Kate Middleton, which she would wear on her wedding day as she became the Duchess of Cambridge. Previously by appointment only, the fine jewellery brand has finally opened its first flagship store in Kensington, which aims to promote the brand’s ready-to-wear collection. As a result of this, the trio behind the brand – Vanessa Chilton, Zoe Benyon and Kate Pelham Burn – has also launched six new collections, all of which will be available alongside the couture commission service. New season ready-to-wear collections, ranging from £1,000 to £20,000, will include Elystan, in honour of their new home, along with Drusy, Orb, Champagne and Maratea. Robinson Pelham, Elystan Street www.robinsonpelham.com
CUTTING EDGE
Imaginary Nature
In celebration of its 175th anniversary, Tiffany & Co presents its Legacy collection, featuring the precious gem stones the jeweller initially introduced to the world. Executive vice president at Tiffany & Co. Jon King comments:
“The story of how these gemstones were discovered and introduced is truly inspiring. Our 175th anniversary is the perfect occasion to celebrate our heritage by showcasing these exquisite stones in one-of-a-kind jewels which so perfectly reflect Tiffany’s brilliant design legacy” Above / Anniversary Morganite necklace and matching earrings POA, Tiffany & Co. www.tiffany.co.uk
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Jewellery designers have often looked to nature to find their inspiration. At the recent Biennale des Antiquaires exhibition in Paris, Wallace Chan’s display of delicate butterfly jewellery pieces was the talk of the show. Although Van Cleef & Arpels’ Palais de la Chance collection mainly drew upon eternal symbols of luck and fortune, the French jewellery house managed to incorporate its signature organic designs with floral patterns and a Coccinelle (ladybird) Mysterieuse clip. Entitled Imaginary Nature, De Beers’ latest seven-piece all-white diamond and platinum jewels aim to capture that moment of metamorphosis in nature; for example, a bird about to draw its wings or a flower on the brink of bloom. www.debeers.com
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As time turns its hands to darkness with the changing of the clocks, sparkle this winter in ice-white diamonds, glacial crystals and translucent sapphires
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1 Cabochon Falls necklace, POA, Harry Winston Water Collection, www.harrywinston.com 2 Ladies vintage watch in 18-karat white gold case with pavé diamond bezel and silver coloured dial, £5,250, Asprey, www.asprey.com 3 Cape Gooseberry pendant, POA, Mikimoto Regalia, www.mikimoto.co.uk 4 La Mini D de Dior 19mm watch in white gold with falcon eye dial and diamonds, £7,800, Dior, www.dior.com 5 Cultured South Sea pearl opera length necklace with diamond petal clasp in platinum, POA, Tiffany & Co., www.tiffany.co.uk 6 Art Deco platinum, sapphire and diamond ring, £6,450, Heirlooms, www.NET-A-PORTER.com 7 Cosmos watch in white gold and diamonds with a black satin strap, POA, Chanel, www.chanel.com 8 Main de Fatma earrings, POA, Van Cleef & Arpels, www.vancleefarpels.com
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9 Fuchsia bracelet, POA, Mikimoto Regalia, www.mikimoto.co.uk 10 Dolphin ring in 18-karat white gold, POA, Boodles Wonderland Collection, www.boodles.com 11 Magnolia necklace, POA, Mikimoto Regalia, as before 12 1920s platinum, diamond and sapphire earrings, £5,300, Heirlooms, www.NET-A-PORTER.com 13 W900 Belisama diamond automatic watch, £1,150, Christopher Ward, www.christopherward.co.uk 14 Turquoise Splash ring, POA, Harry Winston Water Collection, as before 15 Tonda crystal-embellished leather clutch, £320, Diane Von Furstenberg, www.dvf.com 16 Rhodium-plated cubic zirconia earrings, £155, Kenneth Jay Lane www.NET-A-PORTER.com 17 Crystal butterfly headband, £295, Miu Miu, www.miumiu.com THE KENSINGTON & CHELSEA MAGAZINE
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TELL ME A STORY:
Fashion Fairytales Step into a surreal yet beautiful world of fantasy and fashion at the Tim Walker: Story Teller exhibition at Somerset House, a photography exhibition like no other, says MATILDA LONG
THERE ARE MANY ATTRIBUTES that make a Tim Walker photograph recognisable: eccentric sets that look like they’ve tumbled straight out of a child’s imagination; bright dashes of colour which grab attention and demand a second look; and a playful commitment to ensuring that every photograph has an element of surprise. This spirit and style is wonderfully encapsulated by Somerset House’s display, sponsored by Mulberry, which immerses each visitor in Tim Walker’s ‘fairytale-on-acid’ imagination. The exhibition comprises Walker’s most recent work, which has appeared in some of fashion’s most prestigious titles, including Vogue, Vanity Fair, W and The New Yorker. In one memorable image,
the model Karlie Kloss, bedecked in Gaultier Paris and sporting an alarmingly sinister expression, stands over the broken body of Humpty Dumpty. In another, a dilapidated stately home infused with saccharine-sweet ice cream colours provides the background for Olga Shearer as she sits atop a powder blue horse. The exhibition also displays some of the props used in Walker’s shoots. A giant china doll blinks eerily at passing visitors next to a wasp playing the cello. Stepping out of this exhibition feels like waking from a dream. Exhibition runs until 27 January 2013 Somerset House, Strand, WC2R 1LA; www.somersethouse.org.uk
Olga Shearer on blue horse Sennowe Park, Norfolk, 2007 © Tim Walker
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Mirror,
Mirror ON THE WALL...
ANNABEL HARRISON can’t choose a favourite from Harrods’ unique collection of designer gowns; inspired by fairytale princesses, the renowned Brompton Road window displays are showcasing a festive collaboration with Disney and ten top fashion designers
Above / Apple ring from the Haute Joaillerie Disney Princess Collection by Chopard inspired by Snow White, paved with rubies, brown diamonds, emerald and tsavorites, set in rose gold. POA. Chopard Boutique, Ground Floor, Harrods
FASHION
...Who’s the Fairest OF THEM ALL?
All Fashion Photography: Jason Ell for the Harrods Magazine (November issue) THE KENSINGTON & CHELSEA MAGAZINE
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Cinderella by Versace The attire of the most beloved of Disney princesses has been given a contemporary twist; her dress comprises golden layers, a tiara, a bold necklace and, of course, glass slippers emblazoned with the iconic Versace medusa motif
THERE SURELY CAN’T BE a single reader who didn’t once want to be just like the princesses she saw on the film and television screens; Snow White and the Seven Dwarves was released in 1937, making readers born that year a spritely 75 this year, and since then, we have all grown up with Belle, Ariel, Aurora and Cinderella Cinderella. There is something magical about twirling around, as a little girl, in a sparkly party dress and this is a feeling that never really leaves us; who can fail to feel like royalty in a floor-length evening gown, beautifully cut and embellished, from the likes of Jenny Packham, Roberto Cavalli and Marchesa? As much as Christmas is associated with beautifully decorated trees, lights, the Holidays Are Coming music and mince pies, Londoners look forward each year to the windows at Harrods,
Ariel from The Little Mermaid by Marchesa Marchesa has channelled Ariel’s adventurous under-the-sea spirit into a chic, elegant and (fittingly) deep sea blue silk evening gown, comprising beautifully crafted drapes of fabric and a sweeping fish-tail train
always a visual treat and particularly exquisite over the festive season. Ten international designers each took on the challenge of creating their own unique interpretation of the ten original Disney Princess dresses and the results are on display in specially-created, themed backdrops. Of course, no princess’ ensemble is complete without her jewels so Chopard has stepped up to the plate; Co-President and Artistic Director Caroline Scheufele has interpreted the key characteristics of the princesses and created an Haute Joaillerie Disney Princess Collection. Each piece is unique and available in Harrods and Caroline has also collaborated with shoe designer Giuseppe Zanotti to create one pair of unique jewellery shoes in line with the theme, to be auctioned for charity. Our favourite piece is the rose and white gold Apple ring for Snow White, set with round-cut rubies and a delicate leaf paved with round emeralds and tsavorites tethered on a stem of rare and round brown diamonds. Visit to enjoy these one-of-a-kind gowns in their make-believe setting; even as grown-ups we yearn for a little fairytale escapism in our lives and this collection is truly magical. Ladies, you shall go to the ball.
FASHION
Necklace inspired by Tiana made of briolette-cut paraibas tourmalines, tsavorites, emeralds and pearls. POA Haute Joaillerie Disney Princess Collection Chopard Boutique, Ground Floor, Harrods
Rapunzel from Tangled by Jenny Packham This magical, pale grey dress is adorned with such incredible beading that it should never be locked away. Catherine would approve
Aurora from Sleeping Beauty by Elie Saab Aurora embodies the natural grace and innocence of a young lady and she will love this pale pink gown’s exquisite embellishments and scattered beading
Earrings inspired by Cinderella, made from aquamarines and pearls, POA Haute Joaillerie Disney Princess Collection Chopard Boutique, Ground Floor, Harrods
DISNEY PRINCESS PARLOUR A must-do activity over the Christmas period is taking your daughters, grand-daughters or god-daughters to Harrods’ 7,000 square-foot pop-up Disney boutique. We guarantee you’ll be as enthralled as they are. In the Disney Princess Parlour, she can pretend she’s a little princess in the dress-up area where she can also have her photograph taken against an enchanting Disney backdrop (by appointment only, £19.95) and see if the slipper fits in the Cinderella Slipper Salon, offering limited-edition, glitter-embellished glass slippers (from £24.95 to £34.95). With a special interactive area for all the family, customers will also be invited to enjoy Disney-themed activities such as bewitching storytelling sessions.
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The Alchemy of Design Zaeem Jamal has joined luxury boutiques Austique and The Shop at Bluebird (just opposite on the King’s Road), bringing with him an impressive selection of glamorous British evening wear for Chelsea residents. Zaeem comments: “We want to inspire women to be creative and enlightened with their style, looking at both external glamour and internal beauty. We hope to awaken a relationship between the wearer and her chosen piece as a reflection of an aspect of her core being, stimulating the feeling of being alive, fabulous and radiant in the deeper sense of the word.” A selection of the finest silks, semi-precious gemstones, expertly crafted detailing and hand embroidery are combined in each of the creations, making them truly one-of-a-kind. The latest Egyptian Collection has of course been inspired by ancient Egypt, with fluid silk gowns, gilded necklines and sequins holding hidden symbols. Having recently been named Britain’s rising red carpet star designer, you’ll be sure to find the perfect Christmas party, or any party, dress when you visit. Zaeem Jamal, 309 King’s Road, SW3 5EP 020 7100 2072; www.zaeemjamal.com
Knit Together It seems that hardly a month goes by that we don’t hear about another designer collaboration. Rather than battling it out to see who reigns supreme in the fashion industry, leading designers, more than ever it seems, are putting their creative powers together to produce innovative new collections, evidently with the philosophy that two heads are better than one. The latest collaboration to have been met with admiration by both the fashion world and knitwear fans is between British cashmere brand Brora and fashion designer Michael Van der Ham. The 12-piece capsule collection, which celebrates the best of British craftsmanship, includes cropped cardigans, sweater dresses, accessories and fitted knits. Brora 344 King’s Road, SW3 5UR 020 7352 3697; www.brora.co.uk
Charity Begins at Home With its location in the heart of one of the most fashionable areas in London, the Red Cross Shop on the King’s Road was destined to be a hidden treasure trove of designer gems, kindly donated from the fashionable residents dwelling nearby. Therefore, expect bargain hunters to be flocking from far and wide to attend the Designer Evening taking place at the end of month. Anya Hindmarch, Jimmy Choo and Mulberry must-haves will be making an appearance, along with many others, in the form of vintage shoes, bags and clothing so go early. Thursday 29 November, 4-8pm British Red Cross Shop, 69-71 Old Church Street, SW3 5BS 020 7376 7300; www.redcross.org.uk
FASHION
Beauty Sleep Continue to look stylish and sexy in the comfort of your bedroom this winter with the newest, and prettiest, A/W12 lingerie pieces
Clara Whispering silk robe £225, Stella McCartney www.stellamccartney.co.uk
Dark Horse This season, the seductively stylish fashion house Hervé Léger looked to the darker side of equestrian wear. Keeping in mind the core Léger shopper (the professional and modern woman who is unafraid of her sexuality), the brand incorporated traditional riding elements but turned the theme on its head; at this year’s A/W12 show models resembled horses rather than riders, bucking tradition in equestrian-inspired buckle leather harnesses, corset belts and strapped-in vests. With its careful study of seduction and restraint, the label successfully steered away from anything too provocative as delicate sequins, mixed with centurion pleats, fused with chains and gold hardware. Structured clutches and corset boots finished the looks.
Ivory, crystal and silk slip £535, Jenny Packham at www.NET-A-PORTER.com
Hervé Léger, 29 Lowndes Street, SW1X 9HX; 020 7201 2590; store@herveleger.co.uk
Her S T Y L E
Jean Paul Gaultier La Perla Collection Createur night dress £720, La Perla, www.laperla.com
By OLIVIA SHARPE
Pop Princess Kylie Minogue has transcended each decade of her reign by recreating herself not simply through her music but through her fashion choices, making her one of the icons of the 21st century. Now, Minogue is releasing a book commemorating 25 years of fashion throughout her career, as part of celebrations for having reached a quarter century in the music industry. Simple titled Kylie/Fashion and curated by William Baker, the tome charts the singer’s most memorable stage ensembles and music video outfits (including the infamous white catsuit), as well as cataloguing the world-famous designers who have worked with her such as Jean-Paul Gaultier, John Galliano and Stella McCartney. The book is set for release on 19 November.
Balcony bra, £115, skirted thong, £65, suspenders, £90 All from the Luna Collection by Myla, www.myla.com
Luna Eye Mask, £28 www.aytengasson.com
Kylie/Fashion (Thames & Hudson), £28 www.thamesandhudson.com
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Belted trench coat, £1,344, Viktor and Rolf www.viktor-rolf.com, Georgette satin ruffle neck top, £630 Gucci, www.gucci.com, Cadeaux navy necklace, £695 Jenny Packham, www.jennypackham.com, Ines hematite hairband, £290, Louis Mariette, 1A Bannon Court 54-58 Michael Road, SW6 2EF, www.louismariette.com
Only If For
A NIGHT As darker, and more decadent, nights draw in, ensure you dress the part. In embracing the A/W12 baroque trend, rich materials, jewel tones, delicate lace and all manner of opulent embellishments take centre stage Photographer & Art Director:
Set Design:
Stylist:
Alice Luker
Natasha Dean
Lauren Miller
Leather jacket, £3,420, Hervé Léger 29 Lowndes Street, SW1X 9HX 020 7201 2590, Addie jacquard skirt, £180 Diane Von Furstenberg, www.dvf.com Drakaina necklace, £305, Bea Valdes at Couture Lab, Acacia belt II noir, £485 Jenny Packham, as before, Dress, £2,600 House of Worth, www.worthparis.com
Mercy corset, £345, Agent Provocateur, 305 Westbourne Grove W11 2QA, Ice cubes stud necklace, £160, Marc Jacobs www.my-wardrobe.com, Bertilia knitted rex rabbit and lurex stole with fringes, £1,565, Hockley, www.hockleylondon.com
Dress, POA, Tom Ford, www.tomford.com Baroque freshwater pearl, white quartz and silver earrings, available in silver plated metal, £350, or sterling silver, £430, Jerboa by Victoria Barker, www.jerboajewellery.com Cadeaux necklace, £695, Jenny Packham, as before, Leather skinny belt with studs, £225 Gucci, www.gucci.com
Long blue and pink sequin gown with ruffles £2,190, Atis Artemjevs, 143 Fulham Road SW3 6SD, 020 7589 5463, Bejewelled belt £929, DSquared, www.dsquared2.com Black suede boots with yellow Swarovski crystal macro lace, £1,530, Sergio Rossi www.sergiorossi.com, Pearl choker, £405 Maison Martin Margiela, as before Baroque freshwater pearl and silver necklace, available in silver plated metal, £800, or sterling silver, £1,105, Jerboa by Victoria Barker, www.jerboajewellery.com Make-Up: Anna Priadka using Dior Christmas Look Hair: Hiro @ Radio Salon using Bumble & Bumble Models: Sasha @ Select and Jaz @ Next Location: With thanks to Blakes Hotel, 33 Roland Gardens, SW7 3PF, 020 7370 6701; www.blakeshotels.com
FASHION
Technology + Tailoring The first Burberry menswear store in the UK has finally arrived in London and the Royal Borough’s very own Brompton Road is the chosen location for this exciting venture. At a colossal 11,300 square feet, the store boasts the UK’s largest Burberry Tailoring space, with an exceptional selection of suits that can be tailored to the client’s exact specification. Each customer can choose from a three silhouettes: slim, modern or classic, all available in a choice of more than 40 luxury fabrics, from sophisticated pinstripes to classic tweeds. Following the example of the Regent Street flagship, this store is equipped with cutting edge technology, designed to enhance and improve your experience. Audio-visual digital content pervades the building, with more than 50 speakers and 100 screens on hand to immerse each visitor in the sophisticated world of Burberry. Like the flagship, visiting this store offers an electrifying experience; much more than mere shopping. Burberry London Menswear, 16-18 Brompton Road SW1X 7QN; 020 3043 4530
His S T Y L E By MATILDA LONG
Well-Heeled 155 Brompton Road is the new home of Crockett & Jones, the renowned specialists in Goodyear-welted footwear. The shop offers a semi-bespoke ordering service, where customers can specify certain elements of each shoe, as well as pristine quality ready-to-wear pieces from the hand-grade and main collections. The extensive collections, which include formal shoes, driving shoes, slippers and boots, showcase items which would all sit perfectly within the wardrobe of any well-heeled modern gentleman. Crockett & Jones, 155 Brompton Road, SW3 1QP 020 7581 2696 www.crockettandjones.com
Sartorial Inspiration One of fashion’s most prolific photography blogs, Scott Schuman’s The Sartorialist is renowned for spotting and documenting the unique sartorial style of people all over the world. The photographs he takes provide inspiration to thousands about how to dress in an elegant, quirky and modern style. Following the success of the first volume of his acclaimed photographs, Schuman has released a second book of style inspiration, titled The Sartorialist: Closer. Available in a larger limited edition, hardback format, this inspiring compilation would be an ideal gift for any keen or aspiring fashionista, male or female. The Sartorialist: Closer, £20. Limited edition, £150, Penguin
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M O N LLLAAALLLAAAGGGEEE BBBEEEAAAUUUM MO ON NTTT MM AYFAIR M AYFAIR AYFAIR 6/7 Avery Row 6/7 6/7Avery AveryRow Row W1K 4AL W1K W1K4AL 4AL 020 7495 7799 020 0207495 74957799 7799 boutique@lalagebeaumont.com boutique@lalagebeaumont.com boutique@lalagebeaumont.com
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Inside
INTERIORS Home is where the heart is, so adorn it with the finest fabrics, furnishings, accessories and art
Fashion Meets Fabric Legendary haute couture designer Jean Paul Gaultier has added another string to his bow, creating a collection of fabrics and soft furnishings in conjunction with Parisian design house Lelièvre. The style of the collection is clearly stamped with the signature Gaultier bold colours and rich fabrics, combined with patterns such as tartan and intricate bird prints. Mischievous fishnet material and Gaultier’s unmistakable tattoo print patterns adorn cushions, making them an ideal gift for anyone whose home is calling out for a rock ‘n’ roll edge this Christmas.
Christmas Chic It is often the little touches that can really bring the festive season to life, as shown by Jan Constantine’s collection of delightful, playful Christmas cushions. Inspired by Alpine chalets, skiing holidays and Fair Isle woollies, the cushions are a joyfully comforting addition to any child’s bedroom. The collection has a traditional feel, with Christmas motifs hand-embroidered onto the finest felt wool. Mix and match a selection of the different and versatile designs for the perfect cosy Christmas. www.janconstantine.com
Lelièvre, Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour, SW10 0XE www.lelievre.eu
Festive Finish
A Touch of Glamour
For anyone who is hosting friends and family this Christmas, a beautifully decorated home can be just as essential as the perfect roast potatoes. For those all-important finishing touches, Gisela Graham is a fantastic choice. The charming Christmas range includes fabric advent calendars, classic style tree decorations and traditional knitted Christmas stockings. The snow log and snowflake pillar candles are both wintery and attractive: the perfect finishing flourish for a festive dining table.
Elystan Street in the heart of Chelsea is the new setting for Hill House Interiors’ London showroom. As well as providing a top quality interior design consultancy service, Hill House will use this store to launch its furniture and upholstery collection, which reflects the unashamedly glamorous and luxurious style for which the company is famed. One standout piece from the collection is the Pimlico sofa: a fresh take on a classic design, the shape is traditional and elegant, but the unique scroll top motif brings a stylish and modern twist. The showroom will also stock the new Pinto Paris line of rock crystal lamps, designed by Alberto Pinto. With a spectacular existing portfolio and now a beautiful new range of its own, Hill House is fast becoming the go-to company for magnificent interiors.
www.giselagraham.co.uk
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Hill House Interiors, 11 Elystan Street, SW3 3NT www.hillhouseinteriors.com
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Local Spotlight: JOSEPHINE RYAN ANTIQUES There’s a new girl on the block, on Langton Street to be precise, and she’s arrived just in time for Christmas with an Aladdin’s cave of artefacts and antiques FOR ANYONE WISHING they could find something that little bit different for seasonal gifts or to furnish their own town or country home in time for Christmas visitors, Josephine Ryan could be the fairy Godmother they’ve always wanted. She is acknowledged for her artistic eye, interior design skills and romance with retro which she has developed over many years through dealing in antiques, paintings and collectables; opening a shop to spread her passion for such things was an easy decision. Although many would find opening a shop in the current economic climate too daunting to consider, Josphine is rather bolder than most and her confidence about the new shop’s prospects is built on her past success with numerous clients. Driven by a personal mantra – “No project is too small” – she has relished sourcing for clients the perfect style of old prints or a single sculpture, a candelabra, a painting or a table as required. At the other end of the spectrum, Josephine has also undertaken larger commissions for entire room or house refurbishments and in her new Chelsea location, she plans to offer a similarly comprehensive customer service. Among her current stock of artworks is a collection of 19th century prints featuring English
royalty, all crisply mounted and framed. Their quality and subject matter ensures that these will be strong conversation pieces when hung in a home, particularly as this year has made us especially conscious of our royal heritage. For more modern tastes, the shop is offering a strikingly simple still life painting by French artist, François Guy, his expressive brush strokes clearly embodied in the impasto oil paint. Designing interiors or finding distinctive pieces to add zest to a room is an acquired art that Josephine doesn’t just delight in carrying out; she loves to write about it too. In her book, Essentially French, a wave of her magic wand takes us into the homes of 14 antique dealers to reveal their different, quintessentially French furnishing styles. Copies signed by Josphine herself are available in the shop, ideal for anyone looking for interiors inspiration or for something that little bit different to present on Christmas Day. Josephine Ryan Antiques 17 Langton Street, Chelsea, SW10 OJL www.josephineryanantiques.co.uk Open House Evening, 29 November, 6-9pm
INTERIORS
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Another
PLANET GEMMA TAYLOR shows us how to stun friends and family with a different kind of white Christmas
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Main image: Queen’s Gate SW7, Winner of The Daily Telegraph British Homes Award 2011 – Kensington Bachelor Pad 1 Asprey and Philip Treacy Christmas Cracker, £1,500, www.asprey.com 2 Owl Side Table, £89, I Love Retro, www.iloveretro.co.uk 3 Animal Antler Mugs: Deer, Moose and Ram, £25 each, available from the V&A Shop, www.vandashop.com or by calling 020 7942 2696 4 Isle Candle Holder in Brass, £90, George Jensen, www.harrods.com
INTERIORS
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5 Baroque Wall Shelf, £79, I Love Retro, www.iloveretro.co.uk 6 Rosenthal Fast Bauble, POA, Harrods, www.harrods.com 7 Lucia Christmas Tree, £151 Phillipi, www.occa-home.co.uk 8 Twisted Rope Leather Cushion Set of 2, £380, Cush Cush, www.giftlibrary.co.uk 9 Lime Spritz Bowl Large, £690 Charlotte Sale, www.charlottesaleglass.com
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Fire Side
Cosy up with all the trimmings of a classic Christmas home. MATILDA LONG sources the perfect interior accessories
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Main image: The Drawing Room of The Egerton House Hotel, 17-19 Egerton Terrace, Knightsbridge, London, SW3 2BX 1 Ice Skating Advent Calendar, £9.50, Selfridges & Co, www.selfridges.com 2 Tear Drop Boat Bauble, £29.95, Liberty London, www.liberty.co.uk 3 Large Oval Carved Gold Mirror, £295 Alexander and Pearl, www.alexanderandpearl.co.uk 4 Gingerbread Man Bauble, £3.95, Liberty London, as before
INTERIORS
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5 For Queen & Country Bauble, £7.95, Harrods, www.harrods.com 6 Oro Wreath, £200, John Carter London, www.johncarterflowers.com 7 Impuls Buckingham Palace Bauble, £19.95, Liberty London, www.liberty.co.uk 8 7ft Woodland Pine Christmas Tree, £265, NOMA, www.selfridges.com 9 Savoy Champagne Flute, £30 (For 2 glasses), LSA International, www.lsa-international.com THE KENSINGTON & CHELSEA MAGAZINE
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New Zinc showroom now open 1 Chelsea Wharf, 15 Lots Road, London SW10 0QJ
0679_Zinc Kensington & Chelsea Ad_Apr12_AW.indd 1
09/03/2012 16:51
Health &
B EAUTY “You can be gorgeous at 30, charming at 40 and irresistible for the rest of your life” – Coco Chanel
THE TREND: Snow White
Stocking Fillers
At this year’s A/W12 shows, designers and their make-up artists embraced the season’s natural elements as models sported windswept hair, flushed cheeks and pale skin. At Michael Kors, Mulberry and Temperley London, lightly blushed faces gave the impression that models had just come in from the cold air. At Dolce & Gabbana, pink cheeks were paired with lightly-defined eyes, dewy skin and natural-looking lips. This was mirrored at Giambattista Valli where shimmery white shadow was applied to the inner and outer corners of the eye to give an ethereally pretty look. At Marni, swathes of white covered models’ eyelids and was also used to highlight cheekbones for added contouring. To enhance the dramatic effect, smudges of red-brown shadow was applied to the bottom lids and was contrasted with natural-looking skin and lips. Eyeshadow Duo in Pandora, £24, NARS www.narscosmetics.co.uk
Our selection of the best beauty gifts this Christmas
Long-Wear Eye Pencils £17.50 each, Bobbi Brown www.bobbibrowncosmetics.com
All-in-One Night Palette, £60 Georgio Armani Cosmetics www.armanibeauty.com
MAC Glamour Daze Lipstick in Beauty £15.50 www.maccosmetics.co.uk Marni A/W12 show
Vanity Case, £195 Laura Mercier, available at www.harrods.com
ADDRESS BOOK: Massage Therapist Sarah Dewey
L’Argent Celeste Starry Loose Powder £43.50, Givenchy www.givenchyparfums.com
Private Blend 16 Piece Nail Lacquer gift box, £400, Tom Ford Beauty www.tomford.com
If you don’t have Sarah Dewey’s number on speed dial, you should. Rather than being based in a spa, Sarah only does home visits, taking all the travel hassle out of a massage (which proves to be an especially good way to start one). She arrives on my doorstep promptly and the massage then takes place in the comfort of my own home; the set up is quick and fuss-free. Each massage is entirely bespoke, depending on the individual needs of each client, so my neck and shoulders are given particular attention and knots are kneaded out in a thorough but relaxing hour-long full-body massage. Given that about 90 per cent of Sarah’s clients are existing and repeat customers, it’s probably best to get in touch sooner rather than later to become one of the final ten per cent. Book an appointment (£110/hour) by emailing sarah@sarahdewey.com or calling 07976 830073
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HEALTH & BEAUTY
TOP
to TOE
With December comes Christmas party season, along with later nights and family-time overload, so here are two of the best ways to maintain a sleek, fresh-faced exterior, says MATILDA LONG
SLEEK EASY: RICHARD WARD For those who, like me, suffer from difficult-to-manage long, curly hair, looking polished at numerous Christmas parties can be an onerous task. Therefore a smoothing hair treatment seemed like an excellent option. My experience at Richard Ward began on a high note, by means of a consultation with the brilliant technical director Mario. My vague but earnest request, that I wanted hair that was ‘less dry and less curly but not too less curly’, was interpreted brilliantly and between us we decided on a Memory Forme express treatment, followed by a Long Hair Clinic cut. The Memory Forme treatment itself began with a shampoo and then the application of the product, after which my hair was straightened to sleek and shiny perfection. After the first wash, my hair was significantly smoother and less frizzy. Next, Mario began battle with my spilt ends and succeeded in making my hair look healthy and nourished, without losing the (beloved) long length. Overall, my hair was left looking party-ready and my experience at Richard Ward was top quality. Memory Forme Express, from £175 / Long Hair Clinic, £260 Richard Ward Salon, 82 Duke of York Square, SW3 4LY 020 7730 1222; www.richardward.com
SKIN DEEP: VAGHEGGI BOUTIQUE CLINIC Vagheggi, conveniently located on the King’s Road, prides itself on being Chelsea’s first luxury boutique clinic, providing medical and beauty treatments, such as non-surgical skin rejuvenation treatments, including botox, fillers and facials, as well as their own range of luxury skincare products. As the onset of winter, with its chilly mornings, blustering winds and central heating, had already started to take its toll on my dryness-prone skin, I opted for the Bio Rhythm Rehydra facial. The stylish décor gave a great first impression, which was successfully built upon throughout my visit. The staff members were welcoming and friendly and my treatment was thoroughly relaxing and well-executed. My face and neck were cleansed before the application of a clay mask, which left my skin feeling refreshed, hydrated and glowing. This facial is the perfect remedy for skin that suffers during winter. Bio Rhythm Rehydra Facial, from £60 Vagheggi Boutique Clinic, 205 Kings Road, SW3 5ED 020 7352 1113; www.vagheggi.co.uk
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Vagheggi Estd. 1975 Anti-wrinkle injections Luxury skincare Minor cosmetic treatments
3 Areas Botox or
Dermal Filler 1ml Includes
£ 20 Gift Vou
cher
Usual price £465, now £225
Call 0207 352 1113 Offer ends December 29, 2012 Redeemable to January 29, 2013
A complimentary glass of bubbly awaits you at Chelsea’s first Luxury Boutique Clinic Vagheggi Chelsea, 205 Kings Rd, Chelsea, London, SW3 5ED I 020 7352 1113 Vagheggi Harley St, 1 Harley St, London, W1G 9QD Vagheggi Luxury Beauty
www.vagheggi.co.uk
Kids
KING DOM Delight your little darlings on Christmas morning with this delectable selection of presents
Gifts for the Little Princess Shower her with the prettiest clothes, accessories and toys this Christmas (and not just in pink)
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1 & 2 Floral printed trousers, £59, scarf, £59, both Oscar de la Renta Childrenswear, www.oscardelarenta.com 3 Image courtesy of Gucci Childrenswear 4 Bone china tea cup set, £19.95, Hello Kitty, www.wildandwolf.com 5 Moulin Roty Lola baby slippers, £15, www.gift-library.com 6 Ostrich purse, £48, Liv www.alexandalexa.com 7 Cream pom-pom hat, £97, Fendi, www.alexandalexa.com 8 Xorry snow fox, £85, www.steiff.com 9 Cream beaded headband, £125 Dolce & Gabbana, www.alexandalexa.com 10 Fairy Cottage, £235, Win Green, www.gift-library.com
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Gifts for Young Master Keep him occupied for the rest of winter with the latest in gadgets, gizmos and outdoors gear
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1 Hornby British Pullman Train set, £200, www.harrods.com 2 Nintendo Wii U 32GB Premium black console, POA, available at Harrods from 30 November as before 3 Baby boots in military green micro GG printed shearling (sizes 16-19), £160, www.gucci.com 4 Grey Fair Isle knit scarf, £29, Pepe Jeans www.alexandalexa.com 5 Green v-neck jumper, £105, Oscar de la Renta Childrenswear, www.oscardelarenta.com 6 Navy-branded socks, £4, Gant www.alexandalexa.com 7 Enchanted Forest graphite wolf, £170, Steiff, www.steiff.com 8 Saab Roadster, £315, Playsam, www.cuckooland.com 9 Military green washed velvet corduroy cargo pants, £145, Gucci, www.gucci.com 10 Grey Fair Isle Cardigan, £70, Tommy Hilfiger, www.alexandalexa.com THE KENSINGTON & CHELSEA MAGAZINE
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Kids
KING DOM Entertain your children over the festive period with cultural and Christmas-themed outings
Tom’s Midnight Garden
From Boys to Men
When Tom’s younger brother contracts measles, he must endure a fate worse than death for all young boys. He is sent away to his aunt and uncle’s where there is no garden. To make matters worse, the only people Tom has for company are his two relatives and the reclusive landlady, Mrs. Bartholomew, who resides upstairs. What Tom doesn’t know, however, is that his trip will involve the adventure of his life. One night when he hears the grandfather clock strike 13, he goes down to investigate and is transported to a secret garden from the past where he meets Hattie and the two of them share fantastic adventures together in a magical wonderland. The classic children’s story by Philippa Pearce will be arriving at the Bloomsbury Theatre this Christmas in a wonderful new production by David Wood.
For his first ever Boys collection, artistic director Mario Chiarenza hopes to emulate his counterpart menswear range by stepping away from traditional children’s clothing and creating a line which embodies Italian style while remaining comfortable at all times. No longer is luxury an age-defining matter as young boys emulate their fathers in tuxedo jackets, waistcoats and button-up shirts. Whether for your family greeting card, the annual Christmas party or lunch on Christmas Day, Billionaire Couture Boys Collection offers the perfect ensemble for your young man this holiday season.
12 December – 19 January Tom’s Midnight Garden, Bloomsbury Theatre 15 Gordon Street, WC1H 0AH 020 7388 8822; www.thebloomsbury.com
Christmas Wonderland The Courtyard of the Bluebird Restaurant on Chelsea’s King’s Road is being transformed into a magical Christmas wonderland in time for the much-anticipated arrival of Santa Claus. Hot dogs and toffee apples will be served to keep children’s hunger at bay before they are given the chance to meet the man of the moment who will be bringing with him a sackful of gifts. To keep warm outside, parents can enjoy spiced mulled wine and food from the Christmas stalls surrounding Santa’s Grotto. There will even be a hog roast on standby. From Tuesday 6 December, Santa is expected at the Grotto from 3pm until 6pm (weekdays) and from 1pm until 5pm (weekends) in the Courtyard
Billionaire Italian Couture 9 Sloane Street, SW1X 9LE 020 7245 0096 www.billionairecouture.com
Rising Talent In a bid to promote young talent, The Telegraph has once again teamed up with the Saatchi Gallery for the annual Saatchi Gallery/Sunday Telegraph Art Prize for Schools. Sponsored by Deutsche Bank, the prize is open to primary, secondary and sixth form schools from around the world who are invited to submit art work from students up to and including the age of 18. The scheme aims to encourage artists of the future as well as promote the importance of art in contemporary culture. Deadline for submissions is 6pm on 10 December and all entries should be submitted online. www.saatchi-gallery.co.uk
www.bluebird-restaurant.co.uk
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It’s
ELECTRIC... RRP:
£1,499
For stockist and further details: www.ebco-ebikes.co.uk t: 01926 437700
Children’s Festive Activities Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 December 12pm, 2pm & 4pm santa’s showtime
£2 for children and concessions, £4 for adults. Children under 2 go free. visit canarywharf.com to book. tickets are subject to availability.
Every weekend from Saturday 1 to Sunday 23 December plus Monday 24 December 11am - 5pm free art & Craft Workshops free festive face Painting free Magical treasure trail visit santa’s Grotto* plus Monday 17 to Monday 24 December 11am - 5pm visit santa’s Grotto* *visits to santa’s Grotto cost £2. see below for supported charities.
Canary Wharf
bars & restaurants • fashion & style • arts & events canarywharf.com
3 hours
free parking
at Weekends and bank holidays When you sPend £10 at Canary Wharf terMs and Conditions aPPly.
santa’s showtime proceeds will be donated to richard house Children’s hospice.
santa’s Grotto proceeds will be donated to variety, the Children’s Charity.
SHOPPING
CELEBRATE
THE FESTIVE SEASON AT CANARY WHARF WITH A FANTASTIC LINE-UP OF WINTERY EVENTS, CANARY WHARF’S CHRISTMAS OFFERING IS SECOND TO NONE
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his winter, Canary Wharf will host not only a magical Grotto, stunning ice rink and festive fashion show, but also a range of activities ranging from ice sculpting and face painting to cupcake making and glass decorating. Over 240 shops, bars and restaurants complete the picture to make Canary Wharf the perfect Christmas destination for all the family.
STEP INTO SANTA’S GROTTO Launching 1 December, Santa’s Grotto in Canary Wharf’s Jubilee Place returns with a whimsical and magical theme. Open every weekend in December as well as the week before Christmas and on Christmas Eve, excited children can meet Santa in his Grotto and whisper their wish list for the big day. All donations for Santa’s Grotto will be provided to Variety, the Children’s Charity. Meanwhile, Santa and his ‘Little Helpers’ will take to the stage in Santa’s Showtime in the East Wintergarden, keeping the kids (and adults) entertained with a series of shows on 1 and 2 December. Three shows will take place daily at 12noon, 2pm and 4pm. Tickets are free for under 2s, £2 for children and concessions, £4 for adults and will be available from early November, visit canarywharf.com for further information. All donations for Santa’s Showtime will go to Richard House Children’s Hospice.
Santa’s Showtime, East Wintergarden
CHILDREN’S FESTIVE ACTIVITIES Wind your way around Canary Wharf on the Magical Treasure Trail or enjoy a splash of Festive Face Painting in Cabot Place, Canada Place and Jubilee Place. Canary Wharf also allows you to get in touch with your creative side with some cookie and cupcake decorating workshops courtesy of Sweet Couture, Cake Boutique and the little ones can also personalise love heart boxes and stained glass creations. Throughout December, children can spend the weekends enjoying Canary Wharf’s Enchanted Mirror installation, which provides endless fun for young ones, whilst adding to the magic and sparkle of Christmas. Spend £10 or more at any shop, café, bar or restaurant in Canary Wharf at the weekend and enjoy 3 hours free parking in any of its public car parks.
Boisdale of Canary Wharf, Cabot Place
A FOODIE’S HEAVEN To add some glamour to the festive period, experience one of Boisdale of Canary Wharf’s ‘Christmas In Vegas’ packages, which come complete with Pete Long’s 9-piece Big Band and the ultimate Rat Pack singers Iain Mackenzie and Steve Pert. Those looking to warm up should visit ROKA for its popular Weekend Brunch, a spectacular array of dishes, including ROKA’s acclaimed dessert platters. To watch the winter world go by, make for the impressive Plateau Restaurant Bar & Grill which overlooks the glittering ice rink below.
Ice Rink Canary Wharf
www.canarywharf.com
@yourcanarywharf
TRADITIONS OF AVIATION:
Up In The Air Hatchwell Antiques, the Chelsea-based family-run business, offers a unique range titled Art Air, comprising beautiful aviation antiques ideal for bringing an industrial-style edge to a room
A FAMILY RUN BUSINESS since 1961, Hatchwell Antiques is a firm favourite of locals in Chelsea thanks to its wide range of exceptional (and unusual) pieces, from 18th century lighting to 20th century designs. Whether you are an avid collector or simply wish to furnish your home in an individual way, Hatchwell Antiques is a consistently reliable source. The Art Air collection, which boasts a fantastic selection of aviation antiques including propellers, turbines and models, is no exception. The collection has a great variety of pieces and styles, and is ideal for aviation enthusiasts who want to make a striking statement, as well as those who want a more subtle aircraft style. In addition to the wonderful authentic items, the collection also
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includes unique pieces of furniture which have been made out of aviation pieces. The P&W mirror, for example, is a dramatic and attractive piece crafted from a Pratt & Whitney jet engine. As well as bringing a striking industrial edge to a room, the piece has a fascinating heritage; not many people can say that their mirror used to power a Boeing 727. The Turbine Coffee table, a former Rolls-Royce jet engine turbine fan, is a surprisingly elegant item, and would fit wonderfully in any modern home; it’s bound to appeal to many more than just plane spotters. Hatchwell Antiques, 533 Kings Road, SW10 0TZ 020 7351 2344; www.hatchwellantiques.co.uk
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LICENSE TO
Thrill
Boys’ toys and driving days are supposed to be some of life’s little extravagances. But what if you leave out the word ‘little’ and take these to another level? NICK SMITH tells us what’s on his ultimate wish list
THE FAST AND THE FURIOUS
STERLING SILVER Spending £50K on a car these days may not be entirely unusual, unless of course it’s for one that you can put on your mantelpiece. When it comes to keeping up with the current excitement around the James Bond lifestyle, though, this is simply the cost of doing business. Silversmith Grant MacDonald has created a stunning model of the One-77 Aston Martin millionpound super car in sterling silver. This 1:17 scale model is hand-finished and mounted on a sold rosewood and sterling silver plinth. Quite the talking point.
Petrol-heads and Formula 1 fans worldwide share the same fantasy of being at the wheel of a supercar and racing round world-famous tracks at breakneck speeds. This dream can be brought to life in style with a Silverstone driving experience. Whatever your boy racer daydream, Silverstone will have the answer. Experiences include the ever-popular Ferrari experience, where drivers take to the track in the iconic Ferrari 360 F1 Modena. Thrill seekers will be drawn to the 4X4 Extreme experience, an off-road extravaganza on a purpose-built course, where the handling of any driver will be challenged by the steep gradients, big drops and deep water. This is one of those childhood dreams which actually can come true. Silverstone Driving Experiences 0844 3728 270; www.silverstone.co.uk
Sterling Silver One-77 Aston Martin super car model, £49,950 Silver by Aston Martin concession in Harrods, www.harrods.com
ACTION MAN With 85 different tools and weighing in at around a kilogram, the Swiss Army Giant Knife certainly lives up to its name. Incorporating every single tool that the manufacturer has ever included in its legendary penknives, what the Giant lacks in practicality it more than makes up for in sheer technological geekiness. If you’ve ever wanted to scale a fish, trim a cigar, scrape the wax off your skis, repair a golf green and open a bottle of wine at the same time, then the Giant could be all your Christmas wishes rolled into one. Not recommended at airport security checks though. Swiss Army Giant knife, £799.95, www.amazon.co.uk
FEATURE
WORTH A THOUSAND WORDS Some photographers write poems about them while others believe that they have a soul. One thing is certain, though, and that is that the name Leica is a byword for the very best in cameras. With the launch of its most versatile model to date – the Leica M digital rangefinder – the company’s reputation for photographic excellence is set to increase further. The Leica M combines digital innovation with its legendary rangefinder technology that has been continuously perfected over decades. It is available in black paint or silver chrome finish. Leica M Digital Camera, £5,100, Leica, 34 Bruton Place, W1J 6NR
HEAVEN SCENT Surely every gentleman wants to smell irresistible? A variation on the fresh, spicy and woody notes of Déclaration by Cartier, this new masculine scent is just the ticket in a rather stylish bottle that we can just imagine proudly on display in your bedroom, dressing room or bathroom. The brand declares this “an impulsive perfume capable of sweeping away taboos, brazenly daring to say the unsayable and conjuring up moments of unforgettable bliss.” What more could the modern man desire? Déclaration d’Un Soir, Eau de Toilette, £70 www.cartier.co.uk
QUALITY CONTROL If you’ve ever wanted to know why a Steinway doesn’t really sound like a Steinway on your music system at home, it’s because very few loudspeakers are able to reproduce that sort of sound in that sort of detail. Enter the Meridian DSP8000 digital active loudspeaker that sets new standards for clarity, dynamics, imaging and realism in music. To get such a great sound Meridian puts as much work into speaker cabinet construction as you might into building a piano. The electronics are designed with only one thing in mind: sound quality. The result is beyond words and you need to hear them for yourself. Meridian DSP8000 Digital Active Loudspeakers, £35,000, www.meridien-audio.com
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ALL ABOARD
TheLuxury Brand Show Running the same time as this year’s Tullett Prebon London Boat Show, the Luxury Brand Show 2013 promises to be a Mecca for those who appreciate the finer things in life FROM THE OUTSET it was F designed to be different; a showcase without equal. Now, after a year of planning, the Luxury Brand Show 2013 is set to achieve its aim, opening next month as the most impressive exhibition of its kind in the UK. Set within the auspicious confines of the 2013 Tullett Prebon London
Boat Show, and featuring the products of more than 100 luxury lifestyle brands, this year’s Luxury Brand Show breaks the mould from anything that has gone before. Based on the success of a similar show in 2012, from which the exhibition has evolved, this year’s fair returns at nearly twice the size; imagine walking into the largest luxury department store you’ve ever seen, complete with boys’ toys, designer gadgets, home cinemas and much more under one enormous roof. In addition to the world’s latest supercars, high-end road cars and classic automobiles, the Luxury Brand Show 2013 will showcase
PROMOTION
lavish homeware, exclusive UK and overseas properties, the best in leisure and holiday pursuits, the International Watch Fair and a collectors’ gallery. Should that not be enough, a ticket to the exposition will grant you access to the Tullett Prebon London Boat Show 2013, a glittering meet of some of the world’s most desirable sailing and motor yachts. Running at ExCeL London the same time as the Active Travel Show, the Outdoors Show and London Bike Show,
The Luxury Brand Show was designed to be different; a showcase without equal a ticket will also grant you entry to these fascinating, adventure-led exhibitions. Keith Kemp and Peter Stow, partners at St. James’s Place, comment: “Following our participation and support of last year’s show, we are again delighted to be sponsoring the next Luxury Brand Show which promises to be even more exciting!” And so it certainly does; visitors will bear witness to a host of exclusive product launches and UK firsts. One of which will be the public debut of Kopi Luwak One, the world’s most exclusive coffee brand, courtesy of Bespoke Beverages Ltd. Known as ‘the Pinnacle of Coffee’, the incredible taste of Kopi Luwak One has, until now, only been available by appointment or referral, enjoyed by just a handful of coffee connoisseurs around the globe. Elsewhere, MTECH, the UK’s leading independent Ferrari race specialists, will be offering visitors the chance to develop their driving skills. MTECH offer their clients complete racing packages, including the chance to develop circuit driving skills and obtain an official racing license. They’ll also fly you out to Scandinavia for some Ice Driving in a Lamborghini, Audi RS4 or Porsche 997. To put your driving skills to the test, Ultimate Car Control specialises in empowering drivers of high performance vehicles with an unsurpassed level of car control. Gracing the carpets of ExCeL London this year, the company teaches advanced driving techniques that allow you to remain in control of your vehicle, even in extreme circumstances. Promising to provide experiences to remember, Club Wembley will be on hand to offer the best in food, football, music and sporting events. For premium home-ware, Gallery Rouge will be providing contemporary fine art and sculptures while Hydropool displays the most luxurious in self-cleaning hot tubs. Elsewhere, fine watch and jewellery lovers can behold the latest collections from the likes of Chopard and Girard-Perregaux (pictured). Motoring enthusiasts will also be given plenty at
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which to ogle. As well as the Lightning Car Company and Imperials Cars, a replica of a handbuilt 1958 Vanwall will be in attendance. Vanwall was the first British manufacturer to construct a car that won a Formula 1 World Championship race. The year was 1957 and the driver one Sir Stirling Moss. The car at the show will be the world’s first replica of the famous Vanwall ’58. But perhaps the star of the show will be P&A Wood’s Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost. Made in 1908, ‘The Silver Dawn’ has been laboriously renovated to feature all of its original parts, including its chassis, engine, gearbox and under seat fuel tank. Worth around £4 million it will no doubt attract as much attention as even the biggest boats across the hall. Showcasing so many eminent brands, from the worlds of motoring, travel, jewellery, interiors, leisure and finance, the Luxury Brand Show 2013 is a Mecca for those with an appreciation of the finer things in life.
THE LUXURY BRAND SHOW 2013 Dates: 12 – 20 January 2013 Destination: ExCeL London Show features include: • The Supercar Showcase Gallery and Millionaires Playground – featuring supercars, classic cars and the ultimate motoring experiences • The Luxury Home & Property Show – presenting the latest products and finest UK and international properties • International Watch Fair – for the latest pieces and most sought-after collectors’ editions • The Limited Edition Gallery – a selection of collectable artworks and sculptures • Leisure & Wellbeing – from the world’s most amazing holiday destinations to the most luxurious beauty and spa treatments For tickets please visit www.theluxurybrandshow.com.
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At capacity: More than 5,000 tennis lovers are seated to the ceiling of the Royal Albert Hall
Persian prince: Mansour Bahrami
Court charmer: Tim Henman
SPORT
MIND
Games The Royal Albert Hall has cleared the stage of musicians and scientists for a tournament of unprecedented sporting spectacle. GEMMA TAYLOR speaks with the stars of this year’s Statoil Masters Tennis to unravel the mysteries of the tennis player psyche
Dream team: Mark Philippoussis (left) and Pat Cash
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THE CENTRAL ATRIUM OF the Royal Albert Hall was originally built by Prince Albert to promote the understanding of cultural concerts and exhibitions and this winter, it’s being transformed into Lapland’s answer to Wimbledon. World champions such as national treasure Tim Henman, the famously volatile seven-time Grand Slam Champion John McEnroe, Pat Cash, Goran Ivanisevic, Carlos Moyá, Mark Philippoussis, Mats Wilander and trick-shot maestro Mansour Bahrami will be among those battling it out at this official ATP Champions Tour finale. As one of the most intimate and intense tennis courts in the world, only those well-versed in the stresses of the game will survive. First up, representing France in the Paris corner is Henri Leconte. Off-court bad-boy Henri brought a roguish cheekiness to the tennis industry in the 80s that he says has now been replaced with steely professionalism. “What makes this tournament so fun is that you can be a real personality. There’s less pressure and the stakes aren’t so high. Tennis today is harder, faster, and the entourage is huge. I had one coach. Now you have three coaches and a sports psychologist.” The left-handed 48-year-old is confident of his place on the court and admits to being his own most formidable opponent: “Sometimes you can be in the moment and sometimes you have to reconsider everything, take it apart and put it back together. I still always try to be the best that I can be. I train hard and look after my family. It’s busy but there’s no better feeling than being on the court. I feel at
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home there. I know what I am doing.” Henri used to be obsessive about pre-match habits and do everything exactly the same but he’s left such superstitions behind him and doesn’t hark back to the past. “You live the way life is when you’re in it. We had our time and the players today have theirs. Playing greats like McEnroe, Cash, Ivanovic and Henman at the Albert Hall is a unique and special experience; the atmosphere is unreal and the hard plastic surface is spectacular. It’s a pleasure to be there because British people love their tennis, especially now Murray has won the US Open.” A notorious foe of Henri’s is Mats Wilander. Beating Henri in straight sets at the 1988 French Open final, despite strong support from the crowd, means this year could see a grudge match. Swedish Mats, 47, now lives in the States and reminisces fondly about the last time he was in the Royal Albert Hall playing Knocking on Heaven’s Door on guitar for charity. “We call this tournament the Wimbledon of the Champions Tour because it never changes. Tennis players are traditionalists and like to see venues the same as when we’re at the top. A timeless venue, it takes you back there instantly. The crowd is respectable and really appreciates your level and effort.
They know how to have a good laugh and allow themselves to be drawn into the drama,” he says. A big personality, Mats is looking forward to entertaining on court and being friends with his opponents straight after the match. “The heat of the battle is the same but none of our lives will change like they do in your mid-20s. McEnroe is a treat and Pat Cash is a good friend and only a year younger. We have played tourneys since we were 17 years old and now, 31 years later, I don’t think our games have fundamentally changed. We still have the same tactical mind-set but the shorts aren’t as tight!” he smiles. Years at the top have honed Mats’ psyche to handle the pressures of the game. He explains that “the skill of the professional athlete is to never think about the future. We felt the game was quick back then and now it’s wild. I am my own sports psychologist and try to solve each little problem as it happens. Losing is the biggest challenge and if you start thinking you’re winning you can lose track of the problemsolving process. Even if you’re ahead of the score board it doesn’t mean you’re winning. Ignore the score board. This is what separates Murray today from Murray three years ago. “Tennis players are grounded and responsible people; they are out there winning or losing. At professional
STATOIL TENNIS TOP TRUMPS
MARK PHILIPPOUSSIS
MATS WILANDER
HENRI LECONTE
Age: 34 (7 November 1976)
Age: 47 (22 August 1964)
Age: 48 (4 July 1963)
Star sign: Scorpio
Star sign: Leo
Star sign: Cancer
Lives: Las Vegas, United States
Lives: Idaho, United States
Residence: Geneva, Switzerland
Plays: Right-handed
Plays: Right-handed
Plays: Left-handed
Singles titles: 11
Singles titles: 33 (7 Grand Slams)
Singles titles: 9
Doubles titles: 3
Doubles titles: 7 (1 Grand Slam)
Doubles titles: 10 (1 Grand Slam)
Highest ATP rating: 8 (Doubles - 18)
Highest ATP rating: 1
Highest ATP rating: 5 (Doubles - 6)
Career prize money: £4,343,993.29
Career prize money: £4,960,315.04
Career prize money: £4,960,315.04
SPORT ‘Mushrooms’ inserted in 1969 fixed the terrible acoustics
Goran Ivaniševic, the only wildcard Wimbledon men’s singles winner
levels it’s now a very serious business and I worry about children who are starting for career reasons; it should be about having a healthy body and mind. It can be a very lonely sport and hard for the mind if you’re losing regularly. Playing the Wimbledon doubles with my best friend, Joakim Nyström, was the best win of my life because very few people know what it feels like to win a Grand Slam victory.” One former world number one who knows what this feels like is the smoothtalking Mark Philippoussis. Currently living in California, the 34-year-old Australianborn Mark takes a relaxed approach to his mornings, starting with a fresh OJ and surfing. When it comes to tennis though, the gloves are off. Turning professional in 1995, Mark became one of the youngest players ever to be in the top 50 in the world and has no plans to play nice. “The set up on court is incredible and like no other because it has a theatrical and concert style vibe. And the England fans are well educated about their tennis and passionate about sport so they can feel when it’s a big point. The great thing about the tour is that we’re all playing for fun with no politics and playing guys you know and respect. In fact, this is my favourite event of the year.”
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Court live-wire: John McEnroe
The Statoil Masters Tennis Royal Albert Hall, 5-9 December Tickets to the Masters Tennis are on sale from £17.50 per person. Book tickets at www.royalalberthall.com/tickets or call the Box Office on 020 7070 4404. For information on hospitality packages call IMG on 020 8233 5854 or visit www.statoilmasterstennis.com Proceeds from the event will be donated to Centrepoint to help homeless 16-25 year-olds in the UK
WHAT THE STARS THINK OF FEDERER “People say he is a machine. He’s not a machine; he is a human but he finds the right moment and balances power and tactics” - Henri Leconte “Rodge is brilliant physically and good at dusting himself off. If he loses, next week you don’t see lack of confidence. He plays with a smile on his face, is up for every match and has great consistency” - Mats Wilander
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The UK’s greaTesT lUxUry lifesTyle exhibiTion reTUrns in parTnership wiTh The TUlleTT prebon london boaT show aT exCel, 12 - 20 JanUary 2013
www.theluxurybrandshow.com
PARTNERS
To enquire about exhibiting and the benefits of joining Exclusively, please contact graham.davies@exclusivelyevents.co.uk © P&A Wood Rolls-Royce Specialist
Runwild_DPS_advert_6_OL.indd 2-3
SHOW SPONSOR
The UK’s greaTesT lUxUry lifesTyle exhibiTion reTUrns in parTnership wiTh The TUlleTT prebon london boaT show aT exCel, 12 - 20 JanUary 2013
www.theluxurybrandshow.com
© Lightning Car Company
23/10/12 12:09:38
ENJOY YOUR VERY OWN WALL OF SOUND The new BeoLab 12 is a fully digital on-wall loudspeaker that produces sensational surround sound in a graceful, minimalist fashion. It is the perfect compliment to any flat-screen or home stereo system. This revolutionary loudspeaker co-operates with the wall it is placed on, transmitting treble and bass sounds with outstanding precision and depth. BeoLab 12 features a sculptural design that forms a reassuring wave pattern that beholds powerful capabilities, maximizing every inch of the slim space. Call it the world’s most high-performing optical illusion, because when viewed from the side, this commanding loudspeaker appears even slimmer.
Visit our showroom to experience the spectacular sound of BeoLab12 Bang & Olufsen of Chelsea 147 Kings Road, London SW3 5TX Tel: 020 7376 5222 Email: chelsea@bang-olufsen.co.uk www.bang-olufsen.com/chelsea
bang-olufsen.com
Bang & Olufsen of Chelsea - BeoLab 12 Advert - Place at 100% (297 x 210mm + 3mm Bleed)
WHEN IN ROME...
A Home From Home ‘A hotel with a difference’ is a phrase that can be overused, but with Armando Manni’s beautiful Casa Manni boutique hotel, the phrase undeniably rings true
THE FIRST AND MOST OBVIOUS thing that differentiates Casa Manni from other hotels in Rome is that the number of guests staying there never exceeds a total of two. The hotel essentially consists of one luxury suite; a beautifully designed penthouse located atop a picturesque 17th century palazzo right in the heart of Rome. This total exclusivity means that all the services one would expect to find in a top hotel are solely available for whichever lucky couple chooses to stay there. Although this aspect immediately differentiates Casa Manni from other hotels, what really sets it apart from the competition is the wealth of expertise on the city of Rome which is available to
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guests. Armando Manni, the hotel’s founder, promises to deliver an experience of ‘Rome for Romans’, meaning that guests are in no danger of falling into any of the usual tourist traps. From exclusive tailored tours of Rome’s most magnificent sights to dinner prepared by one of Rome’s top chefs, no request is too extravagant. For wine lovers, the selection of more than 1,000 Italian fine wines is sure to include something to suit any palette. For anyone looking to escape with a loved one and dive into the heart of the best that Rome can offer, Casa Manni is truly unbeatable. www.casamanni.com
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Travel the
WORLD “Not all those who wander are lost” – J.R.R. Tolkien Photography: PHOTOBIGBEN.COM. ARTIST: Francisco Cortés Zamudio
Photography: Ben Nilsson
Jet Setter Essentials From ski jackets to reading material, don’t forget these travel essentials if you’re jetting off on a winter holiday this month
Aiming High: The Life and Times of Ski Pioneer Erna Low by Mark Frary Available to pre-order; published in January
Photography: PHOTOBIGBEN.COM. ARTISTS: Lilya Pobornikova, Viktor Tsarski
Fit for an Ice Queen Ski chalets, Christmas markets, alpine lodges... some holiday destinations flourish in the winter months and none more so than the Ice Hotel in Sweden. The first hotel in the world which melts in the spring and has to be rebuilt every year, this incredible destination is a must-do on many travellers’ wishlists. Boasting the most ideal location for viewing the Northern Lights, the hotel also offers the suitably unusual winter activities of dog sledding and exhilarating snow mobile tours. Just remember to wrap up warm.
Luxe City Guides, £4.99 each www.luxecityguides.com
www.icehotel.com/uk
Lievre padded jacket, £1,335 Moncler, 197 Sloane Street, SW1X 9QX www.moncler.com
Mountainside Escape When most people dream of European skiing holidays, France, Switzerland and Austria are destinations that immediately spring to mind. As a result, the Italian Dolomites are often overlooked, despite excellent skiing and indisputable beauty. San Lorenzo Mountain Lodge is a great example of what this area has to offer, combining seclusion and privacy with opulence and comfort. The interior of the lodge is the perfect place in which to return after a day on the slopes, cosy yet elegant. The lodge can provide private tuition or for those who do not wish to ski, moonlight sleigh rides and winter paragliding. Return after a wonderful, bracing winter’s day out to delicious cuisine and a cellar stocked with fine wines.
Globetrotter Suitcase £1,900, Sophie Hulme www.sophiehulme.com
Zero 1 Rhodium glasses, £795 FINEST SEVEN, www.finestseven.com
www.sanlorenzomountainlodge.com
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In the
REALM
Senses OF THE
Secluded among the tropical forests of the South China Sea, Vietnam is one of those stylishly secret destinations where you can still find real peace and tranquility. NICK SMITH chills out at the exclusive Six Senses Ninh Van Bay resort
few traditional fishing boats sway gently in the tide as our speedboat pulls up to the wooden jetty at Ninh Van Bay. The crossing from Nha Trang to this isolated pocket of pure white sandy coast has taken less than an hour but it’s not until you’re right on top of it that you would ever suspect that the Six Senses resort is even here. It blends so well into the almost lunar coastline that you immediately feel that you have arrived at the perfect Oriental escape from the frantic hustle and bustle of pre-Christmas London. More like a village than a resort, Ninh Van Bay is a seemingly casual collection of beachfront villas, some perched on gigantic boulders, some with steps into the sea and others clinging to outcrops on the lower
slopes of the mountains. There is a stunning bar and accompanying restaurant facing into the sunset and the only sounds you can hear are those of warm breezes in the trees and of waves lapping the shore. For those not wanting to lose connection with the outside world there’s wireless internet too, but such is the aura of natural calm that digital distractions soon evaporate. On realising that the best thing to do here is almost nothing, you slowly forget to charge your smartphone or check your emails. You forget to lock your door too. But that doesn’t matter because you’re in the middle of nowhere. This is a place devoted to relaxing and as you get your bearings you quickly realise that the Six Senses Spa is about to become the centre of your world. Set back from the shore, hidden in a peaceful haven of fruit trees
TRAVEL
Photography: Nick Smith
and water features, it is mission control for the serious business of balancing calm and harmony. At one end of the scale you can dive straight in, with a restorative holistic massage with its long strokes and exotic scents, which will send you spinning into a sleep from which your spa therapist awakens you at the end of your session. At the other you can invigorate yourself with a Thai massage that will wake up every cell in your body as you listen to the tropical birds calling to each other. We followed the daily routine of spa treatments with the soft flowing exercises of T’ai Chi, a kind of eastern meditation in movement that corrects western posture and tranquilises the spirit, integrating the mind and senses. Maybe my urban approach to life is too ingrained to allow all these wonderful things to wash over me completely
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but the experience was certainly otherworldly, and as I sauntered back to my beachfront pool villa through the exquisite organic vegetable garden and its neighbouring fruit orchard, I felt that Ninh Van Bay was winning in its quest to get me to forget London. It’s easy to see why people come here to get married and it’s easy to see why Princess Caroline of Monaco comes here just to hang out. If this all seems a bit too peaceful – and there are times when taking it this easy can feel slightly overindulgent – there’s a change of pace to be found in the activities centre where heading out to sea is the order of the day. Wear yourself out with water-skiing, snorkelling, diving, sailing and fishing, all in privacy and tranquillity, all preparing you for your evening cocktail while watching Nha Trang’s twinkling lights across the water.
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TRAVEL INFORMATION
Feeling so cut off from the world is a wonderful experience but there comes a time when you want to go souvenir hunting. To do this all that is required is a quick boat transfer to Six Senses’ sister property, Ana Mandara, in Nha Trang itself. Sandwiched between golden sands and the main coast road, Ana Mandara conjures up an atmosphere of languid sunbathing, beach volleyball and shopping. Take a rickshaw tour of the city and stop off at the Po Nagar temple complex that is Vietnam’s answer, in miniature, to Cambodia’s more famous Angkor Wat. Here we explored the temples that for centuries have served the spiritual requirements of Hindus, Muslims and followers of the myriad local eastern religions. The highlight is a walk around the traditional market, a chance to stock up on chopsticks, conical hats and coffee. If you’ve not had the pleasure of the local kopi luwak you might wonder about the attraction of this absurdly expensive coffee. Originally it was blended from beans that had passed through the digestive system of a civet cat which sounds disgusting but don’t worry; today Trung Nguyên, which sells the coffee, makes its own version (known as Legendee) using a wholesome enzyme process that simulates the civet’s involvement. Dark and chocolate-y with a hint of hazelnut, its unique taste has given this local speciality a reputation as the best coffee in the world. Vietnam isn’t going to be everyone’s first choice for a chilled luxury escape from the modern world. After all,
The Po Nagar temple complex is Vietnam’s answer to Angkor Wat for many of us just the name brings to mind the ravages of recent history and the tense political ambience of books such as Graham Greene’s A Quiet American. But it’s not like that any more and the country’s checkered Cold War history sleeps peacefully in the background, only occasionally reminding you of its presence in the big cities of Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi. Today, you’ll be concentrating on the soaring volcanic mountains, the impossibly picturesque rice paddies and the endless colour of a landscape that really has moved on from its past. Sometimes paradise is a long way away. When I first came to Vietnam in 2011 there were no direct flights from the UK and the stopover in Malaysia was a tedious way to start your travels. Now that there are direct flights from London, courtesy of new scheduling from Vietnam Airlines, the only thing between you and the largely unknown pleasures of this undiscovered country is an uneventful, if rather long voyage, that lifts you out of one world into another.
Kuoni offers 8 nights in Nha Trang, Vietnam, staying 2 nights at the 4.5-star Evason Ana Mandara Nha Trang (Garden Villa) and 6 nights at the 5-star Six Senses Ninh Van Bay (Hill Top Villa) both with breakfast, including flights with Vietnam Airlines from Gatwick and transfers in resort. Prices for 2013 from £1,849 per person based on two sharing (a saving of up to £1,353 per couple; price applies to departures from 6 February 2013) Kuoni: 01306 747008; www.kuoni.co.uk
TRAVEL
GASTRONOMIC VIETNAM In a class of its own One of the best things about Vietnam is the food. Although it might seem, on the surface at least, to bear a resemblance to other oriental cuisine, it’s different from how we perceive Thai or Chinese food and is worth getting to know. With their fresh, crisp vegetables and green herbs, subtle spices and seafood, dishes such as goi cuon, canh chua ca and hai san kho to are all to be found on the menu at Six Senses. As I found out, though, you’ll learn more about these delicacies by making them yourself. At Six Senses there is a great opportunity for this. Its Vietnamese Cooking Classes – just one of the many activities to while away your time at Ninh Van Bay – are an eye-opener into the way the dishes arrive at your table in the restaurant. Fortunately all the chopping, cutting and dicing is done for you, but from the moment you start to blend the peanut sauce that goes with the prawn and tofu hand rolls, you’re transported into the world of Vietnamese street cooking. It’s well worth joining in, because unless you’re lucky enough live near to some of London’s oriental food markets, you won’t find all the authentic ingredients you’ll need back home. What’s best is that you get to eat what you cook. Maybe your offerings won’t look quite as exquisite as the professionals’ deliveries to your poolside barbecue but there’s real pride to be had in a job well done. Apart from the prawn rolls in rice paper, we made hot and sour fish soup, followed by seafood simmered in a claypot. Washed down with fresh mango juice from the Six Senses garden or an ice-cold bottle of Vietnam 333 beer, the effect is magical.
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Sky
UNDER A TUSCAN
A new project in Italy – the prettily named Castello di Casole – means you can easily live the Tuscan dream in the lap of luxury. ANGELINA VILLA-CLARKE finds herself falling in love with the dolce vita (and planning her next Italian holiday)
TRAVEL
ho hasn’t fleetingly toyed with the romantic notion of living in Tuscany (especially at this time of year)? The idea of setting up home in a terracotta-hued farmhouse in this picturesque part of Italy, sunflowers nodding outside, has an eternal appeal for us Brits. Of course, the reality is often very different. These days, property in Tuscany is prohibitively expensive – in some areas almost equal in price to central London – so it is an understatement to say that in this part of the world a bargain is hard to come by. In addition, there’s the cost of renovating a dilapidated house, not to mention the difficulties this can also entail abroad, especially in Italy where red tape rules supreme. Thankfully, those dreamers among us will be delighted with a new luxury venture that has just opened its doors and which offers a slice of the idyll at a fraction of the cost. Enter Castello di Casole, a sprawling estate set in 4,200 acres of private grounds, just a 45-minute drive south of Florence. At its heart is a stunning boutique hotel restored from the original 10th-century Etruscan castle, with surrounding and uber-stylish villas (casali), converted from the original farmhouses, which are available to rent or buy through a fractional ownership scheme. One of the largest private landholdings in Italy, the estate was once home to the noble Bargagli family and was more recently owned, in the 1960s, by Italian film director Luchino Visconti. With a game reserve, many working farms, a vineyard and even its own school on the grounds, Visconti was passionate about keeping the estate self-sufficient and true to its rich heritage. Being a jet-set Italian in the 60s, it goes without saying that he also enjoyed the good life. He opened up his house to many of his famous friends, such as Sophia Loren and Burt Lancaster, and threw many a lavish – now legendary – party (the evidence of which can be seen in the moody black and white photos in the hotel’s Visconti bar). The estate is now under the umbrella of American company Timbers Resorts, which continues
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the passion for being true to the past. It has taken the company five years of painstaking restoration work, in which local artisans have employed traditional methods and used reclaimed materials found on site, such as wood beams, ceramic tiles and terracotta. The result is simply beautiful. The hotel itself, for example, is a sublime mix of traditional Tuscan charm meeting the best of contemporary Italian design. The 41 suites are sensitively decorated, yet wonderfully modern, providing that truly, and often elusive, ultra-luxurious feel. Walls are painted rich reds, sage greens and golds, carved furniture sits upon flagstone floors, and windows are framed by wooden shutters. Meanwhile bathrooms are vast with stand-alone tubs, shower rooms, acres of marble and ultra-modern taps and fittings (and rightly so, as, let’s face it, guests at a luxury hotel do not want an authentically rustic bathroom). There’s a choice of suites; 18 are found within the main castle walls, nine are in the nearby Casa del Prete (the original priest’s quarters), the five two-storey Limonaia suites, tucked behind the hotel, are carved out of a converted lemon barn, and the nine Oliveto suites,
Breathtaking views of the countryside are like a scene from one of Visconti’s films just above the main courtyard, have a private apartment feel about them with their own large terraces. While each have their own distinct interior style, they also have one thing in common – the wow-factor. This doesn’t come from imaginative interior design or the antique chests and crisp linens (as lovely as they are); it’s achieved from the breathtaking views they share of the countryside beyond. It’s like a scene from one of Visconti’s films. If you want the traditional Tuscan experience (albeit spruced up and served on a rustic platter) this is the place to stay. Look to your right and you’ll see an avenue of cypress trees, crunch across the piazza and your senses will be tickled by the scent of rosemary, lavender and thyme, water from the fountain tinkles on the breeze, and the starry infinity pool (straight out of Hollywood) merges with the endless rolling hills in the distance. While there’s no doubt that Castello offers the highest spec of a five star (and more) experience, the ethos nonetheless is relaxed luxury. Out is the starched formality often found in premier hotels
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(no staff are allowed to wear ties, for instance), and in is a charmingly personalised service, just the right side of laidback. Talking of relaxing, food, of course, plays a central role. At the elegant Ristorante Tosca, you dine under huge custom-made Murano glass chandeliers. The focus is on regional pastas and local meats, such as the signature ricotta and spinach ravioli in a black truffle and pecorino cheese fondue (are you salivating yet?). Herbs and vegetables are grown in the hotel’s gardens, while game, such as wild boar, venison and pheasant, olive oil and wine (the hotel has its own Sangiovese vintage) are sourced from the land on the estate. It’s non-fussy fine dining. More laidback still is the Pazzia Pizzeria. Exposed brick walls, the original pizza ovens, antique banquettes and a gelateria combine to make a charming traditional feel. For those who want to be active, there are bikes available for you to get out and explore the network of paths and roads (watch out for Sting’s house which is not far from the hotel). Or perhaps yoga will appeal? Lessons take place every morning in the converted chapel. Perfect for easing those muscles afterwards is a pampering session in the cavernous Essere Spa, formerly a wine cellar. Lie back under the vaulted ceilings and it’s almost as if you’ve been transported back to the times of the Medici family. You’ll be sure to have a renaissance moment. Planned for next year, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Visconti’s most famous film, The Leopard, is a series of film nights under the stars in the old amphitheatre near the hotel. Further afield, there is lots to do in the surrounding areas – with Florence and Sienna just short drives away. While these are worthwhile day trips for Tuscan novices, the hotel is concentrating on more local offerings. Wine packages will give guests the chance to visit small vino producers in the area, the idea being that connoisseurs can talk directly with the wine-maker and purchase premium wines which are not available in the UK. Oenophiles, keen to go one
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step further, can also happily participate in the winemaking process in Castello’s own 88 acres of vineyards. For foodies, meanwhile, the hotel offers a unique field-to-fork package. On offer are wildlife tours with the game warden, mushroom foraging, truffle hunting and game hunting sessions, all culminating in bespoke cookery classes. Guests can also be taken on guided tours of the local villages and markets – such as Pienza, known for its cheeses, and Greve in Chianti for the chance to buy homemade produce. In essence, whatever takes your fancy, the hotel will try to oblige you. It’s that type of place. And for those who want to buy into the dream completely, perhaps buying one of your own casali is the way to go or you can buy part of one through fractional ownership. There are 17 already restored, with another 11 to be completed by 2016. Each casali is completely different and totally secluded, with at least 20 to 50 acres distance from its neighbour. The décor of each reflects the hotel but has even more panache – there are stone feature walls, marble floors, wine cellars and fire pits on terraces. Wifi and Bose music systems sit under specially commissioned alabaster lights while kitchens are kitted out with antiques and state-of-the art catering equipment. The average price of a villa is around £406,000 for a 12th share – meaning you normally get around five weeks to spend in your property each year. With Timbers taking care of maintenance, upkeep and legal hassles, and with owners being able to access the hotel and its amenities during their stay – this really is the Tuscany I’ve dreamt of. When can I move in? Castello di Casole’s double room rate: from €630 a night (Bed & Breakfast); +39 0577 961 508; castellodicasole.com
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Overlooking Kensington Palace and Hyde Park this gracious hotel offers exceptional value and service and is a landmark of unique character and 21st century elegance. Knightsbridge shopping, Kensington High Street antiques, the Royal Albert Hall and magnificent museums are all near at hand. From the stylish design and decor to the small thoughtful details and the discreet, yet warm personal service, our aim is to make every guest feel special, cared for, and most of all, at home.
1 Kensington Court, London W8 5DL T: +44 (0)20 7917 1000 E: bookms@rchmail.com www.milestonehotel.com For ‘Best Available Rates’ quote Kensington and Chelsea Magazine when booking.
LONDON ON ICE:
Winter Warmers There are many places in London to indulge in a Christmassy cocktail or two. Harvey Nichols is embracing the winter weather, inviting guests to wrap up warm and enjoy their drinks outside
THE TERRACE BAR on the fifth floor of Harvey Nichols may initially seem like an ideal venue to while away a summer’s evening, rather than a chilly night in December. However, Elit by Stolinchnaya vodka has stepped in to transform the terrace into an après ski-style haven, complete with stags heads, vintage skis and windows looking out onto Alpine vistas. Outdoor heaters, cosy blankets and fur throws are provided in abundance to ensure that nobody feels the chill. The terrace also has its own log cabin which is available for bookings, if guests wish to tuck themselves away, mountain-style. The cocktail menu has been designed using the new Stoli Hot and Stoli Sticki vodkas, as well as the luxury Elit by Stolichnaya vodka, distilled using a unique freeze-filtration process and
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consistently ranked among the highest quality spirits in the world. All the cocktails have original flavour combinations, our favourite being the Sticki Situation; a luscious combination of Stoli Sticki vodka, crushed pear, cloves and lemon juice, providing a warming winter flavour. The tapas menu, designed by the Fifth Floor café chefs to compliment the cocktails, contains tempting morsels such as Stoli hot vodka tiger prawns and butternut squash roasted gnocchi with roasted chestnuts. Curled up with a cocktail in one hand and tapas in the other, it’s easy to see the appeal of an outdoor winter bar. Freeze by Elit at the Fifth Floor, Harvey Nichols, 109-125 Knightsbridge 020 7235 5250; www.harveynichols.com
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Good Life Christmas is especially wonderful for enjoying good food, stylish gifts and joyful traditional carols. And, of course, nothing is better than Champagne for creating an atmosphere of celebration. NICK SMITH shares with you his favourite festive bubbles (and turn the page for cigars to enjoy too)
CHAMPAGNE G.H. MUMM R. LALOU 1999 A vintage wine is the exception and not the rule. Only the very best years are dated, making this a sure sign that Mumm’s prestige cuvée, R. Lalou 1999, is going to be something special. Named after Renée Lalou, chairman of Champagne G.H. Mumm for more than half a century, this is an exceptional vintage, crafted from 12 parcels from eight different grand cru villages including Aÿ, Ambonnay, Cramant and Avize. A robust, yet delicate prestige cuvée fit for a king. From Harvey Nichols, £125
Best Food Pairing: Turkey and rich game dishes Best Carol Pairing: In keeping with the regal theme… Good King Wenceslas Best Gift Pairing: Chef Adam Byatt’s new book How To Eat In. Check out Adam’s famous venison wellington
RUINART ROSÉ RUINA Well it wouldn’t be Christmas without a rosé and the Ruinart is a perfect Yule tipple: it’s a sublime golden-pink colour with a touch of coral and it’s filled with extremely fine bubbles that rise in a thin firm line. On the nose it’s fine, subtle and fresh, dominated by aromas of cherry and freshly picked red berries. On the palate it’s well balanced, fruity and fleshy, pleasantly smooth and refreshing in the mouth. From Selfridges, £59.99
Best Food Pairing: Winter berry pie Best Carol Pairing: The classic French carol Minuit, Chrétiens (O Holy Night) Best Gift Pairing: A Jo Malone London blackberry and bay scented candle
DRINKING & DINING
PERRIER-JOUËT BELLE ÉPOQUE, FLORALE EDITION This is the first limited edition of PJ’s Belle Époque bottle since the original design by Emile Galle in 1902. Japanese floral artist, Makoto Azuma has adorned the iconic bottle, housing the 2004 vintage, with golden floral anemones, paying homage to the beauty and elegance of this prestige cuvée. A truly special gift. From Harvey Nichols, £195
Best Food Pairing: Platter of fresh langoustines with lemon mayonnaise Best Carol Pairing: The Holy and the Ivy goes perfectly with the bottle’s design Best Gift Pairing: A Christofle Art Deco ice bucket
PIPER-HEIDSIECK RARE VINTAGE 2002 Delicious and smooth with a stunning pale gold colour, Rare will take you straight to the windswept desert. The first nose is vegetal, complex, subtle, delicate and discreet, with notes of vetiver and exotic wood, followed by pepper, ginger and cumin. The aromas reveal themselves one by one, with a highly distinctive oriental finale, reminiscent of mint tea and incense. Radiant and elegant, its finale is long and delicate: a veil blowing in the fresh desert breeze. From Selfridges, £165
Best Food Pairing: Fresh dates, figs or Christmas pudding Best Carol Pairing: Stay with the oriental flavour: We Three Kings Best Gift Pairing: Settle back with a DVD of Lawrence of Arabia
POL ROGER CUVÉE SIR WINSTON CHURCHILL 1999 Intense, yellow gold and sparkling with a myriad of fine bubbles, Churchill is the Pol Roger trademark. The nose is structured, forceful but with subtle mineral notes and hints of lemon, white pepper and ginger. Foursquare on the palate, mouth filling, robust and powerful, there are touches of minerality, even saltiness, with balance, structure and finesse. A long, lingering finish. From Fortnum & Mason, £127.50
Best Food Pairing: Go for a Romeo Y Julieta cigar; Churchill’s favourite Best Carol Pairing: Keep this one for the Queen’s speech Best Gift Pairing: the Fine Tea Collection from the Harrods’ Food Halls (£200)
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DRINKING & DINING
ANWER BATI, the world’s best-selling author on the subject of cigars, ensures that you’re prepared for the festive social season with his top selection of handmade Havanas
LIKE CHAMPAGNE, CIGARS HAVE always been associated with celebration. Whether it’s a birth, a marriage or a win on the horses, even those who don’t normally smoke will decide that only a good cigar can mark the occasion. And of all occasions, on Christmas and New Year’s Eve it just seems right to light up. Not all cigars are the same, though, and here are a few you might want to try if the mood takes you.
BOLIVAR BELICOSOS FINOS Named after the celebrated South American statesman, Bolivar is a brand for serious smokers of Havana cigars: dark in colour, strong and full-bodied. This cigar, with its pointed top, is one of the most famous in the range. Be sure to cut it carefully and to smoke it slowly (as you should with all cigars), preferably after dinner.
H. UPMANN PETIT CORONAS Dating from 1844, H. Upmann is one of the oldest and best known Havana marques, responsible for introducing the cedar boxes most cigars are now packed in. It is known for smooth, mild to medium cigars, ideal for casual smoking. This size is perfect for beginners wanting a good cigar, but without wanting to get too committed.
HOYO DE MONTERREY EPICURE NO. 1 This brand, dating from 1865, is particularly popular with cigar connoisseurs, such as Sir Terence Conran (who prefers the shorter Epicure No.2, with which he starts his day). They are elegant and of high quality, with a good flavour, but not too aggressive.
COHIBA SIGLO III The Cohiba brand, although created in the 60s, wasn’t available to the general public until 1982 (before which the cigars were given as gifts to diplomats and others) with the medium-flavoured Siglo series added a decade later. Cohibas are among the best and most expensive of Cuban cigars with a distinctive flavour but although many plutocrats puff them, they don’t appeal to all aficionados.
PARTAGAS SERIE D NO.4 This fat, shortish Cuban robusto cigar, with its distinctive red band, became popular in the late 1990s, particularly among those who wanted a punchy but relatively quick smoke after a good lunch or dinner. It remains particularly favoured by movers and shakers without the time to linger after lunch but it’s not for novices.
Celebrating Cigars and The Cigar Companion, both by Anwer Bati, are available on Amazon
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PROMOTION
Photography: Chris Perry
London’s first skate path is now open at Ice Rink Canary Wharf, running until 13 January 2013; with its exclusive rink-side Boisdale on Ice pop-up bar, it promises to be the most romantic rink in London
A SPARKLING CALENDAR OF EVENTS, a Boisdale on Ice pop-up bar and a Wright Brothers Oyster Shack throughout the festive period make this London’s most luxurious and exciting ice rink yet. Canary Wharf’s stunning ice rink, returning for the eighth time but now under new management, is set under the impressive towers surrounding Canada Square Park. The 800m2 rink features London’s first skate path, leading skaters on a glittering trail through trees lit by fairy lights. Make sure not to miss Date Night on 20 November which takes the hassle of dating away by offering an all inclusive package of skating,
Champagne, oysters, and food and wine. The pop-up Boisdale on Ice bar, brought to you by Boisdale of Canary Wharf, provides the perfect place to relax rink-side, get in the festive spirit and watch other skaters having fun on the skate path. Menus include their legendary burgers, hot mince pies and haggis sausage rolls, as well as mulled wine and a great selection of their award-winning wines, malt whiskies and beers. A viewing terrace provides great views of the skate path and spectacular Big Blue sculpture by Ron Arad. Ice Rink Canary Wharf is now taking bookings for Christmas parties, birthdays and corporate events.
MORE INFORMATION 3 November 2012 – 13 January 2013 Monday to Saturday: 9.45am – 11pm Sundays: 9.45am – 7.30pm 17 November: ABBA Night 20 November: Date Night 5 January: Bollywood Night Prices vary; visit www.skatecanarywharf.com for more details about party bookings and ticket prices. Skate lessons are available. Ice Rink Canary Wharf is proudly sponsored by luxury watch company Hublot, one of the UK’s leading property websites, Prime Location, and Small Luxury Hotels of the World, and is in association with Chivas and Boisdale.
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classic dishes, beautifully cooked. cosy, rustic, informal and incurably romantic
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Drinking &
DINING “There is no love sincerer than the love of food” – George Bernard Shaw
Edible Season’s Greetings
Festive Sparkle at Babylon Guests of London’s award-winning Babylon Restaurant at The Roof Gardens in Kensington can enjoy delicious Christmas lunches and dinners this festive season from 19 November until 23 December, 100 feet above Kensington High Street and set against a stunning backdrop of London’s winter skyline. Diners will be treated to a festive menu featuring the best of the season’s ingredients. From modern dishes like butternut squash soup with crème fraiche and chives to traditional roasted turkey steak with bacon and buttered Brussels sprouts, there’s something for everyone. In addition to these delicious dishes, Christmas crackers, seasonal atmosphere and top-notch service, every Monday and Tuesday night guests will also be able to enjoy live jazz. If you’re in a party of eight or more guests, opt for the Christmas Shared Lunch Offer on the 6th floor; at £60 per person, this includes a glass of fizz on arrival, a three-course festive meal, DJ music, coffee and mini stollen finished off with cracking crackers. Book now for 13 or 19 December. For those looking for a gift for a foodie friend or family member, a gift voucher for Babylon Restaurant is the perfect way to wish a loved one Merry Christmas. The gift vouchers are flexible, meaning that each buyer can choose the value, which can then be redeemed in Babylon Restaurant at any time. Vouchers can be purchased from www.roofgardens.virgin.com then personalised with a message and sent directly to the lucky recipient. Lunch party menu: £38 per person (three courses) / £43 (four courses) Dinner party menu: £49.50 per person (three courses) / £54.50 (four courses)
December is a month in which mail boxes are filled with countless Christmas cards, which can often blur together into a haze of well-wishing. If you would like your cards to really stand out, then an edible Biscuiteers Christmas card is sure to catch the attention of any recipient. The biscuit cards can be personalised with a name and greeting of your choice, made out of a tasty icing topping. For a gorgeous gift for a sugar-loving friend, the Biscuiteers Winter Wonderland hamper is a deluxe collection of scrumptious festive treats. Be sure to visit the new Boutique and Icing Café in Notting Hill for the full range of products and gifts for any occasion. Biscuiteers Biscuit Boutique and Icing Café 194 Kensington Park Road Notting Hill, W11 2ES www.biscuiteers.com
Review Marcus Wareing at The Berkeley The website declares boldly that “Marcus Wareing continues to impress with contemporary two Michelin-starred cuisine” and having now had the pleasure of eating there, I can concur; I was thoroughly impressed. Every mouthful, without exception, was exceptional, as was the discreet, immaculate service, and I can’t say I’ve enjoyed a meal as much as this in a while. As one would expect from a restaurant of this calibre, excellence does not come cheap but it’s worth it (perhaps not every week though; best saved for special or indulgent occasions). My guest and I opted for the A La Carte menu and enjoyed pre-starters of warm and perfectly crispy risotto balls and frothy celeriac soup. The bread to choose is definitely the one made from potato flour and honey (it’s sweet and incredibly more-ish). Of the starters, the foie gras with figs and red wine vied for supremacy with the pomegranate and scallops, a surprisingly generous portion of six. The verdict? It was too hard to call. The main course winner was easily the lamb with sweet potato, onions and bacon, cooked to tender perfection. If you’re adventurous, choose the Horlicks-based pudding but we preferred the lemon meringue option; chewy, tangy and sweet. The Berkeley, Wilton Place, Knightsbridge, SW1X 7RL; www.the-berkeley.co.uk For reservations at Marcus Wareing please call 020 7235 1200
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(More)Drinking &
DIN IN G Outlaw’s Seafood and Grill Emulating the style of Outlaw’s Seafood and Grill in Rock, Cornwall, Nathan Outlaw’s latest restaurant in Knightsbridge’s Capital Hotel promised to bring simply prepared, ecologically caught seafood to London. As I first walked into the restaurant, I was slightly surprised by how neutral the interior décor was. However, as soon as my starter arrived, this was forgotten. The roasted scallops, served with a crispy Porthilly oyster, were melt-in-your-mouth delicious. My main course of wild sea bass fillet with saffron, cucumber and mussel sauce was just as divine, with all the flavours perfectly balanced. My partner’s grilled Dover sole looked so inviting that I could not resist a bite for myself and again the flavour was wonderful. As the proud owner of London’s sweetest tooth, I am a firm believer that the proof is in the pudding, and this pudding certainly did not disappoint. Chocolate mousse, pear, honeycomb and caramel ice cream were a wonderful combination, and the perfect way to end a fantastic meal. Outlaw’s Seafood and Grill at The Capital, 22-24 Basil Street, SW3 1AT; 020 7589 5171; www.capitalhotel.co.uk
Treats Under the Tree It is difficult to find anyone who does not love receiving luxury chocolates as a present, especially for Christmas, a season famous for indulgence. So chocolatier Godiva, producer of world-class Belgian chocolates, has created a new collection especially for Christmas, containing a number of delectable gifts. The Royal Swarovski premium gift box contains 61 pieces of finest Godiva chocolates, housed in a Swarovski-encrusted suede box. For a truly festive feel, the Christmas tree chocolates, contained in specially designed gift boxes, are simply irresistible. Gift boxes available at Godiva Chocolate Café in Harrods 87-135 Brompton Road, SW1X 7XL; www.godiva-online-store.eu
More Tea, Vicar? The love affair between the people of Great Britain and their tea is long established and well documented. Ed Flint, vicar and founder of independent tea company Flint & Co. began his company inspired by the motto that “life is too short to drink bad tea” and hopes that with his new range of top quality loose leaf teas, none of his customers will ever have to suffer a bad cup again. The company offers a range of delicious tasting and ethically sourced teas, ranging from soothing camomile to spicy Indian Chai and classics such as Earl Grey and The Vicar’s Breakfast. If you follow the careful brewing tips, a top tea time is guaranteed (as confirmed by our team’s enthusiastic tea-time reaction). www.flint-tea.com
A Fitting Tribute Spencer Collings, purveyor of highly prestigious malt whiskies hand crafted in Scotland, has created an inspired gift, ideal for whisky connoisseurs. Imperial Tribute is an unusual and delightful fusion of ten, 20, 30 and 40-year-old malt whiskies, which combine to create a complex combination of dark Madeira spice, peat smoke, oak and smooth vanilla. Each bottle is individually personalised with the recipient’s name and a message of your choice to produce a unique gift. The bottle is then carefully wrapped and beautifully presented in a luxurious gift box, also containing a matching certificate of ownership. This is a rare and exceptional gift that would take pride of place under any tree. Personalised Whisky, £125 + P&P www.imperialtribute.com
Opulence Indeed If it is extravagance that you seek, then Harrods can always be relied upon to deliver, and the brand new opulence hamper is no exception. Priced at £10,000, it is undeniably the most exclusive hamper ever released by Harrods. The contents are of the highest standard possible and each product has been hand selected for its gourmet pedigree. From champagne to caviar, mince pies to wild smoked salmon, a three-tier Christmas cake to Tesseron Lot 29 Cognac, nothing is missed out in this magnificent selection. As opulent gifts go, this hamper is hard to beat. The Opulence Hamper, £10,000, www.harrods.com
Instead of hours of cooking on Christmas Day, leave the hard work to the professionals BAR BOULUD
THE SHED
THE CINNAMON CLUB
Christmas Day can be one of the most enjoyable days of the year but it can often be a rather stressful experience. If you would rather avoid any cooking and hosting worries, there are many places in London that welcome guests on Christmas Day. Bar Boulud in Knightsbridge has an inviting three course Christmas Day menu, with choices to suit every diner, from traditional glazed turkey leg to ricotta cavatelli with black truffle poached egg. With such inviting choices on offer, the appeal of leaving the hard graft to someone else is quite clear.
One of Notting Hill’s most recent additions, The Shed Bar & Restaurant is already a favourite in the area, due to its vibrant atmosphere and delicious British fare. The traditional-style dishes, always made with an individual flair, are an indulgent choice for a family Christmas meal, and the quirky and rustic interior of the restaurant is ideal for a relaxed festive feel. With plenty of dishes on the Christmas Day menu designed for sharing, this is sure to be a wonderful place to enjoy a meal in the company of loved ones.
Not everyone looks forward to roast turkey with all the trimmings and for those who want to escape tradition as much as possible The Cinnamon Club offers a modern Indian Christmas Day menu, without a Brussels sprout in sight. Instead, diners will be tempted by exotic offerings such as Keralan-style lobster soup, clove roasted goose breast and garam masala Christmas pudding. The fabulous food, combined with the spiceinfused cocktails on offer in the downstairs bar, is sure to create a Christmas Day that any Scrooge cannot help but enjoy.
Bar Boulud, 66 Knightsbridge, SW1X 7LA 020 7201 3899; www.barboulud.com
The Shed Bar & Restaurant 122 Palace Gardens Terrace, W8 4RT 020 7229 4024; www.theshed-restaurant.com
The Cinnamon Club 30-32 Great Smith Street, SW1P 3BU 020 7222 2555; www.cinnamonclub.com
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New Year’s Eve 2012 at The Roof Gardens Escape the crowds in central London and make New Year’s Eve 2012 one to remember. Experience the truly unique setting of 1.5 acres of themed gardens 6 floors above Kensington High Street, with some of London’s hottest DJs, featuring four bars, a heated marquee chill out area and a private fireworks display.
YOUR TICKET INCLUDES: • Entry to The Club from 8pm • A mini bottle of champagne • A selection of complimentary cocktails, drinks from the bar and welcome canapés until 9pm • Live music in the Marquee • Complimentary snack from the BBQ • Three of London’s top DJs in the Clubhouse • Spectacular fireworks display • Breakfast nibbles between 3am and 4am! We’ve also set up a themed photo set for you and your friends to capture the magic of the evening. TICKETS ARE £125 (£105 FOR MEMBERS) AND ARE AVAILABLE ONLINE. www.roofgardensclub.com/new-years-eve
START THE PARTY EARLY IN BABYLON RESTAURANT Make your New Year’s Eve even more memorable this year by treating yourself to four sizzling courses in Babylon Restaurant before heading to The Club. In addition to all the goodies included on the Club ticket, we’ll be serving unlimited beer and wine during your meal. Limited tables are available and places are £230 per person (£200 for members). Contact Babylon Restaurant on 0207 368 3993 babylon@roofgardens.virgin.com
The Roof Gardens 99 Kensington High Street, London W8 5SA www.roofgardensclub.com/new-years-eve • E: victoria.l@roofgardens.virgin.com • T: 0207 368 3960
Photography: Thomas Alexander and Hannah Young Pollyanna Midwood and Mark-Francis Vandelli
Kate Wilkinson, Kate Racovolis, Tom Hoxton and Caroline Garnham
PROMEMORIA AUCTION
Ed Baines of Randall and Aubin
Felipe Silva and Christina Hippisley
Giles Deacon
WHERE: Promemoria Showroom, Pimlico WHAT: Culinary charity auction party WHO: Giles Deacon, Ed Baines, Henry Conway, Camilla Davidson-Houston, Georgia McMillan and Mark-Francis Vandelli
WHY: Luxury Italian design furniture company Promemoria co-hosted an exclusive culinary charity auction party with the Hon. Rosa Monckton, President of KIDS, the disabled children's charity, on Thursday 11 October, to launch the luxe Angelina kitchen cabinetry collection in London. Auction prizes were generously donated by Ed Baines, Eric Lanlard, Romeo Sozzi and Marcus Wareing and the total raised amounted to an impressive sum of more than ÂŁ7,000. Promemoria team
Alice Walden-Jones, Camilla DavidsonHouston and Georgia McMillan
Henry Conway
Hon. Rosa Monckton Sophie Mitchell and guest
Davide Sozzi and Margherita Galli
Promemoria founder Romeo Sozzi
LONDON LIVING Lynda Bellingham, Patricia Hodge and Joanna Lumley
Nicky Henson, Nicholas Parsons, Sir Donald Sinden and Stephen Fry
Nick Hewer, Joanna Lumley and Tom Fenner
Hugh Bonneville, Joanna Lumley and Gyles Brandreth Merlin Holland and Stephen Fry
Will Oakley and Gyles Brandreth
Lucian Holland and Katy Acker
Annie Parsons and Nicholas Parsons
WILDE-LIFE WHERE: The Cadogan Hotel WHAT: Celebrity book launch WHO: Hugh Bonneville, Stephen Fry, Gyles Brandeth, Joanna Lumley, Peter Bowles and Lucian Holland, Oscar Wilde's great grandson WHY: Guests gathered at The Cadogan Hotel in Knightsbridge on 25 October for the launch of Gyles Brandeth's latest novel, Oscar Wilde and the Murders at Reading Gaol. Attendees commemorated the great writer Oscar Wilde and celebrated his notoriously flamboyant persona by sipping on his favourite tipple, Perrier-JouĂŤt Champagne. Peter Bowles and Mrs. Peter Bowles
THE KENSINGTON & CHELSEA MAGAZINE
Flora Spencer-Longhurst and Alistair McGowan
Mike Read and Anneka Rice
135
LONDON LIFESTYLE WHERE: Hurlingham Club, Fulham WHAT: London Lifestyle Awards 2012 WHO: Sinitta, Henry Conway and Arlene Phillips WHY: More than 550 guests gathered at the third annual London Lifestyle Awards at the Hurlingham Club to celebrate the best of London’s lifestyle scene. The event was sponsored by Hot Diamonds, the UK’s leading silver and diamond brand, and this year, 4,127 businesses and personalities competed for one of the prestigious awards. Deserving winners included Arlene Phillips who proudly won the London Lifestyle Legend accolade.
Sinitta and Arlene Phillips
Henry Conway Sinitta
Daniel Brown and Brian Friedman
Tallulah Harlech
Elizabeth Saltzman Walker and Seb Bishop
Minnie Driver
Georgie Thompson
Thom Evans
Alice Dellal
EQUINOX WHERE: Equinox Fitness Centre, Kensington WHAT: Fitness VIP Launch Party WHO: Minnie Driver, Alice Dellal and Mary Charteris WHY: With looking good being one of the chief attributes they share, it was no wonder that celebrities from all walks of life came together to celebrate the launch of the new and exclusive fitness centre, Equinox, housed beneath the Roof Gardens. Calorie-counting canapés and fruity cocktails served on the night reminded us that this place means (healthy) business.
LONDON LIVING
Photography: Marcus Dawes Holly Candy
Claudia Mason and Tamara Beckwith
Lavinia Brennan and Lady Natasha Rufus Isaacs of Beulah London
James Middleton and Katie Readman
BEULAH BASH
Pedita Weeks
Scot Young and Noelle Reno
WHERE: The Brompton Club on the Old Brompton Road WHAT: Launch of the Beulah London collaboration with Hennessy Gold Cup and a preview of the S/S13 collection
WHO: Label founders Lady Natasha Rufus Isaacs and Lavinia Brennan, Princess Eugenie, Tamara Beckwith and Chelsy Davy WHY: Kensington's fashion elite turned out in full force on the evening of 18 October, National Anti-Slavery Day, to support Beulah London's collaboration with Hennessy Gold Cup (taking place on Saturday 1 December). The ethical fashion label has created a special horse-print purple scarf in association with Hennessy and guests were also treated, in addition to a performance by DJ Roo Paines and whisky cocktails, to a preview of the pretty S/S13 collection, as modelled by Natasha and Lavinia themselves. Princess Eugenie and Chelsy Davy
THE KENSINGTON & CHELSEA MAGAZINE
Olivia Inge and Henry Conway
Poppy Sexton-Wainwright and Cressida Bonas
137
Photography: Richard Young Labrinth performs at the GREY GOOSE Winter Ball
Julien Macdonald
Graham Norton and Guest
David Hasselhoff and Hayley Roberts
Suki Waterhouse
Bonnie Wright Jay Kay
Emeli SandĂŠ performs at the GREY GOOSE Winter Ball
Giles Deacon
LONDON LIVING Elizabeth Hurley
Marina Diamondis
Trudie Styler and host David Furnish
GREY GOOSE
Aston Merrygold of JLS
Eliza Doolittle
WHAT: Grey Goose Winter Ball 2012 WHERE: Battersea Power Station WHO: David Furnish, Kevin Spacey, Elizabeth
Tamara Ecclestone
Hurley, Labrinth, Emeli Sandé and Eliza Doolittle WHY: On Saturday 10 November, the annual GREY GOOSE Winter Ball to benefit the Elton John Aids Foundation took place. The 1950s Côte D’Azur-themed celebration featured a three-course dinner by Hélène Darroze, bespoke auction lots by Ellen Von Unwerth, Gareth Pugh and Karim Rashid, and live performances by Emeli Sandé and Labrinth. The auction saw Jay Kay and Labrinth join esteemed auctioneer Charlie Ross on stage to raise an incredible £690,000 for the Foundation. Lots were donated by Anderson & Low, Karun Jewellery and Hélène Darroze at The Connaught, the Toronto International Film Festival, Labrinth and Raymond Weil. Kevin Spacey
Emeli Sandé
THE KENSINGTON & CHELSEA MAGAZINE
139
The Concierge What is it you require, sir? How may I help, madam? The Concierge is here to help with every need, whim or wish, however great or small APPAREL
Knightsbridge Watches
BEAUTY SALONS AND SPAS
BESPOKE DRESSMAKER
88 Brompton Road, SW3 1ER 08000 337 333 www.knightsbridgewatcheslondon.com
Babylon at Kensington Roof Gardens
Vagheggi Boutique Clinic
99 Kensington High Street, W8 5SA 020 7368 3993 www.roofgardens.virgin.com
Mary Treacy 12 Rickett Street, Fulham SW6 1RU 020 7385 3398 www.marytreacydesigns.co.uk
REPAIRS AND CLEANING Jeeves of Belgravia 271 Kensington High Street 020 7603 0484 www.jeevesofbelgravia.co.uk
VINTAGE WATCH SELLERS
205 King’s Road, SW3 5ED 020 7352 1113 www.vagheggi.co.uk
Watches of Knightsbridge
The Chelsea Day Spa
64 Knightsbridge, SW1X 7JF 020 7590 3034 www.watchesofknightsbridge.com
69a King’s Road, SW3 4NX 020 7351 0911 www.thechelseadayspa.co.uk
FOR THE HOME
Urban Retreat at Harrods
FURNITURE AND SOFT FURNISHINGS
87-135 Brompton Road SW1X 7XL 020 7893 8333 www.urbanretreat.co.uk
Bibendum
Katherine Pooley Sloane Tailors & Dry Cleaners 69 Lower Sloane Street SW1W 8DA 020 7824 8644 www.sloanetailorsanddrycleaners.co.uk
160 Walton Street, SW3 2JL 020 7584 3223 www.katherinepooley.co.uk
Chelsea Brasserie
MEDICAL AND DENTAL SERVICES
Louise Bradley
Chelsea Consulting Rooms 2 Lower Sloane Street, SW1W 8BJ 020 7763 9100 www.chelseaconsultingrooms.com
Chelsea Green Shoe Repairs
Kimbolton Court 117b Fulham Road, SW3 6RL 020 7589 1442 www.louisebradley.co.uk
31 Elystan Street, SW3 3NT 020 7584 0776
Nina Campbell
3 Harrington Gardens, SW7 4JJ 020 7370 4999 www.medicare-francais.co.uk
SHOES REHEELED
Medicare Français
JEWELLERY VALUATION
9 Walton Street, SW3 2JD 020 7225 1011 www.ninacampbell.com
Bourbon Hanby
OKA
151 Sydney Street, SW3 6NT 020 7352 2106 www.bourbonhanby.com
103 Lancaster Road, W11 1QN 020 7792 1425 www.okadirect.com
PRECIOUS PIECES
The Lister Hospital Chelsea Bridge Road SW1W 8RH 020 7730 7733 www.thelisterhospital.com
Tiffany & Co.
Stepevi
The Beresford Clinic
145 Sloane Street, SW1X 9BL 020 7409 2790 www.tiffany.co.uk
274 King’s Road, SW3 5AW 020 7376 7574 www.stepevi.co.uk
2 Lower Grosvenor Place SW1W 0EJ 020 7821 9411 www.drberesford.co.uk
JEWELLERY REPAIR
PAMPERING & WELLBEING
Hawkes and Son
HAIRDRESSERS
50-52 Walton Street, SW3 1RB 020 7589 2523 www.hawkesandson.com
Hari’s
81 Fulham Road, SW3 6RD 020 7581 5817 www.bibendum.co.uk
7-12 Sloane Square, SW1W 8EG 020 7881 5999 www.chelsea-brasserie.co.uk
Daphne’s 110-112 Draycott Avenue SW3 3AE 020 7589 4257 www.daphnes-restaurant.co.uk
Gaucho 89 Sloane Avenue, SW3 3DX 020 7584 9901 www.gauchorestaurants.co.uk
Julie’s Restaurant 135 Portland Road, W11 4LW 020 7229 8331 www.juliesrestaurant.com
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
Cadogan Street Dental Office
Zuma
47 Cadogan Street, SW3 2QJ 020 7581 0811
5 Raphael Street, SW7 1DL 020 7584 1010 www.zumarestaurant.com
HAUTE CUISINE
WATCH REPAIR
305 Brompton Road, SW3 2DY 020 7581 5211 www.harissalon.com
Bar Boulud
Partridges
The Watch Gallery
Richard Ward
129 Fulham Road, SW3 6RT 020 7581 3239 www.thewatchgallery.co.uk
82 Duke of York Square, SW3 4LY 020 7730 1222 www.richardward.com
Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park 66 Knightsbridge, SW1X 7LA 020 7201 3899 www.barboulud.com
2-5 Duke of York Square SW3 4LY 020 7730 7102 www.partridges.co.uk
DINING
DELICATESSENS
THE CONCIERGE
The Grocer on Elgin
Electric House
CHAUFFEURS
6 Elgin Crescent, W11 2HX 020 7221 3844 www.thegroceron.com
191 Portobello Road, W11 2ED 020 7908 9696 www.electrichouse.com
Executive Cars
Mungo & Maud
020 3170 5838 www.executive-cars-london.com
79 Elizabeth Street, SW1W 9PJ www.mungoandmaud.com 020 7022 1207
Wholefoods Market
The Sloane Club
63-97 Kensington High Street W8 5SE 020 7368 4500 www.wholefoodsmarket.com
Lower Sloane Street SW1W 8BS 020 7730 9131 www.sloaneclub.co.uk
CHOCOLATIERS
AIR, LAND & SEA
Crown Security Chauffeurs 0845 901 1471 www.crown-chauffeurs.co.uk
BUSINESS AFFAIRS
89 Lower Sloane Street SW1W 8DA 0845 270 6996 www.artisanduchocolat.com
Avolus Ltd 38 Lombard Road SW11 3RP 020 7978 6506 www.avolus.com
William Curley 198 Ebury Street 020 7730 5522 www.williamcurley.co.uk
DRINKING Boujis
LUXURY CAR SERVICES
43 Thurloe Street, SW7 2LQ 020 7584 2000 www.boujis.com
Belgravia Garage
298 King’s Road, SW3 5UG 020 7352 6500 www.thecadoganarmschelsea.com
Juju 316-318 King’s Road, SW3 5UH 020 7351 5998 www.jujulondon.com
Sending Parcels
LITTLE LUXURIES
272 Kensington High Street W8 6ND 0844 257 0668 www.sendingparcels.com
PRIVATE CHEF The Personal Chef
TRANSLATORS
59 Ritherton Road, SW17 8QE 020 7871 1080 www.thepersonalchef.co.uk
Aplomb Translations
PREMIUM COFFEE AND CIGARS
London Battersea Heliport Bridges Wharf, Battersea SW11 3BE 0844 884 8660 www.batterseahelicopter.com
The Cadogan Arms
Pet Pavilion 60 Gloucester Road, SW7 4QT 020 7584 8848 www.petpavilion.co.uk
COURIERS
HELICOPTER CHARTER L’Artisan Du Chocolat
PETS
74 Chancery Lane WC2A 1AD 020 7831 9444 www.aplombonline.com
Tomtom Cigars and Coffee 63 Elizabeth Street, SW1W 9PP 020 7730 1790 www.tomtom.co.uk
Computer and Technology Help 1 Eaton Mews West Belgravia, SW1W 9ET 020 7235 9900 www.belgraviagarage.com
VIP Car Hire Queen Elizabeth Street SE1 2JE 0870 200 4949 www.vipservices.co.uk
Richard Darsa 78 Cadogan Place, SW1X 9RP 07768 200 551 richard@darsa.net
HOUSEKEEPING & FAMILY HOUSEKEEPING
FINE WINE Handford Fine Wines 105 Old Brompton Road, SW7 3LE 020 7589 6113 www.handford.net Florists
FLOWERS
St. Anne’s Housekeeping
Gilding the Lily
YACHT CHARTER/ SALE
58 Kenway Road, SW5 0RA 020 7370 1359 www.stanneshousekeeping.com
Old Brompton Road, SW7 2NB 020 7584 1950 www.gildingthelilysw7.co.uk
Princess Yachts
CHILDCARE
Only Roses
Imperial Nannies
257 Old Brompton Road, SW5 9HP 020 7373 9595 www.only-roses.com
MEMBERS CLUBS Beaufort House 354 Kings Road, SW3 5UZ 020 7352 2828 www.beauforthousechelsea.co.uk
64 Grosvenor Street W1K 3JH 020 7499 5050 www.princess.co.uk
Chelsea Arts Club
Sunseeker
143 Old Church Street SW3 6EB 020 7376 3311 www.chelseaartsclub.com
36 Davies Street W1K 4NF 020 7355 0980 www.sunseekerlondon.com
THE KENSINGTON & CHELSEA MAGAZINE
17 Radley Mews, W8 6JP 020 7795 6220 nannies@imperialstaff.com
LEATHER GOODS AND ACCESSORIES
Kensington Nannies
Pickett
3 Hornton Place, W8 4LZ 020 7937 3299 www.kensington-nannies.com
149 Sloane Street, SW1X 9BZ 020 7823 5638 www.pickett.co.uk
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Join us December 5th for a Festive Shopping Treat. Late Opening ‘til 8pm
Seasonal Sparkle Buy Use Collect Treasure
Christmas gift ideas display From October through December Fine silver tableware & collectors’ items Modern & vintage jewellery & watches www.thesilvervaults.com
Silver vaults the London
the home of silver shopping
KENSINGTON
& CHELSEA P R O P E RT Y
SHOWCASING THE
finest HOMES & PROPERTY FROM THE BEST ESTATE AGENTS
Market Insight Property prices continue to climb in the borough Image courtesy of Lurot Brand
FEATURED
Estate Agents Beauchamp Estates
Chesterton Humberts
Farleys Residential
www.beauchamp.co.uk
www.chestertonhumberts.com
www.farleysres.com
MAYFAIR 24 Curzon Street W1J 7TF 020 7499 7722
Bective Leslie Marsh
CHELSEA & SOUTH KENSINGTON 60 Sloane Avenue SW3 3DD 020 7594 4740 KENSINGTON CHURCH STREET 62 Kensington Church Street, W8 4BU 020 3040 8445
SOUTH KENSINGTON 44-48 Old Brompton Road SW7 3DY 020 7589 1234
Harpers & Harrison
John Taylor
www.harpersandharrison.co.uk
www.john-taylor.co.uk
KENSINGTON 53 Abingdon Road W8 6AN 020 7938 2311
MAYFAIR 53 Davies Street W1K 5JH 020 3284 1888
Hamptons
Henry & James
Kaye & Carey
www.hamptons.co.uk
www.henryandjames.co.uk
www.kayeandcarey.co.uk
CHELSEA 134 Fulham Road SW10 9PY 020 7717 5291
BELGRAVIA 1 Motcomb Street SW1X 8JX 020 7235 8861
KNIGHTSBRIDGE 4 Yeoman’s Row Brompton Road SW3 2AH 020 7590 0066
HAMPTONS COUNTRY HOUSE
CHELSEA 2 Cale Street SW3 3QU 020 7581 5011
www.bectivelesliemarsh.co.uk CHELSEA 1 Cadogan Street SW3 2PP 020 7589 6677 KENSINGTON 10 Hornton Street W8 4NW 020 7795 4288 NOTTING HILL 205 Westbourne Grove W11 2SB 020 7221 4805 LADBROKE GROVE 126 Ladbroke Grove W10 5NE 020 7221 0330
KENSINGTON & NOTTING HILL 116 Kensington High Street W8 7RW 020 7937 7244 KNIGHTSBRIDGE & BELGRAVIA 31 Lowndes Street SW1X 9HX 020 7235 8090
Crayson www.crayson.com NOTTING HILL 10 Lambton Place W11 2SH 020 7221 1117
Chelsea International www.chelseainternational.co.uk KNIGHTSBRIDGE 14 Basil Street SW3 1AJ 020 7349 9094
Domus Nova www.domusnova.com BAYSWATER 37 Alexander Street W2 5NU 020 7727 1717 NOTTING HILL 17 Kensington Park Road W11 2EU 020 7727 1717
8 Chertsey Street, Surrey GU1 4HD 01483 339740 KENSINGTON 8 Hornton Street W8 4NW 020 7937 9371
Knight Frank John D Wood & Co. www.johndwood.co.uk
KNIGHTSBRIDGE 168 Brompton Road SW3 1HW 020 7584 2044
CHELSEA 9 Cale Street SW3 3QS 020 7352 1484
NOTTING HILL 301 Westbourne Grove W11 2QA 020 7717 5311
HOLLAND PARK 10 Portland Road W11 4LA 020 7727 2233
PADDINGTON 4c Praed Street W2 1JX 020 7717 5313
KENSINGTON 162 Kensington Church Street, W8 4BN 020 7908 1100
PIMLICO & WESTMINSTER 50 Belgrave Road SW1V 1RQ 020 7717 5315
SOUTH KENSINGTON 125 Gloucester Road SW7 4TE 020 7835 0000
SLOANE SQUARE 7 Lower Sloane Street SW1W 8AH 020 7717 5317
www.knightfrank.co.uk BELGRAVIA 82-83 Chester Square SW1W 9JH 020 7881 7722 CHELSEA 352a King’s Road SW3 5UU 020 7349 4300 FULHAM 203 New King’s Road SW6 4SR 020 7751 2400 KENSINGTON 54-56 Kensington Church Street W8 4DB 020 7938 4311 KNIGHTSBRIDGE 60 Sloane Avenue SW3 3DD 020 7591 8600
PROPERTY
NOTTING HILL 298 Westbourne Grove W11 2PS 020 7229 0229
HOLLAND PARK 57 Norland Square W11 4QJ 020 7605 6890
Russell Simpson www.russellsimpson.co.uk
SOUTH KENSINGTON 157 Gloucester Road SW7 4TH 020 7871 4111
London Sotheby’s International Realty www.sothebysrealty.co.uk CHELSEA 62-64 Fulham Road SW3 6HH 020 7808 8540 MAYFAIR 26A Conduit Street W1S 2XY 020 7495 9580
KENSINGTON 9 Kensington Church Street W8 4LF 020 7368 4450 NORTH KENSINGTON 136 Lancaster Road W11 1QU 020 7313 8350 NOTTING HILL 2-6 Kensington Park Road W11 3BU 020 7313 2890
Messila Residential www.messilaresidential.com KNIGHTSBRIDGE 20 Montpelier Street SW7 1HD 0 20 7589 4452
HYDE PARK 37-41 Sussex Place W2 2TH 020 7479 1999 SOUTH KENSINGTON 5 Kynance Place SW7 4QS 020 7590 9955
Marsh & Parsons www.marshandparsons.co.uk
Plaza Estates www.plazaestates.co.uk KNIGHTSBRIDGE 51 Beauchamp Place SW3 1NY 020 7581 7646 MARBLE ARCH 29-31 Edgware Road W2 2JE 020 7724 3100
www.struttandparker.com CHELSEA 43 Cadogan Street SW3 2PR 020 7225 3866
Savills CHELSEA 196-200 Fulham Road SW10 9PN 020 7578 9000 KENSINGTON 145 Kensington Church Street W8 7LP 020 7535 3300 KNIGHTSBRIDGE 188 Brompton Road SW3 1HQ 020 7581 5234
KENSINGTON 103 Kensington Church Street W8 7LN 020 7938 3666 KNIGHTSBRIDGE 66 Sloane Street SW1X 9SH 020 7235 9959
www.winkworth.co.uk KENSINGTON 118 Kensington Church Street, W8 4BH 020 7727 1500 KNIGHTSBRIDGE 289 Brompton Road SW3 2DY 020 7589 6616 NOTTING HILL 178 Westbourne Grove W11 2RH 020 7727 3227 SOUTH KENSINGTON 123a Gloucester Road SW7 4TE 020 7373 5052
NOTTING HILL 303 Westbourne Grove W11 2QA 020 7221 1111
NOTTING HILL 168 Westbourne Grove W11 2RW 020 7727 5750
www.tatesestates.co.uk
SLOANE STREET 139 Sloane Street SW1X 9AY 020 7730 0822
WEST KENSINGTON 135 Hammersmith Road W14 0QL 020 7602 6022
Tates Agents
Proprium www.proprium.co.uk
CHELSEA Rawlings House 2a Milner Street SW3 2PU 020 7591 5570
Strutt & Parker
WEST CHELSEA 140 Fulham Road SW10 9PY 020 7373 1010
www.savills.co.uk
Lurot Brand www.lurotbrand.co.uk
CHELSEA 5 Anderson Street SW3 3LU 020 7225 0277
Winkworth
SLOANE STREET 149 Sloane Street SW1X 9BZ 020 7589 6298
THE KENSINGTON & CHELSEA MAGAZINE
W.A. Ellis www.waellis.co.uk KNIGHTSBRIDGE 174 Brompton Road SW3 1HP 020 7306 1610
145
Reasons why people moved this year* Want to live in a larger or better property Retirement First time buyer Returning to UK Redevelopment Quality of life Other Personal reasons Better quality of property Better town or area Investment New job or job relocation Want to live in a smaller or less expensive property
We helped many people's wishes come true this year. Here's to doing the same in 2013. More than you’re looking for. *Source: Savills Research
sold
sold
sold
Clarendon Road, W11 Guide £8.25 million
Ladbroke Square, W11 Excess £8 million
Victoria Road, W8 Guide £6.25 million
sold
sold
sold
Campden Hill Square, W8 Guide £5.95 million
Lamont Road, SW10 Guide £4.15 million
Onslow Gardens, SW7 Guide £2.95 million
let
let
let
Tasker Lodge, W8 Guide £2,250 per week
Waldron House, SW3 Guide £1,850 per week
The Lancasters, W2 Guide £1,800 per week
These are just a few of the properties we have sold and let for our clients in 2012. To see how we can help with your 2013 wish list, call us on 020 7730 0822 or visit savills.co.uk. Jonathan Hewlett Head of London jhewlett@savills.com
savills.co.uk
1 AN UNMODERNISED, WIDE FRONTED FREEHOLD CHELSEA VILLA limerston street, sw10 Reception room ø kitchen ø 4 bedrooms ø 2 bathrooms ø south-west facing garden ø 171 sq m (1,843 sq ft)
Savills Chelsea Charlie Bubear cbubear@savills.com
020 7578 9000 Guide £2.65 million Freehold
savills.co.uk
1 GENEROUS KENSINGTON HOUSE WITH GREAT POTENTIAL pitt street, w8 Double reception room ø kitchen/dining room ø 4 double bedrooms ø 2 bathrooms ø 2nd kitchenette ø top floor studio room with French windows to small terrace ø lower ground floor formally used as a dark room with potential to convert to a media room and utility room ø 270 sq m (2,904 sq ft) Guide £2.95 million Freehold
Savills Kensington Kit Allen kallen@savills.com
020 7535 3300
savills.co.uk
1 A CHARMING GRADE II LISTED REGENCY HOUSE IN NEED OF REFURBISHMENT park walk, sw10 Entrance hall ø 2 reception rooms ø kitchen ø master bedroom with en suite bathroom ø 2 further bedrooms ø wet room ø guest cloakroom ø utility room ø garden ø 164 sq m (1,761 sq ft)
Guide £2.95 million Freehold
Savills Chelsea Henry Reid hreid@savills.com
020 7578 9000
savills.co.uk
1 A REFURBISHED HOUSE IN SOUGHT-AFTER SECURE PRIVATE MEWS roland way, sw3 First floor drawing room ø open plan kitchen/living room ø master bedroom suite ø 2nd bedroom with separate shower room ø gym/cinema with shower room ø roof terrace ø parking outside the house ø 191 sq m (2,055 sq ft) Guide £3.995 million Freehold
Savills Knightsbridge
Savills Chelsea
Matthew Morton-Smith mmsmith@savills.com
Henry Reid hreid@savills.com
020 7581 5234
020 7578 9000
savills.co.uk
1 SOUTH-FACING APARTMENT WITH RESIDENT PORTER st. albans mansion, w8 Entrance hall ø reception room ø family/TV room ø kitchen/dining room ø master bedroom suite ø 2 further bedrooms ø further bathroom ø study/bedroom 4 ø guest cloakroom/utility room ø resident porter ø lift ø 194 sq m (2,089 sq ft)
Guide £3.85 million Leasehold, approximately 122 years remaining
Savills Kensington Stephen Holmes sholmes@savills.com
020 7535 3300
savills.co.uk
1 STUNNING LUXURY PENTHOUSE IN PRIME NOTTING HILL westbourne grove, w11 Drawing room with dining area ø study/TV room ø kitchen ø master bedroom suite with dressing room ø 3 further bedroom suites ø guest cloakroom ø utility room ø 2 roof terraces ø additional storage ø direct lift access ø 320 sq m (3,446 sq ft) Guide £7.95 million Freehold
Savills Notting Hill Oliver Lurot olurot@savills.com
020 7727 5750
savills.co.uk
1 SOUTH-FACING MAISONETTE OVERLOOKING COMMUNAL GARDENS cornwall gardens, sw7 Entrance hall ø drawing room ø dining room ø kitchen ø 3 bedroom suites ø shower room ø 2 terraces ø access to communal gardens ø 170 sq m (1,829 sq ft) Guide £2.75 million Leasehold, a new 250 year lease will be granted
Savills Kensington
Cluttons
Stephen Holmes sholmes@savills.com
Charlie Noel-Buxton Chelsea@cluttons.com
020 7535 3300
020 7584 1771
savills.co.uk
1 BEAUTIFUL APARTMENT WITH PORTER AND PARKING ON PRIVATE ROAD hyde park gate, sw7 Entrance hall ø reception/dining room ø kitchen ø master bedroom suite ø guest bedroom suite ø 3rd bedroom ø further shower room ø patio ø porter ø nonreserved parking ø 147 sq m (1,582 sq ft)
Guide £2.15 million Leasehold, approximately 95 years remaining plus Share of Freehold
Savills Kensington Thomas Holcroft tholcroft@savills.com
020 7535 3300
savills.co.uk
1 AN IMPRESSIVE KENSINGTON MAISONETTE WITH A ROOF TERRACE stafford terrace, w8 3 bedrooms ø reception room ø study ø kitchen/dining room ø 3 bathrooms ø guest cloakroom ø roof terrace ø 183 sq m (1,977 sq ft)
Savills Kensington Monika Scott mkscott@savills.com
020 7535 3333 £3,300 per week Unfurnished
savills.co.uk
1 A CLASSIC FAMILY HOUSE OVERLOOKING A PRETTY GARDEN SQUARE campden hill square, w8 5 bedrooms ø 3 reception rooms ø kitchen/breakfast room ø 4 bathrooms ø guest cloakroom ø utility room ø roof terrace ø garden ø access to communal gardens ø 373 sq m (4,034 sq ft)
£4,950 per week Unfurnished
Savills Kensington Isabel Lacey ilacey@savills.com
020 7535 3333
savills.co.uk
1 AN ATTRACTIVE THREE BEDROOM MAISONETTE portland road, w11 3 double bedrooms ø open plan kitchen/reception room ø 2 bathrooms ø guest cloakroom ø roof terrace ø balcony ø 102 sq m (1,098 sq ft)
Savills Notting Hill Nik Dennis ndennis@savills.com
020 7727 5751 £1,250 per week Flexible furnishings
Open Evening Tuesday 4 December 4:30 pm — 7:30pm — Savills Chelsea 196-200 Fulham Road London SW10 9PN RSVP: sgwilliam@savills.com Swiss properties clockwise from top right: Zermatt: duplex penthouse apartment Chf 3.75 million. Grimentz: chalets and apartments from Chf 575,000. Veysonnaz: ski-in, ski-out chalets from Chf 1.79 million. Nendaz: 2–5 bedroom apartments from Chf 695,000.
Contact: UK +44 (0)20 7016 3740 CH +41 (0)27 323 7777 Online: www.alpinehomesintl.com switzerland@alpinehomesintl.com
Stamp Duty Land Tax The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea shoulders the highest stamp duty tax bill, after Westminster, in the whole of the UK. OLIVIA SHARPE investigates
Redcliffe Mews
Oakley Street
Cathcart Road
Petersham House
ACCORDING TO GLOBAL real estate services provider, Savills, owners of Britain’s most expensive homes paid around a fifth of the £4.22 billion stamp duty land tax last year, with receipts weighted heavily towards London and the South East. The firm’s analysis of recently released 20112012 figures from Revenue & Customs shows the disproportionately high contribution made by the wealthiest homeowners, thereby flying in the face of popular opinion that such owners do not pay their fair share. Five inner London boroughs – Westminster, Kensington & Chelsea, Wandsworth, Camden and Hammersmith & Fulham – accounted for 20 per cent of total receipts, with home buyers paying a total of £828 million. Kensington and Chelsea contributed to 4,160 total sales last year over £2 million, to a value of £6,121 million. This meant that the borough contributed to 6.37 per cent of the total stamp duty takings by the government in the past year, the second highest in all of the UK. It also has the highest “average rate of average stamp duty rate paid across the location” in the whole country at 4.4 per cent. Head of Savills Chelsea Charlie Bubear comments: “It is no surprise that we see such high tax revenue coming out of Kensington and Chelsea. These few square miles of London are home to some of the most expensive and desirable property in the capital, with an incredibly diverse range of housing. Investment is driven by both UK buyers coming to the area from other areas of London, attracted by the quality of life and culture which the
area offers, and foreign buyers are drawn to prime central London because of its relative financial stability and safe haven status.” Despite the large tax receipts traditionally generated by sales in Kensington and Chelsea, Bubear explains that the market has certainly been affected by the stamp duty hike. Across prime central London, Savills has seen transactions in the £2 million to £2.25 million bracket, just above the new 7 per cent stamp duty threshold, drop by 29 per cent, while the market has seen a 37 per cent increase in activity under £2 million. In the local market, however, the company has found that it remains relatively unchanged when it steps above the £2.25 million mark. Therefore, as Bubear points out, there is undoubtedly a degree of price sensitivity in the market; however, the best quality property at the higher end of the market is still trading well. Director of Savills Research Lucian Cook observes: “As the debate continues regarding the best way to tax high value property, these figures demonstrate the significant contribution already being made by prime central London and other high value markets to the Treasury’s coffers. Politics aside, in the current economy, the Treasury has a strong incentive for these markets to remain healthy.” Savills Chelsea, 196-200 Fulham Road, SW10 9PN 020 7578 9000; www.savills.co.uk
PROPERTY
Market Insight GRAINNE GILMORE, head of UK residential research at Knight Frank, examines the drivers behind the strong central London market as property prices in Kensington and Chelsea continue to climb PRIME PROPERTY PRICES in Kensington and Chelsea rose again in October, mirroring the trend across all prime central London areas. In fact, luxury home prices across prime central London are up 2 per cent on the quarter and 10.1 per cent on the year. This increase in values has been driven by the demand for homes in central London by UK and overseas buyers. The capital’s ‘safe-haven’ status has been further augmented by the deterioration of the economic situation in the Eurozone, and there is little sign that the crisis is set to end any time soon. While initial GDP figures showed that the UK emerged from recession in Q3, the economic data from Germany, the powerhouse economy of Europe, was more worrying, indicating that the country may struggle to avoid slipping into recession in the coming months. This will place the fragile Eurozone under more pressure. As such, it is perhaps not surprising that wealthy investors from Europe remain keen to diversify their assets away from the Euro. The widespread discussion about additional wealth taxes in some countries – France and Spain have already introduced an additional levy on high earners – has also boosted interest in London property among high net worth individuals from the region. European buyers have always been a key feature of the Kensington and Chelsea market and this is well illustrated in Figure 1 which shows that prospective buyers from France, Germany, Spain and Italy were among the top ten nationalities searching for prime London property in Kensington and Chelsea on Knight Frank’s global property website in the three months to the end of September. Prices in Kensington and Chelsea have climbed by 11.7 per cent and 7.8 per cent respectively over the last year and activity remains strong with a rise in the number of potential new buyers registering their interest over the last six months compared to the same period last year. It is notable that domestic tax changes (the increase in stamp duty for £2 million+ homes from 5 per cent to 7 per cent) are also having an effect on the market as across London prices in the sub-£2 million market, such as those currently on the market in Argyll Mansions (£1,325,000) and Stanhope Gardens (£1,495,000), are growing more strongly than any other price band. For more details on these properties, contact Knight Frank.
Nationalities of searches for prime properties in Kensington and Chelsea
United Kingdom
Australia
United States
Canada
Russian Federation
Ireland
Spain
Switzerland
Germany
Sweden
France
Other
Italy
Figure 1. Source: Knight Frank Residential Research
www.globalbriefing.knightfrank.com Argyll Mansions
THE KENSINGTON & CHELSEA MAGAZINE
Stanhope Gardens
161
Knight Frank
Cranley Mews, South Kensington SW7 Unmodernised Mews house with garage
An unmodernised freehold mews house, requiring complete renovation, situated on the west side of this pretty South Kensington Mews. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, kitchen, reception room, patio, garage. Approximately 116 sq m (1,252 sq ft) Freehold Guide price: ÂŁ1,650,000 (SLA120397)
KnightFrank.co.uk/South-Kensington southkensington@knightfrank.com 020 3641 6122 KnightFrank.co.uk/Knightsbridge knightsbridge@knightfrank.com 020 3641 5913
Knight Frank
Old Church Street, Chelsea SW3
Three bedroom house with parking and porter A rarely available three bedroom house that is part of the highly regarded Painter’s Yard development in the heart of Old Chelsea. Master bedroom with en suite bathroom, 2 further bedrooms, bathroom, reception room, dining room, kitchen, courtyard, porter, parking. Approximately 153 sq m (1,650 sq ft) Share of freehold Guide price: £2,950,000
(CHL120115)
KnightFrank.co.uk/Chelsea chelsea@knightfrank.com 020 3641 5903 Joint agent: Savills knightsbridge@savills.com 020 7581 5234
Knight Frank
Tite Street, Chelsea SW3 Five bedroom Chelsea home
A spacious, low-built family house presented in good condition throughout. The house offers the potential to extend. Master bedroom with en suite bathroom and dressing area, second bedroom suite, three further bedrooms, family bathroom, kitchen, breakfast room, reception room, games room, cloakroom, roof terrace, garage. Approximately 291 sq m (3,134 sq ft) Freehold Guide price: ÂŁ5,200,000 (SLA070627)
KnightFrank.co.uk/Knightsbridge knightsbridge@knightfrank.com 020 3641 5913 Joint agent: Aylesford International sales@aylesford.com 020 7351 2383
Knight Frank
Wellington Square, Chelsea SW3 Garden square house
An impressive ‘Key’ house located in the middle of a highly sought after white stucco garden square in Chelsea. Master bedroom suite, 4 further bedrooms, 2 further bath/shower rooms, kitchen, dining room, double reception room, study, utility, cloakroom, garden. Approximately 244 sq m (2,633 sq ft) Freehold Guide price: £6,150,000 (SLA120382)
KnightFrank.co.uk/Knightsbridge knightsbridge@knightfrank.com 020 3641 5913
Knight Frank
Palace Gardens Terrace, Kensington W8 A well proportioned triplex with private garden
This meticulous three bedroom apartment has been recently constructed behind the original façade, seamlessly integrating technology into design, moulding volume and light to create a luxury of space. 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, reception room, kitchen/ dining room, study, cinema room, wine cellar, garden, access to flat roof. Approximately 270 sq m (2,911 sq ft) Share of freehold Guide price: £5,950,000 (KEN120043)
KnightFrank.co.uk/Kensington kens@knightfrank.com 020 7938 4311
Knight Frank
Hollywood Road, Chelsea SW10 House with terrace, garage and porter
This is the largest and widest house in this portered development and benefits from both a balcony and terrace. 2 bedroom en suites, 2 further bedrooms, bathroom, reception room, dining room, kitchen, study/bedroom 5, cloakroom, balcony, terrace, garage, parking, porter. Approximately 253 sq m (2,727 sq ft) Freehold Guide price: ÂŁ3,500,000 (CHL120085)
KnightFrank.co.uk/Chelsea chelsea@knightfrank.com 020 3641 5903
Knight Frank
Lennox Gardens, Knightsbridge SW1X
Contemporary penthouse overlooking garden square The flat is interior designed to a very high standard with air conditioning and direct lift access. 3 double bedrooms, en suite bathroom, shower room, large reception/dining room, kitchen, entrance hall, cloakroom and access to square gardens. Approximately 139 sq m (1,497 sq ft) Available furnished Guide price: ÂŁ2,950 per week
(KNQ123014)
Knightsbridge Lettings KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings knightsbridgelettings@knightfrank.com 020 3641 6019
Knight Frank Redcliffe Square, Chelsea SW10
Unique three bedroom house This individual property is arranged around a private central coutyard and further benefits from garden square access. 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, reception room, kitchen, courtyard. Approximately 94.9 sq m (1,021 sq ft) Available furnished Guide price: ÂŁ1,300 per week
Chelsea Lettings KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings chelsealettings@knightfrank.com 020 3641 6022 (CHQ170074)
Gloucester Road, South Kensington SW7 Spacious family house
This immaculate four bedroom house is arranged over four floors and benefits from a private rear garden and underfloor heating. 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, kitchen, reception room, dining room, garden. Approximately 147 sq m (1,580 sq ft) Available furnished/unfurnished Guide price: ÂŁ1,950 per week
South Kensington Lettings KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings southkenlettings@knightfrank.com 020 3641 6025 (SKQ160780)
Knight Frank
40 years of performances c/o W11 Opera for young people
PROUD SUPPORTERS OF W11 OPERA Over 30 amazing shows c/o numerous young talents
As the world’s largest privately owned property agency and consultancy, Knight Frank are trusted by clients around the globe. We are passionate about property and professional in everything we do so it was a natural fit to become the proud sponsors of W11 Opera for Young People*. Their passion for opera and music, developing children’s talents in a unique way, coupled with our passion for property has been a huge success. As we celebrate our 10th anniversary of sponsorship we look forward to supporting them for many years to come. Notting Hill – 020 7229 0229 Kensington – 020 7938 4311
KnightFrank.co.uk/FranklySpeaking 10 years of sponsorship c/o Knight Frank Notting Hill and Kensington
281541_KF_TheHillMag_Dec12.indd 1
*To find out more about W11 Opera visit www.w11opera.org
07/11/2012 17:54
17:54
Knight Frank
One star property...
winkworth.co.uk
...four prime central London agents...
...a further 85 offices across the UK, 55 in London alone...
...one sold property.
OUR LONDON AND NATIONAL NETWORK IS SOMETHING TO CELEBRATE. A festive message from us At this time of year, we imagine you are busy planning for the festive period. Selling your home is possibly the last thing on your mind. But whatever the time of year, our four offices in the Royal borough Kensington & Chelsea, are sharing both properties and buyers and giving just that little bit extra when it comes to service. We love our very special patch of London. We are immersed in it and we know every nook and cranny. And we take the same approach with every home that we market. Do get in touch with us when the time is right for you and we’ll tell you more. Winkworth. See things differently.
Winkworth Kensington
Winkworth Knightsbridge & Chelsea
020 7727 1500 | kensington@winkworth.co.uk
020 7589 6616 | knightsbridge@winkworth.co.uk
Winkworth Notting Hill
Winkworth South Kensington
020 7727 3227 | nottinghill@winkworth.co.uk
020 7373 5052 | southkensington@winkworth.co.uk
BROMPTON SQUARE SW3 ÂŁ2,450,000 LEASEHOLD Located at the quiet end of this prestigious garden square, moments from Knightsbridge and the world famous Harrods, this well presented second and third floor maisonette features excellent aspects over the communal gardens.
Three Bedrooms | Two Receptions | Two Bathrooms | Communal Gardens
THE WHOLE WINKWORTH NETWORK, NOW IN YOUR POCKET Promo area, staff photos etc
Scan this code to download the Winkworth iPhone app
020 7727 6616 3227| |knightsbridge@winkworth.co.uk nottinghill@winkworth.co.uk| | 020 7589
winkworth.co.uk/notting-hill winkworth.co.uk/knightsbridge
REMBRANDT CLOSE SW1 ÂŁ1,495 PER WEEK FURNISHED/UNFURNISHED This post-war property in Rembrandt Close is a three storey modern house located within a private road moments from Sloane Square and with the additional benefit of a private garage.
Four Bedrooms | One Reception | Four Bathrooms | One Reception | Garage
THE WHOLE WINKWORTH NETWORK, NOW IN YOUR POCKET Promo area, staff photos etc
Scan this code to download the Winkworth iPhone app
0207589 77276616 3227| knightsbridge@winkworth.co.uk | nottinghill@winkworth.co.uk| | 020
winkworth.co.uk/notting-hill winkworth.co.uk/knightsbridge
BRAMHAM GARDENS, SW5 POA SHARE OF FREEHOLD A quite exceptional laterally arranged five bedroom flat (with a lift) on the third floor of this prominent period conversion located in the heart of The Bolton’s Conservation Area. This stunning triple aspect apartment occupies the entire width and depth of this south facing red brick conversion and extends to an impressive 2150sq/ft (200sq/m) of accommodation on one floor only. Large Entrance Hall | Reception Room | Kitchen/Breakfast Room | Master Bedroom Suite with Walk-in Wardrobe and Bath/Shower Room | Four Further Bedrooms | Ensuite Shower Room | Bathroom | Guest Cloakroom | Extensive Storage | Lift | Access to Communal Gardens (STTUC)
THE WHOLE WINKWORTH NETWORK, NOW IN YOUR POCKET Promo area, staff photos etc
Scan this code to download the Winkworth iPhone app
020 7727 5052 3227| |southkensington@winkworth.co.uk nottinghill@winkworth.co.uk | | 020 7373
winkworth.co.uk/notting-hill winkworth.co.uk/southkensington
LOTS ROAD, LONDON, SW10 ÂŁ1,750,000 FREEHOLD An outstanding example of one of the family houses on Lots Road that is blessed with far reaching Southerly views over the river. Extending to 1814 sq/ ft (168.52sq/m) the current owners have subjected the property to an intense program of refurbishment and have succeeded in fusing classical features with cool, contemporary lines. Family Kitchen/Dining Room | Garden | Separate Reception Room | Master Bedroom | Two Further Bedrooms | Study | Southerly River Views
THE WHOLE WINKWORTH NETWORK, NOW IN YOUR POCKET Promo area, staff photos etc
Scan this code to download the Winkworth iPhone app
0207373 77275052 3227| southkensington@winkworth.co.uk | nottinghill@winkworth.co.uk | | 020
winkworth.co.uk/notting-hill winkworth.co.uk/southkensington
AIRLIE GARDENS, W8 PRICE ON APPLICATION SHARE OF FREEHOLD An impressive two bedroom flat situated on the raised ground floor of a grand Victorian building. The property has a large drawing room with a high ceiling and French windows leading directly onto a beautifully maintained communal garden.
Entrance Hall | Drawing Room | Mezzanine Study | Kitchen | Two Bedrooms | Two En-suite Bathrooms | Cloakroom | Direct Access to Communal Gardens
THE WHOLE WINKWORTH NETWORK, NOW IN YOUR POCKET Promo area, staff photos etc
Scan this code to download the Winkworth iPhone app
020 7727 1500 3227| |kensington@winkworth.co.uk nottinghill@winkworth.co.uk 020 7727 | |
winkworth.co.uk/notting-hill winkworth.co.uk/kensington
HORNTON STREET, W8 ÂŁ6,950,000 FREEHOLD A large Victorian house (404 sq m/4353 sq ft) which has been converted into four refurbished units. There is a three bedroom maisonette on the raised and lower ground floors, two one bedroom flats on the first and second floors and a three bedroom upper maisonette situated on the third and fourth floors. There are communal gardens to the rear of the property to which the lower maisonette has direct access. Three Bedroom Lower Maisonette | One Bedroom First Floor Flat | One Bedroom Second Floor Flat | Three Bedroom Upper Maisonette | Communal Garden | Refurbished
THE WHOLE WINKWORTH NETWORK, NOW IN YOUR POCKET Promo area, staff photos etc
Scan this code to download the Winkworth iPhone app
0207727 77271500 3227| kensington@winkworth.co.uk | nottinghill@winkworth.co.uk 020 | |
winkworth.co.uk/notting-hill winkworth.co.uk/kensington
WESTBOURNE PARK ROAD, W2 ÂŁ2,650,000 FREEHOLD A beautifully presented, bow fronted, semi-detached house with attractive gardens to the front and rear. Wonderful double reception over the raised ground floor and the perfect open plan kitchen living space on the lower ground with excellent natural light, opening to gardens both front and back. A stunning home, perfect for a couple or young family. 3 Bedrooms | 1 Reception | 2 Bathrooms | Terraced | House | 2070 approx sq ft
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Scan this code to download the Winkworth iPhone app
020 7727 3227 3227| |nottinghill@winkworth.co.uk nottinghill@winkworth.co.uk | 020 7727 |
winkworth.co.uk/notting-hill winkworth.co.uk/nottinghill
PRINCES MEWS, W2 ÂŁ1,800,000 FREEHOLD A lovely three storey mews house with expansive open living space over the ground and first floors and two bedrooms, two bathrooms above. Planning permission has been granted to create an additional floor beneath the house and the house further benefits from access to beautiful communal gardens.
2 Bedrooms | 1 Reception | 2 Bathrooms | Terraced | House | 1352 Approx Sq ft
THE WHOLE WINKWORTH NETWORK, NOW IN YOUR POCKET Promo area, staff photos etc
Scan this code to download the Winkworth iPhone app
0207727 77273227 3227| nottinghill@winkworth.co.uk | nottinghill@winkworth.co.uk | 020 |
winkworth.co.uk/notting-hill winkworth.co.uk/nottinghill
To make sure they get the best service, wise men go to Crayson. We didn’t open our doors to be like everyone else. We entered a category in crisis, crying out for new agency. With the energy, the drive (and the nerve) to shake things up. At the end of our second year, we wish to thank everyone who has been wise enough to have instructed us. Who have profited from a fresher, more intelligent approach to both selling and buying. Who have benefitted from an uncompromised service. Who are you? Why not drop in for a glass of mulled wine and a festive mince pie. We would love to meet you.
hello@crayson.com T 020 7221 1117 10 Lambton Place London W11 2SH
Ladbroke Road, Notting Hill W11 An early Victorian stucco-fronted house. Chic, immaculate – and right at the heart of Notting Hill This house was completely rejuvenated by the current owner, in a clean Italian contemporary style. The bespoke joinery, door and window architraves, built-in furniture and banisters have all been immaculately crafted, on-site, in wenge hardwood by specialist yacht joiners.
Reception room Kitchen / dining room Master bedroom suite Three further bedrooms, two further bathrooms Study Cloakroom & laundry Front and rear gardens 2,036 sq ft / 189.1 sq m Guide Price ÂŁ3.6 million Freehold
Joint Sole Agents Crayson 020 7221 1117 hello@crayson.com Knight Frank 020 7229 0229
Portland Road, Holland Park W11 A well-organised Victorian family house set on the mid-section of this charming road Designed originally for a professional family with staff by its Victorian architect, this house now accommodates the more modern needs of a young family. The lower ground floor has been completely opened up to provide perfect play areas for children by day and adults by night, with great entertaining space and plenty of storage.
Three reception rooms Kitchen / dining / family room Study Master bedroom suite Three further bedrooms & one further bathroom Terrace Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea 1999 sq ft / 185.7 sq m (vault included) Guide Price ÂŁ3.25m million Freehold
Sole Agent hello@crayson.com T 020 7221 1117 10 Lambton Place London W11 2SH
Lennox Gardens, Knightsbridge SW1X • 2 Bedrooms
• Kitchen
• 1 Bathroom (en suite)
• Use of terrace (not demised)
• 1 Shower room
• Approx. 1,527 sq ft (141 sq m)
• Double reception room
“ An impressive first floor west-facing flat overlooking the gardens”
Guide price £3,700,000 Leasehold with 93 years remaining
For more information call Daniel Wiggin on 020 7306 1610 or email dwiggin@waellis.co.uk
W.A.Ellis LLP 174 Brompton Road London SW3 1HP
waellis.co.uk
K&
Festive cheer meets a brilliant New Year. From “Away in a Manger” to “Auld Lang Syne” we believe in looking after you every step of the way. To make the most of our expertise, why not pop in or give us a call on 020 7306 1600. W.A.Ellis The best of both worlds
Follow us on twitter @waellis to keep up to date. waellis.co.uk
K&CMagWAEllisChristmasAd1.indd 1
06/11/2012 16:39
Ennismore Gardens Mews, Knightsbridge SW7 • 4 Bedrooms
• Kitchen / breakfast room
• 3 Bathrooms
• Study
• Guest cloakroom
• Roof terrace
• Double reception room
• Approx. 1,995 sq ft (185 sq m)
“ A beautifully presented house in this quiet mews in the heart of Knightsbridge”
£2,550 per week Furnished / unfurnished
For more information call David Mills on 020 7306 1630 or email dmills@waellis.co.uk
W.A.Ellis LLP 174 Brompton Road London SW3 1HP
waellis.co.uk
Clabon Mews, Knightsbridge SW1X • 4 bedrooms
• Integral garage
• 3 bathrooms
• 2 roof terraces
• First floor drawing room
• Approx. 2,112 sq ft (196.2 sq m)
• Kitchen / dining room
“ A beautifully presented four bedroom freehold house located behind Cadogan Square”
Guide price £5,500,000 Freehold
For more information call Robert Lewis on 020 7306 1620 or email rlewis@waellis.co.uk
W.A.Ellis LLP 174 Brompton Road London SW3 1HP
waellis.co.uk
Stafford Terrace, Kensington W8 • 3 Bedrooms
• Kitchen / dining room
• 3 Bathrooms
• Study
• Guest cloakroom
• Terrace
• Drawing room
• Approx. 1,855 sq ft (172 sq m)
“ A newly refurbished and interior designed apartment located just off High Street Kensington”
£3,300 per week Furnished
For more information call Lucy Morton on 020 7306 1630 or email lmorton@waellis.co.uk
W.A.Ellis LLP 174 Brompton Road London SW3 1HP
waellis.co.uk
Trevor Place, Knightsbridge, SW7 • 5 Bedrooms
• Dining room
• 2 Bathrooms (1 en suite)
• Kitchen
• 1 Shower room
• Patio
• Separate WC
• Approx. 2,070 sq ft (192 sq m)
• Drawing room
“ A well arranged and bright house in good condition and tastefully decorated throughout”
Guide price £4,325,000 Freehold
For more information call Richard Barber on 020 7306 1620 or email rbarber@waellis.co.uk
W.A.Ellis LLP 174 Brompton Road London SW3 1HP
waellis.co.uk
HOT PROPERTY:
Elystan Place, SW3
Elegant and contemporary house with one of London’s most exclusive addresses
SITUATED OVERLOOKING the peaceful Chelsea Green and on the corner of Elystan Place and Markham Street, this unique double-fronted house is full of character and charm, offering more than 2,500 square feet of flexible living accommodation over just four floors. Set back from the road and refurbished to an extremely high standard in recent years to include air conditioning and Sonos speakers throughout, the property provides excellent entertaining space for its inhabitants. There is an open plan kitchen and dining room with a seating area on the ground floor and a bright drawing room with excellent ceiling height on the lower
ground floor. The master bedroom occupies the first floor of the house along with a large en-suite bathroom and dressing area. The house comprises three further bedrooms and bathrooms along with a superb roof terrace and staff accommodation that has separate street access. Elystan Place is discreetly situated moments from the King’s Road, with its world-renowned array of shops and restaurants, and is conveniently situated a short walk from Sloane Square underground station. www.russellsimpson.co.uk, www.jackson-stops.co.uk
PROPERTY
Elystan Place, SW3 ÂŁ5.35 million
020 7581 5881 chelsea@jackson-stops.co.uk
THE KENSINGTON & CHELSEA MAGAZINE
020 7225 0277 arussell@russellsimpson.co.uk
195
HALSEY MEWS, LONDON. SW3 SHARE OF FREEHOLD FOUR BEDROOMS GROSS INTERNAL AREA: 2217 SQ FT/ 206 SQ M
ÂŁ2,975,000 stc Four bedrooms, four bathrooms, kitchen, large reception, playroom, terrace, conservatory, two parking spaces. Well presented and spacious four bedroom modern house on three floors. The house is approached through electronic gates into a courtyard area and benefits from two large reception rooms, a family kitchen / breakfast room and a conservatory. The four bedrooms are all on one floor and have two en suite bathrooms and a shower room.
There is the added benefit of air conditioning and a carport for two cars. It would be ideal as a pied a terre or for a family with young children. Halsey Mews is a gated courtyard mews shared with only one other house and is ideally located for the extensive facilities of both Sloane Square, South Kensington and Knightsbridge.
CHELSEA OFFICE 2 Cale Street, London SW3 3QU +44 (0)20 7581 5011 chelseaoffice@henryandjames.co.uk
henryandjames.co.uk
CATHCART ROAD, LONDON. SW10 LEASEHOLD: APPROX 85 YEARS REMAINING TWO BEDROOMS GROSS INTERNAL AREA: 1,259 SQ FT/ 117 SQ M
ÂŁ1,250,000 stc Two bedrooms, One bathroom, Large reception room, Kitchen, Dining room. A rare opportunity to purchase a light and spacious unmodernised two bedroom maisonette on the second and third floors of this handsome Victorian house. The apartment benefits from a good south facing reception room with a separate dining area, two well proportioned double bedrooms, bathroom and space to create a second.
Cathcart Road is an attractive street in the heart of Chelsea SW10 and benefits from the shopping and transport facilities of the Fulham Road with Earls Court underground station nearby.
CHELSEA OFFICE 2 Cale Street, London SW3 3QU +44 (0)20 7581 5011 chelseaoffice@henryandjames.co.uk
henryandjames.co.uk
PRINCE OF WALES TERRACE, LONDON. W8 W8 PRINCE OF WALES TERRACE, LONDON. NCE OF WALES TERRACE, LONDON. W8 TWO BEDROOMS TWO BEDROOMS FURNISHED FURNISHED
TWO BEDROOMS FURNISHED
£675£675
£675
PER WEEK PERstc WEEK stc
PER WEEK stc
HALSEY
SHA F GROSS INTERNA
£
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CHELSEA OFFICEOFFICE CHELSEA CHELSEA OFFICE
2 Cale Street, London 3QUSW3 3QU 2 Cale Street,SW3 London
2 Cale Street, London SW3 3QU
+44 (0)20+44 7581 5011 chelseaoffice@henryandjames.co.uk (0)20 7581 5011 chelseaoffice@henryandjames.co.uk
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+44 (0)20 7581 5011 chelseaoffice@henryandjames.co.uk
henryandjames.co.uk henryandjames.co.uk henryandjames.co.uk
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+44 (0)20 7581 50
CADOGAN SQUARE, LONDON. SW3 TWO BEDROOMS FURNISHED
ÂŁ1,650
PER WEEK stc Two double bedrooms, Two bathrooms, Reception room, Kitchen with dining room, Patio, Roof terrace. The apartment has exceptional outside space in the form of a roof terrace and patio garden as well as access to the communal gardens. Furnished in a contemporary style and neutrally decorated throughout, the property has great reception space with wood flooring and high ceilings. Further accommodation comprises master bedroom with
en- suite bathroom, double bedroom with direct access to the sunny roof terrace, kitchen with a dining area and second bathroom. The property is professionally managed and has a resident housekeeper and will be available furnished from the beginning of January.
CHELSEA OFFICE 2 Cale Street, London SW3 3QU +44 (0)20 7581 5011 chelseaoffice@henryandjames.co.uk
henryandjames.co.uk
PRINCES MEWS, W2 Designed and built by the current owner and Paper Project Architects, this recently completed three bedroom mews house has had no expense spared. Reception room, open-plan kitchen/ dining room, master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, 2 further bedrooms, shower room with separate WC, guest cloakroom.
Freehold ÂŁ2,650,000 STC Hyde Park Office 020 7479 1999
CORNWALL MEWS SOUTH, SW7 A bright and airy south facing two bedroom mews flat in this popular South Kensington Mews. The property has been completely refurbished throughout and befits from a small private patio. Reception room, kitchen, master bedroom with en suite bathroom, 2nd bedroom, shower room, laundry room, small patio.
Share of Freehold ÂŁ1,295,000 STC South Kensington Office 020 7590 9955
@Lurotbrand @LurotbrandSales @LurotBrandLets
QUEEN’S GATE MEWS, SW7 A charming two floor house with a westerly aspect in the quieter culde-sac section of this stunning South Kensington mews. Currently arranged as a two bedroom house with a study, the accommodation could easily be arranged to provide three bedrooms. Reception room, kitchen, 2 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en-suite), study/ bedroom 3, cloakroom, garage and patio.
Freehold £2,450,000 STC South Kensington Office 020 7590 9955
LEXHAM MEWS, W8 A delightful and wide two storey two bedroom mews house with a frontage of 33 feet. At it’s deepest the house is 16’6 and narrowing to just 4’3 which gives the house some unusually shaped rooms. Reception room, kitchen/breakfast room, 2 bedrooms, bathroom.
Leasehold £1,150,000 STC South Kensington Office 020 7590 9955
www.lurotbrand.co.uk
GROSVENOR CRESCENT MEWS, SW1
as previously presented
This beautifully presented two storey mews house provides excellent living space and is located at the end of this exclusive private mews in Belgravia. Double reception room, kitchen, master bedroom with en-suite bathroom and separate dressing area, double bedroom, bathroom and single bedroom/ study, private parking space.
£2,400 per week Furnished South Kensington Office 020 7590 9955
MANSON MEWS, SW7 A brand newly rebuilt and refurbished mews house – very light and bright with wooden floors throughout. Top floor reception with balcony/double bedroom 4, ground floor reception/ dining room with fully fitted open-plan kitchen, 3 double bedrooms, family bathroom with separate shower, shower room, cloakroom, integral single garage. Wooden floors throughout.
£1,500 per week Unfurnished South Kensington Office 020 7590 9955
@Lurotbrand @LurotbrandSales @LurotBrandLets
EAGLE PLACE, SW7 Smart, spacious double-aspect contemporary house in a private gated mews, with plenty of reception space and well-appointed bedrooms. Reception, dining room leading to patio, fully fitted kitchen, master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, 2nd double bedroom with en-suite bathroom, 2 further double bedrooms, bathroom 3, integral single garage, parking for 1 car
ÂŁ1,925 per week Un/furnished South Kensington Office 020 7590 9955
HOLLAND PARK MEWS, W11 This spacious mews house is an eclectic mix of the contemporary and traditional with exposed vaulted ceilings, a vibrant mosaic fireplace and beautiful kitchen. 1st floor reception room, ground floor fully-fitted open-plan kitchen with 2nd reception room, 2 double bedrooms, large single bedroom, bathroom, shower room, single garage with utility area, balcony.
ÂŁ1,050 per week Un/furnished Hyde Park Office 020 7479 1999
www.lurotbrand.co.uk
LANCASTER ROAD, W11 ÂŁ1,600,000 Share of Freehold
Superbly finished by De Rosee Sa Architects with over 1200 sq ft of the utmost luxury. Beautiful oak herringbone floors and crisp neutral dĂŠcor feature in the double reception space. The room is open plan to a well-equipped, contemporary kitchen with fully integrated appliances and marble-topped Piedra di Burgos stone surfaces. The upper level presents two double bedrooms; the master suite incorporating a luxurious en suite bathroom with Carrara marble topped twin sinks and a separate, sky-lit shower. Elsewhere is a stylish home office/library and a useful utility area and cloakroom.
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: winter collections at Woodhouse on Westbourne Grove
STANLEY CRESCENT, W11 ÂŁ2,400,000 Share of Freehold
A luxurious three bedroom maisonette refurbished by Stephen Fletcher Architects. Dual aspect sash windows, American black walnut floors and sophisticated interior design adorn the sizeable reception room alongside a stylish and fully integrated kitchen/dining room. The lower floor consists of a generous master suite with walnut lined, bespoke fitted wardrobes and an indulgent en suite Jacuzzi bathroom. There are two further double bedrooms, a superb guest shower room and a well-designed, walk-in wardrobe. The property enjoys access to Stanley Gardens.
GUNTER GROVE, SW10 ÂŁ2,500 per week Long let
A rare architectural gem offering beautifully designed space and light. With awe-inspiring glass walls and roofs, the central feature of this impressive property is a vast double volume atrium with a smart glass bridge. On the raised ground floor is a formal reception room and study, whilst below is the day-to-day open plan living space with a well-equipped kitchen, snug and access to a pretty patio garden. Four good sized bedrooms including the master suite occupy the top two floors of this fabulous residence, which also features a host of high tech multi room audio visuals, air conditioning and under floor heating.
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: iconic photography at The Little Black Gallery on Park Walk
JAY MEWS, SW7 ÂŁ1,950 per week Long let
Lovingly reworked by Theis & Khan Architects to offer bright and unique mews style living. Occupying the first floor of a charming mews house, this fantastic apartment features a bright and spacious reception room with vaulted ceilings, original sash windows and cool, crisp dĂŠcor. On the split level is an open plan contemporary kitchen, dining and home office area with French doors leading onto a private decked terrace. The master bedroom is generous with floor to ceiling fitted wardrobes and a stylish en suite bathroom, alongside a second bedroom, with ample fitted storage and guest shower room.
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Evelyn Gardens SW7 Price on application This large duplex apartment presented in excellent condition throughout, comprises a large open plan kitchen/reception room with views over the communal gardens, two double bedrooms, a family bathroom, a large master suite with excellent built-in storage and a private roof terrace accessed from the half landing. Leasehold. Sole Agents. CHELSEA: 020 7591 5570 sales.chs@marshandparsons.co.uk
Palace Gate W8 ÂŁ2,895,000 This beautifully presented, split level apartment is located moments from Kensington Gardens, arranged over the ground and lower ground floors, the accommodation boasts a large double reception room, a separate kitchen, three double bedrooms (two en suite), a further bathroom, a private patio and access to a roof terrace. Share of Freehold. Sole Agents. KENSINGTON: 020 7368 4450 sales.kns@marshandparsons.co.uk
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Hasker Street SW3 ÂŁ1,400 per week This stunning townhouse is located on an extremely popular road close to both Knightsbridge and South Kensington. The property boasts a superb reception room leading out to a private terrace, a modern kitchen/dining room, a second reception area with access to a private patio, a stunning master bedroom suite, a second double bedroom with en suite and a large study/nursery. CHELSEA: 020 7591 5570 lets.chs@marshandparsons.co.uk
Bramham Gardens SW5 ÂŁ725 per week An immaculate apartment with private access to Bramham Gardens, located moments from the amenities of Gloucester Road and Earls Court. This property boasts a large reception room with high ceilings, a separate modern kitchen, a large double bedroom with excellent storage and a modern bathroom. The flat benefits also from a private internal courtyard and a study. EARLS COURT: 020 7835 0620 lets.ect@marshandparsons.co.uk
The Property Gallery KEITH GORNY, Director at Marsh & Parsons, draws a parallel between the profiles, and relationships, cultivated by art galleries and the central London property market AN AGE AGO, during my pre-university gap year, I worked as an intern at Bond Street’s auction house and its great rival on King Street. Back then the Art World referred to the well-trodden path buyers took between these two venerable institutions as the ‘golden mile’. Dealers, keen to capitalise upon the collectors attracted to the area by these global brands, would pay huge shop premiums for the opportunity to catch an ambling buyer’s eye. Later, during the course of my studies, I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to work front of house in one of the more successful high-end private galleries on Bury Street. Given the gallery’s sizeable double frontage I was surprised that only one, admittedly impressive, work was on display. While clearly a very elegant effect surely such valuable window space was being under-utilised? My enquiry was met with a wry smile. “We sold that piece some months ago; we’ve got permission to hang it till the new owner collects it.” Of course this was an exercise in gallery profiling designed to seduce an enquiry while maintaining a sense of exclusivity, setting the right tone with a buyer at the very start of a relationship that would blossom over the long-term. Having demonstrated credibility and effectiveness by having already ‘placed’ the painting, the gallery owner would look to establish empathy with the enquiring collector and win their confidence by demonstrating his not inconsiderable knowledge in their area of interest. The collector, suitably impressed, would reciprocate and offer information about themselves, their collection and their goals. It was in achieving these goals that the gallery owner excelled, earning his fee and his success. Having developed a network of vendors and buyers over the decades spent in the industry, he had a unique off-market catalogue. By knowing the whereabouts of the buyer’s perfect piece and by controlling their perception of value he could tempt a sale from a vendor by delivering the absolute best price. The collector is over the moon with their prize as is the vendor with their monetary return which, more often than not, was used on another soon to be sourced work of art. The gallery’s principal purpose was not to display paintings for sale; it served as an introductory service that marked the start of a journey that, with careful management and impeccable service, could last a lifetime. This is a very simplistic review that in no way pays tribute to the subtlety, skill and hard work that justified the dealers’ well-deserved reputation. I see many parallels with central London’s Prime House Market, not least the number of sales that are conducted discreetly without any direct advertising. While London’s wider property market has become more transparent with the availability of floor plans and pound per square foot values, high-end transactions are often cloaked in discretion and conducted behind closed doors. While there is nothing new in ‘off-market’ property sales at the top end, there has been a notable increase in vendors utilising this method across financial bands; indeed 40 per cent of the sales Marsh & Parsons has conducted of a value between £5 to £8 million in the Holland Park and Notting Hill area since the start of the year have been conducted discreetly without any direct advertising. In part this is an understandable reaction to the less certain times
we live in. In the era of easy mass market delivery, where a property can be beamed around the world in moments, vendors are rightly concerned about the damage to profile over-exposure can create if an immediate sale is not forthcoming. “Advertising can be a gamble; work depreciates quickly on the open market; the unavailable is far more alluring”, I remember being told as a starry-eyed gallery attendant in the late 80s. But, more positively, a wider number of vendors are coming to appreciate the value an experienced agent can bring to the sale process through a more personal, controlled approach that utilises an established network and intimate market knowledge. Marsh & Parsons’ Central London office infrastructure is uniquely integrated and offers a truly bespoke service within the prime London market. Our senior agents operating through the area share hundreds of years’ worth of experience between them, having conducted some of the most important sales in the Royal Borough and Westminster while acquiring an intimate knowledge of their market. These relationships create opportunities for vendors and buyers alike. We know and have established relationships with the best buyers for our client’s properties, their financial profile has been assessed and their motivation gauged. Our clients can preserve discretion and a high level of anonymity while being confident in the knowledge that our international reach and local ‘knowhow’ has channelled the best prospects to their door. Without doubt the Internet is a fantastic tool that has improved efficiency within the property industry. Our highly refined and expensive gallery window, like so many others, is now immediately accessible to the widest possible audience. However the real value that lies between agents is something that long predates modern technology; by making an enquiry you will appreciate the real difference that exists. www.marshandparsons.co.uk / KGorny@marshandparsons.co.uk
PROPERTY
KENSINGTON & CHELSEA
HOT PROPERTY:
1-4 Glynde Mews
Four mews, including Ringo Starr’s former Knightsbridge home, for sale
R
EC
OM MEN
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1-4 Glynde Mews, SW3 Prices start from £3,650,000
IN THE EARLY 1990S Ringo Starr and his wife Barbara Bach, a former Bond Girl, lived at 4 Glynde Mews, a private cul-de-sac located just off Walton Street in SW3. Glynde Mews, purchased some five years ago from The Wellcome Trust, has been redeveloped to provide four unique and highly sought-after houses, each with the rare benefit of underground parking. Of the four houses, Ringo’s was the easiest to redevelop and rebuild because it is on just two floors. As with the other three houses in the mews, each house has been innovatively designed to maximise natural light and has been finished to the highest of standards using materials such as Douglas Fir and Portland Stone. Ringo Starr’s old home is still arranged over two floors but the other houses now have a barrel-vaulted reception room on the second floor and two have media rooms in their new lower ground floors. As a result of the extensive redevelopment of Glynde Mews, all the houses are pre-wired for an audio/visual system, with an underground parking bay and comfort cooling to the principal bedroom, reception and media rooms. Glynde Mews is accessible on foot from Walton Street and by car from Yeoman’s Row which means that both Knightsbridge and the King’s Road are within easy reach for residents.
THE KENSINGTON & CHELSEA MAGAZINE
Adam Carey / Matthew Kaye 020 7590 0066 adam@kayeandcarey.co.uk matthew@kayeandcarey.co.uk
205
Sloane Gardens, Chelsea SW1 An excellent red brick period building near Sloane Square containing 2 large apartments - a 3 bedroom triplex and a 3-4 bedroom maisonette. Comprising 4,372 sq ft, it was completely refurbished approximately 5 years ago with a lift, air conditioning and has views over communal gardens. Subject to the necessary consents, the building could return to a single house.
020 7590 0066
Freehold ÂŁ7,650,000
Markham Street, Chelsea SW3 An immaculate, newly refurbished period house situated on the eastern side of this popular street just off Kings Road and within easy reach of Sloane Square. n n
3/4 bedrooms n 2 bathrooms (1 en suite) n Reception room n Dining room Kitchen n Study/bedroom 4 n Guest cloakroom n Patio garden
020 7590 0066
Freehold ÂŁ3,250,000
DELIGHTFUL
ELIZABETH STREET BELGRAVIA Designer refurbished, this bright and well proportioned 3 bedrooms, 2 bathroom apartment enjoys just over 1000 square feet on charming Elizabeth Street. The apartmnet has the unique feature of its own front door and no communal area. Welcoming you as you enter are warm and neutral colours with wonderful high ceilings in the sitting room and kitchen.
£1,999,999 GUIDE PRICE Leasehold Sole Agent ABU DHABI • AIX-EN-PROVENCE • • MEGEVE • MERIBEL • MILAN
BARCELONA • CANNES • COURCHEVEL • COSTA BRAVA • GENEVA • GSTAAD • LONDON • MONACO • PARIS • ST-JEAN-CAP-FERRAT • ST-PAUL-DE-VENCE • ST-TROPEZ • VALBONNE
www.john-taylor.com
THE FRENCH ARE COMING!
A
s we head into our winter and after much grumbling over the increase in stamp duty and the UKs uneasiness of where the budget decisions will fall, France’s personal and wealth taxes have filled a void and no other location can better benefit than central London. No other area outside the beloved 16th and 17th Arrondisements, are more sought after by the French than the leafy and park filled streets of Kensington and Chelsea. Throw in the word “Royal” and a renowned French school next to the consulate and it is easy to see why the French love affair continues with Kensington and Chelsea. The John Taylor London office is seeing a steep rise in clients escaping Mr Hollande’s “soak the rich” 75% personal tax along with increases in capital gains taxation. We therefore welcome a French speaking senior negotiator to the team in Mayfair, Tracy Hughes, to assist with the demand. The volume of Central London sales has declined in the prime market above 2 million quite dramatically since the April budget. The stamp duty revenue to the government must also be declining rapidly. Is government legislation now a major driver of boom and bust property markets across Europe, and especially in England? How do the economists factor in such a serious impact within their predictive models? The recent property boom started in 2001 due to a proactive move to lower the Bank of Englands base rate below 5% to stimulate the economy. This was combined with restrictive policies on building new properties, an open door immigration policy, and a free credit boom to provide the perfect stimulus for house prices. The boom ended with a thump in 2008 when base rates were moved back up through 5% to “curb inflation”, and credit was bought to an abrupt halt, causing sales volumes to fall by 50% and prices to fall by some 20% depending on where you were within the country.
Record low base interest rates were then introduced to stimulate the market, which, due to the lack of credit, failed. However rounds of quantitative easing drove the pound down against the euro causing a miniboom in central London, where property seemed cheaper in foreign currency, but more importantly central London property became a currency hedge. Taxation increases in April this year halted the boom, mainly by creating a great deal of uncertainty, but also by making moving more expensive than renovating and extending a house. So people, logically, stopped moving.
T: 0203 2841 888 M: +44 787 654 59 86 E: dadams@john-taylor.com twitter@davidadamsEA
www.john-taylor.com
Of course relying on overseas governments to be more counterproductive than our own, to create recovery, is worrying. Until governments realise that retail recovery requires property market recovery, as the English do not shop as much when their house price is under pressure, we will continue to see stop and start bumpy rides. But we must be pleased to take any stimulus to our property industry and our economy from Europe even if it is simply due to short term politics.
David Adams Managing Director John Taylor - UK
SHEFFIELD TERRACE, W8 A stunning 7 bedroom newly modernised south facing white stucco fronted family house. The property is over 5 floors and extends to 3459 sq ft and provides bright contemporary living with period features, excellent entertaining space. Sheffield Terrace is a prestigious Kensington address benefitting from the facilities of Kensington High Street and Notting Hill Gate. Entrance Hall - 2 Reception Rooms - 2 Dining Rooms - 7 Bedrooms - Study - 3 Bathrooms (2 En-suite) - 2 Shower Rooms (1 En-suite) - 2 Cloakrooms - 2 Kitchens - 3 Patios - Balcony - Roof Terrace
Freehold
ÂŁ7,500,000 OFFICES AT KNIGHTSBRIDGE & MARBLE ARCH
Montpelier Street, SW7 Stunning recently refurbished interior designed two double bedroom maisonette with it’s own entrance and high ceilings, extending to 958 sq ft over first and second floors, with high ceilings and westerly aspect. The property is located moments from Harrods with the amenities of Knightsbridge immediately at hand. Reception Room - Two Bedrooms - Bathroom - En-suite Shower Room - Bespoke Fitted Kitchen
leasehold 121 Years
ÂŁ1,800,000
KniGHtSBriDGe: 51 BeAUCHAMp plACe lonDon SW3 1nY 020 7581 7646
SALES
LETTINGS
MANAGEMENT
INVESTMENT
KNIGHTSBRIDGE +44 20 7589 4452 knightsbridge@messilaresidential.com www.messilaresidential.com
SUNNY SOUTH FACING PERIOD CONVERSION EMPERORS GATE, SOUTH KENSINGTON, SW7
ÂŁ1,300,000 Leasehold - Plus share of Freehold
A two bedroom, third floor apartment located in an attractive and well maintained period conversion close to the amenities of Gloucester Road and South Kensington. Comprising reception room with feature fireplace, separate kitchen, two double bedrooms and a large bath & shower room. In very good condition and finished to a contemporary style. Further benefiting from high ceilings throughout, south facing views overlooking lovely communal gardens and ample natural light. MAYFAIR
KNIGHTSBRIDGE
MARYLEBONE
REGENTS PARK
51-53 South Audley Street
20 Montpelier Street
65 Weymouth Street
137 Park Road
www.messilaresidential.com
SALES
LETTINGS
MANAGEMENT
INVESTMENT
KNIGHTSBRIDGE +44 20 7589 4452 knightsbridge@messilaresidential.com www.messilaresidential.com
COMPREHENSIVELY REFURBISHED PENTHOUSE ALEXANDRA COURT, SOUTH KENSINGTON, SW7
ÂŁ2,995 Per Week
A beautiful and spacious, lateral four bedroom apartment situated on the top floor of this attractive redbrick mansion block with porterage. Comprising a double reception room, modern kitchen, large separate dining area, terrace area, guest cloakroom, three double bedrooms with en-suite bath or shower rooms and a fourth single room with en-suite shower room. Completely renovated, this brand new apartment boasts great natural light, air conditioning and its own private terrace. MAYFAIR
KNIGHTSBRIDGE
MARYLEBONE
REGENTS PARK
51-53 South Audley Street
20 Montpelier Street
65 Weymouth Street
137 Park Road
www.messilaresidential.com
KENSINGTON HIGH STREET, W8
ÂŁ1,250 per week
This elegant three bedroom mansion apartment, located in the heart of Kensington will be available from the beginning of January on a furnished basis. Decorated and furnished to an extremely high standard the apartment further comprises a beautiful open plan reception room with open fireplace, quaint balconies and a dining room leading to a fabulous hi-tech kitchen. There are two stylish en suite bathrooms, a further shower room and utility room. Kensington High Street is just moments away and Hyde Park is within walking distance. Viewing highly recommended.
www.tatesestates.co.uk
135 Hammersmith Road, London W14 0QL
LEXHAM GARDENS, W8
ÂŁ1,150,000 Share of Freehold
This beautifully presented split level flat is located on Lexham Gardens within the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. Convenient for the tubes and amenities of Kensington High Street and Gloucester Road (District, Piccadilly and Circle line tubes). This flat is on the 2nd floor (with lift) and enjoys views over the communal garden square from the very spacious reception room. The reception room also features a fire place and three large sash windows with a southerly aspect. There are two double bedrooms, one en-suite with access on to a balcony to the rear.
Wilton Place, Knightsbridge, sW1 A beautiful Grade II listed four bedroom house for rent in a quiet location on Wilton Place. The property benefits from four bedrooms and four bathrooms, reception room, dining room, kitchen, shower room, roof terrace and patio garden. Available immediately unfurnished for a long let.
ÂŁ5,950pw 020 7225 6602 Karen.boland@harrodsestates.com
Knightsbridge oFFice: 82 broMPton road london sW3 1er t: +44 020 7225 6506 MaYFair oFFice: 61 ParK lane london W1K 1QF t: +44 020 7409 9001
HARRODSESTATES.COM
Trevor Square, KNighTSbridge, SW7 A stunning first floor apartment of (1,773sq ft/166 sq m) in this exclusive Knightsbridge development, with 24 hour concierge and security. The apartment comprises two double bedrooms (both en suite) large reception/ dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, cloakroom, utility and spacious entrance hall. There is also one large carparking space on the first floor car park. 17-22 Trevor Square was redeveloped from the old Harrods Depository building in 2002, providing forty generously proportioned residences over six levels. Finished to the highest specifications within Poggenpohl kitchens, air-conditioning and Creston integrated home entertainment systems; the development provides 24 hour concierge, private car-parking, resident’s roof garden and a comprehensive security system. £6,200,000 020 7225 6509 Nicholas.shaw@harrodsestates.com
KNighTSbridge oFFiCe: 82 broMPToN road LoNdoN SW3 1er T: +44 020 7225 6506 MaYFair oFFiCe: 61 ParK LaNe LoNdoN W1K 1qF T: +44 020 7409 9001
HARRODSESTATES.COM
120 Cheyne Walk, SW10 Infamous women’s rights activist Sylvia Pankhurst lived in Cheyne Walk between 1906 and 1909. GEMMA TAYLOR explores some of the most striking moments of her life
THE PUBLIC MEMORY OF Sylvia Pankhurst has been largely overshadowed by that of her indomitable mother Emmeline who, in 1889, fought to allow married women to vote in local elections by founding the Women’s Franchise League. Sylvia supported her mother’s endeavours and in 1903, when she became a member of the more militant group, Women’s Social and Political Union (WSPU ), she became one of the first suffragettes. But after graduating from the Royal College of Art in Kensington in 1906 Sylvia wanted to be an artist and moved into 120 Cheyne Walk to pursue her dream. Happiness at her new address was short-lived; in her first year of residency, the young suffragette was imprisoned for aggressive campaigning with the WSPU . Sylvia recorded her horrifying experiences of hunger strikes and force feeding, which were published in the 1922 book Writ on Cold Slate: “Presently I heard footsteps approaching, collecting outside my cell. I was strangled with fear. There were six of them, much bigger and stronger than I. They flung me on my back on the bed and held me down by shoulders, knees, hips and ankles. My eyes were shut… I set my teeth and tightened my lips over them… A man’s hands were trying to force my mouth open… his fingers were Photography: Issy Croker trying to pull my lips apart as a screw was turned… they were trying to get the tube down my throat… Though I suppose I was unconscious of anything by then for they said, at last, ‘that’s all’... Day after day the same struggle… sometimes I felt the tube go right down into my stomach, a sickening terrifying sensation.” After the passing of the 1913 Prisoner’s Temporary Discharge Act for Ill Health, known as the ‘Cat and Mouse’ Act, Sylvia was more than once released for short periods, only to be re-arrested once sufficiently recovered. During these interludes she was often carried on a stretcher by supporters to attend meetings in London’s East End. However, Sylvia began to feel uneasy with the way the WSPU militancy was not following any controlled strategy or bringing working women into the fold and a rift formed between Sylvia and her mother. Sylvia held strong pacifist views and when, on the outbreak of World War One, Emmeline and her adopted sister Christabel became ardent war supporters, her
estrangement from them became entrenched. After she left the WSPU, Sylvia saw her role more clearly. Men were disappearing to fight and women needed support. She opened a milk distribution centre and within three weeks had also launched a cut-price restaurant that served around 400 meals a day. These successes encouraged her to found a toy factory that provided jobs for women and persuaded West End stores to stock their products. Then, in April 1915, she opened a nursery and clinic in a converted pub, which she named The Mothers’ Arms. Totally inexperienced in childbirth, she found herself acting as midwife to a terrified mother whose husband was away at the Front and comforting a Jewish couple whose 17-year-old son had been shot for desertion. Believing that the war was an imperialist adventure, Sylvia worked to oppose conscription and campaigned for peace on the pages of her newspaper, The Women’s Dreadnought. After the 1917 Russian Revolution, Sylvia saw Communism as the best way forward to achieve her ideals. She changed the name of her newspaper to The Workers’ Dreadnought and the name of her political organisation to The Workers’ Socialist Federation. Among her new co-workers was Silvio Corio, an Italian journalist and revolutionary five years her senior. Corio was to remain at her side, professionally and personally, for 30 years. But, as she fought for her new cause, a Soviet-style form of government that she believed to be the most democratic, time had passed and even in London’s East End, people were tired after the war. It was the age of flappers; skirts were short, shoes were flat and there was an air of gaiety. No one wanted to listen to Sylvia any more. It was time to move on. That move, made with Corio in 1924, was to a tiny ramshackle, rat-infested cottage – renamed Red Cottage – on Woodford Green, at the edge of Epping Forest. This turned out to be a period of chaotic creativity for Sylvia. In 1926 she published a 600-page book, India and the Earthly Paradise, and soon after, at the age of 45, she became pregnant. In December 1927 Richard Keir Pethick Pankhurst was born. Sylvia never married Corio as this would have been to compromise her principles and belief in sexual freedom for men and women.
After graduating from the Royal College of Art in 1906, Sylvia wanted to be an artist and moved into 120 Cheyne Walk
PROPERTY
A Voice From the Country There are very few things in life that appear to be quite such great value as property purchases – but all too often this is only with the benefit of hindsight, explains MARK PARKINSON OF COURSE, THE PASSAGE of time will always, sooner or later, ensure a good return on property investment. But making the meaningful returns, that once seemed almost a given, nowadays requires at least a medium-term, and possibly a long-term, view. This is not just because of the flat-lining of the economy as a whole but also because of the fact that virtually everyone else is wise to the relative security of property as an investment. There are very few bargains out there, just waiting for someone with a nose for property to sniff out. One of the last remaining ways of digging out a hidden gem is through thorough research and some future planning. Take the Crossrail project, as one example of this line of thought. Europe’s biggest engineering project isn’t scheduled for completion until 2018 but if you wait until then, the premiums will already be built into the thousands of properties which suddenly find themselves inside the magic circle – the border-line marking the difference between daily commute and weekend escape.
Maidenhead to Canary Wharf, as just one example, is currently a one hour 40-minute journey involving three changes. In a few years’ time the same journey will be a non-stop 54 minutes. That changes the equation completely. By the time Crossrail is finished – with 37 existing stations connected, 21 kilometres of new twin-bore tunnels and eight new subsurface stations – owners all over Greater London, Berkshire and Essex will be recalculating their journey times. And when they’ve done that they’ll start recalculating their property value. My advice? Start looking now. Start buying soon. Now is the time to do your research, so that in ten years’ time, you can sit back and listen to other people being wise with the benefit of hindsight. ‘A Voice From the Country’ is a series of articles by Middleton Advisors, who act on behalf of private clients looking to purchase country houses and estates in the UK (01235 436 277; www.middletonadvisors.com)
Maidenhead
THE KENSINGTON & CHELSEA MAGAZINE
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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
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020 7600 3456 020 7318 5039 020 7629 7282 020 7318 5196 020 7052 9417
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Bury Walk | Chelsea | SW3 1,106 sq ft (102.7 sq m)
An extremely well presented three bedroom freehold period house located in the heart of Chelsea. Entrance hall | Drawing room | Kitchen/dining room | Master bedroom | Second double bedroom | Third bedroom/study | Two full bathrooms | Patio | Outdoor storage Asking price ÂŁ1,999,999 Freehold
Chelsea 020 7225 3866
Westbourne Park Villas | Bayswater | W2 2,424 sq ft (225.2 sq m)
Built circa 1843, this semi detached, five bedroom villa benefits from having a fabulous south facing garden and off street parking. Entrance hall | Drawing room | Dining room | Two kitchens | Five bedrooms | Two bathrooms | Utility room | Cloakroom | Garden | Off street parking Asking price ÂŁ2,950,000 Freehold
Notting Hill 020 7221 1111
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M COW COW M HON KONG
Where will we find your perfect buyer? At Strutt & Parker, we’ve always gone to great lengths to bring the right buyer to your door, using our knowledge, contacts and total commitment to achieve the sale you want. But now we go further than ever. As members of the Christie’s International Real Estate network, we can reach quality buyers in 42 countries via 1,049 offices and a website visited 135,600 times a month. There’s no better way to open your door to the world.
struttandparker.com
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09/10/2012 10:54
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
struttandparker.com
Tedworth Square | Chelsea | SW3
Stafford Terrace | Kensington | W8
2,000 sq ft (185 sq m)
1,359 sq ft (126.3 sq m)
An elegant, bright three bedroom maisonette with bright southfacing rooms on this popular garden square.
A charming and well presented three bedroom flat on the second floor of this impressive stucco fronted Victorian terraced house.
Drawing room | Kitchen/breakfast room | Three bedrooms | Two bathrooms | Study | Guest cloakroom | Balcony | Private parking space | Access to Tedworth Square
Entrance hall | Drawing room | Dining room | Kitchen | Three bedrooms | Bathroom | Shower room
Asking price £3,450,000 Leasehold
Asking price £2,250,000 Leasehold
Chelsea 020 7225 3866 JSA Knight Frank 020 7591 8600 Kensington 020 7938 3666
Evelyn Gardens | South Kensington | SW7 Draycott Avenue | Chelsea | SW3 2,415 sq ft (224.4 sq m)
1,559 sq ft (144.8 sq m)
An exceptional and recently refurbished four bedroom apartment.
An outstanding interior designed upper maisonette with roof terrace and balcony and its own street entrance.
Entrance hall/study | Reception room | Kitchen/dining room | Four bedrooms | Three bathrooms | Two cloakrooms | Roof terrace | Access to communal gardens (subject to usual consents)
Private entrance | Reception room | Dining room | Kitchen | Three bedrooms | Two bathrooms | Utility room | Balcony | Roof terrace
Asking price £3,150,000 Leasehold
Asking price £2,975,000 Leasehold
West Chelsea 020 7373 1010 JSA Winkworth 020 7373 5052 Chelsea 020 7225 3866
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Where will we find your perfect buyer? At Strutt & Parker, we’ve always gone to great lengths to bring the right buyer to your door, using our knowledge, contacts and total commitment to achieve the sale you want. But now we go further than ever. As members of the Christie’s International Real Estate network, we can reach quality buyers in 42 countries via 1,049 offices and a website visited 135,600 times a month. There’s no better way to open your door to the world.
struttandparker.com
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09/10/2012 10:54
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
struttandparker.com
Lamont Road | Chelsea | SW10 2, 074 sq ft (139 sq m)
A beautiful spacious five bedroom family house located in the Ten Acre Estate in the heart of Chelsea. Five bedrooms | Two reception rooms | Two bathrooms (one en suite) | Separate WC | Study area | Utility room | Patio garden ÂŁ2800 per week Unfurnished
West Chelsea Lettings 020 7373 1010
Wilton Place | Knightsbridge | SW1 3,477 sq ft (323 sq m)
A stunning and beautifully presented Grade II listed house in this wonderful quiet location. Kitchen | Dining room | Drawing room | Four bedrooms | Four bathrooms | Media room | Terrace | Gym | Garage Asking price ÂŁ6,450 per week Unfurnished
Knightsbridge Lettings 020 7225 3866
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HON KONG
Where will we find your perfect buyer? At Strutt & Parker, we’ve always gone to great lengths to bring the right buyer to your door, using our knowledge, contacts and total commitment to achieve the sale you want. But now we go further than ever. As members of the Christie’s International Real Estate network, we can reach quality buyers in 42 countries via 1,049 offices and a website visited 135,600 times a month. There’s no better way to open your door to the world.
struttandparker.com