The Mayfair Magazine May 2012

MAY 2012 s issue 008

Celebrating

Nostalgia

From 50’s glamour to period drama, we can’t get enough of the past

Our definitive guide to the

Summer Season

LONDON FLAGSHIP BOUTIQUE 29 LOWNDES STREET • KNIGHTSBRIDGE • SW1X 9HX T: +44 20 7201 2590 E: store@herveleger.co.uk

Mayfair

the heart of

R e s ta u R a n t

|

c o c k ta i l b a R

|

lounge

|

aRt galleRy

|

chef’s dining Room

|

la cave

10 lancashiRe couRt new bond stReet london w1s 1ey +44 (0) 20 7518 9388 www.mewsofmayfaiR.com

from the

E DITOR Kate Harrison

W

ith the dark days of winter just a distant memory, we now stand at the start of one of the most exciting summers London has ever known, a summer so great it even has its own website and motivational Youtube video thanks to our ever-enthusiastic mayor. to ensure these long, hot days live up to expectation, we have selected the truly not-to-be-missed events from now until august, covering everything from proms to polo (p. 15). and speaking of polo, this summer also promises to be a very interesting year for the sport, being the first time the new rules of play have been followed. Ashwin Bhardwaj, explores the effect of these rules, while looking back at the history and development of the sport (p. 102). indeed, it seems that looking back is something of a trend at the moment. From period dramas to retro-inspired fashion and homeware, it seems that our passion for nostalgia knows no end. as the V&a prepare to open their stunning exhibit, Ballgowns: British Glamour Since 1950, Olivia Platt-Hepworth investigates what it is about the past that has us so enthralled (p. 24). meanwhile, David Harrison, talks to leading nostalgic artist Peregrine heathcote about his stunning and wistful work (p. 30), including our beautifully evocative cover which i am already coveting for my home. i’m not the only one looking for design inspiration; this is the time of year when we all start to look around for interesting, new ways to brighten up our homes. With this in mind, we talk to furniture designer tim gosling (p. 34) and interior designer Katharine Pooley (p. 88) to see what we can do to improve our living space. We also meet with wardrobe experts, Vault Couture and Sarah hogan, whose services promise to transform cluttered wardrobes into paradigms of organised perfection (p. 84). and finally, it’s not just our clothes that need to be displayed with care, as Mike Peake discovers, dedicated wine rooms are the new must-have for any desirable mayfair residence (p. 94). From underground vaults to spiral staircase cellars, the options are innovative and as limitless as your wine collection itself. and once you have your new wine display, grab a bottle and head out to a picnic with our guide to luxury picnicking (p. 126), complete with butlers, champagne, and a hamper from Fortnum & mason of course‌

008

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

TO BREAK THE RULES, YOU MUST FIRST MASTER THEM. THE WATCH THAT BROKE ALL THE RULES, REBORN FOR 2012. IN 1972, THE ORIGINAL ROYAL OAK SHOCKED THE WATCHMAKING WORLD AS THE FIRST HAUTE HOROLOGY SPORTS WATCH TO TREAT STEEL AS A PRECIOUS METAL. TODAY THE NEW ROYAL OAK COLLECTION STAYS TRUE TO THE SAME PRINCIPLES SET OUT IN LE BRASSUS ALL THOSE YEARS AGO: “BODY OF STEEL, HEART OF GOLD”.

OVER 130 YEARS OF HOROLOGICAL CRAFT, MASTERY AND EXQUISITE DETAILING LIE INSIDE THIS ICONIC MODERN EXTERIOR; THE ALWAYS PURPOSEFUL ROYAL OAK ARCHITECTURE NOW EXPRESSED IN 41MM DIAMETER. THE AUDEMARS PIGUET ROYAL OAK: CELEBRATING 40 YEARS.

ROYAL OAK IN STAINLESS STEEL. SELFWINDING ING MANUFACTURE MOVEMENT.

Audemars Piguet UK Ltd Telephone: + 44 207 659 7300 www.audemarspiguet.com

Royal_Oak_210x297_m.indd 1

08.03.12 08:10

RUN WILDbracelet london_UK 13/04/12 09.37 Pagina 2

From the Honeycomb Eternelle Ring Collection

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

C ONTENTS

94

15 Summer season

What lies beneath

From Henley to Ascot, we tell you all you need to know about the summer’s social calendar

Wine cellars are no longer just about the storage. Mike Peake takes a look at the new design must-have

21

104

Style is eternal

Top of the world

Kelly Green celebrates 175 years of luxury brand Hermes’ timeless designs

Matthew Carter puts the new Porsche 911 to the test

126

24 As time goes by With popular culture increasingly obssessed with the past, Olivia Platt-Hepworth examines our nostalgia

Grassroots dining As summer approaches, Neil Ridley collects some top-notch ideas for a true foodie picnic

40

REGULARS

Residents’ news Our guide to the best things happening in Mayfair, St. James and Belgravia this month

8

Editor’s letter

39

My Mayfair

46

Exhibition focus

57

Collection

70

Fashion

87

Interiors

104

Motoring

109

Travel

119

Health & Beauty

125

Food & Drink

136

Concierge

141

Property

C ONTRIBUTORS Matthew Carter Matthew Carter is a London-based freelance journalist who’s been writing about cars for most of his working life. A former

MAY 2012 s issue 008

editor of Autocar magazine, he is a serial car owner.

Carol Cordrey Carol Cordrey is an art critic and editor with popular columns in many magazines. Each year she organises the international London Ice Sculpting Festival as well as sponsored art competitions which are judged by distinguished artists.

Elizabeth Gibson Elizabeth Gibson studied at the London College of Fashion and Central Saint Martins, and assisted several high-profile photographers before setting out on her own. Her photography has graced the pages of German Vogue, British Elle, InStyle and Glamour, and she has shot several luxury fashion campaigns.

Neil Ridley As well as being deputy editor for Men’s lifestyle magazine The Chap, Neil is also a regular contributor to Whisky Magazine and Imbibe, and has featured in The Evening Standard and

Editor Kate Harrison

Editor-in-Chief Lesley Ellwood

Deputy Editor Elle Blakeman

Collection Editor Annabel Harrison

Head of Design Hiren Chandarana

Production Manager Fiona Fenwick

Designer Sophie Blain

Client Relationship Director Kate Oxbrow

Editorial Assistant Lucy Haenlein

Brand Consistency Laddawan Juhong

Art Editor Carol Cordrey

Head of Finance Elton Hopkins

Food & Drink Editor Neil Ridley

Associate Publisher Sophie Roberts

Production Hugo Wheatley

Managing Director Eren Ellwood

Proudly published by

Sunseeker. His irreverent whisky blog caskstrength.net was

RUNWILD

recently nominated for several online awards.

M

Tamsin Pickeral

E

D

I

A

G

R

O

U

P

7 Heron Quay, Canary Wharf, London E14 4JB 020 7987 4320

Tamsin Pickeral is a much published author, art historian and critic. Her books include The Dog: 5,000 Years of the Dog in Art, voted within the top 50 Art Books of the Year by the Financial Times. Her most recent book is The Majesty of the Horse, 2011. She has a penchant for the unusual and a weakness for chocolate.

www.rwmg.co.uk

Runwild Media Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Runwild Media Ltd. takes no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved.

DISTRIBUTION: The Mayfair Magazine is distributed in Mayfair, St James’s and Belgravia as well as selected parts of Knightsbridge, Chelsea and Marylebone.

Kensington

& Chelsea

Vantage

COVERING ST JOHN’S WOOD, MAIDA VALE, PRIMROSE HILL, MARYLEBONE, REGENT’S PARk AND THE SURROUNDING AREA

MAY 2012 s issue 003

the essence of

Chelsea

RHS

Flower Show

Glorious Gardens, fine foods & seasonal fraGrances

Beautiful Blooms & Glorious Gardens

MAY 2012 s issue 008

Celebrating

Nostalgia

From 50s glamour to period drama, we can’t get enough of the past

Summer style Haute Couture Hats & Dresses

&

House &home

fashion travel motoring interiors property

fine livinG & luxury in hampstead’s historic homes

M A Y

2 0 1 2

i s s u e 2 2

ARCADE Diamonds are forever

Expert advice and exquisite jewels

Timely

fashion

For the stylish modern day gentleman

Cover: ‘Handle With Care’

by Peregrine Heathcote (www.peregrineheathcote.com) See page 30

Irresistibly

luxurious The ultimate guide to London’s Mayfair

Our definitive guide to the

Summer Season

0844 411 5080 royalascothospitality.co.uk

03798119_RA2012_Ad_Run_Wild_A4.indd 1

07/03/2012 17:02

FEATURE

You are cordially invited to a Mayfair

Summer season From arts and culture to international sport, we outline the hottest social dates of the summer diary 2012

RSVP

Illustrations: Mai Osawa

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

015

May

16-27 16 -27 May

Cannes Film Festival

Think red carpets, palm trees, stars of the silver screen and the paparazzi – this is the 65th anniversary of the world’s most famous film festival. In its 65th year, there will be some fifty films in the Official Selection, alongside the Cinéma de la Plage, with performances of film music and showings of Cannes classics and non-competition films on Macé beach. (www.festival-cannes.fr)

17 – 21 May

England v. West Indies at Lord’s

Lord’s plays host to the opening test match of the season, against the West Indies. The West Indies is the first of two touring teams to visit the UK this year, preceding the test match with South Africa. Good views over the field are found in the upper tiers of the Grand and the Mound Stands; next best are Grand Stand seats. (www.lords.org) Lord’s Aus ODI © Sarah Williams & MCC

18 May – 8 Sept

Open Air Performances Regent’s Park

The open-air theatre in London’s Regent’s Park is a magical setting for a performance this summer. Take an indulgent picnic to enjoy on the lawn or pre-book tea and cake or an evening supper. Lit with fairy lights, there’s a bar serving Pimm’s for the ultimate evening enjoyment. (www.openairtheatre.org)

24 – 27 May

Monaco Grand Prix

Image by David Jensen

22 – 26 May

One of the most challenging Formula One tracks, the Circuit de Monaco is an exciting test of F1 driving skills. One of the most famous and popular, its wealthy setting also makes it one of the most glamorous places to be and be seen each summer. (www.formula1monaco.com)

24-27

Chelsea Flower Show

An English favourite, especially with the royals, the world-famous flower show is a traditional highlight of the social season.

Organised by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) the Show takes over the grounds of The Royal Hospital for five days each May, displaying a huge array of plants, plus a multitude of gardening accessories and tools.

Advance booking is essential. (www.rhs.org.uk/chelsea)

7

FEATURE

June 19 – 23 June

Royal Ascot ascot stages 26 days of racing throughout the year, but the five-day Royal meeting, held annually in June, is the most famous. the prestigious gold Cup event is held on Ladies’ Day, on Friday it is the turn of the Coronation Stakes, and the meeting ends on Saturday with the golden Jubilee Stakes. (www.ascot.co.uk)

4 June – 12 August

4-12

RA Summer Exhibition

a long-standing favourite of the London art year, the academy Summer exhibition is the world’s largest open-submission contemporary art exhibition. a rotating committee made up of practising artists choose works from more than 11,000 entries. more than 150,000 visitors a year come to the summer exhibition at the Royal academy to admire around 1,200 works by established and unknown living artists, including paintings, sculpture, prints and architectural models. www.royalacademy.org.uk

21 June – 9 september

Serpentine Gallery Exhibit the Serpentine’s timely exhibition, SmiLe, will reflect upon the enormous impact that Yoko Ono has made on contemporary art, exploring her influential role in art, music, film and performance. her first exhibition in a London public institution for more than a decade, Ono will present new and existing works, some of which have rarely been shown in the UK. (www.serpentinegallery.org)

27 June – 1 Jul y

Henley Royal Regatta

© 2007 John Offenba

ch

Jaap Oepkes,www.jaa

One of the world’s most prestigious rowing events, held over five days, presided over - and often attended by - the Royal Family, henley’s famous annual regatta attracts international crews and even Olympic champions. it consists of knockout races over a one-mile 550-yard course including the most long-standing race, the grand Challenge Cup for men’s eights. (www.hrr.co.uk)

photo.com

25 June – 8 Jul y

Wimbledon this garden-party style tournament, which began in 1877, has grown to become one of the world’s favourite sporting events. Fought out for two weeks, Wimbledon is the third grand Slam tournament of the year and the only one still played on grass. most tickets for these courts are sold in advance via a public ballot, entry for which closes in December. however, Wimbledon is the only major grand Slam where fans can queue for tickets for the same day’s matches. (www.wimbledon.org)

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

29 June – 1 Jul y

29-1

Goodwood Festival of Speed

a highlight of the motorsports calendar that attracts more than 150,000 people, goodwood’s Festival of Speed celebrates competition cars and legendary drivers. Dubbed ‘the garden party of the gods’, FOS takes place in the scenic parkland surrounding goodwood Park in West Sussex. motoring fans can watch a 1.5-mile loose-surface rally stage featuring around 30 historic vehicles, visit the technology Pavilion and try out driving simulators and 4x4 driving. (www.goodwood.co.uk/fos)

017

July

3-8

3 – 8 Jul y

Hampton Court Palace Flower Show The Hampton Court Flower Show draws crowds of over 160,000 visitors, as the largest of the RHS flower shows.

The Exclusive Preview Evening on 2 July (tickets start at £50 per person) includes fireworks and live music – and the main Show offers a plethora of ideas and inspiration for the enthusiastic gardener with as many as 50 display gardens. (www.hrp.org.uk)

Models at the opening of The Naked Garden by David Domoney, Hampton Court Palace Flower Show 2011

4-8

13 Jul y – 8 september

4 – 8 Jul y

BBC Proms

Henley Festival

One of the world’s greatest classical music festivals, the BBC Proms now include over 70 main concerts, welcome leading international performers, and showcase the best of British music and performance. Additional events include Proms in the Park, Proms Literary Festival and Family Orchestra. Within the Royal Albert Hall, there are seats in the stalls, choir, circle, tier and gallery.

The ground-floor arena is for standing only, true to the ‘promenade’ tradition of the original founder. (www.bbc.co.uk/proms)

Celebrating its 30th year, the Henley Festival is held on the banks of the Thames where guests enjoy outdoor music, dance and street theatre, arts displays and a firework finale. 2012 acts include Sting, Katherine Jenkins and Lulu, while dining options include Heston Blumenthal’s gastropub menu and candlelit meals at Albert and Michel Roux Jr’s riverside restaurant. (www.henley-festival.co.uk)

22 Jul y

Cartier International Day, Polo Often cited as being ‘the biggest polo day in the world’, the Cartier International attracts a crowd of around 25,000, including royalty and Hollywood A-listers. The full programme of events includes the competition for the Golden Jubilee Trophy and the Coronation Cup. Extras include champagne picnics, luxury retail village and the players’ marquee – evening entertainment ends at 11pm. (www.guardspoloclub.com)

22 25 Jul y – 12 August

London 2012 Olympic Games The biggest event in London not only this year, but this decade, the Olympic Games are coming to the capital this summer. Kicking off in spectacular style with an epic opening ceremony on 25 July, the Games run for two and a half weeks and challenge the best athletes from around the world in a gladiatorial battle to win gold. (www.london2012.com)

8

FEATURE

August 1 – 12 August

Meltdown Festival at Southbank Centre

Since 1993 some of the worlds most distinguished musicians have been the guest directors of meltdown.

From John Peel through to massive attack, via David Bowie, Patti Smith, morrissey and more, meltdown has given seminal artists the chance to pick their favourite artists to play and exhibit their work at Southbank Centre. (www.meltdown.southbankcentre.co.uk)

11 – 18 August

Juilliard Dance, The Waldstein Sonata

Aberdeen Asset Management Cowes Week

the annual isle of Wight regatta has long been a sporting highlight of the summer season. Covering eight days in early august, aberdeen asset management Cowes Week stages up to 40 daily races for more than 1,000 boats. Up to 8,500 competitors participate each day ranging from weekend sailors to worldclass and Olympic yachtsmen as crowds of more than 100,000 enjoy a festival atmosphere, and fireworks display on the final Friday. (www.cowesweek.co.uk) CWL/ Rick Tomlinson

9 August – 2 september

9-2

Edinburgh International Festival this ‘platform for the flowering of the human spirit’ combines classical music, theatre, opera and dance talent from around the world in Scotland’s capital city. the edinburgh international Festival has given rise to around ten associated festivals that are together known as the ‘edinburgh Festival’. the festival has had a yearround home at the hub, edinburgh’s Festival Centre, a listed building with an impressive spire, contemporary sculptures and stained glass. (www.eif.co.uk)

29 August – 9 september

Paralympic Games Opening with a spectacular opening ceremony on 29 august, the Paralympic games immediately follow the Olympic games where athletes with a physical disability compete in 21 sporting events from archery and athletics, through to sailing and swimming. the last event is 7-a-side football at the Riverbank arena on 9 September before the closing ceremony takes place at the Olympic Stadium. (www.london2012.com)

29 August – 8 september

Venice International Film Festival Founded in 1932 and the oldest film festival in the world, Venice is the film fan’s ultimate dream. Set against the glamorous backdrop of the Venice Lido, the Festival is centered on the Palazzo del Cinema. the golden Lion award is awarded to the best film screened at the festival and is one of the most prestigious awards in international cinema. 2012 celebrates the 69th Venice Film Festival. (www.labiennale.org/en)

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

Olympic Stadium CGI. © Populous

019

N E W S TO R E

SLOANE ST Sw1 C O N T E m p O R a Ry CaShmERE SiNCE 1936

Available from Burlington Arcade, Mayfair Tel: 020 7499 6485 and 149 Sloane Street Sw1 Tel: 020 7730 6891

www.npeal.com

FeatUre

Style

is eternal as luxury brand, hermès prepare to celebrate 175 years with their retrospective exhibit Leather Forever, Kelly Green explores why their classic style will never fall out of fashion

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

021

Decent hanD luggage is hard to find. this is something Jane Birkin found out when she sat on a flight from Paris to london one day in 1984. With her old canvas bag on its last legs overflowing with her personal items, Birkin complained to the gentleman sat beside her that she couldn’t find a bag to suit her. luckily for the actress and singer, this would be one of the last flights, or indeed outings of any kind, that she would have to suffer the burden of an ill-suited bag. For that day, Birkin happened to be seated on the airplane next to Jean-louis Dumas – head of the historic luxury fashion label hermès from 1978-2006. there and then he offered to create a bag for her that would be big enough to transport ‘her house’ and stylish enough to make them both proud. the rest, as they say, is history. the hermès Birkin became legendary – world famous and instantly recognisable. Since the first one was born, clients wanting ‘the same, but different’ have added their own personal touches to the original design. Birkin herself covered hers in stickers, auctioning her first bag for the victims of the taiwan earthquake, while linda evangelista stood by while her friend Jean Paul gaultier covered her white Birkin in graffiti at the unveiling of his first ready-to-wear collection for hermès in 2004. gaultier also designed a more slender and elongated version to be worn over the shoulder: the Shoulder Birkin.

But the Birkin was not the first hermès bag to achieve such iconic status. In the 1930s, Robert Dumas created a women’s handbag that broke the tradition of the decorative fashion of the time. his creation went relatively unnoticed until 1956 when it appeared on the arm of grace Kelly, hollywood star and fairytale princess. the moment was captured on camera, and the picture published in a magazine that made its way around the world. legend has it that her large-model crocodile hermès bag was used to hide the curves of her pregnancy. What the legend doesn’t say is that she had also ordered a good half dozen ‘Kellys’ in black, honey, brown, hermès red and dark green box. today the Kelly bag has become the hermès ambassador worldwide, making guest cameos in films such as Le Divorce and A Perfect Murder. It now has an extensive family tree: eight sizes, from the Kelly 50 (50 cm) to the Kelly mini-mini (15 cm); twenty materials – box, ostrich, crocodile, lizard, cowhide, pigskin, smooth grain calfskin, Vibrato, canvas and leather; all of

Above / Prince Rainier III of Monaco with actress Grace Kelly at the announcement of their engagement in Philadelphia, 1956. She is clutching a Hermes purse.

Photography: Howard Sochurek/Time & Life Pictures/Getty Images © 2009 Getty Images

the hermès colours and three-coloured versions; all-in-all, more than two hundred possible combinations. there have been some more unusual variations, too. In 1987, christian Renonciat sculpted the Kelly out of wood. In 1996, the Kelly appeared in clear plastic to make security checks easier at a women’s ready-to-wear runway show. and in 2004, the Kelly was made of bread – the golden crust of which looked like patinated leather – for the exhibition created by gaultier at the Fondation cartier in Paris. this month, these variations of the Kelly and the Birkin are on display for all to see in london, as part of a new exhibition to celebrate hermès 175th year. alongside them will be four new unique bags celebrating the united Kingdom, which will be sold with all proceeds being donated to a charity.

But bags are just a small part of this fascinating exploration of hermès history. entitled Leather Forever, the exhibition showcases the special relationship hermès has with leather, the first material tamed by the brand. When thierry hermès founded the label in Paris in 1837, it was a house of master harnessmaking and later saddlemaking. the first hermès object to be created after the harness, the saddle is the house’s most technical product and the exhibition takes a closer look at the label’s equestrian heritage.

Six generations of enterprising artisans later and hermès has explored new markets and new skills. the company has grown, but the love of leather has never faltered. ‘Sometimes I picture my ancestor thierry hermès back in 1837, his eyes lighting up as he breathes in and feels the leathers of the saddle and harness workshop he has just set up in Paris… the same olfactory joy thrills me today,’ says Pierre-alexis Dumas, artistic director and sixth-generation family member. the exhibition takes visitors on a poetic journey through each painstaking stage of craftsmanship. as you might imagine, the story begins with the skin. tanning is the key process by which the raw skins are transformed into leather, saturating their fibres with tanning agents, a long, delicate process, which demands great expertise. as the hermès artisans will tell you, the finished leather will look and feel different according to the treatment of the skin, and

FEATURE

Uniting nations as part of the hermès 175th anniversary celebrations, the brand has collaborated with Christie’s, for a unique and ultra-chic auction. Four one-of-a-kind versions of the classic 1975 Passe-guide bag, each representing england, ireland, Scotland and Wales, will be sold in a special tribute to the United Kingdom and ireland. the bags will be available at the Leather Forever exhibit for a closer look before they are whisked off to their patriotic new owners. the type of tanning and finishing. the eye and hand are invariably the final judges: the artisan will assess the quality of the leather prepared by the tanner, and decide on its ultimate destination – handbags, diaries, small leather goods, belts, watch straps… the happy owner of an object by hermès may find it very hard to imagine the tribulations experienced by the skin from which it is made. even the most ardent leather admirer is unlikely to realise the number of people who have bent closely over the skin, the time and attention lavished upon it, the multitude of inspections it has had to pass to reach the hermès ateliers.

For hermès, leather has always been more than simply a material. transforming it, refining it, embellishing it, marrying it with other materials, giving it multiple functions, modelling it to meet the desires of clients, letting it live a discreet or adventurous life: that is the hermès passion. the Duke and

‘For Hermès, leather has always been more than simply a material’ Duchess of Windsor knew this. they ordered several objects from the house at 24, Faubourg Saint-honoré, which are displayed in Leather Forever, including a leather wheelbarrow to hold all the Duke’s gifts to Wallis, a motoring cap, pairs of dolls’ gloves, a sporran and a travel blotter…

But back to bags. each unique bag is the work of one craftsman (who makes no more than two per week), from beginning to end. the selected skin arrives on the cutter’s table (each craftsman cuts five or six bags per day). Before cutting he must find the flawless areas, identifying the best parts of the skin with the highest quality.

Post cutting, the craftsman gathers all the different elements needed to make a bag (leather, lining, double lining, baize, clasps, plates, rivets…) and prepares them before moving on to the assembly stage. the assembly requires a lot of skill. For a rigid Kelly, the craftsman receives forty elements at his assembly table, all of which are used to make the object. hand-stitching, saddle-stitching and polishing edges are just a few of the specific operations that go into crafting a hermès item. Leather Forever will give visitors a unique insight into this delicate and ritualised process, with artisans from the Parisian hermès workshops on hand to demonstrate the art of leather working.

Passe-Guide England Crafted from box calfskin, an elegant, hard-wearing leather born in england in the 19th century, this bag comes complete with a bold, black fur charm, a nod to the iconic bearskin hats of the Queen’s guard.

Passe-Guide Scotland Created by famed Scottish weaver, Johnstons of elgin, this bag features classic tartan (in a unique orange created by hermès), framed by a unique honey-hued patina. the charm is a fun oversized kilt pin, swinging from the side.

Passe-Guide Wales the Welsh dragon protects the side of this bag, made from deep green Box calfskin, and embossed with gold. there is also a second dragon discreetly embossed on the front of the bag, which is finished with gold fittings and a lambskin lining.

Passe-Guide Ireland the emerald isle is celebrated with this vivid green crocodile skin version complete with butter-soft lambskin lining. the deep shade was designed specifically for this project and christened ‘irish green’. the charm is a lucky fourleafed clover.

The ‘Leather Forever’ exhibition is open from 8 May - 27 May at the galleries at 6 Burlington Gardens, London W1 The auction opens from 14 May at 9am and closes on 31 May at 5pm. Bids will be taken online by Christie’s to buy them at auction and all of the proceeds will go to the Royal Academy of Arts.

To place a bid, go to www.christies.com

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

023

Upstairs Downstairs Images courtesy of BBC

FEATURE

As time goes by From period dramas to silent films, Fifties fashion to retro homeware, it seems we can’t get enough of the past. as the V&a prepares to open new exhibit ‘Ballgowns: British glamour Since 1950’, Olivia Platt-HePwOrtH takes a look at the current trend for all things nostalgic

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

025

We’re obsessed with looking back. Downtown, Mad Men, Gatsby…

Today’s popular culture is ironically becoming more retro than yesterday’s.

Nostalgic reminiscence is a theme across much popular culture, as we collectively attempt to recollect on the decades that flourished, both economically and socially. It is the roaring Twenties, the safe Fifties and the swinging sixties that are igniting the creativity of fashion designers, television producers and film directors. eras that were characterised by wealth and hedonism with advances in technology and women’s rights. As our society leaves the recent troubled years behind and looks to a brighter future, it seems appropriate to draw on eras that were prosperous and forward thinking. over the past year, references to the Charleston era have been seen in today’s pop culture. Television programmes including Downtown Abbey and films like The Artist have been very well received by the audiences’ apparently insatiable appetite for time gone by. This year’s spring collections of many fashion houses were inspired by the news that F. scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby is being re-made by baz Luhrmann. Gucci was one brand that invoked the trend, sending sequined fringe, flapper-style dresses with black and white art deco designs down the runway.

Indeed the oscar-winning film, The Artist is one of the most striking contrasts to ‘now and then’, as cinema goers surprisingly welcomed a silent film, with a straightforward plot and just three main characters – could it be that we are all just craving the simple life?

To celebrate the Queen’s diamond Jubilee and her influence on high fashion, the Victoria & Albert Museum will open an exhibition that will examine the definition of high glamour through the display of nearly eighty ballgowns this month.

Ballgowns: British Glamour Since 1950 will look at dresses with ‘presence’, from the finest couture to zany designs that have been worn on the red carpet to dresses worn to ‘coming out’ or debutante balls that grew to popularity in the 1950s.

The emphasis on societal events in britain, including royal state occasions, debutante balls, country house parties and opening nights at cultural institutions such as the royal opera House has meant that ballgowns have become a staple item for every lady’s wardrobe.

Though its context has changed over the decades, from private parties to the red Carpet in more recent years, the ballgown continues to be a symbol of status, protocol and personal expression.

‘A ballgown is a dress with a lot of presence; it’s very much about the moment,’ says orielle Cullen, curator of modern textiles and fashion at the V&A. ‘often the wearer will choose a dress with a design that is synonymous with their own style and will present her in a way that she wishes to be seen by others. Yet it also must be appropriate for the event to which it will be worn, whether it is a ball, a high-profile social engagement or a red-carpet affair.’

The post-war period of the 1950s heralded a new age in fashion. Led

by America, economies of many Western nations recovered after World War II and brought with them a new age of consumerism. After years of struggle and hardship, this time was distinguished by a sense of exuberance and expressionism towards fashion. society had grown weary of the clothing restrictions that governments had enacted during wartime, and soon returned to wearing extravagant clothing made from sumptuous fabrics.

It was also in this period that extravagant, exclusive balls were held to stimulate consumption in britain and hereafter, provided a fitting reason for women to wear beautifully made couture gowns.

According to Cullen, London in particular built a reputation for designing

Upstairs Downstairs Images courtesy of BBC

FEATURE Mad Men on Sky Atlantic HD

Jean Dujardin as George Valentin and Berenice Bejo as Peppy Miller in Michel Hazanavicius’s film ‘The Artist’.

Photography: The Weinstein Company

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

027

FEATURE Erdem, A.W 2008 © David Hughes

grand dresses for formal occasions and as such, many couture houses were established in the Mayfair district to serve the needs of a growing client base.

Often these clients would request a dress be designed around heirloom jewellery.

‘It was common in the 1950s for people to wear a ballgown matched to their family jewellery and it was for this reason that all London couturiers were taught to design around a specific piece of jewellery or the colour of a particular stone,’ says Cullen. The dresses will be beautifully displayed for viewers in dynamic poses along with stories from the designers and the wearers about the gown, how it was designed and the occasion on which it was worn.

The display will also include a film with contextual images and accessories such as evening bags, gloves and shoes.

To coincide with the V&A exhibition and to commemorate the Jubilee, luxury department store Harrods will unveil a dedicated pop-up ballgown boutique and a new store façade. The façade is based on a design that was found in the store’s archives for the Queen’s Coronation, but was never used.

To create the boutique and the façade, Harrods collaborated with a number of British and international designers and jewellers for a display of 13 ballgowns and 31 crowns that will be unveiled in May. The crowns will be based on a replica design of King Edward’s Coronation Crown, but will be adorned in materials of their choice. The designers involved in the project include De Beers, Paul Smith, Fabergé, Lanvin and Mulberry.

Each one reflects the brands’ individual styles: De Beers has used a mixture of diamonds to create a shimmering crown. By contrast, Mulberry has covered its crown in hundreds and thousands sweets which will sit atop a cushion made from a mock up of a Victoria sponge cake. Paul Smith’s crown has used decorative buttons and is lined with a map of the Commonwealth.

The boutique will contain evening gowns designed by some of the world’s most acclaimed fashion names, including Valentino, Cavalli and Britain’s Jenny Packham.

Mark Briggs, Store Image Director of Harrods, says that the display and the façade will have a feel of nostalgia, while remaining modern. ‘We are celebrating Harrods’ rich heritage whilst showcasing the breadth and depth of contemporary luxury labels available from the store today,’ he says. ‘Harrods is an iconic London landmark and we felt it was hugely important to commemorate this occasion with a display that pays homage to our rich heritage and celebrates the creativity and diversity of the contemporary brands housed within Harrods’.

Another blast from the past has arrived in the return of the highly successful American television programme, Mad Men, to British screens for the show’s fifth season. The stylised show depicting an advertising agency in 1960s Manhattan is as fabulously nipped-in, high-heeled and chauvinistic as it gets.

In the lead up to the release of the new season, magazines, blogs and newspaper supplements have produced frenzied advice and imagery on how the Mad Men ‘look’ can be created for men, women and even for the home, following in the pastel pinafored footsteps of the Cath Kidston brand.

High-street fashion label, Banana Republic has launched its second Mad Men-themed capsule collection, created in collaboration with the costume designer of the programme, Janie Bryant.

Films, novels and prominent figures have long influenced culture and designers, but it seems that living in a rapidly changing world has generated a heightened affection to hold onto the glory days – long may it last.

‘Ballgowns: British Glamour Since 1950’ opens on 19 May and will take place in the newly renovated fashion gallery in the V&A.

028

T H E M AY FA I R M A g A z I n E

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

+44 (0)20 7736 2917

Feeling nostalgic This month, as we look wistfully back to ages past, we are drawn irresistibly to the fabulously nostalgic paintings of Peregrine Heathcote. DaviD Harrison examines the British artist’s life and work Peregrine HeaTHcoTe’s paintings reveal an enchanting fascination with travel, adventure, and the imaginative pull of a bygone age. Born on the banks of the Thames in 1973, these preoccupations were cultivated from an early age as he enjoyed a childhood packed with interesting people, experiences, and a well-cultivated appreciation of old and exotic objects. His father was an antique dealer, specialising in militaria and filling the house with military memorabilia and, to this day, Heathcote draws inspiration from interesting things. ‘Like a Magpie’ he tells me ‘i compulsively hoard and collect objets trouvés from antique shops, bric-a-brac shops and online stores from around the world. The studio is filled with boxes piled high floor to ceiling full of uniforms, costumes and props that appear in my paintings, from a red Us coin opperated payphone sent in from Bethlehem new Hampshire to a dry-ice fog generator from stoketon-on-Tees, UK.’ other lingering traces of his nostalgic childhood lie in his memories of the well-travelled ‘arthur Mulliner’ rolls royce he inherited from his paternal grandfather at the age of ten. He vividly recalls sitting on the back seats smelling the leather and fantasising about international adventure. His maternal grandfather, an raF test pilot, also left his mark, with his fascinating tales of secret missions and logbooks detailing journeys in exotic aircraft going to intriguing places.

With his prodigious artistic talent apparent from an early age, and after completing his schooling at stonyhurst and Harrow, Heathcote put his fascination with travel to the test, setting off on an adventure of his very own. Following in the path of countless romantic artists, he journeyed to Florence to study in ‘The Fine art academy’ for three years, where american art historian charles cecil helped him perfect his drawing and painting technique. Upon graduating, he returned to London to take up a career as a portrait artist; soon securing several prestigious commissions with well-known celebrities and entrepreneurs.

Heathcote has since gone from strength to strength, with his pictures gracing many galleries across the world, particularly in the Usa, south africa and UK. He has recently held his first solo introspective at The albemarle gallery, to be followed up shortly by further exhibitions at The albemarle in september, The Bonner David gallery in January, newbury Fine arts (Boston) in February and cavalier galleries greenwich (cT) in June and July. He has also introduced a range of short runs of limited-edition giclee Prints signed, numbered and embossed. We can’t wait to see what’s next for this nostalgic artist.

Prints can be purchased from www.peregrineheathcote.com or www.newburyfinearts.com

Right / A Journey Can Change The Course of a Life

FEATURE

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

031

Above / Handle With Care

FEATURE

Above / Lifeguard All images courtesy of Peregrine Heathcote

‘I compulsively hoard and collect objets trouvés from antique shops and bric-a-brac shops from around the world’

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

033

Design for life tim Gosling has been bringing his signature brand of opulence and grandeur to London homes for several years now. As he releases his new book, Priscilla Pollara meets the man himself to discuss London landmarks, thirties design and why minimalism is lost on him

For most, running a business from within one’s own home would be conducive to anything but hard work. surrounded by distractions and the temptation to labour on beyond humane hours, it wouldn’t be everyone’s ideal choice for office.

Gosling disagrees, but then he comes at this subject from a very different – and fortunate – viewpoint.

For years, the handsome furniture designer has both lived and run his successful seven-year-old firm from under the same Clapham roof, a building which just happens to be the borough’s oldest dwelling, sycamore House. Built in 1790, it was occupied by the royal Warranted sycamore Laundry up until just over a decade ago when it was separated into flats. over the years, tim has slowly acquired most of the property as it has vacated itself, leaving him now two apartments away from owning it entirely.

But the house as it is today is by far and away the best advert for the 45 year-old’s passion for art and

his inimitable talent. there is rich paintwork in opulent palettes found on everything that isn’t still in its original hue; gold-leaf cornicing, bookshelves which come in the shape of unique narrow vertical recess slits carved into the wall, intricately hand-gilded frames, plaster busts which stare down from spot-lit wall inlets and there’s also a white fireplace influenced by the Karnak temple Complex in Egypt. And that’s only the ground floor. ‘minimalism is lost on me I’m afraid,’ Gosling, whose business operates only on private commission, explains. ‘the concept is interesting, but I wouldn’t know where to start. I’m of a completely different persuasion because for me, there’s no greater project than that found within looking at one particular feature and working out how it fits into its surroundings. once that piece is done, it’s on to the next. minimalism is understandable on a holiday retreat, but it doesn’t reflect reality.’

Accustomed as he is to these magnificent surroundings, the arresting grandeur of his home is somewhat lost on Gosling. But it’s hard to cast blame; after all, his hands are often full with an outlandish, luxurious array of requests bestowed upon him by his wealthy clients.

‘At the top end of the market, things are still functioning at full pelt. I can honestly say there’s little to absolutely no recession in the world of furniture design.

I’m often being asked to push the bar higher; in some cases, people will stop at nothing in order to achieve the look they want.

‘From the moment I hear from a client, there is an intimate process which takes place. Firstly, there’s understanding exactly what they’re trying to achieve, before sketching, designing, sourcing and using the finest materials in the most precise and traditional way.

Attention to detail is an under-estimated phrase when it comes to furniture design.’

Currently, he says, it’s all about the thirties. ‘the film The Artist was successful in helping shine a

FEATURE

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

035

light on all that was wonderful about interior design in the Thirties and Forties, so there’s no real surprise that there’s a return to the work which made both Jacques-Emily Ruhlmann and Syrie synonymous with their eras.

Shagreen and mother of pearl, which I love using within my work, has notably risen in prevalence.’

As if his endless commissions – which can often take up to a year, or more, to complete - weren’t enough, Tim is currently overseeing the launch of his second book. After the success of his first, Gosling: Classic Design for Contemporary Interiors, a compendium of some of his best work and incomparable style, this project is an altogether new challenge for Tim. London’s Secrets: A Draughtsman’s Guide will bring together 30 precious shots of the city’s landmark buildings which Tim has personally selected from Getty’s vast archive – think along the lines of Buckingham Palace, St Paul’s Cathedral and The Guildhall. Tim’s hand-sketched renditions and a detailed explanation of the various architectural techniques and history behind each structure will sit adjacent to the photographs. In addition, all proceeds will benefit the Prince’s Drawing School, a charity founded by Tim’s friend, HRH Prince Charles, while the foreword is written by another close chum, Vivienne Westwood.

Where his first tome may have explained what furniture design means to the Gosling brand, this new book conveys a sincere love for architecture

‘I can honestly say there’s little to absolutely no recession in the world of furniture design’ – a not altogether unexpected path for Gosling to tread.

Gosling’s rise to design notoriety has been so fast, in fact, that few recall his time spent as a theatre designer post Central St Martins, when he constructed sets for shows such as Miss Saigon in London’s West End. It was a stepping stone which would stand him in good stead: he credits the profession for teaching him the ability to capture ‘the essence of a room’, while to this day, he labours over detailed sketches before getting started with any sort of construction. ‘To see something come alive on paper before it’s even begun, is the true magic of the sketch.’

He went on to work for David Linley, the Belgravia-based furniture design company run by Princess Margaret’s son, Viscount Linley, for nearly two decades as Director. His time there just happened to coincide with the company’s most fruitful and successful years.

It’s nearly ten years since Gosling departed Linley’s employment to go it alone and to create Gosling Ltd and he admits that he’s never looked back. In fact, he’s not had any time to look back.

Feverishly busy from the very start, he was helped along by the contacts and clients who flocked to his new business at its birth. Today, his work is visible in just about all of the most-talked about places in London.

The Savoy and Berkeley Hotels have been touched by Gosling’s hand, as have the BP Headquarters, many private houses throughout Mayfair, Chelsea and Kensington and the cruise ship Oriana. Last year, he was again in the spotlight as the Middleton family descended on the quaint Goring Hotel in

Belgravia, again, where he is credited with the design of several bedrooms and the lounge, terrace and bar.

He could so easily have tripped up over his Goring brief; after all, ‘Keep it cosy - don’t change a thing, but make it look different’, would not have seemed the easiest of demands to obey.

But Gosling triumphed. Some of his highlights? There are console tables in ebonised wood with brass frieze cockbeading and next door, there are windows that are covered by gorgeous deep crimson silk curtains fit with gilt poles and arrowhead finials. There are burnished antique frames hanging on the sprayed red lacquer walls in the bar, too.

‘I’ve never been able to create something that I myself have not liked.

Perhaps that means I like a whole range of things, but I can honestly say that I’ve always found it impossible to bring something I wouldn’t myself have in my own living space, to life for someone else.

‘I’m fortunate in that my clients trust me to get on with the work because some of the regulars, as it were, never really give me that much to go on. All that you see in the finished project is my interpretation of their requests.’

What with the Olympics and the Diamond Jubilee both expecting to draw in thousands of visitors, 2012 has long been marked as a demanding year for London. But Gosling finds himself in much the same boat: he’s never been busier.

There are the constant multitude of client projects to complete, commence and incoming ones to pre-plan, images to shoot, materials to source, inspirations to continually find and of course, all this atop the

FEATURE

ever-chaotic administrative work that goes behind publishing a book. the stress will ultimately be worthwhile: London’s Secrets will give its reader a taste of gosling’s rarely-admired talent for drawing, while it also treats them to slices of London’s history that may have for whatever reason passed them by. ‘i couldn’t ever imagine living anywhere else,’ he says, naturally defensive of the city that’s he called home for so long. ‘there’s so much to do and learn in London, this is a great way to get under its skin. it’s such an overwhelming city and i’m like most of its inhabitants in that i feel i’ve hardly scratched its surface.’

For the rest of the year, it seems, gosling will hardly be coming up for air. ensconced at his gorgeous Clapham hQ surrounded by his small but perfectly-formed team, he tells me that working into his time off to complete all his loose ends, despite living and working under the same roof, is resolutely not on the cards. there is an invisible line, he tells me, which marks the end of the office and the start of his private living space. to the untrained eye, however, Sycamore house is grand, beautiful and plush in every corner, so much so, that there’s not even a slither of a suggestion that the room replete with authentic beams, a high-ceiling and pretty colours - where gosling’s team currently huddle around computers and run the business - was once just a laundry room. tim gosling has a somewhat unoriginal answer to the question of his life’s greatest achievements. it is, he says, that he learnt early on that life ought to be lived to its fullest. there can be no doubt that to the expense of his other hobbies, for now, this passionate designer is doing exactly that.

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

037

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)

INTERVIEW

My

Jeremy Parsons Ceo Berry Bros. & rudd spirits

May fa I R

take a stroll down st James’s street from Piccadilly towards Pall mall where only the most hardened, or short-sighted, of visitors could fail to be seduced by the romance of mayfair at its georgian best.

Wine and spirits merchants Berry Bros. & rudd have occupied number three st James’s street since 1698, and for the last three centuries have supplied the prestigious cellars of monarchs, celebrated dandies as well as leading politicians and socialites from across the globe. the traditional georgian look and feel of the establishment has not changed in that time and the sight of the slightly rickety oak flooring, wood paneled walls and original customer-sized weighing scales lend the place a distinctly decadent feel – one which the likes of Beau Brummel and lord Byron would have no doubt enjoyed when selecting a fine vintage port or oloroso sherry.

But behind the antique bottles and quill pens lies an innovative business, one that has won countless awards for developing new products as well as currently maintaining two royal Warrants for h.m. the Queen and h.r.h. the Prince of Wales. it’s unsurprising then that Jeremy Parsons, Ceo of Berry Bros. & rudd spirits, takes the years of tradition very seriously indeed. ‘Despite the long-standing traditions that we’re well known for, there’s definitely innovation at Berry’s,’ he says. ‘But you need to look at it quite closely – it doesn’t happen overnight. one thing we’ve always maintained, is that our business needs to be liquid led, in that the quality of the spirits and wines we work with are amongst the very best.’ a fine example is a rather warming concoction called the kings ginger liqueur, which was devised on the orders of the physician tending to king edward Vii, who had taken to ‘the highways in one of the country’s first horseless carriages’, he says. the king needed a tonic to revivify him from the

cold and Berry’s famous ginger-based tonic was born. so what is it like to be part of one of mayfair’s most enduring epicurean institutions. ‘the word privileged comes to mind,’ he says. ‘mayfair has a real timelessness to it. But although it’s a particularly bustling place, there are all these quiet little corners, like Pickering Place next to the shop, as well as st James’s square and especially the parks, where you often see people taking quiet, reflective lunches, away from the hustle and bustle of the rest of the area.’

Despite its tranquil appearance, the tiny courtyard of Pickering Place (accessed discreetly from the side of the shop and where Berry Bros. also have their private dining rooms), played host to the last public duel with swords back in the late 18th century, which was fought to the death inside the discrete perimeter of the square. rather amazingly, given how small the enclosure is, another duel (this time involving pistols) was fought as late as the middle of the 19th century. it is stories like these that delight many of Berry Bros. international visitors, keen to experience a unique part of london from the yesteryear. Parsons often entertains guests within the grand walls of the Chairman’s dining room, wonderfully resplendent with antiques from the shop’s history, as well as an extensive collection of leslie Ward’s famous ‘spy’ caricatures from Vanity Fair magazine. But he is also a firm fan of scott’s, hix oyster & Chop house in Farringdon and especially the Wolseley (‘it’s always buzzing, come breakfast, lunch or dinner’).

Berry’s latest project, no. 3 london Dry gin harks back to the era when the shop was founded, and the simple, flavoursome proprietary recipe delivers a traditional, heavy juniper-led punch. ‘Whereas some new gins have veered away from the traditions of ingredients used, says Parsons, ‘we wanted to remain faithful to our roots.’ and impressive roots they are too.

Berry Bros. & Rudd, 3 St James’s Street, London SW1A 1EG (020 7396 9600; www.bbr.com)

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

039

Mayfair & St James’s

News

Italian wine, private collections and after-dark museum trips; there is much to explore this month

Viva l’Italia After the success of their sell-out Spanish event, Mews of Mayfair will be exploring the delights of Italian wines this month. Under the expert guide of master sommelier Vincent Gasnier, explore the selection on offer and expand your knowledge of the signature Old World grapes of Arneis, Umbria Pinot Nero and the complex Alto Adige Chianti Riserva Classico, alongside delicious canapés. Past sessions have proven very popular so book early.

10 Lancashire Court, New Bond Street, W1S 28 May, 7pm £40 per person (020 7518 9395; www.mewsofmayfair.com)

Modern classic Mammels is bed-ridden and so arthritic that she can only view the outside world through an angled mirror, like the Lady of Shallot. Adam, her son, attends to her – but cannot, or will not, cut the apron-strings and marry a piano-teacher who is available, but aridity personified. From veteran playwright Charles Dyer, ‘Mother Adam’ looks to our ageing population and explores the notion that the most important relationship of the characters’ lives – indeed the only real relationship – has been with a mother or father who has come to be indistinguishable from the phantom spouse they never had the time to find. Beautifully written, darkly comic, and not to be missed.

Jermyn Street Theatre 8 May - 2 June Monday to Saturday 7.30pm, Saturday matinees 3.30pm £18 (020 7287 2875; www.jermynstreettheatre.co.uk)

wellbeing of women Literary Lunch

Join Wellbeing of Women on 3rd May for the next in their series of Literary Lunches. Held in Mayfair’s own Fortnum & Mason, the events provide an opportunity to hear from some great writers about their own books - with a delicious lunch to boot. Past star guests have included P D James, Rachel Johnson and Allison Pearson. This month, Alexandra Shulman joins Eve Pollard to discuss her new book Can We Still Be Friends.

The Wellbeing Literary Lunch with Alexandra Shulman is held at Fortnum & Mason on 3 May. Limited tickets at £75.

Contact Chantelle Morgan (020 7772 6400; cmorgan. wellbeingofwomen@rcog.org.uk)

Conceptual colour For those who love the abstract teamed with the evocative, head down to the Scream gallery this month, where a dynamic exhibition of colour will illuminate the walls.

Polish-born artist malgosia Stepnik is showcasing her signature-style canvases at States of Mind, her first show at the venue. With each painting focusing on a theme of the emotional state of the psyche, and taking a number of months to complete, Stepnik displays a number of textures, shapes and layers, resulting in a wonderful kaleidoscope of reverberating colour and energy. She pushes the boundaries even further where painstakingly executed images on aluminum panels are surrounded by a bespoke lighting system, so they seem to pulsate and take on a life of their own.

Malgosia Stepnik: States of Mind Exhibition, 27 April-2 June Scream Gallery London 34 Bruton Street, W1J (020 7493 7388; www.screamlondon.com)

Collection exquisite

After dark

a private collection of 150 works by Carl Fabergé will be exhibited at Wartski this month to coincide with the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. the show at the antique dealer’s flagship store will include a number of miniature animals carved from coloured hardstones, including elephants, chimpanzees and pouter pigeons, among iconic examples of their jewellery. this miniature gold bonbonnière in the form of a coal skuttle is bordered with rose diamonds and surmounted by a gold handle set centrally with a fabulous pearl, revealing not only Fabergé’s own creativity but the discrimination of the collector, who has spent over thirty-five years assembling this remarkable and delicate group of objects.

With drawn curtains and twinkling chandeliers, historic apsley house is bound to be a distinctive destination for night owls and culture vultures this month. as part of the annual festival ‘museums at night’ weekend, the english heritage property (otherwise known as number One, London), and home to the Duke of Wellington after his victory over napoleon at Waterloo, contains paintings by Rubens as well as lavish collections of silver and porcelain. enjoy an expert talk about the fascinating history and collections as you explore the rooms in the atmospheric half-light of the evening.

14 Grafton Street, W1S 15-25 May, 11am to 5pm (closed Sundays) Admission £10, including catalogue.

(020 7493 1141; www.wartski.com)

‘Museums at Night at Apsley House’ takes place from 6pm-9pm, 18 May-19 May. Tickets cost £8.30 and are free for English Heritage members.

(0870 333 1183; www.english-heritage.org.uk)

Da Vinci vision Following on from the huge popularity of the national gallery’s blockbuster Leonardo Da Vinci: Painter At The Court Of Milan show, a new exhibition at the Queen’s gallery at Buckingham Palace offers visitors another chance to see drawings by the great Renaissance artist and inventor. in Leonardo da Vinci: Anatomist, it’s his studies of the human body that are under the spotlight. Owned by the Royal Collection, a 1489 pen and ink study of a skull sectioned is displayed along with an intricate study of the coronary vessels and valves of the heart dating back to around 1511-13. Studies of the muscles of the shoulder and arm and the bones of the foot, and fascinating annotated studies of the foetus in the womb, also represent his ground-breaking research.

A nude man from behind, c.1504-6 The Royal Collection © 2012, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

Leonardo da Vinci: Anatomist Queen’s Gallery, Buckingham Palace Road, SW1A From 4 May (020 7766 7301 www.royalcollection.org.uk)

041

Belgravia

NewS Exotic paintings, the Swinging Sixties and getting snap happy in Belgravia - there is plenty to do this May

extraordinary character In the last two decades, Ramiro Fernandez Saus has become one of the most well-known Spanish artists of his generation, with solo exhibitions reaching from Madrid and Vienna, to Belfast and Glyndebourne. His latest exhibition ‘Dreams in the Garden’ found its inspiration in a visit to the Folly Garden at Stancombe in Gloucestershire, where he was invited to stay in the newly converted Temple for a week. Tigers, monkeys, parrots and sailors remain among the cast conjured up within the grounds of this garden, but characters also travel further afield on sea voyages to exotic lands, riding blue whales and writing love letters in ship cabins.

‘Dreams in the Garden’ 10 May – 9 June Private View: 9 May, 6-8 pm Long & Ryle 4 John Islip Street, SW1P (020 7834 1434; www.longandryle.com) Monkey Breakfast, 2012, oil on canvas, 87.5 x 65.5 cm

Through the Keyhole, 2012, oil on canvas

The play is the thing

Gala launch

A fiery relationship is sparked in the haze of the 1960s, and charred by today’s brutal realities. From passion to paranoia, Love, Love, Love, the latest offering from Olivier Award-winning writer Mike Bartlett, takes on the baby boomer generation as it retires and finds itself full of trouble. Originally produced in October 2010 by Paines Plough, the show opened in Plymouth before embarking on a 14-week national tour, and recently won a UK Theatre Award for Best Play. Take your other half for an evening of thespian delight.

Classical Opera celebrates the launch of its new recording of Apollo et Hyacinthus with a complete concert performance at Cadogan Hall this month. The opera, Mozart’s first, was written when he was only eleven and premiered on 13 May 1767 in the Great Hall of Salzburg University. In an evening also featuring other works from the maestro’s extraordinary childhood, including his remarkable first symphony, artistic director Ian Page will conduct the company’s superb cast featuring acclaimed performers Lawrence Zazzo and Sophie Bevan in the title roles. A post-concert reception with the cast is included with gala tickets, where guests can pick up a CD of this rarely performed work.

‘Love Love Love’ Royal Court Theatre, Sloane Square, SW1W, 27 April until 2 June (020 7565 5000; www.royalcourttheatre.com)

042

Cadogan Hall, 5 Sloane Terrace, SW1X 14 May, 7.30pm £15-£40 (020 7730 5744; www.cadoganhall.com)

2011 Winner Yana Demi with ‘Wings of Desire’ near St Peter’s Church in Eaton Square

Say 1,000 words Inspiration for creativity can be found everywhere from a quiet corner, to street cafes, from shops to garden squares so take time to explore and capture some of the most beautiful parts of London this month with the ‘Spirit of Belgravia’ photography competition. Local estate agents and property consultant Ayrton Wylie have teamed up with The Belgravia Residents Association for the annual contest, and it’s eligible to all who live, work or study in the area. Pictures of ambient calm, vibrant dialogue or any engaging moment which clearly captures the spirit of the community can be entered.

Winning and highly commended photos will be exhibited in a local gallery and published in the Belgravia Residents Association magazine and on its website later in the year. Competition closes 31 May at midnight (register by 25 May). Prize winners will be announced in July. (www.belgraviaresidents.org.uk)

T H E M AY FA I R M A G A Z I n E

arrive and revive

The ‘Alm’ we hiked to today was an insider tip from our host. The view from here of sun-kissed mountain peaks reaching for the sky is simply spellbinding. We feel totally free, nearly giddy with joy. We might even spend the night up here. Just like the dairy maid.

For information about holidays in Austria, visit www.austria.info/treasures or call 0845 101 1818

The latest discoveries, exhibits and must-sees in the art world this month

Too, too good Only an artistic genius of the calibre of Peter Clark could turn old dressmaking patterns, stamps, book plates, staples, buttons, labels, maps and a host of other bizarre materials into impressive figurative art. Clark’s work is sold around the globe and one of Britain’s top fashion designers, Paul Smith, is a big fan, unsurprising considering the innovative and creative skills that they have in common. animals, clothes, motorbikes, handbags, fish and shoes are just some of the subjects he moulds into compositions that stun viewers with their characterisation, use of materials and amusing titles. This artist employs puns to great effect so amongst his new pieces will be a colourful fish called ‘Swimwhere’, incorporating a deep-sea diver and a ship; a cow proudly displaying its alpine bell entitled ‘Swiss Miss’ and a golden tutu named ‘Too Too Precious’. if you are looking for great art that will be a great conversation piece as well, this is your man.

‘Showtime’, 30 April – 2 June (www.r-h-g.co.uk)

Peter Clark, Too Too Precious

walk on the wild side Distinguished artist and wildlife conservationist, David Shepherd CBe, established the annual, international Wildlife artist of the Year competition to increase awareness of the threat to the world’s wildlife and to inspire artists. each year, the Mall galleries exhibits the best of the hundreds of entries which include the competition’s category winners and overall winner chosen by a panel of judges.

The gallery will be filled with exciting sculpture, paintings, ceramics, drawings and mixed-media work reflecting the broadest range of wildlife created by some of the best established and new artists. alongside it will be work by David Shepherd himself, his accomplished daughter and grandaughter, Mandy Shepherd and emily Lamb and acclaimed Masai botanical artist Riziki Kateya. Sales of the work on display will provide funds for the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation’s important projects, and to encourage future wildlife artists there will be free painting demonstrations on 22, 23 and 26 May.

Madagascar by Dafila Scott, previous overall runner-up in Wildlife Artist of the Year Competition, winner of the Abstract Category

Wildlife Artist of the Year 22-26 May (www.mallgalleries.org.uk)

Bonhams’ director, MaTThew BradBury, about newly discovered Q&A with paintings by the late Sir Stanley Spencer CBe, ra Q: Were these three paintings ‘missing pieces’ or were you unaware of their existence?

A: Both Bonhams and Professor Keith Bell (authority on the artist) were unaware of these paintings, though further research into the Tate archives found reference to the two gifted to his brother, Percy, and the third gifted to the wife of a close friend.

Q: Spencer was an Official War Artist in WW1 and WW2 but painted landscapes later in his life; do these landscapes date from the end of his career?

A: With two of the paintings recorded in 1914, these are important pre-war works of his beloved Cookham landscape, before he left for Beaufort Hospital in Bristol and then on to Salonika.

Q: How did the paintings come to your attention?

A: They came from the deceased estate of Spencer’s

Q: What is the estimate for the paintings and are specialist collectors or museums expected to bid?

A: The estimates range between £20,000-£35,000

niece, Pamela Mary Spencer, and as the works were never exhibited, this is the first time that they will be seen in public.

for each painting and Bonhams expects them to receive much interest from UK and international collectors of Sir Stanley Spencer.

T H e M AY FA I R M a g a z i n e

Sir Stanley Spencer R.A., Bellrope Meadow

20th Century British and Irish Art Auction, 30 May (www.bonhams.com)

045

EXHIBITION FOCUS SOPHIE DICKENS:

New works as 2012 celebrates the bicentenary of the birth of Charles Dickens, his great, great granddaugther presents her latest sculptures in a London gallery. BY CAROL CORDREY

Two human figures are locked in combat, one using a powerful two-arm shoulder throw to send the opponent tumbling in a circular movement. This piece is currently displayed at the ashmolean museum, oxford and is typical of sophie Dickens’ style, lightly hewn rather than precisely modeled, a style that is perfect for capturing muscular and instantaneous responses which she is renowned for and which are evident in other sporting pieces inspired by London 2012: Straight Jab where the muscular recipient conveys the full, destabilising effect of that powerful boxing punch; the rather elegant attacking move of a lunge in Fencers; Cartwheel that immediately identifies with dramatic gymnastic movements; and Dive which comprises five separate pieces that can be arranged in sequence. These athletic figures reflect her clear understanding of anatomy which she developed through art student dissections, as well as her ability to convey movement which was influenced by the late, pioneering, motion photographer, eadweard muybridge.

By way of contrast, this show will present Four Evangelists – matthew (a man), mark (a lion), Luke (an ox) and John (an eagle) – sculptures which emerged from another prestigious commission and which are currently on a popular tour of english cathedrals. Visceral yet reverential, they exude power

Sophie Dickens 17 May – 9 June (www.sladmore.com)

but Dickens likes them to be seen, also, through non-religious eyes in the role of guardians for anybody willing to step under their protective, umbrella-type wings that they are traditionally portrayed with. further historic infuences can be seen in her group of satyrs, mythological spirits who attended Bacchus, god of wine, and derived from him goat-like hooves, tails, bearded faces and horns. These features combine with the carefree, flowing movements that Dickens has given her sculptures and which suit the reputation of satyrs for drinking and generally enjoying themselves in the pursuit of fun and nymphs. even more lighthearted work comes in the form of Dickens’ pelicans which she studied in st. James’s Park, becoming fascinated and entertained by their almost prehistoric form, oversized beaks and powerful, flapping wing charges at fellow birds or unsuspecting park visitors. here, we see those strong personalities and movements captured to perfection in bold, animated shapes and although each pelican is highly appealing, they look their best as a group when the sense of character is intensified and becomes greater than the sum of its parts.

Charles Dickens triumphed at characterisation, satire and humour in his work. fittingly, so does sophie Dickens.

Above / Three Pelicans by Right, above left / Morote Seoinage by Right, above right / Satyr Pair, Life-size, Right / Fencers by

Sophie Sophie Sophie Sophie

Dickens Dickens Dickens Dickens

ART

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

047

A family concern. Since 1698

Hand-picked and sensibly priced, this is everyday drinking that’s anything but ordinary.

www.bbr.com/family

V at isit No Be . 3 rry St s’ L Ja on m do es n ’s Sh St o re p et

Over 300 years’ family experience goes into the Berrys’ own label selection.

ART

PRize LoT: BONHAMs

PoLITICAL PReSenT a stunning discovery turns out to be a gift passed between two of the most important statesmen of the late Qing Dynasty

PARTICULARS: Auction: Fine Chinese Art ExpEctEd vAluE (itEm): £400,000 to £600,000 ExpEctEd vAluE (Auction): TBC EstimAtEd rAngE: TBC no. of lots: 600 plAcE: Bonhams, 101 New Bond Street dAtE: 17 May 2012

Image courtesy of Bonhams

a magnificent and important pale green jade mountain dating from the 18th century will be the highlight of the Bonhams chinese art Sale this month. Dedicated by leading statesman Li hong zhang to Prince gong, this exceptional carving not only embodies the superb craftsmanship of the 18th century, but is a unique representation of the relationship between two of the most important emissaries of the late Qing Dynasty, who attempted to modernise china, and represented the country in diplomatic negotiations with Western powers. carved as a mountain peak with four sages on a narrow ledge above a stream, amidst a mountainous landscape with pine and wutong trees, and with a nine-character inscription incised on traces of gilt, it comes with its original carved wooden stand. Previously treasured in the Prince gong Palace in Beijing until it was sold by his grandson – the sale is an incredible opportunity to own a historically valuable work of art. (www.bonhams.com)

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

049

ART

PRize LoT: CHRISTIE’S

Charitable Cause evoke the nameless, the voiceless and the placeless with a charity auction from the Crisis Commission

With lots valued from £3,500 – £150,000, the Crisis Commission auction is offering an incredible opportunity to buy contemporary art whilst supporting a heartfelt cause. the gala auction represents a landmark opportunity to invest in works by contemporary artists who have rarely, if ever, sold together at auction before, whilst also raising much-needed funds to enable Crisis to continue its pioneering work to support single, homeless people. Responding to themes and issues relating to homelessness – isolation, property, security and space - leading artists tracey emin, antony gormley, Yinka shonibare, Bob and Roberta smith, nathan Coley, nika neelova and Jonathan Yeo have all donated new works that inspire questions as to their meaning and importance on both a societal and individual level. (www.christies.com)

PartiCulars: ExpEctEd ValuE (itEm): £25,000 - £30,000 ExpEctEd ValuE (auction): TBC EstimatEd RangE: £3,500 - £150,000 no. of lots: c.15

Trust Me, 2011 Tracey Emin (1963) © The artist, courtesy of White Cube Photography: Ben Westoby

050

placE: Christie! s, 8 King Street, St. James! s SW1Y datE: 3 May 2012

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

MY

K

are you feeling

loved?

Join The Club of Small Luxury Hotels of the World™ to enjoy instant benefits, including complimentary stays, upgrades and access to exclusive offers. After just one stay, you will be upgraded from Special to Loved member and after five stays you will become Honoured, enjoying the highest level of benefits.

It’s completely free to join, so sign up today and let the love grow!

you’ve conquered Christmas, now it’s Small Luxury Hotels of the Worldtm Experience another World

Over 520 hotels in more than 70 countries slh.com/club

CLUB THE

ART

PRIzE LoT: sotheby’s

tHE scrEaM edvard munch’s iconic expressionist masterpiece takes centre stage at sotheby’s new York

Particulars: Auction: Impressionist & Modern Art Evening Sale ExpEctEd VAluE (itEm): In excess of $80,000,000 ExpEctEd VAluE (Auction): $245,900,000 - $342,700,000 EstimAtEd RAngE: $200,000 - $80,000,000+ no. of lots: 76 plAcE: Sotheby! s New York

Edvard Munch The Scream 1895 © Sotheby’s

dAtE: 2 May 2012

Few pieces of art need no introduction; but this is certainly one of them. One of the most iconic paintings of all time, the scream’s haunting power permeates high and popular culture alike. ‘munch’s the scream is the defining image of modernity’, enthuses simon shaw, senior Vice president and head of sotheby’s impressionist & modern art department in new York. ‘instantly recognizable, this is one of very few images which transcends art history and reaches a global consciousness.’

One of four compositions, this version of the scream is presented by current owner petter Olsen – son of the friend, neighbour and patron of munch to whom the piece originally belonged – and is the only one to remain outside of the collections of norwegian museums. it is marked by its particularly vibrant colour and hand-painted frame, inscribed with a poem detailing the work’s inspiration, along with the outward-looking figures in the background. the scream will be auctioned as part of sotheby’s new York impressionist & modern art evening sale on 2 may 2012. with the auction anticipating the 150th anniversary of munch’s birth, the piece will initially be on view in London and new York for the very first time. (www.sothebys.com)

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

053

Note pad

When the oldest practice of art meets the newest technologies in the iPad the results are illuminating.

Tamsin Pickeral looks at the work of leading artist and innovator Chris Gollon as he launches his new iPad app and reveals the secrets of his trade

Love it or loathe it, there is no escape from the increasingly sophisticated web-based technology of the day with the iPad leading the way, and riding the wave of these changes is the art world. Never before has art been quite so accessible in such an interactive and informative way as it currently is, with continual improvements on the horizon.

David Hockney has brought the actual production of art works on iPads to the fore through his recent sell-out exhibition at the Royal Academy, with numerous applications now available for creating your own images.

On the commercial side, leading auction houses such as Christie’s and Sothebys bring the exhilarating world of art auctions to the iPad through their comprehensive apps that give access to auction catalogues, video feed and extensive information. From a historical, cultural and informative perspective, applications such as the new Google Art Project bring the world’s most celebrated art works into sharp focus; collections from museums around the world can be accessed from anywhere on an iPad and paintings zoomed in on, to study their intricate details far more closely than can be achieved in the ‘flesh’. The art world is truly beginning to unfold and become accessible and appealing to a much wider audience.

Most recently, a ground-breaking new app has appeared; one that brings the art, background and techniques of an artist’s work into the public realm and allows you a peek into his extraordinary life. Chris Gollon is not quite like other artists. Walking into a gallery hung with his work is akin to journeying into a different realm, one where everything is slightly off kilter and the party of life never ceases. Gollon’s work is challenging, thought-provoking and fascinating; often achingly poignant and laced through with a dry, ironic humour. He is a painter of life, or more accurately, of souls, exposing the frailties of human nature and nailing common insecurities with powerful precision – yet equally he celebrates the rawness of the human spirit. Even when painting still-life such as Still Life with Wine and Cheese IV the artist imbues his work with a characteristic human quality, seen in this piece in the sensual (and quirkily witty) liaison between the two glasses. Gollon’s work is not always easy to absorb; he does not paint pretty pictures, but ones that are defined by their complexity in both content and technique, exemplified in There Was No Remedy, an homage both to

Goya’s work of the same name from his series of prints Los Caprichos, 1799, and mysterious pagan rituals of Medieval Spain. A Gollonesque twist being the witty, cigar-smoking devil and a benevolent though helpless angel watching the inevitable condemnation unfold, these paintings are talking pieces; paintings that reach from the walls to wrestle your attention and remain in your mind long after their physical presence has been passed by.

Matching the artist’s finesse for capturing the human condition is his innovative approach to his painting and his technical mastery. This is an artist who is constantly experimenting with his technique pushing his mediums to the very extent of their possibilities, and now with the launch of his new iPad app he is revealing his secrets. Gollon has worked almost exclusively in acrylic paints for the last twenty years experimenting with the technical aspects of this medium and with printmaking. Most definitively he has absorbed subtle Old Master techniques using multiple, delicate layers of washes and glazes then adding in printmaking techniques, using rollers and rags, linear detail and even occasionally sand and textured materials. Recently he has moved into a different area of experimentation, this time with oil paints returning to the medium he used over two decades ago. While acrylics lend themselves to pure and crystalline colour, oil paints have a richness and presence, a depth and texture that gives them added visual weight. Gollon’s current experimental phase is to combine these two mediums to create images where the colour has brilliance and substance.

His printmaking is equally absorbing, in particular his use of monotypes. To create these unique, one off prints, the artist first inks a plate, then removes the ink using rags, brushes or in the case of Gollon, the nearest implement to hand, to produce the image. The plate is passed through the press with the paper absorbing the majority of the ink, rendering the plate unsuitable for a second print. The resulting works have tremendous immediacy and freshness typified by The Flute Player, one of the artist’s favourite prints. This type of printing is often referred to as the most ‘painterly’ method of printmaking.

Gollon is delightfully unassuming about his work and a character larger than life, much like his paintings and prints. He is also at the cutting edge of the new wave of art and technology – not that he would admit it. Gollon is

‘He is a painter of life, or more accurately, of souls, exposing human frailties’

ART Chris Gollon There Was No Remedy

one of the first artists to launch an iPad application that not only provides stunning visual access to his works, but also information about each specific image, and, most exciting of all, how he manages to achieve the effects that he does. the app uncovers his creative processes and his innovative techniques, being particularly illuminating with regard to acrylic painting – a medium about which little has been written (unlike oil painting) and his printmaking. the idea for this app was generated in 2009 following alan Yentob’s BBC programme Imagine, which documented gollon as he painted a commissioned work.

Liquitex, the world’s largest manufacturer of artists’ acrylic paints were fascinated by gollon’s techniques with acrylics and approached him directly to find a way of bringing these techniques to the public. the result and just a little blood, sweat and tears later, is the Chris gollon iPad app. each ultra-high resolution image on the app can be zoomed in on virtually to the grain of the canvas and as such, paintings like his extraordinary Birth (which was featured in Twilight: Breaking Dawn I) can be seen, examined and enjoyed at leisure and in minute detail. in addition information boxes describe in the artist’s own words how he has produced each effect in the painting and for art students and enthusiasts further information is provided on the exact paints, brushes and specific technical tools that have been used. a further function allows the images to be purchased in print form.

Later this year there will be short films of the artist painting and printmaking added to the app, along with parts of the ground breaking and thoroughly absorbing film Kaleidomorphism One. this 18-minute cinematic artwork by Chris gollon and JaBOD (2008), features over 500 images of gollon’s paintings, synchronized with music by Calexico, Paolo Conte and gavin Bryars (with tom Waits) – it is a visual and auditory treat. Perhaps most striking about this new app is the refreshingly humble attitude of the artist who admits to mistakes or ‘happy accidents’ when painting, but is able to allow these mishaps to evolve the painting in a new direction. this level of frankness and the wholly unpretentious voice of the artist that runs through the app makes it really engaging and encourages one to look at paintings a little more deeply and to balance an objective and subjective view. gollon is one of the first artists to launch such an app and to actively reveal his processes and materials.

Don’t be fooled though, the artist might make it sound very easy to produce such paintings, but…!

The new exhibition of Chris Gollon’s paintings, ‘There Was No Remedy’ is curated by IAP Fine Art (www. iapfineart.com or 0844 561 1833) and can be seen at Horne & Harvey Gallery, 23a St James Street, SW1A 1HA from 10 May - 8 June 2012

Chris Gollon The Flute Player

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

055

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

Final_JT_UK_N_KensingtonAndChelsea_RLT_PLM_PG_210x297_ATMO-026-12.indd 1

08.02.2012 15:52:48 Uhr

Watch

News Classic timepieces to covet now and enjoy for a lifetime

ONe tO watch of the best…

each month we select our timepiece of the moment from the watch world’s latest releases:

with a peripheral 24-hour ring, showing 24 time zones divided into black and white sections to distinguish between day and night, Iwc’s new Pilot’s watch worldtimer is an elegant and practical choice for any frequent flyer

OversIzed wrIst watches

time traveller One of the trends that was noticeable at this year’s Baselworld was the industry’s increasing fondness for the worldtimer – a timepiece that can simultaneously tell you the time in up to 37 time zones across the world. Our favourites came courtesy of Breitling (pictured above), Bremont and zenith. Featuring Breitling’s own in-house movement, the striking transocean Chrono Unitime revisits history by paying homage to an automatic watch known as Unitime developed by the company some 60 years ago. testament to the detail that goes into the company’s design process, Bremont’s first world-timer, the aLt1-Wt, is made from a stainless steel more than six times as scratch-resistant as the steel used in regular watches. it also boasts a sapphire crystal-coated dial that has been through nine phases of anti-reflective treatment. Our favourite world-timer, however, remains zenith’s Pilot Doublematic. not only is the 439-piece watch stunning to look at but it also comes with a push-button operated alarm clock and has a power reserve of 50 hours.

Pilot’s watch worldtimer £7,500, Iwc available at Selfridges

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

BRDVC4701, £5,850, Brera Orologi (www.breraorologi.com)

U42 B&B, £4,400, U-Boat (Available at Harrods)

PAM438, £10,200, Panerai (Available at Harrods)

057

Break

the rules

AnnAbel HArrison speaks to Philippe Merk, CEO of Audemars Piguet, about the company’s recent rebranding and the 40th anniversary of the iconic Royal Oak

COLLECTION

LioneL messi. michael schumacher. sachin tendulkar. novak Djokovic. Rory mcilroy. it’s usually possible to discern the calibre and key characteristics of a brand by the ambassadors on board. if this is the case, audemars Piguet can only be considered a leader in its field. this roll-call lists some of the greatest sportsmen in the world and all happen to be ambassadors of aP. Why? the brand state that ‘they come from different fields, but they share our love of creativity and independence.’ this may be true, but i’d argue this impressive line-up embodies the brand philosophy ‘to break the rules, you must first master them,’ even more, especially if you replace ‘rules’ with ‘records’. tendulkar, for example, the most successful cricketer in history, has perfected his craft to such an extent that he recently became the first batsman to score 100 centuries at international level, mastering the rules and then defying every limitation in terms of age, injury and level of success.

this rule-breaking slogan forms a key part of the new ad campaign and concerns one particular timepiece from the aP stable; the iconic Royal oak. this year sees the 40th anniversary of the watch that sent shockwaves through the industry in 1972 as the first haute horology sports watch to treat steel as a precious metal. the principle behind it four decades ago was ‘Body of steel, heart of gold’ and apparently, legend has it that this model, immediately recognisable thanks to its octagonal bezel secured by eight hexagonal screws, was designed in one night. its name and its design have an ancient, royal and naval heritage; in 1651, King Charles ii found refuge from pursuers in the hollow of an ancient oak and the moniker Royal oak was subsequently adopted by the Royal navy for a series of vessels, which distinguished themselves in action. the porthole, a symbol of the high seas, became the starting point in terms of design. it is surely a mark of the status of this watch that Ceo Philippe merk

Legend has it that the Royal Oak model, immediately recognisable thanks to its octagonal bezel secured by eight hexagonal screws, was designed in one night

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

059

chooses to wear the Extra-Thin Royal Oak 15202 and that the company is celebrating four decades of this model by means of a series of unique, ephemeral exhibitions around the world: ‘It is the first time we have put together 100 unique Royal Oak timepieces for Royal Oak fans around the world.’ For this exhibition, launched in New York in March and travelling to main cities around the world for the rest of the year, Audemars has partnered with Dan Holdsworth, Quayola and Sebastien Agnesseens; ‘Their work reveals the connection between the relationship of man and nature, as well as man and time-keeping. It shows how watchmaking began amongst the farmers of the Vallée de Joux, the birthplace of Audemars Piguet, and how the incredible complex movements made today, were created because of man’s curiosity and quest to discover the mysteries of nature.’

However, despite being so synonymous with the brand, the Royal Oak is relatively young within AP’s history, which stretches back to 1875. Passionate about watchmaking and mastering the art of precision, Jules-Louis Audemars joined forces with Edward-Auguste Piguet to develop and craft watches equipped with complex mechanisms. Remarkably, Audemars Piguet has never since left the hands of the descendants of its founding families, the oldest of the Swiss fine watchmaking manufacturers still able to boast this accolade. Merk, who came to the family business from Maurice Lacroix – where he had received ‘an excellent introduction to the watch industry’ – deems being part of such a reputed company and a leader in the luxury timepieces ‘a challenging, intense and rewarding experience.’ He praises the company for qualities including a spirit of independence – ‘a true sign of stability’ – a rich heritage, strong origins and values, years of experience and a shared family vision.

Merk is ideally placed to comment on recent changes and trends in luxury watchmaking, ‘such a volatile industry where pressure is high and short term decisions can cause irreversible mistakes.’ He agrees that consumer behaviour has evolved noticeably since the crisis: ‘There are less impulsive purchases; people think more in terms of investment rather than coup de coeur [impulse buys]. Consumers went back to basics, to the essence of watchmaking and to high-end or luxury brands that have strong foundations and origins like Audemars Piguet. The crisis has re-centred the market on more timeless values.’ Nor can one ignore the rapidly growing markets in Asia and Latin America, ‘taking the lead [in] creating a whole new set of customer groups.’

Of importance, Merk also notes, is the rise of new media and ways of communicating: ‘Brands are more than ever directly exposed to their customers who are increasingly knowledgeable and who through social

What distinguishes AP from its competitors is the combination of ‘history, origins, mastery and artistry’ and ‘extraordinary modernity and progressive design’ media and networking have become opinion leaders.’

I find this particularly interesting; in other areas of the luxury industries, such as fashion, the companies paying the most attention to digital and social media, for example industry leader Burberry, are powering ahead of their competition. It bodes well that AP, despite being a venerable family watchmaking business, is firmly anchored in the technology-driven 21st century.

And this is what distinguishes Audemars Piguet from its competitors; ‘on the one hand, the combination of history, origins, mastery, artistry and on the other, extraordinary modernity and progressive design. While other brands may like to be seen as heirlooms, Audemars Piguet is a brand for the here and now, to be worn by connoisseurs who respect the past but are making their own future.’ Is it possible to describe a typical wearer of the brand? ‘AP lovers are successful men and women with a strong personality who appreciate a certain avantgardism while respecting the canons and criterions of Haute Horlogerie. They are people who share Audemars Piguet’s values of passion, inspiration, exclusivity; they love the idea of having the ultimate luxury timepiece that offers the best of both worlds, traditional high watch making with innovative designs.’

The biggest pool of AP lovers is to be found in Asia, currently the biggest market in sales, closely

COLLECTION

followed by europe: ‘the asian market is well informed on luxury... [and] they are great aP enthusiasts who follow the brand closely.’ With regards to the future, as seems to be the consensus across the luxury industry, ‘one can safely assume that the asian market is going to remain strong over the next few years while european markets get on the road to recovery.’

For audemars Piguet at least, continuity is the key word and in terms of expansion, in addition to the 22 audemars Piguet boutiques worldwide, ‘there are a number of boutiques undergoing renovations and scheduled to open in 2012, mainly based in europe, the middle east and the United States.’ this year also sees the company celebrating two decades of the audemars Piguet Foundation. this was created on the Royal Oak’s 20th anniversary; devoted from the outset to the cause of reforestation, for the last eight years, the Foundation has spearheaded worldwide environmental education for children and the newest ventures include the restoration of 500 hectares of woodland at 17 locations in Scotland, the training of biodiversity guards in ecuador, the revitalisation of mangroves in Senegal, and tree-planting and support for practical environmental education in Jaipur District, india. it seems that audemars Piguet has both its head and its heart in the right place. (www.audemarspiguet.com)

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

061

THE SIENNA COLLECTION Inspired by the Renaissance Masters, The Sienna Collection reincarnates the artist’s love of colour and creativity. The Sienna Cuff and The Sienna Chandelier drop earrings both feature a superb array of mandarin garnets, pink spinels and diamonds set in yellow gold.

The Sienna Collection is truly inspired by a timeless period in European history which celebrated beauty through the adornment of majestic gems.

UNITED KINGDOM

AUSTRALIA

The Royal Arcade, Old Bond St, Mayfair London W1S 4SW

Sydney Gold Coast

calleija.com

Jewellery

N ews Jewels, gems, pearls and diamonds; the essential components of any lady’s jewellery collection

BAseLworLd 2012 this spring, an unassuming town in Switzerland was bombarded once again by the largest and most prestigious watch and jewellery trade show; Baselworld. Spread over 160,000 square metres, the top brands in the watch and jewellery business were proud to show off their latest collections.

Bulgari’s italian style was as strong as ever with large cabochon-cut stones and vivid colours. harry Winston’s windows glistened with a thousand diamonds following the launch of its latest Ultimate adornments collection, while not far away, family-owned company Chopard reminded its competitors why it was also a firm favourite at this year’s Oscars, showcasing an array of red carpet showstoppers. in time for summer, De grisogono shed its familiar black tones and went for myriad colours; big, bold and bright, it was all about making a statement. as Creative Director Fawaz gruosi put it, ‘colour makes everyone happy.’

of the best from BAseLworLd

Black sapphire dial watch set with brilliant cut diamonds £48,400, Bulgari (www.bulgari.com)

CuttiNg edge Staging a comeback to jewellery, the Sacred Fire Odyssey collection

by Lalique, seen at this year’s Baselworld, is a modern update of their original drawings. inspired by the fire goddess Vesta, of greek and Roman mythology, it includes 100 exquisite pieces, one of which is our pick for this month’s must-have item.

An odyssey continues in the Lalique inspirations, which are reborn from their ashes like the phoenix, in a collection of crystal and diamond in fusion... in symbolic shapes, ringlets of hair-like arabesques entwining and interlacing to infinity, at last the mystery of this journey is revealed: that of the sacred Fire, the precious element Phoenix yellow gold necklace £7,040, Lalique (www.cristallalique.fr)

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

Jiya ring in pink gold with black and white diamonds From a selection, De grisogono (www.degrisogono.com)

Quatre gold pavé ring £3,050, Boucheron (www.boucheron.com)

063

COLLECTION

Jewels for Hope

Belle Époque diamond and emerald flower necklace, ‘Eglantine’, Cartier, estimate: $600,000-$800,000 www.cartier.com Photography: Denis Hayoun - Diode SA

following Baselworld, the jewellery industry did not have long to wait before another important event was marked down in its calendar

‘Jewels for hope’, the sale of lily safra’s astounding collection of 70 jewels for charitable institutions, will take place this 14 may in geneva. including fine antique and period jewellery, as well as important diamonds, rubies and sapphires, in amongst mrs safra’s jewels are 18 pieces by Jar – the largest private assortment of the parisian jeweller’s creations ever to be offered at auction. what is so unique about this collection, is the way in which the collector has incorporated the old and the new; a stunning example of Belle Époque design, the ‘eglantine’ necklace, formed as a wreath of diamond leaves and dog rose flower-heads, was created by Cartier and dates back to 1906. the colour green, synonymous with hope and rebirth, permeates the entire collection and is illustrated here by the emerald decoration on the necklace. another favourite of ours is the Jar ruby and diamond Camellia flower brooch; made in 2003, it is an beautiful piece of craftsmanship. twenty different charities have altogether been selected by mrs safra for the sale; with causes ranging from medical research to children’s aid and it is estimated to realise in excess of $20 million.

064

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

P L E A S E E N J OY O U R C H A M PA G N E R E S P O N S I B LY DRINKAWARE .CO.UK

CoLLeCtIoN

4

3

5

6 2 1

7

13 12 10

11

8

Best of

Baselworld

9

the highlight of the jewellery calendar, Baselworld showcased exquisite new pieces 1-3 Ultimate adornments Caftan diamond ring, earrings, feather and diamond timepiece, all from a selection, harry Winston (www.harrywinston.com) 4 18-carat white gold peacock necklace with akoya cultured pearls, diamonds, sapphires, green garnets, aquamarine and tanzanite, from a selection, mikimoto (www.mikimoto.co.uk)

5-7 Pear-shape diamond necklace, cluster earrings and line bracelet, set in platinum, as worn to the academy awards by Penelope Cruz, all from a selection, Chopard (www.chopard.com) 8-10 Bonton Clori earrings in white gold and diamonds, £7,900, atelier ring in diamonds, white gold and tanzanite, £82,300, atelier ring in white gold and diamonds, £73,500, all Pasquale Bruni (www.pasqualebruni.com) 11-13 Ruban de Lumière earrings, impératrice Pompon Diamant necklace, Vagabonde Bleue ring in 18-carat white gold and silver with 618 white diamonds and sapphires totaling 18.79 carats, all from a selection, Fabergé (www.faberge.com)

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

067

COLLECTION

1

2

3

12 5

4

6

11

American RETRO

7 8

take inspiration from 1950s america with palm-woven Panama hats, american long-wing brogues and vintage round-lens shades

10 9

1 Panama hat, £120, Drake’s London (www.drakes-london.com) 2 C9 harrison Jumping hour watch, £1,150 (www.christopherward.co.uk) 3 Woven waxed cotton belt, £280, Loro Piana, 153 new Bond Street (www.loropiana.com) 4 everyday Desk Journal, £49, noble mcmillan (www.noblemacmillan.com) 5 Leather driving gloves, £89, aspinal, 25 Brook Street (www.aspinaloflondon.com) 6 the Soloist round sunglasses, £320, Oliver Peoples (www.oliverpeoples.com) 7 Curved handle golfing umbrella, £99, Swaine adeney Brigg (www.mrporter.com) 8 maestro Quantieme a aiguille watch, £1,750, Raymond Weil available at harrods 9 Brown and white Sid brogues, £195, grenson, grenson Select at tim Little Shoes (www.timlittle.com) 10 Stonyhurst medium chest, £1,299, halo Living (www.haloliving.co.uk) 11 Contrast spot reversible print scarf, £235, Drake’s London, as before 12 the Bel-air safe, £200,000, Doettling (www.doettling.com) 068

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

Swiss movement, English heart

C9 HARRISON AUTOMATIC CHRONOGRAPH LIMITED EDITION ÂŁ850.00

Swiss made / 25 jewel customised automatic chronograph movement / 250-piece limited edition / Exhibition backplate / Premium-grade Louisiana alligator strap / Anti-reflective sapphire crystal / Diameter: 43mm / Calibre: ETA 7750.

E XC LU S I V E LY AVA I L A B L E AT

ChristopherWard_KensingtonChelsea.indd 1

christopherward.co.uk

05/04/2012 08:03

BLUE

Print Photographer:

Elizabeth Gibson

Fashion:

Charlie Moore

Chiffon top, £325, Isabel Marant at Matches (0870 067 8838); Jeans, £190, Current/Elliot at Oxygen Boutique (020 7636 6001); Crystal swirl ring, £38, Crystal dome ring, £28, Crystal swirl bracelet, £68, Rhinestone bracelet, £68, Crystal chain (on jeans), £198 - all Butler & Wilson (020 7409 2955)

Cotton canvas trench coat, from £700, Sportmax (020 7518 8010); Fishnet tights, £5.65, Jonathan Aston (01277 232 301); Crystal swirl cuff, £68, Crystal earrings, £48, Crystal dome ring, £28 and Silver necklace (worn as belt), £78 - all Butler & Wilson (020 7409 2955); Gold, gunmetal and crystal ring, £255, Sahani at Kabiri (020 7317 2155)

Silk and lace dress, £1,790, Roberto Cavalli (www.net-a-porter.com); Silk sleeveless shirt (under dress), £250, Paule Ka (www.harrods.com); Brass and faux pearl earrings, £320, Lanvin at Matches (0870 067 8838); Rhinestone bracelet, £68, Crystal flower ring, £34, Pewter crystal necklace, £148 - all Butler & Wilson (020 7409 2955)

Silk and cotton dress, £699, Clements Ribeiro at Fenwick (020 7629 9161); Pewter necklace, £78, Crystal floral ring, £34, Rhinestone bracelet, £68 - all Butler & Wilson (020 7409 2955); Crystal bracelet, £295, Jane Taylor Millinery (www.janetaylormillinery.com); Leather belt, £55, Diamante belt, £49 - both Twiggy at Fenwick (020 7629 9161)

Cotton blend shirt, £220, Etro (www.net a porter.com); Cotton trousers, £230, D&G at (www.my-wardrobe.com); Leather clutch, £295, Lemaresca (www.lemaresca.com); Lapis cabouchon clip earrings, £365, Oscar De Le Renta (www.net a porter.com); Silver cuffs, from £125, Alice Menter (www.alicementer.co.uk); Pewter necklace (worn as belt), £78, Butler & Wilson (020 7409 2955); Gold, gunmetal and crystal ring, £255, Sahani at Kabiri (020 7317 2155); Leather sandals, £860, Manolo Blahnik (020 7352 8622)

Silk jumpsuit, £1,150, Stella McCartney at Harvey Nichols (020 7235 5000); Silk tux jacket, £1,350, Billionaire Italian Couture (020 7245 0096); Crystal necklace, £178, Swirl crystal bracelet, £68, Crystal dome ring, £28, Crystal bracelets, £58 each - all Butler & Wilson (020 7409 2955); Leather belt, £55, Twiggy at Fenwick (020 7629 9161)

Cotton dress, £1,365, erdem at Harvey Nichols (020 7235 5000); silver and gold plated crystal hoop earrings, £325, sahani at kabiri (020 7317 2155); Crystal floral ring, £34, Butler & Wilson (020 7409 2955); Crystal bracelet, £295, Jane Taylor Millinery (www.janetaylormillinery.com); pewter and crystal belt, £1,163, erickson Beamon (020 7259 0202) Make-up: Carrie Jones, using armani Hair: James Langan using L’Oréal professionnel MOdeLs: Tatjana at profile Models

FASHION

Crowns and Ballgowns Continuing in the Jubillee spirit, harrods is collaborating with a number of luxury fashion brands to showcase a stunning ‘crowns and ballgowns’ collection which will be shown in a magnificent display across the façade of harrods. From 15 may, the store will unveil a dedicated pop-up ballgown boutique in celebration of the V&a’s spectacular exhibition, Ballgowns: British glamour since 1950, featuring exquisite fairytale brands, including erdem, marchesa, Carolina herrera and elie Saab. (www.harrods.com)

By ELLE BLAKEMAN

Her Channel chanel Delve into a world of fine jewellery, perfume and Coco Chanel herself, with the release of three exquisite volumes that promise to inject some serious style into any bookshelf. Chanel Luxe is a beautiful trilogy, presented in the label’s signature quilted leather and adorned with the famous double ‘C’ – the ultimate collector’s item for lovers of the French fashion house.

‘Chanel Luxe’ by François Baudot and François Aveline, £475 (www.net-a-porter.com)

Best of British iconic store Selfridges is preparing to launch the biggest display of retail theatre and in-store excitements in its 103-year history.

From 4 may and running until the end of august, the store will present the Big British Bang – a memorable mash-up of British culture, history and tradition. From the iconic to the eccentric, not forgetting the royals or the rebels, the exclusive collaborations celebrate all that is great about Britain. (www.selfridges.com)

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

The new, new look it’s official, there’s a new girl in town, and she’s got a brand new bag. the Del Rey bag released this month is the latest addition to mulberry’s covetable collection of bags and promises to beat even its predecessor, the alexa. ‘i love Lana Del Rey’s references to bygone glamour and her retrospective look. this inspired a bag that was timeless with a beautiful practicality,’ says creative director emma hill. ‘the Del Ray was designed to be a modern classic; practical, refined and timeless with a touch of Lana’s signiture glamour and mystique. available in several shades, including petrol, burgundy and deer brown, let the nostaligia continue…

Del Rey bag, £795, Mulberry (www.mulberry.com)

079

FASHION

Paul Smith Cycling Jersey: £99.95 Bike: Price upon request

Made to measure in another exclusive for the iconic Knightsbridge department store, harrods are offering a unique made-to-measure tailoring service. expert tailors from international menswear designers visit the store to provide consultation and fittings on selected days. Previous designers include tom Ford and ermenegildo zegna, with armani, Lanvin and Loro Piana still to come. For those with an eye for quality, this is an opportunity not to be missed.

Available at Harrods throughout April and May (020 7730 1234; www.harrods.com)

By lucy haenlein

Artful design art and fashion combine once again, this time through the new Crombie Spring Summer 2012 collection, inspired by legendary artist David hockney, who is clearly the man of the moment after the recent Ra sellout exhibit. the British label have given an edge to some of their casual and classic tailored pieces, with soft blue hues and bright palette of red and green, distinct in hockey’s abstract work. this spectrum of vivid colour gives the label a fresh approach, while remaining effortlessly timeless, and comes just in time for summer.

48 Conduit Street, W1S (020 7434 2886; www.crombie.co.uk)

080

Him

On your bike in the capital’s most thrilling year for sport, iconic brand Paul Smith has unveiled a new exclusive cycling collection, exclusively for harrods. a lifelong enthusiast, the British designer created the bold graphic printed t-shirts and jerseys for the Rapha + Paul Smith line, inspired by his time at the Beeston Cycling Club in nottingham where he started bike racing. the inside back pocket of each jersey features a quote and picture of Smith’s race licence from when he was aged 16 and has a distinctly vintage feel, in a nod to his personal archive of cycling jerseys. the new range even includes a made-to-order bicycle service, where each unique bike will be finished with a luxury leather saddle from world-renowned British manufacturer Brooks.

The Paul Smith pop-up is on the fifth floor of Harrods (020 7730 1234; www.harrods.com)

Skin saviour this month sees the launch of Shiseido’s active energizing Concentrate, a new serum to correct skin damage caused by everyday fatigue, shaving and environmental stress - a great product for anyone who needs to give their skin a little tLC. aided by energeticel technology, and a damage defence complex that leaves skin replenished, the concentrate works to reverse fine lines and lack of firmness that can make you look older.

Active Energizing Concentrate, £51, available at House of Fraser (www.houseoffraser.co.uk)

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

WINDSURF TECHNOLOGY

59 South Audley Street, Mayfair 68/69 Burlington Arcade, Piccadilly HARRYSOFLONDON.COM

HIRSH L O N D O N

SYNERGY COLLECTION HANDMADE IN PLATINUM

Famous For Engagement Rings www.hirshlondon.com

WEST END 56-57 BURLINGTON ARCADE W1J 0QN - T +44 (0)20 7499 6814 - CITY 9 HATTON GARDEN EC1N 8AH - T +44 (0)20 7831 3333

CanaryWharfMay2012.indd 1

29/03/2012 16:04

Closet

perfectionist For all those women with wardrobe fatigue, fighting to find that missing skirt or unable to style an outfit from a bursting closet, why not consider a total overhaul with the help of the professionals? The Mayfair Magazine finds out more…

PerhaPs we’d be going a little far to suggest you’re a full-on Carrie Bradshaw with shoes in the oven and dresses hanging in the shower, but if the thought of flicking through your wardrobe makes you feel anxious rather than excited, it may be time for a closet clear-out. as chic city girls grow ever more frustrated with the lack of storage space in their London properties (ruining their potentially perfect collection of garments, shoes and accessories in the process), wardrobe services are experiencing a rapidly growing demand.

Vault Couture is one such wardrobe management and logistics service, fast becoming one of the most well respected in London. Founded by glamorous businesswoman Mounissa Chodieva (also head of Investor and Public relations for eNrC) following a personal wardrobe crisis, the company now offers a range of practical services for the modern woman. specifically designed for time-pressed affluent individuals (who may also experience wardrobe chaos due to frequent travel), Vault Couture can organise, catalogue and store all clothing – even styling and transporting outfits when needed. If the thought of a pristine, perfectly organised closet has you feeling giddy, just imagine flying overseas without having to worry about crumpled gowns, squashed shoes or juggling garment bags!

‘We all need help with something, nobody can be good at everything’ reasons personal stylist and wardrobe

expert sarah hogan, who also offers a choice of wardrobe services. ‘Women are so time-poor these days.

I need a personal trainer, and I need someone to help me with my accounts – this is the same thing. I see women spend a fortune on childcare and housekeeping but neglect to invest in themselves looking good everyday.’ so what’s the first step?

Whether or not you decide on the full-whack concierge style package or a one-to-one session of home wardrobe management, the first step is organising your closet. The team at Vault Couture expertly organises your wardrobe at home as the first step of any package, ensuring that all remaining garments are re-hung, folded or archived, leaving your closet fully colour-coordinated and easy to navigate.

In a similar vein, hogan ogan offers two services; Wardrobe Detox (including clear out and sale of unwanted clothes) and Wardrobe Management (a full re-arrangement of the wardrobe, using the best closet accessories to maximise the visibility of each item, creating a neat, colour-coded, seasonal closet with all accessories presented in a highly visible way).

‘Women often have “clear out wardrobe” on their to-do list for a year and will not be able to find the time, but by booking a day with me, the time to do that is secured,’ says hogan. ‘at the end of this session they have an edited, pared-down wardrobe in an immaculately neat closet which makes getting dressed effortless and fun.’ however, if clearing out and organising is just

‘Women are so time-poor these days. I need a personal trainer, and someone to help with my accounts – this is the same thing’

FASHION

the beginning, and you need a more serious method of storage, Vault Couture offers the additional service of professional cataloguing. Photographs are taken of each garment and accessory from every angle before being bar-coded, to provide full details of the garments history (including alterations, dry cleaning and condition). Clients are then able to access their full collection 24 hours a day via a unique iPad app, which can be used together with styling and storage of the garments.

Following cataloguing, items can either be returned to the clients’ homes, or stored at the vault. these personal vaults are newly built, state-of-the-art, humidity controlled, air-purified facilities, which boast full security and the finest storage conditions for all garments. all barcodes and personal information is stored on the company’s online database for clients to access through their online catalogue and as part of the ultimate concierge service for your wardrobe, clients can arrange immediate global delivery of garments to anywhere in the world!

So for all those women who are frustrated with their wardrobes every morning, and for whom the dream of a walk-in closet is yet to be realized, why not give a clothing management service a call and take the first step in making this essential part of life more enjoyable and convenient.

For more information on Vault Couture, visit www.vaultcouture.com Visit www.sarahhoganstylist.com for more details on Sarah’s styling and wardrobe packages

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

085

                                    .         

Interiors

News Update your home with the latest interiors products from fabulous wallpaper to decadent finishing touches

wall to wall When it comes to choosing a paint colour, there are many factors to take into consideration: architecture, the purpose of a room and above all, light. try this Stony ground colour from renowned paint and wallpaper specialist Farrow & Ball – sure to create a beautiful scheme for any style of home.

Wall: Stony Ground® No.211 Estate® Emulsion Woodwork and Fireplace: Shaded White No.201 Estate® Eggshell (www.farrowandball.com)

ClassiC Vs CoNtemporary - Kitchen Classic Stay true to english roots with this timeless and elegant piece of furniture which is hand-made and sturdy enough for constant, daily use. this dressing cabinet design from the Kitchen Dresser Company can be made to measure in a number of vibrant colours, as well as worktop and handle options, using the very highest quality materials and made with traditional cabinet-making skills.

The Malthouse Dresser, from £2,245 (www.thekitchendresser.co.uk)

Contemporary

Finishing touches make a statement with a bold chandelier above your dining table. the vintage crystal drops in this intricate genesis Light Crystal design evoke visions of the tree of Life, luminous with fruit.

Schonbek Genesis Chandelier £6,330 (www.keslighting.co.uk)

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

Spring is the perfect time to think about a redesign for the hub of the house. Bespoke kitchen designers bulthaup are longtime experts in the field of contemporary kitchen design, currently celebrating the 25th anniversary of their flagship mayfair showroom. the company specialises in individual kitchen projects to satisfy even the toughest architectural and design demands. this cabinet provides a sleek, contemporary way to house and display kitchen equipment and is paired, as part of the ‘b2’ concept, with an equally smart workbench. bulthaup b2 workbench and cabinet, priced on request (www.bulthaup-mayfair.co.uk)

087

The great

indoors

INTERIORS

london-based interior designer Katharine Pooley is renowned for creating unique and flawless designs.

Lucy HaenLein hears from the woman herself glancing at Katharine Pooley’s biography, you may be forgiven for having expected something rather different to the refined, glamorous designs which epitomise her work. a serial traveller, her website tells me, ‘she has summited many of the world’s highest mountains, driven a team of dogs on a sled to the north Pole and crossed the Sahara on horseback’. a world away, it would appear, from the restrained elegance of her designs. But look hard enough, and an incredibly diverse range of influences pop out from within these interiors.

Pooley particularly draws on east asian methods of composition as she creates meticulously balanced interiors; each piece artfully placed to form a harmony of space and colour. ‘i have great respect for the Japanese belief that the space around an object is as important as the object itself’ she says. ‘the importance of every individual piece having a simple and elegant beauty, and being positioned carefully, no matter how opulent or large the overall design, is something i try to bring to every space. a great interior should not assault the senses, but should combine differences in scale, texture, light and colour to create interest that will contain value over and above fashion.’

Pooley is adamant about remaining flexible and receptive to all kinds of factors. From new build palaces in Qatar to Scottish castles; a host of central london properties to heathrow terminal 5 lounges, she has tuned her visual eye to the subtleties of each specific project, taking in factors of culture, taste, and personal preference. ‘there is no one dogmatic way to design. i try to remain open to advice, ideas and inspiration from all people and places around me.’

Katharine’s aesthetic antennae have been put to good use not only in her commissioned interior designs, but in her flagship Walton Street Boutique and new harrods concession. ‘i source the products from all over the world and select each item for its exclusive character and quality of craftsmanship - bringing beautiful items made by skilled artisans from around the globe together under one roof. many of the new items are limited edition and have been created bespoke for the boutique’. and now, adamant not to rest on her laurels, she is turning her hand to property development. the woman really does never stop. ever the adventurer, Katharine appears determined never to be complacent: ‘if you don’t take risks with design you continually repeat the usual and the boring.’

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

089

INTERIORS

‘I have great respect for the Japanese belief that the space around an object is as important as the object itself’

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

091

INTERIORS

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

093

INTERIORS

What lies bENEaTh

are wine cellars the new walk-in wardrobes? and how do you fit one into your home without ruining your carefully planned aesthetic? Mike Peake looks at the reasons for having a dedicated space just for your wine

‘a cellar for your favourite wines is now as desirable as a walk-in wardrobe’ said the lady from The Daily Telegraph in 2010, who went on to point out that both Daniel radcliffe and mark owen had one. But the reasons for installing a state-of-the-art wine storage set-up chez vous go way beyond celebrity trends, they are in full flow. Part investment, part somewhere to impress the dinner guests (though probably more of the latter), dedicated wine space is steadily becoming an enviable addition to the finest homes. whether it’s a temperaturecontrolled, bespoke cabinet, a sexy cellar sunk into the dining room floor or the majestic conversion of an existing room into a dedicated place of wine worship, these domestic temples to Bordeaux, Burgundy and beyond are seriously on trend. while the trend for wine space, architecturally speaking, has traditionally been to go down, people are now also thinking laterally – literally. imagine that broom cupboard with fine, hand-made oak shelving, sleek glass doors and some elegant lighting. now add a couple of hundred bottles of your favourite tipple – and what was once a forgotten corner is suddenly a rather alluring feature. ‘we’ve seen several changes in what people want since we started doing this in 1989,’ says sebastian riley-smith at luxury wine room and cabinet makers smith & taylor. ‘one was a switch from underground to overground. the traditional wine cellar does, of course, still exist, but people like the idea of being able to store wine just off a dining room or in view of a hallway. in a sense, people want to make it more conspicuous.’

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

Being conspicuous and an unmistakable ‘wow’ factor are very much at the heart of the success of spiral cellars, whose delightful, cylindrical wine rooms can be dropped into almost any hole you ask them to dig. when lucy hargreaves, her husband and a third partner took over the 25-year-old company eight years ago, they were quick to introduce a chic new range of trapdoors, including a glass one. this window to their underground worlds was an instant hit, and helped the company find a trend-setting new audience. no longer were wine cellars just for oenologists; they were for people who rather liked the idea of showing off a little, too. ‘we did some research into our buyers and found that a lot of them work in the city, have a household income of £400,000-plus a year, own a couple of decent cars and are typically in their 30s and 40s,’ says lucy. ‘i think the reason we’ve grown so quickly is because we have tapped into this niche: our buyers are people who wanted something in their home to be proud of, something slick and desirable.’ a decade ago, spiral cellars customers were almost exclusively wine buffs. now, lucy says, buyers often ‘don’t have a clue about wine,’ but they do know they want an eye-catching feature for their house. the wine knowledge comes later, often with the help of experts who can steer them towards a top-notch selection. and that’s half the fun. you don’t need to know a saint Émilion from a médoc to enjoy a custom-built wine space: there’s something quietly magical about running a finger along row after row of wines in your own home. in her

095

acclaimed 2000 novel Blackberry Wine, author of Chocolat Joanne Harris imbued her bottles with their own personalities; these living, breathing entities would jostle and jink with excitement when something interesting was going on. Your bottles probably won’t, of course, but that sense of touching something with its own story – and something that is hopefully improving by a tiny percentage every day – all adds to the allure of storing wine at home.

It’s a thrill that is sorely missing when wine collections are kept in a warehouse.

‘If you’re a collector, there’s just something to be said for having your wine at home,’ says Martin Stoner at The Stone Cellar Company, whose range of stylish modular cellars can be installed in around two weeks. ‘A lot of people who come to us have maybe 1,500 bottles stored in a warehouse but simply like the idea of having them around,’ he says.

Whilst wine rooms and cellars are far from inexpensive, you could argue that the maths does eventually work in your favour. A hundred cases of wine could easily cost upwards of £1,000 per year to store with the professionals, so Stone Cellar’s entry-level, hexagonal model at around £13,000 might just pay for itself in a little over a decade. Spiral Cellars’s creations start at £12,835 and rise to over £25,000, while a bespoke Smith & Taylor room can cost, ‘anything from £50,000 to a quarter-of-amillion,’ although the company does some rather nice bespoke wine cabinets for a fraction of that.

Whatever your budget, it definitely is worth speaking to the experts. Wine needs to be stored at a pretty constant 13 degrees to thrive, and as Rosie Caley of London Wine Rooms points out, ‘There’s no use in having wine cubby holes off the end of the kitchen or hall as these have the greatest oscillation of temperature in the house. It is changes in temperature rather than the temperature itself that damages wine.’

Not unlike Smith & Taylor, London Wine Rooms specialise in luxurious bespoke creations, with clients typically spending upwards of £30,000 and looking for

something that looks, ‘really cool,’ according to Rosie. At the moment, she says, that means large glass panels, slate, timber, huge glass doors and sophisticated lighting.

With London Wine Rooms and Smith & Taylor servicing the bespoke end of the market and Spiral Cellars and The Stone Cellar Company delivering desirable pre-cast wine space, the options are seemingly endless.

And it appears that nothing is out of the question. ‘We’ve two projects in London,’ says Lucy at Spiral Cellars, ‘where people are going down not just one storey but two; full basements are being dug under terraced houses, and so our cellar ends up being the third storey underground.

That’s quite a challenge.’

It sounds messy, too, and in the interests of investigative journalism, we probably should have had one put in (on expenses) just to verify Lucy’s claims that the installation process is not as disruptive as you might think.

The hole is dug by hand, she says, and the earth is carted away in a wheelbarrow; there’s no JCB poking a mechanical hand through patio doors or a Manitou messing up the oak floorboards. Meticulous sheeting further helps keep things clean.

‘People are amazed by the installation process,’ says Lucy. ‘They often take pictures of the work each evening to chart the progress and can’t believe how quickly it all happens. They’re also surprised how big the cellar is once it’s in. They sometimes think it might be a bit cramped, but it’s not at all.’

A luxury cellar or dedicated wine room sounds right up my street. There’d be an end to late night dashes to the off-licence. And no more frantic calls to the warehouse asking them to dig out a crate for a weekend get-together – just quiet contemplation in my own little wine sanctuary.

Who wouldn’t raise a glass to that? www.londonwinerooms.co.uk www.stonecellar.co.uk www.smithandtaylor.com www.spiralcellars.com

INTERIORS

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

097

You have our attention.

When you charter a private jet with Chapman Freeborn, our entire focus is on you.

We understand that time is precious and can offer you the ultimate luxury of more time to spend any way you choose. Travel at times that suit you, to and from the most convenient airports, in control of every element of your journey.

Chapman Freeborn has been providing attentive yet discreet private air charter solutions for four decades. Our multilingual charter experts are available 24/7/365 worldwide, offering the full range of aircraft that can be carefully matched to your requirements.

You can expect more from the world’s largest aircraft charter broker.

For advice or a quote for your next trip, call us on +44 (0)1293 572888, email us at privatetravel@chapman-freeborn.com or visit us at www.chapman-freeborn.com

Scan to download our Private Jet iPhone app.

CF Runwild ad.indd 1

05/04/2012 15:46

INTERIORS

Outside in spring is the perfect time to be inspired by nature

as the days get longer and the evenings balmier, Londoners find themselves drawn irresistibly outside. With the threat of some British rain, we look at ways to bring the outside in. expansive French windows break up the solidity of external walls, diminishing the barriers between the outdoors, and invite the sun to stream in. White or pastel walls reflect the light and create a greater sense of space, with similarly toned furnishings to enhance the effect. spring-clean away oppressive heavy carpets and dark wooden floors, replacing them with fresh painted wooden boards - directed towards doorways and windows they extend their line beyond conventional boundaries. mirror outdoor greenery with plenty of indoor plants, with the odd dash of more vibrant hues from fresh flowers, artwork, and upholstery.

Image courtesy of Quick-Step (www.quick-step.com) Polar Oak Matt flooring from the Castello collection

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

099

Tech in colour Katie RichaRdson checks out a range of the boldest gadgets available in some of this season’s hottest gloss colours

Smart move One of the first smart TVs to launch, Loewe set the bar high with its hugely successful Connect TV. Characterized by the networking of numerous multimedia applications, the Loewe MediaPortal now brings together advanced multimedia functions in the newest models. The innovative MediaNet function allows the integration of online content into the home entertainment system, from videos to music, to news and radio. Instant access to pictures, music and videos from the home network is simple – and music, Blu-ray movies and games can be enjoyed in their sharpest ever setting. In addition, the new Loewe Connect 3D flat-screen TV, with quartz glass enriches the picture with spectacular 3D effect.

Loewe connect tV, from £1,395, harrods (www.harrods.com). the connect Led is available in a range of colours including high Gloss Black, high Gloss White and chrome silver.

TECHNOLOGY

1

2

4

3 5

8

7

6

9

1.

Diva Coffee machine, £525, Bugatti, available at amara (www.amara.co.uk)

2. air Speaker, £649, Loewe, available at harrods (www.harrods.com)

3. Pentax K-01 camera by mark newson, £699, available at harrods (www.harrods.com)

4. Ferrari hasselblad camera, £23,999, available at harrods (www.harrods.com)

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

10

5. the Stylus for Capacitive Screens, griffin technology, £19.99 (www.griffintechnology.com)

6. hi-fi wireless stereo speakers, from £899, zikmu Parrot by Starck, available at harrods (www.harrods.com)

7. a pair of meridian Select DSP loudspeakers,

8. BeoCom 2 telephone, £500, Bang & Olufsen (www.bang-olufsen.com)

9. t12 Soundbar, from £299, Orbitsound (www.orbitsound.com)

10. model One Frost White Collection radio, £219, trivoli audio (www.tivoliaudio.com)

start from £19,000 (www.meridian-audio.com)

101

The new sporT of

kings The new polo season heralds a change in the rules and a new, faster version of the game. Ashwin BhArdwAj investigates the roots of the sport through to its modern Hurlingham home

FEATURE

Polo is undergoing something of a revolution. once a little-known sport played out in hampshire or the exclusive setting of guards Polo Club in the Crown estate, polo has developed into a grander spectacle, drawing in bigger crowds and being taken up by more people than ever.

But whilst evolving with the times, polo is also returning to its roots – the perfectly manicured lawns of the hurlingham Club of Fulham, south West london. it was here, in 1876, that the second recorded game of polo was played in the united Kingdom and it was the home of all uK and Commonwealth polo from 1900 until 1939. the pitch was even home to england’s olympic polo triumph – the ground was the venue for the final of the polo competition, when london hosted the olympics in 1908 – and in the early 20th century it was the ground that every polo player – from argentina to assam – wanted to play on. all that changed in 1939 when, as part of patriotic solidarity, the pitch was turned into allotments to help provide food for a famished london.

But while it would be another 70 years before the fields of hurlingham would see another divot trod in anger, the name of hurlingham was to become eternally entwined with the game of polo: the rules of polo as laid down by the hurlingham Polo association (hPa) became the rules by which 80% of the world’s polo games would be played. now, after a 70-year hiatus, polo returned to hurlingham Park in the guise of the high-octane mint Polo in the Park event. this three-day festival is the ultimate polo experience, the only tournament of its kind in the world, held here in central london. it has a truly international flavour, with six global teams – ig index team sydney, City am team delhi, mint team london, Camino real team Buenos aires, otkritie team moscow and mandarin oriental hyde Park team abu dhabi – competing for glory. tens of thousands from the cream of london society come down to sip champagne in the sunshine, as the world’s finest players thunder past on athletic ponies that turn on a sixpence and stop on a dime, the echo of stick-on-ball sounding around the arena. last year, the tournament took the revolutionary step of updating the game to a faster, more exciting version: the pitch is octagonal, rather than the normal quadrangle of field polo, so the ball spends more time in play; the pitch is smaller meaning the players are engaged more often, and not spending so much time galloping up and down between goals; a scoring system that encourages players to take riskier, more dramatic

shots from long range leads for more excitement; and to ensure players have more time on the ball and more space to manoeuvre. Finally, there are only three players instead of the usual four. all this may sound like heresy to the polo purist, but adapting to circumstance and demand is something that has long been a part of polo’s heritage. indeed the origins of polo can be found in the bizarre game of Buzkashi – the national sport of afghanistan – which played out as a form of bonding and competition between the horse-lords of Central asia, often turning into a pitched battle between teams numbering in their hundreds. rather than playing with a stick and ball, the game is played with a dead goat, carried the length of the pitch to deposit over a line. to do so, you merely have to negotiate warrior tribesmen trying to alleviate you of your burden.

By the time this risky form of entertainment had crossed the hindu Kush, the teams had been reduced to bare dozens, and the sport was being played by the rulers of india’s Princely states, rather than excitable ghazis and Pashtuns. this tempered-down version was discovered by the British during their indian adventure – first seen played by the court of the maharajas in the summer hill stations of darjeeling and assam. the British officer class, full of cavalry enthusiasts, quickly took up this exciting sport and before long the memsahibs were cheering on their men in the country clubs of empire – evolving it into the social occasion that made hurlingham one of the most popular destinations for the elite of edwardian society. and whatever changes have been made to the rules, the draw of polo remains the same: a sporting attraction that appeals to both genders as they socialise in genteel surroundings, attentive staff topping up one’s Pimms as hot-blooded excitement charges past mere yards from your canapés. mint Polo in the Park has become an integral part of the ‘summer season’ – a quintessentially British event. it has introduced thousands of city-folk to a sport that had, for many years, been confined to the country. and it’s a trend that shows no sign of slowing. Polo may have started as a horse-back version of British Bulldog, but it’s found its true home in the social calendar of modern london: it is a mix of contemporary and heritage; of elegance and adrenaline; of glamour and equine industriousness. Polo has made its way from the steppe of Central asia to the steps of london society.

‘Adapting to circumstance and demand has long been part of polo’s heritage’

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

103

Top of the world On road or track, there are few cars that can touch the latest Porsche 911, reports Matthew Carter

MOTORING

there’s a line from an old song by the Who – Won’t Get Fooled Again – that goes ‘…meet the new boss, same as the old boss.’ it regularly gets wheeled out when motoring hacks talk about the latest iteration of the Porsche 911. no doubt it’ll happen with the very latest 911, known to aficionados by its internal moniker 991, but this would be plain wrong. Yes, it’s the new boss but, silhouette aside, it’s a long way from being the same as the old one.

Car makers often refer to their latest model as the ‘all-new…’ when little more than a badge has changed. however, despite looking like, well, every 911 since the line began in 1963, the new model really is all new. it’s longer for starters, with an extra 100mm in the wheelbase for great stability at speed and a little extra room inside the cabin though, as ever, the rear seats are best used as extra storage rather than for seating adults. it has a wider front track and new front and rear end styling while real fans will

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

also spot the steeper rake of the windscreen.

Despite the car being bigger it’s considerably lighter than before. extensive use of aluminium in the frame means the basic body is 80 kilograms lighter, though with extra kit as standard the overall weight loss is around 40 kilograms. and, yes, the new 911 is stiffer, stronger and safer as well as being more powerful, yet more economical: better, on paper, in almost every respect.

Does that translate into better on the road? You better believe it does. at this early stage of the car’s life, there are four different types available in the UK: Carrera (350hp) in Coupé and Cabriolet forms and the more powerful Carrera s, also in tin-top and open guises. a four-wheel drive Carrera 4, turbo and any number of stripped-out specials – gt2, gt3 and so forth – will follow before long. so, only four to choose from but they’re all here to play with, on road and track. to get to

105

MOTORING

thruxton, one of the fastest circuits in the UK, i use the manual Carrera Coupé. On an extended loop over various sinuous roads near the circuit, i try out a Carrera Coupé S with the PDK dual clutch semi-automatic transmission.

PDK ‘S’ cars in both open and closed forms are used on the track while for the run home i transfer to a Coupé S with the manual ‘box. that’s the lot covered and they are all extraordinarily good. Standard road cars on race circuits are usually a huge compromise: they are invariably too soft to attack the track seriously while the brakes tend to run out of ability too quickly (at about the same time as the amateur driver’s ability goes out of the window). But not this 911. OK, we weren’t driving at full out race pace, but it was plenty quick enough and the new Porsche just got on with flattering my attempts to emulate a professional. Breathtaking acceleration was matched by confident stopping power, while the handling was awesome; plenty of grip when needed yet the chassis was just as ready to drift when the conditions allowed.

On the road, where most 911s will spend their lives – despite the availability of the Sports Chrono pack with a dash-mounted stopwatch and a racing start programme – Porsche’s finest is difficult to fault. ample, instantly accessible power, coupled to a chassis finetuned to provide unflappable handling with a remarkably resilient ride, make every trip in the new 911 an event. even the steering, now featuring electro-mechanical power assistance – usually a disaster for those seeking accurate feedback from the wheel – is better than ever. Changes to the interior, some of which have been inspired by the luxury Panamera saloon, raise the tone. Put simply, the new 911 offers supercar performance in every respect, but without the supercar compromises (or lofty price). even so, of the four versions currently available there’s one, for me at any rate, that’s out front. it’s a Coupé rather than the Convertible – an open car at speed involves too much noise and wind buffeting – and it’s got to be the S. While the 350hp of the ‘ordinary’ Carrera is probably sufficient for most needs, when there’s another 50hp on offer, you just would, wouldn’t you? the 3.8-litre six-cylinder ‘boxer’ engine in the S has 15 more horses than before, taking its tally to a nice round 400. to complete my perfect Porsche, i’d specify the PDK transmission, even if it adds £2,387 to the price.

106

In brIef Car:

Porsche Carrera S PDK PrICe:

£83,629 engIne:

3,800cc, 6-cylinder petrol Power:

400 hp PerformanCe:

188 mph max, 0-62 mph in 4.1 seconds DrIve:

Rear-wheel drive, seven-speed dual clutch-automatic

the new Carrera is the first car in the world to have a seven-speed manual gearbox as standard, with ratios stacked so close together that gear shifts mean a change in engine revs of only around 500rpm each time. this means the engine is always on the boil for acceleration that, if you’re in the mood, will literally take your breath away. the seventh ratio, which can only be accessed from fifth or sixth, is an overdrive designed to lower engine revs and improve economy when cruising. there is, however, just one ‘but’. With so many to choose from, the manual gate is narrow and there’s a strong spring-loaded bias designed to help you slot it into gear but which, all too often, means you get the wrong one: i lost count of the times i went from sixth to third when i wanted fifth. my co-driving colleague even managed to find reverse when he wanted to be first to get away from a set of lights.

When making a choice, there are many reasons why the PDK is the one to have. gear shifts – whether the ‘box is left to its own devices or when performed by the driver – are quicker than the manual and deliver better performance against the clock. the PDK is more economical too and (whisper it) in many ways is more involving. Just make sure you go for the optional paddle shifts that sit behind the steering wheel; the standard shifters are little buttons on the wheel itself and all too easy to press by mistake.

While you’re ticking the options boxes, add PDCC (Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control). an electronically controlled box of tricks, PDCC takes an already formidable chassis and simply makes it better. Pitch and roll are all but eliminated and the system works with the new electric power steering to provide greater precision and feedback. and in an in-for-a-penny move, you won’t regret ticking the sports exhaust option box: the sound is awesome, especially when you floor it in a tunnel. that little lot will take the price to around £88,000 which, frankly, is very little to pay for a machine with this ability. You always could use a 911 every day, but the new one makes an even more compelling case for itself. it’s more refined, yet more fun. it’s faster, yet more frugal – it even has stop/start to lower emissions and improve economy; its 34.4 mpg is family hatchback good.

Little wonder, perhaps, that’s it’s just been voted World Performance Car of the Year. time for Ferrari, aston et al to meet the new boss, better than the old boss.

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

For further information please contact - Argento Fine Products Ltd: T 020 7722 2438, info@agďƒžneproducts.com

Left Sitting

Courtside?

Our specialist units provide expert management for all orthopaedic conditions, including:

Knee, Shoulder, Hand & Wrist, and Hip & Groin injuries

020 7483 5148 www.thewellingtonhospital.com

Travel

News the places to see this month and the must-have pieces and insider advice to get you there

Don’t leave home without…

shorT hauL Vs LoNg hauL

Fujifilm’s new X-Pro 1 camera, complete with luxury globe-trotter embossed leather case, created to celebrate the opening of the new technology department in harrods.

Only a dozen will be available – so snap one up quickly (pun intended).

The Globe-Trotter case, including Fujifilm’s X-Pro1, £5,695 (www.harrods.com)

short haul:

Long haul:

Rathfinny Winery, East Sussex Rathfinny, england’s largest vineyard, was created this year with the first 50 of the 400 acre site being planted in march. ex-hedge fund owner mark Driver aims to produce over a million bottles a year when the east Sussex vineyard reaches its peak. Four grape varieties have gone to the ground – Chardonnay, Pinot noir, Pinot meunier and Riesling. Whilst some will be still, Rathfinny will be a predominantly sparkling wine vineyard, with high hopes to be held in the same regard as Bollinger and Pol Roger. With soil conditions almost identical to the Champagne region and a south facing location, sheltered from south-westerly winds by a ridge, only time will tell whether the Sussex sparkly will be received favourably when it arrives on shelves in 2016.

Parts of the natural chalk downland estate will be open to the public via nature trails, and the national trust is onboard to create wildlife corridors for ramblers and drinkers alike to admire.

Inglenook Winery, Napa Valley, California Film director Francis Coppola and his wife eleanor have, along with its original name, restored the historic inglenook estate to its former design, allowing the wines to once again be fermented and cellared in traditional fashion. the original first bore the fruits of founder gustave niebaum’s labour in 1879, at which time the winery was a pioneer of the gravity-flow production system which is commonplace now in more modern times. What began as a family retreat has taken the Coppola’s 30 years to restore to its former glory, and has now regained its position as one of the premiere wineries in the Cab Sav region.

(www.rathfinnyestate.com)

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

From $50 per person for tastings and a guided tour of the Chateau. Reservations are recommended (707 968 1177; www.inglenook.com) London to San Francisco in May with British Airways: return fares start from £517 Economy, £3,278 Business and £8,483 First Class (www.britishairways.com; 0871 909 2303)

By invitation only Start your holiday on the right foot with the new ViP option available at heathrow. heathrow by invitation is a service offering ViP suites separate from the main airport. Benefits include a secluded kerbside drop-off and pick-up point; exclusive terminal entrance; a luxurious private suite (where ViP hosts speed up private check-in, luggage drop-off, customs and passport control), a private security search area; and onward travel by limousine or helicopter. (www.heathrowbyinvitation.com)

The best advice we’ve ever heard…

‘Holidays are about experiences and people, and tuning into what you feel like doing at that moment. Enjoy not having to look at a watch’ - Dame Evelyn Glennie

109

City of

Dreams

The stylish and historic city of Florence charms Olivia Platt-HePwOrtH with its springtime glory

TRAVEL

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

111

You could be forgiven for thinking that you’ve ticked Tuscany off your ‘places to see’ list. With the region soaring to popularity in the last decade due to novels such as frances Mayes’s Under the Tuscan Sun, many of us took our own pilgrimages to the region to enjoy its rich history, culture and simple fare and wine.

Yet, the enduring appeal of florence draws you back to experience its incredible visual art museums, history, craftsmanship and gastronomic delights. The city has a proud and long history of oozing style and luxury, and this is still apparent today with the stylish boutiques, hotels and restaurants that line the streets. florence is acknowledged as having been the sun of the italian renaissance, when it rose to becoming italy’s financial powerhouse. The moneyed families that lived in florence bestowed their riches on construction, art and public buildings, symbolising power and strength.

The gothic duomo that was built with typical Tuscan white, green and pink marble still dominates the city’s skyline and the historic centre with its enormous octagonal dome. one of the largest cathedrals in the world, the building was used to demonstrate the city’s growing influence. in addition to architecture, artists including Michaelangelo, donatello, botticelli and da vinci were all recipients of support from these Tuscan families, including the bourgeois Medici family who dominated from the 14th century. one of the highlights of florence is visiting the many galleries, not least the extensive uffizi and the galleria dell’Accadamia to see artworks including Michaelangelo’s legendary ‘david’ sculpture.

Staying on the river Arno is an absolute. Hotel lungarno is an impressive, restored 16th-century residence that watches over the river and is located at the less touristy side of the Ponte vecchio, ‘the bridge of gold’.

The luxury hotel was bought by the ferragamo group in the mid-1990s whereupon extensive renovations were undertaken on the hotel before it opened in 1997. florentine interior designer, Michele bönan, created the look and feel of an aristocratic residence with the use of subtle-hued fabrics and carpets and antique furniture throughout the hotel. bönan’s inspiration was the feeling of being in a ship sailing down the river when standing inside the hotel.

‘This period townhouse is the only one that literally sits over the Arno. colours of blue and white were used to accentuate the sense of endlessly drifting on the Arno, with the Ponte vecchio, florence’s iconic symbol, as your visual point of reference. i wanted to create the sense of sailing, the constant river view contrasted beautifully with that of a cozy home’ he says. complimenting these features are the 400 works of art that adorn the walls in the lobby, lounge area, guest rooms and suites. Thought to be one of the biggest private collections in florence, works including those by Pablo Picasso, and Jean cocteau, were inherited from the previous owner of the residence.

The hotel’s location on the river is best enjoyed at sunset. An enormous arch-shaped window in its restaurant allows diners to appreciate the rich colours of the buildings on the other side of the Arno. Two grand mirrors have been perfectly positioned at opposite ends of the restaurant to evoke a sense of infinite space as reflections of the water and the sky dance on the walls. it is from the restaurant that diners can look across to Palazzo Spini feroni, a medieval palace that was acquired by fashion designer Salvatore ferragamo in 1938.

The palazzo, which was used as the company headquarters and as ferragamo’s main workshop, is now a museum. it shows its masterpieces of

TRAVEL

17th and 18th century Florentine art, as well as exhibitions on Ferragamo’s collections, patents and sketches.

Countless pairs of shoes are the centerpiece to the museum, showing the detail and craftsmanship that encouraged film stars, including Sophia Loren and audrey hepburn, to wear his sought after designs. this craftsmanship has been at the centre of Florence’s main industries for centuries. it is reputed that in the 15th century, the city had more woodcarvers than butchers, hinting at the profound importance that was placed on handmade goods in the city. it was also at the height of this period that perfumery developed into an art and was reputed to be the most prestigious in europe under the guidance of Caterina de’ medici, whose father was Lorenzo de medici, Duke of Urbino and ruler of Florence. it was this heritage of fragrances, spices and essences that led tuscan-born Lorenzo Villoresi to develop his passion into a profession. his extensive travel throughout the middle east as an academic fuelled his interest and it was here that he began collecting and experimenting with pure oils and essences for family and friends. this led to his first commission for fashion house, Fendi. after several projects with other fashion houses, Villoresi developed his first collection.

Using oils rather than alcohol to make his perfumes, candles and items for the home including pot pourri and incense, Villoresi draws on over 1,500 ingredients. all aspects of production are still carried out according to traditional methods, which require patience and meticulous care. the self-taught and award-winning artisan (in 2006 he won the Prix Coty - an international award which can only be awarded once in a perfumer’s

lifetime) was one of the first to initiate the trend of bespoke perfumes, made through a personal exchange with the client.

From his atelier that is situated on ‘the Oltrarno’, which literally means ‘across the other side of the arno’, he explains his role as a scent ‘translator’. ‘through conversations with the client, the insights and stories that they reveal, i attempt to translate their beliefs, memories, experiences, ambitions and dreams into a fragrant product,’ says Villoresi. next year, he plans to extend his atelier into an academy, a research centre, a library and an aromatic garden with plants from all over the world. it seems that just like the constant flow of the River arno, so too is the repetitive presence of Florence’s craftsmen in the city from throughout history to the present.

Stefano Bemer is the owner of a made-to-measure shoe business that he established from humble beginnings as a repair store in Chianti before moving to Florence. his store is also located on the Oltrarno, along with many other artisans’ studios and antique stores, which are in contrast to the vast and grand Palazzo Pitti, a Renaissance palace whose former residents include the medicis.

Stepping into the front of his piccolo, charming store and workshop is like stepping back in time. it smells of leather and wood and one of his two assistants taps nails into the sole of a shoe that is being painstakingly made from materials such as swordfish, shark and calfskin. the process allows us to ensure that not only will they receive a beautifully made product, it will also become the most comfortable pair of shoes they own’ says Bemer.Due to the precise attention that is given to make each pair of shoes that are

‘Florence is acknowledged as the sun of the Italian Renaissance, when it rose to become Italy’s financial powerhouse’

Hotel Lungarno

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

113

TRAVEL

fulfilled to his clients’ exact wishes; only 180 pairs are made annually. aside from craftsmanship, Florence’s renowned heritage of visual arts and food and wine continues to satisfy today.

Rather than trudging through the city’s streets to find the perfect dining experience, enlisting the help of a luxury tour agency allows visitors to spend time relishing in all the city has to offer.

Set up by a prominent italian-american family, One Step Closer arranges luxurious and personalised experiences based on themes that reflect both clients’ tastes and the best aspects of tuscany: art and culture; food and wine; and active pursuits.

One tour focuses on the medici family and their patronage to the arts and buildings in the city. the guide takes visitors from the medicis’ original residence in Palazzo medici Riccardi, to the Palazzo Vecchio followed by a private opening of the Vasari Corridor. Places to eat and drink are also recommended and one can choose to invoke the medici family and dine at a stylish eatery, such as Ristorante alle murate. Founding partner, Valentina grossi Orzalesi, recommends the authentic tuscan restaurant, Cibero, alongside La Botte, a wine bar near the Santa Croce and apt for a pre-dinner aperitif.

She also recommends visiting Palazzo Strozzi, one of the finest examples of Renaissance domestic architecture, which hosts three major annual exhibitions. it is currently showing impressionist exhibition, Americans in Florence: Sargent and the American Impressionists. the Strozzi is also in perfect proximity to a number of high fashion boutiques for those who want to mix the pleasures of shopping and art.

114

Above / Hotel Lungarno

Abercrombie & Kent offer three nights in a Relaxing Double B&B with private transfers & BA flights London – Pisa costs from £845pp. To book visit www.abercrombiekent.co.uk or call 0845 618 2213 This price also includes: Complimentary access to the Ferragamo museum, €50 Gift certificate for minimum spend of €300 and upgrade upon arrival (subject to availability).

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

MINT THE HURLINGHAM CLUB & PARK, FULHAM, LONDON SW6

‘The Best Corporate Day Out’ - as voted by CITY AM Winner of ‘Best Sports Attraction’ - London Lifestyle Awards 2010 & 2011 This sensational three day event kicks off the weekend with a fabulous corporate day offering world class polo from six international teams, with fully inclusive hospitality plus the new ‘Veuve Clicquot at Hurlingham’ evening launch party.

Enjoy a classic British summer day out; three polo matches, Veuve Clicquot Champagne, lunch at the iconic Hurlingham Club - the historic home of polo - a quintessential afternoon cream tea and to finish the day off, a rocking party with live music and guest DJ’s.

An exciting range of hospitality options to suit all budgets with prices from just £150 plus VAT per person.

Book now for a remarkable experience.

Telephone 0207 936 5284 or email rachel@cityevents.uk.com.

www.mintpolointhepark.com

XXXXXX

Kate harrison enjoys a romantic weekend in Florence at a restored, aesthetic marvel of a hotel where it’s all part of the process to come, see and stay in bed

Lobby, The Chedi © Chad Buchanan

Paradise found in PARIS as the winter darkness fades, The Mayfair Magazine steps into Paris, and rediscovers the city of love Paris is, of course, beautiful all year round – every season frames the ‘city of love’ in a different, magnificent light – but there is something particularly beautiful about Paris in springtime, as the city awakens from a cold winter and the air along the river seine is filled with the heady scent of blossom. a mere bunny hop from London via eurostar, Paris is the ideal destination for a weekend away; the city centre is perfect for exploring on foot and in such fresh spring weather, you wouldn’t want to miss a moment by travelling via the metro.

For a real experience of springtime in Paris, don’t miss a relaxing turn around the Jardin du Luxembourg, just south of st-germain-des-Prés; think lush, green, leafy gardens and sparkling fountains, designed in an elegant French style in 1612 at the palace built for marie de medici, regent of France. stop for a rest and coffee at the grand Bassin where Parisian boys and girls delight in sailing their boats, or explore the nineteenth century orangery where the 200 plants are starting to awaken. alternatively, take a stroll in Parc andre Citroën (rue Balard, 75015), which was once the site of the famous car factory. take in the unique layout of the green space where various landscapers have created eclectic, unusual and even themed gardens across 14 hectares complete with surprising features such as computer-controlled fountains and stepping-stones!

From its stunning riverside walks and charming café culture, to the luxurious boulevards and exquisite haute-couture boutiques, Paris is the epitome of chic city life. With the city’s finest points magnified in the glorious spring sunshine, visit the city now before the heat and tourists descend.

Eurostar (08705 186 186; www.eurostar.com) runs from St Pancras International to Paris Gare du Nord. Return fares start from £69 standard and £245 business premier.

116

WHERE TO STAY Le Pavillon des Lettres (www.pavillondeslettres.com) is Paris’s first literary-inspired hotel: paying homage to chic French design alongside literary greats of the past. each one of the achingly stylish 26 rooms reflects the works of a named author, ranging from hans Christian anderson (a) to emile zola (z). Carefully chosen texts on the walls contribute towards reflection and for extra special visits guests may choose from ‘Les Belles Lettres’ and ‘Les romantiques’ – the two top-floor suites with breath-taking views of the eiffel tower and the grand Palais.

When you step out, guests are ideally located for a springtime stroll; the hotel is within walking distance of the avenue des Champs-Élysées and Le Jardin des tuileries.

EATING & DRINKING the hotel du nord (www.hoteldunord.org) continues with the literary theme, as diners are led behind a row of bookshelves into the restaurant where the menu offers simple dishes and seasonal specials. For a grander option, Le mini Palais, has a menu designed by eric Frechon, holder of three stars in the michelin guide, and is set beneath mighty imperial columns overlooking the seine at the southern end of the grand Palais (www.grandpalais. fr). Finally, visitors to the city must sample a cup of molten chocolate at angelina’s tea room (www.groupe-bertrand.com/angelina), where Coco Chanel was once a regular.

MAYFAIR RECOMMENDS take a tour of the city with 4 roues sous 1 Parapluie (‘four wheels under one umbrella’). First designed in the thirties, the Deux Chevaux car will take you all over Paris covering the main avenues and the hidden backstreets - a fantastically fun way of sightseeing (www.4roues-sous-1parapluie.com).

Paris by night is an entirely different creature, and for a taste of the exotic why not book tickets to one of the shows at Crazy horse. here, the stunning dancers, move in line with mesmerizing light projections that accentuate and shadow their bodies in a sensuous, elegant and mysterious display of dance.

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

XXXXXX

‘Rendez-vous Rive Gauche’ 70cm hand-rolled vintage silk twill scarf, £210 (uk.hermes.com)

Nude cigarette trousers, Joseph, £175 (www.my-wardrobe.com)

Navy ‘Henrietta’ ballet flats, French Sole, £94 (www.frenchsole.com)

‘Loretta’ navy crepe dress, £855, Azzaro (www.matchesfashion.com)

Striped cotton-jersey dress, Sonia by Sonia Rykiel, £175 (www.net-a-porter.com)

Nano Gold Energising Eye Serum, Chantecaille, £179 (uk.spacenk.com)

Le Vernis nail colour in ‘Holiday’, Chanel, £18 available from 25 May (www.harrods.com) Drop-shoulder blouse, L’Agence, £335 (www.matchesfashion.com)

Sue Worsted Wool Blazer, Elizabeth & James, £385 (www.my-wardrobe.com)

ALS:

ENTI SE ESS

A

SUITC

ust for g is a m entials, a b l e v rry tra -luggage ess As you Mulbe d itcase. ction classic ugh for han is h T our su : o y le n in e ty in s t t y n je fi in m Travel egulars - roo oesn’t quite f for an insta r d r a t r c a s Eurosta anything th ant Hermes ss . with vibr n chic n agele along row on this Parisia hieve a rgizing f c o a d n th Ene yes a arrive, tired e o Gold r adds ay with le’s new Nan is nail colou w a o D il n : s the a r s e c e e h v V te a tc must-h ss with Chan ‘Holiday’ Le k – and ma ty u a e o B w ne lo e fresh nel’s vivid ne rwise classic gamin o the Cha . o y . tl n m c a nch. T u r fe the Fre nce’s Eye Se personality to ar f per e c k s li e f quit ’Age a bit o by s and L ck style laid-ba ude trouser ps like these l s e o d n y fu m y d u le o la p p b p t o e im s N all this e chic: oseph’s me simple b stripe with Daytim look, team J n o s to Bre with get the y cut blouse e the classic iel dress. ing ac yk r full R b ti ia u m a e e even n e o r b into th hristian ole. O ia by S S ly n s o s h S e c tl n Fre effor ude C e look s and n arry th Azzaro dres C : r u o oes. legant g glam Evenin simple and e uboutin’s sh o is L th t h e M AY wFitAhI R m a g a z i n e

Oversized travel bag in ‘Shiny Oak’, Mulberry, £1,250 (www.selfridges.com)

Nude leather ‘Pigalle Jazz’ shoes, Christian Louboutin, £375 (www.christianlouboutin.com)

117

Combining the excellence and experience of The Wellington Hospital, The Platinum Medical Centre provides only the best in private healthcare

Platinum Medical Centre, 15-17 Lodge Road, St Johns Wood, London, NW8 8NX Tel 020 7483 5148

www.theplatinummedicalcentre.com

HEALTH & BEAUTY

1

2

3

4 Photography: Natalia Pupo © Shutterstock.com

6

7

Beauty

News take a tip from the catwalks this season and be pretty in pink with our pick of the top S/S beauty products

of the best... summer fragrances Diptyque Philosykos fragrance, £50 (www.spacenk.com)

Plum Blossom Cologne, from £36, Jo Malone London (www.jomalone.com)

Valentina Eau de Parfum, from £40, Valentino (020 7494 6220)

1 Daywear BB Cream, £34, estée Lauder (www.harrods.com) 2 Blushwear Cream Stick in Peachy Blush, £20, Clinique (www.clinique.com) 3 météorites Cruel gardénia, £41, guerlain (www.harrods.com) 4 Lip gloss in Pink Lover, £28, By terry (www.spacenk.com) 5 nail colour in Rose exubérant, £18, Chanel (www.chanel.com) 6 Dior garden Clutch, £55, Dior (www.christiandior.com) 7 the Lip Balm, £40, Crème de la mer (www.selfridges.com) t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

5

TREATMENT OF THE MONTH to say he is London’s leading hair colourist would be an understatement; Daniel galvin holds worldwide acclaim for his outstanding cut and colour skills and he’s based right here in mayfair.

Within the hallowed walls of his salon, every colourist is trained in-house to use Daniel’s unique techniques. this year the salon celebrates 35 years of success, so it’s the perfect time to experience Daniel’s ‘look’, with a subtle, natural colour to compliment your eyes, skin tone and style, and finish with an expert new cut. in addition, don’t miss the salon’s tempting Olympic beauty menu; we love the Dg Boxing KO offer of a Luxury Paraffin Wax mani for an extra £35.

Finish your pampering session with a visit to the Salon Bar Café for a delicious smoothie or healthy lunch, and you’ll leave feeling a whole new you.

Colour treatments from £82 - £525 Daniel Galvin; 58-60 George Street, London W1U 7ET; 020 7486 9661 (www.danielgalvin.com)

119

Spa RetReat

Home & Away ELLE BLAKEMAN discovers two luxurious Eastern-inspired spas, one in the heart of Mayfair and the other a little further afield, and finds two very different examples of beauty rituals

The May Fair Hotel, Mayfair The May Fair Hotel has much to shout about. Nestled in the heart of London, the hotel, and the spa within it provides a welcome and indulgent retreat from the relentless pace of city life. Walking in to the spa is like stepping out of central London, straight into a Thai retreat; a comforting warmth envelopes you as soon as you open the door, alongside the scent of lemongrass and Thai orchards. Rich molten and chocolate browns make for a calming, seductive colour scheme, a million miles away from the busy streets outside. Most enchantingly, their private steam chamber even has tiny lights in the ceiling to simulate a clear evening sky.

As a mark of their commitment to your total relaxation, the May Fair Hotel Spa’s therapists strongly encourage guests to set aside time before and after treatment to completely unwind. The steam room and sauna provide the perfect pre-treatment warm-up, with a relaxation room to continue the experience well beyond the allocated time. Pad across the heated floor from one of the seven treatment rooms to a lightly warmed marble lounger, and absorb the calm atmosphere with a herbal tea in hand.

The treatments are diverse, from more conventional facials, and massages to, perhaps most exotically, the Golden Caviar Facial – involving the application of extract of caviar in order to boost the skins moisture levels, and protect against environmental signs of aging. You will leave with refined pores and beautifully balanced, silk-like skin. All have been expertly tweaked from a range of worldwide inspiration to provide every desirable alternative for both men and women. The Algotherm ‘Jetlag Reviver package’ is particularly comprehensive, combining a mud-bath with a full body aroma massage, re-mineralising wrap, and Vichy shower.

But if this utter self-indulgence leaves you feeling a little tetchy, and you can’t quite relax, the spa does provide an exclusive and state-of-the-art member’s Health Club. If you’re seeking total tranquillity of body and mind in the capital, The May Fair Hotel Spa is the place to hide. (www.themayfairhotel.co.uk)

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Barceló Asia Gardens, Spain asia is indeed spa heaven, but it’s also far from the streets of mayfair. For those looking for a restorative spa break without the jet-lag inducing 16-hour flight, Barceló asia gardens is ideal. a Balinese-style five-star hotel and thai spa in western Spain, asia gardens is happily less than three hours away. the hotel, built with careful homage to asian-architecture with pyramid shaped pavilions and traditional thatched roofs, lays in the foothills of the Sierra Cortina mountains. it was built in an acre of pine forest, allowing for the lush settings that more than justify the ‘gardens’ claim, while granting a beautiful overview of the mediterranean coast. Once you are inside you will forget that you are just an hour off gmt; the grounds are stunning and sprawling, featuring exquisite greenery, waterfalls and seven interlinking pools, which all conspire to help with the Far-eastern illusion. the hidden little pockets of the place will allow you to feel totally isolated, and despite an impressive 312 guest rooms, you will probably feel as though you are the only guests here. the asian theme follows into the spa which takes inspiration from thailand. a true haven of rest and relaxation, the spa is very separate from the rest of the hotel, with its own gardens, hydrotherapy pool, outdoor swimming area and turkish steam bath. it’s still and utterly peaceful, with floating flower petals and soft colours at every turn. there are four treatment cabins within the spa, where you can have a treatment alone, or with a partner, and two of these have low tatami-style beds for traditional thai massage. this is their signature treatment, and what the spa is rightly famous for. Beginning with the cleansing ritual of feet washing, the thai therapist then sets about pulling and pushing your body into a relaxed, fluid state through ancient methods. at the end of the massage, long-held tension is released and your body begins to feel as it should before late nights in the office and long to-do lists took their inevitable toll. at the end of your treatment, head to the dedicated pool, which is surrounded by huge and decadent beds, encouraging you not to rush back into the real world. When you are ready, and there’s no rush, take a dip in the jacuzzi hidden within the spa garden and take in the mountain views. (www.asiagardens.co.uk) (Monarch, operates year round flights to Alicante from London airports with fares, including taxes, starting from £38.99 one way (£69.50 return). For further information visit www.monarch.co.uk)

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

121

HEALTH PROMOTION

PCOS - The forgotten condition Professor Ellis Downes, consultant gynaecologist at The Wellington Hospital, discusses Poly-Cystic Ovarian Syndrome, a condition affecting millions of women in the UK

P

oly-Cystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a common condition affecting up to 10% of women and is one of the most common causes of sub-fertility, as it creates problems with ovulation.

PCOS is so-named due to the ultrasound appearance of lots of small, harmless cysts found on the ovary. These can lead to higher than normal levels of male hormones, chiefly testosterone, which can cause weight gain, heavy irregular periods, lack of ovulation and an increase in body or facial hair. PCOS can develop spontaneously, most commonly in the teenage years, twenties or thirties; interestingly, recent research has identified that it also has a genetic element.

SymptomS PCOS causes: • Excessive body hair • Irregular or light periods • Problems getting pregnant • Weight gain • Acne • Hair loss from the head If you have some, or all of these symptoms, you might have PCOS.

DiagnoSiS anD treatmentS PCOS is diagnosed by a combination of an ultrasound scan examination of the ovaries, and hormone blood tests taken on the first few days of the menstrual cycle.

Treatment for PCOS consists of lifestyle measures in combination with hormone treatment. Hormone treatment can be very effective to regulate periods, treat excess body and facial hair or to get the ovaries ovulating regularly. The exact treatment depends on the underlying symptoms, and is generally very successful.

Any woman worried she may have PCOS should see a gynaecologist, who can carry out investigations that hopefully lead to prompt successful treatment.

Meet

More information about PCOS is available at www.verity-pcos.org.uk Verity is an excellent charity which raises awareness of PCOS.

You’re not alone We look at how this common condition affects health and fertility and

the specialist Professor Ellis Downes is an experienced Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist in full-time independent practice. He has many years experience of treating gynaecological conditions and is invited to share his experience lecturing and teaching around the world. He has a keen interest in key hole surgery and bladder problems and sees many women with endometriosis, pelvic pain and urinary incontinence.

the treatments available today Often the first question a newly diagnosed Poly-Cystic Ovarian Syndrome sufferer will ask is whether they will be able to have children.

Though PCOS can cause fertility issues, and many women do not realise they may have PCOS until they struggle to conceive, statistics show that despite higher risk pregnancies, a large percentage of women with the condition still go on to have healthy babies.

Sufferers of PCOS will have raised testosterone, oestrogen and insulin levels, and if left untreated it can lead to other health problems later in life such as Type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol and high blood pressure. Although there is no cure for PCOS, the good news is there are a number of treatments available to women who are diagnosed with this condition.

Recent research studies have shown that reducing Body Mass Index (BMI) improves symptoms of PCOS and that maintaining a healthy weight, eating healthily and regularly exercising will reduce

the risk of developing any associated long-term health problems.

A vast amount of patients respond well to hormone treatment, which balances these excessive hormones and reduces some of the symptoms such as thinning hair and unwanted body hair. Certain types of contraceptive pills can be prescribed to encourage regular periods and alleviate acne.

Surgery is not generally needed for PCOS, but occasionally, if patients do not respond to medication to encourage ovulation, options such as ovarian drilling, which uses key-hole surgery to make tiny scorch marks on the ovaries can be offered. This corrects hormone imbalance by restoring the normal function of the ovaries by destroying the tissue that’s producing male hormones.

PCOS is a common condition which can be easily treated; if you have any number of the symptoms mentioned earlier, make an appointment and get it checked out.

For further information and updates, please visit The Wellington Hospital www.thewellingtonhospital.com or contact the Enquiry Helpline on 020 7483 5148

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

123

Food & Drink

N ews

new openings, sweet treats and culinary delights for the spring month ahead

Macaroons in May acclaimed pastry chef Pierre hermé is continuing his limited-edition macaroon launches with a delicious ‘Scented garden’ flavour this month. ‘For this garden collection, i approached my work with the association of flavours in the same manner as a perfumer’ says hermé, ‘the garden theme seemed obvious, as flowers, spices and plants are present in my creations’. Featuring notes of rose and jasmine (prompted by a conversation with master perfumer Jean-michel Duriez), the cream-filled treat is a blend of rose, vanilla and cloves - perfect for the start of the summer season.

Great things come in small packages this month, mayfair will see the launch of a sexy new private members’ club from the fabulous Soho house, with the opening of Little house in may. as the name suggests the place is cosy, accommodating just 100 guests in the chic lounge and bar area. in established Soho-house style, the club will feature exposed brick walls and a salon bar, where guests will be able to order from the ‘little menu’ which has drawn it’s inspiration from new York and italy with a short seasonal menu.

Little house will also feature an art collection of international talent, including Jenny holzer and taryn Simon, curated

by Jonny Yeo and Francesca gavin. ‘London is our home; it’s where it all began, so to create another club here was a natural next step,’ says founder nick Jones. ‘We are excited to bring something different to mayfair.’

Little House, 2 Queen Street W1J 5PA (www.littlehousemayfair.com)

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

Top takeaway

in honour of the Chelsea Flower Show this month, the Langham is offering green-fingered guests an awe-inspiring ‘Venus Flytrap’ cocktail at their in-house bar, artesian. Designed by award-winning head bartender alex Kratena, this sherrybased cocktail with floral notes will be available throughout the flower show, as the perfect light and aromatic aperitif or refreshing early evening drink, albeit with a bite.

Fans of the multi-award winning Japanese eatery nozomi are now able to order an array of mouth-watering dishes straight to their door. Famed for its full Sushi menu, the restaurant is offering its bespoke service to anyone, whether it’s for a large dinner party, a romantic meal for two, or a working lunch. the full drinks menu will also be available, along with a variety of hot dishes, Japanese specialities and desserts. Just order on the nozomi website and your delivery will arrive on a customised Piaggio mP3 scooter within the hour. itadakimasu!

Artesian Bar at the Langham, 1C Portland Place, W1B 21 May - 3 June, £14 (020 7636 1000; www.artesian-bar.co.uk)

14-15 Beauchamp Place, SW3 (020 7838 1500; www.nozomi.co.uk)

Macaron Jardin Parfumé gift box (seven pieces), £15 (www.pierreherme.com)

Best in show

Chef du jour One of europe’s most outstanding chefs has been brought to mayfair to join the ranks in one of London’s top restaurants. arnaud Bignon has been appointed as the new executive chef and partner of the greenhouse, one of the city’s most exclusive venues. Bignon, who worked under notable chef eric Fréchon at the three michelin-starred Le Bristol in Paris before moving to lead the kitchen team at Spondi in athens in 2005, was inspired to cook by his grandfather’s garden in France as a boy and continues to experiment with fresh and original dishes. expect contemporary monthly tasting menus created with the best seasonal produce, finished with a traditional French flourish. there is also an exceptional cheese and wine list - bon appetit!

The Greenhouse Restaurant, 27A Hay’s Mews, W1J (020 7499 3331; www.greenhouserestaurant.co.uk)

125

Grassroots dining With Britain’s unpredictable weather during the summer months, heading outside for a touch of al fresco dining is usually a spur-of-the-moment thing. Neil Ridley asks some of London’s best chefs for their thoughts on luxury picnicking at a moment’s notice

FOOD & DRINK

Roof terrace at The Berkeley

Planning a Picnic in one of london’s majestic parks is a bit of a lottery at the best of times. With such a wealth of green space to visit, we’re spoilt for choice over the summer months. however, with ‘rain stopped play’ a firm fixture across most of our lazy weekends, making the most of a picnic has become a national obsession when a spot of good weather does happen to strike. historically, picnics have represented an outdoor meal where everyone invited contributed to the culinary tit-bits on offer and particularly in Victorian times, london’s affluent ‘great outdoor set’ enjoyed lavish

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

and exotic dishes. mrs Beeton’s bible, Household Management, published in 1861, details the lengths some hosts were prepared to go to. in addition to boiled beef and ham ‘a piece of collard calf’s head, 6 medium lobsters, 2 pigeon pies and 18 lettuces’ were required to feed a party of 40, with sweet treats comprising ‘four dozen cheesecakes, one large cold plum pudding (this must be good) and two blancmanges in moulds.’ When it came to the beverages for her (more-than-sated) guests, copious pints of ale, champagne, claret, six bottles of sherry and two bottles of brandy would have no

127

doubt helped diners through any chance inclemency, which might have beset the picnic.

These days, perhaps because of the gloriously unpredictable weather, it is all too easy to make a last-gasp dash to the nearest supermarket for some pre-packed picnic food, which is usually as unpleasant as being stung by an enraged wasp that has flown into your glass of Prosecco.

Rowley Leigh, Chef-Patron at Le Café Anglais in Bayswater is a firm believer in making the most of a proper picnic. ‘Picnics and perseverance go together,’ he says.

‘There’s no point pretending that there isn’t a fair bit of planning involved. If you are intending to have a picnic the day you read this, then I am afraid you should have started three days ago. Going to a supermarket is not the same – it has none of the pleasure, nor the quality. The best picnic recipes must be able to be prepared well in advance, and not be too fragile.’ Rowley recommends simple dishes such as hard-boiled eggs with garlic mayonnaise and baked peppers with mozzarella, which is served at ‘indoor picnic’ lunches at Le Café Anglais.

Crystal Carabott, Head Chef at the Mount Street Deli can testify to a huge resurgence in freshly cooked picnic food, for those who are planning their al fresco jaunt at the last minute. ‘We’re finding that people tend to want to eat “real food” rather than picnic-specific food these days. At The Mount Street Deli, we prepare different seasonal dishes every day – salads, tarts, pastries, meat and fish. People often ask us to package up their choices so that they can go and sit in Mount Street Gardens or Hyde Park at lunchtime or after work – particularly great during the Proms season at The Royal Albert Hall.’ Carabott’s personal favourites include a salad of roasted fennel with orange, feta and dates, and a puff pastry tart with goat’s cheese, roasted peppers and rocket, ‘washed down with any of our fruit nectars.’

When it comes to giving your picnic a bit of spice and zest, Karam Sethi, owner and Head Chef at Trishna in Marylebone has several Indianthemed treats, which are simple to prepare but taste great.

‘Indian food is perfect for taking on a picnic as its robust flavours and spices taste even better outdoors in the fresh air,’ he says. ‘I love Indian scotch eggs, also known as nargisi koftas – or stuffed parathas, as these flatbreads (which you can buy in Indian groceries) are perfect when eaten cold. You can stuff them with a variety of things from cold meats to peas, Above / Mount Street Deli hamper

cauliflower or potatoes. Paneer on toast is also great – toss the cheese in a pan with roasted cumin, softened shallots, tomato, green chilli, fresh coriander and salt, then leave to cool. Pack up and spread on bread when you arrive at your picnic destination.’

If pre-preparing an outdoor feast is not your thing, Chris Galvin, Chef Patron of the Galvin restaurants including the new restaurant Demoiselle, at Harrods suggests stocking up at several of London’s independent gourmet shops.

‘Pop into Divertimenti (www.divertimenti.co.uk) and pick up a beautiful double-door picnic hamper and a trusty Lagouile knife which will cut and slice your goodies. Oh and don’t forget a corkscrew! I’d also recommend visiting La Fromagerie (www.lafromagerie.co.uk) for a leisurely browse, where you can fill your basket with some wonderful cheese (comte, St Marcellin and fourme d’ambert), and from the traiteur counter some terrine, rillette and saucisson. Add some cornichons and chutney, a bottle of wine, olives, anchovies, a loaf of their home baked bread and finally, pick up some fresh fruit to finish, find a river bank or park and someone to share it with.’

One particular haven for the would-be posh picnicker is undoubtedly Borough Market near London Bridge. Tom Kerridge who owns the Michelin-starred Hand & Flowers in Marlow (incidentally, a wonderful place for a picnic by the river) recommends the selection of fine pork pies on offer as an outdoor treat and Vincent Ménager, Executive Chef at The Balcon on Pall Mall is a self-confessed regular to the award winning market. ‘Borough Market is perfect for picnic shopping, especially for things such as fresh strawberries.

Other picnic essentials are charcuterie (as it’s ready prepared and very light - both to carry and to eat!) cheese with fresh bread and grapes (I always get my cheese from La Cave à Fromage in South Kensington) and poached lobster is another perfect picnic staple. If you don’t want to share too much of the extravagance with the rest of your party, a lobster and leek quiche or similar is a good compromise.’

And what better way than to wash your luxurious feast down, than with the ultimate picnic staple - Champagne. Either play it safe with an exceptionally crisp non-vintage brut, such as Alfred Gratien or go for an additional sweet treat, especially when fresh strawberries are involved, with a bottle of chilled Marguet Cuvée Rosé Grand Cru - both available from Berry Bros & Rudd (www.bbr.com).

FOOD & DRINK

THE BERKELEY If the wilds of London’s great outdoors are too much to bear, The Berkeley, provides a more sedentary alternative.

Tucked away on the spectacular rooftop terrace is an enclosed ‘secret garden’. As green and fresh as more public alternatives, and with an irresistible hint of kitsch, the garden is the perfect setting to enjoy a refreshing glass of homemade strawberry lemonade. And for the fully committed picnicker, there is a hamper full of picnic classics such as scotch eggs, pork pies, and salmon sandwiches. (www.the-berkeley.co.uk)

Above / Picnic suggestions from Fortnum & Mason and Paxton and Whitfield

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

129

The

Italian job Glenmorangie is one of the most famous names in the world of Scotch whisky making. But as Neil Ridley reports, their latest creation takes its influence from one of the finest wineries in Tuscany

FOOD & DRINK

there is little to dispute glenmorangie’s status as one of the most distinctive single malt whiskies behind the bar – no matter wherever you happen to be staying. since 1843, the distillery, whose name is thought to originate from the gaelic, gleann mor na sith (meaning ‘the vale of tranquility’), has been responsible for producing a charismatic, yet light and fruity spirit, which delivers complex layers of flavour and aroma. traditionally, whisky makers have matured their precious spirit in either used sherry casks from Jerez in spain or, in glenmorangie’s case, barrels made from white american oak, grown in the Ozark mountains, which have first been used to mature bourbon. this technique gives a single malt whisky up to 70 per cent of its flavour, with sweeter, vanilla and tropical fruit notes developing as the whisky lies slumbering away in cool, dark warehouses.

But alongside maintaining decades of tradition, glenmorangie, led by its chief whisky creator, Dr Bill lumsden, is also highly regarded as a pioneer in the field of introducing new flavoursome elements to its whiskies. the name’s most recent expression, artein (meaning ‘stone’ in gaelic) has looked to the sunny coast of northern italy for inspiration and the distillery has taken the rather unusual step of using some very exclusive wine barrels during the maturation process. the tenuta san guido winery, set into the beautiful rolling countryside of Bolgheri in the Province of livorno, has been producing one of italy’s most revered wines, sassicaia, since 1948 and winning a string of awards along the way. it is said that the Cabinet sauvignon vines were sourced from the legendary Chateau lafiterothchild estate in Bordeaux and the tiny quantities of wine produced were only for the estate owners to enjoy.

Word soon spread about the quality and complexity of this unusually Claret-styled bottling and by the late 1970s, the world had woken up to what is now classed as italy’s most highly prized ‘super tuscan’ vineyard. Dr lumsden, a man with a self-confessed weakness for fine wine, had been looking to work with the san guido winery for some time and artein is the finished article. ‘historically, we are well known for our special releases at glenmorangie,’ says Dr lumsden. ‘With artein, we wanted to carry on the tradition. i was introduced to sassicaia many years ago by another

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

whisky and wine connoisseur and it took me over three years to finally obtain a small number of quality used casks from the estate.’

Whilst the practice of using wine casks to mature whisky in is not a particularly new concept, (glenmorangie’s previous limited release, Pride, was matured in Premier Cru sauternes casks from the Château d’Yquem estate) to successfully use something as bold and powerful in flavour as sassicaia was not easy. ‘glenmorangie’s style has typically been influenced by american oak casks, which impart a wonderful vanilla sweetness into the whisky, with lighter notes of peach and crème brulée,’ says lumsden. ‘sometimes, wine casks can be very over powering and you can end up with a finished whisky, which loses its house style, with too much wine character.’ the resulting 15-year-old artein (which also contains a proportion of 21-year-old, american oak matured glenmorangie) undoubtedly demonstrates the influence of the used sassicaia ‘barriques’, with the colour taking on a distinct ruby hue, with a more pronounced spicy, peppery aroma, balancing with notes of fresh orchard fruit, and bold oak. it’s still unmistakably glenmorangie, but after a long, relaxing holiday to the sunkissed italian coast.

Visiting the san guido winery, one can see why it held such an attraction to Dr lumsden and for those planning a trip to tuscany, the area of Bolgheri in general should not be missed. there are around 45 wine producers spread across the region and alongside the perfectly manicured vines, much of the landscape has been planted with olive trees, with their characteristic silvery leaves glinting in the sun. in fact, the locally produced oil is starting to become as highly regarded as the wine in the area – but fortunately sells for a fraction of the cost. For those planning to expand their collection of fine italian wines, it is also well worth visiting the Ornellaia winery, which lies a stone’s throw away from tenuta san guido – their highly prized masseto vintages being another of the most collectable italian wines in the world.

For more information on Glenmorangie Artein, visit www.glenmorangie.com or www.thewhiskyexchange.com For more information on the wineries visited, go to: www.sassicaia.com and www.ornellaia.com

131

Canary Wharf London luxury & style canarywharf.com

SHOPPING

WEEKEND dining

at CANARY WHARF

Make the Most of the fantastic restaurants and exclusive weekend proMotions on offer at canary wharf - only 15 Minutes by tube froM Mayfair host to a wide range of delicious restaurants and bars – for breakfast, dinner and everything in between – foodies can eat, drink and be merry at canary wharf, over the weekend as well as during the week. a fine-dining destination for those looking for something different, there are restaurants suited to every taste.

ROKA

WEEKEND BRUNCH

ROKA canary wharf celebrates weekend brunch on both saturdays and sundays. the award winning cuisine includes a full selection of dishes from the sushi counter and the robata grill. the extensive canary wharf weekend brunch menu begins with a fresh bellini or spicy bloody Mary on arrival, as well as a large selection of dishes and ends with the spectacular roka dessert platter, all inclusive for £42. children are not only welcomed but under-tens dine for free. overlooking canada square park, in the heart of canary wharf, roka offers a great venue for weekend shoppers at canary wharf and families enjoying all the wharf has to offer. to complete the experience be sure to visit the fabulous diy bloody Mary bar.

FAMILY PAELLA

bowing to customer demand, Iberica Canary Wharf has extended its paella sunday offer to include saturdays, available alongside its à la carte menu. throughout the entire weekend, customers can enjoy this great value offer on iberica’s acclaimed beetroot Gazpacho, unlimited helpings of four choices of paella, a half bottle of wine and dessert, all for £29. children, naturally, are not forgotten and can share in the unlimited paella and a drink for only £10.

LIGHT LUNCH

italian export Obikà Mozzarella Bar centres around top quality Mozzarella di bufala campana served alongside carefully sourced, typically italian artisan products. obikà is located in the spacious and airy west wintergarden, and customers visiting for weekend brunch can enjoy a range of mozzarellas and accompaniments as well as a choice of delicious pizzas and pastas for £24.50, based on a minimum of two people sharing, or opt for the a la carte menu. children can get a taste of the Mediterranean brunch for £10. as well as fine dining, don’t miss the range of fantastic shops and boutiques situated within canary wharf’s shopping malls. at weekends and on bank holidays, you can enjoy 3 hours’ free parking in any of the public car parks when you spend £10 at any shop, café, bar or restaurant in canary wharf. www.canarywharf.com

@yourcanarywharf

INTERVIEW

Remembering May fa I R THE HISTORY OF FORTnum & maSOn When William Fortnum and hugh mason teamed up in 1707 to start a new grocery business they couldn’t have settled on a finer address in the whole of london. their chic emporium on the site of what is now 181 Piccadilly would swiftly become a virtual bridge between mayfair and St James, and help catapult Fortnum & mason to a discerning international audience. Whether Fortnum’s was sending beef tea to the patients of Florence nightingale at the request of Queen Victoria or working with the British east india Company to import spices into the nation’s homes, it enjoyed an unrivalled place in British Society – a position it still occupies to this day.

‘We underwent a major refurbishment for our tercentenary in 2007,’ says the store’s archivist, Dr andrea tanner, ‘and we went back to basics, i suppose, concentrating on food and celebration and giving presents. We looked at every single recipe from jam to the salt we sold and made it as perfect as we could.’ it’s a desire to look after customers like this that has made Fortnum & mason shine from the very beginning. in 1794, for example, the store started accepting mail for delivery, spotting a need amongst fashionable local residents. Fortnum’s Postal Service – which even had its own stamp – enabled the good people of mayfair and St James to pick up and drop off mail at the store, and also organised the delivery of letters to neighbouring streets. Post bound for further afield would go on one of the innumerable coaches that trundled along Piccadilly.

the list of Fortnum & mason firsts is a long and varied one and contains more than a few surprises – such as heinz beans. ‘in 1886, henry J heinz brought his family over from Baltimore for a holiday and, mixing business with pleasure, he took a carpet bag of his bottled and tinned products to Fortnum’s,’ says Dr tanner. the store’s buyer tried them, liked them and said they’d take the lot – and heinz beans have been a cornerstone of the British diet ever since. a particularly special time for Fortnum’s was the 1920s and 1930s, when the store’s world-famous expeditions Department sprang up on the back of their success at kitting out military officers. the officers’ Supply Department, set up in 1915, could furnish his majesty’s finest with everything they needed from uniforms to weaponry and tinned quail with foie gras. Kitting out expeditions to everest, Cameroon and beyond, Fortnum’s new expeditions Department – which sadly disbanded during WW2 – was also called on for provision of the future King edward Viii when he embarked on a round-the-world trip to thank the empire for its support during the First World War. today, Fortnum & mason successfully manages to merge the old and the new, feeling both light and airy thanks to its dazzling new atrium – and suitably venerable thanks to vintage chandeliers, historic artwork and an unmistakably genteel atmosphere. ‘You also step onto a red carpet as soon as you enter the store,’ says Dr tanner. ‘there aren’t many shops which welcome their visitors like that.’

‘We looked at every recipe from jam to salt and made it as perfect as we could’

Above / Fortnum’s exterior in 2000 Above right / a Fortnum’s lift attendant with some customers c.1960 Images courtesy of Fortnum & Mason t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

135

Where can I... ?

Some of the interesting requests made to Mayfair’s most experienced concierges

FIX IT QUICK

Dry cleaner / clothing repair

Watch Club

Mayfair Prestige

Sivellav

4-5 Royal Arcade, W1S 4SD 020 7495 4882

0845 862 2142 info@mayfair-prestige.com

020 7407 2115 support@ems-events.co.uk

LAND, SEA AND AIR

VIP Car Hire

Soho AV

The Circle, Queen Elizabeth Street SE1 2JE 0870 200 4949 contact@vipservices.co.uk www.vipservices.co.uk

020 7494 4449 hire@sohoav.com

Buckingham Dry Cleaners 83 Duke Street, W1K 5PF 020 7499 1253

City Centre 31 Avery Row, W1K 4BD 020 7629 5558 info@citycentredrycleaners.co.uk

Buy a car

Jack Barclay 18 Berkeley Square, W1J 6AE 020 7629 7444

Jeeves of Belgravia

Porsche

54 South Audley Street, W1K 2QQ 020 7491 8885

Berkeley Square, W1K 3NA 020 7514 0900

Washington Dry Cleaners

Rolls Royce

18 Half Moon Street, W1J 7BF 020 7499 3711

15 Berkeley Square, W1J 6EG 020 7491 7941

it / tech support

charter a helicopter

luxury yacht charter / sale Exclusive Lifestyle 72 Bond Street, W1S 1RR 0845 338 0377 info@exclusivelifestyle.co.uk

Killik & Co 46 Grosvenor Street, W1K 3HN 020 7337 0443

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

36 Davies Street, W1K 4NF 020 7355 0980

Emtjets

rent a rolls royce

Wavex 0845 644 8060 support@wavex.co.uk www.wavex.co.uk

shoes re-heeleD James Taylor and Son 4 Paddington Street, W1U 5QE 020 7935 4149 post@taylormadeshoes.co.uk

Mayfair Cobblers

23 Berkeley Square, W1J 6HE 08453 888 248 chartereurope@emtjets.com

Exclusive Aircraft 3rd Floor 14 Hannover Street W1S 1YH 020 7183 7988 info@exclusiveair.co.uk

First City Air LTD Lister House Chelsea Bridge Rd, SW1W 8RH 020 7259 9313 www.firstcityair.co.uk

4 White Horse Street, W1J 7LG

Sole Man

Sunseeker

Hanwells

Mti Commodities UK Ltd 80 Park Lane, W1K 7TR 020 7529 5330

Novum Securities Ltd 47 Park Lane, W1K 1PR 020 7399 9400

Old Park Lane Capital

86-91 Uxbridge Road W7 3ST 020 7436 2070

49 Berkeley Square, W1J 5AZ 020 7493 8188

Phantom Hire

South China Securities Ltd

0800 542 1337

12 Stanhope Gate, W1K 1AW 020 7491 9225

thames cruise City Cruses 020 7740 0400

London River Cruises 020 7839 8008

London Battersea Heliport

Cheyne 13 Cleveland Row, SW1A 1DH 020 7968 7450

Princess Yachts

Mike Will Fix It

Pensar

Artemis 57 St James Street, SW1A 1LD 020 7399 6000

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

020 7737 2514 / 0776 264 7547 www.mikewillfixit.com

0845 402 6797 www.pensar.co.uk

Buy / sell shares

TAIB Securities Ltd 11 Carlos Place, W1K 3AX 020 7533 1600 taibsecurities@taib.com

international courier

Bridges Wharf, Battersea, SW11 3BE 0844 884 8660

River Thames Cruises

DHL

020 7237 3108/9111

0844 248 0844

electric cars

Spirit of Chartwell

Excel

020 7372 2077

020 7536 7170

54 Stratton Street, W1J 8LP 020 7493 3505

The Electric Car Corporation

Thames Cruises

FedEx

Watch repair

1st Floor, 5 Aldford Street, W1K 2AF 020 7495 5270 sales@eccplc.com

020 7928 9009 info@thamescruises.com

0845 607 0809

1 White Horse Street, W1J 7LB 020 7355 2553

Timpson

Marcus Watches

Thames Dinner Cruises

London Executive International 020 7450 0060 enquiry@londonexec.com

170 Bond Street, W15 4RB 020 7290 6500

luxury car rental

Royal Arcade Watches 4 Royal Arcade, W1S 4SD 020 7495 4882

48-56 Ebury, Bridge Rd, SW1W 8QF 020 7730 8888 info@belgraviagarage.com

auDio Visual hire

0844 888 4111

Russell Talerman

Mayfair Corporation

AV2hire.comn

Go-Betweens Couriers Ltd

34-36 Maddox Street, W1S 1PD 020 7491 0625

020 8255 0522 chauffeur@mayfaircorp.co.uk

020 3130 0401 info@hire-av.co.uk

020 7278 1000 info@gobetweenscouriers.com

Belgravia Garage

0845 299 4127

LAST MINUTE BUSINESS

local courier City Sprint

CONCIERGE

Mail Boxes etc 020 7491 0022 info@mbemayfair.co.uk

Prestige taxi Crown Security Chauffeurs 0845 901 1471 info@crown-chauffeurs.co.uk

Executive Cars UK 0800 048 3359

London Prestige Chauffeur Service

MTS Mayfair Translation

Doctor

14 Soho Street, W1D 3Dn 0795 740 5061 info@mayfairtranslation.co.uk

Lees Place Medical Centre

Paul Thomas Flowers

11 Lees Place, W1n 6Ln 020 7036 6060

4 Shepherd Street, W1J 7JD 020 7499 6889 shop@paulthomasflowers.co.uk

Russian Business Translator

The London General Practice

0770 411 4323

5 Devonshire Place, W1g 6hL 020 7935 1000

LIFE SAVER BaBy sitter

Find a Babysitter.com

The Mayfair Medical Centre 3 - 5 Weighhouse Street, W1K 5LS 020 7493 1647

020 7580 6403

Urgent Care Centre

Rockabye Babysitters

42-52 nottingham Place, W1U 5nY 020 7908 2144

9 Wimpole St, W1g 9Sg 020 7624 0060

oPtician

020 7127 4838

Dentist

Arthur Morrice

The Executive Car Service

Aqua Dental Spa

020 7635 2571

25 manchester Square, W1U 3PY 020 7935 5332

020 7624 2632 www.prestigechauffeurs.org

Signature Cars

TST Car Service 94 mount Street, W1K 2Sz 020 7409 3033 admin@tstcars.co.uk

UK Chauffeurs Ltd 020 3326 0513 bookings@ukcl.net

Private Dining room Corrigans

Crescent Dental Clinic 57 Crawford Street, W1h 4JL 020 7723 2255 info@crescentdental.com

Doug Jarvis 38 Poland Street, W1F 7LY 020 7437 6383

Lund Osler Dental Health Care

28 Upper grosvenor Street W1K 7eh 020 7499 9943

56 Knightsbridge, SW1X 7Jn 020 7838 8969

Hibiscus

11 South molton Street, W1K 5QL 020 7499 1225

29 maddox Street, W1S 2Pa 020 7629 2999

Sartoria 20 Savile Row, W1S 3PR 020 7534 7000

Florist

N Meyer & Associates

Pall Mall Dental 15 Pall mall, SW1Y 5LU 020 7766 7250 info@pallmalldental.co.uk

Scott’s

Peter Kertesz

20 mount Street, W1K 2he 020 7495 7309

29a Brook Street, W1K 4he 020 7629 3262

Tempo

Swiss Smile

54 Curzon Street, W1J 8Pg 020 7629 2742

10 Brook Street, W1S 1Bg 020 7290 1180 brookstreet@swiss-smile.com

11 Beauchamp Place, SW3 1nQ 020 7584 4661 sw3@arthur-morrice.com

Dog walkers

Wild Things of Mayfair 47 Davies Street, W1K 4LY 020 7495 3030 info@wildthingsflowers.co.uk

William Clark Flowers 26 Seymour Place, W1h 7nn 020 7402 3444 shop@williamclarkflowers.com

last minute giFts Halcyon Days 14 Brook Street, W1S 1BD 0844 880 8210 enquiries@halcyondays.co.uk

Harrods 87–135 Brompton Road, SW1X 7XL 020 7730 1234

Central London Dog Walking Service

Jeff de Bruges

18 Warwick Square, SW1V 2aB 0785 604 5975

13 South molton Street, W1K 5QW 020 7409 0213

Chelsea Dogs

Linley Accessories

7 Chelsea Square, SW3 6LF 0778 632 5053 info@chelseadogs.co.uk

46 albemarle Street, W1S 4Jn 020 7290 1410

Happy Paws

34 Burlington arcade, W1J 0Qa 020 7499 6337

41 Cumberland Street, SW1V 4LU 0781 846 3286

K9 to 5 Club

Penfriend London

Personal cheF

46 Broadwalk Court, W8 4eF 0771 006 4871 info@k9to5club.co.uk

Galor Personal Chef

Mayfair Mutts

The Personal Chef

Upper Brook Street, W1 020 7409 7739 07957 460 610 mayfairmutts@hotmail.co.uk

020 7871 1080

Pawsh Dogs Dog Walking

020 7371 4076 contact@galor.co.uk

Personal shoPPer Gabrielle Teare 0798 531 9300 info@gabrielleteare.com

54 harwood Road, SW6 4PY 0750 344 8489

High Heels

30 Bruton Place, W1J 6nL 020 7409 1728

The Mayfair Dental Practice

Pedigree Pups

Sophie Deedes 0759 504 3802

0780 433 7486 sam@pedigree-pups.com

Mark Lord London

translator

71 Park Street, W1K 7hn 020 7499 2168

Pets in the City

0786 658 1230 mark@marklordlondon.co.uk

Central Translations

Teeth @ W1

21 Woodstock Street, W1C 2aP 020 7493 5511

7 South molton Street, W1K 5Qg 020 7499 7015

The Guinea Grill

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

75 St helens gardens, W10 6LL 020 8962 0700 0795 730 3858 info@petsincity.com

Threads Styling Consultancy 020 7749 0784 info@threadsstyling.co.uk

137

Stationery printer City Images 8 Avery Row, W1K 4AL 020 7495 0421 post@cityimages.co.uk

Mail Boxes etc 8 Shepherd Market, WIJ 7JY 020 7491 0022 info@mbemayfair.co.uk

020 7823 1888 info@mangotree.org.uk

Randall & Aubin 16 Brewer Street, W1F 0SQ 020 7287 4447

Mount Street Printers

The Wolseley 160 Piccadilly, W1J 9EB 020 7499 6996

CaSinoS

Late night iCe-Cream Baskin-Robbins

Aspinalls

Edgware Road, W2 2HZ 020 7262 3918

28 Curzon Street, W1J 7TJ 020 7499 4599

Freggo Ice-cream Bar

24 Hertford Street, W1J 7SA 020 7495 5000

27-29 Swallow Street W1B 4QB 020 7287 9506 scoop@freggo.co.uk

Crockfords Club

Gelupo

30 Curzon Street, W1J 7TN 020 7493 7771

7 Archer Street, W1D 7AU 020 7287 5555

Colony Club

The Dorchester Spa Park Lane, W1K 1QA 020 7319 7109 spa@thedorchester.com

RECHARGE AND RECUPERATE

Women’S hair

Noura 16 Curzon Street, W1J 5HP 020 7495 1050 noura@noura.co.uk

4 Mount Street, W1K 3LW 020 7409 0303 info@mountstreetprinters.com

PARTY TIME

Henry Bonas events@henrybonas.com 020 3214 2099

dog grooming Mayfair Mutts

Upper Brook Street, W1 020 7409 7739 0795 746 0610 mayfairmutts@hotmail.co.uk

Pets in the City 75 St Helens Gardens, W10 6LL 020 8962 0700 / 0795 730 3858 info@petsincity.com

maSSageS Mayfair Spa - The Mayfair Hotel Stratton Street, W1J 8LT 020 7915 2826 mayfairspa@radisson.com

Michael John Boutique 25 Albemarle Street W1S 4HU 020 7629 6969 online@michaeljohn.co.uk

Janet Ginnings Hair and Beauty Salon 45 Curzon Street, W1J 7UQ 020 7499 1904

Joe’s Hair Salon 73 Burlington Arcade, W1J 0QR 020 7629 3456

Michael John Hair and Beauty 25 Albemarle Street, W1S 4HU 020 7629 6969

Nicky Clarke 130 Mount Street, Mayfair, W1K 3NY www.nickyclarke.com

Sassoon Salon 60 South Molton Street, W1K 5SW 020 7491 8848

Top One Hair and Beauty Specialists 53 Berkeley Street, W1J 8EX 020 7629 6465

London Club International

Midnite Cookies

Spa Illuminata

10 Brick Street, W1J 7HQ 020 7518 0000

15 Exeter Street, WC2E 7DT 020 7836 5131

63 South Audley Street, W1K 2QS 020 7499 7777

SAMPLE THE FINEST

Parks Tower Casino

The Icecreamists

The Dorchester Spa

Aspinal of London

101 Knightsbridge SW1X 7RQ 020 7235 6161

Selfridges, W1A 1AB 020 8616 8694 office@theicecreamits.com

Park Lane, W1K 1QA 020 7319 7109 spa@thedorchester.com

0845 053 6900 enquires@aspinaloflondon.com

The Palm Beach Casino

memberS CLubS

men’S hair

44 Baker Street, W1U 7RT 020 7388 2404 info@chess.co.uk

30 Berkeley Street, W1J 8EH 020 7493 6585

The Ritz Club 150 Piccadilly, W1J 9BS 020 7499 1818

FanCy dreSS Pantaloons 020 7630 8330 www.pantaloons.co.uk

So High Soho Ltd 96 Berwick Street, W1F 0QQ 020 7287 1295 online@sohighsoho.co.uk

Late night Food Automat 33 Dover Street, W1S 4NF 020 7499 3033 info@automat-london.com

Benares 12A Berkeley Square House, W1J 6BS 020 7629 8886

Hakkasan 17 Bruton Street, W1J 6QB 020 7907 1888 mail@hakkasan.com

Mango Tree 46 Grosvenor Place, SW1X 7EQ

Arts Club

Atherton Cox

40 Dover Street, W1S 4NP 020 7499 8581

18 New Cavendish Street, W1G 8UR 020 7487 4048

AURA

Sassoon Salon for Men

48-49 St James Street SW1A 1JT 020 7499 9999

56 Brook Street, W1K 5NE 020 7399 6935

Maddox Club 3-5 Mill Street, W1S 2AU 020 7629 8877

Mortons Club 28 Berkeley Square, W1J 6EN 020 7499 0363

Savile Club 69 Brook Street, W1K 4ER 020 7629 5462 admin@savileclub.co.uk

The Lansdowne Club 9 Fitzmaurice Place, W1J 5JD 020 7629 7200 secretary@lansdowneclub.com

party pLanner Concorde Media

The Barber at Alfred Dunhill 2 Davies Street, W1K 3DJ 0845 458 0779

Spa & beauty Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa 29 Davies Street, W1K 4LW 0870 787 6626

Mayfair Tanning & Waxing LTD, 19 Denman Street, W1D 7HP 020 7494 3344

Michael John Boutique 25 Albemarle Street, W1S 4HU 020 7629 6969 online@michaeljohn.co.uk

Nails Inc

020 7297 3344

41 South Molton Street, W1k 5RP 020 7499 8333

G&D Events

The Athenaeum

020 7682 2682 www.g-and-devents.com

116 Piccadilly, W1J 7BJ 020 7499 3464

baCkgammon board

London Chess Shop

William & Son 10 Mount Street, W1K 2TY 020 7493 8385 info@williamandson.com

Caviar Caviar House & Prunier 161 Piccadilly, W1J 9EA 0871 961 9577

Harrods 87-135 Brompton Road, SW1X 7XL 020 7730 1234

CheeSe Harrods 87-135 Brompton Road SW1X 7XL 020 7730 1234

La Fromagerie 2-6 Moxon Street, W1U 4EW 020 7935 0341 moxon@lafromagerir.co.uk

ChoCoLateS Charbonnel et Walker The Royal Arcade 28 Old Bond Street, W1S 4BT 020 7491 0939

CONCIERGE

Jeff de Bruges

Nicolas

Burlington Jewellers

Pasha Clinic

13 South molton Street, W1K 5QW 020 7409 0213

11 Curzon Street, W1J 5h5 020 7629 1564

37 maddox Street, W1S 2PP 020 7409 7354 info@pashaclinic.co.uk

Rococo Chocolates

Vintage watCHes

10-11 Burlington arcade W1J 0Pg 020 7493 0777

45 marylebone high Street, W1U 5hg 020 7935 7780

Cigars

David Duggan 63 Burlington arcade, WiJ 0QS 020 7491 1675

Guy & Max

Perfect Feet Spa

8 Shepherd Street, W1J 7eJ 020 7499 5898 studio@guyandmax.com

7-9 Queensway, W2 4QJ 020 7243 6723 info@perfectfeetspa.com

Sautter of Mount Street

Rolex Boutique

Hancocks & Co,

Selfridges & Co

106 mount Street, W1K 2tW 020 7499 4866 info@sauttercigars.com

61 Brompton Road, SW3 1DB 020 7581 7073

Burlington arcade, W1J Ohh 020 7493 8904 info@hancocks-london.com

400 Oxford Street, W1a 1aB 0800 123 400

Fine wine

24 Burlington arcade, W1J 0ea 020 7499 2032

Berry Bros & Rudd 3 St. James’s Street, SW1a 1eg 0800 280 2440

Jeroboams 20 Davies Street, W1K 3Dt 020 7499 1015

Suze in Mayfair

The Vintage Watch Co.

Watchclub 4-5 the Royal arcade, W1S 4SD 020 7495 4882 info@watchclub.com

WEIRD AND THE WONDERFUL

J.Condrup

Burlington arcade, W1J 0QX 020 7491 9155

Michael Marks

rent a douBLe deCker Bus

58 Davies Street, W1K 5LP 020 7491 0332

Richard Ogden

Bespoke perFumes Clive Christian

Tiffany & Co.

Humidors

harrods, Knightsbridge 020 7730 1234

25 Old Bond Street, W1S 4QB 020 7409 2790

Linley

Floris

46 albemarle Street, W1S 4Jn 020 7290 1410

Peter Jones, Sloane Square, SW1W 8eL 020 7730 3434

exotiC pyjamas

Sautter of Mount Street

Jo Malone

106 mount Street, W1K 2tW 020 7499 4866 info@sauttercigars.com

23 Brook Street, W1K 4ha 0870 192 5181

Luxury Hamper Fortnum & Mason 181 Piccadilly, W1a 1eR 020 7734 8040 corporate@fortnumandmason.co.uk

Harvey Nichols 109-125 Knightsbridge, SW1X 7RJ 020 7235 5000 contactknightsbridge@harveynichols.com

John Lewis 300 Oxford Street, W1a 1eX 08456 049 049

Luxury Liquor

Miller Harris 21 Bruton Street, W1J 6QD 020 7629 7750 info@millerharris.com

Ormonde Jayne 12 the Royal arcade, W1S 4SL 020 7499 1100 sales@ormondejayne.com

Hackett 137-138 Sloane Street SW1X 9aY 020 7730 3331

Harrods

London Bus Export Company 01291 689741 lonbusco@globalnet.co.uk

London Heritage Travel 01353 863273

This Bus.com 0845 4652 394

seCurity Cameras IP Tec 351 horn Lane, W3 0BX 020 8993 3377 sales@iptecworld.com

87-135 Brompton Road, SW1X 7XL 020 7730 1234

I-tesco

Louis Vuitton

72 Bond Street, W1S 1RR info@i-tesco.co.uk

190-192 Sloane Street, SW1X 9QX 020 7201 4190

sHotgun repairs

Myla

Anderson Wheeler

Bug deteCtors

4 Burlington gardens, W15 3eR 020 7491 8548 info@myla.com

13 Shepherd market, W1J 7PQ 020 7499 9315

London Detective, W1

Prada

0800 970 7925 enquiry@ksm-investigations.co.uk

16-18 Old Bond Street, W1S 4PS 020 7647 5000

23 Burton Street, W1J 6hh 020 7499 4411 gunroomuk@hollandandholland.com

Ralph Lauren

James Purdey & Sons Ltd

1 new Bond Street, W1a 3RL 020 7535 4600

57-58 South audley Street W1K 2eD 020 7499 1801 enquiries@purdey.com

Sweepers De-Bugging Service

Gerry’s Wines & Spirits

302-308 Regent Street, W1B 3hh 0870 765 4307

74 Old Compton Street, W1D 4UW 020 7734 2053

diamonds VaLued

Harrods

Armour Winston

87-135 Brompton Road SW1X 7XL 020 7730 1234

43 Burlington arcade, W1J 0QQ 020 7493 8937

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

Ladurée

45-46 new Bond Street, W1S 2SF 020 7477 2455 jc@jcondrup.com

28 Burlington arcade, W1J 0nX 020 7493 9136

41 north audley Street, W1K 6zP 020 7491 3237 info@suzeinmayfair.com

London’s Best Hot CHoCoLate

FisH pediCure

Holland and Holland

Aqua Sheko

William & Son

14 holland Street, W8 4Lt 020 3489 8336 reservations@aquasheko.co.uk

10 mount Street, W1K 2tY 020 7493 8385 info@williamandson.com

139

PROPERTY

FeatURed

Estate Agents SW3 1hW 020 7717 5463 (LettingS)

www.savills.co.uk

John D Wood

London Sotheby’s International Realty

TRUSTE

n

信任

KnightSBRidge OFFiCe 82 Brompton Road SW3 1eR 020 7225 6506

Co

sa

ende

n

rt

Pasit

ikėjim

as

ci

ren

du

vje

Fi

Po

nie

from around the world

Home House Estates 21 Woodstock Street W1C 2aP 020 7493 1911

LOndOn head OFFiCe 13 hill Street W1J 5LQ 020 7629 7282

KnightSBRidge OFFiCe 66 Sloane Street SW1X 9Sh www.johndwood.co.uk 020 7235 9959

maYFaiR OFFiCe 120a mount Street W1K 3nn 020 7499 1012 (SaLeS/LettingS)

London & Country Estate Agents

Kensington&Chelsea mag Mar12.indd 8

th

ae

ol

ed

iri

dd

maRYLeBOne OFFiCe 120a mount Street W1K 3nn Attracting buyers and tenants 020 7483 8349 (SaLeS)

www.harrodsestates.com

Strutt & Parker

s

amu

ufa

maYFaiR OFFiCe 61 Park Lane W1K 1QF 020 7409 9001

Za

je

a

Ym

Ve hYde PaRK OFFiCe 55 Baker Street W1U 8an 020 7861 5522 (SaLeS)

0 per week Unfurnished 020 7243 1352 nhl.lets@faronsutaria.co.uk

www.faronsutaria.co.uk

Доверие

e rau

verted barn set over three floors, designed by a local architect and situated in a private mews, ing a sliding roof and original barn doors. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 receptions, balcony, garage.

SOUth KenSingtOn OFFiCe 115 Old Brompton Road SW7 3Lg 020 7590 0300

www.sothebysrealty.com

Förtro

18 Knight Frank 72 - 2 012

Εμπιστοσύνη

eaRLS COURt & KenSingtOn OFFiCe 239 earls Court Road SW5 9ah 020 7835 1577

Years of Property

era

v Dô

140

za nfian

Luott

SALES & LETTINGS

Faron Sutaria

D

R GEN E FO

IONS AT R

Güve

U

m

ça

alo

Harrods Estates

an

Biz

onsutaria.co.uk

NON YARD, W11

n fia

www.chestertonhumberts.com

ya

on

www.johndwood.co.uk

WeStminSteR & PimLiCO OFFiCe 10 gillingham Street SW1V 1hJ 020 3040 8201 (SaLeS)

26a Conduit Street W1S 2XY 020 7495 9580 us

rca

pe

www.hamptons-int.com

uwen

ke

Vertro

BeLgRaVia OFFiCe 48 elizabeth Street SW1W 9Pa 020 7824 7900 C

maYFaiR OFFiCe 47 South audley Street W1K 2Qa 020 7629 4513 (SaLeS) 020 7288 8301 (LettingS)

PimLiCO and WeStminSteR OFFiCe 50 Belgrave Road SW1V 1RQ 020 7834 4771 (SaLeS)

www.jackson-stops.co.uk

ld

Chesterton Humberts

PaddingtOn and BaYSWateR OFFiCe 4C Praed Street W2 1JX 020 7717 5473 (SaLeS)

SLOane StReet OFFiCe 139 Sloane Street SW1X 9aY 020 7730 0822 (SaLeS/LettingS)

トラ スト

www.beauchamp.co.uk

maYFaiR OFFiCe 17C Curzon Street W1J 5hU 020 7664 6644 (SaLeS)

Trust

24 Curzon Street W1J 7tF 020 7499 7722

Jackson Stops

Confi ance

Beauchamp Estates

maYFaiR OFFiCe 32 grosvenor Square W1K 2hJ 020 7717 5465 (SaLeS) 020 7717 5467 (LettingS)

maYFaiR OFFiCe 36 north audley Street W1K 6zJ 020 7578 5100 (SaLeS/LettingS)

08/02/2012 13:31

www.struttandparker.com

www.knightfrank.co.uk

E MEWS, SW5

sh and contemporary style mews house in South Kensington, arranged over three floors with a private e and fully-fitted eat-in granite kitchen. Master bedroom suite, 2 further double bedrooms, bathroom.

W.A. Ellis

www.homehouseestates.co.uk

0 per week Furnished/Unfurnished 020 7590 0333 obr.lets@faronsutaria.co.uk

Residential Lettings across RBK&C in Chelsea, South Kensington, Earls Court and Notting Hill

174 Brompton Road SW3 1hP 020 7306 1600

OUR SERVICE WILL MOVE YOU

helsea mag Mar12.indd 19

08/02/2012 13:34

Hamptons International CheLSea OFFiCe 134 Fulham Road SW10 9PY 020 7717 5433 (LettingS) KnightSBRidge OFFiCe 168 Brompton Road

Horne & Harvey Est. 1803

Horne & Harvey 23a St James’s Street SW1a 1ha 020 7839 6006

www.horneandharvey.co.uk

www.waellis.co.uk

Savills

KnightSBRidge OFFiCe 188 Brompton Road SW3 1hQ 020 7581 5234 (SaLeS)

For Estate Agent Listings please contact Fiona Fenwick at: f.fenwick@runwildgroup.co.uk

140

Old fashioned manners meet modern methods.

Finding you a home in London’s best addresses...

Leading London Estate Agents and Chartered Surveyors At W.A.Ellis, traditional values like reliability, honesty and polite Telephone +44 (0)20 7493 1911 www.HomeHouseEstates.co.uk

professionalism underpin our boutique service. And the same Partner will work with you from start to finish.

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

showcasing the

finest hoMes & PRoPeRtY fRoM the best estate agents

Exclusive

properties

Insider knowledge and market tips on sourcing the ultimate home Look by Tim Gosling, Gosling Ltd See page 34

INTERIORS PROFILE:

The

Brassworks original features with a novel architectural design, the Brassworks offers a new living space in the heart of Mayfair

Although ‘restoration’ and ‘refurbishment’ have been buzzwords in the property world for years now, they haven’t failed to lose the excitement and interest that they generate when used to describe a project in london. the Brassworks is one such redevelopment, and in association with agents Knight Frank, is one of the most intriguing projects in the capital this spring. tucked away on Frederick Close (just north west of Marble Arch) the Brassworks is a newly refurbished block of eight contemporary apartments. Each apartment has been architecturally designed to the highest specification, whilst preserving the original features resulting in a collection of stylish, chic and exciting living spaces that maintain an element of all-important period character.

‘With the Brassworks, we relished the opportunity to convert a striking musical instrument factory into luxury apartments while retaining its historic character by using high quality design, specification and materials throughout’, says Shahriar Nasser, from Belsize Architects. the apartments offer around 1,955 sq.ft (181 sq.m)

of living space centred on the focal point of an internal courtyard. Inside each apartment, ‘planning the spaces carefully was important,’ says Emma Perring, Director at Perring Design. ‘the rooms are wonderfully large and light, and the key was not to overcrowd them. We opted for a sleek, contemporary design based on a neutral palette, and then used contrasting textures and accent colours to add a unique twist.’ the properties offer a reception area, dining area, fully fitted kitchen (with the latest appliances), study area and steps into a separate media room. there are two large bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms and walk-in wardrobes.

‘Where else in central london can you rent a loft-style apartment? It’s a unique opportunity,’ says Zoe Sexton at Knight Frank lettings. ‘We’ve already seen strong interest from prospective tenants who were not necessarily looking in the area but don’t want to miss the opportunity of renting this style of apartment.’ (www.knightfrank.com)

PROPERTY

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

143

PROPERTY

‘The rooms are wonderfully large and light, and the key was not to overcrowd them’ Emma Perring, Perring Design

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

145

PROPERTY

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

147

Knight Frank Jermyn Street, St James’s SW1 Charming duplex flat

A bright and spacious duplex apartment located in an imposing mansion block, featuring large windows and classic wooden parquet flooring. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, large reception room, kitchen, lift.

Approximately 139 sq m (1,496 sq ft).

Leasehold: 82 years approximately

Guide Price: £2,000,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/Mayfair mayfair@knightfrank.com 020 8166 7482

(WER120072)

Lees Place, Mayfair W1

Attractive apartment A sunny, well presented flat, set within an a prepossessing block located in the heart of Mayfair and benefiting from the use of a lovely terrace. Bedroom, bathroom, reception room, kitchen, shared terrace garden. Approximately 50.4 sq m (543 sq ft).

Leasehold: 57 years approximately Guide Price: £895,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/Mayfair mayfair@knightfrank.com 020 8166 7482

(WER120006)

Knight Frank

Mount Street, Mayfair W1 Striking lateral apartment

Benefiting from a desirable Mayfair location, this contemporary three bedroom flat has been modernised to a high standard throughout. With impressive south facing reception rooms, it is within reach of Hyde Park and Berkeley Square. 3 bedrooms, 3 reception rooms, 3 bathrooms, kitchen, lift. Approximately 232 sq m (2,500 sq ft).

Leasehold: 118 years approximately Guide Price: ÂŁ7,000,000 (WER110127)

KnightFrank.co.uk/Mayfair mayfair@knightfrank.com 020 8166 7482

Knight Frank Kean Street, Covent Garden WC2B Spectacular views in the heart of theatreland

A contemporary split-level penthouse offering outstanding entertaining space. Comprises 3 double bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, fully-fitted kitchen, multiple balconies, comfort cooling, underfloor heating and views over the city’s iconic skyline.

Available furnished

Guide Price: £2,500 per week

Mayfair Lettings KnightFrank.co.uk/lettings mayfairlettings@knightfrank.com 020 7499 1012

(150303)

Northumberland Avenue WC2N Contemporary cool

Located in London’s historic heart and boasting modern interiors finished to the highest standard. 3 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, double reception room with decorative cornicing and feature chandelier, kitchen and lift.

Available furnished

Guide Price: £2,750 per week

Mayfair Lettings KnightFrank.co.uk/lettings mayfairlettings@knightfrank.com 020 7499 1012

(156107)

Knight Frank Green Street, Mayfair W1K

Spacious duplex with south-facing balcony Set over the first and second floors of a well-located period block, this elegant apartment comprises 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, large reception room with south-facing balcony, contemporary kitchen and guest WC. Available furnished

Guide Price: ÂŁ3,500 per week

Mayfair Lettings KnightFrank.co.uk/lettings mayfairlettings@knightfrank.com 020 7499 1012

(160042)

Hay Hill, Mayfair W1J

Stylish entertaining space An exceptional newly developed apartment with interior designed furnishings and a spacious layout that is ideal for entertaining. 3 bedrooms, 3 en suite bathrooms, reception room, separate dining room, kitchen, private entrance.

Available furnished

Guide Price: ÂŁ3,750 per week

Mayfair Lettings KnightFrank.co.uk/lettings mayfairlettings@knightfrank.com 020 7499 1012

(157339) (157339)

Knight Frank

Upper Wimpole Street, Marylebone W1 Magnificent Grade II listed house

This magnificent Georgian house has been beautifully restored to an exceptionally high standard encompassing the latest in modern technology. 6 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, 5 reception rooms, kitchen / breakfast room, patio garden. The lower ground floor comprises 2 further bedroom suites, kitchen, cinema room, gymnasium, patio garden. Approximately 745 sq m (8,019 sq ft) Freehold Guide price: ÂŁ15,000,000 (MRY100045)

KnightFrank.co.uk/Marylebone marylebone@knightfrank.com 020 7483 8349

Knight Frank

Hyde Park Gardens, Hyde Park W2 Elegantly proportioned

Occupying the second, third and fourth floors of this Grade II listed south facing building is a magnificent apartment offering spectacular views over Hyde Park Gardens. 5 bedrooms (3 with en suite bathroom and dressing room), bathroom, reception room, dining room, kitchen, breakfast room, cloakroom, 24 hour porter, lift, access to communal gardens.

Approximately 322 sq.m (3,475 sq.ft) Guide Price: ÂŁ4,950,000 (HPE110110)

KnightFrank.co.uk/HydePark hydepark@knightfrank.com 020 3544 6140

Combining the services of a five-star hotel with the discretion, comfort and security of a private Mayfair residence, Grosvenor House Apartments by Jumeirah Living offer unparalleled luxury and a highly personalised service to make residents feel instantly at home.

Arranged over seven floors and available for long or short let, the apartments range in size from state of the art studios to four breathtaking penthouses over looking Hyde Park.

Price on Application

273049_MayfairMag_KF_May12.indd 1

02/04/2012 13:17

PROPERTY

a WiSe

investment?

not a time to take risks, the current climate demands that investors get it right

Since 2010, one in three of my clients has been looking to acquire property in London for investment and therefore the issue of ‘getting it right’ has never been more relevant. in this somewhat challenging market, it is crucial that investors ‘buy right’ and resist the temptation to take the kind of risks that can appeal in more buoyant conditions. So the choice of postcode becomes the single most important decision in the buying process. the appeal of trendy, fringe locations and up-and-coming areas should be resisted at all costs, in favour of the more established addresses such as mayfair, Belgravia, Knightsbridge, notting hill and Kensington. although it is true that these prime locations come with a higher price tag, it will always be money well spent. in a strong market, properties in fringe locations will sell, albeit in a longer time frame. however, in a weaker market they will quickly become

less appealing as serious buyers will always be inclined to wait for a property with a stronger investment guarantee. the selection process doesn’t stop at the postcode because there are very real sensitivities associated with the exact street and even the right position on that street that can make a significant difference to the value of a property. Does the house face in the right direction? is the apartment on the right level? is the layout appealing? all these questions, and more, need to be addressed carefully and, likewise, it is important not to be seduced by a house just because of the square footage. if it is in a secondary location, it will struggle to sell. my advice to investors in this market is to ensure that the property you are poised to buy ticks pretty much all of the required boxes. if it doesn’t and if you have doubts, then it would be well within your interest to wait.

Simon Barnes Property Consultants www.simonbarnes.com

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

155

AYFAI

M

R

M

Re

coM Mend

s

hoT PRoPeRTy:

Glendore House, Clarges Street

The former home of Peter sellers, a light-filled, terraced penthouse is now available in the heart of Mayfair

This sTunning, light-filled penthouse has been exceptionally well designed to provide a bright living space of approximately 204 sq m, with three bedrooms, conservatory and terrace. The building itself also has refurbished communal parts, excellent porterage and secure underground parking.

This property comes with quite a decadent history, as the penthouse was once home to Peter sellers, back in the mid 1960s.

he threw outrageous parties for the celebrities of the era at the apartment and it is also where he was reputed to have entertained Princess Margaret.

This part of Mayfair is now enjoying a renaissance with the opening of Robin Birley’s new member’s club, along with a variety of recently renovated restaurants, bars and boutiques. it is also close to the cultural heart of London and the wide, green spaces of green Park and hyde Park.

PROPERTY

Glendore House, Clarges Street Price on application, Leasehold: approximately 95 years unexpired:

Sotheby’s International Realty 020 7495 9580 www.sothebysrealty.com

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

157

savills.co.uk

1 A VERY DESIRABLE BELGRAVIA TOWNHOUSE CLOSE TO SLOANE SQUARE eaton terrace, sw1 Drawing room ø dining room ø family/breakfast room ø study ø media room ø kitchen ø master bedroom suite ø 5 further bedrooms ø 3 further bathrooms ø utility room ø gym ø cloakroom ø garden terrace ø 366 sq m (3,941 sq ft) Price on application Freehold

Savills Knightsbridge

Savills Sloane Street

Barbara Allen baallen@savills.com

Richard Gutteridge rgutteridge@savills.com

020 7581 5234

020 7730 0822

savills.co.uk

1 A STUNNING FAMILY HOUSE REFURBISEHD TO A VERY HIGH STANDARD belgravia, sw1 Double reception room ø kichen breakfast room ø multi-media room ø 4/5 bedrooms ø 4/5 bath/ shower rooms ø swimming pool ø steam room ø gym ø untility room ø 3 car garage ø porterage ø roof terrace ø 505 sq m (5,434 sq ft) Guide £15.95 million Freehold

Savills Sloane Street

Savills Knightsbridge

Noel De Keyzer ndekeyzer@savills.com

Barbara Allen baallen@savills.com

020 7730 0822

020 7581 5234

savills.co.uk

1 BELGRAVIA TOWNHOUSE IN HIGHLY DESIRABLE QUIET LOCATION caroline terrace, sw1 Double reception room ø dining room ø family room ø kitchen ø master bedroom suite with dressing area ø 3 further bedrooms ø bathroom ø laundry ø terrace ø garden ø 191 sq m (2,064 sq ft) Guide £3.85 million Freehold

Savills Sloane Street

Savills Knightsbridge

Richard Gutteridge rgutteridge@savills.com

Matthew Morton-Smith mmsmith@savills.com

020 7730 0822

020 7581 5234

savills.co.uk

1 FIFTH FLOOR FLAT OVERLOOKING GROSVENOR SQUARE grosvenor square, w1 Entrance hall ø reception room ø study ø kitchen ø master bedroom suite with dressing room ø guest bedroom suite with dressing room ø further dressing room ø shower room ø guest cloakroom ø 24 hour porter ø lift ø 188 sq m (2,024 sq ft)

Guide £6.5 million Leasehold, plus Share of Freehold

Savills Mayfair Claire Reynolds creynolds@savills.com

020 7578 5100

A BEAUTIFULLY REFURBISHED DUPLEX APARTMENT ON THE GROUND AND LOWER GROUND FLOORS OF A PERIOD BUILDING

GREEN STREET MAYFAIR W1 ACCOMMODATION Entrance hall; reception room; sitting room; dining room; kitchen; master bedroom suite; 2 further bedroom suites; utility room; guest cloakroom; patio; 212 sq m (2,275 sq ft)

125 Year Lease Guide £4,250,000 Subject to Contract Joint Sole Agents

102 Mount Street, London W1K 2TH

020 7529 5566 wetherell.co.uk

savills.co.uk

1 LUXURIOUS ACCOMMODATION IN THIS SUPERB MEWS HOUSE belgrave mews south, sw1 4 bedrooms ø 2 reception rooms ø 4 bathrooms ø kitchen ø guest cloakroom ø garage ø 353 sq m (3,800 sq ft)

Savills Sloane Street Mark Tunstall mtunstall@savills.com

020 7824 9005 £7,950 per week Flexible furnishings

savills.co.uk

1 BRIGHT SPLIT LEVEL APARTMENT IN A PERIOD BUILDING green street, w1 3 bedrooms ø reception room ø 3 bathrooms ø kitchen ø guest cloakroom ø balcony ø lift ø 195 sq m (2,099 sq ft)

Savills Mayfair Guy Bradshaw gbradshaw@savills.com

020 7578 5101 £3,500 per week Furnished

savills.co.uk

1

BRIGHT APARTMENT SITUATED WITHIN A HANDSOME PERIOD BUILDING aldford street, w1 3 bedrooms ø reception room ø kitchen ø 3 bathrooms ø dining room ø private garden ø 234 sq m (2,523 sq ft) £2,750 per week Furnished

Savills Mayfair

2

Guy Bradshaw gbradshaw@savills.com

020 7578 5101

NEWLY REFURBISHED APARTMENT IN THE HEART OF ST JAMES'S ryder street, sw1 2 bedrooms ø reception room ø kitchen ø 2 bathrooms ø 157 sq m (1,689 sq ft) £2,250 per week Unfurnished

Savills Mayfair Guy Bradshaw gbradshaw@savills.com

020 7578 5101

Hamptons Mayfair

020 7717 5465 mayfair@hamptons-int.com

Crabtree Place, Fitzrovia, W1 An exclusive and stunning development of contemporary townhouses with three bedrooms, three bathrooms, two receptions, patio, balconies and views towards the iconic BT Tower.

Hamptons Mayfair 020 7717 5465 mayfair@hamptons-int.com

In the year of medals, we are already on a winning streak.

Hamptons International Silver for Best for UK Large Estate Agency and Best for Marketing.

ÂŁ2,795,000 Leasehold 2 Reception rooms Kitchen 3 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms Balcony Roof terrace

Hamptons Knightsbridge

020 7717 5463 knightsbridgelettings@hamptons-int.com

Queen’s Gate, SW7

£1,050 per week Furnished

An immaculately presented two bedroom apartment situated along the tree lined Queen’s Gate within striking distance of the museums and the heart of Knightsbridge.

Spacious reception Separate kitchen 2 bedroom 2 bathroom Balcony

Hamptons Knightsbridge 020 7717 5463 knightsbridgelettings@hamptons-int.com

Here. There. Everywhere. We were the first UK estate agency to launch an app for iPad, and an app for iPhone, and our website has hundreds of thousands of visitors each month. Wether you want to buy, sell, let or rent, it couldn’t be easier.

Hamptons Paddington 020 7717 5473

paddington@hamptons-int.co.uk

Cleveland Square, W2 An interior designed maisonette on this sought after garden square bordering Hyde Park.

Unique features of this stunning apartment include a private entrance, grand entrance hallway, a swimming pool, gymnasium/games room plus maids quarters. With high ceilings throughout on the ground floor a fantastic double reception room this property also offers fantastic entertaining space.

Paddington 020 7717 5473 paddington@hamptons-int.co.uk

In the year of medals, we are already on a winning streak.

Hamptons International Silver for Best for UK Large Estate Agency and Best for Marketing.

ÂŁ6,500,000 Share of Freehold White Stucco Fronted Building Private Entrance Ground Floor Double Reception Room TV Room/Gymnasium Four Bedrooms (All En-suite) Access to Residents Garden Square

Hamptons Pimlico & Westminster 020 7715315

pimwest@hamptons-int.com

Great Peter Street, SW1

From £1,650,000 to £2,975,000 Leasehold

Welcome to 35 Great Peter Street, Westminster. An historic building nestling in the middle of one of the most historic and important areas of London. This is a rare opportunity to own a fabulous luxury London home surrounded by the country’s most powerful people and institutions.

Pimlico & Westminister 020 7715315 pimwest@hamptons-int.com

Photos are of the show apartment on the first floor 999 year lease Fully available for occupation Access via video entry phone system and CCTV Integrated Comfort Cooling Only four apartments remaining

Here. There. Everywhere. We were the first UK estate agency to launch an app for iPad, and an app for iPhone, and our website has hundreds of thousands of visitors each month. Wether you want to buy, sell, let or rent, it couldn’t be easier.

Nightingale House, Marylebone W1 A historic family house situated on the site of Florence Nightingale’s clinic.

Five bedrooms • Four reception rooms • Roof terrace • Garage parking Approximately 6,120 sq ft / 567 sq m

020 7495 9580

sophie.panizzo@sothebysrealty.co.uk

Price on application Freehold

Over 600 Offices in 46 Countries

DPS1 LHP_273063_Sothebys_Mayfair Mag_May12.indd 1

sothebysrealty.co.uk

10/04/2012 15:07

DPS

11th - 15th June

Going the extra mile…

Sotheby’s International Realty will be travelling to Moscow to showcase over £750m worth of prime UK property to key Russian buyers from the 11th - 15th June 2012.

We work closely with our office in Moscow and with Sotheby’s auction house, both of which provides us with a unique source of potential purchasers.

If you are thinking of selling your property and would like it to travel 1,559 miles to Moscow, we would be delighted to hear from you. Или если вы предпочтёте общаться с русско-говорящим представителем, пожалуйста звоните Светлане Щёлоковой и она будет рада помочь +44 (0) 20 7495 9580 russia@sothebysrealty.co.uk

Wimpole Street, Marylebone W1 A stylish triplex apartment situated in a fine Georgian building.

Kitchen/dining area • First floor lateral double reception room • Two bedrooms • Two en-suite bathrooms • Media room/third bedroom • Balcony Sauna • Sunken Jacuzzi • Approximately 2,783 sq ft / 258 sq m

020 7495 9580

svetlana.shcholokova@sothebysrealty.co.uk

Guide Price: £4,250,000 Leasehold with 108 years remaining

Over 600 Offices in 46 Countries

DPS2 LHP_273064_Sothebys_Mayfair Mag_May12.indd 1

sothebysrealty.co.uk

10/04/2012 15:10

DPS

Acacia Road, St John’s Wood NW8 A charming Grade II listed house situated in the favoured part of St John’s Wood.

Kitchen/breakfast room • Reception room • Dining room • Five bedrooms South facing garden • Two off-street parking spaces Approximately 2,920 sq ft / 271 sq m

020 7495 9580

casper.tham@sothebysrealty.co.uk

Guide Price: £5,250,000 Freehold

Over 600 Offices in 46 Countries

15:10

DPS2 RHP_273064_Sothebys_Mayfair Mag_May12.indd 2

sothebysrealty.co.uk

10/04/2012 15:10

this month’s

Mayfair home to buy

Chesterton Humberts is the proud property sponsor of MINT Polo in the Park hurlingham – 8th to 10th june 2012

South Audley Street w1k

£7,995,000 freehold

A substantial interior designed period townhouse comprising 3 magnificent reception rooms, dining room, spacious fully fitted kitchen with breakfast area, 4 en-suite bedrooms, a further 5th bedroom, 3 guest cloakrooms, utility room, vault storage, courtyard & lift.

Mayfair Sales

020 7629 4513

v

sales.mayfair@chestertonhumberts.com

chestertonhumberts.com

upper Brook Street w1k

£3,995,000 leasehold

A prestigious south facing 2 en-suite bedroom apartment set within an impressive period building with a generous reception/dining room offering views towards Grosvenor Square, lift & long lease.

Curzon Street w1j

£2,595,000 leasehold

An impressive & stylish, recently refurbished Mayfair apartment comprising reception/dining room, fitted kitchen, master bedroom suite, 2nd bedroom, bathroom, lift, porter & a long lease.

Mayfair Sales

020 7629 4513

v

sales.mayfair@chestertonhumberts.com

new CAvendiSh Street w1

£2,295,000 leasehold

A substantial family apartment situated on the 5th (top) floor of a well established building with lift. Offering 2 reception rooms, kitchen, 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms & a guest cloakroom. Long lease.

hertford Street w1j

£1,895,000 leasehold

A stunning double aspect Mayfair penthouse set within a fine Art Deco building, offering outstanding views across London, 3 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, lift, porter & long lease.

Mayfair Sales

020 7629 4513

v

sales.mayfair@chestertonhumberts.com

chestertonhumberts.com

this this month’s month’s

Mayfair Mayfair home home toto rent buy

Chesterton Chesterton Humberts Humberts is the is the proud proud property property sponsor sponsor of of MINT MINT Polo Polo in in thethe Park Park hurlingham hurlingham – 8th – 8th to 10th to 10th june june 2012 2012

Green Street w1k South Audley Street w1k

£2,500 per week £7,995,000 freehold

An elegant duplex apartment set within a period building with direct access to Green Street Gardens.

A substantial interior designed period townhouse comprising 3 magnificent reception rooms, dining room, spacious The accommodation occupies approx.1,980 sq ft & comprises 3 en-suite bedrooms, a beautiful reception fully fitted kitchen with breakfast area, 4 en-suite bedrooms, a further 5th bedroom, 3 guest cloakrooms, utility room, room,spacious contemporary kitchen & guest cloakroom. vault storage, courtyard & lift.

Mayfair Mayfair Lettings Sales

020 020 7288 7629 8301 4513v vlettings.mayfair@chestertonhumberts.com sales.mayfair@chestertonhumberts.com

chestertonhumberts.com chestertonhumberts.com

Aldford Street w1k

ArlinGton houSe sw1a

£2,750 per week

A magnificent 3 bedroom apartment, circa 2,500 sq ft, with parquet flooring & high ceilings in all principal rooms, contemporary kitchen & separate dining room with the benefit of a delightful private patio.

£2,700 per week

A spacious 4th floor (direct lift) lateral apartment with of approx. 2,395 sq ft.

With 3 bedrooms (all with en-suites), stunning views over Green Park, air cooling, wood floors throughout & the benefit of a porter.

Mayfair Lettings

020 7288 8301

v

lettings.mayfair@chestertonhumberts.com

Apple tree yArd sw1

£1,200 per week

dAvieS MewS w1k

A brand new contemporary 2 bedroom apartment in the heart of St James’s.

Finished to the absolute highest of standards & benefiting from wood flooring throughout & comfort cooling.

£1,200 per week

A beautifully presented & well proportioned apartment of approx.

1,352 sq ft. benefiting from wood flooring & a private decked terrace.

Accommodation comprising reception/dining room, 2 double bedrooms, 2 en-suite bathrooms & guest cloakroom.

Mayfair Lettings

020 7288 8301

v

lettings.mayfair@chestertonhumberts.com

chestertonhumberts.com

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

Cadogan Square | Knightsbridge | SW1X 1475 Sq Ft (137 Sq M)

An elegant south-facing raised ground floor flat in the handsome colonnaded north terrace, overlooking Cadogan Square gardens.

Entrance hall | South facing reception room | Kitchen/breakfast room | Master bedroom with en suite bathroom | Double bedroom with en suite shower room | Bedroom | Shower room Asking price ÂŁ4,750,000 Leasehold

Knightsbridge 020 7235 9959 JSA: WA ELLIS 020 7306 1600

Scan this QR code with your camera phone to read more about this property.

Free QR code readers are available to download from our website at struttandparker.com/qrcode

The Landmark View | One Hyde Park | SW1X 2890 Sq Ft (268.5 Sq M)

Located at One Hyde Park in fashionable Knightsbridge, this exquisitive ‘turnkey’ 3 bedroom apartment provides extensive lateral accommodation.

Entrance hall | Reception | Dining room | kitchen | Master bedroom with en suite dressing room and bathroom | Two en suite bedrooms | Cloakroom | Building facilities Asking price: On Application Leasehold

Knightsbridge 020 7235 9959

Scan this QR code with your camera phone to read more about this property..

Free QR code readers are available to download from our website at struttandparker.com/qrcode

WHITEHALL COURT A wonderful 2 bed 2 bath apartment on the 3rd floor of this magnificent Victorian mansion block. Modernised to a high standard with a fantastic entertaining space and high ceilings.

Leasehold

£2.2 million

WHITEHALL COURT A magnificent and spacious fourth floor apartment in this impressive Victorian mansion block. Situated alongside the river Thames this apartment boasts high ceilings, three interconnecting reception rooms and stone balconies the full length of the apartment with stunning panoramic views.

Leasehold

020 7839 6006

23a St James’s Street, London, SW1A 1HA

£5.3 million

Horne & Harvey Est. 1803

WHITEHALL COURT The Northern Tower of this spectacular Victorian building. Situated between the River and St James’s Park this unique and spacious penthouse apartment boasts an abundance of natural light and panoramic views across the river and over St James’s. Recently refurbished complete with air conditioning, approximately 4000 sq foot comprising of entrance reception room, ensuite master bedroom with walk in wardrobe, two guest bedrooms in adjoining towers, large dining room, gallery reception room (with 360 degree panoramic views), study and large terrace.

Furnished

£7,500 per week

DALMENY COURT

DE VERE GARDENS W8

A lovely open-plan fifth floor apartment located in this sought after Victorian building in the heart of St James’s. Dalmeny Court is located on Duke Street running down from Jermyn Street to St James’s therefore in the heart of St James’s close to Piccadilly and all the amenities of the West End.

A superb two bedroom, three bathroom apartment in this prestigious period block. Fully furnished and unoccupied since it was refurbished to an exceptionally high standard, the flat has air-conditioning, pale oak floors, under floor heating, high ceilings and lots of natural light.

Furnished

Furnished

£500 per week

£795 per week

www.horneandharvey.co.uk

faronsutaria.co.uk

SALES & LETTINGS

QUEEN’S GATE, SW7 A well proportioned property with a spacious reception room and eat-in kitchen, located within a stucco-fronted house at the north end of Queen’s Gate. Offering direct access to an undemised roof terrace. 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, reception room, cloakroom, lift, porter. £3,000,000 Freehold Share 020 7590 0300 southken@faronsutaria.co.uk

OUR SERVICE WILL MOVE YOU

Mayfair mag May12.indd 3

12/04/2012 14:14

Ma

SALES & LETTINGS

A wiSE MoVE Choosing Faron Sutaria to sell or let your property is a wise decision. our extensive online and print marketing, including our magazine which has a distribution of 100,000 copies, ensures the widest coverage and best results for our clients.

CAMDEN • ChELSEA • ChiSwiCk • EArLS Court • FuLhAM iSLiNGtoN • NottiNG hiLL • ShEphErDS BuSh • South kENSiNGtoN

faronsutaria.co.uk

14:14

Mayfair mag May12.indd 4

12/04/2012 14:14

CAMBRIDGE STREET, SW1 A classic part-stucco fronted family house with superb reception space, on this well regarded street.

5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en suite), shower room, 1st floor drawing room, sitting room, kitchen/dining/family room, study, utility room, cloakroom, roof terrace, patio, balcony, under pavement storage vault.

Freehold Guide Price ÂŁ2,795,000

BELGRAVIA 020 7824 7900 belgravia@johndwood.co.uk

www.johndwood.co.uk

May

JOHN D WOOD & CO.smopolitan With 140 years of experience we are often the first port of call for overseas buyers and tenants looking to live in central London. This international profile is backed by extensive online and print marketing to achieve the very best results for our clients.

Mayfair mag May12.indd 2

12/04/2012 14:12

PARK SAINT JAMES ST JOHN’S WOOD NW8

A truly remarkable seventh floor, three bedroom apartment (176sq m/1,899sq ft) which has been extensively remodelled and refurbished to the highest possible specification by the current owners. Featuring sensational south facing views over Regent’s Park and the Central London skyline from both the terrace and the principal reception rooms, the apartment further benefits from every conceivable modern amenity including air conditioning, under floor heating, Lutron lighting system and an integrated audio visual system.

Park St James is widely regarded as one of the finest blocks on Prince Albert Road and is superbly located opposite Regents Park, within close proximity of all of the amenities of both Primrose Hill and St John’s Wood, including St John’s Wood Underground Station.

ACCOMMODATION AND AMENITIES Principal Bedroom with full En-Suite Bathroom & Fitted Wardrobes, 2 Further Bedrooms both with En-Suite Bathrooms & Fitted Wardrobes, Reception Room, Dining Room, Fully Fitted Poggenpohl Kitchen with Gaggenau Appliances, Guest Cloakroom, Utility Room, Large South Facing Terrace, Lutron Lighting System, Fully Integrated Audio Visual System, Fully Air Conditioned throughout, Resident Concierge, Underground Parking for One Car & Forecourt Parking available by separate negotiation.

SHARE OF FREEHOLD

St John’s Wood

020 7586 2777

JOINT SOLE AGENTS

POA

HAMPSHIRE HOuSE This magnificent five bedroom newly refurbished apartment on the fourth floor of this elegant portered building has south facing views from six windows overlooking Hyde Park.

Accommodation comprises of reception room, dining room, study, five double bedrooms with four en-suites and one separate shower room, kitchen and separate laundry room, guest cloakroom and separate staff cloakroom, air cooling and underfloor heating in the principle rooms with individual thermostats, Lutron controlled blinds and lighting system and surround sound system. Lift and porter.

Leasehold: Approx. 88 years remaining ÂŁ5,950,000 020 7409 9205 alexander.richards@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

EMBASSY COURT, ST JOhnS WOOd, nW3 A superb, recently completed three bedroom lateral apartment in this prestigious building in St Johns Wood. Embassy Court benefits from 24 hour concierge, CCTV and fantastic communal areas. The apartment has high ceilings and has been furnished to an excellent standard to complement the high standard of finish. This includes marble flooring, beautiful bathrooms, high spec kitchen with Gaggenau appliances, large balcony and air conditioning. In addition, there is an underground parking space.

Available, furnished.

ÂŁ3,500 pw 020 7409 9158 robin.boghhenrikssen@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

AYFAI

M

R

M

Re

coM Mend

s

HOT PROPERTy:

Green Street, W1

A stunning split level apartment in prime Mayfair

A SPACIOUS AND ELEGANT APARTMENT set over two floors, boasting a grand south-facing reception room with high ceilings and doors leading out onto a pretty balcony. The large fully fitted eat-in kitchen makes for great additional entertaining space. The modern glass and stone staircase leads up to a spacious master bedroom with ample storage and an en-suite bathroom with walk-in shower.

There are two further double bedrooms and two bathrooms. This property has been finished to an exceptionally high standard with stunning furniture and an integrated media system. Located in the heart of Mayfair near Marble Arch and Bond Street Underground Stations, Green Street is also a stone’s throw from the open spaces of Hyde Park. Early viewings are essential.

PROPERTY

Green Street, Mayfair, W1 ÂŁ3,500 per week, Furnished

Hamptons International 020 7717 5467 www.hamptons.co.uk

t h e M AY FA I R m a g a z i n e

193

the smart way to BUY or SELL your property

A service defined by discretion and dedication that will save you time and money. His extensive experience in property consultancy takes the pain and effort out of the buying and selling process, and any problems that you would usually encounter, become his problems and not yours. After all, achieving the best possible outcome in anything is all about finding someone who can do the job better than you.

work smarter, not harder.

T: 020 7499 3434 M: 078 3146 5414 simon@simonbarnes.com www.simonbarnes.com