NORTH BY NORTHWEST MARCH 2016

NORTH BY NORTHWEST

MARCH 2016 / £3.95

FASHION CYCLE

STAY STYLISH IN THE SADDLE

YOUNG AT HEART

MICHAEL CAINE ON YOUTH AND LONDON LIVING

FLOWER POWER CREATE YOUR OWN URBAN GARDEN

FLOAT ON CHIFFON AND LACE FOR SPRING 2016 STYLISH / INTELLIGENT / ELEGANT COVER_MARCH16.indd 2

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contents March 2016

46 c u lt u r e

08 WHAT’S ON

Diary dates for March

10 MICHAEL CAINE

The quintessential Londoner on Youth and his estimable acting career

fa s h i o n

16 18

16

24 SHE’S A RAINBOW

How to work the new season’s multicolour trend like a pro

27 STREET STYLE

We discover the brands you need to know in order to hit London’s cycle paths in style

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

FASHION CONFIDENTIAL

30 BEAUTY CONFIDENTIAL

SHEER ROMANCE

33 EYE KNOW

This month’s hottest trends and products

Get hearts pumping with pretty peek-a-boo lace

Best beauty buys of the month

This month it’s all about the strong eye with enhanced lashes and brows

Food & Drink

36 KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL Tasty happenings from the local area

39 RESTAURANT REVIEWS Covers MISS SIXTY SS 2016 COLLECTION M o d e l : N ATA L I A VO D I A N OVA P h o t o g r a p h e r s : M E R T A L A S & M A R C U S P I G G OT T The new collection is available at: Miss Sixty at Westfield Stratford, Olympic Park, Montfichet Rd, London E20 1EJ

m i s s s i x ty.c o m

We review Fenchurch at Sky Garden and Jones Family Project

t r av e l

interiors

56 INTERIOR INSPIRATIONS

Bring concrete into your home and get busy with some modern DIY

58 BRIGHT IDEAS

Light up your life with our favourite lamps

61

BOX FRESH

Gardening for the body and the soul

PROPERTY

46 OUT OF AFRICA Marveling at Marrakech

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36 70 PROPERTY NEWS News and views on the area

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

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

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EDITOR CATHERINE HALES SENIOR EDITORIAL ASSISTANT ELIZABETH HUTTON CONTRIBUTING FASHION EDITOR CHARLOTTE ADSETT CONTRIBUTING INTERIORS EDITOR JESSICA KLINGELFUSS WINE COLUMNIST JANE PARKINSON KIDS EDITOR HELEN BARON EDITORIAL INTERNS HELEN BROWN, SALLY HUMBERSTONE GROUP COMMERCIAL MANAGER JAMES FUSCHILLO MAJOR ACCOUNTS DIRECTOR TAMSIN LUCK PROPERTY DIRECTOR ANDY ELMER PROPERTY EDITOR ELYSIA AGNEW ART DIRECTOR RAY SEARLE SENIOR DESIGNER PHIL COUZENS SENIOR DESIGNER PAWEL KUBA MID-WEIGHT DESIGNERS GEMMA ISTEED, EKREM YILMAZ JUNIOR DESIGNER REBECCA NOONAN PRODUCTION MANAGER STEWART HYDE FINANCIAL CONTROLLER AYSHA HABIBI CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER ALEXANDRA HVID PA TO THE DIRECTORS MARIANNE MCFADDEN DIRECTOR 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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Fo l l ow Us O n T wi t t e r @ABSOLUTELY_MAGS Fa c e b o o k ‘ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES’

EDITOR’S letter

A

lthough spring may not quite have sprung, we here at Absolutely have decided to fake it until the unreliable English weather makes it. Our March fashion inspiration on page 24 showcases the rainbow stripes that are proving a big theme in current resort collections, while our exclusive fashion shoot puts sheer fabrics at the forefront of spring style on page 18.

Outdoor pursuits are also on our minds as we discover the brands that are making cycling stylish on page 27: think less lycra and neon, more sophisticated tweed and Chelsea boots. If you prefer something less strenuous than jumping into the saddle you may be interested in joining the BloomBox Club, a delivery service that combines concepts of

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mindfulness and gardening to help you create your own urban oasis.

See page 61 for how to get started.

Turn to page 10 to meet quintessential Londoner Michael Caine discuss Youth (the film and the feeling) and how he almost lost out on his breakout role in Alfie to Terence Stamp.

Morocco and Dorset make up our travel section starting on page 45 and all this is in addition to our monthly food reviews, kids content and round up of what’s on in London this month. I hope you enjoy the issue. Ciao! ◆

Catherine Hales Editor

MARCH 2016

16/02/2016 15:13

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KENDER, János (1937–1983) and SHUNK, Harry (1942–2006) Yves Klein's 'Saut dans le Vide', Fontenay-aux-Roses, France, 1960 Photograph: Shunk-Kender © J. Paul Getty Trust TATE MODERN PERFORMING FOR THE CAMERA

> TALKING TOPICS

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MEETING MICHAEL CAINE

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p. 10

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COURTESY SMALLFILMS & FOUR CORNERS BOOKS

XXXXXXXX / XXXXXXXXX

THE CLANGERS, BAGPUSS & CO

© MASAHISA FUKASE ARCHIVES

© ERWIN WURM

Fro m 1 9 Ma rc h V& A M u s e u m o f C hil dho o d his major new retrospective for T Smallfilms’ cult creations will show how Britain’s most-loved retro TV characters were brought to life prior to CGI technology. Showcasing the original puppets and sets of both The Clangers and Bagpuss this is a must-see for any nostalgic adult. u Cambridge Heath Road, E2; vam.ac.uk/moc

PERFORMING FOR THE CAMERA

STRANGE and FAMILIAR

T h ro u gh o u t Ma rc h Ta te Mo de r n hen people know they are being W captured on film they change.

This exhibition seeks to explore the relationship between photography and performance and shows everything from Victorian stills to the modern day selfie. u Bankside, SE1; tate.org.uk

From 16 March B a rbica n Centre

Ever wondered what the rest of the world really thinks of the British? This exhibition showcases the good, the bad and the ugly sides of the UK from an international perspective. Photographs from the 1930s onwards capture the social, cultural, and political identity of modern Britain. This intriguing exhibition will playfully contrast how Brits see themselves and how the international community receives them.

Silk Street, EC2; barbican.org.uk

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PLAY HOLI IN THE CITY

4 - 1 2 Ma rc h C i nna m o n Ki tc he n ring some colour to the City and B celebrate the Indian Holi Festival in spectacular paint-throwing fashion with the House of Holi. Celebrating the coming of spring, you’ll feast on traditional dishes such as king prawns in coconut and cardamon curry. u 9 Devonshire Square, EC2; cinnamon-kitchen.com

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ARTS & CULTURE / TALKING TOPICS

CUT IT OUT: JOE WEBB

4 -2 8 Fe b r u a r y Je a l o u s E a s t intage magazine cut-outs are juxtaposed with prints to create V Joe Webb’s surreal, dream-like pieces. Avoiding the digital editing process entirely, Webb’s work flirts with the themes of nostalgia and loss so cleverly that they convey deeper socially and politically loaded messages in a lighthearted manner. Interesting, enlightening and truly witty, Webb has a unique talent and this is a rare chance to see his work up close and personal. u 53 Curtain Road, EC2; jealousgallery.com

X by ALISTAIR McDOWALL F ro m 30 Marc h R oyal C ou r t T he a t re

must see

In a universe where Mars is full of blonde Americans creating their own master race and other planets are full of the British saving taxpayers’ money, a crew on Pluto lose contact with Earth.

Unearthing our dark humanity, this hilarious play watches on as the characters fend for themselves, suspect the worse, and turn on one another in order to survive.

BARTABAS & ANDRÉS

14- 21 March S adle r’s Well s nspired by the sacred rituals and ceremonies of Sevillian I Holy Week, this performance combines equestrian theatre with art, music and dance to create a jaw dropping spectacular. French artist Bartabas and contemporary dancer Andrés Marín confidently demonstrate the boundless creativity of flamenco as they dance while also disciplining four horses live on stage with Grecian chants and physical poetry.

This show is one-of-a-kind. u Roseberry Avenue, EC1; sadlerswells.com

Sloane Square, SW1; royalcourttheatre.com

SHOW OF THE MONTH

ILGTRITTICO iacomo Puccini T h ro u gh o u t Ma rch R o yal O pe ra Ho u s e n this acclaimed production, Nicola Luisotti conducts Puccini’s vibrant trio of operas with three world class casts.

These single-act operas immerse the viewer in the different stages of life; the heartbreak and tragedy of Suor Angelica and the terror

©BILL COOPER

I

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and jealousy of Tabarro’s murder seem at odds with the comedy of Gianni Schicchi, but the final part of this trio expresses the darker side of humanity. Expect grand set designs and sumptious duets that will blow your mind. u  Bow Street, WC2E; roh.org.uk

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Caine and very able London boy Sir Michael Caine reveals why his performance in Italian film Youth may be his best yet Wo r d s K a r e n A n n e O v e r t o n

I

t takes an awfully long time to achieve legendary status and while audiences have been admiring the magnificent Sir Michael Caine for some time, the 82-year-old admits that his role as ageing composer Fred Ballinger in Paolo Sorrentino’s comedy-drama Youth may be his best performance yet.

“It’s very different from when I was a big movie star and I got the girl and everyone knew it was me in the movie,” Caine says. “In this movie you don’t see me, you don’t see the acting, you only see the person I’m playing. It’s probably the best thing I've ever done.”

And as he admitted to the Express recently, he even surprised himself a little: “This film stretched me. I have not lost the thrill of finding myself in these situations when I still think of myself as a working class kid from London.”

Youth is director Sorrentino’s first film

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since the dazzling La Grande Bellezza (The Great Beauty) which won the Oscar for best foreign language film at the 86th Academy Awards. Set in a luxury Swiss spa it is a tender, immersive and sometimes heart-breaking reflection of life and finding joy in the twilight years.

Alongside double Oscar-winner Caine is an impressive cast including Harvey Keitel as Fred’s best friend and Jane Fonda as an ageing diva, combining the might of several cinema titans. Clearly unfazed by his exceptional cast, Sorrentino used unusual methods to get the very best from his actors.

“Paolo [Sorrentino] likes to keep surprising his actors,” Caine explains.

“He didn’t tell us anything about what was going to happen in a scene except that a pretty girl is going to get into the pool. Then he told us to ‘just get in the pool, there’s no dialogue. So Harvey and I get into the pool and we’re waiting

I STILL think of myself AS THIS WORKING CLASS kid from LONDON

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ARTS & CULTURE / INTERVIEW

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ARTS & CULTURE / INTERVIEW and suddenly Paolo yells ‘action!’ and Madalina [Ghenea] gets in the pool and she’s completely naked! Harvey and I both expected her to be wearing a bathing suit and that stunned look on our faces is really great acting because we didn’t have to do any acting at all. You can’t get any better than that! It was absolute reality.”

A true national treasure who has worked consistently since his breakout role in epic war film Zulu in 1964, Caine has already reached the status that most actors will only ever dream of. But his path to superstardom was far from

Youth (2016)

with Harvey Keitel in Youth (2016)

straightforward and the actor had already been grafting for an entire decade before landing the role of Lieutenant Gonville Bromhead. In fact, even after the success of Zulu few imagined he would become the icon he is today. Ultimately it was his working class charm that set him apart.

“I was very fortunate to have a distinctive voice and look that was very different from the great actors of the 40s and 50s where everyone in Hollywood was so handsome,” admits Caine. “I never thought I was going to be a star because I was this Cockney guy from Elephant and Castle. I was very far from the typical image of a movie star. But my generation changed the way actors look and spoke and behaved.”

His role in Alfie made Caine a household name, and set him on a path of playing cheeky but loveable cads. Caine admits that when it came to playing the serial womaniser, he “couldn’t have found an easier role to do” but admits he almost didn’t get the part. “I was sharing a flat with Terence Stamp at the time and he

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was offered the part ahead of me and I actually tried to convince him to do the role but he wasn't interested,” he recalls. “But that was the role that made me a movie star and it changed everything.”

Unlike his most famous alter ego, Caine has been happily married to his wife Shakira Baksh for 43 years.

He recently said that before he met her he was drinking too much and smoking several packs of cigarettes a day and that she “calmed him down”. “She’s not the little wife,” he told Radio Times. “She runs the whole business side of my life. She’s my right-hand man, my confidante. I was famous when I met her but I could not have got this far without her.”

HARVEY and I both EXPECTED HER to be WEARING A BATHING SUIT There is a great gulf, therefore, between the real Michael Caine and his character Fred in Youth, who despite great success is prone to brooding, an aspect Caine found challenging. “The hardest thing was playing a man who has a deeply troubled soul and that’s never been part of who I am,” he smiles. “I’m very happy. I’ve had a happy marriage, I have wonderful children and grandchildren, and I don’t brood about anything. Embracing that sadness and regret was the biggest test for me.”

It’s not surprising Caine found his role in Youth as a curmudgeonly old man so trying when his outlook remains so utterly joyous. In fact, apart from his somewhat healthier lifestyle, Caine isn’t a million miles away from the Cockney charmer the world fell in love with all those years ago.

He still resides for the most part in the UK and, having hinted at retirement several times in the past, he chooses his film roles wisely, saying he will only film on location if his wife can accompany him.

“I’m still enjoying my life as much as ever,” he grins. “I’ve said this before, but it’s true: growing old may not be that pleasant, but given the alternative it’s fabulous.” ◆ l Youth is on general release

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> FASHION CONFIDENTIAL

p. 16

SHEER ROMANCE

p. 18

STREET STYLE

p. 27

PIECES OF EIGHT Dior's Spring Summer ’16 campaign showcases Raf Simons’ final ready-to-wear collection for the fashion house. Shot by Patrick Demarchelier, the models wear metal ‘8’ pendants which pay homage to the first Dior catwalk show in 1947. dior.com

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MARCH 2016

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st y l e C e n t r a l

Mirrored sunglasses, bespoke handbags and gold loafers are must-buys this month Wo r d s c h a r l o t t e a d s e t t

ELLIOT RHODES Wo r d s p e n d l e h a r t e

W

hy is it, thought Justin Rhodes in 2004, that you see people in expensive clothes wearing cheap belts? And why is it common to have 30 pairs of shoes but only one belt? All this seemed entirely wrong to the economics graduate-turned fashion designer. Belts are an integral part of an outfit; spoiling a good look with a substandard belt is unforgivable.

This became the founding principle of Elliot Rhodes, a store dedicated entirely to the belt. Rhodes found that belts were at best underrepresented in stores and at worst completely missing. ‘At Selfridges there were hardly any belts. Even Hermes only had a tiny selection, and they were £500,’ he remembers. ‘When I wanted to find a colourful belt to match my shoes, there was nothing at all.’ So with his fashion knowledge and love for flamboyance, he set out to develop a belt business. And now, 12 years later, he has three shops in London and one in Japan.

Belts, he insists, are not a replacement product. We should wear different belts for different occasions. A big part of the Elliot Rhodes experience is the mixand-match belt and buckle idea, where interchangeable buckles can be fixed to different straps to create an almost infinite number of potential belts. In the shop, straps are arranged by width and by colour; there are shades ranging from classic browns and blacks to bright whites, oranges and metallics, all in countless kinds of high quality leather. Who could resist? Go on, belt up. ◆ ● elliotrhodes.com

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Supermodel Snaps Equipment

Daria Werbowy reprises her ongoing role as photographer, creative director and model for Equipment’s Spring ’16 campaign, but this time around she has a co-star; Kate Moss. The supermodel duo flew to Mustique minus the usual make-up and styling team, to shoot the French label’s new collection of shirts in a series of intimate holiday snaps. equipmentfr.com

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FASHION / NOTES

8 of the best

DESIGNER OF THE MONTH Rosie Assoulin

POWDER BLUE

Fashion’s label du jour is New York designer Rosie Assoulin, who combines a love of bold colour with sweeping silhouettes. An apprentice from fashion greats such as Oscar de la Renta and Alber Elbaz, Rosie has developed a coveteable brand of chic day to eveningwear.

‘She’s Come Undone’ trousers £1,640 & ‘Robert Morris’ top £735 matchesfashion.com

Look forward to blue skies this spring

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editor’s

PICK

BESPOKE BAGS Ethan K

Luxury exotic skin handbag designer Ethan K is the go-to for the woman who wants to design her own unique tote. Bespoke bags can be decorated with precious stones and crystal studded clasps. The exclusive client list include royalty.

‘Alla’ bespoke crocodile handbag; ethan-k.com

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04

MIRROR IMAGE We s t w a r d L e a n i n g X O livia Palermo 07

Style maven Olivia Palmermo has just launched her second collaboration with US sunglasses brand Westward Leaning.

The 'Rose Gold Collection’ features 8 new styles, all with rose colour mirrored lenses that will add gloss to any outfit.

Sunglasses from £160; net-a-porter.com

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GOING FOR GOLD 08

Gucci

The fashion pack are clamouring for these metallic leather loafer style ‘trophy shoes' as seen at the Gucci Resort ’16 presentation, which encapsulate the current 70’s vintage mood. We’ll be teaming ours with midi skirts and fine knit sweaters.

Metallic leather loafer pumps £495; mytheresa.com

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01. ANDY WOLF Acetate sunglasses £265; andy-wolf.com 02. ROSIE ASSOULIN ‘Morning after’ maxi skirt £905; matchesfashion.com 03. ADAM LIPPES ‘Flounce sleeve’ cotton shirt £606; brownsfashion.com 04. ALEXANDER MCQUEEN Wool mini dress £1,685; brownsfashion.com 05. VALENTINO ‘Rockstud’ medium leather tote £1,285; mytheresa.com 06. PLEATS PLEASE BY ISSEY MIYAKE Pleated cullotes £315; farfetch.com 07. BALENCIAGA ‘Caban’ wool blend coat £1,415; matchesfashion.com 08. JIL SANDER Leather trainers £275; thecorner.com

MARCH 2016

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White lace blouse, £795, Zimmermann Bodysuit (worn underneath), £117, La Perla Pleated chiffon maxi skirt, £1,310, Ermanno Scervino ‘Byzantine 75’ embellished pumps, £725, Aquazzura Rings from a selection starting from £225, Alexia Jordan

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Sheer ROMANCE Set hearts aflutter this spring with chiffon, lace and ruffles Photography Ja mes Lucas Stylist Charlotte Adsett

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Lace midi dress, ÂŁ285, Self Portrait

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Chiffon ombre mini dress, £430, Halston Heritage at net-a-porter.com Embellished Moroccan slippers, £930, Ermanno Scervino Rings from a selection starting from £225, Alexia Jordan

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Tulle puff sleeve top, £480, Simone Rocha at Selfridges Organza skirt, £4,995, Roksanda Rings from a selection starting from £225, Alexia Jordan

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‘Alberta’ silk devore dress, £1,394, Preen by Thornton Bregazzi Body suit (worn beneath), £117, La Perla Black suede ‘Mini blade’ pumps, £700, Casadei Rings from a selection starting from £225, Alexia Jordan

PHOTOGRAPHER: James Lucas FASHION EDITOR: Charlotte Adsett MODEL: Bibi Sharipova at M+P HAIR & MAKE-UP: Alice Oliver using Tom Ford Beauty and Aveda haircare FASHION ASSITANTS: Chalisa Guerrero & Helen Brown PRODUCTION: Beauty & Pro Productions MANY THANKS TO: Joel & Son Fabrics for providing the tulle material used throughout

STOCKISTS: alexiajordanjewellery.com aquazzura.com avenue32.com brownsfashion.com casedei.com ermannoscervino.it jonathansimkhai.com laperla.com net-a-porter.com preenbythorntonbregazzi.com rosksanda.com self-portrait-studio.com selfridges.com sophiawebster.com zimmermannwear.com

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FASHION / TREND ANYA HINDMARCH

Oversize rainbow leather sticker £125; anyahindmarch.com

SLEEPY JONES

SOLID & STRIPED

‘Marina’ silk pajama shirt £245; net-a-porter.com MARY KATRANTZOU RESORT 2016

Anne-Marie’ swimsuit £140 net-a-porter.com

SONIA RYKIEL

MISSONI

Tweed Jacket £1,040; farfetch.com

Crochet-knit trousers £550; net-a-porter.com

RAINBOW BRIGHTS

MARCO DI VINCENZO Metallic dress £710; matchesfashion.com

ANYA HINDMARCH

'Crisp packet' metal clutch bag £1,195; anyahindmarch.com

The Resort ’16 collections were full of rainbow stripes guaranteed to brighten the dullest days

AQUAZZURA

'Rainbow 105' suede sandal £455; net-a-porter.com

B y Charlot te Adset t

VALENTINO

‘Boych’ leather boots £765; farfetch.com

EDIE PARKER

‘Jean’ acrylic box clutch £975; edie-parker.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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FASHION / FOCUS 5 of the best

CYCLE CHIC

MEAME MAIA REFLECTIVE TWEED BLAZER, £295, meame.co.uk

STREET STYLE Would more of us get on our bikes if we knew what to wear? Here we find some stylish options

RAPHA LIBERTY PRINT MERINO SWEATSHIRT, £100, rapha.cc

By PENDLE HARTE

W

ith Boris Johnson’s plans to create multiple cycle superhighways across London, two wheels are increasingly replacing four on our streets. There are more people on bicycles than ever before; and some of them look significantly more stylish than others. Because sartorially, cycling is a challenge. There is a wide variety of technical cycle clothing available, but most of it looks like cycle clothing. And garish lycra won’t get everyone through their day. What about people who don’t want to look sporty? Can’t practical clothing be pretty?

Meame is the brainchild of Islingtonbased couple Megan Aylott and Steven

Azancot. He’s a keen cyclist and she has a background in fashion. When Megan first started cycling, she couldn’t find anything to wear. ‘I don’t want to wear high viz,’ she explains.

‘I noticed that a lot of women weren’t wearing appropriate clothing, because despite being conscious of safety, most cycling clothes are not very attractive.

So I wanted to design something that people wouldn’t be embarrassed to wear.’ Her first collection under the name Meame came out at the end of last year and the pieces focus not only on safety and functionality but also heavily on style. For example, she has designed a blazer that looks like a smart, fitted, tweedy piece and would easily pass as non-cycling wear but which has several key functions

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TRACEY NEULS GEORGE REFLECTIVE CHELSEA BOOT IN DIAMOND, £205, traceyneuls.com

that set it apart from a regular jacket. For one, it glows in the dark – though you’d never know it in daylight. Megan’s degree in textiles led her to develop a unique fabric which incorporates a subtle reflective thread that illuminates like a cateye when a light source hits it, but remains invisible otherwise.

‘I wanted to focus on it not being garish,’ she says. So not only is it safe, but it’s also comfortable thanks to clever pleats at the back like a classic shooting jacket and a brilliant elastic mechanism that allows you to stretch forward and pulls the jacket back into shape, keeping the smart look. It’s breathable, warm, and has an invisible water-repellent coating.

It’s so clever that it’s hard to believe nobody has invented it before.

For people who want to ride to work and not get changed when they get there, don’t want to turn up to a meeting in fluorescent orange (but still need a jacket that’s warm enough while remaining streamlined and breathable) Meame’s range is genius.

In 2010, the launch of the Boris Bike raised the profile of cycling in London; figures from Transport for London show that more people cycled in London in 2015 than ever before. And there has never been so much choice when it comes to performance fashion. ◆

VULPINE WOMAN’S ULTRALIGHT QUILTED THERMAL GILET, £118, vulpine.cc

MEAME.CO.UK

MEAME.CO.UK

OTTO LONDON RAIN CAPE, £88, ottolondon.com

IT GLOWS IN THE dark – though YOU’D NEVER know it in DAYLIGHT

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> BEAUTY CONFIDENTIAL

p 30

MAKE UP: EYE OPENERS

p. 33

SKIN DEEP Those in search of the perfect base coat, look no further. Chanel has launched Les Beiges Healthy Glow Foundation. Available in the UK in nine shades, this light fluid with built-in SPF 25 is made for summer. ÂŁ36; chanel.co.uk

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MARCH 2016

16/02/2016 17:07

B E AU T Y R e v i e w

Our pick of the best shampoo and conditioner sets for Spring 2016 W o r d s C AT H E R I N E H A L E S

THE SHOREDITCH SPA Wo r d s c at h e r i n e h a l e s

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here are few things that alter the aspect of the face as much as a well-shaped eyebrow. Whether you go for Cara Delevigne’s bold and bushy style or a manicured arch à la Gwen Stefani, brows have become as much of a beauty statement as nails or lip colour.

And although I would love a pair of Lily Collins caterpillars, my own brows are on the sparser and lighter side so I take extra care when getting them shaped – remove too much and we stray dangerously close to Pamela Anderson territory.

The Shoreditch Spa is located just off Brick Lane, a hop, skip and jump away from Shoreditch High Street Station. I had decided to entrust them with the challenge of wrangling my awkward brows and was not disappointed. Stylishly furnished, with a welcoming atmosphere, I was quickly whisked away to one of the treatment rooms downstairs where I lay on the bed expectantly. After warning my technician that I was going for a ‘natural but tidy’ look, I braced myself, ready for the oft-felt disappointment that comes with over-waxed brows. I needn’t have worried; she quite understood and adhered the wax strips briskly and with a practised hand. In no time I emerged and, after applying a little eyebrow pencil, admired my newly restored brows.

Efficient, effective and friendly, The Shoreditch Spa is the perfect place for a little lunch break transformation. ◆

● T H E S H O R E D I T C H S PA 167 Brick Lane, E2, 020 7033 9776; theshoreditchspa.com

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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Caffeine Fix Frank Body

Coffee in the shower may sound like a bad idea but Australian brand Frank Body beg to differ. Their Original Coffee Scrub has gained a cult following for its invigorating properties and intoxicating smell. Our advice: prepare to get messy. £11.95; frankbody.com

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HEALTH & BEAUTY / NOTES

7 of the best

NEW ARRIVAL

SHAMPOOS & CONDITIONERS

Glossier

Launched by Into the Gloss founder Emily Weis, Glossier has become a beauty sensation in the US. Fortunately, fans of the brand based in the UK can now purchase their bestselling Balm Dotcom from online retailer Net-A-Porter. £25; net-a-porter.com

02 01

editor's

PICK

BED OF ROSES Trilogy

The world’s first rosehip oil range, New Zealand brand Trilogy is organic and favoured by the likes of Kate Middleton and Gwyneth Paltrow.

Their Antioxidant+ Rosehip Oil in particular has become an essential part of our morning beauty routine.

30ml for £26.50; trilogyproducts.com

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04

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GENTLEMEN ONLY ZV²

This revolutionary serum, designed specifically for men, is an entire grooming regimen in one slickly designed bottle. From the innovative atomiser application to the hydrating, energising formula, this is the single product every man needs in his wash bag. £72; zv2.co.uk

06

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GARDEN VARIETY Jo Malone

This March, London perfumers Jo Malone have launched a limited edition collection to fulfil our olfactory dreams. Herb Garden comprises of five fragrances and includes Sorrel & Lemon Thyme, Carrot Blossom & Fennel and Wild Strawberry & Parsley. jomalone.co.uk

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best

BUY 07

1. AESOP NUTURING SHAMPOO & CONDITIONER, £19 EACH; aesop.com 2. AVEDA INVATI THICKENING SHAMPOO & CONDITIONER, £22 & £24; aveda.co.uk 3. ORIGINAL MINERAL DETOX SHAMPOO & CONDITIONER, £24 & £25; selfridges.com 4. COWSHED HORNY COW HIGH SHINE SHAMPOO & CONDITIONER, £16 & £18; cowshedonline.com 5. MARIA NILA PURE VOLUME SHAMPOO & CONDITIONER, £23 EACH; marianila.com 6. SUSANNE KAUFMANN SHAMPOO FOAMER VOLUME & CONDITIONER VOLUME, £30 & £25; net-a-porter.com 7. ILUXE ORGANICS ABONDANCE SHAMPOO & DETENTE CONDITIONER, £28 & £34; net-a-porter.com

MARCH 2016

16/02/2016 16:09

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CITY & ANGEL

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17/02/2016 09:21

17/02/2016 09:45

HEALTH & BEAUTY / PRODUCTS CHANTECAILLE

Brow Definer, £32; spacenk.com

CHANEL

Sublime de Chanel Infinite Length and Curl Mascara, £25; chanel.co.uk

HIGH DEFINITION Browtec, £16; hdbrows.com

CHARLOTTE TILBURY

Full Fat Lashes, £22; charlottetilbury.com

BOBBI BROWN

No Smudge Mascara, £20; bobbibrown.co.uk

TOM FORD

NARS FOR MICHAEL COSTELLO SS16

Extreme Mascara, £35; selfridges.com

NARS

Audacious Mascara, £21; narscosmetics.co.uk

YSL

Babydoll Mascara, £25; boots.com

BENEFIT

EYE OPENERS

Brow Zings, £24.50; benefitcosmetics.co.uk

DIOR

Diorshow Iconic Mascara, £25; houseoffraser.co.uk

Redefine your lash and brow game with the best products for Spring 2016 B y C AT H E R I N E H A L E S

CLINIQUE

Instant Lift for Brows, £16; clinique.co.uk

MAC

Brow Set, £14; maccosmetics.co.uk

REVLON

Mascara Set, £9.99 each; boots.com

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MARCH 2016

16/02/2016 16:14

W W W. W R I N G E R A N D M A N G L E . C O M

0203 457 7285 info@wringerandmangle.com 13–18 SIDWORTH STREET LONDON FIELDS E8 3SD

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> KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL

p. 36

REVIEWS: FENCHURCH RESTAURANT & THE JONES FAMILY PROJECT

p. 39

EASY AS PIE The River Cottage series has had a freefrom makeover. River Cottage Gluten Free offers up 120 ingenious recipes to make sure no one misses out and everyone gets a piece of the pie. ÂŁ15; waterstones.com

35 Chis_MAR16_Food_Opener.indd 35

MARCH 2016

16/02/2016 16:34

kitchen

8 of the best

e a s t e r t r e at s

CONFIDENTIAL London’s food news and Easter treats to see you through March

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Bella Italia

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Il Cudega 1. CHARBONNEL ET WALKER Easter Fine Dark and Milk Chocolate Selection Box, £32; charbonnel.co.uk 2. HARRODS Cocoa Dusted Almond Easter Egg, £24.95; harrods.com 3. BISCUITEERS Beatrix Potter Easter Collection, £39.50; biscuiteers.com 4. ROCOCO Seasalt Organic Milk Artisan Egg, £24; rococochocolates.com 5. HOTEL CHOCOLAT Classic Ostrich Egg, £75; hotelchocolat.com 6. PAUL Sucette Chocolat Poussin, £1.50; paul-uk.com 7. PRESTAT Dark Chocolate Easter Egg, £16; prestat.co.uk 8. MAISON PIERRE MARCOLINI, Easter in Wonderland, from £13.90 to £105; uk.marcolini.com

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Deli, restaurant and wine bar all rolled into one, Il Cudega is a gastronomic oasis in the heart of Hackney. As well as offering first class and often unique produce direct from Lombardy in Northern Italy, the London Fields foodie destination has an exceptional wine selection boasting delicious prosecco, vino rosso and bianco.

The perfect Saturday afternoon spot.

Railway Arch 358, Westgate Street, E8; ilcudega.com

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FOOD & DRINK / NOTES MARCH cocktail

NUT CASE

Created by hendricks gin

Carlo Rotta

West London-based Italian chocolatier Carlo Rotta’s range of hazelnut-based chocolates includes the impossibly delicious Gianduiotti, small boat-shaped pieces of cocoa and hazelnut mix, and the classic gianduja paste, of which Nutella is a cheap copy. The range is available at Selfridges and Harrods. carlorotta.it

GOLDEN EARS Gail's

The star of Gail’s Easter spread is the hot cross bun: perfected by baker Roy Levy, the spiced sweet buns are loaded with fruit and glazed with spiced syrup for an extra sticky top. But don’t forget these Bunny cupcakes, topped with pink-iced speculoos bunny ears.

33-35 Exmouth Market, EC1R gailsbread.co.uk

Campari Negroni INGREDIENTS

3 cl. Campari • 4 cl. Gin • 3 cl. red vermouth 1 date • 5 rose petals • 1 cl. of peach liqueur ◆

METHOD :

Put all the ingredients in a mixing glass, and then crush them with a muddler. • Use a cocktail strainer to pour the contents into a glass and add ice cubes.• Mix everything with a cocktail spoon.

editor’s

PICK

FULL OF BEANS

of the month

Purssells

Purssells are a new contemporary coffee roaster offering bespoke, premium, specialty coffee, roasted to-order using traditional methods combined with the latest technology. Our pick of the range is their rich, aromatic Queen’s Indian espresso blend. purssells.london

W o r d s c at h e r i n e h a l e s

his crisp, fruity Sauvignon Blanc is one of the first wines from new brand Shorn. Hailing from Marlborough in New Zealand, the playful label pays homage to the country’s green fields filled with sheep and is a perfect example of a classic Sauvignon from that region. Tangy, with tart green notes of gooseberry and sweet undercurrents of passion fruit, it is perfect for spring. ◆ T

WAITING FOR GODO

Godo Eating well at the office is always a challenge. Don’t surrender to the usual lunchtime sandwich; instead, choose from one of new delivery company Godo’s scrumptious Italian dishes, delivered direct to your office.

The pasta with beef ragu will keep you full and contented until dinner. mygodo.com

37 Chis_MARCH15_foodNotes.indd 37

WINE

Shorn Sauvignon Blanc, £8.99; wearewines.co.uk

MARCH 2016

16/02/2016 16:21

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Real progress and development in Yoga comes from Direct One-on-One tuition.

Email us at LondonPYT@yahoo.com

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FOOD & DRINK / REVIEWS

JONES FAMILY PROJECT Wo r d s c at h e r i n e h a l e s

he Jones Family Project has a cosy, welcoming feel.

The lime green chairs dotted around the tartan carpet and over-stuffed red vinyl booths are almost full as we are led to a secluded corner of the restaurant.

We eagerly examine the menu which boasts a comprehensive ‘Land, Sea and Field’ selection and a dedicated steak menu. My starter of spiced crispy squid is tender with a fabulous crunch and the chili mango sauce adds a hearty tang. The Cornish crab is light and delicate and is scooped up on the crispy crostini all too quickly. Unable to resist, I choose the dry-aged 250g fillet steak which comes with triple cooked fries. The quality of the meat is excellent and the steak is cooked to a satisfying and juicy medium rare. I devour every morsel and am soon looking enviously at my companion’s tottering tower of Chuck burger topped with slow cooked oxtail which she had paired with a side of creamy mash. The real hero of the meal, however is the pudding: Dulce de Leche mousse with crispy almonds, raspberries and pistachio sauce.

Sweet but not overly so, with the delicate amaretto flavour of almonds - it is gone in seconds. Good atmosphere, great food. ◆

T

High Society

Fenchurch Restaurant at Sky Garden reaches great culinary heights Wo r d s s t e p h a n i e k i n g

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espite having opened in early last year, the Walkie Talkie building’s 35th floor oasis is still drawing crowds.

Once seated you find yourself overlooking the Gillespies-designed garden and soon soaking in the luxurious dining room setting that epitomises contemporary elegance. Selecting a starter proves challenging: should you go for the Highland game ragout, the harissa macaroni cheese, or choose the Grilled red mullet? Opting for the latter, my guest and I are not disappointed. The brightly coloured dish showcases flakey-soft mullet with lovely melt-in-your-mouth octopus pieces, deep pink cured ham slices and a finely chopped bright green olive garnish.

To complement the meal we try a 2013 Tbilvino Tsinandali from Fenchurch Restaurant’s extensive cellar of international

wines. This orange-hued Georgian drop is light and rounded by wildflower, oak and vanilla notes; ideal flavour companions for our mains of succulent corn fed chicken with buttery-smooth gnocchi, wild mushrooms and leek shavings, and dover sole with crunchy samphire and capers that cut through creamy parcels of scallop and shrimp mousse.

We can’t resist the glazed peanut and chocolate bar for pudding, which comes with a textbook quinelle of banana yoghurt ice cream. This beautifully bamboozling combination of tart and subtly-sweet notes offsets the slightly salty, Snickersreminiscent brownie, and is an excellent metaphor for what to expect every time you go to Fenchurch Restaurant: perfection. ◆

● fenchurch restaura nt

Sky Garden, 1 Sky Garden Walk, EC3M; skygarden.london

39 C&A_March16_RestaurantReview.indd 39

● jones family project

78 Great Eastern Street, EC2A; jonesfamilyproject.co.uk

MARCH 2016

16/02/2016 16:28

The Lyceum is a small, independent, co-educational nursery and school for children ages 3 - 11, located near Old Street in central London.

We focus on giving the children in our care, high-level skills both academically and within the arts, creative and performing, which are achieved through innovative organisation and high-quality teaching. “The caring secure environment, in which smiles and laughter are a significant part of school life, provides a fully supported backdrop to promote learning� - ISI Oct 2014 Inspection

um e c y L We love t e the r a . . e . o learn... l o W o ! h o c l l S e H nd a y r e Nurs

...and use new technologies

...and sin

g

lay

...and p

e e lov s! w tly friend s o m but g great in k a m

Open Mornings - First Tuesday of every month - booking is essential Contact us to visit today! - www.lyceumschool.co.uk 6 Paul Street, City of London, London EC2A 4JH

LYCEUM.indd 1

T: 020 7247 1588

E: admin@lyceumschool.co.uk

15/02/2016 16:01

> SMALL TALK: SPOTLIGHT ON SLOVENIAN DESIGN AND TIP TOP TIGHTS

p. 43

MA CHÉRIE Jacadi returns with an SS16 collection to covet. Classic designs have been given a contemporary twist and are inspired by the brand’s heritage archive as well as the ‘French holiday’. Perfect for summer occasions and weddings. jacadi.co.uk

41 CHIS_MARCH16_Kids_Opener.indd 41

MARCH 2016

17/02/2016 14:47

ABBEY ROAD FRAMING 020 7328 6915

Bespoke & Ready-Made Frames Mirrors, Limited Edition Prints Ceramics, Greeting Cards & Gifts

67 Abbey Road St John’s Wood London NW8 0AE info@abbeyroadframing.co.uk www.abbeyroadframing.co.uk Absolutely1502-AbbeyRoadFramingFINAL.indd 1

27/01/2015 16:32

The Fireplace Specialists

“We are the UK’s leading suppliers and installers of luxury fireplaces and stoves manufactured by DRU, Faber, Spartherm, Stovax and many more.

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17/02/2016 09:45

KIDS & EDUCATION / NOTES

BRAND FOCUS

ANIMAL INSTINCT

The Animals Observatory The new fashion brand from design talent Laia Aguilar (formerly of Bobo Choses) and entrepreneur Jan Andreu has launched. Channelling the ‘animal world’ as seen through a child’s eyes, the debut collection is inspired by the films of Jacques Tati and Aguilar’s own illustrations. en.smallable.com

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

SMALL TALK Animal instinct, wink-face tights and the ultimate party balloons

UP AND AWAY Bon Bon Balloons

All balloons are not made equal, as these sparkle-filled stunners show.

Set up by Rebecca Moyster, Bon Bon Balloons specialises in bespoke party pieces with handmade streamers.

Prices for a decorative string balloon start from £35; bonbonballons.com

F

rom a workshop in distant Slovenia (and the minds of a talented cabal of painters and designers) comes Ooh Noo, a contemporary childrens brand specialising in cosy bed linen, stylish home decor and beautiful, handmade toys - of which this lightweight yet durable little pram is our current favourite. Every Ooh Noo piece is completely handcrafted, and the love that goes into the deliciously minimalist designs is clear in the quality of the finished articles. You can also take comfort in their approach to product testing, with every design - from bed sheets and blankets to their sweet hand-knitted bunny rabbit - put through its paces in the founders’ own homes, by their own children. A simple approach, but as Ooh Noo proves, simplicity rules. ◆

Toy Pram, €98,70; ooh-noo.com

TIGHTS PLEASE

BAG IT UP

Braveling ¢ Specialising in imaginative threads for happy legs, Braveling’s new Cheeky Grin tights have got us weak at the knees. Designed in London and manufactured in Europe, they are ideal for mischief-makers (who, me?

It couldn’t be!) and gifting and come beautifully packaged. ◆ £16; tippytoeskids.co.uk

Tellkiddo ¢ Make tidying up fun and easy with the new range of paper storage bags from Stockholmbased brand Tellkiddo. Ideal for any room, these delightful bags merge functionality with playful design, offering the perfect accessory for parents. ◆

£14; nubie.co.uk

43 CHIS_Mar16_Kids_Notes_.indd 43

MARCH 2016

17/02/2016 14:47

GF SEAT, A330, BKK & DXB.pdf

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2/12/15

10:29 AM

12/02/2015 15:00

> GETTING THE BEST OUT OF MARRAKECH

p. 46

UK GETAWAY: DURDLE DOOR, DORSET

p. 50

OUT OF AFRICA Eschew Europe in favour of somewhere a little more exotic this spring; Marrakech balances the upbeat tempo of city life with the leisure and luxury of a desert resort, all under a hot sun on page 46.

45 CHIS_MARCH16_Travel_Opener.indd 45

MARCH 2016

16/02/2016 16:41

MARKET TOWN

Experience the vibrancy and vitality of Morocco and the luxury and tranquility of the Royal Palm Marrakech in equal measure Wo r d s c at h e r i n e h a l e s

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he very word Marrakech has the exotic, mysterious ring of a faraway place. Yet what makes it a perfect holiday destination is its proximity. From London, the flight takes a paltry three hours and 40 minutes, from miserable, rainy Gatwick to sunny, exotic Morocco, from black and white into colour – and no time difference, so no jet lag. However, as soon as you step off the plane, it’s a different world. The intense heat and hazy, dusty landscape immediately reminds you that you are in fact in Africa. Ideal for those longing to escape spring or autumn in England, March and September are the best times for almost certain sun but no excessive heat.

So, taking all these positives into consideration, why would anyone hesitate? There seems to be a notion

that Marrakech is not a relaxing place to go on holiday. The depiction in popular culture of the old Medina in particular is one of tourists being assailed on all sides by carpet vendors and snake charmers whilst mopeds roar past, donkeys bray and chickens are violently expelled into your path. And while this is accurate up to a point, it’s certainly not the whole picture. The key is to choose the right hotel, where they have the experience to help you navigate the markets – a real retreat, a port in this sometimes stormy city. That’s where the Royal Palm Marrakech comes in, a short 20 minute drive from the centre, so guests have great access to the sights and sounds of the markets, but can return to an oasis of calm. This contrast is one of the things the Royal Palm excels in. The stunning grounds with their ancient olive trees, as well as the titular palms, the undulating grassy knolls of the golf

THE MEDINA is A PLACE TO FIND

one of-a-kind

TREASURES

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TRAVEL / WANDERLUST

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MARCH 2016

16/02/2016 16:43

TRAVEL / WANDERLUST

SEVEN HOURS fly by in a BLUR

Al Aïn, the all female restaurant in the Royal Palm

course and expanses of water give it a lush feel, while the best view of the snow-capped Atlas Mountains can be had leaning over the side of the main pool.

Elements of Moroccan culture and style are subtly incorporated throughout the interior, with bright mosaic tiles adorning the walls, twinkling lanterns dangling from the ceilings and exquisite carpets covering the marble floors. Of its three restaurants, Al Aïn is the prettiest and boasts an authentic Moroccan menu, with sheep’s brains for the bold and flavorsome tagines for the less so. Al Aïn also has a unique selling point: the entire restaurant is run by women, from the head chef, Meryam Diane, to the servers bringing out the dishes. When you can bear to leave your gorgeous room and venture out into the main hotel, you are greeted with smiles and warmth by the

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staff and other guests, many of whom are on their sixth or seventh stay.

Children are also catered for with a charming and thoughtfully designed kids' club that has its own pool and outdoor cinema, not to mention a flock of shaggy wooden sheep dotted around that wouldn’t look out of place in an upmarket London interiors shop.

Tear yourself away from the pool or the fabulous, white-walled spa and the souks are a must-visit. A far cry from the UK’s homogenised high street, or the same old international chains in every capital city, the Medina really is a place to find one-of-a kind-treasures and yes, bargains. Carpets are a nobrainer and most reputable sellers are

able to ship the bulky rolls to save you lugging them around all day or adding extra kilos to your baggage allowance. It is a shopping experience like no other, sipping mint tea while enthusiastic vendors gabble in a mixture of French and English and unfurl countless rugs of all hues and sizes. Two other items that are worth the haggling are leather bags and Berber silver, but to find the real gems you have to truly surrender to the souks and go deep into the winding maze of shopfronts and stalls. Every so often you may find yourself walking in Carrie Bradshaw’s stilettos as you meander down the alleyways they filmed for Sex and the City 2. Those looking for refreshment can find it on the terrace of Café Arabe, which looks out over the rooftops of the Medina and is one of the few places in that quarter to serve alcoholic drinks. Seven hours fly by in a blur but it can be as exhausting as it is exhilarating. At the end of the day, the best feeling is knowing you can wash off the dust and dirt in your giant bathtub before heading to the bar for a cocktail, taking it out onto the terrace and listening to the strains of a live band floating through the air. A perfect ride on the Marrakech Express. ◆ ¢ Royal Palm Marrakech Three nights in a Junior Suite on a B&B basis, Economy Class flights and private hotel transfers from £856 per person sharing.

Call Beachcomber on 01483 445685 or visit beachcombertours.co.uk

48 16/02/2016 16:44

Bespoke Kitchen and Wardrobe Design www.neatsmith.co.uk

Neatsmith quality

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26/01/2016 10/02/2016 15:31 15:41

TRAVEL / UK GETAWAY THE HOUSE

T

hese original farm buildings have been converted into six beautiful holiday cottages, named after their original functions. So we are in the Cart Shed, a spacious twobedroom conversion with a rustic luxe feel. With lots of wood and exposed brick, it retains something of its barn roots while adding all the comforts you could ask for – a well-equipped kitchen, comfortable outsize sofas, a huge television and excellent showers and beds. Best of all, there’s a heated outdoor swimming pool shared by the six cottages, located in a suntrap of a spot accessed from the back door. Everything is comfortable, stylish and well considered. ◆

THE SITE

DURDLE DOOR HOLIDAY COTTAGES L u lwo r t h , D o r s e t

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rrive at night and open the curtains in the morning for surprise views of the sea, just visible across a rolling landscape. This is the Jurassic coast, one of the UK’s most beautiful spots and a World Heritage site. Durdle Door itself is a much-photographed natural limestone arch, worth the fairly steep descent to the beach. The coastal path is a few minutes’ walk from the cottage – follow it all the way to Lulworth Cove and enjoy breathtaking views of the sea and the coastline. ◆

Wo r d s p e n d l e h a r t e

WHAT TO DO

T

he six cottages share a private outdoor pool that’s a delight on a sunny day. There’s also a communal games room for guests, though unless you’re here in deepest winter there’s really no need. With some of the world’s most beautiful beaches on your doorstep, there’s no shortage of activities. Walk the path (admiring the views) to Lulworth where there’s a Heritage Centre focusing on local wildlife and geology. Or drive to Lulworth Castle and Park, a partly ruined early 17th century estate that offers fantastic views from its towers and lots of games on the lawn for children. ◆

WHERE TO EAT

B

uy your own fish from Lulworth’s Cove Fish shop, or visit the Weld Arms pub near the castle for local scallops and home-smoked cod. The Lulworth Cove Inn has good fish and chips and a lovely garden. ◆

THE DAMAGE Three-night weekends in the Cart Shed (two bedrooms; sleeps five) start at £386 in low season, rising to £988 in high season.

Durdle Door Holiday Cottages, Lulworth, Dorset durdledoorholidaycottages.com ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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Bespoke Wardrobe and Kitchen Design www.neatsmith.co.uk

Neatsmith quality

design

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0800 1956 595

FINCHLEY ROAD

HATCH END

TEDDINGTON

158 Finchley Road

471 Uxbridge Road

3 Broad Street

NW3 5HH

HA5 4JS

TW11 8QZ

service

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ABSOLUTELY COMPETITION

WIN a 5 star two night stay at Chewton Glen Absolutely are offering readers a two night mini break in one of the UK’s finest hotels, Chewton Glen Hotel & Spa, courtesy of luxury hotel group Relais & Chateaux.

To win a break in the luxury Chewton Glen Hotel & Spa on the edge of the historic New Forest National Park, Hampshire, go to

www.absolutely.london and fill out the short readership survey.

Terms and conditions apply.

ABSOLUTELY COMPETITION CHEWTON GLEN.indd 3

09/11/2015 13:08

DINING LIVING OFFICE

London & Surrey

KITCHENS

020 7253 3206 or 01372 379810

BEDROOMS

www.wharfside.co.uk

WHARFSIDE MARCH.indd 1 Absolutely Magazine March 2016.indd 1

27/01/2016 26/01/2016 15:26 16:37

‘DREER’S LARGE FLOWERING’ CHROMOLITHOGRAPH FROM DREER’S GARDEN BOOK, SEVENTY-FOURTH ANNUAL EDTION, 1912

> INTERIOR INSPIRATIONS

p. 56

BRIGHT IDEAS

p. 58

BOX FRESH

p. 61

FLOWER POWER Spring has sprung with this blossoming collaboration between Surface View and the New York Botanical Garden. The new collection of bold botanicals brings to life horticultural artworks from the Rare Book Collections of the iconic living museum’s Mertz Library.

Mural from £60 per square metre; surfaceview.co.uk

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MARCH 2016

16/02/2016 16:51

10 of the best:

the coNcrete edition

Modern ideas, designs and styles for your home Wo r d s e l i z a b e t h h u t t o n

SCP

Shaving Soap in Concrete Cup; £48.95, scp.co.uk

HOLLY’S HOUSE

Porthos Concrete Vase; £22, hollys-house.com

editor’s

PICK IITTALA

Leimu Lamp; from £495, cloudberryliving.co.uk

Bargain Hunt

LYON BETON

Concrete Magazine Rack; £115, amara.com

PLANT AND MOSS

Akita Tape Dispenser; £120, plantandmoss.com

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

CHIS_MAR_16_Interior_Insp_.indd 56

The Sample Sale This month, London is set to host its very first multi-brand design sample sale. Sale stock will include design classics, limited edition pieces and discontinued lines, as well as a different daily ‘star buy’ from the likes of Tom Dixon, Case Furniture (pictured) and more.

Unlike fashion, thankfully, furniture is one size fits all.

From 4–6 March 2016; Victoria House, Bloomsbury Square, WC1B thesamplesale.co.uk

56 16/02/2016 16:54

HOMES & INTERIORS / NOTES editor’s

MENU

Concrete Pendant Lamp, menu.as

PICK

PERFECTLY POISED

Anglepoise The iconic 1930’s Anglepoise lamp is going nowhere. Re-imagined in miniature form, this cute Studio lamp will be available in a palette of earthy pinks and soft, warm greys as well as a rich teal and deep inky blue-grey.

From £185; anglepoise.com

FRAMED

Abbe y Road Framing Established over 30 years ago, Abbey Road Framing have a huge range of frame styles and materials to choose from. Whether you want to frame pictures, photographs, memorabilia or souvenirs, they can do it all. abbeyroadframing.co.uk

URBI ET ORBI

Globus 280 Pendant Lamp; From £160; clippings.com

FUTURE AND FOUND Willmann Vase, £70; futureandfound.com

DIY JOY

must

D o i t Yo u r s e l f

by Thomas Bärnthaler This new book seeks to redefine DIY for the flat-pack generation.

With the intention to inspire, the clear instructions and handdrawn step-by-step illustrations make it wonderfully easy to assemble items like this Flying Shelf by Matteo Thun. £19.95, uk.phaidon.com

HAVE

PASINGA

Dodecahedron Tillandsia Planter, From £15.99, pasinga.com

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

ferm LIVING Ten years ago, ferm LIVING launched ten wallpaper designs that propelled the brand into the design industry. Now, ferm can be found around the house, from the kitchen to the bedroom or bathroom. What remains the same is their ability to design products that can totally transform a room. fermliving.com

57 CHIS_MAR_16_Interior_Insp_.indd 57

MENU

JWDA Concrete Lamp, £120, goodhoodstore.com

MARCH 2016

16/02/2016 16:55

HOMES & INTERIORS / INSPIRATION HERMÈS

‘Lampe de travail’, £6,010; hermes.com

HABITAT

GIORGIO ZANELLATO

‘Sira’ rattan oversized shade, £70; habitat.co.uk

‘Mirage’ lights, POA; gallerialuisdellepiane.it

HECTOR FINCH

‘Giacomo Amber Glass Table Lamp’, £1049.40; hectorfinch.com

HOLLY HUNT

‘Compass floor lamp’ with silk shade, £7,050; hollyhunt.com

INES COLE

‘Z1 Light’, £325; inescole.com

POOL

‘Calée’ lamps, from €289; poolhouse.eu

SABINE MARCELIS

‘Voie’ light series, prices vary; sabinemarcelis.com

FOSCARINI

‘Binic’ table lamp, £117 each, by Ionna Vautrin; aram.co.uk

BUSTER + PUNCH

busterandpunch.com

BRIGHT IDEAS

THE LIGHTING STORE

‘Laser Light’, £145; thelightingstore.co.uk

THE SOFA AND CHAIR COMPANY

‘Dorsal’ table lamp, £1,745; thesofaandchair.co.uk

We’re carrying a torch for these shining lights

ROLL & HILL

By jessica klingelfuss

CHRISTOPHER JENNER ‘The Light House’ crystal table lamp, £2,000; mintshop.co.uk

THE APARTMENT

‘Gino Sarfatti Wall Light’, €1,270; theapartment.dk

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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‘Agnes Cascade Chandelier – 20 light’, £16,800, by Lindsey Adelman; scp.co.uk

58 16/02/2016 16:53

£379 Kleur Sideboard

£99 Hill Coffee and Nesting Side Tables

£30 OFF* SHOP ONLINE WITH CODE TWOTONE *£300 minimum spend, offer ends 18th April 2016 and cannot be used alongside other offers.

Subject to availability.

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10/02/2016 09/02/2016 12:31 15:14

Looks like wood, feels like wood, better than wood Bibliotheque’s porcelain wood planks do not need to be sealed, require minimal maintenance and - due to the material’s durability and anti-slip finish are suitable for any area wet or dry.

Arch 2, St Jame’s Lane, Muswell Hill, London N10 3QX l 020 8365 2084 l www.bibliotheque.co.uk

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HOMES & INTERIORS / GARDENS

Box Fresh Gardening is full of health benefits and Katie Gilbert is on a mission to get urbanites interested. Absolutely Wo r d s P e n d l e H a r t e

E

veryone knows that gardening is good for you. The benefits of nurturing plants and getting your hands dirty range from boosting your immune system and fitness levels to improving your relationships, your mental health and your general mood.

But many Londoners, even those with outside space, are lacking in basic plant literacy. You might want to look out of your window at an attractive space full of greenery but how to achieve it?

North Londoner Katie Gilbert’s doctorate in psychology and interest in the positive power of gardening have led her to launch BloomBox Club, a scheme designed to kickstart gardening habits in the uninitiated. The idea incorporates a delivery service along the lines of a vegetable box but with plants, alongside a series of gardening workshops infused with the idea of mindfulness. Sign up to the club and you’ll receive a delivery

of seasonal plants – the bloom box – containing shrubs, bedding, bulbs and soil along with comprehensive instructions on how to maintain them in the form of well-designed plant care cards, an informative website and even a dedicated app. The boxes promise to bring instant beauty to their surroundings and inspire a new interest. ‘At BloomBox we know that gardening is good for the soul. We take great pride in raising awareness of the health benefits, both physical and emotional, that gardening can have on our wellbeing,’ says Gilbert.

Because really it is wellbeing that is at the heart of the scheme. Gilbert has devised a schedule of Mindful Gardening workshops to take place at St Mary’s Secret Garden in Hackney, where she leads participants in introductory

GARDENING is good for THE SOUL. WE TAKE GREAT pride in raising awareness OF THE BENEFITS that GARDENING can have on our WELLBEING

meditation sessions and a discussion of mindfulness concepts before taking an exercise in getting your hands dirty and creating a Japanese moss ball Kokedama. ‘Being outside, undertaking manual work and being present with the environment around you is a gentle, peaceful and self-giving exercise,’ explains Gilbert.

Bloombox delivers four plant boxes a year to those who sign up to the Four Seasons Package as well as one-off gift boxes, edible boxes and individual seasons boxes. All plants are grown by a dedicated Royal Horticultural Society grower and designed to look good together, while each selection will build on the previous one to build a whole garden in time. Tempted? There’s still time to order the Mother’s Day gift box as a taster. ◆ bloomboxclub.com

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MARCH 2016

16/02/2016 17:00

020 8802 4040 islington@myhome.co.uk

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PROPERTY NEWS p.68 IN THEIR OWN WORDS p.80 NIGEL LEWIS: FAMOUS PLACES p.96

DOWNSIDE CRESCENT NW3

ÂŁ5,250,000

beautiful semi-detached house spread over three floors. Having recently undergone an architecturally designed remodelling, this very attractive property benefits from an abundance of natural light and well laid out living and entertaining space. Backing onto a private tennis club, the property is also ideally located for the shops and amenities of Haverstock Hill and the fashionable Englands Lane. u

A

BELSIZE PARK 020 3815 3350

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knightfrank.co.uk

MARCH 2016

17/02/2016 11:01

50 years of fulfilling dreams

...for all generations

CREIGHTON AVENUE, EAST FINCHLEY, N2

£1,695,000 FREEHOLD

A four bedroom, semi detached home with an architecturally designed ground floor living space.

THE OWNERS LOVE…

WE’VE NOTICED…

“We love our light open plan space we have created down stairs”

The foundations are ready for aside extension into and above the garage.

The loft can also be converted into one or more bedrooms incorporating ensuit bathrooms and dressing areas STPP.

“The main living area opens the full width of the property onto the large decking area” “We have had a lot of fun as a family and with friends using the space, even enjoying the garden during the winter months as we have a lovely full view of the garden”

• Four bedrooms • Family bathroom • Open plan dining area • Integrated kitchen with granite work tops • Utility room • South facing landscaped garden • EPC Rating: D

Contact Chris Fairclough at our East Finchley office on 020 8883 0077 • MG_NXNW.indd 1

www.martyngerrard.co.uk 15/02/2016 11:00

50 years of fulfilling dreams

...for all generations

TORRIANO COTTAGES, KENTISH TOWN, NW5

£799,950 LEASEHOLD

A two double bedroom apartment, with open plan living and off street parking.

THE OWNERS LOVE… “The patio garden is great for BBQ’s in the summer and offers fantastic privacy when entertaining” “Off street parking has proven to be useful for having friends and family around” “We have lived in this area for over 30 years benefitting from the great transport links and surrounding schools”

WE’VE NOTICED… The property will be sold with a new 125 year lease.

The property will be sold chain free.

• Two double bedrooms • One bathroom • Open plan living • Off street parking • Video entry • Patio garden • EPC Rating: C

Contact Anthony W-Denny at our Kentish Town office on 020 7267 3737 • MG_NXNW.indd 2

www.martyngerrard.co.uk 15/02/2016 11:00

50 years of fulfilling dreams

...for all generations

CRANBOURNE ROAD, MUSWELL HILL, N10

£1,300,000 FREEHOLD

A four double bedroom Edwardian family home, within easy reach of Alexandra Park Secondary school.

THE OWNERS LOVE…

WE’VE NOTICED…

“The friendly and welcoming nature of the road, where people are interested and concerned for you without being intrusive”

There is potential to convert the loft STPP.

“That we are surrounded by so many green and public spaces” “That we have great transport links (tube and bus) into central London including three night bus services”

There are a number of popular schools in the local area.

• Four bedrooms • Three reception rooms • Loft space • Basement • Family bathroom and en-suite shower room • Downstairs WC • EPC Rating: E

Contact Rowland Slinn at our Muswell Hill office on 020 8448 3388 • MG_NXNW.indd 3

www.martyngerrard.co.uk 15/02/2016 11:00

50 years of fulfilling dreams

...for all generations

RECTORY GARDENS, CROUCH END, N8

£1,395,000 FREEHOLD

A refurbished five bedroom semi-detached family house with off-street parking.

THE OWNERS LOVE… “The house has plenty of living space on the ground floor which can be used in different configurations” “The convenience of having off-street parking, it’s unusual to have such a large driveway in the area” “Located in a great position for local schools, parks and the amenities of both High Street Hornsey and Crouch End Broadway”

WE’VE NOTICED… The property comes with a 10 year LABC warranty.

Local transport options include Hornsey Station (to Moorgate / Kings Cross) and the W3 / 144 bus routes.

• Five double bedrooms • Kitchen diner • Three bathrooms and downstairs WC • Off street parking for three cars • Private garden • EPC Rating: E

Contact Mark Fordham at our Crouch End office on 020 8348 5135 • MG_NXNW.indd 4

www.martyngerrard.co.uk 15/02/2016 11:01

PROPERTY ROUND UP The inside scoop in your area

GREENCROFT GARDENS, NW6

HOUSE HUNTING

MOST SATISFYING TRANSACTION

I NEVER THOUGHT I’D SEE

Solent Road, NW6. We advertised this lovely family home for sale on our first day back into the office in 2016. Within 24 hours we had four viewings booked which we managed to turn into two full asking price offers.

MOST INTERESTING PROPERTY

CORY DEVAYYA

Associate Partner One Property Consultants

A stunning one double bedroom flat in Muswell Hill. Alexandra Palace is immediately behind so from your living room you have this incredible view of the Palace up above you shining down in all it's glory. The new tenant has invited me to enjoy the fireworks this year.

GLENLOCH ROAD NW3

£ 2,500 Per Week his elegant six bedroom home is conveniently located moments from the amenities of Belsize Park. This grand house offers tastefully

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

NXNW_Mar16_PRU.indd 68

I agreed a very charming but tiny cottage to rent in the heart of Kensington. An elderly gentlemen explained he was not interested in the house but instead was keen to secure so he could park his vintage Aston Martin.

FINEST PROPERTY SHOWCASE

Greencroft Gardens, NW6. A refurbished three bedroom apartment in South Hampstead. ◆

One Property Consultants Bolsover Street, 020 7339 3073; onepropertyconsultants.com

dining room opening on to a terraced garden, six double bedrooms and three bathrooms. The property benefits from a roof terrace, balcony, two garages and a self-contained staff quarters. ◆

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

T

HE WAS NOT INTERESTED IN THE HOUSE BUT INSTEAD WAS KEEN TO SECURE SO HE COULD PARK HIS VINTAGE ASTON MARTIN

refurbished family space spanning 3,400 sq ft and comprises a large reception room with fireplace and a graceful bay window taking in lots of light; eat-in kitchen,

Benham & Reeves Residential Lettings Hampstead, 020 7435 9681; brlets.co.uk

68 17/02/2016 11:27

PROPERTY / NEWS

ASK THE EXPERT

PUBLIC KNOWLEDGE

SAYRHA ELAHI

MATTHEW SMITH

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

Sales Manager KFH

AG E N T O N D E S I G N

~ Spotlight on ~

GILBEY HOUSE

HIGHGATE Best school: There are several popular primary schools in Highgate, including St Michael’s, St Josephs and Highgate School. Highgate and Channing Schools are fee-paying secondary schools that attract a lot of buyers to the area.

What to do on a rainy day: You can while away a rainy afternoon in one of Highgate’s many pubs, or you could visit Kenwood House, a former stately home. You could also improve your mind and visit the Highgate Literary & Scientific Institute.

Best restaurant: Visit the great independent steak restaurant Popes Eye, or, if chicken is your thing, you can’t beat Chicken Shop on Highgate Road, make sure to try their apple pie too! If you have a sweet tooth, visit the lovely tea house, High Tea. Sports and recreation: You can go for a stroll or play a game of tennis in Waterlow Park or Hampstead Heath, or if you’re brave enough you can take a dip in Highgate ponds. You could also join the many cyclists and climb up Swains Lane and Highgate West Hill. u

KFH Highgate, 020 3792 4513; kfh.co.uk

NW1

£1,700,000 he steps up to the living area and away from the dining area, gives a great sense of separation but an almost theatrical feeling of entering towards the home entertainment area.

The master bedroom spread across almost all of the top floor, once again offers a sense of grandeur

T

that is echoed from the living room space.

The white stone brick work of the exterior creates a truly unique looking building and is unusually pretty for what was once used as a gin warehouse.

The feeling of open space is echoed throughout the building, with its internal balconies which overlook the large yellow origami lanterns hovering over a Japanese water bridge on the ground, turning what could have been an incredibly plain area into the feeling of an art exhibit. ◆

Chestertons Camden, 020 7267 2053; chestertons.com

MEET THE TEAM

TAT L E R S

tatlers.co.uk

STEVE HERMAN

HRISTINA LAZAROVA LETTINGS MANAGER

SENIOR SALES NEGOTIATOR

SALES NEGOTIATOR

~ Ea st F inchle y ~

~ Muswell Hill ~

~ Muswell Hill ~

~ Crouch End ~

020 8883 1001

020 8444 1771

020 8444 1771

020 8341 4050

I have worked in a customerfocused environment for 10 years and there is no better feeling than knowing you’ve just made someone’s day.

We wouldn’t be where we are without the loyalty of our clients. ◆

Having taken the first job I could almost 20 years ago, I can't imagine doing anything else. I love the period properties I sell and the journey I go on with sellers and buyers. I enjoy salsa dancing in my spare time. ◆

After more than 10 years working as a Sales Negotiator, I have learnt a lot about building relationships and customer service.

Every transaction is a new challenge and I thrive on the fact that every day is different. ◆

MANAGER

After 30 years in the industry, I believe in old fashioned customer service and treating clients with the upmost respect.

I am a devoted husband and proud father and I like my cars and football. ◆

GEORGINA NICOLAOU

LEILA ASRAR

Q&A

I HAVE A SHARED OWNERSHIP FLAT WHICH IS CURRENTLY STAIRCASING TO 100%. ONCE THE FINAL STAIRCASING HAS TAKEN PLACE I WILL NEED TO EXTEND MY LEASE. DO I HAVE TO WAIT FOR TWO YEARS BEFORE I CAN EXTEND OR DOES THE DATE OF THE FINAL STAIRCASING NOT MATTER PROVIDED I HAVE OWNED THE PROPERTY FOR TWO YEARS PRIOR?

n order to qualify for a lease extension under the Leasehold Reform, Housing and Urban Development Act 1993 (the Act), you must have a “long lease". A “long lease” includes a shared ownership lease which is owned 100% by the tenant. Therefore it would appear that the tenant of a shared ownership lease would only have a “long lease” where the tenant’s total share was 100%. As the qualifying condition set out in the legislation is that the tenant has been a qualifying tenant of the flat for the last two years, it would appear that you must wait two years following registration of the final staircasing before becoming eligible to serve a notice claiming a lease extension. However, following a recent case in 2013 it is considered that a shared ownership lease granted for a term of more than 21 years qualifies one to claim a lease extension under the Act regardless of the tenant’s total share. It is therefore arguable that the tenant does not have to wait either until it has reached 100% ownership or for the two years after that. u

I

Contact Assistant Solicitor Sayrha Elahi with no obligation on 020 7354 3000 or email sayrha.elahi@colmancoyle.com.

80 Upper Street, Islington, N1 0NU, colmancoyle.com

SPOTLIGHT ON NORTH LONDON 1 BED FLAT

AVERAGE PRICES AND RENTAL VALUES BY PROPERTY TYPE – 2015

£530,518 £426 per week

2 BED FLAT

3 BED HOUSE

4 BED HOUSE

£852,331 £1,254,740 £2,245,854 £581 £1,107 £1,592 per week

per week

per week

Data provided by LonRes

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MARCH 2016

17/02/2016 11:28

Completely at home in North London.

Our services Sales and Lettings Property Management Block and Estate 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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10/02/2016 09/02/2016 11:45 15:57

Highgate Hill, Highgate, N19 £685,000 Highgate 020 8341 6666 highgate.sales@kfh.co.uk

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An exceptional one/two bedroom duplex apartment situated within this gated former Victorian school building.

Highgate Hill is located moments from the underground station and bus routes and the local amenities of Highgate Village and Waterlow Park being only a short walk away.

• • • • • • • • • •

Double height reception One/two bedrooms Integrated kitchen Bathroom and en suite shower Excellent décor Gated development Off street parking Close to Waterlow Park Shared freehold EPC rating D

10/02/2016 09/02/2016 11:46 16:51

Carlton Hill, St John’s Wood, NW8 £1,800,000 A stunning apartment, carefully reconfigured and beautifully refurbished by the current owners, to offer well proportioned accommodation including a triple aspect bedroom with vaulted ceiling.

This property is located on a tree lined residential road which is superbly located for St John’s Wood High Street, with its restaurants, cafés and boutiques and station (Jubilee Line). Also offering access to great road links and Regent’s Park.

Leasehold. EPC rating E. St John’s Wood 020 7586 8001 stjohnswood.sales@kfh.co.uk

Ridge Road, Crouch End, N8 £1,895,000 A truly stunning and tastefully extended five bedroom family house offering wonderful living space and a southerly garden.

Situated on a sought after residential road in Crouch End, near Harringay train station. Freehold.

EPC rating C. Crouch End 020 8348 8181 crouchend.sales@kfh.co.uk

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10/02/2016 09/02/2016 11:46 16:52

Jacksons Lane, Highgate, N6 £2,800 pcm Highgate 020 8342 7030 highgate.lettings@kfh.co.uk

This property has been completely redesigned by award winning architects RCKa, to create a spacious and contemporary garden property. The house boasts an 18ft reception room, two large bedrooms, one with an en suite bathroom and a 107ft south facing garden.

Highgate Village and Highgate underground station (Northern Line) are both located within walking distance to the property.

• • • • • • • • • •

Two double bedrooms 18ft reception room Glazed kitchen area Bathroom and separate en suite Study room Contemporary styling 107ft south facing garden Excellent transport links Unfurnished EPC rating C

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

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Ferncroft Avenue, Hampstead, NW3 £2,145 pcm A modern and spacious two double bedroom apartment with a newly refurbished bathroom and high ceilings situated in a period conversion.

This property is located on a highly sought after residential road of Hampstead, near the underground station. Part furnished. EPC rating D. Belsize Park 020 7586 9006 belsizepark.lettings@kfh.co.uk

Church Crescent, Muswell Hill, N10 £2,730 pcm An exceptional two double bedroom split level, ground floor flat boasting a private rear garden and south facing roof terrace with stunning panoramic views over London.

This property is located near Highgate underground station. Furnished. EPC rating D. Muswell Hill 020 8883 2340 muswellhill.lettings@kfh.co.uk

£210 tenancy agreement fee per property.

Other fees apply, visit kfh.co.uk/lettingsfees

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10/02/2016 09/02/2016 11:46 16:52

PROPERTY / PRICE COMPARISON £

NIGEL LEWIS

£1.35

PRICE BANDS

Million

What price to be near ‘outstanding’ secondary schools?

£780,000

RICHMOND

and buy a home, how much does it cost? We’ve cast around London to find four educational hotspots where some of the best secondary schools are to be found.

T

CHISWICK

£ 9 9 2 ,0 0 0 a ve r a ge he area has ten extremely good secondary schools including the much lauded Chiswick Community School, London Oratory and West London Free School, famously set up by writer Toby Young. And while Chiswick is a much sought-after property market, it’s secondary schools greatly increase its appeal.

Prices in the area are, consequently, high. On average detached house prices go for £1.8 million, semis for £1.7 million and terraces for £1.1 million. Don’t expect to see much change out of £550,000 for a two-bedroom apartment.

T

I

t’s no wonder that many Londoners move out to the country when their children reach secondary school age.

The capital may be awash with decent state primary schools, but if you want a good education for your children in their later years then you’ve got a postcode battle on your hands. So it’s either pay for them to attend a private school or try and move into a catchment area of a decent secondary school.

Subterfuge is the third way.

Many agents report a brisk trade in rented accommodation as many parents try and secure an address within a catchment area. But many schools are getting wise to this and requiring multiple and much more robust proof of address. But if you’d prefer to take the legitimate route

01 A TWO BEDROOM COTTAGE BETWEEN MORTLAKE AND RICHMOND, £780,000. MARSH AND PARSONS, 020 8939 1770.

02 TWO BEDROOM FLAT WITHIN A NEW-BUILD DEVELOPMENT NEAR EAST FINCHLEY TUBE STATION. £1.35M. SAVILLS, 020 7472 5018.

03 FIVE BEDROOM HOUSE IN CHISWICK, £995,000 WITH FOXTONS, 020 8996 6000

HAMPSTEAD GARDEN SUBURB

£ 1 . 3 9 m i l li o n a ve r a ge ampstead Garden Suburb has five state secondary schools (if you include one free school in East Finchley) but the undisputed star is The Henrietta Barnett School, which was judged to be the second best selective secondary school in the country last year by The Sunday Times, and was recently picked out by a Tatler survey too.

If you want to join this merry throng of education excellence, then you’re going to need to pay for the privilege. Hampstead Garden Suburb demands £2.4 million on average for a detached house, £1.22 million for a semi or terrace and £780,000 for a flat. ◆

H

£995,000

RICHMOND SHOULD BE KNOWN AS A CENTRE FOR INDEPENDENT SECONDARY SCHOOL EXCELLENCE

75 CHIS_March16_Prop_PriceBands_SP_.indd 75

£ 78 8 ,0 0 0 a ve r a ge he borough has ten secondary schools with another in the pipeline. But in fact, Richmond should be known as a centre for independent secondary school excellence nationally with three in the top 100 (St Paul’s School, The Lady Eleanor Holles School and Hampton School).

The best state secondary schools are Grey Court School, Sir Richard Reynolds High Catholic and Waldegrave School, all of which have an Ofsted ‘outstanding’.

House prices in Richmond are noticeably more affordable than prime central London’s, but only just. Detached houses go for £1.2m on average followed by semis at £814,000 and terraces at £658,000.

Two bedroom flats go for £370,000.

MARCH 2016

17/02/2016 11:30

HAMPSTEAD HIGH STREET NW3 ONE OF TWO REMAINING FLATS FORMING PART OF AN EXCITING LUXURY SCHEME OF BRAND NEW APARTMENTS LOCATED IN THE HEART OF HAMPSTEAD VILLAGE, WITH A SECURE PARKING SPACE. LOCATED ON THE FIRST FLOOR AND PROVIDING 1,134 SQ FT / 105 SQ M OF ACCOMMODATION, THE FLAT IS ARRANGED AS 2 BEDROOMS, 1 BATHROOM, 1 SHOWER ROOM AND AN OPEN PLAN RECEPTION ROOM AND KITCHEN. IN ADDITION, THERE IS A LARGE PRIVATE DECKED TERRACE AND A SECURE GATED PARKING SPACE.

£1,795,000

ARLINGTON.indd 1 DPS.indd 1 W003 Absolutely North

NEW 150 YEAR LEASE

10/02/2016 10/02/2016 14:27 09:54

SWISS COTTAGE NW6 A THREE FLOOR TOWN HOUSE QUIETLY LOCATED IN A GATED CLOSE OF ONLY THREE HOUSES. THE PROPERTY PROVIDES 1,878 SQ FT / 174 SQ M OF ACCOMMODATION PRESENTED IN GOOD DECORATIVE CONDITION, AND FEATURES A YORK STONE PAVED WEST-FACING REAR GARDEN AND SECURE OFF STREET PARKING. ACCOMMODATION COMPRISES 3 / 4 BEDROOMS, 2 BATHROOMS, 1 SHOWER ROOM, BEDROOM 4 / FAMILY ROOM, IMPRESSIVE FIRST FLOOR RECEPTION / DINING ROOM, STUDY / PLAYROOM, KITCHEN, FRONT AND REAR GARDENS.

FREEHOLD

ARLINGTON.indd 2 DPS.indd 2 W003 Absolutely North

SOLE AGENTS

£1,875,000

10/02/2016 10/02/2016 14:27 09:55

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02/10/2015 14:43

Thinking of moving out of London? We’re bringing the best properties to you.

THE

Roadshow

SATURDAY 12TH MARCH | 11AM - 3PM Join us for a comprehensive insight into where to move outside the capital.

Regional experts offering one to one advice | A wealth of locations and properties to peruse Entertainment for the children | Refreshments Battersea & Wandsworth 98-100 Northcote Road, SW11 6QW | Blackheath 46 Tranquil Vale, Blackheath, SE3 0BD Chiswick 48 Turnham Green Terrace, W4 1QP | Earlsfield & Southfields 350 Garratt Lane, SW18 4ES Muswell Hill 256 Muswell Hill Broadway, N10 3SH For more details about the event or for a free market appraisal, please contact your local Hamptons branch or call 020 7265 6595

www.hamptons.co.uk Please dial in full. If you have already appointed another agent, you may be subject to a restrictive contract.

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28/01/2016 10:46

IN THEIR OWN

WORDS

GUY FISHER Senior Sales Consultant at Arlington Residential, St John’s Wood Photography

R E B ECCA N O O N A N

L

ast year wasn’t a bad one at all for Arlington Residential. We sold one of the most expensive houses in St John’s Wood and although the market quietened down towards the end of the year, early signs suggest that domestic buyers are making a fashionable comeback. I say this because, until very recently, the tempo of the Central London market has been driven by international buyers, mainly investors, hoping for a reasonable rental return and capital growth.

I am usually in the office by 8.30am after having dropped my daughter at work at one of London’s top hair salons. I look forward to what the day has in store. I have been an estate agent for more than 30 years and been working with Arlington Residential for just over 11 years.

I get the chance to sell some beautiful homes but I suppose the best part of working with Arlington Residential is that we are not bound by area. With such variety, I can be showing homes in and around Hampstead Garden Suburb and Highgate and later, meeting a buyer to show them

THE CENTRAL LONDON MARKET HAS BEEN DRIVEN

BY INTERNATIONAL BUYERS

apartments in Marylebone.

Our clients are loyal and appreciate the level of service we offer but our main area is St John’s Wood – an area I’ve worked in for over 25 years.

‘Geographically perfect’ as one of my clients described it. Thought to have been one of London’s first suburbs with a kaleidoscope of different styles and types of properties – it’s just outside the congestion charge zone, has Regents Park on its doorstep and an amazing high street.

Our relationship with London’s top relocation and search agents is excellent for both sales and lettings and continues to grow.

In addition, our professional network of banking and wealth management contacts ensures access to both international and domestic purchasers. In most cases, because we have access to almost everything available on

the market, our office is their first port of call, and in some cases the only port of call when it comes to locating properties for their clients.

As we deal with high calibre properties, our clients are always referring to the ‘pound per square foot’ rule but actually, whilst only a guide, it’s not a true and accurate way to value a home. I love debating this as there are so many other factors to take into account. The rule hasn’t yet been applied to lettings so our busy lettings department tell me. But we’ll see.

For fun and relaxation, I love playing poker – I play in a monthly league with a few friends, many of whom are estate agents. I exercise regularly and at home, quality time is spent with my wife, son and dog... in that order.

This afternoon, I am about to meet one of three potential buyers at 30 Woronzow Road, where the photograph was taken – a remodelled and renovated period house on the east side of St Johns Wood. Here, the owner’s have excavated, creating an amazing open plan basement area approached by an architectdesigned suspended staircase. ◆

ARLINGTON RESIDENTIAL / 020 7722 3322 / arlingtonresidential.com

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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PROPERTY / PROFILE

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MARCH 2016

17/02/2016 11:35

Hillfield Park, Muswell Hill, N10

£1,795,000 Freehold. Sole Agents

Barnard Hill, Muswell Hill, N10

£1,235,000 Freehold. Sole Agents

Providing exceptionally spacious and bright accommodation over four floors is this well presented five double bedroom mid terraced Edwardian residence. The property retains an abundance of original period features throughout, also boasting a 33’2 x 11’10 kitchen/diner opening onto a fantastic day room and there is also paid parking available at the rear, and on the lower ground level there is a self-contained studio room that could be used as a study, playroom or further guest room; added benefits also include spectacular far reaching views including the City and the Shard building. Located in the heart of Muswell Hill Broadway with its large selection of amenities and excellent bus services to Highgate Tube (Northern Line), Within the catchment of Muswell Hill primary and Fortismere secondary Schools.

Contact our Muswell Hill Office on 020 8444 1771

Retaining a wealth of charm and character is a beautifully presented five double bedroom three storey mid terraced Victorian residence. This fine home boasts high ceilings, bright and well-proportioned accommodation throughout; added benefits also include a through reception room and a fantastic kitchen/dining room leading out to a 61’ rear garden. The property is situated within a short distance of Muswell Hill Broadway and its large selection of shops, restaurants and excellent bus services to Highgate tube (Northern Line). Within favourable distance of Fortismere and Alexandra Park secondary schools.

Contact our Muswell Hill Office on 020 8444 1771

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

15/02/2016 11:41

www.tatlers.co.uk

Howard Walk, Hampstead Garden Suburb, N2 £1,050,000 Freehold. Sole Agents An immaculate three double bedroom semi-detached art deco family home located in a quiet crescent. Having been completely refurbished and offered in a ‘ready to move into’ condition the property benefits from a through lounge, luxury fitted kitchen and bathroom suite, a larger than average size garden and garage via shared driveway; there is also a large loft suitable for conversion (subject to relevant consents). Howard Walk is located within the Suburb being within close proximity of Hampstead Heath and within quarter of a mile to the shops on East Finchley High Road and the tube station (Northern Line).

Contact our East Finchley Office on 020 8883 1001

Carysfort Road, Crouch End, N8

£1,350,000 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 and sympathetically refurbished throughout by the current owners. Arranged over three floors there are four double bedrooms, spacious family bathroom including a separate shower 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.

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020 8348 5515 crouchend@castles.london

www.castles.london

Campsbourne Road, N8

ÂŁ699,999 FH plus LH

Well-proportioned, immaculately presented, 3-bedroom duplex, newly refurbished conversion occupying the upper floors of a handsome period residence. Offers space & light in abundance with sleek neutral internal detailing throughout complemented with a host of period features incl. wooden flooring, fireplaces, high ceilings, & sash windows. Further comprising: living area, consisting of eat-in-kitchen, spacious reception room, modern family bathroom, utility room & ample storage.

Woodland Rise, N10

ÂŁ2,000,000 Freehold

Five-bedroom family home measuring approx: 3,500 sqft/320 sqm with own front off-street parking within a moment's walk of Highgate Woods underground. Built approximately 10 years ago & benefiting from a host of contemporary features whilst maintaining proportions of a period house. Arranged over 4 floors & comprising spacious lounge/kitchen/ diner on the ground floor with shower room, sauna and gym, L-shaped through reception on raised ground floor leading to private rear garden.

12 Topsfield Parade, London N8 8PR CASTLES NXNW.indd 1

08/02/2016 16:21

LANDMARK POSITION…

LONG STANDING NAME YOU CAN RELY ON.

12 Topsfield Parade Crouch End London N8 8PR 020 8348 5515 www.castles.london

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RENTING OR SELLING A PROPERTY?

WE HAVE THE TOOLS TO ADAPT TO YOUR EVERY NEED

SALES | LETTINGS | MANAGEMENT 020 7339 3073 W W W. O N E P R O P E R T Y C O N S U LTA N T S . C O M

OPC .indd 2

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Belsize Lane, Belsize Park NW3 A wonderful, three bedroom garden flat This excellent property is one of the best examples of a duplex apartment in Belsize Park. The current owners have refurbished the property to an extremely high standard, adding a modern, contemporary feel. The accommodation across the lower and raised ground levels is extremely generous and benefits from high ceilings and natural light throughout. Master bedroom with en suite shower room, 2 further bedrooms, family bathroom, kitchen/dining room, reception room, utility room, courtyard, garden. EPC: D. Approximately 160.37 sq m (1,724 sq ft).

Share of freehold

Guide price: £2,875,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/BSZ160006

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Absolutely February 2016 advert

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

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

15/02/2016 10:44

11/02/2016 16:30:40

IT’S ALL ABOUT THE PLACE The steps beside the Regent’s Canal with Granary Square and the University of the Arts beyond.

LIVE IN AMAZING KING’S CROSS You have restaurants, cafés, parks and fountains; you have shops, squares and the joys of a canal; you have the best national and international rail connections in London and an extraordinary choice of some of the Capital’s most extraordinary homes.

Move in now and experience living at King’s Cross.

You have 6 tube lines, 3 mainline stations and a Eurostar. Live just 5 minutes from Oxford Circus and Covent Garden and a mere 8 minutes from Victoria and Piccadilly Circus.

KX_RES_NXNW.indd 1

Please contact us at: enquiries@livingatkingscross.co.uk or call +44 (0)20 7205 4268 kingscross.co.uk/homes

www.kingscross.co.uk

10/02/2016 10:53

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

HELP WITH THE LEGAL ISSUES WHEN YOU BUY OR SELL YOUR HOUSE

Andrew

Partner Residential Property

“ highly recommend Andrew lint. e is e tremely courteous efficient and thorough.”

“A very efficient service. Colman Coyle did particularly well dealing with difficulties arising at the last minute.”

PROPERTY LAW SERVICE

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

pper treet slington ondon 020 7354 3000 property@colmancoyle.com

www.colmancoyle.com

orward thin ing straight tal ing COLEMAN COYLE_C&A_JAN.indd 2

1984 - 2014

anniversary

Celebrating 30 YEARS in business | 1984 - 2014

10/02/2014 10:24

Get an Instant Valuation in 60 seconds www.portico.com/valuation

S AL ES

MAIN T ENANCE

L E T T INGS

portico.com

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22/01/2016 17:19

HANDYSIDE STREE T, KING'S CROSS, N1C ÂŁ800,000

KE Y FE AT URES 10th Floor Studio Apartment Residents Roof Garden Interior Designed by Johnson Naylor Development Overlooking Gasholder Park Moments from Kings Cross St. Pancras Station 505 Square Feet

PORTICO NXNW.indd 1

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

portico.com

UPPER BELGRAVE STREE T, BELGRAVIA, SW1X ÂŁ3,500 PW

KE Y FE AT URES Newly refurbished Designer Appliances Throughout Garage Space Underfloor Heating & Air Conditioning Courtyard Fantastic Location

PORTICO NXNW.indd 2

11/02/2016 17:38

PROPERTY / NEW TO THE MARKET

DREAM Developments

THE MAPLE BUILDING NW5

£525,000 Starting P rice

eading London developer The Linton Group is undertaking with Savills the launch of The Maple Building, a collection of 57 one, two and three bedroom apartments and penthouses, within the former Kentish Town Maple & Co. maple furniture factory. The 19th century six-storey red brick building has undergone an extensive refurbishment and restoration programme, with bright and spacious apartments ranging in size from approximately 450 sq ft to 2,000 sq ft.

Dating back to the 1890s, The Maple Building was first developed as a Maple & Co. maple furniture factory, once one of the world’s leading antique furniture makers. The factory produced furniture sold in the main Maple & Co. outlet located on Tottenham Court Road, as well as providing bespoke furnishings by Royal Appointment to the British Royal Family.

Retaining its industrial façade, The Maple Building provides an elegant mixture of modern furnishings and fittings, with period features, including large Crittal windows and exceptional ceiling heights. u  The Linton Group 020 3402 5101; thelintongroup.co.uk

L

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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CAMDEN COURTYARDS NW1

£610,000 Starting P rice

amden Courtyards is a Barratt London development of 164 new homes consisting of one, two and three bedroom apartments in popular Camden Town. In the centre of the development lie two tranquil courtyards enclosed around the ingenious S-shape building.

Residents will also enjoy a communal roof terrace and a 12 hour concierge service. Barratt London expect a high level of interest in the scheme following demand to attend the launch event.

C

This development designed

by Camden-based architect Sheppard Robson, will be car-free and include 296 cycle spaces for residents. The development has been inspired by the Victorian and Georgian architecture of the area, with nods to its industrial heritage with elongated windows, high ceilings and weathered steel.

The apartment layouts have

been designed for maximum comfort with the living areas at the front of the property providing warm, natural light and the bedrooms situated near the rear away from the road. Camden Courtyards is a two-minute walk to Camden Road overground station. u  Barratt London 015 3027 8278; barrattdevelopments.co.uk

94 17/02/2016 11:38

Albert Street

ÂŁ949,950 leasehold

A wonderful apartment on the top 2 floors of this period conversion, situated in one of Camden’s most sought after streets. The spacious accomodation comprises a reception room, eat in kitchen, 2 bedrooms & a modern bathroom.

Camden

Camden NW1 EPC rating D

020 7267 2053

sales.camden@chestertons.com

chestertons.com

CHEST_NXNW.indd 1

08/02/2016 16:22

PROPERTY / COUNTRYSIDE

FAMOUS PLACES London hides a plethora of celebrity homes. These are the most recent to come on the market.

Words N I G E L L E W I S

HAND IN GLOVE APARTMENT

f you’re old enough to remember the times when Miss Piggy, Kermit the Frog and a host of other Muppets dominated Saturday night TV, then you may agree that this apartment is the perfect place for a bit of puppetry.

American Jim Henson, who created The Muppet Show during the 1970s, moved to London and, after a false start in Hampstead, set up a shop in a Victorian industrial warehouse in Camden.

After Henson’s death in 1990, the company remained in this building, run by his son Brian, who created more hits starring the cute (and gruesome) creations for movies such as the 1995 farmyard tale Babe and the first Harry Potter film: Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone.

But the Muppets makers and the Henson family eventually left, and the former warehouse in Camden’s Oval Road was turned into a luxury apartment. Now, a duplex penthouse with four bedrooms within it, is on the market for £6.5m. u

I

SUGAR WASN’T SOLD ON THESE

he sales abilities of some of the apprentices on the eponymous BBC TV show didn’t impress the show’s fired-up chairman, Lord Sugar, in a recent episode.

He had challenged the teams to sell mid-range and high-end properties, but despite being on the winning team, Scott Saunders quit the show after his estate agent act was ridiculed in the boardroom.

Some of those apartments in the Printworks development near the Oval are still available. The Edwardian building, built in 1903, was the former print works and headquarters of the Freemans catalogue company. The converted warehouse is set around landscaped

T

gardens in Clapham Road, in a conservation area surrounded by tree-lined Georgian terraces and Regency villas.

There are still 28 apartments up for grabs, with prices starting at £338,000 for a studio apartment.

New owners can move in April. u

Sotheby's International Realty 020 7495 9580; sothebysrealty.co.uk

Red Property Partnership

020 7485 1332; redpropertypartnership.co.uk

THIS APARTMENT IS THE PERFECT PLACE FOR A BIT OF PUPPETRY

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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PROPERTY / STAR HOMES VERA LYNN - WHO IS STILL GOING STRONG AT 98 - WAS THE ORIGINAL FORCES SWEETHEART

(£580,500) and its selling point is Child’s kitchen which, aside from a new stove, is nearly exactly how it was when she used to cook up a storm.

The four bedroom, four bathroom cottage has rustic interiors along with a separate studio building containing another living room, bedroom, kitchenette and bathroom. u

Encore Sotheby's International Realty

0033 04 92 92 12 88; encoresothebysrealty.com

IT’S A BIT OF A COMMUTE, SWEETHEART ong before Katherine Jenkins was boosting troops’ morale with her mezzo soprano tunes, Vera Lynn – who is still going strong at 98 – was the original forces sweetheart.

Soldiers during World War II were cheered by her songs and frontline visits, and one of her hits, We’ll Meet Again, is the most iconic song from the conflict.

Born in London, she lived in Hassocks, West Sussex, after the war. Her former home - Clayton Holt, an Edwardian Country House built in 1907 - is in the South Downs National Park, and is currently for sale at £1.15m.

With seven large bedrooms set over four floors, the accommodation benefits from a large secluded garden leading into three acres of private woodland. The property comprises a majestic oak carved staircase in the hall, intricate moulded ceilings and great views of the land from all of the rooms in the house. u

L

Tepilo

01702 870878; tepilo.com

FAMOUS FOODIE’S FRENCH KITCHEN

The United States may still be the spiritual home of fast food, but Americans have Francophile Julia Child to thank for introducing them to slightly finer dining. The celebrated TV chef and author fell in love with French cuisine back in the 40s and set out to adapt it for her fellow Americans. Child inspired the 2009 film Julie & Julia starring Meryl Streep. The chef lived in France from 1948 to 1956, and then built a small holiday retreat there in 1963, near Plascassier, half an hour’s drive from Cannes.

The property is now for sale for the first time, priced at €800,000

T

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MARCH 2016

17/02/2016 11:39

Hampstead

ÂŁ950 pw Unfurnished

3 Bedrooms | Reception | 2 Bathrooms | Apartment Parking | Private Lift | EPC - C | Sole Agents Hampstead 020 3503 0908 hamp@brlets.co.uk Fourteen offices open six days a week Monday - Saturday Canary Wharf | City | Colindale | Ealing | Fulham | Greenwich | Hammersmith | Hampstead | Highgate | Hyde Park | Kensington | Knightsbridge | Surrey Quays | Wapping Additional charges apply: Tenancy Agreement, Credit Check & Inventory Report. For details visit www.brlets.co.uk/tenantinfo

NEW_BR_NXNW.indd 2

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London’s Letting Agency

To arrange a viewing or for more information call

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

020 7319 9783

Highgate Borders

£315 pw Furnished

Colindale

£420 pw Furnished

1 Bedroom | Reception | 1 Bathroom | Apartment Communal Garden | Parking | EPC - B | Sole Agents Highgate 020 3302 2601 high@brlets.co.uk

2 Bedrooms | Reception | 2 Bathrooms | Apartment Gym | Lifts | Garden | EPC - C | Sole Agents Colindale 020 3503 0017 bp@brlets.co.uk

Hampstead

Highgate Borders

£840 pw Unfurnished

3 Bedrooms | Reception | 3 Bathrooms | Apartment Terrace | Amenities & Tube Nearby | EPC - E | Sole Agents Hampstead 020 3503 0908 hamp@brlets.co.uk

£2,250 pw Unfurnished

6 Bedrooms | 3 Receptions | 5 Bathrooms | House Garden | Nearby Amenities | EPC - E | Sole Agents Highgate 020 3302 2601 high@brlets.co.uk

Hong Kong | India | Malaysia | Singapore

NEW_BR_NXNW.indd 3

11/02/2016 17:46

Available Now A SLICE OF KENTISH TOWN

A collection of warehouse apartments in a transformed furniture factory One, two and three bedroom apartments Prices starting from ÂŁ525,000* Scheme completing in Summer 2016

W W W.T H E M A P L E B U I L D I N G .C O M R EG I S T E R YO U R I N T E R E S T N O W +44 (0) 20 3 8 111 30 4 N E W H O M E S @ S AV I L L S.C O M * p r i c e c o r re c t a t t i m e of p r i nt

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10/02/2016 15:23