Hamptons Relocation & Renovation Guide. Knightsbridge

Knightsbridge

Relocate & Renovate Design & Build, Schools, Eating out, Health clubs, Shopping & more.

NFA architects is an award winning architects formed of a senior director with dedicated architects, designers and technologists based in Kent. Within our team we enjoy the creative process and the satisfaction of delivering client focused site sensitive architecture.

NFA have undertaken a vast range of projects for both commercial and private clients working in all areas of central London and the Home Counties including work further afield in Cornwall, Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire. Our work encompasses new build, refurbishment and listed properties in very sensitive locations.

A very warm welcome to Knightsbridge and the surrounding areas from all of us at Hamptons.

You will be moving into one of the most highly regarded areas in London. Desirable homes, tree lined avenues, diverse shops and restaurants and an eclectic, vibrant population.

Hamptons has been matching people with property that’s right for them, locally, nationally and internationally, since 1869. We were pioneers, setting standards that few of our rivals could match and this hasn’t changed since.

Today, 150 years after we first set up home in Pall Mall, with 15 decades of finding property and looking after people under our belt, our clients now consider us to be their, ‘home experts’.

Yours sincerely,

Jonathan Hough-Head of Sales

Lisa Cavanagh-Smith - Senior Head of Lettings

Knightsbridge

Hamptons offers you a warm welcome to Knightsbridge

Congratulations, if you are house hunting in Knightsbridge, you have already won. A home in this great area with all it offers, automatically makes you the envy of many. Now in order to make your transition as smooth and hassle free as possible Hamptons have put together this great guide which will help you choose the best schools, learn a little about planning and building control, read tips on where to shop, eat and lot’s more, all packed into one little guide with clickable links.

Perhaps most importantly we have researched some of the leading local professionals and experts who can help you add value and personalise your soon to be new home. A big WELCOME and enjoy.

A little bit of history

Until the 19th century, Knightsbridge was no more than a small, poorly connected town associated with criminals and highwaymen. Its growth began in 1790 with the Knightsbridge Paving Act which improved the quality of the roads and development continued into the 19th century, with the opening of department stores Harvey Nichols and Harrods cementing Knightsbridge as the fashionable shopping destination we know today.

Why move to Knightsbridge?

Affluent families and international investors alike are drawn here by the premium property stock, with grand period properties sitting alongside lavish new build apartments. The exceptional schooling opportunities, endless amenities and proximity to the glorious greenery of Hyde Park seal the deal.

Knightsbridge is an exclusive shopping district most famous for iconic department stores Harrods and Harvey Nichols, as well as the flagship designer stores of Sloane Street and Sloane Square which include such luxury brands as Dior, Prada and Balenciaga. In addition to these high-end retailers, residents also benefit from local branches of major supermarkets and a post office for daily needs, as well as an abundance of fitness clubs and medical practitioners.

For those with very fat bank accounts, Knightsbridge can be a great place to spend your time and set up a home. This is the kind of world where people have money and aren’t afraid to show it off. Maseratis and Ferraris line the streets and it wouldn’t be a shock for a Knightsbridge resident to drop thousands on a pair of shoes.

The area is mainly for those who are past their partying days because it doesn’t have much of a nightlife. However, exclusive shops and restaurants make it an ideal choice for people who don’t want to settle down completely.

As you’d expect, housing here is extremely expensive. Most people tend to rent apartments, but there are grand homes available for sale here – some costing tens of millions of pounds. For the most part, people stick around once they move to this neighborhood.

The area is most notable for having two of the most famous department stores in the world, Harrods and Harvey Nichols. These two stores offer up some of the most expensive and luxurious goods in all of London. Sloan Street is another famous shopping locale that features flagship stores of designer lables like Prada and Dior. There are also some unique shops that specialize in one-of-a-kind pieces.

Tourists are attracted to this area to marvel at the opulence, so it might feel like you are on display if you do live here.

Knightsbridge is bordered on the north by Kensington Gardens, on the east by Belgravia, on the south by Brompton, and on the west by Kensington.

www.goodmigrations.com

FAMOUS RESIDENTS

Knightsbridge and the surrounding area has been a home to rockstars, celebrities, athletes, academics, artists and common or garden members of the upper-crust for generations. Here are a few notable names you may or may not know..

Freddie Adkins, Comics Artist

Henry Cranke Andrews, Botanical Artist

Angela Grant, Actress

Rowan Atkinson. .Actor

Robbie Williams. ...Singer song writer

Sir Richard Branson.

Lady Caroline Blackwood, Writer

James Dyson. British inventor, industrial design engineer and founder of the Dyson

Eric Clapton. English rock and blues guitarist, singer, and songwriter. ...

Georgina Bruni, Author

Lady Elizabeth Basset, Author

Joyce Grenfell, Singer, Writer, Actress

Stephen Hastings, Politician

Raymond Mortimer, Writer

Adrian Weale, Writer

Simon Weale, Cricketer

Patrick White, Writer

Richard Branson

Robbie Williams

Pubs & Live Music

Alfred Tennyson

A smartly laid-out pub with a more formal upstairs dining room serving Modern European cuisine.

10 Motcomb St, London SW1X 8LA 0207 730 6074

www.cubitthouse.co.uk

Thomas Cubit

Modern and traditional British pub grub in oakfloored country-house bar and elegant dining room.

44 Elizabeth St, London SW1W 9PA 0207 730 6060

www.cubitthouse.co.uk/the-thomas-cubitt/

Nags Head

53 Kinnerton St, London SW1X 8ED

Relaxed tavern offering a selection of beers & real ales in a cosy, eclectic space

Phone: 020 7235 1135

www.thenagsheadlondon.co.uk

Wilton Arms

The Wilton Arms is a family run pub tucked away in the heart of Belgravia. We are open after a gentle refurbishment last summer, taking great care to restore its original features and we’re very excited to finally open our doors!

We love great beers, friendly service and fresh, home-cooked pub classics. Our menu has a seasonal focus, serving fresh British produce carefully sourced from the best local producers. Our real ales and beers from around the country

are rotated regularly, keeping the selection fresh and interesting. There is an extensive cellar of wines from around the world to choose from. We also have a stunning dining room upstairs which is available for private hire.

71 Kinnerton St, London SW1X 8ED

Flower baskets cover this Victorian pub, which has a conservatory, TV sport and daily specials menu.

0203 903 6222

www.thewiltonarmssw1.com

The Grenadier

Join us at Grenadier. A landmark in its own right, The Grenadier in Belgrave Square is royalty amongst London pubs. This historic treasure chest is a hidden gem, beloved by both locals and visitors to the city.

Tiny former officers’ mess with grenadier-themed decor and unique pewter bar, serving ales and food.

18 Wilton Row Belgravia SW1X 7NR

United Kingdom 0207 235 3074

www.grenadierbelgravia.com

Tattersalls Tavern

Eat, drink & relax with your family, friends and colleagues. Traditional pub with dark wood panelling and heavy curtains, for cask ales and classic British food.

1 Knightsbridge Grn, London SW1X 7QN. 020 7584 7122

www.greeneking-pubs.co.uk/pubs/greaterlondon/tattersalls-tavern

Duke Of York

8 Dering St, London W1S 1AF. 020 7629 0319

Greene King is the country’s leading pub retailer and brewer, with delicious homemade food and serving the best ales and beers with a wide selection. Come and visit us and relax.

www.greeneking-pubs.co.uk/pubs/greaterlondon/duke-of-york/

Dickie’s Bar

Originally Lord Headfort’s hunting lodge and deerpark, the 100-acre Virginia Park Lodge in County Cavan is today owned by Richard Corrigan himself. Here, the head Plant Hunter (Sergeant Taylour to us) and head groundsman Donal daily stalk its vast expanses in search of the season’s finest delectables. They’ve even built a nuttery to lure in more, well, nuts.

28 Upper Grosvenor St, London W1K 7EH. 020 7499 9943

www.dickies.corrigancollection.com/

Paxtons Head

The Paxtons Head is located alongside the south end of Hyde Park, on the main road towards Kensington. It is a superb example of Victorian architecture, and still boasts original oak panels, etched mirrors and extensive glass work. It is thought to be built around 1632 and became the Paxtons head in 1850s, referencing Joseph Paxton who designed the original Crystal Palace. 153 KnightsbridgeBelgraviaSW1X 7PA www.greeneking-pubs.co.uk

Shouldyou wish to wet your whistle in Knightsbridge you could hardly have a wider choice. ‘Old school’ inns and taverns, cocktail bars, live music venues, gastropubs, they all abide aplenty in Knightsbridge. Here are a few suggestions but the best way to find your ‘local’ is surely to take the air and simply explore.

The Bunch Of Grapes

Wooden-floored pub with covered patio, floor-toceiling windows, etched glass and a real fireplace

From Sunday Roasts to Fish & Chips, there is nothing better than the quintessential pub classic with pint in hand. Our chefs are busy rustling up all your favourites for you to enjoy.

207 Brompton Rd, London SW3 1LA

www.bunchofgrapes-knightsbridge.co.uk

Interview with ‘Modereno Interiors’

Who or what have been your major influences and role models?

My biggest role model was ZAHA Hadid (architect). She was known for her innovative and unconventional deconstructionist designs architecturally. Her work pushed boundaries of architecture, creating visually striking and thought-provoking structures.

Pinterest allows us as designers to create and share a cohesive, aesthetic interiors by using this platform’s board of organisation with our clients. This helps strengthen our client’s vision further in trusting us what we can deliver.

Inspirations also comes from travel, home shows, furniture galleries and social media to further elaborate on “outside the box” designs.

In developing a style for a client’s property who takes the lead or is it a collaborative effort?

Why should people appoint an interior designer instead of managing their own project?

MODERNO Interiors offers a comprehensive range of interior design services focusing on creating functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces while collaborating closely with architects and other contractors. Hiring Kajal Patel & Kajal Karena as interior designers we can bring numerous, valuable benefits, including on-site project management, access to high network of tradespeople and creative expertise to enhance your home or commercial space. Our attention to detail and ability to manage various aspects of the design process will help you save time, money and ensure a successful outcome.

What type of projects get you most excited?

We are transparent about our passion and our dedication shines through in our work as highly skilled interior designers. Creating beautiful, functional, and transformative spaces that makes our clients happy and appreciate our work is our most rewarding achievement. Our commitment to each individual project with various challenges is evident and the satisfaction of a successfully completed project is truly exciting and inspiring.

Dynamic collaboration between the role of an Architect and Head Interior Designer takes the lead role in our client’s projects. Architect role is the overall design, functionality and meeting compliance with building regulations whereas our Interior Designers role is in creating aesthetically pleasing and functional internal spaces aspect of various finishes, colour scheme, flooring and layout design and ensuring each room is purposely designed.

Designers at MODERNO Interiors pays special attention to detail, driven by a deeper understanding of the client’s requirements that align with their vision. This collaborative approach insures a comprehensive and wellrounded design.

Is there a project that you are most proud of?

MODERNO Interiors significant achievement was with our first major commission, the luxurious London home - ‘Linksway’. This was most recently featured in Crazy Rich Agents show aired on BBC 2. Our recognition was through various awards and media coverage highlights the excellence of our work. This approach of designing beyond aesthetics, incorporating elements like texture, light and sound to shape experiences speaks to us committing to create a more meaningful environment. This design philosophy helped clients to achieve their aspirations and values, making their living spaces a daily refection of their true selves.

Local Hotspots

Enjoy an artisan coffee, while exploring great fashion boutiques right in the picturesque heart of Knightsbridge!

39 Steps Coffee – Knightsbridge

39 Steps Coffee was started in early 2018 in Soho, London with the aim of providing the finest specialty coffee, scrumptious food, and only the best service, to the busy bees in Central London. We have since branched out to Knightsbridge, London, opposite the famous Harrods store, and continue to grow and build relationships with our regular customers, whilst growing our offerings to customers. Our primary aim is to provide only the highest quality service to customers, whether it be a quick coffee break, a spot of lunch, or with any manner of service.

Queens of Mayfair

The core of Queens is high quality Artisanal produce to give the basis of a great taste and flavours for food to both eat in and take away. We serve high grade coffee on a daily basis and have a delicious menu from 7:30am, breakfast, morning cakes and baked goods, lunch, and a good selection of serving platters in the evening. We look forward to welcoming you.

17 Queen St, London W1J 5PH. 020 7459 4617 www.queensofmayfair.com/about-queens-of-mayfair

Tomtom Coffee House

Tomtom Coffee House is a specialist coffee shop on the corner of Elizabeth Street. We have a very good reputation for producing one of the finest cups of coffee in the West End. Our drinks are made freshly from Allpress roast beans, using the best equipment on the market and by our expert Barista.

114 Ebury St, Elizabeth St, London SW1W 9QD. 020 7730 1771 www.tomtomcoffee.co.uk /

Café Kitsuné at Pantechnicon

Conceived in Tokyo by the famed Japanese-French record label and named after the fox – an animal that’s greatly revered in Japan – Café Kitsuné features classic pastries and cakes with a Japanese accent. Grab a double-baked matcha croissant or a caramel miso rice pudding brioche for breakfast, freshly baked each morning by our chefs. For lunch there’s the fluffiest sandos in town, while coffee and cocktails are available throughout the day for whenever you need that pick-me-up.

Ground Floor, 19 Motcomb St, London SW1X 8LB. www.pantechnicon.com/

130 Brompton Rd, London SW3 1JD. www.39stepscoffee.com/

Feya

The interior starts with a river of purple marble, leading you to Feya’s sunny sky, with a stop by the leafy rainforest. This enchanted forest in the heart of London has mesmerised many customers and is now our primary venue to host event. Serving speciality coffee and drinks, with an extensive menu serving high quality food and pastries.

146 Brompton Road, London, SW3 1HX. 020 3972 7989

www.feya.co.uk/feya-knightsbridge

Pinko Boutique

We are a high-class women’s fashion retailer. We stock a large selection of quality Italian everyday casual garments and accessories. We offer a unique in store shopping experience by appointment for any guidance you may need if preferred. What ever your need here at Pinko we have a design for you.

45 Brompton Rd, London SW3 1DE. 020 7584 6524

www.stores.pinko.com/en/unitedkingdom

Aquazzura Boutique

Exuding a modern, alluring elegance, Aquazzura’s footwear collections have become instantly iconic since their debut in 2011. Exquisitely handmade in Italy with a particular focus on comfort and wearability, Edgardo Osorio’s creations combine luxury and craftsmanship with an innovative design, sophisticated embellishments, and vibrant colour palettes. From the signature seasonal collections to exclusive collaborations and bespoke creations, Aquazzura shoes can be seen on the feet of trendsetters, Hollywood stars, European royalty and fashion insiders all around the globe. 38 Albemarle St, London W1S 4JG. 020 3828 0433

www.aquazzura.com/gb_en/aquazzura-world/aquazzura. html

Oliver Brown

The home of traditional & contemporary ready-to-wear and bespoke tailoring. Oliver Brown is a leading shopping destination for quintessentially traditional and contemporary ready-to-wear collections, bespoke tailoring, formalwear hire and luxury accessories. We specialise in designing collections of the highest quality, using cloths sourced from some of the oldest mills in the North of England and Scotland, manufactured in England.

75 Lower Sloane St, London SW1W 8DA. 020 7259 9494

www.oliverbrown.org.uk/

On Motcomb

Dedicated to luxury and attention to detail. We offer an exclusive shopping experience. Devoted to luxury evening wear our curated collection include a number of exclusive pieces commissioned each season from Ateliers.

11-12 Motcomb St, London SW1X 8LB. 020 7235 4146

www.on-motcomb.com/

Knightsbridge Arts

Why not enjoy a night at one of the great theatres spotted around Knightsbridge!

The Royal Court Theatre

The Royal Court is the writers’ theatre. We are a leading force in world theatre for cultivating and supporting writers – undiscovered, emerging and established. We also Offer expertly crafted cocktails alongside an extensive selection of craft gins and beers, wine and soft drinks, the Royal Court Bar & Kitchen provides a sanctuary in the middle of Sloane Square to accompany your theatre experience. Sloane Square, London SW1W 8AS. 020 7565 5000 www.royalcourttheatre.com/

Delfont Mackintosh Theatres

Delfont Mackintosh Theatres is owned by Sir Cameron Mackintosh. We operate eight of the most prestigious theatres in London’s West End: the Prince Edward, Prince of Wales, Novello, Gielgud, Sondheim, Noël Coward, Wyndham’s and Victoria Palace, all of which have undergone major refurbishments combining beautiful restoration with 21st century comfort.

Mackintosh House, 39-45 Shaftesbury Ave, London W1D 6LA. 0844 482 5151 www.delfontmackintosh.co.uk/

Curzon Mayfair

Curzon Cinemas is London’s leading arthouse cinema chain with eight venues across the capital. We also have a further four venues outside of London, bringing the very best of Hollywood, independent and world cinema to audiences. In 2017, the Curzon group received the BAFTA for Outstanding British Contribution to Cinema. 38 Curzon Street, London, W1J 1TY. www.curzon.com/venues/mayfair

Gatsby’s Mansion

Welcome back to the roaring twenties! Jay Gatsby invites you to one of his infamous parties. The champagne flows and as the drama unfolds the man himself will be the perfect host. As invites go, this is the hottest ticket in town. A hedonistic world of red hot rhythms, bootleg liquor and pure jazz age self-indulgence awaits. Dress to the nines and immerse yourself in this heart racing adaption of F Scott Fitzgerald’s seminal tale.

56 Davies St, London W1K 5JF. 020 3053 1500 www.immersivegatsby.com/

Ham Yard Theatre

The 190 seat state-of-the-art theatre has been designed to the highest professional standards. The walls are lined with electric blue wool, with striking tangerine orange leather seats and bright pink silk curtains framing the stage. An exclusive dress circle balcony, two beautifully appointed green rooms complete with mini bar, shower, sofa and desk.

1 Ham Yard, London W1D 7DT. 020 3642 2000 www/ham-yard-hotel/ham-yard-theatre/

Jermyn Street Theatre

16B Jermyn St, St. James’s, London SW1Y 6ST. 020 7287 2875

Jermyn Street Theatre is the West End’s smallest producing theatre. Led by Artistic and Executive Directors Tom Littler and Penny Horner, the programme includes outstanding new plays, rare revivals, new versions of European classics, and highquality musicals, alongside one-off musical, and literary events. We collaborate with theatres across the world, and our productions have transferred to the West End and Broadway.

www.jermynstreettheatre.co.uk/

Victoria Palace Theatre

The Victoria Palace Theatre, magnificently restored for the 21st century, reopened on 6th December with the European premiere of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s acclaimed, Pulitzer Prize winning HAMILTON which sits perfectly in this re-imagined theatre. The theatre has been redeveloped from renowned theatre architect Frank Matcham’s original design to combine beautiful restoration with twenty first century comfort and facilities, which include a new purpose built rehearsal and audition space that is available for hire. The bright space is located at the top of the Victoria Palace Theatre, a stone’s throw from Victoria Station and is fully equipped with all essential requirements including a sprung floor and new PA system.

79 Victoria St, London SW1E 5EA. 0844 482 5138

www.victoriapalacetheatre.co.uk/

Finborough Theatre

Founded in 1980, the multi-award-winning Finborough Theatre, led by Artistic Director Neil McPherson, presents plays and music theatre, concentrated exclusively on thought provoking textbased new writing, as well as rediscovering genuinely neglected works from the 19th and 20th centuries, many produced or co-produced in-house. We offer a stimulating and inclusive programme at the centre of London’s cultural life, appealing to theatregoers of all generations and from a broad spectrum of the population.

118 Finborough Rd, London SW10 9ED. 01223 357851

www.finboroughtheatre.co.uk/

Cine Lumiere

Ciné Lumière has established itself as one of London’s best independent cinemas. With a particular emphasis on French, European and World cinema, its programme combines new releases, repertory screenings, previews and exclusive on-stage events attended by directors and actors. Building upon the success of Ciné Lumière, the Institut français opened a second screen in 2019, Ciné Lumière II, to further expand its programme

17 Queensberry Pl, South Kensington, London SW7 2DT, 020 7871 3515

www.institut-francais.org.uk/

Tell us a little about the background of Gosling Ltd?

I set up Gosling in 2005, having been in the furniture design and interiors industry for many years. My goal was to establish a reputation for design excellence, awe-inspiring craftsmanship and a design service perfectly tailored to the client’s individual needs. Designing and building a home for someone is incredibly personal. It requires vision, enthusiasm and an egoless desire to listen closely to the client’s needs in order to make a home truly bespoke and personal.

Who were your inspirations when you were learning your craft?

My early design inspiration came from museum collections in France, USA, St Petersburg and Venice and of course, my home town, London. From Regency designers, such as Sir John Soane, John Nash, Frank Lloyd Wright to Hubert de Givency. Currently I am renovating a Chateau in Normandy and this has been a huge inspiration and learning process. You can find out more about Chateau Restoration on Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/restorationchateau/

Talk us through your customer process from receiving that initial enquiry?

My process always starts with a sketch book and pencil, it allows the client and I to start the dialogue with an instant visual understanding of what we both mean. I sketch very fast so results are immediate! From that moment the ideas expand and develop and costs then

allocated to the various elements. Once the work and scope is agreed, a 50 percent deposit starts the process rolling, the magical journey begins, creating the furniture, purchasing antiques and artworks and selecting soft furnishings.

How far afield do your customers come from?

Gosling clients come from all over the world, which I love. One of my strong points is identifying with different cultures and lifestyles and bringing all the nuances together to create the dream home or working environment.

What do you enjoy most about running your business?

I love the way each project and each home is different. I love learning and with each new client we go on a discovery journey together, learning from each other and creating something unique, bespoke and beautiful, which surpasses the dream of the initial brief.

Ready to create the life you dream of upon waking?

Sleep well is something we all say nightly to loved ones. At Hästens, it’s more than a wish; it’s a vision. We dream about a world where people sleep well— one that’s happier, more peaceful and loving. This year marks our 170th anniversary and for six generations, we have served others driven by our passion for continuous improvement and the pursuit of excellence.

Quality sleep is more than a biological necessity; it is the foundation to your entire wellbeing and enhances your quality of life. We want you to feel at your very best and create the life you dream of upon waking.

That’s why our master craftsmen in Köping, Sweden, carefully consider every detail and use the finest wool, cotton, flax, premium Swedish pine, and horsetail hair to create a bed that’s perfectly fit for you.

Our promise remains the same today as it did all those years ago; to help you sleep well and awaken feeling refreshed, energized and alert throughout the entire day. Every day.

Book your private appointment today at hastens.com/uk/store-locator

Interview with ‘Cochrane Design’

time. We assist clients in finding the right contractor and oversee the implementation of the project ensuring the final result exceeds their expectations.

Tell us about the background of Cochrane Design?

Founded in 2004 by Sean Cochrane, our design studio has established a reputation for creating timeless, bespoke interiors for private clients and developers throughout the UK and abroad. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, Sean leads our talented team of designers who work collaboratively with clients to create personalised and unique designs that reflect their individual style and taste. Using our extensive expertise and strong relationships within the industry we work with our clients from concept to completion coordinating the design and build process.

What’s your customer process from receiving that initial enquiry?

The first step is to walk through the property and understand our client’s needs and preferences, including their style, budget, and timeline allowing us to create a ‘design brief’. We discuss any planning or listed building issues that will impact the design as well as the requirements for any third party specialists. We present the brief with an estimated design fee before embarking on the design concept and scheme drawings. Once the client is happy with the proposed direction we develop and specify the detailed designs which include drawings of layouts, bathrooms, kitchen and bespoke joinery as well as small power, lighting and key finishes. We prepare schedules for furniture, fixtures and equipment with details on cost and lead

What

is the most rewarding aspect of your job?

As designers we often work closely with clients, allowing us to build relationships and collaborate on projects meeting the client’s needs and striving to exceed their expectations. Seeing the final result of a project come to life can be incredibly satisfying, knowing that you have played a significant role in transforming a space into something special. Interior design is a constantly evolving field, which means as designers we are always expanding our knowledge and learning new techniques or materials which can be very intellectually stimulating and exciting.

What characteristics set you apart from other design and build services?

We employ a collaborative and transparent approach to every project, ensuring that the client’s vision is fully realised. Communication and collaboration with the client throughout the process are critical to ensuring a successful outcome.

Example of residential development you worked on locally

We undertook the complete renovation of a 9,500 square foot family home. Reintroduction of original features including cornicing and panelling throughout the property was a key for the client, showing a respect for the building’s heritage. A wonderful balance was struck between old and new, radically transforming the house over five floors. The house features 7 double bedrooms, 5 en-suites, a master suite with his and hers dressing and bathrooms which are both practical and elegant. The vast kitchen, living, dining area was designed to be the heart of this home, with floor to ceiling cabinets framing the 9 metre split level island and arched doors leading out to the terrace and garden. We also incorporated a playroom, gym, cinema and wine cellar to cater for all the family.

Interview with Nick Farnell from NFA Architects

Tell us a little of the background of NFA Architects?

NFA Design Studio provides a bespoke design service that accommodates for small private commissions, and luxury interior fittings. Design Director Nick Farnell, injects his design philosophy of balancing the desires of the clients, and the time to deliver a project, resulting in supreme designs that surpass the initial expectations of the client.

Good design is integral to our practice. We combine a love of design and ingenuity in finding solutions. We are a team of qualified architects with over 23 years of experience and have worked across many sectors spanning different building types, from high-end gyms to spas, theatre to home cinema, Crown courts to schools and hotels to homes.

Nick has been a director of NFA Architects since its inception, with his and the company’s forte now lying in the design of challenging schemes, for example, works on Grade I listed buildings in some of the most prestigious locations across central London.

You have a strong track record with listed and conservation properties, what gives your firm that edge?

Our edge is derived by our dedicated years of crafting designs to approval. We take great care with every scheme and thoroughly research the history of the building and its former planning applications. We guide each client through the best method for submitting for approval based on our expertise and whilst we can not guarantee approvals our success highlights our professional knowledge.

On the most sensitive projects we will bring on board a dedicated heritage expert to assist with the historical significance of the project together with a concise and crafted argument for the proposed changes.

Which aspect of your job gives you the most satisfaction?

Over the past 13 years we have constantly pushed ourselves to increasingly take on board a turnkey approach. As a result, we now offer full interior and furniture design as well as landscaping services. This has increased our control of projects and improved the quality of the finished article. We have been recognised for these achievements, gathering many awards and accolades.

As an architect and designer the most satisfaction that can be gained is through the design and implementation of the design into the high quality finished project. However no project would be complete without the full satisfaction and joy when the client takes possession of the completed building.

What words of encouragement would you give a potential client who is hesitating to make that initial phone call?

A collaborative and consultative approach is taken with our clients and is the key to our success. This is tailored to each project, so it keeps the design approach fresh. The five key themes to good design are:

1- Budget. Understanding the client’s expectation of cost is paramount to the success and implementation of any project.

2- Place. The heritage or conservation significance, where is it located?

3- Light. Natural daylight, orientation to sunlight, the volume of the space, the relationship of its plan form with the interconnections of vistas and access.

4- People. The demographic, is it for an expanding family or an elderly couple, understanding the client and their needs is key to attaining the balance of the finished project.

5- Time. Is there a timeframe for completion, does it necessitate licences, planning permission or listed building consent, etc.

We are contemporary designers and enjoy designing with new and old. Our methods are fluid enough to tailor to the client rather than impose a style or ideal on a person. We understand the importance of a dedicated team to support and develop each project. Our practice is architect-led, with a focused, design-inspired philosophy that benefits the project and ultimately the client.

Are you able to offer a project management service to clients ?

As architects we do offer contract administration of all of our projects. We consider this to be the best legal way to ensure a project is realised as follows:

• Preparing the contract documents for execution

• Administrating change control procedures

• Seeking instructions from the client in relation to the contract

• Issuing instructions such as variations, or relating to prime cost sums or making good defects

• Considering claims

• Charing construction progress meetings

• Preparing and issuing construction progress reports

• Co-ordinating and instructing site inspections

• Agreeing commissioning and testing procedures

• Agreeing defects reporting procedures

• Ensuring that project documentation is issued to the client

• Issuing certificates of practical completion and interim certificates

• Collating and issuing schedules of defects

• Issuing the certificate of making good defects

• Issuing final certificate

NFA have been carrying out contract administrator duties on varied building projects over many years and have a long and established track record of successful schemes. We hold Professional Indemnity Insurance for all of our work through the RIBA insurance agency.

21 Ellis Street, Knightsbridge London, SW1X 9AL

Tel: 020 7692 8320

www.nfaltd.co.uk

Family days out

Knightsbridge is a great destination for a family trip offering entertainment for kids of all ages. We’ve picked some of the most popular family-friendly things to do and sorted them into a handy list.

Apsley House

Museum in the Iron Duke’s Georgian house with a fine art collection and a Canova statue of Napoleon. A unique survival of an aristocratic home in central London. Originally built by Robert Adam and extensively remodelled in the 1820s for the Duke of Wellington. The house is still the London residence of the Dukes of Wellington today. Private tours are available on request.

149 Piccadilly, London W1J 7NT. 020 7499 5676 www.wellingtoncollection.co.uk/

Victoria and Albert Museum

The V&A is the world’s leading museum of art and design, housing a permanent collection of over 2.3 million objects that span over 5,000 years of human creativity. The Museum holds many of the UK’s national collections and houses some of the greatest resources for the study of architecture, furniture, fashion, textiles, photography, sculpture, painting, jewellery, glass, ceramics, book arts, Asian art and design, theatre and performance. Cromwell Rd, London SW7 2RL. 020 7942 2000 www.vam.ac.uk/

Kensington Palace

Explore the birthplace of Queen Victoria and home to young royals for over 300 years. Walk in the footsteps of royalty in Victoria’s re-imagined childhood rooms and the magnificent King’s State Apartments and Queen’s State Apartments. As well as being a popular visitor destination, Kensington Palace is the official residence of TRH The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and their children.

Kensington Gardens, London W8 4PX. 0333 320 6000 www.hrp.org.uk/kensington-palace/#gs.fwwzs3

Kensington Gardens

Once part of Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens offers a mix of old and new park pastimes and green space. Get your fix of contemporary art and architecture at the Serpentine Galleries, marvel at the history and heritage of Kensington Palace or admire the Victorian splendour of the Albert Memorial. Over in the Diana Memorial Playground , kids will enjoy the huge wooden pirate ship, sensory trail and play sculptures, inspired by the adventures of fictional park hero, Peter Pan London W2 2UH. 0300 061 2000

www.royalparks.org.uk/parks/kensington-gardens

London Oratory

A popular tourist attraction. The Church of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, better known as Brompton Oratory, is home to the Congregation of the Oratory of St Philip Neri in London, a community of priests living under the rule of life established by its founder in the sixteenth century. The Oratory also serves as a parish church in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Westminster. Brompton Rd, London SW7 2RP. 020 7808 0900 www.bromptonoratory.co.uk/#about

Hyde Park

Right in the heart of London, Hyde Park offers both world-class events and concerts together with plenty of quiet places to relax and unwind. Dip your toes in the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain, brave an open water swim in the Serpentine, or admire the views across the lake from a waterside café. Have a go at tennis, horse riding, or join the many joggers, walkers and cyclists enjoying the open air.

London W2 2UH. 0300 061 2000

www.royalparks.org.uk/parks/hyde-park

Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace is recognised around the world as the home of The Queen, the focus of national and royal celebrations. It is open for guided tours on selected dates. Royal Collection Trust looks after the Royal Collection, and manages the public opening of the official residence s of Her Majesty The Queen. Through our work, from exhibitions and learning programmes to publications and retail products, we aim to ensure that the Royal Collection and Palaces are valued and enjoyed by everyone.

London SW1A 1AA. 0303 123 7300

www.rct.uk/visit/buckingham-palace

Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum exhibits a vast range of specimens from various segments of natural history. It is one of three major museums on Exhibition Road in South Kensington, the others being the Science Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum. With plenty to discover and learn for all ages your sure to have an adventurous family day out.

Cromwell Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 5BD. 020 7942 5000

www.nhm.ac.uk/

St James’s Park

St James’s Park includes The Mall and Horse Guards Parade, and is surrounded by landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, Clarence House and Whitehall. The park’s famous flower beds at the front of Buckingham Palace are a familiar backdrop to pageants including Trooping the Colour, as well as state visits and other ceremonial occasions. Enjoy views of the lake and fountain from St James’s Café, watch the resident pelicans at feeding time, or while away an afternoon in a deckchair.

London SW1A 2BJ. 0300 061 2350

www.royalparks.org.uk/parks/st-jamess-park

Science Museum

Our museum tells the stories of the extraordinary human achievement and technological advances that have helped humanity overcome challenges throughout history. From Helen Sharman’s iconic space suit to Amy Johnson’s marvellous Gipsy Moth aeroplane, these stories help ignite curiosity, encourage scientific endeavour and spark the imagination.

Exhibition Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 2DD. 0330 058 0058

www.sciencemuseum.org.uk/

Local Schools

Where our children spend most of their week and how they are being educated is a decision which should take some serious consideration. We have put together this list of suggestions to make your life a little bit easier. Many local schools and nurseries offer free tours so please go and visit your choice options before making that final important decision.

Knightsbridge School

We are incredibly proud of our school and the happy, vibrant and purposeful community that has been built here over the last fourteen years. When you walk through the blue doors you will be warmly welcomed into a friendly school where there is a palpable buzz; children chatting happily with one another and their teachers as they move between lessons, matches or clubs or heading off for a delicious lunch in the dining room. Exceptional pastoral care ensures that our children feel loved, and well supported by consistent messages based around the KS Code - both at school and at home. 67 Pont St, London SW1X 0BD. 020 7590 9000 www.knightsbridgeschool.com/

Prince’s Garden Preparatory School

Prince’s Gardens Preparatory School is a new independent school for boys and girls aged 3-11. An excellent academic education together with transferable skills prepares your child for the next stage of their schooling and the world beyond. It is so important to build close relationships between home and school, to make sure that any small worries do not grow to be larger concerns. It is our responsibility to know every single child, to support their journey through school and ensure that they flourish and grow.

10, 13 Prince’s Gardens, London SW7 1ND. 020 7591 4622

www.princesgardensprep.co.uk/

Miss Daisy’s Nursery School, Knightsbridge

Fondly described as a country nursery school in the heart of London, Miss Daisy’s offers a strong sense of community and a place where lasting friendships are formed, fun is shared and curiosity celebrated. Providing early years education for children aged 2 to 4 years of age, each child is supported and encouraged by an established and experienced team of qualified teachers and assistants. Through a balance of formal learning and learning through play, children enjoy the finest teaching at this most important stage of their education.

St Simon’s Zelotes Church Hall, Milner St, London SW3 2QF. 020 7730 5797

www.missdaisysnursery.com/

Hill House International Junior School (Upper School) Hill House is a family run school welcoming children from all over the world. We celebrate the individual. Every child has their own unique character and together we enjoy an energetic, inclusive and diverse community. We support children’s happiness and development, helping them to flourish and achieve their best while preparing them to be life long learners. Hill House is a warm and nurturing environment, full of fun and laughter, where the children are encouraged to have the confidence to take risks, explore interests and engage with the world and with each other.

17 Cadogan Gardens, London SW3 2RJ. 020 7730 9571

www.hillhouseschool.co.uk/

Marlborough Primary School

Marlborough is a well-established, inclusive and welcoming primary school with a full time nursery in a brand new building with excellent facilities. The school has been in existence since 1878 and we are very proud of its place within the diverse local community.

Draycott Ave, London SW3 3AP. 020 7589

8553

www.marlborough.rbkc.sch.uk/

St Barnabas’ CE Primary School and Nursery

Our school was founded in 1847 to serve the local community. As a Church school, St Barnabas’ has a long tradition of welcoming children from all religious faiths and those of none. We offer our children a high standard of education within a caring and secure environment where honesty, independence and trust are valued. We work closely with parents, governors, and our local community to offer our pupils a safe and healthy environment where they can develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to become lifelong learners and responsible citizens.

St Barnabas Street, Pimlico, London, SW1W 8PF020 7186 0152

www.stbarnabasprimary.org.uk/

Kensington Park School

At Kensington Park School, it is our mission to excite, challenge and inspire each of our students so that they become life-long learners and outstanding young people. KPS is a coeducational day and boarding school which is set in the heart of cosmopolitan central London. Each student is encouraged and expected to become a self-aware, confident, caring, and independent young adult such that when they leave, they will be ready for the world beyond school: able to engage, lead, and shape their own future successfully.

59 Queen’s Gate, South Kensington, London SW7 5JP. 020 7225 0577

www.kps.co.uk/

Godolphin and Latymer School

Godolphin and Latymer is a school for girls aged 11-18, where individual talents are championed and where students are encouraged to develop their own passions and interests. We are ambitious and innovative in our approach to teaching and learning to best equip and inspire our students to flourish in the outside world.

Iffley Rd, London W6 0PG. 020 8741 1936

www.godolphinandlatymer.com/

Interview with ‘Rainsford’

Over the years we have specialised in the design and build of many Listed and Conservation properties and as a design and build firm, we are able to take on challenging and complex planning applications, often bringing in and working with third party experts and specialists, such as Heritage and Planning Consultants. This work relates well to the period properties we work on in the countryside, where an appreciation of the historical vehicular is important when proposing any interior re-configuration or modern external intervention.

Whilst our country work is mostly in Hampshire, Berkshire and Oxfordshire, we recently completed a large new build project in the Isle of Wight where we are just completing our second project, so as a relatively small and nimble team of designers and builders, we are reasonably flexible in where we can re-locate to, for the right project.

Do you work with investors and landlords?

Tell us a little about the background of your firm?

Rainsford Ltd was started by Interior Architect Rupert Rainsford Mann in1998 and provides Architectural Design, Project Management and Construction Services for residential new build and refurbishment projects in the UK. We specialise in central London and also Home County properties, providing services to discerning clients who require a high level of finish and quality, with projects delivered on time and in budget. As well as our own capability to provide full architectural design services, as a Main Contractor we also work with some of the most highly regarded Architects, Designers and Developers from across the globe, on a wide range of prime residences from modern penthouse apartments to listed buildings and country houses, in both classical and contemporary styles. Our approach is based on listening to our clients and understanding from the outset the unique remit of their project and the most appropriate services to facilitate it. We then tailor our service to meet those particular needs. Our deliverables are entirely adaptable, and we generally find that we provide a fairly evenly spread scope, between providing a full ‘turnkey’ design and build service and taking on the Main Contractor role, alongside the clients’ own design team. Our head office in West Berkshire is well located for both our London and Home County projects and also refurbishments further afield.

What type of projects have you been working on recently?

In the last few years, we have had an interesting cross section of country and London based projects. We take on external and internal refurbishments of existing properties, as well as new builds .

Our London based projects are almost entirely in prime sites and comprise of single dwellings, town houses, lateral and duplex apartments.

We work across the board with Estate Agents, Architects, Interior Designers, Quantity Surveyors, Family Offices and Developers, as well as end users. Interestingly I’d say about 90% of our work comes through recommendations, working directly with the owners themselves or the owners team. One of our strengths is working with our clients and guiding them through each stage of the design and build process, engaging them as much or as little as they want. We also work a lot with overseas clients who we might see twice over the refurbishment period, and they entrust us to implement the full turnkey process to the point where they just need to pick up the keys and move in one year on.

Looking back, is there a job that you are most proud of?

We completed a total refurbishment of a lateral flat in Kensington on the 5th floor of a mansion block during the Pandemic. It required a lot of structural work and we not only had to overcome the many complications and technical hurdles thrown up by the building, but also manage this within the framework of the lock down procedures on site. Despite all this we managed to deliver a stunning project of great detail, on budget and on time, against all odds!

Are

you happy to give appraisals to Hamptons clients before they exchange?

Yes, we are, and we do this quite a lot working with agents and property finders, as not only does it help prospective owners to see the property in an alternative way, but it also allows us to form an important working relationship with any prospective client. Clear communication, coupled with inventive and practical solutions wrapped up in a transparent process, are what we find our clients are looking for, especially during these times when construction costs are at an all-time high. It’s about delivering your clients vision creatively, but for a reasonable cost and adapting to market conditions, giving your client the best value for money.

Fitness & health

Leading

a hectic life? Need somewhere to tone your body, recharge your muscles or simply stretch? We have put together the best locations for you to do just that. Whether you fancy going for a swim or need regular fitness classes, we know that our recommended providers will do their best to keep you in shape.

The Peak Fitness Club & Spa

Set across three floors and offering 360 degree views of the iconic London skyline, The Peak Fitness Club and Spa has been completely reimagined as the most exclusive private member’s health and wellness clubs in the capital. State of the art facilities including a naturally lit 20m pool, over 70 weekly fitness classes, bespoke TechnoGym equipment as well as access to an expert team of specialists, The Peak retakes its position at the forefront of London’s luxury wellness world.

The Carlton Tower Jumeirah 1, Cadogan Pl, London SW1X 9PY. 020 7858 7300

www.peakfitnessclubandspa.com/

Aquilla Health & Fitness Club

Discover a private gym and swimming pool in South Kensington and Knightsbridge. Adjacent to the Rembrandt Hotel, Aquilla has everything you need to work out and relax in stylish comfort. If you need motivation and expert guidance to achieve your fitness goals, our Personal Trainers are here to help. We can assist with training, nutrition, injury rehabilitation and more.

The Rembrandt Hotel, 11 Thurloe Place, South Kensington, London SW7 2RS. 020 7225 0225

www.aquillahealthclub.com/

Mind, Body, Spirit Pilates

Gillian Greenwood (BCPTT AFAA RSA ITEC) is a dancer, personal trainer, Body Control Pilates® and yoga teacher with over twenty years Pilates teaching experience, gaining her education in Los Angeles, New York and London. She studied and performed dance improvisation with Lindsay Kemp, who continues to inspire her. She also teaches pre/post-natal exercise, stress management, presents workshops, writes articles for Dental Health magazine and fitness magazines and is a personal trainer and masseuse.

65-67 Queen’s Gate, South Kensington, London SW7 5JS. 020 7385 3577

www.gilliangreenwood.com/

The Kensington Studio

We possess great passion and knowledge about Health and Fitness and are dedicated to helping you achieve your goals with a service tailored for you. The spacious and exclusive Studio is situated in the beautiful Stratford Village area of Kensington. We have equipped our 2,000 square foot Studio with the latest state-ofthe-art equipment. From the minute you arrive we’ll make the experience very personal to you, placing you with a trainer that’s in line with your goals and needs. There are no membership fees so you only pay for the training you do.

24a Radley Mews, London W8 6JP. 020 7937

4911

www.thekensingtonstudio.com/

The Gym Way

No crowds, no judgments, no hard sales, just great workouts, fantastic facilities, amazing classes, friendly members and an incredible training team. Personal Trainers are available to help perfect your regime for a healthier and fitter you.

147 Cromwell Rd, London SW5 0TH. 020 3771 0636

www.thegymway.com/kensington

Core Collective

Achieve your fitness goals in inspiring studio spaces with expert trainers. Our classes and workout programmes have been devised to help you improve your fitness. Personal goals. Train the way you want to with a range of different classes, which our trainers have divided into four categories. Whatever your goals, our classes can get you there. Together, we can go further.

23 Pavilion Rd, London SW1X 0HD. 020 7235 0608 www.core-collective.co.uk/

Hotpod Yoga Belgravia

We’re Europe’s largest yoga business. Since 2013, over 100,000 people have immersed themselves in a Hotpod class at one of our 50+ locations. You’ll stretch further, breathe deeper, sweat harder and melt fully into the Hotpod experience – a balanced flow of active and passive postures, working the body and calming the mind in equal measure. Bring water and a towel to enjoy the unique immersion that is a Hotpod Yoga class. To understand it, you’ve got to experience it

19 Eccleston Yards, London SW1W 9AZ. 020 3771 2285

www.hotpodyoga.com/studios/belgravia/

Claire Wilkinson Yoga, Meditation & Holistic Healing

I am a yoga and meditation teacher and a Reiki Master & Sound Bath Healer. Through my teaching my aim is to help you tap into your full potential and reconnect with your true self. I teach a weekly schedule of classes. Group classes in person in Kensington and also via Zoom. I coach students privately in their practice of Yoga & Meditation. I offer sessions of Reiki, Transformational Healing and also Sound Bath Healing. I run regular online courses Reconnect to Your Inner Self.

The Life Centre, 15 Edge St, London W8 7PN. 07970 745361

www.clairewilkinsonyoga.co.uk/

Ethos Sports Centre

Welcome to Ethos, our state-of-the-art sports facility in the heart of South Kensington. Our gym at Ethos is filled with state-of-the art equipment, featuring five designated work out zones allowing you to easily workout your target area.

7 Prince’s Gardens, London SW7 1NA. 020 7594 6660

www.imperial.ac.uk/ethos/

Local Restaurants

Osteria Romana

Hidden within the lanes of London’s luxurious Knightsbridge, Osteria Romana opens its doors to bring the simple elegance and humble dishes of the Eternal City to London, celebrating Roman produce, culinary history and limitless passion.

3-4 Park Cl, London SW1X 7PQ. 020 7584 5819

www.osteriaromana.co.uk/

Zuma London

London’s Zuma restaurant located in Knightsbridge, offers a sophisticated twist on the traditional Japanese izakaya style of informal dining, delivering an authentic flavour of the east while respecting the traditions of the past.

5 Raphael St, London SW7 1DL. 020 7584 1010

www.zumarestaurant.com/locations/ london/

The Mantl

Residing in the heart of luxury Knightsbridge, London - The MANTL a Turkish restaurant introduces a wealth of culinary experience through traditional cooking over hot coals to lovingly preparing modern Mediterranean cuisine to share amongst family and friends alike. The MANTL is truly at the heart of our home and is fired up for all to enjoy.

142 Brompton Rd, London SW3 1HY. 020 7584 6677

www.themantl.com/

Sale e Pepe

With over forty years of service, Sale e Pepe continues to attract loyal clientele from all over the world. Generations have come to rely on this traditional Italian trattoria just two minutes’ walk from Harvey Nichols and Harrods in Knightsbridge. Guests love the consistently good cooking, using fresh ingredients, the great atmosphere and the familiar faces of the friendly Italian staff who haven’t changed much in all the years Sale e Pepe has been open. The cuisine will remind you of your favourite meals in Italy.

9-15 Pavilion Rd, London SW1X 0HD. www.saleepepe.co.uk/

Signor Sassi

Over the years it became famous for it’s original simple Italian food and the atmosphere that is talked about around the world. Our guests come to Signor Sassi from all over the world, from royalty, politicians and business leaders to sports stars, Actors, and music legends. It is the jewel in the crown of Italian restaurants.

14 Knightsbridge, London SW1X 7QL. 020 7584 2277

www.signorsassi.co.uk/

Al Arez 2

At Al Arez, our main aim is to present the finest taste of Lebanese food to our customers, with a pinch of Lebanese generosity within a friendly family environment. Within Lebanese culture is the importance; these key parts of Lebanese culture and upbringing are the key to creating a wonderful experience in our restaurants, and making people want to come back for more. As a family-run business, we care about providing both the healthiest and tastiest food to our customers, but also providing a relaxed environment for socialising and chatting away. Food brings people together in Lebanon.

128 Brompton Rd, London SW3 1JD. 020

7584 0390

www.alarez.co.uk/

Chisou Japanese Restaurant Knightsbridge

Our two central London Japanese restaurants are tranquil, intimate and exciting spaces to enjoy some of the most beautifully authentic Japanese food London has to offer. We take our customers’ love of Japanese cuisine very seriously, creating menus filled with exceptionally well presented and seasonally changing dishes. You are invited to explore the best of Japanese cooking. Whether it’s a selection of super fresh sushi or sashimi served at the counter or a banquet of dishes accompanied by elegant sake and wine, you’ll find each restaurant a haven of traditional design with a modern ambiance.

31 Beauchamp Pl, London SW3 1NU. 020

3155 0005

www.chisourestaurant.com/

The Kitchen of Knightsbridge

Delight your senses with the most stunning live cooking experience in the heart of Knightsbridge; serving fresh, made to order Burger, Pasta Pizza dishes.

17 Knightsbridge Grn, London SW1X 7QN. 020 7584 4562

www.thekitchenofknightsbridge.com/

Ognisko Restaurant

Ognisko Restaurant is on the ground floor of the beautiful and elegant building that is the home to the Polish Hearth Club on Exhibition Road, South Kensington. Our restaurant and bar are both open to the public for lunch, dinner or drinks seven days a week. With a large terrace overlooking communal gardens, we’re ideal for alfresco dining during the sunnier periods. We also have a large events space on the first floor that is ideal for weddings, parties and corporate events, while it can also cater for smaller parties and dinners.

55 Exhibition Rd, London SW7 2PG. 020 7589 0101

www.ogniskorestaurant.co.uk/

Harry’s Dolce Vita

Our Executive Chef has created a menu full of unfussy Italian classics bursting with flavour. He has sourced all the ingredients with great attention from specialists in their field, working directly with Italian suppliers and importers. For example, our special blend olive oil is from organic olives grown on an agriculturally sustainable estate in the hills of Maremma, where the olive trees are tended with the greatest care.

27-31 Basil St, London SW3 1BB. 020 3940 1020

www.harrysdolcevita.com/

‘Virtually’ all you need

Some suggested local social media groups to help you connect, learn, buy, sell and have fun.

Knightsbridge

www.facebook.com/Knightsbridge-85623167479/

Knightsbridge Subdivision

www.facebook.com/groups/270587106901/

Knightsbridge and Chelsea Mums

www.facebook.com/groups/117761432249101

SW3 Community Group (Chelsea & Knightsbridge)

www.facebook.com/groups/ChelseaSW3

Knightsbridge Art Club

www.facebook.com/KnightsbridgeArtClub/

Knightsbridge Village twitter.com/KnightsbridgeV

Community gardens twitter.com/RBKC_garden

Kensington Village twitter.com/KensingtonV

Help and support from your localCouncil

You should inform your Local Authority of where you are moving from and where you are moving to around a month before you move. You can do this here.. https://system8.rbwm.gov.uk/publicaccesslive/selfservice/services/ changeofaddress/coastart.htm

You’ll need to include the forwarding addresses for every adult in the property that pays council tax.

Search for information and services from your council. Information for residents about The Royal Borough of Kensignton and Chelsea Council including council tax, bins and recycling, schools, leisure, streets and parking, this and lot’s more at the below link.

www.rbkc.gov.uk

Planning and Building Control

Unsure which services you need?

If you are thinking of making changes to your property, you may need to apply for planning permission and / or Building Regulations approval. If you’re not sure which applications to make, please use the guidance below to help you to decide what you need to do.

Please note that many developments will require both.

What is planning?

Planning is the process of deciding whether a proposed development should go ahead or not. It uses national and local policies to consider the development in its context and may look at the impact of the work on neighbours and the wider community, existing architecture, the land, the layout, and existing or proposed infrastructure (such as drains, transport and schools). You will probably need planning permission if your proposed development will do any of the following:

• create a new building, or change the use or appearance of an existing building

• affect the sunlight, privacy or outlook for neighbouring properties

• affect the nearby area with noise disturbance, smell or fumes

• work on or around listed buildings or any conservation areas

• affect traffic volumes, road safety or access

• change the density of development in an area

• use significantly different materials or finishes from nearby properties

• have an effect on existing trees

What is building control?

Building control applies national statutory regulations to ensure the structural quality of any building work, in areas such as safety, public health, accessibility, and the materials used. Most substantial building projects (such as an extension, knocking down walls or converting a garage or loft) will need Building Regulations approval.

www.rbkc.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control