Residents’ Journal
South West
This Residents’ Journal represents a fresh, innovative approach to local media, while 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
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Elegant, high-end dwelling exquisitely decorated throughout Matching people and property in London for 150 years.
Dear Resident, As spring brightens into summer this month, it’s time to start thinking about ditching that winter clutter and preparing to show off your home. This issue, the Journal has plenty of suggestions for how to do just that; speaking to artists like Katie Sollohub (p18), giving you the low-down on the top talents to visit during the Wimbledon Art Studios Open House event (from p10) and asking a local expert from The DecorCafe to answer some of your most pressing design queries (p17). Jennifer Mason also quizzes local Barnes resident Will Cooper, founder of lifestyle brand Achica, about the ins and outs of running his business. Find out more from page 14. Elsewhere in the magazine we discover some of the more unusual local events at the Wandsworth Fringe Festival (p21) and sneak in through the stage door at the Richmond and New Wimbledon theatres to catch up with the stars of two of this month’s hottest shows. Comedian Paul Merton chats about his Impro Chums gang, while Strictly Come Dancing stars Kristina Rihanoff and Robin Windsor divulge what it’s like to be part of the razzmatazz of performing in Puttin’ on the Ritz. See pages 22 and 23 for all the gossip. We hope you enjoy the issue.
Colour is Therefore Light by Katie Sollohub, oil on linen, 80x80cm, available to buy as a print. Photograph © Colin Mills See page 18 for more.
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 and Twitter users, make sure you follow us @RWPB_RJ.
Managing Editor Francesca Lee
Editor-in-Chief Lesley Ellwood
Senior Designer Daniel Poole
Client Relationship Manager Friday Dalrymple
Main Editorial Contributor Jennifer Mason
Managing Director Eren Ellwood
Publishing Director Giles Ellwood
Business Development Manager Nicola Bloomfield
Editorial Intern Elizabeth Sersta
General Manager Fiona Fenwick
Executive Director Sophie Roberts
Production Hugo Wheatley / Alex Powell Oscar Viney / Alice Ford
Members of the Professional Publishers Association
Residents’ Journal
NOTEBOOK Keep your finger on the pulse with our roundup of local news
Proposed ‘Pedestrianned’ Shopping Area in Lower George Street by D.J. Draper, 1962
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Prints preview A new online resource launched by the council’s Local Studies Library and Archive offers residents the chance to explore the hidden treasures of Richmond upon Thames through a collection of prints. Available too is an interactive map showcasing some of the highlights of the thousands of prints and additional records which form the vast Local Studies collection housed in Richmond’s Old Town Hall. ‘I can’t think of a better way for the borough to promote its artistic heritage than by publishing these fabulous works online,’ said Cllr Meena Bond, the cabinet member for culture. ‘It’s accessible to all, free and most importantly, tells the story of why Richmond is the most beautiful place in the country to live, work and visit.’
(richmond.gov.uk/localstudies)
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Art on court A new exhibition, Powerful Posters, has opened recently at the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum, located at the home of the world-famous championships. The exhibition captures the rich history of tennis culture, fashions and traditions throughout the ages through a series of posters dating from 1893 to the present day – including the controversial and iconic Athena shot Tennis Girl, which sold more than two million copies worldwide.
The exhibition runs until March 2016, museum entry £13 (£11 concessions, £8 children), museum entry plus tour £24 (£21 concessions, £15 children), 10am5.30pm daily (except certain dates during The Championships, see website for details). Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum, Gate 4, All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club, SW19 5AE, 020 8946 6131 (wimbledon.com)
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New opening Popular local florist Gardenia opened a fourth branch in Teddington last month, bringing its trademark beautiful bouquets to a new patch of south-west London.
122 High Street, Teddington, TW11 8JB, 020 3745 6942 (gardeniaoflondon.co.uk) Images courtesy of AELTC
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Residents’ Journal
SW13
A rare sight There’s cause for celebration at the WWT London Wetland Centre in Barnes after three rare Nene goslings hatched last month. Only about 1,000 Nenes [pronounced ‘nay-nay’ after the sound of their call] survive in the wild in their native Hawaii, but the species thrives in the captive breeding programme at the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust thanks to founder Sir Peter Scott.
WWT London Wetland Centre, Queen Elizabeth’s Walk, Barnes, SW13 9WT, 020 8409 4400 (wwt.org.uk)
Jess Eddie
Nene gosling. Image courtesy of WWT
SW15
Sponsorship support As she prepares for a hectic year ahead during trials for the 2016 Rio Olympics, local rower Jess Eddie will have extra support from her local shopping arcade. The centre is sponsoring the Olympian in the hopes that it will enable Jess to upgrade her boat and boost her training. ‘My current boat is very old and I’ve not been able to upgrade it due to the high cost of a new one,’ Jess told the Journal. ‘I’m very grateful to Putney Exchange Shopping Centre for investing several thousand pounds in supporting and promoting my career.’
(putneyexchange.co.uk)
Garden growth Exhibition dates
Over the next year, a new exhibition called Feeding London will celebrate the long history of market gardening in Museum of Richmond: 1 May to 1 Sept the area. Touring three different Old Town Hall, Whittaker Avenue, TW9 1TP, venues across south-west London 020 8332 1141 (museumofrichmond.com) between this month and February 2016, the exhibition, which has Library, Royal Botanic Gardens: 18 Sept to 23 Dec been created by volunteers from Kew, TW9 3AB, 020 8332 5655 (kew.org/library) the Jam Yesterday Jam Tomorrow project, will trace the growth, peak Squires Garden centre: 11 Jan to 15 Feb 2016 and decline of the production of fruit, Sixth Cross Road, Twickenham, TW2 5PA, vegetables and flowers in the area. 020 8977 9241 The story of local market gardens (squiresgardencentres.co.uk) reveals the change in land use and methods of growing arising from the need to Left: Woman carrying increase food production in the strawberries © Guildhall 1800s. London’s ever-growing Library, City of London population, the effect of WWII on the industry, the impact of Right: Women working at Kew new technology such as the Gardens in the 1940s. railways and motor vehicles and © Kew Botanical Gardens the legacies left by the industry in the area will be examined through painstakingly collected historical documents and memories of local people who once worked in the industry.
(jamyesterdayjamtomorrow.com) -5-
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A new face There’s a new head chef, Adebola Adeshina, at The Petersham Restaurant and he brings with him a wealth of knowledge, having built his career working with Gordon Ramsay at Aubergine for six years, Marcus Wareing at Pétrus, Philip Howard at The Square, Éric Chavot at The Capital and Tom Ilic at Bonds. Chef Ade has won several awards and previously represented London as a regional finalist in The Great British Menu competition. His menus, which include creative dishes like steamed lasagne of Cornish crab with a tomato and coconut sauce, change with each season and will always pay homage to the great British classics that guests have come to expect at the restaurant in Richmond.
The Petersham Hotel, Nightingale Lane, Richmond, TW10 6UZ, 020 8939 1084 (petershamhotel.co.uk)
Residents’ Journal
© Ververidis Vasilis / Shutterstock.com
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New collection
Sports celebration
Just in time for the summer ‘bikini blitz’ season, B London Boutique in Barnes has launched its first range of activewear – stocking the likes of new active luxe brand Varley and, exclusively in the UK, California lifestyle and yoga brand La Vie Bohème. This year, why not get beach ready in style?
Join in the fun at this year’s Summer Social event, which mixes fast-paced rugby matches (as well as other sports) with music, drinks and general merriment.
Spectator tickets from £20, 30 May, Richmond Athletic Ground, Twickenham Road, Richmond, TW9 2SF (summersocial.co.uk)
16 Barnes High Street, SW13 9LW, 020 8876 7577 (blondonboutique.com)
Varley Ester Black Snake sweater, £65
Varley Margot crop top, £35
Varley Lauren compression leggings, £75
Mayor of Merton Councillor Agatha Akyigyina [centre] stands beside the new banners outside the civic centre to mark the anniversary with Merton Council’s longest serving member of staff Lew Block [right], plus Merton Council staff
Varley Penelope Python top, £50
Borough birthday This year, the borough of Merton celebrates 50 years since its formation in April 1965. The new London Borough of Merton brought together the former urban district of Merton and Morden with the boroughs of Wimbledon and Mitcham to act as a single governing authority. Mayor of Merton, Councillor Agatha Akyigyina, said: ‘As the 50th mayor of the borough, I am proud to be part of the anniversary celebrations to mark this important milestone in local government. I know there will be many great events over the next 12 months and that the Council and borough will continue to go from strength to strength.’
(merton.gov.uk)
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Art by Katie Sollohub / Photograph © Colin Mills
Art talks Join the creative Katie Sollohub, recent Artist in Residence at Turner’s House in Twickenham, for an educational afternoon session where she will discuss her experiences and answer any questions the audience may have. Katie, who has spent the past two years exploring the house through her work, is thrilled that the property is about to be restored. Find out more on page 18 of the Journal, where she chats to Jennifer Mason.
£10 (£8 concessions), 16 May, talk at 3pm including tea and time for questions at the Coach House, Orleans House Gallery, Riverside, Twickenham, TW1 3DJ , 020 8831 6000 (richmond.gov.uk/orleans_house_gallery). The talk will be followed by an optional tour (£3.50) at 4.45pm of Turner’s House, Sandycombe Lodge, 40 Sandycoombe Road, Twickenham, TW1 2LR (turnerintwickenham.org.uk) -6-
PR ADO settee with cushion & EVERY WHERE sideboard. Design: Christian Werner. LUMIĂˆRE NOIRE floor lamps. Design: Philippe Nigro.
23-25 Mortimer Street London W1T 3JE 0207 323 1248 www.ligne-roset-westend.co.uk
Residents’ Journal
The Calendar A selection of the best events happening in the area
10 May
10-16 May
13 May
An exclusive visit
Nostalgic theatre
Ladies who lunch
This month, Warren House will be assisting the National Garden Scheme in raising money for its causes by holding exclusive tours of the house and its grounds. There will also be an exhibition based on Vicky Good’s book The Warren House Tales, which brings to life the social history of the six families that have lived in Warren House over the past 150 years, and a chance to visit the Veitch Japanese Water Gardens next door.
Relive one of TV’s best-loved comedy series on the stage this month as the Teddington Theatre Club brings to life the BBC’s Dad’s Army, which follows the day-to-day lives of the Home Guard of Walmington-on-Sea who battle daily against the Germans and local ARP Warden Hodges. Filled with all your favourite larger-than-life characters under the command of the redoubtable Captain Mainwaring and his self-effacing deputy Sergeant Wilson, this entertaining show brings to life an iconic part of Britain’s war history.
GB rower, Olympic medallist and Women’s Boat Race umpire Sarah Winckless will be the guest speaker at this month’s Really Helpful Club lunch event. An excellent opportunity to meet other dynamic and inspiring women, the lunch will also be raising funds for the children’s hospice Shooting Star Chase and The Huntington’s Association, charities of which Sarah is patron.
£3.50 for adults, children free (entry to Veitch Japanese Water Gardens additional £3.50 for adults), afternoon tea costs extra, 2pm5pm, tours at 2pm, 3pm and 4pm – booking essential for tours and tea. Warren House, Warren Road, Kingston upon Thames, KT2 7HY, 020 8547 1777 (warrenhouse.com)
£14 (£12 members) Sunday 10 May at 6pm, otherwise 7.45pm. Hampton Hill Playhouse, 90 High Street, Hampton Hill, TW12 1NZ (teddingtontheatreclub.org.uk)
£40, includes two-course sit-down lunch plus wine, open to Really Helpful Club members only, 12noon-2.30pm. London Rowing Club, Embankment, Putney, SW15 1LB. To book, or for more information on the event or becoming an RHC member, contact Sarah Austin via email sarah@reallyhelpfulclub.com (reallyhelpfulclub.com)
an exclusive visit
Courtesy of Warren House
nostalgic theatre
ladies who lunch -8-
Residents’ Journal
14 May
16 May
31 May
vintage celebration
Hidden treasures
Life on the lawn
As part of the Museums at Night festival, the Museum of Richmond is hosting a special evening dedicated to exploring the history of fashion in the borough through material and costume. Collaborating with Richmond Adult and Community College fashion students and the local Cancer Research UK charity shop, guests will enjoy a catwalk through the Old Town Hall showcasing the changing trends of Richmond’s fashion. Don your favourite vintage outfit and sashay on down to the Retro Richmond Fashion Night!
Every year, gardens in south-west London are opened to the public as part of a biannual event organised by The Ham and Petersham Association. They range from the grand to the intimate and are all within easy walking distance of Ham Common. Attractions include the grounds of Cassel Hospital, Ormeley Lodge, cottages in Evelyn Road and a number of community gardens of special interest. Proceeds from the event will be put towards community environmental projects.
As people across south-west London shed their winter layers and embrace the summer sunshine that’s bound to last for months (we’re keeping our fingers crossed), Integrated Neurological Services (INS), a local charity, is hosting a charming garden party at Trumpeters’ House. Enjoy this rare opportunity to explore; delight in taking tea and cakes on the lawn; hum, sing or tap your feet along with live music; browse the myriad stalls or treat the little ones to some face painting.
£10 each or £15 for two, children free, entry price includes a map, 2pm-5pm. Tickets will be sold on the day at a stall near St Thomas Aquinas Church, Ham Street, TW10 7HT (hamandpetersham.com)
£5, students £3.50, children under 12 go free, 2pm-5pm, Trumpeters’ House, Old Palace Yard, Richmond Green, TW9 1PD. To book call INS on 020 8755 4000 or email admin@ins.org.uk (ins.org.uk)
Free, no booking required, 5.30pm-8pm. Museum of Richmond, Old Town Hall, Whittaker Avenue, TW9 1TP, 020 8332 1141 (museumofrichmond.com)
vintage celebration
Hidden treasures life on the lawn
Courtesy of INS
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Residents’ Journal
ones watch The
to
Ten fascinating artists to visit during the Wimbledon Art Studios Open Studios festival this month
Sarah Grove Ceramicist
In her work, Sarah juxtaposes sumptuous upholstery and rich textured fabrics with the smooth cool of ceramics. Her functional porcelain vessels suggest comfort and luxury, their simplicity of form enhanced by the whiteness and translucency of the porcelain. This simplicity balances the rich surfaces on which details such as braiding and buttoning are picked out with glaze and mother-of-pearl lustre.
(sarahgrove.co.uk)
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his month, Wimbledon Art Studios, a community of more than 150 artists, will open its doors to the public for a free festival lauding all kinds of art. This celebration will be the 37th of its kind since the studios, a recognised creative hub spanning well-established and emerging artists including painters, sculptors, illustrators, designers, photographers and printmakers, opened in 1993. The four-day event is the only opportunity for art lovers to explore the studios, purchase original artwork and find out what goes on behind the scenes at this creative hub. The most recent show,
and the chance to meet artists whose work is generally shown at main international art fairs and prestigious galleries, attracted more than 4,000 visitors. If you’re planning to be one of them this time around, read on for the Journal’s guide to the must-see exhibitions.
Free entry, 14-17 May, Thursday 2pm-10pm, Friday 2pm-9pm, Saturday and Sunday 11am-6pm. Wimbledon Art Studios, 10 Riverside Yard, Riverside Road, SW17 0BB. For more information, email enquiries@wimbledonartstudios.co.uk or visit the website: wimbledonartstudios.co.uk
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Residents’ Journal
You were Shit in the 80s, Part One (Lucien Freud)
You were Shit in the 80s, Part Two (Francis Bacon)
Whistler’s Mum
Andrew ‘Mackie’ McIntosh Painter
Mackie paints ethereal landscapes with a focus on isolated ageing buildings. What makes his work special is that, inside these structures are delicately and minutely reproduced iconic works from modern and contemporary art. Each relates to an argument between two artists, for example, one pair of paintings references the long-standing friendship between Lucian Freud and Francis Bacon which deteriorated into a spiteful tit-for-tat. Freud’s 1989 Standing by the Rags appears in a crumbling Victorian building in Toxteth, while Bacon’s Second Version of Triptych 1944 occupies an abandoned asylum near Glasgow.
(mackie-art.com)
Rakel Blom
Fashion designer Rakel’s collections have been described as colourful, happy and affordable. Originally from Iceland, she moved to London to set up her own company. Armed with a workshop in Wimbledon, two sewing machines and plenty of good ideas, Rakel not only designs her clothes but also hand-makes every single item. The World Through my Eyes is her first commercial collection – it’s incredibly fun and guaranteed to (literally) brighten up your day.
(rakelblom.com)
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Residents’ Journal
Paresha Raj
Jewellery designer Following on from a career in buying and product development for fashion jewellery brands, Paresha earned an MA in Design from the Sir John Cass School of Art in London and now creates her own jewellery collections for her brand Raj Burnett Jewellery. She spends a lot of time researching the meanings behind jewellery – the stories and detailed histories – from which she produces innovative designs. Her current collections explore floral and organic shapes with Art Nouveau styling.
(rajburnett.com)
Staying Up
Alex Rennie Painter
Alex’s recent work, comprising mainly oil paintings stretched on canvas and linen, features building hoardings and construction timbers, symbolising transition and growth in the city. He aspires to capture the feel of a place, rather than to present a photographic snapshot. His previous works have been dominated by portraiture and figure painting, often with a narrative inspired by stories, myths and old master painters, particularly Goya and Rembrandt.
(alexrennie.co.uk)
Citroen DS © Freireprintz 1958
Aston Martin DB5 © Freireprintz
Ella Freire
Screen-printer Ella creates limited-edition screenprints, which cover an eclectic mix of subjects in bright, bold colours. She exhibits twice a year at the Open Studios as well as at shops and galleries across London. Much of her work is inspired by her love of vintage bus tickets, 1930s luggage labels, 1960s cameras and other retro objects and her recent collection focuses on classic cars.
(freireprintz.co.uk)
Fiat 500 © Freireprintz
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Residents’ Journal
Diviya B Pasgon
Artist and printmaker Divya has a masters degree in Drawing and Printmaking from Camberwell College of Art, London. As well as producing her own collections of prints, she teaches introductory and intermediate level screen printing classes through her company The Printing Tree Studio which is located at Wimbledon Art Studios. Her work is a meditation on preciousness and value in creating art.
(theprintingtreestudio.com)
Jacqui Kelly
Bill Bate
Jacqui is an award-winning food artist and also teaches and demonstrates cake decorating in the UK and internationally. Her background in theatre and the arts influences her sugar and chocolate work, and her customers include the likes of the Queen.
Bill, who was born in 1962 and studied at the Central School of Art, has been painting for more than 20 years and during that time has focused his striking and dramatic style on depicting the intimacy of humanity. His paintings feature powerful opposites that lead to potently atmospheric and emotionally charged pieces. His use of colour and movement embodies the complexities and excitement as well as the violence and tenderness of the human experience.
Cake designer
Painter
(billbate.co.uk) Ephemeral 11, £3,500
(totallysugar.co.uk)
Rob Murray Cartoonist
Having drawn for the likes of The Sunday Times, The Spectator, Private Eye and many other revered titles, it’s likely that you’ve seen Rob’s work before. His gag cartoons appear regularly in a wide variety of media publications, but he has also illustrated best-selling books and produces artwork and humorous editorial for a broad range of businesses.
(robmurraycartoons.com) - 13 -
Residents’ Journal
Design online
Jennifer Mason quizzes Barnes resident Will Cooper, founder of lifestyle brand ACHICA, about the business, how it’s grown over the past five years and what it will be doing to support British designers in the months ahead
All images from the ACHICA ‘Inspired Garden’ Collection for Spring/Summer 2015. Available to buy from May - September
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Residents’ Journal
What did the start-up process involve? Quentin and I funded ACHICA ourselves initially. We got some good early traction and this attracted venture capital investment. We thought at the time that we were setting up a very similar model to fashion sites – i.e. to sell overstock – but within a month of getting buyers together, we realised we could actually buy predominantly current line stock. To this day, ACHICA sells mainly live lines from famous name brands.
Describe the most challenging part of the business. ACHICA has grown phenomenally over the last five years, so keeping pace with this growth has its own challenges. We’ve had to scale quickly in terms of the workforce and physical space as well as continue to find new brands to keep our customers excited.
The majority of our customers are extremely affluent and have the ability to shop anywhere What’s the biggest mistake that you’ve made? Believing that you can get everything right. In a new business that’s growing at a rapid pace, it’s important to make sure you get the big things right and recover from the smaller hiccups as quickly as possible.
F
ive years ago, Will Cooper and his business partner Quentin Griffiths came up with an idea that has launched one of the most successful luxury lifestyle brands of recent times, ACHICA; a members-only site where customers can purchase designer brands at discounted prices during time-sensitive sales. As a huge fan of the site myself (although my credit card is less fond of my ACHICA addiction) I was interested to see whether everything has always been driftwood hearts and silk flowers or whether the brand and the team behind it have faced more than the usual challenges.
You founded the business in the years following the financial meltdown of 2007-8. Did that put any restrictions on your plans for the brand?
What was your inspiration behind founding the brand? Initially when Quentin and I had the idea for ACHICA, we were told it would never work. There was very little confidence within the industry that people would purchase furniture online without having physically inspected it first. The business aimed to offer customers access to beautiful furniture and home accessories within an inspiring online experience at exceptional prices, by offering time-limited promotions that enabled us to hold no stock and thus pass on these logistical and operational savings to our customers.
Not really – if anything, customers were more receptive to our business model which makes high-quality top brands more accessible. They’re extremely savvy. It’s very interesting when we speak to them to find that they love us because they enjoy the thrill of a bargain – they revel in getting a quality brand at an exceptional price. The majority of our customers are extremely affluent and have the ability to shop anywhere, but they choose ACHICA as they have confidence in their own tastes and enjoy using us as a resource to create a beautiful home.
What would you say have been the business’s defining moments? Reaching four million members was a pretty amazing milestone, as is our fifth birthday which we are celebrating this year.
What can we expect from the brand in the future? We’re supporting home-grown British design. As part
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Residents’ Journal
of our fifth birthday celebrations we’re sponsoring the May Design Series and New Design Britain accessories category. Later this year we’ll launch a ‘pop-up’ shop on the website, highlighting the five finalists of the category and their wonderful homeware products.
Have you been inspired by anyone particularly in the business world? Chris Gent, CEO of Vodafone. As a financial PR and consultant in my early career I worked with Chris and rated him highly as he took Vodafone from a small telecoms company in Newbury to the largest telecoms company in the world.
What advice would you give to someone who is considering starting their own business? Have patience and make sure you have the right people around you.
You’re a Barnes resident – why did you choose to live in this part of London? Prior to having children we lived on the South Bank and enjoyed being in the centre of the city. We’re currently ‘testing the water’ in Barnes by renting to see if our children settle into their new schools and to experience the benefits of city life combined with life on the river, greenery and a village atmosphere. Barnes also has some fantastic independent shops – everything we need is within walking distance, so thus far our ‘experiment’ is paying dividends. n
(achica.com)
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Residents’ Journal
Ask
the expert The DecorCafe Network’s Debbie Blott answers Journal readers’ most pressing home and garden design questions I live in an early Victorian house with a large wood-panelled open fireplace that dominates our living room. Do you think it would work if I painted it the same colour as the walls? Painting furniture and architectural features is an effective, easy and inexpensive way to create a more cohesive look for a room. However, you may choose to paint the panels one or two shades darker, rather than the exact same shade as the walls, to retain the individual character of the piece without the dark wood colouring. Consider applying the paint in fine layers to allow a hint of the grain to show through. We’ve painted our sitting room walls a lovely pale grey with white woodwork and a white ceiling and yet, although there’s a window, the room still isn’t as light as I would like it to be. A friend has suggested that I put a large mirror on the wall above the sofa to reflect the light. Do you think this is a good idea? Carefully placed mirrors are a great way to enhance the lighting, particularly when positioned to bounce light across a narrow hallway or to blur the boundaries of a small room, but it’s important to consider exactly what will be reflected in the glass. If the mirror is directly opposite shelves of books or a large TV screen, it may actually have a negative impact on the light. In this case, an accent light that draws the eye to an attractive aspect of the room will be more effective. Ensure you’re making the most of the daylight with curtains or blinds that let the maximum amount of light into your room. An elegant neutral colour palette might benefit from the addition of a pop of colour in artwork or accessories which will inject light and life. Bright yellow scatter cushions, a vibrant painting
© Interior Designer Nikki Rees, member of The DecorCafe Network
or even just a large vase of daffodils will make a surprising difference to the sense of light in your room. We’re planning to redesign our tiny patio garden this summer. Do you have any tips? It’s important to have a really clear vision of exactly how you want it to look before you begin. Start by leafing through magazines to establish what you like and don’t like. Then, put together a design board to include the materials, layout and planting approach. For example, do you want flooring that flows seamlessly from kitchen to patio with a
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similar stone or wood throughout, or would you prefer green grass – and if so, is there enough light to grow turf or would you be better off with astro turf? Just like any room in the house, it’s important to have the shape of the design and a good quality infrastructure, drainage and electrics in place before you consider the decorative aspects of plants and furniture. n
If you have a design question you’d like an expert opinion on, email myhome@thedecorcafe.com (thedecorcafe.com)
Residents’ Journal
Colour is Therefore Light by Katie Sollohub, oil on linen, 80x80cm, available to buy as a print. Photograph © Colin Mills
Katie Sollohub © Sarah Ketelaars
Home
is where the art is
Jennifer Mason meets Katie Sollohub, the recent artist-inresidence at J.M.W. Turner’s house, Sandycombe Lodge, as the exhibition of her work comes to a close this month
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T
ucked away down an innocuous residential street in Twickenham sits one of the UK’s best-hidden architectural treasures; Sandycombe Lodge – the house that Turner built. In November 2013, I met Catherine Parry-Wingfield, chairman of Turner’s House Trust, an organisation dedicated to restoring this crumbling mansion to its former glory. At the time, she and her team were mired in the process of applying for grants, fundraising and keeping on top of the property’s numerous problems. Since then the coffers have begun to fill, but before any restoration takes place, the Trust thought it important to record for posterity the shell of J.M.W. Turner’s architectural début – so they called in Katie Sollohub, an artist known for her emotive representations of spaces and places. Katie, a resident of West Sussex, was to visit Sandycombe once a week and make an artistic study of her reflections. Although she began travelling to Twickenham infrequently two years ago, the
Residents’ Journal
© Jennifer Mason
project only began in earnest after an Arts Council England grant in May 2014 enabled her financially to increase the frequency of her trips. Since then, Katie has spent one day (or night) a week exploring the house through the medium of charcoal and oil paint, with some stunning results. ‘I didn’t start with any particular plans or preconceived notions in mind,’ she tells me, ‘it was just about experiencing the space. But as I became more familiar with the house, the weather and seasons began to play a much greater part in the project.’ The first few months that Katie spent at Sandycombe were during the summer, so she began by taking stock of the house’s exterior and creating several studies of the iconic hallway (designed in partnership with famous architect Sir John Soane) along with bright, colourful oils of interior scenes from the (infamously yellow) basement. ‘I think you get to know a place like you get to know a person, from the outside in,’ she muses. It wasn’t until the cold weather drew in and Katie took refuge in the main sitting room that she realised the significance of the full-length window. ‘I took inspiration from the fact that this was a view Turner would have enjoyed on many occasions,’ she says. ‘The scenery might have changed somewhat, but when you look up into the sky, the clouds passing and the changing weather patterns are the same as the experiences he would have had (though the aeroplanes are new!). That made me consider lifesize drawings and paintings, using the window as a frame.’ Completing a life-size piece means working
Katie Sollohub © Sarah Ketelaars
I think you get to know a place like you get to know a person, from the outside in
on the floor, which can be a messy process. ‘That’s initially why I worked in charcoal,’ Katie laughs. ‘I didn’t want to be sitting around in my oil paints quite as often!’ Charcoal, according to Katie, was an ideal medium for capturing what she saw from Turner’s window, but as she spent more time in the house, looking out into the garden, her process began to develop. ‘One day in January I decided to paint an early snowdrop that had appeared. I used mud from the garden mixed with PVA glue to prime the white canvas – and I loved the result. I’ve continued to use it in my latest work, including large-scale canvases. Putting a physical part of the house onto the canvas is something very special.’ Working in a place which was once the creative hub of one of Britain’s most famous artists must appeal to her, I suggest. ‘It’s interesting, because in many ways there’s nothing of Turner left in the house,’ Katie replies thoughtfully. ‘But then again, he designed the whole building. It was originally created by an artist as a space to live and work in. I was very aware, especially at first, that this was Turner’s house – particularly when I was working in the hallway. I loved to imagine him coming in and out. I didn’t find it oppressive, though. I felt that if there were any remnants of him left, he would approve of my work and of what the Trust is trying to achieve.’ As we take a final stroll around the exhibition, I think back on my first impressions of Sandycombe Lodge when I visited a year-and-a-half ago. I remember feeling a great sense of dormancy – as though underneath the 200 years of modern extensions, garish ’70s paint jobs and general wear and tear, the original property, as it was in Turner’s day, had remained intact; biding its time, waiting for something. I share my musings with Katie, and she smiles. ‘After his death, Turner wanted to leave a refuge for destitute local artists,’ she explains. ‘That never happened, but I think he would be proud that the Trust is actively encouraging artists like me to engage with his house. In some ways, it’s keeping the spirit of his final wishes alive.’ n
The exhibition A Guest in Turner’s House runs until 24 May at the Stables Gallery, Riverside, Twickenham, TW1 3DY, 020 8831 6000, and entry is free. For more information about Katie and her other work, visit katiesollohub.co.uk To find out more about Turner’s Sandycombe Lodge, visit turnerintwickenham.org.uk
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RUNWILD MEDIA GROUP
WE ARE HIRING!
SALES EXECUTIVES Location
South West Office, Putney Bridge
Hours of work
Monday - Friday, 8.45am - 5.30pm
Salary
ÂŁ20,000 - ÂŁ25,000 Plus commission
Runwild Media Group is a dynamic, independent publishing house and a leader in the luxury magazine industry. We specialise in producing monthly luxury titles, bespoke publications and a host of media solutions which produce remarkable commercial results.
We are seeking a driven and dynamic individual to join us as a Sales Executive to oversee the growth of long term client relationships and partnerships, as well as bringing in new business. You will be responsible for identifying opportunities with both new and existing clients through effective marketing activities. The successful applicant will demonstrate strong sales, marketing and business acumen and will be a highly motivated and organised individual, as well as being personable, commercially minded and an excellent communicator.
Please send your CV and covering letter to: careers@runwildgroup.co.uk
Residents’ Journal
©Ken Cole
6-9 May
Musical mayhem Based on Whoopi Goldberg’s iconic 1992 movie Sister Act, this new musical theatre experience of the same name, performed by the Putney Light Operatic Society, brings songs and laughter to the Fringe. The Society is the first group to be given rights to perform the musical following its stint in the West End and its national tour, so sit back, relax and prepare to enjoy the exploits of disco diva-turned-nun Deloris Van Cartier and her feisty sidekicks.
5-17 May
£16 (£14 concessions) Wednesday to Friday at 7.45pm, Saturday at 2.30pm and 7.45pm. Putney Arts Theatre, Ravenna Road, SW15 6AW, 020 8788 6943 (putneyartstheatre.org.uk)
Art exhibition
Spotlight on...
An exciting chance to view the work of artist Ken Cole in an intimate setting. His current collection comprises screenprints, guitar assemblages and autobiographical drawings inspired by vintage American comic books subverted with contemporary quotes, collage and overprinting.
THE WANDSWORTH FRINGE FESTIVAL
Free but times vary, call 020 8788 6943 for more information. Putney Arts Theatre, Ravenna Road, SW15 6AW (putneyartstheatre.org.uk)
Five unusual events taking place in the Putney area this month
16 May
Have your say Roehampton Radio is giving local residents the chance to record their own 15-minute slot during the festival which will be broadcast following the event. If you’ve got something to say, get in touch now.
Free, 12noon-5pm. Roehampton Library Green, Danebury Avenue, SW15 4HD, 020 7061 6454 (sparetyre.org)
Into the dark
10 May
Are you ready for a completely new theatrical experience? SENSES, a play by the unusual Swallowed Whole Theatre Company, aims to put the audience in sensory overload, bringing them into a dark, cold and claustrophobic space to explore a spine-tingling adventure. If you’re a fan of unusual theatre, this is one not to be missed.
Rhyme time If you like your poetry with a pint or two, the Putney Poetry event offers you the chance to enjoy both. Join local poet Eddie Forde as he leads the session, reading work on the theme of change. Come just to listen, or bring your own choices to share, if you’re so inclined.
Free, booking essential, drinks provided, suitable for ages 18 and over, 7pm-8pm. The Arch/Under Putney Bridge, St Mary’s Church, Putney High Street, SW15 1SN (swallowedwholethea.wix.com/swallowedwhole)
Free, 5pm-7pm. The Green Man Public House, Wildcroft Road, Putney Heath, SW15 3NG (putneypoems.co.uk) All images courtesy of the Wandsworth Fringe Festival
1, 7, 8, 9, 13 and 14 May
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Residents’ Journal
company Dancers Kristina Rihanoff and Robin Windsor answer the Journal’s questions about starring in the New Wimbledon Theatre’s latest show Puttin’ on the Ritz
What do you love about dancing to the style of music in Puttin’ on the Ritz?
great opportunity for us to dance this style. We plan to add our own stamp on the era.
Kristina: It takes you back to the roots of classic ballroom dancing, the foxtrot, waltz and quickstep. It’s evocative of the golden era of Fred Astaire, wonderfully classy and it takes us back to our ballroom roots.
What’s been the greatest challenge to date?
Robin: It’s both classical and traditional. We’re known for upbeat dances on Strictly Come Dancing, but we actually love more traditional ballroom dancing too, so this is a
Robin: Eight shows a week will be hard work! I had to stop dancing for a while because of a back injury, so I am very much looking forward to getting my fitness back. Also, Kristina and I are usually very vivacious dancers, so this is a great opportunity to show our softer side.
Kristina: Whenever you create a new routine from scratch it’s always a challenge, but also exciting.
What’s been your favourite moment so far? Kristina: It will be opening night, which is always nerve wracking, but very exciting. Robin: It’s fantastic to work with Pixie [Lott] and Trent [Whiddon]. Dancing with Kristina also makes me very happy, especially as I’ve not been able to dance with her for seven months.
How does this musical show off your strengths and test your weaknesses? Kristina: The physical endurance of preparing and performing eight shows a week is testing, but we thrive on it and hopefully this will show our strengths. The feeling of burning in your muscles takes me back to the competitive days – you spend hours and hours training – I’m addicted to it!
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Have you learnt anything new while being a part of the show? Robin: I have always wanted to learn how to tap dance, which lots of the cast do, so I am hoping one of them will teach me!
What’s your favourite kind of music to dance to, and why? Kristina: It really depends on my mood; if I’m feeling upbeat I like to dance to current music, while for relaxing I particularly love Ed Sheeran and Sam Smith. But I also enjoy Michael Bublé and the ‘greats’ like Fred Astaire and Frank Sinatra. Robin: I have no favourite in particular, I just love to move.
What will we see from you next, and what are your future plans? Kristina: Robin and I are talking about our own show in 2016 – we love to create and choreograph and enjoy working together. Robin: We’re waiting to hear about Strictly this year but right now I want to concentrate on the job in hand – Puttin’ on the Ritz – which we can’t wait to start! n
27-30 May, tickets from £17.90, 7.30pm (Thursday and Saturday matinees 2.30pm). New Wimbledon Theatre, The Broadway, SW19 1QG, 0844 871 7646 (atgtickets.com/wimbledon)
Residents’ Journal
A DAY
inlife the LIFE of... of...
paul merton The comedian and television presenter chats to us ahead of his new show Impro Chums, which comes to the Richmond Theatre this month
You’ve had many different aspects to your career – do you prefer live stage comedy or recorded television?
What makes it special for the audience?
It has to be live. It’s the most fun of all the mediums. There’s no hiding place, no laughter track and no cutaways. People ask me why I do Comedy Store Players and Impro Chums, and the answer is that it keeps me match-fit. If I go away on holiday for two weeks, I come back to find that everyone else has sped up 10 per cent. It takes me until the interval to catch up! There’s such a thrill in the notion of playing, say, a Bulgarian lion-tamer trying to explain in fractured Spanish that the yoghurt in the fridge has gone off. It’s a complete delight.
Every night is, by its nature, a total one-off. I feel I should say at the end of every show: ‘Don’t worry – this will never happen again!’
What’s the most challenging thing about it? If nobody’s laughing, you’re doing something wrong. You have to guard against complacency when you’re doing improvisation. In a rehearsed piece, you could fall into the trap of reciting your lines as you said them last night; but we can’t do that in Impro Chums.
You began your improvisation career on Whose Line Is It Anyway. What was the initial reaction to this kind of entertainment? Some people thought it was fixed, but that idea was just silly. As improvisers, we all embark on sentences without knowing how they will end, but we hope to take them to entertaining heights.
Why do you enjoy it so much? It’s just doing what we all do as kids – playing endless, imaginative games. Improvisation is like playtime – the bit of school you liked. If you spark off each other, it creates a really good spirit; the spirit of the playground. I still get the same buzz as ever from doing it. Once the audience’s trust has been won and the laughter has started, you can really start to play. There is a tremendous thrill in seeing something completely unexpected unfold before you. You’ve taken a shouted-out suggestion and it has turned into a brilliant scene. You’ve been part of creating it and that’s really satisfying.
Paul and the Impro Chums
How does the show’s dynamic work? There’s a shorthand between us. The key is that we all get on really well. If you have a situation where two members of an improvisation group aren’t getting on, it spills over into the work and every scene they do together quickly becomes an argument. So the familiarity of the Chums really helps the show.
What’s the best part, for you? We don’t have to learn any lines. We can do it all off the top of our heads, and that’s an absolute joy. n
See Paul Merton’s Impro Chums on 19 May at 8pm, £24.90. Richmond Theatre, The Green, TW9 1QJ, 0844 871 7651 (atgtickets.com/ richmond)
© Idil Sukan, Draw HQ
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Residents’ Journal
PARENTS & KIDS Half-term events to keep the nippers entertained
23-24 May
26 May
Fairytale in miniature An on-stage adaptation of Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom, the BAFTA award-winning television animation from the makers of Peppa Pig, is bound to delight your little explorers. The story follows young fairy princess Holly and her best friend Ben the elf who live in the Little Kingdom, a tiny land where flowers and grass rise high above them and every day is an adventure. Join the excitable duo and their friends for an enchanting trip to the land of make-believe packed full of games, songs and laughter.
£16.40-£33.40, Saturday at 1pm and 4pm, Sunday at 10am and 1pm. Richmond Theatre, The Green, TW9 1QJ, 0844 871 7651 (atgtickets.com/richmond)
Town planners Using the creative power of Lego, budding architects and town planners can hone their skills by building their own vehicles and working in teams to design and create their own town road systems. The plans will join up in the centre of the room to form the ultimate interconnecting road network on which to play.
£28, includes a free play after the workshop, suitable for ages five to 11. 10am-12noon at Eddie Catz Putney, 1st Floor, 68-70 Putney High Street, SW15 1SF, and 2.30pm-4.30pm at Eddie Catz Wimbledon, 42 Station Road, SW19 2LP, 020 3475 5268 (eddiecatz.com)
26-29 May
Walk on the wild side At two sites on Wimbledon Common, youngsters can enjoy exploring the great outdoors while learning how to make tools and objects from natural materials, how to stay warm and comfortable whatever the weather, how to identify local flora and fauna and how to make and use fire safely, all while developing their communication and self-awareness skills. The six-hour day course is perfect for unleashing their inner Ray Mears or Bear Grylls during this half-term.
£42 for a one-day course, 10.15am-4pm, suitable for ages five to 12. Wimbledon Common Springwell, at the junction of Sunset Road and Windmill Road, SW19 4UW or Wimbledon Common Windmill, Windmill Road, Wimbledon Common, SW19 5NR, 01483 424 400 (wild-learning.net)
27-31 May
as easy as she thought; the stars are far away and the clouds slip through her fingers. Performed in English and some Italian, with balletic grace, magical digital projections and against the backdrop of Debussy’s emotive music, this is a show that will charm and entertain.
Dream dancer Introduce your children to some European culture this half-term with an enchanting performance by Italian group La Baracca in the new show The Cosmic Dancer. It tells the story of Pepita who wants to be a dancer, but more than that she wants to swing from a star and be lifted by the clouds. But that’s not
£13.50 (concessions £10), suitable for ages four to eight, 11am and 2pm. Polka Theatre, 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon, SW19 1SB, 020 8543 4888 (polkatheatre.com)
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Parent Trap: Nappy Valley Net Richmond NappyValleyNet.com has become an online sensation in the four years since founder Susan Hanage, aka. Annabel, launched it, with more than 130,000 visits to the site every month. An invaluable tool for parents based in south-west London who are seeking to swap tips and share advice, we’ve teamed up to post some of the most pressing topics posted on the site.
Anger towards cyclists Just this morning I was taking my daughters to school on my bike, and I had a driver following me less than three feet from my back wheel, trying to squeeze past. My daughters want to cycle to school on their own bikes, but the roads – and the driving on them – are hideously unsuitable for it. Have you experienced anything similar? Top replies: Tue Mar 24, 2015 11.56am
Tue Mar 24, 2015 12.19pm To offer a slightly different angle, I run to work once a week and the number of cyclists who jump the lights is astonishing. I know they’re trying to stay away from the cars, but in the process they practically run over pedestrians and runners who are crossing at the green man (and yes, I realise that many pedestrians don’t wait to cross, but that’s another problem). Tue Mar 24, 2015 12.24pm I agree; two wrongs don’t make a right. I think many cyclists are extremely badly behaved; the main difference is that it’s harder (not impossible, but harder) to hurt or kill someone while riding a bicycle than driving a car, so they get away with it. Tue Mar 24, 2015 12.29pm It’s quite unhelpful to say ‘let’s just ban cars’. My opinion is that there has been no future planning in London when it comes to road usage. Take the South and North Circular roads, for example: what
a mess. Some of the cycle lanes are on the pavement, some are on the road – in some areas they are non-existent.
wake up to our surroundings before we get hurt or hurt someone else. Wed Mar 25, 2015 2.37pm
There are a lot of cars and cyclists in London; all road users should have a safe way to get from A to B. Transport for London and other authorities in charge should look at what other cities around the world are doing and learn from them. Car drivers should be in less of a rush and less entitled. Cyclists and motorbike riders should be more careful and shouldn’t feel as though they are above the law. Pedestrians should always have the right of way as they are the most vulnerable. Tue Mar 24, 2015 12.39pm The volume of all traffic users is rising and the space through traffic management is decreasing. Two things happened to me today as I was cycling (and these are fairly regular occurrences). Firstly, a pedestrian on a mobile phone stepped right out in front of me, completely unaware of anything going on around him. Thankfully, I have good brakes. Secondly, I passed a van that had stopped in the middle of the road. As I passed him, he pulled out, pushing me into a parked car. I experience these situations on a regular basis. Is this because I’m speeding or breaking the law in any way? No. Is there an agenda against me and other cyclists? No. Is there a general lack of awareness by all road users, including pedestrians and cyclists? Yes. It’s time for all of us to
Talking about banning cars is the funniest thing I’ve ever heard. Firstly, the government won’t, as it makes too much money from drivers. Newsflash: it makes no money from cyclists because they don’t pay road tax! If people gave up their cars, what would be the alternative? Public transport? It’s already packed! So many services are cancelled on South West Trains these days that when a train finally does come along it’s a battle to get on. It’s not practical to say everyone should cycle. I’m not sure what the solution is; maybe everyone (cyclists, pedestrians and motorists) should be made to go on a road-safety awareness course? Wed Mar 25, 2015 6.23pm Although cyclists have less chance of killing someone, they are in greater danger of being killed, not only through their own behaviour, but also through other people’s stupidity. Unfortunately, this idiocy is not confined to one of the motoring, cycling or pedestrian communities. It’s easy to point fingers; in an imaginary utopia, the onus is on everybody’s collaborative understanding. This is a serious subject. It could be helpful to look at the possible causes of road rage – higher levels of stress (especially city life), less support, little outlet, longer working hours? Maybe we are just under too much strain to show consideration for others?
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 in line with the Residents’ Journal house style
I cycled to work this morning and a man in a white van screamed abuse at me because I was cycling a safe distance away from the parked cars. The irony was that 15 seconds later I overtook him as he was stuck in traffic, so he gained precisely zero seconds. Last week, a cyclist was injured when a car door suddenly opened onto him; it fractured his wrist. The sooner we ban cars from the roads, the better!
Residents’ Journal
society matters The Putney Society breaks down its current concerns, causes and upcoming celebrations
G
athering around dining room tables and in meeting rooms across SW15, The Putney Society works to promote the local character and amenities for residents. The Society, which was founded in 1959 after a local resident campaigned to save an elm tree in his street, has been at the forefront of many of Putney’s upgrades, restorations and campaigns ever since. The structure of the Society has changed very little since the idea was born in the Fox & Hounds pub in November of that year, or since the inaugural meeting of 45 members in January 1960; the three original panels (Buildings, Transport and Open Spaces) still operate in almost the same way today (allowing for technology upgrades) and the Community panel, which began just a few years later in 1971, also remains a society staple. As and when the needs arise, ad-hoc groups (for example, dealing with pollution on Putney High Street or The Society is looking the campaign against the for volunteers to help the expansion at Heathrow treasurer, membership officer Airport) are convened to allow and bulletin editor. the Society and its members to Contact chair@putneysociety.org.uk represent the local community if you would like to be part of to the best of its abilities. this active local group.
Get involved
Nature focus As part of its Open Spaces panel, the Society is always concerned with the environment. To that end, it uses its established tree fund for tree-planting efforts across SW15, particularly on the Commons, as part of its commitment to preserving the green feel of the area and replacing any trees demolished during construction projects. That said, the Society has been successful in convincing developers to retain mature trees in many of the recent local projects.
The Heathrow debate Heathrow Airport’s desire to add another runway to its current site will not be news to residents of south-west London, nor will the campaign against the expansion, the Heathrow Association for the Control of Aircraft Noise [HACAN]. The Putney Society stands as a firm voice against the new development, joining with members of Wandsworth Council and local MP Justine Greening in meetings packed to the rafters where locals could hear about and discuss plans to oppose the expansion. Debate is still raging on the subject.
Putney High Street The Society takes a keen interest in the health and wellbeing of the local community and is therefore, with the council, closely monitoring the air pollution
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Residents’ Journal
on Putney High Street. Reported as one of the most polluted roads in the capital, recent research has suggested that around 62 deaths per year in Putney and Roehampton can be linked directly to the poor air quality in the area. The Society put forward a number of recommendations to the Environmental Audit Committee (EAC) which published a report on the problem in late 2014, and was delighted when some of these matched those submitted by the EAC to the government. The Society feels that stronger measures are needed, but understands that, as one of the major thoroughfares out of London, reducing traffic volume and increasing pedestrian access (one of the major recommendations) will be a difficult process.
The Society is not opposed to construction in the area as long as it is in keeping with the surrounding architecture Planning Although the Society is not opposed to construction in the area as long as it is in keeping with the surrounding architecture, it feels that some of the plans recently submitted to demolish and redevelop certain sites along the high street and Upper Richmond Road are several storeys higher than recommended in the Local Development plan. In addition, it is concerned about the amount of office space being replaced with residential apartments which will adversely affect local retailers by removing an important source of daytime shoppers.
Community solutions
upcoming events 14 May
Visit to the Guards Museum and Guards Chapel
© Bryan Busovicki / Shutterstock.com
An exclusive chance to get a behind-the-scenes tour of the secure repository for artefacts belonging to Her Majesty’s Foot Guards. The tour will cover history from the end of the English Civil War up to the NATO-led Afghanistan campaign. It’s also a chance to visit the only remaining Military Chapel in London.
Deadline for booking 7 May, £12, meet at 1.30pm, coffee and tea on arrival. Birdcage Walk, SW1 6HQ
28 May
William Morris Members’ Meeting William Morris print
One of the latest ventures the Society is keen to express is its concern over the safety and practicality of the pedestrian crossing at the Putney Bridge end of the high street. Following research, the Society discovered that, under the bridge, there are disused vaults which if knocked through could, at relatively little cost and construction time, offer subway connections for pedestrians – an altogether safer crossing option which would also reduce the amount of traffic build-up on the high street and thus assist in the reduction of air pollution in the area. Although the proposals must wait until the Thames Tideway Tunnel construction in the area has been completed, the Society is pleased that the council, when re-leasing the vaults to the local businesses above, has stipulated that should such a project be undertaken in the future, the vaults would be made available. n
The Putney Society is always seeking new members. If you’re interested in becoming a part of the work it does in the community, contact membership@putneysociety.org.uk (putneysociety.org.uk)
The May members’ meeting falls at the same time of the Wandsworth Heritage Festival, which runs from 23 May to 7 June. As part of the celebration, a speaker from the William Morris Society will give a talk on William Morris and the Arts & Crafts Movement.
£3 charge for non-members, 7pm, All Saint’s Church, Putney Common, SW15 1HL For more information about how to book a place at either of these events, contact the Society regarding membership.
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Residents’ Journal
Planning & Development Keeping you in the know about important street plans affecting south-west London
Sandycombe Lodge, engraving by W.B. Cooke after William Havell’s drawing of 1814, courtesy of Turner’s House Trust
© Rocco Homes
See p18 for more about Sandycombe Lodge
Planning approved After a long and difficult battle, plans to restore Sandycombe Lodge in Twickenham (which was designed by the great painter and national treasure J.M.W. Turner) have been approved unanimously by the Richmond upon Thames planning committee. Turner’s House Trust, the society that owns the building, will now be able to progress with its plans to restore and conserve this special Grade II-listed property. ‘We’re absolutely delighted that we’re now able to move forward to sensitively restore this beautiful building back to
Turner ’s House Trust
life and return it, as closely as possible, to Turner’s original design,’ said Catherine Parry-Wingfield, chair of the Trust. ‘We’re now in a position to undertake further specialist surveys, with the aim to commence restoration work in early 2016.’
(turnerintwickenham.org.uk)
Library project Plans are afoot for a six-storey redevelopment of the Donald Hope Library in Colliers Wood. The proposal, submitted by developer Rocco Homes, could house 60 apartments, as well as a brand-new three-storey library on the lower floors. Concerns over the height of the building and its impact on the high street have been raised by local residents, but as the Journal goes to print, Merton Council’s planning committee has yet to discuss the application. Watch this space.
105-109 High Street, Colliers Wood, SW19 2HR (roccohomes.co.uk)
Pedal power The Mayor of London, famed champion of the city’s bicycle brigade, has funded an improvement of cycling facilities along the A316. Last year, the Borough of Richmond upon Thames missed out on the top prize for TfL’s Mini Holland scheme, but Andrew Gilligan (Boris Johnson’s cycling advisor) was so impressed by the bid that he agreed to invest £10million in the borough’s cycling infrastructure. Cllr Stephen Speak, Richmond Council cabinet member for highways, said: ‘This is long-awaited good news. The A316 improvements should be a real help for local cyclists using a major borough artery.’
(richmond.gov.uk)
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Residents’ Journal
The suck zone
Planning applications
Keeping the borough’s streets free from litter has long been a priority for Merton Council. Recently, the Love Your Street campaign was given a boost by the introduction of brand-new ‘Glutton’ vacuum machines. Designed to suck up all kinds of waste and litter, the machines will enable teams to clean town centres more rapidly, covering larger areas in shorter time scales. Each of the five new machines is environmentally-friendly and will vacuum up any waste that will fit through its 12.5cm tube, including paper, cardboard, cigarette packets and butts, cans and glass, plastic and metal bottles, dog mess, dead leaves, waste trapped in tree grilles, wood, steel and more. They will also help to clean areas that are difficult to sweep manually. ‘These new machines are great and a fantastic example of Merton’s businesslike approach to running our services,’ commented Merton Council’s cabinet
Date RECEIVED: 20 March Address: Cross Deep Gardens, TW1 Proposal: Hip to gable and rear dormer roof extensions with roof lights to front elevation Date RECEIVED: 20 March Address: Woodlawn Crescent, TW2 Proposal: Single-storey side extension for disabled bathroom
Councillor Judy Saunders with one of the new Glutton machines in Mitcham town centre
member for environmental cleanliness and parking Cllr Judy Saunders. ‘Not only will they help to keep our town centres clean but they should also help us to be more efficient, delivering better value for our residents.’
(merton.gov.uk)
Members of the Council with the new kiosk, courtesy of Richmond Council
Self-help saver
Last month, an innovative new self-help kiosk, sponsored by the Big Lottery Fund, was launched at the Civic Centre in Twickenham. The Richmond Citizens Advice Bureau, as part of a programme called Advice Richmond – Together for Change, aims to give residents specialist advice on issues such as debt, housing, employment, social care, welfare benefits and mental health support at the touch of a button. In addition to the kiosk at the Civic Centre, the touchscreens can also be found at the Vineyard Community Centre in Richmond and at the MIND Wellbeing Centre at Richmond Royal Hospital.
Civic Centre, 44 York Street, TW1 3BZ. Information and advice can also be found at advicerichmond.org.uk
Date RECEIVED: 25 March Address: Kingston Lane, TW11 Proposal: Single-storey extension to existing single dwelling house Date RECEIVED: 26 March Address: Archway Mews, SW15 Proposal: Use of property as a three-bedroom house Date RECEIVED: 26 March Address: Disraeli Road, SW15 Proposal: Erection of mansard roof extension to main rear roof including raising the ridge by 300mm Date RECEIVED: 30 March Address: Kingston Road, SW19 Proposal: Alterations to existing shop front for residential use – change of use previously obtained Date RECEIVED: 1 April Address: Mortlake High Street, SW14 Proposal: Change of use of part of the third floor from offices (B1A) to residential (C3) Date RECEIVED: 1 April Address: Mill Road, SW19 PROPOSAL: Erection of a single-storey detached garage with a pitched roof in rear garden, with a workshop in the roof space
Planned roadworks and closures in and around May STREET
planned work
dates
works owner
Adelaide Road, TW11
Gas main replacement
Until 27 May
Southern Gas Networks 0845 026 0015
Chertsey Road, TW1
Carriageway resurfacing; total road closure under traffic regulation orders and diversion
Until 8 May
Transport for London 0845 305 1234
Howsman Road, SW13
Cyclical tree pruning
Until 22 May
Richmond upon Thames 020 8891 1411
Onslow Road, TW10
Repair sewer failure
Until 11 May
Thames Water 0845 920 0800
Percy Road, TW2
Whitton Station improvement works
Until May 2016
Network Rail Infrastructure Ltd 0845 711 4141
Priory Lane, SW15
Carriageway resurfacing
Until 12 May
Wandsworth 020 8871 6000
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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, Morden, 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 020 8891 1411 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 Wimbledon 89 The Broadway SW19 1QE
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
ORTHoDONTISTS
Optician
Wimbledon Orthodontic Practice ‘Registered Specialist Orthodontists practising in the area since 1996’ 18 Tabor Grove Wimbledon, SW19 4EB 020 8944 0180 info@wimbledon-orthodontist.co.uk wimbledon-orthodontist.co.uk
David Clulow Opticians 5 George Street Richmond, TW9 1JY 020 8332 0345 davidclulow.com
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 Seymour House Surgery 154 Sheen Road Richmond TW9 1UU 020 8940 2802 richmondsurgery.co.uk Sheen Lane Health Centre Sheen Lane, East Sheen, SW14 8LP 020 8876 3901 sheenlanehealthcentre.co.uk
Solicitors Dixon Ward 16 The Green, Richmond, 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 DS Eco Cleaning Ltd 7a Alder Road, East Sheen, SW14 8ER 0800 612 1378 dscleaning.co.uk
HANDYMAN Putney Handyman: Property Maintenance and Electrical Engineers John Bailey 07513 054 997 putneyhandyman@gmail.com
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 - 30 -
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 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 8946 5502 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
Orleans House Gallery Riverside, Twickenham TW1 3DJ 020 8831 6000 richmond.gov.uk/orleans_house_ gallery
Museums/Galleries Henry Boxer Gallery (visits by appointment only) 98 Stuart Court Richmond Hill TW10 6RJ 020 8948 1633 outsiderart.co.uk Lacy Road Gallery 30 Lacy Road Putney SW15 1NL 020 8789 1777 lacyroadgallery.co.uk Landmark Art Gallery Landmark Arts Centre Ferry Road, Teddington TW11 9NN 020 8977 7558 landmarkartscentre.org
Richmond Hill Gallery 26 Richmond Hill Richmond, TW10 6QX 020 8940 5152 therichmondhillgallery.com
The Twickenham Museum 25 The Embankment Twickenham, TW1 3DU 020 8408 0070 twickenham-museum.org.uk Will’s Art Warehouse 180 Lower Richmond Road Putney Common, SW15 1LY 020 8246 4840 wills-art.com
Riverside Gallery 36 Barnes High Street SW13 9LP 020 8878 0040 riversidegallery.co.uk
Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club Church Road Wimbledon, SW19 5AE 020 8946 6131 wimbledon.com
Strawberry Hill House (Horace Walpole’s Gothic Castle) 268 Waldegrave Road Twickenham, TW1 4ST 020 8744 1241 strawberryhillhouse.org.uk
Wimbledon Windmill Museum Windmill Road Wimbledon Common SW19 5NR wimbledonwindmill@gmail.com wimbledonwindmill.org.uk
The Architect’s Gallery The Powder Rooms 69-71 Broad Street Teddington, TW11 8QZ 020 8977 7046 thearchitectsgallery.com
Museum of Richmond Old Town Hall, Whittaker Avenue Richmond, TW9 1TP 020 8322 1141 museumofrichmond.com
The Russell Gallery 12 Lower Richmond Road Putney, SW15 1JP 020 8780 5228 russell-gallery.com
entertainment New Wimbledon Theatre The Broadway SW19 1QG 0844 871 7646 atgtickets.com/wimbledon
Polka Theatre 240 The Broadway Wimbledon, SW19 1SB 020 8543 4888 polkatheatre.com
Normansfield Theatre The Langdon Down Centre Normansfield 2A Langdon Park, Teddington, TW11 9PS 0333 121 2300 langdondowncentre.org.uk
Putney Arts Theatre Ravenna Road, SW15 6AW 020 8788 6943 putneyartstheatre.org.uk
Orange Tree Theatre 1 Clarence Street Richmond, TW9 2SA 020 8940 3633 orangetreetheatre.co.uk
Richmond Theatre The Green, TW9 1QJ 0844 871 7651 atgtickets.com/richmond
Step on Stage Academy of Performing Arts 07973 900 196/07814 427 274 steponstageacademy.co.uk Teddington Theatre Club Hampton Hill Playhouse 90 High Street, Hampton Hill TW12 1NZ teddingtontheatreclub.org.uk The Bearcat Comedy Club The Turk’s Head 28 Winchester Road St Margaret’s Twickenham TW1 1LF 020 8607 9190 bearcatcomedy.co.uk - 31 -
The Half Moon 93 Lower Richmond Road SW15 1EU 020 8780 9383 halfmoon.co.uk 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
Residents’ Journal
HEALTH & BEAUTY Beauchamp Beauty 14 Eton Street Richmond TW9 1EE 020 8439 9977 beauchampbeauty.com Beyond Skin 11 York Street Twickenham TW1 3JZ 020 8891 4416 beyond-skin.co.uk Blush Beauty 367 Richmond Road East Twickenham TW1 2EJ 020 8892 2820 blushrichmondbridge.co.uk
B London Boutique 16 Barnes High Street SW13 9LW 020 8876 7577 blondonboutique.com
Lulu Blonde Hair & Beauty 20 Ridgway Wimbeldon Village, SW19 4QN 020 8947 2469 lulublonde.com
Emily Victoria Beauty 71 Sheen Lane SW14 8AD 020 8487 9595 emily-victoria.co.uk
Paris Moses Salon 30a Hill Street Richmond, TW9 1TW 0208 940 9646 parismoses.co.uk
Heavenly Green 4 Kew Green TW9 3BH 020 8332 1999 heavenlygreen.co.uk
Sirisha’s Health and Beauty 145 St Margaret’s Road Twickenham, TW1 1RG 020 8891 4380 sirishashealthandbeauty.com
Matches – Richmond 13 Hill Street Richmond TW9 1SX 020 8332 9733 matchesfashion.com
Question Air - Barnes 86 Church Road Barnes, SW13 ODQ 020 8741 0816
The Lensbury Spa ‘Set on 25 acres of landscaped grounds on the banks of the river Thames’ Broom Road, Teddington, TW11 9NU 020 8614 6400 lensbury.com True Beauty Salon & Medispa 59 King Street Parade, Cross Deep, Twickenham TW1 3SG 020 8892 7999 truebeautysalon.co.uk WT Spa 55-56 George Street Richmond, TW9 1HE 020 8439 9936 wtspa.com
Fashion BOUTIQUES Feather & Stitch 16 King Street Richmond TW9 1ND 020 8332 2717 featherandstitch.com Chatterton’s 40 White Hart Lane Barnes SW13 OPZ 020 8487 1004 chattertonshop.co.uk Matches – Wimbledon 36 High Street Wimbledon Village SW19 5BY 020 8947 9777
Question Air - Wimbledon 77 High Street Wimbledon Village, SW19 5EG 020 8946 6288 question-air.com
Nadia Ivanova 76 White Hart Lane Barnes SW13 OPZ 020 8878 0941 nadiaivanova.co.uk
Marco Tripoli 7 White Hart Lane, Barnes, SW13 OPX marcotripoli.com
Ruby Blue & Sheen Uncovered 281- 287 Upper Richmond Road West East Sheen SW14 8QS 020 8876 9845 sheenuncovered.co.uk
Hotels, Travel & sOCIAL HOTELS Artists Villa Bed and Breakfast 57 Cobham Road Kingston upon Thames, KT1 3AE 020 8974 5465 kingstonbandb.com Cannizaro House West Side Common Wimbledon, SW19 4UE 020 8879 1464 cannizarohouse.com
The Lensbury ‘Set on 25 acres of landscaped grounds on the banks of the river Thames’ Broom Road, Teddington, TW11 9NU 020 8614 6400 lensbury.com
The Lodge Hotel 52-54 Upper Richmond Road Putney, SW15 2RN 020 8874 1598 thelodgehotellondon.com Richmond Hill Hotel 144-150 Richmond Hill TW10 6RW 020 8940 2247 richmondhill-hotel.co.uk
- 32 -
Jewellers Kate Hopwood Jewellery 11 Brewers Lane, Richmond TW9 1HH 020 8948 0886 katehopwoodjewellery.com Susan Clarke 11 Paved Court Richmond, TW9 1LZ 020 8948 6057 susanclarkejewellery.co.uk
Travel Agent Simpson Travel Boat Race House, 61-67 Mortlake High Street, SW14 8HL 020 3627 7544 simpsontravel.com
vENUE Warren House Warren Road Kingston Upon Thames, KT2 7HY 020 8547 1777 warrenhouse.com
Food & Drink Restaurants
Butchers
Bakeries
Annie’s 36-38 White Hart Lane Barnes, SW13 0PZ 020 8878 2020 anniesrestaurant.co.uk
AG Miller Ltd 152 Waldegrave Road Teddington, TW11 8NA 020 8977 2753 agmiller.co.uk
La Boulangerie – St Margaret’s 2 Crown Road St Margaret’s, TW1 3EE 020 8892 7990
Cau 33 High St Wimbledon, SW19 5BY 020 8605 9091 caurestaurants.com
Ellis Fine Foods 99 High Street Whitton, TW2 7LD 020 8894 9919 ellisfinefoods.co.uk
Enoteca Turi 28 Putney High Street SW15 1SQ 020 8785 4449 enotecaturi.com
J Seal Butchers 7 Barnes High Street SW13 9LW 020 8876 5118 jsealbutchers.co.uk
Light on the Common 48 High Street Wimbledon Village, SW19 5AX 020 8946 3031 lightwimbledon.co.uk
Robert & Edwards 19 Leopold Road Wimbledon, SW19 7BB 020 8946 5834 robertandedwards.co.uk
Rock and Rose 106-108 Kew Road TW9 2PQ 020 8948 8008 rockandroserestaurant.com Sonny’s Kitchen 94 Church Road, Barnes, SW13 0DQ 020 8748 0393 sonnyskitchen.co.uk The Lawn Bistro 67 High Street Wimbledon Village SW19 5EE 020 8947 8278 thelawnbistro.co.uk Shambles Bar & Restaurant 85 High Street TW11 8HG 020 8977 9398 shamblesbar-restaurant.co.uk TW2 Bar & Grill 80-82 The Green TW2 5AG 020 8898 9298 tw2barandgrill.com
Pubs Bricklayers Arms 32 Waterman Street Putney, SW15 1DD 020 8789 3932 bricklayers-arms.co.uk Rose and Crown 55 High Street Wimbledon Village SW19 5BA 020 8947 4713 roseandcrownwimbledon.co.uk The Clock House 69 High Street Teddington, TW11 8HA 020 8977 3909 theclockhousepub.com The Idle Hour 62 Railway Side Barnes, SW13 0PQ 020 8878 5555 theidlehour.co.uk
Greengrocers Streets Florist and Greengrocer 125 St. Margaret’s Road TW1 1RG 020 8892 1951 streetsflorist.co.uk
La Boulangerie – Richmond 410 Richmond Road Twickenham, TW1 2EB 020 8892 3332 laboulangere.co.uk Millers Bespoke Bakery Units 4 & 5 Saxon 2 Business Centre 57 Windsor Avenue, SW19 2RR 020 7720 1234 millersbakery.co.uk The Cavan Bakery 42 Broad Street Teddington, TW11 8QY 020 8973 3900 thecavanbakery.co.uk
Delis Bayley & Sage 60 High Street Wimbledon Village, SW19 5EE 020 8946 9904 bayley-sage.co.uk Cook & Garcia Unit 1, 25 The Quadrant Richmond, TW9 1DJ 020 8948 7777 cookandgarcia.co.uk Fresh Deli and Café 25 Heath Road, Twickenham, TW1 4AW 020 8892 0688 cafe-fresh-twickenham.com The Alberts Deli 2 Worple Way Richmond, TW10 6DF 020 8617 3029 thealbertsdeli.com
Confectioners Sandrine Chocolates 239 Upper Richmond Road West East Sheen, SW14 8QS 020 8878 8168 sandrine.co.uk
- 33 -
The Cake Parlour 146 Arthur Road Wimbledon Park SW19 8AQ 020 8947 4424 thecakeparlour.com William Curley 10 Paved Court Richmond, TW9 1LZ 020 8332 3002 williamcurley.co.uk
Cafés Artisan 203 Upper Richmond Road Putney, SW15 6SG 020 8617 3477 artisancoffee.co.uk Babycakes 364 Upper Richmond Road West East Sheen, SW14 7JU 020 8392 2074 my-babycakes.com Il Vero Gusto 376 Richmond Road Richmond TW1 2DX 020 8892 2007 ilverogusto.com Petersham Nurseries Café Church Lane, Petersham Road, Richmond, TW10 7AB 020 8940 5230 petershamnurseries.com The Fallow Deer 130 High Street Teddington, TW11 8JB thefallowdeer.com
Residents’ Journal
Your local agents A selection of the area’s top estate agents
Carter Jonas 44 White Hart Lane SW13 0PZ 020 8878 1115 (carterjonas.co.uk)
Douglas & Gordon Putney 127 Lower Richmond Road SW15 1EZ 020 8785 6666 douglasandgordon.com
Hamptons Barnes 67 Barnes High Street SW13 9LD 020 8658 7344 (sales) 020 8970 7895 (lettings) East Sheen 252 Upper Richmond Road West SW14 8AG 020 8454 7247 (sales) 020 8936 3028 (lettings) 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 Barnes & Putney 56 Barnes High Street SW13 9LF 020 3371 3130 Esher The Old Post House High Street KT10 9QA 01372 464496
East Sheen 202 Upper Richmond Road SW14 8AN 020 8878 2828
Richmond 40-42 Hill Rise TW10 6UA 020 8614 9100
Richmond 1 The Quadrant TW9 1BP 020 8939 1770 marshandparsons.co.uk
Wimbledon 1 High Street SW19 5DX 020 8971 8111 savills.co.uk
Robert Holmes & Co Wimbledon Willow House 35 High Street SW19 5BY 020 8947 9833 (sales and new homes)
Winkworth Barnes 2 Barnes High Street SW13 9LB 020 8255 0088 (sales) 020 8878 7966 (lettings)
11-13 Church Road SW19 5DW 020 8879 9669 (lettings) robertholmes.co.uk
Wimbledon 37 Church Road SW19 5DQ 020 8946 2930 winkworth.co.uk
Richmond 5 Duke Street TW9 1HP 020 8939 2803 Wimbledon 81 High Street SW19 5EG 020 8946 0026 knightfrank.co.uk
Savills Barnes 52 Barnes High Street SW13 9LN 020 8939 6900 East Sheen 298a Upper Richmond Road West SW14 7JG 020 8018 777
Marsh & Parsons Barnes 73/75 Church Road SW13 9HH 020 8563 8333
Putney 196 Upper Richmond Road SW15 2SH 020 8788 9295
Putney 198 Upper Richmond Road SW15 2SH 020 8780 9900
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Residents’ Journal
PROPERT Y WATCH Life for rent The south-west London lettings market is booming, according to three agents from Marsh & Parsons’ Richmond, Barnes and East Sheen offices
Richmond
Barnes
East Sheen
Douglas Booth
Sophie Levy
Charles McCosh
Lettings manager
Associate director and lettings manager
Lettings manager
Spring has sprung here in Richmond and the shortage of family homes, in addition to the revitalised corporate market, is starting to push prices high. Demand for family-friendly accommodation within the catchment areas of Richmond’s best schools is becoming a source of daily enquiry, while our Corporate and Relocation Services department has us on speed dial for quality one and two-bedroom flats. We’re also registering more young professional couples looking to set down roots in the area. With fast links into London, a vibrant town centre and wonderful open spaces, Richmond continues to gain popularity as it offers more space than other more central areas typically popular with young professionals. So far this year, we’ve let 38 per cent of our properties to tenants registered with our other London offices, highlighting to landlords the effectiveness of the open register operated at Marsh & Parsons and the importance of working with an agent with a large network.
The Barnes lettings market is particularly strong this spring. We’ve registered a high number of families looking to secure accommodation, particularly in the village itself, ahead of the summer holidays and new school year. We’ve also seen Barnes becoming popular with young professionals, many of whom are looking to rent before they eventually buy here. Most are relocating from central London, particularly Chelsea and Fulham, and are moving to Barnes for its village appeal, easy access into the City and possibly even to start a family. This has led to an increased demand for one-bedroom properties, which we’re consequently achieving record prices for. I’ve also noticed an increase in the number of people looking to renovate their own homes and rent whilst they do the improvements. My advice to landlords is to make the most of an active market now, rather than waiting until the summer when the holidays tend to lure tenants away from their property search.
We’re taking on some beautiful family houses in East Sheen this spring, most notably those found on the much sought after Parkside. With its exceptional schools and abundance of green space, East Sheen is the perfect family getaway from the hustle and bustle of London living and the demand from tenants to live here is higher than ever. As a result, we are delivering some excellent prices to some very happy clients and have even just achieved a record price for an immaculate house on York Avenue. The family originally registered with our Barnes office but after being shown this house, they fell in love with area – a perfect example of how our offices work together. If you’re a landlord thinking of putting your property on the market, particularly at the higher end, I’d advise you to do so at least two months prior to when you want the tenants to move in. This allows a good amount of exposure and minimises a void period.
HOT PROPERTIES
Richmond
Barnes
East Sheen
1 The Quadrant, TW9 1BP, 020 8939 1770
73/75 Church Road, SW13 9HH, 020 8563 8333
202 Upper Richmond Road West, SW14 8AN, 020 8878 2828 (marshandparsons.co.uk)
Kings Road, TW10 Guide price: £7,748 per month
Church Road, SW13 Guide price: £6,250 per month
- 35 -
Palewell Park, SW14 Guide price: £4,500 per month
Suffolk Road, Barnes SW13 Ground floor flat with fantastic private garden and off street parking Located in the heart of Barnes village, this double fronted ground floor flat is presented in very good condition and features well appointed accommodation. 2 bedrooms (both en suite), reception room, kitchen/dining room, guest cloakroom, studio, 70 ft garden, private off street parking. EPC: C. Approximately 125 sq m (1,345 sq ft). Freehold
Guide price: £1,300,000 KnightFrank.co.uk/BNS150041
KnightFrank.co.uk/barnes barnes@knightfrank.com 020 8022 6273
@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk
SWRJ - MAY
23/04/2015 16:27:06
SW
06
Riverview Gardens, Barnes SW13 Stunning two bedroom apartment overlooking the river A stylish apartment with direct river views, situated in a beautiful Edwardian mansion block on desirable Riverview Gardens. 2 bedrooms (both en suite), reception room, kitchen/dining room, 3 balconies, communal riverside garden. EPC: D. Approximately 132 sq m (1,423 sq ft). Leasehold with a share of freehold
Guide price: £1,595,000
KnightFrank.co.uk/barnes barnes@knightfrank.com 020 8022 6273
@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk
KnightFrank.co.uk/BNS150034
SWRJ - MAY
23/04/2015 16:27:06
Kings Road, Richmond TW10 An exceptional detached family house on Richmond Hill This beautifully presented property offers superb entertaining space and a 115ft west facing garden. 5 bedrooms, 3 bath/shower rooms, drawing room, dining room, study, reception room, large kitchen/family room, utility room, pantry, garden with summer house, ample off street parking. EPC: D. Aproximately 410.7 sq m (4,421 sq ft). Freehold
Guide price: £4,500,000
KnightFrank.co.uk/richmond richmond@knightfrank.com 020 8939 2800
@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk
KnightFrank.co.uk/RCH110002
SW Resident's Journal - May 2015 - 11 Kings road 7
23/04/2015 17:34:01
SW
01
Broom Water West, Teddington TW11 An amazing new house with direct river access A rare opportunity to purchase a family house with superb lateral accommodation. Reception hall, 5-6 bedrooms, 5 bath/shower rooms, 3 reception rooms, large kitchen/dining room, utility room, cloakroom, basement, beautiful gardens leading to the private creek, mooring, boat house, garage, off street parking. Approximately 448 sq m (4,818 sq ft).
KnightFrank.co.uk/richmond richmond@knightfrank.com 020 8939 2800
Freehold
Guide price: £3,750,000
@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk
KnightFrank.co.uk/RCH150024
SW Resident's Journal - May 2015 - 20 Broom Water West PH
24/04/2015 09:33:48
WHAT'S YOUR NEXT MOVE? To find out how we can help you or to arrange your no obligation market appraisal please contact us: KnightFrank.co.uk/wimbledon wimbledon@knightfrank.com 020 8946 0026
Guide price: £6,600,000
Marryat Road, Wimbledon Village SW19 A house of great volume and light which has been refurbished. Master bedroom suite, 6 further bedrooms (1 en suite), 2 family bathrooms, drawing room, family room, study, kitchen/breakfast room, utility, cloakroom, swimming pool, parking. EPC: D. Approximately 624.2 sq m (6,719 sq ft). wimbledon@knightfrank.com Office: 020 8946 0026
@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk
Guide price: £6,500,000
Highbury Road, Wimbledon Village, SW19 A fine Edwardian house in one of Wimbledon Village's premier roads. Master bedroom suite, 6 further bedrooms, 2 family bathrooms, kitchen/breakfast room, reception, family room, games room, 2 shower rooms, WC, garage, garden. EPC: D. Approximately 512.5 sq m (5,516 sq ft) wimbledon@knightfrank.com Office: 020 8946 0026
Resiednts Journal April high
23/04/2015 17:02:07
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Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk
East Twickenham A truly stunning three bedroom apartment forming the entire raised ground floor of this magnificent gothic Victorian building with its own private entrance. The apartment has been refurbished to exacting standards including the installation of chevron oak parquet flooring. The grand reception room has large bay windows overlooking the rear communal gardens with direct access to a private terrace and the communal garden. EPC: D
£1,650,000 Share of Freehold • • • • • •
Hamptons Richmond Office Sales. 020 8454 7621 | Lettings. 020 8454 7261
3 Bedrooms 1 Reception Room 3 Bathrooms Direct access to a private terrace Balcony Communal Garden
Wimbledon A substantial and elegant detached period property located in one of Wimbledon Village’s most prestigious residential roads. The attractive tile hung property occupies an excellent and exclusive position just off Wimbledon Parkside, close to the Common. The house is well presented and provides well balanced family accommodation, a delightful walled garden and a detached garage. EPC: D
£6,250,000 Freehold • • • • • •
Hamptons Wimbledon Office Sales. 020 8454 7627 | Lettings. 020 8454 7265
Prestigious village location Close to Common Detached Family Home 6/7 Bedrooms Detached Garage Walled Garden
Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk
Bristol Gardens A magnificent gated seven bedroom detached house located on one of the premier roads in the heart of Putney Heath. The house has a garage, off-street parking for a number of cars and a 97ft rear garden. EPC: D
£3,795,000 Freehold • • • • • •
Hamptons Putney Office Sales. 020 8454 7612 | Lettings. 020 8454 7259
Detached Seven bedrooms Four bathrooms Four reception rooms 97ft rear garden Private parking
Elm Bank Gardens A rarely available, six bedroom double fronted end of terrace Victorian family residence offering elegant living space with side and rear landscaped gardens. EPC: D
£2,600,000 Freehold • • • • • •
Hamptons Barnes Office Sales. 020 3285 7734 | Lettings. 020 8454 7259
Prime location Open plan living and dining room Extended kitchen Five bedrooms Three bathrooms, South West facing patio garden
Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk
East Sheen A delightful four bedroom semi-detached period house, with off-street parking and a 45ft South facing garden, located moments from all the bars, restaurants and shops that Upper Richmond Road West has to offer. This fantastic house offers plenty of potential to extend to the ground floor and into the loft STPP. EPC: F
£1,365,000 Freehold • • • • • •
Hamptons East Sheen Office Sales. 020 8454 7625 | Lettings. 020 3601 1912
Two reception rooms Kitchen/breakfast room Four bedrooms Two bathrooms Rear garden Off-street parking
Hampton Built circa 1890, this wonderful Victorian family home features six bedrooms, including an en-suite bathroom and dressing room to the master bedroom and two further ensuites, five separate reception rooms, a luxury appointed ‘Mark Wilkinson’ kitchen/ breakfast and beautifully landscaped gardens.
£2,450,000 Freehold • • • • •
Hamptons Teddington Office Sales. 020 8945 5026 | Lettings. 020 8970 7906
Six bedrooms Five reception rooms Four bathrooms Garden Private parking
boileaus.com Now part of the Carter Jonas network
Bracken Gardens Barnes SW13
An ideally located semi-detached family house in the heart of Barnes Village benefitting from off-street parking. Double reception room • 4 bedrooms 2 bathrooms • Kitchen • Conservatory Off-street parking • EPC rating E
Guide price £1,895,000
Barnes
020 8741 7400 amelia.herbert@carterjonas.co.uk
Belgrave road Barnes SW13
Located in a quiet cul de sac overlooking the Harrodian School playing fields this superb house is close to both the river and Barnes Village. Reception room • 5 bedrooms En suite bathrooms • Kitchen/family room Summerhouse • EPC rating D
£1,961 pw*/£8,500 pcm*
*Rent excludes administration fees. Please contact our branch who can provide this information.
Barnes
020 8878 1115 charlotte.godley@carterjonas.co.uk
Roskell Road SW15 £1,495,000 Freehold West Putney Sales 020 8785 6666 | wputneysales@dng.co.uk
Winthorpe Road SW15 £1,395,000 Freehold East Putney Sales 020 8788 3000 | putneysales@dng.co.uk North
Chelsea
Fulham
This beautifully presented family house (1895 sq.ft.) is located on the peaceful Roskell Road. The house boasts wooden floors, high ceilings and lovely cornicing throughout.
4 double bedrooms, Bathroom, Shower room, Double reception room, Kitchen/ dining room, Cloakroom, Cellar, Garden, EPC: E.
Covering 1,650 sq.ft, this light and spacious family home is situated in the heart of central Putney. The property is within the catchment area of the popular Brandlehow Primary School.
4 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en suite), Double reception room, Kitchen/dining room, West-facing garden, Balcony, EPC: C.
Hammersmith & Shepherd’s Bush
Kensington
Kensington Gate
South Kensington
Notting Hill
Pimlico & Westminster
douglasandgordon.com
Egliston Road SW15 ÂŁ923 per week Fees apply Unfurnished East Putney Lettings 020 8788 3333 | putneylets@dng.co.uk
Quill Lane SW15 ÂŁ484 per week Fees apply Furnished
A semi-detached family home located on this quiet private road in the heart of West Putney. The house benefits from a fantastic secluded south-facing garden, off-street parking and an integral garage.
3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en suite), Double reception room, Dining room, Kitchen, Conservatory, Garage, South-facing garden, EPC: D.
This charming split level two bedroom flat is located on this pedestrianized residential lane and ideally placed for the facilities of Putney High Street.
2 bedrooms, Bathroom, Reception room, Kitchen, South-facing garden, EPC: D.
East Putney Lettings 020 8788 3333 | putneylets@dng.co.uk South
Balham
Battersea
Battersea Park
Clapham
East Putney
Southfields & Earlsfield
West Putney
Wimbledon
£7,325,000
An exceptional newly-built six bedroom house offering the perfect balance of family accommodation, leisure and entertaining space, situated moments from the world famous All England Lawn Tennis Club, and close to the Village and the Common 3 reception rooms • kitchen/dining room/sitting room • master bedroom suite with roof terrace • 5 further bedrooms • 6 bath/showers • gym • steam room • wine cellar • cinema • landscaped gardens • gated drive • garage & osp
Wimbledon Village
£6,250,000
An elegant and well-presented detached family house in a desirable Village location close to the wide open spaces of Wimbledon Common and the High Street with its array of boutiques, shops and restaurants 2 reception rooms • family room • kitchen/breakfast room • cellar rooms • 5 bedrooms • study/bedroom 6 • 3 bath/ shower rooms (2 en-suite) • dressing room • lovely garden • garage and carport • ER/D
Wimbledon Village’s PremierVillage Estate Agent - Sales: +44 (0) 20 8947 9833 Wimbledon Wimbledon Village 020 8947 020 8947 98339833
www.robertholmes.co.uk www.robertholmes.co.uk www.robertholmes.co.uk
Wimbledon Village
POA
Coombe Hill
£6,500,000
A brand new, luxuriously appointed detached residence in a quiet Village cul-de-sac location
An outstanding house situated between Wimbledon Village and Kingston with staff annexe over garage
3 receptions • kitchen/breakfast room • 5 beds • 5 bath/ showers • roof terrace • garage & gardens • ER/C
4/5 receptions • kitchen/dining room • gym • wine store • 7 beds • 5 baths • garden overlooking golf course • ER/C
Wimbledon Village
Wimbledon Village
£3,350,000
£3,400,000
An attractive & beautifully presented period family house in the heart of Wimbledon Village
A smartly appointed contemporary home in a quiet residential road
2 receptions • music room • conservatory • kitchen/dining room • cellar • 4 beds • 2 baths • garden • ER/E
2 receptions • study • kitchen/dining room • 5 bedrooms • 4 bath/shower rooms (3 e/s) • garden • osp • ER/B
Wimbledon
Wimbledon
£3,000,000
£2,450,000
A very attractive house on a generous corner plot close to King’s College School and the Common
A handsome house in an elevated position enjoying far reaching views
4 receptions • kitchen/breakfast room • 6 beds • 4 bath/ showers • lovely mature gardens • gated drive • ER/D
2 receptions • kitchen/breakfast room • 6 beds • 2 baths • south facing garden • garage & osp • ER/F
Wimbledon Village’s Premier Estate Agent - 8947 Lettings: +44 (0) 20 8879 9669 Wimbledon Wimbledon Wimbledon Village Village Village 020 020 8947 020 8947 9833 9833 9833
Trocks Mill SW13 ÂŁ5,850,000 An exceptional six-bedroom detached house, situated in a peaceful setting amongst an exquisite collection of period homes on one of the most desirable roads in Barnes, flanked by Barnes Common. Freehold. EPC=C
Barnes: 020 8563 8333 sales.bar@marshandparsons.co.uk
York Avenue SW14 ÂŁ3,250,000 A beautifully refurbished five-bedroom detached house, finished to the highest of standards and boasting a fabulous south facing garden, cinema room and a garage. Freehold. EPC=D
East Sheen: 020 8878 2828 sales.esh@marshandparsons.co.uk
Melville Road SW13 ÂŁ2,950,000 A stunning Edwardian six-bedroom house in a true Barnes Village location offering spacious family kitchen/living area and a large, beautifully manicured mature garden. Freehold. EPC=D
Barnes: 020 8563 8333 sales.bar@marshandparsons.co.uk
Kings Road TW10 £1,895,000 A spacious six-bedroom semi detached and recently refurbished town house with a large front garden, double garage, situated on one of Richmond’s most sought after roads. Freehold. EPC=C
Richmond: 020 8939 1770 sales.ric@marshandparsons.co.uk
Palewell Park SW14 ÂŁ1,795,000 A beautiful five-bedroom semi detached family house with a huge west facing garden, situated on the Parkside of East Sheen, just moments from the entrance to Richmond Park. Freehold. EPC=E
East Sheen: 020 8878 2828 sales.esh@marshandparsons.co.uk
Residents’ Journal
South West
This Residents’ Journal represents a fresh, innovative approach to local media, while 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
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RUNWILD MEDIA GROUP
Immaculate plot with south-facing patio Matching people and property in London for 150 years.
MAY 2015 • issue 25
Residents’ Journal South West w w w. r e s i d e n t s j o u r n a l . c o . u k t: 0 2 0 7 9 8 7 4 3 2 0
Borough of Richmond | Putney Barnes | Wimbledon | Coombe