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Contents | The mayfair Magazine

Contents November 2014 Features 022 | Malice in wonderland We remember the life and work of Cecil Beaton as a new exhibition arrives at Mayfair’s Sibyl Colefax & John Fowler 050 | What’s in a name? We celebrate the iconic status of Louis Vuitton’s monogram, as six icons reinterpret the LV symbol 062 | By the book Prosper Assouline on the beauty of books and Assouline’s new maison on Piccadilly 067 | Anglo-anarchism Dame Vivienne Westwood bares her personality as her deeply personal book arrives

regulars 068 | The king of kitsch We find out why artist Jeff Koons will never lose his cool 072 | Annabel’s after dark Your access-all-areas pass to Annabel’s, as a new film charting its history arrives at the Curzon cinema 076 | Second nature Richard Yarrow takes the Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II for a spin; a dream drive for lovers of bespoke

014 | Contributors 016 | Editor’s letter 019 | My life in Mayfair: Mark Henderson, co-founder, The New Craftsmen

038

020 | Couture culture Our latest dispatch on the arts, film and theatre releases 103 | Remembering Mayfair: Fenwick

019

034

Collection 076

029 | SalonQP 2014 The UK’s largest premium watch exhibition returns to the Saatchi Gallery

Art

030 | Jewellery news 055 | Art news 056 | Prize lots 058 | Exhibition focus: ‘Giovanni Battista Moroni’ at the Royal Academy of Arts

032 | Belle of the ball Lose yourself in a fairy-tale with whimsical fine jewellery for her 034 | Changing spots Cartier’s panther collection celebrates its 100th anniversary 037 | Watch news

022 10

055

038 | Absolutely fabuleux We meet Vacheron Constantin’s artistic director to discuss the latest elegant arrival

www.theofennell.com

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Contents | The mayfair Magazine

Contents November 2014 044

101

Food & Drink 099 | Food & drink news 100 | Shanghai nights Exquisite evenings out and private events at Bright Courtyard Club

Fashion

101 | Dining out: CUT at 45 Park Lane

041 | Style spy 042 | Style update

Property

044 | Coat check It’s all eyes on elegant outerwear in this month’s fashion story

126 | PrimeResi news PrimeResi.com brings us the latest news in property 136 | A tale of two cities A new report from Pastor Real Estate finds parallels between Monaco and prime central London

088

Travel 081 | Travel news

066

Interiors 061 | Interiors news

000

066 | The shape of things to come Guillaume Alan’s Savile Row-inspired A/W14 collection 12

082 | A star is born Cruises are having a moment; Laura Blinder sets sail to find out why 088 | City break: Venice Explore the city that seemingly floats on water in all of its cultural charm 090 | Suite dreams: Hotel Café Royal, Regent Street

093

Beauty 093 | Beauty news We bring you the latest in the world of beauty; from Chanel’s classic scent to NARS’ 20th anniversary 096 | Spa review: Cowshed, Carnaby

152 | Market focus: St James’s Strutt & Parker reveals the changing landscape of St James’s 156 | Hot property A beautifully renovated townhouse comes to the market on Chesterfield Hill 160 | Alpine escape Find your snowy sanctuary in a cosy yet grand chalet in Arosa, Switzerland

G H I B L I

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Contributors | The mayfair Magazine

NOVEMBER 2014 s issue 038

Acting Editor Kate Racovolis

The

contributors

Art Editor Carol Cordrey Food & Drink Editor Neil Ridley Collection Editor Annabel Harrison Editorial Assistant Bethan Rees Editorial Intern Aimee McLaughlin Brand Consistency Laddawan Juhong Senior Designer Lisa Wade Production Hugo Wheatley Alex Powell Oscar Viney Amy Roberts Editorial Director Kate Harrison Client Relationship Director Kate Oxbrow General Manager Fiona Fenwick Head of Finance Elton Hopkins Executive Director Sophie Roberts Managing Director Eren Ellwood

Proudly published by

RUNWILD MEDIA GROUP

6th Floor, One Canada Square, Canary Wharf, London, E14 5AX 020 7987 4320 www.rwmg.co.uk

Kari Colmans Our new contributing editor, Kari is an avid writer of culture, travel and food. As New York-based book publisher Assouline opens its new maison on Piccadilly this month, to mark 20 years in the industry, she reminds us of the beauty of the printed page.

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.

Jack Watkins

Richard Yarrow

Carol Cordrey

Jack is a freelance journalist who has been published in The Independent, The Guardian and The Daily Telegraph. This month, he takes a look at how the illustrious and controversial artist Jeff Koons has made kitsch cool, as his work is explored in a new book.

Former associate editor of Auto Express, Richard is an accomplished motoring journalist. This month, he takes the almost perfect RollsRoyce Ghost Series II for a drive. With bespoke design options such as a monogrammed stainless steel fuel cap, this is one truly unique car.

Carol is an art critic and editor. She organises the annual London Ice Sculpting Festival and is permanently on the art scene bringing us the latest happenings. This month, she reports on the work of Giovanni Battista Moroni as it arrives at the Royal Academy of Arts.

Also published by

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

SeAl of ApprovAl

How BritisH craftsmansHip is spearHeading tHe renaissance of tHe signet ring

DArling Dickie rememBering tHe legendary lord attenBorougH

execuTive eDucaTion The MBa DileMMa

iS returning to the bookS a good inveStment?

Members of the Professional Publishers Association

cover

On the

GloBal RankinGs

the world’S beSt buSineSS SchoolS revealed

Financial Gains

Salary expectationS vS. poSt-Study reality

Audrey Hepburn by Cecil Beaton, wearing one of the My Fair Lady Ascot scene costumes, Hollywood, 1963. © The Cecil Beaton Studio Archive at Sotheby’s (see page 22)

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Editor’s Letter | The mayfair Magazine

editor‘B

From the

EDITOR’S PICKs

1 2

#1 London Collection 18ct white gold ring with white diamonds, £2,800, William & Son (williamandson.com)

#2 The Proust Questionnaire, £30, published by Assouline (assouline.com)

#3 Bag, £2,840, Christian Louboutin and Louis Vuitton (icon.louisvuitton.com)

e daring, be different, be impractical, be anything that will assert integrity of purpose and imaginative vision against the play-it-safers, the creatures of the commonplace, the slaves of the ordinary,’ advised Cecil Beaton, whose wise words aptly set the tone for our November issue. In the following pages, we honour the many cultural innovators of the past who transformed their respective métiers, from fashion to photography, art and even members’ clubs, and those whose work still influences us today. Beaton was one such innovator, whose artistry made him truly revered, with his perfectly composed photographs of celebrities, royals and high society. This month, the spotlight will be shone on his work once more, as a new exhibition at Sibyl Colefax & John Fowler charts the evolution of his style through his three beautifully designed homes in London, Reddish and Ashcombe (page 22). Meanwhile, luxury book publisher Prosper Assouline leaves his New York headquarters for some tea at Claridge’s. We talk about his ‘unexpected’ successes and new Assouline maison on Piccadilly (page 62). Ridley Scott Associates also gives us a behind-the-scenes tour of one of London’s most famous (yet notoriously private) members’ clubs Annabel’s, in a new documentary that remembers how Mark Birley redefined the meaning of nightclubs. He was a true visionary whose legacy lives on through nights filled with Claret and fabulous parties (page 72). All of the artists, fashion designers and public figures you’ll encounter in this issue have made a lasting impression on the world through their work, and will no doubt continue to inspire for many more years to come. Here’s to timely and timeless innovation in all its forms.

Kate Racovolis Acting Editor Follow us on Twitter @MayfairMagazine

above: Louis Vuitton by JeanPhilippe Delhomme (see page 50)

THE BEAUTY IS IN EVERY DETAIL A breath-taking affair, The Rivoli Bar transports guests back to the glory days of 1920’s Paris to relish in its glamour and timeless sophistication. Nestled within the Louis XVI surrounds of The Ritz London hotel, the Parisian Art Deco bar showcases gilded ceiling domes, Lalique glass insets and magnificent windows stretch the full length of the bar allowing guests to enjoy the ambience whilst observing the hustle and bustle of London’s vibrant Mayfair. The Rivoli Bar offers an extensive choice of fine wines and Champagne along with a unique selection of signature martinis and contemporary cocktails including the Tallulah, which is served out of a perfume bottle to be poured and sipped from a glass rendition of a Louis Vuitton slipper. Opening Times: Monday to Saturday: 11:30am – Midnight and Sunday: 12:00pm - 10:00pm

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The mayfair Magazine | Regulars

My life in MAYFAIR Mark Henderson co-founder, the new craftsmen

‘T ‘It’s all very well putting a very high price on an item, but it has to be justified’ – Mark Henderson

from top: mark henderson; the new craftsmen on north row, and products, from a selection at the new craftsmen, 34 north row, w1k (020 7148 3190; thenewcraftsmen.com)

here is a groove in the footpath where I walk between Savile Row and North Row,’ says Mark Henderson, referring to two of the places where he spends most of his time: at Gieves & Hawkes, where he is chairman of the renowned tailor, and The New Craftsmen on North Row where he is one of the company’s three founders. With his 27-year career in the area, also as chairman of the London Luxury Quarter of Mayfair & St James’s and one of the founders of the Savile Row Bespoke Association, it’s no wonder this pavement is well-travelled. Two years ago, Henderson founded The New Craftsmen with Catherine Lock and Natalie Melton, two women well versed in craftsmanship and luxury goods. They popped up in various Mayfair locations, before finding the business’s permanent home in an Art Deco building on the quiet North Row this year. ‘I knew that the whole luxury goods market was moving towards unique products,’ says Henderson. ‘Because it’s all very well putting a very high price on an item, but it has to be justified.’ Championing the work of, at present, 75 ‘makers’, whose beautifully decorative objects, furniture and jewellery are showcased and sold here, The New Craftsmen is a hub where creativity is given a stage. ‘I love working with people who take care to make sure every detail is perfect. Somebody has worked really hard to make every single thing in this shop absolutely perfect,’ he says. ‘It’s the whole idea that you don’t need lots of things: I’m very happy not to eat anything at all for days on end and then have one gorgeous bowl of soup, for example...’ He has seen first-hand the transformation of many parts of Mayfair, including Savile Row, a street particularly close to Henderson’s heart. ‘There have always been new [businesses] coming along. In the 1960s you had Tommy Nutter and then you had Richard James and everybody being sniffy about Richard, and then you had Ozwald Boateng OBE coming along and people being sniffy about Ozwald, and now he’s part of the establishment,’ he says. ‘What I have seen is Savile Row move from being an artisan street to being a luxury street. I think all of the businesses along Savile Row, even the most traditional ones such as Henry Poole, are clearly in the luxury goods industry, and the standards of care when it comes to the customers has changed. When I first came to Savile Row, a lot of the stores didn’t open on a Saturday.’ When Henderson is not at No. 1 Savile Row at Gieves & Hawkes, or at The New Craftsmen, you might find him at the Curzon Cinema, or at The Lansdowne Club, and yet, after all this time in the area, he finds there are still new discoveries to be made. ‘Only last week I found that there is a building in which you can still see the River Tyburn running through it. It’s in the basement. I adore those little discoveries.’ 19

agenda

literary itinerary

Needle and thread What do tailored Savile Rows suits and art have in common? There are many shared traits, as Richard Anderson – the innovative tailor who opened on the Row 50 years ago – has discovered, as he hosts an exhibition, The Art of Tailoring. Curated by Anderson and Alice Cicolini, a designer and curator, the showcase will see individuals from all walks of life, including comedy duo Vic Reeves and Bob Mortimer, creating pieces inspired by Richard Anderson’s paper patterns, cloths, and tools of the trade, with the total freedom to interpret them. The Art of Tailoring runs until 12 December at Richard Anderson, 13 Savile Row, W1S (artoftailoring.com)

Couture culture

Kristin Scott Thomas takes to the stage at The Old Vic, Richard Anderson’s take on the art of tailoring and David Bailey looks through his lens at life in the East End

theatre

PHOTO JOHAN PERSSON

Electra

e know her as an elegant, refined female lead, starring in films including Four Weddings and a Funeral and The English Patient. Yet Kristin Scott Thomas proves her clout this month in Electra, her first Greek tragedy, which sees her portraying an unkempt, feral, sleep-deprived woman pining for revenge. Scott Thomas and director Ian Rickson (of Jerusalem acclaim) are collaborating for their fourth time. Surely this will not be their last as this revenge tragedy shows that they make a fantastic pairing. Performed in the round, the stage is dust ridden, the atmosphere is hot and the ambience is ancient and abstract. Mark Thompson’s design is simple; with just a large tree stump and a striking door indicating the grand palace of Argos. Thomas enters the stage, eyes fixed wide, rigidly held and wrought with anxiety; Electra is filled with detestation. Her appearance is atypical of a heroine: barefoot, unwashed hair and a flimsy grey dress, yet her protest is there to be heard from the rooftops. She wants everyone to know that she will never forget 20

her father, Agamemnon’s death, neither will she forget his killers, her mother Clytemnestra and her lover Aegisthus. She is obsessed with ensuring that justice is served. With all the pent-up vexation, Scott Thomas is still able to exude a lightness at times. Some of her lines are delivered with a laugh and a shrug, which makes her cries of fury seem even more unnerving. Scott Thomas is supported by an impressive cast. Jack Lowden brings a vulnerability to Orestes (Electra’s brother), who could just be played as a ‘killer-in-waiting’. Diana Quick impresses as an unperturbed Clytemnestra who seems self-assured that she had just grounds to kill her husband. This thrilling revenge tragedy will no doubt secure another sell-out run for The Old Vic. Electra is on until December 20 WORDS: DANIELLA ISAACS

David Bailey CBE is one of the most successful photographers of his generation; he’s captured the spirit of some of the most illustrious characters such as Salvador Dalí, Jack Nicholson and The Beatles, but he’s also encapsulated the disposition of normal, everyday people he passes on the street. The photographer, who was born and grew up in east London, brings us a new collection of three books entitled Bailey’s East End, in which he presents 620 photographs taken from the 1960s, to the present day. The triptych represents the changing face of the East End, which is an on-going conversation in today’s society, and his photographs illustrate the contrast between decades. The idea for the book came to him during the 1980s following the closure of the London Docks, when he was shooting in the districts of Silvertown and Canning Town, and this period is captured in one of the volumes. Accompanied by text from an interview by writer Monte Packham about Bailey’s childhood, it also gives a real insight into his life. It’s a must-read for any photography or history lover. Bailey’s East End by David Bailey, £75, Steidl

The mayfair Magazine | Regulars

IMAGE COURTESY STUDIOCANAL

5 top picks

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film

Serena

erena has all of the period drama trappings that have come to be expected from a film set in an unsettled world. The storyline focuses on George and Serena Pemberton, the newly-married couple whose happiness is so sky-high it only seems inevitable that it will, at some point, come to a sorrowful end.The foundations for this downfall are present from the beginning; George, a character played sensationally by Bradley Cooper is bribing a senator to keep his timber business open, while trying to keep under wraps a dirty secret bound to come out and shake the foundations on which his relationship is built. Serena shakes things up from the start.

the embodiment of the ball breaking business woman. Despite her steely façade, Serena’s insecurities are soon revealed with Jennifer-Lawrence-style subtlety. What ensues is an endless pursuit of happiness, as the characters are driven to great lengths to try and achieve their dreams. The plot moves quickly from love to despair, the audience’s reaction towards Serena wavers between pity and repulsion, and the uncomfortable tension never ceases. Mixed in with the powerful imagery of the vast, lonely landscape of North Carolina, Serena is a comprehensive documentation of passion and desperation. Serena is released on 24 October

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WORDS: TOM HAGUES

‘Heels become works of art this month as Christian Louboutin signs ten pairs of his Crystalle Pigalle heels for Browns Bride’

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Malice in

wonderland Cecil Beaton’s work is as relevant now as it has ever been, as a new exhibition at Sibyl Colefax & John Fowler on Brook Street arrives, charting the evolution of his personal style through his three UK homes W o r d s : K at e R a c o v o l i s

RIGHT: Marilyn Monroe by Cecil Beaton, New York, February 1956; OPPOSITE: Cecil Beaton with Mickey the cat, Reddish House, circa 1960

hen I was a child, my grandmother gave me a doll. It was not just any figurine – it was a Mattel interpretation of what Audrey Hepburn wore as Eliza Doolittle in My Fair Lady. The slender, slim-fitted white lace dress covered almost every inch of the doll’s tiny frame from neck to toe, and was complete with a flowing train, an umbrella that didn’t open (it was only for show) and a wide-brimmed hat that tipped slightly downward to one side at the front. Black and white sashes were tied up in bows at the bust, hip and knee, accentuating curves (not that my doll had many). My treasured doll, propped up with poise and elegance on her stand, sat untouched for years as I admired her beauty. That iconic dress is one I will always remember as one of the most elegant I’ve ever seen. This was the first time I had encountered the work of Cecil Beaton, the revered photographer, socialite, diarist, artist, aesthete and celebrity in his own right, who was photographed himself as much as he photographed others. His portraits of his subjects, often posed on unusual backgrounds, appeared on the pages of Vogue and Vanity Fair where he was one of the magazines’ staff photographers, before designing the set and costumes for My Fair Lady, among many more acclaimed films such as Gigi and musicals including Coco. The truth is, if you’ve ever seen the image of Her Majesty the Queen in her Coronation Robes, sat proudly with her sceptre and crown, Twiggy’s close-up, with her heavily kohled eyes or Marilyn

Monroe swathed in sheets, you’ve encountered his work too. ‘He photographed absolutely everybody we wanted to see, with the exception of Queen Mary and Virginia Woolf, who escaped him,’ says Hugo Vickers, Beaton’s official biographer. ‘He was so very prolific. He was incredibly professional and hardworking and always gave the impression that he’d done nothing, but actually he was working away like mad. He had his stethoscope on the heart of society and if there was a change in the beat he wanted to know why.’ But for loyal fans, or newcomers to Beaton’s body of work, this month Mayfair’s Sibyl Colefax & John Fowler brings to the forefront of our attention the great legacy and tome of images he left behind when he died in 1980. Beaton at Brook Street features many images from Sotheby’s extensive Cecil Beaton Studio Archive, and also coincides with the release of a book, Cecil Beaton: Portraits and Profiles, edited by Vickers. Combined, both offer a rich insight into Beaton’s complex character. That the exhibition is occurring at Sibyl Colefax & John Fowler is no coincidence; Beaton was a friend of the company’s founders, Sibyl Colefax and John Fowler. Colefax saw 

The mayfair Magazine | Feature

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Perhaps the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s second-worst crime is boredom. The first is being a 24

The mayfair Magazine | Feature

left: Cecil Beaton in the Winter Garden, with his Pug, Reddish House, 1962; right, from top: Salvador and Gala Dalí, the Sitting Room, Ashcombe, June 1936; Cecil Beaton & Peter Watson in the Circus Bedroom, Ashcombe, 1932; Lady Colefax and Rex Whistler, Ashcombe, 1933

Beaton’s first exhibition in 1927, and was immediately intrigued by his work. She went on to join the likes of luminaries such as Oliver Messel and Augustus John, visiting Beaton at his Ashcombe residence. Cecil Beaton at Home – Town and Country, which forms part of the exhibition – curated by interior designer Andrew Ginger, a former design assistant of Sibyl Colefax & John Fowler – offers a glimpse into a more private side of Beaton, at his homes in Ashcombe and Reddish, as well as his London abode in Pelham Place. This will go on show alongside many of Beaton’s images that are being seen by the public for the first time. ‘When Noel Coward saw Ashcombe in 1937 he called it “the most courageous thing” he’d ever seen, and by the mores of the time gilded, muralled Ashcombe was vulgar, outrageous and bohemian,’ says Ginger. ‘It’s a reflection of Beaton’s determination to be himself and he enjoyed the “bafflement on the faces of his more conventional visitors.” Later, Reddish became the canvas to explore his passion for Edwardian and period styles.’ Ginger says that Beaton’s London home, in contrast, was completely different in style, where ‘Beaton was most ambitious and competitive,’ saying that the ‘overtly sophisticated space was as tailored as his town suits’. ‘In London in 1962 he refurbished his townhouse into a polished contemporary space to convey again a specific impression of himself – boldly confident in strong colours, numerous references to exotic travel and historical understanding of foreign cultures, an impressive array of strong contemporary art from the 1920s to the immediately current. The floor was finely inlaid marquetry, the black velvet walls edged in complex Spanish gold lace trim (such as that used for a matador’s costume). The effect is formal, polished, not entirely comfortable, and intentionally intimidating. The bedroom, walled in bright red velvet with tribal art, classical sculptures and antique French furniture had a metal bed of his own design and a modernist Giacometti lampshade.’ 

bore’ – Cecil Beaton 25

The eccentric way in which Beaton lived his life comes alive through these images, as it does through his choice of interiors and diaries, which have been published in the book by Vickers. Always on a constant quest for ingenuity, Beaton said, ‘Perhaps the world’s second-worst crime is boredom. The first is being a bore.’ Beaton was indeed a professional. His portraits are regarded as images of perfection, but as an avid diarist, he often commented on his subjects, sometimes in less than complimentary ways. Behind the veneer of beautiful imagery there was a man of contradictions, and great complexity. ‘He was a fey dandy who turned out to be surprisingly tough, a gay man who yearned to be married, a dedicated socialite who craved creative time alone, a genius photographer who would rather have been a playwright. You think you know him and he constantly surprises,’ says Ginger. Vickers recalls how when Beaton photographed Audrey Hepburn, he didn’t immediately fall at her feet, in awe of her beauty, but rather, saw her faults and had her pose so as to avoid them. ‘In a way he had a cruel eye, which took everything in, and addressed the problems,’ says Vickers. ‘He wasn’t looking at the world through rose-tinted spectacles by any means.’ That Beaton’s work is still being explored, exhibited and celebrated is a true testament to the lasting power of all his work, be it from that dress in My Fair Lady that I so admired, his written words and opinions of others or his portraits. ‘His images were so consistently exceptional that they came to define their time, and, consequently, they will be cherished and enjoyed by generations to come,’ says Ginger. The perfectionist in Beaton always shone through, as he said: ‘All I want is the best of everything, and there’s very little of that left.’ Beaton at Brook Street is on at Sibyl Colefax & John Fowler from 18 November - 5 December 2014. 39 Brook Street, W1K (sibylcolefax.com), and Cecil Beaton: Portraits & Profiles, £30, by Hugo Vickers, is published by Frances Lincoln

left, from top: Reddish House, Broad Chalke, Wiltshire; Cecil Beaton’s Flower Room, Reddish House; The Library, Reddish House. right: Audrey Hepburn by Cecil Beaton, wearing one of the My Fair Lady Ascot scene costumes, Hollywood, 1963.

all images © The Cecil Beaton Studio Archive at Sotheby’s

‘He had his stethoscope on the heart of society 26

The mayfair Magazine | Feature

and if there was a change in the beat he wanted to know whyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Hugo Vickers 27

ELIZABETH STREET SW1

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The mayfair Magazine | Collection

alonQP, the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest premium watch exhibition, returns to the Saatchi Gallery in November. Now in its sixth year, it has been established as a must-visit event for collectors, enthusiasts and press. More than 50 marques will be in attendance, including TAG Heuer, Zenith, Bremont, Chopard and Jaeger-LeCoultre. This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s show will also feature Gems of Time, a specially curated exhibition which celebrates the heritage, glamour, and craftsmanship of high jewellery timepieces. Included will be a unique set of Bulgari Serpenti watches, which Elizabeth Taylor famously wore on the set of Cleopatra in 1962, and the 101 mechanical movement by Jaeger-LeCoultre worn by Her Majesty the Queen on her Coronation Day in 1953. SalonQP, 6-8 November, Saatchi Gallery salonqp.com

SalonQP 2014 29

Jewellery news Shine bright like a diamond in bejewelled treasures from De Beers and Boodles WORDS: OLIVIA SHARPE

Bring to light For 125 years, De Beers has been capturing the hearts of women all around the world with its covetable diamond creations and now it has decided to celebrate its female muses through a series of portraits shot by Mary McCartney. Inspirational women, including fashion designer Alice Temperley MBE, artist Cornelia Parker OBE, choreographer Aszure Barton, Michelin-starred chef Skye Gyngell and photographer Chen Man, were chosen to front the Moments in Light initiative which aims to shine a light on the Women for Women International charity, which was founded with the aim of helping women in war-torn regions to rebuild their lives. Over the next two years, De Beers will provide financial support to six year-long programmes in Kosovo, Nigeria, Iraq and Rwanda. (momentsinlight.co.uk; debeers.co.uk)

Sands of time Italian artisan jeweller Pomellato’s latest collection of delicate, diamond pieces, entitled Sabbia, has been inspired by the molecular, glimmering particles of sand which cover the world’s most spectacular beaches. The irregular and undulated pavé design of small and large circlets forms each ring’s central motif and comes in white, brown or black diamonds, capturing the varying hues of shimmering sand. Each ring has been set in rose gold. The latest collection also includes bracelets, necklaces, pendants and earrings. Sabbia collection by Pomellato (pomellato.com) 30

Look to the stars For Jason and Sophia Hirsh, founders of the eponymous London-based jeweller, designing jewellery is about creating individual works of art that tell a personal story. This has been evoked in the latest Hirsh design, Celestial ring, which was inspired by Jason’s childhood memories of playing with his mother’s rings. The three inspired designs – Pegasus, Orion and Lyra – comprise white-cut diamonds which represent stars and glide effortlessly on 26 rubies, coming in either 18-karat yellow, white or rose gold. Celestial ring, from a selection (hirshlondon.com)

Moving with the Times Founder of Boodles William Wainwright created the brand’s first pocket watches almost 150 years ago; this year, the British jeweller revisits its heritage with the launch of its first high jewellery watch collection. Arriving into showrooms on 1 November, the Boodles Blossom watch has looked to the company’s existing, and iconic, Blossom jewellery collection for inspiration. Head designer Rebecca Hawkins explains: ‘We wanted to stay true to what Boodles is known for and this is of course jewellery. The new watch is delicate and feminine, combining diamonds, mother of pearl, white and rose gold to create what we believe to be a truly special, as well as functional, piece of high jewellery’. The Boodles Blossom Watch is available in two sizes; from a selection (boodles.com)

The mayfair Magazine | Collection

Feather in its cap Argyle Diamonds marks its 30th anniversary this month with the launch of a limited edition pink diamond encrusted feather pendant. This is the first time the diamond supplier has created a collection of feather pendants but only 100 of these are being made available globally, thereby speaking to the rarity and exclusivity so often associated with the company. The delicate design has been set with one carat of natural and ethically supplied Argyle pink diamonds and each one has a numbered ‘1 of 100’ laser inscription, accompanied by a certificate of authenticity and a bespoke box. Argyle Pink Plume limited edition pink diamond pendant, from a selection. Available from November at select ateliers (argylepinkdiamonds.com)

A fine art In a beautiful Belgravia townhouse just moments away from Sloane Square is where you’ll find bespoke fine jeweller Niquesa’s atelier. Founded by Luigi and Elisabetta de Simone, the house draws upon four generations of Italian craftsmanship to create unique pieces. As well as the bespoke service, Niquesa also produces fine jewellery collections, the latest of which is called Harlequin. The baroque-themed collection comprises an eclectic and flamboyant selection of earrings, rings and necklaces; we particularly love the bold Ametrine Harlequin ring featuring amethysts, multicoloured sapphires and round brilliant-cut diamonds set in 18-carat yellow gold. Harlequin collection, from £4,560 By appointment at Niquesa Fine Jewellery, 19 West Eaton Place, SW1X 8LT (niquesafinejewellery.com)

CUTTING EDGE Theo Fennell’s new collection of diamond pieces has been inspired by the exoticism of palm trees. Encompassing earrings, pendants and a cuff, each piece has been crafted in 18-karat white gold and pavé diamonds:

‘Curiously, a lot of palm trees had begun featuring in my sketches. They have always been reminiscent of exotic, happy times when I was a boy in the Far East or on holidays in the Caribbean. I realised their random sense of movement and light would make a fine starting point for a collection’ Palm 18-karat white gold & pavé diamond necklace, earrings and cuff, £1,500 to £22,950 (theofennell.com)

Up the Garden Path Jewellers often take inspiration from nature for their pieces; consider Piaget’s iconic rose motif or Chanel’s timeless camellia, for instance. French jeweller Chaumet has similarly looked to the natural world for its latest collection which has been based around the hydrangea flower. The Hortensia fine jewellery collection is made up of two parts: the first includes six exquisite pieces, while the second is the house’s newest entry level range and comprises 18 pieces. Hortensia collection, from a selection (chaumet.com)

Cross the T’s Tiffany & Co.’s Francesca Amfitheatrof, who joined the company last year, has already created quite a stir in the industry, even going so far as to hint in a recent interview with British Vogue that the iconic duck egg packaging (for which Tiffany is famous) could be up for a dramatic redesign. While this may not have happened yet, Amfitheatrof has already shown her daring side by going against the brand’s traditional aesthetic in an ultra-modern collection for the house. Symbolising a new era, Tiffany T has been dedicated to New York’s ‘relentless energy’ which ‘drives art and culture around the world’, incorporating minimalist and graphic pieces capturing the city’s architecture. (tiffany.co.uk)

Collection | The mayfair Magazine

#2 #4

Belle

of the

ball An enchanted spell has been cast over the jewellery world, with fairytale-inspired collections

#6 #15

#7 #13

#14

#8 #12

#11

#10

#1 Astre de Lumière long necklace, from a selection, Van Cleef & Arpels (vancleefarpels.com) #2 Plume de Chanel gold yellow earrings, from a selection, Chanel Fine Jewellery (chanel.com) #3 Garzas pendant in yellow gold and diamonds (medium), from a selection, Carrera y Carrera (carreraycarrera.com) #4 Butterfly rose gold and coloured diamond necklace, Red Carpet Collection, from a selection, Chopard (chopard.com) #5 Yellow and white diamond necklace, from a selection, David Morris (davidmorris.com) #6 Gold, ruby and diamond apple core charm, £5,500, Aurélie Bidermann Fine Jewellery (net-a-porter.com) #7 Yellow diamond Sitar earrings, Red Carpet Collection, from a selection, Chopard, as before #8 Gold-tone Swarovski crystal butterfly ring, £140, Alexander McQueen (net-a-porter.com) #9 Robe Couleur du Soleil clip, from a selection, Van Cleef & Arpels, as before #10 Trompe l'oeil yellow diamond ring, from a selection, Dior (dior.com) #11 Garzas ring in yellow gold and diamonds (medium), from a selection, Carrera y Carrera, as before #12 Beauté céleste ring, from a selection, Van Cleef & Arpels, as before #13 Spiral diamond yellow gold earrings, £11,846, Faberge (faberge.com) #14 Lumières d'Eau timepiece in yellow gold and yellow sapphires, from a selection, Chaumet (chaumet.com) #15 Lumières d’Eau transformable earrings in yellow gold and yellow sapphires, from a selection, Chaumet, as before 32

C E L E B R AT I N G 3 0 Y E A R S

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Changing

spots

As Cartier celebrates the 100th anniversary of its legendary panther with a new fine jewellery collection, Olivia Sharpe looks back to find out how a cultural icon was born

above, from left: Jeanne Toussaint, Cartier Archives © Cartier; 1914 wristwatch designed by Charles Jacqueau, N. Welsh, Cartier Collection © Cartier

his year marks the centenary of the start of the First World War. While this particular milestone naturally takes precedence above all others, 2014 also signals another anniversary which is of particular significance to the fine jewellery world; the birth of Cartier’s iconic panther motif. At first, it might seem somewhat inappropriate to be celebrating a piece of history that is frivolous in comparison to one of the most devastating events of the 20th century. And yet, it is often the case that during turbulent periods in history, creative genius is spawned. When one considers this, the Cartier panther takes on a whole new meaning, symbolising timeless beauty created in a time of adversity. Therefore, in celebration, Cartier has launched Panthère de Cartier: a collection of 56 fine jewellery pieces which reimagines its

famous big cat in a number of different forms, including a yellow gold necklace with black lacquer, onyx, tsavorite, garnets and diamonds; a white gold ring featuring a modern, geometric openwork design and an Op Art tribal bracelet with a pattern of diamonds and onyx spots. While the panther has evolved considerably over the decades, reinvented in countless styles and unconventional materials, its main meaning has remained the same; strong, powerful and majestic, it continues to be an emblem of freedom of expression and artistic creativity. The first Cartier panther was created in 1914 by the house’s designer Charles Jacqueau, appearing on a wristwatch with a round case of polished platinum, paved with rose-cut diamonds and onyx, and featuring a black-and-white spotted motif inspired by the animal’s coat. The abstract design not only heralded the birth of an icon but the beginning of the Art Deco styles to come. However, it is widely considered that it was not until the arrival of Cartier’s famed jewellery director, Jeanne Toussaint, that the panther was truly brought to life. Toussaint was born in Belgium in 1887 but moved to Paris at the age of 13 to live with her sister and there became immersed in Parisian high society, taking inspiration from the avant-garde world of artists and designers during the height of the Belle Époque. Like her

The mayfair Magazine | Collection

right: white gold bracelet with onyx, emeralds and diamonds, and matching ring with black lacquer, Tania & Vincent © Cartier; far right: Nick Welsh, Cartier Collection © Cartier

contemporary and close friend Coco Chanel, Toussaint was imbued with natural artistic talent and impeccable taste and this was immediately picked up on by Louis Cartier, grandson of the eponymous house’s founder, who met Toussaint just before the start of WW1. He was captivated by her magnetic personality, killer instinct and ferocious spirit. It was this spirit, in particular, which led to her being nicknamed ‘the panther’, not to mention it being an animal she was evidently fond of, having designed numerous objects themed around the feline for herself (including a vanity case and cigarette box). In 1933, having worked at Cartier for a number of years in the small leather goods and accessories department, she was appointed head of fine jewellery and it was then that her creative powers were fully unleashed. With her unique vision and technical skill, she revolutionised the house’s style with modern settings; she is responsible for having invented the principle of clip-on jewellery and for reintroducing the trend for using yellow gold following the 1920s era of monochrome, along with other non-traditional materials, such as rock crystal and platinum. Then, in 1948, the Duke of Windsor commissioned the jeweller to design a piece of jewellery for his wife. The three-dimensional gold clip-brooch featured a spectacular cabochon emerald upon which perched a gold-and-black spotted panther; a radical departure from the traditional jewellery of the decade, it was seen as a revolutionary piece of jewellery design. As a trendsetter of her day, it was not long before other high-profile women picked up on the Duchess’ new, widely reported fashion statement and the panther next appeared on the wealthy editor of Harper’s Bazaar in Paris, Daisy Fellowes; on this occasion,

the motif was reinvented in platinum with piercing yellow diamonds for eyes and a spectacular 152-carat sapphire cabochon. From then on, the panther has continued to be worn by influential female figures, from Barbara Hutton and María Félix to Francine Weisweiller and Princess Nina Aga Khan, all of whom no doubt were subconsciously drawn to its strong and powerful persona. Pierre Rainero, the current image, style and heritage director at Cartier, sums up why he believes it was so successful. ‘The panther, as it was for Jeanne Toussaint, became the emblem of very independent women with their own freedom to enjoy, buying their own jewellery and in many cases making all the big decisions in life themselves.’ Today, the Cartier panther appears bolder and fiercer than ever before, perhaps in order to convey how women have successfully battled through the troubles of the 20th century and have emerged fighting fit. Rainero comments: ‘In all the different creations, the common point is the panther is at the centre of the composition, the centre of the creation. The panther is never the decor; the panther is really the inspiration of a piece of jewellery and the panther is the actor or the actress of the main role of the composition.’ Who knows what the next century of the panther will bring but what we can say for certain is that the wild cat will continue to surprise and astound. (cartier.com)

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The mayfair Magazine | Collection

Watch news Treasured timepieces, horological heirlooms and modern masterpieces WORDS: RICHARD BROWN

Mayfair’s boutique bonanza London’s most exclusive neighbourhood is about to get even more so. Following the recent opening of Richard Mille’s first UK standalone store on Mount Street, this autumn sees Blancpain launch a flagship boutique at 11 New Bond Street, before IWC unveils its first UK premises down the road at number 138. Shadowing the summer launch of Watches of Switzerland’s Regent Street showroom – the largest watch store in Europe – the openings surely cement London as the watch capital of the continent.

ONE TO WATCH Each month we select our timepiece of the moment from the watch world’s most exciting creations

Watches in Montblanc’s recently launched Bohème Collection come equipped with self-winding calibres, special date displays and even perpetual calendars. At 30mm in diameter, the Bohème Date Automatic is the most elegant of the bunch

Saluting the minute repeater Originally devised as a way of telling the time in the dark, the minute repeater has come to represent all that is romantic in watchmaking. Paying tribute to the hallowed complication, Roger Dubuis recently unveiled the Hommage Minute Repeater Tourbillon Automatic (£317,700). The watch provides a clear view of the parts in motion when the striking mechanism chimes hours, minutes and quarter hours. A flying tourbillon guarantees optimal inertia, equilibrium and anti-shock protection. Pink gold is the material of choice for the case, lugs, crown, and visible mainplate. Each piece takes 1,241 hours to make; more than seven and a half weeks. First deliveries will start in May 2015. (rogerdubuis.com) Complication made simple It’s the award-winning German brand that knocks out mechanical wristwatches with in-house movements for less than a grand. While the latest edition of Nomos Glashütte’s Zurich Worldtimer, the True Blue, retails for a little more than that, £3,850 will secure a patented worldtime mechanism that will indicate the time in 24 cities at the click of a button. It also gets you a clean and elegant little number that you’re unlikely to see many of while travelling on the tube. Zurich Worldtimer True Blue, £3,850 Nomos Glashütte (nomos-glashuette.com)

Bohème Date Automatic, £2,000, Montblanc (montblanc.com) 37

Absolutely

Fabuleux Annabel Harrison meets Vacheron Constantin’s artistic director Christian Selmoni to find out more about the newest Metiers d’Art collection, entitled, grandly and enigmatically, Fabuleux Ornements

he V&A is one of my favourite buildings in London. It’s a real treat to wander around its galleries, embued with history, gazing at ancient artefacts from myriad centuries and wondering how they came to rest in the institution’s hallowed halls. What’s even better, though, is to be led from gallery to gallery by two of the museum’s curators, Moya Carey and Anne Haworth, out of hours; eerily quiet, it’s much easier to absorb oneself in the stories behind each piece. On this occasion we’re contemplating spectacularly detailed Indian miniatures from the 17th century, the famous Chelsea carpet (made in Iran in the 1500s and bought by William Morris for his Chelsea home) and a Chinese dragon robe, as well as the rare and precious Islamic rock crystal ewer, one of a series that survives in collections across Europe. This night at the museum came courtesy of Vacheron Constantin and the private showcase of its four new Metiers d’Art timepieces. For 2014, ladies (unlike fashion, which refers to women and womenswear, the haute horlogerie industry tends to prefer the moniker ‘ladies’) are invited to ‘celebrate the ornamental beauties of the world drawn from the decorative arts of several cultures… inspired by dreams of faraway places’.

This particular collection has been two years in the making, demanding thousands of hours of slow, highly skilled work for an end result of just 80 pieces; why, I ask Christian, are the Metiers d’Art so important to Vacheron? He references the fact that even at the end of the 18th century Vacheron’s pocket watches, although made for men, were engraved and set with stones. ‘We combine technical watchmaking with the decorative crafts; to me, this is fantastic. These crafts have been in the company since the early years so the Metiers d’Art concept is part of our DNA. It offers a great amount of room for creativity. Although we only make a few, they are designed and engineered with the highest quality in mind.’ Despite the fact that early on in the creative process, there were 12 Fabuleux Ornements designs, which, Christian says understatedly, ‘were all quite nice’, only four made the cut; the master artisans created reinterpretations of Ottoman architecture, Chinese embroidery, Indian manuscripts and French lacework. Aesthetics were, of course, the first reason for whittling the numbers down but commercial sensibilities were also at play. ‘The choice of the Asian ornament was very clear for us. It’s a market that loves these sorts of watches. We have to make things which people want’. It is this watch, crafted in pink gold with a dial carpeted in ruby,

‘Artisans have taken inspiration from Ottoman architecture 38

The mayfair Magazine | Collection

cuprite and garnet flowers, which was also the most complex, involving glyptics, gemstone cloisonné work and engraving. ‘It’s almost ridiculous to do things like that but there is something really magical when you look at it’, Christian declares. Because the flowers being carved and engraved are so small and delicate, ‘they give us many problems… but they deliver beautiful results! The more difficulties you encounter, the better the result is.’ ‘It’s about the story behind the creation,’ he adds. ‘To do something which is pleasurable for the eye is not enough. It’s important to transport the client somewhere, to tell them a story and make it extra special.’ These stories concern China and its ancient embroideries, India and its colourfully illustrated manuscripts, the Ottoman Empire and its beautiful architecture, and France and its exquisite lacework. Indian manuscripts are reflected within a pink gold case and ten vibrant enamel colours on the dial. ‘The contours of its decor are traced using the champlevé technique to create cavities separated by thin gold partitions in order to apply the enamels. These ten different hues represent a daunting challenge in terms of mastering the successive firings.’ The foliage, which is meticulously handengraved after enamelling, is one of the most delicate stages, since even the slightest slip of the hand can jeopardise the entire creation. The French lacework model involves guillochage, Grand Feu enamelling and gem-setting; the luminous white gold lacework pattern is intended to remind us of traditional, French-style embroideries, an ancestral art ingrained in the national culture. The Ottoman architecture timepiece is my favourite, though, with its pink gold moucharaby (wooden lattice)

motif formed by the dial and of which every edge is delicately bevelled by hand. The natural white mother-of-pearl base is embellished by gold gridwork studded with half-pearl beads, aiming to echo the majesty of the scrolling patterns in Middle Eastern architecture. This is truly a beautiful piece and, the closer I look, the more its craftsmanship takes my breath away; the care taken over it requires a certain level of passion as well as skill. Passion is evident at the company’s highest levels too; while CEO Mr Torres has been with Vacheron for three decades, Christian is ‘still here after 24 years because it’s never been a job to me; it has always been a pleasure. I honestly feel excited every morning when I wake to think about all the things I can do in Vacheron Constantin.’ He is more reserved than Torres but full of surprises; I discover a passion for tattoo artistry; how useful it must be to have this eclectic a set of creative and cultural references. Next year marks the 260th anniversary of Vacheron Constantin, a milestone that no other watch brand can claim to have celebrated. As such I am expecting the 2015 Metiers d’Art collection to soar to even greater creative heights. Christian is full of excitement but tight-lipped: ‘The anniversary will include a collection of technical watches. It will be a cool combination of complication and design; technical watchmaking in a very Vacheron aesthetic’. Watch this space. Vacheron Constantin 37 Old Bond Street (vacheronconstantin.com)

and Chinese embroidery’ 39

The Themayfair mayfairMagazine Magazine||Interiors Fashion

Follow suit Finding the right suit is not just a sartorial success; having an ensemble that can carry you from business meetings to dinner will also make for a timeless addition to your wardrobe. Tailoring duo Thom Whiddett and Luke Sweeney, or Thom Sweeney as they are also known, are opening a store in Mayfair’s Bruton Place to house something for every gentleman. Whether you’re in the market for a made-tomeasure suit with all the trimmings, or you wish to select something off the peg from the ready-to-wear collection, Thom Sweeney will meet your needs. Thom Sweeney, 33a Bruton Place, W1J (thomsweeney.co.uk)

Style spy W O R D S : bethan rees

Bag of tricks A statement bag is the perfect way to make an outfit. Whether it’s paired with a formal suit, or a more relaxed weekend silhouette, this Ermenegildo Zegna Couture Bag is a versatile and elegant piece. As the first holdall from Stefano Pilati, head of design, the Couture Bag certainly makes a statement. With three types of precious leather to choose from, in five colours, there’s a style for every occasion. Couture Bag, £2,195, Ermenegildo Zegna Couture exclusive to Harrods (zegna.com; harrods.com)

Unwind in style

Best foot forward

The spa at Bulgari Hotel & Residences has received a rather masculine addition with its dedicated Gentlemen’s Grooming treatments. The new menus allow for a visit to the spa for a simple shave, or a more indulgent package, such as the Gentlemen’s Signature Experience; starting with a hair trim and styling before a wet shave. It’s the perfect excuse to treat yourself. The Bulgari Hotel & Residences, 171 Knightsbridge, SW7 (bulgarihotels.com)

What better way to embrace the autumnal weather than by co-ordinating your footwear with its shades. Mr Porter and famed St James’s Street shoemaker John Lobb have done precisely that, with the launch of a six-piece range of hand crafted shoes in a fabulous variety of styles including Chelsea boots, brogues, monk-straps and loafers. The collection comes in hues of deep plum, midnight blue and burnt umber brown, to prepare your wardrobe perfectly for the November climate. Capsule collection, from £695, Mr Porter and John Lobb (mrporter.com) 41

Fashion | The mayfair Magazine

Keeping it classic Whoever said you have to suffer to be beautiful clearly never set foot in the emporium of cashmere delights that is N. Peal. It’s been deemed comfortable enough to grace the wardrobes of Princess Diana and Dame Elizabeth Taylor. For this season, berry red is shaping up to be the colour of the moment, which provides a vibrant accent piece against the neutral browns and charcoal greys that pepper the rest of the collection. For a stunning winter statement piece, opt for the beautifully arranged chevron coat made from racoon fur or the slinky silver fox fur jacket. 37-40 Burlington Arcade, W1J (npeal.com)

Style update W O R D S : aimee mcla u g hlin

Ice breaker A brand with as much heritage as Delvaux is certainly a timeless one. Since 1829, the Brussels-based brand has created beautifully handcrafted leather goods, and now Mayfair welcomes its first London flagship. You will find simple shapes complemented by tones of berry, ice blue and arctic grey. Its iconic Le Brillant bag has also adopted a wintery white exterior, providing a stunning way to break the monotony of a black-laden wardrobe. Above: Le Tempête Magma (left), £14,406, Le Brillant ‘L’Humour’ (right), £3,602, Delvaux, 36 New Bond Street, W1S (delvaux.com)

The elements of style Albemarle Street is having its own moment in the fashion spotlight, as House of Voltaire’s pop-up store, designed in collaboration with French fashion powerhouse Chloé, is the latest name to grace the street. Twenty years after Studio Voltaire first set up its gallery and education programmes, its latest project uses the theme of modern femininity, so often evoked by Chloé’s delicate patterns and elegant tailoring. Three female artists – Cao Fei, Karen Kilimnik and Jenny Saville – have created bespoke artwork and limited-edition prints – the perfect unique gift for any culture connoisseur. House of Voltaire, 39-40 Albemarle Street, W1S 42

The Bally way It’s been a busy year for Bally. Following Pablo Coppola’s first collection as newly appointed design director, the brand is making its Mayfair comeback on New Bond Street (it was first opened on the street in 1882) with its new design led by famed architect Sir David Chipperfield. The concept allows the shoe boxes to form a part of the store’s display unit and the use of minimalist furniture, including stripped-back leather sofas and brass tube lighting, ensures that the eye remains firmly focused on the collection itself. Boots, £850, Bally, 45-46 New Bond Street, W1S (bally.co.uk)

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The mayfair Magazine | Fashion

COAT CHECK Whether you opt for a long and voluminous duster coat, or a sleek and tailored trench, we bring you the season’s most elegant outerwear P hoto g rapher : O liver P earce S tylist: L u cie D odds

Norwich tweed coat, £350, Prince of Wales check double-breasted jacket, £295, and trousers, £165, all L.K.Bennett (lkbennett.com). Silver skinny bar ring, £70, and skinny crown ring, £315, both Monica Vinader (monicavinader.com)

Fashion | The mayfair Magazine

ABOVE Camel coat £1,060, and cream silk shirt £310, both Maxmara (maxmara.com). Leather trim coat, £1,895, and Winton dress, £1,230, both Ralph Lauren Black Label (ralphlauren.com). Stilettos, £710, Giuseppe Zanotti (giuseppezanottidesign.com)

OPPOSITE Coat, from a selection, Antonio Berardi (antonioberardi.com). Leather 1887 bag, £1,495, Smythson (smythson.com). Leather boots, £1,595, Christian Louboutin (christianlouboutin.com)

The mayfair Magazine | Fashion

ABOVE Coat £1,060, and silk shirt £310, both Maxmara (maxmara.com). Leather trousers, from a selection, Agnona (agnona.com). Stilettos, £695, Christian Louboutin (christianlouboutin.com). Bag, £950, Jimmy Choo, (jimmychoo.com)

OPPOSITE Cashmere coat, £3,600, belt, £530, shirt, £670, wool skirt, £1,710, sandals, £1,330 and bag £3,080, all Hermès (uk.hermes.com)

Hair and make-up: Lawrence Close using L’Oréal and Clinique

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in a Name? As Louis Vuitton partners with six iconoclasts to transform its distinctive monogram, Gabrielle Lane looks at the fresh angle the project brings to the brand â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and its curious timing

The mayfair Magazine | Feature

Christian Louboutin

Frank Gehry

Marc Newson

product designer, an architect and the creative director of a rival brand. This autumn, Louis Vuitton has commissioned six renowned figures from the worlds of fashion, art and design – Marc Newson, Frank Gehry and Karl Lagerfeld among them – to produce an item of luggage, with full blessing of the house’s own visionary, Nicolas Ghesquière. Ordinarily, the invitation to toy with the brand’s accessories, just 12 months after Ghesquière’s appointment as artistic director of womenswear, would be met with alarm.

The iconoclasts themselves might even be reluctant to lend their talents to bolstering the profits of one of the world’s biggest fashion conglomerates. But the aim of this project is to reinterpret the distinctive LV monogram and for the aforementioned three, as well as Cindy Sherman, Rei Kawakubo and Christian Louboutin, it is an opportunity to honour one of the most distinctive fashion signatures in the world. More than 118 years after Georges Vuitton patented his father Louis’s initials surrounded by flowers in a geometric formation, and 160 

Cindy Sherman

Rei Kawakubo

Karl Lagerfeld 51

ABOVE: CERTIFICATE OF MONOGRAM REGISTRATION. below: Détail de la Toile Monogram. both images © ARCHIVES LOUIS VUITTON MALLETIER

 years after the birth of the French atelier, the brand’s executive vice president Delphine Arnault masterminded the limited-edition collaborations. ‘We were interested in people who work with their minds and their hands. I thought it was so interesting and fun to have all of these different points of view on the monogram. It is inspiring to see how they envision things, to see their perspectives.

This is a group of geniuses,’ she explains. The inspiration for the original monogram is unclear, but many believe the floral and diamond motif reflects the tiles on display at the Vuitton family home. For the new collection, each iconoclast has injected personality into their work, while using panels of monogrammed leather to create handbags and holdalls. Newson’s design is a functional backpack, which stands up unsupported; Louboutin has created a shopping bag with flashes of the vivid red lacquer that usually adorns the soles of the shoes he designs and Lagerfeld has opted for a boxing bag-shaped carry-all, flanked by aged brass hardware and cowhide to give his product a vintage-inspired, playful aesthetic. Kawakubo – the Japanese designer behind quirky label Comme des Garçons – has emphasised her irreverent style by holepunching and ripping the edges of her Louis Vuitton tote, while the task of reflecting the travel heritage of Louis Vuitton, synonymous with its antique trunks, was left to photographer Cindy Sherman who added postcard-style patches to her bag range, based on some of her own pictures. According to sources at the atelier, the most challenging bag to make was the box-shaped bag with curved edges, overseen by Frank Gehry – a man who is famed for architectural feats including the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao. Not only is Celebrating Monogram an interesting project owing to its partners and complexities, but it comes at an interesting time too. In mid-October, market intelligence firm Euromonitor International released its annual data for the global luxury goods sector revealing that a government crackdown on conspicuous gifting amid a period of slow economic growth in China had affected sales in one of the world’s biggest luxury markets. Fflur Roberts, head of the luxury goods division at the company, reveals that although the value of luxury sales increased by $9.6 billion in the country over the past five years, ‘this impressive growth fizzled

OPENING PAGE, TOP ROW: Christian Louboutin (PHOTO: MATHIEU CESAR); Marc Newson (PHOTO: Romeo Balancourt; Franck Gehry (PHOTO: Alexandra Cabri)

OPENING PAGE, BOTTOM ROW: CINDY SHERMAN (PHOTO: Mark Seliger); KARL LAGERFELD; Rei Kawakubo (PHOTO: Eiichiro Sakata)

The mayfair Magazine | Feature

out towards the end of the review period, leading many brands to question their strategy for China and other emerging markets.’ Many analysts believe that it was the fact that the Louis Vuitton monogram became ubiquitous which negatively impacted its fortunes in China. In January 2013, chief executive of parent company LVMH, said the brand would not open boutiques in China’s second and third-tier cities in the foreseeable future to ‘avoid becoming too commonplace’. With the impact of the recession worldwide, many analysts have noted the lingering power of the conservative consumer who eschews garish branding in favour of quality and durability.

According to a study by management consulting firm Bain & Company, this group now makes up 20 per cent of all luxury consumers worldwide. On the catwalk, brands such as Victoria Beckham and Céline have grown in popularity in recent seasons thanks to simple silhouettes and muted colour palettes, while it is labels such as Burberry that have been able to forge a more personal connection with consumers in cyberspace that continue to post record profits. Indeed in China, where Burberry has established a presence on social networking website WeChat, the company plans to open more than 100 stores in four years to cater to demand. What Louis Vuitton has in its favour is heritage in abundance: the monogram is its own icon, a marker of tradition, paired with craftsmanship for the new collection. A dedicated website tracing the emergence of Celebrating Monogram declares: ‘In many ways it means The Monogram has come full circle: looking at its handcrafted roots once more, its direct connection to a person, its daring and genre-defying audacity and, above all, its journey into the future for Louis Vuitton.’ A future that might just surprise you. (icon.louisvuitton.com)

LEFT: Louis Vuitton, BY Jean-Philippe Delhomme. below: photo by Erwan Frotin

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The mayfair Magazine | Art

Art news

Q&A with…

Q: After Goldsmiths College training alongside Damien Hirst, what was Patterson’s path to prominence? A: Patterson exhibited widely throughout Europe and America, appearing in numerous museum collections and critically acclaimed exhibitions. He moved to New York in the early 2000s followed by Dallas, Texas, where he now lives and works.

It’s a month of contrasting art, as Russian Art Week returns and Pop Art icon Allen Jones’ work arrives in Mayfair w o r d s : c ar o l c o r d r e y

The talented Mr Jones The Royal Academy is doffing its dignified cap to one of its most influential and gifted artists Allen Jones RA, by mounting an exhibition of his oeuvre that spans the 1960s to the present day. There will be more than 80 of his drawings, paintings, prints, sculptures and iconic furniture works on show, demonstrating his widespread artistic talents. Although a brilliant draughtsman, Jones ventured into abstraction and experimented with wide-ranging subject matter and materials. Some of his work has been highly provocative, but Jones’ most popular works have been his vibrantly painted, stylised, steel sculptures of male and female figures, which incorporated cut-out elements to cleverly inject light and a sense of movement into each work. Allen Jones RA, 13 November – 25 January (royalacademy.org.uk)

From Russia with love To mark the enduring cultural connections between the UK and Russia, Russian Art Week returns with a programme brimming with star-studded performances and exhibitions that range across theatre, ballet, public talks and art. Our distinguished auction houses and galleries will be shining the spotlight on rare and wonderful Russian paintings, icons, Fabergé creations and other works of art. Among the numerous participating art galleries and specialists will be Jan Morsink Ikonen of Amsterdam who brings to the area his magnificent selection of 40 Russian and Greek icons dating from the 15th-19th centuries. Russian Art Week, 21 – 28 November (russianartweek.co.uk)

Q: Patterson often employs assemblages, layering impasto paint and popular media. Do those reflect his multiple memories or does Patterson represent ‘new’ Pop Art? A: Although some of his source imagery could be seen to stem from a Pop Art sensibility, Patterson’s interests are more far reaching. His layering of disparate image sources and painting techniques reflect his deep engagement with his philosophical questioning of the interconnections of meaning, image and making. Q: Though a gifted figurative painter, does a need for experimentation make him straddle portraiture, abstraction, painted toys, photography and collage? A: Experimentation is essential to his work and can be seen in the variety of media he employs; this exhibition will present his first video work Six Short Stories, large-scale photographs, paintings and sculpture. Patterson knowingly employs a battery of techniques and media, which all converge in works that reveal the inherently political nature of craft and making. Q: Will the exhibition offer the above range of art forms, and as originals or in editions? A: There will be a selection of unique works as well as several editioned pieces. Richard Patterson, 15 November – 20 December (timothytaylorgallery.com)

clockwise from top left; First Step, 1966. Oil on canvas, 92 x 92 cm. London, Private Collection. Image courtesy of the artist. © Allen Jones; Richard Patterson, Christina in Red Hat, 2014, Oil on canvas, 22 1/2 x 17 1/16 in. / 56.5 x 43.5 cm, Copyright Richard Patterson, Courtesy Timothy Taylor Gallery, London; Travelling Iconostasis; Russia, Old Believers Workshop, 19th century, 44.5 x 159 cm, from Russian Icons: Spirit and Beauty at Trinity House, Jan Morsink Ikonen from Amsterdam (morsink.com)

Kyle BloxhamMundy from the Timothy Taylor Gallery about its Richard Patterson exhibition

PRIZE LOTs #1 Two Cartier Tigers As the spotlight falls on Cartier for the 100th anniversary of its feline Panthère design, Christie’s is proving that the prowling creatures are just as popular today as they were in the early 20th century, as two Cartier tigers come to sale at Christie’s Geneva. Sought after by royalty since its inception, the elegant onyx and diamond clip brooch and bracelet with emerald eyes was originally part of the Duchess of Windsor’s legendary jewellery collection. After Edward VIII abdicated in 1936 to marry Wallis Simpson, they lived in France together and established a remarkable collection of avantgarde jewels, and the two feline jewels were bought for her from Cartier between 1956-1959. The legendary sale of her collection in 1987 was the most valuable collection of jewels ever to auction at that time, reaching a colossal $50.3m and including these two pieces. It was at this auction that Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber bought them for his then wife Sarah Brightman, and now she wants others to enjoy the pieces as much as she did as she offers them in this sensational auction. Expected value $1.8 million - $2.5 million, Magnificent Jewels sale at Christie’s Geneva, 11 November (christies.com)

#2 Happy Rockefeller by Andy Warhol Andy Warhol once said in an interview with Art News: ‘The reason I’m painting this way is that I want to be a machine, and I feel that whatever I do, and do machine-like, is what I want to do.’ He was talking about his internationally recognisable silkscreens, which can be seen replicated today on everything from greeting cards to coffee cups, making the sale of this original print even more exclusive. This process, which utilises the properties of stencils, appealed to Warhol because of its mass-

#1 Christie’s Images LTD 2014; #2 IMAGE COURTESY Phillips; #3 mage © Sotheby’s 2014

produced, machine-made look. Warhol printed a large series of portraits of Margaretta Rockefeller, known as Happy Rockefeller, the widow of Nelson Rockefeller, the 41st vice president of the United States of America. The fuchsia-tone, 30-part silkscreen on linen is being sold by Phillips New York as part of the Contemporary Art Evening Sale, which also sees a host of work from other hugely important artists such as Richard Prince, Ai Weiwei and Yoshitomo Nara. As Phillips moves into its new home on Mayfair’s Berkeley Square, this international sale is a fine way to celebrate. Expected value $600,000–$800,000, Contemporary Art Evening Sale at Phillips New York, 13 November (phillips.com)

#3 Still Life, Vase with Daisies and Poppies by Vincent van Gogh Vincent van Gogh hardly needs an introduction; his signature brush strokes and pioneering post-impressionist paintings are known around the world, and all eyes in the art world will be on his Still Life, Vase with Daisies and Poppies, as it comes to auction at Sotheby’s as one of a handful of great works by him to appear at auction in recent decades. The lot is a stunning piece; its rich colours and floral composition is pleasing to any eye, but its history makes it even more covetable. Painted in June 1890, just weeks before his death, this painting pinpoints the height of his short but celebrated career. It was painted at the home of Dr Paul Gachet in Auvers-sur-Oise, following van Gogh’s release from the asylum in Saint-Rèmy the previous month, and shows a dramatic shift in his style to a more frenetic character. It is set to be a record-breaking sale. Expected value $30 million - $50 million, Impressionist and Modern Art Evening Sale at Sotheby’s New York, 4 November (sothebys.com)

The mayfair Magazine | Art

3 57

Exhibition Focus:

Giovanni Battista Moroni His paintings have been confused with those of Titian, yet Moroni remains unfamiliar to us. In an interview with Carol Cordrey, director and curator of the Royal Academy of Art’s new exhibition Arturo Galansino reveals why, and firmly places Moroni on the lofty, Old Master pedestal he deserves

below: A Gentleman in Adoration before the Baptism of Christ, c.1555-60, Gerolamo and Roberta Etro, Photo: Gerolamo and Roberta Etro

his month marks an important moment in the art world, as paintings by Giovanni Battista Moroni (1520-79/80) go on show at the Royal Academy of Arts. You may have encountered his works, previously exhibited in many of the RA’s winter exhibitions dedicated to Old Masters, however, this will be the first comprehensive survey of his known works outside Italy. ‘Moroni’s portraits have no signatures, therefore he has been lost in the ocean of time and some of his work has been wrongly attributed to Titian, who we know admired Moroni greatly,’ reflected Galansino, following years of extensive research on the artist. This thorough research led, also, to the exciting discovery of many more portraits. Moroni’s style of painting earned him particular fame in his lifetime. The exact date of his death is still unknown but this exhibition will undoubtedly provide us with a much better awareness of Moroni and his work, because it will be arranged chronologically to reveal that he painted prolifically during his relatively short life. ‘Moroni painted religious subjects too,

especially during the latter part of his life, because the new rules of the Counter Reformation demanded the refurbishment of churches,’ explained Galansino, adding with more than a hint of excitement, ‘But Moroni gave his best to portraiture.’ His portraiture subjects were given the most arresting, lifelike range of gazes, which visitors to this exhibition will find compelling and, without doubt, unforgettable. Children and adults; males and females; aristocrats and artisans all show the hallmarks of that distinctive, magnetic, Moroni touch. Important loans of the artist’s work have been secured from collectors and museums near and far to create what will be a unique, non-touring exhibition. ‘It will include five big altar pieces by him so, for the first time, this is an opportunity to see the full extent of Moroni’s abilities and the Royal Academy is the only place to experience it,’ pronounced Galansino. Young Moroni learned technical brilliance and portraiture from his acclaimed master, Il Moretto (1498-1554) but his new style with jewel-like clarity and detail elevated him from his contemporaries, including his master. ‘Moroni was very skilled with reality but less good at invention needed for allegorical or religious subjects. He worked alone, even on his big pictures, in his local areas of Brescia, Trento, his native Albino and in Bergamo, so his limited travel may be one of the reasons he remained a famous regional artist but not an internationally acclaimed one,’ revealed Galansino. Bergamo was the capital of the silk trade and under Venetian domination. It had no royal court but it benefitted from the wealth of the

above, right: Gian Gerolamo Grumelli, c. 1560, Fondazione Museo di Palazzo Moroni - Lucretia Moroni Collection, Bergamo, Photo: Fondazione Museo di Palazzo Moroni - Lucretia Moroni Collection, Bergamo, Photography: Marco Mazzoleni

The mayfair Magazine | Art

work in Trent (Trento) during the groundbreaking Council of Trent, the style of Netherlands and German art too. Trent declared that Christian images must be direct, emotionally persuasive, inspire piety and emphasise clear pedagogical purposes for Christian followers, many of whom were illiterate. On returning to Bergamo from Trent, Moroni received large altarpiece commissions resulting from the need to refurbish churches in accordance with that declaration. His abilities with clarity and realism were ideally suited to the task.

‘The Tailor is the first known portrait of an artisan shown working with his hands’

right: Isotta Brembati, c.1555, Fondazione Museo di Palazzo Moroni - Lucretia Moroni Collection, Bergamo, Photo: Fondazione Museo di Palazzo Moroni - Lucretia Moroni Collection, Bergamo, Photography: Marco Mazzoleni

rising bourgeoisie, important professionals, community figures and that of the aristocracy in nearby Venice and Milan who wanted their portraits painted. Moroni obliged with masterpieces such as Isotta Brembati, The Widower (Portrait of a Gentleman and his Two Children), A Knight with his Jousting Helmet and, of surprising importance, The Tailor. ‘In the history of art, The Tailor is the first known portrait of an artisan shown working with his hands. He is well dressed, proud to be using his scissors cutting black velvet – very fashionable then – and he is portrayed as a gentleman so he commands respect,’ was Galansino’s astute analysis. Bergamo’s booming textile trade produced many wealthy tailors and this one has Moroni’s classic, realistic treatment of a psychologically penetrating gaze, dignified air, drama and detail. His inspiration came from the spread of Venetian art and, following his invitation to

Some of them, as well as commissioned private devotional works, will be displayed alongside his portraits for the first time in this exhibition. Together, they provide a clear and comprehensive view of what made Moroni famous then and why he deserves, without doubt, to stand tall on that Old Master pedestal now. Giovanni Battista Moroni, 25 October – 25 January (royalacademy.org.uk)

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The mayfair Magazine | Interiors

Interiors news WORDS: Aimee McLaughlin

Lap of luxury Something exciting is happening on Hay Hill for the devoted furniture connoisseur: Italian luxury leather specialist Baxter has opened its first UK showroom at Anna Casa. The collection features an array of influences from the 1950s, with butter-soft leather sofas and armchairs drenched in hues of aubergine and sage green. We love Baxter’s beautifully textured Mongolian lambswool chair, which strikes the perfect balance between comfort and elegance. Close your eyes and its white shaggy fur will make it feel as though you are reclining on your very own domesticated cloud. Baxter London, 2 Hay Hill, W1J (annacasa.net)

FINISHING TOUCH The launch of Christian Lacroix’s fashion house in 1987 was met with cries of ‘Vive Lacroix’ from the fashion world as he usurped minimalism with his unique brand of eccentricity, and his personal interest in costume design shines through with this new porcelain collection. Lacroix’s fanciful creatures, adorned with brightly coloured jewels and accessories, are the perfect addition to any kitchen in need of a touch of theatricality. (christian-lacroix.com)

Wall to wall Harriet Tubman said: ‘Every great dream begins with a dreamer’. AEE Design caters to even the most whimsical of interiors fantasies with its Visioni artistic resin panels. Soak in the bath while surrounded by ethereal blue and burned-yellow orbs or relax in the living room against a stunning backdrop of marbled browns and greys. Waterproof and scratch-resistant surfacing make the panels a beautiful and functional alternative to traditional wallpapers. (aeedesign.it)

The birds and the leaves Looking at Hinchcliffe & Barber’s printed cushion, you can almost picture the creatures that frequent the bird feeder in Wendy Barber’s country garden. The Dorset-based ceramics and homeware company has remained firmly rooted in its British decorative tradition with this design. The subtlety of the silver-grey backdrop allows the piercing blue ornamental birds and leaves to take centre stage in your living room. Birds & Leaves cushion, £45, Hinchcliffe & Barber (hinchcliffeandbarber.com) 61

BY THE BOOK

As Assouline marks 20 years in publishing with a flagship store on Piccadilly, Kari Colmans meets the man whose pictures speak a thousand words, Prosper Assouline

t’s a tricky business initiative to get your head around: Kindles and other e-readers are burying paperback sales in mountains of proverbial waste-paper, blogs and blasts are giving dailies a run for their hot-off-the-press, morning-after-the-night-before money and anyone can give a smartphone generated snapshot an arty 1960s grain. Yet Prosper Assouline – founder of the luxury lifestyle brand and one of the most exceptional publishers of beautiful books the world over, Assouline – decided there was only one way to respond to such an ever-growing post-paper market tide. Make the proportions bigger, the text shorter and then add an extra zero to the price tag. To date, the brand has published more than 1,200 titles across international markets on subjects including fashion, art, architecture, design, culinary arts, photography and travel, stocked only on the shelves of the world’s chicest cities. The tomes range from classic coffee-table trimmings (Dior, In the Spirit of Capri, Vintage

The mayfair Magazine | Feature

Cocktails) to the specialist (Arabian Horses) and the downright kooky (Gypset Travel, anyone?), but the majority of the publisher’s work comes from private commissions. Like all great romances, Prosper’s love affair with the written word began with no thought for what the future held. He had worked as an assistant director on a number of magazines in Paris, as well as advising labels such as Chanel on their marketing and branding strategies, while his wife Martine had modelled as well as running the strategic communications at Louis Vuitton and Rochas. Falling in love with the inn-come-restaurant La Colombe d’Or in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, a cultural hub for artists and thinkers during the 1940s, the couple decided to publish a book about it. And the rest, as they say, is history. ‘So 20 years ago it was a decision... not to make a publishing company,’ Prosper laughs in heavily accented French, perched on the edge of a stunning leather couch in the current Claridge’s store. ‘We wanted to [make a book] because we were in love with this place! I did a picture, she wrote the text. There was no vision to create something like what [the brand is] today. We did it with a lot of love [but] no expectations.’ As part of its 20th anniversary celebrations this autumn, Assouline will be opening its first international flagship, Maison Assouline, situated at 196A Piccadilly. Originally a banking hall designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens in 1922, the

‘We wanted to [make a book] because we were in love with this place! I did a picture, she wrote the text’ Grade II-listed building was one of the most iconic locations in the capital, and will now act as an all-encompassing Assouline lifestyle hub. From an exclusive line of furniture comprising everything from lamps to sofas (like the one we’re sitting on); leather-embossed book bags, 

Maison Assouline on Piccadilly, © Frank Laws. all other images © Assouline

scented library candles, one-of-a-kind curiosités; vintage compendiums curated by the brand and a host of other prints, gifts, accessories, stationery, services and – of course – books, it’s clear that Prosper’s ‘non-vision’ has led to more than he ever thought possible. ‘For us, each book is like a movie. Take Paris in the 20s, for example; you can [almost] hear the music. We live the dream. Even if you don’t read it, you’re going to enjoy it, because you are going to understand; between the captions and the pictures, we [will tell you] something. When you touch them, you will feel something in your emotions and for me that’s very important.

I have an obligation to help you every morning; to help you know something [more]. I want people when they turn the page to not have to read the text immediately, but to enjoy it: to understand the book’s spirit. To know that we have defined and captured the subject’s DNA… in a book!’ Prosper’s son has followed in his parents’ footsteps. Having started the business when he was just a toddler, it seemed like a natural step, but it was one he came to on his own. ‘It was his decision, which is important and I respect that,’ he says. ‘But I’m very happy about it.’ For him,

The mayfair Magazine | Feature

it’s a passion you are born with. ‘I have a book from when I was five or six years old. It has a mixture of engravings and text and I still read it every year because I love the layout; the proportions between the typography and the images. I’m in love with books – really in love.’ So much so that on his travels around the world, they’re the only thing he collects: ‘What else am I going to buy, shoes?’ he laughs. The family has a huge athenaeum of 17th and 18th-century novels, illustrated publications on

‘You can go to Berkeley Square and buy a Bugatti in five colours, but you cannot buy culture’

keep it on,’ he says. ‘We will be offering an entire lifestyle concept: from the carpet to the sofa, the desk to the light – everything. It’s the complete package. Each collection will follow the name of one of our books; High Society will feel like you are in the contemporary library of Populaire. Allure will use goatskin and bronze. We fill it with 500 books; our own, of course, but also vintage books and objects. We customise to theme too; travel or fashion. Or fishing if that’s what the client wants! ‘The only thing you cannot buy today is culture. You can buy 20 Ferraris. You can go to Berkeley Square and buy a Bugatti in five colours, but you cannot buy culture. A good library is something that comes alive. We are not furniture designers, we design furniture for libraries. We create an important dream. And it’s a dream we sell.’

every subject imaginable, which are stored between their homes in Paris and New York. His love of the old is shared by his customers, with the most popular requests usually stemming back to the first prints ever made. ‘Around 70 per cent of our sales every year are from our backlist.’ Ever humble, Prosper is still out the door at 7.30am, day in, day out. ‘A perfectionist is never happy because he’s never finished! As soon as they come back from being printed I open them and I smell them to capture their essence. I turn it around to see how it looks. But I don’t like to go back too much in case I see a mistake!’ As well as the new maison, the brand has launched a bespoke library offering as part of its Assouline Home service. It was born out of a singular private commission, which saw the team create every aspect of the space: ‘We are a publisher, but now we create the chair you sit and read our books on, the bookshelf you can

Interiors | The mayfair Magazine

the shape of things to come

he impossibly stylish French designer Guillaume Alan joined the Mayfair design scene in 2012, and has since made an elegant impression on the area. His signature monochromatic minimalism translates through to his new A/W14 collection, which embodies 18thcentury design principles and timeless 21st-century aesthetics, and plays to the

brand’s ideals of French decadence with a hint of English refinement, to give it an overall subtle, contemporary feel. His softly structured pieces feature the very finest details such as a Béluga finish and Savile Row wool made in Scotland, and would make an understated yet alluring impression on any home. Guillaume Alan, 1 Hay Hill, W1J (guillaume-alan.com)

‘His softly structured pieces feature the very finest details’ 66

mayfair

Resident’s Journal

IMAGE: Royal Collection Trust / © Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II 2014

From the Editor Dear Resident, The Journal has food on the brain this month and, as the winter months draw closer, we’re turning our attention to staying indoors and enjoying heart-warming cuisine surrounded by fine wine and good company. If you – like me – enjoy a good dinner party, make sure you check out sommelier Michael Simms’ event at Sartoria; there’s nothing quite like enjoying fine fare and making new local acquaintances. Meanwhile, foodies who are eager to learn how to cook like a professional should check out the masterclass by Atul Kochhar of Benares restaurant, where enthusiasts can brush up their skills in the heart of Berkeley Square. Flick to The Calendar to find out more about both events. Elsewhere, I speak to Henry and George Graham, co-founders of Wolf & Badger, about how their innovative business model is helping to change the traditional method of high-street shopping. Turn to our Local Fashion page to read on. Finally, we’ve rounded up all the latest news in The Notebook, while our Planning and Development page details new projects in the area. I hope you enjoy the read. Francesca Lee, Editor Mayfair Residents’ Journal

The Residents’ Society of Mayfair & St James’s Committee Members Chairman Anthony Lorenz (Events & Traffic)

Secretary Richard Cutt (Crossrail & Finance)

Planning Applications Ronald Cottee (Planning)

Membership Anthony Lorenz (Membership & Website)

Traffic Lois Peltz

Police Mary-Louise Burrows

Licensing Derek Stratton

The Calendar Outstanding events for Mayfair residents keen to get out and about

7 November – 22 February DOCUMENTING A BYGONE ERA

Until 8 November WILDE TRIALS

Sartoria’s sommelier Michael Simms is holding an intimate dinner party where he will pair six wines with three courses of the restaurant’s Italian cuisine. The menu includes delicious dishes like escalope of veal with pancetta and sage and lobster linguine. The groups are limited to only 15 guests to maintain intimacy and give diners the chance to talk to Simms about the wines in detail. The evening is meant to be informative, enjoyable and memorable, and it is a good opportunity to meet new people who share your interests in fine food and interesting wines, as well as offering a chance to discover a new favourite grape. £45 per person, 7pm, Sartoria, 20 Savile Row, W1S, 020 7534 7000 (sartoria-restaurant.co.uk)

To fully appreciate Cairo to Constantinople: Early Photographs of the Middle East, the latest exhibition at the Queen’s Gallery in Buckingham Palace, book a ticket to hear a talk from a Royal Collection Trust specialist or curator in the gallery’s Redgrave Room. The days of colonial exploration across north Africa and the Middle East may be over, but they can be relived through the many photographs on display at this exhibition. Adults £18.50, concessions £16.65, under-17s £9.25, 11am, group talk lasts 90 minutes, talks take place on selected Tuesdays and Thursdays throughout the exhibition, group sizes 25-80, The Queen’s Gallery, Buckingham Palace, SW1A, 020 7766 7300 (royalcollection.org.uk)

Merlin Holland, the sole grandchild of Oscar Wilde, has co-written The Trials of Oscar Wilde, charting his grandfather’s fall from grace. Based on the libel and criminal trials that Wilde endured in 1895, The Trials of Oscar Wilde it is played out in the intimate space of the Trafalgar Studios. Drama and tension are sure to be high – Wilde was sentenced to two years’ hard labour after he was found guilty of indecent behaviour – and this performance includes original dialogue taken from the official proceedings of the court. From £15, Monday-Saturday at 7.45pm, Thursday and Saturday matinees at 3pm, Trafalgar Studios, 4 Whitehall, SW1A, 0844 871 7632 (atgtickets.com) left: Portrait with mask by oleg Tselkov

right: image by Delany Dean; far right: image © IWM

3 November INTIMATE AND INFORMATIVE

provoking thoughts intimate and informative

wilde trials

mayfair RESIDENTS’ JOURNAL | The Calendar

16 November LEARNING FROM AN EXPERT

27 November A BIRTHDAY BUNKER

Until 28 November PROVOKING THOUGHTS

Atul Kochhar, the chef at Benares, is opening up his kitchen for eager amateur cooks who wish to improve their understanding of Indian cuisine. Atul, who has two Michelin stars under his culinary belt, applies a contemporary approach to the way in which he prepares and creates his dishes. The day will begin with a breakfast of pastries, tea and coffee; after which the group will watch Atul create six of his signature seasonal dishes, with the opportunity to ask questions. For an additional cost, guests can enjoy lunch in the restaurant after the class. £250 per person, additional £65 per guest for lunch, 9.30am, 12a Berkeley Square House,

Churchill’s famous War Rooms are open into the small hours on this noted date to celebrate the renowned former prime minister’s birthday. The corridors that saw the strategists and government personnel work tirelessly to protect the country throughout the Second World War will be filled with party guests. A pop-up bar will be serving drinks including Churchill’s favourite Champagne, Pol Roger, which seems a fitting accompaniment to admire the life and legacy of the man himself in the Churchill Museum. This year marks the 140th year of the revered politician’s birth. Adults £17.50, concessions £14, 7pm-10pm, Churchill War Rooms, Clive Steps, King Charles

Russian artist Oleg Tselkov’s work is on display at Alon Zakaim Fine Art until the end of this month. Alter Ego features a collection of oil paintings designed to challenge people’s perceptions of Russian society. The pieces frequently present expressionless figures wielding symbols of productivity or oppression such as a spade, knife or crucifix. These revealing canvases were influenced by Tselkov’s life in Russia, and eventually resulted in the artist being exiled from his country in 1977 when he then continued his artistic career in Paris. Free admission, Monday-Friday 9am-6pm, Saturday and Sunday by appointment only, 5-7 Dover Street, W1S, 020 7287 7750 (alonzakaim.com)

Berkeley Square, W1J, 020 7629 8886 (benaresrestaurant.com)

Street, SW1A, 020 7930 6961 (iwm.org.uk)

learning from an expert

a birthday bunker

The Notebook Local news from around the area

BRUNCH TIME BRILLIANCE The Grand Café Villandry in St James’s has recently launched a new brunch menu, featuring all the usual favourites: eggs Benedict, Royale and Florentine, smoked salmon and scrambled eggs and omelettes. For guests with a sweeter tooth, be sure to sample the cake platter, washed down with an expertly-crafted coffee. Sittings at 10am, 12pm and 2pm, 12 Waterloo Place, SW1Y, 020 7930 3305 (villandry.com)

SINGING IN ST JAMES’S The Hogarth Singers frequently perform in St James’s, Piccadilly, and this month the group is busy preparing for its autumn concert on 15 November. Vocal chords will be put to the test with performances of Gloria by Vivaldi and Missa Cellensis by Haydn. The concert will also mark the group’s 30th anniversary, so expect celebrations all round. Advance tickets £12 (on the door £15), concessions available, St James’s Church, 197 Piccadilly ,W1J, 07880 600 991 (hogarth-singers.org) photo: John Linwood

CHRISTMAS IS COMING On the evening of 14 November, the South Molton Street lights will be switched on to get the Christmas season off to a glittering start. Lining the shopping mews of Mayfair around South Molton Street and Brook Street, the twinkling decorations will remain up until the New Year. Mulled wine and mince pies will be available free of charge from local shops, as will Champagne and chocolates. What’s more, the evening offers the perfect opportunity to make a start on Christmas shopping. Free admission, 14 November, South Molton Street, W1K

mayfair RESIDENTS’ JOURNAL | The Notebook

treatment began. A cleanser was applied, followed by a wrap in a hot towel which opened up my London-beaten skin and

‘As I breathed in the relaxing aromas of the room, the sedate spa music enveloped me in a cocoon of calm’

Treatment of the month: The journey to the val-mont facial

Tom Hagues finds out what it’s like to be pampered

he Dorchester Spa launched its latest treatment for male clients last month, The Journey to the Val-Mont facial, which is offered as three different packages: Express, Complete, and Intensive. I sampled the Intensive package, which was anything but

a hardship. As I breathed in the relaxing aromas of the room, the sedate spa music enveloped me in a cocoon of calm as the beautician massaged her way up my neck and shoulders. After a thorough de-tensing, the facial

allowed it to breathe. A series of face rubs and massages followed, along with more hot towel wraps. I soon forgot that the beautician was there as I sank into the bed. Afterwards, I was shown to the relaxation lounge where opulence is key. The intense blue-toned room provides the perfect atmosphere to readjust post-treatment where I hydrated with water flavoured with rose petals. After spending some time in the steam room as well, I left the spa feeling like a new man. The Intensive option lasts for around 90 minutes and features massages and a personalised treatment plan to keep clients’ skin glowing. The Express and Complete versions last for 32 and 62 minutes respectively. Express £75, Complete £165, Intensive £187, The Dorchester Spa, 53 Park Lane, W1K, 020 7319 7109 (dorchestercollection.com)

WINE AND DINE Claridge’s plays host to two special dinners hosted by world-renowned wine and Champagne producers, Bollinger (13 November) and Joseph Drouhin (27 November) this month. Bollinger was awarded a Royal Warrant in 1884, and since then it has been popular with everyone from wine-experts to fictional characters like James Bond. Joseph Drouhin meanwhile produces more than 90 appellations and has been around since 1880, but in recent years it has embraced the times by converting its estate to biodynamic viticulture. Both these evenings begin with aperitifs and an introduction to the beverages from a representative of the prospective winery, followed by a four-course dinner. £250 per person, 6.30pm on both evenings, Claridge’s, Brook Street, W1K, 020 7107 8872 (claridges.co.uk)

REGENCY LUXURY Last month saw the launch of Conrad London St James, a luxury hotel with 256 bedrooms. The historic 19th-century building’s interior boasts locally-inspired design with attention-grabbing artworks and bespoke furniture. This level of finesse continues in the restaurant where seasonal British food and local ales are served. 22-28 Broadway, SW1H, 020 3301 8080 (conradhotels.com)

mayfair RESIDENTS’ JOURNAL | Local Fashion

Local Fashion The Journal chats to Henry and George Graham, co-founders of Wolf & Badger

in many ways including facilitating introductions to trade buyers and the press and providing on-going feedback about their collections to make their brands more commercially successful.

Conceptual commerce Fashion designers are increasingly turning to innovative retailer Wolf & Badger, where they pay a monthly fee for a retail space but they receive the majority of the sales. Francesca Lee finds out more… What inspired you to start the business in 2009? My brother and I decided that there must be a better way for aspiring luxury brands to showcase and sell their collections and pieces in a retail environment. Why did you choose Mayfair – in particular Dover Street – to launch your store? We always wanted to open a store on Dover Street as it is centrally located, has proximity to Old Bond Street and has a great mix of retailers and a diverse demographic of customers including locals, business people and tourists alike. We were very lucky when a space came up. Your Notting Hill and Mayfair shops stock a range of different independent designers; how and why do these vary? Our stock selection is catered to the type of customer who visits each store. Notting Hill has more resort-wear and accessories as well as 6

more knitwear, staple pieces and quirky jewellery. Mayfair has more conceptual fashion and statement jewellery and pieces that can be taken from day to night. Your business model is innovative. How did you come up with this? We decided that the best way to cater to new designers was to share the overheads of the space with the brands themselves, and for us as a business to take a lower than usual share of sales proceeds. That way, the brands benefit from having a beautiful but cost effective shop, and with low overheads too. How does your business empower and encourage young designers? We have worked with more than 1,000 young brands during the past four years and helped

Some luxury retailers are struggling; do you think the traditional method of high-street shopping needs to be adapted? Yes. To date, some have been wary of e-commerce. Retailers need to embrace that they have physical store space and utilise it as a showroom for their e-commerce offering as much as just a shop for passing customers. Multi-channel retail is more than just a buzzword; if brands put half as much effort into their online offering as they do their physical stores and integrated the two in an intelligent manner they would not be having difficulties. Which designers do you wear personally? We choose a selection from young designers including shoes by Marcus de, T-shirts by pop. see.cul, socks by London Sock Co, shirts by Made4Fighters and outwear by Peregrine. What advice would you give to someone hoping to work in fashion retail? Work hard, have a clear vision of your brand identity and make sure the manufacturing is impeccable. What are your future plans for the business? Continue to grow the reach and scale of our e-commerce site, open more stores in fashion capitals around the world and add more services for the brands we work with. (wolfandbadger.com) below: George and Henry Graham

mayfair RESIDENTS’ mayfair JOURNAL RESIDENTS’ | Planning JOURNAL & Development | Diary

Planning & Development Ground-level developments and societal structural changes in the area

Planning applications in the local area Date received: 21 August Proposal: Internal alterations on all levels including the removal of ceilings and the installation of CCTV on front and rear elevations Address: South Audley Street ROOM WITH A VIEW Clarges Mayfair is the latest residential and business project to be developed in the area, with 93,500 sq ft of apartment space and 47,800 sq ft reserved for offices. Upon completion, there will also be 14,800 sq ft of retail and leisure space within the complex. The residential aspect of the build will comprise 34 apartments over 10 floors, which will differ in size from one to five bedrooms. As is ever the case with properties in Mayfair, luxury is one of the key focuses of the apartments and each resident will have use of a private wellness spa that will include a 25-metre swimming pool, gym and treatment rooms. The residences will also benefit from a private cinema room and gated mews. In recent months, 18 of these properties have been sold to buyers from the UK and abroad, with the total of the sales so far amounting to £210million. This success is partly due to the enviable location of the building, which is close to Bond Street and overlooks Green Park and Buckingham Palace, meaning the top floors are expected to have panoramic views that will be among the best in the area. The building was designed by architects Squire and Partners, while the interiors of the apartments have been planned by Martin Kemp Design. With work well under way, the office space is due for completion in 2016 and the apartments will be finished a year later in 2017. Once most of the building work has taken shape and buyers can appreciate the design and quality of the properties, the rest will be released for general sale. (clargesmayfair.com)

Date received: 5 September Proposal: Installation of replacement shop front Address: Maddox Street Date received: 16 September Proposal: Display PVC advertising banner Address: Coventry Street Date received: 19 September Proposal: Use of part of the ninth floor of Berkeley Square house as office floorspace (Class B1) Address: Berkeley Square

Planned road works and closures in and around November STREET

PLANNED WORK

DATES

WORKS OWNER

Berkeley Square

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1-14 November

UKPN East & Lon Ltd 0800 028 4587

Mount Street

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1-14 November

UKPN East & Lon Ltd

Pall Mall

New water supply

13-27 November

Thames Water 0845 9200 800

Piccadilly

Repair Thames water valve in carriageway

5-7 November

Thames Water

mayfair

Residentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Journal mayfair@residentsjournal.co.uk 020 7987 4320

If you have a view that you would like to share with the Mayfair Residentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Journal team, we would be delighted to hear from you. Please contact the Editor at the above email address.

The mayfair Magazine | Feature

Anglo-anarchism Britain’s treasured first lady of fashion reveals her story with dramatic honesty and poignant vulnerability in Vivienne Westwood by the fashion designer and Ian Kelly W o r d s : A i m e e M c L a u g h li n

T BELOW: Portrait OF VIVIENNE WESTWOOD by Christian Chambenoit; right COLUMN: as extracted from vIVIENNE WESTWOOD by Vivienne Westwood and Ian Kelly

he undisputed queen of controversy, Dame Vivienne Westwood’s iconic four-decade reign over the world of fashion has seen her take on a seemingly endless number of roles. Although first and foremost she’s a globally recognised British fashion designer, she is also one of the original creators of punk and a political and environmental activist. Her collaborative piece of writing with Ian Kelly, the self-titled part-memoir part-authorised biography, sees her tackle her feelings about each of these titles with refreshingly barefaced honesty. Exercising self-acceptance and selfdeprecation, the book goes a long way towards unravelling the mass of contradictions that make the Dame. VIVIENNE WESTWOOD by Vivienne Westwood and Ian Kelly, published by Picador, £25

Vivienne on herself The only reason I am in fashion is to destroy the word conformity. Nothing is interesting to me unless it’s got that element. So we began in our shop Let It Rock with a look from the fifties. The walls were covered with pages torn out of fifties pin-up porno magazines – these ravaged or shipwrecked temptresses. The fifties also inspired me to have a crew cut. My hair was fine so I dyed it blond [sic] to make it more coarse so it would stick up. Then I took pleasure in letting it grow longer but still sticking up, and this hairstyle caught on. People had never seen this before. To sum up the whole idea of “Vivienne”, not that I am sure I want to or that one could, you’d need to find the references; the ideas from the past and the goals for the future.

Vivienne on life I’m not interested in things for myself. I am not materialistic. Ideas make me happy – and making things, I suppose, making beauty out of ideas. But the ideas are more important, and increasingly, of course, the ideas are huge: the end of humanity. I think of my family a lot. And my friends. I do want to say, as well, and it’s a sort of apology, with regards to the people I love, that I know I am difficult. I am not an easy person or an ordinary person – my life is not an ordinary life. I don’t have time to see my friends or, you know, go and make jam or just ordinary things, you know, that grandmothers do. And sometimes I wish I did. And I do think it is to do with me always thinking, “I will try and solve this thing.” I think it’s to do with that, more than anything else. But at the same time, this instinct made me who I am. I get myself into situations.

The mayfair Magazine | Feature

The king of kitsch He is known for turning seemingly everyday objects into some of the most sought after contemporary art in the world, fetching some of the highest prices at auction. In a new book, Jeff Koons reveals his personal view on the subject, his mentors and how kitsch became cool... and very valuable w o r d s : J a c k W a t ki n s

hen a politician nears the end of their term of office, they start to contemplate their legacy. In a similar vein, it seems, the mind of an ageing artist also becomes more concentrated. ‘I’m 55 now,’ Jeff Koons remarks in a new book Jeff Koons: Conversations with Norman Rosenthal, ‘so I have a greater sense of my own mortality and I don’t want to waste my energies… I want to open myself up to the possibilities that I have.’ Not that he’s anywhere near the end of the road, of course. Artists on the whole are a long-living tribe, remaining active into old age. David Hockney, still going strong today, is only one example. Titian, whom Koons reveres, was 90 when he painted the masterpiece The Flaying of Marsyas. And Koons, the master alchemist of turning consumer objects into high art, is still in full flow and in big demand, with his designs adorning the cover of Lady Gaga’s Artpop album in 2013, and his Balloon Dog sculpture going for $58.4m at Christie’s last winter. Indeed, Christie’s New York will be presenting the smooth, glittering 20-foot-long Balloon Monkey (orange) at the entrance of Christie’s 20 Rockefeller Plaza this month, before being sold on 12 November.

Still, being the subject of a 35-year career retrospective exhibition which has just finished at the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York, and now heads for the Centre Georges Pompidou, in Paris, and then on to Bilbao’s Guggenheim, he is entitled to pause for a moment’s reflection. His inquisitor, the critic Rosenthal, was the former exhibition’s secretary at the Royal Academy from 1977 to 2008, and the rapport between the pair is obvious. Koons is open and engaging. He sounds as agreeable as he looks in the photo on the book cover – bounding along in a white suit, with a giant plastic lobster under his arm. That lobster featured in his Popeye series of the last decade, but it also indirectly references Salvador Dalí. It seems totally appropriate that it was an encounter with the great Surrealist, which set Koons’ mind upon a career as an artist. Still in his teens, he met the Spaniard when the latter had travelled to New York for an exhibition in 1973, boldly plucking up the courage to ring his hotel, and being invited to meet him. Dalí was known for always dressing as

‘Everything is already here. You just need to look at the world around you’ – Jeff Koons if wherever he was situated was the most important event he had ever attended. ‘And sure enough,’ Koons recalls to Rosenthal, ‘meeting me there in the lobby he was dressed with a tie – he had on a fur coat, and a tie with diamond pins coming through it.’ One of the photos Koons was allowed to take of him, resplendent in fur and flowing locks, moustache immaculately waxed, is in the book. Koons’ sense of history is apparent throughout his answers to Rosenthal, but so too in his refreshing openness. So much of what he says seems applicable to life beyond the world

OPENING page, clockwise from top left: lips, 2000; inflatable flower and bunny (Tall White and Pink Bunny), 1979; Landscape (Waterfall) II, 2007; MOON (Light Blue), 1995-2000; RIGHT: JEFF KOONS (PHOTO © JStone); BELOW, RIGHT: Bourgeois Bust - Jeff and Ilona, 1991; ALL IMAGES © JEFF KOONS

The mayfair Magazine | Feature

of art. As he remarks at one point: ‘Everything is already here. You just need to look at the world around you. You’re not going to find something that’s not already here. Whatever your interests are, if you look for them, you’ll find them.’ That philosophy goes to the core of his art, which is less an exploration of the self, than of the world outside. It’s why he gave up painting – too subjective – and why early works like Inflatable Flower and Bunny were store-bought ready-made objects which he effectively allowed simply ‘to display themselves’. It was only an accident in the process of preparing for his first big international show that revealed to him that he was less concerned with the integrity of the object, than with ‘the beauty of the viewer’. In the process of having a bronze sculpture he had discovered in Munster, Germany, cast in stainless steel, the foundry tasked with the project damaged the sculpture and accidentally deformed it. For Koons, it was a liberating event, meaning that his Banality series of works, staged in 1988 and featuring images ranging from John the Baptist to Michael Jackson, would feature no replicas of ready-mades. ‘Everything is just from a montage of different images and different things pulled together and made by hand. The viewer is the readymade, what’s happening inside them.’ It’s often said that Koons’ work is a celebration of kitsch. He says he chose the word ‘banality’ because it is a less judgmental term. The Banality series itself was his way of fighting back against the judgementality of art. ‘People use art

to disempower people,’ he explains. ‘I wanted to make a body of work that was all about empowerment and to let people know that everything in their past, in their cultural past, is perfect.’ There’s such a childlike joy and simplicity in so much of Koons’ work. It’s inevitable Rosenthal asks him if he still thinks of himself as being a child today. His answer is typical. He says he revels in the openness of childhood, the way children enjoy green for being green, or a shape for being a shape, and the way they don’t make judgments about things. ‘So I enjoy that openness from childhood, but I have to say I love the consciousness of mature life... of how to try to have a vaster possibility. With a child it’s just energy.’ Koons has revealing things to say on selfreliance, opportunity, the nature of luck, and above all, ‘culture’. For many people, the output from his studio may represent everything they loathe about modern art, the garishness of his creations failing to mask a seeming absence of real passion or feeling. But, reading his responses to Rosenthal’s meticulous probing, you get the feeling that not caring would be one of the worst things you could accuse him of. And this great boundary-breaker certainly knows how to make you think. ‘Jeff Koons: Conversations with Norman Rosenthal’ is published by Thames & Hudson and is available now (thamesandhudson.com)

Annabel’s after dark Untitled Entertainment and Ridley Scott Associates take us on an access-all-areas tour of Annabel’s, one of London’s most iconic haunts for the famous and fashionable for more than 50 years, in a new documentary W o r d s : K a t e Ra c o v o li s

here are members’ clubs, and then there is Annabel’s. The club is known for many things; its slew of celebrity and royal guests, nights of endlessly flowing Claret and its famed, intensely rich chocolate cake are among its many virtues. It also counts Her Majesty the Queen as one of its guests; it’s the only nightclub she has visited. Last year, as the club celebrated its 50th anniversary, Ridley Scott’s production company RSA approached Annabel’s about producing a documentary, charting its peaks and troughs as what has become one of London’s most famous and chic haunts. This month, A String of Naked Nightclubs debuts at the Curzon cinema, and it’s an hour of revelry in itself, as its famous guests from Anna Wintour to Nicky Haslam and Goldie Hawn pay homage to the treasured hangout. Watching the film makes you feel as though you’ve been given an access-all-areas pass to the notoriously private club, starting with its early

Diana Ross and Arne Naess, Annabel’s 1991

days when Mark Birley established Annabel’s on Berkeley Square, when, as Goldie Hawn recalls, ‘I remember the first time I walked into Annabel’s, it was 1970 and I was making my second movie and I’d never been to London, and I remember going into this club and feeling like I was absolutely transported.’ The film takes us on a tour of the dimly lit, richly coloured and decadent Art Deco interiors, and its longstanding staff – such as Abderrazat Mohammed Ghannam, the club ambassador, who served Her Majesty – share their remarkable stories about Annabel’s esteemed guests. ‘Diana Ross would walk straight into the club, straight onto the dancefloor, she loved dancing,’ says Cass ‘The Gas’ – Annabel’s’ DJ. It doesn’t gloss over the challenges the club has faced over the years – such as how to ensure the its future success – and reminds us of its timelessness and continued ability to wow and surprise its guests after the sun sets over Berkeley Square.

Eddie Redmayne and Nicky Haslam

Joan Collins, Annabel’s 1987

‘I’m not sure if celebrities even existed back then, they just came because they enjoyed it, certainly Mark [Birley] wouldn’t woo them, I think he just thought that The Beatles were a scruffy lot of silly boys’ – Nicky Haslam, Interior Designer 72

The mayfair Magazine | Feature

‘I think everything came together in a magical way because obviously it was a decade or a little bit more since the war, there was a sense of renewal and rebirth to England, the 60s was an extraordinary time to be in London, and at the centre of that was Annabel’s standing for the old world but also representing the new’ – Anna Wintour

joan rivers

Emma Watson & Douglas Booth

anna wintour

‘London is now kind of going through a great phase, it’s really at the centre of everything – the art scene, music, all kinds of cultural great events are happening here. It’s like the centre of the world. And you could say that Annabel’s in Berkeley Square is the centre of that world!’ – Bryan Ferry lady gaga

‘Everybody knows everybody… “Hello, Miss Moss” - Kate Moss

The mayfair Magazine | Feature

“It is the only nightclub that the Queen has ever been to… she drank gin martini, no lemon. I serve people from all around the world, movie stars, royalty from all different countries but to serve Her Majesty the Queen, Elizabeth, was the greatest honour I have ever had’. – Abderrazat Mohammed Ghannam, club ambassador

the queen at annabel’s

‘Frank Sinatra, whenever he was in London, this was his club’ – Abderrazat Mohammed Ghannam, club ambassador 75

Second nature

Added bespoke design options and fine-tuned connectivity make the Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II a serious option for motoring connoisseurs w o r d s : R I CH A RD Y A RRO W 76

The mayfair Magazine | Motoring

ar launches often use five-star hotels in the countryside, where there’s plenty of space for media guests to dine well, stay overnight and take pretty photographs of the new vehicle. Attend enough of these events and the same locations come up time and again. It is evidence of the attention to detail that Rolls-Royce puts into the launch of the Ghost Series II that, a) we journalists went somewhere we had never been before, and b) nobody else had either, because it was being rented out to the luxury manufacturer by one of its own customers. If the same care had been taken selecting the other venue used – The Shard in central London – then more time would have been spent actually driving the car and less sat in tedious stop-start city traffic. I start with this minor moan because it’s really the only criticism I can level at the revised ‘baby’ Rolls. Even on a staccato journey through the urban jungle, the Ghost behaved perfectly well and is a wonderful and cosseting vehicle in which to spend time. It’s just I’d rather be driving it on the open road, mostly because I feel self-conscious waiting at traffic lights – and being stared at by pedestrians – in a two-tone super-saloon costing £220,000. So to the car. The Ghost was launched in 2009 as R-R’s entry-level vehicle, smaller than the Phantom and aimed more at those who perhaps want to be driven during the week but take the wheel themselves on Saturdays and Sundays. In the company’s rather flowery marketing speak,

it’s ‘an exquisitely appointed tool for the business week and an engaging and effortless driving experience for leisure at the weekend’. The first-generation car was a runaway hit, taking the brand from 1,000 sales a year before its launch to four times that number now. It has attracted a younger clientele made up of entrepreneurs and captains of industry for whom a Phantom is too much, in both senses of the words. These are the types of people who will run their business on the go and so want the latest technology in their car. Mobile connectivity has moved on massively in the past five years, so

‘Rolls has updated the Ghost’s offering, taking the chance to give it a front-end facelift’ Rolls has updated the Ghost’s offering, taking the chance to give it a front-end facelift and offer customers a new range of bespoke design options. As more than 80 per cent already choose some of those, it’s a smart move. If you want a monogrammed stainless-steel fuel-filler cap, it’s no problem. Christened Ghost Series II, the newcomer was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March and the first customer cars are leaving the Goodwood factory now. Let’s start with that upgraded connectivity, accessed via something called the Spirit of 

Ecstasy Rotary Controller whether you’re in the front or back seats. It’s basically a big centrally mounted knob you can shift, turn or push, which allows use of on-board WiFi, internet access, TV, email, file-sharing, telephony and video-conferencing. Getting from A to B is as simple as saying ‘navigate to Piccadilly in London’. Information is displayed on a new 10.25-in HD screen. The top of the Rotary Controller acts as a touchpad and can recognise characters written by finger in English, Latin, Arabic and Mandarin. It also allows ‘pull and pinch’ controls – replicating smartphone functionality – to increase or decrease screen detail. The biggest design change to the Ghost is at the front end. Indeed, the rear hasn’t been touched at all – a very rare example of a company resisting the urge to fiddle for the sake of it. As styling boss Giles Taylor stated when he pointed out the enhancements, it’s all about ‘the power of simplicity’ and a facelifted Rolls will never get metal adornments on the lower sections of the doors or bumpers just because. The nose has been subtly tweaked to make the Ghost seem visually wider, pushing elements such as the light clusters and lower air intakes closer to the outer edges. The front track remains unchanged, but the wings above have been smoothed for a focused and more integrated stance. A slight curve has been added to the bonnet, which features a new tapered ‘wake channel’ behind the famous Spirit of Ecstasy mascot. It’s essentially a chrome strip running front to back, dividing the bonnet in two. The whole car

rides on 19in wheels as standard, with forged 21in rims now available as an option. The hand-crafted cabin of a Rolls-Royce is always going to be a sumptuous experience, and that was true of the Ghost in 2009. However, in response to customer feedback, the front seats have been redesigned so they now come with electronically adjustable thigh support. For those travelling in the rear, reclining seat backs and triple-level heating is standard, with a massage function on the options list. And here’s a thoughtful touch; in ‘lounge’ configuration, the rear seats are gently angled towards each other to create a more intimate setting. For music lovers there’s Bespoke Audio, an 18-speaker system to deliver what Rolls calls a ‘larger than live’ experience. Two clever technologies to benefit the driver are new to Ghost, which are standard on all models and worth mentioning. The first is satellite-aided transmission, a system that debuted on the Wraith coupé last year. It uses GPS mapping data to view the road ahead – beyond what the driver can see – and select the most appropriate gear from the eight on offer. Mated to the unchanged 6.6-litre twinturbo V12 engine and coupled with subtle changes to the suspension, the result is an impressive driving experience. The other impressive upgrade is to the headlights. The auto-dipping system has been ditched, replaced by what Rolls calls ‘glare-free’ technology. Put simply, the lamps stay permanently on main beam and when another car approaches, the light is cleverly deflected to ensure the oncoming driver isn’t dazzled. Well, by the lights at least.

The mayfair Magazine | Motoring

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The nose has been subtly tweaked to make the Ghost seem visually widerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

The mayfair Magazine | Travel

Long haul

EDITION, Miami Beach

Travel news

Ian Schrager certainly seems to be having a bit of a moment. After making waves on the capital’s hotel scene with the opening of the uber-trendy London EDITION, he has now set his sights slightly further afield. In typical Schrager fashion, the Miami Beach EDITION takes a 1950s landmark building and infuses it with minimalist white furnishings, sleek wooden panelling and ultra-modern entertainment features, including its very own nightclub and ice rink. Guests can visit from 1 December, just in time to soak up the carnival atmosphere with the rest of the city’s art enthusiasts at Art Basel. (edition-hotels.marriott.com)

Mayfair’s Angela Hartnett takes her Michelin-starred cuisine to the Swiss Alps, while Ian Schrager debuts a new EDITION hotel

Short haul

w o r d s : ai m e e m c la u g h li n

In 1864 Johannes Badrutt famously invited four Britons to be the first ever winter guests in St Moritz. For the next 150 years, discerning skiers have flocked to its serene slopes and lakes for their snowy pursuits. In keeping with its British heritage, this season’s Gourmet Food festival, running from 27 to 29 January, will feature nine of Britain’s leading chefs. The Carlton Hotel is offering a three-night package, which includes an evening of culinary delights from Michelin-starred chef and Mayfair golden girl Angela Hartnett, access to a welcome cocktail party at the Kempinski Grand Hotel and a kitchen party at Badrutt’s Palace. (carlton-stmoritz.ch)

TRAVEL TIPS Don’t leave home without… Keep this travel-sized Maison Francis Kurkdjian perfume case and Amyris Homme scent in your carry on for added airport glamour. Globe Trotter case, £95 and Amyris Homme refills, £60 (franciskurkdjian.com) There’s an app for that… Tipulator This dining-out app allows you to look up the correct amount to tip wherever you are in the world. Free, iTunes App Store

Carlton Hotel, St Moritz

‘When I travel, I just take what I need and run. I always have my briefcase stuffed with work, even when I go on a holiday.’ – Ian Schrager 81

A star is born Cruise holidays are having a revival; luxury vessels with increasingly high standards are out to refute stereotypes and the jet-set are poised to step aboard. Laura Binder sets sail with Celebrity Cruises

ashion, like travel, goes in cycles, and if 1960s style is making a comeback for 2015 (just ask Vogue), then the cruise is resurfacing from its 1970s hey-day to become the luxury choice for discerning jet-setters. Of course, some of you may need convincing, as up until now there’s been a certain stigma attached to the classic cruise liner; OAP guests, cheesy entertainment and a mad dash around local sights before you’re herded back on the ship and it’s anchors away. But – as I’m about to discover – that ‘cabaret’ image is so 1971. The cruise has had a 21st-century makeover and heading the revival is Celebrity Cruises, a fleet of 11 super-vessels that sailed in from the US in the new millennium with the kind of modern attitude and luxury assets to put preconceptions firmly back in their box. The cruise, it seems, is back, and there’s not a glitterball in sight. I board Celebrity Reflection in Rome to embark on an 11-day Mediterranean voyage that will take in Santorini, Istanbul, Ephesus, Mykonos, Athens and Naples, then back to Rome. As the newest member of the Celebrity fleet, Reflection weighs in at more than 122,000 tonnes, with an on-board occupancy of 2,886 guests (not to mention 2,000-plus staff). Whether you’re a virgin cruiser like me or seasoned sailor, she’s a spectacular vision in white. It’s at this late stage that it dawns on me; I’m boarding a ship on which I’ll be sea-bound for almost two weeks.

While for some it’s a welcome concept, for others who fancy themselves as independent adventurers the prospect is a little claustrophobic. Happily, with a vessel this vast, my fears of being confined evaporate as I stroll through arrivals (beaming, handsome staff checking in passengers like a well-oiled machine) and along labyrinthine lobbies. Space is generous on Reflection; stay in Aqua Class – as I did – and you’ll be privy to a pristine, honey-hued room with floor-to-ceiling windows and, beyond it, a sea-facing balcony with loungers to soak up the sights. Aqua Class guests gain complimentary access to the healthy Blu Restaurant and the standout spa’s Persian Garden – an oasis of calm. It’s an option that will keep the calorie-counting and healthconscious happy, burying the idea of all-you-caneat cruises in the process. While our stateroom is chic and contemporary, those who feel the need to relax and languish in a larger space should make the most of Suite Class. The Reflection Suite, which is a one-of-akind in the Celebrity fleet, boasts in its panoramic corner spot balcony-set baths, a walk-in wardrobe and a shower that’s cantilevered over the ship’s side (a rather excellent perk, and surely a cruising essential). And that’s in addition to other benefits that the various categories of suites enjoy, including butler service, a personal shopper and, launching in April 2015, an exclusive dining room for Suite Class guests, complimentary speciality dining options and access to a VIP lounge. By the time I’ve checked in, my concerns about cabarets, walking sticks and buffets are diminishing fast and it only takes a (lengthy) turn about the 14 decks to be convinced that the 1970s cruise is dead; real-grass bristle in the open air, two swimming pools and four hot 

The mayfair Magazine | Travel

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Try anything from volcano hiking and swimming in hot springs in Santoriniâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

tubs simmer in the sun and several speciality restaurants beckon – as does the Martini Bar, Canyon Ranch Spa, theatre, art gallery… the list goes on. At every turn I can feel my British cynicism ebbing away. What you’re left with is exactly what Celebrity Cruises pitch: ‘A contemporary cruise experience laced with luxury’. Indeed, the ship is a floating hotel of five-star proportions, one which allows you to wake up in a new destination each day, minus the hassle of airport check-in, passport control, packing and unpacking and – horror – delays. Whether you’re with your partner, family or friends, spend ‘sea days’ as we do; soaking up rays poolside and drinking in panoramic sea-views you’d pay top dollar for on dry land. Take a chilled drink to the hot tubs or, if you’ve had enough of the high seas (though, to my surprise, for me the novelty never wanes) hang out at The Lawn Club in its alcoves, cabana-style retreats which wouldn’t look out of place at your favourite beach club. A real highlight, though, is Reflection’s first-rate spa, Canyon Ranch. The uber-health conscious spa and wellness brand is usually found on dry land in some of the States’ swankiest health resorts – it is the only spot to receive Condé Nast Traveller’s Best Destination Spa Award 11 times – and the brand has partnered with the entire Celebrity fleet. One look at the extensive spa menu is enough to have me wishing for a rainy day at sea – the perfect excuse to be pampered inside for the duration. Although there’s everything from organic body wraps and detoxifying body treatments to acupuncture and oxygen-boosting facials, it’s the Environ vitamin-infused facials – devised by renowned plastic surgeon Dr Des Fernandes – that will have your friends at home

wondering suspiciously if you really were on a cruise (ask for the flawless, ivory-skinned Marilize – she’s a facial pro). In fact, you don’t have to lift a manicured mitt to look good on board; the salon has hair, manicures, pedicures, waxing and lash extensions covered. There are ample opportunities to spoil yourself here and not just in the spa; foodies will find five complimentary dining spots on board but it’s the ship’s seven speciality restaurants that see a new dawn of cruiser changing into their finer threads and sashaying through the immaculate, musicfilled lobbies. There are enough options to give you choice anxiety (French cuisine at Murano, international at Blu, or sizzling meats at The Lawn Club Grill?) but it’s the originality that will surprise you most; the upside-down, jet-black lampshades that illuminate Qsine are the first

‘The Lawn Club wouldn’t look out of place at your favourite beach club’ sign that it’s no ordinary ‘cruise’ restaurant, followed by an offbeat waitress with a flash of platinum hair and iPad menus. Playfully inventive dishes come thick and fast, from sushi lollipops to popcorn-style fish and chips and decorate-your-own cupcakes. I’m yet to find a restaurant like it in London. ‘The food has the edge on any cruise I’ve been on before,’ affirms Michael later that evening, a 40-something medical professional who cottoned on to Celebrity’s charms early; this is his 12th voyage. ‘It’s the youngest cruise crowd you’re going to find on the circuit too – and nowhere has anything like this,’ he tells

The mayfair Magazine | Travel

me, motioning to the DJ who looks like she’s been lifted from one of Chelsea’s trendiest nightspots. Indeed, sipping espresso Martinis at the ice-topped bar (caviar snacks and rare vodka optional), our ‘night out’ on board has only just begun. We drink one-off tipples next at Molecular Bar, dreamt up by Junior Merino (dubbed ‘the Liquid Chef’), before sitting out beneath the star-lit sky savouring the awardwinning Eureka at The Sunset Bar. Of course, that’s not all: if you’re a Top Tier Suite guest, you’ll be given access to the private Michael’s Club, reminiscent of a Mayfair cigar lounge with its rich conker hues, leather seats and brass bar, and serving up an impressive 64 international craft beers. If wine is more your thing, Reflection has that covered too; it boasts more than 500 wines on board and among these some of the world’s rarest labels. Wine Master Classes are on offer too if you need yet another way to pass your time. Connoisseurs of art can get their fill just as easily thanks to the fact that each deck’s walls double up as an art gallery so you may prefer to put your wine glass down and spend time perusing the likes of Peter Max, Marcus Glenn and Romero Britto before having your prized piece shipped home. My concerns that I ‘won’t have enough to do’ on board an 11-day journey at sea, then, are unfounded. After a week I am yet to explore the theatre, casino, the library or the temptingsounding Hideaway where giant bird-cage style seats are suspended from the ceiling. With so much happening on-board Reflection, it’s easy to forget that we’re gaining some serious sea miles in the process, but disembarking doesn’t mean being left to fend for ourselves for a few clueless hours. The ship moors for a whole day in each new sun-kissed destination – and in Istanbul’s case for the entire day and night – which means we can explore at our leisure and even have a night out before heading back on board to relax and sleep before our next port of call. Cherry-pick a new pursuit for every port from an eclectic list of ‘shore excursions’ and the ship’s event coordinator will do all the hard work

for you. Try anything from volcano hiking and swimming in hot springs in Santorini and fishing by the Bosphorus in Istanbul to visiting vineyards in Ephesus, hitting the beach in Mykonos and shopping in Athens – all before hopping aboard a private luxury boat and asking its captain to take you from Capri to Sorrento. On this luxury floating hotel, then, with everything you could desire at your beck and call, the only 1970s stereotypes left are a touch of old-school glamour and good traditional values; I particularly enjoy ‘formal night’ where some ladies go all-out in floor-skimming gowns like a scene from a James Bond film and staff fall over themselves to please and call you by your first name. To my well-travelled mind, that’s no bad thing. My parting advice, from one virgin cruiser to another, is to believe this year’s travel hype; it’s a new dawn and a new day at sea.

THE ESSENTIALS Celebrity Cruises’ Eastern Mediterranean Cruise onboard Celebrity Reflection, 11 nights From £2,069 per person (Aqua Class room), £3,769 per person (Sky Suite) and £6,319 per person (Royal Suite) including flights from London Heathrow to Rome Fiumicino airport and transfers to Rome Civitavecchia port.* Celebrity Reflection sails April to October 2015; rates vary according to season, so see website for details. Book a Mediterranean cruise by 10 November 2014 to receive a complimentary classic drinks package and free gratuities on Ocean View rooms and above. To book: call 0844 493 2031 or visit celebritycruises.co.uk *Prices based on 27 April 2015 sailing including flights and transfers. Prices correct at time of going to press.

Carrier Carrier specialises specialises in luxuryintailor-made luxury tailor-made holidaysholidays worldwide. worldwide. Service is Service personal, is personal, flexible and flexible haute and couture. haute couture. Our portfolio Our portfolio includesincludes the latestthe stylish latesthotels stylish inhotels the most in the sought-after most sought-after destinations. destinations.

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all images courtesy of Amanresorts

hen Truman Capote said ‘Venice Where to stay is like eating an entire box of One of the Venice Grand chocolate liqueurs in one go,’ he Canal’s latest additions is couldn’t have described this its very own Aman Resort, majestic, decadent place more perfectly. It’s a which is situated in a city where roads are made of jade green-tinged beautifully restored old water, national monuments are also hotels, regal home that echoes its and every year it becomes a world stage for art original Neo-Renaissance with the Venice Biennale. Romantic it is too, and Rococo style. as Mr and Mrs George Clooney just reminded Staying here is like travelling us: with Hollywood’s A-list in tow, they jetted back in time. Its lush private down the Grand Canal in black tie, waving garden is not to be missed, to the snap-happy paparazzi on the banks. and offers a true escape from Its narrow, winding streets with no particular the bustle outside. grid or pattern give Venice an intriguing (amanresorts.com) sense of mystery that’s hard to ignore – just one turn can lead you to an unexpected Eating & drinking or pleasant surprise. Even to frequent Harry’s Bar, one of Venice’s visitors, the city, which projects a spectacular most famous restaurants, illusion of floating on water, is a sight started by restaurateur you’d never tire of. Giuseppe Cipriani, is by no A tour of the most famous attractions, means the largest and most despite the crowds, is obligatory, and these grand restaurant in the area, are plentiful. Rialto bridge (the oldest but its peach Bellinis and bridge in the city) offers postcard-perfect classic Italian fare are views of the Grand Canal, while Piazza San unforgettable. There’s nothing Marco is lined with vendors selling glass quite like sipping on this from Murano – a neighbouring island that aperitif before a perfectly is renowned for its fine glassware. You will cooked piece of sea bass or also find theatrical Venetian masks that al dente rigatoni. have been a part of the city’s culture since (harrysbarvenezia.com) the beginning of the Carnival of Venice which dates back to the 12th century. Mayfair recommends But even the most tourist-laden parts One of the city’s gems is of Venice keep a certain charm. While the Rubelli, famed for its fabrics, monuments are grand, you are reminded and beautiful silks. The familythat small can be very beautiful indeed, owned company has been run by sailing through the streets on your own the Rubellis for five generations, gondola, or spending a peaceful moment and a visit to its home here in inside the Basilica di Santa Maria della Venice is akin to stepping inside Salute. Or, for grandeur and a a colour-filled wonderland for spectacular view overlooking all of design aficionados – although Venice, take a short boat ride over to the you certainly don’t need to be Hilton, where you can sip on Italian one to appreciate the elegance Spritz and while away an afternoon and quality of the fabrics. under the Venetian sun. (rubelli.com)

[city break]

venice Discover Venice in all its historic splendour as Aman Resorts makes its debut in this magical and decadent Italian city w o rd s : k a t e ra c o v o l i s

The mayfair Magazine | Travel

SUITCASE E S S E N T I A L S

#1 Ring with white diamonds (pink gold), £8,160, Repossi, (doverstreetmarket.com)

#2 Coat, £2,778, Balmain (matchesfashion.com)

#3 Trousers, £195, Joseph (joseph-fashion.com)

#4 Bag, £1,475, Jérôme Dreyfuss (jerome-dreyfuss.com)

Heels, £395, Nicholas Kirkwood (nicholaskirkwood.com)

Suite

dreams

… at Hotel Café Royal, Regent Street W o r d s : K AT E R A C O V O L I S

hen I first saw London nearly ten years ago, Piccadilly Circus was to me what it is to most visitors: the brightly lit, buzzing centre of this metropolis, filled with theatre-goers and loud revellers. Since moving to the city four years ago, my view remained unchanged, until a recent stay at Hotel Café Royal. Some 200 years ago, the officials of the County Fire Office would stand in a domeshaped room, perched high above Piccadilly Circus, guard-like, overlooking London and keeping an eye out for an outburst of smoke or fire. This same space is now one of the historic suites at the recently refurbished Hotel Café Royal – although my experience wasn’t quite as heroic. But the same sense of prestige that would have come with enjoying such a clear vantage point in central London two centuries ago is still present when staying in the aptly named Dome Suite here at the hotel today. I mention the view first, because it is quite simply breathtaking and unforgettable. To the right, Regent Street just begins to curl around towards Oxford Circus, while to the left, Piccadilly Circus’ flashing billboards blasts its digital lights over tourists and street performers,

making an almost artificial daylight after dark. From your own private terrace at the Dome Suite, the noise from below whirrs with excitement. Here on the sixth floor, all is calm. Retreating back into the suite from the terrace is remarkably quiet; its soundproof windows and doors block out every shout and murmur from the outside world. Or, if you prefer to feel as though you’re still among the vibrant nightlife six floors below, this suite begs for parties – it is even equipped with its own disco-lighting scheme, where a rainbow of lights brighten the spherical ceiling, while the Bang & Olufsen sound system plays your favourite tunes. That’s the wonderful thing about this room, as you can choose whether to use your stay as an escape, or total immersion in the vibrant city and nightlife that surrounds you. It’s an added novelty that you’re sleeping in what is essentially one enormous dome-shaped room, but its living room, bathroom and bedroom are separated nicely, so you can still enjoy a little privacy if you’re travelling with someone else. Whichever facet of this hotel you decide to make the most of, however, what you will notice is that everything about it is completely indulgent. Perhaps it is the David Chipperfield

The mayfair Magazine | Travel

‘Retreating back into the suite from the terrace, it is remarkably quiet’ interiors, which are respectful of the building’s history, or, in the Dome Suite, the Ming-green marble bathroom and the beautiful selection of Floris products that await you. If you stay in this suite, you will be greeted by your own 24-hour butler, which sets the tone for your stay as one where nothing is too much trouble. Even if you were to only pack your toothbrush, you’d be well catered for, particularly with the shops and nightlife of Soho and Mayfair on your doorstep, which nicely positions the hotel as one that embraces and balances both sides of W1. Although Hotel Café Royal is new, it is reminiscent of a historic, more glamorous era, and of the hotel’s former guise as a haunt for luminaries from around the world, this aura is ever present. A visit to The Grill Room is essential (formerly a favourite of Oscar Wilde, Winston Churchill and Elizabeth Taylor), where you can sip on Champagne or enjoy afternoon

tea among its gold-leafed, and seemingly infinite mirrors. The Akasha Holistic Wellbeing Centre is the hotel’s dedicated (and vast) spa, which is one of the most impressive I’ve seen in London, with its minimalist, stone-clad interiors, but warm, earthy feeling that induces a real sense of peace from the moment you arrive. It is popular even among those who are not guests of the hotel, offering a private membership. It’s convenient location at this hotel alone would make me sign up. The Ten Room restaurant in the centre of the hotel, as well as the bar, patisserie and private members’ club means that there is plenty on offer, even if you are not staying overnight. I for one will be returning – as Piccadilly Circus has been transformed for me. Instead of knowing this area as I first did, in place of large crowds and street noise I’ll think of glamour and one very beautiful hotel. Historic Suites start from £5,815 per night. Hotel Café Royal, Regent Street, W1B (hotelcaferoyal.com; 020 7406 3322)

WWW.CASHMIRINO.COM 020 7495 0708

31 BURLINGTON ARCADE, WEST CENTRAL LONDON, W1J0PY

100% natural cashmere

The mayfair Magazine | Beauty

Beauty news

Chanel No. 5 is the perfume equivalent of a bouquet of white roses; a timeless symbol of elegance and beauty. It’s a scent associated with old-world glamour and the likes of Marilyn Monroe, who famously said she wore ‘five drops’ of it to bed. The new campaign directed by Baz Luhrmann features the impossibly chic Gisele Bündchen and celebrates the iconic scent, which hasn’t lost any of its charm since its creation in 1921. It’s the fragrance every woman should have on her dresser. No. 5, £68, Chanel (chanel.com)

WO R D S : b e t h a n r e e s

Couture complexion Being comfortable in your own skin is fundamental, which is why we can’t resist a truly personalised product. Inspired by traditional French pharmacy techniques, the skincare brand Codage is introducing My Codage for Christmas; a custom-made serum created by completing a diagnostic questionnaire regarding skin type, lifestyle and nutrition. My Codage brings an added haute-couture edge to our beauty regime. My Codage, from £100, Codage (codageparis.com)

Lady and the vamp What better way to raise your proverbial flute to the 20th anniversary, than with a monumental launch of a 40-shade lipstick collection named Audacious. The release from enduring beauty brand NARS has a colour to flatter every skin tone; from coral to deep aubergine. We love this ‘Bette’ hue, its vampy colour is perfect for the colder weather. A make-up bag must-have for a flawless lip. Bette lipstick, £24, NARS (narscosmetics.co.uk)

You’d better shape up Christmas is coming, and with it the inevitable mid-festive season loathing when you realise that an entire winter of carb-loading has caught up with you – and your LBD. So make an appointment with the Bodydoctor on South Audley Street. His new group sessions combine individual coaching with intimate classes (the maximum group size is just four) and are accessible enough to do several times a week. Incorporating everything from HIIT to spin and Pilates, you can burn over 600 calories in 45 minutes. Bodydoctor, South Audley Street (bodydoctor.com) image courtesy of net-a-sporteR (net-a-porter.com)

IMAGE COURTESY OF CHANEL

Coco’s scent

Moving forward Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeons Mr Bhupinder S Mann and Mr Gurdeep S Biring discuss the options for patients suffering from hip arthritis

The mayfair Magazine | Health Promotion

steoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis in the UK and the leading cause of disability and pain. It is a degenerative condition which affects the cartilage in joints, with the most commonly affected areas being the knees, hands and the hips. The hip joint is a ball-and-socket joint with the cartilage acting as a low-friction cushion, protecting the joint from the strain we put on it, every day. What causes cartilage breakdown? Ageing can lead to cartilage breakdown, which may be accelerated by other factors. These include trauma, childhood hip problems, pre-existing impingement, osteonecrosis (a disease caused by reduced blood flow to bones in the joints), obesity, excessive repetitive loading and conditions such as diabetes. Symptoms of hip osteoarthritis • Sharp or dull ache in the groin, which can spread to the buttock, lower back and the knee • Reduced joint movement • Clicking and grinding sensation • Joint swelling If symptoms are ignored, pain can become much more frequent, turning into a constant nuisance, which may start to restrict hobbies and even daily living. What should I do if I experience these symptoms? If you experience any of the symptoms associated with osteoarthritis, you should make an appointment with your GP or specialist immediately. A diagnosis is often easily made from a combination of a review of clinical history, examination and X-ray review. On occasion, if any doubt remains and the X-rays reveal mild to moderate cartilage degeneration, it may be necessary to organise a diagnostic injection to confirm that the hip is the source of the pain.

Treatment options In all cases, management begins with activity modification, which can include: resting when symptoms occur, losing weight, using a walking stick and taking painkillers. Exercise is always encouraged as it is a great way to remain active and healthy, with a regime that is adapted to suit your needs. Only when all conservative measures have been exhausted will surgical intervention be considered. Hip replacement The hip replacement patient demographic is changing. People are now living longer and, as a consequence, more and more people are wearing out their hip joints and are requiring hip-replacement surgery. However, on the other end of the spectrum, we are seeing a rise in the number of younger patients requiring joint replacement surgery. The exact cause of this rise is unknown. Is the unhealthy lifestyle created by modern living causing us to wear out our joints quicker? Total hip replacement involves surgically removing the worndown cartilage and neighbouring bone, and replacing it with artificial components. Significant biotechnological advances have now led to the formation of state-of-the-art hip replacement designs. These often involve press-fitted biological fixation into the host bone along with ceramic-on-ceramic/highly cross linked, polyethylene bearing surfaces. These high-performance designs have revolutionised the treatment of end-stage arthritis, in all age groups. Whatever your age, it is important to remember that you do not need to suffer constant pain and misery as a result of hip arthritis. Total hip replacement design has become significantly advanced and it is now one of the most successful operations performed with excellent outcomes.

For further information, or if you would like to arrange an appointment at The Wellington Hospital, please contact the hospital Enquiry Helpline on 020 7483 5004, or visit thewellingtonhospital.com

Beauty | The mayfair Magazine

Spa review Cowshed, Carnaby W o rd s : B e t h a n R e e s

ust steps away from the Oxford Street frenzy, I have found a sanctuary of calm; a place where you don’t have to wrestle with commuters and tourists to simply walk and where the noise of honking vehicles is not the imposed soundtrack. The Cowshed Carnaby spa is a much appreciated haven and my first impression sets the tone for the whole dreamlike experience. I’m greeted by rows-upon-rows of Cowshed products: everything from candles to shampoo. The distressed wood and perfectly worn furniture makes for a homely welcome and a lovely change from the usual hushed, minimal, glossy-finished spas. Upstairs, music plays while customers chat and enjoy their treatments in the three manicure/pedicure stations, and the cheery staff stand behind the coffee shop-style counter, offering me a glass of water with a slice of orange. But as I step downstairs to the treatment room, the buzz from above fades and transforms into an air of serenity. The treatment space follows the same interior design as upstairs – unpolished yet refined, on the verge of shabby-chic – and the room is filled with the divine scent of a Cowshed candle. The Skin Perfecting Facial includes a steam, which is fantastic if you’re feeling clogged up with autumnal chill; an incredible shoulder, neck and scalp massage that I could feel melting away the week’s tension; and the application of Cowshed’s Anti-Ageing Perfecting Serum, which is an all-in-one skincare treatment that works as you sleep. This spa is the ultimate urban escape that feels more like a country retreat, and an ideal refuge for a shopping intermission. Cowshed Skin Perfecting Facial, £75, Cowshed Carnaby, 31 Fouberts Place, W1F (cowshedonline.co.uk)

images courtesy of cowshed

There are approximaTely

2 million sports injuries in the uK every year - 95% of which are soft tissue injuries.

early diagnosis, treatment and physiotherapy can reduce the risk of long term damage. our orthopaedic consultants work together with experienced sports medicine physicians and physiotherapists to manage a wide range of orthopaedic problems.

Call our team today

www.thewellingtonhospital.com

020 7483 5004

escape A tranquil oasis amidst the hustle & bustle of Mayfair. A unique dining experience begins as you walk down a tree-lined pathway to reach The Greenhouse. London fades away and calm descends. Michelin-starred chef Arnaud Bignonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s acclaimed light touch with highly flavoured dishes brings a thrilling dimension to classic French cuisine. Make your reservation today at

The Greenhouse, 27a Hayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mews Mayfair, London, W1J 5NY 020 7499 3331 www.greenhouserestaurant.co.uk reservations@greenhouserestaurant.co.uk

The mayfair Magazine | Food & Drink

That’s amore Italian cuisine can be the ultimate comfort food. This month, Mayfair welcomes one rather elegant take on pizza and pasta with the arrival of Bocconcino, which is making a UK debut following its success in Moscow. Inspired by the flavours restaurateur Mikhail Gokhner tasted in northern Tuscany, you will find a traditional menu of wood-fired pizzas and pasta dishes; from gorgonzola and pear pizza to cuttlefish and squid ink linguine. Perfect for a mid-week lunch or post-work supper. 19 Berkeley Street, W1J (020 7629 2000; bocconcinorestaurant.co.uk) PHOTO: SLAVA POZDNYAKOV

Food & drink news A new Italian arrives in Mayfair, Ralph Lauren debuts his very own coffee and don’t forget your skates as Canary Wharf’s ice rink opens alongside a Q on Ice pop-up w o rd s : b e t h a n r e e s

Get your skates on Every winter, among the iconic skyscrapers of Canary Wharf, something rather special happens. Canada Square Park is transformed into an ice rink, and with it, there is also an attraction for foodies. Following the summer success of On The Roof with Q at Selfridges, Q on Ice joins the skate location with a barbeque menu and raw bar. It’s the perfect place to recuperate after a skate, or ready yourself for a memorable spin on the ice. Ice Rink Canary Wharf, Canada Square Park, E14 (08456 531 431; icerinkcanarywharf.com)

Cocktail hour

Japanese cocktail culture is vibrant, experimental, and meticulous in detail; to re-create this experience you need the right tools. Take your cues from tipple experts Alexander & James with their ultimate rose-gold and copper cocktail set, which includes a Usagi heavyweight cobbler shaker, a Julep strainer, copper measure, natural wood muddler, seamless paddle mixing glass and a teardrop bar spoon. You will be mixing cocktails like a professional in no time. Japanese Cocktail Set Christmas Gift Pack, £180, Alexander & James (alexanderandjames.com)

A cup of Ralph’s The pick-me-up power of a good cup of coffee should never be underestimated. And those who like to take this ritual in style can now indulge in Ralph Lauren’s own velvety coffee – sourced from Central and South America and Africa – in his newly opened New York cafe, Ralph’s Coffee. So if you are near the 55th Street and 5th Avenue store, head to the second floor and you’ll be in luck. Ralph’s Coffee (ralphlauren.com)

Shanghai nights Baker Street’s Bright Courtyard Club offers some of the best Chinese food in the capital, paired with the décor and service of a top members’ club

hinese food in London is not in short supply, but when you discover a gem, it’s a secret you almost want to keep to yourself. The Bright Courtyard Club is a dining experience worth sharing. A short walk north from Mayfair is the Shanghai-inspired Cantonese and dim sum restaurant, which offers some of the most authentic food in the capital. Sitting at the bottom of the ultra-modern, award-winning 55 Baker Street building, its impressive glass façade is unlike most other Chinese restaurants. This theme of surprise continues inside; close attention is paid to details such as the floor-to-ceiling wine display, its mood lighting and dark, wooden floors. It has the appearance of a members’ club – which is unsurprising given that Bright Courtyard Club in fact started as a private members’ club in Shanghai – and its food offerings certainly match the class of its interiors and high-profile clientele. The menu is split by province and is presented on an iPad: pick Shanghai-style ribs and salt and pepper squid, followed by grilled Wagyu and lobster in black bean sauce for

dinner. Or sample the exceptional lunchtime dim sum, with Chilean sea bass rolls and custard-filled buns for dessert. Even Giles Coren couldn’t find fault: ‘The food was mostly immaculate. The presentation was top-end international grand hotel but the cooking had real balls.’ The private dining suites give the Bright Courtyard Club an intimate edge, and can host parties of eight and 20 respectively; it’s the ideal location for an exclusive, food-fuelled gathering. The glass-roofed Courtyard Lounge provides a beautiful backdrop for the beginning of your evening, whether you choose to visit with a few guests, or host an event of 150-200 people for anything from formal banquets to canapé receptions. You can personalise your menu, and its extensive cocktail list is not to be missed, which takes traditional drinks and adds a Shanghai twist. If you’re in the mood for a scrumptious Chinese feast, head to the Bright Courtyard Club. You won’t leave unsatisfied. Bright Courtyard Club, 43-45 Baker Street, W1U (020 7486 6998; brightcourtyard.co.uk)

‘The private dining suites give the Bright Courtyard Club an intimate edge’ 100

The mayfair Magazine | Food & Drink

DINING OUT CUT at 45 Park Lane WORDS: BETHAN REES

here’s nothing quite as satisfying as the sight of a beautiful piece of steak on a plate in front of you. There’s something about it that feels so primal, and the suspense that builds as you pick up your knife to reveal its glorious, perfectly cooked pink colour is a feeling hard to match. A good steak is not necessarily hard to come by in London, but there are some chefs that take it to the next level; Wolfgang Puck at CUT at 45 Park Lane is one of those chefs.

‘The modern American steak eatery’s menu reads like a hand-picked list of everyone’s favourite fare’

Steps away from its sister hotel The Dorchester, 45 Park Lane’s looming Art Deco exterior and striking black staircase sets the elegant tone for the rest of the evening. Austrian chef Puck made his career in some of France’s best restaurants such as three Michelin-starred L’Oustau de Baumanière, and in 1982 he opened Spago in West Hollywood, which put his name on the gastronomic map. In September 2011 he launched his first restaurant in Europe, which mirrored his successful Beverly Hills restaurant, CUT. The modern American steak eatery’s menu reads like a hand-picked list of everyone’s favourite fare and offers some delightful vegetarian-friendly options such as burrata salad and masala wild mushrooms. But its steak and seafood choices are where the restaurant really shines. Pan-roasted Scottish lobster with black truffle emulsion, sautéed Dover sole meunière and scallop carpaccio are just some of the offerings from the sea. Move to the land, and the steak menu seems almost infinite; from USDA prime 35-day aged New York sirloin to South Devon petit cut filet mignon. And then there is the Wagyu. With its marbled, buttery taste and velvet-like texture, it is regarded by many (including myself) as the finest steak in the world. Wagyu beef faced an import ban to the UK and America until fairly recently and CUT was the first restaurant in the UK to benefit from the reinstatement following a four-year hiatus, which makes it all the more exclusive. Of course, the only downside of ordering the Wagyu is that it could make every steak successor pale in comparison. But I think I’ll take my chances. CUT at 45 Park Lane, 45 Park Lane, W1K (020 7493 4554; dorchestercollection.com)

IMAGE COURTESY OF 45 PARK LANE

101

The Reimagined Zaika Now Ready To Throw Open Its Doors.

Brought to you by Mayfair's Tamarind Collection.

ZAIKA OF KENSINGTON Kensingtonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s much loved Indian eatery is back with a new look, but the same commitment to authentic Indian flavours that they've always been renowned for. And with Mayfair's Tamarind Collection taking the reins, you are assured the same level of service and gourmet experience that have established them as pioneers of fine Indian dining.

For reservations call +44 207 795 6533 or visit tamarindcollection.com 1 Kensington High Street, London, W8 5NP

The mayfair Magazine | Regulars

Remembering

MAYFAIR f e n w i c k , NEW bond STREET

Top right: Fenwick of Bond Street, 1912 below, left to right: Fenwick of Bond Street, 1895; Fenwick of Bond Street, 1955

enwick, the iconic department store on New Bond Street is as much of a Mayfair institution today as it was when it first opened in 1891. Sitting comfortably amid the rest of New Bond Street’s historic buildings, and instantly recognisable for its stunning window displays and bold green lettering, Fenwick is the elegant elder aunt of department store shopping. The multi-million pound business, today regularly frequented by the likes of Judi Dench and Shirley Bassey, spent its humble beginnings in a converted doctor’s house in a residential area of Newcastle upon Tyne. Shop assistant John James Fenwick, or JJ as he came to be known, took the ambitious decision to acquire the site in Northumberland Street in 1882 and to specialise in women’s tailoring. As the business expanded, so did JJ’s horizons. Together with his son Fred Fenwick, in 1891 he set his sights on 63 New Bond Street, which remains a part of the London flagship store to this day. Fenwick made its initial mark on London’s luxury retail scene with the assistance of a theatre production of George du Maurier’s Trilby, starring Dorothea Baird. As she had actually been born on the site of the Newcastle store, Fenwick was commissioned to make her gown, costume and felt hat, complete with a specially dented crown. With that came a rather

momentous occasion in fashion; the birth of the trilby hat. New Bond Street’s real success, though, came with its movement towards department store shopping, a concept that was already taking Paris and London by storm with the emergence of brands such as Le Bon Marché and Harrods. This development led to even further expansion for the business, and today the Fenwick dynasty lays claim to 11 stores across the country – testament to the hard work and commitment of the family. Importantly, however, the stores have not lost their unique character and well-loved intimacy. Their courteous and often longstanding members of staff have carved out a reputation for Fenwick as a quality service purveyor with expert knowledge and a distinctly elegant edge. It is, of course, unlike Fenwick to sit still. The iconic brand continues to evolve, as under the direction of Mark Fenwick, original founder JJ’s great-grandson, the New Bond Street store has undergone a refurbishment to make way for new and expanding departments. On the third floor a contemporary fashion department is set under glittering disco balls, and a lingerie department exudes a subtle romantic ambience, with boudoirstyle fitting rooms, seamlessly merging the old with the new in typical Fenwick fashion. Words: Aimee McLaughlin

103

Ligne Roset Westend 23-25 Mortimer Street 0207 323 1248 www.ligne-roset-westend.co.uk

MIXTE storage & ODESSA dining table. Design: Mauro Lipparini. VIK carver chair. Design: Thibault Desombre. HEX HEX rug. Design: Bertjan Pot. TRĂ&#x2030;PIED floor lamps. Design: Normal Studio.

Property | The mayfair Magazine

Mayfair estate agents Paddington & Bayswater aston chase 69-71 Park Road Regent’s Park, NW1 6XU 020 7724 4724 (astonchase.com)

Beauchamp Estates 24 Curzon Street, W1J 7TF 020 7499 7722 (beauchamp.co.uk)

4C Praed Street, W2 1JX 020 7717 5473 (sales) 020 7717 5343 (lettings)

Pimlico & Westminster 50 Belgrave Road, SW1V 1RQ 020 7834 4771 (sales) (hamptons-int.com)

John taylor 48 Berkeley Square, W1J 5AX 020 3284 1888 (john-taylor.com)

Hanover residential

West End

49 Welbeck Street W1G 9XN 020 3540 5990

St John’s Wood 102 St John’s Wood Terrace NW8 6PL 020 7722 2223 (hanover-residential.co.uk) carter jonas 127 Mount Street, W1K 3NT 020 7493 0676 (carterjonas.co.uk)

KAY & CO

Hyde Park & Bayswater 24-25 Albion Street W2 2AX 020 7262 2030

Marylebone & Regents Park 20a Paddington Street W1U 5QP 020 7486 6338 (kayandco.com)

47 South Audley StreetW1K 2QA 020 7629 4513 (sales) 020 7288 8301 (lettings)

Knightsbridge 188 Brompton Road SW3 1HQ 020 7581 5234 (sales)

Mayfair 36 North Audley Street W1K 6ZJ 020 7578 5100 (sales & lettings)

139 Sloane Street SW1X 9AY 020 7730 0822 (savills.co.uk)

Knightsbridge Mayfair

Savills

Sloane Street

Harrods Estates

ChestertonS

Rokstone 5 Dorset Street W1U 6QJ 020 7580 2030 (rokstone.com)

82 Brompton Road SW3 1ER 020 7225 6506

Mayfair 61 Park Lane W1K 1QF 020 7409 9001 (harrodsestates.com)

Westminster & Pimlico

Knight Frank

Mayfair

120a Mount Street W1K 3NN 020 7499 1012 (sales & lettings) (knightfrank.co.uk)

Hyde Park

10 Gillingham Street,SW1V 1HJ 020 3411 8386 (sales) (chestertons.com)

1 Craven Terrace W2 3QD 020 7871 5060 (sales) 020 7871 5070 (lettings) Horne & Harvey 23a St James’s Street SW1A 1HA 020 7839 6006 (horneandharvey.co.uk)

Hamptons International

Marylebone 55 Baker Street W1U 8EW 020 3435 6440 (sales)

Chelsea

134 Fulham Road, SW10 9PY 020 7717 5433 (lettings)

Strutt & Parker

London Head Office 13 Hill Stree W1J 5LQ 020 7629 7282

Knightsbridge 66 Sloane Street SW1X 9SH 020 7235 9959 (struttandparker.com)

Knightsbridge 168 Brompton Road, SW3 1HW 020 7717 5463 (lettings)

Mayfair 32 Grosvenor Square, W1K 2HJ 020 7717 5465 (sales) 020 7717 5467 (lettings)

JACKSON STOPS & STAFF 17c Curzon Street W1J 5HU 020 7664 6644 (jackson-stops.co.uk)

Pastor Real Estate Ltd 48 Curzon Street W1J 7UL 020 3195 9595 (pastor-realestate.com)

For estate agent listings please contact Sophie Roberts at: s.roberts@runwildgroup.co.uk

Wetherell 102 Mount Street W1K 2TH 020 7493 6935 (wetherell.co.uk)

showcasing the

finest HOMES & PROPERTY from the best estate agents

High altitude

Living the high life in Arosa, Switzerland

Prime location PrimeResi brings us the latest in Londonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s property market image: jackson stops & staff (jackson-stops.co.uk)

KnightFrank.co.uk

North Row, Mayfair W1K

A contemporary lateral apartment with porterage A stylish three bedroom apartment spanning in excess of 2,500 sq ft, boasting lift access and 24 hour porterage. 2 bedrooms with en suite bathrooms, further bedroom with en suite shower room, 2 reception rooms, kitchen, lift access, porterage. EPC rating D. Approximately 233 sq m ﴾2,509 sq ft﴿ Leasehold: approximately 73 years remaining Guide price: £5,250,000 ﴾WER140108﴿

KnightFrank.co.uk/mayfair mayfair@knightfrank.com 020 8166 7482 John‐Taylor.co.uk london@john‐taylor.com 020 3284 1888

KnightFrank.co.uk

Whitehall Court, St James's SW1 A two bedroom lateral apartment with porterage

A contemporary two bedroom apartment situated on the sixth floor of an imposing historical building, boasting impressive views of St James's. Bedroom with en suite, second bedroom, bathroom, guest WC, open plan kitchen/reception room, 3 balconies, lift, porter. EPC rating E. Approximately 159 sq m ﴾1,714 sq ft﴿ Leasehold: approximately 104 years remaining Guide price: £4,750,000 ﴾WER140163﴿

KnightFrank.co.uk/mayfair mayfair@knightfrank.com 020 8166 7482 HorneandHarvey.co.uk sales@horneandharvey.co.uk 020 7839 6006

No. 3 Chesterfield Hill Mayfair, London W1

KF_DPS_LHP.indd 1

14/10/2014 15:19

15:19

An exceptional five bedroom new build townhouse set behind a restored, original facade.

Flawlessly designed by Vabel, the property features the finest materials, lighting and bespoke joinery. A world of contemporary refinement, sleek design and considered luxury, No.3 Chesterfield Hill is a mixture of artisan craft and polished elegance, creating the perfect modern home. Accommodation & Amenities: 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, large reception room, dining room, library, kitchen, study, 2 cloakrooms, utility room and storage space, private terrace, lift. The property features an array of luxurious detailing including: - Bespoke cabinetry - Smoked oak Parquet de Versailles flooring - French vanilla marble slab flooring - Fully fitted Italian kitchen by Modulnova - Bespoke walnut doors with lacquered finish - Quartz stone work surfaces - Underfloor heating

KF_DPS_RHP.indd 2

Terms: Freehold Approximately 378 sq m (4,068 sq ft) EPC rating E Guide price: ÂŁ13,950,000

020 7499 1012

020 3284 1888

120a Mount Street London W1K 3NN mayfair@knightfrank.com KnightFrank.co.uk

48 Berkeley Square London W1J 5AX london@john-taylor.com john-taylor.co.uk

14/10/2014 15:20

LEADING THE WAY IN MAYFAIR We are proud to have sold 75% of all super prime properties in Mayfair this year*. To keep up with the latest property news and events follow us @KF_Mayfair

120a Mount Street, Mayfair, London W1K 3NN 020 8166 7482 KnightFrank.co.uk/mayfair

3941_Mayfair super prime properties advert A4_V4.indd 1

*Data taken from “London’s property pulse”, Lonres.com on 16th June 2014

15/10/2014 09:54

KnightFrank.co.uk

Hyde Park Street, Hyde Park W2 Magnificent lateral apartment with park views

A beautifully presented corner apartment with views across Hyde Park, located in a Grade II listed white stucco building. 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, dual aspect reception room, family room/study, kitchen/breakfast room, utility room, air conditioning, surround sound, lift, porter. Approximately 280 sq m ﴾3,014 sq ft﴿ Leasehold: approximately 161 years remaining

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

Guide price: £7,000,000 ﴾HPE140197﴿

09:54

The Mayfair Mag Nov 2014 HP Sales

03/10/2014 12:34:05

KnightFrank.co.uk

Hyde Park Square, Hyde Park W2 Immaculately presented garden square apartment

A luxuriously refurbished lateral apartment located on the third floor of a Grade II listed building on one of London's finest garden squares. 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, reception room, handmade Italian kitchen, Lutron lighting, separate storage vault, lift, porter, access to communal private gardens. Approximately 151 sq m ﴾1,630 sq ft﴿ Share of Freehold

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

Guide price: £3,750,000 ﴾HPE140172﴿

The Mayfair Mag November 2014

03/10/2014 12:28:03

KnightFrank.co.uk

Grosvenor Hill, Mayfair W1K

Duplex two bedroom apartment

An outstanding apartment situated on the second and third floors, which has been furnished to the highest specification throughout. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, reception room, dining room, kitchen, terrace, guest cloakroom. EPC rating E. Approximately 163 sq m ﴾1,760 sq ft﴿ Available furnished

KnightFrank.co.uk/lettings mayfairlettings@knightfrank.com 020 8166 7799

Guide price: £2,700 per week ﴾MAQ206913﴿

All potential tenants should be advised that, as well as rent, an administration fee of £276 will apply when renting a property. Please ask us for more information about other fees that may apply or visit KnightFrank.co.uk/tenantcharges

Mayfair Mag Nov 2014 4

15/10/2014 10:09:32

KnightFrank.co.uk Baker Street, Marylebone W1 Lateral apartment

A contemporary six bedroom apartment. 6 bedrooms, family bathroom, 2 shower rooms, reception room with dining area, kitchen. Neutrally decorated throughout with beautiful parquet flooring, this great apartment also benefits from lift access and 24 hour concierge. Approximately 201.9 sq m ﴾2,173 sq ft﴿ Available furnished Guide price: £1,850 per week

Marylebone Lettings KnightFrank.co.uk/lettings lettings@knightfrank.com 020 3641 5853 ﴾MRY204727﴿

Heron Court, Hyde Park, W2 Penthouse apartment

A spectacular lateral four bedroom apartment. Master bedroom suite, 3 further bedrooms, family shower room, large reception room, fully integrated kitchen/dining room, multiple private balconies, lift. EPC rating D. Approximately 175 sq m ﴾1,884 sq ft﴿ Available furnished Guide price: £2,200 per week

Hyde Park Lettings KnightFrank.co.uk/lettings lettings@knightfrank.com 020 3641 7941 ﴾HPQ205384﴿

Mayfair Mag HP/MB Lettings Oct 2014

06/10/2014 12:02:44

The Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings

Drawing of St Dunstan-in-the-West by SPAB Scholar Ptolomy Dean

Founded by William Morris, the SPAB protects the historic environment from decay, damage and demolition. It responds to threats to old buildings, trains building professionals, craftspeople, homeowners and volunteers and gives advice about maintenance and repairs. Since 1877 countless buildings have been saved for future generations.

Information about maintaining your home is available through events, courses, lectures, publications and telephone advice. To support our work why not join the SPAB? Members receive a quarterly magazine, our list of historic properties for sale and access to our regional activities.

www.spab.org.uk 020 7377 1644 A charitable company limited by guarantee registered in England & Wales. Company no: 5743962 Charity no: 1113753 37 Spital Square, London E1 6DY

Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk

Charles Street, W1J A newly refurbished three bedroom, two bathroom (one en-suite) apartment on the third floor of this modern, portered apartment building with underground parking. This contemporary apartment has been fully renovated to exacting standards, incorporating air conditioning and numerous other modern features. EPC: C

£3,650,000 Leasehold • • • • • •

Hamptons Mayfair Office Sales. 020 7717 5465 | Lettings. 020 7717 5467

Three bedrooms Two bathrooms Newly refurbished Air conditioning Porter Underground parking

Park Lane Place, W1K This sixth floor apartment (with lift) is located in a portered building with fabulous views over Hyde Park. This double aspect property offers modern and spacious accommodation with three double bedrooms (two en-suite), a large reception room with balcony, modern kitchen and a guest WC. The apartment includes one off street parking space, and Tenants are also able to benefit from 50% off gym membership within the building. EPC: C

£2,800 per week Furnished/Part furnished • • • • • •

Hamptons Mayfair Office Lettings. 020 7717 5467 | Sales. 020 7717 5465

Three bedrooms Two bathrooms Double aspect Porter Off street parking Views of Hyde Park

Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk

Douglas House, SW1P This fourth floor sub Penthouse has direct views of some of London’s most iconic landmarks. The spacious main living area faces west and extends to an impressive 780 square feet or 73 square meters. Italian marble floors and beautiful bathrooms make this a truly sensational apartment. One secure underground parking space is included. Douglas house has just been released to the market and is available for immediate occupation. Share of Freehold will be offered once all are sold. EPC: C

Hamptons Pimlico & Westminister Office Sales. 0203 281 7214 | Lettings. 020 7717 5345

£2,300,000 999 year lease • • • • •

Exceptional specification Comfort cooling Terraces Spectacular views One secure Underground parking space

Swinton House, W2 Located a stones throw from Hyde Park is this well presented family apartment. Arranged over the ground and lower ground floor the accommodations spans 1508 sq ft and comprises a double length reception room, separate kitchen, guest cloakroom, master bedroom with an ensuite bathroom, three further bedrooms, family bathroom, storage and use of an un official patio garden. EPC: F

£1,795,000 Share of Freehold • • • • • •

Hamptons Hyde Park & Bayswater Office Sales. 020 7717 5473 | Lettings. 020 7717 5343

Duplex apartment Double length reception room Kitchen Four bedrooms Garage Patio (not demised)

savills.co.uk

1 A CHARMING DOUBLE FRONTED GRADE II LISTED PERIOD HOUSE connaught square, w2 Entrance hall ø 5 reception rooms ø kitchen/ breakfast room ø master bedroom with 2 en suite bathrooms ø 5 further bedrooms ø 3 further bathrooms ø further kitchen ø terrace ø lift ø vaults and attic ø 448 sq m (4,829 sq ft) ø EPC=F Guide £7.95 million Leasehold, approximately 94 years remaining

Savills Notting Hill

Savills Mayfair

Oliver Lurot olurot@savills.com

Charles Lloyd clloyd@savills.com

020 7727 5750

020 7578 5100

savills.co.uk

1 AN UNMODERNISED STONE FRONTED PERIOD BUILDING upper grosvenor street, w1 Handsome period building requiring complete refurbishment ø subject to the necessary consents accommodation could comprise; 4 reception rooms; family kitchen; master bedroom suite; 4 further bedrooms (2 en suite); 2 further bathrooms; media room; gym; swimming pool; further kitchen; staff bedroom; 3 terraces; lift ø 664 sq m (7,148 sq ft) ø EPC=F Offers in excess of £9 million Leasehold, property will be sold with a new FRI lease of 125 years

Savills Mayfair Charles Lloyd clloyd@savills.com

020 7578 5100

savills.co.uk

LETTINGS LAYOUT ONLY

INTERIOR DESIGNED TOWNHOUSE IN THE HEART OF MAYFAIR culross street, w1 4 bedrooms ø 3 bathrooms ø drawing room and dining room ø study ø kitchen/breakfast room ø conservatory ø utility room and wine cellar ø wet bar/second kitchen ø 319 sq m (3,440 sq ft) ø EPC=E ø Council Tax=H

Savills Mayfair Gilly Hayden ghayden@savills.com

020 7590 5073

Furnished or Unfurnished £5,250 per week + £276 inc VAT one-off admin fee and other charges may apply* *£36 inc VAT for each additional tenant/occupant/guarantor reference where required. Inventory check out fee – charged at the end of or early termination of the tenancy and the amount is dependent on the property size and whether furnished/unfurnished. For more details, visit www.savills.co.uk/fees.

T WO NEW ST YLISH DEVELOPMENTS

2 and 3 bedroom apartments and penthouses for sale

3 bedroom apartments and penthouses for sale

NOVASW1.COM/THENOVABUILDING

KINGSGATESW1.COM

JOIN US ON 5th NOVEMBER FROM 5â&#x20AC;&#x201C;8PM AT THE VICTORIA PAVILION, 12 CARDINAL WALK, ROOF GARDEN LEVEL, CARDINAL PLACE, SW1E 5JE TO DISCOVER MORE ABOUT THESE TWO PRESTIGIOUS ADDRESSES. RSVP AND REGISTER YOUR INTEREST RESIDENTIAL@LANDSECURITIES.COM RESIDENTIALBYLANDSECURITIES.COM Disclaimer: Whilst every care has been taken in preparing these particulars, Knight Frank, Savills, Strutt & Parker and the respective landlords/vendors give no warranty, express or implied, as to the completeness or accuracy of the information contained herein. These particulars are subject to errors, omissions, change of price/rental or other conditions, withdrawal without notice, and any special listing conditions imposed by our principals. Knight Frank, Savills and Strutt & Parker will not be liable for negligence, or for any direct or indirect consequential losses or damages arising from the use of this information. You should satisfy yourself about the completeness or accuracy of any information or materials. The information contained herein does not form part of an offer or contract.

Qatari Diar makes headway on Grosvenor Square embassy scheme US Embassy developer Qatari Diar has reported reaching a key ‘milestone’ in its plan to transform the iconic building on Grosvenor Square. It’s only been a few weeks since the Financial Times alleged that a £10m legal battle was ongoing between the firm and its development partner Chelsfield Partners, after the project ‘ground to a halt’. The issuance of a number of requests for proposals (RFPs) for the Grade II-listed property, however, suggests things are right back on track. We hear RFPs have been sent out ‘for the detailed technical and economic studies required for the delivery of a new London landmark’. The scheme is one of Qatari Diar’s flagship projects in London, along with the ongoing redevelopments of Chelsea Barracks and the Shell Centre.

image: Gilderien, CC by SA 3.0

PrimeResi News

PrimeResi brings us the latest news in prime central London property

Capital Value performance and rental yield in prime and outer prime London

Super-prime stumble Despite a significant cooling in some prime central markets throughout 2013 and early 2014, Carter Jonas reports that Q2 2014 saw a return to strong capital value appreciation for most areas, led by a relatively strong upturn in demand from domestic buyers. The one exception to H1’s growth is the super-prime £10m+ market, where quarterly capital values have been falling since spring 2013. Carter Jonas’ data shows average falls of 11 per cent in this market from June 2013 to June 2014. In the wider prime market, Wandsworth and Fulham have now exceeded the more established PCL markets of Holland Park and W2, while value growth levels in Knightsbridge have, as a result of a prolonged period of stagnation, been matched by the Mayfair and Marylebone markets, with all three markets recording a ten-year capital value growth of 160-180 per cent. The agency is forecasting that capital value growth will ‘slow significantly’ across all PCL markets for the rest of this year.

Image courtesy of Carter JOnas

126

5000 Number of items to be delivered

‘The number of high-end properties scheduled for construction in the capital over the next ten years is up from 20,000 to 25,000’

4500 4000 3500

The deliverability ceiling

3000 2500 2000 1500 1000 500 2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

Year Election year (increase in sales three months post-elections over three months preelection)

1997

May Election

2001

June Election

Average in non election years (increase in sales over the same period)

2005

May Election

2010

May Election

Image: courtesy of Winkworth; Source: Land Registry (City of Westminster and Kensington & Chelsea)

Election matters Winkworth has been looking into how the upcoming general election could impact on sales levels in prime central London next year. The agency has tracked recent periods of political instability against transaction volumes to answer the big question: how will buyer behaviour change as we move closer to – and past – polling day? A significant slowdown is anticipated in the lead-up, but the aftermath should prove interesting. Transactions within the three months after polling day were between 10.5 per cent and 20.7 per cent higher than in the three months leading up to the election. Compared with the same period in years when a general election didn’t take place, a stronger growth in transactions is clear to see. In fact, transaction levels in the three months after the past few general elections have been between four per cent and 12.2 per cent higher than the increases seen in non-election years.

Building society The delivery challenge facing developers and investors in prime central London has never been greater, according to a new report by consultancy EC Harris, which predicts that some projects in the capital’s £60 billion prime property pipeline may in fact be ‘undeliverable’. The number of high-end properties scheduled for construction in the capital over the next ten years is up from 20,000 to 25,000, says the firm, but developers are increasingly struggling to find the right resources. This is likely to worsen over the next three to four years as rising construction costs combine with a shortage of qualified workers to create some kind of perfect storm. EC Harris predicts that developers will essentially have to pay more, build stronger relationships and rethink the way in which risk is managed and transferred. At present, half of the 2014 pipeline by unit count is located in either the South Bank or the wider Chelsea and Fulham area, after a ‘turbo charging’ in development activity that’s ‘re-balancing the historic large differential’ between sales values north and south of the Thames. Meanwhile, the traditional prime enclaves of Mayfair, Belgravia, Knightsbridge and Kensington represent 11 per cent of total unit numbers but 32 per cent of total GDV of the pipeline.

4,000-5,000

units per annum at peak (theoretical)

Circa 20

Tier 1 contractors

Circa 10-15

Tier 2 fit-out completion teams (per trade)

2,500-3,000

maximum achievable units per annum

primeresi.com 127

left: Image by EC Harris; below: Development delivery funnel - Image by EC Harris

The mayfair Magazine | Property

Park House Apartments, Mayfair, W1K Apartment 6.01 is a duplex penthouse apartment on the sixth and seventh floors overlooking Oxford Street. The accommodation of approx. 2,115ft2 comprises an open plan kitchen/dining/reception room, master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, second double bedroom with dressing area and en-suite shower room, third double bedroom, shower room and guest cloakroom. Available, furnished.

Price Per Week: £3,350 Property Fees: £180 Admin & £189 Checkout. References: £42 per person

+44(0)20 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 CHELSEA OFFICE: 58 FULHAM ROAD LONDON SW3 6HH T: +44 (0) 20 7225 6700 HARRODSESTATES.COM

Princess Court, Marylebone, W1 This newly refurbished two bedroom apartment is set on the second floor of Princess Court. The accommodation comprises a living room, additional reception room, two double bedrooms with built-in storage, bathroom and a modern fitted kitchen. The building benefits from a lift and a porter whilst being within walking distance to Marble Arch. Available, furnished.

Price Per Week: £750 Property Fees: £180 Admin & £189 Checkout. References: £42 per person

+44 (0) 20 7409 9158 robin.boghhenrikssen@harrodsestates.com

Hay Hill, Mayfair W1 This ideal Mayfair pied-a-terre is located in Berkeley Square and situated moments from Green Park. The bright and spacious one bedroom apartment comprises a large reception room, fully fitted kitchen, double bedroom and separate bathroom and offers high ceilings and lovely wooden floors throughout, with the additional benefits of a porter and lift. EPC rating E

Leasehold: approximately 151 years remaining Asking Price ÂŁ1,650,000 +44 (0) 20 7409 9047 robert.cox@harrodsestates.com

The Lancasters, Hyde Park W2 A beautiful two bedroom apartment in this soughtafter luxury development. Accommodation comprises an elegant reception room with double-height ceilings, separate kitchen, dining area, master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, second bedroom and bathroom. The apartment benefits from one secure parking space, swimming pool, spa facilities, concierge and 24 hr security.

Leasehold: approximately 996 years remaining Asking Price ÂŁ3,300,000 +44 (0) 20 7409 9205 michael.davis@harrodsestates.com

jackson-stops.co.uk

Dover House, SE1 Dover House is a heritage development of just nine luxury apartments located moments from Waterloo Station and Westminster Bridge. With interiors by world renowned specialists, Argent Design, this scheme offers a selection of 2 and 3 bedroom apartments, available to reserve off-plan with estimated completion in Q2 2015. (Images are computer generated). EPC Rating TBC

Prices From: ÂŁ895,000 Leasehold

MM58477

People Property Places Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional offices

Mayfair

020 7664 6644 mayfair@jackson-stops.co.uk

Hertford Street, W1 A one bedroom flat situated on the fifth floor of this Art Deco, 24 hour portered block in Mayfairâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s boutique Shepherd Market area. The property comprises double bedroom, kitchen, 18ft sitting room and bathroom; the property benefits further from a lift and is within walking distance of Green Park underground station (0.3 miles). EPC Rating D

Asking Price: ÂŁ1,600,000 Leasehold

MM58462

People Property Places Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional offices

Mayfair

020 7664 6644 mayfair@jackson-stops.co.uk

jackson-stops.co.uk

North Row, W1K A sixth floor (with lift) apartment in a 24 hr portered building forming part of a luxury hotel. Comprising reception room with views over Hyde Park, separate fully fitted kitchen, master bedroom with bathroom, second bedroom with further bedroom and guest WC. EPC Rating C

ÂŁ2,800 per week fees apply

MM51227

Buckingham Street, WC2N A brand new interior designed one bedroom apartment in a converted Georgian property located between the Strand and Victoria Embankment Gardens. Comprising entrance hall, kitchen/reception/dining room, master bedroom and shower room. EPC Rating D

ÂŁ750 per week fees apply

MM58565

People Property Places Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional offices

Mayfair

020 7664 6644 mayfair@jackson-stops.co.uk

Jackson-Stops & Staff Celebrating 90 years in central London and still in our prime.

In that time, our commitment to bespoke customer service has never changed. 1970s

1924 London office opened in 1924 in SW1. Shortly followed by an office in Mayfair.

In 1952 London buses were carrying 8 million people a day.

1952

The 1970’s and 1980’s see the development of London residential property specialist offices for Jackson-Stops & Staff.

2003 Building of 30 St Mary Axe (Gherkin), a skyscraper in London’s main financial district, completes in December 2003 and opens in April 2004.

Wider coverage in central London with offices in Chelsea, Holland Park and Pimlico.

1997

Here to help you now and in the years ahead.

2014

And our innovative approach to new technologies keeps us moving forward.

Jackson-Stops & Staff London —Sales —Lettings —International —Residential Development —Land & New Homes —Surveying & Consultancy —Country Houses —Professional Services —Chelsea —Holland Park —Mayfair —Pimlico, Westminster & St James —Richmond —Teddington —Weybridge —Wimbledon

jackson-stops.co.uk/london

@jsslondon

JSSLondon

A tale of two cities Are Monaco and prime central London that different from each other? A new report from Pastor Real Estate reveals an increasing number of similarities between the two cities that continue to attract ultra-high net worth individuals

‘A

city village is given its character by the people who live there and what they need,’ says Susan Cohen, from Pastor Real Estate, referring not only to prime central London and Mayfair, the area in which the company’s London team is based, but also to Monaco. This comparison may appear an unlikely one – in terms of their vastly different skylines and geographic makeup at least, with one just a stone’s throw from the French Riviera, and the other being part of one of the largest financial capitals of Europe. But as a new report from Pastor Real Estate reveals, Monaco and prime

136

central London share more similarities than ever before. ‘It’s the quality that you’re going to get; of life, and of property. People feel secure in these areas,’ says Susan. ‘They are ideal for travelling and are both viewed as safe havens for investment, which I think is very attractive.’ Both of these ‘city villages’ are also known for offering a similar lifestyle, with their concentrations of luxury offerings, such as shopping, hotels and restaurants. The founding company, J.B. Pastor & Fils, began more than three generations ago, in the beginning of the 1900s in construction, in the principality of Monaco and was established by

The mayfair Magazine | Property

Jean-Baptiste Pastor. The Pastor group now has a diverse portfolio of business interests including construction, estate agency, property, rental

‘Monaco and prime central London share more similarities than ever before’ management and specialist insurance services. And having offices in both Monaco and London, Pastor Real Estate is uniquely positioned to compare these two ultra-prime cities. The study, which was produced by Dataloft and Lonres, combined with Pastor Real Estate’s own records, found a significant interchangeability between the two cities, with a large proportion of ultra-high net worth individuals who rent ultra-prime property in London, also having an address in Monaco. Even property prices are markedly similar: in Fontvieille, which is the most expensive address in Monaco, the average apartment price is £3.43 million, whereas in Knightsbridge in London, the equivalent is £3.37 million. ‘Fontvieille has become a very highly sought-after area and that’s why prices have risen – it has taken on a whole identity of its own,’ says Susan. Both places, steeped in their own rich histories, are also confined to a limited amount of space, as well as development restrictions.

‘New developments are not very often built in Monaco, but there is the demand from all over the world to live there.’ A similar story is true of prime central London, as demand is also consistently high, although there are more options available in terms of lettings and sales in London, by virtue of being such a busy capital for commerce. The report also notes that each location has seven ultra-prime areas. Monte Carlo has been compared with Mayfair, as both are destinations for fabulous shops and five-star hotels. Fontvieille has been likened to South Kensington, which has the highest percent of households with a second address in prime central London, at 33 per cent. Over the coming decade in Monaco, new high-rise luxury apartments are being built to help ease the level of demand for property, and the same trend has been recognised in prime central London. ‘Purchasing or renting property is about a lifestyle and making people’s lives easy,’ says Susan. It’s this lifestyle that has proven most attractive to ultra-high net worth individuals, particularly those from abroad, to live in a property that comes with all of the amenities and services that you would expect of a five-star hotel. For further enquiries contact Pastor Real Estate, 48 Curzon Street, W1J (020 3195 9595; pastor-realestate.com)

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Penthouse, Cadogan Place, SW1

Within an impressive white stucco terrace, 59-60 Cadogan Place is an immaculate building with a newly restored façade and communal entrance hall.

£14,750,000 Share of Freehold

Knightsbridge 020 7235 9959

James.gilbert-green@struttandparker.com

Lyall Mews, Belgravia SW1

This discreet and impressive four bedroom, low built freehold house benefits from a home cinema room, gym, extensive wine cellar, large roof terrace, courtyard garden, an integral garage, offstreet parking and access to Belgrave Square gardens.

Knightsbridge 020 7235 9959 Charlie.willis@struttandparker.com

ÂŁ10,750,000 Freehold

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One Hyde Park, Knightsbridge SW1

An exceptional one bedroom apartment which due to its style and size is the finest of its kind in the building.

Knightsbridge 020 7235 9959 Casper.Tham@struttandparker.com

ÂŁ9,900,000 Freehold

Sloane Street, Knightsbridge, SW1

A three bedroom flat in this well run portered building with views over the Cadogan Place gardens and a lock up garage to the rear on Pavilion Road.

Knightsbridge 020 7235 9959 Casper.Tham@struttandparker.com

ÂŁ4,950,000 Freehold

GROSVENOR SQUARE MAYFAIR An elegant and impeccably designed lateral apartment with five south facing windows overlooking Grosvenor Square.

109 YEAR LEASE ÂŁ18,000,000

102 Mount Street, London W1K 2TH T: 020 7529 5566

wetherell.co.uk

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All this, in London. 48 Totteridge is a meticulously designed new mansion set in three acres of landscaped grounds in North West London. From the main gate, the drive sweeps through an avenue of mature trees. An impressive double height entrance with imposing staircase welcomes you. Lovingly designed to create a home of classic proportions with stunning features and craftsmanship, 48 Totteridge Common is a simply remarkable family home with great entertainment and leisure facilities including a swimming pool, cinema, games room and wine cellar. Have it all, including London. Price ÂŁ16 million

Viewing by appointment only Statons Estate Agents: Nick Staton, 07970 700 600 Laurence Henry, 020 8445 3694 Knight Frank: James Crawford, 020 7861 1065 Grant Alexson, 020 7317 7950

www.octagon.co.uk

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South Audley Street Mayfair W1K

Steeped in history and based at the southern end of South Audley Street, is a grand freehold, stone fronted townhouse which has been meticulously refurbished to exacting standards whilst incorporating the latest technology with classic period features. South Audley Street is considered one of London’s prime streets in the heart of elegant Mayfair and moments from Hyde Park. Mayfair now houses London’s most exclusive shops, hotels and restaurants making it one of London most elegant districts. This alluring freehold townhouse has been meticulously refurbished in a style which highlights all its period features, as well as incorporating the latest in modern technology and interior design. Benefiting from a lift, elegant bedrooms and two reception rooms. Early viewing is highly recommended.

Freehold House Eight Bedrooms Two Reception Rooms High Ceilings Fully Air Conditioned Lift Roof Terrace In excess of 6,200 sq ft Heart of Mayfair Cinema Room

Freehold £20,000,000 Sole Agent

5 Dorset Street, London W1U 6QJ

020 7580 2030 www.rokstone.com

AWARD WINNER

Luxury without compromise. Arriving soon, a collection of seven luxury residences overlooking Hyde Park, London. To register your interest please call +44 (0)20 3302 4939 or visit connaughtplaceresidences.com

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Culross Street, Mayfair, W1K A beautiful contemporary Townhouse situated in a gated section of Culross Street, in the heart of Mayfair. This family home was rebuilt behind its original façade to provide a completely up to date interior, comprising 4 bedrooms (2 en suite bathrooms), family bathroom, 4 reception rooms, lift, balcony, cinema room and gym. Further benefits include heating and cooling with individual temperature controls and underfloor heating. A fabulous roof terrace and a conservatory also with the heated floor and balcony, provide great out door areas for entertaining. EPC Rating F. John Taylor UK 48 Berkeley Square, London W1J 5AX Tel: 020 3284 1888 Email: london@john-taylor.com

£10,900,000 Freehold ABU DHABI MEGEVE •

• AIX-EN-PROVENCE • BARCELONA • CANNES • COURCHEVEL • COSTA BRAVA • GENEVA • GSTAAD • LONDON MERIBEL • MILAN • MONACO • PARIS • ST-JEAN-CAP-FERRAT • ST-PAUL-DE-VENCE • ST-TROPEZ • VALBONNE

www.john-taylor.com

Property | The mayfair Magazine

Market focus: St James’s As the renaissance of St James’s continues, with new developments being built following The Crown Estate’s half a billion pound investment in the area, James Gilbert-Green, partner at Strutt & Parker in Knightsbridge, discusses why St James’s is more sought after than ever

above: roof terrace and interiors at The Palace View Penthouse

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he changes taking place in St James’s at the moment are astonishing. Worldrenowned for its character, heritage, history, members’ clubs and landmark institutions such as The Ritz and Fortnum & Mason – The Crown Estate is now investing half a billion pounds into the area’s regeneration. If you consider the amount that private residential developers are also investing, the total figure could be double that, which is staggering. The profile of tenants in the area has long been excellent – including high-calibre restaurants, luxury boutiques and art galleries – but they continue to get better and better. International retail brands that have recently opened up include Tiger of Sweden, Barbour International, Osprey, Grosvenor Shirts and Duchamp. Now the smart black hoarding is up at St James’s Market, which is being redeveloped to create a new public realm of more than half an acre of business, shopping and dining space. Traditionally a commercial district, St James’s is evolving to become a more residential area. Its appeal is clear. The area’s historic and Royal

connections are unparalleled – St James’s has been home to 17 generations of the Royal Family. The proximity to The Mall, St James’s Palace and St James’s Park provide the ultimate old-school British backdrop. Prospective purchasers tend to hail from Britain, Western Europe, Scandinavia and the US. A lot of hedge funds and private banks are based on and around St James’s Street, so it’s the perfect place for a pied-à-terre or London bolthole. If you are coming to London for a few nights every month on business and working in this district, why not live here? Once overshadowed by Mayfair and Piccadilly, St James’s now seems to be stepping into the limelight. We recently sold a stunning newly refurbished penthouse on St James’s Street in a discreet 24-hour portered building with wonderful views to Buckingham Palace and more than 800 sq ft of private terracing. We achieved £3,500 per sq ft – a new record for St James’s Street. For further enquiries contact James Gilbert-Green at Strutt & Parker Knightsbridge (020 7235 9959; struttandparker.com)

Choice: An act of choosing between two or more possibilities. A thing or person which is chosen.

, n o i t c e l e s , y t e i r a , v e t , a e r g t n s a r i R f , s s a l c t s r i f , , r t o n i e r e m p t r su o s s a , d e k c i hand-p array , display. prime ,

Where there is choice, a decision must be made. Making the right choice is crucial to the success of any project. Pastor Real Estate work with discerning clients, helping them make the right choices. Offering a comprehensive range of specialist real estate services and expertise honed over three generations â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Pastor is the choice for real estate.

Sales / Lettings / Property Management / Consultancy / Investment / Architecture / Commercial / Project Management

www.pastor-realestate.com PASTOR REAL ESTATE 48 CURZON STREET, LONDON, W1J 7UL â&#x20AC;˘ T +44 (0)20 3195 9595 F +44 (0)20 3195 9596

TO LET MAYFAIR, LONDON W1

£3000 per week

Delightful Mayfair townhouse located in a charming cobbled street moments from Park Lane. Newly decorated throughout and interior designed.

FURTHER DETAILS:

The property offers bright, flexible family living and entertaining accommodation extending to 2,700 sq ft (251 sq m). Entrance hall, dining/reception room, drawing room, study, master bedroom suite with dressing room, three further bedrooms, three bathrooms, kitchen, utility and large roof terrace with skyline views of Mayfair. The lower ground floor could be additional entertaining space or a self-contained guest suite. Freehold.

T +44 (0)20 3195 9595 E lettings@pastor-realestate.com

Spencer Taffurelli

PASTOR REAL ESTATE 48 CURZON STREET, LONDON, W1J 7UL • T +44 (0)20 3195 9595 F +44 (0)20 3195 9596

www.pastor-realestate.com

TO LET HYDE PARK, LONDON W2

ÂŁ1850 per week

Exceptional two bedroom apartment in this spectacular development with Hyde Park and the vibrancy of Central London on your doorstep.

FURTHER DETAILS:

This stunning property, with itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own private entrance, has been designed around the grandeur of the original architecture and interior features of the building and is magnificently furnished. Two double bedrooms, reception room, dining room, Fantini bathrooms and fully fitted kitchen with excellent storage throughout and comfort cooling. The Lancasters offers a luxurious spa, swimming pool, gymnasium and steam room available to all residents with 24 hour concierge, secure underground parking space and valet parking.

T +44 (0)20 3195 9595 E lettings@pastor-realestate.com

Spencer Taffurelli

TO LET MAYFAIR, LONDON W1

£1850 per week

In the heart of Mayfair between Grosvenor Square and Park Lane an elegantly decorated, beautifully furnished flat with high specification appliances. Accommodation: double reception room, dining room, two double bedrooms (one en-suite), single bedroom, family bathroom, fully fitted kitchen, guest cloakroom, security alarm and video entry phone.

FURTHER DETAILS:

TO LET MAYFAIR, LONDON W1

£3200 per week

Beautifully presented two bedroom apartment in this prestigious portered block opposite Hyde Park benefiting from maid and concierge services. The apartment is located to allow easy access to Hyde Park, Green Park and Bond Street. Accommodation: double reception room, fully fitted kitchen, two double bedrooms, two bathrooms and all utilities are included in the rent.

FURTHER DETAILS:

Spencer Taffurelli T +44 (0)20 3195 9595 E lettings@pastor-realestate.com

PASTOR REAL ESTATE 48 CURZON STREET, LONDON, W1J 7UL • T +44 (0)20 3195 9595 F +44 (0)20 3195 9596

www.pastor-realestate.com

TO LET MAYFAIR, LONDON W1

ÂŁ3850 per week

Fabulous duplex apartment forming part of the adjacent Metropolitan Hotel with private entrance and patio. The property enjoys all the facilities of the hotel including free Wi-Fi, 24 hour room service, gym and spa facilities and 5 days a week maid service. Double reception room, two double en-suite bedrooms and state-of-the-art kitchen with dining area.

FURTHER DETAILS:

TO LET MARYLEBONE, LONDON W1

ÂŁ825 per week

Interior designed apartment in a luxury development ideally located close to Bond Street and Marylebone High Street. Extending to 900 sq ft (83 sq m) accommodation comprises wood flooring, two double bedrooms, two bathrooms (one en-suite), fully fitted kitchen with granite worktops, excellent storage throughout & air conditioning.

FURTHER DETAILS:

Spencer Taffurelli T +44 (0)20 3195 9595 E lettings@pastor-realestate.com

HOT PROPERTY Chesterfield Hill, W1J

Knight Frank: For further enquiries contact Harvey Cyzer (020 7647 6615; harvey.cyzer@knightfrank.com) 158

The mayfair Magazine | Property

home should evoke a true sense of calm, and be a place where you can close the door and forget the world outside. This is what residential development company Vabel has achieved with its latest project in the form of a stunning restored Georgian townhouse at 3 Chesterfield Hill. But it’s also a place where many surprises are to be found. Vabel’s work has seen a complete rejuvenation of the property, as the five-bedroom house has been given new life and brought into the 21st century, all done while paying homage to its heritage. The harmonious balance between modernity and history is sensitively executed,

‘Its repointed and acidwashed bricks have revived its stunning red façade’ and while the entire house was demolished, its quintessentially Mayfair façade remained. Making a good first impression is important, and this townhouse is certainly stunning at first glance. Its repointed and acid-washed bricks have revived its stunning red façade, and the stately wrought-iron railings, Portland stone steps and bespoke hardwood door also make for an elegant arrival. But it’s when you open the door that something truly spectacular happens. Jeremy Spencer, director of Vabel, understands the importance of a striking hallway. ‘It contributes to ones wellbeing. It’s a buffer between the street and the rest of the house for you to catch your breath,’ he says. He describes the space as ‘David Collins-esque’, with its navy blue velvet sofas and a quarter-ofa-ton bronze and glass chandelier from Santa & Cole, which illuminates the room. On the walls, bespoke joinery is met with walnut veneers, which Spencer sourced from the same factory that supplies Bentley cars. From the hallway you can catch a glimpse of a creation quite unlike any other you would find in Mayfair: a two-storey, green living wall.

The hallway leads to the informal living area where the green wall can be truly admired, and also connects the kitchen on the lower-ground floor and the first-floor terrace above, creating an open, light and calm space in which to relax. After taking the lift to the lower-ground floor, you’re met by an illuminated wine display, while the sleek kitchen is fully fitted and beautifully laid out by Modulnova. This includes a breakfast bar and Gaggenau appliances without making the space feel congested. The lighting is soft and the panelling comes in rich walnut tones. This is part of Vabel’s signature – its ability to use space to be the most functional, homely and aesthetically stunning that it can possibly be. The first-floor terrace is an enclave of peace, which floats on a glass floor above the living space. The second and third floors are home to the master suites, both commanding a whole floor each. With colour palettes of subtle taupe and soft charcoal, B&B Italia leather beds and 500 thread-count Egyptian bed linen, the bedrooms are grand places to rest your head. The en suites are clad with warm grey marble from Verona, also hand-selected by Spencer, and the neighbouring dressing rooms provide a vast amount of space for even the largest collection of suits and shoes. A dedicated cinema room and study also allow for both working and playing in style. The property is full of wonderful discoveries, and is an ultimate haven of serenity. Vabel has reinterpreted the handsome townhouse with a sense of great modesty and charm. £13,950,000. For sale through Knight Frank Mayfair

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Alpine escape A sanctuary in the snow-capped Swiss GraubuĚ&#x2C6;nden mountains can be forever yours as we discover a glamorous set of apartments for sale in the town of Arosa

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here’s something so calming about the sight of snow dusted across imposing mountains, especially when viewed from the comfort of a cosy alpine apartment with its own open fire. Whether you’re a keen skier, or just enjoy the view of picturesque slopes, bespoke travel company Powder Byrne is bringing the ideal opportunity to the market with the sale of nine boutique residences in the resort of Arosa, Switzerland. Deemed as one of Switzerland’s best-kept secrets, this destination sits in the heart of the Graubünden mountains, nestled in at 1,800m in the romantic Schanfigg Valley. Despite the assumption that skiing is a winter sport, this resort is perfect for summer jaunts as well, as it is blessed with prolonged sunny days. The charming, traditional Swiss-style two or threebedroom chalets are designed to be the ideal home from home, with spacious entertaining areas to unwind in and top-of-the-range kitchens for cooking feasts for your family or guests. There is also access to all of the ‘communal’ areas such as a boot room with an honesty bar, a

private gym and a wellness area including a sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi. What really sets these boutique dwellings apart from others is the Swiss Collection membership that is offered to buyers upon purchase, which includes a bespoke management service. This means the general day-to-day running of the apartments is taken care of – from paying household bills to doing the laundry, so you won’t have to lift a finger while relaxing in your alpine haven. This mountainous pied-à-terre strikes the perfect balance between cosy and impressive, designed using a combination of local, natural materials and all the 21st-century appliances you could need. Experience the majesty of the Swiss Alps and you may never want to leave. Chesa Araus chalets are now on sale off-plan with prices between £650,000 - £2 million. They will be completed by early 2016. For further enquiries contact Powder Byrne (020 8246 5306; powderbyrne.com)

‘This resort is perfect for summer as well, as it is blessed with prolonged sunny days’

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carterjonas.co.uk Offices throughout the UK

Mayfair W1 Mount Street

An exceptionally elegant lateral apartment located in arguably Mayfair’s most fashionable address. The property has high ceilings and original period detailing throughout. Entrance hall • Reception room • Principal bedroom with en suite • Further double bedroom • Bedroom/study • Shower room • Kitchen • 1,762 sq ft • EPC rating D

Guide price £4,695,000

Mayfair & St James’s

020 7493 0676 ashley.coleman@carterjonas.co.uk

View this property now on mobile or desktop devices cjview.me/MMF4

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