KENSINGTON JULY 2014 by ABSOLUTELY Magazines

ABSOLUTELY JULY 2014 £3.95

KENSINGTON

A FRESH S TART Summer's health and beauty fix

Natasha Corrett Atalanta Weller THE ULTIMATE ALKALINE DIET

SHOE DESIGNER OF THE FUTURE

Susie Rogers YOUR HORMONE DOCTOR

S T Y L I S H . I N T E L L I G E N T. E L E G A N T. A B S O L U T E LY COVERS July 2014.indd 2

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facebook.com/struttandparker twitter.com/struttandparker

struttandparker.com

Tor Gardens, Kensington, W8

An exceptional four bedroom stucco fronted family house, with a fabulous south-facing garden as well as having off-street parking.

ÂŁ7,850,000 Freehold

Kensington 020 7938 3666 Kensington@struttandparker.com JSA: Alex Stroud 07584 038 000

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Launceston Place, Kensington, W8

An exceptional and very special six bedroom family house, situated in this most prestigious and sought after street, in the De Vere Conservation Area.

Price Upon Application Freehold

Kensington 020 7938 3666 Kensington@struttandparker.com

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Local know-how. Better results. Askew Road

Battersea

Camden

Earls Court

Hammersmith

Little Venice

Notting Hill

Balham

Bishops Park

Chelsea

East Sheen

Holland Park

Marylebone

Pimlico & Westminster

Barnes

Brook Green

Clapham

Fulham

Kensington

North Kensington

South Kensington

Gloucester Walk W8 ÂŁ4,495,000 This charming house provides excellent living/entertaining space, beautifully high ceilings and is flooded with an abundance of natural light. Arranged over four floors the accommodation includes a large double reception room, a second reception room, dinning room and a separate kitchen. The bedroom accommodation boasts six bedrooms (one en suite) and two further bathrooms. Freehold. EPC=E. Sole Agents.

KENSINGTON: 020 7368 4450 sales.kns@marshandparsons.co.uk

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Join us on Facebook: facebook.com/marshandparsons

Visit our YouTube channel: youtube.com/user/marshandparsons

SALES

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

Lancaster Road W11 £2,400,000 Arranged over three floors of a substantial Notting Hill house, this beautiful five-bedroom property boasts generous proportions, superb ceiling heights and light filled rooms throughout. The property is presented in beautiful condition, whilst also retaining many original features, and a generous walled garden. Highlights include the tremendous extended kitchen/family room with direct garden access and a 32ft double aspect drawing room on the raised ground floor. Share of Freehold. EPC=E. Sole Agents.

NORTH KENSINGTON: 020 7313 8350 sales.nkn@marshandparsons.co.uk

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the SUMMER DESIGN SALE Our biggest ever summer sale is now on! Save up to 50% on all our ex-display and stock items in our biggest ever summer sale. Take advantage of our wide range of special sale offers available until 27th July, but hurry stock is limited.

BoConcept Notting Hill

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18 - 24 Westbourne Grove, London W2 5RH

020 7792 4111

www.boconcept.co.uk

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

S T U D I O

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

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contents J U LY 2 0 1 4

EDITOR’S LETTER

ABSOLUTELY LOVES Absolutely’s top ten this month

PROFILE Atalanta Weller, shoe designer

CU LT U R E 17

WHAT’S ON July’s diary

ALEX PRESTON How to write a historical novel: advice from the NW10-based writer

STYLE 31

FASHION NOTES Sartorial snippets

MOODBOARD Hayley Menzies, scarf designer

FASHION SHOOT Sophisticated neutrals

I N T ER IOR S 66

GOLDEN YEARS Inside Golborne Road's Goldfinger Factory

LONDON BRICK An unusual W2 house

F OOD & T R AV EL 86

EATING OUT Santo, W10

ACID HOUSE Natasha Corrett's diet for life

SPA GUIDE Our pick of the UK's finest

PROPERT Y 128

IN THEIR OWN WORDS

152

LUXURY LETTINGS

165

LIVING THE DREAM

ON THE COVER

COVER: Lickerish

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www.roth-jonqueres.com | contact@roth-jonqueres.com

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ABSOLUTELY | JULY 2014

Editor’s letter ummer requires a new level of body maintenance, so in the interests of research, our team has been primped and waxed, polished and plucked all over Notting Hill and Kensington. And so in this issue, we bring to you our verdicts on the many beauty treatments available, while seeking out advice from various experts on how to achieve that elusive state of wellbeing. Predictably, we have discovered lots about diet and

Pendle Harte Editor

sleep in the process. But thankfully for some, it's not all about health and beauty in this issue – we also have art and shoes, furniture and wine as well as a guide to researching your very own historical novel. Yes indeed. Enjoy July. PS: Stop press! A quick mention to Urban Meadow in Bayswater Road, whose Grab and Go menu is perfect for a light lunch. For more foodie recommendations, read on.

EMAIL: PENDLE@ZEST-MEDIA.COM FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @ABSOLUTELY_MAGS FACEBOOK ‘ABSOLUTELY NOTTING HILL’

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AN EXPERIENCE OF NORDIC TASTES IN THE HEART OF NOTTING HILL • EvEning and wEEkEnd mEals • light lunchEs • BBQ (with livE music) 5-7pm Fri-sat PHOTOGRAPHY BY: EMILIANO CAPOZOLI

THE MISSION IS SIMPLE: TO SERVE DELICIOUS, AFFORDABLE FOOD THAT GUESTS WILL WANT TO RETURN TO WEEK AFTER WEEK OPENING HOURS MON CLOSED | TUE - FRIDAY 12.00 AM - 12.00 PM | SAT 11.00 AM - 12.00 PM | SUN 11.00 AM - 17.00 PM 07445 261 778 | BOOKINGS@LISASPORTOBELLO.COM | LISASPORTOBELLO.COM

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ABSOLUTELY NOT TING HILL | KENSINGTON EDITOR Pendle Harte EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Catherine Hales EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Lindsay Baker, Pearl Boyd, Emma Harpin CONTRIBUTING BEAUTY EDITOR Arabella Preston SENIOR ADVERTISING ACCOUNT MANAGER Rochelle Streater ADVERTISING ACCOUNT MANAGER Hugo Hunter PROPERTY DIRECTOR Anna Hutton-Potts CENTRAL PROPERTY MANAGER Leah Day PROPERTY EDITOR Lucie Pearce ART DIRECTOR Ray Searle SENIOR DESIGNER Pawel Kuba PRODUCTION MANAGER Stewart Hyde MID WEIGHT DESIGNER Tahir Kapucu PROPERTY EDITORIAL DESIGNER Andrew Mavin DESIGNER Ekrem Yilmaz JUNIOR DESIGNER Rebecca Noonan COPY CONTROLLER Christine Mann FINANCE DIRECTOR Alexandra Hvid DIRECTORS Greg Hughes, Alexandra Hunter MANAGING DIRECTOR Sherif Shaltout For editorial enquiries please email: pendle@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.

Published by ZEST MEDIA PUBLICATIONS LTD, 213 WESTBOURNE STUDIOS, ACKLAM ROAD W10 5JJ WWW.ZEST-MEDIA.COM T: 020 7704 0588 F: 020 7900 3020 Zest Media Publications Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Zest Media Publications Ltd. take no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved.

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T H I N G S W E A B S O L U T E LY

TILTING VIOLET South-Kensingtonbased Rokos is an award-winning design studio whose products include this brilliant mouth-blown Gauge Vase, which wilts and tilts as the flower drinks water, and stands up when fully watered. £220, rokos.co.uk

POP ART AT HOME W10's Rodnik Band has teamed up with W11's made. com with this range of fabulous Pop Art-inspired interiors. Doesn't every sitting room need a shark-fin armchair? £449, made.com

HEART OF GLASS There's a stylish Art Deco feel to this Bizet table by Christopher Guy, with its hand-wrought base and circular tempered glass. £5,749 christopherguy.com

SOUND WORK The new audio range from Ted Baker includes these fabulous luxe headphones. £179, tedbaker.com

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GOLD STAR New fine jewellery brand Ralph Masri is stocked at Ledbury Road's Wolf and Badger and we are coveting this Arabesque Deco star necklace with rubies, £2,000, ralphmasri.com

ALL AT SEA A collaboration between Kensington interior designer Alexandra Foster and Italian artist Rosa Linda has resulted in these octopus-themed cushions, stocked at gothamnottinghill.com, £195

IN THE FRAME

Lauder and Rees in Paddington are stocking a large range of Lindberg frames (as worn by Brad Pitt) alongside a wide selection of other designer frames, and their eyecare service makes myopia feel like a club you're proud to join. 119 Praed Street, W2; 020 7262 2514

HEELS ON FIRE Animal print? Check. Wedge heel? Check. Charlotte Olympia's Alexa calf-hair sandals are just the thing. £395, matchesfashion.com

MATERIAL THINGS Kensington Park Road's Mufti has launched a new website,selling beautiful handmade furniture and home accessories. mufti.co.uk

LADY IN THE LAMP The new lamps at Jimmie Martin take the Kensington store's kitsch aesthetic to a whole new level. We are loving this Kapow Lady. £3,700, jimmiemartin.com

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Where Queen Anne’s most glamorous occasions were held... Kensington Palace’s elegant style and charm has attracted royal residents such as Queen Anne, Queen Victoria and Diana, Princess of Wales. By holding your event here, you are becoming part of its illustrious history.

• • • • •

Beautiful gardens Magnificent State Apartments Drinks receptions - up to 1000 Dinner and dance - up to 150 Indoor and outdoor spaces

Book your elegant occasion at Kensington Palace hrp.org.uk/hireavenue | 0844 482 1466 Historic Royal Palaces private events: Tower of London • Hampton Court Palace • Banqueting House • Kensington Palace

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ABSOLUTELY | A RTS & CULTUR E

D IA RY J U L Y

ILLUSTRATION AWARDS Until 2 July V&A

Five talented winners of the 2014 V&A Illustration Awards, who were presented with their prizes at the awards ceremony on 2 June, will now have the honour of seeing their winning entries displayed for a short time in the legendary Victoria and Albert Museum. The competition recognisest original artwork from the best illustrated book, book cover, editorial illustration and student illustrator of the year aand is judged by stellar panel of experts.

Cromwell Road, SW7; vam.ac.uk

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IN TRANSIT 18 - 27 July Various locations

t don'

MIS

ow in its eighth year, the InTransit Festival presents many wonderful interpretations of the theme 'dwelling in unity' - the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelseaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s official motto. Their experience includes Secret Cinema productions, as well as site-specific projects with The London Contemporary Orchestra and Silent Opera. The programme features new work from wellknown arts companies such as Cardboard Citizens and Hip-Hop Shakespeare, alongside emerging artists presenting bold and observant work in unusual settings across the borough. rbkc.gov.co.uk/intransit

THE TURN OF THE SCREW Opera Holland Park 1-12 July

OHP presents Benjamin Britten's The Turn of the Screw, a haunting opera based on Henry James' novel of the same name that centres around a governess and her two young charges at the eerie Bly House. This will be OHP's first foray into the opera of Britten and will feature performances from Ellie Laugharne, Brenden Gunnell, Anne Mason, Elin Pritchard and Robin Tritschler. As if this wasn't enough, the ghostly opera will be followed by a night tour into the dark heart of Holland Park. Spooky. Holland Park, W8; operahollandpark.com

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THE BUMFORTH MANOR COLLECTION

To 4 July 164 Westbourne Grove

say, old chum, those Victorians really were a rum lot! The Bumforth Manor Collection will reveal recently rediscovered pictures from the renowned Victorian eccentric and proto-surrealist Samuel Heracles Gascoigne-Simpson. Wacky generals riding rocking horses, top hat-wearing twins astride a ram and an antler-adorned gynocologist examining a patient are just some of the bizarre delights in store for visitors to the exhibition. But are they real? You'll just have to go and decide for yourself. 164 Westbourne Grove, W11 bumforthmanor.com

CLASSICALLY BRITISH 15 - 20 July Tabernacle Gallery

In celebration of Mark Elie Dance Foundation and the Portobello Dance School's 20th anniversary, an exhibition of videos and photographs of dancers of all backgrounds, races, shapes and sizes will be held as part of Black History Season, in addition to an auction to raise money for the Foundation.

TILT UP

Until 31 July C99 Art Project njoy a unique perspective without getting a crick in your neck at artist Aaron Baghetti's solo show this July. 'Inspired by a collective feeling of global alienation, the work aims to stimulate individuals to acquire details outside of their visual range, to raise their gaze towards futuristic perspectives.' After having enjoyed great success in Milan, the exhibition has made its way to London so don't miss its month long stay. 99 Chamberlayne Road, NW10

Powis Square, W11 tabernaclew11.com

CONNAUGHT VILLAGE FESTIVAL 25 June Connaught Village he community favourite is back for another year and will offer live music, fairground rides, street entertainment and a variety of food and craft stalls, plus the return of the much loved dog show. A brilliant family day out, this year's event will include a children's art competition and plenty of entertainment for the grown ups, too. 39 Connaught Street, W2 connaught-village.co.uk

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SHOOT OUT LAUNCHING THIS MONTH IS LONDON'S FIRST 'ANTI-GALLERY', ON A DISCREET RESIDENTIAL SITE IN NOTTING HILL. ABSOLUTELY HAS A PREVIEW

Heist Gallery is a fine art photography collective in Netting Hill, the brainchild of three fine art photography lovers, Mashael AI-Rushaid, J. Harry Edmiston and Anna Pia Lubinus. It started last year with the launch of heist-online, a virtual space showcasing works by fine art photographers from around the world. The art was selected based purely on appreciation and the resounding success of this online space helped them recognise a gap in the market. And now it has a physical space too: in a residential property in Notting Hill, Heist's offline space creates an immersive art experience for lovers of fine art photography. The space offers an unconventional experience by combining performance art and fine cuisine inspired by each exhibition. Heist established this anti-gallery as an authentic place where international photographers could showcase the strength of fine art photography and a platform for new and up-and-coming artists, removing the divide between artists and collectors and focusing on the story behind the art. Heist is taking the way art is experienced to the next level by creating an immersive space that allows fora personal engagement with fine art photography. They provide a unique interactive experience for bothphotographer and collector. Heist brings to London a forward-thinking anti-gallery providing analternative approach to the conventional white cube gallery experience, and offers an unparalleledopportunity to showcase fine art photography on the London arts scene. heist-online.com @heist_online

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ABSOLUTELY | CULTUR E

THE CELEBRATION ART BY ROB WOODCOX

THIERRY VAN BIESEN

DEAN WEST

ALFONSO BATALLA

RICHARD TUSCHMAN

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URBAN MEADOW Welcome to Urban Meadow Cafe & Bar, fresh British dining beside the iconic location of Londonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hyde Park.

OPENING TIMES: Monday - Friday 6:30 - 23:00 // Saturday 7:30 - 23:00 // Sunday 7:30 - 22:30 Bar open until midnight

150 Bayswater London, W2 4RT www.urbanmeadowcafe.com // 020 7792 7066

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ABSOLUTELY | PA RTIES

the new angel John Burton-Race celebrated the opening of his new restaurant, The New Angel, in Chepstow Place, with guests including Donna Air, Rusty Lee, Jilly Goolden, Jules Knight and Ravinder Bhogal and the cream of Notting Hill residents. Stylish canapĂŠs were ingested alongside lashings of Laurent Perrier champagne.

cafe nova After a short hiatus, Cafe Nova, a local community cafe on Portobello Green has reopened its doors and celebrated with South American canapes and live music from Alexis Mercedes.

phoebe at paradise The launch party of PHOEBE X ILLUSTRATED PEOPLE collaboration, designed by Made in Chelsea's Phoebe Lettice Thompson, took place at Paradise by way of Kensal Green, bringin a guest list of faces from the fashion, beauty and society worlds. Vodka and raspberry cocktails went down a treat and guests included Olivia Newman Young, Jack Bevan and Charlotte de Carle.

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agenda T H I S

don't

MIS

M O N T H ' S

H I G H L I G H T S

BRIDGET'S STRIPES S

Bridget Riley has lived in Notting Hill since the 1960s, though she works from a vast studio in east London. A new exhibition dedicated to the prolific artist contines at the David Zwirner gallery until 25 July - titled 'The Stripe Paintings 1961-2014', the show spreads over the gallery's three floors, making it the biggest exhibition of Riley's work since Tate Britain's 2003 retrospective. 24 Grafton Street, W1; davidzwirner.com

PALAZZO PICTURES otting Hill's brilliant online photography gallery has launched a new collection of pictures discovered at a little-known archive in Venice. Countless unseen pictures of stars at the Venice Film Festival during Hollywood's golden age include snaps of Ernest Hemingway, Sean Connery, Catherine Deneuve, Brigit Bardot and Sophia Loren, N

among others, but our favourite is this one, above: the improbably young-looking Jaggers in a gondola while on honeymoon in 1971. Other new collections on the site include a collaboration with Uncut magazine and a focus on the inimitable Dennis Hopper. Framed limited-edition prints cost from £115 at soniceditions.com

TRUE ROMANCE Penguin's beautiful new volume of poems for weddings includes all the obvious favourites – Shakespeare's sonnets as well as Keats, Shelley and Coleridge – plus lots of less likely contenders for romance such as Sylvia Plath and Margaret Atwood. With all entries selected by Laura Barber, this is a beautiful cloth-bound book, timed perfectly for the new wedding season. £14.99, Penguin Classics

GLASS ART Rising star Hanne Enemark – born in South Korea and and a graduate of the Royal College of Art – is the subject of Vessel Gallery's current show. Her sumptous Imago vases feature delightful golden butterflies that attach with tiny matches to the colourful droplet-shaped glass vases. Studded with precious gems, each vase is a unique composition of poised elegance. 114 Kensington Park Road, W11 vesselgallery.com

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the HISTORY BOY NOVELIST ALEX PRESTON RUNS A GUARDIAN MASTERCLASS ON RESEARCHING HISTORICAL FICTION. HERE HE OFFERS SOME POINTERS

neilgower.com

great historical novel starts, as all novels should, with love. Your novel is an act of seduction, a sympathetic reaching out of your mind into those of others: your characters, your readers. Fall in love with a place, because Robert MacFarlane said “history issues from geography like water issues from a spring.” Or fall in love with a person. Hermione Eyre’s Viper Wine – the hottest historical novel of the year so far – tells of 17th century British alchemist aristocrat Sir Kenelm Digby and his wife, Venetia. “I loved Sir Kenelm from the first,” Eyre told me. “I always wanted to know more about his restless Renaissance mind and I loved spending time with him - luckily, as my book took five years.” For me it was a love affair with Florence – I was thunderstruck by the beauty of the place – and a group of young Partisans who fought first the Fascists, then the Nazis. And out of that love I spun a novel, and wartime Florence still seems more real to me – that world

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ABSOLUTELY | CULTUR E

I created of dashing spies and eccentric ex-pats, of car chases and assassination attempts – than the London outside my window. David Mitchell, author of The Thousand Autumns of Jacob de Zoet, said, “I didn’t set out to write a historical novel – you’d have to be mad.” My first two novels were stridently contemporary. Faber & Faber, my publisher, held me out as the voice of my generation (or at least an urban, world-weary slice of it). It seemed bizarre and contrary to leave behind both London and the present day, but once I’d started to lose myself in the world of 1930s Florence, once I’d found the patchwork of real-life stories I’d knit together into In Love and War, the impulse to write became overpowering. After reading shelf after shelf of historical novels, after writing and discarding hundreds of thousands of words, after interviewing scores of people in English and Italian, and feeling like history – and the world – was too rich and strange to ever cram into the 300 pages of a book, I finished. Not wishing to let all this hard-won experience go to waste, I started teaching seminars on writing and researching historical novels to my students at the University

'WARTIME FLORENCE STILL SEEMS MORE REAL TO ME THAN THE LONDON OUTSIDE MY WINDOW' of Kent and for the Guardian’s Masterclasses. Below, I set out my top five recommendations for writing historical fiction that will spring to vivid life in the minds of your readers. Readers are driven by two ancient urges: the need to know what happens next and the desire to answer fundamental questions about the way we live now. The American author John Barthes said this latter impulse was the most important. You want your book to provide an answer to a reader’s existential yearning, to that ultimate question: “Who Am I?” Have your characters engage with all their senses with the facts of the fictional world you have created.

Have them smell the ammonia-tang of the stables, feel the guillotine’s blade, see the slur of lipstick on the mouth of the drunken chanteuse. Think about telling your tale from the perspective of an outsider. My hero, Esmond, is an Englishman who gets sent to Florence and we, the reader, learn the city’s “manystoried streets” (as Henry James called them) alongside him. Why does Arthur Conan Doyle narrate the Sherlock Holmes stories through Watson? Because Watson is a representation of the common reader – he asks of Holmes’s impenetrable intellect the questions that we all want to ask. It’s about entertainment, not information. I learnt this the hard way. When I first delivered In Love and War to my editor, he kept asking me why there were so many characters. “Because they were really there!” I told him, occasionally thumping my fist on the desk. “Their stories need to be told.” “But what’s your novel really about?” he asked. Don’t try to tell the whole story, or to write history. Give what WG Sebald described as “little nudges” to history to make it fit your tale, rather than letting the past dictate to you. Or, as Hilary Mantel said: “Every time the author writes, ‘He thought that . . .’ or ‘She felt that . . .,’ she’s making it up. We never know what people thought or felt, unless they kept frank and full journals. And the world is full of people who lie to their own diaries.” It’s all about the specific, illuminating detail. To convey a place and a period convincingly, you need to give us objects that can carry the freight of the world around them. Give us the small, particular thing, described in a way that is both true and fresh. Don’t give us the wide-angled establishing shot, hone in instead on one or two objects in a room, or a landscape. Give us the cameo brooch and the thumbmarked bible, the crooked spire and crumbling rusticated brickwork that will make us feel as if we are actually there. In Love and War by Alex Preston is published this month by Faber, h/b, £14.99

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MAIDA VALE

0207 788 9229 | INFO@DAYTRUE.COM | WWW.DAYTRUE.COM 128 ELGIN AVENUE MAIDA VALE LONDON W9 2HD

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Away

TA K E

A healthy lunch @ santo

AVA I L A B L

Every Friday & Saturday 12 to 5 pm 299 portobello road, notting hill, w10 5td | 0208 968 4590

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ABSOLUTELY | ST Y LE

fashion NOTES F o r t h e s a r t o r i a l ly m i n d e d

JUMP AROUND

This denim jumpsuit could be the season's most wearable piece. Mauro Grifoni is one of Italy's best-known brands but was little known here until it launched in Harrods last year, with its mix of sporty, rock and classic styles. £255, harrods.com

GO ASK ALICE

archive

Wondaland is a small label that's gathering momentum. Launched by Kensington-born Alice Keswick, fans include Sienna Miller, Margo Stilley and the Delevingne sisters, who love the collection's thoughtful and eclectic vibe. It's stocked at Kensal Rise's Lark. wondaland.co.uk

festival of fabulous Cocktail-fuelled shopping is nothing new but Broken Down Doll's sporadic pop-up appearances create a definite sense of occasion, and their quirky vintage collections include statement sequins, superhero worthy capes and classic cocktail wear. Next stop is Phoenix on Golborne, a perfect match for the stylish team. Put the dates in your diary now and look forward to a hibiscus margarita or two. 3-13 July, 67 Golborne Road, W10

material Merchant Archive boutique is known for its excellent taste, spanning new designers and vintage pieces, and it even has its own label. We adore this long lace hero skirt from the current collection, £1,395. 19 Kensington Park Road, W11 merchantarchive.com

MICROTREND The bikini

Purple Palm Mara Hoffman Cosmic Charlotte, Fountain, £210; matchesfashion.com £149; pistolpanties.com

Preen Ava Tile Print, £190; matchesfashion.com

Heart print, £180; stellamccartney.com

Hot coral Ipanema, £230; orlebarbrown.co.uk

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FORGET-ME-NOT TED BAKER Monny Skirt £129; tedbaker.com

PAUL AND JOE SS14

SS14 florals are bolder and sassier than ever. More power to the flower

Debut at Debenhams £100; debenhams.com

Stella Mccartney Pink Floral Coat £1,195; selfridges.com

Dolce & Gabbana Glam Floral Brocade Cross-Body Bag £475; Matchesfashion.Com

Erdem Vala Floral-Print Silk-Satin Jumpsuit, £1,120; mytheresa.com

No.21 Fantasia Floral Cocoon Coat £1,305; matchesfashion.com

Mother of Pearl, Juno Floral Print Top, £246; matchesfashion.com

Sophia Webster Nina Shoes, £540; sophiawebster.co.uk

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Up to 70% off

great quality bed linen

available all day, every day at ACHICA.com

£20 OFF

YOUR FIRST ORDER USE CODE

ABSOLUTELY714

Sheridan ‘Nerina’ bed linen shown above from £35 for a single set. HOTEL LIVING plain dye available in 400, 600, 1000 thread count from £30 for a single duvet cover. Both ranges available throughout July 2014.

FURNITURE AND HOMEWARE BRANDS AT EXCEPTIONAL PRICES ANYWHERE YOU CAN GET ON-LINE

£20 off your first order when you spend over £60, not valid on travel promotions. *Savings off RRP. Full T&Cs on www.ACHICA.com

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My Moodboard Hayley Menzies, scarf designer, shares her creative inspirations

I DON'T HAVE A STYLE ICON AS SUCH

but I always admire how effortless Kate Moss looks. Like Kate, much of my wardrobe revolves around a pair of black skinny jeans. Over the years she’s worked vintage and couture impeccably, but for timeless, elegant 1950s glamour, no-one does it quite like Grace Kelly.

MY FAVOURITE HOLIDAY DESTINATION all depends

on how I’m feeling. I’ve just got back from a fun week in Ibiza and am looking forward to a week at the Suryalila Retreat in Andalucia with its amazing organic food, and world-class yoga.

MY FAVOURITE DESIGNER is Chanel. I love

how diverse and fresh each collection is and the shows are genius. But for scarves Ottoline are unbeatable...

MY FAVOURITE PIECE OF ART is Ophelia by Sir John

Everett Millais. As a child I was mesmerised by her tranquil beauty and the tragedy of her story. A true masterpiece and inspiration.

MY MOST TREASURED POSSESSION

is a 1970s floorlength Hermes dress. I collect beautiful vintage dresses. During Paris Fashion Week I managed to slip away on a vintage mission the length of Rue de Rivoli and the breadth of the Marais district.

MY FAVOURITE ITEM OF CLOTHING is my sexy-as-

hell Balenciaga sandals… they work with most looks and are uber comfortable.

MY FAVOURITE PIECE FROM MY OWNCOLLECTION is the Tiger Eye in

monochrome. Each silk scarf is trimmed with a delicate gold chain sewn on over 15 hours by hand.. It works well dressed up with a vintage dress or down with black leather skinnies and my battered studded cowboy boots.

hayleymenzies.com, ottolinelondon.com

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c o a s t

t o

C OA ST Balance pops of leopard print with sophisticated neutrals for grown-up summer glamour Photography: HELENE SANDBERG Styling: CHARLIE MOORE

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Leopard print faux fur coat, £200, by Pepe Jeans; pepejeans.com Bikini top, £127, and high-waisted bottoms, £86, both by Prism at my-wardrobe.com

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Swimsuit, £82, princessetamtam.co.uk Wool cardigan, £109, stills-atelier.com Leopard print belt, £60, by Twiggy at fenwick.co.uk Leather sandals, £260, by pedrogarcia.com Socks stylist's own

FASHION SHOOT 7 PAGER.indd 38

17/06/2014 14:29

Bow bikini top, £49, by Princesse Tam Tam; princessetamtam.co.uk Crochet pencil skirt, £399, by Sea Ny at my-wardrobe.com Cream coat, £175, by Pepe Jeans; pepejeans.com

FASHION SHOOT 7 PAGER.indd 39

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Cable knit sweater, £180, by MIH; mih-jeans.com Printed towel, £35, by Seafolly; seafolly.com

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Cream shift dress, £302, by Cacharel; colibrifashion.com Leopard print pony hair clutch, £380, by 3.1 Phillip Lim at my-wardrobe.com Suede sandals, £99, by Boden; boden.co.uk Socks stylist's own

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Crochet and tassel top, ÂŁ115, by Eberjey at Heidi Klein; heidiklein.com Leopard print cotton shorts, ÂŁ129, by Hartford at Fenwick; fenwick.co.uk

FASHION SHOOT 7 PAGER.indd 42

Photography: Helene Sandberg Styling: Charlie Moore Hair and Make up: Desmond Grundy using Sisley and M.A.C Cosmetics Model: Natalia at Elite

17/06/2014 14:31

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JUNE AD 297X210:Layout 1 17/06/2014 18:46 Page 1

PRIVET

laser treatments. waxing. massage. manicures. spray tanning.

to p to to e b o d y to p i a r y

Book a bespoke Murad facial in July and receive a free skin consultation and complimentary eye mask.

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18/06/2014 09:53

ABSOLUTELY | PROMOTION

R I Z SUR F S H O RTS iz is a small and independent manufacturer of beautiful men's tailored surf shorts, aimed at a more grown-up, stylish and sophisticated surfer. Each pair is digitally printed with earth-friendly inks and made from recycled and recyclable material. Riz are offering 15% off all shorts only with the code: ABSOLUTELYSUMMER.

19 Lonsdale Road, NW6 6RA 07747 797 018; rizboardshorts.com

CO CO NA I L BAR ortobello Road’s Coco Nail Bar was crowned Nail Salon of the Year at the 17th Annual Professional Beauty Awards and the Portobello Road favourite is a great spot to lean back in a massage chair with a glass of fizz and let your fingers and toes be treated.

ego hair

Ego has been blazing the trail for stylish hair in Queens Park since 1997 and remains the area’s favourite salon, thanks to the charm and charisma of owner Andy. Book now for stylish cuts and sharp colours.

267 Portobello Road, W11, 020 7243 1113, coconailbar.com

45 Salusbury Road NW6; 020 7625 4811; egohair.co.uk

SUMMER

ESSENTIALS All you need for the holidays ahead

O PT I CH I C ptichic is an independent familyrun opticians established since 1985. They have a range of offers including 50% off designer sunglasses (on selected lines whilst stocks last), free eye test when you spend £100 or more, and 10% off the entire range on first purchase. Choose from the huge selection of designer frames including ray ban, Christian Dior, Chopard, Cazal, Tom Ford, Prada and many more.

83 Bishop's Bridge Rd, London W2 6BG 020 7229 8399

Feature NH.indd 45

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ABSOLUTELY | PROFILE

TALL STORY Atalanta Weller’s skyscraper heels are an imposing presence on the catwalk – but the Notting Hill-based shoe designer prides herself on creating shoes that are functional as well as beautiful. Pendle Harte meets her

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talanta Weller is known for her conceptual, avant garde footwear – but in her Notting Hill studio, surprisingly, we’re talking about comfort. ‘I’m not going to say that this six inch wedge is the most comfortable shoe you’ll ever put on, but compared to other six-inch wedges, it is very comfortable,’ she says, handing me a terrifyingly tall but improbably soft and beautiful piece of footwear. Her shoes may look unwearable, but Weller says she often finds herself the only person still wearing heels after midnight at weddings. Which, in the field of wearability, is really saying something. ‘I feel that weddings are quite the biggest endurance for feet,’ she says, expertly.

PORTRAIT BY ADAM GOODISON

But focusing too much on comfort feels a bit, well, pedestrian, in the face of such beautiful design. Atalanta Weller is a shoe designer to watch – having worked with Henry Holland, Gareth Pugh and Bruno Magli and designed lots of stylized shoes for catwalks, her creations are unusual and design-led. She came to footwear via sculpture – having never seen herself in fashion – and her aesthetic is strong and what she calls ‘architectural’. The shoes have ‘a strong sculptural element and a slightly sci-fi fantasy side to them,’ she says, describing her look as ‘retro futurism’. Which is apt – at the extreme end are Ziggy Stardustesque killer heels in bright leathers with teetering wedges, lightningbolt details and shimmery paint effects, while the more pared-down pieces share a fetish feel with zips, buckles and cutouts. ‘My shoes are for women who do stuff. They want something cool and sexy but also functional,’ she says. ‘Something different but which doesn’t scream.’ Not that all her boots are made for walking. There’s a pair of angular 100% steel platform ankle boots that would weigh a giant down, but

THE SHOES HAVE A STRONG SCULPTURAL ELEMENT AND A SLIGHTLY SCI-FI FANTASY SIDE TO THEM

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ABSOLUTELY | PROFILE

which have a life of their own in photoshoots. There are pairs in the V&A and there are shoes destined for the Brooklyn Museum’s autumn exhibition dedicated to ‘fashion’s most provocative accessory’ Killer Heels. ‘It’s that crossover between art and fashion that roots the brand at a progressive and unique position,’ explains Weller. And suddenly we’re back to comfort. ‘These wedges are super high but they’ve got blown polyurethane inside, which is like the midsole of a trainer, so they’re super lightweight,’ she tells me with enthusiasm, offering me a supremely soft black and white six-inch wedge whose frightening pitch is slightly tamed by the fact that it’s literally as light as a feather. Trying it on, I am standing on tiptoe, but my feet are gently cushioned and the shoe really does feel more like a lightweight trainer than a killer heel. Think air max on stilts. So is it weight that’s the secret for comfort? ‘It’s all about the shape of the last. Manolo Blahnik balances his shoes incredibly well and that’s why they’re so comfortable,’ explains Weller. Her beautiful ‘bubble shoe’ (in orange and nude for SS14) sports a superhigh spike of a heel, but it’s balanced by a concealed cork platform in the shoe bed which has ‘a natural bounce’ to it for comfort. And then there’s the soft Italian lamb leather and the Portuguese sizing, which is slightly kinder than an Italian fitting, all adding to the (relative) comfort. Shoemaking is all about precision and the three-year course at Cordwainers taught Weller the oldfashioned methods involving taping lasts and working in intricate detail in points of milimetres. 'With shoes you go from 3D to 2D then back to 3D again, she explains, showing me a last-in-progress, covered in masking tape that, when removed, makes the pattern for cutting the leather.

So what's she working on now? 'For SS15 I'm doing lots of metallic. I just can’t get away from it. I like a strong colour and I'm a big fan of blue, which I can never quite put down. Though there's a frightening statistic that around 80% of shoes are sold in black.' Weller's best-seller at the moment is a sensible-looking city sandal in black. 'It's an urban summer shoe, you can wear it in the rain or on the tube. We’re the antithesis of Louboutin - we're not dressy.' She's also busy with wedding shoes, which are popular with brides wanting something less girlie. She'll make any of her styles in a colour to match your dress. Launching online this month is a new collaboration between Weller and Clarks Originals, a take on the classic desert boot. 'For me, it's not a crazy-looking shoe but for Clarks it's a progressive profile. It's a bit feistier.' It's a black suede wedge with a heavy crepe sole and a signature white lightning stripe on the heel. So how many pairs of shoes does the shoe designer have at home? Weller looks sheepish. 'I try not to count. A couple of hundred probably. I haven’t worn anyone else’s shoes for five years, apart from wellies. Well, why should she?

WELLER OFTEN FINDS HERSELF THE ONLY PERSON STILL WEARING HEELS AFTER MIDNIGHT AT WEDDINGS. WHICH, IN THE FIELD OF WEARABILITY, IS REALLY SAYING SOMETHING

atalantaweller.com

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Open : Mon - Wed 9-8 Thur - Fri 9-8 Sat 9-6 / Sun 12-5 ď&#x20AC;Ł 02076254811 45 salusbury road Queens Park NW6 6NJ egohair.co.uk

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29/11/2012 10:35

ABSOLUTELY | ST Y LE

Flower FAIRY A NEW BOOK FROM SCARLET AND VIOLET’S VIC BROTHERSON FOCUSES ON WEDDING FLOWERS. HERE’S HER HOW-TO GUIDE FOR A HAND-TIED BOUQUET OR TABLE SETTING

turn the bouquet using your free hand. Keep all the stems facing in the same direction – as they are added the twist will become apparent. As each stem is added, slightly drop the height to achieve a rounded shape. Finish with the hardiest stems, as these will prevent the string from cutting into any softer stems and decapitating the flowers. Grasp the string around your little finger, then loop it around the bouquet above your holding hand at least once. Pull tightly, place the bouquet on a surface and tie in a double knot.

and tying ensures the flowers are layered correctly, but if you are happy for them to look rustic and relaxed and you are arranging them in containers, the only reason to tie them is if you would like guests to take them home. The trick to hand tying is: practice, practice, practice and a good selection of flowers; the beauty is in the flowers rather than the technique.

YOU WILL NEED:

flowers, string and scissors (a knife or secateurs, if preferred)

INGREDIENTS:

garden rose, scabious, dahlia, aconitum, cow parsley, muehlenbeckia, senecio and achillea (or flowers of your choice)

whereas all round-headed flowers will make a balanced, dome-like bunch.

Choose flowers with fine stems, as they are easy to handle. Use plenty of varieties, of flowers and foliages so you get a textural and exciting bouquet. Use however many you would like; in this example there are a couple of aconitum and only one dahlia. A mix of the spires (aconitum, delphinium, veronica, etc) and rounded shapes (rose, peony, dahlia, etc) will give a rustic feel

4 3

Chop the stems to around 30cm long and clear them of thorns, leaves and painful nodules at least 15cm from the stem base. Lay out the prepared flowers on a clear surface so they are easy to select.

Begin by choosing a leading flower and hold it in your left hand (reverse if you’re left handed). Using your other hand, add from the flowers and foliage on the table, holding the flowers in place in your palm with your thumb and forefinger. Your other fingers grip in and release as more flowers are added. Every third stem or so,

Trim the stems so they are all a similar length. If you are putting the flowers into a vase, test the height until the stems touch the base and the flowers sit well in the neck. If using for a carried bouquet, ensure the stems are not too bulky and tie lower down if necessary. For a bouquet, the stem length is usually around a hand and a half.

Taken from: Vintage Wedding Flowers, by Vic Brotherson, published by Kyle Books, priced at £25, photography by Catherine Gratwicke

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17/06/2014 17:36

beauty NOTES All the best summer treatments reviewed

43 Face pened on the site that used to house Jade Jagger, 43 Face is a new kind of spa. For one thing, it’s run by a man, Gibran Reiste-Charles, who recently qualified as a beauty therapist (the former banker cut an unusual figure in a class of young women and school-leavers). His dedication to skin health is clear from a glance at his menu, which offers the widest array of skin treatments I’ve ever seen, with facials ranging from Green Algae Skin Restoration to the Snail Serum Facial, the 24k Gold Facial and the simply named ‘I am Joan Collins’. For me, it was a Dragon’s Blood facial, using not the actual blood of a real dragon but the sap of a South American tree that’s used as a natural plaster thanks to its solidifying nature. My skin is left feeling soft, smooth and firm with results that last for days. This is an exciting new space and one that’s set to inspire a lot of loyalty. Pendle Harte

43 All Saints Road, W11 020 3757 6244

HERSHESONS

BLOW DRY BAR

From the moment I walked into Hershesons Blow Dry Bar and was asked to select my 'do' from the wall of vast posters I knew this was not your standard blow out. I went for Smooth Wavy, which my stylist, Ellen Pebbles Parratt, executed with no fuss but lots of fun in 40 mins (usually appointment times are 30 mins, but I have a lot of hair). Ellen advised me not to brush it but to just 'rough it up' bed-head style and it lasted for a full three days. Genius. Arabella Preston Each style costs £25 and walk-ins are available but they advise booking at weekends and evenings. Arabella Preston Westfield, The Village; 020 8743 0868

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ABSOLUTELY | HEA LTH & BEAUT Y

SWANKY LASH AND BROW BAR ne single appointment at Swankys can sort out all your holiday maintenance issues. Gel nails are a brilliant summer option, robust enough to withstand the season’s extra toe exposure as well as the threats of saltwater and sand. The Swanky triple-scrub pedicure uses a host of natural products (including the homemade salt and rose petal scrub, mixed in the Swanky kitchen) and starts with an alarmingly thorough filing of dead skin and continues with soaking and primping until your toes are left as pretty as anything. Meanwhile, your fingers can be treated to a long-lasting gel manicure (my recommendation? Artistic’s new lilac, brilliantly called Rhythm) and while you’re at it, why not lean back and have your brows threaded and tinted too? I felt like a real princess with three people attending to my needs at once. And still, I was out within 90 minutes, feeling fantastic. Pendle Harte

STRIP WAXING he day of reckoning has arrived. My very first wax. As an alpha male, it had never been part of my plan. But still, here I am at Strip waiting for my back and crack hair to be removed. Downstairs in the Manifico chamber (the masculine one), I feel slightly nervy to find myself completely naked with only a small towel around me. But as soon as the lovely Cat re-enters and starts chatting, I feel instantly at ease. She explains that she will be using Manifico hot and strip wax, specifically designed for men with their strong hair and sensitive skin. She goes to work on my crack area and then my back and shoulders, chatting away throughout – and before I know it, the procedure has finished and to my amazement, it has been entirely pain-free. I will happily do this on a regular basis from now on. Stewart Hyde

335 Portobello Road W10; 020 8969 7580

112 Talbot Road W11 020 7727 2754

THREE OF THE BEST orange lipsticks Wild about Beauty Nutrilips Lipstick in Betty, £15; wildaboutbeauty.com Deborah Lippmann Lip Colour in Call Me Maybe, £18; lookfantastic.com

By Terry Rouge Terrybly Lipstick in 400 21 VD, £33; uk.spacenk.com

SEBASTIAN

have a girlfriend who makes a 200-mile round trip, every two months, to see her hairdresser. He's cut her hair for 15 years and it always looks wonderful. I have always gone to my nearest salon, booking a same day appointment with whoever is available, for when I can no longer stand my reflection. No longer. Sebastien was trained in his native France by Grace Kelly's personal hairdresser. He came to London 15 years ago and his loyal following includes Elle McPherson, Katherine Jenkins and the beautiful Delevigne sisters have followed him to his own salon on Thackery Street. The salon was previously a gallery so it's light, bright and elegant. Sebastien listened carefully to me bemoaning my fine hair and the state that hair straighteners had left it in; and he cut expertly and accordingly. He advised me on which products would work for my hair type and which I should avoid. The cut was exactly what I wanted and has kept its shape brilliantly over the weeks that followed. I wasn't brave enough to try his unique extensions, a style he has devised himself, but perhaps next time. Even if I don't manage the extensions, I will certainly be back for my next cut. Alex Hunter 15 Thackeray Street, W8 020 7937 2946

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GET TWICE AS FIT AND SAVE ÂŁ120 Pop in today or call us for membership enquiries: 3-5 Thorpe Close, London W10 5XL 020 8962 5753

1 Crowthorne Road, London W10 6RP 020 8969 0992

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ABSOLUTELY | HEA LTH & BEAUT Y

Nip + Fab 365 Body Glow Fix, £9.95; nipandfab.com

Clarins Self Tanning Instant Gel, £19; clarins.co.uk

Madame La La Tan, £36; madamelala.com

Clinique Body Tinted Lotion Light-Medium, £18; clinique.co.uk

St. Tropez Self Tan Express Advanced Bronzing Mousse, £33; st-tropez.com

Crème de la Mer The Face and Body Gradual Tan, £65; cremedelamer.co.uk

Brown SUGAR 8 OF THE BEST TANNING PRODUCTS

Vita Liberata pHenomenal 2-3 Week Tan Mousse Medium, £37.50; vitaliberata.co.uk

Lancôme Self Tan Flash Bronzer, £23; lancome.co.uk

ST M UAV E H

Fake Bake Flawless Self Tan Liquid, £22.95; fakebake.co.uk

James Read Bronzing Mousse, £24.50; jamesreadtan.com

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ABSOLUTELY | HEA LTH & BEAUT Y

make up

INSIDER

Arabella Preston on the holiday face

CHANEL

verything loosens up a little under the heat of a summer sun and now is the perfect time to experiment with your makeup (and have a little bit of fun). With modern formulations and waterproof technologies, there’s no reason not to enjoy a dash of lipstick or liner on the beach (and around the edge of your ice-cold G&T). Having said that, please do keep it light. Foundation is unnecessary. See summer as an opportunity to allow your skin to breathe a little. To stop shine, apply a little of This Works In Transit Primer, then powder the centre of your face. This Hourglass Ambient Light palette is perfect. You can highlight, contour and take away redness and shine (but not glow) all in one product. Waterproof mascaras are of course the only option if you’re a sporty type on holiday (this Chantecaille one is the only one that doesn’t wreck my lashes), but if lounging poolside with a novel is more your scene then why not try a coloured mascara? A mid blue like this By Terry one is fantastic against tanned skin. In the evening, a slick of the Aqua Print colour in Violet Vibes on the top lid adds a glamourous touch. To keep the look groomed, I always add a little brow pencil to my arch to stop looking too hippyish. But it should be undetectable against your bare skin, so go lightly. A cheek tint is essential in summer. You need to blend quickly when applying, but once on they won’t budge and won’t interfere with or melt into sunscreen. This Soap and Glory Cheekmate is one I return to time and time again. And for lips the By Terry Tint to Lip in Beach Game is a cheerful but sheer pop of colour.

4 2

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Follow Arabella Preston on instagram @arabellabeauty 9

1. Hourglass Ambient Light Palette, £56, uk.spacenk.com 2. By Terry Aqua Print Eyeshadow in Violet Vibes, £23, harrods.com 3. By Terry Terrybly Mascara in Terrybleu, £32, harrods.com 4. This Works In Transit Primer, £30, thisworks.com 5. Soap and Glory Cheek Mate, £8, boots.com 6. Chantecaille Liquid Lumiere in Luster, £33, uk.spacenk.com 7. By Terry Tint to Lip in Beach Game, £22, harrods.com 8. Chantecaille Supreme Cils Waterproof Mascara, £45, uk.spacenk.com 9. Hourglass Arch Brow Sculpting Pencil, £26, uk.spacenk.com

MAKE UP INSIDER june NH.indd 57

17/06/2014 17:02

Sweet DREAMS

SLEEP IS THE KEY TO LOOKING AND FEELING YOUR BEST. BUT HOW TO MAKE SURE YOU GET ENOUGH? BEAUTYWORKSWEST’S SUSIE ROGERS HAS COLLABORATED WITH LEAH HARDY AND DR DANIEL SISTER TO PRODUCE THE ULTIMATE MANUAL FOR WOMEN’S HEALTH

SUPERCHARGE YOUR SLEEP

There are lots of ways to help us sleep better, no matter what our genetic programming. Apart from the obvious – don’t drink espressos after 3 pm, don’t drink lots of alcohol or stay up until 3 am playing video games on brightly lit screens – try some of the following: Take a bath before bed. This is not just to relax you; cooling the body triggers sleep, and the best way to ensure cooling is to get warmed up first! A hot foot bath may be a substitute for a full body bath. Heating the skin on your stomach or chest may help you fall asleep more quickly. A hot water bottle should do the trick. When you wake up, set your sleep cycle by getting a few minutes of bright natural light on your face as a soon as you can and for at least thirty minutes. Even a cloudy day is many, many times brighter than an artificially lit room. Just do it. Most of us don’t get enough sleep. If we go to bed earlier,

it’s likely we will fall asleep and get the sleep we need, deserve and, let’s face it, enjoy.

TAKE CONTROL

For great sleep you need to learn some healthy sleep habits. A regular sleep schedule, where you go to bed and wake up at the same time, is proven to help you sleep. But a pre-sleep schedule is also vital. Here’s your countdown to a great night: Six hours before bed – have your last alcoholic drink. OK, that may be unreasonable if you are at dinner or a party, but remember, every drink you have later than this can stymie sleep. Four hours before bed – exercise. A workout can leave you healthily tired, but don’t exercise later than three hours before bed, to allow your body time to cool down, which is a natural sleep trigger. You can do yoga and stretches before bedtime, as these help you relax. Three hours before bed – take a hot bath or shower to heat your body and then let it cool.

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ABSOLUTELY | HEA LTH & BEAUT Y

Two hours before bed – turn off your screens. The light from TVs, tablets, laptops and even your phone, confuses your brain, so it produces up to 22 per cent less melatonin after only two hours of screen time. Non-backlit screens such as Kindles are OK. Ninety minutes before bed – dim your lights. Low light triggers melatonin. Sleep in a dark, quiet room. One hour before bed – open a window or turn off the heating in your bedroom. A cool (not cold) room will stimulate sleep and help keep night sweats at bay. Wear socks to keep your core temperature stable. Thirty minutes before bed – open a book. Remember, reading something absorbing can reduce stress levels by more than twothirds in just six minutes! ‘I refuse to admit that I am more than fifty-two, even if that makes my children illegitimate.’ Nancy Astor

WIN! Beautyworkswest is offering one lucky reader a copy of Your Hormone Doctor along with a three-month supply of Beautyworkswest and Dr Daniel's Youth supplements. For your chance to win, send your name, address and telephone number to competitions@zest-media.com with Youth in the subject line by 7 July. The first entry to be chosen at random will win.

Extract taken from Your Hormone Doctor – healthier, happier and slimmer at any age by Leah Hardy and Susie Rogers with Dr Daniel Sister, £12.99, Penguin

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Bio Sculpture Gel, the original everlasting manicure, is a chip-free, salon treatment that cures to a strong yet flexible, glossy finish and lasts for up to three weeks. The damage-free, nourishing treatment will protect and enhance your natural nails and is available in over 150 colours. As the original nail gel, Bio Sculpture Gel is tried, tested and proven. For your nearest salon or further information on starter kits and training courses for beginners and experienced nail technicians visit Proud www.biosculpture.co.uk or call 0845 331 2347 members of the

@biosculpturegb

www.biosculpture.co.uk

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2014/01/10 4:44 PM

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18/02/2014 10:14

London Best Kept Secret Personal Beauty Services in the comfort of your own home

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_ADVERT PLACEMENTS.indd 3

17/06/2014 16:38

18/06/2014 09:43

ABSOLUTELY | PROMOTION sunscreen. In order to be called a broad-spectrum sun-screen, it will have undergone rigorous laboratory tests and should be at least SPF 15. Incidentally, SPF levels are not a measure of how much protection the sunscreen will provide you with, rather it is a measure of time in minutes that it will work for. To be specific, if it takes 5 minutes for your skin to start reddening (skin erythema) then SPF 50 should provide you with 50 times 5 minutes of protection – 250 minutes ( just over 4 hours). If you can’t face doing the maths, don’t worry: as a general rule you shouldn’t spend more than two hours in the sun without re-applying your sunscreen regardless of the SPF. Any form of sunscreen is potentially bad for you if used or applied incorrectly or in insufficient quantity as it offers the false belief that we are safe, usually leading to an unhealthily prolonged spell in the sun. For this reason Dr Bela offers a guide for us all to follow:

• First of all, choose the product very carefully; don’t choose based on price, brand or bottle-size. Consider all of the above and do your own research.

Perfect skin Protecting your skin is paramount at this time of year. Trevor Bishop meets Dr Bela, Consultant Dermatologist at The Park Club's MediSpa

he sun is out. We're all suddenly so much happier and T we just want to get outside and enjoy it. After all, this is England and we never know when the next sunny day will visit. But how many of us really know the facts; the significance of SPF, UPF, UVA or UVB? It’s interesting to consider the lengths we go to just to avoid a cold and yet, let’s be honest, we are generally quite blasé about skin cancer. As with all illness, prevention is better than cure and Park Club MediSpa Consultant Dermatlogist, Dr Bela, is keen to advise us all on how to prevent melanomas. Avoiding the sun would be one way, though it’s possibly not practical and certainly not likely for the majority of the sun-starved residents of our cloudy island. So the next best thing is to cover up with sun screen and appropriate clothing.

THE SUN IS THE BIGGEST SINGLE ENEMY TO THE SKIN FOR 2 REASONS: MELANOMA, SKIN CANCER FORMATION AND AGING There are two types of harmful ultraviolet rays that we need to protect ourselves against; ultraviolet A (long-wave) and ultraviolet B (shortwave) rays and the correct type and use of sunscreen is so important in our defence. UVB are the rays that cause damage to the epidermis (skin surface) while UVA penetrates beyond the epidermis into the dermis. It doesn’t cause any visible damage but it can penetrate glass and is the most potentially damaging in regard to skin cancer. The ideal sunscreen would be a waterproof, broad-spectrum (protecting you from UVA & UVB) high SPF factor

• Ideally, apply sunscreen twice in the morning to cool, dry skin, waiting at least 30 minutes between applications and at least 30 minutes prior to going outside. • Sunscreen is always the last step before foundation make up, but applied after a barrier repair skin care product since sunscreen ingredients bind to the stratum corneum. This binding is prevented if one is already perspiring. • Wearing make-up with SPF does not provide adequate coverage, but it does, nonetheless, provide an extra layer of protection. • All colours and types of skin should be using sunscreen. UPF levels in clothing are worth taking into account as well as the sun’s rays penetrate unprotected materials. UPF is rated from 15 to 50+ with 15-24 classed as good, 25-39 as very good and 40-50+ classed as excellent. So, enjoy this great spell of weather for as long as it lasts but look after yourselves and if you have any doubts or suspicions, book in for a mole-check with Dr Bela. In fact, if you do so before the end of August, you will receive a 15% discount, not to mention the peace of mind.

For more information on skin protection, aesthetics, as well as expert mole checks and removals, please visit theparkclubmedispa. co.uk or contact The Park Club MediSpa on 020 8743 1900.

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ABSOLUTELY | INTER IOR S

Living well Stylish and versatile pieces with a focus on craftsmanship are the staple at Joined + Jointed, whose contemporary style gives way to original, accessible and exclusive furniture pieces. joinedandjointed.com

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We may be new to you but we have the experience of nearly 50 years delivering impeccably stylish, exquisitely designed products to consumers with different tastes and views. We relish exotic stylish products, substantially classic, modern designs which are simple, elegant and cutting-edge style with individuality. Our reputation is deeply rooted in providing the finest array of gifts from the most exclusive and delicate to the most unusual.

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Factory BOY THE GOLDFINGER FACTORY IS W10’S NEWEST INITIATIVE TO COMBINE STYLE WITH COMMUNITY ENTERPRIZE. PENDLE HARTE VISITS AND MEETS OLIVER WADDINGTON-BALL THE MAN BEHIND IT ALL

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ABSOLUTELY | INTER IOR S

tanding outside Trellick Tower, the natural thing to do is to look up. A passer-by wouldn’t really notice the ground floor, or at least not until recently. But now a new initiative is attracting interest from an audience as diverse as the community it inhabits, and marking a new lease of life for Trellick’s ground floor. This is the exotically named Goldfinger Factory, a project dedicated to the philosophy of reuse and ‘turning waste into gold’ and named of course after Trellick’s architect Erno Goldfinger. At first glance you might think this was another Golborne Road furniture shop with its artfully restored and distressed mid-century pieces. There are Ercol chairs and bits of 1960s pottery, Danish teak sideboards and quirky tallboys as well as some plain weird pieces including a seven-seater stretch moped. You can go in and buy any of these things in the regular way, of course – though it’s what happens downstairs that really shows what the factory is all about. Here, there’s a huge workshop space that’s establishing itself as a school, having secured funding from the Royal Borough for social enterprise training. Responding to fundamental problems in the apprenticeship market, the idea is ultimately to set up a GNVQ college with courses in carpentry, cabinet making and other trades, for people of all ages and all backgrounds. There are simple workshops for beginners in, say, upcycling a chair, as well as more specialist classes for people with experience and the factory is open to all – those who can, pay fees, while others don’t. And in addition to all this, there’s a community space that welcomes lovely organisations such as the community gardening club. It’s all down to one man, charismatic idealist Oliver Waddington-Ball. This modern-day Rumpelstiltskin is an exile

WE’RE NOT TRYING TO BE A DESIGN BRAND – WE’RE ABOUT EMPOWERING COMMUNITIES TO TURN WASTE INTO GOLD from the corporate world, having suffered an ‘existential crisis’ while working for Dow Jones in Beijing. ‘I had always been taught that waste is wrong and I began to find the state of the world really depressing when researching things like population increases and the control of resources,’ he explains. Which may sound a world away from a reclaimed G-Plan sideboard, but Waddington-Ball’s response to all the global gloom and doom is ‘creating positive networks’ and his buzzwords include ‘community’ and ‘empower’ and ‘self-sustaining’. He says: ‘We’re not trying to be a design brand – we’re about empowering communities to turn waste into gold,’ but he doesn’t like the term ‘antique’ – ‘It just means a piece of waste that’s been valued’. He’s built up an impressive team to support him, most of them locals who have come in out of curiosity, including a

curator who’s an ex-merchandiser for Topshop, responsible for the stylish display. ‘Someone said we were like a Wes Anderson movie,’ says Waddington-Ball, and you can see why – the sheer mass of activity and colourful characters in the appealingly chaotic space has a definite whifft of the Royal Tenenbaums to it. One of the teachers is experienced local upcycler Rasha El-Sady, who is selling her colourful pieces upstairs and demonstrating her skills downstairs. Local support has been huge. Nu-Line, the Westbourne Park Road builders’ mecca, has donated lots of tools and materials, while Axminster have supplied equipment. The plan is to become self-sustainable within three years. Already the team offers building services for residential houses and has been involved in big jobs such as London Fashion Week, all through word-of-mouth, and they are currently refurbishing a big house in London Fields. ‘We want to capture the public imagination about re-use in general,’ says Waddington-Ball. Support him by buying something from the Goldfinger Factory Collection – or why not go downstairs to learn a new skill? GOLDFINGER FACTORY Trellick Tower, Golborne Road, W10 5NY goldfingerfactory.com

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10/02/2014 11:55

ANOTHER BRICK IN THE WALL THIS UNUSUAL NOTTING HILL HOUSE, SHORTLISTED FOR THE STIRLING PRIZE, BREAKS ALL THE USUAL RULES OF DOMESTICITY. ABSOLUTELY TAKES A TOUR

hen architects Caruso St John set to designing a house for this plot, the problem was that it wasn’t like any other sort of plot. Formerly housing a mechanics workshop and almost invisible from the street, the site was far from conventional, its logistics challenging to say the least. The constricted plot is shaped like a horse’s head, surrounded and overlooked by three taller buildings, and can only be reached by a carriage way through the facade of an adjacent Victorian terrace. The finished product was a resounding architectural success and shortlisted for the Stirling Prize in 2005. Now the house, made entirely from an estimated total of 66,000 bricks, is a popular destination as part of London Open House weekend every September. It’s a cunning combination of lateral loft-living and conventional space. Described by the respected art critic Stephen Bayley as “modest, respectful and appropriate”, this house takes the current vogue for all things flashy and trashy and turns it on its head. It is at once monastic, yet warm with

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ABSOLUTELY | INTER IOR S

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THE HOUSE, MADE ENTIRELY FROM AN ESTIMATED TOTAL OF 66,000 BRICKS, IS A POPULAR DESTINATION AS PART OF LONDON OPEN HOUSE WEEKEND

the approachability so often lacking in contemporary houses. It also manages to achieve massive lateral space, so hard to find in the city. Through the unobtrusive entrance is an impressive entrance hall that leads you into the top floor, with a vast entertaining space and a great view over the gardens beyond. Light floods in through scattered apertures in the roof and downstairs are the bedrooms, which are amazingly silent in a city full of noise. Three separate outside spaces give plenty of room for sunbathing and navel-gazing. The interior plan is completely

separate from the typologies of the London town-house or the inner city loft, while still retaining a strong sense of dwelling at the heart of the city. Walking around the house takes you across broad spaces, to corners with windows over-looking small gardens, to intimate rooms deep inside. The exterior form of the house that is generated by this varied arrangement is incomprehensible from within. Instead, the form appears unbound and soft, as if an internal force is pressing the walls and roof out against the buildings around it. Like a baroque chapel in Rome buried deep within the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s close pattern of narrow streets, the expansive interior is a place of escape and dreams. Brick House is currently on the market with Crayson at a guide price of ÂŁ4.95m

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This

Woman’s Work

Muriel Chatel & Corinna Pyke Borough Wines

Interview by Lindsay Baker Portrait by Emma Harpin

ipping from her glass of crisp white wine, Borough Wines founder Muriel Chatel is telling me in her distinctive Bergerac lilt about what we’re drinking – and the monks who made it. “The monastery is in Tramini on the Austrian border with Hungary, and there’s a vineyard. It’s beautiful – and the monks make the wine, they came to do a tasting. But they’re very modern monks they were wearing suits.” This is a very Borough Wines kind of conversation. The small, independent group of wine shops love to champion up-and-coming winemakers who they import – they even hold ‘Meet the Makers (and taste their wine)’ evenings at their stores, most recently featuring Languedoc biodynamisers Turner Pageot. They make a point of giving small suppliers a fair deal, too. It all makes the vast supermarket experience – and system – seem all the more soulless. There’s certainly a homespun, inviting quality about Borough Wines. And their warm, personal approach has served them well so far. Muriel and her co-director Corinna Pyke have seen their venture grow fast since 2010 when they opened their first shop. While Muriel is from a wine background, Corinna’s was initially in the music-and-arts industry and then in urban regeneration in Hackney, and the pair met when Muriel was looking for a suitable shop location in the borough. The combination seems to work - there are now five shops and two restaurants in east London, as well as a wholesale business. The latest addition is where we meet today for a chat - their first shop in west London, in Chamberlayne Road, Kensal Rise, stocking both wine and beer. The recent launch of the shop, during which the complimentary Prosecco flowed all day, was a buzzy affair, with a reggae soundtrack and a constant flow of curious locals and

Borough Wines devotees. “It’s been really busy since we opened,” says Corinna. And the refrigerated barrels in the corner of the shop, a Borough Wines signature, have been a particularly big hit. “We call it ‘Cheers to the environment’. The shops offer their customers wine direct from the barrel with their refill system – wine is dispensed into retro-style stoppered glass bottles. As Corinna puts it: “Customers know their money is spent on the quality of wine and not on packaging.” So why Chamberlayne Road? “It’s got a spirit of independence and a sense of community we like,” says Muriel. “There are so many independent stores along here – the butcher, the fishmonger, the deli. It’s a great place to come and do your shopping. Also our location is perfect for people to pop in on their way home from work, either to buy a bottle or to catch up with a friend for a snack and a glass of wine.” The shop doubles up as a wine bar and has 15 covers, with a small menu consisting of snacks – imported from the main Borough Wines restaurant l’Entrepot – including tapenade, almonds, a variety of cheeses – Blue d’Auverne and Marbier among them – and charcuterie.

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ABSOLUTELY | PROFILE

MURIEL GREW UP SURROUNDED BY VITICULTURE AND FELT SO AT HOME IN IT THAT SHE WAS NEVER PUT OFF BY IT BEING A MALEDOMINATED WORLD With its irreverent artwork by Crawford Bryce and laid-back atmosphere, the shop is a far cry from the hushed and sometimes snooty atmosphere of most specialist wine shops. “Customers come in and they don’t feel patronised – we’re welcoming and relaxed,” says Corinna. “There’s no stuffiness or intimidation.” Informal, yes, but they take their wine very seriously indeed – from the £5.50 white or red from the barrel to the £95 Leoville Barton 2001 Bordeaux. Muriel grew up surrounded by viticulture and felt

so at home in it that she was never put off by it being a male-dominated world. And when she first came to London in the early noughties, she was struck by the “boom in gastronomie”, and in 2002 she set up a wine stall in Borough Market, initially to bring her family’s Bergerac vineyard to the attention of wine fans here. The wine business is changing, she says. “There’s a new generation of winemaker. And people are travelling so much more. Customers go abroad, try one they like, then come and talk about it. They’re not intimidated by it.” The pair are enjoying their first foray into west London, it seems. “People have been great,” says Corinna. “The customers are quite diverse - older people, young families, lots of people with dogs. Everyone’s been dropping in to check it out, the community has really embraced our independent spirit.” A customer ambles in with her dog, who promptly helps himself to a slurp of water from the dog bowl in the corner. “We want everyone to feel at home.” boroughwines.co.uk

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The Kindergartens are delighted to announce that they are opening two new nursery schools in Holland Park, W14 and Aubrey Walk, W8. These will be sister nurseries to their highly successful Pooh Corner Kindergarten in SW7. The new kindergartens will offer a very exciting and unrivalled education. Morning places are available now.

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ABSOLUTELY | K IDS

Absolutely How to keep them amused SWEET TALK

Ledbury Road's Caramel Baby and Child is having a marvellous sale this month, with all summer styles reduced at up to 40%. And while you're there, why not take advantage of the visiting hairdresser who comes in twice a week? 77 Ledbury Road, W11 caramel-shop.co.uk

SUITS YOU

Mini Rodini's mini swimwear is absolutely the cutest range imaginable. Adorned with bows and frills and even braces, these are playful and pretty pieces for the pool or beach. From £25, kidsen.co.uk 111 Chamberlayne Road NW10

FROCK S H OW New London-based childrenswear brand La Pitchoune has a fabulous line in durable dresses for little girls aged 0 to six. Launched by central St Martins graduates Loulou Bontemps and Gemma Smith, their motto is: 'there are many occasions in a girl’s early years which offer a great excuse to buy a pretty dress' – and they are delivering exactly that. Made from silk and cotton, in bright vivid hues or eye-catching prints, the range includes a special collection of frothy weddingwear as well as lots of summer party frocks. lapitchoune.com

COVER UP New editions of some of Puffin's best-loved classics are published this month, bringing 20 treasured works to life for a new audience with iconic cover images as well as new artwork. A Puffin Book, £6.99, puffin.co.uk

BUNK OFF

Nubie's new range of wooden bunk and loft-beds by Danish brand Oliver Furniture are super stylish with their child-friendly rounded edges and urban cool look. The palette of bright white and Nordic oak looks good in any interior. White bunk bed, £1,580, nubie.co.uk

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DISCOVERMORE

Embracing an innovative, modern approach whilst keeping traditional values at its core, Kew House School takes an exciting stance on 21st century education. With state-of-the-art facilities, a broad curriculum and excellent pastoral care, Kew House is a place where you would want to be â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a place of learning and

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The new independent co-educational senior school for students aged 11-18 in West London

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ABSOLUTELY | EDUCATION

MIND HOW YOU GO An ancient Buddhist meditation technique is being promoted in our classrooms to help stressed-out pupils, reports Amanda Constance

ILLUSTRATION: PHIL COUZENS

indfulness is having a moment. From stressed-out City execs to A-listers, from US Marines to MPs, it now seems that everyone is practising this ancient art that has its roots in Buddhist meditation. So much so, that an all-party parliamentary group on mindfulness was launched earlier this year. Increasing numbers of schools, particularly in the private sector, are looking at mindfulness classes, which focus on teaching students meditation and breathing techniques. The reason is clear; mindfulness has been scientifically proven as a treatment for anxiety and depression. Schools are turning to it as a useful tool at a time when there is an alarming rise in pupils suffering from significant mental health disorders. Anthony Seldon, the pioneering head of Wellington College, is a

passionate advocate of mindfulness. Seldon has introduced two-minute ‘stillness periods’ for pupils at Wellington, while teenagers in Years 9 and 10 have a timetabled weekly mindfulness session. From September, both Wellington College and Wellington Academy will be committing to mindfulness, with teachers being offered an eight-week course developed by Professor Mark Williams of Oxford University. “With the decline in religious assemblies, the chance to be quiet and reflect during the school day is being lost at a time when it is needed more than ever, as young people experience increasingly frantic pressure in their lives,” says Seldon. So just what is it? Essentially, mindfulness is a meditation technique – a way of calming and connecting yourself by responding to your immediate surroundings and shutting out negative thoughts. At its most basic, it involves being still, closing your eyes and paying attention to your breath. When your mind wanders, you bring it back. It

is about learning to pay attention to the now, not worrying about what has happened, or might happen. Of course, mindfulness has been around for millennia but it has only been rigorously researched in the past few decades. It was the work of American doctor Jon Kabat-Zinn in the 1970s that pioneered the use of mediation to help patients with chronic pain. This prompted others to research the wider effects of mindfulness on depression and since 2004, mindfulness has been recommended as a treatment on the NHS. The idea of taking mindfulness into schools has been led in the UK by the Mindfulness in Schools Project, founded by two teachers in 2007: Richard Burnett is a teacher and housemaster at Tonbridge School, the first UK school to include mindfulness in its curriculum for all 13-14 year-olds, while co-founder Chris Cullen was head of pastoral care at Hampton School and now teaches mindfulness at Kids Company and the Guildhall School of Music & Drama. Burnett and Cullen had experienced the benefits of mindfulness themselves and wanted to bring it into the classroom. The result is a nine-lesson course called .b – pronounced ‘dot-be’ – shorthand for ‘Stop, Breathe and Be!’ which

MINDFULNESS HAS BEEN PROVEN TO BE MORE EFFECTIVE THAN ANTIDEPRESSANTS is already being taken up by many of our schools. Independent schools in London which run the .b programme include Francis Holland, South Hampstead High School, Hampton School, Queen’s Gate and Thomas’s London Day School. Earlier this year, schools minister David Laws indicated that the government were looking at rolling out mindfulness courses for schools in the state sector to help improve pupil wellbeing. Seldon puts it even more simply: “Every school in Britain could begin this journey back to sanity and self-control by introducing two minutes of stillness every day.” mindfulnessinschools.org

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ABSOLUTELY | FOOD & TR AV EL

Seasonal SPECIAL

Tomatoes are at their best at this time of year â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ripe and full of flavour. But take advice from the experts and never store them in the fridge. It ruins the flavour. britishtomatoes.co.uk

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ROSE AND ALMOND CAKE his delightfully light, fragrant cake is made with ground almonds, scented with rose and decorated with sugar-crusted rose petals – perfect for a summery afternoon tea. Make sure you buy unsprayed rose petals and be as lavish as you like with the decoration. T

Serves 12 • 125g plain flour, plus extra for dusting • 6 large eggs • 175g caster sugar, plus extra for the rose petals • 50g ground almonds • 1 tsp rose water • 40g unsalted butter, melted and cooled • a little vegetable oil, for greasing For the icing and decoration • 1 egg white fresh, unsprayed rose petals • 100g icing sugar • ½ tbsp rose water • edible pink food colouring Method

History in the

B A K ING A NEW BOOK OF CAKE RECIPES IS INSPIRED BY LONDON’S ROYAL PALACES. HERE ARE THE KENSINGTON PALACE FAVOURITES

Preheat the oven to 180°C/gas 4. Brush the inside and rim of a 24cm round ring tin with vegetable oil. Dust with flour, then shake out any excess. Whisk the eggs and sugar together in a large bowl until the mixture is thick and moussey and has doubled in volume. Sift over the flour and ground almonds then carefully pour the rose water and melted butter around the edge. Fold everything together gently using a large metal spoon, making sure that all the flour has been incorporated. Spoon into the prepared tin and bake in the oven for 25–30 minutes until the top springs back lightly when pressed. Allow the cake to cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then gently ease the edge of it away from the tin. Turn out on to a wire rack and allow to cool completely. Lightly beat the egg white in a small bowl until frothy then use to brush over each rose petal. Dust with caster sugar. For the icing, mix together the icing sugar, rose water and around 2 teaspoons of water. Stir until smooth. Add a drop of pink food colouring and stir until it’s the shade you desire. Drizzle over the cake. Decorate with the rose petals and allow to set before serving in slices.

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ABSOLUTELY | FOOD & TR AV EL

ORANGE BISCUITS WITH CHOCOLATE CHIPS ark chocolate is paired with its tried and trusted partner, orange, to make a lovely rounded little biscuit that’s perfect at any time of the day. It’s important to plump for a dark chocolate with a high cocoa percentage, though, to make sure the biscuits aren’t too sweet.

KENSINGTON PALACE

Given its situation in the heart of central London, it’s hard to imagine that where Kensington Palace stands today was once a remote village. illiam III and Mary II (1689– 1702) bought what was then Nottingham House in 1689 to provide them with a retreat from the ‘grime’ of Whitehall Palace. Within weeks, Sir Christopher Wren had been appointed to set about improving the house, transforming it into a series of grand rooms–the State Apartments; a suitable setting for the royal court. And so began Kensington’s life as a royal residence. Scenes of love, loss, happiness and heartbreak have played out within Kensington’s walls. Its period of prominence during the reign of George II and Queen Caroline saw it sparkling and humming with the sounds of laughter and lavish entertainment. It was here that the young Princess, later Queen, Victoria was brought up, educated under the strict ‘Kensington System’ and where she rode her pony Rosie in the park. More famously, it is where she first set eyes upon her beloved Albert. In more recent times, it has been the birthplace and home of future monarchs. Diana lived here until her death in 1997; both Princes William and Harry, spent their formative years here; and William has returned to live here with Catherine and their son George. For despite all its grandeur, exquisite décor and spaces open to the public, part of Kensington Palace is still a royal home.

Makes around 25–30 • 125g unsalted butter, softened • 50g golden granulated sugar • 50g soft light brown sugar • 1 medium egg, beaten • ½ tsp vanilla extract • a good pinch of salt • 175g plain flour • grated zest of 1 orange • 75g dark chocolate (70 per cent cocoa solids), roughly chopped or use chocolate chips

Method

Preheat the oven to 190°C/gas 5. Line two baking sheets with baking parchment. Put the butter and the sugars into a large bowl and cream together using an electric hand whisk. Quickly whisk in the egg, vanilla extract and salt, scraping down the sides of the bowl. Add the flour, orange zest and chocolate and fold together using a wooden spoon to make a soft dough. Take teaspoonfuls of the mixture and roll them into rounds. Place on the baking sheet and flatten slightly. Bake in the oven for around 15 minutes, until just golden round the edges. Store in an airtight tin for up to five days.

Tea Fit for a Queen by Historic Royal Palaces (Ebury Press, hardback £10) All food photography: Jan Baldwin

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| FOOD | XXXXXXX ABSOLUTELY ABSOLUTELY & TR AV EL

food NOTES Absolutely the best edibles in town

PALAZZO POLPO

PRETTY TREATS Just opened in Holland Street is Anges de Sucre, serving up serving up a delightful menu of pillow-soft marshmallows, jewel-like macarons and other indulgent treats. With the feel of a bijou boutique, it’s a colourful (and very girlie) haven. Macaron flavours include damask rose, earl grey, Amalfi citron and lavender fields, or simply stay and eat them yourself. 1 Holland Street, W8; angesdesucre.com

Polpo has finally opened in Notting Hill Gate and David Beckham has already been spotted dining there with baby Harper. Nobody has a bad word to say about the place, though Absolutely has yet to bag a table… watch this space for our review next month. 126-128 Notting Hill Gate, W11 020 7229 3283

LOVE THE LOAF

LUNCH IN A BOX otting Hill-based Potage will deliver healthy and tasty organic lunch or dinner dishes to your home or office from Monday to Friday. It’s a simple idea and the menu is small and changing. We tried a delicious salad of salmon, edamame and quinoa with mixed sprouts as well as a simple raw salad and a broad bean, orecchiette and ricotta salad, and all were satisfying, blindingly fresh and bursting with energy and flavor. Side orders include slices of brie, pots of pesto and brownies, while there are hot options designed to be heated up on arrival too. Potage is certainly worth a pop.

Paul Bakery has launched the impressive 2kg artisan loaf, for large families or simply the very hungry, which comes in a special sac a pain to keep them fresh. Choose between Pain de Campagne or Pain Ancien. 82A Holland Park Avenue W11, paul-uk.com

potage.co.uk

50% OFF AT NEW TOM'S! Everybody knows that the best breakfast in Notting Hill is to be had at New Tom’s in Westbourne Grove – and now they’re offering readers of Absolutely a special deal. Bring in the magazine for breakfast on Wednesday to Friday between now and the start of October and you’ll receive 50% off. It’s true. Now don’t all rush at once. 226 Westbourne Grove, W11 020 7243 3341

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MEXICAN WAVE Portobello Road's Santo is a foodie destination with a serious heritage, discovers Hugo Hunter

anto’s outdoor tables spill out onto Portobello, the inviting cocktails and the Mexican dishes drawing you in. If that doesn’t catch your attention then the evening sounds of salsa will. It’s a warm and inviting atmosphere that is reflected in the informal decor and relatively low number of covers. My companion and I take our seat in the dimly lit interior as candles are whisked onto our tables, a strawberry margarita for her and a signature Santo margarita with cardamom and chilli for me. The tequila in the stiff drink takes you to Mexico as you look over the menu. First comes the ceviche de Guadalajara made with sea bass. Being a ceviche fanatic, I’m really excited. The fish is cured by the lime juice and combined with the chilli and tomato juice its flavour is not covered up at all; the fish

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in brief...

The Santo story is succulent and the flavours delicate and subtle. To accompany this there’s a fresh fish taco and a fantastic crunchy sea bass scratching (chicharrón de pescado). To follow is queso fundido (melted Oaxaca cheese made in England) with a chilorio topping (extremely soft slow-cooked pork). Then the tacos filled with such delicacies as pork belly and caramelised onion, another with ox cheek (this one’s not found in Mexico), lamb with coriander and chilli, and chicken slow cooked in chipotle. You can choose the strength of chilli and

SMOKY AND DELICIOUS MEZCALS HELP SMOOTH THE TRANSITION FROM DINNER TO LATIN SALSA we go for medium, which is hot enough. But the coriander, fresh onion and lovingly cooked meat complement each other perfectly with a squeeze of lime on top. For pudding we manage a mole grapefruit cake with ice cream; mole is traditionally a savoury sauce made from chilli, pepper and other spices and dried fruit. The resulting creation is almost like an English fruitcake and is curiously tasty. Then there’s a selection of mezcales to drink – the family of spirit to which tequila belongs.

RECIPE

Ceviche Guadalajara Ingredients • 1 filet Sea bass (boned) • 20gr salt • 40gr sugar • Juice of: 1/2 lime • 1 lemon • 1small orange • 1 tsp arbol chillie sauce • Pinch of flake sea salt • Splash Maggie sauce • 1 tsp of extra Virgin olive oil Garnish • 1 shallot • 1 radish • Black onion seed Preparation

Mix salt and sugar and cover the fish with it, then leave in the fridge for three hours to cure. Wash the fish very well and pat dry, then fillet in thin flake-like slices. In a bowl, mix the citric juices and season with the rest of ingredients. Cut the shallot in julienne and slice the radish thinly. Toss the fish flakes in the citric sauce and serve with the garnish.

They are smoky and delicious and help make the transition from the delicious food to the Latin salsa smooth. The stand out one for me is the organic Chichicapa, made by a man on his donkey in Oaxaca. And there is a story behind each of the dishes; a huge amount of research and care goes into making the final product at Santo very special. SANTO 299 Portobello Road, W10 020 8968 4590; santovillage.com

or the Mexican brothers Fernando (Chef-Patron) and Carlos (Head Barman) De La Cruz, Santo is not just their business, but is also their expression of how they live. It is the culmination of their years of experience travelling the globe on a culinary quest during which Fernando has worked in kitchens across the world, at times earning money picking apples, planting sugarcane, and diving for sea cucumbers, and also spending a period eating only raw vegetables while living with an aboriginal tribe in Australia. In short, these experiences add up to much more than just a commercial venture. Santo has been here for six years and has spent that time honing its personal, family approach to perfection. Fernando tells me that he dedicates much of his time and resources to research; this means that he takes his staff out to eat in exquisite restaurants to experience new flavours, atmospheres, styles, and service. I ask Fernando what his company ethos is. “We are a family-run business and we have constructed a place where our staff members are happy to work. That’s the way we live. What am I doing here? I put together years of experience, conceived with traditional Mexican food and modern culinary techniques... That’s why we are as we are.”

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Acid

CASUALTY KELLY HOPPEN’S DAUGHTER NATASHA CORRETT IS A CHEF AND ENTREPRENEUR WHOSE NEW BOOK HONESTLY HEALTHY FOR LIFE PROMOTES AN ALKALINE-ONLY DIET. CAMILLA DAVIES MEETS HER

tried everything when I was younger and nothing really ever made me feel good,” Natasha explains. “When I tried going alkaline for the first time it felt like a revelation; it wasn’t ever a diet, it was a lifestyle, and that’s what we feel like we’ve created now, a lifestyle where people can feel fantastic all the time.” It was a trip to the chiropractor that opened Natasha’s eyes to the differences between acidic and alkaline eating. Being informed that her back was harbouring the signs of an acidic diet, she soon became an expert in all things alkaline. “I didn’t know what it meant when I was told I was acidic. But looking into it I realised that everything from sugar to processed food, to wheat, dairy, animal produce, is all very acid-forming.” “When you put your body through certain amounts of stress, be it through dieting, work or emotional, your body gets into an acidic state, and that’s what had happened to me.” Natasha explains. Foods like apricot, almonds, cinnamon,

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broccoli, ginger and cabbage were on the agenda, and Natasha was encouraged to avoid foods of an acidic quality, including spaghetti, spelt, kidney beans, bacon, lentils and beef, at least 70% of the time. One thing that might dissuade potential converts to the cause is the lack of meat in an alkaline diet. Is there room for a little leeway here? “In general, no, because meat is acid-forming. However if you feel like you need to, stick to organic chicken and ethically sourced white fish. But definitely no to any red meat.” And for those who struggle to cut everything out at once? “People have massive problems when they suddenly just cut everything out of their lives. Make small changes that make small differences to your health.” So if bread is your weakness? “Go from white to brown, then from brown to spelt then from spelt to gluten-free bread and you won’t realise such a change and you’ll want less and less.”

Natasha is also embracing new research which maintains that we should up our fruit and vegetable intake dramatically. “A lot of people don’t actually understand that eating a healthy variety of fruit and vegetables can help us ward off diseases like cancer. I think it’s fantastic that scientists are finally starting to shout about it, that fruit and vegetables and fresh produce is going to keep you healthy – it’s not pills and the potions, it’s all about prevention, not cure.” “I think the more the better, and don’t try to get your portions through fruit juice. It’s about proper vegetables. Try to keep fruit down to a minimum because it turns acidic in your body. Green and leafy, that’s the main thing." Natasha’s own miracle fruit is the lemon, “because it’s alkaline and it makes everything taste amazing.” And when it comes to vegetables, she’s quick to champion spinach. “It’s so versatile, you can put it into smoothies, turn

WHEN I TRIED GOING ALKALINE FOR THE FIRST TIME IT FELT LIKE A REVELATION; IT WASN’T EVER A DIET, IT WAS A LIFESTYLE it into a puree, you can have it with salad, you can steam it, you can do so much with spinach. It’s so high in iron, especially for vegetarians.” So take heed; add lemon and spinach to your diet, and even guilty pleasures can be healthy if you make the effort. “With my new book, I’m addressing the idea that everything can have a healthy alternative. It may still contain sugar but it’s free of refined sugar, it’s gluten-free, and dairy free. I’ve done everything from brownies, to cookies, to jelly and toffee popcorn. There’s no stopping once you start playing with ingredients - you can create pretty much everything.”

Natasha Corrett and Vicky Edgson’s alkaline cookbook, Honestly Healthy for Life, is published by Jacqui Small, £25.00.

CRUNCHY TOFFEE POPCORN Serves 4 • 1 tbsp sunflower oil • 5 tbsp corn kernels • 75g coconut palm sugar • 160g agave syrup • 1 tbsp vegan butter • a pinch of Himalayan pink salt Method Preheat the oven to 100°C/212°F and line a baking tray with baking parchment. Heat the sunflower oil in a large lidded pan, add the corn kernels, replace the lid and leave the corn to pop over a medium heat. Transfer the popcorn to a large mixing bowl. Now make the caramel. Put a non-stick pan on a medium heat and add the coconut palm sugar and agave syrup. Once the coconut palm sugar has dissolved into the agave, add the butter and salt to it to make it a little creamier. This entire process should take about 5–7 minutes. Pour the caramel over the popcorn and mix well, ensuring that all the popcorn is coated. Lay the caramel-coated popcorn on the prepared baking tray and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes to dry out. Keep a close eye on it, to make sure it does not burn. Serve in a large bowl for everyone to share or make up some fun paper cones.

NUTRITIONAL NUGGET Home-made popcorn is packed with cancer-preventing polyphenols – and fibre too.

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Ukai (oo-kaaee), our name, is inspired by the traditional method of river fishing practiced for some 1,300 years using Cormorant birds to catch sweetfish. Due to interest, many of its various Japanese inspired products including flower teas (which blossoms in front

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of you eyes), and a variety of stylish tableware are now available to be purchased. Ultimately, Ukai’s passion is sushi. With the simplest recipe; the freshest sustainable ﬁsh, the highest quality of ingredients and a trained and loving chef.

18/03/2014 09:58

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ST MAWES RETREATS Cornwall

THE HOUSE Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Roseland Peninsula, Dreamcatchers is one of five luxurious self-catering St Mawes Retreats properties on the Cornish coast. Only 200 yards from the water, this place really is all about the sea views – the huge glass doors of the open plan kitchen and living room offer spectacular panoramas across the blue waters of the bay. Downstairs, two of the four deluxe double bedrooms also boast this view, which can be enjoyed from the bubbles of your extravagant freestanding roll-top bath looking out to sea. Bright, modern and brand-spanking new, Dreamcatchers has a real family focus, boasting its own playroom, a cupboard full of cute dressing-up costumes and a separate family room complete with wifi and piles of the latest DVD releases – plenty to keep you entertained if the weather turns sour.

WORDS GEORGIE LANE-GODFREY

THE EXTRAS With a bespoke concierge service on offer, St Mawes Retreats are all about going that extra mile. Expect a chilled bottle of champagne upon arrival as well as freshly baked scones and a breakfast box filled with local produce. Private spa treatments can also be arranged as well as childcare, boat charters and a range of activities, from trips to the world-renowned Eden Project to private classes from an art teacher. Nothing is too much trouble. We recommend booking a visit from The Chef on the Roseland (thechefontheroseland.co.uk), Haydn Treneary, who will come to Dreamcatchers and cook a luxurious three-course meal for you complete with wine, canapés and home-made bread. Expect Michelin-quality dishes without having to move a muscle.

T H E L O C AT I O N Trundle two minutes down the hill, past the village church, and you’ll find yourself on the seafront in the middle of St Mawes. Lacking the glitz and glamour of some of its more highprofile neighbours, St Mawes still retains a quaint bygone charm. Walk along Marine Parade and you’ll find the local bakery serving freshly baked authentic Cornish pasties, a small arcade of shops peddling local pottery and delicacies (think clotted cream fudge and shortbread) and several pubs with a view of the trawlers and crabbing boats bobbing on the tide. In the other direction lies St Mawes Castle, a stony legacy of Henry VIII

dating back to 1538, worth visiting mainly for its uninterrupted views across the bay. Continue past the castle and carry on round the coast, walking through cow-filled fields and down into secluded coves along the beach for a taste of the real Cornwall.

Prices at Dreamcatchers start from £1,275 for guests staying one week and £950 for up to 4 guests staying in low season for a 3-night weekend break. To make a booking call 0800 088 6622 or visit stmawesretreats.co.uk

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The

SPA GUIDE 2014

Only have a weekend to spare? never fear – relaxation isn’t far away. welcome to Absolutely’s guide to the best spas in the uk

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BEST FOR RURAL RETREATS

take in the breathtaking views across the mountainous countryside of north Wales and the waters and wind farms of the Irish Sea. Back in Bodysgallen, wooden staircases, antique furniture and crackling wood fires combine with delicious food and incredibly comfortable bedrooms to give the hotel a warm, traditional feel. The spa, located in an airy, spacious building (formerly the stables) has a more modern aesthetic, with neutral decor perfectly suited to its Welsh surroundings – no garish, faux orientalism here. The spa is also the first in the UK to offer Environ treatments, using a machine that produces a mild electric current to help active ingredients, such as Vitamin A, Vitamin C and other anti-oxidants, penetrate more deeply into the skin. The Environ Active Vitamin treatment in particular is

BODYSGALLEN HALL HOTEL & SPA Wales

by Catherine Hales

et in the midst of 200 acres of gardens, Bodysgallen Hall is a sympathetically restored 17th century Historic House Hotel with glorious gardens, a top notch spa and views that stretch all the way to Conwy Castle, Snowdonia National Park and beyond. The hotel is located a stones throw from the virtually untouched seaside town of Llandudno, whose rural charm and quaint architecture make it well worth a visit. For those unafraid of sheer drops and winding roads, visitors can also drive up the cliffs and

BEST FOR WEIGHT LOSS

LUCKNAM PARK HOTEL & SPA Wiltshire

by Emma J Page

nspired by its natural surroundings, the spa at Lucknam Park effortlessly combines a holistic approach with modern innovation. Far-reaching views of the kitchen gardens, an outdoor saltwater plunge pool and an elegant terrace harness the power of nature, while four thermal cabins, nine treatment rooms, a vast indoor pool and a new Well-being House promise to nourish mind, body and soul. A comprehensive approach means that guests can choose tailor-made treatments that deliver specific results, from anti-

BEST FOR YOGA BREAKS

YOGA RETREAT AT OCKENDEN MANOR West Sussex by Leo Bear

ckenden Manor’s yoga retreats are enough to make Gwyneth pack up her north London home and move to the South Downs. With a roster of smoothies, Ila treatments, flotation therapy, reflexology and sun salutations, they might be at the gentler end of the ‘retreat’ spectrum, but throw in a dash of Nordic walking and your glutes will know about it. The spa itself is modern and magnificent: a rusted-aluminium glass box surrounded by cow-speckled pastures – not what you’d expect in the sleepy Tudor village of Cuckfield. On the treatment side, Ila

ageing facials courtesy of high performance brands Anne Sémonin and Carita, to the cocooning effects of an organic massage using all-natural Ila products. Look out for a series of inspiring two-day courses in conjunction with visiting consultants, including expert nutritionist Katie Sheen, who’ll shine a friendly light on your diet and advise how to optimize it during an invaluable one-to-one session. On day two, you can bring her dietary advice to life in a hands-on cookery class under the inventive eye of chef Hrishikesh Desai. Covering topics from Happiness and Vitality to Purity and Mindful Eating, there’s no doubt that revitalised visitors will leave with a spring in their step. Two-day Well-Being retreat, £695 per person, including overnight accommodation, breakfast lunch and supper. Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa, 01225 742777, lucknampark.co.uk

and Ren products predominate, and a vast indoor/outdoor pool (a favourite with Ralph Fiennes) lies at its core. Chief yogi Sal Jefferies is in charge of the retreat itineraries designed for small groups of no more than 10. A soft-spoken twinkly-eyed soul with world-class flexibility, he’s been practising Vinyasa-Flow yoga for more than ten years, and has quite a following. He encourages people to take it slow, and beginners are more than welcome. Save time for a chat after yoga sessions – Sal’s an expert on everything from sleep patterns to mind-mapping. Beyond the spa, Ockenden Manor comprises an Elizabethan manor house boasting 28 rooms and a Michelin-star dining room (although retreat guests are assigned suites within the spa building itself ). Miranda Carminger, who runs Ockenden Manor with her husband Pontus,

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great for Londoners, designed specifically to stimulate collagen, rehydrate and reduce redness, fine lines and ravages of pollution. The treatment involves an application of moisturiser to the face the with aid of the electric current and soundwaves, followed by a very cold heavy gel mask, which then sets, sealing in the product. The current is used again, along with a hand held roller to aid deep absorption. Throughout the process high squeaks can be heard and a sensation of mild pinpricks is felt, which, although not painful, isn’t necessarily relaxing – more of what you’d call ‘an active treatment’. The result? Very good – the redness was reduced in my cheeks and my skin was left plumped and rehydrated. Active Vitamin Treatment (3 areas) 1 hour, £60; bodysgallen.com

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CHEWTON GLEN HAMPSHIRE Detox in the skies in one of the romantic treehouses set in the beautiful woodlands of this country house hotel and spa. Treatments can be taken in the luxurious spa (which boasts Europe’s largest hydrotherapy pool) or in the privacy of your own rooms. From £325 a night; chewtonglen.com

BEST FOR RELAXATION

HOUSE SPA AT DORMY HOUSE Cotswolds by Leo Bear

merging from a £10m facelift, this charming 17th-century farmhouse hotel now packs an impressive spa punch. Two years in the planning, the groundwork has paid off: everything from the deeply comfy massage beds to the posttreatment sorbets shout ‘indulgence’. At the heart of the spa lies a generous relaxing-areacum-café dominated by a towering funnelshaped fireplace. Chess sets and cashmere throws add to the informal atmosphere, while a selection of ‘posh nibbles’ from the pastry chef ensure spa-goers don’t go hungry. Sticking to a British theme, treatments are by Temple Spa (a family-owned English brand), and for a touch of glamour, there’s an ultra-girly Veuve Clicquot nail bar. Therapists are trained by Pure Massage (so expect the best) and for something a bit different, there’s Rasul Mud therapy or an enriching ‘Mediterranean marinade’ facial available. One of the signature treatments is the ‘Silent Night Lavender Sleep’, which consists of two and a half hours of massage, scrubbing and foot rubbing, certain to settle even the most jittery of souls. I roadtested the lavender sauna, but it didn’t have quite as much lavender in the air as I would have liked. The salt-infused steam room and outdoor hydrotherapy pool, on the other hand, were fantastic. If you’re staying the night, expect to be spoilt rotten. Rooms are homely yet hi-tech – a tablet allows you to order fresh milk at the touch of a button – whilst in the communal areas, original flagstone floors, wood paneling and exposed stone hearths come together to create a most welcoming rural retreat. My favourite spot was the chic blue lounge just off the lobby – the perfect blend of Soho House meets mummy’s living room.

GILPIN LAKE HOUSE LAKE DISTRICT Overlooking its own private lake, the Jetty Spa Trail incorporates 5 hours of pure indulgence, starting with a bespoke aromatherapy blend consultation, a dip in the pool, a sauna and body scrub, a blissful massage, afternoon tea in the cosy little boathouse and a spell in the outdoor hot tub with a glass of champagne. The Jetty Spa Trail, £300 for two people; thegilpin.co.uk

has a discernable passion for interior design. Rumour has it she even has a room in her house dedicated to mood boarding – and we can believe it; the wallpaper in the drawing room had us stroking the walls and purring. Carminger is also the brains behind the spa, so it comes as no surprise that the spa suites are airy and contemporary with plenty of attention to detail. Overall, Ockenden Manor’s yoga retreats are well conceived and hugely enjoyable. You’re certain to come away feeling pampered and clearer headed. Our only quibble is the scheduled 9pm dinner times, which made rising for early morning yoga a bit of a challenge. Places on three-day yoga retreats are available to book at Ockenden Manor this July, September and November; hshotels.co.uk

THE SCARLET CORNWALL Capturing the essence of the coast, The Scarlet’s spa offers facials administered with wild-crafted herbs and hot steamed poultices, and a reed-filtered natural clifftop outdoor pool, with nearby hot tubs providing the perfect spot from which to storm and cloud-gaze. From £285 a night; scarlethotel.co.uk

Silent Night Lavender Sleep treatment (£195); dormyhouse.co.uk

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BEST FOR CITY ESCAPES

BEST FOR THE ECO-CONSCIOUS

GRAYSHOTT SPA

TITANIC SPA

by Georgie Lane-Godfrey

by Alexandra Jones

ax intrantibus. Salus exeuntibus. reads the motto engraved above the entrance at Grayshott – ‘Peace on arrival. Health on departure.’ It’s a statement which really does ring true. Secluded and peaceful, Grayshott lies in the heart of the Surrey countryside, a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of London, yet just an hour’s drive down the A3. A historic country house that was once the home of Victorian Poet Laureate Lord Alfred Tennyson, Grayshott has been showered with awards over the fifty years it has been in business. Admittedly the rooms feel a bit dated, but we can pretty much guarantee you’ll spend little enough time indoors; you only have to look out of the window to yearn to be outside. Set amongst 47 acres of beautiful gardens and adjoining over 700 acres of National Trust woodland, it’s a haven for walkers and cyclists – bikes are available to hire from reception. The spa itself has a real health focus and their celebrated 7 Day Regime centres on the digestive system, getting back in shape so that your body can restore, renew and cleanse. But all the usual high-end treatments are also on offer, as well as a few off-beat options too. One of which is the Equilibrium Therapy, a slow, rhythmic massage of the body, face and scalp designed to release negative emotions and give relaxation and peace. Highly recommended

t is worth noting from the start Titanic Spa’s sublime setting, on the edge of the Pennines. Long after your patience for being wrapped, plucked and primped has worn thin, the beauty of Linthwaite and the views of the surrounding countryside from the riverside terrace will keep you entertained. It is truly idyllic. To the ‘UK’s first eco-spa,’ then. Measures have been taken to reduce Titanic’s carbon footprint, including making the building ‘green’ (electricity, for example, is derived from solar roof panels) and putting in place systems which have the lowest possible impact on the environment. As its name might suggest, the spa is one of epic

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Yorkshire

for those escaping the city, it’s so relaxing that you’ll struggle to stay awake. Spa treatments aside, it’s the food here which really caught our attention. Despite the obvious focus on digestive health, dishes still feel indulgent. Buffet style breakfasts and lunches let you pick and choose from the range of dairy and grain free food, whilst à la carte dinners serve healthy spins on firm favourites – we even had apple strudel for dessert! A great option for gourmands looking to loosen their waistbands. Equilibrium therapy, £85; grayshottspa.com

proportions, offering a dizzying array of treatments. It is also wildly popular. Combined, these things can, at times, make the experience less than relaxing. It attracts groups and caters well to them, but you might feel a little outnumbered if you go, as I did, for a quiet weekend with just one other person. The treatments themselves do make up for that: the therapists are bright, friendly and adept at creating a serene environment. The ‘beauty’ treatments were more accomplished than the massages: we sampled the Exotic Lime and Ginger Salt Glow and felt suitably squeaky-clean afterwards. The massages didn’t have quite the same impact; billed as ‘deep tissue’, mine felt a little limp. Titanic is perfect for a stylish, robe swaddled, hen weekend. You’ll score extra points for your ecoawareness. Exotic Lime and Ginger Salt Glow, £50; titanicspa.co.uk

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Sacrifice never tasted sweeter.

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N LYSA DER

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LOOKING AFTER

YOUR HOME

AND OUR WORLD

ECO-FRIENDLY CLEANING COMPANY

DOMESTIC CLEANING (FROM £10.50)

SPRING CLEANING END OF TENANCIES CARPET CLEANING UV ANTI-ALLERGY CLEANING (EXCLUSIVE SERVICE)

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JULY 2014

ABSOLUTELY

PROPERTY

Lansdowne Crescent W11 A large Grade II listed Victorian house on the terraced outer side of this elegant crescent. With its own private terrace leading directly onto communal gardens this seven bedroom house has superb entertaining space and is wonderfully bright, being south facing, and is beautifully presented.

ÂŁ8,350,000 Freehold Holland Park & Notting Hill | 020 7371 1111 | gareth.jones@carterjonas.co.uk

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The Negotiator Awards 2013 (for the 2nd year running!)

Sunday Times Estate Agency of the Year 2013 - Gold (for the 2nd year running!)

Community Champion of the Year

Best London Estate Agency

The Negotiator Awards 2013 - Silver

Sunday Times Estate Agency of the Year 2013 (Medium) - Gold (for the 4th year running!)

Wilby Mews W11 ÂŁ2,300,000 Tucked away in this delightful quiet mews just off Ladbroke Road with access to Ladbroke Square Gardens, this stunning mews house is presented in superb decorative order throughout. The accommodation includes a wonderful open plan reception room with high pitched ceilings, a fully integrated kitchen and a smartly designed mezzanine level. The bedroom accommodation comprises a large master bedroom with a beautifully ďŹ nished en suite bathroom, a second double bedroom and a bathroom. Freehold. EPC=E. Sole Agents.

NOTTING HILL: 020 7605 6890 sales.hol@marshandparsons.co.uk

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SALES

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Highlever Road W10 £1,950,000 This delightful Edwardian property retains a wealth of original features and period charm. The accommodation is spacious throughout, with generous entertaining space featuring a double reception room and an extended kitchen/dining room leading out to the garden. The accommodation further comprises an impressive master bedroom, four further family bedrooms, two bathrooms and a decked terrace accessed from the ﬁrst ﬂoor. Freehold. EPC=D. Joint Sole Agent.

NORTH KENSINGTON: 020 7313 8350 sales.nkn@marshandparsons.co.uk

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Local know-how. Better results. Askew Road

Battersea

Camden

Earls Court

Hammersmith

Little Venice

Notting Hill

Balham

Bishops Park

Chelsea

East Sheen

Holland Park

Marylebone

Pimlico & Westminster

Barnes

Brook Green

Clapham

Fulham

Kensington

North Kensington

South Kensington

Ladbroke Terrace W11 ÂŁ1,495,000 This rarely available two-bedroom raised ground ďŹ&#x201A;oor apartment is located on beautiful Victorian terrace in a prime Notting Hill location. Boasting high ceilings throughout, the accommodation offers excellent entertaining space with lovely period features including original shutters and large bay windows. There is a well appointed contemporary kitchen, two double bedrooms, excellent storage space and two bathrooms (one en suite). Share of Freehold. EPC=D. Sole Agents.

NOTTING HILL: 020 7605 6890 sales.hol@marshandparsons.co.uk

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LETTINGS

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

Princedale Road W11 £2,100 per week Having been completely re-built to the highest of standards, this spectacular house comprises beautifully designed reception space occupying the entire ground floor and a magnificent contemporary staircase that leads down to a modern fully fitted kitchen/dining room. The master bedroom, with en suite bathroom, occupies the entire first floor of the house, while the accommodation additionaly includes three further double bedrooms and a family bathroom. EPC=B

HOLLAND PARK: 020 7605 6890 lest.hol@marshandparsons.co.uk

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Offices throughout the UK

CARTERJONAS.CO.UK To view The Collection 2013/14, simply visit cjview.me/thecollection

Bulle

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Bullet point

NOTTING HILL ORME SQUARE W2 A substantial Grade II listed residence comprising main house and coach house with a total of approximately 8,833 sq ft. The house has wonderful lateral space being around 70ft wide and it has off street parking for five cars plus a paved garden. 5 reception rooms

Kitchen

12 bedrooms

5 bathrooms

Garden

Communal gardens

Private parking

GUIDE PRICE ÂŁ17,000,000

Holland Park & Notting Hill 020 7371 1111 | gareth.jones@carterjonas.co.uk Hyde Park & Bayswater 020 7402 1552 | tim.macpherson@carterjonas.co.uk

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Offices throughout the UK

CARTERJONAS.CO.UK To view The Collection 2013/14, simply visit cjview.me/thecollection

Bullet point

HOLLAND PARK LANSDOWNE CRESCENT, W11 A large Grade II listed Victorian house on the terraced outer side of this elegant crescent. With its own private terrace leading directly onto communal gardens this house has superb entertaining space and is wonderfully bright. 3 reception rooms

7 bedrooms

4 bathrooms

GUIDE PRICE ÂŁ8,350,000

Holland Park & Notting Hill 020 7371 1111 gareth.jones@carterjonas.co.uk

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Patio

Terrace

Communal gardens THIS PROPERTY AT YOUR FINGERTIPS ON MOBILE OR DESKTOP SIMPLY VISIT URL: cjview.me/ah26

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Bullet point

HOLLAND PARK VICTORIA ROAD W8 A superb and imposing end of terrace semi-detached house benefitting from light on three sides with a dramatic double height former artist’s studio. The house comprises approximately 4,739 sq ft and has a paved garden with two further terraces. 4 reception rooms n Kitchen Energy efficiency: Band E

6 bedrooms

5 bathrooms

Garden

Roof terrace THIS PROPERTY AT YOUR FINGERTIPS ON MOBILE OR DESKTOP

GUIDE PRICE £13,500,000 Holland Park & Notting Hill 020 7371 1111 gareth.jones@carterjonas.co.uk

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Joint Agent: Savills Kensington 0207 535 3300

SIMPLY VISIT URL: cjview.me/ah27

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Queensdale Road, W11

An outstanding and unusually wide five bedroom, family house over just four floors with excellent entertaining space and a wonderful 40 ft garden.

ÂŁ4,750,000 Freehold

Notting Hill 020 7221 1111

Nottinghill@struttandparker.com JSA: John Wilcox & Co 020 7602 2352

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Caroline Place, W2

A wide, end of terrace, five bedroom house In this quiet culde-sac close to the park. This well proportioned house has two excellent floors of entertaining space including a large south facing patio and separate garage.

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ÂŁ4,200,000 Freehold

Notting Hill 020 7221 1111 Nottinghill@struttandparker.com

13/06/2014 12:41

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struttandparker.com

Princes Mews, W2

A stunning two bedroom mews house which has been the subject of extensive refurbishment and has an abundance of natural light due to its position and intelligent design.

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ÂŁ2,850,000 Freehold

Notting Hill 020 7221 1111 Nottinghill@struttandparker.com

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Pembridge Gardens, W2

A well-proportioned two bedroom flat within this beautiful and imposing double fronted, detached villa. With its own west facing garden, the flat further benefits from a 19’ drawing room, two bathrooms and separate kitchen.

£1,200,000 Leasehold

Notting Hill 020 7221 1111 Portobello Road, W11

A beautifully presented two bedroom flat located moments from Westbourne Grove. The flat benefits from vaulted ceilings and wonderful, bright accommodation throughout.

£1,150,000 Leasehold

Notting Hill 020 7221 1111

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Talbot Road, W2

A beautifully presented two bedroom flat on the fourth floor (entrance on the third) of this attractive period building. The property benefits from having been recently refurbished and is situated in a highly convenient and desirable location.

Sutherland Place, W2

A bright two bedroom, second and third floor (entered on the first floor) maisonette within this attractive stucco fronted building and benefiting from two wonderful roof terraces.

ÂŁ650,000 Share of Freehold

Notting Hill 020 7221 1111

ÂŁ1,550,000 Share of Freehold

Notting Hill 020 7221 1111

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Clarendon Road, W11

An outstanding and well-presented two bedroom garden flat with a wonderful 50 ft private west-facing garden.

ÂŁ1,750,000 Share of Freehold

Notting Hill 020 7221 1111

Chepstow Villas, W2

A wonderful three bedroom penthouse flat, in this highly regarded red brick mansion building. The flat has commanding, far reaching views from most of the rooms and the building benefits from having a lift and resident porterage.

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ÂŁ2,650,000 Share of Freehold

Notting Hill 020 7221 1111

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Bedford Gardens, W8

A beautifully presented five bedroom family house, with a wonderful 34 ft long south-facing garden.

ÂŁ5,250,000 Freehold

Kensington 020 7938 3666 Kensington@struttandparker.com

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Victoria Road, W8

A wonderful seven bedroom family house, with the advantage of having off-street parking, situated in this highly regarded residential street in the De Vere Conservation Area.

ÂŁ7,950,000 Freehold

Kensington 020 7938 3666 Kensington@struttandparker.com

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Warwick Gardens, W14

An outstanding six bedroom stucco fronted family house, with a wonderful 68 ft garden as well as having off-street parking for two cars.

ÂŁ6,500,000 Freehold

Kensington 020 7938 3666 Kensington@struttandparker.com

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Gloucester Walk, W8

An impressive four bedroom family house (with planning permission for a further storey), with a south-facing garden and terrace.

ÂŁ4,950,000 Freehold

Kensington 020 7938 3666 Kensington@struttandparker.com

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Palace Gate, W8

An outstanding four bedroom maisonette on the top two floors with direct lift access and a wonderful terrace.

ÂŁ4,499,000 Share of Freehold

Kensington 020 7938 3666

Kensington@struttandparker.com JSA: Knight Frank - 0207 938 4311

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Campden Hill Court, W8

A charming three bedroom flat, occupying approximately 1,419 sq ft, on the second floor (lift) of this popular portered mansion block.

ÂŁ2,250,000 Share of Freehold

Kensington 020 7938 3666 Kensington@struttandparker.com

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Kensington Court, W8

An outstanding three bedroom flat on the second floor (lift) of this popular mansion block.

ÂŁ3,950,000 Leasehold

Palace Gate, W8

A charming and well presented four bedroom upper maisonette (direct lift access) on the top two floors of an impressive stucco fronted Victorian terraced house.

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Kensington 020 7938 3666

Kensington@struttandparker.com

ÂŁ4,350,000 Share of Freehold

Kensington 020 7938 3666 Kensington@struttandparker.com

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Westbourne Park Road, Notting Hill, W2

A substantial five bedroom period family house, occupying over 2,500 sq ft, with excellent entertaining space including a wonderful ground floor conservatory with doors onto a patio garden.

£2,950 per week* Unfurnished

Notting Hill 020 7221 1111

Nottinghill.lettings@struttandparker.com

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

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Stanley Gardens, Notting Hill, W11

A meticulously renovated six bedroom house located on this sought after Notting Hill street. This property features state of the art audio/visual/ security systems and boasts direct access onto pretty communal gardens.

£6,950 per week*

Notting Hill 020 7221 1111

Nottinghill.lettings@struttandparker.com

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Blenheim Court, Lancaster Gate, W2

Rarely available to the market is this impressive and wellpresented five bedroom lateral apartment with fantastic views over Hyde Park.

£3,750 per week* Unfurnished

Notting Hill 020 7221 1111

Nottinghill.lettings@struttandparker.com

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Kensington Court Place, Kensington, W8

This Georgian three/four bedroom house is presented in excellent order and boasts well laid out, family accommodation arranged over four floors.

£2,500 per week*

Kensington Lettings 020 7938 3866 Kensington.lettings@struttandparker.com

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Campden House, Kensington, W8

An outstanding two bedroom flat, immaculately presented throughout and furnished to a high standard. The property boasts wood flooring and beautiful views over the communal gardens behind.

£1,295 per week*

Kensington Lettings 020 7938 3866 Kensington.lettings@struttandparker.com

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IN THEIR OWN

WORDS IN THEIR OWN

FAWAZ OTMANI

Senior Lettings Negotiator: Benham & Reeves Residential Lettings, Hyde Park

Photography: Rebecca Noonan

orking in property is as much about people as it is about bricks and mortar. So working as a bar manager around Europe and meeting all sorts of fascinating characters in my early 20s was great training for my career in matching people to rental properties! After University I took a gap year and worked in bars in Barcelona and Ibiza before returning to London where I worked at Trailer Happiness on the Portobello Road. And while the ability to freepour over 300 cocktails is no longer as useful as it once was, the people skills I gained during this time are invaluable. Working in a bar allows you to meet so many interesting people – customers and colleagues – and gives you an insight into different cultures and lifestyles. It was this social side of the job that has given me the people-skills needed in my lettings career where each day I meet so many different people from all walks of life – and where building a rapport is so important. I moved into lettings in 2010 when a friend recommended me for a position in the property company he was working for in Westbourne Grove. Then when Benham and Reeves Lettings had a position vacant in 2011, I jumped at the opportunity and haven’t looked back. And where better to work than in and around Notting Hill, with its elegant townhouses and tree-lined streets? This, of course, is the traditional perception of Notting Hill, but nowhere in London stands still for long and the last few years have seen quite dramatic changes. Our Sussex

Place office near Hyde Park, opened in 1995 and one of the main changes we’ve seen since then is the growth in popularity of new build developments such as the Portobello Square development in W11. These sought-after properties are adding to Notting Hill’s appeal and attracting a new ‘generation’ of tenant – young professionals whose busy, modern lifestyles are shaping the future of this part of London, seeking these shiny, contemporary homes which not so long ago were in short supply. Working in property, it’s this ever changing architectural landscape that I find so fascinating, as old and new sit happily side by side. The spacious, light-filled apartments of these new developments are the way professionals want to live now. Two thirds of our applicants are now looking for this type of property. Young professionals in particular love the ‘serviced apartment’ feel – high spec interiors, a concierge, parking space and maybe a gym. Notting Hill is popular with families and rental demand is always high. Smaller one and two bedroom properties let quickly throughout the year to affluent young professionals while the summer sees a buzz of activity from relocation agents looking for family homes for expatriate executives from the USA and Europe. We also see plenty of wealthy international students (mainly Russians and Chinese). The area is home to nationalities from across the globe and I think it’s this that gives it such a cosmopolitan feel.

020 7402 9866; brlets.co.uk

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Fitzrovia

ÂŁ825 pw Furnished

2 Bedrooms | 1 Reception | 2 Bathrooms | Period Conversion Close To Amenities & Tube | EPC - D Hyde Park 020 3417 3703 hyde@brlets.co.uk

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London’s Letting Agency

To arrange a viewing or for more information call

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

020 7319 9783

North Kensington

£395 pw Furnished

Hyde Park

£450 pw Furnished

West Kensington

Kensington

£595 pw Furnished

£650 pw Furnished

Dubai | Hong Kong | India | Malaysia | Singapore

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You may know us from walking your dog, local charity events or simply recognise a familiar face. Because many of our agents live where they work, they really understand what matters to buyers and sellers there. And because people know us, time and again we are able to sell and let properties more quickly and at a better price than anyone else.

KE ITH RI GBY D I R EC TO R

Keith doesn’t just live in the area, he has lived and breathed the neighbourhood for the last 16 years. Keith is an incurably inquisitive and sociable kind of guy, and this is invaluable when truly getting under the skin of the area. He not only knows the shops, the schools, the restaurants, and the sports facilities, he invariably knows the people who run them. You can barely walk the length of a street without bumping into someone that Keith knows. He is knowledgeable, charming and disarmingly honest. Ask anyone in the area, and they will agree that, with Keith, you’re in safe hands.

C H E L S E A 0 2 0 7 5 8 9 6 67 7 — K E N S I N G T O N 0 2 0 7 7 9 5 42 8 8 N O T T I N G H I L L 0 2 0 7 2 2 1 4 8 0 5 — L A D B R O K E G R O V E 0 2 0 7 2 2 1 0 3 3 0 — B R O O K G R E E N 0 2 0 76 0 3 51 8 1 L A N D & N E W H O M E S 0 2 0 7 3 1 3 7 7 1 1 — P R O P E R T Y M A N A G E M E N T 0 2 0 7 2 2 1 0 0 9 9 — C O M M E R C I A L 0 2 0 7 9 8 5 07 1 5 W W W. B EC TIVE .CO.U K FIND US ON

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Perfect for the Park PA L AC E CO U R T N O T T I N G H I L L W 2

A beautifully presented duplex apartment in a fabulous location moments from Kensington Gardens. The property offers a host of period features including a magnificent reception room with high ceilings, a feature fireplace and a particularly grand west facing window which allows for an abundance of natural light. 3 B E D R O O M S , 3 B AT H R O O M S ( 2 E N S U I T E ) , R E C E P T I O N R O O M , K I TC H E N , C LOA K R O O M , PAT I O .

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SHARE OF FREEHOLD ÂŁ2,200,000 BOB CROWLEY BC@BECTIVE.CO.UK NOTTING HILL OFFICE 020 7221 4805

127 SQ M / 1 , 3 67 SQ FT APPROX E N E R GY R AT I N G E JSA KNIGHT FRANK 020 7229 0229

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CHELSEA

COMMERCIAL

0 20 75 89 6 67 7

020 7985 0715

KENSINGTON

LAND & NEW HOMES

020 7795 4288

020 7313 7711

NOTTING HILL

PROPERT Y MANAGEMENT

020 7221 4805

020 7221 0099

LADBROKE GROVE 020 7221 0330 BROOK GREEN

FIND US ON

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Artesian Gem NORTHUMBERL AND PL ACE NOTTING HILL W2

A wonderful Victorian family house in the heart of Artesian Village. This fabulous property oozes charm and sophistication throughout, boasting an array of period features including high ceilings, floor to ceiling windows, window shutters, wooden floors, Juliet balconies and a feature fireplace. Northumberland Place is generally regarded as one of the prettiest tree lined streets in Notting Hill. 4 B E D R O O M S , 3 B AT H R O O M S ( 2 E N S U I T E S ) , D O U B L E R E C E P T I O N R O O M , K I TC H E N / D I N I N G R O O M , S T U DY, U T I L I T Y R O O M , G A R D E N .

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FREEHOLD ÂŁ3,750,000 BOB CROWLEY BC@BECTIVE.CO.UK NOTTING HILL OFFICE 020 7221 4805

1 8 5 S Q M / 2 , 0 0 1 S Q F T A P P R OX ( I N C VAU LT S ) E N E R GY R AT I N G E

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Bespoke Lifestyle S TA F F O R D T E R R AC E K E N S I N GTO N W 8

L E A S E H O L D ÂŁ 2 ,9 5 0 , 0 0 0

An exceptional south facing property offering a bespoke luxury lifestyle, in the heart of the sought after Phillimore Estate in prime Kensington. Laterally arranged over the second floor of this handsome and well maintained period building, this beautiful property has been fully refurbished and interior designed to exacting standards throughout offering an impressive, contemporary lifestyle. Leasehold: 93 years.

020 7795 4288

2 B E D R O O M S , 2 E N S U I T E B AT H R O O M S , R E C E P T I O N R O O M , K I TC H E N , D I N I N G R O O M , U T I L I T Y R O O M , S T U DY.

1 2 8 S Q M / 1 , 3 74 S Q F T A P P R O X E N E R GY R AT I N G C

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KIM TURNER K T@ B EC T I V E .CO. U K KENSINGTON OFFICE

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COMMERCIAL

0 20 75 89 6 67 7

020 7985 0715

KENSINGTON

LAND & NEW HOMES

020 7795 4288

020 7313 7711

NOTTING HILL

PROPERT Y MANAGEMENT

020 7221 4805

020 7221 0099

LADBROKE GROVE 020 7221 0330 BROOK GREEN

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Modern Marvel E LV A S T O N M E W S K E N S I N G T O N S W 7

A beautifully imaginative and innovative exploration of a mews house, perfectly positioned within in one of the most prestigious parts of Kensington. Designed by award winning architects McKinley Spaces, this is an extraordinarily clever home, which once past the handsome original faรงade, expands into an impressive and elegant useable space. 4 B E D R O O M S , B AT H R O O M , 2 S H OW E R R O O M S , 2 R E C E P T I O N R O O M S , K I TC H E N , U T I L I T Y R O O M , GAR AGE FOR 2 CARS, TERR ACE , LIFT.

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FREEHOLD ยฃ6 ,70 0,0 0 0 KIM TURNER K T@ B EC T I V E .CO. U K KENSINGTON OFFICE 020 7795 4288

317 SQ M / 3 ,413 SQ FT APPROX E N E R GY R AT I N G C 0

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Designer Maisonette L ADBROKE GROVE NOTTING HILL W11

FURNISHED £1 ,650 PER WEEK

An immaculately presented maisonette designed by Anthony Collett. The property boasts a wealth of reception space ideal for entertaining, an opulent master suite and further benefits from excellent natural light. 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms (1 en suite), double reception room, dining room, kitchen, cloakroom, utility room, roof terrace, off street parking space. EPC Rating E.

K A T E F LY N N KF@BECTIVE.CO.UK NOTTING HILL OFFICE 020 7221 5388

Victorian Vestry PONSARD ROAD KENSAL RISE NW1 0

FURNISHED £1 , 350 PER WEEK

A former Victorian vestry, this property offers large and individual living space rarely seen in a family house and is ideal for entertaining. The house is set back from the road benefiting from a separate nanny flat annexed to the main building.Main House: 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en suite), 2 shower rooms, 2 reception rooms, kitchen, cloakroom, utility room, patio garden, roof terrace, off street parking. Nanny Annex: Bedroom, shower room, reception room, kitchen.EPC Rating D.

K A T E F LY N N

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KF@BECTIVE.CO.UK NOTTING HILL OFFICE 020 7221 5388

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COMMERCIAL

0 20 75 89 6 67 7

020 7985 0715

KENSINGTON

LAND & NEW HOMES

020 7795 4288

020 7313 7711

NOTTING HILL

PROPERT Y MANAGEMENT

020 7221 4805

020 7221 0099

LADBROKE GROVE 020 7221 0330 BROOK GREEN

FIND US ON

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Grand Design Q U E E N S GAT E S O U T H K E N S I N GTO N S W 7

PA RT FU R N I S H E D £9 9 5 P E R WE E K

An outstanding apartment impeccably refurbished to the highest standard within this smart portered block in Queens Gate. Offering extremely high ceilings throughout, a state of art Gaggenau kitchen and stylish bathrooms. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en suite), open plan reception room/kitchen, porter, lift. EPC Rating D.

F R A N C E S C A F O R T U N AT I FF@BECTIVE.CO.UK KENSINGTON OFFICE 020 7795 4288

Contemporary Living

11:20

IVERNA COURT KENSINGTON W8

FURNISHED £950 PER WEEK

A beautifully finished apartment ideally situated in this sought after portered building. This spacious property has been finished to a very high standard throughout offering contemporary living and hardwood floors to communal areas as well as access to the garden square. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, open plan reception room/kitchen, porter, lift, access to garden square. EPC Rating D.

F R A N C E S C A F O R T U N AT I

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FF@BECTIVE.CO.UK KENSINGTON OFFICE 020 7795 4288

13/06/2014 13/06/2014 15:09 11:20

Completely at home in West London.

Our services Sales and Lettings Property Management Block Management Property Solicitors Chartered Surveyors Financial Services Visit kfh.co.uk

With over 35 years’ experience and 50 branches across the Capital, our local knowledge and London network will ensure we achieve the right result for you. Our dedicated West London branches include • Bayswater • Holland Park

FULLMASTER PAGE.indd 1 adverts_July-August.indd 2 KFH brand

13/06/2014 15:18 15:04 05/06/2014

Queens Gardens, Bayswater, W2 £1,375,000 Shared freehold Bayswater 020 7724 1222 Email sbw@kfh.co.uk

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Lovingly refurbished to an exceptional standard, this wonderfully spacious apartment boasts a high end finish within a period building, south facing on a popular garden square. This property features wide oak wood floors, Polypipe underfloor heating, bespoke made to measure kitchen with Miele appliances, energy efficient lighting system and integrated three zone sound system.

• • • • • • • •

Two bedrooms Two bathrooms (en suite) One reception dining room Made to measure kitchen Guest WC 1,119 sq ft / 104 sq m Period conversion EPC rating D

15:04 13/06/2014 09:33

07.1

Holland Park Avenue, Holland Park, W11 £1,500,000 Leasehold Holland Park 020 3542 2111 Email shp@kfh.co.uk

09:33

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A beautiful two double bedroom first floor flat in Holland Park featuring a fabulous dual aspect reception room with a high ceiling and very large windows.

• • • • • • • •

Long lease Two double bedrooms Huge windows High ceilings Wood floors Contemporary kitchen Close to Holland Park underground station EPC rating E

15:04 13/06/2014 09:33

Westbourne Terrace, Bayswater, W2 £650 pw Furnished or unfurnished Bayswater 020 7563 5090 Email lbw@kfh.co.uk

Gorgeous two double bedroom, two bathroom property on the fifth floor of this stunning building which has been furnished to a very high standard. Located a short walk away from Paddington station.

• • • • • • • •

Two double bedrooms Two bathrooms Fifth floor Spacious living area Lots of natural light Five minute walk to Paddington station Five minute walk to Hyde Park EPC rating C

£210 tenancy agreement fee per property. Other fees apply, visit kfh.co.uk/lettingsfees

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15:04 13/06/2014 09:33

Ladbroke Grove, Kensington, Holland Park

This month we launched a new development of 133 new apartments for Taylor Wimpey Central London,

The Ladbroke Grove, which has been a phenomenal sales success. The appetite for these new homes is evidence that there is a strong market for well considered and spacious apartments, with the added lifestyle benefits of communal courtyards and an on-site concierge. It’s attracted mostly British purchasers, including a large number of local buyers looking for a new home in a fast regenerating part of W10, opposite Dock Kitchen and Innocent Drink’s ‘Fruit Towers’. Our experienced team are local, proactive, reliable, discreet and effective. We have both a UK wide and international marketing reach. This means John D Wood & Co. have unique buyers on our books that other smaller local agents will not.

ith three offices in Ladbroke Grove, Kensington and Holland Park covering both property sales and lettings in Notting Hill, Ladbroke Grove, North Kensington and Holland Park, we’re experiencing a strong and stable market across London with a cross section of buyers. Whilst we have had some notable sales, the majority this year have consisted of flats and smaller houses costing between £1 million and £3.5 million. In Kensington, many of the purchasers have been international, from a diverse range of countries including Greece, China, Italy, Russia, Iran and Australisia, as well as Britain, the majority of whom are looking for a property to live in across all sectors of the market. In Holland Park, we are also helping parents invest in properties for their children, as well as those looking to downsize. Interestingly we have noticed the youngest buyers this year have typically been in their mid-30’s.

Three Offices: One Team

Newton Road, W2

Guide £3,450,000

Ladbroke Grove 020 3151 6284 Kensington 020 7908 1100 Holland Park 020 7727 2233

If you are thinking of moving, would just like some expert property advice or would like to discuss the benefits of marketing your property through John D Wood & Co.’s extended network, please contact one of our team.

johndwood.co.uk 7 offices in the Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea:

JDW.indd 1 Absolutely Kensington July14 1

Chelsea (2), Holland Park, Kensington (2), Ladbroke Grove, South Kensington.

16/06/2014 16/06/2014 10:50 09:53

ADDISON AVENUE, W11 A fine example of a low-built Regency style house. Presented in good decorative order, this unusually wide, Grade II Listed house has a private west facing garden. Located at the favoured end of Addison Avenue. Approx. 2,744 sq ft 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 4 reception rooms, office, utility room, garden, bicycle shed. Freehold Guide Price £7,000,000

johndwood.co.uk

HOLLAND PARK 020 3151 6255 hollandpark@johndwood.co.uk SOLD

Addison Road, W14

SOLD

Guide £4,950,000 Princedale Road, W11

SOLD

Guide £2,950,000 Holland Park, W11

7 offices in the Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea:

JDW.indd 2 Absolutely Kensington July14 2

SOLD

Guide £2,800,000 Woodsford Square, W14

Guide £3,950,000

Chelsea (2), Holland Park, Kensington (2), Ladbroke Grove, South Kensington.

16/06/2014 16/06/2014 10:50 09:53

ALDRIDGE ROAD VILLAS, W11 A Victorian townhouse in this prime, tree-lined street in Westminster. The house has been immaculately finished. Close to Westbourne Park Underground station. Approx. 3,313 sq ft. Energy Rating: E. 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 3 reception rooms, garden. Freehold Guide Price £4,250,000

HARVIST ROAD, NW6 An immaculately finished family home overlooking Queen’s Park. With six good sized double bedrooms, all with either an en suite bathroom or adjacent, there is plenty of space for a family. Approx. 3,272 sq ft. Energy Rating: C. 6 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, reception room, garden, utility room. Freehold Guide Price £2,999,995

johndwood.co.uk

LADBROKE GROVE 020 3151 6283 ladbrokegrove@johndwood.co.uk SOLD

Newton Road, W2

SOLD

Guide £3,450,000 Westbourne Gardens, W2

SOLD

Guide £1,100,000 Latimer Road, W10

7 offices in the Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea:

JDW.indd 3 Absolutely Kensington July14 3

SOLD

Guide 1,710,000 Blenheim Crescent, W11

Guide £2,200,000

Chelsea (2), Holland Park, Kensington (2), Ladbroke Grove, South Kensington.

16/06/2014 16/06/2014 10:50 09:53

PHILLIMORE LODGE, W8 An exceptional end-of-terrace house with much charm and character, with self-contained 1 bedroom flat, 103 ft garden and garage for 3/4 cars. Approx. 5,260 sq ft. Energy Rating: E. 6 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, drawing room, dining room, study, library, 2 cloakrooms, terrace, front patio garden, substantial rear garden, garage for 3/4 cars. Separate garden flat: bedroom, bathroom, reception room, kitchen. Freehold

johndwood.co.uk

KENSINGTON 020 3151 6269 kensington@johndwood.co.uk SOLD

Allen Mansions, W8

SOLD

Guide £2,000,000 Troy Court, W8

SOLD

Guide £1,200,000 Phillimore Gardens, W8

7 offices in the Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea:

JDW.indd 4 Absolutely Kensington July14 4

SOLD

Guide £15,000,000 Bark Place, W2

Guide £2,990,000

Chelsea (2), Holland Park, Kensington (2), Ladbroke Grove, South Kensington.

16/06/2014 16/06/2014 10:51 09:53

ABSOLUTELY Property

Ask

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

1. How do Open House viewings work? One major problem is trying to show a property at a certain time that is convenient to both vendor & applicant. With very tight work schedules more often the hurdle, open viewings tend to work whereby there is a larger time slot to suit more attending applicants.

2. Where should I invest? Investing your money in property in the Holland Park area is always going to be a prudent move. It is a part of London that holds tremendous appeal, not only for its excellent transport links to the City and superb shopping and dining facilities, but also for its highly regarded local independent, state-owned and international schools. When investing in property it is vital to identify trends in the market as an indicator of how and why the value of your investment is likely to increase. The salient trend in this area is the changing mix of buyers. More buyers from Europe and the Middle East are now discovering the charm of Holland Park. This demand will surely put upward pressure on property values here over the next five years.

Contact 1. Kieran Ryan

Managing Director of Rickman Properties � 020 7937 9777; rickmanproperties.com

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3. What common mistakes do sellers make? When deciding which agent to choose, a lot of vendors will go for the lowest fee and highest suggestion of price which is not necessarily the best deciding point. I would always urge a seller to contemplate the whole picture and look at what the agent can offer them, how confident they are that the agent will perform well and whether they have sufficient marketing and data base of potential buyers to get the best possible outcome. As a seller you are entrusting what is likely to be your most valuable asset in the hands of an agent so the decision on who to choose is crucial.

4. Why hasn’t my property sold? Good question! Mostly, it comes down to the price. Every property has a base line and the market place is very educated on pricing. There can be other factors, noisy children present during viewings, screaming neighbours, or a local blight like a busy road or a train line but any these can be overcome if your property is priced correctly.

5. Should I redecorate pre-sale? A freshly decorated property creates the impression that you care about your home and it makes it a lot easier for the potential buyers to visualize where they would put their furniture when they finally own the property. You want the prospective buyer to fall in love with your home quickly, so fill in any cracks in the walls and see to any patches of damp there may be to prevent that buyer from having second thoughts or suspicions that there might just be something wrong with your property.

2. Simon Corringham

4. Rollo Miles

� 020 3542 2111; kfh.co.uk

� 020 7229 2356; johndwood.co.uk

3. Enna-Mae Assiter

5. Alistair Heather

� 020 3040 8585; chestertons.com

� 020 7221 1111; struttandparker.com

Sales Manager at KFH, Holland Park

Associate at Chestertons

Sales Manager at JDW & Co., Ladbroke Grove

Associate at Strutt & Parker, Notting Hill

17/06/2014 10:00

Sometimes the best things come in small packages one office huge knowledge friendly faces

020 7937 9777 21 Earls Court Road, Kensington, London, W8 6EB Tel: 020 7937 9777 â&#x20AC;˘ 020 7938 3425 Email: info@rickmanproperties.com

www.rickmanproperties.com

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05/06/2014 16/04/2014 11:52 15:19

ABSOLUTELY Property

Luxurious lettings Lowdown for Landlords Maintenance costs: How can they be kept as a minimum?

y starting off as a landlord as you mean to go on. If you are bringing a property to the market for the first time make sure you have had your boiler serviced, your electrics checked and certified, especially as self-certifying increases your risk and liability, and make sure that the general condition of the property is as good as it can be in terms of painting and fixtures and fittings being in good working condition. All of the above will be of enormous benefit to you in the long run and will undoubtedly contribute to reducing your maintenance costs throughout a tenancy.

Situated on the Grosvenor Estate, Grosvenor Crescent Mews is one of Belgravia’s most sort after gated mews. Tucked away, this hidden gem is a delightful modern house.

Emma Harvey

Head Head of of Lettings Lettings of of Finlay Brewer Finlay Brewe � � 020 0207371 73714171; 4171;finlaybrewer.co.uk finlaybrewer.co.uk

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ffering 2069 sq ft and set out over three floors, this property is not short of space and would be ideal for entertaining. It has a bountiful ground floor with a separate dining room. In addition, there’s a kitchen/breakfast room leading onto a charming private patio garden, an elegant first floor reception, three double bedrooms three en suite bathrooms and a secure garage for parking. The house has been finished to the highest standard and is moments from London’s Hyde Park, Belgravia and Knightsbridge; this house truly is a first choice property.

Details

Grosvenor Crescent Mews, SW1

£2,500 perweek Contact

Rickman Properties 0207 937 9777; rickmanproperties.com

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17/06/2014 10:02

Absolutely N&K FP Jun2014_Kerr Westside Ad templates 16/06/2014 14:56 Page 1

75 Goldhawk Road, Shepherd's Bush, London W12 8EH

sales@kerrandco.com

www.kerrandco.com Warbeck Road, W12 £1,650,000 FH This exquisite five bedroom family house retains a wealth of original period features along with modern family living. Warbeck Road is a quiet residential street close to the broad spectrum of transport links and facilities Shepherd’s Bush currently offers. The house is well set back from the road by a pretty front garden giving it a sense of tranquillity.

Hammersmith Grove, W6 £3,000,000 FH A magnificent, terraced, family house offering in excess of 3,700 sq ft over five floors. This classical Victorian house offers greater than average width and provides beautifully proportioned rooms, excellent natural light and an overall sense of space. The house retains many original Victorian features such as plasterwork, sash windows and fireplaces.

✆ 020 8743 1166 KERR&CO.indd 1

16/06/2014 15:22

020 7371 4171

BROOK GREEN 138 SHEPHERDS BUSH ROAD W6 7PB ASKEW ROAD 113 ASKEW ROAD W12 9AS

LOCAL

INDEPENDENT

INVOLVED

CMYK

NETHERWOOD ROAD W14 WONDERFULLY SPACIOUS MAISONETTE  GORGEOUS DOUBLE RECEPTION  4 DOUBLE BEDROOMS 3 BATHROOMS  PRIVATE GARDEN  EPC RATING D 58

£1,300 PW / £5,633 PCM

GOLDHAWK ROAD W6 STUNNING PENTHOUSE APARTMENT  LARGE BRIGHT OPEN PLAN LIVING SPACE  TWO DOUBLE BEDROOMS  FAMILY BATHROOM & EN SUITE SHOWER ROOM  PARKING SPACE  MINUTES FROM RAVENSCOURT PARK  EPC RATED C79

£700 PW / £3,033 PCM

www.finlaybrewer.co.uk

FINLAY_BREWER_JULY.indd 1

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020 7371 4171 LOCAL

BROOK GREEN 138 SHEPHERDS BUSH ROAD W6 7PB ASKEW ROAD 113 ASKEW ROAD W12 9AS

INDEPENDENT

INVOLVED CMYK

DEWHURST ROAD W14 5/6 BEDROOMS



1ST

FL FORMAL RECEPTION  DOUBLE RECEPTION/FAMILY ROOM  KITCHEN/BREAKFAST ROOM  STUDY

2 BATHROOMS (1 EN SUITE)  SHOWER ROOM  UTILITY/CELLAR  46’ GARDEN  EPC RATING E 46

FREEHOLD

GUIDE £2.7M

REDAN STREET W14 3 DOUBLE BEDROOMS  HIGH CEILINGED RECEPTION  KITCHEN  DINING ROOM/RECEPTION 2  PLAYROOM 2 BATHROOMS (1 EN SUITE)  GUEST CLOAKROOM  SECLUDED WALLED  GARDEN  EPC RATING F 36

FREEHOLD

GUIDE £1.75M

www.finlaybrewer.co.uk

FINLAY_BREWER_JULY.indd 2

13/06/2014 12:48

ABSOLUTELY Property

Prime Purchase Vendor advice Can I sell my property while it is currently leased?

ery much so, however, until the property is vacated it would be sold as an investment rather than a straight forward vacant possession. The valuation of your property should reflect this and show a reasonable return on investment at the asking price with the current rent. Most home buyers are looking for personal property and would like vacant possession; therefore, the property will appeal to a much reduced market share. Ease of access and general presentation of the property will also have an effect on the saleability, so to achieve the best value it would be wise to wait until the tenant has vacated.

� This unique and exceptional mewshouse, designed by award winning Swedish architect Henning Stummel, is situated on an exclusive gated mews just off Portobello Road.

Salar Majnouni Managing Director of Prime Realty

� 020 7148 1109; prime-realty.co

he house is set over three levels starting with a kitchen/dining area over the ground floor, reception area and second bedroom on the first floor and master bedroom suite on the top floor with doors leading onto a west facing terrace. All three floors are connected by a vast light well flooding all rooms with natural light. Other elements such as a sauna, a plunge pool and a unique lighting feature running the height of the atrium have been designed with the Northern Lights in mind and make this unique property a great example of contemporary London living with a Scandinavian twist, in a lively yet peaceful and secure Notting Hill location.

Details

Alba Place, W11

£1,695,000 Contact

Winkworth, North Kensington 020 7792 5000; winkworth.co.uk/northkensington

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THE QUADRANT, W10 - £475 PER WEEK

CHESTERTON ROAD, W10 - £475 PER WEEK

This immaculate two double bedroom, two bathroom penthouse This beautifully presented two bedroom apartment on the raised KINGSWOOD AVENUE, NW6 £1,995 PER WEEK apartment offers fantastic outside space. Each room has a ground ﬂoor would make a perfect home for a professional This wonderful familywith house overlooking Queensroof Parkterrace. is presented in exceptional condition throughout and offers spacious yet versatile balcony combined a very large private couple or sharers. accommodation over three floors. The Victorian property provides six bedrooms, three bathrooms with the master bedroom benefitting from a dressing room and en suite bathroom. The ground floor offers plenty of living and entertaining space with a superb bay fronted reception room overlooking the park and a large kitchen opening onto the landscaped rear garden.

OARE, WILTSHIRE £2,750,000 FREEHOLD An extraordinary and individual modern country house in a stunning location. Built originally in 1962 for the artist John Merton, Pound House

ST. HELENS W10 - £500 WEEK ST CHARLES W10£475inPER is broadly Palladian GARDENS, in style and is a wide, single storeyPER building with large windows over looking SQUARE, the gardens. It was extended 1978WEEK to include a garden room and a large studio complex including a workshop and dark room . The property currently has very high ceilings and Having been newly refurbished, this ﬂat is in superb condition. An This beautifully refurbished two double bedroom apartment is brick parapetsROAD, surrounding the roof which hasPRICE good storage space. WALDO NW10 GUIDE £825,000 FREEHOLD open plan kitchen and living room is a sociable environment ideal ﬁnished to a high standard including designer furnishings. Set on Located on a quiet residential Road in Kensal Green, this wonderful Victorian terraced house has been thoughtfully extended and refurbished to offer for entertaining. ever popular Stcellar Charles Square in North Kensington. Four bedrooms | four bathrooms | garden room | hall | drawing room | studio complexthe | dining room | wine | integrated garaging | small lake arboretum | plenty living and entertaining space. The property offers a double reception room on the ground floor opening onto a large kitchen /dining area and over six of acres of land through to a charming patio garden. To the first floor is a large master bedroom with a stunning ensuite bathroom and a further large double bedroom and further bathroom. Waldo Road is a short walk from Kensal Green Bakerloo and mainline station and is well placed for the amenities of Queens Park.

THE WHOLE WINKWORTH NETWORK, NOW IN YOUR POCKET Scan this code to download the Winkworth iPhone app

020 7792 5000 | northkensington@winkworth.co.uk

Winkworth_NKen_July.indd 1 Winkworth Ladbroke Grove.2.indd 1

winkworth.co.uk/north-kensington 16/06/2014 14:26 18/02/2013 15:11

CHURCHILL ROAD, NW2 £395,000 FREEHOLD

RUTLAND PARK GARDENS, NW2 £689,950

Possibly the finest one bedroom apartment ever to grace Churchill Road.

A prime, three double bedroom garden flat on one of Willesden Greens finest streets.

ST. JOHNS AVENUE, NW10 £1,200,000 FREEHOLD

ALVERSTONE ROAD, NW2 £2,625,000 FREEHOLD

A genuinely unique three bedroom statement house offering vast and exciting living space.

A stunning five bedroom, three bathroom family home renovated to exacting standards with a large south west facing garden.

Scan this code to download the Winkworth iPhone app

winkworth.co.uk/willesden-green

See things differently.

020 8451 1000 willesden@winkworth.co.uk

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16/06/2014 14:29

OARE, WILTSHIRE £2,750,000 FREEHOLD Located in the Wiltshire countryside and built in the 1960’s as a large, modern country house with far-reaching views and extremely flexible accommodation with potential to extend further. Located in the Wiltshire countryside and built in the 1960’s as a large house. Four bedrooms | four bathrooms | garden room | hall | drawing room | studio complex | dining room | wine cellar | integrated garagingr

KESLAKE ROAD, NW6

£1,750,000 FREEHOLD

A magnificent Victorian family home in Queens Park less than 50 meters from the park itself. This stunning end of terrace family home should

OARE, WILTSHIRE £2,750,000 FREEHOLD

tick all the boxes for buyers as it benefits form a sunny south facing garden, a vast contemporary kitchen diner that has been fully extended Located in the Wiltshire and just builtoff in the as a large, country house far-reaching views and extremely into the side return and acountryside prime location the 1960’s park. Keslake Road,modern along with Kempe andwith Creighton are the three best streets inflexible this accommodation witheasy potential further. Located the Wiltshire countryside and built in theOverground 1960’s as aatlarge house. location as they give accesstotoextend Queens Park, the tube in station (Bakerloo zone 2) and the London Kensal Rise. Four bedrooms | four bathrooms | garden room | hall | drawing room | studio complex | dining room | wine cellar | integrated garagingr

Scan this code to download the Winkworth iPhone app

winkworth.co.uk/kensal-queens-park

See things differently.

020 8960 4947 kensalrise@winkworth.co.uk

Winkworth_Kensal_July.indd 2

16/06/2014 14:29

ABSOLUTELY Property

Living the Dream � The most luxuriously appointed properties on the market. FREEHOLD

Northumberland Place, W2

wonderful Victorian family house (185 sq m/2,001 sq ft approx. Inc. vaults) in the heart of Artesian Village. This fabulous property oozes charm and sophistication throughout, boasting an array of period features including high ceilings, floor to ceiling windows, window shutters, wooden floors, Juliet balconies and a feature fireplace. Two floors are dedicated to entertaining space with a grand raised ground floor 23 ft+ double reception room and a completely open plan 22 ft+ kitchen/diner below leading into a patio garden. There are four double bedrooms in total including a spacious first floor master suite and top floor en suite with westerly terrace.

FREEHOLD

£3,750,000

Bective Leslie Marsh, Notting Hill � 020 7221 4805; bective.co.uk

SAFE AS

HOUSES

Harvist Road, NW6

Matthew Harrop Director of John D Wood & Co., Kensington � 020 7908 1100; johndwood.co.uk

Argyll Road, W8 (House) 1994 Sale Price: £275,000 2014 Estimate: £8,500,000

atthew Harrop, Director of John D Wood & Co. has worked for the

beautifully appointed and newly refurbished stylish mid terraced period house with the added benefit of panoramic views overlooking Queens Park which offers 6 bedrooms & 5 bathrooms. Viewing is recommended to truly appreciate this stunning home offering plenty of space, light and attention to detail.

Kensington branch since 2003. He is

in his 25th year of working for John D Wood & Co., and previously worked in the company’s Belgravia and Fulham offices. He looks through twenty years of property details, showcasing the outstanding price increases whilst highlighting what a sound investment bricks and mortar can be.

Lexham Gardens, W8 (Flat) 1998 Sale Price: £375,000 2014 Estimate: £1,500,000

£2,999,995 Queens Park Partnership

� 020 7328 2828; queensparkpartnership.co.uk

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ABSOLUTELY Property

Portland Road, W11

Holland Park, W11

St Charles Square, W10

ocated on one of the finest streets in Holland Park, a beautiful and grand four bedroom, three bathroom, two reception period house, which is bursting with character and charm.

light and spacious flat in this period conversion located on a popular residential street. The flat offers three double bedrooms with wooden floors, high ceilings and neutral modern interior.

£5,999,950

£1,350 Per Week

£765,000

� 020 3040 8585; chestertons.com

� 020 7792 1331; douglasandgordon.com

� 020 7313 8350; marshandparsons.co.uk

Chestertons, Notting Hill

Douglas & Gordon, Kensington

his exceptional conversion which occupies the entire top floor of a substantial Victorian corner building boasts huge amounts of light and space, amplified by far reaching rooftop views.

Marsh & Parsons, North Kensington

Lansdowne Crescent, W11

large Victorian house on the terraced outer side of this elegant crescent. With its own private terrace leading directly onto communal gardens this seven bedroom house has superb entertaining space and is wonderfully bright being south facing and beautifully presented.

Price On Application Carter Jonas, Holland Park � 020 7371 1111; carterjonas.co.uk

 Spotlight on W11: Average asking price - £2,607,218Average asking rents - £3,630 pcmAverage property value - £1,751,251

Data provided by 159

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020 7328 2828 62 Salusbury Road, NW6 6NS www.queensparkpartnership.co.uk

CHEVENING ROAD, NW6

£749,950 Leasehold

A charming and very well presented 2 double bedroom ground floor apartment in a converted 3 storey period house situated close to local cafes & shops and Queens Park station (Bakerloo & London Overground) and offering 817 square feet of accommodation. EPC = D

• Modern, fully fitted open plan kitchen • Good size family bathroom • Wood floors, sash windows, fireplaces • Early viewing recommended

PLYMPTON ROAD, NW6

£1,799,950 Freehold

An imposing 2153 Sq ft 5 bed family house full of character & arranged over 3 floors with many period features. Presented in excellent condition & in a convenient position close to the local amenities of Queens Park & Kilburn. Early viewing is highly recommended. EPC = E

• 28’ double reception room • 17’ fully extended kitchen/diner • Cellar & utility room • 50 ft garden & 20 ft roof terrace

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MILMAN ROAD, NW6

£2,750,000 Freehold

Beautifully presented 4 bedroom mid terraced period house offering 2255 sq ft of lateral living space situated in one of the most prominent roads in the area offering panoramic views of the park. The property cleverly combines period & contemporary features with converted 4th bedroom in loft. Sonus sound system. EPC = D

• 28’ double reception room • 25 kitchen/diner with bi folding doors • 40’ West facing rear garden • Master bedroom suite

HARVIST ROAD, NW6

£2,999,995 Freehold

Beautifully appointed & newly refurbished stylish mid terraced period house with panoramic views overlooking Queens Park. 6 bedrooms & 5 bathrooms totalling 3272 sq ft of living space in 4 storey home. Viewing a must to truly appreciate this stunning home offering space, light & attention to detail. EPC = C

• 29’ double reception room •Contemporary kitchen/diner • Master bedroom suite • 42’ south facing landscaped rear garden

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Cemetery View, NW10

£1,299,950 Freehold

• 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms

• Studio in garden & Basement Cellar

• 18ft fully ﬁtted kitchen & utility room

• Mature rear garden with bi folding doors

• 22ft interconnecting reception room

• Lots of original features

Abundant in history is this stunning Wisteria covered four bedroom Georgian town house with unique views over the vast Harrow Road Cemetery & oozing both charm & character and spanning over 1834 sq ft. Good transport connections. Close to local amenities. Viewing essential. EPC : E

Donaldson Road, NW6

£1,625,000 Freehold

• Arranged over three ﬂoors

• Contemporary kitchen/breakfast room

• 4 bedrooms including master suite on TF

• South west facing rear garden

• Interconnecting reception rooms

• Viewing essential

A ﬁne example of a Victorian style terraced property which has been beautifully restored throughout by the current owners and situated in this wide tree lined road. Lovely bright house with bi folding doors onto garden. Close to local transport & the stunning Queens Park. EPC : D

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Westbere Road, NW2

£1,999,500 Freehold

• 15ft dining room,16ft reception room

• Full of original features

• Open plan kitchen/breakfast room

• 65ft rear mature garden, pond & patio

• 5 bedrooms including master suite

• Early viewing essential

A stunning charming ﬁve bedroom red brick period detached property arranged over three ﬂoors offering a spacious amount of space spanning over 2201 sq ft. Situated in an enviable position close to transport. EPC : E

Dartmouth Road, NW2

£1,999,950 Freehold

• 5/6 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms

• Kitchen & utility room

• 2 large reception rooms

• Study, Dining, Room & Conservatory

• High ceilings, ﬁreplaces & cornicing

• 97ft rear garden, garage & car port

Substantial red-brick detached Edwardian house laid out over 2935 sq ft of lateral living space. Abundant in charm and character & offering many original features. Situated on the highly sought after Mapesbury Conservation Area. Good transport links and local amenities. Viewing recommended. EPC : F

www.cameronsstiff.co.uk

Incorporating…

275 Willesden Lane, NW2 5JA | 020 8459 1133 | enquiries@cameronsstiff.co.uk

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Rosebank, Holyport Road, SW6 ÂŁ999,995

Beautifully presented and Newly refurbished to a high standard this Bright and spacious 2 double bedroom apartment set on the first floor (with lift) of a well maintain purpose built benefitting from dedicated parking, balcony, views of the Thames river and the WWT London Wetland Centre nature reserve, share of Freehold and a large basement storage unit for sale in Fulham totalling 985 sq ft.

020 7148 1109

info@prime-realty.co

Tudor House, Windsor Way, W14 ÂŁ750,000

Bright and Spacious one bedroom apartment set on the ground floor of this prestigious private gated purpose built complex with 24hr security, communal gardens, and secure parking. The apartment has a large bright reception room, separate new fully fitted Kitchen, bathroom with shower over bath, large double bedroom with plenty of fitted storage and a long lease.

020 7148 1109

info@prime-realty.co

www.prime-realty.co Prime_Realty.indd 2

17/06/2014 15:01

288 Kensington High Street, London W14 8NZ 020 7148 1109

Holland Park Avenue, W11 Prices from ÂŁ1,370,000 to ÂŁ6,079,000

These 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments have been designed to the highest specification and provide complete luxury living. The contemporary kitchens boast Nobilia units, integrated Siemens stainless steel appliances, air cooling and underfloor heating. The apartments are available with designer furniture packages and a choice of two interior designed finishes. Anticipated completion date of May 2015 for more information please contact us.

020 7148 1109

Prime_Realty.indd 3

info@prime-realty.co

17/06/2014 15:01

Property News HOUSE HUNTING

PALACE COURT, W2 £6,500,000

Sam Allport Associate Director at Mountgrange Heritage, Bayswater office

� 020 7402 0070; mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

Property I’d most like on my books and why... One of the big lateral flats on Cleveland Square overlooking the communal garden. I had a walk around the garden recently and was in awe of how beautiful and well cared for it is. Best place to invest... In Bayswater, W2. For the value it represents compared to Notting Hill to the West and Marylebone to the East. Also for the exciting upcoming major development of

David Pittman

Associate Sales Director of Marsh & Parsons, Holland Park � 020 7605 6890; marshandparsons.co.uk

relationship is like a shark…it has to constantly move forward or it dies. I think what we have on our hands is a dead shark” Alvy Singer (Woody Allen in Annie Hall) The property market, if you read the press, or listen to the friends or relatives of would-be buyers (after all, everyone is an expert!) is in a constant state of boom or bust and over recent months we’ve been hearing an awful lot about a bubble and how it is about to burst. Here at the coal face however, far from being a dead shark, the market in Holland Park remains in fi ne fettle and looks highly likely to continue swimming forwards into the foreseeable future. It

Whiteleys, on Queensway. There are other exciting development plans in the area too which all make it a great place to live and work right now. The most interesting property I have been involved in is... This was the probate sale of an unmodernised house on one of the communal gardens. We had multiple viewings which led to multiple offers. After agreeing the sale there was a claim on the inheritance from distant family members which caused a delay. Then there were surveyors, architects, planners, English Heritage, builders, listed buildings consents, auction houses, etc, all requiring access at different times. I have never done so many viewings on one property! The toughest sale and why... The sale and purchase by a family with toddler

is true that there has been something of a frenzy going on in the sub £2,000,000 market and sellers of fi rst floor or raised ground floor apartments are presently identified by their exceedingly broad grins. However, while it has been ‘sealed bids’ and ‘record prices’ for that particular segment of the market, the rest of the housing market here on the leafier side of W11 and W14 is moving along nicely, without the slightest hint of hysteria or risk of being popped. Still swimming forwards, but at variable speeds.

“

and baby. They wanted to sell their two bedroom flat and buy a three bedroom flat in the same area and tie the two together. It was so stressful trying to keep it together. Their buyer was kept waiting months until an onward purchase was found. Then someone tried to gazump the purchase. The satisfaction when it all went through was immense. Finest property showcase... Palace Court, W2 - £6,500,000 S.O.F. On the open market for the fi rst time in over fi fty years this is an extraordinary lateral flat offering 3,250 square feet of accommodation on one floor. Located on the fourth floor (with lift) of a handsome red brick period mansion building the apartment enjoys unusually high ceilings (approx. 11ft) and excellent natural light.

 suggests:

t’s that time of year again when the Chelsea Flower Show inspires the green-fi ngered god and goddess in all of us and thoughts turn wistfully to barbeques as temperatures start to soar. If you’re a garden lover and looking for a property with outside space, now is one of the optimum times to view. But before you buy, make sure you check the orientation of the garden, pay attention to any potential problematic trees and check your boundary rights and responsibilities.

ANDREA RAFFIN / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

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17/06/2014 10:11

ABSOLUTELY Property

Paul Hyman

Sales Manager at Kinleigh Folkard & Hayward, Bayswater

� 020 7724 1222 ; kfh.co.uk

he sales market in Bayswater is still attracting large numbers of buyers, and with prices remaining strong, combined with a lack of available stock, we’ve seen many properties achieve above asking price. We’ve seen a consistent level of Chinese buyers seeking properties of varying styles, including period houses or purpose built properties in good condition, either to let or use for their families or children. High on the list of desired properties

are two bedroom flats, however they so rarely become available that competition amongst buyers is incredibly fierce. Garden squares are always popular too, with Cleveland Square, Queens Gardens, Princes Square, Kensington Garden squares are always popular too, with Cleveland Square, Queens Gardens, Princes Square, Kensington Gardens Square and Leinster Square all increasingly sought after, as are properties located near to the numerous tube stations such as Queensway, Bayswater and Lancaster Gate. Continued improvements in Bayswater have also helped to maintain the area’s sought after charm. Currently there are plans in place to pedestrianise a small part of Queensway shopping street running up towards Westbourne Grove. In addition, the anticipation of the Crossrail station in Paddington has also added to the growing level of demand in the area.

MINUTES WITH...

William Tellwright Associate Director of John D Wood & Co., Holland Park. � 020 3151 6175; johndwood.co.uk

STRUTT & PARKER NOTTING HILL SPONSORS SUMMER EVENTS IN AID OF THE RUGBY PORTOBELLO TRUST

Why this area? My fi rst job after leaving the Army in 1999 was working for Peter Young in our Kensington office. I immediately clicked with this area and have never wanted to work elsewhere.

� 020 7221 1111; struttandparker.com

trutt & Parker is delighted to announce its support of two special events in aid of The Rugby Portobello Trust (RPT) this summer. The leading local estate agent is sponsoring a special charity opera performance of Rossini Il Barbiere di Siviglia on 18 June to be held at Opera Holland Park. It will be attended by more than 1,000 supporters, coming together to raise money for local youth services which help over 1,200 young people living in the area every week. Strutt & Parker is also sponsoring the Arundel & Ladbroke Gardens Summer Solstice Fete on 21 June, which will be held from 2 pm to 5.30 pm. The fair will include a BBQ, bar, music, tea & cakes, candy floss plus lots of fun for children with a bouncy castle, face painting and a lucky dip. Tickets cost £2 per person or £5 for a family and these include entry to the raffle which will have a host of wonderful prizes donated by local businesses. The Rugby Portobello Trust is a youth charity nestled between Holland Park, Ladbroke Grove and Latimer Road – an area in the UK with one of the highest discrepancies between the ‘haves’ and the ‘have-nots’. RPT tried to close that gap by offering young people a chance to grow and flourish in a safe environment with services including alternative provision school, homework clubs, sports academies, youth clubs and housing provisions.

WILD DAY 2014! SUNDAY 29TH JUNE, 11AM4PM. SPONSORED BY CAMERONS STIFF & CO � mapesbury-dell.org/cameronsstiff.co.uk

What is your company ethos? How do you translate that into giving the best customer service possible? We act unequivocally for our clients, to achieve the best prices for their properties. Th is is executed through employing the very best negotiators, an excellent Professional Department which specializes in lease extensions and we offer a complimentary free Sales Service to all our clients. Our Sales Service department helps with every aspect of the sales process from helping prepare your home for sale right through to helping with your move. What properties are you most excited about having on your books? Right now, the most fluid sector is below £3m. Give me something worth £1.5m and we can carry out 30 viewings in a week, and several offers! What do you predict for the property market in 2014? Holland Park has enjoyed a relatively sober 18 months, not seeing the heady gains of neighbouring postcodes. Th is should allow our market to continue in a smart, healthy, soldier-like manner.

amerons Stiff & Co are delighted to be sponsoring Wild Day 2014, so come and join them being wild in Northwest London’s favourite secret garden! There you will meet real crocodiles and meerkats, as well as baby farmyard animals. Enjoy a delicious BBQ, bar, cakes, tombola, face-painting and loads of family fun. Mapesbury Dell, 10-12 Hoveden Road, NW2 3XD. Entrance is free.

167

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ABSOLUTELY Property

Ask

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

1. Best buy to let investment 1. A good location: walking distance to an Underground Station and shops, restaurants and bars. 2. Condition is key. The preference is for high specification kitchen and bathrooms and preferably hard wood flooring, but do retain period features where you can if you are carrying out works. 3. Look for good natural light and high ceiling height, both can make a property feel larger than it actually is. 4. Portered blocks are popular with tenants, especially those from overseas, due to their security and ease for deliveries and such like.

2. Why should I use a property management agent? Peace of mind - and peace and quiet! Tenants paying premium rents in this area expect to have any problems that arise dealt with swiftly, efficiently and professionally, whatever time or day it is. It makes total sense to have a hands-on Property Manager to take the strain and deal with everything from the boring minutiae to the major dramas, which invariably occur at the

Contact 1. Kate Flynn

Associate Director, Bective Leslie Marsh � 020 7221 4805; bective.co.uk

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USE _Ask the expert.LETTINGS.indd 108

worst possible time. Most of our clients are busy successful professionals who prefer to employ our expertise, happy in the knowledge our fees can be off set against tax.

3. Rental yield vs. capital growth? A property investor looks at both capital growth and rental yield. Property prices in Notting Hill have risen substantially since the previous peak of 2007 so investors have enjoyed excellent capital appreciation but there are no guarantees that prices will continue to rise at this rate. Rental yields are lower (2% - 2.5%) here though than in many parts of London due to the high cost of buying a property. And while demand is strong, rentals are not rising significantly as corporate budgets are not increasing. There is still potential for capital growth but higher yields can be found in other, still undervalued areas.

case of many agents), more admin for the landlord, possibly higher wear and tear on the property and the increased liklihood of voids. Whilst a long term tenancy also comes with wear and tear issues, it offers greater security and a consistent income for the landlord. You can always advertise your property for a short and long term tenancy at the same time to “work” both markets simultaneously.

5. Best buy to let investment. Two bedroom flats on the fi rst floor of a garden square with wood floors, high ceilings and a terrace. They fly off the shelves in South Kensington.

4. Short or long term tenants? The issue of short vs long term tenancies is essentially asking the question of more money vs security of tenure. Short term tenancies mean higher rents but also higher fees (in the

2. Susie Waterfall

4. Emma Harvey

� 020 8962 5915; mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

� 020 7371 4171; finlaybrewer.com

3. Fawaz Otmani

5. Katherine Ilett

� 020 7402 9866; brlets.co.uk

� 020 7584 8888; douglasandgordon.com

Associate Director, Mountgrange Heritage

Senior Lettings Negotiator, Benham and Reeves Residential Lettings, Hyde Park

Head of Lettings, Finlay Brewer

Assistant Manager, Douglas & Gordon, South Kensington

17/06/2014 10:08

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

ZOOPLA_JULY.indd 1 Zest Adverts_Jan2014.indd 1

16/06/2014 08/01/2014 09:28 09:34

Caroline Place

London W2

A substantial & immaculately presented 5 bedroom house, located moments from Kensington Gardens & ideally situated close to the transport links of Queensway & Notting Hill Gate. The property is arranged over 4 floors, offering indulgent entertaining space & also benefits from a private garden, making it an ideal summer let. EPC rating C

£2,700 per week

Notting Hill

020 3040 8588 lettings.nottinghill@chestertons.com

Additional charges apply. Administration: £222 (VAT included). References per tenant: £42 (VAT included)

FULL PAGE.indd 1

16/06/2014 17:21

Portland Road

London W11

ÂŁ5,999,950 guide price freehold

Located on one of the finest streets in Holland Park, a beautiful & grand 4 bedroom, 2 reception room, 3 bathroom, period house, bursting with character & charm. EPC rating F Notting Hill

020 3040 8585 sales.nottinghill@chestertons.com

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16/06/2014 17:21

Newton Road, W2 ÂŁ2,300,000 Leasehold

A wonderful upper maisonette located in this highly sought after road just off the fashionable Westbourne Grove. The property is entered at first floor and benefits from the most glorious open plan living space which opens on to a large terrace with stunning views. There are two bathrooms (one en-suite) and a separate utility/cloakroom. Flats of this quality and size (1,313sqft) are in very short supply so early viewings are highly recommended. EPC=D. Reception room, kitchen-dining room, two bedrooms, bathroom, shower room, utility room and terrace. Sole Agents

020 7221 2277 sam@mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

mountgrangeheritage.co.uk Bayswater 020 7402 0070

MOUNTGRANGE.indd 1

Kensington 020 7937 9976

North Kensington 020 8960 0181

Notting Hill 020 7221 2277

16/06/2014 12:06

Arundel Gardens, W11 ÂŁ3,500,000 Share of Freehold A stunning raised ground and garden maisonette located in the heart of Notting Hill with direct access to wonderful communal gardens. The property benefits from a large double reception room with great ceiling height, a well-appointed kitchen, four bedrooms, three bathrooms and a sizeable terrace which leads down to a private garden which in turn leads on to the communal gardens. Arundel Gardens is located just a stoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s throw from the outstanding boutiques and restaurants of Westbourne Grove and Portobello Road. Sole Agents

020 7221 2277 sam@mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

mountgrangeheritage.co.uk Bayswater 020 7402 0070

MOUNTGRANGE.indd 2

Kensington 020 7937 9976

North Kensington 020 8960 0181

Notting Hill 020 7221 2277

13/06/2014 16:25

Blithfield Street, W8 £1,850,000 Freehold This delightful, double-fronted, well-presented house is located on one of the prettiest streets in ‘Stratford Village’. There are two reception rooms on the ground floor and a large kitchen/breakfast room on the lower ground floor providing a good combination of formal/informal living and entertaining space. All three bedrooms are spacious with ample storage in each of them and all benefit from lovely views of the street. EPC=F. Two reception rooms, kitchen/ breakfast room, three double bedrooms, bathroom and cloakroom. Sole Agents

020 7937 9976 chloe@mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

mountgrangeheritage.co.uk Bayswater 020 7402 0070

MOUNTGRANGE.indd 3

Kensington 020 7937 9976

North Kensington 020 8960 0181

Notting Hill 020 7221 2277

13/06/2014 16:25

Pembroke Square, W8 ÂŁ2,800 per week Fees Apply A beautifully presented house with off-street parking and a stunning landscaped west-facing garden. The house has been refurbished throughout and provides excellent entertaining space as well as good family accommodation. The added benefit of the garden square makes this simply the perfect Kensington family home. Kensington High Street is less than a five minute walk. EPC=E. Two reception rooms, four bedrooms, three bathrooms, west-facing garden and off-street parking. Unfurnished

020 7937 9976 amanda@mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

mountgrangeheritage.co.uk Bayswater 020 7402 0070

MOUNTGRANGE.indd 4

Kensington 020 7937 9976

North Kensington 020 8960 0181

Notting Hill 020 7221 2277

13/06/2014 16:26

Pembridge Square W2 ÂŁ5,950,000 Share of Freehold Notting Hill Sales 020 7727 7777 | nhsales@dng.co.uk North

Chelsea

D&G_JULY.indd 1

Fulham

A beautifully presented ground and lower ground floor apartment in a stunning period building. The property has access to an additional one bedroom self-contained apartment and a peaceful private garden and resident's communal gardens.

Hammersmith & Shepherdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bush

Kensington

Kensington Gate

4 double bedrooms, 3 bathrooms (2 en-suite), 4 reception rooms, 2 kitchens, Cloakroom, Balcony, Terrace, Garden, Resident's communal gardens, EPC: E.

South Kensington

Notting Hill

Pimlico & Westminster

12/06/2014 11:21

douglasandgordon.com

Onslow Square SW7 ÂŁ3,200,000 Leasehold South Kensington Sales 020 7581 8888 | sthkensales@dng.co.uk South

Balham

D&G_JULY.indd 2

Battersea

Battersea Park

A well-presented lateral apartment on the third floor of this popular South Kensington Mansion block. The flat offers spacious and light accommodation throughout whilst benefiting from access to communal gardens and the tennis courts. Clapham

East Putney

Southfields & Earlsfield

Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, 2 further bedrooms, Shower room, Reception room, Dining room, Kitchen, Porter, Basement storage, EPC: D.

West Putney

12/06/2014 11:22

douglasandgordon.com

Holland Park W11 £1,250 per week Fees apply Unfurnished Kensington Lettings 020 7792 1331 | kenlets@dng.co.uk

Vicarage Gate W8 £950 per week Fees apply Unfurnished Kensington Lettings 020 7792 1331 | kenlets@dng.co.uk South North

Balham Chelsea

D&G_JULY.indd 3

Battersea Fulham

A stunning, spacious flat on this prime residential street in Holland Park. The flat is presented in excellent condition with wooden floors, high ceilings and a modern interior throughout.

3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en-suite), Reception room, Eat-in kitchen, Cloakroom, Patio, EPC: E.

An extremely light and spacious recently refurbished flat, with a large reception room and two private patios, ideal for entertaining. Vicarage Gate is ideally located a short walk from Kensington Gardens and Kensington High Street.

3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en-suite), Reception room, Kitchen, Storage area, Patio, EPC: C.

Battersea Park Clapham East Putney Southfields & Earlsfield West Putney Hammersmith & Shepherd’s Bush Kensington Kensington Gate South Kensington

Notting Hill

Pimlico & Westminster

12/06/2014 11:22

Don’t sell your property short. Get an investor’s view.

When we value property, we don’t just rely on educated guesses. We use data and insights from leading London residential property investors at D&G Asset Management. douglasandgordon.com Residential Sales & Lettings

Property Management

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12/06/2014 16:56