CHELSEA MARCH 2014 by ABSOLUTELY Magazines

ABSOLUTELY CHELSEA Chelsea

MARCH 2014 2014 MARCH £3.95 £3.95

MOTHER

LOVE WELCOME SPRING WITH MOTHER’S DAY

Chanel

PROFESSOR OF FRAGRANCE ON NO. 5

Frank Lampard THE FOOTBALLER, THE AUTHOR

Mark Hix

WHAT I TAUGHT TRACEY EMIN

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struttandparker.com

Justice Walk, SW3

An exceptional newly refurbished two double bedroom maisonette in an attractive double fronted building in this quiet backwater at the heart of Chelsea.

ÂŁ2,250,000 Share of Freehold

Chelsea Sales 020 7225 3866 chelsea@struttandparker.com

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Lennox Gardens, SW1

An excellent two double bedroom, two bathroom, first floor flat, benefitting from use of the communal garden and caretaker situated moments from Harrods.

£940 per week* Furnished

1,033 sq ft (96 sq m) EPC Rating D Reception | Kitchen | Two bedrooms | Two bathrooms | Communal gardens

Chelsea Lettings 020 7589 9966 chelsea.lettings@struttandparker.com

*The following Tenant charges may apply prior to tenancy commencement: Tenancy Agreement £210 (inc VAT) Credit References per application £54 (inc VAT). All advertised prices are excluded and other associated services.

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ABSOLUTELY CHELSEA

EDITOR EDWINA LANGLEY CHIEF EDITORIAL ASSISTANT CATHERINE HALES FASHION FEATURES EDITOR VIOLET NAYLOR-LEYLAND INTERIORS EDITOR TARA CRAIG TRAVEL EDITOR GEORGIE LANE-GODFREY CONTRIBUTING EDITOR EMMA STOREY ADVERTISING ACCOUNT MANAGER NICOLA OWENS GROUP PROPERTY DIRECTOR ALEXANDRA HUNTER • property editor HUGO HUNTER CENTRAL PROPERTY MANAGER ANNA HUTTON-POTTS ART DIRECTOR RAY SEARLE • Senior deSigner PHIL COUZENS DESIGNERS GEMMA ISTEED, TAHIR KAPUCU, ANDREW MAVIN • ArtWorKer EKREM YILMAZ • junior deSigner EDWARD TAYLOR PRODUCTION MANAGER STEWART HYDE • production ASSiStAnt CHRISTINE MANN • FinAnce director ALEXANDRA HVID DIRECTOR GREG HUGHES MANAGING DIRECTOR SHERIF SHALTOUT PA TO THE MANAGING DIRECTOR MARIANNE MCFADDEN

Published by ZEST MEDIA PUBLICATIONS LTD 213 WESTBOURNE STUDIOS, ACKLAM ROAD W10 5JJ WWW.ZEST-MEDIA.COM T: 020 7704 0588 F: 020 7900 3020 Zest Media Publications 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 Publications Ltd. take no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved.

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Swiss movement, English heart

Bespoke ETA 2824-2 Jumping Hour automatic modification by Master Watchmaker Johannes Jahnke / Each piece, of only 250, personally assembled by Johannes and his team in Switzerland / 43mm, surgical grade stainless steel case with sapphire crystal and transparent case back / CITES certified, premium grade, Louisiana alligator deployment strap / 5 year movement guarantee

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Destined to create the world’s most beautiful bathrooms

Showrooms located at Mayfair I Clerkenwell I Knightsbridge I Battersea I Wandsworth I Selfridges I Kent I Surrey I Sussex For enquiries please call 0333 011 3333 ‘At Home Design Service’ available see website for details

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MARCH / 2014

CONTENTS 9 11

ABSOLUTELY LOVES

Absolutely’s top picks this month

TALKING TOPICS

What’s on and buzzing in Chelsea

STYLE 21 FASHION NOTES

A 130-year birthday and a dress Miranda Priestly would never wear

26 BABES IN THE WOOD

As spring comes into bloom we welcome this season’s florals

41 BEAUTY CONFIDENTIAL

A strenuous pilates class and top advice from weight loss expert Louise Parker

53 MEN ONLY

EDITOR’S letter

t’s not often you reach for the stars and actually get one. It would have to be quite an extraordinary star, wouldn’t it, to let itself be bothered by us mortals? It is with huge elation (and much surprise) that I can announce we did actually catch a star. And they were, indeed, extraordinary. Kind, considerate, totally un-starry (ironically) and very down to earth, which must be why we caught him. Frank Lampard is not only one of the world’s best-known sportsmen, but also, a stellar children’s author. In the wake of World Book Day, he speaks to me about his passion for children’s literature, his love of writing and all things football focused – past, present and (yes, Chelsea fans) future too. ENJOY. [Deep breath, reaches for fan, fans face, calms down.] We also celebrate

Gucci’s Cruise Collection, an alternate meaning for ‘stiffies’ and a great haircut

FEATURES 36 MOTHER KNOWS BEST

Tom Aikens, Caroline Charles and other Chelsea faces reveal their mothers’ tips

the wonder of all mothers with lots of special Mother’s Day features. Famous Chelsea residents – Caroline Charles, Tom Aikens, Theo Fennell and more – recall their mothers’ tips, whilst Professor of Fragrance at Chanel, Joanna Norman, tells us how to smell yummy (like mummy) with her scent inspirations. Master of Cool (and restaurateur) Mark Hix chats about cooking with Tracey Emin (and reveals why Damien Hirst has hung fish coffins in his restaurant), whilst broadcaster Sue Lawley OBE reports from the eastern banks of Hong Kong. So lots and lots to read (appropriate we thought, for World Book Day). But before I let you get on with it, I would like to end by dedicating this issue to my mother: a beautiful, kind and courageous woman, and an all-round star in her own right.

46 LITERARY GOALS

Footballer Frank Lampard talks to Edwina Langley about writing children’s books and which teams to watch this World Cup

70 THE ART OF GOOD FOOD

Chef and restaurateur Mark Hix on Tracey Emin, hanging Damien Hirst mobiles and why he loves lobster

INTERIORS 59 INTERIOR INSPIRATIONS

Edward Lear’s ‘The Owl and the Pussycat’ influence Tara Craig and Emma Storey

FOOD&TRAVEL 61 RESTAURANT REVIEW Edwina Langley takes Le Colombier with a pinch of salt

78 BRAVE NEW WORLD

Broadcaster Sue Lawley OBE explores former British colony, Hong Kong

80 HEAVEN SPENT

Henry Morley finds African luxury lodges with surprisingly inexpensive price tags

PROPERTY 98 PRIME PURCHASE

A three bedroom Knightsbridge apartment with garden access? Yes please

110 PROPERTY NEWS News and views on the area

Edwina Langley

Editor

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

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Original, limited-edition Art Deco posters by leading artists

Limited to editions of 280, our posters feature glamorous resorts along the Côte d’Azur, in the French and Swiss Alps, as well as the world’s greatest historic automobiles. Printed on 100% cotton fine art paper, they are signed, hand-numbered and bear our embossed stamp of authenticity. Each poster is approximately 97 x 65 cms (38 x 26 inches).

Price: £395 each inc. VAT, unframed

Pullman Editions Ltd 94 Pimlico Road Chelsea London SW1W 8PL www.pullmaneditions.com Tel: +44 (0)20 7730 0547 Email: georgina@pullmaneditions.com

Our central London gallery

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MARIE CHANTAL SS14 Collection

EDI

PICTOR’S K

Absolutely

 Children grow up so quickly it really is a case of ‘new season, new wardrobe’. Marie Chantal has some delightful offerings – striped blazers for boys, piped dresses for girls – and lots of ideas for baby too (dolly trousers and tie waist chinos). We love. 148 Walton Street, SW3, 020 7838 1111; mariechantal.co.uk

PEGGY PORSCHEN & LAURENT-PERRIER TEA

st muave h

BAMBOO SILK WRAP DRESS

WAITROSE FLOWERS

▼ Made of 100% silk, this bamboo print front panel dress combines ‘appropriate’ with ‘look at me’ elegance. Figure-hugging, chic and unusual, this day dress is ideal for formal events. £195, Available from Topshop, Cardinal Place, SW1, 020 7828 6139; topshop.com

Not that we’d necessarily choose flowers from a supermarket over wild offerings from a field but Chelsea seems rather lacking in meadows of late. Pop into Waitrose for a seasonal bunch this month. Prices vary, 196 King’s Road, 020 7351 2775; waitrose.com

By Unique

MUNGO & MAUD LUNA COLLECTION how your pooch you care with the Luna Collection from Mungo & Maud. Made of soft, cosy linen, the Luna Dog Beds come in ‘fairy pink’ or ‘powder blue’, in small or large, so there are many good doggy night’s sleep ahead, whatever sized pup you have. £185/£275, 79 Elizabeth Street, SW1, 020 7022 1207; mungoandmaud.com

L O V E S

▼ Back by popular demand, this tea is the ultimate Mothering Sunday treat: mini strawberry and champagne cupcakes, red velvet cake, a cold glass of Laurent-Perrier Cuvée Rosé and, of course, a pot of tea. Book fast! 28-30th March, £32 pp, Peggy’s Parlour, 116 Ebury Street, 020 7730 1316; peggyporschen.com

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THE LEADING FAIR FOR CONTEMPORARY CERAMICS AT THE ROYAL COLLEGE OF ART, LONDON Friday 4 – Sunday 6 April 2014 Celebrating its 10th anniversary, Ceramic Art London is the international showcase of contemporary ceramics. A unique event of excellence in an expanding world market with opportunities to meet and buy from leading makers. The essential destination for collectors, enthusiasts, curators, teachers, and students.

Image: Angela Mellor

OPENING TIMES Friday 4 April, 10am-6pm Saturday 5 April, 10am-6pm Sunday 6 April, 10am-5pm ADMISSION Adult £12, Concession £9, Three-day pass £25 All tickets include a full colour catalogue and entry to events programme FURTHER DETAILS Online: www.ceramics.org.uk Email: organiser@ceramics.org.uk Tel: +44 (0)20 3137 0750

Presented by the Craft Potters Association at the Royal College of Art, London

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ART&CULTURE don’t miss

MARCH

Talking TOPICS

BOOK review

THE OLDIE BOOK OF CARTOONS Published by Oldie Publications Ltd £7.99

By Alice Coke

ll cartoonists are geniuses,’ wrote the novelist John Updike, who dreamt of being an illustrator. If he were alive today he would enjoy this new bumper compilation of 500 humorous drawings, (over 75 of which are in colour), specially selected by Richard Ingrams, the editor of The Oldie. Ever since he and his friends helped to found the iconic Private Eye in 1962, Ingrams has loved cartoons. He is concerned that although many readers immediately turn to them when they read The Oldie, or Private Eye, cartoonists’ achievements are seldom given due recognition. As witty as the 19th century satirical magazine Punch this brilliant collection revives the tradition of illustrated storytelling for a new generation. Featuring all the traditional cartoon subjects, including people marooned on desert islands, suicidal businessmen on the window ledge and henpecked husbands. The mad media world in which we live today is providing plenty of new subjects, especially in the sphere of technology - with mobiles, Kindles, Facebook and Twitter all featured. A great coffee table book guaranteed to blow away any wild weather blues and entertain your guests. It would make an ideal present for your parents and grandparents.

FILM review

THE GRAND B U DA P E ST H OT E L

he Grand Budapest Hotel, written and directed by Wes Anderson, is a surreal tale within a tale within a tale, whose core recounts the adventures of M. Gustave H (Ralph Fiennes), head concierge of a grand European hotel and his protégé, Zero Mustafa (Tony Revolori). The faintly ludicrous action is set between the wars in the fictional mittel-European Alpine country of Zubrowka, and tells the story of the battle for a vast fortune and priceless painting following the mysterious death of a supremely wealthy dowager countess (wonderfully aged Tilda Swinton). Immediately recognisable as the work of Anderson, this film is exquisitely shot and beautifully composed. The film is cartoon-like in its sharp focus and bold colours, as well as its superficial goodies-

versus-baddies plot. At times style trumps substance and there are several longwinded and slap stick scenes. Not least when Gustave enlists, to aid his flight, the help of the Society of the Crossed Keys, the secret international society of grand hotel concierges, headed up by Bill Murray, one of many famous faces to make a brief appearance. This is a well choreographed scene, but, like many in this film, adds little to the narrative. Despite the hints of pantomime, the star-studded film remains captivating as Gustave is pursued by the late countess’ ruthless son Dmitri (Adrien Brody) and his silent henchman played chillingly by Willem Dafoe. By Camilla Norton DIRECTED BY Wes Anderson STARRING Ralph Fiennes, F. Murray Abraham IN CINEMAS NATIONWIDE, FROM 7 MARCH

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Book Picks 01 EAT DRINK NAP

Soho House £30 Preface Publishing Cooking, style and decoration from Soho House – the world’s leading member’s club. Bound up, lavishly illustrated and fatted with expert tips, with this volume you can take home some of that glamour and grit, and rustle up some stylish living for yourself, perhaps even try some of the dishes. Foodies takes note: house favourite ‘macaroni cheese’ recipe is included.

02 CONFRONTING THE CLASSICS

Paula Byrne £9.99 William Collins Jane Austen had an adopted brother? And she had relations in the East and West Indies? Surely not... The conventional and widely assumed picture of Austen – a retiring spinster beavering quietly away from the thrust of society – is dispelled in this exploration of her life through her possessions, which reveal a much more socially-, politically- and modernminded persuasion.

Mary Beard £9.99 Profile Books Our rich classical heritage explored in this collection of essays from the always readable (and watchable) Mary Beard. From Greek drama to Roman jokes, Beard takes in Alexander the Great, Cleopatra, Boudica and Asterix to name a few. This is everyman classical scholarship and a reminder why it remains forever relevant.

03 THE NEWS: A USER’S MANUAL

Alain de Botton £18.99 Hamish Hamilton Ltd News is the religion of modern society given a greater foothold into daily life through the gateways of technology. From civil wars to disasters, both natural and unnatural, and the inevitable celebrity sleaze, we are enthralled daily, if not hourly. Alain de Botton analyses how and why and instils a lot of understanding to ease our rapacious consumption. This would suit those who enjoyed de Botton’s last book Religion for Atheists.

04 THE REAL JANE AUSTEN

05 SANE NEW WORLD

Ruby Wax £8.99 Hodder & Stoughton Self-help with an un-typical knowledgeable bent, following the author’s own periods of depression and a Masters from Oxford in Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, explaining how our sanity can be jeopardised by our minds. A manual for saner living brought to life – and use – by Wax’s acute insight and searing, honest wit.

06 RED JOAN

Jennie Rooney £7.99 Vintage A gripping spy novel with an unlikely culprit and a thoroughly researched basis in fact. A story of friendship, love, loss and betrayal. And a tale of how a normal person might be led to betray their country, or even themselves. This book would be perfect for fans of William Boyd’s Restless. Supplied by Belgravia Books, 59 Ebury Street, SW1, 020 7259 9336; belgraviabooks.com

must see

NEW ORDER II BRITISH ART TODAY Until 23 March Saatchi Gallery The second instalment of the Saatchi Gallery’s initiative to showcase emerging talent, New Order II contains the work of 13 artists and takes up an entire floor in the gallery. The works on display range from sculpture and painting, to installation and video, with traditional and contemporary techniques often being used in conjunction to create a new visual language and revitalise the old. The perfect exhibition for anyone looking to discover the next big thing in British art. Duke Of York’s HQ, SW3, 020 7811 3070; saatchigallery.com

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ART&CULTURE

VEE SPEERS BORDELLO 4 March - 12 April The Little Black Gallery Racy without being crude, Vee Speers’ Bordello is a lesson in sensuality. Speers has been described by Karl Lagerfeld as being able to ‘show beauty where beauty can be terribly absent’, a fact which becomes apparent in her study of the romantic decadence of brothels in the 1920s and 30s. 13A Park Walk, SW1, 020 7349 9332; thelittleblackgallery.com

Ceramic Art London 4-6 April Royal College of Art This April marks the 10th anniversary of Ceramic Art London and the successful and popular art fair looks set for another decade. Featuring the subtle stylings of Louisa Taylor, the punchy pastels of Matthew Chambers and the intricately interesting works of Myung Nam An, Ceramic Art London provides a fantastic opportunity to explore. Kensington Gore, SW7, 020 7590 4444; ceramics.org.uk

Artist of the Month CHELSEA ART CONSULTANT, NICHOLAS CAMPBELL, CHOOSES MARCH’S TOP TALENT LEONID TISHKOV f you have been inspired by China’s recent moon landing, or you’re quite simply a bit of a romantic then this is a great chance to own your own moon of sorts. Russia’s Leonid Tishkov has been travelling the world with his illuminated crescent companion and along the way

he produced the stunningly beautiful photographic body of work called ‘Private Moon’. These images are both evocative and nostalgic, reminding us of childhood fairy tales in far and pleasant lands. This piece in particular has a calm yet haunting quality; a beautiful and highly desirable piece of work. Works from £4,000. Nicholas is Head Consultant and Director of Narcissus Arts; narcissusarts.com

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Where Henry VIII entertained his closest companions... England’s most famous kings and queens, including Henry VIII, dazzled audiences of ambassadors, courtiers, cardinals and dignitaries with the grandeur and majesty of Hampton Court Palace. Host your magnificent event at one of the greatest palaces ever built.

• • • • • •

Beautiful gardens Magnificent state rooms 15 to 500 guests 10 different venue areas Indoor and outdoor spaces Convenient road and rail links from London

Entertain your guests at Hampton Court Palace hrp.org.uk/hireavenue | 0844 482 1462 Historic Royal Palaces private events: Tower of London • Hampton Court Palace • Banqueting House • Kensington Palace

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ART&CULTURE CHELSEA Country Diary

Teenage Cancer Trust ED SHEERAN

24 March Royal Albert Hall Everything about Ed Sheeran’s career seems slightly unlikely. Born in Halifax, discovered in LA by Jamie Foxx, reached number 2 in the iTunes chart before even been signed and is now best friends with Taylor Swift. He will be appear at the Royal Albert Hall as part of the Teenage Cancer Trust. Seeing is believing. Kensington Gore, SW7, 020 7589 8212; royalalberthall.com

CRUFTS

6-9 March The NEC Arena he annual event all dog-lovers look forward to that sees canine T competitors of all shapes and sizes battle it out for the coveted blue ribbon is once again in the offing. Attracting over 135,000 visitors from all over the world, Crufts has cemented its reputation as the most prestigious dog show on earth - the Wimbledon of the canine world, you might say. The event has much to offer outside of the legendary Best in Show awards, including various other competitions, such as the popular Discover Dogs area, which allows people to interact with over 190 different breeds of dogs. Birmingham, B40 1NT, 0121 780 4141; crufts.org.uk

OXFORD LITERARY FESTIVAL

22-30 March Christ Church College eld in the hallowed seat of learning that is Christ Church College, Oxford, H the Literary Festival has gained a prestigious reputation that attracts over 350 writers each year. This year’s impressive roster of speakers includes 2013 Man Booker Prize-winner Eleanor Catton and multi-award

winning Irish novelist Sebastian Barry. Visitors to the eight-day festival can book in to join guided literary walks, lunches and dinner parties with prominent authors and even participate in the creative writing programme. St Aldate’s, Oxford, OX1 1DP, 0203 697 4308; oxfordliteraryfestival.org

THE CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL

11-14 March Cheltenham Racecourse he biggest event in any race-goers calendar, The Cheltenham Festival T draws crowds of over 230,000 people and offers a total prize money of £3.67 million. Day one is Champion Day and features parade of past champions, pre-racing interviews, as well as the most important hurdle race of the season, The Stan James Champion Hurdle. Day two is Ladies Day and also sees the Queen Mother Champion Chase kick off, but the most captivating competition will undoubtedly be the award given for Best Dressed Lady. Day four is Irish in theme with the Ladbrokes World Hurdle and the Ryanair Chase. The Festival culminates on Friday with the Betfred Cheltenham Gold Cup, the highlight of the Jump season. Cheltenham, GL50 4SH, 01242 513014; cheltenham.co.uk

FROM BRITAIN WITH LOVE Until 2 March The Gallery Charlotte Partridge exhibits her mot recent collection. ‘From Britain With Love’ brings together a broad spectrum of work from the London to Balmoral, Jersey to Cornwall and even Chelsea. Stunning rural landscapes are balanced by iconic urban images and best of all, it’s quintessentially British. 54 Shepherd Market, W1, 07811 205 666; charlottepartridge.com

PLANT OF THE MONTH with CLEMMIE HAMBRO

CAMELLIA X WILLIAMSII

‘DONATION’

orticulturally speaking, you can’t mess about in March. It’s about preparation, preparation, preparation, folks. It might still be freezing and tipping it down, but those broad beans and summer annuals are not going to sow themselves. So, get to it. Or not… and instead make a cup of tea and look lovingly out the window at Camellia x williamsii ‘Donation’. A perfectly pink beauty that flowers for yonks, it’s terribly cheering while things are still a bit on the bleak side out there. Who wants broad beans when you could be eating chocolate Hobnobs anyway?

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Single Estate Spirits CHASE VODKA.indd Country Life.indd 12

19/12/2013 12:35 7/8/13 16:39:55

absolutely / SOCIAL DRESS UP WE LOVE A DEBUT WOMENSWEAR collection and we especially love that SS14 Madderson London one by Sara Madderson and Helen Hughes. Famous faces including Tamara Beckwith, Sally Humphreys and Yasmin Mills loved it too, for they piled into Beaufort House to show their support. Cocktails were sipped, canapés munched and DJ Adam Ficek’s kept the party going until late into the night. Who needs a catwalk?

Birthday Blues THE KNOWLEDGE THAT BOUJIS CELEBRATED its 11th birthday recently made us feel very old indeed. We must have a Crack Baby to get over it. Which is exactly what partygoers did to mark the occasion. Guests such as glam-gal-in-blue Shirley Leigh Wood Oakes and Sarah Hyde (also in blue), partied hard till the early hours, testament to the fact that whilst the Boujis crowd may dress in blue, no one can say they don't paint the town red.

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the new

VICTORIANS Catherine Hales TAKES A PEEK AT THE ONGOING TRANSFORMATION OF Victoria or an area located an equidistant stone’s throw from both Buckingham Palace and the Houses of Parliament, Victoria has been somewhat overlooked. It has always been known for the station, the famous Army & Navy Stores (that has since become House of Fraser’s flagship location) and its proximity to some of the swankiest addresses in town – including both Eaton and Belgrave Squares. Not that Victoria doesn’t have its high points; The Goring

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BEHIND THE SCENES

Hotel for example, located in Beeston Place, with its legendary gardens and famous associations (hosting the Middleton family during the Royal Wedding, for one) is a recognised Victoria institution. In spite of this though, the area has never been a ‘destination’, it’s only been a stopoff. Until now. In recent years, some of the savvier businesses and developers have picked up on the possibilities of Victoria, with some big fashion names arriving in the vicinity including Tom Ford, Burberry, Giorgio Armani and Jimmy Choo, to name but a few. SW1’s stock has also soared with the arrival of the cultural faction lead by contemporary art auctioneer, Phillips, and the first theatre complex to be built in London in three decades, the St. James Theatre, which has, in turn, encouraged a burgeoning food scene. This renaissance, although long overdue, has not happened entirely organically and one of the driving forces behind the transformation has been FTSE 100 property developer, Land Securities. Historically, the residential appeal of Victoria has been limited; faceless mansion flats chosen by politicians wanting to be close to the House of Commons when summoned to vote by the Division bell. This, too, is set to change, with the construction of the Nova Building. A high-end residential complex, The Nova Building, situated on Buckingham Palace Road, will mark the final step in the £2.2 billion renaissance carried out by

NOVA HOPES TO OFFER NOT JUST RESIDENCES BUT ALSO A NEW FORM OF COMMUNITY

Land Securities. The building itself will provide 193,000 square feet of contemporary high-quality apartments and be part of the wider ‘Nova, Victoria’, which will eventually comprise five buildings, set for completion between March and June 2016. The fully pedestrianised and, no doubt, meticulously landscaped area that faces Victoria, hopes to offer not just residences but also a new form of community – where locals and tourists alike (attracted by the West End), will gather to shop, eat, drink and socialise. I was lucky enough to attend a launch event early in December for The Nova Building, held in the Victoria Pavilion in Cardinal Place, another highly Land Securities addition to the area. There, I was able to talk to the project press officer, Niravta Mathur, who guided me through the party, pointing out the various movers and shakers in the area and also directing my attention to the impressive models, which showed what the building and the area will look like in a few years time. When I enquired as to the type of person

expected to rent or buy the apartments in the residential building, the answer was open-ended: in short, anyone (with money, I might imagine). It seemed that although Nova, London is definitely aspiring to a certain aesthetic, it has been designed to appeal to new families, businessmen and women, and young professionals. The aim is not to gloss over what Victoria was, but rather to realise what it always could have been – a ‘destination’ not just a terminus – and to rebrand and launch it as exactly that. 19

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OSKA CHELSEA HAVE MOVED But not very far. We are delighted to announce that we have relocated to a beautiful, new, more spacious store at No. 33 Duke of York Square. OSKA 33 Duke of York Square London Chelsea T 0207 730 8989 Mon – Sat 10 am – 7 pm Sunday 11 am – 5 pm oska-london.co.uk

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STYLE

FA S H I O N

NOTES Sassy bras, banging boots and totes amazeballs bags for spring

EDIT

OR’S

PICK

WORK IT

TOTES LOVE LEATHER

Ingenue? Ingenious! How clever that their SS14 collection features a rainforest of colours to welcome the vibrant season of spring. With graphic prints, classic wrap dresses and dazzly jumpsuits, each piece is ideal work wear for the modern gal. Any garment will turn heads at a working lunch and last through till dinner time too. Prices vary, Available from Harvest, 136 King’s Road, SW3, 020 7581 9245;

We ‘totes’ love these totes (sorry, that was awful – this is what happens when Violet’s away). The Lamb 1887 tote bags come in two sizes – mini and large – the smaller in beige or tan snake print, the large in black snake or grey ostrich print. Made from quality cow leather, lined in suede, you won’t find a smarter bag this spring, we’re ‘totes’ sure of it (enough!). £185 mini, £200 large, Available at Katie & Jo, 253 King’s Road, SW6, 020 7736 5304;

ingenuelondon.com

lamb1887.com

THE DEVIL DOESN’T WEAR THIS INGENUE

CleavAGE 130-years-old is no mean feat, so is it any wonder French lingerie label Maison Lejaby wants to celebrate it? From 31st March, pop-up shops are landing at three Rigby & Peller stores. These Parisian-style salons will display the new large cup size collection, Elixir, alongside other selected ranges. Thought we’d keep you abreast of it.Rigby & Peller, 13 King’s Road,SW3, 020 7824 1844; maisonlejaby.com/en

Every time we think about featuring florals of any sort this time of year, the words of The Devil Wears Prada character, Miranda Preistley, ring out in our ears: ‘Florals, for spring? Groundbreaking’. But we don’t care. We love this floral skirt – and we’re gonna wear it too. Antique Jacquard Midi Skirt, £45, Cardinal Place, SW1, 020 7828 6139;

topshop.com

must have

Made for WALKING If Nancy Sinatra sang ‘one of

these days these boots are gonna walk all over you’ to us, whilst wearing either of these Dukes boots, we’d reply ‘that’s quite alright Nancy, go ahead’. All designed by Daisy in the UK (whose family made the notorious cowboy boots from R. Soles) we’re stomping off to buy them pronto. £125 Multi/Tan 7 Kilim Boots, £130 Grace Chelsea Boots; dukesboots.com Violet Naylor-Leyland is away

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21/02/2014 10:57 Violet is a stylist, journalist and owner of fancy dress and vintage boutique, Violet’s Box; violetsbox.com

N U -L I N E K I T C H E N

S T U D I O

w w w. n u - l i n e . n e t

N u -L i ne Ki t c h e n S tu d io : 12- 14 Malto n rd L o n d o n W10 5U P 0 2 0 8206 5170 w w w.nu - lin e.n et

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ABSOLUTELY PROMOTION

everyone needs

MORESPACE THINKING OF CONVERTING YOUR BASEMENT? YOU’RE IN SAFE HANDS WITH THE EXPERTS AT MORESPACE

aving our basement converted was something we had been thinking about for quite a while, so when a friend of ours showed us the MoreSpace Basements™ advert – “Need more room to run around in?” – ‘it was exactly what we needed for our growing family, so we gave them a call. From the start they were up-front and honest and gave us a fixed quote and a realistic time frame. Several months later we have a fantastic new space that has completely met the brief and changed the way we can use our home.’ So said Richard and Anne Faulkner from Kew after agreeing to meet me over a coffee on a cold February morning in West London. ‘Many of our preconceived ideas of basements were completely wrong and we now have a dry, light, spacious living space, including my much wanted separate utility room!’ Adds Anne. I had been asked to write an article about MoreSpace Basements™ and to find information about the owner, the company’s past, present and future services that are being offered London wide in a new and exciting expansion of the MoreSpace brand and they had agreed to answer my questions regarding the project and their experience of MoreSpace. Richard says: ‘One of our biggest concerns was keeping the peace with our neighbours and through

the MoreSpace team all our neighbours were well informed and actually quite interested in seeing the progress. Their overall manner and the service provided was brilliant, not to mention that the crew have done a fabulous job. We received a competitive price and a great quality basement (some of the other companies we had in to quote were horrendously expensive!) and we couldn’t be happier with the result.’ Originally formed as LoftRooms in 1966 and under the same family management spanning three generations, MoreSpace has taken the very best of its innovative business model and applied it

successfully to basement development. ‘We have been carrying out basement excavations in tandem with our extension and loft conversion works for several years now and we decided it was time to bring this to the wider public and set up MoreSpace Basements™ within the LoftRooms Group in order to bring focus to this important aspect of our business,’ states Adrian Newman, Managing Director of MoreSpace. ‘The decision to combine the MoreSpace reputation for quality with the highly skilled technical aspects of basement works has resulted in a high demand for the services of MoreSpace Basements™’, reports James Quinn, Sales Director. ‘We are seeing an increase in positive enquiries and sales in areas of London not traditionally associated with this work, we believe our fixed costs and transparency are a refreshing change in what was a niche market. We facilitate a family’s longterm investment with excellent cost to value returns, this work also provides stability for growing families of young professionals all over London.’ MoreSpace Basements™ provide a turn-key solution for busy clients from concept design to completion. With excellent relationships with Planning

We couldn’t be happier with the results officers across the London Boroughs, they can provide detailed expert guidance for basement applications. James Quinn reports: ‘The councils across London have recently adopted new planning policies that will help to improve all future basement planning applications and we welcome this very much. It reflects the need for responsible contracting and using a reputable contractor, we know that we fit that requirement.’

For a free non-obligation quotation please contact the office on 0208 896 0777 or email james@ineedmorespace.co.uk

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21/02/2014 14:51

X U TA the cloth co.

hand spun handwoven naturally dyed www.thexuta.com

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STYLE

Like Mother, Like Daughter 1

01 GRAFF, THE GEMINI YELLOWS, FANCY INTENSE YELLOW DIAMONDS, poa; graffdiamonds.com 02 ASPINAL OF LONDON, ATHENA CUFF BRACELET IN FIRE PYTHON, £89; aspinaloflondon.com 03 BOODLES, PAPILLON BUTTERFLY EARRINGS WITH PINK AND WHITE DIAMONDS SET IN 18CT ROSE GOLD AND PLATINUM, POA; boodles.com 04 KIKI MCDONOUGH, ETERNAL FIRE OPAL AND GEMSTONE NECKLACE, £2,700; kiki.co.uk 05 CARTIER, SANTOS-DUMONT WATCH, PINK GOLD AND DIAMONDS, ALLIGATOR STRAP, £21,900; cartier.co.uk 06 TIFFANY & CO., SPARKLERS AMETHYST RING IN 18CT ROSE GOLD WITH DIAMONDS, £1,150; tiffany.co.uk 07 TESSA PACKARD, CONCUBINE’S EARRINGS, 18CT YELLOW GOLD AND CARVED KYANITE EARRINGS WITH PAVE SET BLACK DIAMONDS AND SUSPENDED TOURMALINE TRILLIONS, £10,000; tessapackard.com 08 CASSANDRA GOAD, ST. XENIA OF ST. PETERSBURG LARGE GOLD CROSS ON FINE GOLD CHAIN WITH PEARLS, £690; cassandragoad.com

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21/02/2014 10:57

babes in the

WOOD COME OUT OF HIBERNATION WITH THIS SEASON’S PRETTIEST FLORAL FINDS

Photography Ian Harrison

Styling

Lynda Bell

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20/02/2014 15:43

RED TARTAN COTTON SKIRT, NEW LOOK FLORAL SILK PRINTED TOP, CLEMENTS RIBEIRO BEADED STRAPPY SANDALS, DUNE BLACK LEATHER GLOVES, ZARA ENAMEL AND GOLD PLATED DROP EARRINGS, CH CAROLINA HERRERA

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PINK JERSEY PRINTED DRESS, MARY KATRANTZOU @ MATCHES CREAM MOHAIR SWEATER, BY MALENE BIRGER ROCK CRYSTAL AND GOLD CHAIN NECKLACE, CH CAROLINA HERRERA SILVER DOUBLE HOOP EARRINGS AND SILVER FEATHER THREAD BRACELET, BOTH BY CAROLINA BUCCI

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CREAM SILK FLORAL PRINT DRESS, EMILIA WICKSTEAD @ MATCHES RED FOX FUR STOLE, AMANDA WAKELEY

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BLUE SILK PRINTED DRESS WITH VELVET RIBBON BELT, RED VALENTINO @ MYWARDROBE.COM GREY FUR SNOOD, AMANDA WAKELEY SILVER CRYSTAL CHAIN BRACELET AND DROP EARRINGS, BOTH CH CAROLINA HERRERA BLACK ZIP UP SHOE-BOOTS, DUNE

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GOLD WOOL COAT WITH FAUX FUR COLLAR, PAUL SMITH BLACK VISCOSE CRYSTAL EMBELLISHED TOP, BA&SH RED AND BLUE SILK RUFFLE HEM SKIRT, PETER SOM @ AVENUE32.COM BLACK LEATHER BOOTS, CH CAROLINA HERRERA SILVER DOUBLE HOOP EARRINGS AND SILVER FEATHER THREAD BRACELET, BOTH BY CAROLINA BUCCI

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20/02/2014 15:44

For Luxury Lingerie Lovers

10% off all collections for Image by Fleur of England Resident readers * * Offer ends 31st October

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ABSOLUTELY PROMOTION

MUMMY COOL Calling all mummies!

IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN JOINING AN EXCLUSIVE ONLINE PRIVATE MEMBERS CLUB, CATERED SPECIFICALLY FOR STYLISH, BUSY PARENTS, LOOK NO FURTHER…

et us introduce Knightsbridge Village, the online private members’ club created exclusively for parents living in Knightsbridge, Kensington, Chelsea and surrounding areas. Simply, a collaborative community of local parents brought together to foster knowledgesharing and peer support, entrée to the club is by invitation only.

So where did it all start? Founder Nana Coles is a typical Knightsbridge Village ‘resident’. The cosmopolitan mother of two quit a successful City career to launch a club for like-minded parents who simply cannot relate to the numerous ‘free to join’ parent clubs and websites available. Exclusive, upmarket and unashamedly selective, Knightsbridge Village is proving popular

with the neighbourhood’s mothers, present and expectant. Knightsbridge Village partners with an elite list of shops and restaurants to provide members with fabulous benefits. All receive a membership card entitling them to fi xed discounts from the likes of Pure Baby, Marie Chantal, Daphne’s, Beaufort House and Caramel Baby & Child, to name a few. The club’s engaging website offers The Café, a lively private forum where discerning mums connect to share insider knowledge and advice on anything from prep school assessments and recommended nurseries, to the best personal trainers and family holidays. The Library delivers blogs by an expert team including Matt Roberts Personal Training and Jena Quinn of Nicky Haslam Design. All this plus invitations to events, free use of online shop dubbed ‘upmarket eBay’, and a helpful Little Black Book with recommended local services. If there’s a reason not to join, we can’t think of it.

Our readers are invited to join online with this keycode: ABS2014. Membership is £10 per month. Visit knightsbridge-village.com

Hair of theBird 30%off

all colour services when quoting ‘Absolutely’

We are pleased to introduce you to our new fresh, friendly, forward thinking Hair salon, Beautiful blow drys, exquisite cuts and gorgeous signature colours using the latest products and techniques from L’Oreal professionnel. Indulge in some me time and feel pampered and relaxed.With scenic views of Eel brook visit us today for a tailor made experience.

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STYLE

st muave h

7 2

6 or’s e d it c k pi

Now thats

GRAPHIC RAPHIC

Pop culture and prints, straight from the catwalk

01 MAJE, STARS DAVID BOWIE-PRINT COTTON TANK, £100; net-a-porter.com 02 TOPSHOP, FOLK TILE TEXTURED TEE, £24; topshop.com 03 ADIDAS, WOMEN’S CENTENIA HI SHOES, WOMEN ORIGINALS, £65; adidas.co.uk 04 MARY KATRANTZOU, SUDDENLY ARCHITECTURE PRINT FLARED COTTON DRESS, £1,230; harveynichols.com 05 AUSTIQUE, BROCADE SHORTS BLACK & WHITE, £260; austique.co.uk 06 DIANE VON FURSTENBERG, BENETT GEOMETRIC PRINT SILK TROUSERS, £270; harveynichols.com 07 MIH, THE BREATHLESS JEAN BROKEN WASH, £185; austique.co.uk 08 ANYA HINDMARCH, COURTNEY STAR CRUISER PRINTED SATIN CLUTCH, £395; net-a-porter.com

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20/02/2014 14:15

Mother

knows b e st MUCH-LOVED Chelsea RESIDENTS SHARE THEIR FAVOURITE TIPS AND ADVICE FROM MUM AHEAD OF Mothering Sunday

Tom Aikens Chef

My Mother’s Tips

1 Always try to be polite and well behaved, as best you can 2 Never swear*

Tom’s Kitchen, 27 Cale Street, SW3, 020 7349 0202; tomskitchen.co.uk/chelsea

▼

I most likely broke all of those rules at a very * early age. She also said to make sure that you are happy inside and I can say that I definitely am. With two beautiful daughters what more can a man want? The worst thing for my mother, when I was growing up, was dealing with twins. [My twin brother Robert and I] were the worst behaved kids in class (all the time) and that was down to us egging each other on. From chopping all of our neighbours prized daffodils heads off at five in the morning, to chopping a huge hole in our father’s brand new fence with saws and hammers, when we were six, so we could watch the diggers building a new motorway. Letting off stink bombs in school was a favourite and throwing rotten apples from our fruit trees at cyclists – we did it all and were very naughty.

Victoria Stapleton Founder of Brora

remember my mother spending hours and days scrapbooking photos, newspaper cuttings and other memorabilia. I own those books today and they are leafed through regularly by my children; a visual diary of days gone by. Of course my intention was to do the same but somehow it never really happened – I wonder why that was?!

Brora, 344 King’s Road, SW3, 020 7352 3697; brora.com

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20/02/2014 14:17

ART&CULTURE

CAROLINE CHARLES ▲ Desig ner Mother’s Code For Life

1 Dress suitably 2 Read the papers 3 Be informed 4 Be amusing 5 Dance well 6 Never mention money 7 Change the buttons on an economy buy ▼

Caroline Charles, 56-57 Beauchamp Place, SW3, 020 7589 5850; carolinecharles.com

Theo Fennell Jeweller

y mother’s best piece of advice was: ‘Never go on a boat unless it has at least three funnels’ and ‘You will never amount to anything if you don’t do anything seriously.’

▼

Tina Lake Founder of

London Boutiques ▼

PIPPA SMALL Jeweller

y mother was the coolest woman I knew – she died a few years ago and I miss her every day. She had a dry sense of humour and was courageous and adventurous. Taking my siblings and I around the world, she always made me aware of how lucky we were and to think of others. She gave me a social conscience, and was insistent on good education for girls. She was a big believer in being an individual. She never ‘conformed’ and encouraged us to be who we wanted and not who we felt we ‘should’ be.

Pippa Small jewellery available from Felt, 13 Cale Street, SW3, 020 7349 8829; pippasmall.com

Theo Fennell, 169 Fulham Road, SW3, 020 7591 5000; theofennell.com

hen I was younger, I wish I’d been kinder to my mother. She had four children and I am a twin. My brother and I were always fighting and causing havoc, we were known as ‘the terrible twins’. Now having only one daughter, I can’t imagine how hard four children must have been. Motherhood is the hardest, most rewarding career out there – anyone who does it as a full time job gets complete admiration from me! london-boutiques.com

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20/02/2014 14:17

Absolutely Readers

FREE

Orthodontic Consultation worth ÂŁ125 for every reader

T: 020 773 11077

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Bringing smiles all across London Everyone deserves a beautiful smile no matter how young - or young at heart you are. Treating yourself to a brand new smile doesn’t have to involve discomfort or hard work. In fact all you have to do is visit the professionals at the stylish clinic rooms of Metamorphosis Orthodontics. A fi rm favourite amongst London school children and parents alike, the expert team at this family friendly clinic are highly skilled in fitting a range of modern cosmetic braces, including Damon braces, a new generation of fast, fixed, ‘self-ligating’ braces, Invisalign clear braces, which are removable, and lingual braces, which are placed behind the teeth, making them a popular choice with those in the public eye. Whichever type of brace you choose, you can be confi dent that you’ll be left with a spanking-new smile and a fresher look.

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19/02/2014 15:18

MAKE-UP WITH YOUR MUM THIS MARCH Enjoy the perfect Mother-Daughter day out with a make-up masterclass for two people for only £100 at The Peak this March. Using Daniel Sandler’s award-winning make-up range, you can experiment with a new look or perfect your look before a night out celebrating your mother.

Revive tired muscles or refresh your look with a visit to The Peak Health Club & Spa, Knightsbridge. Select from a range of massages and facials, beauty treatments, or specialist services such as physiotherapy, osteopathy and acupuncture to help you look and feel your best. For more information, call 020 7858 7300 or visit peakhealthclub.com The Peak Health Club & Spa, Cadogan Place, Knightsbridge SW1X 9PY

14-02-12, Absolutely Chelsea - March issue.indd 1

12/02/2014 17:24:27

It’s all about you… fit8 puts you at the centre of everything we do, offering a

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20/02/2014 12:47

20/02/2014 17:46

HEALTH&BEAUTY

TOM thumb Nude tones are everywhere this season and we’re glad of it. Natural beauty is always the way forward. However, there are times when we need a teensy bit of help and the new Tom Ford Spring 2014 collection (for nails and lips) is where to go for it. Lip Color Sheen, In The Buff (£36) and Nail Lacquer, Sugar Dune (£26) . 201-202 Sloane Street, SW1, 020 3141 7800; tomford.com

FOLLOW THE RULES

BE AUT Y

CONFIDENTIAL Protect, pamper & love your body

Weight loss expert, Louise Parker, finds motivation in rediscovering the wheel A good friend of mine is a keen cyclist (I prefer ‘cycling geek’). Come rain, wind or shine he’ll be out for hours, and then spend equally long, taking his bike apart, cleaning it and putting it back together again. Whilst I personally can think of better ways to spend my time, I have total respect for how he follows his passion. He recently introduced me to a book called The Rules. As a non-cyclist, I would have said that the chances of getting me to read 275 pages on cycling were slim at best. But it is a refreshing insight into choosing mind over matter to achieve your ultimate, and sums up to a tee, my approach and attitude to weight loss. The book is honest and absolutely clinical, two things you need to be if you are serious about making a positive change to your weight. So next time you see one of the Velominati whizzing by, nod out of respect and ask yourself if you’ve stuck to the rules. Because, one thing is for sure, they have. The Rules is a book of genius. Buy it, read it and re-read it. I challenge you not to feel motivated.

LIFE

saver

▲ Support Breast Cancer Care with Crabtree & Evelyn this month. From selected products sold in the Rosewater and Pomegranate, Argan & Grapeseed hand care Collections, £1 will go direct to the charity. Moisturisers are ideal for Mother’s Day – and the charity link might remind Mum to do her monthly breast check too.

Prices vary, 151 Regent Street, 020 7734 6043; crabtree-evelyn.co.uk

must have

louiseparker.uk.com

FITNESS REVIEW

Bootcamp Pilates here's a reason why, underneath ‘Intermediate Classes’ on the website, appear the words: Not for beginners. Why I thought I could bypass the 3-4 beginner sessions and go straight to hard core, I’ve no idea. Bootcamp Pilates is like nothing I’ve ever experienced. Many exercises require you to lie on a machine called The Reformer, a platform that slides to and fro attached to springs of various strengths. You push yourself off from the headboard at the bottom, doing jumps and splits ‘mid air’ on your back, before the carriage is pulled back towards the base. Strenuous stretches are involved, and weight lifting too, both of which make you sweat – a lot. You go home, exhausted, and eat ten times more than you would usually for fear you might collapse. The next day is spent in an all-body ache-wrap, panicking you’ll never feel normal again. And then a horrible thought occurs: If I let myself get properly fat, I’ll have to do this all the time. I’m booking myself a second session – in beginners. By Edwina Langley

Marvic House, 30 Bishop's Road, SW6, 020 7871 2777; bootcamppilates.com

3 of the best

BATH OILS 2 1

1 Burt’s Bees Lemon & Vitamin E, £9.99; burtsbees.co.uk 2 Penhaligons Bluebell Bath Oil, £39; penhaligons.com 3 Jo Malone, Pomegranate Noir Bath Oil, £52; jomalone.co.uk

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SPOSE DI GIO.indd 2

21/02/2014 17:27

STYLE

LOCO FOR COCO Joanna Norman, PROFESSOR OF FRAGRANCE AT Chanel, TELLS US HER PERFUME PREFERENCES

CHANEL NO. 5 IS SO POPULAR BECAUSE … The fragrance has this amazing lift, which takes you out of the ordinary and into an intimate space. It’s hard to describe – it’s not a flower, nor a particular place. The aldehydes (synthetic notes in the formula) work with the natural creamy rose and jasmine heart in the same way bubbles react in Champagne. MY TOP FRAGRANCE INSPIRATIONS ARE … No. 5 by Chanel, Paris by YSL and Coromandel by Chanel. I was a floral girl and was then bowled over by the dark richness of resins and incense in Coromandel. I WEAR… . No. 5 body cream. Most working days I have to keep my skin fragrance free in order to trial new products without interference. So I wear the No. 5 body cream which has become part of my skin. On weekends, I treat myself with the Le Parfum. THE MOST FAMILIAR SMELL IN THE WORLD TO ME IS… It has to be No. 5 which reminds me of my mother – I did have a period of about 10 years when I wore Paris, a more violet-y

rose, but I came back. The other smell which is hugely familiar, is bergamot – a beautiful citrus note used widely in perfumery which reminds me of my early morning cuppa Earl Grey! DO FRAGRANCES SUIT DIFFERENT CHARACTERS? There has been an increasing amount of research profiling, known as ‘aroma science’ which matches fragrance families with different personalities and cultures. However, we tend to be increasingly multi-faceted in our personality and lives. Women, in particular, play so many roles – mother, career woman, sportswoman, lover – that we often find a fragrance to match our

mood. A good example would be the outdoor, summery freshness of Cristalle vs. the seductive, confident, oriental Coco. A PERSON’S SCENT SAYS ‘WHAT’ ABOUT THEM? It’s their personal identity, the invisible code, which explains whether they are introvert or extravert, shy or bold, loyal or fickle, romantic or carefree. People can be completely loyal to their signature fragrance or have a wardrobe of scents to match their mood or season. CHAN E L 167-170 Sloane Street, SW1, 020 7235 6631; chanel.com

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STYLE

NARS, SOULSHINE BLUSH PALETTE, £35; narscosmetics.co.uk CHANEL, OMBRES CONTRASTE DUO EYESHADOW IN MISTY-SOFT, £31; chanel.com PENHALIGONS, ARTEMISA SOAP, 3X100G, £23; penhaligons.com

mus havet

CLARINS, EAU DYNAMISANTE FRAGRANCED GENTLE DEODORANT, £18.50; clarins.co.uk L’OCCITANE, MUM & BABY HYDRATING LOTION, £22; uk.loccitane.com

R’S O T I ED CK

CRÈME DE LA MER, LIFTING CONTOUR SERUM, £230; cremedelamer.co.uk

JO MALONE, ENGLISH PEAR & FRESSIA BODY & HAND WASH, £32; jomalone.co.uk

MAC, NAIL LACQUER IN MIDNIGHT TRYST, £11; maccosmetics.co.uk

mum’s

the word

Treat your Mummy to something special this Mother’s Day

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

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23/09/2013 12:59

L I T E R A RY G o

A L S

FROM PITCH TO PEN, Edwina Langley FINDS OUT WHY WORLD CLASS FOOTBALLER Frank Lampard HAS TURNED HIS HAND TO CHILDREN’S LITERATURE

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21/02/2014 12:20

t’s not often you find yourself sitting by the phone, furiously biting your nails, waiting for Britain’s top footballer to call you. It was one of those surreal moments in life where you stare up at the ceiling and ask yourself, ‘How did this happen?’ Surrounded by scribbled notes, autobiographies, football cuttings stained with splatters of instant coffee, I felt like I was on set for a budget remake of Footballer’s Wives; a sports-writer’s version called ‘Footballer’s Scribes’. Ironically, that wasn’t too far left field. For the footballer I was about to speak to wasn’t just one of the best England midfielders of all time, nor just Chelsea FC’s top goal scorer ever, nor just vice captain of the team that, at the time of writing, topped the Premier League. He was also a writer himself – of children’s literature. Not quite what people expect when they hear the name ‘Frank Lampard’. ‘It’s been such a long thoughtout idea – five or six years I’d been thinking about it,’ he tells me earnestly when I ask how he came up with the idea for his book series, Frankie’s Magic Football. ‘I had a book with me when I travelled away (we’re always on the road) and each time an idea came into my head, I’d jot it down and put the story together.’ Based on schoolboy Frankie, who (in the first book) wins a magic football, the series follows him and his team mates – bright spark, Louise; the goalkeeper, Charlie; Max, the dog – as they travel to exotic lands (courtesy of the ball) to compete in fantasy football games. Educational, fun and funny too (‘I bounced the books off my [daughters] in the writing process’), it’s clear why they’ve proved so popular. ‘I was partly influenced by Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom,’ Lampard admits. ‘I didn’t want it to be completely about football, as how far could that go? It’s about adventure in-between.’ To me it had echoes of Harry Potter, the clever Louise mirroring Hermione, Charlie (who never takes his gloves off ) reminding me of Ron, and the hero Frankie, saving the day à la Harry. Incidentally, Lampard

I WANTED THESE BOOKS

TO HAVE SOMETHING THAT A PARENT COULD READ & ENJOY

and JK Rowling are also represented by the same literary agents. ‘I know what you mean but, no,’ he says resolutely, when I ask if Potter was an inspiration. ‘I wanted the other characters to be interesting. With women’s football on the up, it was important to include Louise.’ Instead, he cites Roald Dahl as the biggest influence. ‘I’ve actually started to read [Dahl’s] books again as research. I’m amazed by the detail that I didn’t realise as a kid.’ We discuss the importance of making children’s books as interesting for adults as the kids that read them. After all, it’s longsuffering parents who have to sit through them time and time again. Lampard seems genuinely touched when I mention I had found the books entertaining. ‘I’m so glad you said that, because, being a Dad [...]

I wanted to do something that’s not just for kids. I’ll be honest, some books [I read] with my children bore me. They’re very ‘kiddy’ and I wanted these books to have something that a parent could read and enjoy. So I’m pleased you said that. And I’m glad that’s how they’re coming across.’ Frank Lampard was born in Romford in 1978 to former West Ham United footballer, Frank Lampard, Snr. and his wife, Pat. Nephew to current QPR Manager (and former footballer) Harry Redknapp, and cousin to Harry’s son, Jamie (Redknapp, the retired England footballer), it’s fair to say that Lampard has lived and breathed football since birth. He attended Brentwood, an independent school in Essex, where he excelled academically, achieving 11 GCSEs, with an A* in Latin. Whilst university

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was, at one point, on the cards, in spite of the plethora of avenues he could have taken, there was never another career in his mind. ‘I was always mad on football,’ he explains. ‘Whenever I was out in the garden, [I’d be] kicking a football around. My parents were pretty strict [on] reading, and I was really lucky in that the school I went to pushed you [academically]. Not all kids get that, but I did.’ He began his career at West Ham United, joining the youth team in 1994 before signing a professional contract the following year. His father was assistant coach at the time and his uncle Harry, the manager, so naturally much was made by critics that

which to highlight. He stood in for John Terry, captaining Chelsea to victory in the 2012 UEFA Champions League Final against Bayern Munich, and in May last year, he broke Bobby Tambling’s 202 goal record to become Chelsea’s lead scorer of all time. And yet, this was the man who could have done anything. It was widely reported by Mensa that when Lampard undertook an IQ test (for research purposes) his results were some of the highest ever recorded. Lampard laughs about it and gets embarrassed when I mention his Latin A*. ‘The Latin thing is something that keeps ‘coming up’ on me. People are shocked that a footballer actually got an A*. I only know the basic verbs, I couldn’t recite any Latin to you now, I don’t know if you can?’ Put on the spot somewhat, I quickly rattle off the only Latin verb I know – ‘Mitto’ (meaning ‘to send’) which conjugates ‘mitto, mittis, mittit…’ and highlights my rather juvenile sense of humour. Lampard laughs and responds ‘amo, amas, amat – romantic!’ Valentine’s Day was fast approaching. If only… In all seriousness though, it must be difficult for Lampard to be seen as anything other than a footballer and

I DON’T KNOW WHETHER

I WANT EVERYTHING THAT’S HAPPENED IN MY LIFE TO BE OUT THERE

Lampard was reaping the rewards of nepotism. It must have been a relief, therefore, when he quit West Ham in 2001 to sign a new contract with Chelsea. I say ‘relief’, the £11 million attached to the deal must have had something to do with it. From there, Lampard’s career kicked off. He played in all Chelsea’s league matches from 2001-2, and earned himself the accolade of ‘Player of the Year’ in 2004. In 2005, such was his success he won the Silver Award for ‘FIFA World Player of the Year’ and silver for the ‘Ballon d'Or’ too, as well as ‘FWA Footballer of the Year’. In August 2008, he signed a new five-year deal with Chelsea for a cool £39.2million, making him the (then) highest-earning Premier League player. Trawling through his list of achievements, it’s actually quite challenging deciding

launching a series of children’s books was a bold move. ‘For a footballer to do it… it was something that people put a lot of pressure on. It obviously helped because of my name. And I know there’s lots of people trying to put out kids books who aren’t footballers, who probably have a more difficult route. At the same time, people can be quite cynical. And I suppose that was my biggest fear; that people would just think ‘he’s using his name to put out a few kids books that he’s not even looked at, and he might get a small royalty out of them’, but it certainly wasn’t that. I put so much time into them. And I was quite excited that there would be a few kids that would want to buy them, let alone get some use out of them.’ There’s something quite heartwarming about his passion for

the project, and with World Book Day coming up this month, Lampard is all for encouraging children’s literacy. He continues to explain his writing process, about how it takes ‘hours and hours’ and since he’s ‘not very computerized [sic]’, he can’t just ‘sit on a computer and write really quickly’. I wonder therefore, how he got on with his autobiography, which was released in 2006. ‘I didn’t write any of that,’ he says honestly. ‘That was basically a series of long, drawn out interviews, which I did when I was 26. I certainly wouldn’t have been able to [write] it then. If I were to have my time again, I wouldn’t have done it till the end of my career. It was a young decision, slightly naïve, and I wouldn’t do it now because I don’t know whether I want everything that’s happened in my life to be out there. A lot of autobiographies have come out recently and people are critical about this or that, and it makes a big splash, and I don’t think I really need [that] at the minute.’ Lampard speaks from experience. His private life has been repeatedly ‘splashed’ about, mostly in reference to his relationship with former fiancée Elen Rivas, the Spanish model with whom he has two daughters, Luna (8) and Isla (6). Currently engaged to TV presenter Christine Bleakley, it continues to hit the headlines, with speculation rife as to when the two will finally tie the knot. For those interested in the answer to that question, sorry to disappoint, but I didn’t ask. He wouldn’t tell me and actually it’s none of my business. What I do ask about, though, is a small sporting competition coming up this summer called the World Cup. I tell him outright I’m not going to bore him by asking for a quote on whether he thinks we’ll win, or whether he’ll be selected to play (obviously ‘I hope so’ would be the answer to both) so I ask instead what teams we should watch out for. ‘I would say Brazil because they are the home nation and a very powerful team, and then Spain because they are the holders [of the cup] and a fantastic team as well. And as an outside bet, Belgium.’ This latter choice piques my interest. ‘Belgium have got a fantastic squad. We’ve got Eden [Hazard] at Chelsea now and he’s doing brilliantly. If you provide a team that have got players that are playing really well... I think if you are going to choose, other than England, teams that are going to challenge, there will be a lot of teams up for it, actually.’

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Admitting I know nothing about football and that I’d recruited help with this part of my research, I ask what it is like to have José Mourinho (me: ‘does that make sense?’) back managing Chelsea. ‘Yep, that makes complete sense!’ he laughs. ‘It means a lot to me. He’s been a real influence on me and my career. Him coming back was great because we know each other very well and what he did for me then [as Chelsea manager from 2004-7] still relates, now I’m at the other end of my career.’ Hopefully that’s satisfied the thirst of all footie fans reading this, but for my own interest, I simply have to find out something that’s always bothered me. What do players do during the half time of a particularly harrowing game – eat oranges? Crap themselves? ‘You’re guided by the manager,’ Lampard responds. ‘Certain managers have different techniques and will let players talk amongst themselves, maybe argue. Other managers are very dominant and want you to sit down and they set the tone. It’s a funny one, really. I’m quite calm. I’m not really a ‘shouting, swearing’ kind of person. If I think I’m having a bad game, I’ll have a big word with myself. But if I’m content with what I’m doing, then I’ll just carry on. I like to try to keep a cool head.’ And he does have a cool head, one that is often recognised as he wanders the streets of Chelsea, his home district. I tell him how, a few weeks prior, I’d been in a salon on Brompton Road and someone had shouted that Lampard was outside. The entire of HARIs had swooped to the window to gawp at him. ‘I wouldn‘t say ‘bothered’, that’s not the way I’d say it. I won’t get bothered [in the future], I’ll just be that ‘exfootballer’ from many moons ago,’ he chuckles. ‘I’m quite pleased that

that’s the way it is. When I came here nobody knew me. And I suppose it’s testament to how football’s gone for me personally. Chelsea fans are people who like football and they’re nice so I can’t moan too much! ‘I actually love Chelsea,’ he continues. ‘I’d like it to be my home for evermore. When I moved over from Essex, Chelsea was like the other side of the world for me. But since I’ve been here for 13 years now, I just love it. I love the diversity of it. I love that you can walk everywhere; we hardly ever drive when we go for

but I’ve got different ideas. I’ve got the books on the side, and I’d like to do more of them. It’s something I’m giving back.’ He can’t just finish with football, can he? What about managing? ‘I’m not completely sure. I’ll take a view on it when I come to the end of my career. I turned professional at 17 and it’d be nice to get time off, especially at Christmas. I wouldn’t mind having a different kind of lifestyle for a while. But then I say that, and maybe in a few years I’ll feel differently. That’s [just] where I am at the minute.’ I’d read in his autobiography that when growing up his father insisted he do his daily exercises in spike boots. It seems a good way of tying up our chat, leading him back to where it all began. ‘I did [spikes] until I was about 25, and it was a huge thing for me. To talk to young kids now about football, I would say you have to work on your weaknesses. My dad was always on at me about my speed because he, as a footballer, was never that fast. It was quite a big deal for me wearing spikes because when

I’M REALLY ENJOYING MY FOOTBALL,

SO I’M HOPING TO GO ON FOR ANOTHER TWO OR THREE YEARS AT LEAST

dinner on the Fulham or King’s Road. I love the little pubs round the back streets. And I love Fulham as well – Fulham’s great.’ So I suppose when retirement finally arrives, he’s got a cosy life in Chelsea to look forward to. It feels odd asking him about it though, he signed a year-long extension on his Chelsea contract last May and he is, after all, only 35... ‘As a footballer it’s quite a pivotal time in your life. It’s all going to end between 35 and 40, and that’s only if you’re really good, like Ryan Giggs. I’m quite comfortable with it. I’m really enjoying my football, so I’m hoping to go on for another two or three years at least. And I’m enjoying the extra appreciation you get as you get older. You understand the end is coming so you appreciate it even more. Some footballers don’t know what they want to do after football,

I was a kid no one else was wearing them, and they used to take the mickey out of me.’ I’d say he’s had the last laugh. ‘Well, I’d like to think so!’ he responds. ‘That’d probably be my message to kids: whatever it is, even if it’s embarrassing, if you need to work on something you’re a bit useless at, do it. Because you’ll get the benefits at the end.’ Sound advice, from a sound individual. I think we could all do with taking a leaf out of Frank Lampard’s book – though, to preserve his tales for future young readers, not literally.

Frankie’s Magic Football Frankie vs the Mummy’s Menace by Frank Lampard (Little Brown) frankiesmagicfootball.co.uk World Book Day, 6th March; worldbookday.com

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MEN ONLY

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We love a good stiffie

It’s a great name, but what exactly is it? The obvious aside [tee-hee, a stiffie is a metal collar stiffener, which is attached to your shirt collar by magnets. Conceived by Fulham-based Nick SydneySmith and Jamie Ritchie, who struggled to keep their working uniform sharp once ties were ‘retired’, Stiffies ensure an upright collar for all day long smartness and are especially good for those chaps ‘wot’ hate to iron. So all of us basically.

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Men’s Review

DRAKES OF LONDON Fulham

o me a haircut is like dry cleaning: A necessary evil that should be done as infrequently and inexpensively as possible. It is against this backdrop of £10 horror shows that I visited Fulham’s gentleman’s barber and grooming salon Drakes of London to see what they could make of my messy foliage. After using Wahanda, the hassle-free online appointment booking system, and enjoying a complementary beer in their relaxing waiting room, one of their engaging barbers succeeded where so many had failed, and gave me a genuinely good haircut. The place has a nice, masculine feel to it, without testosterone being forced down your throat, while the staff are very good at what they do. Whether you are after a full facial grooming (also available) or just a humble haircut, even this grooming Scrooge had to admit that Drakes is a snip. By Harry Harland

st mu ve a h

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STYLE DANCE Ballet. Natalia Kremen (recent star of Mr Selfridge) runs her own ballet school, dedicated to providing top class training to children and adults alike. Now, where are those pointes…? Natalia Kremen Ballet School, 020 7993 1102; nkballetschool.com

Phonics. ‘Educate with Iona’ is a workshop that equips parents with the knowledge of how to support their child’s early phonological education. All run by Iona Hewitt, the Kensington & Chelsea teacher with over nine years experience. £50 per workshop, 07785 996 461; admin@educatewithiona.com

PLAY

Pilot. A nostalgic gem. Real Flying Bi-Planes are a breeze to assemble and provide hours of imaginative fun. And at this price, you’ll find entertaining the kids has never been so easy. £5.99, Available from Trotters, 34 King’s Road, SW3, 020 7259 9620; trotters.co.uk

Kids NOTES O OTES

What to read, buy & do with the little ones ’S EDITOR

PICK

READ

Anything! It’s World Book Day on 6th March and our advice is READ! We suggest this delightful and charming book in particular. £6.99, Available from Waterstones, 152 King’s Road, SW3, 0843 290 8423; waterstones.com

WHEEL

Period Toy Doll’s Wickerwork Pram. This one is just too sweet for words. We remember how important our dolls were, if only they’d had such smart mobile bedding. £150, Chelsea Toys, 53 Godfrey Street, SW3, 020 7352 1718; chelseatoys.co.uk

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EDUCATION

BY ANY MEANS…

A RECENT SURVEY HAS REVEALED THE LENGTHS SOME professional parents WILL GO TO TO GET THEIR CHILDREN INTO THE SCHOOL OF THEIR CHOICE. Amanda Constance INVESTIGATES

ILLUSTRATION BY PHIL COUZENS

eet Martha. She’s busy organizing Sunday school for her local church, where she’s a ‘key helper’. Then she’s got to get Alfie to his Mandarin lesson, while her other son, Arthur, has his weekly jiu-jitsu class after that. James, her other half, is busy at home cooking meals for the homeless – more church points in the bag, thanks very much. Life’s tricky at the moment. They are desperately trying to buy a house in the catchment area for St Mungo’s but property is just so expensive; it’s all sealed bids, even for derelict houses, or so it seems to her. Then again, they’re using her mum’s home address as back-up, so they should be OK. Martha was educated privately, of course, as was James, but there’s no money in publishing these days, is there? Really, it’s enough to make you move to Kent… Martha is fictitious but hers is a familiar story for any professional London parent. Indeed, a recent report from education charity The Sutton Trust has revealed just how far some wealthier parents will go to get their children into the most-sought after state schools.

The survey, entitled ‘Parent Power?’, focuses on the upper-middle classes. It reveals that a third of professional parents sought out a good school when moving house, with 18% choosing the catchment area of a specific school. This is hardly news for any Londoner, where catchment boundaries are poured over, Zoopla is updated by the minute, and aggressive gazumping near good schools is the norm. I know of one family who rented opposite fter almost 50 years of single-sex education, Cranmore School has announced that it will expand to educate girls up to the age of seven from September 2014. Having received an ‘outstanding’ rating in the latest inspection, the school’s headmaster Michael Connolly comments, ‘The introduction of co-education in our nursery has been a tremendous success and there has been considerable demand for us to extend this so that girls can benefit from the exceptional opportunities which are currently enjoyed by the boys.’ Next Open Days: 28th February & 1st March; cranmoreprep.co.uk

the school gates of a desirable North London primary (at great cost) because the catchment area had shrunk to a radius of just 300 metres. Another family, in Camden, rented an additional property on their own street to get into a catchment area, moving back into their own home when their child had secured a place. The research, led by academics at King’s College London and London Metropolitan University, and based on interviews with 1,173 parents across England with schoolage children, lays bare some of the more underhand tactics the sharp-elbowed set will use to cheat the system. An astonishing 5% of upper-middle class parents admitted to buying a second home, then using that address to gain access to a specific school, while 6% of professionals illegally used a relative’s address for the same purpose. One in ten confessed to feigning religious beliefs to get into a desirable church school. And nearly one in five wealthier families employed a private tutor specifically to prepare their child for a school entrance exam – almost four times the rate of other parents. While there’s no denying that some of these methods are extremely pushy at best or plain immoral at worst, is it really so bad to do the very best for your child? David Cameron has, after all, pointedly refused to denounce pushy parents but then, he’s in no position to; his kids are at St Mary’s Abbots in Kensington, the Holy Grail of church primary schools for many professional London parents. The Sutton Trust report’s authors, however, are less equable. One of them, Professor Becky Francis, says: ‘Our research shows just how far equality of opportunity is being undermined by the greater purchasing power of some parents. The ability for some parents but not others to use financial resources to secure their children’s achievement poses real impediments for social mobility.’ The report recommends the expansion of lottery-style entry rules to break the middle-class stranglehold on places, as well as monitoring the social background of pupils to help create a more balanced intake. It also advocates means-tested vouchers to enable poorer families to pay for extra-curricular activities. None of which would be popular with the overstretched professionals who often go to legitimate, if extreme, lengths to make sure their children get into good schools. As Nick Faith, from the Policy Exchange think tank, says: ‘It’s not right to stigmatise parents for trying to do the best by their children. Instead of making scapegoats of people who are simply attempting to improve the life chances of their kids, the focus should be on driving up the quality of teaching in the poorest areas.’ The Marthas of this world would surely agree with that.

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PAUL DAY EXHIBITION 26TH MARCH – 19TH APRIL 2014

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lus One Gallery artist Paul Day has spent over 20 years developing a highly personal approach to figurative sculpture, with a particular emphasis on representing ‘the figure in architectural space’ using high-relief – an art form that combines drawn composition and fully rounded sculpture. Over the years, he has developed a form of art that is singularly difficult to categorise, in terms of contemporary artistic idioms. His high relief sculptures in terracotta, resin and bronze have been exhibited widely in Europe, and are appreciated not least for their uniquely personal

approach to perspective, as seen in Brussels, An Urban Comedy, a 25-metre long terracotta frieze in the Royal Galleries of Saint-Hubert in Brussels. His exhibitions attract considerable interest from both the public and media alike. This is the appeal of an artist who is unquestionably ‘of his time’ and whose world links up with a long-standing tradition, which is rare. Day has the themes of urbanity and the City at the heart of his artistic practice and, in order to represent them, has elaborated a perspective of subjectivity. Since his first solo show in Paris in 1995, Paul Day has undertaken many commissions and exhibitions in Europe, the United States and Canada. It was in 2001 that Paul Day was chosen to create a monument to the Battle of Britain, the completed work which sits on the Victoria Embankment. This was the first public monument to be sited in his home country. Since then other monuments in London have followed, notably The Meeting Place in St. Pancras International Station (a 9-metre tall sculpture) and The Queen Mother Memorial on the Mall. Day’s pieces can be found in various important collections, including but not limited to Buckingham Palace, The Palace of Westminster, the Fine Art Museum of Houston, USA,

Arizona State University Museum, USA, The Gardiner Museum of Ceramics, Toronto, Brussels Regional Parliament and Mannheimer Versicherung, Germany. There is a permanent Paul Day exhibition in Musee des Beaux Arts, Beaune, France. Paul Day lives and works in France and is represented by Plus One Gallery. The exhibition runs from 26th March - 19th April. Plus One Gallery, 89-91 Pimlico Road, SW1, 020 7730 7656; info@plusonegallery.com plusonegallery.com facebook.com/plusonegallery Clockwise from above: I-people (woman), 63 x 50 x 28 cm, White coloured bronze, POA; Station Lovers, 51 x 110 x 28 cm, Bronze, POA; I-people (man), 63 x 50 x 28 cm, White coloured bronze, POA; The Viaduct, 55 x 105 x 30 cm, Bronze, POA.

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› PHOTOGRAPHY ©Leo Bieber

If your drawing room lacks the heritage elements it once had, make sure you restore them. Jamb’s original and repro 18th century floor, fireplaces and architectural details are great for this. POA, 159

Attain a paired-down and comfortable space by using durable oatmeal linen. The sofa cover of thick linen hangs well for a chic un-made look. £44 p/ m, 140cm wide, Upholstery Plain Weave Linen in Oatmeal by Volga Linen, Tissus d’Hélène, Chelsea Harbour Design Centre, SW10, 020 7352 9977; tissusdhelene.co.uk

x 210cm, George III carved pine and gesso chimneypiece c.1790, 95–97 Pimlico Road, SW1, 020 7730 2122, jamblimited.com

PH-lamp

Poul Henningsen created this iconic lamp design in the mid-1920s. The light is a marvel of practicality, as well as beauty, based on a logarithmic spiral achieving maximum light, minimum glare.

Bespoke sofa

muste hav

FEATURE chair

An unusual chair ‘lifts’ a space, creating intrigue. Reupholster an antique in a contemporary fabric such as this William IV Prie Dieu Chair, in chenille. £785, 88x52x61cm, William IV Prie Dieu Chair c.1835 in Rosewood, Heritage Argyle Antiques, Poole, BH14, 0752 502 5865; 1stdibs.com

Create a comfortable, elegant sofa that is proportional to your room. Ensemblier produce contemporary made-to-measure designs using traditional methods, handmade in the UK, with a fabric of your choice. Services include a free site visit within the London area. £7,800 plus fabric, 230x100cm, The Katz Sofa featuring Plain Weave Linen in Oatmeal by Volga Linen; info@ensemblierlondon.com / ensemblierlondon.com

NOMADIC rug Capture the romance of Arabian nights with this thick wool Jajim rug from Iranian nomadic tribes c.1890. The earthy tones add warmth to high ceilinged rooms. £450, 5’9 x 4’11, Appley Hoare Antiques, 9 Langton Street, SW10, 020 7351 5206; 1stdibs.com

Coffee table is Pierre Jeanneret ‘Chandigarh’ in collaboration with Le Corbusier. Side table is antique from Rose Uniacke. Lynn Chadwick sculpture on side table. Interior and styling by t.craig; tcraig.co.uk

£571, PH 4/3 Table Lamp, Chelsea Lighting Design Ltd, 23a Smith Street, SW3, 020 7824 8144; chelsealightingdesign.co.uk

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29/10/2013 09:30

The fine art of carpets

From the design to the manufacture and lastly the fitting of only the highest quality fabrics, Blenheim Carpets specialise in beautiful, bespoke rugs and carpets. A service like no other. Visit Blenheim Carpets to see their outstanding collection of 100% wool, hand loomed, wilton woven and flatweave carpets and stair runners, all made to the highest standard with only the best materials.

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19/02/2014 10:35

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20/02/2014 09:56 20/02/2014 17:52

INTERIORS

INTERIOR INSPERATIONS Sea ripples, curves and treasures from the deep, Tara Craig and Emma Storey get inspired by Edward Lear’s ‘Owl & the Pussycat’

ST. JUDE’S CUSHION

▲ Textile company St. Jude’s handpick a range of fine artists to create unique fabrics, cushion covers and wallpapers. Emily Sutton’s Deep Sea pattern, featured in Coral & Storm Blue, echoes waves and sea breeze. £34 per cover, for 45cm cushion pad; stjudesfabrics.co.uk

COLE & SON WALLPAPER

TALISMAN SOFA

▲ The curves and waves resemble French elegance in a style comfortable for modern living. Whether you choose a daring or subtle fabric, the sofa will stand out as a feature in a living room or larger bedroom. POA, 76x214x79cm, A Standard Highback French Style Berry Rose Upholstered Sofa, 190-192 Mozart Terrace, SW1, 020 7730 7800; talismanlondon.com

Glimpses of a hidden ethereal universe lie beneath the antiqued silver shimmering design. Inspired by the Baroque quarters of Hampton Court. £98 per 10m roll, ‘Kings Mirror’ Historic Royal Palaces Collection, Cole & Son Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour, SW10, 020 7376 4628; cole-and-son.com

WICK & TALLOW CANDLE

SOANE VELO LOW TABLE

▲ Powder coated brass circles overlap in a rhythmic pattern to create a fun low table. ‘Velo’, meaning ‘bicycle’ in French, is an apt name for a playful table that is also functional and dynamic. From £1,070, available in brass, polished mirror and painted finish, 410x420mm, 50-52 Pimlico Road, SW1, 020 7730 6400; soane.co.uk

▲ New British waxsmiths on the block Wick & Tallow have crafted brightly coloured candles to enhance any and every interior. The fragrances come in a range of moods from sensual blue Jasmine & Ylang Ylang to fresh green Bergamont & Basil. £35, 2 Michael Road SW6, 020 3286 3940; wickandtallow.com

London Design Week 12-14 TH MARCH

Design Centre Chelsea Harbour et inspired by a host of talks and events during the Spring Design Week at Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour. Events include a book signing with Nina Campbell and Conversations in Design with Sophie Conran and Emma Bridgewater.

Free Entry, #LDW2014. dcch.co.uk

For further interior ideas visit t.craig at: tcraig.co.uk 67

CH_Mar_Interior_Inspirations 2.indd 67

21/02/2014 11:17

CHELSEA`S LOCAL GEM

OPENING HOURS Monday to Friday 7:30am-7:30pm Saturday and Sunday 8am-8pm

Reservation - 020 7352 3660 Wifi Connection Available On Both Floors

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CHELSEA QUARTER CAFE.FINAL.indd 2

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21/02/2014 09:12

FOOD&TRAVEL Restaurant Review

Edwina Langley dons her diving suit and dips into the deep for a taste of the sea at Le Colombier

Le Colombier

hen the wind and rain is such that you require a deep sea diving suit to leave your house, it’s important to make sure that what you are leaving it for is worthy of such effort. Le Colombier sits discretely off the Fulham Road on Dovehouse Street, a stalwart bastion of French cuisine. Its white and blue colour scheme – white clothed tables, blue banquette seating – is simple and understated, perfectly suited to those that visit: Chelsea locals wanting a midweek supper from a menu I can’t imagine has changed much since its conception. When I invited my food-loving friend, ELS, to join me, she texted back almost instantly saying, ‘Oh my god, I LOVE that place’. I too remembered it as ‘rather sommin’ when I went a few years ago, so as I swam my way through Chelsea (in my diving suit*) I was confident the restaurant wasn’t going to have to work too hard to impress us.

When ELS arrived she slid down onto the banquette before eagerly explaining that one of the reasons she likes Le Colombier is because it’s not afraid to use salt. ‘Lots of salt’. She crunched into a toasted crostini selected from the breadbasket and joyfully exclaimed, ‘Mmm, salt!’ Choosing what to eat (other than the breadbasket) was difficult because the menu reads like a checklist of all your favourite things – escargot, filet de boeuf, steak tartare... ELS started off with the Seared Tuna with Oregano Dressing, which arrived delicately arranged, fully emphasising the purple slivers of fishy-flesh. The tuna was wonderfully tender, though the sea of soy it came swimming in was rather too salty for me, in spite of my sea-worthy attire. By contrast my Crab Salad was a seasoned

perfectly. Yes, I found a shard of shell in my second mouthful (sacrebleu!), and yes, the swirls of mayo around the edge made me feel slightly like my diving suit was era-inappropriate and some Seventies bel-bottoms might have sufficed, but that aside, I couldn’t fault it. Next we had Roast Fillet of Lamb, and Scallops with Sesame Oil and Soy. ELS’s lamb was cooked to pinkperfection, with exquisitely ‘turned’ potatoes, and my scallops melted in the mouth, like little ocean kisses. Perhaps the spring onion headdress atop was a little greasy, but no one eats at a French restaurant for under-indulgence. Tarte Tatin with ice cream for pud was demolished by me with childish gusto and ELS’s Crepes Suzette went down equally quickly, aided by a generous glug of Grand Marnier. Three glasses of wine later (Pinot Noir pour moi, Chardonnay for ELS) and we left on a wave of seafood satisfaction, assured that (in spite of the marathon swim it had taken to get there) Le Colombier had definitely been worth its salt. *not really, but I wish I had been wearing one

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145 Dovehouse Street, SW3 020 7351 1155 le-colombier-restaurant.co.uk

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20/02/2014 14:03

THE art OF GOOD food MUCH-LOVED CHEF & RESTAURATEUR Mark Hix TALKS TO Edwina Langley ABOUT SUPPORTING YOUNG ARTISTS, A GOOD NEGRONI & WHAT HE FIRST TAUGHT Tracey Emin TO COOK

EDWINA LANGLEY You hold master classes at Hix Mayfair. What do you teach the guests? MARK HIX I mainly teach people how to carve. I do simple things like a leg of lamb on the bone – that’s the trickiest one to get right – then chicken, then a rack of pork. I explain the best way to cook them and how long for. Then we have starters, during which I teach them how to carve smoked salmon. EL It’s quite difficult isn’t it? I had gravlax the other day and they carved it beside me, giving me this massive chunk... MH Actually, the way I do it is thicker, but at more of an angle. All our visitors agree they’re never going to buy pre-sliced smoked salmon from the supermarket again, which is

rubbish! Then each of the cuts come back cooked and they take turns to carve a few slices. It works really well. We’re introducing a fish class, but I’m not sure that will be as popular. EL I’ve read you weren’t sure about cooking when you started? MH When I was at school I didn’t have a clue what I wanted to do. EL Were you always good at it? MH No, not at all! The cooking thing came about when I was working in a pub, washing up. For the first time, the boys in fifth year at school were given a choice between metal-work and domestic science. For a laugh, three of us decided to do domestic science. At the end of the year, I won the school

prize for it. But I wasn’t really bothered or interested. When I left school, they suggested I went to catering college, which I did, in Weymouth. Then I moved to London and...here I am now. EL You grew up with your grandparents, is that right? MH Yeah. When I was really young, about six, my parents divorced. My brother and I were separated. He went to live with one set of grandparents and I went to live with the other; half with my dad, half with my grandparents. My gran used to cook homely things – lambs hearts and braised pork chops. Our diet was simple, not fancy or shi shi. She cooked the old-fashioned way. She would boil a ham once a week.

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FOOD&TRAVEL EL Such a lovely thing to do – we just don’t do things like that anymore. I hear you had to kill chickens and pluck them – at school?! MH Yes, in rural science. EL Do you keep chickens now? MH No, I don’t actually. I haven’t got the space. My place in Dorset is very small. EL Other than Dorset, where do you live? MH Shoreditch. EL What is it about that area that you like? MH I’ve always lived in the east. I lived on Great Eastern Street for about ten years, I like the buildings, it’s an interesting area. That’s where I’ve met a lot of artists. When I lived on Great Eastern Street, people began buying industrial buildings and turning them into lofts and flats. Which is what I ended up doing. EL What was your kitchen like? MH My kitchens in the past have always been very practical – simple surfaces. I don’t like cabinets much, I like to see things on shelves. If you’ve got interesting kitchen bits it’s nice to display them. If you’ve got lovely copper saucepans, why not? EL So you’ve got lots of restaurants. Here (Hix Mayfair), then the one in Soho, Tramshed… MH Selfridges… EL Marks Bar… MH In Selfridges we’ve also got a very small cocktail bar in the men’s shoe shop department too.

I show younger, lesser-known artists and every year we give out an award. We have a judging panel – myself, the gallery owner, Tracey Emin and others – and the winner gets a show in the gallery. EL Word on the street is you taught Tracey Emin to cook... MH Well, she’s interested in cooking. EL Do you remember what you first taught her? MH I just suggested roasting a chicken. Whenever I go to her place now, she’s always got a roast chicken in the fridge. EL Is it already done or is it there for you to cook when you get there? MH It’s already done! But people like Tracey like the fact their work is displayed in restaurants. People pop in to see the works, people who wouldn’t normally go to a gallery. We do 200 covers a day, that’s 200 people who may not have seen that [points to a Tracey Emin installation]. EL How long do these pieces stay in your restaurants for? MH They’re mainly permanent. EL Do you suggest ideas of how the artists can fill the space? MH In my Soho restaurant, there wasn’t much wall space, so I suggested mobiles. Some of the artists had never made a mobile in their life! There are static sculptures

stuck to the ceiling, and also proper mobiles that move on the wind – like the Damian Hirst one of coffins of fish. EL Now onto boring ‘food’ questions. I heard your last supper would be lobster and chips, is that still the case? MH Yeah, probably. EL Thin or fat chips? MH Fat chips. EL That is the correct answer! MH I think coming from the seaside, I was brought up appreciating lobsters. I also fish for them as well. EL Your cupboard staples are Parmesan and olive oil. True? MH Yes, Parmesan, olive oil and botargo. EL What’s that? MH It’s dried mullet roe. You can get it in a stick to grate over pasta. It’s a delicacy in India. I make pasta tossed in butter and olive oil, and then shaved botargo on top. EL As one would use truffle, say? MH Yes, it’s got that nice, very savoury, slightly fishy flavour. If I’m at home, I can knock it up in three minutes. EL Do you eat in your restaurants? MH I eat in one of my restaurants every day, sometimes twice a day.

EL So you just go there... MH ...And have a martini… EL ...And get pissed and buy lots of shoes – perfect! Where next? MH The next project is going to be in an old tin factory on the Southbank near the Tate Modern. That should open in the summer. EL Speaking of the Tate, on to art. The first time you met Tracey Emin was in 1990 in a pub. Was your interest in art born then? MH I worked with Chris Corbin and Jeremy King at The Caprice and The Ivy [Hix was formerly chief director of Caprice Holdings] and they were big collectors. Their philosophy was to exchange work with artists quite often. I followed in their footsteps, really. The newer generation of artists have started doing a similar thing; I commission work from them in exchange for an eating tab. It’s very Parisian. EL Do people buy art from restaurants? MH I don’t sell it off the walls. But I do have a gallery underneath Tramshed – the Cock and Bull Gallery. That’s my outlet.

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FOOD&TRAVEL

RECIPE

FISH CEVICHE y knowledge of ceviche expanded considerably while on a fishing trip to Costa Rica. On a bit of a mission as far as this fashionable culinary oddity was concerned, I ordered it at three meals in a row. All three were miles apart in presentation and taste. Costa Ricans treat mahi mahi, sea bass and snapper to this form of brief pickling, but too much onion, citrus and coriander can overpower the fish. The third version worked best as we were left to add as much or as little of these powerful ingredients as we wished. The lemon and lime were diluted with soda water for a less acidic taste and I’ve based my interpretation on this. In its native South America, fish for ceviche is usually sliced. In Costa Rica, it was always cubed.

SERVES 4 250-300g fillets of sea bass or similar firm white fish, skinned, any residual bones removed, and cut into 1cm cubes, juice of 2 lemons, juice of 2 limes, 1 tbsp soda or mineral water, salt and freshly ground white pepper FOR THE GARNISH Red pepper, deseeded and finely diced, red onion, finely diced, 1 tbsp chopped fresh coriander, a little extra-virgin olive oil (optional) TO SERVE Toasted slices of bread or tortillas

Rinse the fish in cold water, drain and pat dry with kitchen paper. Mix the lemon and lime juice with the soda water, season lightly and toss the fish in the mixture. Cover with cling film and chill for 2 hours.

Make the garnish: mix together the red pepper, onion and coriander, and add a little olive oil if you wish.

Arrange the fish with the juice in individual bowls and the garnish separately to be spooned over the fish. Serve with toast or tortillas.

EL Do you cook there also? MH No, I don’t cook anymore. I run the businesses. You can’t see everything if you’re stuck in the kitchen. But I do cook at home, and I also do ‘Challenge Hix’ every Tuesday. At our weekly meeting our Head Chefs challenge me to 20 minutes of cooking. They get all seasonal ingredients out – game birds, wild mushrooms – and I randomly cook something. EL Do you surprise yourself ever – ‘how the heck did I come up with that?’ MH Sometimes, although mostly it’s quite simple. EL Onto telly, you’ve resisted it for the most part haven’t you? MH Yes. But I did Great British Menu. RECIPE FROM FISH ETC BY MARK HIX, PUBLISHED BY QUADRILLE BOOKS

EL I know. I told your PRs I was going to come dressed as your winning Main Course dish, Stargazy Pie. MH You should have done! But that’s the only time I’ve really done TV. It was just a bit of fun, a bit of a laugh. Some of the chefs took it way too seriously. So I’ve done that and BBC One’s Saturday Kitchen twice, but only to promote a book. EL You’re quite an advocate of seasonal, local produce... MH I don’t see why we should import food when we have equally, if not better, food on our doorstep. EL So you source things locally as far as possible? MH Yes that’s right, it’s always British – apart from wine [laughs]. EL But we’ve got quite good British wines, I've read. MH Yeah, there are some good ones creeping up. We use a lot of the

sparkling wines. But it’s a cliché to advocate ‘seasonal’ and ‘regional’ for me, because I’ve been doing it for years. It’s important for us to educate our farmers and growers. If you look at a lot of the fruit and vegetables available now in farmers markets, a lot of those things are there purely down to chefs serving them in restaurants. EL [Looks around at the hustle and bustle] Does it get quite busy here during weekdays at lunchtime? MH Yeah, it’ll fill up with lots of businessmen in suits. EL Well, I dressed up ‘fancy’ to come here – though admittedly not in a suit. MH [laughs] EL Do you spend a lot of time here? MH I split my time between here and Tramshed, and later on I’ll be in Soho. EL What’s your favourite cocktail? MH It depends what mood I’m in. If I’m in the Groucho club, I’ll drink espresso martinis to keep me going. But Negroni is probably my cocktail of choice – it’s quite hard core. EL I had it for the first time recently. I quite like it – vibrant, colourful thing. MH You should try out Mark’s Bar in Hixter. It’s a similar layout to Soho, same cocktail list, but it’s got a 2:30am licence. EL Thanks, I will do. Though I’m so old these days I’m basically in bed by midnight. I'd never make it till 2:30am. MH [laughs] The Fish n’ Hix Masterclasses at Hix Mayfair, £185 per person; roccofortehotels.com

Chelsea_Mar_Chef_Q&A.indd 72

21/02/2014 10:45

Escape to the country, in London.

The Grazing Goat and The Orange offer a total of 12 beautiful hotel rooms with oak floors, king size beds, marble en-suites and complimentary Wi-Fi. To make a reservation call 020 7730 0070 or visit cubitthouse.co.uk

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20/02/2014 14:52

DINE ON THE NINTH FLOOR OVERLOOKING KNIGHTSBRIDGE

Sit back and relax in The Club Room at The Peak Health Club & Spa on Sloane Street. The perfect place for a relaxing drink, snack or healthy lunch with fabulous panoramic views of London.

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06/02/2014 13:48:20 20/02/2014 17:53

FOOD&TRAVEL LE CREUSET CAST IRON

26cm Shallow Casserole

RECIPE

CHICKEN WITH BLACK GRAPE & MARSALA SAUCE

FINE

fetish ‘Cream cheese, orange and passion fruit’ might not be three flavours we’d naturally put together, but then again, we don’t have the nose of French master patissier, Pierre Hermé. This luxurious flavour combo, named ‘Fetish Satine’, can be found in cakes, tarts and macarons, all from 11th March. Remember: the queue starts behind us. Prices vary, 13 Lowndes Street, SW1, 020 7245 03 17; pierreherme.com

SERVES 4-6 INGREDIENTS 26cm cast iron shallow casserole serves 4 people. 2 tablespoons olive oil, 125g (1 cup) cubed pancetta, 4 shallots halved, 8 small-medium or 6 large skinned chicken thighs, 2 garlic cloves thinly sliced, 6 sprigs fresh oregano, 6 sprigs fresh flat leaf parsley, 2 bay leaves, 3 rounded tablespoons mascarpone cheese, 250ml (1 cup) Marsala wine, 1 teaspoon cornflour, 175g (1 heaping cup) seedless black grapes, a little salt, freshly ground black pepper

LIGHT b i te s

METHOD Oven: 140°C / 280°F / Gas Mark 1 Pre-heated fan oven: 120°C

Heat half the oil in the casserole over a medium heat. Add the pancetta with the shallots and fry for 1 minute, stirring occasionally. Remove with a slotted spoon, draining well.

2 3

Add the remaining oil and the chicken thighs and brown evenly.

Return the pancetta with the shallots to the casserole, add the fresh herbs and all but 2 tablespoons of the Marsala wine. Season with a little salt and pepper, place the lid on and cook in the oven for 2 hours.

Blend together the mascarpone cheese, cornflour and the rest of the Marsala wine. Remove the casserole from the oven and stir in the grapes with the mascarpone mixture. Return to the oven for 25-30 minutes.

Serve with pasta, gnocchi or a simple mashed potato and a green vegetable, like beans.

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hey call it ‘mother’s ruin’, but we say that’s rubbish, for the only thing it actually ruins is a Sunday morning – if it and the tonic are absent. Professor Cornelius Bathtub Gin is infused with juniper, orange peel, coriander, cinnamon, cloves and cardamon, which sounds most eastern and exotic – not like any bathtub we’ve ever enjoyed. Made into a fresh martini or a G&T, this imaginatively designed bottle is just the ticket for Mother’s Day. £39, Available from Harvey Nichols, 109-125 Knightsbridge, SW1, 020 7235 5000;

We love puddings and whilst ice cream is a favourite, sometimes we need something a little more sophisticated. Lushice are cocktail-flavoured sorbets, created by Fulhambased Laura Lewis to contain – yes, you guessed it – real alcohol! At around only 100 calories each, they’re not too naughty either – plus they come in a range of fab flavours, like Pina Colada and Strawberry Daiquiri. £1.99, Available from Partridges, 2-5, Duke Of York Square, SW3, 020 7730 0651; lushicesorbet.com

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DID YOU KNOW… THE ENGLISH TERM ‘sardine’ DATES BACK TO THE 15 CENTURY & MAY COME FROM THE ISLAND, SARDINIA, AROUND WHICH SARDINES WERE PLENTIFUL TH

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FOOD&TRAVEL

THE HOTEL

THE SUITE ▲ A first floor suite boasts a master bedroom, a luxurious en-suite bathroom, fullyequipped kitchen and a comfortable seating and dining area. The somewhat gigantic bed has the most cloud-like mattress on the market, ensuring slumber comes easy after a day on the beach. A secluded balcony overlooking the crashing waves lies just outside the bedroom and, once you get the knack of them, French windows allow access to it. Whilst it’s ideal for a couple on a romantic minibreak, children under 14 can be accommodated on z-beds, so it’s great for small families too.

ST. MORITZ

 On site since the 1930s, the ‘new’ rebuilt St. Moritz hotel nestles snugly above the village of Trebetherick, near the notorious Rock. Artdeco inspired, a £15million investment saw the hotel transform into a Miami-esque structure, reminiscent of an ocean liner from the outside. Meanwhile inside, it’s all Jamie Oliver-approved interiors by Absolute Design of Falmouth. Made up of 48 hotel bedrooms and 16 suites, each with jawdropping seaside views, St. Moritz is a gem of an escape for both the weekender and holidaymaker.

CORNWALL

The Cowshed Spa

THE RESTAURANT ▲ With an impressive breakfast buffet and dinner menu, new head chef (and Rick Stein protégé) Jamie Porter delivers on quality, freshness and locality of ingredients. The Cornish Crab Salad is crustacean heaven, whilst the Whole Plaice with Brown Shrimps and Capers is rather good too. For a change of scenery, spring and summer lunches can be enjoyed by the pool (with a sea view) at ‘Sea Side at St Moritz’ – an adorable outhouse serving light bites such as crunchy, crispy squid and oriental mussels.

▲ Enveloped within the cosy confines of the hotel is the Cornish Cowshed, part of the much-loved family of Cowshed spas. Available to guests and non-residents alike, the spa is home to a comprehensive gym, lap and fun pools, a sauna and a Hamman-style steam room. A number of beauty treatments are on offer, but we highly recommend the Cowshed 60-minute facial. Using Cowshed’s signature therapeutic products, it includes exfoliation, cleansing, a relaxing massage and a bespoke facial mask, leaving your skin feeling fresh and clean, free from any sand, salt or stress.

£ T H E DA M AG E

A ground floor suite from £210 per night including breakfast, first floor sea view suite from £345 per night. Average lunch is £17.50 for 2 courses, and dinner, £30 for 3 courses. The Cowshed 60-minute facial treatment is £60. Trebetherick, Wadebridge, Cornwall, PL27 6SD, 01208 862242; stmoritzhotel.co.uk

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20/02/2014 14:35

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NEW WORLD AS A BRITISH COLONY, Hong Kong WAS AN ENDURING REMINDER OF FORMER EMPIRIC GRANDEUR. YET TODAY IS A VERY DIFFERENT STORY. 20 YEARS SINCE HER LAST VISIT, BROADCASTER Sue Lawley RETURNS TO DISCOVER A CITY CHARGING HEADLONG INTO THE FUTURE…

ong Kong has no room for the past. Its history lies buried beneath the crowd of skyscrapers that smother every inch of its surface, a constantly replenished jungle of stone, steel and glass. For a 150 years, Hong Kong was a British colony. Extracted from the mainland of Imperial China at the end of the Opium Wars in 1842, it survived invasion and occupation by the Japanese in the Second World War and the upheavals of the Chinese Communist Revolution until we returned it to China

in 1997. A stroll round Hong Kong today, however, reveals none of this. Only the Peak Tram, a dainty piece of Victorian engineering that trundles tourists by the wagonload from the centre of the city to the city’s highest point, reminds you of its colonial past. I hadn’t visited Hong Kong for more than 20 years – long before the handover to China. It may now be part of the People’s Republic of China but it has special status: it is still run on a capitalist system. And it’s growing at a colossal rate. However, residents can’t be certain what the future holds. ‘We have to be patient,’ I was told by a district judge. ‘We don’t know what

will happen – but if you go to cities such as Shanghai, they are every bit as commercial as here. They don’t seem ‘communist’ at all.’ Other residents are more sceptical. A distinguished British-born Chinese man told me that the unseen but controlling hand of the People’s Republic now infected all the major decisions about the government of Hong Kong. Armed with these political thoughts, I set out to explore the world’s most vertical city. In the best areas, land is at a premium – apartments sell for about £3,000 per square foot, as much, if not more, than the swishest Knightsbridge properties – but beyond the city lie miles of untouched

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FOOD&TRAVEL countryside, too steep and unforgiving to be developed. I was taken by boat around some of the hundreds of uninhabited islands and their beautiful beaches off the coast of the New Territories and shown nature trails that lead through miles of forest. Hiking, sailing and golf are now important Hong Kong activities: an essential escape from the suffocating crowds at its heart. My own escape from the bustle lay in the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, the first luxury hotel to be opened in Hong Kong, which is this year celebrating its fiftieth anniversary. Here you can imagine what life in colonial days might have been like. The place is immaculate: you feel like the governor (or the governor’s wife) as soon as you walk in. Doors are opened, lifts summoned, bags carried and tables booked by an army of staff, each one of whom treats you as if you were the only person who mattered. It’s very addictive. The only thing that’s changed about this hotel is its location. It’s still in the same spot – but whereas it once stood almost on the waterfront near where the Star

Ferry crosses from Hong Kong Island to Kowloon, it’s now 500 yards back from the water. Land has been reclaimed from the harbour to allow more building. That’s Hong Kong for you. Although none of this appears to have affected the hotel’s views, and its restaurants, bars and rooms still offer a magnificent panorama of Victoria Harbour – one of the great maritime sights of the world. The Mandarin Oriental is still the epitome of Asian luxury. Such service

in the window – hairy crab, abalone (sea snails) and squid – but in recent years the international march of the foodie army has arrived on Hong Kong’s shores, sprinkling its stars and its little red forks on restaurants of all descriptions. Eating in Hong Kong has always been an adventure into a culinary jungle, but these days they give you a map. Making a decision about where to eat proved one of the most taxing parts of my visit. And the buildings just get taller. The new International Commerce Centre which stands at the western end of Victoria Harbour is – at over 1,500 feet – now the tallest building in the city. They wanted

IT MAY BE PART OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA, BUT HONG KONG STILL HAS SPECIAL STATUS does not come cheap, of course, but if you want a refuge from the enervating world of Hong Kong, it’s the place to be. Since passing into Chinese hands, Hong Kong’s entrepreneurial activity has only increased. But something else seems to be happening too. The city has a more international feel – perhaps the result of the flood of Chinese who now visit from across the border. Kowloon, the home of Chinese night markets and tailors’ shops, is now also full of global shopping brands which jostle for space between the myriad of stalls and shops selling goods from all over the world. On Hong Kong Island, a stroll along Hollywood Road – on what are called the Mid-Levels – reveals an endless parade of trendy art galleries and designer boutiques. In the old days you would never have thought of Hong Kong as an ‘arty’ place. That’s all changing now. But the essence of Hong Kong remains: its flood of trade is like the estuary of a great river fed by tributaries from many different places. This new dynamism affects two of the things for which Hong Kong has always been famous – food and architecture. You can still eat a sumptuous meal at any one of the hundreds of local restaurants, often choosing your seafood from a tank

to make it even taller, but that would have meant it was higher than Hong Kong’s highest natural point, The Peak, so the building was scaled back. Nevertheless, it’s a towering reminder of the energy and power that Asia, and particularly China, is now unleashing. Under the Basic Law that was enacted as part of the handover to China, English remains, with Chinese, one of the city’s two official languages – a status it will retain for the next 34 years at least. But language is just about the only element of Hong Kong’s colonial past that’s still in existence. Everything else has gone, obliterated by the city’s relentless march into the future, a metropolis stretching ever upwards in its search for commercial heaven. It is a 21st century phenomenon: a place where the world is changing fast. It’s this that makes Hong Kong a place that has to be seen.

MANDARIN ORIENTAL

5 nights at Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong from £1,595 per person, including breakfast, flights and transfers booked with Audley Travel, who offer tailor made itineraries throughout Southeast Asia. 01993 838 100; audleytravel.com For further information on Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong please call +852 2522 0111 or visit: mandarinoriental.com/hongkong

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FUNDU LAGOON

Heaven Spent THINKING OF A S A F A R I H O L I D A Y FOR 2014? H E N R Y M O R L E Y OF BETTER LATE LUXURY ROUNDS UP HIS FAVOURITE AFRICAN LODGES FOR DISCERNING TRAVELLERS W A N T I N G L U X U R Y F O R L E S S

FUNDU LAGOON

PEMBA ISLAND

s remote as it is beautiful, Pemba Island forms part of the Zanzibar archipelago, lying to the north of its larger, better known, sister island, Unguja. Fundu Lagoon itself sits on one of Pemba’s stunning, unspoilt beaches and is only accessible via boat. It’s all ridiculously romantic, providing barefoot luxury in the truest sense – this is a place where you most definitely do not need shoes. Each of the 18 rooms here – canvas tents set under makuti (thatch) roofs on wooden decks – offer panoramic views of the Indian

Ocean, meaning that you fall asleep and wake up to the sound of the waves caressing the beach. Follow the wooden walkways and jungle pathways through indigenous forest to the main hotel and you’ll find the stunning infinity hillside swimming pool overlooking the lagoon, a hidden oasis amongst the groves. The marine wildlife here is not to be missed, and you can both dive and snorkel to get a closer look at the reef fish found around the small barrier islands. Sound like too much hard work? Try a sunset cruises aboard a traditional wooden dhow, watching the dazzling sunset with a sundowner cocktail in your hand – the closest you can get to paradise on earth. Stay 7 nights and only pay for 5, saving between $1,740 (£1,078) and $3,000 (£1,858) per room. Valid until April 2015 (excluding 21st December – 5th January)

PEMBA ISLAND

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FOOD&TRAVEL

WE ALSO LOVE... MAHALI MZURI MAASAI MARA, KENYA

T GREYSTOKE

GREYSTOKE MAHALE TANZANIA

ne of the few African lodges that offers a truly unique experience, Greystoke Mahale is an extraordinary camp in remote western Tanzania where the main aim is to get up close and personal with the local stars – the chimps. Here, you’ll find not only a storybook tropical forest full of chimpanzees, but also the second deepest lake in the world – Lake Tanganyika – all yours to explore by boat or kayak from the sustainable beachside camp. Completely isolated from human civilisation, the camp offers daily treks into the misty mountains to discover the waterfalls, wildlife and wondrous birds and butterflies hidden under the treetops. A great one for children, the trek tracks the chimps so that you get to watch them in their natural habitat, interacting with each other in their uncannily human way. Keep your eyes peeled as you might just spot the odd leopard along the way, too. In the evenings, it’s time to relish the sense of seclusion Greystoke Mahale provides and curl up with a good book and a glass of wine whilst the sun sets across the lake. Secret Season Special. Stay at Greystoke between 1st June – 30th June 2014 and pay only $450 (£267) per person per night, 54% less than the high season nightly rate of $1,075 (£663) per person per night

Henry Morley is the Managing Director of Better Late Luxury, an exclusive travel platform offering luxurious holidays at discounts of up to 55%. To book any of the deals described in this feature call 020 3137 1247, email enquiries@betterlateluxury.com or visit betterlateluxury.com

his is no ordinary luxury safari camp. This is Sir Richard Branson’s safari camp and trust us, it doesn’t disappoint. Sat in the most pristine part of the African bush, Mahali Mzuri’s 12 tents perch on a ridge overlooking the awe-inspiring landscape of Kenya’s Motorogi Conservancy. It also happens to be in the path of the world-famous annual Great Migration, meaning that there really is no where better for a quintessential ‘Big Five’ safari. We recommend a trip hot air ballooning over the plains for an all-encompassing bird’s eye view of the Maasai Mara during the day, followed by a spot of stargazing at night using the camps telescope.

LEOBO OBSERVATORY

SOUTH AFRICA One of only a handful of sole-use private reserves in South Africa, Leobo Private Reserve is a 12,000 acre estate encompassing rugged rocks, bushveld savannah, natural streams and an abundance of wildlife. 35,000 ZAR (£2,199) per night or 175,000 ZAR (£10,995) for the week. Book 7 nights and receive free helicopter transfers to and from Johannesburg airport, and free helicopter trips during your stay. You save 20%. Deal expires on 1st April 2014.

LUWI BUSH CAMP

Make sure you bring all the family too as Mahali Mzuri is super child friendly – the camp is full of children’s books, games, and kites, plus a TV, DVD player and games console for extra entertainment. The friendly staff are also able to organise tailored activities to further educate younger guests on their African surroundings and the local wildlife (so top marks back in the biology classroom, then). Meanwhile, older guests will love the spa rooms where treatments use the Africology range of products which are wonderfully natural and eco-friendly, and the 12-metre infinity pool – perfect for early morning swims and refreshing dips after game drives. Stay for 4 nights, pay for 3. This offer is available for new bookings staying until 30th June 2014. Saving of 25% per person. Normal nightly rates in mid season are from $890 (£549) per person per night

ZAMBIA Nestled in the shade of huge mahogany trees, Luwi Bush Camp’s remote location by a permanent hippo and crocodilefilled lagoon makes it perfect for walking safaris. Price for the week from: $2,990 per person (£1,844) as part of their ‘Week on the Wildside’ package, saving you 22% overall. Valid from May – October 2014

VAMIZI ISLAND LODGE

MOZAMBIQUE Defining castaway chic, Vamizi Island Lodge is made up of romantic timber villas dotted along a beautiful beaches on its own exclusive island. From $1085 per person per night (£669). Stay 7 nights and only pay for 5. Valid 6th-24th Jan, 1st March – 20th April, 21st June - 14th July, 13th Dec20th Dec.

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LondonEyeHospital

World leader in ophthalmology

0808 2713691 With state-of-the-art facilities in Harley Street and Wimpole Street – right in the heart of London’s internationally-acclaimed medical district – the London Eye Hospital is a dedicated ophthalmic hospital treating all eye conditions and caring for patients from all around the world. We offer the very best in patient care, comfort and service and use the most advanced, proven techniques and technology – often unavailable elsewhere – to deliver freedom from glasses and contacts. Our comprehensive treatments also extend to retinal and plastic surgery. Above all, we make sure we fully understand your condition and lifestyle before identifying a range of treatment options – and then help you choose the best one for you.

Our ophthalmic surgeons are the most experienced and highly qualified in their field. All new patients are allocated a UK-trained consultant chosen to match their specific needs – backed up at all times by our specialist nursing team. Whether you are attending for your first consultation, or day-case surgery and follow-up appointments, the London Eye Hospital offers easy access by rail, road and air – plus the chance to combine your visit with all that London has to offer.

Surgical Department London Eye Hospital 29a Wimpole Street London W1G 8GP UK

Out Patient Department London Eye Hospital 4 Harley Street London W1G 9PB UK

Telephone: Local: 0808 2713691 / Overseas: +44 (0) 207 060 2602

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FOOD&TRAVEL

TR AV E L

True blue heck out this view. Rather gets your heart a-racing doesn’t it? Well it does ours. It’s all just so blue. And what could be nicer? This is the view from the Meganissi villa, Panorea, a seaview property complete with infinity pool, overlooking the Ionian sea. We’re willing summer to come just so we can book it. In the mean time, it’s our screen saver. Villas start from €1,670 per week, sleeps 6. 020 7377 8518; thinkionianislands.com

NOTES

A dog’s life here is nothing more irritating than going on a romantic minibreak and arriving at your destination to find your darling pooch isn’t welcome. How can you enjoy yourself knowing he’s shivering in the carpark? This is why we love The Talbot. Set in glorious North Yorkshire, for £10 your dog gets access to your bedroom and also his own food. Now that’s puppy LOVE. Talbot Hotel, Malton, North Yorkshire, YO17 7AJ, 01653 639 096; talbotmalton.co.uk

Love the leopard alk with the leopards in Western Rajasthan’s Aravalli Hills. In Jawai Leopard Camp, which can be found in the heart of the wilderness, enjoy the most beautiful views imaginable in a cosy luxury tent with a huge bed and private bathroom attached. During the day, spot flamingos by reservoir, Jawai Bandh, and track leopards with the camp’s trackers. 10-day India itinerary including 3 nights at Udaipur and 3 nights at Jawai Leopard Camp from £2,750 per person based on 2 people sharing including flights. 0845 0756 079; steppestravel.co.uk

BASK IN BARCELONA Spain’s had a tough time of it recently – it needs our support. Jet off to Barcelona, more specifically, the Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona. With 17 new rooms to show off, this luxurious hotel is situated on the city’s most prestigious boulevard, Passeig de Gràcia. Each new room has been designed by the renowned Patricia Urquiola, just the ticket for a romantic weekend pre-Easter. +34 93 151 88 88; mandarinoriental.com

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Smart is always the first to know. Get instant property alerts

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MARCH 2014

ABSOLUTELY

PROPERTY

CRESSWELL GARDENS, SW5 Maskells are delighted to offer a wonderfully large (1953 sq ft), light and spacious three bedroom garden maisonette tucked into the south west corner of Cresswell Gardens with direct access onto the lovely and very secluded communal garden, in addition to a private patio and terrace. Energy Rating E

ÂŁ3,700,000 Share of Freehold Maskells Estate Agents | 020 7581 2216 | sales@maskells.co.uk | www.maskells.co.uk

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We donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t move on when you move in. After buying or selling, discover how our Concierge Service can help you.

M A S K E L L S E S TAT E A G E N T S W W W. M A S K E L L S . C O . U K

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19/02/2014 16:17 15:22

Mas

RESIDENTIAL AGENTS IN THE ROYAL BOROUGH AND SW1 SINCE 1965

Redcliffe Gardens, SW10 • Leasehold • Two Bedrooms • Two Bathrooms • Reception Room • Kitchen

• Conservatory • Garden • Approx 1197 sq ft • Energy Rating C

£1,250,000 STC

A very well presented two bedroom, two bathroom garden flat situated on the preferred Western side of Redcliffe Gardens. Set back from the road, the flat is wide and spacious with a delightful open plan drawing room and study towards the rear of the flat opening out onto a 21 ft private garden.

020 7581 2216

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19/02/2014 16:17 15:22

RESIDENTIAL AGENTS IN THE ROYAL BOROUGH AND SW1 SINCE 1965

Bulls Gardens Chelsea, SW3 £1,200 per week (£5,200 pcm)*

Onslow Square South Kensington, SW7 £1,650 pw (£7,150 pcm)*

A truly unique detached two bedroom house tucked away in a cul-de-sac behind Walton Street, a short walk from the shopping and transport amenities of nightsbridge. The house is laid out over three floors with great entertaining space and with the added benefit of outside space. House | 2 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | 2 Reception Rooms | Kitchen | Balcony | Terrace | Energy Rating D

This is a beautifully restored and meticulously maintained 3 bedroom lateral apartment situated on the third floor with lift of a stucco fronted Victorian house on the south side of Onslow Square, with views over the communal gardens. 3 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms (1 En suite) | Reception Room | Kitchen | Access to Communal Gardens | Energy Rating C *All potential tenants should be advised that administration fees may be applicable when renting a property. Please contact us for more details of these charges.

020 7581 2216

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19/02/2014 16:17 15:22

Mas

RESIDENTIAL AGENTS IN THE ROYAL BOROUGH AND SW1 SINCE 1965

Egerton Gardens Knightsbridge, SW3

A newly refurbished 2 double bedroom apartment in a prime Knightsbridge location, situated on the lower ground floor of this handsome Victorian building. The property benefits from a private patio garden and access to the communal gardens.

£875 per week (£3,791.67 pcm)*

Ormonde Gate Chelsea, SW3 £795 per week (£3,445 pcm)*

A well-presented second floor apartment benefitting from wonderful views across Burton Court. The property is located just south of the Kings Road and is 0.5 miles from Sloane Square underground station (district and circle lines). Bedroom | Bathroom | Separate WC | Reception Room | Separate Kitchen | 792 sq ft | Energy Rating D *All potential tenants should be advised that administration fees may be applicable when renting a property. Please contact us for more details of these charges.

020 7581 2216

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19/02/2014 16:17 15:23

WE ALREADY KNOW OVER

Your valuation was spot on. Your knowledge of the area is unparalleled and the way you work is brilliant.

PROSPECTIVE BUYERS AND TENANTS WHO ARE LOOKING FOR A PROPERTY JUST LIKE YOURS

A RECENT CLIENT

Our local property reports ‘ON THE MARKET’ look in detail at what is happening in and around where you live.

Local know-how. Better results.

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SALES

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

Waterford Road SW6 £2,300,000 Positioned on the Chelsea/Fulham border this superb house offers well balanced accommodation arranged over four floors. The property comprises a beautiful ground floor reception room and a bright eat-in kitchen leading out to a private patio garden. The lower ground floor offers a further reception room, study area, double bedroom and a shower room while the upper floors provide a beautiful master bedroom with en suite bathroom, two further double bedrooms and a bathroom. Freehold. Sole Agents.

FULHAM: 020 7736 9822 sales.ful@marshandparsons.co.uk

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

Barnes

Brook Green

Earls Court

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Ovington Square SW3 ÂŁ2,100,000 Situated on a highly sought after garden square lies this beautifully proportioned apartment in one of londons most desirable locations. The property itself has been nished to the highest standard to include a spacious reception room, a modern tted kitchen, two double bedrooms, two bathrooms one en suite and a stunning private garden. The apartment offers access to lovely communal gardens, sub ect to approval. Share of Freehold. EPC= . Sole Agents.

CHELSEA: 020 7591 5570 sales.chs@marshandparsons.co.uk

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SALES

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

Burlington Lodge Studios SW6 ÂŁ1,395,000 Having undergone an extensive programme of careful and sympathetic refurbishment, this spacious home is offered in superb condition throughout. The enormous reception room, ďŹ&#x201A;ooded with natural light, has been cleverly designed to offer comfortable living space. The large master bedroom suite boasts a walk-through dressing room and en suite bathroom with roll-top bath. The property offers a further double bedroom with en suite and plenty of storage throughout. Share of Freehold. EPC=F.

BISHOPS PARK: 020 7993 9888 sales.bis@marshandparsons.co.uk

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ABSOLUTELY Property

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ABSOLUTELY Property

IN THEIR OWN

WORDS TOM WARD Director of aspire, Fulham Photography: Rebecca Noonan

riginally from Fulham, I grew up with the far-fetched desire of becoming a racing driver and following in my fathers’ footsteps. However, at thirteen years old, I had no idea of the expense involved! So photography and graphic design became a keen and somewhat less expensive interest of mine. However, after several years of working within my chosen field, as well as within the social and nightlife industry, I wanted a career change. The property industry included two key attractions, the involvement of working with people and the element of design - as each property is unique and requires subtle differences to marketing techniques. I have been in estate agency for ten years now, over which time I have seen Fulham develop into the strong market it is today. Whilst previously it was classed as an overspill and a more affordable Chelsea, the borough has experienced growth and a vast increase in property prices over the last 12 months. The area caters for both young adults and families and has become a favourite with buy-to-let and overseas investors. Fulham’s green spaces, prestigious schools, local shops, family run pubs, Michelin star restaurants and, of

course, the increasing convenience of transport into the city centre, along with ease of access to the home counties and beyond, form part of the area’s strong attraction. Fulham has managed to maintain its ‘village feel’, especially around the areas of Parsons Green, Sands End and Munster Road. We regularly take clients for after work drinks in the Sands End pub and I often bump into familiar faces along the Wandsworth Bridge Road and within the Munster Village where our offices are situated. The range of properties coming to market in Fulham includes everything from smart flats to expansive five bedroom houses, so there truly is a home for everyone. However, you need to act fast as there is a chronic lack of property available, this is a major factor contributing to the sharp price hikes, which are set to continue into this year. Subject to the high demand for all types of property, we expect to see these price rises continue, certainly for the spring period and into the summer, but we expect an inevitable slow down towards the latter part of the year. � 020 7736 6110; aspire.co.uk

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DOULTON HOUSE, Chelsea Creek, SW6 A brand-new two bedroom apartment in an exciting new development on the River Thames.The apartment comprises an open-plan kitchen/ reception room, a master bedroom with en-suite bathroom and built-in wardrobes, a second double bedroom, family bathroom and balcony. Chelsea Creek benefits from a 24-hour concierge service, private spa, swimming pool, gym facilities and access to beautiful landscaped gardens. EPC rating B. Guide price: ÂŁ975,000 +44(0)20 7225 6700 andrew.gunnforbes@harrodsestates.com

KNIGHTSBRIDGE OFFICE: 82 BROMPTON ROAD LONDON SW3 1ER T: +44 (0)20 7225 6506 MAYFAIR OFFICE: 61 PARK LANE LONDON W1K 1QF T: +44 (0)20 7409 9001 CHELSEA OFFICE: 58 FULHAM ROAD LONDON SW3 6HH T: +44 (0)20 7225 6700

HARRODSESTATES.COM

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20/02/2014 09:35

THE TOWER, One St Georges Wharf, SW8

ew es om nd ea ate ful

One of the first properties to come to the rental market in this stunning, brand new, riverside development. The Tower offers superb amenities to residents, with a luxury gym and spa, cinema, lounge, meeting rooms, swimming pool with river views, 24 hour porter and concierge services and underground parking. The apartment (approx. 1,392 sq. ft.) is on the sixth floor with direct river views from the reception room and all three bedrooms, comfort cooling, integrated media and security systems. The accommodation comprises open plan kitchen / reception room, sky garden, master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, two further double bedrooms and family bathroom. Available immediately for long term rentals on a furnished basis. EPC rating B. Price £2,000pw Property Fees: £180 Admin & £210 Checkout. References: £42 per person* *http://www.harrodsestates.com/tenants +44(0)20 7225 6700 candice.fletcher@harrodsestates.com

HARRODSESTATES.COM

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ABSOLUTELY Property

Prime Purchase Vendor

Advice Benjamin Gee Associate Director and Sales Manager, Marsh & Parsons, Bishops Park � 020 7993 9888; marshandparsons.co.uk

How do I market my property to the widest possible audience?

�

An impressive three bedroom, split level garden apartment, situated in a fine period building in the heart of one of Knightsbridge’s finest garden squares.

sensational property located on the raised ground and lower ground floors of this stunning period building, facing due West over Cadogan Place gardens. This property boasts a stylish interior with high ceilings throughout. The property comprises a beautiful reception room, kitchen, dining room, three double bedrooms, two

Details

Cadogan Place, Belgravia, SW1 £4,300,000

bathrooms (one en-suite) and a magnificent private patio garden. The property also benefits from access to one of the finest garden squares in Central London. Cadogan Place is a prime residential address located parallel to Sloane Street in the heart of Knightsbridge, within walking distance of Sloane Street.

Contact

Marsh & Parsons, Chelsea 020 7591 5570; marshandparsons.co.uk

uite simply, instruct a reputable, well connected estate agent, with great marketing and a proven track record in finding the best buyers and tenants. Marsh & Parsons isn’t like other estate agents, because our network of 19 offices all work together to expose our client’s properties to the widest possible audience. And with 10,000 buyers and tenants currently looking to buy or rent with us, that’s a big audience! Clever and strategic marketing is also important. Our website attracts 1.5 million clicks from 194 different countries per year; we list on all the portals, like Rightmove, Zoopla and Primelocation; and we advertise in all the best places, including local and national publications, buses, tubes and billboards across London. All of this combined means we’ll almost certainly find the best buyers or tenants for your property - that’s if we don’t know them already!

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ABSOLUTELY Property

Luxurious Lettings Lowdown

For Landlords What are some easy and affordable ways to get a higher rent and return on investment?

e predict that there is going to be an influx of properties being introduced to the rental market in the first few months of this year, which means that Landlord competition will be strong. It is vital therefor to ensure our Landlords are presenting their properties in the best light in order to compete. The best ways of doing this are ensuring paint, carpets and curtains are all in good condition, windows are clean, all lights are working, the property smells fresh with good quality diffusers rather than a glade plug in, if necessary. Mismatched furniture always cheapens a property and over furnished rooms always make them appear smaller, especially in photos. At this time of year a bugbear of mine is dead plants in gardens and window boxes, they are cheap and easy to put right and if it’s going to make the difference between finding a tenant at a good price or not then I can’t understand why Landlords wouldn’t replant.

�

A beautiful modern apartment located just moments from Sloane Square and the amenities of Knightsbridge

ur classic two bedroom apartments are situated on the second and third floors, and consist of a master bedroom and a second bedroom with views over Sloane Gardens, a quiet residential road.

Two of these apartments have an open plan designer kitchen and sitting room, and the rest a separate sitting room with an elevated kitchen. Each has a bathroom and separate cloakroom.

Alice Umfreville Associate, Head of Chelsea Lettings, Strutt & Parker

Details

Sloane Gardens, SW1 £3,530 Per Week

Contact

Beauchamp Estates, Chelsea 020 7499 7722; beauchamp.co.uk

� 020 7589 9966; struttandparker.com

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Ultimate elegant city living

Set in the desirable neighbourhood of Fulham, Hurlingham Gate presents a superb collection of just 13 four bedroom classic townhouses, all benefiting from private terraces, secluded gardens and gated off-street parking.

Prices from ÂŁ2,250,000 * For more information call 020 8246 4199

Traditional vernaculars and beautiful interiors by Martin Goddard showcase exceptional quality and award-winning design from St James.

*Prices correct at time of going to press. CGIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s are indicative only.

Classic luxury townhouses in Fulham SW6

Visit Hamptons International 193-195 Kings Road, London SW6 4SS Open Monday-Friday 9am to 6pm, Saturday 9am to 2pm

St James is proud to be a member of the Berkeley Group of companies

HAMPTON NEW HOMES_APR.inddFulham 2 9478_035_Hurlingham_advert_The Resident V2.indd 1

www.hurlinghamgate.co.uk

19/02/2014 06/12/2013 16:50 15:52

N ST NE RU W CT IO IN

WANDSWORTH BRIDGE ROAD, FULHAM, SW6 ÂŁ785 per week

Newly refurbished split level ground floor maisonette. Accommodation comprises three double bedrooms, two bathrooms, a brand new contemporary kitchen, and a spacious reception room leading out onto a quiet and private patio garden. The property also benefits new carpets and modern lighting throughout, complete with a fully functional feature fire-place. The property is located at the top end of Wandsworth Bridge Road, close to New Kings Road and Fulham Broadway. FEES APPLY.

Tel +44 (0)20 7731 0031 100-102 Wandsworth Bridge Road, Fulham, London, SW6 2TF Email fulham@fineandcountry.com

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AG LE RE T ED

TOURNAY ROAD, FULHAM, SW6 ÂŁ375 per week

An exceptional brand new one double bedroom flat within a new ultra modern development close to Fulham Broadway. Accommodation comprises a spacious living area with access to a fantastic private terrace. There is an open plan kitchen, master bedroom with built in wardrobe an ensuite bathroom and W/C. Lift access is available from the interior design access from the main lobby. Tournay House is situated on Tournay Road with the ever popular North End Road. There are restaurants, retail and local amenities available in the immediate surroundings for residents to enjoy. Fulham Broadway Station (District Line, 5 min walk).The property is furnished and available immediately. FEES APPLY.

Tel +44 (0)20 7731 0031 100-102 Wandsworth Bridge Road, Fulham, London, SW6 2TF Email fulham@fineandcountry.com

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Living the Dream The most luxuriously appointed properties on the market. Old Church Street, SW3 Old Church Street, one of the oldest streets in Old Chelsea, dating back to the 16th Century, runs south from the Kings Road down to the River Thames. This wonderful home has been decorated to a beautiful standard and comprises a large roof terrace, three double bedrooms, two bathrooms, and sumptuous master-suite over the entire first floor, with a dressing room, along with the study/potential fourth bedroom, a vast, open-plan reception with kitchen. The ground floor has a fabulous reception room with a guest cloakroom. The top floor has two further bedrooms, a bathroom, and also leads to the stunning roof terrace.

£4,250,000

Freehold

020 7591 5570: marshandparsons.co.uk

Draycott Place, SW3

Parsons Green Lane, SW6

A 1,254 sq ft top floor flat with wonderful light via large windows and a huge skylight, south-facing roof terrace, balcony and wooden floors throughout. The flat has bright, open-plan living space and is located in a handsome red brick corner converted period building with low service charges. The flat is ready to move into without further expense.

A fantastic opportunity to purchase a well presented modern house in this prime location in the heart of Parsons Green benefiting from a west facing garden. The property is situated in an excellent position moments from Parsons Green underground station. Ideally located in the catchment area for Lady Margaret school. Located in close proximity to Parsons Green. Potential to extend, STPP.

£2,725,000

£975,000

020 7225 1225; douglasandgordon.com

020 7381 4998; lockettestates.co.uk

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ABSOLUTELY Property

Barclay Road, SW6 A stunning Victorian garden apartment, which has been refurbished to the highest of standards, offering interior designed contemporary space and combining modern living within a period property. This fantastic property comprises three double bedrooms, double reception room, kitchen/ breakfast room, cloakroom, ensuite bathroom, two ensuite shower rooms, no forward chain, and a South West facing garden.

£1,650,000 KFH, Fulham

020 7731 0051; kfh.co.uk

Wilton Place, SW1 An elegant Grade II Listed Freehold House situated on this extremely attractive terrace within the Belgravia Conservation Area. The house is beautifully presented throughout, with impressive and elegant entertaining space, including a glorious first floor drawing room with views across to St Pauls Knightsbridge. The house also offers a front garden and large West facing roof terrace on the first floor.

£8,000,000 Freehold

020 7589 6677; bectivelesliemarsh.co.uk

West Kensington Mansions, Beaumont Crescent, W14 A fabulous red brick mansion block situated in the heart of West Kensington. This large five bedroom split level apartment comprises, spacious master bedroom, two double bedrooms and a modern kitchen/breakfast room. The top floor has a further two bedrooms and cosy reception, with two areas for storage.

£900,000 Freehold

0207 381 0319; featherstoneleigh.co.uk

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sullivanthomas.co.uk | carterjonas.co.uk

STEVENAGE ROAD SW6

£5,000,000 F/H

A simply exceptional and unsurpassed newly refurbished and fully extended semi-detached house, offering approximately 4,500 sq ft of space.

• 2 reception rooms

• Patio

• Kitchen/family room

• Garden

• 6/7 bedrooms

• Energy efficiency: Band C

• 6 bathrooms

QUEENSMILL ROAD SW6

£1,950,000 F/H

An immaculately presented semi-detached period house with french windows opening onto a 46ft south-facing garden.

• Double reception room

• South-facing garden

• Kitchen/breakfast room

• Front and rear mansard

• 4 bedrooms • 3 bathrooms Fulham Bishops Park Sales: 020 7731 3333

extension • Energy efficiency: Band D

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

Fulham Bishops Park Sales: 020 7731 3333

Part of a network of 9 offices in London and a further 19 across the country

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FULHAM ROAD SW6

£695 per week*/£3,012 per month*

A sensational flat split over the second and third floor maisonette offering approximately 1,200 sq ft of useable space.

• Open-plan reception

• Stunning roof terrace

• Kitchen/breakfast room

• Energy efﬁciency: Band E

• 3 double bedrooms • 3 bathrooms

Fulham Parsons Green Lettings: 020 7751 8898

LAMBROOK TERRACE SW6

£425 per week*/£1,842 per month*

A beautifully presented garden flat set on this popular and quiet residential street, located off the Fulham Palace Road close to local transport links.

Fulham Parsons Green Lettings: 020 7751 8898

• Reception room

• South-facing garden

• Kitchen

• Period features

• 2 double bedrooms

• Own entrance

• Bathroom

• Energy efficiency: Band D

*Rent excludes administration fees. Please contact your local office for further information.

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

*Rent excludes administration fees. Please contact your local office for further information.

sullivanthomas.co.uk | carterjonas.co.uk

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Smooth Selling...

Tel: 0208 563 0202 404-406 North End Road, Fulham, London SW6 1LU w w w. l a w s o n sa n d d a u g h t e r s. co m LAWSON & DAUGHTERS_NEW.indd 8

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New Release GOLDHURST HOUSE Introducing Goldhurst House, the new release of exclusive residences at Londonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s prestigious riverside destination, Fulham Reach. Each spacious apartment enjoys stunning river views, a panoramic private balcony and interiors by the world renowned Tara Bernerd.

Prices from ÂŁ1,749,950* www.fulhamreach.co.uk

Fulham Reach Riverside Show Apartments & Marketing Suite, Distillery Road, London, W6 9RU

Proud to be a member of the Berkeley Group of Companies

020 7870 9500 enquiries@fulhamreach.co.uk

Computer generated images for illustrative purposes only and are subject to design development. *Prices correct at time of going to press.

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ABSOLUTELY Property

Property News Oakwood Court, W14

HOUSE Hunting Tiana Everett

Sales Manager at Home House Estates Earl’s Court � 020 3747 4997; homehouseestates.co.uk

The best place to invest? Earl’s Court in Kensington and Chelsea is becoming increasingly popular, with high demand especially from overseas buyers. With Italian coffee shops and French restaurants, as well as the easy commute to South Kensington’s amenities, it’s no wonder this hidden gem is finally getting the attention it deserves. Furthermore, the £8 billion Earl’s Court development promises us the regeneration of a classical landscape of crescents, squares and parks. This can only help the market in this area to develop. The most interesting property I have been involved in: Albert Court, a mansion block in SW7 from the early 20th century. At the time, Queen Victoria’s husband, Prince Albert, had a vision of an area devoted to the arts and sciences. In

Fine and Country – Bringing Property to life FINALLY, the new Fine and Country showrooms in Wandsworth Bridge Road are opening, and set to transform Estate Agency! Augmented reality is set to blow the lid off the traditional way of reaching out to the market, and Fine and Country are one of the first estate agencies in the world to embrace this cutting edge technology. Technology is changing fast and the time has come for the property industry to adopt new technology when marketing properties. Virtual View App uses augmented reality technology to bring printed marketing material to life. It is now possible to gather much more information efficiently about a property than ever before Domenic Versace, Virtual View App.

James Watson, Director at Fine & Country, Fulham 020 7731 0031; fulham.fineandcountry.co.uk

the ‘Albertopolis area’ as it was dubbed, this particular apartment of over 4000 sq ft was a perfect representation of the style and history from that time. The toughest sale and why? The residential market in Central London still deals directly with clients, and as an estate agent it’s impossible not to become entangled in emotional aspects of the sale. Not all sales are happy and uplifting, sometimes they are rather the opposite. For me the toughest sale is when personal tragedies are the reason for having the property on the market in the first place. Then, being only a strong negotiator or excellent professional is not enough and empathy is key for providing the best service. Finest property showcase: It has to be the elegant and spacious Edwardian mansion block apartment in Oakwood Court near Holland Park. There is something endlessly charming about lateral space like this. With over 3500 sq ft in size, this is a truly impressive property. Beautiful period mansion blocks like this are always highly sought after and attract buyers from all over the world. Oakwood Court, W14. £5,750,000.

Maskells launch “Home Set Up” Service MASKELLS ESTATE AGENTS announces the launch of its new “Home Set Up” Service in conjunction with White Circle Collection, a leading home concierge company. The service will help buyers and sellers to move with the minimum amount of effort. In brief, the service will: organise removals, utilities, Council Tax and Parking, change of address cards, source domestic staff from nannies to security consultants, provide advice on schools, doctors, dentists, gyms, shops, restaurants, builders, plumbers, electricians and interior designers! In fact, they can take care of anything you can think of! 020 7581 2216; maskells.co.uk

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Boutique living in the heart of w6 ASHLAR COURT Ravenscourt Gardens, London, W6 0TU

2 Bedroom apartments from £750,000

• A collection of 2 & 3 bedroom luxury apartments • Beautiful Grade II listed building • Many original features being retained • Secure underground parking • Lovingly restored communal gardens • Excellent transport links

For more information

0844 644 1576 lindenhomes.co.uk/ashlarcourt

Prices and details correct at time of going to press.

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THE ROOM WITH THE VIEW It’s extremely rare to find a new prime London development on the North Bank of the Thames. Riverwalk’s unique location, distinctive shape and curved balconies offer spectacular views over the river and London. These beautiful apartments, designed by Stirling Prize winning architects Stanton Williams, have exceptionally high ceilings and full height windows to maximise the sense of natural light within.

0844 544 4170 www.riverwalk.co.uk

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A development by Ronson Capital Partners in association with Derwent London

Show Suite now open By appointment only Prices from £1.8m

12/02/2014 13:10

ABSOLUTELY Property

Ask the Sales Experts Our panel of professionals give you the edge in the property market

1. Should I redecorate pre-sale? THE SHORT answer is yes. The question should really be to what extent? As all vendors know, first impressions are paramount and can make the difference between selling or not. However, once you start to redecorate it is sometimes difficult to know where to stop and before you know it the whole property has been done. At the very least, any old paint work or damp patches should be touched up and the windows and carpets should be professionally cleaned. If you have a garden, make sure it is well kept, especially at the front of the house to avoid people automatically dismissing the property before viewing the inside.

2. Why hasn’t my property sold? THERE CAN be a number of reasons as to why a property has not sold; given an appropriate price relevant to the prevailing market, everything will sell. The value judgement made by potential buyers will be based upon all or some of the following: Curb Appeal – how the property looks from the street, are the building and grounds (and/ or communal areas) well maintained? Fittings – dated kitchens and/or bathrooms don’t appeal. Appearance – cluttered, décor looking tired, carpets worn. Location – on a busy road, next to a graveyard or railway line. Availability of other similar properties in the area at the time. Price. It can sometimes be quite revealing to view the details of other properties for sale in the area to see how they are being presented, their asking pricing and how long they have been on the market. If you have had an appropriate and realistic valuation from a reputable estate agent, it need not be primarily about price.

3. Where should I invest? ALWAYS INVEST in properties close to transport links and local amenities. Check what new developments are due to be happening in the area, such as the Earls Court development or Crossrail. Or for safe investments, buy in established areas. Do read our specialist Investor reports for each of our 12 offices for more guidance.

4. What common mistakes do sellers make? SELLERS often don’t do enough research when choosing an agent to market their

property. Selecting a dynamic and proactive local agent who will actively sell your property is essential. Select several local agents and invite them to come and value your property. Don’t be seduced by slick patter and unrealistic promises.

5. How do Open House viewings work? OPEN house viewings have become increasingly popular due to high demand for properties in prime central London. When we are instructed on a property that we know will be of interest to a large number of our applicants currently looking, it makes sense to conduct an open house viewing. One of the main advantages of this is that more often than not we receive several offers on that day.

1. Benson Beard

2. Paul Finch

3. Emma Stead

Associate Director, Bective Leslie Marsh

Sales Manager, Beauchamp Estates

Associate Director, Douglas & Gordon

� 020 7589 6677 • bective.co.uk

� 020 7499 7722 • beauchamp.co.uk

� 020 7731 4791 • douglasandgordon.com

4. Peter Shaw

5. Kyle Best

Director, Featherstone Leigh

Senior Negotiator, Home House Estates

� 020 7610 9755 • featherstoneleigh.co.uk

� 020 3747 4997 • homehouseestates.co.uk

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020 7381 4998 • 190 Fulham Palace Road London W6 9PA sales@lockettestates.co.uk • lettings@lockettestates.co.uk • www.lockettestates.co.uk

Parsons Green Lane, SW6

Consort House, Imperial Wharf, SW6

A fantastic opportunity to purchase a well presented modern house in this prime location in the heart of Parsons Green benefiting from a west facing garden. EPC pending

A stunning two bedroom ground floor apartment situated within this sought after riverside development benefiting from two private patios. EPC pending

Two double bedrooms, bathroom, reception room, kitchen, garden

Two double bedrooms, bathroom, en-suite shower room, reception room/dining room, kitchen, two patios, communal gardens

£975,000

£1,250,000

020 7381 4998

Crabtree Lane, SW6

Drayton Gardens, SW10

A spacious and modern townhouse benefiting from wonderful open views of the River Thames. EPC D

An extremely well presented apartment benefiting from a balcony, situated in this fantastic location in the heart of Chelsea benefiting from an underground parking space. EPC pending

Three Double Bedrooms, Bathroom, Shower Room, Reception Room, Kitchen/Breakfast Room, Terrace

Two Double Bedrooms, En-Suite Bathroom, Shower Room, Reception Room, Kitchen, Balcony, Underground Parking Space

£695 per week

£795 per week

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020 7381 4998

18/02/2014 16:33

ABSOLUTELY Property

Showcase A truly stunning house in this beautiful Knightsbridge garden square

his superb six bedroom, five reception family home has been newly refurbished to the highest specification by Rigby & Rigby, with special attention paid to space, storage and light and incorporating exciting and innovative architectural design ideas and well conceived intelligent technology. The result is a successful unison of period features with contemporary style, to create easy and flexible living for modern family

Details

Ovington Square, SW3 ÂŁ10,250,000 Freehold

needs. The reception space is exceptionally well-planned and generously proportioned, with an elegant classic first floor drawing room, and excellent open-plan ground floor kitchen, dining room and breakfast area and a super media room at lower ground floor level opening out into the garden. Added to this, at the top of the house, there is a wonderful surprise with a double height studio room with French doors opening out onto a terrace, ideal as a studio room/ playroom.

Contact

Strutt & Parker, Knightsbridge 020 7235 9959; struttandparker.com

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ABSOLUTELY Property

Property Round Up Shirley Humphrey Director at Harrods Estates � 020 7225 6506; harrodsestates.com

Chelsea joins the Harrods Estates portfolio WE ARE delighted to introduce Chelsea to the Harrods Estates portfolio. We provide a high quality VIP service to our clients, offering them the best homes in the best locations, and we found that an increasing number of our clients were interested in Chelsea, so it made sense for us to establish our new office on the Fulham Road. Chelsea has been regarded as a sophisticated and pleasant place to live for over 300 years, with aristocracy, nobility and more recently, celebrities, business moguls and wealthy families choosing to call Chelsea their home. We are delighted to be at the hub of this exciting area.

D&G appoints a new executive director: Ed Mead

Breteuil’s

Launch Party � 020 75316308; breteuil.co.uk

FOLLOWING our launch party on 24th January, we’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone who attended and made it such a special evening. It was fantastic to see so many people there, with a great mix of old and new faces. We’d also like to say a big thank you to Katie at Parson’s Creative who supplied a fabulous selection of French themed canapés, which were washed down with a healthy amount of fizz. It was a great start for Breteuil and we very much look forward to becoming an established part of the Chelsea community.

Presenting your property for letting

WITH an abundance of rental property currently on the market, it is even more important to present your property at its best. We see a real trend of well presented properties achieving higher rental values and incurring shorter void periods. Neutral decoration throughout is important and modern kitchens and bathrooms always sell. Making sure that properties are warm and well lit helps to create a good impression for viewings. Dressing a property to let can seem like an unnecessary expense, but may help prospective tenants to visualise where their furniture will fit as well as making the most of bland or difficult spaces. � Clova Robertson, Lettings Manager at Jackson Stops & Staff, Chelsea 020 7581 8431; jackson-stops.co.uk

AFTER more than 20 years successfully running Douglas & Gordon’s Chelsea office, Ed Mead is moving to a new role as Executive Director based at their head office in Warwick Square. Whilst still being available to all Douglas & Gordon’s sales managers, Mead’s new role will focus on expanding the company’s horizons and coverage of London. He will also continue to act as Douglas & Gordon’s main spokesperson, spearheading their ongoing PR and will take advantage of new detailed localised research coming out of their asset management division this year. Douglas & Gordon will continue to be run by their Chairman Michael Hodgson, Mead as Executive Director, George Franks as Head of Sales and Virginia Skilbeck as Head of Lettings. The company’s successful year shows that this team is well placed to continue proving that estate agents can be successful by providing a service and not always chasing profit. Proven operator and Associate Director Caroline Anderson has moved from running their South Kensington offices to Mead’s old chair in Sloane Avenue. � 020 7963 4600; douglasandgordon.com

Spotlight on SW3 Average asking price - £3,763,918Average asking rents - £5,367 pcmAverage property value - £2,001,267

Data provided by 118

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OFFICES THROUGHOUT SOUTH WEST LONDON clapham south

balham

battersea

clapham north

020 8673 6111

020 7801 3400

020 7840 3700

020 8675 1222

fulham central

fulham south 020 7736 6110

furzedown

tooting

020 7381 7381

020 8769 7900

Hamble Street, SW6

020 8772 7080

£1,595,000

A magnificent and completely redesigned, four bedroom, two bathroom, family home presenting bespoke and calm interior design over three floors. Having completed the side return extension, the kitchen is a stand out feature on the ground floor, accompanied by a chic double reception room. The glass bi-folding doors at the rear of the property open up to a beautiful double-tiered, south-west facing patio garden. • • • •

Under floor heating Range cooker Bespoke interior design Located close to prestigious schools

aspire fulham south 020 7736 6110 fulham@aspire.co.uk

SOUTH WEST LONDON’S LEADING ESTATE AGENT

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.co.uk

19/02/2014 15:18

OFFICES THROUGHOUT SOUTH WEST LONDON clapham south

balham

battersea

clapham north

020 8673 6111

020 7801 3400

020 7840 3700

020 8675 1222

fulham central

fulham south

tooting

020 7381 7381

020 7736 6110

furzedown 020 8769 7900

Dawes Road, SW6

020 8772 7080

£850,000

Fully extended and cosmetically presented to a very high standard, is this fantastic two bedroom, ground floor property. The current layout boasts an open plan kitchen and reception room, space saving, bespoke storage units, wooden/ glass bi-folding doors, a rear, private patio terrace, a stylish family bathroom, a large double bedroom and a further double bedroom/reception room. • • • •

Fully functioning fire place Separate utility area Basement Transport links close by

aspire fulham central 020 7381 7381 c.fulham@aspire.co.uk

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Imperial Wharf, SW6

£650pw

A fabulous two bedroom apartment based on the sixth floor of this particular block in Imperial Wharf. The apartment itself comprises of a large, spacious reception room with wooden floors, leading to both a separate modern kitchen and the apartments private balcony, two large, carpeted double bedrooms and two separate bathrooms. • 24 hour concierge service • Direct access to Imperial Wharf’s amenities • Secure apartment building • Private Balcony

aspire fulham south 020 7736 6110 fulham@aspire.co.uk

SOUTH WEST LONDON’S LEADING ESTATE AGENT

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.co.uk

19/02/2014 15:18

Offices throughout London

Greyhound Road, W6

£725,000 Leasehold

Claxton Grove, W6

£700,000 Leasehold

This exceptional two double bedroom garden flat is located in the extremely sought after Greyhound Road. This excellent sized property comprises of a lovely family kitchen, superb wooden flooring, two double bedrooms and a great size garden. Located close to Fulham Palace Road and Hammersmith Broadway. EPC=C

We are delighted to offer this exceptional two double bedroom split level flat within the much sought after Claxton Grove. Property comprises of two double bedrooms, two bathrooms, separate kitchen and a lovely airy living room. Perfect for local amenities and transport.EPC=D

Fulham Office  020 7731 9680 fulham@bushells.com

Rosaline Road, SW6

New Kings Road, SW6

£635,000 Leasehold

£650,000 Leasehold

An attractive period conversion flat well located in this increasingly sought after location. The flat comprises of a lovely open plan kitchen dining area, two double bedrooms, two bathrooms and outside space. Perfectly located for the amenities in the Munster village area. EPC=C

A lovely two bedroom lion house period conversion on the extremely sought after New Kings Road. Property comprises of two bedrooms, bathroom, Shared garden and good condition. Perfect location with a wide selection of boutique shops and pavement cafes of the picturesque Parsons Green. EPC=D

Fulham Office 020 7731 9680| fulham@bushells.com

Fulham Office  020 7731 9680 fulham@bushells.com

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

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bushells.com

Watermans Quay, SW6

£750,000 Leasehold

An attractive two bed apartment in an extremely sought after location. This apartment offers stunning views over the River Thames and convenient access to local amenities of Wandsworth Bridge Road and just a short walk from Imperial Wharf. Situated on the first floor of a popular riverside development, this well proportioned apartment would make an ideal pied-à-terre or investment. EPC=B

Fulham Office 020 7731 9680 fulham@bushells.com

PART OF THE EDMUND CUDE GROUP

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

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Imperial Wharf

ÂŁ1,950 pw + Fees Furnished

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To arrange a viewing or for more information call

020 7319 9783

Imperial Wharf

£320 pw + Fees Furnished

London’s Letting Agency

info@brlets.co.uk www.brlets.co.uk

Wandsworth

£450 pw + Fees Furnished

1 Bedroom | 1 Reception | 1 Bathroom 24hr Concierge | Amenities Closeby | EPC - D Imperial Wharf 020 7348 7620 iw@brlets.co.uk

Imperial Wharf

Knightsbridge

£695 pw + Fees Furnished

iw@brlets.co.uk

£1,450 pw + Fees Furnished

Dubai | Hong Kong | India | Malaysia | Singapore

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ABSOLUTELY Property

Ask the Lettings Experts Our panel of professionals give you the edge in the property market

ORGANISING repairs and maintenance is a vital part of the role of a property management agent, ensuring your property is well maintained and keeping your tenant happy. They’ll collect the rent and chase late payments, but even more importantly, they’ll ensure you comply with lettings regulations, and thereby avoid fines for inadvertently breaking the law. As a qualified lawyer, this is my area of expertise so I know the easily avoidable pitfalls that can trip up even the most experienced landlords. Don’t forget this vital fact if you’re planning to attract a corporate tenant: 95% of companies insist that their executives rent a professionally managed property.

2. Short-term or long-term tenants? SHORT TERM lettings can be tempting, they can offer as much as a 50% increase on the average long let rate and even more in the prime summer season – we once got £55,000 per week on a four bedroom property in Knightsbridge. The flip side is that you can run the risk of long void periods and above average wear and tear, along with the increasing danger of subletting. If you are in a central area where demand for short lets is consistent and you have a good property manager it can be very lucrative, but most landlords prefer a longer, steadier let, with rent coming in all year from a known, named tenant. The best way forward is to discuss your options with your agent.

3. Rental yield vs. capital growth? AS PART of a recent Market Appraisal for a house in Chelsea, Maskells Research reviewed the property price increase and rental yields in Hans Ward. We established that property prices in this area had increased by over 30% since 2011. We also found that rental yields had fallen to approx. 2.4% gross. Landlords have tried to increase rents in line with house price inflation but tenants have pushed back and since 2011 we have seen an increasing divergence in rental price asked versus price achieved. The Total Return (rental income plus capital growth) from buy to let in prime Kensington & Chelsea remains attractive, but for those seeking a higher source of income, rather than capital growth, there are other investments which may be more suitable.

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Short term lettings can offer as much as a 50% increase on the average long let rate

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1. Why should I use a property management agent?

4. Best buy-to-let investments?

for properties between £5k - £10k per week as so many company budgets for tenancies have been cut. A three or four bedroom house or flat (lateral is very popular this year) at around £1500pw £2500pw would make a safe bet for any investor.

5. Furnished vs. unfurnished?

THIS IS hugely dependent on the specific area, as London is an amalgamation of so many markets. In SW3 my recommendation to any buy-to-let investor would be a three or four bedroom house in a nice street or a ‘mansion’ flat such as those found in Sloane Court West where we have just let a lovely three bedroom property for a straight two and a half year contract, within just a couple of weeks of the purchase being completed by our Sales team. We have seen a dip in enquiries

LANDLORDS often ask us whether their property should be let furnished or unfurnished. The answer is to be as flexible as you can be in order to appeal to as many tenants as possible. The majority of large family houses will be rented out unfurnished. However, being able to offer furniture may set you apart from the competition. Having your property dressed may also help to achieve a quicker rental, showing how spaces can be maximised and helping prospective tenants to buy into a certain type of ‘lifestyle’.

1. Simran Prasad

2. Karen Boland

3. Peter Herman-Taylor,

Benham & Reeves Residential Lettings Director of Property Management

Lettings Director, Harrods Estates

Managing Director, Maskells

� 020 7225 6602 • harrodsestates.com

� 020 7581 2216 • maskells.co.uk

� 020 7319 9740 • brlets.co.uk

4. Alice Umfreville

5. Clova Robertson

Head of Lettings, Strutt & Parker

Lettings Manager, Jackson-Stops & Staff

� 020 7589 9966; struttandparker.com

� 020 7581 8431; jackson-stops.co.uk

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ABSOLUTELY Property

Spencer Park INTRODUCING

Designed by Chassey & Last Architects, these four magnificent homes redefine exclusive living, each a masterpiece of classical and contemporary elegance.

ach house offers over 4,600 sq ft of brilliantly proportioned living space with generous ceiling heights and finishes specified by international interior design consultants The London Furnishing Co. The bespoke specification and home technology are exacting and implemented to reflect the aspirations of the most discerning home owner, family and guests. Each house has a master suite, four family bedrooms and an en-suite guest bedroom. The master suite occupies the entire second floor level, providing around 740 sq ft of refined luxury, extensive dressing area and spa bathroom with free standing bath and walk in shower. Outside each house are several off-street parking spaces - inside the properties provide outstanding living, reception and entertaining spaces and beautifully appointed kitchen/dining rooms all with access to a terrace and the substantial garden beyond. Each of the gardens has private gated access into the beautiful Spencer Park - a tranquil haven of almost four acres, exclusively for residents use and providing a safe sanctuary in which children can play. It has its own tennis court, playground and rose gardens, and also provides an ideal retreat for residents’ private yearly celebrations.

Asquith Villas are very well placed for travel across central London & beyond from nearby Clapham Junction which is within half a mile, while Clapham South provides Northern Line connections to the Capital’s entire tube network. The houses also enjoy close proximity and easy access to some of the Capital’s finest primary and secondary schools. Austin Thorogood, Director of John Thorogood, comments: ‘Spencer Park is a special privilege afforded to very few and is one of the finest and most closely guarded green spaces south of The River. These magnificent homes therefore represent an incredibly rare opportunity for a radically changed lifestyle without leaving London.”

Asquith, Spencer Park, SW4 Villas 1 & 3 - £4.95m • Villa 2 - Sale Agreed Villa 4 - Not Yet Released

Joint Sole Agents

John Thorogood, 020 7228 7474; austin@john-thorogood.co.uk Savills, 020 8877 1222; rchatwin@savills.com

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EXCLUSIVE, HD FILMS FOR EVERY PROPERTY

@JTEstateAgents

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

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Asquith Villas, Spencer Park, SW18

FOR SALE

Guide Price for Villas 1, 2 & 3 - £4.95m | FREEHOLD (Villa 4 not yet released) - Joint Sole Agents - Savills One of four exceptional new homes that combine a ‘state of the art’ ﬁnish with a classical and contemporary exterior in one of the most exclusive locations south of the River. Each offers approximately 4600 square feet of reﬁned family living space, private gated parking, a large landscaped garden and direct access into glorious Spencer Park, (just under four acres of privately owned and managed parkland). • Access to Spencer Park (3.8 acre private park) • Gated Off-Street Parking • Drawing Room • Study • Kitchen/Dining Room • Family/Media/Games Room • Utility Room

EXCLUSIVE, HD FILMS FOR EVERY PROPERTY

• Cloakroom/WC • Plant Room • 6 Double Bedrooms • Dressing Room • 5 Bathrooms (4 En Suite) • Large Garden • 3 Terraces

@JTEstateAgents I N N O VA T I O N

SINCE 1991 INTEGRITY

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Sacrifice never tasted sweeter.

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jackson-stops.co.uk

Queensdale Place, W11 A three storey Victorian house located in a no-through road in Holland Park. The property offers three double bedrooms, two bathrooms, double reception room, kitchen, garden and roof terrace. EPC = D

ÂŁ2,900,000 Freehold

AB55078

People Property Places Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional offices JSS_CHELS_MARCH.indd 1

Holland Park

020 7727 5111

holland.park@jackson-stops.co.uk

18/02/2014 17:08

Lennox Gardens, SW1X A three bedroom garden flat in Chelsea. The property offers 391 sq ft of living space and comprises drawing room, 3 bedrooms, bathroom en-suite, shower room, dining room, kitchen, hallway, parquet floors; caretaker. EPC = C

ÂŁ2,000,000 Share of Freehold

AB54760

People Property Places Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional offices JSS_CHELS_MARCH.indd 2

Chelsea

020 7581 5881 chelsea@jackson-stops.co.uk

18/02/2014 17:09

Sales

ÂŁ2,250,000 Leasehold Cheyne Gardens SW3

A three bedroom, ground floor 1,398 sq.ft. maisonette with a terrace and garden in an historic period building between the King's Road and The River Thames.

Master bedroom with en-suite shower room, Second bedroom, Bathroom, Reception room, Kitchen/breakfast room, Study, Communal garden, Lift, Porter, EPC: D.

A beautifully presented first floor flat on this prestigious garden square which includes a grand south-facing reception room with period features, a balcony and large mezzanine study area.

Master bedroom, Second bedroom with en-suite shower room, Shower room, Reception room, Kitchen, Cloakroom, Mezzanine level with bathroom, 2 balconies, EPC: C.

Chelsea Sales 020 7225 1225 | chelseasales@dng.co.uk

ÂŁ2,200,000 Leasehold Bramham Gardens SW5 Kensington Gate Sales 020 7581 1152 | kengatesales@dng.co.uk

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Sales

douglasandgordon.com

ÂŁ1,750,000 Share of Freehold Courtfield Gardens SW5

A beautifully refurbished and spacious two bedroom flat within an attractive period building benefiting from high ceilings throughout and access to the communal gardens.

Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, Second bedroom with en-suite bathroom, Reception room, Kitchen/breakfast room, Dining room, 2 patios, Communal gardens, EPC: D.

In one of London's best addresses, a wellproportioned and recently refurbished two bedroom flat on the lower ground floor of this elegant period building.

2 bedrooms, Bathroom, Shower room, Reception room, Kitchen, Communal garden, Resident caretaker, EPC: D.

Kensington Gate Sales 020 7581 1152 | kengatesales@dng.co.uk

ÂŁ1,475,000 Share of Freehold Lennox Gardens SW1X Chelsea Sales 020 7225 1225 | chelseasales@dng.co.uk

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Sales

ÂŁ1,250,000 Share of Freehold Warwick Square SW1V

A fabulous two bedroom garden flat of approximately 1,150 sq.ft. located on the highly sought-after Warwick Square.

Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, Second bedroom/dining room, Reception room, Kitchen/ breakfast room, Patio, Cloakroom and utility room, EPC: B.

A superbly presented four bedroom house offering 1,457 sq.ft. of living space, with a large cellar and a professionally designed garden.

4 double bedrooms, Bathroom, Shower room, Double reception room, Kitchen/breakfast room, Garden, Cellar, EPC: D.

Pimlico & Westminster Sales 020 7931 8200 | pimlicosales@dng.co.uk

ÂŁ1,175,000 Freehold Biscay Road W6 Fulham Sales 020 7731 4391 | fulhamsales@dng.co.uk

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Lettings

douglasandgordon.com

£3,750 per week Furnished/Unfurnished Markham Square SW3

A stunning four bedroom family house which has been refurbished to a very high standard. The property has a self contained one bedroom area which would be ideal for a nanny or guests.

4 bedrooms, 4 en-suite bathrooms/shower rooms, Reception room, Kitchen/breakfast room/dining area, TV room/playroom, Kitchenette, Study, Garden, Communal gardens, EPC: C.

A spacious, quiet and contemporary mews house located in the heart of South Kensington.

2 double bedrooms, Bathroom, Reception room, Kitchen, Cloakroom, EPC: D.

Chelsea Lettings 020 7581 6666 | chelsealets@dng.co.uk

£875 per week Unfurnished Courtfield Mews SW5 Kensington Gate Lettings 020 7589 5252 | kengatelets@dng.co.uk

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

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Lettings

ÂŁ675 per week Furnished Grenville Place SW7

An architecturally designed, loft style split-level apartment in this sought-after location a stone's throw from Gloucester Road Underground.

Master bedroom with dressing room, Second bedroom/study, Bathroom, Reception/dining room, Kitchen, EPC: D.

A wonderful opportunity to rent this three bedroom cottage, located in the heart of Munster Village.

3 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en-suite shower room), Double reception room, Kitchen, Patio garden, EPC: D.

Kensington Gate Lettings 020 7589 5252 | kengatelets@dng.co.uk

ÂŁ595 per week Unfurnished Orbain Road SW6 Fulham Lettings 020 7731 4791 | fulhamlets@dng.co.uk

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Douglas & Gordon only advertise 90% of their property

Amazingly, over 10% of our properties are sold or let without being advertised. Some transactions happen so quickly we do not have time to advertise. In other cases our clients ask us to sell or let their property discretely. We source property specifically to fulfil our buyersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; needs â&#x20AC;&#x201C; with the perfect solution sometimes being a property that has not even reached the market. To make sure you are getting the full picture, register with Douglas & Gordon now.

douglasandgordon.com

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