Vantage Magazine June13 St John's Wood by Runwild Media Group

43 emotion

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contents

Scene

Style

Collection

8 The Bucket list

33 Wishlist

63 Wishlist

Sir David Attenborough, Bill Bryson OBE and Michael Palin CBE talk travel dreams

Escada’s vibrant Miami-inspired summer campaign

World-class brands come together for the biggest event in the horologist’s year

14 Just Add Water A sneak peek at Heidi Klein’s first own-brand accessories line

Gorgeous holiday bags, Loewe’s Tales of Spain and Prada’s foray into fiction

20 June Diary

36 a shining star

The best of what north west London has to offer this month

22 Drive my Car

Summer suitcase essentials

St John’s Wood goes motor mad

28 Holiday Bound Critically-acclaimed authors give some beach-friendly literary inspiration

34 Style Update

Mawi Keivom’s exotic bling

68 Jewellery News The Goldsmith Pavilion returns to Somerset House and Tiffany & Co. tip their hat to American glamour

Health & Family

44 The List

75 Wishlist Gaucho Hampstead goes beach

47 Best of Beauty

mad at this month’s Doggy Sunday

Complement limited-edition Swarovski lip balm with Dior’s perfect holiday glow

50 Weird Science

78 Tips from the Top Local schools share their summer term tips

From placenta facials to fat freezing, we’ll try anything to break the spell of ageing

82 Travel in Mind

Interiors

Food & Drink

55 Wishlist

87 Wishlist

Safeguarding your valuables never looked so good

For fresh, organic food Camden Lock Fridays have it all

56 Interiors Inspiration

90 jungle fever

Marylebone’s new Conran shop and classic crockery with a contemporary twist

58 Return to Greatness Expect the unexpected at the newly re-opened Great Northern Hotel

Why mental wellbeing demands a break every now and then

Amazon foraging with Alex Atala

Travel 95 Wishlist

Join travel private members’ club Nota Bene Global

96 Travel in Style Turkish delights, Austrian wine and holidaying at the water’s edge

98 The Restorative Power of La Réserve

90 38

Switzerland’s summer potential

102 Hail Columbia Be seduced by historic Cartagena’s colours and customs

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06.03.13 14:47

From the editor

ew will contest that Oscar Wilde knew a thing or two about composing gripping prose. But I have to disagree with his proclamation that “Conversation about the weather is the last refuge of the unimaginative.” We in the UK already know we’re obsessed; winter is one thing (cold, wet, cold) but when it comes to summer, the possibilities are endless. So as the prospect of a few rays threatens to take hold of us all, we salute the season with a dedicated travel issue. Even the greatest voyagers still yearn for the excitement of visiting a new country for the first time. Sarah Tucker talks to three renowned adventurists – Sir David Attenborough, Bill Bryson OBE and Michael Palin CBE – about their top exploration memories and ultimate ‘bucket list’ destinations (p. 8). Part historian, part botanist, Brazilian chef Alex Atala – whose restaurant D.O.M was voted sixth in this year’s World’s 50 Best Restaurants – takes us to the Amazon for an extraordinary foodie forage (p. 90). Leading local authors including Danny Wallace, Louise Doughty and Francesca Segal recommend their top holiday-reads (p. 28); Gavin Haines tests some extreme beauty treatments to get him, erm, beach beautiful (p. 50) and Gemma Knight asks where our age-old love affair with travel comes from, delving into the minds of psychology experts (p. 82). We also make some holiday suggestions of our own (from p. 95). Join me at the bikini-booming headquarters of the jet-setters’ staple Heidi Klein, as the two women behind the brand’s namesake launch their own accessories line (p. 14), while Gabrielle Lane gets a good dose of bling from Mawi Keivom, owner of the nimble hands that create the holiday-perfect Mawi costume jewels (p. 36). If you’re planning a ‘stay-cation’, head to St John’s Wood High Street on 23 June for the Street Classic and Supercar Event; while the big kids relish the motors and the little kids devour the candyfloss, you can enjoy Larizia’s latest pair of Miu Mius (p. 22).

Kari Rosenberg Editor

J U N E 2 0 1 3 i s s ue 3 5

Editor Kari Rosenberg

Editorial Director Kate Harrison

Assistant Editor Gabrielle Lane

Brand Consistency Hiren Chandarana Laddawan Juhong

Collection Editor Annabel Harrison

General Manager Fiona Fenwick

Contributing Editor Richard Brown

Client Relationship Director Felicity Morgan-Harvey

Feature Writers Gemma Knight Olivia Sharpe

Head of Finance Elton Hopkins

Senior Designer Grace Linn

Managing Director Eren Ellwood

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Sir David in the Oxford Museum Photography by Jonathan Ford

The

Bucket List

It’s always later than you think. Sarah Tucker talks to three renowned adventurists – Sir David Attenborough, Bill Bryson OBE and Michael Palin CBE – about their best travel memories and ultimate ‘bucket list’ destinations 8

scene

As the world was due to end twice last year on 12.12.12 and 21.12.12 – my son preferring the latter scenario, as it was the day after his birthday – I found myself reflecting upon the most inspiring places I’ve visited during my time on Earth (not to mention those that I have visited in my dreams). The result? A highly subjective list of the places to see before one dies. Some of these are for sharing, others best visited by oneself. They tend to be journeys rather than destinations, as I’m not exactly one for sitting still. And it’s probably true to say that their resonance owed much to the circumstances in which I went. Timing is everything. Impact also varies according to your travel companions. When I ask my 14-year-old son to choose his most enjoyable holidays, he invariably mentions his short breaks with one of his parents in France. Sometimes it is the simplest and shortest journeys that yield one’s ‘rosebud’ moment. But it’s better to regret having done something than to regret having failed to do so at all, especially when it comes to travel. Many talk with passion about the exotic places they would like to visit, complete with all the minute details of why, for how long and with whom. They buy books, surf the net and absorb programmes, namely no doubt by broadcaster Sir David Attenborough, watching black rhinos kiss, discovering a new species of pink iguana in the Galapagos or rubbing shoulders with the gorillas in Rwanda. Then there are the pole-to-pole journeys of Michael Palin, with his observations that cut through the travel brochure puff and reach the raw truth behind the melting pots of cliché. Or the whimsical tomes of Bill Bryson, whose visited cities become both accessible and human, taking on distinct personalities of their own. But despite these crusading pilots showing the way, most of us never follow in their footsteps. Determined to avoid this trap of the armchair traveller, I asked these three experts to refine a list of places they would still like to see or return to before they, as the term defines, ‘kick the bucket’. Where would their one last journey take them?

Sir David Attenborough Britain’s best-known natural history film-maker, his career as a naturalist and broadcaster has spanned nearly six decades and there are very few places on the globe that he has not visited. Formerly controller of the BBC, he joined as a trainee producer in 1952, after leaving Cambridge and the Royal Navy, working briefly for Hodder & Stoughton. It was while working on the Zoo Quest series (1954-64) that he had his first opportunity to undertake expeditions to remote parts of the globe to capture intimate footage of rare wildlife in its natural habitat. Over the last 35 years he has established himself as the world’s leading natural history programme maker with several landmark BBC series, including Life on Earth (1979), The Living Planet (1984), The Trials of Life (1990), The Private Life of Plants (1995), Life of Birds (1998), Life of Mammals (2002) and Life in the Undergrowth (2005). Sir David is a Trustee of the British Museum and the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew; an Honorary Fellow of Clare College, Cambridge and a Fellow of the Royal Society. He was knighted in 1985.

“

I’m waiting for the BBC to send me to the Gobi Desert. I know very little of Central Asia, the Gobi and Tibet. I’ve never been because it’s so high, and the animals are very few and far between, so you have to work a lot harder to find stuff. The parts of the documentaries that people most like at the moment are always the bits at the end where we show ‘behind the scenes’. They get a real sense of the patience and expertise required to capture the moments and how the magic is created. It’s important to show this, especially for the young who may believe the first time they go on safari that the animals just appear by a water hole when the cameras arrive. Nature isn’t like that. And it makes when you do see something all the more rewarding and magical. If an adventure is too easy it loses some of its magic. My encounter with the mountain gorillas in Rwanda is the scene that stands out in most peoples’ minds. We had to wait patiently for these majestic beasts to appear – tourists are now flown in and out by helicopter to places like Uganda, courtesy of bespoke tour firms, and people can see them without the wait. But they have missed the point. The uncertainty is part of the adventure, and I for one wouldn’t ever want to miss that sense of ‘will-I-won’t-I see them’. I’m visiting China later this year to see some very interesting fossils. Last year I visited the Galapagos, where we discovered a new species of pink Iguana. We were the last film crew to see Lonesome George, the sole surviving giant tortoise, and whose species is now believed to be extinct.

”

scene

Getting soaked by the Angel Falls in Venezuela, trekking in Machu Picchu on the trail of the Incas in Peru Michael Palin CBE Writer, broadcaster and prolific explorer, Michael Palin has been travelling for nearly 25 years. Since the phenomenal success of the BBC documentary series Around the World in Eighty Days (1989), in which he followed the route taken by the fictional Phileas Fogg in Jules Verne’s novel, Palin has enjoyed renewed success with a spate of BBC travel documentaries. All self-penned as well as presented, they include Pole to Pole with Michael Palin (1992), Full Circle with Michael Palin (1997), Michael Palin’s Hemingway Adventure (1999), Sahara with Michael Palin (2002), Himalaya with Michael Palin (2004) and Michael Palin’s New Europe (2007). His insatiable curiosity has sent Palin journeying far and wide, in every direction, on journeys that have defined him as the great British traveller of our age: documenting what he sees, gently interrogating those he meets, expressing concern where appropriate and sharing points of view. He recently received the prestigious Bafta Fellowship award.

“

I travel because I’m curious about the world. People travel for different reasons. They don’t settle anywhere, they don’t want any possessions, or they want to push themselves to physical limits, like adventurist Ranulph Fiennes. So where you want to visit before you die totally depends on what drives you to travel in the first place. I wanted to be an explorer when I was a child, but gradually found the world had been explored and that there was nowhere left, really. Once they climbed Everest in 1953, when I was ten years old, I thought, well, that’s pretty much it now. But the will to travel, explore and have an adventure was very strong in me. I’m always looking for the new journey, the next journey, but I admit I’ve got a great fondness for Latin America. Of course, even ten years wouldn’t be enough to see it all, so I decide what most appeals. Walking barefoot along a beach in Belize; getting soaked by the Angel Falls in Venezuela; trekking in Machu Picchu on the trail of the Incas in Peru, or across the glaciers of Patagonia down south; screaming with excitement in a packed football stadium in Rio; slavering over a steak (that is certainly not horsemeat) in Buenos Aires; for me, the hit-list is long. I might even visit the Falklands before we have to give them back. This continent leaves an indelible impression on the soul. The people are incredibly friendly and welcoming, especially to hypersensitive Yorkshiremen.

”

xxx

scene

from Neither Here Nor There, made a welcome reappearance), Notes From a Big Country, about the USA, and his exploits in and observations on Australia, Down Under, which went on to become the most-borrowed travel book of the Noughties. Bill’s books on the English language, including Mother Tongue and Made in America, garnered wide critical and popular acclaim. Then he turned his attention to science. A Short History of Nearly Everything was widely lauded, became a huge international bestseller and won the Aventis Prize for Science Books as well as the Descartes Science Communication Prize. It was reissued in a lavishly illustrated edition, followed by an illustrated version for younger readers: A Really Short History of Nearly Everything. In 2006, his memoir of growing up in 1950s America, The Life and Times of the Thunderbolt Kid, was released and became an instant hit. Bill’s next subject was the life of William Shakespeare, chronicled to great effect in Shakespeare: The World as a Stage. A self-proclaimed Anglophile, travel writer Bill Bryson’s whimsical look at travel and travellers admits to the love of a place closer to home.

“

Bill Bryson OBE Bill Bryson is the UK’s biggest selling non-fiction author since official records began. In The Lost Continent, his hilarious first travel book, he chronicled a trip in his mother’s Chevy around small-town America. It was followed by Neither Here Nor There, an account of his first trip around Europe. Other travel books include the massive bestseller Notes From a Small Island, which won the 2003 World Book Day National Poll to find the book that best represented modern England, followed by A Walk in the Woods (in which Stephen Katz, his travel companion

The beaches on the Isle of Harris in the Outer Hebrides, Scotland, are some of the most beautiful in the world. The colour of the water even on an overcast day is stunning, as is the purity of the sand. The beaches range from the expanses of Traigh Losgaintir (Luskentyre) and Traigh Sgarastaigh (Scarista) to little sheltered coves beside the road at Na Buirgh (Borve). Behind the beaches are the machairs – green, grassy plains covered in a mass of wild flowers in the summer. Photographs never do justice to the wonderful colours and sheer size of the beach area, so you need to visit. I am always seeking out new places whenever I can. That’s the glory of foreign travel as far as I am concerned. I don’t want to know what people are talking about. I can’t think of anything that excites a greater sense of childlike wonder than to be in a country where you are ignorant of almost everything. Suddenly you are five years old again. You can’t read anything, you have only the most rudimentary sense of how things work, you can’t even reliably cross a street without endangering your life. Your whole existence becomes a series of interesting guesses. Is there anything to beat finding yourself at large in a foreign city on a fair spring evening, loafing along unfamiliar streets in the long shadows of a lazy sunset, pausing to gaze in shop windows or at some church or lovely square or tranquil stretch of quayside, hesitating at street corners to decide whether that cheerful restaurant you will remember fondly for years is likely to lie down this street or that one? I just love it. I could spend my life arriving each evening in a new city. But what I’m most pleased about in my life is that I’ve managed to have a really good one. Being a part of a really happy family, that’s the greatest thing in life – and the most interesting and fulfilling of any journey you could ever take. n

”

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just add

water

Kari Rosenberg gets summer-time ready with Heidi Gosman and Penny Klein, founders of the jet-setters’ suitcase staple, Heidi Klein

t couldn’t be less of a ‘Heidi Klein’ day as I navigate my way to the brand’s bikini-booming headquarters in Berkhamsted. The rain is crashing against my windscreen, obscuring my view of the picturesque village located just outside London. While my Sat Nav assures me I’ve “reached my destination”, there’s not a boater or bandeau in sight. “It’s a fitting address” I chuckle to myself, as I pass a sign for the Bekonscot Model Village, seeing as most of the teeny-weeny swimsuits would be an ideal fit for the imaginary residents of such a pint-sized town. The office, once I finally reach it, is predictably “nautical and understated” buzzwords (as well as “gosh”) for the super yummy-mummies Heidi Gosman and Penny Klein, whose combined names, business sense and love of all things maritime has led to the huge success of the Heidi Klein beachwear label. Neither had a fashion background or any design training. Working together at a consultancy firm, it was a project measuring “airport-spends per square foot and winter sun” that got their brains ticking to the holiday-wardrobe tune. Heidi (the blonde one) and Penny (the brunette) were doing rather well in their prospective fields; so much so that it was a midFebruary trip to the idyllic Maldives that cemented the business idea in the former’s head.

“I just could not find a bikini to take away with me,” says Heidi. “From doing the project, we both knew just how much ‘winter sun’ was on the increase, yet I couldn’t even find a hat or flip-flops. I had to get an ill-fitting swimsuit from the back of Fenwick in the end. And I thought; ‘My gosh, this is such an opportunity’. I was so looking forward to the holiday; it was a big spend for me and I just couldn’t get even one bikini to take away. So we thought, ‘gosh, we should do this ourselves’. We worked on the business plan at weekends and Wednesday evenings, to see that we were a) both very dedicated and b) that there were legs for the project. And then before we knew it, six months later it had become so big that we couldn’t do it as well as our day jobs. So we quit the consultancy and went full time, which was quite scary!” Having opened the first retail store in April 2002 – “more than a decade ago” they whisper in unison – Heidi’s role is design-led as the creative director, while Penny, the less vocal of the two, handles the commercial elements, including wholesale and business strategies. “We work pretty closely in terms of bouncing ideas off each other, but fundamentally you look after that area and I look after the business,” says Penny, looking to Heidi for confirmation. Now, more than ten years on, the brand is steady on its bronzed-legs, having successfully captured an abundance of sun-loving female fans (as well as some male, yet mostly this covers the obliging, Vilebrequinwearing husbands) and is venturing for the first time into the world of own-brand accessories. “It’s a tight range,” says Heidi. “As with all of our collections, it’s driven by what the customer requires. It features anything you could want or need when travelling from home to your point of destination, as well as being flight and beach-friendly. So everything we’re doing in terms of accessories has a strong travel element to it. It could be a hat or a bag or something that’s easy to pack; it will usually have a dual purpose.” Penny adds: “It’s practical but also very stylish; quite understated.” “When buying our accessories for the stores (which also stock Anya Hindmarch and Helen Kaminski, to name but two brands) we were always

xxx

The best piece of fashion advice anyone ever gave us was: â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Do you like it?â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Stick to who you are and what you like

looking at what was missing and what our clients would want. We’ve included elements like waterproof bags for your wet bikinis so you can change at the beach, and a little wallet so you can just take out your credit card during the day but then it doubles up as a small purse when you go to a restaurant in the evening. So everything inside the bag has been thought through as much as the aesthetic; we’re always thinking: ‘What is it that you’re looking for’?” We pass various canvas shoppers and nauticalstriped prototypes around the table, marvelling at how they can expand and contract to adapt from over-head cabins to pool-sides. Every bag has “a good solid bottom” so you can stand them like a box next to you on the beach without it getting sandy. I quiz them on their favourite pieces and they answer for each other. Penny likes “anything navy really. I’m a big hat person for the beach” while Heidi has a bit more sparkle. “I like the little canvas one. It’s got a chain and it’s a little bit dressy. I love the little classics, things that you can roll up in your suitcase.” We discuss the various merits and packingpitfalls of what Heidi calls “apple-picking baskets”. But why have they waited until now to launch the accessories range? As usual, Heidi takes the lead. “When people ask why the brand has been so successful, it’s because we’ve always been driven by customer demand. We found that more and more of our customers wanted the whole holiday look and that now includes accessories. When we do our focus groups, customers say they want to come to us and get everything. They want to get some bikinis

and their look for the beach, but equally they want the hat and the bag too. “Our range is quite different from Anya Hindmarch, say, whose products we also stock. Anya does a lot of leather now, while our range is much more canvas-based and it’s got quite a fun, holiday twist. Anya’s moved a little bit out of that space and has gone more high-end, so she’s kind of stopped doing the more beach-friendly stuff. So we were really struggling to buy what our customers were wanting. So just like with the swimwear, we decided to do it ourselves. “The best piece of fashion advice anyone ever gave us was: ‘Do you like it?’ Stick to who you are and what you like. Why do anything that you inherently don’t like? That’s when you start going off piste.” Appealing to a slightly older, yet supremely glamorous clientele (I tell them my own mum, who falls firmly into this category, won’t buy swimwear anywhere else) they name Elle Macpherson and Helena Christensen as the embodied ‘Heidi Klein’ customer (although neither have anything on my mother, I tell them). So much so that a note written on a photo of a pregnant Macpherson hangs proudly above the coffee table where we sit and chat, both dressed in top-to-toe neutrals; chic, smart and “understated”. “Our core market is not so much about age, but about a woman who’s likely to have a family” says Heidi. “She holidays quite a lot and really looks forward to that time away. Perhaps because our pieces do offer a little bit more support and a good fit, that it appeals to a slightly older generation than the 17-year-old who can always wear the string bikini from Topshop and look fantastic. I think as you move on in life you do want a little bit more support from your swimwear.” Penny adds: “Saying that, there’s an article in Tatler at the moment about Ibiza, and there’s a montage of everyone partying and a lot of the bikinis are Heidi Klein.” There’s no doubt they have a big celebrity following (of the right kind) with Sienna Miller and Kate Moss committed devotees as well some much-photographed “royal members” whose names I promise not to print. Offering separate tops and bottoms, as well as a range of flattering cuts (though realistically, none come in a size bigger than a UK 14) Heidi and Penny are big on fit. “It is a luxury, you know,” says Heidi. “They look really good on; you’ve got a really sexy push-up in the bra that gives you great cleavage, but doesn’t look too

scene

heavily structured, and underneath you’ve got underwiring. You’ve got your boning, and removable straps so you don’t get marks, and then you can buy it in whatever size you need, in whatever shape bottom you want, whether it’s the string bottom or the fold over.” Penny’s beachwear pet-hate is “pulling the bottoms up too high. I think it elongates the leg but it’s not terribly flattering. All of us are conscious of our bottoms, and I think a lot of our clients try and cover it – they think more fabric will help, when actually it just makes the problem worse because when the material is wet it just goes even baggier, like a big tea towel. It’s all about the cut of the line. You see the clients in the store and you say ‘no, no – you don’t have to go so big, it’s just drawing attention to it’. The things that work best on the beach are those that feel comfortable. It needs to feel right as well as look right.” We talk more about the high-summer collection. Inevitably, royal blues and rich aquas feature heavily. “Nautical is very much our bread and butter,” says Penny. “That’s a very typical Heidi Klein look and feel; very understated.” The designs were inspired by the Caribbean and Ibiza, as well as a number of other far-flung destinations which beckon Heidi and Penny for both work and play. Heidi has just come back from Jumby Bay “an absolutely gorgeous, private island off the coast of Antigua,” while Penny adores Mustique and St. Tropez. They travel together a lot on business trips as well as specifically for “trying out their designs”, jetting off with their husbands and young kids. “I’m off next week actually, to the Bahamas,” muses Penny, where she’ll be “trying out” the full collection. “You never stop working because afterwards it’s all: ‘Oh and did it fit properly and how was it in the water?’” Heidi jokes. They both still have a destination wish-list, somewhere to take the kaftans when they’ve seen enough of the South of France. They both want to go to St. Barts and Kenya. They discuss the appeal of heading to Montana but admit it’s not very “Heidi Klein-friendly”. But while they’re not test-driving their Tod’s frames, “a good nanny and a good husband” are essential for a sustainable work-life balance. “And a good business partner,” Heidi adds, a testament that Penny can nod to in agreement. Waving the flag for successful businesswomen, the husbands aren’t involved with the Heidi Klein brand at all. “Women work

differently together,” says Penny. “They recognise the challenges of juggling the whole childcare and family element, and that’s very important in the industry. There’s something about that which is very empowering.” The husbands were also happy to make the move to be based nearer to HQ. With Penny’s parents living just round the corner, she packed her bags with her family in tow, while Heidi did the same, moving from Hampstead where she’d lived most of her life. And although their roots are now firmly in Berkhamsted, that hasn’t stopped them moving with the times, recognising the demand for online shopping, an area in which they’ve unsurprisingly, seen huge growth. Although they won’t be doing away with the stores just yet. But if it all ended tomorrow, what would they do? Heidi would probably follow her mother’s profession and go into interior design, while Penny quite fancies the idea of being a gardener, “working for Heidi, growing carrots on a vegetable patch or owning a pub”; a posh gastro-version, I can only presume. She’s also quite a keen cake baker, but insists the brand won’t be branching out into any of the aforementioned areas just yet. Although if they did there’s no doubt that – “gosh” – every candelabra, cream cake and pint glass would be effortlessly understated. With a nautical twist. n

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HURLINGHAM 8TH/9TH/10TH JUNE 2012

08/04/2013 13:59:46

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LOCAL Update Covering the whole of North West London

SILVER LINING St Pancras station is currently playing host to one of the more bizarre and extraordinary pieces of public art we’ve seen – and we really rather like it. Cloud: Meteoros, a huge cloud created by British-born artist Lucy Orta, is currently suspended above the station’s Grand Terrace, following in the footsteps of several decidedly more grounded works, including the Olympic Rings, Paul Day’s The Lovers and Martin Jennings’s Statue of Betjeman. The cloud is said to represent a bridge between the worlds of reality and imagination, and will be provoking existential thoughts in passing commuters until the end of this year.

Until December 2013

THE POETRY OF EARTH As Keats himself said, “Nothing ever becomes real till it is experienced’ – so what better reason to whisk yourself off to the Keats Festival at Keats’ House this June? Now in its fourth year, the popular, family-friendly festival is set to include a diverse range of activities, including creative writing, art, poetry readings, short story readings, talks, musical workshops, open mic sessions, calligraphy, jewellery-making and guided tours.

24 May – 2 June, Keats House, 10 Keats Grove, NW3

A TWIST OF FÊTE The Marylebone Summer Fayre has been gracing the Howard De Walden Estate for eight years, and this summer’s village-fête-in-the-city is set to be more jam-packed than ever before. Set among the lanes of Marylebone Village, you’ll find food, drink, music, craft stalls, a farmers’ market, tombola and even a music stage. Better still, the Fayre raises money for inner-city children’s charity Kids Company, so you can pick up a good deed or two along with your crafts and nibbles.

BRIGHT IDEAS Thanks to the lovely people at Burgh House, the beautiful work of late artist, writer and muralist Barbara Jones will be coming to Hampstead this June. Jones lived and worked in the area and was hugely influential in the birth of British pop-art Brighter and Lighter: An Exhibition of Paintings and Designs featuring works related to the wartime project Recording Britain available to purchase. But hurry – with the exhibition set to run for just 11 days, we doubt they’ll be around for long.

16 June, Marylebone Village 5 – 16 June, Burgh House, New End Square, NW3

scene Rodney Graham, Paddler, Mouth of the Seymour, 2012-13 Courtesy of Rodney Graham and the Lisson Gallery

Image courtesy of Ruth Ward

SNAP HAPPY

Saltarello is a group of musicians who give educational workshops and ensemble performances all over the country, specialising in medieval, renaissance, baroque and contemporary repertoires. If that sounds like your cup of tea, this talented lot will be performing at National Trust-owned Fenton House this month, promising a carefully selected range of Parisian music in truly elegant surroundings.

This month the Lisson Gallery is home to the artwork of Canadian West Coast conceptualist Rodney Graham. Known for his photographic recreations of historic and ligRodney Graham, Sund ay htbox. Co urtesy of Ro Sun, 1937, 2012, tra dney Grah fictional scenarios, he am and th nsparency in e Lisson Ga llery often alludes to literary and philosophic references and throws in the occasional visual pun. The exhibition has a varied, almost cinematic feel thanks to Graham’s new lightbox works, while the content of his photographs is as playful as ever. This one gets our seal of approval.

21 June, Fenton House, Hampstead Grove, NW3

Until 29 June, Lisson Gallery, 29 Bell Street, NW1

MUSIC TO OUR EARS

KOSHER COMEDY Daniel Cainer’s one-man show Jewish Chronicles has delighted intimate audiences the world over – and considering its subject matter (an entertaining look at Jewish identity through the ages), it seems fitting that he’s now chosen to perform excerpts from it at our very own Jewish Museum. We’re inclined to trust the glowing praise of fans Alan Bennett and Howard Jacobson, so why not schlep on over for a bit of good old-fashioned Yiddish wit?

23 June, Jewish Museum, 129-131 Albert Street, NW1 Pride and Prejudice Photo, Photography by David Jensen

AUSTEN ALFRESCO ‘It is a truth universally acknowledged that a single man in possession of a good fortune must be in want of a wife’ – a wife, and a really good bit of theatre. Well, affairs of the heart aside, he need look no further. The Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre is celebrating the 200th anniversary of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice with a month-long run of her most famous work, and in a setting this pretty and pastoral, we shouldn’t have any trouble suspending our disbelief. Bonnets and barouches, here we come.

20 June - 20 July, Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, Inner Circle, NW1

Drive 22

My Car

special event

Celebrate the St John’s Wood High Street Classic and Supercar event on 23 June, the perfect family day out It’s not unusual to see a bevy of the world’s most covetable cars driving up and down St John’s Wood High Street on any given day. Whether they’re popping into Joseph for some retail therapy, have an appointment at EF MediSpa for the latest treatment, or are heading to Harry Morgan for a salt beef sandwich, the residents and visitors who flock to the area know a thing or two about style. And while Londoners love the village-like, close community atmosphere of nearby Hampstead, Primrose Hill and Marylebone, St John’s Wood has somehow remained a hidden gem. But we’re not expecting it to stay that way for long. On Sunday 23 June you’ll find us milling about the high street as usual, but with a very exciting difference. We’ll be celebrating the St John’s Wood High Street Classic and Supercar event. The high street as we know it will be transformed, making way for a charity day of spectacular super-car viewing, enough to have petrolheads and car-buffs (or anyone with a pair of eyes, quite frankly) positively weak at the knees, with appearances from Fangio’s 1956 Mille Miglia Ferrari and Clark Gable’s fabulous Mercedes 300SL Roadster. The sponsors of the event, Fox Gregory and Knight Frank’s St John’s Wood office, will showcase the cars alongside the luxury and glamour for which St John’s Wood’s High Street is renowned. Sponsors H.R.Owen will be displaying some of its latest Ferraris, Maseratis, RollsRoyces, Bentleys and Aston Martins while Lockton Insurance will be entertaining clients with tasty tipples and canapés. You’ll also spot the Vantage team out in full force as the local media partners of the event. However, no supercar event would be complete without some classic beauties that are so rarely seen on our London streets. One of only 14 Ferrari 365 California Spyders, a Ferrari 250 California SWB Spyder, a 1928 Speed Six Bentley and a Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost as well as Stirling Moss’ winning 250 GT Ferrari are among some of the 30 rare cars that will be seen on the day. Along with these, crowds can also enjoy seeing some pre and post-war classics from Jaguar, Alfa Romeo, Mercedes, Lamborghini and Porsche, and perhaps some more memorable treasures such as the Austin A35 and a classic Mini. But these cars also have a cause. Rays of Sunshine – a charity that grants wishes to seriously ill children in the UK, and which will be celebrating its tenth birthday next year – and The St John’s Hospice will be the two fantastic charities benefiting from the event as well as the money donated from local retailers from sales made on the day. While the street party is free, we’re sure donations will be coming in thick and fast. And even if cars aren’t your thing, fear not, as the usual luxury boutiques and delicious eateries (one of the best selections, we’d say, north of the Congestion Zone) will be open for business, alongside a fun-fair and activities to entertain the youngsters. So while the big kids enjoy the motors, and the little kids enjoy the candyfloss, you can enjoy Larizia’s latest pair of Miu Mius.

NEED TO KNOW Where:

St John’s Wood High Street

When: Sunday 23 June, 11am - 5pm What: A dazzling pageant of more than 30 classic cars and supercars, a fun-fair for youngsters plus the high street’s usual fantastic restaurants and luxury boutiques. Why: Apart from being the perfect family day out, the event will raise awareness and money for the children’s charity Rays of Sunshine as well as St John’s Hospice. STJOHNSWOODNW8.COM

Come

Together With Knight Frank having recently published its 2013 Wealth report, where it states that classic cars top the Investment of Passions Index, outperforming even the effervescent prime London property market, there’s no doubt there’ll be a few prospective buyers among the crowds. Here’s a sneak preview of just some of the cars that you can expect to see:

Ferrari Dino 246GT Ferrari’s ‘Dino’ was named after his son, who tragically died of muscular dystrophy. It was the first of the baby Ferraris, featuring a high-revving four camshaft V6 as opposed to the traditional V12s. More importantly, it was the company’s first series built mid-engined car with Pininfarina’s artistry at its finest, setting the style lines that have followed through all the way to the present 458 Italia. This 2.4-litre version features the rare ‘chairs and flares’ option and is one of just five RHD models delivered to the UK.

1925 Vauxhall 30-98 Velox Open Four Seat Tourer

Roadster completed a two year frame-off restoration by renowned specialists HK Engineering in 2009.

The 30-98 Vauxhall was the fastest road-going car a member of the public could buy from a showroom. This car is chassis number OE 216 and is completely original in all respects and has never had a total restoration. The car was ordered new by the main Vauxhall agent in Sydney, Australia: the car was a special order with coachwork in polished alloy, exactly as you see it today. The car is used by its present (and sixth) owner for touring, rallies and even the school run in central London!

1950 Ferrari 166MM ‘Barchetta’

1967 Ferrari 365 California Spyder The 365 California Spyder was the last of the very special coach-built cars Ferrari produced. Designed and built by Pininfarina, it is incredibly rare with only 14 made, as distinct from the 250 Californias of which there were approximately 150. The 365 California was Ferrari’s longest car and the only series-built convertible with four seats. Finished in 1967 and powered by a single cam 4.4-litre V12 engine this particular car, chassis 9615, was first owned by the son of Trujillo, the ex-dictator of The Dominican Republic, but after several other owners it was purchased in 1987 by its current custodian and was comprehensively restored. Chassis 9615 now resides in North London.

1957 Mercedes 300 SL Roadster When you see that the owner’s logbook of this beautiful Mercedes 300 SL Roadster has the name Clark Gable, the star of Gone with the Wind, you realise that this is a very special car. The supercar of its time, with its direct injection six cylinder three litre engine, it was owned by Gable from 1958 until his death. The SL (standing for Sport Leicht) was delivered to San Francisco by sea freight and is one of only approximately 1,800 Roadsters that were a derivative of the famous Mercedes Gullwing. The

When the 166, a two-litre V12 Touring bodied car was first shown in 1948, its revolutionary design was christened ‘Barchetta’, (literally ‘Little Boat’) by the Italian press and gave the new Ferrari company its first ‘signature look’ as well as a Le Mans and Mille Miglia-winning car. Gianni Agnelli, 29-year-old heir to the massive Fiat empire, personally specced the two-tone colour and detailed finishes of this, number 24 of the 25 Barchettas made. Later raced by four -times Le Mans winner Olivier Gendebien, it was then restored and owned for 46 years by Jacques Swaters, the legendary Belgian importer, and put on display at the New York Museum of Modern Art.

1928 Bentley Speed Six The Speed Six was the most successful of the racing Bentleys, claiming victory at Le Mans in both 1929 and 1930, driven by the charismatic ‘Bentley Boys’. Chassis XV 1430 was completed in October 1928 and was the first of the production Speed Sixes, being used by the Works as a demonstrator and being lent to journalists for contemporary road tests. Re-bodied during its life and now with a Van de Plas Le Mans style four-seater body, it is mechanically identical to the day it left the factory.

Alfa Romeo 1750 GTV This rather special Alfa Romeo Giulia 1750 GTV is one of just two finished in ‘blu Chiaro’. Imported into the UK in 1971 it was comprehensively restored in 1996 by its current owner and has led a cosseted life since. This model is generally considered to be the best of the road-going 105 series as it benefits from the sweetest free-reving 1800cc twin-cam engine, five-speed gear box, independent suspension and four wheel disc

special event

brakes. Designed by Giugiaro / Bertone, this beautiful sports coupe is a classic in drive as well as looks.

1961 Ferrari 250GT SWB (Short Wheelbase Berlinetta) Stirling Moss car This was the Ferrari that Stirling Moss raced more than any other, winning five out of six times, including the 1961 Goodwood Tourist Trophy, the British Empire Trophy and the Nassau Tourist Trophy; he describes it as “the best GT car ever”. Finished in the Scots Blue and White colours of Johnny Walker heir and F1 entrant Rob Walker, chassis 2735 was the only RHD version of the powerful ‘SEFAC Comp ’61 Hot Rods’ that Ferrari developed to race against the Jaguar E Types and Aston Zagatos. With a three-litre V12 developing almost 300bhp and Moss behind the wheel, #2735 was simply the fastest GT car in the world.

1960 Porsche 356 Roadster This Porsche is a 1960 T5B Drauz Roadster, sporting a taller-removable chrome-pillared windscreen and sliding glass side windows. The car was built in July 1960 with a 75bhp 1600cc standard pushrod engine but this has been replaced with a 1964 Carrera four-cam two-litre engine. The 130bhp bevel-driven, twin-spark engine was the ultimate 356 engine designed and the car is very lightweight at 870kg. The Roadster had a two year bare-metal restoration by Sportwagen. This car travels long distances every year to Europe for Porsche’s International 356 International Rally.

1969 E Type Jaguar Convertible With its combination of good looks, high performance and competitive pricing, the ‘E’ Type established the Jaguar marque as an icon of 1960s motoring. More than 70,000 E-Types were sold. This 1969 4.2-litre

convertible is in mint condition having done only approximately 28,000 miles. It was bought by the present owner’s father from a friend in 1977, having only done 16,000 miles and has been lovingly and judiciously looked after ever since; it has never spent one night outside its garage! The upholstery is original although the bodywork has been rebuilt by renowned Jaguar restorers Henry Pearman of Eagle.

Ferrari 1956 290MM 3500 cc V12 Sports Car Chassis 0656 was built for the World Champion, Juan Manuel Fangio for Ferrari’s assault on the 1956 World Sports Car Championship. The car’s first race was the Mille Miglia, a thousand-mile race around Italy. It rained continuously and Fangio, driving without a co-pilot, brought the 290MM home in fourth place and promptly collapsed from physical exhaustion. The car subsequently was raced by no fewer than seven works Ferrari drivers over a two-year period, gaining amongst others a second place at the Nurburgring and first in Buenos Aires in 1957, beating the works Maseratis. The car is completely original and has had four previous owners over a 57-year period.

Maserati Bora 4.7 litre This is one of the first of the 524 Maserati Boras built between 1971 and 1978, being Maserati’s first full-bore mid-engined supercar. Only 44 RHD ones were built. It has a 4.7-litre V8 engine directly behind the passenger compartment delivering 310bhp and reaching over 160mph, although the owner promises he’s never tried! This car had its engine rebuilt at Maserati experts Bill McGrath and was re-sprayed Rosso Corsa a few years ago; otherwise it is original and retains its patina. It has been owned by the present custodian for 14 years. n

MORE INFORMATION Visit the official St John’s Wood High Street website stjohnswoodnw8.com With dealerships across England, H.R. Owen is one of the leading sportscar dealers in the UK, hrowen.co.uk Knight Frank St John’s Wood, 5/7 Wellington Place St John’s Wood, NW8 7PB, 020 7586 2777 Fox Gregory St John’s Wood, 102-104 Allitsen Road, NW8 7AY 020 7586 1500 Lockton is the world’s largest, privately-owned, independent insurance broker, lockton.com Rays of Sunshine children’s charity grants magical wishes every day raysofsunshine.org.uk St John’s Hospice is an independent charity located within the Hospital of St John’s and St Elizabeth in St John’s Wood stjohnshospice.org.uk

Guest list Charlotte Tilbury

Arizona Muse

Daisy Lowe

Michael Kors

Michael Kors and Yasmin Le Bon

Laura Bailey

Rosie Huntington-Whiteley Erin O’Connor

David Gandy

Michael Kors Dinner for the World Food Programme Regent Street 26 April 2013 Vogue editor and Queen’s Park resident Alexandra Shulman assembled quite the guest list for dinner with fashion designer Michael Kors as the Café Royal’s Grill Room. 100 meals were donated to the World Food Programme on behalf of the evening’s attendees including Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Jacquetta Wheeler, Daisy Lowe, Yasmin Le Bon and Erin O’Connor.

68 Regent Street, W1B

Anna Casa Showroom

Anna Casa Showroom Relaunch, Mayfair 30 April 2013 Interior designer and St John’s Wood resident, Anna Dodonova, joined forces with photographer Caroline True to celebrate the re-design of her flagship showroom and the latter’s new image collection titled Flowers. Despite having moved from Primrose Hill to Somerset, Pearl Lowe and Danny Goffey were in town for the launch of Pearl’s new book Pearl Lowe’s Vintage Craft and joined Ivan Massow, Jon Moss and others to enjoy Aubaine canapés and jelly by Bompas and Parr.

Party guests

Caroline True and Ivan Massow Richard Ashworth with his wife Jon Moss and Caroline True

Anna Dodonova and Caroline True

annacasa.net

scene

The shop opens for business

Mary Rose

Zoe & Morgan Opening Party, Primrose Hill 1 May 2013 So rare is it to open a high-end fashion magazine and not find the jewellery of Zoe & Morgan on its pages that it seems surprising the brand has just opened its first store. We’re thrilled that Chalcot Road in NW1 was chosen as the location, seven years after siblings Ruth, Zoe and Morgan Sibbald first created pieces inspired by the precious gemstones of India, around the kitchen table at Ruth’s home in Primrose Hill. The boutique will stock various pieces from the collections including its fine jewellery range and will be open Monday to Sunday from 10am until 6pm.

48 Chalcot Road, NW1 zoeandmorgan.com

John Williams and David Hesketh

Daniel Doherty

Scarlett von Leidenschaft

Sunshine Bertrand and Sophie Ollivier

Natalie Goodman and friend

Anna Lea, Fiona Ghobrial and Hannah Snow

Hannah Snow

Lauren Gurvich and Russell Norman

Sacha Bailey, Jessica Lowndes and Fenton Bailey

Tatler Restaurant Awards 2013, Marylebone

Human Relations Private View, Marylebone

1 May 2013

2 May 2013

The Artesian Bar at The Langham London remains one of our favourite places for a glass of Champagne, so it was fitting that the hotel was chosen to host this year’s culinary appraisal from Tatler. For the magazine’s own eating-and-drinking bash the menu included steak tartare, quail’s egg canapés and vegetable tempura.

Proving that photography talent is in the genes, Fenton and Sacha Bailey did their father David proud at a private viewing of their own work at the Imitate Modern gallery. Guests including Jessica Lowndes and Scot Young were greeted by lingerie-clad models, in keeping with the risqué tone of their portraits.

1 Portland Place, W1B tatler.com

27a Devonshire Street, W1G imitatemodern.com

Jeremy King, Lauren Gurvich and Robin Hutson

Jilly Johnson and Ashley Brodin Images courtesy of Richard Pearson

Mark-Francis Vandelli and Fenton Bailey

Photograph from the exhibition

HOLIDAY BOUND

As we scour the shelves for the best summer books, Gabrielle Lane speaks to Dawn O’Porter about her career as a novelist and asks criticallyacclaimed authors Francesca Segal, Louise Doughty, Andrew Martin and Danny Wallace for their top holiday-reads

his summer, Dawn O’Porter – journalist, documentary presenter and all-round question-asking, soul-searching media personality – has added ‘author’ to her list of credits with the launch of her debut novel Paper Aeroplanes. With compelling honesty and the self-confessed style of “a chat with friends in the pub”, Dawn’s work has previously seen her enrol in cults, attempt to slim down to so-called ‘size zero’ proportions and ponder the fluidity of female sexuality in the name of research. Paper Aeroplanes explores the apparently tamer topic of young girls’ friendships at the age of 15 with characteristic vibrancy. “Women and women’s relationships with each other are my main points of interest,” Dawn explains, when I give her a call to discuss her latest career turn. Two years ago, a publisher of young adult novels offered her an opportunity to fulfil one of her keenest ambitions: “I was originally going to write about two thirty-somethings but this story works just as well. It’s about the effect that women have on each other’s lives, which is something I find so empowering. My mum died when I was seven and I was raised by my auntie, with my sister. They’re strong figures in my life. Then you find your friends and they become pivotal in everything you do.” Although bereavement is a theme of Paper Aeroplanes and Dawn shares similarities with one of the main characters, Renée, the book is less autobiographical and more about the rites of passage that many women can relate to – and laugh at in hindsight. “I’d say to my 15-year-old self, ‘calm down, relax, you don’t have to be liked by everybody. It [also] doesn’t make you weak to say ‘no’. And stop eating so many Wotsits!” she sighs. In recent years, Dawn says she has become the person her friends go to for motherly advice, a scenario

she finds “extraordinary” and “bizarre”. However, it’s clear she’s settled and content having married Hollywood actor (and former Primrose Hill resident) Chris O’Dowd, in 2012. While she is filming at present, various TV series that necessitate months on the road are now firmly off the agenda and Dawn admits she hopes to be able to write full-time. “Although I have TV stuff planned and I love it, the future is about writing books. Before, I enjoyed writing in cafés and bars but I’ve just had a computer area set up in my house. Now I have a space set up at home, it’s amazing!” The sequel to Paper Aeroplanes, a novel called Goose, is already in the works and will be available next year, which means for now, holidays are unlikely. “My ideal holiday would be with my husband – we rarely get to go on holiday,” she admits. “I think I’d choose a city break followed by a really idyllic Goaesque type place, lying in a hammock with eight books downloaded and ready to read, cocktails all day and eating whatever’s been caught from the sea.” But last year’s bestseller Fifty Shades of Grey would not be on her reading list. “I got halfway through the first book and gave up! I didn’t like how people acted like they’d just discovered erotic fiction. I found the characters ridiculous. It’s pantomime – a kinky pantomime. I’m not very shockable.” Instead, along with one book by the bath and another on the bedside table, audio versions are also her thing. “I like to listen to the classics,” she says. “I like to listen to the abridged adaptions, which are five or six hours long with all the main parts and the great characters. I listen when I walk the dog in the morning. It’s just another way of cramming stories in.”

Paper Aeroplanes is published by Hot Key Books £7.99, hotkeybooks.com

scene

Photography by Pollyanna Rose

scene

Francesca Segal

Francesca Segal is a journalist who has written for The Guardian, Vogue and Tatler among others. Her debut novel The Innocents won a 2012 Costa First Novel award, as well as the National Jewish Book Award for Fiction. Francesca lives in Hampstead.

Why do you think we’re a nation of summer-holiday readers? Time is such a luxury, and a summer intage £7.99, V holiday gives us precisely that – the time to do all the things we wish we could do in our real lives, like reading a novel in a single gulp, without interruption. And drinking at lunchtime! What book would you recommend? Call Me By Your Name by Andre Aciman. Reading it, you truly believe you’re in Italy in high summer.

Andrew Martin is a journalist and novelist based in Highgate. His critically praised ‘Jim Stringer’ series began with The Necropolis Railway in 2002. His latest novel The Baghdad Railway Club is out now. What’s your favourite book? One of my favourite novels is in fact about an ordinary south London family going on holiday to Bognor Regis. It’s called The Fortnight in September, by R.C. Sherriff in 1931. It’s beautiful, hypnotic, atmospheric, and more gripping than most thrillers. What’s your perfect holiday-reading scenario? Probably reading on the bench outside the seafront Lord Nelson pub in Southwold, Suffolk, before going to dinner at The Swan Hotel in the town.

£7.99

, Fabe

r and

Faber C

rime

What is your literary guilty pleasure? I don’t think I ever feel guilty about reading – it should always be a pleasure, whether it’s Joseph Conrad or Jilly Cooper. But I do have a weakness for tabloid gossip…

If you were to have a motto for choosing books, what would it be? Don’t buy a book if the author’s name is written in gold.

If you could be anywhere, doing anything, what would be your perfect holiday-reading scenario? I’d be somewhere on the US East Coast – Nantucket, or Cape Cod, with a stack of novels, a bag of saltwater taffy and a notebook.

Danny Wallace is a journalist, script-writer and producer known for comedy books such as Yes Man, Join Me and Awkward Situations for Men. His latest book Charlotte Street is available now. Danny Wallace lives in north London.

Louise Doughty

Author and broadcaster Louise Doughty lives in Kentish Town. She has been Costa shortlisted and Orange Prize longlisted while judging the Booker Prize. Her seventh novel Apple Tree Yard is released in June.

What makes the perfect holiday read? As I write novels I find it quite hard not to be at work when I’m reading them. I start reviewing them in my head – d Faber an r be Fa £12.99, which is not what you want to be doing on holiday – so I generally choose a non-fiction book. I love literary memoirs; Jeanette Winterson, Salman Rushdie, Edna O’Brien, Hilary Mantel and Lorna Sage have all produced terrific memoirs in recent years. What book should everyone read? My vote for the greatest ever classic probably goes to Wuthering Heights. It’s a lot less romantic than many people assume, very much about the gritty reality of obsessive relationships, class, race and money. It’s so much more than a love story. What is your motto for choosing books? Go with your gut feeling about what you feel like reading rather than what is fashionable or impressive. Do something quite old-fashioned; browse. Spend an hour or so in a large high street store or your local independent, picking things up and reading the blurb or the first page then putting them down.

Andrew Martin

Danny Wallace

What’s your ideal holiday-reading scenario? I would be, of course, on a beach, so engrossed in this book that I wouldn’t realise that my feet had gone bright red in the sun. From there, I would move to a taverna, where I would order a local wine while handmaidens iced my feet. I would finish the evening in the bath, where Mykos, the taverna owner, would read the final chapters to me as I wept at the book’s powerful emotional ending. What book do you wish you’d written? The Da Vinci Code. Because I could have spent the rest of the day doing something else. Have you ever pretended to have read something you hadn’t? Yes, The Da Vinci Code. How often do you read books and what genre do you tend to choose? Whenever I can and whatever idea £7.99 , Ebury grabs me, fiction or non-fiction. I love Press it when a book makes me laugh; crying is harder, but when it happens it’s extraordinarily powerful. The moment, I mean – not the crying. How often do you read to your son? At the moment, every night. Two books so far. Although my wife has read him many more. It’s a brilliant thing to do and feels like a privilege. He mainly enjoys books where animals pretend to be doctors. And he’s right to do that, because what a brilliant world that would be. n

HAMPSTEAD HEATH LONDON 13 – 16 JUNE 2013 CONTEMPORARY ART £40 – £4,000

Fair sponsor:

GET CARRIED AWAY WITH ART! AFFORDABLEARTFAIR.CO.UK

Come and join our Summer garden party - Free for all to attend!

The Dovehouse Parade

SUMMER GARDEN PARTY

Thursday 13th June 6pm – 9pm 185 - 209 King’s Road Free mini treatments and hair styling from Gina Conway Salon & Spa. Free taster face and body treatments from EF MEDISPA. Tempting delights from Megan’s Deli, Le Pain Quotidien and Gail’s Artisan Bakery. Free styling at luxury lingerie boutique Petits Bisous. Complimentary Pimms for every guest. A selection of discounts from retailers on the night. Win an exclusive Chelsea Box full of amazing gifts from the local retailers worth over £650! The proceeds will help raise the vital funds needed for The Chelsea Community Hospital Schools. This event is supported by Martins Properties and Kensington & Chelsea Magazine in partnership with the Kensington & Chelsea Foundation. Ofﬁcial media partner

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16/5/13 13:23:31

style

wish list SUMMER OF LOVE The vibrant, ultra-glamorous vibe of Miami inspired the Escada campaign for Spring/ Summer 2013, rich with the vivid hues and elegant shapes synonymous with the south Floridian cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unique, vivacious style. With key ensembles for any summer jaunt, be it to Capri, St. Tropez or Ibiza, our hero pieces include a two-in-one midnight-blue jumpsuit, a green silk jacket and a beautiful one-shoulder dress in a dazzling sunshine-yellow. Infused with an upbeat 80s appeal, photographers Claudia Knoepfel and Stefan Indlekofer showcased Kendra Spearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; allure as the new face of the brand in summery seaside scenes.

escada.com

STYLE Update A STYLISH HISTORY If you’ve not yet visited the Hermès Festival des Métiers, be sure to do so by 27 May. The exhibition demonstrates six generations of French craftsmanship that have given rise to luxury leather goods, exquisite silk scarves, watches and fine jewellery, as well as the dream-worthy Birkin bag. Since its foundation in 1837, the house has been defined by its skilled artistry and a number of its trusted creatives have accompanied the presentation to London to host various live talks and demonstrations about its work. The Saatchi Gallery will also play host to pieces from the Hermès archive, making the journey to Chelsea a veritable fashion pilgrimage.

saatchigallery.co.uk

FASHION FOREWORD 18 June 2013 is the closing date for Prada’s very first literary competition. In keeping with its passion for encouraging creative endeavours, as well as its range of prescription glasses, the brand is inviting talented writers across the world to submit a short story exploring the question: ‘What are the realities that our eyes give back to us? And how are these realities filtered through lenses?’ Winners will receive €5,000 and the distribution of their entry online and through Prada boutiques. Italian publisher Feltrinelli Editore is jointly backing the project.

prada.com/journal

style

FROM SPAIN WITH LOEWE Juxtapose colourful butterfly prints against black piping and flurries of silk against sturdy bag hardware and you have the feisty-meets-flirty aesthetic of Loewe’s Tales of Spain. At a time when monochrome is fashion’s austere palette, creative director Stuart Vevers sought a bright and optimistic look for a new collection of bags, shawls, jewellery and sweatshirts. Pieces range from £125 to £895 and will be unveiled at Selfridges on 22 May.

400 Oxford Street, W1

NAME IN LIGHTS Paulie in Marylebone has a delightful habit of yielding chic new labels. Amidst its summer drop (ranging from floaty pastel blouses to costume jewellery cuffs), Sorelle d’Italia is one such find. The European bag range not only includes practical shapes to accommodate all of the holiday ‘essentials’ one amasses, but manages to do so in the season’s most covetable colours. If a neon-yellow dress was a trend-led step too far, a bohemian basket bag won’t be. It’s our June must-have.

13 Hinde Street, W1U 020 7486 7935

NINE REASONS TO LOVE PROENZA SCHOULER Net-a-Porter was one of the first websites to stock Proenza Schouler, the clothing line of Jack McCulloch and Lazaro Hernandez which has an edgy, New York sensibility. It is fitting therefore, that ten years after their first foray into fashion, and with a couple of industry awards under their hipster belts, the duo has gifted an exclusive clothing collection to the style portal. The nine-piece edit is every bit as wearable as the Proenza main line and includes sporty jacket shapes and stripy separates, invigorated with fluoro colours, panels of leather and tweed.

net-a-porter.com

A SHINING

STAR

With costume jewellery brand Mawi the current toast of the fashion world, Gabrielle Lane speaks to the designer proving you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need a hallmark to turn heads

style

t would be easy to start a piece about costume jewellery brand Mawi with a list of its industry accolades and collaborations. But in this case it’s worth leaving the introduction to the designer, Mawi Keivom: “Kaftans, bikinis, baggy white T-shirts and loads of jewels – all you need [to do] is to throw on a Mawi piece and you are set to go.” Travel issue sorted. So enamoured are we as a team with the Mawi aesthetic of gleaming rock-like jewels in peacock hues, futuristic slabs of polished metal which turn necklaces into armour and clutch bags drenched in ten times more glitter than an Anya Hindmarch ‘Valorie’, that we combined this interview with two group shopping trips to the flagship boutique. The brand recently celebrated a decade since its London Fashion Week debut and its subsequent receipt of the British Fashion Council’s New Generation Award for three seasons. Along the way Mawi has cemented working partnerships with the likes of Hugo Boss, Swarovski and Temperley London and friendships with the buying teams of Selfridges and Barney’s in New York. “The brand profile is getting stronger and stronger every season,” says Keivom, a diplomat’s daughter who was born into the cultural vibrancy of north eastern India. “It’s a great place to be but we never take the accolade too seriously and we always have our feet on the ground. Ten years in the business has come with hard work and perseverance. We’ve shed tears of hardship and tears of joy yet we love what we do, every step has been a learning curve. As you grow, the stakes get bigger and there is a constant challenge of keeping ahead of the game.” Keivom is the creative brains of the company who spends up to a year perfecting the look of each piece. Her studio is tucked away in an old mews house with vintage fashions pinned to the wall, its crumbling stone and antique wooden benches contrasting big, glinting display cases. The lady herself epitomises the flamboyance of the brand – dressed in a flowing, patterned blouse and bright red lipstick; husband Tim handles the business side of its operations. “It’s not easy; on the positive side we are brutally honest with each other and we both fight for what we believe in,” she says of their professional roles. “I get to go bonkers and design whatever I want without compromising too much!” So to the three, unrestrained facets of the A/W13 collection. Rebel Rocks is epitomised by thick spike details, bike chain necklaces and industrial-style bracelets bolted together. Rebel Romance includes ornate crystal embellishments mounted on razor blades and shrapnel, which gives chokers and oversized rings a dark, Victorian feel; Deco Glam takes its lead from the 1920s with geometric stones and fringing aplenty. The beauty of the brand is that it proves that sparkle and colour can be embraced, not avoided, with age. The pieces are weighty, lavish and modern. “I strive to create something that is ground-breaking, chic and timeless yet fun and has a sense of humour,” Keivom explains. “I spend a lot of time researching. Our collections are an eclectic combination of traditional elements, industrial and futuristic influences and a heavy dose of punk.” Keivom is savvy, every bit as able to “express herself” as those whom she tells me are the typical Mawi customers. She singles out directional brands such as Balenciaga and Givenchy as names she would like to work with in the future and aims to launch the Mawi brand across the realms of clothing, interiors and homeware. But for now, the edgy entrepreneur’s favourite way to wear her creations is with a razor-blade ring on each finger: “Like..a gangster!” n

mawi.co.uk

Mazzy monochrome cut-out swimsuit, £225, Agent Provocateur, agentprovocateur.com 020 7923 5214, large spike tube and neon pearl ring, £190, and claw-set neon pearl sunray bangle, £485, both Mawi, mawi.co.uk

Here Comes

Sun

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Photography: Jon Attenborough

Stylist: Siouxsie

Mumbai red soft bandeau rectangle bikini, £215, Heidi Klein, heidiklein.com, black straw hat with large sinamay brim, £490, House of Flora for PPQ, houseofflora.net, black studded circular frame sunglasses, £190, Heidi at Wolf & Badger, 32 Dover Street silver dish ring, £120, and silver nugget ring, £75, both Pebble London, pebblelondon.com

Lime and beige Mansfield bikini, ÂŁ205, Moeva moeva.com, organza and silk sheer parka with detachable hood, ÂŁ1,400, Swash, swash.co.uk gold and silver contrast panel bracelets, ÂŁ55 each (worn one on each wrist) Pebble, as before

Black cut-out Tobago swimsuit, £150, Marianna G mariannagswimwear.com, Solar dusk pendant necklace in bronze and iolite with suede cording, £442, Solar flare gold plated earrings, £217, Aesa, stylebop.com, leather fringe Tawaraya sandals, £910, Sergio Rossi, 207a Sloane Street 020 7811 5950

White Bridget plunge swimsuit with gold metal belt, £275, Moeva, moeva.com clear d-frame sunglasses, £320, Linda Farrow, lindafarrow.com stamped navy leather with gold front box clutch, £270 Sophie Hulme, gift-library.com Hair & make-up, using mac pro and kiehl’s: Charlotte Gaskell (lharepresents.com) stylist’s assistant: Daisy Bunyan | Model: Agnieszka Gwara at Nevs Models | Location: Villa San Stephanos, Corfu Greece at Simpson Exclusive, simpsonexclusive.com, 020 3411 4399

high

flying

Photographer : Rachel Pearce Stylist: Ghyl Lebentz

1 Patent leather shoulder bag, £615, Gucci, gucci.com 2 Sun beauty satin sheen oil fast tan optimizer SPF 30, £24, Lancaster, selfridges.com 3 Unstung Hero insect repellent non-toxic natural spray, £20, Mrs White’s, roullierwhite.com 4 Bikini, £260, Lanvin, net-a-porter.com 5 Leather and Swarovski crystal necklace, £395, Miu Miu , miumiu.com

6 Lips hardside trolley spinner suitcase, £195, Lulu Guinness, caseluggage.com 7 Candy case, £750, Aspinal of London, aspinaloflondon.com 8 Craig embellished toyo and cotton-blend trilby, £270, Eugenia Kim, net-a-porter.com 9

Watch roll, £145, Bill Amberg, billamberg.com

10 Claw-set and neon pearl bracelet, £375, MAWI London, mawi.co.uk 11 Watchstrap bracelet with oval gemstone and spike, £325, MAWI London, mawi.co.uk

12 GPS Solar Watch, Seiko, £1,950, seiko-astron.com 13 Strapless mini dress, £1,640, Hervé Léger, 020 7201 2590 14 Skull-embellished sandals, £395, Alexander McQueen, net-a-porter.com 15 Round-frame sunglasses, £300, Cutler and Gross, net-a-porter.com 16 Keith towel, £55, Missoni Home, selfridges.com

17 Travel-sized cleansing products, from £4, Dr. Hauschka, drhauschka.co.uk 18 Clip earrings, £470.04, Bounkit, net-a-porter.com 19 Plain lizard passport holder, £35, Aspinal of London, aspinaloflondon.com

20 iPad with retina display, from £399, Apple, store.apple.com/uk 21 Pleat nappa leather headphones, £250, Molami, harveynichols.com 22 Castor and Pollux Rose Gold, Diamond and Ruby ring, £7,559, JOUBI, joubi.co.uk

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best of

BEauty June

1. The Birds of Paradise collection is Dior’s new take on a tropical summer and includes the Diorskin Nude Paradise Duo, a two-tone wonder palette of bronze and pink, for a holiday glow. Sweep the darker tone over your face and décolletage to intensify a tan, and add the blusher to cheeks for radiance.

£40, Dior, dior.com

2. Carita’s Diamond Beauty for Eyes Day & Night Programme combines two serums for maximum de-puffing, eyebrightening effectiveness. After all, if you’re going to try to banish dark circles and rejuvenate skin tone, you may as well commit to an intensive routine based on microscopic gemstones.

£260, Carita, carita.co.uk

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3. Eminent make-up artists Charlotte Tilbury and Mary Greenwell have all added Decléor Hydra Floral Multi-protection BB Cream to their professional kits since its launch in May. The skincare/colour hybrid incorporates UVA/UVB ray protection, plant-based moisturising agents and the pigment-blending expertise of Shiseido for a bright, even complexion. It’s tipped to become the brand’s biggest launch this year.

£29, Decléor, decleor.co.uk

4. Violet, bronze, coral and gold were the shades chosen for YSL’s summer look and it’s Marrakesh Sunset Palette is a fool-proof way to create smouldering eye make-up. Layer the gold and peach tones for daytime and add either the brown or purple shades to the outer corners of your lids for a seasonal take on smoky by night.

£42, YSL, yslbeauty.co.uk

5. Tom Ford’s new Skin Illuminator in Fire Lust is a light pearlescent liquid shimmer that can be used alone or gives a sun-kissed glow when mixed with foundation. Pack it for your holiday and use sparingly as a highlighter on brows, cheeks and collarbones.

£46, Tom Ford Beauty, selfridges.com

6. Lip balm is getting serious: Gone are the strawberryscented options of youth in favour of an intensive conditioning treatment with philanthropic value, courtesy of Crème de la Mer. In June, its pots get a covetable, limited-edition make-over by Swarovski Elements to celebrate World Ocean’s Day, in partnership with Selfridges. To date, the brand has donated more than $1m to support marine conservation and will also once again wrap its signature moisturiser in a special design to raise awareness of the fragility of the oceanic habitat.

Limited-edition lip balm, £60, and limited-edition 100ml moisturiser, £275, cremedelamer.co.uk

beauty Update

A ROYAL MANICURE Nails Inc has received the Queen’s Award for Enterprise thanks to its overseas trading successes. As well as in London, ladies based as far and wide as Mexico, South Africa and Hong Kong can now receive a quick manicure in one of the stylish nail bars, the brainchild of ex-Tatler fashion editor Thea Green. We hope they are opting for S/S13 shade Primrose Hill Gardens, a vibrant neon-pink, which is available as part of a collection of six.

£22, Nails Inc, nailsinc.com

BEACH HAIR ANYWHERE Those in-the-know have been using the finger-painting technique of hair colouring for a while – it involves gently teasing slightly lighter hues through the mid-lengths of your hair without using foils or brushes. This summer, Daniel Galvin has revived the art of so-called free-handing. The effect is a sultry and sun-kissed colour which looks more ‘holiday’ than ‘highlights’ and renders darker roots irrelevant.

58/60 George Street, W1U danielgalvin.com 020 7486 7774

style

A NOT-SO-SECRET STAPLE Balance Me, a skincare brand rich in essential oils and natural ingredients, has been steadily growing in popularity for a while so it was only a matter of time before the beauty industry gave it some much-deserved recognition. At the 2013 CEW awards, which saw more than 1,000 international professionals cast their votes, Balance Me was named Best British Brand, while its Rose Otto Hand Cream was given the honour of Best New Hand, Foot and Nail Care Product. In fact, the Body Balm is a favourite of ours, a smoother and more sophisticated moisturising butter of old, which rehydrates post-holiday skin.

£20, Balance Me, balanceme.co.uk

THE END for BOTOX?

BE A ‘NATURAL’ While Botox has become almost de rigueur in some circles, June is the launch month for Iovera, a medical anti-wrinkle treatment, which unlike its famous forerunner, is non-toxic. Last year, Dr Yannis Alexandrides, a cosmetic surgeon at 111 Harley Street in Marylebone, became one of the first in the world to trial the focusedcold therapy that works by suspending signals between facial nerves and muscles using a very fine probe which lowers the temperature of the tissue. Results can be seen immediately and last up to three months.

111 Harley Street, W1G 111harleystreet.com 0845 868 1234

If, like us, your concept of ‘bare-faced summer beauty’ isn’t technically bare-faced, prepare for Pure Color Cello Shots from Estée Lauder which are available from the end of the month. ‘Aqua colour’ was creative director Tom Pecheux’s starting point and its one that has given rise to lip and cheek washes with a balm-like texture and a pop of colour. Those who would usually never part from their lipstick should try the Sheer Rush Lipshine, poolside. It’s a highshine, non-sticky and pigment-rich tint, which looks glamorous yet (deceptively) natural.

£19.50, Estée Lauder esteelauder.co.uk

Weird

Science

From placenta facials to fat freezing, we’ll try anything to break the spell of ageing. Gavin Haines delves into some of London’s more bizarre beauty treatments

he pursuit of eternal youth is nothing new. We’ve been obsessing over wrinkles, cursing saggy skin and generally ageing ungraciously since the first homo sapien ran off with a younger model. Of course, by the time early civilisations started sprouting greys, most had succumbed to a horrendous disease – the life expectancy of an ancient Egyptian, for instance, was just 31 years. But despite the brevity of their lives, the ancient Egyptians were early pioneers of anti-ageing treatments. They thought beauty was a sign of holiness and did everything they could to retain their youthful appearance. Those of you who lather up with milk and honey body wash have the Egyptians to thank for that; they bathed in a mixture of the two to keep their skin smooth. There is also evidence to suggest they used clay face masks and mud baths. However, it’s the Greeks we have to thank for bringing a touch of the bizarre to beauty; believing it would prevent ageing, they took to smothering crocodile faeces over their skin. It was dangerous to collect, smelly to apply and begged the question, still just as relevant centuries on: Is there anything we won’t try to stay looking young? Probably not, was the answer I came up with while in Camden last week, where I found myself standing naked in a solarium. This wasn’t, ahem, my first time in such a place, but unlike previous visits I hadn’t come for the UV rays. I was here for red light therapy, which sounds like something you could get arrested for, but is actually a treatment developed by NASA to improve wound healing in astronauts. “They realised the astronauts were going through an anti-ageing process,” explains Suzie Alak, manager of Fred & Ginger beauty salon in Camden. Studies followed, confirming that regular sessions firmed up collagen, improved circulation and reduced blemishes and it wasn’t long before the treatment became

commercially available. Harnessing technology unavailable to ancient Egyptians, red light therapy exposes users to infrared LEDs, which the body reacts to by producing more collagen. “It’s mainly used as an anti-ageing treatment, but it’s a good all-rounder; it helps with cellulite, joint and muscle aches and is good for people who suffer from seasonal affective disorder,” says Suzie. “There are no UV rays, so it’s completely safe.” Each session lasts for 15 minutes and provides you with an instant mood lift. “Sometimes I come in here with my face on the floor and leave dancing,” says Amanda Davies, a client at the salon. However, it wasn’t until the following morning that there were visible results. “You look weird,” was how my sleepy girlfriend articulated her observations. Annoyingly, she was right; my eyes were puffy, although this soon calmed down and later my skin was radiant. According to Beyond MediSpa at Harvey Nichols, I could have enjoyed similar results with its sheep placenta facial. I say enjoyed, but the idea of having afterbirth slapped on my face at £185 a pop is not my idea of fun. The placenta facial was first developed in the US and crossed the pond with another treatment called cryolipolysis (also known as CoolSculpting), which sounds like an infection, but is actually a non-surgical alternative to liposuction. To find out more, I tested the latter procedure at Karidis cosmetic clinic in St John’s Wood. “It’s not pleasant,” warned therapist Helen Chapman, attaching a suction pad to one of the softer areas of my stomach. “This pad sucks up the fat and freezes it to -8C for an hour. It’s quite uncomfortable for the first ten minutes and then it goes numb.” Exposure to such low temperatures kills the fat cells, which are broken down by the body over subsequent weeks. Apparently, the idea behind the treatment came after scientists noticed children who regularly sucked ice

s txyxl xe

The placenta facial was first developed in the US and crossed the pond with another treatment called cryolipolysis, which sounds like an infection, but is actually a non-surgical alternative to liposuction

lollies started developing dimples in their cheeks. I can’t vouch for that, but I can confirm that the treatment is not for the fainthearted; I felt as though the contents of my body would be sucked out of my bellybutton. And then the freezing started. Sure enough after ten minutes, cold discomfort gave way to numbness and I was able to quiz Helen more about cryolipolysis. “Most clients using it are fit, but just can’t seem to get rid of those stubborn pockets of fat,” she says. “They don’t want surgery, and this is an alternative.” An hour later, Helen removed the suction pad, leaving me with a red mark on my belly. “It should get rid of that,” she said, poking my frozen flab. “It will take up to eight weeks, though.” Cryolipolysis might sound like an ordeal, but rolling back the clock has never been easy. Hari’s in Kensington were early pioneers of the Geisha facial, a treatment which involved rubbing bird excrement on people’s faces. Sadly, the Geisha went the same way as bull semen hair conditioner, which was also offered at Hari’s. “There were too many regulations, so we had to stop it,” I’m told, when I call to book an appointment. Shame, because this protein-rich treatment was lauded for its ability to add shine and youthful body to your locks. Eager to reap the benefits of this sacred semen I search for other places offering the treatment, but yield no results. However, I am offered black-market bull sperm from a farmer’s son, which I politely decline. My pursuit of eternal youth leads me off the streets of London and onto the internet (if you are Googling treatments with semen in, I recommend setting a safe search), where I find a beauty therapy with a sting. The snake venom mask (£115) uses the anti-ageing properties of snake poison, which is said to protect the cell structure of your skin with regular use. Only time will tell whether any of these treatments actually work. Until then I’m left with the conclusion that, like Dorian Gray, the ravages of time catch us all in the end. It’s how we deal with it that counts. n

QUINTESSENTIAL BRITISH LEATHER GOODS SINCE 1934

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

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19/1/12 11:18 AM

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iNCLUSIVE Six weeks to an Elle Macpherson summer-holiday body? It might just be possible, discovers Gabrielle Lane

magine you realised you had six weeks to get into the shape of your life. And imagine what it would take to replace the ensuing panic and cynicism with a smile. If you’re thinking along the lines of a crack team of trainers, a beauty cabinet stuffed full of products and a couple of miracle workers to apply them, you’re not far wrong. But where to start? Eqvvs training – coincidentally, Macpherson’s London personal training studio of choice – recently assembled the ultimate ‘experts’ team of experts’ for a top-tier package it’s calling eqvvsONE. Technically, it’s a bridal programme which includes a consultation with couture stylist Kate Halfpenny to help find the most jaw-dropping, form-fitting gown. However, if you didn’t have a husband when you started the regime, chances are you’d attract one in the course of the preening. But it’s worth undertaking for its beachy ideals. To ensure you feel as good as you look, nutrition is overseen by Rob Hobson of RH Nutrition who can help with everything from weight loss to energy optimisation with a personal eating plan. Toning and tightening is managed in house with three 60 minute fitness sessions per week and 18 hours of pampering is incorporated in total, courtesy of Urban Retreat at Home, which originally honed its carefully executed timetable of massages, wraps, waxing, facials and lymphatic drainage for the discerning clientele of Harrods. Enter the very same Urban Retreat at Harrods hair team, who can help you put wedding or night-out hair to the test at one of the salon’s 40 styling stations. The finishing touch is arranged with one of the UK’s leading self-tanning experts, James Read, who works his magic bronzing wand for a flawless skin finish. We can’t wait to name drop. n

eqvvs.com 020 7838 1138 Image courtesy of halfpennylondon.com Shot on location at twonhallhotel.com Photography by Philip Dunlop

578 KINGS ROAD LONDON SW6 2DY WWW.GUINEVERE.CO.UK

+44 (0)20 7736 2917

interiors

wish list

SAFE BET There’s always the worry when jetting off abroad about where you’ll leave the watches and pendants you don’t wish to take with you. Technical masterpieces of aesthetic perfection, every Stockinger safe is custommade, tailored specifically to the client’s wishes. Using proven technology from Switzerland and Germany, the team of highly experienced and discreet craftsmen combine maximum security with elegant, luxurious and quality design. Likening the ordering process to that of a new car, you can choose everything from the interior finish to the exterior lacquer, the size and shape of compartments and trays, as well as a left or right-hand door opening. Other features include a watch-winder and silent alarm. Production takes six to ten weeks and will deliver anywhere in the world.

stockinger.com

Interiors inspiration AMY’S CHOICE Adept at working with hotel and yacht designers, every item at Amy Somerville is made to order. By appointment only, you’ll find a treasure trove of beautiful rugs, lamps, units and upholstery at the Primrose Hill store, with most designs adhering to organic curves and precision lines. If you’re looking for a centrepiece cabinet, desk or bedside table, there are some truly individual creations here, which you won’t find anywhere else.

Leeder House, 6 Erskine Road, NW3 amysomerville.com, 020 7586 2211

BISH BASH BOCH Functionality and aesthetic simplicity is the ethos behind Villeroy & Boch’s new Artesano Original line, a 32-piece collection crafted from a mix of premium porcelain, beautiful acacia wood, cork and slate. This classic design with a contemporary twist lends itself to outdoor summer dining with friends and family and includes a range of classic white breakfast, dinner and bread plates which mix effortlessly with serving dishes, jugs and accessories. The star of the collection, we think, is a three-tier server with slate platters. So start perfecting your afternoon tea now.

villeroy-boch.co.uk

YOU KNOW IT’S WHITE Don’t you just love a good collaboration? The understated Italian furniture brand ercol and The White Company have teamed up to produce the simplistic yet stylish Devon Collection. Using oak and birch to compile the pieces, cabinet exteriors are painted in a soft white, while the interior of the wardrobe shelves, rails and drawers retains the natural colourings of the wood. The solid oak legs, handles and spindles are synonymous with ercol design.

Prices range from £175 to £1,695 The White Company 12 Marylebone High Street, W1U

interiors

Pictured: the Orchard Silks collection featuring the Parasol Stripe design

up THE WALL The Rockett St George Barneby Gates wallpaper line is the brainchild of Vogue Living Editor Vanessa Barneby and Alice Gates, graduate of London Art School and fashion textile designer. And we haven’t been disappointed with a print since they set-up-shop in 2009. These new paisley patterns, available in turquoise on ‘old grey’ and hot pink on ‘tea-stain’ are stunningly ornate, mixing cool, contemporary and quirky design with Indian-inspired textiles.

£78 per 10 metre roll rockettstgeorge.co.uk

THE RIGHT STRIPES Nothing says ‘bracing British summer’ quite like the stripe of a pierside parasol. The newest edition to the James Hare line, the Parasol design collection combines classic pastels with pops of colour and is available in five colourways. Ideal for conservatory curtains or a beach-house inspired boudoir, you can buy the brand worldwide, so you’ll have no problem getting it to your holiday home, be it in Juan, Tuscany or Cape Town.

£55 per metre, available at Liberty james-hare.com

CONRAN CAN The Conran Shop, Designer’s Guild, Farrow & Ball, Fired Earth – Marylebone High Street is a mecca for home décor enthusiasts, who like nothing more than to spend their days perusing the paints, papers, pots and pans available at some of their (and our) all-time favourite shops. As a celebration of the area’s fabulous interiors offering don’t miss the village’s inaugural Interiors Day on 25 May, running all day and into the evening and comprising a wealth of workshops, talks and free consultations. Highlights include a presentation by Grange on ‘My Grange’, a software programme that enables furniture personalisation and a demonstration on how Skandium’s Fritz Hansen Wicker PK22 chairs are woven, courtesy of maker Lene herself. A few days later, from 1-2 June, salute the newly refurbished Marylebone Conran Shop with complimentary food, drinks and prizes.

55 Marylebone High Street, W1U conranshop.co.uk

RETURN TO

GREATNESS As the Great Northern Hotel re-opens its doors after an extravagant renovation project, Gabrielle Lane discovers its secrets in the company of owner and operator Jeremy Robson and head architect David Archer

Chandelier in the GNH Bar

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“W

hy wouldn’t I?!” There is no irony in the voice of Jeremy Robson, MD of asset management company RAM and owner/operator of the Great Northern Hotel. Four-and-ahalf years ago, amidst turmoil in the financial markets, the collapse of Lehman Brothers and the impending restoration of King’s Cross’ gothic jewel, the St. Pancras Renaissance – itself a 254-bedroom hotel – Robson saw potential in its apparently smaller, plainer neighbour. So he invested £40m in the site. A century-and-a-half after it originally opened (in 1854) plans for the Lewis Cubbitt-designed property had ranged from complete demolition to the creation of a budget hotel in keeping with the needs of the railway station’s many commuters. Today we are sat, together with lead architect David Archer, in the boutique hotel’s GNH bar, Manhattan-esque in its glossy, marble and pewter-clad appearance. “I didn’t share that view,” Jeremy smiles wryly. “The expectation was that a budget hotel would be better for the location [and] that it was capable of being delivered in those market conditions. However, you have to focus in business on what is achievable, but also measure that against vision and having the courage and conviction to deliver something. As the world’s first railway hotel, it deserves to be a landmark. In our design we have tried to capture the original, classical architecture with an understated, but noticeable quality. In this location, of the 135million people passing through each year, there’s a large number that are discerning and who require the kind of services we are offering.” Throughout our conversation, Jeremy quotes figures, from the height of the 17 windows in the restaurant (three metres) to the cost of the structural investigative works undertaken prior to renovation (£324,000). He greets all of the staff members we encounter – from

A Cubitt room

Plum & Spilt Milk

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Exterior of the Great Northern Hotel

barmen to restaurant managers – by name and talks me through various minute details, from a mechanism that enables the chambermaids to make the beds efficiently, to a customised hanging rail for outfit-laden guests, with great enthusiasm and humour. His omniscience conveys not only the team’s passion for the project, but its attention-to-detail. In lighter moments, David will joke that Jeremy’s favourite parts of the hotel are its leatherlined drawers in the suites, but the architect is the first to acknowledge the complexity and commitment involved in acquiring and planning the development. “Working on a building like this, it’s the kind of project people fall in love with. That affects everyone, the project manager, the contractors and the subcontractors,” he says. Designs for the Grade-II listed building were produced in careful consultation with Camden Council and commercial real estate firm CBRE. As a gateway site to the redevelopment of the area, its controllers, King’s Cross Central, also contributed specifications throughout the process. “The planning application had a number of successes,” David explains. “The planning officers agreed to let us take the lifts up to the fifth floor, which released a whole floor into the room inventory which had formerly been servants’ quarters. That provided an additional 22 rooms, each with their own character. We were also able to design the building to have a dual aspect. When we first looked at the building, it opened onto the concourse, which some thought wasn’t a great advantage. I think it now aligns with the buildings of Paris or Rome, in terms of having these wonderful spaces that open onto public areas and galleries.” David names the spacious corridors, which were originally intended to accommodate the passing of Victorian ladies in bustle skirts, as one of his favourite architectural features and regularly chooses to dine while seated in one of the curved, corner booth spaces of the restaurant, Plum & Spilt Milk. With cracked lava table tops, cascades of pendant lighting and an adjoining ‘snug’ or cocktail bar, it has an uplifting ambience in the evening, but is bright and well-proportioned enough to attract the well-heeled breakfasting set. It was the decision to drop the floor level by one metre that unlocked the use of the space, giving it high-end restaurant status in its own right, complete with eminent chef director Mark Sargeant.

GNH Bar

Attention-to-detail is paramount

Throughout the scheme, the design team of 82 members was tasked with manifesting spaces which possessed enduring style and felt inviting “from dawn until dusk”. The resulting décor – solid walnut fittings, engraved mirrored ceilings, grand chandeliers and marble checkerboard flooring juxtaposed with floor-toceiling windows and wrought iron staircases – makes the hotel feel like a home, albeit a very glamorous one. Of the three bedroom types, Jeremy singles out the Couchette for praise. The design is intended to emulate that of a Victorian railway sleeper carriage and it incorporates double beds that are flanked by pillars of cream leather and built into window recesses. The Cubbitt is similarly smart with its sense of light and space enhanced by fluted glass doors to the bathroom, Venetian-style mirrors and bespoke furniture, while the Wainscot rooms draw a heady, romantic ambience from sloping ceilings and walnut panelling. It was when the first coats of paint were applied to the accent walls (in shades of olive, indigo and stone that were very nearly supplemented with salmon pink) that the two men felt their shared vision was being realised. “It’s exactly what we wanted it to be,” says Jeremy. “We spent a considerable amount on CGIs and what they projected is what we’ve got. I’m very happy with it. But it’s not so much whether people will like it, as much as if they ‘feel’ it, whether it’s got soul.” David is certain of its success: “There’s a feeling of friendliness. It captures it. There is a sense of civilised space and energy you can’t imagine.” n

Great Northern Hotel, King’s Cross, N1C GNHLondon.com, 020 3388 0800

CONTESSA To own a rare Argyle pink diamond is to own a truly magnificent heirloom. Contessa, beautifully handcrafted in Platinum and 18ct Rose Gold, features an exquisite combination of stunning craftsmanship and the rarest of Australian Argyle pink diamonds. Simply, they are the rarest diamonds in the world and are revered for their unique provenance and intrinsic beauty.

UNITED KINGDOM The Royal Arcade, Old Bond St, Mayfair London W1S 4SW AUSTRALIA Sydney Gold Coast calleija.com

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A World of Watches The watch and jewellery worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s answer to Fashion Week was back this year amid record numbers of visitors. Over an eightday period at the end of April, Baselworld presented the collections, creations and innovations that had been keeping the sector busy over the previous 12 months. With a newly-built hall of biblical proportions, more than 1,000 new stands, and buyers from 100 countries, the 2013 show was an extravagant indication, if evidence were needed, of the flourishing state of the industries involved. World-class brands, from Bulgari and Boucheron to Rolex and Rado, were all accounted for, showcasing their inventions from Baselworld embodiments of their flagship boutiques. Vantage magazine was among the 3,600 international media invited to attend; read on for our verdict of the event.

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From the Honeycomb Eternelle Ring Collection

33 Albemarle Street - Mayfair, London WIS 4BP - Tel. 020 7629 5616 MILANO, VENEZIA, FIRENZE, CALA DI VOLPE, CAPRI, PARIS, MONTE CARLO, LONDON, MOSCOW, NEW YORK, CHICAGO,ASPEN, BEVERLY HILLS, TOKYO, OSAKA, HONG KONG, SIDNEY WWW.BUCCELLATI.COM

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watch news A Very British Partnership Away from Baselworld’s main halls, British brand Bremont announced it will be teaming up with the Bletchley Park Trust to produce a limited edition timepiece. Called the Codebreaker and inspired by a classic 40s officer’s watch, the piece will be made with a unique flyback chronograph GMT automatic movement and will incorporate historical artefacts from Bletchley Park, including pine from the iconic Hut 6 and paper from one of the few remaining punch cards. Part of the rotor of the watch will be made from the wheel of an original Enigma machine. Just 240 steel Codebreakers will be made, and 50 in rose gold.

Good Things, Small Packages Every watch brand has a particular ‘thing’. Breitling’s is aviation. Zenith’s is precision. What Piaget specialises in is the field of ultra-thin movements, so it’s no surprise, then, that its latest creation sets not one but two records in that category. Laying claim to being the world’s thinnest mechanical self-winding watch (9.4 mm) and boasting the world’s thinnest minute repeater movement (4.8 mm), the Emperador Coussin Ultra-Thin Minute Repeater comes courtesy of a brand that has created no less than 35 in-house movements in just 14 years. Of course, world records come at a price; the 18-karat pink gold watch will separate you from £200,000.

piaget.com

One to Watch Each month we select our timepiece of the moment from the watch world’s most exciting pieces

Originally designed to meet the timing needs of professional racing drivers in 1963, the Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona is now one of the most iconic timepieces a watch aficionado can own Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona 40mm, £50,100, Watches of Switzerland, 29 Old Bond Street

Bremont Boutique 29 South Audley Street bremont.com

Regatta Ready Unveiled to the watch world at SIHH in January, the three watches that make up Panerai’s 2013 collection have now arrived in the UK. The pieces feature the company’s new in-house flyback chronograph calibre P.9100 and a new Radiomir 1940 case, inspired by the Radiomir of the 1940s. Of the three, with its regatta countdown function, which is displayed via an overlaid orange hand, the Luminor 1950 Regatta 3 Days Chrono Flyback Titanio is perhaps the most striking (£11,800). It’s certainly our favourite.

panerai.com

Blue is the Colour Noteworthy, colour-wise, at Baselworld 2012 and among the prevailing whites and blacks, was the frequent use of royal blue on both faces and straps. This year the trend was even more manifest with varying degrees of blue being the colour of choice for myriad brands. Away from Rolex’s Cosmograph Daytona in platinum, which you can see on Watch News as our One To Watch this month, our other azure-shaded favourites included Hermès’ navy Arceau Chrono Colors (£4,350), Glashütte Original’s Midnight Blue Senator Sixties Panorama Date (£3,500) and Patek Philippe’s Gondolo 8 Days, Day & Date Ref. 5200 (£39,960).

Baselworld 2013

The Watches In April we visited the world’s largest watch fair. Amid the classic and the contemporary, the refined and the sublime, these were the timepieces that most caught our eye, reports Richard brown

The Music Machine by MB&F Away from the largest of brands, in a hall aptly named the Palace, the impatient eyes of a group of expectant journalists fell upon a black box on the centre of a table. What had MB&F, a company dedicated to creating the most radical of horological masterpieces, brought to the show? As the box was lifted, the answer was revealed in the shape of a, err, music box. Well, a ‘Music Machine’ to be precise. Encircled by the most inventive of timepieces from the most daring of brands, you’d think it would have been a bit like bringing a water pistol to a gun fight. And that may have been the case, had this not been MB&F. With its dual propellers and twin silver cylinders mounted on sleek ‘landing gear’, 33 in white, 33 in black, the collaboration with Reuge, the premier manufacturer of music boxes on the planet, looked more spaceship than music device. Inspiring to look at, beautiful to listen to, like everything else in the Palace of Dreams, the Music Machine was out of this world. Prepare to depart with just shy of £8,500 should you want one.

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Toe to Toe Into the Deep Oyster Perpetual GMT Master II 904L Steel, £5,950, Rolex

V. A Constant Force You may not be aware of the countless components that go into making a mechanical wristwatch but know this; of the ones that do, the escapement is probably the most important. Responsible for transferring the power to the instrument that keeps the watch ticking, it effectively controls how accurately your timekeeper keeps time. It’s exciting, then, when a brand announces that it has just reimagined the escapement in a way that will revolutionise the way watches are made forever. After five years of R & D, Girard-Perregaux did just that. The company’s Constant Escapement uses an extremely thin blade (1/6th of a human hair) to store energy and deliver near constant force to where it’s needed (see GP’s website for an explanation as to how). The movement takes its place in a comfortable round 48mm diameter case in white gold with a curved case band. Featuring a hand-sewn alligator strap and folding clasp, the model will be offered in Girard-Perregaux’s Haute Horlogerie collection for £98,000 (excluding tax), exclusively at Harrods.

Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe £7,330, Blancpain

Take to the Skies

BR-01-92 Airspeed £3,200, Bell & Ross

Montre D’Aeronef Type 20 Annual Calendar, £7,300, Zenith

Race against Time

Mesmerising Appeal Several years ago Maurice Lacroix set forth with the aim of creating the most innovative way of measuring time. Following in the footsteps of the unconventional Roue Carrée, 2013 saw the Masterpiece Seconde Mystérieuse (£10,500) become the product of that ambition. While the watch’s skeletonisation and off-centred hours impress, it is the piece’s perplexing seconds’ indicator that really draws the eye. Driven by the ML215 calibre – a new Maurice Lacroix movement and the 12th to be entirely developed in-house – the hand marks out a linear reading of the seconds, in alternating horizontal and vertical 15-second cycles. Turning on its axis, as though in full levitation, the hand produces a mesmerising optical illusion. The Masterpiece Seconde Mystérieuse is available in two limited series of 125 pieces each. We don’t expect them to remain on the market for long.

Admiral’s Cup AC-One 45 £6,825 Corum

Bentley B04 GMT £8,210, Breitling

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jewellerynews Golden Opportunity

The Jazz Age As the pre-eminent jeweller in New York during the 1920s, Tiffany & Co. was the likely choice for Baz Luhrmann’s The Great Gatsby, bejewelling Carey Mulligan and Isla Fisher in legendary Tiffany diamonds and cascading pearls. To coincide with the film’s recent release, the jewellery house brought out its own lines of Art Deco-inspired pieces: the Ziegfeld and Great Gatsby Collections. Continuing in this celebration of the Jazz Age, Tiffany & Co. has also released its annual Blue Book inspired by the jewellery of the era. The unveiling of the collection took place last month at the Blue Book Ball in New York and 20 of the pieces in the collection were worn by the actors in the film.

tiffany.co.uk

Cutting Edge London Jewellery Week (LJW) exhibitor Fei Liu has been creating a stir on the international fine jewellery scene ever since he launched his eponymous label in 2006. The designer returns this year to LJW to present his latest collection of BESPOKE pieces

“The chance to rework a piece of Chinese history into a contemporary setting is what inspired many of my BESPOKE designs. Working with antiques is a challenge and a joy, as I am able to take tradition and combine it with technology.” BESPOKE Allure Hero Interchangeable Ring and Pendant in platinum with diamonds, feiliu.co.uk

The Goldsmiths’ Pavilion is set to return this June to Somerset House and will see 114 jewellery designers showcasing pieces. This is a rare opportunity for visitors not only to get up close and personal with the jewellery on display but also with the skilled craftsmen who often remain behind the scenes. The fine jewellers displaying their work include designer Lily Hastedt, Sarah Herriot, Ingo Henn and Ute Decker, among others.

26-29 June thegoldsmiths.co.uk

Three’s a Charm Zoe & Morgan’s S/S13 collection draws upon the two designers’ childhood travels and their appreciation for diverse cultures and ancient jewellery crafts. Pieces such as the Elise necklace refer to the lotus, the Buddhist symbol of enlightenment, while the Yantra stud earrings feature the triangle: a universal motif possessing multiple meanings in different cultures. Launched in 2006, Zoe & Morgan is the brainchild of three siblings; Zoe and Morgan Sibbald create the pieces, while sister Ruth is the company’s director. Well, three is a magic number after all.

Zoe & Morgan, 48 Chalcot Road NW1 8LS, zoeandmorgan.com

Swiss movement, English heart

Bespoke ETA 2824-2 Jumping Hour automatic modification by Master Watchmaker Johannes Jahnke / Each piece, of only 250, personally assembled by Johannes and his team in Switzerland / 43mm, surgical grade stainless steel case with sapphire crystal and transparent case back / CITES certified, premium grade, Louisiana alligator deployment strap / 5 year movement guarantee

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Fancy vivid yellow radiant cut diamond ring, POA Jacob & Co, jacobandco.com

True Colours

The halls of Baselworld were Cutting Edge: a riot of colour as designers Swarovski by Shourouk experimented with new and explosive coloured diamonds. First presented in Toronto at the launch Brumani and De Grisogono of its Fall 2013 Secret Treasures, Swarovski welcomed us into summer with decided to bring its new capsule collection their vibrant mix of colourful with fashion jewellery brand Shourouk to creations. One particular shade Basel, much to the delight of fashionista stood out from the rest and that visitors. From statement earrings to crystal was green. The ‘colour of the year bib necklaces and neon bracelets, 2013’ (so heralded by the Pantone the accessible new range is one Colour Institute) manifested itself most to watch for S/S13. commonly through the emerald. Fabergé’s Les Danses Fantasques includes the La Esmeralda suite featuring cabochon emerald beads. Universal and appealing, the lush colour gave a fresh lease of life to jewellery collections.

Sugar watch, POA De Grisogono, degrisogono.com

Basel

Jewellery La Esmeralda necklace POA, Fabergé faberge.com

From floral blooms and lush greens to whimsical creatures and pop-colour gemstones, jewellers reawakened the halls of Baselworld this year with their fresh and summery collections, says Olivia Sharpe

Dior VIII Grand Bal Plume timepiece £45,900, Dior, dior.com

Catene timepiece, POA Bulgari, bulgari.com

Our Pick of... Ladies’ Watches Fashion houses proved they could keep up with the mastery of the Swiss watchmakers

Arceau lipstick timepiece in stainless steel 32mm, £2,600 Hermès, hermes.com

Nipped in the Bud

Poppy ring from the Red Carpet Collection 2013 POA, Chopard, chopard.com

Flowers bloomed bold and beautiful as jewellers championed S/S13’s top fashion trend: florals. While Mikimoto and Schreiner Fine Jewellery went for the full bouquet, Chopard opted for a single, striking 3D-effect poppy ring. This year saw Garrard unveil its Tudor Rose collection; the reinterpretation of the heraldic emblem of England, presented in 30 different pieces, is a testament to Garrard’s historic legacy as one of Britain’s oldest jewellers. But no matter how the flower was presented by designers, the end result was the same: feminine, beautiful and delicate.

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of the Best Show-Stoppers

Diamond Necklace from the Red Carpet Collection 2013 POA, Chopard, chopard.com

Olive pendant, £2,450 Mikimoto, mikimoto.co.uk

Cyprus ring, POA Boucheron, 164 New Bond St.

All Creatures Great and Small

Tudor Rose Suite, POA Garrard, garrard.com

Many designers caused smiles to break out with their playful and humorous selection of animal figurines on display at the convention. From Boucheron’s charming Tortoise and Pink Flamingo rings in rose gold and quartz to dark knight Stephen Webster’s creatures of the night, these jewellers are living life on the wild side.

Flamingo ring, £17,400, Boucheron 164 New Bond St.

Batmoth ring from Fly by Night collection POA, Stephen Webster stephenwebster.com

Manchettes Lignes POA, Messika messika-joaillerie.com

Wings 10th anniversary pendant, £20,000 Garrard, garrard.com

Year of the Snake 2013 marks the year of the snake so a number of jewellers took the opportunity to pay tribute. Boucheron did itself proud with its new Serpent Bohème collection, but it was Bulgari that stole the show. The luxury goods house honoured the iconic Serpenti collection and the Tubogas jewellery technique with its incredible architectural statement: the outer façade of the Basel stand had been reincarnated as a snake shrine, a sight which caused many breaths to be drawn.

The Merchant of Venice Marco Bicego’s Murano collection has been inspired by the colours and artisanship of the small Venetian island of Burano, a place that has forever been close to the designer’s heart. Murano bracelet, £4,270 Marco Bicego harrods.com

celebrate Father’s day

this year’s Father’s Day coincides with the Canary Wharf Motorexpo, meaning there’s only one place to be come 16 June. Bare witness to the world’s most impressive motoring machines in some of the capital’s most dynamic surroundings Canary wharf Motorexpo 2013 The world’s largest free-to-visit motoring event returns to Canary Wharf this June. Set to be the most important event in Canary Wharf’s Motorexpo history, this year gives you the perfect way to celebrate Father’s Day. Transforming the global business location with displays of the latest vehicles from the world’s leading automotive makers, expect the likes of Lamborghini, Maserati, Ferrari and Aston Martin, amongst others, all to be in attendance. Don’t miss the opportunity to book your test drive during the show. For details visit www.motorexpo.com, look out for the Drive Me signs or pick up your free copy of The Motorexpo Directory 2013 on arrival. Canary Wharf is only 20 minutes from St John’s Wood via the Jubilee Line and at weekends and Bank Holidays you can enjoy 3 hours’ free parking in any of the public car parks when you spend £10 at any shop, café, bar or restaurant. Canary Wharf Motorexpo, 10 - 16 June. Free

Treat your father to lunch at BOISDALE OF CANARY WHARF Serving the finest dry aged Scottish steak alongside the very best in jazz, blues and soul via live music events, Boisdale of Canary Wharf is the ideal place to take your dad come Father’s Day. Head to the restaurant on 16 June and enjoy a flute of sparkling Chateau de Sours Rosé, a three course lunch featuring traditional Sunday roast including Aberdeenshire dry-aged roast rib of beef with goose fat roast potatoes and Yorkshire pudding and a gift for dad to take home for £42.50 per person. There is also a walk-in humidor and 12 metre long whisky bar to take advantage of. Boisdale of Canary Wharf, Cabot Square 020 7715 5818, www.boisdale.co.uk

SHOPPING Open weave silk dot pocket square, £45, Thomas Pink, Cabot Place

The shaving kit, £195, Molton Brown, Jubilee Place ‘Dots blue V’ I phone 5 cover, £28, Hugo Boss, Cabot Place After shave balm & moisturizer, £17.50, Kiehl’s since 1851, Jubilee Place Breton stripe rugby shirt, £95, Gant, Canada Place

Classic hip flask, £65, Aquascutum, Cabot Place

Good LeGrand Ballpoint pen, £280, MontBlanc, Canada Place

Burma canvas Bag, £175, Reiss, Jubilee Place Navy Mogador stripe tie, £95, Alfred Dunhill, Cabot Place

Multi block cufflinks, £60, Hackett, Cabot Place

Gifts for him treat your father to the best in fashion, gadgets and grooming courtesy of Canary Wharf Tartan check Linen shirt, £195, Alfred Dunhill, Cabot Place

Earset 3i, £149, Bang & Olufsen, South Colonnade

Bridge set in Leather Case, £135, Aspinal of London, Cabot Place

Stratford suede shoe, £195, Church’s, Cabot Place Zenith Striking 10th, £6,995, Charles Fish, Cabot Place

www.canarywharf.com

@yourcanarywharf

OD O W S NW8 ’ N H O ST. J STREET HIGH SSOCIATION NESS

Classic & Supercar

PAGEANT BUSI

SUNDAY JUNE 23 , 11 - 5 rd

JOIN US TO RAISE MONEY FOR: RAYS OF SUNSHINE & ST JOHN’S HOSPICE

AT THE ST JOHN’S WOOD CLASSIC & SUPERCAR PAGEANT. Featuring a dazzling array of over 30 Classic & Supercars, a fun fair for the ‘small kids’, plus the high street’s fantastic food & superb fashion for the ‘big kids’! It really is a perfect summertime Sunday for all the family.

www.stjohnswoodnw8.com John’s Hospice THE HOSPICE OF THE CHARITABLE HOSPITAL OF ST JOHN & ST ELIZABETH

John’s Hospice THE HOSPICE OF THE CHARITABLE HOSPITAL OF ST JOHN & ST ELIZABETH

IN ASSOCIATION WITH VANTAGE MAGAZINE

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LIFE’S A BEACH Since September 2012, one of our favourite little London eateries has been hosting monthly events for the city’s pampered pooches. And now that Gaucho Hampstead’s Doggy Sundays are all but legendary, its June offering – a canine beach party, no less – is set to be no exception. With the capital (hopefully) in the throes of summer, dogs and their owners will have the chance to laze by Gaucho’s special ‘pooch pool’, enjoy a red-carpet entrance, specially themed cocktails (including the k9pirinha), a three-course meal and endless doggy treats, with profits benefiting the Mayhew Animal Home in Kensal Green.

2 June, 64 Heath Street, NW3

nurserynews FAIRYTALE FASHION Already stocked by the likes of Harvey Nichols and soon to be gracing the rails of Harrods and Selfridges too, Australian-based brand Mischka Aoki finally came to our attention after stealing the show at Global Kids Fashion Week in March. Boasting chic outfits perfect for any special occasion, little princesses will burst with glee at the fluffy tulle skirts and beautiful sequin bodices, not to mention the lashings of lace and silky-soft lining, guaranteed to please even the fussiest of little fashionistas.

mischkaaoki.com

ARABIAN NIGHTS With our globe getting smaller by the minute, cultural awareness is more important than ever – and how better to introduce your child to the mystical depths of the Arabic world than through Kan Ya Makan (Once Upon A Time), the Cockpit Theatre’s newest offering for over-eights. Wise, inspiring and funny, the interactive event weaves together traditional Arabic folktales, expertly retold by acclaimed story-tellers Alia AIZougbi and Ammar Haj Ahmad to echo modern-day events – and as if that wasn’t enough, tickets even include a free tasty treat from the Middle East.

23 June, Gateforth Street, NW8

the PRAM WITH PANACHE When we heard about the new Wayfarer from pram-makers Silver Cross, we could hardly contain ourselves. The latest design features a range of changeable hood and apron covers in seven shades, allowing stylish mums to effortlessly pair pram and couture like never before.

silvercrossbaby.com

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MATERNITY À LA MODE When diplomat’s wife Sophie Devonshire struggled to find stylish, formal maternity wear during her pregnancy, she identified a gap in the market that was dying to be filled – seven years later, her company Babes with Babies is going strong, providing glamorous ladies with elegant maternity and breastfeeding-friendly fashions that don’t scrimp on comfort. Selecting cutting-edge designs for expectant mums, the range also includes gift ideas for parents, chic baby bags and a wide range of plush pampering kits.

babeswithbabies.com

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co Pet’s

SOMETHING FISHY With a bit of help from mum and dad, fish can be ideal pets for little ones craving their first creature companion, helping them to learn basic responsibilities before moving on to larger and more demanding animals. It’s lucky, then, that Pets at Home is stocking an adorable line of cartoon-inspired home aquarium kits from longtrusted brand Penn Plax, featuring Spongebob Squarepants and Scooby Doo tanks, plus a whole host of unusual aquarium ornaments to delight pet and pint-sized owner alike.

Pets at Home, Silk Bridge Retail Park, NW9

life’s little luxuries Children’s furniture experts Dragons of Walton Street and five star hotel Grosvenor House have put their heads together to create the first ever central London luxury nursery suite. The quintessential British playroom will replace one of the hotel’s Premium Park View Suites and officially opens to the public in June, part of a package adorably entitled ‘Suite Dreams’.

MIND YOUR MANNERS Ever since the creation of the Pet Passport, beloved furry companions have been trotting off to far-flung climes like nobody’s business – enter the Guide to Good Petiquette for the Travelling Dog, a one-stop-shop for all you need to know about the dos and don’ts of pet travel, including a packing list and the five commandments of doggy decorum. The guide was put together by veterinary retailer MedicAnimal and is available to download for free on its website – also worth a visit if you’re running low on chew toys and healthy treats.

marriott.co.uk medicanimal.com

PLAY TIME Created exclusively for theatre-goers under the age of three, Curious at the Tricycle Theatre is the perfect way to introduce your little one to the experience of live performance, exploring everyday objects in an interactive, relaxed environment that’ll have them well and truly bitten by the theatre bug.

8 June, 269 Kilburn High Road, NW6

TIPS

FROM THE TOP With summer fatigue setting in, Gemma Knight asks some of north west Londonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best prep schools and private tutors their top tips for keeping your child on track

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he sun is out, the sky is blue and, all over the country, little heads are substituting sums and school books for inviting images of the lazy summer days fast approaching. And there’s nothing wrong with that, of course – with today’s youngsters under more academic pressure than ever, they will certainly have earned a rest. But first they must tackle the end-of-year exam season and, with spring fever setting in and the distraction of summer holidays looming large, it’s crucial to know how best to keep your child focused until that final bell rings. Luckily, we’ve sought advice from some of north west London’s top prep schools and private tutors on the very best ways to guide your child through exam season unscathed.

Sarum Hall School 15 Eton Avenue, NW3

Catering for all-female students between the ages of three and 11, the school was founded in 1929 by Miss V E Webb, the first headmistress, and is now regarded as one of north west London’s most popular small independent institutes, with many students going on to attend the capital’s most prominent senior schools (often on scholarships). The school is frequently praised for its intimate, friendly, yet traditional ethos. Exam tips for your children from Headmistress Christine Smith: • Try to think of exams as an amazing opportunity to show what you know • Before you sit an exam, close your eyes, breathe slowly and imagine your completed paper covered in ticks, not crosses • Be sure to dress for the occasion; always wear your smartest uniform • Use your favourite pen and have a back-up • Tell yourself ‘well done’ when you have finished • Do not dwell on answers you wished you had put • Don’t discuss your exam with anyone except your parents or teachers • Reward yourself with some physical activity; go swimming, horse-riding or get on your bike

Tavistock Tutors 92 Clifton Hill, NW8

Based in Paddington and offering more than 350 private tutors within the London area, Tavistock boasts some of the best results in the capital, providing professional private tutors for 11+, 13+, entrance exams, GCSEs, A-Levels and undergraduate subjects in pretty much every imaginable discipline (struggling with your trombone lessons? No problem. Need a hand with your Dutch homework? Look no further). Particularly renowned for their promptness, reliability and dedication (they’re contactable day and night, 365 days a year), many a London student undoubtedly owes their straight-As to the team at this outstanding enterprise. Tips from founders Marcus Ereira and Luke Shelley: We’ve seen an improvement in academic performance

with students that receive incentives from parents. These could be in the form of awards for excellence, but we also believe there should be a strong balance between study hours and free time so students don’t feel the full pressure and stress of exams. Performance is much greater with most students in more relaxed situations.

Abercorn International School 248 Marylebone Road, NW1

Established in 1987 with only 42 students and now housed across several stunning listed buildings (the middle school in the premises of the former St Marylebone Grammar School and upper school in Wyndham Place on the prestigious Portman Estate), this co-educational prep school has gained an enviable record of excellence by constantly evaluating each student’s development in order to foster individual talents and skills. The school prides itself on its stateof-the-art equipment and the opportunity it offers to thoroughly prepare children for the modern age in which we live, although they attach great importance to traditional values above all. Admissions Co-ordinator Edward Hill explains how to keep students motivated: To sustain students’ enthusiasm over the two years of Common Entrance preparation, we build up the pressure slowly and make sure the children know that it is three-and-a-half days of exams and then they have the reward of our Year 8 Post-CE programme. This is full of activities and trips, but it also gives us the opportunity to bring in new experiences for the children and guest speakers to broaden their educational experience. The highlight is the exchange visits between ourselves and The British International School of New York where children from both institutions get to experience life in another country while living with a family. n

A FEW TIPS OF OUR OWN Don’t allow your regular routine start to slide just because the holidays are almost here – and don’t let bedtimes creep backwards day by day just because the evenings are lighter for longer. Contact teachers as often as it takes to give you peace of mind that your child is staying on track – after all, this is as important a part of their role as being in the classroom. Go out of your way to show your child that their education is important to you. They are more likely to focus on it and take it seriously if you do. Provide your child with a reason to stay motivated during the run-up to exams – give them a goal and decide on suitable rewards if they achieve it.

Love your heart I was concerned about my heart, especially at my age, so I went for a check up at a HCA Hospital. Now I’m back gardening and playing with the children and would recommend HCA for your heart healthcare and all heart concerns.

For more information about HCA Hospitals’ Heartcare or to book an appointment call 0843 249 7523

HCA Hospitals – World-Class Healthcare www.heartcarelondon.co.uk

Model used for illustrative purposes only

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health&fitness

health & fitness AT A STRETCH Known for its simple silhouettes and key wardrobe staples, Theory has added another string to its ever-so-chic bow with some gymappropriate apparel. The Theory 38 line is ideal for Pilates in the park or a quick jog to Ginger and White, or even just for lounging around on long lazy Sundays. We’ll be sporting the canary-yellow Kortova Surge Sweatshirt teamed with the Aliya K Rowing pants in navy.

From £60-£225, 1 Marylebone High Street, W1U, 020 7985 1188

INSIDE THE BOX The old try-before-you-buy maxim is all very well for a pair of Louboutins, but when it comes to your health and beauty regime, it’s that much harder to know which products are right for you, especially while under the beauty counter spotlight. That’s why we love beautecobox, the beauty subscription box which gives its customers the option of three different treasure troves every month. Prepare to be hooked on exciting new luxury brands such as Meloita and Dr. Bragi.

beautecobox.co.uk

A SMILE LIKE YOURS Having twice won the Private Practice of the Year award and boasting Tim Bradstock-Smith as its principal dentist (the only UK dentist to hold both British and American cosmetic dentistry accreditations) we knew where to head for a touch of teeth whitening. Banish the tell-tale signs of one-too-many skinny frappuccinos and leave with a gleaming set of pearly-white gnashers that will even put Simon Cowell’s to shame.

London Smile Clinic, Threeways House 40-44 Clipstone Street, W1W, 020 7255 2559

TRAVEL

IN MIND Where does our age-old love affair with travel come from? Gemma Knight delves deep into the minds of the experts and attempts to decipher our impulse to explore

health

Ever let the fancy roam, Pleasure never is at home... Open wide the mind’s cage-door, She’ll dart forth, and cloudward soar. – John Keats

You don’t need me to tell you that in our fast-paced modern world, travel is big business. Across the globe, an ever wider selection of luxury hotels and bespoke travel companies are springing up, giving humankind the ability to hand-craft holidays like never before. And whether it’s relaxing by a pool in Jamaica, trekking through the South American jungle, lounging in a Swedish spa or trawling the Venetian galleries, we certainly do love to explore – but why? What is it that drives us (well, most of us) to jet off to far-flung climes as often as our holiday allowance (for those who must abide by it) allows? Australian businesswoman, digital strategist and popular online travel diarist Annabel Candy believes that we all travel for one of five reasons: to challenge ourselves, for new experiences (seeing new places, eating new food, meeting new people, experience new cultures), to find ourselves, to search for fun, or to escape something – and, simple though it sounds, she may well have a point. In a recent study, some 93 per cent of people claimed that their main motivation for going on holiday was to experience somewhere new, although the sudden surge in the popularity of meditation-based travel and relaxation-specific retreats certainly points to our desire to escape something, rather than gain it. As the experts at Islington-based meditation company Headspace will tell you, this desire reflects a wider social trend of busy western city-dwellers craving calm, desperate for a bit of respite from their frantic schedules. “Spirituality is more widely available and more acceptable in the public eye, and tapping into a spiritual awakening [through meditation] can help reduce levels of stress,” says Headspace co-founder Andy Puddicombe, adding that meditating while travelling, in a foreign environment, “allows us to be fully aware and fully awake to all of the sights and sounds of a new destination – smelling every smell, noticing every noise, taking in every moment to really appreciate where we are.” Author of Somebodies and Nobodies, Dr Robert W. Fuller PhD, knows the debate all too well, and though he disagrees with the idea that travel allows us to escape (harking back to the old bumper-sticker favourite “wherever you go, there you are”), he does believe that it helps us to mature and develop, to find our true selves. He says: “I think travel is the great teacher, and the other great teacher is relationships. They’re very similar in that they both confront you with difference. They’re the two ways of discombobulating yourself and forcing your identity to shift suddenly, sometimes completely. You are forced to reconceptualise yourself”.

But whether travel offers us a real chance of escape and self-discovery or not, it certainly seems to play a vital role in maintaining our psychological wellbeing. As Dr Fuller suggests, a change of perspective is important if our lives are to avoid becoming stagnant – between hopping on and off tubes, meeting deadlines, getting dogs walked and children fed, we so rarely get an opportunity to stop and really take stock of our lives and ambitions, so placing ourselves in totally alien environments is all but essential to force us into evaluating our existence. It’s easy to become so engrained in our routines that we simply cease to realise if we are unhappy or unfulfilled. And while the white stretch of sand on a Thai island might have us temporarily tempted to escape into a life of exotic nomadism for good, the very real chance it offers to take an objective look at our lives can only produce long-lasting positive effects. Dr Michael Brein, known globally as ‘the travel psychologist’ and author of the forthcoming book Travel Tales of Michael Brein: My Best 100, strongly believes in the psychological benefits of travel, both as an escape and confrontation. “There’s no question that travel motivates, as both an attraction to the new and an escape from the old,” he says: “It affords replenishment, renewal and rejuvenation…a means towards fulfilling the most high-order human needs, such as self-actualisation, creativity, intellectual needs and aesthetic satisfaction. But at the most basic biological level, we humans are programmed by our very nature to be curious. Curiosity, in turn, generates a discovery of things and ideas that are new. And novelty offers us new solutions to our problems.” And then there are the benefits of travelling with close family or friends since, as Dr Brein asserts, “there is nothing so good as a wonderful shared experience to help forge or cement an existing bond” and thus provide us with more of those close ties upon which we social beings so depend for our emotional health. So it’s official; travel is good for us and, as a result, we love to do it. And let’s not forget, environments that provoke the greatest culture shock are wonderful for making us appreciate the comparative comfort and ease of home, meaning that post-holiday we are able to take pleasure in the small, familiar details of what before seemed monotonous (tinged, of course, with just the tiniest longing to go back to the beach). As British novelist G.K. Chesterton once said: “The object of travel is not to set foot on foreign land; it is at last to set foot on one’s own country”. As far as we’re concerned, a cup of English breakfast tea never tasted so good. n

Headspace, Islington Business Centre 14-22 Coleman Fields, N1 7AD, headspace.com Annabel Candy, getinthehotspot.com Robert W. Fuller, PhD, 2009, Travel to Create Your Self (from Somebodies and Nobodies) psychologytoday.com Michael Brein, michaelbrein.com Michael Brein, 2013, Travel Tales of Michael Brein: My Best 100, Michael Brein, Inc.

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Suits you, Sir Triathlons arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t a sport for the faint hearted. Usually consisting of three disciplines; swimming, running and cycling, it pushes its competitors hard, so avoiding injuries and conditioning your body are important aspects for beginners as well as regular athletes. The Wellington Hospital takes a closer look at a bespoke way of improving sports performance

health promotion

Over the past five years, the boom in triathlon participation has been extraordinary. The London triathlon has seen a 300 per cent increase in competitors with more than 11,000 people taking part last summer. This number seems set to rise following the London Olympics, charity events and the Brownlee brothers’ exploits.

Improvement – Based on our scientific measurements we are able to produce training programmes to improve times, increase strength and develop endurance. We can track improvements in VO2max, anaerobic threshold and other physiological parameters that contribute to improved performance.

The multi-disciplinary nature of the Triathlon makes the training regime varied but also complex. Having a solid base of endurance, strength and flexibility are essential but each discipline has its own techniques which place unique demands on the body. It is important therefore to understand these demands and make sure that your body is strong enough to cope with the training schedule and the race itself. The endurance events and the training required to compete are renowned for causing injury to the unconditioned athlete. At this time of year, sports clinics across the country will be full of post-marathon runners suffering from stress fractures and inflamed tendons with the majority being those who took on the challenge for the first time.

Robustness – Preventable injury often occurs in those with previous sporting injuries, who are exercising for the first time or pushing themselves to a higher level of performance. Triathletes in general have one or two stronger disciplines followed by a ‘weaker’ event. This third discipline is often the cause of training injuries.

This year, 33 first-time marathon runners have come to The Wellington Hospital with stress fractures this year. Using state-of-the-art assessments, we have developed a bespoke screening and exercise prescription service that can be tailored to the specific challenges facing triathletes.The service will provide assessments of strength and conditioning, cardio respiratory function, motion analysis, general health and nutritional status. These scientifically underpinned measurements will then allow our sports and excersice specialists, like Dr. Cathy Spencer-Smith, to provide a bespoke exercise prescription tailored to the triathlete’s goals.

Case Study: ‘Miss X’

For our sport performance service we have classified the focus points into three main areas fitting neatly into the acronym SIR: Safety – Our extensive initial health screen includes cardiorespiratory diagnostics such as ECG, lung function and VO2max testing via gas analysis, which establish that you’re safe to embark on a fitness programme.

The screening service identifies the athlete’s weaknesses, ensuring a level of robustness and minimising the likelihood of injury. This sports performance programme is a bespoke screening service ideal for triathletes but can be tailored to any sport and any level of performance that ‘Suits you SIR’.

A female runner in her 20s, with a good level of fitness, decided to run the London Marathon. New to running, Miss X approached her training with what she thought was a sensible, structured plan to gradually increase her mileage week by week. Two weeks prior to the marathon, she was presented with excruciating ankle pain. Convinced that it was just a soft tissue problem, she tried to keep going. A stress fracture in her calcaneum (heel bone) was diagnosed, and Miss X spent six weeks on crutches with an airboot support. A screening assessment would have identified key biomechanical and training faults enabling Miss X to correct her style, well in advance of the race. Armed with the knowledge of running gait, any muscle imbalances or joint restrictions, a runner can then carry out remedial strengthening and rebalancing work in the build-up to a race. This, combined with sports podiatry, and a personally tailored training plan, would have enabled her to get to the start line in great shape.

GP SESSIONS: Well person screening Dr Lisa Anderson, Private GP at the Platinum Medical Centre, looks at well person screenings Over the last two years, there has been an increase in demand for GPs to carry out well person screenings. What’s interesting about this is the age range of those wishing to schedule a test and the reasons why. Most are between 40-50 years of age and male, and are requesting a bespoke screen tailored to the individual, rather than the standard screens carried out by some of the larger healthcare providers. People that I often see for screening want time to discuss health issues that concern them, both in the present and those that can occur in the future, with the aim of reaching and maintaining good health, while also looking to prevent the development of such disorders as diabetes and coronary artery disease. To start the screening process a detailed medical history, blood tests and other optional investigations are taken and an achievable plan of action is set out, which will often involve a change in lifestyle,

diet and exercise. Through health screening, existing medical conditions can be identified which can then be managed either immediately or over time. It’s also an initial basis to build a strong doctor/patient relationship where, in my GP role, I’ll build up knowledge and understanding of how my patient needs to be supported. Sometimes a problem is encountered that needs urgent referral and I am fortunate to work in St John’s Wood, where I am surrounded by some of the best experts in their fields, who are available to see patients either the same or next day. Similarly, X-rays are available on demand and it is usually possible to obtain a required scan the same day. If you would like more information, please contact Dr Lisa Anderson on 020 7483 5148

For further information or if you’d like to arrange an appointment at The Wellington Hospital, please contact the hospital Enquiry Helpline on 020 7483 5000 or visit www.thewellingtonhospial.com 85

Put this at the top of your To Do list 1 in 8 women in the UK will be diagnosed with breast cancer. Many cases show no symptoms and have no family history of the disease. With The Wellington Hospitalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s digital mammogram technology, abnormalities can be highlighted earlier, allowing for a greater chance of a full recovery. Our breast care service covers the full spectrum of breast management from the diagnosis and treatment of benign and malignant breast disease to breast reconstruction. We offer breast screening, breast awareness demonstrations for concerned woman and a triple assessment clinic for woman with breast symptoms. To make an appointment with our breast care team contact us on 020 7483 5000.

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food&drink

wish list

Love Lock-down Forget shisha and braided bracelets, Camden is following in its neighbouring areas’ footsteps by going all upmarket on us. Cue Camden Lock Fridays (at, you guessed it, Camden Lock Market) aimed at bringing handcrafted design and fresh produce back to the cobbled streets; think fewer streams of backpackwielding, European school children, and more seasoned foodies and cool, creative interior designers. All summer long, Camden Lock will be collaborating with We Make London, a creative organisation that supports British designers as well as City & Country Farmers’ Markets to bring an exciting new taste to the Middle Yard on alternate Fridays of the month. As well as scouring the cool clothes shops for bespoke gems, you’ll find us in the feeders’ corner, hobnobbing between Paul Ireson’s Speakeasy Truffle Company and the wild game Godmersham sausage stall. If that doesn’t tease your taste buds, there are fresh, organic and wholesome foods from around the world in the Global Kitchen.

For confirmed We Make London dates and The City & Country’s Farmers’ Market dates visit camdenlockmarket.com, 020 7485 7963 loveyourlocalmarket.org.uk, weareccfm.com

Foodie favourites HOMEWARD BOUND Following Jeremy Brown’s appointment as executive chef at Home House last year, he is pulling out all the stops for the summer menu. Placing an emphasis on locally sourced and seasonal ingredients, expect scallop carpaccio with pink grapefruit, and wood pigeon with beetroot and pistachio. There’s also a daily specials menu – head there on a Saturday and you can enjoy roast pork belly with apple sauce. Veggies are celebrated too, with an interesting selection of dishes other than your usual green salads. We ordered the vinaigrette of leek and duck egg on toasted sourdough, just for the fun of it.

20 Portman Square, W1H

BON VOYAGE The sun has been out for more than five consecutive minutes so we guess it must be summer. Far more interesting than a boozy beer garden, you’ll find us drifting along Regents Canal. All aboard the floating pop-up bar from The Vestal Voyage team which will be setting sail from the steps of Granary Square on a 50ft classic cruiser-stern Liverpool canal boat named Disco Volante. It’s all a bit hush-hush, so email contact@vestalvodka.com for more info.

BRAVO BABBO DARK HORSE Aside from all the hats and of course, the excitement of cheering on the country’s most talented thoroughbreds, the Bessborough restaurant at Royal Ascot is a haven for seasoned foodies, too. Start the day with some delicious canapés and a glass of Piper Heidsieck before sitting down to mark your card after hearing what the panel has to say. Enjoy a delicious five-course lunch of cold smoked and cured salmon on a bed of cucumber linguine, pickled samphire and ocean pearls with a lobster vinaigrette, followed by a unique Beluga vodka sorbet – and that’s before you’ve even tried the roasted fillet of Angus beef with a Beaufort cheese and lemon thyme crust. If you still have room, why not indulge in an afternoon tea between the third and fourth race.

Fine dining experiences in the Bessborough restaurant start at £570, royalascothospitality.co.uk, 0844 346 0346

We love a bit of cheese. So we were quick to take up Babbo’s invitation to sample its new four-course burrata menu, created by head chef Carlo Scotto. A Caprese starter is followed by homemade tortelli pasta, stuffed with the hero ingredient and served with a sausagey nduja sauce. The main course of beef fillet with spinach, burrata and tapenade pave the way for the sweet and creamy, you guessed it, burrata, with berries for dessert. It’s delicious, but won’t half fill your weekly fromage-quota.

39 Albemarle Street W1S

food&drink

Restaurant Review

Pub Life Kari Rosenberg tries out The Truscott Arms, the newest gastro-pub on the north west London scene

orth west London isn’t short of a gastropub or three. The Spaniards Inn, The Stag, The Old White Bear; I could fill this entire page just listing the various wooden-board-mounted hamburgers that I’ve been served, with great skill and much satisfaction, by the head chefs of these local gems, planted on every other corner from Camden through to Marylebone. The chains are OK (The Old Bull and Bush, The Freemasons Arms), their beer gardens promised to be brimming at the first sight of bank-holiday sunshine, but the food is never quite as good as you remembered it; the duck salad a little dry, the cannelloni a bit flaccid. And while the name is always different you know the authenticity is slightly sub-standard, and thus the experience follows suit. So it was with heightened expectations and a tinge of tedium that I headed to The Truscott Arms, the latest independently-owned pub to open its doors in the leafy suburbs. Based in Maida Vale, head chef Etienne Bruwer (formerly of the Michelin-starred Galvin at Windows) launched the newly named watering-hole earlier this year,

a high-ceilinged, big-windowed Victorian establishment once known as Idlewild. The downstairs ‘pub bit’ is welcoming, filled with natural light on a sunny evening as punters perch on upholstered bar stools, the type you’d never find at a real pub (i.e. The Queen Vic). We head straight upstairs, choosing a decent house red to accompany our meal. It’s hard to choose an appetiser as there aren’t that many options, which isn’t a criticism, just a caution for fusspots. I settled on the soup of the day, a thick potato and parsley potage, which was pleasant enough, but really no better than the M&S version, which left me with a case of beetroot regret, having pondered over the said-vegetable starter. The other half went for the Hansen-Lydersen salmon with cucumber and dill, which was greeted with delight; cut thicker than a smoked deli version (more like a Japanese sashimi) it was smoky, light, fresh and delectable. To follow, we shared the 10oz, 35-day-aged sirloin. Cooked in a water-bath for a few hours, it was perfectly done, and I slathered each unctuous slice with the thick, stunning bordelaise sauce. Foie gras and bone marrow come as optional sides; I went for the latter, expecting a Heston-style, Hinds Head marinade, but instead got a quivering piece of flub, which had I been braver, I may have been able to stomach instead of pushing it around my plate in an attempt to hoodwink the waitress. It tasted like a butcher’s shop and not in a good way. While the menu promised fondant potatoes, we were served slightly underdone new potatoes, which were fine, but, as they should say, potato aint always potaaato. However, it did leave more room for the glorious meat to be devoured in its entirety, followed by a modest but lovely cheeseboard. The food is of a very high standard; the hamburgers are wagyu beef, the sausages gluten-free and 100 per cent pork, the venison biltong produced on-site. The atmosphere is still a bit lacking, although it was a weekday and it’s still early days, so I’ll strike it from my memory, along with the tremoring bone marrow still haunting my gullet. I hope this place will be around for a while, and like a fine wine, will improve with age. As long as duck salad stays off the menu, I’ll be back. n

55 Shirland Road, W9, 020 7266 9198

Jungle Fever

Head chef at the number one restaurant in South America – and sixth best in the world – every ingredient in Alex Atala’s store-cupboard comes from the Amazon. He gives Kari Rosenberg a foraging one-o-one

he first impression I get of Alex Atala – world-renowned chef, botanist and historian – is that of a dreamy Brazilian Santa Claus. I’m watching a YouTube interview titled Rediscovering Brazilian Ingredients, following the announcement that D.O.M – Atala’s world-famous São Paulo eatery – has come sixth in The World’s 50 Best Restaurants this year (having remained a top entry since 2006). He’s also releasing a book of the same name in September. He talks animatedly about “Chhhanting, feeeshing and travelling into the wild” with his father and grandfather, growing up exploring the “Amazoonaas”, foraging for ingredients and cementing his love for both food and adventure. That’s what got him hooked – “[the] link between the world of nature and the man-made cultural world.” His dark eyes light up with excitement against his tanned face and salt-and-pepper

beard, tattooed sleeves peeping out from his immaculate chef’s whites. It’s how he got his first taste for extreme (sometimes six-legged) ingredients, the kinds of which have put D.O.M, since it opened in 1999, firmly on the foodie map. Somehow everything he says sounds strangely erotic. “When people come to D.O.M they have a uniiique – deeep – Braziliaaan experience.” Trained through the 80s and 90s in classical culinary techniques in France and Italy, he decided to combine his European skills with unique Brazilian ingredients, most of which are equally alien to South American natives as they are to north west Londoners. “Back in my home city, native haute cuisine is more Italian and French than Brazilian and traditional family dishes, such as rice and beans, are considered too homely to be served in a top restaurant,” he says. “This is what confronted me on my return from Europe in 1994. I was not going to be able to cook

f o o d & d rxi n xx k

It all started when I found out that there werenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t any kinds of edible mushrooms in the whole country

Photography by Sergio Coimbra

French food as well as the country’s indigenous chefs and that made me look at my own culinary heritage. Many of the ingredients you can buy in the market at Belem do Para (a city on the Amazon delta) are unfamiliar to the majority of Brazilians. I realised that the first step was to subtly educate my local customers into appreciating their indigenous produce. I try to do this by taking native ingredients, which are not used widely in restaurant cooking, and heightening their taste by using classical culinary techniques, like my famous palm heart fettuccine dish. At the heart of my cooking there is the staple mandioca or the pirarucu fish, a huge Amazonian river fish that weighs up to 300kg.” As Brazil’s profile on the world stage continues to grow at a rapid pace, the restaurant scene is also evolving – a “city to watch” according to Atala. Branded an “ambassador of Brazilian flavours and

Photography by Sergio Coimbra

culinary arts” his goal is to put the ingredients of his homeland onto the global food stage. And while his list of weird and wonderful discoveries must be endless, he seems most surprised by the lack of mushrooms readily available, a revelation which spurred his thirst for discovery. “It all started when I found out that there weren’t any kind of edible mushrooms in the whole country! That’s why I hooked up with anthropologists and scientists here, who are trying to discover and classify new products, including foods from the Amazon region. “I visit the local tribes quite regularly. One of my favourite discoveries is a fragrant Amazonian root called priprioca. The natives here use it as a scent rather than for food. So, I decided to use it like an essence. With the help of a perfumer, I developed an extract that I can use in both savoury and sweet dishes. Its aroma is so intensely herbal…similar to marijuana, but without the effects!” Atala is keen to raise awareness about indigenous Brazilian food, both at home and abroad through encouraging the development of sustainable, environmentally-friendly methods of farming new products, while at the same time protecting the rainforest and the vulnerability of its tribes. Between 80-90 per cent of his food is locally sourced. “We use plenty of ingredients from the Amazon and the only ‘non-local’ ingredient is perhaps olive oil. We have been using these ingredients every day for more than ten years now. This appears to have inspired a new generation of chefs, as well as demand in the market. In that way, indigenous people and small producers have been largely supported.” He is behind the Retratos do Gosto label that commercialises Brazilian ingredients (with the same control concept as fair trade) alongside ISA (The Social Environmental Institute), an NGO organised by

food&drink

Food, clockwise from top left: Green tomato gel; Brazil nut tart with whisky ice cream, curry, chocolate, salt, rocket and pepper; mushroom consommé with herbs from the forest and garden; banana, lime and priprioca caramel ravioli; heart of palm fettuccine with butter, sage and popcorn powder

anthropologists who work in the Amazon region with the native Baniwas and Tucanos people. At the moment he’s focussing on fresh-water salt (“a tradition that was disappearing”), on ants that have “lemongrass and ginger flavours” and researching the cultural use of local chillies and manioc root. “A significant development has been the discovery of a new variety of wild palm [called] pupugna, perfectly adapted for farming,” he says. “Normally palms take six years to grow and you can get only 700g of heart from a single palm. The new palm takes only two years to grow, and as it has several different shoots, it can be harvested at different times so that the tree doesn’t die. Each heart weighs about two kilograms and, unlike other palms, it can be served raw as well as cooked. Following my signature dish, palm heart fettuccine is now sold in supermarkets.” He’s fascinated by “the food created by chefs. They tend to create dishes that transcend cultural barriers… Sometimes, do not be deceived by what your eyes are telling you” but he enjoys the everyday stuff too, and still can’t resist the temptation of a mortadella sandwich at the local market. You won’t find creepy-crawlies and perfumes in his fridge either. Instead he likes “citrus fruit, fish, herbs, vegetables and pepper” and a normal breakfast would be coffee with milk and bread with butter (so no crunchy-nut cockroach, then?). “[It’s] very simple but you have different contrasts of flavour and texture: hot, cold, sweet, salty, soft…unctuous!” And if he could eat only one thing all day, it would be John Dory “I live for and crave San Pietro [another name for the fish].” Having rocketed from relative anonymity to a culinary sensation, he is dealing with the pressure of the limelight well. “Inside the kitchen I love the pressure and need to be perfect at speed” and he doesn’t appear uncomfortable with his new celebrity status. “Being a celebrity is not essential, but I am happy to contribute by doing my bit in society. More than being a celebrity, I gained respect, which is even better.” A former DJ, he is inspired by music and likens his native food to samba, saying he often “becomes inspired by Heitor Villa-Lobos” who was a Brazilian composer, described as the single most significant creative figure in 20th-century Brazilian art music. But he insists he has no rock star pretensions, and would choose a ‘humble’ profession if, of course, he wasn’t a world-famous chef. “I’d probably be one of the Marvel Fantastic Four,” he jokes. Mr. Fantastic, I can only presume? n

In September Phaidon will publish D.O.M Rediscovering Brazilian Ingredients with Alex Atala, £35. There will be an international book tour with Alex Atala in October and November. phaidon.com

Left Sitting

Courtside?

Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a professional or amateur, conditions and injuries affecting your hand and wrists, shoulders, knees and back can have a major impact on your enjoyment of tennis. If you find yourself sitting courtside, speak to your GP who can refer you to see an orthopaedic specialist. Led by eminent consultants, The Wellington Hospital offers a range of orthopaedic services to help you return to the court. Call us today and get that injury seen to

020 7483 5000

www.thewellingtonhospital.com

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Emperor’s Club As they say, the devil is in the detail. While we may think it’s easy to administer our own travel plans, with first-class flights and five-star hotels just a few clicks away, we have busy lives, and specifics can go unchecked. That’s where travel and lifestyle private members’ club Nota Bene Global comes in rather handy. Members have access to a digital portal of reviews in the world’s most sought-after destinations as well as an unlimited travel booking service. ‘Bespoke’ is the fastest-growing top-tier service (starting at £15,000 per annum) and covers everything from the welcome amenities at the best suite; to the prime table at the finest eatery; chartering the most glamorous yacht to 24-hour chauffeurs. Your holiday starts now.

notabeneglobal.com

TRAVEL in style HOT SPOT

in June

Kalkan, Turkey Rediscover the south coast of this eclectic transcontinental gem for a holiday bursting with sun, sea and traditional Turkish flair

why

This old fishing town on Turkey’s Lycian Coast is a rare example of unspoilt Mediterranean beauty. Dotted with white-washed buildings and boasting an impressive 300 days of sunshine each year, the town’s ancient architecture and excellent choice of accommodation has a reputation for luring even the most elegant of jet-setters.

stay

The Glasshouse is an airy, exquisite four-bedroom villa overlooking the sea (so close, in fact, as to have its own private jetty) and is filled with classic, vibrant furniture collected from the Middle East, Africa and Indonesia. With two swimming pools, a Jacuzzi, cinema and small gym, guests who like to keep busy are certainly spoilt for choice – luckily for those of us who’d rather relax with our thoughts, the property’s fountain, waterfall, wide terrace and panoramic sea views offer endless scope for peaceful sunset musing over a chilled glass of raki. simpsonexclusive.com

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WATERY WONDERS INDULGENCE BY DESIGN Luxury chain Design Hotels has selflessly committed itself to soothing and spoiling us this summer, and we couldn’t be happier. Of the six spa retreats on offer, our favourite is the extraordinary Loisium Wine & Spa Resort in the wine-producing region of Langenlois, Austria, where guests can indulge in a range of therapies (think Finnish saunas, amethyst steam baths and organic algae, pepper and caffeine facials) while sampling some of lower Austria and southern Styria’s best tipples. Spa treatments and award-winning wines you say? Count us in. designhotels.com

JE NE SAIS QUOI St Tropez’ bijoux Pan Deï Palais hotel has been delighting visitors to the French Riviera for years, reinventing itself every summer to give returning guests a totally new experience while retaining the exceptional service and sumptuous surrounds they know and love. We’ve been given a sneak peak of what’s in store this year, and with boat trips, exotic picnics, cutting-edge Swiss spa treatments and performances from a world-renowned artistic troupe, we’re willing to bet this summer will be the best so far. pandei.com

SHORT HAUL: Spitbank Fort, UK Perched in the middle of the Solent, Spitbank Fort has a long and glorious history – the most recent chapter of which saw it transformed into a wonderful little spa hotel. Now offering short breaks to its luxury suites, the Fort gives guests the chance to stay overnight in truly unique surroundings while being treated all but constantly to Champagne, canapés and breathtaking nautical panoramas. spitbankfort.com

LONG HAUL: Soneva in Aqua, the Maldives It’s tantalisingly close now – in January 2014, luxury Maldives resort Soneva Fushi will unveil its new ‘boatvilla’, an ultralavish yacht designed to carry up to four guests while offering all the benefits of a private charter. Equipped with a chef, butler, dive instructor and spa therapist, plus generous suites, sun and dining decks, a Jacuzzi and on-board bar, spend days lounging in the sun and nights stargazing beneath crystal-clear skies, expertly-made cocktail in hand. soneva.com/soneva-in-aqua

The Restorative Power of

La RĂŠserve Pandora Jones discovers the benefits of detoxifying, pampering and indulgent dining, Swiss style, on the beautiful banks of Lake Geneva

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any of us think nothing of zipping across to Geneva to hit the slopes during the winter months – it becomes almost a second commute for some – but few think to make the trip in summer. Now I’m not suggesting summer skiing, but rather skipping the Alpine transfer altogether and staying next to Lake Geneva for a soothing spa break. La Réserve Genève Hotel is just three miles from Geneva Airport, resulting in an unbelievably short transfer to the hotel, which is a world apart (as you’d hope!) from the nearby airport. In fact, La Réserve is a world apart from any hotel you can imagine in Switzerland or even in Europe. Honestly, I’d go every weekend if I could; it was just so civilised. I was informed by a lovely staff member, when I enquired, that ten years ago, designer Jacques Garcia based his transformation of La Réserve on the hotel’s name. Taking inspiration from it (and adding a touch of his own sense of humour), he created an interior decoration scheme that parodies a game reserve. Flaming torches frame the entrance way and the dark red lobby is decorated with exotic bird lamps, large frames full of butterflies, and a giant elephant sculpture. The result is most easily compared to an African safari lodge – only, perhaps, a little bolder and more playful. The other (crucial) part of the hotel is its spa – a wonderful, subtle fragrance filled the air as I passed it on the way to my room – and it provides quite a contrast. Although part of the same building, there are no leopard-print carpets, leather-studded armchairs or African artworks when you venture down the stairs to the spa. The pool has timber, lodge-like columns and soft lighting is in sympathy with pastel-coloured velvet cushions and curving archways; this is where my stay was focused. On the evening of my arrival, before going down to supper, I indulged in a foot and leg massage, which seemed like a reasonable reward for enduring a flight (even though only a short one hour, 20 minute one). Blissed out and totally relaxed, it set the scene for the weekend. The next morning I opted for the temptinglynamed Swiss Bliss Caviar Body treatment (an hour-and-a-half) followed by the Swiss Bliss Caviar Firming Facial. As you’d expect, both made use of wonderful oils and took place in luxurious treatment rooms, with heated couches and fluffy white towels. From the moment I stepped into the spa I felt utterly cosseted; everything was fully explained and after every treatment I was taken back to the lounge area where there’s a ‘bar’ (no alcohol of course) offering dried fruits, nuts and exotic (and numerous) teas. You’re encouraged to drink plenty of water and given a bottle after every treatment. In the afternoon, I tried the fabulous De-stressing La Réserve Massage (at an indulgently lengthy one hour, 50 minutes); it did exactly what was promised in its name. In terms of sport, if you opt to take some exercise rather than spending 100 per cent of your time on pampering, personal training sessions last for an hour. You also have the option to go swimming (indoors or out), play tennis and take part in gym classes, ranging

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from yoga to abs-exercises. But the majority of your time will be spent lying horizontal as you are scrubbed, massaged and wrapped into shape. I must confess, despite my best intentions (and bringing my gym kit), I found myself once again, yes, horizontal, having a manicure and pedicure. These were done simultaneously and, due to the fact I was lying on a couch and utterly relaxed, I fell asleep (surely a regular occurence). Whatever your goal, detoxifying is always the first step at La Réserve and this includes the food. Healthy snacks are served all day and the restaurant menus include items for the slimming programme (helpfully labelled with a feather). If you’re on the Better Aging Programme, as the friends I made in the spa were, wheat, dairy, sugar, alcohol, coffee and red meat are all off-limits, but with two courses for lunch, three for dinner (including apple crumble for pudding, no less) and as many smoothies as you like, this is hardly deprivation. The basic principle is what is known as a ‘disassociated diet’, which means carbohydrates at lunchtime and protein for dinner. The advice of the nutritionist, much discussed in the spa, centres around the puritanical verdict that “if you want to keep the intestine clean, you should avoid dairy products because they bring the most pollution to the body, as well as cutting out white bread and refined sugar.” However, to my delight and my new friends’ envy, I wasn’t on the regime and opted for sometimes healthy, sometimes.... less so! French restaurant Le Loti was exceptional; I highly recommend the scallops and the wagyu beef. It’s also worth sampling Swiss wine; it was even better than I expected (I love Swiss wine). The fish from Lake Leman in Geneva was also delicious. A great place for lunch was Le Tsé Fung, where I had superb dim sum with a refreshing Chinese beer. The Chinese chefs and Swiss waiting staff were extremely serene, but make sure you reserve ahead of your meal. Now, despite the temptation to hibernate, guests are by no means restricted to the spa, or indeed the hotel, and Lake Geneva brings plenty of outdoor pursuit options, from windsurfing and sailing to city trips. La Réserve’s complimentary water transfer takes you to and from the city centre in a speedboat made of dark mahogany (very James Bond). Many Genevans use the water transfer to glide across for dinner at Le Tsé Fung and Le Loti (I can vouch for why they’d do so). I’ve been lucky enough to stay in a fair few places in my time but La Réserve is somewhere I’d return to in an instant, if only to capture that rare feeling of utter relaxation for a few more hours.

MORE INFORMATION La Réserve Genève Hotel and Spa offers the Four Day Better Aging Programme from CHF 5,300, which includes four nights’ accommodation in a superior room, all consultations and treatments and three meals a day at Café Lauren. lareserve.ch

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Hail

Columbia Gabriel Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Rorke heads to Sofitel Legend, Santa Clara Cartagena and soaks up some Columbian history, bath-pearls and 90 per cent humidity

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“I

t’s a four-and-a-half hour transfer to the hotel,” says my guide Nico, as we pull out of Cartagena Airport. He must have noticed my eyes well up because he quickly broke into a smile: “It’s ten minutes, no more, I was joking! Ten minutes maximum!” I shared his smile. Jet-lag and jokes never made great company. “You’re going to the best hotel in town,” Nico continued, trying to make amends. “You will love it.” Sure enough, within a few minutes we entered the city walls and pulled up alongside a rusty-red building. Rising up from the cobbled streets, Santa Clara is a textbook colonial monastery with high walls and windows above eye level. Built in 1621 for a sisterhood of French nuns, the long stone corridors and wide courtyards now go by the name of the Sofitel Legend Santa Clara. Passing through the arched entranceway I follow in the footsteps of many a famous face: previous guests include the Chilean and Mexican presidents, Saudi royalty, Columbian novelist Gabriel García Márquez (whose house is right next door) and singer songwriter Shakira. A porter in French-style attire bids me “bonjour” as I enter the leafy courtyard and I exhale that sigh of relief that comes with having finally arrived. Deciding to take my first afternoon slowly, I dropped my bags in my room and headed to the spa. Looking through the menu, one treatment stood out above the rest. “Now, this is one way I don’t mind spending four-and-a-half hours,” I thought to myself. Yes, it’s a four-and-a-half hour spa treatment. The cogs in my mind started turning, searching for the reason why I just had to have it. It’s called Pearl of a Bride and I am getting married later this year, so surely it was meant to be. One of the best things about So Spa was that sitting on the reception desk was a large glass vase filled with nuggets of dark chocolate. I nibbled on these, putting a few in my pocket just in case I needed sustenance half-way through my spa-athon. After a hamam and full body exfoliation using pearl extracts – the pearls literally melted into my skin – I was taken to Cleopatra’s Bath. Who knew Cleopatra had a penchant for massage jets and two-foot-high bubbles? In no mood to be facetious, I slipped in with a long sigh. Next came a massage and facial, and last but not least I am polished with a mani-pedi. It’s amazing how quickly four hours can pass. Relaxed into oblivion, I have only one thing on my mind: sleep. The next morning started with breakfast in the leafy courtyard in the company of one very chirpy toucan. Santa Clara’s feathered friend in residence created a colourful splash as he flew over the Fernando Botero sculpture, cocking his head as if politely asking for a bite of your croissant. Meeting Nico in the square in front of the hotel, I headed off for a city tour. Our first stop was outside the city walls (which stretch 11km around it) and the highest part of the city, the Convent of La Popa. “When the Spanish arrived in the 16th century they thought they had arrived in India,” Nico tells us.

The buildings are painted in colourful hues, many with wooden overhanging balconies covered in bright bougainvillea “So they called the locals Indians. That’s why today the city is called Cartagena de Indias.” We pass San Sebastián Bay, the coastal area home to some of the city’s smartest houses and Nico points out Boca Grande, the main waterway for entering ships. “A wall was built under the water to block the way because there were problems with pirates, but today we have cruise ships not pirate ships. Around 200 come past in the season on their way up the Panama Canal to Panama City.” We pass a flock of pelicans resting on a shipwreck just offshore. Then a replica of an 18th-century ship bobs into view. We are told that the original sits 300m deep under the sea, filled with gold, silver and emeralds too deep to reach. Finally we reach the monastery. Built in 1606 on Spanish orders, it is still home to four priests who inhabit the first floor, while tourists mill around the cloisters underneath, admiring the fine views over the city. As well as monasteries (today 90 per cent of Colombians are Catholic) there are lots of forts in Cartagena. These were needed to defend against pirate attacks. We stopped at Felipe Fort, an especially impressive construction built in the late 1700s using slave labour. The gold, blue and red Colombian flag blew in the wind above the fortifications; the gold, unsurprisingly, signifies gold, while the blue symbolises the ocean and red the blood of heroes lost in revolution. Walking around in

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the sun in 90 per cent humidity began to get the better of me, and I was glad to head back to the walled city. First, we quickly stopped off at Las Bóvedas, a series of vaults that were originally built as dungeons but today house boutiques selling clothes, pottery, and most importantly, emeralds. Resisting the temptation to splurge on these beautiful green gems, I returned to Santa Clara, grabbed my book and bunkered in on a sun-lounger by the pool. That evening, I headed for supper at the hotel’s fine French-inspired fine-dining restaurant, 1621. One of Cartagena’s finest sommelier filled my glass with merlot as I devoured delicious octopus carpaccio, risotto with langoustines, and chocolate pudding served in a dark chocolate shell with melted chocolate poured all over. My last day was dedicated to exploring the old city on foot. Separated by cobbled streets, the buildings are painted in colourful hues, many with wooden overhanging balconies covered in bright bougainvillea. This is a travellers’ haven, the sort of place that draws in both the bulky-backpack and Louis Vuitton sets. For a final lunch I headed to VERA restaurant, part of the boutique Tcherassi Hotel. Stepping away from the humid hustle and bustle, I passed through the iron gate and felt like I’d landed on Mykonos. White floors, white walls and white beams were separated by brick columns lining an al-fresco seating area. Water cascaded over a glass window into a pool, white roses stood tall in vases and crisp table clothes blew in the breeze. I started with an unusual but exquisite strawberry, almond, goat’s cheese and spinach salad followed by red snapper in a butter sauce with artichoke mash and watercress. For pudding it was chocolate ice cream, surrounded by calendula and chamomile petals with white chocolate cream. Revelling in this blissful escapism, I ordered an espresso, unable to break the magic quite yet. n

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more information Journey Latin America specialises in tailor-made holidays and group tours to Latin America and Antarctica. A five-day stay at the Santa Clara costs from ÂŁ1,410 per person. This price includes flights from London Heathrow to Cartagena via Bogota, transfers and breakfast daily. For further information, contact Journey Latin America (020 3432 1578, journeylatinamerica.co.uk)

listing See below for estate agents in YOUR area

Arlington Residential 8 Wellington Road, NW8 9SP 020 7722 3322 arlingtonresidential.co.uk

Ian Green Residential De Walden House, Allitsen Road St Johns Wood, NW8 7BA 020 7586 1000

Marsh & Parsons 35 Maida Vale, W9 1TP 020 7368 4458 marshandparsons.co.uk

iangreenresidential.com

Aston Chase 69 / 71 Park Road, NW1 6XU 020 7724 4724 astonchase.com

Parkheath 208 Haverstock Hill, NW3 2AG 020 7431 1234 Jones Lang LaSalle 30 Warwick Street, W1B 5NH 020 7087 5557 joneslanglasalle.co.uk

8a Canfield Gardens, NW6 3BS 020 7625 4567 192 West End Lane, NW6 1SG 020 7794 7111 parkheath.com

Bargets 16 Park Road, NW1 4SH 020 7402 9494

Kay & Co Hyde Park & Bayswater office 24-25 Albion Street, W2 2AX 020 7262 2030

bargets.co.uk

Marylebone & Regents Park office 20a Paddington Street, W1U 5QP 020 7486 6338

Fox Gregory 102-104 Allitsen Road St John’s Wood, NW8 7AY 020 7586 1500

propertydivas.com

kayandco.com

foxgregory.co.uk

Hamptons International 99 St John’s Wood Terrace, NW8 6PL 020 7717 5319

Knight Frank 5-7 Wellington Place, NW8 7PB 020 7586 2777

Rescorp Residential 58 Acacia Road, St John’s Wood NW8 6AG 020 3348 8000 rescorp.co.uk

79-81 Heath Street, NW3 6UG 020 7431 8686

21 Heath street, NW3 6TR 020 7717 5301

120a Mount Street, W1K 3NN 020 7483 8349

hamptons.co.uk

knightfrank.co.uk

Savills 7 Perrin’s Court NW3 1QS 020 7472 5000

Hanover Residential 102 St. John’s Wood Terrace, NW8 6PL 020 7722 2223

Laurence Leigh 020 7483 0101

15 St John’s Wood High Street NW8 7NG 020 3043 3600

hanover-residential.com

laurenceleigh.com

savills.co.uk

RUNWILD M

Property Divas Limited 34a Rosslyn Hill, Hampstead NW3 1NH 020 7431 8000

If you would like to appear within the property pages of VANTAGE, contact Felicity Morgan-Harvey, property manager, on 020 7987 4320 or f.morgan-harvey@runwildgroup.co.uk

Vantage P R O P E RT Y

showcasing the

finest HOMES & PROPERTY from the best estate agents

Signs of

summer

Exclusive properties & homes for families

Image: Courtesy of Hamptons

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KnightFrank.co.uk

Wedderburn Road, Hampstead NW3 Seven bedroom house in Hampstead Village

An exceptional Victorian house with off street parking for two cars and a fantastic mature 143â&#x20AC;&#x2122; walled garden. Master bedroom with en suite bathroom and dressing room, 6 further bedrooms (2 with en suite bathrooms), family bathrooms, kitchen/breakfast room, drawing room, dining room, family room, rear garden, studio, balcony. EPC rating E. Approximately 621 sq m (6,689 sq ft) Freehold Guide price: ÂŁ8,750,000 (HAM120208)

KnightFrank.co.uk/Hampstead hampstead@knightfrank.com 020 7431 8686

KnightFrank.co.uk

Redington Road, Hampstead NW3

Imposing double fronted detached house with a sensational garden One of the finest south west facing gardens (164â&#x20AC;&#x2122; or 50m) in Redington Road. The house provides exceptional family accommodation and also benefits from a carriage driveway. Master bedroom with en suite bathroom and dressing room, 5 further bedrooms (all with en suites, 1 with balcony), 2 kitchens, dining room, drawing room, guest WC, family room, guest WC, family room, gymnasium, wine cellar. EPC Rating E. Approximately 680 Sq m (6,545 sq ft) Freehold Guide price: ÂŁ11,950,000 (HAM110018)

KnightFrank.co.uk/Hampstead hampstead@knightfrank.com 020 7431 8686

KnightFrank.co.uk

Randolph Avenue, Maida Vale W9

Family home with beautiful garden and off street parking Situated in an attractive tree lined street in Little Venice lies this beautiful semi-detached house with an impressive south westerly facing garden. 5 bedrooms, 3 reception rooms, 2 bathrooms. EPC rating E. Approximately 276.09 sq m (2,968 sq ft)

KnightFrank.co.uk/st-johns-wood stjohnswood@knightfrank.com 0207 586 2777

Freehold Guide price: ÂŁ3,750,000 (SJW120043)

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KnightFrank.co.uk

St Katharine’s Precinct, Regent’s Park NW1 Magnificent Grade II* listed house

A stately Gothic home with period architecture, modern interiors and a contemporary specification in a secluded enclave in Regent’s Park. 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, 6 reception rooms, kitchen, garden, off street parking. Approximately 574.4 sq m (6,183 sq ft)

KnightFrank.co.uk/st-johns-wood stjohnswood@knightfrank.com 020 7586 2777

Leasehold: approximately 117 years 7 months Guide price: £13,750,000 (SJW120168)

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Luxury developer Seqoya are delighted to announce

• The Vertice penthouse provides 3,728 sq ft

the launch of two of London’s most outstanding

(346 sq m) of luxurious living space over

penthouses. Located in a prime St John’s Wood

three floors, with 980 sq ft (91 sq m) of

address, close to both Regent’s Park and

private terraces.

Primrose Hill, these spectacular penthouses offer panoramic views over central London. a lUXURY DeVeloPMent BY

• The Hyperion penthouse has 3,396 sq ft (316 sq m) of luxurious living space over two floors, and 736 sq ft (68 sq m) of private terraces.

PRice on APPLicAtion

cGi images for illustrative purposes only

LonDon PentHoUSeS

Actual view from penthouses

Joint sole selling agents

Savills Hampstead 7 Perrinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Court London NW3 1QS hampstead@savills.co.uk

020 7472 5000

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ELM TREE ROAD ST JOHN’S WOOD NW8 £5,950,000 FREEHOLD/TO LET £4,250 PER WEEK A tranquilly situated five bedroom non-basement period house (287.6sq m/3,096sq ft) providing well-panned family accommodation arranged over three floors only. The property has been recently refurbished to an exceptionally high standard throughout featuring an outstanding principal bedroom suite, private walled and courtyard gardens, roof terrace and an integral garage. Elm Tree Road is a highly sought after road located within close proximity to the stylish boutiques and restaurants of St John’s Wood High Street and within 0.5 miles of St John’s Wood Underground Station (Jubilee Line). ACCOMMODATION AND AMENITIES Principal Bedroom Suite incorporating Bedroom, Sitting Area/Study, Dressing Room and En-Suite Bathroom, 4 Further Bedrooms, 2 Further Bathrooms, Shower Room (En-Suite), Reception Room incorporating Dining Area, Fully Fitted Kitchen, Study, Utility Room, Plant Room, Roof Terrace, Courtyard Garden, Private Walled Garden, Integral Garage. EPC/D. SOLE AGENT

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REGENT’S PARK OFFICE 69–71 PARK ROAD LONDON NW1 6XU T –020 7724 4724 F –020 7724 6160

SPRINGFEILD ROAD ST JOHN’S WOOD NW8 £4,850,000 FREEHOLD A charming five bedroom semi-detached period house (295sq m/3,181sq ft) presented in excellent condition throughout. The house features well-planned accommodation over four floors including a delightful conservatory leading directly onto a 40ft southerly facing landscaped rear garden. Springfield Road is one of the most sought after roads on the west side of St John’s Wood located within close proximity of The American School in London, St John’s Wood Underground Station (Jubilee Line) and within 0.5 miles of the local shopping amenities and restaurants of St John’s Wood High Street. ACCOMMODATION AND AMENITIES Principal Bedroom with En Suite Bathroom & Walk-In Wardrobe, 4 Further Bedrooms (1 En-Suite), Family Bathroom, Shower Room, 31ft Reception/Dining Room, Kitchen/Family Room, Large Conservatory, Study, TV Room/Bedroom 5, Guest Cloakroom, Utility Room, Garden Store, Front Garden, Southerly Facing Rear Garden, Resident’s Only Permit Parking, EPC/E. JOINT SOLE AGENT

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THE PORTLAND HALLAM STREET W1 £8,500,000 LEASEHOLD A luxurious and beautifully presented four bedroom duplex in an impressive Grade II Listed portered building. One of only four in the building, the apartment features high ceilings and is finished to a superb standard. The apartment provides excellent entertaining space and features two private terraces. Hallam Street is located between Portland Place and Great Portland Street in Marylebone. The property is well located for access to Marylebone High Street, the West End and Regent’s Park. The closest underground stations are Oxford Circus and Regent’s Park. ACCOMMODATION AND AMENITIES Entrance Hall, Open Plan Reception Room incorporating a TV Area & Dining Room, Contemporary Open-Plan Kitchen leading onto a Private Patio, Principal Bedroom with Dressing Room, En-Suite Bathroom & Patio, 3 Further En-Suite Bedrooms, Study, Shower Room, Utility Room, Porter, Hand Cut Inlaid Marble Floors to Entrance Hall, Crestron Home Automation, Bespoke Sweeping Sculptural Staircase, Handcrafted Joinery throughout. EPC/C. JOINT SOLE AGENT

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REGENT’S PARK OFFICE 69–71 PARK ROAD LONDON NW1 6XU T –020 7724 4724 F –020 7724 6160

E IC ED PR UC D RE

KENDALLS HALL HAMPSTEAD NW3 £3,950,000 SHARE OF FREEHOLD An architecturally designed triplex apartment (300sq m/3,231sq ft) discreetly hidden behind a Grade II Listed exterior in the heart of Hampstead Village. Intelligently remodelled and refurbished to an extremely high standard, the apartment provides spacious and flexible family accommodation over three floors, further benefitting from a wealth of modern amenities and several bespoke design additions including a stunning central cantilevered staircase in solid oak and hammered bronze. ACCOMMODATION AND AMENITIES Principal Bedroom with Dressing Room & En-Suite Bathroom, 4 Further Bedrooms, 2 Further Bathrooms (En-Suite), Shower Room (En-Suite), Family Bathroom, Reception Room incorporating Study Area, Open-Plan Kitchen incorporating Dining Room, TV Room, Guest Cloakroom, Utility Room, Plant Room, Sonos Home Control System, Under Floor Heating throughout, Demised External Storage Room, South-Facing Landscaped Patio Garden, Porterage, Communal Gymnasium, Secure Allocated Parking for One Car. EPC/H. JOINT SOLE AGENT

Highfield Mews NW6 ÂŁ1,700,000

Within an exclusive gated mews development in the South Hampstead Conservation Area, a bright raised and lower ground floor maisonette.

1840 sq ft/170 sq m 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms 20 ft reception, 17â&#x20AC;&#x2122;9 kitchen/diner 19 ft balcony, 23 ft garden Private parking

With private garden and balcony, there is direct access to a garage from the apartment.

Contact South Hampstead Office 020 7625 4567

South Hampstead Sales 020 7625 4567 Lettings 020 7644 0800 nw6@parkheath.com

Belsize Park Sales 020 7431 1234 Lettings 020 7431 3104 nw3@parkheath.com

West Hampstead Sales 020 7794 7111 Lettings 020 7794 7111 192@parkheath.com

Property Management Tel 020 7722 6777 pm@parkheath.com

www.parkheath.com

Chatsworth Road NW2 ÂŁ1,999,950

A substantial detached family house with 112 ft south-west facing garden, together with private parking and garage. Positioned on the border road of the Mapesbury Estate near excellent transport links, and within the Malorees school catchment area.

3489 sq ft/324 sq m 6 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms 2 receptions plus conservatory 22 ft kitchen/breakfast room Garage plus OSP for 3 cars Contact West Hampstead Office 020 7794 7111

South Hampstead Sales 020 7625 4567 Lettings 020 7644 0800 nw6@parkheath.com

Belsize Park Sales 020 7431 1234 Lettings 020 7431 3104 nw3@parkheath.com

West Hampstead Sales 020 7794 7111 Lettings 020 7794 7111 192@parkheath.com

Property Management Tel 020 7722 6777 pm@parkheath.com

www.parkheath.com

Haverstock Hill NW3 ÂŁ1,395,000

In central Belsize Park a large raised and lower ground floor maisonette with private terrace and garden. Moments from shops, cafes and transport links, and with forecourt parking.

1567 sq ft/146 sq m 4/5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms 18 ft reception, 19 ft kitchen/diner 20 ft terrace, 30 ft garden Parking space Contact Belsize Park Office 020 7431 1234

South Hampstead Sales 020 7625 4567 Lettings 020 7644 0800 nw6@parkheath.com

Belsize Park Sales 020 7431 1234 Lettings 020 7431 3104 nw3@parkheath.com

West Hampstead Sales 020 7794 7111 Lettings 020 7794 7111 192@parkheath.com

Property Management Tel 020 7722 6777 pm@parkheath.com

www.parkheath.com

Pond Street NW3 ÂŁ1,695,000

Moments from Hampstead Heath and forming part of an attractive period house, a spacious triplex apartment of considerable style. Multiple nearby facilities in Hampstead Village, Belsize Park and South End Green.

2354 sq ft/218 sq m 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms 25ft main reception, 2nd reception Double-tiered patio Share of freehold Contact Belsize Park Office 020 7431 1234

South Hampstead Sales 020 7625 4567 Lettings 020 7644 0800 nw6@parkheath.com

Belsize Park Sales 020 7431 1234 Lettings 020 7431 3104 nw3@parkheath.com

West Hampstead Sales 020 7794 7111 Lettings 020 7794 7111 192@parkheath.com

Property Management Tel 020 7722 6777 pm@parkheath.com

www.parkheath.com

blomfield road l i t t l e

V e n i c e

A newly refurbished house locAted in the heArt of little Venice oVerlooking the regents cAnAl. the house hAs been renoVAted throughout to An exceptionAl stAndArd with AccommodAtion comprising: two reception rooms, lArge reception hAll, kitchen/dining AreA, mAster bedroom suite comprising bedroom, dressing AreA, shower room And terrAce, two further double bedrooms, one bAthroom, one shower room, lArge terrAce leAding to lAwned gArden, off street pArking for two cArs. epc rAting d

AVAilAble for rentAl ÂŁ2,500 per week

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A beAutifully presented top floor (2nd floor) ApArtment providing 1741 sq ft / 162 sq m of AccommodAtion. the ApArtment forms pArt of A hAndsome detAched double-fronted house, And is locAted in A quiet tree-lined roAd A few moments from the entrAnce to primrose hill pArk.

3 bedrooms, 2 bAthrooms, 1 shower room, reception room, kitchen/ breAkfAst room. epc rAting e sole Agent price ÂŁ2,300,000

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102 St John’s Wood Terrace, St John’s Wood, London NW8 6PL

t: 020 7722 2223 e: info@hanover-residential.com w: hanover-residential.com

Hamilton Close, St John’s Wood, NW8

£995,000

An immaculate house situated on this cobbled mews. The property boasts two double bedrooms, two bathroom (one en-suite), internal garage with utility area, separate kitchen, wood flooring, reception room with fire place and one parking space. Hamilton Close is within located close to Maida Vale and St Johns Wood tube stations, Lords Cricket Ground and the open spaces of Regents Park.

Principal Agent

Long Leasehold

EYRE COURT, ST JOHNâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S WOOD, NW8

ÂŁ2,150,000

A very bright and well presented three bedroom, three bathroom apartment (1,665 sq ft / 155 sq m) set on the fifth floor of this prestigious mansion block with 24 hour porterage. Features of this property include a large double reception room and eat-in kitchen/breakfast room with delightful westerly views. Eyre Court is a highly regarded luxury block set behind a large carriage driveway offering parking on a first come first served basis. The block is located moments from St Johns Wood High Street and is directly opposite the underground station (Jubilee Line).

Sole Agent

Share of Freehold

102 St John’s Wood Terrace, St John’s Wood, London NW8 6PL

t: 020 7722 2223 e: info@hanover-residential.com w: hanover-residential.com

SANDRINGHAM COURT, MAIDA VALE, W9

£1,200,000

An exceptionally spacious three double bedroom, two bathroom apartment situated on the second floor of this well maintained desirable mansion block with a lift, porter and communal gardens. The property is in need of some modernisation and comprises a large entrance/dining hall, reception room with Juliet balcony, kitchen, principal bedroom with built in wardrobes and en-suite bathroom, second double bedroom with built in wardrobes and dressing room which has plumbing installed to convert in to a good size en-suite, third double bedroom with built in wardrobes and a family bathroom.

Sole Agent

Leasehold

OSLO COURT, ST JOHN’S WOOD, NW8

£625,000 for each apartment

Two apartments located on the fifth floor in Oslo Court (543 sq ft/50 sq m) featuring breath-taking views over Regent’s Park. These one bedroom apartments are in need of some modernisation and feature separate kitchen and balconies, whilst the block benefits from 24 hour porterage and a passenger lift. Oslo Court is a prestigious block located along the Prince Albert Road, being extremely well located for St John’s Wood High Street, underground station and Regent’s Park.

Joint Sole Agent

Leasehold

102 St John’s Wood Terrace, St John’s Wood, London NW8 6PL

t: 020 7722 2223 e: info@hanover-residential.com w: hanover-residential.com

BLAZER COURT, ST JOHN’S WOOD, NW8

| £1,195,000

A well-presented two bedroom two bathroom apartment (1,017 sq ft/94 sq m) set within this modern purpose built block benefitting from a double reception/dining room and a fantastic 20 ft west facing terrace. Blazer Court has 24 hour porterage, secure underground parking and is located on St John’s Wood Road, directly opposite the world famous Lord’s cricket ground.

Principal Agent

Share of Freehold

property

hot property

Classical Elegance

A beautifully presented end of terrace Victorian house spanning 2,444sq ft / 227sq m. The property is in immaculate condition throughout, boasting a superb first floor reception room with a large bay window and feature fireplace, a south west facing patio and off street parking. The décor is crisp and clean with rooms benefiting from plenty of natural light and extensive storage space, while the kitchen is extremely spacious and fitted with a range of modern appliances. Hamilton Gardens is a quiet, tree-lined road situated within short walking distance of both St John’s Wood and Maida Vale underground stations as well as several major bus routes. The American School in London and Lord’s Cricket Ground are very close by, while the surrounding area is dotted with local shops, a selection of popular restaurants and several picturesque open spaces including Regent’s Park and the Violet Hill Gardens.

Hamilton Gardens, NW8 £2.65m Hanover Residential hanover-residential.com

020 7722 2223 129

savills.co.uk

1 ONE OF THE FIRST HOUSES TO BE BUILT IN ST JOHN'S WOOD abercorn place, nw8 Grade II listed ø grand drawing room ø media room ø study ø dining room ø kitchen/breakfast room ø master bedroom suite ø 4 further bedroom suites ø rear garden ø gated parking for 3/4 cars ø 466 sq m (5,021 sq ft) Guide £9.995 million Freehold

Savills St John's Wood Giles Elliott gelliott@savills.com

020 3043 3600

savills.co.uk

1 A DETACHED VICTORIAN VILLA WITH SWEEPING VIEWS OF PRIMROSE HILL regent's park road, nw1 Reception room ø dining room ø study/music room ø games room ø kitchen ø master bedroom suite ø 5 further bedrooms ø 2 further bathrooms ø staff accommodation with kitchen ø wine cellar and laundry room ø 557 sq m (6,000 sq ft) ø EPC=E Guide £15.5 million Freehold

Savills St John's Wood Stephen Lindsay slindsay@savills.com

020 3043 3600

savills.co.uk

1 AN IMPRESSIVE FAMILY HOME WHICH FORMS PART OF THIS STRIKING TERRACE cumberland terrace, nw1 Double reception room ømedia room ø study ø dining room ø kitchen/ breakfast room ø 6 bedrooms (3 en suite) ø family bathroom ø utility room ø courtyard, balcony and terrace ø wine cellar ø garage and offstreet parking ø access to communal gardens ø 450 sq m (4,850 sq ft) ø EPC=F Guide £7.8 million Leasehold, approximately 99 years remaining

Savills St John's Wood Zach Madison zmadison@savills.com

020 3043 3600

savills.co.uk

1 A GRADE I LISTED CLASSIC REGENT'S PARK HOUSE chester terrace, nw1 4 reception rooms ø4 bedrooms ø 4 bathrooms ø lift ø garage ø private garden ø access to communal gardens ø street parking ø 397 sq m (4,277 sq ft)

Guide £7.25 million Leasehold, approximately 47 years remaining

Savills St John's Wood Stephen Lindsay slindsay@savills.com

020 3043 3600

savills.co.uk

1 EXQUISITE CONTEMPORARY APARTMENT IN A GREAT LOCATION eton road, nw3 Reception room ø kitchen ø 2 bedrooms ø 2 bathrooms ø balcony ø underground parking ø communal garden ø 91 sq m (980 sq ft) ø EPC=D

Savills Hampstead Charles Penny cpenny@savills.com

020 7472 5000 Guide £1.15 million Leasehold, approximately 103 years remaining

savills.co.uk

1 ONE OF HAMPSTEAD'S BEST KEPT SECRETS frognal, nw3 Reception room ø dining room ø kitchen/breakfast room ø 2 bedrooms ø bathroom ø terrace ø 115 sq m (1,237 sq ft) ø EPC=E

Savills Hampstead Peter Brookes pbrookes@savills.com

020 7472 5000 Guide £1.995 million Freehold

Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk

The Terraces, NW8 £1,800 per week A stunning and immaculately refurbished two bedroom apartment with terrace on an upper floor in this well located purpose built block with porter. The apartment has high specification bathrooms with underfloor heating and a superb newly fitted kitchen. EPC: B

Graces Mews, NW8 £850 per week A rarely available and highly desirable three bedroom mews house with outside space and parking. Situated just behind Abbey Road in a quiet attractive mews. Close to St John’s Wood underground station and the many restaurants, shops and cafes on the High Street. EPC: D

Hamptons Office Name Lettings. 020 7717 5487 | stjohnswoodlettings@hamptons-int.com

Ormonde Terrace, NW8 ÂŁ980 per week A beautifully presented newly refurbished two bedroom, two bathroom apartment in this portered block with direct access onto a private garden. The apartment offers fantastic open plan entertaining space. EPC: C

Visage Apartments, NW3 ÂŁ595 per week Situated on the fifth floor, this stunning apartment is located in this striking development benefiting from concierge and underground parking. EPC: C

Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk

Sheringham, NW8 A bright and spacious, beautifully presented three bedroom apartment set within the ever popular Queensmead development. Located on the raised ground floor and boasting three double bedrooms, two bathrooms, guest W/C and utility room, two balconies and fantastic 19ft reception room. EPC: D

£1,350,000 Leasehold • • • • •

Hamptons Hampstead Office Sales. 020 7717 5449 | hampstead@hamptons-int.com

3 Bedrooms 1 Reception Room 2 Bathrooms Private Parking 24 hr Porterage

We believe that every building is one-of-akind. Every design is created to a unique, specific and personal vision. And every project requires individual understanding, research and planning. Blending architectural flair with building surveying professionalism. Collaborating with clients, suppliers, engineers and builders. Together we create original and beautiful bespoke houses. We are experienced and pragmatic, fresh thinking and innovative; we are Pennington Phillips.

Pennington Phillips 16 Spectrum House 32â&#x20AC;&#x201C;34 Gordon House Road London NW5 1LP t: 020 7267 1414 f: 020 7267 7878 design@penningtonphillips.co.uk

foxgregory.co.uk

The Galleries NW8

A stunning four bedroom Penthouse set within this luxury recently constructed purpose built block.

Price on Application Leasehold

This contemporary apartment features a magnificent open plan living area comprising stylish fully equipped kitchen and lounge/ dining room, which has direct access to a private terrace. Further features include an enclosed sun room, two luxury limestone shower rooms, family bathroom, large hallway, twenty-four hour porterage and underground parking. EPC Rating: TBC.

Sales I Lettings I Investments

Hampstead Borders NW3

An immaculately presented semi detached family home extending to approximately 2,892 sq ft / 268.67 sq m.

Price on Application Freehold

The house has been refurbished in recent years and features two intercommunicating reception rooms as well as a large eat in kitchen, all of which have direct access to a beautifully landscaped West facing garden. There is a splendid master suite with dressing area and limestone tiled bathroom, four further double bedrooms and two bathrooms. The property also benefits from off street parking. EPC Rating: TBC. Fox Gregory, 102 Allitsen Road, London NW8 7AY 020 7586 1500 enquiries@foxgregory.co.uk

foxgregory.co.uk

Cornwall Terrace Mews NW1 - Charming Mews House in a prestigious gated development in Regents Park.

Imperial Court NW8 - Fantastic newly decorated three bedroom apartment with views of Regents Park.

Sales I Lettings I Investments

Prince Regent Court NW8 - Stunning contemporary finished apartment with views of Regentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Park.

Ordnance Hill NW8 - Period house designed for 21st century living in prime location. Fox Gregory, 102 Allitsen Road, London NW8 7AY 020 7586 1500 enquiries@foxgregory.co.uk

HAMILTON TERRACE LONDON NW8

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RHP

Finished to the highest specification, this beautiful house comprises 3,257 sq ft/302.6 sq m of luxurious living accommodation incorporating comfort cooling, marble and stone finishes, Miele kitchen appliances and an integrated audio system. The house boasts an abundance of living space and is ideal for entertaining. The large open plan kitchen has direct access to a beautifully landscaped 100ft garden and a separate studio.

Superb master bedroom suite with balcony • 3 further bedrooms (1 with en suite dressing room and bathroom) Family bathroom • Double reception room • Kitchen Dining room • Garden room • Study • 2 guest WCs Utility room • Wine store • 104 ft rear garden • Separate studio at rear incorporating bedroom shower room and kitchenette • Integrated audio system Main House: EPC Rating D • Studio: EPC Rating E

Guide Price £5,850,000

Freehold

020 7483 0101 laurenceleigh.com

13:43

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Our tenants stay longer.

On average, tenants introduced by Kay & Co stay in properties for two years or more. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one of the many reasons why landlords including The Crown Estate, The Howard De Walden Estate, Dolphin Square Foundation and The British Land Company entrust their properties to us. To discuss letting your home to one of our first class corporate tenants including Shell, Sony, Chevron, Deloitte, HSBC, BNP Paribas, Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Price Waterhouse Cooper and Credit-Suisse, please contact us today.

Hyde Park & Bayswater 020 7262 2030 Marylebone & Regentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Park 020 7486 6338

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New Cavendish Street, Marylebone

020 3394 0013 lettings.marylebone@kayandco.com

ÂŁ1,295 Per Week Furnished/Unfurnished A recently refurbished two bedroom, two bathroom flat with wood flooring throughout and an open plan kitchen/reception room. The building has the benefit of a lift and is close to Marylebone High Street. EPC: C.

Bickenhall Street, Marylebone

020 3394 0013 lettings.marylebone@kayandco.com

ÂŁ650 Per Week Furnished A contemporary flat on the fifth floor (with lift) in this portered mansion building. The property benefits from a spacious modern reception room, wooden floors throughout and a fully fitted kitchen. It is located a short walk from Baker Street Station and Marylebone High Street. EPC: C.

kayandco.com

Montagu Mansions, Marylebone

020 3394 0013 sales.marylebone@kayandco.com

ÂŁ3,950,000 Share of Freehold One of the most beautiful flats to come to the market is this Genuity Designsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; interior-designed six bedroom, three bathroom lateral apartment with tremendously flexible living accommodation. This stunning, fully home-automated apartment benefits from a double reception room, large bespoke eat-in kitchen with top of the range Gaggenau appliances, family/play room, utility room and WC. EPC: D.

The Triton Building, Regents Place, NW1 - £425 to £2,500 per week - Long Let The Triton Building at Regent’s Place offers an exciting opportunity to live in a vibrant hub close to Regents Park and ideally located for UCL and The London Business School. The amenities of Marylebone village and Oxford Street are all located nearby. Nearest transport links can be found at Great Portland Street underground and Euston Rail Station. A range of apartments benefiting from 24 hour concierge, comfort cooling and secure underground parking. Available from June 2013, Jones Lang LaSalle are delighted to offer a range of studio, one, two and three bedroom residences for rental, both furnished and unfurnished. Call today to avoid disappointment and register your interest.

30 Warwick Street, London, W1B 5NH

020 7087 5557 joneslanglasalle.co.uk

Lime Grove Mews, Shepherds Bush, W12 - £375 to £1,250 per week - Long Let A selection of brand new apartments and townhouses in this exclusive gated development, located close to the vibrant heart of Shepherds Bush, the A40 and Westfield Shopping Centre. Lime Grove Mews offers contemporary luxury living coupled with energy efficient hot water and heating systems. Available summer 2013.

Central St Giles Piazza, Covent Garden, WC2 - Studios from £450 per week - Long Let A landmark development located in the heart of the West End, Central St Giles offers contemporary living to the highest standard. Spacious studios, one and two bedroom apartments are currently available for rental. The many amenities of Covent Garden and Tottenham Court Road tube station are a short walk away. 24 hour concierge.

Westend.let@eu.jll.com

Your reward for all the late nights in the office.

A Sense of

History Vantage goes behind the closed doors of one of the most iconic Primrose Hill properties, sold for the first time in 80 years

The house in 1950 The house as it stands today

154

property

his extraordinary property in the heart of London’s north west was recently sold through Arlington Residential with an asking price of £20m – which, considering its rather intriguing history, should really come as no surprise. “This is one of only a handful of houses with a large private garden and a gate leading directly onto Primrose Hill. It generated immediate interest from a considerable number of buyers,” says Arlington Residential director Marc Schneiderman. Built between 1902 and 1904, the house was designed by William Willet as part of the development of the Eton College Estate. This beautiful piece of land is situated between Merton Rise and Avenue Road in the Primrose Hill area, backing onto the park itself, with the Estate retaining ownership of the freehold until as recently as 1995. In 1936, the house was bought from its original owners by Col. Hemming, the father of the present owner, who employed Raymond McGrath to modernise the house, a project which preceded a renowned career as principal architect to the Governor of Ireland. McGrath installed central panel heating, while Doris Robertson, an interior designer to The Savoy Hotel, was enlisted to design several of the rooms in the then fashionable Art Deco style – still evident in many of the exquisite high-ceilinged reception and dining rooms throughout the building. During the Second World War the house was requisitioned by the government, housing the officers of the Primrose Hill anti-aircraft battery for a short time before it became the headquarters of the US Air Force General until the D-Day invasion in June 1944. When

the war ended the following year, the house was used to house Irish labourers brought over to demolish bombdamaged buildings in the capital, before finally being returned to the Hemming family in 1946. The top floor, which had functioned until this time as staff quarters and nurseries, was then turned into a flat for Col. Hemming’s widowed sister and, later, for his daughter. When she married in the early 1960s, a separate entrance was built in order to make the flat self-contained, with an elegant covered staircase leading from the door down into the vast carriage driveway close to the original double-fronted doorway. In the late 1960s, Col. Hemming also added a dugout area at the very bottom of the large garden, a secluded space that he used as a workshop-cum-laboratory, and which can now be utilised for storage and for its direct licensed access into Primrose Hill Park itself. A stunning remnant of days gone by, the house continues to exist as two entirely separate apartments, one of which occupies the ground and first floor, and the other occupying the second. Both boast spectacular views across the park and garden, with the larger of the two retaining the original patio leading onto the lawn and period library which, like so many rooms in the house, is flooded with light by large Victorian bay windows. The second-floor apartment also has a spacious terrace overlooking the grounds, with French doors opening onto it from the master bedroom. n

The property was recently sold through Arlington Residential, arlingtonresidential.com. If you are looking to sell a similar property, please contact Marc Schneiderman.

property

ONE TO VIEW One of the most eagerly awaited residential projects in St John’s Wood now offers contemporary city living in leafy surroundings

uxury developer Seqoya has just unveiled two outstanding penthouses. Located at Queen’s Court in St Johns Wood, the properties offer panoramic views over central London. The Vertice penthouse provides 3,728sqft of luxurious living space over three floors, with approximately 1,000sqft of private terraces, including a glass sun room that converts to a cinema at the touch of a button. The Hyperion penthouse is similarly spacious with 3,396sqft of living space over two floors, and 736sqft of private terraces. The quality of the lateral living space, interior design and specification is amongst the finest in the local property market and the release of the penthouses has been highly anticipated. Each apartment benefits from an airy living and entertaining environment, with floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows offering breath-taking views across London’s skyline. This includes a large main drawing room with panoramic windows, leading onto a private outside terrace, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room and entrance hall. There are four luxurious bedroom suites within the properties, all with fitted wardrobes and en-suite bathrooms. The master bedroom suites have been designed to the size of a conventional apartment with a walk-in dressing area and a master en-suite, which forms a mini-spa with a sculptural bath, shower/steam room suite and bespoke vanity units with stunning quartzite countertops. Mirror & Macassar ebony-panelled staircases connect both floors and these are finished in stone and hard wood with a bespoke chandelier acting as an impressive focal point. Seqoya has maintained the advanced specification of the penthouses with state-of-the-art features including Crestron home automation controlled lighting, multi-room audio, blinds/curtains, comfort cooling and integrated plasma screens. Properties also benefit from CCTV and concierge services. n

seqoya.co.uk

St John’s Wood, NW8 POA On the market in June with joint sole agents Aston Chase 020 7724 4724 Knight Frank 020 7586 2777 Savills 020 7472 5000 156

CLD27343 Breakspear House 210x297 AD 12/03/2013 16:19 Page 1

Breakspear housE

www.breakspearhouse.com

HAREFIELD â&#x20AC;˘ MIDDLESEX

BEAUTIFULLY UNIQUE Breakspear House, a dramatic fusion of historic elegance and contemporary specification, culminating in a unique collection of apartments set within nine acres of private, landscaped grounds with excellent transport links to central London. A conversion of a Grade I listed 17th century manor house into nine superb 2 & 3 bedroom apartments Set in more than 9 acres of ancient woodland and private parkland Only 15 miles from central London* Just 8 miles from Heathrow* and with good access to the A40, M25 and M40 motorways Underground access at West Ruislip (Central Line), Hillingdon (Metropolitan / Piccadilly Lines) and Rickmansworth (Metropolitan Line)

V I E W I N G H I G H LY R E C O M M E N D E D

Well proportioned rooms, many with original features

SHOW APARTMENT OPEN

Stunning and far reaching views

Thursday / Friday 2pm - 7pm and Saturday / Sunday 11am - 4pm, or by private appointment

Flexible viewing times available with local station pick up/drop off service if required Prices from ÂŁ1.1 million A development by HERITAGE BREAKSPEAR LTD *Straight line distances

Call 01895 824471 or email sales@breakspear-heritage.com

The spirit of St John’s Wood Rescorp Residential are proud to offer for sale and for let two apartments set within this landmark newly built iconic building.

THE ATRIUM £2,495,000

THE ATRIUM £1,450 per week Both apartments are finished to a very high specification offering features including a smart technology home control system, comfort cooling and under floor heating, luxurious bathrooms and a state of the art kitchen. Each property benefits from a master bedroom with an en-suite bathroom, a second bedroom with an en-suite bathroom, a fully fitted Bulthaup kitchen with Gaggenau appliances and spacious reception room incorporating an open plan dining area. The Atrium benefits from 24 hour Harrods Concierge service and secure underground parking space.

Please call us for viewing arrangements.

Vic Chhabria Director

SALES

LETTINGS

MANAGEMENT

58 Acacia Road, St Johns Wood, London NW8 6AG - T: 0203 348 8000 www.rescorp.co.uk

£1000 per week - Unfurnished

Buckland Crescent, Belsize Park, NW3

Stunning, three bedroom, (comprising two doubles and one single/ study room), two bathroom apartment with own entrance located moments from Swiss Cottage and Belsize Park underground stations. The property comprises of a spectacular 22 ft reception with stylish off-set kitchen, fireplace with gas flame effect fire and sliding doors onto patio and mature private garden, master bedroom with en suite shower room, family bathroom, additional double bedroom also with French doors leading to garden and additional third bedroom and guest cloakroom. The property has been refurbished throughout to the highest of specifications and is available unfurnished from around the 12th June. (EPC Band Rating C)

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Property Divas Limited, 34a Rosslyn Hill, Hampstead, NW3 1NH 020 7431 8000 info@propertydivas.com www.propertydivas.com

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Warrington Gardens W9 ÂŁ2,250,000 This beautiful Victorian conversion comprises an impressive dual aspect reception room with high ceilings, period features and fantastic views over the Communal gardens, a modern semi open plan kitchen and a charming study area leading off the main reception room. The property further benefits from a large master suite served by a well proportioned bathroom and built-in storage, two further double bedrooms, a single bedroom and a family bathroom. Leasehold. EPC=D. Sole Agents. LITTLE VENICE: 020 7993 3050 sales.lve@marshandparsons.co.uk

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Alexandra Court W9 £1,600 per week A beautiful, bright apartment arranged on the top ﬂoor of this popular mansion building (with lift) in the heart of Little Venice. The property comprises a large reception room, an eat-in kitchen with a balcony, a master bedroom with walk-in wardrobe and en suite bathroom, a guest bathroom, separate cloakroom and two further bedrooms. Alexandra Court is ideally located a short walk from the local amenities and transport links of Clifton Road and Warwick Avenue. EPC=E LITTLE VENICE: 020 7993 3050 lets.lve@marshandparsons.co.uk

Shirland Road W9 £450 per week This newly refurbished apartment is arranged over the first floor of a period conversion a short walk from Queen’s Park and Maida Vale. The property has been refurbished to a high standard throughout with wooden flooring, lots of natural light and high quality furniture, fixtures and fittings. Comprising an open plan kitchen/reception room, a modern bathroom, a large double bedroom leading to a stunning roof terrace and a second bedroom/study. EPC=D LITTLE VENICE: 020 7993 3050 lets.lve@marshandparsons.co.uk

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0 % Commission 100 % Local know-how And our commitment to getting you the best possible result …on the house! > Maximum exposure to the best buyers > London’s best negotiators* > Unequalled customer service* > Award-winning marketing > Over 150 years’ experience To celebrate the opening of our newest office in Marylebone, we are offering to sell your property for free! For full Terms and Conditions, call us or visit marshandparsons.co.uk/sell-your-home-for-free Marylebone Office 94 Baker Street, London W1U 6FZ T: 020 7368 4458 marshandparsons.co.uk

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