Abs C&A Feb

ABSOLUTELY

FEBRUARY 2013 £3.95

CITY & ANGEL

CALIFORNIA GIRL

WEST COAST STYLE ON LOCATION IN LA

SHAKEN AND STIRRED

AWARD-WINNING BARTENDER TONY CONIGLIARO

CLUB TROPICANA CARIBBEAN TRAVEL SPECIAL

DATE NIGHT

THE BEST HOTEL RESTAURANTS IN TOWN

Some like it hot The Valentine's issue S T Y L I S H . I N T E L L I G E N T. E L E G A N T. A B S O L U T E LY NORTH COVERS FEB 13.indd 1

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ABSOLUTELY

Contents February 2013

Food

03 EDITOR’S LETTER 07 DIARY

17 SUGAR, SUGAR

The art of baking with Pomp de Franc’s Katie Franklin

Local

42 VALENTINE’S LOVE-IN

09 HOTLIST

Where to eat and stay

This month’s highlights

12 ARE YOU BEING SERVED? Mixing it up with Tony Conigliaro

Beard To Tail and Royal India

Beauty

Fashion

20 FOR HIM

The smartest gifts for Valentine’s Day

23 STYLE FINDER

50 RESTAURANT REVIEWS

The latest news, trends and products

35 FEELING GOOD

Travel

63 ST. LUCIA

Paradise found at Jade Mountain

66 ON THE BALL

Gemma Billington brushes up on her backhand in sunny Antigua

Interiors

61 LIGHT UP Absolutely’s favourite candles

The latest health and fitness news

62 INTERIOR INSPIRATIONS

Hot hues at Oskar Pink

54 BOUDOIR BELLE

39 REVERSE DIP DYE

The best trends, designers and local gems Sera Hersham Loftus’ Seductive Interiors

FIND US ONLINE @ WWW.ZEST-MEDIA.COM

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ABSOLUTELY EDITOR-IN-CHIEF EDITOR EDITORIAL ASSISTANT PROPERTY EDITOR FEATURE WRITERS

HARRIET COMPSTON HELEN BARON FLORA HUGHES-ONSLOW LUCIE PEARCE DANIEL AGNEW GARETH FITZGERALD

ART DIRECTOR

RAY SEARLE

SENIOR DESIGNER

STEWART HYDE

MIDWEIGHT DESIGNER

GEMMA ISTEED

DESIGNERS

ANDREW MAVIN MATHEW JOHN ANA OSPINA

JUNIOR DESIGNER PRODUCTION CONTROLLER PRODUCTION ASSISTANT PHOTOGRAPHERS

EDWARD TAYLOR CHRISTINE MANN LAUREN GILES GEORGE RAMSAY RICHARD CLARK

ADVERTISING MANAGER PROPERTY DIRECTOR

Perspective

Inspiration Unveiled Perspective

Inspiration Unveiled

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE FINANCE DIRECTOR MARKETING MANAGER DIRECTOR MANAGING DIRECTOR

DAVID ALLARD ANDY ELMER TOLGA SAYLAN ALEXANDRA HVID JESSICA BATTEN GREG HUGHES SHERIF SHALTOUT

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Editor’s Letter “L

ove conquers all things; let us give in to love.”

Such is the advice of the great Roman poet Virgil, and it’s an apposite sentiment this month, as we present to you a Valentine’s issue packed with irresistible indulgence. We’re giving in to love – or at least to the things we love, among them some inspired ideas for Valentine’s Day itself.

If there’s one thing that always makes me feel indulgent, it’s a stay in a favourite neighbourhood hostelry. My particular obsession right now is the South Place Hotel in Moorgate; the perfect place for a cocktail pit-stop, the hotel also offers amazing weekender packages that make it all the more tempting to sleep over if you have one too many – or just want to enjoy some luxe leisure-time right on your doorstep. Turn to page 42 to see our pick of the top three local hotel restaurants.

If you’re looking to lay your hat somewhere a little further afield, you might appreciate this month’s travel special. As winter peaks, we’d all be forgiven for pressing the ‘confirm booking’ button and jetting off on holiday to a far and distant land.

Our Caribbean round-up on page 62 is sure to tick the romance box – and begs the question, which is your Caribbean island of choice?

Katie Franklin is a lady I’ve wanted to profile for some time now (page 17). A master in the dual arts of baking and cake decorating, and the favoured choice (under her company name, the Pomp de Franc Cake Society) of the fashion world, Franklin has whipped up sublime and theatrical creations for designers and brands including Meadham Kirchoff, Fred Butler, Lanvin, Mulberry, Henry Holland and Hermione de Paula (to name but a few). The great and the good are drawn to Franklin’s whimsical playfulness, her inventiveness – and her serious devotion to her craft. For my part, it’s always good to see local artisans going against the grain, reviving traditional skills and trumping the competition with their inspired creations.

Enjoy February...

A note on...

HACKNEY NEW SCHOOL This month I was pleased to hear that a site has been found for Hackney New School. This pioneering educational initiative was started by a bunch of local residents, parents and businesspeople, and is set to offer a mainstream secondary education with a difference – an increased focus on musical training and a reorganisation of the school day to enhance students’ concentration and confidence. The school, which will open in September, is to be located at Downham Way, N1, and is currently accepting applications for Year 7 entry. An inspiring venture, I wish them every success. hackneynewschool.org

Helen Baron, Editor

On the cover City & Angel: Lickerish/ Iakovos Kalaitzakis East: Lickerish

EMAIL: HELEN.BARON@ZEST-MEDIA.COM FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @ABSOLUTELY_MAGS FACEBOOK ‘ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES’

’s

Editor

# Lady in Red

It being February, we’re in the mood for love – and for red, the most passionate of hues. Red is usually an occasional addition to a wardrobe, and often has a vintage flavour, but this vermillion number from Collette Dinnigan is completely of the moment. Lest it seem too girly, I have toughened the look with classic Honeycup black boots from Rupert Sanderson and a Rag and Bone leather jacket.

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Pick

22/01/2013 15:07

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DEATH: A SELF PORTRAIT Wellcome Collection THROUGHOUT FEBRUARY EUSTON SQUARE

This exhibition showcases some 300 works devoted to the iconography of death and the myriad (and often contradictory) attitudes we hold towards it. Assembled by Richard Harris, a former antique print dealer based in Chicago, the collection includes rare prints by Rembrandt, Dürer and Goya displayed alongside anatomical drawings, war art and antique metamorphic postcards; human remains are juxtaposed with Renaissance vanitas paintings and 20thcentury installations celebrating Mexico’s Day of the Dead. From a group of ancient Incan skulls to a spectacular chandelier made of 3,000 plaster-cast bones (by British artist Jodie Carey), this singular exhibition – by turns disturbing, macabre and moving – shines a light on our enduring desire to make peace with death.

183 Euston Road, NW1; wellcomecollection.org

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DANCING AROUND DUCHAMP ZEBRA GALLERY, BARBICAN FROM 14 FEBRUARY BARBICAN

JAMES BARTOSIK

A major season exploring the work of Marcel Duchamp, his precursors, collaborators and the artists he influenced across music, dance, theatre, film and art starts with Théâtre de la Ville – Paris Rhinocéros. Also starting in February is The Bride and the Bachelors: Duchamp with Cage, Cunningham, Rauschenberg and Johns; an art exhibition focusing on Duchamp ’s American legacy, tracing his relationship to four great modern masters – composer, John Cage, choreographer, Merce Cunningham, and visual artists Robert Rauschenberg and Jasper Johns.

Silk Street, EC2; barbican.org.uk

VILLAGERS

VILLAGE UNDERGROUND 20 FEBRUARY

LIVERPOOL STREET To celebrate the release of their new album {Awayland}, released last month, Villagers will be returning to the UK for headline shows following their support slots for Grizzly Bear in October. Their debut album Becoming a Jackal was released in 2010 and was shortlisted for both the Mercury Prize and the Choice Music Prize.

54 Holywell Lane, EC2; villageunderground.co.uk; wearevillagers.com

SADIE AND THE HOTHEADS UNION CHAPEL 17 FEBRUARY

HIGHBURY & ISLINGTON

Downton Abbey star and Hollywood actress, Elizabeth McGovern takes up lead vocal duties with her hotly-tipped band Sadie and the Hotheads, as they head out on a headlining UK tour.

Described intriguingly as beautiful, lyrical, gorgeous, honest, and unpretentious, McGovern’s unique soaring voice, teamed up with the Hotheads, the multifaceted Nelson Brothers, and an array of world-class musicians, is altogether finely-tuned rootsy pop at its best.

Compton Avenue, N1; unionchapel.org.uk

THE SILENCE OF MISS SCARLET Proud cabaret city FRIDAY NIGHTS

MONUMENT On Friday Nights, Proud presents its murder mystery evening, calling all budding detectives forward after the murder of Miss Scarlett. An experiential dining show which makes the most of the new supper club menu, set within the authentic environs of a 1920s speakeasy, the evening includes the best in burlesque and cabaret entertainment.

1 Mark Lane, EC3; proudcabaret.com

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ULRICH SCHNUASS THE WAITING ROOM 1 & 2 FEBRUARY

STOKE NEWINGTON Last month saw German born electronic artist Ulrich Schnauss release his long-awaited new album, A Long Way To Fall. To celebrate the release of the new album Inverted Audio, Electronic Explorations present two official album launch parties with Schnauss performing two live audio-visual shows with visual artist Nat Urazmetova, as well as DJing atmospheric microfunk and autonomic drum and bass.

175 Stoke Newington High Street, N16; waitingroomn16.com

GOURMET BURGER KITCHEN N1 CENTRE THROUGHOUT FEBRUARY

ANGEL Big hitters at the best burger joint in town are the ever popular Cheese and Bacon, the Kiwiburger and the newest combo – the Taxidriver. There’s also the option to build your own with your favourite extras.

Flippin’ good news that GBK’s latest outpost will be serving up for good at the N1 Centre.

21 Parkfield Street, N1; n1islington.com

TATYANA

BARBICAN UNTIL 9 FEBRUARY

BARBICAN World-renowned Brazilian choreographer Deborah Colker returns to London with a thrilling production inspired by Pushkin’s Eugene Onegin. Tatyana explores themes of passion, rejection, lust and love, set to an eclectic soundtrack of contemporary music combined with Rachmaninov, Tchaikovsky and Prokofiev. Colker was the first female director to work with Cirque du Soleil. Her groundbreaking work continues to enthral audiences all over the world.

Silk Street, EC2; barbican.org.uk

TAKE ANOTHER LOOK MUSEUM OF LONDON THROUGHOUT FEBRUARY

DOCKLANDS WEST INDIA KEY People from the African diaspora living and working in Britain in the late 18th and early 19th centuries provide the focus for this exhibition. Take Another Look features prints by artists including Thomas Rowlandson and George Cruikshank, alongside newspaper cuttings dating from 1780 to 1833. The show is as striking for the light it sheds on Black Britons in unexpected roles as for its piercing examination of the the social and cultural attitudes during the period spanning the abolition of slavery.

No. 1 Warehouse, West India Quay, E14; museumoflondon.org.uk

WHY DON’T YOU?

Sesame’s origami workshops are held monthly at the Queen of Hoxton and are run by Sam Tsang who has been folding origami since forever. After setting up workshops in 2002, Sam’s website grew to include a fully-fledged origami flower shop, not to mention his commercial commissions which include Nokia, Dermalogica and Links of London. Join him on 12th February, in the WigWamBam, for an evening of folding (and we don’t mean you’re ironing).

Learn how to make a 3D heart or a tulip bouquet for your loved one.

1 Curtain Road, EC2; thequeenofhoxton.com OLD STREET 9

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CULTURE LONDON FASHION WEEK

This month we’re championing Simone Rocha. Based in East London, Rocha (a Fashion East alumnus) won the AW13 season’s Newgen catwalk sponsorship, and will premiere her first runway show during London Fashion Week. Simone is John Rocha’s daughter and is well-loved by a profusion of high profile celebs, including Lady Gaga and Alexa Chung. simonerocha.com

FILM I GIVE IT A YEAR Starring Finsbury Park-born Minnie Driver and North Londoner Stephen Merchant, this movie details the trials and tribulations of a pair of newlyweds. Released 8 February.

DRINK

North Londoner Gary Halkyard is bringing his passion for Italy to the capital with his new premium aperitivo – a bitter-orange and rhubarb-infused spirit which makes a great alternative to Aperol. Traditionally combined with Prosecco, Sprizzato can be drunk as a spritz or added to a variety of cocktails, from Bellinis to Martinis. We feel a toast coming on. £15; zanotto.com

EAT

HOT LIST

THIS MONTH’S HIGHLIGHTS

If you’re planning on buying your sweetheart something sweet this Valentine’s Day, don’t skimp.

Paul A Young, the only artisan chocolatier in London, develops original, experimental and daring (although always balanced) flavour combos that are sure to impress. Prices start at £42, 33 Camden Passage, N1; paulayoung.co.uk

EXHIBITION London Underground: Poster Art 150

Since its first graphic poster commission in 1908, London Underground has developed a reputation for commissioning outstanding art and design, becoming a pioneering patron of poster art. From this month, the London Transport Museum’s Poster Art 150 exhibition will showcase 150 of the best designs down the decades and also offer a rare chance to view letterpress posters from the late nineteenth century.

From 15 February; ltmuseum.co.uk

MUSIC

Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds release their 15th studio album Push The Sky Away. The usual mythical references are present, while seaside motifs and Cave’s obsession with the internet thread their way through the songs. Produced by Nick Launay and recorded at a 19th century mansion in the south of France, we can’t wait to hear it. Released 18 February.

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The

Hottest New Beauty Parlour in Town Boudoir Beauty Parlour is a premier, unique beauty boutique that stands out from the ordinary by providing an extensive range of beauty services in a luxurious, pampering environment.

As part of our Valentine Special, we’ve put together a little something for you to enjoy at a discounted price.

We go that extra step to offer the latest treatments designed to ensure you relax, and leave you feeling uplifted (as well as simply gorgeous).

Find all you need to look good in one delectable space; from makeup lessons, manicures and pedicures, facials to our popular Boudoir Lashes eyelash extensions. Our parlour is the perfect place to go for an indulgent and rejuvenating experience.

Makeup Application & Mini Mani – £45 Mascara Effect Eyelash Extensions & Makeup Application – £99 Volume Effect Eyelash Extensions, Makeup Application & Mini Mani – £149 For our opening, we will be offering all treatments up to 50% off the normal price throughout the month of February.

We are located just off Redchurch Street in Shoreditch.



www.boudoirlashes.co.uk 1a Turville St, E2 7HX 0207 739 5462 M: 07957567181 t @boudoirparlour / @boudoirlashes e:asma@boudoirlashes.co.uk * All treatments and packages are subject to terms and conditions; please check at the time of booking.

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22/01/2013 15:46

THE

MASTER OF

MARGARITA Helen Baron speaks to mixology maestro Tony Conigliaro about the art of bespoke cocktail-making

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T

ony Conigliaro has been busy. In 2012, he made it onto ES Magazine’s ‘1,000 Most Influential’ list, and he’s been on my radar for some time: a bartender of high repute who became an expert in his field long before the word ‘mixologist’ was part of our everyday vocabulary.

Conigliaro’s dedication to his art has made him a local legend, with his dinky drinking den at 69 Colebrooke Row – often referred to as the ‘Bar with No Name’ – drawing appreciative tipplers from far and wide. They flock to sample Conigliaro’s unique cocktail creations; as a pioneer of molecular mixology, Conigliaro is a tastemaker in the purest sense, continually testing and redefining the limits of the drinking experience.

In the Evening Standard’s list, Conigliaro sat alongside Radio 1 breakfast show DJ Nick Grimshaw, founder of the Dalston-based Wah Nails empire Alex Brownsell and the fast-rising female chef Florence Knight (of Polpo and Polpetto restaurants) – though to suggest that Conigliaro’s ascent has been sudden would be stretching the truth. In 2009, Conigliaro was named the International Bartender of the Year at the prestigious Tales of the Cocktail Awards in New Orleans; the following year, 69 Colebrooke Row won the Independent newspaper’s Food Monthly award. Not long ago, the New York Times named Conigliaro the ‘number 1 Bradsell protégé’, referencing the renowned bartender

Dick Bradsell, and barely a month goes by without some media outlet or another labelling him ‘one of mixology’s global poster boys’. Not that Conigliaro seems the type to court the whimsical affections of the press: in person, he’s quiet, more retiring than I had imagined. When I meet him in his ‘lab’, housed in a former Pink Floyd recording studio a few roads from Colebrooke Row, there’s a distinct impression that all the attention bewilders him somewhat – but for all his modesty, the maestro is clearly savvy.

Conigliaro’s path to his singular brand of molecular mixology was accidental. Though his respect for it is great, he professes to have no real knowledge of chemistry.

‘Mixologists are like magpies; we take ideas from different things,’ he says. ‘We can consult chemists if there’s a component to what we’re doing that we don’t understand.’

In fact, Conigliaro’s first job was as a ‘regular’ bartender. He’d finished art school and needed to fund his painting studio. It was only later that he began to fuse his flair for artistic invention with a passion for flavour.

Acclaim soon followed.

I press him on the many accolades – because despite his modesty, publicity is his bread and butter. ‘Most definitely,’ he concedes, ‘winning awards is good in that sense; getting people down to the bar.’ So, how important was it to him to set up 69 Colebrooke Row? ‘Extremely; the lab was originally above the bar and the bar was the right size – I’d fallen in love with the bars in Tokyo which are small and intimate. I like the dynamic of the

relationship with the customer in a smaller bar, and it allowed us to keep an eye on the number and quality of the drinks.’ The lab (or ‘Drinks Factory’) has since moved, because ‘We outgrew the space. I have more staff and a research team now, developing bespoke ingredients for the bar.’

It sounds exciting, but Conigliaro is understandably tight-lipped about the workings of the lab or his approach to coming up with new concoctions.

‘It depends what we’re working on,’ he says.

‘Inspiration can come from a concept, a film,

Masterclass

• FEBRUARY 9- CHAMPAGNE COCKTAILS MASTERCLASS • FEBRUARY 23 - GIN BASED COCKTAILS MASTERCLASS with Beefeater24 69 Colebrooke Row, N1; 69colebrookerow.com

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Sicilian Sour 2006

a pair of flavours we’ve discovered work well together – it’s more about how an ingredient suits its purpose.’ As for the current obsession with ‘vintage’ flavours, all he’ll say is, ‘That word is part of a cocktail language and references within that language are always going to recur. It’s the same with the language of cuisine.’

Conigliaro’s considered approach has borne rich fruit, and he now has fingers in various pies.

He consults for events and has created the cocktail menu for Clerkenwell’s Zetter Townhouse, while his most recent venture was the opening of BarleCoq in Paris. Of the Gallic outpost, he says, ‘I’ve known Thierry Daniel for a long time.

I was keen to do something outside of London so we could expand our horizons and learn about new flavours and the French palate. An amazing cocktail scene is starting now in Paris.’

Of course, when I ask where else he’d like to work, there are too many cities to mention, though he concludes that he’d like to end up in the Caribbean. In any case, he’s not short on world bar knowledge. Dry Martini and 41° in Barcelona get his seal of approval, as does Tokyo’s Star Bar. Booker and Dax is his favoured destination when in New York.

‘I love what [Booker and Dax] founder Dave Arnold is doing; his example will surely affect what happens with the cocktail scene in the States.’

I ask him about New Orleans – somewhere I’ve always wanted to go – and of course, he’s in the know.

‘Go and see Chris Hannah at French 75 at Arnaud’s restaurant, or Chris Macmillan at the Renaissance Hotel.’

He proceeds to furnish me with more useful tips and I’m left to wonder if there’s not a sophomore book in the making.

Conigliaro’s debut tome, named simply Drinks, was published towards the end of last year and includes a foreword from fellow experimentalist Heston Blumenthal – who refers to Conigliaro as ‘revolutionary’. High praise indeed from the master of molecular gastronomy, and richly deserved. The book is as beautifully designed as one of Conigliaro’s cocktails, and is sure to become the standard text for the modern mixologist.

When it comes to the future, Conigliaro is playing his cards close to his chest, which means we’ll have to keep an eye on 69 Colebrooke Row (and Conigliaro’s popular blog, The Drinks Factory) to find out what’s new. Another option is to head down for one of his masterclasses behind the bar... because how often do you find the best in the world offering lessons right on your doorstep?

Drinks by Tony Conigliaro is published by Ebury Press, £25. Photography: Addie Chinn

“In 1998, my grandmother’s recipe book was unearthed. Its discovery revealed an incredible series of recipes for homemade liqueurs such as limoncello, crème de cacao and amaretto. The amaretto recipe leapt out at me, comprised as it was of entirely natural ingredients. I loved the idea of using my grandmother’s recipe in a cocktail that would be an honour both to her and to my family’s Sicilian history.

My abiding memories of being a child in Sicily, other than the freedom of running around in the sunshine, are of flavours and scents. To recapture summers past, I called upon almonds, apricots and lemons – a tasty triangle of Italian ingredients native to Sicily. Apricot pits and almond kernels are very similar and amaretto can be made from both. Amaretto has a bitter, as well as a sweet, note that is often overlooked, and this is complemented by the Angostura bitters. Using ingredients that inspire a different and drier tonality to amaretto, the Sicilian Sour is a delicious twist on a wellknown drink.”

INGREDIENTS 35ml amaretto 15ml apricot liqueur 25ml fresh lemon juice 25ml egg white 5ml sugar syrup Dash of Angostura bitters 115g/4oz dried organic apricots, finely cut 1 tbsp minced fresh ginger root 350g/12oz fresh cranberries 135ml/4½fl oz/generous ½ cup brown rice malt syrup (or 110g/3¾oz/½ cup cane sugar) 1 Lemon slice, to garnish (optional). Add all ingredients except the bitters and lemon slice to a cocktail tin.

2 Dry-shake, then shake over cubed ice.

Strain into a large, chilled coupette.

3 Garnish with a dash of bitters and a lemon slice on the edge of the glass.

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21/01/2013 12:18

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28/04/2011 12:26

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The sweet life

Romy van den Broeke speaks to pâtissière Katie Franklin, founder of Pomp de Franc Cake Society... forms of social media, but there are just so many I find it hard to keep up.

Pomp de Franc is just over a year old – tell us the story behind the start-up? Have you always baked?

When I was 10 I made my granny a cake to say thank you after she had given me my first cake book.

That was my first experience with baking. After I graduated I was doing some fashion styling and making cakes for delis on the side.

After about a year I realised I was making more money with the cakes than styling, so I decided to give it my full attention.

What is the most extravagant cake you have had to design and create thus far? And what is the longest amount of time you have had to spend on one design?

I recently made a cake for Jamie Oliver, which aired on his show last November. I had to show him how to pimp up a classic Victoria sponge. I went to town and made a three-tiered Victoria sponge covered in gold leaf glacé pears and gold-dipped cherries.

The longest amount of time was making the giant gingerbread houses for Mulberry’s Bond Street Christmas windows. It took three weeks, but it was all worth it.

How did you come up with the name?

Pomp de Franc Cake Society got its name from Luc de Franc, who was Madame de Pompadour’s own private patisserie chef. So elaborate were his creations that they were deemed the only pastries beautiful enough for the stylish mistress of Louis XV and her fashionable guests.

Do you like doing wedding cakes too?

I love doing wedding cakes. This is my favourite type of cake to do as it is always so appreciated and I love working with other people’s ideas and colour schemes to come up with some different and unique.

Do you think having an artistic background helps with the creative process?

Definitely! I studied woven textiles at university and although very removed from baking, the detailed process lends itself very well to the aesthetics of the cakes.

There is something fascinating about such beautiful crafted consumables; how are you inspired day to day?

Anything from seeing a beautifully constructed dress in a magazine to visiting art galleries inspires me. Generally I am inspired by bright, colourful, structural pieces of art, and then I try and think of ways of making them edible.

Yes. I studied fashion and textile design at university, and I was determined not to lose this connection when I decided to concentrate on cakes. My ultimate goal is to be invited to sit on the front row of a high end fashion show because of my cakes. So far I have been invited to stand in a corner at the back. I clearly still have some way to go.

Pomp de Franc has garnered a real fashion and celebrity following (with the likes of Vogue and Stella McCartney on your client list). Is this something you envisaged when you formed the company?

How do you market your business?

So far it has been word of mouth, and I have been lucky enough to have had a few articles published, which has helped enormously. I am trying my hardest to use all the different

Do you have a sweet tooth?

Yes I do, I could eat sweet things all day long. I wish I didn’t as I still find it hard not to eat the cakes I make, and being surrounded by them daily makes it a constant struggle.

What does the future hold for Pomp de Franc?

At the moment my cakes are available to any one who wants one, through pre-ordering through email. I want them to be more accessible to anyone by having a shop with a little cafe and maybe an art gallery. I also want to start making canapés and other treats with the same sort of aesthetic. pompdefranc.co.uk 17

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22/01/2013 18:41

www.zero-seven.co.uk

TURN HEADS TOOTH WHITENING ANTI - WRINKLE BOTOX CHEMICAL SKIN PEEL DERMAL FILLER DENTAL IMPLANTS SAME DAY VENEERS

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7 St. John Street, Clerkenwell London, EC1M 4AA

T: 020 7253 7667 E: corporate@zero-seven.co.uk

24/10/2012 11:40

Absolutely

FASHION

1 2 3 PETER SOM

12

4

11 8

Very Berry

Cherry, plum and berry hues are ideal warming shades for February

6

9

5

8 10

7 1. KENZO Metallic jacquard dress, £550; brownsfashion.com. 2. DIANE VON FURSTENBERG Suede belt, £166; matchesfashion.com. 3. CHRISTOPHER KANE Crombie Techno-crepe leopard printed trousers, £800; matchesfashion.com. 4. ALEXANDER MCQUEEN Floral jacquard dress, £1,025; brownsfashion.com.

5. ROKSANDA ILINCIC Embellished Duchess Silk Dress, £3,570; brownsfashion.com. Zagliani 6. Python clutch bag, £616; zagliani.it. 7. CHLOE Chunky Sweater, £575; matchesfashion.com. 8. ALEXANDER WANG Rocco Bag, £725; liberty.co.uk.

9. SEMI COUTURE Leather satchel, £341; farfetch.com. 10. OPENING CEREMONY Babydoll coat, £620; matchesfashion.com.

11. GIVENCHY Alpaca-knit dress, £1,445; matchesfashion.com. 12. SOPHIE HULME Leather bag, £550; matchesfashion.com.

19

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22/01/2013 14:10

Absolutely

FASHION SPANISH STEPS CANARY WHARF

Nowhere is spring-summer menswear looking sharper than at Massimo Dutti.

The Spanish super-brand is a master of fine tailoring and outerwear; what’s more, it manages to stay completely current without pandering to fads and trends – which is what true style is all about. Fine threads indeed.

Cabot Place West, E14; massimodutti.com

THE WANTED

LIVERPOOL STREET

Come date night, the modern man needs more than just a sleek suit and sharp shoes, especially if he’s staying away from home. Don’t insult budding bedmates by rocking up to meet them with a rucksack on your shoulder; this chic Dulles sport bag by WANT: Les Essentiels de la Vie is far more appropriate. £249.50, 59 Rivington Street, EC2; start-london.com

WATCH TOWER BARBICAN

Head down to Clerkenwell’s Antique Watch Company to choose from a huge collection of restored vintage timepieces by brands including Longines, Omega and Jaeger le Coultre. Prices range from a few hundred pounds to several thousand – but if your partner values subtle style, it’s a superb investment.

19 Clerkenwell Road, EC1; antiquewatchcouk.com

FOR HIM

All the style and grooming news you need for Valentine’s Day and beyond

RAZOR LOVE

LIVERPOOL STREET

The best barbershop in London continues to grow and prosper, recently opening an elegant grooming emporium within the Spitalfields outpost of gent’s outfitter Hackett. Sartorial inspiration and a close shave under one roof?

Sounds like a sure-fire hit.

75-77 Brushfield Street, E1; murdocklondon.com

WHISKY MIST HAMPSTEAD

Whether you’re flying solo this Valentine’s Day or have plans with someone special, a tumbler of Scotland’s finest makes a lip-smacking nightcap. Distillers of premium whiskies, Auchentoshan produce a range of triple-distilled single malts that are as delectable as they are refined – a sophisticated way to end the evening.

29 Heath Street, NW3; jeroboams.co.uk 20

FEB_MEN'S_FASHION_v2.indd 20

22/01/2013 17:08

Concept Kitchens

The Tile Box

40 Offord Road Islington N1 020 7700 1555

40 Offord Road, Islington N1 020 7700 1444

www.conceptkitchensislington.co.uk

www.thetilebox.co.uk

Bath Sorts 38 Offord Road Islington N1 020 7700 1333

www.bathsorts.co.uk

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21/01/2013 27/04/2011 12:17 16:47

Griffi Full Page Absolutely Magazine_Layout 1 22/01/2013 09:31 Page 1

agazine_Layout 1 22/01/2013 09:31 Page 1

TM

TM

KITCHEN CONCEPT

by Roy Griffiths

by Roy Griffiths KITCHEN CONCEPT

Photo: An original ‘Roy G r i ff i t h s ’ r a i s e d a n d fielded blue dresser.

As beautiful today as when it was designed in 1979. is the new retailing concept from Roy Griffiths, who has been trading

Photo: An original ‘Roy G r i ff i t h s ’ r a i s e d a n d fielded blue dresser.

As beautiful today as when it was designed in 1979.

GriffiTM under many names since the 1970s. Roy has successfully retailed furniture since his early days in the Kings Road with his ‘Painted Furniture For who the last decades he under has worked develop his brands: ‘Simple Kitchens’, e new retailing concept from RoyShop’.

Griffiths, has 3been trading many hard namestosince ‘Harvey Jones since Kitchens’ and days mostin recently ‘Green and Fay oy has successfully retailed furniture his early the Kings Road with hisInteriors’.

‘Painted hop’. For the last 3 decades he has worked hard to develop his brands: ‘Simple Kitchens’, GriffiTM by Roy and Griffiths is a signature stamp of excellence, quality and design and is now proudly placed on es Kitchens’ and most recently ‘Green Fay Interiors’. all Roy Griffiths furniture. It is a mark of authenticity to the trademark and recognition of the man himself. oy Griffiths is a signature stamp of excellence, quality and design and is now proudly placed on is a designer artist of extraordinary pedigree; he trained ths furniture. It is a markRoy of authenticity to and the trademark and recognition of the man himself.as an artist at the Slade under Keith Vaughn and Derek Jarman. Roy worked restoring antiques in New York and then in women’s fashion before he fell in love he with designing and constructing furniture. igner and artist of extraordinary pedigree; trained as an artist at the Slade under Keith Derek Jarman. Roy worked restoring antiques in New York and then in women’s fashion after manyfurniture. years, Roy has decided to put his name back on the business as both a legacy and in love with designing Now and constructing reminder to his family of his love of art, style, fashion and making beautiful furniture. many years, Roy has decided to put his name back on the business as both a legacy and GriffiTM Kitchen by Roy Griffiths, please call one of his wonderful own an Original his family of his love ofFor art,your style,chance fashiontoand making beautiful furniture. stores for further help: ance to own an Original GriffiTM Kitchen by Roy Griffiths, please call one of his wonderful 01932 754903 Griffi at Kitchens Upon Thames, Sunbury on Thames, Surrey ther help: Griffi at The Green and Fay building, Islington, North London 01932 Winchester, 754903 Griffi at Kitchens Upon Thames, Sunbury on Thames, Surrey Kitchens, Griffi at Rivendell Hampshire Griffi at The Green and Fay building, Islington, North London

0207 7040455

Griffi at Rivendell Kitchens, Winchester, Hampshire

01962 850300

0207 7040455

01962 850300

Photo: An original ‘Roy Griffiths’ raised and fielded blue dresser.

As beautiful today as when it was designed in1979.

GriffiTM is the new retailing concept from Roy Griffiths, who has been trading under many names since the 1970s. Roy has successfully retailed furniture since his early days in the Kings Road with his ‘Painted Furniture Shop’. For the last 3 decades he has worked hard to develop his brands: ‘Simple Kitchens’, ‘Harvey Jones Kitchens’ and most recently ‘Green and Fay Interiors’.

For your chance to own an Original GriffiTM Kitchen by Roy Griffiths, please call one of his wonderful stores for further help:

Griffi.FINAL.indd 2

GriffiTM by Roy Griffiths is a signature stamp of excellence, quality and design and is now proudly placed on all Roy Griffiths furniture.

It is a mark of authenticity to the trademark and recognition of the man himself. Roy is a designer and artist of extraordinary pedigree; he trained as an artist at the Slade under Keith Vaughn and Derek Jarman. Roy

worked restoring antiques in New York and then in women’s fashion before he fell in love with designing and constructing furniture. Now after many years, Roy has decided to put his name back on the business as both a legacy and reminder to his family of his love of art, style, fashion and making beautiful furniture.

Griffi at The Green and Fay building, Islington, North London, N1 2NR T: 0207 7040455 Griffi at Kitchens Upon Thames, Sunbury on Thames, Middlesex, TW16 6AF T: 01932 754903 Griffi at Rivendell Kitchens, Winchester, Hampshire, FO23 9EB T: 01962 850300

22/01/2013 17:21

Absolutely

FASHION

ROSS X BUTE ROSS X BUTE was founded by two stylists (Lindy Ross and Serena Bute) in 1998.

We’re gaga for the current collection of body-skimming drop-waist dresses and tweed skirt suits as well as the cashmere and alpaca cardigans. The collection mixes Scottish heritage design with a contemporary twist. Love, love, love. rossandbute.com

Style Finder The latest news, trends and products...

All things fashion, filtered

ARMLIVERPOOL CANDY STREET

DOUBLE ACT Debenhams has teamed up with Dalston

designer Marios Schwab to create a capsule dress collection celebrating the female form. Taking inspiration from the concept of the femme fatale, the line incorporates Schwab’s signature theatricality with dramatic blacks, deep purples and midnight blue. We love this sequin mini-dress with dramatic floor-length mesh overlay – an ideal frock for a hot date. debenhams.com

Spitalfields-based Ingenue’s signature day dresses are perfect winterwear, and their lookbook features long-sleeved dresses in arresting patterns such as paisley, dogtooth and purple leopard-print. Channelling ‘70s glam, the silhouettes are ultra flattering, super comfy and – importantly – warm.

14 Market Street, E1; ingenuelondon.com

LAP OF LUXURY LIVERPOOL

STREET Barbour’s collaboration with Alice Temperley – Gold Label – really puts the emphasis on luxury.

Beautiful fabrics, fluid lines and hand-finishing bring delicacy to Barbour’s robust, weather-beating products. Fighting the brrr in style.

13 Commercial Street, E1; barbour.com

TOPCalf-length RESORTdresses slit to thigh, gigantic satin bow headbands, chunky necklaces, bold bracelets… it’s all there in Miu Miu’s

Resort 2013 collection. Pairing sophisticated designs with statement accessories is on trend this spring, and muted colours are easily offset by a bold lipstick or vibrant eye shadow. Oriental in style, look East for chic this February. miumiu.com 23

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22/01/2013 17:09

ALL SAINTS DRESS, £136.50; CORALIA LEETS NECKLACE, £553; AVAILABLE AT FENWICK

FEB_LA PHOTO SHOOT.indd 24

22/01/2013 13:01

Lady of the Lake Glamorous west coast fashion on location in Los Angeles Photography by Marc and Paula Kayne Styling by Lindsay Piper

FEB_LA PHOTO SHOOT.indd 25

22/01/2013 13:01

FLANNEL BLACK JACKET, CAMISOLE AND TROUSERS, POA, AVAILABLE AT HARVEY NICHOLS; JEROME C. ROUSSEAU SHOES, £494, AVAILABLE AT OXYGEN BOUTIQUE; SYDNEY EVAN EARRINGS AND BRACELET, POA, AVAILABLE AT HARRODS

FEB_LA PHOTO SHOOT.indd 26

22/01/2013 13:01

ISSA LONDON DRESS, POA, NETA-PORTER; JEROME C. ROUSSEAU SHOES, £466; SYDNEY EVAN EARRINGS, POA, AVAILABLE AT HARRODS; ALEXANDRA DECLARIS SNAKESKIN CLUTCH, £559

FEB_LA PHOTO SHOOT.indd 27

22/01/2013 13:02

FLANNEL TROUSERS, CAMISOLE AND SCARF, POA, AVAILABLE AT HARVEY NICHOLS; A PEACE TREATY BRACELETS, POA, AVAILABLE AT FENWICK; JADA DIAMOND EARRINGS, £840, ASTLEY CLARK; CAMILLA SKOVGAARD SHOES, £133, AVAILABLE AT SELFRIDGES

FEB_LA PHOTO SHOOT.indd 28

22/01/2013 13:02

STYLED BY LINDSAY PIPER (CLOUTIER REMIX AGENCY) PHOTOGRAPHERS: MARC AND PAULA KAYNE PHOTO ASSISTANT: THIANAR GOMIS HAIR AND MAKEUP: HARPER (EXCLUSIVE ARTISTS MANAGEMENT) MODEL: YAYA AT NEXT LOCATION: LOCATION SERVICES PROVIDED

BY TAYRONA FILMS INFO@TAYRONAFILMSINC.COM

JONATHAN SIMKHAI JACKET AND SKIRT, POA, AVAILABLE AT LIBERTY; CAMILLA SKOVGAARD SHOES, £320; SYDNEY EVAN EARRINGS, POA, AVAILABLE AT HARRODS

ALEXANDRA-DECLARIS.COM ALLSAINTS.COM JADA AT ASTLEYCLARKE.COM CORALIA LEETS AND A PEACE TREATY AT FENWICK.CO.UK SYDNEY EVAN AT HARRODS.COM HARVEYNICHOLS.COM JEROMECROUSSEAU.COM JONATHAN SIMKHAI AT LIBERTY.CO.UK NET-A-PORTER.COM JEROME C. ROUSSEAU AT OXYGENBOUTIQUE.COM CAMILLA SKOVGAARD AT SELFRIDGES.COM

FEB_LA PHOTO SHOOT.indd 29

22/01/2013 13:02

STRIP

ST. PAUL’S Let Strip take the stress out of Valentine’s Day preparations with their range of expert (and virtually pain-free) waxes, luxury spray tans, lashes, HD brows and skincare products. Strip’s luxury waxing boutiques even stock chic lingerie - think Stella McCartney and Elle Macpherson Intimates - and offer a ‘Glam Eyes’ service to ensure your peepers dazzle whomever happens to gaze into them. Sure to leave you looking and feeling your best.

18 New Change Passage, One New Change, EC4M; 020 7236 0058; stripwaxbar.com

BOUDOIR BEAUTY PARLOUR

ROYAL INDIA

SMOOTH MOVES

STOKE NEWINGTON Some of us fancy a quiet, romantic night in on Valentine’s Day, so if you can’t treat your loved one at the newly refurbished restaurant, than Royal India are offering the ultimate home dining experience. Take advantage of their home delivery service, serving up classic dishes alongside their signature innovations such as the renowned Royal Sagrana and the notorious Gousht Khata Masala, alongside many more. If you can’t come to Royal India... they will come to you.

47 Stoke Newington Church Street, N16; 020 7249 7094; royaln16.com

Treat your loved one to some beauty booty, a gorgeous gift and a cosy night in

SHOREDITCH HIGH STREET There’s a new beauty parlour in town!

Asma Docrat, the name and creator behind the Boudoir Lashes brand, has brought a little bit of Chelsea to the heart of Shoreditch, offering everything from Asma’s own signature eyelash extensions to makeup lessons by professional international makeup artists.

For the month of February you can get up to 50% off of all treatments, so take a hop, skip and a merry jump down to the salon just off of Redchurch Street.

1a Turville Street, E2; 0207 739 5462; boudoirlashes.co.uk

BLOOM PERFUMERY SPITALFIELDS

SHOREDITCH HIGH STREET Surprise your valentine with a unique gift. Find a bouquet in a bottle or romance in a jar. Perfumes, candles or even luxury body products; here at Bloom our enticing scents are handpicked from only the best independent perfume houses and perfumers.

4 Hanbury street, E1 6QR; 020 7247 6148; bloomperfume.co.uk 30

BEAUTY FEATURE3.indd 30

22/01/2013 20:07

Visit Gary Ingham Salon & Spa and enjoy Aveda’s up to 99% naturally derived* hair colour Aveda hair colour answers all your needs naturally—from full grey coverage to vibrant colour—while leaving hair essentially damage-free, silky and touchable. Our customized hair colouring system offers precisely matched permanent and long lasting deposit-only shades. With up to 99% naturally derived ingredients*— such as patented green tea extract—we allow you to create bespoke and unique hair colour. from plants and non-petrochemical minerals

*

For a free hair consultation book an appointment today

63-67 Heath Street | Hampstead NW3 6UG | 020 7431 0777 Book online at garyingham.com

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22/01/2013 11/01/2013 11:59 19:11

Skin Solutions The Waterhouse Young non-surgical medical aesthetic clinic offers you an holistic approach from the moment you step inside the clinic.

We understand your skin and we appreciate the psychological boost you gain when you have brighter skin and a more youthful appearance.

Treatments include: •

Anti-wrinkle injections

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Hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating to underarms, feet and hands)

•

Dermal Filler injections

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Genuine Dermaroller

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HydraFacial

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Obagi Skin Systems

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Intraceuticals Oxygen Infusions

(non-laser skin resurfacing)

with Boosters •

SkinCeutical Face Peels

•

Thread Vein treatments

•

SkinCeutical and HealGel skincare ranges

Absolutely readers

will receive a complimentary consultation and computerised skin analysis with our aesthetic doctor (worth £100)

Plus

20%

discount

for any treatments booked on the day FEBRUARY CONSULTATIONS ONLY

Call: 020

7486 3849

for a complimentary consultation

www.waterhouseyoung.com21 Devonshire Street, London, W1G 6PBinfo@waterhouseyoung.com@Waterhouseyoung WHY.MOCK UP.V2.2.indd 2

21/01/2013 17:06

Absolutely

BEAUTY FACE LACE Face Lace is a non-fade, non-smudge

range of ready-to-wear applique designs from make-up artist Phyllis Cohen.

After a career working with extravagant characters (including Annie Lennox, Steve Strange and David Bowie), it was while assisting Zandra Rhodes that Cohen was inspired to create Face Lace.

Our favourite is this cheeky burlesque number for come-hither eyes. Peel back, stick on and show off! £13.29; face-lace.com

the

IN OLD TREATMENT: JONES & PAYNE STREET

A finalist in the HJ British Hairdressing Awards (in the Salon of the Year category), Jones and Payne is as cool as they come. Owners Ricky Lee Jones and Stewart Payne ensure their talented team of stylists are clued up about the latest trends (there’s even a tips and trends page on the website), and on my visit I was greeted with a champagne cocktail. Add to that the customisable massage chairs and you have West London luxe in the East End. Ricky has certainly earned his hairdressing stripes, working on Vivienne Westwood and John Rocha shows and drawing celebrity clients including Alison Mosshart, Ellie Goulding and KT Tunstall to his salon. I was stoked to be in such good company – and got a killer cut to boot.

73 Curtain Road, EC2; jonesandpayne.com

3

OF THE BEST COMPLEXIONENHANCERS

Neal’s Yard Remedies’ award-winning Beauty Balm is a multi-purpose cleanser and exfoliant that contains wild rosehip oil, geranium, starflower, hemp and rosemary seed oil to help decongest and enrich the skin. £37; nealsyardremedies.com

Beauty Edit The fine art of staying beautiful...

WAVY GRAVY BAKER STREET

If you’re looking to turn heads this Valentine’s Day, be sure to check out Daniel Galvin’s half price ‘romantic waves’ offer, available until 14 February. For an extra £26 you can upgrade to include a head massage and a Daniel Galvin hair detox treatment – perfect for giving colour a new and glossy lease of life.

58-60 George Street, W1; danielgalvin.com This five-in-one rosewater cleanser effectively decongests and brightens.

The fruit-packed botanical fluids help shed skin cells and boost elasticity, while the PH-balancing formula cleanses, cools and tones. £21; thisworks com

Power Peel from Ole is a professional micro-facial kit from LAbased skin pioneer Ole Henriksen. The three-step treatment includes almond polish for exfoliation, lemon strip to refine, firm and cleanse and a half-hour chamomile mask. £30; feelunique.com

33

FEB_BEAUTY EDIT.indd 33

22/01/2013 19:54

We take the stress out of weekday cooking We deliver a bag full of lovely ingredients & inspiring recipes to your door – so you can enjoy cooking at home For more information visit

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14/01/2013 20:28

Absolutely

BEAUTY

SKI CHIC

LIVERPOOL STREET

For head-turning style on the slopes as well as off, Penfield’s well-judged winterwear will ensure your outfit is as finely honed as your technique.

Insulated jackets, parkas and vests needn’t mean looking like the Michelin Man while you’re perfecting your curve.

Present, 140 Shoreditch High Street, E1; penfield.co.uk

Feeling good The latest health and fitness trends

TEN OUT OF TEN

CHANCERY LANE

TenPilates launches in Hatton Garden this month.

The studio is minutes away from Farringdon, Clerkenwell and Holborn and – at 2,700 square feet – is plenty spacious with loads of natural light. Featuring a main studio, dedicated physical therapy and rehabilitation area, therapeutic and sports massage and fully equipped changing facilities, now there’s no excuse for letting those fitness resolutions wilt and wither away.

36 Hatton Garden, EC1; tenpilates.com

PUKKA CUPPA

STOKE NEWINGTON By now, the detox has become arduous for even the most committed of healthkick fanatics, so a pack of Cleanse & Detox tea from Pukka Teas, which aims to help with complexion and digestion, is a welcome and gentle step in the right direction.

Fresh and Wild, 32-40 Stoke Newington High Street, N16; pukkaherbs.com

BETTER WORLD

HIGHBURY & ISLINGTON

B12 is a natural remedy for tiredness, and delivers a blast of the vitamin along with a reviving chromium and green tea extract. It quickly enters the bloodstream for the ultimate in bioavailability and convenience. £11.95, Holland & Barrett, 212 Upper Street, N1; betteryou.uk.com

Further Afield

Munich’s Bayerischer Hof is one of the oldest hotels in the city and the Blue Spa is the jewel in its crown. A rooftop café, terrace and pool area with commanding views and a state of the art fitness studio are serious plus points, and you can’t visit without sampling the fantastic spa treatment range, devised by Dorissima Organic Alp Spa Rituals. bayerischerhof.de 35

FEB_HEALTH & FITNESS_v2.indd 35

22/01/2013 17:20

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22/10/2012 17:31

22/01/2013 20:30

Page

Absolutely

BEAUTY

Tender Loving Hair Hair just got seductive... Helen Baron discovers hot hues at Oskar Pink

I

t’s February, and I’ve decided to take control of my hair. I’ve been growing out my old style for what feels like forever, and my barnet now has a tendency to look a little flat and dull. I’ve been pretty good on the health and fitness front (so far); now it’s time to give my limp locks a little TLC. And who better to help me supercharge my volume and overhaul my colour than hip hair salon Oskar Pink?

Owner Stavros Constantinou knew he wanted to offer something a little different, something that would counter the somewhat sterile approach of the larger hairdressing chains. Oskar Pink was founded, and has been offering an alternative service in the local area for five years – adding two additional salons along the way (each with its own individual style) and starting what seems likely to become an empire of Constantinou’s own. The hard work was certainly worth it: each salon benefits from a laidback,

contemporary vibe, with features like exposed brickwork (at the Kentish Town branch), cool unisex barber stylings (at the Camden branch) and retro furnishings (at the newest, Mornington Crescent outpost). I visited the latter, where the minimalist interiors are pepped up with jazzy motifs – think old cinema seats and Victorian ceramic white brick tiles. Actual jazz plays in the background, another plus point: I don’t want to be stuck listening to mindless Euro-pop while I’m putting in the hours with my mane.

used to fielding London Fashion Week requests. They use Label M products too, which smell divine.

I opted for a reverse dip-dye; the ombre look turned on its head for 2013 (and already seen at some of the bigname designers’ AW12 shows). I liked the idea of going quite a lot darker but keeping warmth in the roots; block colour, also forecast to be big this year, just doesn’t suit my skin tone. The look is flexible, as you can play around with different hues, paring them down or going for a starker contrast, and it obviously owes something to its precursor – the dying of end-tips in striking shades such as black, purple or neon pastel. Taken to the max, the trend can incorporate hairpieces, plaits

Owner Stavros Constantinou knew he wanted to offer something a little different, something that would counter the sterile approach of the larger hairdressing chains Oskar Pink offers all the usual services, from tints and toners to classic up-dos, and the salon is geared to offer top styling, so you won’t end up with anything brutally bouffant or over the top. The team are adept at blow-drys, too, so you can stop by for a lunchtime or post-work spruce-up. Located a convenient hop from the tube and right next door to the ASOS headquarters, the salon is naturally trend-savvy and

or temporary dyes, and while the look is higher maintenance than original dip-dying (because of the regrowth from the roots), if you stick with semipermanents and subtler shading, it’s not too much hard work. I’m pleased as punch with the results and plan to incorporate a hot oil treatment into subsequent salon trips, so that each visit I’m not only updating tired colour, but keeping my hair in tip-top condition.

MANE ATTRACTION If you’re feeling flirty for Valentine’s Day, glossy tresses are a must and Oskar Pink are offering a 30% off any one service for new customers booking an appointment before 5pm (every day except Saturday).

5 Camden High Street, NW1; oskarpink.co.uk Mornington Crescent 39

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22/01/2013 14:45

Absolutely

BEAUTY

2

1

3

10 9

Winter Skin

4

Arabella Preston’s pick of the best rescue remedies

8 6 7

5

1. Decleor Life Radiance Flash Radiance mask, £29; decleor.co.uk 2. Charlotte & Co Silk Beauty Cocoons, £19.50; charlotteandco.co.uk 3. Sarah Chapman Intense Hydrating Booster, £57; sarahchapman.net 4. Omorovicza Gold Rescue Cream, £107; omorovicza.com 5. Selexir Peace Balm, £99; available at Urban Retreat at Harrods or selexir.com 6. Bobbi Brown, Hydrating Face Cream, £36; bobbibrown.co.uk 7. Dior Prestige, La Creme Souveraine, £230; dior.com 8. Skinceuticals Hydrating B5, £61; eudeloboutique.com 9. Skyn Iceland Arctic Hydrating Balm, £25; marksandspencer.com 10. Anne Semonin Eye Express Radiance Ice Cubes, £48; annesemonin

40

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22/01/2013 14:36

Eat, Stay, Love

Three of the best hotel restaurants in London MALMAISON Though a chain, Malmaison have retained an essential ‘boutiqueness’ throughout their 13 UK outposts.

The London hotel, known as the ‘London Mal’, is of historic importance, housed within an impressive, red-brick Victorian building – formerly nurses’ lodgings – in Charterhouse Square. A deeper, darker colour scheme of reds and plums is employed throughout, lending it a suitably sultry air, and while the 97 standard rooms are more streamlined than luxe, the ‘rock’n’roll’ suites are rather more lavish, offering teak baths, all the technology you could want plus other little luxuries, like same-day laundry. Location is key, here – the hotel is ideally situated in the heart of Clerkenwell, a stone’s throw away from the Barbican and Smithfields Market.

THE BRASSERIE

The subterranean bar and brasserie has long been a foodie favourite (Gizzi Erskine is a fan), taking its cue from the interior stylings of a plush opium den – all velvet cushions and low lighting. It has a resolutely evening-y atmosphere, though the Sunday roast is very popular with locals. Skilled mixologists tend the bar and Johnny Walker is on-hand as the in-house sommelier. Dishes are simple (reinterpreted classic BritishEuropean dishes) but very well executed, and the head chef, John Woodward, is mindful to source produce from the surrounding area. To that end, it’s a discerning restaurant choice for Clerkenwell, whose fine dining options can be surprisingly scant.

18-21 Charterhouse Square, EC1; malmaison.com BARBICAN

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DORSET SQUARE A jewel in the crown of the prestigious Firmdale Hotel collection, this impressive Regency townhouse has 38 bedrooms individually designed by interiors authority Kit Kemp, many of which face onto the leafy private garden square. It stands on the site of Thomas Lord’s first cricket ground – the cricket motifs that pop up throughout the hotel are a nod to this – and is a welcome addition to the area, which is better known for chintzy, outdated hotels.

This one is boutique in every sense; soft, luxe furnishings, high four-poster beds, marble bathrooms with sleek chrome fittings and oversized shower heads – plus the superb mini-bar (a Firmdale favourite), stocked with all manner of upmarket goodies (including Grown-up Chocolate Company confectionery - yum).

THE POTTING SHED BAR AND RESTAURANT

The Potting Shed playfully extends the English ambiance of the wider hotel in

both name and fare. An English brasserie dedicated to using only locally sourced, seasonal produce, the menu nonetheless offers a diverse range of mouthwatering dishes that will please veggies and carnivores alike. Warmly lit and featuring a quirky Martha Freud light installation along one wall, the food is fab and the vibe is both distinctly discreet and informally elegant.

Very English indeed.

39-40 Dorset Square, NW1; firmdalehotels.com BAKER STREET

SOUTH PLACE A five-star hostelry with the stature and personality to match famous West End destinations like the Sanderson or St Martin’s Lane, South Place Hotel opened last September, an 80-room boutique hotel designed by leading architects Allies & Morrison. The vibe is forward-thinking and sensual, and the rooms boast Philippe Starck bathrooms, James Heeley bath products, minibars brimming with high end goodies (including lip-smacking Sipsmith gin) and touch-sensitive controls for everything from the blackout blinds and lighting to room service. Elsewhere in the pristine building you’ll find a swish gym and spa, brilliant cocktail bar (with regular DJ sets by some very big names) and even a private lounge complete with a library of books and vintage LPs.

ANGLER

The hotel boasts two separate eateries, the first being 3 South Place – a sleek bar and grill serving breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner to a buzzy, well-heeled clientele. But

it’s the top-floor restaurant, Angler, that has the glitterati talking. Acclaimed Head Chef Tony Fleming (formerly of One Aldwych) oversees a seafood-centred menu that’s as refined and dazzling as the location, which features floor to ceiling windows with views across the City plus a mirrored ceiling that catches the afternoon light and sets the entire room aglow. You can also dine al fresco on the Angler terrace, which offers

a grill menu in Provencal surroundings (pots of fragrant lavender and sinuous olive trees), or plump for private dining for up to ten people in the Chef’s View room, from which you can gaze out across town while the kitchen staff prepare dinner a few feet from your table.

3 South Place, EC2; southplacehotel.com MOORGATE

FORK ME, SPOON ME

Looking for a unique date destination? Food writer and stylist Ravinder Bhogal is running an exclusive series of supper-club dinners at South Place Hotel throughout February, using aphrodisiac ingredients such as chilli, rose and champagne in quirky dishes guaranteed to make sparks fly. Pumpkin and feta bon bons with smoked chilli crème fraiche? Yes, please.

See hotel website for details.

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ROW YOUR BOAT ANGEL

The Narrow Boat pub is back with a new look. The weekly changing menus include some cheeky combos - think starters like smoky haddock and poached egg served with toasted soldiers – while mains put a spin on good old classics: venison cottage pie or crusted sea bream with marsh samphire. Moored along Regent’s Canal, guests can cosy up below deck or brave the top floor balcony armed with a hot toddy and blankets.

119 St Peter’s Street, N1, 020 7400 6003; thenarrowboatpub.com

Bite Sized Absolutely finds out all the food news – one bite at a time SWEET TOOTH CURRY AWARDS

RUNAWAY SUCCESS

STOKE NEWINGTON Two local restaurants have scored big in the Asian Curry Awards. Yum Yum Thai Restaurant won the Best Thai Restaurant in London, while Stoke Newington’s Oishii Japanese Eatery took the award for Best Japanese Restaurant. Richly deserved. yumyum.co.uk and oishiirestaurant.co.uk

SHOREDITCH HIGH STREET

Get in training for Shrove Tuesday by joining Alternative Arts’ Great Spitalfields Pancake Race, in aid of London’s Air Ambulance. All you need is a team of four suitably be-costumed people to enter the relay race, which will take place along Dray Walk, just outside Brick Lane’s Old Truman Brewery. Music and clowns will amp up the entertainment (and eccentricity), while pancakes will be provided by Csaba’s Hungarian Creperie; just bring your own frying pan. Heats will start at 12.30pm, followed by the finals and a prize-giving ceremony. The winners will receive a beautifully engraved (you’ve guessed it) frying pan, and there will be extra prizes for the runners up, the best behaved team and the best dressed team – all donated by Cath Kidston.

Dray Walk, Old Truman Brewery, E1; alternativearts.co.uk

LIVERPOOL STREET

Lily Vanilli reveals the science and technique behind great baking, helping you to hone the skills you need to develop your own recipes as well as sharing over 100 inspirational and easy to follow ones of her own. Her summer pop-up at Hackney House was a resoundingly welcome addition to the permanent bakery, nestled in a cute corner of Columbia Road. Sweet Tooth is for budding bakers and experts alike – all you need is a passion for the sweet stuff.

Lily Vanilli, The Courtyard, Ezra Street, E2; lilyvanilli.com

A TOUCH OF FINERY BAKER STREET

The second series of Not Your Average Curry Night at Michelinstarred Trishna started at the end of last month. The nuances of fine wines can be swamped by powerful Asian spices, but Karam Sethi’s deft touch in the kitchen means his subtly flavoured dishes are more fitting partners to sister and Zagat 30-Under-30 award-winning sommelier Sunaina’s exciting list.

Tickets will be priced at £50 inclusive of wine, water and coffee, service not included. February 24, 6.45pm-9.30pm 15-17 Blandford Street; W1; trishnalondon.com 45

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Restaurants YUM YUM THAI RESTAURANT 3183-187 Stoke Newington High Street N16 0LH 020 7254 6751 OISHII 67 Stoke Newington Church Street N16 0AR 020 7254 3488

DOLLAR GRILLS & MARTINIS 2 Exmouth Market EC1R 4PX 020 7278 0077

Top Tables A bite-sized guide to this month’s foodie destinations

Rochelle Canteen

Arnold Circus, E2, 020 7729 5677; arnoldandhenderson.com

SHOREDITCH HIGH STREET What’s the deal? Converted from an old school bike shed, Rochelle Canteen looks out onto the grassy playground and trees of Arnold Circus. Breakfast comprises granola, poached fruit and yoghurt, toast and marmalade, marmite or jam, or eggs on toast; dishes of the day include Jerusalem artichoke soup or poached chicken, carrots and aioli.

When should you go? The canteen is only open on weekdays, when you can go for breakfast, elevenses, lunch and tea. When it’s warm enough, tables are set outside.

3 French Flavours

FORMANS Stour Road, Fish Island E3 2NT 020 8525 2365

BUNDU KHAN 43 Commercial Street E1 6BD 020 7375 2595

DISHOOM 77 Boundary Street E2 7JE 020 7420 9324

HARRY MORGANS 29-31 St John’s Wood High Street NW8 7NH 020 7722 1869 MEAT PEOPLE 4-6 Essex Road N1 8LN 020 7359 5361

MEM & LAZ 8 Therberton Street N1 8LN 020 7704 9089

Edwins

Sauterelle

La Chapelle

SHOREDITCH HIGH STREET The Crunch Edwins specialises in well-priced French wines alongside classic regional French dishes. On the menu you’ll find artisan charcuterie and cheeses, cuts of Black Angus beef and classics such as cassoulet, blanquette, bouride, tartiflette and choucroute. The wines include 3,000 bottles from 70 different producers.

BANK The Crunch Sauterelle is sophisticated dining at its best, situated as it is on the mezzanine level of the Royal Exchange in addition to the Grand Café and Bar. Key to Sauterelle (aside from French fine dining) is its design: the glazed arches offer spectacular views of both Bank and the historic courtyard below.

LIVERPOOL STREET The Crunch The third restaurant from acclaimed chefs (and brothers) Chris and Jeff Galvin, La Chapelle has had praise heaped upon it from the very beginning, winning no less than eight top restaurant awards and a Michelin star in its first year.

Enjoy a menu gourmand, prix fixe lunch, early dinner or Sunday roast in a grade II-listed building.

18 Phipp Street, EC2; edwinsfrenchwinebar.co.uk

The Royal Exchange, EC3; sauterelle-restaurant.co.uk

35 Spital Square, E1; galvinrestaurants.com

SU SAZZAGONI 136 Lauriston Road E9 7LH 020 8985 8448

THE ROTISSERIE 87 Allitsen Road NW8 7AS 020 7722 7444

LA COLLINA 17 Princess Road NW1 8JR 020 7483 0192

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TREAT YOUR SWEETHEART THIS VALENTINES DAY ENJOY A 3-COURSE MEAL FOR JUST

£12.35

Starters Choux De Crab with Ginger, Chillies and Citrus Hollandaise Parsons Pastry, Smoked Chicken, Mushrooms, Crème Fraiche Baked Goat Cheese with Mixed Leaves, Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Tapenade Baked Mushrooms with Garlic & Thyme Filling and Red Pepper Relish Moules Mariniere with Shallots, Parsley, White Wine and Garlic Braised Pigs Cheeks with Sage Mash Potato and Port Wine Jus

Main Courses Herb-Crusted Cod Fillet with Chorizo and Cannellini Bean Stew Slow-Cooked Shoulder of Lamb with Roasted Vegetables and Celeriac Puree Braised Pork Belly with Savoy Cabbage, Black Pudding and Soya Honey Sauce Stuffed Roasted Red Pepper with Mange-Tout, Green Beans and Tomato Sauce Chicken Breast Stuffed with Lamb Mince with Green Beans and Port Wine Jus Confit Leg of Duck with Lentils, Leek Gratin and Ginger Sauce Vegetable Lasagne in Creamy Pecorino Sauce

Desserts

LITTLE BAY FARRINGDON

171 FARRINGDON ROAD, LONDON, EC1R 3AL

0207-278-1234 WWW.LITTLEBAY.CO.UK

Baked Vanilla Cheesecake with Passion Fruit Coulis Profiteroles with Banana Cream & Hot Chocolate Sauce Apple Cake with Custard Chocolate Terrine with Toffee Sauce Seasonal British Cheese Board

VIEW OUR FULL MENU ONLINE:

PARTIES OF 12+ CAN ENJOY A 3COURSE MEAL FOR £9.95 PER PERSON – ENQUIRE FOR MORE DETAILS

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love is a moment that lasts forever

now taking valentines bookings for a romantic classic indian dining experience, book your table at Royal India. Valentines Menu from £24.95pp

royaln16.com 020 7249 7025 020 7249 7094 47 Stoke Newington Church Street London N16 0NX info@royaln16.com

Terms & Conditions: 1/2 Price on first round of drinks only. Dining In customers only. Valid throughout December 2012. Monday - Thursday Only. Maximum of 6 diners per voucher. Voucher must be present to qualify for the offer. Promotion can be withdrawn at anytime without notice.

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FOOD

Bars/Pubs BABBLE JAR 176 Stoke Newington High Street N16 7JL 020 7254 7666 69 COLEBROOKE ROW 69 Colebrooke Row N1 8AA 07540 528 593

Reserved The tippler’s guide to this month’s buzzing bars

THE NORTHGATE 113 Southgate Road N1 3JS 020 7359 7392 THE HIGHBURY BARN 26 Highbury Park N5 2AB 020 7226 2383

JOHN SALT 131 Upper Street N1 1QP 020 7359 7501

The Old Dairy Pub

XOXO 74 Upper Street N1 0NY 020 7226 6799

What’s the deal? The Old Dairy is just that; a working dairy built in 1890 and still in possession of some fantastic features from its former life – think exposed brick walls, steel girders and magnificent etchings on the Crouch Hill side. Now lovingly restored, the result is a vast and quite magnificent gastro-pub.

Why should you go? The food is superb and the venue provides ample space for large groups, with a variety of areas to reserve including the cubby (for up to 20 guests) or the private dining room (which seats 60).

FIFTY FIVE BAR & LOUNGE 31 Jamestown Road NW1 7DB 020 7424 9054

1-3 Crouch Hill, N4, 020 7263 3337; theolddairyn4.co.uk CROUCH HILL

PROUD CAMDEN The Horse Hospital NW1 8AH 0207 482 3867

3 Cocktail Destinations

THE LORD’S TAVERN Lord’s Cricket Ground NW8 8NQ 020 7266 5980

Danger of Death

202 Brick Lane, London, E1; dangerlondon.com SHOREDITCH HIGH STREET

The Vibe High end cocktails in a low-rent, low-lit basement, this bar is the perfect place to start your night... or to wind things up at. Part of the Rushmore group that owns the old East Room and Soho’s Milk and Honey, you know you’re in good hands with this lot.

Wax Jambu

Babblejar

HIGHBURY & ISLINGTON The Vibe The ‘rum cove’ deserves a special mention – a ‘sunken galleon’ wherein you can sample from over 70 different rums. Happy hour runs until 8pm and offers two cocktails for just £10. Check the listings for the regular guest DJ sets.

DALSTON JUNCTION The Vibe A creative focal point for both established and up-and-coming artists, the main bar is a fine mix of retro furnishings, eclectic lighting and art-adorned walls.

Currently they’re offering 25% off brunches served Monday to Friday between 11am and 5pm as well as two-for-one cocktails.

144-145 Upper Street, N1; waxjambu.co.uk

176 Stoke Newington High Street, N16; babblejar.co.uk

THE WELLS 30 Well Walk NW3 1BX 020 7794 3785

THE YARD Queens Yard Hackney Wick E9 5EN

OFF BROADWAY 63-65 Broadway Market E8 4PH 020 7241 2786

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Crown Jewel

David Allard seeks out an imperial feast at Royal India

I Joint Interest Allen Hutchinson enjoys a meat feast at Beard to Tail

D

eriving its name from a quirky French-language pun on the word barbecue (barbe à queue), this restaurant is the latest venture from Richard Wynne and Kate Crutchley, owners of decadent East End drinking den Callooh Callay (which is a stone’s throw away on neighbouring Rivington Street). At the latter, patrons enter a secret bar via a wardrobe, then sip cocktails from china teacups and gramophones; happily, this penchant for oddity and adventure is also a hallmark of the couple’s newer endeavour.

The restaurant interior has an industrial feel, but even with grey breeze-block walls around you and vast metal pipework overhead, the atmosphere is cosy, intimate and relaxed.

The clientele consists largely of young pretty things quaffing cocktails and licking BBQ rib juice from their (thankfully un-trotter-like) fingers and thumbs. One thing that’s immediately apparent is that everyone is having such fun – which is probably due at least in part to the fine selection of cocktails and hard liquors available to accompany your chosen chunk of loin, rib, cheek or belly.

The menu is as meaty as they come; vegetarians would be wise to avoid this joint unless they are content with a few whiskies and a portion of double-dipped ‘Fat Daddy’ chips for dinner. The BBQ bourbon ribs are a star attraction – sticky, sweet and perfectly prepared – while other meat delights include stuffed pig’s trotter, baked bone marrow, saddleback pork chops, Shoreditch sausage or boar faggots.

Although the pig is the star of the show, the humble cow gets equal billing when it comes to the main course, so if you don’t dig swine, burgers and steaks are there for the taking. I should also mention the dessert menu, which – after a bellyful of belly – seems perfectly pitched, with the sweet treats on offer including cheesecakes, baked brioche banana sandwiches and mountainous sundaes to share.

Booze-filled meaty menus seem all the rage at the moment, and when the customers are having this much fun, you can understand why. Indeed, as the latest pop-up to appear in the area, it seems that everyone wants a piece of this particular pig whether it’s the beard, tail or any juicy morsel in between.

77 Curtain Road, EC2; beardtotail.co.uk OLD STREET

ndian food at its best is usually experienced in the vicinity of Brick Lane, but as it happens this little gem in Stoke Newington surpasses expectations – and should be noted by anyone looking for an authentic Indian flavour.

Any curry-house regular will be familiar with a certain kind of Indian restaurant, where the din and rapid turnover of diners can make for a less than relaxing experience.

Fortunately, the Royal India is different.

A family-run business, it has a warm and welcoming atmosphere; in fact, the family behind it have been operating Indian restaurants in Hackney since the 1980s, and Royal India itself is now enjoying its 11th year – so you’re in very good hands.

The service during my visit was faultless and the staff very hospitable, but what makes the Royal different from its competitors are the ‘signature innovations’, their own inspired twists on classic Indian dishes.

All the offerings sound tantalisingly delicious, which make it difficult to choose, but in the end I opted for the Murgh Makanwala, featuring chicken which had been marinated overnight in a delicious, creamy sauce with cinnamon, almonds and cashews. The food is uniformly fresh and excellently spiced, with every mouthful proving a wonderful sensory experience.

A celebrated local stalwart, the Royal India is a superb place to eat on a night out before heading off to explore the fantastic nightlife of Stoke Newington. Long may it continue.

47 Stoke Newington Church, N16; royaln16.com

STOKE NEWINGTON

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Not just This Morning... but every morning

Marilyn Stowe is the senior partner at Stowe Family Law and resident family law expert on ITV’s This Morning.

Leading the UK’s largest dedicated family law firm, she has more than 30 years’ experience handling divorce cases and family law proceedings.

· One of the first solicitors to qualify as a family law arbitrator through the newly-formed Institute of Family Law Arbitrators (IFLA).

· The first Chief Assessor and Chief Examiner of the Law Society’s Family Law Panel.

· A Fellow of the International Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers: a global association of lawyers recognised for expertise in their respective countries.

Located in WC1, Stowe Family Law specialises in family law issues and covers a wide range of cases.

From divorce to cohabitees’ rights, with dedicated international and children’s teams.

The team also offers mediation, arbitration and collaborative approaches and benefits from a specialist in-house forensic accountancy department that tracks down hidden assets and can provide immediate financial advice.

If you need family law advice, early support can be essential.

Stowe Family Law can help.

Contact 0207 7421 3300 or email chiefexecutive@stowefamilylaw.co.uk 8 Fulwood Place, Gray’s Inn, London WC1V 6HG www.stowefamilylaw.co.uk www.marilynstowe.co.uk

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RHS Level 2 Certificate: Principles of Plant Growth, Propagation & Development Starts Wednesday 27 February Regent’s Park Centre Starts Tuesday 26 February Enfield Centre Suitable for students with an enquiring mind and a desire to gain the knowledge and understanding required by horticulturists to be successful in growing plants.

• One day a week for fifteen weeks.

• A theory based course with demonstrations and walks.

• Course Content: Plant classification, structure and function (5 units) Plant nutrition and the root environment (3 credits) Maintaining Plant Health (3 credits) Understanding plant propagation (3 credits).

• Provides a route to employment in professional

horticulture and supports career development for those already working in the profession.

• Leads to the nationally recognised RHS Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of Plant Growth, Propagation and Development.

• Students can broaden their understanding with the RHS Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of Garden Planning, Establishment and Maintenance (the second part of the full RHS Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of Horticulture).

• Progression is to the RHS Level 3 Diploma or Level 3 Garden Design combined with a short course in Drawing and Graphics.

To apply contact Admissions on 08456 122122 or email enquiries@capel.ac.uk A range of full and part-time day and evening courses in horticulture are offered at Capel Manor for beginners, professionals and hobbyists alike.

Click here or visit www.capel.ac.uk/ horticulture-and-landscaping.html

Capel Manor College

growing your potential in the NATURAL WORLD Regent’s Park Centre, The Store Yard Inner Circle, Regent’s Park, NW1 4NR Enfield Centre, Bullsmoor Lane, Enfield EN1 4RQ

www.capel.ac.uk Combining qualifications with experience

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INTERIORS

THE ART OF SEDUCTION Designer and boudoir queen Sera Hersham-Loftus is many celebs’ interiors go-to girl. Absolutely takes a look at Tony Award winner Frances Ruffelle’s redecorated mews house

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ABOVE: FRANCES HAS AN ABUNDANT COLLECTION OF CANDLESTICKS AND AT NIGHTFALL SHE LIGHTS CANDLES IN EVERY CORNER OF THE HOUSE.

‘‘I

was approached by Frances Ruffelle, the extraordinarily talented stage siren, to help her decorate her gorgeous mews house – originally a stable – in London’s Primrose Hill. She wanted it sexy, bohemian and cosy. The more I have come to know her, the more I realise that what she wanted for her home was, subconsciously, a true reflection of herself.

Frankie is like the star of a Fellini movie.

She’s a world-renowned talent as a singer, actress and dancer; she’s also a ravishing beauty with smouldering femme fatale looks (there have been comparisons to Anouk Aimadurée, the 1960s actress). On top of that, she has a

dangerous giggle that’s madly infectious.

We’re now great pals. We both have three almost grown-up children about whom we are passionate. Her daughter is the poptastic Eliza Doolittle; her son Nat is a magnificent artist, and her other son, Felix, is a budding musician.

We are both addicted to life, love, and friends, and we share the ethos that a home should not be precious - it should be a retreat and a sanctuary for all who live there and everyone who visits.”

Seductive Interiors is published by CICO Books and priced at £30 (hardback). It is available from all good bookshops or you can call 01256-302699 quoting GLR7WK to purchase a copy at the special price of £25 including free postage and packaging. cicobooks.co.uk

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FIRST PAGE: A CRUDE REFECTORY TABLE LAID WITH PRIMROSE HILL CUPCAKES AND OTHER FINERY. AFRICAN RUGS SOFTEN THE FLOOR. ABOVE: THE ARTS AND CRAFTS CABINET HOLDS HER COLLECTION OF ANTIQUE CLOTHING AND THINGS OF SENTIMENTAL VALUE THAT SHE HAS AMASSED DURING HER TRIPS AROUND THE GLOBE. BELOW: FRANCES IN HER OFFICE WITH MUSIC SHEETS STREWN ALL OVER HER DESK. THIS IS WHERE SHE LEARNS HER LINES FOR HER PLAYS AND PRACTISES THE MUSIC FOR HER SHOWS. ALL AROUND HER ARE PAINTINGS AND DRAWINGS BY HER CHILDREN.

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Tim Moss Bespoke kitchens showroom at 328 Dukes Mews London N10 2QN / 10am — 5pm 020 8444 9911 furniture@timmoss.co.uk www.timmoss.co.uk

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Wax Lyrical

IL D I, W ERED IPAN SE LAY G N A RO S, FRD TUBE s.com e OVE JO L EDA AN75; jolov RES DLE, £ CAN

PEN SAM HAL CA AKA IGON ND ’ LE, ND CLS, £32 ASS ; pen IC hali gon s.co m

8

of the best

WHITE COMPANY, WINTER BOTANICAL CANDLE , £20; THEWHITECOMPANY.COM

CANDLES R, U IE , FIGis.co.uk E U r TYQ epa DIP diptyqu £38;

MOLTON BROW N, PARADISIAC SINGLE WICKPINK PEPPERPOD moltonbrown.coCANDLE, £36; .uk

, HARRIS ; MILLERE TUBEREUSE NOIX Dlerharris.com £38; mil

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AC CO QUA D £50 LONIA I PAR ; ha M rvey CUBE A, nich CA ols.c NDL om E,

, & ROLF VIKTORR BOMB E W LE , FLO D CAND SCENTE eynichols.com £40 ; harv

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Sale extended

Crouch End 128 Crouch Hill, London N8 Telephone 020 8341 2020

Islington 42 Cross Street, London N1 Telephone 020 7359 4041

www.funktionalkitchens.co.uk

We don’t spend all of our time in the kitchen.

We have an exciting range of bedroom and bathroom furniture too.

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INTERIORS ON THE SURFACE

Wayne and Geraldine Hemingway have come a long way since selling their wares on Camden Market in 1982. The couple went on to sell their hugely successful Red or Dead clothing line in 1995 and haven’t exactly been sitting on their laurels since, with the immediate launch of design agency Hemingway Design. We can’t get enough of the company’s exclusive collection for Surface View; characterised by bold, Lichtenstein-esque Pop Art and graphic prints. surfaceview.co.uk

Interior Inspirations Gemma Billington rounds up the best trends, designers and local gems

CHINA GIRL

HOXTON Popular ceramicist Reiko Kaneko has added some new additions to her classic collections with a unique spin on traditional 18th-century bone china. Stocked in Treacle, 110-112 Columbia Road, E2; reikokaneko.co.uk

MEXICAN WAVE

AUTUMN WATCH

CHALK FARM Osborne & Little have been top of their field for over 40 years. There’s an overwhelming choice, but our pick is the sweet autumnal oak pattern by Dalston designer Chris Pearson.

Feuille de Chêne wallpaper, W6430-01, £56 per roll, stocked in Living in Space, 43 England’s Lane, Belsize Park, NW3; osborneandlittle.com

SHOREDITCH HIGH STREET This cheery fellow is part of the Juan is Dead collectables from the afterlife.

Creator Leah Reeves studied Fine Art at Nottingham University and fell in love with the mosaic medium to create bespoke and one-off art. Though an apparently morbid subject; the traditional Mexican holiday is a colourful celebration of those who have passed on. Stocked in InSpitalfields, 13 Lamb Street, Old Spitalfields Market, E1; juanisdead.com

HEART OF GLASS

Shoreditch-based product and interior designer Lee Broom, who gained even more attention after furnishing The Gold Room in Lancaster House for last year’s Olympics, is due to launch an exclusive three-piece glassware collection at Liberty. The Half Cut collection integrates the unused crystal stoppers from Broom’s Decanterlight collection which have been gathered for years. leebroom.com and liberty.co.uk 61

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Exhibition sponsored by

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Absolutely

TRAVEL

Caribbean Special

Treasure Island Helen Baron visits Jade Mountain in St Lucia, where romance and relaxation reach luxurious new heights

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THE ARCHITECTURE Jade Mountain is a structural marvel. The brainchild of architect and owner Nick Troubetzkoy, the resort is a triumphant achievement of singular depth, vision and beauty, incorporating the most extensive use of the ‘vanishing edge’ water feature not just in a hotel setting, but anywhere in the world.

Housed within a strikingly unusual complex set high in the luscious St. Lucian hills, Jade Mountain overlooks its sister resort, Anse Chastenet, and its stunning combination of organic architecture and breathtaking natural surroundings make it one of (if not the) most romantic destinations on earth.

The key to Jade Mountain’s architectural splendour is harmony. With 25 luxury suites (or sanctuaries, as they’re known on-site) on six mountainside levels, another developer might have overwhelmed the teeming tropical rainforest on the hotel’s doorstep. Not Troubetzkoy, who has fashioned a haven that reposes so elegantly within its natural environment.

Twenty of the sanctuaries contain their own infinity pool (discreetly connected by a brilliantly conceived system of channels, basins and troughs) – though ‘contain’ is perhaps the wrong word when each room lacks a fourth wall. The rooms are open to the dazzling blue St Lucian skies, the endless Caribbean Sea and the glittering green rainforest below. It’s a jaw-droppingly luxurious feature and an achingly romantic one: imagine waking each day to the warm tropical air and panoramic views of the volcanic Piton peaks rising high above the bay. Tiny, colourful rainforest birds dart into your room to pluck breakfast crumbs from your fingertips, and you can sunbathe unseen on your terrace, comfortable in the knowledge that your personal pool is mere inches away. What’s more, each sanctuary is reached by its own bridge – so the sense of privacy is amazingly complete. The overall impression of the place is of a deliriously upscale Tracey Island, or something from a sixties Bond film, albeit without all that death-defying adventure.

Jade Mountain is a place to escape all stress and feel at one with the world at its most beautiful, and every aspect of its design renders resistance futile.

ROOMS The rooms are a tasteful tribute to Caribbean island life, with all materials sustainably sourced from local islands – including sand and gravel, rose-grey tinted stone and a plethora of gorgeous tropical hardwoods and coral tiles. The pool tiles are made from recycled glass and each room boasts its own unique variety. In addition, there are no televisions, no stereo systems, no electronic ‘distractions’ to tear you from the natural wonder all around. Okay, a wi-fi network is available for those who really need to check their email, but even the bathrooms are designed to maximise your interactions with the hotel’s spectacular setting, with rainfall showers and chromatherapy spa baths perched above the living and sleeping areas, affording you some of the world’s most magical views as you soak.

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TRAVEL

Caribbean Special

SERVICE

Jade Mountain is a place to feel at one with the world

The staff at Jade Mountain breathe new life into the well-worn idea of ‘service with a smile.’ From the team of butlers to cycling instructor (and guide to local flora and fauna) Tyson, every member of staff we encountered seemed genuinely proud of the resort and its facilities, and more than willing to help make our holiday as perfect as possible. Even better, there was no stuffiness or over-the-top formality; the atmosphere was as relaxed and convivial as the service was incredible. Special mention must go to assistant manager Peter Jean-Paul, whose care and enthusiasm ensured our stay was never less than sublime.

What this means for couples is that Jade Mountain takes care of all the little details, allowing you to concentrate on each other. Each evening while you dine at one of the resort’s several restaurants, the candles dotted around your room are lit and the bed turned down. You re-enter your sanctuary to find the sun-drenched daytime refuge transformed into an intimate tropical hideaway.

Down below, the sea rushes in and recedes, lulling you to sleep – only for you to wake and experience everything afresh.

RESORT Below Jade Mountain sits the 600-acre beachfront resort of Anse Chastenet, itself a world-renowned destination. Nestled in an exquisite hillside spot on St Lucia’s west coast, the resort consists of a scattering of French colonial-style bungalows set along the sandy beach. Guests at Jade Mountain can take advantage of all the facilities of Anse

Chastenet, from its restaurants and scuba school to its exceptional snorkelling and watersports.

We were lucky enough to enjoy the resort’s star attraction during our stay – a private sunset cruise (complete with tropical canapés and champagne) aboard the beautiful sailing yacht Serenity. And while there is plenty of amazing stuff to experience at Jade Mountain and Anse Chastenet – from whale-watching and guided history hikes to town trips and rainforest biking – nothing beats a tranquil hour or two spent gazing across the ocean as the Caribbean sun bids the world goodnight.

By the time our cheery captain and his first mate had returned us to the resort, the lights were twinkling all over the mountain. We trod a slow, happy path across the sand, wondering at how easy the staff made it all seem; shaving off the rough edges of life, choreographing our trip so that we had no time to worry about anything.

It’s all about learning to let go by embracing life, a delicious paradox that makes a stay at Jade Mountain as memorable as it is romantic – and which ensures the glow remains for a long time after you return home.

PRICE TAG Nightly rates at Jade Mountain start at US$ 1,275 per Sanctuary. Price is based on two persons sharing a Sky, Star, Moon, Sun or Galaxy Jacuzzi Suite. All rates are subject to 8% tax and 10% service charges.

Nightly rates at Anse Chastanet start from US $330 per night in a Standard Room based on two sharing.

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Anyone for tennis?

Gemma Billington brushes up on her backhand in the Antiguan sunshine

T

he small West Indies island of Antigua is an intoxicating kind of beauty. From the moment you step into the stifling heat of its tiny airport and are taken through the lusciously green landscape dotted with a mass of rugged houses of bright, tropical colours, the Caribbean ambiance takes over. Exotic birds, goats, cows and stray dogs dart precariously across the road and curious eyes of fresh fruit street vendors (at the time of my visit there were actually more ripe mangos freshly available than could be harnessed and sold) peer through the car window. Curtain Bluff, situated on the southern coast of the island in St John’s, is a landmark resort not just for its renown and unwavering popularity, but also through its integral status in the community.

And the timing of my visit couldn’t have been more poignant, during the hotel’s 50th anniversary celebrations in 2012.

Curtain Bluff (named in homage to the ‘bluff’ landscape on which the resort is built and the curtain shape of the waves that crash against it) was constructed by pilot Sir Howard Hulford – a grand looking gentleman with colonel style

moustache – after he spotted the rugged site from the air in 1962. At this time the local area, Old Road, was a poor and isolated fishing village.

Though Howard died five years ago, he is spoken of both fondly and regularly, and his presence is widely felt across the resort. His vivacious widow, Chelle, is a common sight around the hotel on her golf caddy as she chats with staff and guests.

The illustrious sporting event initially began life as a professional island-wide tournament in 1975, but now draws a regular crowd of international enthusiasts and some of the biggest names in the sport. Organised by multiple Grand Slam winner Fred Stolle, the week is a mixture of friendly tournaments and tennis clinics and is a unique opportunity for tennis buffs and amateurs alike (of which I am most definitely in the latter category) to be taught by former world number one players. As I was to discover, there’s a reason that participants proudly sport Curtain Bluff Tennis Week t-shirts from previous years; the experience is rather addictive.

Throughout the week, tennis participants are split into male and female groups and then separated into more manageable sized teams. During the clinics, the small groups are given a set amount of time in each court to practice a different skill with a different set of pros, before moving on to the next.

Despite initially feeling like I had reverted to my gauche schoolgirl days – when sport was not exactly my forté – I quickly got into the swing of things (excuse the pun) and it was a massively informative, and, more pertinently, enjoyable

‘The sporting event initially began life as a professional island-wide tournament in 1975’ Their home at the peak of the bluff is the venue for our pre-tennis week cocktail reception and has undoubtedly the finest vistas of the area; enabling you to see as far as Montserrat and St Kitts.

A Caribbean getaway is obviously a tempting excursion at any time of the year, but my visit coincides with the famous annual Antigua Tennis Week, which I have gallantly signed myself up for.

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TRAVEL

Caribbean Special

experience. It’s a slightly surreal notion to have a former world champion grab my arm and assist my follow-through, and the encouraging and witty comments of Mr Stolle (‘that one’ll bring rain’ – he remarked at one of my many misguided, sky-grazing shots) added a jovial touch of informality. In true Caribbean fashion, the attitude is incredibly relaxed. Participants are equally welcome to stick religiously to the clinic schedule or dip in and out as they so choose.

The inevitably competitive nature such a sport imbues is countered with humour and gusto from both participants and teachers (a combination of international pros and Curtain Bluff employees) who all take part in the many dinners, cocktail parties and soirées. They’re also more than happy to give an early morning one-on-one lesson too.

The extra curricular activities on tap – cooking classes, trips to Shirley Heights – as well as an impressive menu of inclusive water sports (waterskiing, scuba diving, deep sea fishing) make the temptation to skip a clinic or two awfully high. It’s also essential, if your muscles are feeling the strain of your sporting endeavours, to test the resort’s spa, built only six years ago, which provides not only a range of luxurious treatments, but is also home to

some of the most dramatic views of the area.

It’s easy in all-inclusive resorts to experience a sense of separation; the guests are cocooned – separate from the true identity of the country.

Curtain Bluff has quite the opposite effect. Old Road would not be the region it is today without the resort and vice-versa. When Howard set up his hotel he didn’t just create a resort, but a charity and a home too, and this is reflected in the tennis week’s history. In Curtain Bluff’s early years, the local children would take tennis balls that were hit outside, so the hotel invited them in and taught them how to play. This grew organically into the Old Road Fund; a charity that sends local youths to American academies and assists with health and education initiatives. A number of Curtain Bluff tennis pros are former beneficiaries of this scheme. Visitors are informed that there is a no tipping service, but to instead donate money to the fund.

This is part of the genuine humility at the heart of Curtain Bluff. Managing Director Robert Sherman (who is more likely to be mistaken for a relaxed tourist in his daily uniform of shorts and t-shirt) is just as likely to carry your suitcase to your room as any other

member of staff. This is not a faux-charitable gesture to appeal to tourists, but is a natural component of the resort. The infectious Caribbean spirit could be blamed for this lack of ostentation; but it’s no doubt largely due to a love of the island, the people and the resort. This is clearly not just a job. Perhaps this explains why a large number of the staff – Robert included – arrived in their early 20s and simply never left.

This also explains why boarding the plane at the end of our short, eventful trip, ready to fly back to reality is equally difficult. Until next season.

Stay 7 nights pay for 5 at Curtain Bluff, Antigua from £2,525 pp based on 2 adults sharing a Junior Suite on a full board basis, including return economy class flights and private transfers. Book through ITC Classics, 01244 355 527 or visit www.itcclassics.co.uk. 7 nights for the price of 5, save up to £800 per person, valid for travel completed between 18 May - 26 Jul 2013. For details on the tennis events visit www.curtainbluff. com/tennis/events.html. New for 2013 Curtain Bluff are delighted to introduce a brand new Fantasy Tennis Camp with Tracy Austin which takes place from 29th April – 3rd May 2013, and this year’s Antigua Tennis Week runs from 11th – 18th May 2013.

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An isle of one’s own Harriet Compston discovers the art of taking it easy at a former sugar plantation on the Caribbean island of Nevis

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TRAVEL

Caribbean Special

I

t is the stuff of legends. Christopher Columbus set eyes upon it, Horatio Nelson married on it and a newly divorced Princess Diana escaped to it.

Yes, the enchanting island of Nevis is ‘Queen of the Caribbees.’

The Antigua of 20 years ago, Nevis stands at just 36 square miles, and with only 10,000 residents, you can drive around it in 40 minutes. Here, vulgarity is out of the window; no hotel chains sprawl far and wide, no tourists are bussed-in daily and no tacky beach equipment strangles its streets.

Nelson once said, ‘I have always been a quarter of an hour before my time and it has made a man of me.’

The same can be said for this Caribbean pocket. It’s a time warp of bliss.

To see that Nevis is hidden away, one need only try to get to it. A plane to Antigua, a mini plane to St Kitts, a half hour road trip to St Kitts Harbour and a jolly boat ride later, you finally arrive at Nevis’ capital, Charlestown. A Nelsonian journey perhaps, but well worth the effort.

Four miles from Charlestown, past donkeys, coloured houses and crumbled buildings, lies the Montpelier Plantation and Beach. Dating back to the 1700s, this boutique hotel was formerly a sugar estate, which did indeed host the wedding of Nelson and

is demonstrated by the in-house sommelier who provides excellent wine pairings. Best of all, however, is a candlelit dinner in the Mill Privée, the original sugar mill. Completely intact, it’s one of those rare experiences you are unlikely ever to repeat.

The hotel is family run – and animal run (there are two gorgeous labradors) – and therein lies the key to its success. You feel at home, relaxed and can spend all day doing nothing or indeed everything. The hotel’s private beach nearby provides fantastic sunbathing on volcanic soil, the sea is warm like a hot bath, and Montpelier will do a delicious private picnic of grilled fish and all kinds of goodies, you need only ask.

Sun, sea and sand aside, there are still lots of adventures to be found. Charlestown provides a Georgian colonial hit, as the childhood home to Alexander Hamilton, one of the founding fathers of the United States. The town sings of dignified elegance, cleverly harmonised by the island’s colourful culture. Hens scratch in the main street whilst market stalls with fantastical-looking fruit sit happily amongst the ‘OMG Desserts’ shop, the optimistically named ‘Super foods supermarket’ and the spiritual ironmonger whose shop window is sincerely emblazoned with a bible quote.

Yes, God reigns here, gospel style, and so little wonder Charlestown has an impressive array of churches. St James’ Windward, for example, houses one of only five black crucifixes in the world whilst just down the road is St Thomas’, the first Anglican church in the Caribbean, built in 1643. Church is so popular in fact, that there isn’t even a market on Sundays – nobody would go!

For more of an adrenalin kick, Nevis Peak is the destination of choice. Up a 3,213ft potentially active volcano, it’s a hard hike – the most difficult mountain climb in the Caribbean – but unquestionably a visual wonder.

Starting in dry humid forest, the area evolves into deep rainforest, which turns into a knee-scraping, rock-climbing, hardcore workout. It’s tough but super fun and at the top, a visitors book can be signed by all intrepid souls who have made it.

Enthralling, exciting, entertaining, Nevis is an island of many colours. So ‘splice the mainbrace’ as the Admiral would say, and set sail with immediate haste. For this magical land of hide and seek will not remain undiscovered for long.

‘Best of all is dinner in the 300-year-old sugar mill. it’s an experience you’re unlikely ever to repeat’ Fanny Nesbit in 1787. Now, over 300 years later, the plantation is sailing seamlessly and sensitively into the 21st century. There are 19 rooms (well, cottages really). All individually designed with a running colonial chic theme, the look is light and spacious and each boasts sumptuous linen, Egyptian cotton and private verandas.

Ask for Cottage 15, where Princess Diana stayed soon after her divorce, for it parades the most incredible uninterrupted views. Further down the path is the hotel swimming pool – utterly sublime with ice cold drinks served up on tap. And whilst on the subject of service, if you’re imagining cloned, suited and booted, machine-like staff, forget it. Everyone here is natural, polite and genuinely courteous.

And now to the food; a triumph in its vast selection. Mixing French and Caribbean cuisine (think pan-seared snapper and key lime millefeuille) the Nevis Restaurant 750 is definitely worth a visit. Their philosophy that ‘good food must be accompanied by an equally good bottle of wine’

Harriet Compston travelled to Montpelier Plantation & Beach with Cox & Kings (0845 154 8941; coxandkings.co.uk). A 7-night stay is priced from £1,795 per person including flights with British Airways, return transfers from St Kitts and breakfast daily. All activities can be arranged through the hotel – montpeliernevis.com.

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BISQUE Founded over 30 years ago, the philosophy and vision of Bisque remains the same: to offer beautiful but practical radiators in the most exciting styles, colours and shapes.

Our radiators range from traditional towel rails to the latest energy efficient designs.

We keep over 500 product lines in stock, including many exciting finishes such as the industrial lacquered bare metal finish.

For 2013 we have launched a fabulous new range of colours and finishes including Amethyst, Terracotta and Gold.

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Our sleek Arteplano radiator is available in 200 sizes and 2000 colours.

See our full range at our London showroom where our experienced team can help with all aspects of radiator selection from heat loss calculations to colour matching.

London Showroom 244 Belsize Road, London NW6 4BT T: 020 7328 2225 F: 020 7328 9845 Open: Mon – Fri 9 – 5 Sat 11 – 4 www.bisque.co.uk

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14/12/2012 15:03

ABSOLUTELY Property February 2013

Thornhill Crescent, N1

ÂŁ900,000 Leasehold

A fantastic two bedroom maisonette for sale on a picturesque and sought after square in Barnsbury, with Caledonian Road and Barnsbury overground and railway stations in very close proximity. The property boasts living and entertaining space with period features and a large private garden to the rear.

Kinleigh Folkard & Hayward, Islington 020 7226 2487; kfh.co.uk

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ISLINGTON

Fergus Road London N5 A stunning three/four bedroom Victorian family home on this highly sought after street moments from Highbury Fields.

Successfully combining contemporary design with original period detailing, the property has been beautifully refurbished by the current owners who have extended on the ground floor and into the loft to create an incredibly spacious and attractive home reception room | dining room | 3 bedrooms | further bedroom/study | 2 bathrooms | kitchen | guest cloakroom | cellar | garden | EPC rating D

Guide price ÂŁ1,425,000 freehold

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020 7354 6666 islington@cluttons.com

21/01/2013 12:44

ISLINGTON

Park Place London N1 A sleek contemporary townhouse within a private gated mews, beautifully presented throughout, the property showcases state of the art contemporary design whilst offering flexible accommodation over three floors and leafy south-facing views reception room | dining room with open-plan kitchen | 2 bedrooms (1 en suite) | further bathroom | study | parking | balcony | roof terrace | EPC rating C

Guide price ÂŁ1,000,000 freehold

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21/01/2013 12:45

ISLINGTON

Ardleigh Road London N1 A stunning two bedroom apartment within a stylish modern development in the heart of De Beauvoir. Accessed via a pretty courtyard and arranged over the first floor, property is ideally located for access to the City, Islington's Upper Street and fashionable Shoreditch and Hoxton reception room with open-plan kitchen | 2 bedrooms (1en suite) | 1 further bathroom | balcony | communal courtyard | EPC rating C

Guide price ÂŁ599,950 leasehold

Highbury Park London N5 A beautifully presented two bedroom flat on the first floor of an attractive Victorian building in a popular location close to Highbury Fields. Refurbished by the current owners, the property is a short distance from Arsenal Underground station giving easy access to the West End reception room with open-plan kitchen | 2 bedrooms | bathroom | EPC rating D

Guide price ÂŁ375,000 leasehold

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ISLINGTON

Highbury Crescent London N5 Boasting grand proportions and a wealth of period features this excellent apartment has recently been updated by the owner. The property has a spectacular reception room with high ceilings and three sets of French windows facing the garden, separate kitchen with marble work surface, double bedroom with fitted wardrobes and direct views of Highbury Fields reception room | dining room | double bedroom | bathroom | kitchen | garden | EPC rating D

ÂŁ695 per week unfurnished

Compton Terrace London N1 A beautiful first floor period conversion on a desirable terrace in the heart of Islington, with high ceilings in the reception room and large windows. The apartment has been subject to recent refurbishment work and redecoration. Compton Terrace runs parallel to Upper Street and overlooks a small well maintained park reception room | 2 double bedrooms | bathroom | kitchen | EPC rating D

ÂŁ560 per week unfurnished

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ISLINGTON

Highbury Park London N5 A two bedroom apartment on an attractive terrace in central Highbury with a stunning shared roof terrace boasting far reaching views. Highbury Park is close to coffee shops and delis at Highbury Barn and the open space of Highbury Fields. Arsenal station (Piccadilly line) is a short distance from the property and Highbury & Islington station (Victoria line) is also within reach reception room | 2 double bedrooms | bathroom | kitchen | communal roof terrace | EPC rating D

ÂŁ450 per week furnished

Steeple View Apartments London N7 Set well back from the road, the apartment is positioned on the top floor of a smart warehouse style development with lift access and a fantastic terrace with lovely views. Steeple View Apartments is located off Holloway Road and is convenient for transport as both Upper Holloway station (Overground) and Holloway Road station (Piccadilly line) are within easy reach reception room with open-plan kitchen | double bedroom | bathroom | lift access | terrace | EPC rating B

ÂŁ415 per week furnished

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ISLINGTON

Drayton Park London N5 This two bedroom apartment is positioned on the second floor of a well maintained development that benefits from lift access, porter and communal roof terrace. Drayton Park runs from Holloway Road to Gillespie Road and the nearest underground station can be found at Arsenal (Piccadilly line), with local amenities at Highbury Barn offering an array of delis and coffee shops reception room with open-plan kitchen | 2 double bedrooms | 2 bathrooms | lift | porter | communal roof terrace | EPC rating B

ÂŁ375 per week furnished

Upper Street London N1 This bright studio apartment is situated on the first floor of a refurbished period building and benefits from high ceilings throughout and excellent natural light. The studio room is a good size with wood flooring and large windows, there is also a modern separate kitchen and bathroom. The apartment is in a central location convenient for transport at Angel station studio room | bathroom | kitchen | EPC rating C

ÂŁ330 per week furnished

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21/01/2013 12:47

BALFOUR ROAD, N5 £599,950 A two bedroom maisonette set over the top two floors of this Victorian terrace house, the property is bright and spacious with modern décor. Refurbished to a high standard it also provides good access to local amenities.

Chain free / Period property / Immaculately presented / Real wood floors throughout

FINSBURY PARK ROAD, N4 £1,250,000 A stunning semi-detached Victorian house boasting accommodation over 2,600 sq ft, this gorgeous property offers ample space for a family to grow into and will make a wonderful home.

Character features / Excavated basement / Large garden / Contemporary finishes

winkworth.co.uk/islington | 020 7354 2480 islington@winkworth.co.uk winkworth.co.uk/highbury | 020 7989 7000 highbury@winkworth.co.uk winkworth.co.uk/shoreditch | 020 7749 7650 shoreditch@winkworth.co.uk

Scan this code to download the Winkworth iPhone app

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CRUTCHED FRIARS, EC3 £925,000 In the heart of the square mile – A four bedroom, upper maisonette occupying the top two floors of the building and measuring approximately 1,625 sq ft.

Roof terrace / Four double bedrooms / Walk-in wardrobes / Wooden floors throughout

SOUTHGATE ROAD, N1 £850,000

Finished to an extremely high standard and located in the increasingly popular De Beauvoir, this stunning home comprises of an openplan kitchen/reception and 3 double bedrooms, two with en-suites and a further family bathroom.

Immaculately finished / Roof terrace / Landscaped garden / Off-street parking space

winkworth.co.uk/islington | 020 7354 2480 islington@winkworth.co.uk winkworth.co.uk/highbury | 020 7989 7000 highbury@winkworth.co.uk winkworth.co.uk/shoreditch | 020 7749 7650 shoreditch@winkworth.co.uk

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MATILDA STREET, N1 £850 PER WEEK A stunning 3 bedroom house on a pretty and peaceful road, boasting large interiors, high ceilings and original features. The property comprises large reception room, dining room, modern kitchen, three sumptuous bedrooms, a large bathroom and a beautiful garden.

Original features / Large private garden / Beautifully finished / Great transport links

MATILDA STREET, N1, £1,100 PER WEEK

GAINSBOROUGH STUDIOS SOUTH, N1 £450 PER WEEK

A large two bedroom apartment finished to an excellent standard within a popular modern development. The property comprises two double bedrooms, one with en-suite bathroom and a large open plan living space with fully fitted integrated kitchen.

Parking / Contemporary finishes / Spacious / Modern development

winkworth.co.uk/islington | 020 7354 2480 islington@winkworth.co.uk winkworth.co.uk/highbury | 020 7989 7000 highbury@winkworth.co.uk winkworth.co.uk/shoreditch | 020 7749 7650 shoreditch@winkworth.co.uk

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JACKSON ROAD, N7 ÂŁ475 PER WEEK A beautiful two double bedroom split level apartment, this property boasts a spacious reception room with a feature fire place and has loads of natural light and a separate eat-in kitchen.

Very spacious / Great location / Balcony / Beautifully presented

OCKENDON ROAD, N1 ÂŁ390 PER WEEK A beautiful one double bedroom garden flat, this property boasts a large living room with lovely wooden floors, separate modern kitchen and a stunning landscaped garden.

Character features / Good transport links / Fantastic outdoor space / Wooden floors throughout

winkworth.co.uk/islington | 020 7354 2480 islington@winkworth.co.uk winkworth.co.uk/highbury | 020 7989 7000 highbury@winkworth.co.uk winkworth.co.uk/shoreditch | 020 7749 7650 shoreditch@winkworth.co.uk

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faronsutaria.co.uk

SALES & LETTINGS

HIGHBURY NEW PARK, N5 A beautifully presented flat with sole use of a 50 ft. south facing garden, situated in a prime Highbury location. Energy Rating: D. 2 bedrooms, bathroom, reception room, patio, garden.

Leasehold ÂŁ699,950

020 7887 2335 islington@faronsutaria.co.uk

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faronsutaria.co.uk

SALES & LETTINGS

ROYLE BUILDING, N1 A superb canal side apartment set on the upper floors of this modern, portered block well placed for access to Angel, Upper Street and Old Street. Energy Rating: D. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, reception room, balcony terrace, private parking, porter.

Leasehold ÂŁ947,000 020 7887 2335 islington@faronsutaria.co.uk

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PROPERTY ROUND-UP

KING’S MEWS, WC1N

Stunning architecturally designed mews house benefiting from an extensive renovation throughout, centrally located for the amenities and transport links of Bloomsbury. £1,500 per week Hamptons, Islington, 020 7359 5675; hamptons.co.uk

WORSHIP STREET, EC2A

Located at the heart of the fashionable City fringe, Worship Street is a remarkable bespoke development of just 8 ecologically conscious luxury apartments with a balcony or terrace set over the fifth, sixth and seventh floors of the London Stock Exchange’s former communications centre. £635,000 - £1,225,000 Currell, Clerkenwell, 020 7253 2533; currell.com 86

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PROPERTY

ST JOHN STREET, EC1

Rarely available, this three bedroom apartment is arranged over five floors of a Georgian building on St John Street. Benefiting from its own private entrance on the ground floor, the stairs lead to a spacious lounge and kitchen/ dining room with direct access to a private roof terrace, leading onto communal gardens. ÂŁ1,150,000 Winkworth, Islington, 0207 354 2480; winkworth.co.uk

HIGHBURY CRESCENT, N5

Boasting grand proportions and a wealth of period features this excellent apartment is offered to the market having been recently updated by the owner. The property has a quite spectacular reception/dining room with high ceilings and three sets of French windows facing the garden, separate kitchen with marble work surface, double bedroom with fitted wardrobes and direct views of Highbury Fields. ÂŁ695 per week Cluttons, Islington, 020 7354 6666; cluttons.com 87

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Your reward for all the late nights in the office.

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Islington PROPERTIES LTD

Duncan Terrace, £700 per week Barnsbury Road, N1 ~N1 £349,500

maisonetteapartment on the upper floors of the a converted Georgian terraced terraced house in ahouse primein location in A oneA bedroom occupying first floor of a Georgian a fantastic the Angel.

With two bedrooms, two bathrooms, stylish kitchen with terrace and large lounge. location close to Angel tube.

Visit us at 111 Upper Street, Islington, London N1 1QN or follow us on Twitter @islingtonproper

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020 7812 0480 www.islingtonproperties.com

Brushfield Street, E1 ~ ÂŁ1,095 pw

A stunning 3-bed property arranged over three floors and finished to an exceptional standard throughout. Located in the heart of Spitalfields, a short walk away from Liverpool Street Station.

Bath Street, EC1 ÂŁ695,000

An unusual live/work unit occupying 1851 sq ft and arranged over the ground and basement floors of a private development close to Old Street. With huge potential for rearrangement.

Passionate about properties

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PROPERTY

PROFILE

BEST KEPT SECRET...

Absolutely

Pistachio & Pickle delicatessen, Liverpool Road. They do homemade sandwiches with delicious fillings such as chorizo and sundried tomato and speciality coffees. The rear garden is an oasis of calm, ideal for summer meetings.

THE MOST FABULOUS COCKTAIL IS...

FAVOURITE RESTAURANT...

Isarn Thai. The cow hide and chrome chairs are fantastic. They give the restaurant a funky modern feel, you can dine alfresco in the summer and the food and chilled red wine is delicious!



Strolling through Camden Passage. It has so many unusual boutiques, restaurants and coffee shops. You can spend all day from breakfast to dinner in a different eatery.



A LOST HOUR...

A Barbershop Fizz at ’69 Colebrooke Row. This bar is a really chic, understated and old school with stacks of atmosphere and a drop dead drinks menu and is discretely located next to Islington Green.



MOST FABULOUS PROPERTY...

Corsica Street. This five bedroom house next to Highbury Fields has wonderful light and terraces off the bedrooms and an enchanting landscaped garden. £1,595,000

M

N1

y neighbours and I have recently been considering the terms of our leases and have calculated that the landlord is charging more than 100% when adding up the service charge percentages of each of our f lats. Is it possible to vary our leases?

A lease is an agreement between a landlord and tenant and its terms are binding on both parties. In order to vary the lease you will require the consent of each party to each lease. You do not say if whether or not you have approached your landlord to highlight the discrepancies in your leases and assume that your service charge demands confi rm that more than 100% is being recovered by the landlord.

You may consider approaching the landlord to agree a variation to your leases otherwise you will be required to make an application to the Leasehold Valuation Tribunal (LVT) for an order that the lease terms be varied. There are only certain grounds upon which the

STYLISH BOUTIQUE...

Colibri on Upper Street. Quirky and affordable menswear by unusual designers. Great quality and very original clothing not seen anywhere else.

PHILIP MACK, BRANCH MANAGER ISLINGTON, FARON SUTARIA 020 7354 9737; FARONSUTARIA.CO.UK

HEMA ANAND FROM COLMAN COYLE, GIVES HER EXPERT ADVICE ON ALL YOUR LEGAL PROPERTY QUESTIONS which could include an application to the LVT will consider varying leases and LVT to determine if the charges have which would include calculating service been reasonable and whether you could charges to ensure that each leaseholder’s rely on the fact that more money has contribution does not add up to been charged than incurred. more than 100%. There are different applications that can be made to vary a lease and each Contact property partner depends on the Hema Anand with no obligation circumstances. on (0)20 7354 3000 or email As an aside, if the landlord has hema.anand@colmancoyle.com been demanding too much money, then there may be recourse to recover  www.colmancoyle.com the sums that have 80 Upper Street, Islington, N1 0NU been overpaid,

ASK THE EXPERTS

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Hamptons Islington Lettings Lettings. 020 7717 5455 islingtonlettings@hamptons-int.com

Hamptons City Lettings Lettings. 020 7717 5437 citylettings@hamptons-int.com Hamptons City Sales Sales. 020 7717 5435 citysales@hamptons-int.com

Chandlery House, Walk - £565,000 - Leasehold Commercial StreetGowers E1 - £525 perE1 week

A beautifully refurbished and spaciousinone bedroom apartment with This well presented 2 bedroom apartment Gowers Walk offers a wealth of large balcony infeatures the popular Exchange development benefiting warehouse including exposedBuilding brickwork, and comes with a securefrom 24 hour concierge. underground parking space.

Jerusalem EC1V - Share of Freehold Star Place Passage E1W - £799 per- £435,000 week A beautiful withbuilding a large in terrace offering stunning Set on the toptwo floorbedroom of a Gradeapartment II-listed period the heart of Clerkenwell, waterside views ofone St.bedroom Katharine Docks, modern fittings this well presented would be the perfectfixtures home orand rental investment. throughout and 24 hour concierge.

HighTimber Street EC1 EC4 -- £675 per week Cathedral Lodge, Leasehold - £475,000 exceptionally spacious unmodernised 1 bedroomstyle Square Mile AThis refurbished two bedroom apartment in the warehouse Globe View apartment iswith on the 5th floor of an extremely popular lift-serviced building development a balcony overlooking the stunning atrium. with concierge and parking.

Creechurch LaneRoad, EC3 - WC2 £410 per week Charing Cross - Leasehold - £725,000 A 2 bed bedroom apartment located on the 3rd of a lift serviced One apartment in this excellent location in floor the middle of the City ofperiod London, mansiondistance block close to Oxford Street. Ideal access to central London walking to Tower Hill, Liverpool Streetfor and Spitalfields. and the Theatre district.

Brewery Square,Apartments, EC1V - £695 Per Long Let – Long Let The Wallpaper N1Week - £995– per week AThis beautifully finished and modern two bedroom well proportioned vast two bedroom property offers overproperty 1500 sq.with ft. of space and rooms, wooden floorsquality and outside space.and Thisfittings property benefits fromintegrated underground benefits from high fixtures throughout, media system, decked garden parking, and a 24large hour concierge facility.and two bathrooms.

Wharton Perweek Week––Long LongLet Let ChadwellStreet, Street,WC1X EC1R - £1195 £725 per Hamptons’ pleased offerperiod this stunning familywith homehigh benefiting from high Bright andare airy splitto level conversion quality fixtures quality/contemporary fixtures and fittings throughout, retaining it’s original and fittings throughout whilst offering fantasticwhilst access to the City, Angel/ features, and is only from the amenities of Amwell Street, Exmouth Market, Upper Street and minutes Exmouth Market.

Upper Street, Kings Cross/St. Pancras and Angel Tube Station.

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PROPERTY

IN THEIR

OWN WORDS PHOTOGRAPHY: ARMAND HOUGH IAMFOTOGRAFIE.COM

can honestly say that in my 14 year career in property, Islington is by far the most vibrant, exciting and diverse borough I’ve ever had the pleasure of plying my trade in.

While rents in much of the UK fell marginally last year, Islington appears to have thrived as a borough, benefitting from tenants’ continued desire to be within close proximity to the Square Mile, amongst other things. Chesterton Humberts reported that rental prices increased by an average of 7% last year across all property types and I predict that this sort of growth will continue throughout 2013.

As London’s population continues to grow, Islington is increasingly being recognised as the area that has something for everyone, especially when it comes to property. Whether it is the feeling of antiquity offered by the former almshouses on Lonsdale Square, the simple but elegant period conversions that dominate much of the area, or the new developments that have sprung up over the last few years – N1 has it all!

Actually, I find myself asking what we don’t have.

Could we be lacking in history and architectural charm? I don’t think so!

Islington’s nickname back in the day was ‘the dairy of London’, which referred to a collection of communities that kept cattle in open fields. As a result of the great developments in the 19th century, London’s expansion happened quickly and Islington was transformed into a residential area that incorporated some of the most picturesque squares and handsome tree-lined streets

that London has to offer.

Is it transport? No, Islington is a hub of transport links with Angel underground station at one end of trendy Upper Street and Highbury & Islington at the other end, not to mention the numerous Overground stations and bus routes which take you directly to the City and West End, and if it’s Paris for the weekend, then the Eurostar is right here too!

Is it lacking in personality? Not a chance!

From vibrant coffee shops, theatre shows, the unique night life and trendy high street shopping to a farmers market on Saturday and not forgetting those lazy organic Sunday afternoon pub roasts, Islington is the perfect place for it all.

Location-wise, Islington is perfectly surrounded by some of the best spots in London including Camden, Hoxton, Shoreditch, Clerkenwell and Finsbury - all offering unique properties just a hop, skip and a jump away.

An important question remains; can such a central London area offer a sense of community? Well, one thing I have noticed about Islington from working here as well as living here is that although a lot of people coming here are new to the area, most of Chesterton Humberts’ repeat business comes from people who already live here and wish to stay. In my opinion, when an area continues to attract those who have known it the longest then you have the principal elements for an enduring community spirit.

Islington is the full package and I wouldn’t want to live or work anywhere else.

020 7226 4221; chestertonhumberts.com

‘‘

‘‘

I

LOUISE NICHOLSON, LETTINGS DIRECTOR, CHESTERTON HUMBERTS, ISLINGTON

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PROPERTY

BENTLEY PRIORY STANMORE

NEW BUILD

ROUND-UP

Bentley Priory Stanmore, just 35 minutes from London’s Bond Street station, is home to a spectacular 57-acre parkland estate and a suite of new homes and apartments that are intelligently crafted to provide an exceptional standard of luxury living and enduring build quality.

The historic site boasts meticulously restored Italian Gardens, nine acres of intriguing woodland, 12 acres of natural parkland and four miles of meandering footpaths and is close to North London’s top schools, exclusive leisure clubs and beautiful golf courses.

Prices start from £799,950 for a 2 bedroom apartment in the Walled Garden Court.

0208 950 5079; bentleypriorystanmore.com

IXIA SHOREDITCH

Ixia, Crest Nicholson’s new flagship development in Shoreditch, combines contemporary design with clever technology, both externally and internally, to create a striking and stylish development.

Located just minutes from Old Street Roundabout in N1, the development comprises a mix of 48 private one and two-bedroom apartments and two and threebedroom penthouses and 22 affordable apartments. The open-plan apartments have been designed specifically for buyers seeking a home that offers a contemporary interior and highend specification in a hip London location. A fabulous new show apartment is available to view.

Prices at Ixia start from £384,950 for a one-bedroom apartment, £595,000 for a two-bedroom apartment and from £650,000-£1,250,000 for two and three-bedroom penthouses.

Sales & Marketing Suite, 120-132 East Road, N1 6AA; 020 7101 0214; www.ixialondon.co.uk 96

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LEONARD STREET EC2

NOW 80% SOLD

WHERE CITY SOPHISTICATION MEETS SHOREDITCH COOL Our 45 luxury 1 and 2 bedroom apartments and three stunning penthouses offer superbly designed, spacious interiors on the edge of The City, with the hip hangouts of Hoxton and Shoreditch just 5 minutes away.

P R I C E S STA RT AT ÂŁ5 9 0,0 0 0 Marketing suite and show apartment open daily.

28 Leonard Street, London EC2A 4BY (closest tube station is Old Street) Details and prices are correct at time of going to press. All distances according to walkit.com

0333 666 2535

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leonardstreet@londonsquare.co.uk www.londonsquare.co.uk

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S AI HU NI R NG RY AP ! LA AR ST TM EN T M RE

Photography from development

Computer generated image

Map not to scale

21 WAPPING LANE E1

Quatro - Now Viewing The last remaining 3 bedroom Shared Ownership apartments in trendy and desirable Wapping. Quatro will provide an exceptional central London address within easy reach of the Thames and the many amenities on offer.

Prices start from ÂŁ122,500* Scan me to find out more about Quatro

To book an appointment call 020 8357 4444 or email sales@nhhg.org.uk and quote ACA01 *Based on a 25% share of a 3 bedroom property with a full market value of ÂŁ490,000.

21 WAPPING LANE E1

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PROPERTY

PROFILE

MOVING IN

NOTHING’S BETTER THAN THE INSIDE SCOOP. LOCAL AGENTS GIVE THEIR RECOMMENDATIONS...

INTERIOR INSPIRATION

Nick Moore, Sales Manager of Cluttons, Islington 020 7354 6666; cluttons.com/london Aria on Barnsbury Street has been at the cutting edge of home and fashion for over two decades.

From a potato peeler to a comfy armchair, Aria stocks a huge range of contemporary homeware and lifestyle accessories to suit every budget.

KIDS

James Marshall, Sales Manager of Kinleigh Folkard & Hayward, Islington 020 7226 2487; kfh.co.uk I think kids need green, open spaces and in Islington there are a few - Highbury Fields is the largest and most popular and many offer opportunities for spotting wildlife, playing sports, playing in the playgrounds etc.

LOCAL STREET

Gemma Farrelly, Lettings Manager of Currell, Islington 020 7288 9109; currell.com Camden Passage, originally famous for its antiques shops and hugely popular with overseas antiques buyers, is now starting to diversify with jewellery, knitwear and even chocolate shops. However, the quirky array of boutiques and stalls ensures it maintains its unique charm.

LITTLE KNOWN FACT

Hamish Allen, Area Sales Manager of Winkworth, Islington 020 7354 2480; winkworth.co.uk Islington has the highest proportion of singletons in England & Wales with nearly 60% of residents not in a relationship. Forget dating websites- if you’re looking for love head straight to Islington’s bars.

LOCAL HANGOUT

Michael Woolley, Sales Manager of Stirling Ackroyd, Shoreditch 020 7749 3838; stirlingackroyd.com The Book Club on Leonard Street fuses lively, creative events and late night drinking seven days a week with an alternative menu of brain-teasing and mindexpanding thought for food in the form of workshops, talks, cultural showcases, parties, ping pong, and the best in new music.

TIME OUT FOR MUM

Philip Mack, Branch Manager of Faron Sutaria, Islington 020 7354 9737; faronsutaria.co.uk The Hummingbird Bakery offers a full range of Americanstyle baked treats and desserts including cupcakes, layer cakes, brownies, pies, cheesecakes, muffins and much more and whilst not exclusively for Mums it definitely catches the eye.

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WINKWORTH LAUNCHES NEW WEBSITE

Th n n o han n our ana n a ent e dent al ana e ent Co er al ana e ent lo ana e ent

Winkworth have launched a brand new website that is set to become a market leader. With a wealth of unique features and search facilities akin to the big portals, the website is functionality at its best. Clean, clear and comprehensive- navigating through the website is quick and easy, making searches simple and efficient.

Focusing on the needs of the individual, the site feels as if it has been tailor-made for every user while also showcasing Winkworth’s uniqueness, passion and local knowledge. And as well as the main site, each office has a microsite that contains a wealth of information about the areas and properties the Winkworth team not only work in, but live in and love.

Amber Rampley, Director of Marketing comments: “Our new website was built with the end-user in mind at all times and we’re incredibly excited about it. The look of the website reflects our new brand strategy and the search is designed to return the results that the user actually wants. We’ve really focussed on our local expertise, too. Every Winkworth office has their own microsite, packed with local insight and information, which will be a great resource for buyers and tenants moving into an area.

ur ded ated tea o ro ert ana er a ed on er treet ro de a roa t e ro e onal er e n all a e t o ro ert ana e ent To find out what Currell ana e ent an do or ou lea e all hael aul on or e a l aul urrell o

Currell Management

The feedback has been great so far, but the site won’t stand still. We have lots of plans for it in 2013!”

020 7355 0220; winkworth.co.uk

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SALES FO

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Parkhurst Road, London, N7 | £360,000 Leasehold A spacious two bedroom split level apartment situated in this excellent development within walking distance of Holloway/Caledonian Road tube stations, shops, bars and restaurants. EPC=F • Excellent condition • Two double bedrooms • Fitted kitchen/dining room

FO

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• Communal gardens • Under floor heating throughout • Second & third floor

LE

Tufnell Park, London, N7 | £595,000 Freehold A bright and airy chain free contemporary style house, on the borders of KentishTown and Tufnell Park, arranged over three floors. A must to view. EPC=D • Contemporary house • Three floors • Two bedrooms

• Two bathrooms (one en-suite) • Large kitchen/diner • Private balcony

Evolving. Improving. Succeeding.

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407-409 Holloway Road London N7 6HP t: 020 7607 5001 drivers.co.uk

LETTINGS LE

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Bartholomew Villas, London, NW5 | £425.00 per week A charming two bedroom garden flat converted from a substantial period property. This bright and sunny apartment offers two double bedrooms, kitchen, bathroom, a large lounge area and a secluded rear garden. EPC=D • Period property • Two double bedrooms • Very well presented

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• Secluded rear garden • Local amenities near by • Spacious lounge

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The Beaux Arts Building, London, N7 | £430.00 per week A beautiful two bedroom duplex garden apartment located in this highly desirable Grade II listed building just off Holloway Road. The apartment features double bedrooms, fitted kitchen and communal gardens.

EPC=F • Two double bedrooms • Grade 11 listed building • Split level

020 7607 5001 drivers.co.uk Drivers and Norris C&A FEB.indd 3

• Allocated parking • Communal gardens • 24 hour concierge

Call Us Today For A Free Market Appraisal 22/01/2013 11:28

CurrellResidential

£635,000 Leasehold Gainsborough Studios, N1 • arger, 1 1 sq. ft. two bedrooms • Balcony, two luxurious bathrooms • plit le el reception and dining area • ecure underground parking

£1,795,000, Leasehold Kingsway Place, EC1 • Three to four bedrooms • Con ersion apartment •

93 sq ft

• ecure parking

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£699,950 Share of Freehold Baalbec Road, N5 • Two bedroom garden flat • Backing onto Highbury Fields • 879 sq.ft. two bathrooms • Modernised and well presented

£1,100,000 Leasehold Waterloo Terrace, N1 • A luxurious 1339 sq. ft. duplex apartment • Three double bedrooms, two modern bathrooms, balcony • Open plan reception, dining and fitted kitchen • Central Islington location

020 7226 4200

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islington@currell.com

www.currell.com

21/01/2013 16:45

Stirling Ackroyd All around the City SE1

WC2

£595 pw

£425 pw

BANKSIDE LETTINGS Stunning apartment comprising 1 large double bed with en-suite bathroom, built in storage, hard wood floors, exposed brickwork & large reception.

BLOOMSBURY LETTINGS Quiet, well presented 1 bed apartment comprising a bright reception room, separate kitchen and excellent fitted storage in the heart of Covent Garden.

EC1

EC2

£950 pw

£1,450pw

CLERKENWELL LETTINGS Stunning 3 bed a 30 ft. semi-open plan kitchen & reception, high ceilings, a wealth of storage, secure parking & a sleek and stylish finish throughout.

SHOREDITCH LETTINGS 2,800 sq ft 2 bed with highly spacious reception, large archway windows, wooden floors & an open plan fully integrated kitchen with solid granite work tops.

SHOREDITCH 020 7749 3838

CLERKENWELL 020 7549 0606

BANKSIDE 020 7940 3888

BLOOMSBURY 020 7256 3244

HACKNEY 020 7749 3807

HAMPSTEAD/ST JOHN’S WOOD 020 7748 5224

IBIZA 0034 971 326 788

ISTANBUL +90 (0)212 322 7171

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SE1

W1F

£629,950

£3,600,000

BANKSIDE SALES Wonderful two bedroom apartment with high ceilings, large windows and a superb specification including solid oak floors.

BLOOMSBURY SALES 2,665 sq ft 4 bed offering extensive luxurious accommodation, spanning 5 floors. Superb entertaining space, large open plan kitchen, library, gallery and an amazing dining room.

EC1

E2

£1,595,000

£2,100,000

CLERKENWELL SALES Approx. 2000 sq. ft. rare & stunning, well-proportioned loft flat boasting a wealth of character including exposed brick, wood floor, steel girders and high ceilings.

SHOREDITCH SALES Fantastic opportunity to purchase freehold building currently being used as office space over ground & basement level, the upper 3 floors contain 3 self-contained flats.

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