NOTTING HILL DECEMBER 2013

ABSOLUTELY DECEMBER 2013 £3.95

NOT TING HILL

FEEL YOUR PRESENTS

Glorious gifts all round

BREAKFAST WITH LUCIAN

Behind the scenes with Geordie Greig

RECORD COLLECTOR

Annie Mac’s musical canon

STARRY EYES

Richard Young’s Christmas celebrities

Fairytale

FESTIVE FASHION FANTASIES

Christmas

S T Y L I S H . I N T E L L I G E N T. E L E G A N T. A B S O L U T E LY COVERS DEC.indd 1

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facebook.com/struttandparker twitter.com/struttandparker

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Pembridge Place, London W11

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Asking price £10,950,000 Freehold

“On the market for the first time in over 30 years, this is a fine period house with grand proportions in a highly sought after tree lined address.”

An outstanding and beautifully presented, end of terrace, five bedroom family house with a wonderful 75 ft west facing garden.

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3,673 sq ft (341.2 sq m) Entrance hall | Drawing room | Dining room | Kitchen/breakfast room | Study | Master bedroom with en suite dressing room and bathroom | Four further bedrooms | Two further bathrooms | Utility room | Pantry | Two cloakrooms | Cellar | Garden | EPC rating: E Notting Hill 020 7221 1111 nottinghill@struttandparker.com

20/11/2013 10:01

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LANDLORDS IN LONDON CHOOSE TO RENT THEIR PROPERTIES WITH US

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‘PROFESSIONAL’ was the word most frequently used to describe our service in recent feedback. ‘Friendly’, ‘knowledgeable’ and ‘helpful’ were other words that came up time and time again

20/11/2013 17:28

Make sure you’re seen Media planners and advertisers need reassurance too.

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Ask to see our ABC Certificate. See it, believe it, trust it.

If you want to reach 37,5371 residential addresses, total average net circulation, then call our team on 020 7704 0588 or email advertising@zest-media.com 1. Circulation figure relates to period from 30/09/13 to 27/10/13

For more information visit www.abc.org.uk or email info@abc.org.uk

ABSOLUTELY NOTTING HILL & KENSINGTON

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ABSOLUTELY December 2013

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EDITOR’S LETTER

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ABSOLUTELY LOVES Absolutely’s top ten this month

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PROFILE DJ and radio voice Annie Mac

CULTURE 13

WHAT’S ON December’s diary

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PRET A PHOTO Christmas with Richard Young

STYLE 33

FASHION NOTES Sartorial stories

38

FASHION SHOOT A fairytale Christmas

INTERIORS 57

THE LOOK Bauble bauble

58

THE MINT LIST Style tips from Camilla Kelly

FOOD & TRAVEL 85

GOURMET GIFTS The best foodie presents

90

A UK GETAWAY Barsham Barns, Norfolk

PROPERTY 106 IN THEIR OWN WORDS 122 PROPERTY NEWS

Photography: SQUIZ HAMILTON

ON THE COVER

CONTENTSDEC.indd 7

IMAGE COURTESY OF YARDLEY LONDON

22/11/2013 17:50

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES EDITOR Pendle Harte EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Catherine Hales EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Lindsay Baker, Pearl Boyd, Emma Harpin CONTRIBUTING BEAUTY EDITOR Arabella Preston SENIOR ADVERTISING ACCOUNT MANAGER Rochelle Streater GROUP PROPERTY DIRECTOR Alexandra Hunter CENTRAL PROPERTY MANAGER Anna Hutton-Potts ART DIRECTOR Ray Searle PRODUCTION MANAGER Stewart Hyde PRODUCTION DESIGNERS Gemma Isteed, Tahir Kapucu SENIOR DESIGNER Pawel Kuba DESIGNERS Andrew Mavin, Ekrem Yilmaz JUNIOR DESIGNER Rebecca Noonan COPY CONTROLLER Christine Mann FINANCE DIRECTOR Alexandra Hvid DIRECTOR Greg Hughes 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 clarissa@zest-media.com You can receive an online subscription for FREE or a postal subscriptions for 12 months, £30 respectively (to cover postage and packaging). Please email us with your preferred option and details.

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

We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved.

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Editor’s Letter

T

he next thing on everybody’s list is the tree. When to put it up? Keenly at the first whiff of Advent along with the inflatable rooftop santa, or more discreetly towards the end of the month when mince pies are no longer a novelty? How big should it be? A grand eight-footer filling the entire bay window or smaller and less self-assured? And then there’s the question of decorating it. Tastefully with wooden novelties and white lights or garishly with whatever you can throw together? When it comes to buying the actual tree, there are lots of local options. Portobello market is always a good choice, or there’s the Christmas Forest (outside St John’s Church on Harrow Road) with its sustainable tree-planting policy. Personally, I’m going for the mid-range on most of these options and will definitely be shopping locally

for tree accessories such as biscuit baubles from Biscuiteers and lovely decorations from Pedlars. Most pages in this issue are dedicated to festive ideas, from advent calendars and baubles to gifts for everyone, and we’ve even got a special Christmas quiz too.

A happy Christmas to all our readers.

Pendle Harte Editor

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

22/11/2013 17:49

T h i n g s We A b s o l u t e l y

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BAUBLE BAUBLE The signature swirly stripe makes this absolutely the finest bauble of the season.

Hand-painted glass, £29, paulsmith.co.uk

POT HEADS Milan-based British designer George Sowden has launched a range of super stylish tea and coffee pots that work with a clever microfilter technology.

They're stocked at Kensington Park Road's Couverture and the Garbstore, from £65.

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LILAC PATH Just launched

by Aerin Lauder, American style icon and granddaughter of Estee, is a range of luxuriously floral fragrances in beautiful bottles. We’re swooning over Lilac Path, which captures the fresh lilac scent intensely. £85 for 50ml at Harrods or esteelauder.co.uk/aerin

CASE STUDY Phone accessories are bigger than ever this year. But forget the geeky ones – we're loving this hand-crafted leather iPhone case that's set to age far better than your phone ever will. £39.95, breffo.com

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POSTIE POOCH Everyone loves a dachsund. Especially one that promises to organise your post. We are coveting this letter holder from Anthropologie (£28) – especially now that the store is in residence at Westfield until Christmas. anthropologie.eu

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TEN GREEN BOTTLES Alice Temperley and Gordon's are the ultimate London combo.

So it makes perfect sense that La Temperley has reinvented the iconic gin label to infuse it with fashion. £14.99 for 70cl.

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CLOTH SHOP We love Donna Wilson's Welsh-style textiles as throws and upholstery – and now there's the Nos Da shopper too. A handy size with leather handles, it's just the thing. £180, scp.co.uk

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ON THE RAZZ Kensal Rise-based Virginia Rowe's Kingdom of Razz is a concept store selling 'artefacts from another dimension' such as these bizarre but loveable handcrafted art dolls, £169. kingdomofrazz.com

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GRAPES OF WREATH Ledbury Road's Melt is full of Christmas spirit with its range of chocolate baubles and gifts – we adore the fabulously festive chocolate wreath, £30. meltchocolates.com

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WHAT A MUG Skandium has launched its ownbrand range of mugs with illustrations by eminent Swedish artist Stig Lindberg. £12, skandium.com

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ABSOLUTELY | A RTS & CULTUR E

DI ARY D E C E M B E R

Singin’ in the Rain Gate Picturehouse 1 December

Gene Kelly suffered through filming of the iconic title number with a temperature of a hundred and three so the least we can do is appreciate his efforts. The classic musical about Hollywood’s transition from silent cinema to 'talkies' showcases the effervescent talents of Gene Kelly, Debbie Reynolds and Donald O’Connor and has remained a firm favourite due to its fabulous songs and innovative dance numbers – not to mention Cyd Charisse’s legs.

87 Notting Hill Gate, W11, 0871 902 5731; picturehouses.co.uk

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DIA RY D E C E M B E R

Hedgehog’s Home - The Musical The Tabernacle 15 December

A simple tale about a courageous little hedgehog named Hedgemond the Hunter and his daily quest to ensure the safety and comfort of his beloved house. Many of his neighbours can’t understand what the big deal is, is home a place to be cherished or taken for granted? This production, featuring a live three piece orchestra and animation will be at the Tabernacle for two performances before departing on a tour of schools.

34-35 Powis Square, W11, 020 7221 9700; tabernaclew11.com

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POP UP SCREENS CHRISTMAS IN THE SNOW 20th Century Theatre 13 - 20 December This December the 20th Century Theatre will be transformed into a Christmas grotto complete with all the trimmings, including heaps of snow and an entrance concealed by a wardrobe door. Screenings of classic festive films accompanied by decadent hot chocolate and mulled wine will be held three times per day with some absolute Christmas crackers coming up on the roster such as Elf, Miracle on 34th Street and The Nightmare Before Christmas.

291 Westbourne Grove, W11, 020 7229 4179; popupscreens.co.uk

Calligraphy Workshop Idler Academy 1 December

Taught by former calligrapher-in-residence at the V&A Cherrell Avery, this course comes just in time for greeting card season. Pupils will be taught how to create patterns with calligraphy that can be used for wrapping paper followed by creating designs for greetings cards as well as a demonstration of calligraphic Christmas decoration.

81 Westbourne Park Road, W2, 020 7221 5908; idler.co.uk

Winter Wonderland

Hyde Park 22 November – 5 January Sleigh bells ring, are you listening? In the lane, snow is glistening… Well, perhaps not quite yet but regardless of this Winter Wonderland is indeed back in residence. Ice-skating, circus tents, fairground rides, Santa Land, Christmas markets and, of course, lashings of mulled wine – what more could you want? hydeparkwinterwonderland.com

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ABSOLUTELY | A RTS & CULTUR E

Jake and Dinos Chapman: Come and See Serpentine Sackler Throughout December

Christmas Eerie Evening Tour

Jake and Dinos Chapman rose to prominence in the early 90s with their recreation of Goya’s ‘Disasters of War’ in miniature model form.

This exhibition will display works including ‘Hell’ and ‘The Sum of All Evil’ both of which showcase the pair’s painstaking thoroughness and exaggerated depictions of violence.

Kensington Gardens, W2, 020 7402 6075; serpentinegalleries.org

Kensington Palace 13 December

Inject an element of the macabre into your Christmas with a tour of Kensington Palace and discover 300 years of passions, tragedies and secrets experienced by the palaces past Royal residents. Visitors will be led through the shadowy state apartments hearing accounts of the heartbreak of Kings and Queens and gruesome tales of medical disasters - everything needed for a truly ghoulish evening.

Kensington Gardens, W8, 0844 482 7777; hrp.org.uk

Solo Show by Lisa Stockham Flow Gallery Throughout December

Lisa Stockham’s works examine the use of pattern, decoration and textile imagery across a variety of mediums. The floral ceramics in particular juxtapose erosion and beauty with the flowers adorning representing a state of desiccation instead of signifying vitality and fertility.

1-5 Needham Road, W11, 020 7243 0782; flowgallery.co.uk

MASTERPIECES OF CHINESE PAINTING 700-1900 V&A Throughout Dec Drawn from collections around the world this exhibition seeks to unite over 70 of the finest examples of Chinese painting in existence and provide an incredibly rare glimpse into its rich history. From small-scale works by monks and other learned people to a 14 metre-long scroll the display will unite works that have never before been displayed together and makes for fascinating viewing especially for those interested in Eastern culture.

Cromwell Road, SW7, 020 7942 2000; vam.ac.uk

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DESIGNSALE starts 13th December Enjoy great savings on living, dining and bedroom furniture.

Also, remember to visit our professional design consultants in store and ask about our free interior design service.

BoConcept Notting Hill, 18-24 Westbourne Grove London W2 5RH 020 7792 4111

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ABSOLUTELY | A RTS & CULTUR E

agenda THIS MONTH'S HIGHLIGHTS

Notting Hill past

MR SMITH An exhibition dedicated to the life and work of Paul Smith has just opened at the Design Museum. Focusing on the man and the brand’s journey from Nottingham to the world, the show includes a recreation of the first Paul Smith shop (3m x 3m) as well as of his current personal office. Of course, the iconic Notting Hill store features too.

The exhibition continues until March 2014.

Designmuseum.org

Jane and Serge in W2

Just published by Taschen is Jane and Serge: a Family Album, featuring photographs of the endlessly beautiful Jane Birkin and Serge Gainsbourg by her photographer brother Andrew Birkin. They are widely known for their Chelsea years, but we like this picture of the couple in Kensington Gardens Square, W2.

Taschen, £34.99

Silent night t

don'

PICTURE THIS

A new biography of Madeline St John, the first Australian woman to be shortlisted for the Booker Prize, is set largely in the Notting Hill of the 1970s and 1980s. Author Trinca says: 'When Madeleine arrived, in the early 1980s, Notting Hill was still edgy.

Prostitutes used the porch at All Saints as their pick-up point, while their pimps took over the nearby phone box as an office.

She relished the bohemian feel. With her roll-your-own cigarettes and her wild hair she merged happily into the scene.'

The book is a fascinating portrait of a fiercely talented woman.

Madeleine: A Life of Madeleine St John by Helen Trinca, Text Publishing, £12.99 paperback

S MIS

Illustrators Trisha Krauss and Bruce Ingram are holding an exhibition of their work at Great Western Studios this month, kicking off with an interactive event that encourages children to create their own storyboards.

The exhibition will explore the relationships between illustrator, writer and publisher, also looking at the story behind characters and giving an insight into the processes of creating an illustrated children’s story book.

6-18 December, Great Western Studios, 65 Alfred Road W2 greatwesternstudios.com

Hollywood glamour comes to the Albert Hall for New Year’s Eve, when a special screening of The Artist is accompanied by a live score from the London Symphony Orchestra. There’s no official dress code but anyone so inclined is encouraged to dress up Hollywood glamour-style for the occasion. So it's ballgowns at the ready for this exclusive UK premiere that will see Ernst Van Tiel conducting the orchestra along to a high-definition screening of the film.

Tickets are priced from £25-£65 at royalalberthall.com

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NU - LINE

BATHROOMS .COM

Nu-Line Bathroom Showroom at: Unit 12-14 Malton Road London W10 5UP

T: 020 8206 5177 F: 020 8206 5188 E: sales@nulinebathrooms.com www.nulinebathrooms.com

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ABSOLUTELY | CULTUR E

Shooting Stars ABSOLUTELY HAS A TASTE OF RICHARD YOUNG’S STARSTUDDED CHRISTMAS SHOW, PRET A PHOTO

O

ver 40 years in the trade, Richard Young has photographed everybody from Elizabeth Taylor to Nelson Mandela, from the Dalai Lama to Madonna. Like a real life Forrest Gump, Young was there to take the last picture of Keith Moon before he died; he has been to Romanian orphanages with Michael Jackson; he has shot Fidel Castro and the Queen as well as Amy Winehouse and Kate Moss. He was at every party you’ve ever heard of, as well as the ones you haven’t, shooting everyone you can think of as well as many you can’t. Young is the original paparazzo, the celebrity photographer who made his name by making friends with his subjects and keeping their secrets – and his vast archive of over two million images continues to reveal surprising, neverseen-before pictures.

Now a Christmas exhibition at Young’s Kensington gallery offers a selection of iconic prints for sale, all of them signed, stamped and numbered and available to take away on the day.

Celebrity portraits in the show include Johnny Depp, Serge Gainsbourg, Bob Marley, Jack Nicholson, Marvin Gaye, Muhammed Ali and Tina Turner, among countless others, and prices range from £75 to £5,000.

Pret a Photo continues until 31 January; the gallery will be closed from 23 December to 6 January.

Richard Young Gallery 4 Holland Street, W8 020 7937 8911 richardyounggallery.co.uk

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T

he iconic Beach Blanket Babylon, BBB as it is affectionately known locally, has been an institution since its inception in 1990. Famous for its delicious cocktails, al fresco dining and opulent parties, BBB epitomises the very best of cool Britannia in an environment of unadulterated decadence.

The magnificent Ballroom, Notting Hill’s best kept secret, is the ideal space for exclusive parties and private dining.

Glamourously opulent and decorated in

bookings@beachblanket.co.uk

Beach Blanket BB.3.indd 1 Babylon.indd 1



French Baroque style, the Ballroom can host seated dinner parties for up to 70 guests and champagne and cocktail canapé receptions for up to 150 people.

Christmas at BBB is a magical time and will be open throughout December for lunch and dinner, featuring a delicious festive-inspired menu.

With special menus and the newlycreated Ballroom Banqueting menu now available be sure to book your party for Christmas well in advance.

020 7229 2907



www.beachblanket.co.uk



On November 22nd, BBB will be hosting a neighbourhood Christmas party with mulled wine, cocktails and canapés to start the festive season to RSVP to this please email kim@beachblanket.co.uk

45 Ledbury Road, Notting Hill, W11 2AA

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ABSOLUTELY | PA RTIES

ALEXANDRA NELKE, DAVID WHITE AND LAURA BALDRY

Absolutely

SOCIAL Reporting from all the best parties in our area

NADIA VASSILEVA

ANTONY RETTIE

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ABSOLUTELY Thank you to Beach Blanket Babylon for hosting our fabulous second birthday party, and to Firestarter for their fantastic vodka (it comes disguised as a fire extinguisher.

Try it - it's available at thedrinkshop.com) as well as to everyone who contributed to our goodie bags and to everyone who came!

Photographs by Rebecca Noonan

PETER RICKENBERG, NICOLA REFSON ADNAN TIPU AND ANDREW WHELAN

TIM MCPHERSON

CHARLOTTE PEARL AND TANIA ARTHUR

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WELCOME TO THE GAUTIER UNIVERSE

37-41 Westbourne Grove, LONDON W2 4UA Tel. 020 7221 2393 Monday to Friday : 10am - 6pm Thursday : 11am - 7pm - Saturday : 10am - 7pm - Sunday : 12pm - 5pm D U B A I

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ABSOLUTELY | CULTURE

Show time The Christmas show is a fixture on the family calendar.

Absolutely picks five the best

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Sam Mendes’ lavish production might be short on memorable tunes but makes up for it in breathtaking visual effects. Starting with a single bean, the show wows us with its sparkling technique and glorious technicolour looks, with Dahl’s larger-than-life characters brilliantly portrayed in all their grotesque glory.

The Oompa Loompas are a triumph and the television screeninside-a-stage feature is an ingenius device.

Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, WC2B 5JF; 0844 858 8877 CharlieandtheChocolateFactory.com

The Nutcracker

The Lion King Now in its 15th year, Disney’s The Lion King has won over 70 theatre awards world-wide and is still going strong.

This captivating stage production follows the adventures of the young lion cub Simba, as he struggles to accept the responsibilities of adulthood and his destined role of King.

Lyceum Theatre 21 Wellington Street, WC2E 7RQ 0844 871 3000 thelionking.co.uk

It’s a rite of passage for little girls to dress up and go and see a matinee of the Nutcracker.

This year, we’re looking forward to the English National Ballet’s 12th production of Tchaikovsky’s Christmas favourite at the Coliseum, a classical production set in Edwardian London.

Prepare to be enthralled by the Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy and the Waltz of the Flowers.

London Coliseum 11 December – 5 January 2014 Box office: 020 7845 9300

Matilda Over one million people have seen Tim Minchin’s marvellous musical since it opened in 2010 and it scooped a record-breaking seven awards at the 2012 Laurence Olivier awards. For this Christmas season, set designer Rob Howell has teamed up with Liberty to create a Matilda installation in the store’s central atrium, featuring a giant exploding satchel.

At the Cambridge Theatre, booking has already opened for December 2014.

Box office 0844 412 4652 matildathemusical.com Father Christmas Pins and Needles’ excellent production of Raymond Briggs’ much-loved Father Christmas returns to the Lyric this year with its characterful rendition of the slightly grumpy santa who hates snow and only just manages to get the world’s presents out in time.

To 4 January 2014. Bookings 020 8741 6850

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GIFTED and TALENTED ABSOLUTELY THE BEST PRESENTS FOR EVERYONE

Missoni Home Chevron candle £164, occa-home.co.uk

Ticket vouchers for the Electric Cinema From £36 electriccinematickets.co.uk

De Beers Aura studs £3225; debeers.co.uk

Mark McGinnis for SCP alphabet mugs £14.50, scp.co.uk

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ABSOLUTELY | CHR ISTM AS

Bentley and Vintage Classics special edition of Casino Royale £750, vintage-books.co.uk

ASSYA MOONLIGHT NECKLACE, GOLD VERMEIL WITH PINK OPAL £320, assyalondon.com

Susan Deliss glass baubles susandeliss.com

R1-S razor in Monza red £40, bolinwebb.com

Folio Society’s The Great Gatsby £29.95; folioscoiety.com

Paul Smith Cambridge Chronograph watch £585, paulsmith.co.uk

Jo Malone Peony & Blush Suede Cologne £78, jomalone.com

Pink Lining leather Grace tote £175, pinkling.com/uk

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ABSOLUTELY | CHR ISTM AS

Absolutely Another year Have you been paying attention during 2013?

Test yourself with our christmas quiz

1

5

Which maverick Ladbroke Grovedwelling fashion photographer had an exhibition at the ICA earlier this year, and told Absolutely that he loved Portobello Road’s Galicia?

9

6

Which model-turnedentrepreneur, named after a character in a Doris Day movie, told Absolutely in March that she’s dying to have a baby, and now has two?

10

3

A rare exhibition of silent film star Harold Lloyd’s own photographs of which film star went on display at Julie’s in February?

7

11

4

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In January 2013, the Electric Cinema opened a new kiosk in the foyer selling sugary treats.

They became an instant success and threatened to topple the cupcake from its position as favourite Notting Hill snack. What’s the treat?

2

In February, another snack hit Portobello, with an entire shop exclusively selling it. What was it?

Which German Dadaist artist, the subject of a Tate retrospective in spring, was widely associated with the Lake District, but also spent a less famous period living in St Stephens Crescent W2?

Which DJ has been a fixture on the London scene since the early 80s and is often seen around Portobello on a Raleigh Chopper?

His collection of bicycles featured in the recent book My Cool Bike.

Which well-connected and outspoken writer famously refers to her neighbourhood as ‘Notting Hell’ and to her neighbours as ‘the haves and the have-yachts’?

Geordie Greig’s new book Breakfast with Lucian is the product of a decade of breakfasts with Lucian Freud at which established W8 eaterie?

Which Notting Hillbased photographer counts shooting the last ever picture of Keith Moon among his claims to fame?

1 DOUGHNUTS 2 POPCORN 3 MARILYN MONROE 4 KURT SCHWITTERS 5 JURGEN TELLER 6 CAPRICE BOURRET 7 ZIGGY STARDUST 8 NORMAN JAY 9 ALLY CAPPELLINO 10 RACHEL JOHNSON 11 CLARKE'S 12 RICHARD YOUNG

ANSWERS >

In July, The Idler Academy held a wake to mark 50 years since a famous stage suicide in Hammersmith. Who died?

Which bag designer with a shop on Golborne Road was featured in the V&A's Club to Catwalk exhibition not for bags but for her 1980s fashion collection?

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ABSOLUTELY | CHR ISTM AS

A Christmas

LIBRARY

This year’s finest literary gifts, as recommended by Lutyens & Rubinstein

Best for

ART LOVERS

Breakfast with Lucian, Geordie Greig

A beautifully produced memoir of time spent with the great artist. Full of fascinating anecdotes, and real insight. Jonathan Cape, £25 Best for

Best for

SCIENTISTS

The Simpsons and Their Mathematical Secrets, Simon Singh

Serious maths, and some serious comedy make this book a must for anyone who has a scientific brain, and anyone who loves the show.

Bloomsbury, £18.99

Diana Vreeland Memos: The Vogue Years

An Officer and A Spy, Robert Harris

Hook Line and Singer, Cerys Matthews

Best for

LOCALS

Portobello Voices, Blanche Girouard Interviews and photographs of a host of local characters, it’s a must anyone who lives in the neighbourhood.

The History Press, £14.99

TRAVELLERS

From one of our favourite small publishers, this book is Conrad’s memories of his own seafaring life. The book is beautifully illustrated with paintings

by John Everett, himself a sailor.

Little Toller, £12

Best for

FAMILIES

FOODIES

The Mirror of the Sea, Joseph Conrad

A collection of well-chosen short stories by and about women. Head of Zeus, £20

Best for

Best for

Best for

The Story: Love, Loss & The Lives of Women: 100 Great Short Stories, edited

by Victoria Hislo

A great historical thriller retelling the Dreyfus Affair in Harris’s own gripping style. Hutchinson, £18.99

An incredible behind the scenes look at Diana Vreeland’s Vogue. This book contains a huge amount of her personal correspondence, including letters to Norman Parkinson, Veruschka and Cristobal Balenciaga.

Rizzoli, £35

A much-deserved reissue of this seminal Italian cookbook, with authentic recipes and mouthwatering photos. Pavilion, £30

MUM

DAD

FASHIONISTAS

The Gastronomy of Italy, Anna Del Conte

Best for

Best for

TEENS

More than This, Patrick Ness

Controversial but brilliant, this novel for young adults raises the question of what happens after we die. Walker, £12.99

Try a family singalong as an alternative to spending Christmas afternoon slumped in front of the telly. Particular, £20 Best for

HISTORY & BIOGRAPHY FANS

Priscilla, Nicholas Shakespeare

The incredible story of the author’s aunt, a young English woman in France during the Nazi occupation. Harvill Secker, £18.99

Lutyens & Rubinstein, 21 Kensington Park Road W11 lutyensrubinstein.co.uk

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22/11/2013 17:05

name pictures, stationery & decoration for children www.juliabostonkids.com tel: 020 7610 6783

December 2013.indd 1 JULIA BOSTON.indd

05/11/2013 20/11/2013 16:21 17:49

H&Y Jewellery is not just a product but an ‘art form’. Situated in the prestigious Beauchamp Place, Knightsbridge, their store boasts the finest rare jewellery.

BOLLYWOOD COUTURE is an exclusive brand of luxury tunics, accessories and pashmina shawls. We use the finest materials including silk, georgette & lace fabrics combined with ornate, delicate ancestral embroidery techniques. Our signature style is based on the fusion of Asian artisan workmanship and modern fashion offering our clients authentic elegance.

bollywoodcouture.com // 0800 228 9047

With expertise in the fields of watches and diamonds, each member of staff can provide a unique insight into the world of fine jewellery.

Showcasing the most vibrant designs and well-known names in luxury, their Italian design jewellery has the finest craftsmanship whether modern or classic.

41 Beauchamp Place, Knightsbridge, London SW13 1NX 020 7589 8877 www.hyjewellery.co.uk

ABSOLUTELY | CHR ISTM AS

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Little boxes ABSOLUTELY THE BEST ADVENT CALENDARS 8

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9 7 1. Mini Bologna House, £10.95, carluccios.com 2. Mini Mani month calendar, Ciate, £42, spacenk.com 3. Advent House, £55, gltc.co.uk 4. Lego Friends Advent Calendar £19.99, friends.lego.com 5. The Advent Calendar, £30, prestat.co.uk 6. Truffles for Two Advent Calendar, £26, hotelchocolat.com 7. Limited edition advent calendar by Susie Watson, £45.00, biscuiteers.com 8. Advent Calendar Tealights, £12, vandashop.com 9. Yuletide Carolers Pop-Up Calendar, £9.99, vandashop.com 10. Wooden Fortnum & Mason Advent Calendar, £125, fortnumandmason.com

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ZAEEM JAMAL.indd 1

20/11/2013 15:52

ABSOLUTELY | ST Y LE

Fashion NOTES FOR THE SARTORIALLY MINDED

PIN TUCK New York label fashion is stocked at Kensington Park Road’s West Village and the range of beautifully cut silks, bright, unusual colours and stylish prints are winning over the women of Notting Hill.

35 Kensington Park Road W11; thewestvillage. myshopify.com

Fabulous furs FANCY FEET

CLEO B has devised the ultimate solution to footwear fatigue: the shoe clip. Simply attach a crystal, a fur pompom or a metal clip and transform a plain pump into a whole new party shoe.

West London-based fashion designer Ducie Keam-George’s own-label collectionmay be mostly about floaty frocks, but her new fur collection, just landed, is all about luxurious fur and sharp jacket shapes. Our favourite is the Sporty Lapin in forest green with a pink and green stripe, £425, but we are also coveting the neon fur hats at £75. ducie.co.uk

VARIATIONS ON A THEME – GLITTER

cleob.com

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I Want Candy THE new cruise collection from Veronica Moncho Lobo features film star-inspired looks in candy colours, with pieces including the Audrey H, the Elizabeth T and the Brigitte B. We love this Zsa Zsa G shorts suit for its cuteness; but if it’s sophistication you’re after, you’d prefer the beautifully cut black silk jumpsuits. moncholobo.com

1. Anya Hindmarch Valorie clutch, £395; net-a-porter. com 2. Laurence Dacade Pete leather ankle boot, £565; brownsfashion.com 3. Day Birger Et Mikkelsen Night Flame jacket, £310; my-wardrobe.com 4. Sophia Webster Azealia clutch, £495; net-a-porter.com 5.

Anniel ballerina shoes, £125; brownsfashion.com

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SILK & CASHMERE.indd 2

20/11/2013 11:58

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Razzle Dazzle Sparkle and shine with this season’s festive fashion

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1. Isme Purple Bow Dress, £73; isme.com 2. Rebecca Taylor Scroll Embellished Day Dress, £995; matchesfashion.com 3. Alexander McQueen Crystal Embellished Clutch, £1060; matchesfashion.com 4. oliviadeur.com 5. Office On Top heel, £65; office.co.uk 6. Jimmy Choo Besso Textured and Mirrored Leather Sandals, £550; net-a-porter.com 7. Linea Sequin Collar, £25; houseoffraser.co.uk 8. Ronen Chen Elinor Dress, £160; ronenchenstoreuk.com 9. Office Refine Yourself, £60; office.co.uk 10. Percossi Papi Gold-plated Multi-stone Earrings, £1,375; net-a-porter.com 11. Monsoon Sally Sequin Skirt, £99; uk.monsoon.co.uk 12. Bottega Veneta Sterling Silver Rock Crystal Bracelet, £3,585; net-a-porter.com

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ABSOLUTELY ABSOLUTELY| |PROMOTION XXXXXXX

Dress to impress It’s party time! Leon Max showcases a fabulous collection of dresses for every occasion

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22/11/2013 17:20

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25/10/2013 17:20 12:30 22/11/2013 23/10/2013 14:33

Goldilocks Yellow lace dress, Dolce and Gabbana at Matches Tulle underskirt (worn underneath) Alice + Olivia at Net-A-Porter Cream tights, Falke at www.mytights.com Shoes, Valentino at Net-APorter Chocolate brown knickers, What Katie Did

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Once upon a

time

FASHION MEETS FANTASY IN OUR FESTIVE, FAIRY TALE INSPIRED SHOOT

Photography: SQUIZ HAMILTON Styling: THEA LEWIS-YATES

NOV SHOOT_Fairytale_final.indd 39

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Little Red Riding Hood Red patent Mac, Burberry Prorsum Black sheer heart socks, Falke at www.mytights.com Black ankle boots, Gucci Red wool beret, Stylist's own

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22/11/2013 17:12

Snow White White nightshirt style dress, Giles at Matches Gold signet ring, Sophie Breitmeyer

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22/11/2013 17:12

Alice in Wonderland Duck-egg blue silk jacket and skirt, Gucci Grey and Black 2-tone Leather collar, Marni Pearl necklace (worn under collar), Basia Zarzycka Cream socks, Falke at www.mytights.com Black ankle-strap shoes, Vivienne Westwood

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22/11/2013 17:13

Dorothy Blue and red heck silk dress, Vivienne Westwood Couture Cream blouse with black ribbon tie, Rochas at Net-A-Porter Ring, Gabriella Parkes (just seen) Pale blue tights, Stylist's own Red platform shoes, Charlotte Olympia

NOV SHOOT_Fairytale_final.indd 43

22/11/2013 17:14

Sleeping Beauty Baby pink feather dress, Oscar de la Renta Pink satin ballet shoes, Freed of London Ring, Gabriella Parkes

Stylist - Thea Lewis-Yates Models - Vika at Nevs and Ulya at Premier Make-up - Yin Lee at Era Management using M.A.C cosmetics Hair - Eugene Davies at FTWS using Diva Pro and Bumble and Bumble Photographer's assistant - Sam Soloku Stylist's assistants - Joanne Mulcare and Laura Sophia Cox Make-up assistant - Joanne Reyes Hair assistant - Wayne Shorter-Campbell

NOV SHOOT_Fairytale_final.indd 44

22/11/2013 17:15

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27/11/2012 17:20

ABSOLUTELY | PROFILE

Annie

GETS HER TUNE DJ AND RADIO 1 FAVOURITE ANNIE MAC ON A CAREER IN MUSIC, BECOMING A MOTHER AND LIVING IN KENSAL RISE

You have been at the BBC since 2004. Have things changed a lot?

Earlier this year we moved to the brand new refurbished Broadcasting House. Now we’re in the penthouse there and it feels like Radio 1 is this glossy, international radio station that means business. When I started we were in this slightly ramshackle building called Yalding House; it was just Radio 1 that lived there and 1Xtra when that started, so it felt like we were our own little thing away from the rest of the BBC. It was old and lived-in – a bit messy - but it was charismatic and there was lots of history there. You’d worry about these massive stars coming in because the toilets would smell and the vending machine would be broken and it was all a bit shabby. Now it looks like somewhere you can be proud of.

There’s a lot that Radio 1 does that other stations in the BBC don’t do, in terms of their commitment to breaking new talent - do you think that there’s a balance struck between inspiring and entertaining?

That’s what the BBC offers above and beyond commercial radio stations. In the evenings

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RADIO SHOWS ARE LOVELY BUT THEY’RE TRANSIENT

You also released an Annie Mac Presents record earlier this year - what was the thinking behind that?

The compilations are a way to get something out there that represents me and everything I’m about, something people can get their hands on. Radio shows are lovely but they’re transient, it’s nice to have something that people can keep and own. It’s also about saying ‘this is what I think are the greatest songs of this year’, or the songs of this year that will stand the test of time.

Do you think the digital revolution is a good or a bad thing for artists?

Well, of course it’s a bad thing for artists because it costs money to make music and they’re not getting

back the money they are spending making it, I suppose. I don’t feel that the music industry has caught up. I mean, they’re obviously doing their best and things like Spotify are genius. But I just think you can’t fight it. You have to find a way to work with it, which is why I really admire Spotify and also the BBC’s new tool, Playlister [which allows users to export custom playlists of songs heard on any BBC radio or television show to Spotify or Youtube]. Stuff like that is a good example of the BBC learning to work with a new generation of music consumers.

What was it like presenting a show with Nick Grimshaw?

You seemed to have really good chemistry.

after seven o’clock we have this weird and wonderful time of specialist DJs and documentaries and a talk-show about music. Every corner of alternative music is represented by experts and if you like new music we’ve got every angle covered Then during the day we play more mainstream music - though if you put a BBC playlist next to, say, a Galaxy playlist or even a Capital playlist, it’s still really alternative compared to those commercial stations. We really do champion new acts.

You recently curated a 200-strong record collection for W Hotels. Could you give a brief overview of the project and how you got involved?

I really liked the idea, which is that you can call down to reception and order up vinyl and a record player from a booklet. I liked the idea of providing musical moments for people in hotel rooms. I spend loads of time in hotels when I’m on tour and it’s quite lonely sometimes, so it’s nice to provide a little bit of musical solace, I suppose. It was a nice trip down memory lane for me, because I got to go through all my old vinyl and pick out my favourite records and think about the vinyl I didn’t have that I wanted. I kind of wanted someone to source all the ones I didn’t have and send them to me!

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ABSOLUTELY | PROFILE

You live in Kensal Rise. What do you like about the area?

I really love living here. I’ve lived everywhere from Forest Gate to Battersea to Holloway and this is my favourite place.

It’s a really nice antidote to what I do at the weekends, meaning it’s quiet basically. Kensal Rise is really villagey, it has a really nice community feeling and I like the fact that it’s not too posh. It’s really mixed and it’s got a gorgeous park and some lovely pubs and some lovely restaurants and it’s close to town. Yeah, I’m really happy here – I don’t think I’ll be leaving any time soon.

Well, I met him out once in Camden years ago. I was doing a show at the time and we were looking for someone to come in and be a fun contributor. I suggested Grimmy and he came in and won everyone over pretty much immediately. And then it wasn’t long before he was co-hosting.

Doing the show with him was fun, it never felt like work.

What has been the craziest party you’ve ever played?

There was a night in Miami two years ago at the Ultra Music Festival; I had my own stage and by the end of the set everyone I knew at the festival was on stage with me. We all ended up at a party at P Diddy’s house. It was one of the most epic, fun nights.

I did four gigs seven hours and then watched the sun coming up over P Diddy’s swimming pool.

Has everything calmed down a bit since you had your baby?

I haven’t really got back into the swing of proper touring since the baby. I’ve done bits and pieces, but today I’ve been thinking about how my American tour next year will be possible as a mother. I’m really lucky in that both me and my partner have really enthusiastic parents who are happy to look after our kids, so there’ll be periods where I’ll be away for a week or so and he’ll be looked after really well.

Do you have a favourite haunt?

The Chamberlayne is just a really good solid pub and I’m a big pub fan – coming from Ireland I have high standards when it comes to pubs.

The Chamberlayne ticks every box. It does incredible food as well, a really nice restaurant. I really like it there.

TOP THREE My favourite album of all time is between Lauryn Hill’s The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill and Van Morrison’s Astral Weeks.

My favourite act this year is Miguel. I think he’s incredible.

My favourite DJ of all time would be DJ Mehdi, a French DJ who passed away a few years ago. He was the most incredible DJ and he always played with a massive smile on his face.

49 profile.indd 49

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19/11/2013 16:21

| PROFILE ABSOLUTELY | XXXXXXXXX ABSOLUTELY

A portrait of the

A ARTIST Be it breakfasting with Freud or editing newspapers, GEORDIE GREIG takes it all in his stride, finds Edwina Langley

hat type of person could stalk Lucian Freud, the legendary, notoriously private and unpredictable late artist into a decade-long friendship?

‘Thank you so much for your interest in my book,’ says Geordie Greig, author of Breakfast with Lucian and editor of the Mail on Sunday. ‘Thank you, thank you, thank you.’ That type of person. Indeed Greig’s softly spoken, unassuming voice reveals instantly why, upon first meeting, the great Freud might have ‘stared intently’ at him and proffered a warm ‘if cautious’ greeting.

But it wasn’t an easy first meeting to book. Indeed, by his own admission, it took Greig 20 years to turn ‘stalking into talking’.

At 17 years old on a school trip from Eton, Geordie Greig first laid eyes on Freud’s work in the form of Naked Man With Rat (1977-78). Instantly captivated, back at school he fired off

a letter, requesting an interview with Freud for the school magazine. He received no response. Other letters he subsequently sent over the next two decades were left unanswered too and Greig had no choice but to observe this intriguing figure from afar. Until 1997.

As Literary Editor of the Sunday Times, Greig found himself rifling through a monograph of Stanley Spencer’s work that had appeared on his desk, and was suddenly struck how much Spencer’s nudes reminded him of Freud’s work. Might Freud consider writing a review? Off went another postcard, but this one secured a response, a personal phone call from Freud himself. Whilst Freud was adamant Spencer’s work was ‘absolutely nothing like mine... the opposite,’ Greig had aroused his interest and Freud requested a copy of the book. He eventually turned down the review but at least (and at last) contact had been made.

That was to mark the beginning of a friendship that spanned ten years and resulted in Greig’s new book, Breakfast with Lucian: A Portrait of The Artist, the product of ten years of breakfasts at Sally Clarke’s restaurant in Kensington Church Street.

‘He was the most mesmerising person to meet,’ Greig tells me chirpily down the telephone. ‘He had an incredibly complicated and complex life. He went from high society to lowlife with criminals – hanging out in slum dwellings in Paddington, to weekends at Badminton with the Duke of Beaufort. At the end of his life, his paintings were going for £17.2million (to Roman Abramovich) but at low points, he owed millions and was on the run from debtors and criminals who’d lent him money. It was a roller coaster of a life, and by all means, he was the cultural Forrest Gump of our time, of our century... the last great bohemian.’

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| PROFILE ABSOLUTELY | XXXXXXX ABSOLUTELY

Throughout his book, Greig meticulously, and mindfully, picks through Freud’s life, in a ‘warts and all’ fashion, describing minute details – from how he liked his tea to his often irrational selfishness, the lives behind his muses to Freud’s preference for anal sex (which he felt demonstrated ultimate female submission). A fascinating insight for outsiders, but for such a secretive person as Freud, who compartmentalised virtually every aspect of his life – work, family, friends, lovers – what would he have made of it? After all, in the very Preface, Greig reveals how Freud pulled the plug on an authorised biography once, horrified by its level of detail. ‘He had the most incredible observation of himself,’ said Greig when I asked, ‘and you would hope he would have appreciated the care I took to try to bring ferocity to what I saw and heard. In a way, his mantra was to be ferociously honest with what he saw and what he did. I took that same standard.’

Renowned for ending friendships on a whim or for trifling reasons (such as with his daughter, Anne, who he distanced himself from forever after she refused to let her own daughter suffer the long and arduous ordeal of sitting for him) could a balanced friendship with Freud ever be possible? Did Greig ever feel he could be ‘ferociously honest’ with the artist or was he constantly treading on eggshells?

‘True, it was a friendship I valued very much, but I was very lucky in that we never did fall out. It was always possible with Lucian that you could. And it might have been over some minor thing or some idiocy that I might have done. But luckily that never happened. You always knew if you were fine because he saw you.

I didn’t have his telephone number so it always had to come from him or via his amazing assistant, David

IT TOOK GREIG 20 YEARS TO TURN ‘STALKING INTO TALKING’

Dawson. If you were cast out, there was no way of getting hold of him.

But if you were inside the tent, it was an incredible place to be.’ The loyalty and devotion commanded by Freud is almost palpable.

After all those years of interest and effort on Greig’s part, did he not deserve the honour of sitting for a painting? I tell him I waited the whole book long to read he was at least asked, but Greig laughs and says, ‘He never did! Lucian never did anything he didn’t want to do and he knew I was very busy. When we first met for breakfast I was editor of the Evening Standard and I used to get up at 4:30 in the morning. So it was a very long day.

But he was the most extraordinary companion at breakfast.’

But while Greig’s book is full of stories, anecdotes and memories of how Freud affected the lives of those around him, the point seems to have been missed how each of those lives – the muses, dealers, lovers, friends – enriched the life of Freud himself. Without them, what would his paintings be, and indeed, what would he have been? Rather touchingly, it seems to have entirely skipped Greig’s attention too, that Freud would not have sparked up a friendship with just any journalist, and in fact, there must

be something rather extraordinary about Greig himself, to have piqued Freud’s interest for 10 years worth of breakfasts.

Greig lives with his wife and three children in Notting Hill, which he loves for its Metropolitan buzz.

‘I used to live in Greenwich Village in New York, and so for me there are great echoes of that very happy time. It’s when I met my American wife, so it’s got very good vibes...’

Geordie Greig may be the reporter who skilfully stalked Lucian Freud into a friendship that culminated in a heartfelt and loving biographical tribute to the great artist’s life, but I am quite certain that had he known this would be the outcome, it would have been Lucian Freud stalking Geordie Greig for a friendship.

Breakfast with Lucian: A Portrait of the Artist, by Geordie Greig Jonathan Cape, £25.

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22/11/2013 18:53

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22/11/2013 14:48

This

Woman’s Work

ClaraPaul Secret supper chef

Interview by Lindsay Baker Portrait by Emma Harpin

he pop-up supper-club phenomenon has proved to be more than a passing fad. In fact, the rise of the informal, one-off dining event has been meteoric in the past couple of years, with a constant stream of new underground foodie evenings and guerilla restaurants appearing. In Notting Hill, Clara Paul, founder of Clara Cooks, is a relative newcomer to the pop-up scene, but word is getting around about her ‘secret suppers’.

The key to the perfect supper, she tells me, is the combination of conviviality and tasty food with a frisson of secrecy and spontaneity. The 28-year-old cook creates evenings for 'creative people who like food,' and has so far hosted events in private houses – the guests are a mix of the homeowners’ friends and Clara’s invitees. 'I know a lot of people in fashion and creative industries, and I love putting people together who might not have met. It’s all about good fun.'

Describing her suppers as a cross between a dinner party and a pop-up restaurant, Clara is keen to point out that her role is not simply as caterer (although she does also offer a separate private catering service, which includes wedding bookings). 'I’m not anonymous at the suppers. I’m not just in the kitchen, I’m also at the table joining in. And it’s my menu, I’ve picked the flowers, and I’ve laid the table.'

The word about an event is spread directly by phone or email, rather than out there on Twitter or other social media. Clara prefers old-fashioned 'word of mouth,' she says. As for the food, she favours hearty fare – for instance, a gazpacho with peach salsa followed by seared skirt steak with roasted courgettes or brussell sprouts and braised lentils. Plus something 'chocolatey' for pudding.

She doesn’t like fussy food, doesn’t do 'foams and mousses,' and uses flavoursome but economical cuts of meat to keep prices down for guests.

Her whole family has always been 'mad about food,' and she recalls memories of lively dinners at home with her parents, two sisters and whoever else turned up. 'With my suppers I try to re-create that perfect

buzz of noise and chatter and clinking glasses and cutlery. And I do it with food that isn’t so out there that it distracts from the conversation and the fun.'

Her training at the renowned Ballymaloe Cookery School in West Cork, run by Irish cooking doyenne Darina Allen, was inspiring, she says, and taught her a lot about 'slow food' as well as the art of sitting around the table for hours chatting.

From there Clara went to work as chef in the dining room of Books for Cooks, the recipe-book mecca in Blenheim Crescent. Four years on, it is still her daytime job, and she loves the 'community, neighbourhood' feel of the shop, she says. “One of the things the job has taught me is that cookery books are good for referencing but you don’t have to follow them exactly.” In the new year she is due to leave the day job in order to pursue Clara Cooks full time.

The neighbourhood certainly serves Clara’s foodie needs well. She lives off Ladbroke Grove and always buys her vegetables from the market every morning. Favourites for eating out are café Lowry & Baker on Portobello, the Turkish Fez Mangal on Ladbroke Grove (for their lamb chops), Persian eaterie Anar and Mexican restaurant Santo, both also on Portobello, and the Maroccan food truck on Goldborne Road, where she loves to “wrap up” and sit outside for some warming harira soup and Merguez sausages.

It’s not all about the food, though. Another favourite haunt is urban fashion boutique Supra on Chamberlayne Road, where Clara goes for the glamorous dresses she wears when hosting her events. The look and feel of her secret suppers are, it seems, just as important as what is on the menu.

'My grandma always said "it’s only food," and I agree,' she says. 'You don’t need to talk about it. I want people just to relax and enjoy the atmosphere and the twinkling candles, the beautiful-smelling flowers and lovely mismatched plates and linen napkins. It’s a complete sensory experience.' claracooks.co.uk

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ABSOLUTELY | INTERV IEW

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6. Silve ra £3.95 ea nd Green Ow ch; rigby ls andmac , .com 7. Peac oc rigbyan k, £5.95; dmac.co m 8. Reco rd Play e rigbyan dmac.cor, £8.95; m 9. Mult i Colou red Pa Decora per Ma che £7. 50; olition, verbona s.com 10. Par ty D £12.50; b og Globe Dec oration erryred.c , o.uk

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22/11/2013 17:23

Mint CONDITION Camilla Kelly of The Mint List outlines her design philosophy. Photographs by Mark Brumell and Marsy Hild

Our look is all about pulling from a variety of elements, textures and eras to achieve a sole purpose of design. So for instance, you can use utilitarian, neutral colours such as greys and browns as a basis but then incorporate occasional elements of interest and storytelling such as vibrant, vintage glassware, textiles or artwork.

We have an ongoing interest for all things vintage, salvaged and antique but it’s important that these things can sit together within a context that’s current and can still have an element of ‘luxe’. Eclectic is a word that’s banded about a lot but it continues to be the overriding inspiration for The Mint List.

We’ve just expanded our collection of wallpaper designers with the addition of Barnaby Gates, whose wallpapers are both stunningly visual but also easily able to sit within a space and quietly compliment it. Our list of independent partners is constantly growing and evolving keeping our stock endlessly original and exciting which, for us, is what interior decorating is all about.

DINING TABLE AND CHAIRS This is a table and a half. It’s the perfect, hardy kitchen or dining table to bring family and friends together around. The chunky table top is made from reclaimed wood and has a completely inimitable, rich, vintage patina. The dimensions are made to order with the base being painted in a range of colours. These vintage chairs are mismatched but still work together with one theme.

58 Mint list shoot.indd 58

22/11/2013 17:24

ABSOLUTELY | INTER IOR S

KITCHEN BENCH, GLASS VASES AND BIRD ORNAMENT The top of this wonderful kitchen bench (and island) is made from salvaged wood and the base is made to order and can be painted in any colour. Vintage crates are brilliantly useful for storing food or kitchenware on the lower shelf and can be labelled with bespoke lettering. The thick, rustic wood that comprises the surface top brings great warmth and character to a kitchen especially when it’s used as an island centre piece. The rustic surface can be also counter balanced with a base unit that is painted in darker colours to give more of a utilitarian feel.

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22/11/2013 17:24

ABSOLUTELY | INTER IOR S

DUCK LAMP The duck lamp is a completely joyous objet for the home and the perfect guardian for your desktop affairs. Or if you’re not quite brave enough to bring him into the office he can stand atop a coffee table at home. As long as he has pride of place, he will certainly be a talking point. He should be on everyone’s christmas list.

WALLPAPER

themintlist.com Shot at Loft Studios, NW10 loftstudios.co.uk

Daniel Heath’s Taxidermy Birds is a stunning wallpaper that depicts birds that on closer inspection are in fact pinned, stuffed and preserved in a nod to the beautifully macabre. Each of these birds has been hand drawn by the artist and all papers are silk-screen printed by hand and made in East London.

In Beware The Moon’s Animals, each animal has been beautifully (and painstakingly) hand drawn over a period of an entire year. They are all charmingly running in one direction except for the dodo which is running against the tide.

In Barneby Gates’s Horse Trellis, the two colours are so diametrically opposed but complement each other by working wonderfully in geometric order creating a mood that’s both formal and contemporary.

60 Mint list shoot.indd 60

22/11/2013 17:24

Specialists in refurbishment and extension of listed buildings. We offer the complete service: Architectural Design Planning Interior Design Building Construction Telephone us for a free consultation

020 7221 5966

www.crawfordandgray.co.uk

CRAWFORD AND GRAY.2.indd 1

28/08/2012 09:35

Grate Expectations has been established and successfully running for over 25 years and remains a family business.

Whether you're looking for a rare antique feature, a classic reproduction, or a truly impressive contemporary feature we offer you the technical advice & assistance required with full in house bespoke design fans and chimney lining a speciality.

1-3 Station Buildings, Kingston Road, Wimbledon Chase, London, SW20 8JT Showroom: 0208 540 8387 LANDSCAPE GRATE EXPECTIONS.indd 1

ADVERT PLACEMENTS.indd 3

www.grateexpectations.com info@grateexpectations.com

17/01/2013 14:08

22/11/2013 17:02

INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE, INTERIOR DESIGN & BESPOKE FURNITURE

INTARYA.indd 2

02/09/2013 14:18

WWW.INTARYA.COM | +44 (0) 20 7349 8020

INTARYA.indd 3

02/09/2013 14:18

Wishing all babies born in 2013 the joy of family, the gift of love and the best of health.

In 2013, The Portland Hospital was very proud to welcome around 2,000 babies into the world and cared for over 50,000 children. As the wonder and magic of Christmas approaches, the team at The Portland Hospital wishes you and your family our warmest seasonal greetings.

Telephone: +44 (0)20 7390 8202 www.theportlandhospital.com Internationally renowned for clinical excellence, The Portland Hospital is the only private hospital in London entirely dedicated to women and children.

FULL PAGE.indd 2

06/11/2013 11:37

ABSOLUTELY | CHR ISTM AS

Gifts

FOR

Tinies

TOP TOYS FROM SANTA’S SACK

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1. Steiff Lielou Pug, £154.99, steiffteddybears.co.uk 2. Audrey Hepburn Roman Holiday Barbie, £54.95; harrods.com 3. Little Lucy Willow Alphabet Canvas Wendy House, £130; littlelucywillow.co.uk 4. Frog 55 Pudsey bike, £350 (with £25 going to Children in Need), frogbikes.com 5. Horned Woven Seat Sledge, £98; hedgehogshop.co.uk 6. Deluxe Magic Set, £39; grahamandgreen.co.uk 7. Paperchase Bambi Hot Water Bottle, £8; paperchase.co.uk 8. The Grey Fairy Book, £44.95; foliosociety.com

65 KIDS GIFTS.indd 65

22/11/2013 18:00

in

DISCOVERMORE

Pl

ac e Ye s A ar va s 7 ila , 8 ble &9

traditional values at its core, Kew House School takes an exciting

Open Days

stance on 21st century education. With state-of-the-art facilities,

December 3rd/10th (9.30am/7pm)

a broad curriculum and excellent pastoral care, Kew House is

January 13th/30th (9.30am/7pm)

Embracing an innovative, modern approach whilst keeping

a place where you would want to be – a place of learning and discovery, laughter and friendship.

February 4th/27th (9.30am/9.30am)

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

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

KEW HOUSE SCHOOL.indd 2

@kewhouseschool

20/11/2013 16:09

ABSOLUTELY | EDUCATION

Free thinking Many of London’s free schools are daring to be different – and prospective parents are all for it.

Amanda Constance looks at what some have to offer

hat was a mere twinkle in Michael Gove’s eye a few years ago has given birth to an education revolution. Since the Education Secretary gave the first free schools the green light in September 2011, their number has grown to 174 nationwide with many more approved to open in the next academic year. Many of these are already attracting more pupils than they have room for. In a recent survey by the Department of Education, some reported as many as ten applications for every place.

It’s a familiar story in London, where there is a critical lack of places at both primary and secondary stages, in both the independent and state sectors. Parents are queuing at the gates of the capital’s free schools, not simply because they don’t have other options. Free schools are just that, and the freedom for parents and educators to set their own curriculum has ushered in some innovative approaches that would have been unthinkable just a few years ago.

Maria Evans is the vice-chair of governors at Gladstone Free School, a secondary free school in north-west London that will open its doors to students next September.

Previously the director of education at the Royal Shakespeare Company, Evans has more than 25 years experience in art and education and first looked into establishing a school at the behest of other local parents.

“We’re setting up something enormously ambitious,” Evans explains, adding that the teaching at GFS won’t deviate much

from the national curriculum. GFS will be a small school, no more than 800 pupils, a luxury in inner London state education. It will have a mandatory extended day, with classes ending at 5.30 except on Fridays.

‘Enrichment’ or extracurricular activities will be hugely encouraged and progressive teaching practices, such as moving around the room, experiential learning and lessons outside the classroom, will all form part of the core ethos. And before you imagine this will be an enclave for every Milo and Tallulah in north-west London, think again.

GFS will be non-selective and teach mixed ability classes, with pupils drawn from the immediate catchment area.

The team behind GFS took inspiration from Greenwich Free School, a secondary on the other side of London that has a 'high expectation, no excuses, no shortcuts ethos,' says its head, Lee Faith. The school runs an extended day from 7.45am to 5.30pm and enrichment activities in the afternoon include Latin and debating. It is already seven times oversubscribed.

The Judith Kerr Primary School, in Herne Hill, south London, offers something entirely different. It is the country’s first bilingual state school, with teaching in German and English. Another bilingual free school, The Marco Polo Academy, will be the first English-Chinese bilingual primary school in the UK when it opens in Barnet in September 2014.

'The emergence of bilingual schools is a good example of how free schools

are responding to the demands of local parents,' says Natalie Evans, director of the New Schools Network, the charity set up to help people planning free schools.

And it isn’t just new schools that are taking up the free school baton.

Established schools such as the muchadmired Burlington Danes Academy and gold-standard Marylebone Girls are extending their franchise with free schools. BDA will open a primary free school on its 10-acre site next September and Marylebone Boys will open to year seven boys at the same time.

What marks out many of the free schools, however, is a return to tradition and academic rigour. When Fulham Boys held its first open day, 650 people attended. Built on ‘Christian principles and values’, its website looks like that of a public school. Governors include Barrister Caroline Grieve, wife of Attorney General Dominic Grieve, and Elizabeth Phillips, headteacher at St Marylebone CofE School.

This ‘old ways are the best ways’ approach has done well for the West London Free School. The headlinegrabbing school is self-consciously traditional; Classics and Latin are compulsory, discipline is strict and competition is encouraged. Two years after opening, it remains hugely oversubscribed.

They are controversial and not without their troubles but, whatever your political stripes, no one can deny that free schools are having their moment.

67 EDUCATION_v2.indd 67

22/11/2013 17:28

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LOVVIT.V3.indd 1

Before

After 21/11/2013 18:02

ABSOLUTELY | HEA LTH & BEAUT Y

Beauty NOTES Health, beauty and wellbeing in the area

JAMIE STEVENS HAIR SALON READER OFFER

Drama Queen If there’s ever a time you can get away with a dramatic look, it’s party season. We love MAC’s striking nail vainishes/eyeshadows – perfect for enlivening an LBD ensemble.

Mineralize Eye Shadow in Cha -cha-cha, £17, 68 King William Street, EC4; maccosmetics.co.uk

OF THE BEST RETINOL PRODUCTS

1. Verso Day Cream with SPF, £95 net-a-porter.com 2. La Roche-PosayRedermic Treatment Treatment, £28, boots.com 3. Skinceuticals Retinol Night Cream, £39.90 skinfantastic.co.uk

HAND OVER Liz Earle’s new superskinhand serum might well be the ultimate perfect hand cream.

It’s lightweight and non-sticky while softening even the driest skin. With its fresh scent and high antioxidant content, it’s a potent formula that makes your winter hands feel fabulous.

£17.50; uk.lizearle.com

Jamie Stevens – hair salon to the stars – is tucked away rather incongruously on Russell Gardens in West Kensington next to neighbourhoodfavouritesAlounak and Cibo. The salon is the official hairdresser for the X Factor and there are worse things in life than spending a cold winter’s day having your tresses done whilst getting the gossip about this year’s merry crop of songsters.

Harry Casey, stylist and afro specialist, did my colour. He seemed unperturbed by my mousey bob – Beyonce I am not – but chose warmer hues than my usual blonde highlights which worked brilliantly, and perfect for darker days.

The bob got back into shape courtesy of senior stylist Jonathan Andrew who really knows what he’s doing. He understood my fine hair straight away, giving the cut all the structure and fancy scissor work that it needs.

This is a newish salon. It’s young, it’s fun and if it doesn’t watch out, it will soon be as established in the area was its neighbours.

9 Russell Gardens, W14, 020 7371 1944 hairbyjamiestevens.co.uk Exclusive offer for Absolutely readers: 50% off a cut & blow-dry with every colour service booked between 1-24 December. (Tues-Fri only between 1-24 Dec for new clients. Not valid with any other offer. Bookings & stylists subject to availability. Please quote 'Absolutely' when booking and offer valid on production of the page.

69 Beauty notes.indd 69

22/11/2013 17:29

ABSOLUTELY | HEALTH & BEAUTY

DIOR SS14

Make up

INSIDER

Arabella Preston on the universal flatterer – gold

G

old is the universal flatterer, adding warmth and sparkle to all skin tones. A hint of molten gold swept over an eyelid or fingernail is the perfect Christmas party accessory and, as it is best kept simple, easy to execute.

The paler your skin, the paler you should keep your gold. This Aerin eyeliner in a soft gilt is startlingly effective dotted around the tear duct and swept under the lower waterline.

It brightens and sparkles in the light and disguises redness and darkness brilliantly.

For a slightly more dramatic look, try one of MAC’s limited edition pigments.

They can be used loose and dry for a soft, blended look, or with a wet brush for a slick of intense colour. Restricted to your eyelids, they stay grown-up yet modern.

It’s on the nails where golds and metallics really come into their own.

Not only do they become miniature accessories in their own right, but metallic formulas tend to bind to the nail more than other colours, making them long-lasting and able to survive the ravages of the party season.

Nail-doyenne and Chanel ambassador, Marian Newman, is in-residence at the Josh Wood Atelier in the run-up to Christmas at the Chanel Nail Pop-up.

She and her team will be tending to west London’s ladies with a full range of manicure and pedicure services. A huge fan of the gold nail, Marian advises: 'For a party look that transitions from day to night, start with a gorgeous shimmering shade, such as Chanel Alchimie and then cover with a quick slick of a gold glitter to transform your nails into ten little jewelled accessories.”

To make an appointment at the Chanel Nail Pop-up call 020 3393 0977.

Josh Wood Atelier, 6 Lansdowne Mews, W11; joshwoodcolour.com

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1. Aerin Cool Gel Eyeliner in Gilt, £24, harrods.com 2. Chanel nail polish in Alchimie, £18, harrods.com 3. Melvita L’Or Bio Huile Lumiere, £29, melvita.co.uk 4. MAC Nocturnals Mini Pigment set, £25.50, maccosmetics.co.uk 5. Aerin lipstick in Sequin, £24, harrods.com 6. Burberry limited edition nail polish in Light Gold, £15, uk.burberry.com 7. Estee Lauder Metallic Trio eye palette in Gilded, £27, esteelauder.co.uk

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22/11/2013 17:30

ABSOLUTELY | PROMOTION

Londons Premier Celebrity Salon Creative Kensington salon Cobella is the place to go for the ultimate designer hairstyle this Christmas THE DESIGNER HAIRCUT

Your experience includes consultation, Shiatsu head massage, conditioner, finishing, instructions on styling and maintaining your look.

COBELLA COLOURING

The Cobella Creative team are renowned for colour techniques, methods of enhancing natural colour and creating new imagery. Using top-of-the-range products, senior colour technicians take meticulous care to create outstanding tones.

THE COBELLA CONDITION AND REPAIR PACKAGE

Cobella is offering its clients a conditioning and peak hair package which will transform any hair type to a healthy and beautiful shine.

SPA AND ESSENTIAL GROOMING

Clients can treat themselves to a session in the Kensington branch's hydrotherapy pool

followed by a refreshing facial or relaxing massage. Cobella also offer essential grooming services including waxing, eyebrow threading, eyelash extensions, spray tans, manicures and pedicures.

HAIR EXTENSIONS

Long hair can be had instantly, and has become a must-have accessory for many Cobella clients. Hair extensions are versatile and give an instant makeover.

They can be used to thicken and lengthen existing hair, or to create beautiful tapestries of colour which are particularly useful for those wishing to experiment with highlights before taking the plunge with permanent colour. Hair extensions come in a range of colours and textures, they are also offered in real hair or synthetic hair. Both look great and each have their benefits which your stylist will discuss with you.

MEN’S GROOMING

Our stylists have expertise in male hair care and grooming and welcome some of London’s top sportsmen and celebrities.

SERVICES The Cobella Creative Team Present

• Premier cutting and styling as approved

by Vogue, Harpers & Queen, Tatler and Cosmopolitan.

• Luxury Shiatsu head massage for every client.

• Friendly, approachable and comfortable surroundings.

0207 937 8888 Cobella, 5 Kensington High Street W8 0207 491 1562 Cobella at Selfridges, Oxford Street W1 (3rd floor)

71 COBELLA_v2.indd 71

22/11/2013 17:31

ABSOLUTELY | PROMOTION

Do you have the motivation to exercise this winter?

Terry Rodham, Group Wellness Manager for The Hogarth and Park Club, gives Absolutely his expert advice on getting fit for life

If you do what you’ve always done, will you always get what you’ve always got?

N

ow there’s food for thought when it comes to many things in life, but lets try to put this into why you aim to include exercise as a regular part of your lifestyle and behaviour.

We all have our very own personal reasons and goals as to why we exercise: health reasons, vanity, weight loss, to tone up, rehabilitation or post surgery, social or time spent with friends, training for an event, charity, stress management, preparing for a holiday, a wedding, to build confidence and self-esteem.

The list is endless but what is very important is the fact that each reason is a personal one and therefore an important one to us all.

Some of you may well be self-motivated and self-sufficient when it comes to exercise being well established as part of your regular behaviour patterns (which is great) but many people out there can and do often struggle with such behaviour with legitimate reason too. A few golden questions that have probably echoed around many of our minds are: I know I need to change but how? If I do change my behaviour can I maintain it?

Can anyone help me change and where do I go for help?

The solution could be Brief Motivational Interviewing (BMI). Brief Motivational Interviewing is a well-researched and developed method that involves certain strategies and techniques that help people work through ambivalence about behaviour change. It helps to identify readiness to change, motivation to change.

Here at The Hogarth and The Park Club we often use Brief Motivational Interviewing during our Wellness consultations, emphasising the importance of sessions being personalised and memberled. Building a professional and trusting

relationship with your personal trainer/ mentor is a vital ingredient to your enjoyment and success at our clubs.

As mentioned, there are many different reasons as to why we use these techniques, but these will certainly be specific towards you as an individual. Some of these methods will involve evoking change talk, exploring importance and motivation, discussing and identifying realistic goals (short and long term), talking through a typical day. Such methods encourage asking open-ended questions which require ‘reflective listening’.

What we have certainly learnt from BMI is that it is how information is presented that affects how it is received. This, believe it or not, is crucial to building success and that trust that I’ve previously mentioned.

When relevant, new information is to be presented in a natural, non-judgemental and

sensitive manner. You (our members) are empowered to make more informed, realistic decisions about your own potential behaviour change.

What I’d like to leave you with is a phrase that I personally believe sums up the DNA’ of The Hogarth and Park Club and our belief and reasons behind BMI being a crucial part of what we do: If you’ve not got a 'why', how can you be committed to a 'how'?

Keep moving.

Terry Rodham For further info, please call The Hogarth Health Club on 020 8994 0500 or The Park Club on 020 8743 4321; thehogarth.co.uk, theparkclub.co.uk

72 ADVERTORIAL HOGARTH.indd 72

22/11/2013 17:32

STRIP.indd 1

21/11/2013 15:21

TEN PILATES.indd 2

20/11/2013 11:48

ABSOLUTELY | HEALTH & BEAUTY

Laser light

RUBY HOWES HAS DISCOVERED THE SECRET OF FAT REDUCTION: STRAWBERRY LASER LIPO. SHE REVEALS ALL TO ABSOLUTELY

What does the treatment feel like?

It is a completely pain-free 20 minute treatment. Most clients don’t realise I have even switched the treatment on.

We place laser paddles on the areas you want to treat and once the machine is switched on, there is initially very little or no sensation at all. After a few minutes, the paddles start to warm up and eventually it will feel like you have a hot water bottle resting on you. 40 years ago this technology used to be used for healing purposes, and most clients comment on it being a very comforting and relaxing treatment. Often a chance to enjoy a little power snooze amidst their busy lifestyles. We’re based in a beautiful boutique spa so that clients can also enjoy luxury surroundings and facilities to make their experience feel invigorating as well as peaceful.

So what is Strawberry laser lipo?

Strawberry Laser Lipo is an FDAapproved, state-of-the-art technology that uses low level laser to target fat, resulting in permanent inch-loss and body contouring after each treatment.

The process is completely noninvasive, so no incisions or needles, which makes this a fantastic nonsurgical option to traditional lipo.

Treatments are painless, results are instant and a course of eight can typically shrink you into at least one dress size smaller.

How did you discover it?

After developing PCOS, which caused me to gain over two stone, I was advised by my specialist to look for new ways to support my weight loss journey.

Quite frankly, I didn’t know where to start, there were just so many diets, fitness programmes and treatments available, all of which had the label of inch-loss and fat reduction, and of course all claiming to achieve the best results. So I started a long and rather expensive journey of trying them all out. It literally took me years but eventually I tried a course of Strawberry Laser Lipo and was blown away by the results!

I felt so passionate about having found something that really worked that I decided to quit my jet-setting life in marketing, to build something that could really help others achieve their body goals. And so LOVVIT was born!

How impressive are the results?

There’s one demand I ask of my clients during their Strawberry Laser Lipo

courses, and that’s commitment. Those that take it seriously and commit have had absolutely phenomenal results. Just yesterday I measured one of my clients who had completed her 8th and final treatment of her course. In a space of a month, she had lost 2 dress sizes, 12 pounds and 12 inches across her entire tummy and love handles area. Needless to say she is looking incredible and feeling on top of the world.

Sometimes my clients just can’t believe that they could lose so much in just 20 minutes of treatment time. Before and after shots are always a good highlight, when clients realize their body is significantly trimmer.

How long-term are the results?

Results are truly permanent, as long as you maintain your weight and have a balanced, healthy lifestyle. Naturally, if you over-indulge and consume to gain weight, then it’s completely counter productive. this comes back to my demand for commitment.

Everyone’s body is different, and how you treat it can affect your overall results.

Yet it’s often the impressive results that encourages and motivates clients to stay disciplined with the rest of their dietary and physical lifestyle. That, and the fact I’m slightly military to ensure all my clients keep on track! lovvit.co.uk is based at Adamina Spa, 276-280 Kensington High Street W8 Treatments from £75

75 Laser Lipo.indd 75

22/11/2013 17:52

ABSOLUTELY | PROMOTION

The W10 way W10 Performance is set to move to an impressive new space. Absolutely has a preview:

T

he success of the W10 system means that the team will be moving to a bigger and better facility on 3 January 2014. The new gym will arguably be the most impressive independent gym of its kind in the UK, and the all-new W10 Foundations Membership is a great introduction to why training here is different to other gyms.

When you become a Hub member you get access to more than 30 small group sessions a week that are overseen by one of the coaching team, which means you will be constructively pushed to reach your full potential. Unlike bog-standard bootcamp experiences, where classes are thrown together, each session focuses on a specific aspect of fitness so you develop the skills you need to make rapid progress.

The W10 Foundations Membership covers the following three main areas plus extra elements for a complete fitness package.

REGENERATION AND RECONDITIONING

These sessions focus on developing better movement – one of the most important and often ignored aspects of training. When you move better you’ll get faster results and reduce your risk of injury. You may do some foam rolling, flexibility work, mobility drills and bodyweight exericses. The aim is to concentrate on quality and building a foundation, although if you think it’ll be easy you’re in for a surprise. The key areas we focus on are the thoracic spine (upper back), shoulders, hips, knees and ankles.

MOVEMENT FUNDAMENTALS

These sessions concentrate on helping you master key exercises that will form the foundation of our group training programme.

The session will focus on our core movements: squat, push, pull, hinge, carry, single leg work and core conditioning. After a five-minute warm up you’ll spend about ten minutes on two or three of these moves with the focus on technique rather than load. The session will finish with a challenging metabolic circuit incorporating these exercises.

ENERGY SYSTEM DEVELOPMENT

These sessions are designed to develop your ability to work for both short, intense bursts and for longer sustained periods. They’ll also improve your skill and coordination. Some sessions will focus on anaerobic fitness (the intense stuff ) while others will be about aerobic work (the longer, slower stuff ). It will also include elements that will improve your neuromuscular adaption, such as running, jumping, changing direction and lifting.

Another feature that’s unique to W10 is the Lecture Club. This is your chance to understand why you train the way you do, rather than just how to train, and it will help you progress even faster. The club will regularly host leading industry figures in the fields of nutrition, exercise and functional medicine and run special clinics on key aspects of training. It’s this caliber of expert and attention to detail that sets W10 Performance apart from the rest.

W10 is now offering preopening memberships. Sign up now for just £18.95 per week. This promotional offer is available to the first 75 new members only (valid for the duration of your membership)

W10performancegym.com New base: 202-208 Kensal Road W10 020 3489 5428

76 ADVERTORIAL W10.indd 76

22/11/2013 17:35

| HEA | LTH A ND BEAUT Y ABSOLUTELY ABSOLUTELY XXXXXXXXX

Club culture NEW MEMBERS CLUB WAKEMAN ROAD IS A WHOLE NEW TYPE OF CLUB. ABSOLUTELY VISITS Not that you’d really notice it in passing, but residential Wakeman Road in Kensal Green is home to a discreet new members club, simply called Wakeman Road. This is no exclusive drinking den though. Quite the opposite. It is a space dedicated to holistic health, a large and stylish building with a communal area as well as several attractive treatment rooms and a kitchen. There’s no pool, gym or bar, but there are juice drinks and like-minded people pursuing health in mind and body.

Members can hire the space for events and parties, and a programme of health-related talks and events is planned.

It works like this: you are invited to become a member, and then your monthly fee is redeemable against treatments. There are nutritionists, naturopaths and a private GP as well as facials, massages, Reiki and acupuncture. And you can have a pedicure and a make up lesson too. The famous Annee de Mamiel facial is a highlight, as are the consultations that promise to find the right

method to get you and your body back on track.

Behind this are business partners and long-term friends Emma Sinclair and Richard Lamballe. Richard bought the building many years ago when it was a derelict shower curtain factory and based his successful PR business here. Emma is a serial entrepreneur (one of her claims to fame is that she was the youngest person ever to float a company on the stock market) and although her main current business is a car park operation, her personal interest in alternative health has led her to seek out the best practitioners in a wide range of therapies. She’s almost evangelical in her enthusiasm for everyone involved, and her straight-talking, no nonsense manner is persuasive. Through her Wonder Woman columns for the Telegraph, Emma collects a wide range of businesses with a difference and she's keen to promote the things she loves at Wakeman Road. So there’s a retail space curated by her, full of products with a story, many of them artisan pieces made with love, or businesses with health at their heart.

Wakeman Road promises to be a ‘haven’, a health and wellbeing space and somewhere to discover new things.

4 Wakeman Road NW10 020 8964 6740 wakemanroad.co.uk

REFLEXOLOGY at WAKEMAN ROAD Based on the principle that each part of the body is reflected in parts of the foot, reflexology is a precise massage art that targets problem areas and relieves stress and pain by balancing the nervous system. Wakeman Road’s resident reflexologist Sophie Robinson trained in the therapy after people kept telling her that she had ‘healing hands’ and her soft but strong massage style is confident. She detects a stiffness in my shoulder through massaging my foot and leaves me feeling relaxed and at ease.

Reflexology with Sophie Robinson costs £65/£85 for 60/90 minutes at Wakeman Road.

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22/11/2013 16:59

ABSOLUTELY | FOOD & TR AV EL

Food NOTES ABSOLUTELY THE BEST EDIBLES IN TOWN

KIT OUT Just launched is the Recipe Kit, an exciting new delivery service that can help even the most inexperienced chef serve up restaurant-standard food. Founded by Olia Hercules, who trained at Leith’s and worked at Ottolenghi, the idea is simple: choose three recipes from a small but perfectly formed selection, and all the ingredients, in measured quantities, will be delivered to your door the following Wednesday evening. Our sample box was designed to feed four and portions were generous; ingredients were very high class (particularly the meat) instructions were clear and easy and the resulting burritos were delicious, as were our lamb chops and spelt risotto with girolles. Everything’s included, down to miniature sachets of spices, and for Christmas the menu includes a tempting Disaronno-soaked fig and mascarpone trifle with honeycomb, plus an irresistible mackrel pate. Try it. therecipekit.co.uk

FINEST FIZZ Give someone a personalized bottle of the finest fizz for Christmas. Newly launched champagne company Finest Fizz offers some of the best premier cru and grand cru independent champagnes from France.

Sourced from small artisan producers across the region, the team have selected some of the most sumptuous bubbly around, available exclusively from them at extremely reasonable prices.

And they will personalise bottles with messages or images too. inestfizz.biz

THE PLACE ON THE HILL

BOWLED OVER Christmas parties at All Star Lanes in Bayswater promise to be a riot of cocktails and bowling. Book the private room and parties of up to 80 can enjoy unlimited bowling all night, fuelled by White Russians (or your cocktail of choice) and Christmas canapés. There’s a private bar as well as a huge screen for karaoke and a good time is guaranteed for all. allstarlanes.co.uk

Christmas cocktails The Royal Garden Hotel’s Boss Behind the Bar Christmas party package includes cocktail lessons from the hotel’s top mixologists, followed by a three course festive feast with all the trimmings as well as the obligatory party hats and crackers.

The package costs £59 per head and is available until 23 December.

Royal Garden Hotel, 2-24 Kensington High St, W8 020 7937 8000, royalgardenhotel.co.uk

W9’s new food hub Maida Hill Place is a multi-purpose space, a kitchen for hire, a café/gallery, a film location and a pop-up restaurant.

There’s also a ‘Kitchen Incubator’ enterprise scheme to nurture and support business start-ups in the food and beverage industry.

Top US Chef Laurent Quenioux hosted a very posh pop-up recently, and it’s also an easy place for someone to test a business idea without the usual investment in overheads. It’s a creative new space that’s definitely worth a look.

2-4 Fernhead Road W9; 020 8964 2549 maidahillplace.co.uk

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FOOD REVIEW

ABSOLUTELY | FOOD & TR AV EL

the

GOLBORNE DELI 100 Golborne Road W10, 020 8969 6907, golbornedeli.com

t the Golborne Deli, there’s an informal, neighbourhood feel that’s partly to do with the shared tables. Though it did take the people of Golborne Road a while to get used to that. Owner Aleksandar Loncar opened his doors almost three years ago and his winning menu of simple, Mediterranean-inspired food made from fresh ingredients offers everything that people want to eat.

There’s breakfast daily from 7.30am, with the best-selling Full Deli breakfast guaranteeing a good start to the day, and then a full range of sandwiches, salads and a few hot dishes to take things through to tea time, when a wide array of cakes take centre stage. Italian coffee is excellent and prettily served in numerous variations including a decadent ice mocha.

On our recent visit, warming options included Hungarian goulash soup as well as beef lasagna (the Golborne lasagna is famed around these parts) and a vegetarian spinach and chickpea soup. The menu’s big on gluten-free options, not just bread and cakes, but lots of things highlighted, and a new superfood salad of quinoa, lentils and leaves has arrived in response to popular demand.

It may have taken people about six months to get people used to the idea of communal tables, but now it’s ingrained and the community feel of the place continues with lots of work by local artists on the walls – much

of it for sale, like a small gallery.

‘Everything is how I like it. I want it to feel like a home,’ says Loncar, who has plans to open a restaurant locally soon, where he can have a bigger kitchen and offer dinner.

Throughout December, the deli will be decked out with hundreds of miniature pannettones and decorations, so treat yourself to a slap up daytime feast.

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ABSOLUTELY | PROMOTION

Festive food

Highlights of the seasonal menus

LE PAIN QUOTIDIEN

Everybody loves brunch. A bit of breakfast, a bit of lunch. So Le Pain Quotidien have created the perfect combination of decadent pastries, wholesome savouries, organic hot drinks and fresh pressed juices. For a little indulgence, why not start with a glass of organic Prosecco or a Mimosa? It is the holiday season after all.

Tweet @LPQUK #absolutelybrunch and they will send you a VIP code for a free Prosecco or Mimosa with any brunch.

Participating locations are LPQ Notting Hill, LPQ Kendal Street, LPQ Young Street and LPQ Kings Road.

THE TRUSCOTT ARMS

THE ROYAL GARDEN HOTEL

Rated by the Evening Standard as one of the Top Ten places in London to eat, The Truscott Arms provides an all round nourishment of the soul as much as the body. The menu offers a vibrant and seasonal selection of British food, that will delight the senses. Book your Christmas party now!

The Truscott Arms, 55 Shirland Road, W9 2JD 020 7266 9198, thetruscottarms.com, facebook.com/thetruscottarms, @thetruscottarms

For a truly magical Christmas or New Year, join the team at the Royal Garden Hotel for exquisite dining, an elegant setting and a lively atmosphere. Whether you choose one of the finedining restaurants for a private affair or a banqueting suite for a private party, they will take the utmost care to ensure you have a thoroughly enjoyable time this festive season.

To make a reservation, call 020 7361 1999 or email christmas@royalgardenhotel.co.uk, royalgardenhotel.co.uk/christmas

LA CONDA

Locanda Ottoemezzo opened in July 2002 by passionate and enthusiastic friends. With love of Italian cinema and 'La Buona Cucina', the finest and exquisite Italian cuisine. The informal, cool and cosy atmosphere will seduce you with the chef's creations, all of them a joy for your eyes and plate accompanied by a superb and entertaining wine list. You are sure to enjoy the experience.

2-4 Thackeray Street, off Kensington Square, W8 5ET

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URBAN MEADOW WELCOME TO URBAN MEADOW CAFE & BAR, FRESH BRITISH DINING BESIDE THE ICONIC LOCATION OF LONDON’S HYDE PARK.

OPENING TIMES: MONDAY - FRIDAY 6:30 - 23:00 // SATURDAY 7:30 - 23:00 // SUNDAY 7:30 - 22:30 //BAR OPEN UNTIL MIDNIGHT// TAKING CHRISTMAS BOOKINGS …OPEN CHRISTMAS DAY 150 BAYSWATER LONDON . W2 4RT TRANSPORT QUEENSWAY 5 MINUTES WALK // NOTTING HILL GATE 5 MINUTES WALK eat@urbanmeadowcafe.com // 020 7792 7066

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ABSOLUTELY | FOOD & TRAVEL

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ABSOLUTELY | FOOD & TR AV EL

Teenagers are tricky customers, but the Swiss resort of Laax might just be the answer says Georgie Lane-Godfrey

A

s I carefully pick my way down the sheer face of a monstrous mountain masquerading as a black run, a blur of neon whooshes past me. What appears to be a medieval jester on skis is in hot pursuit.

Apparently itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not vertigoinduced lunacy but just another morning on the slopes of Laax, the very coolest of the ski resort in GraubĂźnden, Switzerland.

Having recently undergone a reinvention to become the freestyle capital of Europe, Laax is now full of neon-clad, powder-junkie, youthful energy.

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You probably won’t have heard of it. The region of Flims–Laax is still relatively unknown, despite its reputation for being one of the most snow sure destinations in the Alps. At just 1hour 40minutes from Zurich, it’s close enough to make child-laden transfers bearable, yet slopes are surprisingly uncrowded.

Plus with an almost perfect split between the levels of difficulty of the pistes, it’s a practical choice for families with varying levels of ability amongst them. When we visited in January, conditions were perfect and the slopes were all but deserted – a skier’s dream. But then, it’s not just the weather here that’s appealing; Laax boasts the largest halfpipe in Europe and snowparks to occupy avid snowboarders and skiers for days, so much so that the annual Burton European Open snowboarding championship is held here.

We travelled with luxury holiday company Powder Byrne, who seem to have nailed the art of making family ski holidays enjoyable for all involved. Focussing on the idea of ‘bespoke experiences’, they’re very good at taking the stress out of skiing: personal travel consultants, private transfers (and flights, should you wish it) and a complementary ski guiding service for the duration of your stay too. This service is not just for the grown-ups; the Freezone Ski Guiding is specifically for teens who want to ski with friends but still need, ahem, adult supervision. These guides will take you down the best runs for the conditions, avoid those annoying bottlenecks and secure the best tables for lunch. They also happen to mainly be made up of rather handsome men in their early twenties, which is guaranteed to put a smile on your teenage daughter’s face…

Meanwhile, PB’s Yeti Club can keep pesky younger siblings entertained.

Divided up into different programmes depending on age group, the club organises skiing during the day and activities in the evenings – from painting and sing-alongs for tots to bowling and ice-skating for tweens ¬– so that parents can ski in peace.

Alongside these programmes run more advanced ski courses such as the Freestyle Course, which teaches how to ride the half pipe, parks and rails, and develops technique for the snow park and freeskiing. Perfect for daredevil teens, classes take place both out on the slopes and in the Freestyle Academy at Laax Base Station. The Academy is Europe’s first indoor freestyle hall, and is filled with trampolines and squidgy foam

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ABSOLUTELY | FOOD & TR AV EL pits to let pupils practise big air tricks and jumps in safety before hitting the dedicated Fun Park on Crap Sogn Gion. Crap, incidentally, means rock in Romansh, one of the four national languages of Switzerland, and the local ‘Crap Bar’ in Laax will solicit a snigger out of even the most moody of teens.

Further adding to Laax’s cool credentials is the resident Porsche chair lift. A sleek black beauty and world first, it swivels to take you up the mountainside to Crap Masegn at a civilised 45 degree angle, allowing you to enjoy views of the Alps rather than the woman in far too tight salopettes in front of you. It also boasts solar-powered heating, making it one of the few ‘green’ ski lifts in the world, (alongside one powered by cow dung in Vermont, naturally). In fact, the whole resort shares the same sleek, design-led feel as the chair lift, from the award-winning rockresort accommodation to the loos at the Rock Bar on Crap Sogn Gion, where the one-way glass lets you admire the Alps and skiers walking past without them being able to see you.

Whilst teens might love Laax, parents with more classical tastes will feel at home in adjoining Flims. Sat at the end of a sweeping tree-lined drive, the Waldhaus Flims Mountain Resort & Spa sits on its own private estate bordering the village. Built at the turn of the 19th century, the hotel still maintains much of the grandeur of the era and is brimming with character.

It’s an eccentric kind of place – there’s a dedicated hotel museum – and although some of the décor might be a little dated, it’s all part of the Waldhaus charm. The real draw though is the spa. With six saunas, a floating suite, a huge gym, an indoor swimming pool and an enormous

LAAX IS FULL OF NEONCLAD, POWDERJUNKIE, YOUTHFUL ENERGY

range of beauty treatments, it’s a real beast of a place ¬– which is just as well since the heated outdoor massage pool’s views across the mountains really draw in the visitors. Lazing amongst the bubbles as the steam blurs the alpine scenery, it really is the most fantastic way to soothe sore muscles after a long day of skiing.

But if your muscles aren’t sore and the 220km of skiable terrain isn’t enough for you, it’s only just over an hour’s drive to Lenzerheide, a lesserknown resort popular with those looking for something off the beaten British-tourist track. Lenzerheide feels like something out of the 80s, filled with battered T-bar lifts and Germans in dodgy multi-coloured onesies, yet if you look past this you’ll find a relatively undiscovered gem which is set to be Switzerland’s hot new ski destination.

This is thanks to a new ski lift that is set to open in 2014 linking Lenzerheide to its slicker neighbour, Arosa. Filled

with wide, cruisey runs and fantastic hotels – the stunning Tshuggen Grand Hotel with its Michelin-starred restaurant and world-class spa being a prime example – it’s no wonder that Arosa got the royal seal of approval (Prince William was spotted skiing there earlier this year).

Of course, that’s all great to know, but you’ll most likely have a hard time dragging your teens away from Laax for the day. Or home for that matter.

Good luck with that.

SWISS offers up to 19 daily flights from London Heathrow, London City, Birmingham and Manchester to Zurich. Fares start from £122 return, including all airport taxes.

(Terms and conditions apply.) For reservations call 0845 601 0956 or visit swiss.com Prices from £2,787 per adult for 7 nights from 15th February 2014 or £2,562 per adult for 7 nights from 29th March 2014 for a Comfort Twin room at Waldhaus Flims Mountain Resort & Spa, Flims, Switzerland on B&B basis. Prices includes flights, return private transfers and full Powder Byrne service; powderbyrne.com

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ABSOLUTELY | TR AV EL

Barsham Barns A LUXURY RETREAT IN NORTH NORFOLK

BY PENDLE HARTE

THE BARN We arrive in the dark, down winding country lanes into what seems like the middle of nowhere. But we’re not lost – our printed directions are flawless and someone has left the gate open for us. Once inside, lights on, we are impressed. There are seven luxury barns on this site and ours is Long Meadow, a large and impressive space, all exposed brickwork and stylish Farrow and Ball shades of French greys. There’s a wood burner (readyprepped with paper and kindling) as well as underfloor heating for the full-on cosy experience. If you arrive in the dark, it’s not until you wake up in the morning that you notice the views – huge picture windows reveal vast expanses of fields and sky.

COMFORT En-suite bathrooms all round, more sofas than you need, the wood burner – not for nothing does the barn score top marks for making your visit as comfortable as it is possible to be. The highlight for the children is a mezzanine-level den, an enclosed playspace full of outsize cushions and a television, accessible by a tiny staircase and overlooking the main living area – close enough to hear them, separate enough to not be troubled by them. Bedrooms are comfortable, all with en suite bathrooms, and the children’s room has a vast bunkbed with curtains.

THE DETAILS They’ve thought of everything.

Fancy baking a cake? The wellequipped kitchen includes cake tins, scales, even an electric mixer. With everything you need to feed a party of eight or more, there’s a sense of

generosity here: lots of cutlery, more plates than you could ever need, even ample supplies of dishwasher tablets.

A welcome hamper is filled with goodies from the fantastic nearby farm shop – staples such as bacon, eggs, butter, cheese, bread as well as cake, lavender marmalade and a pint of milk in the fridge. There’s a vase of flowers on the table. Comfort and practicalities are all taken care of.

THE AREA North Norfolk is famed for its sweeping, expansive beaches as well as for its extreme tastefulness.

Everything is impossibly pretty and tidy, from the painted shutters in Burnham Market to the row of colourful beach huts at Holkam, even to the pheasants running wild over the fields. The seafront fish and chip shops and arcades have none of the garishness of most British beach resorts and everyone looks like they’ve stepped out of a Boden catalogue.

Whatever the weather, a walk along the vast stretch of beach near Wells (10 miles from North Barsham) is a must for its sheer scale and sweep.

THE ACTIVITIES On site is a private spa, bookable for hour-long slots and featuring a hot tub and separate steam room.

There’s a games room with a table tennis table and each barn has its own outdoor area with a dining table, barbecue and loungers. You’ll find board games in the cupboard and the full audio-visual works.

Long Meadow sleeps eight in four bedrooms.

Barshambarns.co.uk 01328 821744

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Holland Street W8 £6,350,000 A beautifully presented house offering bright, well proportioned accommodation over five oors, with direct access to a walled communal garden. ccupying a wide plot, the property provides a fabulous kitchen/dining room on the lower oor, a double reception room on the raised ground oor and a magnificent first oor drawing room and library. The generous bedroom accommodation includes a stunning master suite and three further double bedrooms on the top oor, served by a family bathroom. Freehold. Sole Agents.

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Woodsford Square W14 £3,950,000 This beautifully refurbished five-bedroom family house has been extended to approximately 3,000 sqft. Finished to the highest of standards, the accommodation includes a magnificent 36ft reception room as well as a large media/cinema room and enjoys wonderful views over communal gardens and Holland Park. Located moments from a wealth of excellent local amenities on Holland Park Avenue, Kensington High Street and Notting Hill. Freehold. EPC=C. Joint Sole Agent.

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Westbourne Terrace W2 ÂŁ1,895,000 A stunning two-bedroom top floor duplex apartment located within a grand stucco fronted Victorian terrace, moments from Hyde Park. Arranged over two floors, this fantastic property offers an open plan kitchen/dining room, a large master bedroom with a beautifully finished en suite bathroom, a second double bedroom and a bathroom. The upper floor features additional, exceptional entertaining space with access to a private terrace. Share of Freehold. Sole Agents.

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Cambridge Gardens W10 ÂŁ1,395,000 This charming, south facing maisonette is beautifully presented, boasting excellent lateral entertaining space and superb natural light throughout. The accommodation comprises an impressive reception room, a separate kitchen/dining room, three double bedrooms and two bathrooms. Cambridge Gardens is a sought after residential street located moments from the bustle of Ladbroke Grove and Portobello Road. Share of Freehold. EPC=E. Sole Agents.

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20/11/2013 17:01

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

St Jamesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gardens W11 ÂŁ1,600 per week A beautiful maisonette, offering light, stylish design and generous space. Positioned in the heart of Holland Park, this property is immaculately nished throughout, comprising two double bedrooms, two bathrooms, a large kitchen and a reception room. The property bene ts from access to the garden from both oors and is conveniently located for ondon nderground Services at Holland Park Station Central ine .

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

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LETTINGS

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

Alba Place W11 ÂŁ995 per week This exceptional mews house is located at the end of a private, gated mews off Portobello Road. Arranged over three floors, the house offers fantastic reception space with an open-plan kitchen/reception room on the ground floor, a sauna and plunge pool, a further living room and a balcony on the first floor. The second bedroom or study is located on the same level, and at the top of the house is a master suite leading out to a private terrace. EPC=D. NORTH KENSINGTON: 020 7313 8350 lets.nkn@marshandparsons.co.uk

Carlyle Mansions W8 ÂŁ550 per week A stylish and immaculately refurbished two-bedroom flat, ideally located for the amenities of Notting Hill and Kensington Church Street. Finished to an exacting standard, this beautifully presented property offers contemporary living space comprising a modern, open plan kitchen and reception/dining room with solid wood floors, two equally sized double bedrooms and a modern bathroom. EPC=D KENSINGTON: 020 7368 4450 lets.kns@marshandparsons.co.uk

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ABSOLUTELY Property

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

1

Why should I use a property management agent?

I

n one phrase: for peace of mind. Marsh & Parsons provides a dedicated, experienced property manager, who will deal with any issues relating to the tenancy as well as the demands of a tenant. This service is not just within office hours, a 24/7 helpline for emergencies is provided, whenever they may occur. The property manager will deal with all aspects of the tenancy, from a pre-tenancy inspection to the day-to-day management and ongoing safety checks. Our Inspections Clerks will regularly ‘inspect’ the property to provide our landlords with peace of mind that their property is being well looked after.

3 D

o your research the same way you would if you were looking – mostly via online portals these days – and see what else is available at a similar price. Agree on the type of tenant you are looking to attract – is it a couple, family or sharers? Then ask your letting agent for advice on how to target that market. Pricing your property correctly is imperative. You shouldn’t be swayed by unrealistic valuations; instead ask for recent comparables to support the suggested valuation and think about what you could offer to make your home more appealing than others available. This could be anything from a reduction in rental price if the tenant guarantees a longer contract, or a new sofa of the new tenant’s choice.

“

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Who is renting in the area?

otting Hill, along with other areas in London, is seeing a huge growth in European residents due to favourable exchange rates and the strong employment market in the capital. At the moment both one bedroom apartments and large houses are seeing increased demand as the market reaches it’s annual peak in late August and early September as families look to settle for the new school term.

How to attract the best tenants?

4 T

5

Best buy-to-let investments?

U

nderstanding your local rental market is crucial to choosing the best performing investment. Always take the time to speak to your local Letting Agent for their advice and opinion before you start your property search. You need to ask, ‘who is renting in your chosen area?

Why are they choosing to rent there? What is your competition? What does the area have to offer?’ Asking these questions will help you to choose an investment that is well suited to your target market, which will in turn minimise void periods. With the rental market becoming more competitive and tenants becoming more demanding, it is crucial to seek advice from the professionals to ensure your investment outperforms the competition.

Agree on the type of tenant you are looking to attract – is it a couple, family or sharers? Then ask your letting agent for advice on how to target that market

Rental yield vs capital growth?

he best rental yields are still naturally coming from the lower end of the market, particularly ex-local authority properties.

However, you will not see the capital growth here that you would in the mid to high end of the market. If you are looking for good capital growth, look for a period conversion, with two or three bedrooms on a good street (such as Pembridge Square or Pembridge Gardens) and be prepared to compromise on your immediate rental yield for the long-term gain.

6 D

“

Furnished or unfurnished?

on’t rule out either! From our experience we find that although some Landlords may have a preference for their property being available ‘Furnished’ or ‘Unfurnished’ they are actually very flexible – especially if it means getting the right tenant. If you find your perfect property with us but the furnishings aren’t as you need them to be – ask the question. We want to make sure we find the best properties for tenants and ensure our landlords are getting the best tenants for their property – so if it means a compromise then nothing is out of the question.

1. Anna Ambrose

2. Ed Woolgar

Area Lettings Director, Marsh & Parsons

Director, Chesterton Humberts

3. Michael Palmer Lettings Manager, KFH

� 020 7313 6910 • marshandparsons.com

� 020 3040 8343 • chestertonhumberts.com

� 020 3282 1550 • kfh.co.uk

4. Sally Livermore

5. Jon Gittins

6. Caroline Phillips

Lettings Manager, Faron Sutaria

Head of Lettings, Carter Jonas

Lettings Manager, Beaney Pearce

� 020 7243 1352 • faronsutaria.co.uk

� 0207 798 1828 • carterjonas.co.uk

� 020 7221 9044 • beaneypearce.co.uk

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SEASON’S GREETINGS

Residential

n

Rural

n

Commercial

n

Planning & Development

To find out how Carter Jonas can help with your property needs, simply get in touch.

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

Knightsbridge & Chelsea 020 7584 7020 knightsbridge@carterjonas.co.uk

Mayfair & St James’s 020 7493 0676 mayfair@carterjonas.co.uk

Hyde Park & Bayswater 020 7402 1552 hydepark@carterjonas.co.uk

Marylebone & Regent’s Park 020 7486 8866 marylebone@carterjonas.co.uk

Bishops Park 020 7731 3333 fulhamsales@sullivanthomas.co.uk

Parsons Green 020 7751 8899 fulhamsales@sullivanthomas.co.uk

Wandsworth Common 020 8767 7711 wandsworthsales@sullivanthomas.co.uk

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Offices throughout the UK

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

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HOLLAND PARK HOLLAND PARK W11 This extraordinary apartment is approximately 5,941 sq ft and has been completely refurbished to the most exacting of standards by the current owner.

6 reception rooms n Kitchen n Master bedroom suite n 5 further bedroom suites, including 1 staff en suite bedroom n Gym n Cinema n Steam room with integrated shower and sound system n Spa n Plant room and large storage n Landscaped private garden enjoying full afternoon sun n Energy efficiency: Band D

PRICE ON APPLICATION THIS PROPERTY AT YOUR FINGERTIPS ON MOBILE OR DESKTOP

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

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SIMPLY VISIT URL:

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Offices throughout the UK

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

Bullet point BAYSWATER

Bulle

PRINCES SQUARE W2 A beautifully refurbished split-level duplex apartment located on the upper floor of this stucco fronted building.

Reception room/kitchen n 2/3 bedrooms Leasehold n Energy efficiency: Band C

GUIDE PRICE ÂŁ2,000,000

n

2 bathrooms

n

Access to communal gardens

THIS PROPERTY AT YOUR FINGERTIPS ON MOBILE OR DESKTOP SIMPLY VISIT

Hyde Park & Bayswater 020 7402 1552 hydepark@carterjonas.co.uk

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Bullet NOTTING point

HILL

PALACE COURT W11 An immaculately presented, bright and very spacious third floor apartment in the heart of Notting Hill.

Reception room n Kitchen n Master bedroom Lift n Energy efficiency: Band D

£650 PER WEEK*/£2,816.67 PER MONTH*

n

Guest bedroom

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Bathroom THIS PROPERTY AT YOUR FINGERTIPS ON MOBILE OR DESKTOP SIMPLY VISIT URL:

Holland Park & Notting Hill 020 7371 3377 laurelin.taylor@carterjonas.co.uk

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*Rent excludes administration fees, for this information visit cjview.me/lonlets

18/11/2013 12:02

IN THEIR OWN

WORDS Lettings Managers at Hamptons International SAM HARRISON: NOTTING HILL & CHLOÉ ELLIS: KENSINGTON Photography: Rebecca Noonan

I

SAM HARRISON

first put on my suit and tie for the big smoke whilst studying for my Surveying Degree at Brighton University on a commercial placement year in the West end. Having grown up up on a beach in Cornwall, I still remember being totally confused with the London tube network. At heart, I’m a self confessed West Londoner – something to do with the manicured parks, architecture, restaurants and most importantly the people.

I’ve worked as an agent in Central London for over five years now and throughout that time I’ve lived and worked solely in West London.

My career started off with a well known London agency in Chiswick, before moving on to Hamptons in Parsons Green and then coming to run our Westbourne Grove office 18 months ago.

Notting Hill was always on my list of places to go and meet my family and friends at the weekend – a wander around the side streets off Portobello, buying snacks from the stalls before turning around to walk down Ladbroke Grove to the Mitre for a couple and then cutting through Holland Park for bit of greenery. These days you’ll see me grabbing lunch from Mr Christians or The Grocer after appointments on my walk back to the office.

Working here is wonderful; the colourful bohemian streets remind me of my university days in Brighton and the garden squares keep the secret communities wholesomely private and protected. What’s been nice for me as a local agent is to build relationships with Landlords, whereas with sales you might sell to a purchaser and then not meet them again, in lettings you get to follow and charter peoples’ stories every 12 months.

We’ve grown our business from our humble Westbourne Grove office by over 150% in the last 12 months, not a mean feat I can tell you!

020 7034 0405

|

CHLOÉ ELLIS

I

always wanted to be a fashion designer… and how differently things have turned out! Working in property, however, I do get to immerse myself in beautiful design on a day-to-day basis. I went to Leeds university and did business management, it was a great city and I loved my course; it taught me a lot that’s has helped me in my career at Hamptons. When I came straight out of university that July I gravitated back to London – where I had grown up – and started at Hamptons in September as an administrator as I wanted to get into the property industry.

6 years later I am the lettings manager in Kensington!

I started in St Johns wood as the admin, then 18 months later moved to Kensington and became a negotiator. I then returned to St Johns Wood, progressing to manager. After 2 more years and maternity leave of 7 months, I’m back in Kensington as lettings manager. I love being back in Kensington; it feels like I am back home.

There are so many beautiful properties that have been finished to such high standards, which makes my job so enjoyable. We have some great clients who I have built strong relationships with, so much so that there are some that I am dealing with who I worked with when I was negotiating deals for them when I was a negotiator here 3 years ago!

I love the shops, the restaurants, and beautiful parks here in Kensington. The people here are very friendly and the social make up is an interesting mix. One of my favourite parts of the job is meeting people who are unfamiliar with the area and introducing them to its fantastic lifestyle. I’m looking forward to forging new relationships here for many years to come.

020 7937 9372

|

hamptons.co.uk

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ABSOLUTELY Property

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facebook.com/struttandparker twitter.com/struttandparker

struttandparker.com

Bedford Gardens, Kensington W8

A fabulous five bedroom house with a wonderful 54 ft south facing garden.

Price on Application Freehold

2,776 sq ft (257.9 sq m) Drawing room | Kitchen | Dining area | Family area | Five bedrooms | Three bath/shower rooms | Cloakroom | Garden

Kensington 020 7938 3666

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Abingdon Road, Kensington W8

An outstanding and beautifully presented four bedroom family house with excellent entertaining space.

ÂŁ5,250,000 Freehold

2,924 sq ft (271.64 sq m) Drawing room | Kitchen/family room | Four bedrooms | Three bathrooms | Study | Media room | Terrace | Garden I EPC Rating D

Kensington 020 7938 3666

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facebook.com/struttandparker twitter.com/struttandparker

struttandparker.com

Campden House, Kensington W8

A stunning spacious first floor flat, presented to the highest standard set within a Victorian building in Kensington.

£1,695 per week* Furnished

1,321 sq ft (123 sq m) Reception room | Kitchen | Two bedrooms | Two bathrooms | Lift | Communal gardens I EPC rating: C

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

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

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Lansdowne Road, Notting Hill W11

A beautiful stucco fronted family house with a private south facing garden situated on one of the most sought after addresses in Notting Hill.

£4,500 per week*

3,009 sq ft (280 sq m) Drawing room| Library | Kitchen/breakfast room | Dining room |Master bedroom suite | Five further bedrooms | Two bathrooms | Utility room | Garden | Access to communal gardens | EPC rating: E

Notting Hill Lettings 020 7221 1111 nottinghill.lettings@struttandparker.com *The following Tennant charges may apply prior to tennancy commencement: Tenancy Agreement £210 (inc VAT) Credit References per application £54 (inc VAT). All advertised prices are excluded and other associated services.

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You may know us from walking your dog, local charity events or simply recognise a familiar face.

Because many of our agents live where they work, they really understand what matters to buyers and sellers there. And because people know us, time and again we are able to sell and let properties more quickly and more profitably than anyone else.

KE ITH RI GBY D I R EC TO R

Keith has been a Director at our Ladbroke Grove office for over 16 years, and lived here almost as long. He’s also something of a trailblazer for gender equality – becoming the first ever male class rep at his children’s prep school. Many of our clients know him first as a fellow parent and neighbour, meaning he’s as likely to sell a house at the school gates as he is from his desk.

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

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Design Classic K E N S I N GTO N PA R K R OA D N O T T I N G H I L L W 1 1

A magnificent family house offering exceptional space and design in a central Notting Hill location. Having been completely overhauled and architecturally redesigned, this impressive property now offers a mouth watering blend of period and contemporary styles which work in harmony to create a haven of spacious and bright family living.

4 B E D R O O M S , 2 B AT H R O O M S ( 1 E N S U I T E ) , E N S U I T E S H OW E R R O O M , C LOA K R O O M , R E C E P T I O N R O O M , M E D I A / F A M I LY R O O M , K I T C H E N / D I N I N G R O O M , 2 B A L C O N I E S , F R O N T A N D R E A R G A R D E N , S E L F CO NTA I N E D N A N N Y S U ITE .

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FREEHOLD ÂŁ6,000,000 BOB CROWLEY BC@BECTIVE.CO.UK NOTTING HILL OFFICE 020 7221 4805

287 SQ M / 3 ,0 94 SQ FT APPROX E N E R GY R AT I N G B

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Regency Splendor A D D I S O N AV E N U E H O L L A N D PA R K W 1 1

A stunning Regency Style semi-detached family house with large garden in this premier Holland Park location. The property offers exceptional entertaining space including an expansive open plan living/dining area leading to a charming patio and garden. The drawing room offers high ceilings, floor to ceiling windows with shutters, hardwood floors, a feature fireplace and French windows.

5 B E D R O O M S , 2 E N S U I T E B AT H R O O M S , 2 C LOA K R O O M S , 2 W E T R O O M S , D R AW I N G R O O M , S I T T I N G R O O M , D I N I N G R O O M , K I TC H E N , L AU N D RY R O O M , PAT I O, T E R R AC E , F R O N T A N D R E A R GA R D E N .

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F R E E H O L D ÂŁ 7, 5 0 0 , 0 0 0 BOB CROWLEY BC@BECTIVE.CO.UK NOTTING HILL OFFICE 020 7221 4805

2 42 S Q M / 2 , 6 0 0 S Q F T I N C LU D I N G E AV E S S TO R AG E E N E R GY R AT I N G F

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Contemporary Living DUNWORTH MEWS NOTTING HILL W11

An exceptionally stylish architect designed house offering contemporary living in a vibrant location. The property benefits from a wonderful first floor open plan entertaining area, flexible bedroom accommodation and tremendous storage space. The house can be configured as either a three bedroom property or a two bedroom with self contained ground floor unit.

3 B E D R O O M S , E N S U I T E S H OW E R R O O M , B AT H R O O M , O P E N P L A N R E C E P T I O N R O O M / K I TC H E N , CLOAKROOM , CELLAR .

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FREEHOLD ÂŁ1,850,000 BOB CROWLEY BC@BECTIVE.CO.UK NOTTING HILL OFFICE 020 7221 4805

12 9 SQ M / 1 , 3 85 SQ FT APPROX E N E R GY R AT I N G D J S A L U R O T B R A N D 0 2 0 747 9 1 9 9 9

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Classic Family House NEWTON ROAD NOTTING HILL W2

This impressive low build period house has everything one could ever want in a family home; spacious entertaining rooms, big family kitchen, dining room and plenty of bedrooms and bathrooms all spread over only three light-filled floors with lovely private garden, garage and off street parking for up to three cars.

6 B E D R O O M S , 2 B AT H R O O M S , S H OW E R R O O M , 2 R E C E P T I O N R O O M S , K I TC H E N , D I N I N G R O O M , 2 S T U D I E S , U T I L I T Y R O O M , GA R AG E , F R O N T A N D R E A R GA R D E N S , O F F S T R E E T PA R K I N G .

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FREEHOLD ÂŁ5,000,000 BOB CROWLEY BC@BECTIVE.CO.UK NOTTING HILL OFFICE 020 7221 4805

255 SQ M / 2 ,755 SQ FT APPROX E N E R GY R AT I N G E

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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

A stunning, luxurious and contemporary town house located in a beautiful and tranquil corner of North Kensington. Built to an exceptional standard, this property has been meticulously designed by boutique property developer Taylor Wimpey Central London. The properties boast flexible accommodation over four floors and benefit from fabulous views across Kensington Memorial Park from the terraces.

5 B E D R O O M S , 4 B A T H R O O M S ( 1 E N S U I T E ) , 2 R E C E P T I O N R O O M S , K I T C H E N , S T U D Y/ P L AY R O O M , U T I L I T Y R O O M , D R E S S I N G R O O M , C O U R T YA R D , 2 T E R R A C E S , G A R D E N , U N D E R G R O U N D P A R K I N G .

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FREEHOLD POA M AT T H E W M A R C H A N T MM@BECTIVE.CO.UK LADBROKE GROVE OFFICE 020 7221 0330

22 0 SQ M / 2 , 373 SQ FT APPROX

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Once in a Lifetime BLENHEIM CRESCENT NOTTING HILL W11

A beautifully designed and spacious family house in the heart of Notting Hill. Light floods into this broad Victorian terraced house emphasising the high ceilings and elegant details.

Blenheim Crescent is a tree lined street off Ladbroke Grove, close to Portobello, Westbourne Grove and Notting Hill.

4 D O U B L E B E D R O O M S , 2 B AT H R O O M S ( 1 E N S U I T E ) , S H OW E R R O O M , 2 C LOA K R O O M S , D O U B L E R E C E P T I O N R O O M , O P E N P L A N K I T C H E N / D I N I N G R O O M , S T U DY, U T I L I T Y R O O M , W I N E S T O R E , PAT I O , 2 T E R R A C E S , B A L C O N Y.

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FREEHOLD ÂŁ4,800,000 M AT T H E W M A R C H A N T MM@BECTIVE.CO.UK LADBROKE GROVE OFFICE 020 7221 0330

3 02 SQ M / 3, 251 SQ FT APPROX E N E R GY R AT I N G F

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Outside Living PORTOBELLO ROAD NOTTING HILL W11

FURNISHED £1 ,20 0 PER WEEK

A newly refurbished maisonette laid out over three floors. The property has been finished to an exacting standard and offers hard wood flooring in the reception room and bedrooms and further benefits from a large decked terrace ideal for entertaining. 3 bedrooms, en suite bathroom, 2 en suite shower rooms, reception room, kitchen, utility room, roof terrace. Energy Rating C.

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

Outstanding Location PA L AC E CO U R T N OT T I N G H I L L W 2

F U R N I S H E D/ U N F U R N £ 1 , 0 5 0 P E R W E E K

A split level flat in this beautiful building set back from the road, in a private gated development with off street allocated parking. The property boasts a beautiful reception with high ceilings and original features. 2 bedrooms, en suite bathroom, en suite shower room, reception room, kitchen, allocated off street parking, porter. EPC Rating G.

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

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Period Perfection ST MARKS PL ACE NOTTING HILL W11

FURNISHED/UNFURN £9 95 PER WEEK

A rare opportunity to let this immaculate homeowners duplex flat on the upper floors of this period conversion. The property has been refurbished to an exceptionally high standard, with special attention to detail and boasts an extremely large roof terrace ideal for entertaining. 2 bedrooms, bathroom, reception room, kitchen, cloakroom/utility room, roof terrace. EPC Rating D.

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

Contemporary Design

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ALEXANDER STREET NOTTING HILL W2

UNFURNISHED £895 PER WEEK

A beautifully presented duplex apartment on the upper floors of this impressive period conversion.

The property benefits from an abundance of natural light, hard wood flooring in the reception room and a spacious roof terrace ideal for entertaining. 3 bedrooms, bathroom, en suite shower room, reception room, kitchen, roof terrace. Energy Rating D.

K A T E F LY N N

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

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ABSOLUTELY Property

Property News

5

minutes with...

Rollo Miles

Manager of John D Wood & Co. Ladbroke Grove

� 020 7229 2356 • johndwood.co.uk

Leinster Square, W2

HOUSE HUNTING 1. Property I most like on my books and why?

The property I’d most like to have on my books is a two-bedroom, first floor apartment on Stanley Crescent. It’s a prime W11 address with access to communal gardens, and I know it would attract phenomenal interest.

2. Best place to invest and why?

Bayswater and Paddington. This is due to the completion of the Lancaster’s, which set a new, premium benchmark for property prices in the area, the introduction of Crossrail to Paddington and the anticipated Queensway rejuvenation, which will give the area a real boost.

3. The most interesting property I have been involved in is…

Earlier this year, we sold a spectacular church conversion on Ledbury Road, a very sought after, central Notting Hill location. The two-bedroom property, priced at £3,750,000, boasted a beautifully designed, modern interior and striking architectural features.

Gareth Kelly

Associate Director at Marsh & Parsons, Notting Hill

4. The toughest sale and why?

We recently represented several clients in a chain of three. At the bottom, we had two brothers selling a two-bedroom flat on Talbot Road to upgrade to a larger two-bedroom flat with a garden. The seller of this property was downsizing to a smaller one-bedroom flat as an investment. We’re used to dealing with long chains, however this sale was made difficult due to an ineffective solicitor representing the buyer at the bottom of the chain. As a result, the sale of all three properties became very protracted.

5. Finest property showcase…

We currently have a fantastic property for sale on Leinster Square. In my opinion, this flat has everything: fantastic entertaining space, high ceilings, generous sized bedrooms, a great finish throughout and direct access to a garden. £1,695,000 � 020 7313 2890 • marshandparsons.co.uk

1. What makes John D Wood & Co. the go-to-agent in Notting Hill?

Our longevity and values. We are not an aggressive agent but we sell more houses than most. Why? We are trusted and with seven offices in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, John D Wood & Co. is one of the borough’s bigger agents with an excellent local presence.

2. How long have you been in the area?

My entire life, I was conceived in Kensington Park Gardens, born in St Mary’s Hospital and grew up locally. I know and love my patch.

3. What is your company ethos?

To always give the right advice whether you decide to work with us or not. We do not just sell your house, we can help you prepare it for sale through our complimentary Sales Service and Interior Design Department and help you move. For us it is about finding people homes not just the transaction.

Above all we are discreet, offer a very confidential service, and have an international reach.

4. What can we expect for the market in the New Year?

I wish I had a crystal ball! Currently we are in the perfect property storm: Lack of stock, great mortgage deals, very low interest rates, and more uniquely to our area a very strong demand from international buyers.

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ABSOLUTELY Property

Marsh & Parsons’ Ben staff to support Wilson Crisis this Christmas Senior Sales Negotiator

F

or the fourth year running, Ben Wilson, senior sales negotiator at Marsh & Parsons will sacrifice his own Christmas celebrations to volunteer at London’s homeless charity, Crisis.

Every year, ten Crisis centres across London open their doors between the 23rd and 31st December to support the homeless. Ben, who will be based at the Hammersmith Centre, will ensure that those who pass through the doors receive hot meals, health checks, a clean set of clothes, a haircut and a bed for

at Marsh & Parsons

the night.

Ben said, “I decided to start volunteering for Crisis because I find it shocking that such a wealthy and developed capital like London, has so many homeless people. I wanted to show my support during, what is for many, an incredibly lonely time of year. I really felt I was making a difference to so many people and that’s why this will be the fourth year I’ve been involved.” � marshandparsons.co.uk

Mountgrange Heritage flower kiosk to transform North Kensington street

A

landmark flower kiosk designed by innovative young architect Kyle Buchanan opened in November, next to the office of Mountgrange Heritage on St Helen’s Gardens, W10 London. It is hoped that the eye-catching kiosk will help transform the fortune of the St Helen’s Gardens parade of shops; much like the now legendary Piers Gough designed Turquoise Island transformed the fortunes of Westbourne Grove in the 1990s.

The flower kiosk which will bring vibrancy and colour to the previously unloved patch of land, was the brainchild of Mountgrange Heritage Director, Liz Thomson who has worked in the borough of Kensington and Chelsea for over 20 years. � mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

The St John’s Christmas Fair Saturday 7th December 11.00am – 5.00pm

C

ome along to St John’s for festive enchantment in the middle of Notting Hill. The church will be transformed into a bustling Christmas market with lots on offer, including delicious food, a Santa’s Grotto, Christmas carols and other music, a puppet show, and lots of Christmassy items on sale, including Christmas trees, decorations, and many varied stalls selling items that will be perfect for presents. Everything you need for Christmas found in one place!

For more info, visit www.stjohnsnottinghill. com, or telephone 020 7727 4262. St John’s, Lansdowne Crescent, Notting Hill, W11 2NN

� struttandparker.com

Enna-Mae Assiter Chesterton Humberts, Notting Hill

Chesterton Humberts Yearly Round Up 2013 has been an exceptional year in terms of the number of sales completed and prices achieved. The disparity between high levels of demand from buyers and shortage of good quality and well located properties has continued to push house prices in the area in an upwards directions.

Looking forward to 2014, the increased availability of low interest rates will continue to fuel a strong seller’s market coupled with sustained interest from international buyers looking for long term rental investments. We expect to see prime London capital values increase throughout 2014 (in some cases as much as 8.1%*) and thanks to the Governmentbacked schemes, a growth in demand from first and second steppers for properties in areas previously considered to be non-prime. � 020 3040 8585 • chestertonhumberts.com

Fay Askarnia Benham & Reeves Residential Lettings’ Kensington Office

Lettings demand strong across the board Properties have been letting really quickly, with the top end of the market particularly busy (in November we rented 5 properties at over £5000 per week). Demand is strong across the board though and one, two and three bedroom properties have also been flying out, especially at Portobello Square in North Kensington, where we have 15 brand new 1 and 2 beds which are being snapped up very quickly. We’re beginning to run out of stock of some types of property. A high percentage of tenants are opting to renew their leases, a trend we’ve been seeing for some time, contributing to the shortage of good properties. Against this backdrop, the corporate lets market stands out as being particularly brisk, with demand highest from finance industry executives, particularly from Europe, the Far East and the USA. � 020 3324 6678 • brlets.co.uk

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ABSOLUTELY Property

Prime Purchase

Vendor Advice Viewings

O

ur staff will conduct each and every viewing so there is no need for a vendor to be present when their property is being scrutinised by buyers. We are available to facilitate any viewing, and ensure the vendor’s property is presented to its optimum. Recently this has involved the making of beds, mowing of lawns, child minding and washing the dog!

History shows that buyers meeting sellers is the ’kiss of death’ to any sale and therefore, it is imperative that the agent mediates between the two to ensure the purchasing process is managed efficiently and effectively.

John D Wood and Co. continues to show a client’s property after a sale is agreed.

This ensures that no willing and able potential buyer is prevented from seeing a property and making their offer and it gives our client the great strength gained from a backup buyer.

William Tellwright

Associate Director of John D Wood & Co., Holland Park � 020 7727 2233 • johndwood.co.uk

�

An excellently refurbished freehold house on the Hyde Park Estate.

T

he property has six bedrooms, six bathrooms, staff accommodation, integral garage as well as under floor heating and air conditioning.

There is also a lovely terrace on the top

Details

Cambridge Square, W2 £5,900,000 Freehold

floor overlooking the Garden Square.

Cambridge Square is ideally located for the Connaught Village amenities and open spaces of Hyde Park. Energy efficiency: Band C.

Contact

Carter Jonas 020 3324 8160; carterjonas.co.uk

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St Mary Abbots Terrace, W14 ÂŁ2,950,000 Freehold A wonderful modern family house arranged over three floors conveniently located on a private road close to all of the amenities and transport links of Kensington High Street and Holland Park. The property has a stunning private roof terrace, access to communal gardens and the added benefit of off-street parking for two cars. EPC = E. Two reception rooms, four bedrooms, study/playroom, kitchen, two bathrooms, terrace, off-street parking and communal gardens.

020 7221 2277 tashan @ mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

Adrian Overington Residential Sales

Winter is on the way and we have a lot of prospective buyers and tenants eager to get things moving before the Christmas festivities are upon us. So, if you have a property coming available in the near future do give us a call and we would be delighted to give you a free valuation.

Alternatively drop into any one of our offices and meet the team.

Henrietta Soames Residential Lettings

Bayswater 020 7402 0070 Kensington 020 7937 9976 North Kensington 020 8960 0181 Notting Hill 020 7221 2277

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Warwick Gardens, W14 ÂŁ4,750,000 Freehold A stylishly refurbished, Victorian family house (approx. 3,355 sq ft) benefiting from excellent entertaining and living space as well as a wonderful secluded rear garden. The property has retained its traditional elegance but now boasts a more contemporary feel thanks to the high specification fittings. Warwick Gardens is situated south of Kensington High Street and is closed to traffic from Addison Road between 10.30 pm and 6.30 am. The closest tube stations are Earls Court and Kensington Olympia. EPC = C. Double reception room, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, study, master bedroom suite, four double bedrooms, two bathrooms, utility room, two cloakrooms and garden. JSA Knight Frank

020 7937 9976 tom @ mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

Chloe Leefe Residential Sales

The Kensington property market continues to thrive and our office on Stratford Road continues to be busy with our many clients in the area.

So if you are looking to buy or rent, or if you have a property to sell or let then pop in and meet the team or alternatively give us a call and we will be delighted to help. hello@mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

Amanda Man Residential Lettings

Bayswater 020 7402 0070 Kensington 020 7937 9976 North Kensington 020 8960 0181 Notting Hill 020 7221 2277

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Iverna Court, W8 £4,350,000 Share of Freehold A spectacular lateral apartment located on the third floor of this well-maintained mansion block with lift and porter.The property has been meticulously refurbished throughout to create incredibly stylish accommodation. The double reception room overlooks the pretty communal gardens to which the flat has access. Iverna Court is tucked behind Kensington High Street, providing very easy access to the shops, bars, restaurants and tube station and Kensington Gardens is also only a short walk away. EPC = C. Double reception room, eat-in kitchen, master suite, three further bedrooms, two bathrooms, utility room, balcony and communal gardens. Sole Agents

020 7937 9976 toby @ mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

Thalia Bryan Director

The season of music from the Kensington and Chelsea Music Society continues at Leighton House with five more concerts in 2014. The next recital is an evening of Bach, Richard Strauss and Beethoven with Bartosz Woroch, violin, and Robert Thompson, piano, on Thursday 16 January – don’t miss it! Mountgrange Heritage are proud to sponsor KCMS for the eighth year running and you can drop in to any of our offices now to pick up a programme or you can read it at mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

Bayswater 020 7402 0070 Kensington 020 7937 9976 North Kensington 020 8960 0181 Notting Hill 020 7221 2277

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ABSOLUTELY Property

Luxurious Lettings Lowdown

for Landlords What happens at the end of a tenancy?

A

n independent inventory clerk will attend the property usually on the last day of the tenancy to conduct the inventory check-out. A copy of this report will then be forwarded to the landlord and the tenant. The property must be left in the same condition as at the commencement of the tenancy and the tenant is responsible for professionally cleaning the property prior to the inventory check-out. The tenant must not change the locks at the property and if all sets of keys are not returned at the time of the check-out the landlord can change the locks and charge the tenant. The deposit will be returned to the tenant when the agent has received written confirmation from both the landlord and the tenant that they are in agreement over any charges to be deducted from the deposit. Any goods or personal effects belonging to the tenant which have not been removed from the property within 14 days after the end of the tenancy may be disposed of by the landlord and all associated charges will be paid for by the tenant.

The tenant may not make any alterations or additions to the property and may be charged for re-decorating to the same colour as at the commencement of the tenancy.

Amanda Bastin Associate Director at Douglas & Gordon, Kensington � 020 7792 1331; douglasandgordon.com

KFH is pleased to offer this immaculate three bedroom apartment, located in the heart of Bayswater and overlooking the neighbouring private gardens.

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T

he property benefits from a wealth of period features including high ceilings offset with beautiful cornicing and large sash windows which flood the interiors with light. In

Details

Kensington Gardens Square, W2 £4,767 per month

addition, the property also offers excellent storage space, a balcony and access to the communal gardens. Bayswater and Queensway stations are also a mere stone’s throw away.

Contact

KFH Bayswater 020 3282 7638; kfh.co.uk

(Plus £156 tenancy agreement fee. Other fees apply)

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THE QUADRANT, W10 - £475 PER WEEK

CHESTERTON ROAD, W10 - £475 PER WEEK

This immaculate two double bedroom, two bathroom penthouse This beautifully presented two bedroom apartment on the raised NORTH POLE ROAD, W10 £600 PER WEEK apartment offers fantastic outside space. Each room has a ground floor would make a perfect home for a professional This incredibly charming spread overprivate two floors a large, bright open plan living/dining area and kitchen with a lovely rustic feel to it and some balcony combined withflat a very large roofoffers terrace. couple or sharers. original features such as wood floors and exposed brick work. French doors lead onto a beautiful patio garden. There is also a good sized bedroom and modern bathroom with shower over bath. Upstairs is the second, master bedroom with excellent storage and en-suite bathroom with a shower room.

Located on North Pole Road, near the junction of Latimer Road the flat is ideally placed for Ladbroke Grove and White City with its good transport links.

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

ST. HELENS W10 - £500 WEEK ST CHARLES W10£475inPER is broadly Palladian GARDENS, in style and is a wide, single storeyPER building with large windows over looking SQUARE, the gardens. It was extended 1978WEEK to include a garden room and a large studio complex including a workshop and dark room . The property currently has very high ceilings and Having been newly refurbished, this flat is in superb condition. An This beautifully refurbished two double bedroom apartment is brick parapets surrounding the roof which has good storage space.

CHESTERTON ROAD, W10 £325 PER WEEK open plan kitchen and living room is a sociable environment ideal finished to a high standard including designer furnishings. Set on A bright one bedroom first floor flat situated in the heart of W10.

The property offers all period features from high ceilings throughout for entertaining. ever popular Stcellar Charles Square in North Kensington.

Four bedrooms | four bathrooms | garden room | hall | drawing room | studio complexthe | dining room | wine | integrated garaging | small lake arboretumto| largesixdouble over acres offronted land windows in the living room. The property comprises a semi open plan kitchen/reception room, a large double bedroom with separate storage room and bathroom. Chesterton Road is a lovely tree-lined residential street offering quick access to a number of transport links and the trendy bars, restaurants and shops of Portobello Road.

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

020 7792 5000 | northkensington@winkworth.co.uk

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winkworth.co.uk/north-kensington 21/11/2013 16:02 18/02/2013 15:11

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ST GABRIELS ROAD, NW2 £1,950,000 FREEHOLD MILVERTON ROAD, NW6 £2,450,000 FREEHOLD

Six Bedroom house

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LD JEYMER AVENUE, NW2 £750,000 FREEHOLD

ANSON ROAD, NW2 £1,300,000 FREEHOLD Five Bedroom house

Three Bedroom flat

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LD SO MELROSE AVENUE, NW2 £499,950 LEASEHOLD

DEACON ROAD, NW2 £375,000 LEASEHOLD Three Bedroom flat

Scan this code to download the Winkworth iPhone app

winkworth.co.uk/willesden-green

See things differently.

020 8451 1000 willesden@winkworth.co.uk

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OARE, WILTSHIRE £2,750,000 FREEHOLD Located in the Wiltshire countryside and built in the 1960’s as a large, modern country house with far-reaching views and extremely flexible accommodation with potential to extend further. Located in the Wiltshire countryside and built in the 1960’s as a large house.

Four bedrooms | four bathrooms | garden room | hall | drawing room | studio complex | dining room | wine cellar | integrated garagingr

BURROWS ROAD, LONDON, NW10

£1,299,950

AOARE, fully extended four bedroom family homeFREEHOLD with approximately 1900 sq. ft. of internal living space including a full side return with bi-folding WILTSHIRE £2,750,000 doors and a loft bedroom with en-suite shower room. This property is exquisite throughout and no expense has been spared on the quality Located in the Wiltshire countryside and built in the 1960’s as a large, modern country house with far-reaching views and extremely flexible of the finished and design. accommodation with potential to extend further. Located in the Wiltshire countryside and built in the 1960’s as a large house.

Four bedrooms | four bathrooms | garden room | hall | drawing room | studio complex | dining room | wine cellar | integrated garagingr

Scan this code to download the Winkworth iPhone app

winkworth.co.uk/kensal-queens-park

See things differently.

020 8960 4947 kensalrise@winkworth.co.uk

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£5,950,000

W2 Hyde Park Gardens

£3,200,000

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W2 Hampshire House

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kayandco.com

A selection of our If you are contemplating home in 2014, or are simply value, please call us today

W2 Westbourne Crescent

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£2,150,000

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W2 Craven Hill Mews

£1,850,000

W2 Sussex Gardens

£1,500,000

21/11/2013 13:12 11:49

Kay&

£625 per week

W2 Bathurst Street

£500 per week

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W2 Hereford Road

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kayandco.com

recent successes selling or letting your curious about its current on 020 3394 0016

W2 Archery Steps

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£395 per week

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W2 North Rise

£360 per week

W2 West Rise

£350 per week

21/11/2013 13:13 12:04

beaneypearce.co.uk

A cut above the rest Kensington A stunning three bedroom apartment positioned on the raised ground floor of this prestigious and desirable portered apartment block adjacent to Hyde Park. The property comprises entrance hall, reception, separate kitchen with integrated appliances, three large double bedrooms and two family bathrooms. Further benefits include wooden flooring, high ceilings, large windows and good storage throughout (2,067sqft / 192 sqm).

2 bedrooms 2 bathrooms Wood floors High ceilings Energy efficiency rating: E

Furnished or Unfurnished £1,950 per week

020 7838 1888

Prime position South Kensington This outstandingly beautiful and very spacious three bedroom apartment is offered to let in the heart of South Kensington, on the hugely popular southern terrace of Queen’s Gate.

The apartment is found within easy reach of both South Kensington and Gloucester Road underground stations, Hyde Park and a whole host of shops, restaurants and amenities in the local area.

3 bedrooms 3 bathrooms Conservatory Balcony Spacious throughout Energy efficiency rating: D

Unfurnished £2,750 per week

020 7838 1888

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Established 1991 SALES & LETTINGS

Immaculate perfection South Kensington Leasehold ÂŁ1,195,000 020 7838 1888

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A beautifully refurbished and spacious luxury two bedroom apartment in Rosary Gardens. This property features its own private entrance with a light and spacious open plan kitchen and reception room, providing ample room for both dining and entertaining. There is a separate utility and storage area with plumbing for washing machine and tumble dryer. The master bedroom benefits from a walk through wardrobe and an en suite bathroom. The second bedroom is a large double with built in wardrobes. There is also a separate shower room. The property benefits from a private patio and direct access to communal gardens. Rosary Gardens is a sought after address in South Kensington.

Located close to the Old Brompton Road with its many fashionable shops, restaurants, cafes and cinema. The local underground station is Gloucester Road (846 sqft / 78.6 sqm)

2 bedrooms, Reception room/Dining room/Kitchen, 2 bathrooms (1 en-suite), Utility room, Direct access to communal gardens, Energy efficiency rating: D

Chelsea

Notting Hill

South Kensington

T: 020 7590 9500

T: 020 7221 9044

T: 020 7838 1888 21/11/2013 15:57

ABSOLUTELY Property

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

Westbourne Park Road, W11 This delightful property is beautifully balanced, full of natural light, and boasts a beautifully modernised interior retaining much character; reception space is particularly impressive with a spacious ground floor double reception/kitchen diner, an elegant south facing first floor drawing room, and an incredible ground floor family/ cinema room. The property is set back from the road behind a pretty front garden, and also boasts an amazing roof terrace and rear patio garden. Other highlights include a beautiful en-suite shower room.

There is an integrated audio and security system throughout the property. Westbourne Park Road is located within very easy reach of an array of superb local amenities, vibrant boutiques, restaurants, bars and transport links; Westbourne Grove and Portobello Road are a short walk away.

£4,250,000 � Marsh & Parsons 020 7313 8350 • marshandparsons.co.uk

Radnor Place, W2

Westbourne Park Road, W2

A substantial four bedroom freehold family house located in the heart of the Hyde Park Estate. The property has just been refurbished to an exquisite standard and now offers sumptuous accommodation set behind a period façade. The property is further enhanced by a roof garden and secure off street parking space held on a separate licence.

An attractive and unusually wide family house with a charming south facing garden. Situated close to the corner of Westbourne Gardens, the house is located on the eastern end of Westbourne Park road and therefore benefits from the shopping and transport facilities of the area. The property comprises five bedrooms, three bathrooms, kitchen / breakfast room, three reception areas, second kitchen, cloakroom, utility room, and a South-west facing garden.

£5,500,000 Freehold

£4,500,000 Freehold

� Kay & Co. 020 7262 2030 • kayandco.com

� Strutt & Parker 0207 221 1111 • struttandparker.com

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ABSOLUTELY Property

Rutland Gardens, SW7

Hyde Park Square, W2

On the first floor of a magnificent period building in Knightsbridge opposite Hyde Park is this stunning and elegant four bedroom, lateral apartment. This is a wonderfully light property with high ceilings and well proportioned rooms throughout. It was refurbished by the current owners a few years ago to an extremely high standard.

Rutland Court is fully portered and gated and there is secure parking for two cars. Hyde Park and the amenities of Knightsbridge are moments away.

A magnificent penthouse apartment in an elegant period building just moments from Hyde Park and less than five minutes walking distance from Paddington Station. The property benefits from the most spectacular open plan entertaining space and views south towards the park. The flat benefits from direct lift access and a separate studio flat for guests / staff. Available December – Unfurnished.

£2,250 Per Week � Mountgrange Heritage 020 7402 0070 • mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

£7,100,000 STC � Beaney & Pearce 020 7838 1888 beaneypearce.co.uk

Stuart Road, Acton, W3

Argyll Place, W10

Westbourne Road, W2

Bective Leslie Marsh is pleased to introduce Argyll Place, a boutique development of luxury town and mews houses by property developer Taylor Wimpey Central London.

The development is situated in the sought after area of North Kensington overlooking the recently restored Kensington Memorial Park. Each freehold house has been meticulously designed to the highest standards to provide contemporary living space, ideal for families and professionals alike.

An attractive and unusually wide family house with a charming south facing garden. Situated close to the corner of Westbourne Gardens, the house is located on the eastern end of Westbourne Park road and therefore benefits from the shopping and transport facilities of the area. The property comprises five bedrooms, three bathrooms, kitchen / breakfast room, three reception areas, second kitchen, cloakroom, utility room, and a South-west facing garden.

£3,800,000 Freehold

£1,650,000 STC

� Bective Leslie Marsh 020 7221 0330 • bective.co.uk

� Anscombe & Ringland 020 7727 7227 • anscombes.co.uk

Set over the ground level of this stucco period building, this attractive two bedroom, two bathroom apartment offers well-balanced contemporary accommodation with a landscaped private courtyard. This property is within close proximity to Hyde Park, the shops and cafes of Connaught Village and the transport links of Paddington Station.

£807 Per Week � Orchards 020 8997 0076 • orchardsoflondon.com

Spotlight on W11 Average asking price - £2,510,066Average asking rents - £4,403 pcmAverage property value - £1,597,498

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GEARY ROAD, NW10

£639,950 FREEHOLD

• Three double bedrooms

• CAT6 cabling & sound system

Having been subject to extensive refurbishment is this state of the

• Stunning fully fitted kitchen

• Potential to extend

art 3 bedroom home situated in a 1930s home close to the stunning

• Underfloor heating

• Prime location.

Gladstone Park in Dollis Hill. Viewing essential. EPC = E.

MOUNT PLEASANT ROAD, NW10

£1,899,950 FREEHOLD

• Spacious 5 bed detach home

• Garage & OSP for several cars

Situated over three floors & offering over 2600 ft of fabulous

• 33’ open plan reception

• En-suite to master bedroom

living accommodation with patio doors & flat roof windows

• New fitted kitchen & bathroom

• 120’ rear garden

flooding the property with natural light.

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CHUDLEIGH ROAD, NW6

£2,499,999 FREEHOLD

• 2 reception rooms

• Original features

Substantial 6 bedroom 1930’s ‘art deco’ detached property set in

• Large kitchen with fitted units

• Close to Queens Park

leafy suburb of Brondesbury Park with garage & carriage drive for

• Parquet flooring

• Large garden & patio

several cars. EPC = E.

AYLESTONE AVENUE, NW6

£2,499,950 FREEHOLD

• Large loft with massive potential

• 140’ beautiful garden

Superb detached 5 bedroom 1920s family home in need of some

• Parquet flooring throughout

• Carriage drive

upgrading in Brondesbury Park.

• 4 reception rooms

• Viewing essential

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

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Sacrifice never tasted sweeter.

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ABSOLUTELY Property

Ask the Sales Experts

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

1

Should I redecorate pre-sale?

T

his is a frequently asked question.

I always tell my vendors that if they are considering re-decorating a room, it is always advisable to look at the bigger picture. How many rooms require work? Sometimes, redecorating a room can actually highlight problems elsewhere, so often it is better to do all or nothing. If finances allow, freshening up your home always works wonders.

4 T

What common mistakes do sellers make?

2

Where should I invest?

I

would recommend the northern reaches of Kensington & Chelsea as an area that has plenty of positive angles for the investor. In particular, the areas surrounding Golborne Road, Portobello Road and Ladbroke Grove.

With most of K&C becoming beyond the reach of the typical investor, this area still offers relatively good value, a variety of different property styles and a fast improving reputation as one of west London’s most fashionable neighbourhoods. Combining good transport links, an eclectic mix of shops and restaurants and a thriving rental market, these capital values in this area look to soar as the redevelopment of Wornington Green continues.

rust your agent to show your home in the best light. Price your property carefully, use price as a guide. A buyer is more likely to put forward a strong offer on a property which they feel has been priced correctly. Don’t discount the first offer that comes forward. Agents will always bring their best buyers in to see a property first. Some buyers have been looking for months and will immediately put their best foot forward if yours is the right one for them.

5

3

When is the best time to sell?

I

n London, all are good selling months with the exception of December when generally buyers, valuers and solicitors are distracted by parties and families visiting for Christmas, which make viewings difficult.

If photographs of your property are taken in December, they are immediately dated by Christmas trees, door wreaths, poinsettias and decorations. It is worth remembering that most buyers in January want to move in by April, while those purchasing in spring want to be settled in their new home for September, and those selling in autumn want to make their transactions in time for Christmas.

“

Sometimes, redecorating a room can actually highlight problems elsewhere, so often it is better to do all or nothing

6

“

Why hasn’t my property sold?

I

Should I use a Financial Advisor?

t may be any number of factors, and it is not always the asking price being too high, as a lot of agents will have you believe. It may be as simple as making sure the property is looking spotless for viewings, or it may need more time to find the right buyer. However, it is possible that the valuation was too enthusiastic in the first place and a reduction is needed in order to bring the property in line with the market’s expectations. It is incredibly important in these circumstances that you trust your chosen agent and feel you are being given honest and informed advice.

T

he mortgage market is very competitive right now and there are some amazing rates on offer if you have a good deposit, i.e. 25% or more.

If your financial situation is straightforward then the best rates are probably available online and direct with the lender. However, if you need more creative financial planning advice then a broker can be invaluable.

1. Maddie Lewington

2. James Kerman

Associate, Douglas & Gordon

Director, Winkworth

3. Matthew Harrop Director, John D Wood & Co.

� 020 7727 7777 • douglasandgordon.com

� 020 7792 5000 • winkworth.co.uk

� 020 7908 1100 • johndwood.co.uk

6. Alistair Heather

4. Kim Turner

5. Michael Wilson

Sales Manager, Bective Leslie Marsh

Director, Mountgrange Heritage

Associate, Strutt & Parker

� 020 7795 4288 • bective.co.uk

� 020 7221 2277 • mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

� 020 7221 1111 • struttandparker.com

142 • AskSales_NottHill_Dec.indd 142

21/11/2013 17:01

TR ACKEDY DELIVER THIS WAY UP

Douglas & Gordon are making a very special Christmas delivery and we need your help Between Saturday 30th November & Thursday 5th December your local Douglas & Gordon office is being transformed into a festive grotto. Please drop by and leave any non-perishable foods, new toys and cash donations for the 18,000 deprived and at risk London children supported by Kids Company.

If you can’t make it to our offices, don’t worry – on Thursday 5th December our merry team will also be calling door-to-door. So please gather what you can and help us make this Christmas truly first class.

douglasandgordon.com

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07/11/2013 12:08 11:48

Sales

ÂŁ1,425,000 Share of Freehold Ledbury Road W11

A 1,169 sq.ft extremely light maisonette over the top two floors of this period building. The three bedroom property also benefits from a west-facing balcony.

3 bedrooms, Bathroom, Reception room, Kitchen/ dining room, Study, Cloakroom, West-facing balcony, EPC: E.

An elegant and spacious apartment located on the first floor of this white stucco-fronted building, benefiting from floor to ceiling French windows which open on to the west-facing balcony.

Master bedroom, Mezzanine with sleeping area and storage, Bathroom, Reception room, Dining room, Kitchen, West-facing balcony, EPC: C.

Notting Hill Sales 020 7727 7777 | nhsales@dng.co.uk

ÂŁ1,195,000 Share of Freehold Linden Gardens W2 Kensington Sales 020 7792 1881 | kensales@dng.co.uk

D&G.indd 2

20/11/2013 15:33

Sales

douglasandgordon.com

ÂŁ925,000 Share of Freehold Pembridge Square W2

A wonderful, smart and elegant flat has become available to buy on this highly sought-after square in Notting Hill.

Double bedroom, Bathroom, Reception room, Kitchen/breakfast room, Shared garden, Access to communal gardens, Excellent storage, EPC: D.

A bright and spacious two double bedroom flat on the lower ground floor of a Victorian house.

Located in a quiet tree lined cul-de-sac just off Notting Hill Gate.

2 double bedrooms, Bathroom, Reception/dining room, Kitchen, Private decked garden, EPC: C.

Notting Hill Sales 020 7727 7777 | nhsales@dng.co.uk

ÂŁ849,950 Leasehold Linden Gardens W2 Kensington Sales 020 7792 1881 | kensales@dng.co.uk

D&G.indd 3

20/11/2013 15:34

Lettings

ÂŁ1,350 per week Unfurnished Ladbroke Gardens W11

A fantastic, light and spacious top floor maisonette which has been recently refurbished to a high standard and is ideal for family living and entertaining.

4 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en-suite), Cloakroom, Reception room, Kitchen/breakfast room, Lift, Access to communal gardens, EPC: E.

A smart and stylish mews house located in this popular location just off Ledbury Road in the heart of Notting Hill, within a short walk of the shops, bars and restaurants of Westbourne Grove.

2 double bedrooms, En-suite bathroom, En-suite shower room, Cloakroom, Reception room, Openplan kitchen, Balcony, Garage, Off-street parking, EPC: F.

Notting Hill Lettings 020 7727 8000 | nhlets@dng.co.uk

ÂŁ1,125 per week Unfurnished Ledbury Mews North W11 Notting Hill Lettings 020 7727 8000 | nhlets@dng.co.uk

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20/11/2013 15:35

Lettings

douglasandgordon.com

£875 per week Furnished/Unfurnished Holland Park Avenue W11

A stunning newly refurbished ground floor flat finished to the highest standard with contemporary interior, wooden floors, high ceilings and surround sound.

2 double bedrooms, En-suite bathroom, Shower room, Reception room, Open-plan kitchen, EPC: D.

A superb, extremely stylish maisonette, newly refurbished throughout and offering a wonderful reception room and open-plan kitchen/breakfast room with wooden floors throughout.

3 bedrooms, En-suite shower room, Bathroom, Cloakroom, Reception room, Open-plan kitchen/ breakfast room, EPC: D.

Notting Hill Lettings 020 7727 8000 | nhlets@dng.co.uk

£850 per week Furnished/Unfurnished Garway Road W2 Notting Hill Lettings 020 7727 8000 | nhlets@dng.co.uk

Douglas & Gordon will charge an initial one off tenancy agreement fee of £240 per tenancy and an individual tenant reference fee of £45 per tenant. For further details please go to www.dng.co.uk/fees

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20/11/2013 15:35

FISH NOV 2013 final_Layout 1 15/10/2013 16:34 Page 1

the ultimate family Club for health, sports & relaxation just got even better

ÂŁ1million investment in very latest Technogym Cardio & Wellness System - now installed

www.theparkclubgym.co.uk For further information and to arrange a club tour

call 020 8740 4599

The Park Club East Acton Lane West London W3 7HB PARK CLUB.indd 2

17/10/2013 09:08