VANTAGE St JOHN'S WOOD - NOVEMBER 2010 by Runwild Media Group

Vantage

COVERING ST JOHN’S WOOD, MAIDA VALE, PRIMROSE HILL, MARYLEBONE, regent’s park AND THE SURROUNDING AREA

Christmas time for

Travelling the world for gift inspiration

& LOST IN BEAUTY

Georgie Hamed shares her secrets

fashion travel motoring interiors property N OV E M B E R 2010

i s s u e 0 6

contents Feature

travel connoisseur

10 Deeper than Beauty

J enny White meets make-up artist to the stars Georgina Hamed

12 Spotlight On...

Discover the timeless charm of old Hampstead Village

Concierge 20 Nightclubbing

sustainable SCARLET Set on a spectacular clifftop site in a wild corner of Cornwall, The Scarlet artfully combines great design with sustainability, and Sarah Gilbert sets out on a journey of discovery

rranged over five levels, The Scarlet Hotel was built to blend seamlessly into its surroundings, with flat roofs covered in sea thrift and rocks. The entrance may be low key, but the interior is anything but. With no reception in the airy lobby, it’s like walking into a fabulous house, and the first thing to catch your eye are the floor-to-ceiling windows that frame a breathtaking view of Mawgan Porth Bay, its rolling surf and golden sands flanked by steep cliffs. Furniture is contemporary, sleek and tactile, from the roof terrace where you can sunbathe or stargaze, to a series of chic lounges where bright colours and bold patterns blend harmoniously. Art, from modern sculptures to original paintings, is everywhere. All 37 rooms – there are five categories: Just Right,

Generous, Unique, Spacious and Indulgent, which increase in size – have large windows and their own private outdoor space from a balcony to a large terrace, with views of the sea and Atlantic sunsets. Our spacious room was decorated with natural wood and stone, sharp lines and angles eschewed in favour of sensuous curves. The kingsize bed was clad in warm taupe and honey fabrics, and the stand-alone bath (in the middle of the room) and curtain-free shower were covered with opalescent mosaic tiles. Eco-chic in all the details, the high-thread count sheets and fluffy towels and robes are made of organic cotton. The delicious-smelling soaps are from the Cornish Soap Box Company and come with a little canvas bag so you can take them away with you. While The Scarlet doesn’t compromise on luxury, you

can relax in the knowledge that your hedonism is being offset by its green ethos. The three sisters behind the hotel kept its environmental impact at the forefront from the start, from using water-based eco paint and a huge biomass boiler that burns locally harvested woodchips, to greywater recycling and solar panel-heated pools. A child-free zone, The Scarlet is perfect for a romantic getaway, designed to help couples reconnect. Aiding this process is the lack of wi-fi and mobile phone reception (if that thought scares you, there are ethernet cables available and you can get a signal further along the road) and, not least, two lipstick-red, log-fired hot tubs. Set on the cliff edge overlooking the dramatic sweep of the bay, a romantic soak in the mineral-rich seaweed baths is ideally paired with a glass of champagne. Inside, the hotel’s innovative spa is based on Ayurvedic principles. After a consultation to determine your dosha, or body type, you can choose from a single treatment, or a range of treatments, creating a spa journey that can last up to four hours. Get scrubbed down in the hammam, or slather each other in black rasul mud, which will leave your skin glowing. Then choose from the low-lit, post-treatment relaxation space filled with suspended tepee-like pods. Filled with cushions, the swaying motion will soon have you drifting off to sleep. Or take to a day bed or squishy beanbag in a more uplifting, sun-drenched room overlooking the reedbed natural pool and the sea beyond. The more active can swim in the large pool – where glass walls blend indoor and outdoor space – or brave the

Atlantic for some wild swimming, coasteering, kayaking, even surfing. On dry land you can try yoga, horse riding and tree climbing. Unsurprisingly, some people never leave the hotel. Breakfast in The Scarlet’s stylish, light-filled restaurant is an informal, leisurely affair, prepared with seasonal locally sourced produce: generous portions of fruit salad, homemade bread and jams, and a very full English. Dinner is more glamorous and intimate, but the dishes on Michelin-starred chef Ben Tunnicliffe’s eclectic, daily changing menu are equally home-grown, and designed to let the flavours of the fresh ingredients shine through. With wine recommendations from a Euro-centric list (fewer air miles) – including Cornish Camel Valley wines – I opted for the seared hand-dived St Austell scallops, with onion purée and peppered satsumas, followed by charred rib of St Ives beef with caramelised shallots, salsa verde and griddled polenta, rounded off with a decadent hot chocolate soufflé with pistachio ice cream and, greedily, a selection of poetically named local cheeses. My experience at The Scarlet left me both relaxed and invigorated – and it didn’t cost the earth. n

Clockwise from left: Exterior Relaxation terrace Lobby Spa - light relaxtion room Restaurant

For further information, visit www.scarlethotel.co.uk

Double rooms start at £180 per night, for two sharing, including breakfast and VAT.

Getting there: the author flew to Newquay on Air Southwest (airsouthwest.com). The Scarlet is only six miles from the airport.

57 motoring calibre

Head turning frocks for a night on the town

28 The Trend

S CONTINENTAL

37 Not All Vanity

ome seven years after the original was launched comes the new footballer’s favourite. It’s the same length and height as before, but is a little wider. The radiator is more upright and the bonnet marginally longer as a result, while the body’s lines – notably over the rear haunches and the bold strake across the doors – are crisper than before. There are changes to the headlights with LED inserts, in line with the recently launched Mulsanne, and a smart new dashboard. The seats are thinner and lighter with the dual benefits of contributing to the car’s 65kg overall weight loss, as well as offering more knee room for those in the rear. Under the bonnet, the thirsty turbocharged 6.0-litre W12 engine has been tweaked to give a little more power (it’s up to 575PS) with, claims Bentley, no increase in fuel consumption. But the really big news is that towards the end of 2011, the Conti will be offered with a new 4.0-litre V8 engine with somewhere in the region of 450PS on tap… Bentley is being no more specific at the moment. Performance will suffer a little, but that will be more than offset by lower emissions and much better economy. Not that many of the Premier Division will worry too much about that. n

Festive fancies for the Christmas table take two It’s a case of ‘meet the new boss, same as the old boss’, according to Matthew Carter. This, believe it or not, is the all-new Bentley Continental GT, though the casual observer might be hard pushed to tell the difference between old and new

Simple surgery could now be the answer to varicose veins

Calibre

40 Continental Take Two

A first look at the new Bentley

46 America on the Offensive

ing

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NFL Fever hits British shores

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: pher r ni ogra Phot r Zow

Pete

Black sequin one shoulder dress, £450, Project D at Harvey Nichols, Knightsbridge, SW1. Black jewelled ‘Latoya’ clutch, £950, Jimmy Choo, 020 7823 1051 www.jimmychoo.com

50 Time for Christmas

56 Sustainable Scarlet

Festive treasures from across the globe

Eco friendly luxury in the wilds of Cornwall

61 Sunday delight

The delights of a champagne Sunday brunch

regulars

Property

19 fashion

45 sport

74 Hot property

27 interiors

50 family

33 health & beauty

55 travel

39 motoring

59 food & drink

43 gadgets

63 property

Stunning high end living from Brian Lack

80 Indulgent perfection

Luxury Serbian design influences hit London

Longitude. Latitude. Attitude.

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RUNWILD M

Homes, interiors, interviews, gardens, food, family, fashion and travel: Every month VANTAGE delivers the definitive lifestyle guide boasting the best life has to offer. With carefully selected lead interviews and stories, our team of writers brings to life the people, personalities and places that are both relevant and inspirational. VANTAGE is the latest publication from dynamic, independent publishing house Runwild Media (RWM). The ethos of high-quality and intelligent editorial combined with a stylish aesthetic has helped them carve a niche in the field of luxury publishing. Specialising in bespoke, luxury titles with exclusive partnerships (including Canary Wharf Group, British Land, The Royal Exchange, Visit London, The O2 and many more) the company is rapidly expanding its portfolio with many new exciting magazine launches coming soon.

Editor in Chief Lesley Ellwood

Editorial Director Kate Harrison

Editor

Louisa Castle

Deputy Editor Emma Mills

Features Editor Jenny White

Fashion Editor Lucie Dodds

Editorial Assistants

contributors...

Oliver Balcazar Penelope M Walsh

Senior Designers Laddawan Juhong Hiren Chandarana

Production Fiona Fenwick Daniel Harris

Advertising Manager Samuel Finnegan

Property Manager Kate Oxbrow

Group Publishing Director Eren Ellwood

1. Jamie Carter is

a freelance journalist specialising in gadgets and technology. Jamie has written for the likes of T3, Home Cinema Choice and The Guardian as well as a number of websites.

2. Ruthe Wainman

has been involved in food and drink for over seven years, first as a publicist for the Good Food Channel, before moving into freelance public relations.

3. Matthew Carter is

Managing Director

a London-based freelance journalist who’s been writing about cars for most of his working life. A former editor of Autocar magazine, he is a serial car owner.

Giles Ellwood

16 Heron Quay, Canary Wharf London E14 4JB T: 020 7987 4320 F: 020 7005 0045 www.runwildmedia.com

Vantage

COVERING ST JOHN’S WOOD, MAIDA VALE, PRIMROSE HILL, MARYLEBONE, REGENT’S PARk AND THE SURROUNDING AREA

‘A White Christmas’ courtesy of John Lewis Snowy pine paper tree, £90, John Lewis 80 LED fairy lights, £20, Magnolia frost decorations: wreath £25, garland £25, Embroidered trimmings: reindeer stocking, £15, tree skirt, £35; Crackle hurricane lamp, small £10 www.johnlewis.com Runwild Media Group Publishers of: Canary Wharf magazine The City magazine, Vicinitee VENUE – The official magazine of The O2

Christmas time for

Travelling The world for gifT inspiraTion

Runwild Media Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Runwild Media Ltd. takes no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved. Subscriptions:

& LOST IN BEAUTY

georgie hamed shares her secreTs

fashion travel motoring interiors property NOVEMBER 2010

i s s u e 0 6

A free online subscription service is available to VANTAGE, e-mail subscribe@runwildmedia.com for further details.

November

from the editor... As our festive issue lands on your coffee table, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only 35 days to go until the rounded belly of Father Christmas eases down your chimney, leaves his gifts, takes the treat you left him back up to trusty Rudolph and sets off on his way to the next home. Just as our jolly red friend heads off on his mad dash to deliver presents to those who have been good, we follow Christmas Day across the globe, from the first dawn in New Zealand through good old Greenwich Mean Time and onwards to the Pacific picking up some alternative gift ideas along the way; it is Time for Christmas, or at least time for some Christmas shopping inspiration (p.50). Thinking of the imminent Christmas parties Jenny White visits make-up artist to the stars, Georgie Hamed, in her new venture in Primrose Hill, hoping to convince her to impart some fabulous tips for this party season (p.19). Our fashion pages follow suit with some of the sparkliest and sexy evening wear around (p.20), and arriving at the Christmas party never looked so good as Matthew Carter takes the new Bentley Continental for a spin (p.40).

If all this Christmas-talk is getting a bit too much, our regular experts from The Wellington Hospital advise on the dangers of high blood pressure and how to keep calm through the holiday season (p.34). Alternatively, Sarah Gilbert takes herself away on a weekend break to Cornwall, staying at the eco-hotel, The Scarlet (p.56) and for a bit of sun, how does golfing in Mustique sound, complete with your own personal course? (p.39) Moving closer to home, Sim Smith decorates the perfect Christmas table (p.28), Jenny White gains membership to the Aga club (p.30) and we speak to Serbian interior designer Elena Karic about bringing her sense of style and beauty to London next year (p.80). Whateverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on your wish list this Christmas, we hope it comes true.

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than Deeper

Beauty

On a mission to share her celebrity beauty secrets, make-up artist Georgie Hamed tells Jenny White why she wanted to create more than just a beauty salon in Primrose Hill

ne girly foot inside the doorway of Lost in Beauty and you are transported into an Aladdin’s cave of beauty and all that sparkles. Potions, lotions and make-up galore are mixed in with specially selected vintage jewellery and accessories which are displayed on cool, retro shelves and counters; a pair of Terry de Havilland’s golden platform shoes adorns the window display along with a giant pair of red, pouting lips. Down the stairs you enter the backstage dressing room where the inspiration is taken from founder and make-up artist, Georgie Hamed’s life as an international make-up artist. A Mecca for beauty novices and beauty junkies alike, the Primrose Hill salon offers so much more than its façade lets on. “When I first opened the shop a lot of people didn’t really get it. They were wondering what exactly we were. ‘You

sell clothes, jewellery, beauty and what is it that you do downstairs?’”, explains creative director and founder Georgie. “However, over time people understood what it was and they grew to embrace my concept. The shop doesn’t scream beauty salon but I didn’t want it to be obvious, I wanted people to get to know the shop and get to know me.” A favourite with A-list celebrities and with over 15 years experience in the industry, Georgie set up Lost in Beauty over two years ago with the passion and determination to create a unique boutique that would offer a coveted selection of niche beauty products, vintage jewellery and accessories combined with expert advice, bespoke make-up, hair and other essential beauty services. Her aim was to not simply have a shop selling products, but to create something that was a superior boutique which would stand out against the ordinary, clinical

interview

or simply overwhelming stores that currently are on offer. And this is exactly what Georgie has done. “I wanted to create a king of Victorian apothecary, almost a kind of curiosity shop where there is lots to look at,” says Georgie with obvious passion for what she has created. “I wanted it to feel different to any other beauty place. I find that most beauty places are sterile, clinical and bright, whereas here it has more of a comforting feel and it is ultra girly.” Offering customers the same hands on expertise as she provides for her celebrity clients, which have included Cate Blanchet, Naomi Campbell and Amy Winehouse, Georgie has the belief that everyone who enters her domain should experience the same ‘VIP treatment’. Born in London, Georgie’s career began straight after A-levels following a make-up course at Greasepaint. Instantly knowing that she wanted to focus her creativity on working within fashion and music she spent the next few years assisting within the fashion circuit on editorial, music and advertising shoots, as well as on shows in London, Paris, Milan and New York. Eventually going it alone, she worked her way to the top, establishing herself as a top class make-up artist, known for her versatility and expertise. Over the years she has worked for i-D, The Face, Dazed, Vanity Fair, Tatler, L’uomo Vogue, Elle and Glamour and on advertising campaigns with clients such as Nike, Levi’s and Hugo Boss. Still continuing to work as a freelance make-up artist, Georgie has employed seasoned professionals to help provide her clients with top class treatments from hair and nails to threading and make-up lessons. Never one to sit on her laurels, Georgie also hosts special in-store events, art exhibitions, as well as writing a reportage style beauty blog and runs an afterhours ‘Beauty Club’ for groups to get their make-up done and enjoy an indulgent pampering party. “I think sometimes the best part of the night is getting glammed up, music on and getting ready with your friends. That is

feature

what I wanted to recreate downstairs in the shop – a place where girls can hang out and get ready and do what we do best,” smiles Georgie. A real girl’s girl, Georgie loves getting ready for a night out, but rarely has the time to spend on herself, often resorting to doing her make-up in the car on the way to parties. However, she is very aware that it can be very daunting when investing in beauty products due to such a saturated market and that many come away with products they never use or don’t know how to apply properly. “I feel British women are still slightly behind other countries in the upkeep of skincare because they don’t spend that much money looking after their skin. Moisturising before putting on foundation makes such a difference to the way in which your make-up looks, but because there is so much choice often women don’t know which creams to go for and because they haven’t been educated in how to use them, they don’t see the benefits,” explains Georgie. With future plans to open another shop and ideas to launch her own beauty range, Georgie’s obsession with beauty has provided Primrose Hill with an exclusive boutique that suits the area perfectly. “I chose Primrose Hill because I wanted somewhere that had a village feel with a good mix of clientele, professionals and mums who like to pamper themselves,” smiles the Notting Hill resident. “I felt this area was a great hidden part of London, where people come to spend the day exploring the area and the shops.” Whatever your beauty dilemma, the solution will more than likely be found in the sanctuary of Lost in Beauty and Georgie’s years of experience; it seems we have found our new guilty pleasure. n 117 Regents Park Road Primrose Hill, London NW1 8UR 020 7586 4411/ www.lostinbeauty.com

SPOTLIGHT ON:

Hampstead Village

Hampstead Village is not only unique and charming but is also home to many famous faces past and present and as Jenny White discovers, has a fascinating history

hen McDonald’s tried to open up a branch of the fast food chain in a Grade II listed building in Hampstead Village, the residents fought back with all their might. Despite not preventing the food giant from setting up shop, they did make the chain agree to a previously unprecedented re-design of the shop front, reducing the conspicuousness of its facade and logo so that it would fit in with the area. This is a clear example of the beauty of Hampstead Village and the residents who reside

in the area; that despite some modern high street names creeping in, Hampstead Village has still managed to retain most of its original village charm making it one of the most sought after places to live in London. With narrow, hilly streets and cobbled alleys leading off the main high streets, Hampstead Village boasts beautiful cottages and buildings which are interwoven into the landscape and create the unusual urban village vibe. Hampstead High Street alone is home to 18 Grade II listed properties all snuggled between expensive shops, old pubs, bohemian cafés and

community churches and throughout the village blue oval plaques can be found on various houses to mark famous historical residents who once lived there. Only four miles north of the Houses of Parliament, and still part of central London, Hampstead is a uniquely conserved Georgian village which offers residents easy access into The City and the West End.

Ye Olde History Now a bustling ‘village’, Hampstead can be traced back as far as 986 A.D when King Ethelred the Unready gave the area of Hampstead and Hendon

spotlight

to the monastery of St Peter’s at Westminster for farming purposes. For centuries afterwards the land would be used for farming and agricultural, (the Saxon words ‘ham stede’, mean ‘home farm’) and was part of the great forest of Middlesex. For centuries it was just like any other village in England where people grew crops and animals grazed. It wasn’t until the late 17th century that Hampstead Village, like many rural communities near London began to develop as wealthy people fled the plague of 1665 and the fire of 1666. For those who had left London and had the money, Hampstead was the ideal location as it was far enough away from the noise and dirt of the city but close enough to enjoy the amenities of the big smoke. Like many rural villages, Hampstead tried to establish itself as a spa village, naming itself Hampstead Wells. Although the spa aspect didn’t take off due to the surrounding competition of other spa towns and villages, Hampstead still became a popular place to reside away from the city and became a popular place to go hunting on the Heath. Victorian times saw the upmarket reputation of Hampstead really flourish as it was perceived as a healthy and attractive place to stay which in turn encouraged rich merchants to build country houses. The famous Kenwood House and Burgh House

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were both built around this time and are representative of the thriving times. It wasn’t until the 19th century that London and Hampstead became so built up that they merged and this expansion was in part due to the influx of Irish settlers who were arriving to escape the potato famine. This in turn, along with the arrival of the first railway station in the area, saw the population of Hampstead double in the twenty years following 1871.

A Few Famous Faces Standing proudly on the hill over looking the city of London, the leafy suburb has been for centuries an attractive location for writers, musicians, artists and innovative thinkers. Charles Dickens, John Constable and William Blake are just a few famous names who found inspiration from living in the village. The great Romantic poet, John Keats lived in Hampstead Village from about 1818 to 1820 and it was in his Hampstead house, sitting under the plum tree in his front garden that he wrote his famous “Ode to a Nightingale.” Keats was in love with his neighbour, Fanny Brawne but died of consumption before they could marry. Today, the two Regency cottages have been combined into one house and hold their relics, letters and various books and manuscripts for visitors to observe. The famous plum tree has

feature spotlight

been replaced with another plum tree with a small brass plaque identifying it. Venturing to 20 Maresfield Gardens you will find Sigmund Freud’s house where he lived, worked and died after his escape from Nazi-occupied Vienna in 1938. Having now been turned into a museum, the contents of the house have been left as it was, with Freud and his daughter Anna’s original furniture and personal effects on display. Freud’s library and study are the key attraction to the museum with his famous couch on show, as well as a large collection of art and strange toys that once belonged to the father of psychoanalysis. The Hampstead Parish Church in Church Row just off Heath Street is also home to a handful of famous residents who have now been laid to rest in the cemetery. The painter, John Constable is buried here along with labour leader, Hugh Gaitskell, actress Kay Kendall and several members of the du Maurier family, along with, (according to the book ‘Burried in Hampstead’) Jane Austen’s aunt! Another famous burial site in Hampstead can be found in a peaceful grove of trees on Hampstead Heath. Queen Boadicea, the British queen

famous for rousing her followers to rebel against the invading Romans eventually committed suicide in 61 A.D after her troops were decimated by the Romans. The area in which she is buried is surrounded by trees and benches dedicated to the memories of various other remarkable people.

The Roof of London Often referred to as the roof of London, Hampstead Village and its famous Hampstead Heath is the ideal place to go to look down on London and see the lights of the sprawling city. The ancient heathland is a big part of what makes Hampstead Village feel like it is a million miles away from the city. Covering 350 hectares, this grassy public space provides some of the highest points in London with Parliament Hill providing views of Canary Wharf, St Paul’s Cathedral and the Parliament Buildings – this was in fact the spot where English conspirator Guy Fawkes gathered with his gang to watch the Parliament Buildings blow up before his plan was foiled. The view from Parliament Hill is such a breathtaking sight that it is protected by law.

Rambling and hilly, the Heath embraces ponds, ancient woodlands, a lido, playgrounds, and a training track, as well as adjoining the stately home of Kenwood House and its grounds. Running along its eastern perimeter are a chain of ponds - including three openair public swimming pools - which were originally reservoirs for drinking water from the River Fleet. Swimming takes place all year round in two of the three natural swimming ponds: the men’s pond which opened in the 1890s, and the ladies’ pond which opened in 1925. The mixed pond is only open from May to September, although it is the oldest, having been in use since the 1860s.

While You Are There The ideal way in which to experience the true essence of Hampstead Village is to sign up for one of The Original London Walks which offers two separate tours – the Old Hampstead Village Pub Walk and the Old Hampstead Village Walk – which will explore all the history and the beauty of the beauty and unique ‘village’ of Hampstead. n For further information, visit www.walks.com

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WHEN THE KETTLE AND THE CAGED BIRD SING

Alessi are renowned for their inventive and intriguing shapes, imbuing everyday objects with character, humour and, above all, style

nfamous for bringing Philippe Starckâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s space age lemon squeezer to the world, the innovative Italian design brand Alessi has just launched its new collection, which includes this beautiful new piece of tea apparatus, a tea strainer in the shape of a caged bird. Steeped in a strong sense of Chinese culture, the concept is not as far-fetched or surreal as it may at first appear. Inspired by a tendency for the Chinese ĂŠlite of a bygone age to take pet birds, housed in beautifully ornate cages, to the tea houses,

the tea strainer makes an everyday experience more exquisite by combining it with an elegant tradition. Designed by Alan Chan, the well-known Hong Kong-based graphic designer, the tea strainer is part of the Tea Matter range of distinctly oriental, yet modern, stainless steel tea accessories. For some time now, Alan Chan has also been involved in producing his own high-quality teas, making him the perfect fit to breathe new design life into the ancient art of tea. n www.alessi.co.uk

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IN THE MARKET

fashion

news Long a City favourite for luxurious leather goods, Tanner Krolle will be opening a new flagship store in Mayfair this month. The original store in the City of London has stood at the same site since 1856, showcasing the height of quality craftsmanship and English expertise, with beautiful, hand-crafted leather bags and luggage for more than 150 years. The new store in Shepherd Market will house Tanner Krolle’s exclusive and stylish pieces over two floors, with the first floor occupied by a dedicated design workshop, where you can scan the extensive archives to create bespoke pieces. www.tannerkrolle.com

Quote of the month:

New to NW New to the NW postcode this year is fashion brand Louie Louie. Creating quite a stir with their Camden flagship store, Louie Louie offers an exciting shopping experience like no other with a fusion of original fashion, music and art. Their latest collection and has been inspired by the Christmas and New Year party scene, creating a capsule collection that aims to provide

you with everything you will need for the festive period; taking you from your work party, to Christmas Day festivities to New Year’s Eve celebrations. With a true designer feel without the designer price tag, Louie Louie is the one of to watch this New Year. www.louie-louie.co.uk

Fashion is more usually a gentle progression of revisited ideas Bruce Oldfield

Website:

TREND:

The Marilyn Sweater

Fashion Conscience is an online boutique bringing together a stylish collection of ethical fashion. The brainchild of a former fashion journalist, Fashion Conscience is the result of Lianne Ludlow’s green epiphany that ethical fashion could be moved away from its frumpy and worthy image and made “glossy and glam”. To achieve this, Ludlow’s mantra has been “style first, ethics second”, and the result is a great selection of organic cotton, vegan leather (read synthetic with better marketing), as well as sustainably sourced and even recycled pieces.

The Winter Maxi

Some like it hot; on a cold winter’s evening some would settle for warm. Chunky cable knits were a big hit on the autumn winter catwalks and soft, cosy, warm and reassuringly protective as they are, it is certainly a trend to be welcomed. This season, Gerard Darel has created this gorgeous off-white cable-knit sweater, as well as using this look, for the first time, to create a dress, scarf, socks and even a waistcoat. But this is not just any sweater; it is, in fact, a replica of the original sweater worn by Marilyn Monroe in the 1960 film Let’s Make Love, won by Gerard Darel at a Christie’s auction in 1999. www.gerarddarel.com

www.fashion-conscience.com

MUST-HAVE ITEM:

Winter is almost upon us and, as the temperatures drop, so too will hemlines, with November’s hottest (and warmest) dresses falling to the floor. An integral part of this season’s loungey, leisurely luxury, winter maxis exude easy elegance, and are easily dressed down or up, making them great for both day and night. This piece from Warehouse ties beautifully into this winter’s focus on all things ‘70s, with a soft, slighty floaty shape and a floral, feminine and distinctly autumnal print.

Warehouse Floral Maxi £85

www.warehouse.co.uk

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Black sequin one shoulder dress, £450, Project D at Harvey Nichols, Knightsbridge, SW1. Black jewelled ‘Latoya’ clutch, £950, Jimmy Choo, 020 7823 1051 www.jimmychoo.com

White silk crepe catsuit, £1,795, Maria Grachvogel, 020 7245 9331 Black ‘Sinatra’ clutch, £895, Gina, 020 7409 7090 www.gina.com

White Swarovski jacket, £159, matching waistcoat, £119, and trousers, £119, all Azzaro at La Redoute, 0844 842 2222 www.laredoute.co.uk

Thanks to Vanessa at Shoreditch House Fashion Assistant: Natalie Dale

Make-up:

Lace ‘Love’ slip, £225, Agent Provocateur www.agentprovocateur.com. Satin platform stilettos Gina, as before. Sequin jacket from £3,950 and matching trousers from £2,600 Bruce Oldfield Couture, 27 Beauchamp Place SW3 020 7584 1363 www.bruceoldfield.com

Yvette Redmond at Tiger Creative using Lumious Moisturizing Foundation, Creamy Concealer, Tinted Eye Brightener, Sheer Colour Cheek Tint in Sheer Pink, Brow Pencil in Blonde, Metallic Long-Wear Cream Shadow in Starry Night, Metallic Eye Shadow in Midnight (12), Eye Shadow in Smoke (24), Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner in Denim Ink, Creamy Eye Pencil in Jet, Lip Color in Beige (02) & Extreme Party Mascara in Black all Bobbi Brown

Hair: Katie Pettigrew at Tiger Creative using Paul Mitchell

13 Nov 2010 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 20 Feb 2011 Canada Square Park CanarY WHarF www.ticketmaster.co.uk 0844 847 1556 For details and corporate bookings www.canarywharficerink.com

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interiors

concierge

Jigsaw linen, from £10

interiors

news

Jigsaw Prepare for the second instalment of gorgeous interiors from Jigsaw home this season. Inspired by a quintessential British look, the company has drawn on vintage prints and union jacks to produce a truly indulgent collection of bed linen, throws and scatter cushions. So this month, why not indulge your inner eccentric, wrap yourself up in some cashmere and enjoy the best of British in style?

Medio Candela range, £35

JIGSAW, www.jigsaw-online.com

SOFT TOUCH

Molton Brown Why not treat yourself and your space to something a little bit different this month. Perfect for cosy winter nights, Molton Brown has launched a brand new range of mood-enhancing candels. Beautifully packaged, the collection draws on a luxuriant blend of essential oils specifically designed to evoke a variety of sensory states from calm to optimistic, sensual and enigmatic. Unusual combinations include soothing notes of lavender and tobacco and the mysterious scent of leather, tar and amber. 0808 178 1188, www.moltonbrown.co.uk

Fornasetti Expect to be enticed by the new ‘it’ product of the season, courtesy of renowned Italian design house Fornasetti. In a new collaboration with world-renowned master perfumer Olivier Polge, the company are set to wow the interiors market with their take on unique home fragrances. Choose from scented candles and boxed incense sticks to room sprays and ceramic globe diffusers, perfumed oil or scented rocks. Worth the initial investment, these ceramic vessels can be adopted for alternative use later on, ensuring you’ll have a little piece of Fornasetti in your collection well after your candle’s burnt out!

Kitchen experts Poggenpohl have launched the new range Creative Accents. It includes metallic gloss, matt lacquer and pearlised laminates that blend beautifully with both contemporary and organic features to create an elegant finish. Four new subtly shimmering shades of Cubanit, Curit, Flourit and Oxyd will give cabinets a delicate pearlescent finish, working well contrasted with wood grain and stone, to give a softer, more organic edge to the high concept kitchen. Complete, installed Poggenpohl kitchens from £25,000 08000 683 606 www.poggenpohl.com

AVAILABLE FROM SELFRIDGES www.fornasettiprofumi.com

Architettura, scented candle, £95

the trend Sim Smith’s guide to a truly traditional Christmas table

Wrought iron six-arm trumpet chandelier £739, Besselink & Jones 020 7584 0343, www.besselink.com

Crystal Splendid stemware with gold lining from £44.95, Moser, Harrods 020 7730 1234, www.harrods.com

Taddington wallpaper in Red on Metallic from the Damask Resource Volume 3 collection, £65.33 per double roll ex VAT, Thibaut 020 7351 6496, www.thibautdesign.com

Leather Brunches Lunches Suppers Dinners hardbound book in red, £165, Smythson 0845 873 2435, www.smythson.com

Steel Swan center table bordered in Venetian Gold from the Collector’s Edition collection, £1,904.98 Baker London, www.bakerfurniture.com Brass trim Chateau 165 oven in Bordeaux from £21,000, La Cornue 0870 7561 235, www.lacornue.co.uk

interiors

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Paper Victorian character masks, £16, Cox & Cox 0844 858 0744, www.coxandcox.co.uk

Porcelain Ritz Imperial Blanc dinner plates in white and gold, from £83, Haviland 020 7292 044, www.haviland.fr

Polished brass Small Nureyev Trolley, £3,800, Soane Britain 020 7730 6400, www.soane.co.uk Empire Flame cutlery in gold, individual pieces from £92, Clive Christian for Arthur Price 01543 257775, www.arthurprice.com

Clove, cinnamon and orange Nazareth candle £55, Cire Trudon 020 7625 7952, www.united-perfumes.com

Luxury Christmas preserves, £18.95 each, Fortnum and Mason 0845 300 1707, www.fortnumandmason.com

concierge interiors

MEMBER of

THE CLUB

As soon as you become an owner of an Aga you automatically become part of a wider community. Jenny White visits the Marylebone store to find out what all the fuss is about

rom quick stir-fries through to elaborate soufflés, the Aga excels at every style of cooking. Aga cakes are lighter, roasts are more succulent, chips crunchier, Yorkshire puddings actually rise, steaks are juicier and pizzas are always crisp to perfection. It’s even a whizz at ready meals for those more hectic days. However, for many looking to buy an Aga it can be quite a daunting decision to replace their ordinary cooker with this bold piece of machinery, and often many make the purchase without realising that owning an Aga means changing the way you cook – for the better. The story of the AGA cooker is one of award-winning innovation and a proud heritage stretching back to 1922 when Dr Gustaf Dalén, a world renowned physicist and Nobel Prize winner, lost his sight following an explosion during an experiment. Confined to his home, he learned how his wife and maid were chained to an old fashioned stove, constantly having to watch over the food as it cooked. With the simple desire to create an efficient stove that would free his wife

from the domestic drudgery associated with the highly inefficient, expensive and often dangerous stoves of the day, Dalén created a cooker that has become one of the greatest culinary inventions, as well as considered a must sort after stylish addition to the family home. Understanding that cooking with an Aga can be daunting, Aga hosts themed open days and classes all year round providing the perfect opportunity for potential buyers and owners to taste the amazing food that the Aga produces, ask the Aga experts any questions about the Aga and pick up some handy recipe hints and tips. With the London branches situated in Marylebone High Street and Knightsbridge, the London Aga shops offer a range of friendly and supportive options to help you use your Aga or make that all important decision to invest in one. A Day in the Life of an Aga is a class that whether you are completely new to Aga or just want to brush up on your Aga skills, will provide you with fantastic tips for getting the best out of your cooker. Taking you through a whole day of cooking, experts will take a small group of Aga lovers and

show them the basics of using an Aga, the Aga breakfast, the perfect Sunday roasts and fantastic shortcuts. However, understanding that perhaps some clients will work better in a one-on-one tutorial, both Aga stores offer the chance to book a private class which can be arranged by calling the shop to book an appropriate time. The classes will show that despite the design, shape and build of the Aga cooker having changed very little since its invention it is still easy to use and produces top quality food. The classes will help you to see how the Aga treats food differently. It doesn’t blast food with drying direct heat, but instead, radiant heat from the cast-iron ovens gently cooks food, locking in flavour, moisture and goodness. It is also a healthy way of cooking because it stores heat which means that less fat is needed for cooking and you don’t need to stand over a stove all day waiting for everything to cook. Thinking of everything, the Marylebone (and the Knightsbridge) branch has created Christmas themed classes this November and December to make sure that the festive period is as stress-free as possible. Classes such as a Day in the Life – with a Festive Twist, will cover the basics as well as talking turkey. And Relax it’s only Christmas is the perfect run through of everything you will need for the big day: quick snacks, the turkey and trimmings and even what to do with the leftovers and is a must for those who want to feel confident using their Aga. So, with so much help and guidance from the Aga store, you are guaranteed to rediscover your enjoyment for cooking, with your Aga becoming part of your family life and allowing you to be part of the Aga family as well. n www.aga-web.co.uk

Discover the perfect AGA for your home

ith its timeless lines and unparalleled cooking abilities, itÕs easy to see why an AGA is at the heart of your home.

Available in a variety of sizes and fuels, including 13amp electric, a range of 11 exciting colours and a variety of ways to tailor it to your needs, today’s AGA is a perfect fit for every style of kitchen. Our new AIMS programmer gives you greater control over your AGA, allowing your AGA to be as flexible as your lifestyle, more energy efficient and reducing running costs. With a full range of AGA models, stunning refrigeration products, exceptional cookware and dedicated AGA cookery courses, thereÕs a whole range of delicious reasons to visit us.

Contact us TODAY to arrange your FREE home survey. AGA Knightsbridge, 5 Beauchamp Place London SW3 1NG Tel: 0207 589 6379 Email: knightsbridge@aga-web.co.uk AGA Marylebone, 74-75 Marylebone High Street London W1U 5JW Tel: 0207 258 9995 Email: marylebone@aga-web.co.uk

www.aga-web.co.uk

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The visual appeal and calm spacious atmosphere of the Laboratory Spa & Health Clubs says more about their professionalism than words could convey...â&#x20AC;? Evening Standard

Last chance to join before waiting list. For more information please contact us: Hendon Hall Lane NW4 4TJ t: 020 8201 5500 Muswell Hill The Avenue N10 2QE t: 020 8482 3000 membership@labspa.co.uk www.labspa.co.uk

health & beauty

concierge

MUST-HAVE ITEM

health & beauty

news GET SOME NUTS This Christmas, Aveda has teamed up with Hope for Women (a fair-trade organisation, which provides sustainable employment for women worldwide) to launch five limited edition gift sets. Inspired by the tagua nut, they are not only gift sets with a difference, but that will make a difference. The gift sets feature favourites from the Aveda range, along with a specially designed tagua nut hair band, created by artisans in Bogota, and packaged in a reusable gift box featuring a design inspired by the nut. The project engages women local to the rainforests of Columbia, providing a source of fairly paid income, but also an incentive for local forest inhabitants to see the potential and benefits from protecting the rainforest. As a result, this project helps to support 400 families and also to preserve 400 acres of rainforest.

Look divine this winter, with a new campaign from luxury cosmetic brand, L’Occitane. Focusing on a range of unique products that contain the amazing Immortelle flower, which has the extraordinary power never to fade, and Myrtle essential oil, which is a great source of vitality, the new products promise to be bestsellers, just like the popular Divine Cream (£62) known for its anti-aging effect on skin. The Divine Extract (£65) is a new serum (with Immortelle and Myrtle essential oils) that helps maintain visibly younger looking skin and has an almost immediate beautifying effect. Divine Eyes (£45) is a smooth eye cream, which combats puffiness and dark spots, and fights all the signs of ageing around the eyes. For a limited time only, look out for a special offer at L’Occitane boutiques, where customers will receive a FREE Divine Vanity Case (worth £30) when they buy the Divine Cream or Divine Extract. uk.loccitane.com

0870 034 2380, www.aveda.co.uk

treatment of the month: The Hydrafacial

With the cold months upon us we’re all struggling to keep our skin feeling refreshed and moisturised. Lotions and potions don’t seem to ever fulfil their promise of an ‘unblemished and replenished complexion’. However, celebrity cosmetic surgeon Alex Karidis, has created the perfect non-invasive treatment that will give you instant results without any pain.

The Hydrafacial has the unique ability to remove dead skin cells while bathing the new skin with moisture. The treatment is more effective than aggressive chemical peels, and the results are immediately visible, with benefits such as clearing up uneven skin tones, improving the appearance of congested pores, fine lines and wrinkles and acne-prone skin. The Hydrafacial takes only half an hour and combines specially formulated serums with a vacuum-based skin abrasion tip. Whilst the mini vacuum-like tip removes dead skin cells and impurities, it also gently exfoliates the skin while the antioxidant serums cleanse and moisturise. A favourite with celebrities such as Eva Mendes, Sophie Dahl and Beyonce, a series of just six treatments is recommended for achieving the perfect complexion, although a visible difference can be seen after the first session, just in time for that Christmas party! Hospital of St John & St Elizabeth www.hje.org.uk

Flirty Flush Flushed, rosy cheeks appeared all over the Autumn/Winter catwalks. This Mad Men-inspired look is softer than standard blush, with colour which appears to radiate through the skin. The new Becca Beach Tint is easy to apply and blend with fingertips or a brush, whilst the awarding-winning Becca Crème Blush has a silky texture that melts into the skin, creating a natural looking finish. The Becca Kabuki brushes work well for blusher; densely packed with super-soft hairs, the brushes “buff” the pigments into the skin, creating a really light and even coverage. Start by locating the “apples” of your cheeks, which is where you would blush naturally. Swirl the Kabuki brush into the crème blusher, and then onto the back of your hand to work the pigments into the bristles. Apply blush just to the apples of your cheeks and then blend out with your fingertips. Keep the colour low on your cheeks to give a gently flushed rather than contoured look. www.beccacosmetics.com

Brought to you in association with The Wellington Hospital, one of the world’s leading private hospitals. www.thewellingtonhospital.com

THE SILENT KILLER High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is often considered a silent killer. If left untreated, people suffering from this condition can develop serious complications. The experts at The Wellington Hospital take a closer look at the dangers

Your blood pressure levels will vary during the day, that’s only natural as the stresses and strains of life take their toll. That said, anyone can develop high blood pressure and it doesn’t have an obvious cause. Hence it has been labelled the silent killer and deserves more attention than it typically receives. A common condition, high blood pressure is said to affect one in three adults in England. What is more alarming is that an estimated 18 per cent of adult men and 13 per cent of adult women have high blood pressure but are not getting treatment for it. According to NHS statistics, in 90 to 95 per cent of cases, there is no single identifiable reason for a rise in blood pressure, however all available evidence shows that lifestyle plays a significant role in regulating your blood pressure; age, poor diet, lack of exercise, being overweight and excessive alcohol. Intrinsically linked to these lifestyle factors and high blood pressure is

How can I tell if I have high blood pressure? You may feel perfectly well, as high blood pressure usually causes no symptoms and generally will go undiscovered until a doctor happens to take your blood pressure. If you have very high blood pressure you may experience dizziness, headaches, blurred vision and possible breathlessness. The only way you can tell for sure if you have high blood pressure is to have it measured by your doctor. The Wellington Hospital experts will be running a drop-in event on Wednesday 1st December at St John’s Wood library to check your blood pressure for you and answer any questions you may have.

high blood cholesterol, and the UK population has one of the highest average cholesterol concentrations in the world. “From the evidence available to us today, it is apparent that heart diseases are not caused by a single factor, but rather a combination of them,” says Dr Al-Obaidi, consultant cardiologist at The Wellington Hospital. “Whilst there are factors that at the moment we cannot influence, for example familial tendencies, there are many treatable disorders and lifestyle changes that could make a substantial impact on the development of heart disease. Lifestyle changes are at the forefront of any measure to reduce heart illness, including healthy diet, regular exercise and sensible drinking. There are also conditions where medicines could be required. The commonest of these are high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels. “My advice to people who have heart problems is that there is a whole variety of options and treatments which can restore your lifestyle to normal, and my advice to people without a heart illness is don’t wait for it to happen, act now and we can help you avoid it.” What are the dangers of having high blood pressure? High blood pressure in itself is not a disease, but it can cause serious health problems such as, heart disease and strokes. You are also more likely to suffer from kidney damage or failure. One of the most common and lifethreatening complications of high

blood pressure is the damage caused to the brain. High blood pressure can affect the normal flow of blood to the brain, which in turn can lead to various complications. This includes transient ischemic attack (TIA) or ministroke, which can be an indicator of a more severe stroke in the future. Other problems are strokes, dementia and cognitive impairment. High blood pressure is also one of the main risk factors, as far as heart attacks and heart failure is concerned. The consistent strain on the heart muscles, due to high blood pressure, may weaken them causing arrhythmias and may also cause heart failure over the course of time. Dangers of high blood pressure are not mild symptoms, but are very severe conditions, which can sometimes have serious or fatal results. High blood pressure is on the increase, don’t get caught out. For more information call The Wellington Hospital Enquiry Line on 020 7483 5148 or visit www.thewellingtonhospital.com

Dr Al-Obaidi is a Consultant Cardiologist at The Wellington Hospital. His postgraduate research was undertaken at the National Heart and Lung Institute and his specialist training at the Royal Brompton and Harefield hospitals. His practice encompasses patients with a variety of heart disorders, including coronary artery disease, heart failure and patients requiring pacemaker implantation.

HELPING YOU MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICE

Our service is designed with you in mind

The Wellington Hospital is one of the world’s leading priv

Varicose veins are a common condition, resulting in many with an international reputation for the excelle hospitals symptoms in addition to their cosmetic nature.

of its medical care. It is part of HCA – London’s No 1 priva

group. It provides a wide range of acute medical Many patients with varicose veins however, may hospital not be accepted for treatment under the National Health Service.supported by the very latest diagnostic, imaging and treao The Wellington Hospital is one

hospitals with international The Wellington is one ofanthe world’s lead technology, enabling fast andHospital accurate diagnosis of comp

Our Internationally renowned consultants and multi-disciplinary its medical reputation care. It is part hospitals withfacilities an of international for of theH conditions. include: teams offer you treatment of the highest standard, with the State-of-the-art hospital group. It provides a wid of its medical care. It is part of HCA – London’s No peace of mind of knowing you are in safe hands.

supported by the very latest dia

hospital group. It provides a wide range of acute • 6 4 slice CT scanners able to provide images of the heart and its assoc enabling fast and ac supported by the technology, very latest diagnostic, imaging blood vessels with higher definition than before The Vascular Unit offer procedures from minor cosmetic conditions. facil technology, enabling fast andState-of-the-art accurate diagnosis treatments through to more specialist surgical procedures • the latest MRI scanners; the full range of x-ray and ultrasound, angiog conditions. State-of-the-art facilities include: including: • 64 slice CT scanners able to provide fluoroscopy plus a cardiac research centre

Venous Assessment with duplex scanning

•

• Classical Varicose Vein Surgery • VNUS Radio Frequency

•

• Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT) • Injection Sclerotherapy

•

blood vessels with higher definition t • 6 4 slice CT scanners able to provide images of the heart an blood vessels with higher definition than before endoscopic ultrasound facilities enabling gastroenterologists to empl • the latest MRI scanners; the full range latest diagnostic & treatment techniques, including capsule endoscop fluoroscopy plus a cardiac research c • the latest MRI scanners; the full range of x-ray and ultrasou fluoroscopy plus a cardiac research centre • endoscopic ultrasound facilities enab a range of minimally invasive surgical procedures that are performed latest diagnostic & treatment techniq • endoscopic ultrasound facilities enabling gastroenterologis one incision in the belly button, which is virtually scarless surgery latest diagnostic & treatment techniques, including capsule • a range of minimally invasive surgica a 45-bedroom Acute Neuro Rehabilitation Unit, which is the best equ one incision in the belly button, whic • a range of minimally invasive surgical procedures that are p and most extensive in the UK one incision in the belly button, which is virtually scarless su • a 45-bedroom Acute Neuro Rehabilit and most extensive in the UK the largest Critical Care facility in the private sector • a 45-bedroom Acute Neuro Rehabilitation Unit, which is the and most extensive in the UK • the largest Critical Care facility in the

Take the first step to a new you The hospital has a dedicated GP Liaison service giving GPs and pa • the largest Critical Care facility in the private sector The hospital has a dedicated GP Liai easy, fast access to the hospital’s extensive services & facilities. F by calling our team today easy, fast access to the hospital’s ex

further information please contact the Helpline: The hospital has a dedicated GP Liaison service giving G

Tel:

further information please contact t easy, fast access to the hospital’s extensive services & fa 020 7483 5148 Tel: 020 7483 5148 further information please contact the Helpline:

Fax:

020 7483 5618 Fax: Tel: 020 7483 5148

020 7483 5618

Email: wellington.enquiryhelpline@h Fax: 020 7483 5618 Email: wellington.enquiryhelpline@hcahealthcare.co.uk

www.thewellingtonhosp Email: wellington.enquiryhelpline@hcahealthcare.co.uk www.thewellingtonhospital.com www.thewellingtonvascularunit.com

www.thewellingtonhospital.com Wellington Place, St Johns Wood

Wellington Place, St Johns Wood, London NW8 9LE

Wellington Place, St Johns Wood, London NW8 9L

The Contact Lens Clinic

Arnott eye associates

Your Comprehensive Private Eye Clinic

s in Do you have difficulty reading a newspaper or using a computer? Are you tired of wearing two different pairs of specs or wearing reading specs over your contact lenses? Arnott Eye Associates are offering a half price contact lens consultation and a free trial ofÂ multifocal contact lenses until Christmas. A consultation with our contact lens practitioners will establish if you are suitable for these lenses as well as examining your eye health and glasses prescription.

Whether you wear contact lenses already or would like to investigate an alternative, an upgrade to multifocal contact lenses could mean an end to reading glasses.

Please contact our contact lens practitioners Elaine Lucas, Richard Walsh, and Raj Bharaj at: Arnott Eye Associates, 22a Harley Street, London WIG 9BP Tel:Â 0207 580 1074 Fax 020 7 255 1524 Email: arnotteyecontacts@gmail.com

VARICOSE VEINS: NOT ALL VANITY Tackling one of the most common health complaints in the UK, the Vascular Unit at The Wellington Hospital is on hand to help if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re one of the thousands suffering from varicose veins

Many women are all too aware of those unsightly protuberant veins blurring what once were smooth, attractive legs. What are these veins, and why the sudden breakout? Perhaps more importantly, are our concerns driven by vanity or could they be omens of ill health? And crucially, is it possible to reclaim our legs with minimal inconvenience? Varicose veins are swollen, visible bluish/purple veins, which can occur anywhere but are most common in the legs. Around one third of adults will have them, increasing as we get older, and women are more affected, often associated with pregnancy and influenced by hormones. It is possible that if unattended, they worsen and may damage skin irreversibly. Venous blood from the legs flows slowly upwards against gravity, carrying used blood to the heart and lungs for re-oxygenation. It relies on a one-way valve system to keep the flow towards the heart, but when these valves fail repeatedly (for whatever reason,

including vein wall weakness), the leakage causes accumulation of venous blood, pressurising and stretching the veins causing them to become swollen and unsightly. Varicose veins only affect humans as the result of our erect posture. There is a familial tendency, and they are also more likely to occur and worsen as we get older. There are some cases in which they cause leg aching and swelling especially after standing for long or at the end of the day. Itching, cramps, heaviness and restless legs are also common complaints. The veins may also cause inflammation (phlebitis), bleeding, leg swelling, eczema, dark brown staining/discolouration of the legs and thickening of the skin which may be permanent. Although varicose veins are not lifethreatening, this does not mean that they should be ignored. If they are causing any symptoms or complications, they should be treated. Vascular surgeons at The Wellington Hospital are experts in this area and available for specialist advice and treatment. Simple advice or compression stockings may be sufficient for minor cosmetic veins causing no symptoms although they will not disappear; avoidance of prolonged standing and elevating the leg at the end of the day may also prove helpful. Classical surgery involves a small

incision to the groin or sometimes behind the knee to divide and strip out the damaged saphenous vein before removing the daughter varicose veins. This is an excellent operation in expert hands using small incisions under general anaesthesia. More recently many veins can now be sealed with laser or radiofrequency (RF) catheters. This needle-hole method is effective and avoids the need for incisions. Under ultrasound guidance, the vein is entered with the laser or RF wire which when activated seals the major varicose vein â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and the procedure can be performed under local anaesthetic. However not all veins can be treated completely in this way. Thread and spider veins may be injected via very fine microneedles to close them down with the procedure (sclerotherapy) performed in the outpatient clinic. It is effective, but may require repeated sessions to achieve a final satisfactory result. In summary, varicose veins are common, unsightly can be uncomfortable and may worsen over time. Stockings and leg elevation may help but will not cure and will be needed indefinitely. Modern surgical techniques are minimally invasive, quick and effective (even the classical stripping procedure is now performed through smaller incisions). The expert venous surgeons at The Wellington will be able to advise you as to which is the best procedure for you allowing a prompt return to the life and legs we all desire. For further information and for details of the consultants carrying out this procedure at The Wellington Hospital, contact the Enquiry Line on 020 7483 5148 or visit www.thewellingtonvascularunit.com

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BENTLEY beauty latest gizmos ..................................................... NFL SHOWDOWN ......................................

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A Golfer’s PARADISE

A Sun, sea, exclusivity and your own two-hole golf course

s one of the most exclusive islands in the world, Mustique features a wide collection of designer villas, each with their own individual appeal. For golfing enthusiasts, Shogun, one of Mustique’s most famous signature villas, offers its very own two-hole, nine-tee golf course, so there’s no excuse to let your handicap go whilst on holiday. Situated 300 feet above Britannia Bay, it is surrounded by five acres of landscaped gardens and its very own mini-course, overlooking the clear blue waters below.

The nine tees situated throughout the beautifully landscaped course allow for 18 different approaches to the two holes – creating the illusion of a full course right on your doorstep! Incorporating sand bunkers, hills and clever landscaping, the course is designed to challenge even the most proficient golfer and with half the arduous walk of a normal course. The rates for a week’s stay in Shogun’s “Little Shogun” start at US$10,000. n For further information, visit www.mustique-island.com

CONTINENTAL

take two It’s a case of ‘meet the new boss, same as the old boss’, according to Matthew Carter. This, believe it or not, is the all-new Bentley Continental GT, though the casual observer might be hard pushed to tell the difference between old and new

motoring

calibre

PremiĂ&#x2C6;re Velocity

The most prestigious cars in the world for hire

A convenient, hassle free way to drive the finest prestige marques and 4x4 vehicles to grace our roads, from the quirky to the refined, from executive comfort to raw power with delivery and collection to anywhere in the UK and Europe at request Chauffeuring and close protection also available. SAMPLE LIST OF AVAILABLE CARS

Vehicle Ferrari 458 Italia

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Ferrari F430 Spyder

545

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445

Audi R8 V10 Spyder

545

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Aston Martin DB9 Volante

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Range Rover Vogue

245

Range Rover Sport

225

Mercedes CL500 AMG

295

Mercedes S Class Brabus

295

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*minimum age requirement of 25 years. Complete stock list with pricing available online. See terms and conditions applicable to all hire contracts.

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gadgets

Jamie Carter presents the month’s hottest gadgets

Audio engine room If your music collection is now stored on a PC or a Mac – and the only CD drive you have left is in your computer – prepare for a serious upgrade. Straddling two hitherto separate markets, this all-in-one digital doit-all hi-fi from British manufacturer

Arcam is a relatively rare effort to please both serious audiophiles and those of us after a top-quality home audio system that can handle anything thrown its way – including an iPod/ iPhone and the contents of a computer. At its core, this is traditional hi-fi, albeit one with a built-in (rather than separate) amplifier. There’s a CD player and an FM radio, though nods to modernity comprise a DAB radio tuner and a Wi-Fi connection that sees the Neo Solo able to stream tunes from both a PC or a Mac, as well as internet radio stations and podcasts. There will be some who wonder what the fuss is about – surely modern iPod dock-cum-speakers do a similar job for around the £50 mark? The wondering stops when you switch on the Solo Neo; deep, involving bass is picked out by the Solo Neo and combined with the kind of treble detailing of a standard that many just won’t have come across before. To be party to the kind of lush sonics the Solo Neo is capable of, you will have to add your own speakers and, if you’re felling flush, a subwoofer isn’t a bad idea either (the rear houses pre-out ports to attach the unit to a sub). Monitor Audio’s fabulous BX Series

bookshelf speakers – reviewed opposite – ought to do the trick. For all its skills and qualities, the Solo Neo’s interface needs a refresh – or perhaps an iPhone app – to bring simplicity to this occasionally frustrating hi-fi, because beyond its reference-grade sonics there’s a feeling that features have been added, but not integrated, to the Solo experience. The remote control is the low point; it’s of reasonable build and layout, but the buttons are too small and sport labels that can be tricky to identify at quick glance. Worse, its commands are sluggishly picked up by the main unit, which can be frustrating. Those after a serious solution for an iPod should add Arcam’s irDock (£150), an inexpensive addition that can accept – and charge – any Apple device. Those with other MP3 devices need not worry – there’s a port for those, too – alongside a USB slot that can play virtually any music file from a memory stick, including lossless formats. It’s not cheap, but this is a serious hi-fi that delivers the kind of audio you won’t have heard for a while if an iPod dock or computer has been your sole sound system; Arcam’s minimalist, but comprehensive Solo Neo lets you grow up gracefully.

Arcam Solo Neo all-in-one hi-fi & streamer £1,349 www.arcam.co.uk

new gadgets

Fujifilm FinePix W3 3D stills & video camera, £449 www.fujifilm.co.uk

Philips 19PFL3405 19inch LED TV, £208.40 www.multizoneav.com

Apple iPod Touch 64GB, £329 www.apple.com/uk

The Wellington Hospital is one of the world’s leading privat

hospitals with an international reputation for the excellenc

of its medical care. It is part of HCA – London’s No 1 private

hospital group. It provides a wide range of acute medical se

supported by the very latest diagnostic, imaging and treatm The Wellington Hospital is one of

hospitals with international rep The Wellington is one ofanthe world’s leadin technology, enabling fast andHospital accurate diagnosis of comple

of its medical care. It is part of HC

hospitals withfacilities an international reputation for the ex conditions. State-of-the-art include:

hospital group. It provides a wide of its medical care. It is part of HCA – London’s No 1

supported by the very latest diagn

hospital group. It provides a wide range of acute me • 6 4 slice CT scanners able to provide images of the heart and its associa enabling fast and accu supported by the technology, very latest diagnostic, imaging an blood vessels with higher definition than before

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• 64 slice CT scanners able to provide ima fluoroscopy plus a cardiac research centre

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Date: Wednesday 1st December Time: Drop in between 2pm - 4pm

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Location:

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No appointment necessary

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For more information call: Wellington Events Line on 0207 483 5148

•

blood vessels with higher definition than • 6 4 slice CT scanners able to provide images of the heart and i blood vessels with higher definition than before endoscopic ultrasound facilities enabling gastroenterologists to employ • the latest MRI scanners; the full range o latest diagnostic & treatment techniques, including capsule endoscopy fluoroscopy plus a cardiac research cent Come along and have your blood pressure and • the latest MRI scanners; the full range of x-ray and ultrasound, blood sugar level tested for free by our Consultant fluoroscopy plus a cardiac research centre • endoscopic ultrasound facilities enablin a range of minimally invasive surgical procedures that are performed th Cardiologist Dr Mohamed Al-Obaidi, and specialist latest diagnostic & treatment technique • endoscopic ultrasound facilities enabling gastroenterologists t one incision in the belly button, which is virtually scarless surgery nurses from Thelatest diagnostic & treatment techniques, including capsule en Wellington Hospital. • a range of minimally invasive surgical pr a 45-bedroom Acute Neuro Rehabilitation Unit, which is the best equipp one incision in the belly button, which is • a range of minimally invasive surgical procedures that are perf Your results can be given to you instantly and light and most extensive in the UK one incision in the belly button, which is virtually scarless surg refreshments will be provided • a 45-bedroom Acute Neuro Rehabilitati and most extensive in the UK the largest Critical Care facility in the private sector • a 45-bedroom Acute Neuro Rehabilitation Unit, which is the b and most extensive in the UK • the largest Critical Care facility in the pr

The hospital has a dedicated GP Liaison service giving GPs and pati • tonly he largest Critical Care facility in the private sector (These tests can be offered to those over The hospital has a dedicated GP Liaiso easy, fast access to the hospital’s extensive services & facilities. For the age of 18) easy, fast access to the hospital’s exten further information please contact the Helpline: The hospital has a dedicated GP Liaison service giving GPs

Tel:

further information please contact the easy, fast access to the hospital’s extensive services & facil 020 7483 5148 Tel: 020 7483 5148 further information please contact the Helpline:

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020 7483 5618 Fax: Tel: 020 7483 5148

020 7483 5618

Email: wellington.enquiryhelpline@hca Fax: 020 7483 5618 Email: wellington.enquiryhelpline@hcahealthcare.co.uk

www.thewellingtonhospita Email: wellington.enquiryhelpline@hcahealthcare.co.uk www.thewellingtonhospital.com www.thewellingtoncardiacservices.com www.thewellingtonhospital.com Wellington Place, St Johns Wood,

Wellington Place, St Johns Wood, London NW8 9LE

sport

calibre

Go For Gold

sports

news

Ready to Ruck Following a successful tour of Australia this summer, Martin Johnson’s England team squares up with the very best in world rugby for the 2010 Investec Internationals. Investec’s 11th year as title sponsor sees New Zealand, Australia, Samoa and South Africa all visit Twickenham in four compelling fixtures that will be a formidable test for England’s stamina and their last competitive matches before the Six Nations start next February. www.rfu.com

The countdown has begun to one of the most prestigious and thrilling jump races in horse racing, the Hennessy Gold Cup at Newbury Racecourse from 25–27 November. All eyes turn to the racetrack on Saturday, as excitement builds over the previous two days of the Winter Festival. Last year the atmosphere was electric, with huge crowds cheering Newbury favourite Denman and jockey Ruby Walsh home. www.newbury-racecourse.co.uk

Say what?

Beating guys like Roger, beating guys like Rafa (Nadal) gives you confidence that when you do play them in the big tournaments you will beat them.

Andy Murray inches closer to a Grand Slam title after his victory over Roger Federer in the Shanghai Masters final

Top Spin Last year the internationally acclaimed London début of the Barclays ATP World Tour Finals set an all-time indoor tennis attendance record of 256,000 fans over eight days. New and improved for 2010, this epic clash of tennis titans features only the world’s best eight singles players and doubles teams in the theatrical spotlight of The O2. www.barclaysatpworldtourfinals.com

Deep Impact One of the most advanced divers watches in the world, Christopher Ward’s C600 Tri-Tech™ Diver Elite Automatic has a helium release valve, which automatically protects it from extreme changes in pressure as well as GTLS technology, enabling it to glow in the dark for 25 years without being charged. Water resistant to 500m (50 ATM) – considerably deeper than the world record for the deepest scuba dive – this is both a boy’s toy and essential wear for the big deep. www.christopherward.co.uk

sport

calibre

America on the offensive The razzmatazz of the National Football League has long enjoyed a big and loyal following within the United States but, as Lee Brooks discovers, it won’t be long before us Brits are just as captivated…

merican football, by definition, is not something you would immediately associate with the UK. After all, we have our own version of the game in the form of the Premier League. But, thanks to some entrepreneurial types at the National Football League in the United States, American football has crossed the pond and made quite an impact. The National Football League (NFL) was created in 1920 with 11 teams from across the United States competing in front of a handful of fans. Since then, an average of 67,000 fans attend each game during the season, with the sport’s showpiece event – the Super Bowl, which determines the league’s champion – attracting 91 million people across the USA. Once you understand the rules, American football is pretty easy to follow. Each game lasts 60 minutes, which is split into four 15-minute quarters. The Americans always want a winner, so should the teams be level at the final whistle, the game will go into overtime where the first team to score wins. Unlike football and rugby union, teams can make an unlimited number of substitutions during a game and the coach has access to a full squad of 52 players. Rather than defence, midfield and forwards, an NFL team is split into defence, offence and special teams with only one position on the field at a time. For example, if one team has possession, they will send out their offensive unit while their opponents will send out their defence. Then if there’s a kicking play, the special teams will be used. So with the coaches regularly turning over their squad, it’s no surprise games regularly take in excess of two and a half hours to complete, because the clock stops every time there’s a change. There are four ways to score points in American football. First, there’s a field goal, which is similar to a penalty kick in rugby and worth three points. Secondly, a touchdown, which is much like a try in rugby union, is worth six points. Thirdly, a conversion, which scores one point for a successful field goal-kick or two points should the team successfully run the ball into the end zone. And lastly, two points are awarded for a safety when an offensive player is tackled inside his own end zone.

Two things the Premier League and Aviva Premiership may want to introduce are the NFL’s timeout and coach’s challenge rules. Like many American sports, each team can call a timeout, which stops the clock. You get three timeouts per half and they are usually used to discuss tactics, break up the opposition’s rhythm or simply give your team a rest. The other rule is the coach’s challenge whereby, as the name suggests, a coach can challenge an official’s decision by throwing a red flag onto the pitch. Should the challenge be successful, the decision is overruled. The sport first hit the UK screens back in the early 1980s, when Channel 4 screened a weekly highlights package and it proved to be a huge hit with the San Francisco 49ers and Washington Redskins enjoying unprecedented support from this side of the Atlantic. As a result, in 2007, the NFL decided to bring a regular season game over to the UK and has since never looked back. Each game, including last month’s game between the San Francisco 49ers and the Denver Broncos, has taken place at Wembley Stadium and has always sold out, with demand rumoured to be three times the capacity. At Wembley fans got the chance to experience the excitement and game day experience as it would be in the USA, from the pep rallies and tailgate parties outside the stadium through to the cheerleaders and carnival atmosphere, which runs parallel to an intriguing game on the field. Should this success continue, the NFL hopes to launch an international academy for around 80 players, which would be based at the University of Bath. Players would get their accommodation and tuition paid for in a scheme similar to the US college scholarship system. For too long, the NFL has been focused on its profile within the US with little more than a token nod to American Football leagues across Europe; however, with five British players currently signed up to NFL teams in America, talk of more regular season games being hosted in the UK and maybe even the season ending Super Bowl crossing the pond, the game is finally putting down roots outside the US as it bids to topple football, rugby and Formula 1 as the world’s leading sports. n

feature TIME FOR CHRISTMAS travel eco- scarlet food & drink the landmark .......................

..................................................................... ...........................

GOING FOR GOLD

T The creative flair of Dolce & Gabbana combines with the master artisans at Martini to bring us Martini Gold

he release of Martini Gold continues the collaboration with Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana, which began more than ten years ago and has been consolidated through various initiatives, from the opening of the Martini Bar inside Dolce & Gabbana boutiques to the Martini-inspired Dolce & Gabbana suit cut. “We share common values and pride in our Italian roots. This is the first time we have worked on a project like this and we are very pleased with the result; a new product that combines the soul of our world and world of

Martini,” said Dolce & Gabbana. The complex aroma of the new creation includes essences of sweet-scented bergamot, lemon, orange, saffron, myrrh, ginger and cubeb pepper, combining these seductive spices and Mediterranean aromas for a unique taste – on the rocks or as a cocktail. The packaging has been D&G designed too, and watch out for the advertising campaign directed by Madonna’s favourite, Jonas Åkerlund, and showcasing Italian actress Monica Bellucci. n www.martinigold.com

Time for Christmas is only 24 hours, so you have to make the most of it, right? But if you think about it, children in Alaska are suffering a sleepless night, trying to catch a glimpse of Father Christmas, whilst we are still rushing around for last-minute presents. So really, for the internationally minded, there is no reason why the Christmas celebrations can’t just keep rolling on…

15:00 GMT, 24 December

21:00 GMT, 24 December

Japan

Russia

Displaying all the elegance and attention to detail that Japan is famous for, this intricately painted puzzle shows a beautiful geisha, with the jigsaw pieces whimsically cut in interesting shapes. Made from sustainably sourced wood, the puzzle is a limited edition, packaged in a black velvet bag and cherry wood box, with a brass plaque, which can be engraved to make your gift that little bit more personalised.

As Christmas kicks in, so too no doubt will the vodka, all across the vast icy, landscape of Russia. For a more refined and utterly indulgent version of the Slavs’ favourite thirst quencher, look no further than Black Moth. Infused with black Périgord truffles, Black Moth is unique not only for its chic bottle, but also for its delicate and distinct flavour, making it a great gift for gourmets and style mavens alike.

The Kogane Geisha Girl by Haruyo Morita, £99.95 www.wentworthpuzzles.co.uk.

Black Moth Vodka, £39.95 www.blackmothvodka.com

christmas

connoisseur

22:00 GMT, 24 December

23:00 GMT, 24 December

Zimbabwe

Germany

Inspired by the wondrous landscape and wildlife of his native Zimbabwe, designer Patrick Mavros creates interesting and unique sculptured pieces in silver. Great gift options include cute coffee and cocktail spoons, each tipped with a different curiosity and grandiose candelabras, sculptured in the shape of resplendent African trees.

Inspired by the fatal attraction of the wicked witch’s gingerbread cottage in the story of Hansel and Gretel, decadently adorned gingerbread houses are a Christmas tradition in Germany that children and sweet-toothed adults always look forward to. This updated version from Fortnum & Mason’s contains chocolate biscuit and a whole host of colourful sweets, for creative children to make their own fairytale treat.

Coffee Spoons, £50 each Candelabras, from £950 www.patrickmavros.com

Enchanted Cottage, £35 www.fortnumandmason.com

05:00 GMT, 25 December

10:00 GMT, 25 December

Cuba

Tahiti

A Cuban cigar enthusiast needs tools worthy of this most extravagant of luxuries. This impressive cigar cutter is made by Purdey & Sons, London’s finest gun makers (and one of the world’s oldest), and purveyors to the Royal Family since 1838. The cutter is made with coin finish steel, embellished with hand-cut traditional gun engraving, with screws blued using a traditional gun maker’s process.

Combining tropical glamour with European elegance, these iridescent Tahitian pearls are available from pearl specialist Milleperle in the Royal Exchange. These beautiful pearls are set in 18kt white gold with pavé diamonds, to make this seriously chic necklace. Matching earrings also available. Tahitian pearl necklace, £20,650 www.milleperle.co.uk

Cigar Cutter, £1,075 www.purdey.com

connoisseur christmas

Time for Stocking fillers

for kids

Need inspiration, instead of buying the same old toys? Try these unique and personal gifts for your little treasures

For Stig wannabes Who could resist the allure of driving a real-life Ferrari? If your petrolhead wants to be the next Lewis Hamilton then this is the perfect Christmas gift to surprise them with. Experiencing the fun and excitement of driving a world famous Ferrari around a top racing circuit, all drivers are under the supervision of an Ards registered instructor. They will learn racing skills and essential driving techniques, finishing up with the godfather of supercars, the powerful 400bhp engine which they will enjoy driving for three unforgettable laps. £75 www.buyagift.co.uk

For little ones If you are looking for a present for a little one that is personal and unique then look no further than online boutique www.my1styears. com. With fashionable but affordable, personal gifts for babies the website offers everything from baby clothes, shoes to blankets and teddy bears, all with space to inscribe a message of love onto it. The process is simple and can all be done via the website which gives you the option of choosing the text, colour and font. We adore this personalised bib for your little ones first Christmas. www.my1styears.com

For story tellers Forget computer games and DVDs, this new innovative game for children aged six and above is the ultimate way to get your kids –and you – using your imagination. Rory’s Story Cubes is a game with no rules and comprises of nine dice, each with six pictures on them. Roll the dice and create a story from the nine images, starting with ‘Once upon a time.’ Children can play alone or with friends and it’s the perfect game to get the whole family involved this Christmas. A creative story generator, Rory’s Story Cubes provide hours of imaginative play which allows your child to unleash their creativity. £9 Stockists: www.amazon.co.uk / www.coiledspring.co.uk

declare your

independence

Small independent luxury hotels. Memorable experiences.

Small Luxury Hotels of the Worldâ&#x201E;˘ Book your winter beach escape at www.slh.com/beachescapes

travel

connoisseur

travel

news

AVANT SKI

THAI STYLE

For those who love the idea of a ski holiday, but find the reality a little more daunting or exhausting, The Grove has come up with a novel idea to help you (once and for all) put those show-off friends to shame on the slopes. From this month, The Grove will be holding Avant Ski weekends to help you get in shape, and build your confidence. The weekends will involve special classes designed to strengthen the muscles used in skiing, a day on the slopes at The Snow Centre and an alpine feast to get you in the mood for a little après ski. Avant ski weekends will be taking place on the 5–7 November and on 7–9, 14–16 and 28–30 January.

On 1 November, W Hotels throws open the doors of the W Retreat Koh Samui, the first W Retreat in Southeast Asia. Famed for its gorgeous coastline and tranquil atmosphere, Koh Samui is one of the hottest destinations in the area, and the new W Retreat is set to be a great escape within an oasis of calm on the island. Set along the island’s beautiful northern coastline, W Retreat will feature 17 luxurious villas, each boasting a secluded beachfront position and fantastic views, in a clean, modern style with touches of local design colour. Neatly capturing the spirit of the island, daytime at W Retreat will allow guests to relax and take time for themselves, whilst the evening will let in a little of the island’s energy and famed love of festivities. www.whotels.com/kohsamui

www.thegrove.co.uk

Travel Fact The popular ski resort of Telluride in Colorado is also the site of the infamous robber Butch Cassidy’s first ever recorded crime. Butch Cassidy robbed the San Miguel Valley Bank in June 1889, making off with almost $25,000.

Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon has come up with a way to explore the city that is as quaint, charming and energised as Lisbon itself: a tour by motor-sidecar. Guests will be sped around Lisbon’s hotspots by a drivercum-English-speaking-guide, and taken to explore the historic Alfama quarter, the spectacular views from St Georges Castle, the riverside district of Belem and its UNESCO listed Tower. Foodies will also delight in trying Portuguese delicacy ‘pasties de nata’ and a visit to the kitchens of Antiga Confeitaria de Belém, where the recipe has been kept secret since 1837.

Website of the month: www.totalaccessworldwide.com

SIDE BY SIDE

Total Access is a recently launched personal travel concierge service, which offers members access to some of the most exclusive and luxurious events and establishments around the world. Members can enjoy access to glamorous events such as London Fashion Week and the Oscars, as well as invitations to élite sporting events and film premieres. Members benefit 24-hour personal Account Manager, to take care of your every whim, wherever in the world you find yourself.

www.fourseasons.com/lisbon

Brought to you in association with Small Luxury Hotels of the World, an unsurpassable collection of over 500 hotels spanning 70 countries, which offer an infinite variety of experiences.

travel

connoisseur

Clockwise from left: Exterior Relaxation terrace Lobby Spa - light relaxtion room Restaurant

For further information, visit www.scarlethotel.co.uk

Double rooms start at £180 per night, for two sharing, including breakfast and VAT.

Getting there: the author flew to Newquay on Air Southwest (airsouthwest.com). The Scarlet is only six miles from the airport.

St John and St Elizabeth

A TRULY UNIQUE WORLD CLASS HOSPITAL Ultimate care in luxury surroundings FINEST MEDICAL CONSULTANTS AND NURSES EVERY VISIT HELPS FUND OUR ON-SITE HOSPICE CHOSEN BY UK’S OLYMPIC ATHLETES

Breast Unit Cardiac & Respiratory Hip & Knee Ophthalmology Paediatric

Sleep Unit Stroke Unit GI Unit Women’s Health Shoulder Unit ENT Hospice

Endoscopy Gynaecology Neurology Pain Unit Physiotherapy Spine Unit

60 Grove End Road, St John’s Wood, London, NW8 9NH Call us on 020 7806 4000 www.hje.org.uk

food & drink

connoisseur

Family Cooking

food & drink

news

High Tea the Cordon Bleu Way!

Childhood sweethearts Juliette Joffe and husband Russel came up with the idea for Giraffe Restaurants while walking on a beach in Israel. A decade later and there are 33 venues around the UK, with three in North London. Now this super-successful chain of family-friendly restaurants has launched its very own cookbook, crammed with over 90 easy-to-follow recipes that echo the restaurant’s own diverse yet healthy menu. £14.99

If you fancy high tea at the bargain price of just £9.95 per person, then head down to 108 Marylebone Lane Restaurant & Bar in the heart of Marylebone Village. However, this is no ordinary tea, presented as it is by none other than the superior pâtisserie students of the renowned culinary school Le Cordon Bleu, located opposite. Demonstrating their creative skills, the students will unveil a spectacular selection of delectable cakes and pastries, including Paris-Brest, Tarte aux Fruits and Strawberry and Champagne Mousse – all hand-crafted to perfection. Freshly baked scones with home-made jam and clotted cream will also be offered to guests, along with a selection of teas and coffees.

www.giraffe.net/cookbook

Bee Happy

020 7969 3900

Did you know that in July 2009 half a million honey bees checked into the Lancaster London Hotel? The first central London Hotel to install beehives on its roof, the Lancaster introduced the beehives as part of its green initiatives and in response to the sharp decline in the bee population which in turn is having a serious effect on food production around the world. The hotel is now delighted to include its very first batch of urban honey on its breakfast/brunch menu at the Island Restaurant & Bar.

www.108marylebonelane.com

020 7551 6070

www.lcblondon.com

www.islandrestaurant.co.uk

NEWS:

Food lingo:

Quote:

At 4.15pm on Sunday 28 November, Hampstead Garden Suburb resident Jonathan Ross and former Arsenal player Robert Pires will be switching on the Hampstead Christmas lights. The ceremony will mark the culmination of a whole afternoon of fun-filled festivities that will begin at 12 noon and will demonstrate the best of what the local community has to offer. Father Christmas will be giving sleigh rides and restaurants and traders will have stalls lining the road. There will also be live entertainment and 101 Dalmatians will be screened for free at the Everyman cinema. All proceeds will go to the Anthony Nolan Trust.

Spoom

When a man’s stomach is full it makes no difference whether he is rich or poor.

Spoom is a frothy, sorbet-like dessert made by combining sugar syrup with uncooked meringue, which gives it its light, frothy texture. The name comes from the Italian ‘spuma’ meaning foam or froth, and if the name alone isn’t enough to get you intrigued, strawberry spoom is supposedly Sidney Poitier’s favourite dessert.

Euripides, Greek tragic poet

Website:

www.pageonelondon.com

Le Cordon Blue Tea Parties only happen monthly, so make sure you put 1 December, 3.30pm, on in your diary now.

Page One comes to the rescue of those fazed, thrown or simply bored by trying to wade their way through the numerous restaurant reviews and recommendations online. Making an answer to the question “where shall we eat tonight?” that much easier, Page One offers reviews of only the 100 most current or noteworthy restaurants in London at any one time, written by a select group of food experts, including prominent critic Fay Maschler.

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food & drink

connoisseur

Sundaydelight Free-flowing champagne, an assortment of delicious food and a relaxing ambience; Jenny White discovers the ideal place to enjoy Sunday brunch

here are many wonderful things about Sunday brunch, such as the fact that brunch is not considered brunch unless it starts after 10am, which in turn provides enough time for a wellearned lie-in. This time guideline is then followed by the tradition that this mid-morning meal should include all the standard breakfast food such as eggs, bacon, sausages, pastries and pancakes, but can also include almost any other type of food served throughout the day – large roasts of meat, seafood, salads and an array of desserts. It is then customary to wash it down with a brunch cocktail or two. Brunch is truly a glorious invention!

So, when I entered the Winter Garden Restaurant at the Landmark Hotel in Marylebone and discovered an indulgent selection of savoury and sweet food and the promise of freeflowing champagne, I realised that I had found a place that truly understood the meaning of brunch. Served in the breathtaking surroundings of the soaring eight-storey glass roof atrium, the lavish Winter Garden was once the historical hotel’s courtyard, where the horse and carriages used to drop off their passengers when it first opened in the early 1900s. Taking place every Sunday, the Landmark Hotel claims to offer the best brunch in the city, with guests treated to a live jazz pianist and champagne in abundance. Within a few moments of arriving and checking out what was on offer, my guest and I were in agreement – this truly was the best brunch in the city. The unlimited buffet offered us the usual choice of eggs and we began our culinary experience here with the Eggs Benedict, which were cooked to perfection, and smoked salmon with scrambled eggs. All washed down with a few refreshing glasses of champagne, we were back and this time we headed for the salad station. Sushi, potato salad, artichokes, palm heart, caper berries and sun blush tomato salad, cold meats, beetroot marinated salmon, seafood salad and the juiciest shrimps, were between us piled onto our plates. Chefs were on hand to help serve and advise what flavours would best work together; however, unless you required help, they were happy to let you do your own thing. The pianist was accompanied by a guitarist and, much to my guest’s delight, knew a whole host of contemporary tunes including Lady Gaga’s Poker Face, as well as a few more traditional jazz songs, suiting everyone’s tastes. Although set in such elegance, the ambience was not at all stuffy and the staff were extremely friendly and attentive.

I never saw the bottom of my champagne glass and, without asking, plates were discreetly cleared away and cutlery replaced, although it never felt that the staff were hovering around us. We felt very at ease and able to enjoy the whole wonderful experience. The offering for the main course was exhaustive with vegetable red curry, Shepherd’s Pie, roast chicken and beef with enormous Yorkshire Puddings, green beans, carrots, roast potatoes and sumptuous duck breasts and a whole host of accompaniments to choose from. Despite a couple of trips to this station, I made sure that I had saved a little bit of room for the pièce de résistance that I had spotted on my way in. The dessert station was something out of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Row upon and row of opulent puddings and tarts, and at the end of the table sat a chocolate fountain surrounded by a multitude of dipping selections. Caramel éclairs, summer pudding, blueberry and white chocolate pyramid, and a glass full of strawberries covered in chocolate sauce all found its way onto my plate and were demolished without a trace. And just when we thought we couldn’t eat any more, the pianist began to play Happy Birthday and a plate of strawberry and almond tartlets plus a candle were placed in front of my guest and all the staff wished her many happy returns – a lovely touch that she continued to talk about for the rest of the afternoon. Three hours later and we were done. Unable to contemplate eating any more, we instead spent the journey home discussing how the array of food had been of the highest standard and checking our diaries for when we were both free to go again – next Sunday? n Brunch is served from 12.30pm to 3.00pm and costs £75 per person 020 7631 8880 www.landmarklondon.co.uk

george clarke

of benefits “…The a basement g creatin t you are tha space so much d can ad itional dd more a re you to whe e m lu o v y n a m so live. In ou can’t y s e s hou ild any arily bu necess any wider, or higher lways u can a on of o y t u b ti p o e th look at wn.” o d g goin

on london basements

“…and I know tha don’t do t if I the base ment I am going to have to move an da I resent d ctually oing that. I resent p aying ou stamp du t the ty, it’s a waste of Stay whe money. re put that in you are vestment money in to th that you’v e place e got and make yo ur house a beautiful home.”

“…and let’s face it, light is everything when it comes to the quality of your house and what I like about really beautiful basements, that have been designed very well, is they feel actually quite intimate and beautiful spaces to be in.”

“...I think whe n it comes to building a ba sement you don’t want to take any risks with a co mpany that’s inexperienced and doesn’t have a long te rm track record. It’s lik e a team of miners going under your house, diggin g out the soil and putti ng new foundations un der your building, you don’t want to take a risk with that and I think Lo ndon Basement, w ithout a doubt are the best company in th eir field.”

Explore possibilities right beneath your feet Call 020 8847 9449 or visit www.londonbasement.co.uk to find out how we can create your extra space

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LONDON Homes&

PROPERTY Showcasing the finest homes in your area

Image courtesy of Camerich www.camerich.co.uk

RUNWILD M

If you would like to appear within the property pages of VANTAGE, contact Kate Oxbrow, property manager on 020 7987 4320 or k.oxbrow@runwildgroup.co.uk

AVENUE ROAD St Johnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wood NW8 An exceptional opportunity to purchase a substantial newly refurbished detached residence with coach house located on the west side of this internationally renowned avenue only moments from both Regentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Park, Primrose Hill and a short drive from the West End.

Redeveloped to an exacting standard by

ACCOMMODATION AND AMENITIES Reception Hall, Drawing Room, Dining Room, Family Room, Cinema, Kitchen/Breakfast Room, Utility Room, Principal Bedroom Suite comprising Bedroom, 2 Dressing Rooms & Bathroom, 5 Further Bedrooms, 1 Further Dressing Room, 3 Further Bathrooms (1 En-Suite), Shower Room (En-Suite), 2 Guest Cloakrooms, Leisure Area incorporating Swimming Pool with adjoining Gymnasium, Entertainment Lounge, Steam Room & Sauna. Carriage Drive, Passenger Lift, West facing Landscaped Garden, Coach House comprising 3 Bedrooms, 1 Bathroom (En-Suite), Shower Room (En-Suite), Kitchen, Large Integral Garage & Off Street Parking.

FREEHOLD

JOINT SOLE AGENTS

POA

KnightFrank

St James’s Close, St Johns Wood NW8 A spectacular lateral Penthouse

Newly constructed by Holloway White Allom on a portered building in a prime location featuring panoramic south facing views over Regent’s Park and the London skyline. Master bedroom with en suite dressing room and bathroom, 3 further bedrooms all with en suite bathroom, open plan reception room/dining room/kitchen, laundry room, guest WC, lift, terraces, parking for 2-3 cars at rear of property. Total areas 374.9sq m (4,036sq ft) Leasehold 118 years 1 month Guide price: £8,950,000 (274711)

St. Johns Wood stjohnswood@knightfrank.com 020 7586 2777

Acacia Road, St Johns Wood Unique opportunity

An exceptional opportunity to build a brand new house of circa of 10,000sq ft in St Johns Wood. Located on the favoured East side, the house would comprise: Master bedroom with dressing room and his and hers bathrooms, 5 further bedrooms (all with en suite facilities), drawing room, family room, kitchen and breakfast room, dining room, games room, further games room/home cinema, swimming pool with Jacuzzi and changing rooms. Freehold P.O.A. (297658)

St. Johns Wood stjohnswood@knightfrank.com 020 7586 2777

n elegant Grade 1 Listed Nash residence (613sq m/6,602sq ft) located in one of Regentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Parkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most desirable locations. The property is one of the largest in the terrace and features excellent entertaining rooms and further benefits from a magnificent 53â&#x20AC;&#x2122; west facing garden and a separate Mews House. The property has undergone a complete refurbishment and is offered for sale as a shell and core enabling the prospective purchaser to design a home to their own specifications.

Accommodation

Amenities

Principal Bedroom with En-Suite Dressing Room & Bathroom, 4 Further Bedrooms, 3 Further Bathrooms (2 En-Suite), Kitchen/Breakfast Room, Dining Room, Double Length Reception Room, Family Room, Media Room, Gym, Staff Bedroom with En-Suite Bathroom, Guest Cloakroom, Separate Mews House with Bedroom, Reception Room, Kitchen, Dining Room & Study.

53’ West Facing Garden, Roof Terrace, Balcony, Lift, Air Cooling System, Underfloor Heating, Wired for Lutron Lighting, Storage Vaults, Garage, Residents Permit Parking.

HANOVER TERRACE REGENT’S PARK NW1 Price on Application

Joint Sole Agent

L/H: 123 Years

RE PR D IC U E C ED MELROSE APARTMENTS SWISS COTTAGE NW3 ÂŁ1,250,000 L/H: 999 YEARS UNEXPIRED An opportunity to acquire a 5th floor sub-penthouse apartment (111sq m/1,194sq ft) in this newly constructed, purpose built block. The apartment is finished to a high standard in contemporary style and is offered for sale with wood flooring, marble bathroom, modern fitted kitchen and independent gas central heating. Melrose Apartments is located moments from both Primrose Hill & Swiss Cottage Underground Station (Jubilee Line), which affords easy access to the City and Canary Wharf. ACCOMMODATION AND AMENITIES Principal Bedroom with Dressing Room and En-Suite Shower Room, Two Further Bedrooms, Family Bathroom, Large Reception Room incorporating Dining Area, Fully Fitted Kitchen, Utility Room, Porterage, Entry Phone System, Comfort Cooling, Secure Underground Parking Space. SOLE AGENT

astonchase.com

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

SPRINGFIELD ROAD ST JOHN’S WOOD NW8 £3,750,000 FREEHOLD An attractive semi-detached house (224sq m/2,415sq ft) which has been subject to a major refurbishment programme. The house features spacious and well planned accommodation with a delightful south facing garden and off street parking for two cars. Springfield Road is located on the west side of St John’s Wood within walking distance of The American School, St John’s Wood High Street and St John’s Wood Station (Jubilee Line). ACCOMMODATION AND AMENITIES Principal Bedroom with En-Suite Bathroom, 3 Further Bedrooms (1 with En-Suite Dressing Room & Bathroom), Family Bathroom, Reception Room, Kitchen/Family Room, Staff Bedroom with En-Suite Shower Room, Guest Cloakroom. JOINT SOLE AGENT

Norfolk Road, NW8 £8000pw - A rare opportunity to rent a stunning Nash terrace house in Regents Park. Arranged over five floors the accommodation includes five bedrooms, double reception and stunning first floor master suite. There is a charming East facing garden to the rear.

The Hamptons International team always go further to meet your personal property needs, whatever they may be. Over 97% of our clients say they would use us again or recommend us to others. Let us show you why.

St John’s Wood Office

Lettings. 020 7722 2131 stjohnswoodlettings@hamptons-int.com Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk

Viceroy Court, NW8, £1200pw - A superb three bedroom apartment on the fourth floor in this prestigious purpose built block opposite Regents Park. Double Reception Room, Fitted Kitchen, Three bedrooms one en suite & family shower room.

Kent Terrace, NW1, £1600pw - A rare opportunity to rent one of these stunning Nash Terrace Houses in Regents Park. 2 Reception Rooms, Kitchen, Master bedroom suite, four further bedrooms, 4 bathrooms.

Here. There. Everywhere. We were the first UK estate agency to launch an app for iPad, and an app for iPhone, and our website has hundreds of thousands of visitors each month. Whether you want to buy, sell, let or rent, it couldn’t be easier.

St John’s Wood Office

Lettings. 020 7722 2131 stjohnswoodlettings@hamptons-int.com Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk

Clifton Court, NW8, £750pw - A newly refurbished 3 bedroom apartment situated on the top floor (with lift) of Clifton Court. Clifton Court is situated moments from Regent’s Canal and all amenities in Little Venice.

HOT PROPERTY:

PENTHOUSE PANORAMAS

Two fabulous penthouse apartments in a boutique development in South Kensington. Each penthouse benefits from luxury fixtures and fittings throughout, air-conditioning, comprehensive audio-visual systems, underground parking and extensive terracing.

Penthouse One comprises extensive entertaining accommodation with two/three bedroom suites, whilst Penthouse Two offers perfect family living space with four double bedrooms. Both apartments offer new 999 year leases and are available furnished by negotiation.

homes & property

Cope House, South Kensington Price on application : Leasehold Brian Lack & Co www.brianlack.co.uk

020 7225 0878 75

Hampstead 020 7435 9822

Highgate 020 8348 2341

Dartmouth Park

020 7284 0101

West Hampstead 020 7644 9300

Belsize Park NW3

A substantial semi-detached family home arranged over 3 floors only ideally positioned on a quiet crescent close to Englands Lane. In need of modernisation, there is an excellent opportunity to further extend (subject to consents) and create a wonderful family home.

A s a t b a

Current Accommodation: 5 Bedrooms * Bathroom * Shower Room * Separate WC * 5 Reception Rooms * 2 Kitchens * Large Entrance Hall * Utility Room * Front Garden * Terrace * Rear Garden * RPZ

2 R F

ÂŁ2,800,000

Joint Agent

Hampstead | 020 7435 9822 | sales@b-r.co.uk

www.b-r.co.uk

Hampstead

020 7435 9822

Highgate

020 8348 2341

Hampstead Village NW3 A charming Victorian cottage forming part of this sought after terrace moments from both the village and the heath. The house has been well maintained by the present owners and has the benefit of being set back from the road behind an attractive garden and also a lovely terrace off the main reception room. 2 Bedrooms * En Suite Bathroom * Shower * Reception Room * Kitchen/Breakfast Room * Front Garden * Patio * Terrace

Guide ÂŁ1,250,000

Sole Agent

Hampstead | 020 7435 9822 | sales@b-r.co.uk www.b-r.co.uk

Dartmouth Park 020 7284 0101

West Hampstead 020 7644 9300

Hampstead 020 7435 9822

Highgate 020 8348 2341

Dartmouth Park

020 7284 0101

West Hampstead 020 7644 9300

Highgate N6

A masterpiece of imaginative design, this genuinely exceptional Georgian house which has recently undergone complete restoration affords the highest standards of luxury containing just the right blend of Georgian elegance, state of the art fittings and unrivalled panoramic views.

A h o a c b

3 Beds * 3 Baths * 2 Dressing Rooms * 2 Guest WCs * Reception Hall * Reception Room * Kitchen/Dining/ Family Room * Wine Cellar & Tasting Room * 2 Terraces * Roof Terrace * Courtyard Garden * Garden * Garage * RPZ

M F F G

ÂŁ3,999,000

Joint Agent

Highgate | 020 8348 2341 | sales@b-r.co.uk

www.b-r.co.uk

y y st of d

* Z

Hampstead

020 7435 9822

Highgate

020 8348 2341

Primrose Hill NW1 A superb flat fronted Victorian family home set in a highly sought after location with the unusual benefit of a 52ft garden. The house has been much improved and now offers an excellent combination of original character and contemporary features alongside well balanced family orientated accomodation. Master Bedroom With E/S Bath * 4 Further Bedrooms * Family Bath * Shower Room * Double Reception * Further Reception * Kitchen/Breakfast Room * Utility * Garden House * 52ft South East Facing Garden

Guide ÂŁ3,000,000

Sole Agent

Hampstead | 020 7435 9822 | sales@b-r.co.uk www.b-r.co.uk

Dartmouth Park 020 7284 0101

West Hampstead 020 7644 9300

Intervari specialise in bespoke design and manufacture of beautiful handcrafted k i t c h e n s , b e d r o o m s , b a t h r o o m s a n d f r e e - s t a n d i n g f u r n i t u r e o f e x q u i s i t e q u a l i t y. I n t e r v a r i â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s d e s i g n t e a m h a s t h e e x p e r t i s e t o c r e a t e i n d i v i d u a l a n d u n i q u e s o l u t i o n s for luxury residential environments.

I N S P I R E C R E AT E D E L I V E R

16 Wigmore Street, Marylebone, London, W1U 2RF

Te l : 0 2 0 7 6 3 7 1 9 0 0 F a x : 0 2 0 7 6 3 7 1 9 8 6 www.inter vari.com

design@intervari.com

homes & property

COMPANY PROFILE: ASTON CHASE

The Key to Success

Celebrating their 25th year in business, Aston Chase founding director, Mark Pollack talks to Jenny White about the path to success and the importance of the personal touch

t the age of 17, Mark Pollack and Richard Bernstone came up with the ambitious plan to set up their own property business. After seven years, these childhood friends realised their dream, establishing Aston Chase. The company is now celebrating its 25th year and, with landmark offices in Regent’s Park and Hampstead Garden Suburb, continues to prosper in the top-end property market. The founding directors reflect on how the company has developed since its inception. “We’re very proud of what we’ve accomplished,” says Mark. “It’s difficult to quantify achievement, but Richard and I were best friends before we started Aston Chase, and we’re best friends now. Our families have grown up together and during that time we’ve also built up a thriving business. It’s been a happy collaboration, where two friends have built something that they believe in: that’s success.” There is no doubt that, in the challenging world of property, Aston Chase has thrived whilst others have fallen by the wayside. The secret to their success is simple, Mark says: “We differ from our competitors because of our work ethic, and the fact that we have a real passion for what we do.” It is this that has sustained them through the highs and lows of the property industry, including two recessions. And what underpins this resilience? Mark and Richard are unanimous – teamwork, both with clients and colleagues. “Communication is essential. Everyone who works at Aston Chase; from director Michael Sulkin and lettings director Nicole Ratzker, to the rest of our longserving team, understands that. Our collective strength is formidable, and it’s vital that we all work together.” But could they ever have envisaged such longevity and sustained growth back when they were idealistic teenagers? Certainly from the naming of the company all those years ago, it was clear that Mark and Richard were hugely ambitious, and that their firm was set

for great things. The name Aston Chase came about because the two friends wanted to build a company that sounded simultaneously established, contemporary and dynamic. The aspirational British marque Aston Martin and multinational banking institution Chase Manhattan reflected the core values that the young directors wanted to project, and a name was born. The values that drove the conception of the name are just as relevant today. From the beginning, Aston Chase has set itself apart from more traditional high street estate agents by choosing to focus upon very specific parts of London, and prime property in those areas. “For us, having a fantastic, detailed knowledge of specific areas has been hugely beneficial. We’re experts in our field. That has been far more important to us than expanding our company and just opening branches all over the place. We’ve always believed less is more, which is why we have only two offices. This allows us to remain personally involved at all times.” More than simply working in the offices, both of the directors live and breathe their areas too. “It’s where our children go to school, where we have long-term charitable connections, where our friends are.” The benefit of having a deep rooted affinity with a community, rather than simply running a business in an area, gives the company the intimate, expert quality of a boutique business. And this is how, in an industry saturated with competitors, Aston Chase has managed to consistently stand out. Integrity and a singular focus upon customer service sets the firm apart. ‘We’ll follow through with feedback after appointments, accompany photographers to oversee image production, and consult with clients at every point of the marketing process- it’s a complete and thorough service. Nurturing our clients and exceeding their expectations gives them absolute confidence in us. We deal with individuals from the worlds of entertainment, sports, business and more, and they rightly expect first-rate service. It gives us great pride to deliver this, every time.’ With a solid reputation like this, the founding principles of the company remain. Mark and Richard have nurtured a mature and experienced team who have been schooled in the ‘Aston Chase way’. Mark says: “We balance the need to be proactive and entrepreneurial with thoughtfulness and understanding of every client’s needs. We’ve managed to grow the business by staying true to our ethos of providing a first-class, personal service for the top end of the market. We haven’t wavered from our commitment to delight every client, nor have we lost the hunger to do well.” Judging by the passion of the directors and impressive reputation of Aston Chase, one feels that 25 years is just the start. n For further information, visit www.astonchase.com or contact mark@astonchase.com or richard@astonchase.com

INDULGENT PERFECTION Interior design queen, Elena Karaman Karic, launches her Lorca Designs showroom in London next year; what can be expected from the Serbian beauty? A company tagline that reads ‘everything is never quite enough’ as soon as you visit the website conjures up images of opulence and indulgence; interior design that becomes more than mere design and encompasses a whole lifestyle. That is the mission statement of Lorca Designs and personally of Elena Karaman Karic, who runs the company, having created a brand of unique luxury and indulgent perfection. Born into an arts-orientated family in Belgrade (her mother is a fashion designer) Karaman developed a penchant for fashion, art, design and literature early in life. She studied interior design and psychology at university, before starting her own company a few years later, when she couldn’t find a designer who gave her everything she wanted for

her own home. The enthusiasm of friends and family encouraged her to develop a small collection to start with, and since then she has seen her business grow and develop throughout Serbia and the UK. Karaman has designed a number of properties, both commercial and residential spaces, often incorporating the external areas as well, as she believes that the architecture and the interior should complement each other, working together in harmony. Karaman’s style is all about classic luxury, bespoke pieces and rich, opulent materials. Think chocolate walls, antique gold picture frames, with ruby sofas, swathed in aquamarine throws. Handmade doors, beds and tables sit alongside bespoke floral designs, while Moroccan, Peruvian and

VANTAGEpromotion

Russian influences come together in one space. Dainty china and distressed wood provides a chic country charm, while one-off art pieces and rich, velvet fabrics offer up a high-end, exclusive feel. Texture and colour are key to Karamanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s success and you will see mahogany, crystal, silk, ebony, ivory, fur, marble, cedar and pearl throughout her work. Her design is about creating an ambience of warmth and joy, a welcoming home with a creative aesthetic. Karaman enjoys mixing haute couture with handicraft, sourcing antiques herself and creating one-off pieces that she designs and makes herself. Spirituality forms a large part of her working process, and she takes considerable time thinking about the energy of a space, referring to Zen philosophy when designing an interior. She is also passionate about organic and traceable pieces, paying attention to the origins and associations of many of the pieces and materials she selects. Her office spaces are stylish and practical, crucially reflecting a companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ethos with clever dashes of colour and shape, as well as surprising moments of rich textures and materials to add a quality of class to a commercial environment. A visit to her showroom reveals a treasure trove of some of her most classic designs and favourite finds, explosions of colour sit amongst striking grey armchairs, unique chandeliers, vast gold inlay mirrors and quirky ornaments all convey a sense of creativity and quality. The move to London means the ever-stylish Karaman can work closely with clients throughout the UK, transforming their interiors into a deeply personal, stylish space.

For further information, call 020 7483 9200 or visit www.lorca-design.com

St Johnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wood Office: 020 7586 5929

Stockleigh Hall, St Johns Wood, NW8

ÂŁ1,475,000 Share of Freehold

A stunningly refurbished three bedroom apartment situated on the ground floor of this highly sought-after purpose built mansion block. Offering fantastic living accommodation, features include an open-plan lounge/dining room, fully integrated kitchen with underfloor heating, ensuite bathroom, 24 hour porterage, communal heating and hot water.

BRIAN LACK AND COMPANY - opening soon at Hyatt Regency, Belgrade, SERBIA. Come and visit us.

St Johnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wood Office: 020 7586 5929

Prince Regent Court, St Johns Wood, NW8

POA | Leasehold

A rare opportunity to acquire a lateral apartment offering 4410 sq ft of accommodation spanning the entire 7th floor of this sought after purpose built block. The apartment which features impressive entertaining space, three balconies and underground parking for two cars. Prince Regent Court is located close to Regents Park and benefits from 24 hour porterage.

BRIAN LACK AND COMPANY - opening soon at Hyatt Regency, Belgrade, SERBIA. Come and visit us.

www.brianlack.co.uk

West Hampstead Office: 020 7472 5666

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Honeybourne Road, West Hampstead, NW6 Set in one of West Hampstead’s most sought after roads, a rare opportunity to acquire an exquisite 7 bedroom, 6 bathroom semi-detached house arranged over three floors. Spanning 3778 sq ft, this stylish home boasts a bright and spacious interior and has been sympathetically restored to an exacting and meticulous standard by its current owner. Situated behind electric gates with off street parking, “Fawley Prior” is ideally located in the heart of West Hampstead, close to all local transport links. A wonderful family home that must be seen to be fully appreciated.

Freehold

www.brianlack.co.uk

UNIQUE HOMES, UNIQUE SERVICE, UNIQUE PEOPLE P e r s o n a l P r o p e r t y C o n s u l t a n c y f o r B u ye r s a n d S e l l e r s o f D i s t i n c t i ve H o m e s

OAKFIELd - KNOCKHOLT, SEVENOAKS KENT Superbly appointed “New England” style five bedroom home with heated outdoor Pool and fully equipped Pool house/ entertainment complex.

Guide Price £2,500,000 F/H

THE KINGSBURy FARNBOROUGH PARK, LOCKSBOTTOM KENT New six bedroom home providing c.9000 sq ft of luxurious accommodation. Stunning indoor Pool and Spa complex and family Cinema room.

£4,295,000 F/H

London Office 116-118 Bermondsey Street, London Bridge, London SE1 3TX Tel 020 7089 6500 Email enquiries@uniquepropertiesuk.com

Kent Office

Incorporating

First Floor, 13 High Street, Chislehurst, Kent BR7 5AB Tel 020 8378 1222 Email enquiries@uniquepropertiesuk.com

www.uniqueproper tiesuk.com

homes & property

Countrywide EXPANSION Earlier this year Countrywide, the UK’s largest estate agency and property services Group, announced the acquisition of competitor Hamptons International. Emma Fitzherbert takes a closer look

he agreement, firmed up back in June of this year, includes the global business operations of Hamptons International and its network of more than 80 branches in the UK and overseas, with rights to further expand the worldrenowned brand globally across key locations, including the UK, Europe and Asia. This acquisition of one of the premier international residential agencies, forms a key part of Countrywide’s strategic plan to further expand into the prestigious high end property market, following the recent purchase of the Sotheby’s International Realty franchise in the UK. “This acquisition is a major breakthrough for both companies – they are a perfect fit, explains Grenville Turner, Countrywide group executive. “We identified that Hamptons International offers a key growth opportunity and we recognise the quality of its brand, its people, its branch locations and international credentials. “Countrywide has a proven track record of growing and investing in strong businesses, which speaks volumes in terms of what we can offer Hamptons International. This acquisition will extend our market coverage and support our plans to capitalise on the opportunities in the prestigious high end property sector.” Hamptons International will continue to operate as a business in its own right and will join Countrywide’s network of 1,300 offices and 46 leading estate agency brands, which includes John D Wood & Co. The sale was agreed with Dubai-based Emaar Properties, (which bought Hamptons from Wheelock Properties for 563million dirhams (£104million) in 2006) which will continue to operate Hamptons International in the Middle East and North Africa, with Countrywide owning the rights to expand globally. Countrywide is the UK's largest estate agency and property services group, employing more

than 9,000 staff, and its extensive portfolio of property services includes estate agency, lettings, mortgage and insurance services, land and new homes, franchising, auctions, surveying, conveyancing and corporate property management services. n For further information, visit www.countrywide.co.uk

.......A Cricketers Penthouse The ball pounds down the pitch, the batsman raises his bat in anticipation preparing for his response to this deadly delivery. The impact is thunderous and the red shining ball is sent rocketing through the sky towards the North Stand. All eyes and heads are gazing straight up intensely following the ball to see whether its a four or a six. All except one that is, the one of watches from a Penthouse in Blazer Court strategically located bang opposite Lords Cricket Ground. This Penthouse is planned around entertaining and for cricket lovers. The 1513 square foot apartment boasts a layout that separates the entertaining from the living area thus actually giving the effect of two wings to the property. The apartment has three generously sized bedrooms, the master of which has an ensuite shower room. There are two further bedrooms with a bathroom & shower room and another room which could act as a study/den.

In the entertaining wing we have a guest toilet, following through to the main reception room, and leading to the fully fitted kitchen and, of course, the terrace from where the views of Lords and the city can only be rivalled by a handful of other penthouses in the area. Blazer Court benefits from a 24 hour porter service and the flat has a reserved underground parking spot. Offers are invited in the region of ÂŁ1,649,950 and viewings are strictly by appointment only.

rescorp 11 hanover gate mansions park road, london nw1 4sj

t: 0203 348 8000 f: 0203 348 8800 e: info@rescorp.co.uk w: www.rescorp.co.uk

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homes & property

State of the market LETTINGS:

SALES:

Take advantage of the market

It’s all about location

GIDEON GOLD, MANAGER FOR HAMPTONS INTERNATIONAL,

Jason Goldstone, director of Hanover

COMMENTS ON THE CURRENT TRENDS IN THE RENTAL MARKET

Residential, comments on the current trends in the residential sales market

The rental market in St John’s Wood, Regent’s Park and Maida Vale remains strong. The imbalance between high demand and low supply is keeping prices high as the year draws to a close. However, we are now starting to see more stock come to the market as buy-to-let investors show signs of returning to the market and accidental landlords turn to renting as they seek an immediate income from their property. Across London, our market appraisals were up 14 per cent on last month, proving that more landlords are considering bringing their properties to the lettings market. Furthermore, the number of applicants registering with Hamptons has risen by 24 per cent from the same time last year. Despite this increase in supply and demand, the market remains unpredictable. We expect rents to gradually increase in 2011 as people postpone buying property and continue to rent. In the St John’s Wood area we expect the new year to bring renewed demand from our corporate clients who seek to relocate employees and their families to London. The area appeals to many due to its “family friendly” feel and its easy access to the excellent schools, the Jubilee Line, the open spaces of Regent’s Park and the superb high street. With regards to the local sales market, a night and day difference is becoming evident between the properties correctly priced and those otherwise. Demand from purchasers remains with a degree of restrictive lending. However some sellers are unwilling to accept suitable corrections and realistic house prices. Hamptons International would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy Chanukah. Gideon Gold, Hamptons International, St John’s Wood 020 7586 9595 goldg@hamptons-int.com

St John’s Wood and Regent’s Park are the destinations of choice for many different types of buyers including families, professionals, high profile individuals and a growing overseas contingent. We receive a lot of enquiries from international buyers who are looking to buy a second home in London or purchase a well-priced property for investment purposes. I believe that high quality residential property situated within the prime areas in London will always be considered a safe haven for both domestic and international buyers, which is what makes our capital one of the most desirable cities in the world. In my opinion, the London property market will continue to lead the recovery, financed by overseas wealth and an increasing strong private sector economy. Although the market throughout 2010 has been quite erratic, the underlying trend has been quite positive. We have seen a slight increase in supply in recent weeks, which is a positive sign. At the top end of the market, it is a different story, with some record prices being achieved. As an example, we have just sold a penthouse on Prince Albert Road for just under £2,000 per sq ft. St John’s Wood is a very plush enclave, with most of its best property in the form of portered mansion blocks in the Avenue Road area, through to period conversions around Abbey Road, and Hamilton Terrace, which is a wide lined street containing some of the largest homes in the area. It is within walking distance of Central London, but it has its own secluded feel with the open spaces of Regent’s Park and Primrose Hill on your doorstep. St John’s Wood High Street is always a hive of activity. It has a very village like atmosphere. You`ll be sure to always see someone you know. In fact, I regularly bump into old clients – it’s a great way to pick up new instructions! Jason Goldstone, director of Hanover Residential St John’s Wood 020 7372 4499 jason@hanover-residential.co.uk

PRIMROSE HILL NW1

PRICE ON APPLICATION FREEHOLD

Designed by the late Richard Paxton, renowned as one of Britain’s finest residential architects, a unique and important modern home discretely located in this quiet mews within the heart of Primrose Hill. This ‘house’ is entered via a smoked glass portcullis revealing a large parking space which in turn provides access via a grand stepped approach (with funicular lift!) into the stunning main reception area which is a double volume space over 70' in length with a curved ceiling, revealing two vast retractable glass roof lights. The key feature of this area is the unique 40' glass swimming pool. The semi-open plan kitchen blends in with the highly original and contemporary interior. Two wings either side of this great space provide the bedroom accommodation with a two storey master suite with dressing room and bathroom on the lower level, master bedroom and study area above and across the way is the second wing providing four bedroom suites with terraces.

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15/11/2010 15:59

2576

HigHgate N6

PRICE ON APPLICATION FREEHOLD

Arguably, one of the most handsome houses to have come to the market in Highgate for many years, an ornate, detached Edwardian house of some 6,032 sq ft requiring some updating, set back from the road behind gates and approached both from a gravelled driveway and a formal topiary garden. This fine property offers generous reception space on the ground floor including a drawing room, dining room, study, family room, large kitchen breakfast room and indoor swimming pool. Apart from the master bedroom suite, there are a further six double bedrooms and three bathrooms arranged over the first and second floors. The principal reception rooms lead on to the magnificent 150' South East facing garden which abuts the playing fields of Highgate School. The garden has a pond, mature trees, deep flowering beds and a detached studio room. There is a double garage and off street parking for numerous cars. Both Highgate Village and the open expanses of Kenwood House and the Heath are very close by.

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Jason Goldstone MNAEA DIRECTOR

Jeremy Roseblatt MNAEA DIRECTOR

Abbey Road, St John’s Wood, NW8

Grove Hall Court, St John’s Wood, NW8

A newly refurbished three bedroom, two bathroom apartment (1,537 sq ft / 143 sq m) situated on the ground floor of this period property in St John’s Wood. The apartment benefits from a private patio and is ideally located for the American School, shops and cafés of St John’s Wood High Street and underground station.

A spacious four bedroom, three bathroom apartment (1,518 sq ft / 141 sq m) situated on the second floor of this popular portered block in St John’s Wood. The apartment features an impressive reception room with separate dining area and kitchen/breakfast room, and is offered in excellent decorative condition.

Principal Agent

£1,350 per week

£1,400 per week

Avenue Road, St John’s Wood, NW8

Park Village West, Regents Park, NW1

A spacious three bedroom second floor apartment with views towards Regents Park. The apartment features an impressive double reception room with access to a balcony. Further benefits include 24 hour porterage, passenger lift and two underground parking spaces.

A beautifully presented three/four bedroom period home presented in immaculate condition throughout, comprising two reception rooms, large eat-in kitchen and secluded patio garden. The house is located in this sought after road, situated moments from Regent’s Park and close to Camden Town (Northern Line) tube station.

Sole Agent

Principal Agent

£1,495 per week

£1,650 per week

020 7372 4499 www.hanover-residential.co.uk

Carlton Hill, St John’s Wood, NW8

Bryanston Square, Marylebone, W1

An extremely large and spacious duplex apartment occupying the first and second floor of this period house. The apartment is in immaculate condition and available to rent on an unfurnished basis. Carlton Hill is located off London’s famous Abbey Road and is within walking distance of St John’s Wood High Street & underground station (Jubilee Line).

This magnificent two bedroom, two bathroom duplex apartment occupying the ground and lower ground floors of this prestigious block set around this beautiful garden square. The property has just undergone a complete renovation program and offers the utmost convenience for the amenities surrounding Hyde Park and Oxford Street.

Sole Agent

Principal Agent

£1,800 per week

£1,850 per week

Collection Place, St John’s Wood, NW8

Prince Albert Court, St John’s Wood, NW8

Formerly the site of the Saatchi Gallery, Collection Place is a landmark development created by award-winning architects. This stunning three bedroom, two bathroom contemporary house (2,792 sq ft / 259 sq m) is offered in immaculate decorative condition and features secure underground parking for two cars, roof terrace and 24-hour concierge.

A stunning three bedroom penthouse apartment (2,030 sq ft / 188 sq m), situated in this purpose built block on Prince Albert Road. The apartment benefits from an exceptional roof terrace comprising 1,131 sq ft, featuring incredible panoramic views. Additional benefits include porterage, passenger lift, lock up garage.

Sole Agent

Principal Agent

£2,000 per week

£3,250 per week

Jason Goldstone MNAEA DIRECTOR

Jeremy Roseblatt MNAEA DIRECTOR

The Yoo Building, St Johnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wood, NW8

An immaculately presented three bedroom, three bathroom apartment (1,246 sq ft / 115 sq m) situated on the third floor of this architecturally designed block. The apartment is enviably located at the front of the building and features a stunning double volume reception room with an abundance of natural light. Additional benefits include 24hr porterage, secure allocated parking and a passenger lift.

Sole Agent

Leasehold

ÂŁ1,225,000

020 7372 4499 www.hanover-residential.co.uk

Abbey Lodge, St Johnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wood, NW8

A beautifully presented four bedroom, three bathroom apartment (2,223 sq ft / 206 sq m) situated on the second floor of this prestigious mansion block. The apartment features two intercommunicating reception rooms with access to a small balcony, wood flooring and period features including a fireplace and cornicing. Abbey Lodge benefits from 24 hour porterage, limited off street parking, passenger lift and access to a communal garden.

Joint Sole Agent

Leasehold

ÂŁ2,999,500