NOTTING HILL DECEMBER 2015 by ABSOLUTELY Magazines

NOTTING HILL

DECEMBER 2015 / £3.95

SCREEN SAVERS

THE ENDURING APPEAL OF FILM POSTERS

EDINA RONAY ON ACTING, DESIGNING AND FASHION

SOPHIE’S CHOICE

CHRISTMAS WITH THE CONRANS

FESTIVE FASHION

’TIS THE SEASON TO DRESS UP

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An exceptional three bedroom house, occupying approximately 1,815 sq ft with the advantage of a lovely south-facing garden and terrace.

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ABSOLUTELY COMPETITION

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Dece mbe r 2015

108 18

c u lt u r e WHAT’S ON

Diary dates for December

47 SHINE ON

The molten accessories and metallic pieces to buy for Christmas

33 SHOW TIME

48 UP ALL NIGHT

fa s h i o n 36 FASHION CONFIDENTIAL

54 THE SECRET’S IN THE SOLE

38 EDINA RONAY

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y 64 BEAUTY CONFIDENTIAL

We round up the best Christmas shows to see over the holidays

This month’s hottest trends and products Meet the Budapest-born designer whose garments have shaped British fashion

Striking partywear that’ll ensure all eyes are on you this festive season

Sargossa shoe designer Nanna Liv discusses her stylish (and comfortable) footwear

December’s best beauty buys

Food & Drink 75 KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL The latest openings and food news

77 FOODIE GIFT GUIDE Tasty treats for the gourmand

78 RECIPES: DAYLESFORD COVERS: C H O PA R D c h o p a rd .c o.u k

Christmas & Boxing Day bird

87 EATING OUT

Pendle Harte tries Austen’s BBQ

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UK.BURBERRY.COM

37 75 interiors 90 INTERIORS NOTES

Key industry news, and ‘It’ products

95 SOPHIE’S WORLD

How the Conran prodigy does Christmas

t r av e l 108 COOL THING

Gemma Billington parties hard at Val d’Isère

PROPERTY 128 PROPERTY ROUND-UP

The latest news and views on the area

DECEMBER 2015

25/11/2015 14:36

DONNA IDA CHELSEA 1 0 6 D R AY C OT T AV E N U E LONDON SW3 3AE DONNA IDA BELGRAVIA 40 ELIZABETH STREET LONDON SW1W 9NZ W W W. D O N N A I D A . C O M

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EDITOR PENDLE HARTE EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS ELYSIA AGNEW, PEARL BOYD, AMANDA CONSTANCE, EVE HERBERT EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS ELIZABETH HUTTON, STEPHANIE KING CONTRIBUTING FASHION EDITOR CHARLOTTE ADSETT CONTRIBUTING INTERIOR EDITOR JESSICA KLINGELFUSS PROPERTY DIRECTOR ANDY ELMER PROPERTY EXECUTIVE BOBBY WATSON GROUP COMMERCIAL MANAGER JAMES FUSCHILLO SENIOR ADVERTISING ACCOUNT MANAGER ROCHELLE STREATER MAJOR ACCOUNTS DIRECTOR TAMSIN LUCK ART DIRECTOR RAY SEARLE SENIOR DESIGNERS PAWEL KUBA, PHIL COUZENS PRODUCTION MANAGER STEWART HYDE MIDWEIGHT DESIGNER EKREM YILMAZ JUNIOR DESIGNER REBECCA NOONAN FREELANCE DESIGNER NATALIE DOURADO FINANCE DIRECTOR ALEXANDRA HVID PA TO THE DIRECTORS MARIANNE MCFADDEN DIRECTORS GREG HUGHES, ALEXANDRA HUNTER MANAGING DIRECTOR SHERIF SHALTOUT For editorial enquiries please email: pendle@zest-media.com For advertising enquiries please call 020 7704 0588 or email: advertising@zest-media.com Subscriptions are available simply by emailing christina@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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First Floor, 197 City Road, Old Street, London EC1 1JN 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. All rights reserved.

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EDITOR’S letter

verybody loves a Christmas tree. Where to get yours? Portobello Road is the obvious place, though in recent years there has been competition, not least from the faux contenders. The standard of fakery improves every year but for many of us nothing artificial will ever compare to the actual thing, however pretty they make them. And even arguing that buying one tree for life makes the faux tree a sustainable one isn't a strong enough point when you consider the Christmas Forest, Lonson's most ethical supplier. For each tree sold – and they're mostly grown in the UK to save on tree miles – they promise to plant another one in the African drylands. They have already planted over 150,000 trees this way to date, changing lives for some of the most deprived families in the world. Because if charity and community spirit can't thrive at Christmas, then when can they? There are pop-up Christmas Forests all over London, including one at St

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John's Church, Harrow Road, as well as an online store, so pay them a visit. On the subject of community, there are Christmas parties all over the area. On 2 December it's Clarendon Cross, where local businesses including Cowshed, The Cross, Sumerill & Bishop and Harper & Toms will be hosting festivities with a live steel band as well as drinks, nibbles and discounts. On 3 December there's a similar event in Westbourne Grove, with drinks and tastings at Daylesford and other spots. Wherever you'll be, we hope you have a good one. Happy Christmas from all of us at Absolutely. ◆

Pendle Harte Editor

DECEMBER 2015

26/11/2015 09:17

SUN BLOCK

Getting some winter sun this month? We are, and we’ll be protecting our eyes in style with these incredible blue mirror lens glasses from Delalle. £230; de-lalle.com

Things We

ABSOLUTELY BOHEMIAN BABE

For a glitzy but sophisticated look this Christmas, wear Temperley. Inspired by the opulence of 1920s Paul Poriet, bold floral prints and geometric designs have been printed in a brilliant mix of topaz blue, orange and gold metallics. temperleylondon.com

WONDERLAND

Whimsical and cute, these Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland coasters are designed by Avenida Home using the playing card iconograph. A perfect stocking filler. scp.co.uk

Compiled By

ELIZABETH H U T TO N

ITALIANS UNITE

This season our favourite amaretto is wearing a jacket by Roberto Cavalli. Designed with the same safari inspiration behind his SS16 collection, this our festive tipple of choice. £15; harveynichols.com

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ABSOLUTELY / LOVES

GOLDEN GOBLET

Crafted using twenty-two carat gold, this scented candle comes in either wild fig or jasmine. A lovely gift. £189; feudebeaumont.com

EYE ON YOU

For many years different cultures have worn the evil eye amulet to ward off bad luck and demonic spirits. These updated pieces by Marianna Goulandris are a minimalistic, modern way to wear the charm (if you’re into that kind of thing). mariannag.com

LOVE LOVE

Christmas is all about the Little Black Dress, but sometimes you want to make a statement. This chunky chain necklace by Lanvin, with adorning glass crystals and statement Amour pendant, will certainly do the trick. £735; farfetch.com

BOW DOWN

Bows aren’t just for decoration: invest in these midnight blue metallic sandals by Delpozo. They’re at the top of our Christmas wish list. £1,164; farfetch.com

TAKING THE BISCUIT

CHAIN METAL

Here at Absolutely, no coffee break would be complete without a custard cream. And we don’t mean the biscuit; we mean this 22-carat gold leaf print china mug from Together Design. perfectlyputtogether.co.uk

This elegant, gold-plated stainless steel timepiece from Anglo-Swedish watchmaker Larsson & Jennings is a prime example of its pared-back, unfussy aesthetic. Stunning. larssonandjennings.com

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DECEMBER 2015

25/11/2015 09:14

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A new bathroom concept Edwins Bathrooms London 020 7221 3550 www.edwinsbathrooms.co.uk • Hovingham of Harrogate 01423 529 991 www.hovinghamofharrogate.co.uk J.A.Clarke & Co Leicester 0116 251 5111 www.jaclarke.co.uk • Napier Bathrooms & Interiors Edinburgh 0131 556 6166 www.napierinteriors.co.uk Obsidian Cheltenham 01242 237 241 www.obsidian.ws • Soaks Bathrooms Belfast 028 9068 112 www.soaksbathrooms.com Staffan Tollgard London 020 7952 6070 www.tollgard.co.uk • Waterloo Bathrooms Co.Dublin 00 353 1 284 2100 www.waterloo.ie

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p. 20

REEL POSTERS

p.24

RICHARD YOUNG p. 29 PARTIES p. 31 CHRISTMAS SHOW ROUND-UP p. 35

©TERRY O'NEILL, 'BOND AND BEYOND', RANSOM GALLERY, 105 PIMLICO ROAD, SW1W; BONDANDBEYOND.CO.UK

> WHAT'S ON

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DECEMBER 2015

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AN OPERATIC SOIRÉE

1 D e ce m b e r L e i ghto n Ho u s e M u s e u m ombining the intimate atmosphere of C Leighton House Museum with the theatre-filling sound of Matilde Wallervik and friends, enjoy an evening of opera in celebration of Leighton’s birthday. With refreshments provided during the interval, this a must-do for music lovers. ◆ 18 Stafford Terrace, W14; rbkc.gov.uk

NEW YEARS’ EVE MASKED BALL

A KYLIE CHRISTMAS 11 D ecember Roya l Alb ert Ha ll

Sure to be nothing short of a Christmas spectacular, Kylie Minogue’s Royal Albert Hall performance is set to be a glittering extravaganza. The pop icon will be debuting songs from her new album alongside seasonal classics and, of course, some of her greatest hits. You can bet on the devil you know this will be one fabulous night out. Kensington Gore, SW7 2AP; royalalberthall.com

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3 1 D e ce m b e r Pa ra di s e By Way o f Ke ns a l G reen he Kensal Rise stalwart will be T transforming its decadent venue into a glittering ballroom for the masquerade party of the year. Featuring music from London’s finest DJs, this is definitely the way to ring in the new year. ◆ 19 Kilburn Lane, W10; theparadise.co.uk

NERINA PALLOT CHRISTMAS SHOW 1 2 D e ce m b e r T he Tab e r na c l e erforming a mixture of P her most popular songs and some classic festive numbers, singer-songwriter Pallot brings her spellbinding voice (and also, her famous mince pies) to The Tabernacle. Get your ticket now to be a part of this unique Christmas experience. ◆ 34-35 Powis Square, W11 tabernacle w11.com

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ARTS & CULTURE / TALKING TOPICS

WILLIAM FOYLE: SECOND SOLO SHOW 1 - 5 D e ce m b e r Ro y a l C o ll e ge o f Ar t ollow the artistic journey of William Foyle in this F exhibit that reveals the stages of his creative process. Delving into past tragedies and demonstrating how they continue to permeate the present, Foyle explores the concept of uncertainty in the future through ambiguous forms and broad brushstrokes. ◆ Kensington Gore, SW7; rca.ac.uk

SKATE AT SOMERSET HOUSE

TAYLOR WESSING Portrait Prize

must do

T h ro u gh o u t D ecem ber Na ti o na l Po r tra i t G all er y

Celebrating the very best in contemporary portraiture, this competition is renowned for celebrating a diverse range of artworks. Each nominee captures moods and emotions in their subjects, but we love this moving shot of ‘Amira and her Chlidren’ by Ivor Prickett.

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

St Martin’s Place, WC2H; npg.org.uk

EXHIBITION OF THE MONTH

CHRISTMAS FILM POP-UP F ro m 1 1 D e c e m b e r 2 0th C e ntu r y T h e atre

t’s reached that time of year to binge watch Christmas films, so where better to start than 2003’s Will Ferrell blockbuster, Elf? Get out from under the duvet covers and experience many other festive favourites, including Frozen. Or, give the little ones a film education with the original cult winter films, Home Alone 1 & 2 and Groundhog Day. Be careful not to spill your hot chocolate or

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mulled wine while laughing hysterically at Hugh Grant’s Love, Actually dance, and savour the delectable brownies and popcorn on offer while watching the teen-friendly Mean Girls. No matter what film you choose, it’s safe to say this pop-up film event will be a smash hit. ◆ l 291 Westbourne Grove W11 popupscreens.co.uk

DECEMBER 2015

25/11/2015 14:25

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WARHOL IN LONDON

To 20 De c e mb e r A&D Ga l l e r y illiam John Kennedy presents works W which have never been seen in the UK before and were hidden from the world until 2010 when he rediscovered his personal archives. This behind-the-scenes exhibition shows a rarely seen side of Warhol, with photographs revealing poignant moments in studio and home. Focusing on his early career, these works show how he became an international success ◆ ¢ 51 Chiltern Street, W1, aanddgallery.com

© WILLIAM JOHN KENNEDY | HOMAGE TO WARHOL’S FLOWERS | 1964 | THE WARHOL: MUSEUM EDITION © ANDY WARHOL FOUNDATION FOR THE VISUAL ARTS, INC. | ARTIST RIGHTS SOCIETY (ARS), NEW YORK COURTESY OF KIWIARTSGROUP.COM OR VISIT WWW.WARHOL.ORG/EDITIONS

C U LT U R E ro u n d u p

ARTS & CULTURE / TALKING TOPICS

THE AGENDA

Our selection of the month’s cultural releases Wo r d s P E N D L E H A R T E

LARRY LEVAN ©BILL BERNSTEIN/ REEL ART PRESS

New York nights The Bill Bernstein photographs at the Serena Morton Gallery

TWILIGHT TOURS

10 & 11 De c e mb e r Lin ley Sa m b o ur ne H o us e itness decadent Victorians W fighting, gossiping and deceiving in this historical tour and intimate performance. Discover how Queen Victoria influenced our tastebuds and see how such a lifestyle was doomed to come undone under its own shortcomings and from the power of the lower classes. Including information from the Sambourne family diaries, this experience will give you a rare glimpse of Victorian eccentricity while you indulge in minced pies and hot toddies. ◆ ¢ 18 Stafford Terrace, W8 eventbrite.co.uk

ill Bernstein’s breathtaking photography takes us on an access-allareas tour of the 1970s New York nightlife. He was enthralled by this groundbreaking era of acceptance and individuality and saw it as his mission to capture it through photography. The infamous Studio 54 takes centre stage at this exhibit as he saw the venue and the people who attended it as true representations of this newfound desire to celebrate individuality. Bernstein wished to understand how the

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culture of inclusion began and how it continues to effect the present. These photographs will transport you back to a life without the chaotic speed and immediacy of today’s lifestyle and technology. This erotic, humorous and insightful artwork forever immortalises the nightlife of 1970’s New York. The pictures are on display from 3 December. ◆ Disco: The Bill Bernstein Photographs RRP £40, published 16 November 2015 by Reel Art Press. www.reelartpress.com 343-345 Ladbroke Grove, W10 ¢ serenamorton.com

DECEMBER 2015

25/11/2015 09:56

MASCULIN FEMININ, 1966

Screen Grab Bruce Marchant is auctioning 300 film posters in Blythe Road this month. Absolutely meets him Wo r d s P E N D L E H A R T E

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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ARTS & CULTURE / FOCUS

he thing about film posters is that they are a dying breed. Cinema billboards are all set to switch to digital, which will put a stop to the printing of promotional posters, a tradition dating back to 1895. Though as far as poster expert Bruce Marchant is concerned, anything produced since the 1980s is of limited interest anyway, dominated by photography rather than illustration. Marchant has been collecting film posters for around 30 years, and his Reel Poster Gallery had a popular shop on Westbourne Grove until internet orders took over. Although poster supply is diminishing, their popularity is increasing as they remain affordable and fascinating collectors’ pieces, relics of the 20th century. So what makes a poster collectable? There are many factors affecting value, including ones with unusual dimensions (US versus British specs), anything that was withdrawn and later changed and European posters, which were routinely signed by the artist, unlike British and American posters. But for most buyers, the appeal is either nostalgia or pure design. ‘People ask for their favourite film, or something with a personal association,’ says Marchant. The most coveted posters are fairly predictable: ‘anything with Audrey Hepburn is probably the most popular, after horror and sci-fi of course.’ says Marchant. The holy grails are the original Frankenstein and Dracula posters – ‘there are less than five of them left in private collections in the world and I know where they are’ – while Bond is

KEY LARGO, 1948

THE HOLY GRAILS ARE the original FRANKENSTEIN AND DRACULA posters – there are fewer THAN FIVE OF THEM LEFT

Magnum Force, 1973

in private collections in THE WORLD

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always a big seller, as is Creature from the Black Lagoon and everything related to Film Noir and Hammer Horror. Film posters were produced by the studios and their in-house designers; their impact used to be huge. In the first half of the 20th century, posters were the only advertising for a film. An illustration would provide the audience with its only advance information in days before trailers were freely available everywhere from your television to your phone. Interestingly, posters used to be leased to cinemas by poster exchanges and cinemas would return them, so the exchanges became sometimes vast archives, where non-current posters would sit unused until a cinema requested them. Decommissioned exchanges are

DECEMBER 2015

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ARTS & CULTURE / FOCUS THE LADYKILLERS, ITALY, 1955

THE HUSTLER, 1961

GOLDFINGER, 1964

TAXI DRIVER, 1976

CATCH 22, 1970

VERTIGO, ITALY, 1958

FOR A FEW HUNDRED pounds

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A REAL PIECE OF HISTORY on

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a huge source of posters for dealers like Marchant, though they are all for the most part gone now. Marchant’s first poster was a British poster for African Queen – ‘I bought it 30 years ago for $600. It’s worth around £2,000 now. This month’s auction will be the first sale of film posters at 25 Blythe Road. Film posters have fallen out of favour at the major auction houses in recent years because of their relative low value – new minimum values are set at around £800. ‘But we’re collector-focused, not money,’ says Marchant. And film posters are a departure for 25 Blythe Road too, whose owner Thomas Del Mar is a specialist in arms and armour. Marchant estimates that he’s sold

over 15,000 posters in the past 25 years, of which only around one per cent have ever come back into his hands, because these are things that people tend to keep. ‘For a few hundred pounds you can have a real piece of history on your wall,’ he says, and at this pre-Christmas auction, lots will start at just £100, rising to £2,000 for rarer pieces. Film lovers take note.

l Bruce Marchant – 90 Years of Film Posters and Memorabilia (1918-2008) is at 25 Blythe Road, W14. The public exhibition runs from 6 to 9 December; bidding opens on 4 December at 25blytheroad.com and closes at midday on 9 December.

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DECEMBER 2015

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ARTS & CULTURE / PHOTOGRAPHY

ON A ROLL

Ever wanted to have your picture taken by a celebrity photographer? Now’s your chance, thanks to Richard Young’s new walk-in studio Wo r d s P E A R L B OY D

hey say you know you’re famous when Richard Young takes your picture. But now we can all have the celebrated photographer’s lens pointed our way, thanks to the new photographic concept at his Kensington gallery. Richard Young Walk-Ins, just launched, is a studio where the public can walk in and have their portrait taken by the legendary celebrity photographer himself. It works like this: arrive camera ready and Richard will shoot an entire roll of black and white film in 10 minutes. You’ll receive three silver gelatin prints and a contact sheet of images hand-selected by Richard from each shoot. Richard explains: “In 1979 I was commissioned by French Vogue and David Bailey’s Ritz Magazine to shoot Sir Ralph Richardson being photographed by Sir Cecil Beaton. I watched as his assistants set up the shoot. Finally the great man himself came out and took about 10 shots, and that was it. I was intrigued. I plucked up the courage. ‘Sir, I see you have only taken a few shots?’. He turned to me and retorted, ‘My dear boy, if you can’t get it in one role of film it’s just not worth bothering!’ I recently remembered these words when I unearthed the actual shot used in Ritz. I really felt that I wanted to get back to shooting film.” Richard Young is at the forefront of

If you can’t GET IT IN ONE ROLL of film it’s not WORTH BOTHERING

celebrity photography. With a career spanning 40 years, and no sign of stopping anytime soon, Richard’s exceptional eye and unique approach has cemented him as the most trusted and prolific contemporary photographer to the stars. As both a portraitist and photojournalist, his unerring ability to

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capture the moment and present a candid, inside view into the world of celebrity has resulted in iconic images that are celebrated in publications throughout the world. In recognition of Richard’s tremendous impact in the field of photography, over the past several years he has been honoured with multiple awards and achievements. In October 2013, Richard Young’s candid photograph of Freddie Mercury at home was inducted into the National Portrait Gallery. He took the last photograph of Keith Moon at a party with Paul and Linda McCartney, just hours before he died. Richard visited orphanages in Romania with Michael Jackson, photographed Sting’s wedding to Trudie Styler and toured the country with the Sex Pistols. He has covered parties for the Cannes film festival and the Oscars. He accompanied and documented United States troops in Iraq and Fidel Castro in Cuba. Young’s photographs have been exhibited worldwide and he has had several retrospectives. With an archive of over two million images, Richard Young’s prolific body of work could easily serve as documentation of popular culture over the past 40 years. So what better gift for the person who has everything than a studio shoot with Young? Prices start at £1,800 per shoot, and gift vouchers are also available. ◆ 4 Holland Street, W8; 020 7937 8911 richardyounggallery.co.uk

DECEMBER 2015

25/11/2015 12:35

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ARTS & CULTURE / SOCIAL

KITCHEN STORY n audience of London's lifestyle lovers, which included homeowners, interior designers, international artists and journalists, shared in celebrating the new look Mark Wilkinson Showroom on Holland Park Avenue. Master designer Mark Wilkinson OBE introduced the company's rational in re-planning the magnificent showroom. He described the modern evolution of two of his collections and expanded a view of how lifestyle-design is developing as the kitchen grows more central to modern life, with family, enjoyment of entertaining and food at its core. u 126 Holland Park Avenue, W11 markwilkinson.co.uk

Party People Out and about in the area

SOPHIE HARLEY litter winged heart tattoos, bespoke martinis and a glamourous set of creative aesthetes danced the night away to 25 years of vintage tunes from Kev Whelan (AKA The Agent Orange) to celebrate 25 years of Sophie Harley London. The evening showcased a stunning array of beautiful 18ct and coloured gemstone rings, mouth-watering pink are rare green paraiba tourmalines, mink and old cut diamonds, rubies, emerald and tanzanite. The anniversary evening also saw the launch of Sophie's brand new website, rebuilt with a specialist section dedicated to Sophieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ever expanding bespoke commission work. u sophieharley.com

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DECEMBER 2015

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ARTS & CULTURE / MOODBOARD go east

Home of Lillingston’s newest office, Hong Kong is a buzzing metropolis. An exotic mix of traditional Chinese culture and glamorous nightlife. For incomparable cocktails visit Mercedes Me.

hoMe froM hoMe

If you are looking to escape for New Year but don’t want to travel too far then Aynhoe Park in Oxfordshire can transport you to an eccentric world of taxidermy unicorns, giant glitter balls and plenty of four poster beds…

in the snow

Frosted teepees, deerskin rugs and luxe log cabins in Megève; the term ‘winter wonderland’ doesn’t even do it justice.

THE ART OF PARTYING over the New Year

Party experts Lillingston travel the world in pursuit of the perfect New Year’s Eve location

under the sun

Saunter through the souks of Marrakech, dine under the desert stars, then take refuge in the tranquil splendour of Hotel La Mamounia.

lillingston.co.uk

bright lights

city roMance

Buzzing street life, tropical beaches, and electric party nights. Rio makes you feel alive! Stay at the legendary Belmond Copacabana Palace for a taste of historic grandeur.

Get lost in Venice’s romantic archipelago of alleyways and glittering waterways, then let Lillingston transform your palazzo into a candlelit feast.

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DECEMBER 2015

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U NS U R PA S S E D R E A L I S M With Balsam Hill’s exclusive True Needle™ technology, our artisan-designed trees are carefully handcrafted to match the colour and texture of natural Christmas trees. Enjoy an EXTRA 10% OFF when entering code N O W 1 0 S AV E at checkout. Coupon expires 20.12.2015.

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

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

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ARTS & CULTURE / THEATRE SLEEPING BEAUTY Sadler’s Well Theatre

atthew Bourne's Sleeping Beauty, is a dazzling spectacular. His M world of mysteries far surpasses the traditional version with a reinterpretation of the iconic love story that begins in 1890 and continues into the modern day. Princess Aurora and her slumber-filled fate features magical fairies, a dashing prince and the evil Maleficent: 2015’s Sleeping Beauty will not only capture your heart, but it will also take your breath away. ◆  From 1 December, sadlerswells.com

WONDER.LAND National Theatre, Olivier

lice's 50th anniversary celebrations continue with A Damon Albarn's new musical version at the National Theatre. Her Wonderland is now wonder.land, a virtual world behind a computer screen. In this story, modern-day teenager Aly escapes the bullies at school and her parents at home to become Alice 2.0, the brave young woman she wants to be. This show impressively reinvents the classic Lewis Carroll tale to tackle the issues and struggles of the digital generation. ◆  Throughout December, nationaltheatre.org.uk

Show Time The season’s best family productions Wo r d s p e n d l e h a r t e

THE LION KING Lyceum Theatre

he Lion King has remained one of the West End’s bestselling stage productions since its London debut in 1999. Boasting extravagant costumes, show-stopping puppetry and energetic choreography developed specifically for the stage, the Lyceum

Theatre’s beautifully colourful production will definitely put you in the festive spirit. This feel-good production will have all family members humming along to tunes they know and love, as well as enjoying aspects exclusive to the stage version of the story. ◆  thelionking.co.uk

NUTCRACKER ON ICE Royal Albert Hall

festive season essential, this Nutcracker puts A Tchaikovsky’s 1892 story of Clara and her new, beloved Nutcracker doll on ice with variety of champion skaters reinventing the famous holiday tale with truly astonishing figure skating routines based on Clara’s Christmas adventures. Though the traditional story has been reimagined, and a stage replaced with a rink, this remains a quintessential holiday show. ◆  From 28 December, royalalberthall.com

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DECEMBER 2015

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LONDON’S PREMIER CRYSTAL AND MINERAL GALLERY 25 All Saints Road, Notting HIll, London W11 1HE T. +44 (0)207 792 4957 www.venusrox.com

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

> FASHION CONFIDENTIAL

p. 38

EDINA RONAY

p. 40

MOODBOARD: YOLKE

CHRISTMAS GIFTS FOR HER

p. 49

BURBERRYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S BILLY ELLIOT An all-star, all-British cast; an homage to this BAFTA-winning film: just in time for the holidays, Burberry has released its festive campaign, shot by Mario Testino. With boho-luxe looks and a bouncing Romeo Beckham, we've just discovered the secret to a very merry Christmas. uk.burberry.com

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st y l e C e n t r a l

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

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

ay brought us the muchInstragrammed Jimmy Choo x Rafael Mantess ‘Choo Hound’; August witnessed Sophia Webster and Barbie team up; September saw Harrods and Dolce & Gabbana, Valentino and Givenchy unite for Harrods’ Catch Me If You Can sneaker showcase; October brought us label.m and Giles, J.W.Anderson and Diet Coke, and Roberto Cavalli and Disaronno; and November welcomed irrefutably 2015’s biggest fashion collaboration, H&M x Balmain. This year has witnessed huge brand unions, but there’s plenty more where that came from. Before Christmas additional killer combinations will be unveiled – the most noted, of course, being Burberry’s Claridge’s Christmas tree. Featuring metallic gold and silver fabriccovered umbrellas, the tree-shaped sculpture by Chief Creative & Executive Officer Christopher Bailey will take up residence in the iconic hotel’s foyer. Fittingly Nicholas Kirkwood’s Christmas mini-range of Lurex-covered styles (above) will make for perfect gifts under the tree, as will Lacoste’s line of Charles Schulz’ Peanuts pieces. Now with just-announced shoe label Charlotte Olympia and MAC Cosmetics’ March 2016 release, next year is already looking very promising for limited editions... ◆

● H&M X BALMAIN hm.com

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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10 Years, 10 Dresses Roksanda at Harvey Nichols

Colour Block Queen Roksanda has launched 10 of her most iconic dresses from the last 10 years in design, exclusively to Harvey Nichols. The collection brings back the most popular styles available in new fabrications and colourways – just in time for Christmas. Anerley Dress; £1,950, harveynichols

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FASHION / NOTES

8 of the best

NEW VINTAGE WilliamVintage for Liberty London

PARTY SHOES

Liberty London and William Banks-Blaney, founder of WilliamVintage, have collaborated to create an exclusive capsule collection inspired by 1960s haute couture. The readyto-wear range features both day and cocktail pieces, and are all made in England. From £350-£945, liberty.co.uk

Dazzle on the dance floor in these hot heels

01 02

editor’s

PICK

SWING TIME Oscar de la Renta

After being spotted on the catwalks at Lanvin and Oscar de la Renta, and with the current mood for all things 1980s dominating the fashion scene, tassel earrings have made a major comeback. This elegant pair will add drama to a simple evening look. Beaded Tassel Clip-On Earrings; £294, mytheresa.com

MAKE A STATEMENT Edie Parker

Stand out this party season with a statement clutch from New York handbag label Edie Parker. The distinctive acrylic bags are handcrafted in the US, with bespoke bags available to order on the Edie Parker website; customise yours with your name or favourite phrase. ‘Peace’ Clutch; £1,240, farfetch.com & edie-parker.com

SAVE THE CHILDREN m a tc h es fa s h i o n .c o m

This Christmas, Save The Children has joined forces with this luxury etailer and five of the UK’s leading designers – Bella Freud, Giles Deacon, Charlotte Olympia, Henry Holland and Christopher Kane – to create five unique cashmere sweaters for charity. 100% of the profits will be donated to help the world’s most vulnerable children. Cashmere Sweater; Each £365, matchesfashion.com

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01. JIMMY CHOO ‘Lilyth 120’ Sandals, £595, jimmychoo.com; 02. SOPHIA WEBSTER ‘Amanda’ Platform Sandals, £420, net-a-porter.com; 03. DELPOZO Leather Sandals, £1,165, farfetch.com; 04. AQUAZURRA X POPPY DELEVINGNE Leather Sandals, £640, aquazzura.com; 05. CASADEI Velvet Sandals, £585, casadei.com; 06. NICHOLAS KIRKWOOD Glitter ‘Carnaby’ Sandals, £795, nicholaskirkwood.com; 07. BIONDA CASTANA ‘Lana’ Heels, £430, biondacastana.com; 08. SALVATORE FERRAGAMO ‘Lenny’ Sandals, £1,150, farfetch.com

DECEMBER 2015

25/11/2015 11:03

Edina A fashion original Flying the flag for British fashion for 40 years, Edina Ronay’s timeless, worldwide-known style never fails to cater for real women Wo r d s J U L I E B U R N S

rom the chic knits that initially established her empire to the visionary vintage-style clothing she produced long before the world went crazy for all things retro, Edina Ronay’s range represents the epitome of great English taste. According to Edina, it all happened by happy accident: the popular, pioneering knitwear, the tradition-with-a-twist bespoke clothes to match (always made in Britain), the royalty-to-red-carpet clients from the Princess of Wales to the Duchess of Cambridge, Nicole Kidman to Kate Moss; even Edina’s former career as an actress and it-girl of her day. Unlike the average international fashion business, the swift rise of the Edina Ronay brand was a case of right place, right time and product. ‘It was always organic; no strategies, or plans,’ says the still stylish 70-something style innovator. Following a stint selling her own reworked vintage finds from a stall in Antiquarius in the 1970s, Edina and her husband Dick then set up shop in the capital’s cool King’s Road. “It just

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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I was the FIRST to do HANDcrafted fashionable SWEATERS

took off all of a sudden,” recalls Edina, referring to uptake everywhere from Browns, Liberty and Harrods in the capital to boutiques in Paris and Japan. “We were just going along doing our own thing. In the first season alone, [top American stores] Bergdorfs and Bendels bought stock. I guess no one then had seen hand-crafted, fashionable sweaters from England. I was first to do them. Our success felt almost like a mistake, we were taken aback by it. It was a lot more fun then.” Business began to really blossom in 1976, in the wake of sharp silhouetting trend-setting Mary Quant, the vivid butterfly creations of Zandra Rhodes, and master of boho, Ossie Clark. “I used to buy Ossie’s clothes and he encouraged me with my knitwear,” says Edina. “I then did the clothing – 30s, 40s and 50s in style and feel, utilising beautiful, expensive fabrics.” Hollywood was an early influence – “especially Marlene Dietrich, all high glamour and gowned in Stronheim movies; costume designers Orry-Kelly and Edith Head, through to 40s Chanel.” Edina’s first fashion inspiration was her

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FASHION / PROFILE xxx xx xx x xxx xx xx x xxx xx xx x xxx xx xx x x xx x xxx xx xx x

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As featured in

sablebeauty.com

Unique Beauty, Lovingly Curated sablebeauty.com is your local online beauty boutique with an edit of unique beauty products sourced from all over the world and a personalised customer service. Enjoy Free next day delivery for Notting Hill and Kensington area with code ABSOLUTELY

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FASHION / PROFILE

Edina in 1969

AW15 ruby velvet_ long bias dress with hand-beaded straps

mother, a Hungarian aristocrat. “She was always beautifully dressed,” recalls Edina. “Back in Budapest she had wealth, and had made-to-measure. Rummaging through her wardrobe first turned me onto fashion.” Her mother still set a “finely-groomed example” during their first, frugal existence as immigrants in the UK – the Ronays had lost virtually everything as a result of their brave wartime escape after the Communist takeover. Edina’s father Egon, brought up in his family’s Budapest restaurants, once in London started his famous Egon Ronay Guide – a great success as Britain’s first guide to good food. As for artistic 16-yearold Edina, a foundation course at Central Saint Martins beckoned - before acting intervened. “Again it wasn’t thought out but great fun, apart from the early starts and late finishes.” Following a spell at RADA, Edina’s acting portfolio spanned a small part in cult film The Collector by William Wyler, a couple of Carry On films, a cameo in Beatles' flick A Hard Day’s Night, plus theatre. Here she also met her film producer-turned-photographer husband of 50 years, Dick Polak. “Our world was full of musicians, authors, actresses. I feel lucky to have been part of the swinging 60s.”

All along, her fascination with fashion remained. She made her own clothes and collected vintage, which she’d nip and tweak and started selling to model friends. “Vintage in the 70s was much bigger than now,” says Edina. “We’d all go shopping at the Chelsea Arts Fair looking for gorgeous 40s or 30s pieces. Now I find it unbelievable that the 90s are seen as vintage.” To Edina, its evergreen appeal lies in ‘the flattering, feminine fit, the individuality, the quality fabric, the prints, and inventive ideas - even of the home-made creations.” She has been a ‘Putney person’ for almost as long as she’s been in business. "Our Putney terrace has been home since 1977, and with the workshop at the side, I’ve worked AW15_fuschia funnel neck coat

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EDINA’S FATHER EGON RONAY started Britain’s FIRST GUIDE TO good food from home since then." She continues: “the kids were in school in Chelsea, we were still near to the King’s Road shop, and I loved the river and being here. It’s changed over the years - in a good way. When we moved in, it was a working class area; now it’s such an aspirational place. With regards to the clientele, I was lucky in that they were loyal, and have simply followed me. Once a season I show in Kensington at Ognisko, a perfect venue near the V&A and the AW15 Royal Albert Hall.” leopardprint With the global shirt market currently valued at a staggering £1.1 trillion, fashion is ‘a different world’ to four decades ago. “When I started out it was quirky, with smaller boutiques,” Edina says.

DECEMBER 2015

25/11/2015 10:46

Now open in Notting Hill Put your bags down and feel yourself unwind in our flagship boutique in Notting Hill. Enjoy our brand new treatment, Untouched Brow, and receive a complimentary Mini Brow Pencil. Perfect for on-the-go glamour.

51 Ledbury Road W11 2AA 020 7221 1663 www.blinkbrowbar.com

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FASHION / PROFILE

model, 1990s

Jerry Hall modelling Edina Ronay, 1990s

“Through the 60s to 80s, it felt rather exciting and different. Now it’s become larger, mass produced in volume; more uniform, less individual, less interesting. It’s all a bit samey and impersonal. Sold pretty much everywhere, I made the decision to reign my brand in, to keep control of it.

I wanted it to remain made in Britain – too much expansion would inevitably have meant manufacture in China or Romania. We could have made masses more money, but for me, it wasn’t about that. I didn’t want to be a slave to business. I liked to travel. I wanted a life. I’m glad to be self-owned, one of the few who still are.” Once a London Fashion Week show regular, Edina claims to have ‘hated’ the runway aspect. “I made clothes that were catwalk worthy and photographed well, but wanted to flatter real women, not merely dress models like stick insects,” she laughs. “I like all body shapes, and making sure each woman looks good on her own terms. My clients are happy that they can be flattered. Some still wear outfits of mine from the 80s – despite the exaggerated shoulders.”

Some clients still

WEAR OUTFITS

of mine from the 80s – DESPITE THE SHOULDERS

Tyra Banks, 1990s

AW15 navy velvet_ long opera coat

Edina’s latest, still proudly British made, online collection is a showcase of jewel hues, heritage and texture. “People over 50 I find like colour, while those in their 20s and 30s seem to prefer neutral,” she muses. “This season means rich fabrics, laces, and my favourite, velvet - very tactile. Dresses more 50s in cut, flared out for comfort, or shift dresses to the knee; coats that are more 60s in feel, and 30s long velvet opera creations… Shapes that follow the curves more. Always feminine, always romantic.” How does she define herself? “I’m a fashion designer of course, but I don’t make complete couture with a toile. I call what I do semi-couture. I’ve streamlined my collection online and for my private clients, I will change the length and width.” She enjoyed being one of the Designers at Debenhams via her handbags, shoes and swimwear range. Today, there are a few licensing deals in the pipeline and Edina, still girlish and enthusiastic, “aims to get more”. Even after decades in the business, her dedication to the business of style remains steadfast. ◆ edinaronay.com

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DECEMBER 2015

25/11/2015 10:46

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Enjoy a complimentary glass of Champagne when dining at The Restaurant. Quote ‘Absolutely’.

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Celebrate the New Year in style. Enjoy live music from the fabulous Belle Erskine Trio, Champagne and Canapés from 8pm.

11TH December 2015

31ST December 2015

Non Members Welcome For event reservations or further information contact Oriane at Oriane.Teysseire@gentingcasinos.co.uk Maxims Casino Club Palace Gate House, London W8 5LS Tel: 020 7581 0337

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FASHION / MOODBOARD

MY INSPIRATIONS

ANNA AND ELLA

Anna Williamson and Ella Ringner, co-founders of Yolke, share their aesthetics

YOUR FAVOURITE PIECE FROM YOLKE’S CURRENT COLLECTION

AW The cobalt shirt dress. It’s an amazing jewel tone that really glows on silk satin and I’ve been really surprised by how adaptable it is to wear. It’s become a staple over leather trousers.

LAUREN HUTTON

YOUR FAVOURITE DESIGNER

ER Erdem, because his designs are so romantic.

YOUR STYLE ICON

STEVIE NICKS

ER A mix of Lauren Hutten’s boyish shapes and Stevie Nicks’s playful colours and cowgirl prints.

ERDEM’S DESIGNS are so ROMANTIC

YOUR FAVOURITE HOLIDAY DESTINATION

ER & AW Ibiza is a home from home for both of us. We both have family there and love to go in the off season when it’s beautifully green and quiet. We try to shift our office out there for a couple of weeks a year to recharge and gain perspective away from the hustle and bustle of London.

YOUR SIGNATURE SCENT

AW Maison Martin Margiela's Beach Walk. The fragrances all have little emotive descriptions on the bottles; this one is for ‘sun kissed salty skin’ and it really does take me straight to the sea. ER Philosykos by Diptique

YOUR FAVOURITE PIECE OF ART

CHRISTOPHER WOOL

IBIZA

AW I have a Christopher Wool print that has hung in every bedroom or home since I was about 12 and holds very sentimental value. Being monochrome it goes with everything too.

YOUR FAVOURITE BUILDING

ER Notre Dame for going back in time and feeling peaceful ◆ yolke.co.uk

ERDEM AW15 NOTRE DAME

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YOLKE COBALT SHIRT DRESS

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

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

ISA ARFAN AW15

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

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

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

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

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

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

These metallic show-stoppers are party season essentials

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

B y Charlot te Adset t

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

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

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

DECEMBER 2015

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

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

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

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

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

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Sequin Top £1,335 and Sequin Skirt £1,355 both Nina Ricci at Harvey Nichols Leather Pumps £425 Jimmy Choo 22kt Gold and Pearl ‘Oko’ Ring £250 and 22kt Gold and Pearl Hand Cuff £280 both Leivankash 18kt Gold ‘Tusk’ Earrings £275 and 18kt Gold 'Aerial’ Ring £1,950 both Shaun Leane

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beegoddess.com brownsfashion.com fenwick.co.uk harrods.com harveynichols.com jimmychoo.com leivankash.com net-a-porter.com shaunleane.com sophiawebster.com stuartweitzman.com swarovski.com temperleylondon.com vickisarge.com PHOTOGRAPHER Kate Martin FASHION EDITOR Charlotte Adsett PHOTOGRAPHERS ASSISTANT Olivier Barjolle FASHION ASSISTANT Elysia Agnew MAKE UP by Camila Fernandaz using Chanel Christmas 2015 and Chanel Body Excellence HAIR by Erika Selvaggio at Taylor Taylor London salon using Davines NAILS by Kate Williamson @nailedbykw using Mavala and Eve Snow SHOT ON LOCATION at an interior by Caroline Legrand Design carolinelegranddesign.com

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SOLE LOVE

Danish-born designer Nanna Liv of footwear brand Sargossa reveals the secrets behind her 'comfortable stilettos' W o r d s E ly s i a A g n e w

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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“Y

ou have to try them before you believe them.” These are the first words from 28-year-old fashion designer Nanna Liv when describing her footwear label, Sargossa. The brand hinges on a concept women have longed for since hobbling around in their mother’s heels as a child: creating shoes that are as comfortable as they are stylish. Since founding her revolutionary high heel brand in 2014, Liv continues to challenge the phrase “no pain, no gain,” banishing what is currently a day-to-day reality of most women wanting that extra bit of height. “It all started with me having the need [for comfortable shoes] myself because I wore heels a lot and had so much pain,” she reminisces. Nanna moved to London to work in fashion sales and on the trade show floor, high heels were a necessity. Nanna spotted a gap in the market and began to

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FASHION / DESIGN

bring the then unheard-of ‘comfortable stilettos’ to life, creating her own way around this fashion frustration. “I spent two-and-a-half years doing the research; I looked at posture; I worked with engineers; I tried to get knowledge from industries where you wouldn’t normally look. After those two-and-a-half years, I realised it wasn’t just about creating a stiletto; it was as much about the length as it was having a comfortable insole.” Now the brand is an essential part of the professional woman’s wardrobe, where the brains behind the wear-all-day shoe company has recently settled in Chelsea as her business reaches new heights. London has been the basis of Liv’s journey so far: Her designs are inspired by the concept of everyday London life, architecture and design. The secret behind her covetable designs, though, is the patented insole that helps to ease the pain brought on by footstraining stiletto styles.

I REALISED it wasn’t JUST ABOUT creating

a stiletto

Who is the Sargossa woman? “Me, you, your friends. She appreciates the nice things, has an eye for detail, and won’t compromise on style or quality,” explains Liv. “Normally when you design a collection you are extremely creative. I had to take the creative part, which is 50 percent of it, and the other 50 percent is the geeky part where you think, is it even possible to make this design? I give myself all of the time I want to be creative, and then I try to narrow it down to see if it is going to work for comfort as well; it’s so much about mixing between the two. “It’s a lot about trusting yourself and seeing that your designs are actually successful,” admits the designer. “We women are quite picky when it comes to colour and style, and then when it is created we take the black pair at the shoe shop.” Yet Liv’s groundbreaking footwear is proving irresistible to most women, even catching the eye of Helen Persson, curator at Victoria & Albert Museum. “[Helen] spotted me at London Fashion Week when I launched [in 2014] and said she would be in touch.” Shortly after she was discussing her involvement in the museum’s Shoes: Pleasure and Pain exhibit, recalling: “It was a huge process to go through, but it was a big deal for us.” To top off a highly successful 2015, Liv has also been shortlisted for the Drapers Footwear Designer of the Year award. What will next year hold for the Danish shoemaker? It seems as though the sky’s the limit. ◆ sargossa.com

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DECEMBER 2015

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Photography by: markcolliton.com

DAZZLING CHRISTMAS TREATS FROM SOPHIE HARLEY LONDON WWW.SOPHIEHARLEY.COM

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FASHION / JEWELLERY

Treat Yourself 1

1. GEORGE PRAGNELL, ‘CINNAMON DIAMONDS’ CLUSTER RING IN ROSE GOLD, £4,175; pragnell.co.uk 2. CARTIER, PANTHÈRE EARRINGS IN PLATINUM, ONYX, EMERALDS & DIAMONDS, £POA; www.cartier.co.uk 3. HARRY WINSTON, CASCADING SAPPHIRE & DIAMOND DROP NECKLACE, £POA; harrywinston.com 4. BOODLES, ‘VINTAGE PALACE’ YELLOW DIAMOND EARRINGS IN PLATINUM, £POA; boodles.com 5. GRAFF, 34.26CT ‘FANCY VIVID YELLOW’ RADIANT CUT DIAMOND RING, £POA; graffdiamonds.com 6. BACKES & STRAUSS, ‘THE PICCADILLY RENAISSANCE’ 33 MECHANICAL MOVEMENT YELLOW GOLD TIMEPIECE WITH WHITE DIAMOND SETTING, £28,400; backesandstrauss.com 7. DIOR, 18CT WHITE GOLD ‘ARCHI DIOR’ NECKLACE WITH WHITE DIAMONDS & EMERALDS, £POA; dior.com 8. KIMBERLY MCDONALD, 18CT WHITE GOLD, OPAL & DIAMOND EARRINGS, £41,200; net-a-porter.com

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DECEMBER 2015

25/11/2015 12:05

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CALL 020 7625 6694

or email info@sidfizoptique.com to book an eye test. 46 Salusbury ROAD, Queen’s Park, NW6 6NN

WWW.SIDFIZOPTIQUE.COM

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FASHION / WARDROBE 3

7 10 11

8 9

the

DRESS D

TO IMPRESS The cocktail dresses to be seen in this party season

B y charlot te adset t

1. ANTONIO BERARDI Stretch-crepe dress, £750; avenue32.com 2. ROKSANDA Wave panel dress, £895; roksanda.com 3. GIVENCHY Sheer macramé dress, £2,445; farfetch.com 4. ALEXANDER MCQUEEN Wool crepe dress, £1,625; harrods.com 5. DOLCE & GABBANA Embellished rose shift dress, £4,450; harrods.com 6. CHRISTOPHER KANE One shoulder stretch dress, £695; liberty.co.uk 7. NINA RICCI Sequin dress, £2,535; harveynichols.com 8. DELPOZO Wool blend crepe dress, £2,195; brownsfashion.com 9. DION LEE Satin cut out dress, £660; farfetch.com 10. BALMAIN Embellished mini dress, £1,840; farfetch.com 11. EMILIO DE LA MORENA Velvet midi dress, £660; matchesfashion.com 12. STELLA MCCARTNEY Leopard-print devore dress, £815; harveynichols.com 13. EMILIO PUCCI Sequin mini dress, £2,177; farfetch.com 14. VALENTINO Cosmic jacquard dress, £2,175; harveynichols.com

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FASHION / WARDROBE

GOWNS GALORE B y charlot te adset t

13 8

9 10

Full length and fabulous… TOP ROW: 1. EMILIO PUCCI Embellished silk gown, £2,645; mytheresa.com 8. 2. NINA RICCI Silk crepe dress, £3,935; mytheresa.com 3. ROKSANDA Stretch cady ‘Zeal’ gown, £1,190; harveynichols.com 4. VILSHENKO Lurex backless ‘Janine’ gown, £1,450; avenue32.com 5. VALENTINO Crystal embellished tulle gown, £10,440; mytheresa.com 6. MARIA LUCIA HOHAN Silk ‘Eliz’ gown, £1,300; farfetch.com 7. JENNY PACKHAM Beaded gown, £3,350; harrods.com BOTTOM ROW: 8. GALVAN Velvet and satin gown, £995; harveynichols.com 9. STELLA MCCARTNEY Ruched stretch cady gown, £1,575; harrods.com 10. TEMPERLEY LONDON Embroidered tulle ‘Flutura’ gown, £1,995; net-a-porter.com 11. BALMAIN Embellished jersey dress, £1,941; mytheresa.com 12. MORV Silk gown, £1,080; avenue32.com 13. ELIE SAAB Pleated silk chiffon gown, £4,550; harrods.com 14. LANVIN One shoulder cady gown £2,010; matchesfashion.com

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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

Health and Wellness are important, but time pressures and busy lives often mean our good intentions to move more and be active are overlooked. Technogym works with you to design and create the perfect Wellness area, tailored to your home, space, budget and – most importantly – you and your family’s health goals.

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

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> BEAUTY CONFIDENTIAL

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BEAUTY GIFT GUIDE

p. 69

HEADS UP Become a Dior girl for the festive season and take heed of the brandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new State of Gold collection. Paint your pout vibrant shades, your nails in metallic hues, and keep your eyes smouldering using the darkest kohl. dior.com

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DECEMBER 2015

25/11/2015 14:43

B E AU T Y R e v i e w

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

BLINK BROW BAR Blink’s ‘brow-hab’

Wo r d s P E N D L E H A R T E

ith brows, potential problems are many. Some suffer from excess, while others contend with a lack. Either way, this is the package for those in need of intervention. Blink – already a fixture at Bluebird, Peter Jones and Harvey Nichols – has a new outpost on Ledbury Road and it's a stylish and convenient stop for a spot of emergency brow maintenance. Brow-hab is a package that focuses on creating sustainable brows by shaping and tinting first – a swift process thanks to some skilful threading, and Blink staff's good eyes for picking precisely the right shade – before sending you home armed with products to keep the grooming going. My sparse, pale brows are threaded into shape

THIS IS A PACKAGE for those in need OF INTERVENTION and tinted just a smidge darker to make them visible but not terrifying, and I am given a bag containing a roll-on nourishing brow oil (apply at night to stimulate growth, apparently) and a pencil in the right shade (Indian Chocolate) with which to fill in the gaps while waiting for regrowth. A week later and my brows still have that just-done look. ◆

Red Handed Nails inc

New from Nailsinc, as part of its Nail Kale collection, is the AW15 range, modelled here by Alexa Chung. Choose from pretty hues such as berry purple, royal blue, baby pink and mint green. nailsinc.com

● B L I N K B R OW B A R 51 Ledbury Road, W11; 020 7221 1663 blinkbrowbar.com

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HEALTH & BEAUTY / NOTES

7 of the best

METALLIC LACQUERS

CRYSTAL CLEAR Själ

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

02 01

THE DARK SIDE Burberry

A date for your diary: 1 February 2016. This is the day this gorgeous looking bottle drops exclusively to Harrods. My Burberry Black (as it’s officially known) is a darker version of My Burberry, containing notes of jasmine, peach nectar and amber patchouli. £100 for 90ml; harrods.com

best

BUY 05 04

GIVE SOME LIP Christian Louboutin Beauté

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

editor’s

PICK CULT PRODUCT Sable Beauty

Notting Hill based former lawyer Yassira Zaandam founded Sable Beauty to bring niche brands to the UK. One of her biggest sellers is Kevyn Aucoin, whose Celestial Liquid Candlelight blurs every trace of tiredness. £42, sablebeauty.com

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

DECEMBER 2015

25/11/2015 14:45

ABSOLUTELY advert 3 DEC 15_Westside Coolsculpt advert aug 15 24/11/2015 12:09 Page 1

Eating the right food and exercising sometimes isn’t enough to get rid of stubborn fat so let the CoolSculpting procedure do the work to get you back into shape. With more than 2 million procedures performed on men and women worldwide CoolSculpting isn’t a fad – it’s the scientifically supported FDA cleared way to eliminate stubborn fat with no surgery.

Quote “COOLSCULPT WEST LONDON” FOR

£100 OFF VOUCHER

Call The Park Club MediSpa team on 020 8743 1900 and book your FREE consultation. Parking available at The Park Club MediSpa The Park Club, East Acton Lane, Acton, London W3 7HB

MEDISPA.indd 1

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HEALTH & BEAUTY / GIFT GUIDE LA PRAIRIE

Legendary Caviar Luxuries Collection, £668; harrods.com

CLARINS

Cupcake Stocking Filler, £15; harveynichols.com

LIZ EARLE

BIRCHBOX

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

CHANEL, COLLECTION ROUGE NOIR ABSOLUTEMENT

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

CODAGE PARIS

Skin Intervention, £79; codageparis.com

BUTTER LONDON

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

SPACE NK

Christmas Hamper, £150; uk.spacenk.com

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

GOOD LOOKING GIFTS

CARITA

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

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

SISLEY

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

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

AESOP

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

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DECEMBER 2015

25/11/2015 15:25

FESTIVE BEST Local lifestyle inspiration to see you through the Christmas season

ALEXEEVA AND JONES This elegant boutique stocks an amazing range of luxury artisan chocolates by worldclass chocolatiers from the UK, Europe, Africa and the Americas. Fresh loose chocolates, luxury gift boxes and the UK’s best range of artisan bars, plus champagne, hot chocolate, coffee and tea make this the perfect place to reward yourself and find perfect gifts for all occasions. 297 Westbourne Grove, W11 2QA; 020 7229 1199 alexeevajones.com

CARLO ROTTA

Zaeem Jamal A bright wash of autumnal colours and a luscious flow of winter fabrics, Zaeem Jamal’s eponymous store on Chelsea’s King’s Road is one of London’s best kept secrets. A happy mix of locals, celebrities, VIPs and international clients can be seen popping in for bespoke fittings, coffee and a chat - or all three. Join the party. 309 King’s Road, SW3 5EP. zaeemjamal.com

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Carlo Rotta is a brand of premium Italian chocolate. Created to acquaint chocolate lovers with the unique flavour of gianduia chocolate, a blend of cocoa and hazelnut paste, first created in Turin in 1806. Our exquisite chocolates are the ideal Christmas gift and you can easily buy them at carlorotta.com and in some of the best gourmet shops in London and Monaco. carlorotta.com

70 25/11/2015 15:28

ABSOLUTELY / PROMOTION

MATTHEW UPHAM ANTIQUES

EGO HAIR Now there's a solution that sounds so simple you wonder why nobody thought of it sooner. Olaplex is a new system from the US that's creating a storm in the beauty world for its simplicity and effectiveness in turning around the harm usually caused by chemical treatments. It's a reconstructive hair conditioner that actually works with colour instead of post-colour in the usual way. One treatment; no damage. Ask for it at Ego in Queens Park. 020 7625 4811; egohair.co.uk

Matthew Upham Antiques specialises in hand-restored antique chandeliers, lanterns, wall lights and decorative objects, selectively sourced from all over Europe. Ranging from the 17th to the early 20th century, they take pride in providing quality antique lighting with a professional customer service. 584 Kings Road, SW6, 020 7731 4444 matthewupham.com

PARK TERRACE RESTAURANT For a truly memorable evening, celebrate the start of 2016 with a New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner at the elegant Park Terrace Restaurant. Enjoy a seasonally inspired three-course menu to the sound of popping corks, flowing Champagne, live music and laughter. Enjoy a glass of champagne on arrival and dance to the early hours with our live band. From £135. 020 7361 1999; royalgardenhotel.co.uk

HYDE PARK STABLES

MU DU Mu Du hats stand head and shoulders above the rest. The designs are sculptural and minimal, for the confident in mind. Each Mu Du hat demands to be noticed. With bold silhouettes and clean lines Mu Du hats are essential for 2015’s pared down minimal look. The Notting Hill-based design team brings you fashion's most covetable trends. mudu.co.uk

Hyde Park Stables brings the countryside to the centre of London. They offer beautiful riding through Hyde Park on their exceedingly well-mannered horses and ponies, plus arena lessons and also half day camps for children to enjoy. All levels of rider are welcome, from age four up. 020 7723 2813 hydeparkstables.com

BLINK BROW BAR Since its highly anticipated launch this autumn, the new blinkbrowbar flagship store on Ledbury Road is fast establishing itself as London’s ultimate ‘brow destination’. Offering a full menu of services – from brows to nails – clients can relax during treatments and treat themselves to the award-winning bbrowbar product range available in store. To help with maintenance between visits, blinkbrowbar have launched a Brow Kit which is a handy travel case that includes all of one’s essential brow tools for £30. 51 Ledbury Road, W11; 020 7221 1663 blinkbrowbar.com

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DECEMBER 2015

25/11/2015 15:29

PINES AND NEEDLES

YOKO

Let their trees spark your imagination! Order in store, online or by phone, sit back and let them create that festive feeling. From delivery to installation, they even offer a decoration service to create that perfect look whether it's classic, festive, boutique or child-friendly. If online shopping is not for you, experience the festivities live in their London stores. 020 3384 9420; pinesandneedles.com

Yoko, established in 1973, is a leading luxury pearl jeweller. Renowned for their use of unique pearls in rare natural colours and exceptional sizes, the family run team consists of the finest pearl specialists in the world. Their highly skilled craftsmen create innovative designs, from one of a kind masterpieces to modern everyday treasures like stacking rings and ear jackets. 49 Beauchamp Place, Knightsbridge, SW3 1NY. 0207 589 1564; yokolondon.com.

DU MAURIER WATCHES Diamonds, rose gold and motherof-pearl take centre stage on this stunning ‘Rebecca’ ladies watch. This fabulous, Swiss-made, limited edition timepiece will add elegance and a little sparkle to every occasion. Rebecca ladies watch, £485; 0845 519 3074 dumaurierwatches.com

PARADISE

ONEFINESTAY

Paradise by Way of Kensal Green is the perfect setting for every occasion and can be hired for all sorts of events. The stunning private function rooms have hosted birthdays, leaving dos, wedding celebrations and daytime conferences. They can comfortably accommodate 10 to 50 guests for private dining or up to 150 for drinks & canapés. Through December chef Cat Ashton serves a delicious three-course Christmas menu, with a delicate festive twist. 020 8969 0098, theparadise.co.uk

onefinestay has found a way to take the hassle out of opening your home to paying guests when you're away. They look after everything – from marketing your home to cleaning and preparing it with their own sheets, towels and toiletries before each stay. They look after the guests too, which means they do all the work to earn you additional income. 020 3763 3804, onefinestay.com/absolutely

PULLMAN EDITIONS Pullman Editions designs striking original limited-edition posters that capture the enduring appeal of Art Deco. Their newlycommissioned posters feature glamorous winter sports and summer resorts around the world, as well as historic automobiles. There are over 100 designs available to view and buy online at at £395 each. 94 Pimlico Road SW1W; 020 7730 0547 pullmaneditions.com

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ABSOLUTELY / PROMOTION

VENETIA STUDIUM Sophistication, refined techniques, a high quality finish and attention to details are the distinctive features of each Venetia Studium product, from Fortuny® Lamps to soft furnishing, clothing and accessories, all handcrafted in Venice. Fortuny® Lamps are exclusively produced by Venetia Studium, the only company in the world entitled to use the trademark. 199 Brompton Road SW3, 020 7225 0110, shop@venetiastudium.com

FINE DINING AT THE SLOANE CLUB

PLUS ONE GALLERY Plus One Gallery is pleased to be hosting a solo exhibition by artist Paul Cadden, running 9 December to 5 January. Escape the bustling department stores and stop by the gallery for your Christmas gifts. Housing an array of different styles to suit all, browse the shelves and seek advice from the friendly team. Open weekdays until 6pm and Saturdays until 3pm. plusonegallery.com

Entertain friends and family in the Linleydesigned Sloane Club dining room, sip cocktails on the sunny roof terrace or take afternoon tea in the tranquil Garden Room. Chelsea Membership allows access to all dining facilities through the week and accommodation at the weekend. Membership starts from £350 per annum. Call 020 7730 9131 and quote ‘Absolutely Chelsea’ to apply. 52 Lower Sloane Street, SW1W 8BS; sloaneclub.co.uk

KAY ME kay me – Tokyo’s leading handmade jersey dress is back in London for a limited time. kay me is designed with busy women in mind – always machine washable, stretchy and so soft to the touch. This kimono inspired cache-coeur uses traditional Japanese colours for instant elegance. Slip on a jacket and it’s perfect for the office too. kayme.co.uk

BE-SNAZZY

THE COMMANDER

From stocking fillers to exotic holiday shopping and one-of-a-kind gifts, this pop-up is bringing creativity back into Christmas shopping. Eight quirky brands have joined forces to turn an empty space on the Fulham Road into a stunning one-stop-shop for your gifts. The Christmas Box will be open for two weeks only. 2 - 14 December; 273 Fulham Road, SW10 be-snazzy.com

The Commander in Westbourne Grove is the perfect place for an intimate Christmas lunch with friends or for hosting your bespoke company Christmas party for up to 150 people. Throughout December the Notting Hill venue will be running a delicious three-course Christmas Set Menu, giving you the taste of the festive season from only £35 per person. 47 Hereford Road, W2, 020 7229 1503; thecommanderbar.co.uk

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DECEMBER 2015

25/11/2015 15:29

SPOIL YOURSELF WITHOUT SPOILING YOURSELF

Super-healthy, delicious and nutritious food and drink Vegan, raw, organic, sugar-free and wheat-free specialities (also for kids) Alcohol-free sugar-free cocktails, juices, shakes and good-for-you desserts

“If you do spot Stella or Paul, for the love of God don’t let them leave before trying a pudding” ”There’s a constant buzz about cool vegan café and bar Redemption” “Worth staying sober for”

020 7313 9041

6 Chepstow Road, London W2 5BH Monday - Friday 12pm - 11pm Saturday 10am - 11pm & Sunday 10am - 5pm www.redemptionbar.co.uk

Can’t leave the office or don’t want to leave home? Get our amazing food delivered directly to your door with supper.london @redemptionbar

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> TABLE TALK

p. 76

FOODIE GIFTS

p. 79

CHRISTMAS RECIPES: DAYLESFORD ORGANIC & SCANDI KITCHEN

p. 80

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

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DECEMBER 2015

25/11/2015 14:46

What to drink

kitchen

CONFIDENTIAL West London’s Christmas food news, served with thirst-quenching wines Wo r d s P E N D L E H A R T E

A GREAT MATCH Wine & Food Pairings for the Month of December B y J a n e Pa r k i n s o n

CHESTNUT AND LEEK TART

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

MOULES MARINIÈRE

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

CLEMENTINE CAKE

henever the tang of orange is in a recipe, savoury or sweet, I always think a wine with a distinct orange flavour makes the best pairing. Tuscany’s celebrated sweet wine Vin Santo – here made with Trebbiano grapes – is the perfect answer because it’s packed with marmalade lusciousness, and this one is so intense and long-lasting it really complements the flavour of the cake. u Vignamaggio Vin Santo del Chianti Classico 2008, £21.50; corneyandbarrow.com

janeparkinson.com

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Babelle’s feast Jumeirah Carlton Tower's pop - up Canele shop

The Canelé is a traditional delicacy from the Bordeaux region, described as the ‘new macaroon.’ With its baked caramelised crust and soft custard centre, it is the latest trend in gourmet temptations. Flavours include Dulce de Leche Canelé and a Vanilla Canelé filled with Perigord Black truffle caramel. Yum. Cadogan Place, SW1; babelle.uk

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FOOD & DRINK / NOTES

8 RUSTIC FESTIVITIES

of the best

The Rabbit; The Shed

Chelsea restaurant, Rabbit and sister Notting Hill restaurant, The Shed, will be offering the perfect festive feast to fill shoppers with Christmas cheer. With an array of Yuletide treats including woodcock pate, black truffle and manor farm cheddar fondue and venison cigars, the Gladwin brothers will have Santa Claus himself flying in. rabbit-restaurant.com theshed-restaurant.com

SPARKLING WINES

CHARLES HEIDSIECK Rosé Millésimé 2006, £84.95; champagnedirect.co.uk

LEAFY EATS The Ivy Kensington Brasserie

Dining in Kensington has just got more exciting with the arrival of The Ivy on the High Street. Typically, tables will be held back for walk-ins, and the modern British menu will be all-encompassing, including breakfast, elevenses, lunch, afternoon tea, weekend brunch, light snacks and dinner. 96 Kensington High Street, W8 theivykensingtonbrasserie.com

BILLECART SALMON Blanc de blancs grand cru nv, £66.99; selfridges.com

DOM PÉRIGNON Björk and Chris Cunningham Edition Rosé 2004, £310; harrods.com

PIPER HEIDSIECK Rare 2002, £124; amazon.co.uk

editor’s

PICK

EASTERN DELIGHTS

FREIXENET Cordon Negro Cava, £10; tesco.com

East India Company

Known for fine teas and other delicious goodies, East India Company have outdone themselves again with their Christmas offerings. With a range of hampers available, it’s the Ultimate Festive Flavours kit that has got our name on. eicfinefoods.com EDEN PROJECT English sparkling wine, £24.50; edenproject.com

PIGGY PERFECT The Ginger Pig

We are long-standing fans of The Ginger Pig’s sausage rolls, but it’s the Christmas offerings that get us most excited. This year, they’ve crafted one containing chunks of English stilton and fresh cranberries, wrapped up tight in an all butter puff. thegingerpig.co.uk

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GUSBOURNE A selection, from £29.99; gusbourne.com

RUINART Blanc de Blancs, Brut, £57; bbr.com

DECEMBER 2015

25/11/2015 11:26

A new Italian icon. Now in London. Carlo Rotta brings to London the iconic Gianduiotto, made in Turin with the authentic gianduia, the quality blend of chocolate preferred by Italian people. Combination of cocoa and hazelnut paste, gianduia was first created in Turin in 1806. carlorotta.com

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FOOD & DRINK / GIFT GUIDE HABITAT

BISCUITEERS

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

Après Ski Biscuit Tin, £39.50; biscuiteers.com

HARVEY NICHOLS

CARLO ROTTA

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

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

PAUL A YOUNG

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

LE COMPTOIRE DE MATHILDE

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

HABITAT

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

NIEDEREGGER JOHNNIE WALKER X TUMI

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

Elves Workshop Advent Calendar, £16; niederegger.de

WAITROSE

Cheese Selection, From £20; waitrose.com

GIFTS FOR GOURMANDS

FORTNUM & MASON

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

Satisfy even the fussiest of epicureans with these premium food products B y r o m y va n d e n b r o e k e

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

ARABICA BAR & KITCHEN

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

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HARRODS

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

DECEMBER 2015

25/11/2015 11:24

WHAT A CARVE UP! Recipes for Christmas Day and Boxing Day from Daylesford Organic W o r d s g av e n f u l l e r

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CARVED TURKEY

with boned, stuffed and rolled turkey leg M e th o d 1 Remove the turkey legs in the same way as you would a chicken (cut along the skin on the inner thigh, press down on the leg, cut where it joins the body and then when you reach the hip joint press down hard and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll pop open so you can complete the removal of the leg). I then take the back part of the backbone, by lifting the bird from the parsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nose end and giving it a short but sharp tap downwards. This cracks the backbone at the base of the crown by using the weight of the crown as a pivot. Simply then cut through where the natural break is. And then the wings: just cut through the skin around the first knuckle of the wing and cut through the joint. Remove the wishbone and the crown is now ready for the oven, along with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper.

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FOOD & DRINK / CHRISTMAS RECIPES 2 Now for the legs. Lay the leg and thigh skin-side down. Take a sharp knife and cut down to the bone with the tip of the knife. Slowly cut the meat from the bone in the thigh. Do this down to the joint. First you will feel for the bone with the tip of the knife, and then when it is visible you will cut around it, loosening it from the surrounding meat. The joint is where the bone is closest to the skin, so again just slowly and carefully coax the meat and skin away from this joint with the tip of the knife. Try not to cut the skin – this isn’t critical but the more intact the skin, the better the presentation. Continue cutting the meat along the drumstick bone. Separate the skin muscle above the bone and then you are able to see and follow the bone through to the end.When the meat is loose off the bone you will still have the tendons in the drumstick part to contend with. Turn the leg flesh around and look for the tendons still attached in the meat. Using your knife cut them away carefully, trying not to remove too much flesh. 3 Now for the assembly. On baking parchment large enough to wrap both turkey legs, lay streaky bacon, taking care to overlap each rasher to the same size of which both legs would take side by side. Then place both legs flat and side by side on top of the bacon. In a mixing bowl, mix 500g of sausage meat along with 100g of semi-dried cranberries and 5g thyme. Then lay the sausage mix along the center of the legs, with both hands either side of the baking parchment and from the bottom roll the turkey leg over the sausage mix and continue rolling to form a seal. Then rewrap with tinfoil to encase and twist either end to seal. This is now also ready to cook. 4 To cook, place a cooling wire at the bottom of a roasting tray, then place the crown and rolled leg on top, followed by placing into a pre-heated oven 180c for 1 hour 20 minutes, making sure to turn the rolled turkey leg over halfway through and baste the crown every 2030 minutes. Once the crown is cooked and juices run clear, remove from the oven (and leave to rest for 20 mins), but return the rolled leg to the oven and cook for a further 10 mins. Remove from the oven and again rest for at least 20 mins. 5 Once rested, remove the foil and parchment from the rolled leg and present on carving board along with the crown. To serve, simply carve a few slices from the breast and one slice from the rolled leg.

LEFTOVER BUBBLE & SQUEAK CAKES with grain mustard and a fried egg Ser ves 2

his is a fantastic way to use up your leftover roasted vegetables, sprouts and potatoes on Boxing Day. These little cakes could easily be brunch, late lunch or even a quick supper after a busy Christmas Day.

I n g r e d i e nt s • 6-8 Roast potatoes • 3 Egg yolks • Handful leftover sprouts • 1 tbsp Grain mustard • Handful roasted vegetables • Seasonal salad leaves • Handful fresh herbs • Brown Sauce (Optional) • 2 tbsp Flour • 4 Blue Legbar eggs • 25 g Butter M e th o d 1 Begin making the mash by crushing the roasted potatoes in a large bowl. Add to this the chopped up root vegetables, sprouts, lots of fresh herbs and the grain mustard, seasoning well with salt and pepper. Next, add the egg yolks to bind the mixture together with the flour to dry it out slightly-

81 NH_Dec15_DAYLESFORD.indd 81

you may not need all the flour. Give the mixture a really good squeeze with your hands to bring everything together. It should hold without being sticky. 2 Dust a smooth surface with flour and shape the mixture into four cakes- a palette knife is incredibly helpful for this. Heat a pan with a dash of grape seed oil and the knob or two of butter and fry until golden on both sides- if you like, you can pop these into the oven for a few minutes to warm through. 3 Finally, fry the eggs in the last of the butter with a dash of oil over a low heat until just cooked, season with salt and pepper and arrange the cakes on to four plates, finishing with the eggs and a dollop of brown sauce. ◆

The last date for ordering your Christmas bird from Daylesford is 13 December. Daylesford.com

DECEMBER 2015

25/11/2015 10:06

XXXXXX / XXXXXXX

NORDIC GINGER BISCUITS Ser ves 50-70

t’s not Christmas without each Scandinavian person consuming a mountain of these biscuits. It’s such fun to make these with the kids, and really get into the festive mood together.

I n g r e d i e nt s • 550 g plain flour • 1 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda • 1 teaspoon ground ginger • 1 teaspoon ground cloves • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon • 1 teaspoon ground cardamom • pinch of ground allspice • pinch of salt • 150 g butter, room temperature • 200 g golden syrup • 100 g granulated sugar • 100 g dark brown sugar • 150 ml double cream • 1⁄2 teaspoon orange zest • icing sugar, to dust

Scandi Kitchen

Christmas recipes inspired by the culinary traditions of Scandinavia Wo r d s B r o n t Ë a u r e l l P i c t u re s p e t e r c a s s i dy

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

CHIS_Dec15_Recipes.indd 82

M e th o d 1 Mix the flour and bicarbonate of soda with the dry spices and salt. Add the butter and all the other ingredients and mix until you have an even dough. It may still be sticky, but shape into a log and wrap in clingfilm and leave to rest in the fridge overnight before using. Try to resist eating the dough every time you pass by the fridge. Yes, we know it is hard not to do. 2 Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) Gas 6. 3 Roll out the dough thinly on a floured surface and use cookie cutters to cut your desired shapes. You want the biscuits to be thin. 4 Bake in the preheated oven on lined baking sheets – each batch will take 5–6 minutes depending on the thickness. You want the biscuits to be a darker shade of brown. 5 Remove from the oven and cool on a cooling rack. Dust with icing sugar and serve or keep in an airtight container. Serve on a pretty patterned plate. ◆

82 25/11/2015 12:38

FOOD & DRINK / RECIPES

CINNAMON WREATH WITH RYE Ser ves 10-12

sometimes make this when I need a centrepiece for a big fika session or birthday party. Essentially, a big cinnamon bun with a bit of extra oomph.

I n g r e d i e nt s Dough: • 25 g fresh yeast or 13 g dried yeast • 80 g butter, melted • 300 ml whole milk, at room temperature • 50 g sugar • 2 teaspoons ground cardamom • 375 g white strong flour • 80 g rye flour • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 1/2 beaten egg

dough hook, or 10 minutes by hand. The dough should only just reach the point of not being sticky. Leave to rise until it’s doubled (around 40 minutes). 3 To make the filling, put the softened butter, cinnamon, cardamom and sugars into a bowl and mix well. 4 Tip the dough out on a floured surface and work it with your hands, adding more flour, until you have a good, mouldable dough that does not stick and can be rolled out. Cut the dough in half and roll

each piece in a rectangular shape (around 50 cm x 40 cm/16 x 20 in.). Spread the butter mixture evenly across the dough. Add three-quarters of the chopped nuts across the surface. Roll the dough up lengthways so you end up with a long, tight roll. Place on a baking sheet and shape into a round circle, attaching the ends. Using scissors, cut slices almost to the base. Spread each roll out to the side and flatten slightly until you have done the whole wreath. Ensure the wreath is quite flat. Let the wreath rest again for 30 minutes under a clean dish towel. 5 Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) Gas 6. Brush the wreath gently with the remaining egg/ milk and bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes or until done. 6 Brush at once with a very thin layer of warmed syrup, then sprinkle over the rest of the nuts and keep under a damp dish towel until cooled a bit. Once cooled, make the icing using a little icing sugar and a few drops of warm water and pipe over the wreath. ◆

Filling: • 100 g butter (spreadable) • 3 teaspoons ground cinnamon • 1 teaspoon ground cardamom • 125 g dark brown sugar • 25 g caster sugar • 70 g chopped toasted nuts, e.g. almonds and hazelnuts Topping & Brushing: • 1/2 beaten egg mixed with a dash of milk, for brushing • Syrup (see page 150) • icing sugar and warm water • piping bag fitted with a plain nozzle M e th o d 1 If using fresh yeast, pour the melted butter into the milk. The temperature should be between 36–37°C (97–98°F). Add the yeast and stir until dissolved. Pour into a mixing bowl. 2 If using dried yeast, heat the milk to 36–37°C (97–98°F) and pour it into a bowl. Sprinkle in the yeast granules and whisk together. Cover with clingfilm and leave in a warm place for 15 minutes to activate. Pour the mixture into a mixing bowl. Add the melted butter, sugar and cardamom and stir again. Add 250g strong flour and all the rye flour, salt and egg. Mix until everything is incorporated. Work the dough until it almost stops sticking and has a shiny surface – about 5 minutes with a mixer using a

83 CHIS_Dec15_Recipes.indd 83

DECEMBER 2015

25/11/2015 12:38

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24/11/2015 24/11/2015 15:29 13:14

FOOD & DRINK / RECIPES

GLÖGG is an ESSENTIAL part

of Christmas all over SCANDINAVIA.

IT’S ENJOYED THROUGHOUT the COLD MONTHS and especially on SUNDAYS in ADVENT leading up to CHRISTMAS

• 1 teaspoon dried Seville orange peel (or other orange peel if you can’t get Seville) • 7 whole cardamom pods • 15–16 whole cloves • 80 g caster sugar • flaked almonds and raisins, to serve M e th o d 1 Pour the wine into a saucepan, add the rest of the ingredients and heat to around 75–80°C (165–170°F), stirring to dissolve the sugar. Be careful not to heat it above 80°C (170°F) degrees, or the alcohol will start to evaporate. Remove the saucepan from the heat and leave to infuse for at least one hour, longer if possible.

GLÖGG NORDIC MULLED WINE Ser ves 4

lögg is an essential part of Christmas all over Scandinavia. It’s enjoyed throughout the cold months and especially on Sundays in Advent leading up to Christmas. Glögg tends to be traditionally mulled with cinnamon, cardamom, cloves and dried orange peel. This is recipe is borrowed from my sister-in-law Annika, who makes bottles and bottles of this in

3 To serve, pour the wine into a saucepan and heat it up (again, take care not to let it boil). Place a few flaked almonds and raisins in the bottom of your serving cups, and pour the Glögg over the mixture. 4 If you want to give your Glögg an extra kick, add a splash of either vodka, aquavit, rum or cognac to the bottom of the cups just before you pour in the Glögg. ◆

her Gothenburg kitchen every December. We love having a café full of people drinking hot wine and eating ginger biscuits – the aroma is amazing and it promotes a lovely atmosphere of ‘hygge’ and chit chat. I n g r e d i e nt s • 1 x 70-cl bottle red wine (the quality doesn’t matter) • 1–2 cinnamon sticks • 1 teaspoon dried root ginger

85 CHIS_Dec15_Recipes.indd 85

2 Strain the mixture and return the mulled wine to the bottle (use a funnel to make life easier for yourself). The Glögg can be kept for at least a week.

The Scandi Kitchen by Brontë Aurell, Ryland, Peters & Small, £16.99

DECEMBER 2015

25/11/2015 12:38

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JAMIE STEVENS LONDON

JAMIE STEVENS, AWARD WINNING HAIRDRESSER

t the Jamie Stevens salon you will be given a warm welcome, you will be offered a coffee, tea, a green juice, glass of wine, whatever you fancy. We can get you lunch and happy to chat away, or keep quiet whilst you work on your phone or simply switch off. But what we won’t ask is “what can we do for your hair today?”

Multi-award winning hairdresser Jamie Stevens, who also manages a portfolio of celebrity clients, is insistent that the stylists at his Kensington salon, are the experts and that their job is to advise clients on the hair they should have. We’ll give you the hair you should have, not the hair you think you want, or the hair you’ve seen on someone else; those styles might work in the salon, but they don’t last at home. Our job is, after a thorough consultation to understand what you want from your hair, as well as assessing its condition, texture and natural shape, is to advise you on the cut, colour and style you should have. Opening Times: Tuesday - 10:00 - 19:00/Wednesday - 10:00 - 20:00/Thursday - 10:00 - 20:00/Friday - 10:00 - 19:00/Saturday - 09:00 - 18:00 Monday & Sunday - CLOSED

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25/11/2015 09:47

FOOD & DRINK / REVIEWS

THIS IS A PLACE that delivers WHAT IT PROMISES.

Which is meat, MOSTLY

AUSTENS BBQ A smoky feast in Kensal Rise Wo r d s P E N D L E H A R T E

‘W

e smoke all day’ is the boast. Smoking, drinking whisky, avoiding vegetables and squirting extra sticky sauce onto your meat is order of the day at Austens, a small corner of Kensal Rise that will be forever Texas. With its large welcoming bison head and outsize sign simply announcing ‘beer’ (after all, what else?) this is a place that delivers exactly what it promises. Which is meat, mostly. It’s the kind of food you imagine Elvis eating, in his later years. Designwise, it’s stylish and consistent – reclaimed peeling timber, industrial tin counters, enamel plates – and the surprisingly large downstairs is a party space run by DJ Yoda, who co-founded the

place as a result of liking the food while touring the American Deep South. So, the menu: to start, it’s hush puppies with chilli jam – these are delicious deep fried balls of cornflour and condensed milk, spicy rather than sweet, and Nora fried shrimp with remoulade – hot, juicy and moreish. Next comes pulled pork, a simple mound of meat, soft and tasty, with sweet, sticky South Carolina sauce plus sides of fresh, creamy coleslaw and disappointingly lukewarm and oversweetened BBQ pit beans. We also brave the ‘mutha’ – named for its badass slow-smoked brisket debris (and they mean slow: a full 17 hours’ worth of slow smoking) with pickles and extra sausage in a brioche bun, which is big and enjoyable, in a guilty pleasure kind of way. Austens is not devised for the kind of person interested in juice cleanses or similar – it’s an unapologetically simple

89 NH_Dec15_Food_Review.indd 89

place that’s all about dining the American dream – and drinking it too, with a vast selection of bourbons and terrifying hard shakes such as the Burt Reynolds (roasted peanut, malt banana, bourbon) and the Jeffrey Lebowski (vanilla, kahlua, vodka). There’s a large list of craft beers, providing helpful descriptions like ‘loves smoky meat’ and ‘grassy arse’. So don’t say we didn’t warn you. ◆

● Austens BBQ

109 Chamberlayne Road NW10, 020 8964 3200 austensbbq.co.uk

DECEMBER 2015

25/11/2015 12:30

DINING LIVING OFFICE

London & Surrey

KITCHENS

020 7253 3206 or 01372 379810

BEDROOMS

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WHARFESIDE_DEC.indd 1 Absolutely Magazine December 2015.indd 1

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

> INTERIOR INSPIRATIONS

p. 92

CHRISTMAS WITH THE CONRANS p. 95 GIFTS FOR THE HOME p. 99

TAKE A SEAT Christmas is all about the table – and a sturdy oak frame will provide for all eventualities. We love this Ashby dining table, made from beautiful white oak and comfortably siting six to eight guests, with ample leg room for everyone. Ashby dining table, £1,995; heals.com

91 NH_Dec15_interior_Opener.indd 91

DECEMBER 2015

25/11/2015 12:04

10 of the best

christmas decorations

Nordic textiles and Christmas decorations to brighten every corner

HOLLY’S HOUSE

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

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

LPWK

Pignola Christmas Bauble, £14.50; alessi.com

LAVENDER & GREEN

Enjoy 10% off door wreaths when mentioning Absoutely. lavendergreen.co.uk

must

HAVE

JO HECKETT

Mini Bauble Decoration Set; £32, culturelabel.com

BOMBKI

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

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

NH_CH_Dec15_Interior_Insp.indd 92

Perfect Finnish Klaus Haapaniemi As winter draws in, we’re going to be cosying up with artisanal and lifestyle brand Klaus Haapaniemi’s darkly seductive textiles. Founded in 2010 by Haapaniemi and Mia Wallenius, the Londonbased brand offers ravishing designs deeply rooted in Finnish folklore, nature and traditional decorative arts. klaush.com

92 25/11/2015 12:01

HOMES & INTERIORS / NOTES

CRYSTAL CLEAR

Ve n u s r o x This Notting Hill institution and purveyor of beautiful objects specialises in stunning natural crystals and bespoke jewellery. Versatile and captivating, the uncut crystals and polished spheres can either add a glamourous accent to a room or act as an eye-catching centrepiece. 25 All Saints Road, W11; venusrox.com

editor’s

PICK

IN PLACE

Dorothee Schumacher Hospitality has always been a matter very close to Dorothee Schumacher’s heart. She has created a limited edition package of hand-painted paper sets, place cards and invitations for Christmas, all proceeds from which will be donated to a charity supporting women in war zones. £69; dorothee-schumacher.com

THE LINEN WORKS

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

PERFECTLY PUT TOGETHER

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

WEDGWOOD

FLOOR SHOW

Neoclassical Snowflake; £25, wedgwood.com

Stepevi Contemporary rug company Stepevi has opened a newly redesigned showroom on Kings Road. Designed by Turkish interior designer Zeynep Fadıllıoglu, the refurbished space encapsulates the ethos of luxury coupled with modernity with its contemporary interpretation of traditional Turkish design and architecture aesthetic. 274 King's Road, SW3 stepevi.com

ANTHROPOLOGIE

Pine Cone Gnome; £14, anthropologie.com

THE ART OF CRAFT

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

93 NH_CH_Dec15_Interior_Insp.indd 93

SKANDIUM

Red Dalahorse Decoration; £3.50, skandium.com

DECEMBER 2015

25/11/2015 12:01

ES AD

ENE

S AV I N G S H

My Life. My Style. Hand-crafted, made to measure Luxaflex® Duette® Shades bring rooms to life; making a personal style statement – whilst bathing your home in natural light and comfortably insulating against heat and cold. And with inspired design, innovative operating ideas and pure quality woven into each individual piece, you’ll always know you’ve made the perfect choice. To arrange your free Luxaflex® Design Consultation, visit: luxaflex.co.uk/mystyle LUXAFLEX® SHOWROOMS: Gilroy Interiors Gerrards Cross 01753 899007 | Belle Vue Blinds Egham 01784 471122

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24/11/2015 16:05

HOMES & INTERIORS / CHRISTMAS

SOPHIE’S WORLD Christmas with the Conrans is as stylish as it gets. Sophie Conran takes time out of her decorating schedule to talk festivities with Absolutely Wo r d s P e n d l e H a r t e

ABSOLUTELY: Where will you be for the big day? SOPHIE CONRAN: I will be in the country with my family. We have a lovely house near Marlborough. There were 20 of us a couple of years ago but this time there will be ten or so. A nice number – me and my husband, my children, my mum and her boyfriend. My dad might even come.

a really nice huge one from Lidgate’s – they’re expensive but the best quality. ABS: What’s on your Christmas list? SC: We are selling a lovely cashmere travel set in coral, it’s got an eye mask and a blanket and I'm hoping someone will give me that. I’m always keen on books – novels and beautiful coffee table books too. I also desperately need some socks. I love flowers, so old jugs and vases and things to put flowers in are always welcome, and I love smelly bath stuff too.

ABS: What’s on the menu and who’s cooking? SC: We’ll all muck in because we all like cooking. There’s a debate at the moment about whether to have a rib of beef or a turkey. Some people don’t like turkey, and we’ve had a goose for the last couple of years but I’m voting for turkey; I love all the bread sauce and stuffing. We’d get

ABS: What’s best – new decorations or old ones? SC: I get a few very beautiful new ones every year and add them to my old ones. I’ve got lots – cupboards full – of wreaths,

95 NH_DEC 15_SOPHIE CONRAN_v2.indd 95

DECEMBER 2015

25/11/2015 12:41

HOMES & INTERIORS / CHRISTMAS paper balls, snowflakes and stars. This year I’ve added a spotty tree-topper, like a Byzantine minarette-type thing, which we’re selling on the website. ABS: And should decorations be minimalist or extrovert? SC: I don’t go over the top – I’ve been to places where they really do go over the top and I’d say I’m half way. Though as I get older it does get more and more. This year I’m planning to gather masses of ivy from the woods near our house and wrap it all around the staircase with loads of fairy lights, and hope not to bring too many bugs in. ABS: What will be on your tree? SC: Everything! Actually, we’re having two trees. A little tree for the kids to decorate themselves with things that don’t break, because I find that I get quite precious and start bossing them around, and that’s not really the point. My own children are 19 and 21 but my little nieces will come round for some tree decorating. I’ve actually got a tree in my flat in London already, a lovely tree, which we decorated for a shoot with some of our lovely pastelly new baubles. I’m not

This year I’m

PLANNING TO

gather masses of IVY from the woods NEAR OUR HOUSE and wrap it all AROUND THE STAIRCASE WITH LOADS of fairy

lights

so keen on themes, though my stepmother did a tree once that just had birds on it and was so beautiful. ABS: What marks the start of Christmas for you? SC: It’s already started; I love the planning and have already got stockings and advent calendars. I’m very over-excited about it – it feels a bit like a parallel universe because that’s all you’re doing. I just love everybody being around and it brings me a lot of pleasure. I’m doing seven stockings this year. ◆ sophieconran.com

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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96 25/11/2015 12:42

Interior Design I Furniture I Accessories I Fabrics

www.anabarretointeriors.com sales@anabarretointeriors.com 4-6 Poplar Court Parade, Richmond Road, Twickenham TW1 2DT T: 0208 744 9777

ANABERETTO.indd 1

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LONDON

A N N U A L S A L E S T A R T S 1 4 th D E C E M B E R

Battersea I Chelsea I Clerkenwell I Knightsbridge I

Mayfair I Notting Hill

Wandsworth I Kent I Surrey +44 (0) 333 011 3333

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At Home Design Service available

20/11/2015 14:50

HOMES & INTERIORS / GIFT GUIDE GEORG JENSEN

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

TOM DIXON

Stone Pestle and Mortar £149; johnlewis.com

BOCCI

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

PINCH

‘Nim’ Table, £4,350; pinchdesign.com

ALESSI

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

ALESSI

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

FORNASETTI

Small Hand Design Basin, £100; selfridges.com

JOE CARIATI

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

ALESSI

VENINI SPA

‘Bolle’Glasswear, POA; twentytwentyone.com

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

OYUNA

‘Emun’, £72; discoverdeliver.com

STEPEVI

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

THE+AUDIO

THE+RADIO, £219; theplusaudio.com

BEN ESTHOP

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

99 Chis_Dec15_IntProd.indd 99

DECEMBER 2015

25/11/2015 11:46

DISCOVERMORE

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

Open Days December 3rd/8th (7pm/9.30am) January 12th (9.30am) February 5th/9th (9.30am/9.30am)

discovery, laughter and friendship.

T: 0208 742 2038 E: info@kewhouseschool.com W: www.kewhouseschool.com

An independent co-educational senior school for students aged 11-18 in West London KHS.indd 1

@kewhouseschool

20/11/2015 17:23

> SMALL TALK

p. 103

MINI MADNESS: PARTYING WITH GABRIELLA & OCTAVIA

p. 105

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

101 NH_Dec15_Kids_Opener.indd 101

DECEMBER 2015

25/11/2015 14:48

WESTWAY.indd 1

20/08/2015 15:51

KIDS & EDUCATION / NOTES MAKE A WISH

Gardner and the Gang Cult Swedish kids clothing label Gardner and the Gang have teamed up with Harrods to launch the ‘Never Stop Wishing’ collection just in time for Christmas. Festive prints and slogans feature heavily – but with a contemporary twist. Exclusive to Harrods; harrods.com

SMALL TALK The top products for cold winter days and cosy Christmas nights

FUN

& GAMES

HYDE PARK STABLES Wo r d s P E A R L B OY D

nce a child has got a bike, a scooter, a skateboard, a watch, a party outfit, a complete set of felt tips, a football and shelves full of reading matter, there's not really anything left to give them for Christmas. Having too many things is confusing and unnecessary. So at some point, gifts start coming in envelopes rather than boxes, and since money is the least imaginative gift of all, the experience voucher is a far better envelopefiller. Hyde Park Stables offers a range of gift vouchers that can be used on horse riding, horse riding lessons and courses, with a group lesson or ride starting at £85. Brilliant for both experienced riders and complete beginners, you can't go wrong when giving a riding voucher. Unless they had their heart set on a pony, of course. ◆

RABBIT RABBIT Born D irect

Talking might be a milestone your babe is yet to reach, but you can make the most of those precious earlier developments by snapshotting them with these fun minimilestone cards featuring iconic bunny Miffy. An ideal gift for pregnant friends. Mini Miffy Milestone Cards, £12.99; borndirect.com From £85; hydeparkstables.com

SNOWY SNACKS

WRAP UP

 Mamas & Papas Keep your little one wrapped up warm in the most stylish pram suit we’ve set eyes on. Made from corduroy, the suit is embossed with a stylish Wiltshire floral print by Liberty London, has detachable mitts and cosy lining. ◆ £55; mamasandpapas.com

Biscuiteers

 Indulge with the latest festive collection from Biscuiteers. Ideal as stocking fillers or celebratory treats, choose from hand-iced tree decorations and cakes as well as DIY kits for budding bakers. We love the Snowman Collection. ◆ The Snowman Collection, £42.50; biscuiteers.com

103 CHIS_Dec15_Kids_Notes.indd 103

DECEMBER 2015

25/11/2015 16:12

We offer manufacturer guaranteed services, MOT testing, breakdown recovery, homestart, tyre ďŹ tting and puncture repairs, wheel alignment and geometry, bodywork and accident repairs, ECU reprogramming and much more.

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Call us on 0207 221 9989 or Visit RSR-Racing.co.uk

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25/11/2015 09:48

KIDS & EDUCATION / ENTERTAINMENT

MINI

MADNESS Absolutely attends a party organized by Gabriella & Octavia Wo r d s P e n d l e H a r t e

ho knows what a Martian walking into the room would conclude about this human ritual. It’s very dark, save for a throbbing green light, and there’s a lot of screaming over a fast bassline. Once their eyes adjusted, the Martian would be able to make out a lot of small shadowy forms hanging onto a rope and pulling with an intensity that borders on the violent, but would notice also that the screams are actually laughter. This is a disco party for a ten year-old child. It’s not a situation that many adults would find appealing but it is a necessary rite of passage in many London circles. At the centre of what is in fact a game of tug-of-war is Gabriella Rankin, managing the situation with the skill of a major league referee and the assurance of a headmistress as well as the boundless charm of a CBeebies presenter. This is a woman who has come a long way since donning a Snow White costume and walking around Portobello handing out business cards. When not on stage (her one-woman show Dumped was a smash hit at this year’s Edinburgh Festival), the

actor-turned-standup comedian runs a successful business in children’s parties. And you can see why she’s good at it. Gabby speaks in a fast, breathless way, energy and enthusiasm radiating from her smile. ‘People love parties,’ she says,

The actor-turnedstandup COMIC RUNS a sideline in children’s PARTIES

and clearly so does she. Though her standup act is definitely not suitable for children, her general manner is very much in tune with the way their minds work. So, she and her team offer a variety of parties designed for London’s well-heeled tots. ‘A lot of our business started out among the Wetherby mums,’ she explains, but these days their services are on

105 NH DEC 15 GABRIELLA & OCTAVIA.indd 105

demand all over London, from Hampstead to Wimbledon and the home counties. Options include the disco party, which – in addition to a high-energy tugof-war and an equally shouty game involving wrapping children, mummy-style, in loo paper – encourages guests to develop their own routines and show them off to each other (yes, even the boys) and compete for an award. Gabriella and her assistant Freddy provide lights, music, sweets, make-up and glow-sticks, and two hours of non-stop fun leave even the least excitable guests pink-faced and starving. But it’s not all about the disco – the company’s party options include the theatrical party (staging an actual production), the treasure hunt (roaming around finding clues), the adventure party and for preschoolers the storybook party and the soft play one. Plus of course they can provide decorations, entertainment, catering, party bags, cake and everything a party needs. With clients ranging from Trotters to Facebook via Candy Crush and Tiffany, these are the only people you need to call next time your offspring are approaching a milestone. u gabriellaandoctavia.com

DECEMBER 2015

25/11/2015 11:45

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

On track for the perfect Christmas LTM.indd 1 2015.154_M_Christmas retail advertising_Handbags and scarfs_Absolutely.indd 1

18/11/2015 29/10/2015 16:00 15:57

> VAL D'ISERE'S COOLEST ACCOMMODATION REVEALED p. 108

VAL D’ISERE Val d'Isere's Chalet Marco Polo is the Rolls Royce of ski accommodation, offering the kind of rock star lifestyle that one can only imagine takes place on Jay Z’s mega yacht. Read all about it on page 108

107 NH_DEC15_Travel_Opene.indd 107

DECEMBER 2015

25/11/2015 14:50

Cool Thing Party like a rock star on and off the slopes in Val d’Isère at the spectacular Chalet Marco Polo Wo r d s g e m m a b i l l i n g t o n

etween the thrill of the slopes and the hedonism of après-ski, sometimes the only chance to enjoy a moment’s peace in Val d’Isère is on the ski lifts. Sitting on the rickety, slow-moving chairlift, you suddenly have time to truly take in your surroundings. There’s the powdersoft snow below your ski-clad feet, and the dramatic mountain peaks that glisten in the sunlight, stretching as far as the eye can see. It’s an otherworldly beauty that – try as you might with cold, gloveless fingers – can never be captured on camera. There is no Instagram filter that could do these views justice. Val d’Isère and the neighbouring town of Tignes form the expansive ski resort Espace Killy, named in honour of local sporting hero, Jean-Claude Killy. The region covers some 300km of pistes with over 44km of cross country action and 137 runs. Val d’Isère attracts a loyal clientele who return season after season, often comprised of the well-heeled younger generation who arrive en masse in neon thermals to let their hair down at the

legendary après-ski hangouts. This includes the world-famous La Folie Douce, an icon of alpine debauchery since 1980. Today Val d’Isère is regarded as one of the world’s finest ski resorts, but it wasn’t until the early 90s in the run-up to the 1992 Albertville Winter Olympics, when it hosted the men’s downhill skiing event, that it was really put on the map. It is in the heart of this picture-postcard town, hidden among a cluster of large but fairly innocuous-looking chalets, that you will find Val d’Isère’s most exclusive address. Chalet Marco Polo is the Rolls Royce of ski accommodation, offering the kind of rock star lifestyle that one can only imagine takes place on Jay Z’s mega yacht. Named the ‘Best Ski Chalet in France’ by the World Ski Awards for the past two years running, Chalet Marco Polo is part of an impressive portfolio of super-deluxe chalets owned and operated by Consensio, all of whose properties are hand-picked and fully catered, offering the ultimate in five-star luxury. Spread across four floors and covering some 1000m sq ft of space, Chalet Marco Polo comfortably accommodates up to 14 people. The six bedrooms are all ensuite, unique in style and equipped with

THIS IS the kind of ROCK STAR LIFESTYLE you’d expect from JAY Z’S mega YACHT

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

NH_Dec15_Valdisere DPS.indd 108

108 25/11/2015 12:46

TRAVEL / WANDERLUST

109 NH_Dec15_Valdisere DPS.indd 109

DECEMBER 2015

25/11/2015 12:46

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25/11/2015 09:49

TRAVEL / WANDERLUST

THE WALLS ARE CLAD in 24-carat gold MOSAIC

Christian Lacroix toiletries. However, it’s at the main entrance that you’re greeted with the chalet’s jewel in the crown. Inside the large wooden main door is a luxurious swimming pool and hot tub area decorated like a Buddhist temple. The walls are clad in 24-carat gold mosaic, the pool lit an ethereal green with an impressive, albeit unnecessary, dropdown projector screen. The intricate wooden ceiling above the pool was drafted in from a 150-year-old Moroccan souk. Wellness extends to the lower levels, where you’ll find a state-of-theart gym with two of everything so that couples can workout together. Next door there’s a treatment room, a hammam and two hydro massage beds to soothe aching, post-ski legs. That is, of course, if you can pry yourself away from the chalet to hit the slopes in the first place. Skiing almost feels like a superfluous activity when faced with the dizzying amount on offer at the chalet, and it soon becomes difficult to leave its sheepskin throw warmth and Cire Trudon-infused radiance. Not least because guests are waited on hand and foot by a team of

friendly and efficient staff, including an excellent in-house chef and beauty therapist. No request is too much; my hand is rarely without a glass of freshly poured Perrier Jouët. The team expertly strikes the balance of being genuinely cordial without becoming sycophantic, professional yet never aloof. They’ll recommend the best restaurants and clubs, drive you practically to the foot of the ski lift lest your legs do any unnecessary additional exercise, and even

¢ Consensio Chalets offers a week’s stay at Chalet Marco Polo from £2,491 per person based on 10/12 people sharing six rooms. This rate includes breakfast, afternoon tea, pre-dinner champagne, dinner and a chauffeur-driven car. 0203 393 0833; consensiochalets.com

111 NH_Dec15_Valdisere DPS.indd 111

fill your bathtub with snow so that you can snap an outlandish bikini-clad selfie (not me, but this did happen). Aside from the first-rate service and unlimited amenities (which also include a games room with pool table and arcade machines, and a fantastic wine tasting room), what makes Chalet Marco Polo stand out is its spectacular decor. A melange of exotic and contemporary styles on the backdrop of a classic alpine chalet, the interior might seem haphazard on paper – think colourful, exotic furniture, Pop Art style paintings and sculpture-like glass chandeliers – yet everything works in complete harmony. The effect is elegant and extraordinary, and every detail, right down to the last doorknob, has been hand-selected by the chalet’s owner, Jean Bernard Montel. This polite French businessman has rather exceptional taste; book your holiday here and you’ll be admired for yours, too. But be warned: adjusting to normal life back home will be no mean feat. ◆

DECEMBER 2015

25/11/2015 12:46

Notting Hill: 12 Notting Hill Gate, London W11 3JE 020 7243 6932 Knightsbridge: 19 – 21 Pavilion Rd, London SW1X 0HD 020 7245 6677 Mayfair: 136 Wigmore St, London W1U 3SF 020 7935 7075

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Showrooms

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DESIGN CONSULTANCY BESPOKE FURNITURE LIGHTING CURTAINS & BLINDS WALLPAPER & PAINT CARPETS & RUGS FABRICS & TRIMMINGS UPHOLSTERY & RESTORATION

Big Table.indd 1 24/10/2012 17:24

02/10/2013 14:34

INSIDER DEALINGS 135 CHISWICK HIGH ROAD, LONDON, W4 2ED • 020 8994 1030

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_ADVERT PLACEMENTS.indd 6

13/10/2014 16:51

25/11/2015 09:56

PROPERTY ROUND UP

WOODSFORD SQUARE W14

ÂŁ3,500,000

p.128

NIGEL LEWIS

IN THEIR OWN WORDS

p.158

stunning, completely refurbished and internally rebuilt modern townhouse set over four floors. The house has a spectacular kitchen/dining room leading onto the westfacing patio and there is a well proportioned entertaining space with a large drawing room on the first floor. u

HOLLAND PARK

113 NH_Sep15_PFC.indd 113

p.146

020 7371 1111

carterjonas.co.uk

DECEMBER 2015

25/11/2015 14:51

â&#x20AC;˘ KNIGHTFRANK.indd 1

Absolutley Magazine -December 2015

24/11/2015 15:16

Willesden Lane, Willesden Green NW2 A stylish blend of contemporary and period architecture Recently refurbished to an exacting standard this wonderful family home offers superb family living across 3 floors. 6 bedrooms, 3 reception rooms, 5 bathrooms, garden and private parking. EPC: F. Approximately 398 sq m (4,284 sq ft). Freehold

Guide price: £3,995,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/queens-park queenspark@knightfrank.com 020 8022 5465

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

KnightFrank.co.uk/QPK150114

• KNIGHTFRANK.indd 2

24/11/2015 15:16

23/11/2015 17:12:45

Marylands Road, Maida Vale W9 Two bedroom flat with garden and garden studio for sale An architecturally designed flat on the lower ground floor of an attractive period building providing 2 bedrooms, bathroom, reception, kitchen, dining area, garden and garden studio. EPC: C. Approximately 107.9 sq m (1,161 sq ft). Share of freehold

Guide price: £1,200,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/queenspark queenspark@knightfrank.com 020 8022 5465

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

KnightFrank.co.uk/SJW150350

• KNIGHTFRANK.indd 3

Absolutley PLC Single - December 2015

24/11/2015 15:17

23/11/2015 17:20:50

Wellington Road, Kensal Rise NW10 Three bedroom penthouse with roof terrace This bright and contemporary penthouse apartment in Kensal Rise is presented on the top floor of a modern building with lift. The flat provides 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, open plan reception with dining area and kitchen. The penthouse benefits from ample outdoor space and 2 parking spaces.EPC: D. Approximately 153 sq m (1,647 sq ft). Leasehold

Guide price: £1,500,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/queenspark queenspark@knightfrank.com 020 8022 5465

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

KnightFrank.co.uk/NGH150201

• KNIGHTFRANK.indd 4

Absolutley PLC Single - December 2015

24/11/2015 15:17

23/11/2015 17:20:50

Brondesbury Villas, Queen's Park NW6 R ef urbish ed f our bed room h ouse w ith ga rd en Having recently been comprehensively refurbished to an extremely high standard by the current owners this extensive 3-4 bedroom property is offered to the market in immaculate condition. The flat also benefits from its own front entrance, 2 reception rooms, 2 bathrooms and a terrace. EPC: C. Approximately 176.4 sq m (1,899 sq ft). Leasehold

Guide price: £1,600,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/queenspark queenspark@knightfrank.com 020 8022 5465

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

KnightFrank.co.ukQPK150103

• KNIGHTFRANK.indd 5

Absolutley PLC Single - December 2015

24/11/2015 15:17

23/11/2015 17:20:50

Season’s Greetings Helping you move in 2016 Knight Frank Queen’s Park 60 Salusbury Road, Queen’s Park NW6 6NP 020 8022 5468 queenspark@knightfrank.com KnightFrank.co.uk/queenspark

•CT582_Festive KNIGHTFRANK.indd 6 Ad_Absolutely.indd 1

24/11/2015 23/11/2015 15:17 15:29

EXCEPTIONAL RESULTS IN CHELSEA

SOLD Cresswell Gardens, Earls Court SW5 Guide price: £3,150,000

SOLD

Oakley Street, Chelsea SW3 Guide price: £795,000

Nick was ‘thoroughly professional

throughout the whole process. His attention to detail and energy to get my property sold impressed me greatly and I would happily use Knight Frank again.

Mr M, Vendor

’

To find out how we can help you please contact us KnightFrank.co.uk/chelsea chelsea@knightfrank.com +44 20 8022 6039

SOLD

Harcourt Terrace, Chelsea SW10 Guide price: £750,000

SOLD

Argyll Mansions, Chelsea SW3 Guide price: £650,000

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Limerston Street, Chelsea SW10 Guide price: £3,850,000

Elm Park Road, Chelsea SW3 Guide price: £9,750,000

SOLD

Paultons Square, Chelsea SW3 Guide price: £5,650,000

SOLD Priory Walk, Chelsea SW10 Guide price: £7,750,000

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

SOLD

Drayton Gardens, Chelsea SW10 Guide price: £5,950,000

SOLD

Chelsea Square, Chelsea SW3 Guide price: £18,995,000

24/11/2015 24/11/2015 15:17 11:05

EXCEPTIONAL RESULTS IN SOUTH KENSINGTON SOLD

Hereford Square, South Kensington SW7 Guide price: £5,750,000

SOLD

Rosary Gardens, South Kensington SW7 Guide price: £1,350,000

Knight Frank were ‘truly professional throughout the sale process, seeing me as a client rather than a sales opportunity. they always provided excellent advice and worked hard to achieve a successful sale.

Mr JC, Vendor

’

To find out how we can help you please contact us KnightFrank.co.uk/southkensington southkensington@knightfrank.com +44 20 8128 1253

SOLD

Bolton Gardens, South Kensington SW5 Guide price: £4,350,000

SOLD

Earls Court Gardens, Earls Court SW5 Guide price: £3,500,000

•RHP_331736_KF_AbsPCL_Dec15.indd KNIGHTFRANK.indd 8 2

Courtfield Gardens, Earls Court SW5 Guide price: £4,275,000

Cornwall Gardens, South Kensington SW7 Guide price: £4,350,000

SOLD

Bramham Gardens, Earls Court SW5 Guide price: £1,650,000

SOLD Stanhope Gardens, South Kensington SW7 Guide price: £2,275,000

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

SOLD

Onslow Gardens, South Kensington SW7 Guide price: £4,500,000

SOLD

Cornwall Gardens, South Kensington SW7 Guide price: £1,350,000

24/11/2015 24/11/2015 15:17 11:04

facebook.com/struttandparker twitter.com/struttandparker

struttandparker.com

Tryon Street, Chelsea, SW3

A well presented three bedroom freehold cottage in the heart of Chelsea with a west-facing patio garden. Arranged over three floors, this charming house offers the feeling of a much larger property.

SP CHELSEA.indd 1

ÂŁ2,850,000 Freehold

Chelsea 020 7225 3866 chelsea@struttandparker.com

18/11/2015 15:46

Ifield Road, Chelsea, SW10

A well presented four bedroom family house occupying approximately 2,666 sq ft, which benefits from a south-west facing garden, a roof terrace and a selfcontained one bedroom lower ground floor flat.

SP CHELSEA.indd 2

ÂŁ3,950,000 Freehold

Chelsea SW10 - 020 7373 1010 chelseaSW10@struttandparker.com

18/11/2015 15:46

facebook.com/struttandparker twitter.com/struttandparker

struttandparker.com

Portland Road, W11

A beautifully presented four bedroom family house in Holland Park. Spread over four floors this stunning house has excellent entertaining space including a formal ground floor drawing room.

ÂŁ2,850 per week *Unfurnished

0207 221 1111

notting.hill@struttandparker.com

Pottery Lane, W11

A spacious newly refurbished house in Holland Park with a private garage. Finished to the highest of standards, this stunning property benefits from excellent entertaining space.

ÂŁ1,950 per week *Furnished

0207 221 1111

notting.hill@struttandparker.com

SP_NH.indd 1

24/11/2015 16:29

Kensington Gate, Kensington, W8

An exquisite five bedroom family house located on this pretty garden square, just a short walk from Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park.

£7,000 per week* Unfurnished

0207 938 3866 Holland Park Mews, Holland Park, W11

An exceptional and immaculately presented three bedroom mews house, occupying approximately 1,386 sq ft, over two floors only, with the advantage of a garage.

£1,395 per week* Unfurnished

Kensington 0207 938 3866

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

SP_NH.indd 2

24/11/2015 16:29

facebook.com/struttandparker twitter.com/struttandparker

struttandparker.com

Arundel Gardens, Notting Hill, W11

A beautifully refurbished flat situated in a striking stucco fronted period building in the heart of Notting Hill.

ÂŁ1,425,000 Leasehold

Notting Hill 020 7221 1111 nottinghill@struttandparker.com

SP_NH.indd 3

24/11/2015 16:29

Abingdon Road, Kensington, W8

A charming and well presented four bedroom family house, occupying 2,005 sq ft over four floors, with excellent entertaining space as well as a lovely terrace.

ÂŁ3,495,000 Freehold

Kensington 020 7938 3666 Kensington@struttandparker.com

SP_NH.indd 4

24/11/2015 16:29

PROPERTY ROUND UP The inside scoop in your area

KFH FEATURE PROPERTY: QUEENS GARDENS, W2; PRICE: £3.9M

HOUSE HUNTING

PAUL HYMAN

Sales Manager KFH, Bayswater

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

ALBION CLOSE W1

£4.95m eading estate agency Kay & Co is offering those looking for privacy and security, the opportunity to live in a delightful gated

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

NH_Dec15_News.indd 128

£285,000, one of these recently changed hands for just under £3.25m!

MOST SATISFYING TRANSACTION I’VE HAD….

A few months ago, I helped a young man to find a house who had previously been looking with another agent. He described what he wanted, saying he had a budget of up to £2m. I had an off-market property for close to £3m in Hyde Park – I asked him to come and see it, and although he wasn’t initially keen on visiting, he fell in love with it immediately. I NEVER THOUGHT I’D SEE….

The massive price growth in W2. I’ve been in the business for a long time and used to sell flats in a particular building for around mews house on Albion Close, Hyde Park. One of just 29 gated mews in London; Albion Close is, a short stroll from Hyde Park and was once the address for Sir Michael Caine in the 1960s. This delightful 2,900 sq. ft. property was originally two mews houses and has since been merged into one lateral home, creating spacious interiors set behind a beautiful brick façade on the cobbled street.

I NEVER THOUGHT I'D SEE THE MASSIVE PRICE GROWTH IN W2

THE PROPERTY I’D MOST LIKE ON OUR BOOKS IS…

Buckingham Palace, a sole agency on this would be pleasing, might generate some healthy interest and viewings with some interesting parties. Of course, that’s as long as our client’s price expectations are realistic and result in a favourable fee! ◆

Kinleigh Folkard & Hayward Bayswater, 020 3792 1902; kfh.co.uk

Joe Le Beau, Sales Manager at Kay & Co’s Hyde Park office commented: “Of the 339 mews in London, just 8.5% are gated, making this an extremely rare opportunity for a potential purchaser looking for a spacious and private home." of London.

Kay & Co Marylebone and Regent’s Park office, 020 7486 6338 kayandco.com

128 25/11/2015 17:11

PROPERTY / NEWS NEWS

5 MINUTES WITH

RUSSELL SIMPSON MARKS 25 YEARS OF LETTINGS ecently completing its 25th year of business, the Russell Simpson lettings department has celebrated by doubling the size of its team. The two new team members bring with them a wealth of experience, which will help grow the department’s portfolio and expand the presence of the agency across prime central London. Russell Simpson has one of the most prominent lettings departments in West London and the team has achievied over £300,000 of rental income in the year to date. ◆

THE EXPERT VIEW

RICCO LESLIE

Lettings Manager KFH, Fulham & Chelsea HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN IN THIS AREA?

I’ve lived in Fulham for two years but worked in and around the area for five years. WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE PROPERTIES RIGHT NOW?

MULBERRY WALK, £2,700 PER WEEK

Head of Research Strutt & Parker

THE GATEWAYS, £1,400 PER MONTH

Russell Simpson 020 7225 0277 russellsimpson.co.uk

The new complex apartments in the Imperial Wharf area. The penthouses offer great views over London and magnificent facilities i.e. gym, parking, on site restaurants.

WESTBOURNE PARK ROAD, W2: SOLD FOR £3.37M

WHAT ARE YOUR MARKET PREDICTIONS FOR THE COMING MONTHS?

I imagine it will only pick up, allowing opportunities for higher rents to be achieved in the new year. Despite people holding onto their properties while monitoring trends in the sales market, applicant volumes remain a lot higher than supply. Fulham is continuing to draw an attractive family and professional crowd. WHAT DO YOU ENJOY WHEN NOT WORKING?

I’m a foodie who likes vibrant environments and extreme sports.

Kinleigh Folkard & Hayward Fulham & Chelsea, 020 3792 4508; kfh.co.uk

NEWS

LONDON HOMES STILL ACHIEVING RECORD PRICES wo Notting Hill properties sold by Chestertons have broken the pound-per-sq-ft record for houses in their streets in the space of a few months, according to the latest data from LonRes. An un-modernised house in Chepstow Villas sold in the summer for £6.25m, equating to

£2,136 per sq ft, followed by the sale of another un-modernised property on Addison Avenue for £6.35m (£2,493/sq ft). The same agent has just completed a third sale that saw a house on Westbourne Park Road sell for £3.37m (£1,648/sq ft). ◆

chestertons.com

SPOTLIGHT ON [ AVERAGE ASKING PRICE ]

STEPHANIE McMAHON

[ AVERAGE PROPERTY VALUE ]

£2,069,629 W11 £1,990,535

WHAT CAN WE EXPECT FROM THE PROPERTY MARKET IN 2016 AND BEYOND?

s we move through the last quarter of the year we predict that the strongest growth for 2015 will have been in the engine rooms of the South East (5.8%) and the East of England (7.1%), locations which benefit from their proximity to London and prime commuter catchments. Scotland is also showing good growth (5.8%) with renewed market vigour following last year’s referendum and May’s election. The five-year outlook sees these three regions having some of the strongest growth, although Greater London will strengthen again throughout the time period (19.8% 2015-2019 inclusive). The volumes in PCL have shown a distinct slowdown over the past year, although we still anticipate price growth in 2015 (2.5%). Such a thin market shows much greater volatility and has no doubt been impacted by tax changes following a period of strong and sustained growth. Other themes of note for 2016 are the London Mayoral elections in May 2016. Sadiq Khan will stand for Labour, Zac Goldsmith for the Conservatives and Caroline Pidgeon for the Liberal Democrats. London’s housing is a focus for all the candidates, although no details of their plans have as yet been disclosed. In addition, with the US Federal Reserve now indicating the potential to move rates in December / early 2016, we can expect the Bank of England (BoE) to follow suit in the first half of next year. There is real concern about the rate increases, albeit in incremental shifts. ◆ struttandparker.com

Data provided by zoopla.co.uk

129 NH_Dec15_News.indd 129

DECEMBER 2015

25/11/2015 17:12

M E L B U RY R OA D, W 1 4

â&#x20AC;˘ NEW ANTHONY SHARP.indd 1

A spectacular apartment with a large south-facing private garden in a prime Holland Park location.

24/11/2015 17:50

If you are interested in this property please contact me. Anthony M Sharp 020 7243 8398 anthonysharp@anthony-sharp.com

An exceptional apartment, with it’s own private south-facing garden, on the raised ground floor of this magnificent Grade II* listed period building . Many of the original features remain including impressive high ceilings throughout. Holland Park itself and the shopping and transport facilities of Kensington High Street and Holland Park Avenue are within walking distance of the property.

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Two Bedrooms. Reception. Bathroom. Private Garden. Raised Ground Floor. Listed Building. EPC: E £3,500,000 Leasehold

24/11/2015 17:50

W Y N N S TAY G A R D E N S , W8

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A light and spacious apartment in this wellregarded and conveniently located red-brick mansion block.

24/11/2015 17:50

If you are interested in this property please contact me. Mike Spicer 020 7243 8398 mike@anthony-sharp.com

Situated on the ground floor of this popular portered mansion block, located just off Kensington High Street, this is a well-proportioned lateral apartment now in need of updating. Wynnstay Gardens is ideally located on Allen Street and is a moments walk from all the first class shopping and transport facilities of Kensington High Street.

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Reception. Dining Room. Kitchen. Three Bedrooms. Two Bathrooms. Porter. EPC: D ÂŁ2,950,000 Leasehold

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A L L S A I N T S R OA D, W 1 1

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A stunning contemporary home located moments from Notting Hill’s myriad temptations.

24/11/2015 17:50

If you are interested in this property please contact me. William Reeve 020 7243 8398 william@anthony-sharp.com

An impressive apartment arranged over two floors with a fabulous garden to the rear. The ground floor comprises a huge reception that flows into a glazed dining area that overlooks the garden. The two bedrooms are positioned downstairs and have access to separate bathrooms. The property makes use of all its beautifully designed 1382 sq. ft. of floor area which is ideal for entertaining in this central Notting Hill location.

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Two Bedrooms. Reception. Two Bathrooms. Maisonette. Ground/Lower Ground. Garden. EPC D ÂŁ2,000,000 Freehold

24/11/2015 17:50

T LE C L A R E N D O N R OA D , W 1 1

Entrance Hall. Study. Double Drawing Room. Large Eat-in Kitchen. Master Bedroom Suite. Four Double Bedrooms. Two Bathrooms. Separate Apartment. Off-Street parking. EPC: F £8,500 Per Week*

An exceptional family house with off-street parking and direct access to communal gardens. A fantastic period family house, with direct access to a superb communal garden, in prime Holland Park. This impressive property has been extensively refurbished to a very high standard throughout and benefits from spacious living space on a grand scale. The property further benefits from having a separate apartment and off-street parking. Clarendon Road is one of Holland Park’s most prestigious addresses.

*All tenancies will incur a set-up fee of £420 (incl. VAT) and, should the tenancy renew, a further renewal fee of £120 (incl. VAT) on each occasion

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If you are interested in these properties please contact me. Stephan Buys 020 7243 8398 pm@anthony-sharp.com

M E L B U RY R OA D, W 1 4

Reception Room. Eat - In Kitchen. Three Double Bedrooms. Two Bathrooms. Study. Cloakroom. Private Garden. EPC: D £1,950 Per Week*

An elegant three bedroom duplex apartment with a private south-facing garden. A fantastic three bedroom ground and first floor apartment in this prime location, moments from Holland Park. The property features a light and spacious reception room with high ceilings, eat - in kitchen, three double bedrooms and direct access to a large mature private south facing garden. Melbury Road is ideally located near the green and open spaces of Holland Park as well as all the amenities on Kensington High Street.

*All tenancies will incur a set-up fee of £420 (incl. VAT) and, should the tenancy renew, a further renewal fee of £120 (incl. VAT) on each occasion

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H O L L A N D PA R K AV E N U E , W 1 1

Double Reception Room. Large Eat In Kitchen. Five Bedrooms. Three Bathrooms. Front and Rear Gardens. Roof Terrace. Off Street Parking. EPC: F £3,950pw*

An impressive period house, conveniently located and nicely set back from Holland Park Avenue. An exceptionally spacious five bedroom family house in Holland Park. The property has been refurbished to a high standard throughout and offers spacious contemporary living space including a 50 sq.ft. (approx) interior designed kitchen with direct access to a paved garden. There is off-street parking for two cars and the property is conveniently located for the amenities of Holland Park and Notting Hill.

*All tenancies will incur a set-up fee of £420 (incl. VAT) and, should the tenancy renew, a further renewal fee of £120 (incl. VAT) on each occasion

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24/11/2015 17:50

If you are interested in these properties please contact me. Sophie Clarke 020 7243 8398 sophie@anthony-sharp.com

CO R N WA L L G A R D E N S , S W 7

Two Bedrooms. Double Reception. Two Bathrooms. Roof Terrace. Communal Gardens. EPC: D £2,500pw*

An exceptional penthouse apartment offering superb accommodation. Perfect for entertaining! A fabulous two bedroom duplex apartment on this sought after garden square in South Kensington. The property benefits from an extraordinary 1,388 sq. ft. reception room and a roof terrace with fantastic views over London. Cornwall Gardens is located just off the Gloucester Road and is within walking distance of Kensington High Street and Gloucester Road underground.

*All tenancies will incur a set-up fee of £420 (incl. VAT) and, should the tenancy renew, a further renewal fee of £120 (incl. VAT) on each occasion

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carterjonas.co.uk

LOWER ADDISON GARDENS Holland Park W14

A bright and well-presented upper maisonette with views towards stunning communal gardens. The flat also has a roof terrace and balcony along with two double bedroom suites. The entrance is on the first floor.

Holland Park & Notting Hill 020 7471 9833 gareth.jones@carterjonas.co.uk

Reception room • 3 bedrooms 2 bathrooms • Kitchen • Roof terrace Access to communal gardens EPC rating D

Guide price £1,950,000

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HOLLAND PARK GARDENS Holland Park W14

A spectacular garden maisonette with small patio onto communal gardens in the heart of Holland Park. The apartment has extraordinary entertaining space with a high ceilinged double reception.

Holland Park & Notting Hill 020 7471 9833 gareth.jones@carterjonas.co.uk

Reception room • 3 bedrooms 3 bathrooms • Kitchen • Dining room Access to the communal gardens EPC rating D

Guide price £3,150,000

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Abingdon Road W8 £6,950,000 An exceptional six-bedroom townhouse with a private garage, swimming pool and cinema, perfectly situated south of Kensington High Street and within easy reach of Holland Park. Freehold. EPC=C

• Beautifully refurbished • Exceptional location • Excellent reception rooms • Swimming pool

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

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Garden Mews W2 £3,500,000 A refurbished three-bedroom house with a garage and a roof terrace, tucked away in this quiet enclave of Notting Hill, close to Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park. Freehold. EPC=C

• Beautifully finished • Wonderful entertaining space • Garage • Two terraces

NOTTING HILL SALES: 020 7313 2890 sales.not@marshandparsons.co.uk

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Willesden Lane NW2 £3,995,000 This exceptional six-bedroom family home has been renovated with no expense spared, offering spacious living and entertaining space with the amenities of Willesden High Road close by. Freehold. EPC=D

• Extensive refurbishment • Substantial family home • Six double bedrooms • Private driveway

QUEENS PARK SALES: 020 7624 4513 sales.qpk@marshandparsons.co.uk

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Aldridge Road Villas W11 £1,750,000 A superb two-bedroom upper maisonette occupying the top two floors of a well-maintained period conversion, located on a highly desirable road in Notting Hill. Share of Freehold. EPC=C

• Two bedrooms/two bathrooms • Open-plan kitchen/living space • Good condition • Fantastic views

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

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PROPERTY / COUNTRYSIDE

FAMOUS PLACES

London hides a plethora of celebrity homes. These are the most recent to come on the market Words NI G EL L E W I S

BIRTHPLACE OF BOND’S FAVOURITE CAR MAKER

pectre is being billed as the most spectacular and expensive Bond movie ever. And its film-makers certainly went to town on it, wrecking a record £24m worth of Bond’s favourite type of car, the Aston Martin. The car manufacturer’s first home was 16 Henniker Mews - a private gated mews near the Fulham Road in London – and it’s now for sale at £2.295m as a private home. The three-bedroom house has a large reception and kitchen/ breakfast room. There’s also a private parking space out front. It still boasts the famous garage, while a plaque on the outside of the building shows off its famous past. ◆ Strutt and Parker 020 7373 1010; struttandparker.com

rent but, but after success came calling, Conti paid £770,000 for this property in 1985. It’s subsequently seen many glamorous visitors including Arthur Miller, Farrah Fawcett and Rod Steiger. The four bedroom Edwardian property is set in large gardens, has a double-height ballroom as big as a church – perfect for thespian gettogethers - along with an unusual minstrel gallery. It’s also got a home cinema, outbuildings and roof terrace with great views over the capital. For sale at £15m. ◆ London Real Estate Advisors 020 3327 2750; londonrea.com

THE THREE-STUDIO FACILITY WAS BUILT IN 1978 TO HOUSE VIRGIN RECORDS

HOMES WITH THE ULTIMATE TRACK RECORD

re you a brit pop fan who worships at the album covers of Blur and Pulp’s long players Park Life, The Great Escape and Different Class? Then the 11 mews houses for sale on the Goldhawk Road in Shepherd’s Bush at the moment would make the ideal London pad. Being sold as the Townhouse Mews development they all exist within the large building that used to house The Townhouse recording studio. The three-studio facility was built in 1978 to house Richard Branson’s fast-expanding Virgin Records empire and is where an eye-boggling list of Brit pop and other recording artists laid down tracks. As well as Blur and Pulp, other groups who recorded at the studios included Suede, The Jam, Oasis, Coldplay, Muse, Duran Duran, Queen, Cranberies, Cure, Placebo and Kaiser Chiefs. One of the 20th centuries most famous and biggest selling singles, Candle in the Wind, was recorded by Elton John at the studios in the

CONTI’S HAMPSTEAD HOME FOR SALE

tage and screen veteran Tom Conti has lived with wife Kara at their rambling Hampstead mansion, The Wabe, for 30 years. Times and fortunes have changed for the ageing heart-throb, who’s starred in films such as Merry Christmas Mr Lawrence, Miracles and Saving Grace, and was most recently Miranda Hart’s dad in her eponymous sit-com. The couple had to leave their first London flat in 1968 because they couldn’t afford the £14 weekly

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£2.295 Million

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PROPERTY / STAR HOMES

£2.15

£15

Million

hours following Princess Diana’s funeral in 1997. The property was owned by Virgin until EMI bought out Branson in the early 1990s and subsequently sold the studio on to an independent, which ceased recording there in 2008. It then remained empty and unused until 2014 when an Irish developer snapped it up for £7.5 million. Each of the large, contemporarydesigned mews homes have four bedrooms and are on the market for £2.15 million. u Bective Leslie Marsh 020 7221 0330; bective.co.uk

SCENE OF A ‘LEGENDARY’ SHOOTING

ondon’s most infamous gangsters Ronnie and Reggie Kray terrorised large swathes of the capital during the 1950s and 1960s. And their lives are now being portrayed in a new film, Legend, starring Tom Hardy as both brothers and Emily Browning as Reggie’s longsuffering wife, Frances Shea. In the film the Krays’ childhood home, East London’s Vallance Road,

CONTI PAID £770,000 FOR THIS PROPERTY IN 1985. IT’S SUBSEQUENTLY FOR SALE AT £15M

was actually shot in Lambeth where an elaborate film set was built for the movie, including a World War Two bomb site. And this twobedroom house in Whittlesey Street was the backdrop to a number of scenes and is now on the market for £2.375m. The house has a master bedroom with en-suite shower room while on the ground floor there’s a large space which brings light to the lower ground floor. u Circa London 0203 137 7877; circalondon.co.uk

£2.85 Million

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£2.375 Million

GEORGIAN PILE’S BRUSH WITH FILM FAME

ike Leigh’s artistic biopic Mr Turner won its star, Timothy Spall, the best actor award at Cannes. When its film-makers were looking for backdrops they turned to this Georgian mansion in Woolwich. Grade II listed Rush Grove House was built in 1816 and bought by the Admiralty to become the home of General Sir Anthony Blaxland Stransham. It was sold by the army in 1986 and used as a family home until 2012 when a developer snapped it up for renovation. With four floors, six bedrooms and three bathrooms, agent Foxtons says great care has been taken to pay homage to the property’s Georgian features. u Foxtons 020 8432 7200; foxtons.co.uk

DECEMBER 2015

25/11/2015 14:53

W W W. B EC TI V E .CO.U K

N E IN

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FIND US ON

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CHELSEA

COMMERCIAL

0 20 75 89 6 67 7

020 7985 0715

KENSINGTON

LAND & NEW HOMES

020 7795 4288

020 7313 7711

NOTTING HILL

PROPERT Y MANAGEMENT

020 7221 4805

020 7221 0099

LADBROKE GROVE 020 7221 0330

W W W. B EC TI V E .CO.U K

BROOK GREEN

FIND US ON

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Fine Detail. Personal Luxury W E S T B O U R N E H O U S E B AY S W A T E R W 2

LEASEHOLD

· · · · · ·

From £1 . 36M - £3.795M

A sensational new development of just 20 apartments in the heart of W2. ‘Best Overall Development’ in the International Design Awards. Uncompromising design principles combine with a meticulous attention to detail. 24 hour concierge service and lift to all floors. Two secure parking spaces available. Available for immediate occupation.

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NEW HOMES OFFICE NEWHOMES@BECTIVE.CO.UK 020 7313 7711

24/11/2015 23/11/2015 10:05 17:38

W W W. B EC TI V E .CO.U K FIND US ON

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CHELSEA

COMMERCIAL

0 20 75 89 6 67 7

020 7985 0715

KENSINGTON

LAND & NEW HOMES

020 7795 4288

020 7313 7711

NOTTING HILL

PROPERT Y MANAGEMENT

020 7221 4805

020 7221 0099

LADBROKE GROVE 020 7221 0330

W W W. B EC TI V E .CO.U K

BROOK GREEN

FIND US ON

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Park Life PA N G B O U R N E AV E N U E N O R T H K E N S I N GTO N W 1 0

FREEHOLD

· · · · · ·

Fro m £2 .9 5 M

Luxury 5 Bedroom Town Houses. Contemporary Design. Gated Development. Secure Underground Parking. Views across Kensington Memorial Park. Available to move into now.

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LADBROKE GROVE OFFICE MM@BECTIVE.CO.UK 020 7221 0330

24/11/2015 23/11/2015 10:06 17:44

W W W. B EC TI V E .CO.U K FIND US ON

Draycott Avenue

CHELSEA SW3

Artesian Road

NOTTING HILL W2

An immaculate flat on the second floor (with lift) in this desirable portered mansion block. The property has been extensively refurbished and finished to a high standard. The closest transport links are at Sloane Square Underground Station (Circle and District lines). 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, cloakroom, 2 reception rooms, kitchen, porter, lift. EPC Rating D.

A beautifully remodelled house which has a period feel with many contemporary touches. The property benefits from fantastic reception space, ideal for family life and entertaining and boasts good natural light. 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms (1 en suite), reception room, kitchen/dining room, garden, off street gated parking. EPC Rating F.

FURNISHED £2,750 PER WEEK CH E L SE A O FFI CE 0 20 75 89 6 67 7

UNFURNISHED £2,250 PER WEEK NOTTING HILL OFFICE 020 7221 5388

Stanley Gardens

Sutherland Place

NOTTING HILL W11

NOTTING HILL W2

A rare and exciting maisonette boasting its own private entrance and direct access onto pretty and secluded communal gardens. 4 bedrooms, bathroom, en suite shower room, 2 reception rooms, dining room, kitchen, direct access to communal gardens. EPC Rating E.

A charming family house with an abundance of period features presented in an immaculate condition. 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms (1 en suite), double reception room, kitchen/dining room, study, utility room, cloakroom, roof terrace, garden, private off-street parking. EPC Rating E.

FURNISHED OR UNFURNISHED £2,250 PER WEEK NOTTING HILL OFFICE 020 7221 5388

UNFURNISHED £2,000 PER WEEK NOTTING HILL OFFICE 020 7221 5388

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CHELSEA

COMMERCIAL

0 20 75 89 6 67 7

020 7985 0715

KENSINGTON

LAND & NEW HOMES

020 7795 4288

020 7313 7711

NOTTING HILL

PROPERT Y MANAGEMENT

020 7221 4805

020 7221 0099

LADBROKE GROVE 020 7221 0330

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Pangbourne Avenue

NORTH KENSINGTON W1 0

Abbotsbury Road

H O L L A N D PA R K W 1 4

Built to an exceptional standard, these homes have been meticulously designed boasting flexible accommodation over five floors. 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms (1 en suite), en suite shower room, reception room, kitchen, dining room, family room, study, media room, gym, utility room, cloakroom, 3 terraces, courtyard, garden, underground parking. EPC Rating B.

An immaculately presented family house in this popular location in Holland Park. Whilst retaining beautiful period features the property has had a partial refurbishment to include a complete redecoration and new carpets throughout. 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en suite), cloakroom, reception room, dining room, garden, off street parking for two cars. EPC Rating C.

UNFURNISHED £1,800 PER WEEK NOTTING HILL OFFICE 020 7221 5388

UNFURNISHED £1,800 PER WEEK KENSINGTON OFFICE 020 7795 4288

Sirdar Road

Celbridge Mews

H O L L A N D PA R K W 1 1

B AY S W A T E R W 2

An exceptional new build house finished to exacting standards and offering very generous entertaining space. The property boasts wood flooring throughout, contemporary styled kitchen and bathrooms and good natural light. 3 bedrooms, bathroom, en suite shower room, 2 reception rooms, kitchen/dining room, utility room, cloakroom, terrace. EPC rating B.

A beautifully refurbished house finished to an exacting standard throughout. The property boasts a 21 foot reception room with wood flooring, ideal for entertaining and further benefits from good natural light. 3 bedrooms, shower room/sauna, en suite bathroom, reception room, kitchen, garage. EPC Rating D.

UNFURNISHED £1,495 PER WEEK NOTTING HILL OFFICE 020 7221 5388

UNFURNISHED £995 PER WEEK NOTTING HILL OFFICE 020 7221 5388

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Lexham Gardens

KENSINGTON W8

Chepstow Villas

NOTTING HILL W11

An exceptional lateral apartment prestigiously located in the heart of Kensington featuring a beautifully unique kitchen and dining area, opening on to a large patio. This elegant apartment is in immaculate condition. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, reception room, kitchen, dining room, patio, communal garden. EPC Rating D.

An elegant refurbished flat located on the first floor (with lift) of this impressive low built stucco fronted villa. The property has been furnished in a contemporary style and offers well proportioned rooms throughout. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en suite), reception room, kitchen. EPC Rating C.

UNFURNISHED £1 ,1 0 0 PER WEEK KENSINGTON OFFICE 020 7795 4288

FURNISHED £895 PER WEEK NOTTING HILL OFFICE 020 7221 5388

Portobello Road

Kensington Court

NORTH KENSINGTON W1 0

KENSINGTON W8

A stunning ground floor maisonette boasting a funky urban style interior. All elements of detailing, including the hand-finished kitchen, exterior living walls and beautiful copper radiators, have been designed and manufactured by Cubic Studios to give a completely unique and inimitable home. 2 bedrooms, 2 en suite shower rooms, reception room, kitchen, cloakroom, terrace. EPC Rating C.

A beautifully finished apartment within this sought after mansion block with porter in the heart of Kensington. Boasting state of art the kitchen and bathrooms, smart wood flooring and access to the beautiful gardens. 2 Bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en suite), reception room, kitchen, utility room, porter, lift, communal gardens. EPC Rating E.

UNFURNISHED £850 PER WEEK NOTTING HILL OFFICE 020 7221 5388

FURN ISHED OR UN FURN ISHED £775 PER WEEK KENSINGTON OFFICE 020 7795 4288

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CHELSEA

COMMERCIAL

0 20 75 89 6 67 7

020 7985 0715

KENSINGTON

LAND & NEW HOMES

020 7795 4288

020 7313 7711

NOTTING HILL

PROPERT Y MANAGEMENT

020 7221 4805

020 7221 0099

LADBROKE GROVE 020 7221 0330

W W W. B EC TI V E .CO.U K

BROOK GREEN

FIND US ON

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Collingham Place

KENSINGTON SW5

Addison Road

H O L L A N D PA R K W 1 4

A beautifully finished apartment within this sought after mansion block with porter in the heart of Kensington. Boasting state of art the kitchen and bathrooms, smart wood flooring and access to the beautiful gardens. 2 bedrooms, bathroom, open plan reception room/kitchen, balcony. EPC Rating D.

A truly stunning apartment with high ceilings situated within a smart conversion house in the heart of Holland Park. Newly refurbished to the highest standard the property offers hard wood floors to reception with private garden views and stylish kitchen. Bedroom, bathroom, reception room, kitchen, garden. EPC Rating D.

FURNISHED £650 PER WEEK KENSINGTON OFFICE 020 7795 4288

FURNISHED OR UNFURNISHED £625 PER WEEK KENSINGTON OFFICE 020 7795 4288

Lorne Gardens

Holland Road

H O L L A N D PA R K W 1 1

H O L L A N D PA R K W 1 4

A beautifully finished mews house in this desirable location in Holland Park. Offering newly refurbished kitchen and bathrooms, the property has wooden floors throughout and plenty of storage solutions. The beautiful open spaces of Holland Park are also within close proximity. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en suite), reception room, kitchen. EPC Rating E.

A truly beautiful apartment with use of a fully converted loft located in a conversion house moments from Holland Park. The property is double glazed, boasts new wooden flooring throughout, modern kitchen and bathroom, stylish furniture and views over the green gardens. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en suite), reception/dining room, kitchen. EPC Rating D.

FURNISHED £595 PER WEEK KENSINGTON OFFICE 020 7795 4288

F U R N I S H E D O R PA R T £ 52 5 P E R W E E K KENSINGTON OFFICE 020 7795 4288

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Lettings 020 7751 5100 www.farrar.co.uk

PRINCES GATE MEWS, SOUTH KENSINGTON, SW7 An immaculately presented three bedroom mews house situated moments from South Kensington, Knightsbridge and Hyde Park. The house is beautifully furnished to the highest standard with impeccable fixtures and fittings and comprises of three double bedrooms all with ensuite facilities, kitchen and dining room, a media room, a further shower room, utility room and cloakroom. EPC Rating: C.

FURNISHED

£3,950

per week*

*Tenants are advised when renting a property the advertised rent does not include council tax, water or utility charges. The administration fees are £175 (inc. VAT) and referencing charges of £40 per Tenant/Guarantor. The inventory check in cost will vary but should not exceed £150 and a 6-8 week deposit is required.

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SUMNER PLACE, SOUTH KENSINGTON, SW7 A remarkable and substantial stucco fronted family house situated over six floors and just moments from South Kensington. The house comprises a fabulous reception room on the first floor of the building with front and rear terraces, master bedroom suite and bathroom occupying the second floor, five further bedrooms and four bathrooms. There is a lovely kitchen and breakfast room with doors leading to a private garden and an additional separate dining room. EPC Rating: E. UNFURNISHED

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£4,250

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IN THEIR OWN

WORDS

CHRIS COOMBES Lettings Manager at KFH South Kensington Photography

R E B ECCA N O O N A N

grew up in a small town that lies on the western side of the Great Dividing Range, situated about halfway between Melbourne and Sydney. It’s a beautiful place that forms part of the Murray Food Bowl due to its amazing produce and excellent wine. I had a typical Australian upbringing and it wasn’t until I moved to London that I appreciated how much space we had at our disposal when growing up. I moved over in 2004 and very quickly I realised how much I loved London and started to put down roots. One of the things I was most struck by was the beauty of London’s architecture and this, combined with my natural curiosity about how people live, led me to apply for a job at a well-known agent. I worked my way up from negotiator to manager, and eventually helped open a new branch in Marylebone, which was a fantastic challenge. I love living in London and, until recently, was based in Brompton Cross, an area that

SOUTH KENSINGTON IS SO DIVERSE IN ITS MIX OF PEOPLE, SHOPS AND RESTAURANTS, THERE REALLY IS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

is somewhat of a blur between Chelsea and South Kensington. It offers the whole package: the world’s top museums are on your doorstep and you can easily pop to the King’s Road or Knightsbridge for some retail therapy. South Kensington is so diverse in its mix of people, shops, restaurants, cafes and bars, there really is something for everyone. I can have a full English in the morning, lunch at a Lebanese restaurant and dinner at a world class Italian restaurant, all within five minutes’ walk of each other. Sprinkle that with great shopping, amazing cultural attractions and beautiful architecture - why would you ever leave?

We deal with a wide array of clients and properties, each requiring a unique approach to ensure that they have the best experience possible. Some of our clients have just purchased their first buy-to-let and need handholding along the way, whereas others are the largest landlords in London. The properties are as mixed as the clients - we have small yet ideally located studio apartments, right up to large, interior designed houses. There are lots of exciting new ventures on the way and I am very much looking forward to the bespoke developments that are on the horizon. I’m confident they will add further character and make South Kensington even more attractive to potential residents. No matter what you do in life, if you don’t have a passion for it then there is little point. My passion for property gets me motivated every day, whether it’s helping a client find the right tenant, or helping a tenant find the perfect flat, I love making the time they spend in London that extra bit special. u

KFH / South Kensington / 020 3792 4571 / kfh.co.uk

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DENBIGH HOUSE, HANS PLACE £2,200,000

Located in this private close conveniently positioned in the heart of Knightsbridge, only a stroll to Harrods is this 2 double bedroom purpose built flat on the ground floor of a popular mansion block. The property has been completely renovated to a very high standard and boasts a large main reception with open plan fully fitted kitchen. 2 double bedrooms both with fitted wardrobes. 2 modern bathrooms. Underground storage. Parking. Access to the central gardens. 180 year lease.

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NEW YORK

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020 7339 3073

OAKINGTON ROAD, MAIDA VALE ÂŁ645 PER WEEK

A beautiful split level 3 double bedroom, garden flat to rent. Comprising a spacious main reception complete with working fireplace, ideal for cosy winter days indoors. A very large, fully fitted kitchen with ample space for dining. 3 double bedrooms. Spacious main bathroom with separate shower and bath, second W.C. Private rear garden. Storage cupboard. Private entrance. Ideally located on a quiet road with easy parking only an 8 - 10 minute walk to Warwick Avenue tube.

W W W. O N E P R O P E R T Y C O N S U LTA N T S . C O M OPC DEC.indd 4

24/11/2015 18:03

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The London Management Company provides both property and related lifestyle services to both private and corporate clients.

Fromfi nding finding perfect investment or office From the the perfect home,home, investment or office through to managing a pied a terre, rental property or building we offer the services and advice required the maxium out of our client property throughtotoextract managing a piedvalue a terre, rental property or investment. building we offer the services and advice required to

Finding or looking after a property in London can be complex and stressful â&#x20AC;&#x201C; we can ensure your acquisition is achieved with the best possible extract thebest maximum valueand outmake of our clients property terms at the possible value, sure the property is run efficiently in respect of maintenance and outgoings, resulting in the best possible investment. ownership experience â&#x20AC;&#x201C; our team is your team. you wewe do the Youbreathe, breathe, do rest. the rest. - Meet the team -

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LONDON MAN.indd 3

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��S

Making wishes come true

Searching for you Prime Central London Property RESIDENTIAL SALES, LETTINGS & MANAGEMENT

9 Spring Street London W2 3RA

astons absolute 1making wishes come true.indd 1 ASTONS.indd

t: 020 7262 2900 e: contact@astonslondon.com w. astonslondon.com @Astonslondon AstonsLondon

20/11/15 23/11/2015 19:15:41 09:35

ASTONS L O N D O N

Queens Gardens W2 ÂŁ1,875,000 Share of Freehold

astons absolute 2making wishes come true.indd 2-3 ASTONS.indd

Hyde Park location Lateral apartment Three double bedrooms Stucco building Family bathroom and shower room Communal gardens

23/11/2015 09:35

astonslondon.com

Westbourne Terrace W2 Grand period building Two bedrooms Modern kitchen Spacious reception Furnished Lancaster Gate location

ASTONS.indd 3

ÂŁ575 per week

20/11/15 23/11/2015 19:15:52 09:35

how delicious… …a professional local agent with the sweetest customer service

020 7937 9777 21 Earls Court Road, Kensington, London, W8 6EB Tel: 020 7937 9777 • 020 7938 3425 Email: info@rickmanproperties.com

www.rickmanproperties.com

RICKMANS.indd Rickman A4 Sales 1CHOSEN.indd 2

19/08/2015 24/07/2015 14:19 12:15

Elevated London living built on a reputation of excellence The Penthouse Collection, Prices on Application

Chelsea Creek Show Apartments and Marketing Suite 9 Park Street, Chelsea Creek, London SW6 2FS 020 3811 1784 sales@chelseacreek.co.uk | www.chelseacreek.co.uk

Computer generated image is indicative only.

CC.indd 1 STC_CC_Absolutely_PrimeCentral_297x210_Dec15.indd 1

Proud to be a member of the Berkeley Group of companies

24/11/2015 24/11/2015 15:22 11:30

Other past properties include Audrey and Jeff Lovelock's Holland Park home, Lansdowne House. The conversion of a recording studio into a huge, multi-storey property.

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

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

HN_Dec15_prop_G_DESIGN_DPS.indd 168

168 25/11/2015 15:00

PROPERTY / STYLE BIBLE

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

fter 16 years on our screens Channel 4’s Grand Designs TV show is now a national institution. And happily it’s still steered with wit and intelligence by Kevin McCloud through the minefield of documenting troublesome self-build projects. What few will remember is that it all started in London in 1999 at a house on Stock Orchard Street in Islington. Episode 1, Series 1 followed a couple building a ‘house of straw’ which then was still an almost laughable building material and technique. Since then a further 14 London houses have been given the McCloud treatment. Here we find out what happened to five of the more recent ones after the cameras left. ◆

Broom and interior designer Deborah Sheridan-Smith THE BUILD: The couple paid £405,000 for a tiny, triangle plot in between two streets of Victorian houses, and then sunk down to build a £1 million ‘Hollywood-style’ mini mansion. Main problem was gaining permission from 14 neighbours to do the digging. NOW: The couple put the property on the market late last year for nearly £4m but it isn’t clear whether they found a buyer or not. ◆

The Yard, East Dulwich

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

THE YARD

¢ East Dulwich WHEN: 2014 WHO: TV prop buyer Tracy Fox and film set artist husband Steve. THE BUILD: The couple had a Grafton Crescent, Camden

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

RUSSELL GARDEN MEWS

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

GRAFTON CRESCENT

¢ Camden WHEN: 2013 WHO: Taxi firm founder Jonathan

169 HN_Dec15_prop_G_DESIGN_DPS.indd 169

Bromley, 2011 – Paul and Penny Denby – Syvan Glade, Keston Park. Contemporary mansion that nearly ran out of funds

DECEMBER 2015

25/11/2015 15:00

EPC - E

Willesden Lane, NW2

£3,999,950 Freehold

Breathtaking detached double fronted period house restored

• 6 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms (4 en-suite)

to perfection with 100% attention to detail throughout. Laid

• 3 reception rooms, extravagant hallway

out over three floors the home is one of a kind - master bedroom

• Private gates, OSP for several cars, 100 ft garden

offers fabulous walk in dressing room & en-suite to be envied.

• Handmade bespoke kitchen, steel staircase

EPC - E

Manor House Drive, NW6

£3,395,000 Freehold

Outstanding detached family house arranged over 4180 sq ft

• 7 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms

situated in the heart of Brondesbury Park in a prestigious cul-

• 2 exceptionally spacious reception rooms

de-sac and within easy reach of excellent local transport,

• Breakfast room & 22 ft kitchen

shops and a selection of cafes and restaurants.

• Well maintained 91 ft rear garden & OSP

CAMERONS STIFF.indd 1

24/11/2015 11:16

Season’s Greetings and Happy New Year to all our clients

EPC - D

Chudleigh Road, NW6

£2,999,950 Freehold

Substantial detached double fronted house arranged over

• 6 bedrooms, 4 reception rooms, 3 bathrooms

three floors offering 3900 sq ft of accommodation and situated

• Contemporary kitchen leading onto garden

within the heart of Brondesbury Park close to transport links

• Garage, OSP and 112 ft rear garden

& amenities including sports clubs.

• Early viewing is highly recommended

EPC - E

Fordwych Road, NW6

£2,175,000 Freehold

This property needs to be seen to be appreciated spanning

• 6 bedrooms (including loft), 4 bathrooms

an outstanding 3000 sq ft over four floors in this semi-detached

• 58 ft open plan kitchen/reception room

house. Great position close to Kilburn Jubilee Line & West

• Loft converted into a cinema room with small roof terrace

Hampstead. Seeing is believing - fabulous family home.

• Glass bi-folding doors onto sunny 60 ft garden

CAMERONS STIFF.indd 2

24/11/2015 11:16

EPC - D

Dicey Avenue, NW10

£1,595,000 Freehold

Completely refurbished semi-detached property restored by

• 6 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms

the architect vendors creating a contemporary stylish & unique

• Bespoke kitchen & dining room

family home offering plenty of lateral space. Close to Willesden

• Reception, study, loft conversion

Green (Jubilee Line) and Thameslink Stations.

• 57 ft rear garden, OSP, good location

TWO RESERVED

Walm Lane - 141walmlane.co.uk, NW2

Prices from £625,000

Situated within the Mapesbury Conservation Area and finished

• 3 bedroom apartment, 2 bathrooms + private garden

to perfection is this stunning restored period property offering

• 2 bedroom apartment with large windows

6 bespoke apartments - Licht designer kitchens & Laufen

• 2 bedroom apartment, 2 bathrooms + private garden

bathroom accessories + contemporary features.

• 2 bedroom penthouse apartment, open plan area

CAMERONS STIFF.indd 3

24/11/2015 11:16

Season’s Greetings and Happy New Year to all our clients

EPC - E

Dean Road, NW2

£1,150,000 Share of Freehold

A wonderful example of a 3 bedroom duplex conversion set

• 3 bedrooms, study & open plan living area

in the heart of Willesden Green covering an impressive 1400

• Bi-folding doors onto terrace

sq ft of luxury accommodation, refurbished to a very high

• Contemporary style kitchen

standard throughout. Viewing is highly recommended.

• Spacious south facing roof terrace

EPC - D

Hanover Road, NW10

£699,950 Leasehold

Immaculately presented split level apartment set on the first

• 2 double bedroom apartment

and attic floors of this converted house in a quiet tree lined

• Sunny reception room, kitchen/diner

road close to the highly popular busy Chamberlayne Road.

• Original features including fireplace & high ceilings

Early viewing is highly recommended.

• Potential for roof back extension (subject to planning)

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

EPC - D

THE AVENUE, NW6

£2,499,950 Freehold

Providing an impressive 3818 sq ft of living space, this fabulous semi-detached house offers 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 3 receptions, modern kitchen, 73 ft garden, off-street parking and sauna. Located in a prime position close to Brondesbury Park & Queens Park Overground/Bakerloo Line Stations (Zone 2). Must be seen!

• Substantial 5 bedroom house • 3 bathrooms, sauna • Large garden & off-street parking • Fabulous entertaining space

EPC - E

SUMMERFIELD AVENUE, NW6

£2,100,000 Freehold

Situated on one of Queens Park's premier roads is this stunning mid-terraced period style house offering 1651 sq ft of accommodation with 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 reception rooms, extended kitchen/diner opening onto a 40 ft rear garden & separate courtyard. Just moments away to the bustling Salusbury Road.

• Well presented, excellent position • Many period features • 1651 sq ft • 4 bedrooms/2 bathrooms

QUEENS PARK.indd 1

24/11/2015 14:30

Season’s Greetings and Happy New Year to all our clients

EPC - D

BURROWS ROAD, NW10

£1,725,000 Freehold

Beautifully presented 5 bedroom/2 bathroom fully extended mid-terraced house in Kensal Rise boasting double reception room, large kitchen/diner with bi-fold doors opening onto a 56 ft south facing garden, master bedroom with en-suite bathroom. Must be seen to be fully appreciated.

• Spanning over 1738 sq ft • 5 bedrooms/2 bathrooms • Kitchen extension • Close to Kensal Green Station

QUEENS PARK.indd 2

24/11/2015 14:30

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

EPC - D

KEMPE ROAD, NW6

£2,100,000 Freehold

Fully extended, charming period house just off Queens Park spanning over 1826 sq ft. Accommodation comprises of 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms & guest cloakroom, utility, 20 ft kitchen/diner & 60 ft south facing garden. Situated close to Chamberlayne Road with its numerous shops, restaurants & transport facilities.

• 4 bedrooms/2 bathrooms • Master bedroom with en-suite • Close to transport links • Excellent condition

EPC - D

HANOVER ROAD, NW10

£699,950 Leasehold

Immaculately presented 2 double bedroom/2 bathroom split level flat set on the first & attic of a converted house benefitting from modern kitchen/diner, sunny reception & plenty of storage space. Other features include fitted carpets, new double glazed windows, period features, potential for roof extension (STPP). Viewing recommended.

• Split level flat, 940 sq ft • 2 bedrooms/2 bathrooms • Period features • Close to Kensal Rise Station

QUEENS PARK.indd 3

24/11/2015 14:30

Season’s Greetings and Happy New Year to all our clients

EPC - E

HAZELMERE ROAD, NW6

£675 Per Week

A totally refurbished and extended 3 bedroom/2 bathroom garden flat, conveniently situated close to Queens Park & Kilburn. Accommodation includes open plan fully fitted kitchen/diner, 75 ft west facing garden with a newly built summer house/office, master bedroom with en-suite and own entrance. Available from January 2016.

• Available January 2016 • Offered furnished • Close to transport & amenities • Private rear garden

EPC - D

PLYMPTON AVENUE, NW6

£1,150 Per Week

Spacious 4 bedroom/2 bathroom family home available from January 2016. Providing 1978 sq ft of accommodation, this lovely house is arranged over 3 floors and comprises of double reception, large kitchen/breakfast room, 47 ft rear garden & cellar on LGF. Close to Kilburn Jubilee Line & Brondesbury Park Overground Stations (Zone 2).

• 4 bedrooms/2 bathrooms • Cellar on LGF • Available January 2016 • Must be viewed

QUEENS PARK.indd 4

24/11/2015 14:30

true associates ltd CHARTERED SURVEYORS

•

ESTATES AGENTS

Ponsard Road, NW10

•

PROJECT MANAGERS

£440,000

A newly refurbished flat on the ground floor of a period property in this increasingly popular location. The flat features a 25 ft open plan reception and kitchen, bathroom and double bedroom with access to a private decked garden. The property is located in the borough of Hammersmith and Fulham and is approximately 8 minutes walk from Kensal Green station and a short bus ride from Westfield Shepherds Bush.

True Associates Limited 32 Chamberlayne Road London NW10 3JE

TRUEASS.indd 1

T: 020 8960 3663 F: 020 8960 3883 E: info@trueassociates.co.uk W: www.trueassociates.co.uk

Find Us on Facebook & Twitter

25/11/2015 11:24

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

0207 099 4000 or email Abigail@portico.com

SALES

MAINTENANCE

LE T TINGS

portico.com

PORTICO_CORP.indd 1 Absolutely Magazine ad_AWK.indd 1

12:02 15/06/2015 11:46

NEW KINGS ROAD, FULHAM, SW6 ÂŁ850,000

KE Y FE AT URES Three Double Bedrooms Split-Level Very Well Proportioned Excellent Condition Balcony New Long Lease

PORTICO.indd 1

24/11/2015 09:47

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

portico.com

HOLL AND VILL AS ROAD, KENSINGTON , W14 ÂŁ895 P/ W

KE Y FE AT URES Four Double Bedrooms Off-Street Parking for Two Cars Private Patio Garden Eat-In Kitchen Ample Storage Throughout Close to The Amenities of High Street Kensington

PORTICO.indd 2

24/11/2015 09:47

BROOK GREEN 138 SHEPHERDS BUSH ROAD W6 7PB SHEPHERDS BUSH 113 ASKEW ROAD W12 9AS ACTON 27 CHURCHFIELD ROAD W3 6BD

www.finlaybrewer.co.uk

ROWAN ROAD W6 GUIDE £2.4M FREEHOLD • • • • •

4/5 BEDROOMS 2/3 RECEPTIONS KITCHEN BREAKFAST ROOM BATHROOM

BROOK GREEN 020 7371 4171

• SECLUDED WEST FACING GARDEN • EPC RATING F 25

LOCAL . INDEPENDENT . INVOLVED

FB.indd 1

23/11/2015 17:33

HAVILLAND MEWS W12 £1,300 PW / £5,633 PCM • • • • •

STUNNING MODERN TOWNHOUSE 5 DOUBLE BEDROOMS & 1 FURTHER SINGLE FINISHED TO THE HIGHEST STANDARD GOOD STORAGE THROUGHOUT 2 FLOORS OF LIVING SPACE

LETTINGS 020 7371 4071

• • • • •

2 EN-SUITES & 1 FAMILY BATHROOM GARDEN & ROOF TERRACE OFF STREET PARKING FOR 2 CARS WELL LOCATED FOR SHEPHERDS BUSH EPC RATING B 87

LOCAL . INDEPENDENT . INVOLVED

FB.indd 2

23/11/2015 17:33

Abso DPS due 23 Nov 2015_Kerr Westside Ad templates 23/11/2015 15:58 Page 1

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

sales@kerrandco.com

www.kerrandco.com Bloemfontein Road, W12 £1,300,000 FH A well presented and substantial mid terraced Victorian house arranged over three floors in this central location. The house currently offers six bedrooms (5 with en-suite shower rooms), 2 separate bathrooms, a reception room, kitchen/dining room, utility room and a 36’ west facing rear garden. The property is currently let out producing significant income.

Devonport Road, W12 £629,950 FH A semi-detached new build two double bedroom house laid out over four floors (providing 800 sq ft), this freehold building has been newly developed and refurbished to a high standard. The property has under floor heating throughout. The house is situated within a stone’s throw of Shepherd’s Bush Green and West London Westfield shopping complex.

✆ 020 8743 1166 KERRCO.indd 1

23/11/2015 17:17

www.kerrandco.com Stanlake Road, W12 £749,950 Share of FH A fantastic newly refurbished two double bedroom garden flat set within this impressive Victorian terraced building. The property provides a generous reception/kitchen room leading on to a secluded west facing rear garden, two double bedrooms (one en-suite) and a family bathroom. The property is presented in excellent condition throughout and is one not to miss.

Dunraven Road, W12 £779,950 Share of FH An extremely well presented purpose built two bedroom, two bathroom first and second floor Edwardian maisonette located on this quiet tree lined residential street. The property benefits from excellent living space by providing a bright and spacious reception room, an eat in large kitchen/dining room and a west facing roof terrace.

✆ 020 8743 1166 KERRCO.indd 2

23/11/2015 17:17

Hurlingham Terrace SW6 Prices from £1,899,950 - £2,850,000 A stunning NEW COLLECTION of just seven, THREE AND FOUR BEDROOM TOWNHOUSES, adjacent to the exclusive new members-only Parsons Green Sports & Leisure Club. With beautifully presented living accommodation over four floors and HIGHLY SPECIFIED INTERIORS throughout these impressive homes each enjoy their own PRIVATE TERRACE AND LAWN. Living/Dining | Study/Gym | Family Room | Private Garden | Master Bedroom with En-Suite Bathroom | Two/Three Further Bedrooms | Two/Three Further Bathrooms/Shower Rooms

P E R F E C T I O N I S O F T E N C L A I M E D . . . B U T R A R E LY A C H I E V E D

BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT TO VIEW THIS IMPRESSIVE NEW DEVELOPMENT TODAY

OFFICES THROUGHOUT SOUTH WEST LONDON

ASPIRE.indd 1

Balham 020 8673 6111

Battersea 020 7801 3400

Clapham High Street 020 7840 3700

Clapham South 020 8675 1222

Fulham Central 020 7381 7381

Fulham South 020 7736 6110

Furzedown/Tooting 020 8769 7900

Aspire Riverside 020 7801 3404

24/11/2015 15:28

Lost Consonants #smallthingsbigdifferences ÂŠ Graham Rawle

The property surveyor soon spotted the cause of the rising dam

Aspire. Recommendations you can trust. If you buy, sell or rent your property through Aspire you can benefit from our trusted and reliable bank of tradesmen and professionals for any repairs, maintenance or management you may need. No beavers guaranteed. Aspire.co.uk

ASPIRE.indd 1

02/11/2015 10:37

PROPERTY / NEW TO THE MARKET

VICTORIA STREET SW1

£POA

entral London development and design expert Alchemi Group has unveiled its eagerly awaited Platinum Collection show apartment at 55 Victoria Street, London SW1. Rising above the heart of Westminster, The Platinum Collection comprises 15 exclusive loft style residences. Combining a unique vision of New York-inspired urban living with a quintessentially British location and truly bespoke design, the result is a new standard in spacious and beautifully detailed homes. Each unique residence enjoys its own private balcony or impressive terrace.  55vs.co.uk Sales office 020 7499 3881 alchemigroup.com

4200 sq ft of accommodation with six bedrooms and five bathrooms. Seeing is believing! u  Camerons Stiff 020 8459 1133; cameronsstiff.co.uk

WILLESDEN LANE

WALLINGFORD AVENUE

£3.995m

£4m

NW2

Freehold

beautifully designed detached double A fronted period house restored to incorporate a traditional family space based on a New York style loft finished with exposed steels and poured concrete floors. The property oozes charm and opulence offering over

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

NH_Dec15_PP.indd 188

W10

e have recently sold a house on Wallingford Avenue, within the St Quintin Conservation Area, North Kensington for nearly £4m, by far and away a new price record for a Victorian terrace house in this location and this seems to fly in the face of the supposed negative

market sentiment expressed by many property commentators today. It is fair to say that larger houses in West London have faced significant challenges when trying to sell in this market but this transaction goes to show that if something is exceptional and of

the highest quality, buyers are still willing to pay for it. This is just an example of the many success stories we have in this challenging but exciting period for Prime London property. u  Bective Leslie Marsh Ladbroke Grove, 020 7221 0330 bective.co.uk

188 25/11/2015 17:13

lawsons & daughters

DE MORGAN ROAD, SW6 £1,300,000

PROPERTY FEATURES • 4 double bedrooms • 3 Bathrooms • Double reception room • Arranged over 3 floors • Private Garden • Freehold

TEL: 0208 563 0202 | 404-406 N ORTH E ND R OAD, F ULHAM , L ONDON SW6 1LU

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27/10/2015 12:02

Colville Terrace, W11 ÂŁ2,300,000 Share of Freehold

A fabulous opportunity to acquire a spacious garden maisonette (circa 1,655 square feet) in the heart of Notting Hill.The flat is located on the raised ground and lower ground floors of a handsome period building and offers characterful accommodation. Colville Terrace is located just a stone's throw from Westbourne Grove and Portobello Road. EPC=D. Reception room, dining area, three bedrooms, bathroom, cloakroom, open-plan kitchen, conservatory and garden. Sole Agents

020 7221 2277 ben@mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

Kensington 020 7937 9976 MOUNTGRANGE.indd 1

North Kensington 020 8960 0181

Notting Hill 020 7221 2277 23/11/2015 17:11

Lexham Gardens, W8 ÂŁ1,550,000 Share of Freehold

A truly sophisticated first floor balcony flat which has been beautifully refurbished to a meticulous standard throughout.The apartment is approximately 915 sq ft and offers a spacious and elegant reception room with gas fireplace and a designated dining area leading to a portico balcony.The property benefits from being close to Kensington High Street and Earls Court. EPC=D. Reception room, bedroom, shower room, study area, kitchen and portico balcony. Sole Agents

020 7937 9976 chloe@mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

Kensington 020 7937 9976 MOUNTGRANGE.indd 2

North Kensington 020 8960 0181

Notting Hill 020 7221 2277 23/11/2015 17:11

South Edwardes Square, W8 £2,500 per week Fees Apply

A beautiful family home situated on one of the most desirable garden squares in Kensington. Refurbished to a high standard the property is arranged over three floors with fabulous views over the beautiful Edwardes Square communal gardens. EPC=E.Two reception rooms, four bedrooms, three bathrooms, eat-in kitchen, private south-facing garden and access to communal gardens. Unfurnished. Sole Agents

020 7221 2277 neha@mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

Ivory Place, W11 £1,495 per week Fees Apply

Pembridge Villas, W11 £675 per week Fees Apply

020 7221 2277 petra@mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

020 7221 2277 abigail@mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

Stunning house in this gated private development in Notting Hill. Architect designed to provide superb open-plan entertaining space with excellent storage and secluded west-facing patio garden. Located within a short walk of Latimer Road Underground Station. EPC=B. Reception, four bedrooms, three bathrooms, open-plan kitchen and garden. Unfurnished.

Simply stunning contemporary living space, benefiting from a spacious reception room and beautiful secluded garden.The property is located in the heart of Notting Hill just moments from the shops and restaurants on Westbourne Grove and Portobello Road. EPC=D. Reception, bedroom, bathroom, kitchen and garden. Furnished. Sole Agents

mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

Kensington 020 7937 9976 MOUNTGRANGE.indd 3

North Kensington 020 8960 0181

Notting Hill 020 7221 2277 23/11/2015 17:11

Artesian Road, W2 £2,450 per week Fees Apply

This substantial terraced house combines early Victorian elegance with excellent modern living spaces.The property has been beautifully designed and the dining room leads directly out onto a sunny south-facing patio garden while the elegant ground floor drawing room offers onto a roof terrace which overlooks the garden below. EPC=D.Three reception rooms, five bedrooms, three bathrooms, study, kitchen, garden, roof terrace and off-street parking. Unfurnished.

020 7221 2277 petra@mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

Royal Crescent, W11 £575 per week Fees Apply

Strathmore Gardens, W8 £775 per week Fees Apply

020 7221 2277 abigail@mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

020 7221 2277 neha@mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

Fabulous garden flat with high ceilings and period features benefiting from a large reception room and stunning garden. The property benefits from excellent storage and a further reception room which would make a perfect study or occasional guest room. EPC=D.Two reception rooms, bedroom, bathroom, modern kitchen and garden. Unfurnished.

A beautifully presented two bedroom property that has been refurbished to the highest standard. Exceptionally bright, the south-facing and open-plan kitchen/living room features floor-to-ceiling windows and slate tiles with underfloor heating. EPC=D. Reception room, two bedrooms, bathroom and kitchen. Furnished.

mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

Kensington 020 7937 9976 MOUNTGRANGE.indd 4

North Kensington 020 8960 0181

Notting Hill 020 7221 2277 23/11/2015 17:11

020 7381 4998 • 190 Fulham Palace Road London W6 9PA sales@lockettestates.co.uk • lettings@lockettestates.co.uk • www.lockettestates.co.uk

TASSO ROAD, W6, Three double bedroom, two bathroom house with potential to extend. The property has been improved to include new bathrooms and double glazing, but would benefit from updating. EPC: D DOUBLE RECEPTION ROOM, KITCHEN, THREE DOUBLE BEDROOMS, TWO BATHROOMS, GARDEN

1175000

Larnach Road, W6, Spacious extended house in a very convenient location for Hammersmith and Barons Court underground stations as well as local amenities and Thames Path. EPC: TBA Four Double Bedrooms, Double Reception Room, Fitted Kitchen With Dining Area, Study, Family Bathroom, Shower Room, Garden

750 pw

LOCKETTS.indd 1

12/11/2015 16:48

Riverside living at its best

Flats to rent at Fulham Reach starting at £475 per week

1 Beds from £525 pw

n Pool, Gym, 24hr Concierge, Air-conditioning n 3 minute walk to Hammersmith Tube (District, Piccadilly, Circle, Hammersmith & City Lines) 2 Beds from £750 pw

Additional charges apply: Tenancy Agreement, Credit Check & Inventory Report. For details visit www.brlets.co.uk/tenantinfo

BR CORP.indd 1

On-site letttings office at Fulham Reach

25/11/2015 11:01

Imperial Wharf

£1,400 pw Furn/Unfurnished

• NEW_B&R_DEC_15.indd 2

12/11/2015 12:16

To arrange a viewing or for more information call

020 7319 9783

Notting Hill Borders

£500 pw Furnished

London’s Letting Agency

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

Fulham Reach

£800 pw Furnished

Kensington

Knightsbridge

£850 pw Furn/Unfurnished

£1,100 pw Unfurnished

Dubai | Hong Kong | India | Malaysia | Singapore

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West Kensington

ÂŁ1,100 pw Furnished

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London’s Letting Agency

To arrange a viewing or for more information call

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

020 7319 9783

Imperial Wharf

£500 pw Furnished

Chelsea

£525 pw Furnished

1 Bedroom | Reception | 1 Bathroom Close To Amenities & Tube | EPC - F | Joint Sole Agents Knightsbridge 020 3302 7174 knight@brlets.co.uk

Marylebone

Hammersmith

£675 pw Furnished

£750 pw Furnished

Dubai | Hong Kong | India | Malaysia | Singapore

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Kensington’s new quarter n Situated in one of the most desirable locations in London n 24hr concierge, secure parking, gym, pool, spa, private screening room, business suite

375 Kensington High Street, W14

n 5 Minute walk to Tube & Underground stations

Apartments to rent from £600 per week 1 Beds (avg 520 sq ft) from £600 per week

2 Beds (avg 950 sq ft) from £950 per week

Deluxe residents leisure suite

Call us now on 020

Additional charges apply: Tenancy Agreement, Credit Check & Inventory Report. For details visit www.brlets.co.uk/tenantinfo

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PROPERTY / PRICE COMPARISON £

NIGEL LEWIS

PRICE BANDS

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

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

ondon has many joys to offset the pain of solid traffic, sooty underground trains and expensive pubs. And one of them is the extraordinary range of homes available to buy. One example is the apartment that comes with access to a communal garden. The idea is, if you’re getting oppressed by the four walls around you, just pop upstairs for a spot of sun bathing or an afterwork drink with the neighbours. Or, simply survey the local rooftops, cast your eyes over London’s breath-taking vistas, and generally thank your lucky stars you’ve got access to such an incredible space.

The apotheosis of this at the moment is the Battersea Power Station development which is to include three themed roof gardens developed by international landscape designer and gardener Andy Sturgeon. He comes well recommended, including three Chelsea Flower Show gold medals to his name. Prices for apartment within the old power station start at £800,000 for a studio and rise to £2.7m for a three bedroom apartment. London currently has 250 or so apartments for sale with communal roof gardens, most of them bunched within inner London. So, what can you get for your money?

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

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

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

£ 500,000 TO £ 1MILLION he most properties in this price bracket can be found between £650,000 and £750,000. They are most concentrated along both sides of the Thames in the many new blocks that line it, as well as new builds in super fashionable Clerkenwell and to the north of City in places like Whitechapel. There are plenty of examples elsewhere, though. This includes Paddington Exchange, a development that’s organised around communal roof terraces and where prices start at £995,000 for a one bedroom apartment. A similar development called Westminster Quarter also offers apartment owners access to a stunning rooftop terrace overlooking central London. One bedroom units start at £959,000.

£ 1M

PLUS

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

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

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ABOVE

DECEMBER 2015

25/11/2015 15:05

FIRST STREET, SW3 A modernised period corner house with consent to enlarge the accommodation further. At present it is a well arranged house with a rear terrace and an integral garage. Approx. 1,986 sq ft. Energy Rating: D. 3 bedrooms, bathroom, en suite shower room, drawing room, family kitchen/dining room, utility room, cloakroom, integral garage with store room below. Freehold Guide Price ÂŁ3,600,000

CHARLES II PLACE, SW3 An attractive terrace house situated in a secure gated development opposite Markham Square, with the benefit of a resident porter. Approx. 1,883 sq ft. Energy Rating: C. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en suite), drawing room, family room/dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, cloakroom, integral garage. Freehold Guide Price ÂŁ2,950,000

CHELSEA 020 7887 2311 chelsea@johndwood.co.uk

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PHILLIMORE GARDENS, W8 A handsome, wide and semi-detached family house with off-street parking for two cars. The house retains all of its original grandeur, including the spectacular staircase and reception rooms. Approx. 4,780 sq ft. Energy Rating: D. 6 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms (3 en suite), reception room, kitchen/dining room, 2 cloakrooms, utility room, store room, front and rear gardens, off-street parking. Freehold

KENSINGTON 020 3151 6269 kensington@johndwood.co.uk

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BARTLE ROAD, W11

BASSETT ROAD, W10

An immaculately renovated apartment, with contemporary decor laid out over three floors with views over communal gardens of Wesley Square to the rear. Approx. 1,140 sq ft. Energy Rating: D.

A beautiful flat situated in a double-fronted villa on one of the most prestigious roads in W10. Approx. 732 sq ft. Energy Rating: D.

3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, kitchen/reception, parking, balcony.

2 bedrooms, bathroom, reception, kitchen/dining room, patio garden.

Freehold Share Guide Price £920,000

Lease to 2086 Guide Price £849,950

PORTOBELLO ROAD, W11

LANCASTER ROAD, W11

A one bedroom flat on the 1st floor of this period building with the potential to be transformed into a two bedroom flat with a kitchen/reception (STPP). Approx: 550 sq ft. Energy Rating: E.

A contemporary 2nd floor apartment with a beautiful outlook, spacious reception, close to the amenities of Ladbroke Grove and Portobello Road. Approx. 547 sq ft. Energy Rating: C.

Bedroom, shower room, reception room, RBK&C parking permit.

Bedroom, bathroom, open-plan reception room/kitchen.

Lease to 2178 Guide Price £695,000

Lease to 2997 Guide Price £675,000

NOTTING HILL 020 3151 6283 nottinghill@johndwood.co.uk

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BRAMHAM GARDENS, SW5 Located on the 3rd floor of this red brick mid-terraced property, a beautifully presented flat with fantastic southerly views over the communal gardens (to which residents have access) from the elegant reception room. Approx. 1,095 sq ft. Energy Rating: D. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en suite), reception room, utility room, access to communal gardens. Freehold Share Guide Price £1,850,000

ROSARY GARDENS, SW7 A charming, well proportioned, garden floor apartment which is situated at the preferred eastern terrace of this popular address. It benefits from well thought out accommodation and would make the ideal home, rental investment or pied-à-terre. Approx. 825 sq ft. Energy Rating: D. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en suite), reception room, study, utility room, patio/terrace. Freehold Share Guide Price £1,199,950

SOUTH KENSINGTON 020 3151 6327 southken@johndwood.co.uk

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PROPERTY / NEW TO THE MARKET

Luxurious

LETTINGS LONDON’S FINEST ASSETS

KENSINGTON PARK ROAD W11

£5,417

Per Month

truly stunning and exceptional two A bedroom apartment finished to the highest of specifications with a private garden and located in the very heart of Notting Hill. u l KFH Holland Park, 020 3792 4519; kfh.co.uk

PORTOBELLO ROAD W10

£850

PerWeek

his stunning ground floor maisonette T boasts a funky urban style interior. All elements of detailing, including the hand-finished kitchen, exterior living walls and beautiful copper radiators, have been designed and manufactured by Cubic Studios to give a completely unique and inimitable home. The property is in the heart of this vibrant area within easy reach of some of the best shops, resturants and bars in the area, in addition to the world famous Portobello Road market. Ladbroke Grove Underground Station is within close proximity on the Circle and Hammersmith & City lines.2 bedrooms, 2 en suite

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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shower rooms, reception room, kitchen, cloakroom, terrace. u l Bective Leslie Marsh, Ladbroke Grove, 020 7221 5388; bective.co.uk

GREEN STREET W1

£2,000

Per Week

his stylish two bedroom duplex T apartment is situated in a period building on Green Street in the heart of Mayfair. Set over the ground and lower ground floors, the apartment comprises a sizeable reception room featuring a wall-mounted 60 inch TV, built-in storage compartments, dining space and large sash windows affording lots of natural light. There’s a fully

fitted modern kitchen with white glossy cabinets, Miele appliances and breakfast bar; master bedroom with walkin wardrobe, skirting lights and en-suite bathroom with separate shower cubicle; and a second double bedroom with storage space, en-suite

triple shower room and direct access to a private patio. Other benefits include a large hallway area, guest cloakroom and underfloor heating. u l Benham & Reeves Residential Lettings Hyde Park, 020 7402 9866; brlets.co.uk

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Established 1897

SMITH STREET, Chelsea SW3 A truly exceptional Victorian five bedroom terraced house (approximately 3,722sq ft/ 345.8sq m) located on Smith Street in the heart of Chelsea. The property has been modernised to a high standard and boasts a beautifully presented 85ft west-facing garden. Benefitting from an abundance of light and sympathetic and effective use of the space, the family home is provided with all the modern innovations expected from a property of this quality. The accommodation includes a double reception room, large kitchen, family room, cinema, gym and sauna, study, five bedrooms, wine cellar, Japanese garden and a separate garden room. Offered with no onward chain, the house is located moments from the many shops and restaurants that the Kings Road has to offer. EPC rating C. Freehold Guide price: ÂŁ7,950,000 020 7225 5911 mark.greenway@harrodsestates.com

KNIGHTSBRIDGE OFFICE: 82 BROMPTON ROAD LONDON SW3 1ER T: 020 7225 6506 MAYFAIR OFFICE: 61 PARK LANE LONDON W1K 1QF T: 020 7409 9001 CHELSEA OFFICE: 58 FULHAM ROAD LONDON SW3 6HH T: 020 7225 6700 KENSINGTON OFFICE: 48-50 KENSINGTON CHURCH STREET LONDON W8 4DG T: 020 3650 4600

HARRODSESTATES.COM @HarrodsEstates

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Established 1897

WOLFE HOUSE, Kensington W14 A one double bedroom apartment located on the 6th floor (with lift) of this in-demand High Street Kensington development. The apartment comprises one bedroom, open plan kitchen and reception room and a modern bathroom suite with Aquavision TV and sound system. The apartment benefits from underfloor heating, comfort cooling and 24-hour concierge service supplied by Harrods Estates. Residents of 375 Kensington High Street also have access to a swimming pool, fully equipped gym, sauna, spa and private cinema. EPC rating B. Price: £695 per week plus property fees* (£180 admin & £162 checkout). References: £42 per person *www.harrodsestates.com/tenants 020 3650 4604 sam.wright@harrodsestates.com

HARRODSESTATES.COM @HarrodsEstates

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Established 1897

ADDISLAND COURT, Kensington W14 A truly unique three bedroom lateral apartment (approximately 1,425sq ft /132.38sq m) presented in an immaculate order throughout, located in the heart of Holland Park. The property has a perfect mixture of both contemporary and traditional décor and retains many original features, including working gas fireplaces.The accommodation is well proportioned and comprises a large reception room with three west-facing double windows, two double bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, one further bedroom, an eat-in kitchen and two balconies. Addisland Court is a portered block situated close to the shops, cafés, restaurants and excellent transport links that Holland Park Avenue and the surrounding area have to offer. EPC rating E. Leasehold: approximately 979 years remaining Guide price: £2,500,000 020 3650 4600 nicholas.shaw@harrodsestates.com

HARRODSESTATES.COM @HarrodsEstates

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Established 1897

CLAREVILLE STREET, South Kensington SW7 A beautifully finished four bedroom house which has been completely rebuilt behind the original period façade creating a stunning contemporary home. The accommodation includes a reception room, bright open-plan kitchen / dining / drawing room, four double bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, a patio garden and an integral garage. Benefitting from the latest in home comforts and technology, the house also provides underfloor heating and air-conditioning. Clareville Street is conveniently located for the shops, restaurants and transport links of South Kensington and Gloucester Road. EPC rating B. Price: £4,950 per week plus property fees* (£180 admin & £175 checkout). References: £42 per person *www.harrodsestates.com/tenants 020 7225 5881 tobias.king@harrodsestates.com

HARRODSESTATES.COM @HarrodsEstates

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Established 1897

SEASON’S GREETINGS FROM HARRODS ESTATES

HARRODSESTATES.COM

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TPC Absolutely Oct 15_Westside Back Cover 22/10/2015 17:43 Page 1

THE PARK CLUB feel the difference...

GYM AWARDS 2014 WINNER OF

BEST FOR FAMILIES

Call 020 8740 4599 or visit theparkclub.co.uk The Park Club East Acton Lane West London W3 7HB

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