BATTERSEA & CLAPHAM DECEMBER 2013 by ABSOLUTELY Magazines

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DECEMBER 2013 £3.95

JO BRAND

ON THE JOYS OF HECKLING

MORCHEEBA AND ME

SKYE EDWARDS TALKS MUSIC AND MOTHERHOOD

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CONTENTS 5 9

EDITO R ’ S

LETTER

December 2013

an it really be that time of year again? It seems only a few weeks ago we were rushing around for Fashion Week and now Christmas is back with a vengeance. And there seems to be no escape from the festive paraphernalia. Personally, I love Christmas, but it’s not without its issues. Present shopping, for one, can be a real nightmare. But hopefully this year will be different thanks to our luxurious Gift Guide. Rather than the usual categories of ‘For Him’ or ‘For Her’ (as though everyone who shares a gender will covet the same gifts, I mean, really?), ours is helpfully divided into personalities, so that you can find the perfect pressie for that uncle who loves his country pursuits or that sister who is a bit of a nomad. Ingenious, eh? Also enjoying the festive season this year is Jo Brand, who is appearing in the New Wimbledon Theatre panto, Aladdin. Bringing her distinctive humour to the role of the genie, she discusses the joys of heckling on p.20. We also catch up with Skye Edwards, lead singer of nineties band Morcheeba and mum of three. As she embarks on another world tour to promote their new album, she tells us why she’ll never be forgiven for leaving Battersea on p.27. So, all that’s left now is for me to wish you a very Merry Christmas. Until next year…

EDITOR’S LETTER ABSOLUTELY LOVES

Absolutely’s top picks this month

10 WHAT’S ON

Everything that’s happening in your area

20 GENIE-US

Comedienne Jo Brand on her fi rst foray into panto

STYLE 32 AWAY WITH THE FAIRIES

Our fantastical, fairy tale inspired fashion shoot

45 PARTY PIECES

Dazzling dresses and accessories

53 GIFTS GALORE

Need some Christmas shopping inspiration? We’ve got it all wrapped up

HEALTH & BEAUTY 47 BEAUTY NOTES

The latest in local beauty news

49 ALL THAT GLITTERS This season’s festive make-up

INTERIORS 70 A STITCH IN TIME

Stockwell resident Catherine Woram’s guide to a creating a very happy handmade Christmas

75 DECK THE HALLS Beautiful baubles

FOOD & TRAVEL 87 COCKTAIL HOUR

Charlie Gilkes rounds up some top festive tipples

94 MOUNTAIN HIGH ON THE COVER

Hit the slopes in style with our Swiss ski special

PROPERTY 116 IN THEIR OWN WORDS Thomas Crabtre, Sales Director of South London, Marsh & Parsons

Georgie Lane-Godfrey

124 SPOTLIGHT ON...

Editor FIND US ON FACEBOOK ‘ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES’ & TWITTER ‘ABSOLUTELY_MAGS’

The very best of what Earlsfield has to offer

130 PROPERTY NEWS COVER: LICKERISH

News and views on the market in your local area

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ABSOLUTELY C Battersea & lapham EDITOR Georgie Lane-Godfrey EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Catherine Hales EDITORIAL INTERNS Maya Dudok De Wit, Katie Pitcher CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Georgie Coleridge Cole, Charlie Gilkes, Robbie Honey

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ART DIRECTOR Ray Searle SENIOR DESIGNER Phil Couzens PRODUCTION MANAGER Stewart Hyde MIDWEIGHT DESIGNER Gemma Isteed PRODUCTION DESIGNER Edward Taylor ARTWORKER Ekrem Yilmaz JUNIOR DESIGNER Rebecca Noonan PRODUCTION CONTROLLER Christine Mann FINANCE DIRECTOR Alexandra Hvid M ARKETING MANAGER Leah Day

DIRECTOR Greg Hughes MANAGING DIRECTOR Sherif Shaltout PA TO THE MANAGING DIRECTOR Clarissa Forrest For editorial enquiries please email: editorial@zest-media.com For advertising enquiries please call 020 7704 0588 or email: advertising@zest-media.com Subscriptions are available simply by emailing subscriptions@zest-media.com. You can receive an online subscription for FREE or a postal subscriptions for 12 months, £30 respectively (to cover postage and packaging). Please email us with your preferred option and details.

Published by ZEST MEDIA LONDON 213 WESTBOURNE STUDIOS ACKLAM ROAD W10 5JJ T: 020 7704 0588 F: 020 7900 3020 Zest Media London Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Zest Media London Ltd. take no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved. FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @ABSOLUTELY_MAGS FACEBOOK ‘ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES’

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A B S O L U T E LY

FEVER TREE TONICS

All you need to throw an excellent Christmas party are Fever Tree tonics and good spirits (pun intended). These subtle, all-natural tonics aim to enhance, not mask your drink’s flavour. Plus the lack of calories will also make up for all those mince pies... 326 Battersea Park Road, SW11;

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CABBAGES AND ROSES 7

cabbagesandroses.com

Editor’s Pick JO MALONE’S CHRISTMAS COLLECTION

Often it's nice to justify our spending habits and Christmas fills that role beautifully. A stocking stuffer you’ll get credit for all year round, choose from the heavenly candles, room sprays and perfumes, or even splurge on a gift set.

jomalone.com

ANNA WRIGHT COLLECTION

VIVIENNE WESTWOOD’S COLLECTION

Anna Wright’s adorable and eyecatching designs come in mug, print and tote bag form and make for the perfect gifts (pretty handy around Christmas). We particularly love her flamboyant flamingos and primping penguins. Available to buy from The Pond Gallery, 26 The Pavement, SW4, 020 7622 4051;

Battersea local Vivienne Westwood is at it again. This time she's collaborated with some of our favourite British heritage brands including Globe-Trotter, Gloverall, Lock & Co. and Johnstons of Elgin & Pantherella. Classic anglophilia with that all-important Westwood twist; we would expect nothing less.

pondgallery.co.uk

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rolling around – what I want most in world is a home bursting with life and activity and as many people to love and play with as possible. If you’re interested in rehoming Doley McCoy, please contact Battersea Dogs & Cats Home on 0843 509 4444 for more information.

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L O V E S

Cabbages and Roses don’t shy away from drama with their AW13 collection and in our opinion they completely pull it off. Crushed velvets, sweeping hemlines and heavy fabrics are ideal for both wandering wistfully across a misty moor and cutting a swathe through the morning commuters. 3 Langton Street, SW10, 020 7352 7333;

11/11/2013 14:19

WHAT’S ON

In the Cinema

FROZEN

Directed by CHRIS BUCK Starring KRISTEN BELL, IDINA MENZEL

ans Christian Anderson’s classic tale The Snow Queen gets the Walt Disney treatment with this new animated adaptation. Featuring an all star cast including Kristen Bell, Idina Menzel, Alan Tudyk and Jonathan Groff, Frozen tells the story of two princesses, one named Elsa (Menzel), who is heir to the throne, and her younger sister Anna (Bell). Elsa has the power to create snow and ice at will but her powers are affected by her emotions and, after going into hiding, trigger an eternal winter that freezes the kingdom of Arendelle. Seeing this as an opportunity to seize power, the evil Duke of Weselton (Tudyk) turns the

people against her. Anna, accompanied by Kristoff the mountain man (Groff), his reindeer Sven and Olaf the Snowman (Josh Gad) must journey to find Elsa, now known as the Snow Queen, and put things right. The film initially experienced several false starts and delays in production due to the difficulty of adapting the often dark original fairy tale. The main difference occurs in the character of the Snow Queen herself who, rather than being evil, is merely misunderstood. Now equipped with a more sympathetic central character, the film promises to be the perfect Christmas cinematic experience for children and parents alike.

6 December

THE GOOD NEIGHBOUR

Battersea Arts Centre 6 Dec~4 Jan This interactive performance invites 6 - 11 year olds to discover the story of George Neighbour, a man who became a hero a few days before Christmas and whose memories have been lost in the many rooms of the Battersea Arts Centre’s old town hall. The young investigators will have to search through magical worlds and meet fabulous characters in order to uncover the mystery of George’s story. Finally, a performance where children are positively encouraged not to sit still! Lavender Hill, SW11, 020 7223 2223; bac.org.uk

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ABSOLU TELY

ARTS & CULTURE Don’t Miss CHRISTMAS EXHIBITION

Foss Fine Art 3~4 Dec Foss Fine Art will be holding their annual exhibition just in time for the Christmas period. There will be a stunning selection from over 20 artists of original works on canvas and unique 3D works in glass, porcelain and stoneware. 113b Northcote Road, SW11, 020 7738 0838; fossfineart.com

PILATES IN THE CARIBBEAN

Battersea Barge 1~12 Dec Sporting the tagline ‘Pity Keira Knightley, because they won’t’, this particular panto is not one for the kids. A flamboyant and definitely adult parody of the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise, the cult pantomime stars several stars of the London cabaret scene swashbuckling away as they face an evil sea witch, a crew of scurvy pirates and several questionable puns - all making for the perfect alternative Christmas entertainment. Nine Elms Lane, SW8, 020 7498 0004; batterseabarge.com

HANDMADE CHRISTMAS

CHRISTMAS CAROLS

Battersea Old School Club 9~13 & 16~19 Dec Wanting to use handmade decorations always starts off as a brilliant idea - until it comes to actually making them at which point a mercy dash to Debenhams is usually in order. Luckily, The Old School Club is offering lessons in how to put together everything from stockings and tree decorations to wreaths and table settings that can be used year after year and will add a distinctive personal touch to the yuletide decor. Unit 141, Battersea Business Centre, 99-109 Lavender Hill, SW11;

Battersea Square 3 Dec Music, whether it be Wham! or Bing Crosby, is an essential part of the festive season and yet opportunities to gather and sing carols are rather thin on the ground. Battersea Square’s annual carol event, sponsored by John D. Wood & Co., allows locals the rare treat of gathering together to sing about sleigh bells and figgy pudding (whatever that may be) and really get into the Christmas spirit. Add fireworks, mulled wine and mince pies and not even the Grinch stands a chance of ruining the mood. Battersea Square, SW11;

theoldschoolclub.co.uk

batterseasquare.org.uk

This month we’re talking about...

FRANK GEHRY

TO BUILD IN BATTERSEA enowned architect Frank Gehry is to erect his first ever London building on the derelict site next to Battersea Power Station as part of the new development. Gehry himself will be responsible for five apartment buildings which will feature a centrepiece already named ‘The Flower’ and which will, if the Canadian architect’s previous work is anything to go by, be an eye-catching addition to the area. Frank Gehry’s iconic and exuberant designs are famous throughout the world, some of his most well known being the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao and the ‘dancing apartment block’ in Prague, and often bring with them an incredible amount of tourism and unprecedented economic growth. Let’s hope Gehry’s magic works as well for Battersea and that the Battersea Power Station ends up with a worthy neighbour and that he brings Brad Pitt (his slightly unlikely apprentice) with him to London. foga.com

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ABSOLU TELY

ARTS & CULTURE Books 8 DEC

THE WHITE CHRISTMAS FAIR OUT OF TOWN

HOGMANAY Edinburgh

29 December ˜ 1 January

nly Scotland could turn New Year’s Eve into a four-day party – and we love them for it. Based around the pagan celebrations of Winter Solstice, it begins with a torchlight procession of up to 20,000 Viking revelers that wends its way from Parliament Square on the Royal Mile to Calton Hill. Traditional pipers and drummers will provide atmospheric background music to accompany the ceremonial burning of the long-ship, and wicker and willow effigies. The second night features a free street party on George Street that carries on till the wee hours, leaving little time to recover for the main event on 31st, the Hogmanay street party held in the city centre. At the stroke of midnight, fireworks illuminate the hills around the city, and form a stunning backdrop to Edinburgh Castle. New Year’s Day (if you have it left in you) is time for the ‘the loony dook’, when the maddest and bravest jump into the freezing waters of the Firth of Forth in South Queensferry to end these thoroughly decadent four days. edinburghshogmanay.org

PARKGATE ROAD Held in Battersea’s Test Bed 1, the fair presents an excellent Christmas shopping opportunity – think fur hats, silver jewellery, homewares, ladies fashion, art, antiques, framed prints and more. In addition to this, food stalls festooned with seasonal goodies will also be making an appearance, making walking away empty handed an impossibility. Test Bed 1, Parkgate Road, SW11; whitechristmasfair.co.uk

30 NOV

POP-UP CHRISTMAS SHOPPING DAY NORTHCOTE ROAD Don’t miss over thirty visiting traders taking part in a special Christmas pop-up on Northcote Road. Shoppers can browse stalls whilst sipping on hot chocolate (or mulled wine – it is Christmas after all), watching cooking demos, sampling the hog roast and enjoying street performances, all in the name of essential Christmas shopping.

10 DEC-11 JAN

BORIS & SERGEY’S VAUDEVILLIAN CHRISTMAS ADVENTURE

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH ON

Northcote Road 28 Nov You know it’s really Christmas when all the lights come on – well, that and the Christmas Coca Cola ad airing – and the lengthening evenings become colourful and bright. This year in Battersea the switching-on of the lights will be accompanied by carol singers, reindeers, funfair rides, Santa’s grotto, fire engines, a mini performance by the BAC and more. Several shops will also be staying open until 8pm, so you can sneak in a bit of extra Christmas Shopping, too.

THEATRE503 ‘Live sex shows, naked dwarf fights and the entire population of Patagonia will do a little a dance for your entertainment,’ claims Boris. Whilst the veracity of this statement may be questionable, the popularity of this bizarre duo’s Edinburgh Fringe sell-out performances is undeniable. Not for the faint of heart. The Latchmere, 503 Battersea Park Road, SW11, 020 7978 7040; theatre503.com

A LONDON YEAR By Travis Elborough & Nick Rennison

n anthology of short diary entries as well as the odd letter, with one or two entries for each day of the year spanning five centuries of life in the capital. This compilation provides an insight into the ever-changing nature of the city and the much more consistent people who have lived there in the last 500 years – the ideal read for those in love with London and all of its quirks. £25; Frances Lincoln

DAVID & GOLIATH by Malcolm Gladwell

ave you ever wondered why, against all odds, underdogs often come out on top? Malcolm Gladwell’s new book seeks to alter our perceptions of advantage and disadvantage using stories of extraordinary underdogs in history, science and psychology. A fascinating read that challenges conventional thinking about strength and weakness and what it means to be powerful, Gladwell’s singular thought process provides surprising and illuminating insight. £16.99; Allen Lane

BRIDGET JONES: MAD ABOUT THE BOY by Helen Fielding

ridget Jones, everyone’s favourite singleton, is all grown up and minus one Mr. Darcy. The widowed Bridget has had five years of single-motherhood (with infamous ex-boyfriend Daniel Cleaver, ironically enough, in the role of godfather) to cope with, and is now back on the dating scene. The rules have changed since her thirties even if her chorus of loyal, slightly supercilious, friends have remained the same. Fans of Bridget may feel Mark’s absence but Bridget’s larger than life antics more than make up for this. £16.99; Harper Collins

All books available from Clapham Books, 120 Clapham High Street, SW4, 020 7627 2797; claphambooks.com

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AB S OLU TELY

S O C I A L A BUNGA BUNGA BIRTHDAY

ollowing on from another rollercoaster of year of karaoke, singers, drag queens, brunches, pizzas and general mayhem, Battersea’s infamous Bunga Bunga celebrated its 2nd birthday with friends and famiglia last month. Throwing a big, fat Italian-style Buon Compleanno Party, owners Charlie Gilkes and Duncan Stirling lured their sloaney set across the bridge for

a night of Peroni, pizza, prosecco and Mediterranean melodies from latino band Colomboloco. Spotted in amongst the balloons and birthday cake was Uncle Silvio (or at least a smaller version sporting a Berlusconi mask!) who was promptly cream pied by general manager Andrew McHerron whilst everyone sang Happy Birthday. Just another normal night in Bunga Bunga then…bungabunga-london.com

GEMMA EDWARDS AND SIANA QUDER

4 CHIARA ORSELLI, RACHELL FRETAS, SERAVAT PEDROS AND MARCCELLA FRERTAS

6 ERMANO DIAS AND MAXWELL STIRLING

HAYLEY WARDES, UNCLE SILVIO, WILL DOBBS AND FARAH LABORDE

LISSA MURRY, EMMA LI, LUCY MCCORMACK AND OLLY GRAHAM-YOOL

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12/11/2013 11:09

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AB S OLU TELY

S O C I A L

4 HARRY STYLES

ARTY PARTY

oesn’t everyone just love an arty party? Popping up last month in Battersea was the roaming Loughran Gallery, bringing with it Jessica Zoob’s solo exhibition, Dancing with Colour. Unsurprisingly, the private view for this spectacularly colourful display of Contemporary Impressionism

drew quite the crowd, including One Direction’s Harry Styles. Vying for ‘Best Guest of the Evening’, the teenage heartthrob showed his support for his friend and curator Juliette Loughran not just by charming the pants off everyone there, but by buying a painting too. And that, readers, is what makes him beautifu-u-ul…

6 CARLIONE RÜTER AND LOUISE KUGELBERG

7 FRANCOIS DELAGE, JESSICA ZOOB, LES COPLAND

6 LIZZIE AMBOULE AND GEMMA STYLES

CAITLIN BRIODY AND BRITTANY GLOSSOP

ALEX PARTAKIS AND HEIDI RANGE

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14/05/2013 16:53

GEORGIE LANE-GODFREY, GEMMA BILLINGTON, JULIANO SOARES AND FRIEND

4 KATE TURNER AND SOPHIE MONTGOMERY

AB S OLU TELY

S O C I A L

4 THE ABSOLUTELY PROPERTY GIRLS

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO US!

wise woman once said ‘Ain’t no party like an Absolutely party’ and oh, was she right! We celebrated one year of our wonderful titles last month by fi lling Battersea Art’s Centre’s majestic Council Chambers with South West London’s fi nest. It didn’t take long for the rather naughty Top Shelf Band to get the party started with some fi lthy jazz, and the dance floor was soon swinging. Guests enjoyed numerous tasty titbits in the

form of Sugar & Spice canapés, which were washed down with some delicious Chase Elderflower Liqueur cocktails and Williams Chase Gin and Fever Tree Tonic G&T’s. Later, we all blushed pink with delight as everyone sang us happy birthday when the cakes were cut (each iced with a previous cover of Absolutely, of course) and danced the night away as South West London TV fi lmed the revelry. *Sigh*. If only it could be our birthday every day…

4 PAIGE HARKNESS AND CLIFFORD HARVEY

4 SOPHIE BOWMAN AND DIONIE NEWBY-BOWES

TOM WARD AND FRIEND 4 THE TOP SHELF BAND

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A NEW BRAND OF MAGIC GEORGIE LANE-GODFREY TALKS TO JO BRAND ABOUT PANTOS, PSYCHOS AND THE CHALLENGE OF THE GENIE

n the press release for the New Wimbledon Theatre’s production of Aladdin this month is a quote from Jo Brand. It reads: ‘I’m very much looking forward to doing my first panto, although I would have preferred Cinderella because I realise that I am a role model for many glamorous young women.’ This, of course, is typical of Brand. She’s been making these jokes with her trademark deadpan delivery since the 80s, building a career out of self-depreciating humour in the process. Maybe she's had to – her eccentric, nonconformist appearance has made Brand an easy target for hurtful comments ever since she started. As a result, self-depreciation has become not just her shield but her weapon; a way of both deflecting hurtful comments and discombobulating her hecklers. ‘The thing is,’ she explains to me matter-of-factly over the phone, ‘what I always thought about being self-depreciating is that I can actually put myself down in a much more entertaining way than

you can, so let’s get that out of the way and move on, you know?’ It turns out, I do know, as does pretty much everyone else. Brand has always been one of those comics who has divided opinion, her marmite feminist comedy proving to be either hilariously funny to some or highly irritating to others. Unfortunately for her, it’s the latter category who are more vociferous, as she discovered in her very first show when one heckler told her to ‘f*** off, you fat cow’. Brand was apparently undeterred, owing she believes to her previous job as a psychiatric nurse. ‘It was an incredibly stressful job and occasionally violent,’ she explains, referring to the time she was threatened with a machete. ‘So from that point of view stand-up comedy was a piece of cake. It’s very rare during a show that you actually get physically threatened by somebody, whereas as a nurse that was a part of my job which I simply accepted.’ Brand however soon learned how to deal with these taunts. ‘I have a continuum of heckle putdowns starting from quite nice

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ABSOLU TELY

ARTS & CULTURE

I have a continuum of heckle putdowns from quite nice to nuclear

and going all the way up to nuclear personality-destroying,’ she tells me gleefully when I ask her about how she deals with it. She seemed so cheerful when telling me about them that you get the impression Brand actually relishes the chance to beat hecklers at their own game, a defiant ‘do-your-worst’ attitude towards those who dare take her on. ‘I don’t actually mind heckling that much,’ she admits. ‘I think that if a certain type of heckling gets going which is inclusive, it can really suit the show and make the evening much for fun. The only sort of heckling which I don’t like is psychopathic death threats and telling me that I’m a filthy whore. It’s far more to do with content than the act itself.’ In fact, Brand is now doing something which actively encourages heckling: pantomime. This month she’s starring alongside former TV presenter Matthew Kelly and Britain’s Got Talent winners Flawless in Aladdin, where she will be playing the Genie. Panto might seem an obvious choice for a comic, but when it comes to Brand’s feminist principles, it seems an odd one. Surely this is one those art forms which propagates the gender stereotypes she’s trying to dispel? She pauses a moment. ‘Well, I wouldn’t get involved in Punch and Judy for that reason. Pantomime has a history of gender stereotypes sure, but if you look at the Hackney Empire Panto, that’s a challenge to gender stereotypes and I don’t see why, given that I’m going to have fairly free reign in this panto and that the Genie is a male character, I can’t challenge it in some way.’ 21

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ABSOLU TELY

ARTS & CULTURE Of course Brand is no stranger to challenging these gender stereotypes; when she first went into stand-up, there were only about six female comedians on the circuit. The odds would have been completely in her favour had in not been for the sexism she encountered. It’s a problem which has improved, she says, but which is still very much present – so much so that when I ask which other female comics she admires, she simply replies: ‘To be honest with you, I admire any woman who gets up and has a crack at standup because, having been through the process myself, I know that it can be very, very difficult at times.’ I mention Bridget Christie, another feminist comedian who won this year’s Perrier Award. ‘I think what Bridget tries to do is to include men rather than push them away, and to get men to be supportive towards women,’ she says insightfully. ‘Men who are misogynists aren’t going to change until other men tell them not to be like that, rather than women telling them.’ Having been continually portrayed as a foul-mouthed aggressive feminist in the rightwing media, Brand has had a hard time with the press. Despite this, when I speak to her I find her gentle and very amiable. She also is really rather kind – when I ask her for stand-up tips, she seems genuinely interested and ready to offer support. Incidentally I’m not planning on doing stand-up

any time soon, but for those who are she did impart the following wisdom: ‘I suppose the secret to being a successful stand-up is number one: have a sense of humour, number two: be able to talk about things to which other people can identify and number three: try and make people laugh but,’ she finishes with a laugh, ‘if you don’t, just go home. It’s very straightforward really.’ Jo Brand is appearing in Aladdin at the New Wimbledon Theatre from 6th December – 12th January. For tickets, visit atgtickets.com. 22

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11/11/2013 17:18

ABSOLU TELY

ARTS & CULTURE

LET’S GET

QUIZZICAL HAVE YOU BEEN PAYING ATTENTION TO THE NEWS THIS YEAR? TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE WITH ABSOLUTELY’S QUIZ OF THE YEAR

01 During the summer’s unprecedented heat-wave, the sun’s rays reflecting from a distinctively shaped London skyscraper were so powerful that they melted a Jaguar parked nearby. What is the nickname of the building in question? 02 Prince George of Cambridge was born on 22nd July 2013. The youngster has seven godparents, but only one is a member of the royal family. Who is it?

03 The Tate Modern held a major retrospective earlier this year on which influential American artist? 04 Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy, the much-anticipated new Helen Fielding novel, was published in September this year to lukewarm reviews. Before this, what year had we last seen Miss Jones in her second book, The Edge of Reason?

09 British actor Charlie Hunnam has pulled out of his role as Christian Grey in the highly-anticipated film adaptation of Fifty Shades of Grey, due to be released late next year. Which little known actor has replaced him? 10 Andy Murray won Wimbledon this year, making him the first British victor in 77 years. Who was the last British man to win?

05 Margaret Thatcher passed away in April this year. Which irreverent comedian wrote a piece in The Guardian about an unusual encounter with her in the gardens of Temple, which was described as a moment that ‘inspired only curiosity, a pale phantom, dumbly filling her day.’? 06 Voice artist Marcia Wallace sadly passed away in October. Which perennially cynical character did she play in The Simpsons? 07 Which renowned architect has chosen Battersea Power Station as the location for his first London building? 08 Which famous and very old UK attraction is set to open a new visitors’ centre on December 18th?

ANSWERES 1. The Walkie Talkie 2. Zara Phillips 3. Roy Lichtenstein 4. 1999 5. Russell Brand 6. Edna Krabappel 7. Frank Gehry 8. Stonehenge 9. Jamie Dornan 10. Fred Perry

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ABSOLU TELY

ART & CULTURE

Mum on Tour MORCHEEBA.indd 27

AS THE FRONT WOMAN FOR ICONIC NINETIES BAND MORCHEEBA, SKYE EDWARDS IS BEST KNOWN FOR HER DREAMY VOCALS AND DARK SUBJECT MATTER. NOW, WITH MORCHEEBA’S EIGHTH ALBUM UNDER HER BELT, SHE TELLS ABSOLUTELY ABOUT MUSIC, MOTHERHOOD AND WHY SHE’LL NEVER BE FORGIVEN FOR LEAVING BATTERSEA… 27

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ABS: Rome was your biggest hit commercially, but it alienated some of your more loyal fans. How have you made this album commercial without losing Morcheeba’s classic appeal? SE: You know, I wasn’t a fan of Rome when Paul first played it to me, but it helped us become more of a headline act at festivals so I kind of have a love/hate relationship with it. On this album, songs like Under The Ice still feel up-tempo, but vocally, melodically and lyrically, are still beautiful. Of course there will be people who don’t like this record but it still feels like Morcheeba; it still has those dreamy ingredients.

when you’re on the tour bus always wear shoes whenyou go to the loo...

ABSOLUTELY: Tell us about your new album Head up High. SKYE EDWARDS: We all decided that for this album, we wanted to write something that was a little more up-tempo that could possibly be played on the radio. We didn’t want to write another Rome Wasn’t Built in a Day, but we certainly wanted something that people could dance to, so Paul went away and worked with a drummer to really focus on the beats and rhythms.

bit of reggae, a bit of pop and a bit of rock, so it felt like trip hop didn’t really describe what we were about. Obviously people need a box to put you in, so I usually tell them to google the name Morcheeba and make their own minds up because I can’t describe it! ABS: Do your kids listen to your music? SE: They do and they give us their opinions. One of the beats came through for To The Grave and my son said it was ‘sick’ so, in his teenage language, that was a thumbs up! My daughter who is 15 was also really impressed that we did a track with Rizzle Kicks. I mean, I’m still Mum at the end of the day so it’s hard to impress your children, but now and then they do say, ‘yeah, that’s cool.’ ABS: You’re just about to embark on a world tour. What’s it like being a mum on tour? SE: It’s easy when they’re babies. We took our youngest son touring with us from the age of seven weeks and he was with us every day. There

aren’t many parents who can say that they’ve spent every day with their child right up until the age of four. But then it gets to the stage when they’ve got to go to school and you’ve got to leave them behind. It’s a little bit stressful. Our son has an iPad so we can do video chats (otherwise why would a child have an iPad at the age of five?!) but it works quite well. It’s the criticism from other people who say you’re not a good mum because you’re not there 24/7 which is hard to take. ABS: But it can’t always be easy, even when they are babies? SE: We do have help, for example when my eldest was a toddler we were touring in America, so a friend of mine came along to help care for him. When you’re on the tour bus you don’t drink the water from the taps, so we had to make formula for him using bottled water. One morning we noticed that he was falling all over the place and everyone was laughing saying he looked drunk. So I picked him up and he just stank of alcohol, and when I looked at the bottle it

ABS: How do you think as a band you fit into the music industry today? SE: We do well all over Europe but as far as radio goes there’s no place for us in the UK, especially the popular stations like Capital or Radio One. It doesn’t bother me at all though as we still have a really good following from the early days. So where do we fit in? I don’t know. We’ve got our own little niche really. ABS: That niche being trip hop? SE: The label trip hop feels a little dated, in fact it felt dated by the time we brought out our second album – I felt like we’d outgrown the label. Even on the first album we had songs like Col which were just a voice and a string quartet. Over the years we’ve managed to include a bit of blues, a

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ABSOLU TELY

ART & CULTURE

was baby formula milk mixed with vodka. Turns out somebody had swapped the water in that bottle with vodka and my friend hadn’t realised. We all started panicking thinking he was going to get alcohol poisoning and that the authorities would think we were irresponsible parents and take him away from us. In the end he was absolutely fine, but we were so worried at the time. Still to this day no one has admitted to swapping the water for vodka! ABS: What's it like as a front woman for a male-dominated band? SE: I’m quite easy going but you have to remember that it’s not just two men, it’s brothers as well so you’ve got that other dynamic to contend with. It’s more of a working relationship, but it works well. In the early days I did think that I had to try and keep up with the boys and their drinking, but I’ve grown out of that now and I’ve learned to enjoy being a woman…and also to always wear shoes when you go to the loo on a tour bus! ABS: You’ve recorded much of your work at studios in Clapham. Do you still have links to the area? SE: We recorded this album over in Forest Hill where Ross lives as his girlfriend was just about to give birth, but I used to hang out around Lavender Hill as I had a flat around the corner from Clapham Junction. My mother-in-law loved that flat because there was an M&S down the road. I don’t think she’s ever forgiven me for selling it…

Morcheeba’s new album ‘Head Up High’ is out now; morcheeba.co.uk

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ABSOLU TELY

CATWALK & CLOSET

Santa Lady ADD A SEASONAL TOUCH TO YOUR WARDROBE WITH ELIE SAAB’S FESTIVE HAUTE COUTURE FROCKS

Temperley London, available from net-a-porter.com Elie Saab AW13 Haute Couture Collection; eliesaab.com

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Goldilocks YELLOW LACE DRESS, DOLCE AND GABBANA AT MATCHES TULLE UNDERSKIRT (WORN UNDERNEATH) ALICE + OLIVIA AT NET-A-PORTER CREAM TIGHTS, FALKE AT WWW.MYTIGHTS.COM SHOES, VALENTINO AT NET-A-PORTER CHOCOLATE BROWN KNICKERS, WHAT KATIE DID

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12/11/2013 11:28

Once upon a

time

Fashion meets fantasy in our festive, fairy tale inspired shoot

Photography: Squiz Hamilton

Styling: Thea Lewis-Yates

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Little Red Riding Hood RED PATENT MAC, BURBERRY PRORSUM BLACK SHEER HEART SOCKS, FALKE AT WWW. MYTIGHTS.COM BLACK ANKLE BOOTS, GUCCI RED WOOL BERET, STYLIST'S OWN

NOV SHOOT_Fairytale.indd 34

12/11/2013 11:29

Snow White WHITE NIGHTSHIRT STYLE DRESS, GILES AT MATCHES GOLD SIGNET RING, SOPHIE BREITMEYER

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12/11/2013 11:29

Alice in Wonderland DUCK-EGG BLUE SILK JACKET AND SKIRT, GUCCI GREY AND BLACK 2-TONE LEATHER COLLAR, MARNI PEARL NECKLACE (WORN UNDER COLLAR), BASIA ZARZYCKA CREAM SOCKS, FALKE AT WWW.MYTIGHTS.COM

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12/11/2013 11:29

Dorothy BLUE AND RED HECK SILK DRESS, VIVIENNE WESTWOOD COUTURE CREAM BLOUSE WITH BLACK RIBBON TIE, ROCHAS AT NET-A-PORTER RING, GABRIELLA PARKES (JUST SEEN) PALE BLUE TIGHTS, STYLIST'S OWN

NOV SHOOT_Fairytale.indd 37

12/11/2013 11:29

Gretel TARTAN AND FUR JACKET AND MATCHING MINI-KILT, RED VALENTINO WHITE SHIRT, VIKTOR AND ROLF BLACK VELVET BOW (IN HAIR), SIMONE ROCHA LATEX BLACK KNEE-HIGH SOCKS, ATSUKO KUDO

NOV SHOOT_Fairytale.indd 38

12/11/2013 11:29

Rapunzel CREAM VINTAGE COTTON SHIRT, MISCHKA VINTAGE BLACK LATEX KNICKERS, ATSUKO KUDO BLACK LEATHER BELT, ALEXANDER MCQUEEN AT NET-A-PORTER

NOV SHOOT_Fairytale.indd 39

12/11/2013 11:30

Sleeping Beauty BABY PINK FEATHER DRESS, OSCAR DE LA RENTA PINK SATIN BALLET SHOES, FREED OF LONDON RING, GABRIELLA PARKES

STYLIST - THEA LEWIS-YATES MODELS - VIKA AT NEVS AND ULYA AT PREMIER MAKE-UP - YIN LEE AT ERA MANAGEMENT USING M.A.C COSMETICS HAIR - EUGENE DAVIES AT FTWS USING DIVA PRO AND BUMBLE AND BUMBLE PHOTOGRAPHER'S ASSISTANT - SAM SOLOKU STYLIST'S ASSISTANTS - JOANNE MULCARE AND LAURA SOPHIA COX MAKE-UP ASSISTANT - JOANNE REYES HAIR ASSISTANT - WAYNE SHORTER-CAMPBELL

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12/11/2013 11:30

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ABSOLUTELY PROMOTION

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SIX MONTH SMILES HOW TO ACHIEVE A PERFECT SMILE IN JUST SIX MONTHS What are six month braces? Six Month Smiles are a cosmetic braces system. They are designed to improve the appearance of the smile which is basically the eight front teeth, six front teeth, or four front teeth.

How does it work? The programme uses high tech methods to move your teeth in a rapid but safe manner. Because it focuses only on moving those teeth which show when you smile, the process is kinder and quicker than with regular braces. The steps in the programme are as follows...

Consultation: At the first appointment the dentist will gather information from you about what you would like to achieve. They will check with x-rays, photographs and impressions that your teeth are suitable for the treatment and are clinically sound.

Manufacture:

Fitting: Fitting is performed by a cosmetic orthodontic expert and will ensure your new six month braces are fitted perfectly to your teeth so they are ready to move to their new positions.

Check-ups: Over the course of the six months, patients are asked to return on average once a month for checking and adjusting the braces.

Removal: Once the straightening is complete, usually in 4-9 months time, you can go and have your braces removed, where you will be fitted with a retainer to avoid the teeth relapsing into their original positions. This is usually a bonded retainer which is fitted to the back of your teeth and completely invisible from the outside. www.ilovestraightteeth.co.uk 226a Upper Richmond Road, Putney, London SW15 6TG 020 8788 8588

The impressions and records of your teeth are sent to the specialist Six Month Smiles lab in the US, where your customised braces will be manufactured and sent back to your dentist.

ADVERTORIAL ALKALI DENTAL.indd 43

12/11/2013 16:15

ABSOLUTELY PROMOTION

TIME TO SHINE FOR CHRISTMAS Battersea’s All About The Girl picks its top festive products

WINTER SUN

WILD & WONDERFUL

Banish the winter blues with this easy-to-use Q10 tanning mousse. It works quickly to give you a gorgeous natural glow so you will be party ready in an instant!

If you are looking for original Christmas gifts to make you smile then Cowshed’s Christmas collection is just for you! From the mini crackers to the gift trios there really is something for everyone on your list whatever their moo-d!

TOP TIPS

CHRISTMAS COMPLEXION

Add some glitter and twinkle to your nails this Christmas with Leighton Denny’s ‘Gold Rush’ and ‘Flower Power’. Use on their own or over your favourite colour for instant sensational seasonal sparkle!

Late nights during the party season can leave your skin feeling as tired as you are. Use Masque Essentiele Nutrition Confort twice a week as its natural oils will immediately boost your skin’s radiance and glow!

OPENING TIMES:

Mon/Tues/Wed/Fri 9am-7pm. Sat 9am-6pm. Sun 11am-5pm. Late night Thurs 9am-9pm.

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MAGICAL MEMORY SPRAY Make your Christmas blowdry last even longer with Bumble and Bumble’s ‘Spray de Mode’. Its soft flexible hold and incredible style memory means even when brushed your hair will bounce back into shape!

ALL ABOUT THE GIRL ADV_v2.indd 44

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ABSOLU TELY

Editor’s Pick

CATWALK & CLOSET ALEXANDER MCQUEEN PEARL JACQUARD-KNIT DRESS, £1145; matchesfashion.com

DUNE LUSTROUS SILVER BROGUE, £79; dunelondon.com PERCOSSI PAPI GOLDPLATED MULTI-STONE EARRINGS, £1,375; net-a-porter.com

MARKS & SPENCER

EDIE PARKER JEAN DIAMOND CLUTCH BAG, £1095; matchesfashion.com MONSOON SALLY SEQUIN SKIRT, £99; uk.monsoon.co.uk

ACCESSORIZE ICICLE DROPS COLLAR, £25; uk.accessorize.com

GEORGE BAROQUE BODYCON DRESS, £14; asda.com

RAZZLE DAZZLE SPARKLE & SHINE WITH THIS SEASON’S FESTIVE FASHION

JIMMY CHOO BESSO TEXTURED & MIRRORED LEATHER SANDALS, £550; net-a-porter.com

ASOS LEATHER CLUSTER EMBELLISHED GLOVES, £35; asos.com

KAT MACONIE NATASHA HEEL, £190; katmaconie.com

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30/10/2013 15:15

ABSOLU TELY

HEALTH & BEAUTY DRAMA QUEEN

If there’s ever a time you can get away with a dramatic look, it’s party season. We love MAC’s striking nail varnishes and eyeshadows – perfect for enlivening an LBD ensemble.

OF THE

BEST

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1 2 Nail Lacquer in Deep Sea, £11, Available from Debenhams, 315 Lavender Hill, SW11; maccosmetics.co.uk

3 1. Givenchy Eclat Matissme Mattifying Foundation, £32.50; givenchybeauty.com 2. Chanel Poudre Universelle Compact Naturel, £33; chanel.com 3. Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Even Finish Compact Foundation, £32; bobbibrown.co.uk Mineralize Eye Shadow in Caribbean, £17, Available from Debenhams, 315 Lavender Hill, SW11; maccosmetics.co.uk

BEAUTY Confidential

CHRISTMAS CRACKER

Not big on chocolate? Try Aromatherapy Associates Ultimate Collection instead. Filled with ten sumptuously therapeutic blends, it makes a great alternative advent calendar for grown-ups. £50, Available from Space NK, 39 High Street Wimbledon, SW19, 020 8947 9399;

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SALON REVIEW | WAHANDA.COM

NEW ROMANTICS

Fancy adding a touch of gothic glamour to your make-up? Try russian beauty brand Rouge Bunny Rouge, whose lines are inspired by the romanticisim and fantastical fairy tales of Victoriana. This season’s look, ‘Utopia’, is the third instalment of its ‘Enchanted Journey’ series of make-up stories. Our favourites? The two Long-lasting Eye Shadows: Rain Dove, a light caffé-latte hue, and Rufus-tailed Weaver, a darker dusky brown.

beautybay.com

k, I admit, this isn’t really a salon review in the usual sense. You see, Wahanda isn’t actually a salon, it’s a beauty treatment booking service. Providing an online home for health, beauty and wellness, Wahanda lets you pick a treatment, see which salons offer it in your local area, and get the discounts on offer to you as a Wahanda user. Candid reviews from the Wahanda community will help you narrow down your choice of salon and treatment, so that once you’ve decided, all that’s left for you to do is select a time and date, then pay. It really is that simple.

I booked to have a back neck and shoulder massage at Zest Hair & Beauty on Battersea Park Road as part of the ‘Peace of Mind’ treatments by Dion. A qualified beauty therapist for over 20 years,

the massage was excellent – good firm pressure, extra attention for problem areas and a debrief after the treatment on how to keep those knots at bay. The fact that it’s already pre-paid when you leave is also a real bonus, as it means you don’t have to bring yourself back to reality as you search the recesses of your mind for your forgotten pin. And when you get an email offering credit simply for imparting the details of your experience to the Wahanda community, you that know that you’re onto a winner.

Dion at Zest Hair & Beauty, 159 Battersea Park Road, SW8, 07793 491375; wahanda.com

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ABSOLU TELY

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Editor’s Pick

12 2

11 10 3 9 4

GLIMMER & GLOW

GET READY FOR THE PARTY SEASON WITH THESE FLIRTY FESTIVE PRODUCTS

1. Paco Rabanne Lady Million Perfume, £65 for 80ml; debenhams.com 2. Illamasqua Pure Pigment in Beguile, £16.50; illamasqua.com 3. MAC Divine Night Kohl Power Eye Pencil in Orpheus, £15.50; maccosmetics.co.uk 4. Benefit They’re Real Mascara, £19.50; benefitcosmetics.co.uk 5. Benefit High Beam Highlighter, £19.50; benefitcosmetics.co.uk 6. NARS Eye Paint in Black Valley, £18.50; uk.spacenk.com 7. MAC Divine Night Mineralize Blush in Talk Of The Town, £22; maccosmetics.co.uk 8. Vita Liberata Capture The Light Translucent in Gold, £29.95; vitaliberata.co.uk 9. Illamasqua False Eye Lashes No. 21, £14.50; illamasqua.com 10. OPI Nail Varnish in In My Santa Suit, £11.50; opiuk.com 11. Colour By Benefit Longwear Powder Shadow in Blingo, £15.50; benefitcosmetics.co.uk 12. NARS 413 BLKR Lipstick in Warm Rose Brown, £18.50; uk.spacenk.com

FASHION PRODUCTS.Dec_use.indd 49

12/11/2013 11:39

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ABSOLUTELY PROMOTION

DO YOU WANT TO LOOK FABULOUS FOR THE CHRISTMAS PARTY SEASON? It’s that time of year again - Little Black Dress time! This means you’ve got the next 30 days to get yourself into shape in time for the Christmas party season.

hispers and Life Fitness training have joined forces to offer you a fantastic total beauty and weight loss package that’s guaranteed to have you looking fabulous in your favourite Little Black Dress. Get the body you want for the holidays with this can’t-fail beauty and fitness plan. Our 4 Week ‘Little Black Dress’ Package includes • 4 beauty treatments • 4 ‘little black dress’ 121 training sessions • Christmas nutritional and dietary advice • Free gift: Party Pack Advanced Nutrition supplements (Skin Vitality1/Glutamine Powder/Skin Vit C). Whispers is a little oasis. A moment to destress or a complete afternoon to unwind and relax. Whispers provides the perfect environment to immerse yourself and indulge in some pampering, stocking everything from Skin Care to luxurious life style products. Life Fitness Training will inspire you to reach your health and fitness potential. We integrate scientifically proven techniques to create bespoke and progressive programmes to ensure you achieve outstanding results. Life Fitness Training specialises in weight loss and toning, pre and post natal ﬁtness, injury rehabilitation, Pilates, strength and conditioning, sport speciﬁc training, holistic lifestyle coaching based in the heart of the Abbeville Village.

Get the body you want for the holidays with this can’t-fail beauty and fitness plan.

RANGE: SkinCeuticals La Sultan De Saba Essie Neom Organic Candles Mary Portas - Kinky Knickers to name a few. Promo package Little Black Dress 4 x Beauty Treatments on offer: WEEK 1 Pick-Me-Up Facial WEEK 2 Skin Softening Body Buff WEEK 3 Smudge free 2 week Gel Manicure WEEK 4 SiennaX Tonight’s the Night Spray Tan.

Don’t just wear your little black dress at your next Christmas party – ROCK IT!!

Whispers 51 Abbeville Road, London SW4 9JX 0208 675 7700 info@whispersbeauty.com www.whispersbeauty.com www.lifefitnesstraining.co.uk

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12/11/2013 18:01

BEAUTIFUL WEIGHT LOSS It's always the right time to try something new. New to you, but where hundreds of people just like you have bravely gone before. They've lost weight, got properly fit and found a balance, a way of living, that will outlive a thousand fads. We are weight loss experts. We don't mess around. Our plans support you intelligently from start to finish and then we show you how to keep it - forever. For nearly twenty years we've changed the bodyshape, habits, mindset of exceptional people, just like you. It doesn't matter if you've failed before. What matters is that you're content with where you are. If not, set aside some time and just get the job done - once and for all. The Intensive Programme combines our simple eating method with world class personal training. We train you for optimal fat burn and metabolic uplift. In your own home - six hours a week. Our Dietitians coach you, monitor your body composition weekly and ensure you're highly motivated. Most women lose twenty pounds, men thirty. Such is life. Our Optimum Weight Loss Programme coaches you personally for 12-weeks, shedding body fat and taking you back to basics. No gimmicks. We simply teach you how to eat again. We cut through any lifestyle challenges and show you how to come out on top. We can support you from our Belgravia Clinic absolutely anywhere in the world. We obsess about your metabolism, so you don't have to. Simply hand yourself over and do exactly what we say. For six weeks, or twelve. We'll be honest about what you need. All we have is our health and our bodies – whatever your age or lifestyle, we will help you be the best you can be. Why settle for compromise? We don't.

Sound Accessible Nutrition | Metabolic Workouts | Intelligent Lifestyle Support

www.louiseparker.uk.com Telephone: 0800 084 2828

FULL PAGE.indd 2

23/09/2013 12:59

FROM GIFTS FOR GLOBETROTTERS TO PRESENTS FOR LITTLE PRINCESSES, ABSOLUTELY PICKS ITS FAVOURITE FESTIVE FINDS TO CREATE THE ULTIMATE CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

Dec_Gift_Guide_Opener.indd 53

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A BS O LU TE LY

GLORIOUS GIFTS

For The

SY BA R I T E … What do you buy the person who has everything? Absolutely picks the most indulgent gifts around…

1 T US

VE HA

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1. HENDRICKS GIFT PACK, £795; harrods.com

2. CAROLINE HERRERA 212 VIPMEN, £51 for 100ml; selfridges.com

3. JAQUES OF LONDON 1972 FISCHER SPASSKY MAHOGANY BOX CHESS SET, £399.99; jaqueslondon.co.uk

4. CRYSTAL HEAD VODKA GIFT SET, £60; crystalheadvodka.com 5. FOLIO SOCIETY’S ‘THE GREAT GATSBY’, £29.95; folioscoiety.com 6. BEAUTIFUL BOTTOMS ORIENTAL BIRD NIGHT ROBE, £116; beautifulbottoms.com 7. FATE BY AMOUAGE, Available at Les Parfums in The Exchange, Putney, £200 for 50ml; theexchangesw15.com 8. DE BEERS AURA STUDS, £3,225; debeers.co.uk

Editor’s Pick ASPINAL OF LONDON MARYLEBONE TOTE IN MONOCHROME SAFFIANO,

£795; aspinaloflondon.com

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DISCOVERMORE

INSPIRATION

ARTS

FLEXIBLE

SPORT

CHALLENGING ACHIEVEMENT

SPIRITUAL GROWTH

TRADITIONS

REALISED

INTEGRITY

BROAD SELF-BELIEF

CURRICULUM

NURTURING

SUCCESS

HAPPINESS INCLUSIVE INNOVATIVE

STIMULATING

SELF

CAMARADERIE

SOCIAL

TEACHERS

GROWTH

INDIVIDUALITY

THE RIVER

CREATIVITY

DIFFERENT ENERGY

PIONEERING

BALANCE

INQUISITIVE

HUMANITIES MODERN

OUTSTANDING

COMMUNITY

POTENTIAL

EXCELLENCE

FUN RESPECT

SCIENCE

DOOR

POSITIVITY

FRIENDSHIPS

CONFIDENCE

OPEN

ASPIRATION

ESTEEM

FULFILMENT

The new independent co-educational senior school for West London

OPEN DAYS October 23rd (7pm) November 7th/21st (9.30am/9.30am) December 3rd/10th (9.30am/7pm)

T: 0208 742 2038 E: info@kewhouseschool.com W: www.kewhouseschool.com @kewhouseschool

Places Available in Years 7, 8 & 9 KEW HOUSE SCHOOL_NOV.indd 2

07/10/2013 14:32

A BS O LU TE LY

GLORIOUS GIFTS

For The

AESTHETE Absolutely’s most beautiful buys for those with utterly impeccable taste…

Editor’s Pick

7 1. BARBARA COUPE SKI SAFARI DESTINATION CUSHION, £89; barbaracoupe.co.uk

5. CRÈME DE LA MER BY BOUCHERON, £12,550; cremedelamer.co.uk

2. FARROW & BALL DECORATING WITH COLOUR (RYLAND PETERS & SMALL), £35; amazon.co.uk

6. BETSY BENN PERSONALISED NUMBER ONE CASSETTE PRINT, £34; betsybenn.co.uk

3. OLIVER BONAS ASTRID CUPS, £5 each; oliverbonas.com 4. LIVE LAUGH LOVE SANDY TOES METAL SIGN, £14.95; livelaughlove.co.uk

7. HILLARY’S COUNTRY RETREAT PILLOWS, £24 each; hillarys.co.uk

graham & green

SWISS ALP PAPER WEIGHTS

£9.50 each; grahamandgreen.co.uk

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Wrapping up this Christmas? Think Southside

And many more...

southsidewandsworth.com

Open â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;til late 6 days a week | 14 screen cinema | 1180 secure parking spaces 70+ great stores & restaurants | Virgin Active Health Club SOUTHSIDE_SC.indd 2

11/11/2013 17:29

A BS O LU TE LY

GLORIOUS GIFTS

For The

GOURMAND ‘Tis the season to savour and scoff these scrumptious seasonal gifts

Editor’s Pick 3 2

7 1. WAITROSE BAKING FRENCH CAMEMBERT IN CERAMIC DISH WITH FIG, PECAN AND HONEY, £7.99; waitrose.com 2. VINTAGE CAMEMBERT PRINT PLATES, £28.95; rigbyandmac.com 3. BISCUITEERS CHRISTMAS EVE BISCUIT TIN, £38.50; biscuiteers.com

4. VOUCHER FOR CHRISTMAS AFTERNOON TEA AT THE RITZ, £65 per person; theritzlondon.com 5. M&S COOK WITH A LITTLE SPICE, £10; marksandspencer.com 6. PERRIER JOUET 2004 BELLE EPOQUE CHAMPAGNE, £120; selfridges.com 7. WINTER COCKTAILS (QUIRK BOOKS), £17.99; amazon.co.uk

Fortnum & Mason

TWELVE DAYS OF CHRISTMAS MUSICAL MERRY GO ROUND BISCUIT TIN £15; fortnumandmason.com

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Anthony de Grey Gardens

Your local gardeners are selling Christmas Trees again this year from their showroom at 40 North Street, SW4 0HD Traditional and non-drop trees in sizes from 3’-8’ available from November 30th Ring 020-7738 8866 to order in advance Free local delivery Monday - Friday!

Beautiful Gardens Conceived, Created, Restored, Preserved and Maintained

Broadhinton Yard 77A North Street London SW4 0HQ

Tel: 020-7738 8866 www.anthonydegrey.com sales@anthonydegrey.com

www.anthonydegrey.com | sales@anthonydegrey.com

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12/11/2013 15:23

La Nonna

ANTHONY_XMAS.indd 1

• Acres of private fenced fields • Constant supervision • Heated indoor areas • Swimming pools • Agility course • Socialisation

Great food and great atmosphere! Open all day Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Years’s Eve and New Year’s Day!

Call: 0207 205 2230 www.brucesdoggydaycare.co.uk

Bruces Doggy Day care.indd 1 •ADVERTS.indd 3

213-217 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 • Tel: 020 8542 3060

Liscensed & Insured

LA NONNA_DEC.indd 1 11/12/2012 19:43

w w w. l a n o n n a . c o . u k

07/11/2013 09:58 12/11/2013 15:25

A BS O LU TE LY

GLORIOUS GIFTS

For The

C O U N T RY PH I L E Tally Ho! Absolutely’s favourite gifts for the rural at heart

Editor’s Pick

4 5

6 8 9

5. NEXT SQUIRREL CUSHION, £12; next.co.uk

1. THEO FENNELL 18CT ROSE GOLD & COLOURED ENAMEL CUFFLINKS £4,250; theofennell.com

6. TED BAKER BEETLE BUG HIP FLASK, £25; tedbaker.com

2. BURBERRY CHECK CASHMERE SCARF, £295; uk.burberry.com

7. GUN STOCK SHOOTING SHADOW BOX, £150; thegreatgiftcompany.com

3. CRABTREE AND EVELYN GILDED CHESTNUT SCENTED CANDLE, £28; crabtree-evelyn.co.uk

8. ALEX MONROE FOX, RABBIT & MOUSE CHASE BRACELET, £195; alexmonroe.com

4. HUNTER LEATHER CARTRIDGE BAG, £195; hunter-boot.com

9. HOUSE OF FRASER STAG TABLE LAMP, £80; houseoff raser.co.uk

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This is not a TV. This is a new era. mirror screen Your home, Your Style

www.mirrorscreen.co.uk

Select from one of our ranges: 

Bespoke Series Completely individual



Traditional Choose from our collection of over 100 frames



Contemporary Choose any colour from Farrow & Ball range

exclusively available at: 1st Stop Audio Visual



Chelsea showroom: 247 Kings Road London, SW3 5EL Phone 020 7349 8970

FIRST STOP.indd 2

Battersea showroom: 83 Lavender Hill, London, SW11 5QL Phone 020 7978 6262

29/10/2013 09:30

A BS O LU TE LY

GLORIOUS GIFTS

For The

A DV E N T U R E R Absolutely’s perfect presents for wandering souls

4 5

Editor’s Pick

1. CHAMONIX KANDAHAR VINTAGE SKI POSTER, £4,200; originalskiposters.co.uk 2. PATEK PHILIPPE WORLD TIME REF. 5130J IN 18K YELLOW GOLD, £30,520; patek.com

6 7

3. CLASSIC PLAIN TRAVEL COLLECTION IN TURQUOISE LIZARD & CREAM SUEDE, £150; aspinaloflondon.com 4. EDDIE HARROP THE WEEKENDER BAG, £385; eddieharrop.com 5. GLOBETROTTER AND THE GORING COLLECTION SUITCASE, £1,470; globetrotter1897.com 6. LOMOGRAPHY BELAIR X 6-12 JETSETTER, £269; lomography.com 7. JO MALONE BLUE SPRUCE DELUXE CANDLE, £115; jomalone.co.uk

MUST

HAVE theo fennell

18CT WHITE GOLD & ENAMEL SKI GOGGLE CUFFLINKS £8,250; theofennell.com

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Wishing all babies born in 2013 the joy of family, the gift of love and the best of health.

In 2013, The Portland Hospital was very proud to welcome around 2,000 babies into the world and cared for over 50,000 children. As the wonder and magic of Christmas approaches, the team at The Portland Hospital wishes you and your family our warmest seasonal greetings.

Telephone: +44 (0)20 7390 8202 www.theportlandhospital.com Internationally renowned for clinical excellence, The Portland Hospital is the only private hospital in London entirely dedicated to women and children. FULL PAGE.indd 2

06/11/2013 11:37

A BS O LU TE LY

GLORIOUS GIFTS

For The

LITTLE ONES Have yourself a merry little Christmas with these perfect pint-sized presents…

HAUST VE

1. OILILY COAT COW, £199.90; oililyshop.com 2. THE GREY FAIRY BOOK, £44.95; foliosociety.com 3. ACCESSORIZE OWL SATCHEL, £25; uk.accessorize.com

4. CARLUCCIO’S PINGUINI, £3.95; carluccios.com

5. ‘THE SMARTYPANTS GUIDEBOOK’ BY ELISABETH BRAMI (SEUIL JEUNESSE), £15.99; petit-bateau.co.uk 6. PAPERCHASE BLUE ROBOT MONEY BOX, £5.75; paperchase.co.uk 7. OLIVIER BABY & KIDS CHRISTMAS JUMPERS, from £64; olivierbaby.com 8. SKRIBBIES CUSTOMISABLE HIGH TOPS, £35.95; skribbies.com

Editor’s Pick

NORDIC KIDS AW13 nordickids.co.uk

XMAS LITTLE ONES.indd 65

12/11/2013 11:58

KONIG KITCHENS_DEC.indd 2

05/11/2013 09:43

ABSOLU TELY

HOUSE & GARDEN

Winter

WONDERLAND ADD A TOUCH OF WOODLAND CHARM WITH HOUSE OF FRASER’S FESTIVE LINEA COLLECTION

House of Fraser; houseoffraser.co.uk

Dec_Interior_Opener.indd 67

12/11/2013 12:04

THE DIGITAL PIANO CENTRE

A Special Gift for a Gifted Musician ...this Christmas at the Digital Piano Centre! 92 Kingston Road, Wimbledon SW19 1LA Tel: 020 8540 5541 • Email: info@hanna-pianos.co.uk STONE AND CERAMIC WAREHOUSE 51/55 STIRLING ROAD, CHISWICK W3 8DJ EXTENSIVE FREE PARKING

www.digitalpianocentre.co.uk

A.HANNA & SONS.indd 1

020 8993 5545

CALL FOR A COPY OF OUR NEW BROCHURE www.sacw.co.uk OPEN 7 DAYS

12/11/2013 STONE 09:48 CERAMICS.indd 1

15/10/2012 10:42

FREE COLLECTION & BOXES

CLAPHAM JUNCTION

COURIER SERVICES

Worldwide & UK deliveries of urgent documents packages and parcels.

Expert Service Competitively Priced Painting & Decorating | Wallpaper Hanging

PACKAGING SOLUTIONS

Colour Consultancy | French Polishing

A complete range of specialist packaging supplies and professional packing services. Insurance provided.

For a Complimentary Quote Call 07903 721 032 | info@lookdecor.co.uk www.lookdecor.co.uk

LookDecor.indd 1 •ADVERTS.indd 4

Mail Boxes Etc. Clapham Junction 264 Lavender Hill • London • SW11 1LJ • t +44(0)207 924 7459 f +44(0)207 223 3406 • e info@mbeclaphamjunction.co.uk www.mbeclaphamjunction.co.uk

05/11/2013 17:39

12/11/2013 11:32

ABSOLUTELY PROMOTION

A LATIN ODYSSEY Lesley Neale takes an adventure of a lifetime through the Mayan world with Putney’s Latin Odyssey ravelling to Guatemala and Belize with Putney’s Latin Odyssey was an incredible experience. We booked with them because they’re renowned as specialists in tailor-made travel to South & Central America and they didn’t disappoint. Latin Odyssey offer a bespoke ‘concierge style’ service, as they know that each client has their own personality and their own individual way of travelling. This begins with a private presentation with the family at home. The hotels they recommended offered a personal, more intimate experience and there is often a wide range of options from chic boutique, colonial style retreats to rustic beach hideaways. On arrival in Guatemala, our private guide took care of everything – making restaurant reservations, organising private city tours, suggesting places to go to that

were off the beaten track but made the holiday so much more memorable. Flying to Tikal, the jungle-clad Mayan ruins in the north, and being woken up by howler monkeys at 6am was an unforgettable, if slightly scary, experience, but the kids loved it! The private guided tour of the site was outstanding, as the guides brought the site to life for the kids whilst still being informative with the adults – a tricky balance! A private 4x4 vehicle transferred the family into Belize, where a stop at the hidden Mayan ruins of Yaxha was an unexpected delight. Latin Odyssey even arranged a private picnic next to one of the temples – nothing was too much for them. The hotel they suggested here was superb, thanks to the excellent service, fantastic pool for the kids and lovely homemade local food. There are also heaps of activities on offer, including zip-wiring across the jungle,

jaguar spotting and tubing down the river, each offering their own mini-adventure. The short flight over the barrier reef – the second longest in the world – to the small island of San Pedro meant relaxation. Days here were spent relaxing on the beach, though the kids were busy snorkelling, fishing, kayaking and swimming with sharks and stingrays – the perfect end to an incredibly well organised holiday.

Special offer for Absolutely readers (quote ref: LOAB13): Travel to Guatemala and Belize with Latin Odyssey in March for 13 nights from £2,290 per adult, including international flights. For more information: 020 8704 1389 info@latinodyssey.com www.latinodyssey.com

LATIN ODYSSEY ADV.indd 69

12/11/2013 16:03

A Crafty Christmas IN AN EXTRACT FROM HER NEW BOOK, STOCKWELL RESIDENT CATHERINE WORAM GIVES HER GUIDE TO CREATING A VERY HAPPY HANDMADE CHRISTMAS

MATERIALS

• Tracing paper and pencil • Scissors • Pins • Red or green gingham fabric • 12in (30cm) ribbon, approximately • 1⁄2in (1cm) wide, for the decorative trim and hanging loop

• Needle and thread • Sewing machine • Polyester wadding (for the filling)

With right sides facing stitch the tree shapes together using the sewing machine. Leave an opening of around 3in (8cm) on the bottom straight edge of the fabric to insert the filling. Trim and notch the corners of the fabric and turn to the right side. Cut a length of ribbon, measuring 4in (10cm), fold it in half, and stitch it to the top of the tree to form the hanging loop.

Trace a tree motif onto the piece of paper with the pencil. Cut out the tree template, pin it to the gingham fabric, and cut out the tree shape with the scissors. (Fold the fabric in half so that you can cut out two layers at a time.)

Insert the stuffing into the bottom of the tree shape. Use a pencil or knitting needle to push the stuffing inside the decoration. Stitch the opening closed by hand to finish.

Lay the ribbon trim along the bottom straight edge of the tree on one layer of the fabric, about 3⁄4in (2cm) from the edge, and stitch into position. You can either sew the ribbon to the fabric by hand or use the sewing machine.

GINGHAM TREE DECORATIONS ou can make these simple tree decorations in pretty red and green gingham fabric and then decorate them with lengths of ribbon to hang from your tree. You could also add some further embellishment in the form of tiny buttons and beads if you wish. If you have time, then making enough of these decorations to cover your Christmas tree will create a really stylish look.

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Mix the distilled water, glycerine, and dish-washing detergent in the jug. Add about two teaspoons of glitter, and stir. Pour the mixture into the jar to the brim. Use the spoon to scoop off any bubbles that may be produced by the dish-washing detergent.

SNOW GLOBES

hese simple yet magical T snow globes are made from jam jars and are decorated with snowflake designs. Filled with vintage-style Christmas cake decorations and a generous sprinkling of silver glitter, they would make a great gift for any child. Children will love to make these snow globes, too, although they will need some adult supervision.

Use a template to trace the snowflake design using a pencil onto a small square of paper. Place the paper inside the jar and use some sticky tape in order to hold it in place. Carefully fill in the snowflake outline with tiny dots using the white three dimensional fabric pen. Allow to dry for an hour or until completely dry.

To make the jar extra watertight, use a small amount of clear silicone bathroom sealant around the top edge before tightly screwing on the lid.

MATERIALS

• Paper and pencil • Jam jar with lid • Sticky tape • Three-dimensional fabric pen in white Waterproof tile adhesive Christmas tree decoration 2 cups (500ml) distilled water 2 teaspoons glycerine 1 teaspoon clear or pale-coloured dish-washing detergent Measuring jug Silver glitter Clear silicone bathroom sealant

• • • • • • • •

TOP TIP

Put a blob of the waterproof tile adhesive in the middle of the underside of the jar lid. Leave the adhesive to dry for an hour or so or until it has hardened slightly. Press the Christmas tree decoration into the adhesive and leave to dry completely.

You can create a collection of snow globes using jars in different sizes. As well as Christmas trees, try using other decorations, such as a Santa Claus or snowman. Adding coloured glitter will also create striking effects

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three rows of gold sequins with a single row of white sequins until you reach the top of the cone. You’ll find it easier to use the gimp pins at the top of the cone because they won’t stick out on the other side when you press them in.

Push the single-beaded pin through the top of each cone and use this to support the gold stars. Write the initials of your guests on the star labels with the pen. Apply a dab of glue to hold the star in position at the top of each cone.

SEQUINNED CONE PLACE SETTINGS hese stunning place settings are made from polystyrene cones (available from craft stores) studded with beads and sequins. Top each cone with a painted golden star bearing your guests’ initials to create a glamorous effect for a festive dining table.

Paint the polystyrene cones and the tree-top stars in gold and leave to dry thoroughly. You may need several coats of paint to achieve full coverage. This helps prevent any unsightly white gaps between the sequins.

MATERIALS

• Gold acrylic paint and paintbrush • Polystyrene cones • Wooden stars (for the tops of the trees) • Gold pearl beads • Dressmaker’s pins • Gold and white cup sequins • Gimp pins (shorter pins for cone top) • Single pin with beaded head for each cone

• Fine black pen • Hot glue gun (or all-purpose glue)

Starting at the base of each cone, thread a pearl bead onto a dressmaker’s pin followed by a cup sequin, and press the pin firmly into the cone. Repeat in neat rows around the cone, alternating two or

Christmas Crafts by Catherine Woram is published by CICO Books at £14.99 and available from all good bookshops. Alternatively call 01256 302699 quoting GLR 8UE to purchase a copy at the special price of £10.99 including free p&p. For further information, please visit cicobooks.co.uk.

INTERIOR BOOK EXTRACT_Dec.indd 72

12/11/2013 12:13

BEAUTIFUL AND INSPIRATIONAL BATHROOMS BY GLASSTRENDS

We are a local established company offering traditional service and values along side high quality and competitively priced brands. Please feel free to call in for a chat about your bathroom requirements where one of our experienced advisors will be happy to guide and advise you through your bathroom design. Visit our showroom at 163a St John’s Hill, London SW11 1TQ or CALL 020 7223 4017 to receive our brochure. Alternatively visit www.glasstrends.co.uk

ASK ABOUT OUR PRICE MATCH GUARANTEE ON BESPOKE SHOWERS

Grate Expectations has been established and successfully running for over 25 years and remains a family business. Whether you're looking for a rare antique feature, a classic reproduction, or a truly impressive contemporary feature we offer you the technical advice & assistance required with full in house bespoke design fans and chimney lining a speciality.

1-3 Station Buildings, Kingston Road, Wimbledon Chase, London, SW20 8JT Showroom: 0208 540 8387 LANDSCAPE GRATE EXPECTIONS.indd 1

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www.grateexpectations.com info@grateexpectations.com

17/01/2013 14:08

12/11/2013 15:41

INTERIOR ELEGANCE LONDON

‘It all starts with a sketch’

Interior & Spatial Design Project Managed & Tailor Made

FULL INTERIOR & SPATIAL DESIGN SERVICES BOUTIQUE SERVICES DIY SERVICES

Accessible Aspirational Interior Design 10% off design if you quote “Absolutely”

For a complimentary consultation please contact us on 07711 408 111 or 07711 408 117 info@interiorelegancelondon.com www.interiorelegancelondon.com InteriorElegance_Dec.indd 1 IEL_OCT.indd 1

31/10/2013 04/09/2013 10:28 17:21

36 Durham Road, Wimbledon, SW20 0TW info@forestbailiff.co.uk | 020 8947 5115 | www.forestbailiff . c o . u k

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O CHRISTMAS TREE!

10 of the best

10 5

AUBLE

Editor’ks Pic

5 8

1. Fabric Owl, £3; waitrose.com 2. Party dog globe decoration, £12.50; berryred.co.uk 3. Heart Decoration, £3; waitrose.com 4. Record player, £8.95; rigbyandmac.com 5. Knitted Bauble, £3; waitrose.com 6. Large silver bird bauble, £3.75; berryred.co.uk 7. Silverface The Cat Christmas Bauble, £16.95; rume.co.uk 8. Embroidered Felt Heart, £3; waitrose.com 9. Knitted Mittens, £3; waitrose.com 10. Red Paper Mache Decoration, £2.50; oliverbonas.com

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DESIGN

www.helenturkington.com

4-5 The Parade, St. Johns Hill, Clapham, SW11 1TG. T: 020 7228 9435 HELEN TURKINGTON.indd 2

12/11/2013 10:33

ABSOLU TELY

HOUSE & GARDEN Editor’ks Pic

DECK THE HALLS

8 7

of the best

CHRISTMAS WREATHS

1. JOANNA WOOD GOLD GLITTER BERRY WREATH, £38.99; joannawood.co.uk 2. JOHN LEWIS PRE-LIT PINE WREATH 60CM, £35; johnlewis.com 3. MOYSES STEVENS WREATH, £70; harrods.com 4. MARKS AND SPENCER’S PINE CONE AND BERRY WREATH, £19.50; marksandspencer.co.uk 5. OKA FAUX CONE AND BERRY WREATH, £85; okadirect.com 6. PAPERCHASE WOODEN STAR WREATH, £12; paperchase.co.uk 7. SACHA WHITE OUTDOOR LED WREATH, £40; habitat.co.uk 8. LINEA WOODLAND CHARM PINE CONE WREATH, £50; houseoffraser.co.uk

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hudson construction ltd

hudson Construction Ltd 27 Angel Road | Thames Ditton, Surrey KT7 0AU 0208 224 5061 | www.hudsonconstruction.co.uk Company Reg: 7489468

HUDSON.indd 1

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2 5 3

LITTLE BOXES Ab s olut e ly th e b e st a dve nt c a l e n d a r s

9 7

1. MINI BOLOGNA HOUSE, £10.95, carluccios.com 2. MINI MANI MONTH CALENDAR, CIATE, £42, spacenk.com 3. ADVENT HOUSE, £55, gltc.co.uk 4. LEGO FRIENDS ADVENT CALENDAR £19.99, friends.lego.com 5. THE ADVENT CALENDAR, £30, prestat.co.uk 6. TRUFFLES FOR TWO ADVENT CALENDAR, £26, hotelchocolat.com 7. LIMITED EDITION ADVENT CALENDAR BY SUSIE WATSON, £45.00, biscuiteers.com 8. ADVENT CALENDAR TEALIGHTS, £12, vandashop.com 9. YULETIDE CAROLERS POP-UP CALENDAR, £9.99, vandashop.com 10. WOODEN FORTNUM & MASON ADVENT CALENDAR, £125, fortnumandmason.com

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We pride ourselves on a mission to produce delicious, fresh and imaginative food conducted with a high level of personal involvement and a flexible approach.

Book now for Christmas parties

CORPORATE EVENTS, PRIVATE PARTIES, WEDDINGS AND PICNICS

Unit 19, Battersea Business Centre, 99-109 Lavender Hill, London SW11 5QL TEL: 020 7978 4008 ď ś WWW.SUGARANDSPICEFOOD.COM

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Trimmings ADD A TOUCH OF DECADENCE TO YOUR CHRISTMAS LUNCH WITH SAINSBURY’S SUCCULENTLY PLUMP ROAST GOOSE

Available from Sainsbury’s, 2-6 Werter Road, SW15, 020 8789 6286; sainsburys.co.uk

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PUB OF THE MONTH

QUEEN ADELAIDE WAN D SWO RTH

R E S TAU R A N T R E V I E W

AUGUSTINE KITCHEN

GEORGIE LANE-GODFREY TAKES A TRIP ACROSS THE CHANNEL AT NEW BATTERSEA BISTRO AUGUSTINE KITCHEN

e had high expectations for Augustine Kitchen. But then, as the latest venture from Franck Raymond, the chef behind London’s oldest French restaurant Mon Plaisir, you’d expect to. Over the years Raymond has garnered a legion of followers for his Covent Garden bistro, including some of the toughest restaurant critics. The pressure is undeniably on. The new restaurant south of the river is named after his grandmother, and focuses on produce from Raymond’s native Evian region. On the menu are those typical dishes – French onion soup, cassolette of snails, Savoie cheese board, bouillabaisse – all designed to add to the idea of Gallic authenticity. The only thing which doesn’t quite fit in with the rustic French bistro vision is the décor – it felt a little confused. The slick black leather seats are more modern gastro pub than granny Augustine’s kitchen, and the random assortment of mirrors and pictures feel more like an afterthought than homely additions. When we visited, the restaurant was still pretty empty, yet service was slow. When the very apologetic waitress brought my Butternut Squash

Tortellini to start, it was sweet and fresh, but I would have preferred for the flavour of the squash to come through in the filling as well as the sauce. My date however had an excellent Lobster Bisque. Creamy, peppery and wonderfully fishy, it totally outshone my tortellini. And then, after another lengthy wait, onto the mains. I had ordered the Roast Duck Magret with spicy poached pear and timut pepper sauce whereas my date had ordered a classic Steak Frites – Scottish rib eye with herb butter and chips. This proved to be the strongest of the courses, with both dishes presenting perfectly pink meat. The spiced pear accompaniment also complemented the duck well without detracting from the bird’s flavour. To finish, we shared the chilled rice pudding with pink pralines and pistachio – a comfortingly nostalgic dessert, but one which probably would have been better served hot. Our overall impression? The food obviously has potential, but Augustine Kitchen still has a fair few issues to iron out before it realises its ambition to become Battersea’s best local bistro. Augustine Kitchen, 63 Battersea Bridge Road, SW11, 020 7978 7085; augustine-kitchen.co.uk

LOOK Wine boxes, giant wicker lampshades, mismatched vintage crockery on pantry-style shelves and eclectic artwork – the Queen Adelaide has just undergone an impressive refurb to channel curiosity-shop charm.

VIBE Grab a mulled cider and snuggle up with a blanket under one of the outdoor heaters on the white pergola, or stay indoors and enjoy a glass of merlot by the roaring fire.

FOOD Share the Queen Adelaide’s picnic to start, a novel platter of crayfish Scotch egg, venison sausage roll, potted ox cheeks, pickles and aubergine salad. Save room for dessert though as the Royal Flush is not to be missed – an irresistible trio of Salty Jack caramel ice cream, Queen of Puddings and King George’s plum pudding. Deliciously patriotic.

DRINK Yes, there’s an enviable range of craft and cask ales, but here it’s the wine list which reigns supreme – over 40 world class wines, more than 30 of which are served by the glass.

VERDICT Perfect for a good old fashioned Sunday Roast after a brisk walk in the park. God save the Queen!

FIND IT Queen Adelaide, 35 Putney Bridge Road, SW18, 020 8874 1695; thequeenadelaide.co.uk

RESTAURANT REVIEW_Dec.indd 83

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Call in for: Brunch, lunch or dinner Freshly roasted coffee 100% homemade bread, cakes & pies Healthy sandwiches Fully licensed for beers & wines Free range meat Soft play area for children

285 Putney Bridge Road Putney SW15 2PT Tel: 020 8780 9393 E: team@theputneycanteen.co.uk www.theputneycanteen.co.uk

We’re Open Mon: 7.00 am - 4.00 pm Tues - Fri: 7.00 am - 11.00 pm Sat: 8.00 am - 11.00 pm Sun: 8.00 am - 5.00 pm

C LEAVERS FREE RANGE BUTCHERS

285 PUTNEY BRIDGE ROAD, PUTNEY SW15 2PT Tel: 020 8780 2285

E: meat@cleaversbutchers.com

www.cleaversbutchers.com

At Cleavers we believe in locally sourced, quality artisan foods BUT at value prices. FEEL FREE TO POP IN AND CHAT OR BROWSE Our meat comes from a selection of wonderful farmers, many small holders raising just 30 animals at a time. traditionally reared • farm assured • responsibly farmed OPEN SUNDAYS & EVERYDAY TILL LATE

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BA R OF THE MONTH

THE TOY SHOP PUTNEY

R E S TAU R A N T R E V I E W

BOMBAY DINE

JAMES MACAULAY DISCOVERS A PASSAGE TO INDIA IN BATTERSEA

n his most recent television series, Rick Stein travelled from Mumbai to Kolkata in search of his ‘perfect curry’. Last Wednesday night, I found mine on Lavender Hill. Sorry Rick. The interior of Battersea’s Bombay Dine is clean, modern and understated – a reassuring contrast to the establishment’s slightly garish white façade. We received a warm welcome from the manager and our waiter for the evening, which drowned out the slightly less welcome audial assault from the obligatory piped music. Nevertheless, we ordered two bottles of light Nepalese lager – wonderful – and thankfully moved away from the pipes on to our table. The concept of Bombay Dine is to provide authentic, albeit pan-Indian, cuisine with a modern twist. You can find the old classics – king prawn bhuna, murg (chicken) jalfrezi – but the vast majority of the menu is composed of far more authentic and tempting fare. Our waiter informed us that all of the dishes are low-fat and are prepared without using artificial colourings. What he neglected to mention was that the spicing and the execution of the dishes we were about to consume would be peerless, all the more so for such a reasonably priced meal (curries range from £8-12). We started our evening with some poppadoms and selection of relishes and chutneys – the presence of which

might be ubiquitous in any British curry house, yet the level of quality we experienced is not. From the first crispy-crunch of the poppadum it was clear that Bombay Dine is a step apart from its regional brethren. The mango chutney was delightfully chunky, with toasted mustard seeds running through. ‘It’s in the little touches’ announced my companion – a phrase that quickly became the mantra for our evening. From the seasonal menu, I chose the saduko kukhura to start – marinated slices of barbequed chicken with mustard oil and roasted fenugreek seeds. These seeds added textured explosions of its unique, slightly bitter flavour to really make an exceptional dish. Meanwhile, my companion’s spiced lamb chops, cooked to perfection, were equally mouthwatering. For main, we ordered delicately spiced slices of barbequed lamb fillet from the seasonal menu, and the lamb rogan josh, which was superbly tender – so much so in fact that even if butter wouldn’t melt in your mouth, I am still convinced that this lamb would. Bombay Dine labels itself as ‘Fine Indian Cuisine’ and they are not wrong – the food here is truly exceptional. In fact, it’s so good that I’m even willing to brave those pipes again for it...

LOOK Brightly coloured velvet sofas, wicker hanging chairs, geometric tiles and neon signs make this whacky bar a feast for the eyes.

VIBE The nineties made manifest, The Toy Shop channels all the best bits of your youth to create a quirky nostalgia-filled nightspot.

FOOD Big sharing platters are the order of the day (including an exceptional veggie ‘Earth Star’ one). Otherwise, pick something from the Earth and Turf menu – we love the Lobster and Crab burger filled with avocado and chilli smoked garlic.

DRINK Here it’s all about the cocktails. Inspired by those classic childhood toys, each drink comes with a dose of nostalgia – think a vintage Cherrycello served with alcoholic ice cubes shaped as Lego men. Order the sweet and creamy Play-doh Milk Punch made with chocolate bon bon rum, sweet liquid of rose, pine needle Kamm & Sons, almond extract and liquorice rock. Yum.

VERDICT Perfect for a night with friends. Order a smoking sharer cocktail, grab an elongated straw and take a trip down memory lane…

FIND IT The Toy Shop, 32 Putney High Street, SW15, 020 8704 1188; thetoyshopbar.com

Bombay Dine, 133 Lavender Hill, SW11, 020 7228 9628; bombaydine.co.uk

RESTAURANT REVIEW_Dec.indd 85

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THE BOMBAY DINE CLUB FINE INDIAN CUISINE

with its team of award winning chefs bring you an authentic dining experience.

FREE HOME DELIVERY within a 3 mile radius for orders over £10 Every order includes complimentary papadoms and chutney open 7 days a week 5pm -11pm 10% Discount on takeaway or collection order over £15

now We are s hristma taking C ase book s, ple booking re a table c e to s u

020 7228 9628

www.bombaydine.co.uk Order Online

FREE

B OT T L E OF HOUSE W I N E*

133 Lavender Hill, Battersea, SW11 5QJ *For order over £35 receive a free bottle of house wine. T&C’s apply; This offer is not valid with other offers.

OTHER ASSOCIATE BRANCHES

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Panas Gurkha Restaurant318 Lee High road, Blackheath London, SE13 5pj, 020 8852 9891www.thepanas.co.uk

Panas Gurkhas Kitchen350 Baring road Grove Park London, SE12 0DU, 020 8851 6728www.panasgurkhaskitchen.co.uk

10/10/2013 17:59

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TOP TIPPLES HAVE YOURSELF A MERRY LITTLE CHRISTMAS WITH THESE RECIPES FOR THE VERY BEST FESTIVE COCKTAILS BY BUNGA BUNGA’S CHARLIE GILKES

ith five London venues now, December is the busiest month for us here at Inception Group. To celebrate the Christmas party

season, we’ve specially created some very different and equally delicious cocktails, starting off with an ‘Inverno a Napoli’ – the signature festive cocktail at our Battersea venue, Bunga Bunga…

What? DODGED A BULLET Where? MR FOGG’S, 15 Bruton Lane, W1J; mr-foggs.com

Why? Deliciously old-fashion,

this cocktail is a spiffing mix of festive fruit and spice. How? 50ml Bulleit Bourbon 25ml Berry’s red port 20ml mulled wine spiced syrup 15ml lemon juice 30ml blackberry purée Dash of egg white Shake and pour into a Victorian cobbler glass with a big block of ice. Garnish with a bunch of spring mint and cinnamon stick.

•

• •

•

What? MAGIC SNOWBALL Where? DISCO, 13 Kingly Court, W1B; disco-london.com

Why? Danger, danger! Made with

What? INVERNO A NAPOLI Where? BUNGA BUNGA,

37 Battersea Bridge Road, SW11; bungabunga-london.com Why? Wonderfully warming, this Italian-inspired concoction tastes like winter in a glass. How? • 40ml Martini Bianco

infused with orange zest and cloves • 30ml Chateau de Breuil Calvados • 60ml Apple Juice • 2 drops of chocolate bitters • Mix heat and then serve warm in a Brandy glass • Garnish with caramelized apple and a stick of cinnamon.

rum, Cointreau and Angostura, this cocktail really is high voltage. How? 40ml Mount Gay XO Rum 15ml Cointreau 15ml Velvet Falernum 25ml Fresh lime juice 2 dashes of Angostura bitters. Shake and serve in a Magic 8 ball glass, before garnishing with powdered sugar for a snowy effect.

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TOP TIPPLES

What? REDISCOVERED CHRISTMAS

Where? BARTS, Chelsea Cloisters, 87 Sloane Ave, SW3; barts-london.com Why? Prohibition with a festive twist, this New World-inspired cocktail is sophisticatedly sweet.

How? 50ml Zacapa Centenario XO Rum 5ml Vanilla syrup Pinch of ground cinnamon Chocolate bitters 15ml Grand Marnier Mix the ingredients together, then shake and strain into a cold martini glass At Barts, for added effect, we serve it on a small pan with a macadamia and chocolate fondant, and present it with a small gift box.

• •

•

What? WHAM-LAST CHRISTMAS! Where? MAGGIE’S, 329 Fulham Road, SW10; maggies-club.com Why? Perfect for those looking for a little nostalgia, this is an eighties Christmas in a glass… How? 30ml Pampero Aniversario rum • 20ml Goldschlager cinnamon schnapps • A pinch of cinnamon • 1 wedge orange muddled • Drop of Agave syrup • 40ml fresh orange juice • Shake the rum, schnapps, orange juice and syrup together and pour • Top off with a sprinkling off cinnamon and an orange wedge • In true Maggie’s spirit, we recommend serving in an eighties Wham! mug. What? BOMBAY SAPPHIRE VANILLA & BLACKBERRY G&T TWIST Why? One for traditionalists, this cocktail is a tasty twist on the classic G&T How? 50ml Bombay Sapphire infused with a freshly slit vanilla pod • 75ml Fever-Tree tonic water • 25ml Fever-Tree ginger ale • 1 blackberry • 2 lime wheels (gently squeezed) • 3 blackberries • Large sprig of basil leaves • Squash a blackberry in the bottom of a chilled balloon glass and then add the vanilla-infused Bombay Sapphire. Stir to mix • Fill 4/5ths of the glass full of good quality cubed ice and stir again • Top with 75ml Fever-Tree tonic water and 25ml ginger ale then stir gently for a final time • Garnish with a couple of lime wheels, 3 blackberries and a large sprig of basil. 88

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FOOD & TRAVEL THE BEDROOM

Bold patterned contemporary fabrics complement traditionally styled furnishings in each of the individually designed, spacious and supremely comfortable rooms. Romantics will appreciate a four poster bed whilst garden lovers will linger on private balconies overlooking the four acres of mature grounds. For families and parties, a number of newly refurbished suites featuring exceptional interiors designed by owner Christina Brownsword are available in an adjacent mansion. Four legged friends are also welcome in dogfriendly rooms.

ere Beau Nash, Georgian Bath’s influential arbiter of taste, to check into the Bath Priory today, he would undoubtedly nod in approval. Sophisticated, elegant and exuding period charm, the Bath Priory hotel exemplifies all that Bath has to offer. Situated a short walk from Royal Victoria Park, Royal Crescent and the city centre’s cornucopia of attractions, this handsome mansion was originally built in 1835 on land once owned by The Priory of Bath Abbey. Behind the honey-coloured stone façade, the cosseting comfort distinguishing the library, drawing room and dining rooms is enhanced by curios, bibelots and a gallery of paintings depicting racy Edwardians, moustachioed majors and smokyeyed beauties. Tucked away in the award-winning landscaped gardens is an outdoor swimming pool, croquet lawn and a walled kitchen garden providing fresh produce for the restaurant.

BATH PRIORY

RESTAURANT

Recently awarded his own Michelin star, Bath Priory’s chef Sam Moody comes with pedigree. Having previously worked in the Michelin-starred kitchens of Ockenden Manor Hotel and The Bath Priory’s sister hotel Gidleigh Park, Sam’s genius lies in creating an artistic, imaginative gourmet experience guaranteed to titillate the senses. Featuring such phenomena as Sparassis, the cauliflower mushroom served with hand dived scallops, and wild venison teamed with picked pear and fat raisins infused in jasmine tea, Moody’s menu is complemented by a fine wine list, a knowledgeable sommelier and impeccably trained staff.

THE SPA

Relax beside the aqua marine pool, unwind in the steam pod or work out overlooking the stunning gardens. Here spa ceremonies are the order of the day – we recommend The Awakening which includes a herbal foot bath, body wash, Kodo massage, a facial featuring Antipodean plant oils and a Quandong hair mask. Fit for a Roman deity.

£ T H E DA M AG E

Bed and breakfast rates start from £210 based on double occupancy and include Full English or Continental breakfast, newspaper, on site car parking and use of the Garden Spa facilities. 01225 331922; thebathpriory.co.uk

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PAINSWICK COURT Gloucestershire

THE ACTIVITIES loucestershire is renowned for the very smartest part of the G being Cotswolds, so it’s no surprise to find

THE HOUSE nce the court house for the local Painswick Court has a O area, wonderfully rich history. Take a

the surrounding area littered with polo clubs, making it a perfect destination for horselovers. To get involved, head to Edgeworth Polo Club for a relaxed lesson in the clubs gorgeous grounds or try Barton Stables for a peaceful hack through the beautiful Cotswolds countryside.

nightcap in the oak-pannelled Court Room, with its magnificent fireplace and hidden door up to the games room, or stay in the bedroom where King Charles I was once a guest during the Siege of Gloucester in 1643 – his ghost is still believed to haunt the area. Mother and son hosts Linda and Peter Lloyd provide a warm welcome to their beautiful Cotswolds country house home, complete with lavenderlined entrance and rustic wooden doors. Yet the house is just as stunning on the inside as it is on the outside, with its neutral contemporary interiors complementing the original period features. Look out the window and you’ll find views across the rolling countryside as well as the formal garden. A relaxing natural haven, the garden is another great entertaining space, complete with dining area, hot tub and private cinema room – perfect for hosting a party. We recommend hiring local chef James ‘Bob’ Parkinson, the man behind Made by Bob in Cirencester, whose bespoke catering really is exquisite.

THE AREA nown as ‘The Queen of the Painswick is everything K Cotswolds’, you’d expect from a quaint Gloucestershire village – pretty, picturesque stone cottages, a beautiful church dating back to the 14th century and a cosy traditional pub, The Falcon, serving seasonal, quintessentially British food.

£ T H E DA M AG E

One week exclusive rental of Painswick Court costs from £13,000 (£925 per person) based on 14 guests sharing. Short stays start from £3,125 (£220 per person) per night based on 14 guests sharing. Minimum stay of 2 nights. Abercrombie & Kent

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K I C K S

TEENAGERS ARE TRICKY CUSTOMERS, BUT THE SWISS RESORT OF LAAX MIGHT JUST BE THE ANSWER SAYS GEORGIE LANE-GODFREY

s I carefully pick my way down the sheer face of a monstrous mountain masquerading as a black run, a blur of neon whooshes past me. What appears to be a medieval jester on skis is in hot pursuit. Apparently it’s not vertigo-induced lunacy but just another morning on the slopes of Laax, the very coolest of the ski resorts in Graubünden, Switzerland. Having recently undergone a reinvention to become the freestyle capital of Europe, Laax is now packed with neon-clad, powder-junkie, youthful energy. You probably won’t have heard of it. The region of Flims–Laax is still relatively unknown, despite its reputation for being one of the most snow sure destinations in the Alps. At just 1hour 40minutes from Zurich, it’s close enough to make child-laden transfers bearable, yet slopes are surprisingly uncrowded. Plus with an almost perfect split between the levels of difficulty of the pistes, it’s a practical choice for families with varying levels of ability amongst them. When we visited in January, conditions were perfect and the slopes were all but deserted – a skier’s dream. But then, it’s not just the weather here that’s appealing; Laax boasts the largest halfpipe in Europe and enough snowparks to occupy avid snowboarders and skiers for days, so much so that the annual Burton European Open snowboarding championship is held here. We travelled with Putney-based luxury holiday company Powder Byrne, who seem to have nailed the art of making family ski holidays enjoyable for all involved. Focussing on the idea of ‘bespoke experiences’, they’re very good at taking the stress out of skiing: personal travel consultants, private transfers (and flights, should you wish it) and a complimentary ski guiding service for the duration of your stay too. This service is not just for the grown-ups; the Freezone Ski Guiding is specifically for teens who want to ski with friends but still need, ahem, adult supervision. These guides will take

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FOOD & TRAVEL you down the best runs for the conditions, avoid those annoying bottlenecks and secure the best tables for lunch. They also happen to mainly be made up of rather handsome men in their early twenties, which is guaranteed to put a smile on your teenage daughter’s face… Meanwhile, PB’s Yeti Club can keep pesky younger siblings entertained. Divided up into different programmes depending on age group, the club organises skiing during the day and activities in the evenings – from painting and sing-alongs for tots to bowling and ice-skating for tweens – so that parents can ski in peace. Alongside these programmes run more advanced ski instruction such as the Freestyle Course, which teaches how to ride the half pipe, parks and rails, and develops technique for the snow park and freeskiing. Perfect for daredevil teens, classes take place both out on the slopes and in the Freestyle Academy at Laax Base Station. Rather impressively, The Academy is Europe’s first indoor freestyle hall, and is filled with trampolines and squidgy foam pits to let pupils practise big air tricks in safety before hitting the dedicated Fun Park on Crap Sogn Gion. Crap, incidentally, means rock in Romansh, one of the four national languages of Switzerland, and the local ‘Crap Bar’ in Laax will solicit a snigger out of even the most moody of teens. Further adding to Laax’s cool credentials is the resident Porsche chair lift. A sleek black beauty and world first, it swivels to take you up the

mountainside to Crap Masegn at a civilised 45 degree angle, allowing you to enjoy views of the Alps rather than the woman in far too tight salopettes in front of you. It also boasts solar-powered heating, making it one of the few ‘green’ ski lifts in the world, (alongside one powered by cow dung in Vermont, naturally). In fact, the whole resort shares the same sleek, design-led feel as the chair lift, from the award-winning rockresort accommodation to the loos at the Rock Bar on Crap Sogn Gion, where the one-way glass lets you relieve yourself whilst admiring the Alps and skiers walking past (without them being able to see you). Whilst teens might love Laax, parents with more classical tastes will feel at home in adjoining Flims. Sat at the end of a sweeping tree-lined drive, the Waldhaus Flims Mountain Resort & Spa sits on its own private estate bordering the village. Built at the turn of the 19th century, the hotel still maintains much of the grandeur of the era as is brimming with character. It’s an eccentric kind of place – there’s a dedicated

hotel museum – and although some of the décor might be a little dated, it’s all part of the Waldhaus charm. The real draw though is the spa. With six saunas, a floating suite, a huge gym, an indoor swimming pool and an enormous range of beauty treatments, it’s a real beast of a place – which is just as well since the heated

something out of the 80s, filled with battered T-bar lifts and Germans in dodgy multicoloured onesies, yet if you look past this you’ll find a relatively undiscovered gem which is set to be Switzerland’s hot new ski destination. This is thanks to a new ski lift that is set to open in 2014 linking Lenzerheide to its slicker neighbour, Arosa. Filled with wide, cruisey runs and fantastic hotels – the stunning Tshuggen Grand Hotel with its Michelin-starred restaurant and world-class spa being a prime example – it’s no wonder that Arosa got the royal seal of approval (Prince William was spotted skiing there earlier this year). Of course, that’s all great to know, but you’ll most likely have a hard time dragging your teens away from Laax for the day. Or home for that matter. Good luck with that.

outdoor massage pool’s views across the mountains really draw in the visitors. Lazing amongst the bubbles as the steam blurs the alpine scenery, it really is the most fantastic way to soothe sore muscles after a long day of skiing. But if your muscles aren’t sore and the 220km of skiable terrain isn’t enough for you, it’s only just over an hour’s drive to Lenzerheide, a lesserknown resort popular with those looking for something off the beaten British-tourist track. Lenzerheide feels like

SWISS offers up to 19 daily flights to Zurich. Fares start from £122 return, including all airport taxes. (T&Cs apply.) For reservations call 0845 601 0956 or visit swiss.com Prices from £2,787 per adult for 7 nights from 15th February 2014 or £2,562 per adult for 7 nights from 29th March 2014 for a Comfort Twin room at Waldhaus Flims Mountain Resort & Spa on a B&B basis. Prices includes flights, return private transfers and full Powder Byrne service; powderbyrne.com

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Wimbledon Park Golf Club Your ideal venue for any occasion

Wimbledon Park Golf Club is in an idyllic location overlooking Wimbledon Park Lake with beautiful views across the golf course and to the All England Lawn Tennis Club. Conveniently close to Wimbledon town centre and the village and less than ten miles from Central London, the Club is an ideal venue for your party or special event. • Superb Ground Floor Terrace Lounge • Fully Equipped Dining Room • Lakeview Restaurant • 5 minute walk from Wimbledon Park District Line Tube For information on prices and availability or to discuss what we can do to make your event a memorable occasion, please call the bookings office on 020 8946 1250 Wimbledon Park Golf Club | Home Park Road, Wimbledon Park SW19 7HR | 020 8946 1250

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10/10/2013 15:15

SAVVY STYLE Absolutely talks to Lena Jones of Lena Jones Design about why hiring an interior designer can save you both time and money

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ABSOLUTELY PROMOTION

t’s something to think about if you haven’t already done so. Hiring an interior designer is a smart decision if you’ve invested a good bit of money into your home and want to be able to showcase it to look its best. In today’s busy world where we are so often time poor, the sanctuary of a beautiful, relaxing and practical home environment becomes essential. In order to conceive your dream home without the added stress, why not secure the services of a professional who can help you plan and implement your perfect bespoke interior? It might sound strange that hiring someone to decorate your home would save you money since you have the additional fee of the designer, however Lena Jones makes a good argument for it: ‘Hiring a designer can help you to avoid costly mistakes that will not only help you save money but can increase the value of your home.’ ‘We can undertake a make over of one room to an entire house, carefully planning your chosen design with builders, decorators and suppliers to achieve cost effective, professional and beautiful schemes for your home.’

‘PUT ASIDE THE IDEA THAT INTERIOR DESIGNERS ARE ONLY FOR THE RICH AND FAMOUS – THEY CAN SAVE YOU A GREAT DEAL OF TIME AND MONEY,’

So how exactly does Lena come up with these schemes? ‘I encourage my clients to look through books and magazines and collect images that inspire them. Keeping them in a folder along with fabrics and colour samples is a great starting point and gives me a real sense of your taste and what you hope to achieve.’ In this way, Lena Jones Design will be able to build a stronger bridge between you and your architect or contractor early on and can head off design misses in your overall plan. This is crucial in managing time and money, since designers are trained to think about things we may overlook. ‘It’s so important that the lighting and furnishing needs are addressed before construction,’ continues Lena. ‘If your living room sofa is floating in a the middle of the room, you want to make sure you have the proper placement for floor outlets.’ Whether you have no idea where or how to begin to decorate your home or you simply haven’t the time to execute your style and desires due to your busy schedule, Lena Jones can help create your dream home. Lena Jones Designs 01372 843888 www.lenajonesdesigns.com

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SLOPE STARS

YEARNING FOR GLÜHWEIN AND GONDOLAS? ABSOLUTELY HEADS TO THE SWISS ALPS TO FIND THE HOTTEST HOTELS TO YODEL ABOUT THIS SEASON

SPOTLIGHT ON...

VERBIER

n Verbier, everything is haute couture and high velocity, so it’s no surprise that a brand new W Hotel (whotels.com) is opening there this December. The new W is a not only a big deal for Verbier, it’s also a big deal for W hotels – this is the brand’s first foray into the world of ski resorts. Featuring a ski-in, ski-out piazza and sunken spa, it has a great location right next to the Médran gondola, so you can be out of bed and on the slopes within minutes. What’s more, the hotel’s main restaurant will be a collaboration with twoMichelin-star Spanish chef Sergi Arola, who is world-renowned for his inventive take on Spanish cuisine. Meanwhile, for something

more sedate, Cordée des Alpes (hotelcordee.com) is a chic retreat at the other end of town. With 34 soft-lit suites brimming with cashmere throws and designer fire places, there’s no smarter place to hang your fur boots. Did we mention it’s one of Prince Harry’s favourite haunts? Or if you don’t mind a minicommute to the pistes, five miles from Verbier in the hilltop village of Commeire lies The Montagne Alternative (montagne-alternative. com), a collection of barns so beautifully restored, you’d never know they were a hotel. Haybarn exteriors speak of a bygone era while slick interiors combine retro styling with floor-to-ceiling glass. The choices of faboulous digs are seemingly endless, but for real

News Just in… December will see the main Verbier ski area linked to Bruson by a new gondola running from Le Châble to Les Mayens de Bruson. With 44km of treelined pistes, the Bruson ski area is a great place to escape the crowds and try some 007 style skiing between tree trunks.

powder splendor, the Cabane du Mont Fort (cabanemontfort.ch) is a brilliant if adventurous choice. Clinging to the mountain at 2,457 metres above Verbier, it offers yodels of traditional Swiss charm at youth hostel prices. Access to the lodge is via a red run so you’ll need to ditch your suitcase and don a backpack for the duration of your stay, but waking up above the clouds and being the first to lay tracks more than makes up for it.

SWISS (swiss.com) flies to Geneva with onward train to Le Châble. Six-day lift passes start from £237. Ski hire starts at £91.50 for six days from Fellay Mode et Sport. For more information on Verbier, visit verbier.ch.

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ABSOLU TELY

FOOD & TRAVEL

SPOTLIGHT ON...

GSTAAD

legant palace hotels abound in Gstaad and the town has long been synonymous with belle époque glamour and escapism. Now with the arrival of an ultra-stylish new hotel, Le Grand Bellevue, Gstaad’s promenade is taking slopeside chic to a whole new level. Under its new owners, visionary couple Daniel and Davia Koetser, the communal areas of the hotel have a distinct rock ‘n’ roll elegance that bring Soho House’s international offerings to mind. ‘My wife and I have a great affi nity with Gstaad,’ Daniel tells Absolutely. ‘We love it for its traditions and age-old institutions but feel there’s room for a dash of sassiness.’ Davia’s exquisite taste helps. A professional interior designer by trade, she had much of the furniture custommade, including side-tables fashioned from antique Alpine walking sticks and a 17-metre Chesterfield sofa. Leonard’s, the main restaurant on the ground floor, serves bistro-style cuisine – think Braised Knuckle of Veal Saffron Risotto, Bouillabaisse Marsellaise, Baba Limoncello and Basil Sorbet – or for a

Perfect products for on the Piste

more intimate experience, Le Petit Chalet nestled in the hotel’s grounds seats just 18. In the main house, there’s also a trendy Art Deco bar, cigar lounge, private cinema and a sublime 2,500sqm spa. All in all, it’s pretty special. Remember, you heard it here first.

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Le Grand Bellevue opens on 13th December. Rooms start from 620 euros per night; bellevue-gstaad.com

CRÈME DE LA MER SUPREME CREAM, £200 for 60ml;

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£17.99 for 50ml; feelunique.co.uk

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FOOD & TRAVEL

SPOTLIGHT ON...

ST MORITZ

t Moritz is an old favourite with the international upper class, and the newly refurbished Carlton Hotel is set to be this season’s haunt of choice. Now celebrating its centenary, the hotel was originally planned as a summer residence for Nicholas II, the last tsar of Russia, and still retains a decadent feel, albeit with a modern twist. Having been blitzed and bedazzled by the talented hand of Swiss interior designer Carlo Rampazzi, the hotel is characterised by playful creativity and colour, while key original features like the grand staircase remain. Each of the 60 lavishly decorated suites are south facing and overlook the famed lake, offering a prime position for the array of eclectic activities St

Moritz offers, such as greyhound racing, polo, ‘ice golf’ and cricket. An around the clock chauffeur service delivers you directly to the ski lifts in just 3 minutes and upon your return, a sumptuous selection of sensational teas and a first class spa await. If you have any remaining energy, the spa’s gym and pool will ensure your fitness levels reach their peak, but for the more sedate there’s also fantastic facials, massages and professional make-up sessions – perfect just before dinner. And when dinner is at Da Vittorio, the restaurant by three Michelin star chefs Enrico and Roberto Cerea, you’ll want to look your best. Here you can expect a veritable Italian feast, but the elegant Romanoff restaurant on the historic Bel Étage also serves equally delicious classic fine dining.

Carlton Hotel, St Moritz available from 800 Swiss Francs (approx. £555) per night on a half board basis, including butler service, minibar, access to the spa. Ski passes available for 25 Swiss Francs (approx. £17) per day when staying for two nights or more. For booking and further information please visit carlton-stmoritz.ch

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30/10/2013 24/09/2013 10:36 10:01

DECEMBER 2013

ABSOLUTELY

PROPERTY

NANSEN ROAD, SW11 A substantial, beautifully appointed end of terrace five bedroom Victorian house, located in one of Clapham Common Northside’s most desirable residential roads. This impressive property is presented to exacting standards throughout and benefits from a wonderful blend of contemporary living whilst retaining many original period features and charm. THE WHOLE WINKWORTH NETWORK, NOW IN YOUR POCKET

£1,295,000 Freehold Scan this code to download the Winkworth iPhone app

020 8994 7096 | chiswick@winkworth.co.uk

winkworth.co.uk/chiswick

Winkworth, Battersea 020 7228 9265  winkworth.co.uk/battersea

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MAGDALEN ROAD, SW18 A well presented family house benefiting from lovely proportions throughout, a double reception, a superb kitchen and a well proportioned private garden. Approx. 2,207 sq ft. Energy Rating: E. 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 3 reception rooms, study, 2 cloakrooms, garden. Freehold Guide Price ÂŁ1,500,000

EARLSFIELD ROAD, SW18 A sensational family house presented to the highest standards having been completely stripped back and rebuilt. Approx. 2,454 sq ft. Energy Rating: E. Master suite, 3 further double bedrooms, bathroom, double reception, cellar/utility room, garden. Freehold Guide Price ÂŁ1,450,000

WANDSWORTH 020 8871 3033 wandsworth@johndwood.co.uk

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johndwood.co.uk

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Abso

6 bedrooms, 2 bath/shower rooms, double reception room, dining room, study, utility room, conservatory, basement, garden.

R GEN E FO

IONS AT R

A wonderful double fronted and extremely well appointed 3 storey Victorian family home situated on an attractive residential street, offering exceptional living/entertaining space and a south facing garden. Approx. 2,346 sq ft. Energy Rating: E.

TRUSTE

SUMBURGH ROAD, SW12

141 Years of Property

72 - 2013

Freehold Guide Price ÂŁ3,150,000

CLAPHAM 020 8673 2854 clapham@johndwood.co.uk

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WATERFRONT HOUSE, SW11 This well presented flat has wonderful river views and a great balance of living and entertaining space. Approx. 1,430 sq ft. Energy Rating: D. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, reception room. Leasehold Guide Price £1,250,000

OLD CHESTERTON BUILDING, SW11 A beautifully presented loft-style apartment set over two floors within a Victorian school conversion close to Battersea Park. Approx. 950 sq ft. Energy Rating: E. Bedroom, bathroom, reception room. Leasehold Guide Price £750,000

ST MARY LE PARK COURT, SW11 A delightful and extremely well proportioned flat on the 2nd floor of a purpose-built block with sweeping views over Battersea Park. Approx. 626 sq ft. Energy Rating: C. 2 bedrooms, bathroom, reception room. Freehold Share Guide Price £550,000

BATTERSEA 020 7293 0348 battersea@johndwood.co.uk

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LEBANON GARDENS, SW18 A striking family house presented in excellent decorative order throughout, located on this highly prized residential road. Approx. 2,110 sq ft. Energy Rating: D. Master suite, 4 further bedrooms, further bathroom, shower room, double reception, cellar, gardens. Freehold

Guide Price £1,350,000

3 bedrooms, bathroom, shower room, reception room, dining room, breakfast room, garden. Freehold Guide Price £925,000

SOUTHFIELDS 020 8870 8811 southfields@johndwood.co.uk

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R GEN E FO

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An Edwardian house located on the pri ed outh elds rid offering period charm and character with the bene ts of modern day living. Approx. 1,332 sq ft. Energy Rating: D.

TRUSTE

ENGADINE STREET, SW18

141 Years of Property

72 - 2013

johndwood.co.uk

06/11/2013 05/11/2013 12:00 17:01

Ballingdon Road £1,750,000 Freehold

This attractive five bedroom Victorian house is positioned on one of the most sought after residential streets between the commons. The property has been extended on the ground floor into the side return, on the top floor into the loft space and is immaculately presented throughout.

• Five double bedrooms • Reception room • Kitchen • Family room • Ground floor w/c • Family bath/shower room • En suite bath/ shower room • En suite bathroom • Garden • Cellar

Bellville Road £1,550,000 Freehold This superb Victorian family home is ideally positioned on Belleville Road between the commons and beautifully presented throughout. The accommodation has been extended into the loft space on the top floor, the front side return and to the rear of the original building on the ground floor, there is also still potential for further development into the kitchen side return.

• Five bedrooms • Double reception room • Kitchen/ breakfast room • Ground floor w/c • Family bathroom • En suite shower room • En suite bathroom • South-west facing Garden • Cellar

131 Nor thcote Road London SW11 6PS T:020 7228 5111 batterseasales@ramptonbaseley.com www.ramptonbaseley.com

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Eland Road £1,399,999 Freehold

Positioned on this particularly sought after residential street is this stunning four storey Victorian town house. The houses on this section of Eland Road are rare to come to the market and are highly regarded for their two levels of living space and excellent West-facing gardens.

• Three/four bedrooms • Double reception room • Kitchen/family room • Play room • Utility room • Study • Ground floor w/c • Family bathroom • En suite bathroom • Balcony • 59’7’’ West-facing garden • Cellar storage

Salcott Road £1,375,000 Freehold This superb four bedroom family house is ideally located on this extremely popular residential street. The house has been extended on the ground floor into the side return and on the top floor into the two loft spaces.

• Four double bedrooms • Double reception room • Kitchen/breakfast room • Ground floor w/c • Family bathroom • Shower room • Balcony • South facing garden • Cellar

131 Nor thcote Road London SW11 6PS T:020 7228 5111 batterseasales@ramptonbaseley.com www.ramptonbaseley.com

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Wakehurst Road £1,250,000 Freehold

This beautiful four bedroom mid terraced house is presented in excellent decorative order with a good sense of light and space throughout. The property measures approximately 20’ in width which is particularly wide in comparison to most of the Victorian houses on surrounding streets.

• Four bedrooms • Double reception room • Kitchen/breakfast room • Family bathroom • Family bath/shower room • Second floor utility/storage room • South facing patio garden • Cellar

Henderson Road £1,050,000 Freehold An exceptionally rare find in the Toast Rack. This superb garden flat occupies the entire ground floor of this grand house measuring in excess of 1250 sq ft. This stunning property has a tremendous sense of light and space, with excellent proportions in all of the principal rooms.

• Three bedrooms • Semi open-plan reception/kitchen • Family bathroom • En suite shower room • South-East facing garden • Off street parking • Under floor heating

131 Nor thcote Road London SW11 6PS T:020 7228 5111 batterseasales@ramptonbaseley.com www.ramptonbaseley.com

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Cloudesdale Road £950,000 Freehold

This charming double fronted house is positioned on this sought after street in a popular residential area. The house boasts masses of period features and the double fronted nature makes a pleasant change from the more typical front to back Victorian layout.

• Four double bedrooms • Two reception rooms • Kitchen/dining room • Ground floor w/c • Family bathroom • Second bathroom • West facing garden • Cellar

Bennerley Road £650,000 Freehold This beautiful two bedroom flat is arranged over the first floor of a double fronted Victorian house. The flat is light and airy and offers excellent lateral living space with the majority of the square footage used in the principal rooms instead of being wasted in hallways and corridors.

• Two double bedrooms • Reception room • Kitchen/breakfast room • Bathroom

131 Nor thcote Road London SW11 6PS T:020 7228 5111 batterseasales@ramptonbaseley.com www.ramptonbaseley.com

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Dulka Road £850 per week

This beautifully finished Victorian house is presented in excellent decorative order with a light and tasteful theme. The double reception room is semi-open plan which makes the room feel particularly spacious. To the rear of the ground floor there is a superb kitchen/breakfast room.

• Four double bedrooms • Double reception room • Kitchen/breakfast room • Ground floor w/c • Family bathroom • En suite shower room • Patio garden • Cellar • Unfurnished

Chatto Road £825 per week An attractive end of terrace Victorian family home, located moments from Northcote Road between the commons. There is a double reception room and a spacious kitchen/breakfast room to the rear. The kitchen has been extended into the side return and double doors lead out to a pretty South-West facing patio garden.

• Four double bedrooms • Double reception room • Kitchen/breakfast room • Family bathroom • En suite bath/shower room • South-west facing garden and roof terrace • Cellar

131 Nor thcote Road London SW11 6PS T:020 7228 5111 batterseasales@ramptonbaseley.com www.ramptonbaseley.com

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£800 per week Thornton Place

Leathwaite Road

• Double Reception Room • Kitchen/Breakfast Room • Master Bedroom with en-suite bathroom • Three further bedrooms • Family bathroom • West-facing gardenr • Unfurnished

• Two double bedrooms • Open-plan kitchen/breakfast room • En-suite bathroom • Bathroom • Fifth floor with lift • Roof terrace • Unfurnished

£575 per week Nightingale Lane

Webbs Road

• Three double bedrooms • En suite shower room Family bathroom • Open plan kitchen reception room • South West facing roof terrace • Furnished

£580 per week

£395 per week

Double bedroom • Reception room • Bathroom Kitchen • Furnished • Available early December

131 Nor thcote Road London SW11 6PS T:020 7228 5111 batterseasales@ramptonbaseley.com www.ramptonbaseley.com

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ABSOLUTELY Property

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IN THEIR OWN

WORDS THOMAS CRABTREE

Area Director - South London, Marsh & Parsons Photography: Rebecca Noonan Born in the hospital where The Latitude building now stands in Clapham South, I spent my early years living ‘between the commons’. After a few years venturing further afield than SW London, for university and travels to the Far East and Africa, I returned to my home patch in 2004. I started my property career and relished the opportunity to create my own success in the area I had affectionately grown up in. Nearly a decade later, I’m still here selling property in Clapham, which has increasingly become one of London’s most popular parts of town. It’s been incredible to watch how much the area, and indeed the price of property, has changed in that time! Rather than being the nondescript place associated with ‘the man on the Clapham omnibus’, the area has now become a vibrant and highly desirable place to live. Our Clapham office currently has 21 buyers registered for every available property, and this demand has played a huge part in pushing property prices upwards. Unlike more central parts of London, where foreign investment has dominated the buying demographic, Battersea, Balham and Clapham are overwhelmingly popular amongst UK buyers, who account for 85% of all purchases. Demand from city workers, who are very often ‘newly weds’ that are looking for a suitable area to bring up a family, are at an all time high, particularly the area known as ‘between the commons’, which has acquired its prestigious ‘Nappy Valley’ status. Equally, the traditional

migration of families moving out of town to the home counties is diminishing due to increased commuter costs and the vibrant economy in the capital. Inevitably, in recent years, the increased desire for properties from these young, professional families has pushed property prices through the roof. The first property I sold in 2004 was a four-bedroom house on Belmont Road for £760,000, which is now worth a staggering £1.5 million. This illustrates perfectly how many homeowners in the area have become ‘accidental’ property millionaires, benefiting from property price increases of roughly 10% year-on-year since 2004 – even through the recession years. With offices straddling north and south of the river, our network of offices surrounding the common have managed to pull many buyers (usually registered with our Chelsea or two Fulham offices) across the river, due to the more reasonable price per square foot. These buyers are often more comfortable with the higher price tags, which is also contributing to the increasing property values. So, looking back over the past decade of working as an agent in Clapham, I have confidence that the next decade will be equally as prosperous. More home owners in the area will become ‘accidental’ millionaires, maybe even multi-millionaires! 020 7501 3666; marshandparsons.co.uk

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ABSOLUTELY Property

Absolutely SW2 Favourite restaurant

Curry Ono, an authentic Japanese Restaurant. Their description: ‘all natural, all healthy, home made’, is fully justified - the Udon Noodle soup with Tempura Vegetables is amazing.

Adrian Burch Branch Manager haart, Brixton

� 020 7274 2878; haart.co.uk

Stylish boutique

20 Storey has a wide range of great gift ideas and is located in Market Row - everything from ‘I love Brixton’ coasters to trendy winter clothes can be found with a myriad of gift type goodies.

Best kept secret

A lost hour

Finest cocktail

An exceptional property

Brixton Village Market has become Brixton’s culinary and cultural hub. On Thursday and Friday nights the market is open late, there is live music and a warm community atmosphere.

Tropical Runner, a mixture of bananas & strawberries, coconut and fresh cream, pineapple juice & ice at the lovely Satay Bar- an eclectic blend of cool eating and Cocktail bar.

House Hunting Alex Oppenheim Sales Manager at John D Wood & Co., Battersea � 020 7228 0174; johndwood.co.uk

Property I’d most like on my books is… Other than the predictable and obvious, such as Buckingham Palace and 10 Downing Street, I would really like to market and sell the Battersea Heliport, perhaps we could work into our fee structure a number of free flights!

I never thought I’d see… I once showed a flat to an American gentleman, upon leaving the property he told me that he would like to offer the Guide Price which was £600,000. He handed me his Black American Express Credit Card and asked me “put it on this.” I placed a quick telephone call to the Vendor’s solicitor who at first roared with laughter and then calmed down and said it was not possible. I then suggested to the Buyer that wiring the funds might be better, which caused him irritation more out of the loss of air miles than the inconvenience. As a fellow American once said in a Deep South accent, “these are high class problems!”

On parking in Brockwell Gate, a stylish new build complex, I stumbled into Brockwell Park itself. Accessed from a private gateway from inside the complex is 125 acres of beautiful open space.

Brixton Hill, SW2. A two bedroom period conversion flat with access to a balcony, which is set back off Brixton Hill. Only a ten minute walk to Victoria Line Tube. £369,950 Leasehold.

Most Satisfying Transaction… I received a telephone call from a lady who was enquiring as to one of our properties. Naturally, I was extremely courteous and set out the many positives of the flat. As I was in mid flow, she shouted down the phone at me “will you $%&# off”! She then apologised and told me that she suffered from Tourette’s, we continued our conversation and she ended up buying the flat which I sold for her some years later, I have advised her children as well. Most Interesting property I’ve been involved with… I have sold many wonderful Victorian houses and flats as well as a number of light industrial use properties and some commercial properties which have had planning permission to change into residential use. I always enjoy returning to these conversions once the works have been carried out as some of the space and design is breathtaking.

Most unusual interior… A property we were marketing had been in the family for many years and was now vacant, what was somewhat unusual was that in every room there was a large galvanized metal bucket, which contained very large white Y fronts! Suffice to say they were not included in the ‘Fixtures and Fittings’ form or available by way of separate negotiation!

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We know how important it is to get the right person for the job.

www.chamberlandres.co.uk | 020 8704 1313 lettings@chamberlandres.co.uk | sales@chamberlandres.co.uk 212 Upper Richmond Road, London, SW15 6TD Chamberland_DEC.indd 4

11/11/2013 11:13

OARE, WILTSHIRE £2,750,000 FREEHOLD St. Philip Street, SW8 £975,000 Freehold SSTC in excess of the asking price

An extraordinary and individual modern country house in a stunning location. Built originally in 1962 for the artist John Merton, Pound House A beautifully presented, three bedroom, two bathroom family house, offering a modern ﬁnish combined with period detail. Downstairs the is broadly Palladian in style and is a wide, single storey building with large windows over looking the gardens. It was extended in 1978 to property has been extended with a stunning open plan kitchen, patio garden and double reception room. Upstairs there is decked roof include a garden room and a large studio complex including a workshop and dark room . The property currently has very high ceilings and terrace and the loft has been converted. brick parapets surrounding the roof which has good storage space. Four bedrooms | four bathrooms | garden room | hall | drawing room | studio complex | dining room | wine cellar | integrated garaging | small lake arboretum | over six acres of land Three Bedroom House with loft | Two bathrooms | Roof terrace and garden | Beautifully presented | Bright and spacious

Scan this code to download the Winkworth iPhone app

winkworth.co.uk/clapham

See things differently.

020 7498 8600 clapham@winkworth.co.uk WINKWORTH_B&C_DEC.indd 1

11/11/2013 13:50

OARE, WILTSHIRE £2,750,000 FREEHOLD Wandsworth Road, SW8 £625,000 Share of Freehold

An extraordinary and individual modern country house in a stunning location. Built originally in 1962 for the artist John Merton, Pound House A delightful, three bedroom, two bathroom ground floor garden flat, beautifully presented throughout with wood flooring, a contemporary is broadly Palladian in style and is a wide, single storey building with large windows over looking the gardens. It was extended in 1978 to finish and lots of natural light. The garden is extensive with decking and lawn. No onward chain. Conveniently located on the edge include a garden room and a large studio complex including a workshop and dark room . The property currently has very high ceilings and of Clapham Old Town and close to the array of bars, restaurants and amenities that the area offers as well as the green expanse of brick parapets surrounding the roof which has good storage space. Clapham Common. Four bedrooms | four bathrooms | garden room | hall | drawing room | studio complex | dining room | wine cellar | integrated garaging | small lake arboretum | over sixbedroom acres of land Three period apartment | Two bathrooms | Wonderful decked and lawned garden | Smart, modern finish | Light and deceptively spacious

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winkworth.co.uk/clapham

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020 7498 8600 clapham@winkworth.co.uk WINKWORTH_B&C_DEC.indd 2

11/11/2013 13:50

OARE, WILTSHIRE £2,750,000 FREEHOLD

Marmion Road, SW11 £975,000 Freehold SSTC

Garfield Road,and SW11 £1,295,000 Freehold An extraordinary individual modern country house in a stunning location. Built originally in 1962 for the artist John Merton, Pound House

An exceptional, four double bedroom, Victorian house in this desirable residential road off Clapham Common North Side. This wonderful is truly broadly Palladianand in style andVictorian is a wide,house single storey building with large windows overThe looking the gardens. It wasaccommodation extended in 1978 to a A impressive unique in this residential road. spacious retains family home is beautifully presented throughoutlocated and has beenprime lovingly maintained by thesurprisingly current owners. There is the potential to include a period garden features, room andhas a large studio complex including a workshop andprovides dark room . The property currently to has very high ceilings and to wealth an subject unusually large, private rear garden and extend subject extend of into the side return or loft to the usual planning consents. Located ona awonderful quiet roadopportunity moments away fromfurther, the amenities brick parapets surrounding the roof which has good storage space. the usual planning consents.Road The beautiful green Junction. open spaces Clapham Common are a short walk away and theare house is extremely of Battersea Rise, Northcote and Clapham The of beautiful green open spaces of Clapham Common conveniently well positioned for a number of excellent state and private schools, subject to catchment each year. located at the end of the road. Four bedrooms | four bathrooms | garden room | hall | drawing room | studio complex | dining room | wine cellar | integrated garaging | small lake arboretum |

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020 7228 9265 battersea@winkworth.co.uk WINKWORTH_B&C_DEC.indd Winkworth.BATT_APR.indd 2 3

11/11/2013 19:17 13:51 11/03/2013

OARE, WILTSHIRE £2,750,000 FREEHOLD

Marmion Road, SW11 £975,000 Freehold SSTC

An extraordinary individual modern country house in a stunning location. Built originally in 1962 for the artist John Merton, Pound House Nansen Road,and SW11 £1, 295,000 Freehold SSTC

An exceptional, four double bedroom, Victorian house in this desirable residential road off Clapham Common North Side. This wonderful is broadly Palladian in style and is a wide, single storey building with large windows over looking the gardens. It was extended in 1978 to A substantial, of terrace Victorian house located in one ofby Clapham Common North Side’s most desirable family home isbeautifully beautifullyappointed presentedend throughout and has been lovingly maintained the current owners. There is the potential to include a garden room and a large property studio complex including a workshop and darkthroughout room . The and property currently has very highblend ceilings and residential roads. This impressive is presented to exacting standards benefits from a wonderful of extend into the side return or loft subject to the usual planning consents. Located on a quiet road moments away from the amenities brick parapets surrounding the roof which has good storage space. contemporary living whilst retaining many originalJunction. period features and charm. of Battersea Rise, Northcote Road and Clapham The beautiful green open spaces of Clapham Common are conveniently located at the| end of the road. Four bedrooms four bathrooms | garden room | hall | drawing room | studio complex | dining room | wine cellar | integrated garaging | small lake arboretum |

Scan this code to download the Winkworth iPhone app

winkworth.co.uk/battersea

See things differently.

020 7228 9265 battersea@winkworth.co.uk WINKWORTH_B&C_DEC.indd Winkworth.BATT_APR.indd 2 4

11/11/2013 19:17 13:51 11/03/2013

ABSOLUTELY Property

Spotlight on

WANDSWORTH COMMON Richard Humphreys

THROUGH THE KEYHOLE... BRANDRETH ROAD, SW17 Price on Application

� Director, Rymer Irens, Nightingale Lane Office 020 8045 8989; rymer-irens.com

7 Superbly presented throughout, this wonderful and extremely

well-proportioned five double bedroom, three storey Victorian family house forms part of an attractive residential road, offering exceptional living and entertaining space as well as a lovely south facing garden.

7 Kitchen/Dining Family Room Extended and beautifully presented 30ft kitchen/ dining/family room with bespoke Harvey Jones kitchen, marble worktops and a range of built-in appliances.

7Master Bedroom Suite Luxurious master bedroom with half-level plantation shutters, walk-in dressing area and stylish en-suite bathroom with under-floor heating.

PUBLIC KNOWLEDGE

RAINY DAY

A long leisurely lunch in one of the many fine eateries along Bellevue Road is the perfect way to spend a few hours, follow up by reading the papers in front of the fire.

SPORTS & REC

The Common offers tennis, football, rugby and a fitness trail. But why not explore the Heathfield Bowls Club on Sandgate Lane as many younger players are taking up this sport.

7Garden Secluded and beautifully landscaped south-facing rear garden with paved sunterrace leading to Easigrass, which also boasts a mature bay tree and pear tree.

Phil Agius � Sales Manager, Jacksons Wandsworth Common 020 8672 9077; jacksonsestateagents.com

BEST SCHOOL

With many excellent local schools it would be tough to focus on just one. Accordingly, Jacksons have prepared a useful schools guide, which can be collected from our office.

FUN FOR FREE

There can be no better way to have fun for free than by utilising the wonderful green acres of Wandsworth Common, be it for walking the dog or just relaxing under a tree.

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Lower Richmond Road

£1,850 PCM

Holroyd Road

£1,675 PCM

Period Split Level Maisonette • Private Entrance • Two Double Bedrooms With Built In Storage • Reception Room With Double Height Ceiling • Kitchen On Mezzanine Level • Modern Bathroom • Large Private 16Ft Decked Roof Terrace • Close Proximity To The River Thames And Putney’s Transport Links

Spacious Garden Flat • Large Reception • Working Fireplace • Fitted Kitchen • Smart Bathroom • Well Proportioned Double Bedroom • Secluded Private Garden • Lovely Location • Short Walk To High Street

Oxford Road

Howards Lane

£1,575 PCM

Two Double Bedroom Flat • Reception Room • Modern Kitchen • Smart Bathroom With Shower • Moments From High Street, Mainline And Underground

£1,600 PCM

Two Storey Annexe • Two Double Bedrooms • Two Bathrooms • Well Equipped Kitchen • Lovely Airy Reception • Dining Area • Small Patio • Prime Upper West Putney Location • 10 Minute Walk To The High Street

194 Upper Richmond Road SW15 2SH / 139 Lower Richmond Road SW15 1EZ Tel: 020 8780 1100 / sales@warrenputney.co.uk / warrenputney.co.uk WARREN_B&C_dec.indd 2

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An elegant three bedroom semi-detached house enjoying a 73ft private rear garden situated in a Prime West Putney location. The property benefits from off street parking, and is set out over three floors.

Putney Bridge Road, SW15 £1,250,000

• Semi-Detached • Off-Street Parking • 73Ft Private Rear Garden • Double Reception • Bathroom • Dining Room • Family Room • Kitchen • Master Bedroom • En-Suite • Two Double Bedrooms • Family Bathroom

A spacious and well proportioned four bedroom Victorian terraced house, enjoying far reaching views over Wandsworth Park to the River Thames beyond. With over 1900 sq ft of accommodation, the property offers well proportioned rooms with character features.

Felsham Road, SW15 £1,425,000

• Over 1900 Sq Ft Of Accommodation • Double Reception Room • Cloakroom • Kitchen/Breakfast Room • Four Double Bedrooms • Family Bathroom • Shower Room • Study/Playroom Potential For Fifth Bedroom • South Facing Garden • Cellar

194 Upper Richmond Road SW15 2SH / 139 Lower Richmond Road SW15 1EZ WARREN_B&C_NOV.indd 2

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T: 020 8780 1100

Chartfield Avenue, SW15

warrenputney.co.uk

£2,250,000 Coalecroft Road, SW15

• Double Fronted Detached House • Entrance Hallway • Family Room • Drawing Room • Dining Room • Kitchen/Breakfast Room • Cloakroom • Master Bedroom With Ensuite Bathroom • Four Further Double Bedrooms • Family Bathroom

Farlow Road, SW15

• Five Bedroom Family Home • Semi Detached • Prime Upper West Putney Residential Road • Entrance Hallway • Reception Room • Dining Room • Kitchen/Breakfast Room • Utility Room • Downstairs Cloakroom • Study • Morning Room

£1,285,000 Denmark Road, SW19

• Freehold Terraced House • 25Ft Double Reception Room • 23Ft Kitchen/Breakfast Room • Four Double Bedrooms • Family Bathroom • Shower Room • Cellar • West Facing Garden • Double-Glazed Wood Framed Sash-Windows • Potential To Extend (Stpp)

£1,685,000

£499,000

• One Bedroom Cottage • Freehold • Private Patio Garden • Idyllic Location • Close To Wimbledon Village • Easy Access To Wimbledon Town • Newly Refurbished • Modern Kitchen • Short Walk To Common

Tel: 020 8780 1100 / sales@warrenputney.co.uk / warrenputney.co.uk WARREN_B&C_NOV.indd 3

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sullivanthomas.co.uk

BRODRICK ROAD SW17

£700 P/W

Large 4 bedroom family house on a desirable road in Wandsworth Common.

• 4 Bedrooms

• Cellar

• Double Reception Room

• Family House

• 3 Bathrooms

• Excellent Location

• Garden

• Unfurnished

UPPER RICHMOND ROAD SW15

Full online details including the EPC are available by scanning this code using any QR code scanner

Wandsworth Lettings: 020 8682 3121

£2,299 P/W

A rare opportunity to rent this exceptional Victorian villa with a 150ft garden on Upper Richmond Road.

• Unfurnished Property

• 5 Bathrooms

• House

• Large Garden

• 6 Bedrooms

• Driveway Parking Available

• 3 Receptions

• Long term

Wandsworth Lettings: 020 8682 3121

Fulham Bishops Park Sales: 020 7731 3333 Lettings: 020 7751 8898 Fulham Parsons Green Sales: 020 7751 8899 Lettings: 020 7751 8898

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ALTHORP ROAD SW17

£3,500,000 F/H

An outstanding opportunity to purchase both a unique 3,000 sq ft house with 5 bedrooms • Existing 5 Double Bed House • Kitchen/Breakfast Room and a 40’ West facing garden but also the adjacent plot with planning permission. • Plot with Current 65’ Garden • 40’ West Facing Garden • 2 Reception Rooms

• Off Street Parking

BRODRICK ROAD SW17

£2,300,000 F/H

This stunning interior designed family house offers accommodation and style that most people can only dream of and almost all aspire to.

• Absolutely Stunning

• Reception Room

• 5 Double Bedrooms

• 5 Bath/Shower Rooms

• 25’ Family Room

• 88’ South Facing Garden

• Harvey Jones Kitchen

• End Of Terrace

Wandsworth Sales: 020 8767 7711

Wandsworth Common Sales: 020 8767 7711 Lettings: 020 8682 3121

SULLIVAN THOMAS_DEC.indd 2

Full online details including the EPC are available by scanning this code using any QR code scanner

Wandsworth Sales: 020 8767 7711

sullivanthomas.co.uk

11/11/2013 14:01

ABSOLUTELY Property

Property News Corner Currell Culture

Local agent aspire sponsor Battersea Dogs & Cats Home’s first Christmas Carol Concert

s both are in the business of providing a home, there is a natural synergy between an estate agent and the world famous Battersea Dogs & Cats Home which - for as long as people can remember - has existed in the area. So it is not surprising that, as dedicated supporters of local community programmes across its South West London base, aspire estate agents will be sponsoring the Home’s first Christmas Carol event to be held in St Luke’s Church, Sydney Street in Chelsea. Mark Howell, Director of aspire’s Battersea office says; “Supporting local enterprises, charities, schools and special events is, we believe, a vital part of our role as a local business. We are delighted to be involved with the Christmas Carol event and with such a worthy organisation - we hope our support will help keep it thriving. After all, we are both in

the business of providing a sense of belonging, of community and of family by finding the perfect home.” For ticket information on the Christmas Carol event please contact Mark Howell at mark. howell@aspire.co.uk or tickets can be booked by emailing events@battersea.org.uk or calling the Home events team on 0207 627 9295.

John D Wood & Co. sponsor the Battersea Carols in the Square

ohn D Wood & Co. is proud to be the sole sponsor at this year’s Carols in the Square. Once again, the event will take place in Battersea Square, and the date for your diary is Tuesday 3rd December. Festivities begin at 6.30pm with Christmas music from a soundstage near the Christmas tree at the north end of the Square. Mardi Brass, the professional brass quintet will play and there will be community singing, both of Christmas carols and other suitably festive songs, ably supported by the choir of St Mary’s Church, Battersea and singers from local primary schools

including Westbridge and Thomas’s. Master of ceremonies will be Ben Thomas, the headmaster of Thomas’s School, Battersea. At 7pm the Mayor of Wandsworth will switch on the lights and there will be ‘snow’ and other festive surprises. More carol singing will follow with mulled wine, mince pies, hot chocolate and soup on offer. Official proceedings finish at about 7.45pm, but the bars, pubs and shops of Battersea Square and Battersea High Street will be open to warmly welcome customers throughout the evening. 020 7228 0171; johndwood.co.uk

Victoria Farrar � Director of Currell, Battersea 020 3668 1000; currell.com

tudio Voltaire is a contemporary gallery that supports emerging artists and supplies affordable studio space. Currently showing is an exhibition of figurative paintings by London artist Benjamin Senior. Displaying until the 14th December at 1a Nelson’s Row, SW4. Freeze Festival on Clapham Common is a winter paradise, as the park gets turned into an alpine themed resort. The festival is complete with ski and snowboard competitions, alpine themed après bars and a shopping village. From 27th November to 1st December. Want to get into the Christmas spirit early this year? Join in the Battersea Park Santa Run on the 1st December. Santa costumes are supplied and mulled wine and Christmas cake wait for you at the finish line.

ANDREW WILSON, local photographer is pleased to announce the imminent release of his new Battersea London publication, which is sponsored by Northcote Road Estate Agents Rampton Baseley. The book will be available from the end of November.

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ABSOLUTELY Property

Martin & Co review the year

ur market is based inChelsea & Prime Riverside so the summer months and indeed 2013 has been kind to us, as well as all sellers & landlords. Rentals prices in our area have remained firm and we have achieved a renewal rent increase rate of 4.1% so far this year. The market has recovered well from a tough first quarter that felt the impact of a minimal recruitment in the financial sector. Sales values have outstripped lettings with prices rising around 8.4% on the riverside & 10.7% in SW10 (Chelsea) since last October, this trend seems set to continue throughout 2014 with a number of new developments completing on the riverside. Our Riverside office located in Battersea Reach, SW18 has two new buildings called Jasmine & Horizon House completing in Q1 2014 and we anticipate a flurry of tenant activity for these highly desirable high spec apartments, that come with underground parking and gym included. Roll on 2014! Martin & Co, Chelsea & Riverside 020 7585 0504; martincochelsea.co.uk

Tenants in charge in 2013

Jonathan Loney

ollowing a fast paced 2013, the lettings market in Battersea has seen significantly higher levels of stock than in previous years, which has led to more choice for tenants. The demand for flats has remained high due to the constant turnover from professional sharers and young couples. Popularity for houses has lessened slightly, however, and as a result, rental prices for large family homes have decreased a little. Although rental yields are currently lower, investors are still seeing rises in the capital growth of their property. Accordingly we’ve noticed a return to the market of buy to let investors who are now benefitting from better mortgage rates. As we near the end of year, we’re beginning to see a reversal in stock levels, as an increasing number of landlords decide to sell their properties, combined with the typical seasonal lull in the market. As a result, we may start to see rents increase again as we enter 2014 and as we’ve seen with the market this year, much will depend on the levels of supply and demand.

Duncan Blakelock � Lettings Manager, Kinleigh Folkard & Hayward Battersea 020 7228 8688; kfh.co.uk

� Manager of John D Wood & Co., Southfields 020 8870 8811; johndwood.co.uk

Southfields on the up

s we enter into the festive period we can reflect on what has been a highly charged year in the housing market and in Southfields in particular. With South West London seeing some record prices, purchasers have been forced to look further afield than the more commonly sought areas of Wimbledon, Battersea and Clapham. Southfields, the once hidden gem, is now a recognisable hot spot, cited as being so in The Sunday Times. For those of us in the know, we are not surprised by this rise in popularity. With its good transport links, green open spaces and prominent local schools, Southfields offers all the characteristics families look for. What you may not expect for London, however, is the great feeling of community within the area where parents, schools and local business take time to work together and support each other. We have always been very keen to develop John D Wood & Co. within this community and have great enjoyed getting involved throughout the year sponsoring local events. We are currently supporting Sheringdale Primary School’s Christmas fair, which we hope you will all come along to.

THE BEST OF CLAPHAM VILLAGE Annual price increase: 10% | Average house price: £778,587 (Zoopla)

CLAPHAM COMMON NORTH SIDE, SW4 £385,000 - SHARED FREEHOLD KFH, CLAPHAM: 020 8675 5436

Located on the second floor of this popular period mansion block in the heart of Clapham Old Town and only moments from Clapham Common and the tube station, is this delightful one bedroom flat. Also offering a bright reception room with a separate kitchen and stylish bathroom, this flat is a great investment.

With Clapham Common to the south, Brixton to the east and Kennington to the north, fashionable Clapham is one of south London’s most popular and trendy enclaves. Three tube stations, a vibrant high street, the vast 220 acres of the Common, a busy cultural scene and the historic Old Town, mean that there’s something for everyone here. Historically, Clapham has a rich heritage dating back to Anglo Saxon times but it wasn’t until the late 17th Century that houses began to be built here. Today City professionals and families are still attracted here by

Transport links: Bus routes: 9, 10, 27, 391. Night bus: N9)

the strong village culture but its great bar scene, eclectic independent shops, colourful markets on the Common, gastro pubs and nightlife means that over the last few decades more and more graduates and young couples have been attracted here.

Interesting Fact : Buried deep beneath Clapham Common tube station lies the deep level air raid shelter, which was built for use during the Second World War.

Main schools: Addison Primary School Larmenier and Sacred Heart Primary School

For more information visit www.kfh.co.uk/village-guides

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Local know-how. Better results. Our ofďŹ ces:

Battersea

Chelsea

Fulham

Kensington

Mayfair

Pimlico & Westminster

Balham

Bishops Park

Clapham

Hammersmith

Little Venice

North Kensington

South Kensington

Barnes

Brook Green

Earls Court

Holland Park

Marylebone

Notting Hill

Freke Road SW11 ÂŁ1,250,000 A beautiful, fully extended family house located moments from the open spaces of Clapham Common. This charming house has been lovingly restored throughout and retains many of its original features. The accommodation comprises a light and airy double reception room with fireplace and cornicing and a spacious kitchen with dining area, leading out to a west facing patio garden. The upper floors comprise four bedrooms, including a master bedroom suite in the loft and a family bathroom. Freehold. EPC=D. Sole Agents.

BATTERSEA: 020 7228 9292 sales.bat@marshandparsons.co.uk

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Join us on Facebook: facebook.com/marshandparsons

Visit our YouTube channel: youtube.com/user/marshandparsons

SALES

See all of our properties online: marshandparsons.co.uk

Plato Road SW2 ÂŁ950,000 Located on a popular residential street between Clapham and Brixton, this superb Victorian family house provides generous living space arranged over three floors, comprising a wonderful kitchen/dining area leading out to a west facing garden and a separate reception room, four double bedrooms, a modern shower room and a family bathroom. The house further benefits from a large cellar and loft space, either of which could be extended into subject to the relevant consents. Freehold. EPC=E. Sole Agents.

CLAPHAM: 020 7501 3666 sales.clp@marshandparsons.co.uk

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Local know-how. Better results. Our ofﬁces:

Battersea

Chelsea

Fulham

Kensington

Mayfair

Pimlico & Westminster

Balham

Bishops Park

Clapham

Hammersmith

Little Venice

North Kensington

South Kensington

Barnes

Brook Green

Earls Court

Holland Park

Marylebone

Notting Hill

Taybridge Road SW11 £685,000 This beautiful two-bedroom split-level apartment is arranged over the top two floors of a pretty Victorian house, comprising a light-filled, double height reception room with stairs to a mezzanine kitchen/dining area leading out to a west facing terrace. The superb bedroom accommodation includes two double bedrooms and a family bathroom. Leasehold. EPC=D. Sole Agents. BATTERSEA: 020 7228 9292 sales.bat@marshandparsons.co.uk

Lynette Avenue SW4 £695,000 This superb two-bedroom property is located in the heart of the Abbeville Village, a short walk from the amenieties of Clapham South. The stunning accommodation includes a large reception room with feature fire place, a separate fitted kitchen leading out to the garden, a master bedroom with built-in wardrobes, a second bedroom and a bathroom. Benefits include a cellar for storage and planning permission to extend further. Leasehold. Sole Agents. BALHAM: 020 8673 4377 sales.bal@marshandparsons.co.uk

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Join us on Facebook: facebook.com/marshandparsons

Visit our YouTube channel: youtube.com/user/marshandparsons

LETTINGS

See all of our properties online: marshandparsons.co.uk

Coral Row SW11 £800 per week Situated in a stunning riverside development, this house is perfect for anyone who likes to entertain. The property comprises a professional kitchen on the ground floor and upstairs, there’s wonderful living space flooded with natural light, stretching the entire length of the property, including a reception room with balcony, a second kitchen, dining area and a large roof terrace. The second floor boasts a master bedroom with built-in storage and en suite bathroom, a further two bedrooms and family bathroom. BATTERSEA: 020 7228 9292 lets.bat@marshandparsons.co.uk

Stanley Grove SW8 £425 per week A stunning two-bedroom apartment located in the highly sought after Diamond Conservation Area of Clapham. This two-bedroom period property is arranged over two floors and finished to a high standard throughout. The apartment comprises two double bedrooms, two modern bathrooms and an open plan kitchen/reception room leading out to a private decked terrace. This property is perfect for professional sharers or a couple alike. EPC=E. CLAPHAM: 020 7501 3666 lets.clp@marshandparsons.co.uk Tenant fees apply, see www.marshandparsons.co.uk/services/lettings/tenant-fees for more information.

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ABSOLUTELY Property

Property News A cracker of a year in 2013

Oliver Whitehead � Owner of Oportfolio 020 88771169; oportfolio.co.uk

ith Christmas fast approaching, it’s time to take a look back on the year and all it has meant for London’s housing market. House prices across the nation have risen by almost 7% since this time last year with the current national house price now standing at £242,415*. By almost double the amount, London’s average house prices are up to a whopping £475,940* this year and we see no sign of this trend abating as we go into 2014. This year will always be marked as the year of the Help to Buy scheme. With rates coming under downwards pressure as a result of Funding for Lending which was introduced back in 2012, more and more people were able to get their foot on the ladder this year or re mortgage to a more affordable

Why choose a Short Let Apartment over a Hotel Room?

rate. To add to the mix, with the introduction of Help to Buy in the Spring, housing market activity and levels of first time buyers rose again to an almost 5 year high. All in all, a great year for the housing market and we are looking forward to an even better year ahead. All I would say is if you are planning to start house hunting in the Spring, don’t leave it too long to talk to an adviser who knows the market, the local area and ways to take the hassle out of moving home. One thing’s for sure; if the market does what I think it will do next year, you’re going to need someone on your side to help.

*Figures correct at time of going to press

UP YOUR STREET

ore and more people are choosing a very attractive alternative to hotels. Discerning renters are looking for the comforts of home when, for whatever reason, they can’t be in their own home. These are the people in the know. The majority of people; however, are missing out on the added value experience of staying in a fully equipped short let home. Why? Because they don’t know where or how to find a decent place to book’. The perception is that even if a place looks great on the website, you have no guarantee of what you will find on arrival. Short Let In London.com has the answer. We have total control over every property in our portfolio ensuring: 1. Quality and a high degree of cleanliness are applied consistently. 2. All property details are accurate; we know our properties ‘inside out’. 3. Personal service from one team for all properties. 4. Convenient online booking & payment; renting through Short Let In London.com is as easy to do as booking a hotel. 5. Length of stay correlates with your rental price; it will cost less per week to stay for 5 months than it will for 5 weeks. Short Let in London 0208 675 8308; shortletinlondon.com

Parkfields, SW15 £1,850,000

arkfields SW15 was one of the earliest integrated developments built in Putney by Mr Henry Scarth (1801 – 1870), an attorney-at law, between the late 1840’s and 1860. The Parish Registers of Putney by Amy Charlotte Hare (1858- 1942) records that Henry was ‘very successful in building speculations and in this he became very rich’. Henry Scarth was also a great traveller who returned from a tour of Turkey with a young Arab called Yussef Sirrie as his servant. He was the ‘Arab Boy’ from which the present Public House at the north end of Parkfields derives its name. Number 1 Parkfields is a characterful and extremely appealing four bedroom semidetached family home. It retains many of the original features that date back to the mid 19th century, while being sympathetically extended and refurbished to create a very stylish and comfortable house. Warren 020 8780 1100; warrenputney.co.uk

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London Lettings Chelsea & Riverside London Sales & Lettings Chelsea & Riverside

Exclusively Battersea Reach T LE

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open in Battersea Battersea Reach! Reach!

Ensign House 3 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, Approx 1,500 Sq Ft £995 per week

£1,500pw £1,500pw

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Kings Chelsea, Chelsea, Kings Kings Road Road Kings

£575pw £575pw

£1,500pw £1,500pw

l Furnished l Brand New Apar tment New Apartment Compass House, Compass House, Chelsea Chelsea Creek Creek l Short Let l Let l 2 Bedrooms l Bedrooms ll Furnished ll Brand Furnished Brand New New Apar Apar tment tment ll Short ll 2 Short Let Let 2 Bedrooms Bedrooms l l

Flotilla House 3 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms, Approx 1,700 Sq Ft £1500 per week

l West West Facing l FacingBalcony Balcony£575pw 1 Bedroom Apar tment Bedroom Apartment Kings Chelsea, Road Kings Chelsea, Kings Kings Road l Approx 500 l 500sqsqft ft £575pw l Furnished l ll West ll 1 West Facing Facing Balcony Balcony 1 Bedroom Bedroom Apar Apar tment tment ll Approx ll Furnished Approx 500 500 sq sq ft ft Furnished l l

Compass House, House, Chelsea Chelsea Creek Creek Compass

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Kingfisher House 2 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, Approx 1,250 Sq Ft £795 per week

Spinnaker House 2 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, Approx 800 Sq Ft £550 per week

If you are looking to buy or rent in Battersea Reach, please come and new to office or please contact us on: and If youvisit are our looking buyin orFlotilla rent inHouse Battersea Reach, please come · Award Winning Riverside Living visit our new office in Flotilla· 24 House or call us on Hour Concierge · Underground Parking 020 7585 0504 · Residents Gym riverside@martinco.com · On Site Tesco, Young’s Pub, Restaurants, www.martincoriverside.co.uk www.martincoriverside.co.uk Coffee Shops & Nursery

Tetcott Road, Road, Chelsea Chelsea Tetcott

£1,750pw £1,750pw

Sloane Gardens, Gardens, Chelsea Chelsea Sloane

£1,650pw £1,650pw

l Furnished l Large Reception Room l l Room Throughout l Contemporary Contemporar y Apartment l Immaculate Throughout l Approx 1100 ft l Approx 1500 ft ft£1,650pw l 1100sqsq ft l 1500sqsq l 2 Bedroom House l 3 Bedrooms l Bedroom House l Bedrooms Tetcott Road, Chelsea £1,750pw Sloane Gardens, Chelsea Get in touch with us today£1,750pw to see what we can do for you,Chelsea and your property. £1,650pw Tetcott Road, Chelsea Sloane Gardens, ll Furnished ll Large ll Immaculate ll Contemporar Furnished Large Reception Reception Room Room Contemporar yy Apartment Apartment Immaculate Throughout Throughout ll Approx 1100 sq ft l Approx ll 2 Bedroom House l 3 Bedrooms Approx 1100 sq ft l Approx 1500 1500 sq sq ft ft 2 Bedroom House l 3 Bedrooms l l

Unit A, Flotilla House, Juniper Drive, Battersea Reach, London SW180NA 1FX 1 Cremorne Rd Chelsea London SW10 020 7585 0504 t:t: 020 7351 0387 e:e:riverside@martinco.com chelsea@martinco.com www.martincoriverside.co.uk www.martincochelsea.co.uk

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Unit A, Flotilla House, Juniper Drive, Battersea Reach SW18 1FX 1 Cremorne Rd Chelsea London SW10 0NA t:020 7585 0504 e: riverside@martinco.com www.martincolondon.com t: 020 7351 0387 e: chelsea@martinco.com www.martincochelsea.co.uk

11/11/2013 15:10 11:20 06/08/2013

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featherstoneleigh.co.uk

Barnard Mews, Battersea

ÂŁ750,000 A stunning mews house offering open plan living space, two bedrooms and two bathrooms and benefits from its own allocated parking space. EPC = E.

t: 020 7228 2278

Battersea

West Kensington

Barnes

Sheen

Kingston

Clapham

Fulham

Richmond

Twickenham

Chiswick

Putney

Chelsea

Kew

Teddington

Hammersmith

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Eversleigh Road, Battersea

£675,000 Featherstone Leigh are delighted to market this beautifully presented two bedroom Shaftesbury Cottage. The property is offered to the market with no onward chain. EPC = D.

t: 020 7228 2278

Leathwaite Road, Battersea

£585 pw Unique split level three bedroom apartment with a private roof top terrace and located in the everpopular "between the commons" area. Available immediately. EPC = D.

t: 020 7228 2378

• £35.00 (including VAT) per person for referencing

TENANT FEES: • £180.00 (including VAT) per property for the tenancy agreement

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Offices throughout London

Beresford House, SW4

£539,950

Turenne Close, SW18

£399,950

An amazing two double bedroom purpose built apartment, in a private gated block between Clapham North & Brixton. Offering wellproportioned accommodation of approx.904ft2 and presented in good decorative order throughout. EPC = B.

A spacious two bedroom spit level flat situated in a lovely purpose-built development within walking distance from Clapham Junction Station (BR). The flat comprises of an eat-in kitchen, two double bedroom, balcony, excellent storage space, a bright and spacious living room and parking. EPC: D.

Clapham Office 020 7627 8084 clapham@bushells.com

Plato Road, SW2

Kings Avenue, SW12

£499,950

£550,000

A two bedroom ground floor garden flat, located on this well regarded road between Clapham and Brixton, offering a wealth of period features, potential to extend (STPP) and a stunning private garden. With no onward chain, and a share of the freehold. EPC = D

A stunning three double bedroom garden flat, offering over 1000sqft of internal living space and the potential to extend further (STPP). The flat occupies the ground floor of this imposing period house, and has the benefit of a private 61ft garden, a summerhouse that is heated and off street parking. EPC = D.

Clapham Office 020 7627 8084 clapham@bushells.com

Acton  Balham  Bloomsbury  Battersea  Camden  Clapham  Dulwich  Fulham  Hammersmith  Islington  West Hampstead

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bushells.com

Kingswood Road, SW2

£540,000

A beautifully presented, bright and spacious three bedroom maisonette offering generous living space of approx 1218sqft and ample period charm and character. The property consists of: Three double bedrooms, family bathroom, large and bright reception room, modern fitted kitchen and a separate dining room. There is also the benefit of a private balcony and your own front door. EPC E

Clapham Office 020 7627 8084 clapham@bushells.com

PART OF THE EDMUND CUDE GROUP

Acton  Balham  Bloomsbury  Battersea  Camden  Clapham  Dulwich  Fulham  Hammersmith  Islington  West Hampstead

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ABSOLUTELY Property

Showcase

Brixton Hill, SW2ď ź ÂŁ369,950 Leasehold

two bedroom period conversion flat with access to a balcony, set back off Brixton Hill. The open plan reception and kitchen offer a sociable and accessible entertaining and relaxing space of over 300 sq ft, which is sure to impress. The second bedroom is a versatile single bedroom or study

and a unique L shaped shower room will freshen the deepest of sleepers.

Contact haart, Brixton 020 7274 2878; haart.co.uk

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OFFICES THROUGHOUT SOUTH WEST LONDON clapham south

balham

battersea

clapham north

020 8673 6111

020 7801 3400

020 7840 3700

020 8675 1222

fulham central

fulham south 020 7736 6110

furzedown

tooting

020 7381 7381

020 8769 7900

020 8772 7080

Welmar Mews, SW4

£895,000

Forming part of a converted piano factory this exceptional property has recently been renovated to a very high standard. The accommodation comprises of two double bedrooms on the ground floor the master having an en-suite shower room, there is also ample storage and a further bathroom. On the first floor there is an impressive open plan living area with a double height celling and roof lights flooding the room with natural light. • Stunning refurbishment • Open plan living • Two bedrooms • Two bathrooms • Roof terrace

aspire clapham south 020 8675 1222 clapham@aspire.co.uk

SOUTH WEST LONDON’S LEADING ESTATE AGENT

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.co.uk

11/11/2013 11:09

OFFICES THROUGHOUT SOUTH WEST LONDON clapham south

balham

battersea

clapham north

020 8673 6111

020 7801 3400

020 7840 3700

020 8675 1222

fulham central

fulham south 020 7736 6110

furzedown

tooting

020 7381 7381

020 8769 7900

Balfern Street, SW11

020 8772 7080

£850,000

This three bedroom mid terrace house, set in heart of Battersea would make a perfect family home or investment. The property offers great potential to extend (STTP) and benefits from a west facing garden and is ideally positioned for the local amenities and transport links in and out of the city. • Spacious double reception • Separate kitchen with utility room • Large master bedroom with en-suite • Two further double bedrooms • Spacious loft • West facing patio

aspire battersea 020 7801 3400 battersea@aspire.co.uk

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Old Devonshire Road, SW12

£525 per week

A truly amazing ground floor conversion flat in the heart of Balham. Accommodation comprises two double bedrooms, master bedroom with beautiful feature wall and large wardrobes, a luxury bathroom suite with spa shower enclosure and separate bath. The open plan living enjoys a modern fitted kitchen with breakfast bar and patio doors leading onto decking and large private garden. The property offers a large basement storage area as well as under floor heating in the living area and bathroom. • Close to High Road and tube. • Luxury bathroom. • Beautiful garden.

aspire balham 020 8673 6111 balham@aspire.co.uk

SOUTH WEST LONDON’S LEADING ESTATE AGENT

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.co.uk

31/10/2013 15:52

OFFICES THROUGHOUT SOUTH WEST LONDON clapham south

balham

battersea

clapham north

020 8673 6111

020 7801 3400

020 7840 3700

020 8675 1222

fulham central

fulham south 020 7736 6110

furzedown

tooting

020 7381 7381

020 8769 7900

020 8772 7080

Battersea Bridge Road, SW11

£699,950

A recently refurbished property located in the heart of Battersea that boasts an abundance of open living space and a large private garden. Situated moments from the local amenities of Battersea Square and Chelsea, the property is ideally suited for a family or a couple. • Two double bedrooms • Master bedroom with en-suite • Family bathroom • Open plan living/kitchen area • Ample storage • Excellent transport links in and out of city

aspire battersea 020 7801 3400 battersea@aspire.co.uk

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Taybridge Road, SW11

£900 per week

A stunning five double bedroom family house in this popular location just off Clapham Common Northside. The property has been extensively refurbished throughout and is set over 4 levels, benefiting from an abundance of natural light throughout. • Master bedroom with en-suite • Further four double bedrooms • Large double reception room • Fully extended kitchen • Basement with study/office • West facing balcony

aspire battersea 020 7801 3400 battersea@aspire.co.uk

SOUTH WEST LONDON’S LEADING ESTATE AGENT

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ABSOLUTELY Property

Prime Purchase An exceptional family house in excess of 3000 square feet, every inch of which has been meticulously finished and stylishly designed to a very high specification.

ehind its pristine Victorian facade, this beautiful, wide property has been virtually rebuilt, during an extensive programme of extension, refurbishment and renovation. The layout and balance of accommodation has been carefully considered to provide fantastic living space and a high ratio of bathrooms to bedrooms - the result is a stylish modern interior perfectly set up for modern living. The rear garden, which receives excellent summer sun, has been given equal treatment having been beautifully landscaped in modern style. Granard Road is an exclusive, quiet tree-lined street directly off Wandsworth Common.

Details

Granard Road, SW12 ÂŁ2,750,000 Freehold

Contact

John Thorogood 020 7228 7474; john-thorogood.co.uk

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lauristons

A SHOWCASE OF SUSTAINABILITY STANDARDS...

DECEMBER 2013

ABSOLUTELY PROMOTION

VICTORY! WARRIORS WIN AGAIN!

BOREDOMPANTO BUSTERS SEASON ARRIVES IN WIMBLEDON

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ABSOLUTELY PROMOTION

ESTATE AGENCY FOUNDATION RAISING FUNDS BY ROUGHING IT

ver the course of 2013 Lauristons have been supporting the Estate Agency Foundation, helping to raise ÂŁ150,000 for charities combating the causes of homelessness, including by participating in the recent Property Cycle ride through London. Looking ahead to 2014, Lauristons will be continuing to work with the Foundation starting off with sleeping rough for a night to raise funds for the charities

and through ongoing events, updated on our blog page on lauristons.com where we will add detail on how to sponsor as well as reports after the event. We look forward to working with the Foundation and raising more money for these worthwhile causes. To make a donation: http://uk.virginmoneygiving. com/charity-web/charity/ finalCharityHomepage. action?charityId=1003703

COMMUNITY NOTES

LETTINGS LEGISLATION UPDATE

WIMBLEDON WELCOMES JO BRAND

rom 6th December at the New Wimbledon Theatre, BAFTA-winning comedienne, writer and actress Jo Brand makes her pantomime debut as Genie of the Ring. She is joined by street dancers Flawless as the Peking Police Force, and Olivier award winning actor and television presenter Matthew Kelly as Widow Twanky. The cast will also be joined by two renowned West End musical theatre stars; Oliver Thornton (Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Starlight Express, The Rocky Horror Show) will play the title role of Aladdin, and Olivier

ALEX VINTER Divisional Head Of Lettings

award winning actor David Bedella (Jerry Springer - The Opera, The Rocky Horror Show) will play Abanazer.

DECEMBER CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY BOREDOM BUSTERS

UP & ABOUT LAURISTONS_EDITORIALSTYLE.indd 108

n 2014 the government will initiate legislative changes to restrict access within the UK to illegal immigrants. This includes extra checks when applying for a driving license, bank account, and applying to rent a property. To ensure Landlords remain compliant with these changes a number of new measures will need to be taken in addition to some of the best practices already in place. It is essential to ensure proposed tenants have a valid passport and that it does not expire within the term of their tenure in the property

Furthermore, if the applicant is not an EU resident, Landlords will be required to verify the tenants have a right to stay in the UK and that their visa is valid for the duration of their proposed stay. Finally, the Landlord will have to check they have a right to work or study as applicable in the UK and whether any further restrictions on their stay are imposed upon them. These should be the standard for a reputable agent or thorough landlord, but as they are going to be legislative requirementsnext year, then it is even more imperative to ensure that the necessary checks are carried out in advance of the tenantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s occupancy. For more information, please call us on 020 8772 9373 Alex.vinter@lauristons.com

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland From 22nd November at 5pm, the Hyde Park Winter Wonderland opens its gates, continues throughout the holiday season and is free to enter! This year promises even more thrills, spectacle and Christmas magic. Tickets are available to purchase on site for ice skating, Zippos circus, the giant wheel and visiting the magical ice kingdom. www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com

12/11/2013 16:02

Local. Trusted. Recommended. SPORTS NEWS

GOLDEN OLDIES FOOTBALL

BALHAM BLAZERS

ollowing an encouraging start to the season, winning their first two games 4-2 and 13-3 respectively, the Lauristons U8s tasted defeat for the first time against a very well organised Bedhead Blue side. It’s all about how you respond and the U8s, who are playing their first full season together, didn’t waste any time in getting back to winning ways. They went on to win their next three games in style, scoring an impressive 39 goals and conceding just two along the way, with their passing football drawing praise from the touchline. Sterner tests await, but at the moment Cameron,

Henry, Max, Maxwell, Noah, Preston and Toby are enjoying life in the London County Saturday Youth football league. Likewise the Lauristons U10 Colts, after a couple of defeats to the top two clubs in the league, have since bounced back with three consecutive victories lifting them to fourth in the table, scoring 13 goals and conceding only five. Well done to all the boys and we look forward to continued progress and the prospect of some silverware at the end of the season. balhamblazers.org.uk/index.htm

THE OLD FELLERS

he first Balham Blazers FC Old Fellers 6-a-side Tournament of the season will take place on Friday December 6th and Lauristons have entered two teams of such gentleman of a certain age. Staged specifically for players past their prime but, who still fancy that they have a bit of the Messi about them, will be taking to the pitches at 3g at Chestnut Grove School, SW12 8JZ, in a keenly contested eight team tournament. As the sponsors of the U8 and U10 Colts it seemed only appropriate that we take some of Lauristons more mature maestros to the tournament to show our lads some Brazilian magic of our own. Look out in our next edition for the results.

U13 MATCH REPORT 6TH OCTOBER 2013 Old Wimbledonian Warriors 63 v London Scottish 0

WIMBLEDON WARRIORS RFC

e are delighted to report that the Wimbledon Warriors Under 7’s won the King’s Mini Rugby Festival yesterday, remaining undefeated throughout the tournament. They won their group games 8 - 4, 11 - 4, 8 - 5 and 11 - 6 (against the home Kings team), coming top of the Group went straight to the Final. The team (Matthew Hodgson, Freddie Stott, Jasper Abington, Maddox Dakin, James Edser and Luke Moretti) demonstrated great teamwork all day. All the spectators heard was the Warriors shouting “tag, tag, tag” as they kept stopping their opponents. As an attacking unit, they took turns to make the first run and showed amazing

support play to score some great tries. It’s not often you witness a tournament where there is no obvious standout player and everyone contributes equally to the success. To put this into perspective, the Warriors beat Wimbledon A team 10 - 8 in the final and all six of our players scored at least one try. In the final they made zero errors and poor Wimbledon A only made one error! Well done to the boys, parents and coaches; another fine day that the boys will remember for a long time to come. wimbledonian-warriors.com

ld Wimbledonians U13 played their first league match on Sunday 6th October with a full squad available plus 6 subs on the bench. It was a really impressive and strong display for the first league match. The Wimbledonians scored first but it was somewhat concerning that Farnham came back and scored on their very next possession with a break-away try, which probably could have been prevented. But from there the Warriors re-established their dominance and played most of the 1st half deep in Farnham territory. By half time they were leading by 5 trys to 1. It was a fast rucking game, with good handling and very few mistakes particularly in the first half. The Warriors were positive and confident, played well as a team with a shape and discipline that made the difference between the two squads. The forwards were outstanding at the breakdown creating long periods of possession and

multiple phases each time they had the ball. For the 2nd half the Warriors played all of their subs which showed the depth of the squad. Overall a very impressive performance and we look forward to the next league match against Esher in a few weeks’ time. Final Score: Warriors 43, Farnham 12.

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ABSOLUTELY PROMOTION

PROPERTY ROUNDUP This months property highlights Lavender Hill, SW11

fantastic split level two double bedroom apartment. Situated on Lavender Hill, within easy reach of the local restaurants, shops and the amenities of Lavender Hill and Clapham Old Town. The property has a stunning stone finished floor in the 39 foot reception room, and comprises of a modern bathroom, shower room, separate WC, large fully fitted kitchen, a good sized master bedroom and a second double bedroom. A remarkable property which you must see to appreciate. EPC EER E

£575,000 Leasehold Battersea Sales 020 7978 5800

Jeffreys Road, SW4

Surrey Lane, SW11

he last few units remaining within a newly converted development of apartments with one individual ‘Lodge House’ by renowned developers Henley Homes on the site of the former Annie McCall Hospital in Clapham, SW4. These fantastic apartments feature high ceilings, communal gardens, many retained character features, all coupled with high specification contemporary kitchens, bathrooms and finishing. All properties will include 10 year building warranties with completions from Summer 2014 onwards.

obalt Place, A new development by internationally renowned developer Lend Lease. These 104 stunning new properties are built to the highest sustainability standards, with high quality specification including contemporary kitchens with handless doors, double-glazed windows, underfloor heating and fresh air ventilation to each apartment. Many of the apartments feature either balconies or patio gardens to the ground floor and private parking available at an additional cost. Completion estimated for Spring/Summer 2015.

From £450,000 / £530,000

From £385,000 / £510,000

New Homes 0870 600 3690

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Local. Trusted. Recommended. The Pavilions, SW20

superbly presented modern three storey town house located in a private cul-de-sac offering direct views to the rear across extensive playing fields. Approximately 1,700 Sq. Ft. of accommodation and featuring a south west facing reception with full width balcony, three double bedrooms, two of which contain en-suite bathrooms, a further single bedroom, family bathroom, downstairs

Norman Road, SW19

cloakroom, integral garage, an open plan luxury fitted kitchen/dining room and a fully enclosed south west facing rear garden. Located within 0.2 of a mile from Raynes Park town centre and mainline station. No forward chain. EPC EER C.

£825,000

Wimbledon Sales 020 8946 9468

Putney Wharf, SW18

£1,750 Per Calendar Month

£845,000

Wimbledon Lettings 020 8405 5340

Putney Sales 020 8780 8780

et on a sought-after residential road, this beautifully presented two bedroom semi-detached house is smartly presented, offers ample living and entertaining space, spacious double reception room, well equipped kitchen/diner with granite worktops and quality fixtures. EPC-EER-D

charming two double bedroom apartment situated on the third floor of this prestigious Riverside Development beside Putney Bridgeand boasting attractive views of the River Thames. Benefiting from two bathrooms, a private balcony and allocated parking, the property is offered to the market with no onward chain. EPC EER C

Thornton Place, SW4

his bright and spacious two bedroom three bath apartment offers well presented living and entertaining accommodation in a superb location along Clapham Common. The property comprises a lovely reception room with wonderful park views, modern kitchen with integrated appliances, two well proportioned double bedrooms both with two en-suite and a further contemporary family bathroom. EPC EER B

£2,513 Per Calendar Month Battersea Lettings 020 7978 5800

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www.pedderproperty.com

A local institution Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy to forget how quickly estate agents come and go. But a high street presence of 30-plus years is impressive by any standard. Our long track record has given us a detailed knowledge of all the leafiest streets, the best primary schools, even the best Saturday morning cup of coffee. But most of all it has given us an acute understanding of the property market in SE London, and the experience to be honest and open with our clients. Pedder. Nobody knows South East London like we know South East London.

A passion for property Pedder. SE Londonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier agent

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04/11/2013 24/10/2013 17:18 14:56

Quiet Location Guide Price £740,000 £760,000 Archbishop Place, SW2 Ref: 7771 A lovely semi-detached Victorian house- with a breathtaking 21ft eatin kitchen with a finish to die for. The ground floor is complemented by a fantastic separate reception and the side access is perfect for cyclists with a cycle port neatly arranged in the courtyard garden. The upper floors present immaculate accommodation with two en-suite bathrooms conveniently arranged with the two double bedrooms • Three Bedrooms • Two En-Suites • Eat in Kitchen • Semi Detached • Private Balcony

EPC = E

Victorian House Asking Price £750,000 Elm Park, SW2 Ref: 7373 Prepare to be amazed with the impressive feeling of space and light in this 4 bedroom house situated in this sought after road off the slopes of Brixton Hill. Love running- Brockwell Park is just 500m from the property with it’s 125 acres of open green land. Delight in Brixton Village and Brixton’s market tempting you with superb fresh produce. The nearby Victoria Line provided superb access into and out of the City. • Mid Terrace • Spacious Kitchen • Through Reception • Four Bedrooms • Rear Garden • Victorian House

EPC = D

haart of BRIXTON

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11/11/2013 11:16

Brixton 020 7274 2878

Call us 8am - 10pm everyday

Full of Character Guide Price £480,000-£520,000 Milton Road, SE24 Ref: 7846 This amazing versatile one/two double bedroom, bay fronted period property is full of character. Steps up to the hall floor lead you into the flat with it’s spacious open plan reception/kitchen that is a dream for entertaining. Steps down at the rear, lead out on to the private section of the garden providing a haven for Summer Barbecues and garden enthusiasts. • Period Conversion • Two Double Bedrooms • Versatile Layout •Poets Corner • Private section Of Garden • Share Of Freehold

EPC = TBC

Truly Stunning GUIDE PRICE £440,000£460,000 Thornbury Road, SW2 Ref: 7669 A truly stunning example of a period conversion with original features including impressively preserved matching marble surround fireplaces and sash windows. A highly functional and practical 100 sq ft eat-in kitchen and the private well established rear garden will entice the keenest of buyers. Thornbury Road is set within popular and peacefully quiet Clapham Park yet still just 1 mile form Clapham South Tube and 1.2 miles from Brixton Tube. • Period Conversion • Ground Floor • One Bedroom • Private Garden • Cellar/Store Room • Chain Free

EPC = TBC

For more properties in your area visit haart.co.uk

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ABSOLUTELY Property

Luxurious Lettings

he apartment comprises two bedrooms, one en-suite, a large bathroom, fully integrated kitchen/ dining room with far reaching views. The master bedroom and living area have direct access to two decked roof terraces. The development has its own gym and cinema and the apartment benefits from a secure underground parking space. The location offers flexibility being only a short walk from both Wimbledon Village and the direct train links to London from Wimbledon Town. Available for short let.

Details

Lanherne House, SW20 ÂŁ6,000 Per Month

Contact

John D Wood & Co., Wimbledon 020 8946 9447; johndwood.co.uk

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OPORTFOLIO.indd 2

YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE

personal mortgage advice

31/07/2013 14:36

increase in viewings1

Sales

in tenants looking for a property1

Balham: 020 8675 2244 Battersea: 020 7326 8171 Putney: 020 8780 2233 Southfields: 020 8874 6686 Streatham: 020 8769 7722

viewings to get an offer 1

Lettings Balham: 020 8675 5060 Battersea: 020 7326 8173 Putney: 020 8780 2667 Earlsfield: 020 8944 9020 Streatham: 020 8769 4477

*Varies by branch. 1 Andrews internal figures for April-June 2013 vs the same period in 2012.

ANDREWS_NOV.indd 2

03/10/2013 15:19

SUPER

SUNDAYS V ALUATIONS & VIEWINGS

V ALUATIONS & VIE WINGS

Valuations and viewings now available on Sundays*

Convenient late night valuations and viewings until 8pm*

Your questions answered LIVE on Twitter, Wednesdays 12-2pm. #propertyhour

Book viewings and valuations online at: andrewsonline.co.uk

To book your FREE valuation or a viewing contact us today 2

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ANDREWS_NOV.indd 3

Free valuation does not apply to valuations conducted for insurance or mortgage purposes.

03/10/2013 15:19

ABSOLUTELY Property

New to the market � Lavender Gardens, SW11 £750,000 (S.O.F.)

Vendor Advice Annual Review

013 took everybody in the property market by surprise. The price rises vared from area to area and also by type of property, but suffice to say, a 10% increase was at the lower end of the spectrum. So what has driven the terrific price rises that we’ve seen this year? Well, we have the usual supply and demand issues that we have been seeing now for approximately a year and a half. Property coming onto the market is a third less than the norm and buyer numbers are ever increasing. Although this explains some of the reasons, I think we have to understand that the foreign purchasers who used to be very much a prime central London phenomena, are now very happy to purchase almost anywhere in town. This means London as a whole has become a pooled investment vehicle, for overseas and British buyers alike. Will this continue into 2014? As I talk to the Douglas & Gordon offices, they don’t foresee much changing. They talk about a 10% rise in values over the coming year. Which would seem in my opinion, about right in prime South-West London, but possibly asking prices will go even higher than that. I believe prime central London will remain relatively flat on values, with asking prices possibly falling back in line with achieved prices towards the end of next year. With loan to value averaging at approximately 35% for the past six months, with the mortgages we arrange, something will have to dramatically change to persuade people to sell. Even small interest rate increases over the next year might not be enough, however I think that would possibly create a little nervousness in the vendors.

George Franks �

Sales Director, Douglas & Gordon 020 7924 2000; douglasandgordon.com

7 An exceptional two double bedroom flat that is situated on the ground and lower ground floors of this wonderful Victorian property. The property benefits from a large open plan reception / kitchen breakfast room, two double bedrooms, two bathrooms and a large West facing garden. L avender Gardens is a sought after address running between Lavender Hill and Clapham Common North Side.

Contact

Featherstone Leigh, Battersea 020 7228 2278; featherstoneleigh.co.uk

� Nursery Road, SW9 £750,000 Freehold

7 A superb opportunity presents itself in this delightfully presented two bedroom mid terraced Victorian house - the most discerning of buyers should prepare for the impressive luxuriant design of the eat-in kitchen with its bespoke designed ‘oversized’ roof light flooding brightness into your dining -repointing plus a new roof provides a ‘plug in and play’ purchase.

Contact

haart, Brixton haart.co.uk; 020 7274 2878

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ABSOLUTELY Property

Lowdown for landlords � Lavender Hill, SW11£375 Per Week

Lowdown for Landlords Annual Review Alex Vinter

� Divisional Lettings Manager, Lauristons

020 8772 9373; lauristons.com

7This split level apartment is light and bright throughout . Accommodation comprises; large, well appointed reception room with feature fireplace, modern fully fitted eat in kitchen. The master bedroom is large and benefits from a modern en suite bathroom. Upstairs there is a versatile space, which would be ideal for either a double bedroom or study.

Contact

Bushells, Battersea 020 7738 1538; bushells.com

� Dulka Road, SW11£850 Per Week

7 This beautifully finished Victorian house is presented in excellent decorative order with a light and tasteful theme. The property includes four double bedrooms (one with en suite bathroom), a cellar and a kitchen with black granite work surfaces and integrated appliances.

Following consistently strong increases in rent across SW London in previous years, 2013 saw market rents soften and begin to plateau. This is in reaction to lower salary increases versus inflation and due to rents increasing by inflation busting rates over the past 5 years. Many agents were slow to adapt to this market phenomenon in the early part of 2013, leading to overpricing becoming commonplace. Properties stayed on the market for longer as a result – this overpricing phenomenon was impacted further by a lack of stock, which led to agents quoting even higher prices in order to gain instructions over their competitors. Our policy continues to be optimistic, but most importantly realistic, this ensures the lowest possible void rates and at the same time maximising rental yield for our clients. We don’t expect that the recently launched ‘help to buy’ scheme will affect rents in 2014. This is due to a lack of sales stock available to renters/first time buyers, this will be further diminished as buy to let continues to grow in strength – encouraged by low mortgage rates and as confidence continues to grow in London property as a stable and ‘recession proof’ investment. As LSL recently reported for 2013, average rental prices will continue to rise steadily during 2014, but mainly due to tenants vacating properties who took occupation since 2011 or before, with their properties reverting to market value. Year on year increases in market rents are expected to rise equivalent to inflation, so by approximately 2-3%. These fluctuations and insights are the exact reason why reputable agents, like Lauristons, continue to be your best port of call in making the best and most efficient use of your property investment.

Contact

Rampton Baseley 020 7228 5111; ramptonbaseley.com

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www.jacksonsestateagents.com

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CurrellResidential

£450 per week Bedford Road, SW4 • Master bedroom • Good sized second bedroom • Large living space • Private patio area

£345 per week Este Road, SW11 • One double bedroom • Large living room • Separate kitchen • Communal roof terrace

020 3668 1000

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battersea@currell.com

www.currell.com

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www.baylisoldschool.com

NOW AVAILABLE

PRICES FROM ÂŁ399,950

A unique development of 89 new homes 1, 2 & 3 bedrooom apartments and 4 bedroom houses FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT

020 3668 1000 v.farrar@currell.com Currell Residential www.currell.com

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ABSOLUTELY Property

Belmont Rd, SW4 £1,500,000

A delightful four/ five bedroom end of terrace house. The property offers spacious living over four floors including three reception rooms, four/ five bedrooms, fitted kitchen, utility room, family bathroom and separate W.C. Further benefits include a large south east facing garden. Andrews Estate Agents, Battersea 020 7326 8171; andrewsonline.co.uk

Living The DREAM The most luxuriously appointed properties on the market.

Kenilford Road, SW12 £1,495,000 Freehold Lansdowne Road, SW20 £625,000 Leasehold A delightful and beautifully presented two double bedroom, two bathroom apartment, located on the first floor of this stunning stucco fronted Victorian mansion. Positioned off the Ridgeway close to Wimbledon Common, this is a well-proportioned apartment that lends itself to modern living. Ellisons, Raynes Park | 020 8944 9595; ellisons.uk.com

This contemporary double fronted property is conveniently located and has been refurbished to an exacting standard. The home is arranged over three floors and boasts three bedrooms, two with en suite shower rooms and a master suite that occupies the entire second floor. John D Wood & Co., Clapham 020 8673 2854; johndwood.co.uk

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ABSOLUTELY Property

Clitheroe Road, SW9 £499,950 Leasehold

Underhill Road, SE22 £1,100,000 Freehold

Thames View, SW18 From £290 Per Night

This unique one bedroom garden flat boasts a wealth of original features and additional accommodation within the basement. The property offers bright and spacious rooms with high ceilings, a private garden, ornate fireplaces and ample storage.

A stunning semi-detached, four bedroom Edwardian family house for sale, situated on one of the best roads in East Dulwich. The property strikes a stylish combination between beautifully restored original features & contemporary additions & extensions.

This three bedroom/ two bathroom fourth floor flat is located in the prestigious Battersea Reach development. Boasting 117 square metres of grand open-plan living space and beautiful views over the River Thames from the large balconies and rooms.

KFH, Clapham 020 8675 5436; kfh.co.uk

Pedder, East Dulwich 020 8299 3721; pedderproperty.com

Short Let In London 020 8675 8308; ShortLetInLondon.com

Brodrick Road, SW17 Price on application Freehold This stunning interior designed family house offers accommodation and style that most people can only dream of and almost all aspire to. The perfect blend of contemporary within traditional, the layout and size of this house means that all the rooms are great sizes and what’s more, light is in abundance. Sullivan Thomas, Wandsworth 020 8767 7711; sullivanthomas.co.uk-

Spotlight on SW11: Average asking price - £1,146,410Average asking rents - £2,661 pcmAverage property value - £723,570

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Balham Park Road, SW12 | ÂŁ4,250,000 Freehold With six double bedrooms, this outstanding double fronted Victorian family home is situated moments from Wandsworth Common and Bellevue Road. The house offers almost 4,200 sq ft of beautifully proportioned living space and to the rear there is an exquisite 50ft landscaped south facing garden.

Wexford Road, SW12 | ÂŁ3,500,000 Freehold This magnificent semi-detached Victorian house is arranged over four floors and boasts two reception rooms and a beautifully extended kitchen/family room, leading onto a secluded west facing garden. Along with five double bedrooms and a double garage, the house is ideally situated close to Bellevue Road and Wandsworth Common.

rymer-irens.com

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Brandreth Road, SW17 | ÂŁ1,450,000 Freehold Exquisitely presented throughout, this wonderful and extremely well-proportioned five double bedroom, three storey Victorian family house forms part of an attractive residential road, offering exceptional living and entertaining space as well as a lovely south facing garden.

34 Bellevue Road London SW17 7EF

89 Nightingale Lane London SW12 8NX

020 8767 2222

020 8045 8989

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Boundaries Road, SW12 | £550,000 Leasehold

St James’s Drive, SW17 | £535,000 Leasehold

Charming two double bedroom flat with private garden.

Well-presented two bedroom garden flat with own front door.

Trinity Road, SW18 - EPC: E £2,500,000 Freehold

Bellevue Road, SW17 - EPC: D £900,000 Leasehold

rymer-irens.com

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Burntwood Close, SW18 | ÂŁ1,600,000 Freehold Occupying a most enviable position within the close, this immaculately presented five double bedroom semi-detached family house offers bright and spacious accommodation throughout. Situated moments from Wandsworth Common, the house also has a lovely s/w garden and off street parking.

Lyford Road, SW18 | ÂŁ3,300,000 Freehold Imposing, beautifully extended and with an exceptional 70ft s/w facing garden, this six bedroom semi-detached family house offers truly sumptuous living, including an outstanding basement conversion, whilst being conveniently positioned on the doorstep of Wandsworth Common.

34 Bellevue Road London SW17 7EF

89 Nightingale Lane London SW12 8NX

020 8767 2222

020 8045 8989

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ABSOLUTELY Property

MOVING in Nothing’s better than the inside scoop. Local agents give their recommendations... HANGOUT

The relatively new Lawn Bistro is a great favourite of mine, especially the fantastic value ‘Working Lunch Menu’, which is refreshed each week.

Paul Lintott

John D Wood & Co., Wimbledon

020 8944 7172; johndwood.co.uk

INTERIORS

I love Aflair in the Putney Exchange, it’s always full of stylish and unique bits for the whole house. They provide great customer service and are always happy to help!

Nicole

Chamberland Chamberland Residential

020 8704 1313; chamberlandres.co.uk

FACT

KIDS

Lavender Hill, Lavender Sweep and Lavender Gardens are named after the lavender that used to grow here before the industrial revolution when the area was farmland.

The children’s zoo located in the heart of Battersea Park. Find out when the feeding times are so that the children can get involved with feeding the meerkats.

Victoria Farrar Currell, Battersea

Charles Streatfeild Marsh & Parsons, Battersea

020 3668 1000; currell.com

020 7228 9292; marshandparsons.co.uk

TIME OUT

LOCAL STREET

Tranquility Skin Care Centre on Bellevue Road is a perfect haven for a little bit of ‘me’ time. They offer a range of services for you to get buffed, bronzed, preened and pampered.

Angus Irens Rymer Irens, Bellevue Road

020 8767 2222; rymer-irens.com

Bellevue Road is very special, it’s small, has a village feel, overlooks one of the loveliest parks in London and has a good variety of shops, restaurants, bars and... Estate Agents!

Fiona Bourke

Sullivan Thomas, Wandsworth Common

020 8682 3121; sullivanthomas.co.uk

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FOR SALE

Sudbrooke Road

Between the Commons SW12 £1,725,000 | FREEHOLD Meticulous contemporary renovation of this wide semi-detached house with large garden and potential off-street parking has resulted in a stylish yet practical family home, offering a superb alternative to the typical top-heavy Victorian terraces in the area. Its quiet tree-lined location is one of the best-kept secrets Between the Commons and is close to good schools, fashionable Northcote Road and Clapham South tube. EPC - D • Semi-Detached with Side Access • Front Garden • Potential Off-Street Parking • Wide Entrance Hall • Front Reception • Kitchen/Dining/Family Room

• Utility Room • Cloakroom/WC • 5 Bedrooms • 2 Bathrooms/WCs • 49’ x 22’ Garden • 2017 SQ.FT/187.4 SQ.M

EXCLUSIVE, HD FILMS FOR EVERY PROPERTY john-thorogood.co.uk

020 7228 7474 info@john-thorogood.co.uk

@JTEstateAgents |140 Northcote Road SW11 6QZ

I N N O VA T I O N

SINCE 1991 INTEGRITY

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FOR SALE

Alderbrook Road Nightingale Triangle SW12 £1,650,000 | FREEHOLD A wide and imposing 3-storey Victorian house with sunny southwest-facing garden, a wealth of original features and great scope for extension into loft, side return and basement. Very close to Clapham South tube, Balham mainline, the edge of Clapham Common and excellent schools. EPC - E

• Wide Hall • Drawing Room • Dining Room • Kitchen/Breakfast Room • Cellar • Cloakroom/WC

• West-facing Garden • 5 Bedrooms • 3 Bath/Shower Rooms • Unconverted Loft • 2581 SQ.FT/ 238 SQ.M + eaves

FOR SALE

Holmside Road Between The Commons SW12 £1,275,000 | FREEHOLD This meticulously renovated, semi-detached house (c.2000 square feet all in) has a contemporary ﬁnish plus the rare advantages of a side garage and a 35’ SW-facing garden. It has superb living/entertaining space courtesy of a wonderfully designed kitchen extension, wide hall and smart double reception room. Close to Clapham Common West Side, Clapham South’s tube line to The City/West End and good schools. EPC - D.

• Garage • Shared Driveway • Side Access • Wide Hall • Double Reception Room • Kitchen / Breakfast Room

• Cloakroom/WC • 35’ SW-Facing Garden • 4 Bedrooms • 2 Bath/Shower Room/WCs • 1945 SQ.FT / 180.6 SQ.M (INC Garage/Storage)

EXCLUSIVE, HD FILMS FOR EVERY PROPERTY

@JTEstateAgents

john-thorogood.co.uk | 020 7228 7474 | info@john-thorogood.co.uk | 140 Northcote Road SW11 6QZ

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TO LET

Calbourne Road Nightingale Triangle SW12 £850 | PER WEEK

FEES APPLY

Beautifully renovated and extended 4 bedroom family house, with light, open-plan living areas and south-facing garden, in a lovely residential street convenient for transport and shopping facilities at Balham and Bellevue Road. Moments from Wandsworth Common Station. EPC - D

• Open-plan Double Reception • Extended Kitchen/Family Room • 4 Bedrooms • 2 Baths/Showers • Master Bedroom

• 2 Dressing Rooms • South-Facing Garden • Cellar • 1571 Sq Ft / 146 Sq M • Available Immediately

TO LET

Montholme Road Between The Commons SW11 £1,000 | PER WEEK

FEES APPLY

This exceptional 4/5 bedroom Victorian property (2074 SQ.FT) has been meticulously designed and extended to a ﬁrst-class standard and provides luxury in all areas. Highlights include three contemporary bath/shower rooms, a beautiful kitchen/family room with folding doors to a lovely walled garden. The property is close to fashionable Northcote Road, excellent train/tube links and the highly sought-after state schools, Honeywell and Bolingbroke Academy. EPC - D

• Double Reception Room • Kitchen/Family Room • Wrap-around Kitchen Extension • Walled Garden • Guest WC • Master Bedroom

EXCLUSIVE, HD FILMS FOR EVERY PROPERTY

• Large En-Suite Bath/Shower Room • 4 Double Bedrooms • Study/Bedroom 5 • 2 Further Bath/Shower Room/WCs • Cellar • 2074 SQ.FT/192.6 SQ.M + Storage • Available immediately

@JTEstateAgents I N N O VA T I O N

SINCE 1991 INTEGRITY

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Battersea Reach, SW18

£2030/WEEK

3 BED/2 BATH OVERLOOKING THE RIVER Thames View is in an award-winning prestigious development with onsite amenities like underground parking, gym, Young’s Waterfront pub, patisserie, business centre, lift, concierge.

1, 2 and 3 bedroom units are also located in the Balham and Clapham South areas CONTACT US FOR AVAILABLITY

020 8675 8308www.ShortLetInLondon.com LONDON SHORT LET SOLUTIONS LTD.SUITE 5 | WHITE HILL HOUSE | 53-55 BALHAM HILL, LONDON SW12 9DR N0: 07436662

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Putney High Street, SW15

£2261/WEEK

3 BED/2 BATH Featured on Channel 5’s ‘I Own Britain’s Best Home’, this very unique home oozes luxury, includes two steam rooms and is completed by the spacious outdoor entertaining area.

HIGH QUALITY SHORT LETS 3 WEEKS - 6 MONTHS 100% FULLY FURNISHED ALL BILLS INCLUDED

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Sales

£2,850,000 | Freehold Vardens Road SW11

£2,500,000 | Freehold Rusholme Road SW15

This fabulous Victorian family home is stylishly presented throughout and has wonderful entertaining space.

A superb contemporary house situated on one of Putney's most desirable residential roads.

4 double bedrooms, Study/fifth bedroom, 2 bathrooms, Reception room, Balcony, 66ft garden, EPC: F.

5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 3 reception rooms, Kitchen/breakfast room, South-facing garden, Off-street parking, EPC: D.

Battersea Sales 020 7924 2000 battsales@dng.co.uk

East Putney Sales 020 8788 3000 putneysales@dng.co.uk

£2,000,000 | Freehold Battersea Bridge Road SW11

£1,750,000 | Freehold Sadlers Gate Mews SW15

With a wonderful kitchen/dining room which really provides the 'wow factor', this family home is both attractive and substantial.

This beautifully presented family house is spread over four floors and is located in this smart mews in the heart of West Putney.

5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en-suite), Study/sixth bedroom, Double reception room, Kitchen/dining room, Garden, EPC: D.

4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en-suite), Reception room, Kitchen/ breakfast room, Off-street parking, Balcony, Garden, EPC: B.

Battersea Park Sales 020 7720 8077 battpksales@dng.co.uk

West Putney Sales 020 8785 6666 wputneysales@dng.co.uk

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Sales

douglasandgordon.com

£1,650,000 | Freehold Cromford Road SW18

£1,050,000 | Freehold Heythorp Street SW18

An exceptional 2,108 sq.ft period house finished to a very high standard on this popular residential street.

A stylish family home situated on the ever popular Southfields Grid which has been beautifully looked after by its current owners.

5 double bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms, Cloakroom, 2 reception rooms, Kitchen/dining room, Cellar, West-facing garden, EPC: D.

4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Double reception room, Kitchen/ breakfast room, Garden, EPC: D.

East Putney Sales 020 8788 3000 putneysales@dng.co.uk

Southfields Sales 020 8874 8822 sthfldssales@dng.co.uk

£895,000 | Leasehold Welmar Mews SW4

£625,000 | Share of Freehold Alderbrook Road SW12

A stunning loft style house in this popular development conveniently situated close to Abbeville Road.

This charming flat offers a great blend of modern living and period charm, positioned close to the open spaces of Clapham Common.

2 bedrooms, En-suite shower room, Bathroom, Reception room, Open-plan kitchen, Roof terrace, Off-street parking, EPC: C.

Master bedroom, Further bedroom/study, Bathroom, Reception room, Kitchen, Dining area/conservatory, Decked garden, EPC: D.

Clapham Southside Sales 020 8675 4400 clapsthsales@dng.co.uk

Balham Sales 020 8673 0191 balhamsales@dng.co.uk

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Lettings

£895 per week | Unfurnished Crescent Lane SW4

£876 per week | Unfurnished Rotherwood Road SW15

A wonderful family home arranged over three floors and presented to a high standard throughout.

Situated on a peaceful road in the heart of West Putney, this fantastic house offers spacious accommodation throughout.

5 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Double reception room, Kitchen/breakfast room, Pretty patio garden, EPC: D.

4 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Double reception room, Eat-in kitchen, Cellar, EPC: D.

Clapham Southside Lettings 020 8675 0888 clapsthlets@dng.co.uk

Putney Lettings 020 8788 3333 putneylets@dng.co.uk

£875 per week | Unfurnished Calbourne Road SW12

£875 per week | Unfurnished Salcott Road SW11

A stunning four bedroom family house ideally located just off the popular Northcote Road.

4 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Cloakroom, Reception room, Kitchen/breakfast room, Garden, EPC: D.

4 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Double reception room, Kitchen/breakfast room, Cellar, Garden, EPC: E.

Battersea Lettings 020 7924 2002 battlets@dng.co.uk

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Lettings

douglasandgordon.com

£845 per week | Unfurnished Prince Of Wales Drive SW11

£825 per week | Furnished/Unfurnished Rudloe Road SW12

This stunning apartment is situated in what is considered one of the best mansion blocks on Prince of Wales Drive.

An immaculately presented four double bedroom Victorian family house situated on this quiet residential street in Clapham.

4 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Large double reception room, Kitchen, Balcony, EPC: D.

4 double bedrooms, Family bathroom, Shower room, Double reception room, Modern kitchen/breakfast room, Garden, EPC: E.

Battersea Park Lettings 020 7498 5243 battpklets@dng.co.uk

Clapham Southside Lettings 020 8675 0888 clapsthlets@dng.co.uk

£775 per week | Unfurnished Littleton Street SW18

£669 per week | Unfurnished Lavenham Road SW18

This simply stunning larger than average house offers the perfect family living space.

A spacious and beautifully presented four bedroom family house, positioned on the popular Southfields Grid.

5 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Double reception room, Kitchen/dining/family room, Utility room, Garden, EPC: D.

4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Double reception room, Kitchen, Southfacing garden, EPC: D.

Southfields Lettings 020 8874 8844 sthfldslets@dng.co.uk

Douglas & Gordon will charge an initial one off tenancy agreement fee of £240 per tenancy and an individual tenant reference fee of £45 per tenant. For further details please go to www.dng.co.uk/fees

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TR ACKEDY DELIVER THIS WAY UP

Douglas & Gordon are making a very special Christmas delivery and we need your help Between Saturday 30th November & Thursday 5th December your local Douglas & Gordon office is being transformed into a festive grotto. Please drop by and leave any non-perishable foods, new toys and cash donations for the 18,000 deprived and at risk London children supported by Kids Company. If you can’t make it to our offices, don’t worry – on Thursday 5th December our merry team will also be calling door-to-door. So please gather what you can and help us make this Christmas truly first class.

douglasandgordon.com

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