CITY & ANGEL DECEMBER 2015

CITY & ANGEL DECEMBER 2015 / £3.95

GRANDE DAME HELEN MIRREN ON AWARDS AND AGEING

ALL THINGS NICE

THE CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDES

THE HIGH LIFE

EXPLORING MONTREUX IN SWITZERLAND

CLEAR CUT KEEP THINGS CLASSIC FOR CHRISTMAS STYLISH / INTELLIGENT / ELEGANT COVER_Dec15.indd 1

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contents

60

Dece mbe r 2015

16

c u lt u r e

WHAT’S ON

Diary dates for December

fa s h i o n

28 FASHION CONFIDENTIAL The hottest buys and news for December

20 MAJESTIC MIRREN

30 UP ALL NIGHT

25 FIRST IMPRESSION

37 SHINE ON

National treasure Dame Helen Mirren talks turning 70, and her upcoming film, Trumbo Edward Akrout’s exhibition at Hoxton Hotel showcases the actor’s first foray into art

This month’s fashion shoot is awash with showstopping looks perfect for party season Molten metallics and luminescent looks for her

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

42 BEAUTY CONFIDENTIAL The latest beauty news, reviews and looks for winter

45 GOOD LOOKING GIFTS

Beauty sets and coffrets for Christmas

47 t r av e l

60 SWISS PERFECTION

Stephanie King ventures to Montreux and finds an alpine paradise that ticks every box

Food & Drink

49 KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL

Tasty happenings from the local area, hot product discoveries, and wine pairings by Jane Parkinson

COVERS North By Northwest: Black wool coat • Off white silk shirt dress • Be Dior bag in tri colour soft shiny calfskin City & Angel: Off white cashmere coat • Dior Mail earrings in palladium finish metal • Be Dior bag in blue shiny python East: Off white, burgundy and brown wool organic dress • Dior Mail earrings in palladium finish metal • Diorissimo bag in vigne an red handpainted ayers

All by D I O R

Stockists: 31 Sloane Street, SW1; 0207 172 0172 d i o r.c o m

51

RESTAURANT REVIEWS

We sample Crab Tavern and Homeslice

kids

57 LITTLE TREATS

Helen Baron rounds up the best gifts for kids

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UK.BURBERRY.COM

27 interiors

66 INTERIOR INSPIRATIONS

Deck your halls with these Christmas decorations

69 TIDINGS OF JOY

Jessica Klingelfuss’ edit of presents for the home

71

PROPERTY

PROPERTY FRONT COVER

News, advice and features from Nigel Lewis

DECEMBER 2015

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EDITORIAL DIRECTOR ROMY VAN DEN BROEKE SENIOR EDITORIAL ASSISTANT ELIZABETH HUTTON EDITORIAL ASSISTANT STEPHANIE KING CONTRIBUTING FASHION EDITOR CHARLOTTE ADSETT CONTRIBUTING INTERIORS EDITOR JESSICA KLINGELFUSS MEN’S EDITOR TEO VAN DEN BROEKE WINE COLUMNIST JANE PARKINSON KID’S EDITOR HELEN BARON EDITORIAL INTERNS ELYSIA AGNEW, CHARLOTTE GOLZARI GROUP COMMERCIAL MANAGER JAMES FUSCHILLO SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER KRISTIAN BRUMBY MAJOR ACCOUNTS DIRECTOR TAMSIN LUCK PROPERTY DIRECTOR ANDY ELMER ART DIRECTOR RAY SEARLE SENIOR DESIGNER PHIL COUZENS MID-WEIGHT DESIGNERS GEMMA ISTEED, EKREM YILMAZ JUNIOR DESIGNER REBECCA NOONAN PRODUCTION MANAGER STEWART HYDE FINANCIAL CONTROLLER AYSHA HABIBI CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER ALEXANDRA HVID PA TO THE DIRECTORS MARIANNE MCFADDEN DIRECTORS ALEXANDRA HUNTER MANAGING DIRECTOR SHERIF SHALTOUT For editorial enquiries please email: romy@zest-media.com For advertising enquiries please call 020 7704 0588 or email: advertising@zest-media.com Subscriptions are available simply by emailing marianne@zest-media.com You can receive an online subscription for FREE or a postal subscriptions for 12 months, £30 respectively (to cover postage and packaging). Please email us with your preferred option and details.

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Fo l l ow Us O n T wi t t e r @ABSOLUTELY_MAGS Fa c e b o o k ‘ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES’

EDITOR’S letter is the season to be jolly, or so the saying goes, and while it’s sometimes easier said than done in this rather stressful time, we’ve tried our upmost to lift your spirits with our Christmas issue. Not only do we have an insight into the world according to Dame Helen Mirren, we’ve got a plethora of seasonal content to keep you entertained.

Head to page 16 where we’ve uncovered the best things to do locally and around London to get you in the Christmas spirit.

On page 19, we’ve reviewed the London Museum’s new exhibition, The Crime Museum Uncovered, which delves into the some of the city’s most notorious murder cases. It runs until April 2016 – don't miss it.

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Stuck on what to wear for the party season? Charlotte Adsett has pulled together the best metallic separates to see you through to New Year’s Eve (page 37), while on page 45 I’ve rounded up the very of best beauty gifts. Turn to page 53 and feast your eyes on our top gifts for gourmands. Page 69 has Jessica Klingelfuss’s edit of stylish interior gifts for aesthetes, and to round it all off, on page 60 Stephanie King has discovered Swiss perfection in Montreux.

I wish you all a relaxing, peaceful break and a very Merry Christmas! ◆

Romy van den Broeke Editorial Director @ohnohereisro

DECEMBER 2015

17/11/2015 12:45

Shop for great gift ideas Online: ltmuseumshop.co.uk London stores: Covent Garden Piazza South Kensington (Station Arcade)

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p. 16

CRIME AND PUNISHMENT

p. 18

MAJESTIC MIRREN

p. 20

FIRST IMPRESSIONS

p. 24

THE WORLD OF CHARLES AND RAY EAMES, BARBICAN

> WHAT’S ON

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DECEMBER 2015

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©JAYNE LLOYD

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CHRISTMAS PAST

T h ro u gh o u t No v e m b e r G e ffr ye M u s e u m ravel back in time to the Christmases of your childhood T past. With festive decorations, music and presents, the period rooms will show how the season has been celebrated in English homes over the last 400 years. ◆ 136 Kingsland Road, E1; geffrye-museum.org.uk

© JASON BELL

SIPSMITH SKI LODGE

The

Nutcracker

T h ro u gh o u t D e ce m b e r T he Well ho says you need to have snow for a little après ski party? Artisanal W London distillers Sipsmith are transforming The Well’s cocktail lounge into an alpine lodge complete with cosy armchairs and fur rugs. Sounds toasty. ◆ 180 John Street, EC1V; downthewell.com

A festive season essential, The Nutcracker will return to London, recreating Russian composer Tchaikovsky’s 1892 tale of a young girl called Clara and her new, beloved Nutcracker toy. Set on Christmas Eve, the magical production is a triumphant concoction of both musical distinction and storytelling ingenuity.

A must-see this Christmas.

Bow Street, WC2E; roh.org.uk

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© CLIVE BARDA

From 16 D ecember L ondon Coliseum

LULU BY FRANK WEDEKIND

2 D e ce m b e r S il k S tre e t T he a tre escribed by Wedekind as a “monster tragedy,” this play follows D the young and beautiful Lulu as she travels through a greedy world filled with sex and death. Truly intoxicating. ◆Silk Street, EC2Y; barbican.org.uk

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ARTS & CULTURE / WHAT’S ON

THE WORLD OF CHARLES AND RAY EAMES T h ro u gh o u t D e ce m b e r B a rb i c a n Ar t G a ll e r y formidable design duo active for over four decades, A the Eameses worked tirelessly to create a new, modern aesthetic in a post-war world. From furniture design to film, this major exhibition brings together over 380 of their works and seeks to bring their spirit back to life. ◆Silk Street, EC2Y; barbican.org.uk

Christmas Foodies Festival 27-29 No ve m b e r T r u m an Bre we r y

SKATE AT SOMERSET HOUSE

Don’t miss The Wright Brothers and Great British Bake Off winner Nadiya Hussain at the Foodie’s Festival, as well as recipes inspired by TV chef Fanny Cradock being bought back to life. Sample and shop from over 150 producers and enjoy live music and carolers in the champagne ski bar and pudding hall.

must do

Throughout D ecemb er S ome rset House et your skate on this winter and glide around G the courtyard of Somerset House as it is transformed into an iced arcadia. After dark, the rink will host some of London’s most exclusive music events and, what’s more, you can aprés-skate your way through the festive season fuelled by cocktails and hot chocolate available at the Fortum’s Lodge. ◆ Strand, WC2R; somersethouse.org.uk

91 Brick Lane, E1; foodiesfestival.com

SHOW OF THE MONTH

SLEEPING BEAUTY From 1 December Sadler’s Wells ne thing’s for sure: the Brothers Grimm knew how to write a good Gothic fairytale.

While their telling of Sleeping Beauty is enchanting, this production, choreographed by Matthew Bourne OBE, is a dazzling spectacular.

Set to Tchaikovsky’s score, this will give you goosebumps, as the classic

© SIMON ANNAND

O

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battle between good and evil reaches fever pitch and the fates of all involved are decided. Beginning in 1890 and continuing into the modern day, Bourne’s world of mysteries far surpasses the traditional version. ◆ Rosebery Avenue, EC1R; sadlerswells.com

DECEMBER 2015

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ARTS & CULTURE / SPOTLIGHT

Crime and

PUNISHMENT Unleash your inner Sherlock at the The Crime Museum Uncovered

six women had already been viciously murdered in the East End of London by an unknown murder, who soon became famously known as Jack the Ripper.

Evidence within the exhibition also sheds light on breakthrough methods of investigation, such as the masks used by the Stratton brothers, who were the first criminals to be convicted in Great Britain for murder based on finger print evidence in 1905.

THE CRIME MUSEUM &THE MET POLICE

he Crime Museum began as a teaching tool created by the police in the mid-1870s and was previously only accessible to invited guests. Some of the objects from particular investigations led to major developments in detection methods or changes to the law, and have played a key role in the way London is policed today.

The exhibition tells the stories of not only the criminals, but also the police officers who investigated these crimes; it shows how painstaking police work can be, where the smallest details are critical to a detective solving a crime. Don’t forget your magnifying glass and deerstalker! u

W o r d s k ay l e i g h l av e r y

T

C&&A DEC 15 Local Interview Booklet on the Dr Crippen case which fascinated the public, c.1910 © Museum of London

C&&A DEC 15 Local Interview Inside the Metropolitan Police's hidden Crime Museum at Scotland Yard, c. 1900 (c) Museum of London

H

ave you ever been curious about the evidence of a criminal investigation and unlocking real-life case files?

Since its establishment in 1874, the Metropolitan Police’s Crime Museum has only been accessible to serving officers, but London’s so-called ‘Black Museum’ opens to the public for the first time this autumn. Never-beforeseen objects and evidence from this extraordinary collection will be on display to take you on an uneasy journey through some of history’s most notorious crimes.

THE EXHIBITION

he Museum of London have teamed up with the Metropolitan Police Service to curate an entire exhibition from a single collection – and one never before seen by the general T

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public. Those with a tough predisposition can snoop at over 600 items dating from the early 1880s, from forensics kits used by detectives in the Forties to the torture instruments used by the infamous Kray twins. The gun used by Ruth Ellis to murder her lover, the spade Dr Crippen used to bury his wife Cora and the replica Millennium Star diamond used to foil the Millennium Dome Robbery make their debut in this fascinating, if not somewhat eerie, exhibition.

One of the oldest artefacts includes a Jack the Ripper appeal for information poster issued by Met Police in September 1888. The poster reproduces a letter written in blood-red ink – which was received by the Central News Agency – and asks anyone recognising the handwriting to contact the police. At the time of the poster being published,

C&&A DEC 15 Local Interview Jack the Ripper appeal for information poster issued by Metropolitan Police, 1888 -® Museum of London

October 2015 – April 2016 Museum of London, EC2Y; museumoflondon.org.uk

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Majestic

MIRREN Wapping local Dame Helen Mirren talks Trumbo and taking over the world Wo r d s K a r e n A n n e O v e r t o n

D

ame Helen Mirren is more than just a national treasure: She has conquered some of the toughest roles, demonstrating her natural wit, elegance and humility, but above all her undeniable acting talent. From playing Cleopatra to portraying Queen Elizabeth II, Mirren is at the height of her career, and despite turning 70 recently, doesn't look set to slow down anytime soon.

Working successfully as an actress for 50 years, Helen Mirren got her big break in her mid-forties, when she was cast as DCI Jane Tennyson in Lynda La Plante's Prime Suspect. The show was a huge hit and made her a household name. When pressed about her talent and triumphs, Mirren stays characteristically humble, putting her success down to luck: “I’m just very fortunate. I’m lucky that I’ve been able to hold on for as long as I have. And from time to time, people ask me to be in their films. That’s it really. My career is all about luck!”

Born to working class parents in Leigh-on-Sea in Essex, Mirren's path

seemed set out from a young age, or so she thought. With teaching in mind, her heart was clearly elsewhere, and it wasn't until she auditioned for the National Youth Theatre at 18 that her plans changed. Shortly after being accepted into the National Youth Theatre, Mirren was playing a key role in Antony and Cleopatra at the Old Vic. Her career grew gradually but the past 20 years have seen Mirren's career and influence take on a whole new trajectory. Sought after for countless films, making apperances in TV shows on both sides of the Atlantic, and walking the boards at some of the best theatres in the world, Mirren's ability to adapt and convince is so good she won her first Oscar in 2007 for her performance in the Queen.

Her most recent challenge was to play notorious American gossip columnist Hedda Hopper in Trumbo. Based on the true story of Dalton Trumbo, a Hollywood screenwriter who was blacklisted and jailed for his political beliefs, the film is an exposing portrait of McCarthy-era America and the Cold War fear that gripped Americans.

The fear of communism during this time, saw many people whistle-blow, or

I’VE ALWAYS quite fancied PLAYING A DANGEROUS evil Bond villain WHO HOLDS the world to ransom. THAT WOULD BE my ideal

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DECEMBER 2015

17/11/2015 15:18

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ARTS & CULTURE / INTERVIEW more commonly point the finger (often in fear of their own fate) at suspected communists. Hedda Hopper built herself a reputation as someone who spilled the beans on supposed ‘commies’ in her thenpopular gossip column for the Los Angeles Times. “She was ghastly, utterly ghastly,” Mirren says. “She thrived on the gossipy underwire and used it to hurt and destroy a lot of people. But I must say, while I found her tactics and ideals completely abhorrent, she was ultimately a lot of fun to portray!”

Indeed, Mirren truly captures the callous yet effervescent Hopper. “She is one of those characters who is a joy to play because there’s such a stretch of emotions and extremes. So extreme that on paper it’s almost fictional, but she was stranger than fiction. If you invented her, she could be seen as completely unbelievable.”

Trumbo is set in the late 1930s and early 1940s, with all the Hollywood glamour you'd expect from that era. Breaking Bad’s Bryan Cranston plays Dalton Trumbo, a man who was once the highest-paid screenwriter in the world, but in 1947 was blacklisted for refusing to name names before the House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC).

The film is slick and elegant, and Mirren has the opportunity to dress up in classic 1940s attire: “She [Hopper] loved a good hat, so that was largely the reason I wanted to do this film,” she joked. “The real reason was so I could work with Bryan Cranston, who is one of America’s finest working actors.”

Cranston’s role in Trumbo has been hailed his finest silver screen performance to date. Helen Mirren is a

Dame Helen Mirren as Hedda Hopper in Trumbo (2015)

SHE WAS utterly ghastly. SHE THRIVED ON THE gossipy underwire AND USED IT TO HURT a lot

of people

huge fan of his work, admitting she was ‘obsessed’ with Breaking Bad and “saw him on the stage as President Lyndon B. Johnson on Broadway and he was incredible. I’ve always thought he was brilliant in any part he took on. I was a fan for many years before the mass public were introduced by Breaking Bad. The pure strength of his performance, it’s masterful.”

The Queen (2006)

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Like most women in the spotlight, Mirren has faced plenty of sexism from critics and the media. During an interview in 1975 with Michael Parkinson, he seemed determined to talk about her ‘reputation’ as a sex icon, going so far as to suggest that her ‘equipment’ could stop her from being taken seriously.

“When I first arrived in Hollywood, it was totally dominated by men,” she sighs.

“Women have come a very long way since then in this business. There are more good parts being written for women now and although we still have some way to go it’s remarkable to see how much things have progressed and I’m happy to have witnessed that change.”

But there is no denying Mirren's beauty – coming into her eighth decade, Mirren looks youthful, real and is clearly confident in her own skin, despite the pressures of her image-obsessed industry.

“When I think about it [being 70], it seems impossible!” she laughs. “How can that be? Fortunately I’m someone whose nature it is to live very much in the present and not get depressed about my age or appearance. I would rather get on with my life,” she says. “One good thing about getting older is that even though you might not look as good as you once did, you don’t give a toss!”

With an Oscar and a Tony for her portrayal of Her Majesty in The Queen and The Audience respectively, but is there any part she'd really like to play? “I’ve always quite fancied playing a Bond villain,” she smiles. “A dangerous evil Bond villain who holds the world to ransom, that would be my ideal. Hopefully that will reach the ears of the powers who decide, and you’ll see me torturing Daniel Craig in some dastardly manner!” u

NOVEMBER 2015

17/11/2015 15:19

ARTS & CULTURE / REVIEW

FIRST IMPRESSION An Exhibition

by Edward Akrout Wo r d s S h e l b y W e l i n d e r

G

uests surrounded by foliage and fairy lights gathered to mingle in the garden patio of The Hoxton, the effortlessly cool hotel in East London. They were there for actor and artist Edward Akrout at the opening of his art exhibition, First Impression.

With corridors lined with Akrout’s charcoal, ink and acrylic designs, and larger oil paintings adorning the lobby entrance, the collection originated in New York City in the autumn of 2013 when a back injury immobilized Akrout.

Despite being paralyzed by pain, the city’s energy inspired him, coaxing him from his solitude into the streets. He

fueled his emotions into an array of contemporary abstract drawings and paintings, and completed the series in London at the beginning of the year.

Akrout’s work has stemmed from numerous stories and portraits of vibrant individuals he

THIS IS A COLLECTION OF

first impressions THE world made on Akrout has met throughout his life, with each narrative making a stronger impression than the last.

Painting came naturally to Akrout, who was raised in an artistic family. After selling his works privately for many years, he publicly debuted them in February 2015.

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Raised in France, and after studying in Paris, he moved to the UK to study acting at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art. Since graduating in 2008, Akrout has been prominent on both the screen and the stage.

However Akrout is quick to point out that, even though he can handle the daily criticism he faces as an actor, the idea of establishing himself within the art community terrifies him.

Evidently this has been the most personal venture for him.

There is an unmistakable connection between Akrout’s two chosen disciplines: As an actor his job is to inhabit different emotional states, and as an artist, he has an uncanny ability to capture the emotions of characters that he comes across.

Akrout simply stated that his collection is an array of first impressions the world made on him. The exhibition runs at The Hoxton Shoreditch until January 2, 2016. ◆ 81 Great Eastern St, EC2A; thehoxton.com

DECEMBER 2015

17/11/2015 15:38

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BURBERRY FESTIVE FILM, 2015 CHRISTMAS CAMPAIGN, SHOT BY MARIO TESTINO

> FASHION CONFIDENTIAL

p. 28

UP ALL NIGHT

p. 30

SHINE ON: GIFTS FOR HER

p. 37

IN BLOOM

p. 39

BURBERRY’S BILLY ELLIOT An all-star, all-British cast; an homage to this BAFTA-winning film: just in time for the holidays, Burberry has released its festive campaign, shot by Mario Testino.

With boho-luxe looks and a bouncing Romeo Beckham, we've just discovered the secret to a very merry Christmas. uk.burberry.com

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DECEMBER 2015

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st y l e C e n t r a l

Block colour dresses, statement clutch bags, and party heels are must-buys this month Wo r d s c h a r l o t t e a d s e t t

DESIGN DYNAMOS Wo r d s S T E P H A N I E K I N G

M

ay brought us the muchInstragrammed Jimmy Choo x Rafael Mantess ‘Choo Hound’; August witnessed Sophia Webster and Barbie team up; September saw Harrods and Dolce & Gabbana, Valentino and Givenchy unite for Harrods’ Catch Me If You Can sneaker showcase; October brought us label.m and Giles, J.W.Anderson and Diet Coke, and Roberto Cavalli and Disaronno; and November welcomed irrefutably 2015’s biggest fashion collaboration, H&M x Balmain. This year has witnessed huge brand unions, but there’s plenty more where that came from. Before Christmas additional killer combinations will be unveiled – the most noted, of course, being Burberry’s Claridge’s Christmas tree.

Featuring metallic gold and silver fabriccovered umbrellas, the tree-shaped sculpture by Chief Creative & Executive Officer Christopher Bailey will take up residence in the iconic hotel’s foyer. Fittingly Nicholas Kirkwood’s Christmas mini-range of Lurex-covered styles (above) will make for perfect gifts under the tree, as will Lacoste’s line of Charles Schulz’ Peanuts pieces. Now with just-announced shoe label Charlotte Olympia and MAC Cosmetics’ March 2016 release, next year is already looking very promising for limited editions... ◆

● H&M X BALMAIN hm.com

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10 Years, 10 Dresses Roksanda at Harvey Nichols

Colour Block Queen Roksanda has launched 10 of her most iconic dresses from the last 10 years in design, exclusively to Harvey Nichols.

The collection brings back the most popular styles available in new fabrications and colourways – just in time for Christmas.

Anerley Dress; £1,950, harveynichols

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FASHION / NOTES

8 of the best

NEW VINTAGE WilliamVintage for Liberty London

PARTY SHOES

Liberty London and William Banks-Blaney, founder of WilliamVintage, have collaborated to create an exclusive capsule collection inspired by 1960s haute couture. The readyto-wear range features both day and cocktail pieces, and are all made in England.

From £350-£945, liberty.co.uk

Dazzle on the dance floor in these hot heels

01 02

editor’s

PICK

SWING TIME Oscar de la Renta

After being spotted on the catwalks at Lanvin and Oscar de la Renta, and with the current mood for all things 1980s dominating the fashion scene, tassel earrings have made a major comeback. This elegant pair will add drama to a simple evening look.

Beaded Tassel Clip-On Earrings; £294, mytheresa.com

03

04

MAKE A STATEMENT Edie Parker

Stand out this party season with a statement clutch from New York handbag label Edie Parker. The distinctive acrylic bags are handcrafted in the US, with bespoke bags available to order on the Edie Parker website; customise yours with your name or favourite phrase.

‘Peace’ Clutch; £1,240, farfetch.com & edie-parker.com

05

06

SAVE THE CHILDREN M AT C H E S FA S H I O N .C O M

This Christmas, Save The Children has joined forces with this luxury etailer and five of the UK’s leading designers – Bella Freud, Giles Deacon, Charlotte Olympia, Henry Holland and Christopher Kane – to create five unique cashmere sweaters for charity. 100% of the profits will be donated to help the world’s most vulnerable children.

Cashmere Sweater; Each £365, matchesfashion.com

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07

08

01. JIMMY CHOO ‘Lilyth 120’ Sandals, £595, jimmychoo.com; 02. SOPHIA WEBSTER ‘Amanda’ Platform Sandals, £420, net-a-porter.com; 03. DELPOZO Leather Sandals, £1,165, farfetch.com; 04. AQUAZURRA X POPPY DELEVINGNE Leather Sandals, £640, aquazzura.com; 05. CASADEI Velvet Sandals, £585, casadei.com; 06.

NICHOLAS KIRKWOOD Glitter ‘Carnaby’ Sandals, £795, nicholaskirkwood.com; 07. BIONDA CASTANA ‘Lana’ Heels, £430, biondacastana.com; 08. SALVATORE FERRAGAMO ‘Lenny’ Sandals, £1,150, farfetch.com

DECEMBER 2015

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17/11/2015 16:18

l l a p U ht g i N to es c e i rp a e w g n n o i n as e e v s ty ye r e a k p e is Th th n i e l spark F

in art M e ett at Ads er K h e p t a t togr rlo Pho Cha r o dit on e ashi

Crochet dress ÂŁ3,360 Erdem at Harvey Nichols Leather & embellished heel shoes ÂŁ1,175 Rochas at Browns Gold Earrings from a selection by Shaun Leane Gold rings from a selection by Bee Goddess

DEC15_FashionShoot_5pp.indd 31

17/11/2015 16:18

BELOW: Embellished Mini Dress £2580 Balmain at Harrods Gold cross Earings from a selection by Bee Goddess Embellished Ear Cuff £162 Vicki Sarge Leather fingerless gloves with bracelet £180 Emmauellle Khanh Paris at The Shop at The Bluebird

RIGHT: Silk Jumpsuit £,1295 Temperley London Leather ‘Yasmina Pom Pom’ Sandals £750 Sophia Webster Gemstone Earrings £290 Vicki Sarge Precious Stone Ring (on left hand) £6,000 Amrapali Kalix Star Ring £199 Atelier Swarovski

DEC15_FashionShoot_5pp.indd 32

17/11/2015 16:18

DEC15_FashionShoot_5pp.indd 33

17/11/2015 16:19

BELOW: Lamé Mini Dress (worn as top) £850 Christopher Kane at Harrods Pleated Silk-Blend Maxi Skirt £660 Alice + Olivia at net-a-porter.com Glitter Sandals £365 Stuart Weitzman Rings from a selection by Leivankash

CREDITS: beegoddess.com brownsfashion.com fenwick.co.uk harrods.com harveynichols.com jimmychoo.com leivankash.com net-a-porter.com shaunleane.com sophiawebster.com stuartweitzman.com swarovski.com temperleylondon.com vickisarge.com Photographer Kate Martin Fashion Editor Charlotte Adsett Photographers assistant Olivier Barjolle Fashion assistant Elysia Agnew Make up by Camila Fernandaz using Chanel Christmas 2015 and Chanel Body Excellence Hair by Erika Selvaggio at Taylor Taylor London salon using Davines Nails by Kate Williamson @nailedbykw using Mavala and Eve Snow Shot on location at an interior by Caroline Legrand Design carolinelegranddesign.com

DEC15_FashionShoot_5pp.indd 34

17/11/2015 16:19

BLOOM.indd 1

17/11/2015 17:13

30th anniversary

Winter15 35 CAMDEN PASSAGE LONDON N1 8EA t 02077040043 162 REGENTS PARK RD LONDON NW1 8XN t 02077222478 WWW.SPICESHU.CO.UK

SPICE.indd 1

13/08/2015 16:01

FASHION / GIFT GUIDE LOEWE Leather Clutch; £425, brownsfashion.com

SAINT LAURENT ‘Janis 105’ Leather Ankle Boots; £720, farfetch.com

ISA ARFAN AW15

ANNINA VOGEL Diamond & Sapphire Crescent Moon necklace; £5,500, liberty.co.uk

CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN ‘Pigalle Follies’ Glitter Court Shoes; £445, matchesfashion.com

MARCO DE VINCENZO Pleated Lurex Skirt; £652, farfetch.com DOLCE & GABBANA + FRENDS Embellished Leather headphones, £4,600 net-a-porter.com

J.W.ANDERSON Gold Bauble Earrings; £290, avenue32.com

LEIVANKASH ‘Mata’ 22 kt Yellow Gold Plated & Grey Faux Pearl Ear Cuff; £230, leivankash.com

SHINE ON VALENTINO ‘Rockstud’ Leather Heels; £640, farfetch.com

These metallic show-stoppers are party season essentials

GALVAN Silk Crepe de Chine Dress; £995, avenue32.com

B y Charlot te Adset t

PROENZA SCHOULER ‘PS11’ Leather Mini Shoulder Bag; £1,330, matchesfashion.com

BEE GODDESS 14 kt Rose Gold & Black Diamond ‘Ishtar’ Star Ring; £470, harrods.com

37 Chis_Dec15_Fashion_Prod.indd 37

SALVATORE FERRAGAMO Mini Bucket Leather Bag; £850, mytheresa.com

DECEMBER 2015

17/11/2015 16:34

U SH R O STU W N R N TO OO IN G IN M N SP IS EW IR N E O 3 YO W FL U O OO PE R N

O

CLARITY BEGINS AT HOME Fine fitted kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms

3,200 Square feet of contemporary kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms from Italy and Germany. Mark Nicholas Design one stop shopping for the finest home interiors on display in London. Why not call today to arrange a consultation to find out what we can do for you.

32 & 34 Penton Street, London 48 Penton Street, Islington, Islington, London N1 N1 9QA 32 Tel: 020 7278 7573

MARKNICHOLAS.indd NICHOLAS.indd 11 MARK

Fax: 020 7833 2273

Email: enquiries@marknicholasdesign.com

www.marknicholasdesign.com

12/11/2015 15/09/2014 16:25 16:32

FASHION / SPOTLIGHT SILVER and gold plated AMI LEAF necklaces ILLUMINATE THE beauty of stones SUCH AS GARNET and GREEN ONYX

IN BLOOM

Absolutely goes inside Julia Cook’s East London jewellery store, Branch on the Park

instantly apparent. The goldsmith often highlights a single stone with her pendants and birthstone bracelets, or incorporates them into delicate designs such as her highly popular Granulation line featuring hoop earrings and rings bordered by small balls.

Cook’s hammered silver and gold plated ami leaf necklaces illuminate the beauty of stones such as garnet, turquoise, labradorite and green onyx, where her Happy Curly Initials necklaces can bear teardrop-shaped gems including amethyst, lapis lazuli, topaz and peridot.

Alongside this treasure trove of original designs, Cook also stocks a small selection of other designers’ work. But if you still can’t find the exact item you’re after, Cook is well equipped to create a bespoke piece.

Whether the commissioned project is for engagement ring, graduation present or simply a special treat, she delights in the collaborative process and can work with you to produce your perfect accessory. Shop online or stop by Cook’s studio store, underscoring the entire essence of Branch on the Park is a sheer love of jewellery. Whenever you wear a Julia Cook design you know that contained within it is genuine passion and care. ◆

Wo r d s S t e p h a n i e K i n g

E

ast London is a renowned mecca for design, and set in this epicentre of creativity is Branch on the Park, the independent jewellery store founded by goldsmith Julia Cook. Since 2010 the Central Saint Martins graduate has been selling her nature themed pieces from the Victoria Park store, as well as on her e-boutique, Blossoming Branch.

The lush, green spaces surrounding Cook’s Branch on the Park studio no doubt influence her beautiful collections, which

are handmade in-store and are full of leaf motifs and organic curved lines.

Offering a range of 18ct gold and silver styles, Cook exercises her over 20 years’ worth of experience to create eye-catching ready-to-wear accessories. These covetable trinkets, often accented by glistening precious and semi-precious stones, are showcased in vintage cabinets that enhance their antique aesthetic that harks back to the ancient Gem Palace collections.

From carved rubies and deep blue sapphires to vivid green emeralds or bright yellow citrines, Cook’s love of colour is

39 C&A_Nov15_BranchOnThePark.indd 39

● Branch on the Park

227 Victoria Park Road, E9; branchonthepark.co.uk

DECEMBER 2015

17/11/2015 16:35

Enjoy the convenience and privacy of a gym in your own home Technogym, the Wellness Company, invites you to view its range of home fitness equipment at the beautifully equipped, brand new showroom in Bracknell, Berkshire.

Health and Wellness are important, but time pressures and busy lives often mean our good intentions to move more and be active are overlooked.

Technogym works with you to design and create the perfect Wellness area, tailored to your home, space, budget and – most importantly – you and your family’s health goals.

To book your visit, please call a Technogym Wellness consultant on 0800 316 2496 or email uk_info@technogym.com Or visit us online at www.technogym.com

TECHNOGYM.indd 1

18/11/2015 09:14

> BEAUTY CONFIDENTIAL

p. 42

BEAUTY GIFT GUIDE

p. 45

HEADS UP Become a Dior girl for the festive season and take heed of the brand’s new State of Gold collection. Paint your pout vibrant shades, your nails in metallic hues, and keep your eyes smouldering using the darkest kohl. dior.com

41 Chis_Dec15_Beauty_Opener.indd 41

DECEMBER 2015

17/11/2015 16:37

B E AU T Y R e v i e w

The freshest beauty news for the Christmas period, and the metallic nail trend W o r d s R o m y va n d e n B r o e k e

JONES & PAYNE Shoredtich Wo r d s h e n n i n g d e w i n t e r

T

is the season for dry, damaged hair (at least for me), so this year I am taking precautionary measures to prevent the downfall of my ’do. Summer brings a new lease of life: it becomes thicker and sunkissed Ω whereas winter is not my friend. My hair (in the words of Cheryl Fernandez-Versini) becomes weak, limp and lifeless.

Now, I am not one to pamper myself too much, but perhaps I need to up it a few notches. With this in mind, I booked myself into East London’s premium hair salon, Jones & Payne, for a cut and treatment. The first of many my hair will be treated to this winter.

On arrival I was given a coffee before being led downstairs for my treatment. First a shampoo, then on went a deeply nourishing

THIS YEAR I AM TAKING AS many

precautionary measures TO PREVENT THE downfall OF MY ’DO

treatment from Redken. The two-part treatment works to moisturise and seal the newly applied moisture into the hair. After a quick trim and blowdry, my hair was left feeling soft and strong.

Jones & Payne is everything you’d want in a salon. Friendly, cool and they know what they’re doing. I’ll definitely be going back every six weeks for the foreseeable future. ◆

Red Handed Nails inc

New from Nails inc, as part of its NailKale collection, is the AW15 range, modelled here by Alexa Chung.

Choose from pretty hues such as berry purple, royal blue, baby pink and mint green. nailsinc.com

● J O N E S & PAY N E 73 Curtain Road, EC2A, 020 7613 6550; jonesandpayne.com

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

CHIS_Dec15_Beauty_Notes.indd 42

42 17/11/2015 16:41

HEALTH & BEAUTY / NOTES

7 of the best

METALLIC LACQUERS

CRYSTAL CLEAR Själ

New to SpaceNK, Själ Skincare adopts different elements of Chinese, Tibetan, Ayurvedic, homeopathic and vibrational medicine, to create a range of incredibly smart products, including a deep pore cleanser and an intense hydrating crème. uk.spacenk.com

02 01

03

THE DARK SIDE Burberry

A date for your diary: 1 February 2016.

This is the day this gorgeous looking bottle drops exclusively to Harrods.

My Burberry Black (as it’s officially known) is a darker version of My Burberry, containing notes of jasmine, peach nectar and amber patchouli. £100 for 90ml; harrods.com

best

BUY 05 04

editor’s

GIVE SOME LIP

PICK

Christian Louboutin Beauté

When asked what kind of woman can wear his signature red lipstick, Christian Louboutin responded “every woman”. Well, with this limited edition collection, every woman can. Inside are three versions of the red lipstick, in silky satin, velvet matte and sheer voile. £180; christianlouboutin.com 06

BRUSH UP 171 Hair and Beauty

’Tis the season to treat yourself, so head to 171 Hair and Beauty this December and receive a card with 20% off your next treatment. Or give the gift of beauty to a loved one instead.

171 Upper Street, N1; 020 7354 2266; 171hairandbeauty.com

43 CHIS_Dec15_Beauty_Notes.indd 43

07

1. ESSIE, Jazzy Jubilant, £7.99; boots.com 2. BUTTER, The Full Monty, £12; butterlondon.co.uk 3. TOM FORD, Onyx, £30; harveynichols.com 4. RMK, Ex39, £14; selfridges.com 5. BOBBI BROWN, Smokey Topaz, The Greige Collection, £12.50; bobbibrown.co.uk 6. RMS, Myth, £13; net-a-porter.com 7. BURBERRY, Festive Gold, £15; uk.burberry.com

DECEMBER 2015

17/11/2015 16:41

SIMON BETTS PERSONAL TRAINING GET FIT... FEEL HEALTHIER

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020 7354 2266 / 020 7354 3733 Opening Hours Mon - Fri 10.00am - 8.00pm / Sat 9.00am - 7.00pm Sun 11.00am - 6.00pm

_ADVERT PLACEMENTS_DEC.indd 1

15/2/08

11:12

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

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

020 7288 8080

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

Superb teachers. Superb facilities. Superb location.

17/11/2015 16:04

Page

HEALTH & BEAUTY / GIFT GUIDE LA PRAIRIE

Legendary Caviar Luxuries Collection, £668; harrods.com

CLARINS

Cupcake Stocking Filler, £15; harveynichols.com

LIZ EARLE

BIRCHBOX

Birchbox Beauty Subscription Package, three month subscription costs £38.85; birchbox.co.uk

CHANEL, COLLECTION ROUGE NOIR ABSOLUTEMENT

Beauty Icons Gift Set, £45; lizearle.co.uk

CODAGE PARIS

Skin Intervention, £79; codageparis.com

BUTTER LONDON

Twelve Months of Manis 12 -Piece Nail Lacquer Collection, £55; butterlondon.com

SPACE NK

Christmas Hamper, £150; uk.spacenk.com

YVES SAINT LAURENT BEAUTÉ Kiss and Love Colour Collection, £284; selfridges.com

GOOD LOOKING GIFTS

CARITA

Trio of Gold Coffret, £235; carita.co.uk

Extravagant coffrets and beauty sets to keep you looking good in the new year B y r o m y va n d e n b r o e k e

SISLEY

Youthful Glance Prestige Skincare Gift Set, £338; johnlewis.com

ELIZABETH ARDEN New York Beauty Must Haves, £60; boots.com

AESOP

A Certain Radiance Gift Kit, £75; aesop.com

45 Chis_Nov15_Beauty_Gift_Guide.indd 45

DECEMBER 2015

17/11/2015 16:39

CARLO ROTTA.indd 1

23/10/2015 17:34

> KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL

p. 49

RESTAURANT REVIEWS

p. 51

GIFTS FOR GOURMANDS

p. 53

© TARA FISHER

OH CHRISTMAS TREE...

It doesn’t get much better than homemade gingerbread at Christmas time. For a spectacular creation that tastes as good as it looks, try Mima Sinclair’s easy-to-follow recipe in her magical cookbook, Gingerbread Wonderland. £8.99; kylebooks.com

47 Chis_Dec15_Food_Opener.indd 47

DECEMBER 2015

17/11/2015 16:43

A new reference point for TV design.

New Loewe Reference Ultra HD. The pinnacle of television specification and design. A beautifully finished aluminium frame surrounds a unique high contrast glass filter panel which together with Loewe’s sophisticated Image+ processing delivers an unmatched Ultra HD 4K picture. All perfectly complemented with an unparalleled sound experience from a fully integrated 120 watt, eight speaker soundbar complete with Bluetooth audio connectivity. Manufactured in Germany.

Experience it for yourself at the Loewe Galerie in Harrods or www.loewe.tv

LOEWE.indd 1

20/10/2015 17:12

What to drink

FOOD & DRINK / NOTES

A GREAT MATCH Wine & food pairings for the month of December B y J a n e Pa r k i n s o n

CHESTNUT & LEEK TART

ith the earthiness of chestnuts and the richness of pastry there’s no better a grape match than Chardonnay, preferably one with a hint of oak, but not dominated by it. This Chilean version is seriously classy with gentle buttered pastry flavours and a good freshness to cut through the rich tart filling. ◆ Pandolfi Price Los Patricios Chardonnay, £16.95; bbr.com

W

TABLE TALK Tasty happenings from the local area W o r d s R O M Y VA N D E N B R O E K E

LOVELY SPREAD D aylesford

MOULES MARINIÈRE

classic dish that’s packed with flavour, the creamy garlic sauce plays just as important a role as the fresh mussels. Riesling from Alsace is a winning match because it’s usually dry as a bone but has a real depth because of the notes of honey. A sublime match with a garlic and cream sauce, plus dry Riesling is generally great with seafood. ◆ Cave de Hunawihr Riesling Vieilles Vignes 2013, £12.99; majestic.co.uk

Christmas is a time to go all out and indulge – you can worry about your waistline in January.

Take inspiration from Daylesford’s Christmas spread, pictured above, and go meat mad, with everything from turkey to goose. daylesford.com

A

CLEMENTINE CAKE

henever the tang of orange is in a recipe, savoury or sweet, I always think a wine with a distinct orange flavour makes the best pairing.

Tuscany’s celebrated sweet wine Vin Santo – here made with Trebbiano grapes – is the perfect answer because it’s packed with marmalade lusciousness, and this one is so intense and long-lasting it really complements the flavour of the cake. ◆ Vignamaggio Vin Santo del Chianti Classico 2008, £21.50; corneyandbarrow.com

W

janeparkinson.com

NEW TO TOWN

EASTERN DELIGHTS

Wr i n g e r & M a n g l e

East India Company

ew to London fields, Wringer & Mangle is a N new bar-cum-restaurant from hospitality entrepreneur, Gerry Calabrese. The food, devised by head chef Oisin Coyle, will feature innovative dishes like the ‘Build Your Own Roast’, while cocktails come in infusion jars. ◆ l wringerandmangle.com

nown for fine teas and other delicious goodies, East India Company have outdone themselves again with their Christmas offerings. With a range of hampers available, it’s the Ultimate Festive Flavours kit that has got our name on it. ◆ l eicfinefoods.com

PRODUCT OF THE MONTH

Perfect with roast beef, this Vintner’s Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon from Kendall-Jackson is full of ripe black cherry and blackberry notes, and concludes with a mocha finish. Beautiful now, even better on Christmas day. £19.50; slurp.co.uk

49 C&A_Dec15_Food_Notes.indd 49

K

DECEMBER 2015

17/11/2015 16:49

“Cheerily boisterous, exciting and big on atmosphere...the pasta tasted fresh and the combination of flavours was superb.” TimeOut Eating & Drinking

R E S T A U R A N T

&

P I Z Z E R I A

The finest Italian food made to order with the freshest ingredients.

Add sparkle to your celebration this festive season, with our warm ambience, sumptuous food, seasonal tipples & enough cheer to last well into 2016.

From lunches to dinners, we invite you to indulge in a feast of festivity. Rest assured we’ll take care of every detail to make it a truly unforgettable occasion.

On behalf of our Team, we look forward to making this a very Merry Christmas for all who visit us

0207 481 9950 • www.ilbordello.com • 81 WAPPING HIGH STREET LONDON E1W 2YN Lunch daily Monday to Friday: 12 Noon to 3pm • Dinner: Mon-Sat 6pm to 11pm • Sunday: 1pm to 10:30pm

BORDELLO.indd 2

18/09/2015 10:46

FOOD & DRINK / REVIEWS

Homeslice Pizza and prosecco: the perfect combination Wo r d s r o m y va n d e n b r o e k e

Crab Tavern

Absolutely tries another new opening in Broadgate Circle Wo r d s h e n n i n g d e w i n t e r

O

kay, you might be a little bored of hearing about Broadgate Circle. It has been a hot topic of conversation since Yauatcha moved in earlier this year. I was invited to dine at the Crab Tavern, another establishment on the block, to which I accepted. My dining companion and I arrived around 7pm on a Thursday evening when the circus was in full swing: City boys downing beers and a tumult that is what I’d imagine a trading floor sounds like. Perhaps supper on Thirsty Thursday in the City was not such a smart idea.

Determined not to let it ruin our dinner, we bypassed a pack of men and slid into the restaurant. Before we even made it to our seats, out came two flutes of champagne Ω I take it back, a Thursday was a great idea.

Four glasses down and wine ordered, we contemplated our food. Much to our disappointment the signature platter of King Crab Legs Ω better (and rather

confidently) known as the ‘Best Legs in Town’ Ω had sold out. Albeit disgruntled, we again, didn’t let this dampen our spirits, and instead ordered Maryland Crab Cakes and Goan Crab and Cod Curry.

First we shared the fried black pepper squid with lemon aioli. The squid was delicate and saline, and the zingy lemon aioli cut through the fried exterior beautifully.

And the West Coast Clam Chowder? Thick, creamy, and suitably crabby.

The Maryland crab cakes were wellseasoned, but nothing special, while the Goan crab curry was a nice surprise. It certainly isn’t going to compete with the curries you get in Goa, but nevertheless was flavoursome and had a nice kick of chilli.

Overall the meal was tasty, but it was certainly enhanced by the free-flowing booze. It was Thirsty Thursday after all. ◆

● crab tavern

Unit 7 Broadgate Circle, EC2M; crabtavern.co.uk

51 C&A_Dec15_Food_Review.indd 51

shall we just polish the rest off?” Slurred my dining companion across the table, nodding at the magnum of red wine between us.

“We may as well, we’ve gone this far...”

My friend and I arrived at the new Homeslice in Fitzrovia on a Wednesday evening, bright eyed and bushy-tailed, completely unaware of what lay ahead.

Homeslice is all about simplicity: there are no starters here, only pizza, served either by slice (a steal at £4 each) or a full 20 inch, depending on your gluttony. My friend and I, we are gluttonous indeed.

We decided to get two different pizza toppings – mainly so that when we got around to eating our millionth slice (they are properly big) we wouldn't be bored of eating the same flavour. My friend, in all of his manly glory, wanted something that resembled a meat feast, so he chose the salami, rocket and parmesan topping, while my refined palette secured something less Pizza Hut: mushroom, ricotta, pumpkin seed and chilli. Two glasses of prosecco down, and well into the magnum, which is how they serve wine here, by the way (it’s a dangerous game) out came the pizza. We consumed it in record time (somewhere between 10 and 15 minutes) and with it made our way through the rest of the magnum.

Deliriously happy/smashed, we left Homeslice knowing we’d be back again soon – not mid-week this time, and maybe we’d even try to practice some self control. Maybe. ◆

● homeslice

52 Wells Street, W1T; homeslicepizza.co.uk

DECEMBER 2015

17/11/2015 16:57

ABBEY ROAD FRAMING 020 7328 6915

Bespoke & Ready-Made Frames Mirrors, Limited Edition Prints Ceramics, Greeting Cards & Gifts

67 Abbey Road St John’s Wood London NW8 0AE info@abbeyroadframing.co.uk www.abbeyroadframing.co.uk Absolutely1502-AbbeyRoadFramingFINAL.indd 1

27/01/2015 16:32

ABSOLUTELY LONDON

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17/11/2015 16:05

FOOD & DRINK / GIFT GUIDE HABITAT

BISCUITEERS

Christmas Home Decorations, From £2.50; habitat.co.uk

Après Ski Biscuit Tin, £39.50; biscuiteers.com

HARVEY NICHOLS

CARLO ROTTA

Premium Italian Gianduia Chocolate Gifts, From £5.99; carlorotta.com

‘Party Starter’ Hamper, £200; harveynichols.com

PAUL A YOUNG

16-Piece Chocolate Truffle Box, £26; paulayoung.co.uk

LE COMPTOIRE DE MATHILDE

Chocolate Big Bar with Salt Butter Fudge Chips, £19.90; conranshop.co.uk

HABITAT

‘Ginger’ Copper Christmas Tree Cookie Cutter, £3; habitat.co.uk

NIEDEREGGER JOHNNIE WALKER X TUMI

Johnnie Walker Blue Label Scotch Whisky & TUMI Travel Case, £3,245; tumi.com

Elves Workshop Advent Calendar, £16; niederegger.de

WAITROSE

Cheese Selection, From £20; waitrose.com

GIFTS FOR GOURMANDS

Satisfy even the fussiest of epicureans with these premium food products

FORTNUM & MASON

Christmas Cherry & Cranberry Biscuits, £14.95; fortnumandmason.com

B y r o m y va n d e n b r o e k e

FINE FOOD SPECIALIST Imperial Caviar, £80; finefoodspecialist.co.uk

ARABICA BAR & KITCHEN

Fruit Preserves, Pastes & Chutneys; From £3.95, arabicafoodandspice.com

53 Chis_Dec15_FOOD GIFT GUIDE.indd 53

HARRODS

‘The Chelsea’ Hamper, £75; harrods.com

DECEMBER 2015

17/11/2015 17:00

U NS U R PA S S E D R E A L I S M With Balsam Hill’s exclusive True Needle™ technology, our artisan-designed trees are carefully handcrafted to match the colour and texture of natural Christmas trees.

Enjoy an EXTRA 10% OFF when entering code N O W 1 0 S AV E at checkout.

Coupon expires 20.12.2015.

S HO P O N L I N E AT W W W. B AL S AM H I L L . C O . U K

featuring the S ILV E R A D O S L I M ®

BALSAM HILL NH.indd 1

27/10/2015 09:14

> THE TOY BOX: WOODEN WONDERS FOR KIDS

p. 57

CHILD’S PLAY Designed by a little boy called Victor, who won Cashmirino's Christmas Sweater design competition in 2014, all profits from the sale of this festive sweater will go to supporting the Royal Brompton and Harefield Hospital’s charity paediatric department. £65; cashmirino.com

55 CHIS_Dec15_Kids_Opener.indd 55

DECEMBER 2015

17/11/2015 17:07

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theukweddingshows.co.uk *Offer ends the Thursday prior to the show (midnight). Ticket fee applies.

TRY IT

WEDDINGS SHOW.indd 1 UKWS16_Absolutely Mag_210x297.indd 1

BUY IT

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ENJOY!

14:19 17/11/2015 09:40

KIDS & EDUCATION / GIFT GUIDE

ALDIS CIRCENIS

‘Riga Roo’ Rocking Horse; £150; theconranshop.co.uk

MILLER GOODMAN Mini Shape Maker; £20; mollymeg.com

ROSENDAHL

Puffin Figurine; £99, skandium.com

LES JOUETS LIBRES Mesdames & Messieurs Draughts; £18; mollyandthewolf.com

GEORG JENSEN

Aquamarine Toy Figures; £85, skandium.com

MY FIRST YEARS

Red Soldier Skittles; £20, myfirstyears.com

ROWEN & WREN

‘Rock Ewe’ Rocking Sheep; £348, rowenandwren.co.uk

THE TOY BOX

10 wooden wonders to wow little ones this Christmas B y helen baron

ROCK & PEBBLE Pear House; £80, mollymeg.com

PETIT COLLAGE

Pop-Out & Play Dinosaurs; £9.95, mollyandthewolf.com

57 USE_Chis_Dec15_KIDS GIFTS.indd 57

KIKO+

Gatcha Gatcha Distributor; £35.65; smallable.com

DECEMBER 2015

17/11/2015 17:09

ESCAPE AND DINE IN STYLE WITH RELAIS & CHÂTEAUX IN THE UNITED KINGDOM AND IRELAND

Book a Charming British or Irish Escape in one of our country house or city hotels and experience great British or Irish food at it’s best prepared by some of the most renowned chefs. from just £350* per couple…

Participating hotels: Airds Hotel & Restaurant, Amberley Castle, Ballyfin Demesne, Buckland Manor, Chewton Glen, Cliff House Hotel, Cliveden House, Farlam Hall, Gidleigh Park, Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, Glenapp Castle, The Goring, Gravetye Manor, Greywalls Hotel and Chez Roux Restaurant, Hambleton Hall, Hartwell House & Spa, Inverlochy Castle, Isle of Eriska Hotel Spa & Island, Kinloch House, Longueville Manor, Lucknam Park, Mallory Court, Le Manoir aux Quat’ Saisons, Marlfield House, Northcote, Park Hotel Kenmare, The Royal Crescent Hotel, Sheen Falls Lodge, Summer Lodge Country House Hotel & Spa, The Vineyard, The Waterside Inn, Whatley Manor, Ynyshir Hall. *VAT may not already be included in some hotels. Dinner without drinks. This offer is valid all year for any holidays taken before December 30th, 2015 included.

Reservations must be made at least 72 hours prior to arrival date and are subject to availability. Changes may be done without prior notice. Rate based on two people sharing a double room. Accommodation in a double classic or superior room, a dinner for 2 people and a sumptuous breakfast for 2 the following morning.

Euros will apply in hotels in Ireland. For reservations please call 00 800 08 251 020** ** Toll free number

www.relaischateaux.com

RC_BADA Advert_2014_AW_NOV 20142#2.indd 1 RELAIS & CHATEAUX CHELSEA.indd JAN_ R&C DPS.indd 64

10/12/2014 17:59 17:25 23/02/2015 17:08 17/12/2014

> SWISS PERFECTION: HEAD TO MONTREUX FOR THE PINNACLE OF LUXURY

p. 60

PICTURE PERFECT This month, Stephanie King travels to Montreux in Switzerland, and discovers a haven of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage and food, glorious food.

59 C&A_Dec15_Travel_Opener.indd 59

DECEMBER 2015

17/11/2015 17:10

Swiss Perfection For an all-boxes-ticked luxury getaway, head to Switzerland’s Montreux, where even the fussiest of globetrotters won’t find fault Wo r d s S t e p h a n i e K i n g

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

C&A_Dec15_Switzerland_v2.indd 60

60 17/11/2015 17:13

TRAVEL / WANDERLUST THE FAIRMONT

Le Montreux Palace IS THE JEWEL IN

Montreux’s crown

Hotels of the World group has been a focal point for locals. Though Fairmont Le Montreux Palace’s Belle-Époque architecture also woos virgin visitors, its traditional beauty instantly gives guests a sense of its rich history, with the meeting rooms, upper lobby area, salon (where a lavish brunch is held every Sunday) and the opulent baroque ballroom all preserved in their original, turn-of-thecentury condition.

The accommodation, however, is a different story: all recently renovated, the mountain and lake facing rooms and suites are contemporary iterations of their classic predecessors. By all definitions they are grand, spacious, and decorated in a neutral colourway. This feeling of serene also extends to the hotel’s Willow Stream Wellness Spa. The health centre boasts a roster of spa and beauty treatments for maximum rejuvenation, plus a state-of-the-art gym, indoor and outdoor pools, hammam and sauna.

When you’re ready to up the tempo, Montreux’s deep musical roots provide ample inspiration, starting with the

M

ontreux is nirvana for the greedy. The resort town on the edge of Lake Geneva, Switzerland offers every possible thing you could wish for in a holiday destination. With the elegance of the French Riviera, the perma-pleasant climate of the Mediterranean, the magnificent food and wine of Italy’s central regions, and of course, the spellbinding views of Switzerland’s iconic Swiss Alps, it’s as if someone collected all of the ingredients required for The Perfect Holiday.

Then you realise it’s only an hour by train from Geneva airport. Welcome

to The Land of Have Your Cake and Eat it Too. This unexpectedly idyllic town feels regal. But perhaps that’s because of the music royalty that has played at its annual Jazz Festival. (Deep Purple’s iconic song, ‘Smoke on the Water’ was even inspired by the home to 24,500 people, when its casino burned down during the band’s 1971 concert.) Either way, the Fairmont Le Montreux Palace is the jewel in Montreux’s crown. Since 1906 the five star member of the Leading

61 C&A_Dec15_Switzerland_v2.indd 61

aforementioned Jazz Festival created by Claude Nobs in 1967. The world-renowned July music event welcomes greats from across the globe to its waterfront, where year ’round relics from previous hosts – including legends Quincy Jones, Miles Davis, B. B. King, David Bowie, Leonard Cohen, Santana and Grace Jones – are

DECEMBER 2015

17/11/2015 17:13

THE FINEST TIMBER WINDOWS AND DOORS

SALE NOW ON

NEW INSTALLATIONS, UPGRADES, AND REPAIRS

tiles etc.

020 7354 4800 4 Shillingford Street, London N1 2DP

01344 868 668

www.sashwindow.com

www.tilesetc.com | angel@tilesetc.com

TILES ETC.indd 1 _ADVERT PLACEMENTS_DEC.indd 2

17/11/2015 16:28 17/11/2015 16:31

TRAVEL / WANDERLUST LORD BYRON’S CHANCE MOORING DURING stormy weather REALLY PUT

Montreux on the map

scattered throughout the town. Though the best collection is located in Fairmont Le Montreux Palace’s fine dining restaurant, Montreux Jazz Café.

This highly sophisticated eatery is heavily seasoned with eclectic décor from Claude Nobs’ own home, including photographs of the Festival’s past acts, brightly coloured, mismatching crockery and glassware, a 1950s jukebox, and a kimono given to Nobs by Freddie Mercury. Next door Funky Claude’s bar serves as an über cool watering hole, and is notorious for spontaneous jam sessions that go well into the wee hours of the morning, not just during the Festival.

Aside from Montreux’s huge summer music fête, there’s plenty of other activities on offer: in the month’s leadup to Christmas, Montreux’s Marché de Noël dazzles market go-ers with its magical stalls, live music shows and festive atmosphere. Santa drops by his house atop the majestic Rochers-de-Naye, spreading good tidings against one of the most picturesque backdrops in western Switzerland. Reindeer or no reindeer, the vista of Lake Geneva and the Alps is

pretty spectacular whatever the season.

An equally sensational sight is Chillon Castle, made even better when viewed from a seat aboard Lake Geneva Cruise Line. This medieval landmark played a pivotal role in Europe’s past, as it was built to control military movement between the north and south. However it was Lord Byron’s chance mooring during stormy weather that really put Montreux on the map; his famed poem, The Prisoner of Chillon, was influenced by his time at the heritage-listed site, and you can see where he carved his name onto a pillar in the castle’s dungeon.

After taking the ferry to Lutry, Café de la Poste’s speciality, Filets de Perche Meunière, must be sampled. Pourquoi?

Because these buttered perch fillets are wonderful examples of quintessentially Swiss

63 C&A_Dec15_Switzerland_v2.indd 63

cuisine. So, stomachs lined and refueling finished, an obligatory wine-tasting at Le Lavaux Vineyards is a fabulous way to wile away an afternoon.

Further titillate your inner sommelier at nearby Vevey’s Place du Marché. Every Saturday there’s a ‘wine collective’ of sorts where you buy one glass and then get free refills. For those who champion the local wine producers a little too heartily, getting home is easy thanks to Montreux’s highly efficient transport systems – a service you can use for free as a Fairmont Le Montreux Palace guest.

One of the best things about Montreux is that you feel foreign. Too often, travelling to cosmopolitan cities doesn’t feel like you’ve explored anywhere new.

But in Montreux you can rediscover the meaning of ‘tourist.’ Even if you’re flying solo it’s an unintimidating yet eyeopening adventure. You’ll be returning for something far better than a block of Toblerone. And Montreux proves you can have it all. u ¢ Starting rate is £349 per night including breakfast. 2 Avenue Claude Nobs, Montreux, Switzerland, CH-1820, +41 21 962 1212; fairmont.com/montreux

DECEMBER 2015

17/11/2015 17:14

DINING LIVING OFFICE

London & Surrey

KITCHENS

020 7253 3206 or 01372 379810

BEDROOMS

www.wharfside.co.uk

WHARFESIDE_DEC.indd 1 Absolutely Magazine December 2015.indd 1

22/10/2015 15:37 22/10/2015 14:40

> INTERIOR INSPIRATIONS

p.66

INTERIORS GIFT GUIDE

p. 69

ZARA HOME

ROCKET YULE Elegant shapes, mix-and-match colours and motifs, and some great tropical touches all make Zara Home's latest range of tableware irresistible. We’re all set for an unconventional Christmas blowout. zarahome.com

65 Chis_Dec15_interior_Opener.indd 65

DECEMBER 2015

17/11/2015 17:18

10 of the best

christmas decorations

Nordic textiles and Christmas decorations to brighten every corner

HOLLY’S HOUSE

Graphite Lace Wrapping Paper; £6.95, hollys-house.com

Wo r d s J e s s i c a k l i n g e l f u s s

LPWK

Pignola Christmas Bauble, £14.50; alessi.com

HABITAT

‘Floreo’ Red Berry Wreath; £38, habitat.co.uk

must

HAVE

JO HECKETT

Mini Bauble Decoration Set; £32, culturelabel.com

BOMBKI

‘Little Treats’ Collection; £59, bombki.co.uk

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

CHIS_Dec15_Interior_Insp.indd 66

Perfect Finnish Klaus Haapaniemi As winter draws in, we’re going to be cosying up with artisanal and lifestyle brand Klaus Haapaniemi’s darkly seductive textiles.

Founded in 2010 by Haapaniemi and Mia Wallenius, the Londonbased brand offers ravishing designs deeply rooted in Finnish folklore, nature and traditional decorative arts.

81 Redchurch Street, E2; klaush.com

66 17/11/2015 17:21

HOMES & INTERIORS / NOTES

CRYSTAL CLEAR

Ve n u s r o x This Notting Hill institution and purveyor of beautiful objects specialises in stunning natural crystals and bespoke jewellery.

Versatile and captivating, the uncut crystals and polished spheres can either add a glamourous accent to a room or act as an eye-catching centrepiece.

25 All Saints Road, W11; venusrox.com

WHAT A GEM

Kim Sera Central Saint Martins graduate Sera Kim has turned her years of experience as a graphic designer to homewares. The result? A terrifically charming set of plates, napkins and cushions, all of which have been promptly added to our Christmas list.

From £18; kimsera.com

THE LINEN WORKS

Linen Advent Calendar; £58, thelinenworks.co.uk

PERFECTLY PUT TOGETHER

‘North Star’ Tree Decoration; £5, perfectlyputtogether.co.uk

WEDGWOOD

Neoclassical Snowflake; £25, wedgwood.com

SITTING PRETTY

Raft Furniture There are few things as comforting on a cold winter night as snuggling into the corner of the couch with a blanket and a book. Incidentally, few sofas are as inviting as the Oscar from Raft Furniture Ω an essential addition to any living room this Christmas. From £1,468; raftfurniture.co.uk ANTHROPOLOGIE

Pine Cone Gnome; £14, anthropologie.com

THE ART OF CRAFT

Simon Orrell This month we’re coveting this stunning geometric Avila Cabinet from Steve Orrell Designs. Crafted with blue and black straw marquetry, this eye-catching piece would look best against a boldly painted wall to really showcase its drama. £8,250; simonorrelldesigns.com

67 CHIS_Dec15_Interior_Insp.indd 67

SKANDIUM

Red Dalahorse Decoration; £3.50, skandium.com

DECEMBER 2015

17/11/2015 17:21

Sale starts January

Crouch End 128 Crouch Hill London N8 9DY Telephone 020 8341 2020

Islington 42 Cross Street London N1 2BA Telephone 020 7359 4041

www.funktionalkitchens.co.uk

FUNKTIONAL KITCHENS.indd 1

11/11/2015 11:07

HOMES & INTERIORS / GIFT GUIDE GEORG JENSEN

Cobra Candleholder Set, £1,186; discoverdeliver.com

TOM DIXON

Stone Pestle and Mortar £149; johnlewis.com

BOCCI

‘28d’Series Desk Lamp, £362; store.wallpaper.com

PINCH

‘Nim’ Table, £4,350; pinchdesign.com

ALESSI

‘Kalisto’ Kitchen Box, £175; alessi.com

ALESSI

Fior d’Olio Olive Oil Taster; £33; alessi.com

FORNASETTI

Small Hand Design Basin, £100; selfridges.com

JOE CARIATI

Small Decanter Tear Drop in Amber; £495; conranshop.co.uk

ALESSI

VENINI SPA

‘Bolle’Glasswear, POA; twentytwentyone.com

TIDINGS OF JOY 14 things we want to give and receive this year

By Jessica klingelfuss

OYUNA

‘Emun’, £72; discoverdeliver.com

STEPEVI

‘Mimosa’Silk Rug, £1,075 per m²; stepevi.com

THE+AUDIO

THE+RADIO, £219; theplusaudio.com

BEN ESTHOP

Western Red Cedar Bowl; £1,950; homeofartisans.com

69 Chis_Dec15_IntProd.indd 69

DECEMBER 2015

17/11/2015 17:23

020 8802 40 40 islington@myhome.co.uk MY HOME.indd 1

16/11/2015 14:13

NIGEL LEWIS: GRAND DESIGNS p. 77 PROPERTY ROUND-UP p. 80 IN THEIR OWN WORDS p. 88

EBURY MEWS N5

£1,900

his wonderful family home is situated on one of Highbury’s most sought-after tree-lined streets. With easy access to the City and West End with Drayton Park and Arsenal stations, Highbury Fields is also moments away. Completely renovated in 2010 to combine luxury detailing and modern technology, this striking property has been renovated to the highest specification and stands at 4,000 sq ft. u

T

ISLINGTON

P e r We e k

71 USE_C&A_Dec15_Prop_opener.indd 71

020 3657 7360

knightfrank.com

DECEMBER 2015

17/11/2015 17:48

St. Pancras Chambers, King's Cross NW1 A wonderful duplex apartment in this restored Grade I listed building Originally built in 1866 and converted in 2008-9, the property offers wonderful proportions with many of its original period features. 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, reception room, kitchen/dining area, living room, concierge and off street parking. Approximately 191 sq m (2,048 sq ft).

Leasehold

Guide price: £2,850,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/islington islington@knightfrank.com 020 3551 4459

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

KnightFrank.co.uk/SJW110161

KNIGHT FRANK.indd 1

Absolutely - 5-3 St. Pancras Chambers (Dec)

16/11/2015 15:56

13/11/2015 17:28:44

Keystone Crescent, King's Cross N1 A characterful and extremely attractive Grade II listed house Referbished by the current owners in an eclectic style and offering almost 1,250 sq ft of beautifully presented accommodation on this ever popular cobbled street within a stone's throw of King's Cross. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, reception room, kitchen/dining room, study and garden. Approximately 114.92 sq m (1,237 sq ft).

Freehold

Guide price: £1,450,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/islington islington@knightfrank.com 020 3551 4459

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

KnightFrank.co.uk/ISL150065

KNIGHT FRANK.indd 2

Absolutely - 17 Keystone (Dec)

16/11/2015 15:56

13/11/2015 17:30:27

CHRISTMAS IS A TIME FOR PLANNING Over the festive break, hundreds of people will be contemplating their next move Contact us today for a free market appraisal to make sure your property is waiting for them in the new year

KnightFrank.co.uk/lettings islingtonlettings@knightfrank.com 020 3657 7360

Guide price: £495 per week

Drayton Park, Islington N5 A spacious and well presented apartment on the ground floor of this apartment block. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, large reception room, open plan kitchen and terrace. EPC: D. Available furnished islingtonlettings@knightfrank.com Office: 020 3657 7360

All potential tenants should be advised that as well as rent, an administration fee of £276 and referencing fees of £48 per person will apply when renting a property. Please ask us for more information about other fees that may apply or visit KnightFrank.co.uk/tenantcharges

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

Guide price: £995 per week

St Paul Street, Islington N1 Recently refurbished house available in this superb location in the heart of Islington. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, large reception room, large open plan kitchen and dining area, cloakroom and private rear garden. EPC: D. Available unfurnished islingtonlettings@knightfrank.com Office: 020 3657 7360

KNIGHT FRANK.indd 3

Absolutely City & Angel December 2015

16/11/2015 15:56

13/11/2015 16:17:01

The

Plimsoll Building King’s Cross

Available now A collection of studios, one, two and three bedroom apartments to rent.

Residents will enjoy a 24-hour concierge, private dining space, residents lounge, a well-equipped fitness suite as well as a private resident’s courtyard on the second floor and a conservatory/viewing gallery on levels 12 and 13.

For more information or to speak with our lettings team please contact us on +44 20 8022 3739 kingscrosslettings@knightfrank.com

Computer generated images and photographs for indicative purposes only.

KnightFrank.co.uk/KingsCross

KNIGHT FRANK.indd 4 CT449 - King's Cross - Plimsoll development Advert_v9.indd 1

17/11/2015 01/10/2015 09:29 15:13

LIVE IN AMAZING KING’S CROSS The Regent’s Canal, Granary Square and the University of the Arts beyond

IT’S ALL ABOUT THE PLACE You have restaurants, cafes, parks and fountains; you have shops, squares and the joys of a canal; you have the best national and international rail connections in London and an extraordinary choice of some of the Capital’s most extraordinary homes.

Move in now and experience living at King’s Cross.

You have 6 tube lines, 3 mainline stations and a Eurostar. Live just 5 minutes from Oxford Circus, Piccadilly Circus and Covent Garden and a mere 8 minutes from Victoria.

KX_RES.indd 1 KXResidential_AbsolutelyCityandAngel_210mmx297mm_AW.indd 1

Please contact us at: enquiries@livingatkingscross.co.uk or call +44 (0)20 7205 4166 kingscross.co.uk/homes Marketing suite: The Plimsoll Building, 1 Handyside Street, King’s Cross, London, N1C 4BP

www.kingscross.co.uk

16/11/2015 16:08 15:32

PROPERTY / STYLE BIBLE Other past properties include Audrey and Jeff Lovelock's Holland Park home, Lansdowne House.

The conversion of a recording studio into a huge, multi-storey property.

THEY PAID £405,000 FOR A TINY PLOT AND THEN SUNK DOWN TO BUILD A £1M ‘HOLLYWOOD-STYLE’ MINI MANSION

GRAFTON CRESCENT

¢ Camden WHEN: 2013 WHO: Taxi firm founder Jonathan Broom and interior designer Deborah Sheridan-Smith THE BUILD: They paid £405,000 for a tiny plot in between two streets of Victorian houses, and then sunk down to build a £1m ‘Hollywoodstyle’ mini mansion. Main problem was gaining permission from 14 neighbours to do the digging.

GRAND DESIGNS

The Yard, East Dulwich

Nigel Lewis asks, whatever happened to London’s Grand Designs?

A

fter 16 years on our screens Channel 4’s Grand Designs TV show is now a national institution. And happily it’s still steered with wit and intelligence

by Kevin McCloud through the minefield of documenting troublesome self-build projects.

What few will remember is that it all started in London in 1999 at a house on Stock Orchard Street in Islington. Episode 1, Series 1 Grafton Crescent, Camden

followed a couple building a ‘house of straw’ which then was still an almost laughable building material and technique. Since then a further 14 London houses have been given the McCloud treatment. Here we find out what happened to three of the more recent ones after the cameras left. ◆

RUSSELL GARDEN MEWS

THE YARD

¢ East Dulwich WHEN: 2014 WHO: TV prop buyer Tracy Fox and film set artist husband Steve.

THE BUILD: The couple had a track record before attempting this project – they had done up a Victorian semi nearby for a healthy profit of around £500,000 and bought an old dairy working yard to build a very modern house including two studios, three bedrooms and walkway above the main living areas. The poly carbonate sheeting used in its construction prompted both praise but initially raised eyebrows from McCloud.

NOW: The couple still live and work there with their three children. ◆

77 Chis_Dec15_prop_G_DESIGN.indd 77

NOW: The couple put the property on the market late last year for nearly £4m but it isn’t clear whether they found a buyer or not. ◆

KEVIN MCCLOUD KEVIN MCCLOUD MBE IS A DESIGNER, WRITER AND TELEVISION PRESENTER BEST KNOWN FOR HIS WORK ON GRAND DESIGNS, WHICH HE HAS PRESENTED SINCE ITS DEBUT IN APRIL 1999 AND HIS RESIDENTIAL HOUSING DEVELOPMENT COMPANY HAB HOUSING.

¢ Brook Green WHEN: 2012 WHO: Claire Farrow and architect Ian Hogarth THE BUILD: On 2010 the couple sold their Earls Court flat and bought a £410,000 plot at the bottom of an upmarket mews in Brook Green and spent another £650,000 on building a four bedroom house. Apart from the pain of gaining planning permission for the modernist pile, the couple faced the challenges of building under the water table.

The house became famous for its basement nightclub dancefloor.

NOW: They still live there. ◆ For more information visit

channel4.com

DECEMBER 2015

18/11/2015 10:04

BlakeStanley

blakestanley.co.uk

BALLS POND ROAD

Alwyn Place, N1

020 7241 7000

£3,700,000 Englefield Road, N1

Unique, unlisted 1950s detached house designed by architect Harley Sherlock for his own family. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors along entire south elevation give wonderful feeling of light, looking onto a beautiful south-facing garden, with mature trees and plants.

Offered to the market with no onward chain is this raised ground floor period conversion. The property is presented in good decorative order and comprises two double bedrooms, generous reception with separate kitchen/diner and a three piece bathroom suite.

Freehold

Englefield Road, N1

Share of Freehold

£550 pw* Gibson Gardens, N16

Beautifully presented two bedroom flat to rent on the ground floor of this well maintained period conversion. The property is immaculate and has stylish interiors throughout, a large double reception and an open plan kitchen with double doors to a private garden.

Furnished

£575,000

£425 pw*

This stylish one bedroom house set within an impressive gated development boasts its own private entrance, stairs leading to a country kitchen and a wet room. The next level provides a double bedroom with storage and separate reception room overlooking the private garden.

Furnished

*Additional fees payable at the start of the tenancy - £120 inc vat admin fee per property and £60 inc vat reference fee per person. A check out fee is payable at the end of the tenancy, price varies on property size.

info@blakestanley.co.uk • BLAKE STANLEY_EAST_NEW_v3.indd 2

39 Balls Pond Road, Dalston, London, N1 4BW 16/11/2015 15:59

BS.indd 1

16/11/2015 15:21

PROPERTY ROUND UP The inside scoop in your area

BROOKSBY STREET, N1 £750,000, LEASEHOLD

HOUSE HUNTING

We sold a phenomenally special four bedroom house on Thornhill Square that exchanged in three weeks. This then gave the vendor the flexibility on his onward search to find his dream home. As result this was the most satisfying transaction, as everybody was pleased with how things had turned out.

JACK CHITTY

Sales negotiator Winkworth, Islington

FERNTOWER ROAD N5

£1.1m

n exceptional three double bedroom, two bathroom period conversion garden maisonette on a popular road in Highbury.

Close to Canonbury Station and an easy walk

A

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

CA_Dec15_prop_pru_.indd 80

was an eclectic mix of the classic warehouse design and modern style bathrooms and kitchen.

MOST SATISFYING TRANSACTION I’VE HAD:

MOST INTERESTING PROPERTY

A warehouse conversion just off City Road. It was an incredible flat full of the old quirks of a warehouse with the double height ceilings and exposed metal and brick work. The interior

to Highbury & Islington Station, Highbury Barn and Newington Green, this immaculate property offers wonderful village-style amenities.

Occupying the lower ground floor extension is the relocated living area, which opens out onto the sunny south-facing garden through full width bi-folds. These sliding doors seamlesslessly integrate the outside space with the interior, flooding it

EVERYBODY WAS PLEASED WITH HOW THINGS HAD TURNED OUT

I NEVER THOUGHT I’D SEE:

38 offers in a sealed bid scenario on a flat on Canonbury Street. To have 38 offers from 52 viewings was fantastic, and the only time we have seen so many offers on a Monday morning for one property.

Winkworth Islington, 020 7354 2480; winkworth.co.uk

with light. A stylish work top doubles as a breakfast bar, separating the kitchen from the bright living area.

Discrete under-lighting, wood floors, and the front guest bedroom to the front of the property are further features of this versatile property. u KFH Islington, 020 7226 2487; kfh.co.uk

80 18/11/2015 09:26

PROPERTY / NEWS

M E E T T H E PA R T N E R S

NEW BUILD

HOTBLACK DESIATO

THE HARPER BUILDING

Islington, 020 7226 0160; hotblackdesiato.co.uk

Starting from £440,000

STUART SHIERS I came to London from Manchester in 1985 and cut my teeth on Upper Street.

I joined Hotblack Desiato in 1987 and soon became partner, heading up the sales team in Camden Town for many years. I've now moved back to the Islington office, it's great to come full circle!

JAKE PERKINS I am the new guy of the Hotblack partners having joined in 1998. Time certainly flies when you are having fun, and having run the Islington office for many years I am now overseeing the Highbury and Archway offices. With lots of renovation going on, it’s an exciting time to be here.

F E AT U R E P R O P E R T Y

GRAND UNION WALK NW1

£3,445

Per Month

stylish and unique two bedroom house in the striking Nicholas Grimshaw canal-side development just moments from the amenities of Camden Town.

This property benefits from

A

JAMES BLISSETT

JUST LET

I have been with Hotblack since I was 20. I now run our New Homes section – a great (and successful) challenge – and have seen a huge increase in new homes over the past 25 years. The quality of housing in North London is constantly improving; it's great being part of something so new and energetic.

EDWARD STRAKER Negotiator

a private balcony overlooking the canal, off-street parking, and storage room on the ground floor.

The open-plan reception boasts high ceilings, with a kitchen and separate dining area. The upper mezzanine can operate as a study area or guest bedroom, which has guest shower room.

Unfurnished and available to rent now. u

Winkworth Islington, 020 7354 2480; winkworth.co.uk one bed’s have been particularly popular with professionals and students, many of whom have been keen to move in immediately. Plimsoll Building’s high standard of furnishing certainly helps the speed with which a tenancies are secured for these sensibly priced, modern apartments. u

Knight Frank

DAVID PINNICK

PLIMSOLL BUILDING, N1C

Some 37 years ago, I began working in Islington as a sales negotiator but have needed to adapt to reflect the changes in the market as well the huge technological changes. It’s a great business for anyone who likes meeting people and visiting properties, which has always been my 'thing.'

ollowing the F launch of The Plimsoll Building in King’s Cross we have seen a surprising trend where tenancies are being agreed without tenants even viewing the apartments. Studios and

Knight Frank King’s Cross, 020 3764 8915; knightfrank.com

SPOTLIGHT ON [ AVERAGE ASKING PRICE ]

£731,713

[ AVERAGE PROPERTY VALUE ]

N7 £565,531

L

ocated in sought-after Islington, The Harper Building is a stunning development that is separated into a trio of exclusive apartment blocks offering a range of studio, one, two and three bedroom apartments.

In the 1900s The Harper Building was home to The Harper Piano Co., who manufactured a range of instruments for cinema theatres.

This history has set the scene for the building today, which has been delightfully restored to radiate the style and sophistication of the grand piano once manufactured at the site.

A CONTEMPORARY INTERIOR WITHIN A BEAUTIFULLY CLASSIC BUILDING

The Harper Building offers residents the best of both worlds: a contemporary interior within a beautifully classic building. Inside, accommodation is in a neutral palette and of an open-plan design, elegantly accented by modern appliances.

The Harper Building is a short walk to both Holloway and Highbury & Islington Stations. Phase 1 of The Harper Building is now over 50% sold, so contact Currell now to register for the next phase release. u Currell 020 7226 6111; currell.com

Data provided by zoopla.co.uk

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A UNIQUE PERSPECTIVE ON BUYING, RENTING AND SELLING HOMES.

BROOKSBY STREET, ISLINGTON, N1

£750,000 LEASEHOLD

his outstanding two bedroom garden flat offers sociable open plan living space with two well proportioned bedrooms and a stunning private garden. two bedrooms | resident parking | fantastic location

STEWARD STREET, SPITALFIELDS, E1 £800,000 LEASEHOLD Conveniently situated down a quiet street opposite Spitalfields Market and seconds from Liverpool Street station is this attractive and contemporary two bedroom property that enjoys plenty of light and can be found on the 5th floor with lift and can be accessed via a secured street entrance with fob and phone entry system. two bedrooms | modern | balcony

ISLINGTON | 020 7354 2480 | islington@winkworth.co.uk HIGHBURY | 020 7989 7000 | highbury@winkworth.co.uk

SHOREDITCH | 020 7749 7650 | shoreditch@winkworth.co.uk winkworth.co.uk

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OFFICES IN LONDON, THE COUNTRY AND OVERSEAS. SEE THINGS DIFFERENTLY

13/11/2015 11:51

A UNIQUE PERSPECTIVE ON BUYING, RENTING AND SELLING HOMES.

COLLEGE CROSS, BARNSBURY, N1

£630 PER WEEK

A recently reno ated two bedroom split le el flat situated on the second and third floors of a eorgian period building. two bedrooms | two bathrooms | amazing location

EXCHANGE BUILDING, COMMERCIAL STREET, E1

£525 PER WEEK

A spacious, one bedroom apartment located in the heart of Spitalfields. The property boasts magnificent high ceilings, large windows and oozes quality throughout. Offering a large master bedroom with built-in wardrobes, high spec kitchen and 24-hour concierge, this is the perfect city apartment. one bed | first floor | off street parking

ISLINGTON | 020 7354 2480 | islington@winkworth.co.uk HIGHBURY | 020 7989 7000 | highbury@winkworth.co.uk

SHOREDITCH | 020 7749 7650 | shoreditch@winkworth.co.uk winkworth.co.uk

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OFFICES IN LONDON, THE COUNTRY AND OVERSEAS. SEE THINGS DIFFERENTLY

13/11/2015 11:51

A UNIQUE PERSPECTIVE ON BUYING, RENTING AND SELLING HOMES.

GAINSBOROUGH STUDIOS EAST, POOLE STREET, N1 £965,000 LEASEHOLD et ust moments from horedit h ark is this stunning two bedroom split level apartment. two bedrooms | two bathrooms | modern

SHEBA PLACE, QUAKER STREET, E1 £435,000 LEASEHOLD Winkworth are proud to offer for sale this stunning one bedroom apartment situated on the 2nd floor of this modern gated development. one bedroom| modern | upper floor

ISLINGTON | 020 7354 2480 | islington@winkworth.co.uk HIGHBURY | 020 7989 7000 | highbury@winkworth.co.uk

SHOREDITCH | 020 7749 7650 | shoreditch@winkworth.co.uk winkworth.co.uk

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OFFICES IN LONDON, THE COUNTRY AND OVERSEAS. SEE THINGS DIFFERENTLY

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A UNIQUE PERSPECTIVE ON BUYING, RENTING AND SELLING HOMES.

JOHN SPENCER SQUARE, ISLINGTON, N1

£590 PER WEEK

A fantastic eo eorgian property in the sought after ohn Spencer S uare, close to the beautiful green spaces of Highbury ields. two bedrooms | residents parking | ama ing location

BRICKLANE, SHOREDITCH, E1

£475 PER WEEK

A stylish second floor apartment on the fashionable Brick Lane, only 100 metres from Shoreditch High Street Station. two bedrooms | modern | upper floor

ISLINGTON | 020 7354 2480 | islington@winkworth.co.uk HIGHBURY | 020 7989 7000 | highbury@winkworth.co.uk

SHOREDITCH | 020 7749 7650 | shoreditch@winkworth.co.uk winkworth.co.uk

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OFFICES IN LONDON, THE COUNTRY AND OVERSEAS. SEE THINGS DIFFERENTLY

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NOBLE HOUSE PROPERTIES

YOUR NEW HOME AWAITS

ONLY 2 REMAINING UNITS AVAILABLE. PRICES FROM £675,000

STABLE PLACE, N4 www.stableplace.co.uk

Noble House Proper ties are proud to present their latest offering ‘Stable Place’. A boutique mews development, comprising just nine contemporary homes, all with outside space and set in a private gated mews with landscaped gardens. Featuring both houses and apar tments, Stable Place will appeal to both families and professionals.

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NOBLE HOUSE PROPERTIES

ABOUT Less than five minutes’ walk away is Finsbury Park itself, with boating lake, children’s play areas, exhibition space and a café. Finsbury Park and Stroud Green have an eclectic mix of boutique shops, cafes and restaurants amongst the quiet streets of Victorian houses as well as cultural amenities such as the newly formed Park Theatre. The area is home to one of London’s largest regeneration projects which began in 2012 and is due to be completed in 2017. The neighbourhood is rapidly transforming itself into a vibrant ‘go to’ destination whilst maintaining the diversity and ‘buzz’ of the area.

T R AV E L The Victoria and Piccadilly lines are just a five minute walk away; commuters can be in The City or West End in twenty minutes or jump on British Rail to travel out to Her tfordshire and beyond. If you work from home, Finsbury Park has so much to offer and is well wor th a look!

A NEW DEVELOPMENT FROM

020 7858 1090 - enquries@nhplondon.co.uk - www.stableplace.co.uk

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IN THEIR OWN

WORDS

NICK ROBINSON MATTHEW SUMMERFIELD Owner of BlakeStanley Estate Agents

Senior Sales Negotiator at BlakeStanley Estate Agents Photography

R E B ECCA N O O N A N

NICK

ow time flies; it seems I’ve only just got used to H writing 2015 and 2016 is around the corner. Well it is said that if you’re busy, time can rush by, and we have definitely been busy at BlakeStanley! We opened our second office on Chatsworth Road, E5 in 2014 and our third office on Balls Pond Road, N1 has just opened this year!

Saying this, the march of time could just be due to me hitting the big 4-0 this year, however since I’ve looked at least this age for the last ten years I’m not convinced. Thinking about it, it is more likely down to watching my children growing up.

Whatever the reason I am very much looking forward to the Christmas break in which I plan to spend some down time with family and friends.

Before we get to Christmas, though, there is still a lot of work to do: People may think December isn’t a great time to sell their property but there are still a lot of buyers around who are keen to head into the New Year with the purchase of their new home under way.

FROM ALL AT BLAKESTANLEY WE WISH YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS & A HAPPY NEW YEAR

Also don’t forget it’s a time when, typically, we are visiting lots of different houses of friends and family which can spur people on to make a move for their new dream home.

So if you are thinking of selling in 2016 my advice is get the property details drawn up ready for marketing next year but in the meantime have us offer it to our database of potential buyers now. Who knows; you may start the New Year with one less thing to do...

MATTHEW

s a kid growing up I dreamt of being a professional footballer, and I did make it to a pretty good local level. Unfortunately, a passion for the pitch changed to a love of extracurricular student life and the dream became just that!

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Since leaving university I have had a long history in the sales industry, so I am used to scoring different goals in different arenas.

However, it wasn’t long before the lure of working in property won me over and I joined the BlakeStanley team six years ago.

I have harboured a great interest in the property industry for a long time and I relished the idea of revamping my old home from head-to-toe (although the final bill wasn’t quite so enjoyable!).

I always enjoy seeing new properties and each individual sense of style that the owners put into them. Plus it gives me great ideas for my next revamp project!

Working in Hackney for the last six years I have seen a tremendous change in the market, and the demographic within the area means I have dealt with people from all backgrounds. My current mission is helping to set up our new office in N1.

I look forward to dealing with the diverse people and property in this new area, which I have transgressed from our Broadway Market office previously. u

BLAKESTANLEY ESTATE AGENTS / 020 7241 7000 / blakestanley.co.uk

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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SALES

The Beaux Arts Building, Holloway, N7 | ÂŁ475,000 Offered chain free, a superb one bedroom third floor flat with concierge located in this architecturally stunning Edwardian building.The property features a modern fitted kitchen, spacious reception with double height ceiling, mezzanine bedroom and tiled modern bathroom.

Spacious one bedroom flat | Set in a stunning converted Royal Mail sorting office | Mezzanine bedroom | Communal gardens | EPC rating: Band E

Marlborough Road, Upper Holloway , N19 | ÂŁ550,000 Located on a quiet tree-lined residential road this 2 bedroom spilt level flat arranged over the top two floors within an imposingVictorian Terrace.The property consists of 2 large bedrooms, spacious reception, kitchen, modern bathroom with the rear of the property overlooking tranquil gardens.

Period conversion | Spilt level | 2 bedroom | Immaculately presented | Original wood flooring | EPC rating: Band D

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LETTINGS

Pastor Court, Highgate, N6 | ÂŁ790.00 Per Week This spacious penthouse apartment has been refurbished to a high specification & offers large reception room with access to private roof terrace, fully fitted kitchen, three double bedrooms two with en-suite bathrooms and a further family bathroom, there is also a further roof terrace off of the master bedroom.

Three Bedroom | Penthouse Apartment | En-suite | Roof Terrace | EPC Rating: Band C

Loraine Mansions, Caledonian Road, N7 | ÂŁ425.00 per week This incredibly spacious ground floor Mansion flat with large private rear garden.The flat is offered fully furnished and in excellent order.The property is situated down a quiet and leafy avenue within short walking distance of Caledonian Road (Piccadilly Line) and Holloway Road London Underground stations.

2 large double bedrooms | Brand new fitted kitchen | Private garden | EPC rating: Band TBC

407-409 Holloway Road London N7 6HP t: 020 7607 5001 drivers.co.uk DRIVERS&NORRIS.indd 2

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PROPERTY / NEW TO THE MARKET

SHOWCASE HEMINGFORD ROAD  N1

£3m Freehold

truly outstanding Grade II listed, five double bedroom terraced house, set on one of Barnsbury’s most desirable tree lined roads. The house offers a wealth of accommodation arranged over 5 floors, with a one bedroom apartment on the lower ground floor ideal for guests. A beautiful West-facing garden is accessible via both the raised and lower ground floors.

Hemingford Road affords superb access to the Caledonian Road and Highbury & Islington train networks. u  Chestertons Islington, 020 7359 9777; chestertons.com

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detailing, this exceptional property has wonderful proportions and is ideally suited to family living. u  Knight Frank Islington, 020 3657 7340; knightfrank.com

HIGHBURY HILL  N5

£4.35m Freehold

handsome semidetached Victorian villa offering almost 4,000 sq ft of beautifully presented accommodation together with a 77' landscaped garden on one of Highbury's most sought after streets.

Thoughtfully refurbished and extended by the current owners to combine modern technology with period

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NEWINGTON GREEN ROAD  N1

£1.1m

Freehold

his stunning four bedroom house has T been tastefully decorated throughout and offers flexible accommodation over three floors. The property has been refurbished by the current owners and extended on the lower floor to create a

wonderfully social living space and kitchen with access onto a tiered landscaped garden extending to almost 60 ft. The upper floors offer a family-size bathroom with a separate shower, in-built audio system and four well proportioned double bedrooms – one of

which has a balcony commanding views to the rear.

Benefits include wet underfloor heating and the property has also been fitted with Cat 6 wiring. u  Winkworth Islington, 020 7354 2480; winkworth.co.uk

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INSTANT VALUATION INTERACTIVE Get a Free Instant Valuation at www.portico.com/valuation Call to arrange a Free Valuation on

0207 099 4000 or email Abigail@portico.com

SALES

MAINTENANCE

LE T TINGS

portico.com

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12:02 15/06/2015 11:46

JUDD STREE T, BLOOMSBURY, WC1H 9NE ÂŁ475 PW

KE Y FE AT URES Light bright double bedroom Luxury bathroom suite Georgian town house Very close to transport links Open plan fitted kitchen Ample storage

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Acton 020 8993 6767 Battersea 020 7738 1538 Bloomsbury 020 7291 0650 Camden 020 7482 1060 Clapham 020 7501 0454 Dulwich 020 8299 6066 Fulham 020 7731 7788 Hammersmith 020 8748 3630 Highbury 020 7288 9440 Islington 020 7354 3283 West Hampstead 020 7794 1000

portico.com

LIVERPOOL ROAD, ISLINGTON, N1 0RE ÂŁ1,250 PW

KE Y FE AT URES Georgian house split over 4 floors 3 bedrooms Family bathroom & separate shower Stylish kitchen / dining space Spacious double reception room Beautifully presented rear garden Hard wood flooring

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PROPERTY / PRICE COMPARISON £

NIGEL LEWIS

PRICE BANDS

Space to play up top for all? We discover London’s rooftops and gardens

£ 250,000-£ 500,000 here’s a bit more choice in this price bracket – approximately 50 are currently available; 20 of which are in south London and the rest north of the river. The further you venture out from central London the more access you have to two and three bedroom apartments with communal gardens.

T

L

ondon has many joys to offset the pain of solid traffic, sooty underground trains and expensive pubs. And one of them is the extraordinary range of homes available to buy.

One example is the apartment that comes with access to a communal garden. The idea is, if you’re getting oppressed by the four walls around you, just pop upstairs for a spot of sun bathing or an afterwork drink with the neighbours.

Or, simply survey the local rooftops, cast your eyes over London’s breath-taking vistas, and generally thank your lucky stars you’ve got access to such an incredible space.

The apotheosis of this at the moment is the Battersea Power Station development which is to include three themed roof gardens developed by international landscape designer and gardener Andy Sturgeon. He comes well recommended, including three Chelsea Flower Show gold medals to his name. Prices for apartment within the old power station start at £800,000 for a studio and rise to £2.7m for a three bedroom apartment.

London currently has 250 or so apartments for sale with communal roof gardens, most of them bunched within inner London.

So, what can you get for your money?

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WESTMINSTER QUARTER, A NEW DEVELOPMENT IN CENTRAL WESTMINSTER WITH SEVERAL COMMUNAL ROOFTOPS.

LEFT A THREE BEDROOM APARTMENTS IS FOR SALE IN SIDWORTH STREET, HACKNEY FOR £985,000 THAT COMES WITH THIS AMAZING COMMUNAL ROOFTOP POOL AND TERRACE. GREENE & CO, 020 7604 3200.

BELOW WHEN THE REDEVELOPMENT OF BATTERSEA IS COMPLETE IS WILL INCLUDE THREE COMMUNAL GARDENS AT DIFFERENT LEVELS ON TOP OF THE DEVELOPMENT.

£ 500,000 TO £ 1MILLION he most properties in this price bracket can be found between £650,000 and £750,000. They are most concentrated along both sides of the Thames in the many new blocks that line it, as well as new builds in super fashionable Clerkenwell and to the north of City in places like Whitechapel. There are plenty of examples elsewhere, though. This includes Paddington Exchange, a development that’s organised around communal roof terraces and where prices start at £995,000 for a one bedroom apartment. A similar development called Westminster Quarter also offers apartment owners access to a stunning rooftop terrace overlooking central London.

One bedroom units start at £959,000.

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£ 1M

PLUS

here are just 21 properties for sale in this price bracket with access to communal roof terraces and are all north of the river and in Prime Central London. They’re a mixed bunch, though: from an apartment in a period house conversion on Abbey Road, to an unusual mansion block behind Battersea Park and the increasingly ubiquitous apartment tower two-bedroom apartment on the fashionable parts of the river. ◆

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THE APOTHEOSIS OF THIS AT THE MOMENT IS THE BATTERSEA POWER STATION DEVELOPMENT

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

ABOVE

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PROPERTY / ADVICE ASK THE EXPERT

ANDREW FLINT Property Partner

FROM COLMAN COYLE GIVES HIS EXPERT ADVICE ON ALL OF YOUR LEGAL PROPERTY QUESTIONS Q

&

A

I HAVE JUST MOVED INTO A HOUSE AND DISCOVERED THE LOFT IS FULL OF THE SELLER’S POSSESSIONS. IS THERE ANYTHING I CAN DO ABOUT THIS?

T

he contract that you and your seller would have entered into would have stated that the property was sold with vacant possession. This means that not only should the sellers have physically moved out but all their possessions should also be removed from the property as well. Furthermore, as far as the conveyancing process is concerned, the seller would have completed a form called a Property Information Form and one of the questions on this form relates to rubbish being removed from the property including lofts, gardens, outbuildings, garages and sheds. Therefore, your seller is strictly speaking, in breach of contract because they have not given vacant possession in accordance with the terms of the contract. My advice is to arrange for the loft

to be cleared, and if it involves any additional expense – for example, hiring a skip – then send the receipt and invoice for the out-of-pocket expense to your solicitors and ask them to forward a copy to the seller’s solicitors with a view to the seller footing the bill. If the sellers pay, then I think that result would be satisfactory; but if it falls on deaf ears, there isn’t much more you can do because taking some form of legal action is simply not going to be worth your while because the cost of pursuing such an action would far outweigh the money at stake. When you move again, to avoid the same problem, I would suggest that you ask your solicitor to really emphasise the fact that you are expecting the loft to be fully cleared and if necessary, you could visit the property shortly before completion to check that the property has been fully cleared. u

Contact Property Partner Andrew Flint with no obligation on 020 7354 3000, or email andrew.flint@colmancoyle.com.

Managing your property can be chaotic...

We make it simple.

Contact our Property Management teams now to find out how: Block Management 020 7231 3545 Residential & Commercial Management

020 7354 8080 p.whish@currell.com

Currell

80 Upper Street, Islington, N1; colmancoyle.com

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We sell and let many of the best properties across Clerkenwell.

To sell or let your home this winter, contact us now.

Clerkenwell: 020 7253 2533 122/124 St John Street, Clerkenwell, London EC1V 4JS

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Myddelton Square, EC1R £675pw

Clerkenwell Road, EC1M £635pw

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Myddleton Square, EC1R £1,050,000

Great Sutton Street, EC1V £685 pw

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LD SO LD SO T LE St John Street, EC1V £865pw

Featherstone Street, EC1Y £1,700,000

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St John Street, EC1V £675pw

Clerkenwell Road, EC1M £690,000

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Brewhouse Yard, EC1V £810,000

Garrett Street, EC1Y £1,800,000

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Kingsway Place, EC1R £670,000

Brewhouse Yard, EC1V £485pw

currell.com

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Selling or letting your property is a very important decision, so let our dedicated team walk you through the process. We offer a personal service you can depend on from start to finish – and one of the most experienced property teams in your area.

For a free market appraisal call into your local office at 353 Upper Street or call us on 0203 641 6138.

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