Absolutely Chiswick : West : Richmond April 2018

CHISWICK

ABSOLUTELY Richmond Chiswick West APRIL 2018 / £3.95

GREEN GROCERS

Class

ACT

Sustainable food shopping

APRI L 2018

GET CREATIVE AT PETERSHAM NURSERIES

Drink

UP

OPTICAL ILLUSION Glasses never looked so stylish

Join the

GIN MASTERCLASSES IN THE CAPITAL

ZEST.LONDON

DOTS POLK A DOTS GET GL AMOROUS

ST YLISH / INTELLIGENT / ELEGANT West_April18_Cover.indd 2

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03/08/2016 14:53

The heart wants what the heart wants.

Discover countryside homes with south facing gardens using keyword search.

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SUDBROOK GARDENS, PETERSHAM An enviably secluded and substantial five-bedroom detached family home occupying a spacious corner plot, tucked away in one of Petersham’s most desirable locations. Laterally configured over two floors and boasting lots of natural light throughout; scope to extend (subject to obtaining planning consents), gated gravel drive with off street parking for several cars; a wonderful walled garden and swimming pool and a detached coach-house in the grounds. EPC = E.

ASKING PRICE

£3,850,000

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Chiswick Hammersmith West Kensington Fulham Chelsea

Battersea Clapham Putney Barnes Richmond

Kew Sheen Twickenham Teddington Kingston

featherstoneleigh.co.uk

THE STAR AND GARTER, RICHMOND HILL A beautiful and well-proportioned two double bedroom second floor apartment boasting a Living/Dining room with a double aspect offering stunning views towards London and Richmond Park. The apartment has been finished to an extremely high standard with underfloor heating; comfort cooling air-conditioning; two luxury marble bathrooms; Italian bespoke kitchen and an allocated parking space. EPC = E.

ASKING PRICE

ÂŁ1,600,000

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UPGR ADE TO PERFECTION Take your home entertainment to the next level. Our new webOS Smart TV combines ultra-sharp OLED 4K images and the world’s most powerful TV sound with a built-in audio system for wireless music and radio streaming. BeoVision Eclipse is available in 55 and 65 inches.

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ABSOLUTELY

Contents APRIL 2018

106 16

C U LT U R E ABSOLUTELY LOVES

10 things we’re coveting this month

40 62

55 NEW SCENTS Spring fragrances to love

20 AGENDA

FOOD & DRINK 62 KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL

28 CLASS ACT

72

FA S H I O N 32 FASHION CONFIDENTIAL

INTERIORS 80 INTERIOR INSPIRATIONS

Diary dates for April

News from the industry

Get green-fingered at Petersham Nurseries

This month’s hottest trend updates and brands to know

35 PURPLE REIGN

Embrace Pantone's Colour of the Year

DRINK UP

Gin masterclasses in the capital

News and views

76

CHANGING PLACES

Explore Yoko Kloeden’s Richmond home

47 A BUG'S LIFE

T R AV E L 106 BEST OF BOTH

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y 52 BEAUTY CONFIDENTIAL

PROPERTY 126 LIVING THE DREAM

Insectile-inspired styles

The month’s best beauty buys

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N The online guide to inspirational London living that helps you stay one step ahead of the crowd and gives you the chance to win exclusive prizes.

Enjoy city and sun in Morocco

ON THE COVER SUZANNAH ODETTE POLKA DOT JUMPSUIT £1,050 suzannah.com

The most luxurious London properties A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

West_March_.indd 13

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HELPING NATURE LOOK STYLISH

EDITOR IN CHIEF PENDLE HARTE DIGITAL EDITOR HELEN BROWN

• 18 Years of experience • Turnkey Solutions • Complete Design and build service • Post build maintenance • Offices in London and Cape Town

FASHION & BEAUTY WRITER JOY MONTGOMERY LIFESTYLE WRITER MIRIAM CAREY EDUCATION EDITOR AMANDA CONSTANCE GROUP SALES DIRECTOR CRAIG DAVIES MAGAZINE MANAGER ROLLO DENNISON ACCOUNT MANAGER ANABELA KOLECI ART DIRECTOR PHIL COUZENS

Patrick Anhaeusser

SENIOR DESIGNER PAWEL KUBA

07894 985 775

MID-WEIGHT DESIGNER REBECCA NOONAN

patrick@urbanxteriors.com

DESIGNER CATHERINE PERKINS

www.urbanxteriors.com

PRODUCTION MANAGER CHRIS COUCHMAN MARKETING MANAGER ANGIE KOLECI FINANCIAL DIRECTOR JERRIE KOLECI CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER ALEXANDRA HVID DIRECTOR JAMES FUSCHILLO DIRECTOR ALEXANDRA HUNTER MANAGING DIRECTOR SHERIF SHALTOUT PA TO DIRECTORS EVA LEHOCZKY For editorial enquiries please email: pendle@zest-media.com For advertising enquiries please call 020 3397 8706 or email: craig@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

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Editor’s

LETTER ABSOLUTELY’S favourite outdoor escapes in London...

1

N

o amount of April showers can dampen our optimism for this issue, which is brimming with colourful fashion, local characters and nothing but blue skies and white sands in our travel section.

We’re looking at the new season palette and discovering that it’s goodbye millennial pink and hello to the lilac hour. An update on last year’s blush tones, lilac is the colour of spring.

In our shopping edit on page 35, we’ve given the hue a much-needed modern update - you’ll want to be clad head to toe before you know.

In our culture section we take a stroll around Petersham Nurseries to explore the rich offering of their horticultural team. In a series of interactive talks and masterclasses, they’re imparting their skills and demonstrating breathtaking floral and horticultural creativity, so locals can take a little piece of Petersham home with them. As the sun begins to appear from behind the clouds, our travel section will certainly have you wishing for summer with not one, but two exotic features.

You’ll discover there is more to Morocco than Marrakesh on page 106, and on page 112 we show you why Jamaica’s luxury Half Moon Resort is one to have on your radar. All this, plus local food reviews, kids content and a round up of what’s on in London this month. I hope you enjoy the issue.

KEW GARDENS

Whether you fancy walking along the amazing tree top balcony, sunbathing on the grass or just sitting under a tree with a cheeky glass of Pimms, you can’t beat Kew Gardens for a lovely day out in London.

JOY MONTGOMERY EDITOR

GEORGIE RUTHERFORD EDITORIAL INTERN

ST JAMES’ PARK

Nothing beats an early morning run around St James’ Park when no-one is around, apart from the park’s famous residents, the pelicans. Although it may not have Hyde Park’s Kensington Palace or Regent Park's Zoo, St. James’ offers snappable views of Buckingham Palace, relaxing walks and wildlife.

HELEN BROWN ARTS & CULTURE WRITER

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HAMPSTEAD HEATH

Hampstead Heath is my ultimate city escape. Moments from the high street’s pretty cafes and historic facades you discover gorgeous grassy fields, open air swimming ponds and dense forests. What more could you possibly want?

JOY MONTGOMERY FASHION & BEAUTY WRITER

4

5

HOLLAND PARK

My favourite outdoor space is Holland Park. The North Lawn, the forest area and the Japanese garden are all so different yet they’re each so Holland Park.

I love the peacocks, bronzes and exhibitions at the Ice House.

PENDLE HARTE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

3

REGENT’S CANAL

Regent’s Canal, although bustling with people, is one of my favourite place to see nature in London.

There is something about seeing ducks dipping, trees rustling and dragonflies buzzing that instantly calms the mind.

MIRIAM CAREY LIFESTYLE WRITER

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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19/03/2018 17:35

Wish LIST 10 things we Absolutely love COMPILED BY

H E L E N B R OW N

16

SUMMER STATEMENTS High street hero, Warehouse has hit the nail on the head for summer with a collection of clean lines, creative silhouettes and colour pops to suit the sunnier months. warehouse.co.uk

Master of Malt

The Cotswolds Single Malt Whisky is the fi rst whisky ever to hail from the area and uses 100% locally grown, floor-malted barley for a fi nish that is rich and fruity. £44.95; cotswoldsdistillery.com

BRIGHT THING

We’re obsessed with the embroidered design of this Anthropologie lamp for its ability to add effortless cool to any room. £118; anthropologie.com

K E E P E R OF K EYS Crafted from dreamily soft calf leather, this Aspinal of London keyring ticks all the boxes for an accessory that is both subtle and stylish. Here’s to never losing your keys again. £35; selfridges.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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ABSOLUTELY • LOVES

Creature Comforts

Give your scheme a playful twist with this stylised, screen-printed Cheetah cushion; perfect for adding a vibrant splash in a room of neutrals. £15; habitat.co.uk

COLOUR CLASH FRAME WOR K Taylor Morris, London's go-to eyewear brand for sophisticated sunnies, has hit the nail on the head with this design inspired by the pink sunsets of the British countryside. £180; taylormorriseyewear.com

Mixing clashing orange chevrons and stripes against navy and monochrome, Jigsaw has created a modernist’s dream with longline knits, trousers, maxis and a diagonal cut stripe dress. jigsaw-online.com

WH AT ’S COOK IN G? From individual starters to mini puddings, Le Creuset’s stoneware ramekins allow for perfect preparation and presentation.

Dinner parties have never been easier. £10 each; selfridges.com

TI M E TO SL I DE Diane von Furstenberg is at the top of our wishlist this summer with the addition of beachwear. We love these striped sandals, which will look chic paired with white denim. £175; net-a-porter.com

Compact Carries

Sophie Hulme has made a name for herself with her clean-lines and hardy structures. We’re taken with this clementine number for a pop of spring colour. £562; farfetch.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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KeVIN KAReN presents

AND

DA NCe LIVE TOUR 2018

Saturday 9 June Royal Festival Hall Saturday 16 June New Wimbledon Theatre

book at

kevinandkarenlive.com in association with Raymond Gubbay

10 July

11 July

the

GIPSY KINGS

ft. NICOLAS REYES & TONNINO BALIARDO

13 July

14 July

10 – 15 July 2018

kewthemusic.org Royal Botanic Gardens Raymond Gubbay

15 July

Jools Holland & His Rhythm & Blues Orchestra featuring Gilson Lavis

Special guest Marc Almond

“London’s hottest picnic concerts” Metro

and guest vocalists Ruby Turner, Louise Marshall and Rosie Mae.

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CULTURE

A Midsummer Night’s Dream 9-17 March THE J UDI DEN C H P LAY H OUSE

Shakespeare’s best-loved comedy is an iconic tale about love and the confusion it brings, suitably adapted by The Questors in an unmissable, family-friendly production.

12 Mattlock Lane, Ealing, W5; questors.org

Carla Evans

What’s On 20 • Theatre Round-Up 25 • Class Act: Petersham Nurseries 28 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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The Agenda LO N D O N ’S H OT T E ST H A P P E N I N G S

F E S T I VA L

Young Harts Writing Festival 2018 6-7 April LYRIC HAMMERS M IT H

Five young and emerging writers go head-to-head with five professional writers for the title of audience favourite in this innovative and exciting festival.

The play with the most votes wins, but here’s the twist: you won’t know the author of each play until the winner is revealed.

Lyric Square, W6; lyric.co.uk

T H E AT R E

Tess of the d’Urbervilles F RO M 27 A P R I L • TH E Q U E STORS THEATRE

Forced by her parents and by poverty to claim kinship with the wealthy d’Urbervilles, Tess Durbeyfield meets her ruin in the form of her predatory ‘cousin’ Alec. For Tess, in an unjust world where victims are blamed, only sorrow can follow as Hardy’s infamous tale is brought to the stage in this new and ambitious production.

12 Mattock Lane, W5; questors.org.uk

20

WORKSHOP

Spring Kokedama 17 April PETERSHAM N URSERIE S

In this unique workshop you will master the art of Kokedama, the growing Japanese trend that sees your houseplants liberated from their pots.

Using seasonal bulbs, you'll create three different variations on the bonsai-like plant to take home and enjoy.

Church Lane, Richmond, TW10; petershamnurseries.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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19/03/2018 13:21

CULTURE • TALKING TOPICS

EASTER

Easter at Hampton Court Until 15 April HAMPTON COURT PALACE

The Lindt Gold Bunny Hunt provides fun for all the ages, allowing families to explore the Hampton Court and its beautiful grounds. A host of chocolate-themed activities will also be taking place throughout the Easter holidays, where little ones can concoct their own Georgian style chocolate drink and decorate a ceramic chocolate cup to take home.

East Molesey, KT8; hrp.org.uk

Around Town SPORT

LONDON MARATHON 22 April VARIOUS LOCAT IONS

The London Marathon is the biggest single day fundraiser in the world and sees around 38,000 serious competitors, charity fun-runners and celebrities tackle the gruelling 26.2 mile route around the capital.

Whether you’ve secured your spot or cheering from the sidelines, it’s set to take the city by storm.

Various locations; virginmoneylondonmarathon.com

F E S T I VA L T H E AT R E

LONDON BOOK FAIR 10-12 April

O LYMP I A LON DON

Celebrating its 47th anniversary, The London Book Fair promises three action-packed days of knowledge, creativity and innovation. This annual event sees more then 25,000 publishing professionals arrive in London to learn, network and unite the city’s readers, writers and film fans alike in a major event for the cultural calendar.

Hammersmith Road, W14; olympia.london

EXHIBITION

MONET & ARCHITECTURE From 9 April

This Month’s Must See

THE N ATI ONAL GALLERY

EASTER WEEKEND OPENING 3 0 MA RC H • 2 APRIL • CHISWICK HOUSE & GARDEN S

E

njoy an Easter weekend fit for a royal at Chiswick House. This year, the seasonal celebrations are highlighting women who lived and worked in this Jacobean building, including Dorothy Boyle, Countess of Burlington and Lady of the Bedchamber to Queen Caroline.

With workshops and tea parties, this is fun for the whole family.

Burlington Lane, W4;

There’s never been a single exhibition looking at Monet’s career through buildings; until now. This is a new way of looking at his work and shows how he used architecture in both his most famous paintings and lesserknown works.

Trafalgar Square, WC2N; nationalgallery.org.uk

EXHIBITION

SOMEWHERE IN BETWEEN Ongoing WELLCOM E COLLEC T ION

Art, science and somewhere in between. The Wellcome Collection’s latest exhibition brings together the installations from four contemporary artists and the scientists they worked with to explore how artists can give shape to the human experience.

183 Euston Road, NW1; wellcomecollection.org

chiswickhouseandgardens.org.uk

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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CULTURE • ART & DESIGN

Tickled

PINK A look at David Shrigley’s characteristically deadpan new works for Sketch

By EVE HERBERT

22

“Shrigley is celebrated for his distinctive drawing style and works imbued with dry humour”

D

avid Shrigley has transformed the iconic Gallery at Sketch for the second time with a fresh new exhibition, part of a long-term programme of artist-led features at the venue. Replacing the 239 black and white drawings that have adorned the walls since 2014 are 91 colourful new works. The millennial pink gallery created by architect and designer India Mahdavi has garnered global attention since its inception, with Shrigley’s drawings setting a witty narrative in what has become one of the most instagrammed spaces in the world.

Shrigley is celebrated internationally for his distinctive drawing style and works imbued with dry humour, which cut to the point of human nature with their satirical comments on everyday situations and human interactions. Recurring themes pervade his storytelling, capturing childlike views of the world, the perspective of aliens and monsters or the compulsive habits of an eavesdropper shouting out loud. The new work continues to offer a side order of humour for diners, with oblique news headlines to digest along with their afternoon tea or dinner. David Shrigley said: “With dreary news often filling our headlines, I hope that diners will enjoy my take on the banality of everyday life.”

davidshrigley.com sketch.london

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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19/03/2018 13:32

Levante. The The Maserati Maserati of SUVs Levante.

SUVs Levante.

The Maserati ofof SUVs

Maserati Levante. Yours. From £599 per month* Maserati Levante. Yours. From £599 per month* Plus initial rental.Yours. From £599 per month* Maserati Levante.

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Official fuel consumption figures for the Maserati Levante Diesel MY18 in mpg (l/100km): Urban 34.4 (8.2), Extra Urban 42.8 (6.6), Official fuel consumption for the Maserati Levante Diesel MY18 in Levante mpg (l/100km): Urban (8.2), Extra Urban 42.8 Combined 39.2 (7.2). COfigures 189g/km *Personal Contract Hire.

Maserati Diesel Estate MY18 V6d34.4 5dr Auto (incl. metallic paint at £680(6.6), incl.

2 emissions: Official fuelrental consumption figures formonthly the Maserati Levante Diesel MY18 in mpg (l/100km): Urban 34.4 (8.2), Extra Urban 42.8 (6.6), VAT). Initial of (7.2). £6,589,CO followed by 47 rentals of*Personal £599 incl.Contract VAT & excl. maintenance.

Based on 8,000 miles p.a. Excess mileage apply.

Vehicles must be Combined 39.2 189g/km Hire.

Maserati Levante Diesel Estate MY18 V6d 5dr Auto charges (incl. metallic paint at £680 incl.

2 emissions: registered between 04/01/18 and torentals status.of Guarantees may Ts&Cs apply.

Leasys, 0WU. Wep.a. work with aAuto number ofmetallic creditors including Leasys.

Combined 39.2 CO emissions: 189g/km *Personal Contract Hire.maintenance.

Maserati Levante Diesel Estate MY18 V6d 5drmileage (incl. paint at £680 incl.

VAT).

Initial rental of (7.2). £6,589, followed by 47 Subject monthly £599 incl.

VATbe & required. excl.

Based on SL1 8,000 miles Excess charges apply.

Vehicles must be 2 31/03/18.

VAT).

Initial between rental of 04/01/18 £6,589, followed by 47 Subject monthlytorentals £599 incl. may VAT & maintenance.

Based on 8,000 milesWe p.a.work Excess mileage charges apply. Vehicles must be registered and 31/03/18. status.ofGuarantees beexcl. required.

Ts&Cs apply.

Leasys, SL1 0WU. with a number of creditors including Leasys. registered between 04/01/18 and 31/03/18. Subject to status. Guarantees may be required. Ts&Cs apply. Leasys, SL1 0WU. We work with a number of creditors including Leasys.

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08/03/2018 17:31

08/03/2018 17:31 08/03/2018 17:31

19/03/2018 14:26

We believe in a different perspective.

We see an oak bench. They see a rope bridge.

The Arundel dining table and bench. Made from nothing but North American oak. Designed to last a lifetime.

Neptune Chiswick, 305-307 Chiswick High Road, W4 4HH, 020 3814 1220 neptune.com/adifferentperspective

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19/02/2018 10:11

CULTURE • THEATRE

ROUND UP

Best in

SHOW

Get the most out of London’s theatre scene with our top stage picks for the month

Describe the Night

★★★★★

MUST SEE

From 30 April HAMPSTEAD THEATRE

Pulitzer Prize finalist, Rajiv Joseph’s darkly comic fantasia explores the blurred lines between lies, fiction, fact and conspiracy.

Spanning an incredible 90 years of Soviet and post-Soviet history, Describe the Night searches for the genesis of the post-truth world we live in. Eton Avenue, NW3 hampsteadtheatre.com

By H E L E N B R O W N

42nd Street ★★★★★ Ongoing TH E ATRE ROYA L

SANKARA

Faceless

Mood Music

From 17 April

From 21 April

PA RK TH E ATRE

THE O LD VIC

From returning director Prav MJ, Faceless highlights the power of the internet and its far reaching consequences in the 21st century.

Inspired by a true court case, the play follows the life of Susie, a suburban teenager who converts from Christianity to Islam and tries to reach Syria.

Clifton Terrace, N4; parktheatre.co.uk

‘Music is medication. The elixir of life.’ In an expensive London recording studio two songwriters, their lawyers and their psychotherapists go to battle over music in this wry exploration into the dark side of the music industry which sees Rhys Ifans return to The Old Vic stage.

The Cut, SE1; oldvictheatre.com

★★★★★

★★★★★

Photography Matt Crockett

For her first West End appearance in 30 years, Lulu joins the all-singing, all-dancing cast of 42nd Street. The musical is an American dream fable that follows young Peggy Sawyer, fresh off the bus from small-town America and just another face in the chorus line.

But when the leading lady gets injured, Peggy might just have the shot at stardom she’s always dreamed of.

Catherine Street, WC2B; 42ndstreetmusical.co.uk

Sankara ★★★★★

Until 14 April CO C K P I T TH E ATR E

The life and death of Thomas Sankara, President of Burkina Faso, takes centre stage in the insightful Sankara. Levi Roots has written the score for this eyeopening piece which uses live music and traditional African dance to tell the untold tale of the African hero.

Gateforth Street, NW8; thecockpit.org.uk

42ND STREET

FACELESS

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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5 & 12 April 2018

School holiday activities for kids aged 2-11 Looking to keep the kids entertained this Easter holiday? On 5 and 12 April, the ever popular Thumbs Up It’s Thursday returns to Kingston town centre with a range of fun and educational activities from face painting and treasure hunts to craft workshops and kids eat free offers.

visitkingston.co.uk KINGSTON.indd 1

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4.48 Psychosis An Opera by Philip Venables, based on the play by Sarah Kane ‘THERE IS NO SITTING IN THOUGHTFUL CONTEMPLATION AT A SHECHTER GIG. FOR PURE, HEART-POUNDING EXCITEMENT, THERE IS SIMPLY NO ONE TO TOUCH HIM.’

★★★★ ‘RAWLY POWERFUL’

Daily Express

The Telegraph

Hofesh Shechter/Shechter II

08 - 12 May | Tickets from £15 | lyric.co.uk

23 Apr - 04 May | Tickets from £15 | lyric.co.uk

Produced in association with HOME Manchester and the Lyric Hammersmith, and received production support from Fondazione I Teatri Reggio Emilia and a production residency at the Attenborough Centre for the Creative Arts, Brighton.

Produced by The Royal Opera in association with the Lyric Hammersmith A co-commission between The Royal Opera and Guildhall School of Music & Drama

Photograph by Rahi Rezvani

LH.indd 1 _CHIS_ADVERT PLACEMENTS.indd 1

Registered Charity, No. 278518

Photograph by Stephen Cummiskey

LH.indd 2 19/03/2018 12:04

Registered Charity, No. 278518

19/03/2018 12:04 19/03/2018 17:45

CULTURE • THEATRE

A Mad Macbeth

The National’s gory new version of the Scottish Play falls foul

O

B y A M A N DA C O N S TA N C E

h dear. The Olivier stage has become something of a poisoned chalice for Rufus Norris.

After a series of flops – Salome, Common, Saint George and the Dragon – the director of the National Theatre must have thought that Shakespeare’s crowdpleasing Macbeth would be a safe bet.

The omens were good. The dream pairing of Anne-Marie Duff and Rory Kinnear – who blazed across this stage as Iago and Hamlet - meant

the show sold out fast, but these two supremely talented actors are wasted in this gory mess.

We are in an unspecified postapocalyptic world; Mad Max meets Black Mirror in a rubbish tip. Rae Smith’s set is dark; an oppressive backdrop of what appear to be shredded black bin bags and a large, shifting, curved ramp divides the stage. The characters are grungy, ragged and desperate. Kinnear’s restless Macbeth uses gaffer tape to bind up his breastplate and Duff’s Lady Macbeth, in dirty vest, and without the necessary steel, resembles a needy, anxious addict.

“Mad Max meets Black Mirror in a rubbish tip”

ABSOLUTELY reviews…

There are flourishes –Hannah Hutch’s girl-child witch is chilling as she giggles manically, darting around stage. But there is an overwhelming lack of coherence. Interesting ideas flash by and are lost in hammy gruesome effects. Much of the drama skirts perilously close to camp horror – Kevin Harvey as Banquo’s ghost soon becomes hilarious as he lurches, mouth brimful of blood, like a drunk about the stage.

This is an austerity era Macbeth.

But without any grandeur or gravity it’s hard to see what these grubby individuals are fighting for; it’s like a turf war in a Glasgow car park.

Worst of all, the play has lost its poetry – the witches have their dialogue so brutally truncated that the play's constant dualism, its assertion that "fair is foul and foul is fair" – and thus its great moral debate – is entirely lost.

The cumulative effect is flat and unmoving. The evening begins and ends with a gruesome decapitation, perhaps a portent for heads that might roll at the NT after this absolute stinker?

VERDICT

No grandeur or gravity – an absolute stinker ★★★★★ M AC B E T H UNTIL 23 JUNE 2018; Tickets: 020 7452 3000 nationaltheatre.org.uk A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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CLASS ACT From screen printing to wine tasting, try something new this April with Petersham Nurseries’ tasting events and horticultural workshops

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CULTURE • LOCAL HAPPENING

T

o celebrate the arrival of spring, Petersham Nurseries is welcoming back its series of interactive and demonstrative masterclasses, tasting

events and horticultural workshops. From screen printing to planting, there’ll be something to keep your minds (and hands) occupied this season.

So what should we expect from the 2018 line-up? Green-fingered individuals will be thrilled to know that the renowned School of Garden Inspiration workshops will be returning this year. Set up by Thomas Broom-Hughes in 2015, the initiative was born from a desire to share knowledge and impart new skills. This year, the horticultural team has announced a calendar of events under the title of The Urban School of Garden Inspiration.

Taking place around the Potting Bench within The Shop, and on occasion in the Courtyard, guests can immerse themselves in these creative workshops whilst learning new skills in a stimulating environment. Heads of horticulture, Thomas Broom-Hughes and Amanda Brame,

“From screen printing to planting, there’ll be something to keep your minds (and hands) occupied until summer” will impart their expertise and knowledge in interactive and animated workshops, demonstrating breath-taking floral and horticultural creativity. Whether you're a novice or advanced gardener, all will be encouraged to develop new skills.

April sees the horticultural team hosting an exclusive class on Kokedama, the Japanese variant of bonsai that is storming the nation. In this workshop guests will learn how to create their own spring Kokedama, using seasonal plants and bulbs, and will create three different types to take home. Looking ahead to May, highlights include stencilling with nature, where guests will join Petersham Nurseries and La Serra MK Textile Atelier for the exclusive workshop as part of London Craft Week.

You’ll learn about natural dying techniques, including silk screen printing, hand-painting and stencil printing, to create unique soft furnishings for the home. During the

workshop, guests will be able to create their own apron, using a combination of British and Italian traditional techniques and plants from Petersham Nurseries’ gardens and natural fibres as dyes.

If you're more passionate about tipples than tulips, then fear not, because throughout the year Damian Clisby, Chef Director at Petersham Nurseries and Petersham Cellar will be hosting a series of food and wine events. Guests will be able to enjoy fine Italian wines and sample a delicious seasonal menu served in Petersham Nurseries Café.

The culinary and horticultural team will also be collaborating once again for their signature edible flower workshop. Chef Director, Damian Clisby, and horticultural experts will guide you on how to grow, select and cook with edible flowers. At lunch, in Petersham Nurseries Café, the tables will be beautifully decorated with edible flowers for guests to use throughout the three-course meal. The perfect way to celebrate the start of summer.

ABOUT PETERSHAM NURSERIES Petersham Nurseries was carved out of the Petersham House grounds in the 1970s. Shortly before the turn of the century, the business was bought by Gael and Francesco Boglione who have, with their family, lived in the adjoining Petersham House in Richmond since 1997. After extensive restoration works, the nurseries reopened in 2004, completely transformed. Today, visitors are invited to dine in the glasshouse restaurant (Petersham Nurseries Café), browse plants in the Nursery, find antiques and gifts in The Shop, or sit, wander and enjoy seasonal food and homemade cakes in the Teahouse.

PETERSHAM NURSERIES Church Lane, Petersham Road, TW10; 020 8940 5230 All events can be booked at petershamnurseries.com

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A WARM

Welcome

Dresses - Handbag - Jewellery - Shoes - Gifts 60 Hill Rise, Richmond TW10 6UB WWW.RAWLUXE.CO.UK

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FASHION

PARIS JE T'AIME TARA JARMON

If you’re looking for timeless, well-crafted pieces with a Parisian twist, then Tara Jarmon is your label.

Founded in 1986, the brand’s designs are shaped by a modern femininity.

This is style that will carry you season after season. tarajarmon.com

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FASHION NOTES

Ethical fashion reigns, saddle bags shape up and bridesmaid style gets a makeover for April

By J OY M O N TG O M E RY

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EDITOR’S PICK

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HUNTER ORIGINAL

Country meets city for Hunter Original’s SS18 Refined collection. Playing on the current trend for luxe sportswear, the new season brings a number of iconic outwear pieces, including an oversized bomber and utilitarian drawstring coat, all made in innovative, water-resistant neon fabrics. Guaranteed to carry you through April showers in style. hunterboots.com

5 OF THE BEST

TO RTO I S E S H E L L AC C E S S O R I E S

3 5

4

1. Aspinal of London, The Mini Trunk Clutch, £450; aspinaloflondon.com 2. Linda Farrow, Tortoiseshell D-Frame Acetate Glasses, £389; matchesfashion.com 3. Cult Gaia, Kennedy Tortoiseshell Resin Hoop Earrings, £85; net-aporter.com 4. Simon Miller, Medium Hammered Earrings, £575; net-a-porter.com 5. Stella McCartney, Faux Leather Ankle Boots, £630; mytheresa.com

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FASHION • NOTES

Modern

B R A N D T O WAT C H

MAIDS

EPONINE LONDON

LES HÉROÏNES

Goodbye matchy-matchy gowns and unflattering fits.

Bridesmaid style is having a makeover moment thanks to Les Héroïnes, the Parisbased occasion-wear label.

Celebrating the diversity of your right hand women, Les Héroïnes is all about elegant pieces that are individual yet harmonise as a whole. lesheroines.com

Couture fabrics and artisanal charm rule this season

WHO? Eponine London was founded by designer Jet Shenkman in 2014 as a bespoke womenswear brand inspired by the elegant silhouettes of the 50’s and 60’s. Raised in the Netherlands, Jet came to London at the age of 21 to work in the Dutch Embassy before being transferred to Tokyo where she later worked as a personal stylist.

After meeting her British husband Greg, the two lived together in Hong Kong, before finally settling back in London in 2012.

Dress

SAD D LE UP LO E W E

Hit the open road this April with Loewe’s Gate Bag. Inspired by the classic saddle silhouette, it ticks both the form and function boxes with its roomy interior and distinctive bow-tie design.

Coming in two sizes and three types of calfskin, we’ll be pairing ours with a seventies shirt, straight leg jeans and an oversized trench. loewe.com

PARADE SELF-PORTRAIT

A-list frock favourite, Self-Portrait, has announced the launch of its first store.

Located on Mayfair’s Albemarle Street, the shop will stock Han Chong's signature feminine, fashionforward looks, including both main-line collections and store exclusives. self-portrait-studio.com

WHAT ?

EDITOR’S PICK

NINETY PERCENT

Do-Good

DESIGN

Style needn’t compromise ethics with Ninety Percent.

This innovative brand pioneers a business model where 90% of profits are shared between a range of charitable causes.

Customers can have a say in where the money goes and each purchase comes with the option to vote for a cause. ninetypercent.com

Dressing countless stars, including Helen Mirren and Kate Middleton, every Eponine garment is crafted at their atelier in South Kensington. This season, the brand looks to Russia and the Ukraine for inspiration.

The result? Intricate designs, bold colours and elaborate embroidery. Wear with a sporty bomber and biker boots now, and come summer, elevate its girly charm with a straw tote and leather gladiator sandals.

eponinelondon.com

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German kitchens

Azco Interior s 94 Heath Road Tw i c k e n h a m TW1 4BW

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FASHION • TREND GÜL HÜRGEL Broderie Anglaise-Trimmed Striped Linen Dress, £710; net-a-porter.com

MANGO High-Waist Palazzo Trousers, £35.99; shop.mango.com

ACNE STUDIOS Mock Leather Jacket, £1,200; mytheresa.com

DORATEYMUR VICTORIA BECKHAM SS18

Open-Toe Buckled Mules, £330; dorateymur.com

TOPSHOP Hibiscus Ankle Boots, £85; topshop.com

BAIA Lavender Suede, £260; baiabags.co.uk

Purple Reign

CHLOÉ

Silk-Blend Blouse, £740; mytheresa.com

Spiritual, thoughtful, provocative; Pantone’s Colour of the Year is here to shake up your style

TIBI SS18

B y J OY M O N T G O M E R Y

EDITOR’S PICK

ROLAND MOURET Arreton Wool-Crepe Pencil Skirt, £450; rolandmouret.com

BALENCIAGA Silk-Satin & Crepe de Chine Dress, £2,335; net-a-porter.com

HILLIER BARTLEY Double-Breasted Linen Blazer, £1,495; net-a-porter.com

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AKRIS SS18

AKRIS SS18

DOLLS

L I V I N G

Work by Alexander Girard, one of the leading ďŹ gures in post-war American design, has inspired a fashion collection for SS18.

Absolutely takes a look Wo r d s P E N D L E H A R T E

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AKRIS SS18

AKRIS SS18

FASHION • DESIGN

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D

esigner Alexander Girard (1907-1993) is having a moment.

A quarter of a century after his death, the Italian architect, furniture, textile and interior designer is the subject of a touring exhibition – and now an extensive fashion collection is dedicated to his aesthetic, transferring his signature bold colours and patterns onto clothes for the first time.

‘When you practise in all fields of design, each field benefits from your experience in the others. And all design is related, whether houses, gardens, furniture or women’s clothes,’ said Girard. One of the most influential textile artists and interior designers of the 20th century, Girard is associated with bright colours, quirky shapes and humorous details. He’s perhaps best known for his collection of painted wooden dolls, a staple of stylish mantelpieces all over the world, which are still handmade for Vitra and which he designed for himself in 1953. It’s a large family of animals and humans, all individually made and therefore unique, and these design icons are characterful and fun as well as stylish and iconic.

ALEXANDER GIRARD POUCH

AKRIS SS18

Together with his close friends Charles and Ray Eames and George Nelson, Girard was a leading figure of post-war American design. The primary focus of his wide-ranging oeuvre was textile design; as head of the textile division at the Herman Miller Company, Girard created numerous fabric patterns and products reflecting his love of festive colours, motifs and textures. He favoured abstract and geometric forms in a predominantly cheerful palette of colours.

He was also a passionate collector. On his extensive travels, he avidly accumulated textiles and objects from all over the world, which provided him with a rich source of inspiration and ideas. When he died, his wife Susan bequeathed holdings from this collection to the Vitra Design Museum along with the contents of Girard’s studio (hundreds of drawings, prototypes and textile samples). This creative estate formed the basis of the major retrospective, Alexander Girard. A Designer’s Universe that ran at the Vitra Design Museum in Germany recently and which is currently touring the world. This exhibition made a lasting impression on Albert Kriemler, creative director od Swiss fashion house Akris. He said: ‘I visited the Girard exhibition in the Vitra Design Museum three times because I was so excited about his creative genius. He saw things differently.

He had a way of changing our view of the world.’

Akris’s Spring/Summer 2018 collection is a tribute to the designer. It features well-known prints such as the Double Heart reinterpreted in woven leather and a jacquard knit.

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ALEXANDER GIRARD WOODEN DOLL

AKRIS SS18

FASHION • DESIGN

“He saw things differently. He had a way of changing our view of the world”

ALEXANDER GIRARD MATCHBOXES

Kriemler also drew inspiration from a number of lesser known objects, designs and sketches from Alexander Girard’s oeuvre, providing a new perspective on the elegance and esprit of Girard’s creations. He adapted the designs in close collaboration with Alexander Girard’s descendants, his grandchildren Kori and Aleishall Girard, who jointly run the Girard Studio today. They said: “We were pleasantly surprised to see the selection of our grandfather’s works that Albert Kriemler chose for this collaboration. He found inspiration from many aspects of our grandfather’s career: wooden sculpture, architectural renderings, oil paintings and collage, to name a few. Seeing how Albert has interpreted these designs and adapted them for clothing is exciting for us, as we have always seen the potential for this work to translate very well to fashion. We feel that the final outcome is a beautiful and unique tribute to the work of our Alexander Girard.”

THE VITRA DESIGN MUSEUM exhibition ‘Alexander Girard. A Designer’s Universe’ is now touring internationally and continues at Hangaram Design Museum, Seoul, South Korea until 4 March 2018, reopening at the Berkeley Art Museum, USA, from 20 June until 9 September 2018

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FOLK TALE Take a journey through Hungarian folklore this spring with Lena Hoschek’s elaborate embroidery and romantic silhouettes

Lena Hoschek SS18 available from S H O P. L E N A H O S C H E K . C O M

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ABSOLUTELY • PROMOTION

Fresh Fashion

A new fashion boutique is coming to Richmond, bringing a host of fresh design talent to locals and visitors alike

A

fter months of anticipation, high-end fashion boutique RawLuxe has opened on Richmond Hill, where florists Bramble & Moss were previously located. Easily recognisable by its white exterior, RawLuxe has connotations of luxury - but the question is, does RawLuxe have as much to offer as Rolex?

The boutique is reasonably sized and boasts the same whitewashed interior that covers the exterior. The products are beautifully organised and we recognise a handbag that was featured on The Apprentice.

The director Cindy is warm and welcoming. She serves us coffee and introduces us to the brand. With more than 10 years experience in a luxury fashion house, she wanted to use her expertise to help newly formed brands - specifically provide a service to young designers within the first five years of their business.

“They discover talent in its raw form”

Rawluxe isn’t just a retail boutique, it also acts as a showroom, consultancy and PR service. After one and a half years operating online, Rawluxe has now expanded to become the traditional bricks and mortar store that Cindy always dreamed of, with a small and dedicated team.

Cindy explains: “From quality dresses and handbags to jewellery and shoes, we aim to create a one-stop-shop for women”. They also have a good range of men’s accessories and lifestyle items.

When we ask Cindy why consumers should choose RawLuxe, she tells us they discover talent in its raw form and help brands to become a more polished version of themselves. For example, they have worked with Setor Lord Attivor on their design improvement and pricing strategy, working wardrobe brand THEME on their debut ‘See Now Buy Now ‘ SS18 collection and Aletheia-Italian shoes with their celebrity seeding.

Cindy is clearly passionate about her designers, and before we leave we ask her to descibe Rawluxe in one sentence. “It supports young designers, promotes slow fashion and connects brands with customers”.

Cindy is offering Absolutely readers a 10% discount in April, please mention on your visit.

R AW LUX E 60 Hill Rise, TW10 6UB rawluxe.co.uk

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FASHION • JEWELLERY

A Bug’s Life The animal kingdom provides inspiration for these insectile styles

GUCCI

DANIELA VILLEGAS

BIBI VAN DER VELDEN

Gold-Tone, Faux Pearl & Enamel Earrings, £470 net-a-porter.com

Sapphire & Tourmaline Beetle Ring, £1,445 brownsfashion.com

Scarab Beetle & Black Pearl Bangle, £2,190 Available at Dover Street Market

ANNOUSHKA

MAJE

BALENCIAGA

18ct Gold & Calcite Scarab Beetle Pendant, £3,800 annoushka.com

Beetle Necklace, £59 selfridges.com

Silver-Tone Ring, £175 net-a-porter.com

ALEXANDER MCQUEEN

AURELIE BIDERMANN

ETRO

Gold-Plated, Crystal, Faux Pearl & Resin Cuff, £675 net-a-porter.com

Beetle Pendant, £3,506 farfetch.com

Enameled Gold-Tone Multi-Stone Earrings, £400 net-a-porter.com

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OTTO AVIATOR BY KITE EYEWEAR

KITE EYEWEAR

THE NEW VISIONARIES London’s optometrists are upping their game. Absolutely meets some of the people who are reinventing the eyesight business

By PENDLE HARTE

FINLAY & CO

RIPLEY FRAME BY ALEXIS AMOR

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T

here’s no excuse for pedestrian experiences any more.

Even having a sight test is an occasion to celebrate now that wearing glasses is glamorous, and the job of choosing them is often accompanied by a glass of champagne or a smoothie. And as they grow in glamour, glasses also seem to be getting cheaper while many of the new brands boast that they’re hand-made in the UK.

Confusing times for myopia – or not? Fixed prices have become fairly standard, where in the past the cost of lenses plus countless extras would be added to a quoted frame price.

Alexis Amor has been in the business for many years and a couple of years ago he launched his own brand frames, designed by him, to sell alongside the more established names he was used to stocking. He had started out selling glasses to people who would bring their own prescriptions with them, but his Richmond store now offers its own sight tests in a stylish space. His own collection of frames is large enough to cover everything people might want, yet compact enough to make choosing fairly easy, and it’s a stylish range with a high-class feel. Amor is clearly a man with a passion for

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FASHION • EYEWEAR

CHARLIE FRAME BY ALEXIS AMOR

RIVINGTON FRAME BY KITE EYEWEAR

vision correction, and amazingly, he can make up a pair of glasses while you wait. He’s proud of his cutting edge machines that will laser cut lenses to fit in minutes; he stocks most normal lenses but can order anything slightly unusual within 24 hours. So for him, it’s glasses while you wait, and a personal, friendly service with it. You can see why people keep coming back.

Recently opened in Shoreditch is Kite, which launched its unusually large space with a celebrity-studded bash. This is a design-led shop that’s proud of its tech as well as its untraditional approach. You’re appointed a personal stylist to help you choose your frames from their own-brand range, and they’ll offer you a pile of polaroids showing glasses to look through as well as a vegetable smoothie to fortify you. It’s like a game – you pick three that you like, and they’ll pick three that they think will work for you. For me, the results were wildly different. What I thought might suit me was not what they thought, and they’re very persuasive. Behind the scenes it’s unusual too – instead of the regular sight test, a machine simply takes ALEXIS AMOR

JEAN BY KITE EYEWEAR

JEAN FRAME BY KITE EYEWEAR

all the measurements it needs and produces a prescription instantly.

With this being so new, however, they’ll perform a routine sight test to double check, so they’re not quite ready to dispense with the tiny letter card and red/green light board yet.

Glasses aren’t made up on site but sent to Carl Zeiss in Germany for a very fast turnaround.

Originally a sunglasses company known for their wooden frames, Finlay & Co expanded into opticals and recently opened a flagship store in Soho, again focusing on a stylish interior and a luxurious feel with surprisingly low prices – most frames are £100, with lenses starting at £50.

Meanwhile in Queens Park, Sid Fiz’s ‘boutique optical store’ sells all the premium brands as well as Fiz’s own high-end creations.

In the market for new glasses?

Don’t put up with any experience that’s less than luxurious.

JAMIE FRAME BY ALEXIS AMOR

alexisamor.com • kiteeyewear.com finlayandco.com • sidfizoptique.com

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Consultations and treatment take place in the superb new HCA facility which has been refurbished to bring a wide variety of medical specialties to West London.

H A R L EY S T R E E T C O M E S T O C H I S W I C K After twenty-five years in Harley Street and now in Crescent Place in South Kensington, The Aesthetic Surgeons are now offering consultations and non-surgical treatments at the new HCA facility at Bond House in Chiswick High Road. Norman Waterhouse is the founding surgeon of The Aesthetic Surgeons and has twenty-five years of experience in aesthetic and cosmetic surgery.

The Aesthetic Surgeons carry out a full range of procedures including FACELIFT RHINOPLASTY AESTHETIC BREAST SURGERY

BREAST AUGMENTATION BREAST REDUCTION MASTOPEXY/BREAST LIFT

ABDOMINOPLASTY LIPOSUCTION LABIAPLASTY

and many others In addition anti-wrinkle injections and dermal filler treatment is provided as well as removal of a wide variety of skin lesions.

For consultations and information please contact Karen Burns at info@theaestheticsurgeons.com 020 7636 4073 OR enquiries.chiswick@hcahealthcare.co.uk

www.theaestheticsurgeons.com

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

FIELDS OF GOLD JO MALONE

Hearty oat, fluffy barley, earthy rye and the freshness of flowers make up Jo Malone’s English Fields collection.

Capturing the essence of the English countryside, these five limited edition scents focus on the wholesome warmth of cereals and grains, each with a floral pairing. jomalone.co.uk

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BEAUTY NOTES

A new season calls for a fresh approach to your beauty routine. Here's where to start...

By J OY M O N TG O M E RY

SPRING Fling D O LC E & GA B B A N A B E AU T Y

Experience the beauty of Sicilian spring with the Dolce Garden makeup collection. Inspired by the natural blush of roses, the edit is made up of lipsticks, eyeshadows, blushers and nail varnish, all in vivid corals, fuchsias and pinks. A guaranteed winner for all complexions. dolcegabbana.com LUMITY

Day and Night Nutritional Supplement, £90; lumitylife.co.uk

BEAUTY BENEATH

VITABIOTICS

Original Formula, £39.99; boots.com

Perfectil Plus Skin, £18.49; boots.com

5 OF THE BEST SKIN SUPPLEMENTS

FOUNTAIN

The Glow Molecule, £38; fountain.co

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THE NUE

Plant Protein + Gut Food, 200g, £50; thenueco.com

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • NOTES

ACROSS THE POND

EXPERT TIPS

DRUNK ELEPHANT

Drunk Elephant is the US export and the beauty expert's skincare secret, which is winging its away across the pond for 2018.

Due to launch in Space NK in September, hero products include the C-Firma Day Serum, containing 15 percent L-ascorbic acid, and the Lala Retro™ Whipped Cream.

Credit cards at the ready. drunkelephant.com

NON-SURGICAL TREATMENTS: AN EXPERT GUIDE B y N O R M A N WAT E R H O U S E

H Y D R A FAC I A L S

EDITOR’S PICK

BRIGHT START OMOROVICZA

AU NATURALE

PERRICONE MD

Inspired by this year's bare-faced beauty trend, Perricone MD’s No Makeup Collection is designed to imitate the look and feel of natural skin. We love the No Makeup Lipgloss, with its non-sticky consistency and flattering pink shade, and the No Makeup Blush, which looks just as good on the lips as it does on cheeks. perriconemd.co.uk

Exfoliate, brighten and prep the skin for the season ahead with Omorovicza’s Acid Fix. Combining a potent blend of AHAs and BHAs, this hardworking serum helps to reverse damage caused by sunlight, pollution and acne. Apply in the evening two to three times a week for dreamy derma. £85; omorovicza.com

Balancing Act AESOP

This April, plant-based beauty brand Aesop has released a new skincare range: In Two Minds.

Designed to address the multifaceted nature of combination skin, the products work to gently cleanse, soothe irritation and normalise sebum production. Finally, balance has been restored. aesop.com

• Hydrafacials are one of the best nonsurgical treatments for rehydrating the skin.

At Waterhouse Young we offer Hydrafacials and also a skin-resurfacing treatment called the Fire and Ice Facial, which is a mask that soothes and hydrates the skin. These treatments give an immediate result with smoother skin and refreshed appearance.

They need to be repeated, but the wow factor is impressive.

CLINICAL PEELS

• The whole issue of peels is a little ubiquitous. Essentially, the deeper you go with the peel the more potential benefit, but also the more potential complications, including hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation. Peels need to be thought about carefully and anyone starting to think about resurfacing should start with very gentle fruit acid peels or extremely light peels. One step up is the 30% TCA peel, which can be highly effective in smoothing the skin and removing very minor wrinkles and blemishes. Remember, only undertake peel treatment in the care of experienced aesthetic physicians and nurses.

MICRO-NEEDLING

• Micro medical skin needling procedures can also be very helpful in stimulating the production of collagen and elastin. This is often helpful for improving the appearance of lines and wrinkles, sun damage and even some scarring. This is usually done with a derma roller, but it is important to note that there are a number of micro-needling techniques which do not involve appropriate genuine derma roller equipment. It is essential that an appropriate derma roller is used to achieve the best results.

For full article visit absolutely.london AESTHETIC SURGEONS

347-352 Chiswick High Road, W4 theaestheticsurgeons.com

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LIKE &

WIN!

Like Dr Bela’s Facebook page and win a Zein Obagi Daily Skincare Kit. On-going prize draw is at the end of each month.

Dr Bela would like to build his Facebook page as a primary channel of communication, so encourages his patients to LIKE it for useful information on skin care, facial aesthetic procedures and interesting news from and about the industry.

A Zein Obagi Daily Skincare Program (worth £130) will be randomly drawn and awarded among those who sign up by the end of the previous month. The first draw will be held at the end of March for those who liked the page in February and are active at the time of the draw.

DR BELA’S MAIN SERVICES: •Facial aesthetic treatments (such as Fillers and Wrinkle injections) •Mole clinic •General dermatology consultations •Weight loss clinic •Thread vein removal •Art-Vampire project facebook.com/DrBela.clinic Appointments: 0203 903 1321

For more information on all our procedures and latest promotions please contact us on:

0203 930 1321 / www.DrBela.clinic We are located within the Hogarth Club; Airedale Ave, Chiswick, W4 2NW Earlier likes and re-likes are excluded. You don’t need to be a patient of doctor Bela to be eligible, but you should be able to pick up the prize should you win

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Located within The Hogarth Club

19/02/2018 16:21

CHANEL Coco Mademoiselle Eau De Parfum Intense

HEALTH & BEAUTY • TREND

ELIE SAAB Feuilles D’or Eau de Parfum 50ml, £60 harrods.com

MALIN+GOETZ Cannabis Eau de Parfum 100ml, £125 malinandgoetz.co.uk

PENHALIGON'S Elisabethan Rose Eau de Parfum 100ml, £137 penhaligons.com

BULGARI Magnolia Sensuel 100ml, £97 selfridges.com

FRESH SCENTS

D.S. & DURGA Vio Volta Eau de Parfum 50ml, £139 libertylondon.com

Update your olfactory wardrobe this spring with the latest fragrance releases

L’ARTISAN PARFUMEUR Champs de Fleurs Eau de Cologne 100ml, £105 artisanparfumeur.com

ANDREA MAACK Birch Eau de Parfum 100ml, £90 roullierwhite.com

B y J OY M O N T G O M E R Y

VAN CLEEF & ARPELS Néroli Amara Eau de Parfum 75ml, £130 selfridges.com

CHANEL FOREO Coco Mademoiselle

TOM FORD Fucking Fabulous Eau de Parfum 50ml, £210 selfridges.com

VIKTOR&ROLF Flower Bomb Jasmine Twist 20ml, £50 viktor-rolf.com

UFO, £249 Eau de Parfum Intense foreo.com 100ml, £82 chanel.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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where science & beauty unite

MEDISPA

THE HOGARTH CLUB

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19/03/2018 15:37

THE ELIXIR OF YOUTH Should we all replace our skin creams with collagen drinks? Absolutely tries Skinade

F

or centuries, women have been slathering themselves in lotion in the hope that it will keep our skin smooth and clear. But what if we’ve been wrong all these years? What if we’ve been approaching it from entirely the wrong angle? Literally inside out. There is a school of thought that believes that skin health all comes from within, which leaves lotions pretty much redundant.

Step forward Skinade, a drink that promises to deliver healthier, younger-looking skin in a bottle.

They Say

• Skinade® works by triggering a physiological response in our bodies, specifically in our skin. Skinade increases collagen in the bloodstream by adding 7,000mg of hydrolysed

B y P E A R L B OY D

marine collagen (smallest molecular weight on the market of 2kDal) from each bottle (daily dose). As these collagen peptides are absorbed into the bloodstream, it prompts a wound-healing response which in turn will trigger the production of collagen in our bodies (by firing up the fibroblasts – our own collagen factories), and specifically in the skin as skinade® contains collagen type I and III (type most abundant in the skin). As a side benefit, increasing collagen in the bloodstream also increases the body’s ability to produce hyaluronic acid, responsible for optimising skin hydration and elastin, for a firmer more dewy and fresh complexion.

It is scientifically proven that liquids are much more readily absorbed than solids. With a liquid, the body does not need hours to break down the solid consistency of a

"After a month of daily dosing, I can detect a less tired look to my face"

HEALTH & BEAUTY • REVIEW

tablet or powder suspended in water, meaning the body can make the most of the precious ingredients. Skinade works isotonically, bypassing the digestive system to enter the bloodstream intact.

We Say…

• A month’s supply of Skinaid certainly involves a lot of packaging.

Each box contains five 150ml bottles; you can also choose travel-friendly sachets to mix your own. Swigging this stuff every morning quickly becomes second nature – just leave an hour between Skinaid and coffee.

The flavour is intensely peachy, in quite a nice way, and the mostly mystifying ingredients list includes a lot of B-vitamins, which are beneficial to all women anyway. Primarily this is about collagen, and boosting your body’s natural production of it. Skinade doesn’t promise instant results but after a month of daily dosing, I can detect a less tired look to my face and if I were to continue spending £105 every 30 days, I imagine that the effects would be striking. The downside? Things revert back to normal when you stop drinking it, so this is a long-term investment.

SKINADE skinade.com

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19/03/2018 17:49

HEALTH & BEAUTY • FITNESS

FITNESS

N E E D for SPEED We’ve taken heed of the London Marathon this month and selected the top pieces you need for your running kit

NOTES

By H E L E N B R O W N

CLIMB to the BEAT WE TRY OUT THE LATEST CRAZE MAKING WAVES IN THE FITNESS INDUSTRY ardio. It’s enough to put even the most determined off their workout. Often associated with the monotonous thud of the treadmill or the dull whirring of the spin bike, cardiovascular endurance has a pretty bad rep. Imagine then, a machine that makes the whole thing much more enjoyable. Enter, the VersaClimber. I’m at BXR London, home to Europe’s first VersaClimber group exercise studio, to try it out.

C

WHAT IS IT? 1. HPE Impact Bra, £50; hpeactivewear.com 2. LULU LEMON Speed Sock, £18; lululemon. co.uk 3. SWEATY BETTY Anna Headband, £10; sweatybetty.com 4. SWEATY BETTY Zero Gravity Run Leggings, £95; sweatybetty. com 5. AFTERSHOKZ Trekz Air, £149.99; aftershokz.co.uk 6. NIKE Sportswear Cheyenne 3.0 Solid, £42.95; nike.com 7. REEBOK Vizlocity Jacket, £119.95; reebok.co.uk

The class is called Climb to the Beat and makes up part of the innovative offering from Sweat

by BXR. The timetable focuses on the fundamental pillars of athletic training - strength and conditioning, skills, mobility and cardio, so visitors to the luxury

boxing gym have everything under one roof. Climb to the Beat is formulated much like a spin class, although the weapon of choice is the VersaClimber. This is a 75 degree vertical beam with handles and foot pedals designed to be pulled and pushed in a way that assimilates climbing. This motion activates all major muscle groups, whilst toning, improving posture and burning a phenomenal amount of calories.

WHO IS IT FOR?

The class is like no other in London so in each session you’ll find everyone, from those trying out their first class to the seasoned pro.

As a beginner, I felt welcomed and supported throughout.

WHAT IS IT LIKE?

The VersaClimber takes a little getting used to, however five minutes in and I begin to find my stride. The class is formed around intense bursts of climbing in which we are instructed to make long strokes with the arms while pushing the pedals deep into the floor, followed by periods of active rest: shorter movements that are less

gruelling but no less tiring. Just a few rounds in and I am reaching for the towel and water. The tunes, along with our instructor’s energy, go a great way in getting me through the class. Those with a penchant for 3am clubbing will appreciate the blacked out room, neon lighting and heavy bangers; they do wonders for distracting from the task at hand and before I know it, the class flies by. Along with the burning in my arms and legs, I feel my back and core hard at work, but the movement on the whole is far easier on the body than running, for example, with the machine taking most of the impact.

I leave with wobbly legs but the satisfaction of having completed one of London’s toughest workouts. Definitely one for those looking to add a new dimension to their fitness regime.

SW E AT BY B X R C L I M B TO T H E B E AT Classes priced from £15 as part of a package plan, or £6 as part of a monthly Sweat Membership.

24 Paddington Street, W1U; bxrlondon.com

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London’S BIGGEST CELEBRATION OF FOOD, DRINK & WELLBEING

london syon park

BANK HOLIDAY

26, 27, 28 MAY

top tv chefs

www.foodiesfestival.com FF.indd 1

●

0844 9951111 19/03/2018 14:35

FOOD & DRINK

A DATE FOR THE DIARY FOODIES FESTIVAL This May bank holiday, Foodies Festival is back, with a bigger and better line-up than before. There will be prosecco and parmesan tasting, kombucha workshops and Matt Tebbutt cooking up a storm in the Chef’s Theatre.

Syon Park, Brentford, TW8 foodiesfestival.com

Wines of the month 62 • The best boozy brunches 63 • Food Review: The Clayton Hotel 70 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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WHAT TO DRINK

GRAPE news Wine recommendations for the month

TASTING NOTES

London’s food news and delicious things to see you through April

By MIRIAM CAREY

By BERRY BROS. & RUDD

2014 Berry Bros. & Rudd Rioja by Bodegas Amézola de la Mora £11.95 Bodegas Amézola de la Mora vineyards, planted with Tempranillo, Mazuelo and Graciano, benefit from a high altitude and cool climate, yielding elegant, classic wines packed full of harmonious red berry and vanilla flavours.

2016 Chablis, Domaine Sébastien Dampt £19.50 The sort of wine that there should always be a bottle of on-hand in the fridge. This isn’t trying to reinvent the wheel – crisp green apple, lemon wax and honeysuckle florals deliver a fresh flavour and lovely texture.

Berry Bros. & Rudd Cremant de Limoux

by Antech £12.25 A blend of 70 percent Chardonnay and 30 percent Chenin Blanc and Mauzac. This is a beautiful, balanced wine, with elegant aromas of orchard fruit and honeyed spice.

BERRY BROS. & RUDD 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

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Flavour and Finesse T H E P E T E R S H A M R E STAU R A N T

The Petersham Restaurant has a new head chef, the talented Jean-Didier Gouges, previously of Rhubarb’s flagship finedining restaurant in the Royal Albert Hall. Gouges expertly unites flavour and colour in every dish, drawing on his wealth of experience and talent for intriguing combinations.

The Petersham, Nightingale Lane, TW10 petershamhotel.co.uk

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FOOD & DRINK• NOTES Our pick of the best

B OT TO M L E S S B RU N C H E S

CAMDEN TOWN BREWERY

The home of Camden Hells, Camden Town Brewery can throw one hell of a brunch. At the monthly bottomless event, guests tuck into endless buttermilk pancakes, skillet-baked eggs, croissants, sourdough toast and beer before embarking on a tour of the famous brewhouse.

Unit 1 Navigation Park, EN3 camdentownbrewery.com

APPETISING ACCOLADE A CENA

A Cena has just been awarded 6th place for best Italian restaurant in London in the Bookatable Diners Awards. We suspect the independent eatery achieved this no small feat due to their commitment to outstanding customer service and comforting cuisine.

We reccomend trying it for yourself - the fried tiger prawns with spicy lemon mayonnaise are a winner.

418 Richmond Road, TW1 acena.co.uk

V I N OT E CA

As the longer days and warmer weather arrives, the timing is perfect for the opening of The Bush Theatre’s new cocktail menu, conservatory and garden terrace.

The ideal suntrap for a mid-week coffee and croissant, or a Saturday afternoon with blueberry caipirinha cocktails and friends.

7 Uxbridge Road, W12 bushtheatre.co.uk

MOMMI

BUNGA BUNGA

Neighbourhood gem Vinoteca has launched a monthly wine club for adventurous drinkers who relish new discoveries. The wine club provides a monthly case of six bottles and owners Brett Woonton and Charlie Young won't be playing safe with their choices.

18 Devonshire Road, W4 vinoteca.co.uk

BUSH THEATRE

Mommi is just as much about the atmosphere as it is the food. Visit on a Saturday when the Miami vibes are at their height and opt for the threecourse bottomless prosecco brunch, with delicious peruvian nibbles and an inspired menu of fusion favourites.

44-48 Clapham High Street, SW4 wearemommi.com

Every Saturday Bunga Bunga hosts a brunch to rival all brunches.

Unlimited bellinis and prosecco are the order of the day, and guests can help themselves to carafes of prosecco or get involved mixing their own bellini cocktails. Be sure to try the red berry-based Rossini.

37 Battersea Bridge Road, SW11 Bungabunga-london.com

WINE SOCIETY

SUN TRAP

BENITO’S HAT

What better way to spend your weekend than getting merry on bloody Marias and Margaritas with your amigos at the quirky mexican joint Benito’s Hat? There will be an abundance of breakfast tacos on hand to soak up the alcohol - filled with chorizo and scrambled eggs.

Covent Garden, WC2N Benitos-hat.com

ITALIAN EVENING BOROUGH WINES & BEERS

On the 11th April, Borough Wines & Beers will be hosting a food and wine pairing evening, navigating guests through the famously tricky Italian wine landscape and sipping favourites from Piedmonte to Puglia.

51 Turnham Green Terrace, W4

boroughwines.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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t’s no coincidence that a cookbook of mine is called Feasting. I don’t know any other way to cook or eat.

As a very young girl I stayed up late in case there was an extra chocolate soufflé at my mum’s dinner parties. Our family meals were always cooked and eaten in the kitchen, with the food laid out for everyone to help themselves.

At Chanukah (Hanukkah) there were doughnuts, birthday dinners always ended with those soufflés, and Shabbat meant four courses.

The best thing about Friday nights at my grandparents’ was the leftovers my brother and I would eat the next morning for breakfast – everything from cabbage rolls to potato kugel.

I

TREATS from the Middle East In Amanda Ruben’s new book, Feasting, delicious desserts, from rich halva cheesecake to chocolate and rosewater pavlova, pay homage to the author’s Jewish heritage 64

“As a young girl I stayed up late in case there was an extra soufflé at my mum's dinner” On holidays, we’d spend hours at farmers’ markets and roadside stalls, lugging produce back to rented houses to cook for that night’s dinner. My husband, Mark, who grew up eating meat and three veg, still talks about the amount of food laid out on the table the first time he ate dinner at my parents’ house.

At Miss Ruben (Amanda's restaurant in Melbourne, Australia) we’re known for creating picturesque, abundant grazing tables using the freshest ingredients, which is what really defines my food. And the aim of this book is to let you create a little bit of this at home, by mixing and matching the recipes to make your own feasts.

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FOOD & DRINK • RECIPES

Chocolate Swirl Pavlova with rosewater cream, Turkish delight and strawberries Serves 10 ˜ 12

B

right and bountiful, this chocolate swirl pavlova with its Middle Eastern flavours is a real show stopper. In winter we flavour the cream with orange blossom and top the pav with roasted pears and pistachios.

INGREDIENTS • 9 egg whites • 690 g caster sugar • 1½ teaspoons cornflour, sifted • 2 tablespoons Dutch (unsweetened) cocoa powder • ¾ teaspoon white vinegar • 500 ml double cream • 1 tablespoon rosewater • 750 g strawberries, cut into thick slices and halves • 150 g Turkish delight, cut into pieces • rose petals, to garnish

METHOD

Halva Cheesecake Serves 10 ˜ 12

H

alva fans will be left dreaming about this cake with its smooth, rich sesame-flavoured filling. I like to use plain halva in the body of the cake but top it with chunks of the chocolateflavoured stuff just to make it even more irresistible. It’s a perfect cake to make for Shavout, when it’s traditional to eat milk products.

INGREDIENTS Crust • 200g Marie biscuits • 6 tablespoons butter, melted, plus extra for greasing

Filling • 600 g plain halva, crushed • 185 ml double cream • 1.5 kg quark • 6 eggs • 120 g chocolate halva, crumbled

1 Preheat the oven to 180°C. Cut out a 30 cm circle of baking paper and place it in the middle of a baking tray.

METHOD Grease a 25 cm springform cake tin and line it with baking paper.

1

2 To make the crust, add the biscuits to a food processor and blitz to a fine crumb. Transfer to a mixing bowl. Add the melted butter and mix until thoroughly combined. Pour the mixture into the cake tin and press down firmly to form a crust.

Refrigerate while you make the filling.

3 Preheat the oven to 160°C. To make the filling, combine the plain halva and cream in a frying pan over low heat. Cook, stirring gently, until the halva has completely dissolved.

Remove from the heat.

4 Put the quark in a clean food processor. Add the eggs, one at a time, blending well after each is added. Add the halva mixture and stir to combine.

5 Pour the filling over the crust and bake in the oven for 1 hour and 20 minutes. Leave the cake to cool completely before decorating with crumbled chocolate halva to serve.

2 To make the pavlova, place the egg whites in the bowl of a stand mixer and beat on high speed until stiff peaks form.

While the machine is still running, gradually add the sugar in four batches, beating well between each addition until the sugar has dissolved. This will take 10–15 minutes.

3 Fold in the cornflour, half the cocoa powder and the vinegar until well combined. Gently stir through the remaining cocoa powder to create a swirl effect.

4 Using a large spoon, scoop the meringue onto the baking paper circle until the baking paper is covered. Smooth the top of the meringue, making a slight dip in the centre.

5 Place the meringue in the oven and immediately reduce the temperature to 120°C. Bake for 2 hours, until crisp and dry.

Turn the oven off and leave the meringue inside, with the door slightly ajar, to cool completely.

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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FOOD & DRINK • RECIPES

METHOD 1 To make the almond milk, drain and rinse the almonds. Combine them with the vanilla, date and 750 ml water in a blender. Blitz until smooth, then strain through a nut milk bag or fine-meshed sieve lined with muslin (cheesecloth).

Refrigerate until ready to use.

2 Preheat the oven to 175°C. Grease a 23 × 13 × 7 cm loaf tin with the oil spray and dust with flour.

3 In a large bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, 100 g of the sugar and 80 ml water until well blended. Set aside.

4 In another bowl, combine the flour and baking powder.

Marble Cake Serves 10 ˜ 12

R E C I P E S TA K E N F R O M

FEASTING

by Amanda Ruben (Hardie Grant, £25) Photography © Elisa Watson

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T

his is a foolproof cake guaranteed to please the whole family. Use the best-quality cocoa you can find, because it really does makes a difference. I’ve made this with almond milk so it’s dairy-free, but you can use full-cream milk in its place. We make our own almond milk at Miss Ruben – it’s easy and well worth the effort – but if using a storebought variety make sure it’s fresh, not from a carton.

INGREDIENTS • 450 g plain flour, plus extra for dusting • 60 g Dutch (unsweetened) cocoa powder • 500 g caster sugar • 2 teaspoons baking powder • 250 ml extra-virgin olive oil • 1 teaspoon natural vanilla extract • 5 cold eggs • fresh raspberries, to serve • Home-made almond milk • 155 g almonds, soaked overnight in cold water • dash of natural vanilla extract • 1 medjool date, stone removed • olive oil spray, for greasing

5 In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, beat 400 g of the sugar, the oil and vanilla until well combined. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating after each addition. Continue beating for another 3–5 minutes, until the mixture is thick and pale.

6 Stop the mixer and add one-third of the flour mixture. Beat on low speed until just blended. Stop the mixer again and add 125 ml of the almond milk. Beat until just blended. Repeat with another one third of the flour, another 125 ml of the almond milk, and then the remaining flour, beating the mixture after each addition.

7 Add three cups of the batter to the cocoa mixture and mix well. Pour one-third of the plain batter into the prepared tin and top with one third of the chocolate batter. Continue adding the batter in layers until both mixtures are used.

8 Bake for 1 hour, or until a skewer inserted in the middle of the cake comes out clean.

9 Leave the cake to cool in the tin, then turn it out onto a platter. Serve with fresh raspberries.

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Mug

SHOTS

In anticipation of London Coffee Week, Absolutely goes in search of the best homemade espresso

By P E N D L E H A R T E

THE BEAN

 Hand-roasting beans in small batches is best for freshness.

Edinburgh-based Artisan Roasters offer a brilliant subscription service whereby they’ll send you a regular supply of super fresh, interesting, carefully sourced and roasted beans, tailored to whatever method of brew you prefer. It's also an effective education in coffee as each package comes with background information and tasting notes. artisanroast.co.uk

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It’s an effective education in coffee – each package comes with tasting notes

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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FOOD & DRINK • COFFEE

FINISHING TOUCH

Latte art

L

THE GRIND

 It’s all very well choosing your beans carefully, but buying pre-ground means you lose out on significant flavour and freshness right away. Far better to buy the beans and grind them yourself – ideally using a burr rather than a blade grinder. A burr actually warms the beans to release the oils and results in a smoother, more consistent grind. Our deLonghi Dedica machine may take up a bit of counter space, but it’s an impressive bit of kit. Grind as much or as little as you need at once – one cup or several – and adjust the settings for espresso, pour over or French press.

Brilliantly, you can grind straight into the arm of deLonghi’s matching espresso machine. £150; delonghi.com

Far better to grind the beans yourself, ideally with a burr grinder

THE MACHINE

 The counterpart to deLonghi’s Dedica, the matching espresso machine, does a brilliant job and takes up very little space – but if you want an even more professional experience, Sage’s Barista machine offers an integrated bean-to-cup experience with a very stylish look.

atte art is huge. At the annual international championship congress, the level of detail in these foamy fancies is improbable, with symmetrical swirl designs leading on to elaborate striped zebras, faces, florals and even unicorns. At Origin in Shoreditch, they offer beginners classes (though you’re unlikely to come away with a unicorn). I’m here to learn and there’s a great sense of fun radiating from Yvonne, who takes latte art very seriously, in a humorous way. To begin with, we are aiming to create a heart, and the prep is important. ‘Hold the jug at 12 o’clock, and the wand at 3 o’clock.

Remember to purge it first,’ she says.

Frothing the milk properly is the first step – we’re aiming for foam, not froth. The type of jug is important – a larger one for foaming, a smaller one for pouring, and you need to swirl and tap it quite a lot. Then it’s the pour, which is where the real skill lies. ‘First you pour it high and slow, and then tilt the cup and touch it with the rim of the jug,’ she says, effortlessly pouring a perfect heart. My first attempt is rubbish.

An alarming amount of waste later and I have the semblance of a heart.

Since then I have invented my own method, which I call accidental latte art. Sometimes it’s a bird, sometimes a flower, often a decorative flourish.

The trick is to identify it after the event. I’m no pro, but my coffees are much prettier than they were before.

origincoffee.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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FOOD & DRINK • REVIEW

ABSOLUTELY eats out…

“The sticky toffee pudding is a perfect balance of light golden sponge and sticky caramel glaze”

The Grill at the Clayton Hotel A chic hotel restaurant with a British fusion twist

By GEORGIE RUTHERFORD

T

he Grill Restaurant at the Clayton Hotel might not be an obvious choice when it comes to dining in Chiswick.

However, the hotel has been newly refurbished so we felt it was time we visited.

Upon arrival, we head for a welcome drink at the plush Globe Bar. My Beefeater gin with Fever Tree tonic arrives in a tumbler with a mountain of ice – just how I like it. My dining partner treats herself

70

to a mojito, one of their signature cocktails, which is perfectly sweet and minty.

After moving to the restaurant, we take a look at the menu, which offers a range of classic British fusion favourites and speciality charcoal grills. To start, we order the Scottish smoked salmon with soda bread, crème fraiche and dill, and tomato mozzarella salad with basil and a balsamic dressing. Both dishes are deliciously fresh and generously portioned.

For mains, we order the rib

FOOD British fusion favourites

DECOR Newly furnished with a modern twist

PRICE A three course meal for two with drinks £80

VERDICT A great hotel for locals to visit for fantastic food

eye steak with peppercorn sauce and the garlic tiger prawns with Cajun spiced rice. The steak is cooked beautifully, served on a bed of watercress and accompanied by gloriously large Portobello mushrooms and a bowl of chunky chips. The tiger prawns, meanwhile, are served on skewers and seasoned to perfection.

For dessert, we indulgently decide to share a sticky toffee pudding and a chocolate fondant.

Both dishes are dusted with icing sugar and a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The sticky toffee pudding is a perfect balance of light golden sponge and sticky caramel glaze with a rich buttery scent. The fondant is equally delicious with a fluffy texture and soft gooey middle.

Overall, the restaurant has a fantastically mellow vibe and the staff are extremely attentive. I would highly recommend Chiswick locals to pop into The Clayton for some top quality food in a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere. ● CLAYTON HOTEL 626 Chiswick High Road, W4 claytonhotelchiswick.com

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Room for new ideas. bulthaup b Solitaire

Our Mayfair showroom is now open following a complete refurbishment as we celebrate thirty years on Wigmore Street. bulthaup Mayfair 37 Wigmore Street London, W1U 1PP Tel. 020 7495 3663 www.mayfair.bulthaup.com

bulthaup Holland Park 142–144 Holland Park Avenue London, W11 4UE Tel. 020 7822 2800 www.hollandpark.bulthaup.com

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GIN COCKTAIL AT THE GINSTITUTE

Drink UP

Absolutely has travelled near and far in search of the best gin experiences, from the west London home of the Sipsmith Distillery, all the way to The Cotswolds Distillery in the heart of England

By M I R I A M C A R E Y A N D H E L E N B R O W N

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FOOD & DRINK • GIN EXPERIENCES

HOTEL ROOM AT THE GINSTITUTE

The Ginstitute

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tanding proud in the heart of Notting Hill, on the corner of Portobello and just a stone’s throw from Hugh Grant’s famous bookshop, The Distillery is a four-floor mecca for the discerning drinker in west London’s most vibrant neighbourhood. The first of its kind in the UK, the working distillery features two bars, a private dining room and three guest lodgings, as well as being home to the internationallyrenowned Portobello Road gin and the critically acclaimed gin-blending experience, The

Ginstitute. On entering through the Talbot Road door, guests of The Experience are welcomed with a Tom Collins cocktail and greeted by the evening’s gin instructor.

The first hour is a lesson in the long and disruptive history of the drink, hailed Mother’s Ruin and banned in Britain at one time. From the drink’s medicinal origins to the gin craze which gripped the country for 200 years and into the renaissance the tipple is enjoying today, the engaging instructor leaves no stone unturned in this education, which is delivered as the audience enjoys a G&T. From there, it’s into The Still Room where guests get a tutored tasting and nosing of botanicals, before trying their hand at creating their own bespoke blend.

The Gin Instructor assists in blending the various distilled botanicals together to create a completely unique recipe for each guest, a full bottle of which will be taken away to enjoy at home. Once each guest has created and received their blend of gin, they are invited back downstairs for one last drink, where they’ll also receive a bottle of Portobello Road Gin. • The Ginstitute Experience, £120 per person 186 Portobello Road, W11; the-distillery.london

GIN TASTING AT THE GINSTITUTE

“In pairs, you will create your own bespoke gin, using ingredients you’ve brought in yourself”

Half Hitch Distillery

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teeped in a history that harks back to 1869, Camden Lock once stood at the heart of London’s gin scene. Once upon a time, you couldn’t move for the distilleries and warehouses that were packed in amongst the Lock’s cobbled streets. A gin train was even employed to ship produce over to global buyers. Today, gin is back in its north London home by way of Half Hitch, who set up shop in Camden Lock 50 years after the last of the original distilling warehouses could be found. They are breathing life back into the industry, not least with their award-winning gin, but also with fun, bespoke gin-making classes every weekday evening at their micro-distillery in Camden Market. Over the course of an hour, Half Hitch distiller Chris will teach you all about the gin-making process using a modern still - make sure to take notes, because it will then be your turn to try your hand. In pairs, you’ll create your own bespoke gin, using ingredients you’ve brought in yourself. Anything from fruit to botanicals works wonderfully to flavour the gin, or if you’re feeling adventurous, give something more daring a try. It’s totally up to you - the only rule is no chilli - and you’ll leave with 100ml of your bespoke blend, along with 100ml of Half Hitch.

• £60 per person, tickets available via designmynight.com Half Hitch Microdistillery | Unit 53 Camden Lock Place, NW1; halfhitch.london A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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AVAILABLE NATIONWIDE IN WAITROSE, MAJESTIC, 31DOVER.COM AND UK DUTY FREE

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FOOD & DRINK • GIN EXPERIENCES THE BAR AT THE SIPSMITH DISTILLERY

The Cotswold Distillery

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he Cotswolds Distillery has been proudly making Outstanding Natural Spirits since 2014 and is rated one of the top visitor attractions in the Cotswolds.

Visitors can see their award-winning spirits and liqueurs being made at the small but perfectly formed distillery. Each tour finishes up in the cosy tasting room where you can sample their whole range: from the Cotswolds Single Malt Whisky to the Cotswolds Dry Gin, a richly aromatic twist on a classic London Dry gin made with lavender from the beautiful farm at nearby Snowshill.

Sipsmith Distillery

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he Sipsmith Distillery tour is the perfect mix of informative and fun. Four hours in total, the tour comprises a brief history and tour, generous tasting time and a three course meal at Charlotte’s Bistro.

The Chiswick distillery is so small and compact (and situated on a residential road) it would be easy to miss. Looking around, the distillery is not much more than a glorified, albeit stylish, shed containing a bar, laboratory and four copper stills named Prudence, Patience, Constance and Cygnet.

The former is named after Gordon Brown’s favourite word during the recession.

During an incredibly informed and wellpresented whirlwind tour, we cover the country and brand’s rich gin history. When Sipsmith first launched in 2007, fewer than 300 litres of gin production was classed as moonshine, but two years of lobbying resulted in a change in the law.

The resounding highlight was the opportunity to sample limited edition varieties of Sipsmith, including lemon drizzle, maple syrup and sloe gin, usually reserved for members of the Sipsmith Sipping Society.

The cherry on top of the gin and tonic was the take home gift, a bottle of Sipsmith Gin, a lime and a tonic - “for the road”.

- Add all of the ingredients to a shaker - Add ice and shake - Pour into a Collins or highball glass - Top with tonic water - Garnish with a lemon wheel

• Sipsmith Distillery Tour, £85 per person 83 Cranbrook Road, W4; sipsmith.com

Silent Pool Gin, £37; available from silentpooldistillers.com

• Visit their website to book a tour cotswoldsdistillery.com GIN MASTERCLASS AT THE COTSWOLD DISTILLERY

Silent Pool Gin Aperitif INGREDIENTS 40ml Silent Pool Gin 20ml Tio Pepe fino 25ml lemon juice 20ml 1:1 sugar syrup 2 dashes orange bitters

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METHOD

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40 Years experience “A level of service I believe goes above and beyond.

Thank you Roger!” Louise, W4 • Fully qualified installation professionals • Project managed - design conception to completion • CAD (Computer Aided Design) • A proud member of the KBSA

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Call us on: 0208 742 2236 or visit our showroom: 20 Fauconberg Road, Chiswick, London W4 3JY

www.osborne-interiors.co.uk

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FOOD & DRINK • GREEN LIVING

EAT Green Sustainability is a hot topic for 2018. Learn how to incorporate it into your routine with Absolutely’s guide to mindful food shopping

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SHOP SEASONALLY

ating seasonally is an easy way to make your weekly shop more sustainable. Firstly, it reduces the energy needed to grow and transport crops, which lowers the associated CO2 emissions. Secondly, seasonal food is fresher and tends to be more nutritious and flavoursome, so it’s a win-win situation.

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PLAN YOUR MEALS

ood waste is something we are all guilty of, but it can be a hard habit to shift.

Putting a bit of forethought into your meals will help you to create a more concise shopping list and in turn allow you to shop more efficiently and reduce the amount you throw in the bin.

Plus, meal planning will also save you money (no more overprices packaged sandwiches).

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GO PACKAGING-FREE

upermarkets love wrapping their produce in copious layers of plastic packaging.

Instead, try choosing loose vegetables over ones that are individually cellophanewrapped. Some stores, such as Planet Organic, also offer refillable produce, which lets you bring your own containers and restock cupboard staples without adding to the plastic pile. It'll also look more attractive on your shelf.

“Food waste is something we are all guilty of, but it can be a hard habit to shift”

B y J OY M O N T G O M E R Y

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TRY MEAT-FREE MONDAY

ccording to the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations, the livestock sector is one of the top two or three most significant contributors to environmental problems at every scale, from local to global. Scary stuff. Meat-Free Mondays is an initiative set up by Paul, Mary and Stella McCartney to raise awareness of the environmental and health benefits of having at least one meat-free day each week.

A small change with a big impact.

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BE CAR CONSCIOUS

t may sound obvious, but ditching the car for the weekly food shop is a great way to boost your green points. If walking isn’t an option, try carpooling with friends or combining your shopping trip with other activities which require a car.

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ARCH 5 ARCH ARCH 5 KEW 5 UNDER BRIDGE UNDER UNDER KEW KEW BRIDGE BRIDGE EMAIL:INFO@KEWSTONE.COM EMAIL:INFO@KEWSTONE.COM EMAIL:INFO@KEWSTONE.COM WWW.KEWSTONE.COM WWW.KEWSTONE.COM WWW.KEWSTONE.COM

RETAIL: £20,000 TRADE: £8,000

EVERYONE CAN BUY AT TRADE

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INTERIORS Interiors Notes 80 • Designer Yoko Kloeden at home

JOIE DE VIVRE YVES DELORME

The Yves Delorme style, a blend of tradition and invention, embodies a facet of the French “art de vivre” and offers the experience of an everyday luxury. uk.yvesdelorme.com

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INTERIORS NOTES

Ideas, designs and styles for your home

By PENDLE HARTE

African Rhythm EVA SONAIKE

Eva Sonaike's new Aburi Rise collection has a bohemian colour scheme, capturing the calm and tropical feel of Ghana with a colourful palette of lush greens, warm pinks, deep purples and rich blues. evasonaike.com

SPRING FEVER FARROW & BALL

Spring is particularly spring-like at Farrow & Ball this year, with a palette of dusky greens and oral wallpapers. Pictured is the maximalist Helleborus paper, which celebrates growth and rejuvenation. farrow-ball.com

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INTERIORS • NOTES O

F AV UR

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O EBO

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OHH DEER Palm Springs notebook, £4.95 ohhdeer.com

LIGHT FANTASTIC URBAN COTTAGE INDUSTRIES

EDITOR’S PICK

PAPIER TIGRE A5 carnet, £11 papersmiths.co.uk

BASE COLOUR MINIFORMS

Made in Italy, the Shiko Magnum king size bed is designed by studio E-ggs for Italian brand Miniforms. The frame and legs are solid wood with a minimal, chic style, whilst the gently rounded headboad is deep and luxuriously comfortable. gomodern.co.uk

Design your own pendant light by choosing cable, fitting, bulb and switch, all from a huge variety of options. Customise it to suit your taste and your home. We like the green flex and the bronze lamp holder. urbancottageindustries.com

PAPIER Personalised notebooks, £12.99 papier.com

MINI MODERNS Set of two notebooks, £10 minimoderns.com

TRUE BLUE LE CREUSET

THE SCHOOL OF LIFE Writing as therapy journals, £15 theschooloflife.com

New to the Le Creuset palette are these springlike blues and greens, worth starting an entirely new collection for. lecreuset.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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Sweetpea & Willow LO VE T H E WAY Y O U L I VE OUR CLEARANCE SALE IS NOW ON WITH PLENTY OF ITEMS AVAILABLE FOR SPEEDY DELIVERY!

CUTHBERT BOUTIQUE BED HOUSE VELVET - SOFT TEAL MORE FABRICS AVAILABLE!

CHESHIRE DINING TABLE AVAILABLE IN 200, 240 AND 280CM WANT A BESPOKE SIZE? GIVE US A CALL!

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FREDERICK SOFA LUXURY LINEN - ZINC 1000’S OF FABRICS!

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CURIOUSA & CURIOUSA

INTERIORS • SHOPPING

Snowdrop pendant, £POA curiousa.co.uk

YVES DELORME Cyclope cushion in menthe, £65; uk.yvesdelorme.com

KAHLER Omaggio vase medium, £39.90 skandium.com

JO MALONE Green tomato leaf candle, £45 jomalone.co.uk

HOUSE OF HACKNEY Paradisa cushion, £165 houseofhackney.com

EDITOR’S PICK

JONATHAN ADLER Large stacked acrylic egg, £298; jonathanadler.com

HABITAT Euan floor lamp in yellow, £225 habitat.co.uk

CLARINS Eau des Jardins, £36 clarins.co.uk

HABITAT

SPRING FORWARD

Jambi gardne chair, £195 habitat.co.uk

All you need for a fresh start

HAY

By PENDLE HARTE

Lamino easy chair, £1,630 skandium.com

SEEDBALL Mum's Meadow Mix, £5.99 seedball.co.uk

ATRAFLOOR

LIBERTY

Hawaii vinyl flooring, £59 per metre atrafloor.com

Rajasthani Quilted Iris Throw, £50; libertylondon.com

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CHANGING PLACES Absolutely admires interior designer Yoko Kloeden’s major renovation of her three-storey family home P h o t o g r a p h y YAY O I / Y O K O K L O E D E N . C O M

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INTERIORS • NOTES

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his Victorian semi detached house had been covered with ivy for 30 years and internally it was a patchwork of DIY building works done by the previous owners.

The project included demolishing the poorly-done ground floor extension, gutting and stripping the entire house, rebuilding the rear extension to make a large family area, adding two rooms to the loft level as the second floor and refurbishing the whole house including the exterior and the garden. With the help of Ampersand Architecture, the house was converted to a spacious four bedroom, two bathroom house with a large family area and a home office.

The cool colour palettes were chosen to keep the mood (and the children) calm and serene, while robust and repairable natural materials were chosen to withstand busy family life.

HALLWAY

An entrance hallway sets the mood of the house. Having searched for wall coverings that represent the house’s low key yet elegant aesthetics, Yoko chose clay plaster for its tactile texture, calm appearance, easy maintenance and environmental credentials.

It also gives a nod to her Japanese background, as clay plastering has long been used in traditional houses in Japan.

The hexagon floor tiles are a contemporary take on traditional encaustic tiles and made of porcelain to withstand daily foot and buggy traffic. The joint between the hexagon tiles and the herringbone oak flooring of the open plan area was worked out on site between the designer and the contractor.

“Cool colour palettes were chosen to keep the mood – and the children – serene”

LOUNGE

The originally enclosed hallway was opened up and now leads to an open plan family area that accommodates a lounge, kitchen, dining and children’s play/homework zone. Different shades of blue and green accent the room including Moroccan hand glazed tile cladding on the chimney breast.

The colours are inspired by Yoko’s Bitossi Rimini Blue pottery collection.

KITCHEN

When the family bought the house, the rear extension had to be demolished and rebuilt.

A large rooflight was installed over the kitchen, flooding the room with natural light despite it being in the middle of the house.

The kitchen doors, drawers and cover panels with brass recess were designed by Yoko to fit IKEA carcasses and crafted by her skilled joiner. A slab of Carrara marble was chosen for the splashback to glam up the kitchen and worktops are Silestone in a similar shade, chosen for its durability.

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INTERIORS • NOTES

DINING/ CHILDREN’S ZONE

The original rear extension was in poor condition and separated into three disctinct areas with the original exterior walls still in place. Yoko demolished it and turned it into one large open plan area with a dining and children’s zone at the back. Black Crittall-style steel doors were chosen to be features by themselves while adding rhythm and impact in framing the garden view. The exterior is brought inside by extending the original brick wall indoors. ‘I use natural materials wherever possible as I love how they age. The key to usisng natural materials in tough environment (aka young children) is to embrace their imperfections and choose the ones that are easy to repair,’ says Yoko.

HOME OFFICE

The front room was closed off to create a home office. Black is used as a common thread throughout the house while it is used here in a big expanse to a dramatic effect.

GARDEN

Previously, the garden was cluttered with overgrown bushes and trees and the previous owner’s DIY decking; it could only be accessed from a small side door.

Consequently, it was never used. The fullheight Crittall-style doors were installed to lead out to the walled garden and Yoko designed a built in bench. Now it is a perfect entertainment spot for her family and friends.

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ALL ALLASPECTS ASPECTSOF OFHOME HOMEREFURBISHMENT REFURBISHMENT KITCHEN, KITCHEN,BATHROOMS BATHROOMS&&BEDROOMS BEDROOMS Renovating RenovatingInteriors InteriorsSince Since1985 1985 www.bellainteriors.co.uk www.bellainteriors.co.uk T 020 T 020 8332 8332 9898 9898 / F/ 020 F 020 8332 8332 9777 9777 / E/ sales@bellainteriors.co.uk E sales@bellainteriors.co.uk / 137 / 137 Kew Kew Road Road Richmond.

Richmond.

Surrey Surrey TW9 TW9 2PN. 2PN.

JANUARY SALE – SEE IN STORE FOR DETAILS

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INTERIORS • PRODUCTS MARIMEKKO Sukat wine glass, £32 marimekko.com

LASVIT Otto glassware collection lasvit.com

DARTINGTON Celebrate wine glass pair, £50 dartington.co.uk

GURASU Coloured crystal wine goblets, £185 for six gurasu.co.uk

WATERFORD Lismore balloon wine glass, £60 waterford.co.uk

JOHN LEWIS Leckford floral wine glass, £8 johnlewis.com

EDITOR’S PICK

CRYSTAL MAZE Absolutely’s favourite wine glasses

By P E N D L E H A R T E

IITTALA Lempi stacking wine glasses, £21 for two iittala.com

LSA Wine goblets, £100 for eight lsa-international.com

DARTINGTON Harris crystal wine glass, £48 dartington.co.uk

LSA Polka champagne saucer, £34 for four lsa-international.com

DARTINGTON Stemless wine glass pack of six, £48 dartington.co.uk

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True

CO LO U R S Bright colours are cheerful, mood-enhancing and stylish.

We should embrace them in our homes

By P E N D L E H A R T E

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INTERIORS • COLOUR

LITTLE ITALY

MINIFORMS  Contemporary Italian design is known for its colour and Miniforms' beautiful Kiki pendant light comes in six soft matte hues. The ceramic shade works as a distinctive feature light as well as in a group; designer Paolo Cappello is an awardwinning talent with a background in industrial design and his work includes clever tech accessories such as cabinets with in-built speakers.

Everything in colour, naturally. gomodern.com

FLOOR SHOW

ATRAFLOOR  Can't decide what to have on your floor? Atrafloor's range will simply add to your distress. This clever range of made-to-order vinyl comes in a range of patterns and colours ranging from faux Moroccan tile to bold floral prints to graphic repeat patterns. All in a huge range of colours, of course. We like this Nico Orange look. atrafloor.com

Why be afraid of colour? And who wrote the rules about clashing shades?

Do whatever feels right to you

PANEL DISCUSSION

SHUTTERLY FABULOUS  Shutters needn't match your walls, doors or window frames, though of course they can. Contrasting colours work brilliantly for shutters, and who says they all need to be the same shade? Shutterly Fabulous has a colour match service and promises an 'almost infininte' range of colour possibilities. shutterlyfabulous.com

LINE OF BEAUTY

JONATHAN ADLER  Jonathan Adler is a man of many colours. Originally a potter, his design work now takes in far more than ceramics, stretching into textiles, furniture and decorative objects of all kinds. And in everything, there's colour. This Nouvelle cabinet is both classic and colourful with its unepected palette and graphic look. uk.jonathanadler.com

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INTERIORS • DESIGN

The Legacy Ozoo desk designed by Marc Berthier for Roche Bobois, 2018

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esigned by Marc Berthier for Roche Bobois in 1968, the iconic Ozoo desk returns to the brand’s permanent catalogue 50 years later. Typical of the revolutionary techniques and materials developed in the 1960s, the design has been reissued in five original colours.

A witness of the 1960s manufacturing innovations, the Ozoo desk symbolised the modern use of unconventional materials in furniture design and the rise of a forwardthinking approach to distribution. Plastic widened the scope of possibilities in terms of design, production and final usage of the product.

Initially conceived for children, the Ozoo collection included small desks, beds, and storage units. Upon its great success, the range expanded to coffee and cocktail tables. Moulded in one piece and coated with a bright colourful gelcoat, the Ozoo desk marked the transition from classic furniture to a more playful period in interior design.

Marc Berthier said: 'The Ozoo desk and chair are emblematic pieces from 1960s. I

“The Ozoo desk marked a transition to a more playful period in interior design” am thrilled that Roche Bobois decided to reissue them - their timeless shape, function and aesthetic are well-suited for our contemporary lifestyle. Their revolutionary design - one single piece like a monolith - made the production easier and less expensive, which allowed Roche Bobois to distribute them more widely.'

‘This model has become a landmark throughout the history of design, it is good to be reminded of who created it,’ said Nicolas Roche, collections director at Roche Bobois.

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STYLE AND SUBSTANCE

Discover products and services from the best local businesses

WALTON BATHROOMS Visit Walton's showrooms to see the latest bathroom styles. In-house designers will start with an informal chat about your requirements and budget, arrange a visit to your home and then design the bathroom or cloakroom of your dreams with your choices in mind.

The Hersham Centre, Molesey Road, KT12 4HL Showroom: 01932 224 784 . Internet and Contract sales: 020 8481 7970 waltonbathrooms.co.uk

PULLMAN EDITIONS PULLMAN EDITIONS designs striking original limited-edition posters that capture the enduring appeal of Art Deco. Their newly-commissioned posters feature glamorous winter sports and summer resorts around the world, as well as the world’s greatest historic automobiles. Evoking memories of holidays and special occasions, their modern take on the Art Deco classics provide an affordable way to decorate your home and also make super original gifts.

There are over 100 designs available to view and buy online at pullmaneditions.com. Priced at ÂŁ395 each.

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BELLA INTERIORS Bella Interiors offer a one-stop service for all your kitchen, bedroom and bathroom needs. They feature brands such as Miele, Neff and Schroder. Whether you would like to update with new appliances or a complete design and build service, visit the showroom for advice on the perfect solutions for your home.

137 Kew Road, TW9; 020 8332 9898 bellainterior.co.uk

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ABSOLUTELY • PROMOTION

ANDREW MACINTOSH KITCHENS

DANIEL STORES Located in the heart of Chiswick, Daniel has remained a family-run store for over 100 years. Renowned for its quality and service, it holds a Royal Warrant from Her Majesty The Queen. Discover its range of beautiful furniture and accessories for your home.

396 Chiswick High Road, W4 5TF; 020 8747 8886 danielstores.co.uk

Celebrating 25 years of trading in Chiswick, and their recently opened Marble Arch showroom, Andrew Macintosh Kitchens offer a unique, contemporary style at affordable prices. With two ranges of German made kitchens, free design and an in-house fitting service, a wide range of budgets can be catered for.

464 Chiswick High Road, W4 5TT 0208 995 8333 andrewmacintoshfurniture.co.uk

CURTAIN CALL For all your interior inspirations visit their redesigned and extended showroom displaying the largest Luxaflex design studio in London. Featuring motorised blinds nestled amongst nearly new curtains and a huge choice of fabrics to be made to measure for curtains and blinds.

52 Friars Stile Road, Richmond, TW10 6NQ 020 8332 6250; curtain-call.co.uk

AZCO INTERIORS

MAXLIGHT Maxlight’s architectural glazing helps you to see even more of your family, friends, pets and those all-important seasonal treats. Clever extensions and interior designs create more open spaces, yet require glass, to bring the outside in and for you to see even more of what you love. Image: French+Tye. Unit 29-32, Victoria Industrial Estate, W3 6UU; 020 8896 0700 sales@maxlight.co.uk maxlight.co.uk

Provide a comprehensive design and installation service from concept to project completion.

Oktawia and her team’s consultative approach and experience take your taste and lifestyle and make your dream home a reality. Providing high quality fittings and exceptional service - all at affordable prices.

For more information call 0208 892 9906 or visit 94 Heath Road, Twickenham, TW1 4BW or email sales@azcointeriors.co.uk.

ARLINGTON KITCHENS Arlington Kitchens has over 18 years experience in designing, sourcing and installing the very best modern and traditional kitchens at highly competitive prices. From design to completion, the Arlington team will ensure that you get your dream kitchen by providing a wide variety of options and advice – and above all, honesty.

48 High Street, Hampton Hill, TW12 1PD; 020 8614 5757; arlingtonkitchens.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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Style and Substance

How much for a four-bedroom Victorian semi-detached house in London?

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ictorian homes will never go out of fashion. They are beautiful in design with their bay and sash windows, intricate high ceilings, ornate fireplaces, patterned tiles and stained glass windows.

They are also very good at standing the test of time, making them ideal family homes and investments for the future.

You should always seek a full building survey before buying any new home, but to start find out the rough guide price for the area, before putting in an offer.

In the sought out location of Dulwich, the guide is between £825,000 and £1.8 million, the family home featured comes in at £1,795,000 and benefits from a private garden and nearby schools.

Further east in Blackheath, the guide price is slightly lower, between £600,000 and £1.5 million.

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S O U T H WA R K

his is a rare opportunity to acquire a four bedroom, semi-detatched family home in one of the most sought after locations in Dulwich Village.

Set on the corner of Court Lane and Desenfans Road and benefitting from a private garage, this elegant house offers excellent entertaining and family space with a two reception rooms, an eat-in kitchen and landscaped garden. Upstairs features four bedrooms and two bathrooms (one ensuite).

The loft has already been converted in to a spacious bedroom.

This home is wonderfully situated in the heart of the Village, perfect for all of the amentities and school catchments.

Court Lane is one of the most prestigious addresses in Dulwich Village due to its proximity to both Dulwich Village and Dulwich Park. Sought-after state schools are on the doorstep, as are world-renowned independent options such as James Allen's Girls School, Alleyn's School and Dulwich College.

More information from Knight Frank on 020 3757 6230 or knightfrank.com

2 In Bromley, the price falls to between £700,000 and £950,000. The Victorian semidetached featured comes in at £850,000 and has excellent transport links.

Finally, to buy a Victorian property in Newham, you will need to drum up between £550,000 and £975,000. For the lower end of the spectrum, you can buy the Purple Bricks property, benefitting from spacious rooms.

“You should always seek a full building survey before buying any home, but to start find out the guide price for the area”

BLACKHEATH £ 1 , 5 0 0,0 0 0 F R E E H O L D

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GREENWICH

T

his property is in excellent decorative order with period features, high ceilings, feature marble fireplaces, cornicing, sash windows, feature radiators, solid oak Herringbone flooring and gas fired central heating.

The accommodation comprises a large reception, a stunning kitchen with luxury applicances, an island, breakfast bar, skylights, bi-folding doors to the garden and a quaint reading corner ideal for small children. To the rear is a 60ft south facing garden. This home is perfect for a new family and immediate viewings are highly recommended.

For more information, go to winkworth.co.uk or call 020 8852 0999

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DISCOVERMORE

Embracing an innovative, modern approach whilst keeping traditional values at its core, Kew House School takes an exciting stance on 21st century education. With state-of-the-art facilities, a broad curriculum and excellent pastoral care, Kew House is a place where you would want to be – a place of learning and discovery, laughter and friendship.

Open Days Wed 2nd May th November 1stat /79:15am (9.30am/ 9.30am) Mon 25th June at 9:15am

th st November (7.00pm/ 9.30am) Fri 29th June15 at /21 9:15am

November 29th (9.30am)

Please book your place online.

Currently recruiting into the Sixth Form with a new Sixth Form Centre opening in 2017.

T: 0208 742 2038 E: info@kewhouseschool.com W: www.kewhouseschool.com An independent co-educational senior school for students aged 11-18 in West London

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PROPERTY • FEATURE

2

3

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BECKENHAM

WEST HAM

£ 8 5 0,0 0 0

£ 5 5 0,0 0 0 G U I D E P R I C E

~ FH are pleased to offer this

K

BROMLEY

four-bedroom, Victorian semidetached house, which is ideally located for both Clock House and Kent House Stations.

The property comprises an open-plan lounge, an extended kitchen and breakfast room. On the first floor there is a family bathroom and an en-suite to the master bedroom on the second level. Additional benefits include off-street parking and a garden. Currently for sale with KFH, go to kfh.co.uk

~

NEWHAM

4

T

his period property offers an abundance of space and light throughout and comprises of a large entrance hall, two reception rooms with double doors, a large modern fitted kitchen with bay windows, a further utility area and guest cloakroom on the ground floor. On the first floor there are four spacious bedrooms and a modern fitted family bathroom.

For more information from Purple Bricks, book a viewing today on 0800 810 8008 or visit purplebricks.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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KIDS & EDUCATION

STREETS AHEAD

MARC JACOBS Daring designs with cool credentials defines Marc Jacobs' SS18 for tots.

Think skater chic with an 80s vibe. childrensalon.com

Small Talk 99 · Education: the importance of a school's building 101 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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Excellence in independent education for rising 3-13 year olds

2018

OPEN MORNINGS May and October

You are warmly invited to come and explore our fantastic school on the South Somerset/ Dorset border, including our new boarding facilities and our Music School on the edge of the woods.

Rated ‘EXCELLENT’ in every category in our latest ISI inspection.

To book your place, please contact our Admissions Secretary, Nola, on 01460 72051 or email admissions@perrotthill.com

Top achieving independent school in the South West - ranked by 2017 exam results (The Sunday Times Schools Guide 2018, Parent Power, Nov. 2017).

Perrott Hill Nor th Perrott Somerset TA18 7SL

ST MARY’S CALNE

www.perrotthill.com @perrotthill

A Leading Independent Boarding & Day School For Girls Aged 11-18

/perrotthillschool Contact

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admissions@stmaryscalne.org

01249 857200

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CURTAIN CALL “One school, two buildings, great teaching, and tip top facilities.”

The Good Schools Guide

The Study is a leading prep school situated in the heart of Wimbledon Village. We identify and nurture each girl’s unique academic, creative and sporting skills in a caring and supportive community.

INSPIRED INTERIORS Our redesigned and extended showroom is now open, incorporating a large Luxaflex design studio showing the latest motorised blinds, nestled alongside nearly new curtains and a huge choice of fabrics to be made to measure as curtains and blinds

For further details and to book a school visit, contact Jane Davis on 020 8947 6969 www.thestudyprep.co.uk Registered Charity No. 271012

Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5.30pm • Sat 10am-6pm Evenings by appointment 52 Friars Stile Road, Richmond, Surrey TW10 6NQ 020 8332 6250 • curtaincall@blueyonder.co.uk

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We welcome enquires about our scheme of assistance with fees for girls aged 7+.

Preparatory School for girls aged four to eleven

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KIDS & EDUCATION • NOTES SHOP R EV I EW

Pigs and Pennies KAHLER

Kähler Design is adding three new animal money boxes to the range: a pig, a duck and an ostrich, all based on original shapes from the brand's extensive archive. We love the pig, £39.90. kahlerdesign.com

SMALL TALK A piggy bank, a rabbit, a monkey and more Scandinavian influence

NORDIC NIPPERS V& A M U S E U M O F C H I L D H O O D

EDITOR’S PICK

30 March-2 September Century of the Child exhibition explores the influence of kids on some of the best-loved Nordic designs, from BRIO to LEGO. There’s a wide range of activities for the whole family to enjoy.

vam.ac.uk

veja

BOBBY RABBIT KIDS

I

t's rare for a shop to surprise you with each new visit, but somehow Bobby Rabbit does just that. The store’s expertly chosen range includes pretty much all you need to create the nursery of your dreams, from designled kids furniture, textiles and wall art to beautiful books and toys. You’re almost certain to discover one or two items you’ve seen nowhere else online. Current crush: the store’s delectable collection of Banwood ‘First Go!’ balance bikes, complete with tasteful vintage stylings and cute wicker baskets – plus matching helmets in white, cream and assorted pastel shades.

The store’s success stems from the vision of founder Nicky King, who set out to showcase items that would appeal to adults as much as kids themselves. Inspired. bobbyrabbit.co.uk

TOT STYLE

KNIT WIT

H O L LYZ

MISHA + PUFF

Hollyz is the British born brand that’s practical, stylish, soft, warm – and beautifully designed. We love the cashmere and fi ne wool blend Alice cape that’s guaranteed to make any little girl feel like a princess.  hollyz.com

Crochet has made a comeback this spring, in clothing and decor.

Misha + Puff ’s hand knits are the most desirable with the fi nest attention to detail. The pretty faded candy colours and nostalgic styles are the prettiest we’ve seen.  misha-and-puff.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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CLEAN, TRADITIONAL ASIAN COOKING

Located at Notting Hill Gate, ULI offers a fresh, honest approach to Asian cuisine.

Natural limed oak, soft tones of blue and contemporary art give the restaurant a clean and informal look, highlighted by a hanging garden of pendant lights.

Our menu encompasses carefully selected dishes from Asia, all prepared using traditional Chinese, Thai, Malay and Singaporean disciplines. We believe that Asian food should be clean, fresh and healthy, and that each dish should always be made from scratch. We serve lunch and dinner all week, also available for takeaway.

5 L ADBROKE ROAD

NOTTING HILL

@ULILOND ON

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19/03/2018 15:51

EDUCATION • FOCUS

GRAND designs

The Executive Principal of Southbank International School on its exciting new campus

G

ood teachers amaze and inspire their students. In my opinion, school buildings should do the same. I’m not alone in that view.

Findings by the Royal Institute of British Architects in 2016 suggest that high quality school design, achieved through engagement with students and teachers, has a positive impact on both academic achievement and wellbeing.

For the best part of a year now staff at Southbank International School, one of London’s leading International Baccalaureate schools, have been involved not only in ensuring students receive an excellent education, but also in plans to open a dynamic and exciting additional school campus

for the new academic year.

We started this project to help with the growing demand for places at our Ofsted ‘outstanding’ school, but it is also an opportunity to consider how a building can help deliver the type of curriculum needed by today’s students.

We’ve been fortunate that our parent company Cognita – who have 68 schools across Europe, Latin America and South-East Asia – have already worked on similarly ambitious projects across the world. In Singapore, for example, the Early Learning Village is a brand new school that will host up to 2,000 children aged 18 months to 6 years. That campus was designed by award-winning Bogle Architects with input from Gary Moore, Professor of Environmental Behavioural studies at Sydney University. It includes specific architectural and design elements

We are creating a calm, cool and creative space

B y S I O B H A N M C G R AT H

that elevate the early learning experience; its facilities make it a model school for the future.

Back in London we have been fortunate to find a former BBC office and recording studio near Regent’s Park and our existing site. We have had to work hard and think creatively to ensure it provides what our students – many of whom go on to study at universities including Oxford, Cambridge, Yale and Harvard – want and need.

Surveys and workshops investigated what design elements would be required in an immersive campus. We challenged teams of architects, interior designers and even the innovation consultancy !What If? to turn all the creative ideas into a practical form.

The result is amazing. We are creating a calm and creative space that students will enjoy learning in. When we open the campus in August, the new building will fuse Scandinavian design ethos with intuitive learning technology.

Natural colours and materials will enhance a sense of space and calm.

Moss walls and wood panelling will channel a sense of the natural world. But this is not going to be a nature school with a W1 postcode.

When it comes to tech innovation, our classrooms will allow students to work with classmates from other global cities. Being able to have video links with schools in Hong Kong, Sao Paolo, Barcelona and Santiago will promote cultural understanding.

The building will comprise flexible, multi-use areas ranging from spacious classrooms to large communal areas. These will accompany quiet areas for small group and individual work, including study pods and semiprivate breakout areas.The top floor will house a common room with soft seating. In this way we continue to demonstrate our liberal ethos, academic excellence and the values of the International Baccalaureate.

S I O B H A N M C G R AT H is Executive Principal, Southbank International School, part of the Cognita Group of schools

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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RAVENSCOURT PARK

preparatory school

An Independent School for Boys and Girls aged 4-11 Quality of Pupils’ Achievement and Learning - “Excellent” Quality of Teaching - “Excellent”

Quality of Extra-curricular Provision - “Excellent” Quality of Pastoral Care - “Excellent”

Quality of Links with Parents - “Excellent”

Quality of Pupils’ Personal Development – “Excellent” ‘’The curriculum is excellent for all ages and abilities, and is expertly matched to meet the needs of the range of pupils in the school.’’

Independent Schools Inspectorate Report - March 2016

Open Mornings Open Mornings

9.15am Tuesday 14th November 3rd May at 9.15am 14th June at 9.15am 9.15am Thursday 18th January 2018 9.15am Thursday 1st February 2018

To register your attendance at one of our open mornings, To register your attendance at one of our open mornings, please phone 020 846 9153 or mail secretary@rpps.co.uk please phone 0208 846 9153 or mail secretary@rpps.co.uk

Ravenscourt Park Prep School 16 Ravenscourt Avenue, London W6 0SL

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KEW GREEN preparatory school

An Independent School for Boys and Girls aged 4-11 Quality of Pupils’ Achievement and Learning - “Excellent” Quality of Teaching - “Excellent”

Quality of Extra-curricular Provision - “Excellent” Quality of Pastoral Care - “Excellent”

Quality of Links with Parents - “Excellent”

Quality of Pupils’ Personal Development – “Excellent” “Pupils of all ages benefit from a rich and exciting curriculum.”

Independent Schools Inspectorate Report - July 2015

Open Morning Open Mornings

9.15am Wednesday, 15th 9.15am Wednesday 9thNovember May 9.15am Wednesday, 17th January 9.15am Wednesday 13th June2018 9.15am Wednesday, 7th February 2018

To register your attendance at one of our open mornings, To register your attendance at one of our open mornings, please phone 020 8948 5999 or mail secretary@kgps.co.uk please phone 020 8948 5999 or mail secretary@kgps.co.uk

Kew Green Preparatory School

Layton House, Ferry Lane, Kew Green, Richmond TW9 3AF

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19/03/2018 17:49

QUEEN of ARTS

Hampstead’s Fine Arts College has grown into a college for 13 to 19 year olds.

Absolutely meets its founder, Candida Cave B y A M A N DA C O N S TA N C E

W

hen Candida Cave’s old flatmate from her days at the Ruskin School of Art in Oxford asked if she would take on two boys she was tutoring, Cave discovered that she loved teaching. A year later, she established her own sixth-form art college with fellow artist Nicholas Cochrane.

That was in 1978. Forty years on, the Fine Arts College in Belsize Park is a north London institution – for those in the know, of course.

A collection of small buildings set around a cobbled courtyard behind iron gates on England’s Lane, it feels more like an artists’ collective than a school.

Cave says they consciously created a happy environment for students. “Condition, consciousness, calm – all these things help students learn,” she says. Places at FAC are hugely in demand and that’s without any advertising, ever.

Most students come for sixth form to take advantage of the art-based A-Levels on offer: Fine Art, Photography, Textiles and Graphics. Entry is non-selective:

The way education has gone in the past few years, arts subjects are being really squeezed

EDUCATION • FOCUS applicants need at least five GCSEs and all Year 12 and 13 students are expected to take four A-Levels.

FAC started offering GCSEs in 1994. “We realized a number of students weren’t happy at their schools so we started GCSEs,” says Cave. Since then there have been small Year 10 and Year 11 groups at the college.

And from this September, it will be expanding to take Year 9 students for the first time. This is a “natural development”, says Cave, who hopes that many will join “straight from prep school to give themselves a good sweep at GCSEs”.

The demand is definitely there.

“I genuinely believe there are a great number of 13 year olds who are very good at art, music, drama and the way education has gone in the past few years those subjects are being squeezed,” says Cave.

Looking at the list of 2017 leavers, it’s hard not to notice a certain Brooklyn Beckham. If the college has become known for anything in recent years, it’s the children of celebrities who have attended, from the Beckhams’ eldest to Rocco Ritchie and Anais Gallagher. But Cave will, quite rightly, not be drawn on her starry charges. “It’s a sensitive matter because I want the students to feel they have a normal education,” she says. Cave sold the college to Duke’s Education two years ago.

She has taken a step back from day-to-day teaching but still has a great appetite for leading the college.

Will the college take the logical step and become a full school, opening to children from Year 7?

Cave says: “I don’t know, let’s just wait and see.” But with the college going from strength to strength, nobody would be surprised.

FINE ARTS COLLEGE hampsteadfinearts.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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TRAVEL

CITY STYLE MOROCCO Grand architecture, rich culture, vibrant cuisine and stunning beaches; modernity meets the traditional in a trip of a lifetime to Morocco’s Atlantic coast

A Moroccan Adventure 106 • Beachside Bliss in Jamaica 112 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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THE MAZAGAN BEACH RESORT BOASTS IMPRESSIVE VIEWS OVER THE ATLANTIC SEA

“With sandy dunes, ocean views and a private beach, the resort already ticks all the boxes ” 106

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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TRAVEL • WANDERLUST

KID Here’s looking at you

Modernity meets the traditional in a trip to Morocco’s Atlantic coast

By H E L E N B R O W N

A

ll expectations I had of this trip to Morocco pivoted on the frazzling sights and sounds prevalent in film representations; labyrinthic streets, chaotic medinas, the air thick with heady spices and a rogue chicken picking it’s way between throngs of dusty, sandalled feet. Of course, not all parts of Morocco present themselves in this way; not least of all, El Jahida. Though not always top of the agenda on a trip to Morocco, this laid-back coastal town has a few gems to be discovered. Located just a little over 100km from Casablanca - more on this later - El Jahida transforms into a heaving holiday resort in the summer months, popular with Moroccan families. Blissfully, we explore the town in late September when the sun beats down on near-empty streets. Things to tick off include the El Jahida Port and the Unesco-listed 16th-century Cité Portugaise, an atmospheric chamber that was once used to store weaponry before becoming the setting for Orson Welles’ Othello. Of course the beach is also a pretty strong pull here and there is no where better situated to make the most of it than at the Mazagan Beach Resort.

Built in 2009, this award-winning, all-encompassing 5 star stay offers an authentic taste of Morocco with all the convenience and splendour expected of a luxury

hotel. With sandy dunes, ocean views and a private beach, the resort already ticks all the boxes. Marry this with 15 different restaurants and bars, a seemingly endless list of activities - from quad biking to camel riding - a casino and a renowned spa, the Mazagan really is a destination in itself. It’s the sort of place you won’t leave for the entirety of your trip. Do not go without booking a night in the resort’s beautiful outdoor restaurant, Al Firma. A shuttle bus will take you just five minutes from the main hotel to a clearing in the trees. Illuminated by the light of an open fire and decked out with traditional Moroccan dining furniture - floor poufs et al - here you’ll get a true taste of the country's cuisine. Imagine sitting cross-legged on the floor, sipping mint tea as belly dancers weave and writhe amongst you and your dinner companions; you couldn’t paint a more definitive image of traditional Morocco if you tried.

But if it’s the new you’re after, an hour’s drive up the coast will land you in Casablanca. What this coastal city lacks in architectural history, it makes up for in modern conveniences: restaurants, shopping and nightlife. The former French colony has a distinct charm, with its old walled Medina set like a pearl within a European-style city of wide boulevards and elegant Art Deco villas. To a romantic, Casablanca is a mythical place that exists in the 1942 film starring Ingrid Bergman and Humphrey Bogart. The reality is that the movie Casablanca was actually filmed on a soundstage in Hollywood and the real Casablanca A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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TRAVEL • WANDERLUST MAZAGAN OCEAN VIEW ROOMS OFFER SPLENDID VIEWS OF THE GOLF COURSE AND THE SEA

has long been overshadowed as a destination by the enchanting souks and exotic hippyness of Marrakech, the medieval splendours of Fez and the literary bohemianism of Tangier.

In contrast, Casablanca is a heady mix of architectural treasures that glisten with gold in the sunshine and dusty, old buildings. A sprawling city with a cosmopolitan flair, Casablanca is Morocco's largest city and most hectic port. As the country’s foremost business hub, the vibe is decidedly more urban, yet it sits on the country's Atlantic coast affording it the ocean views and open skies you expect of a holiday destination. The enormity of Casablanca, Morocco's most populous city, means visitors have to make an effort to discover its hidden details.

One of the richest historical aspects of Casablanca is the Art Deco architecture left by French colonialists throughout downtown Casablanca. The city is home to the second biggest Art Deco movement and boasts an eclectic mix of Moroccan architecture, French Art Deco and blend of the two, known as Mauresque. An absolute must-see for Art Deco enthusiasts is the Cinema Rialto on rue Mohammed Qorri. This particular neighborhood is rich with examples of Art Deco and is worth an afternoon stroll.

BASK IN THE SUN AT MAZAGAN WHICH OFFERS A STUNNING BEACH AS WELL AS POOLS

TAKE A BREAK FROM THE BUSY CITY CENTRE AT THE FOUR SEASON'S OUTDOOR POOL

the Islamic calendar can see Hassan II Mosque packed out with around 25,000 worshippers, with 80,000 more filling the courtyard.

A short car ride away, you'll find the elegant "new medina," Quartier Habous - a layout of Provençal-style squares and arches built by the French as a place for Muslims to live and trade. In this clean and inviting souk you’ll find anything from oil paintings to Art Deco statuettes.

Unlike the overflowing mazes in Fez and Marrakech, Casablanca’s central market is small and manageable. White-walled stalls with green clay roofs dotted with foliage make for Instagrammable backgrounds and a wealth of sequined slippers, rugs, brassware and leatherwork stalls jostle for position beneath the limestone arches.

When you're ready for a break - walking around in 30 degrees is thirsty work - head over to the Four Seasons Casablanca to for an afternoon tea that blows any other you’ve ever tried right out of the water. This is the country that does tea time like no other, so it’d be sacrilege to forgo this pastime favoured by the locals. Come three o’clock, the Four Seasons’

“These Moroccan delicacies are so irresistible you’ll want to swipe a tray for your plane ride home” Wander they alleyways west and you’ll fall upon the unmissable Hassan II Mosque at Sour Jdid. Completed in 1993, it took more than seven years and as many as 10,000 artisans to complete the intricate masterpiece. It’s among Africa's largest mosques and features one of the world's tallest minarets. Thanks to its imposing location on the waterfront and its resplendent exterior that blends Islamic architecture with Moroccan and Moorish elements, it’s one of the country's most striking buildings.

Approaching on a sizzling Sunday afternoon proved, as with so many things in Casablanca, a pleasing contrast of sensory stimulations: a mild sea breeze sweeps over the mosque’s vast concourse, tourists shelter from the scorching sun under its arches and the saccharine scent of popcorn wafts over from the beach promenade. To get a sense of the size of this thing, significant dates in

lobby dining area, The Mint Lounge offers every kind of sweet and savoury treat you could ever want; from scones and gourmet sandwiches, to macarons, tarts, cakes, a chocolate fountain and an enticing selection of traditional Moroccan pastries.

Using local ingredients, like orange blossom water, rose water, almonds and dates, these Moroccan delicacies are so irresistible you’ll want to swipe a tray of them for your plane ride home. Wash this down with a something from the extensive tea menu and you’ll be ready to go for a sunset dinner here. The atmosphere is anything but ordinary; a Moroccaninfused menu is served by a fire pit overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Divine.

To think Casablanca is just three hours away from London is mind-blowing. It's probably one of the biggest culture-hops you could make in that time - and what a wonderful one it is. It’s a city for travelers who like to feel like a local and who want to experience the present as well as learn about the past.

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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Create a Spa in your own Home Balancing Energising De-stressing Create a Spa in your own home that can be fully automated to your personal preferences, assuring: Balancing, Energising and De-Stressing Water in the form of rain; water as a clear powerful cascade; powerful pulsing water or gently enveloping jets.

Walton Bathrooms, The Hersham Centre, Molesey Road, Hersham, Surrey KT12 4HL. (Easy parking next to Waitrose) Opening Times: Mon - Sat 9am - 5pm INTERNET & CONTRACT SALES TEL: 0208 481 7970

See the Ambiance Tuning Technology - ATT

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19/03/2018 17:50

M

The Hotel

A

rtist Residence Oxfordshire is the latest offering from dynamic duo Justin and Charlotte Salisbury. With locations in Brighton, Cornwall and London, the brand is known for its innovative approach to design, with each hotel possessing a distinctive aesthetic. Their latest venture is no different.

Named Most Romantic Hotel in The Sunday Times’ Top 100 British Hotels, Artist Residence Oxfordshire was originally a 16th century farmhouseturned-local pub, which has now been given a new lease of life. Situated in picturesque countryside, the venue offers an intimate five rooms alongside an award-winning restaurant, Mr Hanbury’s Mason Arms.

We are pleasantly surprised to find that the rustic charm of the building has been retained: think large open fireplaces, wooden-beamed ceiling, stone floors and plenty of low-lit corners to cosy up in.

But in true Artist Residence style, there are plenty of contemporary-cool touches.

Design-lovers will relish the neon light installations, velvet furnishings and eclectic wall art - the vibe is very much English country pub meets east London cool.

The Rooms

W

e’re staying in the Farmhouse Loft Double, which is located on the second floor, and is the second largest of the hotel’s rooms. Featuring a sizeable ensuite bathroom and luxurious super king bed, the space is light-filled and airy, helped along by the high gabled ceiling. We love the clever little interior touches - from the writing desk and love-worn leather armchairs to the artisanal textiles and upcycled side tables. Together they create a homely yet style-conscious environment.

The wooden-floored bathroom is another highlight, with its delicious-smelling Bramley toiletries and free-standing roll top bathtub, which is positioned next to an idyllic mullioned window.

weekend

The food

r Hanbury’s Mason Arms is the pub and restaurant connected to the hotel that offers an inventive menu from head chef Leon Smith, which showcases his passion for foraged, seasonal and local produce. You can choose between dining in the wood-panelled, stone floored pub or the more formal dining room, designed in collaboration with artists The Connor Bothers. We opt for a table in the pub and enjoy a hearty meal of heritage beetroot salad, beerbattered haddock and chips and a decadent chocolate fondant.

Pub grub just got stylish.

“The vibe is English country pub meets East London cool”

DESTINATIONS

TRAVEL • UK GETAWAY

ARTIST RESIDENCE Oxfordshire

By J OY M O N TG O M E RY

Rooms start from £130 per night MT HANBURY'S MASON ARMS Station Road, South Leigh OX29 6XN; 01993 656220; oxford@artistresidence.co.uk artistresidenceoxford.co.uk

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A ROYAL WELCOME We take a trip to the Half Moon Resort in Jamaica, the royal family’s favourite Caribbean hotel Wo r d s E L I Z A B E T H H U T T O N

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TRAVEL • WANDERLUST

N

o worries, no problem” is a saying you’ll hear a lot in Jamaica. It’s a motto. A way of life. A calming notion that if you have no worries - and at the Half Moon in Montego Bay they make sure you don’t - you have no problems and vice versa. A firm favourite with the British Royal family, who have been coming to stay here for the past 50 years, the Half Moon has also been home to the American Royal family, the Kennedys, who stayed for a month prior to JFK’s inauguration. More recently, modern day pop royalty, including Rihanna and Lil Wayne, have also chosen to relax and unwind at this resort. So, what’s the secret to the

Half Moon’s long-lasting appeal?

The truth is, it’s heaven. I stayed in the Imperial Suite which, rather than a simple hotel room, was a sea-view villa with its own living space, bedroom, bathroom, walk-in wardrobe and, most impressively, pool. Classically designed, the elegant rooms aren’t modern or glitzy, but rather a nostalgic nod back to the Half Moon’s '50s, '60s roots. It’s this timeless approach to design that allows you to take yourself away from modern stresses and therefore adds to the calming effect of the resort.

The Half Moon beaches surpass those I’ve seen in any cheesy rom-com. With over two miles of seafront, the crescent-shaped Sunset Beach actually inspired the name of the resort back in 1954. Here, we spent hours kayaking, paddle boarding and, of course, drinking Red Stripe. As night fell, fire torches were lit all along the front so we could stop to watch the sky turn from blue to pink before the stars and moon took over.

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24 - 26 AUGUST BANK HOLIDAY 2018 FRIDAY READING • SATURDAY LEEDS

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BILL SUBJECT TO CHANGE

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TRAVEL • WANDERLUST

“As night fell, fire torches were lit so we could stop to watch the sky turn from blue to pink”

There is, however, more to the Half Moon than mere beauty. With their very own equestrian centre, 18 hole golf course and Jamaica’s largest spa, activities here reign supreme. The ‘Turf and Surf’ horseback ride is an experience no one could ever forget, with the horses actually taking you off into the Caribbean sea.

While the horses swim, you hold onto their tails and glide behind them. Admittedly, it’s not for the faint-hearted, but perfectly safe for even beginner riders and is bizarrely soothing once you get going. Following this with an Instagram-worthy photo shoot (where you can stand on the horse's back and pose) it will be hard to find an experience that will be as majestical, or as insane, ever again.

If you’re not up for the adrenaline rush of the ride and swim, The Fern Tree Spa is a beautiful alternative. With its own herb garden, the spa uses what it grows, so ingredients include fresh lemongrass, aloe and ginger. Combining modern techniques with Jamaican traditional healing therapies, the treatments here are decompressing, invigorating and realigning - if you felt any jet lag, you won’t after leaving the treatment room. To make the most of the spa, visit the hydrotherapy

swimming pool before your treatment.

I found it completely empty so I could get into the right state of mind for my massage.

Food found in the resort grounds is also delicious, with six different restaurants offering up an array of international cuisines.

While breakfast is served buffet-style and consists of both European and Caribbean foods, such as ackee and salt fish, lunch and dinner were a more formal affair. My personal favourite was dinner at the Seagrape Terrace where we ate ahi tuna with guacamole and cucumber followed by grilled lobster tail with mashed potato and melted butter. Locally caught, both types of meat were incredibly tender and flavoursome.

For those wanting to try something even more spectacular, the hotel owned restaurant Sugar Mill is worth a visit.

Located on the old Rose Hall Sugar Plantation, the mill and its water wheel still stand and create a magical backdrop to dinner. Known for its modern take on traditional Jamaican cuisine, this awardwinning fine dining restaurant uses a charcoal grill to add a smokey flavour to dishes, such as wagyu striploin and veal chop with jerk-herb butter. We finished off our feast with a thimble of 50 year old Appleton Estate rum - the oldest available to buy.

Having stayed at the Half Moon, it’s obvious why the resort remains so popular.

It’s a homely, private and luxurious Caribbean escape. Whether you choose to spend all your time by the pool, on the beach or adrenaline seeking, you will leave feeling revived. Come here for a proper break away and you will be ready to face whatever you have waiting for you back home.

HALF MOON RESORT An Ocean Deluxe Room at Half Moon starts from US$593 (approx £430), based on double occupancy. Price includes airport transfers, breakfast, lunch and dinner, and a daily drinks credit of US$120 (approx £90). halfmoon.com

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PROPERTY Living the dream

FORGE LANE TW10

ÂŁ995,000

126

Famous Places

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Nigel Lewis: Buy to let

three-storey mews house set in a tranquil location within a private exclusive courtyard development. The area is ideally located for Central Richmond with fast trains into London. The property is a paradise for outdoor pursuits, is home to the Ham Polo Club and in the catchment area for excellent schools.

Richmond Park and Petersham Nurseries are also only a stroll away.

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A

DEXTERS Richmond 02082889988 dexters.co.uk

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CHISWICK GREEN STUDIOS, CHISWICK A rare to market one/ two bedroom loft style apartment in a highly sought-after and prestigious gated development with easy access to Chiswick High Road and transport links. EPC = C

1

1

1

ASKING PRICE

£975,000 CHISWICK 020 8994 6567

MAYFIELD AVENUE, CHISWICK A semi-detached five bedroom Victorian house situated off Chiswick High Road on one of the area’s most desirable roads. The property has been beautifully refurbished and extended throughout. EPC = D

5

5

2

ASKING PRICE

£2,795,000 CHISWICK 020 8994 6567

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Chiswick Hammersmith West Kensington Fulham Chelsea

Battersea Clapham Putney Barnes Richmond

Kew Sheen Twickenham Teddington Kingston

featherstoneleigh.co.uk

CHISWICK LANE, CHISWICK A highly desirable five bedroom Edwardian family house with offstreet parking and a wealth of original features including cornicing, tiling to the entrance hall and stained glass windows. EPC = D

5

5

2

ASKING PRICE

£3,000,000 CHISWICK 020 8994 6567

STRAND ON THE GREEN, CHISWICK A matchless and exquisite five bedroom wide detached double fronted Georgian house, in part dating back as far as 1697. The property has been sensitively extended and altered over time. EPC = F

5

3

2

PRICES FROM

£3,650,000 CHISWICK 020 8994 6567

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FO R SALE

WENDELL ROAD W12 £ 1, 2 9 5 ,0 0 0 FREEHOLD • • • • •

A light and well proportioned Edwardian family house Four bedrooms Two Bathrooms Double reception room Glazed partial side return extension

14 5 ASKE W ROAD, W12 9AU

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• • • • •

Kitchen / breakfast room Generous south facing garden - 68’ approx.

Good quality garden room / office Off street parking 1776 sq m / 165 sq m approx. EPC - D

0 2 0 8 8 11 2 9 2 9

•

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16/03/2018 09:10

FO R SALE

DORVILLE CRESCENT W6 £7 3 0 ,0 0 0 LE ASEHOLD • • • • •

An elegant upper ground floor flat with fantastic finish 2 double bedrooms Bathroom Reception room Separate kitchen

14 5 ASKE W ROAD, W12 9AU

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• • • • •

Good built-in cupboards and wardrobes Private patio area Own entrance Long lease ( 154 Yrs unexpired ) 667 sq ft / 62 sq m approx. EPC - D

0 2 0 8 8 11 2 9 2 9

•

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16/03/2018 09:10

Elliott Road, W4

£1,039 per week St Mary’s Grove, W4

A four double bedroom house in Chiswick with a reception room, downstairs WC and a large fully fitted modern kitchen with doors leading out onto a patio garden, energy rating d.

020 8742 4100 chiswicklettings@fletcherestates.com

St Albans Avenue, W4

£995 per week

A newly refurbished five bedroom detached house in the Grove Park area. There is a dining room, modern kitchen and a reception room with doors opening onto a garden, energy rating e.

020 8742 4100 chiswicklettings@fletcherestates.com

£995 per week Chiswick Common Road, W4

A five bedroom family home near Bedford Park with a reception room, dining room, kitchen and two bathrooms. Further benefits include a beautiful garden, energy rating d 020 8742 4100 chiswicklettings@fletcherestates.com

£875 per week

Set over three floors, a refurbished four bedroom terraced house with two bathrooms. The property has a reception/dining room and a kitchen with doors opening onto a patio, energy rating c.

020 8742 4100 chiswicklettings@fletcherestates.com

Tenants fees apply: £180 per tenancy towards administration, £60 reference fee per tenant and £144 for a professional check in (All inc of VAT).

fletcherestates.com

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Chiswick Lane, W4 A six double bedroom, five bathroom Edwardian house with two large reception rooms.

The master bedroom has a large dressing room and a balcony. The house benefits from a sauna, a media room and a garden with a terrace, energy rating d.

Rusthall Avenue, W4 Arranged over three floors, a six bedroom period home with a reception room leading onto a dining room. The property has a kitchen/dining area, two bath/shower rooms, utility room and a beautiful mature garden, energy rating f.

ÂŁ3,000,000 020 8987 3000 chiswicksales@fletcherestates.com

ÂŁ1,825,000

020 8987 3000 chiswicksales@fletcherestates.com

fletcherestates.com

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16/03/2018 13:57

1st

Real Estate Show in the GCC

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Participating Countries

REGISTER NOW

STRATEGIC PARTNERS

IN COOPERATION WITH

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+971 4 392 3232

www.internationalpropertyshow.ae 12/02/2018 10:39

S T G E O RG E P RO U D LY P R E S E N T S

FEEL GOOD FACTOR THRILLING

INSTANT CLASSIC

THE ONE WITH HEART

MUST SEE

A THRILLING NEW LIFESTYLE QUARTER NEW HOMES COMING SOON Filmworks features a stunning collection of art-deco inspired 1, 2 & 3 bedroom apartments and penthouses, ideally located in the heart of Ealing. The new homes will be centred around a vibrant new piazza, welcoming an exciting mix of shops, restaurants and bars, in addition to an impressive eight-screen Picturehouse cinema.

For more information please register your interest:

020 8023 7268 or visit www.filmworks-ealing.co.uk Details correct at the time of press. Illustration is indicative only.

www.filmworks-ealing.co.uk Proud to be a member of the Berkeley Group of companies

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LIVING THE

DREAM The most luxuriously appointed properties on the market

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ARLINGTON GARDENS W4, £1,999,950

A

n impressive four-bedroom, four-bathroom home that has been refurbished to the highest standard. It is ideally located in the heart of Chiswick just off Turnham Green and is within 500 meters of both Chiswick Park and Gunnersbury stations. This period home retains much of its character but also benefits from new features like underfloor heating throughout the ground floor.

DEXTERS Chiswick, 02089954321 dexters.co.uk

SEDGEFORD ROAD W 1 2 , £1,4 5 0,000

A

pretty threebedroom Edwardian family home with a double reception room that flows into a fabulous kitchen with a polished-concrete, heated floor. A useful outbuilding has been built for extra room and there is still potential to extend into the loft. The property is situated just to the north of Uxbridge Road and east of Askew Road in a peaceful enclave of wider streets.

PHILIP WOOLLER Shepherds Bush, 02088112929 philipwooller.com 1

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PROPERTY • NEW TO THE MARKET

KENILWORTH ROAD W 5, £ 75 0 P E R W E E K

LENA GARDENS W 6 , £ P OA

W A

ROSEDALE ROAD

onderful five-bedroom family home located within close proximity to Ealing Broadway providing excellent access to shops, schools, parks and transport. Features include two reception rooms, a large kitchen, pantry, utility room and cloakroom. There is also a lovely southwest facing garden to the rear of the property.

substantial ‘Passivhaus’ status family home that features five to six bedrooms, two floors of entertaining space and two floors of bedrooms. This bright and spacious property has all the eco-credentials, with six solar panels and three solar hot water panels which generate electricity and hot water. It also has excellent schools and transport links nearby.

WINKWORTH

FINLAY BREWER

Ealing & Acton, 02088960123 winkworth.co.uk

Brook Green, 02073714171 finlaybrewer.co.uk

T W 9, £ 789,9 5 0

A

beautifullypresented Victorian midterraced cottage located within a popular and quiet residential cul-de-sac. It is a very short distance from Richmond Park and Richmond station providing services into central London. The property features an open plan kitchen, two double bedrooms and a private courtyard garden with wooden decking making it usable all year round.

THIS BRIGHT AND SPACIOUS PROPERTY HAS ALL THE ECOCREDENTIALS, WITH SIX SOLAR PANELS WHICH GENERATE ELECTRICITY AND HOT WATER

DEXTERS

Richmond, 02082889988 dexters.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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Under the patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior of Qatar

Visit for EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNTS & OFFERS!

THE HOME OF REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT Cityscape Qatar, the only international real estate investment and development event in the State of Qatar, is back with its’ 7th edition. Visit Cityscape Qatar to discover the latest trends, projects and offers. Meet top real estate developers and brokers; empowering you to easily find your next investment opportunity or dream home!

23 – 25 APRIL 2018 Doha Exhibition and Convention Center, Qatar

REGISTER ONLINE FOR FREE ENTRY www.cityscapeqatar.com AL-ARAB RED CMYK C 15 PANTONE 186 C RGB R 209

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16/03/2018 11:55

DISCOVER a truly exceptional place to live Exclusive residences from ÂŁ4,450,000 Experience the luxurious standard of living at this unique gated collection of just four 4 and 6 bedroom refurbished and new build residences on the very edge of Richmond Park. The original Grade II listed Georgian mansion has been restored as three houses combining a range of period features and luxury contemporary refinements, while the new build residence has been sympathetically designed to respond to its historic setting.

Viewing by appointment only.

Call us now on 0333 666 4141 or email AncasterGate@londonsquare.co.uk

Selling agents Interior photography is of The Apsley show home and is indicative only.

The exterior photography has been enhanced and is also indicative only.

Details are correct at time of going to press. March 2018.

WWW.ANCASTERGATE.LONDON

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www.finlaybrewer.co.uk BROOK GREEN SHEPHERDS BUSH BROOK ACTON GREEN SHEPHERDS BUSH ACTON

138 SHEPHERDS BUSH ROAD W6 7PB 113 ASKEW ROAD W12 9AS 138 SHEPHERDS BUSH ROAD W6 7PB 27 CHURCHFIELD ROAD W3 6BD 113 ASKEW ROAD W12 9AS 27 CHURCHFIELD ROAD W3 6BD

www.finlaybrewer.co.uk www.finlaybrewer.co.uk

RAVENSCOURT PLACE W6 GUIDE £2M FREEHOLD UPPER MALL W6 • 5 BEDROOMS £1,500PW / £6,500PCM • DOUBLE RECEPTION UPPER MALL W6 • KITCHEN/BREAKFAST ROOM •£1,500PW FAMILY HOME •WONDERFUL CONSERVATORY/DINING ROOM / £6,500PCM • •• •• ••

BEDROOMS •4 DOUBLE STUDY/MEDIA/BEDROOM 6 MASTER SUITEFAMILY WITH MEZZANINE STUDY AREA WONDERFUL HOME 2 LIVING SPACE 4 FLOORS DOUBLE OF BEDROOMS 2 BATHROOMS & 2 SHOWER ROOMS MASTER SUITE WITH MEZZANINE STUDY AREA

• 2 FLOORS OF LIVING SPACE • 2 BATHROOMS & 2 SHOWER ROOMS

LOFTUS ROAD W12 GUIDE £675,000 LEASEHOLD HAARLEM ROAD W14 • 2 DOUBLE BEDROOMS £625PW / RECEPTION/DINING £2,708PCMROOM • OPEN PLAN HAARLEM ROAD W14 • KITCHEN •£625PW BEDROOM •2 DOUBLE 2 BATHROOMS (1 ENFLAT SUITE) / £2,708PCM • •• •• ••

RECEPTION CONTEMPORARY KITCHEN/BREAKFAST ROOM 2 DOUBLE BEDROOM FLAT MASTER WITH EN SUITE BATHROOM & DRESSING AREA RECEPTION SHOWER ROOM KITCHEN/BREAKFAST ROOM CONTEMPORARY

ASKEW ROAD 020 8749 7719 LETTINGS 020 7371 4071

• • •• •• ••

• 2 BATHROOMS (1 EN SUITE) • 3 SHOWER ROOMS LETTINGS 020 • 2 GUEST CLOAKROOMS GARDENS •2 COURTYARD WALLED GARDEN HAMMERSMITH & CHISWICK •EASY EPC ACCESS RATING TO D 60 UNFURNISHED 2 COURTYARD GARDENS EPC 57 HAMMERSMITH & CHISWICK EASYRATING ACCESSDTO AVAILABLE NOW UNFURNISHED

7371 4071

• EPC RATING D 57 • AVAILABLE NOW

ASKEW ROAD 020 8749 7719 LETTINGS 020 7371 4071

• • •• •• ••

• DRESSING AREA • UTILITY LETTINGS 020 7371 • WESTERLY GARDEN •BALCONY EPC RATING C 70 UNFURNISHED WALKING DISTANCE TO HAMMERSMITH BROADWAY BALCONY EPC RATING C 79 UNFURNISHED AVAILABLE NOW WALKING DISTANCE TO HAMMERSMITH BROADWAY

4071

LOCAL . INDEPENDENT . INVOLVED

• MASTER WITH EN SUITE BATHROOM & DRESSING AREA • SHOWER ROOM

• EPC RATING C 79

L O C A L . I N D E P E N D• EAVAILABLE N T NOW . INVOLVED

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LOCAL . INDEPENDENT . INVOLVED

13/03/2018 09:59

LUXEMBURG GARDENS W6 GUIDE £3.45M FREEHOLD • • • • •

6 BEDROOMS 2 RECEPTIONS KITCHEN/BREAKFAST/FAMILY ROOM LIBRARY STUDY

BROOK GREEN 020 7371 4171

• • • • •

4 BATHROOMS (2 EN SUITE) MASTER SUITE WITH DRESSING ROOM UTILITY ROOM & WINE CELLAR WALLED GARDEN EPC RATING E 54

CROMWELL GROVE W6 GUIDE £2.55M FREEHOLD • • • • •

4/5 BEDROOMS FULL WIDTH RECEPTION LARGE KITCHEN/BREAKFAST/FAMILY ROOM FAMILY BATHROOM 3 SHOWER ROOMS (1 EN SUITE)

BROOK GREEN 020 7371 4171

• • • •

UTILITY CELLAR 35’ GARDEN EPC RATING D 58

LOCAL . INDEPENDENT . INVOLVED

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www.finlaybrewer.co.uk BROOK GREEN SHEPHERDS BUSH BROOK ACTON GREEN SHEPHERDS BUSH ACTON

138 SHEPHERDS BUSH ROAD W6 7PB 113 ASKEW ROAD W12 9AS 138 SHEPHERDS BUSH ROAD W6 7PB 27 CHURCHFIELD ROAD W3 6BD 113 ASKEW ROAD W12 9AS 27 CHURCHFIELD ROAD W3 6BD

www.finlaybrewer.co.uk www.finlaybrewer.co.uk

CROMWELL GROVE W6 £1,750PW / £7,583PCM UPPER MALL W6 • 5 BEDROOMS / £6,500PCM •£1,500PW DOUBLE RECEPTION UPPER MALL W6 • SPACIOUS KITCHEN ••£1,500PW WONDERFUL FAMILY HOME WC 3 BATHROOMS /& SEPARATE £6,500PCM •• •• •• ••

4 DOUBLE BEDROOMS CONSERVATORY & UTILITY ROOM MASTER SUITEFAMILY WITH MEZZANINE STUDY AREA WONDERFUL HOME 2 LIVING SPACE 4 FLOORS DOUBLE OF BEDROOMS 2 BATHROOMS & 2 SHOWER ROOMS MASTER SUITE WITH MEZZANINE STUDY AREA

• 2 FLOORS OF LIVING SPACE • 2 BATHROOMS & 2 SHOWER ROOMS

MASBRO ROAD W14 £1,500PW / £6,500PCM HAARLEM ROAD W14 • 5 BEDROOMS / £2,708PCM •£625PW BRIGHT RECEPTION HAARLEM ROAD W14 • OPEN PLAN KITCHEN ••£625PW 2 BEDROOM FLAT ENDOUBLE SUITE BATHROOM & 3 SHOWER ROOMS / £2,708PCM •• •• •• ••

RECEPTION NEW LOWER GROUND FLOOR WITH HIGH CEILINGS CONTEMPORARY KITCHEN/BREAKFAST ROOM 2 DOUBLE BEDROOM FLAT MASTER WITH EN SUITE BATHROOM & DRESSING AREA RECEPTION SHOWER ROOM KITCHEN/BREAKFAST ROOM CONTEMPORARY

LETTINGS 020 7371 4071 LETTINGS 020 7371 4071 • • • •• •• •• •• ••

PRIVATE GARDEN CLOSE TO TRANSPORT LINKS LETTINGS 020 UNFURNISHED 2 COURTYARD GARDENS EPC RATING F 30 EASY ACCESS TO HAMMERSMITH & CHISWICK AVAILABLE BEGINNING APRIL UNFURNISHED 2 COURTYARD GARDENS EPC 57 HAMMERSMITH & CHISWICK EASYRATING ACCESSDTO AVAILABLE NOW UNFURNISHED • EPC RATING D 57 • AVAILABLE NOW

7371 4071

LETTINGS 020 7371 4071 LETTINGS 020 7371 4071 • • • •• • •• •• ••

PRIVATE GARDEN UNFURNISHED LETTINGS 020 7371 EPC RATING D 67 BALCONY NOW AVAILABLE UNFURNISHED WALKING DISTANCE TO HAMMERSMITH BROADWAY BALCONY EPC RATING C 79 UNFURNISHED AVAILABLE NOW WALKING DISTANCE TO HAMMERSMITH BROADWAY

4071

LOCAL . INDEPENDENT . INVOLVED

• MASTER WITH EN SUITE BATHROOM & DRESSING AREA • SHOWER ROOM

• EPC RATING C 79

L O C A L . I N D E P E N D• EAVAILABLE N T NOW . INVOLVED

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13/03/2018 09:59

BLYTHE ROAD W14 £520PW / £2,253PCM • • • •

2 DOUBLE BEDROOMS LARGE RECEPTION WITH WOOD FLOORING KITCHEN 2 BATHROOMS (1 EN SUITE)

LETTINGS 020 7371 4071

• • • •

SINCLAIR ROAD W14 £460PW / £1,993PCM • • • •

2 DOUBLE BEDROOMS SPACIOUS RECEPTION KITCHEN MODERN BATHROOM

CLOSE TO AMENITIES AT HAMMERSMITH & SHEPHERDS BUSH UNFURNISHED EPC RATING E 50 AVAILABLE MID APRIL

LETTINGS 020 7371 4071

• • • •

SHORT WALK TO SHEPHERDS BUSH & WESTFIELD LONDON FURNISHED EPC RATING D 65 AVAILABLE BEGINNING APRIL

LOCAL . INDEPENDENT . INVOLVED

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13/03/2018 09:59

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

MAYORAL MANOR

F

WOULD IT SUIT YOU?

T

he Celebrity stitcher Ozwald Boateng’s signature style has reeled in a wide range of stars including Mick Jagger Jimmy Page, Graham Norton and Spike Lee as well as the costume designers of many TV shows and films including Oceans 13, Tomorrow Never Dies, Sex and the City, Ugly Betty and The Matrix.

But his biggest coup came when, during the 1990s, he helped define Cool Britannia and often popped into No.10 for meetings with Tony Blair.

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Politics may have moved on, but Boateng remains popular. Anyone hankering after a bespoke suit makes his shop at No.30 Savile Row a musthave appointment even if, for the average man in the street, a suit can cost a month’s wages.

Which is a good thing – he’s got expensive tastes himself including this house in London’s Mayfair, which is now available to rent.

It is a six-bedroom, eight-bathroom, three-reception-room terraced house on Chandos Street off Oxford Street and is available to rent through Knight Frank (020 3435 6440) at £5,000 a week.

oreign Secretary Boris Johnson and his siblings were encouraged as children to discuss high-brow subjects, and his father Stanley says the earliest ambition of the young mayor-to-be was to be ‘world king’.

His parents took the family all over the world and while Boris was born in New York he also called Exmoor, London, Washington DC, Oxford and Brussels home.

But the best-known of these, where his father settled after he split from Boris’ mother, is in Primrose Hill.

The house, which is for sale, found international fame when Boris used it as the base for his London mayoral campaign, and is well known in the area for its pink façade.

The house was also nicknamed the 'Rocking Horse House', as despite having been passed through a number of owners, a rocking horse has always featured in the front bay window.

60 Regent’s Park Road is a fivestorey Victorian house with several reception rooms, a cinema, wine cellar and four bedrooms.

“Following the most recent sale in 2010, the house underwent a comprehensive transformation and extensive refurbishment,” says Orly Lehman from joint agent Knight Frank.

“The current owners have increased the size to around 5,226 sq ft to provide an incredible family home that retains the original charm.”

It’s for sale at £11.25 million through both Knight Frank (020 3815 3350) and Aston Chase (020 7724 4724).

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PROPERTY • STAR HOMES

GOOD MEWS

M

cMafia, the BBC1 TV drama about the murky world of global organised crime, based on a book written by journalist Misha Glenny, has wowed viewers and critics.

Starring Happy Valley actor James Norton, fans will remember the many shots of him strolling down a cobbled street to the London home of his character, a City investment banker.

In real life the road is Cranley Mews, a back street in west London off the Fulham Road. But in reality, in order to live here even City bankers might baulk; the luxe property is currently available to rent for £1,095 a week.

“Cranley Mews is a great spot, we love the pretty mews houses, and it’s in a wonderful location near Gloucester Road - its use as a filming location for McMafia has certainly added an extra frisson,” says Gabriella Gyngell from letting agent Strutt & Parker (020 3504 6823).

"Its design is so unusual that Channel 4 presented it in their TV programme Amazing Spaces"

NARROW APPEAL

T

his seven foot by seven foot ‘gap house’ built in a passageway between two shops is deceptively large, given its tiny front elevation.

Known officially as The Slim House, the property has threestoreys and a steep sloping roof that swoops down from the front to the 48 ft garden at the back. Its design is so unusual that TV presenter George Clarke featured it on his Channel 4 programme Amazing Spaces.

The property is in Clapham and was originally developed by a young first-time buyer couple who bought it for £430,000 before it was then sold to an advertising executive in 2014, who has now put it on the market for £1 million.

“Having been extended by its former owners, the property has been cleverly designed with well-placed storage and bespoke fittings to maximise the 1,058 square feet of living accommodation,” says selling agent Jasper Colliver of Savills (0208 8774 811).

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SALES SALES

5 -7 Tur n h a m G re e n Te rra ce, C h isw ic k , Lon don , W4 1R G Te l 0 2 0 8 7 4 7 8 8 0 0 · Fa x 020 8995 7275 E-m a i l i n fo @wh i t m a n a n dco.com · We bsite w w w. w h i t m a n a n dco. co m

FAIRLAWN AVENUE, W4 WAVENDON AVENUE, W4

£465,000 £3,250,000

LETTINGS

Put this meticulously renovated home one offlat Chiswick’s most prestigious streets, the definition of super-luxe.

From its lavish master suite, with dressing An simply, amazingly light, well presented tripleon aspect with the added benefit of a isbalcony and private garden.

Three bedrooms, luxury bathroom, room, free-standing bath andintegrated wet room, to the full basement complete with in guest and sauna, it offers perfectgarden balancewith of entertaining andIdeally living 14' reception room, fully kitchen, gas fired extension central heating, share theroom freehold, balcony andthe private side access. space.

Thewithin house is arranged over four floors andPark retains many of theand original Edwardian shopping features. 5 Bedrooms, 3 Reception rooms, 4 Bathrooms.

D situated close proximity of Chiswick tube station the extensive and restaurant facilities on Chiswick HighEPCRoad.

LINDENCOTTAGE, GARDENS, W4 LAMB ALWYN AVENUE,W4 W4

£330 PER WEEK £1.600,000 £3,495,000

A newly decorated loweropportunity ground floor garden flat with privateand west facing state garden.

Large double bedroom with wardrobes, reception room with An outstanding and unique to own this newly developed extended of the art home in the heart of Chiswick that has been meticulously wood floors, bathroom with shower fitted kitchen,extension, garden. ground The flatfloor is on one of double Chiswick's best located from the shops, refurbished to the highest standard.

With aover, stunning basement extensions, loft conversion and roads, garden moments studio in addition to the restaurants HighofRoad andof 5 sumptuous minutes from Turnham Green station.has Thebeen property earlyofSeptember, furnished. original housecafés thereon is inthe excess 3400 sqft accommodation.

No expense sparedisinavailable the rebuilding the house with every detail given full consideration by our discerning client and his highly skilled team. EPC-C

• WHITMAN.indd 2

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SALES LETTINGS POINT WHARF LANE, DUKES AVENUE, W4 TW8

£350 PER WEEK GUIDE £2,250,000

ABeautifully spectacularpresented seven bedroom detached periodsecond family house generous proportions west facing garden andBoasting off street aparking on this premier two semi double bedroom floor with flat in this highly soughtthroughout, after riverside development. stunning open plan residential road in theroom, heart of Chiswick. houseand comprises; Seven bedrooms, Two bathrooms, Large hallroom, with original tessellated tiles,with Twogranite reception kitchen reception a river sideThe balcony a master ensuite bedroom.

Large open planentrance reception fully fitted kitchen work rooms, Kitchen/breakfast Conservatory, Cloakroom, Cellar,parking Private 40’ West included. facing garden, Off street parking. Ideally situated on this wide tree lined avenue tops, fitted wardrobes room, and riverside views.

Underground space running south off Chiswick High Road offering close proximity to all amenities. EPC-D.

QUEENROAD, ANNESW4 GROVE, LAMB COTTAGE, W4 W4 DUKE

£430 PER WEEK £1.600,000 £1,375,000

large, and four beautifully two double bedroom flatlined on this highlystreet desirable road in of the heart of Bedford Park, just minutes from AAlight andlight spacious bedroompresented period house ideally located in this tree residential running South Chiswick High Road. Four bedrooms, Two luxury Turnham Green underground floor kitchen/breakfast position ensuresroom, beautiful views Private from the reception and bedrooms. bathrooms, 25’ Through receptionstation. room, 17’Top Bespoke Cloakroom, West facing decked garden, polish hard wood flooring, Under floor heating. Situated within close proximity of Turnham Green tube Station and extensive restaurant and shopping facilities on Chiswick High Road. EPC-D.

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IS LONDON’S BUYTO-LET MARKET BUST? Nigel Lewis takes the pulse of London’s prime buy-to-let market and asks the experts what’s in store for its luxe rentals.

L

ondon has been the beating heart of the UK’s buy-to-let boom for several decades and its 200,000plus landlords now house over four million private renters.

Landlords love London, particularly – if they can afford to – its prime areas, where rents are high and property values, apart from occasional hiccups, have continued rising since the early noughties.

The average rent in London is £1,532 a month per property, while within the prime market £4,000 a month is not unusual, or five times the UK average. But over the past two years the wheels have come off the prime market.

The capital has been flooded with rental properties as many developers and landlords have bet heavily on the lettings market, particularly overseas investors from places such as Singapore, China and Hong Kong.

Also, the over-supply of properties was given a boost by the additional 3% Stamp Duty charged on investment properties in April 2016, the deadline for which prompted a Serengeti-like stampede to purchase properties and avoid the extra tax.

These upmarket buy-to-let addresses are now causing a problem for the market.

Supply and demand are out of kilter and agent Knight Frank says that rents have

Weaker middle prime market? A £1,095-a-week mews house near Gloucester Road available to rent via Strutt & Parker

138

been going down for over a year - being a landlord in London’s prime markets has been a rollercoaster experience of recent.

As well as the 3% increase in Stamp Duty, landlords have seen the tax relief they once enjoyed on their mortgage interest payments being cut back each year, while the automatic tax deductions for wear and tear have also been reduced.

A reasonable person might conclude, therefore, that investing in London’s prime neighbourhoods is not an opportunity worth the risk. Knight Frank disagrees.

It says in recent months the tax hikes have persuaded landlords to begin exiting the market and last year the number of properties available to rent reduced by 6.4% while demand increased – by 17.6%.

This, it says, will begin to drive rents back up again, most likely in the lower and upper ends of this rarefied market, which Knight Frank defines as properties with rents under £1,000 a week and over £5,000 a week.

The mid-market for prime London addresses renting at between £1,000 and £1,500 a week has been, and will remain, the weakest. Rents have been falling in this price bracket by nearly 5% over the past 12 months, Knight Frank says, more so than any other prime sector.

Savills paints a similar picture. It says the lower end of the prime London rental market is where the most tenants are looking for properties, and that the rent reductions are beginning to slow down.

Landlords must be careful about where and what they buy, Savills’ research suggests. Its figures point to one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments being

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PROPERTY • NEW TO THE MARKET

the most popular among tenants, while larger family-size properties are the least sought-after. And the area where the rental price reductions have been the smallest over the past year is north west London, taking in famous-name areas such as Highgate, Hampstead, Primrose Hill and St John’s Wood. This is followed by north east London including areas considered to be hipster enclaves including Shoreditch and Islington – although parts of central London are still thought to offer an opportunity.

“In prime central London, markets which provide better value for money, such as Earl’s Court, Pimlico and Marylebone, have fared better than the more expensive areas,” says Savills' Yolande Barnes.

“Rents have been falling in this price bracket by nearly 5% over the past 12 months, Knight Frank says, more so than any other prime sector”

“Some of the markets are those with a large new build supply pipeline – a situation that has brought them to the attention of a wider range of tenants. This is especially true for Marylebone, with half of Savills renters relocating here for the lifestyle.”

Savills is also upbeat about the market in the future, predicting that prime London rents will be rising by 4% a year by 2021.

One unusual aspect of the market is that there has been a surge in the number of tenants created by vendors who can’t sell their homes at the moment but who must move, opting to rent instead, says Richard Davies, at Chestertons.

It would appear that London’s beating heart continues, although perhaps not at the blood-pumping pace it used to.

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ONWARDS AND UPWARD John Martin of John Martin Estates gives his take on the current state of the property market with the benefit of his 30 years in the industry

I

f I meet someone on the Lane when buying lunch or in a local restaurant or pub, the second question I am asked after “How are you?” is “What’s happening with the property market?”

It really is the question on everyone’s lips.

All areas will have their specific peculiarities but the general trend in Ealing and west London followed a similar pattern in the last quarter of 2017. It was a difficult market where buyers were either showing genuine interest in properties but unable to proceed as they were unable to sell their own properties or were looking for an absolute bargain which the majority of vendors were reluctant to provide. In particular, interested purchasers with flats to sell were finding it hard and we can speculate on the reasons. The additional 3% SDLT and the new landlord tax regime were prime culprits, as the

usual pool of investors seeking to dip their toes in the water or add to their small portfolio were just not available.

So, is there any light at the end of the tunnel? Well, the simple answer is yes. The first quarter of 2018 has brought an increase in activity with the hard work in the autumn months finally coming to fruition. Deals have been put together and exchanges and completions have taken place.

What has brought about the increase in activity? Well one thing that we have always known has been proven: our property market needs first time buyers and the SDLT change for this sector in the Autumn Statement should have been seen as a welcome step. It appears to have been what was required to encourage the naturally cautious first time buyer to get the ladder working the way it should. Further, committed vendors have been more realistic and the majority took

“So, is there any light at the end of the tunnel?

Well, the simple answer is yes.” the advice offered during the last quarter of 2017 regarding asking prices.

The other thing that this market has shown is the benefit of personal service and attention from a high street agent with good local knowledge and experience. The correct advice in a market such as we have experienced and continue to deal with is invaluable. The key is being able to sell the property and not just market it on a portal. It is therefore pleasing, as I write this, to see that recent research from the HomeOwners Alliance shows that the vast majority of homeowners still prefer and opt for a high street agent over an online agent.

Let’s all, therefore, bounce into the next Spring quarter with an enthusiastic and positive mindset.

There is, without doubt, a marked increase in homeowners seeking advice on placing their property on the market for sale in the next few weeks and so we can look forward to a steady market where committed buyers and sellers at all levels will achieve their goals.

For advice and to view the properties available please contact John and his team.

John Martin Estates 020 8998 3333 www.johnmartinestates.com

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1

1

DULWICH £ 1 ,7 9 5 ,0 0 0

T

Style and Substance

How much for a four-bedroom Victorian semi-detached house in London?

V

ictorian homes will never go out of fashion. They are beautiful in design with their bay and sash windows, intricate high ceilings, ornate fireplaces, patterned tiles and stained glass windows.

They are also very good at standing the test of time, making them ideal family homes and investments for the future.

You should always seek a full building survey before buying any new home, but to start find out the rough guide price for the area, before putting in an offer.

In the sought out location of Dulwich, the guide is between £825,000 and £1.8 million, the family home featured comes in at £1,795,000 and benefits from a private garden and nearby schools.

Further east in Blackheath, the guide price is slightly lower, between £600,000 and £1.5 million.

144

~

S O U T H WA R K

his is a rare opportunity to acquire a four bedroom, semi-detatched family home in one of the most sought after locations in Dulwich Village.

Set on the corner of Court Lane and Desenfans Road and benefitting from a private garage, this elegant house offers excellent entertaining and family space with a two reception rooms, an eat-in kitchen and landscaped garden. Upstairs features four bedrooms and two bathrooms (one ensuite).

The loft has already been converted in to a spacious bedroom.

This home is wonderfully situated in the heart of the Village, perfect for all of the amentities and school catchments.

Court Lane is one of the most prestigious addresses in Dulwich Village due to its proximity to both Dulwich Village and Dulwich Park. Sought-after state schools are on the doorstep, as are world-renowned independent options such as James Allen's Girls School, Alleyn's School and Dulwich College.

More information from Knight Frank on 020 3757 6230 or knightfrank.com

2 In Bromley, the price falls to between £700,000 and £950,000. The Victorian semidetached featured comes in at £850,000 and has excellent transport links.

Finally, to buy a Victorian property in Newham, you will need to drum up between £550,000 and £975,000. For the lower end of the spectrum, you can buy the Purple Bricks property, benefitting from spacious rooms.

“You should always seek a full building survey before buying any home, but to start find out the guide price for the area”

BLACKHEATH £ 1 , 5 0 0,0 0 0 F R E E H O L D

~

GREENWICH

T

his property is in excellent decorative order with period features, high ceilings, feature marble fireplaces, cornicing, sash windows, feature radiators, solid oak Herringbone flooring and gas fired central heating.

The accommodation comprises a large reception, a stunning kitchen with luxury applicances, an island, breakfast bar, skylights, bi-folding doors to the garden and a quaint reading corner ideal for small children. To the rear is a 60ft south facing garden. This home is perfect for a new family and immediate viewings are highly recommended.

For more information, go to winkworth.co.uk or call 020 8852 0999

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PROPERTY • FEATURE

2

3

3

4

BECKENHAM

WEST HAM

£ 8 5 0,0 0 0

£ 5 5 0,0 0 0 G U I D E P R I C E

~ FH are pleased to offer this

K

BROMLEY

four-bedroom, Victorian semidetached house, which is ideally located for both Clock House and Kent House Stations.

The property comprises an open-plan lounge, an extended kitchen and breakfast room. On the first floor there is a family bathroom and an en-suite to the master bedroom on the second level. Additional benefits include off-street parking and a garden. Currently for sale with KFH, go to kfh.co.uk

~

NEWHAM

4

T

his period property offers an abundance of space and light throughout and comprises of a large entrance hall, two reception rooms with double doors, a large modern fitted kitchen with bay windows, a further utility area and guest cloakroom on the ground floor. On the first floor there are four spacious bedrooms and a modern fitted family bathroom.

For more information from Purple Bricks, book a viewing today on 0800 810 8008 or visit purplebricks.co.uk

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www.johnmartinestates.com

EALING W5

ÂŁ695,000 LEASEHOLD

An unusual split level maisonette near Ealing Abbey and only moments from the heart of Ealing Broadway benefiting from its own private entrance and west facing rear garden. The property offers a spacious double volume through lounge and modern well-arranged fitted kitchen to the ground floor. To the first floor are three good sized bedrooms, family bathroom and separate W.C. The property also has gas fired central heating, double glazing and there is a garage at the rear accessible via the rear garden.

Energy Performance Certificate D

82 Pitshanger Lane, Ealing W5 1QX jmesales@johnmartinestates.com JOHN MARTIN.indd 1

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“PITSHANGER’S COMMUNITY ESTATE AGENT”

EALING W5

£799,999 FREEHOLD

A beautifully appointed end of terrace family home in the heart of the Brentham Garden Estate. The property benefits from an array of period features and is decorated in neutral shades throughout. To the ground floor is a spacious double aspect lounge, well arranged fitted kitchen/diner and cloakroom. To the first floor are three good sized bedrooms and modern family bathroom. There is a superb slate tiled split level rear garden, ideal for entertaining, as well as off street parking to the front and a garage.

Energy Performance Certificate E

*In addition to rent, tenants pay deposit (usually six weeks’ rent per property) and administration fee of £120 (inc VAT) per tenant plus check out fee (determined by size of property) at end of tenancy.

Any guarantor required pays administration fee of £60 (inc VAT). No renewal fees are payable.

JOHN MARTIN.indd 2

T: 020 8998 3333 16/03/2018 18:11

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