The Mayfair Magazine March 2012

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

from the

E DITOR Kate Harrison

A

s we all know, 2012 marks the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, an astonishing sixty years since she first solemnly promised to govern ‘her peoples’ to the very best of her ability. Well, no one can deny that she has more than fulfilled her duty, standing strong as the head of state during an immeasurably changing world from 1952 to today. to celebrate this undeniably momentous occasion, the V&a have produced one of their most important exhibits to date, collating a lifetime of photographs taken by court photographer Sir Cecil Beaton and bringing them to public view for the first time. art editor Carol Cordrey reports (p. 38). a look at of the coronation photographs will reveal an abundance of beautiful jewels, many of which came from the world’s oldest jeweller, garrard. mike Peake looks at the impressive heritage of a house whose link to the monarchy goes back for countless crowns, tiaras and generations (p.18). it is inevitable that a celebration of the Queen’s Jubilee, must also be a celebration of Britain, of what being British means today. For this reason we have dedicated this issue to the heritage of both mayfair and Britain as a whole, honouring all of the unique aspects that come together to make our nation great.

From the BBC to cricket, a free press to a stoic determination, there are so many things to be proud of.

Olivia Platt-hepworth looks at the continued greatness of British Design (p. 46), while matthew Carter tests out the new offering from British classic Bentley. elle Blakeman takes a tour of St James to find the backstory to one of Britain’s most iconic fictional hero’s, James Bond, whose author, and by extension character, was very much a product of mayfair. and if you’re stuck for reasons to be proud, our irreverent guide to the ‘art of being British’ is just the thing (p. 23). goodbye and god save the Queen.

006

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

N E W S TO R E

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

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

www.npeal.com

C ONTENTS

13

32

A royal view

Residents’ news

A look at the connection between Mayfair’s finest hotels and our most elevated family

Celebrate the start of a new season with our guide to the top events taking place in Mayfair, St. James’s and Belgravia

24

80

St James Bond

I may be some time

We investigate Mayfair’s contribution to the world’s greatest action hero

British explorer Neil Laughton recreates Captain Scott’s ill-fated mission to mark the 100-year anniversary

28

88

On the blue plaque trail

English heritage

From Lord Nelson to Jimi Hendrix, these bright discs offer a window into Mayfair’s past

Spend some time at the Cotswold’s Ellenborough Park

102 National spirit Get into the Jubilee spirit with the nation’s favourite tipple

REGULARS 6

Editor’s letter

31

My Mayfair

38

Exhibition focus

49

Collection

62

Fashion

77

Interiors

82

Motoring

87

Travel

95

Health & Beauty

101

Food & Drink

110

Concierge

115

Property

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

MARCH 2012 s issue 006

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

Editor Kate Harrison

Editor-in-Chief Lesley Ellwood

Deputy Editor Elle Blakeman

Collection Editor Annabel Harrison

art competitions which are judged by distinguished artists.

Head of Design Hiren Chandarana

Production Manager Fiona Fenwick

Elizabeth Gibson

Editorial Assistant Katie Richardson

Client Relationship Director Kate Oxbrow

Art Editor Carol Cordrey

Head of Finance Elton Hopkins

Food & Drink Editor Neil Ridley

Managing Director Eren Ellwood

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

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

Neil Ridley As well as being deputy editor for Men’s lifestyle magazine The Chap, Neil is also a regular contributor to Whisky Magazine and Imbibe, and has featured in The Evening Standard and Sunseeker. His irreverent whisky blog caskstrength.net was recently nominated for several online awards.

Charlie Moore Previously a fashion editor at InStyle, Charlie has gone on to contribute to The Times, Glamour and Marie Claire, and is often called upon to dress the A-listers for the awards season (most recently at the Golden Globes). This month she has produced the beautiful first lady-inspired photo shoot at Mayfair’s exquisite Duke’s hotel (p. 62).

Proudly published by

RUNWILD M

E

D

I

A

G

R

O

U

P

7 Heron Quay, Canary Wharf, London E14 4JB 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, Chelsea and Marylebone.

ARCADE Diamonds are forever

Expert advice and exquisite jewels

Timely

fashion

Cover: Cecil Beaton, Princess Elizabeth at Buckingham Palace, March 1945 © V&A Images (www.vam.ac.uk) See page 38

For the stylish modern day gentleman

Irresistibly

luxurious The ultimate guide to London’s Mayfair

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

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

UNITED KINGDOM

AUSTRALIA

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

Sydney Gold Coast

calleija.com

FEATURE

Mandarin Oriental

A Royal View mayfair’s hotels have been housing royals for generations, providing everything from shelter in wartime to grand celebrations of weddings and the birth of future heirs. But what stories have been left behind? EllE BlakEman looks at the royal history of some of London’s finest establishments

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

013

T

he royal family have always been the source of deep fascination to their subjects. Holding the glamour and prominence of their international status, they are expected to maintain a graceful distance from the day-to-day world, much like the Hollywood stars of the golden age – traditionally seen and not heard. The ‘golden circle’ rightfully remains tightlipped about the private lives of the royals, but we can glean much from the choices that they make, especially with so many options available to them. From Princess Catherine’s favoured designers to Prince Philips’ support of the arts, there are all sorts of ways in which they reveal their personalities to us.

When away from the palace, their choice of hotels are a telling insight into our most elevated family, showing us where they choose to spend their private moments, dating back to the days when Queen Victoria could often be found taking afternoon tea at Brown’s, always with sponge cake.

Queen Mary, however, would apparently spend her evenings at The Mandarin Oriental, whose stunning Georgian building overlooks Hyde Park, and the Prince of Wales, later Edward VII would come here for society balls and most of his semi-official engagements. Elegant dances were many and often and the guest list invariably included a royal or two. As a result, it was here where Queen Elizabeth II and the late Princess Margaret first learned to dance, preparing them for a lifetime of society events, one that has led up to the present day, when the royal family were again in attendance at the pre-wedding gala on the eve of The Royal Wedding of The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.

Mandarin Oriental, Ballroom entrance

Claridge’s, Front Hall

FEATURE

Claridge’s, Tea

and then there is Claridge’s, a hotel once filled with so much visiting royalty – shortly before then Princess elizabeth’s wedding – that when a harassed diplomat rang and asked to urgently speak to the King, he was told, ‘Certainly sir, but which one?’. Widely referred to as the annexe of Buckingham Palace, Claridge’s has earned a place in the hearts of many of our royal family. after the War, State delegations from all over the world stayed at Claridge’s and many of these would be invited to attend a banquet in their honour at Buckingham Palace. eventually it became traditional for visiting statesmen to return hospitality by hosting a banquet for the Queen in return at Claridge’s, and as a result, the Royal Family became familiar with Claridge’s and chose to host many of their own private family parties at the hotel. the Queen mother would often take her tea here, and the Brook Street hotel would always ensure a fresh bouquet of sugar peas was on her table.

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

015

FEATURE

another hotel whose Royal connections have never been in doubt is the Ritz, who remains the first and only hotel to have ever been awarded a Royal Warrant (awarded by hRh the Prince of Wales for Banqueting & Catering Services). the imposing building overlooking green Park holds over a centuries’ worth of rich history of royal stories – as you would expect from somewhere with a dedicated bell for the doorman to announce the presence of royal guests. One great example is the story of Ve day in 1945, when the Queen, then still a princess, was rumoured to have slipped out of Buckingham Palace and danced the conga through the Ritz with her lady in waiting Jean Woodroffe. ‘What was amusing is that we went into the Ritz hotel through one door and out of the other door, at the other end, doing the conga. and the extraordinary thing was that nobody seemed to take much notice,’ says ms Woodroffe, on their carefree celebration at the end of World War ii. another fabulous titbit from the royal table is the story of edward Prince of Wales and his mistress Lady Furness, who were both regulars at the Ritz. Lady Furness met with an american friend at the Ritz’s Palm court, and told her she needed to sail back to new York for a few weeks. ‘Oh, no,’ her friend reportedly remarked, ‘Your little man is going to be so lonely!’ ‘Well, dear, you’ll just have to look after him while i’m gone.’ in her autobiography, Lady Furness later noted that ‘Wallis took my advice all too literally,’ speaking of Wallis Simpson, whose romance, and later marriage, with the prince led him to abdicate the throne. Royal scandals aside, the Ritz has been the venue for many a royal celebration, from Princess margaret’s 50th birthday in 1980, to the Queen's 80th birthday party, all trusting in the discretion of the historic hotel. indeed it is the place where Prince Charles and Camilla made their first public appearance as a couple in 1999, where the image of them leaving the hotel made headlines all over the world. and what of the future of mayfair’s royal hotel guests?

Princess Catherine made an unexpected deviation from the palace by opting to stay at the goring on the eve of her wedding last april. the beautiful five-star hotel in the heart of Belgravia is the only luxury London hotel still to be family run, staying within the goring

family since it was opened by Otto goring in 1910, and was said to be the Queen mother’s favourite hotel, who could often be found in the dining room enjoying tea (to this day the hotel’s chefs still serve eggs Drumkilbo – one of the Queen mother’s favourite dishes – in celebration of her life). in keeping with the young royal couple and with the wedding itself, the goring has many connections to the past, but maintains a quirky sense of fun, evidence of which can be seen dotted around the edwardian building, from the white sheep scattered around the hotel to the fresh flower placed in the buttonhole of the lobby statue of founder Otto goring. apparently the signature white sheep are given to exceptionally favoured guests as parting gifts, and we can only assume that the former ms middleton was one of them… Being the nearest hotel to Buckingham Palace, the goring does have several previous royal connections. indeed, during the 1937 coronation of King george Vl, the visiting norwegian Crown Prince, opted for the goring, explaining his fondness for the hotel by saying ‘at Buckingham Palace i have to share a bath with five people! here i have one to myself.’ While a bath of one’s own is not quite the mark of luxury it once was, it is worth noting that the goring was the first hotel to introduce en-suite bathrooms, and central heating to all its 69 rooms. the hotel celebrated its 100-year anniversary in 2010 with a plush refurbishment, although sadly the price of a room has moved on a little from the original seven shillings and sixpence charged a century ago.

With many of these ‘royal’ hotels there is a sense of full-circle history – the goring’s chefs were responsible for Prince Charles’ Christening cake back in 1948, and in 2008 held a brunch for his 60th birthday; Claridge’s hosted David Linley’s wedding day, and later on he became responsible for the refurbishment of several of their suites; the places future Kings and Queens learn to dance upon become the very ballrooms used to celebrate their grandchildren’s weddings. the heritage, joy and celebration of the moving years is something that these grand buildings have seen much of. and with a year of Diamond Jubilee celebrations, they’ll be seeing many more to come.

Above left / The Goring, Lobby Left / The Goring, Russell Sage Suite

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

017

jewel

The

in the Crown

As the world’s oldest jeweller and a history with the crown dating back over 275 years, Garrard are the obvious sponsor for the V&A’s celebratory exhibit of the diamond jubilee. Mike Peake takes a look at the house’s remarkable royal relationship

XXXXXX

Main image / Cecil Beaton, Queen Elizabeth II in Coronation Robes, June 1953 Š V&A images Left/ Yellow gold and rose quartz pendant, Star & Garter collection

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

019

FEATURE

Left / Coloured double ring, Star & Garter collection

o put it into perspective, Robert Walpole had recently become Britain’s first Prime minister, handel’s alcina was premiering at the Royal Opera house and no one was going to even start thinking about an ‘industrial Revolution’ for another decade. the year was 1735, and garrard founder george Wickes had just gone into business on his own. he could scarcely have guessed that within a few years he would be appointed goldsmith to the Prince Of Wales – or, indeed, that he was laying the foundations of the most enduring story in the history of British jewellery. almost three hundred years on, it is a tale that is still being written; a story rich with elegance, royal patronage, and imbued with the spirit of British craftsmanship at its very best. to survive more than 275 years and lay claim to the title of World’s Oldest Jewellery house requires a determination that has seen garrard soldier on as many of its competitors fell by the wayside. it hasn’t always been easy, but the company was perhaps dealt a kinder hand than most when it became so deeply entwined with the Royal Family. it was Robert garrard Sr, taking over the firm in 1802, who cemented the burgeoning royal relationship, and many of the company’s commissions over the next 100 years now stand in sumptuous private collections and museums all over the world. the next century was similarly glittering, garrard being asked to work on the Queen’s 1953 Coronation and, in 1981, to provide an engagement ring for a certain Lady Diana Spencer. Prince William plucked the very same ring from his pocket when he asked Kate middleton to marry him in 2010.

having now served six successive monarchs, it seems only fitting for garrard to have designed a special Diamond Jubilee pendant to mark the Queen’s big year.

Created in 18ct white, yellow or rose gold and featuring a dazzling white topaz, the pendant is released in 12 variations, each with a birthstone for that personal touch. to mark its launch, garrard are holding a Diamond Jubilee exhibition in their exquisite Queen mary room at the company’s flagship albemarle Street store: it’s a rare, introspective glimpse into the inner workings of garrard, with original designs for historic royal pieces and the company’s Royal Ledger making a very rare public appearance. there is little doubt that 2012 is a special year for garrard, but the feel-good factor runs deeper than the jeweller’s royal connections. garrard, for example, was recently named one of the first 20 companies worldwide to launch Fairtrade and Fairmined gold. in January, garrard’s acclaimed creative director Stephen Webster travelled to Peru on the trail of Fairtrade gold to experience first hand the difference that Fairtrade certification will make to artisanal mining communities. today, this very gold is used for bespoke commissions.

For proof that venerable jewellery houses can be ‘cool’, too, look no further than last may, when the company teamed up with the Royal College of art to create a ‘magic mirror’ in which window-shoppers outside their mayfair store could see themselves wearing a £100,000 tiara. Stephen Webster’s influence is also a very contemporary one, ensuring that the house stays on top of the demands of a modern clientele.

Juggling the exacting demands of today’s jewellerybuying public with garrard’s sometimes overwhelming sense of history is a difficult line to walk, but the critics seem to think they have it just about right. earlier this year, Retail Jeweller magazine hinted that with garrard once again at the forefront of buyers’ minds when it comes to luxury jewellery – exactly as it was in 1735 – history might just be repeating itself.

Above / Blue Sapphie and Diamond Ring, Entanglement collection

020

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

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

QUINTESSENTIAL BRITISH LEATHER GOODS SINCE 1934

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

Ettinger Pinstripe Ad Canary Feb12 297x210.indd 1

19/1/12 11:18 AM

FEATURE

The Art

oF bEing bRiTish What does it mean to be British? elle Blakeman investigates the contradictory codes and conventions that make up our collective identity Being British is so much more than a nationality. it’s a mindset, a feeling, an outlook on life that it utterly unique. it’s a shared understanding of centuries of rules, codes and conventions that dictate our behviours in ways most of us don’t even realise anymore: dress codes, queues, small talk, hat-wearing, rsVP’s and Faux Pax, afternoon tea... the list is endless. the one trait that is always seen as the most inextricable to us Brits is our unequivocally high ranking of politeness, which is taken to almost pathological levels at times. We join a queue no matter what the circumstances, dating back to a time of rationing in the War; the great Blitz spirit that saw everyone ‘in it together’ forbid any sort of pushing to the front. many decades later and this remains, leading to order wherever there is a group of people wanting the same thing.

While in this queue, however you will also note the accepted use of personal space, something again that we have managed to maintain on all but public transport, where an aversion of eye contact and a pretence that you are not actually touching is crucial. small talk is another politeness that has trickled into everyday life. ‘how are you?’ should only ever really be answered with ‘Fine thank you, and you?’. to answer ‘great’ is arrogant, but to launch into a diatribe about your various ailments or financial troubles would be viewed in the same way as taking off your trousers and waving them in the air. the weather is a classically safe option and you can never underestimate the englishman’s ability to be surprised by the month of the year (despite the continuity of this annual pattern) or the weather within it (again, which will often be absolutely as expected). as samuel Johnson noted, ‘it is commonly observed, that when two englishmen meet, their first talk is of the weather’. Quite. this compulsive politeness will also lead the British to apologise for almost anything, regardless of circumstance or fault. if someone spills his drink on you, you must immediately apologise for being in the way. he naturally will also apologise and you will both go away marginally vexed but happy that you escaped this awkward exchange without a ‘scene’ (oh how the true Brit hates an attention-drawing ‘scene’!). if something is worthy of

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

a scene, you must simply hold you head high, don the stiff Upper lip, and remove yourself from the situation. ah the stiff Upper lip, where would the empire be without it? this facial quirk is crucial for weathering any storm that may appear, and is often combined with dark gallows humour (also a British essential). adversity, we are taught, from grandfather’s, war films and anyone senior to us, should be met with stoicism and poise.

Our politeness has led to conventions that would never survive overseas: we don’t discuss money, we wear hats at weddings and ascot, we hate to complain officially, yet we love to moan (a British person knows this is a contradiction in terms yet manages to walk the line between the two with ease), and all achievements – be they personal, academic, sporting or professional must be shrugged off with a vague witticism exclaiming that you had virtually nothing to do with the success. it seems that British humour, like our bulky three-pronged plugs, does not travel well. satire, self-deprecation (but never self pity), and april Fool’s Day are all things unthinkable outside this fair isle. an american would never jokingly refer to themselves as an ‘alcoholic’ and an asian businessman would never wake up on a specific spring morning and know that they can go around pulling ridiculous pranks that are totally acceptable, but only until 12pm on the dot. this would be madness.

But among our own indigenous madness there is great method, or at least there once was. happily, another charming British trait is our determination to hold on to tradition, however outdated or borderline absurd, so it seems that the vast array of conventions and contradictions that comprise the average Brit will never truly die out. and thank goodness for that.

002

Š 2011 Getty Images

FEATURE

St.James Bond Mayfair and James bond are inextricably linked, from the tailors who made the clothes that made the man, to the casino where bond picked up his enviable card shark skills, EllE BlakEman finds that there’s more london in 007 than you realise

Double oh seven. even saying that feels sexy. The sheer impact of those few syllables, not to mention the collective understanding of their coded meaning, makes you wonder if there will ever be any other protagonist that will capture our attention quite like one Mr James bond.

The original action man, Fleming describes bond as a ‘healthy, violent man in his mid-thirties’. he invented the concept of a man who was universally coveted – women wanted him and men wanted to be him. And how often does the whole species unite, least of all over something cool? And bond is cool.

This year marks fifty years since Ian Fleming’s imperturbable agent first hit the silver screen, as sir sean Connery morphed seemlessly into the role that would define his extraordinary career. bond was the anti-hero hero – he got dirty, he annoyed his superiors, he started fights, and he always, always, got the girl. Fiesty ones too, not smiley, forgiving easy-going types, but sultry, intelligent, strong-minded women with every intension of putting him in his place, they all fell under his ‘don’t play by the rules’ charm, even while hating themselves for it. so who was bond? essentially he was Fleming himself – or rather he was who Fleming wanted to be,

which as we know, soon became who every man wanted to be. An excellent sportsman during his days at eton, Fleming then went onto careers in stockbroking then writing, after dropping out of sandhurst ‘because of the ladies’. When WWII hit, he joined the naval Intelligence, playing at covet operations and spy games, and was even responsible for deploying a crack commando team behind enemy lines. so, a well-connected ladies’ man, with a penchant for the good life and serious working knowledge of naval intelligence and spy matters…

And if bond is Fleming, himself a well-bred product of Mayfair and st James, then this area can be credited with influencing one of the most suave and devastating hero’s the world has ever known. Fleming’s world of fast cars, shaken martinis and hand-made everything imparted onto bond a predilection for the best, giving him a gravitas that garnered respect from everyone. The area – being positioned so close to the Court of st James – drew the finest tailors, shoe-makers, casinos and bars that england could offer – with businesses’ naturally moving near to their elite clientele. When you think about it, of course bond came from Mayfair, in fact, he couldn’t possibly have come from anywhere else.

025

1. Turnbull & Asser

bond without a suit is simply not bond. Fleming, a man of exquisite taste, knew a thing or two about suits, and always came to Turnbull & Asser for his own, so when it came to creating bond – a character also of impeccable dressing – it was unthinkable for him to have gone anywhere else. And so started a lifetime of bond’s connection with the st James tailor, whose inconspicuous bespoke store on bury street could boast a delicious list of royal and celebrity fans if they were so inclined (naturally, they are far too discreet to do so). however a quick look at the wall will give an indication of the quality awaiting customers – the royal warrant from Prince Charles hangs on one, while tens of famous faces peer out from another, signing their gratitude and stamp of approval.

It was here that Connery first truly became bond, putting on a made-to-measure suit that turned him into the agent we have come to know so well. legend has it that Connery was told to sleep in the suit as that is what bond would have done on occasion. It was made to be comfortable enough to do so, and well enough to still look good the next day.

2. Floris

nine generations of perfumers have been housed in this rather special place on Jermyn street, and it was a spot that Fleming frequented in his ‘real’ life.

Again Fleming’s choices became bond’s and Floris’ no. 89 was the scent for them both. undoubtably a part of his charm, and seemingly effortless way with the ladies, the heady, woody scent of no. 89 will forever evoke the smell of seduction and danger for anyone who knew bond/Connery/Fleming.

Fleming also mentioned the stores lime bath essence in the novel Dr no – a masculine, refreshing citrusy scent, which according to edward bodenham, ninth generation of the Floris family, was orginally designed to awaken the senses after a day sweating it out on the hot streets of london in the summer – ideal then, for the action hero needing to wash the day off before hitting the casinos.

FEATURE

3.Dukes

It was the drink order that changed everything. not for bond the stirred gin of old, oh no. he demanded some leg work from his barman. ‘shaken not stirred’ is probably the most memorable association with 007, proving that here was a man who knew exactly what he wanted from absolutely everything. And Duke’s is where it all started. It was here that Fleming would take his usual seat by the window, at the end of the day, and order his favourite dry martini – shaken of course – light his cigar, and let his pen flow, bringing to life his impeccable fictional counterpart.

Alessandro Palazzi, the man in charge of the drawing room-styled bar today is less of a barman than a living legend, and trained under the very man who served Fleming these now immortal – and still lethal – drinks.

Apparently both Connery, and later Pierce brosnan, came here to celebrate winning the bond role with a well-earned drink; you can guess which one.

4.Les Ambassadeurs

‘The scent and smoke of a casino are nauseating at three in the morning,’ goes the famous opening sentence of the first James bond novel. Casinos and gambling are a key feature of bond, and it was at les Ambassadeurs that Fleming took his already sufficient blackjack, roulette and gaming skills, and honed them into those of a professional – the level needed for bond, naturally. As wealthy, reckless and utterly discreet as you would expect a casino of this calibre to be – photography is categorically banned – les Ambassadeurs remains a beacon of wild gambling and fabulous moves where modern men test their skills and their mettle, and win or lose, always, always bet big.

5.Lobb

‘We close for tea at four so you’ll have to come back at four thirty’ says John lobb, shoe-maker to st James’s finest. That there are still companies shutting for afternoon tea is as heart-warming to an english person as you can get. We are here because bond, like so many of his non-fictional colleagues in the british military, had his shoes custom-made for his needs. Again we are back to Fleming only knowing the best, and thank god for that, for if there’s one thing that the train-jumping, building-scaling, casino-dwelling bond needed, it was a good pair of shoes. like Turnbull & Asser, discretion is less a choice than a way of life, and finding stories about Fleming and Connery’s custom is tough, but rest assured that both went away happy and very well shod.

T h e M AY FA I R M A g A z I n e

027

FEATURE

‘memorial tablets’. initially overseen by the Society of arts, the idea was conceived in Parliament and designed to celebrate the link between a person and a building. a writer in The Times got it about right in 1873 when he wrote that the plaques would, ‘make our houses their own biographers.’

Since the scheme’s inception, more than 850 plaques have been unveiled, though not all of them were blue and not all of them have survived. as the design of the plaques evolved, so did the London landscape, but such is the robust nature of the city’s architecture that more than 80 per cent of the plaques ever made adorn buildings that still stand today. to be considered for a blue plaque, you need to have been deceased for 20 years (to allow public opinion of you to properly mature), and the building with which you are associated must still be there. nominated figures must also be considered ‘eminent by a majority of their own profession’ and ‘have made an important contribution to human welfare or happiness.’ it’s a pleasingly broad definition which not only prevents the blue plaque scheme from becoming a macabre map of miscreants and criminals, but it allows for everyone from explorers to rock musicians to be in with a chance. Few would disagree that Jimi hendrix made an important contribution to happiness in his day – and that’s why you can now stand outside number 23 Brook Street, gaze up at a blue plaque and know that 43 years ago the legendary guitarist was ensconced within making (noisy) musical history. ‘it’s pretty pokey in there,’ said a former friend of hendrix when the apartment was opened up for a temporary exhibition in 2010, but size clearly doesn’t matter when it comes to musical greatness: george Frideric handel – he of Water music fame – once lived next door.

‘We're always on the lookout for nominations,’ says harrison. ‘there aren’t as many plaques to women as there are men but we’ve got plaques planned for some female novelists and singers this year. the scheme is all about honouring those who were pioneers and trailblazers.’ innovators like this are remembered all over mayfair thanks to the blue plaque scheme: from Pg Wodehouse at 17 Dunraven Street near marble arch to motoring pioneer Charles Rolls, whose offices were at 14-15 Conduit Street.

Other highlights of the trail include plaques which mark the former lodgings of trendsetting Regency fashion leader Beau Brummell (4 Chesterfield Street); writer William Somerset maugham (6 Chesterfield Street) and horatio Lord nelson, who lived – at different times – at both 147 and 103 new Bond Street.

Conjuring up evocative snapshots of the innumerable interesting lives that have been lived out in the area, the blue plaques romantically link the passer-by with the past. French King Charles X once bounded through that doorway at 72 South audley Street, you know. and this window at 19 Curzon Street, once gazed through by Benjamin Disraeli – was this where the then-Prime minister would look across mayfair and think up new insults for his political sparring partner, William gladstone?

With such important history at stake, it’s reassuring to know that english heritage takes its blue plaques very seriously indeed. even if you were to unearth evidence of elvis Presley having secretly lived in your loft, that nice blue plaque would be a long time in coming – if it came at all. it’s a process that typically takes around five years from proposal to unveiling, and only around one in every eight nominations makes it through.

‘The plaques conjure up evocative snapshots of the innumerable interesting lives that have been lived out in the area’

E

LONDON CO UN ER AT C

WILLIAM SOMERSET

IL

GR

Charles Rolls 14 & 15 Conduit Street

MAUGHAM 1874-1965 Novelist and playwriter lived here 1911-1919

G EN

LISH

HERIT AG

CITy COU ON NC ND IL O L

Horatio LORD NELSON 1758-1805 lived here in 1798

E

JIMI HENDRIX 1942-1970 Guitarist and Songwriter lived here 1968-1969

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

029

On the

Blue Plaque Trail

Mike Peake looks at the little blue signs that make up Mayfair’s real-life history book Mayfair at 9aM on a wet, windy morning is no place to linger. Dodging fellow commuters and the leaves whipped up from one of W1’s many parks and gardens, it’s usually a case of head down – not up – and those curious blue plaques sporadically dotted above the doors of dozens of Mayfair addresses go largely unnoticed.

With spring and summer around the corner, however, there’s really no excuse for giving them such short shrift. Why not make 2012 the year that you keep an eye open for these alluring little portals to the past?

Mayfair is awash with blue plaques – there were more than 40 at the

last count. for an area little more than a kilometre square, it’s an astonishing amount – and proof, were any needed, that buildings of historical significance can be found around these parts at almost every turn. ‘the number in Mayfair is quite remarkable,’ says Ellen Harrison at English Heritage, custodians of the blue plaque scheme since 1986. ‘and there are some very interesting ones, too, from plaques outside the flat that Jimi Hendrix once lived in to the one at the former home of robert Peel, who helped set up the modern police force. it’s a fantastic mix.’ the blue plaques started life in 1863 as what were then known as

GR

King Charles 72 South Audley Street

TE EA

O N D ON C O RL UN C

IL

BEAU BRUMMELL 1778-1840

Leader of Fashion lived here Benjamin Disraeli 19 Curzon Street

Illustration: Mai Osawa

are you feeling

loved?

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

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

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

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

CLUB THE

INTERVIEW

My

DaviD LinLey Owner of Linley – Bespoke furniture makers

May fa I R

DaviD LinLey has been at the forefront of London’s luxury bespoke furniture design since the early 1980’s, when he launched his first shop on the new King’s Road.

Since then, his designs and artistic vision for elegant but functional furniture and cabinets have made the name Linley a byword for excellence and quality. as such, the first Linley outlet was formally opened by Sir Roy Strong, Director of the v&a museum, who boldly proclaimed that ‘Linley’s furniture will become the antiques of the future.’ today, as i sit down with Linley in the second of his shops, situated on albermarle Street, it’s quite clear that the designer and craftsman has lost none of his passion. i asked him how the business has changed over the last 25 years, since he began his odyssey in to cabinet making.

‘When i founded the business, our focus was mainly on bespoke and custom made furniture and this remains the Dna of our business,’ he says. ‘however, we now offer retail furniture and accessories collections which are available from both of our London shops and our concession at harrods.’

So where did the inspiration to open a shop come from? ‘Well in 1985, we showcased a small collection of furniture at Christie’s [the fine art auction house] inspired by a recent trip to venice. it was certainly a seminal moment back then for the business, especially given what Sir Roy Strong said about our furniture - hopefully time will tell if he is proved right!’

Looking through the current collection, i’m keen to find out if Linley thinks there is one particular defining piece of design, which he feels typifies the ‘Linley’ style.

‘We recently created a desk, called the Riviera Desk, which epitomises everything i love about furniture,’ he says. ‘it is sleek, sophisticated but

highly complex, concealing numerous intricately hidden secret drawers. a true feat of traditional craftsmanship but contemporary and striking at the same time.’ the theme of the hidden compartment features on a number of Linley’s pieces, which stems from a chance encounter in his childhood. ‘When i was a small boy, my grandmother challenged me to find a secret drawer in a bureau which she treasured. i couldn’t understand how it was possible to conceal something so cleverly, so resolved to find out how. this was really when my interest in woodworking began.’

So why was mayfair the perfect place for his second store?

‘Well mayfair is really in the heart of London and it was important for us to be centrally located,’ he says. ‘i also love the area; although it is the home to many global, established luxury brands, it has managed to retain its charm, idiosyncrasy and heritage. it’s really London past and London present – the heart that beats!’

Linley cites the Royal academy, book dealers heywood hill, based on Curzon Street and Jermyn Street’s Sladmore gallery as some of his favourite mayfair haunts, as well as greens Restaurant, Le Caprice and in particular, ‘breakfast at Claridge’s’ as some of his preferred local eateries.

Recently, Linley’s career has turned full circle, when in addition to his shops and a new interior design service, which the business offers, he became the Chairman of Christie’s UK, a role that has definitely allowed him to indulge his passion for the designs of the past. ‘i often liken Christie’s to a river of art - everyday something new and utterly unique and wonderful flows by on its journey through the ages,’ he says. ‘i feel privileged to witness such special moments. i do indeed have a passion for designs of the past, but look to them for inspiration in creating designs for the future.’

Linley, 46 Albemarle Street, London W1S 4JN (020 7290 1410; www.davidlinley.com)

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

031

Mayfair & St James’s

News

From exquisite exhibits to a jazz tribute to the Roaring Twenties, we bring you the best places to explore this month

The metaphysics of stone Six stone heads will keep watch over Berkeley Square this spring. The dramatic group of carvings, weighing up to three tonnes each and sourced from a disused quarry on the side of a huge dormant volcano in central Italy, will be grouped in a circle and put on display until April to all those passing through the park. Carved from naturally weathered boulder blocks billions of years old, notable artist Emily Young has deliberately left parts of the sculptures raw and untouched to demonstrate the effects of nature and time.

Berkeley Square, W1. 7 February – 25 April Fine Art Society (www.faslondon.com)

All that jazz

A royal delight Lose yourself in a one-off performance of Prokofiev’s Romeo & Juliet at the Mayfair Curzon. Filmed live from the Royal Opera House, it’s been one of the Royal Ballet’s signature works since its premiere in 1965, popular all over the world. Choreographer Kenneth MacMillan captures the tragic story of the star crossed lovers with captivating sequences, and Nicholas Georgiadis’s earthy Renaissance costumes bring the performance to life.

Mayfair Curzon, 38 Curzon Street, W1J. Thursday 22 March 7.30pm. 172 mins, 2 intervals (0330 500 1331; www.curzoncinemas.com/cinemas)

Pay tribute to the Roaring Twenties and indulge in a night of classic cocktails and Golden Age jazz in the heart of Mayfair. Set overlooking Hyde Park Corner and the iconic Wellington Arch, the evocative Gin & Jazz night at the Arch Bar revives a heyday of bygone frivolity with a specially mixed Hendricks Gin cocktail or two. This month sees Benoit Viellefon and His Orchestra performing their striking Parisian swing music, and as a nod to the era, the hotel’s executive chef Paul Bates has created a limited edition bar menu including a selection of delicious sharing platters. Not to be missed.

Gin & Jazz at the Arch Bar, InterContinental Hotel, Park Lane, W1.

15 March 8pm-10pm (020 7409 3131; thearchbar@ihg.com) Free entry but reservations are advisable

From Paris with love A collection of rare haute couture images goes on display at Hamiltons Gallery this month. Over the past six years, German-born photographer Cathleen Naundorf has worked on her ‘Un Rêve de Mode’ series, concentrating on six couture houses, Chanel, Dior, Gaultier, Lacroix, Elie Saab and Valentino.

Cathleen, who has taken backstage photographs at Paris fashion shows for Vogue, was offered the opportunity to choose gowns from the couturiers’ archives, and has compiled an outstanding compilation of beautiful images to pay homage to classical dress.

Cathleen Naundorf Un Rêve de Mode Exhibition at Hamiltons Gallery 13 Carlos Place, WIK. 2 March - 31 March (www.hamiltonsgallery.com)

A cut above

Above right to left La Fille en Platre VIII, Dior Collection Summer 2007, 2009 Untitled, Dior Collection Summer 2007, 2007 The Evolution of Fashion I, Dior Collection Winter 2004, Musée d`Histoire Naturelle, Paris, 2010 © Cathleen Naundorf, courtesy of Hamiltons Gallery]

Pamper yourself with a visit to Rossano Ferretti’s exquisite new luxury ‘hair spa’ which has just landed on our Mayfair doorstep. Ferretti, an Italian master with over 20 years’ experience cutting the hair of the cultural elite, brings his unique way of working which he terms ‘The Method’, to the UK. This ensures the way a person’s hair ‘falls’ naturally is respected, to create a style that really suits the wearer. The new salon is located at the former home of Fabergé, and they have happily left all of the dramatic black chandeliers and embossed wallpaper intact – adding to the luxury feel.

Rossano Ferretti Hairspa 17 St. George Street, W1S. (020 7493 0555; www.metodorossanoferretti.com)

Cornish creations

'Carn Les Boel' Oil on canvas, 48" x 48", £8,000

An artist who prefers to paint from life using oils, John Brenton is best-known for capturing the awe-inspiring beauty of the Cornish coastline where he was born and raised. Predominantly a landscape painter, John’s fresh elemental studies of sand and sea have already attracted a large following in Cornwall.

The Panter & Hall Gallery plays host to a stunning collection of his original works until April, the perfect belated Mother’s Day date.

John Brenton at the Panter & Hall Gallery 2012, 21 March – 13 April 27 Bury Street, SW1.

(020 7399 9999; www.panterandhall.com)

T H E M AY FA I R M A G A z I N E

033

Belgravia

News From war-time plays and animal-inspired art to hot new eateries, Belgravia has much to celebrate this mother’s Day

The play is the thing…

Off-piste perfection

a boy who comes back from war in a wooden box is glorified and called a hero. as the funeral plans are made in a small Kent town, his siblings squabble over who he was. a family question whether the fanfare is needed for this heroic martyr in Vera Vera Vera, a blackly comic play that discusses what we are willing to fight for. Directed by Jo mcinnes, and written by actor hayley Squires as part of the Young Writers Festival 2012, this is a moving and poignant story that will have you questioning the way you view your own loved ones.

Following the success of his Soho venture, eminent chef and food writer mark hix has now opened the new hix Belgravia restaurant and a second branch of his award-winning mark’s Bar in the Belgraves hotel. Boasting a cigar garden, as well as bespoke work from artist mat Collishaw, the 80-seater restaurant offers a first-class menu, inspired from mark’s travels around the world. Don’t expect his signature British style – go and expect to have your horizons widened (or at least moved slightly).

Vera Vera Vera Jerwood Theatre Upstairs 22 March - 14 April £20 (020 7565 5000; www.royalcourttheatre.com)

Hix Belgravia and Mark’s Bar 20 Chesham Place, SW1 (020 3189 4850; www.restaurantsetcltd.co.uk)

Antarctic appreciation a landmark concert from the City of London Sinfonia will retrace the extraordinary steps of Captain Scott’s expedition to the South Pole in music, images and words at Cadogan hall. Vaughan William’s haunting Symphony no. 7, ‘Sinfonia antartica’ sets the tone with its eerie female chorus and elaborate percussion section, along with excerpts from his powerful film score of ‘Scott of the antarctic’. the performance will feature projected original photographs from the expedition itself, as well as readings from Scott’s own diary and letters written during his journey. in addition, ‘Seventy Degrees Below zero’, a new piece of music written specifically for the tour by composer Cecilia mcDowall will premiere.

City of London Sinfonia, Conquering the Antarctic Saturday 3 March, 7.30pm From £15 (020 7730 4500; www.cadoganhall.com)

034

Images: Scott Polar Research Institute, Cambridge

Ann Campbell © Nick Meers 2011

Animal magic two very different artists with a shared love of animals are appearing at the Osborne Studio gallery this month. Dutch-born artist hester van Wijngaarden depicts fleeting moments of energy and power with her large canvases of horses and fighting bulls, while award-winning sculptor ann Campbell uses her childhood travels as inspiration for her art, which benefits from both eastern and Western influences. From exotic monkeys to humble rabbits, her sculpture presents her subjects in strong, simplified forms.

Osborne Studio Gallery, 2 Motcomb Street, SW1 20 March to 6 April (www.osg.uk.com)

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

HIRSH L O N D O N

BRIDGE COLLECTION HANDMADE IN PLATINUM

Famous For Engagement Rings www.hirshlondon.com

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

CanaryWharfMar12.indd 1

02/02/2012 15:17

537-BBR-Mayfair-CP-A4-AW-FIN.indd 1

14/02/2012 09:15

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

Albemarle Gallery presents realism and deception the first, excellent deception is by elena and michel gran, whose paintings are executed completely together, synchronized and seamless in the manner of gilbert & george compositions, making it impossible to detect which sections are painted by whom. they also deceive by their mastery of the trompe l’oeil technique and frequent use of metaphor, suggesting a multitude of meanings.

Running concurrently at the gallery will be alexander Klingspor’s highly realistic paintings though, surprisingly, they are not painted from life but from the artist’s visions.

Figurative and painted with precision then peppered with subtle gestures and tensions, they are made all the more powerful by enigmatic titles. each one represents a fleeting, haunting moment, a scene that captivates and invites us to decide the ending. two contrasting but equally compelling styles of work which are guaranteed to have viewers transfixed.

2 March – 24 March (www.albemarlegallery.com)

Courtesy of the Abermarle Gallery

europe’s greatest ceramics and porcelain collection for auction there is an extraordinary story about to be made public via Sotheby’s: one couple, giovanni and gabriella Barilla, descendents of one of the world’s foremost pasta producers, decided to make porcelain their particular passion and developed it into one of the greatest collections in all of europe. that collection will fall under the hammer this month and have buyers clamouring for the exceptional meissen figures, rare groups of Capodimonte and Buen Retiro pieces. amongst the Capodimonte will be The Rat Catchers, modelled by giuseppe gricci (circa 1750) at the height of his talents and featuring excited human figures focused on two scurrying mice, and a very rare, single Vezzi plate in superb condition, which is expected to achieve £30,000-£50,000.

Other keen buyers will be delighted too by the 18th century furniture, 16th century majolica, silver, beautiful Venetian mirrors, paintings and illuminated ‘Books of hours’ which will make up approximately 400 lots from the renowned Barilla residence in geneva.

Above / Capodimonte Group, The Rat Catchers Courtesy of Sotheby’s

14 March (www.sothebys.com)

Q&A with AndreA GAtes, archivist at Messum’s on their Anthony Gilbert exhibit Q: Did Anthony Gilbert design posters for Transport for London?

A: Yes, but his fame developed from his distinctive, bold illustrations for advertising agency J. Walter thompson and magazines such as Vogue, House and Garden and Radio Times.

with the finished work. anthony never had to leave the house.

Q: Is it true that his wife, Ann, was his only model throughout his long career?

A: Yes, all of his figures are ann or are based on her.

Q: How did he cope with producing high-profile images for the likes of Vogue, given his reclusive reputation?

A: his wife ann would collect the clothes from whatever fashion editor had commissioned the illustrations; model the clothes for anthony; then return the clothes to the editor

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

Q: Did his style of work change throughout the decades of his prolific output?

A: his sense of line and pattern are pretty consistent. mostly, you can date his work by the fashions themselves: geometric Vs organic pattern trends throughout the 1970s.

Anthony Gilbert Couple Talking Courtesy of Messum’s

Anthony Gilbert Patterned Lady with Pearls Courtesy of Messum’s

Anthony Gilbert, 14 - 31 March 8 Cork Street, London W1S (020 7437 5545; www.messums.com)

037

Cecil Beaton, Princess Elizabeth at Buckingham Palace, March 1945 © V&A Images

Cecil Beaton by Curtis Moffat, 1930 © V&A Images

eXhibition FoCus: Queen elizabeth ii by CeCil beaton:

A Diamond Jubilee Celebration beaton enjoyed a close relationship with the Queen, leading to exquisitely open photographs. Carol Cordrey discusses the long-awaited Jubilee exhibition

There will be many well-deserved tributes to h.M. The Queen in the coming months, but the V&A’s will undoubtably be one of the most revealing. its collection of Sir Cecil beaton’s photographs, diaries, scrapbooks and letters, embellished by TV and radio recordings, gives us a fascinating close-up of her development from a shy girl to lovely young woman, then a newly-crowned Queen, a contented mother to today’s mature and respected monarch. equally fascinating and unique to this exhibition is the insight it gives us into the collaboration between crown and camera. beaton ensured that the perfect shots were produced with the clear intention of enhancing the reputations of both the royal sitter and the royal photographer. Their special relationship (not the one coined by winston Churchill and revived in the Thatcher-reagan era) was developed by two powerful people sitting on either side of a camera across three decades. born in 1904 (d 1980), beaton was captivated by the glamour and elegance of photographs in his childhood and he set about using a camera from the age of 11 to replicate that style. he was already successful as a portrait photographer to the social elite and the models of Vogue when he took his first step into the role of court photographer at the invitation of the late Queen Mother. his diary, alongside one of the photos reveals that the pose and backdrop were planned theatrically to present an ideal queen in a Fragonardtype composition to emphasise her femininity. Further highly staged photos

Queen Elizabeth II by Cecil Beaton: A Diamond Jubilee Celebration 8 February - 22 April (www.vam.ac.uk)

presented her and King George Vi with the young Princesses elizabeth and Margaret as a wartime family surrounded by the devastation of their home – albeit a palace – following the blitz. Noteworthy, too, is the photo of Princess elizabeth presented as a patriotic young woman signing up for Voluntary Service, not unlike many of her subject peers. when she gave birth to Prince Charles, her mother recommended beaton for the official photographs and he went on to photograph the subsequent three royal babies. he records in his diaries and letters the enormous preparation and efforts undertaken to achieve the ideal royal images, and helps us appreciate that the pressure to do so was probably at its greatest at the Coronation. beaton’s role at that historic event was official portrait photographer at buckingham Palace and the resulting combination of both highly posed as well as more candid images was a triumph.

During the next two decades, beaton became aware of new, artistic trends and competing, young photographers, so his portraits of h.M. The Queen developed a more simple style which presented her as a confident, contented mother and monarch. his last portraits of her in 1968 were for his National Portrait Gallery retrospective and for the new Channel islands stamps. wearing the impressive robes of Sovereign of the Order of the Garter and in others, the plainer Admiral’s boat Cloak, beaton gave us images of her in striking silhouette which earned great respect both for her and for him; a fitting end to a long and successful collaboration.

ART

Cecil Beaton, Queen Elizabeth II with Prince Andrew, 1960 Š V&A Images

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

039

14 Brook Street, London, W1S 1BD. T. +44 (0) 20 7629 8811 www.halcyondays.co.uk

ART

PRize LoT: BONHAMs

a hero’s farewell a century after his ill-fated expedition, captain Scott is commemorated at Bonham’s Polar Sale

Particulars: ExpEctEd ValuE (itEm): £100,000 - £150,000 ExpEctEd ValuE (auction): £800,000 EstimatEd RangE: £300 - £150,000 no. of lots: 190 placE: Bonhams, Montpelier Street, Knightsbridge datE: 2pm, 30 March 2012

Image: courtesy of Bonhams

Set to coincide with the 100th anniversary of captain Robert Scott’s expedition to the South Pole, Bonhams are holding a Polar sale. one of the archetypal acts of British heroism, captain Scott has provided the star sale this month – a farewell letter which Scott wrote as he lay dying on 16 march 1912, when he realised that he and his team would not survive. the letter was found on his body in a tent months later in november 1912.

Written to financier Sir edgar Speyer, honorary treasurer of the fund-raising committee for the ill-fated trip, the poignant script expresses Scott’s great concern for his family and the families of his companions and asks that the nation provide for their future. ‘i fear we must go... but we have been to the Pole and we shall die like gentlemen – i regret only for the women we leave behind. if this diary is found it will show how we stuck by our dying companions and fought this thing out to the end’. once the contents of his letter became known the outpour of public sympathy was overwhelming, resulting in enough money being raised to not only to pay off the expedition’s debts but also to settle annuities on the families of those who died and to endow the Scott Polar Research institute. (www.bonhams.com)

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

041

ART

PRize LoT: CHRISTIE’S

A Modern BritAin Bring a little 20th century patriotism into your home with the best of British

the late Sir Kyffin Williams earned his reputation through his idiosyncratic use of the palette knife, carving out rugged landscapes of his beloved north Wales. By all accounts, he was both a pillar of the establishment and a thorn in its side, due to his outspoken criticisms of the contemporary arts scene. Regarded as one of the defining British artists of the twentieth century, Sir Kyffin leads the increasingly popular collectors field at Chrisitie’s this month, in a sale featuring works from the very best British artists from the last century. the collection, featuring striking landscapes through to a whimsical illustration of a truly British fish and chip shop, includes a stunning variety of still-life pictures. Providing the perfect opportunity for collectors of every calibre, estimates start from just £600. (www.christies.com)

PArticulArs: ExpEctEd ValuE (itEm): £20,000 - £30,000 ExpEctEd ValuE (auction): £700,000 EstimatEd RangE: from £600 no. of lots: c.180 placE: Christie! s, 85 old Brompton Road, South Kensington datE: 10.30am, 22 March 2012

042

Fachwen, Near Llyn Padarn, circa 1950 Sir Kyffin Williams, R.A. (1918-2006) © Christie’s Images Limited 2012

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

Mayfair

the heart of

C O C K TA I L B A R

|

LOUNGE

|

R E S TA U R A N T

|

CHEF’S DINING ROOM

|

ART GALLERY

|

LA CAVE

1 0 L A N C A S H I R E C O U R T N E W B O N D S T R E E T LO N D O N W 1 S 1 E Y + 4 4 ( 0 ) 2 0 7 5 1 8 9 3 8 8 W W W. M E W S O F M AY FA I R . C O M

Art

Prize Lot: sotheby’s

A modern mAgnum opus Own a piece of Pop art history with an outstanding print from a master of the contemporary

SOtheby’S OfferS a very diverse sale this month, with a vast representation of works from eminent artists at their Old master, modern and Contemporary Prints sale. Outstanding prints featured are from the celebrated richard hamilton, who maintains one of the strongest claims to be the inventor of Pop art. the sale follows the memorial exhibition of his portrait by a number of his peers at the national Portrait gallery, following his death last year. hamilton returned to this beautiful still of bing Crosby from the film White Christmas during the 1960s and 1970s, creating variations of the positive and negative photographic image to create different atmospheric effects and textures. expected to realise between £12,000 and £18,000, the earlier variation, ‘i’m Dreaming of a White Christmas’ is also included in the sale. amongst those also featured are rembrandt, Picasso, andy Warhol, with his wonderfully vibrant ‘anniversary Donald Duck’ and ‘Superman’ prints, as well as other works by roy Lichtenstein, Damien hirst and francis bacon. (www.sothebys.com)

pArticulArs: ExpEctEd ValuE (itEm): £12,000 - £18,000 ExpEctEd ValuE (auction): £2,350,000 – £3,300,000 EstimatEd RangE: £2,000 to £250,000 no. of lots: 183 placE: Sotheby! s 34-35 New Bond Street, W1A 2AA datE: 11am, 29 March 2012

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

I’m Dreaming of a Black Christmas, 1971 Richard Hamilton (1922 -2011) © Sotheby’s

045

A fanfare of

2012 is shaping up to be a very impressive year for British Design.

OlIvIa Platt-HePwOrtH investigates why There are many reasons to applaud British design this year. Though the country has been a hothouse for design and craftsmanship for decades, 2012 is the year that both the rich heritage and the bright future will be celebrated side-by-side. a spate of upcoming events, launches and exhibitions will be leading this celebration, including ‘British Design 1948-2012: Innovation in the modern age’ at the V&a museum over the summer, which will glorify over over 60 years of this great country’s love affair with design.

‘Britain has long been a pioneer of new ideas and processes, particularly in the areas of engineering, industrial design and new technologies,’ says Ghislaine Wood, a specialist in 20th century design and co-curator of the exhibition at the V&a. ‘From the introduction of new spinning and weaving machines in the 1780s, through the construction of ships and bridges in the 1840s, to the development of computer codes after the War and the invention of the world-wide-web in the 1980s, inventiveness has always characterised British design. ‘however, over the last 40 years Britain’s design culture has undergone

radical change. It has moved away from manufacturing towards the provision of innovative financial, retail and creative services. British designers have frequently stood at the forefront of change and created some of the most iconic objects, technologies and buildings of the last 60 years,’ says Wood.

This V&a exhibition will serve to highlight the best of contemporary British design. The exhibition will cover 64 years, helpfully bookended from the last Olympic Games held in London in 1948 to the present year.

The museum has brought together over 300 objects, including clothing, to demonstrate how design changed significantly over this period in time.

The exhibition shows how Britain’s designers were influenced by economics, politics and cultural events over this period. To illustrate the shifts in society and consequently in design, the museum has split the exhibition into three distinct sections: tradition and modernity; subversion; and innovation and creativity.

The culmination of these objects in the exhibition highlights that there are facets of our society and economy that are parallel to this traditional ‘make do and mend’ period and to the world today. It also seems clear that

ART

the move away from the disposable culture towards authenticity through crafts and hand-making looks set to continue. today’s designers are standing on the country’s proud legacy of quality craftsmanship by creating and meticulously making desirable objects and attire. a common thread that links many of the designs ‘long-listed’ for this year’s Design of the Year awards is serious attention to quality. ‘the longlist can be described as the barometer of current thinking and appreciation in designs,’ says michael Czerwinski, public programmes manager of Design museum London.

‘We asked 100 industry experts to submit what they consider to be the year’s most successful designs. many of the works emphasise outstanding quality. there is a real shift away from mass consumption and the current trend is to do something properly, using the best materials available and superior manufacturing,’ he says.

Since becoming established five years ago, the Design of the Year awards have become highly esteemed within the industry. the awards comprise of nominations across seven categories, including architecture, digital, fashion, furniture, graphics, product and transport. the list spans various fields, from the Duchess of Cambridge’s wedding dress, designed by Sarah Burton for alexander mcQueen; to the world’s most advanced wheelchair, designed by i imagine. entitled ‘Carbon Black’, the wheelchair allows users greater accessibility due to its light weight and sturdy carbon structure, and each of the aesthetically appealing Carbon Black wheelchairs will be made on a bespoke basis.

But it is not just fashion and products that are being designed this way; other disciplines of design, such as furniture, are also fulfilling the trend. One company that is experiencing increasing interest in its handmade furniture is Soane Britain. Founded by Lulu Lytle and Christopher hodsoll, the company produces 500 exquisitely made re-interpretations of 18th, 19th and 20th century originals alongside new designs.

Soane’s works with craftsman all over the country, utilising traditional skills such as saddlery, cabinet making, iron forging, glass blowing and bronze casting to create high-end furniture for homes, restaurants and hotels.

‘Soane’s was founded on the principle of British production, manufacturing and workshops across a variety of disciplines to create objects such as leather table tops to the tanning and dyeing of feathers to cabinet making,’ says co-owner Lulu Lytle.

‘We collaborate with some of the country’s most highly skilled craftsman because of the high quality that they achieve,’ says Lytle. ‘Last year we invested in the last rattan workshop in england and are working with the last three weaver’s to ensure the lasting legacy of the skill for the country,’ she says.

‘British Design 1948-2012: Innovation in the Modern Age’ will open at the Victoria & Albert Museum on 31 March.

Opposite, left to right / ‘God Save the Queen’, poster promoting the Sex Pistols, designed by Jamie Reid, 1977 © Jamie Reid, Photograph by Victoria and Albert Museum ‘Calyx’, furnishing fabric, designed by Lucienne Day, 1951, manufactured by Heal & Son Ltd Courtesy of the Estate of Lucienne Day / Photograph © Victoria and Albert Museum ‘ Torsion’ chair, designed and made by Brian Long, 1971 with kind permission of Brian Long Photograph © Victoria and Albert Museum

Above, left to right / Children crossing sign, designed by Margaret Calvert and Jock Kinneir for the Ministry of Transport, 1964 © Margaret Calvert ‘Even to spark out now would be no pain’, poster promoting the ‘Anti-Art Fair’, with a portrait of Trojan, designed by John Maybury, 1986 Courtesy of John Maybury Photograph © Victoria and Albert Museum Carbon Black Wheelchair I-Imagine ‘Double-D’ mini dress, designed and made by Foale & Tuffin, 1966 Photograph © Victoria and Albert Museum

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

the company recently partnered with Claridge’s hotel in mayfair to realise the installation of 20 of its handmade brown leather ‘Crillon’ chairs for its guest rooms. One of the company’s most popular designs, the parts of the chairs are made in different workshops across the country, before being carefully assembled. the result is an enduringly fashionable and functional piece.

But showing the side-step to these traditional skills and beliefs, the V&a’s exhibition will also look at the prevailing shift in design in the 1950s and 1960s. the groundswell of creativity came from radical young people not from the traditional, established institutions. it was during this time that a new generation of designers sought to challenge common values and beliefs with forward thinking works. this included the launch of the mini by the British motor Corporation, a car that went on to become a much-loved icon of the Sixties. the opening of stores such as terence Conran’s ‘habitat’ and Barbara hulanicki’s ‘Biba’ defied the conventional department store, while the creation of the Polyprop chair 1963 by Robin Day was another design innovation of the Swinging Sixties. the low-cost, mass production-chair was developed to be durable, and typifies the rejection of the ‘solid values’ of the 1950s with the focus being on experimenting with new materials such as plastics; and being able to cheaply manufacture products.

While design was changing rapidly, fashion was certainly not behind, going through several fundamental changes over the decades, reflecting Britain at any given time. ‘the influence of Britain’s art schools has been huge across the creative industries and design sector, and particularly in the area of fashion design’ says Wood.

‘British fashion designers, many of them graduates of art schools, have come to define a new creativity and technical brilliance. alexander mcQueen, John galliano and hussein Chalayan have transformed the way that we understand fashion. there is also a deeply subversive spirit in much British fashion which can be linked back to the creativity of Punk. Westwood has undoubtedly been immensely influential’ she says. though society may have changed over the years, particularly from the 1948 Olympics to today, one thing has remained constant: absolute creativity is paramount to British design. the Design museum’s ‘Design of the Year’ exhibition is on until 15 July. the Design of the Year 2012 winner will be announced at an awards night held on 24 april.

047

Northampton • England

Makers of the finest English shoes since 1879

U.K. 25 Royal Exchange, London EC3 New Shop - 92 Jermyn Street, London SW1 69 Jermyn Street, London SW1 20-21 Burlington Arcade, London W1 25 Colmore Row, Birmingham B3

FRANCE 14, Rue Chauveau-Lagarde, La Madeleine, 75008 Paris U.S.A. 7 West 56th Street, New York, NY 10019 www.crockettandjones.com

C&J Rex.indd 1

14/9/11 16:49:53

Watch

N ews Classic timepieces to covet now and enjoy for a lifetime

ONe tO watch

expert opinion

every month, we choose our favourite watch from the newest models. march’s watch of the month comes courtesy of Rolex

Robin Swithinbank, editor of ‘Calibre’ watch magazine, talks about the state of the british watch industry what have been the biggest changes in the industry in the last 20 years? the watch industry has enjoyed a period of unprecedented growth, but the British have been relatively slow to pick up on it. We’re starting to see signs that the illustrious history of British watchmaking may yet enjoy a 21st century revival, with a number of promising new brands popping up. there’s great kudos all over the world in being a British luxury brand, so native watch companies have a great platform on which to build. expect to see the word ‘London’ appearing on more watch dials in the future.

with its numerous innovative watchmaking features, the Yacht-Master II model is the epitome of Rolex’s creative force and technology

Yacht Master II, £16,770, Rolex available at harrods

home-grown talent Switzerland may be the undisputed home of the fine watchmaking industry, but we have decided to pay homage to a brand whose roots lie a little closer to home. inspired by the endeavours of the London clockmaker george graham, a man responsible for the master clock at greenwich Royal Observatory which defined time for most of the 18th century, graham-London has been flying the flag for modern British watchmaking since it regrouped in 1995.

Fitting for a firm whose namesake gave us the chronograph, dead-beat cylinder escapement and the mercury pendulum, graham-London’s Swordfish Booster iris is as much an engineering masterpiece as a product to tell the time. With a steel case formed through plasma reactions in a vacuum, and a nanometre-scale coating developed exclusively for graham, the watch’s surface refracts light to change colour at every angle.

who are the most important brands in british watch making?

For high-end watchmaking, the name Roger Smith is respected and revered by collectors all over the world. Smith was mentored by the brilliant, late george Daniels and plies his trade from an atelier on the isle of man. he produces fewer than 30 pieces a year, some unique and made to order, hand-crafting every part and creating watches that are as horologically pure as anything made anywhere else in the industry. which british brand do you tip for imminent success?

Schofield. Founder giles ellis only launched his first watch at Salon QP last november, but he generated the kind of buzz big brands set aside Olympic-sized budgets to achieve. ellis is a quality obsessive, and his 2011 allocation of watches sold out in a flash. Baited breath for what he’ll do this year and beyond.

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

049

a truly

English affair

AnnAbel HArrison meets Nick English, one half of the dynamic English brothers and co-founder of British watch brand Bremont ThE ENgiNE purrs, revs and roars into action and before i know it, i’m soaring through the air, 1,000 feet above the English countryside (Epping Forest and Chelmsford, to be exact). i’m not in a Boeing 747 or an Airbus 380, though – my preferred, and standard, method of airborne travel but one passenger of two in a tiny, toy plane which is, i am told, an rV4. initial trepidation at travelling in what, quite frankly, has less interior space than a Mini is swiftly overtaken with the thrill of feeling like a character in Top Gun (although more like goose than Maverick). The pilot expertly steers us to the optimum cruising height and asks me, casually, over the headset if i’d like to drive for a bit. After a moment’s hesitation, i take over control and experience the sheer joy of feeling the plane dip and tilt exactly as i command, before the pilot resumes control to flip us over into a few, 360º barrel rolls.

This is but a glimpse into the life of a Bremont brother – Nick, this time round (although i had met

the equally charming giles at salonQp in November). i’d like to say that i was composed enough to conduct my interview with Nick whilst airborne but unfortunately the noise was prohibitive and instead we chatted in the cosy squadron at North Weald Airfield.

From their names to their demeanour, via their watch brand and personal passions, the English brothers are British through and through. Bremont has a story to tell too, and a surprisingly young one at that; its watches are gracing the manly, homegrown wrists of hugh Laurie, Liam Neeson and Orlando Bloom, just ten years after the company’s journey began, and five years after their watches were actually being sold. Nick explains that from the offset the brothers wanted to make beautifully crafted and engineered pilots’ watches of such a high quality that ‘you could not find a better made watch [in that £3,000 4,000 price range]’.

COLLECTION

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

051

A love of flying, watches and all things mechanical has been in the English blood for generations, inherited

by Nick and Giles from their late father Euan, who died in 1995 when the vintage aircraft he was flying crashed.

Nick deems this ‘the tipping point in life, when you have to think about what you really want to do’. This tragic accident was followed by Nick and Giles crash-landing on French land because of a rough-running engine and bad weather. In a serendipitous turn of events, the farmer who offered them refuge from the authorities and a bed for the night was a retired pilot and gifted engineer, surrounded in his farm by old wall clocks in various states of restoration.

The farmer’s name was Antoine Bremont and although the company’s name is French in origin, Bremont retains a proudly British backbone. ‘There’s this truly incredible history of British watch making’, Nick says, with characteristic English enthusiasm, ‘and for people to understand and appreciate what you’re doing is fantastic, so although people like to play it down, it’s always nice to receive awards’. Those in question were from Walpole, the prestigious protector and promoter of the British luxury industry, which saw potential and named Bremont a

Brand of Tomorrow in 2007 and, the following year, Best Emerging British Luxury Brand.

Their customers since these accolades have turned out to be, by and large, people who recognise the effort and passion that goes into watch-making and who have an interest in well-engineered products.

Is there a stereotypical Bremont owner? ‘What’s interesting,’ says Nick, ‘is that it’s not all about money.

A lot of our guys work in The City in high paid jobs and they will save up and buy one of our watches’. With a love of mechanical watches, often Bremont won’t be their first horological purchase; they may have been given a TAG or Omega when younger but since, ‘they have done their research and want to wear something that’s different, that separates them from the rest of the pack’.

The purchase may well also become an investment; Nick tells me that some of his watches that sold for £6,500 three years ago are now going for as much as £10,000 and that in 2012, the brand will produce only 3,000 timepieces, making them yet more sought after. ‘We’re not a flashy brand, not showy. It’s for people who like the understated feeling of having

‘There is this truly incredible history of British watch making’

COLLECTION

something special on their wrist – i think the car equivalent would be more maserati than Ferrari’. the english brothers are as serious as they are jovial and when i ask next what the biggest challenge has been to date, he replies – straight-faced – ‘working with my brother’. Cracking into a smile, he adds mischievously, ‘i won’t go through the list of ideas i’ve come up with because it’ll put him to shame’. ‘We’re very diplomatic and both involved with all the big decisions’.

Challenges have come in the form of the technical – ‘in terms of procuring parts of this industry, especially when you’re doing a lot yourself and you have lots of suppliers’ – and the financial; ‘the competition is spending a huge amount of money on marketing but we are a smaller brand, without a Richemont behind us’. this is where unofficial ambassadors are worth their weight in gold. On the adventure side of things, Bremont works very closely with world-record climber Jake meyer, Olympic skier graham Bell, world-champion free diver Sara Campbell, polar explorer Ben Saunders and adventurer Bear grylls. ‘there’s a great synergy and

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

we appeal to those kind of guys, who show that you can use one of our watches in [extreme] conditions and it still works’. Charlie Boorman ‘batters them around because he’s always falling off a motorbike’ but, testament to their endurance, he hasn’t managed to destroy one (yet).

For those who aren’t fortunate, or mad, enough to spend most of their waking hours completing deathdefying or record-breaking feats, a Bremont watch is still suitable wristwear. ‘We wanted to produce watches which you could wear to the boardroom but also go off and do amazing stuff at the weekend – windsurfing, up everest, skydiving, whatever you want’. indeed.

For nick and giles, ‘whatever you want’ seems to be the lives they are living, revolving around aviation, engineering, time-keeping and family heritage. my afternoon at the airfield ends with a smile and a wave from nick as he hops into his plane to ‘drive’ back to the office in henley. What a commute. i have no doubt that euan english and antoine Bremont would be immensely proud of the Bremont brand and of the english brothers, and that their part in the legacy is only just beginning.

053

COLLECTION

Baselworld 2012 the watch industry’s equivalent of the trend-setting fashion weeks, Baselworld showcases the newest creations from the world’s most prestigious brands

if you plan on visiting the Swiss town of Basel one spring, check the dates of the annual Baselworld event first. if you don’t you will almost certainly struggle to find somewhere to stay. for eight days each year, Basel’s population almost doubles in size as more than 100,000 visitors from 100 countries descend on the world’s largest watch and jewellery exposition. the mayfair magazine will be among the 3,000 media representatives at this year’s event and with more than 1,800 companies from the watch, jewellery and precious-stone industry showcasing their latest collections, choosing our favourite innovations won’t be easy. We’re looking forward to seeing omega’s Seamaster aqua terra golf – a refined piece with distinctive green elements on its dial – and pequignet’s paris Royal Red gold, which boasts an attractive power reserve indicator.

054

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

Swiss movement, English heart

C9 HARRISON JUMPING HOUR Limited Edition ÂŁ1150.00

Swiss made automatic / movement: ETA 2824-2 - 25 jewel modified jumping hour complication JJ001 / 200 piece limited edition / Hand-finished case / Louisiana alligator strap / Diameter: 43mm E XC LU S I V E LY AVA I L A B L E AT

ChristopherWard_Mayfair.indd 1

christopherward.co.uk

17/02/2012 10:52

www.bachet.fr

Jewellery

N ews glamorous and seductive pieces to cherish for a lifetime

expert Opinion

CuttiNg edge having captivated the world with his jewellery collections for more than 25 years, theo Fennell continues to excite customers with his quirky wit and original conceptions, as shown through his latest collection

Jouster is made with a subtle mosaic of pavéset stones that hint at the signs and shapes of antiquity but the brilliance of its colours and the liquid designs give the pieces an extraordinarily contemporary look. Again, theo Fennell has combined the bold and the subtle, the old and the new, to make works of art you can wear.

Rebecca Hawkins Head of Design at boodles

it is difficult to pick a favourite gemstone. i am most attracted to blues, such as tanzanite, star sapphires and aquamarines. my favourite would have to be Paraiba tourmaline, the colour of a clear pool of water on a perfect summer’s day. if i could choose anything from the Boodles’ inventory, it would be the Firebird bracelet.

Ruby and diamond medium Fleur de Lys shield pendant and chain set with pavé ruby rondell, £13,750 (www.theofennell.com)

the art of diamonds Comprising seven unique pieces, with prices starting at around £100,000, ‘Danger’ is the exciting new collection by British designer Jack Du Rose. Du Rose’s rise to fame in the jewellery industry is as romantic and inspiring as his latest collection: he came to London with the single-minded purpose of being commissioned by Stephen Webster, a dream which then became reality.

Subsequently, in 2005, Du Rose received a mystery call requesting him to design and make the master pattern for a life-size reproduction of a platinum and diamond-encrusted human skull. he worked 100-hour weeks for three months before overcoming the challenge and it wasn’t until he had finished that he discovered that it was Damien hirst who had commissioned the £64 million work.

Like Stephen Webster and Shaun Leane, Du Rose considers his works to be as much artwork as they are jewellery; each piece comes with its own bell jar and ebony display case, which locks with a gold and diamond scorpion-shaped key.

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

my designs are inspired by a variety of things: textiles and patterns, illustration and photography, poetry and, of course, nature. the less tangible and unstructured elements of nature, such as water, are reoccurring themes. elegance and balance are the most important factors, whether the design is a minimal daytime piece or an elaborate, dramatic one off design.

Boodles prides itself on being a transparent company. it is important that all our diamonds are purchased from legitimate sources and not involved in funding conflict in any way.

We’re planning an exciting new collection for may 2012. it will have an exotic feel with an eclectic mix of motifs and influences. it incorporates fresh and unusual colour combinations as well as an interesting conceptual thread linking the individual designs. (www.boodles.com)

057

the

Jewels in our crown

Britain’s stamp on the jewellery world is elegantly eclectic; our thriving industry champions renowned stalwarts such as Garrard and Boodles, ‘diamond geezer’ Stephen Webster, and Solange Azagury-Partridge and Shaun Leane, two of the most exciting new designers on the scene. OLIVIA SHARPE reports

Garrard Boodles

Although unable to compete with Garrard for ‘the world’s oldest jeweller’ title, the family-owned company follows closely behind with a 200-year-old legacy, making it one of the most established of British jewellery brands. Embodying Boodles’ ethos of producing classic and elegant pieces, the Tanzanite and Vintage collections are truly exquisite, revealing the extent of head of design Rebecca Hawkins’ love of all things blue and sparkling.

Princess-cut Tanzanite shimmer ring in platinum with 12 brilliant cut diamonds suspended from a diamond set bezel, £52,000.

Tanzanite Milky Way necklace, from a selection, Vintage heart-shaped sapphire and diamond earrings, £35,000 All Boodles (www.boodles.com)

There is no need for an introduction to the royal jeweller. Despite its traditional heritage and status as creators of the Crown Jewels, the British jewellery house’s forward-thinking approach to its branding is emphasised through its innovative Creative Director, Stephen Webster.

This magnificent ‘Fire of London’ couture necklace, created by Webster for Garrard, is one of Garrard’s most iconic pieces, worn by British icon Kate Moss in 2009.

Fire of London couture necklace in white-gold and diamonds, only available to order.

Georgina Chapman for Garrard feather silver diamonds and blackened silver earrings, £1,950 Star and Garter ring from the Grace collection, £5,500 All Garrard (www.garrard.com)

COLLECTION

Shaun Leane Like any soon-to-be top designer, Shaun Leane began his career working alongside revered figures such as the late alexander mcQueen, creating provocative and iconic catwalk jewellery. inspired by this high-profile collaboration, Leane set out to create his own masterpieces; launching his eponymous collection in 1999, he successfully created a new genre of jewellery with his award-winning collections, merging poetry, history and sentiment with a sense of eternity and preciousness. the darkly romantic Blackthorn collection marks this fusion.

Silver cluster ring with black pearl and black spinel, £325. Large silver thorn pendant with black spinel leaves and black pearl cluster, £445 Both Shaun Leane (www.shaunleane.co.uk)

Solange Azagury-Partridge it comes as no surprise that Solange began her infamous journey to jewellery stardom from a small boutique in the heart of London’s notting hill. here, in the ideal creative environment, Solange led the way forward with unique and quirky designs, each exemplifying her playful imagination and fantastical individualism. She was also handpicked by tom Ford to be creative director of Boucheron from 2001 to 2004.

Diamond Hotlips 18-carat blackened white-gold and diamonds, £15,000. Mathemagical bracelet 18-carat, white-gold and diamonds, £140,000. Mish mash ring 18-carat, blackened white gold diamonds and sapphires, £25,600 All Solange Azagury-Partridge (www.solange.co.uk)

Stephen Webster madonna, Sir elton John, Kate moss… these are just a handful of celebrity names who have fallen head over heels for Stephen Webster’s iconic designs, making him one of the most influential British designers of the noughties. the underworld of the sinister intent of femme fatales has set the overall tone of his ‘murder She Wrote’ glam-rock collection, every piece concealing a deep and deadly secret; the Black diamond crucifix earrings reveal dagger-sharp pointed ends.

Alchemy in the UK flag signet ring set in black rhodiumplated sterling silver with Union Jack design, £225 Murder She Wrote chandelier couture earrings set in 18-carat white gold with blue sapphires and white diamonds, £13,550 Both Stephen Webster (www.stephenwebster.com)

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

059

COLLECTION

4

1

2

5

3 6

11

TheBrit

Brigade

7

Defined by sophistication and timelessness, it’s no wonder that the demand for British brands, like London-founded Rolex, has defied the recession

10

9

8

1 Bank lid-over attaché case, £2,166, ettinger (available in harrods, Fortnum & mason and harvey nichols) 2 Croco travel pass holder, £84, ettinger (as before) 3 Croc golf ball tube, £75, Daines and hathaway (www.dainesandhathaway.com) 4 Classic braces, £45, Budd Shirt makers (3 Piccadilly arcade) 5 mississippi croc golf accessory wallet, £43, Daines and hathaway (as before) 6 18-carat rose-gold Parliament watch, from a selection, Dent London (www.dentlondon.com) 7 Bladon black 48 hour bag, £1,400, Dunhill (www.dunhill.com) 8 Silverstone tourbillograph gold, £25,000, graham London, (available at harrods and Selfridges) 9 Renaissance, from a selection, Speake-marin (www.speake-marin.com) 10 Cosmograph Daytona, £19,670, Rolex (available at harrods, Selfridges and Watches of Switzerland) 11 Classic umbrellas, £125 each, Budd Shirt makers (as before)

060

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

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

FIRST

Lady

Photographer:

Elizabeth Gibson Fashion:

Charlie Moore

Crepe jacket, £375; silk blouse, £240, both by Red Valentino at Harvey Nichols (020 7235 6707).

Silk pencil skirt, £390, by Reem Juan (www.reemjuan.com).

Earrings, £100; matching ring, £130, by Kenneth Jay Lane (www.atelier-mayer.com)

Wool dress with silk underskirt, from £770, Marni (020 7245 9520). Earrings, £129,

by Aris Geldis at Fenwick (020 7629 9161).

Ring stylist’s own. Leather bag, £1,650, by Victoria Beckham at Sefridges (www.selfridges.com)

Silk dress, £1,080, Gucci (020 7235 6707) Leather heels, £408, Marni (020 7245 9520) Earrings and ring stylist’s own.

Dress, £525, by Paule Ka at Harrods (0845 605 1234). Sunglasses, £179, by Burberry at Sunglasses Hut (0844 204 0860). Hat, £165, by Emma Fielden (www.emmafielden.co.uk).

Satin gloves, £35, by Cornelia James (www.corneliajames.com)

Silk crepe dress, £1,120 by Alexander McQueen at Matches (020 7487 5400). Lace head piece, £330, made to order from Piers Atkinson (www.piersatkinson.com). Lace gloves, £35, by Cornelia James (www.corneliajames.com). Earrings, £100, by Kenneth Jay Lane (www.atelier-mayer.com)

Her: Silk playsuit, £1,850; matching kimono, £325, both by Temperley London (020 7229 7957). Earrings, £115, by Anton Heunis at Fenwick (020 7629 9161) Ring stylist’s own.

Him: Suit, £579, BOSS Black (020 7554 5700). Cotton shirt, £99; silk tie, £75; silk pocket square, £35, all Thomas Pink (020 7498 3882). Leather belt, £79, by BOSS Black (020 7554 5700)

MAkE uP: Amanda Wright, using Alpha H HAiR: James Langan using L’Oréal Professionnel MOdELS: Carly at Profile and dallas at MOT

162 NEW BOND STREET LONDON W1S 2UG WWW.SOLANGE.CO.UK

Runwild Dec11.indd 1

09/12/2011 10:51

FASHION

Coveted couture having built a reputation upon Savile Row tailoring, one of London’s only remaining authentic couture houses, Catherine Walker & Co. is commemorating its 35th anniversary this year. Relatively unknown until the 1980’s when Princess Diana brought the brand to the world’s attention, the company are now celebrating a new era of their design in their S/S 12 collection released this month. also look out for Walker’s exquisite ‘elvis’ dress in ‘Ballgowns: British glamour since 1950’ at the V&a (19 may - 6 January 2013), a favourite of the late Princess. (www.catherinewalker.com)

Her

By ELLE BLAKEMAN ANd KAtiE richArdsoN

Silken favours Liberty have joined the jubilee party by creating three new ‘Union Jack’ scarves, made from a collage of classic Liberty florals. a quirky nod to the diamond celebrations, and something to wave at any upcoming processions should you be so inclined.

Liberty London, Union Jack Scarf, £195, Liberty Silken Favours, British Delight Silk Scarf, £135, Liberty (www.liberty.co.uk)

United nations A touch of grace Last year’s wedding served as an excellent reminder of the long-standing connection between the royal family and fashion. this month sees a new book dedicated to centuries of regal trends and stylish personalities, from Louis iX, the shoe aficionado of the Baroque age and elizabeth i’s penchant for virginal white, to the irreproachably elegant styles of grace Kelly and Jordan’s Queen Rania. irresistible reading for anyone interested in fashion, royalty and the lively intersection of both worlds.

Royal Style: A History of Aristocratic Fashion Icons (£24.99) (www.amazon.co.uk)

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

the hervé Léger by max azria bandage dress has become an iconic, ubiquitous statement of style worldwide, and will be celebrated on international Women's Day on thursday 8 march at the London store in Knightsbridge. the event will unfold from 4pm and develop into a glamorous evening affair with champagne, canapés, and a host of other brands to excite guests, including La Diosa jewellery, miller harris luxury fragrances and hair styling and make-up by in Parlour.

To book email events@herveleger.co.uk (places will be allocated on a first-come first-served basis) Hervé Léger, 29 Lowndes Street, SW1X 9HX (020 7201 2590)

071

FASHION AYFAI

s

R

d

M

R

M

ec

oM Men

A night’s tail Savile Row tailor Kilgour has just launched a new range of evening tails inspired by the legendary Fred astaire, keeping up with the current demand for all things vintage (The Artist, Mad Men, The Great Gatsby…). the one-off piece is exceptionally well made, and will impart the wearer with an instant elegance and traditional glamour, with just a touch of drama too.

From £6,000, Kilgour, 8 Savile Row, London W1S 3PE. (www.kilgour.eu)

By ELLE BLAKEMAN

Fox news the merchant Fox is a new online venture from Dragon’s Den tycoon, Deborah meaden, resulting from her passion for things worthy of the ‘made in great Britain’ label. having taken over the Fox Brothers mill, the oldest surviving mill in the country (and strangely enough, the last private company in england to have its own legal tender), meaden set about taking the outstanding cloths and wools that were previously only available to tailors (Saville Row etc, naturally) and turning them into a selection of pieces available directly to the public. We love this Prince of Wales Check cap, made for the brand by Christys’ & Co, which was a design closely associated with the Duke of Windsor – a recommendation if ever there was one.

Prince of Wales Check cap, £120 (www.themerchantfox.co.uk)

Him Grosvenor square Beautiful British brand Smythson have just launched the grosvenor, a men’s range as utterly covetable as you would expect from one boldly taking the name of one of the most established estates in London. this grained-calf leather briefcase is the sleekest way to finish any businessman’s outfit. With smooth gold hardware to lock and several helpful pockets and sections, you will keep your cool at all times.

Brown Grosvenor Computer Case - £1,200 (www.smythson.co.uk)

Points for originality Lotus Originals, the luxury lifestyle brand encompassing everything from executive sports equipment to chic heritage clothing and accessories, is branching out from its previously online-only retail outlet into its first store. Wasting absolutely no time, the brand has certainly gone in at the top, basing themselves in a grade ii-listed building on London’s Regent Street, opening later this month. (www.lotusoriginals.com)

Green suede belt, £118

072

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

ENJOY YOUR VERY OWN WALL OF SOUND The new BeoLab 12 is a fully digital on-wall loudspeaker that produces sensational surround sound in a graceful, minimalist fashion. It is the perfect compliment to any flat-screen or home stereo system.

This revolutionary loudspeaker co-operates with the wall it is placed on, transmitting treble and bass sounds with outstanding precision and depth.

BeoLab 12 features a sculptural design that forms a reassuring wave pattern that beholds powerful capabilities, maximizing every inch of the slim space. Call it the world’s most high-performing optical illusion, because when viewed from the side, this commanding loudspeaker appears even slimmer.

Visit our showroom to experience the spectacular sound of BeoLab12 Bang & Olufsen of Chelsea 147 Kings Road, London SW3 5TX Tel: 020 7376 5222 Email: chelsea@bang-olufsen.co.uk www.bang-olufsen.com/chelsea

bang-olufsen.com

Bang & Olufsen of Chelsea - BeoLab 12 Advert - Place at 100% (297 x 210mm + 3mm Bleed)

Dressing the part Simon Brooke explores how the modern male fashion in Mayfair was born from a heritage of English country pursuits

St JaMES’S Park attracts visitors and Londoners in their thousands every day, whether it’s to feed the ducks, to stroll along the paths or to enjoy a quiet coffee in the park’s café and restaurant. But how many of these visitors realise that they’re walking through what was once a hunting ground of Henry VIII? In 1532, the king acquired this patch of land and replaced the St James’ leper hospital with a deer park. as with so much of Britain, around London the heritage of the historic pastime of hunting can still be seen – or heard – today. after all, the name Soho comes from an ancient hunting cry when even this, the most metropolitan part of the capital, was once a place for field sports.

Centuries on, field sports are healthier than ever. More than a quarter of a million people turned out at some 300 hunts on Boxing Day last year, and around a million take part in shooting sports every year, according to the British association of Shooting & Conservation (BaSC).

Simon Clarke, spokesman for the BaSC says, ‘We’ve seen demand rise for places on shooting courses and activity days for young people and for women. Shooting has become more accessible with the growth of syndicates where individuals club together to rent ground for game shooting and even “roving syndicates” which take a wide range of days, perhaps on a grouse moor in august, partridge in September and Pheasant from October onwards. We’re also hopeful that the clay shooting and target shooting events in the Olympics will help to inspire the next generation.’ the tradition of country sports is most evident in London’s celebrated suppliers of hunting, shooting and fishing equipment. Purdey, for instance, was established in 1814, just a year before the battle of Waterloo and Queen Victoria is recorded as being the owner of a pair of Purdey pistols. a part from the inevitable continual tweaks, the technology of most of the company’s guns, as is the case with other makers, has changed little in over 100 years.

Italian gunmaker and hunting clothing manufacturer Beretta was founded in the 16th century and some of its earliest clients include the government of Venice. But the company feels very much at home in Mayfair and is attracting a younger, more varied clientele as well as the older hunting types.

‘New audiences are discovering the joys of shooting and country sports, we’re finding,’ says tim king, Beretta gallery gunroom manager. ‘they range from hedge fund managers to housewives and they really appreciate the quality and extensive range of our guns and accessories. We know what British customers and visitors to London are looking for. they might have a classic look but our clothing and accessories, just like our guns, are constantly being updated to take advantage of new technology.’

From one of the oldest to among the newest, the success of William &

Son shows that Mayfair’s field sports business is surprisingly dynamic – and open to newcomers. William asprey, a scion of the silverware and jewellery family, founded his eponymous store in Mount Street in 1999. to make one of the company’s fully bespoke guns, the company employs specialist barrel makers, actioners and engravers. the result of their expertise is a work of traditional British artistry, from the beautiful grain brought to life in the carved walnut stock, through to the exquisite detailing of the metalwork and the smoothness of the action. Some 1,000 hours of handcraftsmanship goes into each gun.

For rosie Dixon of country clothing manufacturer Cordings, the enduring appeal of shooting and country sports is clear. ‘It’s about feeling part of a community or a group and it’s a good way of socializing and meeting new people out on the field,’ she says. ‘all ages can do these sports. It’s a hobby that one can enjoy most weekends, depending on the season.’

Holland & Holland was founded in 1835 by one Harris Holland. thought to be a tobacco merchant, so successful was he at shooting in clubs in London and on the Yorkshire grouse moors that he was persuaded by friends to establish his own gun and shooting gear business. In the last fifty years Holland & Holland’s elegant gunrooms, with their polished cabinets and leather covered desks, have been attracting clients from the US, India and the rest of Europe. the fact that the company is owned by Chanel (Purdey is now part of luxury group richemont, owners of Cartier and alfred Dunhill) tells you something about the increasingly chic image of field sports and their clothing and accessories. this smarter, more youthful image will almost certainly be enhanced since the youthful, photogenic Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are fans of country sports.

‘Our clothing is inspired by British tailoring, which has always had a quirky twist,’ says Niels van rooyen creative director at Holland & Holland. this quirkiness and timelessness brings our collections into the 21st century and gives an international appeal. For us, trends are and will always be traditional. We always incorporate natural elements of gun-making, with fine metals, walnut for wood, but it is important to have a contemporary feel to our gifts.’

It’s not just new customers who are emerging as these great British sports enjoy a renaissance – craftspeople are also on the increase. Purdey’s range of tweeds are designed and woven in Scotland and can be bought off the peg or bespoke. ‘as demand grows there’s a resurgence of people seeking to learn traditional tailoring skills,’ says richard Purdey, a director of the company. ‘Likewise the market for bespoke guns continues to attract worldwide interest we’re training young gunmakers in the traditional gunmaking skills.’ Henry VIII would be proud.

‘New audiences are discovering the joys of country sports’

FASHION

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

075

www.boconcept.co.uk

SAVE 20% off exclusive leather sofas

Mezzo sofa save 20% in Santos leather NOW £9427, normal price £11784 · Mata Rug save 25% NOW £396, Normal price £529

Save 20% off your new leather sofa Right now, you can save 20% off Santos leather which is an extra thick leather suitable for big, smooth surfaces and will therefore give your sofa a very exclusive look and feel. Choose between three colours - white, brown or black.

BoConcept TCR · 158 Tottenham Court Road · London W1T 7NH · 0207 388 2447 · tcrlondon@boconcept.co.uk

400_UK_TCR_1-1EffectSofa_CanaryWharf.indd 1

19/2/12 21:54:15

Interiors

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

wall to wall Framing sections of wallpaper adds an elegant, bespoke look to any room, and can work as a feature wall or as an all-over look. this beautiful, creamy-hued textured version from the Bellagio collection at galerie is graceful and sophisticated, injecting a lightly opulent touch to your home.

Wallpaper from the Bellagio collection, £35 per roll, Galerie (www.galeriewallcoverings.com)

ClassiC Vs CoNtemporary - Bathtubs Classic Catchpole & Rye’s beautiful, one–of-a-kind designs are made with the same pouring techniques their foundry has been using in Kent for over 100 years. Originating in the mid-19th century, this Saracen bath is made from 100% cast iron and mounted on ornate feet – this bath will be the highlight of any bathroom.

The Saracen Bath, from £4,200, Catchpole & Rye (www.catchpoleandrye.co.uk)

Contemporary

Finishing touches

add a vibrant splash of colour to your home with this luxurious Scarlet & argent blanket, made by one of Britain’s most prestigious textile mills in Yorkshire. Bold, fluffy and beautifully textured, only the finest natural materials are used. in fact the fabric is so impressive that Prince William even wore the cloth on his wedding day – praise indeed.

Vivid Living Blanket in bright orange or bold pink £145 Soft Lime Dale & Moor Throw £75 (www.scarletandargent.co.uk)

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

this striking 3D-style freestanding bath falls somewhere in the exquisite venn-diagram crossover between art, design and architecture – ideal for modern bathrooms. With a velvety stone-like finish, it is made from ultrahigh tech, very resistant Cristalplant materials, meaning that this piece will remain flawless for years to come – justifying the eye-watering price tag!

The Strip Bath by Aquamass, from £12,716, C.P. Hart (www.cphart.co.uk)

077

Suite DreamS: The Ritz, London The Ritz

The Royal Suite

Innovation underpinned the vision of renowned French hotelier César Ritz when he oversaw the creation of a resplendent property in the heart of Mayfair in 1904. The hotel opened two years later, with luxurious features such as brass beds and en-suites which were unknown to its rivals, under the watchful design of The Ritz French-English Charles Mewès and Arthur Davis. To this day its Parisian-inspired architecture continues to signal a unique opulence, evident in the Louis XVI style vaulted gallery, sumptuous suites and extravagant crystal, gilt and marble adornments throughout.

The beautiful expanse of the duplex Royal Suite is divided into a bedroom, sitting room and bathroom. In keeping with the rest of the property, the décor reflects the Louis XVI period, illuminated by natural light. The ornate walls and ceilings are embellished with 24-carat gold leaf, while flowers in the suite are designed by Paul Thomas who is responsible for many of the Royal Family’s private commissions. (www.theritzlondon.com)

INTERIORS

grand

lighting

Vintage lighting solutions are available locally at Judith michael & Daughter and Decoratum, though Juliette’s interiors also stocks a great selection of French and italian styles.

Ivory Finish Italian Ironwork Chandelier, £990 Juliette’s Interiors (www.juliettesinteriors.co.uk)

StyliSh

Seating

this hand-carved mahogany chair is finished in damask silk and gold lacquer making it both extravagant and delightful.

Versailles Damask Gold Seat, £435, The French Bedroom Company (www.frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk)

FiniShing toucheS it is the luxurious textures and details which create a stately atmosphere in this suite. Use interesting tie-backs and trimmings to emulate the effect.

Ashlin Trim in Terracotta, from a selection, Designers Guild (www.designersguild.com)

elegant acceSSorieS Rugs help make large spaces feel homely and welcoming. the Rug Company has a huge handmade collection including those with very traditional patterns.

Aubusson 613, £1,780, The Rug Company (www.therugcompany.co.uk)

Storage

Space

There are few storage designs as sophisticated as a velvet ottoman.

Oliver Bonas has several simple designs ready to be personalised.

Velvet Ottoman, £365, Oliver Bonas (www.oliverbonas.com)

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

079

I may be some time

Exactly a century after Captain Scott made his famous expedition, British entrepreneur Neil Laughton and his team set off to recreate the ill-fated mission, pausing for a game of cricket along the way. Josh sims meets the unconventional explorer to discuss treacherous conditions, frozen cricket bats, and why Brits should never turn down the opportunity to beat the Aussies

INTERVIEW

Playing cricket is not the most obvious thing to do when one reaches the geographical South Pole, but it is, as neil laughton suggests, somehow terribly British. ‘We were there to celebrate a Victorian english team, after all,’ says laughton, ‘and cricket is not only quintessentially english, but it was quirky in that way too – i don’t imagine anyone had played a game of cricket there before.’

Back in January, laughton completed a 100-mile journey from the Union glacier – reached by aircraft from Punta arenas in chile – across the Polar Plateau of antarctica to the South Pole. he and his team of three ‘amateur’ explorers walked all the way, pulling their supplies on sleds. they arrived exactly 100 years to the day after which the ill-fated captain robert Falcon Scott and his team reached the pole, beaten to it by roald amundsen’s norwegian team but entering British exploration legend nevertheless. certainly the centenary has not gone unnoticed, seeing a spate of new books and an exhibition of newly discovered photos (at the Queen’s gallery, Buckingham Palace) documenting the expedition. ‘that seems like a great thing to celebrate,’ says laughton, military-man-turnedentrepreneur and now founder of an academy promoting business leadership skills – and for whom the expedition was also the conclusion to what is known among the hardcore adventure community as the explorer’s grand slam: climbing the highest peaks on all seven continents, plus treks to both poles by overland ski. ‘the fact that Scott and his team didn’t survive created that aura of “Brits come second”, but i think that’s unfair. British pride of course meant that he wanted to get their first.

But scientific studies were an equally important part of his exploration – which played no part for amundsen,’ he says. might it then have been symbolically important that the hastily assembled British cricket team might beat the norwegian opposition at the wicket? ‘actually most of the opposition team comprised a group of aussies trekking to the pole on a different route,’ says laughton. ‘and any opportunity to beat the aussies shouldn’t be missed.’ indeed, the British team won by two wickets. not that it was an easy victory. ‘everyone enjoyed themselves for a few hours playing, but it was tough at minus 35 degrees and 10,000ft altitude, which made running between the wickets very tiring,’ says laughton. ‘and

since there was no boundary, you had to run.

With all our protective clothing on, visibility wasn’t ideal either.’

Worse still, perhaps, half-way through the British innings, the bat – damp and frozen – snapped. not that battling on with a handleless stump was by any means the worst of the adventure. White-out conditions typical to the antarctic means that it can prove ‘monotonous but especially disorientating,’ he says. ‘get a compass bearing wrong, and in a couple of minutes you can end up leading your group in a big circle.’ One of laughton’s team suffered frostbite on the first day – a kink in facial protection allowed the skin beneath to turn the tell-tale shade of white in just half an hour. ‘an expedition like this is always a question of getting to grips with where you are and what it demands,’ says laughton. ‘it might be quite easy for someone seasoned in this kind of adventure to complete, but it’s a massive step outside their comfort zone for others. it requires discipline to do the right things and listen, but perhaps above self-belief. it’s psychological. clearly there are values shown by Scott that are no less relevant today - courage, leadership, the desire to further knowledge, to push boundaries...’ certainly laughton – whose next trip will see him take 75 disadvantaged children on a 200km trek across the Sinai Peninsula – has experienced life and death situations: last year he flew a battered flying car over the Sahara; back in 1996 he was caught up in what was reported as the worst storm to hit everest in a century, which ended up killing eight climbers in 24 hours, and which he survived by, as he puts it, ‘sheer fluke’. all of which still begs the question why – having faced great challenges both personal and very real – one would choose to do anything quite as off-beat as playing cricket on finally making it to your destination and planting your own mental flag of success. laughton comes clean. ‘While the greatest pleasure of these expeditions is in showing novices that they really can do great things if they apply the right attitude’, such efforts are also done for charity, in this case for BSeS/catch 22 and the next generation youth development programme. and what better way to draw attention to a good cause than some extreme batting and bowling? ‘that said, it also helped me shift some of the weight i’d put on over christmas,’ says laughton. ‘Shivering constantly is a good way to get it off.’ i’ve heard of easier diets.

‘Clearly there are values shown by Scott that are no less relevant today - courage, leadership, the desire to further knowledge, to push boundaries...’

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

081

Continental

Drift

Bentley is synonymous with exquisite taste and classic British design.

Here, Matthew Carter tests the new Continental GT Coupé and finds it worthy of the Bentely name, even if it does have a ‘drink problem’

MOTORING

getting to be on first name terms with the guys behind the till at my local fuel station is all very well but the bank manager is less than impressed. the trouble is being caused by the latest bentley Continental gt. it’s powered by one of the creamiest engines around, a 6-litre, turbocharged power pack that develops almost 570hp. Performance, flexibility and refinement are unrivalled. but with fuel consumption in the mid-teens (if you’re being good), the credit card is melting on a daily basis. of course, if you’re happy to spend a smidgeon under £150,000 on a car, then £100 fill-ups aren’t going to bother you too much. or are they? the thing about the bentley Continental gt, is that, as the name implies, it’s a fabulous Continental grand tourer. but, despite the 19-gallon fuel tank, travel at speed across europe and you’ll find progress will be dented by the constant need to refuel. Luckily bentley has a solution… but more of that later. First let’s look at the latest Continental gt. bentley would have you believe that this is a brand new car, but the truth is simply that it’s a mid-life face-lift rather than a full scale reinvention. it looks pretty much the same as the original, which appeared eight years ago now (if it ain’t broke…), but there have been some significant improvements. it’s been on a diet to lose 65 kilograms, there’s a new transmission for quicker gear shifts and the chassis has been tweaked for better handling. it’s a little wider overall and the interior is more comfortable (if that’s even possible). there’s also a new roster of gizmos and gadgets, with a better sat nav system and a sound system that includes the wonderfully named balance mode Radiator speakers: perhaps they make the sound warmer. there have also been some under-bonnet changes. the W12 engine, a hugely impressive lump of metal, is now more powerful, more economical and produces lower emissions.

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

083

MOTORING

it can now run on petrol or bioethanol or both, and Bentley claims a 70 per cent reduction in the car’s ‘wellto-wheel’ performance; in other words from production through to the time it hits the road. But the fact remains that the car produces 384 g/km of CO2 at the exhaust pipe, meaning hell will freeze over before a Bentley would be allowed into the 100g/km London Congestion Charge zone for free (unless it was registered as a taxi, of course).

But, wow, what a taxi that would be. Purists might shudder, but the best thing that could have happened to Bentley was being bought by Volkswagen and being split from Rolls-Royce (prop. BmW). it might mean the great British luxury car division is now owned by the germans, but surely that’s better than two of the greatest names in motoring being consigned to the history books? as far as Bentley is concerned, it's been a full-on ride ever since. almost 50,000 examples of the Continental gt have been made and while that might look pretty weedy compared to a Ford Fiesta, for example, in Bentley terms that’s mass production. it’s a ubiquitous sight on London streets and in the parking lots of Premier League football clubs. Remarkably for a car wearing the Bentley badge, it’s almost classless and for

‘The latest GT offers more of the same: fabulous performance, road presence and luxury’ those without huge reserves, a used example offers a great deal of car for the money.

On the road it remains as impressive as ever. that big engine might have a drink problem but it makes the Conti gt brutally fast while the chassis tweaks helps it corner with impressive brio for a car that, despite the weight loss, still tips the scales at a couple of tons. that said, it’s no sportscar: the gt badging is spot on. this is a car for fast autoroute miles down to St tropez or, thanks to the standard four-wheel drive chassis, up to St moritz rather than zooming around Brands hatch. mind you, any long (or short) distance trip will be supremely comfortable. the interior is a master class in craftsmanship, a wonderful blend of modern luxury and gentleman’s Club charm. the materials are, as you’d expect, first class but there’s a nod to the past with the retention of the vast chrome ‘organ stops’ that open and close the ventilation controls. the biggest change inside has been to the front seats, which are thinner than before to create more space in the rear, though any gain is marginal. Yes, this is a four-seater but you won’t want to spend too long in the back.

084

In brIef Car:

Bentley Continental GT Coupé PrICe:

£135,760 engIne:

5,998cc, W12cylinder petrol Power:

567 hp PerformanCe:

198 mph max, 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds DrIve:

Four-wheel drive, six-speed automatic

in summary, the latest Continental gt offers more of the same: fabulous performance, road presence and luxury. Just a shame about the fuel economy, and here’s the bit i promised earlier. at the Detroit motor Show in January, Bentley revealed a new version of the gt, powered by a newly developed bi-turbo 4.0-litre V8 engine. this state-of-the-art unit (essentially an audi engine) offers almost as much power (500bhp) but is up to 40 per cent more fuel-efficient. it even has trick electronics that shut down four cylinders when the car is idling along in traffic for example, to lower consumption.

Performance is slightly down with a top speed of ‘only’ 188 mph and a 4.6 second time for the 0-60mph sprint… but if you can spot the difference in the real world you’re a better man than i. it’s around 25 kilograms lighter, which will help the handling further, and being a V8 it’s likely to make a great noise, too. and at £123,850, the car is cheaper, too. the W12 Continental gt is a good car and the V8 version is likely to be a great one. if you fancy a new Continental gt and are prepared to wait a little, go for the V8.

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

ecurie25.co.uk

écurie25 Supercar Club

écurie25 provides members with immediate access to a collection of the World’s best supercars and the associated lifestyle.

Much more than a supercar club, écurie25 is for people who make the most of every day...

Exciting parties, drive days, track days, weekends away, champagne tastings, trips to Grand Prix’s, and a host of luxury experiences combine to provide members with the ultimate lifestyle.

With five clubhouses in the UK, new clubs in New York and Brisbane, and plenty of stories to share, we would love for you to join us for an exciting adventure. After all, life is what you make of it.

Special Reader Offer from Mayfair Magazine Join écurie25 before the end of March 2012 and receive a free 3-night stay at any Small Luxury Hotel of the World * - anywhere in the World!

To join the club and claim your free gift, please call Mayfair Magazine directly on 0207 987 4320, quoting reference é25 Mayfair. *Terms and Conditions Apply

London

Surrey

Leeds

Silverstone

Northern Ireland

New York

Brisbane

Hitting the

slopes

can hurt

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

Knee, Hip & Groin, Hand & Wrist, Shoulder, Spinal and Head & Neck injuries

020 7483 5148 www.thewellingtonhospital.com

Travel

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

shorT hauL Vs LoNg hauL Don’t leave home without… noise-reducing earphones. these headphones have excellent sound quality, but much more importantly, they have the magical ability to block sound out, making them an ideal investment for anyone travelling with children (theirs or anyone else’s).

Noise-reducing headphones, £69.99 Digital Silence (www.digital-silence.com)

short haul:

Long haul:

Gilpin Lodge, Lake District the Lake District is england showing off to the rest of the world. among the lush woodland, rolling hills and wide open spaces, you will find the simply enchanting boutique hotel of gilpin Lake house, where you can enjoy the very best that the area has to offer. Set on the grassy banks of the four-acre private Knipe tarn lake and hidden within one hundred acres of woodland – all for the exclusive use of their privileged guests – there are just six suites, all merticulously designed down to the last chic, english detail, each with spectacular 360 degree panoramic views of the area. gilpin was awarded the Best Small hotel by Visit england, and boasts one of the most romantic escapes imaginable, where you and your partner can share everything from the cedarwood hot tub and a rather fabulous spa to a Victorian rowing boat in the traditional boat house, how quaint. Dinner is in the nearby gilpin hotel – a complimentary chauffeur is on hand to see you safely from door to door – and meals are a five-course lesson in luxury with fresh, local produce.

Cameron Highlands Resort, Malaysia arguably exerting more english charm than most of this country put together, the Cameron highlands in malaysia are the perfect destination for those looking for an old-fashioned slice of Britishness. Once upon a more colonial time, genteel english folk would flock to the beautiful tea plantations here, where they built the place to remind them of home, and today rose gardens, blooming chrysanthemums and beautiful white bungalows like little cottages on the hillsides will transport you to a time gone by. the Cameron highlands resort is a boutique hotel overlooking the fertile mountain slopes, where you will find the best of both cultures – afternoon tea and reading rooms nod to the British origins, combined with flawless malaysian service. make sure you to visit the Spa village (with signature tea treatments), or make the most of the uniquely cool but bright climate and spend some time in the great outdoors with the exquisite 18-hole golf course adjacent to the resort – you’ll never want to leave.

From £490 per room per night B&B, including dinner, afternoon tea. (01539 488 818; www.gilpinlodge.co.uk)

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

From £329 for three nights B&B based on two people sharing inc transfers from Kuala Lumpur with Trailfinders.

(020 7368 1200; trailfinders.com)

There’s an app for that… ebookers hotel Frantic last-minute hotel searches can be a thing of the past, thanks to this handy little app. Displaying a wide selection of hotels from around the globe, it compares prices for you and allows you to secure a booking in just three simple taps - easy.

Available to download free from the Apple iPad App Store.

The best advice we’ve ever heard…

‘Always take earplugs and an eye mask; even if you’re in the best hotel, there could be road works outside.

If you have a good night’s sleep you can take on the world.’ says Tamsin Egerton

087

English

Heritage

The English countryside is renowned for its beautiful ancient architecture and inspiring landscapes.

EllE BlakEman E Blak Eman man explores the stunning Cotswold’s estate of Ellenborough Park and finds a true British escape just a short drive away from London

TRAVEL

I

’m glad it’s cold. ellenborough Park feels like the sort of place that should be seen in proper english weather, and today’s crisp, early spring chill is ideal for this kind of setting. this 16th century, grade ii elizabethan manor house, once home to the earl of ellenborough, harks back to a time of such regal decadence it’s hard not to go a little Downton Abbey. Staff are everywhere, and you have only to walk near any door before someone is opening it and greeting you warmly.

Just three hours out of London, arriving here feels like we’ve opened the door to narnia, or perhaps the other way: we’re out of narnia and into Peter and Susan’s real life of afternoon tea and jolly hockey sticks. the grounds are enormous, more than big enough to justify the word ‘grounds’ anyway, and there are towers and arches and a stone gazebo that looks like an elizabethan alter. after three long years of work, ellenborough Park has been restored to a glory that we can only assume it ever had (personally i think the earl would be both proud and jealous in equal measure). nina Campbell has been entrusted to modernise the décor while keeping that archetypal brand of englishness that would be criminal to remove. the sprawling estate was made bigger by several new buildings but they have been careful to stay true to the original design. although the new buildings are beautiful, it looks like they need a few rainy days before this section can blend fully with the truly exceptional older ones; a few english summers should see to that. the rooms are gloriously huge, and almost every one is unique, especially in the main building, where you will find interesting little quirks as they negotiate modern demands with old architecture – there are several with the dark original wooden beams and one room even has a mini staircase and hall before you get to the bed. the best room by far is the istabraq suite in the eaves of the great hall, an enormous space with a king-size bed that is nowhere near three of the walls, and a cinema-sized television that looks like an iPad in these surroundings. the en-suite is almost as big as the room, and the freestanding roll-top bath, huge shower and abundance of Penhaligon’s products make bathing an event. aside from an ailing hotel previously, ellenborough Park also was once a girl’s school, which somehow makes sense; you can just imagine a traditional headmistress marching uniformed young ladies through the grounds. the manager tells me that some of the girls, now in their Sixties and beyond, return to the place and tell him how it used to be, which is charming. there’s a sense of longevity and absorbing stories and life that only really old buildings have. One scandal captures imagination more than most: apparently the one-time lady of the house, Jane Digby took a string of lovers including Ludwig i of Bavaria and King Otto of greece, earning her a divorce from Lord ellenborough. Who said the english were reserved?

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

089

TRAVEL

Cheltenham’s famous racecourse is visible wherever you stand, being just minutes away, and is obviously a massive draw to anyone interested in the sport. When the season starts, getting a room at ellenborough Park is like being part of a special club; you can arrive to the course in ultimate style by taking one of the complimentary Range Rover trips which shuttle guests back and forth, cutting a three-hour, bumper-to-bumper queue to the car park to a rather fun seven-minute cross-country chauffeured drive. aside from the racing, enjoying the outdoors is practically mandatory in the Cotswolds and helpfully ellenborough Park has a variety of ways to help you do so (and therefore make you feel increasingly guilty if you decided to simply while away your time in the spa and brasserie). if you are orgnaised, you can arrange horse-riding lessons. You can go shooting, fishing and other manly ‘ing’ pursuits. i am not orgnaised and i am here with my mother who wants to act like the Lady of the manor (and is becoming so alarmingly accustomed to the excellent service i fear she may actually never leave), so with this in mind we decide to go walking in the seemingly endless hills and fields.

090

not only can ellenborough Park provide a guide (we refuse, lest we ruin the ‘Lady of the manor’ spell; we don’t want to be reminded that we are only guests), maps and advice on the best places to go, they also provide hunter wellies and Dubarry boots and jackets for you to walk in. in the boot room these rows of fabulous designer outerwear are lined up, just waiting for you to take them for a spin. With a little help from yet another member of staff i am suddenly trussed up like a serious english walker – someone who actually owns appropriate outdoor clothing, the kind of person who does this sort of thing all the time! i smugly stroll off into the fields feeling like i belong here rather than a central Londoner on a country jaunt and my mother looks like she only needs a corgi and a headscarf before she becomes part of a landscape painting. the rolling fields are magnificent and absolutely one of the most exciting things to a mayfair resident you can imagine – these simple pleasures we miss in the capital. there is mud! Which, thanks to the hunter’s, i am completely unbothered by. We see foxes and horses and climb over stiles; it’s reminding me of a childhood in the country, not mine, perhaps enid Blyton’s. after an hour happily melts away we realise we are lost and have to climb back rather precariously over a fence unhelpfully wrapped in barbed wire. it’s exhilarating and fun and exactly the kind of country life you want to sample for a few hours, before running back to your five-star luxury estate. Back at the manor, we visit the spa to recover. the indian theme is perhaps a little confusing in the quintessentially english, nina-Campbell designed estate, but it works, and frankly is such a relaxing space you barely notice. the food is incredible, the welsh chef, David Kelman is keen to show off the Cotswold’s cuisine and only uses excellent, locally sourced produce. here too the service is impeccable. it feels like there are more staff than guests, though the place is full so that can’t be right. ellenborough Park is the england we all want to remember, whether it ever really existed or not. it’s Downtown’s abbey, harry Potter’s hogwarts and Jane eyre’s thornfield all rolled into one. and just two hours’ drive from the ‘real’ world.

Southam, Cheltenham, GL52 (01242 545454; www.ellenboroughpark.com).

From £240 per night, including breakfast. Ellenborough Park is a Mantis hotel, for more information or to book please visit www.mantiscollection.com.

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

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

MY

K

XXXXXX

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

Lobby, The Chedi Ackergill Tower

Akergill Castle, Scotland a rugged, unspoiled landscape with secrets to discover. By Katie RichaRdson pure openness fills your viewpoint here: wide skies and rolling moors that merge into dramatic peaks and stretch for miles, particularly on a clear morning. it’s early spring, and the seasonal colours on the hills are very mixed. the winter sports are winding down, but outdoor pursuits are still plentiful. Wildlife is easier to spot this time of year - deer come down off the mountains and birds flock here in their thousands. Whether you want to wander across miles of deserted, silver sandy dunes, stand thigh-deep in salmon seeped waters, or simply sit by a peat fire, this part of the highlands is the place to do it. the estate is ideal for traditional country sports like game stalking and clay pigeon shooting, while the spectacular coastline that surrounds Caithness makes fishing possible all year round. golf aficionados can enjoy the most northernly mainland course in Britain, at reay near thurso, and for those seeking adrenaline the landscape is abound with exciting mountain biking and kayaking trails. if exploring is more your thing - Wick, one of the main hubs of the north coast, is steeped in history. the heritage museum brings the town to life, while the northlands Viking Centre nearby reveals the scandinavian influences of the surrounding villages. the grey Cairns of Camster remain one of the best preserved neolithic sites in northern scotland, and a trip to the restored Castle of mey, the Caithness home of the Queen mother, is the perfect place to overlook the pentland Firth and the orkney islands and spot a seal or two.

Ackergill Tower is available for up to 32 people. Prices start at £350 per person, per day, all inclusive (01955 603556; www.amazingretreats.com).

Fly from Edinburgh and onto Wick with Flybe (0871 700 2000; www.flybe.com)

092

Where To STAy steeped in grandeur and tradition, and just five minutes from Wick airport, is the world-famous ackergill tower, which dates back to the 1400’s and still retains many of its original features. surrounded by local rivers, lochs and the tranquil coastline of the north sea, amusements are wide and varied: shooting, deer stalking and horse riding, as well as archery, deep-sea fishing and falconry. if you fancy taking things a little easier, a team of therapists are on hand for all manner of beauty treatments. the dramatic scenery and clean fresh air will guarantee you a relaxing break from the hustle and bustle of the city. eATing And drinking ackergill provides fantastic variety in their seasonal menus with all produce sourced from the estate. an expert sommelier is also on hand to select something delicious from the fully-stocked wine cellar. if you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, take a helicopter over to inverness and experience the exciting seven-course tasting menu at the Chef table at award-winning abstract restaurant (www.abstractrestaurant.com). each dish is introduced by head Chef graham Campbell and you can watch the skilled team at work in the kitchen.

MAyfAir reCoMMendS Complete your weekend with a beach bonfire on sinclair Bay. snuggle under some tartan cashmere and indulge in the 2012 World Whisky of the Year – a 21-year-old single malt from the wonderful old pulteney distillery – while listening to the haunting sounds of bagpipes on the hillside – a spectacular side of scotland that very few will be privileged enough to see.

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

XXXXXX

Printed wellington boots, £125, Hunter (www.hunter-boot.com)

Camel wool coat, £1,275, Stella McCartney (www.net-a-porter.com)

Juniper Sling Eau de Toilette, £110, Penhaligon’s (www.penhaligons.com)

18 Karat-gold and emerald ring, Ellen Monaghan, £1,100 (www.ellenmonaghan.net)

24-karat gold diamond drop earrings, £6,000, Pippa Small (www.net-a-porter.com)

Burberry Textured-leather ankle boots £450 (www.net-a-porter.com)

Printed silk gown, Temperley £1,950 (www.net-a-porter.com)

Printed scarf, Alexander McQueen, £445 (www.net-a-porter.com) Lipstick in ‘Sangers’, Illamasqua, £15.50 (www.illamasqua.com)

ALS:

NTI E S S E SE

A

SUITC

lenty with p er, and arryall will th a le s oak table c xuriou . ’s cove from lu ls, Mulberry kend in style e d a M a e : ti e n le w ew e ty s d in s gon’s n our es ighlan Travel enhali age to all of y ugh your H P r , fo in m Dry G r hom u thro of roo furthe . ondon take yo d by L a scent. Pay -red lipstick e ir p s n d f I o o : s lo il e b v ta a y k ng cream must-h isp coc low-slu Beauty Sling is a cr ties with this nod to desirable l r o n e o e c w ip Jun is a ing a aring T l. Wear ol coat cut giv the Ro s boxy ha camel wo Scottish chil ed it h it r e W oc out th e chic: ry textu ey’s m Daytim lla McCartn r fect to keep ese Burber t scar f. pe d th en Ste te and ette pants an irrever waists, h this r upda r e it a a e w ig w c r m a p e, Alic oute adenc er shar boots, and te c p t e c u d s fe e h r wit vintag the pe h r ankle ture of silk gown is it leathe ic w p r e a h pired ackdrop. We g from our: T in elly-ins g glam b erald r arrings Evenin ley’s Grace K cient castle e ing em r an Tempe ent to the es, this stunn mond drop m ia v e. c n compli e Marcel wa e exquisite d a g ele thes -esqu ximum Gatsby naghan and for ma ll a m o S nM ippa t h e M AE Y ll Fe A I R m a g aozm fr i nPe

Mulberry Piccadilly leather weekend bag, £1,100 (www.net-a-porter.com)

093

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

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

www.theplatinummedicalcentre.com

Beauty

N ews Tips and tricks to look and feel your best from industry insiders

CaTwaLk To CouNTer This monTh’s Trend: Cat eyes from elizabeth Taylor to Kate moss, via Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn’s ultra-glamorous turn as Holly golightly, cat eyes are an enduring beauty trend that will forever turn women into smouldering sex symbols. The legendary Pat mcgrath is responsible for the feline-inspired flicks on dolce & gabbana’s S/S 12 runway (right), and the look could also be seen at Louis Vuitton, giorgio Armani, and Jonathan Sanders, where the winged eyeliner was taken a step further almost reaching the model’s brows. The best eyeliner by far to achieve this look is guerlain’s Liquid eye Liner, which has a super-thin brush that makes it incredibly easy to use. Begin the line in the middle of the eyelid, close to the lashes, and then sweep outwards and flick up at the edge – cleopatra herself.

Guerlain Liquid Eye Liner, £23, available nationwide AYFAI

s

R

d

M

R

M

ec

oM Men

TreaTmeNT of The moNTh: margaret Dabbs medical Pedicure at Liberty for everyone who has spent two seasons ignoring their feet (approximately 100% of everyone I unofficially surveyed), this treatment goes beyond necessary. margaret dabbs only deals in feet, which should convey the level of passion and knowledge that goes south of the ankles at this spa. discreetly tucked away in Liberty, the podiatrist transforms neglected soles with high-tech equipment.

Nails are filed and ridges removed, before the sole of the foot is then (painlessly!) worked on with a medical blade. Any complaints can be assessed and expert advice given, making this feel like an moT for feet. £80 for 45 minutes (www.margaretdabbs.co.uk)

T H e M AY FA I R m A g A z I N e

PRoducT of THe moNTH: cult British brand, Liz earle has been bringing fresh, natural Somerset-based beauty to us stressed out Londoners for over 15 years now. The maker of universal favourite hot cleanse and polish has now released a highimpact new hair treatment which promises to bring back the shine to winter-beaten tresses.

Botanical shine treatment, £14 (www.lizearle.com)

The best advice we’ve heard…

Invest in a quality hairbrush – it’s much better for your hair than cheaper brands which can tear the hair shaft, and will last a lifetime if taken care of properly. Hair expert Neil Ward recommends the LHS5 from pro-favourite and suppliers to the royal family, Kent and Sons, who have held the Royal Warrant for an impressive nine reigns. The brush is handmade from beech wood and satin, using an old method known as hand drawing – where bristles are meticulously stitched into the brush by hand, ensuring that there is nothing to snag fragile hair on – perfect for keeping hair long and strong.

LHS5 brush, £145 (www.kentbrushes.com)

095

Spa RetReat

Home & Away Kate Harrison and Katie ricHardson discover two of the UK’s most luxurious spas, each offering a memorable experience.

One can be found on your doorstep while the other is further afield

Aman Spa at The Connaught, London, UK ‘Amanjunkies’, as they have been dubbed by the travel industry, are guests who develop an addiction to the international Aman Resorts from their very first visit. Each of the 24 Aman resorts is totally distinctive, while sharing a common ethos centred on beauty, tranquillity and relaxation. Flawlessly finished, each of the unique and unspoilt environments is integrated with natural architecture to create a stunning and stylish hideaway which is also environmentally friendly. With this in mind, the recent partnership with Mayfair’s elegant Connaught hotel to create the first Aman urban spa, sets a very high expectation indeed.

The Asian-inspired aesthetic is one of tranquillity and luxurious calm where the spa experience is almost spiritual and therapists meditate each day to ensure that only positive energy is passed on to their awaiting guests. Treatments are listed on the menu to inspire rather than dictate and the talented therapists consult with guests over a footbath to provide a truly tailored and exceptional experience.

Intrigued by the treatment from China, my therapist and I decide that my skin needs to be refreshed and that my body is in need of balancing. After an invigorating body scrub, I stand in my personal steam room to allow my pores to open and take on the full benefits of my deep tissue massage. We finish the treatment with a facial that uses the healing properties of honey to purify and renew the skin. By the time my luxurious two-and-a-half-hour treatment has come to an end, I have wholeheartedly joined the ranks of the Amanjunkies. (www.the-connaught.co.uk)

HEALTH & BEAUTY

The Fletcher’s Cottage Spa at Archerfield House, Scotland, UK Just a 40 minute drive from edinburgh, and hidden amidst the 550 acres of the grade i listed archerfield house lays the enchantingly rustic Fletcher’s Cottage Spa. it’s no surprise this historic east Lothian beauty spot, bestowed with majestic pine forests, epic sea views and healing fresh air was rumoured to be a favourite retreat of mary Queen of Scots and the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson’s treasure island – written from the study in archerfield’s marine Villa. Some of the world’s finest luxury products are found here; the reclaimed time-enriched materials from the estate, along with nurturing and detoxifying organic beauty treatments, are all aimed to wrap you in a cocoon of rest and rejuvenation. guests are made to feel instantly at home, by being encouraged to slip into a cosy handmade Kenyan robe, and settling in front of a roaring log fire with a hot toddy. the archerfield house brand retains all of the elements one would expect of an exclusive private members club but with a very relaxed and informal atmosphere. the design details of the Spa are lovely – the twelve uniquely styled treatment rooms, both single and dual – for couples – feature an array of therapeutic experiences, including a purifying Rasul mud cure room, a cleansing steam room and an herb aroma sauna for deep detoxification and relaxation. the pièce de résistance of the treatments is the himalayan Salt Scrub, where purifying crystals from the foothills of the mountains are rubbed over the body to stimulate healing – utterly enriching. (www.archerfieldgolfclub.com)

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

097

HEALTH PROMOTION

Smoke alarm This year, No Smoking Day urges millions of smokers across the UK to kick the habit for good

I

n years gone by it was seen as glamorous, sophisticated, and at points it was even considered a panacea. We watched it billow from the mouths of Hollywood starlets, and top tobacco brands emblazoned their logos across Formula One cars.

But why, when the effects of smoking have now been clearly documented, flagrant advertising has been quashed and the perception of smoking turned on its head, do over eight million people in England alone still smoke?

Many smokers may be acutely aware of the numerous cancers that smoking can instigate, but the list of health issues arising from tobacco use is longer still.

The number one killer is heart disease, followed closely by respiratory, circulatory and digestive system diseases. In 2009, there were 81,400 smoking related deaths in England alone, and a vast amount of these were preventable – if that person hadn’t smoked or been exposed to it.

The Government has taken huge steps to deter and discourage smokers by implementing legislation such as the smoking ban and increasing tax on tobacco products, but it is also intent on offering education, advice and support about quitting.

Wednesday 14th March is national No Smoking Day, and a great excuse to attempt to quit if your New Year’s resolution has already slipped. Every year, the No Smoking Day charity, urges more people to become smoke free. Their website (www.nosmokingday.org.uk) offers support, tips and incentives to kick the habit.

Addiction, stress relief, boredom and hunger suppression have all been highlighted as reasons for smoking, but the benefits of quitting are far more attractive: 48 hours after stopping there is no nicotine left in your body, and your sense of taste and smell are enhanced.

Your energy levels increase and breathing becomes easier. After a few weeks any coughs or wheezing improves, as does your circulation and ability to exercise. Long term, quitting halves the risk of a heart attack and developing lung cancer, and leaves you in better shape to fight any diseases.

Research has also shown that the younger you give up smoking, the more years you’ll add to your Damian Muncaster MSc BSc (Hons) PG Dip life. Will you quit this is the Senior Chief Respiratory Physiologist at March?

The Wellington Hospital and manages the lung function laboratory. The lab provides a full range of basic and complex investigations including Fitness to Fly assessments, Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing, Hypoxic Inhalation Challenges and Sleep Studies. He is an expert in most areas of respiratory physiology and runs Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a huge health burden. regular spirometry workshops and It is the biggest cause of hospital admissions and is the 6th highest cause of education sessions.

Meet

the specialist

Breathing easy death in the UK, each year.

Having COPD means that it is much harder to get air in and out of the lungs. Smoking is the most common cause of COPD and patients present with symptoms of cough, phlegm and shortness of breath. The best way to accurately diagnose COPD is by performing spirometry which measures the degree of airflow obstruction. Spirometry involves blowing as hard you can for as long as you can several times into a machine called a spirometer.

The result determines whether a patient has an obstructive or restrictive disease and measures the severity of any impairment.

Accurate spirometry allows COPD to be staged and subsequently managed correctly.

Giving up smoking significantly reduces the risk of developing COPD and dramatically reduces the disease progression but there is no cure for COPD. Treatment alleviates patient symptoms and includes bronchodilators, nebulisers and steroids. Dietary, smoking cessation and pulmonary rehabilitation advice are also vital to the patients management. If you are concerned about COPD ask your GP for spirometry to investigate further.

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

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

099

Food & Drink

N ews

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

sunday lunch this month, Pall mall dwellers have a fabulous new option for the traditional Sunday lunch as grand brasserie the Balcon launches its new menu.

With a stunning setting – all epic light fittings and spiral staircases, this lunch is perfect for those looking to recover from the night before, including a Bloody mary as well as a full roast with all the trimmings (with British classic bread sauce) – you’ll be on the road to recovery in no time! (www.thebalconlondon.com)

Jubilee tea get into the royal spirit with the irreverently packaged, ultra-regal new range of Fortnum & mason’s tea and jams made to celebrate the 2012 Jubilee year. the brand are using their Royal Warrant to full advantage, and have even used the range to decorate the windows looking out onto Picacadilly – around a menagie of boldly coloured royal beasts playing musical instruments. naturally.

From £6.95 (www.fortnumandmason.com)

French fancy Dover Street is rapidly becoming the new place to be, and now the home of the arts Club, and automat can boast another excellent place to dine, as aubaine, London’s answer to Parisian eaterie-chic opens its doors. go French and take a leisurely brunch of croissants or eggs benedict, or visit in the evening where rich meats are the only way to go.

Downstairs, this provincial-style bistro turns into a screening room, where you can catch one of a series of French film screenings in style. Who needs the eurostar?

Heaven in Harrods

as if the iconic store didn’t have enough to boast about, this month will see harrods welcome the fifth London offering from galvin Demoiselle. the michelin-starred chef brothers Chris and Jeff galvin will be bringing their unique brand of French bistro eating to the South Kensington store overlooking the hustle of the classic Food halls. try their signature Confit pork cheeks and tarte tatin – c’est magnifique. (www.harrods.com)

Carefree cupcakes

For those who suffer with invariably inconvienient lactose intolerance there is now a sweet treat to answer your prayers – the oh-so cute and decadently delicious Strawberry Delight cupcake at cult favourite Lola’s on Berkeley Square. made with Lactofree products it is ideal for those who have so far missed out on the cupcake movement – prepare for a new addiction! £2.50, Lola’s 16 Lansdowne Row, Berkeley Square, W1J 8QF (www.lolas-kitchen.co.uk)

Aubaine Mayfair, 31 Dover Street, London, W1 (www.aubaine.co.uk)

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

101

National

Gin has been an important feature in an Englishman’s drinking habits for centuries, here Ian Buxton looks at the spirited history of London’s original tipple

EvEr wondErEd what ‘London Gin’ means?

Until recently, the answer would have been ‘not a lot’.

Unlike Plymouth Gin, which is a legally-protected term permitting distillation only in that fair city; London Gin simply denotes a style that can be made anywhere.

Historically, gin came from Holland and became London’s favourite drink in the eighteenth century when gin distillation took hold of much of the city. writing about this period, Lord Hervey declared: ‘drunkenness of the common people was universal, the whole town of London swarmed with drunken people from morning till night.’ william Hogarth in his 1751 engraving ‘Gin Lane’ portrays a scene of idleness, vice and misery, leading to madness and death. As students of history will know, binge drinking is nothing new. But, eventually, gin cleaned up its act and by the post-war period, the manufacture of gin moved out of the city as the distilling industry consolidated.

In fact today, much London gin (including many big brands and cult favourites such as Hendricks) is made in Scotland and the sole producer of any scale or brand significance remaining in London is Beefeater, which distils in Kennington. But

now, smaller producers are fighting back with distinctive London gins, often on a boutique, hand-crafted scale.

These are – crucially – made in London and served in the capital’s most stylish of bars.

This move to limited expressions was led – quite fittingly – by Beefeater with its premium Beefeater 24 style, launched in 2008. It incorporates rare teas in the botanicals for a distinctively English twist. recently it’s been followed by the even more interesting and distinctive Beefeater Summer and winter Editions. As the name implies, it’s a case of use it or lose it – the styles, which add a selection of seasonal plants such as elderflower, hibiscus and blackcurrant to the standard Beefeater botanicals, will only be available for the appropriate season. Beefeater Summer – a cooler, lighter gin designed for cocktails – has probably passed you by, but the winter Edition could still be on shelves now. other newcomers include oxley (from Bacardi, but you’d never know); Sipsmiths; old Tom from Jensen, which attempts to recreate a sweeter style of spirit popular in the 19th century; and Sacred Gin, which is – almost unbelievably – distilled by hand in Highgate.

FOOD & DRINK

pirit Oxley and Sacred Gin both employ a highly unusual cold distillation process, which aims to preserve more of the taste of the botanicals, resulting in a taste that’s surprisingly fresh and quite true to the base ingredients. Either can be sipped neat, though most will be used in cocktails. Quite lavishly packaged, and expensive at around £45 for a bottle, Oxley is aimed primarily at the US market but can be found in a handful of London’s more eligible gin joints.

No less exclusive, but rather better value at £30, Sacred Gin has already collected a number of awards and attracted the attention of cutting-edge cocktail maestros. Sacred is produced using 12 different botanicals including juniper (the staple ingredient of all gin), cardamom, nutmeg, and Boswellia Sacra (aka Frankincense) from which the brand name is derived.

Distiller Ian Hart also offers enthusiasts the opportunity to create their own personalised gin by selling bottles of the individual flavours themselves.

Perfect for creating your own recipe and the ultimate, (but probably unrepeatable) Martini.

Sipsmiths is the creation of distiller Jared Brown, who makes just 500 bottles (or less) at a time in a

custom-designed pot still which, entirely co-incidentally, is housed in the Hammersmith building formerly the offices and tasting room of the late and great Michael Jackson (a well-noted drinks writer, not the singer).

Here Brown produces an interpretation of the classic London Dry style that nods to its heritage and emerges as a particularly dry gin with a wonderful burst of juniper and a zesty, citrus freshness.

Finally, fine wine merchants Berry Bros. & Rudd have recently launched their No.3 brand of London Gin. Named after the address of their long-established shop in St James’s Street, No.3 is designed to be the perfect ingredient in a classic dry martini. The distinctive, fresh citrus notes come from orange and grapefruit peels and a touch of coriander. Crucially, distillation is a batch process in traditional pot stills, where cardamom and angelica add a dry, spicy taste and juniper complete the recipe.

However, despite their impeccable London pedigree, Berry Bros. & Rudd, the archetypal gentleman’s wine merchant, can only claim this as an honorary Londoner, for No.3 is made in Holland. And thus, you could say, this London gin is coming home from home.

103

FOOD & DRINK

Gin pairings With its aromatic punch and delicate balance of botanical flavours, gin has long been hailed as the king of spirits when it comes to mixing a fine cocktail. here are our suggestions for the ultimate pairings

The ultimate Martini: arguably the most iconic cocktail of all time, a classic martini should always be made using a healthy measure of gin and the merest hint of dry vermouth, to broaden out the drink’s subtle flavours. in fact, Winston Churchill’s preference for a martini was for stirring ice-cold gin, ‘whilst staring in the direction of a bottle of vermouth’. a classic Dry martini works best with a simple but direct gin, such as Berry Bros & Rudd no.3 gin, which errs heavily on the juniper flavours, with a touch of cardamom and citrus peel. always stir the drink slowly to ensure its clarity - shaking bruises the ice and leads to chunks floating in your glass. Olive or lemon peel twist? there is no definitive answer here, but whatever you choose, aim for the best quality olives you can find or try to seek out italian lemons from the amalfi coast, which have a superior zest.

The Negroni:

The French 75:

made using equal parts of gin, Campari and sweet (red) vermouth and served over ice with a twist of orange peel, the negroni was said to hail from italy in the early 1900’s when Count Camillo negroni asked a bartender to strengthen his regular cocktail. the subtle dry, bitter notes of the Campari mix perfectly with the sweet aromatic notes of the vermouth and the gin binds the whole cocktail together. try using Jensen’s Bermondsey gin, which aims to replicate the traditional style of gins used in cocktails at the turn of the century.

Sharp, refreshing and timeless, the French 75 was invented in 1915 at the now legendary harry’s new York Bar in Paris and takes its name from the French 75mm field gun, which it is said, gives a similar kick! the drink calls for 1½ meaures of gin, ½ a measure of freshly squeezed lemon juice and a dash of cane sugar syrup, topped up with Champagne. try using a suitably citrus heavy gin like Beefeater to measure up to the citrus bite of the lemon juice.

104

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

AWise

investment

By Joss Fowler, Fine Wine Sales and Purchasing at Berry Bros. & Rudd aFteR a Relatively poor 2011, the fine wine market does look set for a positive 2012. Fine wine does not have a stock market as such, but the best independent barometer of market prices as a whole is the liv-ex 100, which fell 16% in the 12 months to February 2012. there was much talk at the end of 2011 of the bottom of the market being very close, and that would now appear to be the case, with the liv-ex 100 finally turning a corner and gaining 1.4% in January alone. as more people invest in wine, it does start to behave a little more like a traditional investment. it has become more volatile, though the first rule of investing in wine is to view the investment as a long-term one. to put this in perspective, the liv-ex 100 is up 65% over the past five years. a more tangible example is 2005 Ch. lafite-Rothschild: in June 2006, a case of this wine would set you back £3,750 in bond and, while it is down from its peak of around £12,000 per case in bond, a case today will still fetch around £9,500 – not a bad return, and some might say that with prices still a little soft, this could well be a good time to come into the market. the key advantages of investing in wine are twofold: scarcity and tangibility. an investment in wine through Berrys is not an investment in a fund – it’s the purchase of a physical case of wine, something tangible. Wines are bought, stored and sold ‘in bond’ – so no excise duty or vat is paid – and stored, in the customer’s name, in a state of the art temperature-controlled facility. and, while the quality 106

of that case is slowly improving as the wine ages in perfect conditions, supply of that wine is constantly dwindling.

Prices can and do fall, yes, but sooner or later supply dries up. Berrys’ customers also benefit from liquidity through BBX (Berrys’ Broking exchange) – our pioneering trading platform. Customers with wines stored in our cellars can list them for sale on our website at a price of their choosing (with independent valuation data provided and, of course, advice from their account manager if required). launched in October 2010, approximately one million pounds’ worth of wine is traded on the platform every month. the investment market for fine wine has traditionally focussed on the top 30 or so châteaux of Bordeaux and a handful of the top Burgundy producers. however, with a growing and increasingly educated market, other regions are starting to look attractive (and progressively good value when compared to top Bordeaux). France does remain the mainstay and had enjoyed some brilliant vintages for its key regions: 2009 & 2010 Bordeaux, Burgundy and Rhône wines are all of outstanding quality, and the Rhônes will be released at the beginning of march. Whilst these may not be seen yet as ‘investment grade’ wines, they will certainly be an investment in pleasure.

Berry Bros. & Rudd 01256 340 123 (www.bbr.com)

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

Canary Wharf London luxury & style canarywharf.com

Friday 8TH JUNE 2012

City Friday & Polo Party at MINT Polo In The Park THE HURLINGHAM CLUB & PARK, FULHAM, LONDON SW6 FRIDAY 8TH JUNE 2012 CITY FRIDAY & ‘VEUVE CLICQUOT AT HURLINGHAM’ PARTY

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

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

Prices start from just £185 plus VAT per person. For more details or to book, telephone 0207 936 5284 or email: rachel@ cityevents.uk.com.

www.mintpolointhepark.com

INTERVIEW

Remembering May fa I R G.F. Trumper With haircuts and shaves in town costing a mere penny a time, it’s little surprise that the well-to-do Victorian gentleman would have his grooming done at home by his valet. generally, the typical barber’s shop at the end of the 19th century was a little on the seedy side – fine if you were looking for some spirited handiwork by a man with a razor, but not so good if you were in the mood for something a little more genteel. spotting a gap in the market for a more refined grooming experience, george F. trumper opened his first barbershop in mayfair’s curzon street in 1875, his eye very much on a more discerning customer. the great and the good of mayfair came in their droves, drawn as much by mr trumper’s skills with the scissors as they were by the heady aromas that wafted out of his front door. a master scent-maker, trumper and his aftershaves – which he lovingly made by hand – became the talk of the town. ‘i think mr trumper had the idea of making his shop feel more like a luxurious club, rather than just a functional barber’s shop,’ says Paulette Bersch, whose family has owned and run trumpers for more than 50 years. ‘it very much suited his clientele, a lot of whom were military and the aristocracy.’

When george trumper died, his daughter picked up the reins, but she could never quite match her father’s flair for the business, and as the years ticked by the shop lost a little of its lustre. From across town, Bersch’s father, ivan – himself a well-known barber in neighbouring Jermyn street – could

easily envisage a return to trumpers’ glory days. ‘my father approached mr trumper’s daughter many times over the years to see if she would sell it to him, and eventually she did,’ says Bersch. What followed was a subtle renovation programme and a return of the curzon street shop to its former elegance. today, a pampering session at trumpers is a treat for men of all backgrounds – as Bersch says, ‘You don’t need a title to come here’ – and while hairstyles come and go, one thing that Bersch is glad to see the back of is the practise of singeing hair with a taper. the omnipresent smell of burnt hair that she recalls from her childhood was ‘awful’. now a frequent stop on the tourist trail thanks to guide books pointing out that this is where everyone from King george Vi to ian Fleming have had their hair styled, trumpers is a rare mix of the traditional and the luxurious, with an aura that effortlessly evokes the spirit of those early years. the polished mahogany that runs the length of the shop is exactly how it would have looked back when mr trumper first kitted it out, and the delightful whiff of scents that beguile the senses still have their roots in many of mr trumper’s original creations. ‘if we’re still here in another 100 years,’ says Bersch, ‘i would hope that we’re still giving customers whatever they asked for in a courteous way. i would like to always maintain our “traditional” feel, but with a modern edge for the cool and elegant man.’

‘There was a gap in the market for a more refined grooming experience’

Above / Outside 9 Curzon Street early 1960’s Right / Inside 9 Curzon Street 1958

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

109

Where can I... ?

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

FIX IT QUICK

Dry cleaner / clothing repair

Watch Club

Mayfair Prestige

Sivellav

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

0845 862 2142 info@mayfair-prestige.com

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

LAND, SEA AND AIR

VIP Car Hire

Soho AV

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

020 7494 4449 hire@sohoav.com

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

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

Buy a car

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

Jeeves of Belgravia

Porsche

54 South Audley Street, W1K 2QQ 020 7491 8885

Berkeley Square, W1K 3NA 020 7514 0900

Washington Dry Cleaners

Rolls Royce

18 Half Moon Street, W1J 7BF 020 7499 3711

15 Berkeley Square, W1J 6EG 020 7491 7941

it / tech support

charter a helicopter

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

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

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

36 Davies Street, W1K 4NF 020 7355 0980

Emtjets

rent a rolls royce

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

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

Mayfair Cobblers

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

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

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

4 White Horse Street, W1J 7LG

Sole Man

Sunseeker

Hanwells

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

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

Old Park Lane Capital

86-91 Uxbridge Road W7 3ST 020 7436 2070

49 Berkeley Square, W1J 5AZ 020 7493 8188

Phantom Hire

South China Securities Ltd

0800 542 1337

12 Stanhope Gate, W1K 1AW 020 7491 9225

thames cruise City Cruses 020 7740 0400

London River Cruises 020 7839 8008

London Battersea Heliport

Cheyne 13 Cleveland Row, SW1A 1DH 020 7968 7450

Princess Yachts

Mike Will Fix It

Pensar

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

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

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

0845 402 6797 www.pensar.co.uk

Buy / sell shares

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

international courier

Bridges Wharf, Battersea, SW11 3BE 0844 884 8660

River Thames Cruises

DHL

020 7237 3108/9111

0844 248 0844

electric cars

Spirit of Chartwell

Excel

020 7372 2077

020 7536 7170

54 Stratton Street, W1J 8LP 020 7493 3505

The Electric Car Corporation

Thames Cruises

FedEx

Watch repair

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

020 7928 9009 info@thamescruises.com

0845 607 0809

1 White Horse Street, W1J 7LB 020 7355 2553

Timpson

Marcus Watches

Thames Dinner Cruises

London Executive International 020 7450 0060 enquiry@londonexec.com

170 Bond Street, W15 4RB 020 7290 6500

luxury car rental

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

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

auDio Visual hire

0844 888 4111

Russell Talerman

Mayfair Corporation

AV2hire.comn

Go-Betweens Couriers Ltd

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

020 8255 0522 chauffeur@mayfaircorp.co.uk

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

020 7278 1000 info@gobetweenscouriers.com

Belgravia Garage

0845 299 4127

LAST MINUTE BUSINESS

local courier City Sprint

CONCIERGE

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

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

Executive Cars UK 0800 048 3359

London Prestige Chauffeur Service

MTS Mayfair Translation

Doctor

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

Lees Place Medical Centre

Paul Thomas Flowers

11 Lees Place, W1n 6Ln 020 7036 6060

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

Russian Business Translator

The London General Practice

0770 411 4323

5 Devonshire Place, W1g 6hL 020 7935 1000

LIFE SAVER BaBy sitter

Find a Babysitter.com

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

020 7580 6403

Urgent Care Centre

Rockabye Babysitters

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

9 Wimpole St, W1g 9Sg 020 7624 0060

oPtician

020 7127 4838

Dentist

Arthur Morrice

The Executive Car Service

Aqua Dental Spa

020 7635 2571

25 manchester Square, W1U 3PY 020 7935 5332

020 7624 2632 www.prestigechauffeurs.org

Signature Cars

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

UK Chauffeurs Ltd 020 3326 0513 bookings@ukcl.net

Private Dining room Corrigans

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

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

Lund Osler Dental Health Care

28 Upper grosvenor Street W1K 7eh 020 7499 9943

56 Knightsbridge, SW1X 7Jn 020 7838 8969

Hibiscus

11 South molton Street, W1K 5QL 020 7499 1225

29 maddox Street, W1S 2Pa 020 7629 2999

Sartoria 20 Savile Row, W1S 3PR 020 7534 7000

Florist

N Meyer & Associates

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

Scott’s

Peter Kertesz

20 mount Street, W1K 2he 020 7495 7309

29a Brook Street, W1K 4he 020 7629 3262

Tempo

Swiss Smile

54 Curzon Street, W1J 8Pg 020 7629 2742

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

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

Dog walkers

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

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

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

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

Central London Dog Walking Service

Jeff de Bruges

18 Warwick Square, SW1V 2aB 0785 604 5975

13 South molton Street, W1K 5QW 020 7409 0213

Chelsea Dogs

Linley Accessories

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

46 albemarle Street, W1S 4Jn 020 7290 1410

Happy Paws

34 Burlington arcade, W1J 0Qa 020 7499 6337

41 Cumberland Street, SW1V 4LU 0781 846 3286

K9 to 5 Club

Penfriend London

Personal cheF

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

Galor Personal Chef

Mayfair Mutts

The Personal Chef

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

020 7871 1080

Pawsh Dogs Dog Walking

020 7371 4076 contact@galor.co.uk

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

54 harwood Road, SW6 4PY 0750 344 8489

High Heels

30 Bruton Place, W1J 6nL 020 7409 1728

The Mayfair Dental Practice

Pedigree Pups

Sophie Deedes 0759 504 3802

0780 433 7486 sam@pedigree-pups.com

Mark Lord London

translator

71 Park Street, W1K 7hn 020 7499 2168

Pets in the City

0786 658 1230 mark@marklordlondon.co.uk

Central Translations

Teeth @ W1

21 Woodstock Street, W1C 2aP 020 7493 5511

7 South molton Street, W1K 5Qg 020 7499 7015

The Guinea Grill

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

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

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

111

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

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

020 7823 1888 info@mangotree.org.uk

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

Mount Street Printers

The Wolseley 160 Piccadilly, W1J 9EB 020 7499 6996

CaSinoS

Late night iCe-Cream Baskin-Robbins

Aspinalls

Edgware Road, W2 2HZ 020 7262 3918

28 Curzon Street, W1J 7TJ 020 7499 4599

Freggo Ice-cream Bar

24 Hertford Street, W1J 7SA 020 7495 5000

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

Crockfords Club

Gelupo

30 Curzon Street, W1J 7TN 020 7493 7771

7 Archer Street, W1D 7AU 020 7287 5555

Colony Club

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

RECHARGE AND RECUPERATE

Women’S hair

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

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

PARTY TIME

Henry Bonas events@henrybonas.com 020 3214 2099

dog grooming Mayfair Mutts

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top One Hair and Beauty Specialist’s 53 Berkeley Street, W1J 8EX 020 7629 6465

London Club International

Midnite Cookies

Spa Illuminata

10 Brick Street, W1J 7HQ 020 7518 0000

15 Exeter Street, WC2E 7DT 020 7836 5131

63 South Audley Street, W1K 2QS 020 7499 7777

SAMPLE THE FINEST

Parks Tower Casino

The Icecreamists

The Dorchester Spa

Aspinal of London

101 Knightsbridge SW1X 7RQ 020 7235 6161

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

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

0845 053 6900 enquires@aspinaloflondon.com

The Palm Beach Casino

memberS CLubS

men’S hair

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

30 Berkeley Street, W1J 8EH 020 7493 6585

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mango Tree 46 Grosvenor Place, SW1X 7EQ

Arts Club

Atherton Cox

40 Dover Street, W1S 4NP 020 7499 8581

18 New Cavendish Street, W1G 8UR 020 7487 4048

AURA

Sassoon Salon for Men

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

56 Brook Street, W1K 5NE 020 7399 6935

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

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

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

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

party pLanner Concorde Media

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

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

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

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

Nails Inc

020 7297 3344

41 South Molton Street, W1k 5RP 020 7499 8333

G&D Events

The Athenaeum

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

116 Piccadilly, W1J 7BJ 020 7499 3464

baCkgammon board

London Chess Shop

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

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

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

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

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

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

CONCIERGE

Jeff de Bruges

Nicolas

Burlington Jewellers

Pasha Clinic

13 South molton Street, W1K 5QW 020 7409 0213

11 Curzon Street, W1J 5h5 020 7629 1564

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

Rococo Chocolates

Vintage watCHes

10 - 11 Burlington arcade W1J 0Pg 020 7493 0777

45 marylebone high Street, W1U 5hg 020 7935 7780

Cigars

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

Guy & Max

Perfect Feet Spa

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

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

Sautter of Mount Street

Rolex Boutique

Hancocks & Co,

Selfridges & Co

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

61 Brompton Road, SW3 1DB 020 7581 7073

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

400 Oxford Street, W1a 1aB 0800 123 400

Fine wine

24 Burlington arcade, W1J 0ea 020 7499 2032

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

Jeroboams 20 Davies Street, W1K 3Dt 020 7499 1015

Suze in Mayfair

The Vintage Watch Co.

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

WEIRD AND THE WONDERFUL

J.Condrup

Burlington arcade, W1J 0QX 020 7491 9155

Michael Marks

rent a douBLe deCker Bus

58 Davies Street, W1K 5LP 020 7491 0332

Richard Ogden

Bespoke perFumes Clive Christian

Tiffany & Co.

Humidors

harrods, Knightsbridge 020 7730 1234

25 Old Bond Street, W1S 4QB 020 7409 2790

Linley

Floris

46 albemarle Street, W1S 4Jn 020 7290 1410

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

exotiC pyjamas

Sautter of Mount Street

Jo Malone

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

23 Brook Street, W1K 4ha 0870 192 5181

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

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

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

Luxury Liquor

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

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

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

Harrods

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

London Heritage Travel 01353 863273

This Bus.com 0845 4652 394

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

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

I-tesco

Louis Vuitton

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

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

sHotgun repairs

Myla

Anderson Wheeler

Bug deteCtors

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

13 Shepherd market, W1J 7PQ 020 7499 9315

London Detective, W1

Prada

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

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

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

Ralph Lauren

James Purdey & Sons Ltd

1 new Bond Street, W1a 3RL 020 7535 4600

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

Sweepers De-Bugging Service

Gerry’s Wines & Spirits

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

74 Old Compton Street, W1D 4UW 020 7734 2053

diamonds VaLued

Harrods

Armour Winston

87 - 135 Brompton Road SW1X 7XL 020 7730 1234

43 Burlington arcade, W1J 0QQ 020 7493 8937

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

Ladurée

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

28 Burlington arcade, W1J 0nX 020 7493 9136

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

London’s Best Hot CHoCoLate

FisH pediCure

Holland and Holland

Aqua Sheko

William & Son

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

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

113

PROPERTY

FeatURed

Estate Agents

m

TRUSTE

n

信任

KnightSBRidge OFFiCe 82 Brompton Road SW3 1eR 020 7225 6506

Years of Property

sa

Доверие ende

n

ue

a

Pasit

ikėjim

as

ci

je

ren

du

vje

Fi

Po

maYFaiR - lettingS 120a mount Street W1K 3nn Attracting buyers and tenants 020 7499 1012

www.harrodsestates.com

from around the world

maRYleBOne - SaleS 120a mount Street W1K 3nn 020 7483 8349

London & Country Estate Agents

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

Kensington&Chelsea mag Mar12.indd 8

Home House Estates Hamptons International

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

ChelSea - lettingS 134 Fulham Road OUR SERVICE WILL MOVE YOU SW10 9PY 020 7717 5433

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

th

nie

s

amu

ae

ol

ed

iri

dd

Za

Εμπιστοσύνη

ufa

maYFaiR - SaleS 120a mount Street W1K 3nn 020 7499 1012

Ym

rtra Ve

maYFaiR OFFiCe 61 Park lane W1K 1QF 020 7409 9001

www.faronsutaria.co.uk

www.sothebysrealty.com

Förtro

18 Knight Frank 72 - 2 012

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

E MEWS, SW5

140

nza

Confia

Luott

NON YARD, W11

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

D

ra

ve

Dô

R GEN E FO

IONS AT R

Güve

U

alo

ça

Biz

Harrods Estates

an

Faron Sutaria

ya

n fia

SALES & LETTINGS

uwen

www.johndwood.co.uk on

onsutaria.co.uk

rca

pe

ke

www.chestertonhumberts.com

C

ReSidential SaleS 020 7629 4513 ReSidential lettingS 020 7288 8301

26a Conduit Street W1S 2XY 020 7495 9580 us

www.hamptons-int.com

London Sotheby’s International Realty

ld

BelgRaVia OFFiCe 48 elizabeth Street SW1W 9Pa 020 7824 7900 Vertro

maYFaiR OFFiCe 47 South audley Street W1K 2Qa

John D Wood

トラ スト

Chesterton Humberts

PimliCO and WeStminSteR SaleS 50 Belgrave Road SW1V 1RQ 020 7834 4771

Trust

www.beauchamp.co.uk

PaddingtOn and BaYSWateR SaleS 4C Praed Street W2 1JX 020 7717 5473

24 Curzon Street W1J 7tF 020 7499 7722

Confi ance

Beauchamp Estates

maYFaiR - lettingS 32 grosvenor Square W1K 2hJ 020 7717 5467

Strutt & Parker

lOndOn head OFFiCe 13 hill Street W1J 5lQ 020 7629 7282

KnightSBRidge OFFiCe 66 Sloane Street www.johndwood.co.uk SW1X 9Sh 020 7235 9959 08/02/2012 13:31

www.struttandparker.com

www.knightfrank.co.uk

21 Woodstock Street W1C 2aP 020 7493 1911

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

helsea mag Mar12.indd 19

W.A. Ellis

www.homehouseestates.co.uk

174 Brompton Road SW3 1hP 020 7306 1600

08/02/2012 13:34

KnightSBRidge - lettingS 168 Brompton Road SW3 1hW 020 7717 5463 maYFaiR - SaleS 32 grosvenor Square W1K 2hJ 020 7717 5465

Horne & Harvey Est. 1803

Horne & Harvey

Savills

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

maYFaiR OFFiCe 36 north audley Street W1K 6zJ 020 7578 5100

www.horneandharvey.co.uk

www.savills.co.uk

www.waellis.co.uk

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

114

Old fashioned manners meet modern methods.

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

At W.A.Ellis, traditional values like reliability, honesty and polite professionalism underpin our boutique service. And the same

Leading London Estate Agents and Chartered Surveyors Partner will work with you from start to finish.

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

showcasing the

finest hoMes & PRoPeRtY fRoM the best estate agents

INSIDER KNOWLEDGE Property market tips

Exclusive properties

Beauchamp Estates www.beauchamp.co.uk

Tips on how to source the best homes on the market

Knight Frank

Macklin Street, Covent Garden WC2 3 Bedroom Penthouse

A stunning, modern and spacious penthouse in the heart of Covent Garden. This apartment is one of 8 within this ultra modern warehouse conversion, complete with 3 private roof terraces and secure underground parking. Large windows and well placed roof terraces provide panoramic views of the city, while a carefully planned interior optimises the feeling of space within this exceptional apartment. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, reception room, kitchen.

Leasehold: 112 years approximately Guide price: ÂŁ2,900,000 (WER110120)

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

Knight Frank Dunraven Street, Mayfair W1 Newly Modernised 3 Bedroom Flat A stylish and contemporary duplex apartment in this corner building with 3 bedrooms. The property has been thoughtfully designed to maximise on natural light and the feeling of space.

3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, reception room, kitchen.

Leasehold: 113 years approximately Guide price: ÂŁ2,650,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/Mayfair mayfair@knightfrank.com 020 8166 7482 (WER110124)

Grosvenor Square, Mayfair W1K 2 Bedroom Flat In Prime Block An ideal two bedroom apartment situated in this highly regarded building on the preferred North side of Grosvenor Square. This bright 2nd floor property further benefits from 24 hour porterage.

2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, reception room, kitchen.

Leasehold: 22 years approximately Guide price: ÂŁ1,200,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/Mayfair mayfair@knightfrank.com 020 8166 7482 (WER110032)

Knight Frank St George Street, Mayfair W1S

Contemporary duplex with balcony and parking Perfectly located for the best of the West End, this stylish split-level apartment consists of 2 double bedrooms, en suite bathroom, shower room, open plan reception room, kitchen, air conditioning, balcony, lift and parking space. Furnished.

ÂŁ1,750 per week

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

(142843)

Carlos Place, Mayfair W1K

Extensive apartment, exclusive situation Located in a premier Mayfair position, the spacious split-level accommodation comprises master bedroom with en suite bathroom, 2 further bedrooms, guest bathroom, reception room with balcony over exclusive Mount Street, kitchen, dining room, guest WC, lift and porter.

Furnished.

ÂŁ2,200 per week

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

(104015)

Knight Frank Charles Street, Mayfair W1K

Stylish split-level space Located on one of Mayfair’s most desirable streets, accommodation comprises master bedroom suite, 2 further bedrooms, 2 further bathrooms, kitchen/dining room, guest WC, lift. Furnished.

£2,600 per week

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

(92773)

Green Street, Mayfair W1K

Architecturally exceptional triplex The newly developed living space comprises 2 double bedrooms with en suite marble bathrooms, third en suite bedroom/study, kitchen, open plan reception/dining room with turret-style corner bay window, guest WC, roof terrace and lift. Unfurnished.

£4,750 per week

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

(157272)

Knight Frank

Portland Place, Marylebone W1 A Four Bedroom Duplex Penthouse Apartment

This very rarely available duplex penthouse apartment benefits from generous ceiling heights and an abundance of natural light. Comprising master bedroom suite, 2nd bedroom suite, 2 further bedrooms, shower room, reception room with open plan kitchen and dining area, study. Further benefits include air conditioning, porter, lift and access to Park Crescent and Park Square gardens.

Approximately 180 sq.m (1,938 sq.ft).

Leasehold 907 years approximately ÂŁ3,500,000 (MRY120025)

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

Knight Frank

Montagu Square, Marylebone W1 A Beautiful Two Bedroom Garden Apartment

Situated on one of Marylebone’s finest squares, this beautiful two bedroom lateral apartment has been finished to an exceptionally high standard. Comprising two double bedrooms both with en suite bathrooms and French windows leading out onto the patio garden, reception room, kitchen, spacious entrance hall currently used as a dining area. The apartment further benefits from its own separate entrance, underfloor heating and an integrated sound system. Approximately 123 sq.m (1,324 sq.ft).

Leasehold 80 years approximately ÂŁ1,650,000 (MRY120008)

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

■ UK ■ Europe ■ India ■ Middle East ■ Malaysia ■ The Americas

Breakdown of nationalities buying properties from Savills Mayfair and Marylebone in 2011 – thanks to our global network of more than 200 offices and associates.

Far and away the best way to let your home is to show it to people far away.

More More than than you’re you’re looking lookingfor. for.

SA59812 RUNWILD Sold DPS.indd 1

savills.co.uk

15/02/2012 11:34

SA

11:34

Here are a selection of properties we have recently sold in Mayfair.

sold

sold

sold

Charles Street, W1 Guide £15.995 million

Culross Street, W1 Guide £4.95 million

Bruton Place, W1 Guide £4.25 million

sold

sold

sold

Curzon Street, W1 Guide £3.395 million

Green Street, W1 Guide £3.95 million

Chesterfield Street, W1 Guide £3.5 million

sold

sold

sold

Aldford Street, W1 Guide £1.95 million

Hertford Street, W1 Guide £1.75 million

Curzon Street, W1 Guide £1.3 million

Savills Mayfair 36 North Audley Street, London W1K 6ZJ. 020 7578 5100. mayfair@savills.com

SA59812 RUNWILD Sold DPS.indd 2

15/02/2012 11:41

H a y s M e w s London W1

Contemporary, newly refurbished townhouse situated in a prestigious Mayfair Mews.

Accommodation Entrance hall, reception room, kitchen/dining room, master bedroom with en suite bathroom and dressing room, 2 further bedroom suites, cinema room, utility room, 2 guest cloakrooms, garage, lift, roof terrace, 309 sq m (3,325 sq ft)

Terms Tenure - Freehold Price - Guide ÂŁ6.95 million subject to contract

271377_Sav_MayfairMag_MAR12.indd 1

16/02/2012 13:00

13:00

savills.co.uk

1 CONTEMPORARY APARTMENT IN PERIOD CONVERSION charles street, w1 Entrance hall ø double reception room ø family room ø study ø kitchen/breakfast room ø master bedroom with en suite bathroom and dressing area ø 2 further bedroom suites ø cloakroom ø shower room ø patio ø 239 sq m (2,565 sq ft)

Guide £3.95 million Leasehold, plus Share of Freehold

Savills Mayfair Charles Lloyd clloyd@savills.com

020 7578 5100

savills.co.uk

1 IMPRESSIVE LATERAL APARTMENT IN THE HEART OF MAYFAIR south street, w1 3 bedrooms all with en suite bathrooms ø double reception room ø kitchen ø guest cloakroom ø 189 sq m (2,036 sq ft)

Savills Mayfair Guy Bradshaw gbradshaw@savills.com

020 7578 5101 £3,500 per week Unfurnished

savills.co.uk

1 AN EXCEPTIONAL TRIPLEX PENTHOUSE APARTMENT green street, w1 2 bedrooms both with en suite bathrooms ø 2 reception rooms ø study ø kitchen ø bathroom ø guest cloakroom ø roof terrace ø 246 sq m (2,648 sq ft)

Savills Mayfair Guy Bradshaw gbradshaw@savills.com

020 7578 5101 £4,750 per week Unfurnished

Hamptons Mayfair

020 7717 5465 mayfair@hamptons-int.com

Hill Street, W1 SOLD - A superb upper triplex apartment arranged over the third, fourth and fifth floors of a substantial redbrick period building in the heart of Mayfair. The property has direct lift access to the third floor and is presented in excellent condition throughout.

Hamptons Mayfair 020 7717 5465 mayfair@hamptons-int.com

In the year of medals, we are already on a winning streak.

Hamptons International Silver for Best for UK Large Estate Agency and Best for Marketing.

ÂŁ4,450,000 Leasehold Large Reception Room Kitchen Dining Room Four Bedrooms Three Bathrooms Balcony And Roof Terrace Private Lift

Hamptons Mayfair

020 7717 5467 mayfairlettings@hamptons-int.com

Bickenhall Mansions, W1

ÂŁ1,300 per week

A spacious apartment comprising of a large reception room with wooden floors, eat in kitchen, three double bedrooms and three bathrooms. Located on the first floor of a portered building, this property is ideally situated for the amenities of Baker Street and the stunning Regents Park.

Hamptons Mayfair Lettings 020 7717 5467 mayfairlettings@hamptons-int.com

Large Reception Room Eat In Kitchen Three Double Bedrooms Three Bathrooms Lift Porter

Here. There. Everywhere. We were the first UK estate agency to launch an app for iPad, and an app for iPhone, and our website has hundreds of thousands of visitors each month. Wether you want to buy, sell, let or rent, it couldn’t be easier.

Hamptons Chelsea

020 7717 5433 chelsealettings@hamptons-int.com

Onslow Gardens, SW7 A beautifully presented one bedroom apartment with high ceilings on this popular garden square. Close to South Kensington tube station, this property offers plenty of space with a large reception room leading onto a West facing balcony.

Hamptons Chelsea 020 7717 5433 chelsealettings@hamptons-int.com

In the year of medals, we are already on a winning streak.

Hamptons International Silver for Best for UK Large Estate Agency and Best for Marketing.

ÂŁ925 per week 1 Bedroom 1 Large Reception Room Separate Kitchen Balcony Garden Square

Hamptons Knightsbridge

020 7717 5463 knightsbridgelettings@hamptons-int.com

Brompton Road, SW3

ÂŁ2,950 per week Furnished

Newly refurbished luxury three bedroom apartment offering hardwood floors, open plan kitchen, lift, 24 hour porter, terrace with extensive views and a prestigious Knightsbridge location.

Hamptons Knightsbridge Lettings 020 7717 5463 knightsbridgelettings@hamptons-int.com

Bright Reception Room 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms Terrace 24 Hour Porter Lift

Here. There. Everywhere. We were the first UK estate agency to launch an app for iPad, and an app for iPhone, and our website has hundreds of thousands of visitors each month. Wether you want to buy, sell, let or rent, it couldn’t be easier.

Hamptons Paddington 020 7717 5473

protopapasa@hamptons-int.com

Sheldon Square, W2 A spectacular twelfth floor penthouse with breathtaking panoramic views across London.

Offering lateral space, it has been designed and fitted to the highest specification. Comprising five luxurious bedrooms (all ensuite), a bespoke kitchen and two reception rooms. One of the most spectacular penthouse apartments to come onto the market in central London recently.

Paddington & Bayswater 020 7717 5473 protopapasa@hamptons-int.com

In the year of medals, we are already on a winning streak.

Hamptons International Silver for Best for UK Large Estate Agency and Best for Marketing.

ÂŁ6,500,000 Leasehold Penthouse apartment 12th Floor (with direct lift access) 2 Reception rooms 5 Bedrooms Roof terrace (with Jacuzzi) 2 Car parking spaces

Hamptons Pimlico & Westminster 020 7834 4771

pimwest@hamptons-int.com

Cambridge Street, SW1

ÂŁ4,450,000 Freehold

This is a very fine and beautifully modernised five/six bedroom, four bathroom family house extending to circa 4200 sq.ft, with ample entertaining space. An exceptional refurbishment programme has just been completed to restore the house, ensuring an excellent finish is achieved to combine modern living with period charm.

Pimlico & Westminister 020 7834 4771 pimwest@hamptons-int.com

2 Reception rooms Kitchen/Dining room/Family room Staff accommodation 5/6 Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms Cinema room & Roof terrace

Here. There. Everywhere. We were the first UK estate agency to launch an app for iPad, and an app for iPhone, and our website has hundreds of thousands of visitors each month. Wether you want to buy, sell, let or rent, it couldn’t be easier.

AYFAI

M

R

M

Re

coM Mend

s

HoT properTy:

Wimpole Street, W1

elegant and contemporary apartment on one of London’s most desirable streets

This beautiful, unique apartment, split over three floors and boasting the very latest in technology, offers the ultimate in sophisticated living. Two stunning Georgian houses have been linked together, providing a huge double reception room, high ceilings and a lavishly spacious area for entertaining. There are also traditional luxury features including exquisite wood flooring,

a glass atrium, a sunken Jacuzzi with rain shower, sauna and cinema room. This stylish property is brilliantly located for the boutique shops and restaurants of Marylebone High Street and the chic stores of Bond Street, and very well served by local underground transport links with both Baker Street and Bond Street nearby.

PROPERTY

Longford House, 24 Wimpole Street, W1G ÂŁ4,250,000

Harrods Estates 020 7225 6506 www.harrodsestates.com

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

135

800 800 MILLION MILLION PEOPLE PEOPLE LIKE YOUR PROPERTY LIKE YOUR PROPERTY

this month’s

mayfair Home to buy

Join Join oneone of the of the firstfirst estate estate agents agents to offer to offer a a property search function within Facebook property search function within Facebook

SoUtH aUdleY Street w1k

£3,995,000 share of freehold

A substantial Mayfair apartment set within a highly regarded purpose built ported block with views of Hyde Park.

Comprising a spacious hallway, west facing double reception/dining room, kitchen, 3 double bedrooms (2 with en-suites), shower room, cloakroom & limited off street parking.

Mayfair Sales

020 7629 4513

v

sales.mayfair@chestertonhumberts.com

chestertonhumberts.com

Upper Brook Street w1k

£4,425,000 leasehold

A 1st floor, south facing period apartment with views over Grosvenor Square. Comprising a double reception/dining room, kitchen, 2 double bedrooms (with en-suites) & utility room. Long lease.

Hertford Street w1J

£1,950,000 leasehold

A stunning 7th floor double aspect penthouse set within a fine Art Deco building with views across London. Benefiting from a reception room, kitchen, 3 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, lift access & porter. Long lease.

Mayfair Sales

020 7629 4513

v

sales.mayfair@chestertonhumberts.com

CHeSterfield GardenS w1j

£875,000 share of the freehold

A spacious apartment situated within a fine Mayfair portered building with a large reception room, double bedroom, kitchen, cloakroom & bathroom.

dUke Street St JameS’S sw1y

£615,000 share of freehold

A superb 4th floor (with lift) apartment set within a period building in the heart of St James. Offering an open plan reception/kitchen, bedroom, shower room, wood floors, entry phone & caretaker.

Mayfair Sales

020 7629 4513

v

sales.mayfair@chestertonhumberts.com

chestertonhumberts.com

800 800 MILLION MILLION PEOPLE PEOPLE LIKE YOUR PROPERTY LIKE YOUR PROPERTY

this month’s

mayfair Home to rent

Join Join oneone of the of the firstfirst estate estate agents agents to offer to offer a a property search function within Facebook property search function within Facebook

Green Street w1k

ÂŁ1,675 per week

A contemporary 2 bedroom apartment extending to approx. 1,055 sq ft & finished to the highest of standards.

Located on the 2nd floor of this prestigious building & benefiting from wood flooring, comfort cooling, a feature fireplace & daytime building manager.

Mayfair Lettings

020 7288 8301

v

lettings.mayfair@chestertonhumberts.com

chestertonhumberts.com

St JameS plaCe sw1a

Green Street w1k

£2, 750 per week

A spacious period house of approx 3,600 sq ft & situated in the heart of St James & within close proximity to St James’ Park. The property comprises 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 3 reception rooms, wood flooring & feature fireplaces.

£1,550 per week

A fabulous 2 bedroom apartment completely renovated to a high quality & flooded with natural light. Located on the 1st floor of this period red brick building in one of Mayfair’s most premier streets.

Mayfair Lettings

020 7288 8301

v

lettings.mayfair@chestertonhumberts.com

portland plaCe w1b

£995 per week

CHeSterfield HoUSe w1j

A modern 4th floor, 2 bedroom apartment superbly located moments from Regent’s Park & right in the heart of Marylebone. Benefiting from wood flooring throughout, lift access & a porter.

£795 per week

A 2 bedroom apartment on the 6th floor (with lift) of this this popular portered block located close to Hyde Park. Comprising a large double reception room & modern fully fitted kitchen.

Mayfair Lettings

020 7288 8301

v

lettings.mayfair@chestertonhumberts.com

chestertonhumberts.com

New Cavendish Street, Marylebone W1 Residential Investment Opportunity.

Grade II listed period property located in the heart of Marylebone • Five flats • One commercial unit at ground floor level producing an annual income of £126,140 & with a gross internal area (excluding vaults) of 4,111 sq ft

Guide Price £3,500,000 Leasehold with approximately 901 years remaining

Over 550 Offices in 46 Countries

3009_1.indd 1

Casper Tham

020 7495 9583

casper.tham@sothebysrealty.co.uk Guy Stebbings JSA 020 7861 5413 guy.stebbings@knightfrank.com

sothebysrealty.co.uk

2/2/2012 1:00:35 PM

299

PM

Derby Street, Mayfair W1

A charming Mayfair townhouse just off Curzon Street, close to Hyde Park.

Two reception rooms • Five bedrooms • Three bathrooms Roof terrace • 2,798 sq ft / 252 sq m

Casper Tham

020 7495 9583

casper.tham@sothebysrealty.co.uk

Guide Price £4,750,000 Freehold

Over 550 Offices in 46 Countries

2998_1.indd 1

sothebysrealty.co.uk

2/1/2012 5:53:35 PM

Jermyn Street, St James's W1

Fifth floor apartment with 24 hour porterage in the heart of St James's.

Two bedrooms • Two en-suite bathrooms • Reception room Kitchen/breakfast room • Guest cloakroom • Lift Secure off-street car parking space • 24 hour porterage

Svetlana Shcholokova

020 7495 9591

svetlana.shcholokova@sothebysrealty.co.uk

Guide Price £2,250,000 Leasehold with approximately 103 years remaining

Over 550 Offices in 46 Countries

3000_1.indd 1

sothebysrealty.co.uk

2/1/2012 5:54:06 PM

300

PM

Clarges Street, Mayfair W1

A fifth floor penthouse apartment with roof terrace and conservatory.

Double reception/dining room • Kitchen • Cloakroom Master bedroom with en-suite • Two/three further bedrooms Lift • Conservatory • Roof terrace • Porter • Parking

Svetlana Shcholokova

020 7495 9591

svetlana.shcholokova@sothebysrealty.co.uk

Guide Price £5,250,000 Leasehold with approximately 95 years remaining

Over 550 Offices in 46 Countries

3001_1.indd 1

sothebysrealty.co.uk

2/1/2012 5:54:31 PM

PROPERTY

Expert comment LettingS: Mayfair looks set to benefit from increased demand in 2012

the residential lettings market in London enjoyed a very successful 2011 as rents reached record levels.

Erik HolmgrEn, associate director of Chesterton humberts’ mayfair office reflects on how the prime London lettings market looks set to perform in 2012 Despite the less than positive predictions for the 2011 property market, Chesterton humberts’ mayfair office assisted its clients in agreeing a record number of lettings transactions last year. So, while it is anticipated that the sales market will see only low levels of growth this year, i believe that lettings will remain buoyant. We are already experiencing high numbers of international investors looking for secure assets producing a steady income, as well as plenty of corporate clients looking to rent.

With the market currently weighted in favour of landlords and the much-hyped ‘Olympic lettings’ season approaching, i expect the 2012 central London lettings market to be characterised by a greater demand for short-let properties, more tenants chasing longer term tenancy agreements and shorter

148

void periods. the traditional one year tenancy is increasingly being rejected by tenants in favour of a more secure, longer term tenancy and many current tenants are choosing to renew their existing tenancies at increased levels of rent. however, the prospect of a steady and reliable income should not be assumed. With mayfair being one of the most expensive areas in the whole country to live, the expectations of tenants looking to move here and to other prime London locations tend to be high, so for mayfair landlords to be successful in renting their properties, they must meet the high standards expected by the people likely to rent them. my advice to landlords is simple: present your properties to the standard of the type of tenant you would expect to rent it. Contemporary apartments finished and dressed to a high standard achieve the best levels of rent and have the fewest void periods. now is the perfect time to pay attention to any maintenance or presentation issues and get your property ready for what i anticipate will be a lively and competitive spring market in the capital. if you are a tenant looking for the perfect property in mayfair or a landlord either looking to maximise your rental income or expand your current portfolio, please do contact me or drop into the office on South audley Street.

Erik Holmgren, Associate Director Mayfair Lettings (020 7288 8301; www.chestertonhumberts.com)

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

the smart way to BUY or SELL your property

A service defined by discretion and dedication that will save you time and money. His extensive experience in property consultancy takes the pain and effort out of the buying and selling process, and any problems that you would usually encounter, become his problems and not yours. After all, achieving the best possible outcome in anything is all about finding someone who can do the job better than you.

work smarter, not harder.

T: 020 7499 3434 M: 078 3146 5414 simon@simonbarnes.com www.simonbarnes.com

Whitehall Court SW1 A beautiful apartment with three interconnecting reception rooms and a balcony the length of the apartment with stunning views over the River Thames in this sought after portered Victorian block. The apartment would be ideal for entertaining.

leasehold

Poa

Whitehall Court SW1

Whitehall Court SW1

A unique three bedroom, two bathroom apartment on the 7th and 8th floors of this prestigious and elegant building. The apartment boasts a spacious roof terrace with stunning views over Buckingham Palace and St James’s.

A charming spacious one bedroom apartment on the first floor of this highly sought after Victorian mansion block. Boasting period features and high ceilings.

leasehold

leasehold

020 7839 6006

23a St James’s Street, London, SW1A 1HA

£1,850,000

£980,000

Horne & Harvey Est. 1803

ST JAMES’S STREET SW1 A spacious sixth floor apartment located in the heart of St James’s. This two bedroom apartment has direct lift access, is exceptionally light and has been finished and furnished to a very high standard with wood flooring and air-conditioning.

Furnished

£1200 per week

dE vERE gARdEnS W8

BRAy HouSE SW1

A wonderful 2 bedroom apartment ideally situated just minutes from Hyde Park, Kensington High Street and the museums of S. Kensington. On the 5th floor of this period portered building the apartment boasts wooden floors throughout, a spacious roof terrace and an abundance of natural light.

An excellent one bedroom apartment situated on the first floor of this portered building in the heart of St James’s. Duke of York Street is close to Piccadilly and all the theatres, restaurants, clubs and shops of the West End.

unfurnished

Furnished

£700 per week

£460 per week

www.horneandharvey.co.uk

Park Lane, Mayfair, W1 This superb three bedroom apartment in the prestigious building of 55 Park Lane has been recently refurbished to an excellent standard.

In brief this modern property consists of an L-shaped reception with separate kitchen, marble flooring, cloakroom, family bathroom with separate shower, three double bedrooms including master bedroom suite with dressing room. The apartment also benefits from 24 hour concierge and good security.

Available, furnished

ÂŁ3,000 per week 020 7409 9158 robin.boghhenrikssen@harrodsestates.com

kniGHTSBriDGe OffiCe: 82 BrOMPTOn rOaD LOnDOn SW3 1er T: +44 020 7225 6506 Mayfair OffiCe: 61 Park Lane LOnDOn W1k 1Qf T: +44 020 7409 9001

HarrODSeSTaTeS.COM

SOuTH AuDLEY STREET, MAYFAIR, W1 In a most prestigious location, a sophisticated period house of elegant proportions with marvellous architectural details combined with stunning interiors styled in a contemporary fashion. Accommodation is arranged over six floors complemented by a passenger lift and consists of double reception room, dining room leading onto a further reception room, fully fitted kitchen/breakfast room, master bedroom with en suite bathroom, guest bedroom with en suite bathroom, two further double bedrooms with shared en suite bathroom, maid’s room with en suite shower room, three guest cloak rooms, utility room and courtyard. £8,495,000 020 7409 9047 robert.cox@harrodsestates.com

KNIGHTSBRIDGE OFFICE: 82 BROMPTON ROAD LONDON SW3 1ER T: +44 020 7225 6506 MAYFAIR OFFICE: 61 PARK LANE LONDON W1K 1QF T: +44 020 7409 9001

HARRODSESTATES.COM

BURTON MEWS, SW1 A spacious house with a garage in a secluded Belgravia mews.

4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms (2 en suite), reception room, study, patio.

Freehold Guide Price £3,695,000

LYALL MEWS, SW1 A delightful end-of-terrace mews house, which has been tastefully modernised to a high specification.

3 bedrooms, 2 en suite bathrooms, shower room, 2 reception rooms, roof terrace, parking.

Freehold Guide Price £2,795,000

BELGRAVIA 020 7824 7900 belgravia@johndwood.co.uk

Mayfair mag Mar12.indd 1

www.johndwood.co.uk

15/02/2012 11:53

Ma

TRUSTE

anza Confi

ance

R GEN E FO

Years of Property

tikėji mas

ren je

ia

s

Pasi

h

t ae

ol ed

nie

ufa

vje

e

iri dd Ym

Za

Po

Förtr

oend

tamu Luot

uc

Доверие

72 - 2 012

Εμπιστοσύνη

Fi d

D

140 18

en

u rtra

Ve

D

ra

e ôv

IONS AT R

信任

トラ スト U sa ld us

m

n

Confi

n

alo

Güve

Trust

uwen

o Vertr

aa ay erc

p ke

a nç fia on C

11:53

Biz

Attracting buyers and tenants from around the world London & Country Estate Agents

Mayfair mag Mar12.indd 2

www.johndwood.co.uk

15/02/2012 11:53

faronsutaria.co.uk

SALES & LETTINGS

ONSLOW GARDENS, SW7 A stylish and comfortable flat with many bespoke design features and open-plan living room/kitchen, leading directly onto communal gardens. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, cloakroom. ÂŁ2,150,000 Leasehold 020 7590 0300 southken@faronsutaria.co.uk

OUR SERVICE WILL MOVE YOU

Mayfair mag Mar12.indd 3

15/02/2012 11:53

Ma

11:53

SALES & LETTINGS

OUR EXPANDED NETWORK GIVES US STRENGTH Our recent expansion to 10 offices across London and the power of our innovative marketing enables us to attract more and more local, national and overseas buyers and tenants. If you are considering selling or letting, we’d love to hear from you.

CAMDEN • CHELSEA • CHISWICK • EARLS COURT • FULHAM ISLINGTON • NOTTING HILL • SHEPHERDS BUSH • SOUTH KENSINGTON

faronsutaria.co.uk

Mayfair mag Mar12.indd 4

15/02/2012 11:54

PROPERTY

In your best interest

Property consultant Simon BarneS talks to The Mayfair Magazine about offering a service defined by discretion and dedication Property consultancy can be a mixed bag, how do you ensure someone is working only for you, sourcing the best and most exclusive properties and utilising a wealth of extensive and far-reaching contacts to offer you the best properties available on the market – and also those that aren’t? if you’re selling, then are they the best person to find you the right buyers and ensure you are getting a great price; do they protect your interests and your reputation, over their own? if you’re using them for property management, are they looking after your tenants, and are they looking after you? is their discretion assured, and can you turn to them for any queries or concerns however complex or sensitive? and, ultimately, how can you be sure of this? ‘it’s really down to reputation,’ says Simon Barnes, a property consultant working in mayfair and Belgravia with more than 20 years experience. ‘90 per cent of my business comes from recommendations and word of mouth, it’s important to use someone whose reputation you can trust.’ and Barnes has worked hard to ensure this reputation remains immaculate. ‘i moved from working with larger companies to becoming independent because i wanted to be able to offer the clients i’d worked with a more comprehensive service. now the people i deal with have been my clients, often for many years, and i’ve worked with them on selling and buying several houses. i can even be there when they want to diversify and start renting out their property, or even buying businesses – a restaurant, a shop etc. in the same way that you can visit your lawyer for all your legal needs my clients work with me for all their property needs over a long period of time.’

Working with someone who specialises in what they do and can take a lot

160

of the hassle out of buying and selling a property can be a godsend. Barnes’ clients benefit from not only his considerable expertise, but his extensive contacts built up over years of working with and specialising in high end luxury properties bought and sold off-market. ‘i’ve built up a solid rapport with buyers, sellers, agents, lawyers and surveyors. my relationship with the key agents, for instance, is so good that when i ring an agent about a property they’ll take it seriously. that’s the kind of credibility that gets me – and therefore my clients – to the front of the queue, and they’re often the first to hear about an exciting property.’ in addition, one of the keys to Barnes’ success is that he only ever works for three or four clients at a time, ensuring there is no conflict, and he can divide his time as they need it. ‘this is not a mass market thing, three or four active clients is as much as i can, and want to, deal with, because then i can offer them the level of service they expect, and deserve. and i tailor it accordingly, depending on what they want. it’s a hands-on process, i deal with all my clients personally, and i can adapt to what suits them.’ in today’s economic climate, buying and selling property can be a delicate and complex process. Often those people who are spending large amounts of money on a property are understandably keen to ensure the purchase is as discreet as possible. ‘People don’t want to be seen to be splashing cash,’ says Barnes. ‘they want their names kept out of it, to ensure a level playing field – discretion is vital. this is happening more and more in the last five years, so my approach, more so than ever now, is very low key. acting for my clients, i can get straight to the source buyer or seller, acting as an intermediary, and this is vital. i ensure a minimum of fuss and exposure.’ the bottom line is that this is expertise you can’t match, and it’s invaluable. ‘achieving the best possible outcome in anything is all about finding someone who can do the job better than you,’ finishes Barnes.

‘Working smarter, not harder.’

Simon Barnes Property Consultants 020 7499 3434 078 3146 5414

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

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

Leading London Estate Agents and Chartered Surveyors Telephone +44 (0)20 7493 1911 www.HomeHouseEstates.co.uk

Chelsea Fulham & Parsons Green Kensington & Holland Park Knightsbridge, Belgravia & Mayfair Notting Hill & Bayswater West Chelsea & South Kensington

struttandparker.com

Sales 020 Sales 020 Sales 020 Sales 020 Sales 020 Sales 020

7225 7731 7938 7235 7221 7373

3866 7100 3666 9959 1111 1010

Lettings 020 Lettings 020 Lettings 020 Lettings 020 Lettings 020 Lettings 020

7589 7731 7938 7235 7221 7373

9966 7100 3866 9959 1111 1010

City Office Professional Valuations UK Commercial & Residential Residential Investment Property Management

020 020 020 020 020

7600 7318 7629 7318 7052

3456 5039 7282 5196 9417

Chester Square | Belgravia | SW1W 8,215 sq ft (763 sq m)

Refurbished and interior designed by Finchatton to a very high standard including lift, air conditioning, Crestron AV and Lutron lighting throughout.

Drawing room | Dining room | Kitchen/breakfast room | Family room | Study | Six bedroom suites | Staff rooms | Lift | Gym | Steam room | Cinema | Double Garage | Roof terrace Asking price ÂŁ32,500,000 Freehold

Knightsbridge 020 7235 9959

JSA Savills 020 7581 5234

Scan this QR code with your camera phone to read more about this property.

Free QR code readers are available to download from our website at struttandparker.com/qrcode

We prefer not to be measured by dimensions.

Unless it’s a new dimension of accuracy.

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

set the watch with one-second accuracy in the first place. Never before has an A. Lange & Söhne watch been endowed with so many complications that simultaneously enhance its rate accuracy, settability, and readability. And so, this remarkable timepiece truly deserves the honorary attribute “Pour le Mérite”.

Arije 165, Sloane Street London • George Pragnell 5 and 6, Wood Street, Stratford-upon-Avon Hamilton & Inches 87, George Street, Edinburgh • Harrods 87–135 Brompton Road, Knightsbridge, London Watches of Switzerland 16, New Bond Street, London • Wempe 43-44, New Bond Street, London Lange Uhren GmbH • Tel. +34 91 454 89 82 • www.lange-soehne.com

Final_JT_UK_N_KensingtonAndChelsea_RLT_PLM_PG_210x297_ATMO-026-12.indd 1

08.02.2012 15:52:48 Uhr