CITY & ANGEL JANUARY 2014

ABSOLUTELY

JANUARY 2014 £3.95

THE HEALTH ISSUE

THE PERFECT YEAR CULTURAL

HIGHLIGHTS FOR 2014

RADIO DAYS

IN BED WITH ANNIE MAC

Winter

Whites January's new elegance

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ABSOLUTELY

CONTENTS JAN UARY

2014

04 EDITOR’S LETTER 06 WHAT’S ON 

LOCAL

10 CULTURAL CALENDAR What to look forward to in 2014

14 ANNIE GETS HER TUNE Radio 1 favourite Annie Mac



STYLE

21 SQUARE PANTS

When checks ruled the runway

22 THE INBETWEENER Transitional fashion for January

31 MARK MAKER

Sharmadean Reid on building her nail empire

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FOOD

53 PUB GRUB

Ten of the cosiest pubs in the area

54 DETOX IN A BOX

Lily Simpson, the brains behind The Detox Kitchen

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INTERIORS 59 SPA TOWN

Bespoke bathrooms to covet

67 ANIMAL MAGIC

Absolutely’s favourite animal cushions

Find us online @zest-media.com

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ABSOLUTELY EDITOR EDITORIAL ASSISTANT EDITORIAL INTERNS PROPERTY EDITOR TRAVEL EDITOR ART DIRECTOR

HELEN BARON CATHERINE HALES ELLIE RICHARDS HUGO HUNTER GEORGIE LANE-GODFREY RAY SEARLE

PRODUCTION MANAGER

STEWART HYDE

EDITORIAL DESIGNER

ANDREW MAVIN

MID-WEIGHT DESIGNER

GEMMA ISTEED

PRODUCTION DESIGNER

TAHIR KAPUCU

ART WORKER

EKREM YILMAZ

JUNIOR DESIGNER

EDWARD TAYLOR REBECCA NOONAN

PRODUCTION CONTROLLER PHOTOGRAPHERS

EDITOR’S let ter

W

JANUARY 2014

hen you think of the Good Life, what springs to mind (the lovable seventies sitcom with Richard Briers aside)? Is the Good Life a high standard of living with plenty of creature comforts? Or do you take the Socratic view that material advantages are superfluous when one knows and appreciates true beauty, true justice and true friendship? Broadly speaking, the two views seem to me to represent the realistic and the idealistic – so which to aim for?

If there is a realm where these two viewpoints overlap, it may be in our awareness and enjoyment of our mental and physical wellbeing. And so, in this issue, the first of 2014, we take a look at some of the ways in which to make meaningful changes to our lifestyles, perhaps even breaking bad habits or undesirable cycles. Our Body Talk feature takes stock of some of the health checks you might want to investigate in a bid to ensuring a fitter, happier year ahead. Of course, the Good Life is as much about the process as the end result, and in the words of writer Cormac McCarthy, ‘There is no such joy within the tavern as upon the road thereto’. With that in mind, many of the ideas and services featured are about helping you to find sustainable ways in which to stay well amid the pressures of modern city life.

Elsewhere in this issue, you’ll also find plenty of ideas and inspiration about everything from interiors and fashion to cultural goings-on, so you can make it an enlightened New Year as well as a happy, healthy one.

Enjoy January.

FLANNEL_PANEL.indd 4

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GEORGE RAMSAY KRISTIAN LIBETTA TOLGA SAYLAN ALEXANDRA HUNTER

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PROPERTY MANAGER

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FINANCE MANAGER

MARIANNE MCFADDEN

FINANCE DIRECTOR

ALEXANDRA HVID

MARKETING MANAGER DIRECTOR MANAGING DIRECTOR

LEAH DAY GREG HUGHES SHERIF SHALTOUT

For advertising enquiries please call 020 7704 0588 or email: advertising@zest-media.com

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ON THE COVERS:

City & Angel: Yuvna Kim white long sleeve dress; yuvnakim.com Made to order, POA East & Borough & Docklands: Lickerish

Zest Media London Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Zest Media London Ltd. take no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved. www.zest-media.com

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WHAT’S ON DON’T MISS RICHARD II



UNTIL 25 JANUARY Everyone’s favourite Dr Who, David Tennant, takes on the role of a lifetime in Shakespeare’s epic history, as the monarch who started his reign with everything to lose and finished it by doing just that. Slowly dragged down from his seat of power by a combination of hubris and bad decisions, Richard comes to the stickiest of ends. An excellent opportunity to catch a masterpiece in the comfort of your local cinema.

Barbican, Silk Street, EC2Y; barbican.org.uk

TELLING TALES

THROUGHOUT JANUARY This group exhibition features a mix of UK and international artists, all of whom incorporate words and language into their work. Using media ranging from neon and found metal to the pages of religious texts, artists including Sally Fuerst, David Buckingham and Meg Hitchcock explore the role played in art by narrative and typography ever since the heyday of cave paintings and Egyptian hieroglyphics.

Scream Gallery, Eastcastle House, 27-28 Eastcastle Street, W1; screamlondon.com

HANNAH HÖCH FROM 15 JANUARY

A member of the Dadaist movement in twenties Berlin, Hannah Höch was a pioneer in the development of the 20th century collage, splicing together images from fashion magazines and illustrated journals to provide a fascinating commentary on a time of sweeping social change.

This exhibition – the first major Höch show in UK history – brings together over 100 works from major international collections.

Whitechapel Gallery, 77-82 Whitechapel High Street, E1; whitechapel.org

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J A N U A R Y

THE BOOK THIEF 31ST JANUARY

Based on the bestselling book of the same name, The Book Thief is set in Germany in 1939 and tells the story of Liesel Meminger, a young German girl who is sent to live with foster parents after her father leaves and her mother is forced to give her up. As in the novel, the film is narrated by Death, who first spots Liesel at the funeral of her brother stealing a copy of The Gravedigger’s Handbook in spite of the fact that she cannot read. Although initially suspicious of her new foster parents she and Hans forge a strong bond, though the diminutive thief remains wary of Rosa. The personal and public storylines intertwine as Liesel learns to read with the help of local boy Rudy Steiner and becomes increasingly aware of the changes happening in Germany. This awareness is compounded by the arrival of Jewish Max Vandenburg, whom Hans and Rosa conceal in their basement to protect him from discovery by the Nazis.

A heart wrenching portrayal of the devastation wreaked by the Second World War and Hitler’s rise to power on a small German community, rich and poor, men and women, Jews and Christians alike.

SLAVA’S SNOW SHOW UNTIL 5 JANUARY

Slava’s Snow Show has met with incredible success all around the world and returns to London this winter for an unprecedented third season; this is your last chance to catch it in action. Set in a magical, dreamlike world in which ‘a cobweb envelops the audience and one tiny piece of paper begins a heart-stopping blizzard of snow’, it’s suitable for children aged eight and upwards – a spectacular production that should see all the family smiling.

Directed by Brian Percival Starring Sophie Nelissé, Geoffey Rush

AVIEMORE SLED DOG RALLY 25 - 26 JAN

Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, SE1; southbankcentre.co.uk

OUT OF TOWN



You might think that you’d have to jet off to Lapland or the North Pole to watch sled dog racing, but you’d be wrong. The furthest North you have to go is bonny Scotland, to the forests round Aviemore, and you’ll be able to watch the 230 teams whipping round the banks of Loch Morlich. The hasty huskies reach speeds of 20mph and it takes some teams little more than fifteen minutes to complete the four mile course. Five breeds of sled dog are eligible to enter: Siberian Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes, Samoyeds, Greenland Huskies and Canadian Eskimo Dogs. So, if you were planning on entering your highly trained team of Pomeranians, you will be disappointed.

Loch Morlich, Cairngorms, Scotland; siberianhuskyclub.com

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J A N U A R Y

BOOK REVIEW PRISCILLA

BY NICHOLAS SHAKESPEARE The most unbelievable stories are often the true ones. Author Nicholas Shakespeare never imagined that when he discovered a box of documents belonging to his late aunt they would contain the story of a glamorous and morally ambiguous young woman surviving in occupied France during the Second World War. Love, espionage, daring escapes and double crosses – it reads like the synopsis of an outrageous thriller but is actually the true story of a young woman called Priscilla.

HOLLYWOOD UNSEEN

BY DANCE ROBERT

MUST READ

 SHUNGA: SEX AND PLEASURE IN JAPANESE ART

EDITED BY TIMOTHY CLARK, ANDREW GERSTLE, AKI ISHIGAMI & AKIKO YANO Until the 19th century, Japan (which practiced the Shinto religion) was essentially cut off from Europe. Unlike Christianity, which shamed the human body, Shinto venerated sexual enjoyment.

Taboo in westerned Japan for much of the 20th century, these exquisitely detailed prints and paintings inspired artists Picasso, Toulouse-Lautrec and Aubrey Beardsley.

With the spread of woodblock printing, in the 17th century, Shunga became more freely available and a huge number were produced and circulated. For 300 years even renowned Japanese artists, including Hokusai, experimented with this erotic art form and it continues to inspire contemporary Japanese artists. Frequently tender and witty, Shunga celebrates erotic pleasure in all its forms in colourful prints and paintings. This catalogue accompanies the exhibition of Shunga art showing at the British Museum, until 5th January 2014. Parents should note that Shunga are not suitable for children under 16.

British Museum Press, £50, by Alice Coke

With our culture of nip slips and Perez Hilton, we see more of celebrities private lives than one ever could have thought possible. Such was not always the case; Dance Robert’s book reveals the carefully controlled exposure by the great Hollywood studios of their biggest stars.

The book showcases several never before seen images of stars from Rita Hayworth to Humphrey Bogart showing a glimpse into their ordinary lives – which were actually just as staged as any pictures used to promote their movies.

AN OFFICER AND A SPY

BY ROBERT HARRIS Set in Paris in 1895 Harris’s new novel tells the story of two people whose lives diverge and spiral off in opposite directions.

Picquart, the officer, is given a promotion making him the youngest colonel in the French army whereas Dreyfus, the spy, ends up imprisoned on Devil’s Island and sentenced to a life of solitary confinement.

As time passes Picquart slowly beings to realise that all is not as it seems as his efforts to make a fuller investigation are rebuffed and eventually lead to his own undoing.

Suspenseful and insightful, Harris’s examination of the famous resonates with the modern reader.getting too fragmented.

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20/09/2013 14:52

2014 THE BEST IS YET TO COME

JANUARY QUIDAM

Tempted to dump the new year diet already? Us too. A trip to Cirque du Soleil’s Quidam should have us merrily back on the wagon though. You might not come out looking like an acrobat, but you’ll be inspired to try.

4 Jan - 9 Feb; Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore, SW7; royalalberthall.com

I, THE SYRIAN

Diaries at the ready, Absolutely has prepared a round-up that’ll keep you busy for the next twelve months… enjoy!

In his first UK solo exhibition, artist Tammam Azzam explores creativity, destruction and the fragility of a war-torn Syria. A powerful statement from an artist who fled the country seven months after the start of the revolution.

Finishes 30 Jan; Ayyama Gallery, 143 New Bond Street, 1st Floor, W1; ayyamgallery.com

FEBRUARY BAILEY’S STARDUST

Life is never more glamorous than in a David Bailey photograph – and if you don’t believe us, go and check out this landmark exhibition. All images have been picked and printed by the man himself.

6 Feb - 1 Jun; National Portrait Gallery, St Martin’s Place, WC2H; npg.org.uk

HOLBORN DINING ROOM

MICK JAGGER BY DAVID BAILEY, 1964 © DAVID BAILEY

Valentine’s Day dinner can be a bit of a drag at double the price and half the space. Take your paramour to the Holborn

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ABSOLUTELY ARTS & CULTURE

MAY RHS CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW

MARCH THE HUMAN RIGHTS WATCH FILM FESTIVAL

You know that spring has officially sprung when the Chelsea Flower Show comes round again. Glorious gardens abound.

A festival dedicated to engendering discussion and inciting action as well as telling the stories of those who are too often overlooked.

Thought-provoking and often deeply moving.

20 – 29 Mar; Alternating between: The Barbican, Silk Street, EC2; The Ritzy Picturehouse, Coldharbour Lane, SW2; The Curzon, 99 Shaftesbury Avenue, W1; ff.hrw.org

20 - 24 May; Royal Hospital Gardens, Royal Hospital Road, SW3; rhs.org.uk

CITY SOCIAL

Dining Room, part of the newly opened (and very swanky) Rosewood London, for some guaranteed glamour.

252 High Holborn, WC1; rosewoodhotels.com

PANCAKE DAY

The best thing about Lent?

The stuffing your face bit before.

Absolutely’s three favourite pancake joints…

La Petite Bretagne 5-7 Beadon Road, W6; lapetitebretagne.co.uk

8 Feb – 9 Mar; Princess of Wales Conservatory, Kew Gardens, TW9; kew.org

MARCH FATAL ATTRACTION

We’ll be snapping up tickets to this gripping thriller, adapted for the stage by James Dearden (who also wrote the original 1987 film) if only to find out whether in this version, the bunny makes it.

8 Mar – 21 Jun; Theatre Royal Haymarket, 18 Suffolk Street, SW1; trh.co.uk

A VIEW FROM THE BRIDGE

Expect an avant garde production of Arthur Miller’s great American tragedy from Belgian director Ivo van Hove.

Book soon, tickets will sell fast.

ORCHIDS AT KEW: A PLANT-HUNTER’S PARADISE

It seems as if summer is still light years away, except at Kew Gardens, where the sun’s always shining (kind of). Take in some beautiful blooms and feel refreshed.

APRIL

The Blues Kitchen, 111 Camden High Street, NW1; theblueskitchen.com

4 Apr – 24 May; The Young Vic, 66 The Cut, SE1; youngvic.org

Date TBC. No address released yet, but word on the street is that it’ll be housed in Tower 42, 25 Old Broad St, EC2

MUSEUMS AT NIGHT

THE GLAMOUR OF ITALIAN FASHION 1945 - 2014

Tracing the rise of Italy as a world fashion centre.

Beautiful gowns and photography help to illustrate this truly iconic story.

5 Apr - 27 Jul 2014, The V&A, Cromwell Road, SW7; vam.ac.uk

EASTER

The Breakfast Club 2-4 Rufus Street, N1; thebreakfastclubcafes.com

Pollen Street Social made fine dining fun; now Jason Atherton is expanding the Social circle to include an outpost in the City. We’re really rather excited. Go for the kind of food you’d sell your Nan for.

Treat your loved ones (or yourself) to some truly outstanding chocolates this Easter. Our pick would be one of the gloriously decadent boxes from Artisan du Chocolat (hint hint).

20 Apr; artisanduchocolat.com

Visit galleries and museums after hours and get a different perspective on your favourite London spaces. The exhibits probably won’t come to life, but we can hope...

15 May - 17 May; for full programme and venue info see culture24.org.uk

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JUNE JUNE FESTIVALS

JULY PRIMROSE: RUSSIAN COLOUR PHOTOGRAPHY

Tracing the development of colour photography as well as presenting a beautiful portrait of life in Russia from 1850 onwards.

Festival season is in full swing, and you don’t even have to leave London to make the most of it.

Here are three of our favourites…

Field Day, 7 - 8 Jun; fielddayfestivals.com Crystal Palace Overground Festival, 27 - 30 Jun; crystalpalacefestival.org Polo in the Park, 6 - 8 Jun; polointheparklondon.com

24 Jul - 28 Sep; The Photographers’ Gallery, 16 - 18 Ramillies St, W1; thephotographersgallery.org.uk

THE MINIATURIST

Amsterdam, 17th century, Nella has been married off to wealthy merchant Johannes. Living in a household full of secrets, she becomes obsessed with the idea that a local miniaturist can tell her fate. A book so compelling it caused a six-way bidding war among publishers.

The Miniaturist by Jessie Burton, published 3 Jul; picador.co.uk

OUTDOOR CINEMA

Ah summer, the perfect time to watch a film outdoors. Grab a blanket, a bottle of wine and a picnic and pray for clear skies.

Cinema Under the Stars, Dulwich Park, College Road, SE21; southwark.gov.uk

SEPTEMBER HENLEY LITERARY FESTIVAL

AUGUST A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE

Gillian Anderson as Blanche DuBois? Yes please. Tennessee Williams’ classic gets the Young Vic treatment.

Dates TBC; The Young Vic, 66 The Cut, SE1; youngvic.org

Word on the street has it that Henley is the Glasto of the book world. Past speakers have included Jojo Moyes, Irvine Welsh and Lisa Jewell as well as Giles Coren, Rachel Johnson and Emma Freud. See you at the front.

COLOUR HILAIRE-GERMAIN-EDGAR DEGAS (1834 – 1917) COMBING THE HAIR (‘LA COIFFURE’), ABOUT 1896 © THE NATIONAL GALLERY, LONDON

29 Sep - 5 Oct; for full programme and venue info see henleyliteraryfestival.co.uk

The first of its kind in the UK, the National Gallery will dedicate each room of this exhibition to a different colour of the spectrum (plus a room for gold and silver). You’ll be able to trace the history of each colour from the early Renaissance to the Impressionist movement.

18 Jun – 7 Sep; The National Gallery, Trafalgar Square, WC2; nationalgallery.org.uk

WIMBLEDON

RHS HAMPTON COURT PALACE FLOWER SHOW

AUGUST NOTTING HILL CARNIVAL

Can Murray do it again? Will the weather be as glorious as last year? We’ll see you in the queue for Centre Court...

23 Jun - 6 Jul; Church Road, Wimbledon, SW19; wimbledon.com

Is there any better way to spend a summer’s day than at Hampton Court Palace? We doubt it... unless you have hay-fever.

8 - 13 Jul; East Molesey, KT8; rhs.org.uk

There’s dancing, there’s singing and there’s some killer jerk chicken.

We’re already excited for London’s biggest party.

24 - 25 Aug; thenottinghillcarnival.com

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ABSOLUTELY ARTS & CULTURE

HENRI MATISSE: THE CUT-OUTS

Matisse really knew how to throw shapes. Catch this vibrant and dramatic exhibition before it finishes!

Ending 7 Sep; Tate Modern, Bankside, SE1; tate.org.uk

OCTOBER REMBRANDT: THE FINAL YEARS

A unique chance to see the work of a master from one of the most creative and expressive periods of his life.

15 Oct – 18 Jan 2015; The National Gallery, Trafalgar Square, WC2N; nationalgallery.org.uk

FRIEZE

SEPTEMBER

OPEN HOUSE WEEKEND

Take a peek behind the closed doors of some of London’s great landmarks.

With over 800 buildings, walks and tours available just make sure you’re wearing comfortable shoes. 20-21 Sep, various locations; londonopenhouse.org

THE EFG LONDON JAZZ FESTIVAL Luminaries from the art world converge on London for this annual fair. Talks, exhibitions and pop-up projects make it a good day out for us neophytes as well.

DECEMBER CHRISTOPHER KANE

NOVEMBER

An exploration of the life and work of Canadian modernist painter Emily Carr. Largely overlooked in her lifetime, the exhibition brings together over 100 of Carr’s paintings and sketches and highlights the influence of Indigenous art on her work.

1 Nov – 22 Feb 2015; Dulwich Picture Gallery, College Road, SE21; dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk

ICE SKATING

Date TBC; interstellar-movie.com

16–19 Oct; Regent’s Park, NW1; for full programme and venue info see friezelondon.com

PAINTING CANADA 2: EMILY CARR AND THE INDIGENOUS ART OF THE NORTHWEST COAST

Knight Rises. Starring Matthew McConaughey and Anne Hathaway.

Live improvised music at venues across London. If jazz is an acquired taste, now is the best time to acquire it.

14 - 23 Nov; for full programme and venue info see londonjazzfestival.org.uk

INTERSTELLAR

Christopher Nolan co-writes and directs this outer-space epic about a group of explorers who use wormholes to travel through the galaxy. The excitement is already building for Nolan’s first film since The Dark

A ripple went round the fashion pond when it was announced that feted Scottish designer Christopher Kane would be opening his first flagship store in London. At the time of going to press, details of the opening were still sparse; what we do know is that it’ll be some time around the end of the year – keep your eyes peeled!

Date TBC, net-a-porter.com

Slippidy slide into 2015. Wrap up warm and look back on a year well spent!

Dates TBC; Natural History Museum, Cromwell Road, SW7; nhm.ac.uk

WINTER WONDERLAND

Enough beer, mulled wine and rides to bring some cheer to any would-be Scrooge. Also enough beer, mulled wine and rides to bring up your supper – you have been warned.

Throughout December; hydeparkwinterwonderland.com

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ANNIE

GETS HER TUNE First, I want to ask if there was some kind of big break moment on your road to becoming a DJ? I suppose the biggest moment for me was getting my Radio 1 show. That afforded me the profile to go out and DJ. I used to DJ before then, in a Saturday night club in Camden – I got paid £70 for doing two hours. But it wasn’t until I got a Radio 1 show that I was getting booked to play gigs.

Has life at the BBC changed since you first started working there?

When I started we were in this slightly

ramshackle building called Yalding House; it was just Radio 1 that lived there and 1Xtra when that started, so it felt like we were our own little thing away from the rest of the BBC. It was old and lived-in – a bit messy – but it was charismatic and there was lots of history there.

Then earlier this year we moved to the brand new, refurbished Broadcasting House. We’re in the penthouse there and it feels like Radio 1 is this glossy, international radio station that means business. In the old place you’d worry about these massive stars coming in because the toilets would smell and the vending machine

NORTH LONDONER AND RADIO 1 FAVOURITE ANNIE MAC ON A CAREER IN MUSIC AND BECOMING A MOTHER would be broken and it was all a bit shabby. Now it looks like somewhere you can be proud of.

Radio 1 is sometimes accused of pandering to a younger and perhaps less discerning market. Do you think there’s any truth in that?

Well, it has to, that’s its remit! With the BBC every station has a remit; you pay your licence fee to be served by the BBC and the BBC has to serve everyone in that bracket. Hopefully there’s a station to cater for everyone. Radio 1’s target market is 15-24 year-olds, but what it tries to do is cater for people younger than that, so that

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ABSOLUTELY PROFILE

 they can grow into Radio 1 and not just start liking it when they’re 20 and grow out of it four years later.

FAVOURITE ALBUM OF ALL TIME?

It’s between Lauryn Hill’s The Mis-education of Lauryn Hill and Van Morrison’s Astral Weeks.

FAVOURITE BAND OR ACT THIS YEAR? I really like Miguel, I think he’s incredible.

FAVOURITE DJ?

My favourite DJ of all time would be DJ Mehdi, a French DJ who passed away a few years ago. He was the most incredible DJ and he always played with a massive smile on his face.

FAVOURITE GIG VENUE IN LONDON?

I know it’s pretty specific…

KOKO in Camden, that’s probably the best; every second month I do a gig at KOKO and we have real fun times there. My favourite line-up there was The Streets, Joker feat.

Jessie Ware, Disclosure and me.

There’s a lot that Radio 1 does that other stations in the BBC don’t do, in terms of their commitment to breaking new talent – do you think that there’s a balance struck between inspiring and entertaining?

That’s what the BBC offers above and beyond commercial radio stations. In the evenings after seven o’clock we have this weird and wonderful time of specialist DJs and documentaries and a talk-show about music. Every corner of alternative music is represented by experts and if you like new music we’ve got every angle covered. Then during the day we play more mainstream music – though if you put a BBC playlist next to, say, a Galaxy playlist or even a Capital playlist, it’s still really alternative compared to those commercial stations. We really do champion new acts.

You recently curated a 200-strong record collection for W Hotels. Could you give a brief overview of the project and how you got involved?

I really liked the idea – which is that you can call down to reception and order up vinyl and a record player from a booklet. I liked the idea of providing musical moments for

people in hotel rooms. I spend loads of time in hotels when I’m on tour and it’s quite lonely sometimes, so it’s nice to provide a little bit of musical solace, I suppose. It was a nice trip down memory lane for me, because I got to go through all my old vinyl and pick out my favourite records and think about the vinyl I didn’t have that I wanted [laughs].

What kind of music did you include – I read that the collection comprises over 200 albums?

We went through all my CDs , sent the list to The W and they let us know what of the ones we had sent were available on vinyl, what they could source. And then there were a couple more, maybe twenty, thirty that we had to fi nd.

I was very conscious of trying to incorporate really classic records. We thought for a bit about putting loads of new stuff in there, and we did put some in that I thought was relevant and interesting, but I really wanted to put a lot of timeless tracks on there. Also, I wanted to put on more long runners than EPs and singles; mostly its albums or long EPs so it will last while you'r in the bath! W asked me for a reason so I went with what I want to do and hope its alright.

You also released an Annie Mac Presents record earlier this year – what was the thinking behind that?

The comps are a way to get something out there that represents me and everything I’m about,

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ABSOLUTELY PROFILE

something people can get their hands on.

Radio shows are lovely but they’re transient, it’s nice to have something that people can keep and own. It’s also about saying ‘this is what I think are the greatest songs of this year’, or the songs of this year that will stand the test of time.

Do you think the digital revolution is a good or bad thing for artists?

Well, of course it’s a bad thing for artists because it costs money to make music and they’re not getting back the money they are spending making it, I suppose. But it’s weird, I feel like it’s undeniable what’s happening.

I don’t feel that the music industry has caught up. I mean, they’re obviously doing their best and things like Spotify are genius. But I just think you can’t

fight it. You have to find a way to work with it, which is why I really admire Spotify and also the BBC’s new tool, Playlister [which allows users to export custom playlists of songs heard on any BBC radio or television show to Spotify or Youtube]. Stuff like that is a good example of the BBC learning to work with a new generation of music consumers.

What has been the craziest or most fun party you’ve ever played?

There was a night in Miami two years ago at the Ultra Music Festival; I had my own stage and by the end of the set everyone I knew at the festival was on stage with me. We all ended up at a party at P Diddy’s house. It was one of the most epic, fun nights. I did four gigs in seven hours and then watched the sun coming up over P Diddy’s swimming pool.

Has everything calmed down a bit since you had your baby?

I haven’t really got back into the swing of proper touring since the baby. I’ve done bits and pieces, but it’s weird that you mention it because today I’ve been thinking about how my American tour next year will be possible as a mother. I’m really lucky in that both me and my partner have really enthusiastic parents who are happy to look after our kid, so there’ll be periods where I’ll be away for a week or so and he’ll be looked after really well.

The Vinyl Collection curated by Annie Mac is the world's first vinyl record collection available via room service delivery to guests at W London - Leicester Square; wlondon.co.uk You can listen to Annie’s show on BBC Radio 1 every Friday from 7pm and Sundays from 10pm

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ABSOLUTELY FASHION

TWEEDY PIE

Marks and Spencer has well and truly won us over with their Best of British range. Take this suit for example. Classic, fashionable and warm, importantly.

The neo-boy look is officially a winner.

Westfield Stratford City, E20; marksandspencer.com

FASHION NOTES

MONCLER FLORAL COATS

These amazing floral coats from the Moncler x Mary Katrantzou AW13 collection are proof that you can look as good on the slopes as off. Don one if you dare; the piste is your runway. £1,250; selfridges.com

STYLE TIP

JUMP UP

The fact that it’s January is not an excuse to slack off in the style stakes. It doesn’t get more statement than this Ingenue Mena jumpsuit. The print is muted, so it’s as sophisticated as it is loud. £120; ingenuelondon.com

CLUTCH CONTROL THE WHITE SHIRT

will never grow old. How can something so simple look SO GOOD? Even pared down, a crisp cotton shirt teamed with denim and chic accessories (such as oversize sunglasses or a petite clutch) is the business. Comes in handy in Winter too, worn under a woolly cardi or jumper.

Radley have proven their style credentials yet again by teaming up with British design talent Holly Fulton. The capsule collection showcases Fulton’s magpie eye for bold, graphic pattern and Radley’s own commitment to well-crafted leather. The trouble is in the choosing...

Stocked at House of Fraser, 68 King William Street, EC4; radley.co.uk

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ABSOLUTELY LONDON

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T O D AY SEARCH FOR

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CELINE

8 9 1 6 3 4 SQUARE PANTS 2 7 5 WHO KNEW THAT LAUNDRY-BAG SQUARES WOULD END UP RULING ON THE RUNWAY? PLAID, HOUNDSTOOTH AND CLASSIC TARTAN? CHECK. GET READY FOR SOME SERIOUS GRID REVERENCE.

1. Vivienne Westwood Red Label Tartan Trousers, £375; matchesfashion.com 2. Eric Bompard Cashmere Jumper, £245; eric-bompard.com 3. Elizabeth and James Plaid Silk Shirt, £265; matchesfashion.com 4. Sophia Webster Penelope Tartan and Patent Leather Pumps, £450; brownsfashion.com 5. Charles Philip Shanghai Tasselled Tartan Slippers, £115; net-a-porter.com 6. Eric Bompard Tartan Scarf, £95; eric-bompard.com 7. Preen by Thornton Bregazzi Red Tartan Bo Biker Jacket, £1,360; avenue32.com 8. No. 21 Plaid Mini-skirt, £275; matchesfashion.com 9. Peter Som Emerald Plaid Silk Trousers, £565; avenue32.com

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Inbetweener The

Revisit the '50s and '60s with the best in transitional fashion

PHOTOGRAPHY: OLGAC BOZALP STYLING: CLEMENTINE KING

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Long satin blue dress, with silk chiffon panel, ÂŁ1,820, Missoni, www.missoni.com

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Green enamel and diamond earrings, £1,300, Jessie Western, 82b Portobello Road W2 6QA, 02072292544 Pink glasses, £279, Transitions for Face-a-Face, www.transitions.com Silk embroidered red drees, £797, Shanghai Tang, www.shanghaitang.com

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Silk embroidered red drees, £797, Shanghai Tang, www.shanghaitang.com White tights, £10.95, Oroblu, www.oroblu.com White shoes, with chunky black heel, £132, Hobbs, 08453133130

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Faux fur deep red coat, £499, Antipodium, www.antipodium.com Black dress with leather front panel, £598, Shanghai Tang, www.shanghaitang.com Pink faux bag with green leather panels and shoulder strap, £605, LAAEL, www.laael.com Sheer black tights, £8.95, Oroblu, www.oroblu.com

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Blue sheepskin waistcoat, £395, Daisy Darche, www.dasiydarche.com Grey top with pleats, £115, Toast, www.toast.co.uk Green tartan trousers, £125, Toast, www.toast.co.uk White Valentino glasses, £185, MARCHON, 0800722020, www.marchon.com Red faux fur bag with pink shoulder strap, £445, LAAEL, www.laael.com Blue ostrich skin slip on shoes, £970, Dorraj, www.dorraj.com

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Faux fur deep red coat, ÂŁ499, Antipodium, www.antipodium.com White patent top, ÂŁ160, Antipodium, www.antipodium.com

Stylist - Clementine King Hair and Make-up - Alice Howlett Photographer's assistant - Bugra Ergil Stylist's assistants - Daisy Aziz Location - Goode and Wright, 271 Portobello Road W11 1LR

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MITCH CLOTHING SIZE 16 - 30 0207 586 0030 | WWW.MITCHCLOTHING.CO.UK | 14 ENGLAND’S LANE, LONDON NW3 4TG

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ABSOLUTELY LOCAL

MARK MAKER CURATOR OF COOL AND FOUNDER OF WAH ON NAILING IT WITH HER MINI-EMPIRE

Tell us about the business; when you started out, did you have any idea how big the company would get?

I started WAH Nails because there was nowhere for girls like me to get their nails done by technicians who were in-the-know.

I knew it would be big but although it was in my original business plan to change nail culture, I didn’t think it would be this huge.

What nail trends can we look out for this year? Will you be at LFW again?

I only really do LFW for my friends Ashley Williams and Nasir Mazhar. I’m not so fussed about it and there are session nail technicians who have been doing shows forever and who are amazing at it. It’s not a gap I need to fi ll. As for nail trends... I really love graphic, painterly and pointillist nails.

Art is my biggest inspiration.

How did the Eastpak collaboration come about?

Eastpak contacted me to work with them on the DAA [Designers Against AIDs] project. I was really excited to put our classic nail print onto a bag.

How did you come up with the design, and how is your own personality reflected in the end result?

I love lilac, pink and blue so this was always going to be the base. Leopard is what made us famous in the nail world so it was only appropriate that I did that.

It’s basically what founded the business.

I’ve always been a blogger, documenter,

Your business has expanded quickly - you’ve published books, you model, style and consult on fashion shoots… what advice would you give to other young women wanting to start their own business? Is there anything else you want to do?

Just get on with it, don’t talk about it. Even now I find myself hesitant to explore new ideas, which is not in my nature but it comes with age and experience. The younger you are

WAH Nails Book of Downtown Nails is a step up from our first book (the WAH Nails Book of Nail Art), with more intricate designs – it encourages everyone to reach their full nail art potential!

420 Kingsland Road, E8; wah-nails.com

IE GR ANT

You also edit the WAH website. How important is the online element of the business?

Alex came into the salon one day and she was sweet and cool and got talking to me about her dreams of having her own salon. We had way too much space so I offered her the back of the shop. She said yes and Bleach was born!

Lastly, tell us about your new book...

HED BY HA RD

Definitely. I am keen on doing more philanthropic endeavours, particularly for women and children.

How did you start working with the Bleach salon girls?

the more naive you are and you have the balls to just do it!

IS £11.9 9, PUBL

Is it important to you to use your success to support causes such as this?

story-teller. I’d already built an online following for the WAH crew via my old blog, wahappenings.blogspot.com, so the basis was there. Instagram took it to the next level.

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MY STYLE

INTERIOR DESIGNER & FOUNDER OF MATRUSHKA, JOANNA BERRYMAN SHARES HER INSPIRATIONS

FAVOURITE PERIOD IN DESIGN: In the midst of a seventies moment with forties baroque accents; the contrast between utilitarian and decadent design is the most striking for me.

FAVOURITE HOTEL:

The Bowery Hotel in New York for the polenta fries at Gemma’s and the home away from Home Ambience.

FAVOURITE FASHION DESIGNER

Just ordered some divine pieces from Pavane’s SS14 collection. For staples I love Carven or Acne, accessorised with a bold necklace and a pair of architectural shoes by Nicholas Kirkwood for statement or Robert Clergerie creepers for comfort.

STYLE ICON

FAVOURITE HOLIDAY DESTINATION

Matrushka HQ, 4 Willoughby Road, NW3; matrushka.co.uk

A fox miniature painted by my friend Alice Instone, she’s a talisman and resides at The Folly, my retreat in the Cotswolds.

Udaipur and Jaipur in Rajahstan; the landscape here takes on an almost mythical quality. I find the faded beauty of the forgotten forts and palaces so inspiring.

MOST INSPIRING EXPERIENCE

Birth of my daughter nico (7), she’s grown into quite a character and is currently obsessed with comedy. She goes to comedy school once a week.

I marvel at her ability to craft and deliver jokes, her comic timing is genius. Watch this space.

Iris apfel: it’s important society breaks away from the cult of youth, iris represents everything i aspire to be style wise: authentic, colourful, brazen and feminine.

FRANCO VOGT PHOTOGRAPHY

PAVANE

MOST TREASURED POSSESSION

FAVOURITE PIECE OF ART

Feather Boat by Nancy Fouts. It’s such a charming creation housed within a glass box.

Nancy’s bonkers and original thinking really tickles me.

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FOR HIM EMBRACE THE WINTER WEATHER WITH JANUARY’S BEST CLOTHING AND ACCESSORIES

ABSOLUTELY FASHION

TINKER, TAILOR

Founded in Amsterdam in 2000, Suitsupply wasted no time getting its wares to the rest of the world, with branches popping up as far afield as Chicago and Shanghai. Specialising in superb tailoring at very reasonable prices, the current collection includes some sharp overcoats as well as heritage-style bodywarmers and chunky knits – all of which help to make the English winter feel a lot less bitter… suitsupply.com

AGENT ORANGE

US brand Penfield know a thing or two about life in a cold climate. The Bowerbridge Puffa, available in a range of subtler shades as well as this rather excellent bright orange, boasts a ‘power down’ filling and water- and windresistant shell – and pretty much guarantees you won’t get lost halfway up a mountain. £180 from Present, 140 Shoreditch High Street, E1; present-london.com

GOOD YARN

It’s not too late to make the most of a nifty knit, and this Fair Isle specimen from US titan J Crew – who recently debuted a trio of London stores - is just the ticket. £128, 38 Lamb’s Conduit Street, WC1; jcrew.com

THE TATTOO COLOURING BOOK

Brighton-based artist Megamunden recently published this clever colouring book through Old Street’s Laurence King.

Featuring loads of amazing original illustrations just begging to be turned into body art, it’s the perfect addition to any coffee table - and a treasure trove of ink ideas for anyone looking to show some skin when the season turns... £9.95 from laurenceking.com

CHECK MATE

Nine times out of ten, winter headwear is either dull or infantile. Thankfully, Japanese brand Neighborhood have bucked both trends with this ‘ear buff ’ cap, which will keep your lugs toasty while plugging you in to the enduring craze for classic Americana. £96 from the Goodhood Store, 41 Coronet Street, N1; goodhoodstore.com

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ABSOLUTELY KIDS

ABSOLUTELY

KIDS HOW TO KEEP LITTLE ONES AMUSED

HUG A PUG

The Steiff version is oh-so-cute and looks like the real thing. At least this one can go everywhere your little one does… and doesn’t need a walk. £159.95; harrods.com

AWAY WITH THE FAIRIES

Taschen’s latest compilation of The Fairy Tales of Hans Christian Andersen comes with a selection of beautiful artwork from the 1840s to the 1980s, which parents will love just as much as the kids. £24.99; taschen.com

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Wolf & Rita specialise in quality shirts for kids, of which each is produced in the traditional way and in limited number. The debut winter collection is inspired by the great American photographer Edward Sheriff Curtis. Kids can embrace their own free spirit with the addition of some bows and feathers.Wolf & Rita at Bubble London 26-27 January, feathers.

Business Design Centre, N1; bubblelondon.com

BUNNY LOVE

Emma Bridgewater does Beatrix Potter? We’re as smitten as Tom Kitten. Emma Bridgewater, 81a Marylebone High Street, W1; emmabridgewater.co.uk

BARBIE GIRL

Kitsch reaches iconic new heights with the release of this Audrey Hepburn Barbie, dolled up in the same gown and black stiletto heels worn by Hepburn’s character Sabrina in the 1954 film of the same name. An elegant departure for the world’s most famous blonde bombshell – and a light-hearted homage to Hepburn herself. What a doll. £84; pixmania.com

PEDAL PUSHER

Frog bikes launched last year as an antidote to to hideous and heavy children’s bikes in sparkly pink or superhero blue. These sleek aluminium cycles are super lightweight, with high quality components, and come in lovely, shiny unisex colours. With sizes ranging from toddler balance bikes to teenage, the range is set to become the last word in kids’ bikes.

Available at Stoke Newington’s Two Wheels Good, priced £100-£280; frogbikes.com

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all colour services inc cut & finish receive

all ladies cut & finish services receive

£20 OFF

£10 OFF

all men’s cut & finish services receive

all beauty services spend over £20 receive

£5 OFF

£5 OFF

Opening Times: Beat the January blues with a stylish start to the New Year... www.loungehairbeauty.co.uk Monday 9:30am ....... 6:30pm Tues-Fri 9:30am ....... 8:00pm Saturday 9:00am ...... 6:00pm Sunday 10:00am .... 4:00pm

FREE CAR PARKING Behind the salon exclusively for clients Scan on code to see our beauty price list

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020 7237 2624

* THESE OFFERS INCLUDE ALL LEVELS OF STYLISTS. * OFFER VALID UNTIL 31 JANUARY 2014. * MONDAY TO THURSDAY ONLY. * NOT TO BE USED IN CONJUNCTION WITH ANY OTHER OFFERS.

200 Jamaica Road, London, SE16 4RT

(Close to Bermondsey tube station)

ind us on facebook loungehairsalon, Bermondsey, London

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12/12/2013 14:27

15/2/08

11:12

YOU’RE AS YOUNG AS YOUR SPINE IS FLEXIBLE “If, at the age of 30, you are stiff and out of shape, you are old. If, at 60, you are supple and strong, then you are young.”

Joseph Pilates Get a stronger back, a flatter stomach and a suppler, younger body at our stunning studio

020 7288 8080

islington@pilatescentral.co.uk www.pilatescentral.co.uk 10-12 Gaskin St (off Upper St) London N1 2RY

Superb teachers. Superb facilities. Superb location.

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ABSOLUTELY HEALTH

THE MOLE SCAN THE DEAL? The Mole Clinic offers a full-body check-up, taking in every mole from the freckle-sized to those hidden under hair or between the toes. Applying the ABCD rule (asymmetry, border, colour and diameter), the nurse checks for signs of melanoma; if you are in the melanoma risk group, mole-mapping may be required, whereby pictures are taken so any change or growth can be flagged in an annual check-up.

BODY TALK TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR WELLBEING THIS YEAR WITH THE LATEST CHECKS AND TREATMENTS, WORDS: HELEN BARON

THE RESULT: The check-up is a quick and efficient way to get peace of mind, especially if you’ve experienced sunburn, used a solarium or not used SPF because cloudy London gives you a false sense of security. Assessing your skin type, the nurse will advise on ways to be sunsmart – and once you’ve been given the full once-over, you can opt for the TELEDerm service, which involves photographing any moles presenting two or more of the ABCD symptoms and sending the pics to a lab for further investigation. Your nurse will also follow up on your appointment with a phone call detailing the results – and provide a referral to a dermatologist if required.

THE DETAILS Infusions cost between £110 and £450; if it’s your first time, you can also book a preinfusion health-check for £150.

Bell 5, 19 Devonshire Street, W1; theinfusionclinic.co.uk

THE NUTRITIONAL APPRAISAL

THE RESULT: After your consultation, you’ll receive a personalised report via email. This rundown is full of tailored nutritional advice based on your personal requirements as well as a professional appraisal of the balance of nutrients in your current diet. Possible food intolerances are discussed and nutritional myths dispelled - helping you to make future decisions free from the distorting influence of rumour and hearsay.

THE DETAILS A standard consultation lasts half an hour and costs £50. For those who can’t get to Harley Street, it’s also possible to book a visit from a Food Doctor specialist.

13 Harley Street, W1; thefoodoctor.com

THE DEAL? The Infusion Clinic by Nosh Detox is the only place in London that replicates Las Vegas’ much talked-about Hangover Heaven, a high-end service that boosts wellbeing and combats alcohol-induced torpor with a potent, intravenously-delivered blend of vitamins, minerals and other vivifying substances. The idea is to increase the body’s uptake of detoxifying nutrients by administering them directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive tract and all its potential inefficacies. The Infusion Clinic offers a range of targeted treatments designed to invigorate the complexion, aid weight loss and reduce the effects of aging. Of course, it’s the anti-hangover infusion that intrigues most of all...

THE RESULT: A standard drip multi-vit infusion takes about 45 minutes and gives your system an instant boost.

The hectic schedule and irregular sleep patterns of the typical urbanite can be draining, but the infusion adds a dose of energy and vitality that lasts well beyond the treatment itself. In fact, the real benefits seem to kick in a few days later, when energy levels seem noticeably higher - even post-hangover (a real win).

THE DETAILS Mole checks start at £115, while TELEDerm costs £45 for the first mole diagnosis and £30 for each subsequent one.

9 Argyll Street, W1; themoleclinic.co.uk

THE DEAL? The Food Doctor isn’t just a range of super healthy snacks; in fact, the fast-growing food line is one happy by-product of a Harley Street clinic specialising in the science of nutrition. Consultations entail discussing your diet with an expert who can help you to pinpoint your nutritional goals and recalibrate your eating habits to ensure you achieve them. Whether you’re looking to enhance your general health and vitality or target something specific like problem skin, hormonal imbalance or a lack of energy, the Food Doctor can suggest an effective approach.

THE VITAMIN INFUSION

HYGIENIST

ACUPUNCTURIST THE DEAL? The traditional Chinese practice of acupuncture - the insertion of tiny needles into the skin at strategic points around the body - has been around for thousands of years. The idea is that the body is home to a network of ‘meridians’, invisible lines or channels by which ‘qi’ travels from the inner organs to the muscles and skin.

Acupuncture tries to regulate this flow and clear blockages that may occur due to disease or stress.

THE RESULT: Zen Clinic offers a range of Chinese herbal remedies and massage treatments as well as experienced acupuncturists.

On arrival, you’ll discuss any existing health issues or concerns with a traditional doctor (and a translator, if necessary) before being advised on the best course of treatment. The acupuncture sessions can target anything from general problems with the immune system to skin issues and tiredness. Whatever is ailing you, here you’ll find a sympathetic ear and some practical ideas on how to get yourself back to top form.

THE DETAILS Acupuncture sessions last from 30-60 minutes and cost between £40-85.

1 White’s Row, E1; zencliniclondon.co.uk

THE DEAL? Voted one of the best dentists in London at last year’s Dentistry Awards, Elleven is also Emma Watson’s practice of choice – and offers something different from the usual dental experience. The practice itself is little short of luxurious, with resident specialists on hand to advise on dental care, perform high-level cleaning and spot issues like plaque build-up and gum disease before they become serious problems. Treatments use the latest, state-of-the-art technology and include discreet lingual braces, Invisalign teeth-straightening and a range of other orthodontic and aesthetic services.

THE RESULT: Air-Flow represents the latest development in dental hygiene technology. It’s a polishing technique that uses highpressure air and water and a speciallyformulated powder to remove staining and restore the natural whiteness of teeth.

For those of us partial to coffee/red wine/ the odd cigarette, it’s a powerfully effective route to an improved smile.

THE DETAILS The Air-Flow treatment takes about an hour and costs £94.

11 Devonshire Place, W1G; ellevendental.com

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Bringing Harley Street to Shoreditch

B

oudoir Medical is based at Boudoir Beauty Parlour.

The clinic takes a holistic approach in a friendly, family setting. We take pride in treating every person individually, according to their needs and expectations. It is a one stop shop for all your beauty and medical aesthetic needs, to make you look and feel gorgeous and fabulous. You can have eyelash extensions to body contouring all under the same roof.

The TriLipo™MED from Pollogen is a non-surgical, non-invasive treatment, with no down time.

The TriLipo™MED with a unique offering treats a wide variety of conditions including;

 cellulite  stretch marks  mummy tummy  acne scarring  body shaping  skin tightening  facial rejuvenation  skin resurfacing

BEFORE

AFTER

1A Turville Street, E2 7HX - 020 7739 5462

www.boudoirmedical.com

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ABSOLUTELY HEALTH

HEALTH NOTES WISE WORDS STUDIO REVIEW

SĀDHAKA YOGA CENTRE

This brand new studio in Camden provides a serious cure for the winter blues. Previously known (and well-loved) as Alchemy, the new venture has a lot to live up to. Fortunately, experienced yogis Mollie and Simon Morris have created a space that embodies perfectly their holistic approach.

With over 50 classes a week catering for different levels and styles of yoga, plus numerous workshops and meditation classes, this is the kind of place to while away an entire Saturday. I opted for a taster in Kundalini and ended up on a cosmic journey which took in a series of ‘kyrias’ (dynamic and static poses) combined with shouting mantras and loud music – the aim being to unite the cosmic and individual consciousness. I followed this with a treatment; the studio offers everything from acupuncture and homeopathy to massages and… spiritual hairdressing. Yes, you read that right: a professional cut that involves healing and letting go of old energy. That has to be a first.

I topped it all off with a smoothie from the on-site Soul Café. It’s always nice when a studio has the forethought to include a space for socialising and replenishing your energy stores; this one serves organic food (as you’d expect) and a selection of ultra-healthy superfood juices. Be sure to try the signature Yogi Bhajan Chai too, incredibly warming and caffeine-free. So much better than wishing winter away from the sofa…

BY TANIA ODELL

We all know that Omega-3 is good for us and that we should have it every day, but how many of us actually do? If you can’t stomach regular meals of oily fish and find that supplements taste a little, well, fishy, then look out for the new VeryWise range of super-absorbable Omega-3 supplements. There are six to choose from, each with their own unique benefits. Feel like you have the attention span of a gnat? Try tropical-flavoured Brainwise – which is also packed with 100% of your RDA of essential vitamins. Best of all, it tastes delicious – just like a syrupy pineapple yoghurt. You can take it as a 5ml shot or add it to smoothies.

For prices see verywisenutrition.co.uk

A KINETTIP FROM IC PILA TES



Exercising little and often is a great way to get back to former fitness after a long break. Pilates is also ideal for easing back in, especially post-injury or post-training recovery; as little as ten minutes a day would be a great place to start over a week-long period. Stretch daily, focusing on your hamstrings, hip flexors and calf muscles, and do some gentle corestrengthening exercises to ease the pressure on your back and joints. This will help to avoid injury and recall your body’s muscle memory.

4 Ossian Mews, N4; kineticpilates.com

Stables Market, Chalk Farm Road, NW1; sadhakayogacentre.com

3 PRODUCTS FOR BETTER SLEEP

1. BetterYou Magnesium Oil Goodnight Spray, £12.20 for 100ml; betteryou.uk.com 2. Remedies to Roll – Relaxation, £6.25 for 9ml, available at Neal’s Yard, 295 Upper Street, N1; nealsyardremedies.com 3. Aromatherapy Associates Deep Relax Bath and Shower Oil, £39; aromatherapyassociates.co.uk

MUSCLES FROM BRUSSELS

Before you wrinkle your nose in dismissal of 2014’s emergent juice craze – brussel sprouts – listen to these wise words from Juice Club… ‘Lately, brussels sprouts have garnered a cult following rivalling that of the mighty kale, due largely to their being packed with vitamins A and C as well as the fact that they’re high in fibre but low in carbs and calories. Some festive combos with pears, cinnamon and spice or cranberries were on trial last month, but keep things lean and green in the New Year by adding spinach and kale.’ Maltby Street Market, SE1; juice-club.co.uk

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WE CAN

WORK IT OUT DAVID LLOYD LEISURE’S EXPERT TRAINER JOHN WILLIAMS TELLS ABSOLUTELY HOW TO STAY FOCUSED ON FITNESS

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ABSOLUTELY PROMOTION

 BY JOHN WILLIAMS, DAVID LLOYD LEISURE’S EXPERTISE COACH

A

lthough any time is a good time to embark on a fitness regime, without a doubt January is the most popular month to do so.

We are all aware of the cynicism that surrounds New Year’s resolutions; however, most of us aren’t aware that the success rate of anyone embarking on a radical change – at any time of the year – is low. Very low, in fact.

Typically, there are a couple of fundamental reasons people choose to make a change to their fitness – pain and pleasure. It just so happens that after plenty of festive indulgence, many people are left feeling the ‘pain’: increases in weight and body fat and poor energy levels are just a few examples.

This pain often leads to action – and action often takes the form of New Year’s resolutions. So is there a way to improve your chances of sticking to them? Before you start, there are three key things you need to be clear about when embarking on a new fitness routine:

You should define clear outcomes and think about how achieving them will benefit you. In other words, ask ‘what do I want and why?’

This is the ‘pleasure’ motivator, and if it’s powerful enough, it will keep you going long after you lose touch with the ‘pain’ which got you started in the first place.

You need to be sufficiently dissatisfied with what you currently have.

Most importantly, you need to be crystal-clear on what you need to do to achieve your fitnessrelated goals from your current standpoint.

This includes being aware of potential challenges and preparing solutions to them your own action plan.

Write down all your goals in a positive way and as though you have already achieved them. For example: ‘I am X weight, I exercise four times per week’ rather than ‘I will lose’ or ‘I will do’.

Consult with a fitness professional who can discuss with you the best ways of exercising and eating to achieve your goals.

Commit long-term: it shows belief in yourself

and is absolutely essential to your fitness goals.

Imagine your commitment as an endurance event: be cautious of coming out of the blocks sprinting, as true fitness can’t be achieved in two or three hard weeks. In fact, throwing everything at it early in the New Year is one of the surest ways to end up burnt-out, de-motivated or even injured. Work out with others. If you like working out in groups, sign up to a group programme, go to group exercise classes with a friend or even make some new ones at the classes.

Research has shown that those who get fit as part of a group stick to their programmes more than those who try to do it alone. Even if you don’t like groups, try to get a workout partner. Most gyms now do taster sessions or group personal training, where you can get expert guidance while meeting new people. Be open-minded: make enjoyment a focus and try new things that you think might be fun. You never know, you may find a fitness class that moves you from being someone who goes to the gym because they feel they have to, to someone who goes because they love it!

EASY TIPS FOR STICKING TO YOUR FITNESS GOALS

MOTIVATION

NUTRITION

1. Darker days and low temperatures can have a hibernating effect, particularly on those sensitive to light. Prior to working out, wrap up warm to increase your body temperature and spend some time in good light; this will increase energy and make it easier for you to get down to the gym.

2. Put your workouts in your diary – this is a tip that holds all year round. Those that commit in writing are up to six times more likely to get to the gym and get that workout done. ‘Hoping you will get time’ and ‘doing it when you feel like it’ aren’t going to work when you’re busy!

1. Hydration is one of the most important things to get right for health and energy. Try to achieve an intake of 0.033ml of water per kilo of body weight, per day.

For example, a 70kg person should aim to drink 70 x 0.033ml per day: 2.3 litres.

2. Time your indulgences. Okay, so there is never a great time to indulge in chocolates, but a better time might be 30 minutes pre-workout, as this can top up the tank to give you energy for your workout. And within 60 minutes of completing a tough workout your ideal meal should include some protein, carbohydrates and healthy fats.

This is also a time when your body is restocking its muscle glycogen, so a little extra carbs are likely to impact you less.

We’ve teamed up with David Lloyd Leisure to offer readers a chance to win ten free Orangetheory group training sessions at the new David Lloyd Studio in Islington. Bringing David Lloyd Leisure’s expertise to the high street with no membership fee required, David Lloyd Studio, Islington is the first location in the UK to offer Orangetheory, a fitness programme that uses heart-rate monitored training and which has taken the US by storm. A fun and effective workout suitable for all ages and abilities, each unique 60-minute session can accommodate up to 24 adults and features treadmills, rowing machines and weight-training blocks. Participants undertake intervals of cardio and strength training, burning up to an average of 900 calories per session.

The result is the Orange Effect – more energy, visible toning and extra calorie burn. Plus there’s ten per cent off all Orangetheory bookings for every reader during January and February! Call 020 7226 6744 and quote ABSOLUTELY10. To enter the free prize draw, simply email info.islington@davidlloyd.co.uk with your name, phone number and address by 1 February 2014 when the offer ends. David Lloyd Studio, 240 Upper Street, N1, 020 7226 6744; davidlloyd.co.uk/Islington

EXERCISE 1. If your energy levels are low due to overindulging, be open and try something new such as swimming. The swimming pool is a great place for interval training: swim hard for two lengths, rest and repeat.

The water is stimulating, so will no doubt help boost energy. Other alternatives might be a body balance or yoga class – they are not your usual lung-busting cardio sessions, but they still burn calories and increase energy.

2. Use TV time to stretch or foam roll. Rather than slouching on the couch, get down on the floor and have a thorough stretch while watching your favourite shows. This will not only improve your flexibility but will go some way to lift your energy levels.

3. If you are around children, come up with a game that will get you moving. This is not only an extra calorie burner for you but a good opportunity to wear the children out.

And when they sleep well, it means more peace and quiet for you!

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ABSOLUTELY PROMOTION

FRIENDS WITH BEAUTY BENEFITS

TRIED & TESTED: THE BEAUTY CENTRE

T

WORDS: HELEN BARON he Beauty Centre is not so much a salon as a members’ club with benefits. Here’s the deal: you pay either £199 a month for Gold membership, £269 for Platinum or £349 for Black. Gold entitles you to unlimited standard manicures and pedicures, waxing, eyebrow-shaping, eyelash and eyebrow-tinting and spray-tans. Yes, you heard that right: unlimited. You also get 10% off all products in-store plus another ‘bonus’ treatment from a menu including (but not limited to) express facials, Caci facials, electrolysis and deep tissue massage.

In fact, one of the major advantages of the membership plan is that you can try a different treatment each month or discover the benefits of returning to one treatment on an ongoing basis. Platinum membership earns you three extra treatments a month rather than one, while Black membership sees you entitled to unlimited use of all available treatments – and all memberships come with a clutch of exclusive discounts at other local stores. And for those afraid of committing to membership, yet more good news: the Beauty Centre offers a loyalty card. Grab nine treatments and your 10th is free. Owner Alice goes above and beyond the call of duty, lavishing clients with a maternal dose of TLC; she clearly values customer service and works hard to foster a sense of belonging and loyalty among her understandably devoted client base. Repeat custom is key to the Beauty Centre’s success. I’m in for a deluxe manicure, which means that my hands are doused in paraffin wax while I’m treated to a facial. My nails are serviced with finesse and an ingenious top-coat is applied that not only adds extra shine but means the work is touch-dry in moments – shaving crucial minutes off my waiting time (always the worst aspect of self-maintenance). My Dermalogica Facial Mapping is performed by therapist Roberta, a fountain of knowledge with radiant skin. She asks questions to assess my skin type and we identify my main problem as being large pores, which often run tandem with oily skin – when the skin overproduces sebum, it combines with dirt and make-up, congesting pores which then oxidise and cause blackheads.

Sexy stuff. Roberta reassures me that it is very rare to come across someone who doesn’t suffer from such things. Facials like this are especially good at fighting pasty, winter-ravaged skin and evening out skin tone. Roberta shows me a Dermalogica Barrier Repair Cream which helps to fortify the dermis. It’s best used after toning, which should be an important step in any beauty regime as it helps to minimise those pores after cleansing (I promise her that I will tone assiduously from now on); the ultra-calming complex it contains interrupts environmental and external triggers that cause skin stress. As it’s so light, moisturiser can then be applied over it. Within the hour, my skin looks plump, my eyes less puffy. Dermalogica is widely used on blemish-prone skin, so you won’t suffer a break-out for the sake of a day’s dewy complexion, either – reassuring for those of us prone to sensitive skin. By the end of my visit, I can’t help but wonder how the Beauty Centre’s membership scheme can be the first of its kind in London – it’s surprising no one thought of it before. For those in the habit of making a couple of salon trips (or more) each month, this is a fun, nicely indulgent and incredibly economical way to enjoy a professional beauty regime. In other words, a complete no-brainer.

130 Allitsen Road, NW8; thevipbeautyclub.com

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The VIP Beauty Club The Beauty Centre brings you a brand new concept in beauty!

Very simply: Unlimited usage of salon treatments* for a fixed monthly fee Available in 3 affordable grooming packages for the true beauty aficionado.

Discover luxury treatments at their finest at The VIP Beauty Club. £99 club joining fee has been waived for the first 20 applicants This offer won’t be around for long! So! First come, first served!

For more information, contact the salon The Beauty Centre, 130 Allitsen Road, St John;s Wood, London NW8 7AU 020 7722 6603 or 020 7586 1513 VIPClub@the-beautycentre.com www.thevipbeautyclub.com www.twiiter.com/VIPClubNW8 *UNLIMITED USAGE APPLIES TO SELECTED SALON TREATMENTS AND IS BASED ON MEMEBERSHIP LEVEL. TERMS & CONDITIONS AND A FAIR USAGE POLICY APPLIES

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ABSOLUTELY BEAUTY

BEAUTY

EDIT HEALTH, BEAUTY AND WELLBEING IN THE AREA

GOOD FOUNDATIONS

Is the cold weather catching up with you?

Help tired skin with MAC’s Prep + Prime Beauty BB Palm Compact SPF 30, which enhances facial contours and adds light to shadowed areas.

Available in both cream and compact forms, this naturallooking, illuminating foundation comes highly recommended. £23, 103a Commercial Street, E1; maccosmetics.co.uk

SALON REVIEW JONES & PAYNE AT ST MARTIN’S LANE

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OF THE BEST SPF MOISTURISERS

1. Clarins HydraQuench Cream SPF 15, £35; clarins.com 2. Kiehl’s Ultra Light Daily Defense SPF 50, £31; kiehls.co.uk 3. Balance Me BB Natural Perfection with SPF, £26; balanceme.co.uk

HAND OVER Liz Earle’s new superskin hand serum might well be the ultimate perfect hand cream. It’s lightweight and non-sticky while softening even the driest skin. With its fresh scent and high antioxidant content, it’s a potent formula that makes your winter hands feel fabulous. £17.50; uk.lizearle.com

Hair gurus Ricky Lee Jones and Stewart Payne have done what trendy salon owners do when they’re doing well – that’s to say, add to their original (Shoreditch) salon with a new outpost in equally creative Soho. Jones & Payne has seriously trendsavvy credentials – the founding duo have a accrued a pile-up of awards, including their current London Lifestyle Award for London Hairdressing Salon of the Year, while Jones has worked on high-end fashion shows in Paris and London for design houses Kenzo, Vivienne Westwood, Chloe and John Rocha. You get the picture: they’re a bit of a big deal when it comes to hair. It makes sense, then, that their Soho outpost has bedded down at the St Martin’s Lane Hotel, long a destination of the international jet-set and an official party hotspot (remember the obsession with Bungalow 8?). I rock up at the salon to get my ends lightened; not only does my colourist, Becky, perform a winning job (even adding a toner to combat an emergent reddish tone with a more ashen shade), but stylist Andi (an artist with a hairdryer) knocks me up a great style, giving me a tousled, desirably messy look with GHD’d waves.

By Helen

Baron

St Martin’s Lane Hotel, 45 St Martin’s Lane, WC2; jonesandpayne.com

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JOIN THE UK HEALTH CLUB OF THE YEAR NO ANNUAL CONTRACT

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See in your New Year’s Resolutions with Style at the N1 Centre, Islington Keep your New Year’s resolutions this January with the help of the N1 Centre. With a great range of shopping, eating and entertainment choices, the N1 Centre’s got everything you need to help keep you on track to a fabulous 2014.

1. Stick to that diet Itsu offers a delicious range of low calorie dishes. Try the new Chicken Soup with crystal noodles for £3.79 AND it’s less than 220 calories, too!

2. Cut down on your TV viewing Why not catch a live band instead?

With alternative folk quartets such as Future Folk, Welsh rockers The Blackout and leading tribute acts such as The Smyths, O2 Academy Islington is the place to be this January.

4. Catch up with old friends Meeting up with friends doesn’t need to cost the earth. The N1 Centre hosts some of the UK’s best-loved eateries including GBK and wagamama or catch the latest movies at Vue Cinema Islington.

3. Be on trend with the latest fashions Beat those bad weather blues with Accessorize’s gorgeous leather gloves with faux fur cuffs.

Revitalising your wardrobe is easy with the latest Spring/ Summer collections releasing this month at French Connection, H&M, GAP and more.

5. Clear out your clutter From stylish wall cabinets to funky shelving units, Butlers at the N1 Centre will help you get organised and, more importantly, stay organised this year.

For further information visit www.n1islington.com, follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ n1shoppingcentreislington or tweet with us @n1centre.

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ABSOLUTELY TRIED & TESTED BARRY’S BOOTCAMP

NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS TO PUT YOU THROUGH YOUR PACES GET FIT BARRY’S BOOTCAMP

Entrance is on 163 Euston Rd, NW1; barrysbootcamp.com

THE PURE PACKAGE

Barry’s Bootcamp. Words to strike fear into faint hearts. Hell, there are times they strike fear even into those who love a hardcore workout. I first heard tell of the mysterious Barry when I was living for a short time in LA, spiritual home of the exercise-honed hottie, where the bootcamp had fast become the default destination of A-listers and health freaks. Fans include Jessica Biel (Mrs Timberlake, no less) and the Kardashian (sooo LA). Barry’s full name is Barry Jay, and he co-founded the company with the aim of providing ‘the best workout in the world’. His regime, it was claimed, burned a whopping 1,000 calories a go – and people were so hooked, they went every day (these were LA people, mind). Despite my own best intentions, I never made it to Barry’s. My British reserve kicked in and I stuck to what I knew – a gentle yoga class – while my intrigue smouldered on the back-burner. So it was with much excitement (and trepidation) that I discovered Barry’s was coming to London, thanks to the efforts of brothers and trainers Sandy and James Macaskill. The move seemed a sure sign of London’s ever-increasing commitment to health and fitness, and suddenly made Hollywood-style buns of steel seem within the realms of possibility.

The studio is spacious enough to accommodate up to 45 devotees. Inside, dimmed red lights and mirrors work flattering magic on your reflection, so you’re happy to sweat it out to the club music. It’s a nightclub-like environment, which turns out to be very good for motivation. I’m here for a ‘legs and butts’ session, and we’re put through our paces on super advanced Woodway treadmills and special work-stations designed to facilitate squats, burpees, planks and weight-training. This sort of interval training is great for surprising the body and burning up fat - and it also makes the class go faster, though towards the end the treadmill starts to become oppressive. But it’s those sharp sprints and uphill bursts that take you into the optimum fat-burning zone...

Of course, none of this is rocket science. In fact, it’s not too dissimilar to workouts I’ve done elsewhere – but the quick turnover of sets make it seem more streamlined and American; trainers even wear those Britney-style headsets to bark friendly orders. Yes, you could do this workout yourself, but there’s a good chance you’d slack off, especially towards the end.

When you’re done, the rewards are plentiful. There are Malin + Goetz smellies in the shower, cotton pads, hair-straighteners and even a little jar of hairbands and bobby pins (someone always forgets). The facilities are luxe, unlike some more mercenary gyms I could mention, for whom showers and toilets seem to be just a dismaying after-thought. At Barry’s, it’s all about the complete experience – which is a winning approach, especially if home is not just around the corner. You can even grab a protein shake on your way out; having just burned 1,000 calories, why not?

HEALTHY EATING THE PURE PACKAGE A ‘gourmet’ food delivery company, the Pure Package is for those who don’t/can’t/won’t do diets – with a focus on health rather than losing weight. Vitamin-packed, tasty meals are boxed up and delivered at the crack of dawn in a delightful freezer-bag with a convenient print-out of what you’ve got to look forward to. For the time-poor, it’s a doddle and portions are generous with plenty of snacks. In fact, snacks are so plentiful you might want to order the delivery to work, to save on a package-laden commute.

I ordered the three-day Japanese Body Boost. I love Japanese food (the fact that it’s low in calories is merely a bonus), so it’s just like having a healthy takeaway thrice daily.

Day one is a cinch. Breakfast always consists of miso soup and edamame beans, which go down surprisingly well in the morning. Shiitake mushrooms are known for their antiviral and immune system-enhancing properties, so already you’re off to a good start.

A typical day might run as follows: a morning snack of bamboo and mushroom crystal rolls with pickled cucumber, sesame soy dip and a mixed sea vegetable salad; a salmon sushi box for lunch (packing in fatty acids and Omega-3,

it’s fresher than the fare from your average Japanese restaurant or anything you might find in a chain sandwich store). Next up is your afternoon snack – something like papaya, kiwi and pumpkin salad with a stem ginger and black sesame seed marinade (plus more edamame beans if you’re still hungry; papaya is packed with antioxidants and protein-digesting enzymes, so again the benefits go beyond flavour) – and dinner, which might take the form of teriyaki prawns with brown rice and stir fried Japanese vegetables.

By day three, it’s going well. I feel light and healthy - though I am craving something hot (not miso soup), and something with texture (not slimy). The idea of a simple slice of granary toast with peanut butter is threatening to throw me off-course, but no matter: I’ve still tripled my nutrient intake, lost two pounds and have radiant skin at a time of year when my dermis is usually in need of a good sloughing. Famous fans of the Pure Package include models Lily Cole and Erin O’Connor – and we’re happy to join their number. A practical no-brainer. purepackage.com

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ABSOLUTELY FOOD

A FOODIE GUIDE TO EAST LONDON

WE HEART IT

BY MICHAEL

MORALES, OWNER OF ANDINA IN SHOREDITCH

“

Every January when I was a child, my grandmother used to send us a hamper full of quinoa, meats, cheeses, eggs and sweet cakes. Mamita Naty, as we called her, lived in Santiago de Chuco: a village 18 hours from the nearest town in the Andes of Peru. The ingredients she sent us, the dishes we made with her recipes have all influenced my cooking today, and breakfast was when we savoured most of these.

Living in London is a far cry from Santiago, but I’m excited to find all kinds of quinoa in many colours and types: maca root, amaranth and other Peruvian super-foods. Quinoa is just fantastic: a super-food seed and complete protein; gluten-free, lactose-free, rich in magnesium, calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, zinc and vitamins C, B and E. The quinoa we use at my restaurants is Peruvian and ethically sourced by a company called Quinola, co-run by a Peruvian school-friend of mine. We make quinoa porridge, croquettes, brownies, burgers and even liquid quinoa-based meals in a cup.

On Kingsland Road in Shoreditch, near to our new restaurant Andina, is the Grocery. I get my fix of choc chip and quinoa biscuits from there (they come from Doves Farm), as well as loveberry superfruit bites by a raw food company called Inspiral.

If I’m not drinking a Green Vayeho at Andina (an avocado, pear, mint and spinach smoothie), I love drinking muña tea, an Andean herbal tea that’s good for the digestion, which I get from a company called Eco Inca. Dried fruits are essential in any diet and I particularly like goldenberries, either fresh in juice form or dried. They are a super-food native to Peru containing beta carotene, iron, calcium and all eight essential amino acids. They’re also high in vitamin C, D, E and A; you can get them at Wholefoods or Planet Organic. If I’m rushing I like a quick coffee. We have created a new blend from Peruvian, Costa Rican and Tanzanian coffee beans.

Perfecto. If she was still alive, I think Mamita Naty would approve of my choices.”

Redchurch Street, E1; facebook.com/andinalondon

Angela’s Hartnett’s upscale restaurant in the New Forest has set tongues wagging.

The latest addition to the five-star Limewood Hotel, Hartnett, Holder & Co whips up locally-sourced, classic English dishes with a seasonal, sometimes Italian twist. Shoreditch-based chef Angela will be making sure to reflect the restaurant’s prime forest location in the menu, bringing high-end home-cooked food to some of England’s most beautiful countryside. limewoodhotel.co.uk

FOODIE NEWS

R EC I P E Spicy Cold Zapper Have a sniffle? Feeling blue? A sip of this may cure you.

IT’LL FEED One person

INGREDIENTS

Th ree carrots One to two centimetre piece of fresh ginger Two oranges or blood oranges A dash of ground cinnamon

STEP BY STEP

Juice the carrots with a bit of ginger. Top up with juiced oranges and a pinch of cinnamon. abelandcole.co.uk

NIGHT SESSIONS

For an evening of jazzy glitz and Gatsby-style glamour, head to the Thursday Night Sessions at the Bloomsbury Hotel, with live music from a cherrypicked selection of up-and-coming jazz, swing and blues acts. Set in the opulent environs of a Sir Edwin Lutyen-designed architectural gem, you’ll take in the vintage vibe amid bespoke art pieces and handblown Waterford crystal chandeliers. Sharing platters are also on offer while you soak up the music.

16-22 Great Russell Street, WC1; the doylecollection.com

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PUB GRUB

FANCY A WINTER WARMER? BETH EVANS SELECTS THE TEN BEST LOCAL PUBS FOR GRUB AND GOOD TIMES BEST FOR: CHOICE AND SERVICE MARQUESS TAVERN

A pub can’t be cosy without warm service, something the Marquess Tavern provides in spades. Add to that relaxing armchairs, a toasty fire and a menu with enough options to please even the fussiest diner, and you’re on to a winner.

The likelihood of leaving room for pud is slim to none, but try and you won’t regret the double chocolate stout brownies (until you’re rolled out of the door, anyway). And don’t leave without trying the Scotch eggs.

32 Canonbury Street, N1; youngs.co.uk/pubs/ marquess-tavern

BEST FOR: CLASSIC PUB NOSH THE EAGLE

MARQUESS TAVERN

Far from buying into the hurly burly of Shoreditch’s gentrification, this Hoxton stalwart has been standing the test of time since way before your mother’s mother’s mother tripped the light fantastic over the threshold. This is the Great British pub at its best, so grab yourself a Bloody Mary, order that sausage roll for starters and cancel all plans for the rest of the day. A boozer to be proud of.

2 Shepherdess Walk, N1; theeaglehoxton.co.uk

in this intimate eatery just off Great Eastern Street.

Simple food; clean, stylish and classic décor and no sign of a chip on the hipster shoulders you’ll find here in abundance: there are good times aplenty to be had.

Always jam-packed, this is clearly the real people’s Princess, so book a table to avoid disappointment.

76-78 Paul Street, EC2; theprincessofshoreditch.com

BEST FOR: MEAT, OBVIOUSLY THE PIG AND BUTCHER

This is the place for anyone seeking high-end gastronomy without undue pomp and ceremony.

Grilled, smoked, dressed or potted, there are more seasonal meat dishes than you can throw a Gaviscon at. With a ‘sitting in your front room reading the papers’ atmosphere, you might be tempted to wear your old pajamas for your next visit. Don’t, though: there are standards.

44 Barnsbury Street, N1; thedrapersarms.com

With a name like The Pig and Butcher, it comes as no surprise that the team behind this stylish North London boozer are meat connoisseurs.

It’s a case of go meat or go home, basically – and with a menu that includes salted ox tongue and pig’s head on toast, committed carnivores are sure to leave their coats squarely on the pegs.

Packed with warm, wooden farm tables and an even friendlier atmosphere, you won’t be going anywhere for some time.

80 Liverpool Road, N1; thepigandbutcher.co.uk

BEST FOR: OLD-SCHOOL DISHES WITH FLAIR THE DRAPERS ARMS

THE DRAPERS ARMS

BEST FOR: GUILT-FREE DINING THE DUKE OF CAMBRIDGE

For those who like their food award-winning and their beer organic (with a healthy dollop of ethical farming thrown in for good measure), this is a one-stop shop. Topping the food-lovers’ charts year after year, the locally-sourced produce and delicious, varied menu mean your conscience will be clear along with your plate. Grab a (recycled) paper, order that pudding and pat yourself on the back: you’ve earned it.

30 St Peter’s Street, N1; sloeberry.co.uk

BEST FOR: A BIRTHDAY BASH THE PRINCESS IN SHOREDITCH

Like all good royalty, the Princess of Shoreditch don’t ‘alf scrub up nice. But if crisp white linen and her Madge’s finest tableware isn’t your style, fear not, because there’s something for everyone

Hunter S is more than just a local. Our tip? For a snack, get the cheeseboard.

194 Southgate Rd, N1; thehunter-s.co.uk

BEST FOR: A CANDLELIT WEEKNIGHT RENDEZVOUS THE ROYAL OAK

When you want a massive dash of lively with your shot of cosy, get yourself down to Columbia Road’s Royal Oak, where the hipsters return more frequently than a dieter to a ‘fridge. This is not just a place to eat, drink and be merry – it’s an institution.

Get yourself down earlier in the week you risk getting caught up with the exuberant weekenders.

There’s also the Sunday café from 9am to 2pm for the flower enthusiast.

73 Columbia Road, E2; royaloaklondon.com

BEST FOR: A HANGOVER SESSION EDINBORO CASTLE

A summer favourite due to its celebrated beer garden, this Camden haunt is also the perfect spot for a winter Sunday roast, a good game of Scrabble and a sup from the extensive wine list with fifty of your closest friends. Check in early doors at weekends because despite its size, this venue gets rammed.

57 Mornington Crescent, NW1; edinborocastlepub.co.uk

BEST FOR: GETTING OFF THE BEATEN TRACK THE ALBION BEST FOR: A GROWN-UP, BOOZY AFTERNOON THE HUNTERS

Not for the faint-hearted since its conversion into a taxidermist’s paradise a couple of years ago, the Hunter S has embraced all the quirky and idiosyncratic qualities of its gonzo namesake, from the stuffed animals to the pictures of ‘an adult nature’ on the bathroom walls. Whether you’re looking for a slap-up meal, a quickie after work or a bloody big session, the

A heartbeat away from the thrum of Upper Street is this delightful and quaint pub with all the home comforts of Georgian country retreat.

A wisteria-filled garden might make you long for a sunny summer day, but once inside the roaring fire and readily available sticky toffee pudding will more than make up for the winter weather.

To go the whole hog, you can even advanced order a whole roast suckling pig with all the trimmings for a mere £350.

10 Thornhill Road, N1; the-albion.co.uk

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BOX

FOUNDER OF THE DETOX KITCHEN, LILY SIMPSON TALKS DELIVERY DIETS TO GEORGIE LANE-GODFREY 54

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tend to avoid ‘detox bunnies’. You know who I mean: those bright-eyed, bushytailed individuals who eat only the very healthiest of meals, exercise every day and are perkier than a Colombian coffee in the morning (read Gwyneth Paltrow). I find their company terribly depressing, holding up a mirror to my own inadequacies and making me vow to eat better/ exercise more/get more sleep/only drink green tea/take up yoga etc. Until I end up with more ridiculous resolutions than a crack addict at New Year.

So it’s no surprise that I wasn’t particularly looking forward to interviewing Lily Simpson, founder of high-end diet delivery service the Detox Kitchen. As she walks in, all clear pale skin, big dark eyes and glossy brown mane, I can’t help thinking that Lily wouldn’t seem amiss playing Snow White in a pantomime.

She also makes a great poster girl for the detox lifestyle. It doesn’t take long for her to launch into an explanation of the company – a food delivery service based on the three guiding principles of gluten-free, dairy-free and sugar-free food. Subscribers receive three fresh meals a day along with two snacks, all of which is delivered to the doorstep every morning before 7am. At 1500 calories a day, it’s not too strenuous and it shifts the weight too, with most clients losing between 3-6lbs in the average five-day programme.

‘Naturally you start eating healthier and your palette is cleansed so it stays off,’ Lily explains. ‘It’s all about clean food. I hate to sound snobby when it comes to food but if I eat sugary food or if I have anything very oily or fried, it affects me so badly. My eyes feel like they’re popping out of my head – horrible. It’s just about having a clean system.’

It would seem that there are many who would agree: Elle Macpherson, Pixie Geldof, Henry Holland, Jasmine Guiness and, of course, Gwyneth Paltrow are all tried-andtested fans of the service. Indeed, such was the

success of the brand that it now has an outpost in Harvey Nichols – a salad and juice bar serving the same sugar-, gluten- and dairy-free dishes – and next on the agenda is a DIY home detox kit, complete with recipe card and quality ingredients so that clients can continue the regime at a more affordable price.

So far, so Gwynnie. But surely it can’t be that much fun never eating sugar? Or gluten?

‘Well, I mostly eat my own food but I am obsessed with chocolate so I still eat that,’ Lily concedes. The pressure to be healthy must be tough, I suggest, when you’re running a business like the Detox Kitchen.

‘Yes!’ she bursts out, unexpectedly, ‘there’s so much pressure. It’s horrible!’ I point out that she looks pretty good considering, but she just shakes her head. ‘When I first started I ran myself into the ground. I looked awful, with big bags under my eyes and I’d lost so much weight because I’d been running around like a complete maniac. So I’d turn up to meetings as this really skinny, pop-eyed, spotty, tired girl. People were like, “Really? You run THIS company?!”’Not that it got any easier after things slowed down; Lily suffers from polycystic ovary syndrome, which often affects her skin.

‘I’m a very emotional person,’ she confides, ‘so my skin tends to flare up when I have an important meeting. I have to tell them, “It’s not my diet, it’s the ovaries!”’ she laughs. Having learned to control symptoms with her diet, Lily is now helping others do the same – a project which has inspired her latest adventure: trekking across the Alps to help raise money for Trekstock, a charity which supports young people with cancer.

‘They’re amazing,’ she tells me, ‘because they offer support in a really interactive, interesting way. They also help people with their diets, which is something we do too.’ So how is the training going, I ask? ‘It’s so hot, I think I might actually die!’ Lily wails. ‘On the kit list it says “trekking boots, best worn-in over three years”.

Try three days! But tonight I’m going to walk from Battersea to North London, where I live.’

R EC I P E Wheat and Dairy-free Soba Noodle Carbonara INGREDIENTS 200g x Soba noodles 2 x egg yolks ½ x onion 1 x garlic clove ½ cooked chicken breast 1 x handful of kale 1 x handful of flat leaf parsley Cracked black pepper Maldon salt TO MAKE Bring a pan of water to the boil and drop the soba noodles in for 2 minutes, then drain - but keep 1 tblsp of the starchy water.Meanwhile, dice the onion and crush the garlic. Sweat down the onion until it is slightly caramelised, for around 6 minutes, then add the garlic and cook out for 5 minutes. Now add the diced chicken and cook for 10 minutes, adding a splash of the starchy water that you saved from the noodles. Next, add the kale and cooked noodles, heat for 1 minute and take off the heat. In a bowl, beat the egg yolks and season with salt and pepper. Tip the noodle and onion mixture into the bowl with eggs and beat (this will cook the eggs and is all done off the heat). Finish with chopped parsley.Check delivery areas at detoxkitchen.co.uk

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BLUE JASMINE We love Farrow & Ball's current collection of nine beautiful colours.

Our pick is St Giles Blue, a gorgeous, earthy hue named after the Renaissance stylings inside the ancestral home of the Earl of Shaftesbury in Wimborne, St Giles.

But don’t worry, you needn’t own a home of palatial proportions to incorporate this rich and regal palette. As far as we’re concerned, it goes with any home.

Farrow and Ball, 58A Rosslyn Hill, NW3; farrow-ball.com

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ARCHITECTURAL

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SPA DETOXING THIS MONTH? WEST ONE BATHROOMS SHOWS YOU HOW TO BRING THE SPA EXPERIENCE HOME

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W

ith New Year come, once again, those New Year’s resolutions: drink less, exercise more, take better care of yourself. Spa trips are the order of the day, yet it seems a waste to spend money indulging in a treatment only for it to wear off as soon as you’re back home in your normal bathroom. However, West One Bathrooms have the answer – bring the spa experience home with one of their luxurious bathrooms. From mood-inspired waterfalls in the shower to atmosphere-enhancing lighting in the bath, West One has everything you need for a truly decadent room.

Showcasing more than just Scandi style, this Nordicinspired bathroom is filled with all the latest pieces for complete home pampering. For instance, the shower’s Ambience Tuning Technique regulates water volume and temperature to create a bespoke spray to suit your needs.

Choose between three scenarios – balancing, energising and de-stressing – all designed to control the water pressure in such a way that the shower adapts to suit your mood demands. Use on a regular basis and you’ll find that these scenarios become part of a personal ritual, creating a truly exceptional shower.

What’s more, it can also transform into your very own Hammam thanks to Effegibi’s ‘Touch and Steam’ technology – a glass panel fitted to the wall which enables

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STEAM UP YOUR SHOWER INTO A HIGH-TECH TURKISH BATH TO ENHANCE YOUR EXPERIENCE

you to steam up your shower into a high-tech Turkish bath complete with different coloured light and heat options to enhance your experience. Neatly efficient, this space-saving option is perfect for London homes.

Meanwhile, TOTO’s Luminist bath and basin come with integrated LED lighting, designed to illuminate your bathroom subtly whilst creating a calmingly sophisticated setting. Even the toilets here are high-end; a mixture of haute design and top-of-the-range technology. The Giovannoni Washlet is a collaboration between TOTO and Italian designer Stefano Giovannoni, and includes a heated seat, deodoriser and warm water jet to gently cleanse. Alternatively, the Geberit Aquaclean 8000 Plus is ergonomically designed to provide an oscillating shower

with adjustable temperature and pressure settings. It also boasts a warm air dryer and odour extractor to ensure a pleasant and comfortable cleansing experience.

The annual sale is now on, with upto 40% off leading brands. Visit exdisplay bargains online or pop in to visualise your future bathroom and speak to one of West One's experts.

West One Bathrooms, 020 7720 9333; westonebathrooms.com

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INTERIOR

INSPIRATIONS

Winter Whites

1. Decorative Medicine Bottles, £20; houseoffraser.co.uk

SITTING PRETTY

Sofa Workshop’s vintage-inspired Petite Reader chair is handmade to order in their British workshop.

What more could you want for curling up on to read a literary classic?

Austen, here we come…

From £999; sofaworkshop.com

THANK YOU

Penreath and Hall produce a delightful range of stationery, from vintage-style paperweights to illustrated greetings cards and old-fashioned cartes postales.

We love Mary Sumner’s artsy Chiming Tree design, and what better way to say thank you for all your Christmas gifts than with a handwritten note. £2.50; 17 Rugby Street, WC1; penreath-hall.com

2. Shabby Chic Mercury Perfume Bottle, £20; houseoffraser.co.uk

3. Betty Jackson Cushion, £38; debenhams.com

IN DA TUB

Looking for a January bargain? Look further than West One Bathrooms Ltd, currently holding their annual sale, with massive reductions on well-known brands. At 40% off, its not to be missed if you're looking to realise your dream bathroom in the new year.

44-48 Clerkenwell Road, EC1, 020 7324 0780; westonebathrooms.com 4. Lee Broom Decanter Lights, from £230; leebroom.com

SHOP OF THE MONTH

Brought to you by the same friendly bunch of aficionados behind the acclaimed East London Design Show, Hackney’s East London Design Store is stuffed with all things fascinating and fun. The staff ’s curatorial expertise is secondto-none, and everyone – from kids and cooks to style-hounds and interiors obsessives – is sure to discover something here to inspire, entertain or just downright improve their life.

A must-visit in 2014 – which is shaping up to be a very good year for design.

6a Ada Street, E8; eastlondondesignstore.com

5. Penreath & Hall Bridie Hall Pavilion Candle, £50; penreath-hall.com

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Empire

IN THE SUN Helen Baron tunes into the hippie chic of the Mayan Riviera

T

he first time I visited Mexico, I steered clear of Cancun.

The Caribbean coastal resort had become, so I was told, a playground for certain kinds of tourist, and it’s fair to say that booze-addled American spring breakers and package holiday hordes were an off-putting prospect. In fact, Cancun’s chequered reputation almost saw me dismiss the Yucatán Peninsula completely – until a couple of years ago, when I was based in LA and the flight over suddenly didn’t seem like such a big deal. Of course, by then I had heard whispers about the Riviera Maya – a name coined by the region’s tourist board in the 1970s – and had investigated what lay further south along the coast. I jetted off for a few days among the Mayan ruins and tropical rainforests of Tulum, a fleeting visit enjoyable enough to have me pledging to

return. After a second visit, I’m hooked.

The Caribbean coast – in particular that part which forms Mexico’s eastern fringe – is an inviting alternative for the discerning traveller, especially in the face of the mounting cost of European trips.

Originally a hippie-leaning hang-out for backpackers and the eternally laidback, Tulum (or more precisely the boutique and eco-hotels that line the Boca Piala Road just north of Tulum itself) offers a more natural, exotic experience, uninterrupted by the garish or sterile hotels that cluster within Cancun’s city limits.

Rooftop yoga decks are dotted liberally along the roadside, sharing space with boho restaurants, small stalls selling trinkets, jewellery and patterned textiles and a few upmarket boutiques brimming with bikinis and Bretonstriped maxi-dresses. The impossibly cute beach bars, decked out in palm fronds and riotously colourful wood furnishings, complete the picture, while palapas (opensided shelters thatched with palm leaves) abound. It all

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and a view that could move you to tears if, like us, you arrived at dusk to a chilled bottle of wine.

Water has to be delivered to the area by truck, so you’re advised to use it sparingly, but this is all part of the experience: feeling closer to nature.

In fact, Jashita makes you wonder why all hotels aren’t like this, because the monstrously huge resorts elsewhere are nothing but a blot on the landscape we all come to see.

THE RESTAURANT

ROOM WIT A SEA VIEW

makes for a cheerful, unforced, unhurried scene, with none of the urban glitz or corporate tack of the northern resorts. In Tulum, it’s like everything was magically washed up on the shore and decided to stick around.

Having already spent a few days in Playa del Carmen, the Mayan Riviera’s answer to Ibiza, this sense of sun-bleached, rustic simplicity was most welcome.

JASHITA

We were staying at the upscale Jashita, a boutique hotel about ten minutes by car from Tulum, perched alone in a secluded stretch of Soliman Bay. Possibly the best spot we could have chosen, the hotel is all neutral chic, bougainvilleas and barefoot luxury.

All beaches south of Cancun benefit from the same turquoise-tinted, clear, calm waters, but here in Tulum, unlike in Playa del Carmen, the sand itself is unbelievably pristine.

Days at Jashita are blissful. We wake naturally with the sun, alert and joyful, and eat a beautifully prepared breakfast of tropical fruit and huevos Mexicanos under a muslin canopy (a hole in the middle of which accommodates a large palm tree staking its peaceful claim). The pool looks irresistible, like something from the pages of a magazine.

Jashita’s Sahara Cafe is exemplary, and just what’s needed on a holiday like this – plenty of fresh vegetables, vibrant salads and pasta dishes. We were happy enough to eat both lunch and dinner there most days, while Tommaso, Jashita’s cool-asa-cucumber Italian owner, who is by all accounts ‘living the dream’, flits in and out, chatting with guests before darting outside to play in the sea with his small daughter.

He tells us to try a local fish shack, pointing to a red roof half a mile up the beach. He recommends the ceviche, which we order and wash down with a can of cold Sol. One thing to bear in mind when staying at Jashita is that you aren’t on the main drag where most of Tulum’s bars and restaurants are located. Your reward for comparative seclusion, however, is tranquility, and it’s well worth it.

Besides, there’s still plenty to do and most of the area’s delights are only a short cab ride away. We explored the ancient Mayan ruins and snorkelled with turtles at Akumel Beach – following a guide, we were able to get very close, a youngster popping up for air right beside me.

We also explored the underground cave system at Rio Secreto, where the earth caved in long ago and natural groundwater swelled up into the resulting pits. The Yucatán Peninsula is home to over 6,000 natural sinkholes, or cenotes, in which you can swim or even canoe.

For the traveller with more time on their

THE RESTAUARNT FIRE DECK

DON’T MISS TOMMASO MARCHIORELLO OF JASHITA RECOMMENDS...

HARTWOOD RESTAURANT A Mexican farmhouse restaurant run by ex New-Yorkers (and with a New York-style reservation list). You might have to wait for a table but it’s totally worth it.

MEZZANINE - The Friday night beach party at this restaurant sees international DJs spin the decks. Be leisurely, though - things don’t get going until around midnight.

THE BEACH

At Jashita, you can luxuriate in the privacy of the hotel’s own private cove. A leisurely dip in the sea and a swim to the floating day-bed, 400m out, is exercise enough, then it’s back to shore. Hammock time is important here, and we snooze to the lulling sound of palms in the breeze. We feel the sand between our toes, the soles of our feet miraculously smooth from being shoeless for most of each day. Our room is spacious, a sanctuary with its own plunge pool

hands, Tulum is also a great base from which to journey across the border into Belize and Guatemala, while many backpackers circle back to Cancun via the cities of Campache and Tabasco. Closer to the Jashita, we avoided the tourist-trap water parks – put off by the crude dolphinariums and their unhappy inmates - but soaked up every last bit of wild natural beauty we could find. Our pursuit of a zen state meant we saved the zip-line adventures of Xplor for another trip, but that was fine with us. Tulum is, after all, a place to revisit, and a destination that only reveals itself fully with a little time and exploration. It’s somewhere you’ll want to return almost as soon as you’ve left... just don’t tell everyone about it.

PAPAYA PLAYA PROJECT - Check the website for the hotel’s monthly full moon parties, which draw hip young things from all over the region.

REEF VIEW

Standard rooms start at 180USD per night in low season; beachfront suites start at 390USD per night in low season.

To book, visit jashitahotel.com

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PAR ADISE FOUND

M

Beth Fryer discovers a tropical paradise at Mauritius’s Beachcomber Trou Aux Biches Resort and Spa

auritius is one of those places which grows on you slowly. Don’t get me wrong, I was delighted to be stepping off the plane, but it wasn’t the desert island of honeymooners that I had been expecting. Efficiently organised, Mauritius seemed almost disappointingly developed and the spring-time climate here in the south of the island wasn’t exactly welcoming.

This impression, of course, changed as soon as we headed north to Grand Baie and our home for the duration of our stay – the Beachcomber Trou Aux Biches Hotel & Spa.

Here, the postcard-perfect images make sense.

We’re greeted with smiles and a refreshing cocktail in the reception overlooking an expanse of infinity pools, all perfectly framed by a background of palm trees and a beautiful blue sea – a picturesque indicator of the days to come.

Once checked in, we’re driven on a golf buggy to our tropical suite. The room is set within the hotel’s 35 hectares of lush tropical gardens and is one of 333 suites and villas, which have been organised cleverly so it still retains an element of privacy and seclusion. Our room is one of a group that looks into a central garden with a pool lying serenely in the middle – other rooms benefit from their own private pools. We also have our own outdoor tropical shower which, alongside the rain shower and bath indoors,

creates a sense that you really are tucked away in your own tropical escape. These tropical gardens are what make this hotel truly special. When I decide to head out and explore, I’m greeted by an abundance of colour and flora and fauna to which the gardens are home. It feels uncannily like paradise. Wandering out of my beautiful tropical surroundings, I emerge onto the beach – a pristine expanse of white sand and blue sea just shy of 2km in length. It’s also blissfully peaceful, only interrupted by the rattle of the Toy Storyesque golf buggy, which drives back and forth, niftily serving refreshments from the vending machine on board. Of course, as beautiful as the gardens are, there is always the niggling worry with a hotel like this that there won’t be enough here to keep you entertained, especially

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‘When I decide to head out and explore, I’m greeted by an abundance of colour and flora and fauna’

if, like me, you’re not the type of person who can easily just kick back and relax on a sun lounger for days on end. We needn’t have worried – the range of activities here far surpassed our expectations. Head down to the boathouse and you’ll find a wealth of water sports, many of which are complimentary. I decide to try water-skiing to feed my action satisfaction, which is great fun, but I’m shown up by a lady who is twice my age and has twice the skill. The windsurfing lessons prove less successful (for which we have to take full responsibility) so we instead resign ourselves to a sedate pedalo cruise around the calm, sheltered waters of the bay.

But you’re not by any means confined to the hotel, and the friendly staff are more than happy to organise day trips for you. We went on a snorkelling trip to explore the nearby coral –a mini aquarium, just ten minutes by speed boat out of the bay. Here, expect to see the cast of Finding Nemo, thankfully minus the sharks! My other half also tried his hand at a spot of deep sea fishing whilst I headed to the Spa by Clarins

(I feel sea sick when presented with too many speed bumps let alone an actual ocean!). Here I indulged in an excellent facial at the hands of beautician Wendy. As she talks me through the treatment, it proves so very relaxing that by the time I emerge to meet my boyfriend I feel as good as my now glowing skin looks.

With trips to see the local marine life and tropical gardens on hand, Trou Aux Biches is an obvious choice for nature lovers. But it also happens to be perfectly situated for day trips to visit the National Botanical Gardens in nearby Pamplemousses. Amongst the miraculous nature here the gargantuan water lilies are the sight to see, making us stop to gaze in wonder as we strolled around the beautiful grounds. Hire a guide – not only will their expertise put the incredible plants you are seeing into context, but their multi-lingual wit will catch you off guard.

However, the highlight of our trip had to be when we were swimming just around the bay at Trou Aux Biches. To our delight, a pod of dolphins appeared in the waters and came up to say hello. It was one of those experiences which you expect only to see in brochures and not in real life, and yet it was totally unorchestrated, a moment of pure serendipitous magic which summed up our time here in Mauritius perfectly. That night, we dined at Le Deck, one of the six restaurants at Trou Aux Biches, looking out to the sparkling sea. After dinner, we slipped off our shoes and walked along the soft sand by moonlight – the perfect end to a truly enchanting day.

Seven nights at Trou Aux Biches Resort & Spa in a Junior Suite on a dinner, bed and breakfast basis, including Economy Class flights with Air Mauritius and private hotel transfers, from £1795 pp sharing. Call Beachcomber Tours on 01483 445 685 or visit beachcombertours.co.uk

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UK GETAWAY

BAILIFFSCOURT SUSSEX

THE SPA

D

renched in natural light, the Bailiffscourt Spa is an airy space with big windows providing views over green fields and the sea beyond. Treatments

by Temple Spa are perfect after a dose of the Sussex sea air – we recommend a rejuvenating full body massage. If you can manage the dash outside, a swim in the (heated) outdoor pool is particularly atmospheric.

THE HOTEL

W

alking into Bailiffscourt Hotel & Spa is like stepping back in time to the 1920s, when it was built as a home for the Guinness family. Constructed from medieval timber and stone collected from derelict 13th century buildings nearby, it still feels like a private family home with its cosy nooks and roaring fires, four-poster beds and oak beams, all set within 30 acres of parkland.

Even better, the pebbled beach at Climping is just a short stroll away.

THE RESTAURANT

A

fter a glass of merlot by the fire in one of the cosy lounges, the Tapestry Restaurant beckons. Medieval architecture, dark wood, mullioned windows and candlelight set an intimate atmosphere by night, matched by a menu of reimagined British classics with fresh, local produce. We ooh-ed over perfectly poached duck egg, rump of lamb and a tart-yet-sweet caramelised apple crème brulée. We were equally pleased with the wood pigeon, roasted monkfish and chocolate and praline delice, all the right side of indulgent for a winter getaway.

THE ROOM

T

he thirty-nine rooms and suites are set across different buildings connected by oak-panelled passageways and sat around a rose-filled courtyard. We love the Baylies Suite, the hotel’s signature room and the definition of a romantic retreat – think vaulted ceilings, rich tapestries, antique furniture and a palatial bathroom with deep his ‘n’ hers roll-top baths.

THE DAMAGE

Rooms at Bailiffscourt Hotel & Spa start at £210 per room per night, based on two sharing on a B&B basis – including use of spa and VAT. A three-course dinner at the Tapestry Restaurant is £49.50 pp. To book: 01444 416 111 or reservations@bailiffscourt.com; hshotels.co.uk

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Union Wharf, Wenlock Road, N1 A well presented one bedroom, first floor loft apartment with a superb balcony overlooking the Wenlock Basin.

This larger than average one bedroom apartment has a wonderful reception with raised study area, separate kitchen, double bedroom with fitted wardrobes, modern bathroom and a superb balcony with canal views.

ÂŁ565,000 Share of Freehold 020 7354 6666 / cluttons.com 2

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1

SOLD

SOLD

Gainsborough Studios North N1

Offord Road N1

Sh

£495,000

£800,000

20

SOLD

£6 SOLD

SOLD

Mackenzie Road N7

Blackthorn Avenue N7

Gro

£750,000

£470,000

£4

SOLD

Devonia Road N1

Southgate Road N1

£899,950

£695,000

SOLD

SOLD

Dove Road N1

Ne

£485,000

£1 SOLD

The Loxfords N5

Beresford Road N5

An

£925,000

£425,000

£9 SOLD

This is a small selection of the properties luttons ha e successfully sold in the last si months islington cluttons com CLUTTONS_C&A_JAN.indd 2

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LD

1

SOLD

Shillingford Street N1

£695,000

LD

SOLD

Grosvenor Avenue N5

Freegrove Road N7

£495,000

£1,495,000

LD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

Barnsbury Road N1

Highbury New Park N5

£480,000

£699,950 SOLD

Newington Green N16

Highbury Hill N5

£1,495,000

£595,000

LD

SOLD

SOLD

Angel Waterside N1

Fergus Road N5

£925,000

£1,385,000

LD

To find out how much your home may be worth call us today to arrange a free market appraisal 020 7354 6666 CLUTTONS_C&A_JAN.indd 3

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UNDER OFFER

1

Bu

£2 500 000

£395 000

20

UNDER OFFER

Cowcross Street

Holloway Road N7

1

UNDER OFFER

£7 UNDER OFFER

UNDER OFFER

St Paul's Road N1

Laycock Street N1

Isli

£375 000

£725 000

£4

UNDER OFFER

Island Apartments N1

Petherton Road N5

£575 000

£595 000

UNDER OFFER

UNDER OFFER

Canonbury Road N1

Ard

£630 000

£3 UNDER OFFER

Calabria Road N5

St Peter's Street N1

Lay

£ 50 000

£740 000

£7

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DER ER

1

LET

Burgh Street N1

£750 per week

DER ER

LET

Islington Green N1

Duncan Terrace N1

£475 per week

£625 per week

DER ER

LET

LET

LET

Moore Court N1

St Pancras Chambers NW1

£550 per week

£695 per week LET

Ardleigh Road N1

Morton Road N1

£335 per week

£575 per week

DER ER

LET

LET

LET

Laycock Street N1

Elliots Place N1

St Peters Street N1

£725 per week

£595 per week

£650 per week

To find out how much someone would pay to buy or rent your property please call for a free market appraisal 020 7354 6666 CLUTTONS_C&A_JAN.indd 5

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1

LET

LET

Matthias Apartments N1

Packington Street N1

De

£650 per week

£3 5 per week

20

LET

£6 LET

LET

Almorah Road N1

Clephane Road N1

Mi

£350 per week

£435 per week

£5

LET

Bridel Mews N1

Island Apartments N1

£595 per week

£475 per week

LET

LET

Offord Road N1

Lei

£625 per week

£4 LET

St Pancras Chambers N 1

Battledean Road N5

Hig

£795 per week

£750 per week

£5

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T

1

LET

Devonia Road N1

£625 per week

T

LET

Mildmay Road N1

Cruden Street N1

£575 per week

£1,100 per week

T

LET

LET

LET

Packington Street N1

Union Wharf N1

£375 per week

£675 per week LET

Leigh Road N5

Highbury Crescent N5

£435 per week

£695 per week

T

LET

LET

LET

Highbury Crescent N5

Gifford Street N1

St Johns Street EC1V

£595 per week

£365 per week

£425 per week

To find out how much someone may pay to rent your home call us to arrange a free market appraisal 020 7354 6666 CLUTTONS_C&A_JAN.indd 7

10/12/2013 11:19

PROPERTY

ROUND UP PROPERTY OF THE

MONTH

HURST AVENUE, N6 ÂŁ3,750,000 Rare to the market and positioned on a much sought after tree-lined avenue with direct tranquil views over playing fields. Desirably located for a host of amenities from both Crouch End and Highgate Villages. This truly charming double fronted and detached family home occupies a magnificent plot with substantial front and rear gardens.

Castles 020 8348 5515; castles-estateagents.co.uk

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ABSOLUTELY Property NORTHCHURCH ROAD, N1 £1,500 Per Week A rare opportunity to rent this attractive and spacious 4 bedroom house on this beautiful residential road in De Beauvoir. The house has recently been refurbished to a superb standard, maintaining the period features throughout. The property is situated over 3 floors, on the ground floor is a stunning hand crafted kitchen and dining area which continues into an open plan reception room with bifolding doors, leading to a private landscaped garden with decked area. Further on the ground floor is a separate smaller reception room, utility area and separate WC. On the first floor is a beautiful master bedroom with double height windows, wood floors and original period features, second double bedroom and family bathroom. The third floor consists of two further double bedrooms and second family bathroom. The property is available immediately on an unfurnished basis. All potential tenants should be advised that as well as rent, an administration fee of £276 will apply when renting a property.

7

020 3657 7360; knightfrank.co.uk

WIN A SCOOTER

WITH DRIVERS & NORRIS!

TRIPLE AWARDS SCOOP FOR HAMPTONS INTERNATIONAL

H

amptons International’s Islington office is today celebrating three highly prestigious industry accolades following the Estate Agency of the Year Awards in association with The Sunday Times and The Times, which took place on Friday 6 December at the Lancaster London Hotel. As well as joining in the company’s celebrations after taking home the Best Large Agency award for the second year running, employees from Hamptons International’s Islington branch scooped the Gold prizes for the newly launched individual categories of Best Negotiator and the Best Valuer in the UK.

020 7717 5103; hamptons.co.uk

Instruct Drivers & Norris Estate Agents to rent or sell your property and you will automatically be entered into our draw to win this nippy London scooter. Entries close 31st March 2014 and the draw will take place at Drivers & Norris Estate Agents on Saturday 16th April 2014 at 2pm.

020 7607 5001; drivers.co.uk 83

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AVANT GARDE, E1 - PRICES RANGE FROM £365 - £795 PER WEEK A selection of luxury apartments in the newly completed Avant Garde building. Details of individual properties and floor plans available on request. Studios, one, two and three bedroom apartments available. Communal Gym and 24hr Concierge. communal gym | 24 hour concierge | fantastic location

CONEWOOD STREET, N5 - £1,100,000 FREEHOLD A beautiful four bedroom Victorian house in fantastic condition throughout.The property offers period features with a contemporary design, including a large double reception room, eat in kitchen that leads out to a south facing private garden. four bedrooms | period | resident parking

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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13/12/2013 10:09

WOLLATON HOUSE, BATCHELOR STREET, N1 - £650 PER WEEK This spacious loft style two bedroom and two bathroom apartment is situated within a newly converted Victorian building. The property comprises of a large open-plan kitchen and reception room, two spacious double bedrooms and two modern bathrooms (one en-suite). two bedrooms | two bathrooms | furnished

ARLINGTON AVENUE, N1 - £725,000 LEASEHOLD A rare opportunity to acquire this beautiful two bedroom maisonette in one of Islington›s most coveted locations.

Set on a quiet cul-de-sac street the property is arranged over the raised ground and first floor of one of Arlington Conservation Areas. two bedrooms | terraced | garden

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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13/12/2013 10:10

BLUE COURT, SHERBORNE STREET, N1 - £375 PER WEEK A modern ground floor apartment located on a quiet residential street just off Essex Road. The property comprises of a bright open-plan kitchen living room, spacious double bedroom with built-in storage, modern bathroom, hallway and large storage cupboard. one bedroom | modern | great location

VALLANCE ROAD, E1 - £354,995 LEASEHOLD Residing in a popular location, this one double bedroom apartment is located just moments from Whitechapel station and a short walk from Bethnal Green over ground and the popular Weaver’s Fields. one bedroom | balcony | very good decoration

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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See things differently.

13/12/2013 10:10

HOXTON SQUARE, N1- ÂŁ650 PER WEEK

This penthouse offers stylish and comfortable living in one of the most desirable areas of Shoreditch. The penthouse is light, bright and open plan with fantastic views of the London skyline. studio | roof terrace | furnished

HOXTON STREET , N1 - ÂŁ2,200,000

An excellent Investment opportunity to acquire a freehold building in the heart of Hoxton. The property consists of an A3 commercial unit with three upper floors consisting of six flats. commercial | freehold | great location

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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See things differently.

13/12/2013 10:10

ABSOLUTELY Property

Ask the Experts

Our panel of professionals give you the edge in the property market

ANDREW FLINT � 020 7354 3000 / colmancoyle.com

From Colman Coyle gives his expert advice on all your legal property questions

Q. I am hoping to buy a property but the seller has not told me that there is Japanese Knotweed in the back garden. Should I be concerned about this?

Dan Saunders

Kinleigh Folkard & Hayward, Lettings Manager, Islington branch � 020 7359 3636 • kfh.co.uk

A. The short answer is “yes”. Japanese

Q. How to attract the best tenants?

A. Understanding your local market

and how your property is positioned among the others available is key to attracting the best tenant possible. Do your research the same way you would if you were looking – mostly via online portals these days – and see what else is available at a similar price that you are hoping to achieve. Agree on the type of tenant you are looking to attract – is it a couple, family or sharers, and then ask your letting agent for advice on how to target that market. Pricing your property correctly is imperative. You shouldn’t be swayed by unrealistic valuations; instead ask for recent comparables to support the suggested valuation and think about what you could offer to make your home more appealing than others available. This could be anything from a reduction in rental price if the tenant guarantees a longer contract, or a new sofa of the new tenants choice. Finally, always ensure the property is in as good a condition as possible and is spotlessly clean.

Stephen Porter Stirling Ackroyd New Homes � 020 7749 3810; stirlingackroyd.com

Q. Where should I invest?

A. In 2013 Stirling Ackroyd’s New Homes Department has seen interest in Shoreditch and Clerkenwell remain very high, with the new developments here selling rapidly for premium prices. With these two areas now achieving well over £1,000 per sq ft, we are seeing investors increasingly looking further east, west and south.

Towards the east, Hackney has already seen significant price increases, with investors who purchased off plan 12-18 months ago already seeing their investments grow by a staggering 35% in some cases. Broadway Market and Chatham Place fashion hub are going to be investment ‘hot spots’ as the area grows and improves over the next 12 months. The only problem investors may find is that they are already priced out from properties in prime Hackney, as we have already achieved over £800 per sq ft near London Fields.

Looking north, we are seeing investors who previously looked in Clerkenwell now buying in Highbury. The North Stand in Highbury Square that we are selling has attracted significant interest; its location near to Arsenal underground station is a crucial selling point, with residents able to get to the West End in 10 minutes. 1 beds here at Highbury Square start at £360,000, compared to well over £500,000 in Clerkenwell, making it a very good investment for 2014.

Knotweed is an invasive species of plant which can cause damage to properties unless it is treated. In particular, it can affect drains, paths, driveways, boundary walls and outbuildings. The plant is difficult to eradicate and as such, can cause problems in the housing market.

If you are buying the property with the aid of a mortgage, the valuer is required to check the property for the presence of any ‘invasive vegetation’. If the property you are hoping to buy does indeed have the presence of Japanese Knotweed, the existence of it will be reported to the lender. There is no blanket policy that states that just because a property has the presence of the plant, that a lender will not lend. However, due to the difficulty in treating the plant, some lenders have been reluctant to lend in the past.

Most lenders will consider the matter on a case by case basis. At the very least, most lenders will need to know what steps have been taken to try and eradicate the plant and that there will be a treatment programme moving forward. Hopefully, your seller will already have a plan in place and your solicitor will need to obtain a copy of it and forward this to the lender for its approval and this approval will have to be obtained before exchange of contracts can take place.

If the seller does not have a plan in place, you will need to obtain one. There is an organisation called the Property Care Association, which will have a list of members who specialise in treating Japanese Knotweed. This plan will have to be forwarded to the lender for its approval and the lender may make it a condition of your mortgage offer that the plan is implemented.

ASK THE EXPERTS Contact property partner Andrew Flint with no obligation on (0)20 7354 3000 or email andrew.flint@colmancoyle.com  www.colmancoyle.com 80 Upper Street, Islington, N1 0NU

SPOTLIGHT ON: N16 Average asking price - £452,431 | Average asking rents - £1,681 pcm | Average property value - £486,658 Data provided by property website 88

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Gough House, Bolt Court EC4A – Leasehold - £1,695,000 A spectacular three bedroom City apartment. EPC: D Hamptons City & West End Sales: 020 7717 5435

St. Mark Street, E1 – Share of Freehold - £1,175,000 A superb 2 bedroom top floor duplex in Aldgate with parking. EPC: C Hamptons City & West End Sales: 020 7717 5435

Folgate Street E1, £395 per week (charges apply)* A well presented one bedroom apartment in Spitalfields. EPC: E Hamptons City Lettings 020 7717 5437

High Timber Street EC4, £795 per week (charges apply)* Spacious top floor two bedroom apartment near St Pauls. EPC: C Hamptons City Lettings 020 7717 5437

Petherton Road, N5 - £685 per week – Long Let (charges apply)* A character filled duplex, with a plethora of features. EPC:D Islington Lettings: 020 7717 5455

King’s Mews, WC1N - £1250 per week – Long Let (charges apply)* Stunning architecturally designed mews house in Bloomsbury. EPC:C Islington Lettings 020 7717 5455

Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk

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*Tenant Charges: Tenants should note that as well as rent, an administration charge of £216 (Inc. VAT) per property and a referencing charge of £54 (Inc. VAT) per person will apply when renting a property. Please ask us for more information about other fees that may apply or visit www.hamptons.co.uk/rent/tenant-charges

11/12/2013 17:15

IN THEIR OWN

WORDS BRIAN PATTERSON

Sales Manager: Currell, Clerkenwell Photography: Rebecca Noonan

M

y first taste of the property world was back in 1988 as a young teenager of 13, when I had work experience with a company in Farnborough, Hampshire. I spent every day for two weeks photocopying, as I was too shy to pick up the phones. It seems a million miles away now from the life of a City estate agent.

I didn’t return to estate agency until 2002, after years of working as Cabin Crew for British Airways; I just decided one day that I didn’t want to serve tea and coffee anymore! My professional career in estate agency officially started in South Croydon where I worked in Residential Lettings. I then progressed to the West End to Covent Garden before moving on to Bankside to start in Residential Sales. I finally ended up in Clerkenwell in 2006, which is where I later joined Currell, and instantly fell in love with the area.

Clerkenwell is a really unique environment.

In the last few years the residential market here has seen a huge surge in popularity as East London has become a more desirable place to live, effectively turning the area from quite a commercial place, to a village within the City. The presence of media and advertising companies as well as wealthy new residents has brought with it some world class restaurants, upscale gastro-pubs and kooky bars, ensuring it is no longer deserted in the evening or weekends. Smithfield Market is also great, keeping the tradition of the area alive

but particularly in bringing visitors here who may otherwise overlook it.

My typical buyers here tend to be architects, bankers and lawyers who are drawn to the good connections to the City and West End, as well as the architecture of property available. Because of its commercial past, Clerkenwell property tends to be warehouse or period conversions, giving unique character homes, as long as you can get hold of them!

I am beginning to see demand from buyers who live in West London in areas like Notting Hill or Bayswater who now see Clerkenwell as offering them better value for money in a central London location. This year I sold two identical apartments in the same building but seven months apart. The apartment I sold seven months later sold for an astonishing 11% more, working out at around £1,028 per sq ft. Back in 2006, property here was selling for around £600 per sq ft. Prices are of course being affected by Crossrail, which even before completion is driving values upwards.

When it is finally completed Clerkenwell will arguably be one of the best connected central London areas, with fast links to Canary Wharf and Heathrow. I anticipate that demand over the next few years will only increase as Crossrail reveals Clerkenwell to be one of the most quirky and thriving areas in the capital.

020 7253 2533; currell.com

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ABSOLUTELY Property

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faronsutaria.co.uk

SALES & LETTINGS

CALABRIA ROAD, N5 An impressive ground floor period conversion situated in a premier road close to Highbury Fields.

Offering well balanced accommodation, with a feature glass side extension. Energy Rating: D. 5 bedrooms, bathroom, 2 reception rooms, garden. £800,000 Freehold Share 020 7293 0648 islington@faronsutaria.co.uk

SALES • LETTINGS • AUCTIONS • PROPERTY FINANCE • SURVEYS • CONVEYANCING

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OUR SERVICE WILL MOVE YOU 10/12/2013 09/12/2013 09:40 17:15

Abs

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SALES & LETTINGS

SHEPPERTON ROAD, N1 A Grade II Listed period house offering high quality accommodation arranged over 3 floors. The front door on the ground level opens into a spacious hallway, which passes through the kitchen and into one of the receptions. Energy Rating: D. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 receptions, garden. £1,125,000 Freehold 020 7293 0648 islington@faronsutaria.co.uk

SALES • LETTINGS • AUCTIONS • PROPERTY FINANCE • SURVEYS • CONVEYANCING

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OUR SERVICE WILL MOVE YOU 10/12/2013 09/12/2013 09:40 17:15

ABSOLUTELY Property

Spotlight on SHOREDITCH A

ANDREW BLYTHE Lettings Manager Stirling Ackroyd � 020 7749 3838; stirlingackroyd.com

New Inn Yard, Shoreditch, EC2 £900 Per Week

truly superb 1450 sq ft loft apartment, interior designed throughout in the heart of the Shoreditch triangle. This spectacular apartment truly needs to be seen to be fully appreciated featuring a large open plan living space, floor to ceiling industrial warehouse windows throughout, fully integrated semi open plan kitchen, original exposed floorboards throughout, stunning interior design, large master bedroom with walk in wardrobe, second bedroom or study, two bathrooms, utility room and plenty of fitted storage.

7

7

THROUGH THE KEYHOLE...

Master Bedroom

This bedroom really gives a sense of the word boudoir, with shabby-chic original white floorboards, pink wall and fantastic art pieces.

7

7 Study A large sliding door opens onto the study/ guest bedroom with a view of East London reminiscent of a New York City apartment.

This space could be an extension to the master bedroom, separate bedroom, or work space.

7

7 Reception The fantastic feature box wall was designed and stencilled by the current owners. It creates a contemporary space for relaxing, or entertaining whilst enjoying dual aspect views.

SPORTS AND RECREATION

NICK VERDI Office Manager, Keatons � 020 3535 7788; keatons.com

FUN FOR FREE RAINY DAY

BEST SCHOOL

Visit the Geoffrye Museum, Dennis Servers House at 18 Folgate Street or just wonder around spitalfields market.

Columbia Road Primary School – Always had a great reputation amongst local residence and the Ofsted inspectors tend to agree.

Peticote Lane Market, Brick Lane on a Sunday, Columbia Road Flower Market on a Sunday or Broadway market on a Saturday – take your pick, they are all great fun!

I’ve always loved football and recently started again playing 5-a-side at the Powerleague centre off Bethnal Green Road with a few colleagues. Great that we can go from work to on the football pitch in under a minute!

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ABSOLUTELY Property

HAMPTONS INTERNATIONAL LAUNCHES ITS ‘DRAW YOUR PERFECT SANTA SLEIGH’ DRAWING COMPETITION FOR LOCAL CHILDREN

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

H

amptons International’s Islington branch has launched a Christmas Drawing Competition aimed at both nursery school children and primary school children. The “Draw your perfect Santa’s Sleigh” and “Decorate Santa and his Sleigh” competition is open to all primary school children at William Tyndale and Canonbury Primary.

Children from nursery classes are encouraged to participate in this festive competition by colouring in the Santa’s Sleigh, whilst the older primary school children can get creative by drawing their vision of the famous sleigh scene. All competition entries are prominently displayed in the local Hamptons International branch window for visitors to admire from now through to the New Year.

Hamptons International are encouraging members of the public to visit the branch and vote for their favorite picture. The lucky winners of the competition will be awarded with a deluxe art kit, whilst £200 have been donated to each of the schools. The winning entries will also be displayed in prime position in the Hamptons International branch window throughout the Christmas period.

Andrew Gillon Director at Hamptons International in Islington comments: “We are delighted to be organising this creative competition for the children in our local community. Working together with the local community is incredibly important to us as a business and we are committed to giving something back to the areas we work and live in. Thank you to all those who have entered the competition, it has been such a fantastic initiative and we’re absolutely thrilled with the results from everyone involved! We’re so impressed with the standard this year and are pleased to display the winning entries in our window over the festive season.”

ur ded ated tea o ro ana er a ed on er ro de a roa t e ro e er e n all a e t o ro ana e ent

ert treet onal ert

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

� 020 7717 5103; hamptons.co.uk

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SALES

Archway Road, Archway, N19 | ÂŁ360,000 Leasehold A very quirky architect designed one bed maisonette, arranged over 3 levels of a converted period building. The apartment comprises living area, fitted kitchen, WC, mezzanine bedroom, stunning basement with tiled flooring, bed/study area, sauna, and shower room.

Masionette | 1 bedroom | Fitted kitchen | Close transportation links | Sauna | EPC Rating: Band D

Huddlestone Road, Tufnell Park, N7 | ÂŁ340,000 Share of Freehold This delightful one bed flat on the top floor of a converted end of terrace house. Offered in good decorative order, the property comprises of a reception, open plan fitted kitchen, one double bedroom, and tiled bathroom. Huddlestone Road is a popular residential street.

Period conversion | One bedroom | Reception | Open plan kitchen | Terrace | EPC Rating: Band C

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LETTINGS

Christchurch Road, Crouch End, N8 | ÂŁ270.00 Per Week Siuated in the Heart of Crouch End is this newly refurbished one bedroom period ground floor conversion flat which is offered in excellant order and offers newly fitted kitchen, spacious lounge with sash windows,bedroom, newly fiited bathroom and communal garden.

Newly refurbished | Period conversion | Fitted kitchen | Newly fitted bathroom | Communal garden | EPC Rating: Band D

Sturmer Way, Holloway N7 | ÂŁ265.00 Per Week A spacious 1 double bedroom flat set on the first floor of this local authority development situated towards the Northern end of Caledonian Road. There is a open-plan kitchen/ reception room with access to a balcony, well proportioned bedroom, bathroom and good provision for storage.

1 bedroom apartment | Open plan kitchen | Reception room | Balcony | Storage space | EPC Rating: Band B

407-409 Holloway Road London N7 6HP t: 020 7607 5001 drivers.co.uk Drivers and Norris_C&A_JAN.indd 3

12/12/2013 14:52

Call on 020 7354 3000 for a FREE quote Commercial & Residential Property Corporate & Commercial Disputes Employment Insolvency Wills & Probate

HELP WITH THE LEGAL ISSUES WHEN YOU BUY OR SELL YOUR HOUSE

Andrew

Partner Residential Property

“ highly recommend Andrew lint. e is e tremely courteous efficient and thorough.”

“A very efficient service. Colman Coyle did particularly well dealing with difficulties arising at the last minute.”

PROPERTY LAW SERVICE

Buying or Selling Commercial Property Enfranchisement Landlord & Tenant Lease Extensions Property Disputes

pper treet slington ondon 020 7354 3000 property@colmancoyle.com

www.colmancoyle.com

orward thin ing straight tal ing COLEMAN COYLE_C&A_JAN.indd 2

1984 - 2014

anniversary

Celebrating 30 YEARS in business | 1984 - 2014

09/12/2013 12:38

INTRODUCING

ISLINGTON TO N1C Knight Frank are proud to be the leading agent of ArtHouse, which is the first residential building to be completed at the new King’s Cross N1C postcode.

A selection of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom luxury apartments are available to let immediately.

For more information please call Knight Frank Islington on +44 203 551 4459 or visit Knightfrank.co.uk/islington

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After the umpteenth year, the self-made man rested.

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Offices throughout London

Gray’s Inn Road, WC1X

£2,500,000

Hillsborough Court, NW6

£320,000

A unique & stunning investment located in the heart of mid-town close to Chancery Lane and Kings Cross station. Townhouse currently arranged as office space & three apartments with two, one bedroom flats & a two bedroom basement flat. Freehold. EPC = C

A magnificent Grade II listed townhouse located moments from Mornington Crescent underground, Euston and Kings Cross St Pancras stations. This substantial home provides a refitted kitchen and bathroom and communal gardens. Freehold. EPC = C

Bloomsbury Office 020 7291 0655Bloomsbury@edmundcude.com

Bloomsbury Office 020 7291 0655Bloomsbury@edmundcude.com

Essex Road, N1

Medburn Street, NW1

£3,800,000

£1,195,000

An opportunity to purchase commercial premises with unit above in a prime central location with development potential (no planning permission secured), approximately 8,500 square ft. Freehold.

A magnificent Grade II listed townhouse located moments from Mornington Crescent underground, Euston and Kings Cross St Pancras stations. This substantial home provides a refitted kitchen and bathroom and communal gardens. Freehold. EPC = C

Bloomsbury Office 020 7291 0655Bloomsbury@edmundcude.com

Bloomsbury Office 020 7291 0655Bloomsbury@edmundcude.com

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

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m

Cromer Street, WC1H

£550,000

A large ground floor local authority apartment providing two double bedrooms just moments from King›s Cross St Pancras and Russell Square stations. Close to Bloomsbury›s Brunswick centre the apartment is ideal for any buyer looking to have easy access to London’s west end, the property benefits from open plan living space lift and balcony. Leasehold. EPC = B

Bloomsbury Office 020 7291 0655Bloomsbury@edmundcude.com

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

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£615,000 Leasehold Mildmay Road, N1

• Garden maisonette

• Two double bedrooms • Eat in kitchen/diner • EPC D

£699,999 Leasehold Westbourne Road, N7 • 2 bedroom period flat • Master bedroom with en-suite • Open plan reception room • EPC C

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CurrellResidential

£1,495,000 Freehold Stamford Road, N1 • Period family house • 5 bedrooms • 2 receptions • West facing mature garden • EPC E

020 7226 4200 islington@currell.com

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www.currell.com

12/12/2013 11:36

Stirling Ackroyd All around the City EC1V

E1 £525,000

£1,275,000

SHOREDITCH SALES – STRYPE STREET A well-presented 2 bedroom apartment set within a well maintained Victorian mansion block ideally located for Liverpool Street station. EPC E

CLERKENWELL SALES – DALLINGTON STREET A beautifully presented 2 bedroom apartment in a small development in Clerkenwell offering 1,238 sq ft. EPC pending

SE1

WC1R

£725,000

£865,000

BANKSIDE SALES – TANGERINE HOUSE A superb 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment located on the 3rd floor of this striking modern development near Bermondsey Street. EPC E

WEST END SALES – RED LION STREET A 2 bedroom duplex apartment with own front door at street level, in close proximity to Holborn station. EPC C

SHOREDITCH 020 7749 3838

CLERKENWELL 020 7549 0606

HACKNEY 020 7749 3807

WEST END 020 7256 3244

IBIZA 0034 971 326 788

ISTANBUL +90 (0)444 4493

BANKSIDE 020 7940 3888

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EC2A

EC1

£900 pw

£650 pw

SHOREDITCH LETTINGS – NEW INN YARD A 1,450 sq ft loft apartment with a large open plan living space, floor to ceiling warehouse windows & beautifully designed interiors. EPC pending

CLERKENWELL LETTINGS – SAFFRON HILL A superb 2 double bedroom duplex apartment with large reception room & private balcony in close proximity to Farringdon Station. EPC C

SE1

EC4A

£475 pw

BANKSIDE LETTINGS – NEW GLOBE WALK An outstanding 1 bedroom apartment offering over 800 sq ft of space on the 4th floor of a converted warehouse in the heart of Bankside. EPC B

£620 pw

WEST END LETTINGS – RED LION COURT An impressive lower ground floor apartment situated in a brand new residential development close to Fleet Street. EPC B

LETTINGS PRICES EXCLUDE ADDITIONAL FEES. PLEASE SEE WEBSITE FOR DETAILS.

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We are kn ght frank Residential Sales and Lettings.

Visit our office at 353 Upper Street to find out more, or call 020 3641 6138.

KnightFrank.co.uk/islington

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