CHELSEA, FULHAM NOTTING HILL, KENSINGTON APRIL 2017 / £3.95
A TRIBE CALLED WEST
TOMMI MIERS THE NEW MRS BEETON
Penelope Chilvers’ Portobello people
HENRY HOLLAND
FROM FASHION TO INTERIORS
Life in
COLOUR THE FUTURE’S BRIGHT STYLISH / INTELLIGENT / ELEGANT COVERS_NH_April_2017.indd 1
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Furniture makers - Redefining bespoke Visit your nearest London showroom Chelsea 84 Fulham Road SW3 6HR T: 020 7584 5736 NEW Notting Hill 102 Westbourne Grove W2 5RU T: 020 7243 2315 Clackersbrook Farm Bromham Wiltshire SN15 2JJ T: 01380 859299 E-mail: enq@mccarronandco.com www.mccarronandco.com
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INDIAN OCEAN.indd 1 Ab H - Chiswick/City&Angel/Cheslea/Kensington/Blackheath&Greenwich.indd 1
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CAMBRIDGE GARDENS, LADBROKE GROVE A stunning period Villa apartment newly refurbished throughout with modern furnishings and high end appliances. The property is located on a quiet residential road with Notting Hill and Ladbroke Grove tube station (Circle and Hammersmith and City) is within walking distance. EPC = C.
3
2
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ASKING PRICE
£1,050,000 FULHAM 020 7610 9755
SEDLESCOMBE ROAD, FULHAM A beautifully presented spacious Victorian property located a short walk from Fulham Broadway and West Brompton (District and Overground lines) and the abundance of shops and restaurants. EPC = TBC.
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ASKING PRICE
£1,650,000 FULHAM 020 7610 9755
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Chiswick Hammersmith West Kensington Fulham Chelsea
Kew Sheen Twickenham Teddington Kingston
Battersea Clapham Putney Barnes Richmond
featherstoneleigh.co.uk
CRABTREE LANE, FULHAM A stunning Edwardian house complete with original features including fireplace and cornicing throughout. Positioned on a quiet residential road close to the River Thames and within 10 min walk to Hammersmith Broadway (Piccadilly, District and Hammersmith and City) this is a very well positioned and well balanced house. EPC = TBC.
ASKING PRICE
ÂŁ1,499,950
FSL.indd 2
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FULHAM 020 7610 9755
23/03/2017 11:46
www.armaniroca.com
A new bathroom concept Edwins Bathrooms London 020 7221 3550 www.edwinsbathrooms.co.uk • Hovingham of Harrogate 01423 529 991 www.hovinghamofharrogate.co.uk J.A.Clarke & Co Leicester 0116 251 5111 www.jaclarke.co.uk • Napier Bathrooms & Interiors Edinburgh 0131 556 6166 www.napierinteriors.co.uk Obsidian Cheltenham 01242 237 241 www.obsidian.ws • Soaks Bathrooms Belfast 028 9068 112 www.soaksbathrooms.com Staffan Tollgard London 020 7952 6070 www.tollgard.co.uk • Waterloo Bathrooms Co.Dublin 00 353 1 284 2100 www.waterloo.ie
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Apr il 2017
66 c u lt u r e
12 16 19
ABSOLUTELY LOVES
10 things we’re coveting this month
WHAT’S ON
Diary dates for April
21 24 PORTOBELLO PEOPLE Penelope Chilvers and her fans
29 GET THE LOOK
Check out the chequered look
H E A LT H & B E AU T Y
STOMP
42 BEAUTY CONFIDENTIAL
fa s h i o n
45 GLITTER BALL
25 years of pure percussion
22 FASHION CONFIDENTIAL This month’s hottest trends and products
The month’s best beauty buys Our favourite sparkly things
Food & Drink
49 66 HENRY HOLLAND Clashing colours for Habitat
50 KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL News from the industry
53 EGG-STRAVAGANZA Easter's most extravagant eggs
54 THOMASINA MIERS At home with the cook
Covers:
ELLI LINES e l l i e l i n e s .c o.u k
INTERIORS
62 INTERIOR INSPIRATIONS News and views
9 NH_April17_Contents.indd 9
t r av e l
81
UK GETAWAY
We absolutely love the Cornish coast
PROPERTY
94 PROPERTY NEWS
The best investments in London
128 LUXURY LETTINGS Our pick of the market
absolutely.london
23/03/2017 12:47
EDITOR PENDLE HARTE DIGITAL EDITOR HANNAH HOPKINS EDUCATION EDITOR AMANDA CONSTANCE ASSISTANT EDITOR HELEN BROWN FASHION & BEAUTY WRITER JOY MONTGOMERY SALES MANAGER VICTORIA HUGHES SALES EXECUTIVE ANJNI THAKAR SALES DIRECTOR ROLLO DENNISON COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR LEAH DAY-ABALOS PROPERTY DIRECTOR ANDY ELMER PROPERTY EDITOR TAMAR VANDERHOEK ART DIRECTOR PHIL COUZENS SENIOR DESIGNER PAWEL KUBA PRODUCTION MANAGER CHRIS COUCHMAN MID-WEIGHT DESIGNER EKREM YILMAZ DESIGNER REBECCA NOONAN MARKETING MANAGER NEFELI KRITIKOU FINANCIAL CONTROLLER JERRIE KOLECI CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER ALEXANDRA HVID DIRECTOR ALEXANDRA HUNTER MANAGING DIRECTOR SHERIF SHALTOUT PA TO DIRECTORS KERRY HOLLINGSWORTH For editorial enquiries please email: pendle@zest-media.com For advertising enquiries please call 020 7704 0588 or email: advertising@zest-media.com
First Floor, 197 City Road, London EC1V 1JN T: 020 7704 0588 F: 020 7900 3020 zest.london 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 Fa c e b o o k @ABSOLUTELYMAGAZINES T wi t t e r & In s t a g ra m @ABSOLUTELY_MAGS We b si t e
a b s o l u t e l y. l o n d o n
VELORUTION.indd 1 NH_APR17_FLANEL.indd 10
14/12/2016 15:34
23/03/2017 11:29
Editor’s LETTER
S
So with Easter on the horizon and the impending influx of chocolate eggs (not to mention chocolate chicks, chocolate dolls and chocolate bunnies) we're taking Lent very seriously and giving up lots of things. One thing we haven't been able to give up, however, is shopping, especially when it comes to shoes, and especiallt when it comes to shoes from Portobello legend Penelope Chilvers. In this issue she introduces us to her favourite local characters, all of them of course wearing her shoes. There's lots of colour this month from Henry Holland, whose long-awaited collection for Habitat has just been revealed (it's as bright and brazen as you'd expect) – we chatted to him about fashion, interiors and his own home. In this issue we also meet Thomasina Miers to discuss fuss-free cooking at home, about which she's just written a new book, one which she sees as the modern Mrs Beeton. All this and the usual mix of local events, shopping advice and property news. Enjoy the magazine. ◆
pendle harte Editor
11 NH_APR16_Eds_Letter.indd 11
absolutely.london
23/03/2017 11:33
10
VINTAGE VIBES
Neil Barrett’s SS17 collection marries retro vintage with modernist cuts and is based on the free spirit of Americana. His lightly tailored pieces make great spring staples heading into the warmer weather. neilbarrett.com
Things We
ABSOLUTELY
WILD BY NATURE
Upholding ancient traditions from the far north of the world, this spirit is distilled from the sap of the birch, harvested just once a year in early spring. It’s full of flavour with the wild, natural character of the birch. £34; masterofmalt.com
Compiled By
H E L E N B R OW N
SOUND LISTENING
Monster has become synonymous with the highest quality audio technology. Theses headphones are designed for comfort and have three listening modes. £279.99; selfridges.com
ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES
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BRONZE AND GLOW
Slim, sculpt and enhance your features with this contouring duo compact; the bronzer mimics a sun-kissed complexion while the peach powder adds luminosity. £49; charlottetilbury.com
12 23/03/2017 11:35
ABSOLUTELY / LOVES
BACK TO NATURE
SUSTAINABLE SCENTS
Sweet and fruity with a hint of spice, this luxury candle is sourced from Australia and is completely natural and sustainable. £36; selfridges.com
Delam London is a modern, knitwear brand which celebrates the art of ancient Persian dye techniques. These enchanting shades of pink and purple are created using rhubarb flowers and madder root water. delamlondon.com
VINTAGE VIEWS
Inspired by styles from the Linda Farrow archives, the retro round-frame silhouette of these sunnies will add a touch of vintage glamour when the sun shines. £720; net-a-porter.com
SPRING STEPS
Brit-girl cool meets Parisian glamour in these pink tea and tan leather Mia sandals from Chloé.They are elegant enough for evening but will add a touch of bohemia to day-time looks. £395; farfetch.com
ICONIC EDGE
This glossy design is trimmed with Valentino’s iconic 'Rockstuds' and is perfect for adding an edge to spring wardrobes. £1,755; net-a-porter.com
LA BOHÈME
Simple is not about being plain. This minimal design from Cluse adds elegance while the colour will give outfits a quirky finish. £79; clusewatches.com
13 Chis_April17_AbsLoves_v2.indd 13
absolutely.london
23/03/2017 11:35
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18/01/2017 17:15
•
> WHAT'S ON
p. 16
25 YEARS OF STOMP
p. 19
ROBOT WARS Currently on display at the Science Museum is the world's most significant collection of humanoid robots, tracing the 500-year history of the quest to recreate the human form. South Ken is intrigued. Rise of the Robots continues until 3 September; sciencemuseum.org.uk
15 CHIS_April17_Culture_Opener.indd 15
absolutely.london
23/03/2017 11:37
XXXXXXXX / XXXXXXXXX
NO GUTS NO GLORY Fro m 1 1 Ap r i l S a a tc hi G a ll e r y ropaganda meets patriotism in this P original series of montage works by Ben Turnbull. Crafted and cut from vintage U.S. materials, the work reminds us of the reasons why we fight and the beliefs that influence us to do so. u Duke of York’s HQ, King’s Road, SW3; saatchigallery.com
CHELSEA ART FAIR
DIANA: Her Fashion Story On goin g Ken sin gton Palac e
From the demure, romantic outfits of her first public appearances to the glamour of her later life, Diana captivated as a trendsetter. Now, 20 years on from her death, see her extraordinary collection of garments – from the glittering ball gowns of the 80s to the chic tailored suits of her 90’s ‘working wardrobe.’ Kensington Gardens, W8; hrp.org.uk
ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES
NH_April17_Whats_On.indd 16
2 7- 3 0 Ap r i l C hel s e a O l d To wn Ha ll rt meets music at the Chelsea Art A Fair this year. A space will be dedicated to those legendary musicians who were inspired by the King’s Road - synonymous with 60s and 70s fashion, music and arts. See sculptures, paintings and photography of those who were part of the King's Road's hey day. u King’s Road, SW3; chelseaartfair.org
SYMFUNNY NO. 2 1 9 Ap r i l Ro y a l Al b e r t Ha ll his spectacular evening of T live music and comedy welcomes a stella lineup of musicians and comedians to London’s iconic Royal Albert Hall. Highlights include performances from award-winning recording artist, Katie Melua and show-stopping comedians Josh Widdicombe and Jack Dee, with all proceeds going to Parkinson’s research. u Kensington Gore, SW7; royalalberthall.com
16 23/03/2017 11:41
ARTS & CULTURE / TALKING TOPICS COPYRIGHT JOHAN PERSSON
POTTER’S LONDON
Un ti l 2 8 Ap r i l V&A elebrate the 150th C anniversary of celebrated children's author and illustrator Beatrix Potter at the V&A. She would often frequent the museum, to sit and sketch. This display of artworks, originals and her earliest published works explores the role of London in Potter’s life and work, including her most famous book, The Tale of Peter Rabbit. u Cromwell Road, SW7; vam.ac.uk
WHO’S AFRAID OF VIRGINIA WOOLF
must see
BFI RADIO TIMES TELEVISION FESTIVAL
O n go in g Ha ro l d P i nter Th eatre
Over half a century has passed since Edward Albee’s classic play was first performed to Broadway audiences and now his iconic story returns. The play examines the breakdown of the marriage of a middle-aged couple living in American academia. Imelda Staunton is at her best in the role of Martha, alongside Conleth Hill’s George.
7 - 9 Apri l BFI S o uthb an k e are living in a new golden age W of television drama. Acclaimed shows such as The Crown and Sherlock are transfixing viewers across the globe. This glittering new festival will bring you the inside story on all your favourite programmes. Expect exclusive premieres, hidden gems from the BFI archive and a host of talent, including Dame Maggie Smith, Mark Gatiss, Sir Ridley Scott and Rowan Atkinson. u Belvedere Road, South Bank, SE1; bfi.org.uk
Payton Street, SW1Y; whosafraidofvirginiawoolf.co.uk
EVENT OF THE MONTH
ALICE’S ADVENTURES UNDERGROUND Fro m 1 5 Apr i l T h e Vau l ts umble down the rabbit hole and make a series of choices in a theatrical adventure like no other. Interact with the magical and bizarre inhabitants of Wonderland as you hunt for the missing Alice. Take tea at the biggest un-birthday party with the
T
17 NH_April17_Whats_On.indd 17
maddest of Hatters; let the Cheshire Cat take you hither or thither and finish the evening with a cocktail in the Wonderland Bar. Logic will fail you and nonsense will overwhelm. u Launcelot Street, SE1; alice-underground.com
absolutely.london
23/03/2017 11:42
Princess 810mm Ox blood, Windsor Black Nickel TRV Wallpaper panels - Timorous Beasties
Bespoke cast iron radiators | Made in England | UK stores in Manchester +44 (0) 161 439 9350 London - Wimbledon Village, Chelsea +44 (0) 20 3397 7295 www.castrads.com
CASTRADS.indd 1
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ARTS & CULTURE / THEATRE
SOON IT'S AN ORCHESTRA
of brooms, all
SWEEPING IN TIME
BANG ON As it celebrates its 25th anniversary, Absolutely takes a seat for Stomp Wo r d s P e n d l e H a r t e
I
hadn’t seen Stomp before, though admittedly it's been around for so long that I felt like I had. The Ambassadors Theatre is very scruffy, a throwback to when London wasn’t shiny and monied, with its dusty, cramped interior, and seats are small (a throwback to before everyone was overweight), but the auditorium is full and as soon as the show starts, everyone is transfixed. Stomp is one of the West End’s longestrunning shows, having recently celebrated its 25th anniversary and 15 years in London. Over the past quarter decade it has played to more than 12 million people in 53 countries across six continents; it recently played in Beijing
and opened in Mumbai; it has amassed 22 years and counting in New York. What makes it such a winning show? In fact, 100 minutes of pure percussion performance is more profound than I would have expected and laced with moments of real comedy, all of this conjured out of nothing. Well, nothing special anyway. In the tradition of art made from found objects, Stomp makes music out of street furniture, rubbish and kitchen sinks. First it’s a person with a broom, sweeping, joined in turn by other people with brooms, and soon it’s an orchestra of brooms, all sweeping in rhythm and banging in time, and then it’s a dance. The energy is incredible, with a real sense of
19 NH_April17_Stomp.indd 19
unity within the cast as they collectively create something so big and so loud that relies on great precision while seeming casual and organic. It’s anarchic but controlled, entirely non-gendered and despite its slightly 90s grungy aesthetic, it feels timeless and visceral, even full of wordless wisdom. We learn, for instance, that the sound of a supermarket trolley clattering can be beautiful. It’s an exercise in solidarity when a trolley clattering alone is at worst nothing, at best an annoyance – but a gaggle of them is music. A person shaking a packet of Swan Vestas alone is just a person with a matchbox, but get a team shaking together and it’s a symphony. Banging an old rubber tube on the floor is a pointless pursuit unless it’s part of an army of tube bangers, all in tune with each other and banging for joy. These are whole lessons in life right here. Stomp is a joyous mix of pantomime (there’s a great unspoken ‘he’s behind you’ moment) and comedy, where the laughs come from brilliantly timed slight inconsistencies in rhythm and facets of personality expressed through slight movement. There’s even some audience participation. This is 100 minutes well spent. ◆
AMBASSADORS THEATRE
West Street, WC2H 9ND Box Office: 020 7395 5405 Tickets from £26 + £2.50 transaction fee stomplondon.com
absolutely.london
23/03/2017 11:47
#TaylorMorrisExplorer
www.taylormorriseyewear.com
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> FASHION CONFIDENTIAL
p. 22
PENELOPE CHILVERS TAKES PORTOBELLO
p. 24
TREND: CHECK MATE p. 29
PRINTS PLEASE Dividing time between Fendi and his own eponymous label, Marco de Vincenzo is part of a new wave of designers leading the way in Italian design. His latest collection offers an eclectic spectrum of colour and texture, mixing photographic prints with Prince of Wales check and rainbow faux fur. marcodevincenzo.com
21 CHIS_April17_Fashion_Opener.indd 21
absolutely.london
23/03/2017 11:49
st y l e C e n t r a l
Parisian apparel, urban florals and quirky zebra print reign this April Wo r d s j oy m o n t g o m e r y
BRAND PROFILE:
ATTICO The brand bringing boudoirinspired styles to the street WHO
You may recognise them from the street style stage: a dynamic duo whose effortless fashion sense and raven-haired beauty can’t help but draw the camera’s lens. Attico (which translates to “penthouse” in English) is the hot new fashion brand created by young, stylesavvy women for young, style-savvy women. Conceived in the back of a cab at New York Fashion Week in 2015, Ambrosio and Tordini have risen to fame with their cohort of ‘it’ girls, many of whom appear on Attico's Instagram feed draped in the brand's signature looks. With a dedicated following and burgeoning reputation as taste makers, Attico has gone from strength-to-strength, most recently releasing an exclusive line with Net-a-Porter. u
WHAT
Inspired by the classic peignoir (a woman’s light dressing gown), Attico’s signature robes look to the opulence of traditional smoking jackets. Rendered in rich fabrics, these statement pieces reject the low-key nonchalance of athelsiure trends. Instead, they usher in a new love for decadence, drawing on the sumptuous hues, fabrics and embroidery of vintage interiors and furniture. Ambrosio and Tordini do, however, keep their designs from becoming nostalgic by styling their floorgrazing robes with cropped flares, silk camis and loose-fitting shirts. For SS17 Attico has composed a collection of wearable yet design-led looks. Interchangeable separates, including ruffled blouses and embroidered cardigans, are worn alongside the brand's iconic gowns, which are rendered in luxe silks and embellished with Schiaparelliinspired animal motifs. Lobsters included. theattico.com
ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES
Chis_April17_Fashion_Confidential_02.indd 22
Say It In Silk Ellie Lines
Launched in 2014, Ellie Lines is the British label that creates statement dresses in 100% silk. Inspired by the jet-set era of the ‘60s and ‘70s, Ellie’s collections embody this season's maximalist mood, with everything from tea dresses and pussy bow blouses to floor-skimming maxis created in colourful abstract florals. Summer here we come. ellielines.co.uk
22 23/03/2017 11:50
FASHION / NOTES
VALENTINO
Paneled appliquéd midi dress, £6,640; net-a-porter.com
editor’s
PICK
6
DRESSING UP Va l e n t i n o
The fashion crowd are going wild for the romantic appeal of the midi dress: high neck, long-sleeves, floral prints and all. Forget country weddings - these floral frocks were born to live in the urban jungle. Pair yours with biker boots and a leather jacket for Laura Ashley meets Agyness Deyn swagger. net-a-porter.com
of the best
ZEBRA PRINT PRINTBUYS BUYS JUNYA WATANABE
ERDEM
Zebra print cotton-jersey t-shirt, £225; net-a-porter.com
Georgie lace-trimmed crepe de chine dress, £1,230; net-a-porter.com
HERE COMES THE BRIDE Topshop bridal
It’s the news frugal, fashion-conscious brides have been waiting for: Topshop has announced the launch of a new bridal fashion line. Arriving in stores this month, the capsule collection will include bridal and bridesmaid dresses, lingerie and accessories, ensuring all your sartorial wedding needs are met. topshop.com
STELLA MCCARTNEY
Zebra jacquard jumper, £670; stellamccartney.com
PARISIAN PRINTS Être Cécile
Co-founded by the ever-stylish Yasmin Sewell, Être Cécile is the ultimate wardrobe staple for the fashion-conscious girl. Born from the timelessness of French style, the brand fuses casual wearability with quirky-cool designs emblazoned with whimsical slogans. Wear yours over a slim polo for spring and tucked into boyfriend jeans come summer; £80. etrececile.com
ELENA GHISELLINI
Zebra print shoulder bag, £766; farfetch.com
MARC JACOBS
TASTE-MAKER Sophie Bille Brahe
Royal College of Art graduate Sophie Bille Brahe is the queen of understated luxury jewellery. Her single earrings have garnered a cult following, offering a fresh and contemporary spin on traditional motifs. We love this single drop pearl earring which will add sculptural elegance to any outfit. sophiebillebrahe.com
23 Chis_April17_Fashion_Confidential_02.indd 23
ISABEL MARANT
Zebra print stretchjersey dress, £1,245; marcjacobs.com
Zebra print jacket, £1,646; farfetch.com
GUCCI
Two-tone fringed leather pumps, £610; net-a-porter.com
absolutely.london
23/03/2017 11:52
FASHION / STYLE
Por tobello
PE OPL E Shoe designer Penelope Chilvers celebrates her love for Portobello by shooting some of her favourite locals wearing her shoes P h o t o g r a p h y L i ly B e r t r a n d W e b b
P E N E L O P E C H I LV E R S ‘I’ve lived just off the market most of my life and I’ve been a trader there too. Many of the traders wear my boots through the winter to keep their feet warm outside. Rubber soles and shearling linings do the job. The people in the market have an eye. Many have a past in fashion and have seen it all before. I always find something inspiring, be it an old pair of shoes or a blanket for the next moodboard. We have had some memorable parties outside our shop in Ledbury Road, with huge paellas bubbling on the pavement. Neighbours are still very cool about noise on balmy summer nights. I like to mix vintage with new. I cannot resist a polkadot silk scarf. I once bought a nubuck 70s jacket with amazing pleated cuffs and rounded collar, in an amazing tan, that Gemma used to complete one of the looks in our preshoot. I will sell it off the page or in the shop afterwards when the collection is out. NICK & EDIE ASHLEY Nick Ashley: I have been going to Portobello market since the 60s, I often take a stall there, it is one of the most
ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES
NH_April17_PENELOPE PORTOBELLO.indd 24
FANCY WALKING
down the street with A FLOWERPOT ON YOUR HEAD?
Just another day on Portobello
special places on this earth. Portobello is a community, the whole of humanity is there, the very wealthiest, and the poorest, all ethnic groups – we fight, we laugh, it’s like a family. On my 57th birthday my wife bought some horses to town and we went on a pub crawl down Portobello. I am still laughing. I once bought an old jacket in the market and when I got home I discovered a tennis ball sized Thai ball in the pocket.
That was a hell of a party, it must have been someone’s stash. Edie Ashley: Have gone to Portobello ever since I’ve been kicking about in London and recently did a stand with my dad which was real fun: I like that everything is second hand, which means it tells a story. All the legends selling the stuff are so friendly, you have a relationship with the person you are buying from and they can tell you things about the product. I remember riding around Notting Hill Gate and Portobello on horseback for dad’s birthday a few years ago, mum got the horses and got them out the trailer on Ledbury Road and rode them round to dad’s best friend’s house for breakfast champagne, it was super grand but also really rougue, felt quite gypsy. N ATA L I E M AY I have my own stall on Portobello Market. I’m known as 'The Queen of Tweed' – I sell a lot of Harris tweed blazers, silk scarves, pocket squares and gentleman’s shoes. My friends live around the area and you can be sure to find me at the
24 23/03/2017 11:53
Above: BAMBI, HERBIE MENSAH Below: PENELOPE CHILVERS, NATALIE MAY
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23/03/2017 11:53
281 Portobello Road is the home to independent boutiques featuring an exciting mix of street wear and high end fashion labels, tailored suits, bespoke jewellery, kid’s fashion/gifts, Interior accessories, designer glasses, skincare products, an amazing tea range, a children’s hair salon and an Art Gallery all under one roof. Petit Café • Just A Minute • Isis • Zarvis London • Rosie Life • Sapelle • Unora • Angel in the Attic Studio • Adam • Wildash Limited • The Chinese Tea Company Oliver Vintage • VR • Steve Bell • Nottii Hill Salon • Menagerie • Trapstar • Sarah Bunting London • Danaqa World Chic • Nushka • Philmore Clague • What Katie Did
281portobelloroad.com 281PORTOBELLORD V3.indd 1
21/03/2017 11:19
FASHION / STYLE
Above KAY MONTANO Below NICK AND EDIE ASHLEY
I LOVE THE LOCAL ECCENTRICS
mixing with immigrant families FROM EVERYWHERE WHO still outnumber THE
hedge funders (just)
Mau Mau bar. Portobello Market is a real melting pot. You get people from all over the world and from different cultural backgrounds all in one market. In one day, I’ve seen Kate Moss strut through in the morning and a homeless magician giving a show to the locals by the afternoon. Anything goes on Portobello. For a long time, I felt like it was the only place I felt fully comfortable to wear whatever I wanted. Fancy walking down the street with a flower pot on your head for a hat? Just another day on Portobello. My style is androgynous. I feel most comfortable and creative wearing men’s suits, preferably tweed suits. I have a 3/4 length Harris tweed small men’s overcoat that I bought on the market. It is glorious. Every time I wear it on my stall, people offer me crazy money to take it off my back. I paid £15 for it.
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K AY M O N TA N O I used to rollerskate around the area when I was in my teens, then when I was 16 I started my relationship with secondhand clothes and caught the bug of finding unique one-offs. Nothing has changed. I love the diverse mix of people, both culturally and every other way. To me I’d go as far as to say it’s the nearest thing to racial and class harmony in the world. I love the local eccentrics mixing with immigrant families from everywhere who are still outnumbering the hedge funders (just). This is where I mis-spent my youth, so it’s still a joy to be in and around the Portobello – it has a gravitational pull and it simply feels like home. My style is vintage, timeless and feminine with a dash of mad aunty. I’ve been buying bargains there for 34 years now, so many. Perhaps the best was a pair of fabulous Gucci shoes for £8 and a matching handbag for £12, both of which I wore to death over my early 20s. But there has been much more. BAMBI I am Banana Split Vintage and we trade at Portobello. I love Carnival's vibrant colours and its ability to bring people together At Banana Split we have a mixture of fantastic bargains including Swedish military jackets and many more exciting colourful pieces; my style is eclectic and unpredictable. HERBIE MENSAH I have been trading in vintage clothes here on and off for a number of years. The market has been a great inspiration to me in the way I dress and ideas for sourcing and collecting clothing and seeing the many different styles of the way people dress from all over the world. Meeting and selling to a few of the world’s top designers has been my most memorable moments from being in the neighbourhood. I would describe my style as 1970s/80s Rude Boy in 2017. My favourite Portobello bargain was an original pair of Vivienne Westwood Seditionaries’ bondage trousers, a steal at £5. ◆ • penelopechilvers.com
absolutely.london
23/03/2017 11:54
Modern classics with a luxury twist...
For bespoke pieces or stockist enquiries please email julie@julietownend.com www.julietownend.com
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FASHION / TREND MSGM Sleeveless ruffle-trimmed cotton-gingham dress, £335; matchesfashion.com
WAREHOUSE Gingham ruched sleeve top, £35; warehouse.com ZAC ZAC POSEN Eartha gingham straw soft top handle bag, £403.52; shopbop.com
SANDY LIANG Accord gingham & lace dress, £625; farfetch.com
PASKAL Red gingham cotton frill dress, £280; avenue32.com
ZARA Embroidered gingham shirt, £29.99; zara.com
H&M Off-the-shoulder dress, £19.99; hm.com
VICTORIA BECKHAM SS17
A.W.A.K.E Jellychess gingham culottes, £416; matchesfashion.com
CHECK MATE SANDY LIANG Checked shirt, £365.88; farfetch.com
Gingham gets the high fashion treatment for SS17 B y J OY M O N T G O M E R Y
MIU MIU Quilted gingham shoulder bag, £870; matchesfashion.com
MARQUES ALMEIDA Gingham mules, £435; farfetch.com
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CAROLINE CONSTAS Gabriella off-the-shoulder gingham top, £364; matchesfashion.com
absolutely.london
23/03/2017 11:55
Ref le ction s Be bold this spring and take inspiration from Uterqüe’s expressive detailing and striking silhouettes Uterque’s SS17 collection is available at uterque.com
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23/03/2017 12:00
ABSOLUTELY london
www.absolutely.london is now live
Your guide to inspirational London living From the team behind Absolutely Magazines
FOLLOW US AT @AbsolutelyMagazines @absolutely_mags
ABSOLUTELY.LONDON.indd 1
09/11/2016 15:31
FASHION / MOODBOARD
MY INSPIRATIONS Julie Townend, fashion designer, shares her moodboard
JULIE TOWNEND
j u l i e t o w n e n d .c o m MARK ROTHKO (1903-1970)
YOUR FAVOURITE PIECE FROM YOUR CURRENT COLLECTION?
My favourite piece is the Charliz satin shirt in daffodil with poet sleeves. The shirt has a glamorous uplifting look and feel and great for the spring season.
DIANE VON FURSTENBERG
ST PAUL'S CATHEDRAL
YOUR FAVOURITE DESIGNER?
Diane von Furstenberg is an extraordinary woman who built a fashion empire while raising two children, she designed the iconic wrap dress and she is my inspiration.
FORMENTERA
DVF SS17
YOUR FAVOURITE HOLIDAY DESTINATION?
I love Ibiza and Formentera because it’s full of energy and life. CHARLIZ SATIN SHIRT IN DAFFODIL
YOUR SIGNATURE SCENT?
Channel no 5, a classic perfume which I have worn since my 20s.
YOUR FAVOURITE PIECE OF ART? Rothko's Purple and Red. It's so stunning.
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YOUR FAVOURITE BUILDING?
St Paul’s Cathedral one of the most iconic buildings in London and a famous image around the world. It survived the Blitz and makes me proud to be British.
julietownend.com Stockists include Baar & Bass, 336 Kings Road, Chelsea and The Place, 27 Connaught Street, W2
absolutely.london
23/03/2017 12:01
Michael Michaud Jewellery captures the beauty and exquisite detail of nature using soft patinas on bronze cast from plants, leaves and flowers. Michael Michaud Jewellery is renowned for its beauty and workmanship and is featured in the finest museums, galleries and speciality retailers internationally. Many collections are commissioned by leading museums such as The Victoria & Albert Museum, The Art Institute of Chicago, The National Gallery of Art and the Château de Versailles.
www.michael-michaud.com MICHEAL MICHAUD.indd 1
22/02/2017 09:52
FASHION / JEWELLERY
STAR SIGN STYLE 1
2
3
8
6
4
7
5
1 NO 13, ZODIAC OXYDISED SILVER CONSTELLATION DIAMOND SIGNET RING, £159; no13.london • 2 KATE SPADE NEW YORK, IN THE STARS LEO BANGLE, £50; katespade.co.uk 3 ANNOUSHKA, MYTHOLOGY SAGITTARIUS PENDANT, £550; annoushka.com • 4 LYDIA COURTEILLE, ONE-OF-A-KIND ZODIAC EARRINGS, £14,550; modaoperandi.com • 5 THOMAS SABO, CHARM CLUB NECKLACE, £137.90; thomassabo.com • 6 CAROLINA BUCCI, ARIES LUCKY ZODIAC BRACELET, £2,260; carolinabucci.com • 7 VENYX, BESPOKE VIRGO COIN PENDANT & CHAIN, £5,184; modaoperandi.com 8 JESSICA DE LOTZ JEWELLERY, ZODIAC EARRINGS WITH SINGLE ARROW STUD, £195; jdljewellery.co.uk
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absolutely.london
23/03/2017 12:02
With over 80 award nominations and 45 wins, Jamie and his team pride themselves on delivering excellence in cutting, colouring, extensions, afro and styling for men and women, coupled with a personalised service to make you feel welcomed and at ease at their boutique style Kensington salon. The Jamie Stevens team are delighted to offer new clients 25% off their first visit. For more information please contact the salon 020 7371 1944 │9 Russell Gardens, Kensington, W14 8EZ │www.jamiestevenshair.com
JAMIESTEVENSHAIR
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22/03/2017 14:47
> BEAUTY CONFIDENTIAL
p. 42
TREND: VEGAN BEAUTY
p. 45
IT'S A WRAP Wrap your hair in silk before you go to bed and you'll eliminate frizz, redistribute oils and leave your hair looking refreshed. And the Silke hair wrap is stylish too. £45, silkelondon.com
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absolutely.london
23/03/2017 12:05
b e au t y R e v i e w
New guard fragrances, facial fitness and a whole new hairstyle for April W o r d s J OY M O N T G O M E R Y
HARE & BONE Great Titchfield Street, W1 W o r d s J OY M O N T G O M E R Y
T
here’s nothing more liberating that going for a dramatic chop. Whether it’s shaking up your wardrobe, giving your beauty routine a new lease of life or just celebrating a fresh start, changing up your haircut can be both an exciting and a daunting process. It’s with this in mind that I venture into Hare & Bone’s edgier-than-thou salon on Great Titchfield Street, ready to go from below shoulder-length hair to a daring jawgrazing bob. The appointment begins with forensic-level hair analysis with lovely stylist Nathan, examining inspiration images, discussing natural texture and thickness and identifying the fine line between modern bob and the dreaded ‘mom’ ‘do (apparently the key is avoiding layers and keeping texture shaggy). After offering just the right amount of guidance, Nathan starts snipping while I drink coffee and watch long tendrils of hair falling to the floor. Then Nathan talks me through the technique of creating that elusive undone look. Using Kerastase’s Mousse Bouffante line to create texture and hold, my now short hair is blow-dried straight before straighteners are used to gently wave and kink it, another key component of keeping the texture modern. As a final flourish, he uses KMS’ Hair Play spray while running his hands through the waves, roughing them up and separating them out. The final result is more than I had hoped for: a modern bob so chic and stylish that I haven’t yearned for my long locks since. Nathan recommends a trim every six to eight weeks to keep the look fresh - try and keep us away. ◆ HARE AND BONE 69 Great Titchfield Street, W1 hareandbone.co.uk
ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES
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Law Of Attraction Iris Law for Burberr y
When you’re blessed with the combined genetics of Jude Law and Sadie Frost it seems inevitable that you should be offered the prestigious role of Burberry beauty ambassador at the tender age of 16. Iris Law’s first campaign is shot by Angelo Pennetta and reveals the brand’s new Liquid Lip Velvet range: a new statement-making matte cream colour with a non-drying, whipped texture. uk.burberry.com
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HEALTH & BEAUTY / NOTES
5
FACIAL FITNESS D e c l é o r Fa c i a l P i l a t e s
Facial massage is an age-old technique that has recently gained popularity in the mainstream market with its sculpting and recushioning effects. Decléor have developed their own Facial Pilates treatment, which includes deep cleansing and three facial massages to leave skin glowing. Available at participating stores. decleor.co.uk
FACE CLEANSERS
GOLDEN EYE Louboutin Beauty
In 2014 Christian Louboutin ventured into the world of luxury beauty, offering a line of lust-worthy nail polishes. For 2017 the brand are expanding their oeuvre to eye make-up. Inspired by Kathakali, a form of classical Indian dance, the edit features an amplifying mascara, luminous ink liner, velvet eye definer and brow pencil, all encased in the brand’s signature opulent packaging. eu.christianlouboutin.com
editor's
PICK
Le Labo fragrances
Part of a new cohort of niche fragrance brands taking the lead from celebrity scents, Le Labo is the fine perfumer offering beautiful blends in chic, minimalist packaging. Launched in New York in 2006, their small edit of vegan scents can be bought online and, if you visit one of their boutiques, freshly blended in front of you. lelabofragrances.com
SAVING FACE D r L e v y fa c i a l a t O M N I YA
Health and beauty mediclinic OMNIYA London have joined forces with Dr Levy Switzerland, to offer an exclusive bespoke stem cell facial. This tailored treatment offers a combination of cleansing, light facial peel, LED therapy, massage and mask. A brightening wakeup call for your skin. £250 for 90 minutes omniya.co.uk
43
2
LIZ EARLE Cleanse & Polish™ Hot Cloth Cleanser, £15.50; johnlewis.com
3
DR LEVY DEEP Cell Renewal Micro-Resurfacing Cleanser, £39; cultbeauty.com
SCENTS & SENSIBILITY
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1
of the best
5
ZELENS Z Pure Cleansing Liquid Balm, £50; net-a-porter.com
4 CLINIQUE Pep-Start 2-in-1 Exfoliating Cleanser, £16.50; clinique.com
CLARINS Water Comfort One-Step Cleanser, £21; clarins.com
absolutely.london
23/03/2017 12:06
Swiss-made limited editions
Daphne Signature Gold
View the full collection at www.dumaurierwatches.com from ÂŁ440 Tel: 01460 220720
Classic time for creative minds du Maurier & the du Maurier logo are registered trademarks of du Maurier Watches Ltd. Š 2016 du Maurier Watches. All rights reserved.
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HEALTH & BEAUTY / PRODUCTS NUXE
STILA
Shimmering Dry Oil Huile Prodigieuse® Or, £20; uk.nuxe.com
Magnificent Metals Glitter & Glow Liquid Eye Shadow, £23; stila.co.uk
BURBERRY
BECCA
Nail Polish - Ruby Glitter No.306; net-a-porter.com
Shimmering Skin Perfector Poured, £30; spacenk.com
MICHAEL KORS Liquid Shimmer Dry Oil Spray, £41; lookfantastic.com
JOUER COSMETICS
Long-Wear Lip Topper, £13.50; cultbeauty.com
SMITH & CULT
Teen Cage Riot, £19; selfridges.com
ILIA
Lip Gloss - White Rabbit, £19.26; beautylish.com
JINSOON
Nail Polish Verismo, £15; net-a-porter.com
BEAUTY BAKERIE
VERSACE SS17
Sprinkles, £9.50; cultbeauty.com
URBAN DECAY
Heavy Metal Glitter Eyeliner - Spandex, £15; debenhams.com
NYX COSMETICS Face & body Glitter Brilliants, £5.50; selfridges.com
GLITTER BALL
High-octane shimmer is the look to love this April
CHARLOTTE TILBURY
Eyes To Mesmerise - Jean, £22; charlottetilbury.com
B y J OY M O N T G O M E R Y
TOPSHOP BEAUTY
NARS COSMETICS
The Lip Kit, £18; topshop.com
Eye Paint - Baalbek, £19; narscosmetics.com
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MAC COSMETICS
Glitter - Red, £16; maccosmetics.com
absolutely.london
23/03/2017 12:08
THE APP FOR MODERN BRIDES Download the Absolutely Weddings App to receive every issue before it hits stores
The Absolutely Weddings app is the ultimate guide to creating the most luxurious and stylish wedding. Download now to discover the latest in designer fashion and beauty, as well as lifestyle tips for brides, grooms, mother-of-the-bride and bridesmaids. Download the app to discover, learn and share the latest WEDDINGS trends and news
OR Through our preferred partner Follow Us On
T wit t er @A B S O L U T E LY W E D Fa c e b o ok @A B S O L U T E LY W E D D I N G S In sta g ram @A B S O L U T E LY W E D D I N G S P int ere st @A B S O L U T E LY W E D
ABSOLUTELY WEDDINGS.indd 1
03/03/2017 15:01
HEALTH & BEAUTY / HAIR
Forget fashion, because WEDDING HAIR is ABOUT YOU
ASK HARI
Hair advice from Ledbury Road's resident expert Wo r d s h a r i
W H AT A R E H A I R B R U S H E S W I T H B R A I N S? The revolutionary bristles are turning, in the fight for healthy hair – the only trend that matters right now. Say hello to the smart brush, designed to smooth, boost and care for our locks. This new generation of brush goes way beyond the realm of the tangle. The smartest of thinking brushes is possibly the Kérastase Hair Coach Powered by Withings. Launching later this year, what looks like a brush is actually bristle and brain with microphone, 3-axis load cells and a gyroscope. The three technologies listen to breakage, measure pressure and count strokes so that it can prescribe
the products and patterns needed to improve the health of hair. Then there are the brushes designed to wean you off straighteners. H E L P M E C H O O S E MY WEDDING HAIR! Forget fashion, because wedding hair, just like the big day, is about you. You see, where seasonal hair trends come and go, big day ‘dos should last a lifetime of photos on the mantelpiece. Put simply, bridal tresses should flatter the bride above all, setting off her eyes, face, neck, frame, and personality. ‘And the idea is to feel relaxed too. You don’t want stiff, fixed hair, but instead something effortless and real. Take
47 NH_April17_HARI'S.indd 47
tonged styles – you want to avoid rigid ringlets and opt for brushed-through, wavy mermaid hair. If you’re using straighteners say always give lengths body: you want hair to beam with lustre, healthy and vitality. However, it’s not just about finding a finish that suits you, a soon-to-be-wed should also go for a hair style that matches her matrimonial dress. And this is where the fun comes in, because as any stylist will tell you, a marriage between a bride, her dress and her hair starts with making a moodboard. By pinning photos of your dress, its shape and detail, as well as accessories, veils and flowers that you like to a board, you’ll hone in on a style pretty quickly. Add your make-up ideas, even the venue and wedding theme colours, to the mix and watch how the vision comes together. A great place to start your research is on the red carpet. Celebrity hair creations that you see in magazines are always carefully considered by a crack team of stylists – outfit, venue, make-up, and persona all taken into account. Go timeless, go tasteful, and most of go planned. The better you time your hair trials and tests, the more comfortable and confident you will feel on the big day.’ harissalon.com
THE COMPETITION:
Win a bridal booking at Hari’s, worth over £250, by entering our competition at absolutely.london
absolutely.london
23/03/2017 12:15
Knightsbridge’s Best Kept Secret
Join us at The Capital Bar for a unique whisky and cheese pairing, learn the art of mixology with a cocktail masterclass or relax with pre-dinner drinks mixed by our expert team led by Cesar Da Silva. Afternoon Tea is served each day in the intimate sitting room or can be booked in one of our private rooms.
BOUTIQUE HOTEL KNIGHTSBRIDGE
22-24 Basil Street, Knightsbridge SW3 1AT CAPITAL HOTEL.indd 1
020 7589 5171
www.capitalhotel.co.uk 17/03/2017 15:19
> KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL: VENUES TO DINE, DRINK & DANCE IN
p. 50
ALL FIRED UP The heat is on with the release of Chiltern Firehouse: The Cookbook. Founder André Balazs and chef Nuno Mendes have condensed their vision into a title brimming with recipes and inhouse secrets. £30, Penguin Books; penguin.co.uk
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absolutely.london
23/03/2017 12:17
What to drink
GRAPE NEWS
Wine recommendations for the month
kitchen
CONFIDENTIAL London’s food news and delicious things to see you through April Wo r d s H A N N A H H O P K I N S
By B E R RY B R OS . & R U D D
2016 BERRY BROS. & RUDD AUSTRALIAN CHARDONNAY BY FRANKLAND ESTATE £12.50 Aromas of white peach with a fresh sea-salt hint. Ripe pears and yellow apples flavours follow with a lemon citrus note which gives the wine a refreshing zip. A delicious accompaniment to seafood linguine and creamy chicken dishes alike. ◆
2012 BERRY BROS. & RUDD RIOJA BY BODEGAS AMÉZOLA DE LA MORA £11.95 Rich and rewarding and full of blackberry fruit flavours, this is not a shy wine but one that boldly states its origins: coconut and vanilla spice come to the fore and a broad base of warm, dark fruit coats the palate. Perfect with spring lamb. ◆
2015 CHURTON SAUVIGNON BLANC, MARLBOROUGH, NEW ZEALAND £16.95 A vivacious Sauvignon Blanc with fragrances of fresh gooseberry. Its fresh flavours with grassy, lemon and tropical fruit notes make it a perfect match for grilled seafood. ◆
Aussie Takeover
B E R RY B R OS . & R U D D
Granger & Co
Berry Bros. & Rudd is Britain's oldest wine and spirit merchant, having traded from the same shop since 1698. Today the company also has offices in Japan, Singapore and Hong Kong, a Wine School and an exclusive fine wine and dining venue in St James's. bbr.com
Bill Granger has opened his fourth London outpost on Pavilion Road in Chelsea. Perfect for a girl’s lunch expect light, tasty dishes and moreish cocktails. 237 Pavilion Road, SW1 grangerandco.com
ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES
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50 23/03/2017 12:27
FOOD & DRINK / NOTES editor’s
PICK
3 P L AC E S T O
SCHOOL’S OUT
DRINK, DINE & DANCE
Mr Black Liquor
Ever had to pass a test before your morning caffeine fix? Mr Black becomes the first drink to make prospective buyers sit a written exam before purchasing its liqueur. Priced at £115 and made of the world’s most expensively-rare Panama Geisha coffee, you can see why. mrblack.co
UNDER ONE ROOF
Here are three swanky under one roof venues to see and be seen Wo r d s H A N N A H H O P K I N S
BIRD’S EYE VIEW London In The Sky
Tickets are now on sale for London’s third open-air dining experience. This July, Chelsea Embankment will host the 100-foot suspended sky table for breakfast, lunch, dinner and drinks. With an all-star chef line-up and sensational views of the capital, it’s one event to tick off the bucket list. eventsinthesky.co.uk
01 MNKY HSE
This one-stop party palace oozes cool, with all the elements of a good night out — bar, restaurant, nightclub — under a single roof. Expect upscale South American fusion cuisine, DJs and live music. 10 Dover Street, W1; mnky-hse.com
CLEAN EATING B o y s' n' B e r r y
Fast becoming a local hot spot for healthy eaters, Boys’N'Berry is an all-day eatery and cocktail bar serving delicious, wholesome food, artisanal coffee and cold-pressed cocktails. 839 Fulham Road, SW6 boysnberry.co.uk
02 MONDRIAN LONDON
Inspired by the glamour of 1920s cruise ships, this ultra-contemporary hotel near Waterloo packs in a luxe rooftop bar, a seafood-centric restaurant, an award-winning drinking den and a chic cinema. 20 Upper Ground, SE1; morganshotelgroup.com
URBAN FUSION 108 Garage
Luca Longobardi and Chris Denney have joined forces to open a new restaurant in Notting Hill. The former garage has been given a bohemian backdrop for inventive, fusion-style BritishAsian cuisine. 108 Golborne Road, W10 108garage.com
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03 PARK CHINOIS
A Chinese banquet can melt into cabaret and clubbing until dawn at Park Chinois in Mayfair. Worth a visit for the opulent decor alone, this is one night out you won’t forget. 17 Berkeley Street, W1; parkchinois.com
absolutely.london
23/03/2017 12:28
Treat the whole family this Easter
www.leonidas.com
LEONIDAS.indd 1
07/03/2017 16:36
FOOD & DRINK / EASTER
BOOJA BOOJA
Hazelnut Crunch Small Easter Egg £9.99; boojabooja.com
CHOCOCO
HARRODS
Dorset Dinosaur Studded Egg £10.95; chococo.co.uk
Camille Walala Limited Edition Easter Eggs £350 each; harrods.com
PIERRE MARCOLINI
Milk or Dark Chocolate Egg £50; uk.marcolini.com
PAUL
Chocolate Hen £3.95; paul-uk.com
WILLIAM CURLEY
PIERRE MARCOLINI
Milk and dark eggs filled with a selection of couture truffles from £25; williamcurley.com
Animal Box of Chocolates £29; uk.marcolini.com
PIERRE HERME
La Poule D’Apres François Pompon £36 each; pierreherme.com
HENRI LE ROUX
Infinite Waves Easter Eggs £40; harrods.com
OPULENT EGGS Gourmet chocolate Easter treats for all ages
PIERRE HERMÉ
Ouef Dentelle Dark Chocolate from £46; pierreherme.com
By Pendle Harte
PRESTAT
PIERRE MARCOLINI
Hazelnut Chocolate Truffle in a Real Eggshell £4.95 each; prestat.co.uk
The Kimono Doll £125; uk.marcolini.com
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absolutely.london
23/03/2017 12:29
ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES
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54 23/03/2017 12:37
FOOD & DRINK / INTERVIEW
Home
COOK Absolutely meets Thomasina Miers to talk about kitchen management, Mrs Beeton and Bake Off words pendle harte
T
homasina Miers – Masterchef winner, founder of Wahaca, food columnist and mother of three – is not too busy to have written a new book. Well, actually she is – in fact she turned the project down four times – but being pregnant with her third and unable to sleep created a new window of nocturnal opportunity, which she saw as a chance to write. The resulting book, Home Cook, is focused on family life and the domestic kitchen, so it’s fitting that I have come to her actual home to discuss it. There’s an appealingly chaotic feel to Tommi Miers’ Kensal Rise house – toys strewn, children chattering, walls crowded with pictures and a lively, busy kitchen. Not for her the ubiquitous minimalist white surfaces; hers is a kitchen where things happen. The new
book is about sharing the wisdom that she’s gathered: how to make a kitchen work even when you’re pressed for time, how to make healthy dishes for whoever’s around without feeling stressed, and how to shop properly to enable all this. ‘It’s old-fashioned really. It definitely goes back to Mrs Beeton but I felt there was a gap in the market for a common sense approach,’ she tells me. ‘I feel that people really get their knickers in a twist about food a lot. I used to too – about eating and what to eat. But all the faddism is crazy; it’s a lot easier to feed people than you’d think. It’s just not that difficult to cook affordable, fun, healthy food, and it doesn’t take forever.’ She doesn’t look quite as relaxed as she says she is, however – and no wonder, because who can run a large business, write a column, cope with three tiny children and publicise a new book, all while being primed to throw dinner on the table
It's just not that difficult TO COOK
FUN, HEALTHY FOOD
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absolutely.london
23/03/2017 12:37
GOODE & WRIGHT BISTRO s e r vi n g c r ea t i v e c a s u a l f oo d Brunch • Lunch • Dinner Bottomless Sunday Roasts 271 Portobello Road | Notting Hill | London | W11 1LR 02077275552
GW.indd 3
hello@goodeandwrightbistro.com www.goodeandwright.co.uk
24/02/2017 12:21
FOOD & DRINK / INTERVIEW
For me FOOD is the GEL that BINDS US ALL TOGETHER , it’s a common LOVE that people bond over for 12 unexpected guests without so much as a tiny trip to Tesco? Not to mention the huge and ongoing project she has launched with her local primary school, devising and fundraising for a vegetable garden and an outdoor classroom. She concedes that her husband thinks she does too much. But she is clearly on a mission, or a variety of missions. ‘We worry about obesity – yet we feed our children chicken nuggets and chips! And just look at the children’s yogurts in the supermarket! We have none of that. But then if we’re baking we do use sugar and butter because
it should be about pleasure. If you’re mainly eating fibre and wholegrains and vegetables, then it’s fine.’ Miers complains that there’s too much neurosis around, and yet she will only buy farmers’ market milk, which she agrees sounds a bit inconsistent. ‘As a mother you do think about nutrition and our soil nutrition has plummeted. But I’m very suspicious of fads.’ As well as representing her cooking present, the book harks back to Miers’ cooking past, which is home-taught and family-oriented. ‘I grew up cooking by my mother’s side and I’ve returned to the kind of cooking we did at home.’ Her mother would buy cheap ingredients – ‘like marrow’ – because money was tight, and Tommi, who wasn’t interested in toys, or in playing with her siblings, would hang around the kitchen, developing an interest in cooking. ‘I started asking, can I
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cook? Because I wanted to do something more interesting with what we had, and I found it so boring eating the same things over and over again.’ At 26 she went to Ballymaloe (the Irish cookery school whose alumni includes Stevie Parle) and at 29 she won Masterchef, and after that she was slightly surprised to find herself actually in a career as a chef. ‘For a few years I felt like I should have spent years in the kitchen as an apprentice, so my food got more cheffy as I tried to prove myself.’ It’s not cheffy now, she insists – it’s simple, practical and healthy. ‘I spend money on ingredients – the kitchen is about management. I’ve always got livers for chicken liver pate and cods roe for taramasalata, and those things are cheap as chips. If I come home shattered there’s always something I can make. I’ve always got the basics.’ What would she suggest for an easy dinner party? ‘Roast chicken definitely,’ she says. 'With lots of tarragon, butter, garlic and lemon. It’s just delicious. With boiled new potatoes – and if you have time, smash them, cover them in thyme, garlic and olive oil and roast them. There’s so much anxiety about whether it’s pretty enough, exotic enough and whether there’s too much fat, but for me food is the gel that binds us all together, it’s a common love that people bond over. The way I see my friends is around this kitchen table. I am very social and I love people.’ Running Wacaha is a three days a week job, something Miers built into her contract from the start to give her space to write. She manages it all with the help of two PAs (one at home, one at work). The day before we meet, the Standard has suggested that she might be the next Bake Off presenter – is it true? I ask? ‘Not true! They came to my book launch and I’d had a few mezcals, so when they asked me about it I said yes, great idea, and of course it all got printed word for word.’ She would, however love to do Strictly, she says, if she had time. And with that, it’s time for the school pick up, and she's got to go. ◆
Home Cook by Thomasina Miers is published by Faber, £25 h/b
absolutely.london
23/03/2017 12:38
R E S TA U R A N T & B A R D E D I C AT E D TO T H E R E G I O N A L C U I S I N E O F P U G L I A
Q U E E N ’ S PA R K 43–45 LONSDALE ROAD, LONDON NW6 6RA 020 7624 8035 HIGHGATE 1 HAMPSTEAD LANE, LONDON N6 4RS O S T U N I R E S T A U R A N T. C O . U K
OSTUNI.indd 1 OS_AbsNH_A4_advert_FINAL_220316.indd 1
25/08/2016 22/03/2016 10:12 18:28
FOOD & DRINK / REVIEW
NATALIE MASSENET and VICTORIA BECKHAM Have been
spotted there
Casa Cruz This plush Notting Hill restaurant is fashion’s new watering hole Wo r d s H a n n a h H o p k i n s
F
irst there was Chiltern Firehouse, then Sexy Fish and Kitty Fisher’s, and now Casa Cruz – based on Notting Hill’s famed Clarendon Road – is the place to see and be seen in the celebrity world. Natalie Massenet, Victoria Beckham, Eugenie Niarchos, Eva Longoria, Roger Vivier, Camille Seydoux, Zac Posen and Sabine Getty (to name a few) have all been spotted at the wood-decked restaurant-come-member’s club space, which offers a sophisticated menu of
surf ‘n’ turf along with dishes with an Argentinean influence. Designed by Santa Cruz himself, who already has three Ritzy restaurants in Buenos Aires: Aldo’s, Isabel and the original Casa Cruz, it’s the perfect place for dining and partying under one roof, including a second-floor smoking patio, where fashion editors, designers and starlets mingle and do business. Tucked behind a luminous copper door (the first sign of the restaurant’s exclusivity), there is a metallic theme throughout – think copper and mahogany streaked walls, complemented by an oval
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bar, emerald banquettes and oil table lamps. There is such an eye to detail that the space even has a signature scent (vetiver and French rose) and soundtrack (Brazilian Bossa Nova turning to rock ‘n’ roll when it gets late), adding to the intimate vibe. The food’s not bad either, with signature dishes like humitas – a typical Chilean appetizer consisting of spiced corn – in abundance on the menu. Cocktails are a (relatively) modest £12 and a meal costs roughly £48 per person. We visit to sample the weekend lunch menu, and naturally the place was packed with well-heeled customers, even at 12pm. Kicking things off with some elderflower cocktails we led into starters like octopus carpaccio with lime, chili and olive Oil and Vitello Tonnato. Mains included a selection of hand made pastas and gnocchi and an extensive Pescados and Carnes list. Perfect for leisurely lunches, the menu also has two daily feasting specials for groups of four or more. Served upon classic silver platters, you can expect the likes of whole salt baked wild sea bass and whole roasted beef fillet, perfect for a lazy long lunch. The only downside? There’s rumoured to be a three-month waiting list…Best get booking now. ◆ C A SA C R UZ 123A Clarendon Road, W11; 0203 321 5400 casacruz.london
absolutely.london
23/03/2017 12:40
77-79 WESTBOURNE GROVE - W2 4UL LONDON - UK Tel: +44 (0) 20 7221 5137 london@devon-devon.com
FLORENCE ·
CHICAGO ·
COPENHAGEN ·
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ISTANBUL ·
LONDON ·
MILAN ·
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NAPLES
NASHVILLE · NICE · PADUA · PARIS · PRAGUE · ROME · SHANGHAI · TBILISI · TEL AVIV · WARSAW · WIEN
DEVON & DEVON.indd 1
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> INTERIOR INSPIRATIONS – COPPER ACCESSORIES AND MORE
p. 62
AT HOME WITH HENRY HOLLAND
p. 66
WELL HUNG Curiousa & Curiousa design and manufacture hand-blown glass lighting in Derbyshire and designer Esther Patterson's first collection was picked up by Liberty soon after she graduated. We love these chintz pendants. POA, curiousa.co.uk
61 Chis_April17_INTERIORS OPENER.indd 61
absolutely.london
23/03/2017 12:42
10 of the best
copper pieces
Modern ideas, designs and styles for your home Wo r d s p e n d l e h a r t e
GANT
Concrete pendant light with copper; £699; limelace.co.uk
CATCHPOLE & RYE
Copper bateau bath, £4,500; catchpoleandrye.com
FIONA MCDONALD
1960s Italian copper and resin ceiling light, £1,245; fionamcdonald.com
DEVOL
Sebastian Cox kitchen, £POA; devolkitchens.co.uk
Indian summer FIONA MCDONALD 1950s Italian copper framed mirror, £720; fionamcdonald.com
ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES
CHIS_April16_Interiors_Notes.indd 62
Lulu & Nat British interiors brand Lulu & Nat is known for its AngloIndian designs. The collection of homewares for grown ups and little ones is generally only available online – but a pop-up store on Golborne Road throughout April will showcase all their lovely bedding, homewares and gift ideas. 90 Golborne Road, W10; luluandnat.com
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HOMES & INTERIORS / NOTES
BYZANTINE BLUE
We d g w o o d Wedgwood’s new Byzance collection in fine bone china wonderfully combines the eclectic, geometric designs of Byzantine architecture dating back to 300 AD. A striking colour palette of sapphire, ruby and gold make it stand out. wedgwood.co.uk
TOM DIXON
Bell table light, £420; tomdixon.net
editor’s
PICK
OCEAN SHADES
Brabantia Even rubbish can be decorative with Brabantia’s new, sustainable bins in daisy yellow, clay pink and moss green. Their environmental credentials are strong, because they are made from 40% recycled materials, – and for every newIcon pedal bin sold, Brabantia donates to The Ocean Cleanup to help rid the oceans of plastic. brabantia.com
THE CONTEMPORARY HOME Copper hanging basket set, £40; tch.net
FIONAMCDONALD
1960s Danish Copper Light fitting by Jo Hammerborg for Fog and Mourn, £850; fionamcdonald.com
BRUSH STROKES
must
Anthropologie New at Anthropologie is a made-toorder service where you can choose chair and sofa shapes and have them upholstered in fabrics of your choice. This Losange chair works particularly well in the painterly Brushstroke print. £998, anthropologie.com
HAVE
FIONAMCDONALD
1980s Russian Copper wall Sculpture, £720; fionamcdonald.com
MIAMI DREAMING
Gemini Tiles The Reflections collection from Gemini tiles is inspired by Miami Beach’s Art Deco architecture and pastel shades, which is just where we'd like to be transported to now please. geminitiles.co.uk
63 CHIS_April16_Interiors_Notes.indd 63
JOHN LEWIS
Copper cookware, from £60; johnlewis.com
absolutely.london
23/03/2017 12:43
XXXXXX / XXXXXXX
Sew O Beautiful
ver 170 years ago, Ernestine Fremaux and her husband founded a linen weaving mill in France, 60 years after the invention of the mechanical loom. It was the dawn of the industrialisation of textile manufacturing and they were in the heart of the industry, Lille. It wasn’t an easy journey. Ernestine’s nephew Paul Fremaux, who had joined the company after a fire destroyed all of the buildings in 1867 marched the company forward hurdle after hurdle. Even when the Second World War almost ruined the industry in northern France, Paul saw opportunity for progression and founded a new company for cotton weaving, modernising what was left of the factories. Generations later in the 1980s, Dominic Fremaux - then president of the company - met Mr Yves Delorme and they joined forces. Yves Delorme became part of the brand portfolio of the family-owned French
Yves Delorme comes to Knightsbridge
By Charlotte Johnstone
Yves Delorme; Mijour
ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES
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HOMES & INTERIORS / PROMOTION
Yves Delorme; Millefiori
Yves Delorme; Entrelacs
company Fremaux-Delorme. The company developed from manufacturing to become one of the most exclusive distributors of fashionable linen collections in the world. With the desire for linen stronger than ever, Yves Delorme’s new flagship store has arrived in London to join the high-end interior designers, galleries and fashion brands of Walton Street in Knightsbridge. The two-floored store will bring together Yves Delorme, the Monogrammed Linen Shop and Yves Delorme Couture as well as Laurence Tavernier nightwear, Iosis cushions and Brinkhaus bedding to offer luxury bedlinen and homeware. Not forgetting the signature MLS monogrammed accoutrements. It’s the only place in London aside from Harrods you can find the Couture range. Traditionally, linen was embroidered with initials, flowers and coats of arms by young girls for their wedding. This bespoke service will allow guests and interior designers the freedom to tailor seven luxurious designs to their own personal requirements with a variety of colours, fabrics, embroideries and sizes to choose. For example the Merveilleuse set, which resembles a wedding dress in itself. Embellished with Chinese flowers,
This BESPOKE service will allow GUESTS and INTERIOR DESIGNERS the FREEDOM to tailor seven LUXURIOUS designs gold curls, Chantilly lace and embroidered by hand, it’s made using a traditional loom in the Hauts-de-France region. Or the Octave, a musical reference which epitomises Ernestine’s weaving heritage, showcasing the art of weaving with a succession of weft thread. Perhaps the Ernestine itself; an elegant ensemble of couched satin stitch, mist cotton sateen and design with personality. An embroidered ‘E’ marks Ernestine and “D” for Delorme incorporated into the beautiful Yves Delorme’s signature swan. In so many ways the timing couldn’t be better. Flowers and buds are starting to blossom and paint the trees and plants
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with colour once again. It’s the time of the year when everything inside starts to look a little subdued and you just want to blow the cobwebs away from the shadows and start over. Yves Delorme’s spring/summer 2017 collection defines this. Inspired by the English country garden, the designs reference Evasion with its range of light and fresh mint greens, blues, heather and pinks; the apricot, raspberry and pomegranate blooms of Millefiori; the finesse and lightness of the countryside in the Senteur designs. And finally, Rivages with a pattern that represents the frontier between land and sea. The collections are manufactured from the finest traditional linen, percale, cotton sateen, jacquard and sateen damask fabric. They offer luxurious softness, comfort and quality in every season. It’s a chance to own a piece of history from a company known for fashion prints based on original artwork and heritage to haute couture, as well as for its timeless classics. ◆
Yves Delorme; Vivaldi
Y V E S D E LO R M E
158 Walton Street London SW3 020 7589 4033; uk.yvesdelorme.com
absolutely.london
23/03/2017 12:43
XXXXXX / XXXXXXX
HOORAY for HENRY
Fashion designer Henry Holland’s new collection for Habitat is an anti-minimalist riot of colour, pattern and texture. Absolutely quizzes him about it Wo r d s P e n d l e H a r t e P h o t o g r a p h y D av i d T i t l o w f o r H a b i t at
PENDLE HARTE: This is your second collection for Habitat. How does it differ from the first one? HENRY HOLLAND: The first collection went really well for us. It was so exciting to see our aesthetic and our prints translated into pieces for the home. So with the second collection we wanted to continue lines that really worked for us, such as the rugs and soft furnishings. Then we added bedding, to make it more boudoirish for the bedroom. PH: Is there a theme for it? HH: Our prints for the SS17 fashion were inspired by Romany travellers with a mixture of florals and ginghams with lots of frills and flounce. We looked at Josef Koudelka’s photography of traveller communities from the Eastern Bloc. I love the brazen mix of bold pattern used to express personality through their clothing and how a clash of materials and colour makes a bold personal statement. I wanted to capture this idea for the home. There are lots of different textures and patchworking, so we brought that to the interiors range. We’ve also fitted out a room at the Hoxton Hotel with the collection, so people can stay in it and try before they buy.
ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES
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HOMES & INTERIORS / Q&A
MAXIMALISM is, obviously, ONE OF MY favourite TRENDS
PH: What are your favourite pieces? HH: The wool rug is my favourite. It’s hand-woven in India and the pile is cut at different heights to create a 3D effect, which is really clever. It’s been really exciting for me getting to work in different techniques. Floral embroidery is used on punchy gingham cushions - a hand-knit ‘net’ throw in lime overlays the pattern of our digitally printed Boho bedding in a homage to Noa Eshkol. The hand-carved Folklore rug – which takes five days to make - has 3D florals leaping out from the floor. We’ve also introduced our first ‘slogan’ cushion in a nod to House of Holland’s 10th birthday and completed the collection with the retro Misty armchair reimagined in a hot pink velvet with blue trim. PH: Why Habitat? HH: I love Habitat. I think when you start
67 Chis_April17_HENRY HOLLAND.indd 67
absolutely.london
23/03/2017 12:41
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HOMES & INTERIORS / Q&A Maximalism is obviously one of my favourite trends, which I think expresses escapism and shows a reaction against people feeling fed up of not being listened to. It’s also part of the British tradition of over-the-top eccentricity. I’d love to do our Rave Nana collection from 2013 as an interiors collection, with lots of acid lap blankets and throws. PH: What do you do to relax? HH: Sleep! And exercise. PH: Where do you like to shop, eat and drink? HH: I don’t really do shopping. Working in this industry does skew your brain a bit in terms of fashion shopping. PH: What’s next for House of Holland? HH: I’m going to do some sportswear in collaboration with Umbro, and I’ve got a Woody Woodpecker project with Universal coming up. And I don’t know - maybe we’ll do children’s rooms, fun vintage ones. I hope we’ll be doing more for Habitat. There are lots of areas to explore. We could do wallpapers and upholstery fabrics and lots of prints. There is so much scope! ◆ habitat.co.uk/henry
going to Habitat – and stop going to Ikea – you really start to feel like a grown up. PH: Where do you live and what is your house like? HH: My home is in Victoria Park. The house is much less mental than you’d imagine. I’ve got white walls and sanded floors – all the colour and texture is in the artwork – apart from a multi-coloured marble parquet floor in the bathroom, inspired by Martin Creed’s pink parlour at Sketch and his amazing Scotsman Steps in Edinburgh. I love him. My mum is an antiques dealer and she has a chateau in France so she brings me back lots of 50s pieces from markets. I like vintage and modern pieces mixed together; I like putting things together that you wouldn’t usually. PH: How does fashion translate into interiors? HH: I think lots of trends extend into various areas of life, reflecting social changes and the world around us.
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absolutely.london
23/03/2017 12:42
Westonbirt gave me the opportunities to be Head Girl and to play lacrosse for England. I was successful in gaining a place to read Medicine at Bristol University Emily
From Sept’17: Day Fee £4,995/term; Boarding Fee £9,750/term. E: admissions@westonbirt.org T: 01666 880333 www.westonbirt.org WESTONBIRT.indd 1 WBS - British Edu Singapore A4 - 4.11.16.indd 2
01/02/2017 04/11/2016 11:37 15:48
> SMALL TALK – COLLABS AND GIFT IDEAS
p.73
EDUCATION – NETWORKING FOR PARENTS
p.75
LINEN LOVE Natural fabrics and neutral tones lie at the core of this brand’s timeless appeal, and their SS17 collection manages to combine the two with simplicity and grace. Softly understated clothes that nonetheless deserve to be in the spotlight. Available at harrods.com
71 Chis_April16_Kids Opener.indd 71
absolutely.london
23/03/2017 12:39
WE WANT THE BEST FOR YOUR DAUGHTER TOO A Cheltenham Ladies’ College education is about more than academic excellence; it’s about making mistakes and learning from them; it’s about winning magnanimously and losing graciously; it’s about wellbeing for life, and it’s about looking ahead and meeting the challenges to come.
CHELTENHAM LADIES COLLEGE.indd 1
We may not be able to predict the future, but we can certainly give your daughter the skills to flourish whatever it brings. Open Days: 15th May and 30th June 2017 Find out more: www.cheltladiescollege.org
22/03/2017 16:40
KIDS & EDUCATION / NOTES
BRAND FOCUS
DREAM TEAM T he B right C om pa ny
The SS17 pyjama collection features two new prints: ‘Calder’ and ‘Spotty Arrows’, inspired by the eponymous sculptor. We love that there are adult versions too, so your whole team can match. thebrightcompany.co.uk
PIUPIA Quirky Portuguese design for babies
SMALL TALK Exciting collaborations, gift ideas and togs for mother and child
EGG ACTIVITY
Nosy Crow Books Press out and colour these lovely paper eggs from Kate McLelland's new book Press Out and Colour Easter Eggs,, then hang them on a branch and your Easter tree will be a (chocolate-free) thing of joy. £9.98, nosycrow.com
piupia.co.uk
UP IN THE AIR
IT’S A WRAP
Little Lulubel ¢ Balloons don’t come better than these giant examples. Filled with star confetti, they’re the perfect addition to your little’s birthday. Head to the website for more natty decorations. £15 for a giant balloon kit; littlelulubel.com
Organic Zoo ¢ We love a baby kimono – easier to get on and off (less annoying for baby) and more stylish than a romper, chiming as they do with the trend for Japanese minimalism. ◆ £24; ministylin.com
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C
laudia Carvalho hails from Guimarães, a small town in the north of Portugal known for two things: being the birthplace of Portugal (the Portuguese call it the nation’s crib) and being a major textile manufacturing hub. After a career as a graphic designer in Barcelona and a 3D artist in London, Carvalho turned to designing children’s clothing. Under her watchful eye, garments are made to the highest specification. The adorable baby bonnets are made from 100% organic cotton and lined with repurposed fleece. From knitted baby cardigans to organic sweats, the colour palettes are seasonal and sumptuous. Comfortable, ethical but also stylishly designed, Piupia is one of the quirkier brands to bookmark this year. ◆
absolutely.london
23/03/2017 12:38
THE APP ALL PARENTS NEED Download the Absolutely Education app to stay up-to-date with the latest news from the UK’s best schools
The Absolutely Education app covers every aspect of an independent education with insightful articles by leading journalists, tops tips from stellar heads and features covering the critical topics of the day. Download the app now to receive every issue before it hits stores
OR Through our preferred partner
ABS ED PRINT.indd 1
08/03/2017 12:02
KIDS & EDUCATION / SCHOOL TALK
MAKING the GRADE
Some GCSEs will receive numerical marks this summer. But some will still be letters. Confused? Absolutely makes sense of the changes Wo r d s a m a n d a c o n s ta n c e
GRADE 9 is being referred BY SOME AS AN A**- it will be awarded TO ONLY 3% OF PUPILS
IMAGE IVAN QUETGLAS
W
hen this year’s GCSE students receive their results this summer some will be the ‘old-style’ grades of ABC and some will be numerically graded 1-9. Pupils sitting exams in English Literature, English Language and Maths will receive a grade between 1 and 9 with 9 being the highest grade awarded. These are the first GCSEs of a new system that is replacing the current system of A*-G, with 9 as the highest achievable grade and 1 as the lowest (although there will also be a grade U for those who fail to achieve the minimum requirements for grade 1). These three ‘new’ GCSEs have been taught since September 2015 as linear courses taken over two full years, rather than by modular assessment and finishing with written exams. Others have since been launched; by summer 2019, all GCSEs that are sat will be the new GCSEs graded by the numerical system.
A pupil at Oundle
In this new system, Grade 5 will be considered a ‘good pass’, with performance tables focusing on students achieving grades 9-5. The old system takes a grade C as a benchmark for a ‘good pass’, but the new grade 5 will be equivalent to a low B or high C - thus a ‘good pass’ mark will become harder to achieve than previously. The current top two grades (A* and A) will be replaced with three top grades (7,8 and 9). Grade 9 is being referred to by some as an A**, as it will
75 Chis_April17_Education.indd 75
only be awarded to approximately the top 3% nationally. This, the Government says, will bring the UK in line with some of the top performing education systems around the world. The changes aim to restore lost faith in GCSEs. Results have risen year on year which, according to a Dof E source, has masked “the fact that standards were stagnating”. A* and A grades have become a devalued currency awarded to students, which in turn has devalued the B grade. The reforms are also an attempt to do away with ‘resit culture’ which often saw pupils sitting
absolutely.london
23/03/2017 12:37
Ann’s Designer Cakes Artisan Cakes for all Occasions
020 8644 8523 | www.annsdesignercakes.com
ANN'S DESIGNERS CAKES_V2.indd 2
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A picturesque nature reserve in the heart of London... a unique venue for the perfect wedding Hold your ceremony at WWT London Wetland Centre, a lush oasis with lakes, ponds and meadows. Witing the spectacular setting of this work famous conversation site we have two rooms licensed for wedding ceremonies and civil partnerships - Wetland Living - a fisherman’s hut replica in the middle of the reserve and the Water’s edge room.
020 8409 4400 functions.london@wwt.org.uk wwt.org.uk
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22/03/2017 16:49
23/03/2017 12:56
KIDS & EDUCATION / SCHOOL TALK
PARENTS are concerned THAT THE NEW TOUGHER
GCSEs could devalue THE OLD ONES
units repeatedly until they had achieved the desired grade. Barnaby Lenon, Chairman of the Independent Schools Council and a board member of exam regulator Ofqual says the experiments with continous teacher assessment in the past few years “as been disastrous”. “Many teachers hate it because they come under huge pressure to get good marks for all pupils (where do you think grade inflation came from?) and because these ‘controlled assessments’ have been found to be intensely dull.” Those in favour of the changes see them as returning some rigour and discipline to the exam system. In this year’s Maths GCSE, for example, pupils will be expected to learn key formulae by heart and there will be greater emphasis on non-calculator work. Whereas previously, as little as 25
per cent of exams were ‘non calculator’, new GCSEs will need to include between 30-50 per cent non-calculator work. In the English language GCSEs students will be required to read a greater range of challenging literature and non-fiction texts and there will be greater emphasis on the correct use of spelling, punctuation and grammar. In English literature, which will no longer be compulsory, pupils will have to assess a 19th century novel, a Shakespeare play, a selection of poetry since 1789 and a British fiction or drama from 1914 onwards. There will also be emphasis on ‘unseen texts’ in the exam. Some parents have voiced concerns that these ‘tougher’ GCSES will devalue those that have gone before them. Will those awarded GCSEs in 2016 or 2015 be viewed less favourably in the job market for example? And some parents have questioned the bias that final year exams have towards boys. Girls naturally perform better with continuous assessment. And some think it’s putting too much pressure on young shoulders. Two petitions against the reformed GCSEs had garnered 130,000 signatures by mid-February. The petitions said that GCSE students should not be expected to memorise formulas and quotes during their exams this year with one demanding pupils should be allowed to use a formula sheet for their Maths GCSE. And the other petitioned against closed book
Students: facing confusion?
77 Chis_April17_Education.indd 77
GRADING NEW GCSES FROM 2017 NEW GRADING STRUCTURE
CURRENT GRADING STRUCTURE
9
A*
8
A
7 6 5 4
GOOD PASS (DfE)
5 & above = top of C and above
B
AWARDING
C
4 & above = bottom of C & above
3
D E F G U
2 1 U The Ofqual chart of GCSE changes
exams for the English GCSE stating: “Exams shouldn’t be a test on the student’s memory, but how we interpret texts.” And there is concern about that running old and new grades alongside each other will cause confusion. Nigel Lashbrook, Headmaster of Oakham School, says: “The introduction of a new grading system (1 - 9 ) for the new GCSEs which runs alongside the old grading (A* G) for the legacy GCSEs is frustrating for everyone, regardless of whether you teach in a maintained or independent school. Two grading systems which do not directly correlate (a grade 9 is above not equivalent to an A* grade, for example) makes it very difficult for those outside education to make sense of what they really mean, employers, for example. At Oakham we have communicated very carefully with all of our parents with regards to the two systems but there will inevitably be some confusion until the assessment at 16+ evolves into one grading system - but that will not happen for some time.” But Barnaby Lenon dismisses these concerns. “”There should be no confusion. A grade 4 is the same as an old grade C. A grade 7 is the same as an old grade A. For more information, the Ofqual chart (pictured, above) is a useful guide which details how the grades read across.” Lenon insists the changes are “a very good thing”, particularly because “there is now greater differentiation at the top end of the ability range. This is important because too many pupils have been getting A and A * grades which has meant that the more selective universities have been unable to select on the basis of GCSE grades.”◆
absolutely.london
23/03/2017 12:37
CONTEMPORARY ELEGANCE IN THE HEART OF THE CITY CITY OF LONDON | OPENING APRIL 2017
DISCOVER MORE info.city@dorsetthotels.com dorsetthotels.com/unitedkingdom/london/city
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> ESCAPE TO CORNWALL
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COAST ALONG The Cornish coast is one of the UK's best destinations, whether you surf or not. Absolutely enjoys a surf-free family break by the beach at Polzeath.
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absolutely.london
23/03/2017 12:36
Join us at the Park Terrace Restaurant and enjoy fresh, delicious cuisine while taking in views of Kensington Gardens. Executive Chef Steve Munkley and his talented team draw on the finest ingredients from sustainable sources to create seasonal menus that are always delicious.
2-24 KENSINGTON HIGH STREET LONDON W8 4PT TEL +44 (0)20 7361 0602 FAX +44 (0)20 7361 1991 WWW.ROYALGARDENHOTEL.CO.UK
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TRAVEL / UK GETAWAY THE AREA
P
olzeath is a tiny beach town on Cornwall’s north coast, within easy reach of Padstow and Port Isaac. It’s an area of stunning natural beauty, whatever the season. Port Isaac is atmospherically beautiful and Rick Stein’s Padstow is famously wellequipped with seafood establishments.
ACCOMMODATION
S
even stylish, contemporary and high-specification residences were built last year to take full advantage of the impressive view over a wildflower meadow and to the sea. Ours is Bailey, a spacious three bedroom house with an upside down configuration – open-plan living area upstairs, bedrooms below, to take full advantage of the light and the view. Our living area has floor-to-ceiling windows that create a dramatic vista and it’s equipped with everything you need. There’s a large dining table and a wellequipped kitchen, underfloor heating as well as a large free-standing wood burning stove, ample sofa space, a huge smart tv and even (to our children’s great joy) two outsize beanbags that you can jump off the stairs on to.
THE POINT AT POLZEATH C O R N WA L L
Wo r d s p e n d l e h a r t e
WHAT TO DO
O
bviously, surf. The nearest beach, at Polzeath, is a 15-minute walk away and there are others all around. Otherwise, walking, eating and shopping are good activities. We visited the Eden Project, a small drive away, with its impressive rainforest biome offering some welcome relief from the chill. At 50 metres tall, this is the world’s largest rainforest in captivity and it is filled with tropical plants, a real waterfall and an awe-inspiring treetop walkway.
THE SITE
T
his is a golf course (though golf is optional) and there’s a health club attached, free to use for anyone staying, with a pool, gym, dance studio and a programme of classes including spin and yoga. There’s a trail of walking routes and a great feeling of space, sky and freedom. Dogs are welcome too.
THE DAMAGE Three bedroom cottages start at £600 per week The Point at Polzeath, St Minver, Near Polzeath, Cornwall, PL27 6QT 01208 864 603; thepointatpolzeath.co.uk
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absolutely.london
23/03/2017 12:34
What are they going to see from down there, really?
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The heart wants what the heart wants. Discover penthouse flats with city views using keyword search.
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ABBEY ROAD
FRAMING
Picture Frames, Mirrors, Prints, Cards & Gifts
020 7328 6915
67 Abbey Road St John’s Wood London NW8 0AE
ABBEY ROAD FRAMING.CO.UK ABBEY ROAD FRAMING NH.indd 1 AbsolutelyNottingHill&Kensington-1612-AbbeyRoadFraming.indd 1
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23/03/2017 12:57
PROPERTY NEWS
p.94
NIGEL LEWIS: FAMOUS PLACES
CHELSEA CREEK TOWER SW6
IN THEIR OWN WORDS
p.110
his spacious three-bedroom apartment epitomises riverside living at its best. Situated on the fourth floor at Marina Point, part of the popular development Imperial Wharf, the apartment comprises a multi-aspect reception with ample space for dining, open-plan with a fully fitted kitchen. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer panoramic views of the River Thames and beyond, best viewed from the private balcony. u
T
ÂŁ1,595 PW
IMPERIAL WHARF 020 7348 7620 brlets.co.uk
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absolutely.london
23/03/2017 15:12
Blithfield Street, W8 ÂŁ1,450 per week Fees Apply A beautiful family house that has been refurbished to a high standard on this pretty tree-lined street in Stratford Village. The ground floor is comprised of a generous living space through to dining area and separate kitchen with access to the sun-filled conservatory. Upstairs a large bathroom benefits two double bedrooms, a private west-facing terrace on the half-landing with the master suite and four th bedroom on the top floor. EPC = C. Reception room, four bedrooms, two bathrooms, kitchen, conservatory and terrace. Unfurnished. 020 7937 9976 jared@mountgrangeheritage.co.uk
mountgrangeheritage.co.uk
Kensington 020 7937 9976
MOUNTGRANGE.indd Absolutely APR 3.indd 21
North Kensington 020 8960 0181
Notting Hill 020 7221 2277
20/03/2017 15:12 3/16/17 11:43 AM
Cadogan Gardens, SW3 ÂŁ 845 per week Fees Apply A stunning south-facing one bedroom apartment. This lovely raised ground floor flat comprises of a large open-plan kitchen, reception room leading directly on to Cadogan Gardens (communal access). Double bedroom and in addition there is storage/dressing area and a fully tiled bathroom with shower over bath. The flat benefits from wiring for satellite television and wood flooring throughout. Cadogan Gardens is a sought after address moments from the many restaurants, shops and services of Knightsbridge and Chelsea. EPC = C. Reception room, bedroom, bathroom, kitchen and use of communal gardens. Available now. Furnished/Unfurnished. Sole Agents 020 7221 2277 karina@mountgrangeheritage.co.uk
mountgrangeheritage.co.uk
Kensington 020 7937 9976
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North Kensington 020 8960 0181
Notting Hill 020 7221 2277
20/03/2017 15:12 3/16/17 11:44 AM
Have you thought about what your property is worth? If you are considering selling or renting, or would simply like to know the current value of your property, we’d love to hear from you.
020 7221 2277 hello@mountgrangeheritage.co.uk
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Salem Road, W2 £ 1,400 per week Fees Apply Stunning house in this hidden gem of a development in Bayswater moments from Queensway and Westbourne Grove. EPC=C. Reception room, three bedrooms, two bathrooms, kitchen and two terraces. Furnished. Sole Agents
020 7221 2277 karina@mountgrangeheritage.co.uk
The Vale, SW3 £ 6,250 per week Fees Apply Spectacular Grade II listed house on this sleepy Chelsea street moments from the Kings Road and a short walk to the river. EPC= C. Three reception rooms, six bedrooms, four bathrooms, kitchen, garden and roof terrace. Also available for SHORT LETS at £10,000 per week. Furnished. Sole Agents
020 7937 9976 jared@mountgrangeheritage.co.uk
Caro Point, SW1 £ 545 per week Fees Apply An immaculate apartment in this exclusive waterside development within walking distance to Victoria station and Sloane Square. EPC=C. Reception room, bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, balcony and parking space. Furnished. Sole Agents
020 7937 9976 jared@mountgrangeheritage.co.uk
, St Luke s Mews, W11 £495 per week Fees Apply
Wilby Mews, W11 £ 1,850 per week Fees Apply
A superb architecturally designed house, facing south and benefiting from exquisite light, situated in this wonderful cobbled mews very close to Portobello Road and a short walk from Westbourne Grove. EPC=C. Reception room, bedroom, two bathroom, and kitchen. Furnished. Sole Agents
Exceptional property reconfigured and finished to a superb standard to provide two double bedrooms and a lovely first floor open-plan reception space. The house is at the end of this cobbled mews in the very heart of Notting Hill and, as it faces due south, is flooded with natural light. EPC=C. Reception room, two bedrooms, two bathrooms and kitchen. SHORT LET. Furnished. Sole Agents
020 7221 2277 karina@mountgrangeheritage.co.uk
020 7221 2277 karina@mountgrangeheritage.co.uk
mountgrangeheritage.co.uk
Kensington 020 7937 9976
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North Kensington 020 8960 0181
Notting Hill 020 7221 2277
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Westbourne Park Road, W11 ÂŁ 975,000 Leasehold A beautiful flat on the top floor of this period house which has been redesigned to create loft-style living. The vaulted ceilings and full-height doorways maximise the space and deliver an uber cool apartment which is elegant yet practical. Accommodation comprises of two bedrooms, two bathrooms and an open-plan kitchen/reception room. Just moments from Portobello Road and a five minute walk from Westbourne Grove and Golborne Road, this really is the perfect Notting Hill pad. Please note photos as previously furnished. EPC=D. Reception room, two bedrooms, open-plan kitchen and two bathrooms. Sole Agents 020 7221 2277 tim@mountgrangeheritage.co.uk
mountgrangeheritage.co.uk
Kensington 020 7937 9976
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North Kensington 020 8960 0181
Notting Hill 020 7221 2277
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Dalgarno Gardens, W10 ÂŁ1,750,000 Freehold Superb family house which offers generous and versatile living space. This exceptionally bright property has been tastefully updated and extended creating a stylish and spacious family home. Set across three floors only the house comprises of double reception room, fully-fitted kitchen opening to a beautiful south-facing rear garden, WC, four double bedrooms (one en suite). Dalgarno Gardens runs off Highlever Road in North Kensington, the exciting redevelopment of the BBC Centre and White City development, including the hugely anticipated arrival of Soho House and is equidistant to White City and Latimer Road tube station. The fabulous amenities of Westfield, Notting Hill, Portobello Road and Golborne Road are within easy reach. EPC=E. Double reception room, four bedrooms, two bathrooms, kitchen/dining room and garden. Joint Agents 020 8960 0181 shauna@mountgrangeheritage.co.uk
mountgrangeheritage.co.uk
Kensington 020 7937 9976
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North Kensington 020 8960 0181
Notting Hill 020 7221 2277
20/03/2017 15:16 3/16/17 1:22 PM
Marloes Road, W8 ÂŁ3,500,000 Freehold A wonderful opportunity to acquire an unmodernised early Victorian Terrace period family house, (originally built as Devonshire Terrace in 1851), with off-street parking, and good size garden, in the heart of Kensington. The front exterior features a continuous iron balcony below first floor windows and a stringcourse decorated with guilloche ornamentation below those on the second floor. The property has been in the same family for many years and now offers tremendous scope to refurbish and reconfigure to suit the personal taste of the incoming purchaser. There could also be potential to extend the house at the rear, subject to the necessary planning consents. The accommodation at present totals 2,432 sq ft of internal space, along with a 33' west-facing garden. Marloes Road is conveniently located between Gloucester Road, Earls Court and High Street Kensington underground stations whilst the open green spaces of Holland Park and Hyde Park (Kensington Gardens) are also close by. EPC=G. Two reception rooms, four bedrooms, two bathrooms, kitchen, balcony and off-street parking. Sole Agents 020 7937 9976 gabriella@mountgrangeheritage.co.uk
mountgrangeheritage.co.uk
Kensington 020 7937 9976
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North Kensington 020 8960 0181
Notting Hill 020 7221 2277
20/03/2017 15:16 3/16/17 1:23 PM
Logan Mews, W8 £2,650,000 Freehold Located on a private, cobbled mews moments from ‘Stratford Village’ this low-built freehold house boasts charm and style. The property offers generous entertaining space, wonderful natural light and a high quality finish throughout. Accommodation includes an elegant reception room and large dining area with bespoke walnut units, contemporary eat-in kitchen with natural stone flooring and underfloor heating, master bedroom with ample handmade walnut wardrobes and an en suite bathroom with underfloor heating, three further bedrooms (one currently used as a dressing room), family bathroom, shower room, utility room, beautiful decked roof terrace which is perfect for al-fresco dining thanks to the kitchenette area on the same floor and a parking space directly outside the house. Its setting is both tranquil and convenient as it is perfectly positioned for the extensive transport and shopping facilities on Kensington High Street and Earls Court Road. Holland Park is a short walk away. EPC=D. Reception room, four bedrooms, three bathrooms, utility room, roof terrace and parking. Joint Agents 020 7937 9976 michael@mountgrangeheritage.co.uk
mountgrangeheritage.co.uk
Kensington 020 7937 9976
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North Kensington 020 8960 0181
Notting Hill 020 7221 2277
20/03/2017 15:16 3/16/17 1:25 PM
PROPERTY R O U N D U P
THE INSIDE SCOOP IN YOUR AREA
Most satisfying transaction
HOUSE HUNTING
I sold a house for a couple who were about to retire. They bought their house for roughly £5,000 fourty years prior and sold recently for just under £1,000,000.
Most interesting property I’ve been involved with: by ANDREW MOORES SALES MANAGER John D Wood & Co.
We sold a property in Fulham, in 2014 which was then extended and refurbished. We sold it again for just over £1,000,000 more than they paid.
I never thought I’d see: I HAVE SEEN THE ODD BIT OF INDUSTRIAL CHIC CREEPING INTO THE WEST
I learnt my trade in Shoreditch and East London where I couldn’t escape industrial design. Fulham’s general default décor is somewhat different however, I have seen the odd bit of ‘industrial chic’ creeping into the West.
Finest property showcase: Lillie Road, Fulham, SW6 Guide price £2.5 million This house is so interesting and unusual, full of history and real local stories.
FULHAM BROADWAY / 020 7731 1487 / johndwood.co.uk
SPOTLIGHT ON
PRIME CENTRAL LONDON
£46.17
-4% -3%
3 year change
FULHAM & CHELSEA
£42.88
1 year change
NOTTING HILL & KENSINGTON
2016
Let by price per square foot per annum – whole years
+2% +2% Sourced from LonRes
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PROPERTY / NEWS Just Sold
New Build
Agent On Design
by RAPHAEL FITOUSSI
KINGS ROAD, FULHAM
STANHOPE GARDENS
SALES MANAGER KFH
Since the referendum there’s been a lot of speculation about the slow-down of the London property market. It’s certainly true that buyers are approaching the market with more caution, but there are still plenty of motivated house hunters looking for their dream home. Our recent sale of this two bedroom, ground floor flat in Queensberry Place is a perfect example of that. This property was sold within two days of being instructed and completed in less than three months! Good quality property priced realistically is still generating a lot of interest and multiple offers. And the market is picking up. Last year, economic uncertainty created a lag in the market as uncertain buyers and sellers held back waiting for more positive conditions. This lag is beginning to filter back into the market and now is a great time to take advantage.
SW 6 , £ 1 , 2 0 0,0 0 0 Lord Palmerston Court is a new boutique development of five luxury apartments, positioned within close proximity to the King's Road. Featuring two 1-bedroom, two 2-bedroom apartments and a penthouse. Designed by award winning Claridge Architects with interiors by KS Designs, it is finished to the highest standard.
SW 7, £4 , 6 5 0,0 0 0 When an award-winning architect designs a home, it is sure to make an impression. A five-bedroom mid-century Georgian style home in South Kensington has been completely refurbished by architect Carl Turner. Showcasing modern, minimalistic approach to design, the features include dedicated bar space and roof terrace.
KNIGHT FRANK
KNIGHT FRANK
Fulham, 020 7751 2400; knightfrank.com
South Kensington, 020 7871 4111; knightfrank.com
News
THE RICHMOND MAY BALL 2017 SELLING OUT FAST The Richmond May Ball is already three quarters full and the remaining tables are selling fast! Another great evening raising money for deserving locally-based charities is promised on Friday 12th May. This year's Richmond May Ball will be in support of two charities; React, based in Kew who provide urgent assistance for low income families looking after children with life limiting illnesses; and The Poppy Factory, who have been at the heart of our community in Richmond, supporting disabled veterans into employment for over 90 years. The Ball committee would be delighted to hear from would-be guests - and of course from would-be sponsors and prize donors. For further information contact: richmondmayball@gmail.com
MEET THE TEAM CHESTERTONS
“Good quality property priced realistically is still generating a lot of interest” KFH
South Kensington, 020 3792 2172; kf h.co.uk
CLAIRE ENNIS
DANIEL TAYLOR
HENRY WATSON
ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR (LETTINGS)
ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR (SALES)
ASSOCIATE LISTER (SALES)
My career in property began over 10 years ago, starting at a boutique independent agency in Dublin. After relocating to London in 2011, I began my time in Prime Central London with two large estate agencies before joining Chestertons in 2015. I pride myself on offering the best customer service and advice to all my clients.
I have operated in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea for the last 7 years, specialising in the sale and acquisition of residential property. Working within the industry during the past few years has been challenging with the ever changing political and economic climate, but it's also what makes my role interesting.
I graduated with a Masters in property investment in 2008 and have been working ever since in the Central London residential sales market. I have established some very long standing relationships and I am always striving to achieve the best possible results for my clients through hard work.
KENSINGTON / 020 7937 7244 / chestertons.com
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absolutely.london
23/03/2017 15:14
275 Willesden Lane, NW2 5JA 020 8459 1133 enquiries@cameronsstiff.co.uk
EPC - C
WALM LANE, NW2
£3,895,000 Freehold
A beautifully refurbished red brick double fronted detached house laid out over three floors comprising 3901 sq ft of outstanding accommodation situated within the stunning Mapesbury Conservation Area. Contemporary style living combined with period features. Viewing is highly recommended.
• 6 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 3 reception rooms • 34 ft rear kitchen/dining room + utility room • 60 ft rear garden, off street parking • Close to Willesden Green Station (Jubilee)
EPC - D
HARDINGE ROAD, NW10
£1,425,000 Freehold
We are delighted to offer for sale this 1920’s semi-detached house in a popular quiet area of the family friendly Kensal Rise. Accommodation comprises of just over 1800 sq ft with an impressive loft conversation with master suite. High ceilings, original features including wooden flooring. Good transport links. Early viewing recommended.
• 4 bedrooms, family bathroom • Large open plan reception room • Light, beautiful well established garden • Summer room with wooden decking
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EPC - D
TEIGNMOUTH ROAD, NW2
£2,899,950 Freehold
Situated within the Mapesbury Conservation Area is this bright & spacious 2600 sq ft Edwardian property benefitting from many original features - tessellated flooring and sash windows. Convenient position close to Willesden Green Station (Jubilee). Viewing essential.
• 5/6 beds, 3 reception rooms • Master bedroom + dressing room • 25 ft open plan kitchen/breakfast rm • 97 ft rear garden, OSP for 2 cars
EPC - D
AYLESTONE AVENUE, NW6
£2,595,000 Freehold
Situated in the sought after Brondesbury Park is this exceptionally spacious and beautifully presented semi-detached home, providing 3113 sq ft of lateral living. The house is within walking distance of the green open spaces of Queens Park, the bustling Salusbury Road with its eateries and good schools. Great position.
• 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms (2 en-suite) • Bright reception rooms • Stylish extended eat in kitchen • 100 ft westerly facing garden & OSP
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62 Salusbury Road, NW6 6NS 020 7328 2828 enquiries@cameronsstiff.co.uk
EPC - C
THE AVENUE, NW6
£745,000 Share of Freehold
Meticulously designed by the current owner we offer this fantastic one/two bedroom raised ground floor apartment, conveniently located within a short distance to many amenities and transport links including Kilburn Jubilee Line, Brondesbury Overground and Queens Park Bakerloo Line Stations.
• Wood flooring • 2 bedrooms, floor to ceiling doors • German designer kitchen • South facing private balcony
EPC - D
TORBAY ROAD, NW6
£1,550,000 Freehold
A beautifully presented mid-terraced house arranged over three floors with the loft converted on a popular quiet road in the heart of North Kilburn Conservation Area. Great access to transport including Queens Park (Bakerloo) and Brondesbury Park (Overground). Full of period features.
• 4 bedrooms, family bathroom + en-suite • Intercommunicating reception rooms • 19 ft modern kitchen/diner • Sunny rear garden of 38 ft
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EPC - D
KEMPE ROAD, NW6
£1,850,000 Freehold
A substantial centre terraced period property arranged over three floors, situated in this premium location on this quiet residential road, close to the green open spaces of Queens Park. Abundant with charm & character and in fabulous position. Viewing of this lovely home is highly recommended.
• 4 bedrooms, 2 receptions, bathroom • Many beautiful period features • Recently renovated throughout • 33 ft mature rear garden
EPC - E
KEMPE ROAD, NW6
£1,899,950 Freehold
A charming four bedroom end of terrace period house available for sale on one of the area’s premier roads, located between the green open spaces of Queens Park & Chamberlayne Road with its selection of cafes & shops. Sunny rear 50 ft rear garden.
• 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms • 25 ft double reception room • Light bright 20 ft kitchen/diner onto garden • Great transport links
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BROOK GREEN 138 SHEPHERDS BUSH ROAD W6 7PB SHEPHERDS BUSH 113 ASKEW ROAD W12 9AS ACTON 27 CHURCHFIELD ROAD W3 6BD
www.finlaybrewer.co.uk
STERNDALE ROAD W14 £1,650PW / £7,150PCM
MASBRO ROAD W14 £1,450PW / £6,282PCM
• 5/6 BEDROOM HOUSE • 2 RECEPTIONS • KITCHEN/BREAKFAST ROOM
• 5 DOUBLE BEDROOMS • RECEPTION • KITCHEN/BREAKFAST ROOM
• 4 BATHROOMS • SOUTHERLY GARDEN • EPC RATING D 63
• 3 BATHROOMS • WESTERLY GARDEN • EPC RATING D 60
LETTINGS 020 7371 4071
LETTINGS 020 7371 4071
UPPER MALL W6 £1,500PW / £6,500PCM
ROWAN ROAD W6 £680PW / £2,947PCM
• 4 DOUBLE BEDROOMS • 2 FLOORS OF LIVING SPACE • 4 BATHROOMS
• 2 DOUBLE BEDROOM HOUSE • DOUBLE RECEPTION • KITCHEN/BREAKFAST ROOM
LETTINGS 020 7371 4071
• WOOD FLOORS • 2 COURTYARD GARDENS • EPC RATING D 57
• SHOWER ROOM • GARDEN & OSP • EPC RATING E 51
LETTINGS 020 7371 4071
LOCAL . INDEPENDENT . INVOLVED
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WOLVERTON GARDENS W6 GUIDE £2.75M FREEHOLD
WINGATE ROAD W6 GUIDE £2.6M FREEHOLD
• 5 DOUBLE BEDROOMS • DOUBLE RECEPTION • KITCHEN/DINING ROOM
• 5 BEDROOMS • RECEPTION • KITCHEN/BREAKFAST ROOM
• PLAYROOM/FAMILY ROOM • WESTERLY GARDEN • EPC RATING C 71
• PLAYROOM/MEDIA ROOM • 51' APX GARDEN & OSP • EPC RATING D 60
BROOK GREEN 020 7371 4171
BROOK GREEN 020 7371 4171
HAMMERSMITH GROVE W6 GUIDE £2M FREEHOLD
ANLEY ROAD W14 GUIDE £1.425M FREEHOLD
• 4 DOUBLE BEDROOMS • DOUBLE RECEPTION • KITCHEN/BREAKFAST ROOM
• 4 BEDROOMS • RECEPTION • KITCHEN/BREAKFAST ROOM
• MEDIA/PLAYROOM • 82' GARDEN & OSP • EPC RATING D 60
BROOK GREEN 020 7371 4171
• 2 SHOWER ROOMS • 2 ROOF TERRACES • EPC RATING D 66
BROOK GREEN 020 7371 4171
LOCAL . INDEPENDENT . INVOLVED
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PROPERTY / COUNTRYSIDE
BECKENHAM £1.395M
FA M O U S P L AC E S by N I G E L L E W I S
London hides a plethora of celebrity homes. These are the most recent to come on the market
LINCOLN SQUARE STARTING FROM
£900,000
TV HOTEL HEAVEN
T
he world of luxury hotels during the 1940s has been on our television screens recently during The Halycon, the ITV series starring Kara Tointon, Beverley Knight and Olivia Williams. The fictitious hotel is set in Lincoln In Fields although the interior scenes were shot in the Land Registry’s former headquarters around the corner. Fans may recall one of the recent episodes in which the characters
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endure the horror of London’s wartime Blitz bombing raids. The scenes were filmed on a building site that had recently been cleared to make way for a new block of luxury flats. When finished, the Lincoln Square development by developer Lodha UK will include luxury one, two three and four bedroom apartments set within this central oasis, rich in famous academic, legal and cultural institutions. Prices start at £900,000. More information from joint agents Knight Frank and CBRE on 020 7004 0910 or visit www.lincolnsquare.co.uk.
JANE’S HOME SWEET HOME
M
illions of TV viewers watched Jane Beedle nearly win the most recent Great British Bake Off, and now she’s selling her Beckenham home to escape to the country or, to be more precise, Kent. Jane is selling her six-bedroom home in Beckenham, SW London which she and her husband bought six years ago, as refurb project. The property used to be the local Conservative Party constituency office and the first thing they had to do was convert it from office to residential use, which took six months. “During that time the only cooking facilities I had was a kettle and a plugin frying pan; it’s amazing what you can cook with one of those,” she says. Jane says that now their children have flown the nest, it’s time to downsize and top up their retirement fund. It’s for sale at £1.395m with Foxtons on 020 7579 2929.
“He drew inspiration from the area when writing subsequent Hitchhiker books including taking the name of local estate agent Hotblack Desiato for a character's name”
102 23/03/2017 15:15
PROPERTY / STAR HOMES
TEESDALE, SURREY £3M
HITCHHIKING HOME
D
ouglas Adams is best known as the author of world-wide publishing phenomenon The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy which was firstly a radio play then later five bestselling books, a TV series, play and, in 2005, a Hollywood film. He was also a script writer and editor for Doctor Who, appeared in and wrote for several Monty Python TV shows, worked as a radio producer, penned a travel book and appeared on stage with Pink Floyd. He went on to sell 15 million copies of his Hitchhiker books, the early proceeds of which he used to buy this house on Duncan Terrace in Islington during the late 1980s. He drew inspiration from the area when writing subsequent Hitchhiker books. Adams’ house, which includes two large reception rooms, four double bedrooms and a small rear garden, is for sale at £5.95m with Savills (020 7226 1313).
HODGSON’S LONDON FLAT
Y CHELSEA HARBOUR £2.95M
ou’ve got to have sympathy for former England manager Roy Hodgson, whatever your thoughts on England’s ignominious defeat at the hands of Iceland during Euro 2016. Until he embraced the poisoned chalice of the England team he had enjoyed a stellar international career as a manager. This included spells at clubs in Sweden, Switzerland, Italy, London, and Liverpool before joining England in 2012, after which it is agreed it generally all went wrong. Hodgson has said he’s ready to make a return to management, but probably not in London if this two-bedroom apartment in Chelsea Harbour is anything to go by. The 69-year-old is selling the property for £2.95 million. More information from Knight Frank on 020 3597 7670 or www.knightfrank. co.uk.
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GOLDFINGER’S SURREY ADDRESS
E
rno Goldfinger was a controversial architect whose name was borrowed by author Ian Fleming for his villain in the seventh and eponymous James Bond spy novel. The book was published in 1959 and later turned into the film. It was reported that the author used Goldfinger’s name in anger following a planning dispute over the architect’s modernist house in Hampstead. He left a small but rich architectural legacy behind him when he died in 1987. Including several apartment blocks, government ministry buildings, schools and a clutch of houses. One of them, a Grade II listed villa called Teesdale in Surrey, is currently for sale and is the only post-war private house designed by Goldfinger in its original condition. It’s for sale with agent Savills (01344 626 162) at £3 million.
absolutely.london
23/03/2017 15:15
Harrods Estates brings
LONDON property to the world
• LONDON RESIDENTIAL SALES • LONDON RESIDENTIAL LETTINGS • ACQUISITIONS • NEW DEVELOPMENTS • ASSET MANAGEMENT • PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
KNIGHTSBRIDGE OFFICE: 82 BROMPTON ROAD LONDON SW3 1ER T: 020 7225 6506 MAYFAIR OFFICE: 61 PARK LANE LONDON W1K 1QF T: 020 7409 9001 CHELSEA OFFICE: 58 FULHAM ROAD LONDON SW3 6HH T: 020 7225 6700 KENSINGTON OFFICE: 48-50 KENSINGTON CHURCH STREET LONDON W8 4DG T: 020 3650 4600
HARRODSESTATES.COM @HarrodsEstates
3ads.indd 1 HARRODS.indd 5091 HE Absolute1
20/02/2017 16:03 14:00 27/09/2016 10:46 22/09/2015 22/07/2015 14:41
A SPACIOUS AND MODERN THREE DOUBLE BEDROOM DUPLEX RAVENSBOURNE APARTMENTS, FULHAM RIVERSIDE, SW6 • 1,387sq ft internal living space • Secured parking • Easterly river views • Concierge service • Communal gardens • EPC rating B Guide Price: £1,625,000
Chelsea Office: 020 7225 5752 francis.burca@harrodsestates.com
Leasehold: Approximately 995 years
HARRODSESTATES.COM
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FIVE-BEDROOM DUPLEX PENTHOUSE IN A PREMIER NOTTING HILL ADDRESS PRINCE EDWARD MANSIONS, NOTTING HILL W2 • En suite master/dressing room • Resident 24hr porter • Bespoke kitchen/dining room • 2,739sq ft / 254.5sq m • Historic building • EPC rating C Guide price: £6,550,000
020 3650 4600 nicholas.shaw@harrodsestates.com
Tenure: Share of Freehold
HARRODSESTATES.COM
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A BEAUTIFULLY REFURBISHED ONE-BEDROOM APARTMENT THURLOE PLACE, KNIGHTSBRIDGE SW7 • Approx. 544sq ft / 50.54sq m • Separate study room • Double aspect reception room • Refurbished to a high spec • Luxurious master bedroom • EPC rating D Guide Price: £1,595,000
Knightsbridge Office: 0207 225 6508 shaun.drummond@harrodsestates.com
Tenure: Share of Freehold
HARRODSESTATES.COM
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Internationally respected, locally renowned
Rickman
A refreshing yet professional approach to selling or renting your home
Kensington Court Place, Kensington, W8 £1,750 pw • Three bedrooms • Two reception rooms • Two bathrooms
• Modernised & elegant • Sunny courtyard • Breakfast area
Queen’s Gate, South Kensington, London, SW7 • Two/three beds • One/two receptions • Three shower rooms
£1,350,000 Share of Freehold • Small patio • Storage vaults • EPC Rating D
• Lower ground floor • Needing work • Good ceiling heights
21 Earls Court Road, London, W8 6EB info@rickmanproperties.com I rickmanproperties.com *administration fees apply
RICKMAN_USE.indd 2
• Fully fitted kitchen • Close to Hyde Park • EPC Rating D
Follow Rickman Properties
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020 7937 9777 23/03/2017 11:44
For you, the family (and the downward facing dog). A collection of beautifully finished 4 and 5 bedroom family homes with an additional mews studio space (to finally create that personal yoga sanctuary). Prices from £2,150,000
Developer
REGISTER YOUR INTEREST
Sales Agents
A S H C H U R C H V I L L A S .C O M 020 3504 5534
ASHCHURCH.indd 1
@ASHCHURCHVILLAS
23/03/2017 11:41
ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES
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PROPERTY / PROFILE RICKMAN PROPERTIES
I N T H E I R OW N WO R D S
Kieran Ryan The Managing Director discusses the importance of independent agencies and projects a positive future for the Royal Borough Photography by R E B E C C A N O O NA N
I
found it quite ironic that Absolutely have asked me to write this months’ ‘In Their Own Words’ article, as I fast approach a landmark age which I am reluctant to reveal. I thought at first I should look back and talk about my career retrospectively however, I decided it might be better to project forward instead. I have seen the industry change more rapidly over the last five years than I have done in all my thirty years as an estate agent. The events that really leap out at me are the invention of so called ‘online agents’, corporate agents opening on every street corner, the banning of agents’ boards and of course the dreaded increase in SDLT to name but a few, yet there are still no restrictions on anyone opening an estate agency and very little regulation of the industry as a whole. Rickman Properties was founded in 2001, when I simultaneously sold another agency business with offices in west London, but felt The Royal Borough was the place I wanted to be. The attraction of such diversified, iconic London architecture and the kind of clientele that inhabit the area made me want to work in Kensington and Chelsea and I have never regretted it. The current climate in the industry means that barely a week goes by without it being questioned whether inde-
pendent estate agents have a future in this competitive market place, and immediately the word ‘yes’ comes to my mind, without a shadow of doubt. Independence is very much in demand as a small but powerful, professional approach is welcome by the vendor, landlord, purchaser and tenant alike. My great belief is that professionalism always prevails and I feel this has been proven by the longevity of the brand. I knew my career was going to be in the property industry for the long term so I never had the ‘quick buck’ approach to the business, appreciating the need to build and maintain a respectable reputation. I feel this has been proven with the Rickman Properties brand and I make sure that every member of staff employed are well aware of that - There are no short cuts to success! In addition, Rickman Properties is the only nominated representative of the Guild of Property professionals in Kensington, which is an organisation purely for independent estate agents with over 600 members in the U.K. We have found that they not only provide excellent marketing tools but also encourage dialogue amongst different agents. At the end of the day, after weathering many years of industry changes, self-motivation is still the essential ingredient. I get into the office early in the morning and read the industry news bulletins, as contradictory as they may
“INDEPENDENCE IS VERY MUCH IN DEMAND AS A SMALL BUT POWERFUL, PROFESSIONAL APPROACH IS WELCOME” be. I still have the passion for the business, although I would be lying if I said the last two years had not been particularly challenging. Central London has been hit badly with sales transactions at an incredible low, rentals have been much better as many vendors have converted to landlords in reaction to certain changes, but we are seeing interest returning from the discerning purchaser with applicant levels on the up. Regarding the rental sector in Kensington, we are seeing landlords adapt by accepting discounted offers but the calibre of applicant still remains high. RBKC shows a continuing level of stability overall because it will always make sense as a living solution for professionals, students and families alike. u
RICKMAN PROPERTIES • 020 7937 9777 • rickmanproperties.com
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absolutely.london
23/03/2017 15:18
PROPERTY / FEATURE Why London l a n d l o r d s l ov e A i r b n b by N I G E L L E W I S
Airbnb has attracted both celebrities and controversy during its nine-year life. And now traditional landlords in London are using it too
Y
ou may recall the birth of Airbnb. In 2013 the relatively little-known home sharing website’s fame soared after it was revealed that actor Ashton Kutcher had used it for a year to find homes to live in after his divorce from Demi Moore. His sofa surfing came to light after the No-Strings Attached star revealed he was to invest in the company, which to seasoned start-up watchers wasn’t a surprise; he’s also invested in Skype, Foursquare and Fab.com. That was four years ago, and now Airbnb is gaining not fame, but notoriety. Several cities have attempted, and sometimes succeeded in preventing home owners from renting their properties out via Airbnb, after the website was blamed for a shortage of traditional rented property in the US, Europe and beyond. The maths involved illustrate why. On average Airbnb landlords earn £106 a day from their rentals for a two-bedroom apartment, or £2,226 a month based on a 70% occupancy, says letting agent Portico, which recently launched a premium Airbnb management service. The company also says that it expects to achieve 80% occupancy
for some properties, and that landlords can expect to start earning within a week of listing on the site. Portico says Airbnb day rates in London range from £65 in Bexley to £224 in Westminster, but crucially – and here’s why some worry that Airbnb is sucking a lot of property out of the London rental market – the average rental figure of £2,226 is £449 more than the average price paid by traditional, longer-term tenants. The protests went global and several cities, including New York, Paris, Barcelona, Berlin, Amsterdam as well as London have begun to either levy a tourist tax on Airbnb landlords or restrict who can rent out their homes via the site. For example, in San Francisco, you can only rent out your home via Airbnb if you’re a
full-time resident of the city. In Santa Monica, landlords must live in the house to rent it out. Then Airbnb made its own move late last year, restricting all its landlords from renting out properties for more than 90 days. This has gone some way to placate those think the company is helping reduce the supply of affordable housing in urban areas. The scale of the Airbnb operation in London is surprisingly large. There are just over 48,000 Airbnb hosts in the capital and the City of Westminster harbours the most at 5,631 followed by Tower Hamlets (5,076) and Hackney (3,572). But it’s not all about central London. Portico says some outer suburbs also have a lot of Airbnb hosts including Brent, mainly because it has Wembley Stadium within it; Newham (the Excel Centre) and Merton (Wimbledon). “Londoners in their thousands are turning to Airbnb to generate extra income,” says Robert Nichols, managing director of Portico. “And despite the 90-day limit, even seasoned landlords are coming round to the fact that a combination of Airbnb and traditional tenancy will maximise their return on investment. “If your property becomes vacant in the quieter months, we recommend listing your property on Airbnb and synchronising your tenancy to start a long-term let in the summer or late summer when demand from tenants and therefore prices are highest. “Or, if your property is already on the market, why not earn on Airbnb until you let or sell it? Every day it’s sitting vacant is potentially losing you money, so it really does pay to get on board with Airbnb in short-term.”◆ More information from portico.com/airbnb
“On average Airbnb landlords earn £106 a day from their rentals for a two-bedroom apartment, or £2,226 a month based on 70% occupancy” ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES
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Riverside living at its best
Flats to rent at Fulham Reach starting at £550 per week
1 Beds from £550 pw
n 1, 2, 3 Beds & Penthouses to Rent n Pool, Gym, 24hr Concierge, Air-conditioning n 3 mins from Hammersmith Tube & all amenities
2 Beds from £750 pw
020 8528 4110 or email fr@brlets.co.uk or visit www.brlets.co.uk Call us now on
Unit C, Distillery Wharf, Chancellors Road, London W6 9GX London branches: Canary Wharf | City | Colindale | Ealing | Fulham Greenwich | Hammersmith | Hampstead | Highgate | Hyde Park Kensington | Kew | Knightsbridge | Nine Elms | Surrey Quays | Wapping International: Hong Kong | India | Malaysia | Singapore
Additional charges apply: Tenancy Agreement, Credit Check & Inventory Report. For details visit www.brlets.co.uk/tenantinfo
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On-site letttings office at Fulham Reach
22/03/2017 13:12
West Kensington
ÂŁ1,100 pw Furnished
2 Bedrooms | Reception | 2 Bathrooms | Apartment 24hr Concierge | Lift | Parking | EPC - B Kensington 020 3302 5674
kens@brlets.co.uk
Sixteen branches open six days a week Monday - Saturday Canary Wharf | City | Colindale | Ealing | Fulham | Greenwich | Hammersmith | Hampstead Highgate | Hyde Park | Kensington | Kew | Knightsbridge | Nine Elms | Surrey Quays | Wapping Additional charges apply: Tenancy Agreement, Credit Check & Inventory Report. For details visit www.brlets.co.uk/tenantinfo
• BR_NH_NEWEST.indd 2
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To arrange a viewing or for more information call
020 7319 9783
Kensington
£415 pw Furnished
London’s Letting Agency
info@brlets.co.uk www.brlets.co.uk
Fitzrovia
£675 pw Furnished
1 Bedroom | Reception | 1 Bathroom | Apartment Garden Square | Close to Tube & Amenities | EPC - D
Studio Apartment/ Living Space | 1 Bathroom | Apartment Gym | Close to Tube & Amenities | EPC - B
Kensington 020 3302 5674
Hyde Park 020 3417 3703
Imperial Wharf
kens@brlets.co.uk
£700 pw Furnished
Knightsbridge
hyde@brlets.co.uk
£725 pw Furnished
2 Bedrooms | Reception | 2 Bathrooms | Apartment 24hr Concierge | Gym | Close to Tube | EPC - B
2 Bedrooms | Reception | 2 Bathrooms | Apartment Parking | 24hr Concierge | Gym | Pool | EPC - B
Imperial Wharf 020 3503 0015
Knightsbridge 020 3302 7174
iw@brlets.co.uk
knight@brlets.co.uk
Hong Kong | India | Malaysia | Singapore
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Fulham Reach
£1,800 pw Furnished
3 Bedrooms | Reception | 3 Bathrooms | Apartment 24hr Concierge | Gym | Pool | Spa | EPC - B Hammersmith 020 8528 4110
fr@brlets.co.uk
Sixteen branches open six days a week Monday - Saturday Canary Wharf | City | Colindale | Ealing | Fulham | Greenwich | Hammersmith | Hampstead Highgate | Hyde Park | Kensington | Kew | Knightsbridge | Nine Elms | Surrey Quays | Wapping Additional charges apply: Tenancy Agreement, Credit Check & Inventory Report. For details visit www.brlets.co.uk/tenantinfo
• BR_NH_NEWEST.indd 4
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To arrange a viewing or for more information call
020 7319 9783
Knightsbridge
£495 pw Furnished
London’s Letting Agency
info@brlets.co.uk www.brlets.co.uk
Kensington
£620 pw Unfurnished
1 Bedroom | Reception | 1 Bathroom | Apartment Porter | Close to Tube | EPC - D | Sole Agent Knightsbridge 020 3302 7174 knight@brlets.co.uk
1 Bedroom | Reception | 1 Bathroom | Apartment 24hr Concierge | Close to Tube | EPC – B Kensington 020 3302 5674 kens@brlets.co.uk
Imperial Wharf
Paddington
£675 pw Furnished
£750 pw Unfurnished
2 Bedrooms | Reception | 2 Bathrooms | Apartment 24hr Concierge | Gym | Parking | Close to Tube | EPC - C
2 Bedrooms | Reception | 2 Bathrooms | Apartment 24hr Concierge | Lift | Parking | Close to Tube | EPC - B
Fulham 020 3503 0015
Hyde Park 020 3417 3703
iw@brlets.co.uk
hyde@brlets.co.uk
Hong Kong | India | Malaysia | Singapore
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Imperial Wharf
London SW6 Apartments to rent from £400 per week
n Premier riverside development adjacent to Chelsea Harbour n Vibrant location; shops, bars, gym and restaurants on your doorstep n Own train station plus water taxi service to the City (20 mins)
Manhattan Studios from £400 per week
2 Bed Apartments from £550 per week
Call us now on 020
3503 0015 or email iw@brlets.co.uk or visit www.brlets.co.uk 15 The Boulevard, Imperial Wharf, London, SW6 2UB London branches: Canary Wharf | City | Colindale | Ealing | Fulham Greenwich | Hammersmith | Hampstead | Highgate | Hyde Park Kensington | Kew | Knightsbridge | Nine Elms | Surrey Quays | Wapping International: Hong Kong | India | Malaysia | Singapore
Additional charges apply: Tenancy Agreement, Credit Check & Inventory Report. For details visit www.brlets.co.uk/tenantinfo
• BR_NH_NEWEST.indd 6
Convenient on-site office at 15 The Boulevard, Imperial Wharf (next to the Karen Hardy Dance studio)
22/03/2017 13:13
INTERVIEW
Who builds London? Meet Russell Bond, the man responsible for the huge Aldgate Place development under construction on the Commercial Road in E1
Y
ou know something unusual is being built when the marketing suite for a development is more upmarket than most five-star hotels. This is the case at Barratt London’s Aldgate Place development which when finished will be a mixed-use, six-building community of apartments, offices, shops and a hotel on the junction of Whitechapel Road and Commercial Road. It’s hard not to miss when you step out of Aldgate East tube station. In the reception, a gaggle of young and tightly-tailored women who look after the reception give the place a British Airways gold-card travellers lounge feel, while the marketing suite on the fifth floor – which the women whisk you up to via a lift straight out of a Gucci shoot – is a cross between an Apple Store and a handbag boutique. In charge of delivering the level of luxury and marble-lined quality promised by the marketing effort is Russell Bond, who has the nail-bitingly responsible job of ensuring the scheme sticks to its £250m budget. As well as a 150-bedroom hotel and offices plus ground-level shops, restaurants and cafés, his team of 500 builders are also constructing 463 homes ranging from studios to fourbedroom apartments. He must also keep it green – part of the planning approval granted in 2013 is that 25% of all materials on the site must be recycled. We nailed down Russel to an interview to find out what it takes to manage such a huge project.
school so a combination of the two things led me towards construction engineering. I completed a degree in construction engineering management and then spent 15 years building hospitals, offices and shops before going out to work in Dubai for a while. When I came back from there I worked on the Athletes’ Village within the Olympic Park. Then five years ago, I joined Barratt and here I am now. Are high buildings like Aldgate East a bigger challenge? What’s more of a challenge here is the site’s location. We are surrounded by tube lines as well as a Red Route that runs all around the site plus we’ve only got one entrance. The site is also riddled with underground services that had to be diverted before we could start building. But because we’re working at height, safety is really the No.1 concern for me.
What’s it like running a site like this? I feel like it’s a huge train running at full speed and I’m the driver. At any one time, I’ve got 30 Barratt staff on site plus a further 13 team site managers and in total 500 people working here. How long will you be working here? Five years. This project started in September 2013, started the first piling in March 2014 and had our first completions in June 2016 on the first block, while the second phase will finish in March 2018. What are the key skill sets you need? My major skill is to lead the construction teams and the site managers. It's all about planning and organisation including monitoring and reviewing what the workers and teams are doing. I am responsible for budgets and schedules, but one of my main concerns day-to-day is managing people. The other two skills you need are to see the bigger picture while also paying attention to the small details. More information Apartments for sale at Aldgate Place start at £695,000. Each property comes with a free all-zones travel card for three years. Search online for Barratt Aldgate Place for more information or call 0844 358 3270. u
What qualifies you to do the job? Well, my dad was an accountant so he told me to get a job that was outside and not stuck in an office. I excelled at everything technical at
119 Chis_April17_NIGEL_INTERVIEW.indd 119
“It's all about planning and organisation including monitoring and reviewing what the workers and teams are doing”
absolutely.london
23/03/2017 15:22
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THE HOME OF REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT Cityscape Abu Dhabi, the capital’s largest and most influential property exhibition is back. Bringing together investors, developers, government officials and real estate professionals, there is no better place to find investment opportunities and new business partners. With hundreds of developments from Abu Dhabi and overseas being showcased, Cityscape Abu Dhabi 2017 is the home of real estate investment.
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23/03/2017 11:54
ARE YOU GETTING THE CUSTOMER SERVICE YOU DESERVE? The ESTAS is the largest independent customer service awards scheme for estate agents, mortgage brokers and conveyancers in the UK property industry. Companies who sign up to The ESTAS are committed to giving YOU the best possible service they can. So if you’re searching for an estate or letting agent, conveyancer or mortgage broker look out for the official ESTAS logo to give you peace of mind and the service you deserve. Whatever your experience, you’ll have the chance to give your feedback, helping us recognise firms that provide excellent customer service throughout the home moving process. To find out more visit our website
theestas.com
Because Service Matters ESTA.indd 0048 ESTAS1Absolutely Magazine Ad Oct 2016 AW.indd 1
02/11/2016 12:42 10:35 19/10/2016
Think service. Think success. Think KFH.
With a reputation spanning 40 years, we’ve helped hundreds of thousands of people discover their dream home, relocate or establish a property portfolio. From managing viewings to closing the deal, we do all the hard work for you – and you only pay once we’ve successfully sold or let your property. Take advantage of the busy spring market:
kfh.co.uk/valuation
KFH.indd 1 Advert Master.indd 1 Spring_Brand
23/03/2017 14:21 11:43 02/03/2017
Cromwell Crescent, Earls Court, SW5 Guide price £1,850,000 Earls Court 020 7740 2020 earlscourt.sales@kfh.co.uk
KFH.indd 04.17 KFH 2 Central.indd 2
A magnificent lateral mansion flat of impressive proportions, flooded with natural light and offering generous living accommodation extending to 1,410 sq ft, including two double bedrooms. Warwick Mansions is ideally located close to the many amenities of Kensington High Street and Earls Court, including a Tesco superstore and Earls Court underground station, as well as the green open spaces of Holland Park.
• • • • • • • •
Red brick mansion block Two double bedrooms Two bathrooms High ceilings Extensive bespoke storage Close to the tube Share of freehold EPC rating D
23/03/2017 15:33 11:43 20/03/2017
North End Road, Fulham, SW6 Guide price £775,000
A two bedroom, two bathroom penthouse flat with a private terrace boasting a high contemporary finish with luxurious fittings in a stunning new development with panoramic views.
Fulham and Chelsea 020 7731 0051 fulham.sales@kfh.co.uk
The property is centrally situated and is ideally located for the extensive shopping, leisure and transport amenities of Fulham Broadway including the underground station, Whole Foods Market, Waitrose and Marks & Spencer.
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• • • • • • • • •
Two bedrooms Penthouse Two bathrooms Siemens appliances New development TV and built in speakers Private terrace Leasehold EPC rating B
23/03/2017 15:33 11:43 20/03/2017
Clarendon Road, Holland Park, W11 £4,745 pcm / £1,095 pw Holland Park 020 3542 2120 hollandpark.lettings@kfh.co.uk
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Arranged over five floors, this incredible four bedroom house incorporates a mezzanine level which overlooks the contemporary kitchen and dining area below. Angled skylights and tall French windows illuminate the living space, adding to the sense of volume and scope of the house. Located moments from Clarendon Cross, Clarendon Road is situated in lively Notting Hill, close to Holland Park Avenue and all the amenities of Ladbroke Grove.
• • • • • • • •
Four bedroom house Three bathrooms Stylishly decorated Private decking Access to communal gardens Off street parking Furnished EPC rating D
£210 tenancy agreement fee per property. Other fees apply, visit kfh.co.uk/lettingsfees
23/03/2017 15:34 11:43 20/03/2017
Coleherne Road, Chelsea, SW10 £2,816 pcm / £650 pw Earls Court 020 7740 2025 earlscourt.lettings@kfh.co.uk
Well presented and modern two double bedroom flat arranged over the raised ground floor of this impressive period conversion. The property boasts a bright living room at the front with a large gas fireplace, period features including double height ceilings, hard wood flooring and a large bay window,
• • • • • •
Two double bedrooms Two shower rooms Raised ground floor conversion Hard wood flooring throughout Furnished EPC rating C
Ideally located on a quiet residential road, moments from both Earls Court and West Brompton stations. £210 tenancy agreement fee per property. Other fees apply, visit kfh.co.uk/lettingsfees
KFH.indd 04.17 KFH 5 Central.indd 5
23/03/2017 15:34 11:43 20/03/2017
Lancaster Gate, Bayswater, W2 £5,200 pcm / £1,200 pw Bayswater 020 7563 5090 bayswater.lettings@kfh.co.uk
This beautifully presented four double bedroom apartment is located on the top floor with a lift. This lovely portered block is finished to a very high specification overlooking Hyde Park and moments away from Lancaster Gate.
• • • • • • • • •
Four double bedrooms Three bathrooms Large reception Modern granite kitchen Marble bathroom Lift access Portered building Ideally located close to Hyde Park Furnished
£210 tenancy agreement fee per property. Other fees apply, visit kfh.co.uk/lettingsfees
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23/03/2017 15:34 11:43 20/03/2017
LIVING THE
DREAM The most luxuriously appointed properties on the market
1
EGERTON GARDENS
SW 3 , £ 6,2 50,00 0
A
BEDFORD GARDENS W8, £4 ,6 5 0,000
T
n immaculate three-bedroom garden maisonette extending to over 2,000 sq ft. The property has been refurbished and remodelled to a very high specification and provides an elegant reception room and impressive open plan kitchen/ dining room leading onto the communal gardens. The layout of bedrooms is extremely well balanced, with each room served by bathroom or shower room. u
his superb grade II listed, five bedroom, detached freehold house, located on one of Kensington’s best addresses. The house is arranged over four floors, the master bedroom occupies the first floor complete with a separate terrace. The second floor has three further bedrooms, on the lower ground floor there is a very spacious kitchen, sitting room, sauna and one further bedroom.u
STRUTT & PARKER Chelsea, 0207 225 3866 struttandparker.com
HARRODS ESTATES Kensington, 020 3650 4602; harrodsestates.com 1
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PROPERTY / NEW TO THE MARKET
CHELSEA MANOR STREET SW 3 , £9 9 9, 5 0 0
T
his beautifully refurbished and well-proportioned one bedroom flat is situated on the ground floor of a highly regarded mansion block, just a stone’s throw from the Kings Road. The exceptionally bright apartment consists of a reception room, fully equipped kitchen, bathroom and a large bedroom. The property would make an ideal home, pied a terre or rental investment. u PASTOR REAL ESTATE London, 020 3867 7796; pastor-realestate.com
ACADEMY GARDENS
DISTILLERY WHARF W 6 , £ 73 0
S
Pe r We e k
pacious and contemporary, this two-bedroom apartment is situated at a riverside development in Hammersmith. Set on the third floor, this stylish apartment comprises a spacious open-plan reception area with fitted kitchen. Floor-to-ceiling windows afford plenty of natural light and lead out to a private balcony. u BENHAM & REEVES RESIDENTIAL LETTINGS Hammersmith, 020 8600 0960; brlets.co.uk
W 8 , £ 1 2 ,9 5 0,0 0 0
T
his is a beautiful apartment in the heart of the Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea. Sophisticated and elegant, this 6 bedroom apartment with its high ceilings and fantastic views, is set over 5,369 sq ft. Academy Gardens is an envious address and this apartment is perfect for entertaining. With plenty of outside space and natural light, this apartment has everything. u
THE PROPERTY WOULD MAKE AN IDEAL HOME, PIED A TERRE OR RENTAL INVESTMENT
BEAUCHAMP ESTATES London, 020 7499 7722; beauchamp.com
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absolutely.london
23/03/2017 15:40
Lettings 020 7751 5100 www.farrar.co.uk
DRAYTON GARDENS, LONDON, SW10 A beautiful and very homely two double bedroom flat in the heart of Chelsea. The apartment is in a beautiful red brick building with a porter and enjoys a large open plan kitchen and reception area with very stylish furniture. The master bedroom benefits from good storage and boasts a contemporary shower room with twin basis. The flat further benefits from wood floors throughout and is in immaculate condition. Well located within walking distance to Gloucester Road and South Kensington Tube. EPC Rating: C. FURNISHED
£595
per week*
*Tenants are advised when renting a property the advertised rent does not include council tax, water or utility charges. The administration fees are £175 (inc. VAT) and referencing charges of £40 per Tenant/Guarantor. The inventory check in cost will vary but should not exceed £150 and a 6-8 week deposit is required.
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GROVE COURT, LONDON, SW10 An elegant and spacious lateral apartment on the 2nd floor (with lift) of this mansion building close to all the amenities on the Fulham Road and South Kensington. The property boasts an amazing double reception with high ceilings in addition to an eat-in kitchen, separate utility room and flexible bedroom accommodation (4-5 bedrooms) totalling approximately 2159 sq ft. The spacious entrance hall and double reception room have been fitted with light oak wood floors and both bathrooms have been completely refurbished with contemporary fixtures and fittings. EPC Rating: D UNFURNISHED
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£1,950
per week*
09/03/2017 15:26
10 YEOMANS ROW, KNIGHTSBRIDGE, LONDON SW3 2AH
WEDDINGCLUB.indd 1
+44 20 7581 9540
INFO@THEWEDDING-CLUB.CO.UK
WWW.THEWEDDING-CLUB.CO.UK
24/02/2017 16:08