The Mayfair Magazine December 2017 by Runwild Media Group

DECEMBER 2017 s issue 075 s £5

IT’S A

WRAP Tastemakers of the luxury world reveal their ultimate Christmas gifts

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of occasion RUNWILD MEDIA GROUP

Indulgent hampers, top festive tipples and dressing your best for the party season

nigel havers takes to the stage s warhol’s illustrated books s colombo city break

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171 NEW BOND STREET LONDON W1S 4RD 0207 907 8800 FINE JEWELLERY ROOM HARRODS LONDON SW1X 7XL 0207 907 8899 HARRYWINSTON.COM

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60 60 YEARS YEARS OFOF ADVENTURE ADVENTURE AND AND DISCOVERY DISCOVERY

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CONTENTS December 2017 77

Regulars 12 Editor’s letter 14 Five minutes with... Olivia von Halle 16 Couture culture The worlds of fashion, film and art collide 60 Feast your eyes Indulge in fine fashion, lustrous jewels and only the most chic tableware 102 Remembering Mayfair Storied wine merchant Berry Bros. & Rudd

92 35

Features 18

In present company Festive giving and receiving, according to favourite tastemakers

84 48 An open book Discover Andy Warhol’s early years, through his illustrated books 80 Checkmate Whether you favour chess or cards, invest in an elegant game set 88 Christmas cheer Chris Allsop’s guide to tipples and fine vintages 92 Acquired tastes Camilla Apcar picks this season’s top nine holiday hampers 100 Suite dreams Marianne Dick is wowed by the butler service at The Dorchester

30 24 30 38

Master of ceremonies Nigel Havers on theatre, the Oscars and Christmas in Mayfair The real deal Nick Savage goes behind the scenes of London’s casinos with top croupiers Ticking all the boxes An inside look at watchmaker Wempe

35 Collection

57 Fashion

82 Health & beauty

99 Travel

44 Art

77 Interiors

84 Food & drink

104 Property

Our service matches our watches: It’s perpetual.

43–44 New Bond Street, London W1S 2SA london�wempe.com +44(0)20 7493 2299

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15.09.17 10:19

DECEMBER 2017 s issue 075

Editor Hannah Lemon Deputy Editor Camilla Apcar Contributing Editor Lauren Romano

FEATURE

present company

The capital’s tastemakers reveal what they want to give – and receive – this Christmas

e Karam Sethi

Founder, JKS restaurants

Jewellery Editor Mhairi Graham Watch Editor Richard Brown Assistant Editor Marianne Dick Editorial Intern Nicole Abbott Senior Designer & Brand Consistency Laddawan Juhong Production Alice Ford Jamie Steele Hugo Wheatley General Manager Fiona Smith Executive Director Sophie Roberts Managing Director Eren Ellwood

Proudly published by

editor e

From the

“I received a print of Francis Bacon’s Self Portrait Seated (1970) one Christmas – that was a memorable gift. This year, I’d like to see the new Herringbone griddle pan from Crane Cookware under the tree. All its pieces combine style and functionality and they’re virtually indestructible. “I also love La Fromagerie. I’m always in the Marylebone shop – it sources fantastic cheeses that can be picked out for Christmas cheeseboards. It also makes up hampers that make for great gifts.” Hoppers is now open in St Christopher’s Place

ABOVE: C6 hErriNGBONE TWO hOB GriDDlE PAN, £145, cranecookware.coM

Paul Smith

Designer

Jason Basmajian

Creative director, Cerruti

“The best Christmas present I have ever received was a surprise visit from my entire family when I first moved to Paris. It was great. We celebrated together in my apartment and it really underlined what Christmas means to me: time with loved ones. “It’s a pleasure to give, but we have a no gifts policy among close friends and family. Instead, I would like to give my time and experience to young people in the industry who need guidance. We started a collaboration with the Parsons Paris design school this year and it has really inspired me to share my knowledge with the next generation. “In return, I would like to receive some quiet time with loved ones to read, cook and watch films. As I enjoy travelling I wouldn’t mind a trip away to somewhere I’ve never been, such as Patagonia or Bhutan.”

“Many years ago, my wife Pauline made me a small tapestry with a heart on it. More recently she commissioned somebody to make me a tape measure in ceramic, which she put into a box covered in tailoring fabric that she’d hand-stitched. I really value gifts that involve effort and thought. “For the family it gets more and more difficult every year. We’ve given ‘the camera’, ‘the painting’, ‘the holiday’ and so on. But I always try to be attentive to conversations and register when somebody has mentioned something that further down the line might make a nice gift. A friend mentioned to me recently that she was feeling a bit down but that her love of gardening cheered her up, so I bought her a copy of a fantastic book: The Art of Making Gardens by another friend of mine, Luciano Giubbilei.” ABOVE: Luciano GiubbiLei: The arT of MakinG GarDenS, MErrEll PuBlishErs, £45, MerreLLpubLiSherS.coM

Amanda Wakeley Fashion designer

“One year I was lucky enough to receive Terry O’Neill’s iconic black and white photo of a windswept Brigitte Bardot from my husband Hugh. He had Terry write a special message on it for me. It’s gorgeous. This year I’d like to receive a new pair of powder skis... and a heli-skiing trip to Alaska or Japan to use them! “When it comes to shopping for Hugh, my first port of call is always Berluti. Every piece is so beautifully designed and crafted; I think I get as much pleasure choosing a present from there as he does receiving it. Connolly will definitely feature on my Christmas shopping circuit, too – Isabel Ettedgui has done the most incredible job of curating the brand as well as creating a divine retail experience.”

riGhT: Au GrAND jOur lEAThEr POrTfOliO, £1,490, BErluTi, berLuTi.coM

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

“I would like a meal with everyone I love at the same table: the greatest luxury of all” - William Banks-Blaney (p.18) “It’s your place for Christmas this year and it’s the full set,” writes Chris Allsop on page 88. The humorous comings and goings of family members present a problem greater than who will argue the most... what will everyone drink? A woody cognac or marmalade vodka – choose from sweet, savoury, punchy or peaty (p.96). Then what to cook? Well, our selection of the most lavish hampers on the market has that covered (p.92). As for gifts, take inspiration from the wishlists of London’s tastemakers: Mark Hix suggests a Cobb barbecue for the person who has everything (p.18). Now to keep everyone entertained – it’s either a trip to see Nigel Havers at the London Palladium (p.24) or a heated game of backgammon (p.80). And for those looking to raise the stakes, we go behind the scenes of London’s premium casinos (p.30). Next year has a lot to live up to.

RUNWILD MEDIA GROUP

6th Floor, One Canada Square, Canary Wharf, London, E14 5AX 020 7987 4320 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 and Chelsea

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Hannah Lemon Editor Follow us on Twitter @MayfairMagazine and Instagram @themayfairmagazine

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brooch, £240; earrings, £110; both Carolina Herrera, carolinaherrera.com

luxurylondon.co.uk A website. A mindset. A lifestyle.

The Yacht-Master The emblematic nautical watch embodies a yachting heritage that stretches back to the 1950s. It doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just tell time. It tells history.

oyster perpetual YACHT-MASTER 40

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watch featured subject to stock availability

Regulars

5 minutes with... clothes so I made my name a brand instead.

I grew up in Kent (below) on a farm. I have fond memories of riding my first horse, Sparkle. hyde park, image credit: i wei huang/shutterstock

Now I live in Ladbroke Grove. I love the markets and the vibrancy of the area.

London is best for autumn walks through Hyde Park

On weekends I like to unwind

(above). I go with my son, husband and dog.

by escaping to the country, chilling out and riding my horse, Herman.

My favourite place in Mayfair is Mount Street.

My most treasured item of clothing is a black velvet opera

Jessica McCormack’s salon on Carlos Place is definitely London’s best kept secret.

My first job

JESSICA MCCORMACK ON MOUNT STREET

involved dancing outside a shop called Girl Heaven in Dartford’s Bluewater shopping centre, dressed as a fairy. I was 16.

My most unusual job has been working as a ‘drag princess’ in a nightclub in Leeds. There’s a bit of a theme here!

Setting up my own fashion brand in Islington was exciting, extremely hard work and terrifying at times. For five years, I worked through every holiday.

coat my grandmother made my mother when she was a teenager.

OLIVIA VON HALLE The founder of the eponymous silk sleepwear brand on snuggling up for winter in the countryside

“This year, I’ve asked Father Christmas to leave a side saddle under the tree” kent, image credit: andrew fletcher/ shutterstock

The Vampire’s Wife, Rejina Pyo and Olivia von Halle, of course.

Over the next few months, we’re launching bespoke silk puffa jackets, pink cashmere tracksuits and pyjamas covered in jewels and ladybirds.

STELLA GREEN FLASH SILK PUFFER JACKET, £895, oliviavonhalle.com

For Christmas, both mine and my husband’s families will be coming to ours. It’ll be chaos.

I’ve asked Father Christmas

Do I have any regrets? None I can say here.

The model Isabella Blow has been my greatest inspiration,

it would be my engagement ring.

to leave me a side saddle under the tree this year.

I buy clothes at Alessandra Rich,

although my parents certainly influenced my ambitions: I was never allowed to have branded

But if there was only one item I could save from a fire,

My only advice is Left: boots and helmet, image credit: nicole gordine/shutterstock

don’t listen to anyone’s advice. Follow your gut.

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

Regulars

The Season of Giving

2 1

d trust ©The shepar

Streetsmart has raised more than £8.2m for homeless people over two decades by adding a voluntary £1 to diners’ bills. Stop by restaurants such as Bellamy’s, Kitty Fisher’s and Gymkhana to donate to a good cause after enjoying a delicious dinner. streetsmart.org.uk

COUTURE CULTURE

Get wrapped up Novikov Restaurant & Bar’s annual Christmas market in Mayfair Place will feature stalls full of Yuletide nibbles and unique gifts. Don’t miss the carol singers or Father Christmas, who will be joined by one of his red-nosed friends on the Saturday. 1-2 December, novikovrestaurant.co.uk

Silly Old Bear For the first time in almost 40 years, the V&A will present a variety of original drawings and memorabilia of A.A. Milne and E.H. Shepard’s Winnie-the-Pooh. The exhibition will feature around 230 works from 1920 to the present day. 9 December – 8 April 2018, vam.ac.uk

3 Furry friends From angelic mice to cuddly polar bears, Steiff’s charming plush toys are handmade in Germany from the finest mohair, including this Christmas Teddy Bear – a classic collectable. £99, steiff.com

5 A Christmas Cracker Let The Royal Ballet transport you to a world of magic with Peter Wright’s production of The Nutcracker. Lev Ivanov’s 1892 ballet has become a seasonal favourite, with its dancing snowflakes, wintery Victorian scenery and Tchaikovsky’s enchanting score. 5 December – 10 January 2018, roh.org.uk

Doughnut miss OUT Bread Ahead has launched a pop-up café in Mayfair, following the success of its bakeries and schools in Borough Market and Chelsea. Be sure to try the Christmas pudding doughnut – topped with a gingerbread biscuit and rolled in cinnamon sugar – while you can. Until late January, 42 North Audley Street, W1K, breadahead.com

©kira zumkley

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

ADV SANTI&SANTI - PHOTO P.BRAMATI

CAVE COLLECTION BY MARCO PIVA – DESIGN: ACQUASANTA LOOP WOOL & SILK AND WOOL & SILK RELIEF - 400X300 CM

P ARIS МAISON ET OBJET JANUARY 19-23, 2018 HALL 8

present company

The capital’s tastemakers reveal what they want to give – and receive – this Christmas

e Karam Sethi

Founder, JKS restaurants

ABOVE: C6 HERRINGBONE TWO HOB GRIDDLE PAN, £145, cranecookware.com

Paul Smith

Designer “Many years ago, my wife Pauline made me a small tapestry with a heart on it. More recently she commissioned somebody to make me a tape measure in ceramic, which she put into a box covered in tailoring fabric that she’d hand-stitched. I really value gifts that involve effort and thought. “For the family it gets more and more difficult every year. We’ve given ‘the camera’, ‘the painting’, ‘the holiday’ and so on. But I always try to be attentive to conversations and register when somebody has mentioned something that further down the line might make a nice gift. A friend mentioned to me recently that she was feeling a bit down but that her love of gardening cheered her up, so I bought her a copy of a fantastic book: The Art of Making Gardens by another friend of mine, Luciano Giubbilei.” ABOVE: Luciano Giubbilei: The Art of Making GARDENS, Merrell Publishers, £45, merrellpublishers.com

FEATURE

Jason Basmajian

Creative director, Cerruti “The best Christmas present I have ever received was a surprise visit from my entire family when I first moved to Paris. It was great. We celebrated together in my apartment and it really underlined what Christmas means to me: time with loved ones. “It’s a pleasure to give, but we have a no gifts policy among close friends and family. Instead, I would like to give my time and experience to young people in the industry who need guidance. We started a collaboration with the Parsons Paris design school this year and it has really inspired me to share my knowledge with the next generation. “In return, I would like to receive some quiet time with loved ones to read, cook and watch films. As I enjoy travelling I wouldn’t mind a trip away to somewhere I’ve never been, such as Patagonia or Bhutan.”

Amanda Wakeley Fashion designer

right: au grand jour leather portfolio, £1,490, berluti, berluti.com

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

e David Gandy Model

“I’ve had so many great presents from so many great people – it would be too hard to choose one in particular. I think the thought someone puts into it is the most important thing. I always aim to make my presents personal, although above all I prefer to see friends and family and to get everyone together. There isn’t anything I need, so spending time with the people who are special and important to me is what it’s all about.” David Gandy is ambassador for luxury menswear brand London Sock Company, londonsockcompany.com

IMAGE CREDIT: ALAN CLARKE

Carmel Allen

Creative director, Linley “The present I loved most was from my parents, who were notoriously bad at gift giving because there were nine children and everything was rather last minute. I’d finished university and was heading off to Rome to complete my studies, so they gave me a very special watch with Roman numerals. I was blown away that they’d given it so much thought and I still wear it every day. “I love Peter Hone’s architectural plaster casts and will be buying a few from the Sir John Soane’s Museum for close friends. The British Museum and the V&A shops are treasure troves and I tend to do a lot of my Christmas shopping there. The Foot of Hermes from the British Museum is definitely for the ‘what do you buy for someone who has everything’ list. From Linley, I’ll be buying lots of AlphaBoxes for my godchildren and sisters – everyone loves a box with their initial on it. I hope I receive one in my stocking, too.”

ABOVE: alphabox, £150, linley, davidlinley.com; right: the foot of hermes, £50, british museum, britishmuseumshoponline.org

IMAGE CREDIT: MEL YATES

FEATURE

RIGHT: TOLEDO 1951, £POA, VACHERON CONSTANTIN, Vacheron-constantin.com

Mark Hix

Francis Sultana

Chef

Interior designer

“The chef Valentine Warner gave me a brass pestle and mortar that once belonged to the food writer Elizabeth David, five piece gourmet knife set, £525, and it’s still the best flintandflame.co.uk gift I’ve ever received. “As you can imagine, I’ve tried and tested dozens of knives over the years. They should be a purchase for life and, if looked after, will certainly outlive you. Flint and Flame knives are of unbeatable quality and have the right look and feel – you can even get your name engraved into the rosewood handle. I’ll be giving them as gifts this year. I’d like a Cobb barbecue. I love cooking fish straight out of the sea, but hot barbecues are a tad tricky onboard a boat. You can pick up and move the Cobb tabletop barbecue with your bare hands while lunch is on the go.”

“I’m currently designing and making a customised desk with internal drawers for my partner David Gill – it’s something that he will use every day. The best gift I’ve ever received was a Toledo Vacheron Constantin watch, but this year I’d like a ten-day holiday to Mustique.”

IMAGE CREDIT: TOMO BREJC

Alice Temperley Fashion designer

“I once received a beautiful huge hippopotamus skull that now lives in my kitchen – it reminds me of seeing them on the river banks in Kenya when I was a kid. I make a few special gifts every year. It’s easier as we get one person from the family to buy for as a secret Santa. This means you can really think about making it personal. First up, I will be making my boyfriend a textile hanging for some large windows in his new house. “I’d like to be taken on an adventure... or even just be treated to breakfast in bed. I’m a hopeless romantic and surprises and being super thoughtful are always the best, no matter how big or small.”

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

Ozwald Boateng Fashion designer

“The best present I’ve ever received is my kids. If I could give anything this Christmas, I’d give my parents more time. I’d also like to find a new bikram yoga spot in central London because the one I used to go to has just closed down and yoga is the only gift I give myself.”

Emma Bridgewater Potter

“Perhaps my all-time favourite gift was a bundle of sticks that turned into a cherry orchard, an inspired present from my husband Matthew one year. Now, ten years later, it is a cloud of blossom in spring and produces baskets full of fruit in summer. The most exciting thing is when a present lasts a lifetime. For our wedding in 1987, we were given a wind-up leather tape measure that has measured all our houses and gardens since: an unqualified success. When it comes to giving gifts, I’m spoilt for choice in having our own factory that makes the most perfect personalised pottery. A teapot and some mugs with the name of the recipient is probably a favourite gift of mine.”

personalised polka dot teapot, from £59.95, emma bridgewater, emmabridgewater.co.uk

Martine Assouline Co-founder, Assouline

“My printer gave my husband Prosper and I the best gift possible when we received La Colombe d’Or. It was the first copy of the first book by Assouline Publishing and will always be very special to me for many reasons; one of them being that both of us had contributed so much to the creation of it as authors. This year, I’m going to smile – not only to the ones who smile back, but to everyone just as an invitation to feel better.”

LA COLOMBE D’OR, $85, ASSOULINE.COM

FEATURE

Jason Atherton Chef

“My wife, Irha, bought me a Rolex for my 40th birthday. We didn’t have much at the time and we were religiously saving up for a house, but she had been putting money away for a while. I was so touched by it. I would love to buy her a beach house in the Philippines, her home country; somewhere for us to relax and contemplate life together – the beaches over there are incredible. I’d also organise a river cruise for my parents, as they’re always saying they’d love to go on one. “If Father Christmas were a Michelin inspector, I would love a second star for Pollen Street Social please. I promise to leave him a glass of milk and a cookie.”

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

yacht-master ii, £13,700, rolex, rolex.com

William Banks-Blaney Founder, William Vintage “The most amazing gift I have ever received was from a couple whose house I decorated in New York when I was an interior designer. They gave me an original Warhol. “This Christmas, I’m aiming to give all my closest friends something that has their birthstone in it. I, on the other hand, would like a solid silver ice cream pint holder and a meal with everyone I love at the same table: the greatest luxury of all.”

THIS PAGE: nigel havers at the chariots of fire re-release in 2012. CREDIT: Featureflash Photo Agency/ Shutterstock.com OVERLEAF: AS cAPTAIN nigel IN the LONDON PALLADIUMâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S DICK WHITTINGTON

Master

ceremonies

INTERVIEW

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

As Nigel Havers prepares to step into the spotlight at the London Palladium for this season’s festive panto, Hannah Lemon succumbs to his gentlemanly charm

first met Nigel Havers at The Mayfair Awards 2016. Of course, I was well acquainted with his achievements before that point: BAFTA nominee for Chariots of Fire, a suave escort in Coronation Street and a Downton Abbey schmoozer. But there he was, flirting with Mayfair’s elite, who reciprocated with hoots of laughter. Yet, when I ring him up a few months later for this interview and bring up his reputation as an on-screen lothario, he seems oblivious. “I don’t know whether I’m smooth and charming. I think people say I always play that type of character, but I’ve played my fair share of nasty people,” he replies in his soft, cut-glass accent. “Wait, you’re right, I am often cast as [a charmer], aren’t I?” Then goes on to refer to himself as a “sort of younger version of Leslie Phillips – and he’s still going!” But I think he does it better than Phillips. The silver hair that strays across his forehead, the sharp suits and his posh tone have made many weak at the knees. Earlier this year, Havers got a slot on Piers Morgan’s Life Stories and through his candid account of love affairs and bouts of depression, viewers were enrapt. “My wife said about a year ago that ‘if Piers Morgan ever asks you to go on his show you must promise me you’ll never do it’. So I didn’t tell her I was doing it until the day before, and she was very cross with me, but said, ‘okay, here’s the deal: you do the show, and I get a puppy.’” Safe to say Mrs Havers (aka Georgiana Bronfman) received her puppy. What was it like being grilled by the ex-editor of News of the World? “I can say this because my wife’s not here, but I quite like him, you know, he’s a mate,” smiles Havers. “I have a sneaky admiration because he’s so outspoken, isn’t he? And people really hate him, don’t they? And he doesn’t give a s**t! He’s a real character. You need outrageous characters like that, actually, to pop up on telly.” Haver’s next appearance will be in the London Palladium’s Dick Whittington for the Christmas panto season, for which he is playing Captain Nigel 12 times a week. “I think I’ve done [panto season] now for 14 years, can you believe it? But this one at the Palladium is the greatest. It is the most enjoyable. Normally I have to go and live somewhere like Birmingham or Manchester, but to be home is terrific. And also the theatre is such a wonderful one.”

INTERVIEW

Acting wasn’t the most obvious choice for Havers. Born in Edmonton, north London, in 1951, he was the second son of Baron Havers, attorney general for England and Wales; as well as nephew of Baroness Butler-Sloss, the first female Lord Justice of Appeal; and grandson to high court judge Sir Cecil Havers. The long list of legal heads seems intimidating but, naturally, Havers is unfazed. “There’s enough to worry about without worrying about that, certainly.” And so he went on to work his way up through theatre, television and radio, eventually landing his breakthrough role as Lord Andrew Lindsay in Chariots of Fire. The success brought him worldwide recognition. “We all went to America for the Oscars, and we were told we were never going to win anything,” Havers recalls. “Then it won four Oscars! Can you imagine being in the audience? We just couldn’t believe it.” With that, he went on to star in blockbuster films such as A Passage to India, The Whistle Blower and Empire of the Sun. His personal life has been equally adventurous. Three marriages later, he has since admitted there were numerous flirtations and transgressions when he was younger. Looking back at his career – and personal life – has he learnt from his mistakes? “I haven’t really learnt anything. I just go from one crisis to the next. I don’t mind any more. It’s just a joy to be alive, really.” At 66, he certainly seems young at heart, listing the gym, running, tennis and golf as activities for ‘downtime’. On the topic of age, I ask if he thinks older men have it easier than older women in the acting industry. “It’s a shame, but it’s true,” replies Havers.

“Women do struggle even as early as their 40s. This country is much better than America, though. Look at Judi Dench – I mean, God! She just never stops!” He recounts a time when he co-starred alongside her in The Importance of Being Earnest at the National Theatre. “When was it, 1982? And she’s the naughtiest girl on stage of anyone I’ve ever come across.” As conversation turns to Christmas, Havers says he will be spending his day off in his South Kensington home rather than his country retreat in Wiltshire. “We’ll go for lunch at the The Beaumont hotel. We’re usually joined by Jeremy King and Chris Corbin. And my mother, who will be 90 next year, is coming to stay, as is my father-in-law. So, we’re going to have the oldies for lunch on Christmas Day.” Christmas Eve, however, is reserved for the younger family members: his daughter Kate (from his first marriage) and her two children will be coming to watch Dick Whittington. When the New Year’s celebrations are over, Havers will be prepping for the three-man comedy Art, which will tour the UK from February. As I probe what else Havers has lined up, he shrugs me off with: “I hate looking ahead. I just want to live in the moment.” We could all do with taking a page out of his script.

“I hate looking ahead. I just want to live in the moment”

From £22.50, 9 December – 14 January 2018, Dick Whittington at the London Palladium, W1F, dickwhittingtonpalladium.com

Acting up in the ’80s As Bob Jones in The Whistle Blower with Michael Caine

As Lord Andrew Lindsay in Chariots of Fire with Ben Cross

1981 26

As Dr Rawlins in Empire of the Sun As Ronny in A Passage to India with Judy Davis

1984

1986

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21/08/2017 13:35

The winners of the sixth edition of The Mayfair Awards, held on 27 November at the Royal Academy of Arts, will be published in the January issue of The Mayfair Magazine This year, we have partnered with the finest luxury brands to ensure this event is the best yet. We would like to offer a special thanks to all of those involved.

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CARS

The Ritz Club

T h e

r e a l

Mayfair is the pinnacle for Britainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top croupiers. Nick Savage delves into an exacting world of cards, coins and cheating to find out what keeps the industry turning

FEATURE

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

here’s a rich seam of gambling in British history. As a vice, Henry VIII’s love for it was nearly as all-consuming as his passion for marriage and divorce. After getting fed up with his army frittering away their time punting, he outlawed it – except for himself of course. From then on it became a pastime of the landed gentry, and, to this day, in some London circles such as private clubs, it retains a regal connotation. It wasn’t until the 17th century that it became an avenue for the middle class to approach power. Sir Thomas Neale served as groom porter to both Charles II and William III, and played the role of croupier to the kings, supervising all gambling in the royal residences. Along with his many other accomplishments, he was renowned for creating fair dice, cards and tables and managing disputes between players.

image credit: shutterstock.com

Since the Betting and Gaming Act came into effect in 1961, gambling has returned to the realm of the layman, yet it hasn’t lost its aspirational appeal in Mayfair. The Clermont Club was the first casino to be licensed and immediately attracted luminaries including Ian Fleming, Roger Moore, Peter Sellers and Princess Margaret. While Coral, Ladbrokes and Paddy Power populate almost every high street, W1 remains one of the world’s most interesting places to roll the dice. But what of the croupiers? Many feel that Mayfair is the ultimate destination for those working in the trade. Jamie Leigh Cummins works at the Park Lane Club and won the National Casino Forum’s UK Dealer of the Year award earlier this year, at the tender age of 27. At 18 he was studying mathematics with the intention of becoming a teacher, but was side-tracked when a friend suggested that he take a stab as a croupier at the Genting Casino. After a six-week training course, he was hooked.

The Ritz Club

“There’s a very different cross-section of people at the tables,” Cummins notes. “Outside London, most customers are local, whereas at London casinos they come from all over the world. The stakes are higher; there’s more action.” Matthew Hillier also joined the trade quite early on, working in a casino in Leicester Square before coming to an open day at The Ritz Club. He earned the position after a table test and interview, and has worked there for the past five years. “If you enjoy a bit of mental arithmetic and the social aspect, but don’t mind the unsociable hours, it’s not a bad job to be in,” he says. He echoes Cummins on the subject of London. “It’s definitely an international audience. At The Ritz Club we have a wealthier customer base than some other clubs, and our customers could be from the Middle East, China or anywhere else in the world.” However, being a croupier isn’t all fun and laughs. Dealing with high-pressure, big money games can take a toll on the body, so it’s important to stay fit. “When you have a really busy shift and you’re on your feet the whole time, you have to concentrate really hard to keep an eye on everything that’s going on,” Hillier continues.

FEATURE

Jamie leigh cummins; below: the park lane club

Cummins adds: “some days, it can be very quiet and you might get half a dozen breaks in an eighthour shift, but on other nights you might only get one break. I always try to stay relaxed because that means the customer relaxes too and enjoys the experience.” Keeping track of everything often requires the mind of a mathematician. As croupiers progress in the business and gain more responsibility, they often have to manage several different tables. Beyond that, the games can be mindbogglingly baroque. Hillier’s most difficult experience has been fielding multiple full-complete bets on roulette. “Adding up numerous bets all at different odds and in different denominations that can go into the hundreds of thousands or even millions can be quite challenging,” he describes. Films like Croupier, which launched Clive Owen’s career, portray a nefarious world in which casino staff must constantly be on guard against cheating. However, in real life, that doesn’t appear to be quite the case. State-of-the-art technology and perpetual 24-hour surveillance help safeguard against any late bets, and in the higher-end casinos there is often a supervisor at every table to observe the situation if the croupier’s attention is occupied elsewhere. Viv Ross, compliance manager at Caesars UK, notes that it does happen, but only from time to time. “Cheating is not a

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

widespread problem in casinos and only involves a tiny percentage of our customers.” There are three major types of cheating that take place. Push bets occur when a bet comes a fraction too late, mainly at the roulette table. “If a dealer thinks a push bet has been placed, they will refuse to pay out,” explains Ross. “The customer can dispute this, which will lead to further discussions, but 99 times out of 100 the customer will know they’re in the wrong and won’t dispute it.” When two players are working in tandem and both have mediocre hands, they sometimes swap cards. This can be monitored over CCTV – and if it’s a serious amount of money, the casino might go to the police and ask them to prosecute as it’s a criminal offence. Ross has been forced to do this on several occasions. Finally, edge sorting is when a player identifies a slightly different pattern on the back of the card, normally if the marking has not been printed exactly square and goes right to the edge. They then use the information to their advantage by persuading the dealer to rotate the cards in their favour. “A Mayfair casino recently won a long legal battle against a poker player after refusing to pay out £7.7m because he had been using this technique playing Punto Banco [a version of baccarat],” says Ross. Discretion is of paramount importance. This applies to well-known guests who visit or frequent the premises, none of whom Cummins or Hillier agree to name. But it also applies to the techniques employed to catch a thief. “There are lots of procedures in place to maintain the integrity of all our games but I can’t tell you everything, as it would rather defeat the purpose,” says Hillier. There is also a host of rules and regulations in place to maintain order. “We are not allowed to go into other casinos in the area so there’s no temptation to gossip with staff at other places,” says Cummins. “We keep everything within the club.” Sadly, the role of croupier isn’t quite as freewheeling as it was in the day of Sir Thomas Neale. Nick Savage is editor of Innerplace, London’s most personal lifestyle concierge. Membership provides complimentary access to the finest nightclubs, the best restaurants and top private members’ clubs. Innerplace also offers priority bookings, VIP invitations and insider updates on the latest openings, innerplace.co.uk

collection Winter wonders Add instant sparkle this holiday season with Chopard. The Swiss jeweller has launched a fresh interpretation of its Happy Diamonds collection, featuring floating white diamonds fashioned like falling snowflakes. From ÂŁ1,060, chopard.co.uk

Bracelet set, ÂŁ3,520; Happy Snowflake watch, POA

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COLLECTION

Cartier’s New Home Is there anything by Cartier that we don’t want under the tree this Christmas? Case in point, these one-of-a-kind platinum pieces, in festive red and gold. Head to the new Cartier Room at Harrods, opening on 5 December, to see these dazzling showstoppers for yourself. POA, harrods.com

Coming up

roses The perfect plus one this holiday season? A twinkling diamond by William & Son. The British jeweller has updated its timeless and romantic Beneath the Rose high jewellery collection, starring rose-cut sapphires in glistening white and hot pink. POA, williamandson.com

Velvet crush Worn by everyone from Gwyneth Paltrow to Cindy Crawford, Diane Kordas is renowned for fine jewellery with a rock ‘n’ roll edge. Elevate evening looks with plush velvet chokers, accented by a diamond centrepiece, and long drop earrings adorned with stars. Earrings from £1,495, chokers from £3,207, dianekordasjewellery.com

Loquet for luck

Bright spark Julien Riad Sahyoun transforms nature into tantalisingly fine jewellery, mingled with ethnic shapes inspired by his Moroccan heritage. The Just Radiant Sun collection offers a joyful dose of sunshine all winter long, set with pavé diamonds. From £8,200, jsay.com

Created by Sheherazade Goldsmith and Laura Bailey, Loquet London brings lockets and charms together in perfect unity. The jeweller has added pendants to its popular repertoire, including whimsical gem-studded stars, crescent moons and lucky four-leaf clovers. Loquets from £300, pendants from £650, loquetlondon.com

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giovanniraspini.com

5, South Molton Street - London LONDON MILAN ROME FLORENCE VENICE MONTE CARLO

ticking all the

boxes

Behind the scenes at Wempe’s New Bond Street store, with UK managing director Lynn Schroeder W o r d s : D av i d Tay l o r

Lynn Schroeder; all other images: wempe on new bond street

n 5 May 1878, 21-year-old certified watchmaker Gerhard Diedrich Wempe founded an eponymous company with the view of trading in pre-owned timepieces. With scant starting capital, the plucky German set up shop in his aunt’s house in Elsfleth, Lower Saxony, transforming his relative’s front room into what would become the area’s foremost jeweller – earning himself the moniker Gülden Gerd (Golden Gerd) in the process. Wempe’s business quickly expanded and, through re-investing profits into the opening of more stores, by 1914 he was the proprietor of five jewellers in Hamburg. On assuming control in 1921, Gerhard’s son Herbert began redesigning the boutiques into a uniform aesthetic, while expanding stock to include some of the biggest names in Swiss watchmaking. Having survived Germany’s severe pre-Second World War recession, the company fell into the control of grandson Hellmut in 1963. The next 40 years would see the family empire expand to include 29 branches across the world.

In 2013, Hellmut’s daughter, Kim-Eva, took the reins, successfully increasing turnover from €167 million to €441 million in less than a decade. Wempe’s London store, which opened in 1997, relocated from 135 New Bond Street to the larger 440 sq m premises a hop, skip and jump away at 43-44 in 2007, expanding internally by a further 220 sq m four years later.

collection

UK managing director, Lynn Schroeder, has worked in the London branch for 12 years, and puts Wempe’s success largely down to the acumen and the loyalty of her staff. “If you've been visiting Wempe over the past ten years, you will have kept returning to see the same faces,” she says. “That’s something you won’t find anywhere else. It plays a big role in terms of trust.” Since 2007, Wempe London has achieved year-on-year double-digit growth, reflecting the capital’s growing status as a destination for fine watches. “People in UK have become far more educated in watches,” says Schroeder. “They know a lot more when they walk into the store. Internationally, London is a world city, a business city, it’s increasingly important for our brand.” Not only does Wempe stock watches from Rolex, Patek Philippe, A. Lange & Söhne, Audemars Piguet and IWC, but, since 2005, has also manufactured its own timepieces in Germany’s watchmaking heartland, Glashütte. Looking forward, Schroeder hopes to safeguard the success of Wempe London through training junior sales assistants without the pressure of having to sell immediately to the public. Says Schroeder: “We can offer people the chance to learn everything in a practical way, so that they really go into depth in terms of products, materials and mechanisms without the pressure of selling to customers straight away. We’d rather our sales members really understand a product before they advise our clients.” With its staff of tomorrow already in the making, the future looks bright for Wempe. “We’ll always be delighted to serve you,” says Schroeder. “And we’ll take all the time in the world to do so.” Gülden Gerd would certainly approve. wempe.com

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Wempe Glashütte Established in 2005, Wempe watches are manufactured in the fabled watchmaking town of Glashütte. Here, state-of-the-art chronometer testing is carried out in the town’s reclaimed and refurbished observatory, the original site of Herbert Wempe’s groundbreaking collaboration with Otto Lange, grandson of F.A. Lange, the celebrated German philosopher and sociologist. Between them, Wempe and Lange founded a regulating institution for young watchmakers. Why, then, after almost 130 years, did Wempe decide to start making watches in-house? “Watch prices have been getting higher and higher,” explains Schroeder. “When Gerhard Diedrich Wempe established the business, there were only a few professions. You had the hairdresser, the doctor, the jeweller and so on. Mr Wempe wanted to be a jeweller for everyone. He thought that people should be able to enter a jewellers at 18 or 21 and be able to afford their first watch. Creating our own timepieces was a way of ensuring that they could.” Wempe Glashütte produces two series of timepieces, the Zeitmeister and the Chronometerwerke, available in all the company’s worldwide stores. wempe-glashuette.de

Zeitmeister Chronograph, £2,995

Chronometerwerke Automatic CW4, 18k gold, £13,150

The personal approach Casting aside conformity for the custom-built, George Bamford has spent the past decade putting the ‘you’ back in luxury. In the wake of an industry-first agreement with LVMH, the king of customisation has now created a watch of his own w o r d s : Rich a r d B r o w n

t was at a dinner party that George Bamford realised that his beloved black dial Daytona, given to him as an 18th birthday present – “yes, I’ll admit it, I was a brat back then” – was anything but unique. Crestfallen, but determined to pursue something truly singular, George created two blackened watches; a Rolex Plexiglass Submariner and a Rolex GMT – one for himself and one for his father, JCB billionaire Lord Anthony Bamford (his mother, should you have failed to connect the dots, is Lady Bamford, founder of the Daylesford Organic Farmshops). In 2004, his new timepiece strapped to his wrist, George embarked on a road trip around Italy. “I returned with orders for 25 more.” And lo, Bamford Watch Department was born. “We started by looking at companies that were doing a similar thing,” explains the 36-year-old from the Mayfair townhouse he’s subsequently converted into the world’s most well-resourced man den (it features a wall of vintage stop

Tag Heuer Autavia Chrono Zenith Type 20 Chrono ‘Ton Up’

Bamford Mayfair

COLLECTION

FROM TOP: Tag Heuer Autavia Chrono; Zenith Pilot Chrono Tipo Cp-2; Tag Heuer Monaco Heritage

clocks and bespoke sculptures by Natxo Frisuelos). “There were two businesses in particular that inspired me. The first was Bentley and Mulliner, the independent coachbuilder that made bespoke bodies during the 1930s and 40s. The second was Nike, and what it was doing on a personalisation front. I thought ‘why can’t you do that with watches?’” Bamford began blackening stainless steel models from the likes of Rolex, Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet and Panerai – not, it must be said, always with the blessing of the brands themselves. Coating watches in military-grade PVD (physical vapour deposition), BWD created cases and bezels that were virtually scratch-proof and diamond hard. “My mentality was always ‘how can I make this individual? How can I make it feel special?’” Bamford’s run at producing one-of-akind wrist candy for sports stars and his socialite chums continued until summer 2017, when the modification maverick announced he was changing tack. In June, BWD revealed an agreement with LVMH. Bamford had become the first customisation watch company to be officially authorised by a Swiss watchmaker. Rolex-Bamford watches are a thing no longer. Henceforth, the company will only be modifying watches belonging to the French luxury conglomerate. So far, LVMH-owned Zenith has let Bamford loose on its Pilot Type 20 and Heritage Cronometro Tipo CP-2, the Swiss watchmaker guaranteeing warranties even after timepieces have been customised. Similar deals have been struck with LVMH stablemates TAG Heuer and Bulgari. The former has allowed George to tinker with its Autavia, Carrera and Monaco models; while the latter’s Octo Velocissimo, Octo Solotempo, Serpenti and Scuba watches are all now available for personalisation. “The collaboration with LVMH is one of the most exciting and rewarding achievements we have accomplished as a business,” says Bamford. “To offer our take on these incredible timepieces from Zenith, TAG Heuer and Bulgari – I absolutely could not be happier.”

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I first met George several years ago. Back then we had talked about the revival of British watchmaking. He’d praised the protagonists of that story, in particular Bremont’s Giles and Nick English, and Giles Ellis at Schofield. I ventured that surely he must be harbouring ambitions of his own Bamford-branded watches? “I would never produce my own watch unless it was absolutely right,” he had said. “It would have to be the right price, sit within the right market and allow for personalisation. The mechanical movement is also very important. I would want to have something that’s different, something that will make you go ‘wow, you’ve combined that with that!’” Grand plans for a mechanical timepiece have been temporarily suspended. Before then we get the battery-powered Bamford Mayfair, a stainless-steel asymmetrical sports watch that evolved from a ‘service’ model that Bamford customers would be loaned whenever their timepiece went in for a check up. “Clients became besotted with this service watch,” says George. “When I’d wear one, people would keep trying to buy it off my wrist. Which made me think there was something there.” Choose between a 40mm matte black case with a matte ceramic bezel or a matte grey case with an anodised aluminium bezel. Straps come in rubber, nylon or leather. The Mayfair is water resistant to 10 metres, sports LumiNova indices and houses the ever-reliable Japanese Miyota 2035 movement. “Think of it as a holiday watch,” says George. “Throw it on; take it to the beach; go anywhere with it.” In the flesh, the Mayfair is handsome, well-weighted and reassuringly solid. George says that most of his clients already possess a Rolex or Patek Philippe. For the fun factor alone, expect a Mayfair to join those collections. Zenith x Bamford watches from £8,000, TAG Heuer x Bamford watches from £8,000, Bulgari x Bamford watches from £7,000, Bamford Mayfair, £425, bamfordwatchdepartment.com

COLLECTION

s eas o n’s gr e e tin gs £10, w hit e w ov e c ar d w it h engr av e d si lv e r mot if and ti ssu e - l i ne d envelo p e, sm yth son. c om

Objects of

Desire

Swap holly and gilded pine cones for an alternative festive wreath – with feathers £59.95, libertylondon.com

get cracking

merry

christmas

b e sp ok e ch oice o f g i f t s fr om £ 8 0 , w i l l i am an d s o n . co m

Year

c lockwise from top ch ristmas tree, £225, baccarat.com, image © Palast; ang el , £16.95, s kand ium.com; grisela graham reindeer, £10, selfridges.com; diary, €55, astierdevillatte.com; mistl etoe bauble, from £13.50, petershamnurseries.com

ste r l in g silv e r g i f t s £ 2 1 0 e ac h , aspre y. co m

A Happy d N n

from a Paul Smith ballpoint to a Turnbull & Asser silk handkerchief £ 5 0 0 for si x , for tnu m a n d m a s o n . co m

ondo on n . co. c o. u k s s l u x u ry llon

28241 Creed Viking_210x297_MayfairAd.indd 1

13/09/2017 09:51

ART

Double vision London Art Week Winter will take place for the first time this season, following the September edition that launched in 2013. The event is dedicated to pre-contemporary art, with talks and special exhibitions from dealers and galleries all within walking distance of each other â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from Stephen Ongpin in Masonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Yard up to Kallos Gallery on Davies Street. 1-8 December, londonartweek.co.uk

Alessandro Maganza, Two Allegorical Figures, 1556-1632, image courtesy of Stephen Ongpin Fine Art

ART

Prize lots Upcoming

E sti m at e: £70, 000 - £90, 000

Sold £1,929,000 E stimat e : £1,200,000 - £1,800,000

A fine and exquisite pair of ‘famille-rose’ ‘sanduo’ cups, Yongzheng marks and period “It is the combination of exquisite quality, provenance and rarity – no other comparable pair of cups is known – that makes these so appealing. The decoration was slightly unusual in that the ‘sanduo’ or three abundances motif usually combines the peach, pomegranate and finger citron. The inclusion of loquats, beautifully painted in soft yellow to blue tones, made them really rather different and special. The shape of the cups and their glaze is exquisite. It was like holding two jewels of 18th-century Imperial porcelain in the hand.” – Robert Bradlow, head of Chinese works of art at Sotheby’s London

Repainting, Jonathan Wateridge, 2011 London-based artist Jonathan Wateridge paints fabricated scenes of humdrum reality: an approach he has coined ‘fauxdocumentary’. For Repainting, Wateridge claims he “merely wanted a sense that [the couple’s] whole life, everything that they’re doing, is somehow in flux… If this had been a young couple in their twenties, perhaps the image would seem utopian, it could be aspirational, but this does something else”. New Now, 7 December, phillips.com E sti m at e: £14, 000 The 1781 Woodland, Asprey X Hand & Lock To celebrate its 250th anniversary, embroidery house Hand & Lock has collaborated with 13 designers on one-off, collectable handbags to be auctioned in December. Pieces include this blue crocodile version of Asprey’s 1781 handbag, decorated with goldwork oak leaves and acorns. Proceeds from the sale will be donated to the Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust for aspiring craftspeople and the Hand & Lock Prize for Embroidery. Hand & Lock charity handbag auction, 6 December, Drapers Hall, EC2N, handembroidery.com

sold: pair of ‘famille-rose’ ‘sanduo’ cups, Yongzheng marks and period, 8.7cm each, Important Chinese Art, 8 November, Sotheby’s London, image courtesy of Sotheby’s/sothebys.com upcoming, From TOP: Jonathan Wateridge, Repainting, 2011, oil on canvas, 282 x 400cm, image courtesy of Phillips/phillips.com; ASPREY, THE 1781 WOODLAND handbag in collaboration with Hand & Lock, blue seta crocodile

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

ART

force of inspiration

ART MEETS SCIENCE

shapes

throwing

in reaction to the Abstract Expressionism seen in the 1950s, a group of American artists brought a purist strand to abstract painting in the 1960s and 1970s. Among them was Sam Gilliam, who soaked canvases in paint and then folded them to spread the pigment. His work – from both then and now – will form a substantial part of Impulse!: an exhibition exploring colour and technique. Until December 22, Pace, 6 Burlington Gardens, W1S, pacegallery.com

miniature genius A last chance to find delightful, pint-sized sculptures of favourite figures including Dickens, Orwell and John Betjeman (pictured) at Sladmore Contemporary. Still Reading, until 4 December, 32 Bruton Place, W1J, sladmorecontemporary.com

Architectural and sculptural inspirations collide at Hauser & Wirth: think concrete and steel. Structural Exercises, 1 December – 10 February 2018, 23 Savile Row, W1S, hauserwirth.com

Scottish artist Suzi Morris has drawn a link between oil paint and virology in her highly detailed glazed resin paintings for The Viral Sublime, a brief solo show. Research took Morris into laboratories, and the paintings also borrow from her experience of treatment for a virus that affects her vision. An ethereal visualisation of science. 28 November – 17 December, Herrick Gallery, 93 Piccadilly, W1J, herrickgallery.com

An explosion of shapes and colour by British sculptor David Annesley. Oversized but underrated. Kurumidza, until 6 January, Waddington Custot, 11 Cork Street, W1S, waddingtoncustot.com

clockwise from top left: Sam Gilliam, Onion Skin, detail, 1975, private collection, ©ARS, NY and DACS, London 2017, photography: Damian Griffiths; Suzi Morris, Burden of the Dendrite, 2017; Suzi Morris, Waiting for CRISPR, 2017; David Annesley, Untitled, 1969; Monika Sosnowska, Fence, 2010, Installation view, Hauser & Wirth Somerset, 2017, ©Monika Sosnowska, courtesy of the artist and Hauser & Wirth, photography: Jamie Woodley; Sam Gilliam, FOLD V, 2014, ©ARS, NY and DACS, London 2017, courtesy of David Kordansky Gallery, Los Angeles, CA, photography: Lee Thompson; Martin Jennings, John Betjeman maquette, 2017, ©the artist, courtesy of Shapero Modern

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

CARDS AS UNIQUE AS EACH FLAKE OF SNOW

An open

book A set of seven books illustrated by Andy Warhol offers a whimsical look at his first decade as an artist in New York, writes Jack Watkins

ART

for his n w o ell kn the time- t w s i l k Warhoion to twea of the artis g intent red image ual pursuin honou ne individ ion as a locreative vis their

hen Andy Warhol was at the height of his celebrity in the late 20th century, a group of his friends could be forgiven for gazing rather smugly at a cluster of illustrated books he had given them back when he was still a rising talent in advertising art, and for feeling part of an exclusive group given an early insight into his creative mind. Between 1952 and 1960 Warhol published eight of these books, as well as creating manuscripts for many more that were never printed. Now, when the originals might change hands for thousands at auction, Taschen presents seven in portfolio format, replicating Warhol’s originals as closely as possible. Warhol is well known for his intention to tweak the time-honoured image of the artist as a lone individual pursuing their creative vision to one of the artist as a businessperson – and his gifting of these books to friends wasn’t quite as altruistic as it might at first seem. Warhol arrived in New York in 1949, aged 21. He had left his native Pittsburgh, where he had studied design at the Carnegie Institute of Technology, with no financial resources to fall back on. Needing to make his mark quickly, these promotional books were among a series of small handmade presents by which he sought to court new clients.

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Although the books were undated, there is evidence to suggest Warhol produced one every year in this early period of his New York career, with several recipients recalling how they received them as Christmas presents. The first published was Love Is A Pink Cake, most likely in 1952. It had 25 sheets of light blue paper illustrated with 11 pairs of famous lovers (including Antony and Cleopatra, Romeo and Juliet and Fatima and Bluebeard), each accompanied by individual words, couplets or poems. For all the books, Warhol based his drawings on pre-existing illustrations or photographs. Yet this book has the amateurish feel of a school project, with its somewhat clumsy drawings.

ART

After his second book A Is An Alphabet, which devoted a page to each letter, Warhol used animal motifs for the first time in 25 Cats Name[d] Sam and One Blue Pussy, which was also the first book in colour. Warhol had a pack of cats living in the New York apartment he shared with his mother, but for 25 Cats he took inspiration from specialist photographer Walter Chandoha. Although the snapshots were rather conventional, this suited Warhol who chose cats with static, isolated bodies and clearly defined silhouettes. Using garish colours to make them lively again, he made the drawings highly personal. Warhol lore has it that his mother Julia contributed the handwriting. In a surviving original copy, one cat was left uncoloured for the reader to finish, according to a note that advised: “do-it-yourself”. Julia may also have done the handwriting for À la Recherche du Shoe Perdu, a book that came out in 1955 after Warhol had found lucrative work designing a weekly shoe advert that appeared in The New York Times. The book also paid tribute to Warhol’s personal passion for collecting shoes. The images bring together footwear from different epochs, from the ‘Sunset and evening shoe’ recalling the 16th century, to a formal shoe with a bow, entitled ‘Alice B. Shoe’, suggesting the 19th century.

In The Bottom of My Garden was populated with pictures of pinkbuttocked, frolicking putti; while A Gold Book carried images of children, young men, flowers and fruit. It became one of Warhol’s most sought after self-promotional works as the one book in the series that was ostensibly intended as an art publication. The last in the series, Wild Raspberries, was by contrast a spoof cookbook, with illustrations looking like they had been painted by a family matron. The title was a play on Ingrid Bergman’s film Wild Strawberries: small insets of eccentric advice were inserted, such as “omelette Greta Garbo should only be served by dinner alone and by candlelight”. It was little known at the time that these books were originally produced beyond a select few. These subsequently much coveted pieces of the Warhol oeuvre are hand-drawn delights that offer a glimpse of the budding genius on the cusp of global fame. Andy Warhol: Seven Illustrated Books 1952-1959, £150, taschen.com

clockwise from top left: From À la Recherche du Shoe Perdu, 1955; From Wild Raspberries, 1959; Cover of 25 Cats Name Sam and one Blue Pussy, 1954, all ©2017 The Andy Warhol Foundation of Visual Arts, Inc.; Andy Warhol, Seven Illustrated Books 1952-1959, All images courtesy of TASCHEN

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A large and extremely important 1:96 scale builder’s model of R.M.S ‘Mauretania’, built in 1906 and 103 inches (262 cm) in length.

14 King Street St. James’s London SW1Y 6QU Tel: +44 (0) 20 7930 9595 gallery@pullmangallery.com www.pullmangallery.com Monday – Friday: 10.00 – 18.00 Saturdays in December: 11.00 – 17.00 Illustrated across the following pages is a small selection from our extensive inventory, available to view in the King Street gallery, and at our 6,000 square ft warehouse gallery (open by appointment). We look forward to welcoming you to the gallery soon.

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13/11/2017 13:31

Dunhill ‘Aquarium’ table lighter, c.1950

‘Normandie’ ice buckets by Christofle, c.1930

Modernist ski figures, c.1930

Crab caviar server, c.1970

Gold ‘Golf’ money clips by Cartier, Paris

Diver’s helmet desk clock, 1890

Long established in King Street, St.James’s, next to Christie’s, the Pullman Gallery specializes in 20th century objets de luxe and collectibles, including:

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Rare Alfa Romeo P2 toy, c.1932

Hardy Bros. shield sign, 1900

Art Deco piano by Strohmenger, 1938

• Vintage posters – motor racing, winter sports, flying, railway, travel and resorts • • Art Deco bronze sculpture • • Automotive Art and collectables • • Antique Louis Vuitton trunks • • Cocktail shakers and barware •

13/11/2017 13:31

Pullm

Novelty cocktail shakers, c.1930

Silver clock-cigar box by Gübelin, c.1930

Royal strongbox by Ratner Safe Co. c.1870

• René Lalique car mascots • • Dunhill lighters and cigar accessories • • WWII naval binoculars and instruments • • Rare tinplate toys, cars and aeroplanes • • Vintage pieces by Hermès, Cartier, Asprey and Tiffany •

13:31

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Giant metal Alfa Romeo sign, 1937

Unique, large Aston Martin DBR1 model

‘1967 Targa Florio’ by Dexter Brown

Giant Leica camera models, 1932-1954

Louis Vuitton cigar humidor, c.1950

Long range military binoculars, c.1940

14 King Street St. James’s London SW1Y 6QU Tel: +44 (0) 20 7930 9595 gallery@pullmangallery.com www.pullmangallery.com

Monday – Friday: 10.00 – 18.00 Saturdays in December: 11.00 – 17.00

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Bulgari for Dunhill silver cigar box, 1972

Crystal match striker by Asprey, 1912

Sir Winston Churchill bronze bust, 1972

‘Grand Prix de Nice’ poster, 1935

Maserati petrol-powered toy, c.1950

‘Medusa Moderne’ by Kéléty, c.1925 1955 Mille Miglia signed scarf, 1955

Sterling silver Rolls-Royce clock, 1927

Issue No.

zine of the

The Maga

Pullman Galler

‘1921 Italia GP’ by F.G Crosby, 1921

Our latest gallery magazine, PULLMAN has just been published and is available in the gallery, or to download from our website. In addition to our West End gallery, we have Pullman Studios, our vast private warehouse gallery near Chelsea Bridge (right), where our complete collection may be viewed by appointment. Please enquire at gallery@pullmangallery.com

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Pullm

Louis Vuitton leather cigar humidor, 1910

Original ‘FN Motorcycles’ poster, 1935

Mercedes-Benz ‘Streamliner’ bronze, 1955

Art Deco Jazz band by Cogneville, c.1930

Siebe Gorman diver lamp, c.1920

‘Alfa Romeo Tipo C’ by Walter Gotschke, 1936

Mercedes inkwell by Kayserzinn, 1908

‘Grosvenor House, Mayfair’ by L.Woollaston, 1940

‘Weather station’ by Hermès Paris, c.1930

14 King Street St. James’s London SW1Y 6QU Tel: +44 (0) 20 7930 9595 Pullman Studios, viewing by appointment only

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gallery@pullmangallery.com www.pullmangallery.com

Monday – Friday: 10.00 – 18.00 Saturdays in December: 11.00 – 17.00

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Signe dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;exception. Available exclusively in fine wine shops and in the best restaurants. champagne-billecart.com

Image credit: CH Carolina Herrera

Perfect presents It is an unwritten rule that in the run-up to Christmas, everyone is frantic about what to wear and what to buy. To make life easier, we plan on visiting Carolina Herrera first â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and hopefully last. Whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an evening gown, fragrance, cufflinks or even Christmas Day jumpers for the kids, no one will be disappointed when they see that monogrammed ribbon. 120 Mount Street, W1K, carolinaherrera.com

FASHION

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Our Limited Christmas Edition has landed

luxury shower gel and body lotion in Black Amber & Saffron

www.lilouetloic.com

FASHION

She’s the one Three’s a charm

B ur b e r ry DK 8 8 Top Hand l e C har m , £ 3 9 5 each, b u rb e r ry. co m

CÉ L IN E b r ass chain, £ 9 4 , a l phab e t pendant, £ 3 3 5 , c e l i ne . c om

©william helburn, LLC/courtesy peter fetterman gallery

She is the fourth book in Kate Spade’s New York series, which has so far included a compendium of things that inspire its creative team, plus modern-day guides to entertaining and travel. The final tome celebrates the “muses, visionaries and madcap heroines” who have helped shape popular culture and influence the brand – from Holly Golightly to Iris Apfel. She will serve as a reference for women from all walks of life. £30, katespade.co.uk

M u lb e rry b r ass f l ow e r k e y r in g , £ 1 9 5 , m ul b e r ry. co m

advent in the arcade Burlington Arcade is the gift that keeps on giving this season. In addition to Mulberry’s pop-up store and secret gin bar that opened on 23 November, Sophie Hulme will offer a personalisation service in its newly opened standalone boutique, which will be there for a limited time only. From £20, 64-65 Burlington Arcade, W1J, sophiehulme.com

Mooncler We’re quite certain that no other fashion house has ever been more suited to designing Moonboots as Moncler. The alpine specialist has created five styles, all named after planets. A match made in heaven. From £310, moncler.com

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feast your Eyes ’Tis the season

to indulge. Choose only the finest for yourself (and the table), then start stacking jewels with relish Photographer alexander beer S t y l i sT graham cruz at A+R Creative

Dress, £1,015, Emilio De La Morena, emiliodelamorena.com; necklace and bangle, POA, Harry Winston, harrywinston.com; earrings and ruby ring, POA, mosaic ring, £18,500, Boodles, boodles.com; citrine ring, £7,800, Stephen Webster, stephenwebster.com; emerald ring, £35,000, James Ganh, jamesganh.com; galaxy ring, £5,750, Spinelli Kilcollin, matchesfashion.com; black and white diamond ring, £28,700, De Grisogono, degrisogono.com; table and glassware from a selection at Harvey Nichols, harveynichols.com

THIS PAGE Dress, POA, Antonio Berardi, net-a-porter.com; headband with Swarovski crystal veil, £260, Piers Atkinson, piersatkinson.com; Illusion bracelet, POA, and Two-flower Palm ring, POA, David Morris, davidmorris.com; Raindrop bracelet, £40,000, and collar, POA, Boodles, as before; Perpetuity ring, £1,400, Dalseen, dalseenjewellery.com; Lady Stardust Crystal Haze ring, £9,000, pave Diamond and garnet ring, £11,500, and Brooch, £32,700, Stephen Webster, as before; earrings, £2,995, and choker, £8,500, Isabella Townsley, isabellatownsley.com; table and glassware from a selection at selfridges, seflridges.com OPPOSITE PAGE Tuxedo, £2,200, shirt, £540, and bow tie, £95, all Dior Homme, dior.com; table and glassware, as before

THIS PAGE Suit, £1,650, Joshua Kane, joshuakanestore.com; jumper, £180, Canali, canali.com; glasses, £160, Dsquared2, dsquared2.com; watch, £15,810, Chopard, chopard.com; table and glassware, as before OPPOSITE PAGE Jumpsuit, $1,695, Cushnie et Ochs, cushnieetochs.com; coat, £22,200, Philipp Plein, plein.com; earrings and watch, POA, David Morris, davidmorris.com; necklace and dragonfly diamond ring, POA, De Beers, debeers.co.uk; Sophie ring, £14,500, and Sophie bracelet, £39,500, Boodles, as before; Moonstone Cats Eye Ring, £4,885, Susan Foster, Harrods.com; sapphire Ring, £17,273, Fabergé, Harrods.com; Cluster Bracelet and ring, POA, Harry Winston, as before; Flora & Fauna ring, £10,000, James Ganh, as before; table and glassware, as before

THIS PAGE Visor, £360, Piers Atkinson, as before; dress, €3,950, Dolce & Gabbana, dolcegabbana.com; Earrings, £11,400, Stephen Webster, harrods.com; Five row necklace, POA, David Morris, as before; Long necklace, £52,000, Circus ring, £7,300, sweet pea cuff and emerald cocktail ring, POA, Boodles, as before; Marquise cuff, £10,500, Stephen Webster, as before; draperie diamond bracelet and secret cluster ring, POA, Harry Winston, as before; bracelet watch, £43,670, Patek Philippe, wempe.com; flora & fauna ring, £28,000, James Ganh, as before; table and glassware from a selection at Selfridges, selfridges.com OPPOSITE PAGE Jacket, £1,895, Shirt, £190, and Bow Tie, £95, Dunhill, dunhill.com; cufflinks, £4,000, De Beers, as before; watch, POA, Harry Winston, as before; table and glassware, as before

THIS PAGE Dress, POA, Vivienne Westwood Couture, viviennewestwood.com; earrings, £4,950, Spinelli Kilcollin, as before; necklace, POA, Chopard, as before; Rose gold bracelet, £69,900, and ring, £24,400, De Grisogono, as before; opal and diamond ring, £11,650, Dalseen, kabiri.co.uk; blossom ring, £8,600, Boodles, as before; flora & fauna ring, £11,000, James Ganh, as before; Mosaic bangle, £55,200, and circus ring, £7,300, Boodles, as before; link bracelet, £5,600, and ball dangle ring, £1,650, Tiffany, tiffany.co.uk; Celeste ring, £6,075, Spinelli Kilcollin, as before; table and glassware from a selection at liberty, libertylondon.com OPPOSITE PAGE Jacket, £1,495, shirt, £145, and bow tie, £45, Gieves & Hawkes, gievesandhawkes.com, table and glassware from a selection at liberty, as before

set designer Simon Godfrey Design MODELs Rachel Joy at Wilhelmina and Ben Desombre at Premier Model Management Photography ASSISTANTs Radi Konstantinov and Nick Rees HAIR Lewis Pallett at Eighteen Management MAKE-UP Jonas Oliver food provided by No 97 restaurant, no-97.co.uk

design and

architecture Dawn Alford takes a look inside fashion house Delpozo and examines the label’s craftsmanship

raditional, modern, organic, sumptuous and pure are words fashion editors use to describe Delpozo. There is also a more unusual adjective: architectural. And that should really not come as a surprise since creative director Josep Font originally trained as an architect. Since taking the reigns in 2012 he has showcased collections in Barcelona, Madrid, Tokyo and Paris. Most recently, he was invited to show his couture collections in Paris as a guest member by the renowned Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture. The fashion house embraces time-honoured couture techniques with a modern sensibility to create unique and feminine pieces for the contemporary woman. Jesús del Pozo founded the brand that would become Delpozo in Madrid in 1974. Under Jesús, the brand was celebrated for its creativity and commitment to craftsmanship. It was refreshed and relaunched in 2012 under Font’s creative vision. The hallmarks of the Delpozo atelier include a creative approach to volume, colour, and silhouette. Artisan techniques and intricate embroideries are used to create its ethereal and timeless aesthetic. The atelier celebrates what it describes as the essential relationship between thread and fabric, expressed in the art of fashion. Artisanship is key. The handmade embroidery is masterfully created with the most exquisite and avant-garde materials, using techniques from both haute couture and the respected Ecole Lesage of Paris. To protect the tradition of artistry in the fashion industry, Delpozo established a foundation to promote educational initiatives for young talent. The foundation will ensure that the artisan talent of fine embroidery and design will continue for many decades to come – and that the Delpozo house will remain at the forefront of stunning architectural fashion design. Indeed, taking design cues from its Spanish sister store, Delpozo’s shop on Sloane Street displays Font’s sculptural creations across its brass rails and within glass vitrines, like exquisite works of art. Delpozo, 134 Sloane Street, SW1X, 020 7881 0950, london@delpozo.co.uk

FASHION PROMOTION

Josep Font The creative director expands on his vision for the latest collection in his prêt-à-couture range

What kind of woman wears Delpozo? The Delpozo woman has no age, profession or nationality. I always think of a global woman, she dresses for herself. She has a mystery that makes her stand out unintentionally. It’s all about her attitude.

They are clearly works of art – but can some pieces be worn everyday? Absolutely. I create pieces, so our customers can adapt to their own wardrobes and mix with what they already have. I love to see how my clients show off their look on Instagram and just recently I saw a wonderful woman wearing our gold fil-coupé vest, which you would normally wear at an evening cocktail or even to the opera, but she mixed it with torn jeans and sneakers and I absolutely loved her look.

What has inspired the next season’s looks? Nature and water has inspired my new Resort range. I had discovered this magical ‘bubble gum pink’ lake in Australia and it reminded me of a neon green lake I’ve visited in Lanzarote, in the Spanish Canary Islands. So, I started looking for more interesting lakes around the world, and found the white calcareous ones in Turkey. Those three shades set the tone for the colour palette. I’m always inspired by two different ideas. On the one hand here were the lakes, and on the other, the work of American

dancer Loïe Fuller. She is considered an experimental artist and is best known probably for her “serpentine dance”, in which she filmed herself dancing and added colour to her flowy gowns. I wanted to lighten the collection with silks and light fabrics with a punch of colour inspired by the lakes. I also worked on new volumes and using undone bows as knots around skirts, pants and coats.

How do your international clients differ? We have customers in every part of the globe. Our London store includes British women of course but also Russian, Asian and Middle Eastern. That said, I feel that British women balance out the colourful quirkiness with an artsy touch. They are not afraid of volume, which I use a lot.

Tell us about the women in your life who have inspired you. The woman who has foremost inspired me was my mother. She was a very elegant woman and as she worked in fundraising, she had a lot of galas to attend. I would accompany her on her shopping trips for those events. From a young age, she always turned to me for my opinion. I guess she saw something in me. If I did not like a gown, she would not buy it. I remember one in particular: it was poppy red in silk, and it had a large bow on the neck. It was sleek and with a clean silhouette. She looked stunning.

D re s s to

impress Raishma’s bespoke bridal and occasionwear collections celebrate craftsmanship of the highest level. Now, the Eastern-inspired label’s couture-led designs have evolved into a ready-to-wear range of eveningwear, perfect for the party season

raftsmanship remains the luxury industry’s currency of choice. Artistry and skill hold sway in a sector that champions a sense of timelessness and classic style, regardless of trends. In contrast to the fast but fleeting high-street fashion landscape, couture houses and bespoke labels epitomise a certain flair and degree of finesse rarely found elsewhere. The devil is in the detail, to which Raishma Islam, founder of couture-led fashion label Raishma, is testament to. Her eponymous brand was founded in 1998 to celebrate imagination, individuality and skill by combining traditional Asian heritage with contemporary silhouettes and design. Islam worked as the assistant designer to Elizabeth Emanuel (who famously created Princess Diana’s wedding dress) before deciding to launch her own brand specialising in bespoke evening and occasionwear, as well as wedding attire handmade in India. Since then, her couture designs have revolved around beautiful fabrics, intricate beadwork and embroidery, and have graced the pages of Vogue. They have also proved a hit from the red carpet to the runway – and even among the Royal family (everyone from HRH Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie, to Hollywood royalty Goldie Hawn has worn Raishma creations). Today, Raishma’s couture designs and bridal collections have given way to a ready-to-wear diffusion line of more affordable, versatile pieces that demonstrate exquisite attention to detail: including beautifully-cut beaded tops, silk scarves and vibrant, embroidered kaftans; perfect for running the gamut

Raishma’s couture designs have given way to a ready-to-wear diffusion line

FASHION PROMOTION

of the party season and beyond. There’s also a resortwear range, Rai, that comprises flowing dresses, wrap jackets and silk separates in colourful prints. The ready-to-wear line has enabled the brand to flourish; it was recently awarded Retailer of the Year 2017 at the British Small Business Awards. Select pieces are now available at a number of UK stockists, including online at John Lewis and Little Black Dress; as well as at 12 Debenhams stores across the Middle East and Saudi Arabia, and Middle Eastern online retailer, Namshi. To fully showcase the expanded ready-to-wear and couture offerings, Raishma’s first boutique opened in Marylebone in spring 2017. The compact but elegant space is spread over two floors, decked out with marble, raindrop chandeliers and sketches of elegant gowns lining the walls. The first floor houses the ready-to-wear and resort collections of fashion and accessories. The bridal and couture collections await downstairs. Here, the rails are filled with ethereal, bohemianinspired, intricately embellished creations in tulle and lace, which sets the scene for bespoke, made-to-order bridal appointments. Islam and her specialist fitter Sharon Lakhanpal work closely with brides each year; together they have created more than 2,000 bespoke wedding dresses over the past decade. Capturing a sense of occasion is what the brand does best, and this is reflected in the retail experience itself. Regular invitationonly shopping events, for example, often have stylists and hair and make-up artists in attendance to offer guidance on how to put together a complete party look. Raishma favours a personal approach – one that you won’t find on the high street. True craftsmanship takes time, and its appreciation shouldn’t be rushed. Ready-to-wear collection from £125; bridal collection from £390; bridal couture from £4,000, 73 York Street, W1H, raishma.co.uk

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e v e n ts

por t r ai t s

jo h n @joh n n a s s a ri .c o . uk

w eddi ngs

w w w. j ohnnas s ar i .co.uk

FASHION

life’s rich tapestry Dynamic duo It has been a decade since Thom Widdett and Luke Sweeney set up shop on Weighhouse Street. Now they are celebrating the milestone with a Mr Porter capsule collection and new store in New York. From £120, thomsweeney.co.uk

IS THE AGE of athleisure and minimalism drawing to a close? Favourbrook’s relocation from Piccadilly Arcade to the prestigious Pall Mall suggests that it just might be. Number 17 is a one-stop shop for debonair gentlemen – stocking bow ties, waistcoats and tailoring all under one roof, plus a 1,000 sq ft fabric room on the lower ground floor. The décor in the Edward Lutyens building echoes the brand: a lavish and slightly eccentric mix of marble, bronze and wood. It’s time to stand out from the crowd again. 17 Pall Mall, SW1Y, favourbrook.com

In with the new New & Lingwood’s Jermyn Street store has been given a makeover. Pop in and peruse the improved footwear section, neon lighting and – of course – those fabulous prints. newandlingwood.com

evening Essentials Eau d e Parf um, £ 1 1 0 , Bent ley, harro ds.c om

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Sca r f, £ 7 9 , C h r i sti an La c r oi x x B r i an K e nny, c h r i sti an- l ac r oi x . c om

cuf f l in ks , £ 7 , 0 0 0 , de ak i nandfra n ci s . co . uk

SPECIAL EDITION 2017 HÄSTENS TRIBUTE Available for a limited time only

Hästens Tribute is a celebration of our 165 years of bed making expertise, a beautiful exercise in handcraft, quality and aesthetics. Clad in a fresh, modern Taupe Check, Tribute brings a timeless elegance into any bedroom. Its look can be enhanced effortlessly by styling with brights or more neutral tones.

£5,680 (£6,580)

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INTERIORS

Gold plated

If you need an excuse to peacock, the festive period is the time â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and Amaraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Midnight Jewel collection will certainly ruffle some feathers. The online homeware boutique has curated a Christmas range in plush amethyst and sapphire shades, featuring crockery from Wedgwood alongside glassware from the likes of Waterford and Moser. amara.com

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Showroom: 1 Western Avenue, London, W3 0BZ 020 8993 4415 info@thesofaandchair.co.uk www.thesofaandchair.co.uk

interiors

Baby, it’s cold

Outside

subtle finishes

Ginger spice Snap up this limited edition saffron and ginger candle – encased in silver hand-blown glass – while you still can. £50, lilouetloic.com

Christmas dECORATIONS don’t have to be over the top. Farrow & Ball has some helpful inspirations for incurable minimalists. The warm Wimborne White paint provides a blank canvas to make your tree – and select embellishments – truly stand out. Metallics will look radiant or snow-covered rather than gaudy... and the best part? The room will look fresher than ever when you take everything down in January. From £43.50, 64-65 Paddington Street, W1U, farrow-ball.com

p l ay th e h ost w ith th e m ost wi th th is art deco bar tr ol le y £ 2 9 5 , and r e w m ar ti n. c o.u k

extra padding Howe’s things Antiques expert Christopher Howe has partnered with The New Craftsmen to curate wintery curiosities including a decorative lichen nest and a moped mechanic’s chest. Until 23 December, thenewcraftsmen.com

Melody Rose’s eye-catching cushions will instantly jazz up your living room; some of the prints might raise a few eyebrows too. £85, melodyrose.co.uk

Scandi Society Get your hands on a unique piece of Nordic design, such as this delicate box by Evald Nielsen, at The Fine Art Society’s selling exhibition. Until 3 January, thefineartsociety.com

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Poker

dealer’s choice More than 1,000 pieces of sycamore, walnut, oak and birch make up this house for 500 clay chips. The box is edged in pheasant feathers, and closer inspection will reveal its limited edition number engraved on the skull’s hand-cut gold tooth. Limited edition of 15, £11,250, alexandralldesign.com

m mo n ro

Darts

oN POINT

Poker

By the rulebook Linley’s craftsmen have been creating boxes for more than 50 years. The shell of this one is made from American black walnut. Inside, black flocked material cushions 200 branded chips, a dealer button, three blind buttons and two decks of cards. The lid’s marquetry uses Bolivar, Anigre and Tay woods, all hand dyed and bleached. £1,400, davidlinley.com

These stylish mottled turkey feather and Pennsylvanian wood darts are crafted by hand in Brooklyn $132 for a set of three, fredericksandmae.com

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Backgammon

Opening rolls Good strategy is vital to winning a game of backgammon – but a set of checkers that are smooth to the touch are particularly comforting when a coup classique heads your way. Resin and solid brass counters both hold sleek allure, but these light and dark olive woods take the crown. Cased in olive burl from the tree’s root, the playing surface of this set is also inlayed with maple and walnut points. £225, conranshop.co.uk

interiors

Chess

pawn structure Zaha Hadid designed the Field of Towers chess set in 2014: a polished black, silver or red resin representation of her architectural practice’s study of towers (the pawns almost resemble her design for the Central Bank of Iraq). The bottom of the board slides out to double as storage. Limited edition of 200, from £9,999, zaha-hadid-design.com

turning the scales Chic diversions for when time is precious

Compendium

Gaming paradise In its Florentine workshop, strongbox specialist Agresti uses Italian materials to build its smart compendiums. Backgammon, dominoes, playing cards, dice, 170 poker chips and a mahogany and maple chess set lie within the Notte di giochi (right), while a mahogany roulette wheel, 345 poker chips, chess and backgammon sets, dice, leather cups, dominoes and playing cards are hidden in the Casinò passion (left). Made from maple briar wood, the latter weighs in at a hefty 32.5kg. Both POA, agresti.com

£759, Gallotti & Radice, harrods.com

Chess

Power play

£85, dior.com

This hand-painted chessboard features an optical illusion with purpose. “The title – Endgame – is as much a question as an answer about the limitations of power,” says its creator, artist Caio Locke. £4,995, purlinglondon.co.uk

£450, smythson.com

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bright spark

i go

the dazzling lights holiday beauty collection from Yves Saint Laurent Beauté takes fireworks as its theme. Twinkling explosions are engraved on the casing of the limited edition Touche Éclat – a stellar stocking filler for fans of the cult highlighter – and even on the Rouge Pur Couture lipstick itself. Finish the look with a festive manicure in classic red and gold shades. From £19.50, yslbeauty.co.uk

the power of perfumery

ng for gol d

Psychedelic Love is the latest addition to Initio Parfum’s Carnal Blends collection. Notes of rose and bergamot are paired with hedione – an ingredient science suggests can activate the brain’s pleasure centre. £190 for 90ml, harrods.com

role play

1. Meteorites Gold light powder pearls, £44, guerlain, harrods.com 2. EYE FOIL IN BLONDE GOLD, £28, Victoria beckham x ESTÉE lauder, esteelauder.co.uk 3. Falling in Leaves Eau de Parfum, £300 for 100ml, atkinsons, exclusive to harrods, harrods.com 4. gold dust hair powder, £55, david mallett, net-a-porter.com 5. N°5 FRAGMENTS D’OR body gel, £70, chanel, chanel.com

St Giles launches its first five characterful scents this month. To feel inspired, try The Writer with memoryboosting rosemary, or to make a glamorous entrance, opt for The Actress, with a powerful oriental lily note at its centre. £130 for 100ml, exclusive to Selfridges, selfridges.com

health & beauty

salon R E VIE W

THE MANE EVENT Lauren Romano treats her tresses to some TLC with a visit to Sassoon’s South Molton Street salon

arty season is almost upon us – a time when convention decrees we must temporarily drag ourselves out of hibernation and be sociable, no matter how much we’d prefer to stay in and binge-watch Stranger Things. But looking presentable at any given moment is a chore, especially if, like me, your hair doesn’t play ball. With a work event later in the evening, I decide to see if I can get more suitably swooshworthy locks during my lunchbreak, with a visit to the Mayfair branch of Sassoon. In general, hairdressers and I don’t have the best track record. No matter how many different inspiration ideas torn from magazines I come armed with; or how many products the stylists use; or how vigorously my hair is curled, it always ends up looking exactly the same and returns to its default poker-straight, slightly limp mode within half an hour of leaving the chair. Creative stylist Nicole listens patiently to my hair gripes. Having established that I struggle to dry my

IMAGES COURTESY OF SASSOON

own hair, let alone style it – my technical ability extends to tying it back into a ponytail – she suggests I admit defeat and go for a simple, one length look with a blunt fringe to make things more interesting. For an instant boost, she also recommends one of the salon’s new intensive treatments. Whether you want a replenishing dose of moisture or longer lasting colour – there’s a formula to match. It’s shine I’m after – and as time is also of the essence, I opt for the express shine treatment. After a relaxing head massage, a thick mask is applied to the ends of my hair before the deeply hydrating formula is left to work its magic under a heater for five minutes. The results are almost immediate; as soon as it is washed off, my hair feels noticeably softer and Nicole’s comb glides through it as she sets to work meticulously snipping away. Once my new do has been blow-dried, it looks shinier still. What’s more, not only does it continue to stay silky smooth and in place all evening, but it still has that just-done look the next morning too. With hair this great, Netflix can wait... Express shine treatment, £15, 60 South Molton Street, WIK, sassoon-salon.com

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Deck the

halls

m e at f e a s t How to prep a festive roast

Dining in

The first phase of Harrods’ reimagined food emporium has opened with the Roastery and Bake Hall. Chefs are on hand to sculpt pastries and breads galore, while expert roasters prep and grind beans for the most decadent cups of coffee. Hampers, teas, condiments, herbs and spices will make this a hive of activity for the hungry hordes of shoppers stocking larders for the holiday. harrods.com

images ©Stefan lubomirski de vaux 2017

Order fresh, organic produce online, like this free-range goose, which has been hung for two weeks and comes all the way from the North York Moors. £130, farmison.com

Oodles of noodles

Breakfast at Isabel’s

Dining out

London’s food scene loves a fusion of cultures, but nothing has quite tickled our fancy as much as Anzu’s Japanese mentaiko ‘carbonara’ (bottom right). Thin noodles topped with pollock roe make a fishy interpretation of the Italian favourite. For more traditional options, there’s tempura, gyoza dumplings and udon pots aplenty. If you still haven’t ventured over to St James’s Market, then why not start here. 1 Norris Street, SW1Y, anzulondon.com

How do you like your eggs in the morning? At Isabel they’re served on arepas (South American cornflour pancakes), which come with toppings of avocado, almonds and cayenne. This new winter menu is served alongside a counter of bread, pastries, fruit and smoothies. 26 Albemarle Street, W1S, isabelw1.london

Forget the fuss and sign up to The Punchbowl’s Christmas party menu with turkey as the bird of choice. From £42.50 per person, 41 Farm Street, W1J, punchbowllondon.com

food & drink

R estau r a n t R e vie w

TAKA WORDS: CAMILLA APCAR

hile St James’s Market gains more and more accolades, a new addition to Shepherd Market is a little more humble. Smart Japanese restaurant Taka has an unsightly neighbour or two, and is so dark inside that on a winter evening you might well miss it entirely. Having managed to locate the door, stepping in is like entering a corridor that is neither very long nor very wide. To the right, tables are laid in two rows, with some cafeteria bar-style seats for lone diners at the back. Straight in front of the doorway, a staircase leads down only to toilets and the bar (a compact set-up where it is surprising that the bartender has space to create drinks such as a Charcoal Fizz, a jet black concoction involving peach juice). Everything is in dark wood, with burnished gold accents for good measure. After a prolonged wait, the welcome is warm and immediately accompanied by the offer of a glass of sake. I opt for Tedorigawa Iki na Onna (meaning lady luck), which was bottled to celebrate female sake shopkeepers. The portion is both a generous and tasty start to a chilly evening.

A small lidded pot of miso soup with fresh tofu, spring onion and seaweed, alongside a dish of steamed edamame beans with sea salt are an ideal pairing for a starter. But sushi is what Taka serves best. Hamachi and unagi nigiri each come with generous slices of the white fish and eel; wagyu gunkan is a bizarre yet enjoyable combination of beef, sushi and seaweed textures that would otherwise never be put together. There are also two special rolls that are presented with flair and go well in combination with some simple, smaller tuna or salmon maki versions. The eponymous Taka is served with thin slices of avocado draped over the top and grilled white fish inside, while soft shell crab rolls pack in the works: tobiko (flying fish roe), an unagi glaze, spicy mayo, and some surprisingly crunchy mustard greens. Large dishes, like miso-marinated black cod or Chilean seabass arrive carefully wrapped in houba leaves (Japanese magnolia, which resembles something between a chargrilled banana and oak leaf). However these dishes are less polished, and elsewhere on the exhaustive menu are tempura, robata and kushiyaki barbeque sticks. The bottom line: three skewered bites of grilled salmon with teriyaki sauce and cress make for more mouth-watering fare than a larger chunk of seasoned fish. For dessert, a selection of small mochi rice cakes filled with various ice creams. I regret trying the green tea flavour, but the coconut and vanilla – and even the adventurous yuzu – make up for my misstep. Like the restaurant itself, the groundwork is in place but there’s room for improvement yet. 18 Shepherd Market, W1J, takalondon.com

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Pick of the BUNCH

To celebrate 200 years of fine champagne, Billecart-Salmon has released three special cuvĂŠes

Promotion

hrough northern France and into Épernay, the selfproclaimed capital of the Champagne region, the vineyards of the historical estate of Billecart-Salmon are overseen by the sixth generation brothers François and Antoine Roland-Billecart, supported by their father Jean. Since it was founded in 1818, when Nicolas François Billecart married Elisabeth Salmon, Billecart-Salmon has endured the test of time. The regulations set out by the region, bouts of bad weather and, most importantly, modernisation have not stopped the house in its quest for quality and excellence. The estate’s selection of pinot noir and chardonnay grapes have produced award-winning vintages. Yet, the brand is selective about whom it distributes to, with the champagnes being found in five-star hotels, such as The Ritz and The Connaught, as well as high-end retailers like Hedonism Wines. Next year marks the 200th anniversary of the house and there are numerous discreet celebrations planned, typical of the Billecart-Salmon style. To mark the festivities, Billecart-Salmon has created an updated logo and contemporary colour-coded packaging for a new trio of cuvées, which hint at the house’s rich history. The Cuvée Louis takes its name from Louis Salmon, brother of Elisabeth, who helped establish the estate with her husband. This Blanc de Blancs 2006 blends grapes from three areas in the Côte des Blancs: Cramant-Chouilly for its finesse, Avize for its power and Le Mesnil-sur-Oger for its structure and longevity. The result is a chardonnay with a creamy texture and superb minerality, full with citrus flavours and hints of white flowers, perfect for a seafood risotto or white meat dish. The Cuvée Nicolas François 2006 provides a generous and rich blend of chardonnay and pinot noir. Honeyed notes of plums and cherries and flavours of peaches and apples make for a perfect pairing with chicken or fish. The final element of the collection is the Vintage 2007, a blend of chardonnay and pinot noir. Orchard fruits, nuts and citrus fruits abound to finish the three dynamic vintages – a selection to make Nicolas François Billecart and Elisabeth Salmon proud.

billecart-salmon.fr

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Billecart-Salmon’s selection of pinot noir and chardonnay has produced awardwinning vintages

clockwise from top: chai en longueur, PHOTOGRAPHY: Fréderic Ducout; Cuvée Nicolas François Brut 2006; Cuvée Louis Brut Blanc de Blancs 2006; ALL OTHER IMAGES: THE BILLECARTSALMON ESTATE, PHOTOGRAPHY: Leif Carlson

Christmas c h e e r

The familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s coming for Christmas. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to get the drinks in, writes Chris Allsop

FOOD & DRINK

he stars have aligned: it’s your place for Christmas this year and it’s the full set (even the Americans). Deep breath. Your wallpaper is facing off with the youngest grandchild and her crayons. Your youngest’s whippet has been given the rights of a full human being, regardless of house rules. Your octogenarian father-in-law’s boundless capacity for the re-telling of old stories: his, and, on occasion, your own told back to you… Success – and survival – is a matter of chemistry. The drinks are key. And everyone’s tired, so punching up the percentages is vital to ensure the proper Christmas spirit. Your father taught you well. He’s the easiest – a Scottish single malt devotee who prefers something peaty to marinate in of an evening. He travels with a bottle of Lagavulin 16 (not something we’re to worry about, Mum claims), but some saline, smoky Sanaig from Kilchoman, Islay’s newest distillery, might jerk him from his one-note complacency. Or throw up a different kind of challenger: maybe a sipping rum like the 15-year-old El Dorado, which is essentially Christmas cake in a glass. But that’s for afters. Think aperitif. It’ll need to be fresh and light, an invigorating up-note, a jolly hurrah to get proceedings off on the right foot. A gin and tonic is the safe bet – anything seen as too trendy or continental might rouse the older generation into bringing up Brexit… …which your American cousin undoubtedly will. He’s into his artisan gins almost as much as he likes to stoke debate, so distract him with a G&T mixed with local Sipsmith, or maybe something more obscure to occupy him, like Portobello Road Gin No.171 with its festive hints of nutmeg. He’ll have too much, then we can bring up Trump. Best defence is offence, as he likes to say during Monopoly. Or maybe not a G&T at all. Your 40-year-old sister is debuting the latest in a string of whirlwind fiancés, this time an accountant from Seville she picked up while hiking the Camino (a sprained ankle was feigned, apparently). A rich sweet vermouth with some orange zest added will make him feel at home, so have a bottle of porty, spicy Carpano Antica Formula on hand. Yes, Carpano’s an Italian brand, but, come on, she and the Spaniard haven’t even passed the four-month mark yet… Of course, any sign of vermouth around the sister will put her in mind for a negroni, her car-crash cocktail of choice for the last umpteen years. Delay the inevitable prickly defensiveness at not entirely innocent questions – “what are you implying, mother? I simply stare into Hernando’s eyes and we converse in the universal language of love” – by trying to replace the gin with soda water and serving her up a more appropriate Americano instead.

The drinks are key. And everyone’s tired, so punching up the percentages is vital to ensure the proper Christmas spirit

FOOD & DRINK

If that doesn’t work, you’ll need to use peer pressure. A batch of eggnog. Why not? Sounds awful, tastes worse; but it’s hearty and traditional. You’d prefer a punch bowl, but probably best keep it more filling and less appealing – you wouldn’t want a repeat of the Christmas of 2009, especially when you’re hosting. The eggnog is perfect for the traditionalists, almost an irresistible annual dare for those who already know they prefer to drink it over anything else, and, if the addition of cognac (more delicious than brandy) is kept to a low level, one for the older children as well. A late evening eggnog could be made as per the extravagant Martha Stewart recipe, with Mount Gay rum and Maker’s Mark bourbon added to round off the evening with a bang of drunken dysfunction. And so to mothers. Your jolly hockey sticks mother-inlaw remains easy and reliable: a light sweetish wine with everything. Any drinks with too much body and she overheats and must lie down. The turkey, however, prefers a full-bodied oaked white, like a white Burgundy or a Californian Chardonnay, which is why she always ends up with a whole bottle to herself and becomes, in her words, ‘tipsy’, or in yours, ‘insufferable’. Instead, you could experiment with an orange wine for the table this year. Choose something light enough for the mother-in-law, like the Slobodne Oranzista 2015. And surprise your non-wine drinking brother with some sour Modus Operandi from The Wild Beer Co, powerful enough to hold its own amid the baroque sensory-scape of your Christmas spread. Your own mother, on the other hand, is less simple. Something of an alcoholic dilettante – the opposite of father – she flits between recent recommendations regardless of past experiences. Her new best friend, the former Las Vegas showgirl that initially scandalised her on the latest cruise with her ‘clingy dresses’, put her onto cocktails featuring St-Germain elderflower liqueur. Simple enough to mix with champagne, and voilà you’ve a suitably refreshing festive cocktail. In fact, that’s not such a bad idea for yourself. Bubbly, but not too strong. And for the digestif, well, Dad will be on the Lagavulin, but everyone else might like a snifter of Christmas pudding-infused vodka. Not too much faff. Made in advance it’s perfect, before we move onto a game of who falls asleep first in front of the fire…

A batch of eggnog. Why not? Sounds awful, tastes worse, but it’s hearty and traditional

Raise a glass Keep the drinks trolley well stocked this festive season

K il ch om an S an aig, £ 5 5 . 2 0 , k i l c h om andi sti l l e ry. c om

m a ke r ’s m ar k , £ 3 0, wai tr ose . c om

E l D or a do 15-y e a r - o l d sp e cial r e se r v e , £ 5 0 . 9 5 , th e w h i sk ye x c h an g e . co m

Portob e l l o R oa d G in N o.171, £ 2 5 , por to b e l l or oadgi n. c om

S l ob o d n e O r an z ista , £26.95, VAGA B ONDWINES .CO . U K

C ar pan o A n tica F or mu l a, £ 1 4 , oc ado. c om

MO U NT GAY BLAC K BARRE L R UM , £ 2 9 . 9 9 , wai tr ose . c om

M o dus O p e r an d i, £ 4 for 3 3 0 m l , w i l db e e r c o. c om

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For a yuletide full of feasting, Camilla Apcar cherry-picks this seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most indulgent hampers

two oasts, Thirteen fine t

foies

f go 25 1 and gras

Harrodian Hamper, ÂŁ2,500, Harrods all wrapped up: O rg ani c Zam b i an h o ne y, Se v i l l e o r ange and Sco t t ish w hi sky marm al ade , W i nte r s pi c e c ho c o l ate al mo nd s ha rrods.c om

â&#x20AC;&#x201C;a iar v ca

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food & drink more than six kilog se, with ram chee so g i fh b e ard Th ,s o ieties d var age elldw an ft

3 Christmas Pantry Hamper, £185, Selfridges al l w r ap p e d u p : A ssor te d m i n i m i n c e p i e s , Tr adi t i onal pa n etto n e , W h it e ch o c o l ate a n d p i stac h i o b i s c ui t s se l fr i dge s. co m

The Ultimate Paxton’s Collection, £1,000, Paxton & Whitfield a l l wrapped up: Ba ked fig b all, C hedda r T ru ck l e , Pe ar an d van i lla confit for ha rd cheese pax ton andwhit field.c o.uk

4 The Crowd Pleaser, £300, Harvey Nichols al l w r ap p e d up : G r a p e fr u i t and gi nge r m ar m al ade , G i a n t c h oc ol at e coi n, G r e e n ol i v e s w it h l e m on and al mo n d h ar v e yni c h ol s. c om

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Mayfair Hamper, £895, Claridge’s

al l w r a p p e d u p : S e t of f o ur m ug s , Age d N eg r o n i , C la r i dg e ’ s b l e n d t ea c l ar i dg e s . co . uk

The Big Day Hamper, £495, Daylesford all wrapped up: Almo nd ric c i a r e l l i , Day lesford sloe gin, S ingle Glo u c e ste r day lesford.c om

Get celebrations underwa yw ith a

al l w r ap p e d up : Al l b u tte r sh or tb r e a d, S i lv e r - plate d te a str a i ne r , C ogn a c c h oc olate tr u ffl e s th e w ol se l e y. c om

s (not the edible kind racker ) nd c sa ne wi of

io The Wolseley Christmas Hamper, £350, The Wolseley

food & drink

The Imperial Hamper, £6,000, Fortnum & Mason all wrapped up: Ch ocolat e coat ed cinna mo n spi ce bis cuit s, Hot banana pic k l e, Four- p erso n canvas p icnic ru cksa ck for t numa ndmason.c om

et to

las tw ats ell tre int y t o2 u 018 bea , com m’s u n t plete r with chef’s hat and Fo

Christmas Extravagance Hamper, £500, Betty’s b e ttys. c o. u k

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al l w r ap p e d up : C h e r ry and al m ond f r u i t c ak e i n a ti n, C h oc ol ate de si r e s, L ady B e tty pe ppe r m i nt cr e am s

FOOD & DRINK

O F

SPIRITS

t h e

s e a s o n

Whether you’ve been naughty or nice, we know you deserve at least one of these in your stocking

wa rm the cock les A TAS TE OF c ampfir e emb ers a nd toaste d ma r sh ma llo ws. Big Peat at Christmas 2017, £53.95, thewhiskyexchange.com

BERRY CHRISTMAS YO UR c hoic e of CHEESeB OA RD STAR T S and e nd s H E RE. Château Cheval Blanc 2012, £430, clos19.com

w e th r e e k in gs i nf use d w it h m yr r h a nd f r a nk i nc e nse fo r every lo ng j o u r ney. Edinburgh Gin Christmas Edition, £36.17, thewhiskyexchange.com

p op star sta r t c el e b rat i ng w it h t h i s 1 6 - year s m atu r ed c ha m pa gn e. Dom Pérignon P2 Vintage 2000, £290, clos19.com

age of excellence a h ea d y m i x of d r i ed f r u it, h a ze l n uts, c i nn a m on an d w oo d y to ba cc o . Re m y M a r t i n XO, £ 1 3 4 , thewhiskyexchange.com

SWEET TOOTH a fu n A LTERNAT IV E to mull ed win e. Hig h gr ov e ’s Ch r istmas Pudding Win e , £10.50, Highgrovegardens.com

GOOD CHEER YO U CA N’T GO WR ONG WI TH A COLOMBI AN RUM T H AT ’S BEEN MATUR ED FO R 34 y ea rS. Dicta dor 34YO (1981), £176, hedo nism.co.uk

a w e e d r am notes of car a me l , va ni l la and f u dge ALL TH E WAY F R OM B ONNI E SC OT LAND . E de n M i l l O ak G i n, £ 3 0 , e de nm i l l .c om

FESTI V E FAV O U RITE ADD TO A FRUITY RED FOR THE most impressive glühwein. C h r i stm as Mu l l e d C u p, £ 2 7 . 9 5 , m aste r ofm alt.c om

wing it i n f u sed w i t h cl oves, c i nn a m o n an d A TO UCH O F n ut m e g . Tw o B i r d s Ch r i s t m a s Sp iced VODKA , £ 3 7 , twobirdsspirits.co.uk

Roya l compani on Or ig in a lly m a de fo r k in g E dwar d V II in 1903 by b er ry Br os. & Ru dd. Th e King’s Ginger, £22.50, bb r .c om

Fin e VINTAG E Candied fruits, flowers, spice and all things nice. Louis XIII C o gnac, £2,300, ha rrods. com

b ig f ish a champagne of caviar extract and the finest chardonnay grapes. L u v i e nz, £ 8 8 0 , l u v i e nz.com

z e st is be st a pply to t h e r i ght k i nd of toast. S i r N i ge l’ s O r ange M ar m al ade V odk a, £ 2 5 . 5 0 , fortnumandmason.com

tall order only 299 of these Patrón TEQUILAS are BOTTLED BY LALIQUE. Patrón en Lalique: Serie 2, $7,500, reservebar.com

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PROMOTION

T h at ’ s t h e

tonic Discover how The London Essence Company’s four botanical mixers – from grapefruit and rosemary to orange and elderflower – can spice up your spirits

hat tonic water should be a bland, flavourless means to an end for your spirit of choice is a myth. The London Essence Company was founded in 1896 and produced concentrates used in perfumes, sweets and kirsch. Another 120 years later, its distillation practices were revived by WiseHead Productions to create four mixers that each capture a different botanical flavour. The quartet includes the Classic London tonic water, which balances sweet citrus with bitter quinine and juniper berries that have been steeped for up to a week before being distilled: just the ticket for a classic vodka or gin over ice. More aromatic and fruity is the Grapefruit and Rosemary tonic, ideal in an elderflower cordial and Campari spritz. Each drink has fewer than four grams of sugar per 100ml, and an added hint of sweetness courtesy of the stevia plant. “At last we have a range of elegant and exquisitely balanced mixers to work with,” says bartender Nick

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Strangeway, who worked with The London Essence Company on its pairings. For the adventurous type, Strangeway suggests matching the Bitter Orange and Elderflower tonic with a tequila highball, garnished with chocolate salt and a sprig of mint. Or the Delicate London Ginger Ale tonic for a whisky ginger on the rocks with lime – steeped in ginger root with aniseed and honey. “Premium spirits offer beautiful and extremely complex flavour profiles and by working with industry experts our mixers enhance them,” says Ounal Bailey, co-founder of WiseHead Productions. “We are incredibly proud to have created the first skilfully distilled, naturally all-light mixer collection.” Today The London Essence Company creates its low sugar drinks by coupling modern technology with the company’s distilling expertise: a swan-neck copper column distillation process is used for the rosemary, fennel and aniseed; while a more traditional method harnesses the flavour from botanical oils. Sometimes, looking to the future also means looking to the past. Available at Fortnum & Mason, Harvey Nichols and other specialist retailers, londonessenceco.com

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TRAVEL

creature

comfort

two nights, two years

glenapp castle Bring in the new year at the lavish Ayrshire hotel, singing Auld Lang Syne to the sound of bagpipes after a six-course Hogmanay banquet. From £2,250, glenappcastle.com

The newly improved seven-suite Sabi Sabi Selati camp in South Africa emanates 19th-century elegance, recalling a time when steam trains once ferried gold through the region. Each suite has its own living area, bed shrouded with mosquito nets and private outdoor hideaway. Today, visitors can experience big game open-vehicle safaris by both day and night. From £660, sabisabi.com

The Lanesborough Get merry at a New Year’s Eve house party with festive cocktails, spa treatments and a delicious fivecourse champagne dinner at the Michelin-star Céleste restaurant. From £1,470, oetkercollection.com

BE LE GUEST Uniting the 18th-century art of table setting with refined French gastronomy, Le Bristol Paris and Christofle have partnered to deliver an exclusive experience in a junior suite, including dinner for two at Michelin-starred brasserie 114 Faubourg, a private table setting workshop at Christofle and a gift from the silversmith. From around £983, lebristolparis.com

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lucknam park Head to the Cotswolds countryside to indulge in afternoon tea, a black tie gala dinner and New Year’s Day feast served by Michelin-starred chef Hywel Jones. From £875, lucknampark.co.uk

S u i t e d rea m s

The Dorchester Words: Marianne Dick

he Dorchester is having a moment. Not only has Alain Ducasse just celebrated ten years and three Michelin stars at this Park Lane palace, but the hotel has just finished its five-year suite renovation project by Alexandra Champalimaud – the New York-based design studio responsible for jazzing up The Stafford in St James’s and the Waldorf Astoria in New York. Some of The Dorchester suites, notably the Park suites and penthouses, have been modernised quite dramatically. Others such as the Mayfair and Belgravia suites – a nod to the hotel’s proximity to these West End locations – exude a traditional glamour befitting the rest of the building’s Art Deco style. My guest and I stay in one of the Belgravia suites. The bedroom has a palette of soft, shimmering pinks and golds; while the living room is a spectrum of blues and finished with pieces of dark, Eastern-style furnishings. Both the bathroom and shower rooms are lined with light Italian Carrara marble. The views over Hyde Park and the city are spectacular: we are lucky to have chosen a bright, crisp and clear autumn day to check in. Just ten minutes after we begin to settle in, our two royal householdstandard butlers introduce themselves and present us with one of the hotel’s signature cocktails – Her Majesty’s Cup. Created for the Queen on her Diamond Jubilee, this special blend contains Earl Grey-infused berries, rhubarb, Hendrick’s gin and champagne. It is poured from a floral china teapot into cups perched peculiarly on stems, like champagne coupes.

TRAVEL

Our butlers are on hand throughout our stay as part of the newly launched Essence of Belgravia experience, which also includes a private tour of the workshop of Belgravia-based chandler Rachel Vosper, followed by a masterclass in candle-making. We manage to fit in a visit to the aromatic steam room and relaxation room in the basement spa for some downtime before dinner at The Grill. The restaurant was opened when the hotel was established in 1931, and the dramatic décor – rejuvenated by Bruno Moinard in 2014 – reflects this period, as well as many of its theatrical guests including Elizabeth Taylor, Alfred Hitchcock and Stanley Kubrick. A commanding Murano glass chandelier takes centre stage, and rotating panels on the windowless walls alter the ambience depending on whether it’s day or night. Grand, gilded and dimly lit (since it is the evening), it reminds me of the gold room in Kubrick’s 1980 film The Shining – perhaps it served as inspiration. It would be silly not to choose a soufflé when dining at The Grill, which boasts the first dedicated sweet soufflé menu in London. I opt for the savoury Westcombe cheddar version to start, while my guest waits until dessert to select the Sicilian pistachio and salted caramel (after much deliberation). For the main course, we both decide to dine from the grill menu: my guest has a juicy Black Angus beef fillet and I am served two succulent slices of pork belly. The lemon tart serves as the perfect palate cleanser and is presented simply yet beautifully – encased in a meringue shell. Back upstairs, the bed is even more marshmallowlike than I expected, which makes rising for breakfast particularly hard. The restaurant’s atmospheric panels have been turned, and it feels as vibrant as the jugs of fruit juice that frame the buffet. My guest opts for a failsafe eggs Benedict, while I – as indecisive as ever – build my own, adding more components as our waiter suggests what seem like all my favourite things.

Butlers are on hand throughout our stay as part of the newly launched Essence of Belgravia experience

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The suites have been refurbished but the hotel’s mystery, romance and inimitable character is still discernible. Yes, the Essence of Belgravia experience might include butlers that will cater for your every need (within reason, of course), but as far as I’m concerned The Dorchester already has it covered. Belgravia suites from £1,258, or with Essence of Belgravia experience, until 31 December, from £1,458, 53 Park Lane, W1K, dorchestercollection.com

This page from top: The spa; afternoon tea at the promenade; the grill; the relaxation room in the spa opposite page: the belgravia suite, all images courtesy of the dorchester collection

101

Regulars

R e m e m b e r i ng M AYFA I R

Berry Bros. & Rudd Words: Nicole Abbott

erry Bros. & Rudd has traded from the same store for more than 315 years, establishing itself as Britain’s oldest wine and spirit merchant. Despite the implications of the name, Berry Bros. & Rudd was started by a woman: the Widow Bourne (only her surname is known) had two daughters and was the owner of No. 3 St James’s Street, where she opened a grocery store in 1698. Bourne’s daughter and son-inlaw, Elizabeth and William Pickering, went on to inherit the business, continuing to supply coffee to the area’s stylish coffeehouses and private members’ clubs. The next era of the firm was led by William Pickering Jr. (son of Elizabeth), who, following the death of his brother, employed his relation John Clarke as partner. During this time, the grocer’s scales were used to weigh high-society clientele when it became fashionable to watch your weight. It saved the shop’s customers – among them Lord Byron and William Pitt the Younger – a hefty fee incurred by the same service from doctors. Next to join the business was John Clarke’s grandson George Berry, who was only 16 when he made the two-day journey from Exeter to London in 1803 (Clarke’s daughter Mary, had married a wine merchant from Exeter). George’s family background, coupled with changing fashions in food and drink, meant that the store increasingly focused on alcohol. In 1838, George Berry befriended the future

102

clockwise from top left: no. 3 today; The Napoleon Wine Cellar; the exterior of the revamped shop at 63 pall mall

Napoleon III, who used one of No. 3’s cellars – now dubbed The Napoleon Cellar – to hold secret meetings while exiled in London. In the 1920s, Francis and Charles Berry, descendants of George, collaborated with wine merchant Hugh Rudd. Berry Bros. & Co became a limited company in the 1940s, but Rudd’s integral role in the business led the firm to change its name to Berry Bros. & Rudd. The Second World War soon shook the company’s solid foundations. Rudd and Francis both lost sons on the battlefield and so the business fell to the youngest Berry son, Anthony, who set up the firm’s second store in Basingstoke. No. 3 narrowly avoided obliteration, suffering fire damage on the top floors of the building and minor damage from bomb impacts on the exterior. The old wooden shutters saved the storefront, and survived to protect the building again during the 2011 London riots. In 1997, Berry Bros. & Rudd celebrated a second Royal Warrant, just a year before its 300th anniversary. Not long after, No. 3’s historic cellars were transformed into private events spaces and a prestigious wine school, while this year a new shop opened on 63 Pall Mall. To this day, the company is still run by the Berry and Rudd families. “The highlight of my job,” says chairman Simon Berry, “is guiding the business towards its next 300 years.” 63 Pall Mall, SW1Y, bbr.com

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Image courtesy of Taylor Howes Image courtesy of Haberdashery

Image courtesy of Pulse Cinemas

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Property news PrimeResi brings you the latest news in prime property and development in London

Backing up the Square A £517m whole loan for No.1 Grosvenor Square

odha UK has secured substantial backing for its flagship super-prime scheme in Mayfair. M&G Investments has agreed to a £517m whole loan to fund development of the firm’s No.1 Grosvenor Square project, showcased to buyers for the first time at the start of October. According to a statement, the entire sum will be invested and held by funds managed by M&G, one of the UK’s largest and oldest investment houses. The deal comes three years after the London-based developer swooped in on the former Canadian High Commission building, which is being transformed to deliver a mix of laterals and duplexes to a design by Eric Parry. In May, private investment firm Cain Hoy brought £290m in construction finance to Lodha for its other big prime central project, Lincoln Square.

The sum – described at the time as one of the biggest ever loans from a single provider for a UK residential project – included £80m to replace the existing debt, provided by Cain Hoy last autumn, with the rest funding completion of the project over the next two years.

A penthouse with pedigree Knight Frank sells £11.95m property above the Curzon Cinema

n a Grade II-listed building above the Curzon Cinema, a duplex residence has been sold for £11.95m by Knight Frank Mayfair. The penthouse spans 3,469sq ft over the building’s sixth and seventh floors. Its four spacious bedrooms include a master suite with views of Westminster, the London Eye and the Shard. It boasts an open-plan reception, office, kitchen and dining area as well as access to two underground parking spaces and 24-hour concierge service. It is fitted with underfloor heating throughout, marble bathrooms, granite surfaces in the kitchen,

PrimeQResi

floor-to-ceiling windows and a 1,316 sq ft wrap-around terrace. The penthouse was previously home to Dave Clark, who fronted the Dave Clark Five and regularly hosted big names, such as Freddie Mercury and Leo Sayer in the property. The cinema below was founded in 1934, importing little known international films for enthusiasts during the post-war period. Curzon Street is a five-minute walk from Green Park underground station, and ten minutes from Hyde Park Corner and Bond Street. 020 3463 0320, knightfrank.com/mayfair

primeresi.com

JOURNAL OF LUXURY PROPERTY

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Bathurst Street, Hyde Park W2 A spacious six bedroom house on the Hyde Park Estate Moments from the pretty boutiques and restaurants of Connaught Village, this wonderful family home with generously proportioned rooms features two private patio areas. 6 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms (2 en suite), reception room, dining room, kitchen, utility room, 2 guest cloakrooms, demised vaults. EPC: E. Approximately 321 sq m (3,452 sq ft). Leasehold: approximately 105 years remaining

Guide price: £5,695,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/hydepark hydepark@knightfrank.com 020 3641 7941

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

KnightFrank.co.uk/NGH060074

9 Bathurst Street - Mayfair Mag Dec

13/11/2017 09:23:47

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market

insight When the price is right Partner and head of Knight Frank Mayfair, Harvey Cyzer, reports on the highs and lows of the global property market

emand holds steady in prime central London as key indicators point to a market that is moving towards recovery mode. There has been a steady recovery in transaction volumes in prime central London in 2017 as asking price reductions stimulate demand. The number of exchanges was five per cent higher in the first seven months of this year compared to the same period in 2016. However, the process has not taken place in a uniform way across all markets, and price sensitivity remains high. Price declines continue to show evidence of bottoming out, while volumes were 21 per cent higher in June and July compared to 2016. Prices fell 0.2 per cent in August and annual growth was trimmed to -5.4 per cent, the lowest rate since November 2016. A number of economic, political and policy factors have affected the market over recent years, not least the snap general election, which weakened transaction volumes marginally over the summer. However, our view remains that buyers have become more phlegmatic over the course of the year regarding issues such as Brexit and stamp duty as there is a desire to get on with their lives. Buyers are still paying good prices for best-inclass property and turnkey apartments are performing strongly. There remain positives in

the marketplace; Mayfair is still a world-renowned destination and other factors such as currency fluctuations still entice a wide range of buyers. Furthermore, Knight Frank demand indicators reveal an improvement in forward-looking data, with an eight per cent rise in the number of new prospective buyers registering between January and August compared to the same period last year. Viewing levels were up by 14 per cent over the same period. The past several months have brought a general election result that few predicted, and the formal start of Brexit negotiations. Growth in higher price brackets continued to outperform lower price brackets, indicating how higher rates of stamp duty that initially affected demand at the top end of the market are becoming assimilated. It is no surprise that political uncertainty dominated a RICS report in July analysing the performance of the UK residential market. While the prime London property market is no exception to this rule, when considering the likely impact on pricing, it should be remembered that it has already faced political headwinds for almost three years.

Buyers have become more phlegmatic over the past year â&#x20AC;&#x201C; there is a desire to get on with their lives

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Knight Frank Mayfair, 120a Mount Street, W1K, 020 8166 7484

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All year round Local agents look back over the highs and lows of 2017

David Lee, head of sales, Pastor Real Estate “This was the year we expanded our sales team, recruiting two new senior sales negotiators. “In October we completed the sale of a first-floor apartment in Brooks Mews (pictured), which sold for £3m before it reached the open market and within days of the client finishing a full-scale renovation. It was one of the highest-recorded pound per sq ft sale prices in W1K for the year. “It has also been a bumper year for our lettings department. Two fine examples were a first-floor flat on Bruton Street and a top-floor apartment in Shepherd Market. “Despite perceived instability, the latest data reveals that prime central London

transaction volumes are nearly 20 per cent higher this quarter than the same period in 2016. “There has been a clear divide in buying activity over recent months, with attention focused towards apartments, which made up 92 per cent of sales over the past six months. Yet it is important to note that overall sales volumes are more than 25 per cent down compared to the 2014 market peak; despite price corrections, Mayfair is yet to fully absorb the past three years of economic and political changes. “What was unsurprising about 2017 was Mayfair’s unwavering ability to hold its own. It always has and – if history is anything to go by – it always will.” pastor-realestate.com

brook mews flat reception, courtesy of pastor real estate

Becky Fatemi, director, Rokstone “Some of our most incredible deals to date have taken place this year – as well as selling in excess of £40m in prime central London in the last quarter. Despite a somewhat uncertain market, I am delighted with the year Rokstone has had. “A personal highlight was the sale of a Hereford Road house, aptly named The California. Reaching a record-breaking price of £7.05m, and a record breaking price per square foot for Notting Hill. “The property had previously been on the market for six months and needed a revamp. Our home style team spent one week redesigning the house and then held a very successful property launch that secured a buyer.” rokstone.com

PROPERTY

charles street

Simon Burgoyne, partner,

over the course of the year, not least the snap general election, which weakened transaction volumes marginally over the summer. Without question

Knight Frank Mayfair and St James’s “A number of economic, political and policy factors have affected the market

currency continues to dictate the market. “While demand and transaction volumes remain healthy, we have also witnessed an increase in the number of new prospective buyers, coming from all corners of the globe. Undoubtedly, Mayfair’s position as the most fashionable location in London is assured. “Mayfair remains one of the top destinations in the £10m-plus bracket, and we achieved a number of record price per sq ft sales in 2017. My favourite sale was a truly stunning three bedroom lateral apartment on Charles Street (pictured left).” knightfrank.com

John White, associate and office head, Knight Frank Hyde Park “This has been another unpredictable year in W2. The very early signs of the year were that not much would change; the market was still sluggish. But we had glimmers of hope. In early February we held a public launch for the second phase of the former Hempel Hotel and contrary to expectations, in seven months since the entire scheme was sold out. That kind of performance is almost unheard of in the current market, and many buyers were domestic. “This was followed with a key sale of a flat at 105-106 Lancaster Parkside for £15.2m, the year’s record price for the area (pictured left). It was one of the best properties I’ve had the pleasure of being involved with: a truly magnificent first-floor lateral apartment facing Hyde Park with breathtaking proportions. It achieved a record price for 2017 in the area and deservedly so. “Since then the local market has picked up dramatically in viewing activity and applicant registrations (up by five per cent year on year in W2). Data suggests that W2 has begun to look attractive again compared to our neighbouring boroughs, with an average price per square foot of £1,343.” knightfrank.com lancaster parkside

David Adams, director, Humberts Mayfair “After declining volumes from the 2014 stamp duty hike to April this year, I was delighted to call the bottom of the market in central London. This

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autumn agents have seen recovery in higher value sales on the back of international interest related to a superb currency transactional rate,

and for the first time since 2013, buyers wanted us to find them a house within the next two months.” humberts.com

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BUCKINGHAM GATE ST. JAMESâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S SW1 A UNIQUE 3 BEDROOM DUPLEX APARTMENT MOMENTS FROM BUCKINGHAM PALACE This double-lateral apartment, 5,189 sqft, offers accommodation across two floors and two buildings, with a total width of c.60 feet (18.3 metres) across six windows. Offering views over the grounds of the Royal Palace, this meticulously designed apartment has been renovated for 21st-century living and is serviced by a range of private amenities. Accommodation: Entrance hall, drawing room, living room, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, master bedroom suite with ensuite shower, bathroom and dressing room, two further bedrooms with ensuite shower and bathrooms, guest cloakroom. Amenities: Lift access, secure underground car parking, 24-hour concierge, three private terraces, two utility rooms.

£14,000 / Week

louise@beauchamp.com

No tenant fees

+44 (0)20 7205 2481

www.beauchamp.com

24 Curzon Street, London W1J 7TF

+44 (0)20 7205 2481

NEWTON ROAD BAYSWATER W2 A UNIQUE FREEHOLD BUILDING CONSISTING OF THREE FLATS An imposing building, Robeson House is situated between in Bayswater and moments from Notting Hill. Its location is such that commuting around the capital and further afield is straightforward with many transport links close by including Bayswater and Royal Oak tube stations and London Paddington for trips outside London. Flat 1 Accommodation: Entrance hall, drawing room, kitchen/breakfast room, library, master bedroom with ensuite bathroom and dressing room, bedroom one with ensuite cloakroom and dressing room, two further bedrooms, guest bathroom, guest cloakroom, 3,310 sq ft. Flat 2 Accommodation: Entrance hall, studio/drawing room, dining room, kitchen, two bedrooms, guest shower room, kitchenette, 2,082 sq ft. Flat 3 Accommodation: Kitchenette, living room/bedroom, bathroom, storage space, 310 sq ft.

£8,500,000

Paul Finch

Freehold

paul@beauchamp.com

Joint Sole Agents

+44 (0) 20 7158 0915

www.beauchamp.com

24 Curzon Street, London W1J 7TF

+44 (0)20 7158 0915

Life in the village The charm of Shepherd Market is both enduring and evolving, says David Lee, head of sales at Pastor Real Estate

derby street

ucked away between the great thoroughfares of Piccadilly, Park Lane and Curzon Street is Shepherd Market. This small neighbourhood is one of the last remaining enclaves of London’s Georgian era, when buildings were created with human scale in mind. With its narrow alleyways and tiny squares, this deeply intriguing little ‘secret’ pocket of Mayfair can quite easily be missed if you are heading down from Berkeley Square or Bond Street to Green Park. It is a place where, even today, against the frantic backdrop of central London, life seems to slow down as people stop to linger

shepherd street

Derby Street, £6.25m This impressive freehold townhouse set over six floors is moments from Park Lane, on a charming cobbled street on the periphery of the Market – well away from the hubbub but still close enough to everything the area has to offer. It is 2,700 sq ft with a fantastic entertaining and living space and would make an excellent family home.

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in the upscale boutiques, or socialise in the cosy pubs and restaurants. Shepherd Market has a distinct character and charm; it is also one of the oldest parts of Mayfair with a close-knit community. It is described as having a village-like atmosphere because it was the site of the May Fair: 15 days of festivities throughout the month that ran from the late 13th century, on and off, until the early 18th century. It is still very much a village – arguably the only genuine village remaining in central London. Indeed, for certain types of creative people, the neighbourhood has always been a much-loved destination. It is also a home in its own right (once also a service area for the high-end hotels of Park Lane), a hub for theatrical types, a bawdy entertainment district and, in recent years, a vibrant community of bespoke retailers, art galleries and fashionable restaurants. The Market owes a lot to its local residents’ and retailers’ association, which offers a voice for local people as well as being responsible for organising annual events such as the Christmas Lights. Five or even ten years ago, many of the shops here were empty. Now nearly all are occupied and hosting thriving businesses, with a noticeable shift upmarket. Put simply – and with a few exceptions – you can live in a property above a retail unit; in a Georgian townhouse; or in a block of apartments. The average price per square foot in all types of property is less than the overall Mayfair average, demonstrating the potential for greater growth. There are also apartment buildings and purpose-built mansion blocks that might be purchased by investors, full-time residents, parents for children or more typically by those requiring second homes or boltholes for work or holidays.

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Over many decades, the area’s colourful history and louche side of life has ebbed but never completely disappeared. Shepherd Market is conveniently positioned a short stroll from theatres, the Curzon Mayfair cinema, clubs of St James’s and shopping on Bond Street, but also a five-minute walk to Green Park Tube station, numerous buses running along Piccadilly and a quick escape to the west via the A4. As Mayfair continues to evolve into a highly sought-after residential area, new landmark developments on the fringes of Shepherd Market are all attracting interest from those seeking to take advantage of this rich, historic part of London. 020 3879 8989, pastor-realestate.com shepherd street

Shepherd Street, £7.25m This beautifully presented three-bedroom mews house has a great entertaining space – allsinging, all-dancing with a screening room, TV, dining and bar area. It also has an integral garage and a roof terrace. It is ideally located within minutes of Green Park tube and the delights of Shepherd Market and Mayfair.

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www.pastor-realestate.com

FOR SALE: WHITE HORSE STREET, MAYFAIR, W1J

£3,250,000

Dual Aspect Reception Room | Bespoke Kitchen | Large Master Suite | Roof Terrace A 3 bedroom maisonette with a bright south facing roof terrace. Located in the heart of Shepherd Market, this attractive property is set over 3 floors and has been finished in a contemporary style to an excellent specification. Virtual Freehold.

FOR SALE: SHEPHERD MARKET, MAYFAIR, W1J

£6,500,000

Mixed-Use Building | Retail Unit & 3 New Apartments | Virtual Freehold A newly developed, fully let mixed-use building with retail unit and 3 brand new 1 bedroom apartments on the upper floors. Nestled in the heart of Shepherd Market the apartments have been developed to an exacting standard. Virtual Freehold.

FURTHER DETAILS FOR ALL SALES CONTACT: +44 (0)20 3879 8989 sales@pastor-realestate.com 11 Curzon Street, London, W1J 5HJ

www.pastor-realestate.com

TO LET: ARLINGTON STREET, ST JAMES SW1

ÂŁ1,750 per week - Furnished

2 Double Bedrooms I 24 Hour Concierge I Quiet Location I Bespoke Furnishings I Excellent Storage I Overlooking Green Park A rare opportunity to rent a beautifully presented apartment with the benefit of 24 hour concierge close to the Ritz Hotel overlooking ornamental gardens and Green Park. Entrance hall, reception room with Clive Christian dining set, eat-in kitchen, two double beds 2 baths (1 en-suite) utility room & guest cloaks. FURTHER DETAILS FOR ALL LETTINGS CONTACT: +44 (0)20 3195 9595 lettings@pastor-realestate.com 48 Curzon Street, London, W1J 7UL

TO LET BRUTON PLACE, MAYFAIR W1

£850 per week

TO LET BALFOUR PLACE, MAYFAIR W1

£1,100 per week

Newly developed I Superb Specification I Interior Design

2 Double Bedrooms I Quiet Mayfair Location I High Ceilings

Super brand new one bedroom apartment moments from Berkeley Square offering exceptional high tech finishes

Beautifully presented two bedroom property with the benefit of full length windows, high ceilings, balcony and period features.

TO LET DERBY STREET, MAYFAIR W1

TO LET QUEEN STREET, MAYFAIR W1 from £4,500 per week

£3,000 per week

5 Bed Townhouse I Fully Furnished I Flexible Accommodation

Unequalled Luxury I Private Club Facilities I Utilities Included

Delightful townhouse in sought after location close to Shepherd Market offering smart accommodation and excellent storage

A collection of exclusive two & three bedroom homes with access to private club facilities in the heart of Mayfair

FURTHER DETAILS FOR ALL LETTINGS CONTACT: +44 (0)20 3195 9595 lettings@pastor-realestate.com 48 Curzon Street, London, W1J 7UL

Mayfair Showroom 66 Grosvenor Street, London, W1K 3JL 28 offices in Central London and over 60 across London

Green Street, W1K £6,950,000

A six bedroom penthouse apartment located within this attractive period house with south facing views over the private gardens of Green Street. With direct lift access, there is a spacious reception room with separate kitchen and dining room, four bathrooms and a roof terrace, energy rating c. Dexters Mayfair 020 7590 9590

St James’s Place, SW1A £5,650,000

An elegant Grade II Listed freehold townhouse which is presented in excellent condition throughout. This house has many period features with the original panelling, sash windows and shutters having been recently refurbished. There are three reception rooms, five bedrooms, five bathrooms and a patio terrace. Dexters Mayfair 020 7590 9590

dexters.co.uk

South Audley Street, W1K £3,950 per week

A five bedroom duplex apartment over the top two floors of this purpose built building in prime Mayfair Village. The property has been fully refurbished throughout and further benefits include three reception rooms, a dining room and a private roof terrace, energy rating e. Dexters Mayfair 020 7590 9595

Brook Street, W1K £7,995 per week

This seven bedroom family house is arranged over six floors providing spacious and flexible accommodation throughout. There are four reception rooms, seven bathrooms, a lift and a dining room. The property benefits from one of the largest private gardens in Mayfair, energy rating d. Dexters Mayfair 020 7590 9595

dexters.co.uk

Tenants fees apply: £180 per tenancy towards administration, £60 reference fee per tenant and £144 towards the end of tenancy check out report (all inc VAT).

Grosvenor Square, Mayfair The Grosvenor Square Apartments are located in desirable Mayfair, between the wonderful, green, open spaces of Hyde Park and the vibrant, cosmopolitan bustle of the West End. Luxury retailers are a five minute walk away as are many of Londonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s finest dining experiences.

Pegasi Management Company Limited 207 Sloane Street London SW1X 9QX E: enquiries@pegasi.co.uk | T: +44 (0)207 245 4500 pegasi.co.uk

NO ONE NEEDS PERSUADING AS TO WHY THEY SERVICE THEIR CAR, YACHT OR PLANE. BUT THERE HASNâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T BEEN AN EQUIVALENT FOR THEIR HOME UNTIL BOLD & REEVES

CONVENIENCE. PEACE OF MIND. VALUE. INFO@BOLDANDREEVES.CO.UK | 020 7408 7590 | BOLDANDREEVES.CO.UK

A new age You service your car, yacht and private jet, so why not your house? Bill Shipton, managing director of Bold & Reeves in Mayfair, doesn’t understand why either. He explains how he created an innovative platform to ensure property maintenance is convenient, cost effective and, above all, stress-free

old & Reeves started in 2012 when I was looking for a service that could provide a turn-key outsourced solution for the management of high-end properties in London. I couldn’t find one. So I started a joint venture with a Middle Eastern family, who had 15 London residences that needed quality management, and the Sunley Group, a long-established British property company with experience of residential construction and maintenance. We found that the usual surveyor’s report on purchase of a property was rather rudimentary – it just shows that the roof is alright or that there’s no subsidence. The key thing the report won’t tell you is what it will cost to run the property. What are the moving parts, what needs to be serviced and what will be the cost of that periodic maintenance? That’s where we come in. Bold & Reeves operates around two key principles: ‘proactive maintenance’ and ‘continuity of knowledge’. Proactive maintenance is rather like servicing a car. You service your car because you don’t want it to break down. People aren’t used to thinking about their property like that. However, to prevent a boiler breaking down or an air conditioning unit packing up, all it needs is regular servicing, costing you less in the long run when the situation comes to breaking point. Bold & Reeves deals with this through a comprehensive health check of a property. This audit varies depending on the homeowner’s requirements but could include: creation of floor plans and electrical plans, a review of current maintenance suppliers, identification of all maintenance tasks and recommendations as to frequency.

PHOTOGRAPHY: SAREL JANSEN

property

? What’s in a name? bold (bəʊld) n. from Old English. House, dwelling-place, mansion, hall, castle. Related to build. reeve (ri:v) n. Anglo origin. Administrative official, manager of a manor. As in shire-reeve (predecessor to the sheriff). Earliest form of estate manager.

The second part, continuity of knowledge, occurs through the Bold & Reeves logbook (available as a website and app), where each audit, check-up and service is stored electronically. It can be accessed by the homeowner at any point to see any planned maintenance (as suggested by Bold & Reeves in the first audit), any reactive tasks (of things unexpectedly breaking), and enhancements (developments to the property, such as an extension). I have rarely come across somebody who has knowledge of who has fixed what, when and for how much. By aggregating all that information in one easy-to-use resource, Bold & Reeves can help homeowners keep on top of their property maintenance. In that respect, it’s like the logbook in a car glovebox. It will ensure properties 'break down' less often and cost less. It also proves useful both at the time of selling and also for insurance. People who are time-poor are not able to stop and worry about these things.

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The logbook records every task with an audit trail from when it was reported to when it was completed. There is also a schedule to see which tasks are coming up, electronic records of the property, and photographs listing details of serial numbers and brands of all equipment. This not only provides information to the homeowner but also to the subcontractor called to fix a problem, which ensures the turnaround time is as little as possible. Our cutting-edge technology can be accessed at any point and anywhere in the world. Plus, there is just one number to call that is open 24/7, two property managers on an account and only one bill to pay each month. We call our subcontractors ‘partners’ as they undergo vetting and security checks to ensure they are of the right calibre and provide services at discounted prices. We have more than 200 in our little black book. The price for a car without service history is significantly lower. The principle for our properties is the same. When we took on a 16,000sq ft property in The Boltons, the homeowners were spending about £350,000 a year on maintenance, as well as issues they weren’t able to solve, such as damp. It took Bold & Reeves about 18 months to reduce the running costs to £125,000, as well as eliminate the problems. That’s a really meaningful reduction in costs, let alone in hassle. Bold & Reeves helps deliver value, whether it’s reduced maintenance costs, cheaper insurance or enhanced premium value to the property as and when you come to sell it.

How it works

Bold & Reeves completes a detailed property health check, highlighting what services will be required throughout the year

A personal property manager is allocated, who is available 24/7

The homeowner is given access to the Bold & Reeves online logbook with the property’s service history and future tasks

Access is given to the partner network so the property receives regular servicing from experienced subcontractors

All past, present and future property reports and analysis are available at the click of a button

52 Mount Street, W1K, boldandreeves.co.uk

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PROPERTY

Elegant living Taylor Wimpey reveals the first apartment of its new development in the heart of Westminster

eading developer Taylor Wimpey Central London has unveiled the first show apartment at Westminster Quarter – a collection of 90 high specification homes in the heart of the capital. Designed by furnishing specialist Hatch Interiors, the apartment combines contemporary elegance with sophisticated flair to achieve a residence that reflects the heritage and prestige of its Westminster surroundings. In a palette of pastel grey, blue and hints of metallic gold, these stylish and calming interiors display opulent touches throughout. A patterned feature wallpaper offers a modern, striking backdrop for the living area, and a bold splash of colour. The industrial aesthetic found in the gold

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The residents’ roof garden features panoramic views of the London skyline

and charcoal metalwork tables, lamps and mirrors – all echoing the area’s distinguished heritage – contrast the contemporary artwork and clean, sleek lines of the kitchen. The two-bedroom show apartment boasts sought-after open-plan living spaces, which are complemented by floor-to-ceiling windows that enhance the proportions and flow of light throughout. Bedrooms feature luxurious built-in wardrobes finished in dark timber. Its winter garden is a highly desirable outdoor space. Located in zone one, Westminster Quarter has an enviable location within walking distance of many prestigious central attractions, including Buckingham Palace and St James’s Park. The scheme features a spectacular landscaped residents’ roof garden with panoramic views of the London skyline, capturing landmarks such as Big Ben, the Palace of Westminster and the London Eye. Limited apartments remaining, from £945,000, 020 3053 9968, westminsterquarter.com

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Rokstone treats every client’s property as a luxury instruction, regardless of its size or price.

Leading prime central London agent Rokstone launched the lettings division earlier this year, designed to extend the

Wilton Place, Knightsbridge SW1X

4 Bed | 3,618 sq. ft

£5,950 p/w

company’s comprehensive residential offering and complement the existing lifestyle and concierge service. Successfully letting properties with a combined annual rental in excess of £2 million since launching in May 2017. Operating out of the firm’s existing Marylebone offices, the new division offers both long and short-term lettings, covering prime central London areas such as Marylebone, Knightsbridge, Mayfair, Belgravia, Fulham, Kensington and Chelsea, and Regent’s

Upper Grosvenor Street, Mayfair W1

Park. The lettings department is run by

3 Bed | 1,782 sq. ft

£2,950 p/w

Head of Lettings Olivia McSweeney

Cleveland Square, Hyde Park W2

2 Bed | 1,138 sq. ft Olivia McSweeney Head of Lettings T: 020 7580 2030 olivia@rokstone.com

£995 p/w

Rokstone.com Rokstone Lettings 020 7580 2030 5 Dorset Street, London W1U 6QJ

SO LD

A Selection of Our Favourite Mayfair

Charles Street - Asking Price: £15,950,000

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Bourdon Street - Asking Price: £16,750,000

Grosvenor Square - Asking Price: £7,500,000

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Charles Street - Asking Price: £10,750,000

Three Kings Yard - Asking Price: £3,750,000

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Mount Street - Asking Price: £3,750,000

Mount Row - Asking Price: £3,250,000

Charles Street - Asking Price: £2,500,000

bringing residential life back to mayfair

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Properties Sold in 2017

Half Moon Street - Asking Price: £14,950,000

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Green Street - Asking Price: £14,950,000

Adams Row - Asking Price: £4,250,000

St. Anselms Place - Asking Price: £6,500,000

25 Years since Annie Tempest created

The Directors and Staff of Wetherell Wish you a

‘TOTTERING BY GENTLY’ with their spirtual home in Mount Street, Dicky, Daffy and the dogs are appearing in WethereLl’s Christmas Windows.

Pop down to see some of their greatest hits.

Merry Christmas

102 Mount Street, London W1K 2TH T: 020 7493 6935 E: mail@wetherell.co.uk

www.tottering.com

wetherell.co.uk

no-one knows mayfair better than wetherell

PROPERTY

A Cinderella story Wetherell has transformed a former coach house into a sumptuous mansion

he archetypal mews exterior of Culross House might look rather quaint, but the agreeably symmetrical façade, complete with an Edwardianstyle gable pediment – its triangular peak is a nod to its 1929 conversion by architect Ernest G. Cole – in fact hides a seemingly never-ending warren of rooms. This section of Culross Street that lies west of Park Street was called Kings Street Mews until 1914. It was the site of the stables and coach houses of the great houses of Upper Brook Street and Upper Grosvenor Street.

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Number 25 was once the coach house of the head groom – responsible for the horses and the stables – for the Capel family, also known as the former Earls of Essex. In 1814 it was taken over by Sir Thomas Stepney; then after his descendants had it converted in 1929, the property changed hands a number of times before it eventually became dilapidated. The three-storey building has now been transformed by Wetherell. A basement extension has made it into a six-floor townhouse mansion, with a feature staircase wrapped around a custom-built glass lift. Its design means

that natural light can travel down to the basement levels, spreading out into the living areas. The fivebedroom property covers 8,051 sq ft, including a large private walled garden, swimming pool, cinema and spa complex. The décor takes inspiration from some of the world’s most exclusive hotels and revolves around a ‘best of British’ theme. The furniture is bespoke and there is a subtle palette of pale and royal blues throughout. The master bedroom and en-suite has Art Deco touches, while the cinema room is a sensuous den of deep plum shades and furry throws. Just steps from Hyde Park and the development of a new six-star hotel and shopping destination on the site of the former American Embassy, this hidden mansion has claimed one of Mayfair’s prime spots – Culross Street certainly isn’t coach class anymore. £32.5m (freehold), 102 Mount Street, W1K, wetherell.co.uk

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Curzon Street - £2,250 p/w

Shepherd Street - £4,250 p/w

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Shepherd Street - £5,250 p/w

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Charles Street - £5,500 p/w

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A Selection of Our Favourite Mayfair Properties Let in 2017

Charles Street - £925 p/w

25 Years since Annie Tempest created

‘TOTTERING BY GENTLY’ with their spirtual home in Mount Street, Dicky, Daffy and the dogs are appearing in WethereLl’s Christmas Windows.

Pop down to see some of their greatest hits.

Mount Street - £750 p/w

The Directors and Staff of Wetherell Wish you a

Merry Christmas

102 Mount Street, London W1K 2TH T: 020 7493 6935 E: mail@wetherell.co.uk

www.tottering.com

wetherell.co.uk

no-one knows mayfair better than wetherell

DISCOVER THE PERFECT CHRISTMAS GIFT