EAST MARCH 2015

ABSOLUTELY EAST

MARCH 2015 / £3.95

SEXY SADIE

FROST ON FASHION, FILM AND FOOD

ISLAND IN THE SUN

PARADISE AT DAIOS COVE

SUPER MUM

JUSTINE ROBERTS SPEAKS HER MIND

BOLT FROM THE BLUE SUDDENLY IT’S SPRING

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contents March 2015

52 ART & CULTURE

16 HEALTH & BEAUTY

08 WHAT’S ON

28 BEAUTY NOTES

10 SADIE AND THE CITY

31

Diary dates for March

Frost on fashion, food and film

16

Sweat Lodge Yoga takes over

FASHION

STYLE CONFIDENTIAL

School up on the newest trends

FOOD & DRINK

37 TABLE TALK

Marco Pierre White’s kitchen exploits caught on camera

24 SHINE BRIGHT

tomfoolery’s Wedding Showcase

HEALTH NOTES

Russell Bateman’s top tips for that springtime body fix

39 VIVA MEXICO

Recipes to spice up your life

41

FOOD REVIEWS

The Grill Room and Berners Tavern

TRAVEL

Covers

city and Angel Photography LOUISE SAMUELSON Styling CHARLOTTE ADSETT North by NorthWest GERRY WEBER

w w w . g e r r y w e b e r.c o m East GERRY WEBER

w w w . g e r r y w e b e r.c o m

52 CRETAN MAGIC

Catherine Hales discovers Daios Cove, the jewel of Crete’s north coast

66 BEHIND CLOSED DOORS

The secrets of Midland Bank are revealed in this extract from Unseen London

73 PROPERT Y SHOWCASE

The latest in buying and letting

IN THEIR OWN WORDS

INTERIORS

Views from local estate agents

The best of the Greek blue trend

Nigel Lewis’ point of view

60 INTERIOR INSPIRATIONS

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37

STYLE BIBLE

MARCH 2015

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OSKA 20 Montpelier Vale London SE3 0TA T 0208 852 9774 blackheath.oska.com OSKA 71 Heath Street London NW3 6UG T 0207 433 1482 hampstead.oska.com

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EDITOR HELEN BARON EDITORIAL ASSISTANT CATHERINE HALES, ELIZABETH HUTTON CONTRIBUTING FASHION EDITOR CHARLOTTE ADSETT CONTRIBUTING INTERIOR EDITOR JESSICA KLINGELFUSS CONTRIBUTING HEALTH & BEAUTY EDITOR ALY HAZLEWOOD EDITORIAL INTERN KELSEY DORNFELD ADVERTISING ACCOUNT MANAGER KRISTIAN BRUMBY MAJOR ACCOUNTS DIRECTOR TAMSIN LUCK PROPERTY DIRECTOR ANDY ELMER PROPERTY EXECUTIVE JENNI RAWSTHORNE NORTH PROPERTY EDITOR HUGO HUNTER ART DIRECTOR RAY SEARLE SENIOR DESIGNER PHIL COUZENS PRODUCTION MANAGER STEWART HYDE MIDWEIGHT DESIGNER GEMMA ISTEED PROPERTY EDITORIAL DESIGNER ANDREW MAVIN DESIGNER EKREM YILMAZ JUNIOR DESIGNER REBECCA NOONAN PRODUCTION CONTROLLER CHRISTINE MANN FINANCIAL CONTROLLER ZUL MUHAMAD CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER ALEXANDRA HVID ACCOUNTS ASSISTANT AYSHA HABIBI PA TO THE DIRECTORS MARIANNE MCFADDEN DIRECTORS GREG HUGHES, ALEXANDRA HUNTER MANAGING DIRECTOR SHERIF SHALTOUT For editorial enquiries please email: catherine@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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EDITOR’S letter

W

here would we be without our mothers?

In March we celebrate them; it seems apt, then, that this is the month in which I bid the Absolutely team adieu in order to become a mother myself.

My thoughts have been very much switched on to the ‘wonder women’ of the day lately, women who manage to pursue careers or creative passions while raising families – and who in doing so come to embody (and sometimes enact) political change. I’m not alone in thinking about this: the digital generation has ‘revived’ feminism in the last few years, putting the gender gap, equal pay and the issues of maternity leave and flexible working back on the agenda.

One woman I was keen to speak with in this regard is Justine Roberts, the North London mum-of-four and founder of Mumsnet who has previously been voted the most powerful woman in the UK. Now a bit of a figurehead, in Mumsnet Roberts has created a

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powerful online voice for mums not just in the capital but nationwide. See what she has to say on page 49.

We also hear from another famous North London mum, Sadie Frost (again, head of a brood of four), about her latest endeavour, healthy eating tome Nourish: Mind, Body and Soul on page 10, while elsewhere we have gift ideas for Mother’s Day (page 33) and an afternoon tea special (page41) featuring our current hotel crushes – in case you want to treat your mum to tea for two this year.

Of course, it’s not all about wonder women – or rather, most wonder women aren’t City high fliers or celebs. They’re regular working women and devoted mums who give their all to ensure their loved ones are taken care of. Just like my mum. So I’ll take my leave by dedicating this issue to her and women like her: Happy Mother’s Day. 

Helen Baron Editor

MARCH 2015

12/02/2015 16:49

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SADIE AND THE CITY

p. 10

STEFAN BOSTROM © MR ELBANK, TAKEN FROM ‘BEARD’ EXHIBITION AT SOMERSET HOUSE, 5-29 MARCH 2015

> WHAT’S ON: OUR PICK OF THIS MONTH’S EVENTS

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MARCH 2015

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PEDDLING

PORTRAIT OF ALEXANDER MCQUEEN, 1997, PHOTOGRAPHED BY MARC HOM

4 - 2 8 Ma rc h Arc o l a T he a tre ritten and performed by Harry Melling this play follows a pedlar W boy who awakes lying on the grass, a firework in his hand, but no memory of how he got there. Join him on this haunting journey as he tries to uncover what went on the day before. ◆ 24 Ashwin Street, E8; arcolatheatre.com

DRINK, DOODLE & DRAW 1 Ma rc h JW 3

Savage Beauty Al exa n d e r Mc Q ue e n

STEVIE

From 14 March Victoria & Alb ert Museum

Having attracted more than half a million visitors at the Met Museum in New York, this retrospective brings Alexander McQueen’s creations back home to London. Showcasing the romantic and gothic themes and concepts used throughout his remarkable career, visitors will be able to marvel at everything from his early MA graduate work made in 1992 to his final, unfinished AW10 collection.

Cromwell Road, SW7; vam.ac.uk

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ick up a pencil and let the fun begin as JW3’s cafe is transformed into an artistic playground. Drawing games led by artist Lisa Gornic, who works in film, TV and performance design means that this event is perfect for beginners and artists alike. ◆ 341-351 Finchley Road, NW3; jw3.org.uk

P

Fro m 6 Ma rc h Ha m p s te a d T he a tre tevie Smith is a secretary at a S publishing company. She spends her evenings at home eating Battenberg, drinking sherry and gossiping with her beloved aunt. Behind the mundane front however, Smith is writing piercing poetry and prose that will one day make her famous. ◆ Eton Avenue, NW3; hampsteadtheatre.com

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ARTS & CULTURE / TALKING TOPICS BOOK PICKS

GOYA

T h ro u gh o u t Ma rc h C o u r ta u l d G a ll e r y euniting the widely R scattered pages of Francisco Goya’s Witches and Old Women collection, this is a significantly groundbreaking exhibition.

Having never intended for his works to be seen outside of his friendship group, Goya drew without restriction or fear making his work particularly powerful. ◆ Somerset House, WC2R; courtauld.ac.uk

Marc h’s

Top Th ree Re ads

THE WALK HOME R a ch e l S e i ffe r t Vira g, £ 14.9 9

A powerful tale about the risk of love makes you feel for Lindsey as she grapples with Brenda. Rachel gently brings in dangerous characters and develops their sinister nature into a crescendo as the story unfolds.

CLASSIC CAR BOOT SALE

must read

14-15 March S o uthb ank Ce n t re his vintage car boot sale has got itself quite the T reputation. Offering punters the finest in vintage fashion, accessories and homewear, all from the boot of vintage cars, this is the place to find truly timeless treasures. The market also features street food and craft beer so make the most of this event and have a party. ◆ Belvedere Road, SE1; classiccarbootsale.co.uk

◆

THE VEGETARIAN Ha n Kang

G ra nta , £ 1 2.9 9 This off kilter novel from Korea is simultaneously beautiful and sinister; an inattentive husband fails to understand his wife’s new found vegetarianism in a culture that frowns upon such things - sending their family into disarray.

◆

FORENSICS

T h ro u gh o u t Ma rc h Well c o m e C o ll e c ti o n orensic scientists can read dead bodies. They F can find out where they came from, how they died – and who killed them. This exhibition challenges the forensic medicine created and shaped by sensational crime dramas and highlights the entwining of law and science in a way that will both fascinate and disgust. ◆ 183 Euston Road, NW1; wellcomecollection.org

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ARSENIC FOR TEA: A Well s & Won g Mys ter y

R ob i n S t e v e n s C o rgi B o o ks , £6.9 9 The second instalment in this delightful murder mystery series for children is just as much fun as the first. Set in the 1930’s these are written with a quirky modern slant.

Tremendous fun for wily girl detectives.

MARCH 2015

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Sadie & The City Primrose Hill’s Sadie Frost reveals the secret to her multitasking ways Wo r d s e v e h e r b e r t

T

he name Sadie Frost has long been synonymous with the North London scene. Born in Islington to psychedelic artist David Vaughan and his 16-year-old muse, Mary Davidson, hers was a distinctly colourful upbringing. An iconic face of the late 90s as an actress and model, Frost, along with her Primrose Hill set contemporaries – Kate Moss, Meg Mathews, Noel Gallagher and ex-husband Jude Law to name a few – was integral to North London’s Brit-pop early Noughties social fabric. Frost is mum to Finlay, 24, from her marriage to Gary Kemp; and Rafferty, 17, Iris, 13 and Rudy, 12, her children with Jude Law. These days, her partying days are – almost – over and she’s all about wellbeing; from meditation to yoga to detoxifying nutrition.

With a varied and bustling career that today incorporates designing for her fashion line FrostFrench, creating films with her production company, Blonde to Black Pictures, and co-writing her wellbeing tome Nourish: Mind Body and Soul with sister and fitness expert Holly Davidson and chef Amber Rose, one would imagine that Frost’s schedule is jam packed.

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Frost’s days can be both productive and creative, when planned from her

North London base

But by making time for health and wellbeing, Frost’s days can be both productive and creative, when planned from her North London base, whether that be her diet, the school run, or simply de-stressing at the end of the day.

‘Healthy eating is just about being organised. It’s making sure you have your fridge filled up with the right kinds of things,’ she says, ‘your basic foods that you know have a huge amount of nutritional value.’ She adds that, ‘I try to be home for the children at tea time,’ and that if she does get tied up with work commitments, ‘the next day I’ll do something to compensate that. To keep myself fit and healthy enables me to have the energy.’

Frost identifies as a Londoner through and through, but with career success can come the add-ons of overseas travel; and ever since modelling in her late

teens, Frost has become well accustomed to jetting about for both business and pleasure.

‘Sometimes I’m travelling a lot with work and this year I did visit Los Angleles a few times,’ says Frost. The start of 2015 also saw trips to the Indian regions of Goa and Kerala, but for Frost, the idea of two weeks glued to a sun lounger doesn’t remotely appeal. ‘I’m not very good at going on holiday and just eating, reading, drinking and sitting by a pool,’ she admits. Rather, recreational time away from home must include, ‘lots of yoga.’

Personal favourites spots being Turkey, ‘a great destination with some great places to visit,’ and Greece, ‘again, for their yoga retreats,’ the wellbeing guru opts for trips that incorporate both health and fitness.

And come Valentine’s Day, rather than strutting the red carpet at some glitzy event, or sunning herself in an exotic retreat, Frost reassures us that she’s over grand gestures.

‘From a very early age I’ve always been into romance and presents and cards and all those kinds of things, making a lot of effort,’ she says, but twice-married Frost is aware that the meaning of February 14th extends beyond material goods. ‘For me, these days mean something, but they

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ABSOLUTELY / FEATURE

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MARCH 2015

12/02/2015 15:19

ABSOLUTELY / FEATURE What I like about

LONDON AT THE MOMENT IS IT JUST SEEMS TO BE quite an

exciting place

have become very consumerist. It’s all a little too much, the build up and the pressure on the day.’

Telling Absolutely that, ‘Yes, enjoying a nice dinner with your loved ones is lovely,’ she adds that, ‘when you’ve had quite a lot of Valentine’s days, you just want to keep things simple.’

Reflecting back on romantic days of past, excursions that stand out have often taken place closer to home. ‘I have gone away to the countryside; I have had nice walks and just been outside in the elements and felt healthy and been with nature.’ With a favourite location being, ‘The Pig in Dorset, I went there recently,’ if the West Country seems a bit of a stretch, Frost also enjoys nature within the capital itself.

Saying that North London has, ‘a lot of wonderful parks,’ you don’t have to travel far for a little seclusion. ‘I’ve got two Bichon Frise dogs, Rosie and Ringo, so I like getting up early and taking them for a walk, whether it’s Highgate woods or the Heath, I like being outdoors,’ she says.

And there’s certainly a lot to keep her

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occupied at home in London.

‘I like the fact that I’m very close to a lot of things,’ she grins.

Along with the parks, ‘there’s the canal to walk along, plus you’ve got great transport – it takes me seven minutes to get into town. I like being in the park, I like going to the gym, I like going to yoga, I like working. I work in Soho a lot of the time and I can get all over London very quickly.’

‘There’s great films, there’s great theatre, what I like about London at the moment is it just seems to be quite an exciting place; things are changing,’ she smiles, growing excited. Being that her many ventures extending into film, fashion and beyond, the capital is also the best place to keep informed.

‘There are a lot of new cinemas, ones like Genesis in Whitechapel, that

really support independent film. And I’m lucky because I’ve got two Everyman cinemas literally on my doorstep, too.’

It’s no surprise the cinema plays such a big part in Frost’s life these days; together with friend Emma Comley, Frost branched out from acting into film production in 2011. Their recent feature film offering, Buttercup Bill, was a hit at the Raindance film festival, something which Frost modestly calls, ‘a dream.’

‘Some things never get finished or they never get distributed and to have that all tied up now is great - I’m just ready to go into the next one,’ she smiles.

As a woman inspired by an evolving London, Frost has also adopted the ethos of nurturing new talent within the film industry, claiming this, ‘makes me excited about getting new projects, giving people opportunities when they may not have had those opportunities, really valuing people, and really recognising talent.’

‘There’s a lot of choice, a lot of scripts, a lot of people to meet but when you recognise someone who is a true talent, it’s really just sticking with them and persevering and raising the money that will create something worthy of both them and yourself.’

2015 seems to be the year that all of Frost’s many avenues are coming to fruition; so what does she pin as her greatest achievement?

‘Obviously having four children I feel like that was an amazing achievement - to do that and have a career. My book, Nourish, I really adore, and to have completed two feature films, I find that a huge achievement as well.’

If wellbeing, meditation and nutrition are working for Frost, perhaps it’s time other Londoners follow the sentiment of Nourish.  Nourish: Mind, Body & Soul

by Sadie Frost, Amber Rose and Holly Davidson is out now

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CONCEPT

KITCHENS CONCEPT KITCHENS | DESIGN & FUNCTION

Kitchen dreams are coming true...

40, Offord Road, Islington N1 1EB 020 7700 1555 www.conceptkitchensislington.co.uk

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GIFTS

•

CLOTHING

•

CARDS

Sublime is a fashion and lifestyle boutique, a haven of delectable delights and everywhere you look there are gorgeous treats and gifts. We source our products from all around the world and because we’re finding new things all the time, with each visit you never know what you might find.

www.sublimeshop.co.uk 225 Victoria Park Road, London E9 7HD 020 8986 7243 & 126 St. John Street, London EC1V 4JS 020 7253 1112

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> FASHION CONFIDENTIAL

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OUT OF THE BLUE

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SHINE BRIGHT: WEDDING SHOWCASE

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GO FASTER STRIPES This season sees a strong collection from Jimmy Choo, which includes sculpted heels, colour blocking stripes and modernist graphic lines that reference surrealist and abstract artwork. jimmychoo.com

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MARCH 2015

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st y l e C e n t r a l

FASHION

Refresh your wardrobe this month with stars, fringing and stickers for your handbag Wo r d s c h a r l o t t e a d s e t t

Off The Beaten Track

Wo r d s V i o l e t N ay l o r - L e y l a n d sking a more youthful version of myself: ‘Do you own a pair of sensible shoes?’, you’d have gotten: ‘Pah!’ or a ‘Hahaha! I don’t do sensible shoes’, or something similarly nauseating. And I didn’t. I wore Converse or heels. A trip to Clarks didn’t appeal (too school-y), Russell and Bromley wasn’t cool for flats then, I hated trainers, I couldn’t afford Ferragamo and I never got into shop-lifting, so I didn’t own a pair. Luckily, the jobs I had between 18 and 25 – as a fashion stylist, a journalist, and also at a nightclub – didn’t require them, but at that stage, shoes and clothing were to look fab, not to feel comfortable. My aunt Beatrix reminded me the other day of a pair of particularly wooden-

A

I couldn’t afford FERRAGAMO and I never got into SHOP-

LIFTING, SO I DIDN’T OWN A PAIR. looking, gold, curly-toed Indian men’s sandals I was wearing once. She had asked if they were comfortable, and apparently I had replied: ‘No, it’s like wearing devils’ tampons, but aren’t they beautiful?!’ I can’t recall saying this but don’t doubt rhetoric like that sticks in the memory, so I’m happy to concede. These days I shy away from devils’ tampons. Having worn so many in my youth, I now have an irreparably damaged back. That said, nothing in fashion excites me more than having my mind changed. Clever British designers such as Nicholas Kirkwood and Church’s have honed androgyny in women’s shoes to such elegant perfection that I can’t decide whether to treat myself to a pair of Kirkwood’s metallic azure leather loafers [ £295, pictured above] or Church’s studded Brogues. No one said life was easy… 

● V I O L E T N AY L O R - L E Y L A N D Stylist and owner of fancy dress boutique Violet’s Box;

violetsbox.com

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Comeback Kid Jaeger

Three years after facing bankruptcy, Jaeger is back with a bang. The new focus is on timeless classics with designer fabric quality and iconic Jaeger silhouettes. Oh, and did we mention that ‘90s Supermodel Kirsty Hume has made a long awaited return to modelling as the face of the spring/summer 2015 collection. jaeger.com

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FASHION / NOTES

6

NAIL ART H&H Nails

of the best

Looking for the ultimate in nail art?

Make-up artist Holly Silius and jeweller Hannah Warner have created a collection of 3D precious metal nails and ornamental finger rings that fuse sculpture and fine jewellery. A-list endorsement has come in the form of Madonna, Rihanna and Beyonce.

Finger ring £460 holly-hannah.com

TRENCH COATS Embrace spring showers with a chic belted trench

01

02

FRINGE BENEFITS Tim Ryan

Make a statement this season in one of Tim Ryan’s bohemian fringed jackets which tick all the Haute Hippy trend boxes. Loomed by hand in the UK, these jackets sell out fast, so buy one whilst you can. Lurex jacket £1,495 avenue32.com

STICKER SHOP

04

Anya Hindmarch

Join the fashion pack and customise your handbag or smartphone with Anya’s permanently adhesive leather stickers. Choose from a range of alphabet letters and cartoonish emoji symbols. From £45 per leather sticker anyahindmarch.com

03

ROCK STAR Tommy Hilf iger

Stars were a major trend on the SS15 catwalks and are an easy wardrobe update. These Ziggy Stardust inspired star-spangled ankle boots are the boots to be seen in this spring, £450 tommy.com

05 06

01. GUCCI, Wool trench coat, £2, 060; net-a-porter.com 02. BURBERRY PRORSUM, Suede + PVC trenchcoat, £2,395; burberry.com 03. J.W. ANDERSON, Cotton trenchcoat, £995; brownsfashion.com 04. RICHARD NICOLL, Crepe trench coat, £840; net-a-porter.com 05. MOSCHINO, PVC trench coat, £720; harveynichols.com 06. BURBERRY LONDON, Cotton trench coat, £1,595; mytheresa.com

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MARCH 2015

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Wool coat £1,190 Osman at Harvey Nichols Cashmere sweater £455 Gucci at net-a-porter.com Necklace £1,250 Annina Vogel Shoes £435 Bionda Castana

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Out of the

BLUE From teal to aqua and all shades in between, blue is the colour of the new season Fashion Editor charlot te adset t Photography louise samuelsen

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12/02/2015 14:39

Mesh sequin top, £595 Mary Katrantzou at Browns Mini skirt £295 McQ at Harvey Nichols Earrings £350 Sarah Noor

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Woven hat; £760 Laura Apsit Livens Stretch top £570 Stella McCartney at Browns Cotton blazer £1,075 Stella McCartney at net-a-porter.com Leopard print flares £199 Felder Felder Peeptoe shoes £650 Jimmy Choo

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12/02/2015 14:39

Satin dress £480 Carven at net-a-porter.com Diamond necklace £850 Annina Vogel Suede court shoes £375 Jimmy Choo

Contributing Fashion editor: Charlotte Adsett Photographer: Louise Samuelson Model: Martine at Nevs Fashion assistant: Hannah Sargent Make-up: Andriani Vasilou at Stella Creative Artists using Benefit Cosmetics and Nails Inc Hair: Fabio Nogueira at Frank Agency using Aveda Thanks to Bexley Heritage Trust for the use of Danson House in Bexleyheath which is available for hire www.bexleyheritagetrust.org.uk 01322 526574 STOCKISTS anninavogel.co.uk biondacastana.com boticca.com brownsfashion.com cadenzza.co.uk charlottesimone.com dukestreetemporium.com felderfelder.com gianmarcolorenzilondon.com harveynichols.com jimmychoo.com lauraapsitlivens.co.uk net-a-porter.com selfportrait.com sarahnoor.com sonalbhaskaran.com theshopatbluebird.com

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BATH SORTS

BATHROOM DESIGN SPECIALISTS

38 Offord Road, Islington N1 1DL 020 7700 1333 www.bathsorts.co.uk

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metier b y t o m fo o l e r y

Shine

BRIGHT Get the inside scoop on the tomfoolery Wedding Showcase, the ultimate destination for bridal jewellery

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I

n 1994, Nicki and Peter Kay opened tomfoolery, a small gallery in Muswell Hill, that became one of the first, well-known contemporary jewellery boutiques in London representing an array of artistic influenced unique jewellery from predominantly British designers.

These days the shop is run by their daughter, Laura who was handed the reins in 2011. Though one of three sisters, Laura always knew she would be the one to run the boutique, having worked there on and off since she was 15.

Despite enjoying a career in styling and production for high end brands such as Hermès and Liberty, in 2011 Laura was drawn inexorably back to Muswell Hill.

One ambition she has realised since taking over the shop is the design and production of a collection by tomfoolery, entitled metier. Laura feels confident that the

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ABSOLUTELY / PROMOTION

P o l ly Wa l e s

to the stock and introducing the Wedding Showcase three years ago.

‘I noticed customers coming to see us to purchase “unique” engagement rings,’ says Laura. ‘I thought it would make sense to start the showcase and it has been a great success gathering attention from customers all over the UK.’ An opportunity to browse some truly spectacular and orginal designs, the showcase acts as an opportunity for those who wish to find an engagement ring, or other items for their wedding day, that will set them apart from the usual princesscut-diamond-solitaire wearing crowd whilst retaining the quality and luxury needed for an truly timeless piece.

metier b y t o m fo o l e r y

collection will be a success as, after two years of running the show, she has really come to grips with what her clients are looking for. ‘We use mixed metals, predominantly raw white gold due to its natural tones which is far more wearable than the brash more commercial rhodium finish which can be harsh on skin tones,’ confides Laura. ‘metier uses less traditional raw, unusually cut natural diamonds and coloured precious stones alongside tonal designs to make the ring feel timeless. Every stone we use is unique and very hard to source again.’

During the past few years, Laura has made a few changes to the identity of the boutique, adding a more alternative mix of fine, contemporary, fashion and craft

R u t h To m l i n s o n

S a r a h P u lv e r ta f t

There will be 30 DESIGNERS involved in the WEDDING

part of you the longer you wear them.

Joining them is Disa Allsopp, whose work is inspired by the ancient jewellery of the Etruscans, Egyptians and Greek and Roman civilizations.

Whether you have something specific in mind, or wish to browse the collections for inspiration, tomfoolery's Wedding Showcase is the perfect place to do it – because everyone deserves to shine bright on their wedding day. 

SHOWCASE

This year, there will be 30 designers involved in the Wedding Showcase (including metier, of course) and it will include innovative ideas for bridesmaid gifts, jewellery for the bride and naturally, engagement and wedding rings to die for.

Among these designers are Polly Wales, whose original and beautifully imperfect designs seek to enhance each individual woman rather than provide temporary and (let’s be honest) thoroughly boring and overdone flash.

Award-winning jeweller Ruth Tomlinson, too, will be in attendance with her bridal and wedding collection of wearable, luxury rings. Those looking for something a little more exotic will want to check out Rusty Thought, a Japanese designer whose pieces are crafted to become a

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A l e x i s B i t ta r

Sw e e t P e a

The Wedding Showcase will launch on the weekend of 21st March, with bubbly and canapés galore and will run until Saturday 2nd May. tomfoolery will be open seven days a week for the event, Monday to Saturday 9:30 - 17:30 and Sundays 12:00 - 16:15.

109 Fortis Green Road, N10 3HP, 020 8444 7000; tomfoolerylondon.co.uk

MARCH 2014

12/02/2015 15:55

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> BEAUTY CONFIDENTIAL

p. 28

FITNESS CONFIDENTIAL

p. 31

MOTHER DEAREST: GIFTS FOR HER

p. 33

ICE NAILS Funky nail varnish brand CiatĂŠ have launched their SS15 campaign, The Ice Cream collection, which showcases pretty pastels in every shade imaginable. ciatelondon.com

27 C&A_MAR15_Beauty_Opener.indd 27

MARCH 2015

12/02/2015 15:32

fitness R e v i e w

This seasons best scents, facial heaven and sulphate-free haircare to sample W o r d s R o m y va n d e n B r o e k e

SWEAT LODGE YOGA The Poultry

Wo r d s e l i z a b e t h h u t t o n

e all know first-hand that winter London is brutal. Windy, rainy W in and freezing, it hardly screams ‘outdoor yoga’, yet each and every Saturday, come rain or shine, those at Serene Social head out onto the Coq d’Argent rooftop to warm up and sweat it out with a powerful Vinyasa class. A concept that was born in warmer climes across the pond, Serene is famed for their open-air yoga sessions in both NYC and LA. Specifically designed to enlighten and inspire a life of passion and purpose for women, the group’s American go-get-it mentality means that the mix of invigorating and energy balancing poses allow you to let go of the week’s tension and enter the weekend feeling fully refreshed. Hosted by Leslie Saglio, an über friendly Americanexpat, and led by the empowering yogi Karin Lilleberg, everyone is encouraged to stay behind after class for an aprés-yoga breakfast which is highly recommended by us - you’ll leave feeling decidedly angelic for having not just stretched and strengthened your body and mind but having also made a couple of new friends.

We’ll see you out on the roof.u

Rule Britannia Burberry

It-Girl du jour, Suki Waterhouse is heading up British heritage brand Burberry's newest fragrance campaign, Brit Rhythm, which is enough to have us well and truly sold. burberry.com

● S W E AT L O D G E YO G A Until 28 March, Coq d’Argent, The Poultry, 1 Poultry, EC2R; serenesocial.com

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

C&A_MAR15_Beauty_Notes.indd 28

28 13/02/2015 10:22

HEALTH & BEAUTY / NOTES editor’s

PICK 5 of the best

Sulphate-Free Haircare Ranges

GET THE GLOSS Bobbi Brown

Lipgloss is making a comeback this spring and Bobbi Brown have nailed the subtle wet look with this pale trio taken from their new spring Illuminating Nudes collection. bobbibrown.co.uk

TAKE A CHANCE Chanel

Every woman knows Chance by Chanel, their playful fragrance for adults, which now comes in three limited edition bottles, each a different size to ensure you always smell fresh. selfridges.com

01

BLUE VELVET Perricone MD

Scientifically formulated for a deeper clean, this new cleansing treatment removes skin-aging pollutants, impurities and makeup residue, without stripping the skin of essential oils – pH balance is restored and skin is left velvety smooth. £35; johnlewis.com

02

for

03

HIM best

BUY TRUE BLUE Acqua di Parma

Treat the man in your life, whether it's your brother, father or partner, to Acqua di Parma’s new Italian Resort Collection, Blu Mediterraneo.

It smells otherwordly. acquadiparma.com

29 C&A_MAR15_Beauty_Notes.indd 29

05 04 1. OGARIO SALON HYDRATE DUO £35; ogariolondon.co.

2. UNITE MOISTURISING SHAMPOO (£17.40) & CONDITIONER (£18.80); urbanretreat.co.uk 3 ORIGINALMINERAL MAINTAIN THE MAIN DUO, £47; selfridges.com 4. NANOKERATIN RE-ENHANCE REFINING SHAMPOO & CONDITIONER, £20 each; nanokeratinsystem.co.uk 5. PUREOLOGY HYDRATE SHAMPOO & CONDITIONER, £16 each; feeluinique.com

MARCH 2015

12/02/2015 15:31

HIGHGATE P R I VAT E H O S P I TA L

HIGHGATE HOSPITAL_OL.indd 1

11/02/2015 16:19

to p T i p s

HEALTH & BEAUTY / NOTES

SBC

Your springtime body SOS from the man behind the illusive and exclusive class for supermodels Wo r d s R u s s e l l B at e m a n

SPRINT Perform sprint intervals for conditioning.

A variety of protocols work, but if you’re pressed for time do ten uphill 40 meter sprints with 30 seconds rest.

Fitness

CONFIDENTIAL Get in shape with the top fitness trends, tips and gear



DE- STRESS The way you manage stress is so important.

The hormone cortisol is released when you are under physical and mental stress.

Eliminate anything that isn't improving the quality of your life. Try meditation or yoga, walking, SBC and more sex. 

F U L L B O DY SBC sessions are primed to illicit major fat loss from the tummy area through primal human movements like crawling and squatting. These movement will really fire your central nervous system in turn helping to shred fat. 

EXERCISE Single leg burpees and SBC crawl jumps will hit your legs in all the right places.

Challenge yourself with different variations of exercises. Don’t bore your body because it will switch off. 

SUPPLEMENTS Drink green tea, it’s a great fat burning stimulant and has a myriad of health benefits. 

To shift fat on your legs eliminate excess oestrogen and toxins. Consume a high fibre diet along with cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and kale which contain diindolylmethane (or DIM) that helps your body get rid of excess oestrogen that could be making your legs bigger.

●THE SBC COLLECTIVE for more information visit thesbcollective.com

Wo r d s H e l e n B a r o n

TIE DIE FOR

We A r e H a n d s o m e he Aussie brand are T better-known for their eye-catching graphic swimsuits. Now they have launched into activewear and we can safely say the six-piece exclusive collection is as awesome as they come… and will see you in the gym keeping those new year’s resolutions. wearehandsome.com

Beauty & Go eed your skin with these groundF breaking bioactive MacroAntioxidant filled beauty drinks. Created by the same genuis’ behind luxury skincare brand Natura Bissé and leading functional beverage company AMC Group, each little bottle packs a pretty punch.

selfridges.co.uk

Dream Team

Nike x & Other Stories rriving just in time to save our feet from the A terror that is fashion week, & Other Stories and Nike have designed a dreamy pastel-washed ranged of trainers that will take us straight from the tube to the front row. From classic mid-tops to retro pumps, this art-heavy collab is simply divine. stories.com

31 C&A_MAR15_Health.indd 31

JUICED UP

MARCH 2015

12/02/2015 15:41

Branch on the park is a beautiful jewellery shop set in the heart of vibrant East London's Victoria Park. A treasure trove packed with all that glistens and sparkles.

Owner and Goldsmith Julia Cook has created a well thought out environment for you to spend time looking at jewellery. The shop has a collection of twinkly lit vintage cabinets filled with precious and semi precious gemstone, gold and silver jewellery.

Julia also makes private commissions.

If you are getting married or engaged and need a ring or just want something unique, Julia will very happily design and make you whatever you wish.Clients really enjoy the process of having a piece made, talking through the design, choosing from a selection of gemstones and coming to see the piece whilst its being made.

Everyone is always delighted with the outcome!

BRANCH ON THE PARK.indd 1 11.02.14_initial.indd 1

Behind the shop counter is a compact yet perfectly formed workshop, with two workbenches, rows of hammers and all the tools of the trade. Julia loves to use colour so there are strings of different gemstones hanging by her bench ready to be made into something gorgeous.

227 Victoria Park Road, London, E9 7HD +44 (0)20 8533 7977 www.branchonthepark.co.uk julia@branchonthepark.co.uk The jewellery is available to buy from our online shop: www.blossomingbranch.co.uk Wednesday to Saturday: 10am - 6pm Sunday: 11am - 5pm

11/02/2015 11:29 11/02/2015 10:44

FASHION / TRENDS BLOOM

LIBERTY FOR LIBRETTO

Melkmeisje by Baruti 30ml parfum, £80; bloomperfume.co.uk

Small Susanna, £24; amara.com

PERRIER-JOUËT EMMA GREENHILL

BEDFORD SPA

Matchmaker silk scarf; emmagreenhill.com

Bury Road, Newmarket, Suffolk, CB8 7BX; bedfordlodgehotelspa.com

Belle Epoque Rose 2004, £185; ocado.com

MIMI BERRY

Frank leather shoulder bag, £265; johnleewis.com

SUBLIME

Mothers’ Day Gifts; 020 7253 1112

NOBLE MACMILLAN

Classic travel wallet, £250; noblemacmillan.com

ACQUA DI PARMA

GEISHA DESIGNS

Rose buds candle, £80; harrods.com

Printed silk maxi, £188; anthropologie.eu

MERCHANT ARCHIVE

Brass pineapples, from £145; merchantarchive.com

CHARBONNEL ET WALKER

Dark sea salt caramel truffles, £15; charbonnel.co.uk

BEATITUDE

Joy bath oil, £24; beatitudeproducts.com

MOTHER DEAREST Our pick of the best gifts to delight and treat your mum - she derserves it By rose noel

RICHARD BRENDON

Tea set, from £135; avenue32.com

ASPREY

Daisy heritage ring, £7,500; asprey.com

33 C&A_March15_Mothers_Gift.indd 33

MARCH 2015

12/02/2015 12:57

DESIGN THE KITCHEN OF YOUR DESIGN THE KITCHEN OF YOUR

dreams dreams

Actual installation

Actual installation

471 Finchley Road Hampstead LONDON 471 NW3 Finchley 6HSRoad Hampstead LONDON Tel: 020 7431 7461 NW3 6HS www.hampstead-kitchens.com Tel: 020 7431 7461 www.hampstead-kitchens.com

Book a free appointment or a complimentary home today or Bookconsultation a free appointment a complimentary home consultation today

HAMPSTEAD KITCHENS.indd 1

09/02/2015 16:54

> TABLE TALK

p. 37

ARRIBA: RECIPES FROM MEXICO p.39 AFTERNOON TEA, REVIEWED

p.41

SPRING SOUP Helen and Lisa Tse share some scrumptious Dim Sum recipes with us on page 48, but you'll need to get the book to try making this refreshing boiled wonton soup at home.

Dim Sum: Small Bites Made Easy, ÂŁ16.99; waterstones.com

35 B&C_MARCH15_FOOD_OPENER.indd 35

MARCH 2015

12/02/2015 15:42

TRY NEW THINGS • MEET NEW PEOPLE • CONNECT WITH THE BOROUGH • SAVE MONEY

Contribute.Celebrate.Connect

SANG ‘NO WOMEN NO CRY’ IN THE REGGAE CHOIR...

ENJOYED A NORDIC WALKING TASTER SESSION... DRANK CHAMPAGNE AT THE TOP OF THE OXO TOWER... TRIED SCUBA DIVING... FELT LIKE ROBIN HOOD AT AN ARCHERY CLASS… 20% OFF MY NEW SPECS AT THE OPTICIANS... GOT A GREAT DEAL ON A NEW HAIR-DO… FOUND FIVE NEW RESTAURANTS I DIDN’T KNOW ABOUT SAVING MONEY AT ALL OF THEM… WHAT HAVE YOU DONE RECENTLY?

LAUNCHING OUR PRACTICAL SERVICES, OFFERING HELP WITH ODD JOBS, AFFORDABLE RATES AND TRUSTED PROVIDERS.

JOIN OURCAMDEN IN 2015 FOR ONLY £3 A MONTH! For more information: Tel: 020 3488 0020 Email: members@ourcamden.org www.ourcamden.org

OUR CAMDEN_MARCH_V4.indd 1

11/02/2015 11:57

FOOD & DRINK / NOTES

RECIPE

HOT CROSS BUNS R e c i p e b y R oy L e v y of Gail’s Artisan Bakery INGREDIENTS The Buns: 20g fresh yeast • 1 tsp caster sugar • 400g plain flour • 0.5 tsp ground cinnamon • 0.5 tsp freshly ground nutmeg 1 tsp mixed spice • 200ml whole milk • 70g caster sugar • 1 large egg • 70g soft unsalted butter • 40g sultanas • 40g dry currants 40g dried unsweetened cranberries 70g mixed peel • 0.5 tsp fine sea salt Cross Topping: 200g plain flour • 230g icing sugar 2 tbsp olive oil • 3 tbsp milk Syrup: 300g caster sugar • 200g water • 1 whole nutmeg • 1 whole star anise 1 whole clove • 0.5 vanilla pod METHOD Making The Buns

01 In a large mixing bowl melt yeast with a tablespoon of whole milk and a teaspoon of caster sugar. 02 In a separate bowl, sieve the flour with the spices. 03 Add the spiced flour to the yeast. Keep adding the rest of the milk, the sugar and egg. 04 Begin to bind the mixture together using your hands, then add the butter a chunk at a time whilst kneading the dough. 05 Continue kneading until you get a smooth, shiny dough. 06 Add the salt and fruits and continue kneading.

07 Cover the bowl with a tea towel and leave at room temperature for 1.5 hours, until it doubles in size. 08 Divide into 20 pieces, roll into shape on a surface to create smooth buns. 09 Arrange on a baking tray lined with a baking paper.

Cover the tray with a clean tea towel and leave to rise. 10 When the buns are ready make an eggwash by whisking 1 whole egg, 1 egg yolk and a teaspoon of milk. Brush the buns and leave to dry out for 10 minutes. Brush again. 11 Pre heat the oven to 200°C. ◆

Making the X topping

01 Using a hand whisk, combine all ingredients into a smooth paste. 02 Fill a piping bag with the topping mixture, cut a small hole. 03 Pipe thin crosses on top of the buns on the tray and pop it into the oven. ◆

The syrup

01 Put all the syrup ingredients in a small saucepan and over a low heat bring to a boil. Once the sugar has dissolved, increase the heat and simmer until you have a syrupy consistency.

02 Remove from the heat and fish the spices out. 03 Once the buns are ready, brush them with the hot syrup. 04 Leave to cool for 15 minutes before serving. ◆

TABLE TALK Artisan chocolates, Marco Pierre White and hot cross buns - March is looking sweet…

HELL’S KITCHEN

SCRAP BOOK

Marco Pierre White o coincide with the relaunch of Marco T Pierre White’s famous cookbook White Heat, The Little Black Gallery in Chelsea will be exhibiting work of famed photographer, Bob Carlos Clarke, as a record of Pierre White. Runs from the 10th February through to the 10th March;

Kitchen Notebook elvision chef, Rachel Khoo has put her T mind and cookery skills to another cookery book called Kitchen Notebook.

The book is crammed full of recipes inspired by the vibrant food scene in London, from the markets of East to Brixton Village.

Available from Waterstones;

littleblackgallery.com

LOCO FOR COCOA

Fika Ditch the Dairy Milk selection box and customise your own chocolates this Mother’s Day. FIKA are focused on quality, aesthetic and originality, which means your choice is sure to impress.

fikanyc.com 

PRODUCT OF THE MONTH 

Keep to the no (or little) drink plan with these scrumptious non-alcoholic beverages and cordials from Suffolk-based fine pressed drinks brand, James White. jameswhite.co.uk

37 C&A_MAR15_Food_Notes.indd 37

rachelkhoo.com

MARCH 2015

12/02/2015 11:57

Now serving authentic Mexican BRUNCH on SUNDAYS BOHOMexica MEXICA.indd 2 Boho Sept12.indd 1

22/10/2012 18:39 14:26 23/08/2012

FOOD & DRINK / RECIPES

Arriba!

Recipes from Mexico’s foremost food writer, Margarita Carrillo Arronte P h o t o g r a p h y F i a M M a P i ac e n t i n i

MIXIOTES D E NOAL E S Y CA M AR ONE S

CACTUS PADDLE & SHRIMP PACKAGES R eg i on : C en tral Mexico & Gulf

Pre p ara ti on Ti m e : 2 0 m in u t e s C ook i ng Ti m e : 40 m in u t e s S e r v es : 6

TOSTA DA S DE JA IBA

CRAB TOSTADAS Re gio n : G u l f

P reparatio n time: 2 0 minu tes Co o kin g time: 1 5 minu tes S erves: 10–1 2 Ingredients • 4 tomatoes • 3 cloves garlic • 1 white onion • 2 bay leaves • pinch of dried oregano • 3 peppercorns • 4 tablespoons corn oil • 3 ½ tablespoons capers, rinsed and chopped • 1 cup (3. oz/100 g) green olives, chopped • 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro (coriander) • 1 lb 10 oz/750 g crabmeat • 1 bag tostadas (14 oz/400 g) or 20–24 small Corn Tortillas (page 36), fried or dry-roasted until they are crispy

For the S a u c e • 1 ¼ cup (10. oz/300 g) mayonnaise • 4–6 smoked chipotle chiles in adobo

To G ar ni s h • lettuce, finely chopped ripe avocado, peeled, pitted, and diced Red Onion Escabeche M e t h od 01 Put the tomatoes, garlic, onion, bay leaves, oregano, and peppercorns in a food processor and process until smooth and strain into a bowl. Heat the oil over medium heat. Add the tomato mixture and cook for 10 minutes over low-medium heat. Add the capers, olives, cilantro (coriander), and crabmeat, mix then season. Remove from the heat and set aside.

02 For the sauce, put the mayonnaise and chipotle chiles in a food processor and process.

Put in a serving bowl and set aside. 03 Spread the sauce over the tostada shells and put the crab mixture on top. Garnish with some lettuce, avocado, and red onion escabeche.

Serve immediately. u Mexico: The Cookbook, published by Phaidon, £29.95; phaidon.com

39 C&A_MAR15_Recipe.indd 39

I n g r e di e n ts • 6 maguey leaves, soaked and cut into 10-inch (25-cm) squares (optional) • 1 tablespoon corn oil • 3 ½ oz/100 g chorizo, skinned and crumbled • 1 bay leaf • 2 sprigs thyme • 1 large white onion, finely chopped • 5 oz/150 g raw shrimp (prawns), peeled and deveined • 8 cactus paddles, cooked and cut into thin strips • 3 smoked chipotle chiles in adobo, chopped sea salt • Roast Tomatillo Salsa (page 510), to serve (optional) m e t h od 01 Spread out the leaf squares or cut six 10inch (25-cm) squares of parchment paper. Set aside. 02 Heat the oil in a saucepan. Add the chorizo and cook, stirring frequently, for 5–6 minutes. Add the bay leaf, thyme, and onion and saute, stirring frequently, for an additional 5–6 minutes until the chorizo is browned.

03 Add the shrimp (prawns) and stir. Then add the cactus paddles and chipotle chiles, and cook for anadditional 2–3 minutes. Season to taste with salt and remove the pan from the heat. Remove and discard the bay leaf.

04 Put 1 tablespoon of the mixture into the center of each wrapper. Fold in the sides of the wrappers to make packages and tie with kitchen string. Put the packages in the top of a steamer and cook for 20 minutes. Remove the pan from the heat and transfer the packages to a serving platter. Serve immediately with the salsa, if using. u

MARCH 2015

12/02/2015 15:44

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.

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www.marknicholasdesign.com

15/09/2014 16:32 01/06/2012 14:08 17/04/2013 13:49

FOOD & DRINK / REVIEW

BERNERS TAVERN London Edition Hotel W o r d s HELEN BARON

{ Afte r n oon Te a S pe c i al }

The Grill Room

nother outstanding, if not the, hotspot for afternoon A current munch in London, the old Berner’s Hotel has been refurbished and rebranded – it’s now the London Edition – and the main dining room is resplendent in ornate plasterwork and gilt-framed works of art.

The design is the work of Ian Schrager and the hip hotelier has returned to the building the razzle-dazzle we’ve a right to expect from a Fitzrovian address.

Chef Jason Atherton’s signature menu blends a satisfyingly hearty British bent with a forward-thinking spin on traditional afternoon tea. It gets top marks from us, because while everyone wants to maintain the tradition of high tea, let’s face facts: it’s an odd and extraneous meal that often equates to some light finger sandwiches and a gazillion rounds of cake. At Berner’s Tavern you’ll find a fine choice of teas – but you can choose your food from the

Absolutely takes tea in London’s most decadent surroundings Wo r d s h e l e n b a r o n

F

ollowing on from the success of its recent ‘Importance of Being Earnest’ afternoon tea, Hotel Café Royal has launched a new London High Society afternoon tea menu. Executive Chef Andrew Turner and Executive Pastry Chef Andrew Blas have created a somewhat experimental afternoon tea, comprising more innovative ingredients and flavour combinations than you might expect – including wild boar, crackling, pickled apple and mustard bun.

You’ll open proceedings with an amuse bouche (best accompanied by a glass of Veuve): a savoury muffin topped with a swirl of truffle cream cheese and a pipette of apple sauce (for an interesting extra kick).

There’s also Mary Rose prawn cocktail, goat’s cheese puffs and wine jelly, while the array of pastries includes a blackberry and apple regent, a seasonal ‘flower pot’ and a rather daring-sounding absinthe green fairy macaron, which is both Instagram-worthy and a tongue-tingling sticky mess.

Expect also the obligatory golden raisin scones; and if you can handle any more cake

after that sweet-fest, additional slices of several classics are available at the counter – including a gluten-free lemon drizzle or a traditional fruit cake. As for the teas, ditch the conventional English breakfast in favour of the Celestine, a soft black Chinese tea with sweet Madagascan vanilla pod and cornflowers. It sounds too pretty to pass up.

The venue for all this indulgence is the Oscar Wilde Bar, so named because the man himself dined here back in the day.

Housed in the former Grill Room, the place has been restored to its original Louis XVI glory – and the cornucopia of gilt and glass, the high ceilings and plush banquettes, the tinkling emanating from the hipster piano-player beside our table (along with the knowledge that you’re in a room of historical significance) makes this one of the best places in London for afternoon tea. u

● the grill room

Hotel Café Royal, 68 Regent Street, W1; hotelcaferoyal.com

41 C&A_MAR15_Food_Review.indd 41

main menu, the afternoon menu’s smaller savoury options or two separate menus of sweet treats. I opted for a truffled Ogleshield cheese and onion toastie with Branston pickle and fries, while my companion chose dressed Colchester crab with brown mayonnaise. Having avoided afternoon tea’s usual sugar-induced malaise, we couldn’t resist a dessert, finishing up with spiced Shipwreck Pie and an exquisite apple eclair with Calvados cream and salted caramel ice-cream (plus gold-leaf jelly). Divine, and all washed down with the best champagne. We left wanting to make this newly-discovered afternoon treat into a weekly ritual. ◆

● Ber n ers Tav ern

London Edition Hotel, 10 Berners Street, W1; bernerstavern.com

MARCH 2015

12/02/2015 12:03

Derek Nicol and Paul Walden for Flying Entertainment and Mel Howard for AIS Productions present

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13/02/2015 10:34

ABSOLUTELY / PROMOTION

We cater to ART

ENTHUSIASTS, FIRST time buyers & SERIOUS COLLECTORS

ART FOR U Cutting-edge art, celebrity visitors and prime position, The Unit London has it all

C

ovent Garden's critically-acclaimed contemporary art gallery, The Unit London, is making big waves in the UK art scene. Founded in 2013 by two young entrepreneurs from West London, this bold gallery showcases an enthralling roster of leading, cuttingedge artists from all over the world.

They are committed to showcasing art on the merit of the work alone, refusing to be pigeonholed into one art category or another. The result

is that the work on display at any one time could range from a piece of street art, to an impressionist painting or a bronze gilded statue. It is a commitment that champions talent and ability above anything else, and makes for a truly refreshing, inspiring and invigorating experience for it’s visitors.

Uniquely situated in Covent Garden’s Seven Dials shopping district, the gallery has a relaxed, inviting atmosphere, and is open to the public seven days a week. A regular hangout for the likes of Jude Law, Sir Bob Geldof, and Jesse Eisenberg, it is garnering a reputation as one of London’s leading contemporary art destinations,

43 C&A_MAR15_The_Unit.indd 43

with a broad range of works from affordable, emerging artists to museumlevel, investment acquisitions.

There truly is something for everyone, something which the founders believe is critically important: “The Unit London is not a gallery in the traditional sense; it's a brand that believes everyone should be able to experience and enjoy exciting art from all around the world. We cater to art enthusiasts, students, and first-time buyers who want a special artwork for their home, right up to the auction houses and the serious public and private collectors.”

Accessibility is a key part of the gallery’s ethos and the young founders see the value of platforms hitherto underused in the world of art-buying; a large percentage of buyers in 2013 bought their art online and most spent significantly (well into five figures) – a trend that seems unlikely to diminish in our techobsessed culture.

The Unit London’s impressive online presence epitomises what the gallery is all about: art that moves and inspires, for everyone. Keep up to date with The Unit London by following their Instagram feed @theunitlondon 9 Earlham Street, WC2H 9LL, 07946 221476 theunitldn.com

MARCH 2015

12/02/2015 15:59

THE NEW KIDS BAG WITH TABLET!

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15/10/2014 10:34

> KIDS CONFIDENTIAL

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MOTHER TO MOTHER: JUSTINE ROBERTS SHARES HER THOUGHTS

p. 49

SECRET GARDEN Childrenswear brand Elfie has unveiled its new SS15 collection. The lookbook is shot in a verdant summer garden and the collection is awash with florals and frills. elfielondon.com

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MARCH 2015

12/02/2015 15:45

KIDS & EDUCATION / SCHOOL TALK

Mother to Mother Mumsnet founder Justine Roberts on babies, business and power politics Wo r d s H e l e n B a r o n

HELEN BARON: At what point did Mumsnet become successful?

JUSTINE ROBERTS: It depends what you mean by successful – traction with readers was quite instant but we couldn’t pay anyone for the first six years.

HB: Did you always intend for the organisation to be politically active?

JR: I think it was a natural progression for us to support the discussions that our users were having. Politicians realised that we are representative of a large voice in society and that’s it worth listening to what we’ve got to say. It’s been satisfying to be able to provide information on issues like miscarriage care. Look at the Gordon Brown webchat [Gordon Brown answered Mumsnetters’ questions while still Prime Minister, in 2009] – if we can bend his ear then that’s a great thing.

HB: Several high profile women – including Facebook’s Sheryl Sandberg and Arianna Huffington – have recently published books touching on women’s dual roles at home and in the workplace.

Which mums inspire you?

JR: I think there are lots of famous women out there, like the Sheryl Sandbergs of this world, who are incredibly admirable, but I get inspiration from the mums’ stories on Mumsnet, ordinary women battling against great odds and difficulties to make decent lives for their families. You can talk about role models – and I include myself in this – but often they’ve had every advantage going. What’s truly inspiring is the women who go out of their way to help each other, a woman with a child who needs additional or round-the-clock care and still manages to be cheerful and to offer help and advice to others. Most of the women that the general public see

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effect change in their personal decisions… but on a wider level, in terms of the pay gap and the issue of maternity leave, there is still a long way to go for women to be truly equal in the workplace.

POLITICIANS REALISED that we are REPRESENTATIVE of a LARGE voice in SOCIETY as role models have had an awful lot of back-up; it’s the woman who struggles on her own, with no money or no support and plenty of demands on her time because of family circumstances – it’s cheesy to say but they’re the ones who should be celebrated.

HB: The digital generation has ‘revived’ feminism, but what does this translate to for women in real terms? What has it meant for pregnant women and mothers – and what improvements can be made?

JR: I think digital has made great strides in getting people talking, highlighting certain issues and giving women the confidence to

HB: Do you think women prefer to set up ‘mummy’ businesses rather than returning to their old careers because they tend to provide more understanding and flexible working environments?

JR: Yes, I know of women who have had to put their families on hold and almost pretend they didn’t exist in order to get to the top. Certainly for me, flexibility is the key thing when talking about a familyfriendly employer – it means not having to do unnecessary hours that mean women can’t see their children, it means being able to have some time off to see the school play. There’s enough pressure when you’re working – having a family is such a juggling act – that an understanding employer is what everyone really needs and if women don’t have that, they’ll drop out [of the working world] altogether.

HB: Why did you set up Gransnet?

JR: I think it was this idea that a collection of people didn’t have a noticeable collective voice. There was an opportunity for that older generation of women to get together and help each other.

HB: What do you do when you’re not doing Mumsnet things or just ‘being a mum’?

JR: That’s a hard one. I’m a football fan and support Liverpool, so I love going to matches... but to be honest there’s no real gap any more between work and not work, there’s not much time left after work and family and seeing friends. Does that sound sad? u

mumsnet.com

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KIDS & EDUCATION / NOTES LONE RANGER

TRIED & TESTED

Billy Bandit

BABY BJORN

Cool and quirky, Billy Bandit is designed for boys aged 2-12 years old. With playful prints and fun accessories like trucker caps and cartoonish hi-tops, this brilliant first collection is inspired by cowboys and indians. childsplayclothing.co.uk

by HELEN BARON

SMALL TALK Cowboy-inspired clothing, treetop slumber and super cute booties from Monkey & Mole

FRESH AS A DAISY La Coqueta

You’ll find hues of blue, delicate posy prints, nautical stripes on natural linen fabric, pretty bows and summer brights among La Coqueta’s refreshing new SS15 collection.

Perfect for picnics and spring days spent outdoors, the pieces encapsulate the season’s vernal charm to a tee. 5 Heath Street, NW3; lacoquetakids.com

HIGH LIFE

LITTLE BOOTS

Make bedtimes an adventure for wayward sleepers with the new Christopher Treehouse cabin bed from online children’s bed boutique Noa & Nani. Stylish and practical. £399; noaandnani.co.uk

These adorable teepee-printed moccasins take baby shoes to a whole new level. Designed by those at Monkey & Mole they’re handdrawn and hand-sewn wonders. £37.50; monkeyandmole.com

Noa & Nani

Monkey & Mole

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ho would’ve thought a baby W carrying could be so fraught with anxiety? Just Googling ‘baby carrier review ’ reveals a multitude of (apparently) catastrophic consequences that can come from choosing the ‘wrong’ equipment. Of course, the Internet is not an accurate guide to anything, so best to do your own research. In the course of mine I found the Baby Bjorn Carrier We, a new design from an old brand that hugs baby close in the most endearing chimp-like fashion, supporting both the head and neck.

Thankfully your back is also supported with padded waist and shoulder supports. Top marks on every count, and judging by the reviews online even the Internet agrees.  £84.95; babybjorn.co.uk

MARCH 2015

12/02/2015 12:37

R SP

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20

15 IS LIN GTON

WI L L BE K N OW N A S . . .

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S HO PPIN G

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DIN IN G

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EN TERTAIN MEN T

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ANGELCENTRAL.CO.UK

ABBEY ROAD FRAMING 020 7328 6915

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

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27/01/2015 16:32

13/02/2015 10:36

ABSOLUTELY / PROMOTION

We can design a MAN’S FOOTWEAR to increase his HEIGHT

UP TO SIX INCHES!

STEP UP

Want to design your own footwear? Look no further than Tony Andrews...

Tell Absolutely about the history of your company?

Tony Andrews has been making footwear for 56 years – a skill passed down from his father. He is dedicated and passionate about creating footwear. Designed to look both attractive and stylish, each pair he makes is corrective, supportive and tailored to each customer’s needs.

Tony has a staff of 12 and can make footwear for any occasion, in recordtiming.

What materials do you use?

Tony has a vast selection of materials in many colours and prints. He also uses animal skins – crocodile, snake, stingray, ostrich – which are mainly sourced from Italy.

How does the process work?

Here, we measure each customer’s feet, take photographs of them and then make impressions. Orthotics can be made if needed. Then, the client picks a style – or creates a new one.

What are your most popular styles – for women and men?

For women, a slip-on court shoe. For men, an Oxford full brogue. We can design a man’s footwear to increase his height up to six inches!

What do you like about your location on New Cavendish Street?

It’s busy and very trendy.

What have you got coming up for 2015?

We have just received 20,000 exciting skins – leather and suede in thousands of colours and prints. We also have a new range of fashionable lasts arriving; these make the shape of the shoe and therefore many new designs will be available. 

What is the most common foot complaint you come across?

It’s the one where customers have one foot bigger than the other. They find it difficult to source readymade shoes that fit. One shoe is generally too tight whilst the other is too loose.

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Can you tell us about your celebrity clients. Are celebrity endorsements important to you?

Kathleen Turner is a fan of our work.

And other celebrities too, which we’re afraid we can’t talk about. Celebrity endorsements are important to any business, and that applies to us too!

12 New Cavendish Street, W1G, 020 7486 4664; specialfootwear.co.uk

MARCH 2015

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> CRETAN MAGIC

p. 52

UK GETAWAY: HOTEL DU VIN, CAMBRIDGE

p. 56

ISLAND LIFE Set out this summer for a Greek holiday you won't soon forget at Crete’s luxury destination, Daios Cove. Think beautiful beaches, brilliant boat trips and food you won’t soon forget. daioscovecrete.com

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MARCH 2015

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LUXURY

CRETAN MAGIC Discover the delights of Daios Cove, the jewel of Crete, from sea adventures to spa treatments Wo r d s C at h e r i n e H a l e s

H

eading to Crete for a summer holiday is pretty much a nobrainer. The beaches are idyllic, the food is exceptional and the season stretches well into October, making it perfect for those who can’t get away in July and August. Perhaps the only thing I hadn’t previously associated with a holiday in Crete was luxury. Daios Cove proved me wrong. I arrived to a glass of champagne in the hotel’s incredibly striking entrance, whose glass doors open onto an panoramic view of the sea and the whole resort.

The hotel buildings are spread out over the whole of the man-made cove, with the main reception, bars, restaurants, pools (plural) and spa located in the airy, modern central building.

Rooms, suites and villas (of which there are 300 in total) sprawl out over the hillsides on either side, ensuring breathtaking ocean views

for most. I was staying in a Deluxe Sea View Room with an individual pool that I had to restrain myself from jumping straight into as a member of staff showed me around.

I would discover later that although beautifully situated, the pool was unheated and a little more bracing than I had imagined it would be – but was nonetheless perfect for dipping into when I overheated, sunbathing on my balcony. The room itself featured all the mod cons including a king size bed and cavernous bathroom all done up in a sophisticated, luxe style.

On my first afternoon there, I alternated between basking, lizard-like, on my private deck and moseying down to the saltwater infinity pool in the hotel proper.

At this point, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention that, due to sheer size of Daios Cove, many of the rooms are a significant walk from the main building. As a result, the resort offers a service of electric buggies that come to your door, pick you up and deliver you to reception.

The rooms, SUITES and

VILLAS SPRAWL

out over the

HILLSIDES

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TRAVEL / WANDERLUST

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MARCH 2015

12/02/2015 16:10

TRAVEL / WANDERLUST We set out

BRIGHT AND EARLY on a CATAMARAN

to explore

On my first evening I dined in one of the hotel’s three restaurants, Taverna.

The fare on offer there is traditional Greek cuisine and the à la carte menu did not disappoint, offering mainly fresh fish dishes. I started with tuna tartar, followed by paccheri pasta with lobster in a cherry tomato sauce. The ingredients were, without fail, incredibly fresh and flavoursome but it was the roasted sea bass fillet that really stole the show. By the time the cheesecake arrived I was barely able to take a bite and not even the lure of a cocktail could keep me from my enormous bed.

Daios Cove offers a range of activities (as extras) to keep guests entertained and the next day a group of us set out bright and early on a catamaran to explore

Spinalonga Island, a nearby tourist spot.

The journey itself was a real treat and as we laid out on the prow of the catamaran with the glittering azure sea rushing past, it was hard not to feel like glamorous extras in a music video. Tip: wear the highest SPF you can lay your hands on as the sunlight reflecting off both the water and the white boat will cook you like a lobster and the wind does a very good job of making you think it won’t. Spinalonga is a very small, very singular island that used to be part of the mainland until it was manually carved out of the coast in the 1500s and a fort built there to serve as a defence during the Venetian occupation.

In 1903, the island was repurposed as a leper colony and remained one until

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1957, making it the last leper colony in Europe. When we arrived, the dock was clogged with large cruise ships and it was with a certain amount of smugness that we rocked up and were decanted with minimum fuss. The island itself is fascinating and incredibly well-preserved, giving a chilling insight into life during those 60 years and a walk all the way around takes roughly 45 minutes.

After stopping to leap off the catamaran into the sea and to eat a delicious meal of sashimi and fruit, we were returned to the hotel for spa treatments and my 55-minute massage left me totally relaxed. My meal that evening was at Pangea, Daios Cove’s international buffet-style restaurant.

Again, it was the seafood that emerged as the star of the show; I could have eaten the sauteed calamari with marjoram pesto for every meal and the grilled

octopus carpaccio was swoon-worthy.

This particular dinner was served with lashings of local tipple raki, confirming in my mind that, no, I do not like raki.

Despite the state-of-the art gym and incredible fitness classes offered by the hotel, my interest was instantly piqued by the watersports I had spied one afternoon from the beach, so the next day, instead of heading to a pilates class, I made my way down to the water in the amazing glass funicular that connects the different levels of the hotel. Within minutes I was clinging to an inflatable sofa being dragged behind a speedboat at great velocity, shrieking with laughter.

After being dumped in the sea several times and informed that, ‘You are hardcore,’ by an incredibly tanned, blonde beach boy named Sven, I retired to the beach to catch a few last rays.

Apart from the catamaran trip and an excursion to the nearby charming village of Kritsa, I stuck close to the hotel because, frankly, Daios Cove has everything you could want.  Sovereign Luxury Travel (sovereign.com; 01293 731566 ) is offering 7 nights in a Deluxe Sea View Room from £1299 per person. The price includes a saving of £684 (per couple), a complimentary upgrade to half board, return flights from London Gatwick with British Airways, UK airport lounge access, private return resort transfers based on departures on 22 September 2015

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The Tile Box

40 Offord Road, Islington N1 1EB 020 7700 1444 www.thetilebox.co.uk

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TRAVEL / UK GETAWAY

THE SITE

I

n a sensitively-reclaimed old University building, the Hotel du Vin in Cambridge has managed to meld the comfort and decadence of a 21st century hotel with the old-world charm of this ancient city. One of Cambridge’s most central hotels, you feel the atmosphere of dusty libraries and lacrosse pitches, candlelit chapels and punting on the Cam all around you. Turn right out of the hotel and you’ll be at King’s College Chapel in under 5 minutes and at the trove of artistic delights that is the Fitzwilliam Museum in less than 3. The Hotel du Vin makes you feel like you are a part of the life of the city, however brief your stay. 

THE ROOM

W

e had a spacious room on the lower ground floor.

There was plenty of space for two put-up beds for the children, and an enormous bathroom with walk-in monsoon shower and rolltop bath. The finishing touches were all present: luxurious bedding, robes and Miller Harris toiletries. It was also, despite its location, blissfully quiet. 

HOTEL DU VIN Cambridge

ACTIVITIES

L

Wo r d s A r a b e l l a P r e s t o n

ess than an hour from London on the train, Cambridge is ideal for a short city break. We were blessed with winter sunshine on our visit, and the spires and turrets set against an azure sky were breathtaking.

Cambridge is a walking city: we followed our noses up Trumpington Street, into the alleys of the University colleges, took our children on a whistlestop tour of the Fitzwilliam Museum, visited a choral service at Corpus Christi, and the next morning we were on the train back to London feeling a little bit smug at our parenting/city break skills. 

THE BAR & BISTRO

I

n the old cellars of the building the bar occupies every nook and cranny, with cosy sofas and candle-light abounding.

We tried their Marmalade Martini which was truly delicious. Afterwards we dined at the Bistro which was buzzing with both local diners and guests. The fare is perfectly executed French bistro cuisine. The children ate moules frites and my husband a beautifully cooked steak. 

THE DAMAGE A t w o - n ight we e k e nd stay at Hotel du Vin c osts f r om £ 4 60 ; book online at hotelduvin.com

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56 12/02/2015 11:12

Bespoke Fitted Wardrobes and Dressing Rooms Sliding Doors, Hinged Doors and Walk-ins

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wharfside.london 30/01/2015 10:28 28/01/2015 15:11

> INTERIOR INSPIRATIONS

p. 60

MARBLE MARVELS: ADD A LITTLE DRAMA

p.65

UNSEEN LONDON

p. 69

ALISON AT HOME All that glitters is not gold. But it certainly might be brass. The glamourous material is back in vogue, with an especially stylish outing seen in Alison at Home’s new Criterion collection. The brand’s ‘Hemingway’ coffee table lends a ladylike grace to any room. alisonathome.com

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MARCH 2015

12/02/2015 16:08

10 of the best

GREEK BLUE HOMEWARES

True blues, lighting trends and Italian decor take centre stage

01

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

KOSTA BODA

Cool Moon Votive Candle, £50; scandinavianshop.co.uk 03

HOUSE OF FRASER

02

Blue Ombre Vases, £30; houseoffraser.co.uk

AMARA

Dash & Albert - Chevron Denim White Rug , £191; amara.com 04

ALEXANDRA D FOSTER

Marrakech Cushion, £195; luxdeco.com

05

With Poise Anglepoise

The classic Anglepoise lamp has spawned a collection of similarly classic lighting, including these simple but stylish pendant lamps. Heritage-inspired colours, woven cable and authentic brass details create a new aesthetic for this iconic brand, while table, wall and pendant options introduce greater versatility. anglepoise.com

MR AND MRS SMITH Parrot Cay by Como; mrandmrssmith.com

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HOMES & INTERIORS / NOTES 06

TAPPING IN

JOHN LEWIS

Lexington

Fusion ikat Embroidered cushion, £15; johnlewis.com

There are few luxuries in life equal to really good linen and Lexington’s SS15 collection has it covered. From fluffy towels in muted tones to cosy bedspreads in chic prints, these rich fabrics add the perfect finishing touch to bathroom and bedroom. lexingtoncompany.com

OLVER BONAS

Blue Ombre Stripe Pouffe, £32; oliverbonas.com

PLATE UP Amara

Iconic decorative arts company, Fornasetti present a range of homewares featuring their distinctive designs.

We particularly love the Tema e Variazioni wall plate, which bears the face of Piero Fornasetti’s muse Lina Cavalieri. £125; amara.com

08

07

GIFT LIBRARY Bubble Jug, £79; gift-library.com

editor’s

PICK must

09

HAVE JARDIN DES PLANTES

Butter Dish, £20; jardindesplantes.net

GUIDING LIGHT India Jane

As the weather improves, the temptation to take to the terrace in the evenings increases and what better way to light your al fresco dining than with this stunning 19th century Prince Regent lantern from India Jane? £175; therubytreecollection.com

TAKE A LOAD OFF Multiyork

High street staple Monsoon have collaborated with interiors company Multiyork to present a capsule collection of handpicked fabrics from the store's design archives. Think vibrant paisleys and nature-inspired patterns. multiyork.co.uk

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10

THE RUBY TREE

Petal Lapis Lazuli Bowl, POA; therubytreecollection.com

MARCH 2015

12/02/2015 12:16

LUXAFLEX.indd 2

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10/02/2015 10:20

DESIGN PROPOSALS

INTERIORS

PLANNING CONSENTS

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BUILDER SELECTION

PROJECT MANAGEMENT

AFTER CARE

Baby, it’s cold outside

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HOMES & INTERIORS / PRODUCTS EARNEST STUDIO & DANA CANNAM DESIGN,

‘All of a Piece’ tableware, £320 each; all-of-a-piece.com

ISABELLE STANISLAS

‘So-Cross’ chair, POA; so-an.fr

TERENCE WOODGATE

‘Solid light’, £197; terencewoodgate.com

EERO SAARINEN, FOR KNOLL

‘Saarinen’ round table, £3,350; knoll.com

JAMES IRVINE, FOR MARSOTTO EDIZIONI Connoisseur 32, POA; marsotto-edizioni.com

GAMFRATESI, FOR GUBI

‘TS’ table, £345; gubi.dk

LEE BROOM

‘On the rock’ glassware, POA; leebroom.com

APARENTMENT

ANNA FABRIZI ‘Connecting Dots’ coat hooks, £80; maffe.it

MARBLE MARVELS Keep things fresh this year with all things marble

'Marblelous' stairs, POA; aparentment.com

SEAN WOOLSEY

Filetto Rosso Marble & Tri-Mod Base Table, $900; seanwoolsey.com

By Jessica klingelfuss

SIMON LEGALD, FOR NORMANN COPENHAGEN,

‘Craft’ salt and pepper mills in black/white marble, £64; normann-copenhagen.com

E. BARBER & J. OSGERBY,

The Bottle Table, POA; cappellini.it

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MARCH 2015

12/02/2015 12:25

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EXTRACT

Behind Closed Doors Author Mark Daly and photographer Peter Dazeley discover Midland Bank in Unseen London W o r d s M a r k D a ly

M

idland Bank was once the largest deposit bank in the world, and its head office in Poultry, just a few steps from the Bank of England in the City, was a purposeful palace of finance in a prime location. The architect was the venerated Edwin Lutyens, working with John Gotch and Charles Saunders. Lutyens was responsible for the imposing faรงade and many of the interior spaces. The most impressive of these is the enormous banking hall laid out in the shape of a cross, lined with classical columns of green African Verdite, most of which are square in section. Contrasting white marble covers the walls, and teak provides the surfaces of the counters. The lofty aisles

intersect over a light well that illuminates the lower floors. When it was first opened, some said the design resembled a booking hall in a railway terminus, but the sense of solidity and prosperity was palpable.

When Lutyens was commissioned to design the bank in 1924, he had come a long way from drawing vernacular English cottages designed to nestle perfectly in the Surrey countryside. A link with those days was his collaborator Gertrude Jekyll, garden designer, who was related to the Midland chairman Reginald McKenna, and who seems to have forged a connection between them. In any case, Lutyens was by then famous and well into his grand period, and Midland Bank wanted prestige and branding.

Gotch and Saunders, the other

LUTYENS

was by then FAMOUS and well into HIS GRAND PERIOD

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HOMES & INTERIORS / BEHIND THE SCENES

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MARCH 2015

13/02/2015 10:33

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HOMES & INTERIORS / BEHIND THE SCENES

architects engaged, designed over 140 branches for the Midland after the First World War. Between them, the result at the headquarters building was an unmistakably modern bank with a strong corporate identity. The upper-floor offices for the chairman and directors, the boardroom, staircases and even some of the furniture has been attributed to Lutyens. But a report on the building by the property company selling it in 2009 said that the first to third floors had no elements by Lutyens, a fact which may make it easier to develop those areas for future use.

One of influences on the exterior was the fact that Poultry is comparatively narrow, making it hard to obtain a good view of the bank from street level.

The hotel is projected to be ‘SIX STAR’, which is at least a TRIBUTE to the GRANDNESS of the original

Lutyens designed a small degree of setback, storey by storey, and reduced the depth of the Portland stone courses layer by layer upwards. The optical result is to increase the impression of height, of a tall building receding into the sky.

For the safe deposit area on the lower ground floor he designed another grand space, and the Chatsworth Safe Company manufactured a state-of-theart 25-ton circular strongroom door, finely balanced on precision hinges. It was installed after first being shown at Wembley’s British Empire Exhibition in 1924 as a modern wonder.

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Built in stages between 1925 and 1939, the bank properly belongs to the twilight era of British global influence and power. Midland Bank had been founded in Birmingham in 1836, and had been shrewdly developed, gaining a place in the capital by acquisition of two London banks in the 1890s. After the Second World War, Midland took its place as one of the big four British clearing banks, and the head office was maintained and expanded. By 1992 the Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation (HSBC) had fully absorbed Midland, and banking came to end in the building when HSBC sold it off in 2005. After several onward sales and false starts over the next eight years, 27–35 Poultry stands poised for transformation into a hotel, with 250-plus rooms and suites, and a planned opening date of 2017. The rating for the hotel is projected to be ‘six star’, which is at least a tribute to the grandness of the original. u Unseen London, £30; waterstones.com

MARCH 2015

13/02/2015 10:33

PL.indd 1

28/01/2015 12:43

FIND

THE

HOME

YOU D E S E RVE

PL.indd 2

28/01/2015 12:43

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

HELP WITH THE LEGAL DETAIL WHEN YOU WANT TO EXTEND YOUR LEASE OR BUY YOUR FREEHOLD

Hema

Partner, Enfranchisement and Commercial Property

"Efficient, thorough, and always a pleasure to tal to. Hema was particularly good at providing reassurance and clarity."

"I always felt that with Hema we were in really safe hands."

PROPERTY LAW SERVICE

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

pper treet, Islington, ondon 020 7354 3000 property@colmancoyle.com

www.colmancoyle.com

forward thin ing straight tal ing COLEMAN COYLE.indd 2

1984 - 2014

anniversary

Celebrating 30 YEARS in business | 1984 - 2014

10/03/2014 11:44

Property Absolutely

March 2 015

> IN THEIR OWN WORDS p. 82 PROPERTY NEWS p. 76 NIGEL LEWIS p. 87

Middleton Road, E8

ÂŁ1,250,000 Freehold

This beautiful semi-detached Victorian Freehold house is located on a popular street close to London Fields and Dalston. Oozing with character and charm this period house has been recently refurbished and is laid out over two floors offering c. 1300 sqft worth of accommodation.

020 7241 4111

Currell, Hackney; currell.com

73 PROPERTY FRONT COVER.indd 1

MARCH 2015

12/02/2015 16:56

currell.com

Lauriston Road, E9 ÂŁ1,800,000 Freehold Immaculate interiors Located in picturesque Victoria Park village is this three storey, semi-detached, four bedroom house packed with period features. Situated perfectly for quick access to those commuting to Canary Wharf, The City and The West End. EPC Rating: E

Usher Road, E9 ÂŁ585,000 Leasehold Contemporary conversion Set on the popular Roman Road close to the open spaces of Victoria Park and the rejuvenated Olympic Park, is this three double bedroom maisonette. Local bus routes offer direct, easy access to the City and Shoreditch. EPC Rating: E

Victoria Park 020 3222 5555 victoriapark@currell.com

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currell.com

Middleton Road, E8 ÂŁ1,250,000 Freehold Opportunity for extension A beautiful three bedroom semi-detached Victorian house, with planning permission for a side extension already in place. Situated close to London Fields and Dalston, Liverpool Street station is within easy access. EPC Rating: E

Lavender Grove, E8 ÂŁ1,295,000 Leasehold Lovely family home Located on one of the most sought after residential streets in London Fields, is this charming three bedroom mid-terrace, Victorian house, with the potential for extension. Liverpool Street station is approximately 10 minutes away. EPC Rating: D

Hackney 020 7241 4111 hackney@currell.com

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Property News

Execution Dock House, E1W

A

spectacular riverside apartment of 2,704 sq ft in this unique listed warehouse, retaining many features including vaulted ceilings and exposed. The accommodation comprises large open-plan reception room with riverside balcony, fully fitted kitchen, large master bedroom leading to a luxury en

suite bathroom, second double bedroom and separate bathroom. The apartment offers further accommodation by way of a lower floor with an open space for multiple uses. There is also fitted storage and lift access from the ground floor directly into the apartment, as well as secure underground parking.

Cluttons, Wapping, 020 7488 4858; cluttons.com

City & Country Brings East London Style To Essex

C

urrently the average price in the Shoreditch area sits at a hefty £832 psf, with average asking prices for a two bedroom flat £635,135. City & Country, however, has an attractive solution. A limited number of outstanding loft apartments are currently for sale at The Galleries; a stylish range of

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historic restoration properties located in the buildings of the former Grade II Listed Warley hospital, Brentwood. Here the average price is almost 52% less at £395 psf.

The Tudor-influenced Victorian red brick buildings were built in 1853 and have been expertly renovated by City & Country’s in-house team into stunning modern apartments. Prices start at £420,000.

City & Country, 01277 202 122; cityandcountry.co.uk

76 12/02/2015 16:58

PROPERTY | ROUND UP

The INSIDE SCOOP of NEWS in your area Berkeley Homes launches 250 City Road, EC1

B

erkeley Homes North East London are set to launched the first phase of 250 City Road in January. This is set to be the most talked-about London residential destination of 2015. Designed by one of the most innovative and acclaimed architectural practices of the decade, Foster + Partners, 250 City Road delivers the optimum place to live and work. Situated in the heart of one of London’s most vibrant areas and very close to the City and the capital’s tech and creative quarters, this landmark scheme lays the foundations for an enduring new community. Upon completion, the scheme will comprise 930 homes and world class amenities.

berkeleygroup.co.uk

PAUL BERG

Sales Manager at BlakeStanley Estate Agents, 020 8986 2743; www.blakestanley.co.uk

S

earching for the perfect property can be time consuming and there’s nothing more disappointing than phoning the agent to be told your dream home is no longer available. Now there’s a new player on the property search market in the form of the new portal, OnTheMarket.com. With a quick and easy search facility we think this site could become the number one online property search destination. But don’t just rely on the property search sites, whilst you’re in research mode it’s also worth looking at AllAgents.com to look at independent reviews of the estate agents you will be dealing with. Not that we’re boasting but we have more 5* reviews than any other agent in E8 so make sure we’re on your list of agents to call!

Chestertons, Islington, 020 7359 9777; chestertons.com

PRIME LOCATION.COM

Whitechapel will see the most significant residential benefit from the arrival of Crossrail

I

n new research JLL has identified that Whitechapel will benefit most significantly from Crossrail.

Other big residential winners include Woolwich, Ealing Broadway and West Drayton. This extensive study involves in-depth analysis of every Crossrail station and the surrounding area and the medium and long-term potential impact that the line will have on every station location.

In this research JLL has devised a unique scoring system which rates each Crossrail station on a number of criteria. The overall Crossrail impact score, which sees Whitechapel score the most highly, takes into account the regeneration and residential development taking place and which is likely to happen, as well as factors including the potential to develop and

CROSSRAIL HOUSING IMPACT MAXIMUM

19%

AVERAGE

8%

Crossrail house price growth outperformance 2014-2020

CROSSRAIL BIGGEST WINNERS WHITECHAPEL WOOLWICH EALING BROADWAY WEST DRAYTON

MAXIMUM

15%

AVERAGE

7%

Crossrail residential rental value growth outperformance 2014-2020

Source:JLL

price and rental growth forecasts. In terms of house price growth winners, Whitechapel is expected to outperform with prices rising by as much as 54 percent by 2020. jll.com

SUGGESTS

If you’re thinking of selling your home in 2015, make sure to choose an agent that advertises with us. One of the most important questions to ask any agent before appointing them is where they will market your property. With over a million visitors a day to our websites, generating an enquiry every second for sellers across the UK, most agents understand that getting maximum exposure for your property results in the best price being achieved.

Spotlight on E8 Average asking price - £663,980 / Average asking rent - £2,022 pcm / Average property value - £535,744

77 NEWS.indd 147

Data provided by MARCH 2015

12/02/2015 16:58

BlakeStanley

Cecilia Road, E8

£650 pw

A gorgeous split level, three bedroom maisonette to rent on the ground and first floor of this Victorian Conversion. The property consists of a large lounge through to a big kitchen, with doors leading onto a private terrace/garden. there is a bathroom with shower over bath, on the second floor there are three bedrooms, varying in size.

Available furnished or unfurnished 4th April. Admin fee: £120 in total, Reference fee: £60 each.

Part furnished

info@blakestanley.co.uk BLAKE_STANLEY.indd 1

11-13a Broadway Market, London Fields, London , E8 4PH 11/02/2015 11:03

www.blakestanley.co.uk

Southborough Road, E9

020 7254 7554

£1,800,000

BlakeStanley are pleased to introduce to the market this four bedroom period house on a desirable street of Victorian properties. Set over four floors, this terrace house comprises a spacious kitchen/diner leading onto a 50ft garden, a dual aspect reception room, four double bedrooms (one en suite) and a four piece bathroom suite. Other benefits include a separate WC on the basement level, a roof terrace and plenty of storage. The property also boasts a wealth of period features including bay sash windows with shutters, wood flooring and high ceilings.

Freehold

Amhurst Road, E8

info@blakestanley.co.uk BLAKE_STANLEY.indd 2

£525,000

Set on the ground floor of this period conversion BlakeStanley have the pleasure in offering to the market this two bedroom garden flat making this an ideal purchase for someone looking for their first home. Presented in good decorative order the property boasts a reception with sash windows, high ceilings and solid oak wood flooring. The kitchen has been recently fitted offering standard mod cons with access to sole use of a 35ft west facing mature garden. Other features include a modern three piece bathroom suite, original features and storage.

Share of Freehold

£460 pw

A brand newly refurbished Victorian conversion to rent. The property comprises of a large open plan kitchen and lounge with solid oak flooring, doors lead out to a lovely private garden. There are two double bedrooms, one with an ensuite shower room, and separate bathroom with shower over bath. The property benifits from being close to Hackney Downs Overland station. Available 4th February, unfurnished. Pets allowed.

Unfurnished

Glyn Road, E5

Acer Road, E8

£650 pw

A spacious and bright three bedroom house to rent on this quiet street just off Queensbridge Road, minutes from Dalston Junction Station. The property consists of a large open plan lounge and fully fitted kitchen with dishwasher, there are doors leading onto a garden. Upstairs there are three double bedrooms, one with ensuite shower room, there is a separate bathroom and also a third toilet downstairs. Excellent condition, plenty of storage, available around the 31st January, furnished or unfurnished.

Admin fee: £120 in total, Reference fee: £60 each.

Part Furnished

11-13a Broadway Market, London Fields, London , E8 4PH 11/02/2015 11:03

020 8985 0106

hackney@castles-estateagents.co.uk

www.castles-estateagents.co.uk

Hackney Sales & Lettings

Powerscroft Rd, E5 0PP

Amhurst Rd, E8 2AZ

• Period conversion • op loor lat • 1 o le edroom • p r location

• ewl re r is ed • 1st loor conversion • 2 Bedrooms • antastic location

£ 330,000 LEASEHOLD

£ 450,000 LEASEHOLD

Hacon Square, E8

Martello Street, E8 3QP

• t lis rd loor partment • 1 o le Bedroom • antastic Location • P ating / 1 - / 1

• Live/work residence • Open-plan work space • 1/2 Bedrooms • Private garden

£ 390,000 LEASEHOLD

£ 550,000 LEASEHOLD

44 Lower Clapton Road, London E5 0RN CASTLES_EAST.indd 1

13/01/2015 11:16

PROPERTY | AWARDS

The ESTAS awards THE ESTAS CEREMONY: 17TH APRIL 2015 AT THE HILTON, PARK LANE

SIMON BROWN

Founder of The ESTAS, Estate & Letting Agent Awards

T

high quality service so what better way to do that than using customer feedback.

We had no idea how the industry would react but we had a hunch it would be a success. One of the first people we ran the idea past was Phil Spencer. He was totally supportive and has presented The ESTAS every year since.” Now in their 13th year, The ESTAS Group have developed into more than a very prestigious awards event. They are a management information service, marketing tool and live client feedback hub for agents, mortgage brokers, conveyancers and suppliers to the industry.

Phil Spencer

he first thing I noticed about Simon Brown, Managing Director of The ESTAS Group was how passionate he is about customer service. “Most of us nowadays are used to having average or bad customer experiences, we all have them every day.

The frustrating thing is that when we do have a bad experience and want to complain, it’s normally such a long-winded process we give up because we’re too busy.

That means most companies never actually know they are giving sub-standard service.”

Brown is equally frustrated at the raw deal estate and letting agents get from the general public and media. “My wife Sarah used to work for a local agent and it wasn't until then I realised how hard a job it was.

There are so many different factors to every deal and there are many things that can happen that you’re not in control of that can break a chain down.”

Brown felt so strongly about Sarah’s experience that they both decided to launch a national award scheme which highlights agents giving excellent customer service.

“We decided straight away the best way to ‘judge’ agents was to ask clients to rate the service they received. We wanted to help change the general perception of agents and at the same time give firms the platform to promote their commitment to providing

Access to The ESTAS platform immediately gives each business a marketing pack with which to advertise, using posters, embed logos, press releases and tweet feedback to their followers through direct links.

Monthly service performance reports with live graphs measuring feedback in different service areas against regional competitors and national average and a winner’s marketing pack are all part of the ESTAS experience, helping firms to manage and grow their businesses. “Our clients use the ESTAS process both internally and externally to increase customer service levels, to manage and motivate teams and to brand their business as one that is happy to be measured by their customers.” Finally Brown adds “This year is going to be more competitive than ever and never more so than in London which is why we have linked up with the Absolutely Magazine Group. We want to spread the word to London agents what the benefits of taking part are and give them a marketing edge in 2015”.

theestas.com

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MARCH 2015

12/02/2015 17:01

IN THEIR OWN WORDS

Brett Sullings Head of Commercial Agency and Investment at Stirling Ackroyd, Shoreditch

I

Photography: rebecca noonan

never really had a specific plan when I was young, but I always looked up to my father, who was an entrepreneur with a variety of different businesses on the go at once, all largely focused overseas.

So if anything, I wanted to do something similar and work overseas. I grew up in Lagos, Nigeria and due to my father’s work my family moved around the world from Tashkent in Uzbekistan to Havana in Cuba.

My father even had drinks with Fidel himself!

When we moved back from Nigeria I was enrolled as a full time boarder at Blundell’s School in Devon. This is where I was introduced to rugby and by the time I got to university I was given the captaincy of our 1st XV team. At the University of Westminster I studied Urban Estate Management and Development and I graduated with first-class honours. Family is the main reason I got into property. It is an interest that grew on me over time spent with my uncle, a chartered surveyor, who gave me work experience when I was taking my GCSE’s. I worked as a runner for the commercial department in the Shoreditch office and after that I was hooked!

Subsequent to graduation I had made the decision that I wanted to work in a company where I could make a difference, complete my APC training, and work in an area where I thought a change would happen. Having written my dissertation on the commercial potential for growth in East London, it was a no brainer when Stirling Ackroyd offered me a position in their commercial agency team. I joined Stirling Ackroyd in 2005, which is when I moved to and really got to know Shoreditch.

Shoreditch has always been one of those more quirky areas, I never really thought I would fit in with my polo shirts and Chelsea

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boots. However, if anything, it made me a little bit different! But how things have changed since then! Shoreditch has now become a real social hub. There is always something new to do and someone different to meet, which is what I really like about the area.

My main client base comes from private landlords that invested locally many years ago and are now benefiting from the evolution of the City’s fringes turning it into the tech capital of London and England. In recent years I have established strong relationships with a number of private property companies that we have assisted to acquire, refurbish and let out large and small warehouse style offices that are in demand locally.

The local market has never been so strong commercially, with the average rent being in the £40’s per sq ft compared to only 3 or 4 years ago when we were still averaging rents in the £20’s to £30’s at a push. The local commercial market is seeing precedent levels achieved almost weekly with capital values in some instances surpassing that paid for residential properties on the same streets.

I can see the fringes achieving an average rent for grade A space in the £50’s per sq ft this year and am confident that £60 per sq ft in Shoreditch will be achieved and even surpassed by a few up and coming schemes in the next few months. I see the commercial market moving further East with rents already increasing in Haggerston, Dalston and Hackney Central, these are the areas we are focussing on with clients and assisting local landlords on over the coming year, not to mention a few other areas that I will keep a secret for now…

020 7749 3838; stirlingackroyd.com

82 12/02/2015 17:08

PROPERTY | PROFILE

83 ITOW.indd 3

MARCH 2015

12/02/2015 17:08

To celebrate opening in Shoreditch we’ll sell your property for FREE

020 7368 4458 marshandparsons.co.uk/sell-your-home-for-free

M&P.indd 1

13/02/2015 09:41

Boyd Street E1 ÂŁ899,995 A beautifully presented two-bedroom apartment situated within a converted sugar mill, boasting a recently re-fitted kitchen and bathrooms. Leasehold. EPC=C

Gowers Walk E1 ÂŁ625,000 A charming, lateral two-bedroom apartment situated within a sought-after warehouse benefitng from exposed brickwork, wooden floors and high ceilings. Leasehold. EPC=C

Shoredtich: 020 7613 2746 sales.sho@marshandparsons.co.uk

M&P.indd 2

13/02/2015 09:41

WE ARE DELIGHTED TO ANNOUNCE

THE JUDGING PANEL FOR THE ESTAS 2015...

40,000 CUSTOMERS

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For more information go to

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ESTAS.indd 1

05/01/2015 16:28

PROPERTY | NIGEL LEWIS

London's MOST POPULAR

Wo r d s N I G E L L E W I S

The floating trend: Back of the Moon, Taggs Island, TW12

F

loating homes are evidently popular among Londoners. Some 18,271 people have so far had a peek at this water borne property since it was listed in July last year – and it’s also this month’s most popular property on Zoopla.co.uk. Back of the Moon, which is for sale at £1.8m, is a recently completed 3,000 sq ft contemporary houseboat on Taggs Island, a slip of land on the Thames upstream from Hampton Court and reached via a humpback bridge. Like most of the 60 houseboats on the island, Back

of the Moon is moored to piles driven into the bank but unlike most, it comes with a large 125ft mooring and a landscaped half-acre garden behind it, making it one of the largest plots on Taggs Island. Back of the Moon has been completed externally but it now needs finishing inside and could be an “artist’s home, workshop and gallery or a five bedroom home”, says agent Mary Hodgson of Waterside Residential. She says the property includes street parking for five cars, two driveways, a garage/workshop, summerhouse, outbuildings and its own slipway. But the person who buys Back of the Moon will be getting more than just a floating home. Taggs Island has plenty more to offer including an interesting history, a very famous boat owner and a strong community feel. The island takes

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its name from Thomas Tagg who ran a boatyard on it during the 1870s and subsequently opened a hotel too. Then in 1902 Fred Karno, the theatrical impresario credited with nurturing the talents of Charlie Chaplin, bought the hotel along with the rest of the island.

But Taggs Island slowly slipped back into obscurity until the early 1970s when it was used by film director Stanley Kubrick to shoot scenes for his 1971 film A Clockwork Orange. But development of the island only began in earnest when, in 1983, it was bought by a group of houseboat owners and proper sewage, water services and moorings were introduced.

The decent services and idyllic position make the island popular with artists and musicians wanting to ‘get away from it all’ but be near London and that includes David Gilmour, guitarist and song writer with the band Pink Floyd. He owns the Edwardian houseboat built by Fred Karno and it is now Gilmour’s home studio. It is here that Pink Floyd’s most recent two albums The Division Bell and Endless River were recorded. But with such an extraordinary island come unusual aspects of life. The first is that mortgages for its houseboats are tricky to secure so most buyers make cash offers and, while the homes are freehold, the mooring and land are leasehold. Also, there are annual fees to be paid both to the Environment Agency for the mooring and to the island’s freeholders for its upkeep – but one of the island’s chores is also a pleasure. Some residents do their shopping by boat and chug up to Kingston to pop into Waitrose.

MARCH 2015

12/02/2015 17:03

PROPERTY | EXPERT ADVICE

D AV E Y S

HEMA ANAND

OF SPITALFIELDS

FROM COLMAN COYLE GIVES HER EXPERT ADVICE ON ALL YOUR LEGAL PROPERTY QUESTIONS We are a group of four leaseholders whose flats are contained in a converted building; there is a shop on the ground floor. We want to know more about the initial requirements we need to meet before we can serve an Enfranchisement Notice.

ARTILLERY LANE, E1 > 1 & 2 BEDS from £769,500

U

nder the Leasehold Reform, Housing & Urban Development Act 1993 leaseholders can, subject to meeting certain criteria, serve notice upon the Landlord of their building to forcefully acquire the freehold of the building.

This is known as an Enfranchisement Action. Firstly, you must check that the building qualifies for the purposes of an Enfranchisement Action. The building must contain at least two flats and at least two-thirds of the flats must be let to a qualifying tenant. A qualifying tenant is a leaseholder who owns a flat subject to a long lease. Generally, a long lease is a lease originally granted for a term greater than 21 years. (There are other types of long leases as well.) Thereafter, a minimum number of participating tenants is required to participate in an action. The minimum must equal half the total number of flats in the building. You have mentioned that there is a shop on the ground floor, therefore you will need to check that the non-residential part of the building is not greater than 25% of the internal floor area of the building.

A surveyor is best placed to advise you on this. There are a few exclusions that preclude a qualifying tenant from participating.

For example, if the tenant owns more than two flats in the building.

Certain buildings may be excluded: for example, if the building is a National Trust Property; there are also special rules that apply to certain landlords, for example properties where the freehold is owned by the Crown.

HACKNEY RD, E2 > PERIOD 4 BED £680 PW

RICHMOND, TW10 > AMAZING 6 BED £4.55m

A dynamic and vibrant agency, working for you...

Don’t miss this opportunity, we will agree a fee that ensures we get your business!

Contact property partner Hema Anand with no obligation on (0)20 7354 3000 or email hema.anand@colmancoyle.com

020 7871 9599 info@daveys.co

colmancoyle.com 80 Upper Street, Islington, N1 0NU

I www.daveys.co

65 Brick Lane, London E1 6QL *Subject to terms and conditions

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88 12/02/2015 17:06

Smart sellers sell smart.

Make sure your agent is on Zoopla.

V1 ZOOPLA A41Advert 210x297_2014 12 19.indd 2 ZOOPLA.indd

08/01/2015 28/01/2015 09:50 12:42

Stirling Ackroyd All around East London E £ ,000,000

£ 00,000

SHO E TCH SALES - OYLE U L N A stri in spacious ,0 s ft arehouse con ersion in the iconic oyle buildin ith pictures ue ie s of the e ents Canal. EPC pendin

SHO E TCH SALES - LEU E L S ST EET An impressi e 2 bedroom arehouse con ersion nestled on a peaceful side turnin in the heart of the hu ely popular pitalfields. EPC - C

E5

E5

£

5,000

£475,000

HACKNEY SALES - CLA ENCE OA A stunnin bedroom arden flat con erted from a former Victorian pub measurin in excess of ,700 s ft. EPC - E

HACKNEY SALES - MOUNT PLEASANT LANE A 2 bedroom duplex flat set on the top floor of this sympathetically restored Victorian residence located on this tree-lined residential street. EPC - C

BANKSIDE 020 7940 3888

SHOREDITCH 020 7749 3838

CLERKENWELL 020 7549 0606

HACKNEY 020 7749 3807

WEST END 020 7256 3244

IBIZA 0034 971 326 788

COMMERCIAL OFFICE ISTANBUL +90 (0)444 4493 020 7729 7763

StirlingAckroyd.com STIRLING_IBDPS.indd 1

10/02/2015 15:44

EC A £

5 pw

1 £

pw

SHOREDITCH LETTINGS - RA EY STREET Stunning 1 sq ft loft apartment in a former warehouse building within the heart of Shoredit h ust off reat Eastern Street. EPC - C

SHOREDITCH LETTINGS - WHIT ORE ROAD A spe ta ular 1 sq ft bedroom apartment forming part of this boutique residential development in De- eauvoir. EPC -

E8

E8

£4

pw

HACKNEY LETTINGS - ATKINS S ARE A brand new bedroom apartment situated on the west fa ing side of the e iting new Pembur Cir us development in a ne Central. EPC -

£415 pw

HACKNEY LETTINGS - SLEDGE TOWER A superb new 1 double bedroom apartment on the top floor of Sledge Tower forming part of the prestigious Dalston Square development. EPC - C

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

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