NORTH BY NORTHWEST NOVEMBER 2014 by ABSOLUTELY Magazines

ABSOLUTELY NORTH BY NORTHWEST

NOVEMBER 2014 / £3.95

SHERIDAN SMITH ON BECOMING CILLA

WALL STREET

FRESH PRINTS FROM FARROW & BALL

BORN SLIPPY SURF LIVING ON THE IRISH COAST

WINTER SHADES

PLAY IT COOL IN THE SEASON’S KEY TRENDS

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Tim Moss Bespoke kitchens www.timmoss.co.uk

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Nove mbe r 2014

90 08 ABSOLUTELY LOVES Things we're coveting this month

12 14 18

ART & CULTURE

WHAT’S ON

Diary dates for November

WHO’S THAT GIRL?

Sheridan Smith plays Sixties icon Cilla Black

IN HINDSIGHT

Sam Wilmott: the master War Horse puppeteer

ST YLE

22 FASHION CONFIDENTIAL School up on the newest trends

24 SEEING RED

Go bold or go home: red is the new black

22 SIXTIES STYLE

Hot mod looks, updated

33 SCARF FACE

Faux fur love contines with Charlotte Simone's bold, bright creations

HEALTH & BEAUTY

45 MAKE-UP INSIDER Arabella Preston does Dolce & Gabbana

46 HEALTH NOTES

Diet tips from PT Sarah O' Neill

FOOD & DRINK

52 EASY AS PIE

Hot TV chef and pieman Andy Bates

65 FOOD REVIEW

Richard Mellor hotfoots it to Boho Mexica

INTERIORS

80 WALL STORY

What makes effective wallpaper design with Farrow and Ball

C o v e r s C & A : M i n t V e lv e t / E a s t : C o a c h

87 CHALET CHIC

Warming, alpine-inspired interiors

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52 TRAVEL 90 GOOD MORNING,VIETNAM Discovering the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hoi An

92 BORN SLIPPY

Cool coastal living with a contemporary twist

PROPERT Y 99 LOCAL AREA

News and views on buying and letting

NOVEMBER 2014

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ABSOLUTELY EDITOR Helen Baron EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Elizabeth Hutton EDITORIAL INTERN Louise Godwin ADVERTISING ACCOUNT MANAGER Kristian Brumby PROPERTY DIRECTOR Andy Elmer PROPERTY MANAGER Emily Saunderson NORTH PROPERTY EDITOR Lucie Pearce ART DIRECTOR Ray Searle SENIOR DESIGNER Phil Couzens PRODUCTION MANAGER Stewart Hyde MIDWEIGHT DESIGNER Gemma Isteed DESIGNER Ekrem Yilmaz JUNIOR DESIGNER Rebecca Noonan DESIGN INTERN Shannon Nash PRODUCTION CONTROLLER Christine Mann FINANCE DIRECTOR Alexandra Hvid MARKETING MANAGER Leah Day PA TO THE DIRECTORS Marianne McFadden DIRECTORS Greg Hughes, Alexandra Hunter MANAGING DIRECTOR Sherif Shaltout

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Foll ow Us O n T wit ter @ABSOLUTELY_MAGS Fa c ebo ok ‘ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES’

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EDITOR’S

letter

ovember is the month when last season's clothes finally become unwearable and last year’s winter wardrobe seems, if not entirely old hat, then at least in need of an update (or ten). It’s the result of two months spent staring wonderingly at the beautiful things issuing forth from fashion houses great and small, as the world’s creators kick back into gear and vie to attract our pre-Christmas attention. Eek: I said the C-word. And yet it’s undeniable that the festive season is already having an impact: all those parties to attend, all those events to dress up for… surely we can be excused for splashing the cash a little? Party season may trouble the pocket, but who can pretend that it isn’t fun to put aside comfy casuals and whip out the little black dresses and luxury knits? To that end, we’ve started preparing ourselves (and our purse-strings) well in advance, with content that will ensure you’re ready to put your best foot forward as the winter’s antics rumble into action. We’ve got an exclusive overview of party season’s most desirable scents from Spitalfields specialist The Bloom Perfumery, all the latest news from the worlds of fashion and beauty, and a competition that might help make 2015 your best-coiffed year yet: your chance to win twelve months of free hair styling from leading Hampstead salon Trevor Sorbie. Add to that a fascinating interview with local girl Sheridan Smith, fresh from a lead role in the show everyone’s talking about, ITV’s Cilla, and tantalising recipes from Yotam Ottolenghi’s latest best-seller, Plenty More, and you’ve all you need to dress, dine and discourse like a pro in the month ahead.  Have a great November.

Helen Baron Editor

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NOVEMBER 2014

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Golden Girl

Womenswear brand Biba introduces its sumptuous new Autumn Winter collection to House of Fraser stores. We particularly love this golden baroque-style midi dress. houseoff raser.co.uk

10 Things We

ABSOLUTELY

RING ME

With a sculptural, geometric approach, Koppmann’s jewellery is modern in design but traditional in technique – each beautiful piece is handmade in his OXO Tower showroom. POA; josefkoppmann.com

SO SURREAL

Inspired by the surrealist artists of the 1920s, those at Christian Lacroix have collaborated with Vista Alegre to create a superbly strange range of porcelain gifts. christian-lacroix.com

DON’TT BE SHEEPISH Get fuzzy with Fendi this AW. Their iconic 2Jours tote is now as playful as it is sophisticated, with bright geometic blocks of shearling. £2,480; matchesfashion.com

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ABSOLUTELY / LOVES GOLDFINGER

Georgia May Jagger is back as the face of Thomas Sabo this AW with their new Glam and Soul collection. Inspired by autumnal foliage, we're lusting after the romantically winding Fairy Twines rose gold ring. thomassabo.com

BOLD BALMAIN

Addictive and heady, this Balmain fragrance is a brilliantly golden version of the original eau de parfum. £79 for 90ml; selfridges.com

AERODYNAMIC

Designed by the aeronauticinspired Aviator brothers, this sofa is made to celebrate the iconic British Spitfire. POA; amodernworld.co.uk

RIPPLES AHEAD

Beautiful in both scent and design, Fornasetti’s latest offering, Malachite, is hypnotically dark and smoky. With top notes of pine needle and base notes of amber and sandalwood, this is a perfectly moody evening candle. From £295; selfridges.com

BEST KEPT SECRET

LOUNGE ABOUT

Inspired by the dog collar, the Médor Rose Gold watch is ingeniously designed to conceal the clock face. Does it put style slightly before practicality? We don't care. It’s super chic. POA; hermes.com

On the rare occasion we have time to lounge, this is the kind of chair we dream of doing it in. Aiken Lounge Chair, £1,314; absoluteabode.com

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HINDSIGHT: THE MAN BEHIND THE WAR HORSE

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> WHAT'S ON

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SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL

1 0 & 1 1 No ve m b e r Pe ntland T h e atre o mark William Shakespeare's 450th birthday, 35,000 young people will T perform his plays in 130 theatres across the UK. Engaging for children and entertaining for adults, this year, eight local schools will be getting involved. ◆ 5 Nether Street, Tally Ho Corner, N12;

©CIARA PHILLIPS, THINGS SHARED 2014

artsdepot.co.uk

EDWARD SCISSORHANDS

Un t i l 1 1 Ja n u a ry S adle r 's We ll s evised, directed and choreographed by Matthew Bourne (creator of the iconic D ballet Swan Lake and five-time winner of the Olivier Award) this performance of the bittersweet love story of Edward Scissorhands is both beautiful and haunting. ◆ Rosebery Avenue, EC1; sadlerswells.com

TURNER PRIZE 2014 Th rough out November Tate Br itain

The Turner Prize hits the big three-zero this year. Widely recognised as one of the most influential and prestigious awards for the visual arts in Europe, past prize winners include Martin Creed and Damien Hirst. 2014's winner will be announced on 1 December, so make the most of being a Londoner - go and choose your own favourite from the shortlisted artists: Duncan Campbell, Ciara Phillips (above), James Richards and Tris Vonna-Michell. Millbank, SW1;tate.org.uk

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FIREWORKS DISPLAY

8 No ve m b e r Ale x andra Palac e ireworks will fly at Alexandra Palace this year, with a panoramic view of F London as the backdrop. With street food and local craft beer, adults can eat and drink heartily while funfair rides and face painting are there to enjoy throughout the day. ◆ Alexandra Palace Way, N22; alexandrapalace.com

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ARTS & CULTURE / WHAT’S ON CONFLICT, TIME, PHOTOGRAPHY

Fro m No v em b er 26 Tate Mo de rn imed specifically to coincide with the T centenary of the First World War, this exhibition concerns the relationship between photography and sites of conflict over time. It will include various perspectives of particular sites over a period of time with works ranging from those made mere moments or days after an event, to those made one year (or years) later. ◆ Bankside, SE1; tate.org.uk

BOOK PICKS Nove m b e r’s Top T h re e Fo o d ie B ook s

RAPPER’S DELIGHT Jo esph I nnis s

Dokument P ress, £9.8 3

Get low with this hop-hop cookbook and make some seriously punny dishes. While our favourite is the Ludacripy Duck with Ho-Sin sauce, we wouldn't say no to some Notorious P.I.G feat. 2Pak Choi.

RADICAL NUDES

Until 18 Januar y T he Courtau l d gon Schiele (1890-1928) was one of the most E important artists of the early 20th century and a central figure of Austrian Expressionism. This exhibition brings together an outstanding group of the artist's nudes to chart his ground-breaking approach during his short but urgent career. Showcasing Schiele's technical virtuosity and highly original vision, this is a once in a lifetime opportunity to see the work of a genius. ◆ Somerset House, Strand, WC2; courtauld.ac.uk

◆

GOOD FOOD FOR YOUR TABLE Melro se & Mo rgan

Salt Yard Book Co, £25

This book, from grocers Melrose and Morgan, reveals some of their signature recipes, tips and tricks to ensure you're clued up to all things food-related.

must see

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WILDFIRE

Un ti l 8 Ja n u a r y D o rf m an T h e at re olicewoman Gail Wilde is full of fire; a particular P quality that lands her in hot water following a serious incident involving a fellow officer. As conspiracy theories and rumours regarding her professional conduct spiral out of control, accusations come from those at work and at home. We watch as Wilde's life disintegrates before our eyes. ◆ South Bank, SE1; nationaltheatre.org.uk

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must read

MEXICO

Ma rga r i ta Carril l o Arro nte Phiadon, £29.95

We love to travel. We love to eat. With Mexico: The Cookbook we (kind of) get to do both. Taste the fresh, vibrant and authentic flavours of Mexico with Arronte's tamales, fajitas and moles.

NOVEMBER 2014

15/10/2014 12:23

CELEBRITY INTERVIEW

When Sheridan Met

CILLA BAFTA favourite and Crouch End resident Sheridan Smith on stepping into the shoes of a national treasure Wo r d s A p r i l c l a r e w e l s h

aving spent more than seven months studying the early singing career of Cilla Black for new ITV biopic Cilla, in which she stars, Sheridan Smith’s physical metamorphosis into the flame-haired Liverpudlian songstress is uncanny. She dyed her hair red, donned a set of false gnashers and got to work nailing Cilla Black’s instantly recognisable (but almost inimitable) Scouse accent. ‘When you’re playing someone, you kind of become obsessed with them; watching them every day, reading their autobiography,’ says Smith. ‘My fake Cilla teeth really change the shape of my mouth so they helped with the accent, and I also had few singing lessons with them in, leading up to it.’ Smith also learned the minutiae of Cilla’s mannerisms – something that is essential when portraying a real person.

‘I picked up little things along the way, although when we started filming I began doubting everything,’ she says. ‘But you can get trapped with every single decision you make when you’re doing a scene and you don’t want to be overthinking all the time, so hopefully the end result is enough as a nod to Cilla.’ Born in Epworth, Lincolnshire, in 1981, the daughter of country and western duo The Daltons (aka Colin and Marilyn, whom she used to join on stage at local gigs), Sheridan is best known for her eight-year stint as the down-to-earth Janet in Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps. She played Ralph Little’s plait-adorned girlfriend Emma in The Royle Family, showed up briefly in Gavin & Stacey as Smithy’s sister Rudy (acting alongside her real-life boyfriend at the time, James Corden) and went on to portray Ronnie Biggs’s ex-wife Charmian in ITV1’s five-part series Biggs, for which she earned herself a BAFTA.

When you’re

PLAYING SOMEONE, you kind of BECOME OBSESSED with them

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ABSOLUTELY / PROFILE

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ABSOLUTELY / PROFILE Running parallel to Smith’s small screen successes have been her theatre triumphs, most notably her embodiment of the effervescent Elle Woods in the musical version of Legally Blonde, for which she won the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Actress in a Musical. She was hailed for her lead performance in Hedda Gabler – scooping her second Olivier – and has had Hollywood knocking at her door; after Dustin Hoffman caught her performing in the West End, he cast her in his film Quartet, where she worked alongside Dame Maggie Smith and Billy Connolly. Smith left home at 16 and lived in South London before settling on Crouch End some seventeen years ago, a place she has likened to her hometown of Epworth on account of it being ‘very villagey’. She’s a big fan of fashion boutique Powder and ‘gets all her cakes’ at Dunn’s bakery. Her flat, which she owns, comes complete with huge garden and is shared with her three beloved dogs – Trish, Enid Blyton and Barry Manilow. The 33 year-old actress is tirelessly dedicated to her trio of pooches, much like her Legally Blonde character Elle Woods. For her role in Cilla, which tells the story of Priscilla White’s rise to fame from singing with The Beatles in the Cavern Club to becoming a star of the small screen, Smith had to leave her London home and take up residence in Liverpool for three months. She says that recreating the iconic Merseybeat era gave her ‘the biggest buzz’, though she was careful not to reduce her take on Cilla to an impersonation. ‘Of course, there’s only one Cilla and I didn’t want to do her a disservice,’ she says. ‘I’m not an impersonator so I just wanted to try and get little mannerisms like how she touches her hair and how she sings. I know I don’t have Cilla’s voice but I hopefully got some bits of her.’ She continues, ‘When she was singing in the Cavern club – Cilla told me this herself actually – because it was so loud and there were no sound monitors on stage, you just had to whack out those rock ‘n’ roll songs. But when she got in the studio and put the headphones on, she realised that she had this little soft voice as well so that’s when she started doing the ballads. So it was fun to play around with the soft voice and the Cilla “honk”; that big, belting sound that comes out of her little frame.’ Playing such a legendary star must have been overwhelming, even for a critically acclaimed actress like Smith?

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‘When you’ve watched someone for that long, and grown up watching them, you’re totally in awe. So when I went to dinner with Cilla and her son Robert, I was so starstruck and nervous I started babbling away at her and she couldn’t quite catch up with what I was saying! When you meet them in person it’s a huge responsibility because you just don’t want to let them down.’ So did Cilla give her any tips? ‘She was lovely,’ Smith says. ‘She gave me her phone number and told me to ring her but I was too shy to ring and didn’t know what to ask. But hopefully I did her justice and will see her again. Maybe I’ll ring her now, now it’s all over.’ 

Smith’s great-great-grandfather, Benjamin Doubleday, was a wellknown Yorkshire banjo player

When I went to DINNER with CILLA I was so

STARSTRUCK

Smith has also appeared in British TV shows ranging from The Bill and Fat Friends to Jonathan Creek – and even played the sidekick of the Doctor himself in Doctor Who Smith was in a relationship with one-time co-star James Corden until 2009

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Bespoke Fitted Wardrobes and Dressing Rooms Sliding Doors, Hinged Doors and Walk-ins

Neatsmith

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Call us on 0800 1956 595 | www.neatsmith.co.uk NEATSMITHS.indd 1 N4_297x210.indd 1

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INTERVIEW

Hind Sight Sam Wilmott, puppeteer for the National Theatre’s production of War Horse, shares his point of view with Absolutely I n t e r v i e w C at h e r i n e H a l e s

ased on the 1982 children's novel by Michael Morpurgo, War Horse met with universal acclaim when it premiered in theatrical form in 2007. That production was at the National Theatre; it has since been a hit on the West End, Broadway and in cities as far apart as Toronto and Auckland. Steven Spielberg directed a movie version in 2011.

of my feet, and at the other end of them are bike brakes, essentially. My left one moves the tail left and right and my right one moves the tail up and down. Any combination of the two will make the tail do what I need it to and that will give off emotional indications not only to the other puppeteers but to the audience as well. CH: How do you manage to create empathy for the puppet on stage? SW: The breathing is really important. Even with people, if you see them breathing without saying anything you can quite often tell what’s going on. It’s exactly the same with the horse, people read that and then Nick (the head), whose emotional task is the ears, will do different combinations with the ears just to show how Joey is feeling.

CATHERINE HALES: So you’re one of the puppeteers operating Joey in War Horse? SAM WILMOTT: Yep, I'm Joey’s hind. CH: What does controlling Joey’s hind entail? SW: I control the gait of the horse (the back legs), and the tail; the person doing that has to know what the heart puppeteer (in our case, Andrew London who controls the front legs), is going to do before he does it. CH: How do you manage that? SW: We use the breath. Andrew is responsible for making the horse breathe and we can tell so much of the story just by the breath, that’s all you really need. He can take the most minute breath and I’ll know what he’s

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about to do. But that’s only because we’ve worked together for a year-and-a-half so we’re very in tune. CH: What do you do specifically? SW: There are three of us who operate Joey: I’ve got the hind, Andrew has the heart and Nicholas Hart has the head. We each have a technical task and an emotional task. My technical task is the legs and the gait. The emotional task for me is the tail. I have two poles, I imagine them as ski poles, attached to the bottom

CH: How did you become a puppeteer? SW: I fell into it really… I managed to get a job on The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, in 2012. They had a big puppet of Aslan, based on the same concept as the horse puppets. There was a woman on it called Jane Leaney, who had been one of the original head puppeteers in War Horse, and she was the head puppeteer for Aslan. Towards the end of our contracts, auditions were coming up for War Horse and she put my name forward as a recommendation, that’s pretty much how it happened!

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ARTS & CULTURE / Q&A

CH: Is it funny having to tell people that your job is to be the back end of a horse? SW: Always... the thing is, if you try and make it all serious, they’re going to take the mick; I mean, it is the back end of a horse! People always associate it with panto. CH: That must be a great conversation starter though – you ask people what they do and they say, ‘Oh, you know, I’m an accountant. What do you?’ and you get to say that you’re the back end of a horse. It makes everyone else sound so boring! SW: Funny you should say that, my missus is an accountant. CH: Oh, God. Terrible example. Sorry. Don’t tell her I said that! SW: [Laughs] Ok. CH: Anyway, how heavy is the puppet? SW: I think Joey’s about eight-and-a-half

It will be a COMPLETELY different horse DEPENDING on the COMBINATION of PEOPLE inside it stone. That’s shared between two of us (me and Andrew) and Nick carries the weight of the head. It’s exhausting to support it for two and a half hours. All the guys look like Quasimodo because they’ve got one arm bigger than the other from holding it up. CH: How much of your own personality do you get to put into the horse? SW: There are four teams, my team just does Joey; there’s a Topthorn team who just do Topthorn and then there’re two teams who do both. We all rotate it so we have four shows a week and each team

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has a different personality for Joey and Topthorn. It’s really interesting to watch. And then when you have people on holiday, one person will change in that team and then the whole personality will change again. It will be a completely different horse depending on the combination of people inside it, which makes every show unique. CH: Do you and the front end get on? SW: Me, Andrew and Nick get on really well, we were together for our last contract and decided to stay together for our second. I think that might have been the first time that’s happened, where a team wanted to stay together as they were. We get on like a house on fire and all complement each other very well. u War Horse is on now at The New London Theatre, WC2; nationaltheatre.org.uk

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> THE COLOUR RED TAKES STYLE BY STORM

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CHARLOTTE SIMONE'S FAUX FUR SCARVES

p. 33

SOFT FOCUS Autumn has reverted to a summer palette, especially if the new Negarin collection is anything to go by. Ice-cream shades and white dominate the campaign, contrasting sharply with deep blues and blacks. negarinlondon.com

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st y l e c e n t r a l

THE BIBA YEARS 1963~1975

This season’s top trends and our favourite autumnal essentials

Wo r d s h e l e n b a r o n

words helen baron

ounded as a boutique mail-order in 1963 by Polish F service designer Barbara Hulanicki and her husband Stephen FitzSimon, Biba quickly gained cult status, outgrowing several London premises before landing at 99–117 Kensington High Street in 1973 as ‘Big Biba’, ‘the most beautiful store in the world’. This new book marks 50 years of the iconic brand, charting its success from the first creations and through the four legendary London shops to the eventual flourishing of a lifestyle brand that revolutionised British retail and fashion culture. The book also features previously unpublished material, including early fashion illustrations by Hulanicki and fullcolour facsimiles of the six luxurious Biba catalogues, exploring all the while the ethos of a company which effectively became the first retailer to bring affordable fashion to the youth market. The Biba Years is a comprehensive insight into the Biba fashions of the time and those iconic pieces whose influence can still be felt on the fashion industry today. u

Sugar Coated Vivetta

Ready-to-wear Italian label Vivetta continues the pastel theme with delectable powder pinks and baby blues. Girlish shapes are coupled with fluffy textures, but given an assertive edge. We do love a fondant fancy. Prices vary; available at luisaviaroma.com

● T H E B I BA Y E A RS : 1 96 3 –1 9 75 £35, V&A Publishing, out now

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FASHION / NOTES

HIGH LIFE Toga Pulla

For cool-related reasons, these badass heels from contemporary shoe label Toga Pulla are at the top of the wishlist. They’ll be charged with the task of adding some serious wow factor, not to mention edge, to our working wardrobe. And our weekend one for that matter... £385; farfetch.com

TOP AutuMnal accessories

MIDNIGHT FLORALS Dolce & gabbana

Dolce & Gabbana’s dark floral prints are the most sophisticated examples of AW14’s fairytale mood. This Italian-made emerald matelassé dress is designed with ladylike elbow-length sleeves and a flattering A-line skirt. It’s fully lined in stretch-silk too, so it feels as elegant as you look. £1,575; net-a-porter.com

STYLE TIP

Structured shoes are enjoying a bit of a moment, as the quest for the new and edgy draws out ever more weird and wonderful designs. Use them to evoke your crazy old art teacher, mimic a Harajuku girl or simply add an interesting feature to an otherwise straightforward outfit. Whatever the purpose, you’ll look on point.

04 05

CLUTCH CONTROL victoria beckham

Victoria Beckham’s style credentials show no sign of slipping; her new ready-to-wear collection and faultless accessories are proof. The sleek bags and clutches are testament to her eye for style – the only trouble is choosing just one. £425; victoriabeckham.com

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1. AUSTIQUE, iPad Case, £40; austique.co.uk 2. VICTORIA BECKHAM, Leather Shoulder Bag, £495; net-a-porter.com 3. BRORA, Felt Trilby in Forest, £69; brora.co.uk 4. HOBBS, Rosie Cat Belt, Navy, £39; johnlewis.com 5. ASPINAL OF LONDON, Ladies Fur Cuffed Leather Gloves, £125; aspinaloflondon.com 6. SALVATORE FERRAGAMO, Silk Gancini Logo Scarf, £219; harrods.com 7. TD TOM DAVIES, 07453 Gold Leaf Sunglasses, £395; tdtomdavies.com

NOVEMBER 2014

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Red Silk Cropped Top, £560, and matching Long Fishtail Skirt, £1,250, Sophia Kah Leather Shoes, £139, Underground

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See

RED Lust, rage, passion, revolt: go bold or go home, as red takes the style world by stormâ&#x20AC;Ś Photography Helen McArdle Styling Charlie Moore

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Burgundy and Pink Printed Wool Top, £650, and matching Skirt, £595, Issa Leather Gloves, £295,Corlette London

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Mohair Coat, £1,600, Marni

Bow bikini top, £49, by Princesse Tam Tam; princessetamtam.co.uk Crochet pencil skirt, £399, by Sea Ny at my-wardrobe.com Cream coat, £175, by Pepe Jeans; pepejeans.com

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Tomato Red Top (with 3/4 Sleeves), £540, Marni Fishtail Scuba Skirt, £500, Pinghe

Photographer – Helen McArdle Stylist – Charlie Moore Model – Xin Jie at d1 models Hair and Make-up – Fabio at Frank Agency using Chanel Christmas 2014 and Chanel Body Excellence and Ojon STOCKISTS issalondon.com corlette.co.uk Karl Lagerfeld – 020 7439 8454 Marni – 020 7245 9520 bypinghe.com sophiakah.co.uk underground-england.co.uk fenwick.co.uk With thanks to The Coastguard pub and restaurant, St Margaret's Bay, Kent

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The Tile Box

40 Offord Road, Islington N1 1EB 020 7700 1444 www.thetilebox.co.uk

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T O O B R 4 INE C

W Tickets On Sale T OC Mon 27

Ticke

your fir ts £10 st five sa A Govin o Tastin mples g A 6-Bot tle Win Glass e Carrie r

LONDON’S BEST INDEPENDENT WINE SHOPS SAMPLING AND SELLING THEIR FIVE FAVOURITE WINES IN A CAR PARK NEAR YOU

15/10/2014 10:26

FASHION / WARDROBE TATTY DEVINE

WENDEE OU

Hall of Mirrors Earrings, £60; tattydevine.com

Austen Small Structured Bag in Olive Green, £485; wendeeou.com

TATTY DEVINE

Geometric Link Necklace, £95; tattydevine.com

DICKINS & JONES Lime Peat Coat, £180; houseoffraser.co.uk

COLENIMO

Wool Pattern Blanket Poncho, £485; couvertureandthegarbstore.com

DICKINS & JONES

Geo Print Skirt, £50; houseoffraser.co.uk

HOBBS M&S COLLECTION

Asymmetric Stripe Dress, £39.50; marksandspencer.com

EMMA COOK AW14

HOLLY FULTON FOR RADLEY

Pembroke Belt, £59; hobbs.co.uk

MCQ ALEXANDER MCQUEEN

Check Wool-blend Knitted Dress, £320; matchesfashion.com

PEDRO GARCIA

Black Over The Knee Boots, £436; pedrogarcia.com

SIXTIES STYLE

Updated ‘60s is a hot trend this season. Here’s our pick of hot mod looks

VALENTINO

Ruffle-trimmed Crepe Mini Dress, £1,300; net-a-porter.com

HOBBS

CALCOT

Shift Dress, £149; damselinadress.co.uk

Astrid Houndstooth Derby, £169; hobbs.co.uk

FLORIAN LONDON

Mini Vienna Cross Body Bag in Burnt Orange, £165; florianlondon.com

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NOVEMBER 2014

14/10/2014 12:36

www.sweetpeajewellery.com

Fine Jewellery â&#x20AC;˘ Primrose Hill The Sweet Pea boutique on Gloucester Avenue stocks both luxury and fashion designer brands including Polly Wales, Jo Hayes Ward, Brooke Gregson and the Sweet Pea range. A bespoke service is available. 10% off on your first purchase - Code SUMMER10 - in store or online. SWEET PEA BOUTIQUE 77 Gloucester Avenue Primrose Hill London NW1 8LD phone 0207 449 9292

SWEETPEA_Aug.indd 1

11/07/2014 09:48

FASHION / SPOTLIGHT Q&A

SCARF FACE Primrose Hill-based designer Charlotte Simone talks to Absolutely about founding a business on faux fur Interview HELEN BARON

ABSOLUTELY Tell us a bit about your brand and how you’ve built it over the years; what made you decide to develop such a niche product? CHARLOTTE SIMONE I really felt there was a gap in the market for a scarf that could be more than just an item of practicality – a statement of style. Charlotte Simone aims to create fluffy pieces of fun that women choose to invest in just as they do a shoe or a handbag. Launching in the midst of an economic crisis actually aided the birth of my brand, as I believe an accessory that could be seen to rejuvenate any old look was appealing to ladies of all ages. For the past two years I’ve been slogging away at my bedroom desk. It’s a real sense of

A n ACCESSORY that COULD be seen to REJUVENATE any LOOK achievement to know that I now have an office space, an employee and the ball is rolling. Hard work pays off, but it takes a lot of determination amid the long hours of isolation. HB Why is faux fur so fashionable now? CS I guess because its fun and ever so warm! The technical advances in faux fur have rapidly improved in the last few years, allowing for a great feel, sheen and look that parallels real fur to an excellent degree. HB You studied fashion in NYC; how did you find that experience and how influential has it been on your career? CS The pulse of New York pushes

33 Nov_C&A_Fash_Q&A.indd 33

you to go for it, the energy of people encourages you to go get it! In the midst of the Fashion District I created my first Charlotte Simone style: the fur-lined hood. To this day, it is my best-selling signature style. HB What’s been the most surprising thing you’ve learned along the way? CS I’ve been surprised by how encouraging everyone is! So many friends and ladies willing to support a new designer and stick a neck out for fresh ideas. London has certainly given me a shot and I’m so grateful. HB What are your future plans for the company? CS Charlotte Simone is all about fun colours, mixed mediums and daring shapes… We’re currently stocked in over 150 stores and I wish to double that in the next year. The plan is expansion, so please stay tuned! ◆ charlottesimome.com

NOVEMBER 2014

14/10/2014 12:41

Pearl f The North Absolutely goes behind the scenes at Primrose Hill’s bespoke jewellery studio, Sweet Pea Wo r d s G e o r g i e L a n e - G o d f r e y

iobhan O’Neill is preparing for Paris Fashion Week. Buzzing around her studio in Primrose Hill, the jewellery designer is under pressure – the Paris show is the most important date in the studio’s calendar, with buyers flying in from as far as Japan in order see her new collections. ‘I think they like the fact that it’s a quaint, British brand,’ explains O’Neill, as she lays out her pieces. ‘It’s delicate yet durable and feminine without being too girly. And most importantly, it’s very wearable.’ Hidden away from the public store, the five new SS15 collections due to be exhibited range from vibrant Latin colours to pale sugary pinks, bold blues to shimmering golds. ‘My inspiration can come from absolutely anywhere,’ reveals O’Neill. ‘It’s usually just something that happens. I was heartbroken when I heard about the Wedgwood factory closing, so I started looking at their colours and began to include them in my designs. That’s how my blue Wedgwood range was born.’ Like the Wedgwood collection, each of O’Neill’s ranges have a story behind

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

C&A_Nov_Sweet_Pea.indd 34

My INSPIRATION can COME from ABSOLUTELY

anywhere

them: the ‘Blancmange’ is a selection of pretty pearls, varying from candyfloss pink to silky cream, that was inspired by a friend’s quintessential British food stall in Oxford; the idea for the ‘Mexico’ range came from a pair of colourful pompom heels the designer recently bought. ‘Colour is where my strength lies,’ says O’Neill. ‘It’s something that I find easy to conceptualise. This week for example we had a new delivery of coffee and the colour of the labels gave me the idea for a really good winter collection.’ The process from initial conception to finished design can take months, yet all the work happens in O’Neill’s Primrose Hill studio. Whilst the façade of the serene shop displays the finished products, from sparkling rings to elegant earrings, behind the scenes is a less sedate affair. Descend the stairs and you’ll find a hive of activity, all centred around the goldsmiths bench where Sweet Pea’s jewellery is made. All Royal College trained, each of O’Neill’s goldsmiths sits hunched over an intricate design, meticulously setting stones into the most delicate of settings. Piled high behind them are the countless precious stones – from pink sapphires to yellow citrines – all colour-coded and ready to be set.

34 15/10/2014 09:24

FASHION / BEHIND THE SCENES

‘Most of our stones come from India,’ says O’Neill. ‘We’re very conscientious about ensuring they are ethically sourced, especially when it comes to our diamonds.’ Hidden away in the safe, these stones are high in demand at Sweet Pea thanks to the studio’s bespoke engagement ring service. ‘A lot of our customers are local, savvy media types,’ says O’Neill. ‘They could afford to go to Bond Street, but they’d rather have something a little bit different.’ Often they come with designs already in mind, but those with absolutely no idea are also in safe hands. ‘We can guide them,’ explains O’Neill, with a knowing smile. ‘A lot of the time it’s a process of elimination – they don’t know what they want, but they know what they don’t like.’ To clarify the situation, consultations revolve around a series of questions, covering everything from personal style to skin colouring. ‘It’s helpful if they tell us their profession too,’ explains O’Neill. ‘We once had a lady who was a surgeon who wanted a ring that was discreet enough to leave without worrying when she took it off for the operating theatre. Practicalities are often the deciding factor.’

To create one of these bespoke rings takes on average six weeks. There are of course exceptions, like the woman who came in looking for a wedding ring on the afternoon of her wedding, but O’Neill’s attention to detail requires time as well as effort. ‘We often let customers take away the ring to wear for a few weeks before the stones are set to ensure that they’re happy with the fit,’ she explains. ‘You’d be amazed at how much something as simple as the weather can affect it.’ This meticulousness is to be expected from a woman who started her career in pharmaceuticals. ‘If I get stressed, I like to put on my white coat,’ laughs O’Neill. ‘It makes me feel in control, like when I was back in the hospital.’ Since retraining as a jewellery designer, however, she’s worked for the some of the biggest names in the fashion industry, creating one-off

35 C&A_Nov_Sweet_Pea.indd 35

pieces for the likes of John Galliano and Alexander McQueen. Yet despite these starry credentials, it was in North London that O’Neill chose to set up home. Today a familiar face in the village, O’Neill and her shop have been in Primrose Hill for over 13 years. It’s no surprise then to find that the area has also been a source of inspiration. ‘I was having a picnic on the hill one afternoon, surrounded by daisies popping up among the grass. The next thing I knew, I’d created a gold and diamond daisy. That was how the ‘Pop Up Daisy’ line came into being. It’s a product of the area; a real Primrose Hill collection.’ 

● Sweet Pe a

77 Gloucester Avenue, NW1, 020 7449 9292; sweetpeajewellery.com

NOVEMBER 2014

14/10/2014 12:46

MERCANTILE.indd 1

14/10/2014 16:44

FASHION / MOODBOARD

MY STYLE FAVOURITE HOLIDAY DESTINATION

Stylist and Bunny Little’s Bakery co-founder Katy Taylor shares her inspirations

It’s hard to beat the Amalfi Coast and Capri but this year I'm going to Turks and Caicos for new year and staying at Parrot Cay, a proper ‘r&r’ holiday.

FAVOURITE PIECE OF ART I have a hanging star light installation in the bakery by the designer Fiona Leahy. I also have a huge neon pink installation on my lounge wall at home, which is fun at parties. I want everything by Chris Bracey, the neon man, who has a pop-up store in Selfridges at the moment – his stuff is incredible and so cool! I love clothes that don’t look like you’ve tried too hard and that have a rock ‘n’ roll edge Balmain is a favourite designer.

I am OBSESSED with NEON light installations

FAVOURITE FASHION DESIGNER MOST TREASURED POSSESSION My two kittens, without a doubt. They aren’t really kittens anymore and now look like mini snow leopards! They have such beautiful markings and I talk to them as if they were people.

STYLE ICON

Only one? Alexander Wang for off-duty chic, and Acne – I would kill for this season’s cropped black leather jacket with stars all over.

I like women who are individual. For performance fashion I love Lady Gaga; she makes me smile. I really enjoyed Grace Coddington’s autobiography as she has real talent and such style in every way.

37 C&A_Nov_Mystyle_use.indd 37

NOVEMBER 2014

15/10/2014 09:30

BLOOM.indd 1

08/10/2014 17:00

> AUTUMN SCENTS FROM BLOOM PERFUMERY

p. 44

MAKE-UP INSIDER: THE DOLCE & GABBANA LOOK

p. 45

HEAD START Fancy a year of free styling at one of Londonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top hairdressing salons? Trevor Sorbie in Hampstead is offering Absolutely readers the chance to win twelve months of expert coiffing. Turn to page 43 for details. 42 High Street, NW3; trevorsorbie.com

39 C&A_Nov_Beauty_Opener.indd 39

NOVEMBER 2014

14/10/2014 16:56

SA LO N R e v i e w

PIMPS & PIN-UPS Shoreditch

Wo r d s k r i s t i a n b r u m b y

his is a super stylish hair salon as befits its Spitalfields Market T location. A a sort of back-to-thefuture retro dressing room, with black varnished walls bedecked with bulb-lit mirrors and flashy neon signs, it more than lives up to its name. I’m almost expecting the kind of treatment Hollywood starlets get backstage before their close-ups. I’m even handed a beer. Yet despite its hip credentials, the salon is never pretentious, and though retro is clearly a ‘thing’ here, it’s not done in a kitsch or outdated way. The tattooed and beardy staff manage the precarious balance of looking the business while also being approachable and friendly. Often you can tell a salon by the products they carry, and as Pimps and Pin-ups use Kevin Murphy as well as their own line (cheekily named Dirty Deeds), you know you’re in professional hands. The salon founders have even crossed the pond to share their hairdressing talents and particular brand of NY-LON cool with our stylish Manhattan cousins. I could have asked for something cutting-edge (that’s what they’re used to here, after all), but merely requested that my overgrown, unruly mop of curls be transformed into something more presentable. It was – and then some, proving the stylists here are as adept at simple requests as they are at whipping up the more striking, multi-layered and manyhued styles you see atop many a savvy East Londoner. u

Clarins new lip colour, coconut oil and professional advice on barefaced beauty W o r d s r o m y va n d e n b r o e k e

On That Note tom ford New from Tom Ford, Velvet Orchid is the must-have winter scent for women. A revised version of the original Black Orchid fragrance, Velvet Orchid contains notes such as honey, rum and oriental flora. From £72; tomford.com

●PIMPS & PIN-UPS 14 Lamb Street, E1, 020 7426 2121; pimpsandpinups.com

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40 14/10/2014 13:47

HEALTH & BEAUTY / NOTES editor’s

PICK NAILED IT christian louboutin

Fashion icon Christian Louboutin's beauty debut is this suitably dramatic Rouge Louboutin nail colour. Christian Louboutin Beauté, Nail Colour, Rouge Louboutin, £36; christianlouboutin.com

RED HOT clarins

Been looking for the perfect red lipstick to complete your autumnal look? Clarins new Red Fuchsia lipstick from their Rouge Eclat collection is not only the perfect hue, its Nutri-Youth Complex keeps lips young and full. £19.50; clarins.com

COCO NUTS! jax coco

Yes, coconut oil is all the rage in kitchens but it can also be used as a beauty product. Jax Coco’s recently launched EVCCO Oil, when applied to hair and skin, acts as a natural moisturiser, with high levels of lauric acid to promote healing and cleansing. That’s why we’re totally nuts for it. £10 for a 400g jar; shop.jaxcoco.com

SKIN DEEP aurelia

This award-winning British skincare company (founded in 2013 by dermatology expert Claire Vero) is a scientifically proven natural line that works by helping to manage the level of inflammation within the skin, the main cause of ageing. What's more, the products smell divine. £42 for 120ml; spacenk.com

41 C&A_Nov_Beauty_Notes.indd 41

NUDE FOR FALL MAKE UP Wo r d s C h a r l o t t e C av e

ake-up for AW14 is fresh, clean and nude. want to channel the romantic and the M We feminine this season – and for that we need a good hydrated base. I would go for the Sisley Black Rose Oil Facemask and a really good moisturiser. Trust me, if you haven’t had one for a while, take the opportunity to get a professional facial as we head into winter. For those who know me, the “Less is More” philosophy (for make-up at least) is something I always champion. My ‘Style by Ten’ philosophy is about finding your ten perfect products and then use seasonal trends for minimal accents. Keep your base simple for glowing and effortless skin. Nude palettes dominated all the catwalks – from creams and peaches to dark gold and browns. Illuminators such as Benefit High Beam and muted blushers are the key tools of choice and provide the light and shade for the face. With a nude face you need to concentrate on the cheeks and the eyes. Mascara is king this season – my favourites are by MAC and Maybelline – coupled with the reliable Elizabeth Arden 8 Hour Cream – an old favourite that never goes out of fashion and can be used on both eyes and lips. For a touch of extra sass, use a perfect red lip or a block of colour – either from Chanel or Bourjois.  Charlotte Cave is a hair and make up-artist with over 20 years experience working with everyone from Lady Gaga to Chris Martin. Charlotte has created the key AW looks for UK Glamour magazine. charlottecave.com

NOVEMBER 2014

14/10/2014 13:47

TEN PILATES.indd 1

05/09/2014 16:26

ABSOLUTELY / PROMOTION

Mane Attraction

Win a year’s free hairdressing at Trevor Sorbie Hampstead

ith five thriving salons and a market-leading hair product range, Trevor Sorbie is celebrating three wonderful years in Hampstead. Under the management and co-ownership of Bree Davie, Trevor has brought together an extremely talented and friendly team who work seamlessly to create the ultimate salon experience for clients. “Every hairdressing salon has the same tools, but what separates one from another is the quality of work. When people come to work for us, no matter how long they’ve been a hairdresser or what kind of clientele they have, we meet them, interview them and if we like each other, we ask them to do what’s called a ‘trade test’. If they pass the trade test we train them for a month or six weeks. At the end of that training, we give them a final test. I have personally judged every one of these tests. It is this quality, alongside customer service that sets us apart.” Trevor Sorbie, MBE. Whether you are visiting one of their award-winning salons, or taking home one of their amazing products, each Trevor Sorbie salon is dedicated to providing hair care that is individually designed around you. As part of their celebrations, Trevor Sorbie is offering one lucky reader of Absolutely the chance to win a year’s free hairdressing. This fantastic prize will include six haircuts, four colour appointments, 12 blow-dries, six treatments and a Trevor Sorbie goodie bag! To stand a chance of winning, simply answer the following question:

 To enter, email your answer to

salon@trevorsorbie.com

 Alternatively send your answer on a postcard, including your name, address, telephone number and e-mail address if you have one, to: Trevor Sorbie Competition Unit 1, Old Station Approach, Leatherhead, Surrey, KT22 7TE.  The closing date for entries is 30th November 2014 and winners will be informed shortly after!

● Trevor Sorbie

42 High Street, Hampstead, NW3 1QE. Tel: 020 7 112 1712 trevorsorbie.com

Q: The Hampstead salon is the fourth of five prestigious Trevor Sorbie salons, but how long has it been open?

43 C&A_Nov_Trev_Comp_02.indd 43

TERMS AND CONDITIONS: Entries are limited to one per e-mail address. The closing date for entries is 30th November 2014. Entries after this date will not be valid. The competition prize applies to selected stylists and technicians only. Subject to appointment availability. Applies to appointments that are used within one year once the winner is notified. Appointments are not transferable and must be used solely by the winner. A year’s free hairdressing is classed as six haircuts, 12 blow-dries and four technical appointments at the Trevor Sorbie Hampstead salon.

NOVEMBER 2014

14/10/2014 16:53

HEALTH & BEAUTY / SPOTLIGHT

2 4

1 3

On a Personal Note The Bloom Perfumery selects the warmest, richest, luxury autumn scents for the season Wo r d s C l e M e n t i n e Ly o n

1. DALI

by Salvador Dali

Sourced from a Spanish perfume house, this warm and spicy floral fragrance is a tribute to Dali’s wife and muse, Gala, and adds the perfect flourish to a little black dress for Christmas.  £49 for 50ml EDP, £69 for 100ml EDP Structure: Classic pyramid (top, heart, base) Aromatic group: A genuine ‘80s chypre Key perceptible notes: Bergamot, rose, jasmine, mimosa, patchouli, sandalwood More subtle notes: Cloves, violet leaf, frankincense, oakmoss

Structure: Classic pyramid Aromatic group: Floral spicy Key perceptible notes: Ylang-ylang, jasmine, rose More subtle notes: Bergamot, sandalwood, tonka beans

3. ONDA

by .vero.profumo.

2. HASU-NO-HANA

A daring, unisex contemporary scent with a vintage twist, this smoky perfume is best suited to artistic types with larger than life personalities. Swiss-made, it has an avantgarde character and an unconventional edge – the equivalent of a couture gown or fine sculpture. Available as a voile d’extrait (a concentrated perfume spray).  £156 for 50ml VDE

This ‘poetic ode to the lotus flower’ was first launched in 1888. Timeless, velvety and elegant, it’s the perfume equivalent of wrapping up in a winter coat. The ultimate indulgence and a great gift for a loved one..  £185 for 50ml EDP

Structure: Classic pyramid Aromatic group: Vetiver leather Key perceptible notes: Vetiver, ginger, coriander, iris, sandalwood, ambergris, honey More subtle notes: Mandarin, ilang-ilang, musk, patchouli

by Grossmith

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4. TABAC ROUGE by Phaedon

Simple ingredients combine to form a complex contemporary, yet mysterious scent in this unisex perfume, ideal in plummeting temperatures. With a wintry bohemian vibe underpinned by a plush, honeyed aroma, it goes perfectly with a beat-up vintage leather jacket and is great for parties and first dates.  £95 for 100ml EDP Structure: Modern linear (no top, heart or base) Aromatic group: Oriental (Spicy) Key perceptible notes: benzoin resin, honey, tobacco More subtle notes: cinnamon, honey, musk, incense

5. L’OMBRE FAUVE by Parfumerie Générale

Uniquely feline and alluring, this is a seductive, beguiling scent that will suit thrill-seekers of either sex. It seeks to recreate the impression of leather and fur, and in so doing provides a dramatic modern interpretation of vintage animalic notes. Not in the least bit conventional.  £117.50 for 100ml EDP Structure: Classic pyramid Aromatic group: Leather Key perceptible notes: Amber (a complex oriental perfume facet made up of styrax, benzoin and labdanum resins), vanilla, civet More subtle notes: Leather, vetiver

All scents are available at The Bloom Perfumery, 4 Hanbury Street, E1; bloomperfume.co.uk

44 14/10/2014 16:12

HEALTH & BEAUTY / MAKE-UP INSIDER ELEMIS

Pro-Radiance Illuminating Flash Balm, £33; timetospa.co.uk

NARS

Dual-Intensity Eyeshadow in Andromeda, £21; narscosmetics.co.uk

NARS

Angled Eyeliner Brush, £24; narscosmetics.co.uk

D&G AW14

NARS

FASHION FACE

Black Valley Eye Paint, £18.50; narscosmetics.co.uk

BY TERRY Cellularose

Blush Glace in Rose Melba, £38; uk.spacenk.com

Everyone’s after the universally flattering Dolce & Gabbana look. Here’s how it’s done BLINK

Brow Pen in Indian Chocolate, £18; blinkbrowbar.com

Wo r d s A R A B E L L A P R E S T O N

reated by make-up icon Pat McGrath, Dolce & Gabbana’s catwalk look has the strongest signature style of all fashion’s big hitters. It’s instantly recognisable, season to season, and is one of the most asked-for looks from my clients. The top-heavy black flicked liner, defined, wide brow, perfect skin and precise highlighting and contouring is universally flattering and perennially chic. Skin is everything here – start with a primer or serum that evens and plumps. I love the Elemis Illuminating Flash Balm for an instant pick-me-up. Smoothe, don’t rub it into your skin. If you have any problem areas then the Cover FX Blemish Treatment Concealer will heal as it conceals. Pop a little gel or cream blush on the apples of your cheeks, then using a wide brush sweep a matte contouring powder

(this Kevyn Aucoin one is simply the best) under your cheekbones and around the edge of your face. With a smaller brush, use the same powder to softly contour your eye socket. A subtle pink highlighting shadow popped onto your eyelids and tear ducts really brightens and freshens the look. For the flick itself, practice makes perfect. Start with a small fine line that you pull out just a small way, then build up to something more dramatic. Mark the flick gently, then close and fill in. The NARS angled brush is great for softening the edges of liquid liner. Load on the mascara and add lashes that are heavier at the outer corners if it’s evening. Dolce & Gabbana girls often rock a strong lip, but this season they had rosybalmed lips. You can achieve a similar effect by rubbing lip balm into your lips then patting a strongly pigmented lipstick like this NARS one into the centre of your lips, blending out using a finger. 

45 C&A_Nov_Makeup_Insider.indd 45

KEVYN AUCOIN

Sculpting Powder, £35, uk.spacenk.com

NARS COVER FX

Blemish Treatment Concealer, £2;, houseoffraser.co.uk

Audacious Lipstick in Julie, £24; narscosmetics.co.uk

EYLURE

Texture 153 Lashes, £5.25; eylure.com

NOVEMBER 2014

14/10/2014 16:57

SWA P S H O P Personal trainer and nutritionist Sarah O’Neill shares her top alternatives for a healthy start to winter

Fitness

CONFIDENTIAL Get in shape with the top fitness trends, tips and gear Wo r d s r o m y va n d e n b r o e k e

S WA P Pasta for vegetable spaghetti Purchase a spiraller and pull down the length of a squash or courgette for a delicious and tasty alternative to spaghetti. Top with any of your favourite toppings – bolognaise, arrabbiata or pesto – and you will have cut your calories and carbs down by around 75%. u

S WA P Rice for caulif lower rice Grate a cauliflower and either steam in a pan or in a steam bag in the microwave. It’s quick, simple, low carb and a perfect alternative to rice. Serve it with curries or chilli con carne. u

S WA P Jacket potatoes for new or sweet potatoes As a potato gets older the starch within turns to sugar, which isn't good for the waistline. Opt for new potatoes instead as they have more starch, slowly release carbs and are low GI. Sweet potatoes are even lower GI. u

Fine Fettle

S WA P

A l e x a n d e r Wa n g Fruit juice for f lavoured water A medium glass of fruit juice contains around 20g of sugar. Instead, add fresh mint, lime, lemon, strawberry or orange to water for a subtle hint of flavour. u

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Alexander Wang’s hotly anticipated new collection for H&M has been revealed, and the NYC-based wunderkind has taken a decidedly sporty turn. Monochrome shades, grey marl, lycra and logos predominate… Healthcore to the hilt. hm.com

46 15/10/2014 09:33

HEALTH & BEAUTY / NOTES

Anamaya

Keep your mind heathy with Anamaya's new meditation app. The app has 360 meditations, mindfulness exercises and learning resources for optimal wellbeing. £15 annual subscription; anamaya.co.uk

The Imaging Department celebrates its first anniversary

LO C A L n e w s

HIGHGATE HOSPITAL

MOBILE MIND

Wo r d s H E L E N B A R O N ighgate Hospital is celebrating the first anniversary of its state of the art Imaging Department, part of a £15 million expansion of facilities at its exclusive location on View Road in Highgate. The North London base allows the department to serve patients from across the area including Hampstead, Highgate and Finchley, and since its inception it has doubled in size, scanning over 3,600 patients. Increasing demand for services from local GPs and specialist consultants has meant the department has had to adapt quickly and now offers longer opening hours as well as sameday appointments. Of the new services introduced, a CT coronary angiogram checks for coronary heart disease, while a gastrointestinal scan screens for bowel cancer (the UK’s second biggest cancer killer). The hospital’s cardiac diagnostic services offer a faster reporting and test completion time than any other centre in London, while the hospital also routinely undertakes musculoskeletal, sports and spine imaging as well as a range of gynaecology and early pregnancy services (among other things). Fast, flexible and staffed by some of the country’s top consultant radiologists, we’re fortunate to have it on our doorstep – so join us in wishing it a very happy birthday indeed.◆

LOUNGE LUX Lucas Hugh

Functionality and style collide with luxury athletic brand Lucas Hugh’s new AW14 collection. Aztec patterns, slouchy tees and fashionable leggings are surely the best motivation for winter workouts. lucashugh.com

editor’s

PICK TORY BURCH X FITBIT Tor y Burch

Taken from Tory Burch and Fitbit’s exclusive collaboration, we love this chic brass metal-hinged bracelet that doubles as a Fitbit Flex to track workouts and sleep patterns. 149 New Bond Street, W1; toryburch.com

BEARING FRUIT Get Fruity

Ten years in the making, Get Fruity bars are that most holy of holies: a tasty snack bar with a decent claim to being healthy. It's down to the British oats, fresh fruits and virgin coconut oil. Licence to gorge away. getfruitybar.co.uk

● H I G H G AT E H O S P I TA L 17-19 View Road, N6; highgatehospital.co.uk

47 B&C_Nov_H&F_Notes.indd 47

NOVEMBER 2014

14/10/2014 14:29

A UNIQUE COFFEE

GU ATEM A LA

EL HONEY £10 250g BAG BUY ONLINE FARM Finca El Carmen PROCESS Experimental White Honey process REGION Acatenengo VARIETAL Bourbon, Typica, Catuai ALTITUDE 1675 – 1980m above sea level FLAVOUR Honeycomb & tea biscuit flavours with a muscovado sugar finish and a rich body. Strictly the ripest cherries were selected for this experimental processing and laid thickly on covered patios to dry for seven days (agitated once a day), before being processed as a washed coffee, (de-pulped, and dried again). Unlike natural coffee where the sugars of the cherry are allowed to ferment, honey processing washes the coffee before fermentation can occur, imparting sweetness without the fruit notes characteristic of natural processing.

GOURMET SMALL -BATC H ROASTERY

SUPPLYING THE SPECIALTY COFFEE TRADE AND PREMIUM RESTAURANT INDUSTRY WITH UNIQUE HAND CRAFTED COFFEE VOLCANOCOFFEEWORKS.COM Unit D016, Parkhall Trading Estate, 62 Tritton Rd, London, SE21 8DE, UK. roastery@volcanocoffeeworks.com +44 (0)20 8761 8415

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> STREET FOOD WITH ANDY BATES

p. 52

RECIPES FROM YOTAM OTTOLENGHI'S PLENTY MORE

p. 56

PHOTOGRAPHY BY RICHARD BOUTIN

MUG SHOTS With recipes that are almost unbelievably simple and baked in five minutes, Mug Cakes is nothing short of revolutionary. Perfect for lastminute desserts and to warm up cold hands on bonfire night. Mug Cakes by Lene Knudsen, Hardie Grant, ÂŁ7.99.

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NOVEMBER 2014

14/10/2014 14:34

LO C A L l a r d e r

ALMEIDA RESTAURANT Head Chef

Kitchen

CONFIDENTIAL The latest food news, served with all the trimmings

Tommy Boland

words HELEN BARON

he morning delivery is the most exciting part of my day, as some T of the best fish, meat and veg from around the country is delivered to my doorstep! I have always been passionate about sourcing the very best produce, especially given the ingredient-led menu at Almeida. My preferred choice for seafood is Daily Fish, who deliver quality and sustainable fresh fish to the industry throughout London. They work with day boat suppliers in ports all around the UK, supplying stuff like codling fillets from Scarborough and lemon sole from Whitby. Their Dover sole is incredible and goes perfectly with mussels and samphire (as served at Almeida). For fruit and vegetables I tend to rely on a supplier called First Choice, who have been based in New Covent Garden Market since 2001. When I have time and am not in the kitchen, I love walking around the markets and picking out the best fresh ingredients. Also, when I go walking in the Scottish countryside, I often discover herbs and veg growing on the land that inspire me when I get back to the kitchen. Classic Fine Foods is another key supplier, this time for luxurious and quality products such as truffles. My beef for Almeida’s Sunday lunches always comes from the family-run Rare Breed Meat Company, while I buy my grouse and venison from Yorkshire Game, who source their products from a wide range of estates, shoots and individuals. u

Brunch Bunch wahaca

Thomasina Miers’ much-loved Mexican chain has started serving brunch, so if you fancy your early eggs with a side of guac and a fiery chilli or two, you know exactly where to head. Huevos rancheros ahoy! 68 – 69 Upper Street, N1; wahaca.co.uk

● A L M E I D A R E S TA U R A N T 30 Almeida Street, N1; almeida-restaurant.co.uk

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FOOD & DRINK / NOTES RECIPE

Bandh Buildings

Noho favourite Bourne & Hollingsworth brings its signature delectables eastwards with the opening of B & H Buildings, a new all-day British brasserie and bar that recalls ‘the faded grandeur of an old country house’. Très elegant. 42 Northampton Road, EC1R; bandhbuildings.com

With Honey Roast Figs, Orange Mascarpone & Toasted Almonds

From CA F É KI TC H E N BY S HE L AGH RYA N INGREDIENTS - SERVES 2

JUST THE TONIC Peters Ginpalace

Top marks for perseverance: Peters & Co. Gin Palace has won a full premises licence after ‘several months of argy-bargy’ with the bods at Hackney Town Hall. This means the pop-up, housed in F. Cooke’s pie and mash shop on Broadway Market, has gone permanent: a real win for tipplers. 9 Broadway Market, E8; petersginpalace.com

125ml mascarpone • 2 tbsp single cream • 1⁄2 tsp grated orange zest, plus extra to serve • 1 tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice • 4 ripe ﬁgs, cut in half lengthways • clear honey, to drizzle • 100g whole almonds • 2 eggs • 100ml milk • 1⁄4 tsp pure vanilla extract • 1 tbsp caster sugar • 2–4 thick slices of brioche • unsalted butter, for frying icing sugar, for dusting • 2 baking sheets, greased and lined with baking parchment

R EC I P E o f t h e m o n t h

FRENCH TOAST

BOURNE AGAIN

editor’s

PICK MACARON MAGIC Pierre Marcolini

Even the humble biscuit is fashionable these days. Although, these are no ordinary biscuits. These macarons a limited edition collaboration between patisserie chef Pierre Marcolini and French designer Olympia Le Tan. Ohh la la. £27 for 12; selfridges.com

GOLDEN GOOSE El Ganso

This Spanish restaurant, new to Broadway Market already has a devoted following, with punters queuing up to sample Chef Marcelo Sánchez Cabrera’s authentic tapas and fantastic charcuterie. A welcome addition to the scene. 59 Broadway Market, E8; elgansocafe.co.uk

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METHOD 01 Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) 02 Mix the mascarpone, cream, orange zest and juice in a bowl. 03 Cover and set aside. 04 Place the figs, cut side up, on one of the baking sheets. 05 Roast for 15–20 minutes until soft and caramelised. Remove from the oven and set aside. 06 Scatter the almonds on the other baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes, cool completely then roughly chop. 07 To make the French toast, whisk the eggs with the milk in a large mixing bowl. Add the vanilla and caster sugar, and whisk again. Transfer to a shallow dish and set aside. 08 Melt a little butter in a large frying pan set over a medium heat. 09 Dip each slice of brioche in the egg mixture one at a time. Let the slices soak up the egg mixture for a few seconds, then turn over to coat the other side. 10 Place the slices in the hot pan and cook until golden on the bottom. Turn over and cook for a few minutes longer until golden. 11 To serve, overlap the triangles on the plate and add the toppings.

 Excerpted and abridged from Café Kitchen by Shelagh Ryan. Published by Ryland Peters & Small, priced £16.99. To order Café Kitchen for the special price of £11.99, call Macmillan Direct on 01256 302 699 and quote reference GLR K3K.

NOVEMBER 2014

14/10/2014 15:12

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SPOTLIGHT

EASY AS PIE Want to start a successful street stall and have your own cookery show? It couldn’t be easier, or so says East Londoner and TV chef Andy Bates Interview by edwina l angley

EL So, you’ve recently come back from Brazil. What did you do there? AB I was there for an English festival, exploiting English chefs and English food. The Brazilians love pies. I was making cheese and onion, and pork pies. We sold out in three hours. EL Do you travel a lot? AB I’m very lucky. Over the past four years I’ve been to South Africa, America and done the whole of the UK. It’s always good, being a Londoner, to get out of town. EL And obviously travelling helps with your cooking… AB Yeah, I like meeting people as a chef. I’m definitely not a chef who ‘knows everything’. I’m always learning. EL You did a show called ‘Street Feasts America’ for Food Network. What did you think about American cuisine? AB It’s great, very diverse. I got to see how they do things – how proper brisket is made, slowly, over 18 hours of cooking. EL It’s good that now people over here are also taking more time over cooking. That, and we’re becoming much more conscious

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about our ingredients and where they come from. Which, of course, is something you care about, not least through your promotion of the Quality Standard Mark. AB Yes, the QSM indicates the quality of what you’re about to buy. That stamp ‘says it all’ to everyone. There are meats we can buy from everywhere around the world – a chicken from Thailand – but when you look at that label, you know where it’s come from. EL Let’s chat about your childhood. You grew up in Mersham near Ashford... AB Yeah, in a small little village. My parents were both Londoners and we were always coming up at weekends. But I got bored as hell as a kid there [laughs]. Looking back though, it was amazing. EL Your first job was washing up in a pub? AB: Yeah, I was one of those kids that started working at 15. It really stood me in good stead, being able to watch from the back. I’m still good at washing up now! EL After that you studied catering at Canterbury College… AB How do you know so much about me? It’s scary!

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FOOD & DRINK / CHEF Q&A

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NOVEMBER 2014

14/10/2014 14:40

IL BORDELLO RESTAURANT & PIZZERIA

The finest Italian food made to order with the freshest ingredients. Add sparkle to your celebration this festive season, with our warm ambience, sumptuous food, seasonal tipples & enough cheer to last well into 2015. From lunches to dinners, we invite you to indulge in a feast of festivity. Rest assured weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll take care of every detail to make it a truly unforgettable occasion.

On behalf of our Team, we look forward to making this a very Merry Christmas for all who visit us 0207 481 9950 | www.ilbordello.com | 81 WAPPING HIGH STREET LONDON E1W 2YN

Lunch daily Monday to Friday : 12 Noon to 3pm | Dinner Mon-Sat 6pm to 11pm | Sunday: 1pm to 10:30pm

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FOOD & DRINK / CHEF Q&A RECIPE

LAMB CUTLETS WITH CREOLE MOJO SAUCE

I WAS PART OF A MOVEMENT that

wanted to do it for

THEMSELVES

EL Ha, ha, sorry! Then you spent a year in France, in Normandy… AB I spent nine months there. It was very regional, I could only cook their food. So I cooked with lots of Calvados and learned to make the best beurre blanc. EL Then you came back and, surprisingly, stopped cooking – for ten years! AB I was always cooking but yes, I worked in production. EL Why? AB I came back to London and I fell into it. But in that world you’re surrounded by catering. I always found myself hanging around the catering truck thinking, ‘I can’t get away from food’. So after nine years I started making pies for my friends' birthdays – pork pies. That inspired me to eventually put my first stall together on Brick Lane. S E RV E S 4

Preparation t ime : 1 0 m in s Cooking tim e: 1 2-16 m in s IN GR E D I E N TS

8 lean lamb cutlets or 4 lamb loin chops F O R T H E C R EO L E GA R L IC M A R IN A D E ( MOJ O CR IO L LO)

• 60ml/4tbsp olive or vegetable oil • Grated zest and juice of 2 oranges • Juice of 1 lime • Salt • 10ml/2tsp ground cumin • 3 garlic cloves, peeled and finely chopped • 15ml/1tbsp hot pepper sauce METHOD

EL Then, I read, a friend of yours who worked for Food Network mentioned the channel were looking for new talent. Apparently they spotted you, pointed and said: ‘It’s YOU!’ Is that how it happened? AB Yes! I just fell into it. But I think I’ve got along with it quite well. I’ve had a great time. I’m very grateful. EL What is it about street food that you like so much? AB At that time, in 2008, we were in the midst of recession. A lot of people were out of work and didn’t know what to do. I was part of a movement that wanted to ‘do it for themselves’. I really enjoyed working with suppliers, it was very hands-on – a great way to start a business.

01 To prepare the marinade; in a large shallow non-metallic dish, mix all the ingredients together. Place the cutlets or chops in the marinade mixture and coat well on both sides. Cover and refrigerate for 2 hours, or if time allows overnight. 02 Remove the cutlets or chops from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and cook on a prepared barbecue or under a preheated moderate grill for 6-8 mins on each side. Meanwhile, heat the marinade in a small pan until piping hot and pour over the chops before serving. 03 Serve the lamb with a quinoa and sugar snap pea salad. ◆

EL Is that all? AB Yeah, that and I don’t eat pies everyday. Simple as that. People ask me all the time when I’m filming, ‘why aren’t you fat?’. It’s because as soon as they say ‘cut’, I’ve got a soundman, a director and a cameraman, biting my hand for whatever’s in it. EL So you’re starved basically, you eat none of your food... AB No, obviously I eat and love my food! EL I was joking! AB It’s just when I’m filming, I take one big bite and then the whole crew jump on it. EL Just as well it’s not live – you’d have the whole audience jumping on you. AB [Laughs] Basically, I eat healthily and enjoy food during the weekends. EL Trivia questions. What’s your favourite pie? AB Any pie? At the moment, beef and oyster. EL Your three favourite ingredients? AB Flour, [long pause] butter… It’s a tough one. You’ve got me now. EL Flour and butter will do – that’s the beginning of a pie. What would be your last supper? AB Probably something simple but well done – like a surf and turf. Beef and lobster with fries and a béarnaise [sauce]. Very simple. EL What’s coming up next? AB I’ve been doing ‘Rescue Brunches’ at The Liquor Store in Dalston, and am also preparing for my new TV series. Hopefully I’ll get to do some more travelling as well.  Always make sure your beef and lamb is quality assured. The Quality Standard Mark in independent butchers and selected supermarkets guarantees that the beef or lamb is responsibly produced by people dedicated to producing great food.

TIP

For that extra special Latin effect why not add 30ml/2tbsp Tequilla to the marinade?

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EL So, you like pies and you eat a lot of pies. Why don’t you look like a pie? AB I cycle everywhere in London.

NOVEMBER 2014

14/10/2014 14:40

BROAD BEAN SPREAD wi th roasted garli c ri cotta

n extra portion for all bean-sheller helpers here! Don’t be put off by the need to start with skinned beans: buy them already skinned (I have seen them in a few Middle Eastern grocers’) or else it’s a fun and therapeutic task to delegate to helpers – little or big. This is a favourite with Tara’s twins, Scarlett and Theo, who race to see who can catapult the beans out first and, crucially, fly them into the designated bowl. Serve with toasted sourdough as a starter.

INGREDIENTS 1 head of garlic (10 cloves), cloves separated, skin on 125ml olive oil • 240g ricotta • 3 tbsp soured cream 2 lemons, rind shaved in long strips from one; 2 tsp finely grated zest from the other • 600g broad beans (400g if starting with skinned beans) • 1½ tbsp lemon juice • 15g mint leaves, chopped, plus 1 tbsp shredded mint leaves to garnish • salt and black pepper METHOD

CHEF SECRETS

Green Scene Ottolenghi’s new book Plenty More continues where Plenty left off – with another 150 inspiring vegetable-based dishes Wo r d s y o ta M o t t o l e n g h i

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01 Preheat the oven to 220ºC/200ºC Fan/Gas Mark 7. 02 Mix the garlic cloves with 1 teaspoon of the olive oil, place on a baking tray and cook for 15 minutes, until soft. Remove from the oven and when cool enough to handle, squash each garlic clove out of its skin using the back of a fork. Discard the skin and place the flesh in a small bowl, along with the ricotta, soured cream, ¼ teaspoon of salt and some black pepper: use a whisk to mix everything together well and set aside. 03 Place the remaining olive oil in a small saucepan with the shaved lemon skin. Place on a medium heat, bring to a gentle simmer, then remove from the heat to cool and infuse. 04 Bring a large pan of water to the boil. Add the broad beans, blanch for 1 minute, drain and then remove them from their skins. Crush the beans with a fork, add all but 1 tablespoon of the lemon-infused oil (removing the skin first), lemon juice, chopped mint, ½ teaspoon of salt and some black pepper and mix together. 05 Spread the ricotta mix in a thin layer on to the base of each individual plate or one larger platter. Spoon the broad bean mixture on top, lightly spreading it out to cover most of the ricotta. Sprinkle over the shredded mint and grated lemon zest and finish with a drizzle of the lemon-infused oil. u

56 15/10/2014 09:38

FOOD & DRINK / RECIPES

MERINGUE ROULADE w it h ro s e p e ta l s a n d fresh raspberri es S e rv es 8 ight, pretty, festive and special, this can pull off the trick of being either the Christmas Yule log (without the chocolate or the sponge) or the perfect pudding for a midsummer lunch.

INGREDIENTS Meringue: 4 egg whites (120g) • 250g caster sugar • 1 tsp vanilla extract • 1 tsp white wine vinegar • 1 tsp cornﬂour Cream: 100g mascarpone • 1 tbsp icing sugar, plus extra for dusting • 1½ tbsp rose water • 400ml whipping cream Filling: 150g fresh raspberries • 2 tbsp dried rose petals • 1 tsp slivered pistachios (or regular if unavailable), crushed METHOD

Preheat the oven to 160ºC/140ºC Fan/Gas Mark 3. 02 Line the base and sides of a 33cm x 24cm Swiss roll tin with greaseproof paper. 01

Allow the paper to come about 1cm above the sides of the tin. In a large, clean bowl, whisk the egg whites with an electric mixer until they begin to firm up. Add the caster sugar to the whisking whites in spoonfuls or tip into the bowl in a slow stream. Continue whisking until you achieve a firm, glossy meringue. Using a large metal spoon, gently fold in the vanilla essence, vinegar and cornflour. Spread the mixture inside the lined tin and level with a palette knife. 03 Bake in the oven for 30 minutes, until a crust forms and the meringue is cooked through (it will still feel soft to the touch). Remove from the oven and allow to cool in the tin. 04 Tip the cooled meringue on to a fresh piece of greaseproof paper. Carefully peel off the lining paper. 05 Meanwhile, place the mascarpone in a large mixing bowl, along with the icing sugar and rose water. Whisk to combine and become smooth, then add the whipping cream. Whisk by hand for about 4 minutes, until the cream just holds

57 C&A_Nov_Recipes_2pp.indd 57

its shape. (You can do this in an electric mixer but keep a close eye on it as it’s easy to over-mix.) Spread most of the mascarpone cream over the original underside of the meringue, reserving a few tablespoons. Leave a small border around the edge of the meringue. Scatter most of the raspberries and 1½ tablespoons of rose petals all over the cream. 06 Use the paper to assist you in rolling up the meringue along its long edge, until you get a perfect log shape. Carefully transfer the log on to a serving dish. Use the remaining cream to create a rough wavy strip along the top of the log. Chill for at least 30 minutes. 07 When ready to serve, dust the log with icing sugar, scatter the remaining rose petals, along with the pistachios, over the top, and dot with the remaining raspberries. 

Plenty More by Yotam Ottolenghi is published by Ebury Press, £27

NOVEMBER 2014

15/10/2014 09:38

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AMBERTH A fully bespoke interior design service that manages projects from beginning to end. Amberth specialises in design, supply and installation of custom-made furniture and fittings, implementing a truly dynamic approach to space planning. Working with some of the most unique materials from all around the world, Amberth strive for the best solutions to suit individual needs and requirements. 311 Essex Road, N1; amberth.co.uk

UP YOUR

STREET Absolutely picks the best local businesses in and around Upper Street and Essex Road

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HOXLEY & PORTER Hoxley & Porter is a veritable diamond in Londonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s urban dust. Step inside and then step back in time to find yourself in an atmospheric, jazz-styled haven, which offers exotic, potent liquors from all corners of the globe. The dining carriage treats you and fellow travellers to just what the seasoned palate craves â&#x20AC;&#x201C; timeless tastes of home. 153 Upper Street, N1, 0207 226 1375; hoxleyandporter.co.uk

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ABSOLUTELY / PROMOTION

FUNKTIONAL KITCHENS Based in Cross Street, Funktional Kitchens are proud to have built up an extensive client base of private individuals, architects and interior designers. They work right across the property spectrum, designing stunning kitchens in substantial family homes and city loft apartments. They have transformed dark basements into light, airy rooms and installed modern kitchens into converted farmhouses. 42 Cross Street, N1, 020 7359 4041; funktionalkitchens.co.uk

COP COPINE

FOOD LAB

This French fancy has long been based on the main stretch of Upper Street, stocking women’s apparel and bringing authentic Continental charm to the streets of London. Talilored looks abound and the shop’s interior decor is minimal (as is typical of Parisian style), focusing shoppers’ attention on the elegant, contemporary clothes. 184 Upper Street, N1; copcopine.com

The Food Lab specialises in rustic Italian grub, where the food is matched by exceptionally warm service. The buffet is ideal for lunchtimes (think pasta made on-site) and you can snaffle some of owner Liliana’s beautiful home-made sauces and preserves to pep up your own cooking too; her olive oil comes all the way from her very own groves in Tuscany. 56 Essex Road, N1; foodlablondon.com

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NOVEMBER 2014

15/10/2014 11:18

Yu l e t i d e

GUIDE Finchley Road 02’s got Christmas all wrapped up

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feel it in my fingers; I feel it in my toes! Christmas is coming and so is all the planning, shopping, cooking and partying that comes with it. The key to a truly relaxing Christmas is preparation, so to help you tackle your checklist we’ve teamed up with Finchley Road’s O2 Centre to bring you top tips on how to get everything from your home to your hair ready for the festive season. Then all you need to do is wind down and take some time out to treat yourself, your friends and family. u

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ABSOLUTELY / PROMOTION Cosy Christmas

OLIVER BONAS

has some fantastic

CHRISTMAS PARTY

accessories

NEAPOLITAN DELIGHTS at Rossopomodoro

kitchen CREATIVE

mpress your guests by putting a twist on your party menu this I year. Yotam Ottolenghi’s new recipe collection is packed full of vegetarian recipes that you will love and maybe even give you a new and interesting take on the Christmas vegetables. Serve your culinary creations in the beautiful terracotta ‘Terra’ cookware from Habitat for maximum impact. ◆

hether or not you’re hosting this year, getting your home ready for the season is sure to put you in the festive mood. Throws and pillows will add an instant cosy, chic effect and are decorations in their own right. These treats from BoConcept look good all year round, while the deliciously scented candle from Oliver Bonas is bursting with berries and cinnamon for maximum festive flavour. For decorations, a minimalist, frosty touch will quickly infuse your living space with a tasteful measure of winter. These Habitat baubles look as good on a traditional Christmas tree as they do on a stylish birch branch. ◆

A break from shopping

any of the centre's restaurants, including Neapolitan restaurant M Rossopommodoro, are offering winter menus that make the most of seasonal ingedients. Vue cinema is also the perfect place to snuggle up and enjoy a movie. There's plenty for all the family, including the new Paddington film, coming out in time for Christmas ◆

CUSHIONS £39, all from BoConcept

BAUBLES from Habitat, £4-5

EDITOR’S PICK

RED BERRY & CINNAMON CANDLE from Oliver Bonas, £54 BAUBLES from Habitat, £4-5

FLOREO BERRY STEM, from Habitat, £6 FLOREO GOLD BERRY Wreath, from Habitat, £38

PLENTY MORE by Yotam Ottolenghi, from Waterstone’s, £27

Top-To-Toe

etting ready for the party season can sometimes feel like it takes more effort than the festivities themselves. However, a visit to Hampstead’s newest cutting-edge salon Gro will not only have your locks looking amazing but will give you the chance to relax before the fun begins. Whether you’re after a restyle or a brilliant blowdry, we’re fans. Why not book yourself in for the Re-Hydrator facial at Virgin Active too you’ll be fresh-faced for the social season. To complete the look Oliver Bonas has some fantastic Christmas party accessories – these red and gold earrings will look fantastic with a simple black dress. ◆

TERRA COOKWARE, from Habitat, from £12

All wrapped up

resentation isn’t everything, but after all that preparation make sure your gifts are wrapped up to perfection. Paperchase has a lovely selection of everything from wrap to ribbons. It won’t just be the gift that will impress! ◆

EARRINGS, from Oliver Bonas, £15

GIFT WRAP from Paperchase, £3.50

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NOVEMBER 2014

15/10/2014 15:29

Where Taste Meets Where Taste

Its Climax

Meets its Climax

Unit A, Dunbar Tower, Dalston Square, London, E8 3DT 020 7249 1077

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11/08/2014 12:09

速 Restaurant | Lounge | Bar Le ziz is an anagram of the word leziz, which translates as the pinnacle of taste. le ziz features a rich mix of traditional Anatolian and Mezopotamian dishes cooked and prepared with modern techniques. Every inch of detail has hours of tireless effort, preparation and thought.

lezizrestaurants@gmail.com | Opening Hours Mon-Sun 12 noon to 11:00pm | www.lezizrestaurants.co.uk

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ABSOLUTELY / PROMOTION shares the same ethos, the same high quality ingredients, the same menu and attention to authentic Pan Asian detail. The noisy Vietnamese-style open-plan kitchens are a true feature as well as rich source of delicacies from countries like Thailand, Malaysia, China, Vietnam, Indonesia and Japan. New dishes are constantly created by the team of talented chefs and now include Beef Rendang and Blow-Torched Salmon Salad with Miso Vinaigrette. With salads, sushi, ramen dishes, small plates like smoked chicken and shichimi salt squid to choose from, and all available gluten free, there really is something to suit all palates and dietary needs. Getting takeout from Tootoomoo is like eating in. Cocktails like the Oriental Dream with rum, guava, lychee puree and a cheeky hint of ginger, can be collected or delivered to your door by your ‘waiter on wheels’ from Islington, Crouch End or Highgate stores, together with fat free frozen yoghurts with fresh fruit or naughty biscuit topping, plus Kirin and Singha Asian beers. The offers might be exclusive but the choice is not! And neither is the price. With meal deals from £26.90 and an £8.50 lunchtime Bento box (currently exclusive to Crouch End), there’s always a great deal at Tootoomoo. u

TAKE ME HOME Pan Asian takeout offers islington a whole new home dining experience

ooking for a takeout that gives more than it takes, that L puts healthy eating top of a selectively-sourced organic and gluten free seasonal menu, that makes customers feel special and treats them as individuals not faceless feeders? Then, good gentlefolk of Islington, look no further. From November the Pan Asian phenomenon that’s been sweeping North London from Crouch End to Highgate has arrived. Tootoomoo, in all her traditional bamboo, tin and wooden-crated glory, is opening for business in St Paul’s Road. Not exclusively for home diners (we boast a rather fabulous Mini Market

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selling all your Pan Asian goodies to create your very own dishes), this Islington newcomer has but a single, simple goal – to give N1 and N5 residents and visitors the best takeout experience possible. There’s no time to waste. Sign up to the website at tootoomoo.co.uk/islington now for a chance to be one of 25 diners picked each week for the first six weeks to receive a meal and cocktail absolutely FREE. Do follow us on twitter @ TootoomooIsN1, facebook.com/tootoomoo and pinterest.com/tootoomoo, then all future takeaway giveaways are sure not to be missed! Islington is the third Tootoomoo outlet to emerge in just two years. Each eatery

Tootoomoo 278 St Pauls Road, Islington N1 2LH 020 7704 6687. Also available at Crouch End & Highgate Open 12 to late 7 days a week. www.tootoomoo.co.uk

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RESTAURANT REVIEW / FOOD & DRINK Traditional RECIPES have been PASSED DOWN from the owner’s ABUELA

BOHO MEXICA Scoffing Mexican family food on Commercial Street Wo r d s R i c h a r d M e l l o r

eat Mexican-influenced grub about twice a month – shovelling down lunchtime burritos in Benito’s Hat-type cantinas, or mushing avocados into homemade guacamole. But Boho Mexica, a family-run restaurant setting out as it does to counterbalance a lack of ‘truly authentic’ Mexican food, promises a dining departure. It also pledges cocktail-fuelled laughs. Which is perfect, for tonight’s none other than my birthday. My appointed celebrator and I swap grins as we push inside. Wholly unexpected after the monochrome exterior, Boho Mexica’s kitsch decor confirms we’ve entered a funhouse: vintage ads, comics and film posters on the walls and a ceiling inked with illustrations.

We get right down to business and order drinks. The Boho Margarita, complete with an injection of tamarind, is a sweeter (and browner) take on its famous namesake: delicious, yes, but with less of a kick than expected. But such gentility isn’t an issue with my chum’s Watermelon Mezcaltini – fresh, fiery, flaked with hot chilli – after a glug of which I first pull a pained face then beam appreciatively. Spot? Hit. According to the menu blurb, traditional recipes have been passed down from the owner’s abuela (grandma) and are now cooked up by his Aunt Patty, aka the head chef. I’m charmed by the first-person commentary on dish descriptions – e.g. the Botana De Brisket ‘brings back childhood memories – at least for moi’. Despite this nostalgic

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sell, I begin with Tostadas de Ceviche. Two crisp tacos promptly arrive, piled high with shredded greens, zingy lime-marinated chunks of sea bass and delicate mayo. Meanwhile, my cohort is devouring grilled beef on soft-corn tacos. They don’t look half as pretty as my appetiser but chunkily-sliced, sweetly pickled onions contrasting beautifully with the tender meat make the taste contest run far closer. Top work, Aunt Patty. As the mains arrive, so should a disclaimer: I’m a man who shamelessly loves Hawaiian pizzas, and the Quesadillas Gringas I’ve ordered reprise that pork-pineapple-and-cheese combo. The marinated pork has a chilli kick, the melted cheese is perfectly mature, and this holy trinity getting it on amid tortilla triangles is clearly an inspired idea. “Oh god,” says my companion when she bites in. A clear case of food envy, and yet her Flautas de Barbacoa are mighty tasty, too – two crunchy, cigar-shaped pancakes crammed with lamb and scrumptious tomato salsa, accompanied by hearty bean stew. My amiga and I enthusiastically agree that Boho Mexica represents a winning, distinct take on Mexican nosh, as well as comfort-eating without the guilt. Feliz cumpleaños indeed. u

● BOHO MEXICA

151-153 Commercial Street, E1; bohomexica.co.uk

NOVEMBER 2014

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> GREAT EXPECTATIONS

p. 69

SCHOOL TALK: PUPIL PREMIUM

p. 73

MINIATURE.COM

KIDDY COOL London-based online kids' boutique Milo et Mimi combines Parisian chic with practicality, stocking adorable items from fantastic brands such as Miniatures [pictured]. ÂŁ325. paulsmith.co.uk

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NOVEMBER 2014

14/10/2014 14:58

Kids

10 of the best

KIDS PRODUCTS

CONFIDENTIAL Burberry’s new kids collection, the best backpacks and plenty of pretty accessories for little ones

BECKY & LOLO

Wall Sticker, prices vary; beckyandlolo.co.uk

Wo r d s M O L L I E L I N C O L N

HELEN DARDIK BABY K

Floral Dress, from £24; mothercare.com

Girl Plate, £6; thekidwho.eu

ALESSI

Cico Egg Cup, £11.95; store.alessi.com

MONSOON

AW14 clothing; monsoon.co.uk

PUNKIN PATCH

Split Chest of Drawers, £8,880; punkinpatch.co.uk

Kid Rock Burberry

Burberry's new AW14 collection for kids is effortlessly Brit cool; think mini trench and duffle coats, sneakers and drainpipe jeans. 121 Regent Street, W1; burberry.com

WINGREEN

Pirate Shack Playhouse, £200; wingreen.co.uk

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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KIDS & EDUCATION / NOTES

editor’s

PICK ART ATTACK Aurina

New from children's retailer Aurina is this sweet 'doodlematt'. Choose from a giraffe or elephant border and let your little ones scribble their way to artistic stardom. Who knows, you may have a budding Matisse on your hands. £22.95 each; aurina.co.uk

Backpacks we love

BOOTILICIOUS

Doctor Martens

There’s not much cuter than kids in Docs, plus they’re durable and hardy for winter, waterproofing little ones’ feet and giving good grip in slippery conditions. View the full range online, including the new AW14 styles £60; drmartens.com 04

LUXE LEATHERS Grafea

Pack them off to school with these beautiful leather backpacks by Grafea. Proudly made with love and care, the collection of limited edition satchels is too cute not to buy - the only problem is that we want one too. £220 each; harrods.com

1. PAPERCHASE Snackpackers Backpack, £20; paperchase.co.uk 2. BECKY & LOLO Space Rocket Backpack, £25; beckyandlolo.co.uk 3. ACCESSORIZE Sweet Backpack, £35; uk.accessorize.com 4. CATH KIDSTON Garden Ditzy Backpack, £45; cathkidston.com 5. PEANUT & PIP Fox Zoo Backpack, £20.95; peanutandpip.com

Two-Pack Winnie the Pooh Bodysuits, £10; next.co.uk

OUTDOOR TYPES Penfield

Cult American outerwear brand Penfield is launching a new children’s range exclusive to Couverture and the Garbstore this month. Think practical puffas, parkas and body warmers, all inspired by the brand's most iconic styles. The chill is definitely on its way, so be prepared. couvertureandthegarbstore.com

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JOHN LEWIS

Pony 3D cushion, £15; johnlewis.com

PAPERCHASE

Dreamscape Stationery Set, £5.50; paperchase.co.uk

NOVEMBER 2014

14/10/2014 15:18

First class Private Healthcare on your doorstep... 020 8341 4182 | www.highgatehospital.co.uk

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KIDS & EDUCATION / MUM-TO-BE

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

his month has been baby cray-cray. From deciding on antenatal classes (too soon?) to doing my hypno-birthing homework, it’s suddenly dawned on me that there’s a rather daunting amount of ‘stuff’ I’ll have to get to grips with in the coming months. Your local NCT branch is a good place to get an idea of what’s on offer – you pay a membership fee to join but most find that it offers more than the NHS in the way of ongoing and online support. Plenty of yoga studios also offer antenatal courses (the Life Centre in Islington being a great example), so there’s no shortage of choice. I opted for a private doula in Hackney who runs antenatal classes from her home – she came emphatically recommended by a

friend, which is always a good sign. Plus the testimonials from other local mums were glowing. Hypno-birthing hasn’t been as easy. An audio course designed to encourage positive thinking about birth (so that it doesn’t seem overwhelming when the time comes), a number of friends had sung its praises. But while my partner and I certainly find the lilting tones of the ‘therapist’ relaxing, at this stage I’m not convinced that imagining a leisurely stroll along a paradisaical beach is going to help me in the delivery room. The programme’s gentle assurances are intended to seep into your subconscious over repeated listens, so I’m persevering; perhaps in the heat of the moment, I’ll summon up a vision of a golden beach and all those months of soothing messages will coax me towards a Zen state. Here’s hoping...

I’m not CONVINCED that imagining a BEACH STROLL is going to help in the DELIVERY ROOM

According to the Baby Calendar, week 19 is when the baby’s sensory development is ‘exploding’. How exciting to think your little one might now be able to hear your voice; time to start busting out a tune or two? Or maybe just chat to baby instead – preferable to the normal wittering to oneself. There’s even a chance that baby might respond – from weeks 16 to 20, most (though not all) women start to feel flutterings as the little one moves about inside. I’ve also been tucking into the Mum and Baby programme from The Pure Package – one of the few delivery companies in the UK that offer healthy meals with pregnant women in mind. Providing essential fats and nutrients, the balanced (and, importantly, tasty) dishes and snacks can be a bit of a life-saver, as now is the optimum time to pay special attention to your diet, topping up on vitamins and minerals and introducing baby’s taste buds to the wholesome way of life. Healthy eating is especially important when you consider that your baby is still only the size of a mango – the old maxim ‘eating for two’ doesn’t hold much weight – and it will stand you in good stead as you reach the next milestone: the twentyweek scan… u Prices start at £39.95; purepackage.com

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NOVEMBER 2014

14/10/2014 15:18

THE NEW KIDS BAG WITH TABLET!

A NEW F RANGE O ’S CHILDREN D DESIGNE S K C A P K BAC U, BOTH YO TO KEEP PPY KIDS, HA AND THE UT AND WHILST O ABOUT KIDS CAN USE THE TABLET WHILST SAFELY PROTECTED IN THE BACKPACK Watch ﬁlms, Play games, Take, and store photos • Includes many kids fun / educational games, pre-loaded Dual core Chip, WIFI, 1024 x 800 touch screen, 8GB storage Micro SD slot expandable to 32GB • USB and HDMI ports to connect to TV/PC Dual Camera • Bumper protector integrated into tablet • Use in car, on train, on plane.

OUR ON THE MOVIES BAG MAKES A GREAT GIFT FOR LITTLE ONES, AND COMES COMPLETE WITH TABLET FOR ONLY £89.95

FOR KIDS ON THE MOVE

On the Movies backpack. The new kids bag with tablet! visit our store at onthemovies.co.uk

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KIDS & EDUCATION / SCHOOL TALK

Pupil Premium

With private schools becoming increasingly unaffordable for the British middle classes, should they charge foreign students more? Wo r d s A M a n d a C o n s ta n c e

rivate schools should charge foreign pupils higher fees than children from Britain, an education entrepreneur has claimed. Alexander Nikitich, who set up the Oxford-based Carfax Tutorial Establishment, says private schools should follow the model used by universities and ask overseas parents to pay more for their offspring to attend Britain’s top fee-paying schools to prevent British families being priced out of the market. The idea of a graded pay system has long been mooted in independent school circles but Nikitich’s comments follow a study published earlier last July that claimed a four-fold increase in school fees in the last 20 years has outstripped wages to such an extent that private schools are ‘increasingly unaffordable’ for the middleclasses and becoming the preserve of super-rich foreigners. Nikitich, who is originally from Russia, says: ‘It seems wrong that billionaires from Russia and the Far East are paying the same as British dentists, doctors and solicitors who are seeing their income plummet in real terms.’ A number of independent schools ask wealthy foreign parents for donations and offer means-tested bursaries to British children but this does not go far enough says Nikitich, who called for an ‘open and transparent approach’. ‘Private schools overseas are entirely open about charging more to foreign students. It seems foolish for it to be a problem in England.’ But William Stadlen, managing director of super-tutors Holland Park Education, disagrees. ‘I don’t think it’s a good idea necessarily. I think there should

THE TYPE of

family that can afford PRIVATE schools has CHANGED DRAMATICALLY

be means-tested support based on income levels and not based on nationality.’ The popularity of Britain’s private schools overseas is clear from the rising number of foreigners, with the number of pupils arriving from Russia up by more than a quarter last year, while there was a 16% increase in students from Nigeria and 5% rise in Chinese admissions. In some schools, the number of international students has crept above the 25% mark – many boarding schools wouldn’t have survived the economic downturn without foreign students. But Janette Wallis, senior editor of The Good Schools Guide, said schools were ‘increasingly aware that if they do not want to end up with their schools stripped

73 C&A_Nov_Education.indd 73

of British children they need to rein in fee increases’. The report into the rising costs of school fees – commissioned by the stockbroker Killik & Co – found that the type of family that could afford private schools fees ‘has changed dramatically since 1990’. ‘It is less likely to be the archetypal middle-class professional and more likely to be high net worth individuals, increasingly international. Many established independent schools like Eton and Harrow educate the children of some of China’s wealthiest multimillionaires.’ Figures in the Killik study, carried out by the Centre for Economics and Business Research, suggest that an infant enrolled at a private day school this academic year will ultimately cost their parents £271,000 in fees and added extras by the time they take their A-levels in 13 years’ time. A boarding education will stand at £435,000, it was claimed, and approach close to £1m for two children. Parents in traditionally well-paid careers such as accountancy, law, finance and academia are now less likely to afford an independent education than plumbers were in the early 1990s. Families taking the ‘state till eight’ route – with pupils enrolled in state primary schools for the first three or four years – will save £94,000, the report said. The ‘state till 11’ option saves almost £175,000 per child. Barnaby Lenon, chairman of the Independent Schools Council, has defended private school fees. ‘Independent schools remain affordable to a wide range of families via our strong bursary programmes. Last year, ISC schools provided over £320 million in means-tested bursaries and the total value of bursaries at ISC schools has risen by 27% since 2010, well above the rate of any fee rises.’ u

NOVEMBER 2014

14/10/2014 15:21

Luxury European Furniture since 1962

London & M25 Showrooms 020 7760 7558

WHARFSIDE.indd 21 absolutely-ad9.indd

wharfside.co.uk 17/10/2014 12:25 16:45 01/10/2014

> WALL STORY: WITH FARROW AND BALL'S HEAD OF CREATIVE

p. 80

GET THE G-PLAN LOOK

p. 85

UNDER CONSTRUCTION The ‘Deconstructed Windsor’ collection by furniture designer William Warren for Heal's is a mix of traditional craft techniques and stylish contemporary finishes. Prices vary; heals.co.uk

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NOVEMBER 2014

14/10/2014 15:23

10 of the best

London-inspired interiors 01

Bring the city into your home and live the high life with Julien Macdonald on Decorex

ELLA DORAN

Buses Tray for London Transport Museum, £29.99; ltmuseumshop.co.uk

Wo r d s G e M M a B i l l i n g t o n

LOST DESTINATION: EUSTON ARCH 5 colour litho print; £35; wearedorothy.com

02 03

HINTONS HOME Legendary London Streets Limited Edition Print, £35; hintonshome.com

ANOTHER STUDIO

London City Clips, £6.75; another-studio.com 05

Starry Night Star by Julien MacDonald

HOME CANDY

Iconic London Wallpaper; £125 per roll; homecandy.com

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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Flamboyant fashion designer Julien Macdonald has turned his hand to homeware, designing the exclusive Star by Julien Macdonald range of decadent accessories for Debenhams. Go all-out glam without breaking the bank. Prices vary; debenhams.com

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HOMES & INTERIORS / NOTES 06

MUSEUM OF LONDON

Wooden Skyline Coat Hanger; £50 museumoflondonshop.co.uk

TO THE WIRE Ben Rousseau

New from innovative furniture and interior designer Ben Rousseau is the quirky wire bubble chair and radiant new Moon light, as pictured here. POA; benrousseau.com

LONDON KILLS ME

Hand Printed London Landmark Slate Coasters, £24; rockettstgeorge.co.uk

editor’s

PICK

DECO DELIGHTS Shristiane Lemieux

DwellStudio founder Christiane Lemieux continues her collaboration with House of Fraser with the launch of a new range for AW14. The theme is a continuation of the Spring/Summer collection, which included citrus colours and Art Deco shapes. houseoffraser.co.uk

CATH KIDSTON

London Kitchen Clock, £35; cathkidston.com 09

MIRROR IMAGE Richard Brendon

The Reflect collection of handpainted cups and saucers by British bone china specialist Richard Brendon is a clever take on traditional china sets that's sure to liven up your afternoon tea. richardbrendon.com

YONI ALTER

London Poster; £8; shop.tate.org.uk

MARBLE MAGIC Bibliotheque

Bibliotheque offer the very best in Italian porcelain and Marfil marbles. Easy to install and low maintenance, the unlimited, ethical designs come in a choice of matt or polished finish. Head to the London showroom to see the current collection. bibliotheque.co.uk

CATH KIDSTON

London Buses Stanley Mug, £6.50; cathkidston.com

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NOVEMBER 2014

14/10/2014 15:31

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

www.harriselectricalltd.co.uk

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11/08/2014 10:16

Installations and connections you can trust

Harris Electrical is a family run business that has retailed domestic appliances and home entertainment from showrooms on Lower Clapton Road, Hackney for more than 80 years.

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11/08/2014 10:18

XXXXXX / XXXXXXX

IN FOCUS

WALL STORY Absolutely quizzes Charlotte Cosby, Farrow and Ballâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s head of creative, about what makes wallpaper work Interview pendle harte

ABSOLUTELY What makes an effective wallpaper design? CHARLOTTE COSBY The designs that are most effective are usually very simple. For example, one of our new wallpapers Yukutori is a simple flowing pattern with groups of birds gracefully flying across the paper. They could be just as easily interpreted as the crest of waves or mountain tops. Rooted in nature, this paper will create a calm feel in any room. ABS What sort of patterns look wrong on wallpaper? CC There are no rules with wallpaper, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all down to personal taste. Of late, advances in printing technology mean you can have anything from a full scale mural, to ceramic papers and even 3D papers. At Farrow & Ball all wallpapers are made using our paint, which is applied using traditional printing methods. This gives our papers a unique texture and a beautiful, luxurious appearance. ABS How do wallpaper designs differ from textile designs? CC Very little actually. Historically, textiles have been used as wall coverings. We often look to old textiles as sources of inspiration for our wallpaper designs. When textiles are used in fashion rather than interiors there is one main difference, which is colour: you tend to see a lot more of a pattern on a wall than you do on a dress, so we are mindful of this when creating collections, being sure that the colours we choose work on a large scale. While we were

Amime

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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HOMES & INTERIORS / DECORATING

SHOUCHIKUBAI

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NOVEMBER 2014

15/10/2014 09:44

XXXXXX&/INTERIORS HOMES XXXXXXX / DECORATING YUKITORI

YOU SEE A LOT MORE of a pattern on a wall THAN YOU DO ON A DRESS developing the colourways for Amime, we ended up with lots of options that would have looked great on a skirt, but wouldn’t have suited a dining room. ABS Where did the Japanese influence for Farrow and Ball’s new collection come from? CC At Farrow & Ball we’ve always felt inspired by Japanese craftsmanship and design, and we share a dedication to traditional production methods. Personally, having taken two trips to Japan I have developed a real love for Japanese design. Following the tsunami in 2011 much of the creative industry used Japan as a reference, and three years later you can really see the impact it’s had on the fashion, ceramics and interiors industry, with many Japaneseinspired pieces appearing in designer collections and on the high street. Our new wallpapers celebrate the age-old ties between British and Japanese design, which are demonstrated in the subtlety of the patterns that are evocative of peaceful, rural Japan. ABS How do you create the textured look of the papers? CC By using our own water-based paints, and applying them by traditional block printing methods, the papers feature a luxurious texture that is signature to Farrow & Ball. Each wallpaper has a unique texture achieved by using a handbrushing technique to apply the ground colour. Applying additional layers of paint on top of the ground colour to create the design results in a layered, textured look and feel.

SHOUCHIKUBAI

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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ABS What colours are most popular for wallpapers and why? CC Our new neutrals, Purbeck Stone and Ammonite, which were launched in September last year, are proving to be a popular colourway on wallpaper. This combination creates a look and feel that is calm, easy to live with, and one that doesn’t lose its appeal over time. However, the bolder colourways attract a

lot of interest and customers love the use of the metallic colours, which really bring the designs to life, adding luxury and glamour. These bolder papers are perfect for using on feature walls, or in rooms where you want to create an impact. ABS Do you start with the colourway or the pattern when designing? CC Always the pattern. The style and movement of the pattern really affects which colours will look right and show the design off in the best way. The designs in our new collection are very versatile in terms of colour, allowing us to go a little bolder, like with Aranami BP4603. u 58 Rosslyn Hill, NW3; farrow-ball.com

82 15/10/2014 09:46

We’ve married the iconic styling of our 50s and 60s furniture, with our renowned comfort and craftsmanship. Original inspiration. Timeless quality. Be inspired at your local G Plan Vintage specialist.

gplanvintage.co.uk Image shows The Fifty Nine in Tonic Charcoal.

G PLAN.indd 1

Opening Times After Noah Ltd, 121 Upper Street, Islington, London N1 1QP

www.afternoah.com

020 7359 4281

Mon-Sat: 10am – 6pm Sun: 11am – 5pm Easter Sun and Christmas Day to New Year’s Day: Closed

14/08/2014 17:21

timeless

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

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

www.funktionalkitchens.co.uk

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INTERIORS / GET THE LOOK

RETRO REDUX The marvellously motley apartment tucked away above Islington’s After Noah Photography Rebecca Noonan he owners of After Noah clearly don't believe in separating business and pleasure, as evidenced by the fact that they live right above their place of work. Decked out in vintage furnishings including a collectable sofa and chair by classic Brit brand G Plan and an elm table made from reclaimed Chinese junk-boat timber, the overall look is a melting pot of the antique, the mid-century and the modern. 

All products stocked at After Noah, Upper Street, N1; afternoah.com

EICHHOLTZ

Islington Leather Chair, £895

AFTER NOAH

Ceramic Hand Bowl, £18

Wine Glass Chandelier, £495

AFTER NOAH

G PLAN

Reclaimed Elm Dining Table, £695

Fifty Eight Small Sofa, £1,682

85 Nov_C&A_Getthelook.indd 85

G PLAN

Vintage Sixty Two Leather Chair, £1,875

EIBERT DRAISMA

NOVEMBER 2014

14/10/2014 15:42

The N1 Centre is pleased to host its Christmas market from 24th November until 28th December, amidst its hub of shopping, dining and entertainment. Inspire someone you love with a unique gift from one of the market’s twinkling wooden cabins; offering you one-off handmade crafts and presents with a personal touch for under the tree.

The N1 Centre launches its season of festive fun for all the family Welcome the start of the festive season with the N1 Centre in Islington.

n1islington.com

Come and visit the N1 Centre for its annual Christmas light switch on, taking place on Saturday 22nd November. Father Christmas and friends will be visiting the N1 Centre from 12pm, with four 30min performances on the hour and will be switching on the lights at 4.30pm.

n1shoppingcentreislington

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13/10/2014 15:06

ABSOLUTELY

HAVE A SPRING CLEAN-OUT!

TO CELEBRATE OUR 10th ANNIVERSARY

MAGA ZINES

HAVE UPTO 10 ITEMS LISTED FOR FREE*

£7,499

£7

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BOOK YOUR ADVERTISING CAMPAIGN BEFORE NOVEMBER 12TH TO GET SPECIAL EARLY BIRD ADVERTISING RATES FOR CHRISTMAS AND THE WHOLE OF 2015.

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1. Arrange a home visit or drop off your items 2. We sell your items for you on eBay 3. You get paid TO ARRANGE A HOME VISIT: 020 7424 0761 info@flogit4u.com

Flogit4u.com

76 Haverstock Hill, London, NW3 2BE. Registered in England and Wales no 5153520 *Offer ends 30th April. Applies to listing fees only. Other fees still apply. Expected item sale value must be £50 or more.

FLOGIT4U_April.indd 1 ADVERT PLACEMENTS.indd 2

12/03/2014 16:37

Call Kristian Brumby on 0203 397 3834 or email kristian.brumby@zest-media.com

15/10/2014 10:18

HOMES & INTERIORS / PRODUCTS NORDIC HOUSE

Marbelled Pillar Candle, £11; nordichouse.co.uk

NORDIC HOUSE

HABITAT

Vintage Wooden Skis, £85; nordichouse.co.uk

Knot Natural Knitted Round Pouf, £95; habitat.co.uk

SWEETPEA & WILLOW Leon Dining Table, £1,468; sweetpeaandwillow.com

ONEFINESTAY.COM

CHESNEY’S

Broughton Steel & Leather Log Holder; £390; chesneys.co.uk

SWANKY MAISON Heart shaped wooden coasters, set of 6, £9.99; swankymaison.com

JAN CONSTANTINE Christmas Collection, prices vary; janconstantine.com

PULLMAN LIMITED EDITIONS

St Moritz: Downhill Skiers, £395; pullmaneditions.com

OKA HOME, PISTE SEASON BEDROOM; OKADIRECT.COM

WEWOOD

Kundera Armchair, £1,185; luxdeco.com

IITTALA

Tsaikka by Iittala Clear Glasses, £11.50; skandium.com

CHALET CHIC Go off-piste this month with warming alpine-inspired interiors

ALEXANDER & PEARL

Woodland Set of 3 Storage Trunks, £295; alexanderandpearl.co.uk

EICHHOLTZ

Horn Chandelier, £1,065; luxdeco.com

87 C&A_Nov_Interior_Products.indd 87

NOVEMBER 2014

14/10/2014 15:46

TRO N I H ONT M A £3

FFER O N CTIO

TRY NEW THINGS So far this year, we’ve been up 2 towers- the Oxo Tower and the Shard; we’ve sung our hearts out in a Reggae Choir, gone scuba diving, had walks & picnics, as well as some fantastic nights out! MEET NEW PEOPLE Through our regular meet ups and events, we give people the opportunity to make new friendships & connect with each other. CONNECT WITH THE BOROUGH We showcase some of the fantastic things on offer from community organisations and local businesses. SAVE MONEY Our Camden source & arrange deals for our Members with local businesses. This enables us to support independent business & encourage people to shop locally whilst making great savings.

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

08/10/2014 11:48

> DISCOVER THE BEAUTY OF HOI AN, VIETNAM

p. 90

CONTEMPORARY COTTAGE LIVING ON THE COAST p. 92

ORIENTAL EXPRESS Be transported to another world with Holly Baxter's guide to the beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hoi An, Vietnam (pictured) and take a tour of Ireland's coolest coastal cottage.

89 B&C_Nov_Travel_Opener.indd 89

NOVEMBER 2014

14/10/2014 15:47

XXXXXX / XXXXXXX TRAVEL

Good Morning,

VIETNAM Absolutely discovers the UNESCO World Heritage town of Hoi An, Vietnam W o r d s H o l ly B a x t e r

oi An is a small town, flanked by the metropolises of Hanoi in the north and Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) in the south, with miles of dirt roads and rice paddy fields in between. Travelling by road is possible, but notoriously slow; the only realistic method of reaching Hoi An is by touching down at its local airport half an hour away. From there, a taxi for the halfhour ride to Hoi An hovers around the $15 mark – and yes, the drivers (as well as everyone else in Vietnam) will accept American dollars as readily as they do Vietnamese Dong. From what I’d heard, Hoi An is the town that has it all: picturesque countryside vignettes hovering

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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unbelievably close to ancient Chinese and Japanese architecture; unspoilt beaches only minutes away from markets filled with merchants who will churn you out a completely bespoke silk dress or wool suit in a matter of hours; lantern-covered rivers running through a town where residents range from elderly women in conical hats selling fruit from wooden wagons to their spritely grandchildren navigating the streets on pink mopeds, catching pictures of the tourists with their iPads. It’s hard to believe that Hoi An can be all these things; such high praise risks condemning it to saccharine hyperbole. And in many ways, it would be untrue to say that this small part of Vietnam seems like paradise, when our first glimpse of it through a taxi window is of hundreds of honking motorbikes bellowing their way through dusty streets. Yet, once you have been here, you can’t imagine a better place to return to. What is it, specifically, that makes Hoi An so special? Partly, it’s the sheer diversity of terrain: our small boutique hotel at the edge of town (5* suites for £26 each per night) looked over paddy fields populated with rice pickers and water buffalo on one side, and an urban scene of street hawkers advertising grilled coconut crisps on the other. Like most hotels in Hoi An, the Essence lent us bicycles and maps of the surrounding area for free; fifteen minutes down the road astride them, we discovered a palm tree-lined beach and a raucous sea to cool down in. A further five minutes from

there, we came across the vegetable village of Tra Que: acres of lush green land as far as the eye can see, tended into neat lines of every herb and vegetable possible. Those who live in the town are evangelical about its charms. Women on their way home from dropping children at school or taking a break from selling fruit and handmade wares in the town approached us as we wandered the winding streets, asking why we were visiting and what we thought of the place. They told us about their families, one weaving us a tale about her renegade sister who had married a German tourist and moved to Hamburg. Two minutes off the main tourist walkways, adventurous visitors can find their way into the semi-chaotic local cloth

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TRAVEL / HOI AN

market, where an unbelievably small Vietnamese woman stood on an upturned box with a tape measure and tailor-made a Chanel copy suit for us for $45. Due in no small part to its lovingly tended architecture, Hoi An was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. UNESCO describes it as ‘an exceptionally well preserved example of a South East Asian trading port dating from the 15th to the 19th century.’ The ancient buildings, adorned with lanterns made by silksellers sat in shopfronts that line the streets, are kept in good repair by mainly local donations: residents’ pride in the area is strong. It’s hard to believe that, as recently as 1968, this area of Vietnam was infamous for shocking coverage of the My Lai Massacre, a violent purging of a nearby village by American soldiers.

We DISCOVERED a PALM TREE-lined beach and RAUCOUS SEA The Vietnamese of today have not forgotten that war: charity boxes collecting for the victims of Agent Orange punctuate the winding streets, but there is no bitterness toward western visitors. Meanwhile, the happy-go-lucky atmosphere – where traders quite literally tell you to ‘be happy and lucky’ as you pass – is infectious. Hoi An is dissected by the Thu Bon river, which – despite the food and cloth markets jostling for attention further in – is its own centre of commerce. Rather

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than visiting merchants, now Vietnamese children selling candles line the banks, while the riverside proper is abundant with fishing boats waiting to take you anywhere you could possibly hope to visit. We took a private $10 boat to a village one day and a $5 ride down the river with candles on our last night. We were lucky enough to have our final night fall on the monthly lunar celebration, where all traffic and electric lighting is banned, and the town lights up with the candles of a thousand lanterns and the burning of incense sticks at tiny impromptu shrines outside homes and businesses. We let our paper lanterns float down the river from our small wooden boat, and made silent wishes. u hoianessencehotel.com

NOVEMBER 2014

14/10/2014 15:54

TRAVEL / WANDERLUST IN FOCUS

BORN SLIPPY How two avid surfers dodged the rat race and built the home and café of their dreams Wo r d s J a n e & m i l e s l a m b e r t h

But the day it arrived, that was it – we were finally home. We breathed a sigh of relief and put the kettle on. The wood in the table is reclaimed – in discreet places you can find strips of red, yellow and white markings, little reminders of its former life as a basketball court. So we’re not afraid to dance on it! We’ve gathered around it to eat, drink, cook, chat and laugh; and, lately, to work on our book.

THE VISION

u The architect, John Wiggins, we found because he’s a local surfer, really cool and really earthy. We brought him to the site and invited him to dinner. We actually never bothered to look further because it was so clear he was the right fit for us and for the house. He understood everything from the wind direction and the quality of light to the local surf lifestyle – it was a great connection. Next we found a builder who had worked in New York and really knew about concrete. Derek Shaw understood our vision and also contributed cool ideas. We’d come back with the oddest materials and strangest requests, but the lads went along with it. They probably thought we were mad half the time, but Derek would say: “Tell me what you want and don’t worry about how to make it happen – it’s my job to make it happen.” By the end, they were proud of what they’d achieved, and rightfully so.

THE DINING TABLE

u From our earliest conversations with John, we had a firm idea about the dining setup and even our dream table. We wanted it right next to the kitchen; we wanted the table to be long and narrow;

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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THE LOOK WHEN YOU take on a PROJECT Like this you need TO KNOW YOUR STYLE. we wanted it to fit at least 10 people; we wanted it to be handcrafted and Irish made. In a sense, the house was built around it. When we found Sean Fogarty at Rocker Lane Workshop, we found our table. Before it was delivered, people told us it would be too narrow, that its wood would clash with the timber wall and that it would dominate the space.

u When you take on a project like this you need to know your style. We knew from the onset we loved industrial style. We also wanted to respect the character and history of the old cottage. All our energy went into sourcing materials that would give us the industrial feel but also respected the mood of the house and the location. As our house is open plan, we needed one strong identity to run through it. We also wanted to create a sense of space and freedom, so we kept doors to a minimum and opened up the ceilings to their maximum height. We stuck to raw materials. We’ve used concrete, stone and wood for our primary floor, walls and kitchen units. So although the quality and colour of all the woods and stones vary, it seems to work.

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TRAVEL / IRELAND

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NOVEMBER 2014

15/10/2014 09:54

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TRAVEL / IRELAND We created a visual moodboard for all our areas. Everywhere we went we took pictures, tore scraps from magazines and spent days searching the internet. It’s a lot of effort but worth it when you find the right piece and the look you want. I think it also helps you really hone in and define your style. If you don’t know what you like, then no one around you, from the builder to the architect, will know either. Our goal was to create an industrialstyle cottage. The concrete floors were always on the cards, and they form a key part of the look. Everything followed from that. Even our kitchen has a poured concrete counter and island, with reclaimed wood for the presses. It’s all about texture and feel. Because of this we’ve kept the colour palette of the house very muted.

THE KITCHEN

u The kitchen for us was really important. We wanted it to look great as it’s such a central part of our house, but it also needed to be functional. It’s one area you don’t want to get wrong. We created a moodboard and went from there. The first appliance we bought was the cooker. The instructions from Myles were: it must be gas on top and have an electric oven. We went all out and got a six-ring stove. Since we moved in, it’s cooked a lot of meals! Another definite for us was open shelving. We hate stretching in around corner presses, opening every door looking for something. So we took scaffold planks from the site and used them as long shelves along one part of the kitchen. It created a sense of space without

Our GOAL was to CREATE an

INDUSTRIAL-STYLE cottage. overhead cupboards, and it also meant we could make a feature and add colour with our vintage cups, glasses and eclectic vase selection. Most counters get so clogged with appliances that there’s no work surface left, so we allowed for a large prep island that divides the kitchen from the dining table. This is the central workstation and allows everyone to chat and chill while dinner is being prepared.

C. The directional lighting in the kitchen is made up of lengths of galvanised chain, lightweight pipe and clip lamps sourced online. We sketched it for the builders and they did the rest. D. The quirky ornaments we’ve attached to the garden fence were found in a derelict factory. They came from old machines, and we’ve just tied them on with fishing line. E. Spray paint is the easiest way to overhaul old junk, and the kind designed for graffiti is by far the best because the range of colours is incredible. You can also get different nozzles for different effects, and it dries really, really fast. Check the wind direction before you start and put down loads of newspaper. Also be sure to wear gloves, or you’ll be washing your hands for weeks. Don’t forget to tag your work when you’re done! u

ONE MAN’S JUNK…

u Although our home started its life as a cottage, we love an industrial look, which is why we used rough-hewn elements like exposed brick, concrete, stone walls and weathered timber. We layered on top of these surfaces yet more textures that call to mind an old factory… A. The space for a bathroom door was limited, so we went to a local engineering firm who fabricated a huge sliding door. To get a suitably aged patina, we left it outside to develop a bit of rust. B. It’s super-easy to make a pendant lampshade from a length of copper wire. Just bunch it into shape around the bulb and you’re all set.

95 C&A_Oct_SURF CAFE LIVING.indd 95

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NOVEMBER 2014

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Sacrifice never tasted sweeter.

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10/03/2014 11:44

Property Absolutely

November 2 014

> PROPERTY ROUND UP p. 104 IN THEIR OWN WORDS p. 112 ASK THE EXPERTS p. 122 SHOWCASE p. 118

Alisa Lodge, Oakleigh Park South, N20

Two bed from ÂŁ500,000

Alisa lodge is a development of one and two bedroom apartments, and a magnificent three bedroom penthouse. The development has been constructed to an exceptional standard and sits among the affluent surroundings of Oakleigh Park. All of the apartments overlook the beautiful landscaped gardens and most have wonderful views of London.

Martyn Gerrard, Whetstone martyngerrard.co.uk

020 8446 2111 99 PROPERTY FRONT COVER.indd 1

NOVEMBER 2014

14/10/2014 09:37

50 years of fulfilling dreams

...for all generations

AYLMER ROAD, EAST FINCHLEY, N2

£475,000

A completely refurbished two bedroom apartment full of designer features in a sought after Mansion block equidistance to East Finchley & Highgate amenities. THE OWNERS LOVE…

WE’VE NOTICED…

“This is a truly peaceful, light, airy and spacious flat with every room having its own window”

The flat comes with two car permit spaces

“Luxurious finishes have been applied almost everywhere, including a slate feature wall in the bathroom, built in mood lighting and a corian sink to give it a sleek finish” “We have direct access to a balcony, plus a well maintained large communal garden ideal for those al fresco occasions”

• 2 Double bedrooms • Luxury Bathroom • Balcony with seating area • Double & secondary glazed windows • Well maintained communal gardens • Engineered wood flooring • Video phone entry system • Energy rating: C

East Finchley office • T: 0208 883 0077 • E: N2@martyngerrard.co.uk • 66/68 High Road, East Finchley, London N2 9RP MG_NXNW.indd 1

www.martyngerrard.co.uk 14/10/2014 18:02

A new development of 7 luxury apartments. Secure gated parking, lift and quality finishes.

O A K L E I G H PA R K S O U T H N 2 0

Alisa Lodge is a development of one and two bedroom apartments with a magnificent three bedroom penthouse. The development has been constructed to an exceptional standard and sits among the affluent surroundings of Oakleigh Park. All of the apartments overlook the beautiful landscaped gardens and most have wonderful views of London.

All enquiries via sole agent:

Show flat open every Friday, Saturday & Sunday from 10am to 4pm

Computer generated images of development exterior, penthouse kitchen/living area and master bedroom of flats 3 and 5.

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020 8446 2111

Another quality development by

15/10/2014 11:15 15:31 10/09/2014

50 years of fulfilling dreams

...for all generations

STAPLETON HALL ROAD, STROUD GREEN, N4

£1,200,000

A spacious three double bedroom (plus study) Victorian family house, located very close to St. Aidens Primary School.

THE OWNERS LOVE…

WE’VE NOTICED…

“Our spacious rooms with high ceilings, we get lots of natural light”

The property is within the Stroud Green conservation area

“The road is lovely and quiet”

There is a large loft which has potential to converted STPP

“Convenient location for St. Aidens School, Harringay Station, local shops and the W3 bus to Finsbury Park”

• 3 Double bedrooms plus study • 2 Reception rooms • Kitchen/diner • Bathroom & shower room • Energy rating: D

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

www.martyngerrard.co.uk 14/10/2014 18:02

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

15/10/2014 12:46

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GARDENVALE APPLEGROVE

Property Round Up

A stunning six bedroom house

ocated in a quiet residential area in close proximity to Belsize Park. This truly unique property has been recently refurbished throughout and comprises a tastefully presented reception room flooded with natural light through several sky lights and a paned arch window; a modern fitted kitchen leading into a contemporary dining space and lounge, expansive grass garden with patio area accessible from the dining room through glass bi-folding doors, five generously proportioned bedrooms with wood floors and four

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

PROPERTY ROUND UP.2.indd 2

smart bathrooms (three en-suite). The garden accommodates a selfcontained studio/summer house with heating and en-suite shower room. Decorated in a very quirky style, this house will please those who enjoy a touch of originality, with further benefits including offstreet parking for three cars. Glenilla Road, NW3 ÂŁ3,500 Per Week Benham & Reeves Residential Lettings, Hampstead 020 7435 9681; brlets.co.uk

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PROPERTY | NEWS

The INSIDE SCOOP of NEWS in your area Crouch Hall Road, N8 £1,999,999 Freehold This truly exquisite five-bedroom family home combines an internal blend of period and contemporary detailing. Desirably positioned on a quiet residential road on the Highgate periphery within a short stroll from the heart of Crouch End; one of London’s premier urban villages. The ground floor boasts enviable living space including fully integrated kitchen, dining room and two receptions rooms leading onto an impressive, private and secluded rear garden. Further comprising basement storage and utility, two bathrooms, guest cloakroom and additional wc, and ensuite to master bedroom. Immaculately presented throughout maintaining a host of character features including stunning feature fireplaces and elaborate staircase while incorporating a contemporary style of living. Castles, Crouch End 020 8348 5515; castles-estateagents.co.uk

GAMA's Crossfield, NW3

ISRAEL MAZIN

What are the main criteria GAMA uses when selecting new property acquisitions? We focus on unbroken, freehold, residential blocks in Prime Locations. We investigate intensely and consider all eventualities to ensure we will be in a position to add significant value before all acquisitions.

What is GAMA’s concept? GAMA is a cash funded investment company; we focus on developing and renovating high-end properties in prime locations. Our priorities are to provide an excellent service, by ensuring we act quickly, reliably and efficiently.

Where do you believe are the property hotspots at the moment? I still believe the strength is currently in prime locations in London, particularly based on foreign investors continuing to purchase in London, viewing these acquisitions as safe investments.from October to December. A final rally in the last couple of weeks of the year happens as people consider a new home for the New Year.

MINUTES with...

Founder of GAMA, 020 3603 8111; gamaestate.co.uk

Myddelton Square, EC1 £1,600,000 S.O.F.

facing garden from the first floor landing. There is a stunning reception room retaining period features, a well equipped modern kitchen and luxurious bathroom.

A beautifully presented upper maisonette with a garden over the upper levels of this period house. The flat is located on the southern corner of Myddelton Square. This fabulous spot is within very easy reach of all the facilities of Angel. This immaculate four bedroom apartment has its own front door and overlooks the church. The apartment occupies the largest proportion of the house having the top three floors. It is extremely bright and airy with access to the South

020 3657 7340; knightfrank.com

105 PROPERTY ROUND UP.2.indd 3

PRIME LOCATION.COM

SUGGESTS If you’re thinking of selling or letting your home in 2014, make sure you choose an agent that will advertise your property on PrimeLocation. The vast majority of agents (over 80%) do advertise with us and understand the importance of making sure that your property gets the exposure it deserves.

NOVEMBER 2014

14/10/2014 09:41

Completely at home in North London.

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

With over 35 years’ experience and 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

KFH.indd 1 brand adverts_September October.indd 3 KFH MASTER

13/10/2014 09:33 11:38 24/07/2014

Kings Avenue, Muswell Hill, N10 £1,850,000

Well presented five bedroom semi detached Edwardian house offering 2,934 sq ft of space arranged over three floors with 66ft rear garden and off street parking.

Muswell Hill 020 8883 0123 Email smh@kfh.co.uk

Situated in the heart of Muswell Hill, backing onto Muswell Hill bowling green and close to Fortismere Secondary School.

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• • • • • • • • •

Five double bedrooms Two reception rooms Fitted kitchen Utility room/guest WC Storage cellar Off street parking 66ft rear garden Freehold EPC rating D

11:38 13/10/2014 09:37

Redston Road, Crouch End, N8 £1,600,000 Crouch End 020 8348 8181 Email sce@kfh.co.uk

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A stunning five bedroom end of terrace Edwardian house, combining original period character with contemporary living, situated on a residential road in Crouch End.

• • • • • • • •

Five bedrooms Two bathrooms Floor to ceiling windows Secluded rear garden Own front driveway Views of Alexandra Palace Freehold EPC rating D

11:38 13/10/2014 09:38

Nightingale Lane, Crouch End, N8 Prices from ÂŁ375,000 A mixed development of new build and refurbished apartments built with great care and attention to the quality of materials used and level of finish. The specification of these homes includes as standard, contemporary kitchens with quartz worktops, a range of integrated appliances and fitted flooring throughout. Leasehold. Land and New Homes 020 8222 7200 Email newhomes@kfh.co.uk

Lodge Lane, Finchley, N12 Prices from ÂŁ354,950 An impressive new development of individual apartments located a short walk from North Finchley High Road and Woodside Park station. There are only two apartments remaining in this scheme, both with an excellent level of specification. Leasehold. Land and New Homes 020 8222 7200 Email newhomes@kfh.co.uk

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11:38 13/10/2014 09:40

Belsize Park Gardens, Belsize Park, NW3 £2,275 pcm A bright and well presented first floor, two bedroom flat in a stunning period property on a sought after Belsize Park road. Situated in close proximity to both Belsize Park and Swiss Cottage tube stations. Furnished. EPC rating E. Belsize Park 020 7483 4302 Email lbz@kfh.co.uk

Uplands Road, Crouch End, N8 £3,683 pcm A beautifully presented five bedroom, two bathroom period family house situated close to the local amenities of Crouch End Broadway and Weston Park Primary school. Unfurnished. EPC rating D. Crouch End 020 8341 1110 Email lce@kfh.co.uk

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

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11:38 13/10/2014 09:45

Milton Park, Archway, N6 £1,625 pcm An impressive two double bedroom flat set within a period conversion. The property is located only a short walk to Highgate Village and is situated between both Highgate and Archway tube stations. Furnished or unfurnished. EPC rating D. Highgate 020 8341 6666 Email lhi@kfh.co.uk

Grand Avenue, Muswell Hill, N10 £4,334 pcm A fantastic four double bedroom, two bathroom family house that has undergone refurbishment but retains many original features. Situated within the Fortismere and Tetherdown school catchment areas. Unfurnished. EPC rating E. Muswell Hill 020 8883 2340 Email lmh@kfh.co.uk

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

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11:38 13/10/2014 09:46

IN THEIR OWN WORDS

Franca Reynolds Office & Sales Manager at Tatlers, Crouch End

Photography: rebecca noonan

hopped on the Tatlers train in 2013 and got off at Crouch End. I have embraced the diversity of the area and after many years of life in estate agency, I began a new journey. Well what can I say but a big thank you to everyone who has been a part of my experience in Crouch Endâ&#x20AC;Ś I have met and worked alongside a fantastic cross section of the community. The edgy urban vibe born from a grass root and diversely creative population makes Crouch End very special. Behind every door there is a different story and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what I love about my job. Being a born and bred North London girl, I can now, with some years behind me, say that London is in my blood. Londoners should be proud of their ability to celebrate the richness of culture that has been brought to the city over the years and which has filtered out to its suburbs. I love to watch and observe, listen and contribute. Agency is a people business, which with integrity and focus will result in all concerned feeling that the best possible outcome has been achieved. The Crouch End branch has continued

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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to grow with lively Sales and Lettings departments. My team understands the importance of the local sense of community and over the past year we have been actively involved in it. On a personal level, people describe me as being straight talking; what you see is what you get. I do not compromise on values and my terrier streak does not give up the fight! As for market conditions, activity was extremely strong in the first half of the year in our principal post codes: N8, N10, N2, N4, N6 & N19. With the distractions of an amazing summer, banks being more conservative on lending and the Scottish referendum, the industry has experienced a slow down into the autumn. The frenzy could not be sustained and we are now back to a more measured market, and we in Crouch End look forward to the challenges this brings. Whether you are selling or buying, letting or renting, remember - location, location, location and where better than North London?

020 8341 4050; tatlers.co.uk

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PROPERTY | PROFILE

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NOVEMBER 2014

14/10/2014 09:48

Grand Avenue, Fortis Green, N10

£1,750,000 Freehold. Sole Agents

Woodland Rise, Muswell Hill, N10

£695,000 Share of Freehold. Sole agents

Located in one of Muswell Hill’s finest avenues is this beautifully presented five bedroom mid terraced Collins built family home affording light and airy accommodation over three floors. This fine property is being offered in very good decorative order and retains a wealth of original period features throughout; added benefits also include a fantastic John Lewis fitted kitchen/diner that leads out to a delightful and secluded 65’ rear garden. Situated within moments walk from the bustling promenades of Muswell Hill Broadway and its excellent bus services to Highgate tube (Northern Line), also within catchment of Tetherdown primary and Fortismere secondary schools. Contact our Muswell Hill Office on 020 8444 1771

Occupying the top floor of this magnificent end of terraced Edwardian residence is a truly stunning two bedroom split level converted flat which boasts a fantastic 29’8 x 13’10 dining area opening to reception room which leads out to a decked roof terrace that provides some spectacular far reaching views including Alexandra Palace. This extremely bright flat is situated within a short distance of Muswell Hill Broadway and its large selection of shops and restaurants, also close by are Highgate and Queens Woods and Highgate tube station (Northern Line). Contact our Muswell Hill Office on 020 8444 1771

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

15/10/2014 12:36

www.tatlers.co.uk

Park Road, Crouch End, N8

£39 9 ,000 Leasehold

We are pleased to bring to the market this well presented two bedroom flat which occupies the ground floor of a period property. With double glazing throughout and solid oak flooring, the contemporary detail gives the flat a light and airy feel. The main bedroom has an en-suite shower room and there is direct access to a large communal garden. The location is within a few minutes’ walk to Crouch End Broadway and a newly refurbished leisure centre is across the road. The W7 to Finsbury Park provides easy access to central London and in the opposite direction a short bus ride to Muswell Hill. The green open spaces of Priory Park and Alexandra Park are within close proximity. Contact our Crouch End Office on 020 8341 4050

Huntingdon Road, East Finchley N2

£990,000 Freehold. Joint Sole Agents

Situated on this ever popular county road is an attractive terraced four bedroom period residence. The house provides generous size rooms throughout and is arranged over three floors, benefits include a spacious kitchen diner which in turn leads onto a directly south facing rear garden. The property is presented in good decorative order throughout and is offered with no on-going chain. Ideally situated within walking distance to the abundant shops and restaurants of the High Road and within a ten minute stroll to East Finchley Tube Station (Northern Line). Contact our East Finchley Office on 020 8883 1001

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LANDMARK POSITION…

LoNg sTaNdiNg NamE you CaN RELy oN.

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

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15/10/2014 11:51

020 8348 5515

crouch.end@castles-estateagents.co.uk

www.castles-estateagents.co.uk

Crouch Hall Road, N8

GUIDE PRICE: £2,000,000 FH

A truly exquisite 5-bedroom family home combining an internal blend of period & contemporary detailing. Desirably positioned on a quiet residential road on the Highgate periphery within a short stroll from the heart of Crouch End; one of London’s premier urban villages. The ground floor boasts enviable living space including fully integrated kitchen, dining room & 2 receptions rooms leading onto an impressive, private & secluded rear garden.

Womersley Road, N8

£1,999,999 FREEHOLD

A truly exquisite, substantial 5-bedroom double fronted period family home with an understated internal blend of character and contemporary detailing. Desirably positioned on a tranquil residential road, the property will effortlessly elevate your expectations of comfort and style to meet the demands of 21st century living. A beautiful landscaped South West facing rear garden is accessed by via open planned reception/ kitchen/dining opening (via concertina doors).

12 Topsﬁeld Parade, London N8 8PR CASTLE_NXNW.indd 2

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PROPERTY | ASPIRATIONAL LIVING

Showcase

A beautiful contemporary home with an arts & crafts facade that boasts spectacular rear southerly views of the city.

his beautiful home is ideally positioned for access to Highgate Village. Hampstead Heath and Waterlow Park are within easy reach. The property is arranged over three floors with a wide entrance hallway, triple reception room opening to a kitchen/dining room and a cloakroom. There is a Master

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suite with bathroom, dressing room and south facing terrace, three further ample double bedrooms and two shower rooms. The property also offers private off street permit parking for two vehicles. The bespoke Parapan kitchen is complemented by white quartz worktops and walnut interiors by Roundhouse. High-quality Miele appliances are also installed. The kitchen opens to the terrace and a gorgeous mature landscaped south-east facing garden. Hornsey Lane N6 ÂŁ2,550,000 Freehold Prickett & Ellis, Crouch End 020 8340 8900; prickettandellis.com

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Visit our Marketing Suite and Show Apartment, 14–15 Stable Street, King’s Cross, London N1C 4AB

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www.kingscross.co.uk

13/10/2014 17:31 16:23

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PROPERTY | AGENT'S ADVICE

ANDREW FLINT

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

020 7354 3000 / colmancoyle.com

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

1.What are some of the difficulties involved with renovating an old property?

irst check the listed status of your property, as the older it is the more likely it is to be listed. If it is, depending on the proposed works, you may need to obtain listed building consent. Grants may be available from English Heritage. If you are attempting to DIY, make sure you plan the work carefully and work out how much you have to spend before you start, allowing for at least a 20% contingency fund. Once you start stripping off the outer layers (wall coverings, ceilings, flooring etc.) you are very likely to find unforeseen hidden problems that might need attention e.g. asbestos, damp and rot. Our advice is to engage the services of a professional company who can give your property the expert care and attention it deserves. At MH Costa we have over a decade of experience working with old and new properties, and therefore we have the ability to deal with any surprises that renovation might involve.

2. Are new builds better investments than older properties?

rom previous experiences, you can pick up a bargain with a new build by buying your property off plan. However it can have some risks. The main upside though is the value of the property could begin to rise as the project nears completion so, by getting in before it has completed you can potentially make a profit. One of the main attractions of purchasing a new build is that everything is new and free from cosmetic work, which avoids further payments after purchase, but the increase is based around a short time period. Research shows that period properties usually see increases in price four times higher than new builds in the same area. Older period properties, on the other hand, can be riddled with hidden issues. Getting a thorough survey done before you buy can help you to spot potential costly issues. One of the easiest ways to get a great return on your investment property is to add value to the home by a loft you can convert, or even an extension you can build, this is where period properties can be a stronger long term investment than a new build.

Spotlight on NW3 Average asking price £2,567,378

Average asking rents £3,752 pcm

Average property value £1,328,354

I have found a property to buy but the seller hasn’t found a property to buy himself. I am keen to secure the property and I am reluctant to wait for him to secure a purchase particularly in such a buoyant market. What would you recommend?

can understand your concern. If the seller takes weeks to find something suitable it could leave you exposed in the event there are problems further up the chain or the seller simply changes his mind. The only way to achieve absolute security is to exchange contracts. My advice would be to suggest to the seller that exchange takes place as soon as possible but instead of completing in a standard timescale of 2 to 4 weeks after exchange, to have a delayed completion with a longstop date of 6 months. The seller will hopefully find something to buy within this period and the completion date could be brought forward to a date that is mutually acceptable to all parties in the chain. This would give you the security you require but from the seller’s perspective he would need to complete and vacate the property by no later than the longstop date no matter what and this proposition may not be appealing. Also, you would need to be sure that your mortgage offer (if you need one) is still going to be valid at the time of completion. Most mortgage offers are valid for up to 3 to 6 months and if yours is valid for 3 months you may need to check with the lender that you will be able to obtain an extension, which might be difficult to do in a more restrictive mortgage market. Even if your mortgage offer is valid for 6 months, this may still need extending. To avoid any issues with the validity of the mortgage, it might be better to agree a 3 month longstop but this will mean that the seller will have to get his skates on if he wants to try and find somewhere to buy and exchange and complete within this period.

Contact property partner Andrew Flint with no obligation on (0)20 7354 3000 or email andrew.flint@colmancoyle.com

Data provided by CONTACT

1. MANUEL COSTA

Managing Director at MH Costa Construction Ltd 020 8450 7341; mhcosta.com ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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2. CLAIRE MURRAY

Sales Manager at Edmund Cude, Camden 020 7482 8920; edmundcude.com

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

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MH Costa construction is a privately owned, London based construction company that is re-defining the art of quality renovations and craftsmanship in the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s property industry. Proudly demonstrating more than 25 years of industry success in a highly competitive and dynamic arena, MH Costa commands an impressive portfolio of exquisitely regenerated and refurbished properties. For more information call +44 (0) 208 450 7341, email info@mhcosta.com or vistit our website www.mhcosta.com

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PROPERTY | FOUR CORNERS

KFH

CORNERS OF NORTH LONDON B E LS I Z E P A RK . H I G H G A T E . W E S T H A M P S T E A D . S T J O H N ’ S W O O D

BELSIZE PARK says:

HIGHGATE says:

says:

WEST HAMPSTEAD

ST JOHN’S WOOD says:

JAMIE GAWTHROP

MATTHEW SMITH

JAMES RIPP

MARK NEVIN

Sales Manager Kinleigh Folkard & Hayward’s Belsize Park branch

Sales Manager Kinleigh Folkard & Hayward’s Highgate branch

estled between Hampstead and Primrose Hill, Belsize Park was once thought of as the ‘poorer cousin’ of these two London heavyweights. However, this quaint little area has greatly benefited from access to both neighbours and offers better value for money. In Hampstead and Primrose Hill the average pound per square foot costs for a property are around £1,400 and £1,350 respectively, whereas in Belsize Park the average cost is around £1,125 per sq ft. In recent years its popularity has swelled and subsequently so have its property prices. Residents love the feeling of exclusivity, tree lined roads, grand period conversions, boutique coffee shops and impressive transport links - Northern Line and Jubilee Line – offering excellent links into the city and Canary Wharf. As such, Belsize Park’s resident demographic includes wealthy city types, young professionals and Buyto-Let investors.

aving been popular for generations, Highgate still remains one of North London’s property hot spots. The area has seen an almost 20% increase in prices over the past 12 months. Highgate offers a number of key factors which contribute to its desirability - the schools are excellent and plentiful, as are the transport links. What sets Highgate apart most however is its village, which has a unique atmosphere and abundance of open spaces. With Hampstead Heath to the West, Waterlow Park to the South and Highgate and Queens Woods to the North, residents are well served with green spaces. For anyone who would prefer not to share their little patch of green with anyone else – there is good news. Most family houses in Highgate have wellproportioned gardens and there are many exceptional garden flats – however buyers can expect to pay a premium for a private garden, which on average will sell for 15% more than a similar flat without.

020 7483 4302

020 8341 6666

Sales Manager Kinleigh Folkard & Hayward’s West Hampstead branch

Sales Manager Kinleigh Folkard & Hayward’s St John’s Wood branch

est Hampstead has always held its popularity due to the combination of Victorian architecture and the village-like surroundings, coupled with exceptional transport links. West Hampstead offers residents many travel links into the City and central London including numerous bus routes, London Underground (Jubilee Line), Silverlink Metro and Thameslink stations, which connect with St Pancras, South London and Brighton. The area’s great community feel is also enhanced by a good variety of shops and a local weekend farmer’s market located in and around the very popular West End Lane high street. Victorian architecture and period homes dominate West Hampstead. A one bedroom converted flat typically costs between £400,000 and £550,000, while a two or three bedroom property tends to range from £550,000 to £1,250,000 on average.

t John’s Wood is one of London’s most affluent and desirable postcodes and the area has become the very definition of suburban living. Located within easy reach of busy central London, it is also only a stone’s throw from Regents Park and Primrose Hill. This perfect blend attracts buyers from all walks of life. We deal with many British based professionals who are attracted to the superb transport links, foreign multi-millionaires who lived in the area for decades as well as a smattering of celebrities. Earlier this year we felt the effects of the proposed Capital Gains Tax (CGT) legislation for non-residents. This combined with the political turbulence in the Middle East and Russia, there appeared to be reticence among foreign buyers. Nevertheless, it seems to have only affected short term confidence, as we saw the market come roaring back into action in September with strong interest from both foreign and domestic buyers.

020 7328 2238

020 7586 8001

For more information visit www.kfh.co.uk ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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Smart knows what the neighbours paid. See over 19 million sold prices

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Offices throughout London

Camden High Street, NW1

£359,950

Finchley Road, NW3

Asking Price: £2,100,000

A contemporary one double bedroom apartment set on the first floor of this newly refurbished block ideally located to Camden Town tube station. Offered on a chain free basis with a lease in excess of 100 years. EPC = D

A rare opportunity to obtain this semi detached house which is currently designed to cater for seven self contained studios and a one bedroom apartment for rentals. Located on Finchley Road which offers many shops & restaurants.

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

Finchley Road, NW3

North End Road, NW11

£500,000

£1,700,000

Cash Purchasers Only. Located in a smart block with lift this two bedroom apartment set over two floors offers naturally bright living space and a private balcony offering incredible views of London. Leasehold 102 years remaining.

A rare opportunity to obtain this semi-detached house which is currently designed to cater for seven self-contained room rentals. Located 0.2 miles from Golders Green tube station and bus depot.

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

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Camden High Street, NW1

Guide Price £900,000

A contemporary two double bedroom two bathroom/shower room apartment set on the third floor of this newly refurbished block ideally located opposite Camden Town tube station. This stylish property features high ceilings, modern shower room and kitchen. Ideally situated in the heart of Camden Town next to great transport links and local amenities. Leasehold 248 years remaining. EPC= B

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

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Belsize Park

ÂŁ3,500 pw Furn/Unfurnished

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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

Colindale

£225 pw Furnished

Highbury

£375 pw Furnished

Dartmouth Park

Hampstead

£575 pw Furnished

£850 pw Unfurnished

Dubai | Hong Kong | India | Malaysia | Singapore

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FIRST RELEASE FOR CAMDEN RESIDENTS AND KEY WORKERS

SALES RELEASE FROM: 9TH OCT - 31ST OCT OPEN: 10AM - 6PM MON - SAT AT: DOG EARED STUDIOS, 28 FIELD ST, LONDON, WC1X 9DA

Camden residents and key workers have an exclusive one month opportunity to reserve an apartment within the exciting redevelopment of Maiden Lane NW1, bringing 273 new homes, beautiful public spaces and improved facilities.

FOR YOUR INVITATION TO THE SALES RELEASE CALL NOW 020 3320 8220 OR REGISTER AT XYAPARTMENTS.COM

Phase 1 prices starting from £450,000* Shared ownership available in later phases. Delivered by Camden’s Community Investment Programme

*Prices correct at time of going to press. CGI of XY exterior.

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