NORTH BY NORTHWEST SEPTEMBER 2015

contents Sept e mbe r 2015

64 07 EDITOR’S LETTER c u lt u r e

10 WHAT’S ON

Diary dates for September

12

18

BEAR’S URBAN WILDERNESS We sit down with adventurer, explorer and all-round adrenaline seeker, Bear Grylls

fa s h i o n

FASHION CONFIDENTIAL

This month’s hottest trends and products

18

20 THE AUTUMN EDIT

Key looks for the transitional period

34 WARDROBE MASTER

Senior Style Editor at Esquire, Teo van den Broeke, talks brands you need to know

49 KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL

49

55 REVIEW: L’ANIMA

78 LONDON DESIGN WEEK

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

38 BEAUTY CONFIDENTIAL Best beauty buys of the month

40 SHADES OF PALE

Nudes and pinks for fresh faced beauty

Food & Drink

Tasty happenings from the local area and wine pairings by Jane Parkinson We dine at the soulful Italian restaurant L’Anima

t r av e l

64 CASTLES IN THE AIR Discover the dreamy Dordogne

COVERS

Malene Birger, Fa l l / Wi n te r 2 0 1 5

b y m a l e n e b i r ge r.c o m

69 UK GETAWAY: SAFARI

Pippa Vosper finds an African adventure in rural Kent

3 C&A_SEP15_Contents.indd 3

interiors

An edit of what to see at LDF 2015

82 TREASURE SEEKER

We meet Matt Goss, the man behind Shoreditch antiques and interior shop Pure White Lines

PROPERTY

95 PROPERTY NEWS

Nigel Lewis, and news and views on the area

SEPTEMBER 2015

18/08/2015 16:41

GET INSPIRED OUR NEW 2016 CATALOGUE IS OUT NOW!

BoConcept Finchley Road The O2 Centre, 255 Finchley Road London NW3 6LU

BO_CONCEPT.indd 1

T 0207 794 8049

fr_london@boconcept.co.uk

17/08/2015 12:39

B

SIT VI

K A HOM E OO

FRE RIOR E SER DESIG N VICE

ON

LI

N

E

OR

R

E

INTE

I N S TO

It’s much more than just a catalogue...

It’s 164 pages of pure inspiration and a motivation to dig deeper into BoConcept’s universe.

Pick up your free copy now at your nearest BoConcept store or order at boconcept.co.uk

BO_CONCEPT.indd 2

17/08/2015 12:39

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

LOUISE PARKER.indd 2

11/08/2015 15:23

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR ROMY VAN DEN BROEKE SENIOR EDITORIAL ASSISTANT ELIZABETH HUTTON EDITORIAL ASSISTANT STEPHANIE KING CONTRIBUTING FASHION EDITOR CHARLOTTE ADSETT CONTRIBUTING INTERIORS EDITOR JESSICA KLINGELFUSS MEN’S EDITOR TEO VAN DEN BROEKE WINE COLUMNIST JANE PARKINSON KID’S EDITOR HELEN BARON EDUCATION EDITOR AMANDA CONSTANCE EDITORIAL INTERN HANNAH SARGEANT, JENNY COOK SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER KRISTIAN BRUMBY LIFESTYLE EXECUTIVE JENNI RAWSTHORNE PROPERTY ACCOUNTS DIRECTOR TAMSIN LUCK PROPERTY DIRECTOR ANDY ELMER ART DIRECTOR RAY SEARLE SENIOR DESIGNER PHIL COUZENS MIDWEIGHT DESIGNER GEMMA ISTEED, EKREM YILMAZ JUNIOR DESIGNER REBECCA NOONAN PRODUCTION MANAGER STEWART HYDE FINANCIAL CONTROLLER AYSHA HABIBI CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER ALEXANDRA HVID PA TO THE DIRECTORS MARIANNE MCFADDEN DIRECTORS ALEXANDRA HUNTER MANAGING DIRECTOR SHERIF SHALTOUT For editorial enquiries please email: romy@zest-media.com For advertising enquiries please call 020 7704 0588 or email: advertising@zest-media.com Subscriptions are available simply by emailing marianne@zest-media.com You can receive an online subscription for FREE or a postal subscriptions for 12 months, £30 respectively (to cover postage and packaging). Please email us with your preferred option and details.

Part of the

GROUP

First Floor, 197 City Road, Old Street, London EC1 1JN T: 020 7704 0588 F: 020 7900 3020 WWW.ZEST-MEDIA.COM

Zest Media Publications Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Zest Media Publications Ltd. take no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters.

All rights reserved.

Fo l l ow Us O n T wi t t e r @ABSOLUTELY_MAGS Fa c e b o o k ‘ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES’

EDITOR’S letter

N

o matter how old I get and how distant my teenage years begin to feel, I have never been able to shake off the idea of September as the start of the year.

Back to school, back to university, the end of summer – it’s the perfect time to make a change, whether it be your wardrobe, your address or your diet. Luckily, we have suggestions for all of these in our brand new September issue.

If it’s a sartorial overhaul you’re looking for, take a look at this month’s fashion shoot – ‘The Autumn Edit’ – on page 20, to make sure you stand out from the London Fashion Week crowd. Want perfect make-up to match? Turn to page 41 to discover our round-up of the most beautiful pale shades for fall. Those wanting to give their home a makeover rather than their wardrobe should turn to page 82 to discover Pure White Lines, an interiors treasure trove nestled in the heart of Shoreditch.

7 C&A_Aug15_EDS_LETTER.indd 7

Not fussed by fashion week? Head to page 78 where I’ve put together an edit of what to see at this year’s London Design Festival.

If you’ve ever wondered whether a ‘free-from’ diet is for you, now is the time to find out. We spoke to five foodie experts on page 50, from Yes Chef Tess Ward to Ella Woodward of Deliciously Ella. Finally, anyone wanting to leave the city behind and go totally off-grid can find no better inspiration than our lead interviewee Bear Grylls. Find out how the urban jungle compares to, well, the actual jungle on page 12.

I hope you enjoy the issue. ◆

Romy van den Broeke Editorial Director @ohnohereisro

SEPTEMBER 2015

18/08/2015 12:28

NEW ARTIST FAIR.indd 1

14/07/2015 09:52

p. 10

INTERVIEW: BEAR GYRLLS

p.12

© ROBIN DAY

> WHAT'S ON THIS SEPTEMBER

9 C&A_Sept15_Culture_Opener.indd 9

SEPTEMBER 2015

18/08/2015 12:31

XXXXXXXX / XXXXXXXXX

CLOSET TREASURES

RING BY TOMASZ DONOCIK

7- 8 Se p t e m b e r C hel s e a To wn Ha ll ll proceeds from this designer sale will A go to the Amy Winehouse Foundation, which works to educate and support young people suffering from drug and alcohol abuse, so buy safe in the knowledge that your money is being put to good use. u King’s Road, SW3; amywinehousefoundation.org

© FRANÇOISE NIELLY

GOLDSMITHS’ FAIR

CREDITORS

Fro m 2 2 Se p t e m b e r G o l ds m i ths ’ Ha ll o you love jewellery? We do. Which D is why we always look forward to this internationally acclaimed fair.

Showcasing exceptional pieces from independent British designers and craftsmen, each ornament is entirely unique. u Foster Lane, EC2V; goldsmithsfair.co.uk

9-19 September Young Vic

Directed by the Genesis Future Directors Award winner, Rikki Henry, this is a powerful portrayal of love and follows the insecure Adolph, as he and his new friend Gustav plot to confront Adolph’s wife, Tekla. The truth violently exposes the jealousy and deception that lie behind love.

66 The Cut, SE1;

youngvic.org

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

C&A_SEP15_Whats_On_.indd 10

TERRARIUM WORKSHOP

13 Se p t e m b e r FA RM :s ho p eld in the hidden tropical oasis that is H Farm: Shop, this workshop (run by the visionary duo behind product design brand Ro-Co) is your opportunity to make your very own terrarium. Choose your cacti and get planting! u 20 Dalston Lane, E8; ro-co.uk

10 18/08/2015 12:42

ARTS & CULTURE / TALKING TOPICS must see

ROBIN DAY: WORKS IN WOOD

1 9 - 2 7 Se p t e m b e r Vi c to r i a & Al b e r t M u s e u m o mark the centernary T of Robin Day’s birth – who was one of Britain’s most significant furniture designers – the V&A have curated an exhibit to coincide with the London Design Festival.

Focusing on his pioneering post-war designs, this celebrates simple but brilliant British design. An LDF must-see. ◆

Spiegeltent

londondesignfestival.com

1 0 -20 S e p te m b e r C anada S q u a re Pa rk

Want to be entertained? At Spiegeltent Canary Wharf you will be, with a packed programme that includes comedy, music, dance, cabaret, acrobatics and theatre. Boasting events specifically designed for children – including a baby rave and kids comedy from The Horne Section – this festival promises to be the perfect day out for everyone.

4- 6 Se pte m be r O ld T ruman B re we r y orget collecting artwork you know nothing F about; this fair exhibits the work of over 100 artists you can buy directly from and discover the inspiration and emotion behind the canvas. From portraits and landscapes to photographs and prints, the variety of media available for purchase at this event is impressive. ◆ 91 Brick Lane, E1; newartistfair.com

© LAURENCE POOLE

NEW ARTIST FAIR

Canary Wharf, E14; canarywharf.com

PLAY OF THE MONTH

ROARING TRADE F ro m 23 S e p t e m b e r Park T h e atre

his is the tale of four bond traders, living and working in the City of London. Powerful, ambitious and seriously egotistical, they put their limits to the test while running wild. Living by the motto, "Trouble is an opportunity. Trouble gets you places," they use playground tactics to compete against one another. Written by Steve Thompson, the man behind Dr Who and Sherlock, this black comedy exposes the

T

11 C&A_SEP15_Whats_On_.indd 11

ruthless, and often immoral, nature of the banking industry. Through the lives of “top dog” Donny, calculating and sexual Jess, well-bred Cambridge graduate Spoon and seasoned trader-cum-family man PJ, we see the frantic struggle that is survival in the City. l Clifton Terrace, N4; parktheatre.co.uk

SEPTEMBER 2015

18/08/2015 12:42

XXXXXX / XXXXXXX

BEAR’S Urban Wilder ne ss

He’s been known to drink his own urine, scoff scorpions and sleep in a carcass.

But Bear Grylls is also a family man I n t e r v i e w C A M I L L A D AV I E S

S

ometimes a TV star’s tough guy image seeps into the public consciousness.

But former SAS man Bear Grylls, the face of Mission Survive, The Island and Escape From Hell, can’t help but give off the niceguy vibe. According to Bear, it’s not about the brawn: anyone with their wits about them can become a survivor. “Knowledge is such an important tool for survival, but a real key to it is about heart, the determination to keep going despite the pain. And that’s in all of us, it’s how we’re made,” he says.

Bear himself learnt his survival instincts from an early age, exploring at weekends with his dad before joining the Scouts – today his official title is Chief Scout – and then the military. A back injury forced him to leave the army but after an impressively fast recovery, by the age of 23 he had succeeded in his goal of climbing Mount Everest, making him the youngest Brit to do so. “Survival is in us all, it takes a bit of scratching beneath the surface to find. And also practice.

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

Chis_Sept15_Bear_Grylls.indd 12

SURVIVAL is in all of is – it JUST TAKES

a bit of scratching

BENEATH THE SURFACE to find

The more you get used to hardships and discomfort the better you become at coping with it. It’s definitely in everyone, it’s just about grit and heart.”

Of course, some people are more prone to the adventure bug than others.

It seems Bear can’t stay still for long, and even at home he isn’t quite on solid ground, choosing to live on a barge along the Thames. “The houseboat is a great way of being in London,” he says. “You don’t necessarily feel like you are stuck in the middle of a big city and yeah, I love it. It’s a really good community, great views…”

The idea of Bear in a semi-detached redbrick doesn’t quite compute, anyway.

His waterside home is his rest spot to recover from his stays in the wild. “We originally bought it when I was leaving the army and I got married. We were pretty broke and it was a fun way of us being in London.” Even now, three children on, the couple show no signs of jumping ship. “Many years later, we still don’t feel any temptation to go and get a big house in London. We love it, it is a wonderful thing in our lives and we’ll always love it.” If the family want to get somewhere quickly, their mode of transport sure beats the tube. “We have a little speed boat tied to the side and it’s a great way to be in London.”

Bear may be a London boy, but he also owns St Tudwal's, a Welsh island, just off the South Caernarvonshire coast – which many would consider an unusual holiday home. He also spends time in the heart of TV world, Los Angeles. “But when we’re in London, we love it,” he says firmly. “We try to film during term time when the boys are at school… I try to be pretty disciplined about taking days off when they are at home, saying no to all the other fluff.”

12 18/08/2015 12:43

ARTS & CULTURE / INTERVIEW PICTURS @DISCOVERY

Chis_Sept15_Bear_Grylls.indd 13

18/08/2015 12:43

ARTS & CULTURE / INTERVIEW PICTURS @DISCOVERY

If we were just

RECKLESS IN THE stupid sense WE WOULDN’T STILL BE HERE

PICTURS @DISCOVERY

Bear may crave time at home, but he’s aware that his 9-5 is very different to most Londoners’ jobs. “It’s never felt like a job. I love it, I work with my best friends, I get to travel the world, so I feel super lucky,” Bear grins. “I’ll probably pick up a few more scars and a few more aches and pains along the way but I’ll try and keep on going for as long as I can.”

Tenacity is an important skill in Bear’s line of work, but he admits there have been times where he’s worried about where an adventure will be leading him. He says that the goal of any show he presents is always getting home in one piece. “There has been a tonne [of accidents], from parachute failures to being caught in rapids, chased by sharks

and crocodiles... but again I try to focus on the good times, the times it worked out. I always say to the crew that you only get it wrong once. If there is doubt, then there is no doubt, stop and we’ll reassess, no ego, we’ll find another way round it.

It’s actually about getting it right rather than wrong.”

He knows better than to be reckless – whether it’s swimming too close to crocodiles or simply biting the head off a tick. “Because we film so much of it, we are pretty smart as a team about managing risk and we’ve all learned the thing about no egos and bravado when we film. We make quiet, smart good

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

Chis_Sept15_Bear_Grylls.indd 14

decisions, but once we decide on something we really go for it and throw ourselves into it.”

Of course, occupational hazards do come with the job - otherwise Joe Public would be harpooning his dinner and frying beetles for an afternoon snack.

“There is a tinge of recklessness that the wild demands, but I think the skill is knowing how to use that and when to use it,” Bear says. “But essentially, if we were just reckless in the stupid sense we wouldn’t still be here. It’s reckless in the sense that it does demand a little bravery pill to do something, but that is a kind of recklessness that is healthy. But as the crew say, we used to be 100% reckless and now we’re 70% reckless, so that is good progress.”

Bear’s survival tips spread far and wide; from what to eat when you’re trapped in the wild to how to create a sleeping bag out of a dead animal and so forth. For urbanites in the capital however, perhaps his best life lesson is one that applies on a day to day level: to never give up. “That is at the heart of a great survivor… Everything else can be learned but the real heart of great survival, whether it’s in the jungle or everyday life, is to hang on in there.” u Bear Grylls has just launched the Bear Grylls Survival Race: an event designed to empower people to test and extend their adventure fitness. The inaugural BG Survival Races will take place in London, October 3-4, 2015. beargryllssurvivalrace.com

14 18/08/2015 12:44

Kitchen dreams are coming true...

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

Concept kitchens_2_2014.indd 2

15/06/2015 10:51

Clerkenwell Vintage_Full Page.indd 1

13/08/2015 15:39

> FASHION CONFIDENTIAL

p. 18

THE AUTUMN EDIT

p.20

PRETTY IN PINK

p. 27

WARDROBE MASTER

p.34

MADE TO MEASURE Malene Birger’s Autumn Winter 2015 collection takes inspiration from classic men’s clothing with tailored tuxedo shirts and two-piece suits that all tick the masculine suiting trend. bymalenebirger.com

17 CH_Fashion_Opener_SEP.indd 17

SEPTEMBER 2015

18/08/2015 12:48

st y l e C e n t r a l

Midi dresses, denim skirts and tassel sandals top this month’s must-have list Wo r d s c h a r l o t t e a d s e t t

FASHION FAIR Wo r d s s t e p h a n i e k i n g hile the fashion world’s creativity and originality sees no bounds, past trends will always return to the fashion fore.

Current day designers take inspiration from the past, with 2015 seeing an explosion of lines referencing the 70s and 80s. While modern brands often rehash classic trends, sometimes it’s better to look for authentic pieces instead. Clerkenwell Vintage Fashion Fair is your portal to the past. The Vintage Collections is a bi-annual event giving attendees exclusive access to quality vintage clothing and authentic designer items from over 50 traders. Under the art nouveau roof of Old Finsbury Town Hall, the cherry-picked stall owners unveil their eclectic mix of

W

A MECCA for VINTAGE FASHION womenswear and menswear spanning the 1800s1980s, from elite luxury labels including Chanel, Dior, Yves Saint Laurent, Jean Paul Gaultier and Vivienne Westwood. On top of this, the Fair’s own personal shoppers and style experts can assist in discovering hidden gems, while the on-site alterations service can tailor these rare finds for a truly one-off piece. Since 2009 this mecca for vintage fashion has been an essential part of London Fashion Week, and less than a week before SS16 collections are unveiled it will return to London’s design district. Kitted out with a tearoom, beauty salon and florist, as well as live music, this is the ideal place to seek style inspiration. So inject some old into your wardrobe for a fresh take this autumn. u

Rock the Kasbah Etro

This season sees the fashion world’s love affair with the luxe bohemian trend continue, as Kate Moss poses for Etro’s AW15 campaign. The opulent collection features paisley printed silk pyjama sets, two-piece suits, mohair coats and beaded dresses. etro.com

● C L E R K E N W E L L V I N TAG E FA S H I O N FA I R 13 September, Rosebery Avenue, EC1R; clerkenwellvintagefashionfair.co.uk

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

CHIS_SEP15_Fashion_Confidential.indd 18

18 18/08/2015 12:54

FASHION / NOTES

6

SHAKE IT OFF Alexander White

of the best

editor’s

A new name to watch this season is rising shoe designer Alexander White. An alumnus from Cordwainers College, White set up his eponymous label last year and offers a covetable line of timeless styles with a modern twist. We adore these 'Cleo' tassel sandals £450; alexanderwhitelondon.com

PICK

MIDI DRESSES The midi length dress is the perfect transitional piece

PRECIOUS METAL

02

Maria Black Fine Jewelr y

Maria Black has fast become the jewellery designer du jour with celebrities such as Rita Ora and Rihanna championing her work. Known for her minimalist precious metal pieces, Maria’s rings and earrings are intended to be interchangeable: wear yours stacked, mismatched or solo. ‘Fay Wray’ 18ct Gold Diamond Ring, £960; maria-black.com

01

03

FIND YOUR FEET Superga

Since Suki Waterhouse designed her own range of trainers last year, Italian footwear brand Superga has become a fashion staple. Be it classic white sneakers or patterned flatform kicks, with stores popping up all over London (the most recent opened up in Notting Hill just a couple of months ago) you can get your Superga fix easily.

105B Commercial Street, E1; superga.com

04

06

THE ART OF THE SCARF Liberty

Arthur Lasenby Liberty first opened his store in 1875, and from then on ‘Liberty’ has become synonymous with scarves. Delving into the rich and historical archive, the Liberty London design team has re-worked classic floral prints to create an abstract collection celebrating the iconic emporium’s 140th birthday.

Scarves from £195-£525; in-store and at liberty.co.uk

19 CHIS_SEP15_Fashion_Confidential.indd 19

05

01. MARNI Crepe dress £1,010; net-a-porter.com 02. JONATHAN SAUNDERS Cotton shirtdress £675; matchesfashion.com 03. VALENTINO Silk & lace dress £5,205; mytheresa.com 04. VILSHENKO Silk dress £1,100; avenue32.com 05. MASSCOB Silk dress £285; matchesfashion.com 06. SELF PORTRAIT Woven dress £260; self-portrait-studio.com

SEPTEMBER 2015

18/08/2015 12:55

AUTUM Here are the new season’s key hero pieces - guaranteed to reset your wardrobe to AW15 Photography Hanna Hillier Styling charlotte adsett

SEP15_FashionShoot.indd 20

18/08/2015 12:56

Once considered prim and outdated, the pussy bow blouse is now top of the fashion chartS Silk blouse, £635; Chloé at Harvey Nichols Silk wool trousers, £970; Emilia Wickstead at Harvey Nichols Leather ‘Coco Flamingo’ court shoes, £385; Sophia Webster Gold plated rings from £73; Maria Black

UMN SEP15_FashionShoot.indd 21

18/08/2015 12:56

The luxe-hippie trend continues to dominate − embroidered pieces teamed with tailored separates will give a modern edge Wool embroidered ‘Erin’ blouse, £445; Vilshenko at Fenwick Maxi skirt, £385; Vanessa Steward at Fenwick Gold plated ‘Love invader’ bracelet, £70; Maria Francesca Pepe Gold plated ring, £73; Maria Black Leather ‘Jetta’ bootie, £595; Sophia Webster

SEP15_FashionShoot.indd 22

18/08/2015 12:56

The ubiquitous denim shirt dress of the summer has had an AW15 embellishment update Gemstone denim shirt dress, ÂŁ459; Sonia by Sonia Rykiel at Fenwick

SEP15_FashionShoot.indd 23

18/08/2015 12:57

Wear yours with a ribbed roll neck sweater and flat loafers for a chic 60’s look Cat-embroidered shift dress, £725; Victoria, Victoria Beckham at Harvey Nichols Roll neck, £590; Stella McCartney at Harvey Nichols Python loafers, £215; Gerard Darrel

SEP15_FashionShoot.indd 24

18/08/2015 15:50

1980’s sharp power tailoring had a big impact on the runways − do keep everything else simple Dress, £1260; Adam Lippes at Harvey Nichols Gold plated ‘Arrow’ earrings, £125 and gold plated rings from £73; all Maria Black Gold plated ‘Love invader’ bracelet, £70; Maria Francesca Pepe

PHOTOGRAPHY Hanna Hillier FASHION EDITOR Charlotte Adsett MODEL Jaz Wasson at Next Models MAKE-UP Andrea Chiu using M.A.C cosmetics HAIR Roger Cho using Wonderful hair extensions STOCKISTS alexanderwhitelondon.co.uk gerarddarel.com fenwick.co.uk harverynichols.com maria-black.com mfpepe.com sophiawebster.com

SEP15_FashionShoot.indd 25

18/08/2015 13:33

SWEETPEA.indd 1

13/08/2015 17:03

FASHION / TRENDS ILLESTEVA

CHANEL RESORT 2016

‘Leonard’ mirrored sunglassed, £140; Illesteva.com

GUCCI

CARVEN

Silk blouse, £650; mytheresa.com

Wool coat, £590; theshopatthebluebird.com

EMILIO PUCCI

EMILIO DE LA MORENA

Suede maxi skirt, £1,760; matchesfashion.com

Silk dress, £635; matchesfashion.com

CHARLOTTE OLYMPIA ‘Christine’ suede shoes, £545; charlotteolympia.com

FENDI

PRETTY IN PINK

Pastel, pepto, blush, bubblegum and fushia…. Pink is standout colour for the new season B y charlot te adset t

Embellished leather backpack, £1,560; mytheresa.com

MARIA FRANCESCA PEPE Metal and diamante cuff, £195; mfpepe.com

27 FASHION PRODUCTS_SEPT.indd 27

CHLOÉ

‘Drew’ leather shoulder bag, £1,050; net-a-porter.com

LANVIN

Patent belt £399; far fetch.com

GIANVITO ROSSI

Suede ankle boots, £590; mytheresa.com

SEPTEMBER 2015

18/08/2015 13:29

30th anniversary

Winter15 35 CAMDEN PASSAGE LONDON N1 8EA t 02077040043 162 REGENTS PARK RD LONDON NW1 8XN t 02077222478 WWW.SPICESHU.CO.UK

SPICE.indd 1

13/08/2015 16:01

FASHION / AUTUMN EDIT

THE AW15 TRENDS

Jump start your autumn look with our trend guide and the game-changing pieces your wardrobe needs now

VALENTINO

VICTORIA BECKHAM BARBARA CASASOLA

MONO MAGIC

Geometric prints and simple contrasts: black and white is the colour combination that continues to dominate this Fall.

Choose architectural prints for maximum style points, where clean lines and sharp silhouettes keep the look modern.

Wo r d s C h a r l o t t e A d s e t t VALENTINO

RED

A-Line Midi Skirt, £1,305; matchesfashion.com

MISSONI

From Dior to Hermès, Fendi to Ferragamo, almost every designer worked the hot hue head to foot. The shade of danger but also of passion will ensure you stand out in a crowd.

Choose one statement piece.

EMILIA WICKSTEAD

MATTHEW WILLIAMSON

GUCCI

Ruffled Silk-Georgette Dress, £2,870; net-a-porter.com

BURBERRY PRORSUM

REBECCA TAYLOR

Silk Chiffon Maxi Dress, £450; matchesfashion.com

LOEWE

Lamè Dress, £2,125; brownsfashion.com

HERMÈS OSMAN

HERMÈS

ELECTRIC EIGHTIES

Flashy and OTT, the decade that style forgot is back with a bang this season. Join in on the revival early and channel your inner Alexis Colby with power shoulders, lamè and lashings of jewel coloured sequins.

29 C&A_SEP15_W15 TREND ROUND UP.indd 29

VERSACE

CHRISTOPHER KANE

WINTER BOHO

Those flares and printed peasant maxi dress you just bought? Wise buys, as the boho trend shows no sign of going anywhere. Add a faux fur gilet or a fringed poncho, plus lace up high heeled boots for when the temperature drops.

GUCCI

SEPTEMBER 2015

18/08/2015 16:08

PAULIE.indd 1

AMY WINEHOUSE_HP.indd 1

_ADVERT PLACEMENTS_AUG.indd 1

17/08/2015 14:08

12/08/2015 10:53

18/08/2015 15:36

FASHION / AUTUMN EDIT JONATHAN SAUNDERS

LOUIS VUITTON

SUITS YOU

It’s time to man up. If you want to get ahead of the fashion pack this season, get a trouser suit and a long length coat. The suit exits the office and relaxes into daytime when teamed with loafers. Or, dress it up with sky-high heels.

KENZO

DKNY

GOTHIC ROMANCE

Victoriana and a gothic mood combine to create a darkly decadent theme this autumn. A high-neck pie-crust collar with lots of ruffles and a billowing sleeve is key. Add sheer black lace, velvet, intricate embellishment, plus a dark purple lip to complete the look.

GIVENCHY

Crepe Jacket, £1,710, Trousers, £770; brownsfashion.com

FAITH CONNEXION

Silk-crepe Ruffle Blouse, £570; net-a-porter.com MATTHEW WILLIAMSON

DIOR GIORGIO ARMANI

GUCCI

SALVATORE FERRAGAMO

GILES

Cashmere Coat, £2,795; mytheresa.com

JONATHAN SAUNDERS

MATTHEW WILLIAMSON

Merino Wool Sweater, £495; avenue32.com

GEEK CHIC

GUCCI

1960s Mods were a big influence for AW15, as designers sent girls down the catwalk in a mish-mash of bold Op-art prints, leopard with a dash of dogtooth. Tight knit sweaters were teamed with the sharpest of mini skirts and Mary-Jane shoes.

LADYLIKE PRINCESS

ALBERTA FERRETTI

GILES

ALEXANDER MCQUEEN

31 C&A_SEP15_W15 TREND ROUND UP.indd 31

The feminine form was gloriously celebrated this season, with a young Marilyn Monroe as the main muse for MaxMara. The 1950s silhouette created with waist-cinching belts was seen everywhere. Pink was the colour that ruled the catwalk alongside pretty pastels and classic camel tones.

SEPTEMBER 2015

18/08/2015 16:08

SPICE Spice are having a double celebration this year: the opening of their new shop in Camden Passage and also their 30th year in business! This once small family enterprise is now recognised as one of the leading shoe shops in the UK. Shop the hottest AW15 trends there now, including shoes from C.Doux, See by Chloe and Audley. 35 Camden Passage, N1, 020 7704 0043; spiceshu.co.uk

Fashion Favourites

Absolutely recommends the best local fashion boutiques and jewellers to have you looking fabulous this season

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

C&A_September15_Sales_Feature.indd 32

THE MERCANTILE Mercantile curates a unique selection of over 50 local and global brands. Slick Danish fashion sits alongside handmade soaps from Surrey and Balinese fairtrade jewellery. Ever-evolving, there is always something new to discover in store. Browse the boutique's website for new arrivals or pop into the store to soak up the relaxed, vintage vibes.

17 Lamb Street, E1, 020 7377 8926; themercantilelondon.com

32 18/08/2015 13:43

ABSOLUTELY / PROMOTION

PAULIE CLOTHING Paulie has introduced a range of new designers to its stores this season including Joie, AG Jeans and Emanuela Caruso.

The AW15 collections boast a selection of statement coats in a range of shapes and patterns, classic denim and suede pieces championing the continual 70s inspiration and luxurious wool and cashmere knits including this season’s coveted poncho.

9 St Johns Wood, NW8, 0207 722 2824; paulieclothing.com

OSKA

CROSSEYES EYEWEAR & OPTOMETRY

The OSKA Autumn/Winter 2015 is soft, light and cuddly. Exciting combinations of materials form the new look. Irregularly folded paper designs inspire striped and checked patterns Cardigans and OSKA boiled wool are casual in look and feel. The winter colours are harmonious and soft. Grey and green shades are combined with cinnamon, woolen white, rose or heather. A glowing red invigorates.

71 Heath Street, NW3, 020 7433 1482; oska-hampstead.co.uk

CrossEyes Eyewear & Optometry has opened up in Camden. Epitomising class and style with their vast selection of frames, all at an affordable price, it’s no wonder CrossEyes are leading the way in optical fashion. From limited edition eyewear to bespoke creations, explore the range in Clerkenwell or the newly opened Camden store. 68 Chalk Farm Road, NW1, 0207 284 1645; crosseyes.co.uk

SWEET PEA Sweet Pea is a luxury designer jewellery boutique in Primrose Hill. Run by Siobhan O’Neill and her friendly team, this inviting boutique sells delicate 18ct gold jewellery set with diamonds, precious stones and pearls all handcrafted on the premises.

It also offers a bespoke engagement and wedding ring service and stocks fellow designers including Alex Monroe, Polly Wales, Laura Lee and Jo Hayes Ward.

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

33 C&A_September15_Sales_Feature.indd 33

SEPTEMBER 2015

18/08/2015 13:44

FASHION / MEN’S STYLE

WARDROBE MASTER The menswear brands you should know about right now

with a contemporary edge.

Gerbase’s real talents, however, lie in her use of fabric. Close-cut alpaca blazers in shades of charcoal and dove grey come teamed with just-floatyenough seersucker trousers in navy and drapey-yet-flattering overcoats in light wools and crepes. u Best For: Cross-seasonal outerwear, particularly Gerbase’s overcoats.

1205.eu

2 | O u r Le g acy B y T e o va n d e n B r o e k e

W

e men are creatures of habit. When we shop, we shop loyally and we spend deeply.

If we find a shirt we like, from a brand we trust, the likelihood is that we’ll buy the same shirt again and again, year after year. The thing is, sometimes it pays to mix things up a bit. That same blue cable knit jumper you’ve been wearing since 1989 might be as comfortable as a second skin, but you can bet the threads its woven from that it’s looking more than a little tired. Here, to help you branch out a bit, is my edit of the five most interesting brands in menswear right now.

1 | 1205

Overseen by founder Paula Gerbase, who is also the creative director at heritage British shoe brand John Lobb, 1205 is the place to go for understated, perfectly cut basics

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

CHIS_JUlY15_Mens_Page1_2.indd 34

Swedish brand Our Legacy is one of Scandavia’s most successful exports.

Best known for a refreshingly boxy cut, refreshingly floaty cut and a sporty approach to tailoring, the brand is my go to for perfectly cut slub cotton T-shirts, soft leather jackets and drawstring waist pyjama style trousers. u Best For: The brand’s zip-up suede shirts are second to none. ourlegacy.se

3 | Ba a rtm a n s & S i e g e l

Owned by Anglo-Dutch design couple Wouter Baartmans and Amber Siegel, Baartmans & Siegel, is well known for its contemporary use of fur, but over the last few seasons the brand has also branched into sportswear-inspired, brilliantlytailored menswear. Shades of navy and forest green dominate and cuts are sharp. u

richly referenced collections which he shows in Paris every season. A master with fabric and pattern, for Autumn Winter ’15 Van Noten produced richly embroidered jackets, soft track pants and floaty bombers which stole the show. u Best For: Jacquard blazers with an immaculate cut. thecorner.com

5 | G u cc i

Though Florentine brand Gucci has been around for almost a century, new designer Alessandro Michele has injected a much-needed dose of on-point creativity into the brand.

Eschewing the sexed-up vibe of Tom Ford era Gucci in favour of a more floaty, feminine approach – Michele’s Gucci feels modern and clever.

Slouchy navy trousers came teamed with lace (yes lace) shirts, oversized parkas, fur trimmed jackets and slim-cut seventies style suits in soft shades. u Best For: AW15’s kangaroo-trimmed loafers, a playful take on the brand’s classic horsebit style. gucci.com

Best For: The fur-trimmed parkas, great as the weather gets colder. baartmansandsiegel.com

4 | D r i e s Va n N ote n

Belgian designer Dries Van Noten consistently wows with his thoughtful,

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

34 18/08/2015 13:31

BATH SORTS

BATHROOM DESIGN SPECIALISTS

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

BS.indd 2

09/10/2014 17:02

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

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

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

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

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

MM_AUGUST.indd 1

06/07/2015 17:19

> BEAUTY CONFIDENTIAL

p. 38

SHADES OF PALE

p. 41

FITNESS CONFIDENTIAL

p. 44

GENTLEWOMAN Smarten things up with this irresistible scent from Romano Ricci’s Parisian fragrance house, Juliette Has A Gun. A concoction of wood, musk and citrus notes, it is designed to give ladies a “dash of dandy”. £95 for 100ml; juliettehasagun.co.uk

37 Chis_Sept15_Beauty_Opener.indd 37

SEPTEMBER 2015

18/08/2015 13:42

B E AU T Y R e v i e w

The return of a classic beauty balm, floral shower gels, and the best coconut oil products W o r d s R o m y va n d e n B r o e k e

NUYU Primrose Hill

Wo r d s r o m y va n d e n b r o e k e

A

bout four years ago, you’d have never pinned me as the kind of girl who gets her hair done regularly. How things change: I now realise the value in keeping oneself well-groomed, so every 12 weeks I treat myself to a trim. This time it was NuYu in Primrose Hill that caught my eye.

The day before my appointment, I put in a quick phone call with Gav, my hairstylist, just to confirm the appointment. He asked me about my hair, then suggested getting a little colour. “I’m trying to keep things natural,” I explained, but Gav started telling me about a new hair ‘trend’, championed by beauties such as Gisele Bundchen and Rosie HuntingtonWhitely. Ecaille, which means tortoiseshell in French, is a relation to balayage and ombré, two hair trends I've had in the past, but it’s the subtlety that makes it different.

This technique is suited to brunettes as it incorporates complementing tones such as honey and caramel. Rather than foiling, the colours are freely painted through the hair to give it a natural, richer, multidimensional tone. Gav got to work, and after a quick trim and blow dry, I was done. While it looked great, it wasn’t until one month later when the sun had lifted the warmer tones and my hair looked beautifully rich, that I realised I was hooked. Eternally ecaille. ◆ ● N U Y U , 9 Princess Road, NW1; macsprimrosehill.co.uk

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

CHIS_SEP15_Beauty_Notes.indd 38

She’s Got Lip Carolina Herrera

We may be pushing pastels and nudes over the page, but if you’re looking to make a statement this autumn, then take inspiration from Carolina Herrera and MAC Cosmetics, who painted blood reds and deep burgundies onto the models lips. maccosmetics.co.uk

38 18/08/2015 13:38

HEALTH & BEAUTY / NOTES editor’s

PICK

8 of the best

COCONUT OIL FLOWER SHOWER

01

Frederic Malle

02

Adding to his impressive but small repotoire of body washes, Frederic Malle has launched a new collection of floral scented shower gels. Available in five key scents – Lys Mediterranee, Carnal Flower, Lipstick Rose, En Passant and Eau de Magnolia – and ranging between £35-£45, these are ideal for a fresh start to your day. fredericmalle.com

best

BUY

BOYS’ CLUB Acqua di Parma

New from our favourite Italian fragrance house Acqua di Parma, is the new Colonia Club scent for men.

The citrus top notes are refined with fine touches of neroli, mint, lavender and Haitian vetiver, keeping it fresh, polished and quintessentially Italian. £81 for 100ml; johnlewis.com

03

06 04

05

BLAST FROM THE PAST Pommade D ivine

It’s likely, if you’re from aristocratic stock, that you recognise Pommade Divine. This 300-year old recipe has been traced back to Marie Antoinette’s great granny in 1700 and has long been a miracle ointment for all skin concerns. Perfect for baby and adult, this is the only balm you need. £20; liberty.co.uk 07

08

FRESH TAKE Ve r s o

Sleek and minimal, Verso are all about keeping things simple. Uncomplicated product descriptions and minimal packaging take beauty regimes back to basics. We love the new cleansing kit from the Stockholm brand, which includes the brilliant foaming cleanser and exfoliating cloths. £40; versoskincare.com

39 CHIS_SEP15_Beauty_Notes.indd 39

1. PALMER’S COCONUT OIL FORMULA, COCONUT OIL HAND CREAM 60g, £1.60; boots.com 2. PUREOLOGY COLOUR FANATIC 200mL, £14.35; feelunique.com 3. RMS BEAUTY, LIP SHINE IN ‘SACRED’, £22; net-a-porter.com 4. UNIQ ONE, ALL-IN-ONE HAIR TREATMENT, £7.90; justmylook.co.uk 5. KIEHL’S, AMINO ACID SHAMPOO 250mL, £16; kiehls.co.uk 6. THIS WORKS, DEEP SLEEP BALM 10g, £12; boots.com 7. DR JACKSON’S 04 COCONUT MELT, £10; drjackson.co.uk 8. TIGI BED HEAD, COLOUR GODDESS OIL INFUSED CONDITIONER 750mL, £24.25; feelunique.com

SEPTEMBER 2015

18/08/2015 13:39

CrossEyes Camden NOW OPEN

CrossEyes Camden 68 Chalk Farm Road, Camden London NW1 8AN camden@crosseyes.co.uk T 0207 284 1645 www.crosseyes.co.uk crosseyesuk crosseyesuk crosseyesuk

CROSSEYES.indd 1

18/08/2015 12:40

HEALTH & BEAUTY / PRODUCTS SHISEIDO

Shimmering Eye Cream Colour in OR313, £22; shiseido.com

TOM FORD

Eye and Cheek Shadow in Peach Ombre, £48; tomford.com

BAREMINERALS

READY Eyeshadow 4.0 in The Comfort Zone, £29; bareminerals.co.uk

BENEFIT

Luminescent Complexion Enhancer High Beam, £19.50; benefitcosmetics.co.uk

CLINIQUE

Chubby Stick Sculpting Highlight, £19; clinique.co.uk

SMASHBOX

Photo Finish Hydrating Under Eye Primer, £21; smashbox.co.uk

DANIEL SANDLER Watercolour Fluid Blusher in Joy, £15.50; danielsandler.com

PERRICONE MD

Citrus & Neroli Detangler, £16; feelunique.com

No Foundation Foundation Serum, £45; perriconemd.co.uk

DSQUARED AW15

JOHN MASTERS ORGANICS

SHADES OF PALE

STILA

Illuminating Beauty Balm, £26; stila.co.uk

Keep things fresh this September with pale pinks and nude hues B y R O M Y VA N D E N B R O E K E

ILLAMASQUA

Matte Finish Lipstick in Liv Soft Lavender Pink, £19.50; illamasqua.com

TOPSHOP

5 Years of Beauty Lipstick in Nevada, £8; topshop.com

BAGSY

Beautiful Eyes 24 Hour Eye Colour in Caffeine Fix with Sharpener, £14; feelunique.com

41 Chis_Sept15_Beauty_Products2.indd 41

YVES SAINT LAURENT

Touche Éclat Blur Perfector in Broo, £31.50; yslbeauty.co.uk SEPTEMBER 2015

18/08/2015 16:10

LAB SPA.indd 2 9499.indd 1

13/08/2015 17:20

DEDICATED TO YOU MUSWELL HILL THE AVENUE N10 2QE CALL 020 8482 3000 MILL HILL HALL LANE NW4 4TJ CALL 020 8457 3300

LABSPA.CO.UK

e v i s u l Exc ing Join s Offer LAB SPA.indd 3

13/08/2015 13/08/2015 17:21 15:21

review

HEALTH & BEAUTY / NOTES

KARL’S WAY

Despite once stating “Sweatpants are a sign of defeat,” the king of fashion, Karl Lagerfeld, has turned his hand to sportswear.

Teaming up with Berlin-based online retailers Zalando, this new collection is impossibly chic. zalando.co.uk

VOGA

Yoga-cum-Vogueing at Coq d'Argent

F

or some people, yoga is just too slow and steady; far too relaxing to be classed as exercise and not enough sweat to warrant a post-class cocktail. These people need to try VOGA, the fusion of yoga and “Vogueing” (Madonna’s famous dance) taking the fitness world by storm.

Vogueing originated as a highly stylised dance form in the 1980s New York drag ballroom scene. Giving participants a sense of empowerment and confidence through dramatic and expressive poses, this was a slick, angular style of dance. Having identified with the strong, precise and powerful poses, yoga instructor Juliet Morel began to play around with the similarities between Vogueing and the physical alignment of yoga. Calling upon the same amount of passion, mindfulness and purposefulness as Yoga, Voga is for people who like the idea of stretching but still want a cardiac workout.

Once a month, this hybrid class takes place on the roof of Coq d’Argent, which has an incredible view of the City. The class is fast-paced and challenging, involving more “Queenies” than expected. You’ll have to leave your inhibitions at the door, give in to the heavy 80s beat, and have fun. Do this and you’ll leave the roof ready to hit the Coq d’Argent bar, which makes an array of delicious Voga cocktails.

Please don’t leave until you’ve tried a watermelon cooler. ◆ 27 September, Coq d'Argent, The Poultry, EC2R; vogalondon.co.uk

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

C&A_SEP15_Health.indd 44

Fitness

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

GREEN GODDESS Lean Greens

romising to taste better than its competitors, Lean Greens is confident that their superpowder is the best.

Packed with wheatgrass, spirulina and chlorella, as well as six digestive enzymes, it tastes sweet. £44.97 for 500g; leangreens.com P

Life Saver The trick to staying on “the wagon” is to have healthy snacks ready for when hunger strikes. With this in mind, Lifebox helps you to find food products that you, your friends and family will love in spite of any unhealthy habits. Sending you a carefully curated box of delicious goodies each month, these guys are our saviours. lifeboxfood.com

44 18/08/2015 13:50

INTELLIGENT WEIGHT LOSS Give us six weeks and we will re-shape your body and re-wire the way you eat – once and for all. For nearly two decades our clients have lost weight, found true fitness and discovered a balanced way of living that will outlast a thousand fads.

The Intensive Programme combines our intelligent eating method with world-class personal training in your own home. For six weeks we sculpt your body with metabolic workouts tailored just for you. Your body fat levels will plummet and your metabolism will soar. Our dietitians coach you and monitor your body composition weekly to ensure you’re right on track. Most women lose twenty pounds, men thirty.

The Optimum Weight Loss Programme personally coaches you for 12 weeks from our Belgravia Clinic, wherever you are in the world.

By following our nutrition method, you shed body fat and learn how to eat beautifully forever.

We know results are important so that’s exactly what we give you, along with a blueprint for lasting success.

2 E ATON GATE | BELGRAVIA LONDON | SW1W 9BJ 0044 203 427 5863 INFO@LOUISEPARKER.UK.COM W W W.LOUISEPARKER.UK.COM

LOUISE PARKER.indd 2

07/01/2015 09:25

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

. N1C 4TB

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

GNH_ABSOLUTE_JULY_P+SM_FINAL.indd 1 GNH.indd 1

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

> KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL

p. 49

WORRY-FREE FEEDS

p. 50

REVIEW: L'ANIMA

p. 55

FRESH PRINCE Introducing our new favourite takeaway, Bel-Air in Shoreditch. Solving any lunchtime quandry, this is ‘Feel good fast food’ at its best. We love the courgette hash breakfast pots with scrambled egg, and the ginger and chilli crab cakes. bel-air.co

47 C&A_Sept15_Food_Opener.indd 47

SEPTEMBER 2015

18/08/2015 13:51

Comfort Dining in the Heart of St. Johns Wood

Open Seven Days a Week

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

www.crockersfolly.com

ENQUIRE ABOUT RENTING OUR LUXURY APARTMENTS AT THIS PRESTIGIOUS LOCATION

CROCKERS FOLLY_SEPT.indd 1

13/08/2015 09:44

What to drink

FOOD & DRINK / NOTES

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

SWEETCORN FRITTERS

hen the mellow, buttery flavour of sweetcorn is served as a little, fried fritter, a cool and crisp Chardonnay without too much oak works a dream. This one is fresh and zingy thanks to its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, which will cut through the oiliness with ease, plus it has a warm succulent melon flavour that will pick up on the creamy sweetcorn. ◆

W

TABLE TALK Tasty happenings from the local area W o r d s R O M Y VA N D E N B R O E K E

De Martino Limari Valley Chardonnay 2013 l £8.50; marksandspencer.com

Small World

PUMPKIN RISOTTO

The East India Company

Skilled chocolatiers, The East India Company, are no strangers to incorporating fragrant spices and herbs into its products. The recent range of seven chocolate bars contains worldy treasures such as Australian Murray River Salt and Sri Lankan Ginger. ◆ l eicfinefoods.com

he richness of pumpkin usually cries out for the white grape Viognier, which can match it toe-to-toe with depth of flavour. But this southern French blend of four grapes – Vermentino, Roussanne, Grenache Blanc and Viognier – is a clever alternative. It still has a generous peach and apricot fruitiness but there’s a herbal flavour, which works great with the sage in the risotto, while the oak is so subtle it just tickles the tongue. ◆

T

Paul Mas Château Paul Mas Belluguette 2014 l £14.99; majestic.co.uk

FIG & FRANGIPANE TART

he decadence of almonds and figs in a pastry case calls for a bottle of something special, which is made brilliantly affordable if you buy a smaller dessert wine. This Hungarian Tokaji is like liquid gold with luscious layers of honeycomb, marmalade and barley sugar-sweet tangy deliciousness. It’s a must-try dessert wine. ◆

T

Royal Tokai Blue Label 5 Puttonyos 2009 l £12.29; waitrose.com l £10.99; winerack.com

janeparkinson.com

SEA CLUB Lobster Bar

SAY CHEESE

Anna Mae’s ondon food pop up, Anna Mae’s have been serving L up top-notch mac ‘n’ cheese for quite some time. Now a stalwart at street food markets, Anna Mae’s have compiled their legendary recipes into one big cookbook, which features classics from the truck, including our favourite, The Don Macaroni.l anna-maes.com

PRODUCT OF THE MONTH

Propercorn have added a new peanut and almond flavour to their roster. Not only are they delicious and light, each bag is low calorie and fat free. l propercorn.com

49 C&A_Sept15_Food_Notes.indd 49

Adding to Richmond Road’s burgeoning restaurant scene is Lobster Bar, a new crustecean devoted eatery. From sweet lobster rolls to delicate lobster linguine, as well as an array of other seafood specialities, Lobster Bar sounds right up our street. Is it up yours? ◆ l lobsterbar.co.uk

SEPTEMBER 2015

18/08/2015 14:01

XXXXXX / XXXXXXX

Worry-Free

FEEDS

From Deliciously Ella to The Detox Kitchen, the hottest health experts share their advice for those with special dietary requirements Wo r d s S t e p h a n i e K i n g

S

ummer is a time when we all suddenly seem to be concerned about health. Call it vanity, call it a step in the right direction, whatever the cause, there’s no denying the extraordinary force compelling us to pack some #cleaneating into our lives.

But aside from the ample healthy living fodder Instagram provides, there’s the ever-increasing portion of society who struggle daily with their diet not because of #summerbodygoals, but because of special dietary requirements. Well, Absolutely is here to help.

We’ve enlisted the UK’s hottest health and nutrition experts to demystify the confusing world of food allergies,

intolerances and lifestyles imposing certain food intake restrictions.

Nutritionist Rob Hobson, one half of The Detox Kitchen, gives valuable nutrition advice, where his business partner and The Detox Kitchen head chef, Lily Simpson provides scrumptious, easy-to-make recipe ideas. The Yes Chef Tess Ward and Honestly Healthy founder Natasha Corrett put forward some equally delicious dishes found within their new cookbooks.

To garnish, Ella Woodward of internationally acclaimed food blog Deliciously Ella reveals her top health product available on the market right now, and Madeleine Shaw shares her food philosophy ahead of her Get the Glow book release. So dig in; there’s plenty of no fat, meaty reading to sink your teeth into.

TESS WARD, THE YES CHEF'S KALLØ RICE CAKES WITH TOMATO, FETA & POMEGRANATE

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

JULY 15_Worry_Free_Feeds.indd 50

FOR THOSE WITH ALLERGIES icking off with the most significant dictator of diet, food allergies have been identified by the World Health Organisation as the No. 1 environmental epidemic disease facing children of the developed world. One of the most common is hypersensitivity to tree nuts and peanuts (technically a legume), according to leading allergy resource Allergy UK. Parents can now breathe a sigh of relief, because within Simpson and Hobson’s The Detox Kitchen Bible and Ward’s upcoming release, The Naked Diet, are nut-free salads substituting in seeds, such as sunflower and pumpkin, which Simpson says “add that nutty depth of flavour and a good crunch.”

Knowing a few nut-free recipes is especially important nowadays, seeing as 2015’s study conducted by King’s College London’s Professor Gideon Lack, published in February’s New England Journal of Medicine, found that the incidence of food allergy continues to increase, where 1 in 50 school age children in the UK suffer from a peanut allergy – over double the statistics recorded in the last decade.

Clearly awareness and knowledge of foods to avoid / completely nut-free products to purchase is key, as allergic reactions can vary in severity – from mild responses of itching and swelling of the lips and mouth, to potentially life-threatening anaphylaxis.

Thankfully health food stores such as Holland & Barrett have an extensive range of brands – including our favourites, Biona, Clearspring, Meridian Foods, Naturya, and Propercorn – promising products that are prepared in factories totally devoid of the common potential allergens, nuts, fish / K

50 18/08/2015 14:03

FOOD & DRINK / HEALTHY LIVING shellfish, kiwis, eggs, soya, and celery.

But for the 20% of the population experiencing reactions to food that aren’t indicative of an allergy, a statistic estimated by the British Dietetic Association, Corrett suggests this may be due to a food intolerance: “If you feel tired, groggy, lacking in energy, [or have] bad skin, look at what’s on your plate.”

NATASHA CORRETT'S HONESTLY HEALTHY CLEANSE BAKED EGG AVOCADOS

FOR THOSE WITH INTOLERANCES ccording to Allergy UK’s 2007 Food Allergy and Food Intolerance Report, insensitivity to certain foods affects almost half of the population.

One of the most well known of these intolerances is that of wheat. To summarise it simply, the body’s immune system negatively responds to a protein within wheat (as well as rye and barley in the case of Coeliac disease, which can be managed with a gluten-free (GF) diet) causing a reaction, be it “bloating, irritable bowel syndrome, diarrhoea,” as Hobson explains.

Testing is the only way to get a definitive answer, and YorkTest kits are an easy way to get a comprehensive analysis of your tolerance of different foods and potential allergens.

“People with intolerances or allergies often have an impaired gut, so foods that are gut healing, like chicken stock, are A

Awareness of FOODS to avoid and PRODUCTS to purchase is KEY

THE DETOX KITCHEN BIBLE'S BEAN, SPROUT & AVOCADO SALAD

51 JULY 15_Worry_Free_Feeds.indd 51

good to get in,” advises nutritional health coach Shaw. “Eggs, avocados, and sweet potatoes” are her other nutrient-packed recommendations, with Ward adding these grocery items are “really beneficial to your [intake of] good fats and vitamins.” The Yes Chef also suggests opting for cooked vegetables over raw, “as they are easier on the digestion.”

Simpson’s Cajun Chicken with Avocado Salad & Mango Salsa, Pumpkin Curry, and Baked Aubergine with Lemon Yoghurt & Pomegranate are brilliant GF recipes found in The Detox Kitchen Bible. Alternatively, BOL Foods’ ready-made meal pots (stocked in Sainsbury's and Tesco) are affordable last-minute food solutions, where its Super

SEPTEMBER 2015

18/08/2015 14:03

looking for a venue for this year’s

christmas party?

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

MY

K

BOOK WITH VALENTINA FINE FOODS BEFORE NOVEMBER 15TH, 2015 AND GET A COMPLIMENTARY GLASS OF PROSECCO UPON ARRIVAL PER PERSON VISIT WEBSITE FOR FULL TERMS AND CONDITIONS

PRIVATE DINING AREA AVAILABLE AT TOWER BRIDGE BRANCH 31 SHAD THAMES LONDON SE1 2YR towerbridge@valentinafinefoods.com 020 7036 6028

VALENTINA.indd 1

14/08/2015 11:15

FOOD & DRINK / HEALTHY LIVING

DELICIOUSLY ELLA'S BELOVED DATE NECTAR DATE LOAF

THERE are

so many options

OUT THERE NOW FOR people with ALLERGIES and

intolerances

MADELEINE SHAW'S GET THE GLOW LEMON SOLE

Quinoa Squash, Super Roasted Beetroot, Mexican Sweet Potato Chilli, and Thai Thom Yum are all great GF options.

With respect to lactose intolerance, which Hobson says “affects about 5% of the UK population,” individuals who are unable to digest this sugar molecule found within dairy products “should look for alternative sources of calcium, such as dark green vegetables, pulses, plant milks, salmon, and dried fruits.” Corrett and Shaw both suggest using Rude Health’s milks for their recipes, and Corrett’s Coconut Cauliflower Tart, a useful dinner idea, is one of the many dairy-free gems included in her latest title, Honestly Healthy Cleanse. Ward also notes CO YO coconut milk yoghurts as handy breakfast options, which are best sprinkled with Primrose Kitchen’s GF muesli. The Coconut Collaborative’s vegan ice creams make for superb, guilt-free late night treats.

Guilt-Free Goodies BELOVED Date Nectar, £3.99; belovedates.com

THE DETOX KITCHEN BIBLE Lily Simpson & Rob Hobson, £17; amazon.co.uk

PROPERCORN Flavoured Popcorn, £1.59; waitrose.com

CLEARSPRING Instant Miso Soup, £3.99; clearspring.co.uk

FOR THOSE WITH DIETARY REQUIREMENTS hile there are many health benefits to embracing meat-free lifestyles, these diets “require a little more planning,” says Hobson. “Vegetarians and vegans can struggle to get enough omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, iron and vitamin B12.”

Unilaterally, however, our veritable food authorities emphasise a well-balanced diet, where Corrett clarifies this means “lots of vegetables, grains, pulses, nuts and seeds…

Just remember to eat the rainbow!”

Simpson and Shaw also caution those on

THE COCONUT COLLABORATIVE Frozen Yoghurt & Ice Cream, From £1.40; coconutco.co.uk

W

PRIMROSE’S KITCHEN Gluten-Free Muesli, £5.95; primroseskitchen.com GET THE GLOW Recipes by Madeleine Shaw, £18; waterstones.com

53 JULY 15_Worry_Free_Feeds.indd 53

low sugar or low fat diets to be wary of “most processed ‘healthy foods’,” which Simpson says are usually “hiding something.

If they’re low fat they’re probably laden with sugar and vice versa.” Although one packaged food range even diabetics can enjoy includes BeLOVeD’s Date Nectar products. Receiving the stamp of approval from young foodie Woodward, “Date nectar is one of the best to add natural sweetness to food. I use it on everything – from porridge, to smoothies, chia puddings, crumbles, muffins, cakes, and icing.”

On the savoury side, Shaw’s quick snack ideas of grilled chicken with hummus or “roasting up some veggies with coconut oil and smoked paprika and serving with rocket, avocado and pumpkin seeds” are perfect for individuals aiming to reduce their salt intake or manage their cholesterol.

Ward also admits she’s “a sucker” for Kallø Organic Rice and Corn Cakes: “You can layer them with different toppings to enjoy as a low carb snack. One of my favourite [combinations] is chopped tomatoes, feta and pomegranate with chopped coriander and spring onions.”

Evidently there’s vast array of wholesome meals that cater to special diets. And with the help of Corrett, Hobson, Simpson, Ward, Shaw and Woodward, you’ll never be without recipes that are as nutritious as they are delicious. Suffering from food sensitivity issues? Corrett sums it up nicely: “There are so many options out there now for people with allergies and intolerances, you just need to find the Free From range and create the healthy alternative.” u

SEPTEMBER 2015

18/08/2015 14:03

K

I

T

C

H

E

N

S

S

I

N

C

E

1

9

8

1

120 Wigmore Street, London, W1U 3LS 509 Uxbridge Road, Hatch End, Pinner, Middlesex HA5 4JS 77-79 Wycombe End, Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire HP9 1LX Telephone: 020 7486 3080 email: info@halcyon-interiors.co.uk | www.halcyon-interiors.co.uk

FULL PAGE.indd 2 Halcyon ad_210x297mm.indd 1

21/03/2013 11/03/2013 10:39 11:21

FOOD & DRINK / RESTAURANT REVIEW What followed

WAS EXEMPLARY

Southern Italian CUISINE

for themselves with the rich, creaminess of the buratta blending beautifully with the acidic sweetness of the balsamic all brought together by the subtle texture of the tortelli.

After these three appetisers, we moved onto the main courses which began with the tuna tartare with avocado and spicy mango. This dish was light and fresh, with intense flavour packed into every mouthful. Our second main was the marinated black cod in prosecco and paprika served with Palourde Clams, which I found to be slightly overwhelmed by the paprika but nonetheless cooked wonderfully. The last main, chopped

L’Anima

A slice of authentic Southern Italian cuisine nestled between Shoreditch and the City Wo r d s C at h e r i n e h a l e s

V

isitors to L’Anima could be forgiven for thinking it a bit of a corporate refuge, with its position at the edge of the city and its clean white and chrome-style interior.

In actual fact, nothing could be farther from the truth – not for nothing is this restaurant named after the Italian word for soul. Run by Head Chef Antonio Favuzzi, L’Anima takes its influences from Southern Italy: Puglia, Sicily and Sardinia.

My friend and I had previously popped into L’Anima Café (just around the corner from the restaurant) for a very well made Aperol Spritz before embarking on a recommended tasting menu. The

langoustine and prawn filled ravioli with lobster broth was served prettily in a glass teacup, the ravioli swimming in the spicy and aromatic broth. The ravioli itself was cooked to perfection and the langoustine and prawns were fresh and succulent.

What followed was an exemplary representation of Southern Italian cuisine. Linguine with Mazara prawns and courgette flowers was delicate and flavoursome, with the texture of the al dente linguine contrasting well with the tender prawns and smooth courgette flowers. Next up was the green herbs tortelli with burrata, ricotta and aged balsamic vinegar which was my personal favourite; the ingredients really spoke

55 C&A_SEP15_Review_ L'ANIMA.indd 55

raw beef with Sardinian artichokes and bottarga, was the perfect blend of surf and turf with the bottarga adding a salty seataste to the juicy raw beef.

Our puddings (yes, we managed puddings) of milk and rice ice cream with strawberries and raspberry and almond tart with liquorice crumble and yoghurt ice cream were both exceptional – the almond tart in particular was deliciously moist and sweet. We left, full and content feeling we had encountered a real piece of Italy nestled in the City. ◆

● l’anim a 1 Snowden Street, EC2A; lanima.co.uk

SEPTEMBER 2015

18/08/2015 14:05

Learn for Life

Safe in the heart of England Come and see for yourself Call us now to book an Open Morning or individual visit 01572 758758 admissions@oakham.rutland.sch.uk

OAKHAM SCHOOL.indd 1

14 -15 November Visit us on stand 619

Oakham is a great co-educational boarding and day school for 10 -18 year olds offering A Levels and the IB

www.oakham.rutland.sch.uk

12/08/2015 16:27

> SMALL TALK: TOP BUYS FOR KIDS THIS SEPTEMBER

p. 59

HEAD SPACE

p. 61

AUTUMN SLEEVES If you’re thinking about updating your wee one’s wardrobe, Alex and Alexa’s AW15 collections will not disappoint. Discover delectable kids clothing from key brands including Kenzo, Stella McCartney and I Love Gorgeous as well as underground labels like Little Eleven Paris. Launching in October; alexandalexa.com

57 CHIS_Sept15_Kids_Notes.indd 57

SEPTEMBER 2015

18/08/2015 14:06

Lancing College

CHARTERHOUSE

CANFORD

SANCTON WOOD SCHOOL

The

Falcons

Meet the big names of British education

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

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

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

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

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

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

KIDS & EDUCATION / NOTES SOLE MUSIC

Yo u n g S o l e s Young Soles’ comfy classics are the perfect fit for the new term; think a winning mix of British heritage and contemporary styles influenced by mid ‘80s and early ‘90s fashion and music. Your nippers will look decidedly cool for school. youngsoles.co.uk

TRIED

&TESTED

CYBEX PRIAM Wo r d s H E L E N B A R O N

A

SMALL TALK The top products for heading back to school in style this September

HOME GROWN Snug Studio

Chart your child’s growth rate on this new height chart from Snug Studio.

Little ones will love the interactive element and the minimal design will be apiece with most modern nursery interiors. Marker pens sold separately! £17; thismodernlife.co.uk

contemporary stroller that pays homage to design legends Ray and Charles Eames, the new Cybex Priam – the first travel system from the world-leading car-seat brand – is much more than just a pretty face. Hybrid wheels suit all surfaces, while you can you switch to a two-wheel system for difficult terrain.

There are even ski attachments for snowy adventures.

All the usual extras and accessories are present and correct – carry cot, cup holder, kid-board – along with a simple one-hand fold mechanism and table-height, full-reclining seat.

The only (tiny) downside is the weight of the all-terrain wheels and their slightly large size – but the super smooth suspension, manoeuvrability and (let’s be honest) head-turning design more than make up for this. It’s official: this is the new coolest buggy on the block. ◆

Prices start from £790; mamasandpapas.com

WHITE OUT

KEEPING COOL

¢ Pick of the month is this minimal white t-shirt from graphic design company Norfolk. Encourage wee ones to play hard this term – and there are words of encouragement for adults, too, with a matching ‘work hard’ tee. £20; nor-folk.com

¢ Sarnies need never be boring again with this cool sandwich bag-cum-lunchbox from the makers of Mr Men. Wipe-clean and insulated to keep food fresh, it’s practical as well as fun. An essential bit of kit for the new term. £7.95; wildandwolf.com

N o r - Fo l k

W i l d a n d Wo l f

59 CHIS_September15_Kids_Notes.indd 59

SEPTEMBER 2015

18/08/2015 14:07

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

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

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

...and use new technologies

...and sin

g

ay

l ...and p

ove ! l e y w iends l t s mo eat fr t u b g gr n i mak

Open Mornings - First Tuesday of every month - booking is essential Contact us to visit today! - www.lyceumschool.co.uk 6 Paul Street, City of London, London EC2A 4JH MINERVA.indd 1

T: 020 7247 1588

E: admin@lyceumschool.co.uk 13/08/2015 13:52

KIDS & EDUCATION / SCHOOL TALK

HEAD SPACE Psychometric profiling is increasingly being used in the education arena Wo r d s A M a n d a C o n s ta n c e

“Y

ou’ve taken my soul and put it into a book.” So said a Year 10 girl on reading the results of her psychometric profile. Having read the 38 pages (yes, that’s 38) of computer-generated self-analysis produced when I completed my own profile – the Insights Discovery Personal Profile, no less – I find it hard to disagree with the sentiment. I dashed off 25 multiple choice questions in 10 minutes – what I got back was page after page of my inner workings laid bare. Not always 100% accurate but mostly on the nail and eerily prescient.

In schools, psychometric profiling is on the up – it’s long been used in the corporate sector –but it is now being increasingly used in the education sector.

At the HMC annual conference earlier this year (the Headmaster’s and Headmistress’s Conference is the association of leading independent schools), headmaster Jon Reid from Larbert High School described the extraordinary successes his school achieved after using a psychometric evaluator to improve pupil performance.

Colfe’s School in south-east London uses psychometric profiling for its Year 11s to help make career and university choices and there are a number of educational consultancies on the web offering profiling to enhance your child’s learning.

Ian Wigston, the co-founder of Bright Field Consulting, uses the Insights Discovery Profile, a psychometric evaluator built around the personality models originally developed by Swiss psychoanalyst Carl Jung. The Insights model is based around a colour wheel of four personality types: the extroverts Fiery Red and Sunshine Yellow; and the introverts Cool Blue and Earth Green.

Schools are using

PSYCHOMETRIC PROFILING to help Year 11s make CAREER & university CHOICES Each personality has many variations, strengths and weaknesses. For example, on a good day a Fiery Red personality can be strong-minded and purposeful, on a bad day they might be controlling and aggressive.

As Wigston puts it, “the Insights Discovery Profile is a questionnaire which uses 25 bits of data to come up with a picture of the individual”. The “craft of it” is that, despite being entirely created by clever algorithms and tech wizardry, its ‘voice’ is very human. You feel like you have sat down with an eminent psychologist.

Bright Field Consulting works with school leadership teams, particularly if there are new team members. As Wigston says, the profile “gives us a picture of

61 CHIS_Sept15_Education.indd 61

the DNA of the team”. This can help greatly with improving efficiencies and performance. It is important work: there is more burnout in the teaching profession these days than in any other, apart from foreign exchange brokers.

Wigston should know, he used to be a banker.

The Insights profile can also help school children. Using the Insights Young Adult Profile for 15-year-olds plus, can, for example give “us a picture of why they might struggle with certain subjects” says Wigston. They have worked successfully with a variety of schools, including Thornhill Community Academy, the school featured in Educating Yorkshire and the Woodard Corporation, which numbers Lancing College and Ardingly College amongst its independent schools.

Where it gets really interesting is the work Bright Field has done with both the teachers and the students in the same school. By gaining a psychological understanding of both, they have come up with some interesting ideas, not least that, in some cases, so-called bad behaviour in class or lack of academic attainment are sometimes because of a mismatch between teaching styles and students. Certain personalities learn in certain ways. As Wigston says: “If we work only with the leadership team or only with students –we can deliver that part of the equation – but if we work on both then we can say, this is how the pedagogy could be, in order to effect better results.”

But before every pushy parent runs out to get their child profiled, take note.

Wigston says that using a psychometric profile “is only one way of enabling a conversation to take place”. It should only be used in conjunction with coaching or guidance for that individual.

Trust me, if you go down this route, you want somebody holding your hand. u

SEPTEMBER 2015

18/08/2015 14:08

CONDÉ NAST

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

Say YES to the

BEST

Come and meet the people who are waiting to make your big day beautiful!

GET 25% OFF TICKETS TO BRIDES THE SHOW BY QUOTING ‘ABSOLUTELY’ WHEN BOOKING 2ND-4TH OCTOBER 2015, BUSINESS DESIGN CENTRE, LONDON N1

BOOK TODAY AT BRIDESTHESHOW.CO.UK BRIDE SHOW.indd- CityAngel.indd 2 BridesShowAdvert 1

11/08/2015 15:06 16:05 06/08/2015

> DORDOGNE & THE LOT: TOUR THROUGH SOUTH WEST FRANCE

p. 64

UK GETAWAY: PORT LYMPNE SAFARI PARK p. 69

WITH THE LOT Take a tour through Dordogne Valley and the Lot in France’s South West. Chateaux, picture perfect scenes and epicurian delights: this is only the beginning of what the Midi Pyrenees has to offer.

63 CH_KENS_JUL15_Travel Opener.indd 63

SEPTEMBER 2015

18/08/2015 14:12

XXXXXX / XXXXXXX

CASTLES In The Air

A tour of South West France’s beautiful Lot & Dordogne Wo r d s a l e x a n d r a h u n t e r

R

elais & Chateau boast some of the worlds most exquisite properties in their collection of luxury boutique hotels and now offer routes and itineraries, Routes du Bonheur, allowing a region or area of France to be explored through their wonderful hotels.

We selected the breathtaking regions of The Dordogne & The Lot in South West France, flying from London to Bergerac.

Exploring the rich medieval history of the Midi Pyrenees is ideal for a holiday involving driving.

Every corner driven ’round presents breathtaking views of rivers, towns and villages that could easily be mistaken for medieval film sets. Castles sit high on clifftops overlooking rivers, shrouded in early morning fog that dissipates as the sun rises to expose their majesty. Ancient towns and villages with their unmistakable tiled roof tops and warn yellow stone walls line the route each day. This region of France, famous for its walnut production, foie gras, asparagus, strawberries in summer and of course, the black truffle season in winter, is a must for any foodie. The wineries and

vineyards of the area beg to be explored and it is said that Malbec originated from the region.

Picking up a BMW 4 series convertible from the airport (partners of Routes Du Bonheur) we drove with the roof down and the sun shining through lush green countryside and rolling forests to the small village of Tremolat, located between the valleys of Vezere and Dordogne an hour from the airport. Le Vieux Logis is a small, 4 star hotel (23 rooms, all overlooking the park and gardens) in the heart of the village. Built as a tabacco farm and converted in 1952 the hotel has a wonderfully relaxed charm to it, informal yet with perfect presentation, reception, hospitality and of course food.

It is very clear why Vincent Arnould was awarded his Michelin Star in 2005.

We arrived mid-afternoon and had champagne and an exquisite light strawberry pastry in front of a roaring fire in one of the sitting rooms. Our rooms were not in the main house but in a restored single storey barn next to the main house.

The suite had a cottage-like comfort to it, large white wooden shutters, a boxed garden in front of the door with tables and

THESE RIVERS AND VILLAGES could

easily be mistaken FOR MEDIEVAL

film sets

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

C&A_August15_Tracel.indd 64

64 18/08/2015 14:13

TRAVEL / FRANCE

65 C&A_August15_Tracel.indd 65

SEPTEMBER 2015

18/08/2015 14:13

ABSOLUTELY LONDON

CITY & ANGEL SEPTEMBER 2015 / £3.95

INSIDE OUT

OUR GUIDE TO GUILT-FREE FEEDS

S T Y L I S H . I N T E L L I G E N T . E L E G A N T . A B S O L U T E LY

BEAR GRYLLS

ON SURVIVAL, SNAKES AND STARDOM

THE EDIT

THE BEST OF LONDON DESIGN FESTIVAL

HIDDEN GEMS

DOWNLOAD

INTERIOR TREASURES AT PURE WHITE LINES

THE NEW

i PA D A P P T O D AY

Follow Suit

SEARCH FOR

‘ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES LONDON’

iTUNES, NEWSSTAND OR APP STORE

AUTUMN WARDROBE UPDATERS

The Best of Local Luxury

STYLISH / INTELLIGENT / ELEGANT COVER.indd 1

13/08/2015 16:30

RICHMOND

ABSOLUTELY A BSOLUTEL BSOLUTELY Chelsea Fulham

Richmond

MARCH 2013 £3.95

CHILD'S PLAY

NORTH BY NORTHWEST

NOTTING HILL

SUGAR

KENSINGTON

SUGAR CITY & ANGEL Putney & Wandsworth

ALEX AND ALEXA'S DESIGNER PICKS

BEST AFTERNOON TEAS IN TOWN

Battersea & Clapham

MARCH 2013

FASHION • SHOPPING • FOOD & DRINK • WHAT’S ON • CULTURE • INTERIORS • PROPERTY

CREATIVE MINDS

TOP ART HOLIDAYS IN EUROPE

DAVID NASH MAKING SHAPES IN KEW GARDENS

T: 020 7704 0588 / F: 020 7900 3020 IPAD HORIZONAL.indd 1

25/02/2015

11:59

Page 1

YORK HOUSE SCHOOL

WWW.ZEST-MEDIA.COM

ABSOLUTELY_MAGAZINES_MAR_2015:Layout 1

SS TT Y Y LLII SS H H .. II N N TT E ELL LL II G GE EN NT. T. E ELLE EG GA AN NT. T. A AB BSS O O LLU U TTE ELY LY

18/08/2015 10:05

Co-educational Preparatory Day School 3 to 13 years

Open Day Saturday 26 September

Come and explore a brighter future for your child.

Small class sizes with a broad and exciting academic curriculum.

Excellent sporting provision and a remarkable range of co-curricular activities.

Set in 47 acres there is plenty of room for young minds to grow.

EST. 1910

YORK HOUSE SCHOOL Sarratt Road, Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire, WD3 4LW Tel: 01923 772395 | Email: yhsoffice@york-house.com | Twitter: @SchoolYorkHouse

www.york-house.com YORK HOUSE SCHOOL.indd 1

_ADVERT PLACEMENTS_AUG.indd 2

Bursaries available. Administered by Charitable Trust No. 311076

17/08/2015 16:44

18/08/2015 15:44

TRAVEL / FRANCE chairs allowing for views of the wonderful gardens. Each room is individually designed, period furniture sitting next to modern luxury throughout the hotel. The gardens are formal French, a stream runs through the middle of the lawns with a beautiful terrace for meals in the warmer months and a swimming pool looks inviting after a day of exploring with its cool, clear water.

The hotel boasts two dining rooms, one the original tobacco-drying barn of the farm where dinner is served and the other a small bistro opposite the hotel. Food is seasonal and of course locally sourced by Arnould, traditional ingredients with modern concepts and presentation, every course was bursting with flavour. We started with asparagus and crab, as beautifully presented as it was delicious, followed by scallops with broad beans and truffle jus, followed by local lamb medallion with delicately spiced cous cous and herbed butter. A strawberry desert followed cheese, a delightful sorbet on a bed of meringue, strawberry compote and mint. We retired to The Fumoir (the feel of a hunting lodge, leather and dark woods) for brandy and coffee.

Knowing where our next hotel was located, Chateau de Marcues, a route was planned for us by Le Vieux Logis ensuring to we saw the best of the region. We stopped atBeynac to visit the cliff top 14th century castle and for a delicious lunch before moving on to La Roque offering breath-taking views of the valley and finally to Dommea town where the Knights Templar were held prisoners in 1307. Set high above The Lot river and beautiful countryside sits the majestic 4 star Chateaux de Mercues, standing on

its pedestal since the 13th century. The hotel is a wonderful mix of modernity and antiquity. The courtyard at the heart of the hotel remains untouched by time, despite sipping the Chateau’s soft warm Malbec in comfort, it’s easy to imagine the great draw bridge in use in earlier centuries. Under the chateaux is an unexpected treasure; a staggering winery was built by the owner to produce the wine yielded from the grapes of his near by vineyard, The Chateaux De Malbec, 2009 is exceptional.

Tours are available of the vineyard, well worth visiting, with meals offered in the perfectly converted barn and all wine tasted over the stay is on sale to ship or take home. Terraces and formal gardens lead to a beautiful outdoor pool – we explored the grounds listening to the river below before a tour of the cellars, sampling the range of wine made there. The Chateaux was home to the Bishops of Cahors for centuries and a chapel remains hidden in one of the turrets, the formal dining room is in the centre of the chateaux and was the

dining room of the Bishops. The food was exquisite, fresh, and beautifully presented while the setting offered views over The Lot river. Our rooms were large and welcoming with the need of every guest preempted and catered for. The hotel has 24 rooms, all decorated individually to reflect the different centuries the Chateau has seen as well as six apartments. The whole Chateaux is available for private hire and would make the most wonderful venue for a wedding or celebration.

The final hotel on our route was the truly exceptional Chateau de la Treyne.

Overhanging the Dordoyne as though it floats on the edge of the river and set in 300 acres of private parkland the position and the hotel itself are both breathtaking.

With only 14 rooms you feel like you are a guest of a home rather than a hotel, that said a perfectly presented home with a truly exceptional hostess, Stephanie Gombert.

The hotel is clearly loved by both its staff and all guests, comfortable and relaxed yet incredibly luxurious and lavish. We were taken to our rooms, the Dordoyne suite, a beautiful set of rooms with a terrace offering spectacular views over the river. The peace and tranquillity of the terrace was incredible, a warm light bathed everything it touched and the scent of lilac rose up from the walls below. I have rarely been happier than sitting with a drink soaking up the sun and listening to the sounds of nature. A welcome of black cherry compote and luxurious homemade pastries were laid out in the dressing room and the suite itself was spacious and welcoming. Hermes toiletries sat next to a bath that was almost big enough to swim in. We drank aperitifs on a beautiful terrace where all meals are served in the summer months, watching the sun set. Dinner was served in the Louis XIII salon, restored to it original glory. The food was delicious, Stephane Andrieux presides over the kitchen. The love that goes in to each dish is obvious, as is the award of a Michelin Star. ‘I like dishes that stimulate the taste buds and play on acidity and bitterness.’ His foie gras, uncooked and marinated between two spicy crusts was a delight, as were the lamb chops. Wine was served to suit each dish and the cheese board ensured we stayed at our table for far longer than we had planned to. I ordered breakfast for the room, delicious tiny omelets, fresh fruit, pastries and coffee eating on the terrace and wishing I could make this my home. The route to happiness? Absolutely. u

vieux-logis.com chateaudemercues.com chateaudelatreyne.com relaischateaux.com

67 C&A_August15_Tracel.indd 67

SEPTEMBER 2015

18/08/2015 14:14

THE ULTIMATE KUNG FU SHOW FOR ALL THE FAMILY

SIMON BETTS PERSONAL TRAINING GET FIT... FEEL HEALTHIER

BE MORE PRODUCTIVE

BE MORE PRODUCTIVE!

r Unde o 16s g ice r half ps & Term apply itions cond

“HAIR-RAISING BRILLIANCE” DAILY TELEGRAPH

29 Sep - 17 Oct 020 7863 8222 peacocktheatre.com

Holborn

• • • • • •

FAT LOSS CONDITIONING TONING NUTRITIONAL ADVICE OLDER ADULTS TAILOR MADE TRAINING PROGRAMMES

Web: www.simonbettspt.co.uk Tel: 07783078400 Email: simonbettspt@gmail.com

ABBEY ROAD FRAMING 020 7328 6915

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

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

_ADVERT PLACEMENTS_AUG.indd 3

27/01/2015 16:32

18/08/2015 15:45

TRAVEL / UK GETAWAY WHAT IS IT?

E

scape to Africa? Not quite, but for those wishing to have a wilderness safari experience without enduring the 12 hour flight, this could be your answer. A mere two hours drive from London, Damian Aspinall’s Port Lympne Safari Park has introduced ten private Treehouse suites to its roster of luxury accommodation.

Stairs leading up to your entirely glass-fronted accommodation give you an indication of the beauty that awaits you in your secluded treetop suite. Each of the Treehouses are nestled within an expanse of lush greenery that you could, if you excuse Britain’s ever changing weather, mistake for the tropical plains of Africa. A rhino on your doorstep? Almost. The sight of giraffes over breakfast on your sizable terrace? Not a mirage. There’s a lot to be said for experiencing this level of wildlife without having to pack your passport. u

PORT LYMPNE SAFARI PARK Wo r d s P i p pa V o s p e r

THE SUITES

M

DINING

eticulously designed down to every last bolt, the work of interiors guru Tara Bernard is evident; the calming tones that lead seamlessly from one room to the next, plush furnishings and views over Port Lympne’s 600 acres that you have to experience to believe. Your private kitchen is equipped with everything you would need for home-away-fromhome comforts and charming hampers filled with organic treats are delivered to your door each morning, meaning you can dine uninterrupted while taking in the spectacular views from your treetop location. u

B

espoke, set menu or self-catering are all options for the treehouse experience, or if you wanted to dine in less remote surroundings, you can take your waiting golf buggy to the restaurant within the main hotel on the grounds. We opted for supper in the treehouse, with perfectly presented local fare brought up to our suite; tender steak, succulent vegetables and a surprisingly decent local wine offering. The views may have said Africa, but we were after all in rural England, so a hearty sticky toffee pudding to end as we watched the sun set over the Kent countryside. u

THE DAMAGE Port Lympne Reserve, Nr. Ashford, Kent, CT21, 01303 802 648; aspinallfoundation.org

69 Chis_Sept15_UK_Getawayindd.indd 69

SEPTEMBER 2015

18/08/2015 14:15

DINING

LIVING

London & Surrey 020 7253 3206 or 01372 379810

WHARFESIDE.indd 1 Absolutely Magazine September 2015.indd 1

KITCHENS

BEDROOMS

www.wharfside.co.uk

29/07/2015 18:00 11:16 28/07/2015

Gold Plated and High Gloss Black Bubbles Dining Table, by Touched Interiors, £50,760

> INTERIORS INSPIRATION

p. 72

BUILDERS & MAKERS

p. 78

TREASURE SEEKER

p. 82

SPACE RACE Touched Interiors has kicked off autumn’s space race with this table’s epic base comprising gold-plated and black lacquer spheres. With its top made up of brass circles carved with a texture akin to wood, Houston, we have lift-off! Dining table, £50,760; touchedinteriors.co.uk

71 Chis_Sept15_interior_Opener.indd 71

SEPTEMBER 2015

18/08/2015 14:16

10 of the best

kitsch desk mates LONDON GARDEN TRADING

Iconic styles of decades past undergo a modern revival

Living Picture Frame Kit, £35.96; notonthe highstreet.com

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

GREAT LITTLE TRADING CO.

Personalised Pencils in Pink, £12; gltc.co.uk

MONOLOGUE LONDON Kaleido Set of Trays, £96.50; monologuelondon.com

Floral Renaissance

WEDGWOOD

Arris Desk Clock, £85; harrods.com

must

HAVE SQUINT LIMITED

The Desk Lamp, £720; squintlimited.com

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

Chis_Sept15_Interior_Insp.indd 72

S o f a Wo r k s h o p William Morris’s seminal Arts and Crafts prints have never really gone out of style. This autumn, the English craftsman’s intricate designs are casting a new light on the walls and furniture of our homes: carpet brand Brintons’ archive (said to be larger than the V&A’s) includes originals from Morris & Co, while Sofa Workshop can upholster any piece in a William Morris design. And, courtesy of Art.co.uk, you can dress up your walls with bold, colourful prints or delicate monochrome motifs. £1,355; sofaworkshop.com

72 18/08/2015 14:27

HOMES & INTERIORS / NOTES OUT THERE INTERIORS Purple Dressing Table, £510; notonthehighstreet.com

GIVE US ANOTHER Perfectly Put Together

Together Design’s recently launched e-store is a veritable source of quirky-cool products – exhibit A: these cute gold biscuit mugs. We can’t wait to see what’s on offer in the soon-to-be-released Cosmic line. £12; perfectlyputtogether.co.uk

ADDICTIVE ACCESSORIES Wick & Tallow

This Fulham-based company is a delight for the senses with its scented reed diffusers and candles.

Featuring heavenly pairings such as Patchouli & Grapefruit and Jasmine & Ylang Ylang, it’ll be difficult to not buy the entire range. From £35; wickandtallow.com

CARAN D'ACHE

Léman Bicolour Reflect Sunset Special Edition Fountain Pen, £450; penshop.co.uk

STUDIO ARHOJ

Prism Paper Weight, £11.20; twentytwentyone.com

DOUBLE TAP L u k e A l e x a n d e r We l l s

Extending his keen eye for aesthetics from styling into interiors, this talented designer not only has an Instagram account flooded with double tap-worthy posts, but a brilliant collection of chic, surprisingly affordable pieces. lukearthurwells.com

L'OBJET

Coral Bookend, £700; luxdeco.com

PARTY OF FIVE Darkroom

5 Years, 5 Shapes, 5 Products is the newest line to be unveiled by this cult design showroom.

In celebration of its fifth birthday, bold, geometric shapes assume the form of jewellery, candles and textiles, but the two-tone enamelware is our favourite.

From £9; darkroomlondon.com

73 Chis_Sept15_Interior_Insp.indd 73

SMYTHSON

2015-2016 Portobello Diary, £185; smythson.com

SEPTEMBER 2015

18/08/2015 14:30

LUXAFLEX.indd 2 LuxaflexUK_Silhouette_AbsolutelyNW-C-EL_SEPT.indd 1

11/08/2015 15:55 10/08/2015 10:52

HOMES & INTERIORS / PRODUCTS MISSONI HOME

Pouf, £517; missoni.com

DELCOR

‘Metro’ Chair upholstered in Christian Lacroix fabric, £1,798; delcor.co.uk

FENDI CASA

‘Kate’ Arm Chair, £POA; harrods.com

RLH COLLECTION

‘Hepplewhite’ Wing Chair, from £2,326; ralphlaurenhome.com

VERSACE HOME

‘Soho’ Table Lamp, £2,400; luxdeco.com

ALTREFORME

Mini Salvador by Fausto Puglisi, £202; luisaviaroma.com

TED BAKER

‘Marble King’ Duvet Cover, £95; fishpool.co.uk

KARL LAGERFELD

Figue & Poivre Noir Candle, £50; amara.com

KITTY MCCALL

‘Retro BenChair’ Collection

by Florrie + Bill, £250; kittymccall.com

MOROSO

‘My Moon My Mirror’ Table by Diesel, £730 excl. VAT; moroso.it

COSTUME DRAMA

We raise the curtain on the fashion houses making a sartorial mark on furniture ARMANI CASA

By Jessica klingelfuss

‘Glam’ Coiffeuse, £POA; armanicasa.com

ANGELPOISE

‘Original 1227’ Desk Lamp

by Eley Kishimoto, £200; angelpoise.com

BOTTEGA VENETA

‘Meta’ Collection, £POA; bottegaveneta.com

ROBERTO CAVALLI

‘Firenze’ 40cm x 40cm Cushion, £128; amara.com

75 Chis_Sept15_IntProd.indd 75

SEPTEMBER 2015

18/08/2015 14:21

BOCONCEPT

T HOME Come

Prepare for autumn with a little interior help from the O2 Centre, Finchley Road

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

CHIS_Sept15_O2_Adv.indd 76

he O2 Centre has interiors sussed. Whether you’re looking to update your home, office, or are preparing to start university, the shopping centre on Finchley Road has everything you need to live and work in style. With a wealth of homeware stores – including Habitat, Oliver Bonas, BoConcept, Tiger and Homebase – you can shop the latest interior trends, stock up on everything from stylish mugs to sleek sofas, and enjoy a well-earned feast at one of the centre’s many eateries.

Offering tastes from around the world, the O2 centre provides you with the perfect excuse to stop, relax and refuel after a busy day shopping. With our attention focused on autumn style, we caught up with the interior experts at the O2 Centre to find out what products they love this season… u

76 18/08/2015 14:33

ABSOLUTELY / PROMOTION WHO’S FOR COFFEE?

Retro furniture is seriously trendy this season and Homebase certainly haven’t let us down with this Hygena Merrick coffee table at £129. The design is a modern take on a mid-century style with tapered legs and contrasting drawer options, it adds style to any room.

EVERYTHING you need to LIVE and work in STYLE

SCATTER SOME STYLE

TAKE A BREAK

Forget about having to splash out on chinaware. We love these gorgeous, quirky mugs from Habitat which are only £5 each.

It’s not hard to spruce up your sofa or bed with these latest cushion designs from Oliver Bonas. Whether you opt for a geo print, or prefer the diagonal bolts, you’ll be sure to impress whoever visits. Cushions are £32 each.

SLUMP IN STYLE

You’re guaranteed to fall in love with this teal sofa, complete with sleeper function, from BoConcept (£3,374). Elegant and sleek, this design would look great with lots of scatter cushions or even a bold throw. If you’re unsure on what design might suit your pad, take advantage of BoConcept’s free interior design service in store.

ARTY ADMIN

Make sure you never miss a date with this Aztec Mid-Year planner from Paperchase. At just £8, it’s a funky and colourful addition to your desk.

LIGHT UP

This copper finished lamp from BoConcept is bang on trend for the autumn, especially as it’s shaped like a pinecone. Warm up your lounge or desk with this table lamp, which is available in three other colours, at £439.

SLUMBER SORTED

We’ve got our eyes on this reversible double bedspread from Habitat at £95. Perfect for snuggling up in when the colder months arrive, we love the beautifully bright colour.

ESSENTIAL UTENSIL

Inject some colour into your kitchen with this set of lime green utensils from Habitat. Bold, fun and practical, this fun set is only £4.

FALL FOR YOUR HOME Visit the O2 Centre from 24-27 September to enjoy special discounts, of up to 25% off, across AW15 homeware trends.

To find out more about the range of shops and restaurants at the O2 Centre, visit: o2centre.co.uk O2 Centre – Finchley Road O2CentreNW3

77 CHIS_Sept15_O2_Adv.indd 77

SEPTEMBER 2015

18/08/2015 14:34

XXXXXX / XXXXXXX

BUILDERS & MAKERS This month sees the return of the London Design Festival: here’s the lowdown

 DESIGNJUNCTION thedesignjunction.co.uk

aking place in both Victoria House and The College, in central London, designjunction is a hub of activity. From pop-ups to engaging seminars and live design work shops, and new and established brand showcases, all with a great mix of local food, designjunction is a guaranteed fun day out. Prepare to feel inspired, particularly with work from BoConcept, Another Brand, Larsson & Jennings and Tiipo in the mix.

T

Bodo Sperlin, Contour Table and Chair

W o r d s r o m y va n d e n b r o e k e

Novamobili

The festival will HOST SOME of the most REPUTED CREATIVES

 DECOREX INTERNATIONAL decorex.com

or a slightly different experience, head to Decorex in Syon Park, where it’s all about luxury. Not only has Decorex been around for over 38 years, it’s remained relevant and innovative in the face of an ever-changing industry. Attracting more than 12,500 industry professionals, it is not to be missed.

F

T

his September, all eyes will be on London as the annual London Design Festival returns to the city. Spanning the breadth of London, the festival will host more than 350 events, shows, seminars and exhibits, featuring some of the design world’s most reputed creatives and freshest talent in the industry. Here we break down the week-long festival, talk you through the different districts, and share our top picks and must-see brands during the festival.

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

CHIS_SEP15_LONDON DESIGN FESTIVAL ROUND UP_v2.indd 78

The Districts  100% DESIGN 100percentdesign.co.uk

fficially the UK’s largest trading event, 100% Design draws in O industry professionals and keen aesthetes alike. Taking place in Olympia London from the 23rd to the 26th September, 100% Design showcases innovative work from architects, and product and interior designers. But it’s the emerging brands section that excites us, showcasing some of the newest global design talent.

 TENT LONDON & SUPER BRANDS tentlondon.co.uk

ith East London known for being the most creative area of London, the arrival of Tent London & Super Brands London during London Design Festival confirms just that. Hosted at The Old Truman Brewery, this design fair will be showcasing over W

78 18/08/2015 16:53

HOMES & INTERIORS / SPOTLIGHT 290 pieces of work from undiscovered, independent or established designers and brands. During the exhibit there will be a roster of seminars, installations and events. Make sure you explore sistershow, Super Brands London, where you’ll find some of the most progressive furniture, lighting and product design from around the world.

A Bullet from a Shooting Star by Alex Chinneck

 FOCUS/15 dcch.co.uk

ake a trip down to the Design Centre at Chelsea Harbour during the London Design Festival and expect to discover a plethora of beautiful, unique interior pieces. There will also be plenty of chances to engage with some of the most influential global names and experts, on the 21st September, for one day only. ◆ T

Must-see projects  A BULLET FROM A SHOOTING STAR alexchinneck.com

S

itting within the Greenwich Peninsula, A Bullet from a Shooting Star is an outdoor installation by renowned British sculptor Alex Chinneck. Made from steel, the large artwork pays tribute to the Greenwich Peninsula site’s rich industrial history, while making a comment about the change and development currently taking place in the area. Greenwich

Peninsula is currently undergoing a massive residential regeneration, with Hong Kong-based property developer Knight Dragon heading the project. The company is developing a brand new new district in the south East that, when completed, will offer around 15,000 new homes to city dwellers.

The size of the sculpture is big, making it a new landmark in the area.

It is modelled on an inverted electricity pylon that has been shot into the ground.

“Greenwich is the centre of world time, and I’m interested in the idea that the

sculpture intersects the Prime Meridian, acting as a giant sundial,” says the artist. Also during LDF, Alex Chinneck is showing a second sculpture at NOW Gallery, and limited edition prints of both artworks will be available to buy from his website.  YOU KNOW YOU CANNOT SEE YOURSELF SO WELL AS BY REFLECTION fridaescobedo.net

ictured to the left is the work of Mexican architect, Frida Escobedo. This installation will occupy the V&A for the duration of the festival and is called You Know You Cannot see Yourself So Well as by Reflection.This temporary pavilion is made up from reflective surfaces that have then been laid out in a grid formation, to reference to the Aztec city of Tenochtitlán in Mexico.

Escobedo’s concept was that through using reflective surfaces, she will be able to change the appearance of the garden and thus constructing a new narrative between two cultural landscapes. The title of the installation is a quote from Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar, and refers to both the literal reflectivity of the piece and the work’s philosophical inspirations.

The reflective surfaces “illustrate the conflicting nature between how we imagine ourselves, how we project ourselves, and how others perceive us,” explains Escobedo. ◆ P

Mexican Pavillion: ‘You Know You Cannot See Yourself So Well As By Reflection’ by Frida Escobedo

79 CHIS_SEP15_LONDON DESIGN FESTIVAL ROUND UP_v2.indd 79

SEPTEMBER 2015

18/08/2015 16:53

Whatever you are planning to build, we know that it is personal.

020 8245 1174 | enquiries@finerenovateltd.co.uk www.finerenovateltd.co.uk FINE RENOVATIONS.indd 1

18/08/2015 14:52

Our rather remarkable showroom in Chiswick, London is now open!

W&H Over 35 years of quality British craftsmanship

Sofa Beds | Sofas | Beds

Extensive fabric and customisation options

Luxury 14cm deep mattresses on all our sofa beds

Exceptional value compared to the high street

Call us on 0845 468 0577 or visit willowandhall.co.uk/absolutely for showroom information or to request free samples or a catalogue

_ADVERT PLACEMENTS_AUG.indd 4

18/08/2015 15:47

HOMES & INTERIORS / SPOTLIGHT The Ogham Wall, by Grafton Architects

10 of the best

brands showing at ldf DELIGHTFULL; delightfull.eu

MICHELE DE LUCCI FOR ALESSI, Pulcina; alessi.com

JASON MILLER FOR ROLL & HILL, Fiddlehead Pendant; rollandhill.com

CONSTANCE GUISSET,

Nubilo; constanceguiset.com

The piece COMMENTS on the WESTERN WORLD

 THE TOWER OF BABEL

Museum. The tower is comprised of 3,000 bone china shop fronts, precariously stacked, each depicting a real London shop modelled on the artist’s own photography. The piece comments on the western world’s obsession with shopping and the notion that material possessions will lead to a greater good. ◆

barnabybarford.co.uk

former student at the Royal College of Art, A Barnaby Barford is an artist who likes to work with a variety of medias. His most recent work, The Tower of Babel (so named after the biblical story of the Tower of Babel, in which a community attempts to reach heaven without God’s Will, resulting in the wrath of God) will be on display at the V&A The Tower of Babel,

by Barnaby Barford

Jujube; chairsandmore.it

STUART SCOTT

Isabella Slipper Chair; stuartscott.co.uk

 THE OGHAM WALL graftonarchitects.ie

oining forces with Irish Design 2015, London J Design Festival debut their major installation in the V&A’s Tapestry Gallery. The Ongam Wall was created as a means of celebrating Ireland’s creative talent. Both Grafton Architects and Graphics Relief worked to create this largescale installation, taking inspiration from the Irish Ogham alphabet, which dates back to the 4th century. The letters are reinterpreted as an architectural construct, above, with three-metrehigh cast concrete fins that have been arranged as abstract three dimensional alphabetic letter. ◆ The London Design Festival will run from 19 - 27 September; londondesignfestival.com

81 CHIS_SEP15_LONDON DESIGN FESTIVAL ROUND UP_v2.indd 81

CHAIRS & MORE

SÉ

Time Piece; se-london.com

MULLAN LIGHTING mullanlighting.com

SAGAL

Story chairs; sagalgroup.co.uk

PHILIPPE STARCK FOR ALESSI Limited Edition Juicy Salif in bronze; alessi.com

SEPTEMBER 2015

18/08/2015 16:53

XXXXXX / XXXXXXX

Treasure

SEEKER Absolutely joins Matt Goss in his Shoreditch antiques and interiors shop Pure White Lines to talk about his love of crafting and discovering W o r d s C at h e r i n e H a l e s

CATHERINE HALES: When did you open the shop on Hackney Road?

MATT GOSS: We opened in Shoreditch about three months ago. The business began in Sussex, as we’ve had a shops and workshops down there for about four years but got offered my dream premises at the end of Columbia Road flower market and jumped at the chance to return to London.

CH: How did that one come about?

MG: It started when I moved back from Australia. I was teaching and playing rugby down in Oz and I had been previously been a teacher at St. Charles College in West London, so it was a bit of a career change!

It started in a shipping container down in Sussex were we provided restoration of furniture for other shops and dealers.

Eventually that led to me opening the first shop in Haywards Heath which led to a second shop in Horsham. It opened on one floor and went to four floors within a year and then that gave me the opportunity to come back into London.

CH: Why Shoreditch?

MG: I’ve always lived East when I’ve lived in London – all of my friends and family are here and I know it really well. I used to spend my sundays on Columbia Road Market, so when the building was offered to me I couldn't resist jumping at it.

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

C&A_SEP15_MATT_GOSS.indd 82

Whatever people want: different sizes, colours − it can all be tailored.

CH: So, it’s quite bespoke?

MG: Yes, this marble table here, with the oak legs [points to enormous table], that’s made by us, and we do it in different sizes. We’ve just done a 19ft-long one for a huge country house that weighs 1.2 tonnes. We get more interesting stuff to make too. I love going out and planning, making suggestions.

WHEN you see something and LOVE IT, BUY IT CH: The overall look of the shop is pretty cohesive. Is there a look that you go for each time you change stock?

MG: Not really; I buy what I’d have in my own house. I do all of the buying and we also make quite a lot of our stock now. In terms of what we create for shops and restaurants, it is all custom-made in the workshop in Sussex where we have a metal worker, a really good joiner and good upholsterers.

CH: What’s been your oddest request?

MG: God, to make? Probably the 19ft long table with the inch-thick top I mentioned before. It was just so heavy. We had a 100 metre walk to get it in because you couldn’t get access around the walled gardens. It took eight of us to carry it. We managed to build it so it came in two pieces but it was one of those deliveries where you think, ‘Oh my God, I can’t wait for this to be over.’ But it’s also nice because it’ll probably be there for 100 years!

CH: Do you buy many of the antiques and the one-off pieces in the UK? MG: We buy all over Europe. We bring a lorry load home every couple of weeks and because I’ve been doing it for a while now I’ve got some really good contacts. As soon as they see something they think I’ll buy they’ll send me the pictures and I’ll say, ‘Yep, I’ll have that.’ When I’m over there buying from the big fairs in the South of France,

82 18/08/2015 16:13

HOMES & INTERIORS / SPOTLIGHT

83 C&A_SEP15_MATT_GOSS.indd 83

SEPTEMBER 2015

18/08/2015 16:13

Open season

Replacing beautiful timber windows and doors, beautifully

www.ayrtonbespoke.com Telephone 020 8877 8920 Email enquiries@ayrtonbespoke.com 406 Merton Road, London SW18 5AD

_ADVERT PLACEMENTS_AUG.indd 5

45 Hackney Road, Shoreditch, East London, E2 7NX. Tel. 0203 222 0137 Email. matt@purewhitelines.com Web. www.purewhitelines.com

18/08/2015 15:47

HOMES & INTERIORS / SPOTLIGHT I WOULD’NT like to have A HOUSE THAT’S kit out in one FASHION Belgium and Italy, we’ll always have a van to bring the stuff back to the UK. CH: Any favourite piece that’s come from Europe?

MG: My favourite piece is my Saint up there.

He’s from a church in Belgium and he was the first big decorative piece I bought.

He used to be in my bathroom, but since moving to London he’s become too big for my bathroom, so now he’s in the shop!

He’s just an interesting one-off purchase, something I’ll never find again and I like him sitting there watching over everything.

CH: What got you into this business?

MG: I suppose I’d always enjoyed doing up and restoring furniture and that’s what initially got me into it. I started doing work for other people and once I had a client base built, we just expanded. We always make sure customers are happy with what they’ve got and because of this they keep coming back, so it’s enabled us to grow.

CH: Pure White Lines was pretty organic?

MG: Yes, and a lot of people will buy really cool pieces and know that if they ever want to bring them back for a change, we can help with a part exchange or sale. We’ve got customers internationally now, so we send things to the States and all over Europe – our website helps.

CH: So, the service is very personal?

MG: Very. You also get people coming in looking for you to source bits. They send pictures of an area of their house and a description. Or with Pinterest they’ll send me a picture of what they’re looking for, and then when I see it at a fair I can either buy it or contact them to see what they think and it can then get brought back and they’ll have first option on it.

really transient because everything in there I sell. Last month, for instance, I sold my dining table and two huge old Eastern European leather pommel horses that I used as benches alongside it, so I’ve been eating dinner off my lap until I find something else that will fit in. I always say, ‘Everything is for sale.’ You love everything when you buy it but that’s the nature of the job. No matter how much you like it, if someone else loves it you will sell it and you’ll find something new.

That’s what I love doing; the buying is the fun.

CH: What advice would you give to people furnishing their London home?

MG: You’ve always got to buy with your heart. When you see something and you love it,buy it then and there. I’ve had so many people fall in love with something, come back a day later and it’s sold. I also don’t think you have to decorate your house with only old pieces, you can have a mixture. You’ve got to have two or three key bits in a room and then you can dress around those focal points.

CH: Does anyone come in and say, ‘I need something for this room, do you have any suggestions?’

MG: Yeah, all the time. I love that. We make things bespoke as well, we do everything from residential and restaurants through to some of London's biggest department stores and hotels.

CH: Is your own house full of stuff?

MG: My house is always

CH: I’ve been eyeing up those bar stools…

MG: They’ve come out of an old brothel we cleared in Cologne in Germany. We took a lot of the furniture, but they’re just the best quality bar stools I’ve ever seen. You can’t get anything of that quality anymore, or with that history. The colours, the years of people sitting on them have aged them really nicely. They just look cracking.

CH: Any upcoming projects?

MG: I’ve got a 5,000 sq ft barn opening in Sussex. The shop contains antiques all in a lovely setting, so people will be able to visit us in Sussex and explore while sipping on a coffee or prosecco. If people are kitting out something specific there’ll be lots of different examples to help inspire, and obviously all of the photos will be online.

CH: Any celeb clients?

MG: We do everyone. We’ve had a lot of rugby players, footballers, cricketers, actors – I won’t put any names out there but that’s one of the things that’s nice about the shop: we can cater for everyone. We’ve got everything from £5 candles to £20,000 tables. I always love people coming in here and seeing the new arrivals, a lot of people just stop in for a cup of coffee and a chat. Whether they buy something or not they love looking around and that’s what I always wanted with my shop, friendly unpretentious and welcoming. ◆ 45 Hackney Road, E2 7NX; purewhitelines.com

85 C&A_SEP15_MATT_GOSS.indd 85

CH: Do you have a favourite era?

MG: I buy everything from 17th century bits, old religious figures and statues through to 1980s really blingy lighting. I like to mix eras, I wouldn’t like to have a house that’s kitted out in one fashion.

SEPTEMBER 2015

18/08/2015 16:13

FIND

THE

HOME

YOU D E S E RVE

PL.indd 1 V1 PL Exclusive 420x297 2014 12 15.indd 5-6

03/08/2015 17:25

PL.indd 2

03/08/2015 16/12/2014 17:25 15:55

NO DIY SKILLS OR SIMPLY NO TIME? From the little jobs to the took-longer-than-you-realised jobs, our skilled handymen will quote and carry out whatever you require to keep your home or rental portfolio in great shape.

DECORATING / PLUMBING / CARPENTRY / FURNITURE ASSEMBLY / LANDSCAPING

FOR A FREE ESTIMATE

CALL TODAY ON

0208 802 4040

islington@myhome.co.uk • www.myhome.co.uk North London and surrounding areas MY HOME.indd 1

15/06/2015 11:26

PROPERTY ROUND UP p.94 IN THEIR OWN WORDS p.102 NIGEL LEWIS: FAMOUS PLACES p.110

REGENTS PARK ROAD NW1

ÂŁ3,500,000

his raised ground and garden floor apartment is in a beautifully restored Victorian building. Facing Primrose Hill and Regents Park, there are unobstructed park views at the front and open garden views from the rear. Other features include three open fireplaces, exquisite lighting fixtures and top-of-the-line appliances by Miele and Lacornue. u T

BELSIZE PARK

89 NXNW_Sept_Property_FC.indd 89

020 3815 3350

knightfrank.com

SEPTEMBER 2015

18/08/2015 16:48

50 years of fulfilling dreams

...for all generations

ONSLOW GARDENS, MUSWELL HILL, N10

£940,000 SOF

A three double bedroom duplex apartment arranged over the top two floors situated on the Highgate side of Muswell Hill.

THE OWNERS LOVE…

WE’VE NOTICED…

“Being a short walk from Highgate Tube is a real bonus for Muswell Hill, we also have Muswell Hill Broadway and Alexandra Palace within easy walking distance”

This apartment is arranged over 1346 SQFT with a 28’ x 15’ living room.

The 134 and 43 bus routes are accessed at the top of Onslow Gardens.

• 3 Bedrooms

“The great sense of space in the flat. There are fantastic high ceilings in the living room and kitchen, the garden is a sun trap and a great entertaining space”

• 2 Reception rooms • Large open plan living space • Bathroom and shower room • Private rear garden

“The street is lovely and quiet and there is also a sense of community that it can be difficult to find in London.

• Chain free • Period features • Highgate and Queens Woods nearby • EPC Rating: E

Contact Rowland Slinn at our Muswell Hill office on 020 8448 3388 MG_NXNW.indd 1

www.martyngerrard.co.uk 13/08/2015 11:29

50 years of fulfilling dreams

...for all generations

ANNINGTON ROAD, EAST FINCHLEY, N2

£1,175,000 FREEHOLD

Situated close to Muswell Hill’s Broadway is this bay-fronted, semidetached family home with a wealth of original period features.

THE OWNERS LOVE…

WE’VE NOTICED…

“This house has been a perfect family home with lovely neighbours.”

A side extension which has under gone a transformation into a studio space with separate entrance.

“Everything is accessible, fantastic shops, cinema, and great transport links, all on my doorstep.”

“Our house has endless potential, already with its own separate flat, and the opportunity to build up and over.”

There is a loft room which can be converted. (STPP) • 3 Double bedrooms with stripped wooden flooring • Family bathroom & separate WC • Loft room • Studio with kitchenette & bed • Utility room with garden access • Mature garden • EPC Rating: E

Contact Chris Fairclough at our East Finchley office on 020 8883 0077 MG_NXNW.indd 2

www.martyngerrard.co.uk 13/08/2015 11:29

50 years of fulfilling dreams

...for all generations

WARNER ROAD, CROUCH END, N8

£1,350,000 FREEHOLD

A four bedroom Edwardian family house, with a large west facing garden and lots of period character.

THE OWNERS LOVE…

WE’VE NOTICED…

“ It’s a nice place to live, with a unique layout giving a sense of space and light, a combination of period and open plan”

The W3 and W7 bus routes to Finsbury Park pass along nearby Priory Road and Park Road respectively.

• 4 Bedrooms

“Original features and detailing; a mature west facing sunny garden for relaxing or growing”

• 2 Reception rooms • Kitchen/diner open to rear reception • 16m (52’) west facing garden

“A friendly quiet neighbourhood, good neighbours, an active residents’ association and easy access to shops and open spaces”

• Large loft room / study • Family bathroom & extra WC • Fireplaces, cornicing & stained glass • Close to Alexandra & Priory parks • EPC Rating: E

Contact Mark Fordham at our Crouch End office on 020 8348 5135 MG_NXNW.indd 3

www.martyngerrard.co.uk 13/08/2015 11:29

50 years of fulfilling dreams

...for all generations

ST PANCRAS WAY, CAMDEN, NW1

£1,700,000 FREEHOLD

A grand five bedroom period house situated close to Camden Road and Camden Town Station.

THE OWNERS LOVE…

WE’VE NOTICED…

“You can get practically anywhere in London (even Richmond!) quickly and cheaply via bus, tube or overground.

Camden Road Station provides amazing overground links and is a couple of minutes away”

Close proximity to the College Francais Bilingue de Londres on Holmes Road.

“So close to the Roundhouse, the Monarch, the Forum and the other music venues in Camden. You have the Stables Market close by, you are also 10 mins from Primrose Hill or 20 mins from Hampstead Heath” “We have recently rented the property out to young professionals, being able to receive a great rental income”

This property is being sold with no chain.

• 5 Double bedrooms • 2 Kitchens • 2 Bathrooms • Period features • Private garden • Chain free • EPC Rating: D

Contact Anthony W-Denny at our Kentish Town office on 020 7267 3737 MG_NXNW.indd 4

www.martyngerrard.co.uk 13/08/2015 11:29

PROPERTY ROUND UP The inside scoop in your area

JAMESTOWN ROAD, LONDON, NW1 £750PW

HOUSE HUNTING

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN IN THIS AREA?

I started working in this area 15 months ago having been a negotiator in our Little Venice branch for just over six years. I moved to Camden for a new challenge and it’s been great!

WHAT IS YOUR ETHOS?

CHAZ CLAASE

Associate Director Chestertons

I share my knowledge and experience within the team because that’s the key to longevity. My long-term goal is to create a service that people trust and to do that you need a strong group of people to work well together.

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE PROPERTIES RIGHT NOW?

First floor period conversions are charming.

MY LONGTERM GOAL IS TO CREATE A SERVICE THAT PEOPLE TRUST

HOUSE HUNTING

THE BISHOPS AVENUE  N2

£4,000,000 ecorated with character and style, this detached house has large front and back gardens with a detached double garage. Set back from the road,

D

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

NXNW_SEP15_Prop_News_indd.indd 94

MARKET PREDICTIONS FOR THE COMING MONTHS?

With the student market in full force the market will be starved of two to four bedroom properties. So, any investor landlords who work to this market will see greater rewards. ◆

CHESTERTONS Camden and Primrose Hill Branch 020 7267 2053; chestertons.com

this home offers spacious accommodation over three floors with six bedrooms, two bathrooms, four reception rooms and a modern kitchen. With ample entertainment space, this home is conveniently locate in the Hampstead Garden Suburb Conservation Area and gives you access to North London’s best open spaces, shops and transport links. ◆ Martyn Gerrard East Finchley, 020 8883 0033; prickettandellis.com

94 18/08/2015 17:11

PROPERTY / NEWS

NEWS

A DV I C E

SAYRHA ELAHI

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

ESTAS The ESTAS follow the BAFTAS to a new home for 2016

After five years at the Hilton Park Lane, the ESTAS – the largest awards in the residential agency industry – is moving to Grosvenor House Hotel. As Simon Brown, MD at the ESTAS Group explains, “The demand for tickets has increased dramatically so we’re delighted to announce that the ESTAS will now take place in the same space as the

THE DEMAND FOR TICKETS HAS INCREASED DRAMATICALLY BAFTAS party. Now, more than 1,000 of the UK’s top property professionals can join us on 15 April 2016.”

Once again, Phil Spencer will present the ceremony that sees agents, brokers and conveyancers selected as winners based purely on client feedback. Leaving with the most powerful marketing message, winners can also say they’ve shared the stage with the UK’s best loved property expert!  To find out more about The ESTAS and how your firm can get involved go to theestas.com

Q&A F E AT U R E P R O P E R T Y

ST JOHN’S GROVE  N19

£465

Per Week

his two bedroom apartment is situated on the ground floor of a wellmaintained period conversion, close to the amenities of Archway. The homely property comprises of a large reception/dining room with dark wood floor

T

and feature fireplace. This opens out to an idyllic south-facing garden while the recently refurbished kitchen has been finished to a high standard. The two bedrooms benefit from gorgeous natural light.

Archway offers a good selection of high street shops, cafés, bars and restaurants, while the leafy Highgate is only a short distance away. ◆ Benham & Reeves Residential Lettings Highgate, 020 8341 2335; brlets.co.uk

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

LYNMOUTH ROAD

 East Finchley, N2

£1,275,000

ituated between Muswell Hill Broadway and East Finchley station, close to Tetherdown Primary school and Fortismere Secondary school, this four bedroom semi-detached Victorian house is ideal for a growing family. Features include stripped wooden flooring, period fireplaces and a landscaped garden. ◆

S

Martyn Gerrard East Finchley, 020 8883 0077; martyngerrard.co.uk

WE ARE A BLOCK OF FOUR FLATS WITH 99 YEAR LEASES. THE FREEHOLD HAS BEEN SOLD WITHOUT BEING OFFERED TO US. WHAT CAN WE DO?

The Right of First Refusal under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1987 may apply.

T O Q U A L I F Y:

 your building must contain at least two flats;  commercial premises must not comprise more than 50% of the building and  more than 50% of the flats in the building must be held by ‘qualifying tenants’.

You seem to fulfil 1 and 3 above.

Assuming that you fulfil all three requirements then where the freehold has been sold and the statutory requirements have not been met, this is an illegal disposal. It is a criminal offence to make a ‘relevant disposal’ without offering the Right of First Refusal to the qualifying tenants.

You and your fellow leaseholders may have rights of enforcement against the new landlord and may be able to take the benefit of the contract between the old and new, which means that the new landlord can be compelled to sell the freehold interest to you at the same price. You must act swiftly however, as any action must be taken within six months of discovery.

Certain transfers are exempt, such as between family members, a trust or to an associated company provided that the company has been associated with the landlord for at least two years. ◆ 80 Upper Street, Islington, N1 0NU colmancoyle.com

SPOTLIGHT ON [ AVERAGE ASKING PRICE ]

[ AVERAGE PROPERTY VALUE ]

£967,880 N10 £759,859

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

Data provided by zoopla.co.uk

95 NXNW_SEP15_Prop_News_indd.indd 95

SEPTEMBER 2015

18/08/2015 17:15

Completely at home in North London.

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

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

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

KFH.indd 1 09.15_KFH_Brand Advert.indd 1

12/08/2015 12:07 17:04 10/08/2015

Denton Road, Crouch End, N8 £725,000

A stunning and award winning, architecturally designed, two bedroom detached house offering private outdoor space and state of the art modern living.

Situated in Crouch End, near Harringay train station.

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

KFH.indd 09.15 KFH 2 Abs NXNW.indd 2

• • • • • • • • • •

Detached house Two bedrooms Private courtyard garden Spacious reception Open plan kitchen diner Beautifully designed Excellent location Chain free Freehold EPC rating C

12/08/2015 12:06 17:04 10/08/2015

Broughton Avenue, Finchley, N3 £1,849,995 Finchley 020 8970 7856 finchley.sales@kfh.co.uk

KFH.indd 09.15 KFH 3 Abs NXNW.indd 3

A luxuriously appointed and spacious detached house offering over 3,540 sq ft of accommodated arranged over four levels.

Situated in a quiet location, just off Hendon Lane, offering easy access into Central London.

• • • • • • • • •

Seven bedrooms Four bathrooms Cinema room Gym Under floor heating Snooker room Chain free Freehold EPC rating C

12/08/2015 12:06 17:04 10/08/2015

Recently sold properties.

Using our network of more than 50 branches across the Capital, our specialist teams can find the right property for you. To see all of our properties visit www.kfh.co.uk

Recently sold.

Muswell Avenue, Muswell Hill, N10

Recently sold.

Brewster Gardens, Holland Park, W10

Recently sold.

Dorville Crescent, Hammersmith, W6

KFH.indd 09.15 KFH 4 Abs NXNW.indd 4

Recently sold.

Friern Park, North Finchley, N12

Recently sold.

St Paul Street, Islington, N1

Recently sold.

Redston Road, Crouch End, N8

Recently sold.

Priory Gardens, Highgate, N6

Recently sold.

Sinclair Road, Brook Green, W14

Recently sold.

Sumatra Road, West Hampstead, NW6

12/08/2015 12:06 17:05 10/08/2015

Park Road, Crouch End, N8 £930pcm

A recently refurbished studio flat benefiting from wood flooring throughout. This property is located in the centre of Crouch End Broadway.

• • • • • •

Studio flat Modern Wood flooring Close to Crouch End Broadway Furnished EPC rating C

Crouch End 020 8341 1110 crouchend.lettings@kfh.co.uk £210 tenancy agreement fee per property. Other fees apply, visit kfh.co.uk/lettingsfees

KFH.indd 09.15 KFH 5 Abs NXNW.indd 5

12/08/2015 12:06 17:05 10/08/2015

Cotleigh Road, West Hampstead, NW6 £3,575pcm

A stunning three bedroom flat offered in excellent condition throughout. The property has a beautiful living room with semi open plan kitchen.

• • • • • •

Period conversion Three double bedrooms Newly refurbished Stunning living room and kitchen Furnished EPC rating D

West Hampstead 020 7604 5150 westhampstead.lettings@kfh.co.uk £210 tenancy agreement fee per property. Other fees apply, visit kfh.co.uk/lettingsfees

KFH.indd 09.15 KFH 6 Abs NXNW.indd 6

12/08/2015 12:06 17:05 10/08/2015

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

NXNW_Sept15_ITOW.indd 102

102 18/08/2015 14:28

PROPERTY / PROFILE

IN THEIR OWN

WORDS

JAMES RIPP

Sales Manager at Kinleigh Folkard & Hayward West Hampstead Photography

R E B ECCA N O O N A N

F

uelled by early memories of riding around on my BMX and watching Evil Knievel, my youth was full of aspirations of becoming a stunt man. Unfortunately, it never transpired. The property industry was a much more realistic career prospect so, while I spent my teenage years with plans to become an interior designer, I decided to pursue a career in estate agency.

Just before my eighteenth birthday, I secured my first role as an apprentice for a company in Kentish Town. The first few years were hard. I was working seven days a week, but relished it. Especially seeing the different interpretations of how people live and how they adapt and change their properties to fit their own individual personalities and needs.

This passion led me to my second role, also in Kentish

THE SALES MARKET IN WEST HAMPSTEAD IS STRONG Town, where I progressed from a sales negotiator to managing the branch within five years. In June 2004, I joined Kinleigh Folkard & Hayward’s Muswell Hill branch, moving into a sales manager position in Belsize Park a couple of years later, before finally relocating to our West Hampstead branch in 2011.

I have always appreciated the community of West Hampstead.

It has a plethora of shopping, dining and drinking amenities.

More recently, the weekly food markets and weekend farmers’ market have enhanced the area’s appeal. These welcome changes have ensured a steady influx of new buyers, as well as residents looking to upsize or downsize locally.

West Hampstead is popular

but its village-like feel and abundance of properties, spanning all architectural styles, makes it stand out. From the striking Victorian red brick homes and impressive mansion blocks lining the neighbourhood’s streets, through to Art Deco influences injected into several properties.

The area is also seeing a surge of new build developments along West End Lane, helping to modernise the local landscape and provide further housing for North West London.

The sales market in West Hampstead is strong and the quality of buyers in the first half of the year has been very good. Continuous positivity has ensured that house prices remain on the up – they are currently 10.2% higher than this time last year. This means that a two-bedroom apartment now costs between £600,000 and £1,000,000, while a fourbedroom family home can reach in excess of £1,600,000. ◆

K i n lei g h Fol k a r d & H ay wa r d / 020 7328 2238 / kfh.co.uk

103 NXNW_Sept15_ITOW.indd 103

SEPTEMBER 2015

18/08/2015 14:29

Grove Avenue, Muswell Hill, N10

£1,950,000 Freehold. Sole Agents

Rosebery Road, Muswell Hill, N10

£1,325,000 Freehold. Sole Agents

A superb five bedroomed part linked detached bay fronted house offering extremely spacious well-proportioned family accommodation over two floors (2803 sq ft). The property benefits from a single storey side and rear extension providing a spectacular open plan kitchen/dining/living area leading to a super 117’ south-west facing garden. This character home is offered in excellent condition having been tastefully modernized and decorated throughout. Benefiting from off street parking and shared driveway to garage. Situated in this highly sought after road which is within a short distance from Muswell Hill Broadway, also in catchment for Rhodes Avenue primary and Alexandra Park secondary schools. Alexandra Park, Palace and main line station with access to the City are also close by.

Contact our Muswell Hill Office on 020 8444 1771

Retaining a wealth of charm and character is a substantial four bedroom, two bathroom, mid terraced Edwardian family residence.

This bright and well-proportioned home retains many original period features throughout whilst requiring some updating. Added benefits include a useful office/loft room and at the rear is a secluded and well stocked sunny garden. The house is situated in a wide tree lined road which is within a short distance from Muswell Hill Broadway and its vast selection of boutique shops and restaurants; also a short walk from Alexandra Park, Palace and its main line station providing easy access to the City (Moorgate and Old Street), there are excellent bus services to Bounds Green tube (Piccadilly Line) from Alexandra Park Road. Within catchment of Rhodes Avenue primary and Alexandra Park secondary schools.

Contact our Muswell Hill Office on 020 8444 1771

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

17/08/2015 14:49

www.tatlers.co.uk

Briston Grove, Crouch End, N8

£1,229,950 Freehold. Sole Agents

Park Hall Road, East Finchley, N2

£649,950 Leasehold. Sole Agents

We are delighted to offer to the market this much loved home. Enjoying an elevated position in a quiet road and located in one of Crouch Ends most sought after sectors it is perfectly placed to access all the shops, cafes, restaurants and amenities the area has to offer. With good transport links into central London, Crouch Hill station is within walking distance and the W7 is a short bus ride to Finsbury Park station. The property boasts features relative to its period with an imposing oak staircase leading to the upper floors. The kitchen is open plan to the dining room which leads to the rear garden. Two of the four bedrooms benefit from en – suite shower rooms. Situated close to Ashmount and Coleridge primary schools this property has all the necessary components for a family house and viewing comes highly recommended.

Contact our East Finchley Office on 020 8883 1001

Tatlers are delighted to offer this first Floor three bedroom apartment situated on a quiet residential street. The apartment benefits from a reception room, fitted kitchen, bathroom, good storage space and some period features. The property is offered in excellent condition throughout. Excellent transport connections via Northern line (East Finchley) and buses and it’s just a short walk from Queens Woods and Highgate Golf Club grounds. Muswell Hill Broadway shops are a short walk away.

Contact our East Finchley office on 020 8883 1001

TATLERS_NXNW.indd 2

17/08/2015 14:49

020 8348 5515 crouchend@castles.london

www.castles.london

Clifton Road, N8

ÂŁ2,300,000 Freehold

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

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

Wolseley Road, N8

ÂŁ699,999 SOFH

A charming and unique, two double-bedroom, split-level, top floor conversion with roof-terrace. Set within an imposing period residence on the Highgate periphery within close proximity to the desired amenities of Crouch End Broadway and a short walk to Highgate underground station. Further comprising kitchen, reception, bathroom, and "study" area on mezzanine floor. Benefiting from tranquil views including Alexandra Palace.

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

10/08/2015 12:05

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

CASTLES.indd 1

15/10/2014 11:51

Edis Street, Primrose Hill NW1 Unique duplex apartment

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

Finished to the highest specification, this beautifully presented two bedroom duplex apartment is situated within a double aspect end of terrace property. As well as boasting the finest panoramic views of London, Primrose Hill has one of the most picturesque high streets in the whole country. Crescent shaped, it hosts an eclectic mix of bookshops, cafes and restaurants, giving the area a village feel. 2 bedrooms (both en suite), kitchen/breakfast room, reception room, terrace. EPC: D. Approximately 109.53 sq m (1,179 sq ft).

Share of freehold

Guide price: £2,150,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/BSZ150020

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

KF.indd 1

Absolutely September 2015 -v2

11/08/2015 11:51

06/08/2015 11:17:17

Photograph of the Plimsoll Building show apartment

Apartments at King’s Cross You have 6 tube lines, 3 mainline stations and a Eurostar.

Live just 5 minutes from Oxford Circus, Piccadilly Circus and Covent Garden and a mere 8 minutes from Victoria.

Live in Tomorrow’s World You have schools, restaurants, parks and fountains; you have shops, squares and the joys of a canal; you have the best national and international connections in London and an extraordinary choice of some of the capital’s most fabulous homes. Come and visit.

plimsollkingscross.co.uk

PLIMSOL.indd 1 AbsolutelyCityandAngel_210mmx297mm.indd 1

Please contact us at: enquiries@livingatkingscross.co.uk or call +44 (0)20 7205 4166 Marketing suite: 14–15 Stable Street, King’s Cross, London N1C 4AB

www.kingscross.co.uk

14/08/2015 16:13 14:17

ÂŁ2.25m

FAMOUS PLACES

Every square mile of London hides a plethora of celebrity homes. Each month a clutch of these go on the market. Here are the more recent ones with a famous connection Words NI G EL L EWI S

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

Sept15_Property_Famous_Places.indd 110

ONE OF THE FIRST FROM FOSTER

Hampstead ll you need is a passing interest in London’s architecture to recognise the name Norman Foster.

Particularly if you work near his most famous creations such as The Gherkin, Millennium Bridge or City Hall.

But, for the more ardent Foster fan, a piece of his early design work is now up for sale: a two-bedroom townhouse in Hampstead. The converted coach house is a rare project from him and was commissioned early on in his

A

110 18/08/2015 14:55

PROPERTY / HOMES WITH HERITAGE career. The property is now on the market for the first time since its 1960s makeover for £2.25m and is in largely original condition. u The Modern House 020 7704 3504; themodernhouse.net

£6m

THIS PROPERTY SAW ENOUGH ESPIONAGE TO KEEP THE KEENEST DOUBLE-AGENT BUSY

WHERE HIPSTERS FIRST GATHERED

Shoreditch hile Florence and the Machine headlined at Glastonbury this summer, we must remember the days they played small gigs at a tea room in Shoreditch. The 1940s-themed establishment, called Time for Tea, was within a quirky Georgian house, which is now for sale.

In its noughties hey-day, the property was used as a gathering place for London’s first hipsters and featured in several period TV productions and fashion shoots.

Dramas filmed inside the building include ITV’s The Bletchley Circle and the BBC’s The Long Firm, which cast it as a 60s Soho porn shop. It was also used in a Vogue spread with Lily Cole.

The owner, modern-day dandy and ‘King of Shoreditch’ Johnny Vercoutre, paid £95,000 for the then derelict building in 1995. It’s now on the market for £2.35m. u Fyfe Mcdade 020 7613 4044; fyfemcdade.com

W

THE SPY HOUSE THAT SAVED US?

Chelsea

he murky world of the spy rarely gets a public airing, but this property in Chelsea saw enough espionage comings and goings to keep the keenest double-agent busy.

Situated on Upper Cheyne Row, this is the former home of Greville Wynne, who became one of Britain’s foremost spies during the Cold War. Having met senior Russian military intelligence officer, Colonel Oleg Penkovsky, Wynne got hold of huge amounts of intelligence that would prove to be of immense value during

T

£2.35m

the Cuban Missile Crisis. While Penkovsky is often referred to as the “spy who saved the world,” one could argue Wynne did.

The property, which has a southfacing garden and roof terrace, comes with a private one-bed cottage at the rear and is on the market for £6m. u Russell Simpson 020 7225 0277; russellsimpson.co.uk

BOXING HISTORY GOES UNDER THE HAMMER

Old Kent Road oxing legend Sir Henry Cooper was a familiar face on TV for decades; both as a commentator and promoter of everything from cereal to aftershave, once urging the nation to “splash it all over”.

The former British, European and Commonwealth heavyweight champion trained in a boxing gym above this Old Kent Road boozer in the ‘50s and ‘60s. Muhammed Ali and Joe Frazier also dropped by for sparring practice, and there’s a blue plaque outside of the pub, The Thomas A Becket, unveiled by ‘Our Enery’ in 2007. The property is up for auction by Savills with a guide price of £1.9m. u Savills 020 7824 9091; savills.co.uk

B

£1.9m

111 Sept15_Property_Famous_Places.indd 111

SEPTEMBER 2015

18/08/2015 14:55

Prowse Place

Camden NW1

A wonderful mid-terrace Victorian house full of charm & character, situated along a quiet cobbled street. The property benefits from a large reception/dining room, 2 bedrooms, a modern bathroom with under floor heating & modern appliances. The property further benefits from a south west facing patio garden.

EPC rating D

ÂŁ999,995 freehold

Camden

020 7267 2053

sales.camden@chestertons.com

chestertons.com

CHESTERTONS.indd 1

10/08/2015 12:11

LANDMARK LIVING WILLESDEN GREEN | NW10

An iconic new development of 1 & 2 bedroom apartments available through shared ownership • In the heart of Willesden Green (zone 2) • 4 mins * walk from Willesden Green tube

• Balconies or terraces to all apartments • Prices from £124,950** – based on a 35 % share***

Viewing by appointment only.

To register your interest or book an appointment, please call:

0808 118 3060 (local rate)

* Travel times taken from Google Maps. **Based on a 35 % share of a 1 bedroom apartment (market price £357,000). *** Rent is payable on the remaining share. Terms and conditions apply. Prices correct at time of going to press.

ELECTRICHOUSE.indd 1

13/08/2015 09:29

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

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

Andrew

Partner Residential Property

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

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

PROPERTY LAW SERVICE

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

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

www.colmancoyle.com

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

1984 - 2014

anniversary

Celebrating 30 YEARS in business | 1984 - 2014

10/02/2014 10:24

SPONSORED BY

ARE YOU GETTING THE SERVICE YOU DESERVE? The ESTAS is a national customer service award scheme for estate & letting agents, mortgage brokers & conveyancers.

The ESTAS are unique because shortlisted and winning firms are selected purely on ratings from clients.

Companies registered with The ESTAS are committed to giving you the best possible service they can and whatever your experience, you’ll have the chance to complete a survey providing valuable feedback.

To find out more visit our website

theestas.com

SPONSORED BY

ESTAS.indd 1

27/03/2015 14:30

£13.95 Million

FIVE-BEDROOM HOUSE, RANDOLPH ROAD, MAIDA VALE CONSERVATION AREA, W9, £13.95M. ASTON CHASE 020 7724 4724

£2.35 Million

TOP TEN CONSERVATION ARE AS IN LONDON 01 .

02.

03.

04.

05.

06.

0 7.

08.

0 9.

1 0.

£2.35 Million

SIX-BEDROOM HOUSE IN GRAND AVENUE, MUSWELL HILL CONSERVATION AREA, N10, £2.35M. KFH, 020 3199 8068

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

Chis_Sept15_NL_Conservation.indd 116

Richmond-upon-T hames Lambeth Tower Hamlets West minster Bromle y Wand swor th Hammersmith & F ulham Isling ton Camden Kensing ton & Chelsea

116 18/08/2015 14:57

PROPERTY / PRESERVATION NIGEL LEWIS

CONSERVATION CRAZY Is London becoming one huge conservation area?

Y

ou may not realise it but more and more areas of London are being hyperprotected from change. There are 1,014 conservation areas in London (out of 10,000 nationally) that are increasingly eating up streets in the capital – with new areas being proposed in Brockley, South London as well as Dalston and Stratford.

Some boroughs are keener than others: Lambeth, Tower Hamlets, Richmond-upon-Thames and Westminster all have more than 50 conservation areas – the average is around 30 – while Barking and Dagenham have just four. Croydon gets the top gong though, with nine of its 20 conservation areas created during a flurry of activity during 2008. Yet London is unique: it’s the only city in which Historic England can designate conservation areas as well as local planning authorities.

But what exactly is a conservation area? Officially, it’s an area of ‘special historic or architectural interest,’ but they vary enormously and include small passageways, parks, industrial and transport heritage sites, remnants of small villages, town centres and, sometimes, entire areas – West Putney being a good example. Some

FIGURES SHOW THAT CONSERVATION IS GOOD FOR HOUSE PRICES

are stranger, like Botwell in Hayes, which contains the site of Nestlé’s former coffee factory.

So, what is it like to live in a conservation area? One thing is for sure: figures show that conservation is good for house prices. In 2012 the London School of Economics (LSE) completed an exhaustive study of house prices and the results were eye-popping: raw data showed that conservation areas had a price premium of 23.1%, while even those waiting to become one were 16.5% more expensive than surrounding areas. Even if you take out factors such as existing architectural beauty and location, the research showed that even at a most conservative estimate, the price boost is between 8.5% and 9.5%.

Also, conservation areas tend to rise in value faster than others – by 0.2%.

What’s also interesting is that the people who live in conservation areas don’t mind the sometimes draconian architectural and planning laws that come with residency. The LSE canvassed residents in ten different areas and most, regardless of the downsides, appreciated their green, residential environment, neighbourliness and community spirit. These qualities must be amazing as the rules of living in a conservation are tough.

For example, Hounslow’s conservation area around Gunnersbury Gardens Estate and Bedford Park regulates a range of alterations that include extensions, minor works, extra porches, exterior painting, new fencing, vehicle access and hardstanding – many changes that outside a conservation area would be allowed.

117 Chis_Sept15_NL_Conservation.indd 117

£2.75 Million

SEVEN-BEDROOM HOUSE, MANVILLE ROAD, HEAVER CONSERVATION AREA, SW17, £2.75M. SAVILLS CLAPHAM, 020 8673 4111

Conservation areas are not always leafy suburbs, with 85% of Westminster and 70% of Kensington and Chelsea protected within a conservation area. Meanwhile the early Georgian streets in the Elder Street conservation area, Spitalfields were recently saved from the developers’ wrecking ball.

But what do you do if you have a more modest development proposal? The overriding question you need to ask yourself is whether the changes will ‘enhance’ or ‘preserve’ the area’s character. For example, an innovative new-build might enhance the area while an ugly extension wouldn’t preserve it. You have to “carefully assess what’s there, and how your new design measures up against the existing,” says Housebuilding & Renovating magazine’s design expert, Pete Tonks. But whether such considerations stretch to the world of aspic preservation, is for you to decide. u

SEPTEMBER 2015

18/08/2015 14:57

105,091 seaside homes 5,684 have a sea view

“ Seaside homes” are defined as homes in seaside towns in the UK that are listed for rent or sale on Zoopla. Seaside homes that “have a sea view” are the those that have “sea view” / “view of the sea” / “ocean view” / “view of the ocean” as keywords in their listing. Zoopla data extracted on 6 July 2015.

ZOOPLA.indd 1 210x297_2015 08 03.indd 3 V1 ZOOPLA Zest

17:36 03/08/2015 16:05

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

0207 099 4000 or email Abigail@portico.com

SALES

MAINTENANCE

LE T TINGS

portico.com

PORTICO_CORP.indd 1 Absolutely Magazine ad_AWK.indd 1

12:02 15/06/2015 11:46

OVAL ROAD, CAMDEN, NW1 ÂŁ1,399,950

KE Y FE AT URES Two Bedrooms Terraced House Roof Terrace Garden Off Street Parking Modern Interior Throughout Designed by Ted Levy

PORTICO.indd 1

17/08/2015 17:06

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

portico.com

PALGRAVE GARDENS, MARYLEBONE, NW1 ÂŁ1100 P/ W

KE Y FE AT URES Luxury Penthouse Three Double Bedrooms Three Bathrooms Roof Terrace Underground Parking Swimming Pool & Gym

PORTICO.indd 2

17/08/2015 17:07

Hampstead

ÂŁ450 pw Furnished

1 Bedroom | Reception | 1 Bathroom | Apartment Balcony | Near Tube & Amenities | EPC - D | Sole Agents Hampstead 020 3503 0908 hamp@brlets.co.uk

Thirteen offices open six days a week Monday - Saturday Canary Wharf | City | Colindale | Ealing | Fulham | Greenwich | Hammersmith | Hampstead | Highgate | Hyde Park | Kensington | Knightsbridge | Wapping Additional charges apply: Tenancy Agreement, Credit Check & Inventory Report. For details visit www.brlets.co.uk/tenantinfo

B&R_NXNW_V3.indd 2

18/08/2015 09:50