NORTH BY NORTHWEST AUGUST 2015

NORTH BY NORTHWEST

AUGUST 2015 / £3.95

INSIDE STORY HOW THE MINT LIST MADE ITS MARK

RICHARD E. GRANT

HIS LIFE AFTER WITHNAIL & I

FAR OUT

EMBRACE THE BOHO TREND

CITY SLICKER

CHIC STYLE FOR THE WOMAN ABOUT TOWN

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contents Aug ust 2015

48

ART & CULTURE

8 WHAT’S ON

Diary dates for Auxgust

10 GRANT & I

Richard E. Grant charms us with his

British humour and refreshing honesty

24 WARDROBE MASTER

British Esquire’s Senior Style Editor, Teo van

den Broeke, on the trainers shoe trend

HE ALTH & BE AUT Y

28 BEAUTY CONFIDENTIAL

August’s best beauty buys and reviews

FASHION

31 FITNESS CONFIDENTIAL

This month’s hottest trends and products

BOOM Cycle’s Bangs, superfood-filled Oppo Ice Cream and Every Second Counts’ new line

FOOD & DRINK

hottest openings and products for August

16 STYLE CONFIDENTIAL

18 BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY

Charlotte Adsett explores hippie-luxe with

18

clashing exotic prints and 70s silhouettes

35 TABLE TALK

Jane Parkinson’s wine pairings and the 39 FOOD REVIEW

Not just for corporates: Stephanie King tests

COVERS

All clothing by ESCADA, 194-195 SLOANE STREET, SW1X 7XL

e s c a d a .c o m P h o t o g r a p h e r D a n i e l J ac k s o n

INTERIORS

56 INTERIOR INSPIRATIONS

The best contemporary classic pieces and Jessica

out the City’s newly refurb’d The Sterling

43 SMALL TALK

Helen Baron finds the best clothing and

60 ONE OF A KIND

We speak with the inimitable Camilla Kelly,

KIDS & EDUCATION

accessories for little ones this summer

TRAVEL

48 CHILL AND THRILL

Catherine Hales travels to Mauritius and uncovers its playful and peaceful sides

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33

Klingelfuss’ latest limited edition discovery

founder of vintage furniture site The Mint List

PROPERT Y

72 PROPERTY NEWS

Nigel Lewis shares his property insights, and

recent news and views on the area

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EST. 2005

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EDITOR CATHERINE HALES SENIOR EDITORIAL ASSISTANT ELIZABETH HUTTON EDITORIAL ASSISTANT STEPHANIE KING CONTRIBUTING FASHION EDITOR CHARLOTTE ADSETT CONTRIBUTING INTERIORS EDITOR JESSICA KLINGELFUSS EDITORIAL INTERN ALEX PIOTROW SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER KRISTIAN BRUMBY MAJOR ACCOUNTS DIRECTOR TAMSIN LUCK PROPERTY DIRECTOR ANDY ELMER PROPERTY EXECUTIVE JENNI RAWSTHORNE PROPERTY EDITOR HUGO HUNTER ART DIRECTOR RAY SEARLE SENIOR DESIGNER PHIL COUZENS PRODUCTION MANAGER STEWART HYDE MIDWEIGHT DESIGNER GEMMA ISTEED DESIGNER EKREM YILMAZ JUNIOR DESIGNER REBECCA NOONAN FINANCIAL CONTROLLER AYSHA HABIBI CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER ALEXANDRA HVID PA TO THE DIRECTORS MARIANNE MCFADDEN DIRECTORS ALEXANDRA HUNTER MANAGING DIRECTOR SHERIF SHALTOUT For editorial enquiries please email: catherine@zest-media.com For advertising enquiries please call 020 7704 0588 or email: advertising@zest-media.com Subscriptions are available simply by emailing marianne@zest-media.com You can receive an online subscription for FREE or a postal subscriptions for 12 months, £30 respectively (to cover postage and packaging). Please email us with your preferred option and details.

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EDITOR’S letter

A

ugust in London makes it feel like everyone is on holiday – except, of course, for you.

Children dominate the tube, every bus is crammed with pushchairs and a day in the park is only possible if you arrive at the crack of dawn and fight off the au pairs with a stick. Bearing this in mind, in this issue we attempt to offer you a little escapism, whether you’re stuck in the office or cooped up at home with the kids.

Our travel feature this month has us jetting off to the island of Mauritius.

Balancing the indulgence of a beach holiday with the excitement of an adventure-packed break, Mauritius has all bases covered. See page 48 to find out how your editor fared when attempting ziplining for the first time (spoiler alert: I panicked).

If you can’t actually jump on a plane and jet off to paradise, you can at least dress the part with our fashion shoot on page 18. Styled by our brilliant

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fashion editor, Charlotte Adsett, the vivid prints and patterns summon up visions of Moroccan markets and sunset over the riads.

Our lead interview this month is Richard E. Grant, an expert in the field of escapism, having spent a career creating characters worlds away from his quiet, charming self. Find out why he’s taken a break from acting to dabble in the perfume industry on page 10.

Those working in the City who are merely seeking a small escape from their offices should take note of our review of The Sterling on page 39.

A little bubble of tranquility away from the hustle and bustle, their comfort grub is just what the doctor ordered. Perhaps not the cardiologist, but still.

I hope you enjoy the issue. Tchuss! u

Catherine Hales Editor

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© WARNER BROS, 'CASABLANCA', 1942, SCREENED AT ROYAL OPERA HOUSE, 7 & 8 AUGUST

> WHAT'S ON THIS AUGUST

p. 8

INTERVIEW: RICHARD E. GRANT

p. 10

OF ALL THE THEATRES Humphrey Bogart. Ingrid Bergman. One of pop culture’s most iconic films, Casablanca (1942), will be brought to life this August at the Royal Opera House when the on-screen drama is amplified by Cinematic Sinfonia’s accompanying performance. Sounds like the beginning of a beautiful friendship. roh.org.uk

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AJ BELL LONDON TRI

CARSTEN HÖLLER, ISOMERIC SLIDES, 2015

© TAKAHIRO YAMAMOTO

8 -9 Au g u s t Ex C e L L o ndo n his is the world’s largest triathlon and, T with distances to suit all abilities, a must do for all athletes. Over 13,000 entrants will swim, cycle and run around the Docklands, cheered on by thousands of spectators. Very well organised and good fun. u Royal Victoria Dock, E16; thelondontriathlon.com

PHOTOGRAPHY NOW 6 -16 Au g u s t T he B r i c k L a ne G a ll e r y howing local and international S photographers, who explore and reveal different themes and emotions, this show includes the work of Takahiro Yamamoto who captures natural beauty using geometric structures. u 93-95 Sclater Street, E1; thebricklanegallery.com

DECISION Throughout August Haywa rd G a ller y

Belgian artist Carsten Höller has an advanced degree in science and often draws upon the laws of physics for his artwork. His latest interactive exhibition explores perception and decision-making by culminating in his ‘Isomeric Slides’ that fall from the gallery’s roof. This promises to be an educational experience like no other.

Belvedere Road, SE1;

carstenholler.southbankcentre.co.uk

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THE CRAYFISH FESTIVAL Un ti l 16 Au g u s t Fi k a L o ndo n elebrate the Nordic summertime C festival and stuff yourself on all-you-can-eat crayfish, herring and gravadlax. Customary accessories include comical paper hats and bibs so don’t take yourself seriously, let loose and have some fun. u 161 Brick Lane, E1; fikalondon.com

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ARTS & CULTURE / TALKING TOPICS

KLEZFEST CONCERT

NOONDAY DEMONS

TRUE ROMANCE © CASSANDRA YAP

1 9 Au g u s t JW 3 o celebrate the return of the world-famous JMI T music summer school, Klezfest, JW3 are putting on an evening of Jewish music. With some of the most significant players in the klezmer revival coming to perform, including the renowned clarinetist, Joel Rubin, this will be a fun, passionate and energetic evening of traditional Eastern Jewish music. u 341-351 Finchley Road, NW3; jmi.org.uk

Summer Screen Prints Un t i l 23 Aug us t S om e r s e t Ho u s e

must see

To mark their third year at Somerset House, Film4 Summer Screen has commissioned screen-prining studio, Print Club London, to curate a series of illustrations inspired by their original posters. Featuring established designers Rose Blake and street artist RYCA alongside emerging talent such as Cassandra Yap, this is an eclectic and inspirational collection of work.

Unti l 2 August Kings Head T h e a t re he tragic and the ridiculous crash into T each other in this rare revival of Peter Barnes’ 1969 anarchic black comedy. Following two hermits as they try to survive in the Egyptian desert, this is a witty and rude play that explores zealotry and extreme violence performed in the name of God – themes that are all too familiar in today’s world. u 115 Upper Street, N1; kingsheadtheatre.com

West Wing Galleries, WC2; somersethouse.org.uk

PLAY OF THE MONTH

THE CAR MAN Un t i l 9 Au gu s t S adle r ’ s We ll s

riginally performed at Sadler’s Wells in 2007, Matthew Bourne’s internationally acclaimed award-winning dance thriller, The Car Man, is back with it’s instantly recognisable score.

Loosely based on Bizet’s opera Carmen, the 19th Century Spanish cigarette factory becomes a greasy 1960’s American diner.

Here the dreams and desires of a small-town are shattered by the arrival of a handsome

O

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stranger. Full of betrayal and revenge, Bourne combines sexual jealousy and crime passionnel with the absurdity of forties film noir classic, The Postman Always Rings Twice, to create a dangerous and uncompromising vision of the US. The Car Man is a modern day classic so be sure to see it.◆  Rosebery Avenue, EC1R; sadlerswells.com

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GRANT & I Following the launch of his second fragrance, Covent Garden, we speak to Londoner Richard E. Grant about scent and the Spice Girls I n t e r v i e w r o m y va n d e n b r o e k e

I

met Richard E. Grant on a sunny day in April at The Corner Restaurant and Champagne bar in Selfridges. One of Britain's most eminent acting talents, loved as much for his slurring turn in Withnail & I as for his humourless first footman in Gosford Park, I found myself a little intimidated.

But when I arrived at the event, Grant got up and meandered over to introduce himself. “Hello, I’m Richard. You must be Romy,” he took my hand and shook it firmly, before making a joke - one I can’t remember because of a mild case of being struck by stardom - and warning me, with a wry smile, to eat all of my breakfast because he had forked out for it himself.

Immaculately dressed in a slim cut navy blazer and with a leonine head of perfectly coiffed hair, Grant is every bit the veteran British thespian - but his self-effacing demeanor, raucous sense of humour and effortless British charm put me instantly at ease.

Grant’s formidable acting career hasn’t slowed with age (he turned 58 in May).

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[WITHNAIL & I]

deals with failure and that is SOMETHING MORE PEOPLE might be able to EMPATHISE with than success His recent cameo in acclaimed American television series Girls is evidence of Grant’s ability to remain relevant. Lena Dunham, the writer, director and star of the series, wrote Grant into the role of Jasper, an onand-off-the-wagon cocaine addict indulging in an affair with a girl half his age.

As a self-confessed fan of Withnail & I, it’s easy to see where Dunham’s inspiration for the character came from.

There’s a mutual admiration between the two, palpable in the way Grant speaks about her. “[She] write[s] with such extraordinary insight and honesty,” he continues, describing her as an “uber multi-hyphenate phenomenon”.

Any good actor has a couple of stinkers on their resumé, and Grant is not exempt.

2014's Dom Hemmingway is definitely up there, and let's not forget Spice Girls: The Movie. But in general, Grant’s managed to avoid any major flops. From his recent role as Lord Michael Heseltine in 2011 The Iron Lady, to the voice of Percy in Disney’s Pocahontas, Grant’s repertoire is extensive to say the least - he starred in Francis Ford Coppola’s acclaimed Bram Stoker’s Dracula in 1992, The Age of Innocence in 1993, the aforementioned Gosford Park in 2001 and Bright Young Things in 2003. More recently, Grant played Simon Bricker, an art historian, in Downton Abbey and is currently filming forthcoming ITV drama Jekyll and Hyde.

Even with a plethora of box office hits in the bag, the one film most people associate with Grant is Bruce Robinson’s 1987 cult classic, Withnail & I, in which Grant plays an alcoholic Nihlist with a penchant for drinking lighter fluid.

Grant attributes the film’s cult success to the fact that it “deals with failure and that is something more people might be able to empathise with than success.”

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ARTS & CULTURE / INTERVIEW

He continues, “[Withnail & I] has no plot nor any of the things every other successful movie relies on. The script is also scabrously witty and infused with profound loss and nostalgia. In other words, it’s truly romantic.

“It opened every career door for me.

In the three decades since it was made, it still gets quoted at me by total strangers on a daily basis.” With such success so early on his career, has anything else lived up to it? “Writing and directing my autobiographical film WAH-WAH was a real highlight too, as I was able to re-visit my incredibly dysfunctional family life from the safety of middle age.”

Born of English, Dutch and German ancestry, Grant’s upbringing was a colourful one. His father, Henrik Esterhuysen, was head of education for the British government administration in the former British Protectorate of Swaziland. When he was ten, Grant witnessed his mother sleeping with his father’s best friend in the back of his car - a cataclysmic event which led to the subsequent divorce of his parents.

Writing and producing the film WAHWAH, the autobiographical take on this traumatic period of his life, in 2005 was, for Grant, “very intense and cathartic, while directing it was entirely liberating as we filmed in most of the locations where the key events in the story took place.” Surprisingly, Grant's mother gave the film her blessing, something he describes as “both generous and much appreciated.”

A former sufferer of depression, Grant now speaks openly about mental health and attributes his recovery to 18-months of rigorous psychoanalysis, claiming that it saved his life. He also believes that acting has helped him to cope with painful memories from his past. “Acting is a great way of dealing with and confronting difficult issues, as you are always examining behavior and what motivates people to do the things they do.” With this in mind, I ask, is there anything he’d like to tell his younger self? “Rest easy. You will live beyond 52” – the age his father died – “You will fall in love.

You will have a child. You

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moon in 1969, when I was 12 years old, have I wanted to go into outer space.”

He may not have made it out of the atmosphere just yet, but Grant has recently branched into a surprising new industry. Last year he launched his first fragrance, Jack. Far from the Beyonces and Britneys of the fragrance world, Grant saw Jack as an opportunity to explore his obsession with scent. “I have been led by my nose all my life and compulsively sniffed everything in sight,” he admits. As a boy, his concerned parents asked why he felt the need to smell everything, to which he responded: “All animals smell everything, why not us?”

At the age of 12 Grant, taken with a local girl, decided to create a perfume for RICHARD E GRANT’S LATEST FRAGRANCE COVENT GARDEN her by boiling gardenia and rose petals in sugar water, sealing them in jars and burying them in the garden. It didn’t work, but ignited a genuine interest in the art of fragrance making. Forty years later and, with the encouragement of his close friend fashion designer Anya Hindmarch, Grant took the plunge.

Sleeved in a Union Jack-adorned canvas bag, the fragrance contains notes of lime, marijuana and mandarin, with heart notes of nutmeg and clove, and base notes of vetiver and musk. Grant attributes the inclusion of cannabis to his upbringing in Swaziland, a place also will live in London. And you will go to known as The Gold Mine of Marijuana.

Hollywood.”

Grant’s latest scent, Covent Garden, Though Grant’s father wanted him to is now available, having launched in become a barrister, “I was so talkative June. Imbued with notes of rose, orange and argumentative, but law was never and carrot, the fragrance is inspired by a serious consideration,” the actor Covent Garden Market as featured in My originally wanted to tread the surface of Fair Lady - a nod to his theatrical roots. the moon rather than the boards. “Ever Despite travelling the world for work, since Neil Armstrong set foot on the Grant is a determined Londoner. “I love London for the variety of theatre, music, museums, galleries and history. They’re unbeatable. And, if a city could be deemed to have a sense of humour, London most definitely has that.”

His favourite gallery is the National Portrait Gallery, while his theatre of choice is the National, and if you’re lucky you might spot him wandering the streets, probably en route to grab a bite at Spring, Skye Gyngell's new eatery in Somerset GRANT IN HIS SEMINAL ROLE IN WITHNAIL & I House. u

Ever since NEIL ARMSTRONG set foot on the MOON IN 1969, when I was 12 YEARS old, have I wanted to go into OUTER SPACE

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Kitchen dreams are coming true...

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

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> FASHION CONFIDENTIAL

p. 16

BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY

p. 18

WARDROBE MASTER

p.24

NEW GENERATION Shot by Mario Testino, on the streets of Mayfair, the new Burberry campaign for AW15 features a cast of 12 young British actors, musicians and models including Clara Paget, Ella Richards and Tom Odell. burberry.com

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st y l e C e n t r a l

Snakeskin, culottes and statement sandals are at the top of our must-buy list this August Wo r d s c h a r l o t t e a d s e t t

SELFPORTRAIT Wo r d s s t e p h a n i e k i n g

loggers fawn over it; celebrities to wear it; and us, we B clamour just simply want to get our hands on it. Self-portrait, the luxury womenswear label founded in 2013 by Han Chong, is technically an emerging brand; but with such a refined aesthetic and such a clearly defined vision, self-portrait appears as established as the Valentinos and Elie Saabs of this world.

The Central Saint Martins alumnus enrobes names such as Reese Witherspoon, Miranda Kerr and Rachel McAdams; yet its figure-flattering cuts are for every shape.

Chong uses guipere lace, embroidery and layered textiles to celebrate the female form, where each piece is a veritable head-turner.

It is for this very reason that every occasion simply demands a self-portrait ensemble.

So with all of our diaries brimming with spring/summer weddings, consider selfportrait’s Pre-Fall ’15 collection your go-to brand. Pick from an array of semi sheer midi dresses, with underlays highlighting gingham and leaf patterns; culottes and co-ord tops with exaggerated box pleat peplums; and a colour palette of black, bordeaux, white and steel blue. With a self-portrait wedding wardrobe, you’ll look so good it will make the relatively miniscule price you pay (for a designer brand, that is) even sweeter. u ● SELF-PORTRAIT From, £140; self-portrait-studio.com

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Making Waves Melissa Odabash

If you are still looking for that dream swimsuit, bikini or kaftan for your summer holiday, then look no further than swimwear designer to the stars, Melissa Odabash. Melissa’s striking brights and trademark animal prints are a hit with the A-list including Kate Middleton, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Kate Moss. melissaodabash.com

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FASHION / NOTES

7

BAGS OF STYLE Liberty Bags

of the best

Liberty London have updated their much loved ‘Iphis’ print handbag and accessories with a new embossed leather range.

From classic totes and backpacks, through to wallets and iPad cases – all available in a rainbow of colours – this is a seriously covetable collection.

‘Marlborough’ Large Leather Tote, £595; liberty.co.uk

SNAKESKIN Python is the animal print of the season

02

01

editor’s

THE HOT STEPPER

PICK

Paula Cademartori S hoes

One of our favourite handbag designers Paula Cademartori has recently launched her much anticipated shoe line, and we couldn’t be more in lust.

The ‘Lotus’ sandal combines intricate Italian craftsmanship and celebrates the namesake flower with laser cut detailing and lace up straps. From £740; paulacademartori.com

03

04

WIDE ANGLE Culottes

The Fash Pack have been wearing them for a while – the early adopters that they are – now wide leg culottes suddenly seem super wearable and the thing we most want to buy. Find the right length for your height and team with high sandals for the most flattering silhouette.

Roksanda, £775; net-a-porter.com

06

05

HAUTE HIPPIE Vy s h y v a n k a B y V i k a K i n

The current fashion hit of Instagram is cult label Vyshyvanka by Vita Kin, whose bohemian bell sleeve embroidered dresses have caused mega waiting lists around the world. The dresses aren’t currently stocked in the UK, but we have been assured that Matches and Net-a-Porter will be stocking for early August. Phew.

Prices from £1,100; coming soon at matchesfashion.com + net-a-porter.com

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07

01. SAINT LAURENT Sandals, £710; farfetch.com 02. MARNI Handbag, £1,930; net-a-porter.com 03. BARBARA BUI Vest, £102; yoox.com 04. DIANE VON FURSTENBERG Skirt, £240; farfetch.com 05. MELISSA ODABASH Bikini, £81; theoutnet.com 06. ZIMMERMANN, Dress, £195 net-a-porter.com 07. ANCIENT GREEK Sandals, £200; ancient-greek-sandals.com

AUGUST 2015

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Leopard print silk jumpsuit, £210; Rosamosario at theoutnet.com Headpiece, £425; Eugenia Kim at Liberty Earrings, £120 and bangles, £45 each; Pebble London Ring on first finger, £190; Maria Francesca Pepe and on third finger, £108; Maria Black Rug and cushions from a selection; rajtentclub.com

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BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY Mix clashing prints, suede and billowing chiffons for a modern hippie-luxe P h o t o g r a p h y S q u i z H a m i lt o n Styling charlotte adsett

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Leopard print bikini, £140; Rosamosario at theoutnet.com Chiffon kaftan, £825; Matthew Williamson Bangle, £45; Pebble London Silk turban, £180; Etro at Liberty Suede tasselled boots, £975; Paul Andrew at avenue32.com Ring on first finger, £190; Maria Francesca Pepe and on third finger, £108; Maria Black

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Silk scarf worn as top, £375; Liberty London at Liberty Felt hat, £375; The Season Hats Chiffon wide-leg trousers, £495; Anna Sui at net-a-porter.com Sandals, £395; Jimmy Choo Earrings, £375 and rings, from £196; Vicki Sarge

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Suede embroidered kimono jacket, £3,975, and trousers, £2,595; Matthew Williamson Headpiece, £222; Joubi London Earrings £398; Vicky Sarge Ring on right hand £218; Vicki Sarge, ring on left hand, £180; Maria Francesca Pepe

PHOTOGRAPHY Squiz Hamilton FASHION EDITOR Charlotte Adsett MODEL Thayna Brito at Next MAKE-UP Hilla Karmand using Cosmetics a la Carte HAIR Roger Cho using Lauren’s Way FASHION ASSISTANT Rachel Doyle WITH THANKS TO: The Fulham Palace and the use of their gardens which are available for weddings and private event hire; fulhampalace.org Rugs and cushions used throughout available from rajtentclub.com STOCKISTS avenue32.com jimmychoo.com joubi.co.uk liberty.co.uk maria-black.com matthewwilliamson.com mfpepe.com net-a-porter.com pebblelondon.com rajtentclub.com robertocavalli.com theoutnet.com theseasonhats.com vickisarge.com

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THE NEW AUTUMN COLLECTION 2015 NOW AVAILABLE IN STORE & ONLINE OSKA 20 Montpelier Vale London SE3 0TA T 0208 852 9774 blackheath.oska.com OSKA 71 Heath Street London NW3 6UG T 0207 433 1482 hampstead.oska.com

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FASHION / MEN’S STYLE

Wo r d s T e o va n d e n B r o e k e Senior style editor of British Esquire

The Classic

Adidas, Adidas by Raf Simons x Stan Smith Sneakers, £460; farfetch.com

Complete the look with these three essential separates

The Smarter Option

Ralph Lauren, Tan ‘Severn’ Calfskin Sneaker, £410; ralphlauren.com

The Runner

Nike free 5.0 in black/anthasyte, £100; nike.com

The Fashion Sneaker

Dior White Leather Emroidered Sneaker, £780; dior.com

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GIORGIO ARMANI, AW15

The Slip On

Lanvin, Calf Hair and Suede Slip-on Sneaker, £512; neimanmarcus.com

The T-Shirt

Wardrobe Master

Kilgour, Black Silk T-Shirt; No.5 Saville Row

Why the only shoes you should be wearing right now is a pair of solid, sporty sneakers

T

he current mood in menswear is one inspired by the increasing prevalence of sportswear both on and off the runways. Season after season the designers are moving further and further away from the trussedup three piece suit and tie look, which was championed in the hit TV series Mad Men, favouring instead a softer approach. In the place of super slim cut trousers now come baggy double and triple pleated slacks cut from fabrics more commonly associated with sporting pursuits, such as Jersey and pique. Tailored jackets are deconstructed and soft in the shoulder, closer resembling cardigans. In place of shirts and ties, T-shirts and

grandad collared shirts in seersucker and silk are being worn. What’s surprising is the brands which are spearheading this move toward softness. Italian tailoring heavyweights Giorgio Armani, Ermenegildo Zegna and Brunello Cucinelli are all championing a slouchier, more comfort-focused approach. The most obvious example of this shift is the menswear industry’s wholehearted embrace of the sneaker. There’s not one brand who, this season or last, didn’t send out a suit or separates combo teamed with a souped-up running trainer, a tennis shoe or a slip on skate shoe. From Raf Simons’ minimalist take on Adidas’ iconic Stan Smith, to Lanvin’s effortlessly chic slip ons, right now it’s all about sneakers.

Here’s my pick of the best. u

The Trousers

Emporio Armani, Trousers in Wool and Seersucker Blend in Dark Blue, £168; armani.com

The Jacket

Berluti, Cashmere-felt Blazer, £2,800; mrporter.com

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BATH SORTS

BATHROOM DESIGN SPECIALISTS

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

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Transform your life with the help of Valerina Brookes a natural Healer and certified Metamorphic Technique practitioner.

With her 20 years’ training and experience in alternative medicine, Valerina uses a soothing touch on your feet, hands and head, to help you to shift deep unwanted habits and energy patterns that no longer serve you.

What you think of yourself and your life often becomes a pattern. Unresolved patterns can surface as mental or physical illness, emotional problems, or limiting attitudes and behaviour.

Following Metamorphic Touch sessions with Valerina, clients have experienced: • Headache relief • Ankle pain relief • Increased energy • Clarity of thought • Creativity boost • Increased self-confidence and self-awareness • Deep transformative shifts

FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION 07736 406 858, contact@metamorphictouch.co.uk www.metamorphictouch.co.uk

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06/07/2015 17:19

> BEAUTY CONFIDENTIAL

p. 28

FITNESS CONFIDENTIAL

p. 31

MELLOW YELLOW It’s never too early to start thinking about the beauty trends you’re going to channel in autumn, we suggest taking inspiration from Peter Pilotto’s AW15 show and roughly line your eyes with mustard yellow. maccosmetics.com

27 CHIS_AUG15_Beauty_Opener.indd 27

AUGUST 2015

16/07/2015 14:48

B E AU T Y R e v i e w

Let your true self shine through this August, with no make up and shades of beige W o r d s R o m y va n d e n B r o e k e

VANIDAY

The brand new beauty, fitness and wellbeing app Wo r d s c at h e r i n e h a l e s

I

n this day and age, convenience is everything. Our shortened attention spans and lengthened workdays mean we expect instant solutions. Having the city at your fingertips has been made possible with restaurant apps and conceirge platforms so it’s unsurprising that a beauty and wellness offering wasn’t far behind.

Vaniday have a carefully curated catalogue of salons, nail bars and yoga studios arranged according to your location. Their specialised service will also link you to experts in a range of fields including personal trainers, yoga instructors and masage therapists among many others.

As I find it next to impossible to squeeze in the time to organise hair and nail apointments (let alone yoga!), Vaniday proved to be a

HAVING THE CITY

at your fingertips is NOW POSSIBLE

brilliantly painless way to find a nearby salon and book within a matter of minutes. I chose to get my nails done at Soho nail bar Cucumba, where I had some white gels applied expertly by an incredibly friendly nail technician whilst taking a break from my hectic day.

Whether you’re looking for an easy way to make a serious change by hiring a trainer or just want a way to book beauty appointments on the fly, Vaniday is an essential addition to your smartphone homepage. ◆

● VA N I D AY Throughout central London; Download for free in the App Store

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

C&A_AUG15_Beauty_Notes.indd 28

Being Beige Chanel

Still searching for the perfect summer make up? Look no further, Chanel have nailed it with their Les Beiges 2015 collection. Modelled here by the original bronze goddess, Gisele Bündchen, choose from muted peaches, soft tawny and pastel pinks. chanel.com

28 16/07/2015 14:46

HEALTH & BEAUTY / NOTES editor’s

PICK

8 of the best

HAIR REMOVERS NO MAKE UP Perricone MD

The biggest beauty trend of 2015 is one of the hardest trends to pull off: the no make up look. Luckily Perricone MD have just released a collection of skincare make up which subtly covers and keeps your skin healthy. Our hero product is the No Foundation Foundation, which works to minimise wrinkles and correct undertones. perrriconemd.co.uk

01

best

BUY

OVER THE RAINBOW Maria Nila

If you’ve missed the pastel hair trend this summer you must have been living under a rock – or at least somewhere without Instagram. Our favourite temporary pastel look comes from Maria Nila; her Azure Colour Refresh will make you hair mermaid-tastic. marianila.com

03

02

PEACHY POUT M AC C o s m e t i c s

04

Paint a peach hue onto your pout this summer with either subtle apricot or bright coral. Expert tip: make sure you set them off against bronzed skin.

Try one of these MAC’s lipsticks – one of which has just launched in collaboration with Giambattista Valli – for the perfect summer accessory. maccosmetics.co.uk

05

06

07

SUNNY SIDE UP Bobbi Brown

Still the face of Bobbi Brown, Kate Upton models the brand’s Sandy Nudes collection with ease. The collection has been updated for summer 2015 with a delicious body oil, summer bronzers and a gorgeous set of nail varnishes in a creamy pale pink and pale mushroom shades. bobbibrown.co.uk

29 C&A_AUG15_Beauty_Notes.indd 29

08

1. BRAUN SILK-EPIL 9, £149.99; boots.com 2. PEARL POLISH, DUAL ACTION BODY OIL, £28; thegroomingclinic.com 3. BLISS, FUZZ OFF FOAM, £26.00; blissworld.co.uk 4. VEET, EASY GRIP READY-TO-USE WAX STRIPS, £7.29; ocado.com 5. MONU, PRO SKINCARE DEPIL LOTION, £14.95; monushop.co.uk 6. NO!NO!, PRO GOLD LIMITED EDITION, £210; harrods.com 7. VICHY, DERMABLEND TOTAL BODY FOUNDATION, £29.50; boots.com 8. ACQUA DI PARMA, COLLEZIONE BARBIERE RAZOR & STAND, £240.00; acquadiparma.co.uk

AUGUST 2015

16/07/2015 14:47

VIP CLUB

SIMON BETTS PERSONAL TRAINING GET FIT... FEEL HEALTHIER

BE MORE PRODUCTIVE

It’s free and easy to join at www.headmasters.com for 25% OFF all hair services and other benefits Terms and conditions apply

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Headmasters Camden 104 Camden High Street, Camden, London NW1 0LU 0345 459 7746

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www.headmasters.com

HEADMASTERS.indd 1 _ADVERT PLACEMENTS_AUG.indd 1

20/07/2015 17:21

20/07/2015 17:22

Q&A

HEALTH & BEAUTY / NOTES PLAY BALL

This tennis season, make sure you play in RolandGarros’ collection at Lacoste. Afterall, “without style, playing and winning are not enough”. lacoste.com

A DAY IN THE LIFE of a BOOM cycle instructor B y B a n g s C A R E Y- C A M B E L L

Talk me through your typical day I’ve always been an early riser. I’ll get up around 5:30AM and will either go for a run or take some quiet meditation time. After I shower, I have breakfast, which is the same everyday (oatmeal with blueberries and a cup of Earl Grey), then I’ll walk my dog.

Once I’m back at the house, my work day formally begins. I run two websites, write for some others, do some social media for other brands, some consultancy and am generally working towards total global domination on any given day, so my ideal afternoons are the ones where I get to just write. ◆

Fitness

CONFIDENTIAL Get in shape with the top fitness trends, tips and gear Wo r d s e l i z a b e t h h u t t o n

Do you teach BOOM Cycle every day?

I teach five days a week. It doesn’t take much for me to get pumped for class ‘cause I genuinely love it. I’m a very energetic person so by the time my class rolls around, I’m happy for the chance to burn off some of that energy and it’s just a nice change of pace from all the sitting at a computer that I do. ◆

I SCREAM! Oppo

rying to be good but fancy a bowl of ice cream? Us too. Why not opt for the healthy alternative from Oppo.

Packed with superfoods, natural ingredients and no refined sugar, we could certainly get used to this. oppoicecream.co.uk T

How do you feel after a class?

Absolutely PUMPED! There is nothing better than an endorphin high. I love seeing people sweaty and smiling. ◆

What do you do besides BOOM? I run my websites, bangsandabun.com and spikesandheels.com. I have a podcast you can find on my website, I write and read a lot, run a lot (training for London Marathon), spend time with my dog and catch up with friends. ◆

What do you like to do in the evening?

I try to stop working on whatever it is I’m doing on that day by around 8pm and wind down. This year I’m trying to get into reading more literature so that’s taking up a lot of my evening time right now and I find it’s the perfect way to relax after a long day. ◆

Boy’s Club

With sleek lines and seamless technology, activewear brand, Every Second Counts, is one of our favourites. To launch their new range for men, ESC called upon Esquire’s fitness man of the moment, Harry Jameson, to model the gear. So guys, get involved, you’ll never look so good. everysecondcounts.com

boomcycle.co.uk

31 C&A_JULY15_Health.indd 31

AUGUST 2015

16/07/2015 15:01

CROCKER’S FOLLY

OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK. 24 Aberdeen Place, St Johns Wood, London NW8 8JR. Nearest tube stations: Warwick Avenue, Maida Vale, St John’s Wood To make a reservation, please call +44 (0) 207 289 9898 or email reservations@crockersfolly.com

www.crockersfolly.com

ENQUIRE ABOUT RENTING OUR LUXURY APARTMENTS AT THIS PRESTIGIOUS LOCATION CROCKERS & FOLLY.indd 1

17/07/2015 15:03

> KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL

p. 35

REVIEW: THE STERLING

p. 39

CHERRY ON THE CAKE Cherries are in season, so make the most of these tasty treats and whip them up into a cherry and almond tarte รก la Natalie Coleman, the winner of 2013 Masterchef. nataliecolemanchef.co.uk

33 CHIS_AUG15_Food_Opener.indd 33

AUGUST 2015

16/07/2015 15:05

GREAT NORTHERN HOTEL . KING’S CROSS ST PANCRAS STATION . PANCRAS ROAD . LONDON

. N1C 4TB

WWW.PLUMANDSPILTMILK.COM . RESERVATIONS@PLUMANDSPILTMILK.COM . T: 020 3388 0818

GNH_ABSOLUTE_JULY_P+SM_FINAL.indd 1 GNH.indd 1

10/07/2015 13/07/2015 19:31 14:14

What to drink

FOOD & DRINK / NOTES

A GREAT MATCH Wine & food pairings for the month of August B y J a n e Pa r k i n s o n

Peach, Prosciutto & Mozzarella Salad

eaches reign supreme this month, but let’s not confine them the puddings alone. The sweet juiciness of ripe peach works so well with the Pinot Gris grape, and especially those from New Zealand which usually deliver richer fruit. This one tastes of ripe pears drizzled with honey but it’s still dry and perky, and matches perfectly with the dish, even without the prosciutto. ◆

P

TABLE TALK

Frozen treats, signature cocktails and wine pairings

by Jane Parkinson are all on the menu this month

Ara Single Vineyard Pinot Gris 2014

FRO-YO DIET

£10.99 Waitrose; waitrose.com

T h e S l o a n e B r o s F r o z e n Yo g h u r t C o .

Indulgent, innovative and independently owned: the three ‘Is’ we love to use to describe our food. This newly opened dessert bar serves up fat-free (yes, you read that correctly) frozen yoghurt made and decorated exclusively with ingredients by British suppliers. We’ll have five, please. ◆ l 214 Brick Lane, E1; sloanebrothers.co.uk

Roast Grouse with Blackcurrant Sauce

he grouse season hints that autumn isn’t too far away, and with this bird’s trademark delicate but gamey flavour a lighter, earthy red is the best bet. That could mean Pinot Noir, but a more interesting alternative would be the new trendy Italian red, Etna Rosso from Sicily, which is mostly made from a local grape called Nerello Mascalese. This smells like dried flowers but it’s fruity enough on the palate to match this sauce but finishes savoury. ◆

T

Nicosia Etna Rosso 2012 £9.99 Marks & Spencer; marksandspencer.com

Fresh Cherries

ometimes simplicity is best, and when it comes to freshly-picked S cherries surely there can be no better pudding to serve? Except that everything can be enhanced by a wine, of course! This Californian wine is a rare little treat, a sweet red that’s bursting with fruit flavour, everything from blackberries to a zingy twist of orange. ◆

Andrew Quady Elysium Black Muscat 2012 £10.99 Wine Rack (37.5cl); majestic.co.uk

janeparkinson.com

ALL THAT JAZZ Ka n s a s S m i t ty’s roadway Market’s latest opening, Kansas B Smitty’s is all about atmosphere. Termed a ‘Jazz and Juleps’ bar, Kansas Smitty’s seeks to bring a taste of the Deep South to the capital with its signature cocktail menu and offering of live music every week. l 63 Broadway Market, E8; kansassmittys.com

PRODUCT OF THE MONTH

In addition to their Champagne ice lollies, POPS have introduced a Bellini POP as well as two non-alcoholic POPS in Strawberry & Mint and Apple & Elderflower. l Available at The Parlour, E14; theparlourbar.co.uk

35 C&A_August15_Food_Notes.indd 35

FEELING FRUITY Maison Pierre Marcolini Master chocolatier and modern day Willy Wonka, Pierre Marcolini has released a new collection entitled ‘Pastel’.

Designed to be eaten straight out of the fridge, these beauties contain real lime, passion fruit, mango and yuzu encased in delicious white, milk and dark chocolate. ◆ l £11.90 - £35; marcolini.com

AUGUST 2015

16/07/2015 15:06

CROCKER’S FOLLY The reopening of Crocker’s Folly has given London the chance to reacquaint itself with one of its most glorious edifices. This beautiful Grade II* listed former Victorian gin palace, complete with 50 kinds of marble, Romanesque columns and glass chandeliers, has been painstakingly restored by the renowned Maroush Group. The stylish restaurant and bar serves modern European food – complemented by a selection of wine and signature cocktails.

24 Aberdeen Place, NW8, 020 7289 9898 crockersfolly.com

Taste of

SUMMER Tickle your taste buds during these sunny months as Absolutely recommends some of its favourite summer restaurants, treats and local culinary delights

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

C&A_August15_Sales_Feature.indd 36

OKSI’S At Oksi’s, they combine the flavours of your favourite cocktail with a cake to create the ultimate dessert. Their brilliant range of cocktail cakes include Bellini, Irish Coffee and Mojito sponges. Forget artificial icing and heavy buttercream cakes, at Oksi’s the treats are all about texture and taste.

Catering for any big or small occasion, go online to find out about their signature and classic collections. 074 9435 0770; oksis.co.uk

36 17/07/2015 15:43

ABSOLUTELY / PROMOTION

BOHO MEXICA Boho Mexica is a strong contender for the crown of best Mexican restaurant in East London. Free from the usual Mexican cliches (sombreros, droopy moustaches), it is rich in imaginative culinary ideas. A low-key, low-lit ambiance is the backdrop to authentic and interesting Mexican dishes while the cocktails (of which there are many) are on another level.

151-153 Commercial Street, E1, 020 7377 8418, bohomexica.co.uk

PAXTON CHOCOLATE

‘SMITHS,’ SPITALFIELDS

Experience a complete sensory shopping experience at this chocolate shop located just off Brick Lane in Shoreditch. Choose from 14 irresistible flavours to create your own personalised box, or select from the Signature, Dark and other ranges. Bespoke orders are welcome, and you can order online for direct postage to loved ones further afield.

38 Cheshire Street, E2; 020 8127 8807; paxtonchocolate.com

All-day dining doesn’t come much more iconic than Smiths, Spitalfields. Housed in a fourstorey industrial edifice with a café, dining room and bar serving amazing £6 cocktails (and bottles of Prosecco for £15), the eatery caters for local residents, workers and visitors – and has the lively vibe and cool decor to suit pretty much any occasion.

109 Commercial Street, E1; thisissmiths.com/spitalfields

MICHAEL NADRA This 2 AA Rosette restaurant, bar and garden serves haute cusine in the heart of Primrose Hill, on the Regents Canal.

The Grade II listed building provides the perfect dining setting while the restaurant’s philosophy reflects that of Nadra’s talents.

Expect incredible food, served in a relaxed and vibrant environment with great Alfresco dining and lunch time deals this summer.

42 Gloucester Avenue, NW1, 020 7722 2800; restaurant-michaelnadra.co.uk/primrose

37 C&A_August15_Sales_Feature.indd 37

AUGUST 2015

17/07/2015 12:16

87 NOTTING HILL GATE, W11 3JZ, 020 7221 2884

SANTITOS.indd 2

26/03/2015 12:19

FOOD & DRINK / RESTAURANT REVIEW The Sterling’s

RECENT OVERHAUL

rouses visions of cool MANHATTAN bars

Power Munch

Your choice of culinary options in the City just got even better, as The Sterling proves it’s not only for the corporate crowd Wo r d s s t e p h a n i e k i n g

G

one are the antiquated days of the power lunch, in which highflying executives treat themselves to a threehour imbibing session masquerading as a “business meeting.” No, today it’s all about the power munch, where colleagues-turned-friends bounce ideas off of one another over cocktails and finger food. But which eatery is responsible for driving this dining phenomenon? Liverpool Street’s The Sterling, of course.

And why wouldn’t it be? Situated in the City’s epicentre, on the ground floor of

one of London’s most iconic structures, the Gherkin, The Sterling has positioned itself figuratively and literally smack-bang in the middle of Corporate Territory.

Its recent overhaul rouses visions of cool Manhattan bars, the Financial District-esque mahogany and steel finishes adding to its sophisticated feel.

While the upstairs champagne bar and fine dining restaurant provide wonderful views through ceiling-length windows, downstairs is really where the action’s at.

And so this is where my dinner date and I started off proceedings, selecting The Sterling champagne cocktail and Bramble from its extensive, appropriately named “Drinks Compendium.” Our

39 C&A_AUG15_Review_THE STERLING.indd 39

respective beverages were zingy accompaniments to the incredibly succulent Peanut Butter, Coconut, Lemongrass & Green Chilli Chicken Skewers served with a moreish lime and yoghurt dressing. For mains we did our part to sample The Sterling’s best offerings: an 8oz British Beef Burger, and Roasted Mushroom & Caramelised Onion and Prosciutto San Daniele & Halkidiki Olive Hand-Pulled Pizzettas.

The burger’s classic combination of little gem lettuce, red onion and tomato on a toasted brioche bun was, unsurprisingly, a great partner to its patty made even juicier with the house’s special romesco sauce. Naturally we thought it best to amplify the authentic Italian flavours of our pizzettas with Ginchello cocktails comprising Beefeater gin, limoncello, homemade red currant syrup, lychee puree and Prosecco.

Finishing off the meal we halved The Sterling’s Chocolate Brownie with Ice Cream. The slab-sized portion was ideal for sharing, and its crunchy exterior and fudge-y inside was too addictive to leave uneaten.

All in all? Sure, The Sterling’s key audience is likely to remain the local workers, but its food, and cocktails especially, are two things certainly worth braving the City streets for. u

● ●The Sterling 30 St Mary Axe, EC3A 8BF thesterlingbar.co.uk

AUGUST 2015

16/07/2015 15:08

Summer family

Kids go free

2015 t s u g u A 0 3 27 July – rt Museum anspo r T n o d n o L at E 7BB n WC2 Covent Garde

thames nipper thames snipper Costumer care

WC2E

7BB

MR MEN ™ LITTLE MISS ™ © 2015 THOIP (a SANRIO company). All rights reserved.

Supported by DCMS/Wolfson Fund Luke Rees-Pulley Charitable Trust Optare

LONDON TRANSPORT MUSEUM.indd 1

14/07/2015 12:37

> SMALL TALK: TOP BUYS FOR KIDS THIS AUGUST

p. 43

MOTHER TONGUE

p. 45

PETIT BATEAU Jetting off to a holiday resort? This collaboration between French designer Jean-Charles de Castelbajac and Petit Bateau should be your first port of call. Think poncho raincoats, marinieres in bright canvas fabric and nautical tees with a cheeky twist.

Launching in October; petit-bateau.co.uk

41 CHIS_AUG15_Kids_Notes.indd 41

AUGUST 2015

16/07/2015 15:16

Lancing College

CHARTERHOUSE

CANFORD

SANCTON WOOD SCHOOL

The

Falcons

Meet the big names of British education

At the Independent Schools Show, 200 of the leading schools gather for a weekend in Battersea Park to meet prospective pupils. This is the UK’s biggest school open day.

There is no better place to choose a school that is exactly right for your child’s needs. Meet the Heads and talk to the Admissions teams. Find out about entrance requirements, scholarships & bursaries. Register.

Unquestionably this will be the most productive time your family will ever spend in a park.

www.schoolsshow.com a4 iss ad v4.indd 1 ISS.indd 1

Saturday 14 November 10:00 - 17:00 Sunday 15 November 11:00 - 16:30 Battersea Evolution, Battersea Park, London, SW11 4NJ

18/06/2015 14/07/2015 14:44 16:01

KIDS & EDUCATION / NOTES FANCIFUL Fa n c y K i d s

Fancy Kids is a new online shopping destination stocking clothes, toys and lifestyle accessories for style-conscious parents. You’ll find established designers such as Marie-Chantal and Hucklebones – and better still, every piece has been cherry-picked for its ethical credentials.

TRIED

&TESTED

fancykids.com

BT VIDEO BABY MONITOR 7000 Wo r d s H E L E N B A R O N

I

SMALL TALK Super soft sandals, a giant pink flamingo and the best in kids’ summer fashion

CHILD’S PLAY B on Tot

Our current cyber-crush is this curated collection of design-led kid’s clothing and toys, sourced from independent brands around the world. Prepare to covet the hand-knitted jumpers, Liberty print bloomers and organic baby grows. bon-tot.com

n the early days of parenthood, mother and baby are often inseparable, but as little ones grow and (hopefully) learn to rest independently, you’ll probably want some way to stay connected while you get on with all the things you’ve put aside for the last weeks and months.

Step forward the BT Video Baby Monitor 7000 – which is so much more than a glorified walkie-talkie.

With HD video and sound, you can hear and see your baby clearly - even the tiniest breath comes through loud and clear – and a handy thermometer alerts you if the temperature falls or rises beyond predefined levels. The unit can also play a string of soothing lullabies or nature sounds and project a pretty light-show onto walls or ceilings, so baby has something to distract her if she awakes wondering, ‘Where’s Mum?’ The bad side? No more excuses for not doing the washing-up… ◆

£149; shop.bt.com

HAPPY FEET

BLOW UP

¢ Riding the popularity of their handmade mini moccasins, independent label Monkey & Mole has expanded its repertoire to include summery sandals. Super soft for babies’ delicate (and fast-growing) feet – and simply adorbs. £36; monkeyandmole.com

¢ No splash in the pool is complete without a supersize inflatable. The world is your oyster – or, indeed, flamingo – with this impressive and very pink friend, which is big enough to accommodate adults as well as kids. £49; cissywears.co.uk

Monkey & Mole

cissywears

43 CHIS_August15_Kids_Notes.indd 43

AUGUST 2015

16/07/2015 15:15

GIFTS

•

CLOTHING

•

CARDS

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

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

SUBLIME.indd 1

11/02/2015 11:55

KIDS & EDUCATION / SCHOOL TALK

ASK THE EXPERT

Mother Tongue

Amanda Constance reports on the UK’s first English-Mandarin bilingual nursery Wo r d s A M a n d a C o n s ta n c e

david w el l esl ey w esl ey Fo under Indepe n d e n t Sch ool s Sh ow

STATE Versus PRIVATE he argument of state versus private education is T unending and inconclusive.

It is perhaps simplest just to apply the idea that, ‘one size does not fit all’. Finances are often the driver in the decision of whether to place your child in a state or independent school. To privately educate a child from nursery through to university costs an average of £150,000. This exorbitant figure means it is an option available to few.

As such, mixing and matching between state and private schools during the formative years, can provide a valuable balance.

Supporting a child at state school with private tuition can also be a successful way of ensuring they have access to one-to-one teaching.

In spite of much controversy, independent schools do have a higher success rate of pupils going on to higher education than the state sector.

As such, if only an option for sixth form, going private at this stage could be hugely beneficial for your child. ◆

Private education

is INCREASINGLY becoming a LUXURY and INVESTMENT

W

hen a friend bought Mandarin flash cards for her nanny to brandish in front of her dribbling toddler, I thought she was mad. But go onto the internet and you will see she is not alone; Mandarin flash cards, printable pdfs, downloadable apps – they are all there at the click of a button, every tool needed to turn your pre-school child into a world-beating Sinologue before their fifth birthday.

The government announced last year that it’s putting Mandarin on the national curriculum and training 1,200 more teachers in the language by the end of the decade. Independent schools are ahead of the state sector, with many now including Mandarin either within the curriculum or offered as an extra-curricular activity.

But Mandarin for toddlers? Do parents really want their infants mastering what is now the world’s most spoken language before they are out of nappies?

The people behind the UK’s first bilingual Mandarin-English day nursery certainly think so. Hatching Dragons, housed in a church hall round the corner from the Barbican, opened in May. It is much like any other nursery except the staff are predominantly Chinese and they employ a 50:50 split between English and Mandarin when speaking to the children.

Hatching Dragons is the brainchild of educational consultant Cennydd John. He had the idea for the nursery when he was looking for childcare for his young son.

“I started thinking about what I would value in a nursery environment. I’d been to China, studied at a Chinese university but then I’d struggled with the language since. And so it dawned on me that having an immersion experience between the ages of nought and five would be a way for my son to pick up Mandarin immediately and naturally.”

45 CHIS_AUG15_Education.indd 45

Mandarin is not ‘taught’ at Hatching Dragons, there is no hot-housing or formal lessons, the idea is that the toddlers will simply pick it up through exposure at such a young age. This is nothing new, many nurseries in London offer the same experience with French or German. And well-heeled families have long hired nannies who speak a foreign language for their young families. Charles Bonas, founder of blue-chip educational consultancy Bonas MacFarlane says they are placing more and more Mandarin speaking nannies with families, particularly in Singapore and Hong Kong where the family’s mother tongue is English or Cantonese.

The most obvious reason for Mandarin to be in vogue is that as Chinese reaches economic superpower status parents want to give their children the edge in a competitive world.

Nearly 17% of the planet’s population are native Mandarin speakers, English speakers come in at 5%. Native French speakers? They barely scrape in at 1%. In many ways, the UK is behind the curve on offering English-Mandarin bilingual nurseries, there are already more than 180 in the US. ◆ hatching-dragons.com

AUGUST 2015

16/07/2015 14:51

ABSOLUTELY / PROMOTION

Customers praise LAUNDRAPP for being FLEXIBLE to their BUSY LIFESTYLES

CLEAN MACHINE London’s most popular laundry app gives you more free time this summer!

D

id you know that the average family spends five hours on laundry every week? That’s over 23,000 hours of your life spent sorting, washing, folding and ironing when you could be doing something fun instead!

That’s why Laundrapp was created: a new on-demand laundry and dry cleaning app that takes care of your washing in just 30 seconds, not five hours.

How it works is simple: just download the app or place an order online. A friendly Laundrapp driver will collect your clothes at a time you choose, take them to be professionally cleaned at Laundrapp’s local facilities, then bring them back at a time and place that suits you.

It’s the first laundry and dry cleaning service for modern Londoners and it’s available seven days a week.

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

C&A_August15_Laundrapp.indd 46

Collection and delivery – anytime, anywhere Building London’s most popular dry cleaning and laundry app hasn’t been easy, but by remaining flexible and easy to use, Laundrapp has achieved exactly that – all without costing more than a regular dry cleaners.

“Laundrapp offers a professional service but we remain very affordable,” says Laundrapp CEO Edward Relf. “We clean and press shirts from just £2.50 each and we offer professional, delivered dry cleaning from as little as £1.50 too.”

More important than the price is the level of convenience Laundrapp offers though, says Relf. Many customers praise Laundrapp for being flexible to their busy lifestyles and the team is always on standby to go the extra mile.

One customer even arranged to have his laundry delivered to his local pub so he wouldn’t miss his pub quiz, says Relf “Life in London is always hectic and

everyone in the city is different. Some people cycle to work and want freshly pressed shirts delivered to the office, for example. Others are new parents who don’t want to hang clothes around the flat or listen to a noisy washing machine full of baby clothes every night. Either way, Laundrapp can help.”

A modern day dry cleaning service on your phone One of the biggest frustrations Laundrapp solves is the hassle of finding and carrying your clothes to a local dry cleaner. Dry cleaners in the UK have shrunk drastically over recent decades but Relf believes the time is ripe for a resurgence.

Laundrapp’s free collection and delivery service is key to this as expecting customers to bring dirty clothes to a bricks and mortar shop isn’t realistic anymore. There’s simply too much to do in London!

By offering a more convenient way to do dry cleaning and by working exclusively with the very best local partners, Laundrapp is supporting local businesses at the same time as offering great benefits to Londoners. u

DOWNLOAD LAUNDRAPP FOR YOUR PHONE OR ORDER ONLINE TODAY AT l au n drapp.c o m Save £10 on your first order with the voucher code ‘ABSOLUTELY’.

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> CHILL AND THRILL: DISCOVER BOTH SIDES OF THE MAURITIUS EXPERIENCE

p. 48

ADVENTURE TIME Mauritius: come for the white sands, crystal sea and azure skies, stay for the charming towns, vibrant markets and thrilling exploits in the mountains. Catherine Hales discovers all Mauritius has to offer, read on for more...

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XXXXXX / XXXXXXX

HOLIDAY

CHILL & THRILL There is adventure to be had on the island of Mauritius Wo r d s c at h e r i n e h a l e s

T

he thoughts that go through your mind while standing on a swaying bridge over a ravine, staring at your feet to judge your next step, are many and varied. ‘Why am I doing this?’, ‘If I fall will the safety wire hold?’ And, finally, ‘Did I leave my hair straighteners on?’ That last one I attribute to hysteria and the willingness to worry about anything other than plunging downwards into the river below. I was in Casela Nature Park, a reserve in the western part of Mauritius, home to a profusion of wildlife that offers several different activities, including quad biking, canyon swinging and ziplining. My driving skills aren’t up to much and, frankly, canyon swinging sounds petrifying, so ziplining it was. That was how I found myself, dressed incredibly impractically in a dress and leggings, midbridge and practically mid-panic attack.

For many, Mauritius represents the epitome of beach holiday relaxation.

Miles of white coastline, crystal waters and blazing sun make it a tourist magnet, renowned for its luxury hotels. One such hotel is the Royal Palm Mauritius, located in the North near the town of Grand Baie, where I stayed for five days. Living up to it’s name, scores of swaying palm trees populate the charming and tranquil resort, whose stunning suites look out over the beach. My room was an Ocean Suite that came with a postcardperfect view of said palms and the sea beyond. The generous terrace (complete with table and chairs) was ideal for enormous room-service breakfasts and snoozing in the shade in the afternoons.

Equipped with three restaurants, each serving a different type of cuisine, the temptation to stay in the resort is huge.

Those seeking ultimate relaxation could easily wander down from their rooms, straight onto the beach and stretch out one of the loungers reserved for Royal Palm guests. If a thirst hits mid-morning, they could order a fresh coconut water,

For many, MAURITIUS represents the EPITOME OF BEACH holiday RELAXATION

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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TRAVEL / ISLAND LIFE

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Fine fitted kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms

3,200 Square feet of contemporary kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms from Italy and Germany. Mark Nicholas Design one stop shopping for the finest home interiors on display in London. Why not call today to arrange a consultation to find out what we can do for you.

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TRAVEL / ISLAND LIFE ADVENTURE wasn’t A WORD I HAD previously ASSOCIATED with the ISLAND served in an enormous hollowed out coconut then for lunch, stroll down the beach to the discreetly positioned Le Bar Plage. This beautifully appointed restaurant’s menu comprises fish so fresh it’s practically wriggling, in addition to Western classics like steak tartare and Caesar salad. The afternoon can be spent in the Clarins spa, an oasis nestled in the secluded garden behind the hotel, trying out treatments (I recommend the full body massage) and being generally pampered. A host of watersports is also on offer for those after a more active afternoon; waterskiing and sailing are

particularly popular and the ocean is so warm that falling in is all part of the fun. Balmy evenings can be whiled away at the open-air bar on the main terrace, listening to the live band, before heading down to La Brezza, the hotel’s superb Italian restaurant, run by esteemed chef Alessandro Morino.

My only advice? Eat a light lunch because Alessandro serves up a feast and you won’t want to leave a bite.

As I mentioned before, Mauritius has luxury and leisure in spades. But what about adventure? It wasn’t a word I had previously associated with the island but, as I hung, hundreds of metres up, suspended from a wire, I decided I should rethink this. Ziplining aside, Mauritius has a vibrancy and vitality that it owes in part to its rich cultural heritage and diverse history.

Originally colonised by the Dutch, it was then taken over by France who renamed it Isle de France before it was invaded by the British in 1810, who promptly changed the name back.

It wasn’t until 1968 that Mauritius gained independence, although the French influence has remained strong.

Locals, many of whose forbears came to the island from both Africa and Asia tend to speak French and English but generally converse in Mauritian Creole.

Walking through both the small town of Grand Baie and the capital, Port Louis, there is much to see and, without generalising too much, an incredibly friendly populace to guide you through. On my day trip to Port Louis, I spent time roaming through the market, soaking up the sights

CATHERINE ZIPLINING IN CASELA PARK

and smells and doing a little souvenir shopping – I was sorely tempted to purchase a rather fetching puffer fish lamp but resisted the urge. Though less fraught than the bazaar in Istanbul, the market is similarly home to some real treasures and, if properly investigated, could easily yield interior design gold (puffer fish lamps notwithstanding).

It was, however in the smaller Grand Baie that I hit shopping paydirt with several shops selling bargain cashmere clothes and other textiles. In terms of food, fresh fish and seafood occupy every menu. For a casual lunch in Grand Baie, I would recommend the Beach House for its devilishly good battered shrimp and atmospheric live music, as well as its breezy beachside location.

My experiences, both flying through the air in Casela Park and trawling through the markets in Port Louis, as well as soaking up the sun and sailing on the sea, ticked every box on the holiday agenda, with more still to be experienced.

The terrain and climate of the island mean that the mountains are covered lush greenery, and are perfect for hiking and trekking. Those with a penchant for bathing in waterfalls can visit the Tamarind or Black River Falls or perhaps the brilliantly named Pamplemousses Botanical Garden. If you fancy a day trip off the island, catamarans go from Grand Baie to the small islands located north of the mainland. Whether you’re looking for adventure or a break from reality, Mauritius has it all. ◆ u Suite prices for September 2015. Prices are based on booking at least 30 days prior to travel. Nightly rates: Junior Suite – Bed & breakfast, cost per suite £395; Tropical Suite – BB, cost per suite £528; Ocean Suite – BB, cost per suite £579; Palm Suite – BB, cost per suite £773. Call Beachcomber on 01483 445 685 or visit beachcombertours.co.uk

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ABSOLUTELY LONDON

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TRAVEL / UK GETAWAY THE SITE This dreamy fairylit, bunting-strewn field houses six gleaming retro caravans, all of them sourced in the States and lovingly restored and decorated. The lovely Armstrong family moved their Airstream business from Dorset to Suffolk earlier this year and anyone interested in vintage vehicles, anyone charmed by cosy interiors and anyone with children will love it here.

And everyone else will too. u

THE AIRSTREAM

W

e are bowled over by the pure cuteness of Betsy, an original 1971 model, all polished chrome outside and clever formica compartments inside. A dining booth converts into a comfortable double bed and there are two further bunks and a kitchen area, plus a dinky bathroom. Small, yes, but with concealed cupboards and equipped with an oven, fridge and sink, it feels like living in a first class sleeper carriage. Bunting and floral curtains enhance the cheeriness.

HAPPY DAYS Suffolk

Happy Days Retro Vacations Wo r d s P e n d l e H a r t e

WHAT TO DO

J

oin the throng of people crabbing at Walberswick, where the ice cream van sells bait, buckets and lines alongside cones and flakes (this was home to the annual British Open Crabbing Championships until the event was cancelled in 2010 due to overattendance).

Tour the coastline and return for a barbecue on site, and spend the evening by the firepit. The cosy Airstreams are fully equipped with heating, blankets, board games and dvd players for chilly evenings.

There’s a playground with an enormous trampoline and you could happily spend your entire stay sitting under your awning, admiring the iconic trailers. u

THE AREA

S

uffolk is England’s driest county, and Happy Days is just five miles from the beach. The sandy stretch at Southwold is lovely with colourful beach huts and an unreconstructed pier, while the towns of Aldeburgh and Thorpeness offer pebbled beaches and English tearooms, vintage stores and nostalgic horse and cart rides. u

THE DAMAGE We e kend s star t at £ 2 5 0 for a two - night stay The Airstreams sleep four or five people. It’s possible to book the entire field for a party; the site is open May to November.

Wardspring Farm, Leiston Road, Saxmundham, Suffolk IP17 1TG; 01728 603424 happydaysrv.co.uk

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DINING

LIVING

London & Surrey 020 7253 3206 or 01372 379810

WHARFESIDE.indd 1 Absolutely Magazine August 2015 London version 2.indd 1

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www.wharfside.co.uk 02/07/2015 10:42 02/07/2015 10:23

> INTERIOR INSPIRATION: CONTEMPORARY CLASSICS

p. 56

PROFILE: THE MINT LIST

p. 60

DARK MATTER This month we’re choosing the dark side, courtesy of designer Abigail Ahern’s sumptuous capsule paint range. Inspired by a stint living in the US, the 13 hues will cocoon your room with sense of intrigue and tranquility.

Available from abigailahern.com and craigandrose.com

55 CHIS_AUG15_Interior_Opener.indd 55

AUGUST 2015

16/07/2015 15:12

10 of the best

contemporary classics

Rud Rasmussen pays tribute to Denmark’s first modern design classic Wo r d s J e s s i c a k l i n g e l f u s s

GRAHAM & GREEN

Clio Sofa Collection, From £2,450; grahamandgreen.co.uk

SARAH CAMPBELL

Mosaic Jewellery Box, £74; westelm.co.uk

must

HAVE

TIVOLI

Model Three Clock Radio in Cherry/Taupe, £199; goodhoodstore.com

LUNA & CURIOUS

Large Striped Throw, £85; lunaandcurious.com

JONATHAN ADLER Delphine Mirrored Bar, £2,995; jonathanadler.com

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

CHIS_AUG15_Interior_Insp.indd 56

Danish Modern Rud Rasmussen Kaare Klint’s iconic ‘Faaborg Chair’, the chair that helped to propel Denmark onto the global design map, is turning a grand 100 years old.

In celebration of this centennial, Rud Rasmussen is releasing a ten-piece special edition alongside a numbered anniversary edition in walnut and upholstered in a lush, black Niger leather. Snap up the latter now.

‘Faaborg Chair Anniversary Edition’, £3,160, available from 16A Bowling Green Lane, EC1R; rudrasmussen.com

56 16/07/2015 15:10

HOMES & INTERIORS / NOTES WEST ELM

Palmette Chenille Wool Kilim Rug, From £299; westelm.co.uk

BIRDS OF A FEATHER Oliver Bonas

Flock together, as the saying goes. We say, you can never have enough salad servers especially when this pair is concerned.

Featuring elegant gold tone feather handles even the plainest of salad bowls will look instantly sophisticated. £24; oliverbonas.com

TO THE MOON AND BACK Nelly Duff

Sabrina Kaici’s hand signed screenprint, ‘Full Moon Silver’ is one of the many cool, incredibly affordable works available at this Columbia Road gallery. But really, it’s yet another example of why we love this East London shop to the moon and back. £40; nellyduff.com

PAOLA PETROBELLI ‘Doppio’ Small Vase in Orange/Grey, £1,700; othercriteria.com

FRAMA

Copper Light Fitting with Black Cord, £35; goodhoodstore.com

WEAVE TEAM Donna Wilson x SCP

Quirky textile designer Donna Wilson has teamed up with modern furniture store SCP. Their recent collaboration sees whimsical products, such as the ‘Henry’ pouffe, make their mark in SCP’s Central London and Shoreditch showrooms. £208.25; scp.co.uk

OLIVER BONAS

Astrid Chevron Photo Frame, £16; oliverbonas.com

LIGHT MY FIRE P. F C a n d l e C o .

These hand-made soy candles are the hand poured result of Thomas Neuberger and Kristen Pumphrey’s efforts. The husband and wife team release small batches of their scents including Fig & Jasmine, Teakwood & Tobacco, and Sweet Grapefruit (left). Simply heavenly. £18; couvertureandthegarbstore.com

57 CHIS_AUG15_Interior_Insp.indd 57

MONOLOGUE

Hexagon Slit Table in Brass, £339; monologuelondon.com

AUGUST 2015

16/07/2015 15:11

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ALEXANDER ROSE

Strand+Hvass ‘Breeze’ Collection, from £164; cane-line.co.uk

San Marino Relax Hut, £2,495; outhereinteriors.com

must

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RO CO

Himmeli Kit Hanging Planter, from £35 trianglestore.co.uk

RICHARD SCHULTZ

‘Schultz 1966’ Contour Chaise, £1,347; aramstore.co.uk

OXYLEY’S

‘Rissington’ Table, made to order, from £2,795; chelseagardener.com

MOROSO

Tord Boontje ‘Shadowy Chaise Lounge’, £1,608; thelongeststay.com

FERM LIVING

Rose Circle Plant Wall, £35.50; hollys-house.com

PILAR WILEY

Large Meteor Planter in Black/Green, £190; thegardenedit.com

BODIE & FOU

Pure Nature Wooden Stool, £115; bodieandfou.com

NATIVE & CO.

FOSCARINI

Oiled Paper Umbrella, from £45; nativeandco.com

Ludovica & Roberto Palomba Outdoor Poly Gregg Floor Lamps, £335; ariashop.co.uk

GARDEN PARTY

CANE-LINE

Strand+Hvass ‘Breeze’ Highback Chair, £750; cane-line.co.uk

Enjoy outdoor living with these polished must-haves JONATHAN ADLER

Brass ‘Ulu’ Side Table, £1,200; jonathanadler.com

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BAXTER

‘Loren’ Side Tables: Square, £2,085; Round, £2,484; Oval, £3,024; baxterlondon.net

RICHARD SCHULTZ

‘Schultz 1966’ Adjustable Chaise, £1,836; aramstore.co.uk

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XXXXXX / XXXXXXX Q&A

ONE OF A KIND

Absolutely speaks with website owner and interior designer Camilla Kelly about antiques, The Mint List and beyond I n t e r v i e w c at h e r i n e h a l e s

CATHERINE HALES: How did the Mint List start? What was the inspiration?

CAMILLA KELLY: The Mint List started when I was working in advertising.

I’ve grown up in the antiques industry, and I just thought it was a shame that there wasn’t a one place to go where everything has been curated, an assemblage of pieces that have been gathered from interesting places by lots of interesting buyers. And when I went off to have my daughter it gave me, for the first time in my life, a few months time to think and I just couldn’t stop thinking about the idea of launching this business.

CH: Were you always interested in antiques and vintage furniture?

CK: Yes, from a very small age I was, because my parents had antique shops around London. They would buy in France or they’d buy in the markets, and they actually had a shop in Greenwich called Pennies Antiques, a kind of emporium, they had loads of storeholders in one big three floor building.

CH: That sounds amazing!

CK: It was really good fun as a kid - there were just so many different characters, lots of different storeholders, doing lots of different bits and bobs. And it was only recently that I realised “God, that’s what I’m

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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doing, but online!” I didn’t really make the connection. So, from when I was four and my sister was six we were constantly running around those sort of places, auction houses and antique markets – I grew up in that world.

CH: Do you think interior design was a logical next step?

CK: I suppose in advertising I honed my marketing, and because I worked at BSkyB for five or six years, I learned the various steps of working for a big corporation, and then I went to work for quite a small production company that was doing really well in Soho, but quite a small outfit so I learned how small businesses operate too. So, it felt like everything came together at the right time. I could use all of those skills and then apply it to my passions.

CH: So how did the Chick'n'Sours job come about? It’s in Dalston, isn’t it?

CK: Yes, it’s in Dalston. Carl [Clarke, the owner] is a friend of mine and at first I thought they would do their interiors themselves. It started off well, but there was just so much to do and he picked up the phone and asked will you step in? I really like working with him, he gives you a completely open reach.

He’s from Birmingham and he’s just like, “Make it look cool,” you know? And he’s really up for anything, he’s a star, a really open-minded, creative person.

60 16/07/2015 15:34

HOME & INTERIORS / INTERVIEW

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AUGUST 2015

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HOME & INTERIORS / INTERVIEW CH: How would you describe the overall look?

CK: It’s a combination of raw, organic surfaces with a 70s vibe. We left a lot of surfaces exposed. There were lots of different wall areas; when there was a wall of rough hewn concrete we just left it and put some light fittings over the top.

Rough and ready, I suppose, but we added finishing touches. We wanted it to look mismatched but all to sit together. And it does – it’s got a brilliant atmosphere as soon as you walk in.

CH: It fits in with the area, then?

CK: Yes, but it feels quite New York when you step inside, and they play good tunes, and funnily enough that’s the plan: roll it out in a few more London spots and then head up north and then in New York. It’s got that vibe, we’ve got some neon up there, and we’ve got some artwork by Charlie Ward on the walls.

CH: Is everything a one-off on the Mint List?

CK: Not everything, but there’s a good selection of unique pieces. There are some repeatables like lighting, storage stuff, and one of our best-selling products is a vintage dressing table, which we sell on repeat, so they’re made up. I’d say 80% of the Mint List is a one-off.

CH: What’s the most unusual item you’ve come across or sold on the website?

CK: I’m selling a lot of crocodile heads on the website at the moment. We have a crocodile head and a stuffed blowfish.

CH: I’m sensing an aquatic theme...

CK: There are definitely some bonkers things on there. We’ve got tables made out of old pinball machines. And one of our artists frames up curiosities, like retro collections of rubbers and keyrings from the

CH: Do you have a particular place that you source things from?

CK: All over the shop. When it comes to antiques and vintage, I’ve got suppliers in this country, regionally as well as London antique shops, salvage yards, private sellers, people with warehouses, prop sellers, and then we’ve got a whole list of contacts abroad as well. We buy a lot of furniture from Berlin and we've got suppliers in Norway, Denmark and France.

We’ve got a good address book.

of CROCODILE HEADS on the website AT THE MOMENT

80s, in huge old box frames. We’ve got quite a collection of oddities.

CH: Do you that the age of Ikea and very utilitarian-type furniture is over?

CK: I do think that people are definitely more aware of being unique. But I do also think, annoyingly, that companies like Ikea and even Tesco Home are savvy to that and they update their collections accordingly.

CH: What’s your most treasured item of furniture?

CK: I’ve got a rather eccentric bespoke light-up stoat holding a globe, that I’m very fond of. ◆ themintlist.com

QUICKFIRE QUESTIONS FAVOURITE INTERIOR DESIGNER? I’d have to say Tom Dixon. He’s more a designer than an interior designer but I love his work. ◆ FAVOURITE INTERIOR IN LONDON? I absolutely love Wilton’s Music Hall

CH: A good chain of supply CK: Exactly, but especially in a project like Chick‘n’Sours it’s all about being resourceful. And that for me is the most exciting part of the job: finding things other people can’t.

◆ FAVOURITE ERA IN TERMS OF DESIGN? I love every era, really. but probably the 60s and 70s are my favourites.

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I'm selling a lot

AUGUST 2015

17/07/2015 15:34

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

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PROPERTY LAW SERVICE

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DALEHAM GARDENS BELSIZE PARK, NW3

ÂŁ13,500,000

handsome and substantial detached Victorian family house approaching 10,000 sq ft. Its Victorian grandeur has been embellished with flair and imagination to create a stunning 21st century home of exceptional quality. Designed for entertaining comfort, its light and spacious rooms are sensibly laid out with a great deal of thought given to the practicalities of modern family life. u A

BELSIZE PARK

67 NXNW_August_Prop_FC.indd 67

020 3815 3350

knightfrank.co.uk

AUGUST 2015

17/07/2015 12:04

50 years of fulfilling dreams

...for all generations

BRAMPTON COURT, BRAMPTON GROVE, NW4

£530,000 LEASEHOLD

A spacious two double bedroom flat, refurbished to the highest standard with dual aspect windows.

THE OWNERS LOVE…

WE’VE NOTICED…

Beautifully bright and airy rooms with high ceilings.”

The flat is located within easy reach of Hendon Central Underground station, West Hendon City Thameslink and Brent Street’s shops and restaurants.

“Lovely communal gardens tended to by excellent and very helpful Millie - the day porter.”

“Very well connected for underground, over ground and bus travel.”

• 2 Bedrooms • 1 Reception room • Separate kitchen • First floor • 1 Bathroom • 2 WCs • Chain free • EPC Rating: D

Hendon Office • T: 020 8203 2012 • E: nw4@martyngerrard.co.uk • 59 Brent Street, Hendon, London, NW4 2EA MG_NXNW.indd 1

www.martyngerrard.co.uk 15/07/2015 17:18

50 years of fulfilling dreams

...for all generations

WINDERMERE ROAD, MUSWELL HILL, N10

£1,250,000 FREEHOLD

A four bedroom Edwardian family home which requires updating, located in on one of Muswell Hill’s popular Lake Roads.

THE OWNERS LOVE…

WE’VE NOTICED…

“It is a wonderful area to bring up children with many green open spaces nearby and great schools.”

Rhodes Avenue primary and Alexandra Park secondary schools, as well as Muswell Hill Broadway, are located nearby.

“The beautiful south facing garden which is not overlooked from the rear.”

• 4 Bedrooms

“This sturdy Edwardian home has been a happy home for us over the last 48 years.”

• 2 Reception rooms • Kitchen dining room • South facing garden • Loft space with potential to extend STPP • Bathroom & Separate WC • Cellar • EPC Rating: E

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

www.martyngerrard.co.uk 15/07/2015 17:18

50 years of fulfilling dreams

...for all generations

RIDGE ROAD, CROUCH END, N8

£1,799,950 FREEHOLD

A substantial late Victorian house with grand proportions and flexible accommodation over four levels.

THE OWNERS LOVE…

WE’VE NOTICED…

“The house is in an elevated position with amazing views extending from Queens Wood to Epping Forest”

Harringay Station and the W3 bus route to Finsbury Park station are close-by.

“Every part of the property is tranquil and serene with many original features, each room has it’s own unique character and feel to it” “With high ceilings and the rear garden backing onto other gardens, there is a feeling of spaciousness throughout, yet with easy access to transport and amenities”

The property is being sold with no onward chain.

• 6/7 Bedrooms • 2 Large reception rooms • Spacious kitchen/dining/family room at garden level • 3 Bath/shower rooms • 2 Further WCs • Study • Period features inc. fireplaces & cornicing • EPC Rating: E

Crouch End Office • T: 020 8348 5135 • E: N8@martyngerrard.co.uk • 45 The Broadway, Crouch End, N8 8DT MG_NXNW.indd 3

www.martyngerrard.co.uk 15/07/2015 17:19

HURRY - SELLING FAST

Pinnacle is a unique new-build development of exclusive one, two and three bedroom apartments and four bedroom luxury townhouses in the heart of Muswell Hill.

For further information:

Prices from £499,950 to £1,995,000

Register your details now at:

WWW.PINNACLE-N10.COM

Martyn Gerrard (Sole Selling Agent) Muswell Hill Office T: 020 8444 3388

A JAMM LIVING DEVELOPMENT

MG CORP.indd 1 NbN Adv A4 01.indd 1 13692.001 Pinnacle

15/07/2015 14/07/2015 09:55 17:29

PROPERTY ROUND UP The inside scoop in your area

HOUSE HUNTING

THE ATRIUM  NW8

£2,750

Per Week

his beautiful three bedroom lateral apartment, offering views of the Regent’s Park and canal, provides 2,028 sq ft of luxury accommodation and benefits from an excellent balance of living and entertaining space.

T

VIEWS OF REGENT’S PARK AND CANAL, PROVIDING 2,028 SQ FT OF LUXURY ACCOMMODATION

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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The elegant apartment has two clearly delimited areas for living and sleeping.

The spacious entrance hall leads into an elegant, bright reception room looking out over Regent’s Canal. The reception room opens onto a stylish dining area, which sits up to ten people and is conveniently screened from the generous U-shaped kitchen. The bedroom area is accessed from the hall via a corridor which opens onto three luxurious bedrooms, each featuring lavish ensuite facilities. The master bedroom features an elegant walk-in wardrobe, which provides the perfect private dressing space, whist the other two bedrooms enjoy ample clothes storage. The beautiful home also benefits from a guest cloakroom and utility room. u

CHARITY RUN

KFH RAISES £25,000 FOR HOUSING FOR WOMEN CHARITY  A team of more than 70 KFH runners took part in the London Estate Agents 10k run organised by the charity on Sunday 7 June, running a route of ten kilometres around Regent’s Park.

Housing for Women is a charity and housing association that has been providing homes for London’s most vulnerable women for over 80 years. They offer support by providing secure, affordable housing and related services to a wide range of women and children across the capital.

Many of our staff members got behind the cause, with

Rescorp Residential 020 3348 8000; rescorp.co.uk

more than 70 opting to run, and the rest raising funds for their colleagues, as well as through a number of other initiatives, including a cake sale and dress-down Friday at head office. The outcome has been phenomenal, with our staff helping to raise over £12,000, which the company then matched, helping to raise a total of £25,000 for Housing for Women.

Since KFH started fundraising for Housing for Women, it has raised nearly £40,000. u

kfh.co.uk

72 17/07/2015 14:16

PROPERTY / NEWS AG E N T O N D E S I G N A DV I C E

DOLLIS PARK

ANDREW FLINT

 Finchley Central, N3

eticulously designed and extended by the current owners – who are architects – this family home is situated on a premier Road in Finchley Central. While they have cleverly created a further two bedrooms and a bathroom in the loft space, the real star of the show is the ground floor extension.

By using the property’s side return, a spacious kitchen/breakfast room has been created. It includes ample workspace,

From Colman Coyle gives his expert advice on all your legal property questions

M

USING THE PROPERTY’S SIDE RETURN, A SPACIOUS KITCHEN / BREAKFAST ROOM HAS BEEN CREATED

Q&A a large breakfast bar with integrated appliances and a seating area for four.

The extension leads to a mature rear garden and incorporates a large sky light that fills the space with natural light. Full width sliding doors allow the garden to become part of the actual room and is particularly important to our clients with children.

Side returns in properties are often

overlooked and unused.

By capitalising on this wasted space, owners can create an impressive room that feels much bigger in size due to its unobstructed views through to the garden, and the presence of light from above. 

NATALIE THOMPSON

Sales Manager KFH, Finchley 020 8970 7856; kfh.co.uk

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

CAMDEN SQUARE  NW1

£3,999,950 truly stunning double-fronted, detached house overlooking Camden Square Gardens requiring a degree of modernisation and comprising over 4,300 sq ft of accommodation set over four floors. With 60’ x 40’ rear garden, off-street parking, a front garden and off street parking. Offered with no onward chain.

Camden is a dynamic area of North London, famous for its alternative fashion

A

scene and busy market. Its proximity to Primrose Hill and Regent’s Park makes the area attractive to those seeking green space.

Camden also has a wide range of pubs and restaurants. ◆

Chestertons Camden, 020 7267 2053; chestertons.com

SPOTLIGHT ON [ AVERAGE ASKING PRICE ]

[ AVERAGE PROPERTY VALUE ]

£680,043 N8 £632,191

I LIVE IN A HOUSE CONVERTED INTO THREE FLATS. WE ARE THINKING OF BUYING THE FREEHOLD BUT WE ARE NOT SURE HOW THE FREEHOLD INTEREST SHOULD BE OWNED. COULD YOU PLEASE ADVISE US.

Y

ou can own the freehold interest in one or two ways: firstly, you and the other two leaseholders could own the freehold as individuals; secondly, you could buy an off-the-shelf company to acquire the freehold interest. If you go down the latter route, then you will need to decide whether the company should be limited by shares or guarantees.

The disadvantage of owning the freehold on an individual basis is that each time a flat changes hands all the freeholders will have to sign a document called a Transfer. This may be easy to arrange if all three freeholders live in the property, but there can be logistical difficulties if a freeholder lives abroad, for example.

The advantage of a company owning the freehold is that each time a flat changes hands all the seller needs to do is sign a Stock Transfer Form transferring the share in the company to the buyer on completion. If the company is limited by guarantee, then the seller doesn’t need to sign anything.

There can only ever be a maximum of four individuals registered as freeholders so the default position for large blocks is always going to be a company. For a block such as yours, you will need to decide what suits you best. ◆

ANDREW FLINT

Property Partner Colman Co yle

80 Upper Street, Islington, N1 0NU colmancoyle.com Contact property partner Andrew Flint with no obligation on 020 7354 3000 or email andrew.flint@colmancoyle.com.

Data provided by zoopla.co.uk

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AUGUST 2015

17/07/2015 14:17

Completely at home in North London.

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

With over 35 years’ experience and more than 50 branches across the Capital, our local knowledge and London network will ensure we achieve the right result for you.

Our dedicated North London branches include • Belsize Park • Muswell Hill • Crouch End • St John’s Wood • Highgate • West Hampstead

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Dresden Road, Whitehall Park, N19 £1,500,000 Highgate 020 8341 6666 highgate.sales@kfh.co.uk

KFH.indd 08.15 KFH 2Absolutely NXNW.indd 2

Spacious seven bedroom Victorian house situated in the popular Whitehall Park area boasting an attractive blend of period character and contemporary style. Ideally situated for transport links.

• • • • • • • •

Seven bedrooms Three bathrooms Two connected reception rooms Period character Private garden Excellent transport links Freehold EPC rating D

14/07/2015 09/07/2015 09:47 10:46

Goodwyns Vale, Muswell Hill, N10 £1,695,000 Muswell Hill 020 8883 0123 muswellhill.sales@kfh.co.uk

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Stunning five double bedroom, double fronted Edwardian family home offering 2,648 sq ft of accommodation arranged over three floors and a 75 ft garden.

• • • • • • • •

Five double bedrooms Three bathrooms Two reception rooms Bespoke Smallbone kitchen WC and utility room 75 ft garden Freehold EPC rating E

14/07/2015 09/07/2015 09:47 12:32

Park Road, St John’s Wood, NW8 Price on application St John’s Wood 020 7586 8001 stjohnswood.sales@kfh.co.uk

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Charming four bedroom, fourth floor apartment offering a wealth of character, grand reception room, 24 hour porter, excellent views over Regent’s Park and parking.

• • • • • • • •

Four bedrooms Three bathrooms Grand reception room 24 hour porter Parking Excellent transport links Leasehold EPC rating E

14/07/2015 09/07/2015 09:47 15:11

Frognal, Belsize Park, NW3 £4,225pcm Belsize Park 020 7586 9006 belsizepark.lettings@kfh.co.uk

Raised ground floor, two bedroom flat set within a charming period property with two bathrooms plus addition guest WC, modern eat in kitchen, study and spacious reception room.

• • • • • • • •

Two double bedrooms Two bathrooms plus guest WC Modern eat in kitchen Spacious reception room Study room High ceilings Unfurnished EPC rating D

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

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St. John’s Wood Road, St John’s Wood, NW8 £2,817pcm St John’s Wood 020 7586 8001 stjohnswood.lettings@kfh.co.uk

Two double bedroom, two bathroom flat with a large reception room, wood flooring, balcony and porter.

Situated in the heart of St John’s Wood close to transport links.

• • • • • • • •

Two double bedrooms Two bathrooms Large reception room Balcony Porter Excellent transport links Furnished EPC rating C

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

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14/07/2015 09/07/2015 09:47 10:48

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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PROPERTY / PROFILE

IN THEIR OWN

WORDS

LADIES OF THE VILLAGE Benham & Reeves Residential Lettings, Hampstead Photography

R E B ECCA N O O N A N

DEBBIE REITER

roperty and travel are my P two passions in life, and I’ve been lucky to work in both. I was bitten by the property bug first. At the age of 20 I began working in property sales and loved it. Demand for rental properties was really picking up at the time too so my boss asked me to set up a lettings department within the firm. It was very successful and I’ve remained in lettings ever since. I love the fast pace, and you also meet many interesting people and develop real friendships.

For several years I combined my love of property and travel, working for a travel firm, then in property sales in the Canary Islands for three years and in Marbella for five, until the property crash in 2004. And then Hampstead drew me back!

I just love the architecture here, particularly Georgian and Victorian properties, the village atmosphere, and our cocker spaniel adores a good walk across the Heath.

During my career, I’ve seen rental demand in Hampstead soar, with corporate clients pushing up prices considerably.

I’ve also experienced two property slumps, but demand

THE ECONOMY WILL ALWAYS FLUCTUATE BUT HAMPSTEAD NEVER LOSES ITS APPEAL JENNI TOWLER

always bounces back. We often find corporate tenants moving from overseas specifically ask to move to Hampstead - other areas just won’t do! Currently, rental demand is strong, both from young professionals looking for one or two bedroom apartments and from families looking for larger homes. The Heath, the quaint village atmosphere, the bars and restaurants, the great schools – who wouldn’t fall in love with Hampstead? u

JENNI TOWLER

came into lettings by accident! I was teaching part-time after completing a Montessori training course but needed to top up my income. For several years, I’d been property finding for friends, and I had also worked in interior design, so when Benham and Reeves Lettings had a vacancy in Hampstead, it seemed a natural progression.

I

I love property and I love meeting people, so working in lettings is perfect for me. It suits my nosey streak too! There’s nothing I enjoy more than visiting beautiful homes. On a serious note, it’s really satisfying to be able to use my knowledge of the local market to advise landlords on how to successfully rent their property.

Living in Hampstead for 22 years, I’ve forged friendships with many clients – some friends have moved here from all over the world and it’s unusual to have such a strong sense of community combined with a cosmopolitan feel. I also love the fact that Hampstead has so many tucked away streets and alleys where you can stumble across hidden architectural gems.

The election has dominated our lives recently, the uncertainty causing many people to delay buying or selling their property to rent instead. Property prices seem to have topped out, also prompting people to rent but we’re used to seeing peaks and troughs in the market. The banking crisis saw a dip in applicants’ budgets but we’re now seeing increasing numbers of enquiries for high end properties. The economy will always fluctuate but Hampstead never loses its appeal. u

F I TH N

BR L E T S / 020 7435 9681 / brlets.co.uk

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Belsize Park, London NW3 Stunning three bedroom garden apartment A beautiful three bedroom garden apartment for sale that forms part of a well maintained white stucco fronted period residence and is located close to Belsize village and Swiss Cottage (Jubilee line). Master bedroom with en suite bathroom, 2 further bedrooms, family bathroom, kitchen, reception room, garden. Approximately 116.87sq m (1,258 sq ft).

Leasehold

Guide price: £1,570,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/belsizepark belsizepark@knightfrank.com 020 8022 5463

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

KnightFrank.co.uk/HAM140182

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Absolutely August 2015

15/07/2015 11:37

15/07/2015 11:25:49

Regents Park Road, Primrose Hill NW1 Four bedroom maisonette A fantastic opportunity to acquire a rare maisonette in the heart of Primrose Village. The property boasts a wealth of light throughout, an integrated studio apartment on the lower ground floor and an impressive roof terrace with 360 degree views across the London skyline. 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, kitchen, reception room, dining room, roof terrace, self-contained studio flat. EPC: E. Approximately 232 sq m (2,498 sq ft).

Share of freehold

Guide price: £2,650,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/belsizepark belsizepark@knightfrank.com 020 8022 5463

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

KnightFrank.co.uk/BSZ150008

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Creighton Avenue, Muswell Hill, N10

£1,695,000 Freehold. Joint Sole Agents

Leaside Mansions, Fortis Green, N10

£669,950 Share of Freehold. Sole Agents

We are delighted to be able to offer this spacious semi-detached 30’s built house occupying a bold corner position offering spacious accommodation over two floors. The property has the added benefit of a self-contained two bedroom flat providing an ideal granny flat or home and income situation also affords carriage drive with ample parking. Located at the Muswell Hill end of this sought after avenue close to the shops and restaurants of the Broadway and within favourable catchment of Fortismere, Eden, Coldfall and Our Lady of Muswell schools. Early viewing is highly recommended.

Contact our Muswell Hill Office on 020 8444 1771

Set on the second floor of this attractive Edwardian mansion block is a well-proportioned three bedroom flat which retains a wealth of original period features. This fine property is being offered in very good condition throughout and benefits include a fitted kitchen/dining area with access to small balcony and at the rear are beautifully maintained southerly facing communal gardens.

Conveniently located within a short walk of Muswell Hill Broadway and its large selection of shops and restaurants; also close at hand is East Finchley tube station (Northern Line). Within close proximity of Tetherdown primary and Fortismere secondary schools.

Contact our Muswell Hill Office on 020 8444 1771

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www.tatlers.co.uk

Carysfort Road, Crouch End, N8

£1,275,000 Freehold. Sole Agents

A beautifully presented mid terraced Edwardian family home located on this quiet turning in central Crouch End. This charming property offers excellent living space and has been well maintained throughout. Arranged over three floors there are four double bedrooms, spacious family bathroom and also the added benefit of a downstairs WC and additional shower. The kitchen diner is fantastic for entertaining and opens on to a 48’ garden whilst the loft conversion is currently being used as a second reception, although could easily be arranged as a master bedroom. Located within walking distance to Crouch End’s Broadway’s excellent range of shops and restaurants and transport links, also close by to Priory Park.

Contact our Crouch End Office on 020 8341 4050

Springcroft Avenue, East Finchley, N2

£1,300,000 Freehold. Sole Agents

Offering for sale this deceptively spacious four bedroom Edwardian house located off of Fortis Green and being within a 10 minute stroll to East Finchley Station (Northern Line). The property is arranged over three floors and benefits from a large open plan lounge which takes you directly into the kitchen and conservatory. There are four double bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. The property is in favourable distance to Fortismere secondary and Tetherdown primary Schools.

Contact our East Finchley office on 020 8883 1001

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020 8348 5515 crouchend@castles.london

www.castles.london

Weston Park, N8

ÂŁ1,499,999 Freehold

A fabulous opportunity to purchase a five-bedroom, double-fronted, period family home positioned on a much-favoured turning within a moment"s walk of the enviable "Broadway". Further comprising two receptions, kitchen/diner, ground floor guest cloakroom, two bathrooms, en-suite, and a south-facing rear garden. We highly recommend an early viewing.

Clifton Road, N8

ÂŁ2,300,000 Freehold

Exceptionally spacious, 6-bedroom, period family home benefiting from a 50 ft private rear garden. Positioned on the Highgate side of Crouch End offering an abundance of character features throughout in addition to the original main layout which has been greatly expanded to include a loft & basement conversion measuring in excess of 3,500 sq ft.

Comprising 3 receptions & 4 bathrooms. Equidistantly positioned to Highgate underground station and Crouch End Broadway. Chain Free.

12 Topsfield Parade, London N8 8PR CASTLES_NXNW.indd 1

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PROPERTY / PROMOTION

SHURGARD S E L F - S T O R AG E

DE-CLUTTER YOUR HOME THIS SUMMER FOR A CALMER, CLEARER MIND

ANY SIZE

STORAGE UNITS FROM 10-240 SQ FT ◆

SECURE

24 HOUR CCTV & PIN CODE ENTRY ◆

I

t can be hard to feel completely at ease in your home when you’re surrounded by too much stuff. Whether you just need a good clear out or whether you’re at an important stage of your life like moving house or downsizing, Shurgard Self-Storage can help you out.  Here are Shurgard’s top tips on helping de-clutter your house and your mind:

One step at a time e-cluttering can seem like an overwhelming task.

D Take it one step at a time.

Make a list of all the areas you want to de-clutter and do them step by step; don’t put pressure on yourself to get them all done in one fell go.

VA L U E

Ditch the store-drobe hances are those legwarmers won’t be C coming back into fashion, so why are they still lingering around your wardrobe? To identify the pieces of clothing you can really live without, hang all your clothes with the hangers in the reverse direction. After you wear an item, return it to the wardrobe with the hanger facing the correct direction. After a while you’ll have a clear picture of which clothes you can afford to discard.

Winter clothes take up a lot of room in the wardrobe – change your wardrobe with the seasons

Feel at ease as soon as you walk through the door our hallway is a prime clutter zone. Shoes, coats, Y letters, and umbrellas can instantly make you feel stressed before you’ve even had a chance to put your bag down. An entrance hall should feel big, open and clutter-free so you feel an instant sense of calm when you walk through your front door.

£1 STORAGE FOR THE FIRST MONTH ◆

FLEXIBLE

SHORT OR LONG TERM STAY

and put your winter woollies away for a rainy day. Store them away in well-labelled boxes under the bed, put them in a Shurgard storage unit or use vacuum bags to store them away until spring time.

And if you’re moving house... e-cluttering before putting your house on the D market could mean the difference between a quick sale and months of uncertainty.

A clutter-free home can make it more appealing to prospective buyers, which could ultimately result in a higher sale price.

Consider moving some of your personal items and leaving just the bare essentials. Although certain ornaments and trinkets may be to your taste, they might not be to potential buyers! ◆

With 20 years of expertise and 23 locations around London, Shurgard offers convenient, safe and flexible self-storage solutions to keep your treasured possessions, seasonal items and household goods safe and secure.

 shurgard 0800 368 2202; shurgard.co.uk

87 B&C_AUG15_Prop_ADV.indd 87

AN ENTRANCE HALL SHOULD FEEL CLUTTERFREE SO YOU FEEL A SENSE OF CALM WHEN YOU WALK THROUGH YOUR FRONT DOOR

AUGUST 2014

17/07/2015 14:54

Smart pinpoints exactly where they want to live.

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

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12:02 15/06/2015 11:46

THE GL ASS BUILDING, ARLINGTON ROAD, NW1 ÂŁ1,700,000

KE Y FE AT URES Two Bedroom Apartment Modern Decor Throughout Outside Space On Site Concierge Open Plan Kitchen Reception Room Underground Parking

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DUBAI | HONG KONG | INDIA | LONDON | MALAYSIA | SINGAPORE

Our doors are always open, in branch or online‌ With 13 well placed lettings branches, we are able to give tenants a wide choice of properties across London For landlords we offer a full lettings and property management service, furnishing packages plus refurbishment and a home staging service

Expert local knowledge in just one call

Freephone 020 7319 9783 or email info@brlets.co.uk or visit www.brlets.co.uk

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