Abs Chelsea Sep 12

ABSOLUTELY

SEPTEMBER 2012 £3.95

Chelsea

ANTHONY ANDREWS

FROM BRIDESHEAD TO BULLY BOY

10

FASHION DESIGNERS TO WATCH

SHAKEN, NOT STIRRED

TERRY O'NEILL CAPTURES 50 YEARS OF BOND

ROTH OF THE TITANS V&A DIRECTOR MARTIN ROTH ON A YEAR AT THE TOP

Scarlet fever RICH PICKINGS AT NO. 11 CADOGAN

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32 Beauchamp 32 Beauchamp Place Place / London / London / SW3 / SW3 1NU 1NU / T: / 0800 T: 0800 953953 5843 5843 / +44 / +44 (0)20 (0)20 3283 3283 8943 8943 / fitriani.com / fitriani.com A JMH A JMH Lifestyle Lifestyle Group Group Company Company

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Summer is here and it is time to have some fun with our fabulous new collection.

THE BEACH ROCKS COLLECTION

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ABSOLUTELY SEPTEMBER 2012

CONTENTS 7

EDITOR’S LETTER

29

WHAT’S ON

ABSOLUTELY LOVES

32

KING OF THE ROCK

CLOSET CONFIDENTIAL

33

STYLE 8 11

ARTS AND CULTURE

Absolutely’s top ten this month

All hail Baroque style

13

FASHION NOTES

14

A GIRL NAMED MARIA

Prim polka dots, plus Paul Costelloe Q&A with Maria Grachvogel

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Our local culture diary

Introducing novelist Thomas Mogford

CULTURE FLASH This month’s highlights

FOR YOUR EYES ONLY

NORMAN CONQUESTS

Russell Norman, Polpo proprietor

CARRY ON GLAMPING

CLASS ACT

89

VIVA MEXICO

25

ABSOLUTELY SOCIAL

INTERIORS

34

TO THE MANOR BORN

67

46

BRIGHT YOUNG THINGS

68

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84

55

10 new designers to watch

FOOD & TRAVEL

A GOOD YEAR

BEAUTY CONFIDENTIAL

Sixties glam at No.11 Cadogan

A sneak peek at Open House Weekend

ESCAPE

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Seeing and being seen...

BEHIND CLOSED DOORS

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BEAUTY FLASH

Beauty news and tips

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A brief encounter with Katherine Pooley

RESTAURANT REVIEWS

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Absolutely’s best beauty buys of the month

DIARY OF A DESIGNER

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Fifty years of Bond at Proud Chelsea

PEOPLE 42

70

Martin Roth discusses his first year as director of the V&A Anthony Andrews takes to new St James Theatre stage in Bully Boy

DECORATIVE DELIGHTS

Eight of the best... Art Deco pieces

INTERIOR INSPIRATION Gemma Billington’s picks of the month

Zia Teresa and Casa Brindisa

We check in at Hell Bay, Scilly Isles The best luxe camping accomodation Five star heaven in Cancun

PROPERTY 106 IN THEIR OWN WORDS Andrew Everill and Polo

114 MOVING IN

Agents give us the local lowdown

118 PRIME PURCHASE

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ABSOLUTELY Chelsea

EDITORINCHIEF Harriet Compston EDITOR Nancy Alsop TRAVEL EDITOR Priscilla Pollara SUBEDITOR Katy Jarratt EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Katie Randall CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Paul Costelloe, Marissa Montgomery ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Charlie Tiptaft ADVERTISING ACCOUNT MANAGER Amelia Purnell BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR Greg Cole GROUP PROPERTY DIRECTOR Alexandra Hunter CENTRAL PROPERTY MANAGER Anna Hutton-Potts HEAD OF DESIGN Ray Searle SENIOR DESIGNER Stewart Hyde MIDWEIGHT DESIGNER Gemma Isteed DESIGNERS Andrew Mavin, Ana Ospina, Jaqui Palmer PRODUCTION ASSISTANT Lauren Giles FINANCE DIRECTOR Alexandra Hvid MARKETING MANAGER Jessica Batten DIRECTOR Greg Hughes MANAGING DIRECTOR Sherif Shaltout For editorial enquiries please email: editorial@zest-media.com For advertising enquiries please call 020 7704 0588 or email: advertising@zest-media.com Subscriptions are available simply by emailing subscriptions@zest-media.com.

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Please email us with your preferred option and details.

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EDITOR’S LETTER SEPTEMBER 2012

W

ith September’s arrival comes the inevitable accompanying back-to-school feeling.

Buckets and spades are packed off to the garage once more and the nip creeping stealthily into the air gently nudges you to rediscover your warmer togs. And so it is just as well that in time for the seasonal shift, the world’s leading designers throng to London to strut their elegantly waisted stuff for the everfabulous fashion week...

One man who knows everything worth knowing about style is Martin Roth, director of the V&A. In post for the past 12 months, he talks to us about the challenges and excitements of running one of London’s longest serving and best loved institutions. Turn to p.42 for Henry Barlow’s report card on his first year.

Another man who elegantly combines both style and substance is one of Britain’s best-loved actors, Anthony Andrews. I caught up with him about his demanding role in Bully Boy, the debut play at the new St James Theatre by Sandi Toksvig, which explores the impact of combat stress on soldiers in modern day warfare. It’s a long way from Brideshead, but the ever erudite and charming Andrews sees it all as a privilege (p.55).

Elsewhere, Romy van den Broeke rounds up ten hot new names in fashion (p.46), we sneak a peek at the new Terry O’Neill James Bond exhibition at Proud Chelsea (p.51), plus we poke our noses behind the doors at Open House (p.72).

I do hope you enjoy this issue.

ON THE COVER: Red and white shirt, £300; burgundy textured velvet jacket, £1,400, both by Billionaire Couture; burgundy dome hat, £694.30, by Georgia Harding at Wolf and Badger; Zuni antique choker, £349, by Jessie Western

Nancy Alsop Editor FIND US ON FACEBOOK ‘ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES’ AND TWITTER ‘ABSOLUTELY_MAGS’

CONTRIBUTORS

CLEMENTINE KING Clemmie is a freelance fashion stylist, and has spent the past two years working with a host of photographers and glossy titles. She styled the fabulous shoot for this issue, which was inspired by current catwalk looks intertwined with atmospheric 1960s nostalgia.

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MARISSA MONTGOMERY Marissa is the founder of lingerie company Pussy Glamore. She studied for her English and drama degree at Goldsmiths in London, but these days she is our girl in New York, reporting back on the socialite and fashion scene across the pond for Absolutely Chelsea.

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PRINCESS DIANA WALLPAPER

The much-photographed Princess Diana commanded a legion of loyal fans during her lifetime, who keenly followed her every sartorial move. We’re loving the Julie Verhoeven-illustrated Lady Di-inspired wallpaper on display at the Kensington Palace ‘Diana: Glimpses of a Modern Princess’ exhibition, which traces her transformation from shy, flouncily-attired 19-year old to the sleek clotheshorse she would become. hrp.org.uk/kensingtonpalace

10 things we

Absolutely LOVE

GRAHAM AND GREEN AUTUMN/ WINTER COLLECTION

It’s that time again when our brains start to engage with the reality of back-to-school and secretly, we actually quite like the first time we have to don our overcoats once more. In that vein, we adore Graham and Green’s new autumn collection with its hot pinks and muted tones. LOVE. grahamandgreen.co.uk

MIU MIU GLITTER MARY-JANES

We always go giddy for a Mary-Jane, so imagine our delight at clapping our eyes on these Miu Miu beauties. Ordinarily we aren’t so down with such a glut of cabaret style glitter, but frankly Miuccia can do little wrong. Carrie Bradshaw would be beside herself. £400; miumiu.com

LINLEY COLLABORATIONS

Viscount Linley – that most tasteful of royals – is this month set to show us just what happens when he puts his head together with other creative types. The first two in his new series of collaborations, which champion modern British craftsmanship, are with the deliciously disparate Rolf Sachs and Alex Hull.

We’re loving the Linley/Sachs Q-UBES collection, a playful take on building blocks. davidlinley.com 8

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STYLE 60 YEARS OF BO CONCEPT

Forget the Jubilee; 2012 is all about marking 60 years of BoConcept furniture and design stores. To celebrate, the company has released a new and fabulous catalogue, and, if it takes your fancy, will send its designers to do a home consultation. What’s not to like? Available at harrods.com

THEO FENNELL KING’S ROAD RAILINGS APPLICATION

TEA AT SKETCH GLADE ROOM

Sketch has always been an attention grabber (see the future-as-envisioned-by-Kubrick style loos, or the Michelin-starred, Marie Antoinette-meets-comic-book Library and Lecture room). Our latest crush is its new Glade Room, a woodland-inspired, Alice in Wonderland-reminiscent, enchanted forest Wonderland in which to devour the all-new teas. Think marshmallows, hot pink macarons and dainty cakes. And if you’re anything like us, you won’t be saying no to the optional champagne. sketch.uk.com

If, like us, you really, really love Chelsea, you can now quite literally wear your heart on your sleeve with this Theo Fennelldesigned 18ct yellow gold, enamel and diamond cuff. Quel homage.

POA; theofennell.com

OPI NEON MINI PACK

Rain, rain, brief spell of sunshine, then rain again. We’re over waiting for the weather to pull its socks up, and are instead going to brighten up our lives with this mini-pack from OPI. The vivid collection includes a neon orange, a fluorescent purple and a bright pink. Take that meteorology. opi.com

SAMANTHA MORRIS MONEY BOXES We have gone silly for Samantha Morris’ tongue-in-cheek gift collections, from her take on blue plaques to these Chanel/ Louboutin fund money boxes.

Quite the most fun way to pinch your pennies – and so much prettier than porcelain pigs. £14; samanthamorris.co.uk

GRAHAM RUST WATERCOLOURS

Mary the neglected contrarian, the Bath chair-bound sickly Colin, the fierce Mrs Medlock, Dicken the gentle gardener, the terrifying Miss Minchin and the fortunefluctuating Sara… the protagonists of Frances Hodgson Burnett’s Secret Garden and A Little Princess are amongst some of our favourite childhood characters.

Which is why we can’t wait for 100 original Graham Rust illustrations to be exhibited at St.Wilfred’s Hall at the Brompton Oratory. Even better, proceeds will go to Sightsavers’ work in India to prevent blindness and restore sight. 3 October, Brompton Oratory, SW7; grahamrust-murals.com 9

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PLOUM SETTEE designed for your pleasure

EX SHOWROOM DISPLAYS UP TO 30% OFF

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STYLE

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LANVIN A/W/12-13

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Baroque and roll

Gothic, edgy and opulence incarnate, if it ain’t Baroque, don’t fix it

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1. ALEXANDER MCQUEEN Victorian puckering wool jacquard dress, £885; alexandermcqueen.co.uk 2. CALLY Baroque print leggings, £10; boohoo.com 3. DOLCE & GABBANA Mini Miss Sicily embroidered velvet bag, £1544.60; luisaviaroma.com 4. ETRO Embroidered loafer, £360.41; luisaviaroma.com 5. MARNI Printed wool crepe cropped trouser, £530; marni.com 6. WILBUR & GUSSIE Edith bronze lace clutch, £169; arkangelandfelon.com 7. NEW LOOK Parisian black and gold leaf jacquard shorts, £17.99; newlook.com 8. DOLCE & GABBANA Tapestry ankle boots, £475; net-a-porter.com 9. VERSACE Embroidered coat, £3,010; versace.com 10. ALEXANDER MCQUEEN Mantaray clutch, £315; matchesfashion.com 11

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STYLE CLOSE KNIT

Eric Bompard – the long-hailed Parisian master producer of cashmere – this month launches its latest range of separates, loungewear and accessories.

Expect a giddy variety of knit gauges, embellishments and vintage influence – we’re loving the deliberate, buttoned-up primness of the spotty twinsets…

Eric Bompard, 29 King’s Road, SW3; eric-bompard.com

Costelloe confidential Gearing up to London Fashion Week

I

didn’t think it could get any better, but what a month! With London still brimming over from the Jubilee, the Olympics were the icing on the cake.

My prize goes to the Queen herself, who was the best dressed of all the royal family. Congratulations go to her designer Angela Kelly who did an outstanding job, particularly for the river pageant. Then the Olympics – I even got to quite like the colour scheme of the volunteers’ uniforms.

Well done to Addidas, it really worked, and as the chairman of British Airways said to me when I was working on their new uniform: ‘You must know a British Airways staff member from 40 metres. That’s the sign of a successful uniform.’

Now one must ask: how can London Fashion Week top that? From what I hear it is going to be a great week – I predict it will be a very romantic season. With this in mind boys, look out for my new season, traditional grey flannel suit available at all John Lewis and House of Fraser menswear departments. Worn with a crisp white shirt, it’s the perfect alternative to navy or black.

With all the drama of the last few weeks, I need a break before I head off to Chicago for the Ryder Cup. Dressing the wives and partners of the European team has always been a pleasure. Jose Maria Olazabal will be the 23rd golfer to captain the European Ryder Cup team against the United States.

Good luck to all the players, but in the style stakes, we will win hands down! Wishing you all a happy return to ‘normal life’! paulcostelloe.com Follow Paul on Twitter @PaulcostelloeUK

FASHION NOTES GOTHIC GLAMOUR

We adore Ross X Bute’s King’s Road store, and now, just in time for AW/12, the label’s new creative director Madeleine Press has channelled the dark side. The gothic fairytaleinspired collection is all about French lace and sultry tones. Think Morticia Addams chic – minus the homicide. rossandbute.com

BOUTIQUE-IN-BRIEF INTIMISSIMI, 56 KINGS ROAD, LONDON SW3; INTIMISSIMI.COM THE IDEA: This chic lingerie boutique started life in 1996 in Italy; since then it has expanded globally and exponentially. Its purpose? To bring luxefeeling underwear to the mainstream.

THE USP: What makes it special is the constant updating

ROCK OUT

A taste of Italian bling comes to Knightsbridge this month as Marco Bicego launches at Harrods. We love his signature hand-twisted designs – and this season’s collection is all about raw sapphires. Love. harrods.com of styles – this is a boutique with its eye firmly on the catwalks – coupled with the idea that underwear should be as much a part of the outfit as any other constituent part. Much of it could be worn as layered outwear…

THE BUY: Too much to mention – from utilitarian vests and briefs to exquisitely pretty bras. We’re loving the AW/12 ‘Nero’ collection, which roundly proves that leather is not just for bikers…

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A girl named

Maria Katie Randall meets design maven and creative powerhouse Maria Grachvogel

You are a self-taught designer and pattern maker. What first drew you to fashion?

I always loved to paint and draw and had a wild imagination. My fascination with fashion started around eight years old. I remember taking out those wonderful coffee table Vogue books from the school library almost on permanent loan and literally examining every detail in the photos, completely bewitched by the beauty and craft of fashion. I started to cut and make clothes myself around 12 years old and I then became fascinated by how clothing can completely transform and empower. I started experimenting with my own cutting techniques, which have grown and evolved over the years but my passion and fascination continues to be creating beautiful pieces that make a woman feel totally amazing.

You launched your eponymous brand aged just 18. Were you always so determined?

I was lucky enough to know what I wanted to do from a very young age and I think having that focus and passion somehow carved a path for me and has continued to throughout my career. The best part about running your own brand is that there is always something new to learn. When the going gets tough, I try to think about it as an opportunity to 14

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learn something new. I have grown so much as a person as well as a designer and always, fundamentally, I remember that I create for the customer and this has kept me grounded as it is my purpose. My greatest joy comes from observing the moment when a woman tries on one of my pieces for the first time.

I love to see the transformation that occurs in how she feels about herself and how everything about her oozes self-confidence.

You recently moved to a Culford Gardens townhouse. Tell us more…

It was always my dream to have my design studio above my store, so when this wonderful space became available, so close to my old store, it seemed like a dream come true.

The store itself is a little larger than my previous space and I took the opportunity to create something very different to our old store. I have used my artwork prints to create furniture and wall coverings and we also created a trouser bar to house our now legendary collection of trouser cuts. Upstairs, we have two levels, an open plan studio with a pitched roof and loads of natural light, which has enabled me to expand my team, and I have a small private mezzanine office which again is filled with light. It is heavenly.

CREDIT: PAUL RAESIDE

STYLE

Tell us about your new season collection…

This season my woman is lean, modern and cool. The lines are much cleaner and more architectural both in the cutting techniques and through the print. I am also playing with sculptural pleats and contrasting textures.

You’ve designed for countless celebrities.

Is there anyone who you’d still particularly love to see in your clothes?

I love for a woman to discover the collection – to watch her inner goddess unfold as she tries on different pieces. Typically therefore, a celebrity will discover my collection and it’s at that point that I start thinking about what will work for her. I try to inhabit the character of the woman as well as the body shape and because I have tried every piece I create on my own body, I usually get a strong feeling of which pieces will work best. I was recently asked to put a selection together for Kelly Rowland. She wore one from the archive, ‘The Rainbow Phoenix’, for her Summer Dreaming video.

Whose style do you admire?

I love strong, confident women like Katherine Hepburn and Coco Chanel, who dressed for themselves and challenged the fashions of the time. There are many women I admire now who also have that strong sense of their own style; Tilda Swinton and Yasmin Le Bon always look incredible.

What is your proudest moment?

I have had so many wonderful moments over the years. From the new mum who was almost in tears when she visited our store as she had tried everywhere to find an outfit that made her feel good with her post-baby body, to the actress who desperately needed a dress for a premiere and all the samples she had been sent would not fit her curvy body.

What lies in the future for Maria Grachvogel?

Last year was amazing; we moved our London flagship to a wonderful new townhouse and opened our first store in Singapore. I want to continue to expand distribution internationally, working with the best retail partners, so from this season you can also find the collection in Harvey Nichols London and Edinburgh. I’d also love to explore taking my artwork prints into other product areas as I love painting them so much. mariagrachvogel.com 15

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ABSOLUTELY PROMOTION

Locks of love George Vallossian’s exclusive eponymous Knightsbridge salon has a loyal following amongst the great and the glamorous

E

ponymous boutique salon George Vallossian Hair and Beauty is something of a gem in the already well-heeled and groomed Knightsbridge. Born of founder George Vallossian’s simple vision to create a salon that would be a tranquil haven for clients, its raft of specialist staff exudes a calm professionalism and proficiency at all times. With this in mind, the man behind the plan has plenty to be proud of. Positioned between Harrods and Sloane Street, since its opening, the salon has – magnet-like – garnered a large and loyal following amongst the area’s coiffed and manicured denizens. And for those not living within stiletto-clacking distance, it

also makes an ideal pit stop for dedicated shoppers, drawn to the areas wealth of high end boutiques and department stores.

The parlour’s winning maxim is that each client should necessarily be greeted by accommodating and friendly staff.

From this happy start to proceedings, there are one-on-ones consultations, which ensure that each customer gets exactly what they want. It has followed that such attention to detail has deservedly led to international recognition and has drawn in a large celebrity following. And on top of its already evident successes, the salon also recently introduced digital and straight perms, an innovative new treatment which has ensured its position as the place for

permanent hair treatments. This cream of the hairdressing-crop will liven up limp locks via with treatments ranging from the classic cut and blow dry, to organic henna colour to Keratin bond hair extensions. The salon also provides a wide range of luxurious beauty treatments – from waxing and skin needling (collagen induction therapy) through to manicures and pedicures, lash extensions, spray tans and massages.

Prices range from £45 - £300 George Vallossian Hair And Beauty, 16 Beauchamp Place, Knighstbridge, SW3 020 7581 9754; 020 8127 6281 georgevallossian.com

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Absolutely’s products of the month

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7 9 1. SK-II CELLUMINATION ESSENCE EX, £226; harrods.com 2. KÉRASTASE ELIXIR ULTIME WITH MILLENIUM ROSE EXTRACT, £34.50; kerastase.co.uk 3. LALIQUE DE LALIQUE 20TH ANNIVERSARY EDT, £83; lalique-parfums.com 4. EVE LOM INTENSE HYDRATION SERUM, £75; evelom.com 5. EMMA HARDIE AMAZING FACE REJUVENATING NIGHT CREAM, £56; emmahardie.com 6. DIPTYQUE SATIN OIL FOR BODY AND HAIR, £35; diptyqueparis.com 7. THE ORGANIC PHARMACY CARROT BUTTER CLEANSER, £34.96; theorganicpharmacy.com 8. CARITA PROGRESSIF PERFECT SERUM TRIO OF GOLD, £228; carita.co.uk 9. WEI BEAUTY GOJI BERRY AGE DEFENSE SERUM, £60; uk.spacenk.com 10. ERNO LASZLO PHELITYL PRE-CLEANSING OIL, £49; harrods.com

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OUR ANNIVERSARY GIFT TO YOU

NEW COLLECTION OUT NOW

To celebrate our 60th Anniversary, we are giving all our customers a voucher worth 10% of your purchase.

See the New 2013 collection of Urban Danish Design in store or visit www.boconcept.co.uk.

Book your Free Design service now.

BoConcept Notting Hill · 18-24 Westbourne Grove · London · W2 5RH · 020 7792 4111 · notting-hill@boconcept.co.uk (5 min walk from Paddington Station) *See in store or online for details of our anniversary gift to you. Limited period.

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STYLE

Beauty Confidential Diving in at Chelsea’s Wyndam Grand, plus we get our mits on Benefit’s handy new travel-sized essentials

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OF THE BEST PRIMERS

Clarins Beauty Flash Balm Instant Radiance Booster, £28; clarins.co.uk

Guerlain Makeup Base-L`Or Radiance Concentrate, £42; houseoff raser.co.uk

ONLY BLUE

Chelsea Harbour’s Wyndham Grand this month hosts two open days for its Blue Harbour Spa, which has a spectacular 17m pool, a state-of-the-art sauna, a gym and treatment rooms. On offer on the day are prizes ranging from a month’s free membership to a mini makeover.

13 and 16 Sept; blueharbourspa.co.uk

HAVE MAKE-UP, WILL TRAVEL

Beauty leviathan Benefit this month launches ‘Instant Beauty’, a handy range of travel-sized essentials for busy lasses. In trademark fashion, cute playfulness is king, with kits titled things like: ‘How To Look The Best At Everything.’

And who are we to turn our noses up at such a promise? benefitcosmetics.com

TOWERING ABOVE

This month we’re loving the Jumeirah Carlton Spa’s Peak Health Club… the views over the Knightsbridge roof tops, the fluffiest of towels, the expert spa treatment, even a golf simulator.

But best of all, we love the 20m stainless steel swimming pool.

Heaven. jumeirah.com

SPA REVIEW: HARI’S SALON

Givenchy Acti’Mine Wake-up Skin Make-up Base, £25; debenhams.com

Skin specialist to the stars Debbie Thomas has practised at Harley Street and in L.A, but these days you can find her on the top floor of Hari’s Spa on the Brompton Road. I’m here to try a new luxury facial using SkinCeuticals, which aims to repair and strengthen skin while targeting areas of sensitivity. Forget frills and pan pipe music; this is the real deal. First up, my skin is cleansed with a gel peel, then a sucking and plumping micro-dermabrasion, after which red light therapy rejuvenates, ultra sonic therapy revives, and an application of antioxidant and a smothering of SPF protects. harissalon.com. By Amber Carter 19

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TRYOGA

Sweat and stretch, relax and rejuvenate at Triyoga. With London’s best teachers, it offers classes for all levels, as well as exquisite treatments (ranging from massage to facials), an organic café and a lifestyle shop. Try two weeks of unlimited yoga for just £20.

Triyoga Chelsea, 372 King’s Road, SW3 (at Beaufort Street); 020 7483 3344; triyoga.co.uk

Fix up, look sharp From yoga to intensive training, gorgeous locks to pampered digits, we guide you through how to look and feel great post holiday

VITA FIT FOR LIFE

Fancy a fresh challenge? Why not train like a top athlete to get back into shape after an indulgent summer? Take the smart approach to body sculpting with Vita’s high-energy reformer ‘Fitness Concentrate’ programme. Experience 10 days of time-efficient training and get exceptional results for just £55. Vita Fit for Life, 1a Ives Street, SW3; 02075842822; vitafitforlife.com

THE HAND AND FOOT SPA

The Hand and Foot Spa offers a wealth of treatments exclusively for your digits. Celebrating its fi rst anniversary this month, the specialist spa has already scooped the coveted Nail Salon of the Year 2012 award, which promises to spell the start of great things to come.

Treatments include the medical pedicure, the luxury spa manicure and the range of ‘Something Extra’ treatments.

The Hand and Foot Spa, 153 Fulham Road, SW3; 020 7589 1070; handandfootspa.co.uk

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ABSOLUTELY PROMOTION

DUO

Chelsea-based Duo offers a new and highly innovative health and fitness experience. Exclusive to its core, it is so named to reflect Duo’s guiding philosophy: that the winning and exclusive combination of just you plus your personal trainer, beauty therapist and health consultant will meticulously address all your requirements.

To book your complimentary trial session call 020 7352 5399

ERA HAIR & BEAUTY

Entrust your barnet to the very best in Fulham. Absolutely loves Era on Wandsworth Bridge Road; after all, having been in business for several years, the team is experienced and super friendly. But it is not just your tresses that can be pampered to perfection; Era also has a full menu of beauty treatments. If that was not enough, the salon is also offering a full head of highlights or a full head of colour and cut and finish for just £99. Simply quote Absolutely Loves when booking. Era Hair and Beauty, 178 Wandsworth Bridge Road, SW6; 020 7371 8040

ICANDI

iCandi offers the best personal training combined with Pilates to sculpt, strengthen and tone, giving extraordinary results. One-to-one training keeps you motivated, ensures proper alignment and precise movements which are essential to consistently improve strength and fitness effectively and safely. Private studio in Parsons Green or home visits by appointment.

07766683700; icandimethod.com, candida@icandimethod.com

SOUPAJUICE

A SoupaJuice cleanse is the easiest way to look and feel your best. The juices are hand-made from a variety of the freshest organic fruits, vegetables and nut milks and then delivered straight to your door. Soupajuice is a simple yet effective way to detox that doesn’t compromise on taste. Having a delicious soup in the evening makes the whole cleansing process filling and more fun!

020 3623 2333; soupajuice.co; twitter.com/Soupajuice_info 21

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SOUTH PARK FULHAM

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ABSOLUTELY PROMOTION

SCULPT YOUR BODY SLIM IN SIX WEEKS

T

Louise Parker and her dedicated team are ready to bust your body into shape for spring

HE INTENSIVE PERSONAL TRAINING PROGRAMME was devised by celebrity trainer Louise Parker over 12 years ago and has since changed the body shape of hundreds of individuals. Her experience ranges from helping clients recover from longterm obesity, to taking care of some of the most beautiful bodies in the world.

The unique programme combines six hours a week of her exercise method, alongside a rigorous dietary overhaul, for a six-week period. “Each week we train you in four 90-minute sessions in the comfort of your own home – bringing the gym to you and saving precious time,” says Louise. “Some clients choose to do three 90-minute sessions over an eight-week period and the results are still exceptional.”

The Intensive employs exercise and diet methods that radically shift body fat and totally re-sculpt the body, without compromising metabolism.

“It’s so important to teach our clients how to boost their metabolism so that once they have lost the weight they can easily keep it off,” she notes.

“So many diets will get the weight off but your metabolism will come to a grinding halt or they are just not sustainable.” The programme’s emphasis on resistance work and an intelligent eating plan ensure the results that clients achieve are long lasting and, most of all, easy to maintain. “No aspect of what we do is

extreme,” she explains. “Every element of the plan is sensible, researched and proven to work. But what we do is put it all together to create massive transformations in our clients’ bodies and lifestyles.

“My team are world class and without doubt some of the best in the country. Most come from a Sports Science background and we have two Olympic athletes amongst us. We all share a friendly, no-nonsense approach and between us we offer an unrivalled service to our clients. I’m hugely proud to have such a talented and committed team behind me.”

with, and what has to be done to return you to your former glory.”

Louise Parker designs each programme with one of her team before the programme commences, based on the individual’s requirements and deadlines. A rigid, yet balanced food plan is devised, ensuring optimal results. Louise personally monitors your diet diary on a daily basis to ensure you are on the right track and that you get all the support and motivation you need to succeed. In six weeks, you will emerge looking better than you thought you ever could. What Louise Parker does isn’t gimmicky, it is instead an intelligent combination of three factors – nutrition, training and lifestyle – delivered in just the right combination. “Providing you have made the decision to change and are willing to let us guide you,” she asserts, “You simply cannot fail – clients routinely drop two dress sizes on the Intensive.”

There are many bespoke programmes available, and following a telephone consultation, Louise will advise a suitable programme and schedule to suit any objective, lifestyle and budget. Louise asks that new clients commit to a minimum of three hours per week to ensure that they achieve amazing results.

You simply cannot fail clients routinely drop two dress sizes on the Intensive Louise Parker believes anyone can have a fantastic body – regardless of age, body type and starting point: “By following my method, you really will be blown away by how you can change your body shape, overall fitness and exceed your own expectations.”

Her programme is suitable for anyone wanting exceptional results, in record time. The Intensive is hugely popular with clients needing to be what she calls ‘red-carpet ready’ – whether that’s for a wedding, new job-role or even the school run. “I love helping post-natal mums,” she explains. “Since I had my daughters in quick succession, I fully understand the challenges new mothers are faced

Louise Parker Personal Training, 2 Eaton Gate, SW1W 9BJ 0800 084 2828 info@louiseparkerpersonaltraining.com 23

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22/05/2012 17/04/2012 09:36 13:04

JAMES MIDDLETON AND CHARLIE GILKES

STIFF UPPER LIP

Charlie Gilkes and Duncan Stirling, kings of kitsch and owners of Bunga Bunga and Maggie’s, last month threw a Hamptons-style garden bash at Embassy Gardens to celebrate their collaboration with Ballymore, for whom they will be creating a new speakeasy style bar at the new ‘riverside neighbourhood’. Toasting the collaboration were James Middleton, Guy Pelly, Olivia Hunt, Astrid Harbord, Katie Readman and Victoria von Westenholtz, all of whom braved the torrential rain in true Brit style on the terrace, while sipping iced tea and Grey Goose summery cocktails and nibbling cucumber sandwiches. Photographs: Matthew Pearl

TOM INSKIP, ASTRID HARBORD AND GUY PELLY DUNCAN STIRLING

Absolutely

VICTORIA VON WESTONHOLZ

SOCIAL

SIR MARK AND LADY THATCHER

LUCY GORROD AND ALEX BRIDGWATER

THE GARDEN PARTY

The sun was shining on The Orangery at Holland Park as EF Medi Spa celebrated its fifth birthday in style.

The Pimm’s and champagne flowed as guests floated across the lawns and toasted the ever-burgeoning brand’s founders, Esther and Victor Fieldgrass. Here’s to the next five years!

TANYA EGHIAYAN, PAUL EDMONDS AND ESTHER FIELDGRASS

EF MEDISPA CHELSEA GIRLS FAYE, CLARE, MADDY AND ZULEIMY

ESTHER FIELDGRASS, JAMES ARMITAGE AND BOYARDE MESSENGER KRISHAN SINGH AND THEO FIELDGRASS

MADDY STONE, FAYE WHITEHEAD, DEAN RHOBAYE AND MAX FIELDGRASS

NOTES FROM CHELSEA NEW YORK...

Lace has always been an obsession of mine and so I just fell in love with designer Miguelina (miguelina.com) and her line of beautiful beach cover-ups this summer. I just starred in her new beach video and got to wear all

her new designs. Here’s a snap of us pretending to be mermaids in Southampton NYC. Everyone from Katy Perry to Rachael Zoe has been snapped this season in her dresses.

The latest buzz in East Hampton is my friend Jeff’s new concept store

Blue and Cream. Here I am with him and his wife standing in his wonder emporium where you can buy everything from designer gold guns to the cutest party dresses like the one I’m wearing.

I left the calm Hamptons for

hippie chic San Francisco when I went to the Outside Lands festival to see Neil Young, Stevie Wonder and Metallica perform. It was totally awesome – however I totally under packed; San Fran was freezing!

Marissa Montgomery

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30/08/2012 20:08

ABSOLUTELY PROMOTION

Fresh, not frozen The Waterhouse Young Clinic’s gentle approach to wrinkle-free skin

I

f, like many people, you believe that Botox can only achieve results by freezing your natural facial expressions, it’s time to think again.

Dr Mica Engel, one of Waterhouse Young’s cosmetic doctors, unravels the myths about Botox and shares the secrets of achieving a fresh, wrinkle-free appearance – without frozen features.

What’s Botox used for?

Botox is used to treat frown lines, crow’s feet, ‘bunny’ lines on the nose, smile lines and to tighten the skin around the neck and jowls. It has also become popular for treating excessive sweating of the armpits, hands, feet and forehead, and teeth grinding (which can cause headaches and damage to teeth).

Does Botox still have a stigma?

People used to think that if you’d had Botox it gave you status. Now it’s an everyday treatment. The stigma surrounding it is far less than it used to be, and with a conservative approach no one need ever know you’ve had it done.

How can I look fresh, not frozen?

When you smile or frown the muscles in your face contract, causing lines and wrinkles. Over time, these lines become

permanent. Botox works by relaxing the muscle, but too much can stop all movement, which gives a frozen look. We prefer to subtly enhance your features, so rather than give you a stiff, unnatural look, we take a measured approach. We start by injecting very small amounts into precise points in the muscle, thus softening wrinkles but keeping some muscle movement. We’ll see you two weeks later to make sure you’re happy with the results and, if needed, we’ll fine-tune by giving you a top-up treatment.

Who should carry out Botox?

Botox is a prescribed medicine, so you’ll meet one of our aesthetic doctors for a full skin consultation. If you decide together that it’s the right treatment for you, they’ll prescribe it. Botox injections should only be given by a qualified doctor with relevant training – at our clinic the procedure is always carried out by an aesthetic doctor.

Ideally, you should choose someone registered with regulatory body, the British College of Aesthetic Medicine. All our aesthetic doctors and nurses are registered.

What are the alternatives?

While Botox is effective and safe, there are alternatives, such as: • Dermal fi llers, which are injected into the skin to plump it up and smooth lines; • Dermaroller, a micro skin-needling treatment that triggers the body into regenerating collagen and elastin, making it perfect for treating scarring, facial and décolleté lines and overall skin rejuvenation; and

WRINKLE BUSTING OFFER

Waterhouse Young Clinic is offering Absolutely readers a complimentary computerised skin consultation and 20 per cent off Botox or dermal filler treatments when booked on the day of consultation.

To book, call 020 7486 3849 or visit waterhouseyoung.com

BOTOX MYTH BUSTERS

1. Botox freezes your facial expressions You can choose to have a more frozen look, but it’s not necessary. By injecting small, precise amounts, we can soften the lines, but keep movement around the eye area, so you’ll still have your facial expressions.

2. Botox is toxic Botox is a purified form of Botulinum toxin. The concentration of the toxin is very low and when it’s injected in pinpoint amounts it won’t spread to other areas of the body, making it a safe treatment.

3. Botox is painful Most people only feel a mild, stinging sensation, however, some find the treatment uncomfortable. Mica has a lot of experience and skill with Botox injections and many clients comment on her soft touch. In addition, the Waterhouse Young clinic uses a revolutionary new technique to numb the area and minimise any discomfort. The treatment is over before you know it.

• Medical Facials, which give a temporary result by plumping up the skin to soften lines, making them appear reduced.

We’ll talk you through your choices at the consultation to help you find the right treatment for you. Whatever you decide, we’ll always take a gentle approach to leave you with wrinkle-free skin that makes you feel great.

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ARTS&CULTURE

AN EVENING ON EVEREST

5 SEPTEMBER THE ROYAL GEOGRAPHIC SOCIETY Walking with the Wounded – a charity which invests in the retraining and re-education of ex-members of the armed forces – hosts an evening at The Royal Geographical Society this month. The event gives a well-earned platform to four wounded servicemen who will present the tremendous challenges they undertook when heading to the North Pole, consequently breaking a world record. Expect images and film footage of their adventures, after which each will speak about their journey, from the frontline through all the training. Catch this inspirational tale of hardships overcome at 1 Kensington Gore, SW7; tickets via walkingwiththewounded.org.uk

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CHELSEA AUTOLEGENDS

2 SEPTEMBER THE ROYAL HOSPITAL CHELSEA Chelsea AutoLegends – in conjunction with Walking With the Wounded – is a day event hosted by The Royal Hospital Chelsea. With a shopping village on site, and a French food court, it’s about fashion and food almost as much as it is about cars. But only almost; motoring enthusiasts won’t be able to resist the exceptional selection of cars and bikes on display. chelseaautolegends.com

IMAGE: JASON DODD PHOTOGRAPHY

JASON DODD

FOOD&TRAVEL

Romy van den Broeke picks the hottest tickets in town

CHOIR BOY AT THE JERWOOD THEATRE

4 SEPTEMBER – 6 OCTOBER ROYAL COURT THEATRE Tarell Alvin McCraney’s new play Choir Boy comes to our shores this month. Commissioned and co-produced by the Manhattan Theatre club, the play explores the complexed politics of sex and race. Directed by Dominic Cooke, the scene is set in an all black, all boys American school and follows the struggles of Pharus, a student whose ambition to lead the school’s gospel choir is in conflict with his desire to conform.

Sloane Square, SW1W; royalcourttheatre.com

THE CHELSEA ANTIQUES FAIR

19 – 23 SEPTEMBER CHELSEA OLD TOWN HALL The annual Chelsea Antiques Fair is back this summer at the Chelsea Town Hall. The fair sees thirty seven expert dealers taking part to cater to both keen collectors and browsing visitors alike.

A selection of items hailing from the past five centuries will be available, with items varying from fine jewellery to early English pottery, French bronze figurines to 20th-century furniture. Head down and get stuck into some high-end wheeling and dealing at Chelsea Old Town Hall, Kinds Road, SW3

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ARTS&CULTURE QUENTIN BLAKE

VEE SPEERS: THE BIRTHDAY PARTY

4 SEPTEMBER – 20 OCTOBER THE LITTLE BLACK GALLERY The Little Black Gallery this month hosts internationally renowned artist and photographer Vee Speers, whose ‘The Birthday Party’ series constitutes her first commercial exhibition in the UK. The images depict infants who are neither child, nor adult – rather, they are presented as nonentities, possessed of neither the innocence of childhood nor the understanding that comes with age. thelittleblackgallery.com

BIG DRAW FESTIVAL AT THE V&A

30 SEPTEMBER V&A The V&A hosts this year’s annual Big Draw festival, which unites some of the UK’s leading artists and designers for a day dedicated to the art of draughtsmanship. Activities available throughout the day will be influenced by current exhibitions at the museum, plus there will be opportunity aplenty to try your hand at fashion design, architectural design, children’s illustrations and comic book drawing. At the end of the day, guests are invited to exchange their own masterpiece for someone else’s drawing – after all, one man’s trash is another man’s treasure.

Cromwell Road, SW7; vam.ac.uk

RECENT PAINTINGS FROM NEW YORK

12 SEPTEMBER – 6 OCTOBER PLUS ONE GALLERY The Plus One Gallery exhibits a selection of soft focus paintings this month, the uniting subject for which is flora and fauna. The pioneering photorealist Ben Schonzeit explores the notions of vision, and what it means to see.

His impeccable brushwork, an abiding feature of his latest paintings, breathes new life into the classic still life subject of flowers. A brilliant enquiry into a well-known subject, presented in a completely new and innovative way.

89-91 Pimlico Road, SW1W; plusonegallery.com

SHARED APPETITE

14 – 30 SEPTEMBER DAVID MELLOR DESIGN This exclusive exhibition takes place as part of the London Design Festival to showcase the latest culinary tools of the table. Curated

by Sebastian Bergne and Corin Mellor, the show unites food and design, with a collection of new and innovative kitchen equipment, such as measured cheese-cutting boards, knives, water filters and table mats.

4 Sloane Square, SW1W; davidmellordesign.com

SEASON OF CONCERTS AT CADOGAN HALL

18 SEPTEMBER – 7 FEBRUARY CADOGAN HALL London’s Royal Philharmonic Orchestra performs a season of concerts at Cadogan Hall, which will see distinguished musicians accompany the orchestra during the much-anticipated musical months – and with the likes of pianist Leon McCawley and violinist Chloe Hanslip expected to take to the stage, these concerts are not to be missed.

5 Sloane Terrace, SW1X; cadoganhall.com 31

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ARTS&CULTURE

King of the rock

Lauded by the likes of William Boyd, Thomas Mogford’s debut novel Shadow of The Rock spells the start of a thrilling new literary career Congratulations on the launch of Shadow of the Rock. Tell us a bit about the book...

Shadow of the Rock is a crime novel set in Gibraltar and Morocco. The main character, Spike Sanguinetti, is a Gibraltarian lawyer; he’s having a normal day until an old school friend turns up on his doorstep, accused of murdering a girl on a beach in Tangiers.

Spike reluctantly takes the case, crosses the Straits and finds himself drawn into a dangerous and shadowy world.

What about the thriller genre appeals?

It goes back to the child fearing monsters under the bed: we all have an in-built sense of danger lurking out there, unseen. As we grow up, the monsters turn into criminals or gangsters, but the principle remains: our cosy existence has the potential to be overturned, and things may not be as straightforward they appear. To experience that from the safety of a book is always exciting.

Tell us a bit about your protagonist Spike Sanguinetti ... There are more lawyers per capita in Gibraltar than in any other town on earth. Since the British military scaled down their presence on the Rock, the financial sector has boomed. So it made sense for Spike to be a lawyer; as for his character, the key was getting him to react in precisely the opposite way to me. He is extremely cool,

I am not; he keeps his head in dangerous situations, I still wonder vaguely at night if someone might be hiding in the cupboard.

What made you decide to set the book in Gibraltar and Tangiers?

My first visit to Gibraltar was a fluke. A friend was planning a trip to Brazil, so he booked himself onto a Spanish course in Granada. On the first day of the course he learnt that the locals in Brazil in fact spoke Portuguese; to escape the embarrassment, he called up a few friends and we joined him on a driving holiday round Andalucía. Gibraltar was first place we visited. Rather than sunburnt Costa Brits, it was full of polite, Latin-looking Gibraltarians with English first names and Italian surnames.

You’re already penning your follow up, Sign of the Cross. Will they be a self-contained pair of novels?

The two books stand alone, but one follows on from the other. Spike has just about recovered from the events of the first book when his uncle and aunt are killed in bloody circumstances in Malta. He goes to Malta for the funerals, and finds that the police version of events does not ring true.

Had you always wanted to be a writer?

Always, but I never thought it was a realistic

dream. Then a (now published) friend of mine called Lewis Crofts told me he’d started writing a book, and it wasn’t as impossible as it seemed. So I started, little realising it would take ten years before someone finally said yes to one of my novels.

But I’d learnt to enjoy the writing for its own sake by then.

What writers do you admire and why?

So many; I love Graham Greene’s novels and entertainments, particularly those set abroad.

You can almost taste the exotic locations, and they give the sense of a world of mysterious possibility just beyond the grasp of understanding. Lately, I’ve been enjoying the literary zing and white-knuckle plotting of Robert Wilson’s thrillers.

What advice would you give to aspiring writers? Don’t be afraid to start a new book if the one you’ve written isn’t finding favour with publishers. You can always come back to it. And always embrace the monsters under the bed.

Shadow of the Rock is published by Bloomsbury, £12.99

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ARTS&CULTURE

3

OF THE BEST

September

FILM RELEASES

After the annual silly season and its attendant dearth of movies, September is back with a filmic bang. First up is the much-anticipated Anna Karenina from Joe Wright (Atonement and Hanna), in which the

Culture Flash

THIS MONTH’S HIGHLIGHTS

ever-corseted Keira Knightly plays the title role in the Tolstoy classic tale of a married aristocratic woman who embarks upon an affair with Count Vronsky (Aaron Johnson).

Also starring Jude Law, Olivia Williams and Emily Watson… Next, Walter Salles brings his take on Jack Kerouac’s classic On the Road, which documents the beat writer’s travels round the US, meeting the likes of Allen Ginsberg and William Burroughs.

Sam Riley plays Sal Paradise (Kerouac’s alter ego), while Garrett Hedlund takes on the free-spirited role of Dean Moriarty (Neal Cassady’s alter ego)… and finally, Lawless, written by Nick Cave and starring Shia LaBeouf, Tom Hardy, Guy Pearce and Gary Oldman, is set in 1930s Virginia during prohibtion and tells the story of the Bondurant brothers, bootlegging boys who meet a variety of obstacles – and pretty lasses – along the way. John Hillcoat directs.

CROSSING CONTINENTS

Sebastian Faulks is perhaps best known for his First World War French trilogy.

With A Possible Life, he casts his gaze globally, as he tells a myriad of interlaced stories that link both geography and time; a young man in the Second World War, a workhouse father ashamed of his son and an awkward young songstress are the disparate but interlaced characters that the story weaves its way through to get to the core of – essentially – what makes us human. £18.99, hardback; Published

by Hutchinson

BLUE PLAQUE OF THE MONTH… WINSTON CHURCHILL, 28 HYDE PARK GATE, SW7

Winston Churchill barely needs any form of introduction. His leadership of Britain to victory against Hitler’s Nazi regime, his much-quoted speeches, the perma-present cigar… all are as well-known and loved as his caustic and devastating wit. But while this country’s most famous former PM is most closely associated with Downing Street and the Cabinet War Rooms, he spent the final 20 years of his life at this address, and although his health deteriorated, shy and retiring he was not, still regularly attending Parliament until 1964, the year before his death.

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TO THE MANOR BORN Sixties nostalgia at No.11 Cadogan, Chelsea’s newest luxe hotel Photography by Olgac Bozalp Styling by Clementine King

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Shift dress, £475, by Suzannah; Zuni inlay earrings, £89; Zuni multi-stone ring large, £189; Zuni multi-stone ring small, £169, all by Jessie Western

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White shirt, £121,

by Beaumont Organic; mustard jacket, £1064, by Georgia Harding at Wolf and Badger

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Red and white shirt, £300; burgundy textured velvet jacket, £1,400, both by Billionaire Couture; burgundy dome hat, £694.30, by Georgia Harding at Wolf and Badger; Zuni antique choker, £349, by Jessie Western

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Green tailored jacket, £1,655,

by Fyodor Golan at Harvey Nichols; roll-neck brown jumper, £434.70, by Malene Oddershede Bach at Bengt Fashion; Ray-ban vintage

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Dalida white shirt, £981, by Jexica

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This page: white with brown print shirt, £69,

by Rockmount at Jessie Western; vintage satin skirt by Alexander McQueen at Harrods; ring, £88, by Lucas Jack Opposite page: black and gold print shirt, £300 , by Billionaire Couture; black oversized blazer, £190, by Beaumont Organic; multi facet ring, £82, by Lucas Jack

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CREDITS Hair and make-up: Alice Howlet Model: Claudia Devlin at Premier Location: no11cadogangardens.com

STOCKISTS Jessie Western: 82b Portobello Road W11; 02072292544 Suzannah: suzannah.com Jexica: jexica.com Billionaire Couture: 9 Sloane St, SW1X, 02072450096 Beaumont Organic: beaumontorganic.com Lucas Jack: lucasjack.com Wolf and Badger: wolfandbadger.com JPB: jeanpierrebraganza.com Alexander McQueen at Harrods: harrods.com Bengt Fashion: bengtfashion.com Ray Ban: ray-ban.com/uk

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A Good 42

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Year

30/08/2012 14:03

Henry Barlow meets the V&A’s Martin Roth a year after he took up its directorship to talk legacy, responsibility, accessibility and the future

A

rranging a meeting with Martin Roth, the recently appointed director of the V&A, is a task that requires almost as much careful planning and good fortune as the construction of one of the museum’s blockbuster exhibitions. After what feels like an eternity of back and forth with his press office, a time is finally arranged to meet, which then has to be postponed because Roth has gone down with flu. An alternate date is then offered, the day before the Olympics begin, and as I’m on my way to interview him I’m informed that our slot has to be cut short because there is a delegation of Chinese VIPs in town for the ceremony who are desperate to meet him beforehand. Roth, I realise, is a man very much in demand.

The avuncular, vaguely professorial figure that I finally encounter belies any sense of a man who lives a frenetic life, despite his firm status in the A-list of directors of cultural institutions. Instead, in Roth’s spacious office, decorated with everything from a Sex Pistols album cover to a wide variety of English, French and German tomes (Roth speaks at least three languages fluently), there is a sense of peace and tranquility, with the small team of assistants outside presumably maintaining this atmosphere by fending off the hundred and one enquiries, trivial and profound alike, that Roth no doubt faces daily.

He’s been working at the V & A for nearly a year now – ‘eleven months, though it feels like four’ – and he finds it awe-inspiring every day. ‘There’s such a variety of topics and the collection has such depth,’ he says. ‘I like the idea too that it’s part of ‘Albertopolis’, the collection of museums that throng South Kensington. There’s such a rich heritage of culture and the arts around here, and now that it’s been pedestrianised it’s much easier to get around.’ Roth first visited the museum

in the late 1970s, and has been a big fan ever since. As he says: ‘If I had a spare hour or so when I was in London, I quite often would pay my entrance fee – when one still existed – and would walk around. I’ve always liked it here, because it’s eccentric and quintessentially British. But I never expected that I’d end up as director here one day.’

Indeed, there were a few eyebrows raised upon Roth’s appointment. Not because he wasn’t eminently suited to a career as highprofile as this, but because he’s German and worked for many years in Dresden at the museum there. Occasional mutters were heard that ‘it should have gone to someone English’, but Roth, in a calm and civil way, refutes this entirely. ‘I’m not an art historian, and I come to the work with a background of cultural anthropology and sociology instead, which mirrors the collection here. It’s an art collection, sure, but it’s also something to do with national history and also the future. I feel hugely privileged to work here, and the whole experience for me is a Janus-like feeling of both looking into the past, and trying to anticipate what’s going to come as well. I’m interested in things like digital technology as much as I am in painting and sculpture.’

The V&A can seem a dauntingly vast place, even to the seasoned visitor, for which Roth has his own explanation: ‘I like to

compare it to the human brain, a place where there are a lot of different ideas and different layers all being held at the same time. It’s an adventurous endeavour to understand the V&A, and one thing that’s so lovely is that people come here every week. Calling us a ‘local museum’ sounds reductive, but we’re firmly based in South Kensington, and everything about us stems from where we’re located. We’re not just a brand, we’re an ego.’

As such, Roth, who has worked in museums for the past two decades, freely admits that his work so far has been little short of daunting. ‘The daily administration – the grind – is just one part of it. I’ve been trying to understand the institution, and it’s going to take years to understand all the details. My predecessors, Mark Jones and Ian Fletcher, did an amazing job, so it’s not like I have to change things for the sake of it, but instead I have to build on their excellent work. I will make changes, but in a subtle and sympathetic way. My concern is to engage with the public, as well as with the museums around Albertopolis. I’m not shy about saying how brilliant we are – I think it’s a very English trait not to talk about it, but I want to evangelise about how fantastic we, and the other places round here, are.’

Exhibitions planned for the rest of 2012 span the V&A’s entire remit; there’s going to be a glossy, no doubt celebrity-friendly one about Hollywood costume, but it will stand side-by-side with a more low-key but equally fascinating exhibition about Middle Eastern photography. For Roth, this sums up his objective for the museum. ‘What I always wanted was for people to understand different lifestyles and communities. So, while we have our big blockbuster shows, our mission is also to show how different parts of the world work.’ This mission is going to be aided by the next phase of the museum’s ‘Futureplan’ development, an ambitious 43

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A YEAR IN PICTURES AT THE V&A: PREVIOUS PAGE: ‘BALLGOWNS: BRITISH GLAMOUR SINCE 1950’, ATSUKO KUDO, WORN BY GEORGIA FROST WITH DRESSES BY HARDY AMIES AND WORTH OF LONDON. THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM BOTTOM LEFT: ‘HEATHERWICK STUDIO: DESIGNING THE EXTRAORDINARY,’ BLEIGIESSEN, WELLCOME TRUST LONDON, 2005; ‘BALLGOWNS: BRITISH GLAMOUR SINCE 1950’, GILES DEACON SS/07 © TIM WALKER / ART + COMMERCE; ‘HOLLYWOOD COSTUME’ ELIZABETH THE GOLDEN AGE; BALLGOWNS: BRITISH GLAMOUR SINCE 1950’, ALEXANDER MCQUEEN SS/11 © CHRISTOPHER MOORE, CATWALKING.COM; ‘FASHION IN MOTION,’ CRAIG LAWRENCE SS/12.

ALL IMAGES COPYRIGHT V&A

scheme designed to make the V&A both a more aesthetically interesting place to visit, but also to increase its display space. Roth is both excited and cautious about it. ‘If you have a masterplan, you have to have an idea of where you’re going. It’s like sailing – if you don’t reach your target, you have to know where you are, or you’re going to hit the rocks!’ A mention of Daniel Liebeskind’s controversial, and scrapped, proposal for a spiral extension draws a sharp intake of breath, a raised eyebrow, and a change of topic. (‘Although it would make an interesting exhibition down the line…’)

If there’s one thing that comes through from my conversation with Roth, it’s how passionate he is about the idea that one of the world’s most famous and revered institutions – and ‘a very elegant place’ – should also be a home-from-home for locals. ‘We have a beautiful courtyard, and after the horrible façade was scrapped, it’s a lovely public space.

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Too many museums are like airports, with nasty modern spaces but very little soul.

We try and be open to everyone. In fact, last summer I saw a family heading through the museum, holding towels. I carried on watching as they went out into the garden and sat out there, sunbathing. We even get asked in the shop sometimes if they sell sun-towels. Perhaps we should!’

Roth makes much of how accessible he, and the other people in the museum, try to be to the public. I nod and murmur approval, knowing that Roth’s hectic workload must mean that there’s much less of the gladhanding and meeting and greeting than perhaps he would like. As we part, I to the tube and Roth to the next round of busy meetings and functions that make up his life, I glance back at the main entrance of the V&A, which has just opened for the day. Roth is there, warmly greeting the first few visitors. Perhaps the delegation of Chinese VIPs could wait just five minutes longer, after all. vam.ac.uk 45

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10 Young

designers to watch Romy Van den Broeke takes her pick of the hottest new designers on the sartorial scene

1

TEPHI Who? Chessie Grievson’s Tephi, is fast becoming the hot label for sartorially minded Londoners.

Launched in 2009, the Oxford Design School and St. Martins-trained designer first made waves with her debut collection – titled ‘Grace’ – and since then has remained committed to the creation of beautifully crafted, ultra feminine pieces, all of which have a compelling and unexpected edge. Gloucester Road-based Grievson creates elegant, made-to-measure dresses, and offers a bespoke service to ensure that garments fit like a glove.

What? While Tephi offers plenty of prêta-porter pieces, its tailoring service is what really sets it apart. There are advisors on-hand to instruct clients on finishing touches, alterations and colour advice, making dress shopping an exciting and original experience, full of potential to create something that is entirely reflective of the customer’s taste, shape and aesthetic sensibility.

They say: ‘I love seeing people wearing my dresses, because I can be confident they feel a hundred per cent happy in a piece that has been designed or fitted specially for them.’

Browse the collection: tephi.co.uk

2

CHARLOTTE TAYLOR Who? Charlotte Taylor has come a long way since graduating from Central Saint Martins. She was immediately snapped up by a veritable roll call of heavyweights – first by Luella, then by Frost French and later by Marcus Constable.

And so it was that with some considerable experience under her belt, Taylor went on to launch her own eponymous womenswear label in 2010. Impressively, having been ‘discovered’

by Vauxhall Fashion Scout, the inaugural collection debuted at London Fashion Week the same year. We love her brilliantly eclectic inspirations, from penguins (AW10) to grannies and English eccentrics (SS11).

What? Her AW12 collection is titled Jamaica Inn, and is all about bold prints, classic shapes and bright colours. The abiding theme throughout the collection? The deceptively easy blend of the elegant with the attentiongrabbing, with a touch of old-time modesty thrown in. But what we love most of all is her endearing irreverence and her strong tomboyish sensibility.

They say: ‘It’s designed for people who don’t take themselves too seriously.’

Browse the collection: charlottetaylorltd.com 47

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CREDIT: CHARLOTTE TAYLOR

3

FELICITY BROWN Who? Brother and sister duo, Henry and Felicity Brown, set up the Felicity Brown label in 2010.

After graduating from the Royal College of Art, Felicity went on to design for some of the biggest names in fashion - Loewe and Mulberry to name two. In 2010 the siblings showcased their debut collection at London Fashion Week, winning plaudits from many a fashion heavyweight, including British Vogue, no less.

What? Felicity Brown’s womenswear is typically all about texture and layering; her current AW12 collection is an amalgamation of classic prints, geometric shapes, full-pleated skirts and contemporary necklines.

They say: ‘We strive to innovate through exquisite handmade pieces, hand-dyed and hand-printed, using traditional techniques with an exceptional construction process.’

Browse the collection: felicitybrown.com or harveynichols.com

4

SARAH STRAUSSBERG Who? Sarah Straussberg’s is the deft hand behind this winningly sculptural jewellery. She studied first at Central St.Martins and then headed south to Brighton University. Happily she is now back in London, and looks set to soar.

What? Straussberg’s jewellery is inspired by nature and – sweetly – she names each subtle but eye-catching collection after friends.

She says: ‘I love what I do, the thrill of designing new work is what drives me, as well as the wonderful feedback from my customers.’

Browse the collection: sarahstraussberg.com

5

ROKSANDA ILINCIC Who? Super hot Serbianborn Roksanda Ilincic has been showing for the past six years at LFW, wowing the fashion pack every time. After finishing at Central St Martins, this precocious talent was approached by the V&A to participate in the Fashion in Motion programme.

What? Ilincic’s designs grace many an A-lister’s wardrobe, as well the pages of innumerable glossies; her legion of fashion forward fans include Rooney Mara, Chloe Sevigny and Lady Gaga. For AW12 expect rich reds, punchy purples, royal blues and billowing skirts.

They say: ‘The Roksanda Ilincic woman is confident, sophisticated and effortlessly chic – so she is seeking a wardrobe which lets her subtly stand out in a crowd.’

Browse the collection: roksandailincic.com

6

CHRISTOPHER RAEBURN Who? Launched in 2008, Christopher Raeburn is dedicated to designing functional and ethically-sound clothing for men and women, made from recycled local fabric. But forget the hessian sackcloth effect; Raeburn creates innovative and irresistible pieces which he typically shows alongside imaginative installations.

What? AW12’s Freeze’ collection embraces a much more feminine approach, with a range of garments designed to accentuate the female form – from fitted pencil skirts to elegant cinched-in waists.

They say: ‘Inspired by the depths of winter, every garment in ‘Freeze’ characteristically serves both purpose and design.’

Browse the collection: christopherraeburn.co.uk

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7

FINLAY & CO Who? David Lochhead, Dane Butler, Sam Lawson Johnston and Tom Stannard constitute the all-boy collective behind wooden sunglasses brand Finlay & Co. Their design axoim is that it’s about quality, sustainability and style – an approach that’s already proving a winner. Male models, David Gandy and Benji Lee, have lately been papped sporting the shades, though that’s not to say these are exclusively for men – this is some seriously covetable unisex eye candy.

What? Using only eco-friendly hardwood sources means that each frame is entirely unique because of the different grains of wood. Choose between two classic styles: the Ledbury and Bosworth.

They say: ‘Inspired by design and heritage from the 1950s, our sunglasses are handmade to achieve optimum comfort. Each pair is unique, individual in its own grain, character and natural finish. We thrive on the values of British fashion, always striving to produce something distinct and spectacular.’

Browse the collection: finlayandco.com or at Orlebar Brown, 73 Duke of York Square, SW3

8

BEULAH LONDON Who? The brainchild of Lady Natasha Rufus Isaacs and Lavinia Brennan, Beulah London was born after the duo volunteered at a Delhi slum, and decided to channel their fashion credentials into raising awareness of sex trafficking.

What? A favourite with the Duchess of Cambridge and in the running for a United Nations award, the AW12 collection is made from luxurious silks and cottons.

They say: ‘The vision is to help provide an alternative, sustainable livelihood to victims of human trafficking by involving them in the art of the production process.’

Browse the collection: beulahlondon.com

9

HOLLIE YOUNG Who? Hollie Young’s pride in British heritage is such that it underpins her entire approach to design. She takes her inspiration from the land she loves – that of the rural south-west – but maintains a modern edge through the use of unusual patterns and cuts.

What? Young’s graduate collection ‘Waif & Stray’ – appositely stocked at Made By Britain – is made-to-order. Expect pretty prints, silk dresses, tied waists and high splits.

They say: ‘My work embraces traditional British heritage to reintegrate the past into fluid, modern and silk printed pieces with a subtle ‘folk’ and ‘crafted’ aesthetic.’

Browse the collection: madebybritain.org or hollieyoung.co.uk

10

JAMES GOULD Who? Th is high flying Brighton University graduate is one to watch. Since graduating, he has been approached by some of the biggest names in fashion, and with a year working for uber cool Berlin fashion house Bless under his modish belt, he’s ready to take his minimal style to greater heights still.

What? Gould’s collection ‘YAK SAK’ is a reaction against overconsumption; his inspiration came from the ability of people in the developing world to use basic items in a multifunctional way.

He says: ‘The collection is for ‘modern adventurous women’, whether urban dwelling, or even Himalayan summiting.’

Browse the collection: cargocollective.com 49

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‘Watch the Statoll Masters Tennis featuring John McEnroe, Tim Henman, Goran Ivanisevic, Henri Leconte, Mark Philipoussis and Pat Cash among others, in style by treating yourself and three

friends to drinks and canapes in your own VIP box with the Volley Package, or enjoy a meal in the Royal Albert Hall’s Coda restaurant then get close to the oncourt action with the Courtside Package.

Order tickets at royalalberthall.com http://royalalberthall.com or for more details, call 020 7070 4404.

General tickets to the Statoll Masters Tennis start from £17.50 per person.

www.StatoilMastersTennis.com

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ARTS&CULTURE

For your eyes only To coincide with Terry O’Neill’s tome marking 50 years of Bond, Proud Chelsea devotes its hallowed walls to the legendary photographer’s images of that enduringly dashing secret agent

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PREVIOUS PAGE: ROGER MOORE POSING WITH A GUN, ‘LIVE AND LET DIE’, LONDON, 1980 © TERRY O’NEILL THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: ROGER MOORE AND MADELINE SMITH, ‘LIVE AND LET DIE’, LONDON, 1973 © TERRY O’NEILL; PIERCE BROSNAN AND BOND GIRLS, ‘GOLDEN EYE’, 1997 © TERRY O’NEILL SEAN CONNERY BEHIND THE LENS, ‘DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER’, LAS VEGAS, 1971 © TERRY O’NEILL; JILL ST JOHN, ‘DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER’, 1971 © TERRY O’NEILL; URSULA ANDRESS WITH PETER SELLERS, ‘CASINO ROYALE’, LONDON, 1967 © TERRY O’NEILL; HONOR BLACKMAN ON THE SET OF ‘GOLDFINGER’, MIAMI, 1964 © TERRY O’NEILL

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P

urring femme fatales, the most dangerous of liaisons, improbably brilliant gadgets and unflappable smoothness at all times… 007 is an icon that endures through the ages.

Now super snapper Terry O’Neill releases his new book All About Bond: Photographs

by Terry O’Neill, which also coincides with an accompanying exhibition, following

50 years of the secret agent. Think Sean Connery snoozing in a director’s chair; George Lazenby poolside; and Roger Moore cavorting in a hotel suite with Jane Seymour. Get an eyeful at Proud Chelsea, where, no doubt, they’ll be expecting you.

13 September – 4 November Proud Chelsea, 161 King’s Road, SW3; proud.co.uk 53

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

ABSOLUTELY

F a s h i o nChelsea & Jeweller y 

A unique red carpet catwalk presentation at

The night of 10th October 2012 will see Burlington Arcade play centre stage to a collaboration between celebrated antique jeweller, Susannah Lovis and British womenswear designer, Daniel Blake.

This star-studded event, sponsored by Absolutely magazines, will feature a champagne reception, high-octane catwalk show, prize draw, and lavish goodie bags to top it all off.

There will also be the opportunity to garner one-to-one advice from the designers themselves.

Luxury Goodie bags

Plus a prize draw worth over

£1,200

including

a

Thomas Lyte handbag

sponsors

Ti c k e t s

cost

£20 a n d m a y b e p u r c h a s e d online at

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www.susannahlovis.com

www.danielblake.co.uk

ABSOLUTELY Chelsea

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23/08/2012 15:22

FOOD&TRAVEL

Class Act From his defining role in Brideshead Revisited to his professorial turn in My Fair Lady, Anthony Andrews is one of the country’s best loved thespians. He talks to Nancy Alsop about taking to the new St James Theatre stage in Bully Boy

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T

wo weeks before we meet, Anthony Andrews was standing centre stage at the Albert Hall, commanding an audience of 5,500, awed into audible pin-dropping silence. The role? Henry Higgins, the wagering professor of My Fair Lady, performed in its entirety – Bernard Shaw dialogue and all. ‘When I played Higgins at Drury Lane in 2003, it was one of the most amazing experiences of my life,’ says the instantly likeable Andrews, who exudes an easy charm. ‘It was topped only by the Albert Hall.

John Wilson, whom I adore, made his name in the classics but he also has a passion for the great musicals. He realised, to his despair, that the scores that had been rearranged for the big orchestras from the great dynasty of MGM musicals had gone up in flames. So he felt a duty to restore them.’ After painstakingly listening to each instrument individually and noting it down – a two-year process – Wilson was invited to stage a prom of his restored scores, which was met with unprecedented enthusiasm. ‘To stand on the stage with 5,500 people on their feet at the end was the greatest moment of my career thus far.’

Which is saying something. For Anthony Andrews is a man who has garnered a legion

audience. ‘I knew it was an important piece, but it was incredible to get that kind of reaction every night out in the sticks, not that I want to be unfair to the Nuffield but it wasn’t exactly a mainstream audience. It is extremely profound and funny but also a serious play about the difficulty of understanding the injuries you cannot see in the theatres of conflict that are so dominant in our lives now. As such it’s a tremendous exposé of what these guys go through on a regular basis.’

Has this play I wonder, changed the way he views modern warfare? ‘Yes, an enormous amount. What is obvious is that they have now arranged some wonderful facilities for injured soldiers – and there are so many more now because the weapons are designed to maim rather than kill. It’s not the same for those who have suffered combat stress.

Your everyday soldier, moving about in a convoy, is extremely exposed. Often they do a number of sorties in a day and quite often come across massive and devastating destruction. And they have to live with that.

It makes you realise that anything that can be done in the way of diplomacy to avoid conflict should be done, but inevitably, it’s like the world’s greatest argument. Eventually somebody’s going to punch somebody, and the consequences are terrifying.’

‘Anything that can be done to avoid conflict should be done. Eventually somebody is going to punch somebody, and the consequences are terrifying’ of fans via his definitive turn as Sebastian Flyte in the 1981 Brideshead Revisited adaptation, as well as for roles in Love in a Cold Climate and latterly in The King’s Speech. But today, we have met to talk on a rather weightier topic than the education of cockney flower girls – the preposterous juxtaposition of which Andrews is first to note. After all, he is about to star in the opening performance at the brand new St James Theatre in Bully Boy, a two-hander written by Sandi Toksvig which addresses the issue of the psychological stress incurred by modern day warfare. Andrews plays a wheelchair-bound major who fought at the Falklands investigating the case of a young private and self-styled bully accused of throwing an eight year old boy down a well in Afghanistan. Having performed it last year at the Nuffield in Southampton, the response was such that it felt necessary to bring it to a wider

Quite. Toksvig’s play – which unfolds to reveal how these two serviceman from opposite sides of the tracks have more than imagined in common – reminds us of a stark and sobering statistic: that more Falklands fighters committed suicide post combat than those who died in the conflict. ‘The army is terribly good at dealing with people who are distressed when they’re in the army – the problem occurs when they leave the services,’ explains Andrews. ‘And sometimes people go into highly stressful jobs, like the City, so they’ve got something that concentrates their minds enough to not spend too much time thinking about the things they carry with them. It isn’t until that finishes that it emerges, and then suddenly somebody finds they’ve attempted to kill their wife.’

It’s a surprisingly grave subject matter from the pen of Toksvig, that familiar comic voice of Radio 4. ‘She’s extraordinary,’ says Andrews.

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FOOD&TRAVEL ‘She has the most fantastic facility, a very quick mind, for re-writing if something doesn’t quite scan. When we hit a problem with a scene, she was straight down to the coffee shop with her laptop, writing page-after-page to fix it.’

I cannot, though, let an encounter with Andrews go by without mention of Brideshead, that exemplar of British television drama.

Does it, I venture tentatively, bother him that people never stop harping on about it? ‘Not at all!’ he says graciously. ‘When Brideshead started, we shot for a couple of months and it was fractious. We had these scripts that were written for six hours of television by John Mortimer, but there were massive holes – a very difficult thing to do, because the arc of each character needs to be seen to understand why they do what they do. It sounds clichéridden but with that particular book, it’s true.’

Fate, however, intervened. ‘Early on we were hit by this independent television strike – all the technical staff walked out, programmes were hitting the dust, and we thought we’d be cancelled too. The strike lasted 13 weeks. In that time, Derek Granger, the genius – and I use that word advisedly – who produced

Brideshead managed to persuade to David Plowright and Dennis Forman that we needed longer to make this film properly. They agreed to double the budget, which is unheard of, and give us twice as much airtime. So we ended up making 13-and-a-half hours of television, for £10m. It was a particularly wonderful time for television in this country, we were hit by the strike, and we had producers who recognised the opportunity. They threw out all the scripts and we started again, literally from the book.

The reason it’s historical is that it can’t happen again. Budget restraints wouldn’t allow it.

That’s why I don’t mind people talking about it.’

There must, I surmise, have been a sense when they came back on set that something

PREVIOUS PAGE: ANTHONY ANDREWS STARS IN BULLY BOY. THIS PAGE:, LEFT AND BELOW: WITH JEREMY IRONS IN BRIDESHEAD REVISITED, 1981; RIGHT: WITH ROSAMUND PIKE IN LOVE IN A COLD CLIMATE, 2001

magical was happening? ‘I think half way through we had a feeling that we were doing something good. And we were very much a family – we still are, it’s just that we don’t see each other nearly as much as we’d like to. Of course, the two-year time frame had thrown everyone’s contracts out, so at one point Jeremy suddenly went off to make a movie which meant that we had to stop again – not the most popular decision Jeremy ever made!’ As it turned out somewhat fatefully, Irons was not the only one who was forced to absent himself from the set. ‘Because of the change of dates, our director Michael Lyndsay-Hogg had got a movie, so he couldn’t do Brideshead. Derek Granger then cleverly found this very young

boy who knew the book backwards: Charles Sturridge, who was 24, and all he’d ever done before was one episode of Coronation Street.

Half way through we knew we were doing something important, but the tell-tale sign came at a preview, a completely unfinished screening, for PBS in New York, and they were blown away by it. The American audiences were the icing on the cake – even now when you go to the States, it’s always playing on some channel, somewhere. It’s a bit scary, seeing yourself in young face suddenly popping up.’

This last encapsulates Andrews’ charm.

Whilst the rest of the world views him as a thespian treasure, he by turn, is all humility.

He recalls for instance, a recent encounter with a very young fan. ‘I was thrilled because a lady who I knew vaguely asked if she could introduce me to her granddaughter. So I said hello to her and she said: ‘I just wanted to talk to you about the Scarlet Pimpernel, I think it’s wonderful.’ And I said: ‘My god, I’m stunned that you even recognise me, I must be so old to you.’ She was eleven! Well that just kind of stopped my heart, I was thrilled.’ But, I protest, he is just one of those actors everyone loves.

‘Well that’s very sweet of you to say so. I adore them if they can remember me.’

Bully Boy runs from 18 Sept - 27 Oct; to book visit stjamestheatre.co.uk 57

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ABSOLUTELY PROMOTION

THE MARKHAM INN

Established in 1863, The Markham Inn became a place where explorers and travellers, such as Sir Clements Robert Markham, secretary of The Royal Geographic Society, would congregate to exchange stories and make plans. Chelsea’s less intrepid visitors won’t need a compass to find their way – The Markham is centrally located on Chelsea Green. The Markham offers an all-day, European menu with a special focus on lovingly prepared, seasonal and Britishsourced food. 2 Elystan Street, SW3; 0207 581 9139; themarkhaminn.com

PELLICANO

Green day

Pellicano is a family-owned restaurant whose philosophy is to serve wholesome, freshly made food in a friendly environment.

Its customer service is secondto-none, ensuring all guests are well catered for. Marcello Vargiu came to London in 1976, having worked in Sardinia, Switzerland and Milan. He opened his first restaurant, Ciboure in 1982. Helater worked with Gino Santin at Santini, Santini Milan and L’incontro. He continues to work front of house and leads by experience and enthusiasm, still serving loyal customers from his Ciboure days. 19/21 Elystan Street, SW3; 020 7589 3718; pellicanorestaurant.co.uk

Chelsea Green epitomises the village feel of the area as evidenced by its chic grocer, gorgeous eateries and stylish boutiques

THE FLEUR B BOUTIQUE

The Fleur b. boutique on Chelsea Green combines niche brands with its own exclusive Made in England label.

Brands include Mother denim, Ulla Johnson, By Malene Birger and Lara Bohinc. The Fleur b. range has been designed with the individual in mind, combining simple styles with beautiful fabrics, making the business of getting dressed every day a stylish and effortless affair.

Fleur has recently opened her second boutique in Mayfair, at 21 Dukes St, W1.

8 Elystan Street, SW3; 0207 225 3050; fleurb.co.uk

ANDREAS

ASTELL PHARMACY

Astell Pharmacy provides NHS services of smoking cessation, dispensing and advice. It also dispenses private prescriptions and offers a wide range of luxury items, which include Mason and Pearson, Floris, Rigaud and Canovas, Darphin, Nux, La Roche Posay, Avene, Vichy, Clarins, Roget and Gallet, Kneipp and Essie.

6 Elystan Street, SW3; 0207 584 5424

Andreas’ glorious, colourful pavement displays are a local talking point. Catch the last of the juiciest blood peaches and nectarines, figs and the finest, tastiest tomatoes in London.

Grapes and plums are in their prime in September plus rainbow chard, fennel and wild porcini.

Drop in or order. Free delivery.

4 Cale Street, SW3; 020 7589 5775; andreasveg.co.uk

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PAUL DAVIS + PARTNERS

Paul Davis + Partners is an awardwinning international architectural practice based in London, with offices in Chelsea, Covent Garden and Hong Kong. The practice is renowned for its urban design and luxury residential expertise, successfully integrating new build with historic environments. The practice has recently completed 45 Park Lane Hotel and 3-10 Grosvenor Crescent, and was responsible for the Duke of York Square development, including the Saatchi Gallery. pauldavisandpartners.com

Best of Belgravia The chic streets of Belgravia are awash with beautiful boutiques. Absolutely picks the cream of the crop

ERICKSON BEAMON

THE DINING CHAIR CO.

The Dining Chair Company is dedicated to producing the highest quality dining chairs at competitive prices. All the chairs are traditionally upholstered and made in Britain, and there is also a bespoke service, creating original designs where required.

4 St Barnabas Street, London, W1W; 020 7259 0422, enquiries@diningchair.co.uk; diningchair.co.uk

Very few designers can claim to have dressed both the First Lady and Lady Gaga, but even fewer share the imagination of jewellers Erickson Beamon. Walk into their boutique on Elizabeth Street, Belgravia and you will find truly unique and exquisite pieces all hand-crafted in-house.

Erickson Beamon 38 Elizabeth Street, SW1W 020 7259 0202; ericksonbeamon.com

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ABSOLUTELY PROMOTION

THE THOMAS CUBITT

Much-loved, and much-frequented by local residents and businesses, this neighbourhood pub is renowned as one of the best in London. It offers friendly service, delicious freshly prepared gastro grub on the ground floor, with an elegant dining experience set on the fi rst floor.

Open for lunch, dinner and an all-day Sunday roast. 44 Elizabeth Street, SW1W; 020 7730 6060; thethomascubitt.co.uk

THE BIGGEST BLANKET COMPANY

LOUISE KENNEDY

Internationally renowned fashion designer Louise Kennedy has become synonymous with modern sophistication and elegant design. Each season her collections continue to reflect the highest standards of craftsmanship that instantly appeal to those who value understated luxury and contemporary glamour. Explore the latest AW12 collection in her UK flagship store positioned right in the heart of Belgravia, and indulge in an unrivalled choice of deliciously luxurious interior accessories and crystal designs.

9 West Halkin Street,SW1X 0207 235 0911 london@louisekennedy.com

The Biggest Blanket Company produces exclusive blankets and throws in pure new wool, alpaca, cashmere, mohair and merino. Modern or traditional with a twist, colours and designs vary with the latest interiors trends and the changing seasons. It also stocks complementing quilts, feather blankets, bed-linen, luxurious nightwear and silk dressing gowns, plus even room scents and candles for you to create the perfect ambience.

45 Pimlico Road, SW1W 020 7823 4336 biggestblanket.co.uk

PAOLO MOSCHINO FOR NICHOLAS HASLAM Since the 1940s Belgian shoes have been a cult favourite among the discerning sartorial crowd, providing the ultimate comfort and understated elegance. The Mr Casual style in black velvet, pictured right, is the perfect complement to your black tie attire. Belgian Shoes are available for ladies and men in a wide variety of colours and materials, exclusively from this luxury lifestyle boutique.

202 Ebury Street, SW1W; 020 7730 0445. nicholashaslam.com; belgianshoes.co.uk

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ABSOLUTELY PROMOTION

VIVIEN GREENOCK

Vivien Greenock has an indisputable reputation for flawlessly elegant design and outstanding quality. Her effortlessly expert decorating in classic and contemporary styles is a secret guarded fiercely by her elite international clientele. The only decorator for those in the know!

52 Pilmico Road, SW1W; 020 7823 6665 vivien@viviengreenock.co.uk, viviengreenock.co.uk

JAMB

The Jamb Pimlico Road showroom displays antique and reproduction chimneypieces as well as fi re grates, lighting and furniture, and aims to capture the classical English country house aesthetic at the centre of the Jamb design ethos.

97 Pimlico Road, SW1W 020 7730 2122; info@jamb.co.uk

OSSOWSKI

Ossowski has been on Belgravia’s Pimlico Road since 1960.

It specialises in the finest British 18th-century mirrors and consoles, and its on-site restoration workshop is also well worth a peek.

Illustrated is a gorgeous Robert Adam period mirror from around 1780.

83 Pimlico Road, SW1W 020 7730 3256; ossowski.co.uk

EBURY TRADING

Mark Punton’s eclectic store is packed with the stylish and the unusual. Focusing on antique lighting, there is an interesting selection of furniture and decorative items.

Pieces from the 18th-century can be found next to mid-20th-century classics.

7 Ebury Bridge Road, SW1W; ebury@mail.com; eburytrading.com 62

BELGRAVIA FEATURE.indd 62

30/08/2012 21:38

The Daily Telegraph

“

“

A legal force of nature

Marilyn Stowe is the senior partner at Stowe Family Law and one of the first solicitors to qualify as a family law arbitrator in England and Wales.

Leading the UK’s largest dedicated family law firm, she has more than 25 years’ experience handling divorce cases and family law proceedings. of the first solicitors to qualify as a family law arbitrator through · One the newly-formed Institute of Family Law Arbitrators (IFLA). first Chief Assessor and Chief Examiner of the Law Society’s · The Family Law Panel.

Fellow of the International Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers: · Aa global association of lawyers recognised for expertise in their

Located in WC1, Stowe Family Law specialises in family law issues; from divorce to cohabitees’ rights, with dedicated international and children’s teams.

The firm’s specialist in-house forensic accountancy department tracks down hidden assets and can provide immediate financial advice.

respective countries.

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

Stowe Family Law can help.

Contact 020 7421 3300 8 Fulwood Place, Gray’s Inn, London WC1V 6HG

Contact 01423 532 600 The Old Court House, Raglan Street, Harrogate, North Yorkshire HG1 1LT

chiefexecutive@stowefamilylaw.co.uk

stowe family law may 12.indd 1

www.stowefamilylaw.co.uk

Contact 0161 926 1410 The Camellia Building, 38 Oxford Road, Hale, Altrincham WA14 2EB

www.marilynstowe.co.uk

29/04/2012 20:54

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Visit us online at www.kutchenarte.com Kutchen Art.indd 2

25/07/2012 14:41

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Visit Visit your your local local store: store:

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Kutchen Art.indd 3

25/07/2012 14:41

The first choice

Interior architecture and concept design © Cardenes Studio Ltd 2012 Chandelier: “Porca miseria” by Ingo Maurer Dining chairs: “Komed” designed by Marc Newson

for interior architecture CARDENES STUDIO LTD 96 Kensington High Street | LONDON | W8 4SG Email: info@cardenesstudio.com FULL PAGE.indd 1

& Design in L ondon ...

Visit our website: www.cardenesstudio.com Call us to book an appointment: +44 (0) 20 7460 0341

20/07/2012 10:30

INTERIORS

10 of the best

ART DECO FURNITURE D ART UPCYCLE ARETTE DECO CIGE MACHIN , £1950; CABINETa.co.uk theoldcinem

, BLE IP TA TUL on request; Price iewade.com valer

Decorative delights

FRENCH DECO GLAMOUR CABINET, £1815; sweetpeaandwillow.com

FIN TABBASED JVB FLE, from DINING Van B urniture b £3,045; reda; j- y Just v-b.co in m

SWAN SO ELEGAN FA IN LEATHE CE conranshop.coR, £10,575; .uk

MOT KNO HER OF P E AR L anthro B, £14; pologie .eu

R ASS PAIR OF B HTS, Price WALL LIGleriewade.com on request; va

E NGL N I NO A BRU T LIGHTR ASS SPO IQUE B 4; ANTISH, £15 FIN nti.com artisa

AR M BOOM RL ‘67 LAMP IN SS; DESK R AL BR A e.com NATUalphlaurenhom £875; r

LL K, O TA DEC OR BLAC k R R I als.co.u M ; gifthe £1020

67

INTERIORS PRODUCTS.indd 67

30/08/2012 14:58

PROFILE INTERIORS INSPIRATION OF THE MONTH HEATHERWICK STUDIO

The V&A has been celebrating the best of British this year (along with everyone else it would seem). ‘Heatherwick Studio: Designing the Extraordinary’ is the fi rst major retrospective of designer du jour Thomas Heatherwick, whose Olympic flame for London 2012 was an unequivocal triumph. The comprehensive exhibition ends this month so don’t miss the opportunity to see the oeuvre of one of the most exciting and innovative contemporary design practitioners.

Ends 30 September; vam.ac.uk

©IWAN BAAN

Interior Inspirations

Gemma Billington joins the ranks of those inspired by Heatherwick Studio

DELIVERANCE

ON PAPER

Discover & Deliver founder Isabel Rutland noticed a gap in the market when, on her travels, she would admire the design at high-end hotels and restaurants but was unable to source anything similar back home. The newly launched online service showcases the height of luxe design from some of the world’s most stylish locations, and makes it easy for clients to recreate them.

Who wouldn’t want to emulate the contemporary warehouse stylings of Chelsea’s Poilâne in their own kitchen? discover-deliver.com

Fabrics & Papers has thousands of high-end designers on its books, including a range from textile guru Nicholas Herbert.

Trained at Colefax & Fowler, Herbert’s wallpaper and fabric prints are faithfully reproduced from traditional French designs of the 18th- and 19thcenturies. From £74.80; Nicholas Herbert, 118 Lots Road, SW10; fabricsandpapers.com

D&D LONDON

SHOW TIME

DECOREX LONDON

Decorex International, Chelsea’s grand dame of design and interior shows, is back with a bang and celebrating its 35th anniversary with over 250 companies showcasing their covetable wares. And this year, the grandmother of punk Vivienne Westwood – who lately proved her interior credentials with her wallpaper for The Rug Company – has designed the entrance to the show.

23 - 26 September; decorex.com

NICHOLAS HERBERT WALLPAPER

68

INTERIOR INSPIRATIONS.indd 68

30/08/2012 21:57

“...Why no t going fo r a sustai nabl

e home?”

Bespoke luxury design for your natural home Showroom: 311 Kings Road, SW3 5EP Tel. 0203 417 0193 info@welchome.co.uk

WELCHOME.indd 1

Design Loft: Old Imperial Laundry 69-71 Warriner Gardens SW11 4XW

28/08/2012 15:18

INTERIORS

A Designer’s

Life A brief encounter with...

Katharine Pooley, founder of her eponymous brand

My idea of heaven is…

Relaxing with my family in the sunshine!

The thing I’m proudest of is… Having my own business and my miracle babies.

Something I wish I were better at is…

Patience and finding time to do everything I want to do.

I would describe my style as…

Elegant but supremely functional.

My lucky break was…

Meeting my husband.

The person who would play me in a film would be… Jennifer Aniston, I love that she plays characters with humour and great feeling.

If I could choose someone to write the soundtrack to my life, it would be… Celine Dion, I find her music powerful but very beautiful.

The book that changed my life was…

North and South by John Jakes.

My best buy ever was…

My Jack Russell, Piglet.

My favourite saying is… Life just gives you time and space, it’s up to you to fill it.

The best hour of the day is…

When the kids are asleep!

My idea of a good night out is… A big night out with my girlfriends in Hong Kong.

And the perfect night in would be…

A whisky in front of our large fire in Scotland with my husband.

At weekends I most enjoy…

Being in the country, walking our dogs.

Someone whose style I admire is… Barbara

Top 3

Style Tips

Barry and Ralph Lauren.

The thing that gets me down is… Bad manners.

My favourite holiday is… Telluride Colorado – in the mountains, it is truly idyllic.

My favourite thing about Chelsea is…

The Pie Man in Chelsea Green.

If I could change one thing about Chelsea, it would be… The price of property.

What people might not know about me is…

My hobby is climbing mountains and I love sleeping in a tent.

katharinepooley.com

1. You should always be yourself – you are unique. Something that looks good on someone else doesn’t always look good on you, know yourself and embrace your own style.

2. You should always feel comfortable with yourself and in your surroundings.

3. Enjoy new trends and interpret them but don’t be a slave to them.

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30/08/2012 15:20

eggersman A4 may 2012_Layout 1 23/05/2012 13:05 Page 1

eggersmann new London flagship showroom

Exclusive appliance partners

redefining kitchens since 1908

eggersmann london, 555 kings road, london sw6 2eb 0207 371 8800 sales@eggersmannlondon.com

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23/05/2012 13:16

closed doors Behind

Call us prying, but we’re forever nosily craning our necks to gawp into the houses of others. Thank heavens then for Open House London. Here’s the best on show in our stomping ground ABOVE: ROCA LONDON GALLERY A BATHROOM SHOWROOM LIKE NONE YOU’VE EVER SEEN (BUT THEN NOTHING FROM THE ZAHA HADID STABLE EVER IS LIKE ANYTHING YOU’VE SEEN BEFORE – APART FROM, WELL, OTHER ZAHA HADID BUILDINGS.) ROCA LONDON GALLERY TAKES WATER, NATURALLY, AS ITS GUIDING THEME, AND IN THE DAME’S INIMITABLE STYLE, THE FLUID FORM OF THE STRUCTURE IS AS ENVELOPING AS IT IS AWE-INSPIRING. ARCHITECTLED TOURS AT NOON AND 3PM ON SAT AND SUN, FIRSTCOME BASIS. STATION COURT, TOWNMEAD ROAD, SW6

LEFT: HURLINGHAM CLUB THIS PAEAN TO THE GREAT 18TH-CENTURY MANSION ONCE FRONTED THE RIVER, THOUGH THESE DAYS IT IS RATHER MORE OBSCURED FROM VIEW – WHICH HAPPILY SUITS ITS MEMBERS WHO GO THERE FOR THE PEACE AND PRIVACY OF ITS GROUNDS AS WELL AS THE SPORT ON OFFER. THE ORIGINAL COTTAGE WAS ENLARGED BY THE ARCHITECT GEORGE BYFIELD, WHO TOOK LANDSCAPE ADVICE FROM THE MIGHTY HUMPHREY REPTON. RANELAGH GARDENS, SW6; SATURDAY TOURS AT 11AM AND 3PM, FIRST-COME BASIS, ENTRY 15 MINS PRIOR TO TOUR

72

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30/08/2012 13:01

ABOVE RIGHT: BROMPTON CEMETERY CALL US MACABRE, BUT BROMPTON CEMETERY IS ONE OF OUR FAVOURITE LOCAL HAUNTS. ONE OF THE ROYAL PARKS, ITS GOTHIC SPLENDOUR AND ORNATE VICTORIAN HEADSTONES AND TOMBS HAVE ACTED AS A SUITABLY ELABORATE BACKDROP TO MANY A SILVER SCREEN ADAPTATION FROM THE WINGS OF THE DOVE AND SARAH AND JACK TO GOLDEN EYE. OPENED IN 1840 AND DESIGNED BY BENJAMIN BAUD, ITS FORMAL LAYOUT AND ST.PETER’S BASILICA-INSPIRED CENTRAL CHAPEL MEAN IT IS HELD AS ONE OF THE FINEST EXAMPLES OF THE ERA’S URBAN CEMETERY. ENTRY TO CHAPEL. FULHAM ROAD, SW10; ROYALPARKS.ORG.UK RIGHT: FULHAM PALACE THE SITE HAS BEEN OCCUPIED

BY THE CHRISTIAN CLERGY SINCE 700AD, WHEN IT WAS ACQUIRED BY BISHOP WALDHERE. CONSIDERED ‘PRINCES OF THE CHURCH’, THE BUILDING BECAME KNOWN AS FULHAM PALACE, A PLACE FROM WHERE THE BISHOP OF LONDON WOULD PRESIDE OVER HIS DIOCESE, AS WELL AS HIS TENANTS AND SLAVES. SAT TOURS OF OFFICES NOT NORMALLY OPEN TO THE PUBLIC: 10AM, 11AM, 12PM; PREBOOK ONLY ON 020 7610 7165.

BISHOP’S AVENUE, SW6; FULHAMPALACE.ORG 22 & 23 SEPTEMBER LONDONOPENHOUSE.ORG

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30/08/2012 13:01

ENJOY AN INDULGENT MEAL WHILE WE LOOK AFTER THE CHILDREN Unwind after the school holidays with Sunday lunch at The Rib Room Bar & Restaurant, Knightsbridge. Children can search for hidden treasure as they embark on a pirate voyage in a specially-themed room, while parents relax with a three-course meal in the opulent restaurant. This exclusive family event sets sail on Sunday 16 September 2012.

To book your table, call 020 7858 7250 or visit theribroom.co.uk

JUMEIRAH.indd 1 1 12-08-29, Kids v4.indd

30/08/2012 15:26 30/08/2012 15:18:17

FOOD&TRAVEL

Norman conquest

ALL PHOTOS: JENNY ZARINS

Russell Norman, the man behind Polpo, Polpetto and Spuntino talks to Harriet Compston about the beauty of simplicity, and never sitting still

RUSSELL NORMAN Q&A_v2.indd 75

75

30/08/2012 15:37

Did you always want to work in the restaurant world?

No, but I always loved food, and I cook enthusiastically at home. I think I understand what people like to eat – I research, conceive, design and build restaurants and work alongside my chefs to create menus that are full of great, tasty dishes.

Culinary heroes?

Claudia Roden is a living legend – she is erudite, deeply knowledgeable and she writes beautifully. My favourite London chef at the moment is Jeremy Lee. He is firing on all cylinders at Quo Vadis and serves dishes that are beautiful, simple and full of flavour.

Do you have a favourite Polpo restaurant?

Don’t be ridiculous! That’s like asking a father to name his favourite child. I love them all of course, but I also revel in their differences.

Meal that changed your life?

A Caesar salad at Le Caprice in 1992. It made

me realise that good food is not necessarily about fancy cooking and complicated technique. It took me a further five years to realise that I wanted a career in restaurants.

What has been the proudest moment of your career so far?

Right now, knowing that we provide income and security to 140 employees, their families, children, husbands, wives… it’s a mixture of pride and great responsibility. I’m also constantly thinking: ‘I hope I don’t mess it up.’

What projects do you have going on?

The Polpo book has just come out, plus I’m currently preparing for a Polpo pop-up in Ibiza this summer. My business partner and I want to open a new central London restaurant with 150 seats and a great cocktail bar. If you know any sites that fit the bill, give me a call.

Top three ingredients you like to cook with?

Maldon sea salt – I use kilos of the stuff.

Planeta extra virgin olive oil – once you’ve

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30/08/2012 15:35

FOOD&TRAVEL

Prosciutto, mint and fig crostini achieved not when there is nothing more to add, but when there is nothing left to take away.’

used Planeta, there’s no going back; it’s like nectar. Onions are my favourite thing; most of my cooking starts with an onion.

What are your current favourites on the menu? I love Tom Oldroyd’s brilliant rabbit tonata salad. It’s a small masterpiece. Rachel O’Sullivan at Spuntino is cooking up a storm too. I adore her pea, radish, feta and mint salad – it is my summer favourite. And the cuttlefish in its ink with gremolata currently on the menu at all Polpos as a risotto is just a thrilling taste of the sea.

What do you knock up for a quick supper?

Bigoli in salsa. It’s a very simple Venetian dish of spaghetti with anchovies and melted onion, traditionally served during Lent. It is very tasty but also because it’s a ‘larder’ recipe, all the ingredients should already be in a moderately well-stocked domestic kitchen.

Best culinary advice you’ve been given?

Antoine de Saint-Exupery said: ‘Perfection is

Guilty food pleasure?

Double deckers. Warm home-made bread with lashings of butter. Sandwich spread. Barbecue flavour Hula Hoops. Heinz oxtail soup. Brie de Meaux with Carr’s water biscuits.

When not working, where do you eat out in London? I am a dreadful diner. I don’t enjoy eating in restaurants. I usually end up so frustrated that a customer over there is being ignored or those plates need clearing or that table needs setting that I’m half out of my chair wanting to help them. If I’m forced, I will opt for a bowl of noodles in an anonymous Chinatown favourite or a sandwich at Bar Bruno on Wardour street.

How do you like to relax? RELAX? That’s difficult. But I love spending time with my children, playing the ukulele, playing scrabble and cooking. If I’m lucky, all at the same time.

Future plans? I’m training to run a marathon in October. I ran my first marathon last year in Italy and it gets slightly addictive.

Polpo: A Venetian Cookbook (of sorts) by Russell Norman is published by Bloomsbury, £25

Unless you have a slicing machine or have practised with one of those ferocious-looking knives you see in traditional Spanish tapas bars, you should ask your deli to slice the prosciutto for you. Prosciutto should always be so thin that it is almost transparent. If it disintegrates it is too thin or too dry, but otherwise you want to be able to see light coming through the slices. Figs are only really in season in Europe from mid- to late-summer, but you do find them later. They are an unusual fruit in that they do not ripen after they are picked so there is no point buying unripe figs. However, you can ‘help’ an under-ripe fig to soften by roasting it, quartered, with a little olive oil, salt, pepper and sugar for about 15 minutes at 140°C/Gas 1.

For any number: French stick, cut into discs Extra virgin olive oil Very thinly sliced prosciutto Figs Mint leaves Flaky sea salt and black pepper Toast and oil the bread, then lay on some prosciutto, a quarter of ripe fig and a single mint leaf. Secure with a toothpick. Sprinkle on a little salt and pepper and add a tiny drizzle of olive oil. This is a particularly pretty little crostino.

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RUSSELL NORMAN Q&A_v2.indd 77

30/08/2012 15:39

Experience Great

Greek

Food

02072447777 www.asgreekasitgets.co.uk / 233 Earl’s Court Road London, SW5 9AH

as greek as it gets.FINAL.indd 1

10/08/2012 13:06

FOOD&TRAVEL ON THE GAME

To celebrate the fact that the Red Grouse shooting season is in full swing, star chef Richard Corrigan has launched a timely hunter’s menu. And as the man behind the eponymous Corrigan’s Mayfair says: ‘Quite rightly it’s increasingly seen as a healthy alternative to commercially reared animals… and quite impossible to clone!’ And, with only 5 – 7 per cent fat, game is the ultimate meat-lover’s guilt-free pleasure. corrigansmayfair.com

Food notes

The 1980s is back this month at Maggie’s, plus pirate antics at The Rib Room AHOY ME HEARTIES

Blimey and blow us down: for one day only, something of the Captain Jack Sparrows comes to the Rib Room Bar and Restaurant at the Jumeirah Carlton Tower.

While parents sit down to a civilised meal, swashbuckling tinies will be taken into the private dining room as Boo! Productions hosts a tea party for little pirates. £55 per adult, plus the cost of children’s food. Shiver me timbers and yo ho ho and a bottle of rum to that! 16 September; theribroom.co.uk

BABYLOVE

Big hair (the more tightly crimped the better), big tunes (flooded with synths, obviously) and the Iron Lady... Maggie’s 1980s-inspired bar is all about celebrating that most kitsch of decades.

And now it has brought back the ultimate drink from the years that taste forgot. The Babycham Bar, opening from the end of September, will serve up cocktails with names such as Wham Bam Thank You M’aam, Boom & Bust and Lady In Red. We can’t wait. maggies-club.com

POP!

Three of the best champagnes

1. Perrier- Jouët Belle Epoque, 2004: The famous flowery bottle is enough to make us giddy, but the taste – courtesy of Chardonnay grapes from Cremant – is elegance and refinement itself. Impeccable, its subtle flavours speak of finesse and class.

2. Moët & Chandon Moët Impérial: The House’s iconic champagne is created from over 100 different wines, and then matured in the cellars for 24 months. Tangy and elegant, it’s ideal with seafood and white fish.

3. Piper Hiedsieck Rare: A minerally, intense blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Class itself and a worthy 2011 Champagne Masters gold winner.

ALL AT SEA

This month Harrods’ food hall – that most elaborate of foodie heavens – welcomes a new addition. Seafood enthusiasts shall rejoice as Bentley’s Sea Grill opens its doors to serve up delicious seafood cocktails, as well as the Royal Fish Pie, which was served at the Queen’s 80th, no less. We are amused. harrods.com 79

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30/08/2012 15:27

FOOD&TRAVEL

Restaurant REVIEWS

Absolutely two of the best Mediterranean eateries

ZIA TERESA

S

ettled snugly into the looming shadows of Harrods is Zia Teresa, Knightsbridge’s much-acclaimed neighbourhood Italian destination.

There’s a welcome lack of pretension to the establishment, which is obvious as soon as you enter; from the jolly, bantering staff to the rustic décor, this feels like the sort of trattoria that you’d be delighted to find anywhere in Italy, and so discovering it in an area synonymous with eye-watering prices is a particularly welcome surprise.

The menu offers all the usual options that you’d expect from a top-notch Italian restaurant. Starters of meltingly creamy burrata and ravioli al gorgonzola are not, perhaps, for those on a stringent diet, but they’re perfectly cooked and just the right size. They segue nicely into mains of beautifully soft and tender calves’ liver with butter and sage, and a truly enormous dish of fritto misto, offering a cavalcade

of calamari, white bait and king prawns, all topped off with a salad on the side. By dessert, you’ll practically be begging for mercy – a (very fine) shared tiramisu was all that we could muster at this point.

There’s a good all-Italian wine list, with a crisp, dry Gavi di Gavi and a fine Venetian Cabernet/Merlot blend being two of the standouts, and of course it wouldn’t be a proper Italian meal without a glass of Amaretto to finish things off with. But what elevates this from very good to great is the staff. Our waiter, Paco, offered candid comments on everything from our choices of dish to where, exactly, in Italy produces the best wine. At one point, he even sighed ‘Oh, how I’d love to sit down and have a glass with you myself.’ It would have been our pleasure and privilege had he, or any of the other charmers who worked here, done so.

6 Hans Road, SW3, 020 7589 7634; ziateresa.co.uk

CASA BRINDISA

B

usy, bustling and bursting with life, this Spanish restaurant, tucked away behind the museumlined streets of South Kensington, does its country proud. As does its head chef, Leo Rivera, whose freshly prepared tapas and passion for food has seen Brindisa soar to success in London.

The menu buzzes with an everchanging selection of dishes – and an excellent list of wines and sherries to boot. The fresh tomato gazpacho and the trampó and bacalao green pepper, onion and tomato salad provided refreshing light starts to the meal.

The daring albóndigas con sepia mar y muntaya (meatballs with cuttlefish) took things up a tasty, notch as did the pulpo a la gallega Galacian style octopus with potatoes and pimentón, which was gorgeously fresh and packed with flavour. The excellent Iberian charcuterie sang of the country itself with dishes including Lomito (gorgeously tender Iberico acorn-fed end of the loin) and the generously portioned plate of pimentón seasoned cured meat.

Vegetarians are also not forgotten.

The lightly wilted Catalan spinach cleverly complemented with pine nuts and raisins provided a juicy addition, while the patatas brava o aioli (fried potatoes with aioli) provided a warming kick to the affair.

The desserts triumphed. The quesada la bauma baked goats curd cheesecake was soft and fluffy with a sophisticated quince syrup while the prettily presented chocolate mousse was sublime, served with delicious home-baked shortbread. Yet it was the strawberry and pineapple ice creams which surprisingly came out on top, boasting just the right amount of sweetness and proving the perfect way to round off the authentic flavours.

7-9 Exhibition Road, SW7, 020 7590 0008; brindisa.com

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30/08/2012 16:40

Don’t miss out on truly special moments at Maroush this Summer…

Need a moment for relaxa- Looking to spend quality time Is there a party spirit in you? Or is it the time for a bit of tion during a hectic shop- with friends and family? adventure and exploration?

Then make Maroush II on Beauping trip in Knightsbridge Come and enjoy a fine dining ex- champ Place your post-clubbing Yes, you can have it at the newly or Kensington?

Take a break and pop into your nearest Ranoush branch. Relax and savour our traditional favourites: Mezze, Shawarma baked dishes and sweets, and your choice of freshly squeezed juice cocktails or wine to complement your meal. If you’re in Mayfair or on Oxford Street, Maroush V on Vere Street (near Bond Street) is within walking distance offering the same fresh fare.

perience at the classy and modern Maroush V where you’ll be treated to authentic Lebanese food cooked to perfection using only the best quality natural ingredients. The ground floor is energetic and buzzy, and the basement is particularly lively at night, when live music and belly dancing pick things up. The mezzanine is the perfect date spot, quieter and more intimate.

destination! Believe it or not, you’ll find it packed at 3 AM! So come by and see and be seen at the celebrity hotspot that Maroush II is… and just to make sure that you don’t miss out on your favourite Shawarma or Shish Taouk sandwich, we’re open until 5 AM! If the West End is where you find yourself, Maroush V is also open until 5 AM (Th-Sat, 2 AM on other days) for your after dance and party meal!

opened Maroush Bakehouse! This is where East meets West: combining Lebanese, artisan and international breads baked daily on our premises with the best of our real Mediterranean dishes you’ll enjoy magical treats of tasty food and fresh bread. With two branches on Earls Court and Beauchamp Place, make the Maroush Bakehouse your source of your daily bread as well.

Because these are YOUR moments, make them memorable this summer at Maroush

Maroush, 4 Vere Street, W1G - T. 020 7493 3030 / 38 Beauchamp Place, SW3 - T. 020 7581 5434 Maroush Bakehouse, 131 Earls Court Road, SW5 - T. 020 7370 4324 / 38 Beauchamp Place, SW3 - T. 020 7581 5434 Ranoush, 2 Brompton Road, SW2 - T. 020 7584 6999 / 86 High Street Kensington, W8 - T. 020 7938 2234 www.maroush.com

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FOOD&TRAVEL THE HOTEL:

The Isles of Scilly, off the south-western tip of Cornwall, may be a train, coach, plane, mini-bus and boat ride away but the peace and quiet prevalent throughout this gorgeous archipelago makes it more than worth the journey. Hell Bay hotel on Bryher, the smallest of the islands, is socalled because of the crashing waves that sweep in from the Atlantic – waves that have sunk no less than 530 ships through the years. The hotel, which is secluded in its own cove, is all cream and blue interiors and white-painted windows that open out on to blinding blue sea. There isn’t much else on this particular island to see or visit – a shop, a café and a smattering of New England-style houses – but its allure lies in the long walks to be had across craggy rocks and grassy knolls, plus paddling in shallow waters. Going to Hell and back has never been this enjoyable.

Hell Bay, UK GETAWAY

Scilly Isles

THE SPA:

THE BEDROOMS:

Hell Bay has a boutique total of 25 wellconsidered suites, all of which are perfectly formed: our studio suite was ridiculously spacious with double doors and a small balcony overlooking the Atlantic – a view that will invigorate even the most soporific of guests. Beach house chic runs throughout, with wood and wicker in blues and beige, scenes of Scilly hanging on walls, Malabar fabrics and Lloyd Loom furniture.

In addition to the bottle of champagne that awaited us on arrival, there was also a well-stocked mini-bar and coffee station.

Satellite television and DVD players come as standard.

GET THERE:

A regular service runs between London Waterloo and Bristol Parkway, after which, catch a flight from Bristol Airport to St. Mary’s. From there, hop aboard a ferry to Bryher via Tresco.

PRICE TAG:

Suites at Hell Bay start from £135 per adult per night on a half-board basis, including boat transfers to/from the hotel. To book (and for travel options) contact 01720 422947 or hellbay.co.uk

There’s no on-site spa per se, but there is a separate building that houses all you need to rest and recharge. Here you can burn off one too many seafood suppers in the small gym, work up a sweat in the sauna or take a dip in the whirlpool. There’s also a heated outdoor pool with sun loungers, but if you’re more about clothes-on kicking back, a living room with pool table, board games, and Guitar Hero for aspiring Claptons is sure to stave off boredom.

THE RESTAUR ANT:

Heading up the Hell Bay kitchen is Richard Kearsley, who uses fresh, seasonal ingredients: expect beef from Tresco and crab from Bryher, and dishes such as Cornish mackerel and fillet of hake. Breakfast is just as delicious – from the full English to salmon so fresh you half expect it to wrangle free from the hollandaise. There are even chickens on-site, just in case you feel like getting your own eggs in the morning. For a change of scenery, those staying longer than a couple of nights should not miss an opportunity to hop on the ferry to Tresco and lunch at Ruin Beach Café at Sea Garden Cottages.

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30/08/2012 23:21

CARRY ON GLAMPING TRAVEL ROUND UP

Ditch the hotels for back to basics comfort…

THE YURT AT MIDLAND FARM

HEREFORDSHIRE For most people, camping involves a general understanding that luxury is sacrificed for a more back-to-basics few days. But there’s no such need for compromise here in Herefordshire, where Sarah and Charlie Smith, who own the beautiful Midland Farm, have seen to it that your stay in their grounds will be just as – if not more – comfortable than your own home. Amid 1.25-acres of their perfectly manicured gardens (which have featured on the cover of the Royal Horticultural Society magazine), sits an exceedingly, if surprisingly, comfortable ‘glamping’ yurt. It comes with its own adjacent shepherd’s hut, which means guests, who never have to share their plot of land with anyone else, enjoy a

fully equipped kitchen, fridge, cooker and full bathroom. The yurt is authentic, Mongolian and felt-lined: it sleeps two children in two singles and two adults in a beautiful antique French bed. There’s bed linen aplenty, a wood burning stove and a BBQ area, plus a plant nursery, nearby horses, free-range chickens and abundant peace. Nearby, you’re spoilt for choice; enjoy The Griffin at Felin Fach for sensational Welsh grub, and while you’re there, why not hop into the ‘town of books’, Hay-on-Wye, home to the annual star-studded literary festival. Or, simply stay at the yurt and book yourself in for some horse-riding. It’s the perfect place to learn.

From £180 for a weekend in the low season (1 Oct – 30 April), including breakfast.

01892 750 288; mollydishwasher.com

MOLLY DISHWASHER

EAST SUSSEX ‘Where camping meets boutique hotel’, rings the Molly Dishwasher website – and the description couldn’t be more accurate.

A stay at this wonderfully quaint little home on wheels means not only to losing yourself amid the peaceful surroundings of the beautiful East Sussex woodland, but also in the pretty upholstery which makes the interior of this luxurious cabin, which sleeps two adults and two children, so welcoming. Wellies come with the home, as do logs for the essential wood burner, linen, towels, coal for the BBQ , a travel cot (if needed), children’s activity packs, bicycles for hire and an outside seating area. Meanwhile, you’re only ever 80 yards away from an exclusive fitted kitchen, a well-stocked bathroom and shower, making this the ultimate in rough luxe.

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FOOD&TRAVEL

MOLLY DISHWASHER SUNNY BROW FARM

THE YURT AT MIDLAND FARM

There’s a choice for breakfast, too. You can opt for it to arrive straight to your door in the morning (with a newspaper in a basket – the best way to breakfast in bed), or for the more DIY customer meanwhile, there’s also the opportunity to pick your own eggs from the coup just around the corner, the clucking hens completing the bucolic picture. Molly Dishwater really is a unique holiday destination; its truly rural surrounds belie the fact that it is positioned just five miles south of Royal Tunbridge Wells, which makes it a doddle to get to either by car or train. After all, the 70-acres in which your temporary rustic idyll is situated envelops you from the very moment your step in.

From £180 for a weekend in the low season (1 Oct – 30 April), including breakfast.

01892 750 288; mollydishwasher.com

SUNNY BROW FARM

CUMBRIA Stay in a woodland yurt at Sunny Brow Farm, and you’re likely to never want to camp in a conventional tent and sleeping bag ever again. Set in rural Cumbria, between the quaint town of Ambleside and the sleepy village of Hawkshead, the owners Suzy and Philip are guaranteed to make your stay as much about the surrounding nature and wildlife, as it is about sleeping in the wild under the stars.

Fields roll and roll around the two unique yurts that are up for grabs: they sleep two to four people and their open-plan construction means the small kitchen, small stove, traditional log burner, king size and two single beds come together to create a comfortable, cosy and homely living space. Outside, there’s a dining table, fire circle and small gas BBQ fit for

long summer nights, while the shower room and bathroom are only 100m walk away. There are plenty of activities in which to get involved away from your snug home, including mountain biking, which takes place in Grizedale Forest, Rock Climbing in Kendal, the Tarn Hows walk, woodpecker, badger and deer watching from the farm itself, fishing in the tarn and cookery courses, too, which run according to what is in season. In fact, Sunny Brow Farm is so organised, it has a contingency plan in the form of Langdale Hotel and Country Club (which offers swimming pools and restaurants) in case the weather is rotten.

But chances are, you won’t stay away long.

A weekend or mid-break prices range between £225 and £285; a week’s stay is between £350 and £425; 01539436288015394; sunnybrowfarm.co.uk 85

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30/08/2012 18:23

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30/08/2012 22:01

FOOD&TRAVEL

Viva Mexico Angela Sacre submits to the seductive powers of Cancun five-star luxury

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W

ho, of sound mind, wouldn’t leap like one tenth of the proverbial lords at the chance of swapping the capricious English summer in favour of Le Blanc Hotel and Spa, a five-star resort in Cancun? After all, there is the scorching Mexican heat and the possibility of doing absolutely nothing for whole days except snoozing and Margarita sipping. Don’t even start on the celestial tranquility, or the staff who cater to every spoilt whim, rendering you so infantalised that you literally have to learn how to sit upright again. Who could possibly resist?

Me, that’s who. I never stay at all-inclusive resorts (all that pre-conceived fear of being incarcerated within a sinister complex, like something out of The Prisoner, forbidden to visit any local sights or experience the outside

world). But – reasoned the intrepid traveller inside – there was nothing to stop me from exploring beyond the bounds of the hotel. I was free, right? I could take up local customs for a week and break out of the behavioural standard if needed.

I was totally deluded, it turns out. Once delivered into this cocoon of boundless luxury, it becomes evident my fears are completely founded – although you will not hear me blaming the hotel.

Nothing was preventing me from venturing further. Nothing, other than my own growing sense of deep, untroubled relaxation and a desire to remain horizontal at all costs, which I hadn’t betted on. But when you consider that Le Blanc is ranked at number three in a recent poll of the world’s top ten all-inclusive resorts, it’s hardly that surprising.

Comfort is paramount here.

Every night my own personal butler, Alex – present for the pure purpose of servicing my needs – runs me a Jacuzzi bath and, almost unbelievably, offers a pillow menu that consists of options like orthopaedic, goose-feather, lavender or chamomile. Needless to say, insomnia is not a complaint which troubles guests here. The pillows, the Caribbean breeze floating in from the balcony and the petits fours at bedtime – all add up to a blissfully soporific cocktail.

As for activities? The most you’re likely to exert yourself is via the walk to the plush lounge chairs on the private white sand beach, or the single bicep curl of lifting a

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FOOD&TRAVEL

Le Blanc is ranked at number three in a recent poll of the world’s top ten all-inclusive resorts chilled cocktail served by the pool concierge.

There’s always a bit of scuba diving or poolside volleyball, but really? I recommend completing the full regression and letting the days pass in a blissed-out haze.

Meanwhile, the excellent Le Blanc Spa blends Asian and European traditions.

My therapist Angelica gives me the most thorough and de-stressing massage of my life. Sunbathing opportunities abound, with three luxurious pools to stretch out beside (including two infinity pools with swim-up bars); plus there’s a fully-equipped fitness centre and a health spa.

There are eight on-site restaurants offering an impressive global selection and with a staff-to-guest ratio of almost one-to-one, this adults-only resort epitomises luxury.

Despite being fully indoctrinated into the whole package, I did manage to briefly regain control of my motor cortex to visit the Mayan temples of Chichen Itza. But shockingly, I couldn’t stop thinking about the Jacuzzi. To quote the mantra of all cult followers, ‘I am a convert, not a prisoner.’

I’ll keep telling myself that. leblancsparesort.com 91

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FOOD&TRAVEL

TRAVEL NOTES

PARADISE FOUND

The Maldives are breath-takingly, jaw-slackeningly idyllic, their swathes of white sand and transparently clear waters making visitors feel like they’ve stepped into a pre-lapsarian world. All of which, ensures it is, of course, perennially popular with honeymooners and romantics. But now the Anantara Dhigu Resort and Spa has launched a family package, available until 9 January 2013, which includes access to the Dhoni Kids Club where children can discover the indigenous wildlife of the island, play pirates on a traditional Maldivan sailboat and be introduced to local games.

Book through dhigu-maldives.anantara.com

HAVE YACHTS

VICTORIOUS VICEROY

The new Viceroy Maldives on Vagaru Island is now officially open, and nothing about the five-star resort is short of breath-taking. Each of the 61 beach-front villas stands directly on the white sands and is equipped with its own private plunge pool, while all culinary palates are provided for, with five restaurants which rustle up the gamut from the Asian to European-inspired. Prices start from $1,350 (£865) within a Beach Villa, based on double occupancy and including daily breakfast for two; viceroyhotelsandresorts.com/maldives

The Sea Dream Yacht Club has a simple but effective slogan: ‘It’s yachting, not cruising’. Anyone who sets foot on board one of its luxurious super-yachts can expect to met by the most lavish breed of hospitality, which takes in everything from complimentary caviar and à la carte restaurants both inside and out, to spa therapists and expertly mixed cocktails.

With nearly two staff per passenger, every wish and whim is promptly catered to, making this a very bespoke brand of portable luxe that travels with you as you sail sun-kissed destinations in Europe and beyond. Nothing else really comes close.

Call 0800 783 1373, using code SDAC1; seadream.com

FASHION PLATE

Paul Smith – one of our most successful fashion exports and king of the multi-colour stripe – now takes his genius eye to Milan, where he has collaborated with the Park Hyatt to create a selection of 200 limited-edition serving plates for its gourmet restaurant VUN. Says Smith: ‘The idea with the design was to give a hand-painted rather than graphic feeling to the dish. As with a lot of our designs we try to make them feel more artisan rather than computer generated.’ hyatt.com 92

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28/06/2012 12:08

30/08/2012 20:27

Sponsored dog walk in aid of Cancer Research UK Support a great cause with the help of your best friend!

...a sponsored dog walk in Notting Hill

...a sponsored dog walk in Notting Hill

...a sponsored dog walk in Notting Hill

...a sponsored dog walk in Notting Hill

Saturday 29th September...a sponsored dog walk Saturday 29th in Notting HillSeptember at 1pm to 5pm

Saturday 29th September ...a sponsored dog walk in Notting Hill at 1pm to 5pm

at 1pm to 5pm

Saturday 29th September

Support a great cause with the help ofSaturday 29th Support a great cause with the help of September your best friend! your best friend! at 1pm to 5pm

Support a great cause with the help of your best friend!

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At Wormwood scrubs Park (adjacent to Hammersmith Hospital in Du Cain Rd) ...a sponsored dog walk in Notting Hill

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ABSOLUTELY Chelsea

This event is kindly organised by a supporter of Cancer Research UK. Any concerns or queries about the event should be directed to the organiser of the event is kindly organised a supporter of Cancer Research UK. Any concerns or queries about the event should be directed to the organiser of the event whose contact details can be found by visiting the website address above. Cancer Research UK is notThis liable for any loss suffered by by anyone as a result of event whose contact details can be found by visiting the website address above. Cancer Research UK is not liable for any loss suffered by anyone as a result of their attendance at the event. Registered as a charity in England and Wales No 1089464 and Scotland SC041666. their attendance at the event. Registered as a charity in England and Wales No 1089464 and Scotland SC041666.

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This event is kindly organised by a supporter of Cancer event whose contact details can be found by visiting the their attendance at the event. Registered as a charity in E

This event is kindly organised by a supporter of Cancer Research UK. Any concerns or queries about the event should be directed to the organiser of the event whose contact details can be found by visiting the website address above. Cancer Research UK is not liable for any loss suffered by anyone as a result of their attendance at the event. Registered as a charity in England and Wales No 1089464 and Scotland SC041666.

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28/08/2012 12:49

ABSOLUTELY PROPERTY SEPTEMBER 2012

RUTLAND GATE, KNIGHTSBRIDGE, SW7 A modern two bedroom apartment situated in Knightsbridge offering a spacious open open plan living area, two bedrooms and a bathroom. This period apartment benefits from a lift and access to communal gardens.

2 Bedrooms, 1 Reception, 1 Bathrooms, Apartment Upper Floor with Lift, Communal Garden, 646 Approx Sq ft

020 7584 7020 knightsbridge@carterjonas.co.uk

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Bramerton Street SW3 £3,150,000 This wonderful freehold house is located on a very quiet Chelsea street, just off the King’s Road. Arranged over three floors, this property features a large double reception room that leads out to a small terrace and down to a pretty patio garden below, a fabulous dining room, kitchen, three double bedrooms, two bathrooms and a stunning roof top terrace. Freehold. 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

Bovingdon Road SW6 £2,150,000 This exceptional property has recently undergone a complete programme of refurbishment and is beautifully presented throughout. Offering well balanced accommodation, the house includes a ground floor reception room, a kitchen/dining room complete with concertina doors leading out to a private patio garden, a further lower ground floor reception room, a large master bedroom with en suite shower room, five further bedrooms (one en suite) and a family bathroom. Freehold.

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

PROFILE

IMAGES COURTESY: BASEMENT-LIVING.CO.UK

Property News

RUTH BLOOMFIELD ON BASEMENT BATTLES Undignified public slanging matches, threats of legal action, and firm friendships shattered. Welcome to life in some of west London’s most expensive streets, where battle lines have been drawn over basement extensions. Oddly enough, the vogue for ‘iceberg’ homes has been boosted by the recession. It is now so difficult to move house that in certain circles, dropping a minimum £250,000 to burrow underground has started to look like a positive bargain. Of course it is easy to get sneery about the owners of gazillion pound properties close to the Notting Hill house of former Chelsea Football Club chief executive Peter Kenyon or the Kensington pad of Take That star Howard Donald weeping bitter tears over the aggravation caused by their basement projects. But it is also true that months of noise, vibration, streets blocked by lorries, dust coating windows and cars, and the spectre of structural damage are enough to turn the most neighbourly amongst us into the Incredible Hulk. Kensington and Chelsea Council has now bolted the stable door after the horse has long bolted with some weak proposals to restrict future development. But perhaps the real answer lies in a compensation scheme for neighbours who are inconvenienced by building work of any kind. Because, while money isn’t everything, a decent cheque in the post can sweeten most pills – and would at least pay for window cleaning and ear plugs for the duration.

LONDON VS L.A. ED MEAD, DOUGLAS & GORDON

I’m wandering about a bit dazed, listening to languages being spoken all around that I don’t understand.

I’m not in any upmarket central London estate agency but in LA, and it’s coming here that’s reminded me what a fabulous place London is, in particular Chelsea. Besides the fact that we can stuff it up the yanks having done the Olympics better than they ever have (OK, the rocket man in ‘84 was the single coolest event in any games), somehow London just seems so manageable after revisiting the vastness of this place.

Although Chelsea in particular has become more and more diverse over the last few years – I think to its benefit – it retains a cohesive atmosphere partly by dint of its relatively small size but also owing to the feeling that someone is running the place well. It’s all very well pointing out that it’s property prices are some of the highest in the world but that’s because people want to live there. If you want to do anything in London it’s a few minutes’ drive to go anywhere; in L.A it’s an hour in a car just to visit your neighbour. Both cities defy pigeon-holing and the upmarket areas in both certainly have their attractions – I suppose ultimately I can think of some bits of Santa Monica and Malibu I could see myself wanting to live in. But could I realistically put up with the rest of the place... not so sure.

Having nervously flown out, without any hassles as it happened, the day after the Olympics, I’d forgotten until reminded by many out here what a success the games have been. I also had to face questions about the riots a year ago and couldn’t finish this piece without hoping very much that the warmth generated over that fabulous fortnight will repair the damage, and it would seem from conversations with those who know that insecurity only too well that it has.

Let’s hope so, as with the summer having meandered somewhat, autumn needs to deliver. 020 7225 1225, dng.co.uk

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PROPERTY

Absolutely

SW6 Tom Ward, director, Aspire

BEST RESTAURANT

I have a certain soft spot for Chinese, and Mao Tai on the New King’s Road just by Parsons Green is possibly the best Chinese you can eat. Highly recommended for a special occasion.

MOST STYLISH SHOP

Indian Summer on the Fulham Road. Now I know this shop is somewhat aimed at a different gender, but my wife loves it and she has bucket loads more style than me, so I trust her judgement.

FINEST PLACE FOR A COCKTAIL

Amuse Bouche is for the cocktail purist. No fancy palm trees hanging out of oversized glasses, just good, sophisticated champagne cocktails.

BEST KEPT SECRET

Fulham Palace. I find it amazing how few people have actually been there and enjoyed a bite to eat in the cafe overlooking Bishop Henry Compton’s botanical gardens.

LOST HOUR...

If only! If I were fortunate enough to come across one of these mythical ‘lost hours’ you’d find me in Bon Bon deli chewing on a fantastic pesto and parma wrap, reading the paper.

MOST FABULOUS PROPERTY

Chiddingstone Street. This house excelled on all levels. Put it this way: the Bang & Olfsen surround sound sterio in all rooms was just the start.

020 7736 6110, aspire.co.uk

THE VIEWS...

HARRY BUCHANAN, JACKSON STOPS Central London has certainly been quiet over the last month, but that is not unusual for this time of year and was predicted by many agents given the unusual quality of 2012. July and August traditionally see a slow-down in buyer activity and perhaps an increase in administrative work! That said though, looking at last year and the previous years, figures were only fractionally down on the number of deals exchanged in the summer months; so on reflection this is a pretty good result, especially given the value of the property sold has greatly increased! So in conclusion, the market continues to grow, demand is still strong and having spoken with many of my competitors over the last few weeks, we are all confident that the September/October markets will be as busy as the first fiscal quarter.

020 7828 4050, jackson-stops.co.uk

COMMENT FROM NICK HUBBARD, MANAGER, BENHAM AND REEVES RESIDENTIAL LETTINGS Rental demand in Knightsbridge and Chelsea has been very high this year. We experienced a record-breaking second quarter of the year, concluding our highest ever number of tenancies in a single quarter, and this pattern has continued through the summer months with a bumper July. August was quieter than usual, a lot of people stayed away because of the Olympics, but that was expected.

Demand has spanned the rental market, from one-bed apartments to luxury, high-end properties. At the top end of the market, uber-luxe development The Knightsbridge remains a big draw for higher budgets, with two-bedroom apartments securing good rentals of £2,000 per week from corporates, wealthy individuals and foreign royalty.

020 7581 2112; brlets.co.uk

THE SOCIAL NETWORK

Martin & Co Chelsea & Riverside held its first networking event for London Relocation Agents earlier this summer. They were invited to meet new industry colleagues, and help open the new office on Cremorne Road. Following on from the success of this, the office is delighted to be hosting an event for local landlords later this month. ‘We have been based in the area for the past nine years, and the support of the local residents is very important to us’ says director Michael van de Vyver. martincochelsea.co.uk 101

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Offices throughout the UK including 5 in London

carterjonas.co.uk

KNIGHTSBRIDGE

KNIGHTSBRIDGE

Basil Street SW3

Sydney Place SW7

An immaculate contemporary two double bedroom flat in a well maintained portered building in the heart of Knightsbridge.

A fantastic opportunity to rent a first floor newly refurbished flat in a period stucco fronted building with beautiful high ceilings and full length windows making it bright and spacious.

Spacious reception room • Kitchen • 2 double bedrooms 2 bathrooms • Porter

Double reception room • Modern eat-in kitchen • Utility area 2 double bedrooms • 3 bathrooms • Balcony • Communal gardens

£1,295 per week Unfurnished

£1,050 per week Unfurnished

Knightsbridge & Chelsea 020 7584 7020 knightsbridge@carterjonas.co.uk

Knightsbridge & Chelsea 020 7584 7020 knightsbridge@carterjonas.co.uk

KNIGHTSBRIDGE

KNIGHTSBRIDGE

Park Mansions SW1

The Knightsbridge SW7

A modern and spacious three double bedroom flat on the fifth floor of this well located portered building in Knightsbridge.

Ideal for families.

An incredible furnished three bedroom apartment on the first floor, situated in a very prestigious block in Knightsbridge, with 24 hour porters and an on-site gym & swimming pool.

Reception • Fully equipped eat-in kitchen • 3 double bedrooms 3 bathrooms • Lift • Porter

Reception room • Kitchen • Cloakroom • 3 bedrooms 3 bathrooms • Gym • Pool • Porter

£1,325 per week Unfurnished

£3,200 per week Furnished/unfurnished

Knightsbridge & Chelsea 020 7584 7020 knightsbridge@carterjonas.co.uk

Knightsbridge & Chelsea 020 7584 7020 knightsbridge@carterjonas.co.uk

FULL PAGE.indd 1

28/08/2012 18:28

KNIGHTSBRIDGE

KNIGHTSBRIDGE

Pont Street SW1

Lennox Gardens SW1

A recently refurbished one bedroom flat on the second floor of a handsome period building in the heart of Knightsbridge.

The property benefits from wooden flooring and ample storage throughout.

A fabulous, fully furnished studio flat situated on the fourth floor and has undergone an exceptional refurbishment that has maximised the living space.

Studio • Reception room • Kitchen • Bathroom

Reception room • Kitchen • Double bedroom • Bathroom

£790 per week

Unfurnished

£550 per week Furnished

Knightsbridge & Chelsea 020 7584 7020 knightsbridge@carterjonas.co.uk

Knightsbridge & Chelsea 020 7584 7020 knightsbridge@carterjonas.co.uk

KNIGHTSBRIDGE

SOUTH KENSINGTON

Ennismore Gardens SW7

Cornwall Mews West SW7

A stunning apartment on one of Knightsbridge’s premier garden squares. This bright property is laid out over the top two floors and has been refurbished to a high standard.

A charming three bedroom mews house situated just off Cornwall Gardens with wood floors and a private garage.

Reception room • Open-plan kitchen • 3 bedrooms 3 bathrooms • Balcony

Reception room • Modern kitchen • 3 double bedrooms 2 bathrooms • Garage

£1,295 per week Furnished

£950 per week Furnished/unfurnished

Knightsbridge & Chelsea 020 7584 7020 knightsbridge@carterjonas.co.uk

Knightsbridge & Chelsea 020 7584 7020 knightsbridge@carterjonas.co.uk

FULL PAGE.indd 1

28/08/2012 18:29

Offices throughout the UK including 5 in London

Our London offices are open on Saturday between 10am – 3pm

FULL PAGE.indd 1

30/08/2012 13:28

carterjonas.co.uk

PIMLICO

Westmoreland Place SW1 A contemporary and intelligently reconfigured double fronted period house that has been opened up to create four bedrooms and superb reception space, including an unusual and versatile top floor with a sliding glass roof.

Approximately 3,207 sq ft (excluding vaults) and 3,301 sq ft (including vaults) • 3 reception rooms 4/5 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms • Shower room • Wine cellar • Utility room • Cloakroom

Guide price £3,750,000 Freehold

Knightsbridge & Chelsea 020 7584 7020 knightsbridge@carterjonas.co.uk

FULL PAGE.indd 1

30/08/2012 13:29

In their own words Andrew Everill, associate director at Bective Leslie Marsh and Polo, his canine chum

olo and I are frequent walkers on the main streets and quiet backwaters of SW3. Having worked in property for over 25 years, I am very aware of the charm and character of this area.

In my opinion, Chelsea is the best address in central London and as such, it fittingly played a major role in the Olympic Games which will most likely be renowned as the best in history.

Visitors were treated and dazzled by the myriad of sporting events across London and the wonderful backdrop the capital created. There was plenty of excitement around our office, especially when the Olympic flame arrived on the King’s Road carried by the comedy duo from Absolutely Fabulous – Jennifer Saunders and Joanna Lumley.

Such a huge global audience can only add to Chelsea’s appeal and London’s reputation as a trendy, friendly and safe place to live. Most of all, it will encourage the world’s business community to continue its investment in the capital.

Inward foreign investment has been huge, and terms such as ‘wealth protection’ and ‘safe haven’ are commonplace on every buyer’s lips.

Nowhere is this truer than in Chelsea and Knightsbridge. It seems that foreign buyers from all parts of the world simply cannot resist London.

September is traditionally the time when people return from holiday and refocus their attention on moving, and so I am expecting activity to pick up sharply after the holiday lag.

I believe supply will remain low and demand high – which is good for sellers.

However I remain a little concerned by the government’s recent increase in stamp duty which will probably reduce the tax take, not increase it. This is particularly punitive for offshore companies.

London has prospered by being the world’s financial capital and I believe that our economic policies should encourage trade, not deter it.

My parents moved frequently when I was younger and this was what inspired me to begin a career in property. I have worked in the industry for over 25 years, mainly focused on prime central London and country houses. I enjoy every part of the process; from the interaction one has with clients at the first inquiry to the satisfaction of completion.

I have been a Chelsea fixture in property now for over ten years and I could not imagine a more fascinating and beautiful area to work in.

Andrew Everill Bective Leslie Marsh 66 Chiltern Street, W1U 020 7589 6677 ae@bectivelesliemarsh.co.uk

‘‘

‘‘

P

PHOTO: RICHARD CLARKE

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PROPERTY

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29/08/2012 11:39

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Walton Street SW3

A stunning architecturally designed apartment

A

spacious newly renovated two double bedroom upper maisonette with its own street entrance, plenty of entertaining space and a pretty south facing roof terrace. Perfectly situated for access to Knightsbridge, Sloane Square and South Kensington.

Two double bedrooms : Two bathrooms : Large eat in kitchen : Spacious reception room leading to south facing roof terrace : Subject to contract

0207 584 1100

chelsea@engelvoelkers.com

ÂŁ2,395,000 SUBJECT TO CONTRACT

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30/08/2012 12:11 15:46 24/05/2012

RUTLAND GARDENS, SW7 PRICE ON APPLICATION

Superbly positioned right next to the verdant pastures of Hyde Park, this apartment – in a much sought-after portered building – has all the bells and whistles one would expect from the exclusive address. In addition to its impressively sized four bedrooms (three of which are en-suite), there is beautiful solid oak flooring throughout, private parking, excellent security and use of the communal gym.

Through Cluttons; 020 7584 1771; cluttons.com

portfolio Property

Absolutely the most luxuriously appointed properties on the market in our manor

CORNWALL MEWS SOUTH, CHELSEA £2,350,000 F/H

Th is stunning three-floor mews house in a charming South Kensington mews was completely rebuilt in 2008. The reimagined house now has a large atrium which provides daylight throughout the house, as well as a superb reception room which stretches across the entire fi rst floor.

The property also comprises a sizeable dining room, kitchen, two bedrooms, each with an en suite shower or bathroom, a cloakroom, utility room, plus that covetable thing: a roof terrace.

Situated south of Cornwall Gardens, just off Greville Place, South Kensington and Gloucester Road tube stations are close by.

Through Lurot Brand; 020 7590 9955; lurotbrand.co.uk 112

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PROPERTY

COTTESMORE GARDENS, W8 £2,750 P/W

Cottesmore Gardens is an elegant and peaceful street only a short walk from Kensington High Street, or Gloucester Road in the other direction. This property is a newly refurbished 2200sqft maisonette on the raised- and garden-floors of a period building. The layout works particularly well for a family with a live-in nanny, and of further note is the excellently sized south-facing private garden of approximately 1400sqft. Available now, unfurnished.

Through STANLEY Chelsea; 020 7352 9556; stanleychelsea.co.uk

PARADISE WALK, CHELSEA, SW3 £1,650,000 F/H

This charming two-bedroom house (previously three-bedroom) is situated on a sought-after quiet residential street in the heart of Old Chelsea. Arranged over three floors, the house has beautiful French doors leading onto a courtyard garden, as well as a west-facing roof terrace. The property is positioned to the south of the King’s Road, and happily close to the river. The short commute to Sloane Square Tube station is under a mile.

Through Chapeltons; 020 7351 1686; chapeltons.com

UP YOUR STREET With Ivor Campbell Davis, Strutt & Parker LLP

A

PARK MANSIONS, SW1X £1,325 P/W

This modern and spacious three-double bedroom flat is on the fifth floor – with lift – of a well-situated portered building in Knightsbridge. There’s a large reception room, plus a modern fully equipped eat-in kitchen with a utility area containing a separate washing machine and a dryer, both of which make it ideal for families. The master bedroom has plenty of built-in storage and an en-suite bathroom, while the second double bedroom also has an en suite shower room, plus there’s an additional family bathroom.

The property is neutrally decorated and carpeted throughout. The property is offered unfurnished. Through Carter Jonas LLP; 020 7584 7020; carterjonas.co.uk

n architectdesigned and immaculately presented fourbedroom house moments from Parsons Green.

The house, which was recently renovated, offers excellent entertaining space and benefits from a purpose-built top floor, providing excellent bedrooms. The property is situated on the favoured mid-stretch of Bishops Road, between the junctions with Clonmel and Winchendon Roads.

It therefore has excellent shopping and transport facilities on its doorstep, including Parsons Green and Fulham Broadway. The open spaces of Eel Brook Common and Parsons Green are also a mere trot away.

Through Strutt and Parker; 020 7731 7100; struttandparker.com 113

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PROFILE PROPERTY

Moving in Nothing’s better than the inside scoop.

Local agents give their recommendations...

INTERIORS

KIDS

STREET

LOCAL HANG OUT

YOU DIDN’T KNOW THIS ABOUT...

TIME OUT FOR MUMS

Patrick Bullick, managing director, Stanley Chelsea 020 7352 9556 stanleychelsea.co.uk Many of our clients buy investment properties and need help to project manage any refurbishment works.

I never hesitate to recommend Catherine Wilman Interiors. She has a knack for achieving an excellent finish while keeping a sharp eye on the costs.

020 7460 7476; catherinewilman.com

Nancy Saleh, lettings manager, Engel & Völkers London 020 7590 3700 engelvoelkers.com The Markham Inn for Sunday brunch or dinner is the place to go. The food is delicious – it changes its menu every so often to keep it interesting. There are also books scattered around the seating area, making the atmosphere really cosy.

020 75819139, themarkhaminn.com

Tom Ward, director, Aspire Fulham Ltd 020 7736 6110 aspire.co.uk As part of our charity work, Aspire has been supporting Ray’s Playhouse for a number of years, which is a notfor-profit children’s centre in Sands End, Fulham. It provides inclusive stay and play sessions for under-fives and it costs £3 per family, per visit.

020 7371 9002, raysplayhouse.org

Robert Stewart, manager, Hamptons International 020 7384 1001 hamptons.co.uk In 1669, Samuel Pepys, who commuted by water from his home to his job, recalls ‘playing the rogue with the western boatmen’ in his diaries. Years later, the bridge was built between Fulham and Putney, but today it’s so busy it would in fact be quicker to swim across!

Tom Moses, senior negotiator, Martin & Co Chelsea 020 7351 0387 martinco.com Hollywood Road in little Chelsea is the home of the famous Brinkleys and Hollywood Arms. Just tucked away from the Fulham Road, this bustling little street contains many an ‘It girl’ crash pad hidden behind its stucco fronted doors. brinkleys.com; hollywoodarmschelsea.com

Barclay Macfarlane partner, Strutt & Parker LLP 020 7731 7100 struttandparker.com Much-needed pampering for mums and dads comes in the form of Gina Conway on the Fulham Road. It is famous for its great haircuts, but the in-house day spa packages and massages are great if you need to unwind.

020 7731 7633, ginaconway.co.uk

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Hamptons Fulham Sales. 020 7717 5299 fulham@hamptons.co.uk

Mablethorpe Road, SW6 - £1,185,000 - Freehold Recently and elegantly refurbished throughout with great attention to detail, this is a stunning and immaculately presented four bedroom, three bathroom (two en-suite) family house with beautifully appointed bathrooms, fabulous kitchen/breakfast room, a very stylish bespoke patio garden, and a large walk in loft.

Fulham Road, SW6 - £595,000 - Leasehold This second floor apartment has wood floor throughout, two well proportioned bedrooms, a spacious kitchen/living area with and dual aspect and one newly appointed bathroom and double-glazed sash windows throughout. The apartment would make an excellent London base or a rental investment as it is positioned between Fulham Broadway and the Chelsea border.

Sales • Lettings • New Homes • International • Property Finance • Auctions • Sales • Lettings • New Homes Auctions • Sales • Lettings • Land • New homes • Property Finance • Auctions • Conveyancing • Sales • Lettings Land • New Homes • International • Property Finance • Conveyancing • Sales • Lettings • Land • New homes

HAMPTONS SEPT.indd 2

23/08/2012 14:23

R o se b u ry R o a d

ÂŁ765,000 This stunning three double bedroom, top floor flat has been newly refurbished to an exceptional standard providing an ideal balance of comfort and style.

020 7381 7381

ÂŁ1,249,950

A beautifully finished four bedroom family

home located near the amenities of the

Wandsworth Bridge Road and only a short

walk from Imperial Wharf station.

020 7736 6110

24/08/2012 17:14

Aspire.FINAL.indd 2

Clapham South 020 8673 6111

Battersea 020 7801 3400

Balham 020 8673 6111

Head Office 020 7801 3406

Management Department 020 8772 6300

SW6

C o l eh i l l L a n e

S W6

El s w i ck St reet

SW6

ÂŁ1,225,000 An elegant, five bedroom family home situated in a quiet pocket in Sands End. Arranged over three floors, the house boasts three bathrooms and exceptional living space all complimented by a beautiful private garden.

020 7736 6110

24/08/2012 17:14

Aspire.FINAL.indd 3

Fulham Central 020 7381 7381

Fulham South 020 7736 6110

Tooting Broadway 020 8772 7080

Furzedown 020 8769 7900

Clapham North 020 7801 3400

PROPERTY

Prime purchase

Loft living bathed in natural light, with panoramic views of Knightsbridge

WHAT This top-floor apartment offers a full 360-degree panoramic of Knightsbridge. Perfect for those who covet the trendy, bare-brick Manhattan loft look, the flat has a partially-glazed roof at both the front and rear of the property, allowing the interior to be naturally bathed with light all year round. Outside space is maximised by two terraces looking out on to the street and the communal gardens behind, making it the perfect combination of English period conversion and urban hideaway.

WHERE Situated in Egerton Gardens, just off upmarket Brompton Road, this popular street is lined with period red brick buildings and beautiful, well-kept parks and gardens. Its position also means it’s close to some of the most exclusive shopping and cultural destinations in the world, including Harrods, just a sashay up the Brompton Road. The apartment is also a stone’s throw from a vast array of shops, bars and boutiques and a short walk from underground stations South Kensington and Knightsbridge

WHY The apartment is presented in immaculate condition and boasts roomfuls of that much sought-after real-estate gold: natural light!

DETAILS Large reception area, contemporary kitchen and gratuitous license for half landing storage cupboard. Available from September 2012 for £1,095,000 from Marsh and Parshons, Chelsea.

CONTACT 020 7591 5570; marshandparsons.co.uk

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savills.co.uk

savills.co.uk

1 1 A SUPERB CONTEMPORARY HOUSE burnham market, north norfolk Savills Norwich

Bedfords

Ben Rivett brivett@savills.com

Ben Marchbank bmkt@bedfords.co.uk

ø 241 sq m (2,597 sq ft)

01603 229256

01328 730500

Fabulous open plan kitchen/dining/sitting room ø 5 bedrooms Guide £1.2 million ø 3 bathrooms ø off-street parking ø secluded landscaped garden ø within walking distance of the Market Place ø 241 sq m (2,597 sq ft)

Savills Norwich

Bedfords

Ben Rivett brivett@savills.com

Ben Marchbank bmkt@bedfords.co.uk

01603 229256

01328 730500

Fabulous open plan kitchen/dining/sitting roomHOUSE ø 5 bedrooms A SUPERB CONTEMPORARY ø 3 bathrooms ø off-street parking ø secluded landscaped burnham market, north norfolk garden ø within walking distance of the Market Place

Guide £1.2 million

FULL PAGE.indd 1 Country Townhouse 210x297mm.indd 1 SA63599 Absolutely

30/08/2012 30/08/2012 10:57 10:27

London Lettings Chelsea & Riverside

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Caro Point, Grosvenor Waterside SW1W £575pw l l

Brand New Apartment 1 Bedroom

l l

Balcony Furnished

Billings Place, Chelsea SW10 l l

Recently Refurbished 2 Bedroom House

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Albion Riverside, Battersea SW11 l l

2 Bedroom Apartment 2 Bathrooms

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£695pw

Montevetro, Battersea SW11 l l

2 Bedroom Apartment Large Reception Room

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Interior Designed Apartment 2 Bedrooms

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£650pw

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£1,150pw

Furnished Approx 1,700 Sq Ft

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£1,100pw

Furnished Approx 1,050 Sq Ft

Prince Consort Road, Kensington SW7 £3,000pw l l

t: 020 7351 0387

MARTIN&CO.indd 1

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Patio Garden Unfurnished

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South Facing Balcony Unfurnished

Kings Chelsea, Kings Road SW10

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Stunning Apartment 5 Bedrooms

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Furnished Approx 2,900 Sq Ft

1 Cremorne Rd Chelsea London SW10 0NA e: chelsea@martinco.com www.martincochelsea.co.uk

21/08/2012 16:24

LANDLORDS WE have the tenants YOU have the keys Demand for rental properties is currently outstripping supply and in some parts of London we are seeing over 10 applicants for every property We urgently need properties to let in all central London locations We can guarantee you better quality tenants than anyone else

Association of Residential Letting Agents

Nine offices open six days a week: Beaufort Park | Canary Wharf | City | Hampstead | Highgate Hyde Park | Imperial Wharf | Kensington | Knightsbridge

Call us now on 0800 092 9656 or email info@brlets.co.uk or visit www.brlets.co.uk

London’s Letting Agency www.brlets.co.uk

Wandsworth Wandsworth

£290 £290pw pw Furnished Furnished

1 Bedroom | 1 Reception || 11 Bathroom Bathroom || New New Development Development Lift | Porter || Tube Tube & & All All Amenities Amenities Nearby Nearby Knightsbridge 0207581 75812112 2112 Knightsbridge 020

£400 £430 pw Furnished

2 Reception| |12Bathroom Bathrooms | New Development 1 Bedrooms Bedroom | |11Reception | Modern Block 24hr| Porter | Sauna | & Parking | Close To Sloane Square Lift Porter || Gym All Amenities Tube Nearby Knightsbridge 0207581 75812112 2112 Knightsbridge 020

Knightsbridge

£350 £375 pw Furnished

Studio/Living Space | 1 Bathroom Bathroom || Riverside Riverside Development Development Lift | 24hr Concierge | Balcony | Underground Parking Porter | Gym | Parking | On-Site Amenities knight@brlets.co.uk knight@brlets.co.uk

Wandsworth Knightsbridge

Chelsea Imperial Borders Wharf

Imperial Wharf 020 0207348 73487620 7620 Imperial Wharf

Chelsea Borders

imperialwharf@brlets.co.uk imperialwharf@brlets.co.uk

From £550 pw Furnished

2/3 Bedrooms Reception| |22Bathrooms Bathrooms| |Popular PopularDevelopment Development Bedroom | |11Reception Lift | 24hr Porter Porter || Parking Parking || Balcony Balcony ||Gym Gym||Riverside RiversideLocation Location knight@brlets.co.uk knight@brlets.co.uk

pw Furnished £600 pw£550 Furn/UnFurnished

Imperial Wharf 020 0207348 73487620 7620 Imperial Wharf

Chelsea Knightsbridge

imperialwharf@brlets.co.uk imperialwharf@brlets.co.uk

£625 £600 pw Furnished

1 Conversion 2 Bedroom Bedrooms| |11Reception Reception||12 Bathroom Bathrooms| |New Riverside Development River View | Porter | Terrace Parking&| Close Parking | 24hr Porter | Near |Harrods Tube To Tube

2 Reception| |11Bathroom Bathroom| |Popular Mansion Block 1 Bedrooms Bedroom | |11Reception Block Off Street Parking | Lift | Porter Close To Tube Parking | Lift | Porter | Close To |Tube

Knightsbridge 0207581 75812112 2112 Knightsbridge 020

Knightsbridge 0207581 75812112 2112 Knightsbridge 020

Nine offices open six days a week: Beaufort Park 020 8732 7980 Canary Wharf 020 7517 6088 City 020 7213 9700

BENHAM1& REEVES.SEPT.indd 2 Untitled-8 BENHAM AND REEVES6.indd 1

knight@brlets.co.uk knight@brlets.co.uk

Hampstead Highgate Hyde Park

020 7435 9681 020 8341 2335 020 7402 9866

Imperial Wharf Kensington Knightsbridge

knight@brlets.co.uk knight@brlets.co.uk

020 7348 7620 020 7938 3522 020 7581 2112

21/08/2012 10:31 11:22 20/06/2012

Unti

Chelsea Notting Hill Gate From £280 pw Furnished Knightsbridge

£650 pw FurnishedFromChelsea Chelsea Borders £350 pw Furnished £625 Furnished Knightsbridge

Notting Hill Gate

£700 Furnished £450 pw Furnished £800

22 Bedrooms | 1 Reception | 2 Bathrooms || Mansion Apartment 22 Bedrooms | 1 Reception 1| 2Bedroom Bathrooms Riverside Bedrooms Block Bathrooms || Period Building Studio/1 Bedroom | 1 Bathroom Studio/1/2 Bedrooms | 1/2 Bathrooms | 1 Reception | Development 1 Bathroom Parking | Lift | Porter | Tube & Stations Amenities Nearby Communal Gardens| Parking | Porter Close to |Tube Amenities Lift | 24hr Porter | Secure Parking | Near Sloane Square Lift | 24hr Porter || Balcony Near&Tube Contemporary Furnishings | Tube Nearby Lift | 24hr Porterage | Riverside Location Close to Portobello Road | Amenities Nearby Knightsbridge 020 7581 7581 2112 Hyde Park 020 7402 98662112 Knightsbridge 020

Kensington Knightsbridge Knightsbridge

hyde@brlets.co.uk

£700 pw Furnished

Knightsbridge 020 7581 75812112 2112Hyde Park 020 7402 9866 Imperial knight@brlets.co.uk Wharf 020 7348 7620 imperialwharf@brlets.co.uk knight@brlets.co.uk Knightsbridge 020

Chelsea £950 pwpw Unfurnished £1,200 Furnished

£725 pw Furnished Knightsbridge Knightsbridge

Chelsea Borders

knight@brlets.co.uk hyde@brlets.co.uk knight@brlets.co.uk

From £950 Furnished £1,200 Furnished £1,300 pwpw Unfurnished

Bedrooms 1 Reception 3 Bathroom Bathrooms| |Apartment Period House2 Bedrooms | 1 Reception | 2 Bathrooms 23 Bedrooms | 1 Reception 3/4 1 Bathrooms Bathroom Apartment Bedrooms 1 |3 Period Conversion 142Bedroom | 1| Reception | 1 |Bathroom Bedrooms ||Reception | 4 Bathrooms Parking Porter | |Close ToTo& Harrods Tube Parking | Porter Lift | Porter | Close To |Tube Lift | Porter | Parking | Tube Amenities Nearby 24hr Porterage | Parking | Balcony Porterage Parking | Balcony Terrace || Parking Close Tube &&Amenities Parking | Close| Balcony To24hr Harrods & Tube Kensington 020 020 79387581 35222112 Knightsbridge 020 7581 2112 Knightsbridge

Knightsbridge Knightsbridge Belgravia

kens@brlets.co.uk

Knightsbridge 020 7581 2112 knight@brlets.co.uk knight@brlets.co.uk

knight@brlets.co.uk Knightsbridge 020 7581 7581 2112 2112Imperial Wharf 020 7348 7620 imperialwharf@brlets.co.uk knight@brlets.co.uk Knightsbridge knight@brlets.co.uk

£1,000 pw Unfurnished £1,400 Kensington pw Unfurnished £1,500 Furnished £1,295 Chelsea Borders pwpw Unfurnished Knightsbridge

Kensington

£1,600 Furnished £1,500 pwpw Unfurnished £1,500 pw Furnished

Bedroom Reception Bathroom Development 41 Bedrooms Reception|2|14 Bathrooms |Reception Apartment Bedrooms|| 1 |11Reception Reception|| 3 |12Bathrooms Bathrooms| Deluxe | Terraced House Bedroom ||11Reception Bathroom Development 413Bedrooms 3 Bedrooms | 1 Reception | 2 Bathrooms Bedrooms | |1Deluxe | 2 Bathrooms Parking | Garden ||Near To TubeNearby & |Amenities Lift 24hr Porter | Development Gym | Parking Pool| Nearby | Moments From Harrods Townhouse | Porter Parking | Amenities LiftHarrods | Communal Garden | Close to |Amenities Porter | |Lift Terrace | Parking Lift | 24hr Gym | Parking Pool | Moments From Parking | Riverside Tube Kensington 020 020 79387581 35222112 Knightsbridge 020 7581 2112 Knightsbridge

International Offices: Hong Kong Singapore

10:31

BENHAM Untitled-8 &1REEVES.SEPT.indd 3

kens@brlets.co.uk

Kensington 020 7938 3522 knight@brlets.co.uk knight@brlets.co.uk

kens@brlets.co.uk Kensington 020 7938 3522 Imperial Wharf020 0207581 7348 7620 Knightsbridge 2112

kens@brlets.co.uk imperialwharf@brlets.co.uk knight@brlets.co.uk

Dubai India

21/08/2012 20/06/2012 11:23 10:31 20/06/2012 10:30

PROPERTY

Luxury Lettings Period features and luxurious, spacious living on the ultra exclusive Little Boltons

WHAT Those who enjoy plush, Georgian interiors with sweeping staircases will love this well-positioned one-bedroom apartment tucked sway on The Little Boltons – one of Chelsea’s most well known and exclusive streets. The newly refurbished property is on a raised ground floor and is part of a stunning period building with magnificent high ceilings and bay windows. The large ensuite master bedroom and southfacing reception room are fantastically sized and come with their own unique period features.

WHERE This is one of Chelsea’s finest streets, full of beautiful period buildings and slap-bang in the centre of the borough with easy access to the Fulham and Old Brompton Roads. The location has equal amounts of quiet gentility and access to the vibrant hubbub of Chelsea life. Shops, eateries and culture spots abound a short distance away and the delights of the King’s Road are just a few blocks south.

Nearest tube stations are West Brompton and Earl’s Court, both a ten minute walk away.

WHY Real luxe and spaciousness are two of the most frequently demanded ingredients in real estate. This apartment has both in spades.

DETAILS £6,500 per month. Available furnished/unfurnished.

CONTACT Engel & Völkers, 293 Brompton Road, SW3; 020 7584 1100; engelvoelkers.com/chelsea

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PROPERTY

French connection

Absolutely visits Douglas & Gordon’s new French-speaking office in South Kensington

D

ouglas & Gordon has added to its firepower in South Kensington and Chelsea by opening a third office on Harrington Road.

Situated right opposite the French Lycée, the office will improve service in the area, particularly insofar as the growing demand from French buyers.

Douglas & Gordon knows that propertyspecific language can confuse even the most ardent anglophile, so this will be a Frenchspeaking office, thus supporting the increasing numbers of escapees from the Hollande Government’s punitive wealth taxes.

Ivor Dickinson, D&G managing director comments: ‘We hope to give those French families looking to relocate here a relatively stress-free house buying experience.’

The installation of the nine-screen video wall in the office has raised a number of eyebrows. Absolutely asked Ivor to explain his vision for D&G and the significance of the much-discussed video wall: ‘To fully

answer the question, one needs to look at why Douglas & Gordon bought this office.

We acquired an agency called Berkeley International eight years ago with the principal aim of relaunching its Kensington Church Street office. This we did, but we were then left with the Harrington Road site. Despite its very prominent position, it was an incredibly shallow shop with room

more viable office. It occurred to me that this was an opportunity to make the back wall of the office more interesting, as it could be viewed from the street by thousands of people every day.’

The Harrington Road office will be showing films created for an annual film competition, in association with Ravensbourne Media College, by local filmmakers. They will also be linked to create a huge screen showing Google maps as well as a street-view of any local property on the market.

But why go to all this trouble? ‘We have always made it our business to experiment with new technology and as soon as our last branding idea is copied, it is then time to think of something new. We hope that this unique way of looking for property will attract people to our new office and keep Douglas & Gordon at the very forefront of innovation.’

Right opposite the French Lycée, the office will improve service for growing numbers of French buyers for only three desks. It was also very close to Douglas & Gordon’s existing offices, so I decided to use it as an installation space and over the years, we have had some astonishing displays from graduates from various London colleges. However, with the massive influx of French buyers in the last two years and this site being so brilliantly positioned opposite the Lycée, we decided make it a

Contact Patrick Alvarado 020 7581 1152; douglasandgordon.com 125

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Pimlico Park Office: Holland Office: 0207727 78285111 4050 020 pimlico@jackson-stops.co.uk holland.park@jackson-stops.co.uk

Lettings: 020 7727 5222

Holland Park Mews W11

www.jackson-stops.co.uk/London jackson-stops.co.uk/London

£1050 per week

A stunning mews house in this fantastic location close to Holland Park. The house offers excellent entertaining space, a wonderful roof terrace and wood floors to all reception areas. There is also a Westmoreland Freehold £1,895,000 small garage for extra Terrace, storage. London, SW1

(STC)

A fabulous opportunity todouble acquirebedrooms, this freehold family house in(one the en highly sought after ‘Westmoreland 1281 sq ft/119 sq m, two two bathrooms suite), reception room, dining Triangle’, Pimlico SW1. room, kitchen, garage, unfurnished, available now.

2 Double Reception 3/45222 Bedrooms, Optional Self Contained Studio Apartment, Patio, Fast find 48375 Holland Park Office: Rooms 020 7727 holland.park@jackson-stops.co.uk Approx G.I.A. 2500sqft

41 offices covering the UK London: office 17c Curzon Street W1J 5HU

Pimlico Office: 020 7828 4050 pimlico@jackson-stops.co.uk JACKON STOPS-SEPTS.indd 2

Fast find: AB47977 10/08/2012 13:23

Holland Park Avenue W11

ÂŁ3,850,000 Freehold

Unusually wide and rarely available, Grade II listed, five double bedroom house on Holland Park Avenue.

Presented in good condition and retains original period features throughout. Situated moments from Holland Park tube station and Holland Park itself.

2809 sq ft/260 sq m, four/five bedrooms, three bathrooms, two reception rooms, kitchen/dining, garden.

Holland Park Office: 020 7727 5111 holland.park@jackson-stops.co.uk

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Fast find 47613

25/06/2012 17:02

Pimlico Office: 020 7828 4050 pimlico@jackson-stops.co.uk

www.jackson-stops.co.uk/London

Guildhouse Street, London SW1V

£872,000 (STC) Leasehold

Recently refurbished duplex apartment (c.1000sqft) currently tenanted (£995p/w) well located for Victoria Station and Central Pimlico.

Ground Floor Reception Room, Kitchen, 4 Double Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms, Patio.

Pimlico Office: 020 7828 4050 pimlico@jackson-stops.co.uk

Winchester Street, London SW1V

Fast find: AB46777

£1,550,000 (STC) Share of Freehold

A beautifully refurbished infill house (1500sqft). Unique, highly desirable and centrally located within the quiet surrounds of Pimlico’s Grid.

Split Level Open Plan Kitchen / Reception Room (c. 885sqft), 3 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms, Separate vault storage.

Pimlico Office: 020 7828 4050 pimlico@jackson-stops.co.uk

Fast find: AB48014

41 offices covering the UK London: office 17c Curzon Street W1J 5HU

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Chapter Street, London SW1P

ÂŁ1,650 per week

The show piece of a new development, this contemporary and luxurious three bedroom house lies in Westminster, within minutes of Pimlico Underground station.

Large Entertaining Space, 3 Double Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, Balcony, Garage.

Pimlico Office: 020 7828 4050 pimlico@jackson-stops.co.uk

Fast find AB49010

41 offices covering the UK London: office 17c Curzon Street W1J 5HU

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Chelsea Office: Sales: 020 7581 5881 | Lettings: 020 7581 8431 chelsea@jackson-stops.co.uk

Paultons House, Paultons Square, SW3

www.jackson-stops.co.uk/London

ÂŁ850,000 Share of Freehold

Situated on the 4th floor of this well known purpose built block on Paultons Square this is a west facing 2 bedroom flat (703 sq ft) with commanding views over the square gardens. Access to the gardens is granted with ownership of the flat. Good order but redecoration likely to be undertaken.

2 spacious Bedrooms, Reception room, fitted kitchen, bathroom, entryphone, independent GCH and HW, lift, access to gardens, built in cupboards, leasehold approx 116 years.

Chelsea Office: 020 7581 5881 chelsea@jackson-stops.co.uk

Fast find 49230

41 offices covering the UK London: office 17c Curzon Street W1J 5HU

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29/08/2012 11:20

Lennox Gardens, London, SW1X

ÂŁ5,000 per week

Occupying a prominent position in one of the most sought after garden squares in Knightsbridge, this is a triplex apartment offering accommodation on a scale rarely seen.

3 Reception Rooms, 4 Double Bedrooms, 4 Bathrooms, Roof Terrace.

Chelsea Office: 020 7581 5881 chelsea@jackson-stops.co.uk

JACKON STOPS-CHELSEA_SEPT.indd 2

Fast find 47833

29/08/2012 11:20

The United Nations of Douglas &Gordon Our worldwide web extends beyond the internet with six affiliated global offices and more opening later in the year.

Dubai / Moscow / New York / Paris / South Africa / Sydney

ÂŁ1,150,000 Leasehold Ormonde Gate SW3 Overlooking the wonderful open spaces of Burton Court on one side and communal gardens at the rear, a third floor flat in a handsome period building.

2 bedrooms, Bathroom, Reception room, Kitchen, Roof terrace.

Chelsea Sales Office: 020 7225 1225 chelseasales@dng.co.uk

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24/08/2012 10:38

Text dng to 84840 for details of properties near you now.

North Chelsea Fulham Hammersmith & Shepherd’s Bush

Kensington Kensington Gate South Kensington Notting Hill Pimlico & Westminster

South Balham Battersea Battersea Park

Clapham Southside East Putney West Putney Southfields & Earlsfield

www.douglasandgordon.com

£1,150,000 Freehold Broughton Road SW6 An exciting opportunity to purchase a stunning four double bedroom family house.

4 double bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, Double reception room, Study, Kitchen/breakfast room, Utility room, Garden.

Fulham Sales Office: 020 7731 4391 fulhamsales@dng.co.uk

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OK, we admit it’s not easy to get a job at D&G But why not have a go anyway? If you think you’re up to it let us know by calling 020 7963 4604 or emailing recruitment@dng.co.uk.

£2,350,000 Leasehold Earl’s Court Square SW5

A fabulous three double bedroom top floor flat (with lift) extending to 1,890 sq.ft.

£1,045,000 Leasehold

A wonderful two bedroom lateral flat enjoying views over the communal gardens.

approximately 36 years unexpired

Onslow Square SW7

DOUGLAS SALES.CHELSEA.2.indd 3

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

3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, Kitchen, Reception room, Balcony, Lift.

South Kensington Sales: 020 7581 8888 sthkensales@dng.co.uk

2 bedrooms, Bathroom, Reception room, Kitchen, Lift, Access to communal gardens, Store room.

24/08/2012 10:37

Text dng to 84840 for details of properties near you now.

North Chelsea Fulham Hammersmith & Shepherd’s Bush

Kensington Kensington Gate South Kensington Notting Hill Pimlico & Westminster

South Balham Battersea Battersea Park

Clapham Southside East Putney West Putney Southfields & Earlsfield

www.douglasandgordon.com

£1,000,000 Freehold Rylston Road SW6

We are delighted to offer to the market this beautifully presented five double bedroom house.

£585,000 Leasehold

A bright fifth floor one bed flat with lift and porter in this well-maintained purpose-built block.

approximately 30 years unexpired

Chelsea Manor Gardens SW3

DOUGLAS SALES.CHELSEA.2.indd 4

Fulham Sales: 020 7731 4391 fulhamsales@dng.co.uk

5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Double reception room, Kitchen/breakfast room, Cellar, Garden.

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

Bedroom, Shower room, Reception room, Kitchen, Lift, Porter, Access to communal roof garden.

24/08/2012 10:37

Best Blog in Show Our blog has been voted the best in the United Kingdom at the Primelocation.com awards. With refreshingly outspoken views on the property market you’ll see a different perspective at douglasandgordon.com/blog

£1,700 per week Unfurnished Limerston Street SW10

An exceptional four bedroom house with a wonderful garden and terrace.

£1,095 per week Furnished Eardley Crescent SW5

Absolutely gorgeous split level property with huge garden.

D&G LETTINGS_Chelsea.2.indd 1

Chelsea Lettings 020 7731 4791 chelsealets@dng.co.uk

Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, 3 further, bedrooms, Bathroom, Shower room, Study, Double, reception room, Kitchen, Dining room.

Kensington Gate Lettings 020 7581 6666 kengatelets@dng.co.uk

Master bedroom with en-suite shower room, 2 double bedrooms, 2 bathroom, Reception room, Dining room, Kitchen, Conservatory, Garden.

29/08/2012 15:19

Text dng to 84840 for details of properties near you now.

North Chelsea Fulham Hammersmith & Shepherd’s Bush

Kensington Kensington Gate South Kensington Notting Hill Pimlico & Westminster

South Balham Battersea Battersea Park

Clapham Southside East Putney West Putney Southfields & Earlsfield

www.douglasandgordon.com

£850 per week Unfurnished/ Part-Furnished Avalon Road SW6

A wonderful opportunity to rent this fabulous three bedroom house in a superb location in Fulham.

£745 per week Furnished Wyfold Road SW6

A rare and unique opportunity to rent this Fulham Lettings 020 7731 4791 immaculately presented and extremely spacious fulhamlets@dng.co.uk warehouse conversion.

Fulham Lettings 020 7731 4791 fulhamlets@dng.co.uk

3 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Reception room, Kitchen/breakfast room, Study area, Garden.

2 double bedrooms with 2 en-suite bathrooms, Open plan kitchen/reception room, Cloakroom.

D&G LETTINGS_Chelsea.2.indd 2

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Leah Oaker Trainee Barrister and Property Manager You’ll have no objection with Leah managing your property, her silky skills stand up to any cross examination. Our people are what make us great, and Leah tips the scales.

douglasandgordon.com Extraordinary people

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07/08/2012 09:54

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24/07/2012 14:57

NU - LINE

KITCHENS LTD

Nu-Line Builders Merchants 305-317 Westbourne Park Road London W11 1EF

NU LINE KITCHEN.indd 1

www.nu-line.net

T: 020 7727 7748 F: 020 7792 9451 E: sales@nu-line.net

20/06/2012 15:39