Residents
JOURNAL
This Residents’ Journal represents a fresh, innovative approach to local media, whilst retaining a traditional feel. We will deliver intelligent editorial with integrity and depth on subjects that matter to the residents and business community. Published on a monthly basis with the kind support of a select handful of relevant advertisers, we will present regular editorial contributions from prominent local residents and members of the independent local business community, as well as seasoned journalists who live locally. If you live or work in these areas and have a particular interest in contributing to the Residents’ Journal, we would be delighted to hear from you. Please email us at contact@residentsjournal.co.uk; or telephone us on 020 7987 4320.
Giles Ellwood Publisher
Proudly published by
Dear Resident, As we emerge from hibernation into the sunshine, the garden becomes the focus over the coming months. With the RHS Chelsea Flower Show fast approaching, Jennifer Mason meets a local husband and wife team hoping to go for gold this year, with a garden design close to their hearts. Patrick and Sarah Collins are looking to raise much-needed funds and awareness for the Tooting-based charity First Touch, which helps provide vital care and support to premature babies and their families. Flick to page 8 to find out more. Now that the summer is just around the corner, those who have a spate of important social occasions coming up and are fretting about what to wear, fear not; Teddington’s Mela Mela Vintage is a treasure trove of truly unique outfits. Jennifer goes to try some of the dresses on for size when she pops by to meet the owner, Mel Ellis. Read the full interview on page 23. Ahead of the Aegon Championships next month, Annabel Harrison talks to Ross Hutchins, the tennis pro who counts Andy Murray as a close friend, as he prepares for his role as the tournament’s new director. Meanwhile, for any budding amateur sports men and women, Ozel Rowland quizzes the founders of Summer Social about the inspiration behind the ever-popular sporting and socialising event due to hit Richmond. Turn to page 28 for the full story.
The Hawaiian Goose (or nene) in Hawaii, image by Sonja Kaessmann. Find out more about how the London WWT Wetlands Centre in Barnes helped to save this endangered species on page 5
Distributed to selected homes in the Borough of Richmond upon Thames, as well as Wimbledon, Putney, Barnes and Coombe, the Residents’ Journal is a platform for locals to discuss issues and events that matter. Please do not hesitate to get in contact
with your news, email contact@residentsjournal.co.uk.
Assistant Editor Lauren Romano Main Editorial Contributor Jennifer Mason Editorial Intern Ozel Rowland
Editor-in-Chief Lesley Ellwood Managing Director Eren Ellwood
Production Hugo Wheatley Alex Powell Oscar Viney
Client Relationship Director Felicity Morgan-Harvey
General Manager Fiona Fenwick
Publishing Director Giles Ellwood
Communications Director Loren Penney
Senior Designer Grace Linn
Associate Publisher Sophie Roberts
Head of Finance Elton Hopkins
Members of the Professional Publishers Association
Residents’ Journal
NOTEBOOK Keep your finger on the pulse with our round-up of local news
WWT London Wetland Centre
KEW Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
The Glasshouse
Barnes Common
NORTH SHEEN
Richmond Theatre
Putney Lower Common
BARNES Wandsworth Park
RICHMOND The Poppy Factory
PUTNEY
National Tennis Centre
EAST SHEEN
The Bingham Hotel Twickenham Stadium
TWICKENHAM Strawberry Hill House
STRAWBERRY HILL
Ham House & Garden
Richmond Park
Putney Heath
HAM Wimbledon Windmill
Wimbledon Common
WIMBLEDON
All England Lawn Tennis Club
COOMBE TEDDINGTON
New Wimbledon Theatre
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SW15
CHELSEA FLOWER
SHOW COCKTAILS Hide & Seed, a brand-new bar and restaurant recently opened in Putney, is celebrating the Chelsea Flower Show (20-24 May) by launching three bespoke cocktails inspired by this year’s exhibits. ‘Sweet Violet’ is a delicious concoction made using violet liqueur and sweet rose syrup, enlivened with vodka, zesty lemon and cranberry juices to create a sweet and tangy drink. ‘Elderflower Blush’ combines bittersweet Aperol and gin, with quintessentially English rhubarb liqueur and elderflower syrup. ‘Lavender Meadow’ uses a well-known combination of rum, cane syrup and lemon juice, but with the added twist of soothing lavender.
£9 per cocktail, available during the CFS. Hide & Seed, 52-54 Upper Richmond Road, SW15 2RN 020 8874 1598 (hideandseed.co.uk)
Image by Sonja Kaessmann
SW13
TW9
BORIS FOR LOCAL
BUSINESSES
GROWTH OF A GAGGLE
The WWT London Wetland Centre is celebrating the success of one of its rarest species, the Hawaiian goose, also known as a nene. Pronounced ‘nay-nay’, the breed was driven to near extinction in the early 1950s by which time only 30 individuals were left in the world, all on Hawaii. London Wetland Centre founder Sir Peter Scott brought a pair to the UK and bred them here until a large enough flock flourished that he was able to return the birds to their original island home of Maui. Around 2,500 birds now live on Hawaii, Maui, Molokai and Kauai islands, and last month a pair were spotted on Oahu – the first time they’ve been seen there since the 1700s.
To see the nene geese in their London habitat, visit the WWT London Wetland Centre, Queen Elizabeth’s Walk, Barnes, SW13 9WT (wwt.org.uk/London)
Janet Garcia, local resident and owner of artisan coffee and food retailer Cook & Garcia, was invited to a reception hosted by London Mayor Boris Johnson at City Hall last month. The event recognised those contributing to the communities of Richmond, Kingston and Hounslow. The Mayor stressed in his speech the importance of new local businesses in supporting the economy, before spending time talking to attendees. Janet Garcia told the Journal: ‘Boris was even more charismatic in person than he appears on TV. He was happy to give his support to Cook & Garcia as one of the few independent retailers in Richmond. We gave him one of our mugs, and invited him to try our trademark hot roast wraps next time he’s in Richmond.’
25 The Quadrant, Richmond, TW9 1DJ 020 8948 7777 (cookandgarcia.co.uk)
Image by Nick Cottrell
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Residents’ Journal
TW10
A VERY GREEN
OPEN DAY
Images courtesy of petershamopengardens.org
On 1 June, ten beautiful private gardens in Petersham will be open to visitors in aid of the Petersham Environment Trust – a charity dedicated to funding environmental causes in the local area. Funds raised this year will go towards restoring and maintaining the muchneglected Petersham Lodge Woods – a natural habitat for many wild and endangered species. Teas and delicious homemade cakes will be on sale in the Village Hall and at Petersham Lodge from midday, and if the weather stays fine there will be a barbecue outside the Village Hall.
Advance tickets £8 (contact jo_bradley@ btconnect.com) or £10 on the day (free for under 16s). Gardens open 11am-5pm, last entry 4pm (petershamopengardens.org)
MOTH BE VIGILANT Richmond Council has commissioned specialist pest controllers to fight the huge numbers of unwelcome Oak Processionary Moths that have once on Commissi of the Forestry again returned to Image courtesy our woodlands. The council is calling on all residents to be on the lookout for these wee beasties that are hugely -6-
damaging to the borough’s beautiful green spaces. As interaction with the creatures’ hairs is hazardous to human (and animal) health, due to the irritant protein that they carry, residents are warned not to handle the pests, or disturb their nests.
If you think you have spotted Oak Processionary Moths or one of their nests, call the council’s Parks and Trees team on 0845 612 2660, or email parks&trees@richmond.gov.uk
WORKING TOGETHER
© Alison Henley
SW19
MERTON
MURRAY
Andy Murray is a popular fellow in this part of the world, especially since his epic Wimbledon win last year. To celebrate this achievement, Murray, along with fellow tennis greats Virginia Wade, Ann HaydonJones and Angela Mortimer, have been awarded the title of Honorary Freeman of the Borough by Merton Council. The decision was made in recognition of their achievements in winning a singles title at the Wimbledon Championships.
(merton.gov.uk)
HOME ALONE In a bid to tackle homelessness, boost the local economy and reduce social risks and nuisance, owners of properties left empty in the Borough of Kingston face being forced to sell them, or have them bought by the council. So far, more than 800 empty homes have been regenerated by the council since 2010; and now, due to the 300 or so empty houses still attracting unwanted attention in the borough, an action plan to target even more buildings left vacant for six months or more has been agreed. Councillor Patricia Bamford, Kingston Council’s Lead Member for Better Homes, said: ‘We can’t let hundreds of much-needed homes go to waste. We want to slash the number of long-term empty properties in the borough and increase the supply of decent, affordable houses for people who need them.’
(kingston.gov.uk)
The boroughs of Richmond, Kingston, Merton and Sutton have secured a £485,000 Transformation Challenge Award by pledging to work together to continue transforming the way local services are run. Lord True, Leader of Richmond Council, told the Journal: ‘I’m glad that we are yet again at the forefront of joint borough working and that this has been recognised at the highest level. This additional funding will ensure that not only are we achieving greater resilience for the future, but we will also be making essential savings for our local taxpayers.’ Councillor Stephen Alambritis, Leader of Merton Council, added: ‘Partnership working is at the very heart of how Merton operates as a council, for which we have been nationally recognised. Our residents rightly expect us to pursue every opportunity to manage their money wisely. So working closely with our south London neighbours and exploring ways of sharing services makes good business sense.’
richmond.gov.uk; merton.gov.uk kingston.gov.uk; sutton.gov.uk
X MARKS THE SPOT We would like to remind residents that they need to be on the current electoral roll in order to vote in the upcoming Local Council and European Parliamentary elections on Thursday 22 May. This is an opportunity not only to select local councillors but also to choose who will be the Member of the European Parliament (MEP) for the London Region. If you are not already registered to vote, the deadline is the end of the first week in May – so contact your local council using the details below to register in time, or to register for a postal or proxy vote.
Richmond Council: 020 8891 1411 (richmond.gov.uk) Wandsworth Council: 020 8871 6000 (wandsworth.gov.uk/vote) Merton Council: 020 8545 3407 (merton.gov.uk/council/voting) Kingston Council: 020 8547 5026 (kingston.gov.uk/info)
A FITTING TRIBUTE Across the borough, poppy meadows have been sown to mark the centenary of the beginning of the First World War. By this summer, these green spaces will have grown into meadows which will regenerate annually. The meadows have been planted at: • Hampton Common, the entrance from Oak Avenue • St Albans Gardens, Hampton Court Riverside • The grass triangle by the hall in Murray Park, Whitton • Manor Road Recreation Ground, Teddington • Mortlake Green, Mortlake • Old Deer Park, Richmond, on the south/west-facing bank
Poppy meadows will continue to be sown at other locations in 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018 to commemorate the centenary of WWI. -7-
Words / Kate Jennion
Residents’ Journal
The
MIDAS TOUCH Jennifer Mason talks to local landscape architect Patrick Collins and his wife Sarah about charity, creativity and the RHS Chelsea Flower Show
P
ord Patrick & Sarah by Emma Durnf
atrick Collins grew up in a household full of keen gardeners. In a remote part of Cornwall, his skills and enthusiasm developed, eventually leading to a botany degree followed by a masters in Landscape Design. ‘Being a landscape architect allows me to combine my love of art and plants,’ Patrick tells me. ‘When I’m designing a garden, it’s all about the plants.’ Patrick’s obvious passion for his work is reflected in his reputation for creating unique and beautiful landscapes tailored to the specific qualities and conditions of each garden site. It’s this attention to detail that has earned him praise (and prizes) from the judges at the Chelsea Flower Show since 2004, when his first show garden won the silver gilt award. Since then, Patrick’s
Artist’s impression of the 2014 First Touch Garden, by John Kingsley Dobson
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2007, 2009 and 2011 gardens have all won prestigious gold medals. But it was his 2013 gold medalwinning garden that was perhaps closest to Patrick’s heart. Designed to support local charity First Touch (of which his wife Sarah is director), which aids the neonatal unit at St George’s Hospital in Tooting, this garden brought Patrick and Sarah together professionally as well as personally. ‘Our daughter Isabel was born three months early and was cared for at the neonatal unit,’ Sarah tells me. ‘When she turned three, I began volunteering as a fundraiser for the charity, and in 2004 I agreed to help manage it,’ she says. ‘The money raised makes a massive difference to babies and their families. The charity funds a variety of life-changing things; from vital medical equipment costing tens of thousands of pounds, which helps give babies the best possible chance – to funding specialist training for the amazing nursing staff that is not covered by the NHS – as well as £10 Christmas stockings for all babies at the unit on Christmas Day. Sometimes it’s the smallest things that make a huge difference.’ The 2013 garden certainly helped to raise awareness of the charity’s importance. ‘It became a talking point for prematurity issues,’ Sarah remembers. ‘We had lots of people coming to the garden to talk to us about their own experiences, or that of a friend or family member. It’s extraordinary how many people this issue affects.’ Coverage in national and local newspapers, as well as on the BBC, led to a number of donations towards particular schemes and pieces of equipment. ‘With the 2014 garden, we’re hoping to support the campaign to raise £10,000 to refurbish the parents’ sitting room and the Quiet Room at the neonatal unit,’ Sarah tells me. ‘We are also seeking funds for specialist medical equipment, including a
Image by Emma Durnford
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Residents’ Journal
Image by Emma Durnford
Images courtesy of First Touch & ShutterBaby Photography
A worthy cause First Touch is a charity dedicated to supporting the neonatal unit at St George’s Hospital in Tooting, which cares for 600 sick and premature babies each year. First Touch, Neonatal Unit, St George’s Hospital Blackshaw Road, SW17 0QT 020 8944 0131 (first-touch.org.uk)
Sometimes it’s the smallest things that make a huge difference scanner probe for babies with heart issues, equipment for transporting babies between hospitals, and a number of state-of-the-art monitors to check babies’ oxygen levels and heart rates.’ The dedication and focus of the charity’s fundraising team is clear – although it is only a small charity, First Touch raises more than £200,000 each year, and hopes to help as many families affected by prematurity as possible. In the past year, it has been able to fund a state of-the-art Giraffe incubator, as well as two portable ventilators and three blood pressure monitors. ‘Not bad for a very small local charity,’ Sarah points out.
I ask Patrick what made him think of designing a garden to support the charity. ‘There’s a very definite link between nurturing plants and nurturing babies… they are both cared for in nurseries!’ he laughs. ‘Seriously though, my eldest daughter Isabel was the inspiration for that garden – and she is for this year’s one too,’ he continues. ‘My family home in the Luxulyan Valley in Cornwall, with its rocks, waterfall and streams, also helped give me ideas – the water feature in my 2014 First Touch garden represents the journey that premature babies and their families - 10 -
undertake. It has a turbulent source, but becomes gentler further downstream as the journey progresses.’ Just like the trials faced by premature babies and their families, the process of creating a medal-winning garden is long and often stressful. ‘It helps in both situations if you have the right people supporting you,’ Patrick tells me. ‘Creating a garden starts almost immediately after the previous show ends. We begin by coming up with a concept and trying to do something a little bit different that hasn’t been seen at Chelsea before. Crafting a Chelsea garden is all about teamwork, so it’s important that you have an experienced contractor to build the garden from that initial design.’ But the road to a gold medal is rarely smooth sailing. ‘The only thing I can ever guarantee about Chelsea is that I don’t sleep on the Monday night, as I’m thinking about the medals being awarded the next day,’ Patrick says, ruefully. ‘But the build-up to the garden is something very special; late nights of highs and lows with an amazing group of people. To be part of a team creating a garden from nothing in a very short time-scale is a wonderful experience – and to be accepted at Chelsea, the world’s
most famous and arguably best flower show, is an achievement in itself.’ Did you ever think you had a real shot at winning the gold medal, I ask. ‘Because we created the 2013 garden with basically no budget at all (and a lot of good will) we were concerned that we wouldn’t achieve the impact of other gardens with typical budgets of £250,000 to £1 million,’ Patrick answers. ‘To win any medal is a huge honour. To win a gold is indescribable. To be awarded that was a great boost to the whole team and to everyone who donated their time, plants and energy.’ Being a part of the Chelsea Flower Show must be a pretty incredible experience in itself. Around 157,000 visitors explore the show and meet its 500 contributors over the four-day run each year – with the BBC broadcasting around 11 hours of coverage, reaching an average of 2.2 million viewers; crucial if you’re trying to drum up support for a charity close to your heart. ‘The Chelsea Flower Show is to design and horticulture what the Olympics is to sport or the World Cup is to football,’ says Patrick. ‘Plus you get a visit from the Royal Family, which doesn’t happen every day! Last year we were presented to the Queen, which was quite extraordinary.’ B&Q Garden CFS 2011 co-design Laurie Chetwood
The colours and scents are a beautiful assault on the senses I imagine coming as an exhibitor, and seeing the show as a visitor, must be very different experiences. ‘It’s much less stressful to attend as a visitor rather than as a designer; you have less at stake!’ Patrick agrees. ‘I’ve been invited to Chelsea each year when I am not exhibiting, and it’s always fascinating to see the incredible gardens from the world’s top designers – I’m a big fan of Cleve West and Tom StuartSmith in particular. You also have time to admire the spectacular displays in the Great Pavilion; the colours and scents are a beautiful assault on the senses. There are always new plants to discover, which makes horticulture very exciting and inspiring.’ Having a whole festival dedicated to your passion in life must be heady indeed. ‘We spend the entire day in the garden talking to visitors about the design and individual plants,’ Patrick smiles. ‘Chelsea visitors are passionate about gardens; we learn a lot from them too.’ With a whole host of horticultural experts, celebrities and garden enthusiasts among the Chelsea Flower Show visitors, I’m sure a wealth of information and insider trade secrets does the rounds at the Royal Hospital Chelsea each year. I wish Patrick the best of luck with ‘A Garden for First Touch at St. George’s’ which will be exhibiting at this year’s show – from the plans and impressions I’ve been able to see, even to an amateur like me (who can barely keep a pot plant alive) it looks remarkable. But one final question remains: does Patrick plan to enter another garden in the future? ‘I said that my fifth one in 2013 was my last,’ Patrick laughs. ‘And yet, here I am, designing a sixth a year later…’ n
For more information on Patrick’s design services, call 07792 930 303 or visit patrickcollins-design.co.uk.
RHS Chelsea Flower Show This year’s Chelsea Flower Show takes place from 20-24 May at the Royal Hospital Chelsea, Royal Hospital Road, SW3 4SL. All-day tickets start from £45 for members and £58 for non-members, 20 & 21 May are members only (rhs.org.uk)
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Residents’ Journal
Game, Set,
Match Ahead of the Aegon Championships this June, Wimbledon resident, new Tournament Director and tennis pro Ross Hutchins speaks to Annabel Harrison about the event
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The Aegon Championships was the first main tour tournament you played; what particular memories stand out from that experience? I had played well in challenger tournaments – the rung of events below the main ATP Tour – and this was a big step up. My partner Jamie Delgado and I were due to play an outside court match against Mardy Fish and Amir Delic, but then we got moved to Centre Court. I was nervous, because this was my first match on tour and it was such a great opportunity; I remember that the court suddenly seemed huge compared to what I was used to. We won in two sets, which was a big win. To have had that experience at my favourite tournament is something I will never forget.
The Aegon Championships is one of the most prestigious tennis tournaments in the world; it has a wonderful history
Was accepting the role of Tournament Director an easy decision? It was very easy. The Aegon Championships is one of the most prestigious tennis tournaments in the world; it has a wonderful history, with many of the greatest players ever engraved on the Roll of Honour, including Rod Laver, John McEnroe, Boris Becker and Pete Sampras – plus the courts are as good as any you’ll find. It is also one of the players’ favourite tournaments. I had my first professional ATP match win at the Aegon Championships. I’ve practised at The Queen’s Club from an early age, and I even had the opportunity to face Stefan Edberg on the practice courts when I was 12 – so it has always been a special place for me. I love the new challenge of this role, thinking about ways to improve the experience for spectators and players and trying to make it the best it can be.
How much of a support was your best friend Andy Murray during your treatment and recovery? He was fantastic. As soon as I told him, he said: ‘You’re going to get through this, you’re going to become a better person and a better tennis player. You’re going to be far stronger, mentally.’ When he won the title in Brisbane (shortly after I had told him) and he dedicated it to me, it was very special. I hadn’t told the public yet, and Andy then saying it made it the perfect time for me to confirm I had Hodgkin lymphoma. Throughout the time I was receiving treatment he was researching the condition, sending me messages about people he heard had recovered and come back stronger. Andy is my best friend. He is loyal, genuine and great fun to be around. If you can be objective, what are your predictions for Wimbledon this year? Those players that have done well in the past will always do well on grass because it is such a specialist surface. That’s why Andy has such a good chance – he is the defending champion both at Queen’s and Wimbledon, so he automatically goes in as one of the big favourites. Then, aside from former champions, you look at players that have a big game, those that can bulldoze people the way that Berdych did when he reached the Wimbledon final in 2010. He will be at Queen’s this year, too, and it shows how seriously he is taking the grass court season. I would also look at young Grigor Dimitrov, who is probably the most talented of the next generation. Perhaps it will be his time to break through at the very highest level.
Did your involvement in organising the Rally Against Cancer help to prepare you for it? It did: that was when I realised just how special the event is. When I got involved with the Rally Against Cancer, I was struck by just how much went on behind the scenes. Chris Kermode, the long-time Tournament Director, invited me to join him in meetings, and I embraced the opportunity to learn from him. When he moved on to head the ATP and the Tournament Director’s job became available, I immediately had a huge desire to do it. How did it feel to beat Matosevic and Przysieszny in your first match at a Grand Slam tournament since your diagnosis with Hodgkin lymphoma? It was a big moment and very important to myself and Colin Fleming, my doubles partner. Coming back from such a long lay-off, you never know how and when your first win will come. I hoped I would come back strong, but there is always doubt until you put that first win on the board. It was a fantastic atmosphere, we went a set down – almost lost – but pulled it out, so it meant
a huge amount to us. A lot was made of the fact that I had returned to the sport after my illness and won a Grand Slam match, but as far as I was concerned, I had been a professional tennis player again for a couple of months, and wanted to be treated the same as everyone else.
What do you love most about Wimbledon as an area? I have lived here all my life; I went to school in Wimbledon at King’s College, and I love the social aspect of the area, how relaxed everything is. Everyone always thinks there is chaos during the Championships, but the Wimbledon I know is full of coffee shops, restaurants and families walking dogs. I spend about two hours a day on Wimbledon Common when I am at home, running and walking my dog. I play on the two golf courses, I like going to the Brew coffee shop and I eat at the Sticks and Sushi restaurant at least twice a week! It is my home, and I love it. n
All photographs courtesy of Getty Images
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The Aegon Championships takes place 9-15 June at The Queen’s Club. For tickets, go to aegonchampionships.com
Residents’ Journal
Rosantica Himalaya Gold-dipped Agate Necklace, £445
(net-a-porter.com)
American Vintage Cotton Jersey Jacket, £115
(harveynichols.com)
Estela Leather Peep Toe Wedge, £180
(lkbennett.com)
McQ Alexander McQueen Animal Print Silk Scarf
£190 (harrods.com)
Etro + V&A Gold-tone Agate Clip Earrings
£190 (net-a-porter.com)
Le Specs + Craig & Karl Roundabout Round-frame Sunglasses, £60 (net-a-porter.com)
A fresh look
Pistol Panties Ashley swimsuit, £159
(pistolpanties.com)
Cool mints and bright yellows make for a vibrant yet chic spring style
Tory Burch Designer-stamped Gold-plated Earrings, £33
(theoutnet.com)
Eliza J Printed Pleated Maxi Dress, £160
(houseoffraser.co.uk)
Dixie Bag in Limeade
£45 (fiorelli.com)
Pink & White Diamond Dragonfly Brooch, POA
(tiffany.co.uk)
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BESPOKE DESIGN SINCE 1986 y r C
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5 Manfred Road, Putney, SW15 2RS | 020 3740 7620 | www.marytreacydesigns.co.uk | mary@marytreacydesigns.co.uk
Residents’ Journal
The Putney Exchange by LIP Putney member Leonard Caudrey
Image by LIP Putney Member Zara Sumpton
A day
Bendemeer Road Putney by LIP member Andrew Wilson
in the life of
Side-planks at The House of Yoga by LIP Putney member Tammy Marlar
Image by LIP Putney member Nick Dale
PUTNEY Local photographers are showcasing Putney life at the Wandsworth Fringe
T
he Putney satellite group of London Independent Photography, chaired by local expert Andrew Wilson, have opted to upgrade their annual exhibition by taking part in the Fringe of the Wandsworth Arts Festival. The group decided that this year’s theme for their work should be indicative of the beautiful Putney area, so they chose to capture A Day in the Life of Putney – on iconic Boat Race day. Despite the less than inviting conditions on the day, 16 photographers from the Putney LIP group catalogued life in the local area as they found it – from the race itself, to everyday events and interactions happening on 6 April 2014. Andrew Wilson told the Journal: ‘The Wandsworth Arts Festival is a huge event for our area and we are really excited to be a part of it.’ Putney estate agents Warren offered their financial support to the project. Director Mike Crowther commented: ‘We are really pleased to be helping Andrew and his group of photographers. We like to be a little different with our marketing, and supporting this local event fits in perfectly with that.’ The group will exhibit at the Exchange Shopping Centre in Putney on 16, 17 and 18 May. n
You may be familiar with Andrew’s work as he is the author of a series of local books, Wild about Putney and Wild about Battersea. To find out more about Andrew’s photography group, visit londonphotography.org.uk As told to Jennifer Mason
The Wandsworth Arts Festival & Fringe A truly local festival celebrating the strength of south west London’s high streets, the Wandsworth Arts Festival & Fringe will showcase a diverse mix of art genres; from theatre to literature, photography to creative workshops and much, much more. 2-18 May, at locations across the borough. For more information on events and ticket prices visit wandsworthartsfestival.com or browse the facebook page facebook.com/wandsworthfringe
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THE SOCIAL EVENT OF THE SUMMER BOOK AN EXCLUSIVE VIP AREA IN OUR MAHIKI COCONUT BAR
www.polointheparklondon.com For General Admission: 0844 248 5069
PITP RunWIld new.indd 2
For VIP & Hospitality Tickets oliver@cityevents.uk.com 020 7936 5284
24/04/2014 13:20
Residents’ Journal
The Calendar A selection of the very best events happening in the area
3-4 & 10-11 MAY
6 & 7 MAY
6-17 MAY
CONTEMPORARY EXHIBITION
THE TASTE TEST
MEMORIES
A unique opportunity to learn about olive oil, these one-day courses run by Cretan gourmet health food company Liquid Gold will cover how to buy the best product, explain the different grades and qualities of olive oil, explore its health benefits and instruct budding connoisseurs on the best methods of tasting. Run by olive oil expert and author Charles Quest-Ritson and Liquid Gold founder Dr Stavia Blunt.
CATS, one of the longest-running and best-loved shows in West End and Broadway history, comes to the New Wimbledon Theatre this month. Andrew Lloyd Webber’s enchanting musical score fuses with verse heavily influenced by T.S. Eliot in an entertaining blend of fantasy, drama and romance. This is an excellent opportunity to re-live old memories and introduce the next generation of youngsters to the Jellicle life.
To celebrate the 900th anniversary of the founding of Merton Priory, a group of contemporary artists will be showcasing their new work, in response to the theme of rivers and relics. During two weekends in May, the exhibition will take place in the archaeological remains of Merton Priory Chapter House. Dave Saxby, senior archaeologist at the Museum of London, will be present to answer questions, as will one of the exhibition’s artists.
Merton Priory Chapter House, Watermill Way SW19 2RD. For more information, visit facebook.com/riversandrelics.exhibition
Tickets £180 (including refreshments and lunch), 10.30am-4.30pm, Liquid Gold Cave 9 St Helena Boathouses, Riverside, Richmond TW9 1NR, 020 8973 2249. To register visit liquidgoldproducts.co.uk/oliveoilcourse.htm
Tickets from £17.65 (see website for calendar dates) New Wimbledon Theatre The Broadway, SW19 1QG 0844 871 7646 (atgtickets.com)
MEMORIES
THE TASTE TEST MEMORIES
Melissa James as Bombalurina and Lily Frazer as Demeter Photo by Alessandro Pinna
Alicia Beck as Victoria Photo by Alessandro Pinna
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18 MAY
24-26 MAY
UNTIL 2 NOVEMBER
A FAIR FESTIVAL
DELICIOUS DAY OUT
GHOST STORY
Each year, the Jack and Jill Nursery & Pre-Preparatory School hosts a May fair to raise money for local children’s charities. This year, Vince Cable MP will open the fair in which local bands, the school and community choirs will perform and a variety of vintage games will keep everyone entertained. The focus this year has been on getting local and independent retailers to support shopping locally and the recent regeneration of Twickenham town centre.
Celebrate fine food and drink in a beautiful outdoor location this Spring Bank Holiday at the Foodies Festival at Marble Hill House. Join top chefs at cooking demonstrations, discover the art of pastry making, learn about fine wines, beer and cocktails and entertain the little ones with junior gastro-classes. Afternoon tea and barbecue lessons are also on the menu – or you could just spend the day relaxing at the Real Ale and Cider Farm.
Ham House is home to copies of four Titian paintings, but discoloured varnishes and aged paint layers mean they are now in need of conservation work. While this restoration takes place, contemporary artist Stephen Farthing has created a series of three exciting new paintings to hang in the vacant spaces of Titian’s works, entitled Titian’s Ghosts.
11am-3pm, Twickenham Green, TW2 For more information follow @JackandJillFair on Twitter
Tickets from £15 (£12 concessions) 11am-7pm, Marble Hill House, Richmond Road, Twickenham, TW1 2NL (foodies.seetickets.com)
Adults £10, children £5, free for National Trust members, Saturday to Thursday 12pm-4pm. Ham House & Gardens Ham St, TW10 7RS 020 8940 1950 (nationaltrust.org.uk/ham-house)
DELICIOUS GHOST STORY DAY OUT
The Great Staircase at Ham House and Garden, © National Trust John Hammond
CONTEMPORARY EXHIBITION
‘Wont get fooled again’ by Sheelah Mahalath Bewley
Words / Kate Jennion - 19 -
Residents’ Journal
The
HISTORY BOYS Jennifer Mason meets talented restorer Jim Broughton and antique furniture enthusiast Philip Solomons to discuss how they’ve turned their passion into a promising business
V
isiting one half of Broughton Restorations’ HQ is an eyeopening experience. Every inch of the house is filled with stunning antique furniture – the kind of pieces that even my untrained eye can see are usually found in a stately home or museum. I’ve come to Philip Solomons’ house in Richmond to quiz him and business partner Jim Broughton on why antique restoration is such a fascinating business.
Jim working on a kingwood cabinet from c.1700
Jennifer Mason: Have you always been interested in the antique furniture world? Jim Broughton: I’ve been a cabinet maker and antique furniture restorer since the age of 16, and my father was a cabinet maker before me. My wife and I set up a small workshop in Oxfordshire supplying restoration to the antique trade in the area, but over the years as the antique shops shut down, these clients were replaced with people like Philip, a collector of early English furniture. JM: How did the two of you come to be in business together? Philip Solomons: It all started with a
Philip with the cocus wood cabinet that started it all
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Queen Anne ‘mulberry’ bureau
particularly beautiful cabinet that I took to Jim for restoration. I realised that it was something pretty special, but neither of us knew anything about it, so we embarked upon what has turned out to be a fascinating research project enabling us to restore it as accurately as possible. JB: It sort of grew into a joint venture, and since then we’ve been buying and selling furniture as well, which is something I’ve never done before. JM: How is the business going? PS: We’ve only been working together properly on the business since the beginning of this year, so it’s very new. Neither of us has been a dealer before, so it’s another learning process, but we’re very ambitious in terms of the projects we take on. We still welcome third party restoration clients – that part of the business won’t change, but we’re unusual as far as dealers are concerned, because we want to help people discover their own passion for antique furniture. We offer a guide on our website to advise people how to buy at auction, which most dealers don’t. JB: People can contact us and we’ll advise them on what they’ve got or what they’re looking to buy, whether or how something needs restoring and then we can give them an estimate for the work. We can also tell them whether it’s financially worth working on – which is an important consideration given the state of the financial climate at the moment. JM: What did you find out about the piece that sparked your partnership? PS: The cabinet was made just after the
Queen Anne burr walnut card table
restoration of the monarchy in 1660, which, in terms of English furniture, is extremely early for something this fine. It’s made of cocus wood – an extremely unusual tropical wood imported from Jamaica soon after it became an English colony. Looking into this cabinet’s history triggered our interest, so we started working closely together on a research project into the history of fine English cabinets, which has taken us from Windsor Castle to the Louvre in Paris. We discovered a group of six cabinets, which are the earliest known group of what you could call ‘fine English cabinets’. Then as I was beginning to write up the research recently, I was looking through auction
catalogues online, and I nearly fell off my chair when I saw another cabinet, similar to the group we’d been looking into – it was the seventh of its kind! I never expected to find another one, let alone one as splendid as that. I had to have it! JM: Is restoring a piece as fine as these two cabinets a lengthy process? JB: It probably took me the best part of two months to restore the cocus wood cabinet, but before we could even start working on it, we had to learn what it was. That’s what lengthened the whole process. Despite 30 years in the restoration business, I’d never even heard of cocus wood. I don’t know anyone who has worked on it prior, or since. Nobody I knew had ever heard of it. PS: This really was the project of a lifetime. We always try to understand pieces as much as possible so we can get the right materials and restore them accurately – but not usually to the extent we have on these two. JM: What’s the most crucial part of the process? PS: Antiques experts always talk about patina – but that’s the whole point. It’s got an age, got a history, got a past – it’s all about bringing that out. That’s its character. A good restorer makes something look beautiful without losing that character, and that’s what Jim and his team do so well. n
Broughton Restorations, Wisteria Cottage Littleworth, Faringdon, Oxfordshire SN7 8ED, 01367 242 009 (broughtonrestorations.co.uk)
William and Mary solid yew-wood side table
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Images courtesy of Broughton Restorations Limited & Emily Frances Wood photography
Contemporary Handmade Jewellery 11 Brewers Lane, Richmond, TW9 1HH | 0208 948 0886
Wedding Jewellery | Bespoke Commissions | Repairs/Redesigns
k at e h o p wo o d j e w e l l e ry. c o m
Residents’ Journal
The time warp Jennifer Mason meets Mel Ellis, owner of unique boutique Mela Mela Vintage in Teddington
Mel Ellis
T
aking pride of place on Teddington High Street is the stylish storefront of Mela Mela Vintage, a friendly boutique selling clothes and accessories made (and made fashionable) by ladies of days gone by. The store’s owner, Mel Ellis, is a collector of vintage fashion in her personal as well as professional life. ‘I just love beautiful things,’ she tells me. ‘I love the look and the feel of vintage, I love the excitement of finding something really pretty. I just love it.’ It was a personal connection that initially sparked her interest. ‘My mum was very stylish and beautiful; she made all her own clothes. She had - 23 -
a wonderful collection of hats and ball gowns – a trunk full of clothes that I always thought I would inherit,’ Mel remembers. ‘But the trunk disappeared when she moved house, and just like that everything was gone. So, I started buying bits, trying to recreate what I remembered being in that precious collection, and it sort of got out of hand. When it took over three rooms, my husband said perhaps it was time to open a shop, and so I did.’ The ethos behind Mela Mela was to create an upmarket boutique to stock one-off pieces, as opposed to your average vintage shop. ‘A lot of so-called vintage places are actually just retro,’ Mel explains. ‘They look like vintage, but they are really copies. Vintage has its own history; the fabrics of those years are fabulous. These days you just don’t get the glazed cotton or the silk chiffon – in couture maybe, but not in everyday fashion.’ The pieces on offer at Mela Mela Vintage are certainly one-off, as is the atmosphere. ‘We play music from
1920s
Residents’ Journal
1930s
1940s
1950s
different eras on shuffle for a more entertaining experience,’ she says, smiling. It’s certainly an effective tool; walking into the boutique feels a little like stepping back in time, in the best possible way. The boutique stocks clothing, jewellery and accessories from the 1920s to the 1980s – everything from summer dresses to winter coats. ‘We have a couple of Victorian bits and a few dresses from 1910, but we mostly start from the 20s and 30s,’ says Mel. ‘As a rule, I’ve stopped buying so many dresses from those periods, because people don’t really want to spend that kind of money. We have got a collection of scrumptious 20s things that we’re about to restore though – I can’t wait for those to go into the shop.’ Although the majority of Mel’s stock is day-to-day wear, Mela Mela does carry an exquisite line of vintage wedding dresses. ‘We have some Edwardian ones at the moment,’ she enthuses, ‘they are stunning.’ I’ve always been an admirer of vintage and think it looks amazing when people are dedicated to the look, but I’ve never thought I could make it work in the real world. However, after spending just a few minutes with Mel in her beautiful store I find myself modelling 1970s sun hats, trying to pull off pointybreasted bathing suits, drooling over handmade 1950s petticoats, and even considering changing my name to Evelyn. I ask Mel what her advice would be to a vintage rookie like myself. ‘Come in to the shop and talk to the girls,’ she recommends. ‘You just need to try on one thing, and from that we can gauge what will suit you, what size you’ll need and what colour looks best. There are different sizes and cuts for each era, so sizing can be difficult. You can have two people the same modern ‘size’ but different shapes, and a dress will look amazing on one, and hideous on the other.’ Exploring the store, I’m dubious that I’ll ever squeeze into the tiny-waisted 1950s dresses. Seeing my worried look, Mel laughs. ‘We do have “friendly” sizes too.’ She points out a few options more likely to fit my size 12 figure. ‘A lot of vintage clothing is quite small because women were generally smaller in those days, but that’s not true across the board.’ I heave a sigh of relief and head immediately for the changing room. Looking at the calibre of Mel’s collection, it’s not surprising that her stock is in demand from wardrobe outfitters of stage and screen. ‘We rarely get credited for providing costumes,’ she says, ‘but it’s amazing to see our things out there. The English National Opera has just bought a lot of stuff for its new production of Così Fan Tutte which is being set in the 1950s. We’ve featured in TV series like Downton Abbey and Foyle’s War – I even provided some hideous shirts for The Inbetweeners – and we’ve also dressed people for the BAFTAs and the Oscars over the years.’ Do period dramas help people understand vintage, I ask. ‘Some people still don’t really - 24 -
Mela Mela Vintage, 74 High Street, Teddington TW11 8JD, 020 8943 2432 (melamela.co.uk) - 25 -
1960s
1970s
1980s
Illustrations by Joanna Gilbert
understand what we are and how vintage works,’ says Mel. ‘I’m still gobsmacked by some of the things people ask – for example, if we have things in different sizes, or colours. Well, no! Everything we sell is a one-off.’ Buying vintage is like buying couture, she tells me. ‘It’s the fabrics that make it, the style, the cut, the attention to detail, in the necklines, pin tucks, the waist; it’s the little finishes. I find it all very exciting, even now.’ Preparing to wrap up our chat (so I can spend more time browsing), I ask Mel about her ambitions for the store. ‘My goal is to try and get people to wear a bit of vintage every day,’ she says, with passion. ‘I think these days we’re a a throwaway society: we buy cheap, and then when it falls apart, we throw it away and replace it. I think in the future there will be a struggle for everyday vintage wear, like we sell here at Mela Mela. The couture of today might end up in vintage shops of the future, but I’m not sure how much contemporary high-street fashion is worth saving.’ Considering what I’ve seen in the boutique this afternoon, I think it’s a shame that future generations may not have the same experience. I mentally search through my own wardrobe and realise that there are few things that would be worth handing down to my daughters or granddaughters. I’m beginning to understand the lure of vintage; the need to preserve something irreplaceable – but given this, I still can’t figure out why boutiques like Mel’s are not more popular. ‘People often disregard vintage as being merely second-hand,’ Mel explains. ‘They shouldn’t. They need to look further; vintage is part of our history, part of our heritage. It’s a way for us to leave something beautiful behind long after we’re gone.’ n
Residents’ Journal
A
B...eautiful
day out
Jennifer Mason discovers the hidden gem that is the B London Boutique Spa in Barnes
I
’d like to say there are no words to describe the lovely afternoon I spent at the B London Boutique Spa, but that wouldn’t make for very exciting reading. Instead I will endeavour not to wax lyrical on the subject (difficult, under the extremely relaxing circumstances). Like most who enjoy a good spa day, a new location is always greeted with a certain amount of trepidation. Will it be as professional as it appears? Will the staff be knowledgeable, friendly and talented? Will it provide the right kind of atmosphere for relaxation? The answer to all of these questions, with regards to the B London Boutique Spa, is a resounding yes. The subtle, well-designed décor creates a luxury feel, as does the extremely comfortable pedicure station, and the products give you an immediate sense of the quality on offer here: Eve Lom, OPI and NEOM make an appearance. All the small details have been considered – including a television screen to distract those who don’t find the manicure/ pedicure process as fascinating as I do. I’ve opted to try the B…Pampered package – a luxury manicure, pedicure
and relaxing aromatherapy back and neck massage (with a cheeky glass of Champagne to seal the deal). To give you a clue of the level of thought that’s put into these packages, the order of treatments has even been arranged to maximise drying time for my nails. I begin by choosing a colour for my digits (a task made Herculean by the sheer number of shades on offer) before enjoying a comprehensive paraffin-wax manicure and pedicure. No inch of my hands or feet is left un-buffed, un-moisturised, or un-polished. My hands, which suffer especially during the colder months, feel rejuvenated and soft for the first time since last summer. Once my fingers and toes are looking their best, it’s time for the massage. With my toes propped up to avoid damaging my newly-finished polish, I settle down for the ultimate in stress relief: an aromatherapy massage. My senses are assuaged and my muscles eased, and by the end I am seriously debating whether moving is even a possibility. But tempting me out of my aromatherapy-induced stupor is the thought of what’s still to experience downstairs: the B London Boutique. Filled to the rafters with holiday clothing, accessories and swimwear by the likes of Melissa Odabash, Karla Colletto and Biondi – it’s like a little slice of sunny paradise, even on a rainy London day. Stepping back out into the street is one of the harder things I’ve had to do… but deciding to return again soon is one of the easiest. n
B…Pampered package, £99 16 Barnes High Street SW13 9LW, 020 8876 7577 (blondonboutique.com) - 26 -
TR
DIY Gel Nails &TESIED TED
If getting a manicure or pedicure at a salon is more of a special-occasion treat than a weekly ritual but you still want fabulous looking digits, help is at hand. Painting your own gel nails at home may seem like a daunting prospect, but the Journal team have taken up the challenge this month. If you’ve had a gel manicure or pedicure before, you’ll know the process. Paint, cure, paint, cure, and voila! This at-home version is no different. The Kiss USA LED lamp is compact, but still provides enough space for one hand or foot at a time – and the LED function means the curing process is faster and more accurate than with the older style of UV lamp, plus it’s far less dangerous in terms of skin damage. The base coat goes on smoothly (followed by a 30-second spell under the lamp), as do the two coats of colour (60 seconds per coat here) and the shiny top coat (another 30 seconds). You do need to take extra care when applying to ensure you keep your cuticles and skin free of polish, as after this sets it can be difficult to remove and may leave rough edges that will cause your polish to catch and peel. Tentatively, we finish off our nails with a quick rub of the resurfacing liquid (on a lint-free pad), but happily no residue appears and our nails feel strong and ready-togo, with no drying time. Those who have experienced the gel nail process will know that the removal is the most tricky (and timeconsuming) stage, but the removal gadget and liquid are easy-to-use, and our polish comes off without much difficulty after the prerequisite soaking time. Our nails lasted about a week-and-a-half (even through some extreme moving and decorating!) and we were rather impressed with them, especially since they’d been done at home on the sofa with a glass of wine while watching the latest episode of Grand Designs. n
Prices start from £38.99 for the LED lamp and £13.99 for a coloured polish available in Tesco and Asda stores (kissusa.com)
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Residents’ Journal
Richmond
All images courtesy of Summer Social
ROCKS The local event of the season – a day of team sports and a night of revelry – takes place in Richmond this month. Ozel Rowland speaks to Summer Social co-founder Rob Westworth
T
he Borough of Richmond has a reputation for its love of sport. Its wealth of facilities and ample green spaces make it one of London’s hubs for all manner of activities. What’s more, it boasts the world-famous Twickenham Stadium; home of British rugby in all its forms. So it’s not hard to see why Rob Westworth and his associates chose it as the prime location for Summer Social, a hybrid mega sporting occasion that presents music and merriment for the post-game party. The event is approaching its fourth year and, after three years as RugbyRocks, Rob explains that the re-brand was just part of the natural progression. Having started off as an event for rugby solely, it now accommodates netball, lacrosse and volleyball competitions and, outside London, features in Leeds and Edinburgh too. ‘We’ve got two of the biggest rugby and netball tournaments in the whole of the UK,’ he affirms. ‘Considering this, we felt the brand RugbyRocks was not a true reflection of the event any more. So, we re-branded it as Summer Social, which is still going to be a very similar occasion, but we are putting more of an emphasis on the music line-up, as well as the sport.’ Although it is targeted at 20 to 30-somethings, Summer Social is ultimately all about the games, with tournaments at different skill levels for anybody who wants to compete, plus there’s a variety of supporters, including families. This, he tells me, is the reason why the event has managed to grow to such an impressive scale,
with its elite tournaments including some of the best teams in Europe. ‘We’ve got stag dos in fancy dress having a really good time and amateur professionals playing a more serious game right the way through to the top where we’ve got professional athletes competing. It really is about taking part. Plus, everybody enjoys outdoor activities, especially in the summer.’ With so many games in such a huge venue at the Richmond Athletic Ground, I ponder how it all runs so smoothly. ‘It’s a fairly unique environment,’ Rob explains. ‘We don’t need much security on site because everybody is there to enjoy what is really just wholesome good fun.’ He also tells me that Richmond Council has been hugely accommodating. ‘The team at the council have been brilliant,’ he smiles, while commending their willingness to help provide more pitches for the event. As we discuss the social side of things, Rob explains that sourcing music acts, and everything that comes with it, was the biggest learning curve. ‘It’s a public occasion, and it needs the sort of diligence that any mass event needs. This year, in particular, we’ve worked closely with some of the best night clubs in London to introduce a pretty talented group of DJs and local talent.’ I ask about the future of Summer Social, and whether the idea of becoming an international event is on the cards. ‘That’s the dream, but I think it’s a long way off yet,’ Rob laughs. ‘We’re having a great time doing what we’re doing, watching it evolve every year. It’s really exciting stuff.’ n
Tickets from £15, 31 May, 10am-midnight (last entry 9pm) Richmond Athletic Ground, Twickenham Road, TW9 2SF (summersocial.co.uk) - 28 -
Residents’ Journal
THE PLAYGROUND Twinkle, twinkle little star. How I wonder what you are
Young Picassos
The Little Carousel Gallery is an online fine-art gallery curated exclusively for children and babies. The Journal chats with founder Jennifer Smith How did you come up with the concept for the gallery? Two years ago I was working at an art gallery and wanted to buy some great collectible pieces to hang in my one-yearold daughter’s bedroom. I was looking for child-friendly work by interesting artists, which would help introduce her to the art world and form the beginnings of her own collection. I searched high and low, but nothing quite fit the bill. There was a lot of ‘wall art’ out there for kids, which to me was generic and uninspiring. I think children’s art is actually often intended to appeal to adults, which is so sad. Not being one to compromise, the business was born.
as I would if I was buying for myself: it has to be unique and have the potential to genuinely capture a child’s imagination. Can you tell us a bit about the services you offer? All my gallery artwork is available to buy online, but I also work personally with clients and interior designers to help them select the perfect pieces. Clients are always welcome to try out a piece in their own home, and if it’s not the right fit there’s a 14-day return guarantee. Many of my artists love working on bespoke commissions too. It’s always nice to have an artwork delivered ready to hang on the wall so I offer an optional framing service, as well as free gift wrapping. I want to make it as easy as possible to give a beautiful art gift which will be loved forever, but if you really can’t decide then my gift vouchers are always a great option.
(littlecarouselgallery.com)
How did you go about sourcing artists? Some of the most innovative new artwork to be found for children is in children’s story books. I have links with the Cambridge School of Art which runs the only MA in Children’s Book Illustration in the country and produces amazingly talented fine art graduates every year. I also visit the summer graduate shows at the big London art schools. I apply the same selection criteria - 30 -
Local children get creative in schools’ food waste recycling competition Schools around the borough have been encouraging children to take part in a competition to raise awareness for recycling – and have met with massive success. The competition was launched by Richmond Council and Veolia Environmental Services, and asked pupils to design their own banner to feature on the borough’s waste and recycling trucks. Altogether there were more than 300 entries, which were judged by Cllr Pamela Fleming, Cabinet Member for Environment; Nigel Ray, Head of Waste and Recycling; and Franco Murphy, Veolia Environmental Services Richmond Contract Manager. The winners were: Eve Dickson from Teddington School; Jessica Hornibrook from Hampton Infant School and Anah Crowley from St Edmund’s Catholic Primary School. Commenting on the results, Cllr Fleming said: ‘Recycling effectively is vital if we are to preserve our beautiful borough and I’m thrilled that young people are helping us to lead the way in encouraging more people to recycle their food waste. Congratulations to all the participants for their hard work!’
Residents’ Journal
Parent Trap: Nappy Valley Net Richmond NappyValleyNet.com has become an online sensation in the three years since founder Susan Hanage, aka. Annabel, unleashed it, with more than 130,000 visits to the site every month. An invaluable tool for parents based in south west London seeking to swap tips and share advice, we’ve teamed up to post some of the most pressing topics posted on the site
Tips for getting a two year old off the bottle I’m really struggling to get my two year old to give up her bottle. My older one gave it up no problem at just over 18 months but this is proving a real battle. Plus she still wants a bottle mid-afternoon, which she shouldn’t need. Anyone got any tips for weaning off the bottle? Is it OK to leave it for a bit longer; the health visitor seemed to suggest she shouldn’t be having it now.
Wed Mar 26, 2014 11:41 am As with most things with children, I can’t remember when mine stopped. I would try to go cold turkey and play around with different cups and see how it goes. I used a bottlelike beaker to start with and gradually changed the style of beaker. Eventually I offered milk in a standard cup. As for milk in the afternoon, is she eating well or swapping snacks with milk? If she is eating well and not having too much milk I can’t see the harm. Eventually you can just offer a bit of milk in a glass with her snack. Good luck! Sat Mar 29, 2014 6:04 pm Two is still so young, maybe review it in a few months. I am sure you might find she gives it up herself, or at least more willingly when she is a bit older. One of my older children had a bottle until almost three at bedtime.
Re: Jeans to hide “mummy tummy” Mon Mar 17, 2014 4:07 pm ‘Not Your Daughter’s Jeans’ are great. John Lewis and all big department stores stock them now I think. Also Selfridges has a denim expert – you need to book in advance but they will help you find the perfect pair based on your body type.
Good sports classes for active five year old I am looking for recommendations for sports classes for my little boy, either after school or weekends. We’re keen on rugby and football. We tried a little rugby a while back but he wasn’t very impressed, so we’re keen to hear some personal recommendations before we sign up to something else. Thanks in advance. Re: Good sports classes for active five year old Wed Mar 05, 2014 9:30 am We started footie tots in January. Andy is great and my little one (4) loves it. We go to a 2pm class but I think he does other ones for older kids. footie-tots.co.uk Sun Mar 09, 2014 2:05 pm
Jeans to hide “mummy tummy”
Hi, motive8 runs loads of after-school activities... here’s some info which might help.
Mums of SW London, I need help! Can anyone please
m8coaching.co.uk
Local summer camps Summer is fast approaching and with halfterm around the corner you’ll want to be quick for a place at one of these local activity camps. Twickenham Barracudas Day Camp Your local Barracudas activity day camp is held at Twickenham’s St Catherine’s School and offers a host of fun and productive tasks for children aged between 4½ to 16.
St Catherine’s School, Cross Deep, TW1 4QJ 0845 123 5299 (barracudas.co.uk) Camp Beaumont Camp Beaumont caters its activities for different age groups between four and 16 and promises a fun-filled experience for young ones.
Christ’s School Richmond, Queen’s Road TW10 6HW and Kings College School Southside, Wimbledon Common, SW19
01603 857 447 (campbeaumont.co.uk) Super Camps Super Camps is aware that children love different things and offers three fun programmes that work to hone their skills and hobbies accordingly.
Putney High School, 35 Putney Hill, SW15 6BH and Wimbledon High School, Mansel Road, SW19 4AB, 0123 546 7300 (supercamps.co.uk) Words / Ozel Rowland
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All threads from NappyValleyNet.com; users’ names have been omitted to protect individuals identities and although opinions have not been altered, posts have been edited into line with the Residents’ Journal house style
Re: Tips for getting a two year old off the bottle
recommend some good, high-waisted jeans that are high enough to hide a mum-tum but not look like some hideous 80s Dallas tribute. Jeans are a wardrobe staple and post-baby, the old cuts and makes I used to wear just aren’t flattering any more. Advice gratefully received.
Residents’ Journal
Planning & Development Keeping you in the know about important street plans affecting south west London
THE LAW vs LITTERBUGS From the end of April, council officers, working with the Kingdom environmental protection team, will be keeping the borough’s streets free of rubbish as part of the council’s anti-litter campaign. The council, and the majority of borough
residents, are committed to keeping their streets clean and discouraging people from littering, especially in busy town centres. Merton Council cabinet member for environmental cleanliness Councillor Judy Saunders says: ‘Most of us are fed up with seeing people dropping litter. Every year we spend £5 million cleaning our streets, and our teams are out around the clock, seven days a week picking up after the minority who throw their litter on the pavement. Working with Kingdom, we will be cracking down even more on littering and anyone caught dropping a cigarette butt, a sweet wrapper, or anything that should go into a bin, will be fined £75. It could be the most expensive cigarette or sweet they’ve ever had.’
Planning applications Date RECEIVED: 11 March Address: Park Drive Proposal: Single storey rear extension with associated patio area alterations Date RECEIVED: 13 March Address: Roehampton High Street Proposal: Replace externally illuminated signage Date RECEIVED: 14 March Address: Melville Road
PROPOSAL: Introduction of pitched roof dormer to front elevation Date RECEIVED: 14 March Address: Sefton Street Proposal: Erection of rear roof extension to main roof (with French doors and safety railings) and above part of back addition Date RECEIVED: 19 March Address: Dennis Park Crescent Proposal: Front Garden – Twisted Hazel tree to be removed
For more information, visit merton.gov.uk
Planned roadworks and closures in and around May STREET
PLANNED WORK
DATES
WORKS OWNER
Bedgebury Gardens
Carriageway resurfacing
Until 5 May
Benns Walk
Install 11m of 1-way poly duct in footway
Until 13 May
Camborne Road
Dealtry Road
Storage area for spoil and material for Until 16 May replacement works Footway excavation works and installation Until 16 May of spreader beam Footway resurfacing Until 23 May
Wandsworth 020 8871 6000 British Telecommunications plc 0800 800 150 Southern Gas Networks 0845 026 0015 Transport For London 0845 305 1234 Transport For London
Camac Road
Carry out ASP footway patching works
Chiswick Bridge
Words / Kate Jennion - 32 -
Until 6 June
Richmond Upon Thames 020 8891 1411
Residents’ Journal
Your local agents A selection of the areas top estate agents
Chesterton Humberts Barnes Village 133 Church Road, SW13 9HR 020 3603 4320 (sales) 020 3603 9065 (lettings) East Sheen 254a Upper Richmond Road West SW14 8AG 020 8104 0580 (sales) 020 8104 0580 (lettings) Kew 306 Sandycombe Road TW9 3NG 020 8104 0340 (sales) 020 8104 0340 (lettings) North Barnes 192 Castlenau, SW13 9DH 020 8748 8833 (sales) 020 8748 7733 (lettings) Putney 153 Upper Richmond Road SW15 2TX 020 8246 5959 (sales) 020 8704 1000 (lettings) chestertonhumberts.com
Putney 184 Upper Richmond Road SW15 2SH 020 8454 7243 (sales) 020 8454 7259 (lettings) Richmond 8 The Quadrant TW9 1BP 020 8454 7251 (sales) 020 8454 7261 (lettings) Teddington 164 High Street TW11 8HU 020 8970 7902 (sales) 020 8970 7906 (lettings) Wimbledon High Street SW19 5BA 020 8454 7249 (sales) 020 8454 7265 (lettings) hamptons.co.uk
Knight Frank Esher The Old Post House High Street Esher, Surrey KT10 9QA 01372 464496
Hamptons Barnes 67 Barnes High Street, SW13 9LD 020 8658 7344 (sales) 020 8970 7895 (lettings)
Richmond 5 Duke Street TW9 1HP 020 8939 2803
East Sheen 252 Upper Richmond Road West SW14 8AG 020 8454 7247 (sales) 020 8936 3028 (lettings)
Wimbledon 81 High Street SW19 5EG 020 8946 0026 knightfrank.co.uk
Marsh & Parsons Barnes 73/75 Church Road SW13 9HH 020 8563 8333 marshandparsons.co.uk
Robert Holmes & Co Wimbledon Willow House 35 High Street SW19 5BY 020 8947 9833 (sales and new homes) 11-13 Church Road SW19 5DW 020 8879 9669 (lettings) robertholmes.co.uk
Savills Barnes 52 Barnes High Street SW13 9LN 020 8939 6900 Putney 198 Upper Richmond Road SW15 2SH 020 8780 9900 Richmond 40-42 Hill Rise TW10 6UA 020 8614 9100
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Wimbledon 1 High Street SW19 5DX 020 8971 8111 savills.co.uk
Winkworth Barnes 2 Barnes High Street SW13 9LB 020 8255 0088 (sales) 020 8878 7966 (lettings) Putney 196 Upper Richmond Road SW15 2SH 020 8788 9295 Wimbledon 37 Church Road SW19 5DQ 020 8946 2930 winkworth.co.uk
Residents’ Journal
The Directory Whether whim or wish, all of the essentials are taken care of in our round up for harmonious living
Lifesavers Councils Merton Council London Borough of Merton Civic Centre London Road, SM4 5DX 020 8274 4901 merton.gov.uk (Large or Bulky Household waste collection, Merton Council: 020 8274 4902) Richmond Council Civic Centre 44 York Street Twickenham, TW1 3BZ 0845 6122 660 richmond.gov.uk Wandsworth Council The Town Hall Wandsworth High Street SW18 2PU 020 8871 6000 wandsworth.gov.uk
Post Offices Church Road 96 Church Road, SW13 0DQ Danebury Avenue 31a Danebury Avenue SW15 4DG East Sheen 234 Upper Richmond Road West SW14 8AG Haydons Road 317 Haydons Road SW19 8TX
Raynes Park 1a Amity Grove, SW20 0LL Richmond 16-17 George Street, TW9 1JS postoffice.co.uk
Vets and pets M.A. Dog Training and Services 07547 716076 madogtraining@gmail.com madogtrainingandservices.co.uk Richmond Vets 161 Kew Road, Richmond TW9 2PN 020 8940 1090 richmondvets.co.uk The Vet on Richmond Hill 38 Friars Stile Road Richmond TW10 6NQ 020 8948 3737 thevetonrichmondhill.com
Dentists Arthur Road Dental Practice 172 Arthur Road Wimbledon SW19 8AQ 020 8946 2646 dentistsw19.com Roseneath Dental Care Corner of Mount Ararat & Paradise Road, Richmond TW10 6PA, 020 8940 9955 roseneath.co.uk
Stephen Powell Orthodontics 2a Barham Road Wimbledon, SW20 0EU 020 8946 3064 orthodontist-wimbledon.co.uk
Doctors Coombe Medical Practice 13 Brook Gardens Kingston upon Thames KT2 7ET 020 8605 0044 coombemedicalpractice.co.uk Richmond Practice - Private doctors’ service 19 Sheen Road (Opposite Waitrose carpark) Richmond, TW9 1AD 020 8940 5009 richmondpractice.co.uk
Courier Riverside Cars 368 Upper Richmond Road West SW14 7JU 020 8878 7777 riverside-cars.com
Solicitors Dixon Ward 16 The Green TW9 1QD 020 8940 4051 dixon-ward.co.uk Russell-Cooke Solicitors 2 Putney Hill, SW15 6AB 020 8789 9111 russell-cooke.co.uk
Cleaners
Seymour House Surgery 154 Sheen Road Richmond, TW9 1UU 020 8940 2802 richmondsurgery.co.uk
American Dry Cleaners 5 Royal Parade Richmond, Surrey TW9 3QD 020 8332 1364 americandrycleaningcompany.com
Sheen Lane Health Centre Sheen Lane SW14 8LP 020 8876 3901 sheenlanehealthcentre.co.uk
Bright And Sparkling 113 Harbridge Avenue SW15 4HA 07717 307095 bright-and-sparkling.co.uk
Optician
Motoring
David Clulow Opticians 5 George Street Richmond, TW9 1JY 020 8332 0345 davidclulow.com
West Motor Company 4 Castelnau SW13 9RU 020 8748 8844 westmotorcompany.co.uk
EDUCATION Holy Cross 25 Sandal Road New Malden, Surrey, KT3 5AR 020 8395 4225 holycross.kingston.sch.uk
Rokeby School George Road, Kingston upon Thames, Surrey, KT2 7PB 020 8942 2247 rokebyschool.co.uk
IBSTOCK PLACE SCHOOL (Pre-preparatory, Preparatory and Senior School: ages 3-18) Clarence Lane, Roehampton, SW15 5PY 020 8876 9991 ibstockplaceschool.co.uk - 34 -
home & Culture Architects
Antiques
Andrew Catto Architects 154 Putney High Street, SW15 1RS 020 8785 0077 andrewcatto.co.uk
The Gooday Gallery 14 Richmond Hill Richmond, TW10 6QX 020 8940 8652 thegoodaygallery.com
Bob Trimble Architects 36 York Street Twickenham, TW1 3LJ 020 8538 9303 trimblearchitect.co.uk GPS Architects 14 The Green Richmond, TW9 1PX 020 8940 8244 gpsarchitects.co.uk Holden Harper 26 High Street, Wimbledon SW19 5BY 020 8879 0310 holdenharper.co.uk
Regallis Associates ‘A south west London staple which has delivered bespoke architectural designs to suit conversions, extensions or complete refurbishments since 2003’ The Mews 12 Lower Richmond Road SW15 1JP 020 7384 2228 regallis.co.uk
Riverside Gallery 36 Barnes High Street, SW13 9LP 020 8878 0040 riversidegallery.co.uk
Museums/Galleries Henry Boxer Gallery (visits by appointment only) 98 Stuart Court Richmond Hill, TW10 6RJ 020 8948 1633 outsiderart.co.uk
Strawberry Hill House (Horace Walpole’s Gothic Castle) 268 Waldegrave Road Twickenham, TW1 4ST 020 8744 1241 strawberryhillhouse.org.uk The Architect’s Gallery The Powder Rooms 69-71 Broad Street Teddington, TW11 8QZ 020 8977 6999 thearchitectsgallery.com
Lacy Road Gallery 30 Lacy Road, SW15 1NL 020 8789 1777 lacyroadgallery.co.uk
Will’s Art Warehouse 180 Lower Richmond Road Putney Common SW15 1LY 020 8246 4840 wills-art.com Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club Church Road Wimbledon, SW19 5AE 020 8946 6131 Wimbledon Windmill Museum Windmill Road Wimbledon Common SW19 5NR 020 8947 2825 wimbledonwindmill.org.uk
The Museum of Richmond Old Town Hall Whittaker Avenue Richmond, TW9 1TP 020 8322 1141 museumofrichmond.com
Landmark Art Gallery Landmark Arts Centre Ferry Road, Teddington TW11 9NN 020 8977 7558 landmarkartscentre.org
The Russell Gallery 12 Lower Richmond Road Putney, SW15 1JP 020 8780 5228 russell-gallery.com
Orleans House Gallery Riverside Twickenham, TW1 3DJ 020 8831 6000
The Twickenham Museum 25 The Embankment Twickenham Middlesex, TW1 3DU 020 8408 0070 twickenham-museum.org.uk
Richmond Hill Gallery 26 Richmond Hill Richmond, TW10 6QX 020 8940 5152 therichmondhillgallery.com
entertainment Theatres New Wimbledon Theatre The Broadway Wimbledon SW19 1QG 020 8545 7900 Normansfield Theatre The Langdon Down Centre Normansfield 2A Langdon Park, TW11 9PS 0333 121 2300 langdondowncentre.org.uk Orange Tree Theatre 1 Clarence Street Richmond, TW9 2SA 020 8940 0141 orangetreetheatre.co.uk
Polka Theatre 240 The Broadway Wimbledon, SW19 1SB 020 8543 4888 polkatheatre.com
Teddington Theatre Club Hampton Hill Playhouse 90 High Street, Hampton Hill TW12 1NZ 0845 838 7529 teddingtontheatreclub.org.uk
Putney Arts Theatre Ravenna Road, Putney, SW15 6AW 020 8788 6943 putneyartstheatre.org.uk Richmond Theatre The Green, Richmond, TW9 1QJ 020 8332 4500 Step on Stage Academy of Performing Arts The Whitehouse Community Centre 45 The Avenue, Hampton, TW12 3RN steponstageacademy.co.uk
The Bearcat Comedy Club The Turk’s Head 28 Winchester Road St Margaret’s Twickenham TW1 1LF 020 8607 9190 bearcatcomedy.co.uk The Half Moon 93 Lower Richmond, SW15 1EU 020 8780 9383 halfmoon.co.uk
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The Richmond Shakespeare Society The Mary Wallace Theatre The Embankment, Twickenham TW1 3DU 020 8744 0547 richmondshakespeare.org.uk The Rose Theatre 24-26 High Street Kingston, KT1 1HL 020 8546 6983 rosetheatrekingston.org
Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk
The Coombe Estate Set within the prestigious Coombe Estate in a plot of approximately 0.7 acres, a delightful 1930s detached family home with potential to modernise/develop, subject to the usual planning consents. Currently laid out over two floors the property includes four bedrooms, good reception space and a stunning westerly garden extending to 240 ft. EPC: E
Offers in Excess £3,000,000 Freehold • • • • •
Hamptons Wimbledon Office Sales. 020 8454 7627 | Lettings. 020 8454 7265
Private estate Detached family home Spacious plot 240 ft. westerly garden Potential to modernise/develop
Richmond A four bedroom Georgian house of historical interest and townscape merit situated moments from the historical Richmond Green. EPC: E
£3,650,000 Freehold • • • • • •
Hamptons Richmond Office Sales. 020 8454 7621 | Lettings. 020 8454 7261
Four bedrooms Three reception rooms Period Conservatory South westerly facing garden Garage
Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk
Chelverton Road A superb five bedroom period house maintaining a number of the original features. The house is centrally located off Putney High Street and has a South-facing garden. EPC: E
£1,650,000 Freehold • • • • •
Hamptons Putney Office Sales. 020 8454 7612 | Lettings. 020 8454 7259
Five bedrooms Two bathrooms Two reception rooms South-facing garden Close to transport links
Barnes A unique and rarely available five bedroom House of Townscape Merit, which provides substantial reception space and a rear garden designed by RHS Chelsea Flower Show award winning Landscape Architect, Luciano Giubbilei. This outstanding house is approached via an electric security gate, opening onto a gravelled driveway with off street parking for numerous cars and has been restored to enhance its original period features and provide a balance with contemporary living.
Hamptons Barnes Office Sales. 020 3285 7734 | Lettings. 020 8454 7259
£5,500,000 Freehold • • • • •
Victorian family home Unique five bedroom house Architect designed Stunning free flowing reception space Private off street Parking with security gate
Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk
East Sheen A very rare opportunity to acquire this magnificent and striking Edwardian residence which stands on the corner plot of one of Parkside’s premier tree-lined Avenues. This stunning home has been occupied and well maintained by the same family for over 40 years and offers well proportioned accommodation arranged over three floors with a spectacular receiving hall and an elegant, ornate staircase (which is truly, only one of this formidable property’s delights). EPC: E
Hamptons East Sheen Office Sales. 020 8454 7625 | Lettings. 020 8936 3028
£3,750,000 Freehold • • • • • •
Three reception rooms Kitchen and breakfast room Six bedrooms Three bathrooms Double length garage Total sq ft 4,069
St. James Lodge A handsome and imposing mid Victorian detached family house on a generous plot with gravelled driveway off-street parking, quietly located in one of Hampton Hill’s most sought after residential roads. EPC: E
£2,650,000 Freehold • • • • • •
Hamptons Teddington Office Sales. 020 8945 5026 | Lettings. 020 8970 7906
Six bedrooms Five to six reception rooms Four bathrooms Garden Private parking 3,618 approx. sq ft
savills.co.uk
1 AN EXEMPLARY FAMILY HOME BY THE MUCH ACCLAIMED AVICAM HOMES marchmont road, richmond 2 reception rooms ø 5 bedrooms ø 3 bathrooms ø garden ø off-street parking ø garage ø 268 sq m (2,885 sq ft) ø EPC=C
Savills Richmond Daniel Hutchins dhutchins@savills.com
020 8614 9100 Guide £2.895 million Leasehold, approximately 999 years remaining
savills.co.uk
1 IMPRESSIVE DETACHED HOUSE SET BACK FROM THE ROAD coombe lane west, kt2 3 reception rooms ø 7 double bedrooms ø 4 bathrooms ø garden with outdoor heated pool ø convenient location for transport ø parking for 4 cars on driveway ø Rokeby and Holy Cross both within 1,000m ø 362 sq m (3,897 sq ft) ø EPC=E Guide £2.575 million Freehold
Savills Wimbledon Clive Moon cmoon@savills.com
020 8971 8111
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savills.co.uk
LETTINGS LAYOUT ONLY
KINGSWOOD ROAD, sw19
COLSTON ROAD, sw14
4 bedrooms ø double reception room ø 2 bathrooms ø private garden ø permit parking ø 129 sq m (1,392 sq ft) ø Council Tax=F ø EPC=D
4 bedrooms ø 2 reception rooms ø 2 bathrooms ø study ø patio garden ø garage ø 173 sq m (1,860 sq ft) ø Council Tax=E ø EPC=C
Unfurnished £2,950 pcm
Flexible furnishings £3,500 pcm
+ £276 inc VAT one-off admin fee and other charges may apply* Savills Wimbledon aclements@savills.com 020 8971 8100
+ £276 inc VAT one-off admin fee and other charges may apply* Savills Richmond nhowe@savills.com 020 8614 9115
BURDETT AVENUE, sw20
STRAND DRIVE, tw9
5 bedrooms ø double reception room ø 2 bathrooms ø garden ø off-street parking ø 212 sq m (2,291 sq ft) ø Council Tax=G ø EPC=E
5 bedrooms ø 2 reception rooms ø 3 bathrooms ø patio garden ø river views ø 210 sq m (2,340 sq ft) ø Council Tax=E ø EPC=C
Unfurnished £4,750 pcm
Unfurnished £5,950 pcm
+ £276 inc VAT one-off admin fee and other charges may apply* Savills Wimbledon aclements@savills.com 020 8971 8100
+ £276 inc VAT one-off admin fee and other charges may apply* Savills Richmond nhowe@savills.com 020 8614 9115
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*£36 inc VAT for each additional tenant/occupant/guarantor reference where required. Inventory check out fee – charged at the end of or early termination of the tenancy and the amount is dependent on the property size and whether furnished/unfurnished. For more details, visit www.savills.co.uk/fees.
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savills.co.uk
LETTINGS LAYOUT ONLY
FIFE ROAD, sw14
WYATT DRIVE, sw13
6 bedrooms ø 4 bathrooms ø 2 reception rooms ø games room ø cinema room ø garden ø off-street parking ø 519 sq m (5,590 sq ft) ø Council Tax=H ø EPC=C
3 bedrooms ø 2 bathrooms ø 1 reception room ø communal garden ø garden flat ø gated development ø 105 sq m (1,130 sq ft) ø Council Tax=G ø EPC=C
Unfurnished £12,000 pcm
Unfurnished £2,900 pcm
+ £276 inc VAT one-off admin fee and other charges may apply* Savills Barnes pzammit@savills.com 020 8939 6914
+ £276 inc VAT one-off admin fee and other charges may apply* Savills Barnes pzammit@savills.com 020 8939 6914
RAYNERS ROAD, sw15
LOWER RICHMOND ROAD, sw15
2 double bedrooms ø 2 bathrooms ø kitchen/reception room/ dining room ø balcony ø garden ø underground parking space ø 91 sq m (979 sq ft) ø Council Tax=G ø EPC=C
2 double bedrooms ø 2 bathrooms ø reception room ø eat in kitchen ø maisonette ø 76 sq m (818 sq ft) ø Council Tax=D ø EPC=E
Furnished £2,535 pcm
Part Furnished £1,700 pcm
+ £276 inc VAT one-off admin fee and other charges may apply* Savills Putney rhole@savills.com 020 8780 6117
+ £276 inc VAT one-off admin fee and other charges may apply* Savills Putney rhole@savills.com 020 8780 6117
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*£36 inc VAT for each additional tenant/occupant/guarantor reference where required. Inventory check out fee – charged at the end of or early termination of the tenancy and the amount is dependent on the property size and whether furnished/unfurnished. For more details, visit www.savills.co.uk/fees.
Residents’ Journal
Location, location, location Savills Barnes suggests that the area itself could be the answer to what tenants really want
T
he size of the private rental sector has been increasing rapidly since the early 1990s, and there are now 4.14 million people renting privately in England, and Savills expects this figure to rise to 5.7million by 2018. In conjunction with YouGov, Savills Research has conducted a survey of 2,300 tenants renting in the private sector in major cities across England and Wales, including 1,000 respondents in London.
The first port of call was to look at what tenants want. This produced clear results: convenience is key -– especially for London tenants. Seventy per cent of these list being close to work or university as important, compared with 49 per cent across England – and this was particularly true for younger respondents, with more than half (55 per cent) of those in the 18-25 age group prepared to pay more for this benefit. Similarly, proximity to public transport is also high on tenants’ priority lists, with 52 per cent living within five minutes of their nearest public transport, rising to 73 per cent in a ten-minute catchment area. Paul Zammit, Head of Lettings at Savills Barnes, explains: ‘Barnes is well-equipped to meet this need, with two overground stations (Barnes and Barnes Bridge) both offering good train connections to London Waterloo, Richmond, Kingston and Hounslow. There are also plenty of bus services providing easy access across the bridge to Hammersmith, with excellent Tube links from there across central London and into the City.’ Tenants are increasingly renting for longer periods of time, with the typical tenant-profile now including more families with children. This has seen increasing importance being placed on proximity to good schools, as well as access to nursery or childcare. Zammit comments: ‘Here, the local Barnes Primary School is a major draw for young families, while nearby St Paul’s School, Colet Court, the Harrodian School and the Swedish School attract families moving from central London and abroad.’ When searching for a prospective area to live, safety is high on
the list of priorities. Good neighbours are also important, with many tenants citing problems with previous neighbours as the reason for their move. Zammit says: ‘Barnes’ tranquil setting along the riverside with plenty of peaceful outdoor space around the Green and Barnes Common lends itself well to creating a calm environment for tenants. There is also a genuine sense of community, which means neighbours are less likely to behave disruptively to those around them, although sadly there are never any guarantees.’ Finally, looking at the reasons for renting, 24 per cent of people surveyed choose to rent because it is less hassle and they like the flexibility; while a further eight per cent stated that they are renting because they choose to invest their money elsewhere. Zammit concludes: ‘In Barnes, the top two reasons for renting are relocation (56 per cent) and preferring to rent (44 per cent), which I think speaks volumes about how well-liked and convenient the area is for our tenants.’ n
52 Barnes High Street, SW13 9LN, 020 8939 6900 (savills.co.uk)
Currently on the market...
Lonsdale Road, Barnes, London, SW13 Guide price £6,000 per month
Garraway Court, Wyatt Drive, London, SW13 Guide price £2,900 per month
A beautifully-presented four-bedroom house arranged over three floors, just one mile from Barnes Village and one and a half miles from the centre of Hammersmith.
A spacious ground floor three-bedroom flat in a private development in Barnes Waterside.
For information on either property contact Savills Barnes on 020 8939 6914 (savills.co.uk)
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KnightFrank.co.uk Coombe Neville, Kingston Upon Thames KT2 Sought after location
Very well presented and spacious detached house in a sought after close off Warren Road. Master bedroom suite with dressing room and en suite shower/bathroom, 4 further bedrooms, loft room, family bathroom, WC, kitchen with utility room, dining room, family room, drawing room, reception, study, garden, garage, off road parking. Approximately 298.6 sq m (3,215 sq ft). EPC rating D. Freehold Guide price: ÂŁ2,450,000
KnightFrank.co.uk/wimbledon wimbledon@knightfrank.com 020 8946 0026 (WMB130161)
Mostyn Road, Wimbledon SW19 A beautiful seven bedroom house
A beautifully presented detached Edwardian home in a sought after road within the Merton Conservation Area. Master bedroom, 6 further bedrooms, family bathroom, shower room, WC, Kitchen/Breakfast room, dining room, drawing room, family room, 2 study rooms, utility room, cellar room, summer house, garden, garage. Approximately 377.6 sq m (4,065 sq ft). EPC rating E. Freehold Guide price: ÂŁ3,100,000
KnightFrank.co.uk/wimbledon wimbledon@knightfrank.com 020 8946 0026 (WMB140048)
KnightFrank.co.uk
St. Peters Road, Richmond upon Thames TW1 Superb detached family house
Located in the highly sought after 'River Trust Grounds', this property offers 7 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 4 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, beautiful gardens plus access into the secure and private 'Trust' grounds, garage, off‐street parking. EPC rating E. Approximately 404 sq m ﴾4,348 sq ft﴿. Freehold Guide price: £3,999,950
KnightFrank.co.uk/richmond richmond@knightfrank.com 020 8939 2800
﴾RCH110160﴿
RWPB Resident's Journal May14 - 4 St. Peters Road PRINT
25/04/2014 11:44:13
R
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KnightFrank.co.uk
Princes Road, Richmond TW10 Charming cottage in "The Alberts"
A well‐presented cottage close to the station and town centre. 2 bedrooms, bathroom, reception room, dining room, kitchen, garden. EPC rating E. Approximately 73.06 sq m ﴾786 sq ft﴿.
KnightFrank.co.uk/richmond richmond@knightfrank.com 020 8939 2800
Freehold
Guide price: £725,000
﴾RCH140083﴿
RWPB Resident's Journal May14 - 80 Princes Road PRINT
25/04/2014 11:47:47
LOOKING TO BUY, SELL, RENT OR LET?
BARNES
PUTNEY
WIMBLEDON
020 8255 0088
020 8788 9295
020 8946 2930
LONDON AND BEYOND, WE’VE GOT PROPERTY COVERED winkworth.co.uk
Gwendolen Avenue, SW15 ÂŁ5,850,000 This late 19th century house features impressive interconnecting rooms which are ideal for both family living and large scale entertaining. The ground floor has been extended to 3,572 sq. ft. and includes four principle reception rooms and a large entrance hall, bracketed by a grand central staircase. A stunning Marston & Langinger conservatory runs along the rear of the house, with French doors onto the landscaped garden. The ground floor leads onto a double garage with stairs leading to a self-contained studio/gym. The master bedroom has an en-suite shower & dressing area. Drawing Room | Dining Room | Family Room | Conservatory | Kitchen/Breakfast Room | Homework/hobby Room Study | Master Bedroom with En-Suite Shower Room | Further Five Double Bedrooms | Two Family Bathrooms | Separate WC | Second Study | Studio/Gym Room | Double Garage | Store Rooms | Utility Room | Landscaped Garden
Scan this code to download the Winkworth iPhone app
winkworth.co.uk/kensington winkworth.co.uk/putney 020 8788 9295 kensington@winkworth.co.uk putney@winkworth.co.uk 7727 1500
See things differently.
Upper Richmond Road, SW15 ÂŁ3,950,000 An impressive detached period property of some 5,609 sq.ft arranged over three floors and boasting a wealth of period and contemporary features. The bespoke kitchen benefits from an Aga, stone flooring and access to the landscaped 76ft rear garden. To the upper floors is a superb master bedroom with walk in dressing room and en-suite bathroom. There are four additional bedrooms, two further bathrooms and an en-suite cloakroom. Integral to the building is a self-contained two bedroom apartment on the first floor with private access. Entrance Hall | Study | Double Reception | Sitting Room | Au Pair/TV Room | Orangery | Dining Room | Kitchen/Breakfast Room | Master Bedroom and En-Suite Bathroom | Guest Double bedroom with Shower room | Three Further Bedrooms | Two Bathrooms | En-Suite Cloakroom | Wine Cellar | Large Garden | OSP | Self Contained Two Bedroom Flat
Scan this code to download the Winkworth iPhone app
winkworth.co.uk/kensington winkworth.co.uk/putney 020 8788 9295 kensington@winkworth.co.uk putney@winkworth.co.uk 7727 1500
See things differently.
Wimbledon
£4,450,000
An outstanding architect-designed residence created with meticulous attention to detail incorporating the finest materials and the latest technology Grand reception hall • drawing room • study • kitchen/dining/family room • 6 bedrooms • 6 bath/shower rooms • cinema room/bed 6 • 2 utility rooms • wine store • lovely gardens • garage • gated drive • ER/B
Wimbledon Village’sWimbledon Premier Estate Agent Lettings: +44 (0) 20 8879 9669 Village 020- 8947 9833
www.robertholmes.co.uk
Wimbledon Village
Guide Price £6,000,000
Wimbledon Village
£5,450,000
An impressive residence located walled and gated drive in a tree-lined road near the Village
A most impressive newly built detached residence in a quiet setting adjacent to a green
4 receptions • 6 bedrooms • 7 bath/shower rooms (incl s/c flat) • beautiful garden • double garage • ER/C
5 bedrooms • 5 bath/shower rooms • 3 reception rooms • gated drive • landscaped garden • drive • ER/C
Wimbledon
Wimbledon
£3,650,000
£3,250,000
A late 19th Century home, full of charm and character, with a self-contained flat and artist’s studio
Refurbished to an exceptionally high standard and beautifully presented with a garden studio
3 receptions • kitchen with Aga • 6 bedrooms • 5 bathrooms • super indoor pool • gardens • drive • ER/D
2 receptions • kitchen/family room • 5 bedrooms • 3 bathrooms • wonderful garden • parking ER/C
Wimbledon Common
Putney Heath
£3,250,000
£3,250,000
Very attractively presented and extended with a lovely south facing garden near the Common
Comprehensively refurbished with 5,000 sq ft of accommodation overlooking playing fields
3 reception rooms • contemporary kitchen • 5 bedrooms • 4 bath/shower rooms • drive • ER/C
2 receptions • games & cinema rooms • 6 bedrooms • 3 bathrooms • gardens • gated drive • garage • ER/C
Wimbledon Village’s Premier Estate Agent - Sales: +44 (0) 20 8947 9833 Wimbledon Village 020 8947 9833
Riverview Gardens Barnes SW13
£2,850 per calendar month
A fantastic 3 bedroom, 1st floor mansion flat in superb condition, with modern kitchen & bathroom. Comprises 3 double bedrooms, large hallway & 2 balconies. Convenient for Hammersmith underground station. EPC rating D Barnes
020 8748 7733
lettings.barnes@chestertonhumberts.com Additional charges apply. Administration: £222 (VAT included). References per tenant: £42 (VAT included)
Burges Grove Barnes SW13
ÂŁ4,500,000 freehold
An immaculate detached house set on a private road, that has recently been completely redesigned & extended. With a south facing landscaped garden & views over the London wetlands, this imposing house is rare to the market & must be viewed. Comprises 6 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, 4 reception rooms including a separate annexe, garage & off street parking. EPC rating C
Barnes
020 8748 8833
sales.barnes@chestertonhumberts.com
Residents’ Journal
Safety in numbers Russell White, Director of Winkworth Putney and long-time local property expert, explains why investing in the area is such a good idea
P
utney is still one of the most popular destinations for new buyers in the whole of south west London, attracting City workers, families and, more and more often, foreign investors. I’ve been immersed in the area’s property market since 1991, and have spent my entire career here, often seeing the same properties come on the market years apart, while still retaining their intrinsic (and all-important) value. During the past 23 years I have seen many improvements to the area which, along with large houses and abundant gardens, have kept Putney at the forefront of the south west London property market.
One of the major attractions of the area is the convenient transport links into town. Aside from the established train and bus networks, it’s the river taxi running the Putney – Blackfriars – Canary Wharf route which has influenced the latest influx of Putney investors. Recently, I have had many clients seeking properties within walking distance of the river taxi, and this, coupled with the new luxury apartment blocks surrounding east Putney, as well as the opening of Waitrose and Sainsburys, has helped with the progression of East Putney – where house prices are now at a similar level to West Putney. Another reason for this increase in East Putney house values is Brandlehow School, which ranked in the top five schools in London in its most recent Ofsted report, and is drawing parents to invest in the area. Putney has seen fantastic growth in recent years, but remains a good stable market with a wide, variable and diverse housing stock; from purpose-built flats, all the way to large detached family houses in prime West Putney. The sweet spot in the market has been between £1-2 million for a good family house, with prices rising by over 25 per cent in the last 12 months. n
Winkworth Putney, 020 8788 9295 (winkworth.co.uk)
Gwendolen Avenue, SW15 A fine example of a detached property in the Putney area, this 19th-century house features large, interconnecting rooms, including a drawing room, dining room and Marston & Langinger conservatory, ideal for both family living and entertaining. The unique octagonal kitchen with a cathedral ceiling is the focal point of the ground floor, with views over the landscaped rear gardens from the bespoke windows, designed to take maximum advantage of the abundant light and space. The upper floors boast five double bedrooms and two bathrooms, as well as the master suite. The property is located in a tree-lined street often dubbed ‘Putney’s premier address’ and is within walking distance of Putney’s transport links and shops, as well as the area’s most desirable schools.
For more information, contact the Winkworth Putney office on 020 8788 9295 (winkworth.co.uk) - 58 -
Residents’ Journal
Let the sun shine in Robert Holmes Wimbledon presents this light and sunny property in Clifton Road, built to the highest specifications
S
et in a sought-after residential road lined with mature trees just a few hundred yards from the open spaces of Wimbledon Common and a short walk from the amenities of Wimbledon Village, this recently-built detached property has been thoughtfully designed to a high specification by an established conservation architect. It offers a high-tech, minimum-dust, low heat loss environment with spacious accommodation set over three floors.
The ground floor accommodation includes a well-proportioned drawing room with doors to the garden, as well as a formal dining room and a stunning kitchen fitted with top of the range appliances: three Miele ovens (one extra-large oven with rotisserie and pyrolitic cleaning, one standard size oven with pyrolitic cleaning and a third with combi oven) two warming drawers, a Gaggenau American-style fridge and freezer, a Miele dishwasher, a Gaggenau induction hob and barbeque grill, and a Miele coffee maker. Silk black annealed glass work surfaces and breakfast bar add the finishing touch to one of the most well put-together kitchens currently on the market. Downstairs, the lower ground floor is an extremely versatile space, which could be easily adapted to form a self-contained apartment but currently houses an extra-large family/media room, a double bedroom with adjoining shower room, and a further room with tiled floor which is plumbed for a kitchenette and laundry but
which could be used as a fitness room. Three double bedrooms on the first floor, including a master suite with smartly appointed en-suite wet room, complete the interior of the property, along with a large family bathroom/wet room with twin showers, the highest quality German fittings, as well as Carrera marble shelves and large Villeroy and Boch wall and floor tiles with mosaic detailing. Designed to the highest specifications, all rooms in this modern house are continuously ventilated, with heat recovery and air filtration removing the need for daily dusting and offering respiratory health benefits. Under-floor heating throughout the property also ensures temperate conditions throughout the year. Outside, the attractively-landscaped - 59 -
rear courtyard garden is paved in polished limestone and enjoys sunny southerly and westerly aspects. Access to the property is controlled via electronic security gates (for both pedestrians and vehicles) as well as a security camera system. The property also benefits from off-street parking. In close proximity to some of southwest London’s most prestigious schools and sporting venues (including the All England Lawn Tennis Club at Wimbledon), this is an exceptional property ideally suited to families and those looking to explore the leafiness of the Wimbledon area. n
Paddock Lodge, 1A Clifton Road, Wimbledon Village, ÂŁ2,950,000, Freehold. For more information contact Robert Holmes Wimbledon, 020 8947 9833 (robertholmes.co.uk)
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Beverley Close SW13 £3,750,000 Rythe House is a unique double fronted seven-bedroom detached house in prime village location with off-street parking. Originally two houses the current vendor has developed the properties into a large beautiful family home located in the heart of Barnes Village. Set over three floors the house offers stunning open lateral spaces, a 57ft wide garden and an external storage room. Freehold. EPC=E. Joint Sole Agent.
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Melville Road SW13 £3,195,000 This immaculate semi-detached house offers a bright double reception room, which can be separated by French doors into two separate rooms. To the rear is an open plan kitchen/dining area and family room leading out to a decked outdoor entertaining area and a well-maintained 54 ft garden. The upper oors provide a large master bedroom with en suite bathroom, four double bedrooms, a family bathroom, shower room and a study. Freehold. EPC=E. Sole Agents.
BARNES: 020 8563 8333 sales.bar@marshandparsons.co.uk
Local know-how. Better results. Our offices:
Barnes
Brook Green
Earls Court
Holland Park
Marylebone
Pimlico & Westminster
Askew Road
Battersea
Chelsea
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South Kensington
Balham
Bishops Park
Clapham
Hammersmith
Little Venice
Notting Hill
Beverley Close SW13 £3,750,000 Rythe House is a unique double fronted seven-bedroom detached house in prime village location with off-street parking. Originally two houses the current vendor has developed the properties into a large beautiful family home located in the heart of Barnes Village. Set over three floors the house offers stunning open lateral spaces, a 57ft wide garden and an external storage room. Freehold. EPC=E. Joint Sole Agent.
BARNES: 020 8563 8333 sales.bar@marshandparsons.co.uk
Local know-how. Better results. Our offices:
Barnes
Brook Green
Earls Court
Holland Park
Marylebone
Pimlico & Westminster
Askew Road
Battersea
Chelsea
Fulham
Kensington
North Kensington
South Kensington
Balham
Bishops Park
Clapham
Hammersmith
Little Venice
Notting Hill
Madrid Road SW13 £2,250,000 This beautifully refurbished five-bedroom Edwardian family house benefits from a landscaped private garden and off street parking. Having been refurbished to exact standards, the accommodation boasts an elegant reception room with bay window, an open plan kitchen/dining room leading out to the garden, a family room, cloakroom and utility room. The bedroom accommodation comprises a large master bedroom with luxury en suite shower room, four double bedrooms and two bathrooms. Freehold. EPC=D. Sole Agents.
BARNES: 020 8563 8333 sales.bar@marshandparsons.co.uk
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MAY 2014 • Issue 13