NORTH BY NORTHWEST JANUARY 2015

ABSOLUTELY NORTH BY NORTHWEST

JANUARY 2015 / £3.95

NINA CONTI

BOOST YOUR CONFIDENCE

AT THE SCHOOL OF LIFE

ON VOICES & VENTRILOQUISM

KEEP THE ZEN

ZONE OUT WITH YOGA IN MOROCCO

INNER PEACE

MASTER THE ART OF MINDFULNESS IN 2015

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contents Januar y 2015

65 ART & CULTURE

18 HEALTH & BEAUTY

07 WHAT’S ON

28 HEALTH & BEAUTY NOTES

10 MONKEY AND ME

30 FACE VALUE

Diary dates for January

Voices and ventriloquism with comedienne Nina Conti

15

18

SPEECH THERAPY Lessons in conversation at The School of Life

FASHION

STYLE CONFIDENTIAL

School up on the newest trends

20 GOODNIGHT SWEETHEART Chic and silky numbers to sleep in

A miracle massage at the Well Garden Future-proofing your face with five fantastic facials

FOOD & DRINK

39 TABLE TALK

Helmsley + Helmsley’s courgette and aubergine curry

41

FOOD REVIEW

Helen Baron and Richard Mellor tuck into right royal roasts

INTERIORS

44 INTERIOR INSPIRATIONS Ten of the best metal accessories

48 PLAYING HOUSE

Why we love Donna Wilson’s folksy furnishings

TRAVEL 65 ALL CHANGE C o v e r O r l a K i e ly

Keep calm and carry on with a spot of yoga in Morocco

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39 PROPERT Y 78 LOCAL AREA

News and views on buying and letting

80 IN THEIR OWN WORDS

Stephanie Powell at Edmund Cude, Camden

94 LONDON’S MOST POPULAR Nigel Lewis looks at London’s most viewed property

JANUARY 2015

10/12/2014 11:55

THE NEW SPRING COLLECTION NOW AVAILABLE IN STORE & ONLINE OSKA 20 Montpelier Vale London Blackheath T 0208 852 9774 blackheath.oska.com OSKA 71 Heath Street London Hampstead T 0207 433 1482 hampstead.oska.com

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EDITOR HELEN BARON EDITORIAL ASSISTANT ELIZABETH HUTTON EDITORIAL INTERN LOUISE GODWIN ADVERTISING ACCOUNT MANAGER KRISTIAN BRUMBY PROPERTY DIRECTOR ANDY ELMER PROPERTY EXECUTIVE JENNI RAWSTHORNE NORTH PROPERTY EDITOR HUGO HUNTER ART DIRECTOR RAY SEARLE SENIOR DESIGNER PHIL COUZENS PRODUCTION MANAGER STEWART HYDE MIDWEIGHT DESIGNER GEMMA ISTEED PROPERTY EDITORIAL DESIGNER ANDREW MAVIN DESIGNER EKREM YILMAZ JUNIOR DESIGNER REBECCA NOONAN PRODUCTION CONTROLLER CHRISTINE MANN FINANCIAL CONTROLLER ZUL MUHAMAD CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER ALEXANDRA HVID ACCOUNTS ASSISTANT AYSHA HABIBI PA TO THE DIRECTORS MARIANNE MCFADDEN DIRECTORS GREG HUGHES, ALEXANDRA HUNTER MANAGING DIRECTOR SHERIF SHALTOUT For editorial enquiries please email: helen.baron@zest-media.com For advertising enquiries please call 020 7704 0588 or email: advertising@zest-media.com Subscriptions are available simply by emailing marianne@zest-media.com You can receive an online subscription for FREE or a postal subscriptions for 12 months, £30 respectively (to cover postage and packaging). Please email us with your preferred option and details.

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ZEST MEDIA PUBLICATIONS LTD 213 Westbourne Studios, Acklam Road W10 5JJ T: 020 7704 0588 F: 020 7900 3020 WWW.ZEST-MEDIA.COM 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.

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

EDITOR’S letter

I

didn’t want to start 2015 by banging on about diets and fitness. So while you’ll find recommendations for books about nutritious eating, a healthy recipe and a round-up of the best anti-ageing facials among these pages, it’s the concept of mindfulness that’s really at the heart of this issue.

The health industry is booming, but do we value healthy minds as much as healthy bodies? We think nothing of going to the doctor when we have physical ailments, and we spend vast amounts of money on healthier foods and gym memberships. But how much time do we devote to flexing our intellectual muscles, or increasing our sense of emotional wellbeing? How often do we think about practising kindness to our fellow man, at home or at work or somewhere in between (London’s roads and public transport sometimes seem like little more than viaducts of pure hate).

One place to begin the process of broadening your horizons and reconnecting with basic human

5 NX_Jan_EDS_LETTER.indd 5

empathy is Bloomsbury’s School of Life, where founder Alain de Botton has implemented a cultural programme offering, quite simply, good ideas for everyday life. In times of social and personal uncertainty, de Botton is trying to help people cope better with and in the world. Head to page X to find out how I fared at my first School of Life class, How to Have Better Conversations.

More mindfulness can also be found in Alex Jones’ travel review, as she embarks on a week-long yoga retreat for the first time in her life – and realises just how interlinked mind and body health can be. Some things to think on, then, as we hurtle into the New Year. After a month of Christmas madness, let’s hope we can all practise some acceptance, serenity and goodwill to all. 

Helen Baron Editor

JANUARY 2014

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p. 08

AN INTERVIEW WITH NINA CONTI

p. 10

THE SCHOOL OF LIFE

p. 15

ALLEN JONES

> WHAT'S ON

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JANUARY 2015

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CIRQUE DU SOLEIL

CHARLES JOURDAN, SPRING 1979 © GUY BOURDIN

F ro m 6 Ja n u a ry R oyal Alb e r t Hall eturning to the Royal Albert Hall with their awe inspiring new show R Kooza, Cirque du Soleil's spectacular contortionists and trapeze-artists combine acrobatics and clowning to create an electrifying and exotic world. ◆ Kensington Gore, SW7; royalalberthall.com

MAT RICARDO: SHOWMAN 1 9-21 Ja n u a ry S ou th b ank C e ntre ’s P u rc e ll R o o m

GUY BOURDIN Image Maker

Guy Bourdin’s images have always evoked a sense of desire. The scenes he photographed were meticulously staged so are consistently striking and seductive. Charting his 40-year career, this exhibition presents over 250 of his finest works, including a series of never-before-seen sketches, paintings and notes. This large-scale retrospective gives a fascinating insight into the mind behind the camera.

Strand, WC2; somersethouse.org.uk

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◆ Belvedere Road, SE1; southbankcentre.co.uk

WIND IN THE WILLOWS

Th rough out Jan uary Somerset Hou se

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

f, like the majority of us, you think that juggling is boring, think again.

Professional juggler Mat Ricardo's self-deprecating humor, entertaining storytelling, dapper appearance and innate charm has successfully changed our minds.

Bring on the balls.

I

Un t i l 17 Ja n u a ry T h e Vau de v i lle T h e atre he much-loved adventure of Toad, Ratty, Mole and Badger T comes to life at The Royal Opera House with the help of singing narrator Alan Titchmarsh. Having been offered the part in the Olivier Award-winning play after joking that becoming the narrator was his ultimate dream, this is a performance not to be missed. ◆ 404 Strand, WC2; roh.org.uk

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ARTS & CULTURE / WHAT’S ON WELLCOME LIBRARY, LONDON

BOOK PICKS

THE INSTITUTE OF SEXOLOGY

Janu a r y’s Top T h re e He a l thy Recipe Books

Thro u gho u t Ja n u a ry We llc om e C olle c ti on

ex sells, so this candid exploration of sexual behaviour and identity is going to be popular. Inviting you to undress your mind, the Wellcome Collection is showing over 200 erotic objects, images and artworks. Challenging the stereotype of the prudish Brit, this exhibition is utterly saucy. ◆ 183 Euston Road, NW1; wellcomecollection.org

S

THE ART OF EATING WELL Meli ssa a n d Jas mine He ms l e y Ebur y P ress, £25

Throw the rulebook out of the window this January. The Hemsley girls offer alternatives to your vice foods, meaning you'll lose weight, gain energy and feel better with little effort. This is our kind of detox.

ART & LANGUAGE NOBODY SPOKE 2013-2014 ALOGRAM ON CANVAS OVER PLYWOOD WITH ACRYLIC AND MIXED MEDIA 96.7 X 38 X 44.4

ART & LANGUAGE

Unt il 17 Ja nuary Li sso n G a l l er y ringing together the old work of multiple B limit-pushing artists, this exhibition, entitled Nobody Spoke, presents 17 chairs created from ten unrelated canvases. The result suggests an inability to communicate while also exposing the artists' determination to keep trying.

◆

DELICIOUSLY ELLA E lla Wo o dw ard

Yellow Kite, £13.60

From scrumptious raw desserts to colourful salads to go, Borough-based Ella's philosophy is all about embracing the natural foods your body loves. Simple, easy and tasty, this muchanticipated book features over 100 new sugarfree, gluten-free and dairy-free recipes.

◆ 52-54 Bell Street, NW1; lissongallery.com

◆

DESIGNING THE 20TH CENTURY

Un ti l 18 Ja n u a r y Je w i sh M u s e u m o mark 100 years since the birth of the talented T graphic designer Abram Games, this exhibition explores and celebrates his immigrant roots and Jewish background. Having designed 100 iconic WWII posters, Games' found fame and was awarded with an OBE in 1958 for his contribution to the 1940s wartime effort and raising morale. ◆ Albert Street, NW1; jewishmuseum.org.uk

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must read

PURE: JUICING FOR LIFE Ro o ts & Bu lb s: Sarah Cadj i

Quadr ille P ubli shing, £13.49

Listen to your mother and eat your vegetables! This new book from the poeple behind London juice bar Roots & Bulbs is full of recipes that will revitalise and replenish your system.

JANUARY 2015

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Monkey

MAGIC Subversive ventriloquist Nina Conti reveals the tricks of her trade to Absolutely Wo r d s p e n d l e h a r t e

T

here are so many assumptions made about comedians. That they’re insecure, needy, powercrazed, neurotically driven to make jokes all the time – or just not at all funny in real life. That they might be hiding behind their funnier selves or just addicted to showing off. Many of these things are subjects of Nina Conti’s jokes – though in real life she’s probably none of these things. However much she insists that she’s ‘not a natural clown’ and even ‘not the funny one at home,’ she just is funny, in a warm and insightful way.

Nina Conti’s not a regular comedian, though – she’s an actor-turned-ventriloquist and her recent show Dolly Mixtures, which toured the UK to enormous success, comes out on DVD this month. She's instantly likeable and chatty, with a friendly, open face, even when faced with a gruelling schedule of interviews. We meet first thing in the morning at the Universal offices and even when our conversation is interrupted by a fire drill, she's cheery.

So why ventriloquism? On the face of it it’s an unlikely art – archaic, maledominated, a bit geeky. ‘I know! At the beginning I really shuddered, thinking it’s creepy and never funny and I just didn’t like it.’ It all started with Ken Campbell, the eccentric and hugely respected theatre maverick who was Conti’s mentor and one day presented her out of the blue with a ‘teach yourself ventriloquism kit’.

‘He’d come back from Kentucky where they had a convention of ventriloquists – he was so thrilled by this and was at the time writing a show for the National Theatre.

He began to apply his very brilliant intelligence to this very peculiar art and he decided he was going to bring it back to England. At first I thought: Ken, please don’t make me do this, but soon I began to trust him because he had insight.

And then I started to feel like it was a completely underrated and underused art.’

She was a character actress at the time.

‘I love to put in false teeth and play character and be funny, but to it was never my wish to be me and do stand-

I’M HORRIFIED

AND surprised by the position I’VE PUT MYSELF IN. The whole thing is TEETERING ON the verge of HYSTERIA FOR MEW

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ARTS & CULTURE / PROFILE

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JANUARY 2015

09/12/2014 12:18

ARTS XXXXXX & CULTURE / XXXXXXX / PROFILE up. So ventriliquism really is the perfect outlet for the other stuff. I still feel like it’s got legs and can go anywhere.’

How does one actually learn the skills? Is there such a thing as a natural ventriloquist or could anybody get the hang of it? ‘There are certainly unnatural ones – the rigor mortis one, which never looks to me like someone else is talking.

There are six letters that need replacing, the ones that you need to bring your lips together for – m, p etc, so you have to replace those with other letters that you can form at the back of your mouth.

You can read that in 10 minutes on the internet and after that it’s about making your face relax. The first time I tried, it was very much like rubbing the tummy and patting the head. Maybe 12 hours of practice later I had something.’

Conti is best known for her monkey character, which, she says, of all the puppets, is the one that’s most like her.

It’s an outspoken, sweary alter-ego in the form of a small monkey with a guttural, gruff voice and a tendency to complain about Nina’s controlling nature. One of many impressive things about Conti is her ability not only to switch accents but to do it without moving her mouth.

‘I am actually more versatile without moving my mouth, I have more accents,’ she claims. Other puppets include the Scottish granny and the posh pitbull terrier, Killer, as well as the larger-thanlife Eastern European builder, Stefan.

‘They were all people in my life at the time I was writing the show,’ she says, laughing. ‘I keep worrying that Stefan might say something on Twitter.’

The show relies on lots of audience participation as Conti and Monkey throw questions at victims – ‘What do you do?

Why?’ – and members of the audience end up on stage, wearing masks and becoming puppets. Aren’t people too afraid to go and see it in case they get

puppet’s (her own) jokes. It seems genuine, as if she’s surprised by her own self. Is she really laughing? ‘Yes! I’m horrified and surprised by the position I’ve put myself in because I’m not a natural clown to stand up and be outlandish. So the whole thing is teetering on the brink of hysteria for me.’

Does she worry that it’s just not going to work? ‘I always worry. But once you’re in the water’s warm, it’s just the build up.’

Conti’s trick is to break the rules of ventriloquism straight off. ‘What’s that on your face?’ asks Monkey. ‘It’s a microphone,’ says Nina. ‘Why haven’t I got one?’ demands Monkey. One of the puppets shouts: ‘We’re all you, Nina.’

PUPPETS INCLUDE the Scottish granny AND THE POSH PITBULL TERRIER as well as a LARGERTHAN-LIFE Eastern

European builder

picked? ‘I know! It really surprises me that I’ve ended up doing this because I’ve always been frightened of audience participation – both doing it and being picked – so I’m trying to do it with all the warmth I can muster and really make people realise that it’s going to be fun and they don’t need to do anything.

It’s up to me to make it work. People do start to unfurl in the masks. They realise that if they do something it gets a big laugh and usually they start to do a bit more and it’s actually quite fun for some people.’ Part of Conti’s persona is to giggle nervously, laughing at her

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The whole meta-ventriloquism thing leaves the question of who is Nina and why is she a ventriloquist hanging over the entire act, as if it’s all a complex form of psychotherapy. Was this a starting point or did it develop? ‘I wasn’t initially subversive, though I did start swearing a lot immediately. Most adults do it – if they’re going to make a teddy say something they get crude; a lot of people will default to rude, it’s an easy gag. And you’re removed from responsibility.’

Going on stage with no puppet is harder, though it’s something she’s working on.

Conti lives not far from where she grew up in north London with her husband and two sons, aged 10 and 3. What do they think of her job? ‘The little one thinks that it’s completely normal and he likes monkey. Monkey has to come home and on the plane he’s in my hand luggage.

He wants me to get him out on the plane and I do... and monkey’s talking and I hope nobody’s looking. The boys think the puppet’s funny but I’m not the funny one in the house – my husband is the true clown.’  Dolly Mixtures by Nina Conti is out now

12 10/12/2014 11:46

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ARTS & CULTURE / LOCAL SPOTLIGHT WE CAN learn

to see conversation as an ‘UNREHEARSED intellectual ADVENTURE’.

Speech Therapy Helen Baron seeks enlightenment at London’s School of Life

I

descended the stairs to the lower ground floor of the School of Life with some trepidation.

Initially, I’d thought I was booked in for a straightforward talk, ‘How to Have Better Conversations,’ but as it turned out (and as I’d just found out, on arriving at the school’s elegant premises in Bloomsbury), this was to be a class discussion where all present would chew over the chosen topic together. I am not the kind of person who does things like this – but it was too late to back out. So I took the plunge, entering the classroom amid the hum of my fellow classmates.

If better conversations were the goal of

the session, I supposed, there was no time like the present to put my skills to the test.

Of course, I needn’t have worried. Not only were my fellow attendees a very pleasant and personable bunch, but class leader Gaylene Gould was adept at keeping the flow of ideas and interaction flowing.

Over the course of two hours, we were asked to consider questions such as ‘What is the most lifechanging conversation you have ever had and why?’, and, ‘Do you put good conversation down to content or chemistry?’ We were also given a good overview of the kind of intellectual tools we might use to approach such questions, not

15 Jan_C&A_School.indd 15

least an awareness of the recent history of conversation, including developments and trends that still influence our awareness of the concept today: eighteenth century oratory prowess being one, the Victorian elevation of rationality over self-expression another. Twentieth century developments in conversation such as the rise of emotionally open conversation were also discussed, and the upshot was that all present could see quite clearly the fluctuating nature of our society’s conversational habits and expectations.

That said, this is no simple self-help session: the class does not propose to reveal the secret to the ‘art’ of conversation.

But while I don’t leave feeling like some hitherto invisible mental floodgates have been thrown open, my interest is definitely piqued. The class provides a focus for my own increasing sense of self-awareness, mindfulness and a personal desire to challenge some of my more inhibiting traits.

It encourages positive thinking around conversational scenarios, with the general thrust being that we do not have to see conversations as inherently difficult, nor inherently off-putting because of their potential for difficulty. We can instead challenge our assumptions and learn to see conversation as an ‘unrehearsed intellectual adventure’. Armed with a bevy of relevant quotations from some of the world’s best-known thinkers, I leave with a feeling that life’s misty veil of confusion has been lifted somewhat – and this feeling brings with it a renewed enthusiasm for (or determination regarding) the embrace of social opportunities. u

The School of Life was established in 2008 by best-selling author Alain de Botton and former Tate Modern curator Sophie Howarth. The organisation now operates across the globe.

The School of Life EQ Certificate programme offers ‘a structured journey through rich, enlightening and transformative material’ as well as a personal tutor and the chance to ‘navigate around seven subject areas which touch on the most important aspects of modern life: Work, Love, Self, Home, Community, Meaning and Culture’. Priced at £1,500, the programme lasts a year. u

Visit theschooloflife.com for more information.

JANUARY 2015

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> FASHION NOTES

p. 18

GOODNIGHT SWEETHEART: SUMPTIOUS SILKS FOR SEDUCTIVE NIGHTS IN

p. 20

COLD COMFORT Don’t be caught out by the deep freeze this January. Instead, turn to MaxMara for the elegant solution to big chill problems. Think sharp, simple silhouettes and sophisticated layering. Winter’s not so bad after all. gb.maxmara.com

17 C&A_JAN15_Fashion_Opener.indd 17

JANUARY 2015

09/12/2014 10:15

st y l e C e n t r a l

Wrap up warm in blanket coats and read the new portrait biography of Yves Saint Laurent words helen baron

ALL ABOUT YVES B y R ox a n n e L o w i t

irst there was the biopic, now there’s the book – a new F portrait of Yves Saint Laurent, featuring backstage shots from legendary fashion photographer Roxanne Lowit with contributions from YSL muses such as Jerry Hall, Grace Jones and LouLou de la Falaise.

The pioneer who brought Piet Mondrian and ‘le Smoking’ to fashion prominence, Yves Saint Laurent was also one of the most subversive and controversial designers in post-war couture – and his talent made a lasting impression on the industry. Lowit’s pictures document her personal history with Saint Laurent from 1978 (the year they met) to the last show he gave, in 2002, affording readers a glimpse of the backstage experience and sharing a unique portrait of a fashion genius. ◆

Orla - la Orla Kiely

There isn’t much we don’t like about Orla Kiely’s AW14 collection. In fact, there’s nothing we don’t like about it. From the midnight blue two-piece to the swinging Sixties shift, we love it all. This textured jacquard sleeveless dress in peony (£299, pictured) is Betty Draper to an absolute ‘t’. orlakiely.com

● Y V E S S A I N T L AU R E N T £29.95, Thames & Hudson, out now

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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FASHION / NOTES 6 of the best

PIECES OF GREAT

BLANKET COATS

Oscar de la Renta

A tad summery it may be, but we just couldn’t resist this parrotembroidered full-pleated skirt by the dear departed Oscar de la Renta. Influenced by Japanese artistry, this piece is silk-lined and fitted at the waist – perfect for al fresco lunches if you’re headed away for some winter sun. £1,725; harrods.com

01

GOODY TWO SHOES

PLÜMO AW14

French Sole

Two-tone colour can be a difficult trend to pull off, but these gorgeous ‘Penelope’ pointed flats by French Sole in contrasting suede tick all the right sartorial boxes. Team with a blazer and cigarette pants for a timelessly elegant look. Penelope Navy and Purple Suede Leather Flats, £160; frenchsole.com

02

SNOW DAY Claudie Pierlot

Claudie Pierlot has managed a magnificent fashion feat by deftly combining fringing with none other than... a parka. And not just any old parka: a shiny, knee-length wonder with faux fur collar. The winter collection puts a decidedly urban spin on the brand’s usual contemporary classics. claudiepierlot.com

03

04

BLACK MAGIC Freya

Further exoticism can be found in these vivacious booties from the new Freya Rose Couture collection: the playful ribbon detail is an indulgent nod to the Victorian era.

Made with fine Chantilly lace and black silk satin with Japanese clay beads as embellishments, they’re practically works of art. £695; freyarose.com

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05

06

1. PLUMO Blanket Cardigan, £149; plumo.com 2. JIGSAW Geo Wool Blanket Coat, £149; jigsaw-online.com 3. TOAST Tapestry Knit House Coat, £225; toa.st 4. AGNONA Cashmere Colourblocked Coat, £4,165; stylebop.com 5. MONSOON Chester Blanket Coat, £129; mytheresa.com 6. APRICOT Faux Fur Blue & Yellow Aztec Blanket Wrap, £29; apricotonline.co.uk

JANUARY 2015

09/12/2014 16:33

Goo d ni ght

SWEET HEART Adorn yourself in sumptuous silk for slumber time this winter Photography Helen McArdle Styling Charlie Moore

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Tulle baby doll £345, by Agent Provocateur White cotton bodysuit (underneath), £130, by Simone Perele On right hand gold love bite ring, £85, by Maria Black, gold ring from a selection at Alex Monroe On left hand ring from a selection by Alex Monroe

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Cashmere Roll-Neck Sweater, £325, Issa

Cashmere sweater, £109, by Pure Collection Silk chiffon bra, £79 and matching knickers, £49, both by Made By Niki

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Gold lace chemise, £330, by Gilda & Pearl at Selfridges Nude silk bra, £57.50 and matching knickers £48 (underneath chemise), by Damaris On right hand - 14 carat gold plated star ring, £29, by Annie Haak 22 carat gold plate baroque ring, £132, by Alex Monroe On left hand - rings from a selection by Alex Monroe

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Silk Black and White Striped Pyjama Shirt, £330, as part of a set, by Olivia Von Halle at Fenwicks Left hand - Beige Gold and Diamond Coin Ring, £3,805, and Brushed Gold Ring (right hand), £1,630, and Gold and Diamond Loupe Pendent, £3,780, all by Dina Kamal at Dover Street Market

STOCKISTS

Photography Helen McArdle at Kayte Ellis Agency Styling: Charlie Moore Make up: Helen Asher at ERA Management using M.A.C Hair: Jason Crozier for No.74 Hair and Beauty London using Bumble & Bumble Model: Charlotte Pallister at Select With thanks to the Sloane Club, 52 Lower Sloane Street, SW1W, 020 7730 9131; sloaneclub.co.uk

FashionShoot_Jan_5pp.indd 24

winderlondon.com princessetamtam.co.uk sarrieri.com houseoffraser.co.uk purecollection.com madebyniki.co.uk selfridges.com anniehaak.com fenwick.co.uk doverstreetmarket.com alexmonroe.com maria-black.com damaris.co.uk winserlondon.com

09/12/2014 11:59

BATH SORTS

BATHROOM DESIGN SPECIALISTS

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

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Start off the New Year on the right foot...

SHOES MADE ANYWHERE ELSE ” “ I WOULDN’T HAVE MY-Kathleen Turner

ANTHONY ANDREWS BESPOKE CELEBRITY SHOE DESIGNER FOR LADIES & GENTLEMEN

12 New Cavendish Street, W1G 8UN 020 7486 4664 | info@specialfootwear.co.uk | www.specialfootwear.co.uk

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> HEALTH & BEAUTY CONFIDENTIAL

p. 28

FACE VALUE: FIGHT AGEING WITH THESE FIVE FACIALS

p. 30

LUSCIOUS LASHES It-girl-about-town Alexa Chung is the face of eye make up expert Eyeko’s dazzling collection. Finally there are tools to help us get Chung’s perfect ‘60’s liner flick.

Prices vary; eyeko.com

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JANUARY 2015

09/12/2014 16:44

TRIED & t e s t e d

STUDIO NINETY Hair CVT

Fitness

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

Wo r d s H e l e n ba r o n

Wo r d s r o m y va n d e n b r o e k e

pparently, us Brits spend a whopping six billion on A hairdressers every year – but how often do we like the hairstyle we end up with? Forget relying on Photoshopped images of Alexa Chung as a reference for your stylist, Hair CVT has come up with a better (and more reliable) idea: browse thousands of styles seen on REAL PEOPLE, search for looks (dip dye, balayage, highlights) and choose your favourite stylist.

Mine was Madeline Hale of Studio Ninety, and she didn’t let me down. I wanted to swap my outdated balayage for more subtle highlights while keeping my darker colour at the roots, it being winter; Madeline did so with aplomb, using Davine products and their unique plastic mesh strips (instead of foils) for highlighting (the process is actually called flamboyage).

What’s more, the coolly decorated salon was a chilled-out haven. As Madeline only ever sees two clients at a time, the vibe is laid-back. You can relax in a big comfy armchair while you’re waiting for your colour to set in, without the fuss and frenzy of a typical big-name salon. I was chuffed to bits with my new ‘do’ – nothing too bleached or blonde, just subtle honey shades scattered throughout and a killer blow-dry to boot. u

●STUDIO NINETY To check out Madeline’s work for yourself, head to HairCVT to view her portfolio; haircvt.com

Take the Piste net-a-sporter

The online retailer has introduced luxury brands such as Fendi, Pucci, Lacroix and Peak Performance to its new skiwear collection. net-a-porter.com

90 De Beauvoir Road, N1; studioninetylondon.com

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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HEALTH & BEAUTY / NOTES

PICK

Ayurvedic Massage

DULY NOTED

Wo r d s H E L E N B A R O N

Daily Greatness

Get 2015 off to a bright start with a Daily Greatness Journal; a 12-week diary in which you track your health and fitness so as to be more aware of your progress vs. your goals. £29.95; dailygreatness.co

ounded by very talented Ayurvedic massage specialist Lily Fraser, the Well Garden has recently expanded from a single room to a much larger space, a holistic heaven with a list of therapies as long as your arm and, more importantly, amazing therapists with magic hands. Nowadays, Fraser herself sees about six clients a week – and therein lies her secret.

Massages in spas and salons often leave much to be desired, amounting to little more than a prolonged series of unsatisfying strokes.

Therapists are paid a fixed amount to administer as many massages as will fit into a day – and however hard they try, their hands can’t help but tire. Due to the limit she places on the number of her clients, Fraser’s hands are always at their best. The same applies to her fellow therapists at The Well Garden, who are trade-tested to ensure they meet the centre’s high standards.

For my part, this is the massage of my life, no question. Fraser works magic on my back, addressing muscles that are prone to spasm and relieving tension right up into my neck and head, working effectively into each shoulder blade. The Ayurvedic approach isn’t all about massage – it encompasses diet, yoga, meditation and herbal remedies as well, all essential for wellbeing and health – and the Wellness Garden is a great place to learn more about it. It’s a philosophy I can get behind. After a blissful hour, I feel completely unknotted – a feeling so rare and delightful, I know I’ll be back for more. ◆

F

FULL BLOOM B loom Teas

Consider swapping your coffee for a cup of Supercharge Matcha Green Tea. Matcha is grown exclusively in Japan, the fine powder delivers its antioxidant ingredients at a much higher potency than normal green tea and contains caffeine if you still need that morning pick-me-up. £19.80 for 30g; bloomtea.co.uk

WHIZZ KIT Nutribullet

Why do we love the compact Nutribullet?

There’s no need to peel fruit and veg, just whizz them up, including stems, seeds and skins (therefore keeping the nutrients and fibre intact) in minutes, with minimal cleaning. You can even chuck in nuts or dried fruit and it comes in three cool colourways. Start 2015 the right way by blitzing your 5-a-day at breakfast. £99.99; buynutribullet.co.uk

h o l i st i c r e v i e w

THE WELL GARDEN

editor’s

BARRE BAND Kitsch

Keep your hair out of your face when working out with one of these cute headbands from Kitsch. Available in four different colours, choose from ‘Zumba Zealot’, ‘Voga Vixen’, ‘Pyscle Sister’ or our favourite, ‘Barre Core Babe.’ £7.50; mykitsch.com

●THE WELL GARDEN 17 Amhurst Terrace, E8; thewellgarden.co.uk

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JANUARY 2015

10/12/2014 09:59

HEALTH & BEAUTY / SPOTLIGHT

MURAD AHA RAPID EXFOLIATOR FACIAL

merica’s first authentic doctordeveloped brand comes to Dalston.

Based on scientific principles and formulas that have been researched, developed and perfected by renowned dermatologist Howard Murad over more than fifty years, the unique and patented blend of antioxidants, anti-inflammatories and hydrators soothe and revitalise skin, revealing a more luminous complexion.

A

The Result:

Face Value

2015 is here and facials are at the forefront of the New Year’s antiageing trend. Absolutely reports on five fantastic future-proofers...

KLAPP COSMETICS FACIAL

ith over 35 years of experience, Klapp Cosmetics have finally W brought their expertise from Germany to London. Using active ingredients, modern methods and high-tech technology – including a hydro-steamer – treatments combat an array of ailments from ageing, sensitivity and redness to dehydration and acne.

The Result: A therapeutic and deep cleansing facial that, with the aid of steam treatment and stress-relieving massage, opens pores and allows for the therapist to purge, penetrate and detox my skin’s many layers. The Hyaluronic facial would be my saving grace this winter, with different sized molecules of hyaluronic acid creating a brightening effect from within the upper epidermis. Five different steps include micro-peeling, a bubble mask, hyaluronic concentrate steam and massage jelly. eh  Facials start at £60 for 60 minutes. Kalma Spa, 180 Broadhurst Gardens, NW6; kalmacosmetics.co.uk

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PERRICONE MD INSTANT RESULTS SIGNATURE FACIAL

e’ve loved Perricone MD products ever since they launched and now, due to customer demand, the brand has devised two facials – which are available for the first time in the UK at George Northwood’s go-to salon for the fashion elite.

The Result: Choose from a facial combined with a Caci machine (which delivers microcurrent impulses for a non-surgical face-lift) or a more holistic facial that uses massage to lift and tone the facial muscles.

The latter also employs some much-needed neck and shoulder massage (remember that the neck muscles are connected to those in the face). The massage stimulates circulation, firming and toning, so that afterwards my face feels like it’s had a bit of a workout. hb  Instant Results Signature Facial, £70; Lifting & Toning Facial, £105. George Northwood Salon, 24 Wells Street, W1; georgenorthwood.com W

Using a UV camera to reveal the amount of sun-damage to the skin, this treatment may leave you feeling slightly shocked by the ravages exposed. Help is, however, at hand: my facialist tailored my treatment so that it contained the correct amount of damagereversing vitamin C. This is a crucial element to any anti-ageing programme, as sun damage is the number one cause of fine lines and wrinkles. eh  £95 for 75 minutes. Smooth You Town Spa, Dalston Square, E8; smoothyou.co.uk

THALGO ANTI-AGEING FACIAL

halgo, purveyors of marine-based skincare, have developed a range of facials with anti-ageing properties; the treatments use a key marine complex to regenerate skin and maintain its youthfulness.

T

The Result:

Using a combination of the brand’s Ultimate Time Solution and Super Silicum range, my face was kneaded and massaged until it pretty much ached; but that meant it was effective, and I left with a radiant visage to prove it. Massage to the neck, décolletage, arms and even feet is included and afterwards you can spoil yourself in the Langham Hotel’s luxurious Chuan Spa, with its vitality pool and Himalayan salt sauna. hb  Facials start at £95 off-peak. Chuan Spa, 1C Portland Place, W1; chuanspa.com/en/London

THE DIY OPTION The future of your face may lie in the hands of this nifty tool from cult beauty brand Clarisonic, taking cleansing to the next level via an oscillating brush that makes for a deeper, more penetrating and effective clean. Proven to reduce surface oil and the build-up of make-up, skin feels clearer and fresher for longer – even after a single use. Let’s face facts – this is one beauty gadget that could change the way you cleanse forever.u Clarisonic Aria, £155; clarisonic.co.uk

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TO THE

RESCUE Repair the festive season’s damage and get your health back on track in 2015

HIGHGATE PRIVATE HOSPITAL With easy access to private GPs and over 250 expert consultants throughout treatment, Highgate Private Hospital is not only recognised by all private medical insurers but has free parking and flexible appointment times to suit you, without long waiting lists. Call reception to find out more about the extensive list of GP and medical services. Private GP Services, 17-19 View Road, N6, 020 8341 4182; highgatehospital.co.uk

RUN HACKNEY

NET A PORTER

If you’ve set yourself a New Year challenge, signing up to the Vitality Run Hackney Half Marathon is an ideal incentive. You’ll not only be setting a worthwhile goal but will enjoy the live music and local crowds cheering you round the closed-roads route, which covers Hackney Marshes and the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. The run takes place on Sunday 10th May. Sign up at runhackney.com

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HAMPSTEAD HYPNOTHERAPY

BODYISM If your New Year’s resolution is to get in shape, Bodyism is a full-concept fitness service run by coaches and experts in weight-loss. A favourite of Elle 'The Body' Macpherson, the brand have now launched their own bodywear range. The 'Brazilian' collection is inspired by women who want to look good while they work out and combines fashion with function and state-ofthe-art, breathable, lightweight fabrics. Find out more about Bodyism and the Clean & Lean philosophy by heading to the website. bodyism.com

Monica Black is a leading Master Clinical Hypnotherapist, Master NLP Practitioner, EMDR Practitioner, Coach, Trainer, Public Speaker and Media Lifestyle Commentator. Monica has successfully helped many people overcome conditions such as stress, confidence, fears/ phobias, weight management, smoking cessation and more thus enabling them to make positive changes in their lives. MONICA BLACK ANLP, BAThH, CHNC GHR, 020 7419 2211, 07776230332 hampsteadhypnotherapy.com

TEMPO PILATES Reformer pilates combines weight training, lunges and squats with stretching and posture exercises on machines to strengthen and lengthen limbs, as well as addressing back issues, while at the same time working the muscles to help you shift inches inches. The studio is headed by Daniel Le Roux – a man much raved about in the industry. Studio 204, Netil House, 1-7 Westgate Street, E8; tempopilates.com

FISH MARKET X FRAME

PILATES CENTRAL

This new ‘fitness followed by foodie’ experience at The Warehouse weekend Club gives you the chance to take part in an hour long yoga session in front of Old Bengal Bar’s floor-to-ceiling mirrors, then enjoy a healthy brunch (put together

by Frame’s inhouse nutritionist) at Fish Market next door every Saturday. No ifs, just great butts. moveyourframe.com

At this superb state-of-the-art Pilates studio, trainers will devise a programme to suit your needs, whatever your age and fitness level. Within easy reach of Kings Cross, Clerkenwell and the City, it’s not only the ideal place to get back to fitness after a break – it’s a post-injury and post-training recovery centre too. 10-12 Gaskin Street, N1, 020 7288 8080 pilatescentral.co.uk

THE LABORATORY SPA & HEALTH CLUB This exclusive health club in Muswell Hill was named the country’s Best Health Club in 2014 at the prestigious National Fitness Awards.

The outstanding facilities – which include a sky-lit pool, in-house juice bar, state-of-the art gym and luxury spa – beat off strong national competition to take the crown.

The Avenue, N10, 020 8482 3000; labspa.co.uk

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JANUARY 2015

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DON’T MISS OUT ON OUR

EJxANcUlARuY sOFiFvERe

LAB SPA.indd 2

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THE LAB WINS AGAIN! HEALTH CLUB OF THE YEAR

JOIN & CELEBRATE 20 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE.

MUSWELL HILL THE AVENUE N10 2QE CALL 020 8482 3000 MILL HILL HALL LANE NW4 4TJ CALL 020 8457 3300 LABSPA.CO.UK

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timeless

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

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

www.funktionalkitchens.co.uk

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> TABLE TALK

p. 39

FOOD REVIEWS:LE COQ AND NUMBER 90 p. 41

IN-SPIRALIZED The Helmsley + Helmsley Spiralizer is the perfect complement to the chart topping cookbook The Art of Eating Well, which was released to critical acclaim earlier last year.

The health conscious cook’s secret weapon is available online this month. £29.95, amazon.co.uk

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JANUARY 2015

10/12/2014 10:24

TRO N I H ONT M A £3

DU

FFER O N CTIO

TRY NEW THINGS So far this year, we’ve been up 2 towers- the Oxo Tower and the Shard; we’ve sung our hearts out in a Reggae Choir, gone scuba diving, had walks & picnics, as well as some fantastic nights out!

MEET NEW PEOPLE Through our regular meet ups and events, we give people the opportunity to make new friendships & connect with each other.

CONNECT WITH THE BOROUGH We showcase some of the fantastic things on offer from community organisations and local businesses.

SAVE MONEY Our Camden source & arrange deals for our Members with local businesses. This enables us to support independent business & encourage people to shop locally whilst making great savings.

Contribute.

Celebrate.

Connect. www.ourcamden.org 0203 488 0020 OUR CAMDEN.indd 1

08/10/2014 11:48

FOOD & DRINK / NOTES RECIPE

COURGETTE & AUBERGINE CURRY B y HE MS L EY & H E MSL EY Serves: 4 simple one-pot supper that is

A warming for the soul. The coconut and ginger have incredible immuneboosting properties.

INGREDIENTS • 200g bar of creamed coconut (use the oil for frying) • 2 large onions, diced • 2 thumbsized pieces of fresh root ginger (about 80g) – unpeeled if organic – grated • 6 large garlic cloves, diced • 200g red split lentils, rinsed • ½−1 litre bone broth or water • 1 large aubergine, chopped into 1.5cm pieces • 4 large tomatoes, quartered • 2 large courgettes, diced • Grated zest and juice of 1 unwaxed lime or lemon • 2½–3 tsp tamari or 2 large pinches of sea salt • 1 tsp maple syrup • Handful roughly chopped fresh herbs such as coriander, mint or basil

TABLE TALK A healthy Hemsley & Hemsley recipe and London’s fantastic new home delivery service METHOD

In a large wide pan, dry fry the peanuts or cashews for a few minutes to toast them, roughly chop and set aside.

02 In the same pan, heat the coconut oil over a medium heat and fry the onion, ginger and garlic for 10 minutes until soft.

03 Add the lentils, the coconut solids and then most of the bone broth or water and stir well. This should be enough liquid for the coconut solids to dissolve, but keep an eye on the liquid levels so that the lentils don’t stick and burn at the bottom.

04 After 6 minutes of cooking over a medium-high heat, add the aubergine and stir. 05 After a further 10 minutes, add the tomato, courgette, lime or lemon zest and the tamari or salt. 06 After 6 minutes, turn off the heat and add the lime or lemon juice, the maple syrup and fresh herbs, then stir and taste. 07 Top with the nuts and serve with watercress or your chosen side dish. If we’re having guests round, we like to serve our curry with some bowls of extras (nuts, herbs, lemon or lime wedges) so everyone can help themselves to extra toppings. ◆ 01

Deliveroo

FAST FOOD NATION The dual forces of Chicken Shop and Dirty Burger have come east to share their particular brand of haute fast food with the hipsters of the hood. If you like chicken… and beef, you’ll love this double whammy.

27a Mile End Road, E1; chickenshop.com, eatdirtyburger.com

ew premium delivery service Deliveroo is just the cleverest thing.

Order online and it will pick up a meal from a restaurant near you and bring it straight to your door; just look up your postcode and see what's on offer. We went for Mexican – other options for the surrounding area include Banana Tree, The Diner, United Ramen and Homa. deliveroo.co.uk

N

TRADE UP

rade is the perfect place to grab a tasty flat white or to settle in for brunch on a Sunday afternoon. The Smashed Avo, avocado mixed with lime, feta, red chili and served on grilled sourdough, is light, flavoursome and utterly scrumptious – while those looking for something a little more heavy duty should try the Pastrami Benedict: Eggs Benedict with house-smoked pastrami. Heaven. 47 Commercial Street, E1; trade-made.co.uk

T

Taken from The Art of Eating Well (Ebury Press)

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JANUARY 2015

10/12/2014 10:27

INTERIOR DESIGN SPACE PLANNING DECORATION FURNISHING DESIGN & BUILD LIGHTING

07850 101011 SARAH ROSS_FP.indd 1

www.sarahrossdesign.com 08/12/2014 11:46

FOOD & DRINK / REVIEW

NO.90

A roast with the most W o r d s HELEN BARON

LE COQ

Eating happy, healthy hens with a lamb-loving chicken-sceptic

I

Wo r d s R i c h a r d M e l l o r

t’s all about poultry tonight.

Departing the Hen and Chickens Theatre Bar, a game old bird in tow, I strut over to a new neighbourhood rotisserie.

As coops go, this one is mighty promising. Stylishly sparse yet cosy inside, LeCoq is positioned plum on the Highbury end of St Paul’s Road, its arrival confirming this parade as a foodie hotspot. Italian trattoria fave Trullo is doors away and TripAdvisor-topping fishmonger Prawn on the Lawn is a little further.

While I smugly watch non-reservers get turned away, my date gazes at the plump, golden fowl on the spit – before declaring that she (whisper) doesn’t really like chicken. I’m aghast: it’s the only main course option, you pratt. Still, if any joint can convert a chook-sceptic, it’s surely LeCoq. The rest of the menu comprises inventive starters, sides and puds, all of which change weekly. Tonight’s offerings have a Persian tang, including the sweet, more-ish lamband-pistachio meatballs with which we begin.

‘God, I bloody love lamb,' says my companion, just as the chicken arrives.

But LeCoq’s chickens aren’t any old chickens. They’re Sutton Hoo chickens.

Sutton who? Hooray. Basically, they lived a happy, free-range existence on a happy, free-range farm, and you can tell as much when you bite in. After devouring one last subtle, succulent breast, I vow never to chomp on cheap meat again.

We vamoosh the LeCoq’s perfectlycrispy roast spuds, too, washing them down with a decent on-tap Sicilian white.

For dessert, my companion’s robiola cheese is a further revelation; literally oozing with creamy flavour, and cleverly accompanied by medjool dates. All of this – excluding wine – for £22 each, too.

Bargain.

I like it here. But is my pal convinced?

Don’t count your chickens.

'I might come back on Sundays,' she olive-branches. On Sundays, you see, the spits rotate with other, non-chicken meats. Rotisserie octopus, anyone? u

● LeCoq

292-294 St Paul’s Road, N1 le-coq.co.uk

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o.90 is a large, no-frills space set by the N warehouse River Lea, overlooking the canal and what were once the desolate surrounds of Hackney Wick.

Now, of course, this is part of the 2012 Olympic regeneration zone – and in true East London style, the founders are making the most of the industrial badlands that still cling on in this corner of East London, turning the downbeat locale to their entrepreneurial advantage.

It was only a matter of time before big developers began to spread here, searching for pastures new; No.90 is pre-empting them.

Admittedly the sense of being ‘on the edge’ of things remains: you’d be right in thinking you were in the middle of nowhere, but ultimately this works to the Wick’s advantage, infusing its thriving arts, nightlife and rave scenes with the all-important ‘underground’ flavour. The new wave of eateries slots in nicely, and now there’s No.90, cooking up mean Sunday roasts. New Head Chef Boris van Meeuwan, whose culinary history includes the esteemed Nobu, has created a bespoke menu and sources his prime cuts from the much-feted Rare Breeds Company. The veggie option is unmatched in the local area. This is a real win for No.90, especially when you think of all the gastro-pubs – some of great standing – that can’t even be bothered to prepare a veggie gravy. We tucked into our nut roast with porcini gravy and in true day-after-the-night -before style, barely said a word – just wolfed down the sustenance with gratitude. ◆

● No.9 0

90 Wallis Road, E9; number90bar.co.uk

JANUARY 2015

10/12/2014 10:33

NEW KITCHENS @ SHOREDITCH

Luxury European Furniture since 1962

London & M25 Showrooms 020 7760 7558 WHARFESIDE.indd 1 absolutely-ad11.indd 1

absolutelywharfside.co.uk 18/11/2014 14:08 18/11/2014 11:47

> INTERIORS INSPIRATIONS

p. 44

FOLKSY FURNISHINGS WITH DONNA WILSON

p. 48

PENDANT POWER To mark Poul Henningsen’s 120th birthday, Louis Poulsen has launched the stylish PH 3½-3 pendant, based on the designer's original drawings from the late 1920s and early 1930s. The pendant has metal shades, available in green, yellow, red and white. £632, skandium.com

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JANUARY 2015

10/12/2014 10:34

10 of the best

heavy metal accessories 01

This month we’re all about metal magic and upcycled chic Wo r d s G e m m a B i l l i n g t o n

TOM FORD

Scent London Diffuser, £35; occa-home.co.uk

ARTISANTI

Bardem 3 Drawer Metal Dresser, £502;artisanti.com

02 03

SKULTUNA

Brass Bottle Opener, £60; conranshop.co.uk

04

ALESSI

Chip Magnetic Paper Clip Holder, £33; design55online.co.uk 05

THE CAST IRON BATH COMPANY

Marseille Cyprium Copper Bateau Bath, £2,495; castironbath.co.uk

On a Wing O sborne & Little for Multiyork

The weather outside might still be frightful, but Multiyork’s new Osborne & Little fabrics are just delightful. The collaboration between two of Britain’s most established and revered interior brands includes this whimsical butterfly print, which would have to be our pick of the bunch. Murrayfield Chair in Osborne & Little Butterfly Gardens fabric, £1,439; multiyork.co.uk

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HOMES & INTERIORS / NOTES ROWEN & WREN

Moscow Mule Copper Mugs, £18 each; rowenandwren.co.uk

editor’s

TAKE A PEW

PICK

Nigel Coates

Want to take a piece of maverick designer Nigel Coates home with you? Recently unveiled at Decorex, this striking Back to Back sofa is upholstered in Dedar fabric and is an updated version of the original, created in 2008 for Italian furniture makers Fratelli Boffi. Back to Back sofa

by Nigel Coates upholstered with Dedar fabrics, £8,300, cushions as shown £1,050;

nigelcoates.com

06 07

DOG DAYS Occa Home

They say you can’t teach an old dog new tricks, but clearly no one told this dapper off-piste pooch. This quirky Autrement Dit cushion is one of three to collect from Occa Home. We’re a tiny bit obsessed with them. £54; occa-home.co.uk

OLIVER BONAS

Double Trinket Dish, £18; oliverbonas.com 08

09

JONATHAN ADLER

Large Brass Bird Bowl, £398; uk.jonathanadler.com

SECOND LIFE Pipoca

Pipoca is a haven of upcycled and vintage furniture. The team stock eye-catching, lovingly restored homeware and also offer a bespoke ‘customer design’ service, whereby a client’s old piece of furniture can be given a new lease of life. pipoca.co.uk

BLOOMINGVALE

09

Black Table Lamp with Copper Shade, £206; debenhams.com

BOOKY NOOK The London Alcove Company

Too many books and not enough storage? Call on The London Alcove Company. Their bespoke interior cabinets and bookcases will have your beloved library neatly displayed in no time at all and there's a free design and quote service available. londonalcove.com

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SASSY HARDWICK FURNITURE

Copper Drinks Cabinet , POA; sassyhardwick.co.uk 10

JANUARY 2015

10/12/2014 10:42

62-64 Lower Clapton Road, Clapton, London, E5 0RN Tel: 020 8985 6388 - sales@harriselectricalltd.co.uk

www.harriselectricalltd.co.uk

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09/12/2014 10:13

THE SALE INSTALLATIONS AND CONNECTIONS YOU CAN TRUST Harris Electrical is a family run business that has retailed domestic appliances and home entertainment from showrooms on Lower Clapton Road, Hackney for more than 80 years.

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FOLLOW US

09/12/2014 10:13

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PROFILE

Playing House Enter the whimsical world of local designer and ‘knit revolutionary’, Donna Wilson I n t e r v i e w A b s o l u t e ly

ABSOLUTELY When did you realise you had a passion for design?

DONNA WILSON I think it was at quite a young age, I was always drawing and making things and was always most happy with a pencil in my hand. I didn’t know what I wanted to be as a child, but I knew it was going to be something to do with art and design.

more disturbing knitted creatures with two heads or extra long legs, each with their very own character; the more peculiar the better for me.

ABS How do you start your design process?

DW I usually do sketches in a notebook – they look like little cartoons, tiny bodies with huge exaggerated heads. I get their look and idea on paper first, then start knitting; usually they turn out very much like the drawings but occasionally I’ll make some out of the scraps or off-cuts.

Sometimes these rejects are just as successful as the planned ones.

ABS Where do your inspirations come from?

DW All over the place: the landscape, music, dreams, magazines, ceramics, Scandinavian design, people. Sometimes I just see a tiny snippet of something which triggers an idea, which is then developed into a product. I recently went to a small, remote island off the coast of Newfoundland and came back feeling really inspired by its landscape of boats and houses; but normally I find inspiration everywhere: it can be a tiny piece of cloth, a picture in a book or a found object from my travels. Nature is also a big inspiration for me, particularly the plants and animals in the British countryside.

ABS How did you get to where you are?

DW I studied Textile Design at Grays College of Art in Aberdeen and graduated in 1999. I then got a job in a knitwear company as an assistant designer for a year. After that I went back to college to do my MA at the Royal College of Art, where I specialised in Mixed Media Textiles. I had fantastic tutors there. At the RCA I started making products and sold them in shops like Couverture and Supra Girls London. They started off as the long, leggy dolls and evolved into the slightly

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ABS What has been the highlight of your career so far?

DW There have been so many highlights, [especially] working with a great team of people who help me to have the best job! Meeting designers like Rob Ryan and Orla Kiely, and making the creatures and props for a music video for Gideon Conn.

Also, winning the Elle Decoration British Designer of the Year award in 2010.

My SKETCHES look like CARTOONS, tiny BODIES with

HUGE EXAGGERATED heads.

ABSWhich famous artists/designers do you admire or inspire you the most?

DW I like Alexander Girard, Stig Lindberg, my grandma (but she wasn’t famous)!

Another designer I admire is Hella Jongerius – I love the sofa she did for Vitra a long time ago with the odd buttons! I’d never seen anything like this and I love the way she uses textiles and colour a lot in her work. Her designs are clever and thoughtful and have that human element.

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HOMES & INTERIORS / FEATURE ABS What five words would best describe you?

DW Colourful, smiley (most of the time), messy, bendy, Scottish.

ABS What are five things you couldn’t live without?

DW A sketchbook, a stapler, music, colourful paints, the sea.

ABS How did you learn to knit? How old were you at the time?

DW My grandma tried to teach me to knit and crochet when I was really young but I didn’t have the patience. Even now I’m not very patient for hand-knitting, I prefer to machine-knit. We were taught the basics during my BA, how to cast on and off etc.

That was in 1996, and after that I taught myself the rest to get the effect that I was looking for. I always love the way I can create a fabric from a strand of yarn in the texture, colour and pattern I want.

ABS How did it feel to have a sell-out show at the Royal College of Art? How did this affect your career plans?

DW It was very encouraging, I knew that I wanted to start my own business when I left the RCA. It gave me the confidence to exhibit at a public show called Designersblock, which opened my work up to a wider audience too. I’d never have done that if it wasn’t for the RCA. ABSYou studied in Holland for a while.

Did it influence you?

DW I took part in a student exchange to Maastricht. It was such a great experience, being completely out of my comfort zone, meeting new people, and I still have a couple of friends that I met there after 10 years.

It was great to do some of the course in a completely different environment and with different tutors. I had a really nice time.

ABS What was your first knitted creature?

What inspired you to create him/her?

DW After the long leggy creatures I made the weirder creatures. I had a small family

EVERYTHING we do is DESIGNED to make people SMILE. I love WORKING WITH COLOUR.

and I can’t remember which one came first, as they were all born around the same time: Edd Red Head, with the giant head and tiny body; Angry Ginger, who was ginger with a hairy chest; Bunny Blue, who had four sets of ears and four eyes; and Canibdoll, who was inspired by a story that was in the news at the time – a German cannibal advertised to find a mate to eat and he got a few applicants! Although the creatures sound a bit gruesome, they were not scary, they were more collectable companions that people wanted to look after.

ABS What does the job of a ‘knitting designer’ involve?

DW For my own business, I do a bit of everything, selecting colours, mood boards, designing, making samples, production, marketing, admin and everything to do with the day-to-day running of the business. I’m still learning as I go along.

ABS How did you go about establishing your online shop?

DW I had a website pretty much straight after leaving the RCA, I felt it was important for shops and customers to see what I did.

The first site was very hand-drawn and had

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HOMES & INTERIORS / FEATURE

a little animation of the creatures. I wasn’t trying to pretend I was a big company, I liked the fact that I was just starting out, was independent and could do small numbers and small quantities. The web shop took about six years to establish itself as a successful part of the business.

ABS As well as the animals we love your scarves and knitwear. How do you bring so much personality to these pieces?

DW Everything we do is designed to make people smile. I love working with colour and I think that brings a lot of personality to people.

ABS Do you have any favourite yarns you like to work with?

DW I always work with natural yarns, mainly lambswool, I love the colours you can get as well as its felting properties.

The crafted nature of the product is as important as the design process. When I’m making things I have to use the same process for each but because they’re made by hand, their form varies from one to another and when we get to the stage of stitching their features on, I create a new personality every time – embroidery is like drawing with a needle and thread. The proportions and placement gives each one a different look. People have asked me why I don’t get them mass-produced – it would certainly be less time consuming – but for me I think they would lose their charm, identity and oddness.

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ABS Do you have a favourite knitting project you’ve worked on?

DW The knitted wedding was the most fun knitting project, organised by Rachel Mathews from Cast Off. Everything from the cake to the sandwiches, dj’s microphone and even the confetti was knitted. I was a bridesmaid, and my job was to knit the 30-metre long train. Luckily I had a knitting machine with a motor on it!

ABS What’s the most challenging part of your job?

DW The business side of it, and making the right decisions about what to spend our time doing. I want everyone to feel part of the company and us all to be motivated and inspired when we come into work.

DW I love it! I think knitting is a very healthy, creative and satisfying habit. I think it’s fantastic that the stereotype is being broken.

ABS What is your favourite product in your collection?

DW My favourite product right now would be the new pie chart patchwork blanket.

I love the way it feels, the rainbow of colours, and the fact that it looks like a textile pie chart! It’s made by our seamstress Eva who makes patchwork quilts in her spare time. It’s such a lovely traditional process and this one looks really bold and colourful. I’d like to have on my wall!

ABS What do you love most about it?

DW Designing, and I have only recently given myself a bit of time to do this. I used to design in my own spare time, and on the back of an envelope on the bus! But I have been spending the last few weeks making mood boards, sketching and trying things out on the machine, and I remember why I love it. Being creative is a fantastic feeling, and I’d recommend anyone to give it a go. I also really enjoy making things that make people smile!

ABS Do you collect anything?

DW I have to try very hard not to collect too many things. If I had enough space I would collect everything as I love being surrounded by inspiring objects. I do have a shelf at home that’s got a collection of painted wooden dolls in all shapes and sizes. Some are from a trip to India, others are dolls that I’ve made, and some are lovely antique dolls with round ball heads from Japan. I love how there is a strange variation among them but that they all have nice faces. 

ABS What do you think about the increasing popularity of knitting among young people?

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n case you haven’t noticed, London and, I indeed, the whole planet has gone positively Paddington potty! On the back of his first ever live action film comes Love From Paddington, a new book from creator Michael Bond. The first Paddington book to be written from the beloved bear’s perspective, Love From Paddington is a collection of letters penned to Aunt Lucy, who lives in the Home for Retired Bears in Peru. Like the old bear himself, this book is set to become a true family favourite. ◆

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KIDS & EDUCATION / SCHOOL TALK

Cracking code

Since September 2014, ‘coding’ has replaced ICT (information and communications technology) on the new National Curriculum Wo r d s A m a n d a C o n s ta n c e

I

n its simplest terms, coding is telling a computer what you want it to do. This involves typing in step-by-step commands for the computer to follow. It’s often likened to learning a foreign language and it’s certainly double-Dutch to most parents. But in a world where coding powers our digital world, where every website, smartphone app, computer program, calculator and even microwave relies on code in order to operate, we all – but particularly children - need to understand it.

The coders of the future will be the architects and builders of the digital age.

Kathryn Parsons, chief executive and co-founder of Decoded, a company in the heart of east London’s Tech City which runs Code in a Day courses, says: 'We desperately need digital creators – talent – for the UK to be a global player in tech. Coding is the new building block for the world. There are lots of intelligent, young people out there but only a fraction of them are learning to code on the web. Bringing coding alive is essential, not just in the classroom but also by parents sitting down with their kids and learning together.

Whether you are six or 60, this has a place in everyone’s lives. Coding is the new literacy.'

Two enterprising women are bringing coding into London classrooms.

BlueSHIFT Coding was set up by Heather Lyons, a web designer and Elizabeth Tweedale, an architect, designer and computer scientist. Both have young children and a missionary zeal to get kids coding.

'Our aim is to enable young people to become creative users of technology

CODERS OF THE FUTURE will be the ARCHITECTS and BUILDERS of a DIGITAL AGE rather than passive consumers,” says Tweedale, a 30-year-old American.

'We are not trying to create a nation of computer scientists but in future we all need to have some understanding of computation,' she says.

BlueSHIFT Coding is already running classes at Chepstow House School, Wetherby and Falcon School for Girls, as well as after-school courses at the company’s studio in Monmouth Road.

Tweedale and Lyons have developed their own approach to teaching code to children between the ages of 5-12.

Tweedale explains that, traditionally, computer science has only been taught at university level and the teaching for younger children has often been

57 CHIS_JAN_Education.indd 57

a 'watered down' version. 'That just doesn’t work for children,' she says.

'It’s too slow. Have you ever seen a three-year-old work an iPad? They’re so quick, they aren’t held back by preconceived ideas.'

BlueSHIFT Coding is all about 'taking creativity in all forms in order for children to solve problems', says Tweedale. She describes a favourite project in the lessons– ‘Teddy Hacking’.

This is when the children bring in old, no longer loved soft toys and turn them into robots by adding sensors, LEDs and other micro-controls. It’s great fun.

'The huge challenge is finding teachers that can teach this,' says Tweedale. From now on, KS1 (Key Stage1) children will have to understand core elements of computer science, while those in KS2 must be able to understand and edit code and KS3 pupils must learn to be able to write their own code. At the latter stages, the teacher will need training in computer science. There is currently a huge shortage, Tweedale says.

Despite the dearth of qualified teachers there are plenty of initiatives for keen coders. Founders4Schools recently held an Appathon UK to get students to design and create an app prototype – the top three were then coded by university students and the winners were presented with their winning apps in the House of Commons last November. And Code Club, a nationwide network of volunteer-led after school coding clubs, now has more than 2,000 clubs up and running. u

blueshiftcoding.com

JANUARY 2015

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GREAT EXPECTATIONS A regular column tracking the highs and lows of pregnancy from the first inkling to the final push Wo r d s H E L E N B A R O N Illustration Annie Smith

F

or me, finding out the sex of my baby has been invaluable, allowing me to bond with her in a more precise way. In the fortnight before my 20week scan, I had started to imagine I was having a boy. It was an unconscious and pointless exercise, but I suspect countless women would admit to something similar.

When the scan arrived and the gender pendulum (the gendulum?) swung the other way, I felt a sudden and unexpected pang of disappointment as my figmentson faded into obscurity. Of course, it wasn’t long before the pang itself was replaced by gratitude, excitement and affection for my forthcoming little girl, but the experience was an interesting insight into the maternal mind: the bond between a mother and her unborn child (even, in my case, an imaginary version of it) can be incredibly swift-growing and strong.

In a bid to better understand and strengthen this bond, I returned to hypnobirthing, this time with the aid of birth preparation expert Cheryl MacDonald, founder of Birth ROCKS. Cheryl and her specialist team (which includes midwives, massage therapists and yoga teachers) founded the Birth ROCKS Academy, which offers courses and therapies for new and expectant parents.

Courses can be designed around your preferences, and look to slow down the often hectic hurtle towards birth, allowing you to plan and prepare properly for what is, after all, a major life experience (and possibly a brand new one).

I now FEEL much

The team also runs Baby ROCKS, a course which addresses the practical side of parenting once baby has arrived. My hypnobirthing session was impressive, and went a long way to explaining the link between relaxation and stress-free birth while breaking down various lingering fears. I now feel much more accustomed

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MORE ACCUSTOMED to the IDEA of LABOUR as a NATURAL PROCESS to the idea of labour as a natural process, one in which the calmer I am, the more stress-free and straightforward it will be.

My partner – usually quite the cynic – echoed my sentiments, having found the mindfulness aspect of the session a bit of an eye-opener.

Of course, even as I’ve been learning to relax and prepare for a positive birth, I’ve been gearing up for the practical side of having a baby. Researching strollers and all manner of other accessories is quite a task. Amid a mountain of reviews, reports, test-drives and best-buys, one stroller stood out for us: the Mamas & Papas Urbo2: lightweight, manoeuvrable and adaptable from birth to 36 months and up. It also folds down easily – great for me, as I’m not the most mechanically adroit. The stroller is available in a range of sleek colours and there’s even a special edition printed version featuring a design

by Donna Wilson; it is also compatible with the Cybex Aton Q car seat, which is the best in the business. Alongside my very desirable new baby-changing rucksack by Kipling - think grainy black leather, moisture-proof inner lining, all sorts of useful pockets and a changing mat to boot – it has me ready and raring to go. All I need now is the baby… 

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> R'N'R AT IN:SPA RETREAT, MOROCCO

p. 62

UK GETAWAY: BARNSLEY HOUSE p. 66

RELAX & UNWIND Writer Alexandra Jones takes steps to a healthier and happier lifestyle for the New Year at the beautiful In:Spa Retreat just outside Marrakech, Morocco. See page 62 for a review of her life-changing experience.

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XXXXXX / XXXXXXX WELLNESS

ALL CHANGE If the festive season has left you with a muffin top and a perpetual hangover, an in:spa retreat is the perfect detox break Wo r d s A l e x a n d r a J o n e s

T

o give you a sense of what you’re dealing with, I’ll begin with a few admissions. Firstly, I never really ‘got’ yoga. It seemed to me a hobby that people who never exercise take up to make themselves feel better about not exercising. Secondly, sugar has been a ruling force in my life ever since I discovered the joys of the school vending machine; because really, what’s better than a 4pm snack of two Mars bars and a packet of Maltesers? This appreciation – some would call it an addiction – has dogged me through my whole podgyaround-the-middle life. It was something that I had resigned myself to: I would always, always be the person who ate a second dessert and skipped spinning. It’s just how I was made.

The idea of in:spa, then, intrigued me.

The company offers week-long detox retreats. You go along to a luxury location (be it villa, hotel or riad) in a sunsoaked country and, along with a group of strangers (between 10 and 20 in total), are schooled by a nutritionist, personal

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trainers, a yoga instructor and a chef in all the intricacies of health and wellbeing.

There is a full exercise timetable, including two hikes and two 5km runs, and all meals are prepared by the chef – who flies out with you. The retreat I attended was in Morocco and, while I’m not sure I learned anything groundbreaking about nutrition or exercise, I did learn a great deal about myself. In fact, if I were prone to hyperbole, I’d say this holiday changed my life.

The riad itself, a few miles outside Marrakech, was picture-postcard perfect.

On the first night, our group of twelve nervously eyed one another across the main atrium and Mel – the nutritionist who had flown out with us from the UK – explained that we would have as much opportunity to explore as we wanted.

“Above all else, this is a holiday, none of the activities are compulsory,” she assured us. Everyone, however, seemed game enough; the group was made up almost entirely of women, a doctor and an ambulance driver among them. There was one man, a burned-out entrepreneur escaping from too many hours in the office.

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TRAVEL / MOROCCO THE feeling of ACHIEVEMENT was INCREDIBLE Each day we’d partake in a programme that included at least an hour of yoga and two to three hours of aerobic exercise in the form of fitness classes run by a personal trainer. This would be supplemented with one-on-one tutoring in food and fitness. Thankfully, this did not entail hardcore workouts at 5am; there was no military-style shouting and for real fitness fanatics in:spa probably isn’t the right way to go. The earliest you rise is 7am, for a 5km run which you can actually walk, if you like. I ran – it was the first time I’d run 5km in my life and the

feeling of achievement was incredible.

For those of middling ability (me) who go to the gym only sporadically but desire to go more, in:spa is a balm for your motivation levels. You’re not going to leave transformed but you will be inspired to try.

All meals are eaten en masse and (apart from dinner) in a buffet style, so you can help yourself. Food throughout the week is treated with a lot of positivity: the focus is very much on what you can have, not what you can’t. For breakfast this means quite a lot: eggs, fruit, glutenfree buckwheat pancakes, vegan bircher muesli – all delicious. Ditto lunch: think chargrilled chicken, homemade hummus, carrot salad with raisins and tamarind dressing. For both of these meals you’re invited to go for two helpings, or three if you really want. The only restrictions come around dinner time – dinner is two small courses with little flexibility in portion size. Of course you can request more, but then that’s sort of defeating

the point. I can’t say that I was hungry, though those first few days without sugar certainly left me craving something sweet.

Things like portion control or how each meal should be balanced (50% greens and vegetables, 25% carb, 25% protein) are dealt with in no-nonsense group sessions with the nutritionist. On the one hand, these sessions don’t necessarily cover new territory, but they certainly hammer home the basic facts that you blithely ignore when you pick a packet of crisps over carrot sticks. There are also oneon-one sessions with the nutritionist that are designed to be as specific as possible

MARRAKECH PALMERIE Morocco

to helping each individual achieve their goal. Very few people in the group seemed to be there to lose weight, and in:spa as a company certainly don’t make any claims about helping you shed pounds. The approach is more holistic – each person’s needs are assessed before the meeting, then the nutritionist doles out advice on a case by case basis. Predictably, my addiction to sugar was the main topic

65 C&A_JAN_ Morocco.indd 65

under discussion. “If you can go without it for three weeks, your habit will be broken,” explained Mel. Three weeks to break the habit of a lifetime? I didn’t quite believe her, but after the first few days, when the cravings had subsided, I was willing to give it a try.

In the weeks following the retreat there are things that, irrespective of how beneficial they were at the time, I haven’t been able to stick with. No alcohol, for example. For the most part, though, I am sugar-free and exercising more than I have ever done in my life.

The genius of in:spa is that everything on offer is absolutely top-notch. Advice from a wonderful team, food from an exceptional chef, accommodation in a beautiful setting; at the very least you’ll leave with the deep sense of calm that only seven nights of blissful sleep can supply. And at most, you could end up like me – not wholly transformed, but with far more faith in your own ability to change. I couldn’t recommend it highly enough. u

u Seven nights at the in:spa luxury health and detox retreat starts at £1,895 across a variety of in:spa programmes and locations, including Morocco, Spain and France. Prices are based on two sharing a small double room on an all-inclusive basis. Prices include seven nights all-inclusive accommodation, all group physical activities, one nutrition consultation, one personal training session, two massages and airport transfers. Prices exclude flights.

● in:spa retre ats

020 3235 0120; inspa-retreats.com

JANUARY 2015

09/12/2014 12:26

TRAVEL / UK GETAWAY THE HOTEL

T

he handsome and intimate late 17th century former home of inspirational horticulturalist Rosemary Verey (whose beautiful garden frames the building) is the setting for this Cotswold hotel.

Eschewing a chintzy or old-timey decor scheme, the house provides the ideal bolt-hole for stressed-out Londoners, a holistic hideaway for those seeking some pastoral downtime with the mod cons of their urban lives still intact.

Our room was in the old building with a bay window overlooking the garden.

Our bathroom was huge, with quaintly slanting wooden floors, double sinks and a rainforest shower, its glitzy tiles in contrast to the neutral decor of the bedroom. The spa experience was extended to the room with a huge hot tub featuring more knobs than we knew what to do with. Expect to be in your robe for much of your stay. With only 18 rooms, the hotel is boutique-y, and the spa (which is reached by a picturesque woodland walkway) is a big draw, with five treatment rooms, a sauna, steam room, relaxation room and – the jewel in the crown – a heated hydrotherapy pool, much enjoyed in colder months thanks to its steam-misted view of the surrounding cow-studded pastures. 

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THE RESTAURANT

W

e dined at The Potager Restaurant – another reference to the esteemed Ms Verey and her famous ornamental vegetable garden. It makes sense then that the vegetables themselves come straight from garden to fork. Specialist vegetables are the stars of the plate here. The Sunday roast draws many a local, as we learned the next day at checkout – the whole house was abuzz with the kind of comings and goings you might expect at Downtown Abbey, guests piling into the drawing room to start proceedings with a glass of fizz. The restaurant itself looks straight out onto the hotel’s main lawn and in the summer months meals can be enjoyed on the picturesque terrace. 

THE AREA

B

ibury is the prettiest village I’ve encountered in the Cotswolds (and just a short drive from the area ‘capital’ of Cirencester).

Arlington Row is a strip of neatly assembled weaver’s cottages built of local stone – which makes a welcome change from the honey-coloured stone with which the area is so synonymous.

The village sits astride the River Coln and next to the Bibury Trout Farm and Saxon church of St Mary. The cottages were built in 1380 as a monastic wool store and are one of the most photographed scenes in the Cotswolds. 

THE DAMAGE Rooms start at £290 per night.

Barnsley House, Barnsley, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL7 5EE; 01285 740000; barnsleyhouse.com

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66 10/12/2014 11:05

N G I DES E L SA

Cenova sofa: NOW 25% off in any fabric or leather

SAVE UP TO

50%

The BoConcept Winter Design Sale is now on. Enjoy great savings of up to 25% on our furniture and accessories with unmissable deals of up to 50% off our clearance and ex-display items.

Drop by to see these and all the other great offers available exclusively in-store. And, don't forget our friendly and professional design consultants are on hand to offer you our free interior design service to help you make the best out of your home.

BoConcept Finchley Road: O2 Centre, 255 Finchley road, London NW3 6LU T 0207 794 8049 boconcept.co.uk See our SALE OFFERS in stores now

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

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

Hema

Partner, Enfranchisement and Commercial Property

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

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

PROPERTY LAW SERVICE

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

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

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10/03/2014 11:44

Property Absolutely

January 2 0 1 5

> PROPERTY ROUND UP p. 76 IN THEIR OWN WORDS p.80 NIGEL LEWIS p. 74

Oakleigh Park South, N20

Price On Application

Two exclusive six bedroom luxury homes situated in the leafy area of Oakleigh Park. An exceptional standard of traditional elegance and comfort with state-of-the art technology throughout.

020 8343 4340

martyngerrard.co.uk

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Hampstead

ÂŁ3,950 pw Furnished

6 Bedrooms | 4 Receptions | 4 Bathrooms | Detached House Garden | Near Amenities | EPC - G | Sole Agents Hampstead 020 3503 0908 hamp@brlets.co.uk

Eleven offices open six days a week Monday - Saturday Beaufort Park | Canary Wharf | City | Ealing | Greenwich | Hampstead | Highgate | Hyde Park | Imperial Wharf | Kensington | Knightsbridge Additional charges apply: Tenancy Agreement, Credit Check & Inventory Report. For details visit www.brlets.co.uk/tenantinfo

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To arrange a viewing or for more information call

020 7319 9783

Highbury

£375 pw Furn/Unfurnished

London’s Letting Agency

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

Beaufort Park

£500 pw Furnished

1 Bedroom | Reception | 1 Bathroom | Apartment 24hr Porter | Communal Gardens | EPC – B | Sole Agents Highgate 020 3302 2601 high@brlets.co.uk

2 Bedrooms | Reception | 2 Bathrooms | Penthouse Apartment Balcony | Parking | On-site Amenities | EPC – C | Sole Agents Beaufort Park 020 3503 0017 bp@brlets.co.uk

Highgate

Hampstead

£675 pw Unfurnished

3 Bedrooms | Reception | 2 Bathrooms | Apartment Balcony | Communal Garden | Near Tube | EPC – D Highgate 020 3302 2601 high@brlets.co.uk

£1,195 pw Furn/Unfurnished

3 Bedrooms | Reception | 2 Bathrooms | Apartment Parking | Private Courtyard | Near The Heath | EPC – D Hampstead 020 3503 0908 hamp@brlets.co.uk

Dubai | Hong Kong | India | Malaysia | Singapore

B&R_NXNW.indd 2

09/12/2014 15:58

PROPERTY | NIGEL LEWIS

London's MOST POPULAR

Nigel Lewis, Absolutely's resident property writer, takes a look at London's most viewed property: 22 Lyndhurst Road, Hampstead

T

here are 58,596 properties listed for sale in London at the moment and at the time of writing this was the most viewed online of any of them. It’s also the most expensive house for sale in the capital although it’s not the dearest property – an apartment within One Hyde Park in Knightsbridge is currently listed at £64.9 million which, I know, is a lot of money for a five bedroom flat. Better value is to be had if you buy 22 Lyndhurst Road in Hampstead (it has a garden, for starters) as well as an interesting history. Over the past four years it has been owned by a high profile Russian oligarch who in turn bought it off a London property magnate.

Both men have spent considerable sums doing the property up and the house now

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features a very high standard of interior finish. Highlights include an Ionic columnlined indoor swimming pool and a smaller outdoor pool too plus one of the grandest entrance halls in London, according to selling agent Grant Alexson of Knight Frank, in which a huge ornate stone fireplace stands sentinel.

The property, which is on the market for £46.5 million, has been viewed on Zoopla by over 80,000 people since it came on the market in June this year. Such popularity would please the man who built this seven bedroom, six bathroom house in 1896 – Liberal Party MP and shipping millionaire Russell Rea, who twice made it into parliament representing both Gloucester and later South Shields.

What he probably wouldn’t recognise are its interiors, which are distinctly modern. This includes what Grant Alexson

describes as an opulently decorated ‘man cave’ cum office with wood panelling plus there’s a steam room, space for up to eight cars and a dining room that comfortably seats 18 people.

What most buyers might find astounding is that such a large, 14,700 sq ft property with a carriage drive and half acre back garden is to be found in the busy streets between Hampstead and Belsize Park tube stations, both of which are a short walk from the house.

But the area has, since it was first developed in the late 1860s, been a favoured spot for affluent Londoners looking for seclusion, civilisation and space away from the madness of central London. And anyone who thinks recent arrivals to the UK owning properties in this area is a new trend should remember that a wealthy Turkish diplomat once lived in nearby Rosslyn Lodge during the 1850s – a house that has sadly now been demolished.

And a nice link to this delightful diplomat is that Knight Frank reckons the property to be ‘ambassadorial’, which indeed it could be – although the children’s slide that runs down from the property’s rear sun terrace to the garden reveals a cheekier, less serious side.

74 09/12/2014 10:47

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01/12/2014 09:54

Property Round Up St. James Close Terrace Mews, NW8

HOUSE HUNTING with...

MARK NEVIN

Sales Manager at KFH, St John’s Wood 020 7586 8001; kfh.co.uk

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PROPERTY ROUND UP.2.indd 2

Most satisfying transaction I’ve had: We were marketing an incredibly beautiful refurbished house in Primrose Hill, however the sale was stalling due to a problematic buyer who kept haggling on the price. We found another buyer and arranged an exchange of contracts in just four hours, at a higher price!

Most interesting property I’ve been involved with: We once marketed a property in a mansion block which had four different leases and three different addresses! The property had a staircase leading to the platform of Baker Street Station! It was very Harry Potteresque!

The property I’d most like on our books is: I have always had a passion for complex, unusual or unique properties, however, lovely large and refurbished homes are always top of my list.

Most unusual interior: I marketed a house in Marylebone which was featured in House & Garden Magazine in the 70s. Despite over 30 years elapsing, the interiors were still identical – it was like walking into a 1970s museum!

I never thought I’d see: The property market crash, but in 2008 it did! Luckily we saw things start to recover within 6 months.

Finest Property Showcase: St. James Close Terrace Mews, St John’s Wood, NW8. £2,500,000 Share of Freehold. A newly constructed three bedroom, three bathroom mews house.

The property benefits from great natural light, superb fittings and a generous amount of entertaining space.

76 09/12/2014 10:49

PROPERTY | NEWS The INSIDE SCOOP of NEWS in your area HEMA ANAND

Skyline - New horizons at Woodberry Down Skyline, a new collection of 135 one, two and three-bedroom apartments, is the latest addition to Berkeley Homes’ much sought after Woodberry Down development. Well located in London’s N4, the development is one of the city’s most significant regeneration projects which, when complete, will provide more than 5,500 new homes.

The development, which is situated on the banks of the New River and West and East Reservoirs, overlooks more than 42 acres of tranquil open water and is set to be an exemplary residential district for 21st century living. At 30-storeys, Skyline is the tallest building in the Woodberry Down project and will be the iconic focal point at the heart of

Harley Place, Marylebone, W1 £3,500,000

Working with the architect behind the exclusive new Chiltern Firehouse and the legendary shop fitter Pat Carter, who has dressed most of Regent Street, the current owner has created a Marylebone mews home vastly different to its neighbours. 7 Harley Place does not conform to the country cottage look most favoured by those dressing mews houses – the plain black walls stand in stark contrast to the flower lined window sills to either side, making a statement on this quiet Marylebone Street. 7 Harley Place is the result of architectural passion and mirrors a way of playing with space which is

the 64-acre site, not only a landmark for the scheme but also a benchmark for modern architecture in North London.

Prices at Skyline start at £425,000 for a one-bedroom apartment, with first completions in 2017.

Berkeley Group 0208 985 9918; berkeleygroup.co.uk

rarely seen in Britain. The marble staircase is boarded by glass in the same way as a sculpture in a gallery, the first floor terrace is the glass roof of the bathroom and the light boxes flood the reception room.

Druce, Marylebone & Fitzrovia 020 7935 6535; druce.com Knight Frank; 020 7499 1012

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Spotlight on

NW8

Average asking price £2,735,280 Average asking rent £6,291 pcm Average property value £1,335,976

Q.We are a block of 8 flats considering Right to Manage (RTM), please can you explain the responsibilities RTM entitles us to take over?

S

ubject to meeting the relevant criteria set out in The Commonhold and Leasehold Reform Act 2002, the management of your block transfers to the Right to Manage company (the RTM company) which is a company set up by the leaseholders. To better understand the responsibilities RTM entitles you to, you must consider the terms of your leases. Essentially, the lease contains the landlord’s duties and obligations most of which the RTM company shall be entitled to take over. For example, these include arranging the buildings insurance, major works, repair and maintenance of the building, and the supply of services which may include heating, hot water, cleaning and lighting common parts.

There are certain obligations that the RTM company is not entitled to manage which includes collecting and receiving the ground rent and the ability to forfeit i.e. bring the lease to an end. Do also bear in mind that the landlord is entitled to be a member of the RTM company and where the landlord’s permission is required under the terms of the lease you are still required to defer matters to the landlord. The management of a building does not stem solely from the terms of your leases. There is in place significant legislation that governs the landlord’s management of a building and you would be required to comply with such requirements as well. As a result, whilst it is not necessary, it is advisable to consider employing managing agents to ensure that the building is properly managed in accordance with the terms of the leases and statutory requirements.

Contact property partner Hema Anand with no obligation on (0)20 7354 3000 or email hema.anand@colmancoyle.com www.colmancoyle.com 80 Upper Street, Islington, N1 0NU

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FROM COLMAN COYLE GIVES HER EXPERT ADVICE ON ALL YOUR LEGAL PROPERTY QUESTIONS

JANUARY 2015

09/12/2014 10:50

LANDMARK POSITION…

LoNg sTaNdiNg NamE you CaN RELy oN.

12 Topsfield Parade Crouch End London N8 8PR 020 8348 5515 www.castles-estateagents.co.uk

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020 8348 5515

crouch.end@castles-estateagents.co.uk

www.castles-estateagents.co.uk

Rathcoole Gardens, N8

ÂŁ1,100,000 FREEHOLD

Exceptionally well-presented five-bedroom family home. Ideally positioned equidistantly between Crouch End Broadway and Hornsey British Rail Station with both Rokesly and Weston Park schools within a moments walk away. The property offers an abundance of space and bright rooms throughout and further comprises through reception, kitchen diner, guest ground floor wc, family bathroom and a private and desired south west facing garden.

Ferme Park Road, N8

ÂŁ560,000 LEASEHOLD

An attractive and spacious two-bedroom, split level apartment. Set on the ground floor of this attractive period mansion block and retaining many of the original period features. Conveniently located within a short walk of the heart of Crouch End Broadway with its variety of independent retailers, bars and cafes. Comprising two bedrooms, reception, kitchen/ diner and bathroom. Further benefiting from own basement storage and access to well-maintained communal gardens.

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PROPERTY | PROFILE

IN THEIR OWN WORDS

Stephanie Powell Lettings Manager Edmund Cude, Camden

G

Photography: rebecca noonan

rowing up in the countryside on the outskirts of London, I had always dreamt of working in London and Edmund Cude made this a reality for me. Having joined the Camden branch of Edmund Cude in 2013, I've had the pleasure of seeing the office grow and really go from strength to strength. I have worked in estate agency for over eight years now and I have enjoyed working in diverse and fun areas across London but I've really settled down here in Camden.

From students to professionals, the locals and my fantastic team, I love the mix of people I encounter here on a daily basis. In our office there is never a dull day for us.

In my personal time I enjoy walking through the popular Camden markets, experiencing all of world foods on offer and when I have the time, sourcing the hidden treasures that can be found in what has become one of the most popular attractions in London. Camden has always been very popular for music with numerous venues on residents' doorsteps. Personally, I enjoy gigs at Barfly and as an office we often make the trip to the Jazz Cafe (a few doors down from the office!).

You will often find me in there at the weekends.

Walks along the canal and also through the nearby Regent's Park remind me of my childhood. In the heart of Primrose Hill or watching a show at the Open Air Theatre you can soon forget you are in the middle of one of the world’s busiest cities.

Behind every door in Camden there is a different story, from studio flats to houses of six or more beds, and everything in between. I

very much enjoy visiting the varied range of properties, from the shabby to the grand, meeting landlords, advising them how to make the most of their property and getting the best return.

From a personal point of view, my clients and team alike would describe me as an incredibly hard working, honest, driven and a what-yousee-is-what-you-get individual. I always strive to deliver the highest possible customer service and seek to do the very best job for my clients. I have been lucky enough to both receive thanks and build lasting friendships with clients, which is extremely rewarding. Estate agency is a fantastic line of work to be in, it is an incredibly gratifying job finding tenants for landlords and in turn finding tenants their perfect homes. I owe many thanks to my wonderful colleagues that I work with at Edmund Cude; we have a very strong, enthusiastic team who really understand both the market and the local area that we work in.

2014 was a very busy year throughout in both lettings and sales. Rental yields have started to level off but activity has remained very high in Camden and the North London area in general. I believe that with current market conditions and the general election fast approaching, the rental market will only continue its current success throughout the New Year and I very much look forward to continuing working with my wonderful clients.

Here's to a fantastic 2015!

020 7482 1060; edmundcude.com

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Fortismere Avenue, Muswell Hill, N10

£1,675,000 Freehold. Joint Sole Agents

Situated within the Fortis Green conservation area is this well presented four bedroom plus loft room linked terraced turn of the Century family residence. This fine home is being offered in good decorative order and retains an abundance of original period features throughout. Benefits also include a 20’8 kitchen/diner which leads out to a delightful secluded and mature 78’ rear garden.

The house is situated within a moments walk to Muswell Hill Broadway and its excellent range of shops and restaurants. It is also within the catchment area of Tetherdown primary and Fortismere secondary schools. Within easy access of Highgate and East Finchley tube stations (Northern Line). There is currently planning permission for the erection of a rear dormer in place of an existing roof light – thus creating a 5th bedroom/office with suitable head height (please ask a member of staff of further details).

Contact our Muswell Hill Office on 020 8444 1771

Creighton Avenue, Muswell Hill, N10

£1,499,500 Freehold. Main Agents

A superb opportunity to purchase this attractive bay fronted semi detached 1930’s built house located within the Fortismere, Coldfall and Eden school catchment. The property although well presented would benefit modernization with ample scope to extend and incorporate the large head height basement with three large rooms, and potential to extend (subject to the necessary consents) into the loft space. Benefiting off street parking and garage, decked verandah and large rear garden. Situated within equidistance to Muswell Hill Broadway and East Finchley High Road (Underground station approximately 0.9 miles).

Contact our Muswell Hill Office on 020 8444 1771

BRANCHES AT MUSWELL HILL, CROUCH END AND EAST FINCHLEY TATLERS_NXNW.indd 1

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www.tatlers.co.uk

High Street, Crouch End, N8

£530,000 Share of Freehold. Sole Agents

Light, airy, spacious with well-appointed rooms this hall floor two bedroom apartment which offers comfortable living space.

The sitting room is striking and boasts a bay with floor to ceiling windows and strip wood working shutters with views over the communal gardens. There is a newly fitted kitchen and bathroom and the two bedrooms are generous doubles. The aspect to the front and rear of the property are green and leafy. Built circa 1850 the ceiling heights add to the sense of space and the communal areas are not compromised. Parking to the front of the property is available on a first come first serve basis. There are local shops close by and Crouch End Broadway is easily accessible. Transport links to central London are very good with Hornsey station moments away. This apartment comes highly recommended.

Contact our Crouch End Office on 020 8341 4050

Hertford Road, East Finchley, N2

£1,200,000 Freehold. Main Agents

This immaculate four-bedroom contemporary house in East Finchley was built approximately three years ago to a design by Syte Architects. Arranged over two floors only, providing generously proportioned lateral space and large expanses of glazing. The traditional layout has been inverted, with the main sleeping accommodation placed downstairs and the living space upstairs to make the most of the natural light. The property benefits a modern kitchen and dining room with a reception room at the rear accessed via a glazed walkway. Located within a short walk of East Finchley’s shops and amenities, the Underground station (Northern Line) and Martin Primary School. Highgate, Crouch End and Muswell Hill are all close at hand.

Contact our East Finchley Office on 020 8883 1001

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London’s Finest Residences 74 - 76 Chiltern Street, Marylebone w1 Six premier and penthouse residences providing an abundance of luxury living space, private roofgardens, balconies and 5-star amenities including – • Restaurant in-room dining • Wine cellars with tasting room • State of the art Gymnasium • Private Cinema • Private Art Gallery by David Bailey

M a r k e t i n g S u i t e AT 1 1 - 1 5 W i g m o r e S t r e e t, L o n d o n W 1 PRICES ON APPLICATION For more information about The Chilterns or to arrange a private appointment, please contact Oksana d’Offay on +44 (0)20 8418 1070 or email oksana@thechilternsw1.com CGI of Private Lobby Gallery and Garden Terrace

www.TheChilternsW1.com

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05/12/2014 16:46

Smart knows where to be seen when selling.

Over 30 million visits per month

ZOOPLA JAN.indd 1 Zest Adverts_Jan2014.indd 3

26/11/2014 08/01/2014 17:04 09:34

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12/08/2014 14:53

MH Costa construction is a privately owned, London based construction company that is re-defining the art of quality renovations and craftsmanship in the region’s property industry. Proudly demonstrating more than 25 years of industry success in a highly competitive and dynamic arena, MH Costa commands an impressive portfolio of exquisitely regenerated and refurbished properties.

For more information call +44 (0) 208 450 7341, email info@mhcosta.com or vistit our website www.mhcosta.com

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Offices throughout London

Regents Court, NW8

ÂŁ620,000

A contemporary one bedroom apartment set on the sixth floor of this prestigious gated apartment building. Offering a bright and airy living space featuring a spacious reception room opening onto private balcony. Regent Court also comes with the benefits of a private parking space, on site residents gym, and concierge. Located ideally to the shops and amenities of St John's Wood while further benefiting from its placement moments from Regent's Park. Leasehold. EPC = C Camden Office | 020 7482 8920 | Camden@edmundcude.com

Camden High Street, NW1

ÂŁ880,000

A contemporary two double bedroom two bathroom & shower room apartment set on the third floor of this newly refurbished block ideally located opposite Camden Town tube station. This stylish property features high ceilings, modern shower room and kitchen. Ideally situated in the heart of Camden Town next to great transport links and local amenities. This property is offered on a chain free basis with a lease in excess of 200 years.

Leasehold. EPC = B Camden Office | 020 7482 8920 | Camden@edmundcude.com

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

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Caroline Close, N10

£315,000

The Avenue, NW6

£470,000

Set within a secure development in desirable Muswell Hill. It is this beautifully presented one double bedroom ground floor apartment. Offering light interiors, the property consists a spacious double bedroom, separate lounge, fitted kitchen and a family bathroom. Offered on a chain free basis.

A truly bright and very spacious two bedroom garden apartment occupying an imposing Victorian period property situated on one of most sought after tree lined roads that is within close proximity to the underground and overground station. On the door step is the vibrant queens park.

Camden Office 020 7482 8920Camden@edmundcude.com

Camden Office 020 7482 8920Camden@edmundcude.com

Centre Heights, NW3

Finchley Road, NW3

£500,000

£1,950,000

Cash Purchasers Only. Located in a smart block with lift this two bedroom apartment set over two floors offers naturally bright living space and a private balcony offering incredible views of London.

A rare opportunity to obtain this semi detached house which is currently designed to cater for seven self contained studio rooms and a one bedroom apartment for rentals. Perfectly situated on Finchley Road, the area offers many shops, restaurants and bars. EPC = C

Camden Office 020 7482 8920Camden@edmundcude.com

Camden Office 020 7482 8920Camden@edmundcude.com

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

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50 years of fulfilling dreams

...for all generations

CONISTON ROAD, MUSWELL HILL, N10

£1,400,000

A four/five bedroom Edwardian home presented in excellent condition located a short distance from Muswell Broadway.

THE OWNERS LOVE… “The great neighbours we have had during the many years we have enjoyed in this great family home” “The convenient location near several parks including Alexandra Palace, Highgate Woods and Queens Woods” “The abundance of original period features that are found throughout the house”

WE’VE NOTICED… The lower ground floor has its own entrance and shower room so could be self-contained • 4 Bedrooms • 3 Reception rooms • Basement room with en-suite shower • Kitchen and Utility room • Period features • Family bathroom and two shower rooms • Energy rating: D

Muswell Hill office • T: 020 8444 3388 • E: N10@martyngerrard.co.uk • 300/302 Muswell Hill Broadway, Muswell Hill, London N10 2QR MG_NXNW.indd 1

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50 years of fulfilling dreams

...for all generations

MOUNT VIEW ROAD, STROUD GREEN, N4

£950,000

An outstanding three double bedroom ground floor period conversion with grand rooms and high ceilings, period features and a huge 33m (108’) private garden.

THE OWNERS LOVE… “The combination of high ceilings and open fires. It’s grand and cosy at the same time”

WE’VE NOTICED… There is a good sized cellar running underneath the hallway • 3 Double bedrooms

“When I’m in the garden I can forget I’m in London, the wind in the trees sounds like the sea!”

• Large reception with bay window

“It’s perfectly positioned between Crouch End and Stroud Green, take your pick!”

• Spacious bathroom with separate shower

• Kitchen/diner

• Wonderful large garden with side access • Garden studio & cellar • Energy rating: E

Crouch End office • T: 020 8348 5135 • E: N8@martyngerrard.co.uk • 45 The Broadway, Crouch End, London N8 8DT MG_NXNW.indd 2

www.martyngerrard.co.uk 09/12/2014 15:59

to u r w yo e. no ise om ire m h qu sto ew En cu ke n lp o he esp b

02/12/2014 16:12

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GARDENVALE APPLEGROVE