Notting Hill & Holland Park Magazine October 2016

BORN FROM EXTRAORDINARY OAK CASKS

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CONTENTS 14

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Sophie’s Choice

Grand Designs

Olivia Sharpe speaks to local resident Sophie Ashby, the 28-year-old interior designer making her mark in the industry

Anti-style architect Eric Carlson tells Ellen Millard about his design business Carbondale and creating luxury fashion boutiques

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Heaven or Elle

Golden Touch

Supermodel-turned-designer Elle Macpherson on her new lingerie line and her favourite Notting Hill haunts

We speak to talented Italian jeweller Marco Bicego, who in 15 years has struck gold with his jewellery brand

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A Stitch in Time

Gone With the Wind

From patchwork design to embroidery, we discover the contemporary artisans championing time-honoured traditions

Breeze into the new season with our pick of the latest chunky knits, oversized coats and polo necks

The Notting Hill & Holland Park Magazine is distributed in W8, W11, W14 and parts of W2, W9 and W10

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On the Cover...

This year marks the 10th anniversary of Studioart, a leather interior design company founded by Nadia and Gianfranco Dalle Mese in 2006.

Inspired by her father’s Italian tannery, Nadia decided to bring her love of fashion and interior design together to create her brand, which has since collaborated with Porta Romana, Rubelli, Donghia and Giorgetti and contributed to hotels such as Brown’s in London and the JW Marriott Resort in Venice.

Discover the journey behind the brand on pages 22 to 24, where we explore the contemporary textile artisans championing time-honoured practices in the 21st century.

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Acting Editor Olivia Sharpe Assistant Editor Ellen Millard Editorial Assistants Lauren Stevens Laura Dunham Senior Designer Catherine Johnson Brand Consistency Laddawan Juhong

Cover image: photography: Paolo Veclani

74 Charlotte Rhys

84 Australia

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Production Hugo Wheatley Danny Lesar Alice Ford Jamie Steele Client Relationship Director Friday Dalrymple Executive Director Sophie Roberts General Manager Fiona Fenwick Managing Director Eren Ellwood Proudly published & printed in the UK by

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Editor’s Letter

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Drinking & Dining

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Collection

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Local News

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Home & Garden

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Health & Beauty

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Travel

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From the EDITOR “If you have an idea and you draw it on a piece of paper, you may see if that idea works or not in a year or two, which is a long time. I would like to do a job that gives instant gratification, so I would probably polish shoes.” - Eric Carlson In the world of design, patience is a virtue. Creativity may be instantaneous, but the actual process of developing an idea can be laborious. Architect Eric Carlson knows this only too well, having spent the past 12 years building up his interior design firm Carbondale. However, as Sylvia Plath observed, the worst enemy to creativity is not impatience, but self-doubt and this is something Carlson has never struggled with, having boldly designed showrooms for luxury powerhouses Louis Vuitton, BMW and TAG Heuer. Ellen Millard learns the secret to his success (p.26).

When it comes to self-confidence, Elle Macpherson is no stranger to it, which is hardly suprising, given that she was dubbed ‘The Body’ in the 1980s due to her record number of swimsuit covers for Sports Illustrated.

Today, the 52-year-old is also recognised as a successful businesswoman and this year sees the launch of her latest venture, a line of lingerie. “I felt it was time to step up and create a business that truly encapsulates my vision. Elle Macpherson Body is as much about attitude as it is about lingerie.” Macpherson reveals how she set about creating the perfect T-shirt bra on page 18.

Another designer looking to make her mark is Notting Hill resident Sophie Ashby. In just three years, the 28-yearold has gone from establishing her vision on a laptop in a café to realising her ambition of owning her own interior design studio. She shares her inspirations, love of art and favourite local haunts (p.14). Before the age of technology, artisans had to make do with the tools of the trade and far from being archaic, many of these are still being employed to this day. From medieval embroidery to traditional patchwork, Sophie Halse considers the contemporary artisans sticking to time-honoured practices (p.22).

Finally, head over to our travel section, where Deborah Cicurel harks back to a time when train journeys were the height of sophistication on her expedition through Australia (p.84).

Acting Editor

Olivia Sharpe Follow us on Twitter @KandCMagazine or email KCeditor@runwildgroup.co.uk with any comments

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Buy & Sell

16 specialist departments and a weekly general sale

1 Colville Road, London, W3 8BL 020 8992 4442 chiswickauctions.co.uk

Sophie Ashby, all images courtesy of: Studio Ashby

interview

Sophie’s Choice

With a noticeable increase in the number of start-up companies in the UK, Olivia Sharpe speaks to 28-year-old Sophie Ashby, who is making her mark on the interior design industry with her first business venture “Wow, you’re so young!” has got to be one of the most condescending phrases targeted at young people in the workplace. Starting out as a relatively young editor, I have fallen victim to this unnecessary put down in my time and while it has become less frequent with age (both a blessing and a curse), it used to drive me crazy.

Twenty-eight year old Sophie Ashby has fortunately never allowed her youth to impinge on her ambition and first founded her interior design company, Studio Ashby, at the tender age of 25. According to a survey conducted by data research firm DueDil at the end of 2014, Sophie joins an increasing number of under 35s setting up their own start-up businesses. This reason has largely been put down to the recession as, with fewer jobs and rising prices, young people no longer want to pin all their hopes on finding the perfect job. However, for Sophie, her reasons for setting up on her own were quite simple.

“I think it was more the case of what happens to most people when you start getting the feeling that you could do the job yourself,” she explains down the phone to me one morning. “I didn’t have any big plans to start my own business. I just wanted to see if I could do it.”

And so far, she has certainly done that. In just three years, Sophie has gone from her laptop in a café with no investment to a healthy team of nine in a studio in Notting Hill. This is thanks to numerous successful projects, including a townhouse in Chelsea for an Italian family; a penthouse in Soho; a country house in Somerset for budding actress Gabriella Wilde; and a holiday home in France, to name but a few.

While for some it can take years to build up a roster of clients, Sophie found that after landing her first client – a property developer friend who had a home just off Trafalgar Square that needed doing up – there was very much “a snowballing effect” and in just six months, she couldn’t believe that she had her first fulltime employee and very own office.

Although Sophie never dreamt she would one day have her own business, she knew from a relatively

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young age that interior design was her passion. HalfEnglish, half-South African, Sophie’s parents moved around a lot when she was younger so she had the benefit of living in several different homes. Having always had a keen eye for art, she studied History of Art at the University of Leeds, before moving to New York to study at Parsons, The New School for Design in Manhattan. After graduating in interior design, she moved back to England where she was shown the ropes by talented interior designer Victoria Fairfax (whom instilled in Sophie her love of antiques), before heading up the interiors team at Spring & Mercer.

It was while at this small but thriving start-up that Sophie really came into her own and “got a taste” for what she wanted to do aesthetically. She has evidently made quite a mark already in the sector, having been shortlisted in the Andrew Martin International Interior Designer of the Year Award 2015. Sophie’s aim in all of her projects is to create authentic spaces that draw upon her love of art, antique furniture and colour. It can be difficult to carve out a niche for oneself in such an over-saturated industry, which is why the designer only agrees to projects where she knows that she will be allowed to remain truthful to her creative vision.

“As a company, we have an aesthetic and if clients come to us wanting something completely different from that, then we tend to point them in a different direction,” she explains. “I wouldn’t be comfortable working on a project I fundamentally didn’t agree with from a design point of view and typically clients come to us because they have seen what we do and they like our style.”

While Sophie won’t say exactly what interior design styles she dislikes, she does admit to not liking “anything frilly, fancy or overworked”, instead preferring to appreciate “the natural poetry of materials”. However, she is quick to state that she is not a minimalist and if she had to sum up her work in one word (although she hates the term), it would be eclectic.

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From private homes to commercial ventures, there have been several projects of which Sophie is proud, but her most exciting to date has been doing up a boutique hotel in Robertson, a small town in the Western Cape of South Africa. Having spent much of her youth there, this was very close to the designer’s heart and she was determined to do it justice. She therefore set herself the challenge of sourcing all of the materials locally. Daunted by the prospect of “having to come up with a whole new address book of contacts overnight”, she didn’t let this deter her and seeing the end result has been very rewarding.

The designer has proven herself very resourceful as even when she’s in London, she is constantly hunting down new and interesting finds. With an “anti-trend” approach to design, Sophie loves websites such as 1stdibs in sourcing rare antiques and vintage pieces, along with Retro Start. She collects antiques for herself (one of her favourites is an Art Deco walnut bookcase), but living in a small flat in Notting Hill with her boyfriend means that she doesn’t have the luxury of hoarding and therefore has a ‘waste not, want not approach’ to her design methods.

“I’m at the beginning of my career so my life is very simple and modest, and sometimes some of the requests I get from clients can seem a bit extravagant,” she says. “Things like ripping out a brand new kitchen to put in something a bit different seems kind of extraordinary to me.”

In terms of the future, Sophie is happy focusing on the here and now and with an apartment in Holland Park and a new Nigerian restaurant (possibly in Mayfair) in the pipeline, she has plenty to keep herself busy. And yet, she confides that, like most girls, she would love one day to have her own shop in Notting Hill.

“I probably wouldn’t be able to afford the rent but Westbourne Grove, or maybe somewhere on Portobello Road would be cool,” she says, smiling. “I love the fact that within one or two streets you can go from the grottier, grittier side of Notting Hill to the more upmarket end. So depending on your mood you can slum it or do it in real style.”

Sophie has been labelled a ‘wild card’ by her peers due to her youth and set vision, but rather than letting this intimidate her, she takes it as a compliment.

“I’m pitching against real heavyweights who have been in the business for 30-odd years and have a triedand-tested look. We work with clients who recognise we are doing things a bit differently, but are willing to take a risk on us.” And judging from Studio Ashby’s work to date, it’s a risk that clearly pays off.

Studio Ashby, Unit 215, Grand Union Studios, 332 Ladbroke Grove, W10, 0203 176 2571, studioashby.com

interview

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Photography: Billie Brand

interview

Heaven

Elle or

More than just ‘The Body’ that graced a record number of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue covers, Elle Macpherson is a business tour de force with a beauty range and a line of wellbeing products under her belt. As she launches her new lingerie brand, she tells Ellen Millard about the design process, her struggle to find the perfect T-shirt bra and her (surprisingly simple) beauty regime It HAS been reported that Kendall Jenner drinks 12 cups of detox tea a day, Adriana Lima downs a concoction of protein shakes in the weeks leading up to a Victoria’s Secret show and Naomi Campbell is a fan of juicing. The diet tips of the runway elite range from the dull (steamed vegetables are the side dish du jour) to the downright absurd (baby food, anyone?) and yet there are few who would bypass a chance to know their secrets.

With more than 30 years experience in the modelling industry and a figure many would happily succumb to a lifetime of Ella’s Kitchen pouches for, it stands to reason that modelling heavyweight Elle Macpherson would follow a similar regime to her colleagues. Dubbed ‘The Body’ after gracing the cover of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue no less than five times during the 1980s, the now 52-year-old still outshines most on the modelling platform.

So it’s refreshing to hear that her guilty pleasures – for which she firmly denies any shame – include dark chocolate,

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whipped cream, and peanut butter and jam sandwiches.

“I also love Marmite, Vegemite, and English breakfast tea with milk and sugar,” she enthuses. “And I love curries, Thai food, Mexican guava and chips. I also miss Australian Paddle Pops.”

It’s a world away from the kale and quinoa that I was expecting, but then again Macpherson isn’t your average model. After successfully conquering the industry with a string of magazine covers, catwalk shows and campaigns, she broke away from her agency Ford Models in 1994 and set up her own company, Elle Macpherson Inc. Since then she has established a number of business ventures, including a beauty line that she created in partnership with Boots, supplement brand WelleCo and a lingerie collection with Bendon, known as Elle Macpherson Intimates.

Now, the supermodel is taking the reins and is moving away from licensed brands to set up her very own line of underwear, Elle Macpherson Body. “I felt it was time to step up and create a business that truly encapsulates my vision,” she explains. “Elle Macpherson Body is as much about attitude as it is about lingerie. In essence the brand is defined by dynamic simplicity, an Australian uncontrived cool and a new type of strong sexy.”

The range is extensive to say the least, including 364 pieces divided into a total of 19 categories.

Embroidered balconette bras and silk bodies in jewel

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tones are on offer alongside lace trimmed French knickers and comfortable sports bras. “I believe true luxury is comfort and style. My aim was to design the perfect T-shirt bra – which I could never find – and I think that we have achieved it,” Macpherson tells me. “The collection centres around the body; there are contemporary sports-inspired pieces made using microfibre and Air Tech fabric in a selection of bold yet wearable colours. I would say that the bodysuit is the signature piece that will become a staple in every woman’s wardrobe.”

She describes her own style as “classic with a twist”, focusing on ease and comfort. “Dressing has to be effortless for me and I tend to have a bit of a uniform to make it easy,” she says. “Feeling good, strong and positive is important to me.”

These are the elements that Macpherson drew on when designing the new range, creating it “not only with my teenage daughters or myself in mind, but everyone in between. The Elle Macpherson Body woman is modern, bold and confident – but she could be any age or shape.”

Those expecting to see the supermodel in the advertising campaigns should think again. Instead, up-and-coming model Kirstin Liljegren fronts the label’s imagery, which was shot by photographer Gilles Bensimon.

The aim of the campaign was to reflect the laid-back Australian lifestyle. “Kirstin is a great representation of an EMB woman – natural, athletic and with a sense of freedom,” Macpherson explains. “She captures the essence of our brand.”

It must be good to have one of the original supers in your corner so early on in your career, especially Macpherson, who is no stranger to mentoring up-and-coming catwalk stars, having acted as the head judge on Britain’s Next Top Model for four years in a row. Now she’s set to take her modelling acumen back to her home country, where she will head up the Australian version of the show in the programme’s 10th series.

When it comes to advice for young models who are finding their feet in the industry, Macpherson’s counsel is one that could be applied to people from all walks of life, supermodel or not. “Drink lots of water and nourish your body properly,” she suggests. “I take the Super Elixir Super Greens powder every day. Nutrition is the key to a healthy long life.”

In fact, her beauty regime in general seems to follow a similar beat. “My best advice is to always think of beauty from the inside out – an alkaline and PH-neutral body is a healthier body,” she says.“I also cannot stress the importance of a good night’s sleep enough. I make sure I get seven hours a night and I have a designated routine of bedtime rituals to help me unwind and get the Z’s I need.”

For exercise, the former-Notting Hill local would cycle everywhere when she lived in London but, since moving to Miami, she’s traded her Boris bike for a few more adventurous outdoor pursuits. “I’m keen to try anything and I love being active. I feel most at home outdoors, so swimming, paddleboarding, skiing and anything that involves being in open water works for me.”

Despite moving across the pond, the Aussie admits that she still has a soft spot for London, where she shops for antiques on Pimlico Road, goes salsa dancing on Shaftesbury Avenue and meets for drinks at The Arts Club on Dover Street. “I love London. I always think it looks its best in the sunshine – it doesn’t rain as much as people think!” she jokes. “The Notting Hill Brasserie was my favourite for dining with friends and E&O does fantastic dim sum; it’s just the right level of low-key.”

I imagine quiet moments are hard to come by for Macpherson, who seems to be busier than ever creating a name for herself in the notoriously competitive retail industry. She’s not the first model to go from billboard to boardroom and, with a stream of social media-savvy models capturing a new generation hook, line and sinker, it’s unlikely she’ll be the last.

What makes Macpherson stand out from the crowd is her determination to be more than just a face of a brand. While she cites “great teams, co-dreamers and cooperation” as key to her various businesses’ successes, she’s quick to assure me that her association with Elle Macpherson Body extends further than a shared name.

“I’m interested in all aspects of this venture: concept, branding, design, investment, finance and retail distribution,” she comments. “Believing in the products I put my name to and, more recently, having the skin in the game by investing in the businesses I own, is key to me.” Ambitious as ever, plans are already in place to grow the brand, which will no doubt prove to be as successful as her previous ventures. “We are launching sleepwear for spring and we are also working on expanding into some new categories for A/W17,” she teases. “Watch this space.”

From £17, available at Harrods

“Dressing has to be effortless for me and I tend to have a bit of a uniform to make it easy”

interview

Photography: Gilles Bensimon

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Photography: Paolo Veclani for Studioart

A Stitch

in time

As the Victoria and Albert Museum celebrates the art of embroidery with an exhibition dedicated to medieval needlework, Sophie Halse discovers the contemporary textile artisans sticking with time-honoured traditions

FEATURE

needlework that was popular in England between the 12th and 15th centuries. One hundred handmade objects that are linked to luminaries from the Middle Ages, including King Edward I and Queen Eleanor of Castile, will be on display alongside panel paintings, manuscripts, metalwork and sculptures that shed light on the tools and methods used to create each piece.

Clare Browne, co-curator of the exhibition and textiles specialist at the museum, was heavily involved in sourcing the artefacts, having travelled all over to New York, Madrid, Stockholm, Rome and Reykjavik. “English embroidery from the medieval period is generally thought to be some of the most beautiful and skilled ever carried out,” Browne enthuses. “Although the objects may not be as beautiful to look at now because inevitably, after 700 years, textiles do tend to deteriorate slightly, we still think that these objects are some of the most beautiful our visitors will have seen and they’ll be amazed at how much artistry and skill there is in them.”

While the level of expertise that medieval embroidery requires is rarely seen in the present day – and the few that can do it are specialist practitioners – hand embroidery is certainly making a comeback in fashion, with the likes of Valentino, Erdem and Gucci championing intricate needlework. “Because embroidery is so painstakingly slow, it’s really only at the very top end of the market that high quality embroidery is being carried out,” Browne explains.

“The particular techniques that were used in medieval times rather fell out of use among professionals because they are so difficult and intricate.”

While that particular style of embroidery is lesser known in contemporary circles, interest in needlework, cross-stitch and knitting is still going strong in the 21st century, a trend that is no doubt helped by the likes of aficionado Kaffe Fassett. “Those high tech girls and guys have got to have some therapy and there’s nothing like sitting down and stitching some needlepoint,” Fassett jokes when I ask if his craft has a place in a digital world. “The more machines take over our lives, the better connected people will be to their resources, so people will be able to find wonderful teachers and materials.”

Known for his colourful prints, which often feature floral designs, Fassett found a love for the bold and the bright through his mother, who “had a tremendous sense of colour and style”. After stumbling upon patchwork through a friend and learning to knit in just 25 minutes on a train, the designer has since been spreading his knowledge to the masses through his workshops and books. His latest release, Kaffe Fassett’s Bold Blooms, focuses on his love of florals. “When I got to England I was bowled over by the English approach to gardens,”

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hen HRH The Duchess of Cambridge spent the eve of her wedding day in The Goring hotel’s Royal Suite, she was no doubt fully aware of the historic journey on which she would be embarking the next day. With her mind preoccupied, it may have slipped her notice that the room in which she was staying harboured its very own slice of British history, too. Designed by Russell Sage to mark the hotel’s centenary, the suite’s master bedroom is swathed in a facsimile of the silk that decorated the First Class Dining Room of the RMS Titanic, while the bathroom features a fabric identical to that which is in the throne room of Buckingham Palace. Both the replicas and originals were created by Gainsborough, a silk weaving company that Sage has been the creative director of since 2013.

Founded in 1903 by Reginald Warner, Gainsborough’s Sudbury-based textile mill is still churning out weaves on 80-year-old looms today, and has done so for the likes of Paul Smith, Tom Dixon, The National Gallery, The White House, 10 Downing Street, as well as the sets of Downton Abbey and Pirates of the Caribbean, to name but a few. Along with 1920s machinery, original pattern cards and a process that harks back to the early 1900s, the mill is home to an extensive archive of more than 7,000 fabrics.

“It’s like stepping back in time,” Karen Beauchamp, former design director of Cole & Son and Gainsborough’s latest collaborator, tells me. “I spent a week there going through the archives and it was amazing. I still think that there are things that I haven’t seen so every time I go back I spend some more time in the archives and pull more things out.”

Beauchamp’s collection for the brand comprises a line of weaves modelled on archive designs that have been reworked for the 21st century, from dark coloured damasks to gingham checks and candy stripes in dusty pastel hues. The designer’s brief was simply to search through the company’s history and redesign the weaves that she picked for a contemporary audience, ensuring that they could work for an urban-based space or a country dwelling. “There is a wealth of weaves and they all have different textures and yarns; it’s just fantastic what you can actually glean from each design.”

And she’s not the only one who’s been rediscovering the textiles of yesteryear. This October, the V&A looks back at medieval embroidery in the largest exhibition of its kind for half a century, featuring works that are returning to England for the first time since their creation. Opus Anglicanum: Masterpieces of English Medieval Embroidery highlights the use of intricate

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Flora by Janet Haigh

Fassett enthuses. “I just love the energy that goes into reviving old styles. Colour is the magic of this world and you don’t get it more pure than the petal of a flower, so my work is filled with flowers and leaves.”

The natural world has long been used in craftsmanship, whether it be as inspiration or as a source for materials. Interior design brand Studioart works with nature in a rather different way to Fassett, calling on the hides of animals to create its luxurious leather pieces.

“It’s amazing to see what you can obtain by treating and processing leather that otherwise would be food waste,” Studioart’s founder, Nadia Dalle Mese, explains. “It is sort of recycling and the result is incredible. It ages and gets better with use so it is never the same twice.”

While Studioart won’t be winning any brownie points with vegans, those keen to add a touch of leather to their homes should take heed of the brand’s tannery in Italy, where the Dalle Mese family has been crafting the material since the early 1960s. “After World War II, the Chiampo Valley in Veneto became renowned for leather treatments, processes and craftsmanship,” the designer explains. “My father started working in one of the first tanneries in the valley and soon gained the necessary knowledge for treating and processing to start his own business.”

Dalle Mese began Studioart 10 years ago, a by-product of her family’s long history in leather craftsmanship that combines her love of fashion and interior design. Since its birth, the brand has collaborated with Porta Romana, Rubelli, Donghia and Giorgetti and contributed to hotels such as Brown’s in London and the JW Marriott Resort in Venice. “Leather used to be considered a classic material mainly used for upholstery and boiseries,” Dalle Mese tells me. “Thanks to improved

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knowledge and manufacturing processes, leather is no longer considered old-fashioned, but an original decorative and modern aspect for interior design.”

Now in its 10th year, Studioart will launch an anniversary collection of new products, as well as collaborative lines with young emerging designers, who will put their own stamp on the brand’s signature product, Leatherwall. Coming from a family of craftsmen, Dalle Mese is well-versed in luxury artisanship, all the more so having been born and bred in Italy, where creativity is cherished. “From an historic point of view, Italy did not have a uniform growth of industries,” the designer tells me. “Each region specialised in certain crafts according to the weather conditions and what local industries demanded. I think that certain beautiful results couldn’t be obtained without craftsmen.”

Back in the UK, a similar appreciation for such artistry continues to thrive, meaning that there will always be a place for the silk weavers, embroiderers, knitters and other artisans of the nation. “In the British Isles I think that there’s a great respect for the old crafts and trades,” Beauchamp concludes. “So many jobs are desk-bound these days, people actually want to create and do something with their hands. To buy a piece that’s handmade is to buy something that’s unique, and I think that’s very important.”

Karen Beauchamp for Gainsborough, from a selection, gainsborough.co.uk; Opus Anglicanum: Masterpieces of English Medieval Embroidery, £12, 1 October – 5 February 2017, Victoria and Albert Museum, vam.ac.uk/opus; Kaffe Fassett’s Bold Blooms by Kaffe Fassett and Liza Prior Lucy, £21.99, abramsbooks.com; Studioart is available at Donghia/Rubelli, Design Centre East, Chelsea Harbour, SW10, rubelli.com

Clockwise from top left: Studioart Leatherwall, photography: Paolo Veclani; Image courtesy of: Silk weaving machine, Gainsborough Photography: Alun Callender; Images courtesy of: Kaffe Fassett’s Bold Blooms, photography: ©Debbie Patterson

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COURVOISIER.COM

Courvoisier. the Napoleon device and Le Cognac de Napoleon are trademarks of Courvoisier S.A.S. ©2016 Courvoisier S.A.S.

This page: Louis Vuitton, Roppongi Hills, Tokyo; photography: Daici Ano

interview

Grand Designs Eric Carlson has made a name for himself in the luxury market with his Parisian-based architecture firm Carbondale, seducing Louis Vuitton, TAG Heuer and BMW with his striking designs. The self-confessed ‘anti-style’ architect tells Ellen Millard the secret to his success Patience is a virtue, but if the founder of architect and interior design powerhouse Carbondale had to choose another career, he would swap patience for a vocation for which the reward would be instantaneous. The solution?

Being a shoe shiner, of course. “The problem with architecture is that it takes time,” explains Eric Carlson. “If you have an idea and you draw it on a piece of paper, you may see if that idea works or not in a year or two, which is a long time. I would like to do a job that gives instant gratification, so I would probably polish shoes.” Fortunately, the architecture mogul now has his pick of designer brogues to buff, having carved out a career creating flagship stores for a number of design dignitaries.

Specialising in all things luxury, Carbondale was founded in Paris in 2004 by Michigan-born Carlson, who cut his teeth heading up Louis Vuitton’s architecture department before branching out on his own in a bid to tap into multiple luxury divisions, as opposed to just fashion. Twelve years later and it’s safe to say that he has succeeded, having constructed showrooms for BMW in Manhattan, the Celux club in Tokyo, São Paulo’s Tre Bicchieri restaurant, and JK Iguatemi shopping centre.

But that’s not to say that he has completely shied away from the fashion world; in fact, while Carlson affirms that his specialisation is more geared towards customisation than it is style, I would go so far as to say that his best work is that which is sartorially-minded. If you have ever perused the Longchamp boutique on New Bond Street, the H.Stern

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store in São Paulo or, most notably, the golden Louis Vuitton flagship on the Champs-Élysées, then you will see what I mean, for these were all created by the hand of Carlson and his cohort of shopping-savvy designers.

“I think fashion and luxury are very aware about how they are perceived and therefore the brands want architects who are able to deal with that,” he explains. “They come to us because they see that we are able to understand who they are and to manifest that into architecture, experience, perception, images and facades.”

The Louis Vuitton boutique in Paris is particularly spectacular; staircases absent, it instead has twisting floors that traverse around the store, taking you on a journey through the space in a way that Carlson likens to the Guggenheim Museum in New York.

“It’s kind of a travelling voyage experience, much like Louis Vuitton, which started by creating trunks for travellers,” he enthuses. “That was our intention; when you walk in you don’t get lost, but you get taken down this path that automatically presents you with all of the different realms of the brand.”

While Carlson had his fun with the interior – stripping it bare of its four floors and starting from scratch – the facade was a whole other kettle of fish, given that it was historically classified and therefore untouchable.

“How do you define the image of a building that you can’t actually do anything to?” Carlson laughs. “It was a challenge but, by working behind the glass that represents about

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Clockwise from top left: Longchamp London boutique, New Bond Street; Louis Vuitton, Roppongi Hills, Tokyo, photography: Daici Ano; BMW showroom, Manhattan, photography: O. Brunet; Louis Vuitton store facade on the Champs-Élysées, Paris, photography: Jimmy Cohrssen Opposite page: Longchamp London boutique, New Bond Street

interview

65 per cent of the building, we managed to create a double skin that’s visible from the outside, which unifies the entire building and was inspired by the monogram of a Louis Vuitton bag.”

Innovations in architectural design have come thick and fast for Carbondale. For the Paspaley pearls boutique in Brisbane, the firm created a pearlescent effect using a composition of lamps strung vertically behind a glass facade, creating the appearance of a string of glowing beads. Inside, cream and golden tones were used throughout on reflective surfaces to produce a glimmering effect. In Sydney, the boutique for Australian footwear brand Florsheim was decorated with a collage of coloured glass squares in leather shades of tan, black and taupe, while London’s Longchamp store featured a three-storey high multi-coloured mural in a design modelled on the label’s logo.

You don’t get as far as Carlson has without having something of an ego and the architect has no qualms about telling me that he is without a doubt “anti-style” – and don’t even get him started on trends.

“If you’re an architect and you have a style or a form of language, then you usually repeat that language over and over again and you become known for that. I make projects for people that are theirs and I don’t want to apply my own aesthetic or language to them,” he explains. “I would go so far as to say that if somebody recognised a building as an Eric Carlson then I would have failed to do my job correctly.”

When working on a new project, he encourages his staff to ignore the latest design fads, arguing that they’re likely to inhibit any original ideas. “In my world, we are leaders, not followers, so people will often follow us to define a trend. That sounds very arrogant, I realise, but it’s sort of true. Trends are preconceptions that are inevitably polluting the discovery of something new.”

The secret to his success, he tells me, is the in-depth research that his team does prior to design, during which they delve into the client’s background to truly understand who they are and how they want to be perceived. “I am sitting in my office looking at the walls because they’re covered with images and text for a new project we’re doing,” he tells me down the phone from his Paris-based headquarters.

“We just presented to a big luxury fashion house and the owner told me that we understand his brand better than his staff, which is a huge compliment because that means that we’re going to get it right the first time.”

During our 40-minute conversation, it becomes clear that Carlson is not one to toe the architectural line, and his maverick approach transcends to his (not-so) favourite periods of design and his favourite architects, too.

“I like the [design] pieces that broke the limits in whichever period they were created, whether classicism or baroque. I’m not into styles and romanticising about them; I’m more interested in radical people who broke through

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to create those things that we now define as styles,” he tells me. “I am very impressed with architects like Eero Saarinen, a Finnish-American who did very large projects like the Gateway Arch, a beautiful sculpture in St. Louis, but at the same time did chairs and tables. He really spans the spectrum of scale and has mastered all of them, which is extremely rare.” And which scale does he think Carbondale is best at? “I think we can do all of them,” he responds.

To back up his point, Carlson discusses a particularly

“The more complicated a client is, the better the project is” unusual request of the smaller scale variety that was commissioned for a Tokyo-based client, whose love of the Japanese liquor Shōchū necessitated an interior reshuffle.

“We designed 24 pieces of furniture for his house and each piece has a place for his special glass of wine, so he doesn’t lose it,” he laughs. “Everybody’s got their thing. The more complicated a client is, the better the project is. You really are forced to reinvent or create things.”

Now the team is keeping busy with projects in Beijing, Monte Carlo, Venice and São Paolo, but the architect remains tight-lipped on the scale of said commissions and the identity of the clients too, joking that he’s “an expert in discretion”. Self-confidence is something that the architect seams to have in abundance, but his pride is undoubtedly well-deserved and it’s clear that he has passion.

“I like that every project and every client is new. I don’t get tired of anything because there’s no repetition,” he says.

“I don’t do the same thing over and over again, and for me that’s vital, to be creative and pertinent. It’s important to be confronted by new challenges constantly.”

Put your Louis Vuitton loafers away because it sounds as though the world will have to wait a little while longer for Carlson’s shoe shining debut. Fortunately, what is the footwear industry’s loss is certainly architecture’s gain. cbdarch.com

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Blurred lines The worlds of jewellery and architecture regularly collide, as jewellers are inspired to emulate the dramatic, sculptural lines of buildings on a miniature, wearable scale. A case in point is Georg Jensen. Before she passed away, the Danish jeweller called upon architect Zaha Hadid to create a unique collection that drew on her artistic eye. Unveiled at this year’s Baselworld, the A/W16 range comprises five rings and three cuff bangles, all of which reference the undulating silhouettes of Hadid’s famed structures in their design.

Georg Jensen X Zaha Hadid The Lamellae Collection, Sterling silver: £670-£3,350; Rhodium with black diamonds, £5,650-£33,600, georgjensen.com

Image courtesy of: Georg Jensen

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JEWELLERY

BY OLIVIA SHARPE

The High Seas Jeweller Tessa Packard is never content with sitting still. Her ambitious plans to expand her fine jewellery range are evident in her collections, which constantly seek to push the boundaries and offer clients something different. The latest, For King and Country, quite literally covers the globe as Packard was inspired by the Age of Discovery when the likes of Christopher Columbus took to the high seas. From South Sea pearls to semi-precious stones, the collection highlights the many treasures they unearthed. Star pieces include the Explorer necklace, featuring a spinning globe, and the one-of-a-kind Opera length pearl necklace. This is the first time the designer has worked with pearls – demonstrating how she, too, is never afraid to take on a new challenge.

For King and Country, from £50-25,000, tessapackard.com

Heart and Sole Salvatore Ferragamo may be most famed for its shoes, but the Italian brand has, in recent years, been leaving its recognisable footprint on the jewellery industry. This year sees Ferragamo present its new exclusive fine jewellery collection, which is available in the Sloane Street boutique for the first time. Staying true to its heritage, each handcrafted design was forged by Florentine jewellers in workshops on the Ponte Vecchio – just steps away from the brand’s historic headquarters.

Each piece reinterprets timeless Ferragamo symbols, including its most iconic footwear designs. Rendered in miniature form in 18 different pendants, the legendary red shoes created for Marilyn Monroe by the founder arrive in three versions: white diamonds, rubies and sapphires.

207 Sloane Street, SW1X, ferragamo.com

Take a Stand Since debuting prêt-à-porter in 2015, Kova is reaching new heights with its first Haute Couture jewellery collection.

The range, by Russian-born designer Katie Kova, considers the concept of Russian Suprematism in six handmade cocktail rings. Rare gemstones – including quartz, aquamarine, nephrite, blue spinel and pearls – have been sculpted in ivory and rose, while the 18-karat gold setting comes in white, pink or black. Kova worked with artist Naomi Filmer on the campaign, which sees the graphic jewellery pieces elevated to objet d’art status, having been displayed on a tripartite cluster of metal structures custom-made by artisans.

From £11,200, kovajewels.com

Home Stretch Regarded by his peers as a ‘jewellery engineer’, British designer James Ganh (formerly at Fabergé) is fast making waves in the industry with his shape-shifting designs, including the 3 Way Tiara Bangle, part of the Princess collection. The transformable, fine jewellery piece (designed in either 18-karat white gold with white diamonds and pearls or 18-karat yellow gold with white diamonds, amethysts, tourmalines, peridots, topaz, yellow and blue sapphires) can be stretched out into a tiara or kept in its original form as a bangle, and was inspired by a plant climber Ganh came across while in Kensington Gardens.

POA, jamesganh.com

COLLECTION Magie Blanche necklace, photography: Ben Hasset @Cartier

Magic Touch Cartier conveys the magic of transforming a precious stone into an exquisite piece of jewellery in its latest collection, Magicien. Conjured up Incantation ring, photography: in the French maison’s Ben Hasset @Cartier workshops by master craftsmen, the collection’s pièce de résistance, the Incantation necklace, comprises meticulously small geometric designs paved with interlacing precious diamonds. The platinum necklace can also be inverted so that the embedded 22.84-carat cushion-shaped Ceylon sapphire can double up as a ring. The real trick, however, may well lie in overlooking the sixfigure price tags.

Magicien collection, POA, 143-144 Sloane Street, SW1X, cartier.co.uk Quetzal bracelet, photography: Vincent Wulveryck ©Cartier

Let There Be Light It’s hard to believe that this year marks the first time that William & Son has launched a bridal jewellery collection. But then again, it is also amazing to think that the company is only 17 years old, considering its parent brand Asprey was founded in 1781. Under the direction of head jewellery designer Clémence Devaux, the range has taken four years to create, but after seeing it unveiled at the launch at Claridge’s, it was certainly worth the wait. The simple and elegant line comprises three classic diamond shapes – a threecarat cushion-cut, two carat pear-cut and a one-carat brilliant-cut – along with a pendant and stud earrings.

From £3,000 to £90,000, williamandson.com

Mikimoto Akoya cultured pearl necklace, 2010, ©Mikimoto

Mikimoto Akoya and South Sea White and Golden cultured pearl necklace with diamonds, 2011, ©Mikimoto

Pearls of Wisdom The pearl necklace has evolved throughout the centuries, but its relevance in the world of fine jewellery has never waned as women continue to covet this rare and precious item. Jewellery historian Vivienne Becker explores its ongoing legacy in jewellery, fashion and art in her latest book and explains why the pearl necklace has always been an essential part of a woman’s wardrobe, whether she be a Hollywood starlet or a Renaissance queen.

The Pearl Necklace, £55, Assouline, 196A Piccadilly, W1J, assouline.com

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Golden

TOUCH

olivia sharpe meets talented Italian jeweller Marco Bicego, who in 15 years has struck gold with his award-winning jewellery brand

Fortune favours the brave, as the famous proverb goes; and when applied to Marco Bicego, never was a truer word spoken. In just over 15 years, the Italian jeweller has created a brand that both embraces and flouts his goldsmithing heritage – thereby creating something that is truly unique and modern.

Having grown up in Trissino – a small commune in Vicenza, northern Italy, famed for its rich culture and tradition of goldsmithing – and being the son of an artisan, one might say Bicego was destined to become a jeweller.

However, he would argue that his career path came about organically, having only decided upon this vocation after leaving school. “My family, being Italian, liked to think that I would take over the business, but they never pushed me,” he says. “I spent a lot of time on the bench as a child learning, absorbing and one day I realised I was passionate about it, but I never thought my future would be in design.” And to this day, Bicego has surprisingly never had any formal training as a jewellery designer.

The education he received in his father’s workshop – which specialised in making gold chains –

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was undoubtedly invaluable. Bicego proudly advertises how all of his pieces incorporate 18-karat gold and are handcrafted in Italy. The company headquarters in Vicenza very much encapsulates the brand’s identity. Within this modern building, dubbed ‘Made in Bicego’, 70 artisans – each of whom has been trained in the ‘bulino’ handetching technique that was passed down to Bicego by his father – work tirelessly to reinterpret this ancient craft into the jeweller’s contemporary, innovative designs.

Based in Italy, the eponymous founder is rarely in London, but I fortunately caught up with him on one of his flying visits here to talk through his latest collection: Masai. Travel has always been a huge source of inspiration for Bicego and this collection is no different, having been rooted in the legacy of Africa’s Masai people. By reinterpreting the tribal culture’s traditional spiral jewellery into contemporary yellow and white gold pieces – featuring multiple rows of golden coils interspersed with diamonds – the jeweller has seamlessly bridged the gap between the old and the new. For Bicego, while he has always preferred modern design, he believes it is vitally important to “look to the past in order to see the future”.

Incorporating his love of nature, the use of organic shapes and gemstones gives the jewels an easy-to-wear and versatile quality, in spite of their size. This collection, like all of Bicego’s to date, has been designed to be worn from day to night. “Women today, they play with jewellery, they mix and match, and this is the whole concept of Marco Bicego,” he explains. “It’s everyday jewellery that can be worn for different occasions. It can be casual, or it can be dressy. It’s up to you.”

Bicego relies on his intuition at all times when coming up with new ideas. “I definitely use my instinct.

I consider what the consumer wants, what they like and don’t like. At the end of the day, for every design I produce, I need to understand who will appreciate and buy it.” Having spent many years travelling the globe, the jeweller has immersed himself in different cultures and so prides himself on having an open-minded approach, not to mention a strong grasp of what his female customer is looking for and the emotional process involved in choosing a piece of jewellery.

“When I go shopping, I tend to buy nothing. I have everything I need, but if you find something different, something unique and you hear yourself saying, ‘I have to have it’, then this is when you should buy.” In today’s technology-driven world whereby information can be accessed at the click of a button, Bicego notes how

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modern consumers want to know every detail about a product’s origins before they commit. “It’s like with a fine wine,” he explains. “It’s not just a bottle of wine, especially if it’s expensive. You need to know which kind of bottle, the history of the producer, the grape, and so on.”

With a firm hand on all aspects of the company, from design and production to distribution and marketing, Bicego is both creatively and commerciallyminded. This is no doubt why his jewellery brand has had so much success, having now expanded into more than 40 countries. While the US is currently its strongest market, he believes that Marco Bicego is the perfect fit for the UK customer.

He therefore hopes one day to open a store in London, but this is not something he would rush into as he would have to find “the right spot, right location, and the right investment”. Rather than joining the ranks of Harry Winston and Graff on New Bond Street, the jeweller would rather opt for a more discreet and inconspicuous location, but one which still has footfall. Creating fine jewellery that is well-made but accessible is a great challenge in this day and age, but one which Bicego has certainly mastered.

In person, Bicego comes across as quiet and unassuming and yet, his passion (not to mention charm) is very much evident when he discusses his business.

He confides how it is always his aim to create something different. This was highlighted in his Materica collection, unveiled at this year’s Baselworld (the prestigious annual watch and jewellery convention). Quite a departure from his collections to date, Bicego had fallen in love with some fossilised stones he unearthed on one of his trips and decided to incorporate them into this experimental capsule range. While it received mixed reviews, Bicego insists that he would rather take that risk than not at all.

The jeweller describes one’s head as being “like a basket” in the way that it is constantly coming up with new ideas, but the good ones are rare so he is always keeping his eyes open for new sources of inspiration.

Along with creating more high-end, bespoke jewellery pieces, he would love to open a restaurant in his hometown of Vicenza one day (food being his other great passion), but he is currently in the process of persuading his wife about the value of his idea. Like his covetable jewellery pieces, I am certain it is pure gold.

Masai collection, from £750 – £25,000, marcobicego.com

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WORLD

of WATCHES

BY RICHARD BROWN

Space Age Launched in 2004, Harry Winston’s Project Z aimed to elevate the humble sports watch into the realms of haute horology. Its mission, the brand said, would be achieved by matching groundbreaking mechanics with next-generation materials. To that end, the project’s 10th iteration, the Z10, sports a double retrograde display in an ultra-lightweight case composed entirely of Zalium – an extremely corrosion-resistant alloy of aluminium and zirconium trademarked by Harry Winston. The Z10’s openwork dial is inspired by the Manhattan Bridge.

Days of the week are displayed at 4 o’clock and seconds, on a scale of 0 to 30, are shown at 8 o’clock.

Hands travel 120 degrees before automatically jumping back to resume their operation. Only 300 examples will be produced.

Z10, £16,800, harrywinston.com

Scene Stealer IWC has launched a limited-edition timepiece in celebration of its partnership with the British Film Institute. As the BFI London Film Festival celebrates its 60th anniversary – IWC has served as the event’s official time partner since 2014 – the watchmaker presents a customised version of its Spitfire Chronograph. Engraved with ‘BFI Film Forever’ on its caseback, the stainless steel chronograph features an in-house movement alongside a flyback function and is available in the brand’s London boutique. This year, the IWC-BFI partnership extends to a £50,000 bursary, which will be awarded to a UK-based writer/director who has a feature-length fiction film premiering in the Official Selection of the festival. £7,950, IWC, 138 New Bond Street, W1S, iwc.com

Investment Management

Mass Market Appeal

To coincide with its 20th anniversary, Mayfair’s The Watch Club has launched a brand new website, which showcases more than 250 of the company’s rarest and most desirable watches, many presented to the public for the first time in 20 years. Highlights include an extremely sought after 16520 Zenith-powered Rolex Daytona, bearing one of the finest Patrizzi dials ever to come to market. The brown colour on the subdials (seen here) has developed over time, the result of a chemical reaction in the Zapon varnish then used by Rolex. Find your latest investment online now.

Royal Arcade, 28 Old Bond Street, W1S watchclub.com

It’s been a busy old year for TAG Heuer’s marketing team. First, it masterminded sponsorship of the Virgin Money London Marathon; then it partnered the world’s most followed football league by becoming the official timing partner for the Premier League; then came the news that Manchester United would also be running on TAG Heuer time as of this season. And now this summer, the brand sidestepped from football into Formula One to launch a limited-edition timepiece with Red Bull wunderkind Max Verstappen. From motorsport to music, the brand recently went partying with DJ deities David Guetta and Martin Garrix when it launched a watch in The White Isle. What next for TAG Heuer’s ever industrious marketing department? Perhaps a much-needed holiday. tagheuer.co.uk

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spotlight

STEPPING STONES London may be a breeding ground for unrivalled venues and tourist attractions, but even in this thriving city it can be hard to come by new and exciting places. This month, from the authors of Unseen London, comes London Uncovered – Sixty Unusual Places to Explore. Award-winning photographer Peter Dazeley reveals some of the capital’s most intriguing locations – from the Charles Dickens Museum in Holborn to Smithfield Market – along with other spots that can be found right on our doorstep, such as Leighton House and The Gate Cinema. Narrator Mark Daly uncovers the history of each place, making this tome perfect for those of you looking to escape the mainstream tourist scene this autumn.

Available from 6 October, £30, Francis Lincoln publishers Page 74, The Ivy Photography: Peter Dazeley

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Illustration: Mai Osawa

Images courtesy of: Quentin Blake, 1999

LOCAL LIFE

Surf’s Up Those looking to entertain youngsters this October won’t want to miss GaGa Theatre Company’s adaptation of Quentin Blake’s Mrs Armitage and The Big Wave, which will be on show at venues across the capital, including the Royal Albert Hall and The Tabernacle in Notting Hill. The first adaptation of Blake’s beloved picture book will feature original compositions from the music maestro Julian Butler, the genius behind the Charlie and Lola stage productions, as well as authentic illustrations taken from the book. Suitable for children aged two to eight, this production will inspire young minds to engage with stories and think with creativity, foundations on which the GaGa Theatre Company was created.

From £10, 5-30 October, gagatheatre.co.uk

Photography: Kensington Roof Gardens

Garden Party

This October, Kensington Roof Gardens is hosting a variety of events to ease the transition between glowing summer evenings and chilly autumn nights. To celebrate Winnie the Pooh’s 90th anniversary, guests will be able to enjoy the Pooh Bear cocktail, an eclectic tipple of Krupnik honey liqueur, lemon, honey from the club’s very own beehive, and pear and apple juice. Live musical acts will also perform every Friday and Saturday throughout the month and, come Halloween, guests will be able to enjoy the annual Spooktacular ball, where established artists will perform late into the night. Ghosts and ghouls welcome. Tickets for Spooktacular from £30 per person, 28-29 October, Kensington High Street, W8, roofgardens.virgin.com

spotlight on the royal borough of Kensington & Chelsea: news, events, reviews & local interest stories

Good Nature

Clockwise from right: Olympics Usain Bolt

by B Butcher, pigment print on 100% cotton archival paper, 50 x 40cm; Albert Hall by O Brown, oil on canvas, 40 x 30cm; The City by C Soete, acrylic on canvas, 80 x 80cm

The world-renowned Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition is back at The Natural History Museum, showcasing some of the finest nature photography.

With a 100-strong collection of striking images, each masterpiece tells a story of diversity and the crucial role that humankind has in protecting the planet. This year’s competition was as popular as ever, with almost 50,000 entries from amateur and professional photographers across 95 countries. The works were judged by internationally acclaimed experts seeking to find creativity, originality and technical excellence. £15, 21 October – Summer 2017, The Natural History Museum, nhm.ac.uk Photography: ©Willem Kruger

On the Move Kicking off the autumn season, The Art Movement is hosting a series of fascinating tours and discussions as part of the gallery’s AM Adventures series, launched in September for clients and friends.

The gallery will also be exhibiting at the Affordable Art Fair, Battersea (20-23 October), showcasing a number of its top artists, including B Butcher, G Catlow and Sam Toft. Far from slowing down in the run-up to Christmas, November will see A Petritoli’s much-anticipated solo show unveiled and visitors will be able to meet the artist himself at his talk on 4 November. Finally, from the end of November until 24 December, The Art Movement will celebrate the start of the festive period with a mixed show of gallery artists. What more could you possibly ask for?

For more information, visit: art-movement.com

To Market, To Market With the onset of autumn – and the guaranteed commencement of shorter days and grey skies – it can become increasingly difficult to get oneself up and moving. Fortunately, International Coffee Day takes place on 1 October to help kick-start us into gear for the long winter ahead. The annual event promotes the importance of fair trade and pays tribute to the coffee growers who harvest the most piquant beans. Motcomb Street will be hosting a week-long celebration, for which The Good Life Eatery, Rococo Chocolates and The Fine Cheese Company will offer discounted cups of coffee, activities, tastings and coffee-inspired menus.

Meanwhile, Kinnerton Street will showcase some of the area’s eateries and shops on the same day at its very own market. Foodies will enjoy stalls

by Neigh Ltd., Hush Hush Chefs and Mosimann’s, while health fanatics should head to Grace Belgravia’s stand and shopping addicts to those

by Pom Pom Poodle, Alphabet Jigsaws, Origami Cards and Burrwood Boards. A Coffee Lover Occasion, 26 September – 1 October, Motcomb Street; Kinnerton Street Market, I October

Fine Art Returning for a second exhibition at the Wilson Stephens & Jones gallery is Fieroza Doorsen, a former Chelsea School of Art student. Doorsen’s South African and Indian roots are evident in her work through her experimentation with shapes and calligraphy. Her expressive use of colour includes blocks of red and black, with the occasional highlight of blues, greens, pinks and yellows, which are presented using a variety of materials such as oil, charcoal, ink, gouache and pastels.

19 October – 12 November, 71 Westbourne Park Road, W2, wilsonstephensandjones.com

Works on Paper by Fieroza Doorsen, from £1,350

covering kensington, chelsea, knightsbridge, holland park & notting hill

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&

ART ANTIQUES

BY REBECCA WALLERSTEINER

The Art of Botany From 20 October, the Jonathan Cooper Gallery in Chelsea will come alive with a solo exhibition of striking botanical paintings by Fiona Strickland. Painting in watercolour, the artist seeks to surprise the viewer by depicting flowers, particularly tulips, from an unusual viewpoint, or at turning points in their life cycle.

Jonathan Cooper comments: “Although botanically accurate, her paintings move beyond pure scientific representation, and are inspired by an emotive and artistic response, making each work a portrait that vividly captures the spirit of her subject.” A graduate of the Edinburgh College of Art, Strickland draws inspiration from the Dutch Golden Age and flowers growing in her garden, in Scotland.

The Vital Moment, a solo exhibition by Fiona Strickland, 20 October – 12 November, 20 Park Walk, SW10, jonathancooper.co.uk Clockwise from left: Estella Rijnveld watercolour on Fabriano Artistico, 25 x 20.75ins; Rococo watercolour on Fabriano Artistico, 25.5 x 20.75ins; Parrot Tulip, Rococo watercolour on Fabriano Artistico, 27 x 21in; Autumn, Torwood watercolour Fabriano Artistico, 19.25 x 27ins; all by Fiona Strickland

Image courtesy of: Vlasta Žáková, In the Black Forest, ©2016, Lacey Contemporary Gallery

Mamma Mia Expect an interesting crowd at Lacey Contemporary Gallery in Holland Park when a mixed group show – featuring Slovak female artists Vlasta Žáková, Jarmila Sabová, Barbara Kubániová and Lucia Dovicáková – is unveiled on 4 October. Each artist delves into the mystery and challenges of pregnancy and motherhood, tackling the subjects in different ways.

Kubániová will present her surrealist photographic studies hinting at the growing baby cocooned within the mother; Žáková will show her subtle textile compositions imbued with a quiet lyricism, and Dovicáková will unveil her striking portraits of women’s faces twisted with emotion.

In Different State, 4-15 October laceycontemporarygallery.co.uk

Artist of the

month

Jennifer McRae RSA

Season’s Greetings Great excitement will fill the Serpentine Gallery when An Autumn Lexicon – a retrospective of Marc Camille Chaimowicz – commences on 29 September. Recognised as one of the first artists to experiment with installation and performance art, Chaimowicz’s work is becoming increasingly popular with younger generations. The show brings together his most recent work, such as a large-scale mural painted in 2008, alongside selected works over the past 40 years, including the restaging of his pioneering immersive light sculpture, Enough Tiranny. serpentinegalleries.org

The Art Movement, C. Preston, Origin, Affordable Art Fair, Battersea

Clockwise from top: Irises Moving; Wild Exotic Orchids; Billowing; all by Jennifer McRae RSA, images courtesy of: the Thackeray Gallery, 2016

In the Open Air Until 30 September, the Thackeray Gallery in Kensington will show Hinterland, an exhibition of portraits, interiors and still life created over the past two years by Royal Scottish Academician, Jennifer McRae. “As a painter, the freedom to create one’s own private world is an extremely privileged experience. A possible escapism, but the totems are from reality, the observation in real time portraying experiences and contemporary places travelled to,” says McRae. The artist’s inspiration came from a fascination with youth, its secrecy, optimism and mystique. “The flower paintings grew as a need for a complex object to observe at the opposite polarity from the sitters,” she adds. She is rarely happier than when travelling, working en plein air, in watercolours, employing an incredible number of minuscule brushes necessary to capture details Particularly renowned for her portraits, in May 2014 McRae’s enigmatic painting, Duncan in Conversation, won the Ondaatje Gold Medal from the Royal Society of Portrait Painters. Other successes include portraits of Dame Judi Dench, Sir Chris Hoy, Michael Frayn and Barones Rebuck. This year, the Thackeray Gallery celebrates 10 years of representing McRae. 18 Thackeray Street, Kensington Square, W8, thackeraygallery.com

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Bright and Bold This month, more than 1,000 artists working in a variety of media – including painting, photography, sculpture, ceramics and prints – will present their work at the Affordable Art Fair in Battersea. These include Jann Haworth – co-creator of the iconic Beatles’ Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band album cover – and Ben Eine, a well-known street artist who has worked with Banksy and was commissioned by former Prime Minister David Cameron to create a gift for Barack Obama. Take home a beautiful print, drawing, sculpture or handmade vessel knowing that you are helping to support artists, as well as acquiring a unique piece of art. Visitors will have the opportunity to develop their own artistic stills by taking part in a series of interactive workshops and talks.

Affordable Art Fair, Battersea Park, Charity Private View, Wednesday 19 October, affordableartfair.co.uk Getting The Fuck Out Of Dodge by Oddly Head, Affordable Art Fair, Battersea

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ART

Brass wall sconces by Barbi, 1960s, Italian

The Great Wall of China From 4 October, at his Knightsbridge gallery, Michael Goedhuis will spotlight ink paintings by contemporary Chinese artists, including Wei Ligang, Yao Jui-chung, Li Xubai, Wang Dongling and Qin Feng, whose work at first sight looks traditional, but embodies powerful, fresh aesthetic initiatives. “China is currently undergoing a true ‘Cultural Revolution’, which is not confined to art, but also in film, music, theatre, dance and literature, leading to a rapid expansion of investment in art by a new generation of collectors. Chinese ink artists represent an important link between China’s great past and the galloping pace towards her future and are very under-valued,” says Goedhuis, who has acquired a reputation for promoting the best Chinese art, with clients ranging from owners of palaces and private homes to museums.

East Meets West: China Re-imagined, 4 October – 30 December, at Michael Goedhuis, Flat 3, 61 Cadogan Square, SW1X, michaelgoedhuis.com Image courtesy of: Michael Goedhuis

Black lacquer coffee table painted with a gilded lily pad & dragonfly, 1960s, French

Decoration Game Put a date in your diary for The Decorative Antiques & Textiles Fair, from 27 September. A special foyer show, Scandi Days and Nordic Nights, will reflect how Norse folk furniture can blend elegantly with the sleek lines of midcentury Scandinavian design to create a thoroughly modern look. More than 160 specialist dealers will bring a vast array of furnishings and decorative items. This autumn’s fair welcomes Rupert Cavendish Antiques presenting Biedermeier furniture and Fine & Vintage (Portobello), specialists in vintage trunks, among many others. Anybody wanting to add a touch of the country to their home will find exceptional furniture, textiles, clocks, paintings, screens, and ceramics – some created by well-known artists. You might even bump into Nicky Haslam, who is a regular visitor.

The Decorative Antiques & Textiles Fair, 27 September – 2 October, Battersea Park. Tickets: £10 (includes catalogue), which gives re-admission, and Megan’s Brasserie and Champagne Bar provides a place to meet; decorativefair.com Photography: ©2016, courtesy of Gallery 286

Photography: The Decorative Art Fair, Battersea

Blowing in the Wind Gallery 286 will be showing new paintings by artist and musician Mark Fry, who returns following an exhibition in 2013, which was warmly received.

“Contemplative and dreamlike, Fry’s pictures imprint themselves on the retina and stay there in the same way as songs stay in the mind. Lines are traced lightly, but surely, connecting circles suspended in ethereal harmony,” comments Jonathan Ross, the gallery’s director. Normandy-based, Fry works with Conté crayons, coloured pencils and cold gesso to gradually build up complex surfaces on thick paper. The artist’s eclectic inspirations range from musical notations and brass rubbings to architectural drawings.

Mark Fry; New Paintings at Gallery 286, 6-29 October, 286 Earls Court Road, SW5, markfry.co.uk

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Brass peacock sculpture by Curtis Jere, c1960s, USA

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spotlight

Paint the Town Knight Frank celebrates Notting Hill’s thriving art scene with a private view of the latest works by local artist Barney McMahon Those who have passed by the abstract

Comet1 by Barney McMahon

mural next door to Notting Hill Gate’s Marks & Spencer and pondered the source of the colourful fresco need ponder no more. This November, the spotlight will shine on the work’s artist, Barney McMahon, with an exhibition at the Roman Catholic Church of St. Mary of the Angels, sponsored by Knight Frank LLP. McMahon’s proficiency with a paintbrush has resulted in many a mural crop up across the capital, but his most notable is undoubtedly the Notting Hill Gate design, which has been brightening up the area since 1997 when the artist won a competition hosted by the Notting Hill Improvement Committee. It captures the area’s diverse mix of cultures, people and sites, and has become something of a landmark for locals. Since then McMahon has been busy with a number of commissions, including a second mural on Kensington Church Street, record sleeves, works for interior spaces and storyboards for commercials.

Now, the artist will showcase his latest paintings and prints at the Bayswater church with a two-day exhibition, which has been sponsored by Knight Frank in its ongoing bid to support local talent.

“As a well-established and deeply rooted agency in Notting Hill, Knight Frank is dedicated in doing what it can to support the local community,” Caroline Foord, head of Knight Frank’s Westbourne Grove branch, says.

“Along with other community events, the local art scene is something Knight Frank feels passionately about and we are very proud to be sponsoring McMahon’s exhibition,” she continues. “Some of the artist’s work can be seen on a daily basis up on Notting Hill Gate and many of our clients and contacts have commissioned his work. It is important for us to help young artistic talent to nurture and grow.”

The event will be held in the church’s Parish House Community Room, where McMahon’s quirky paintings will bring a splash of colour to the neighbourhood. Don’t miss it.

19-20 November, 11am-5pm, The Parish House Community Room, Roman Catholic Church of St Mary of the Angels, Moorhouse Road, Bayswater, W2, knightfrank.com

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Shine

a Light

Rebecca Wallersteiner meets Andrew Molyneux and Harry Triggs, founders of TM Lighting, a company that specialises in creating supreme lighting for one’s artwork Before the dayS of electricity, artists like William Turner had to go to laborious lengths in order to bring light to their masterpieces. If only they had known then about the transformative power of LED lighting, it undoubtedly would have saved them a lot of trouble.

One company that has made it its life’s mission to transform works of art in the 21st century is TM Lighting.

Set up by founders Andrew Molyneux and Harry Triggs in 2012, they’ve spent the past four years making a name for themselves by illuminating art in homes, galleries, hotels, and retail outlets around the world.

The two met while studying at Brunel University and reunited years later due to their shared passion for art, lighting and a desire to innovate. “Using the latest

technology, we set about reinventing the classic picture light to achieve museum-quality lighting in the home,” explains Triggs. Early projects involved lighting Conrad Shawcross’ exhibition at the National Gallery in 2012 and The Memorial of Lord Darnley portrait at Goodwood House.

Much like designing a home’s interior, lighting artworks needs to be overseen by somebody who can guide the collector. “When you light a picture, it brings it out and you can see it properly. You want the eye to register the painting before you realise that it is lit by highlighting the detail and the true colour,” explains Molyneux.

You can choose to brighten a single picture and let the light spill onto others or project a pool of light onto a group of artworks. Before buying a bulb, it is important to consider the depth and warmth of colour that the light emits, as too warm can cast a yellow glow on the artwork and blue can be too cold, explains Molyneux.

“We use full spectrum, high colour rendition light, which is made up of all the colours of the rainbow and allows items such as sofas and clothing, as well as sculptures and paintings, to be appreciated in their fully glory,” he adds.

Unlike 1970s picture lights, TM Lighting LEDs don’t emit damaging heat, UV or infrared. To create a pleasant, warm glow, you should find a bulb that has a CRI of more than 95 and a warmth of 2,700 Kelvin. As well as advising clients about their art, the pair also advise on reducing energy bills, while complying with legislation.

Challenging commissions are a day-to-day occurrence for their company, TM Lighting. Since it began, it has clocked up an impressive list of projects.

The duo’s latest commission – providing expertise at key venues across the London Design Festival this September – includes lighting Foil, a mesmerising installation created by British designer Benjamin Hubert for the V&A; illuminating an exhibition of chairs curated

by Tim Gosling at Decorex International, and delivering a Masterclass at Focus/16.

Whether working at art fairs, hotels, or with individuals, Molyneux and Triggs make the process a personal one.

spotlight

This page, clockwise from top: Taxidermy lit by TM Lighting at New Masters exhibition by Darwin, Sinke & van Tongeren at Jamb showroom, Chelsea; Waddesdon Manor, photography: Mike Fear, ©The National Trust; Goodwood House, Hound Lodge, interior designer: Cindy Leveson; Apsley House; Kensington private residence Opposite page: Andrew Molyneux and Harry Triggs, founders of TM Lighting, Apsley House. Photography: Carol Sachs

“Name an artist and we have most likely lit a work by them,” boasts Triggs. At The Beaumont Hotel, the experts recently partnered with Sir Antony Gormley on his sculpture, ROOM, located on the hotel’s roof. They also worked with Damien Hirst to create suitable lighting for his and Mark Hix’s restaurant, Pharmacy 2, at Newport Street Gallery.

A slightly more unusual commission was illuminating a taxidermy showcase for Sinke & van Tongeren at Chelsea’s Jamb showroom. The experts worked closely to create a scheme that captured individual works, including a ferocious adult tiger baring its teeth. By using a variance in colour temperature, the warmth and crispness that was created brought this magnificent animal to life.

The two excel at creating warmly lit environments in which they themselves would want to live, including grander houses, such as Dunvegan Castle in Scotland and Burghley House in Lincolnshire. There, they installed a range of specialist lights, aimed at darker, older, pieces, including floor-to-ceiling murals. In their first year of business, their innovative picture light was highly recommended in the 2013 Lighting Design Awards.

Pictures are the first items I typically notice when entering a home – but before meeting Molyneux and Triggs, I hadn’t thought much about how they were lit. “Very often clients want to learn and are astonished at the difference our lighting can make,” says Molyneux. I nod, trying to forget the poorly lit pictures covering the walls in my flat.

TM Lighting, 020 7278 1600, tmlighting.com

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Relax from

top to bottom

0800 1699 755 customerservice@cyberjammies.co.uk

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fashion

Lady of the lake Universally bohemian in style, Missoni’s A/W16 campaign juxtaposes colourful contemporary designs with a rugged, natural landscape. In the campaign shot by 27-year-old London-based photographer Harley Weir, models Frederikke Sofie and Clément Chabernaud pose on chairs in the waters of Italy’s Segrino and Alserio lakes, located in the province of Como. The pair sport Missoni’s latest collection, which blends the fashion house’s signature vertical stripes and zigzag prints in a range of multicoloured scarves, cardigans, jackets and overcoats – all key autumn essentials.

From £380, 193 Sloane Street, SW1X, missoni.com

Photography: Harley Weir

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Photography: Mario Testino

The New Classic Photographer Mario Testino captures an all-new British cast – including Lady Jean Campbell, Alex Dragulele and musician Cavan McCarthy – for the A/W16 Burberry campaign. The fashion through the ages-inspired shoot draws influence from British author Virginia Woolf’s classic novel Orlando, exploring the contrasting masculine and feminine styles across historical periods. The campaign launches in its entirety after Burberry’s inaugural London Fashion Week show, and coincides with the collection’s immediate availability for purchase in retail stores and online. burberry.com

Work of Art With an innate understanding of fabric and its applications, Australian designer Toni Matičevski is the king of sculptural masterpieces, juxtaposing structure and fluidity in his designs. His A/W16 collection offers a diverse range of styles, where gauze-like knits and embossed jacquards contrast with rigid fabrics in shades of deep plum, dusky browns, ivory and soft lavender.

From £420, tonimaticevski.com

Photography: Jordan Graham

HER STYLE By lauren stevens

Pick ‘n’ Mix Take your pick from Jimmy Choo’s irresistible Cruise ‘17 collection, which was inspired by the idea of a child’s excitement when let loose in a sweet shop. Creative director Sandra Choi’s tempting range of eccentric yet elegant designs include bejewelled and fur pom-pom styles, along with suede and metallic variations of the brand’s reclaimed platform heels. This season, customers are invited to decorate their chosen shoes with Swarovski crystals. How could you possibly resist?

Available from 27 October, from £595, 32 Sloane Street, SW1X, jimmychoo.com

Life of the Party

Happy Go Lucky

Supermodel Małgosia Bela is getting the party started this season in Zadig & Voltaire’s A/W16 campaign, which has been shot in a 1970s-inspired Parisian apartment. Characterised by strong prints and a vibrant autumn colour palette, the line follows the most popular trends, including sporty chic, rich knits and intricate detailing – offering bold styles that will work for both day and night. From £75, 182 Westbourne Grove, W11, zadig-et-voltaire.com

Patchwork is something to be cherished, whether it’s your favourite blanket knitted by your grandmother – or your latest Chloé bag. The label’s Drew and Faye styles have been redesigned in a unique array of patchwork prints in an exclusive capsule collection for Harrods. Each bag in this 24-piece line has been named after the different attitudes of the Chloé girl – such as Happy, designed using warm yellow tones and a play on the smiley face motif. Visitors to Harrods’ exclusive Chloé pop-up will also be able to personalise their bags with the label’s alphabet charms and jewellery range, but hurry – we expect the range will sell out very soon.

From £1,545, until 27 September, available at Harrods

Flight of Fancy An afternoon spent online searching for inspiration is what led to Aspinal of London’s creative director, Mariya Dykalo, seeking the help of graphic artist Emma J Shipley for her latest collection. Drawing on Aspinal’s iconic feather symbol, Shipley created a mythological Pegasus figure to adorn a selection of the brand’s handbags and accessories, including the midi and mini Marylebone designs, as well as silk, twill and cashmere blend scarves.

From £95, aspinaloflondon.com

Tight Bond Having attracted attention from the likes of Beyoncé and Lady Gaga, it is clear that Zana Bayne’s unique designs have a strong feminine appeal, despite their masculine edge. Her recent collaboration with & Other Stories presents some of her signature leather pieces and accessories, including harnesses and bustiers (designed to be worn over everyday staples for a bold and daring look). & Other Stories has also created a ready-to-wear range, comprising a classic coat and a selection of clean-cut shirts and dresses.

From a selection, stories.com Photography: Boe Marion

The Perfect Fit

Image courtesy of: Oliver Peoples

After a five year search, Oliver Peoples has finally settled on Sloane Street as the perfect location to house its first ever European store. Architect Marmol Radziner has embodied the eyewear brand’s signature aesthetic in the store’s design, which features textured oak flooring with teak and leather original pieces – blending contemporary urban living with luxurious finishes. Seasonal and exclusive collaborative collections are available to purchase, along with custom frames and Oliver Peoples’ original vintage styles.

From £210, 151 Sloane Street, SW1X, oliverpeoples.com

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Coat, £1,401; Skirt, £279, both Simone Rocha, net-a-porter.com; Boots, £1,040, Jérôme Dreyfuss, 20-22 Berkeley Square, W1J

Gone with the wind Breeze into the new season with the latest chunky knits, oversized coats and polo necks that will keep you warm when the temperature dips Photographer: William Garrett

Stylist: Anat Dychtwald

Above / Jumper, £207, Pinko, pinko.com; Trousers, DVF, £225, selfridges.com; Coat, POA; Shoes, POA, both Marni, marni.com Left / Turtleneck jumper, £330, BOSS, hugoboss.com; Sleeveless jumper, £595; Trousers, £470; Shoes, POA, all Stella McCartney, stellamccartney.com; Scarf, £79, COS, cosstores.com

Above / Coat, £1,320, David Koma, davidkoma.co.uk; Turtleneck jumper, £330, BOSS, as before; Jumper, £165, Pinko, as before Right / Cardigan, £445, Zadig & Voltaire, 182 Westbourne Grove, W11; Turtleneck, £810; Trousers, £1,175; Shoes, £546, all Ralph Lauren Collection, ralphlauren.co.uk

Model: Maria @ firstmodelmanagement.co.uk Hair: Shukeel Murtaza @ untitledartistsldn.com Make-up: Gia Mills @ untitledartistsldn.com PHOTOGRAPHER’S ASSISTANT: Andrew Goss production: Paper Moon Productions Shot on location at Camber Sands, with special thanks to The Gallivant Hotel, thegallivant.co.uk

23 K EN S I N GTON PAR K ROAD , W 11 2EU S U N S P E L .C O M

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Photography: Peter Lindbergh for Cerruti

In Focus As the photographer who brought Linda Evangelista, Naomi Campbell, Tatjana Patitz, Cindy Crawford and Christy Turlington together for the first time for the iconic January 1990 cover of British Vogue, Peter Lindbergh is certainly a legend within the world of fashion. So it makes sense that he was the man Cerruti 1881 called on for its latest campaign. Starring model Andrés Velencoso, the A/W16 shoot is inspired by the Italian brand’s cinematic heritage and is shot in a studio that uses natural light to allow the clothes to take focus. Velencoso wears Cerruti’s latest collection, which includes woollen suits, sharp coats and brogues.

From a selection, cerruti.com

HIS STYLE

Image courtesy of: Paul Smith

By Ellen Millard

A Road Less Travelled

Out of the Blue The latest fragrance from Versace takes traditional scents and combines them to make a contemporary fragrance that, as Donatella Versace puts it, is the “essence of the Versace man today”. Dylan Blue Pour Homme offers a woody aroma concocted from an extensive list of notes, from citrus and bergamot to grapefruit and fig leaves. Photographer Bruce Weber is at the helm of the campaign, which was inspired by martial arts movies and their leading men. £66 for 100ml, versace.com

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Fresh from the success of his A Suit to Travel In campaign, Paul Smith is launching A Coat to Travel In for A/W16 – a collection of tube-defying outerwear that doesn’t crease, no matter how cramped the Northern line gets. Available in five styles, the 100 per cent wool range is not only wrinkleresistant but shower-resistant, too, so you needn’t be deterred by those inevitable autumn downpours. New designs of the suit version will also be available in light grey, sky blue and navy pinstripe styles.

From £685, 120 Kensington Park Road, W11, paulsmith.co.uk

Image courtesy of: Hackett London

H is for Hackett Taking cues from British heritage, Hackett London’s A/W16 offering is divided into three themes: Tweed Authority (a focus on the label’s signature print); Winter Harbour (a line of knits and parkas inspired by north east England); and A Gentleman’s Wardrobe (a selection of tailored pieces). To complement the collection, a new line of luggage and leather goods is available, decorated with a repeated ‘H’ monogram similar to the label’s logo. Pick up the print on holdalls and laptop bags, as well as smaller accessories including wallets and passport holders. From £180, 137-138 Sloane Street, SW1X, hackett.com

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Visit our showroom Unit 4-5 Zennor Road, Balham London SW12 0PS

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lifestyle

Dream Weaver From influential fashionistas to interior design heavyweights, The Rug Company is unveiling a new line of designs by Vivienne Westwood, Kelly Wearstler and Elie Saab, to name a few, at this year’s Decorex International. Alongside collaborative pieces, you can expect to find new additions to the label’s Studio Collection – a range of bamboo silk and hand-knotted Tibetan wool rugs in a mix of prints. Visitors to The Rug Company’s stand will also be able to watch a behind-the-scenes video of the weaving houses in Nepal, where each rug takes several months to make, using techniques passed down through generations.

Rugs from £1,780, 124 Holland Park Avenue, W11, therugcompany.com

Image courtesy of: Thistle Pewter by Vivienne Westwood for The Rug Company, hand-knotted Tibetan wool & silk, 2.74 x 1.83m, £6,518 or £1,300/m2

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& GARDEN

HOME

BY LAURA DUNHAM

King of the Castle Fans of Polish pottery brand Bunzlau Castle will be delighted to know that Amara is hosting the label’s new A/W16 collection.

The kitchenware is inspired by a popular trend known as Polish Pottery, which began in Poland in the early 1800s when craftsmen began producing brown glazed pottery adorned with delicate white patterns to create centrepieces for the dining table. As if that’s not enough, having served homeware aficionados for 11 years, Amara is also launching its very own collection (pictured here). Expect mohair throws, velvet cushions and crockery in geometric designs.

Amara’s Own Label, from a selection, amara.com

Fashion Forward Combining high fashion and luxury interior design, Roberto Cavalli has launched its new A/W16 collection. The range has been inspired by a winter garden and includes furniture for the dining room, bedroom and living spaces, all crafted in neutral tones and forest green shades, fitting the recognisable Cavalli aesthetic. To complete the collection, there is also an outdoor range of furniture, which is perfect for those looking to add a touch of designer magic to their garden.

From £8,010, 387 King’s Road, SW10, kofc.co.uk

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Luck of the Draw As the capital’s creative types unite for the return of Frieze, The Big Draw, and PAD London, those who are looking to embrace their inner Picasso should look to Linley for art supplies with a difference. In collaboration with Winsor & Newton, the design house has created a handcrafted watercolour compendium and four watercolour, pigment marker, drawing ink and sketching sets presented in beautiful walnut boxes, which have been decorated with illustrations taken from old Winsor & Newton catalogues.

From £250, davidlinley.com

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Image courtesy of: Ian Mankin, Ashfield Wool collection

& GARDEN

HOME Come Dine with Me

Pimlico Table, from £3,595

Bespoke furniture maker I & JL Brown has added a contemporary twist to traditional dining this autumn with the Pimlico set. Inspired by antiques, museum pieces and historical documents, the latest range features a beautifully crafted chair and round dining table handmade in Herefordshire. The designs can also be customised in any colour and paired with a wide range of accessories that are available to match the furniture.

From £525, 634-636 King’s Road, SW6, ijlbrown.com

Knit Wits Celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, Ian Mankin has launched its new Ashfield wool collection. The range, which champions British heritage, is not only named after Yorkshire towns and villages, but is also woven in the last remaining mill in Burnley, using Shetland spun wool. The collection includes classic prints such as stripes, checks and plain styles, as well as quirkier patterns such as houndstooth, stylish damask and honeycomb, all of which exude timeless taste and quality.

From £49.50 per metre, 269-271 Wandsworth Bridge Road, SW6, ianmankin.co.uk

The Bright Side: Designed by Light With 15 years experience in the lighting industry, Sian Baxter has become somewhat of an illumination aficionado, having crafted lighting schemes for homes, gardens, hotels and restaurants. Now, her latest venture sees Baxter and her team of specialists venture further into the design world with a collection of decorative lights. Designed by Light was created by Baxter to offer unique fittings that create wonderful effects and can be customised to meet the clients’ specific requirements.

The small range includes beautifully crafted pendants and wall lights that look striking both off and on. Each fitting looks like a work of art and could be the focal point in any room. Some of the products are fabricated by artisans to make them truly unique, with hand-punched metal and individually painted finishes. Every light has bespoke elements, too. “I wanted to introduce more flexibility for clients and that’s why, with all of our products, you can specify what colour you want, what finish and what stem and drop length.”

Designed by Light doesn’t just create lights, but also offers advice to its clients. “One of our customers wanted to hang a cluster of our pendants in a stairwell with a glass roof light above it. We had to devise a bespoke suspension method to enable this. This extra level of service is what sets us apart,” Baxter explains. “We offer broader advice, too, as some clients need help deciding which of our lights will work best in a particular space and in what size, colour or quantity.

We can also bring the lights to our customers so they can see them in-situ.” designedbylight.com

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LIFESTYLE

The Miracle

Makers bethan rees heads to the high street to meet the co-founder of design construction company, End Studio

Marcos De Andres arrives at End Studio on Fulham High Street on his Harley-Davidson motorcycle.

With dark hair and sun-kissed Spanish skin, he brings instant energy to the office and he won’t do anything before he has had his coffee. “If you hear a loud noise around Fulham, it’s 100 per cent me. I go everywhere on my bike, I’m always moving,” he says.

De Andres is one of the four founding partners of End Studio – a design and construction company that can take a project from its initial sketches to the final finished product; a jack of all trades, one could say.

As a RIBA chartered practice, the team is made up of architects and interior designers, all of whom are able to decipher their clients’ needs and collaborate with them to bring their perfect home to life. “We call our method ‘Design Led Construction’. It is very much a client-focused way of carrying out projects from the beginning to the end, from A to Z,” De Andres explains. “We realised a long time ago that in a city like London, many people are time poor so they need one point of contact that can take care of everything. It’s incredibly exciting to buy a house, but the process of turning it in to your home can be very stressful.

Contractors are good at building, but not so much at communication so we decided to create a formula that has the best of both worlds – Design Led Construction.”

End Studio doesn’t only deal with residential clients – it is also behind the successful stories of commercial places, such as the Fulham Osteopathic Care just a few doors down and Park Road Kitchen in Battersea, too.

Hailing from San Sebastián by way of Madrid, De Andres came to the UK 20 years ago to study architecture at the Bartlett School of Architecture before he met Amir Mousawi, Erzsebet Csete and Reda Zakaria to form End

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Studio. “Our process can be seen primarily as a means to an end, which is customer satisfaction – we are very proud of that.” He says that End Studio can guide a client, but he also wants them to be as involved as possible, which means that he would host several workshops with them to find out their key objectives.

“We are like tailors, but instead of looking at your body we are looking at your lifestyle and your circumstances. It’s a very personalised process. Projects take shape little-bylittle based on our conversations with our clients, then the special software we use allows us to show them how these spaces would look. It’s a fantastic tool because it brings their involvement to a different level. It allows us to visualise different alternatives and allows them to make decisions on the spot because they can just see it.”

De Andres explains that it is important to find out even the smallest details of their clients daily rituals. Things that they like and their habits throughout the day, whether at work or at home. “I basically interview them. It’s a very insightful journey. By the end of the process I will know almost as much about them as their own partners,” he laughs.

The atmosphere in the office is playful and efficient and with De Andres leading the workforce, it’s not hard to see why. I ask him what kind of person do you have to be to work at End Studio. “Very professional, which doesn’t mean very serious.” I ask him to elaborate. “We work so hard and such long hours, the atmosphere has to be one you want to be in; we are like a little family.”

But what is the most important thing to De Andres and End Studio? “When you bump into your clients around Fulham, which we do a lot, and they tell you how happy they still are. Nothing beats that!”

15 Fulham High Street, 020 7371 5050, end-studio.com

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promotion

Ahead

of the Game

LG debuts the future of technology with the OLED TV 4K range ‘The box’ was a term coined when televisions resembled clunky pieces of machinery. Thankfully, those days are long gone – as illustrated by the new LG OLED TV (E6). An aesthetically remarkable piece of technology, the device has an ultra slim 2.57mm OLED (organic light-emitting diode) panel that has been bonded to a glass plate, ensuring a super sleek finish.

Unlike most other screens where a backlight dims entire sections, the OLED technology means that each pixel switches on and off independently. This results in crisp viewing for all your favourite high-definition films, with images displayed in the deepest of blacks alongside vivid colours.

This revolutionary television has Ultra HD 4K resolution and supports HDR with Dolby Vision™ to bring incredibly detailed viewing to your living room. The very best colour and contrast reproduction of OLED, coupled with HDR 4K capability, are key factors in the entire 2016 OLED

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range being awarded Ultra HD Premium Certification.

To complement this first-class cinematic picture, the sound quality has also been excellently designed.

A unique, integrated ‘sound bar’ speaker – engineered by the audio experts at harman/kardon – directs sound forward, enhancing the multisensory experience. As consumers continue to customise their viewing schedules more and more, LG’s exclusive smart TV webOS is also included – now featuring All 4 and ITV player.

“By upping our OLED TV game every year, we are driving innovation in the TV space so that more consumers will see and hear about the benefits of owning an OLED TV,” remarks Brian Kwon, president and CEO at LG’s Home Entertainment Company.

It appears that LG’s TV will be a game changer for years to come. To experience the best in TV home cinema viewing look no further than the LG OLED TV 4K range. lg.com

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A BRITISH

Trailblazer Smallbone of Devizes has established itself as global leader in luxury bespoke fitted cabinetry. Anna Thornhill speaks to creative director Andrew Hays, who reflects on how the brand has stayed ahead of the curve with its traditional craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology

The ultimate office accessory: The new handcrafted Smallbone desk inspired by the quoined detail of London Georgian architecture. The solid walnut, crown-cut veneered surfaces are finished with a soft-touch lacquer

lifestyle

Left: Creative & brand director Andrew Hays; Below: The Smallbone brasserie kitchen has undergone an urban makeover, characterised by design features redolent of horizontal scaffold planks and attractive timber chosen for its knots and individual variations

hen it comes to making your mark on the luxury industry, heritage plays an invaluable role, as bespoke cabinetry maker Smallbone of Devizes knows all too well. Since launching its workshop in a rural Wiltshire market town almost four decades ago, the brand has gone from reconditioning Georgian furniture to creating custom-made, exceptionally crafted pieces that are sought after around the world.

“We’ve got four generations of the same family handmaking furniture in our workshop in Devizes. Every single piece of cabinetry is inscribed with the name of the person who made it,” says creative director Andrew Hays. “Our furniture might end up in £120m penthouse apartments in New York overlooking Central Park, but everything is locally handmade in Wiltshire.”

Smallbone made a name for itself in the ’80s. At a time when the market was flooded with engineered modular furniture, its handmade approach celebrated the human touch. Its game changing concept – the unfitted kitchen – proved to be one of the most important kitchen designs of modern times, paving the way for the open-plan style that is now so ubiquitous.

Today, Smallbone boasts one of the most experienced research and development teams in the world, which ensures an artisanal yet forward-thinking approach. This means that the brand has never shied away from the latest technological and ergonomic advances. Whether you’re after a concealed technology drawer in your kitchen, or a wine wall system that can be monitored from your phone, nothing is out of reach.

Perhaps the greatest example of technology seamlessly integrated with tradition is visible in the new handcrafted desk. Inspired by the quoined details of London’s Georgian architecture, the desk is a triumph for the Smallbone joiners; it took three craftsmen an

entire month to perfect its distinctive curves, intricate scalloped detailing and bevelled edges. On the surface, the solid, walnut, crown-cut veneer, inlaid with soft leather, is a lesson in British craftsmanship, but on the inside, concealed privacy drawers and a mobile phone-operated locking system give the piece a contemporary edge.

Bespoke service is at the heart of the Smallbone ethos and each commission is the result of close collaboration between the designer and client. This personal nature is reflected in the workshop itself. It’s a set-up that Hays likens to being in your dad’s shed. “Each master craftsman’s space has its own individuality and personality with their equipment and tools as you move through the space. It’s quite nostalgic, with the smell of timber being worked on hanging in the air,” he reflects.

“We collaborate with architects, developers and clients all over the world, but no matter where my work takes me, I always look forward to returning to the workshop in Devizes. It brings you back down to earth.”

6-7 Thurloe Place, Knightsbridge, SW7, 020 7589 5998, smallbone.co.uk

Above: Groundbreaking new wine system from Smallbone, incorporating the renowned Wine Guardian conditioning unit, UV filtering, and invisible grills to circulate the airflow. A beautiful laser-cut leather panel backs the bottles, almond gold-plated racks, a full lighting control system and UV-stable tinted frameless glass with mitred corners

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LIFESTYLE

GardenState DRY Architects has made it its mission to restore a section of Lennox Gardens’ historic elevation to its former glory, completing this project by 2017 Lennox Gardens is at the very heart of historic Knightsbridge and is composed of a variety of five and sixstorey properties overlooking a beautiful private garden. The majority of the properties here are Queen Anne style with Flemish detailing, and are all Grade II-listed, having been highly acclaimed at the time of construction in the mid-19th century for being of outstanding design and style.

This particular property, 27 Lennox Gardens, was originally designed as a single family dwelling, but was converted into flats and a dental surgery in the 1960s. The popular style at the time called for flat roofs and modernist lines, which resulted in it being a poor relation visually to its neighbours.

DRY Architects was commissioned by the owners to seek consent for an additional storey. The building is listed and the roof profile designated Category 1, which normally would preclude any possibility of extending.

Previous applications had also been refused in 1990, making the brief rather daunting.

Over the course of two years, DRY Architects discussed the proposals with the Conservation and Planning Officers at the RBKC Council together with English Heritage. Together, they developed a scheme that returned the principal elevation back to the style and detail of the original and enabled the creation of an additional floor behind a new front gable.

Extensive research was carried out to support the application and while Dry Architects was unable to trace any original drawings, it did discover a photograph taken in the 1920s, which showed the building in its former glory and was subsequently used as a guideline for the firm’s proposals.

Planning and Listed Building Consent was granted in 2014. The additional floor will create an extra 1,000 sq ft of space, making the internal floor area of the two-storey penthouse in excess of 2,450 sq ft. When completed, it will be a large three-bedroom home with a roof terrace. The style of the interior will be modern with luxury finishes. Works have commenced and are due to be completed by Easter in 2017.

DRY Architects has earned a reputation for achieving difficult Planning Applications in central London and can be contacted at: info@dryarchitects.co.uk

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Existing

Proposed

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“THE FRENCH TOUCH IN INTERIOR DESIGN”

Email: e.s@emmanuellesirven.com Tel: +44 (0)7748 098 578

www.emmanuellesirven.com

lifestyle

Scent

heaven

bethan rees takes Charlotte Rhys, a luxurious bath, body and lifestyle range, back to its roots to find out what makes it so special Founded in South Africa in 2000, Charlotte Rhys launched into the luxury fragrance world with just one product; eau de linge (linen water). One of the co-founders, Janet Rhys, had been living abroad before launching the brand; when she returned to South Africa, as Anna Germaine from Charlotte Rhys tells me, “She was shocked to find there were no locally manufactured bath and body products to compete with the leading international luxury brands.”

Rhys teamed up with Shaun McDermott, a highlyexperienced pharmacist and cosmetic chemist, and ‘Charlotte Rhys’ was born – named after her grandmother, who was a “Welsh beauty with a lifelong interest in good skincare,” comments Germaine.

From linen water to a huge product line, from candles to diffusers, aftershave gels to travel sets, Charlotte Rhys has become a beautifully scented force to be reckoned with. With its position in South Africa as a firm favourite and go-to, many Brits are familiar with the brand through their travels, and because of this, it became available in the UK in April this year.

The company prides itself on its green policy, being organic and selling luxury products with a conscience; it is a Beauty Without Cruelty (BWC) accredited brand. It believes in the protection of natural resources and sustainable development, along with reducing negative impact on the planet. It achieves this through using eco-friendly and biodegradable, 70 per cent recycled and recyclable packaging, and its products are free of harmful chemicals and dyes. This is undoubtedly one of the many reasons Charlotte Rhys supplies its products to leading hotels across the world – that, and the aromas.

The scents are inspired by the company’s birthplace: South Africa, and more widely, Africa. There’s a fragrance for all personalities and occasions, and many of the product lines are available in each one, so if you find your favourite – you can use it almost all over.

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The No.17 scent is woody yet fresh with notes of yuzu, bergamot and sandalwood, while Ruby Grapefruit is a tangy and fresh citrus fragrance that is guaranteed to liven up the day. Whereas St. Tomas is rich and invigorating with notes of mint, geranium and patchouli – mature yet playful – Victor is reminiscent of a private members’ club; think soft leather with hints of nutmeg and black pepper. Oud Noir has all the opulence and charm in the theme of Arabian nights – imagine the smell of the cinnamon from the souk matched with notes of vanilla and coconut. Meanwhile, Under the Leaves is a versatile scent that is instantly uplifting, like basking in the sun of an orangery.

My favourite, however, has to be Oud Blanche.

Seductive and full-bodied, like a good wine, this is delightfully complex with notes of saffron, rose and bergamot paired with cedarwood and gaiac.

These fragrances are all available in perfume form, but there’s no reason to end the scent sensation there. Charlotte Rhys can make any shower (or bath) time better with its collection of shower gels, shampoos and conditioners, which all come elegantly packaged. For the body, there’s a whole range of products to keep your skin silky soft and smelling good from head-totoe, such as hand cream, body lotion and body butter.

Charlotte Rhys has designed an exclusive line for men, too, including shaving gel, hair and body wash, aftershave balm and moisturiser, all of which are suave, sophisticated and ever-so masculine.

The home collection is where I think Charlotte Rhys really comes into its own; you can transform any room in your house to a haven of heavenly smells, using a candle, diffuser or room spray.

Christian Dior once said, “A woman’s perfume tells more about her than her handwriting,” and I think this can be extended to all forms of fragrance. You’ll always make the right impression with Charlotte Rhys. charlotterhys.uk.com

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HEALTH BEAUTY

BY Olivia sharpe

Photography: Jason Lloyd-Evans

Fashion Forward It has finally arrived. Following the announcement earlier this year, we can now reveal the much-anticipated make-up collection by Victoria Beckham for Estée Lauder. The limited edition range has been inspired by four of the British fashion designer’s favourite cities – London, New York, Los Angeles and Paris. The designer has captured our fair city where she “fell in love” and its perfect blend of “culture and edge” with romantic dark eye colour shades and golden hues. Must-have products for this season include the Chilean Sunset lipstick and the emerald green eyeshadow palette.

Victoria Beckham x Estée Lauder, from £22, esteelauder.co.uk

Home Stretch

Sea Breeze

Highlighting the burgeoning trend for athleisure, lululemon recently opened its first concession boutique in Harrods. The new space houses the brand’s sought-after apparel for men and women, including the best-selling High Times leggings and Swiftly Tech T-shirts. Jo Harris, general merchandise manager for menswear and sport at Harrods, comments: “Over the past two years, we have witnessed a rising demand from customers wanting to incorporate fitness apparel into their everyday lives, and our offering on Harrods Fifth Floor has evolved to reflect this.” lululemon, now available at Harrods Sports Department, Fifth Floor, harrods.com

Last month, we wrote about what we believed to be one of the most expensive foundations on the market: SUQQU’s extra rich cream formula, priced at a hefty £64. Well, it looks like this has been topped by none other than Crème de la Mer. Designed to bridge the gap between skincare and colour cosmetics, the luxury brand has incorporated its trademark Miracle Broth formula into its new make-up range – Skincolor de la Mer, comprising a foundation, concealer, powder, and two brushes. Along with giving long-lasting coverage, the foundation has the added benefits of hydrating, softening and smoothing one’s complexion, not to mention protecting your skin with the inclusion of SPF 20.

Available 1 October, £80, cremedelamer.com

Treatment of the

Seventh Heaven Photography: Louis Vuitton fragrance campaign starring Léa Seydoux, shot by Patrick Demarchelier

For most brands, one fragrance launch is quite enough to deal with each season. But for Louis Vuitton – a house that has become renowned for doing things on an even grander and more decadent scale than its competitors – this was never going to suffice.

Therefore, to celebrate the 70th anniversary of its first fragrance, Louis Vuitton has launched seven scents created by master perfumer Jacques CavallierBelletrud. From breezy Rose des Vents to dark and sultry Matière Noire, there is truly one to suit every occasion – or indeed, every day of the week. £180 for 100ml, uk.louisvuitton.com

Sisley Essential Facial, Harrods

mon t h

The go-to brand for make-up artists looking to perk up exhausted models before a runway show or shoot, you can always count on Sisley to give skin a restorative boost. However, if you’re in need of something more intensive than just a cleanse, then why not visit the French skincare brand’s newly opened treatment room at Harrods? The Essential Facial incorporates Sisley’s exclusive phyto complex oils and plantbased products, which are massaged into the skin using tried-and tested lymphatic techniques, before being further infused with hot towels. You’re guaranteed to leave with a renewed and glowing complexion. £50 for 45 minutes, Sisley Treatment Room at Harrods

Cabinet of Curiosities

Images courtesy of: Christian Louboutin

Christian Louboutin has been seducing women with his irresistible heels for years. So it seems entirely fitting that the footwear designer should next choose to create a fragrance range for the women he so adores. The three scents – Bikini Questa Sera, Tornade Blonde and Trouble in Heaven – have been based around three distinctive female personalities and should be experienced “in the same way as you experience a piano note being played,” says Louboutin. Housed in bottles resembling objet d’art – designed by acclaimed architect Thomas Heatherwick – each scent strikes the right note. £215 for 80ml, available at Selfridges, eu.christianlouboutin.com

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Kids KINGDOM

BY LAUREN STEVENS

A Bugzz Life With 15 design themes from which to choose, children are spoilt for choice with Rockin’ Baby’s A/W16 range. Ballerina, Bugzz and Scary Time are but a few of the themes, designed for both boys and girls up to 11 years old. The long-lasting fabric will endure almost any activity, so there is no restriction on fun. And if that wasn’t enough, a range of pyjamas will also be available, as well as waterproofs, snow suits and wellies – keeping kids well prepared, whatever the weather.

From £10, rockinbaby.com

Oui Chef!

Recalling childhood memories of days spent watching her grandmother cook, The Connaught’s head chef Hélène Darroze has launched a culinary masterclass for kids, in the hope that she will help them discover a passion for the kitchen. Le Petit Chef will be available exclusively to families staying at the hotel, where they will learn to make desserts of the highest class. They will also have the opportunity to experience the behind-the-scenes hustle and bustle of the two Michelinstarred kitchen, before enjoying a well-earned meal with their family and tucking into their very own culinary masterpieces. Bon appétit!

From £206 for two parents and one child, the-connaught.co.uk

Barbie Girl Charlotte Olympia has waved her magic wand and is granting little girls their wish of dressing like Barbie with an exclusive capsule collection. To celebrate this partnership, the British shoe designer’s signature Incy Kitty flats have been redesigned in leopard print and black velvet styles, with adult sizes, clutch bags and platform heels also on offer for grown-up Barbie fans. Ken sadly not included.

From £225, 114 Draycott Avenue, SW3, charlotteolympia.com

Soho Charmhouse

PET’S

Children aren’t always the tidiest of people, so leading nursery brand Silver Cross has designed a new storage unit with this in mind. The Soho Cot Bed & Combo Unit Set is the first of its kind, comprising a wardrobe, dresser and patented changer, which folds away neatly after use. Complete with storage space and a corresponding cot or toddler bed, the clean-cut range is designed with brushed steel square handles and a white wood-grain finish.

Soho, £895; Cot Bed, £300, silvercrossbaby.com

C OR N E R

The Stylish Life of Pets Calling all sartorial-savvy hound owners: dog accessories brand Harper and Hugo has collaborated with canine cashmere specialist Ruby Rufus to create a limited-edition sweater and matching necklace for seriously pampered pooches. The 100 per cent cashmere jumper features a camouflage and striped design and is available in a variety of sizes to suit all dogs, from Great Danes to Chihuahuas. £75, harperandhugo.com

Hello Pumpkin Halloween is a time to let your imagination run wild, a notion that has inspired Gardner and the Gang’s new collection of playful prints. Designed exclusively for Harrods, the collection features an array of colourful handdrawn illustrations, which adorn a variety of leisurewear pieces. Costume sorted, be sure to head to Harrods’ Toy Kingdom on 30 October, when spooky stories will be read out and a face painter will be on hand to transform little ones into their favourite Halloween characters.

From £39.95, exclusive to Harrods

Walking on Sunshine Those swapping the London drizzle in favour of some autumn sun should look to Heidi Klein’s kids’ collection for stylish swimwear that will block out harmful rays.

Manufactured with advanced UPF+50 lightweight fabrics, the line comprises a variety of one pieces, triangle bikinis, shorts and rash vests.

Available from 1 October, from £45, 174 Westbourne Grove, W11, heidiklein.com

s lu x urylondon . co. uk s

Animal Kingdom Nature, animals and cold weather are three things associated with Alaska and now also with Mini Rodini’s A/W16 collection, which was inspired by the northern U.S. state. Playful animal prints adorn organicallysourced materials, available in an eclectic mix of earthy shades that represent Alaska’s free-spirited nature. Kids can keep warm as the days get chillier in a selection of overalls, sweatshirts, dresses and basics.

From £4, minirodini.com

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CHARLOTTE RHYS CAPE TOWN Indulge yourself in our unique formulations. A fusion of silky textures, luscious fragrances and precious natural ingredients.

NOW AVAILABLE IN THE UK CHARLOTTE RHYS is proudly vegan & eco f r i e n d l y a n d e n d o r s e d b y B e a u t y W i t h o u t C r u e l t y.

Please call to find nearest stockist ENQUIRIES: Tel: +44 (0)1256 840840 • Email: enquiries@charlotterhys.uk.com w w w. c h a r l o t t e r h y s . u k . c o m

high life

strike three Relaxing in lavish surroundings is the ultimate aim of any luxury getaway. Luckily, Finnish interior design company Kudos Dsign has created three unique hotels that fit the bill. Starting in Stockholm, Hotel With has been built underground, offering 106 soundproof en suites with no exterior walls or windows, giving guests some respite from the city’s bustling Urban Deli located above. At the other end of the scale, the Resorts World Bimini in the Bahamas reaches new heights with a rooftop pool (pictured) in which guests can enjoy the swim-up suites.

Completing the collection is the Burj Al Arab hotel’s recently unveiled Terrace in Dubai, encompassing pools, cabanas and excellent restaurants. The only question that remains; which one will you choose?

Hotel With in Stockholm from £205; Resorts World Bimini in Bahamas from £115; Burj Al Arab in Dubai from £900 kudosdsign.com

Image courtesy of: Resorts World Bimini, Bahamas, Kudos Dsign

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Travel

THE WORLD

By Laura Dunham

Closer to Home

The Arts Club Take a Break Tucked away in the Maldives in South Ari Atoll, on the stunning (yet admittedly impossible to pronounce) island of Dhidhoofinolhu, LUX* Holidays has upped the relaxation ante with a selection of refurbished beach houses, 12 of which boast private pools. Whether you’re seeking an active escape or the ultimate zen experience, diving, swimming, snoozing and cycling opportunities are abundant on the island, along with tropical plants and wildlife. For stress-relief visit the spa or relax in a hammock with a cocktail (or two), before settling beneath the stars at the outdoor cinema. Bon voyage.

From £1,699, hayesandjarvis.co.uk

Breathing Space

Image courtesy of: Mandarin Oriental, Milan

Suite Dreams As the Italian capital of design and fashion, Milan boasts a wealth of stylish getaways. Among them is the Mandarin Oriental, which has recently designed two suites in homage to Piero Fornasetti and Giò Ponti. For ornate furnishings and quirky accessories, opt for the Fornasetti-inspired Milano room, which boasts original Fornasetti pieces and bright green walls. If minimalism is more your cup of tea, venture to the Premier suite where Ponti’s influence is felt throughout the space thanks to black walnut, navy leather upholstery and marble tables.

From €2,300 based on a three-night minimum stay, mandarinoriental.com

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As the trend for mindful living soars in popularity, those looking for some TLC are turning to spa specialists for help. The boutique spa hotel The Mayflower Grace is one such place. This year, the Connecticut-based retreat is celebrating its 10th anniversary and, to mark the milestone, the hotel has refurbished its guest rooms with the help of acclaimed interior designer Rod Pleasants.

As well as revamped boudoirs, guests can enjoy rejuvenating treatments, such as the Journey to Wellness package, which focuses on the mind and body, as well as forest bathing – a combination of mindfulness and hiking. Continue nourishing your body with the hotel’s seasonal menu devised by executive chef Isaac Olivo and feast on produce home-grown in the hotel’s garden.

Rooms from €610, gracehotels.com

If The Arts Club’s distinguished history isn’t enough to pique one’s curiosity, its chic design credentials most certainly are.

The private members’ club was founded in 1863 as a haven for those with a creative leaning (Dickens and Rodin were once part of its circle), and since last year, non-members have been able to stay in the 16 rooms above its Dover Street premises – where a programme of exhibitions and rotating artworks stay true to its original intent.

Each suite is individually decorated, with spacious marble bathrooms and plush furnishings in supremely elegant neutral tones. It’s the kind of set-up that inspires not wanting to step outside for a single second – nor would one have to, thanks to widescreen Apple TVs and rotary telephones to personal butlers and a truly “anytime” concierge. Stay, and envelop yourself in flawless style and service. Camilla Apcar From £480, theartsclub.co.uk

Image courtesy of: The Mayflower Grace

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Elenique - bespoke skin treatments to make you feel unique 959-961 Fulham Road London SW6 5HY

Opening hours: Monday – Thursday 10am - 8pm Friday 10am - 6pm Saturday 10am - 5pm

Sunday 10am - 4pm

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ThirdRock from the sun Deborah Cicurel gets on board The Ghan Expedition for a unique and unforgettable train journey through Australia

TRAVEL

I’m on the moon. The red, arid land stretches out in front of me and there’s no life to be seen. The silence is deafening. It must be the moon. Or at least, that’s what it looks like. I am, in fact, in Coober Pedy, the utterly remote opal mining capital of the world in the heart of the Australian outback. It’s not exactly picturesque or charming, but there’s an eerie, fascinating feel to it.

Ever since a 14-year-old boy, Willie Hutchison, first discovered opals here in 1915 while traversing the wilderness with his father, the remote, peculiar town has been a favourite with tourists keen to see ‘the true Australia’, before the manicured suburbs of Melbourne or the cosmopolitan streets of Sydney came into being.

There’s a strange, junkyard feel to the place, with old cars, discarded film props and unsightly debris lining the streets.

When soldiers came to Coober Pedy after WW1 – keen to make their fortunes from opal mining after all they had lost – they brought with them the knowledge and experience of living in the trenches. The new residents dug their homes underground to escape the searing heats of summer and the cool winds of winter.

And that is how this unique place got its name. In 1920, it was christened Coober Pedy, an anglicised version of the Aboriginal term ‘kupa piti’, meaning ‘boys’ waterhole’.

Nowadays, more than half of its population continue to live underground, with escorted tours showing visitors not only how the miners still track down valuable opals from the land, but also the cavernous dugout homes in which they live.

I am not staying in this uncanny, unfamiliar place though. Coober Pedy is just one of the stops on the Ghan Expedition – the Australian cross-continental rail journey that hurtles from the top of the enormous country to the bottom in four days and three nights, with jaunts and adventures in between – on which I have embarked.

Train journeys have lost their romance; their sense of intrigue. The days of glamorous dining carriages and panoramic vistas seen from one’s window are a distant memory and the majority of us are now used to cramped commuter carriages, stale sandwiches and constant delays.

Not the Ghan, which harks back to an age when trains were not just about getting from A to B, but enjoying the experience on the way. Covering nearly 3,000km of the most remote but fascinating parts of Australia, it takes passengers from Darwin – the tropical capital city of the Northern Territory – all the way to Adelaide, the cosmopolitan, quirky capital of South Australia.

While the normal Ghan service runs all year (compromising two nights and three days with limited touring), this special expedition is a one-of-a-kind, extended journey that gives passengers more time to spend both on board the luxury train and in the curious world beyond, getting to grips with the country’s most remote parts.

Previously a three-month service, next year it will be extended to six months, such is its popularity. While the journey is a favourite among older Aussies looking for an unusual staycation, I generally found there to be a mix of people on board, from solo flashpackers and honeymooning couples, to families after a holiday that offers more than a hotel room and swimming pool.

The friendly, warm dining carriage, with barely-there phone signal and no garish ‘Free Wi-Fi’ signs, means travelling on the train recalls a bygone era: a time when people used to talk, really talk, and listen to each other, and when journeying together was a shared experience rather than something merely to be endured. You eat with people you’ve never met before – daunting at first, no doubt – but you soon realise this is no place to worry about emails or signal.

This is about new friends, unfamiliar scenery, and indelible experiences.

Boarding the train in laid-back Darwin the very same day, you’re dropped in the town of Katherine, where you can pick from a number of excursions. I choose the breathtaking Nitmiluk Gorge cruise, where, on a boat drifting between serene gorges, you learn about the history of the indigenous Jawoyn people, and while clambering over rocks, you can see for yourself the ancient artwork etched into the vertiginous sandstone cliffs. You might also spot crocodiles, indolently sprawled across branches and regarding you with icy eyes.

Another interesting stop is Alice Springs, where you can either explore the remote rural town, or, if you’re feeling brave, opt for a scenic flight of Uluru, or Ayers Rock – the gargantuan Australian landmark that’s millions upon millions of years old. Just getting to Uluru is a feat in itself, with the pocket-sized plane terrifyingly light and fragile in the air, and the endless desert scenes outside the dusty windows of the aircraft feeling almost uncomfortably close.

But once you’re there, Uluru is even more magnificent in real life than the brochures promise. It’s over 860m above sea level, with a circumference of 9.4km – to put into perspective, that’s higher than the Eiffel Tower (which is 324m). But it’s not just the sheer size of the World Heritage-listed, famous red rock that is so affecting, but the spiritual significance it holds to the Anangu

The Ghan harks back to an age when trains were not just about getting from A to B, but enjoying the experience on the way

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people, the traditional owners of Uluru. As we walk around the monolith, not even coming close to seeing enough of it, our guide regales us with traditional Anangu stories, each groove, crack and crevice in the rock having its own symbolic and poignant explanation.

The wonderful thing about covering this far-off land by train is the comfort of it all. As anyone who has been to Australia before will know, connecting the dots between each city takes a bit of logistical planning, to say the least, whether you want to save on time and fly, or save on money and take a bus or car journey for days on end.

It is a luxury to be able to snuggle down into my comfortable bed each night, the vast desert flashing past my window, after enjoying an authentic Australian meal (typical fare includes saltwater barramundi and kangaroo sausage), without planning anything at all. We simply wake up and enjoy a hearty breakfast before being transported as if by magic to the most special parts of the outback, not having to partake in any of the organisation that travelling across such an enormous country would normally involve.

However, it’s not just excursions and touring on board the Ghan Expedition. There are extra touches the whole way through to make you feel like it’s more than a train trip from one capital city to the other, that you’re being taken care of. The outback dinner at the Alice Springs Telegraph Station, partaking in a traditional Aussie barbecue under the stars, to the sound of live music. The postcards, with free postage, left on your pillow so you can write to your family about how your trip is going. The knock on your door in the morning, not just to wake you up, but with a restorative hot cup of tea in bed. The canapés at an obscure, sun-scorched train station, while catching up

with other passengers who you’ve only known for hours, but who feel like old friends.

Arriving at the penultimate stop, Coober Pedy, I think, if this isn’t the moon, this must be the set of Mad Max. Hours later, as we stop to snap pictures of the desolate wasteland and grab yet another glass of South Australian wine, our guide tells us it was indeed the set of the post-apocalyptic film. Where else could the filmmakers so effectively portray the end of the world? I wouldn’t like to live in this peculiar moonscape, I think to myself, but there surely can’t be a better way to experience the heart of Australia than this: the dreamy, lost art of travelling by train.

TRAVEL

more information Freedom Australia (freedomaustralia.co.uk, 0333 234 2859) can book an eight-day holiday to Australia, which includes the Ghan Expedition experience from £2,749 per person.

This includes international flights with Singapore Airlines from London Heathrow to Darwin, returning from Adelaide, including all airport taxes, one night’s accommodation at the Travelodge Mirambeena Resort Darwin, three nights/four days aboard the Ghan in Gold Service, including all meals, beverages and off train excursions, including: Katherine Gorge Cruises, Alice Springs Desert Park or landmarks tour, Outback BBQ dinner and Underground lunch at Coober Pedy, and one night’s accommodation at the Majestic Roof Garden Hotel in Adelaide.

For further information on The Ghan and other train journeys across Australia, visit: greatsouthernrail.com.au

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Enchanted Islands Cast yourself away to the Maldives – it’s the perfect place to escape a hectic urban lifestyle, as GRACE SMITH discovers

The Conrad Maldives Rangali Island Located deep in the heart of the Indian Ocean and consisting of an archipelago of approximately 1,200 idyllic islands, 200 of which are inhabited and 100 which are hotels, the Maldives is firmly on the map as a paradise holiday destination. With its crystal clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, green palms and breathtaking pure white sandy beaches, it’s no surprise that it’s a geographical wonder. Little do visitors know that just over 40 years ago – the first resort opened in 1972 – not that many people had heard of the land of luxury that now offers unrivalled service, secluded villas and exquisite food in some of the world’s top resorts. Indeed, its “No News, No Shoes” policy makes it a popular holiday retreat for royals, including HRH The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.

Just a 30-minute scenic seaplane transfer from Malé airport is the five-star Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, made up of two islands joined together by a 500-metre walkway, on which you can spot rainbowcoloured fish, turtles and even the odd shark. Here, holidaymakers can choose from a villa or suite, each offering an exclusive, hideaway feel.

I stay in a Deluxe Beach Villa, complete with private plunge pool, bathing pavilion, garden and direct beach access – the ultimate escape. Catering to absolutely every whim or need, it’s easy to while the hours away. The most I have to think about is choosing which of the 12 restaurants and bars to dine or drink in, an almighty selection given that even the most luxurious resorts only tend to have one or two restaurants; it’s no wonder Rangali Island is on the bucket list for foodies.

Critics clearly agree with its gourmet offering as the island has won awards aplenty; just a few months ago it took home an impressive seven accolades at the Annual World Luxury Restaurant Awards.

One of these was the Global Winner of Luxury Scenic Setting for the world’s first underwater

TRAVEL

restaurant, Ithaa, meaning ‘mother-of-pearl’ in Dhivehi. Eleven years ago, it was submerged five metres below sea level using 85 tonnes of sand to weigh it down. As well as enjoying a 180-degree submarine outlook, the six-course European menu is a feast for all the senses, with typical dishes including Maldivian lobster carpaccio, reef fish tartare and poached quail egg with passion fruit dressing.

For me, there’s nothing better to end a meal with than cheese and wine, so my luck is in store with The Conrad’s dedicated wine cellar and cheese bar. With more than 20,000 bottles of fine wines from 1,400 labels and 101 of the world’s best cheeses, there’s plenty from which to choose.

After experiencing some of the finest dining in the world, I decide on a more laid-back approach for one of the evenings. Brought by a dhoni boat to the nearby reefs, I fish Maldivian-style using a hand-reel line and pull in my catch of the day. Back on land, it’s prepared for us for evening supper and lunch the next day.

This is just one of the activities that the resort offers. There’s absolutely no fear of getting ‘Maldives cabin fever’; as well as countless activities such as beach volleyball, yoga and watersports, guests can make the most of the Spa Retreat. With nine floor-to-ceiling glass treatment rooms where you can watch the sea life below, while enjoying one of the treatments from the extensive spa menu that includes Elemis and Valmont products, it also boasts an organic restaurant and accommodation. That’s if you can’t make the arduous journey back to the villa, of course.

Nightly rates at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island start from US$1,240 (approx £735), based on two sharing a Beach Villa on a room-only basis. Rates are subject to change.

Prevailing taxes and service charges apply, conradhotels.com/Maldives

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Travel

The Residence Maldives Two resorts are better than one and this year sees the opening of The Residence Maldives at Dhigurah. It will be linked by a footbridge to The Residence Maldives at Falhumaafushi, which opened in 2012. Both lying in the Gaafu Alifu atoll, they will form one of the largest resort offerings in the Maldives. Along with properties in Mauritius, Tunis and Zanzibar, it brings the total number of The Residence by Singapore-based group Cenizaro to five hotels and resorts, with further expansion plans in the pipeline.

What immediately strikes me immediately is the warm welcome that I receive at The Residence Maldives at Falhumaafushi. In fact, this is the case throughout my stay: the hospitality and personal service is impeccable and no request is too much. For the duration of my stay I reside in a Water Villa, just one of 94 beach and over-water villas that has been designed with inspiration from the island; think thatched roofs, lush fabrics and natural materials.

Intended to be a home-from-home, it’s easy to relax and unwind here – it’s the ideal ‘fly and flop’ resort and perfect for honeymooners who want to remain in their own bubble.

The wow-factor is without doubt the ocean views; waves lap on the villa’s doorstep while a school of fish flits between the bright coral reefs; it’s as though I’m in an aquarium. The veranda is the perfect spot to indulge in some Maldivian sunshine and kick back and relax. In fact, it’s quite easy to spend your whole time in somewhat of a lazy daze.

If you can be stirred from your slumber, however, start or end your day with sun salutations on the open-air deck, which is dedicated to yoga and meditation classes.

It’s also the spot to watch the sun rise or set. For further relaxation, Clarins’ spa (the only one in the Maldives) can give you that added push.

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For those who are more active, guests can not only enjoy a number of excursions such as swimming with dolphins, but can also make the most of the hotel’s PADI 5* Dive Centre. Offering all types of water sports, from snorkelling to scuba-diving, it’s the perfect opportunity to discover the coral reefs and rich marine life.

After burning off some energy, it’s important to refuel. The Residence Maldives offers a number of settings in which to dine, whether you’re after a light bite or a sumptuous à la carte meal. A highlight is the private dining experience, where a personal chef creates a bespoke menu. I enjoy a candlelit meal on the beach as the sun sets and a canopy of stars is revealed. It’s the ultimate finale to a magnificent Maldives experience.

Nightly rates at The Residence Maldives start from US$450 (approx £336) until October 2016, based on two sharing on a room only basis. Rates are subject to change. cenizaro.com/theresidence/maldives-fm

dsb_A4_advertisement_AW:Layout 1 22/05/2015 11:47 Page 1

where heritage meets contemporary elegance. dorsett shepherds bush, london

discover more telephone +44 (0) 203 262 1026 info.shepherdsbush@dorsetthotels.com dorsetthotels.com/london/shepherdsbush

TO READ MORE ARTICLES LIKE THIS VISIT www.luxurylondon.co.uk

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PROMOTION

Liquid GOLD Discover the secret to finding the perfect whisky for your palate

The Macallan’s new Double Cask takes its place effortlessly alongside the brand’s other 12-year-old expressions: Fine Oak and Sherry Oak. Double Cask’s savoir faire lies in its marriage of European and American oak and has resulted in beautifully balanced flavours.

The Macallan’s head of education Daryl Haldane explains what all the fuss is about and how we can be a part of this exciting single malt movement.

A unique characteristic of our whisky is that it is massively varied in taste and texture. You have a very light and flowery whisky with the Fine Oak, a much more intense, complex and balanced whisky in the Double Cask and when you get to the Sherry Oak, you get a very rich and sweet style of The Macallan.

a cocktail, a food pairing or something as simple as a whisky and soda – and then you can start enjoying and experimenting with different ways of drinking it.

I recommend people share some food while they enjoy the whisky. The Macallan Double Cask is quite an intense flavour; I always find lots of beautiful vanillas and brioche notes in it that work well with seafood such as scallops and tapas dishes like salted meat, ham and olives. The whisky is able to compete with those kinds of flavours, but also brings a balance as well.

I was in a Hong Kong hotel yesterday and the bartender created a drink using mustard. The spicy, savoury and almost umami flavours worked brilliantly.

For a whisky novice I would suggest The Macallan 12 Years Old Fine Oak. If you like spirits and already enjoy rum or blended whiskies, The Macallan Double Cask is another great way for you to begin your journey.

As we come into autumn I really enjoy The Macallan on ice. Sometimes – on colder evenings especially – I like a neat whisky with coffee, and every now and then I like an Old Fashioned.

To find the right whisky for your palate, you have to explore and be willing to try, in a similar way to coffee.

When you start drinking coffee you make allowances: you add sugar or have a mocha and then two years later you’re drinking espresso. You have to find out what your first great experience of whisky is going to be – perhaps

We have a new distillery coming in 2018, which is incredibly exciting. It shows that we are very confident about what will happen in the future and we want to continue to make brilliant whisky for another 200 or 300 years. themacallan.com

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& DINING

DRINKING

BY LAURA DUNHAM

review

Photography: Jonathan Clark Architects

All the Tea in China Lovers of Notting Hill’s celebrated ULI restaurant will be pleased to learn that the establishment has now reopened on Ladbroke Road, the former site of the Queen Elizabeth laundrette. The 60-cover restaurant has been redesigned and now features a clean, minimalist interior, with hanging lights and an outdoor terrace for warmer days. The menu has also been reimagined to serve homely and simple classics from China and Southeast Asia.

Pop in for Thai prawn red curry, pak choi and ginger Chinese broth and sweet and sour battered pork.

5 Ladbroke Road, W11, ulilondon.com

School of Roka Last summer, spilling out from a pub and on to the road, glass of wine in hand, I was approached by a Japanese tourist who enquired why myself and so many others were gathered on the pavement drinking. Was it a national bank holiday? Had the pub just launched?

I couldn’t say anything in return that would fully explain why hordes of city folk congregate in such a manner on a Friday night. “It’s just what we do in Britain,” was my reply.

The only equivalent the Japanese have to our watering holes is izakaya, an informal venue that serves sake and sharing plates – dubbed ‘Japanese pubs’. Locals usually head here for a post-work drink and a few rounds of raw fish.

It is on this model that Roka is based. Since it opened in 2014, a keen following has lapped up its ice boats layered with pastel-pink sashimi and fillets of sirloin steak with wasabi ponzu sauce.

The design of the restaurant is ideal for a relaxed evening of constant chatter – the kind of atmosphere not dissimilar to our very own public houses. In the centre of Roka Mayfair is the robata grill. Chefs dash back and forth cooking up a storm, giving flavour to seafood and meat over hot charcoal – perfect for all-day dining or an evening meal. Perched on the periphery are the diners, who peek into the whirlwind in front of them ready to see what is churned out.

Firstly, the tempura. The rock shrimp variety is a golden art form; its batter is both crunchy and

fluffy, and the fish succulent. It’s comforting and moreish, in contrast to the zesty yellowtail sashimi with yuzu truffle dressing, mizuna and pickled vegetable, which is delicate and refreshing.

The litmus test of Japanese fine dining in London seems to be black cod with miso. Order it here and the marinade is made with more yuzu (citrus fruit) and hajikami (ginger pickled in vinegar), and the overall taste is a familiar, slightly sticky sweetness that can characterise Asian cooking.

I am content with the spicy tuna maki, slivers of octopus and thick-cut salmon – the fish is so fresh and light that you get full in a gradual, glorious way. Definitely try a steak too, medium-rare for tenderness and perfectly seasoned.

Next up, the dessert platter arrives with more colours and flavours. The team are deservedly proud of the black sesame ice cream and cherry blossom macarons.

Once you’ve been inaugarated into the polished breed of Roka diner, make the most of the cocktail bar and order a potent espresso martini. Or why not return for Roka’s pairing meals with wine, sake and even shochu (£90 per person; the next is on 31 October). Just make sure you don’t spill out on to the street clutching a wine glass. That sort of behaviour is reserved solely for the British drinking house.

30 North Audley Street, W1K, rokarestaurant.com

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Team Work Couture meets cuisine at Boutique 1, where Bistrotheque’s Pablo Flack and David Waddington have created April’s Café: a sophisticated hub for clean, fresh and filling food. The seasonal menu, which has been devised by head chef Blaine Duffy, features dishes such as caramelised tomato tart with burrata, and pink beef with heritage tomatoes and wild garlic, providing the perfect pitstop for those who have shopped until they’ve dropped.

127-128 Sloane Street, SW1X, boutique1.com Photography: Vilius Kadunas

Eat Local Bringing a slice of countryside charm to Chelsea is Tom’s Kitchen, which is hosting a butchery evening in partnership with meat supplier Lake District Farmers. Guests will see a butchery demonstration before tucking into a delicious meal of steak tartare, rack of Herdwick mutton cutlets on a bed of white beans, black olives and braised crispy shallots and blackberry plum fool with blackberry sorbet and honeycomb, complete with matching wines. Each course will be presented by Dan Austin from Lake District Farmers and Eric Telford, the company’s very own mutton farmer, giving guests the chance to learn more about the cultivators behind their meat. Not suitable for vegetarians. £70 per person, 28 September, 27 Cale Street, SW3, tomskitchen.co.uk

Time and Day While Chelsea’s 24-hour café VQ has long been a popular choice for night owls on the hunt for a midnight snack, the restaurant’s latest venture is best suited to those who aren’t as fussed about round-the-clock service. The first non-24-hour branch on Notting Hill’s Pembridge Road will serve VQ classics, such as bubble ‘n’ squeak, eggs Benedict, burgers, pasta and salads.

24 Pembridge Road, W11, vqrestaurants.com

Photography: Jason Bailey

Raise the Bar Photography: David Griffen

Blakes has opened a new bar and lounge designed by internationally renowned interior designer, Anouska Hempel. Blakes Below offers a fusion of Asian and Western cultures with creative cocktails, such as Tokyo Drift and Chai Tea Martini, as well as tasty bar snacks in the form of truffle cheese burger sliders and soft shell crab with tempura. To keep you entertained, live piano sessions and DJ sets will be performed.

33 Roland Gardens, SW7, blakeshotels.com

Count on Monte Cristo Those partial to a sundowner post-work should pay a visit to the Dorsett Hotel on Shepherd’s Bush Green, which is home to its very own cocktail haven, the Jin bar. With a lengthy menu of delectable tipples, Jin boats an enviable selection of beers and wines, as well as innovative cocktails created using homemade ingredients. One of its most imaginative recipes is the Montecristo Daiquiri, which started with a homemade cigar-infused rum that was aged for 24 hours and then shaken with vanilla syrup, elderflower liquor, lime juice and dash of grapefruit bitter. Cheers!

58 Shepherd’s Bush Green, W12, dorsetthotels.com

s luxuryl o nd o n . c o. uk s

095

A Scent of Occasion

Kim Sion

What: Bella Freud’s Fragrance Launch WHEN: 6 September WHERE: Third Floor, Fenwick of Bond Street WHO: Gala Gordon, Georgia and Jenny Howorth, Sophie Kennedy Clark and Martha Ward WHY: Designer Bella Freud enjoyed cocktails with her friends to celebrate the launch of her new Close to My Heart fragrance and pop-up shop at Fenwick of Bond Street. Guests danced along to tunes played by Freud’s long-term pal DJ Neville Hyde, while sampling the London mules and classic margaritas on offer. Copious drinks later and those in attendance unashamedly took to the photo booth to take some fun selfies, with the props having been hand-sketched by the designer herself.

Bella Freud Gala Gordon & Martha Ward

Model Behaviour What: My Burberry Black Launch Party WHEN: 24 August WHERE: Thomas’s Café, 5 Vigo Street, W1S WHO: Lily James, Josh Whitehouse, Todd Dorigo, Douglas Booth, Christopher Bailey and Cressida Bonas WHY: British actress Lily James has revealed a darker side to her nature in Burberry’s latest ad campaign for My Burberry Black. James was joined by her modelling compatriots and some of her fellow Downton Abbey co-stars to celebrate the launch of the new perfume for women at Thomas’s Cafe – located above Burberry’s flagship London store – which had been adorned with floral decor in honour of the occasion.

Maddie Mills

Talking Shop Yasmin Mills

Scarlett Carlos Clarke, Azzi Glasser & Greta Bellamacina

Sophie Kennedy Clark

OMEGA Sea Master Planet Ocean 600M Master Chronometer Chronograph

What: Ara Vartanian Launch Party WHEN: 7 September WHERE: 44 Bruton Place, W1J WHO: Jo Wood, Jaime Winstone, Fran Cutler, Lady Mary Charteris and Serena Rees WHY: To celebrate the opening of his first European store, jeweller and recent K&C interviewee Ara Vartanian held a cocktail party at the new Mayfair standalone. Sadly close friend Kate Moss couldn’t make it, but the night still went off with a bang, with guests Jo Wood, Jaime Winstone and Fran Cutler all admiring the space while sipping on Copper Dog Whisky cocktails. The evening continued with an intimate dinner at neighbouring eatery Bellamy’s, where DJ Fat Tony treated diners to a lively set.

A Good Sport

Adam Peaty

Michael Phelps, Chad le Clos & Alexander Popov

What: : Omega Swimming Legends Event WHEN: 15 August WHERE: Omega House, Rio de Janeiro WHO: Michael Phelps, Chad le Clos, Alexander Popov and Adam Peaty WHY: Athletes came together to celebrate the Omega Swimming Legends event at the Omega House in Rio de Janeiro. Special guest Michael Phelps – who now boasts a total of 28 Olympic medals – greeted guests with a speech about his achievements and retirement. Culinary delights came in the form of smoked salmon, caviar and tomato baguettes, and shrimp noodles.

LONDON LIVING Cressida Bonas & Clara Paget

Gemma Chan

Ellie Bamber & Todd Dorigo

Douglas Booth & Jenna Coleman

Lily James

Elizabeth McGovern & Laura Carmichael

Photography: Dave Benett/Getty Images Ara Vartanian & Jake Chapman

Jaime Winstone, Ara Vartanian & Fran Cutler

Serena Rees & Cora CorrĂŠ

Melanie Blatt & Kyle De’volle Daniella Helayel & Fabiana Flosi

Charlotte Cutler & Jay Mehler

Count Leopold & Countess Debbie von Bismarck

s l u x u rylondon . co. u k s

097

The Concierge What is it you require, sir? How may I help, madam? The Concierge is here to help with every need, whim or wish, however great or small Apparel

For the Home

Richard Ward

Smile Style Dental Care

Repairs & Cleaning

FurniturE, SOFT furnishings

82 Duke of York Square, SW3 4LY 020 7730 1222 richardward.com

146 Holland Park Avenue W11 4UE 020 7727 5810 smilestyledental.co.uk

& APPLICANCES

Jeeves of Belgravia 123 Fulham Road, SW3 6RT 020 7589 9229 jeevesofbelgravia.co.uk

Hutch Interiors 61 Golborne Road, W10 5NR 020 3659 4320 hutchinteriors.com

Sloane Tailors & Dry Cleaners 69-71 Lower Sloane Street SW1W 8DA 020 7824 8644

Precious Pieces

Katharine Pooley 160 Walton Street, SW3 2JL 020 7584 3223 katharinepooley.co.uk

Jewellery Valuation & repair

Ligne Roset

Hawkes and Son

23/25 Mortimer Street, W1T 3JE 020 7323 1248 ligne-roset.co.uk

50-52 Walton Street, SW3 1RB 020 7589 2523 hawkesandson.com Watch Repair

April Russell Design 89 Larkhall Rise, SW4 6HR 020 7720 0046 aprilrussell.com

Cartier 143-144 Sloane Street SW1X 9BL 020 7312 6930 cartier.co.uk

Sub-Zero & Wolf 251 Brompton Rd, SW3 2EP 0845 250 0010 subzero-wolf.co.uk

Beauty Salons & Spas

42 The Dental Practice The Chelsea Day Spa 69a King’s Road, SW3 4NX 020 7351 0911 thechelseadayspa.co.uk

42 Pembridge Road W11 3HN 020 7229 5542 42thedentalpractice.com

Hydrohealing Spa

The Portobello Clinic

216a Kensington Park Rd, W11 1NR 020 7727 2570 hydrohealing.com

12 Raddington Road W10 5TG 020 8962 0635 portobelloclinic.com

Strip Wax Bar 112 Talbot Road, W11 1JR 020 7727 2754 stripwaxbar.com

Haute Cuisine

Urban Retreat at Harrods

Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park 66 Knightsbridge, SW1X 7LA 020 7201 3899 barboulud.com

Bar Boulud 87-135 Brompton Road, SW1X 7XL 020 7893 8333 urbanretreat.co.uk Medical & Dental Services

Bibendum 81 Fulham Road, SW3 6RD 020 7581 5817 bibendum.co.uk

The Watch Gallery

Nina’s House

Cadogan Street Dental Office

129 Fulham Road SW3 6RT 020 7952 2730 thewatchgallery.co.uk

281 King’s Road, SW3 5EW 020 7751 5827 ninashouse.com

47 Cadogan Street, SW3 2QJ 020 7581 0811

Vintage Watch Sellers

Pampering & Wellbeing

The Cow Chelsea Consulting Rooms

Hairdressers

2 Lower Sloane Street, SW1W 8BJ 020 7763 9100 chelseaconsultingrooms.com

Hari’s

Medicare Français

305 Brompton Road, SW3 2DY 020 7581 5211 harissalon.com

3 Harrington Gardens, SW7 4JJ 020 7370 4999 medicare-francais.co.uk

Watches of Knightsbridge 64 Knightsbridge SW1X 7JF 020 7590 3034 watchesofknightsbridge.com

Dining

89 Westbourne Park Road, W2 5QH 020 7221 0021 thecowlondon.co.uk

Electric House

WANT TO SEE YOUR BUSINESS LISTED HERE? If you are interested in promoting a service on these useful pages, please contact Sophie Roberts for more information s.roberts@runwildgroup.co.uk 020 7987 4320

191 Portobello Road W11 2ED 020 7908 9696 electrichouse.com

CONCIERGE

Gaucho

William Curley

Childcare

dog training

89 Sloane Avenue, SW3 3DX 020 7584 9901 gauchorestaurants.co.uk

198 Ebury Street, SW1W 8UN 020 7730 5522 williamcurley.co.uk

Kensington Nannies

M.A. Dog Training and Services

The Ledbury Restaurant

Drinking

3 Hornton Place, Kensington High Street W8 4LZ 020 7937 2333 kensington-nannies.co.uk

07547 716076 madogtraining@gmail.com madogtrainingandservices.co.uk

127 Ledbury Road, W11 2AQ 020 7792 9090 theledbury.com

The Mitre 40 Holland Park Avenue, W11 3QY 020 7727 6332 themitrew11.co.uk

Restaurant Gordon Ramsay 68 Royal Hospital Road, SW3 4HP 020 7352 4441 gordonramsay.com

The Botanist 7 Sloane Square, SW1W 8EE 020 7730 0077 thebotanistlondon.com

Hillside Clothes Care Boujis 43 Thurloe Street, SW7 2LQ 020 7584 2000 boujis.com Members’ Clubs

Chelsea Arts Club Scalini

cleaners

1-3 Walton Street, SW3 2JD 020 7225 2301 scalinilondon.co.uk

143 Old Church Street SW3 6EB 020 7376 3311 chelseaartsclub.com

Umami

The Sloane Club

100 Cromwell Road SW7 4ER 020 7341 2320 umamilondon.co.uk

Lower Sloane Street, SW1W 8BS 020 7730 9131 sloaneclub.co.uk

Delicatessens

computer & technology help

Business Affairs

118 Kensington Park Road W11 2PW 020 7243 6900 hillsidedryclean.co.uk

Infusion Haberdashery and Dry Cleaners 3 Chepstow Road W2 5BL 020 7243 8735 infusion-haberdashery.co.uk

95 Notting Hill Gate W11 3JZ 020 7985 0903 purplebone.com

Little Luxuries Flowers

Nikki Tibbles Wild at Heart

Ottolenghi Delicatessen

Couriers

63 Ledbury Road, W11 2AD 020 7727 1121 ottolenghi.co.uk

Selena Courier Service

lifestyle services london lifestyle service

Melt Chocolates

White Circle Collection

59 Ledbury Road, W11 2AA 020 7727 5030 meltchocolates.com

71 Walton Street, SW3 2HT 020 7989 9890 whitecirclecollection.com

222 Westbourne Grove W11 2RH 020 7727 3095 wildatheart.com

specialist services BUILDERS AND DECORATORS

Lethbridge London Ltd Building & Decorating Specialist 020 3609 1918 lethbridgelondon.co.uk

William Gaze Ltd

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

psychotherapist

07770 378791 suzannethomas@suzannethomas.co.uk suzannethomas.co.uk

Richard Darsa

Chocolatiers

Frame Set & Match 111 Old Brompton RoadSW7 3LE 020 7589 7635 framesetandmatch.com

Purple Bone

78 Cadogan Place, SW1X 9RP 07768 200 551 richard@darsa.net

2-5 Duke of York Square, SW3 4LY 020 7730 7102 partridges.co.uk

PICTURE FRAMER

Suzanne Thomas

La Bottega

Partridges

Abels Moving Services UK Residential, European and International Removals & Storage 01842 816600 info@abels.co.uk, abels.co.uk

Pets

65 Lower Sloane Street, SW1W 8DH 020 7730 8844 labottega.co.uk

Suite 86, 235 Earls Court Road SW5 9FE 020 3643 5410 selenacourier.co.uk

moving services

Basement, Loft & Extension Specialist 020 7078 8874 williamgazeltd.com

security services

Westminster Security Ltd 34 Buckingham Palace Road SW1W 0RH 020 7123 4544 / 0755 4000 300 westminstersecurity.co.uk SHORT-LET RENTAL MANAGEMENT

Easy Rental Services aurelie@easy-rental-services.com 020 3567 0604 easy-rental-services.com EMOTIONAL WELLBEING THROUGH WRITINg

Ease your emotional baggage through writing. Sit with a writer and, using a specially developed format, write out your traumatic event or problem to release it. To book 60 or 90 minute appointments email info@lilybass.com or call 07733 112333, lilybass.com

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MARYLEBONE

& FITZROVIA SEPTEMBER 2016 s iSSuE 004 s £5.00

Trend setters

Fashion illustrators go back to the drawing board

Fendi

fortunes

Celebrating 90 years of craftsmanship and couture

Model

behaviour

Behind the lens with creative director Grace Coddington

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE: A/W16 cATWALk cOLLEcTIONS s Sophia WebSter s TrUNk cLOTHIErS s Simon burStein

To subscribe, please visit rwmg.co.uk/subscribe now

HOMES showcasing the

finest HOMES & PROPERTY from the best estate agents

Green Light Grosvenor explores the possibilities of sustainable heritage buildings

Image courtesy of

Ken & Chel - Sept 2016 CROPS

05/09/2016 15:24:50

K&

50

Duchess of Bedford House, Kensington W8 A well presented two bedroom apartment with porter This fifth floor apartment is immaculately presented and situated in one of the most prestigious apartment blocks in Kensington and benefits from a lift, porter and an impressive far reaching view of Kensington. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, reception room, kitchen, guest cloakroom, lift, concierge. EPC: C. Approximately 132 sq m (1,421 sq ft).

Leasehold: approximately 138 years

Guide price: £2,750,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/kensington kens@knightfrank.com 020 3551 5156

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

KnightFrank.co.uk/KEN150229

K&C - DOB, 30 - amended

05/09/2016 12:02:42

Edwardes Square, Kensington W8 A four bedroom late Georgian terrace house This Grade II listed house is set back from the road behind its own paved garden with beautiful garden square views to the front as well as open views to the rear. 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 3 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, 3 cloakrooms, utility room, pantry, storage room, front and rear gardens, access to residents' garden square. Approximately 356 sq m (3,838 sq ft).

Freehold

Guide price: £7,500,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/kensington kens@knightfrank.com 020 3551 5156

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

KnightFrank.co.uk/CHO150219

K&C - Edwardes Sq, 40 - amended

05/09/2016 11:58:41

K&

41

Hollandgreen Place, Kensington W8 An elegant three bedroom apartment within a prime new development An excellent lateral apartment with 2.9m ceiling heights located on the third floor of the Garden building, set within one of London’s most exclusive and prestigious new development in Kensington. 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, reception room, kitchen, utility area, storage, 2 Juliet balconies, secure underground parking for 1 car, lifts, 24 hour concierge, swimming pool, gymnasium, private screening room, executive boardroom.

EPC: B. Approximately 212 sq m (2,286 sq ft).

Leasehold: approximately 998 years

Guide price: £7,550,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/kensington kens@knightfrank.com 020 3551 5156 Struttandparker.com/offices/londonkensington-sales kensington@struttandparker.com 020 7938 3666

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

KnightFrank.co.uk/KEN160134

K&C - Hollandgreen 37 - amended

05/09/2016 12:10:14

Ossington Street, Notting Hill W2 Stunning two bedroom flat An opportunity to acquire an immaculately refurbished and beautifully presented split level flat located in a handsome building in this prime location in the heart of Notting Hill. 2 bedrooms, bathroom, reception room, kitchen. EPC: E. Approximately 82 sq m (888 sq ft).

Leasehold: 96 years remaining

Guide price: £1,375,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/nottinghill nottinghill@knightfrank.com 020 8166 5449

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

KnightFrank.co.uk/NGH160017

Ossington Street K&C September 2016

02/09/2016 10:20:18

Ke

18

Kenure House, Princedale Road, Notting Hill W11 Heritage. Detail. Masterpiece.

A rare opportunity to acquire this magnificent family home architecturally designed throughout by Echlin. Master bedroom with dressing room, shower room and bathroom, 4 further bedrooms, en suite shower room, en suite bathroom, family bathroom, 3 reception rooms, media room, eat-in kitchen, utility, study, 2 guest cloakrooms, 3 terraces and two storey living wall, patio, garage. EPC: E. Approximately 348 sq m (3,745 sq ft).

Freehold

Guide price: £8,950,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/nottinghill nottinghill@knightfrank.com 020 8166 5449

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

KnightFrank.co.uk/NGH160112

Kenure House K&C September 2016

02/09/2016 14:11:25

MOVE. FASTER. SELL WITH KNIGHT FRANK. Our understanding of the ever-changing market enables us to price your property accurately, so you can rely on Knight Frank to get you moving.

Call us today to arrange your free market appraisal.

KnightFrank.co.uk/knightsbridge knightsbridge@knightfrank.com 020 3641 5913 Guide price: £3,295,000

Lennox Gardens, Knightsbridge SW1

A stunning interior designed apartment offering superb views over the exceptional communal gardens of this leading Knightsbridge address. 2 bedrooms (both en suite), reception room, dining room, kitchen, cloakroom. Leasehold. EPC: C. Approximately 113 sq m (1,226 sq ft). knightsbridge@knightfrank.com Office: 020 3641 5913

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

Guide price: £9,850,000

Lowndes Square, Knightsbridge SW1 A bright lateral apartment on this popular Knightsbridge garden square with 24 hour porter.

3 bedrooms ﴾all en suite), reception/dining room, media room, kitchen/breakfast room, cloakroom, media room, porter, lift. Leasehold. EPC: C. Approximately 195 sq m (2,102 sq ft). knightsbridge@knightfrank.com Office: 020 3641 5913

Kensington & Chelsea October 2016 - Lennox and Lowndes

05/09/2016 18:08:05

Ke

05

MOVE. FASTER. SELL WITH KNIGHT FRANK. Our understanding of the ever-changing market enables us to price your property accurately, so you can rely on Knight Frank to get you moving.

Call us today to arrange your free market appraisal.

KnightFrank.co.uk/knightsbridge knightsbridge@knightfrank.com 020 3641 5913 Guide price: £1,925,000

Draycott Place, Chelsea SW3

An immaculate two bedroom maisonette close to Sloane Square, which has been refurbished to an excellent specification. 2 bedrooms (both en suite), reception room, kitchen, cloakroom, patio, terrace (undemised), communal garden. Share of freehold. EPC D. Approximately 78 sq m (846 sq ft). knightsbridge@knightfrank.com Office: 020 3641 5913

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

Guide price: £2,900,000

Cadogan Gardens, Chelsea SW3 A truly spectacular and luxurious duplex penthouse apartment in the heart of Chelsea. Master bedroom (en suite), reception room, kitchen with dining area, utility room, cloakroom, entrance hall with direct lift access, 2 terraces. Leasehold. EPC: E. Approximately 127 sq m (1,359 sq ft). knightsbridge@knightfrank.com Office: 020 3641 5913

Kensington & Chelsea October 2016 - Draycott/ Cadogan Gardens

05/09/2016 10:58:55

Westbourne Gardens, Notting Hill W2 Contemporary two bedroom first floor apartment in new development Newly built flat set in an impressive white stucco-fronted building with lift access, part-time concierge and secure underground parking. Benefits from high end interiors with the very latest in modern design, including Siemens appliances, LED lighting, Duravit porcelain basins, timber flooring and Sonos entertainment system.

2 bedrooms, bathroom, shower room, reception room, open plan kitchen and private balcony.

EPC: B. Approximately 88.3 sq m (951 sq ft).

Available furnished or unfurnished

KnightFrank.co.uk/lettings nottinghilllettings@knightfrank.com 020 3551 9610

Guide price: £1,050 per week KnightFrank.co.uk/NHQ247910 All potential tenants should be advised that as well as rent, an administration fee of £276 and referencing fees of £48 per person will apply when renting a property. Please ask us for more information about other fees that may apply or visit KnightFrank.co.uk/tenantcharges

K&C Lettings Oct 2016 - Westbourne Gardens

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

05/09/2016 11:13:30

K&

30

Sydney Street, Chelsea SW3 Beautifully designed four bedroom house This house has been beautifully refurbished to offer a contemporary living space. The well designed lower ground floor features a large, stylish kitchen and dining room leading to a patio garden. On the first floor, the reception room benefits from wood floors and a dual east to west aspect. 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, double reception room, dining room, Baulthaup kitchen, patio garden, garage. EPC: D. Approximately 204 sq m (2,198 sq ft).

Available furnished/unfurnished

KnightFrank.co.uk/lettings knightsbridgelettings@knightfrank.com 020 3641 6019

Guide price: £2,100 per week KnightFrank.co.uk/KNQ215345 All potential tenants should be advised that as well as rent, an administration fee of £276 and referencing fees of £48 per person will apply when renting a property. Please ask us for more information about other fees that may apply or visit KnightFrank.co.uk/tenantcharges

K&C October 2016 - lettings

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

06/09/2016 09:25:38

K&C Sept2

06/09/2016 10:02:41

PROPERTY

PrimeQResi

Property News

Journal of Prime Property

PRIME RESI provides us with a comprehensive monthly round-up of key news about the local luxury property market

primeresi.com

PCL rental values (Chart by Knight Frank)

A Cut Above the Rest Managing director of CENTURY 21 Sophia Elena, Elena Dimova, urges us to ignore what we read in the press and instead to focus on the market and the desirable London properties on offer

Drop Out A flood of properties has hit the lettings market over the last year and it’s having a big impact on prices, according to four leading players in the prime central market. Rental values in prime central London (PCL) have dropped by something between 0.5% and 10%, depending on whose numbers you look at, while stock levels have surged by up to 49% in the last 12 months.

London recorded its first annual rent drop (-0.5%) in rents in six years, says Countrywide Plc, which has noted a 33% year-on-year rise in the number of homes to let across the capital. Data provider LonRes, narrowing the field from Greater London to just the prime postcodes, has recorded a more severe 2.4% dip in rental values, driven by a 17-19% increase in new rental properties coming to market. And it looks as though things get even more acute in Mayfair and other parts of PCL: Knight Frank reports a massive 49% increase in new rental properties placed on the market in Q2 2016 compared to the same period a year earlier, and a 3.6% slashing of rental values.

Pavilion Road scheme, image courtesy of: PDP

Out of the Park The Harrods car park on Knightsbridge’s Pavilion Road is all set to transform into high-end extra care residential apartments, after RBKC gave the £200m project the green light in August. The development is a continuation of the top-end care trend making its way across PCL. Working for Dartmouth Capital Advisors Ltd., architecture practice PDP London has designed 34 two-bed apartments with associated healthcare facilities.

Rumours that an underground tunnel will link the development with Harrods are being downplayed by the architects.

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

SHOUD WE BELIEVE what we read in the papers? There is so much conjecture out there on what London property prices are going to do in the post-Brexit world.

As economists understand, predictions are based on a set of assumptions. Very few people can claim to know for certain what will happen in Britain in the aftermath of the EU referendum, as so many of the strategic decisions are yet to be made. Despite this, property market analysts are still quick with their predictions for property prices. So perhaps it is time we took these with a pinch of salt.

The reality in the market is that in the latter part of the summer, we saw international investors visiting London, looking to take advantage

When buyers have a choice, they gravitate towards properties with distinctive features, whether it’s location, local amenities or interior design of the weaker currency and buy, irrespective of some of the not-sopositive press. The attractiveness of reliable property ownership rights in England and a well-functioning rental market haven’t changed. Now that local people have come back from their holidays, we are seeing viewings on houses surge.

What we are experiencing in the market is an increased amount of viewings, a higher amount of offers and an overall appetite to make decisions and find solutions in the market and fulfil one’s property requirements – whether that is due to need or investment objectives.

We are even seeing a sense of urgency among some buyers to act now before the market moves again.

When buyers have a choice, they instinctively gravitate towards properties with distinctive features, whether it’s location, local amenities, building services or the quality of the interior design. Let’s say a property has been renovated with exquisite attention to detail and using the finest materials, such as Calacatta Borghini or Fior di Bosco book-matched marble. Make no mistake – discerning buyers will view it as a cut above the rest.

CENTURY 21 Sophia Elena, 10 Clarendon Road W11 3AA 020 7229 1414, century21uk.com

113

Open new doors Move with Savills

NOTTING HILL CHEPSTOW PLACE W2 1 1 1

CHELSEA IFIELD ROAD SW7 3 1 2

6660|01 K&C First Sales DPS One ART.indd 1

Guide £1.25 million

931 sq ft EPC=C

EARLS COURT WARWICK ROAD SW5 3 1 2

Guide £850,000

647 sq ft EPC=C

Guide £1.65 million

1,354 sq ft EPC=D

07/09/2016 15:02

6660

Call us 7 days a week on 020 7877 4640 savills.co.uk

CHELSEA LOTS ROAD SW10 3 1 2

Guide £1.295 million

998 sq ft EPC=D

EARLS COURT PHILBEACH GARDENS SW5 2 1 1

Guide £725,000

645 sq ft EPC=C

Guide £0.00 million

NOTTING HILL WILBY MEWS W11 2 2 2

15:02

6660|01 K&C First Sales DPS One ART.indd 2

Guide £1.85 million

1,083 sq ft EPC=D

CHELSEA HARCOURT TERRACE SW10 2 1 1

Guide £1.495 million

837 sq ft EPC=D

07/09/2016 15:03

Contact us on 020 7535 3300 or kensington@savills.com savills.co.uk

BEAUTIFULLY PRESENTED WHITE STUCCO PERIOD FAMILY HOUSE

BRUNSWICK GARDENS W8 5 4 5

6660|02 K&C Ken & NHill Prime DPS Two ART.indd 1

3,606 sq ft EPC=D

Guide £6.95 million

4 reception rooms | kitchen | 5 bedrooms | 5 bathrooms study/staff bedroom | utility room | sauna | wine vaults | paved garden

07/09/2016 14:58

6660

Contact us on 020 7727 5750 or nottinghill@savills.com

BEAUTIFUL FOUR BEDROOM PERIOD HOUSE ON THIS EVER POPULAR NOTTING HILL STREET

NORTHUMBERLAND PLACE W2 1,855 sq ft 4 2 3 EPC=D

14:58

6660|02 K&C Ken & NHill Prime DPS Two ART.indd 2

Guide £3.25 million

2 reception rooms | study | dining room/kitchen | 4 bedrooms 3 bathrooms | garden

07/09/2016 14:59

020 7221 1117 www.crayson.com

10 Lambton Place London W11 2SH

St Charles Square North Kensington W10 Wildly chic, excellent location, newly decorated – a family house for someone with excellent taste...

3,412 sq ft/ 317 sq m Freehold Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea Guide Price ÂŁ4.5 million

020 7221 1117 www.crayson.com

10 Lambton Place London W11 2SH

Craven Hill Bayswater W2 The top two floors of a smart Bayswater address – spacious, convenient, it ticks boxes all over the place...

1,604 sq ft/ 149 sq m Share of Freehold City of Westminster Guide Price £2.35 million

Prince Edward Mansions Notting Hill W2 The archetypal London flat – good proportions, good looks, good address. It’s all good...

1,216 sq ft/ 113 sq m, City of Westminster, EPC rating band D, Share of Freehold Guide Price £1.75 million

020 7221 1117 www.crayson.com

10 Lambton Place London W11 2SH

Ladbroke Gardens Notting Hill W11 Uber-fashionable London at the front, peace and beauty at the back - this is what Notting Hill is all about...

1,430 sq ft/ 132.85 sq m, Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, EPC rating band D, Leasehold Guide Price ÂŁ2.75 million

020 7221 1117 www.crayson.com

10 Lambton Place London W11 2SH

Colbeck Mews

ÂŁ3,950,000

Chelsea SW7

freehold

Having undergone a full refurbishment, this stunning, architecturally designed 3 bedroom house, measuring approximately 2,212 sq ft offers well balanced accommodation & is ideally situated on a quiet residential mews in South Kensington.

EPC Exempt

Chelsea

020 7594 4740 sales.chelsea@chestertons.com

chestertons.com

Wetherby Gardens

South Kensington SW5

A fabulous 3 bedroom maisonette with 2 patios, occupying the lower levels of this handsome period building in South Kensington, benefiting from access to the award-winning communal garden.

EPC rating E

Chelsea

020 7594 4740 sales.chelsea@chestertons.com

ÂŁ2,950,000 share of freehold

Courtfield Gardens

ÂŁ2,295,000

London SW5

leasehold

A 2/3 bedroom apartment refurbished to an extremely high standard, benefitting from access to Courtfield Gardens. Spread over 1,408 sq ft, the superbly proportioned accommodation comprises an open plan living room leading on to a south facing patio garden. There is a bespoke Norfolk Oak kitchen with a Lacanche range cooker & concertina doors opening onto the patio. There are 2 large double bedrooms (master en-suite), a study/3rd bedroom, a family bathroom & a utility room.

EPC rating C

Kensington

020 7937 7244 sales.kensington@chestertons.com

chestertons.com

Kensington Court

Kensington W8

An opportunity to acquire a 2,000 sq ft top floor lateral apartment in the sought after period mansion block, Roxburghe Mansions, in Kensington Court. This incredibly bright apartment boasts wonderful roof top views. There are 2 large reception rooms with 2 balconies, a large open hallway/dining area, a kitchen, 4 double bedrooms & 2 bathrooms. The apartment has a spacious feel & benefits from an abundance of natural light throughout.

EPC rating E

Kensington

020 7937 7244 sales.kensington@chestertons.com

ÂŁ3,995,000 leasehold

Pembridge Villas

ÂŁ4,500,000

Notting Hill W11

freehold

A beautiful 4 Bedroom mid-terrace period house on Pembridge Villas, Notting Hill.

It is approximately 2,516 Sq Ft in size & in need of modernization, befitting from views over Dawson Place. It has both a front & rear garden & is well located for the many shops, restaurants & transport links of Westbourne Grove & Notting Hill Gate.

EPC rating C

Notting Hill

020 3040 8585 sales.nottinghill@chestertons.com

chestertons.com

Needham Road

Notting Hill W11

A beautifully refurbished 5 bedroom semi-detached house on Needham Road. The property is one of 4 houses of exceptional architectural style in this lovely street with an elegant curve to the front of the building, sash windows & decorative ironwork. It has been beautifully refurbished & modernized whilst preserving its period features. The house benefits from fine tall ceilings & plenty of natural light & includes 2 reception rooms, a large media room & a small garden.

EPC rating D

Notting Hill

020 3040 8585 sales.nottinghill@chestertons.com

ÂŁ5,250,000 freehold

Think central London property.

Think KFH. kfh.co.uk/central

London-wide reputation. Central expertise.

Our central branch locations:

Established in 1977, we are one of London’s leading independent property services groups. Trusted across the Capital, our extensive network, local insight and comprehensive services are key to delivering success in central London.

• Bayswater

• Holland Park

• Clerkenwell

• Marylebone

• Earls Court

• South Kensington

• Fulham and Chelsea

• St John’s Wood

Whether you are looking to buy, sell, rent or let in central London or across the Capital, we will achieve the result you need.

Find your local branch at kfh.co.uk/central

KFH_Runwild_Central London.indd 1

• Fulham

07/09/2016 15:18

10.1

Holland Park, Holland Park, W11 £1,100,000 Holland Park 020 3542 2111 hollandpark.sales@kfh.co.uk

15:18

10.16 Runwild Kensington and Chelsea.indd 2

A beautiful one bedroom top floor apartment in an Italianate villa with access to lovely communal gardens.

Holland Park is a desirable street in Kensington and Chelsea. The beautiful green acres of Holland Park itself are a short walk away, as are a choice of shops, cafés and restaurants. Holland Park underground station is also within walking distance.

• • • • • • • •

One double bedroom Modern kitchen Spacious reception Communal gardens Views over tennis courts Excellent transport links Share of freehold EPC rating E

07/09/2016 13:35

Brompton Road, Knightsbridge, SW3 £2,400,000 South Kensington 020 3040 6370 southkensington.sales@kfh.co.uk

10.16 Runwild Kensington and Chelsea.indd 3

This superb two bedroom apartment is ideally located in a portered building opposite Harrods. The property has a large master suite, second double bedroom and a spacious open plan reception and kitchen.

The property is located in the heart of Knightsbridge, opposite Harrods.

South Kensington, Sloane Avenue and Knightsbridge underground stations are within walking distance, as is Hyde Park.

• • • • • • •

Two double bedrooms Two bathrooms plus guest WC Open plan layout Portered building Opposite Harrods Leasehold EPC rating C

07/09/2016 13:35

10.16

13:35

Pottery Lane, Holland Park, W11 £1,600 pw / £6,933 pcm

A unique four bedroom mews style house comprising a large reception room, four double bedrooms, three bathrooms, an eat in kitchen and roof terrace. The property is flooded with natural light and benefits from great entertaining space and wooden floors throughout.

Holland Park 020 3542 2120 hollandpark.lettings@kfh.co.uk

Pottery Lane is within close proximity to Holland Park, Kensington Gardens, Portobello Road, and Westfield shopping centre. Holland Park underground station is also within walking distance.

10.16 Runwild Kensington and Chelsea.indd 4

• • • • • • •

Four bedrooms Three bathrooms Eat in kitchen Roof terrace Close to amenities Furnished or unfurnished EPC rating E

£210 tenancy agreement fee per property. Other fees apply, visit kfh.co.uk/lettingsfees

07/09/2016 13:35

carterjonas.co.uk

HORNTON STREET Kensington W8

A bright and unusual duplex apartment with a large roof terrace located on the top two floors of this attractive red brick period building on Hornton Street, located in the heart of Kensington.

Reception room • 2 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms • Contemporary finish • Roof terrace • EPC rating D

Guide price £1,800,000

Holland Park & Notting Hill 020 7371 1111 hollandpark@carterjonas.co.uk

PENZANCE PLACE Notting Hill W11

A bright upper floor maisonette spread across the first and second floors of a period building on Penzance Place and Clarendon Cross. It benefits from a large roof terrace and its own private front door from the street.

Reception room • 2 bedrooms • Bathroom • Roof terrace with panoramic views • EPC rating E

Guide price £1,575,000

Holland Park & Notting Hill 020 7371 1111 hollandpark@carterjonas.co.uk

carterjonas.co.uk

DORCHESTER COURT Knightsbridge SW1X

A stunning lateral apartment within a well-maintained building located moments from the high end boutiques of Sloane Street and Knightsbridge. The property is beautifully presented throughout and offers views and access to the private gardens of Cadogan Place.

Reception/dining room • 3 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms • Communal gardens • EPC rating D

Guide price £4,250,000

Knightsbridge & Chelsea

020 7584 7020 knightsbridge@carterjonas.co.uk

CLIVEDEN PLACE Belgravia SW1W A bright and spacious lateral flat on the second floor of a pretty period conversion only moments from Sloane Square and the amenities of Chelsea and Belgravia.

2 reception rooms • 3 bedrooms • 3 bathrooms • Newly redecorated • EPC rating C

£1,795 pw*/£7,788 pcm* Knightsbridge & Chelsea

020 7584 7020 knightsbridge@carterjonas.co.uk

ADDISON ROAD Holland Park W14 A wonderfully spacious apartment on the raised ground floor of this period conversion.

The property benefits from a reception room with high ceilings, excellent bathrooms and kitchen, and a very special private paved garden.

Reception room • 2 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms • Garden • EPC rating C

£975 pw*/£4,225 pcm* Holland Park & Notting Hill 020 7371 3377 hollandpark@carterjonas.co.uk

*Rent excludes reference and tenancy paperwork fees. Please contact our branch who can provide this information.

A wonderful double-fronted, two-bedroom duplex with two en suite bathrooms and a double garage Matching people and property in London for over 150 years.

Albert Hall Mansions SW7 £6,750,000 A A magnificent magnificent four-bedroom four-bedroom family family home, home, set set in in aa beautiful beautiful red-brick red-brick period period building building located located moments moments from from Kensington Kensington Gardens Gardens and and Hyde Hyde Park.

Park. EPC=C EPC=C

Four bedrooms bedrooms • Approx Approx 3,000 3,000 sqft sqft • Private Private street street entrance entrance • Porter Porter service service • Four

Prime Prime Sales: Sales: 020 020 8038 8038 8941 8941 sales.skn@marshandparsons.co.uk sales.skn@marshandparsons.co.uk

St. Marks Road W10 £4,750,000 An imposing six-bedroom red-brick property which is immaculately presented throughout, with a 37 ft west facing garden and only a short walk from Portobello Road. Freehold. EPC=F

• Beautiful six-bedroom house • Large garden • Approx 4,000 sqft • High ceilings North Kensington Sales: 020 7313 8350 sales.nkn@marshandparsons.co.uk

Moscow Road Road W2 £2,100,000 Moscow stylishand andcontemporary contemporarythree-bedroom three-bedroom home home arranged arranged over AAstylish over four four floors, floors, with excellent entertaining space and an abundance of natural light. with excellent entertaining space and an abundance of natural light. EPC=D EPC=D Threelarge largedouble doublebedrooms bedrooms •Two reception rooms rooms • Southerly patio garden garden • Close to to Hyde Hyde Park Park ••Three • Tworeception • Southerly patio • Close Notting Hill Sales: 020 7313 2890 sales.not@marshandparsons.co.uk Notting Hill Sales: 020 7313 2890 sales.not@marshandparsons.co.uk

QUEENSDALE WALK, W11

A fantastic low built and wide double house on only two floors in one of the quietest and most secluded locations in the heart of Holland Park. Drawing room; dining room; kichen/breakfast room; study; main bedroom suite with bathroom; dressing room and roof terrace; two further double bedrooms and bathrooms; private rear garden.

Freehold for sale: ÂŁ6,750,000

CLARENDON ROAD, W11

A fabulous garden maisonette with direct access to the communal gardens and with garage and off-street parking in this most prestigious of residential addresses. 45ft drawing room leading to private terrace; kitchen/family room; master bedroom suite with bathroom and dressing room; study & utility room; four further bedrooms; family bathroom & en-suite shower room.

Freehold for sale: ÂŁ8,500,000

QUEENSDALE PLACE, W11

Freehold for sale: £2,950,000

A newly refurbished four storey victorian terraced house tucked away in this charming cul-de-sac in the heart of the Norland Conservation Area. 31ft reception room; large kitchen/dining room; separate utility room; master bedroom suite; two further bedrooms & shower room; west facing rear patio garden.

VICTORIA ROAD, W8

Share of Freehold for sale: £7,950,000

A superb and beautifully refurbished lateral upper maisonette with huge wow factor in one of Kensington’s most desirable addresses. Drawing room and interconnecting dining room; open plan kitchen; phenomenal master bedroom suite; four further bedrooms; two shower rooms & further bathroom (en-suite); cinema room.

MELBURY ROAD

To let: ÂŁ1,950 per week

A fantastic newly refurbished four bedroom family home with off-street parking just off Kensington High Street and within a stone`s throw of Holland Park. Generous reception room; large fully fitted kitchen/dining room; principal bedroom suite; three further bedrooms and two additional bathrooms; private patio garden.

FARMER STREET, W8

To let: ÂŁ1,200 per week

A pretty victorian terraced house in Hillgate Village with an attractive rear garden. Double reception room; kitchen family room; master bedroom with bathroom en-suite; two further bedrooms & family bathroom; private rear garden.

Ormonde Gate, Chelsea SW3

ÂŁ3,950,000

Enjoying the beautiful views over the gardens of Burton Court, this well presented two bedroom apartment occupies the first and second floors of this prestigious address in the heart of Chelsea. The property offers well-proportioned accommodation throughout, high ceilings and period features with sweeping views over Burton’s Court from the grand reception room. EPC rating F. Approximately 1,652 sq ft (154 sq m).

Master bedroom with en suite bathroom | Second bedroom | Reception room | Dining room | Kitchen | Utility room | Two guest cloakrooms

Share of Freehold

77-79 Ebury Street, London SW1W 0NZ sothebysrealty.co.uk +44 20 7495 9580 | london@sothebysrealty.co.uk

sothebysrealty.co.uk

Cromwell Place, South Kensington SW7

£2,350,000

A beautifully refurbished three bedroom, three bathroom apartment arranged over the top two floors of this stunning Grade II listed, white stucco fronted period building. The apartment boasts great volumes and an abundance of light with fantastic open-plan living which is ideal for entertaining. EPC rating F. Approximately 1,613 sq ft (150 sq m).

Two bedroom suites | Third bedroom | Third bathroom | Reception/dining room | Kitchen | Flat roof deck | Air conditioning | No service charge

Leasehold approximately 109 years

JSA Farleys 0207 589 1234

© 2016 UK Sotheby’s International Realty. All rights reserved. Sotheby’s International Realty is a registered trademark licensed to UK Sotheby’s International Realty in the UK. Each offïce is independently owned and operated. All information non - contractual, approximate and subject to error, change and withdrawal without notice. Rent excludes administration fees. Please contact our offïces who can provide this information.

WILTON ROW, BELGRAVIA SW1X

£2,750,000

LEASEHOLD

• TWO ENSUITE BEDROOMS • RECEPTION AND DINING AREA • SEPARATE KITCHEN • • PRIVATE PARKING • UTILITY ROOM • QUIET BELGRAVIA LOCATION • LONG LEASE •

BELGRAVIA OFFICE 1 Motcomb Street, London SW1X 8JX +44 (0)20 7235 8861 belgraviaoffice@henryandjames.co.uk

henryandjames.co.uk

•

SOUTH EATON PLACE, BELGRAVIA SW1W

£1,795 PER WEEK • THREE BEDROOM PENTHOUSE • TWO BATHROOMS • OPEN PLAN KITCHEN & DINING AREA • STUDY • • DIRECT LIFT ACCESS • GUEST CLOAKROOM • AIR-CONDITIONING • ACCESS TO COMMUNAL GARDENS • Plus £240 Tenancy Fee and £60 Referencing Fee (per person)

BELGRAVIA OFFICE 1 Motcomb Street, London SW1X 8JX +44 (0)20 7235 8861 belgraviaoffice@henryandjames.co.uk

henryandjames.co.uk

A BEAUTIFULLY PRESENTED THREE-BEDROOM TRIPLEX APARTMENT MOMENTS FROM SOUTH KENSINGTON

SYDNEY MEWS, SOUTH KENSINGTON, SW3 • Three-bedroom triplex apartment • Two private entrances CHELSEA OFFICE: • Abundance of light throughout • Wooden floors throughout T: 020 7225 5752 francis.burca@harrodsestates.com • First floor reception room with high ceilings • EPC rating D Guide price £2,500,000

Leasehold Approximately 84 years

RENTAL INVESTMENT: A LARGE AND WELL PRESENTED ONE BEDROOM APARTMENT ON QUEENS GATE

QUEENS GATE, SOUTH KENSINGTON, SW7 • Lower ground floor • Separate entrance • Wooden floors throughout

• Over 736sq ft CHELSEA OFFICE: • Bay-fronted reception room T: 020 7225 5911 mark.greenway@harrodsestates.com • EPC rating D

Guide price £945,000

Leasehold Approximately 76 years

HARRODSESTATES.COM

KENSINGTON PENTHOUSE WITH STUNNING VIEWS ACROSS LONDON WOLFE HOUSE, KENSINGTON W14 • Three en-suite bedrooms • 24hr concierge and security • Open plan kitchen, living and dining area • Gymnasium, pool and spa • Terrace overlooking London skylines • 2,078sq ft/ 193.05sq m Guide Price £5,300,000

KENSINGTON OFFICE: T: 020 3650 4600

andy.harris@harrodsestates.com

Leasehold Approximately 996 years

HARRODSESTATES.COM

.

www.century21uk.com/nottinghill

nottinghill@century21uk.com

KENSINGTON COURT KENSINGTON W8

£4,000,000 share of freehold

3 bedrooms | open-plan reception, dining area and kitchen | 3 bathrooms | first floor | fireplace | lift | caretaker | Epc D • • • •

Verena kitchen Breakfast island featuring Calacatta Borghini marble Ash grey oak flooring by Element 7 Gaggenau four ring gas hob with teppan-yaki

10 Clarendon Road London W11 3AA

• •

Fior Di Bosco book-matched marble in master en suite Poliform wardrobes in all bedrooms

020 7229 1414

AUBREY WALK, KENSINGTON, W8 An impressive, freehold, Art Deco and beautifully refurbished 7 bedroom, 5 reception room and 7 bathroom house arranged over five floors featuring a blue plaque for Dusty Springfield. An unusual lateral space is created by joining two neighbouring houses together on a hill top close to both Holland Park and Notting Hill Gate. State of the art luxury conveniences include Lutron lighting and underfloor heating. The lower ground floor provides your own private spa a 35’ swimming pool, separate gym, sauna and Jacuzzi. The property opens up in summer for combined indoor and outdoor garden entertaining. In addition a roof terrace has far reaching views. There is a good separation of entertaining areas for the larger family, and off street parking for two cars. Located well for the city with the underground Central Line from Holland Park providing direct access. Local restaurants are great for eating out and the fashionable shopping of High Street Kensington and Notting Hill Gate are close by. Approx. 7200 Sq Ft. EPC Rating C.

GUIDE PRICE: £16,500,000 FREEHOLD FRANCE

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ENNISMORE GARDENS, KNIGHTSBRIDGE, SW7 An elegant Grade II listed house, situated in prime Knightsbridge. The house has imposing dimensions with high ceilings and period features. 2 reception rooms, study, kitchen/breakfast room, 6 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 3 shower rooms. Small terrace, lift and access to communal garden for a small fee. 4057 Approx Sq Ft, EPC Rating F.

John Taylor UK 48 Berkeley Square, London W1J 5AX Tel: 020 3284 1888 Email: london@john-taylor.com

PRICE: £12,250,000 FREEHOLD FRANCE

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VANTAGE PLACE, KENSINGTON, W8 An extremely well presented three/four double bedroom town house close to Kensington High Street and Holland Park, but very quietly situated in this private gated development of only four houses, just off Abingdon Road. It benefits from an internal terrace with a fully retractable glass sliding roof, providing year round use. Also, there is an integrated music system, flat screen televisions, a fully fitted kitchen / breakfast room, water softening system, and under floor heating on all levels - each room independently controlled.

1/2 reception rooms · Eat-in kitchen · 3/4 double bedrooms · 3 en-suite bathrooms · Laundry room · Cloakroom · Decked atrium · Approx. 2,268 sq ft · Energy Efficiency Rating C

£2,300 PER WEEK

FURNISHED

CHEYNE PLACE, CHELSEA, SW3 A stunning two bedroom garden flat that has been refurbished to the highest of standards. The property offers spacious accommodation and retains many of its original features. Benefitting from wood floors throughout and a large private garden, viewing is highly recommended. Cheyne Place is close to all the amenities of the King’s Road and is a short walk to Battersea Park.

Double reception · Kitchen · 2 double bedrooms · Study/office/walk in cupboard/baby’s room off master bedroom · 2 bathrooms (1 en-suite) · Utility room · Garden · Approx. 1,475 sq ft · Energy Efficiency Rating D

£990 PER WEEK

UNFURNISHED

aylesford.com

+44 (0)20 7351 2383

le¥ings@aylesford.com

Tenant’s fees may apply: Bank reference fee (charged directly): Lease charge (£180 inc. VAT): Credit reference fee: (£54 inc. VAT): Please contact us for further information.

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LIMERSTON STREET, CHELSEA, SW10 A wonderful, low built, family house arranged over only three floors with the benefit of a light and spacious double reception room and a west facing garden. The property would now benefit from a degree of updating, however offers great potential for three or four bedrooms on a popular Chelsea street, perfectly situated between both the King’s Road and the Fulham Road.

2 reception rooms · 2 kitchens · Master bedroom with en-suite · 2 further bedrooms · 4th bedroom/study · 2 further bathrooms · Garden · Energy Efficiency Rating E

FREEHOLD

SOLE AGENTS

GUIDE PRICE £2,950,000 SUBJECT TO CONTRACT

BURNABY STREET, CHELSEA, SW10 A charming four bedroom mid-terrace house, arranged over four floors, providing circa 1,962 sq ft of living space (including vaults). The property includes a wonderful and light double reception room and study on the ground floor, with a large kitchen, separate dining room and conservatory over the lower ground floor. The property also benefits from a good garden with a sunny south facing aspect, which is accessible from both the ground floor as well as the conservatory on the lower ground floor. Further accommodation includes a large master bedroom with en-suite bathroom and private roof terrace, and three further bedrooms.

Reception room · Kitchen · Dining room · Study · Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom · 3 further bedrooms · Family bathroom · Conservatory · Vaults · Garden and terrace · Energy Efficiency Rating E

FREEHOLD

£2,333,000 SUBJECT TO CONTRACT

sales@aylesford.com

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08/09/2016 16:11

A Whole New World Fifty years after setting up his now global estate agency, Aylesford International, its chairman Andrew Langton looks back at the halcyon days of the 1960s property market and forward to the future. Olivia Sharpe reports Above/ xxxxx Photography: Sarel Jansen

I am sitting in one of Aylesford International’s latest properties to hit the market; a ground and garden floor apartment in Belgravia. Eighteen months in completion, 33 Chesham Place comprises four bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, library, reception and dining room. With concierge built into the yearly service charges, not to mention a doorman and 24/7 security, the fortunate new owner won’t even have to change a light bulb.

The property’s agent – founder and chairman of Aylesford International, Andrew Langton – explains how Chesham Place epitomises what the modern buyer wants. Living in a technological age whereby instant gratification can be achieved at a click of a button has resulted in a growing impatience in society.

Langton notes how in today's current retail property market, people are no longer willing to wait for the perfect home. “There’s an intolerance,” he states, simply. “Time is money and you have to accommodate that.”

Andrew Langton is a veteran of the property industry, both in London and abroad. Looking back to when he started out exactly 50 years ago, he remembers a very different time. The year was 1966 – the era of The Beatles, rock 'n' roll, questionable haircuts and more importantly, freedom of the housing market.

“Back then, there were hardly any estate agents and the word ‘modernised’ hadn’t even come into existence,” he explains. “A property then was just a place you lived in. You didn’t upgrade it.” With house building reaching record levels at the end of the '60s, estate agents had

their pick of the crop when it came to London housing which, at the time, looked far less manicured than it does today.

Indeed, one of Langton’s most memorable viewings was when he took a potential buyer to a property in Chelsea’s World’s End. “I was standing in the middle of this dilapidated room,” he recalls, “And I remember saying to the client that the property needed some work and just as I said this,

PROPERTY

the floor gave way beneath me and the only thing that stopped me from plummeting to the ground were the rafters on either side of me.”

Today, the World’s End is evolving into one of London's prime addresses, but when Aylesford’s flagship office first opened here – when the area was at the centre of the counter-culture of the 1960s – this wasn’t the case. “It wasn’t called 'World’s End' for nothing,” Langton says, smiling. “It was a pretty rough area and one of our first tenants was Ronnie Kray. I had to collect the rent off him every Friday night so I was known as the 'rent boy’ and he would say, ‘Are you coming in, son?’ So I went downstairs and there they were all dancing and drinking. I couldn’t get out of there fast enough.”

Now, of course, the landscape looks entirely different and Langton references the oil boom of the '70s as the fundamental reason for this transformation. As Britain experienced a period of stagflation following the OPEC 1973 oil embargo, the estate agent and his team headed over to the Middle East to dispose of the city’s excess property as overseas investors looked to park their surplus wealth. This subsequently led to foreign buyers investing in the UK on a massive scale. Today, they dominate the prime central housing market and despite the recent outcome of the EU referendum, Langton believes they will continue to do so as they take full advantage of the weakness of the pound.

“My honest advice for my clients at the moment is to keep an eye on foreign exchange,” he argues. “Because the person who buys Chesham Place, for instance, will most likely be sitting on his boat somewhere watching the pound’s movement on his iPhone. And if sterling slides another five to 10 per cent, then just think about the money they’re saving.” Langton and many of his peers have noted how Brexit was by no means the only factor in the fall in prime central London property prices, with the hike in stamp duty having greatly affected demand. The estate agent therefore predicts that the next quarter will be very interesting in seeing where the pound will rest.

What has seen the biggest hit following Brexit is Aylesford’s international division. As one of the first agencies to venture abroad back in the '70s, Langton remembers a time when British buyers were reaping the benefits of the favourable exchange rate and indeed, history has shown that the Brits have been the biggest buyers of overseas properties than anyone else. Although this is not the case at the moment, the agent believes that the market will eventually stabilise and there will be a return of British buyers abroad.

For Langton, the industry’s biggest threat is not Brexit, but advances in technology as more and more people rely on the internet for their property sale transactions. “We shouldn’t underestimate what the internet is going to do next,” he comments. “It has desecrated the retail world and we are so used to having everything online that buying your house will become like any other service industry in the next 10 years.”

In the meantime, Langton strongly believes that London will remain a safe-haven investment for foreign investors due to its political stability. “With such major problems going on in the rest of the world, there’s no doubt in my mind that the capital is right at the top of people’s wish lists.” He predicts that the government, under newly-appointed Prime Minister Theresa May, will attempt to redress the current imbalance with the rest of the country by increasing supply. "You cannot have London and the rest of the country

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33 Chesham Place reception room

33 Chesham Place garden

having this awful envy factor and so I think she [Theresa May] will introduce a much more measured society going forward."

Another area that has changed dramatically since Aylesford’s inception is Notting Hill. Due to gentrification, Langton remarks how Portobello Road’s famed market stalls now rub shoulders with chic boutique shops on every corner. Although nostalgic about the past, the estate agent cannot deny that the Royal Borough in the present day is one of the most most desirable places to live in London and its beautiful garden squares have always been its biggest selling point.

“Two of our biggest houses that have sold recently had wonderful gardens and that adds a real premium to the value,” he says. “I have a garden in the country and I take great pleasure spending every weekend there. Not sitting in a room surrounded by people on their iPhones.” I couldn't agree with him more.

Aylesford International, 440 King’s Road, SW10 0LH 020 7351 2383, aylesford.com

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BE LV E DE R E G A R DE N S L A UNCHING 2 9 T H S EP T EMBER Belvedere Gardens is a beautifully designed building of just 97 apartments. From its commanding position on the south bank of the Thames it offers the most enchanting views of London.

Prices starting from ÂŁ1,050,000

Computer generated image is indicative only.

Prices are correct at the time of going to press.

REGISTER NOW W W W.SOUTHBANK-PL ACE.COM

+44 (0)20 7001 3600 A development by Braeburn Estates Limited Partnership

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Property News PRIME RESI provides us with a comprehensive monthly round-up of key news about the local luxury property market

Image courtesy of: Grosvenor Britain & Ireland

PCL’S PostBrexit Buoyancy As the post-Brexit dust settles, Tim Macpherson, head of London, Carter Jonas, shares his insights from the heart of prime central London As the dust settles following the UK’s decision to leave the EU, it has become apparent that despite the downturn predicted by many, the property market of prime central London (PCL) is thriving for the first time this year.

As we approached the referendum, applicants and vendors alike were hesitant to buy or sell, paralysed by uncertainty and intent on playing the waiting game. Now that the outcome is confirmed, all facets of the market are actively resuming business. Such buoyancy is encouraged by low interest rates, and with broad speculation that the Bank of England will retain its low base rate until at least 2020, borrowers are assuming their best position yet, further strengthening demand.

The slew of speculative vendors that dominated PCL back in 2014’s market peak have been replaced by a new generation of pragmatic, realistic vendors who are dealing in today’s prices, appreciate the value of selling to a committed buyer and are keen to get the transaction done, which bodes well for a continued uptick in completions. The demise of the speculative vendor has seen a reduction in time wasting in the market too, which harbours significant appeal to our motivated buyers. Best in class transactions have been concentrated in the core market of between £1million and £4million, and our Mayfair, Holland Park, Knightsbridge and Chelsea offices have each benefited from heightened interest.

Additionally, activity around the £8-10million mark is proving strong. There are stories of vendors accepting up to 10% under the asking price which, at that price point, represents a huge capital saving, not to mention a resurrection in the proportion of deals being conducted.

While some UK buyers have been entering the inner-prime market to some extent, activity has been driven by foreign capital. As the dollar and the yuan continue to perform well against the sterling, buyers trading in these currencies are seizing the opportunity to secure further discounts of approximately 10% that come from the exchange rate bias.

Beyond politics, economics and speculation, the proof ultimately is in the pudding, and market activity speaks for itself. Since the UK voted Leave, new applicants in inner PCL were up 234% in mid-August compared to the week before the referendum, while new vendors were up 98%. The market is poised to facilitate transactions and conditions are optimised to ensure sales complete.

Carter Jonas, 127 Mount Street, W1K 3NT 020 7493 0676, carterjonas.co.uk

Green Fingers A 4,200 sq ft Georgian property on Ebury Street was selected by Grosvenor – in collaboration with Westminster City Council and Historic England – as a testing ground to see just how ‘green’ heritage buildings could go.

Reconfigured by David Morley Architects, the three-unit end product is designed to reduce carbon emissions by more than 75% predevelopment, 30 years ahead of the national target of 80% by 2050. It’s also on track to become the first ever listed residential building in the UK to achieve BREEAM “Outstanding”, after already bagging the internationally recognised accolade at design stage.

Original period features have been preserved and teamed with some innovative new sustainable designs to help minimise emissions, including internal wall insulation, rainwater harvesting, PV panels and whole house ventilation and heat recovery. As for the interior, Taylor Howes subsidiary firm, th2 Designs, has dressed one of the apartments with recycled materials, selecting only British-sourced furniture and fabrics.

Grosvenor says residents will experience the full benefits, including lower energy bills, improved indoor air quality and better soundproofing. The team will continue to monitor the building’s performance, comparing it with a neighbouring property to gauge its success over time. Apartments have been launched onto the rental market, with prices starting at £995 per week for a two-bed.

Grosvenor plans to reduce carbon emissions across its London estate by 50% by 2030; considering that a quarter of those properties are listed, the Ebury Street project is an important one.

PROPERTY

PrimeQResi Journal of Prime Property

primeresi.com

Knights House, image courtesy of: Finchatton

Great Expectations nick crayson, founder of Crayson, expresses his love of London and how it is the driving force of the UK’s economy

On the Market Super-prime developer Finchatton has completed a sell-out at a rare new build project in Knightsbridge. The boutique scheme, tucked away on Cheval Place, was brought to market earlier this year, with prices ranging from £5.5m all the way up to £12.75m. Comprising one two-bed and two threebed apartments, the building has an on-site concierge providing “lifestyle management services”, while the interiors feature book-matched marble bathrooms, hand-crafted joinery, dark oak floors and grand staircases, with an overall vibe billed as “timeless sophistication”.

The largest of the three – a 4,451 sq ft duplex on the ground and lower floors with an asking price of £12.75m – went back in May, followed by the 1,601 sq ft first floor (£5.5m) and then the 2,265 sq ft penthouse (£8.35m).

Finchatton’s co-founder and director Alex Michelin comments, “The success of these apartments shows that the market for super prime properties in London remains strong despite Brexit…We have always maintained that the market for the right property in the right location will always be strong.”

Knights House reception, image courtesy of: Finchatton

s l u x u rylon d on . co. u k s

Being a Londoner through and through – I have lived here for some 50 years now – nothing is closer to my heart than the success of our great capital and particularly the highly productive Square Mile at its very heart.

At university, I majored in economic history so I hope that I am qualified to discuss the importance of London’s financial district to the city’s well-being and the importance of London in general to the continued health and success of the UK’s population and its economy.

More than half of the London Stock Exchange’s top 100 companies are headquartered here and 75% of Fortune 500 businesses have offices. According to research by Deloitte, “London has the most internationally diverse executive community in the world, attracting business leaders from 95 nationalities and with alumni working in 134 countries.” More dollars are traded here than in New York and more euros than every other European city combined. London is the epicentre for international bank lending, money markets and international debt securities.

London is the most visited city in the world by international tourists – almost 19m in 2015. Last year it was reported to have the highest non-food retail sales of any city in the world. It generates c.22% of the UK’s GDP and almost 900,000 private sector businesses are based here. It is hard to argue against the fact that the global hegemony of the City of London is the major driver of the UK’s economy. The capital produces a quarter of the country’s wealth and pays a third of its taxes. A July report from the Centre for Cities in 2014-15 found that London generated almost as much tax as the next 37 largest British cities combined, a dominance that has risen five percentage points in the past decade.

Property taxes, and the continued efforts to have them repealed or revisited, are one thing – but let’s not lose focus. If London declines everyone will lose. Like them or loathe them, the banks have made an enormous contribution to London and the UK over the past 200 years. There has been the odd ‘slip-up’ – but that is the result of the global economy failing to adjust to the new modus operandi.

There is a lot wrong with the global economy – but we in the UK have a lot to be proud of. Let’s not be afraid of staying great.

Crayson, 10 Lambton Place, W11 2SH 020 7221 1117, crayson.com

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A Place in the Sun

Discover the charms of the French Riviera with a villa in Saint-Tropez

Bonnieux, Provence Beautiful 18th Century Mas Beautiful 18th Century Mas nestled in the heart of the Luberon countryside and surrounded by vineyards. The property benefits from a spacious living space, enchanting gardens and charming views towards neighbouring villages. 2 reception rooms, 10 bedrooms, 8 bathrooms. Independent guest apartment. Set in approximately 5.4 hectares with swimming pool.

Guide price: £2,850,000

KnightFrank.com mark.harvey@knightfrank.com 020 7861 5034

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KNIGHT FRANK COVERS FRANCE

When it comes to buying or selling your property, it is important to choose an agent who knows the area inside out. Knight Frank has been involved with the sale and acquisition of prime properties throughout France for over 20 years. With a dedicated network of 21 agents covering some of the most popular destinations and a specialist team in the UK, we are the agent of choice for anyone looking to buy or sell their dream home in France.

Guide price: £1,495,000

Châteauneuf de Grasse, Côte d'Azur Carefully renovated throughout and set in a peaceful location, this charming villa benefits from lovely views towards the sea whilst enjoying superb entertaining spaces inside and out. 2 reception rooms, 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms. The property sits amid Provencal gardens with lavender and olive trees. Swimming pool.

mark.harvey@knightfrank.com 020 7861 5034 jack.harris@knightfrank.com 020 7861 1139 @KnightFrank KnightFrank.com

Guide price: £3,480,000

La Garde-Freinet, Côte d'Azur Beautifully presented villa, recently built with high quality materials and presented in an immaculate condition, located ideally within a short distance from the village of La Garde-Freinet.

Reception room, 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms. Garden with swimming pool, fully equipped summer kitchen and independent guest house.

Kensington and Chelsea - October 2016

06/09/2016 09:42:51

La Zagaleta, Marbella, Spain Beautifully presented villa Elegant villa located in La Zagaleta, enjoying panoramic views of the golf course and the Mediterranean sea. The south facing villa built over two levels boasts the usual refinements and offers a direct access to the golf course.

2 reception rooms, 6 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms. Home cinema, gymnasium, sauna. Independent guest and staff accommodation. Heated swimming pool, pool house with BBQ area and kitchen.

Guide price: €4,950,000

KnightFrank.com mark.harvey@knightfrank.com 020 7861 5034

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.com

KnightFrank.com/DMP160041

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Sierra Blanca, Marbella, Spain Outstanding luxurious villa This outstanding villa is beautifully presented throughout offering a comfortable layout, situated within a secluded and prestigious area of Marbella, on the hills of Sierra Blanca mountain. 2 reception rooms, 5 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, large cinema room. The villa is surrounded by a mature and well-presented garden with a large heated swimming pool and covered terraces.

Guide price: €3,500,000

KnightFrank.com mark.harvey@knightfrank.com 020 7861 5034

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.com

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Kensington and Chelsea - October Edition - Sierra Blanca

06/09/2016 15:49:57

Whether you seek a beach, boating or golf estate, historic home, private island or quality condominium, Sinclair Realty LLC represents Bermuda’s most beautiful homes.

We look forward to providing you with the private listing access, depth of expertise and ‘above and beyond’ service that is the Sinclair hallmark.

“The island’s only real estate company solely dedicated to the luxury market”

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Geographic Convenience • London – less than 7 hours • New York – 2 hours • Toronto – 2.5 hours • Miami – 3 hours

Quality of Life & Business • Britain’s oldest self-governing overseas territory • Pathway to British citizenship through residency • Bespoke international business center • Quality infrastructure for Family Offices • No personal or corporate income tax or capital gains tax • One of the world’s highest standards of living • Security and low crime rate • Pleasant two-season climate • Natural Beauty – pink sand beaches and turquoise waters • Home of the 2017 America’s Cup

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T +1 441 296 0278 M +1 441 334 8437 E estates@sinclairrealty.com

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08/07/2016 12:27 PM

property

Long Live Saint-Tropez Knight Frank’s Jack Harris considers Saint-Tropez’s enduring appeal as interest in local properties continues to grow Grimaud, Côte d'Azur Above/ xxxxx Guide price: €3,900,000

While Coco Chanel frequented Saint-Tropez from the 1920s onwards, the old port didn’t achieve its status as a fashionable hub until the 1950s, when French actress Brigitte Bardot thrust the coastal retreat into the limelight. Since then the town has enticed those looking for true French Riviera charm with a generous portion of glamour, and inevitably the property market followed.

The peninsula offers a wide range of lifestyles, from the bustling markets of Saint-Tropez itself, to the chic Pampelonne beach (home to the lively Club 55) and, further along the coast, the blissful Gigaro beach. This is not forgetting the rustic territory inland, which boasts typical Provençal hilltop villages (such as Grimaud), astounding views of the countryside and the Mediterranean, and somewhat of a more tranquil outlook.

With such an enduring allure, it’s no surprise that during the summer months the region blooms into an international fusion of superstars, nobility, and an unassuming faction of those at the top of their respective fields. While one might expect the festivities to draw to a close in September, the town stirs once more as the International Polo Club Saint-Tropez Gold Cup commences and the bay is scattered with sails for the annual Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez yacht race, both reinforcing the status of the town as the ultimate playground.

The mixture of its inhabitants brings with it a rich variety of tastes, which are embodied in a range of properties. Many seek the serenity of the Var countryside, where one is more likely to find significant estates with vineyards, sweeping vistas and traditional bastides. Yet plenty also look for proximity to the Mediterranean's azure waters, opting for often slighter plots, but equally impressive villas.

The global financial troubles of the late Noughties were not sympathetic to the region, and the property market experienced a slowdown of activity, which has only recently been shed. Prices remained somewhat sticky with some reductions and while one did witness a few notable sales, the mood was

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subdued. Yet since 2015 the French market has stirred with sales volumes improving and an optimistic tone in the air. The typical budget has returned to a more ‘core’ level, but transactions have been seen towards the prime and super-prime price points, all contributing to the confirmation that Saint-Tropez and its surroundings will always be desirable.

Inevitably the lead-up to the EU referendum in Britain was associated with a return to caution, but enquiry levels on the peninsula have continued to rise with a 50 per cent increase from the same period in 2015. Moreover, while many might have expected the ‘Leave’ vote to have had a negative impact on the European property markets, we have witnessed a remarkable resilience from British and international buyers. Perhaps one shouldn’t be so surprised – the region’s appeal far outweighs any potential currency or political risk.

Knight Frank has an impressive associate network across the Côte d’Azur as well as a dedicated London team, and is perfectly placed to discuss your French property plans.

Knight Frank International, 55 Baker Street, W1U, 020 7861 1139, jack.harris@knightfrank.com, knightfrank.com Le Mas Des Mûriers, Côte d'Azur - POA

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Albert Court, Prince Consort Road, SW7 2,928 SQ.FT/272 SQ.M

An elegant and beautifully appointed three bedroom apartment which has undergone an extensive and meticulous program of refurbishment. Interior designed by one of London’s leading interior designers.

Albert Court is ‘one’ of the most prestigious and highly regarded mansion buildings in London. With 24 hour porters/ concierge, adjacent to the Royal Albert Hall and a short walk to Kensington Gardens/Hyde Park.

Reception Room : Dining Room : Kitchen/Breakfast Room : Cloakroom/W.C : Laundry Room : Master Bedroom With En-Suite Bathroom : Second Bedroom With En-Suite Shower Room : Third Bedroom : Shower Room : South Facing Balcony : Air Conditioning

Price: £7,950,000

984 YEARS + SHARE OF FREEHOLD

020 7590 9339

38 Gloucester Road, SW7

www.dominiclondon.com

sales@dominiclondon.com

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I N DE PE N DE N T L I F EST Y L E CHOICE I N A WA R M & F R I E N D LY H AV E N

As the nights draw closer, it’s the perfect time to experience London’s first luxury retirement community. Battersea Place, a truly exceptional place to live offering all the benefits of a 5 Star hotel combined with a homely atmosphere.

Contemporary apartments provide ample space to relax and accommodate visiting friends and family. Enjoy cosy nights at home or indulge in our exceptional services that include concierge, high-class restaurant, billiards room, library and chauffeur-driven car. The Albert Suites nursing facility, domiciliary care and housekeeping services make up our exceptional care offering.

Call today on 020 7205 4357 to reserve your personal appointment. www.batterseaplace.co.uk BAT T E R SE A

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20 Montpelier Street Knightsbridge London SW7 1HD

RAWLINGS STREET, CRANLEY GARDENS, SW7 LYALL MEWS, SW1XSW3 4Entrance Bedrooms Hall 2Bathrooms Bedrooms |2 | Bedrooms ||4|3En Suite Bathrooms (2 en suites) WC Double Rooms| Bathrooms | |Kitchen/Reception Guest Cloakroom | 2|Reception Reception Room Room | 718 sqRoom ft||Kitchen/ Lift | EPC ERoom | Kitchen/Dining | Laundry Dining Room | StudyGarage | Utility 2,418 sq ft | Integral || 1,901 sq ftoff-street | 2 Juliet Balconies | to Additional Parking | Access Patio Garden | Gardens EPC E | EPC C Belgrave Square

An excellently proportioned and bright two An extremely attractive five within storey double bedroom apartment, An end-of-terrace freehold mews housethe west-facing house, positioned insthe heart of South Kensington.

Positioned on situated in arguably one of Belgravia’ most heart of Chelsea.

Its ideal location at the second floor (with lift) of this attractive desirable locations. This low built house the preferred southern of the street, period building, the flat end benefits from was disassembled; comprehensively rebuilt is close to the excellent shopping and wooden floors in this stunning semi open and fully modernised benefitting from the transport facilities of both Sloane Square plan living room with fully-fitted kitchen. latest technology advances including air(District & Circle lines) and the amuch The apartment further comprises master conditioning, Lutron lighting, motorised blinds, celebrated Kings Road.

This soughtbedroom with modern en suite bathroom, a built in entertainment system, underfloor after property is presently letwith until June second bedroom and additional shower heating and a fully fitted kitchen Miele 2017 and would make a superb rental room.

The property is flooded with natural and Gaggenau appliances. The property also investment for the incoming purchaser, light, offering an east-west exposure enjoys private use of an integral garageand as after which vacant possession could be dualasviews over Evelyn Gardens alongside well additional off-street parking in the mews easily attained, if desired.

Chelsea’s roof tops. and access to the prestigious Belgrave Square gardens, subject to separate negotiations.

£3,500,000, STC £1,550,000,STC STC £6,750,000

Freehold Leasehold (121 years remaining)

REDCLIFFE ROAD, SW10 CLAREVILLE GROVE EATON PLACE, SW1X MEWS, 6 Bedrooms Bathrooms Entrance HallSW7 ||22Bedrooms | 2|

Shower Room Wet | Bathrooms (1 en|Suite) |Room Kitchen/Dining/ Two Bedrooms En Suite Bathroom | Kitchen/Dining Room |ftReception Reception Room||Guest 855 sq | Basement Shower Room Cloakroom | Room |Room Family Room ||Office || Storage | Shared | Access Reception/Dining RoomTerrace Kitchen Playroom | Utility | 3,683 sq ft to Belgrave Square Gardens Utility Room | 915 sq ft | EPC E | Terrace | EPC D An elegant flat with plentiful charm, occupying

Acharacterful charming mews house idyllicallywith A six bedroom approximately 855 sq ft oftownhouse lateral space on the positioned in this quietquietly cobbled cul-de-sac, plenty of period charm, situated in third floor of this well-located handsome period prime has been recently withinChelsea. the heartThe ofproperty South Kensington. building.

Arranged over the full width of redecorated foristhe incoming in tenants and the would The property presented immaculate building, the principal reception room iscomprises flooded make an ideal family home.

The house condition and has been carefully designed a lobby withlight coatfrom cupboard, open kitchen/dining with natural its south-facing aspects throughout with Italian solid wood floors room, family room and additional reception over the street. In addition to the expansive room and furnishings.

This attractive to the contemporary rear. The sprawling space benefits sitting area, the room boasts a bespokefrom the full length of the house and from an abundance house additionally benefits south integrated kitchen and The space for dining; perfect of natural light sources. upper floors offer six westerly aspects and plentiful natural light. for open-plan entertaining.

The apartment bedrooms all with fitted storage, two bathrooms Clareville Grove Mews isThere a secure gated and a further showertoroom. is an additional awards admission a superb shared terrace, lane, located at on thethe north end of Clareville wet room located lower ground alongside positioned to the peaceful rear of the first floor, moments from bountiful amenities aStreet, utility room.

On the firstthe floor half landing, there overlooking Belgrave Mews.

Occupiers’ can isand an office with fitted filling cabinets restaurants, thedesk areaand is famous for. also enjoy accessdecked to Belgrave Square leading outexclusive onto a beautiful terrace gardens,with subject to the usualofconsents. adorned an assortment potted plants.

£4000 £1,250Per PerWeek Week £1,900,000 STC

Unfurnished Furnished (174 years remaining) Leasehold

T: T: +44 +44 (0)20 (0)20 3770 3770 3474 3474

info@nicolasvanpatrick.com info@nicolasvanpatrick.com

THE HEIGHT OF LUXURY The UK’s tallest residential brick tower brings Manhattan-style living to Vauxhall.

Surrounded by an acre of landscaped public open space, Keybridge is just walking distance from a Zone 1 transport hub, offering unparalleled connectivity across the capital, with London’s best schools and universities on its doorstep. Enjoy local life at your leisure with its distinctive art scene, vibrant restaurants and sophisticated bars.

GYM • SPA, SAUNA AND STEAM ROOM • 15M POOL • 24-HOUR CONCIERGE • KEYBRIDGE CLUB LOUNGE

VISIT OUR TWO-BED SHOW APARTMENT & MARKETING SUITE TODAY: 80 SOUTH LAMBETH ROAD, LONDON SW8 1RG +44 (0)20 3813 2793 | SALES@KEYBRIDGELONDON.COM | KEYBRIDGELONDON.COM Studio apartments from £575,000* • 1 bed apartments from £680,000* 2 bed apartments from £865,000* • 3 bed apartments from £1,562,500*

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A JOINT VENTURE BETWEEN FABRICA BY A2DOMINION AND MOUNT ANVIL ON BEHALF OF KEYBRIDGE HOUSE LLP

*Prices correct at time of going to print and CGIs are indicative only.

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05/09/2016 11:09

The Three Musketeers Strutt & Parker’s Kensington and Notting Hill aficionados Rupert Wiggin, James Gow and Miles Meacock share their expertise on the Royal Borough with Ellen Millard Above/ xxxxx

“We realised the other day that we’ve spent more time with each other than we have our wives,” Rupert Wiggin, head of Strutt & Parker’s Kensington office, jokes. He’s sitting in a Notting Hill-based penthouse apartment with his colleagues, James Gow, partner at the Kensington office, and Miles Meacock, head of the company’s Notting Hill branch. The trio have worked together since 1999, when the Kensington Church Street office opened. Since 2011, Meacock has been based in Westbourne Grove, but the three still work closely together and their chemistry is palpable. “We know exactly what each other is going to say before they even say it,” Wiggin laughs.

Experts in their respective areas, you’d be hard pushed to find three men better versed in the goings-on of the Royal Borough. Meacock is the only one who has worked in both the Kensington and Notting Hill offices and agrees that the two areas, despite being in such close proximity, are completely different.

“Kensington is far more traditional and old school, with a lot of classical architecture,” he explains. “Notting Hill is a much more mixed postcode; you

James Gow, Miles Meacock and Rupert Wiggin in Prince Edward Mansions Photography: Sarel Jansen

can go into a traditional terraced house in Notting Hill and meet an English family who have lived there for 30 years and the next house could have a modern art collector with the most bizarre interior that you’ve ever seen. If you saw it in Kensington it might be more shocking, but nothing seems to shock people in Notting Hill.”

The Prince Edward Mansions apartment that our interview is held in certainly shows off the area’s arty side. The duplex four bedroom penthouse boasts enviable views of Notting Hill and a stunning interior created by developers Northacre and interior design team N Studio. “It’s quite unusual to have a red brick Victorian mansion building in Notting Hill, so this is a rarity,” Meacock tells me. “It’s also quite unusual for this part of London to have a developer such as Northacre take a penthouse like this and modernise it to such an amazing standard.”

While Notting Hill is appealing to buyers’ sartorial sides, Kensington is offering properties on a more traditional scale. Gow and Wiggin are particularly

PROPERTY

excited about one property that is about to come on to the market, which was the former home of a rather significant figure in British history. “Sir Winston Churchill lived and died there,” Gow says excitedly of the 5,763 sq ft property on Hyde Park Gate. “It’s a very special house that’s a stone’s throw from Kensington Gardens.” Needless to say, the vast seven-bedroom home would be impressive even without its historical background, offering four floors of large, open-plan living spaces and a 55 ft west-facing garden.

Kensington and Notting Hill are certainly worlds apart when it comes to taste and style, but the team agree that the stark contrast between the two areas is part of the Royal Borough’s charm and admit that, despite working in such different locations, the two offices often join forces. “There’s a terrific crossover between us. We cross reference our clients all of the time,” Gow concedes. “The key reason why we’re so different to our competitors is that we have worked together for a very long time, so we absolutely trust each other 100 per cent. If I pass on a client to another office I know that they’ll be looked after well.”

Much of the business that Strutt & Parker receives is generated through word of mouth, with Meacock admitting that 70 per cent of his clients come via referrals. “Reputation is key for us. London talks,” he says. “We love getting new business too, but the majority of it comes from somebody telling somebody else that we’ve done a good job, and that’s heart-warming.”

“We always say to our teams that you’ve got to treat your clients as if you’re looking after your parents,” Wiggin agrees. “We tell our clients that we are on call seven days a week, and we are.” The three men laugh as they recount one particular instance when Wiggin had to leave a family meal on Boxing Day to attend to a client emergency. “It wouldn’t have crossed any of our minds not to do the same thing. It’s just about going that extra mile.”

When it comes to reasons why they love the Royal Borough, the list is exhaustive to say the least, including “the schools, architecture, parks, gardens, access to all of the great shopping centres and green spaces”, and they all agree that Kensington and Notting Hill stand out in the borough as two areas that offer a unique community feel. “The Rugby Portobello Trust, which Strutt & Parker is heavily involved in, is a real testament to the area because it involves so many local residents who support it,” Wiggin tells me. “There aren’t many areas in the Royal Borough where you have a whole community supporting one charity. In Knightsbridge and Belgravia you probably wouldn’t even know your neighbours, so I think that’s what is so special about Kensington and Notting Hill; there’s a very close community.”

When it comes to the state of the market, the trio are quick to tell me that very little has changed over the last few months aside from typical seasonal fluctuations, brushing off any rumours that Brexit has had a damaging effect and conceding that the only real problem has been brought about by stamp duty, which has prevented a number of people from moving house. They assure me that anyone who is nervous about buying in the capital needn’t be as property in the city is always a safe bet, no matter what the rest of the market is saying.

“London is a fabulous place to live, politically, economically and culturally, and if you’re buying for medium to long-term then there really is no better place to buy,” Gow smiles. The only question is, Notting Hill or Kensington?

103 Kensington Church Street, W8; 303 Westbourne Grove, W11, struttandparker.com

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

Hyde Park Gate

Hyde Park Gate Garden

Prince Edward Mansions

181

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Thurloe Place, South Kensington, SW7

A gorgeous one bedroom apartment with its own front entrance and outside space in South Kensington.

£650 per week* Furnished

480 sq ft (44 sq m) Reception room | Kitchen | Bedroom | Bathroom | Garden | EPC rating TBC

South Kensington 020 7581 7000 southken@struttandparker.com

* The following Tenant charges may apply prior to tenancy commencement: Tenancy Agreement £222 (inv VAT) Credit Reference per application £54 (inc VAT). All advertised prices are excluded and other associated services.

Palace Gate, Kensington, W8

An outstanding four bedroom maisonette with direct lift access and a stunning private terrace.

£2,750 per week* Unfurnished plus charges

2,165 sq ft (201 sq m) Drawing room | Dining room | Kitchen | Master bedroom with en suite bathroom | Three further bedrooms | Shower room | Terrace | Lift | EPC rating E

Kensington 020 3813 9411

Kensington.lettings@struttandparker.com

* The following Tenant charges may apply prior to tenancy commencement: Tenancy Agreement £222 (inv VAT) Credit Reference per application £54 (inc VAT). All advertised prices are excluded and other associated services.

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Cornwall Gardens, South Kensington SW7

A well-presented South facing apartment within this white stucco fronted building. Comprised of two double bedrooms, a separate kitchen and of particular mention, a grand south facing reception room overlooking the garden square.

ÂŁ1,750,000 Share of Freehold

1,035 sq ft (96 sq m) Entrance | Reception room | Kitchen | Master Bedroom | Second Bedroom | Bathroom | access to communal gardens | Vault Storage | EPC rating C

South Kensington 020 7581 7000 southken@struttandparker.com

Cadogan Lane, Belgravia SW1

Well-presented three bedroom house with garage and private garden.

1,479 sq ft (137 sq m) Entrance hall | Kitchen/breakfast room | Reception room | Master bedroom suite | Two further bedrooms | Two further bathrooms | Guest WC | Patio Garden | Garage | Loft/storage space | EPC rating B

Knightsbridge 020 3813 9270 knightsbridge@struttandparker.com

ÂŁ1,950,000 Leasehold

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Bramerton Street, Chelsea SW3

A superb white stucco fronted three bedroom house ideally situated on a particularly quiet and leafy street off the King’s Road.

1,603 sq ft (148 sq m) Entrance hall | Reception room | Kitchen/ breakfast room | Master bedroom with en suite bathroom | Two further bedrooms | Bathroom | Garden | Roof terrace | EPC rating E

Chelsea 020 3813 9448 chelsea@struttandparker.com

ÂŁ3,200,000 Freehold

Onslow Gardens, South Kensington SW7

A beautifully appointed family maisonette with direct access to the glorious communal gardens in this revered pocket of South Kensington.

2,412 sq ft (224 sq m) Entrance hall | Reception room | Kitchen | Study / Entertainment room | Master bedroom with en suite bathroom and separate shower plus dressing room | Two further bedrooms with en suite bathrooms | Cloakroom | Utility room | Patio | Direct access to communal gardens | EPC rating C

Chelsea SW10 020 3813 9587 kensington@struttandparker.com

ÂŁ5,750,000 Leasehold