WEST MAY 2014

ABSOLUTELY West

MAY 2014 ÂŁ3.95

CHLOE LONSDALE On why denim is in her genes

PRECIOUS METAL

Journey through jewellery with Sophie Theakston

GARDENER'S WORLD The great outdoors issue

Tutti

Frutti

Seasonal recipes to tickle your tastebuds S T Y L I S H . I N T E L L I G E N T. E L E G A N T. A B S O L U T E LY

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01/04/2014 15:06

CONTENTS ABSOLUTELY

May ‘14

INSIDE THIS ISSUE: 07 EDITOR’S LETTER

CULTURE

11

WHAT’S ON

This month’s diary

16 CULTURE NOTES

The latest in local art and culture

31 JEAN GENIE

Chloe Lonsdale tells Pendle Harte why denim is in her genes

KIDS & EDUCATION

37 AN EDUCATION

Amanda Constance on a new generation of tech-savvy children

39 KIDS NOTES

Keeping them entertained

FASHION

41 FASHION NOTES

Absolutely style report

45 FLOWER POWER Fashion in bloom

HEALTH & BEAUTY

59 THE FUTURE’S BRIGHT

Add orange to your beauty bag, says Arabella Preston

60 BLOOMIN’ MARVELLOUS Gardening inspired beauty buys

HOMES & GARDENS

77 INTERIOR INSPIRATIONS

The latest news, trends and local gems

85 LET’S GO OUTSIDE

Selina Lake teaches us how to throw a fab garden fiesta

FOOD & TRAVEL

93 BITE SIZED

Essential foodie news

94 FROM FIELD TO FORK ABSOLUTELY

MAY 2014 £3.95

THE GARDENING ISSUE

Chiswick

A HIVE OF ACTIVITY

Meet the Royal beekeeper John Chapple

ABSOLUTELY West

MAY 2014 £3.95

CHLOE LONSDALE On why denim is in her genes

PRECIOUS METAL

DOUBLE DENIM

Journey through jewellery with Sophie Theakston

Jean genius Chloe Lonsdale

GARDENER'S WORLD The great outdoors issue

Ripe for the picking Locally sourced recipes from field to fork

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

Tutti

Frutti

Seasonal recipes to tickle your tastebuds

Recipes from locals in the know

PROPERTY

120 IN THEIR OWN WORDS

George Baskerville, Sales Managers at Marsh & Parsons

135 LIVING THE DREAM

This month’s prime properties

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

CHISWICK: LIKERISH; WEST: BEAUTY & PRO: BEULAH TOPAZ LINER FLORAL LIGHT TOP, £225 M&S SUIT, £55 JACKET, PINEAPPLE EARRINGS AND NECKLACE TOPSHOP, £18.50, £10

Contents Chiswick.indd 5

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26/02/14 09:45 16:00 26/03/2014

R

May 2014

oman philosopher Cicero said that if you have ‘a garden and a library, you have everything you need’. Well, I like to believe that I have one out of two. A personal library is something that is always expanding - and in theory a garden is the same: with any luck it grows and flourishes too. Though my garden must be all out of luck. It is a concrete postage stamp dotted with a few sad looking plants and dormant grow-bags. I am well aware, however, that I am a lucky Londoner to be in possession of a garden in the first place. But London isn’t the concrete jungle that some cynics would have you believe. In fact, after a recent trip to Los Angeles (yeah, just thought I’d drop that in there), I returned with a renewed appreciation of our green city. Yes, we may not have the eternal sunshine and beaches, but we have greenery in abundance. A park at every turn, gardens, lakes, Kew Gardens, Hyde Park, Richmond Park, Hampstead Heath – London begs you to tread its historic streets, to rest idly with a book, to lose yourself. I’m not the most horticulturally inclined, but I love the great outdoors, and compiling this gardening special has been a real treat.

Chelsea may be home to the world’s most famous flower show but Chiswick is where it all started. The RHS held their first flower show in a Chiswick garden back in 1833. It is also, of course, where you will find the fabulous Chiswick House and its famous grounds. Th is month we talk to Clare O’Brien, the new Director of the House Trust, on her exciting plans for the near future. On page 27 I talk to landscape gardener Cleve West about his Persian-inspired garden for Chelsea Flower Show and why he’d rather be on the allotment than collecting awards.

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or you can barely keep a cactus alive, I do hope you enjoy this month’s greenfingered issue.

Gemma Billington, Editor

7

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ABSOLUTELY CHISWICK | WEST

EDITOR GEMMA BILLINGTON EDITORIAL ASSISTANT CATHERINE HALES CONTRIBUTORS KATHRYN CAVE, NICK MADDEN TRAVEL EDITOR GEORGIE LANE-GODFREY ADVERTISING MANAGER ROLLO DENNISON KEY ACCOUNT MANAGER SCOTT EPHGRAVE ART DIRECTOR RAY SEARLE PRODUCTION MANAGER STEWART HYDE EDITORIAL DESIGNER GEMMA ISTEED MID-WEIGHT DESIGNER ANDREW MAVIN PRODUCTION DESIGNER TAHIR KAPUCU JUNIOR DESIGNER EDWARD TAYLOR PRODUCTION CONTROLLER CHRISTINE MANN PHOTOGRAPHER REBECCA NOONAN HEAD OF PROPERTY ANNA HUTTON-POTTS CENTRAL PROPERTY MANAGER LEAH DAY PROPERTY EDITOR LUCIE PEARCE FINANCE DIRECTOR ALEXANDRA HVID FINANCE MANAGER MARIANNE MCFADDEN DIRECTORS GREG HUGHES & ALEXANDRA HUNTER MANAGING DIRECTOR SHERIF SHALTOUT For editorial enquiries please email: editorial@zest-media.com For advertising enquiries please call 020 7704 0588 or email: advertising@zest-media.com Subscriptions are available simply by emailing marianne@zest-media.com You can receive an online subscription for FREE or a postal subscriptions for 12 months, £30 respectively (to cover postage and packaging). Please email us with your preferred option and details.

Published by ZEST MEDIA PUBLICATIONS LTD, 213 WESTBOURNE STUDIOS, ACKLAM ROAD W10 5JJ WWW.ZEST-MEDIA.COM T: 020 7704 0588 F: 020 7900 3020 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.

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02/04/2014 11:01

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26/03/2014 16:05

ABSOLUTELY

ARTS & CULTURE EN UN LUGAR DEL QUIJOTE (SOMEWHERE IN THE QUIXOTE)

20 - 25 MAY

RIVERSIDE STUDIOS

Set in an imaginary library, Miguel de Cervantes is hard at work in the composition of his magnum opus, while a nobleman named Alonso Quijano relives his adventures as a knight errant. Reality and fiction blur as the audience is forced to ask, ‘Which man is dreaming and which man is living a dream?’

1 Crisp Road, W6; riversidestudios.co.uk

What’s On

MAY

GARETH MALONE VOICES

HOW TO BUILD A BETTER TULIP

21 MAY

30 APRIL - 31 MAY

EVENTIM APOLLO

Fans of The Choir and Sing While You Work will be thrilled to hear that celebrity choirmaster and noted bowtie-wearer Gareth Malone will be bringing his new choir to the Eventim Apollo. Voices is the product of a nationwide search for the most talented and accomplished young singers Britain has to offer and who are embarking on their fi rst live tour of the UK in May and June. A fabulous night out for music-lovers, the only difficulty will be trying not to sing along.

45 Queen Caroline Street, W6; eventimapollo. com

TABARD THEATRE

JOHN WOODMAN HIGGINS ARMOURY AUCTION

‘Can you really engineer a weapon of mass destruction from a tulip?’ Th is is the question asked by Mark Giesser in his new play, an updated version of the classic Dumas novel The Black Tulip. Dr Audrey Braddock has fi nally settled down after years of wandering at Lincolnshire’s South Holland University and is ready to work in earnest on her special maize plants. Th at is, if her 17th century Dutch ancestor would stop nagging her to fi nish his incomplete attempt to breed the perfect black tulip...

2 Bath Road, W4; tabardweb.co.uk

7 MAY

25 BLYTHE ROAD

For anyone who has ever fancied owning a full suit of armour, this is the auction for you. Items from the John Woodman Higgins Armoury in Worcester, Massachusetts will be auctioned off and the proceeds contributed to ongoing studies at the Worcester Art Museum.

Th ink of the possibilities dueling your friends, positioning the suits in jaunty poses, making them wear hats…

25 Blythe Road, W14; 25blytheroad.com

11

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ABSOLUTELY

ARTS & CULTURE COURTNEY LOVE

THE ANTI-AGEING HEALTH AND BEAUTY SHOW

11 MAY

SHEPHERD’S BUSH EMPIRE

Notorious, mouthy and seemingly unable to correctly apply make-up, queen of grunge Courtney Love will be taking the Empire by storm this May. Despite her on-stage (and off-stage) antics and very public relationship with the late Kurt Cobain, Love’s music has received critical acclaim throughout her career as well has having one of the most influential and powerful voices of feminism in rock’n’roll history. Love her or hate her, its sure to be one hell of show.

Shepherd’s Bush Green, W12, o2shepherdsbushempire.co.uk

10 - 11 MAY OLYMPIA

Calling Festival 28 - 29 JUNE

CLAPHAM COMMON

An opportunity to discover the very latest in cosmetics and anti-ageing, The Antiageing Health and Beauty Show will feature treatments from leading beauticians and cosmetic doctors, an opportunity to sample new products and celebrity speakers ready to reveal their very own beauty secrets.

Originally created to educate and inform how to combat the first and secondary signs of ageing there is now something for everyone (including a once in a lifetime opportunity to have a makeover by Nicky Clarke!) – both the young and the young at heart.

Hammersmith Road, W14; olympia.co.uk

Calling Festival has taken the established Hard Rock Calling festival and given it a fresh new twist at a brand new home. The festival, held at London’s Clapham Common, will feature multiple stages with 20 of the hottest acts in rock and pop performing each day, some exciting surprises and amazing on site facilities including an array of food stalls, funfair and much more. The headliners this year will be world famous rock band Aerosmith who will return to England for the first time in four years to play the festival.

Windmill Drive, SW4; livenation.co.uk

MALEFICENT

IN CINEMAS 28 MAY Once upon a time, there was a beautiful princess called Aurora, who had two loving parents, three fairy godmothers and who was cursed to prick her finger on a spinning wheel on her 18th birthday and fall into an everlasting sleep. But this story isn’t about her. Angelina Jolie stars in the highly anticipated film about one of Disney’s most evil villains, providing an insight into the origins of Maleficent - here’s a hint, she didn’t start off bad.

Directed by Robert Stromberg and featuring a haunting soundtrack that includes songs from indie darling Lana del Ray, this film could either be a brilliant addition to the Disney canon or destroy everyone’s childhood. We can’t wait to see which.

12

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02/04/2014 11:30

“Gloriously entertaining” Mail on Sunday Theatre Royal Bath Productions presents

CLAIRE NATALIE PRICE IMBRUGLIA

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Things We Do For Love by

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BEN ORMEROD

FERGUS O’HARE

JON NICHOLLS

“Sharp and gorgeously funny” PLUS

The Times

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02/04/2014 11:06

ABSOLUTELY

ARTS & CULTURE

BLACK VENUS

BY JAMES MACMANUS

Black Venus captures the artistic scene in the great French capital city, at a time when the likes of Dumas and Balzac argued literature in the cafes of the Left Bank. Among the bohemians, the young Charles Baudelaire stood out dressed impeccably thanks to an inheritance that was quickly vanishing. Still at work on the poems that he hoped would make his name, he spent his nights enjoying the alcohol, opium and women who filled the seedy streets of the city.

One woman would catch his eye - a beautiful Haitian cabaret singer named Jeanne Duval.

Their lives would remain forever intertwined thereafter, and their romance would inspire his most infamous poems. James MacManus' Black Venus recreates the classic Parisian literary world in vivid detail, complete with not just an affecting portrait of the famous poet but also his often misunderstood, much-maligned muse.

Duckworth; £16.99

Well Read

Sheila O’Reilly’s selection of sensational reads. Enjoy!

THE MURDER BAG

BY TONY PARSON

MUST READ

This is the gripping first novel in an explosive new crime series by bestselling author Tony Parsons. If you like crimenovels by Ian Rankin and Peter James, you will love this. Twenty years ago, seven rich, privileged students became friends at their exclusive private school, Potter's Field.. Now they have started dying in the most violent way imaginable. Detective Max Wolfe has recently arrived in the Homicide division of London's West End Central, 27 Savile Row. As the bodies pile up, Max finds the killer's reach getting closer to everything he loves. Soon he is fighting not only for justice, but for his own life.

THE HIVE

BY GILL HORNBY

Set in an imaginary South London private primary school this is a wickedly funny and fascinating story about group politics and female friendship.

From the joys and perils (well, mainly perils) of the Lunch Ladder, to the military operation that is the Car Boot Sale, via the dos and don'ts of dressing your child as a dalek, all human life is here. Having never had children I have missed out on this side of children’s education, however Gill’s book has provided an entertaining and funny insight for me. The perfect summer read as you lounge by the pool.

Abacus; £7.99

Century; £9.99

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ABSOLUTELY

An assembly at Wanstead House by William Hogarth Oil on canvas. By William Hogarth. ©Philadelphia Museum of Art The John Howard McFadden Collection, 1928

ARTS & CULTURE

GRAND DESIGNS

William Kent was quite the Jack of all trades renowned as the designer of early Georgian Britain, he was also proficient in painting, sculpture, architecture, furniture, metalwork and even book illustration. As a landscape gardener, Kent designed the grounds at the iconic Chiswick House, which is revered as one of the earliest examples of the English landscape garden. Don’t miss the V&A’s major exhibition of Kent, which documents his rise to fame and lasting influence on British design. William Kent: Designing Georgian Britain, 22 March - 13 July; vam.ac.uk

BOOK ATTACK There are few things in life that can enrage quite like a bad book. Luckily, Barnes-based author E.P Rose has created a miniature new online game to rid the world of terrible literature.

Armed with a typically humorous back-story, button bash your way through a barrage of cascading, awful novels as they hurtle towards earth.

Warning: it’s bloody addictive.

To play BOOKATTACK visit tablethirteenbooks.com/bookattack

Culture Notes A NOSE FOR SUCCESS

WALK THIS WAY

This month is Get Walking Week (3 - 10 May).

British walking charity Ramblers will be offering a series of free guided walks across Greater London during this week, or if you fancy setting off with friends and family, you can download official Ramblers Routes on their website. Go on, get involved. ramblers.org.uk

The world of celebrity fragrances is pretty saturated - everyone from Kate Moss to Lady Gaga has turned their hand (or should that be nose) to the lucrative business. But eccentric Withnail & I star Richard E Grant?

Well, we didn’t see that one coming. The Richmond-based actor was encouraged by friend Anya Hindmarch to make a scent after he was caught emphatically sniffing around a gardenia bush on holiday. Jack, his debut unisex fragrance is an homage to Britain with notes of lime, clove, white musk, tobacco and pepper oil.

Available exclusively from Liberty, £95; jackperfume.co.uk

DID YOU KNOW? The one-and-only Kate Bush has surprised and delighted fans with the announcement that she will be performing a 22 day tour at the Eventim Apollo later this year, the venue she held her first – and last – tour over 30 years ago in 1979. The upcoming show is titled Before the Dawn and will kick-off on the 26 August. Altogether now: ‘Heathcliff…’ katebush.com

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Q&A

Colette McBeth From television reporter to author Can you tell us about your debut novel Precious Thing?

It’s a story about a really close female friendship that turns into an obsession. The character came to me first. I was fascinated by a woman who, for all intents and purposes, was very charming and successful but wasn’t quite what she appeared to be. I have some very close female friends and I think, particularly in adolescence, although they’re your best friends and you love them, there are days when you really don’t love them at all. They have a way of getting under your skin and making you feel worse than perhaps anyone else can make you feel. I wanted to explore that really thin line between love and hate in female friendships.

Do you think these relationships are more toxic in adolescence or jealousy is something that can plague friendships at any time?

I think it can affect you no matter what age, it does happen as adults as well. You know women who have those toxic friendships and it takes a while for people to realise that, actually, every time you spend a day in that person’s company you kind of leave feeling a bit worse about yourself.

Do you think it’s a predominantly female thing?

I think so. If you’re a bloke and that was the case then you wouldn’t bother with them.

I don’t know what it is about women that they feel a loyalty to someone so they keep coming back for more. What I did in Precious Thing was take that to the extreme.

Was the book based on a personal friendship?

To a certain extent. My friend hates it when I say this, and if you read the book you’ll see why – it’s not a particularly healthy friendship! There are themes in the book that I lifted from real life.

One of my best friends is someone I met on my first day at school, and that’s how my characters Clara and Rachel first meet.

When did you first have the idea for this book?

I spent a summer in Ibiza in 1998, the year I finished university, and it came to me then because I was surrounded by very cool people. After a while I began to wonder if I could really know them – were lots of people putting on a front? As the summer went on the facade dropped. That’s when the idea of the character came to me.

How long did it take to write?

18 months in total, although when I was writing it I was working full time at the BBC as a TV reporter. I did a creative writing course at Faber Academy, I enrolled on that in January 2011 and finished the first draft in the October, then I had my third baby in the November and then I started writing again about 3 months later.

Had you tried to write a novel before that?

I thought rather naively when I was on maternity leave with my first child that I would write a novel and then I had my son and I couldn’t even write my own name!

I was getting a little bit bored at work, I’d done the job for a long time and the idea - the characters - had grown so big in my

head that I just thought it was time to do something. For me the course was about discipline.

Would you recommend writing classes? The writer Hanif Kureishi recently criticised them...

I personally don’t think I would have written the book that I’ve written if I hadn’t been on the course. I had the same tutor as Rachel Joyce and SJ Watson – he’s had lots of successes. It taught me the mechanics of novel writing, although there’s a lot that you can’t be taught… just because you read lots of books, for example, doesn’t necessarily mean you know how to put together a good one.

What are your favourite books?

I really like Maggie O’Farrel and Angela Leavy but I tend to have favourite books rather than favourite authors. I really like South American authors like Gabriel García Márquez, I guess 100 Years of Solitude is my favourite novel of all time. I like good writing, a story with a strong plot and something that surprises me.

Your new novel, The Life I Left Behind, is published later this year, can you tell us about it?

It’s the story of two women who were attacked by the same man but years apart; one is alive and one is dead so it’s told from their alternating points of view as they work towards finding out who it was. Doing a second book is a bit like childbirth, you forget how awful it is! It’s not actually the writing that’s hard - for me anyway - it’s the plot. This book, if anything, has been harder than the first. You just seem to forget what you did the first time around or you spend too much time comparing it to the other one.

What do you like about living in Chiswick?

I grew up by the sea and never really wanted to live in London because I wanted to be close to water, so when I drove through Chiswick I thought: "Oh this is nice!" It feels like a village, I walk down the High Road and see lots of people I know, it’s really leafy… I go running by the river and think there’s no other place I’d rather be; it’s beautiful. And there’s a lot going on. I like to say I go out a lot in London but I don’t, I tend not to ever leave Chiswick!

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01/04/2014 17:33

What's the buzz?

J Michael Wale meets the Royal beekeeper, John Chapple

ohn Chapple’s enthusiasm and understanding of bees earned him the accolade of becoming the Royal beekeeper with hives at Buckingham Palace and Clarence House.

It was six years ago that he was invited by the Royal gardener to give a talk about bees. Later he was given a walk around that part of the Royal gardens at Buckingham Palace that is never seen by those invited to the various Royal garden parties.

As a result he chose a site to place two hives on an island off the hidden lake, so no-one would interrupt their existence. After a year the resulting honey was delivered to the Royal Family, who obviously appreciated it because he was asked to add another two hives to the island’s collection.

Then two years ago Prince Charles invited him to place hives at his London home at Clarence House.

Chapple got involved in bees in an indirect way. It was Christmas some years ago when his wife Kathleen asked him to buy her a book on how to keep bees in your backyard. In fact it turned out to be John’s backyard, because his wife said after she had read the book that it was up to him.

At the time he was working for British Airways as a simulator engineer at Heathrow. He is seventy now and remembers that someone at work knew a man who was very knowledgeable about bees. He was John Wilson. Chapple says:

network of beekeepers and they let you know about a swarm so that you could go and collect it. Th is is a service to the community. We don’t want bees to become a nuisance, so we are there for the bees and the public.’

It was soon after collecting his fi rst swarm and housing them in a hive in his garden that he admits that beekeeping became an obsession.

To visit his garden in west London is to experience the very truth of this admission. There seems to be no planning here, maybe the bees are in charge of that because around every corner there is another hive, and bees happily buzzing in and out. ‘Don’t worry about them they won’t sting you’, and when you are with the Royal beekeeper it makes you feel quite confident as you move through groups of bees in full fl ight. Not that they seem to be going very far on the day of my visit. However, John tells me that they quite often go three miles or more in search of the right forage, although he feels that in London there are too many bees being kept at present and therefore there could be a shortage of what they want. I was pleased to hear that his bees might even be foraging off the borage on my allotment not that far away.

Borage is blue flowered and many honey experts feel it makes the best honey. It is also the herb that should be used as an accompaniment to Pimm’s,

"When Rowan Williams was Archbishop he would always come and chat with me about the bees" ‘I pestered him to put a hive in my garden, and I followed him closely for a year. I did get my fi rst hive in my garden, the bees came from a swarm in a hotel in London that I went and collected. By that time I’d joined the Ealing Beekeepers. There’s a

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not mint as so often is served.

John Chapple has guided a boom in London beekeeping after he was elected chairman of the London Beekeepers Association eleven years ago: ‘It started with just seven of us.' He says, 'a year ago we had over 300 members. I must have done something right.’

It seems that under his rule people all over London started to keep bees. I feel though that the thing he is most proud of are the beautiful gardens that have been brought into public play because of bees. In particular he mentions the garden at Lambeth Palace on the south bank of the Thames, the London home of the Archbishop of Canterbury. He says: ‘It’s a beautiful garden. A little gem in London. It is run by professional gardeners and a group of amateur enthusiasts. It was one of our new members who found it. At one time we had eight to ten hives there. It was looked after by a group of beekeepers.

Gradually over the years they all disappeared for one reason or another.

I’m the only one with hives there now. All the honey produced there is sold within the Palace. When Rowan Williams was Archbishop he would always come and chat with me about the bees’.

Another ‘little gem’ he advises readers to visit is the wildlife garden at the Natural History museum.

In a good year a hive can produce 80lbs of honey, but recently with the poor

weather this has gone down to 25lbs. The hive will house as many as 50,000 bees at the height of the summer season. During the winter this will come down to 10,000.

The aptly named worker bees only live for six weeks in mid-summer, but bees born at that time will live all winter when they will have to be fed with a sugar solution, which can be quite expensive for the beekeeper.

He still brings honey to sell on Green Days in Chiswick, and until not long ago kept hives down by Dukes Meadows and sold the results under the title London Pride honey at Chiswick farmers market on a Sunday. ‘I called it that because we were so near to Fuller’s brewery’. Chapple explains, but he found that he did not have enough time to continue. After giving up running the London Beekeeper’s Association he was lured into becoming president of the National Honey Show, and chairman of the Central Association of Beekeepers.

And at the age of seventy he has to be aware that his job of Royal beekeeper will always come fi rst.

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ABSOLUTELY

ARTS & CULTURE

Cue the Music

As spring comes to west London, Kathryn and Nick head to one of the events happening at Chiswick House this season

T

he weather was still annoyingly indecisive as we wandered along the dual carriageway to the main entrance of Chiswick House grounds. It all seemed a bit of a swizz for spring, but at least it hadn’t rained for a couple of days, and we had been reliably informed that one of the finest shows of the season would soon be underway.

Ducking into the grounds by the North Lodge, we made our way past the grand old gatehouse and through the orchard where some of the apple blossoms were just a few weeks away from making themselves known.

It was getting on for 5.00pm as we tiptoed through the Italian gardens. ‘Where’s the cascade again?’ began Nick, looking a tad lost. The reply, which involved the phrase ‘past the Ha Ha and behind the house,’ did nothing to ease the look of confusion. Dodging through the Roman looking statues, with Kathryn taking the lead, we quickened our pace and made a beeline for the brilliant white house.

Rushing straight past the 18th century homage to Renaissance architecture we broke into a rather undignified gallop towards the waterfall where we could hear the distinctive rumblings of wind instruments tuning up. Hopping over the main wall by the cascade, we scrambled down the rounded wall of its arch and took up positions on the side of the bank.

Across the old canal, we were greeted by a gaggle of rather noisy ducks, geese and water fowl. ‘That’s not an orchestra…’ began Nick, before quickly closing his mouth lest something even more ridiculous escape, ‘Although it did sound like one,’ continued Kathryn, taking over the mantel.

Having arrived for a pleasant spot of early evening opera we were a tad confused as to why the only people in attendance were excitable birds and a smattering of families dotted across the rear lawn of the house and up and down the banks of the miniature canal.

‘They must have moved it…’ proclaimed Nick, with an air of confidence. Scrambling back up over the arch we made for all the obvious spots, the Amphitheatre by the Temple, the Napoleon Summerhouse, and in front of the house itself… we even went and checked out the cricket pavilion – but nothing.

After a quick – extremely belated – Google search we determined that, somehow, we had not only managed to get the wrong date, but also the wrong month. An impressive feat even for a pair as seemingly useless as us. So, slinking away – both sheepishly declaring that we weren’t really in the mood for Rossini anyway – we headed back towards the Chiswick High Road, confident that between us (at least) we’d be able to locate a nice pint of beer. kathrynandnick.com 22

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02/04/2014 12:00

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ABSOLUTELY

ARTS & CULTURE

Spring Fresh Clare O’Brien, the new Director of Chiswick House & Gardens Trust, talks to Absolutely about challenges, changes and camellias Congratulations on your new role.

What is your background and what attracted you to this position?

My background is in the arts and the charities sector. I am passionate about how the arts and cultural heritage can enhance and transform people’s lives and I have always wanted to be in a role that helps make this happen. I have been working at the Wallace Collection, a wonderful national museum full of important works of art and Old Master paintings. I was responsible for increasing the visitor numbers, creating events and developing the income base, all of which we would like to do at Chiswick House .

What changes do you have planned at Chiswick House & Gardens?

The Trust will take over the management of Chiswick House from English Heritage in 2015.

I am keen to encourage more visitors to this important estate – both the House and the Gardens are Grade I listed. The Gardens have undergone a significant transformation thanks to English Heritage and the Heritage Lottery Fund and other supporters. I hope we can also transform some of the interiors of the House and open the House on more days, with English Heritage’s guidance.

©Anna Kunst

Are you planning to keep the majority of the annual events and if so are you planning to change or expand them?

The 2014 event season will be the same as it has been for the last few years – this year the Dog Show celebrates its 10th year. I would definitely like to stage more events for the local and wider community and also introduce more opportunities for school groups and young people. There are so many lovely areas on the estate – three walled gardens including a kitchen garden – which are perfect for fun activities.

What events do you have lined up this year?

The 2014 event calendar is on our website. We start with Kitchen Garden Open Days which run throughout the summer, Chiswick House Friends organise two nights of open air opera in July and then we have family theatre, the open cinema and end with a Pumpkin Party in October. It is a great honour that the Chiswick Book Festival opens in the marquee by

Chiswick House in September.

Why do you think the house and grounds are so enduringly popular for both locals and tourists?

Because both the House and the landscaping of the grounds are so perfectly proportioned and pleasing to the eye. They were groundbreaking at the time of design in the early 18th century and indeed these designs influenced stately home design and estate landscaping for a century. It is a very important heritage site.

You recently held the annual Camellia Festival.

What was the feedback like?

The Camellia Festival is going well. A number of groups have come from further afield to visit the camellias, Chiswick House and Hogarth’s House. The Conservatory is looking and smelling lovely. Each camellia leaf has been cleaned by hand by our gardeners and energetic volunteers. Many visitors are taking a camellia home to enjoy. chgt.org.uk 25

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ARTS & CULTURE

Best in show

Award-winning landscape designer Cleve West has designed the garden for M&G Investments at this year’s Chelsea Flower Show. Gemma Billington meets Cleve at his Hampton office to talk Paradise Gardens and plants to suit every plot 27

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ABSOLUTELY

ARTS & CULTURE

T

he day I travel to Hampton Wick to meet award-winning landscape designer Cleve West I find myself right in the heart of Britain’s wettest winter since records began. Drowned wet and feeling most unprofessional upon arrival, I’m led to dry off in Cleve’s petite studio, nursing a mug of tea and admiring the crammed bookshelves and various sculptures and curiosities dotted about the place. Cleve is a brooding but friendly and entirely unassuming man. Even though I’m not exactly the green-fingered type, it’s hard not to be impressed by his many accolades: he’s won a total of seven RHS Gold Medals (four at Chelsea Flower Show) and three awards for innovative garden design. But, as I was to discover, Cleve is a man who is largely disinterested in awards and acclaim and who would much rather be getting his hands dirty back at his allotment, whatever the weather…

England we’re very eclectic with our tastes and we’re fortunate enough to have this amazing climate [laughs] so we beg, borrow and steal ideas from all over the world. At first glance this will look like an English garden but look closely and you can see all the structure and the elements and symbolism behind it. The wall panel at the back is a very basic metaphor for the tree of life – it’s not really in your face – the fountain is the main feature. It’s a simple metaphor for the roots of all gardens stemming from these ancient gardens. On the surface it’s

Is it a bit like the Alhambra in Granada, Spain?

Yes that’s it; we’re trying to get an essence of that. I’m not known for doing formal gardens but the feel of it warranted it. Paradise Gardens are normally much bigger, so we’re being quite adventurous trying to squeeze it all in.

Did M&G want a Paradise Garden or was it your idea?

No they were fairly flexible… the idea is that in

Speaking of allotments, you published a book on them in 2011, Our Plot. Why did you go down this route rather than doing a book on landscape design?

I think there are plenty of books about landscape design. What I like about allotments is that they’re a complete antidote to show gardens. Show gardens are very theatrical, whereas allotments are very quiet and understated and real.

It’s all about growing food and healthy lifestyle and community.

Londoners aren’t often blessed with big gardens. How would you advise someone to make the most out of a small, urban outdoor space?

Well, I’ve got a small garden… I always think that if I had to start again I’d be tempted to turn the whole thing to vegetables; have a minimal amount of paved area and just grow stuff. Even if you’ve got a small garden that you can’t turn over to earth you can always grow in containers.

You’re designing the garden for M&G Investments at this year’s Chelsea Flower Show. What was the commission?

M&G are an investment bank and they sponsor the whole show, so it’s quite a big deal. I’ve done it [Chelsea Flower Show] before so I’m not a stranger to it, but there’s still so much preparation involved.

Did M&G have a fixed idea of what they wanted or were they flexible?

They were quite flexible, they had a rough idea. They wanted it to be English – to have an English feel about it – but they were open to suggestions. I tried to weave in this idea that all the gardens around the world get their influence from the ancient gardens of Persia. I used that as a vague theme to base the garden on. The Persian gardens are called Paradise Gardens – they were basically built as a refuge from the hostility of the desert. You get shelter, shade from the trees, water from the mountain springs... It’s quite a contrast between the desert and this enclosed space.

London, but do you know of any hidden gems?

I always think Bushy Park is a bit of a hidden gem. Richmond Park gets most of the attention but Bushy Park was pretty much my playground as a kid. We’ve got an allotment on the back of Bushy Park so we still use it a lot. I think it’s undervalued but it’s a lovely, quiet sort of jewel.

What’s easy to grow?

Potatoes are easy, tomatoes, squash, beans, carrots. Things like apple trees and pear trees, you can grow them into espalier shapes flat against the wall.

There’s all sorts of things you can do.

“Allotments are a complete antidote to show gardens” quite simple but building it is a bit of a bugger!

How did you get into landscape gardening in the first place?

My great-aunt in Chiswick had a large garden and I used to help her out with that. Slowly I got in touch with my green-fingered self. I had no interest in gardening at all as a kid. We used to go to Chiswick House a lot, so I suppose all that rubbed off on me, but I just liked being outside.

There are lots of famous gardens in west

Do you think more people these days are keen to ‘grow their own’?

Yes definitely. It’s really taken off in the last few years. The only slight problem is that people don’t appreciate how much work is involved – you make it part of your life.

This is our 14th season at the allotment now and I’ve only really settled into the groove where you just take each season as it comes and don’t get too upset if things don’t go well. The social aspect is good too. Slowly over the years I’ve seen the potential of allotments in terms of keeping communities together. It doesn’t matter what religion you are, what culture you come from, everyone is equal. It’s a very simple thing but it makes people happy.

2014 marks M&G’s fourth year as the title sponsor of RHS Chelsea. 20 - 24 May; clevewest.com

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ARTS & CULTURE

In her genes

Pendle Harte discusses the dos and don’ts of denim with Made in Heaven’s Chloe Lonsdale 31

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SS 14 COLLECTION

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ABSOLUTELY

ARTS & CULTURE

J

eans may be a wardrobe staple, and we all wear them, but as everybody knows, some jeans are better than others. The good ones are fantastic: they feel great and improve with age, the bad ones sag and bag, while others are plain ugly, an instant fashion disaster. Finding the perfect pair of denims is one of the fashion world’s holy grails, and one of its main crusaders is Chloe Lonsdale, a woman whose life is dedicated to the pursuit of the perfect jean, the denim world’s manna from heaven. Her brand, aptly called Made in Heaven, revives a tradition of fashionled denim and has grown over the past seven years to span around 25 different versions of the classic jean alongside a ready-to-wear collection of clothes to wear with jeans.

Lonsdale now runs her international jeans empire from a studio in Shepherd’s Bush, and her former photographic studio office is bright and airy.

You wouldn’t think to meet her that she’s a mother of three children under the age of four. She looks too serene and unflustered – and you’d be even less likely to guess that she’s pregnant with her fourth child.

And although she produces four collections a year and has just sent all her samples to Paris for fashion week, she sees denim as ‘on the periphery’ of the fashion industry. ‘I did a

‘I’m really clear now who our demographic is because I am it’ fashion degree at Saint Martins but I didn’t have a grand plan to be the next Galliano,’ she says. Her style is understated, a winning formula for creating clothes that women just really want to wear. ‘The Made in Heaven woman is a 30-40 year old independent woman who loves fashion but doesn’t want anything challenging or complex – she wants something that fits beautifully and feels great: I’m really clear now

who our demographic is because I am it,’ she says. This Made in Heaven woman is certainly very west London – Lonsdale lives in W10, works in W6 and supplies lots of boutiques in the area, saying: ‘most of London’s fashion businesses are in east London, and we’ve got boutiques there, but we’re based west and even most of our ecommerce is in west London.’

Lonsdale was probably always destined for denim, though Made in Heaven wasn’t entirely her own idea. Her father, Tony Lonsdale, was the man who brought jeans to the UK in the 1970s – his shop Jean Machine opened on King’s Road in 1971 and became a big chain with over 100 shops by the end of the decade. He was importing Lee, Levis and Wrangler from California and stocking a smaller brand made by a friend of his, Tony O’Gorman: Made in Heaven, launched in London in 1969. Chloe’s mother, denim model Chekkie Maskell (pictured here) met Lonsdale when she was modeling Made in Heaven, and when Chloe was born in 1979, O’Gorman became her godfather.

So if anyone’s got jeans in their genes, it’s Lonsdale. When she decided to relaunch the Made in Heaven label in 2005, she had spotted a gap in the market between denim and fashion, between vintage and modern, tailored and casual. ‘No denim brands, then or now, approach dressing in the way we do. Most of them are from California and have a real jeans and t-shirts aesthetic, or they’re the more cutting edge, east coast, J Brand style sharp cuts.’ For Lonsdale, it’s about quality and longevity – ‘there’s nothing nicer than wearing a beautiful crisp white shirt in a great fabric that gets better every time you wash it, with a great pair of jeans.’ Lonsdale uses the phrase ‘great jeans’ a lot. Especially ‘great blue jeans’. Her own staple wardrobe (aside from having been pregnant ‘for the last four years’) is ‘a blue jean with a white shirt and an old leather jacket – change the shirt for the same model in black silk for the evening and add some heels – a good blue jean gives you carte blanche.’ But what makes this elusive ‘great jean’? Is it about comfort? Is it about making your bottom look good? And what about fashion? Lonsdale has strong feelings about all of this. Comfort – yes, but only up to a point. ‘A jean shouldn’t cut into you or rub, and it should feel soft against your skin, but feeling comfortable also means feeling confident. It has to flatter you. I’m not a massive advocate of super soft jeans because they go floppy and hang on every lump and bump.’ So, yes, it is about making your bottom look good.

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SS 14 COLLECTION

And fashion-wise, again, denim has rules of its own. ‘I think you should look away from what’s in fashion. A great blue jean that you feel great in transcends any fashion trend.

There was a photo in French Vogue last month of Lauren Hutton and Stephanie Seymour in old Levis 501 mum jeans and that’s got more attitude and sex appeal than any low rise skinny jean ever.’ So the great jean is a personal thing, and definitely shape dependent.

‘Whatever fashion says, a curvier woman suits a jean with a bit more fabric at the hem to balance out the hip,’ she admits.

Anyway most jeans, in recent years, haven’t really been made out of denim at all. ‘Fabric technology has moved on from proper denim and I think that’s from people wanting to wear something that feels like their pyjamas,’ she says, disapprovingly.

She is evangelical about proper denim – the weave, the wash, the shade, the texture.

The reason why many fashion brands avoid producing it is that it’s an enormously complex industry, a multi-staged process with multiple opportunities for something to go wrong, and as Lonsdale admits, a lot of wastage. ‘Denim is a very organic fabric and every time the cotton’s dyed, the batch is different in shade and texture – and each time you cut it and wash it and make it, it shrinks differently. Trying to control all those variables requires so many different layers of checks and controls.’ So now 90% of her job is overseeing production.

The blue jean is having a moment now, when just a year ago jeans came in almost any colour but blue. To Lonsdale’s clear pleasure, the new jeans room at Selfridges is a sea of blue denim. So what’s next? Launching this month is a high-tech Bodycon jean (which won’t feel like your pyjamas) and coming up is a new range of denim outerwear and denim pieces that aren’t classic jeans, like dungarees, says Lonsdale, which may not be the obvious choice for her demographic, but as she says, you’ve got to keep relevant. Still, the skinny jean isn’t going away, with many clients coming in and buying six pairs, one in each shade of the version that works best for them. So next time you’re buying a jean, think carefully: is it great? Is it The One?

‘A great blue jean that you feel great in transcends any fashion trend’

Mih-jeans.com

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KIDS & EDUCATION

W

hat are our children doing online?

Most of us have little idea and we succumb all too easily to the collective hysteria when we hear about the latest vulnerable teenager who has apparently fallen prey to the pressures of a toxic digital world. Social media, online gaming and pornography can all be easily accessed by children, yet remain alien to many parents, and what we don’t know or understand, we fear.

The media doesn’t help. The coverage earlier this year of the suicide of private-school girl Tallulah Wilson – who was apparently addicted to photosharing on the Tumblr website – was a case in point. Reams of newspaper print were given over to coverage of the telegenic teen with the papers quoting Wilson’s mother’s plea for other parents to ‘stop this poison spreading’, and calling for an industry ban on sites that promote self-harm or suicide.

The knee-jerk reaction to each of these stories is to impose censure or bans; we want to protect our children by prohibition.

But a leading child psychologist says we’ve got it all wrong.

Professor Tanya Bryon believes that the idea that we can ‘protect’ our children from the internet is unrealistic and unhelpful for them. ‘How are we going to teach children to be responsible digital citizens if we don’t engage with them?’ she says.

Prof Byron, who specialises in work with children and adolescents says: ‘There is a moral panic around the internet, this idea that it’s going to hell in a handcart …. that is irritating and unhelpful.’

Rather than demonising the digital world, Prof Byron says we must work harder to understand it and communicate with our children about what they experience online.

Speaking at a conference on the need to build ‘emotional resilience’ in today’s high-achieving teenagers, held at King’s College School in Wimbledon, Professor Byron says that risk-taking is a natural part of child development and parents need to understand that for today’s young people

Better the devil you know

A leading child psychologist says it’s time parents and schools engaged with what their children are experiencing online.

Only then can we help them negotiate the ‘toxic digital world’, says Amanda Constance much of this ‘would now take place online.’

She notes the perverse irony, particularly in middle class families where, ‘We’re telling children that it’s too scary to go outside. We don’t let them out of the door into a real community but we then ‘tech’ them up with a multi-media emporium at home and send them into a much bigger global online community that we don’t understand.’

Prof Byron thinks our teenagers get a very bad press and described the present younger generation as ‘awesome’, the most emotionally articulate and engaged ever seen.

Part of this comes through their

engagement with the wider world via the internet. ‘Through their connectivity, kids are incredibly aware, but that doesn’t always help them. Awareness without life experience can sometimes be very challenging – so it is our responsibility to bridge that gap.’

‘Digital technology is an exciting place to be. We must equip our children to cope with the bad parts’, she says. And we can only do that by knowing where they go and what they do online. Every parent should visit the sites their children visit. See what they see and read what they read, and only then can they really provide the support and guidance many teenagers

“How are we going to teach children to be responsible digital citizens if we don’t engage with them?”

desperately need.

Prof Byron told the assembled audience of heads, deputy heads and pastoral heads from many of the UK’s top independent schools that they needed to do more, too.

Banning phones or web access – as Eton did with SnapChat earlier this year – would not solve the problem. Just like parents and schools needed to be addressing the underlying issues associated with social media and online gaming sooner rather than later.

Leaving such discussions until Year 9 was ‘too late’. Many pupils will have smartphones from Year 5 onwards and schools need to be engaging with pupils about their use from then.

And old-fashioned parenting still has a role. ‘We can set limits’, she says, ‘we can say it’s time get off the screen just like we can say it’s time to stop eating chocolate cake.’

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Independent Day School for Girls aged 4–11 and Boys aged 4–13 A caring and happy school, providing an inspiring and creative education amongst first-class facilities.

Achieving high academic standards and excellent personal development within a broad curriculum.

School Open Day: 10th May 10am -12pm. All Welcome.

Beveree, 43 High Street, Hampton, Middlesex TW12 2SA Tel: 020 8979 6216

Email: office@twickenhamprep.co.uk www.twickenhamprep.co.uk

(I don’t know what I’m looking for, but I’ll know it when I see it)

Shop the latest looks with our great selection of fashion shops including Next, H&M, Primark, River Island and M&S. Tempted? www.ealingbroadwayshopping.co.uk Free WiFi

ADVERT PLACEMENTS.indd 4

Your Way

02/04/2014 13:07

ABSOLUTELY

KIDS & EDUCATION

PRINTS CHARMING

Bring the outside in with Hibou Home’s whimsical new Enchanted Wood range of printed fabrics and wallpaper. £70 per roll; hibouhome.com

KIDS Notes

Keeping them entertained

LITTLE MIX

Cookie Crumbles, an innovative cookery school in East Sheen, have added a gluten-free brownie mix to their range of kids’ baking kits.

Delicious, fun and simple to make, each pack contains 100% natural ingredients that are free from artificial colours, preservatives and hydrogenated fat, so there’ll be no guilt about licking the spoon clean afterwards. Awesome Gluten-Free Brownie Mix, £4.50; cookiecrumbles.co.uk

WISH LIST

MY OLD DUTCH

Little princesses can create their own charm bracelets with the new Little Wishes collection by Goldsmiths. From £19, available at Westfield W12; goldsmiths.co.uk

Oilily’s illustrations of windmills, tulips and canals pay homage to their Dutch origins in the new collection, though we’re assured that clogs are optional. oililyshop.com

A VERY MERRY UNBIRTHDAY

Weddings can be a tedious experience for kids, and when Chiswick mum Trish Pead witnessed a relative’s wedding descend into chaos as bored children ran amok, inspiration struck. The Mad Hatter’s Tea Table is a fun Alice in Wonderland themed addition to parties to entertain little guests. aliceinwonderlandparty.co.uk, trishpead@hotmail. co.uk or call 07785 922 424

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Before the day..

Here comes the Bride…

It goes without saying that you want to look incredible on your wedding day. So come to us to help you prepare. We look forward to lavishing our attention on you and making you feel amazing.

On your wedding day we’ll be thrilled to see you but will also be the cool, calm and collected team you need to stay happy and relaxed. Rest assured, we work with only the best make-up artists who will complement your chosen bridal look perfectly.

We’ll advise you how to look after and prepare your hair in the weeks leading up to the wedding so that it’s in the best condition possible on the day. Whether you want glossy colour for extra shine, need to boost your locks with a luxury treatment, or want a few extensions or clip-ins to give your hair extra oomph, you’ll be in good hands here.

Book any of our bridal treatments and recieve a complimentary wedding prep blow dry by quoting ‘ABSOLUTELY’ magazines

Chiswick hair salon.indd 1

28/02/2014 16:31

267-269 Coombe Lane London SW20 0RH 020 8947 9797 open Mon - Sat 9.30 - 5.30 FREE local parking

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ABSOLUTELY

FASHION & STYLE

THE THIGH’S THE LIMIT

Feeling brave? French brand Le Short have launched a cheeky new line of fashionable thigh-skimming shorts in vivid, graphic prints.

Perfect for a festival, a shopping trip in Paris, or perhaps posing on faux antique furniture... le-short.com

HANDBAGS AT DAWN

Alice Horlick, the daughter of local ‘superwoman’, Nicola Horlick, is the founder of AEVHA London, a luxury accessories brand. Barnesbased Alice designs six chic handbags per season using materials like ethically sourced python skin and camel bone. Our pick of the new SS14 collection is the classy Hanbeau shoulder bag, (pictured)which is practical but effortlessly stylish. £895; aevhalondon.com

Style Notes

MONKEY-ING AROUND

This month it’s all about short shorts and city backpacks

MICROTREND:Bright Lace Erdem taffy lace tailored trousers, £1,050; matchesfashion.com

MSGM tie-dye lace dress, £430; matchesfashion.com

Tijou lace top, £149; hobbs.co.uk

Shima flower lace pencil skirt, £139; baumundpferdgarten.com

Lace and crepe dress £199; jaeger.co.uk

Backpacks are no longer the sole preserve of schoolchildren and grubby skateboarders, and have enjoyed a surprise recent surge in popularity and appearances on the catwalks.

Cult travel accessory brand Kipling have always known that backpacks are best, and have introduced a sleek new line of city packs to their SS14 collection, which are spacious and stylish and fit into the lives of every London girl about town.

Available at Westfield W12; kipling.com

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boomerang.indd 1

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B1.2.indd 1

02/04/2014 11:18 31/05/2013 17:38

ABSOLUTELY

Can you tell us the story of Adelphe?

Adelphe really did come from a lifelong obsession with jewellery. My sister, Phillipa (pictured), and I grew up in and amongst our parents’ jewellery business and it was probably inevitable we would follow in their footsteps. I studied jewellery design and my sister used to run a jewellery shop on Bond Street before we finally decided to set up on our own. My husband (Jamie) was hoping it might cure my obsession, but I think it is worse than ever!

©Cody Burridge

FASHION & STYLE

What is your most treasured possession?

My men’s 1960s gold Rolex watch that my husband bought for me. I love its androgyny and that he chose it for me. I also like to imagine what handsome devil wore it back then.

FASHION FOCUS

What inspires your designs?

So many things. Phillipa and I travel to Jaipur regularly to source most of our collection and the sights and sounds of that city really do take you into a different world. I also think the people around you can often inspire a look or collection.

Who is your style icon?

I loved Stevie Nicks and Anita Pallenberg back in the day, and Kate Moss and Margherita Missoni just never seem to get it wrong. I love that gypsy with a dash of rock ‘n’ roll thing. I think the ‘70s would have been my era!

Who are your favourite jewellery designers?

I love Ram, Brooke Gregson and Solange Azagury, among others.

What is your favourite Adelphe piece?

So hard to choose just one, but the vintage diamond crescent necklaces are out of this world and I am currently festooning myself in diamond slice bangles, rings and necklaces.

MY STYLE Sophie Theakston, jewellery designer and founder of Adelphe

What is your favourite piece of art?

My favourite painting of all time would be Gustav Klimt’s The Kiss, and my favourite painter of all time, our friend Jonathan Yeo; a genius portrait artist and a lovely man.

If money were no object, what accessory or item of clothing would you splash out on?

A vintage burgundy Chanel handbag. And, if money really were no object, could we stretch to a Missoni coat to go with it?

Well, if you don’t ask…

What is your favourite travel destination?

I would have to say India for work travel and the Maldives for calm family time.

What do you like about living in Chiswick?

It is completely unpretentious and makes me feel that we are slightly outside the madness of London. I use High Road House a lot for socialising and work, and my children seem to think they own it.

I used to work for the company in another life and I think Nick Jones is a genius. I am so glad he saw the fabulousness of Chiswick. adelphe.co.uk 43

Mood Board_v2.indd 43

02/04/2014 12:38

SheenSports 

A family run business, supporting the local community.

Cricket clothing, equipment and accessories now in stock. A large range of tennis rackets both Junior and Adults are available with a larger selection of clothing arriving over the next few weeks.

0208 876 7273

www.sheensports.com e: info@sheensports.com

Rugby and Football boots and equipment will be held in stock over the Summer too.

353 - 355 Upper Richmond Road West, London, SW14 8QN Opening times: Mon - Sat 09:00 - 18:00

RichmondSports 

0208 949 7970

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12a, Eton Street, Richmond Surrey, TW9 1EE Opening times: Mon - Sat 09:30 - 17:30 Sunday 10:00 - 16:00

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RICHMOND SPORTS.indd 1

02/04/2014 09:25

DISCOVER innovative skincare products SEE live demonstrations of cutting-edge procedures LEARN about organic treatments, facial yoga & treat yourself to an acupuncture facelift MEET experts & gain advice on the right treatments for you GET makeover tips from Nicky Clarke, hairdresser to the stars & style your hair for a younger you TAKE home beauty secrets from celebrity speakers

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ADVERT PLACEMENTS.indd 7

02/04/2014 11:19

ABSOLUTELY

FASHION & STYLE 09

10

01

02

08

03

FLOWER POWER

FLORAL PRINTS DOMINATE THE CATWALKS ONCE AGAIN. DON’T BE AFRAID TO MIX AND MATCH; THE BOLDER THE BETTER

04

07

05

06

1. JOYTHESTORE.COM 2. MARC BY MARC JACOBS FLORAL PRINT SILK HAREM PANTS, £280; stylebop.com 3. TALITHA EMBROIDERED OPERA CAPE, £890; matchesfashion.com 4. TED BAKER MONNY SKIRT, £129; tedbaker.com 5. DOLCE & GABBANA GLAM FLORAL BROCADE CROSS-BODY BAG, £475; matchesfashion.com 6. CRANBERRY ROSE BRACELET, £6; cathkidston.com 7. SHELLEY PRINT DRESS, £55; oliverbonas.com 8. STELLA MCCARTNEY PINK FLORAL COAT, £1195; selfridges.com 9. ALMARI FLORAL DRESS, £65; closetclothing.com 10. CUTWORK FLORAL SCARF, £80; jaeger.co.uk

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02/04/2014 12:40

Gilding the lily

ADD AN EDGE TO THE SEASON'S FLORALS WITH VOLUMINOUS SHAPES AND METALLIC FINISHES

Photography: JAMES LUCAS Styling: EMMA SAVILL

Fashion Shoot.indd 46

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Emma Vivian top, £250 Topshop Unique skirt, £42 Vintage braclets, stylist's own

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Beulah bisque rose gold oil print dress, price on application Zara wedges, ÂŁ70 H&M jacket, ÂŁ39.99

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Topshop jumper, £70 Emma Vivian skirt, £280 Zara leather bag, £80 And Other Stories shoes, £45 Topshop socks, £3.50

Fashion Shoot.indd 49

02/04/2014 12:46

M&S floral shirt, £35 Beulah Iris trousers, £250 Emma Vivian leather jacket, £680 Topshop earrings, £8.50

Fashion Shoot.indd 50

02/04/2014 12:47

Emma Vivian dress, £380 Vintage beaded bag Emma Savill London necklace, £120 Topshop earrings, £8.50

Fashion Shoot.indd 51

02/04/2014 12:47

Beulah cameo orchid jacket, £495 Topshop shirt, £35 H&M skirt-dark pink, £29.99 H&M skirt-light pink, £34.99 Topshop anklet, £6.50 Earrings horseshoe orelia, £10 Nike trainers, £62

Photographer: James Lucas Styling: Emma Savill Model: Lidiia at Leni’s Model Management Makeup & Hair Stylist: Alice Oliver using Bobbi Brown and Bumble and bumble Production: BeautyandPro.com

Fashion Shoot.indd 52

02/04/2014 12:48

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03/04/2014 10:50

ABSOLUTELY

HEALTH & BEAUTY POWDER POWER

Bumble & Bumble’s Prêt-à-Powder is equal parts dry shampoo, style extender and volume in a pinch. A must have for manic mornings, its oil absorption leaves hair looking clean, fresh, and voluminous in minutes. £21.50, available from Hipzone Hair & Beauty, 67 Hammesmith Road, W14; bumbleandbumble.co.uk

BRONZE AGE

The sun is beginning to make an appearance, but you don’t have to wait until the summer holidays to achieve a sun-kissed glow.

In May, Elemis are launching a bronzing body lotion and facial moisturiser that are not only packed with antioxidants and essential oils, but gradually build an even, natural looking tan. Total Glow Bronzing Moisturiser, £29.50, Body Lotion, £34.50; elemis. com

Beauty Notes : : LIVE LIFE LOVE

GARDEN STATE

Jo Malone London believe that gardens are good for the soul, which is why they set up the Urban Community Garden Project, a charity that supports the construction and maintenance of scented gardens. Ever the philanthropists, proceeds from the new Silk Blossom home candle will go to this very worthy cause. Look out for them at the new Richmond boutique. £42, jomalone.co.uk

TOP THREE: Orange lipsticks

Deborah Lippmann Lip Colour in Call Me Maybe, £18; lookfantastic.com

By Terry Rouge Terrybly Lipstick in 400 21 VD, £33; uk.spacenk.com

Wild about Beauty Nutrilips Lipstick in Betty, £15; wildaboutbeauty.com

THE COLOUR AND THE SHAPE

Contouring is the beauty buzzword of 2014, but the experts at NARS Cosmetics have been in the know for years.

Their cult contouring collection have recently welcomed new Matte Multiples and Contour Blushers in celebration of the brand’s 20th anniversary.

Available at Space NK, 172 Chiswick High Road, W4; narscosmetics.co.uk

55

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ABSOLUTELY

HEALTH & BEAUTY

1

3 2 8

IN

4

BLOOM

8

OF THE BEST BEAUTY PRODUCTS INSPIRED BY MOTHER NATURE 5

7 6

1. Clinique Cheek Pop in Berry Pop, £16.50; clinique.co.uk 2. Paul & Joe Secret Garden Collection Eye Colour Palette, £11; asos.com 3. Crabtree & Evelyn Wisteria Eau de Toilette, £28; crabtree-evelyn.co.uk 4. Marc Jacobs Daisy Delight Edition Eau de Toilette, £48; debenhams.com 5. Clinique Happy in Bloom Perfume, £26.50; selfridges.com 6. MAC A Fantasy of Flowers Sassy Moss Fluidline, £15; maccosmetics.co.uk 7. Caudalie Small Harvests Limited Edition Hand and Nail cream, £6 each; caudalie.com 8. REN Moroccan Rose Otto Bath Oil, £30; renskincare.com

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02/04/2014 13:10

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31/03/2014 16:40

FOLLOW

US

CynoSure Elite + Laser Hair Removal The world’s No.1 Gold Standard Medical Grade Class 4 Laser Hair Removal for all skin types. Azara Skin Clinic is proud to announce the arrival of their CynoSure Elite+ Laser. Using both Alexandrite & NdYag lasers with proven results time & time again on all skin types including dark skin level VI. There simply is no better hair removal system available today!

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02/04/2014 11:22

ABSOLUTELY

HEALTH & BEAUTY

The make up INSIDER

1

3

Don’t fear orange, says Arabella Preston 2

ops of bright orange were all over the Spring Summer 14 catwalks.

Although it appears dangerously bold, it is in fact one of the most versatile and flattering shades. Easier to wear than pink, or even certain reds, orange balances greyness (which is why you might find your under-eye concealer has a slight apricot hue). There’s no reason not to apply this theory to the rest of the face, banishing tired and dry skin with bright flashes of orange.

The aim is skin that looks fresh, dewy and strokably youthful. Start by massaging Decleor’s Mandarine Serum into your face, focusing on highlight areas such as the tops of cheekbones, temples and the bridge of your nose. For light coverage, YSL’s BB cream is my go-to ‘natural glow’ product. Use the tips of your fingers to blend quickly into your skin.

The Prabal Gurung show (pictured) gave a wonderful demonstration of the uplifting power of an orange lip.

Make-up artist Charlotte Tilbury lined the lips in MAC’s lip pencil What a Blast! then filled in with the zingy Morange. As MAC Senior Artist Cher Web says: 'The advantage of wearing a bright lip is that you can keep your other make-up minimal. Pair it up with lashings of mascara for a perfectly balanced combo.'

If you need to lift your complexion a little, then an orange or coral blusher is the way to go. Pink will confuse the look. The Bobbi Brown Pot Rouge in Hibiscus is a blendable and buildable cream blush that can also be used on the lips for a more toned-down orange pout.

P

MAC COSMETICS

8

9

1. YSL Le Orange Lipstick, £25;

yslbeauty.co.uk

2. MAC Lip Pencil in What a Blast!, £14.50;

4

maccosmetics.co.uk

3. Bobbi Brown Pot Rouge in Hibiscus, £19; bobbibrown.

5

co.uk

4. Clarins HydraQuench Lip Balm, £19; clarins.com 5. Topshop Lip Cream in Pout, £7;

6

topshop.com

6. Bobbi Brown Nail Polish in Nectar, £11; bobbibrown.co.uk 7. YSL All-In-One BB Cream,

£38; yslbeauty.co.uk

8. MAC Lipstick in Morange, £15;

maccosmetics.co.uk

For more make-up tips from Arabella follow her on Instagram @arabellabeauty

9. Decleor Aromessence Mandarine Smoothing Serum,

£49.50; decleor.co.uk

7

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ABSOLUTELY

PROMOTION

Skin deep

Azara Skin Clinic announces the arrival of a brand new CynoSure Elite+ laser

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Using a combination of both Alexandrite & Nd-Yag lasers, the CynoSure Elite + can safely treat all skin types up to level VI (dark skin) effectively.

Maria Georgiou, Azara Skin Clinics owner says, ‘we are proud to have the CynoSure Elite+ laser as the latest addition to our portfolio of products and equipment. With the number of different machines that are available at the moment we wanted to be sure that when clients came to our clinic, they could be confident that they were being treated with the very best machine available for hair removal

available today. Other machines claim it but the Cynosure Elite+ proves it time and time again with unrivalled quality results. After all, it’s the results that our clients are investing in.’

Azara Skin Clinics CynoSure Elite + laser is the latest addition to a growing list of quality equipment and treatments including 3D-Lipo fat reduction, CACI non-surgical facelifts,

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31/01/2014 12:43 02/04/2014 14:29

ABSOLUTELY

HEALTH & BEAUTY BOXING CLEVER

Eighteen brave Park Club members took part in a recent charity White Collar Boxing event, attended by Boxing champ George Groves (don’t worry, he didn’t step into the ring) and TV presenter Adrien Chiles. The action-packed night (sponsored by local businesses like City Hire, Starlight, W3 Colour printers and Orchards of London) raised money for the Russ Dawkins Back on Track charity, which helps people with spinal injuries. parkclub.co.uk

FLASH DANCE

Chiswick-based luxury lifestyle clothing brand Pepper & Mayne recently collaborated with dance workout group Sleek Technique for a fitness class with a twist - a highoctane dance workout at the top of The Gherkin.

The event tied in with the launch of Pepper & Mayne’s new Signatures Collection - a sleek line of classic yoga wraps, separates and playsuits. pepperandmayne.com

Fitness First The latest tips and trends

BEST FOOT FORWARD

A SHOE-IN

Don’t dread running; all you need is practice… and a good pair of shoes.

Sporting Fitness stock a fantastic shoes from sporting giants like Adidas, Asics, and K-Swiss. They also offer free digital foot scanning and special sports insoles to help prevent injury. 9 King Street, TW9; sporting-feet.com

ANYONE FOR TENNIS?

If you still need a bit of fitness inspiration in time for summer then why not give The Gunnersbury Triangle Sports & Social Club a go. It’s a family-friendly club that boasts six artificial grass tennis courts, a bowls green, two snooker tables, an active table tennis section and karate club. If your little ones are looking to get involved, the club also has a thriving junior membership. gunnersburytriangleclub.org.uk

Did you know that a shocking 85% of people are regularly wearing ill-fi tting shoes, according to a 2010 survey by Homerton Hospital. You may also not know about National Shoe Fitting Week (12 - 18 April), but perhaps its time to take notice as, during this period, Richmondbased foot care specialists Foot Solutions are offering local residents free fi ttings. Get set on the right track with their expertise, skills and top-of-the-range equipment.

4 Red Lion Street, TW9; footsolutions.com

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02/04/2014 14:38

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01/04/2014 17:55 02/04/2014 11:26

ABSOLUTELY

PROMOTION

PARK LIFE

Adults can book private lessons with coaches and can also attend a Friday morning adult swim where you can learn to perfect your stroke. Swim smooth coach, Julian Nagi, also gives private swimming lessons and provides group Swim Squad classes five times a week. In these classes he works with a wide range of abilities, from beginners to very experienced swimmers.

These classes are all about improving your technique and stroke efficiency in the pool, and becoming the best swimmer you can be.

Perhaps an area that has grown the most over the last few years has been swim combination events. For juniors aged four and up, Julian has created a series of Aquathlons (swim and run events) with over 100 attendees per event. As a Level 3 British Triathlon Federation Coach, Julian also runs a mini sprint triathlon series at the club. From these simple fun based events, our members have moved on to extraordinary levels of success, with many

THE PARK CLUB IS WEST LONDON’S PREMIER FAMILY HEALTH CLUB. SET IN 27 ACRES OF LAND, IT OFFERS AN ABUNDANCE OF FACILITIES INCLUDING INDOOR AND OUTDOOR SWIMMING POOLS HEATED ALL YEAR ROUND

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wimming is a fundamental part of sport, relaxation and fun for members at The Park Club. For juniors there’s a team of highly qualified instructors, providing a wide range of fun, coordinated water-based activities.

It is one of the Club’s central aims to ensure that every child member here at the club is able to swim. All Park Club swim instructors

are qualified to a minimum of ASA level 2 and able to teach potential swimmers from the age of 4 months. Children’s classes are available either individually or in groups from Monday to Sunday. They are offered throughout the year, broadly divided into two categories: term-time structured lessons and holiday camps during school holidays. Children follow the ASA swimming progression guide and move through levels 1-10 until they are fully competent, confident swimmers.

completing ironman / woman events and some even GB representation.

There’s also been some incredibly inspiring swim-based events over the years for both children and adults. The club has received visits from Olympians including Rebecca Adlington, Mark Foster, Duncan Goodhew and virtually the whole GB swim team immediately after the 2012 Olympics.

The Park Club pools have also played host to some spectacular charity events.

The Underwater Dinner Party was extraordinary, as was the tea party in a Zorb Ball.

If you would like to find out more about any aspect of The Park Club please contact Marcus Philips on 020 8740 4599 or email enquiries@theparkclub.co.uk 63

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02/04/2014 14:40

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31/03/2014 16:32

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

West London Osteopaths

HEALTH & BEAUTY REVIEW

Jo Blu

Georgie Lane-Godfrey discovers what all the fuss is about at a Chiswick celeb favourite

I

sn’t it nice when something is one of a kind? When it’s a real treasure, and infinitely more special than anything run of the mill? This was pretty much my first reaction when I arrived at Jo Blu, a boutique hair and beauty salon in leafy Chiswick. When I visit on a Friday afternoon, every single styling chair of this bright, airy salon is occupied with a glamorous local getting her weekly blow dry and dose of gossip. You see, Jo Blu is a real epicentre for the community, the type of place where people just pop in to say hello as they’re passing by. Yet despite this hive of activity, Jo Blu is an oasis of calm, which makes the whole pampering experience so much more enjoyable.

Sat in front of one of the gold gilt mirrors under the central chandelier (the salon feels understatedly glamorous), the stylist happily chatted away as he trimmed my hair. After some speedy snipping, it was onto my own blow dry – a real labour of love as my

hair was painstakingly put in rollers to create some killer volume. Rolled and pinned, I was then led downstairs to experience Jo Blu’s beauty. Feeling very much like someone’s living room, the salon’s subterranean section has a more homely vibe, filled with shabby chic side tables and an elegant chez longue. I’ve opted for a manicure – a quick shape and polish in one of the new OPI shades – but there’s an impressive range of treatments on offer, from Dermalogica facials to Fake Bake tans, as well as a new non-surgical facelift treatment – very popular, I’m told. Nails now perfectly painted, I head back upstairs to be de-rollered. My freshly cut hair is big, bouncy and full of shine, almost as glossy, in fact, as my nails. I leave looking as pampered and polished as I feel and, one week later, my nails are still totally chip free – an impressive feat.

Gemma Billington gets her aches and pains sorted at a west London hidden gem

I

’ve always had problems with my shoulders and felt it was only a matter of time before something went seriously wrong. Late last year during an exercise class I felt something ‘snap’ in my right shoulder. It was painful at the time but it settled. A month or so later, however, the pain resurfaced and it grew stiffer over the course of a week. By Saturday it was agony, so I visited the emergency doctor who diagnosed me with tendonitis (inflammation of the tendons) and a frozen shoulder. Though I regained movement quickly, the pain was always there. But aren’t all us deskbound office workers ticking time bombs?

What can be done to aid recovery when work aggravates the problem daily?

Well, for starters everyone needs a good osteopath and I happened to find a great one on a quiet residential street a stone’s throw from Uxbridge Road. West London Osteopaths have been quietly treating locals for 30 years. Founded by Chairman of The London Osteopathic Society, David Tatton, originally as a one room operation, the whole building is now dedicated to the practice, complete with treatment rooms and Pilates studios. David is wonderfully cheerful (considering it’s 8:30am) and I’ve never had such a thorough appointment.

After going through my family medical history, past injuries and current gripes, David assesses my posture and guides me through some exercises. He massages my shoulders and pinpoints problem areas and tightness in my thorax and at the top of my spine. All these pains stem from the shoulder injury and over time I’ve been ignoring the problem, which results in pain elsewhere. There’s no quick fix, but David (in his words) equips me with a plan to aid recovery. Don’t accept pain as part of daily life, help is at hand and at West London Osteopaths you’ll be in very safe hands indeed.

65 Vespan Road, W12; westlondon osteopaths.com

11 Grove Park Road, W4; joblusalon.co.uk

65

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02/04/2014 14:41

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01/04/2014 17:43

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02/04/2014 11:30

ABSOLUTELY

PROMOTION Advertisement

‘I WILL NEVER BUY SHOES ANYWHERE AGAIN’ ‘I WILL NEVER BUYELSE SHOES ANYWHERE ELSE AGAIN’ Recruitment manager Andrea Mahn had so much foot pain she could barely walk.

This fit and active 40-year-old had been suffering from Plantar Fasciitis - a painful inflammation of the tissue on the sole of the foot.

“I was treated by an osteopath, a physiotherapist and a sports therapist but nothing really eased the pain,” explained Andrea.

As her job involves a lot of standing and walking, life was becoming unbearable. She was also unable to partake in her favourite hobby, running.

Then Andrea saw an advert for Foot Solutions and decided to pay them a visit. “I turned up hoping that someone would be able to help me,” she said. “and it was the best decision I have ever made.

“The staff were knowledgeable, helpful and attentive and after half an hour of tests and examinations they found a solution.

It was the most fantastic service I could have imagined.”

Foot Solutions provided Andrea with custom shoe inserts and a special device to help stretch her Recruitment manager feet at night.

Andrea Mahn had so “The device gave me immediate much foot pain sheme to relief from the pain, allowing sleep better and when the could barely walk.inserts were fitted in my shoes they made

T

a huge his fitdifference.” and active 40-year-old had

been suffering from Plantar Fasciitis

“I had faced infl theammation prospect of never – a painful of the tissue wear high heels – but onbeing the soleable of theto foot.

I can now wear for up “I was treated by anthem osteopath, a to 14 hours if necessary.” physiotherapist and a sports therapist but nothing really eased the pain,” “I don’tAndrea. suffer at all anymore. I can explained doher myjobjob and go without As involves a lotrunning of standing and walking, life was becoming unbearable. constant pain.

I will never buy She was also unable to partake her favourite shoes anywhere elsein again.” hobby, running.

Foot Solutions 4 Red Lion Street Richmond TW9 1RW Telephone 020 8940 1814 www.footsolutions.co.uk/richmond

Then Andrea saw an advert for Foot Solutions and decided to pay them a visit.

“I turned up hoping that someone would be able to help me,” she said, “and it was the best decision I have ever made.

“The staff were knowledgeable, helpful and attentive and after half an hour of tests and examinations they found a solution. It was the most fantastic service I could have imagined.”

Foot Solutions provided Andrea with custom shoe inserts and a special device to help stretch her feet at night. “The device gave me immediate relief from the pain, allowing me to sleep better and when the inserts were fitted in my shoes they made a huge difference. I had faced the prospect of never being able to wear high heels – but I can now wear them for up to 14 hours if necessary.

“I don’t suffer at all anymore. I can do my job and go running without constant pain. I will never buy shoes anywhere else again.”

Foot Solutions, 4 Red Lion Street, Richmond, TW9 1RW. Tel: 020 8940 1814 www.footsolutions.co.uk/richmond

WE MAKE FEET HAPPY!

Correct footwear and arch supports can improve balance and posture and relieve pain.

At Foot Solutions, our trained consultants use high-tech foot scanning equipment and gait analysis to help find the perfect customised footwear and arch supports for your feet.

Visit our RICHMOND store today TO ARRANGE A FREE FOOT ANALYSIS call: 020 8940 1814 email: richmond-surrey@footsolutions.com FOOT SOLUTIONS, 4 RED LION STREET, RICHMOND, TW9 1RW /footrichmond @footrichmond

A short walk from Richmond station, opposite Pizza Express www.footsolutions.co.uk/richmond

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HOME & GARDEN

SECRET

GARDEN Cast a stylish shadow in your garden with a bespoke lantern by luminary light designer Charles Edwards

GENGHIS GATEPOST LANTERN, FROM £1,452 582 & 575 KING’S ROAD, SW6; CHARLESEDWARDS.COM

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Interior Opener.indd 69

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HOME & GARDEN

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THE GREAT OUTDOORS

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www.thesofaandchair.co.uk FULL PAGE.indd 2

01/04/2014 09:35

SPRING SALE STARTS NOW Visit our Showroom now to enjoy a glass of champagne and discover exciting spring offers on our collection and homeware ranges.

4-5 Roslin Road, London W3 8DH FULL PAGE.indd 3

01/04/2014 09:35

ABSOLUTELY

PROMOTION

IN THE

KNOW

IF SPRING HAS INSPIRED YOU TO GET ON WITH SOME HOME IMPROVEMENTS, MAKE SURE YOU WORK WITH THE RIGHT PEOPLE, SAYS DUNCAN GUNN AT RRA ARCHITECTS

N

ow that spring has well and truly sprung, getting out into the garden to enjoy the warmer weather is a good thing to do if your home will allow. Spring is not only a time to dream of getting outdoors; it is the ideal time to think about adding value to your home.

Get the right team together, and with good advice from an architect, you could be realising that extra space, connecting with your garden, or reorganising the layout of your home to suit your needs, all in time for summer.

For a cost-efficient and timely design, which works for you and your family, the key factor is to get the right professional advisor. They will help you fulfil your aspirations.

In my 25 years of experience, the most successful projects begin with selecting a team which will give you the best advice and help you plan your project from start to completion. At RRA architects we advise clients of the three main ways of procuring their project: using a builder and dealing directly with them; using the services of a one-stop-shop company; and using the services of an architect to advise you throughout the project, with an architect’s certificate issued for completion, adding real value to your home.

Liaising directly with a local builder should only be done if you have had previous experience of project management. Although the builder may have been recommended to you, it is vital that you fully understand how the builder will manage the project and what responsibilities you will have. Speak with their previous clients and ask them about their experiences when things, perhaps, weren’t going so well. Most importantly, make sure you have a contract with the builder, clearly describing the work they will do, for what price and in what time. You can order JCT householder contracts online from the RIBA bookshop.

Your project may require planning permission and, in which case, you may need

to get more professional advice. The onestop-shop, loft and extension companies provide a design service and projectmanagement, including applying for planning permission, although most often they subcontract these services.

The one-stop-shop approach is very good for cost and time certainty but can often be limiting in terms of your design flexibility; you may find your request for a design, which is truly bespoke, falls upon deaf ears. Again, you must ensure you have a good contract with your chosen company and that you are sure of your responsibilities. In almost all projects, the one-stop-shop company will not deal with party wall matters and you may have to seek additional advice on works which affect adjacent properties.

If you are looking for a truly bespoke project and want the comfort of knowing that a professional advisor is acting for you throughout your project, then you should appoint an architect who will guide you through the process from start to completion. Your architect will advise you on planning applications, building regulations and the building contract.

At RRA Architects we will do as much or as little as you want, depending on your experience, and we will also be able to advise you on other consultants you may need, such as an engineer or party wall surveyor a building project in your own home is an emotional process and it is vital that you choose your architect carefully. We have lots of project experience, from complete rebuilds to a modest back extension; all of them tailored to meet the clients’ needs.

So with the future looking bright, now is the time to start planning that new project and choosing how you might go about it.

In my opinion, that early decision you take about who you want to work with, may be the most important one of the entire project.

If you are thinking about planning a project and adding real value to your home you can contact Duncan at: info@rra-arch.com

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GCA Architects Advertorial.indd 74

02/04/2014 15:05

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www.rra-arch.com/london GCA ARCHITECTS.indd 1

02/04/2014 11:34

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26/02/2014 10:51

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HOME & GARDEN THE SOUND OF SILENCE

John Lewis and sound quality aficionados Quiet Mark joined forces to produce the eyecatching Quiet Treehouse, which was unveiled to the public at this year’s Ideal Homeshow. Created by luxury tree house designers Blue Forest and illuminated by John Cullen Lighting, the Quiet Treehouse showcases the best in Quiet Mark awarded technology and will make an appearance later this year at the Hampton Court Flower Show. quietmark.com

FRESH AND FUNKY

Interior Inspirations

West London based Melodi Home’s beautiful handmade lampshades and hand-painted lampstands come in vibrant colours and and bright Ikat fabrics, making them the talk of the town in the interiors world. melodihorne.com

Absolutely the best trends, local gems and designers HEAVEN SCENT

GREY DAY

Not only the colour of choice for the (terrible) literary phenomenon that is Fifty Shades of Grey, the colour grey is the current muse of luxury furniture makers John Sankey. Classy, versatile and always chic – pop into Chiswick’s long-standing department store Daniel for a browse of the current collection. 396 Chiswick High Road, W4; johnsankey.co.uk

Scented candles are no longer the unimaginative gift they were once perceived to be. Of course The White Company have always known this, and their new earthy, garden inspired scents will bring the outdoors indoors beautifully. Available at Westfield W12; thewhitecompany. com

ON A PLATE

South African artist Ruan Hoff mann has teamed up with Anthropologie for a range of botanically-adorned plates and serveware. Whimsically peppered with one-word affi rmations of love and laughter, they’re classic and contemporary – and there’s matching wallpaper, too. anthropolgie.eu 77

Interior Inspirations.indd 77

02/04/2014 15:07

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Ashburn_Carpets.indd 2

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HOME & GARDEN

ight plant, right place is what I was taught. It is so easy to get swept up in the bright summer displays in garden centres and nurseries and tempting to plant impulse purchases in difficult and challenging spaces. Although hope over experience can get you so far, with conditions such as those of a shady border, it is much wiser to select your plants with planning and care.

A shady border need never be dull. Texture is the key to adding interest, but before we consider plants we should evaluate the aspect. There is shade; gentle and dappled with shafts of bright light at different times of the day, and then there is shade; dry, dark and unforgiving. Needless to say if you have the conditions of the latter then that is rather unfortunate and establishing any planting will be a labour of love.

Most often shady gardens are shady because of overhead tree cover, so they’re dry too. Preparing your ground is vital.

Well rotted organic matter, pH appropriate to your site should be incorporated in and around the generous planting hole. Prior to planting deluge, use two or three full two gallon watering cans of water into each hole before you put the plant in to

R

Shady lady Absolutely gardening contributor Kate Gould offers advice on getting the best results from challenging spaces

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Kate Gould.indd 79

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HOME & GARDEN

Some plants to consider for a successful partly shady border: Shrubs

soak the surrounding earth. Let the water drain away and then place the plant in the hole, backfill with the original soil mixed with new organic matter, top soil, fertiliser and compost and then a final water and a mulch over the top to prevent water loss through transpiration. While the plants are young, watering will be vital throughout the drier months.

It is tempting to buy larger specimen plants to start a scheme, but in shady spaces starting small (2-3L) is more likely to produce better and quicker results than planting a mature shrub.

Smaller plants establish better and will attune themselves to the location and conditions much more easily.

Colours that work best in the shade are, not surprisingly, whites, pale blues and pinks. These light shades help to brighten a dull space and work well against the foliage shades of dark green supplied by most shade loving shrubs.

In order for your shady area to be successful, the key is in the preparation and research. Prepare your ground well and choose plants that the RHS’s A-Z of Garden Plants states as shade tolerant, or for a more contemporary approach, websites such as crocus. co.uk and shootgardening.co.uk are extremely informative and provide excellent advice. Taking the time to plan your border means that a once difficult space could be transformed into a colourful border that provides interest throughout the seasons.

Kate Gould is an award-winning garden designer and a regular exhibitor at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show where she has been awarded three Gold medals. kategouldgardens.com

Bulbs

HYDRANGEA VARS

CROCUS SPECIOSUS

Leaf: Deciduous Colour: White, blue or pink Size: 2m x 2m

Leaf: Deciduous Colour: Blue, pink, white and purple Size: 10cm high

Do not let them dry out as the flowerheads will not develop. For an easier approach stick to white varieties which are reliably white regardless of soil pH.

Plant in a massed group underneath Cornus vars or spring flowering shrubs. For added impact plant groups of Helleborus close by.

SARCOCOCCA VARS Leaf: Evergreen Colour: White Size: 1.2 x 1.2m Highly scented in the winter so plant where you will appreciate the scent.

Sarcococca and Daphne vars with Deutzia make a great combination.

ANEMONE BLANDA Leaf: Deciduous Colour: Blue, pink, white and purple Size: 15cm high Anemone blanda look best on a sunny spring day in bold swathes in a woodland and combine well with ferns, emerging Hosta and Paeonia leaves and white Narcissi.

DICKSONIA ANTARCTICA

ERYTHRONIUM ‘PAGODA’

Leaf: Depending on your climate Dicksonia can hold their leaves all year.

Colour: Green Size: A mixture of 3, 4 and 6’ plants are a good combination

Leaf: Deciduous Colour: Yellow Approx Size: 50cm x 30cm

Great for a tropical looking scheme with other ferns.

Nodding yellow trumpet-like flowers are held on plants in groups. These woodlanders combine well with ferns and blue flowered bulbs.

RHODODENDRON VARS

CONVALLARIA MAJALIS

Leaf: Evergreen or deciduous Colour: White, blue, pink, red, yellow, orange, purple, mauve Size: From 1m to large tree-like forms

Leaf: Deciduous Colour: White Size: 30cm x 20cm

Appreciative of shade and adds colour to spring borders. Acidic soil is important but if your soil is pH neutral then the acidic ratio can be added via specific food from garden centres.

Lily of the Valley will spread to form wide clumps if allowed and their scented blooms are an added bonus.

Best planted at the edge of a border under shrubs where they can be kept in check.

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02/04/2014 15:17

Shutters that put the wow in window

Handcrafted from the finest materials. Custom made in our dedicated manufacturing facility. Finished in any colour you can think of and fitted only by our skilled carpenters. With our beautiful hardwood shutters, the one thing that shines through is quality.

Call us today on 01273 761484 to see how we can add a touch of va va voom to your room. shutterlyfabulous.com

SHUTT_FAB.indd 2

27/03/2014 12:08

West London Carpentry & Decoration

BESPOKE DESIGN AND

BUILD

Window shopping Beautiful new timber windows

tim@westlondoncarpentry.com 07795 411400 www.westlondoncarpentry.com

CURTAIN CALL

Decorating for Spring

Wanting to update your rooms with lovely fresh new fabrics?

Curtain Call in Richmond have a wonderful collection of fabrics and blinds to order, including the new ranges from Clarke and Clarke with fabrics from £14 per metre

Many beautiful gifts

Over 100 designs of reading glasses Large range of doorstops and draught excluders

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020 8332 6250 • curtaincall@blueyonder.co.uk

Curtain Call.indd 1

01/04/2014 11:41 11:58 02/04/2014

ABSOLUTELY

PROMOTION

A DESIGN FOR LIFE LOOKING FOR SOME UNIQUE INTERIOR INSPIRATION? LOOK NO FURTHER THAN THE ELEGANT TEDDINGTON SHOWROOM OF JENNY BLANC

J

enny Blanc is one of those best kept secrets, loved and admired by all those in the know.

Located on Teddington High Street, where their showroom window often stops passers-by in their tracks, they are a destination for all things stylish and beautiful for home interiors and gifts.

Mention Jenny Blanc and you will hear comments such: “This is so inspiring.”, “I’ve been looking for something different like this everywhere.”, and: “I’ve never seen another showroom like it.”.

Following the creation and opening of Le Manoir aux Quat’ Saisons in Oxfordshire with her former husband, Raymond Blanc and The Maison Blanc Patisserie chain, Jenny Blanc, together with Chrissie Marshall, set up their beautiful lifestyle showroom in 1996, followed by a second design showroom in Barbados in 2011. The Teddington address is also the base for the internationally renowned Design Studio from where all projects, UK, Caribbean and elsewhere in the world are executed and coordinated by a team of experienced and talented designers, led by Design Director, Sue Thomas-Richardson and Jenny Blanc.

The elegant showroom is the perfect place for all those final touches needed to make a house your own. Each piece has been carefully selected by Jenny to meet her exacting standards for style and quality. There are beautiful cushions and throws, exquisite glass, a wonderful choice of all things practical and beautiful for wining and dining, unique ornaments and objets, fabulous scented candles and fragrances, photo frames and bedroom and bathroom accessories. You will also find a range of Jenny’s comfortable own brand sofas and dining chairs plus a carefully selected collection of furniture, lighting,

mirrors and artwork. There is a huge library of the best fabric collections with a curtain making and upholstery service.

If you are finding the process of decorating your home timeconsuming and complicated, the unique Room-by-Room service is designed to make this process trouble-free. Run by Chrissie Marshall, the Showroom Director, and the showroom team, it helps you decorate your home one room at a time.

Jenny Blanc also offers a highly personalised, bespoke Wedding List service designed to help any couple make their selection and to simplify the present buying process. Gifts selected from the showroom will always be exceptional and will grace a home for a lifetime. If preferred, friends and relatives can make a part contribution towards the more expensive items and gift vouchers are also available.

If your home needs a lift, if you are looking for a unique gift for any occasion or if you just feel like treating yourself, make your way to Jenny Blanc.

Jenny Blanc, 59 Teddington High Street, TW11; jennyblanc.com 83

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HOME & GARDEN

Party people In an extract from her new book, Outdoor Living, Kingston-based author and interior stylist Selina Lake offers advice on how to create a fabulous garden fiesta

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garden room is the perfect place to hold a birthday party, as the inside/outside location works in all weathers. If you don’t have a dedicated garden room, you could use a greenhouse or conservatory, or erect a small marquee in the garden. To create a fiesta theme, I used a mix of Mexican oilcloths and masses of bright, bold colours. I tied floral lanterns to a string of festoon lights outside and strung up Mexican papel picado bunting and Chinese lanterns inside.

A

Here’s How:

FIESTA CAN VASES In keeping with the Mexican theme, I created these easy vases out of cans to display flowers. I bought a mix of food cans with interesting labels try a large supermarket or a specialist delicatessen. Once you’ve used the contents, wash the inside of the cans taking care not to wet the paper labels.

Fill them with fresh water and arrange the colourful flowers into posies. The cans also make great cutlery/flatware pots.

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HOME & GARDEN

Here’s How:

DECORATING WITH RIBBON I keep a bag of ribbons handy so I can pull out the perfect colour whenever is required. Cutting ribbon with fabric scissors gives the neatest edge.

Ribbon is the prettiest way to hang up decorations. Here I suspended neon-pink string across the room and attached each lantern (from online party shop Pippi) at regular intervals with a piece of red ribbon tied in a bow.

Ribbon is a great way to decorate chairs - you could attach ribbon streamers to the back of a chair or wrap a length of ribbon around one corner and tie it in a bow.

Tie ribbons around napkins and wrapped gifts.

or this birthday party, the garden tables were dressed with Mexican oilcloth from Viva La Frida, which I cut to size. I then used the off-cuts to re-cover some of the old chairs, simply by stapling the oilcloth to the back of the seat pads.

I completed the revamp of the chairs using a mix of green, red, pink and yellow spray paint and emulsion/latex paint. Piñatas, which are decorative papier-mache containers that are hung up and then broken with sticks to release the sweets inside, are a traditional feature of Mexican celebrations. Make one in the shape of your chosen initial - such as that of the birthday girl or boy - and decorate it with tissue-paper fringing.

F

Outdoor Living

by Selina Lake, Photography by Debi Treloar. Published

by Ryland Peters & Small. Outdoor Living will be available to Absolutely readers for the special price of £13.99 including postage & packaging (rrp£19.99) by telephoning Macmillan Direct on 01256 302 699 and quoting the reference GLR 9NE.

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HOMES & INTERIORS

Home Truths

What is G&G doing to celebrate its 40th birthday?

40 is a big milestone for us, we’re very proud to be able to celebrate this anniversary.

To commemorate the occasion, we are designing a very special limited edition 40th anniversary collection. The pieces we’re creating reference key items from Graham and Green that really encapsulate the vibe and the aesthetic of the brand.

Classic pieces are being re-imagined and redesigned from our archive, and being brought bang up to date with modern twists through pattern, colour and design.

Th is range will be launching in the summer, and we can’t wait to showcase it to our customers, who are so important to us as part of the G&G family; we wouldn’t be celebrating our 40th without them. We’re also working closely with small artisan suppliers, whom we’ve had relationships with for years, to create bespoke products for G&G in celebration of the birthday.

What are the highlights of the current stock?

Spring is such a great time to refresh and invigorate the home through interiors, and much more fun than spring cleaning! It’s a season we really enjoy working on. One of our favourite pieces in the new catalogue is the rustic French farmhouse extendable dining table and the Florentine Provencal style ceramics to match. It is a sublimely fresh look and perfect for re-invigorating your dining space after a long, dark winter.

As Graham & Green celebrates 40 years in the business, Absolutely catches up with James and Louise Graham

Jamie, having grown up with the business what’s your earliest memory of it?

I remember being fascinated by the exotic thoroughfare that arrived at my mother’s house after her world travels with her brother, my uncle, Joss. Th ings I’d never seen before, in fact things that most shoppers in the UK hadn’t seen before, from far reaches around the world became part of everyday life. I fondly remember the beautiful antique textiles and kilims and interesting ornaments found in markets across the world, it was like being in Aladdin’s cave. I hold this dear when buying and designing for the company now as it’s part of the G&G DNA. Can you briefly highlight the differences between G&G in 1974 and G&G today?

The landscape in which the brand exists has changed vastly over the years, with the evolution of the high street, which didn’t exist in its modern incarnation in the ‘70s, through to our fi rst catalogues and now online shopping. Our customer is also the savviest they’ve ever been, not just in terms of value and quality, but also in

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HOMES & INTERIORS trips now. It’s a passion we share and we feel this really comes through as part of the G&G look and feel. We’ve always had a unique product offering and Jamie’s exclusive furniture designs further cement G&G as a real destination for customers who are looking for inspiration, and for unique and exotic pieces for their home.

inspiration and interior design ideas. It’s so fantastic to see such passion in interiors and is something that has enabled us to go from strength to strength. It’s so important for us to remain flexible as a retailer, whilst looking for new ways to excite and inspire our clients; but we always stay true to the uniquely identifiable foundations that G&G was built on.

What are your bestselling pieces?

We have a vast collection of bestselling pieces, too many to name but some of our real classics are our bone-inlay pieces which are always wildly popular as they are signature G&G, and make a classic investment for the home. The linen deconstructed armchairs and our UK made velvet sofas feature in our top 10 bestselling products regularly.

What about the next 40 years?

That’s a big question! We have some exciting plans in the pipeline for this year which we’ll be announcing in due course. Who knows, in 40 years’ time our son Max, aged 6, could be running the show – he’s already showing sparks of passion for interiors and is very creative, he’s started collecting old tools that he picks up at antique shops and has been known to turn our kitchen into a carpentry workshop from time to time – thankfully the kitchen counters and cupboards are still in one piece.

Tell us about your own house. Is it very Graham and Green?

It’s a real mix – we like to pick up one piece for the home on every buying trip we go on, so we’re building up quite a collection.

When we moved in, we were able to start from scratch as it was a real project, but there are some charming features that made us fall in love with the house that we have kept to this day. We really wanted to put our own stamp on the place and make it

“Defining our style is a challenge as it’s fluid, it’s always evolving and changing”

grahamandgreen.co.uk

a liveable space for the family that’s both a visual pleasure to be in but also functions in a practical way for everyday life. We have a mix of G&G pieces in the home, new and from seasons past; these sit comfortably beside one-off market fi nds and pieces we have inherited from our families. I have a beautiful collection of my granny’s paintings that are hanging in our kitchen and very treasured to us all and Lou has an heirloom French sofa in the sitting room that’s lovingly worn among other things.

What is it that characterises the G&G style?

Defi ning our style is a challenge as it’s fl uid, it’s always evolving and changing, however there are key traits that have always been part of the G&G heritage. Travel and exploration is a huge infl uence, from when Antonia would travel the globe in the infancy of the company to our buying and research

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All aspects of home refurbishment kitchens, bathrooms & bedrooms

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Friendly atmosphere, good food and an extensive wine collection we would like to think Lala is simply unrivalled!

Sporting a cafĂŠ, deli, restaurant and bar, conveniently placed in the heart of Hammersmith, Lala is the perfect destination for a quiet meal for two, family gathering, business meeting, after work drink, or pre theatre eat.

For guest lists, events, promotions and parties in the basement, call us on 07976 511 579 or email info@lalaw6.com

2-4 Queen Caroline Street, Hammersmith, London, W6 9DY For restaurant table bookings call 020 8600 0200 or email reservations@lalaw6.com

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FOOD & TRAVEL

EAST IS EAST

Vietnamese street food restaurant Pho has opened their tenth site on Chiswick High Road. The fresh and authentic menu includes Vietnamese coffees, cocktails and beers, Asian salads and curries including, of course, pho – a delicious noodle soup which is the national dish of Vietnam. 134 Chiswick High Road, W4; phocafe.co.uk

DELI BELLY

Acton-based cookery teacher and Radio 4 panellist Angela Malik has recently opened the Modern Asian Deli in Ealing. Offering a range of Brit-Asian inspired cuisine, the deli will cater to all your hunger needs, with sandwiches, pastries, curries, salads and even a dedicated 'lassi bar'. angelamalik.co.uk

Bite Sized

Absolutely essential food news

THAT'S THE SPIRIT

Inspired by travels in Africa and the great explorers of the past, Elephant Gin is a lovingly crafted, copperdistilled gin that's fresh on the London bar scene. Sharing a deeprooted love of Africa, the founders made sure to use only the fi nest and most authentic botanicals, and a whopping 15% of their profits goes to elephant conservation charities. elephant-gin.com

SWEET ESCAPE

Flo Broughton, the Twickenhambased founder of chocolatiers Choc on Choc, recently met with national treasure Mary Berry on an episode of her whimsical BBC series, Mary Berry Cooks. Aside from sharing chocolate tips with Mary, Flo and the Choc on Choc team have found time to add new lines to their products including these decadent truffles. choconchoc.co.uk

THE SPICE ROUTE

When brave budding entrepreneurs face the dragons from the hit BBC series they either leave victorious or seriously burnt, but when former City fi nancier Vini Aujla and her husband Bal entered the Dragon's Den they secured a £50,000 investment to boost their curry sauce business. Forget your usual kormas and tikka masalas, these stir-in sauces are authentic, delicious and so easy to use. £2.79 each, available at Sainsbury's Chiswick, W4; viniandbals.com

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to fork

From field

Spring is officially in season, and with it comes a multitude of fresh, enticing new ingredients full of natural goodness. Absolutely has collected tips and recipes from the best local sources to tickle your tastebuds Illustrations by EDWARD TAYLOR

Watercress & pea risotto

By Skye Gyngell, former Head Chef at Petersham Nurseries

INGREDIENTS (Serves 4)

METHOD

Prep: 10mins /Cooking: 25mins 100g watercress, roughly chopped 1tbsp olive oil 1 onion, finely chopped 1 clove garlic 400g risotto rice 150ml dry white wine 750ml hot vegetable stock 150g frozen peas 1/2 tsp freshly grated nutmeg 25g freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Heat the oil in a large heavy pan, add the onion and sautĂŠ for 4 mins until soft but not coloured.

Add the garlic and rice and cook for 1 more minute, stirring.

2 Add the white wine and cook stirring for 2-3 mins until most of the liquid has been absorbed.

Add a ladle of the stock and cook for 2-3mins, gently stirring occasionally to prevent 1

sticking until the liquid has been absorbed. Repeat until you have just a little stock left and the rice is almost tender.

3 Add the remaining stock, peas and nutmeg. Cook until the rice is soft and creamy.

Remove from the heat. Add the watercress and cheese and seasoning to taste. Serve straight away. watercress.co.uk

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FOOD & TRAVEL

INGREDIENTS (Serves 4)

Apricot, parsley and hazelnut crusted rack of Texel lamb with balsamic shallot gravy

2 x 8 bone racks of Texel lamb (French trimmed) Salt and pepper 1 tbsp chopped blanched hazelnuts 3 slices of thick wholemeal bread (crusts removed) and crumbed 2 tbsp chopped flat leafed parsley 8 dried apricots chopped 50g soft butter For the balsamic gravy 6 large shallots diced 100ml balsamic vinegar 400ml lamb stock 1 sprig of rosemary 1 tsp apricot jam 1 tsp corn flour Knob of butter

By Matt Reuther, Head Chef at Princess Victoria METHOD Preheat oven to 200°c. Season the racks with salt and pepper and place fat side down in a hot pan or roasting tray that has been heated on the stove. Fry for a few minutes until the 1

fat renders and browns, then seal the meat sides before removing from the pan/tray. Remove the fat drippings.

2 Toast the hazelnuts under the grill until golden; mix with the crumbs, parsley and apricots and soft butter, and season with salt and pepper.

3 Pat the crumb mixture on the fat side of the two racks and put back on roasting pan/tray.

4 Roast the racks for 20 minutes, remove from the oven and allow to rest.

For the Gravy 1 Take the roasting pan/tray from the lamb racks and place back on the stove, add the shallots and fry for 5 minutes until golden brown, add the balsamic vinegar and reduce by half, now add the lamb stock and rosemary and bring to the boil.

2 Simmer for a few minutes then add the apricot jam, mix a little cold water with the corn flour and whisk into the sauce, simmer for a few more minutes. princessvictoria.co.uk

Crab & pink grapefruit salad From How to Cook by Leiths School of Food & Wine

INGREDIENTS (Serves 4) 2 pink grapefruits 2 small cucumbers 2 red Asian shallots 400g white crab meat 1–2 mild red chillies 2 handfuls of baby watercress or rocket 6 tbsp Asian fried shallots 2–3 limes 40–50g palm sugar 3 tbsp nam pla (fish sauce)

METHOD Peel and segment the grapefruit and place in a large bowl. Peel the cucumbers, halve lengthways, deseed and finely dice. Halve, peel and finely slice the shallots and add them with the cucumber to the grapefruit, then add the crab meat. Halve, 1

de-seed and finely slice the chillies and add to the bowl, then add the watercress or rocket.

2 To make the dressing, juice the limes. Mix the palm sugar, nam pla and 2–3 tbsp lime juice in a small bowl and set aside. Taste and adjust the balance of sweet and salty.

3 Pour the dressing over the ingredients in the bowl and toss gently to coat evenly.

4 Divide the salad between 4 plates or bowls and sprinkle over some fried shallots. leiths.com

Note: Asian fried shallots are available in jars from Asian food stores.

Alternatively, you can fry your own sliced shallots until golden and crisp.

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FOOD & TRAVEL

Chiswick Garden Patch cocktail

By Fredi Viaud, Head Bartender at Charlotte’s Bistro

MIX TOGETHER: 1 spoon of homemade carrot & ginger purée* 25ml honey infused with rosemary 20ml lemon juice 3 twists of black pepper 40ml Chase Great British extra dry gin

*CARROT & GINGER PURÉE 1 kg carrots 100g fresh ginger 1 scoop caster sugar 250g butter

METHOD Peel and slice carrots and ginger Melt butter into a pan. Add sliced carrots, ginger and caster sugar, then cover the top of the pan with cling film, and put it back on the heat.

Cook until carrot and ginger are soft 3 Strain the mixture, put cooked carrots and ginger into a thermomixer and blend. Add some strained juice to adjust density of the purée, then allow to cool.

1

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In season... Asparagus Ray Brown, Director of Food at Geronimo Inns (Gastro pubs including The Bull’s Head and The Eagle in Shepherd’s Bush)

Asparagus is in season in May. We get ours from Friday Farm in Kent, which is also where we get our strawberries from. I would recommend cooking asparagus simply and without over-complicating it. We make duck egg coated in spiced breadcrumbs with asparagus used as ‘dippy soldiers.’

We also sometimes serve a salad of couscous with quinoa and spring herbs served with grilled asparagus.

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The Inte rview

Lorraine Angliss Award Winning Restaurant Owner & Entrepeneur

With three award winning restaurants it is in no doubt that there is little Lorraine can do better...

What makes you tick?

I love watching my guests enjoying the food, the drinks, the ambience and having a great time, it’s priceless. This is what truly motivates me and inspires me to work hard and strive for creating restaurants that are well loved.

“We have a great team that work exceptionally hard, and they have to work with me everyday!” _Lorraine Angliss

Rock & Rose is testimony to your talent, why do you think people love it?

I think people love it because I have such high standards and I am my worst critic. I’m constantly reviewing what we do. We have a great team that work exceptionally hard, and they have to deal with me everyday!

What would you say is the most important part of running a restaurant?

Knowing your audience. A question I always ask myself ‘who are my customers & what do they want?’ Providing the best experience, meeting their expectations and as a business showing how grateful we are. www.rockandroserestaurant.co.uk

Rock & Rose, 106 - 108 Kew Road, Richmond, TW9 2PQ rockrose.indd 2

Top Table

Top Din er Rated

01/04/2014 09:39

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Kamares Greco-Italian Fusion Restaurant

H

ere at Kamares, we are a family-run restaurant, that has served Twickenham, for 31 years.

All home-cooked, unpretentious food. With a quality our customers expect, and deserve! We specialize in Greek Cypriot food, for example: Meze (take your time and enjoy), or slow-cooked lamb Kleftiko, Souvlaki, and Mousaka. Along with prime matured succulent chargrilled steaks, and other meats, seafood, Italian favourites - home made breads and pizza, including vegetarian options.

We cater for any size group, from individual, to complete private hire of premises, and anything in between.

We also offer a take-away service, on a collection-only basis. Mention ABSOLUTELY when reserving, to receive a little treat. We shall be open for the Easter weekend. (Closed Bank Holiday Monday)

128-130 Heath Road, Twickenham, Middlesex TW1 4BN,

020 8892 9875 / www.kamaresfusion.com / info@kamaresfusion.com Kamares.indd 1

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FOOD & TRAVEL

RESTAURANT REVIEW

Food for the soul

Once rivaling Ronnie Scott’s, The Bull’s Head has been reinvented as a sleek gastro pub

O

ver-looking the Thames, The Bull’s Head is steeped in musical history. It has played host to some of the most famous and respected jazz musicians of all time including Humphrey Lyttleton, George Chapman and the legendary Tubby Hayes, while other musical luminaries such as Jeff Beck and Mick Jagger also played there during its hey day in the 1960s. Given The Bull’s Head’s significance in London’s cultural and artistic heritage, it’s little wonder that it’s still as popular today as it ever was. But more than simply a venue for music, the restaurant came highly recommended and it is for this purpose my girlfriend and I ventured down to the banks of the Thames and into Barnes.

Recently refurbished, The Bull’s Head is chic and fresh, with its bar in the centre creating as lively and convivial an atmosphere as you would expect.

The restaurant itself is set just back, allowing the pub’s natural bonhomie to filter through without becoming obnoxious. Once seated, we turned our attentions to the new menu which did not disappoint. Featuring gastroequivalents of classic pub staples, it was a menu that offered comfort and sophistication in equal measure. To begin, I decided to opt for the pigeon breast, served with baby gem lettuce, peas and pancetta. It was hard not to be impressed, with the richness of the pigeon complimented perfectly by the crisp lettuce and smoky pancetta. We also went for the classic combination of scallops with smoked bacon, given a slight, imaginative twist in being served cauliflower and balsamic vinegar. Both were delightful, perfectly balanced dishes. Our appetites racing, we moved onto the headline acts. The flat-iron steak served with parmentiere potatoes and rocket was everything you could hope for. Perfectly cooked steak is an often underrated skill but one demonstrated with aplomb in this

dish. Our other selection was a baked aubergine with peppers, goat’s cheese and hazlenuts, giving it a beautiful mix of textures, colours and flavours. Having enjoyed a wonderful bottle of wine, we were very relaxed in our surroundings and looking forward to our final course which, as it turned out, was the best of all. I decided to go for the cheese board, which featured wonderful British cheeses and home-made chutney.

However, it was overshadowed as the

magnificent pear tarte tatin, served with salted caramel ice cream was every bit as good as it sounds, if not better.

Given its enviable location, rich history and sensational food, The Bull’s Head is a must-visit establishment and one I would whole-heartedly recommend for food and music lovers alike.

By Jeremy Horne thebullshead.com

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FOOD & TRAVEL

T he Crown Amersham

THE HOTEL

THE RESTAURANT

The Crown is an olde worlde Elizabethan coaching inn that’s been tastefully rejigged to suit the mores of the modern guest. The hotel appeared in the film Four Weddings and a Funeral, and it’s clear why: a homely, antiquarian aesthetic is applied throughout, with the understated furnishings and old tones conjuring the kind of warmth set designers kill for.

Despite the authenticity of the place, a make-over by interior designer Ilse Crawford (she of Soho House fame) has brought the hotel sharply up-to-date without losing any of its charm.

The restaurant is elegant enough for an evening out (as well as another lesson in interiors, thanks to its rustic industrial touches). The bar, too, is equally welcoming, with tasteful throws littering the timber benches. Moreover, the food is worth the trip alone: locally sourced ingredients from hand-picked suppliers are the key to the pub’s winning take on hearty, British classics. No stodge and nothing boring here: just the kind of grub to make rainy nights indoors feel like a blessing rather than a curse. The desserts are a real highlight – the peanut butter ice-cream is the stuff room-service heaven is made of.

THE ROOMS

THE AREA

Crawford’s design scheme tends toward the minimal, which means rooms that exemplify the building’s working roots. Clean lines and crisp linens are punctuated by the bright red of Roberts radios, while more traditional, spartan touches come in the form of sheepskin rugs and Jakobs wool blankets. Rooms vary in size, with larger ones in the main inn and family suites with four-poster beds facing the outer courtyard. These all come with rainforest showers and a roll-top bath in the bedroom.

A bevy of charming, timber-clad pubs line Amersham’s picture-perfect High Street, though The Crown, (as its name suggests) sits head and shoulders above the competition. The thoroughfare is an architectural historian’s dream, spanning five centuries and everything from Elizabethan inns and Georgian mansions to cute Victorian cottages. Most of the buildings have been sympathetically turned to new purposes, as dinky delis and inviting boutiques; it’s a contemporary Cranford, but in the best possible taste.

THE DAMAGE

Rooms in the main inn start at £129 and includes breakfast.

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www.fishermeredith.co.uk 06/01/2014 11:01

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FOOD & TRAVEL

Charm SOU T H ER N

Georgie Lane-Godfrey discovers Italy’s unspoilt idyll: Puglia

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V

oglio prendere in prestito un fuoco al mano,’ I plead to the two puzzled women in front of me. ‘Un fuoco al mano?’ – I mimic lighting a cigarette, and they look even more bemused. Unfortunately for me, there’s no such thing as a ‘fuoco al mano’ but I can’t for the life of me remember the word for a lighter. ‘Hand fire’ will have to do.

They crease up their wizened faces, trying desperately to understand me. Apparently I no longer speak Italian (that’s two years of uni down the drain then) and so they decide to enlist the help of a male companion from inside the house.

I’m in Puglia, southern Italy, about five miles from the pretty white-washed town of Ostuni aka la città bianca. Yet despite this proximity, it’s remote, and I’ve spent near on an hour wandering down country lanes in the hope of finding an inhabited house. When I finally stumble across one, it’s the dogs who greet me first, a motley crew of ragged mongrels who bound up barking, then happily trot alongside me as I approach the two stationed before me.

The women are old, their faces weathered

The heel of the boot that is Italy, Puglia is as far south as you can go, a road to nowhere except the sea and, of course, they speak absolutely no English. But after much frantic gesticulation, their friend (or brother or lover, who knows?) seems to understand me and produces a lighter from his pocket (an accendino in Italian, in case you were wondering). When I promise to return with it imminently, they smile in amusement, waving me off as I depart. I’m pretty sure they don’t have a clue what I’m saying, and the confusion on their faces upon my return confirms this.

But if you visit Puglia yourself, you’ll understand that this exchange is in no way surprising. The region is rural, and poor, and the pace of life here is a lot slower.

The heel of the boot that is Italy, Puglia is as far south as you can go, a road to nowhere except the sea. And there is a lot of sea. Puglia is blessed with over 800km of glorious coastline, which during offseason is often deserted and, during high season, is only marginally more crowded.

It’s a quaint corner of Italy, still relatively unspoilt by the tourist hoards and, as such, throws up its own charming conundrums.

One of those is where to stay. Although you can find five star hotels in the region, they aren’t as replete as in the rest of the country so choice is limited. You’re much better off renting a villa as we did – try The Thinking Traveller collection (thethinkingtraveller.com), which provides luxury villa rentals in Puglia, Sicily and the Ionian Islands. We stayed at Trullo Pinnacolo, a stylish modern villa designed

by French architect Fabrice Bejjani and only completed last year. It’s pretty remote, and you have to trundle down rough country lanes lined with dry stone walls (akin to those you’d find in Yorkshire) in order to find it. But find it you will – The Thinking Traveller made sure of that, providing us with detailed instructions with accompanying photos so that we find our way to the high electric gates easily and punch in the security code, holding our breaths as they swing open before us for the first time.

We needn’t have worried; Trullo Pinnacolo is stunning. Built into a hill, the round trullo provides the apex of this stylish modern villa, which drops down in stages to the striking black mosaic tiled pool of the slickly designed terrace overlooking the rolling olive groves typical of the region. Cool and contemporary, it’s packed with all the creature comforts you could possibly want – design-led interiors, six sophisticated ensuite doubles, a daily maid service, Sky TV, two outdoor eating areas and that all-important barbeque (hence the quest to find the lighter).

It’s easy to see that it’s been a labour of love for Bejjani, transforming the

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traditional trullo into a contemporary conversion. These iconic trulli are a familiar sight in the region, conical limestone buildings scattered across the Puglian countryside. The oldest surviving ones are thought to date back to the 16th century, but you’ll be hard pressed to find them. Trulli were built as temporary structures without cement so that they were easy to construct and dismantle again whenever their occupants needed to leave town in a hurry (read: when the tax man appeared). Providing cool accommodation in the summer and a warm and cosy retreat in winter, trulli are undoubtedly the architectural calling card of the region. You’ll find the largest cluster of them in the picturesque town of Alberobello, one of Puglia’s two UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The other site is the Castel del Monte in Andria, built by Frederick II in the 13th century – a symbol of Puglia’s rich history.

Weaving together the cultures of the ancient Greeks, the Romans, the Byzantines and the Normans, it was the Spanish Bourbons who left the most prodigious mark. After the rustic charm of the trulli, a visit to the town of Lecce comes as something of a shock to the senses. Puglia’s baroque

As beautiful as Lecce is, it's the bucolic trulli dotted amongst the olive groves which reflect the real Puglia

masterpiece, Lecce is an abundance of awe-inspiring architecture with ornate facades adorning almost every corner. La Basilica di Santa Croce is the crowning jewel, its design so intricate that it took almost 200 years to complete. But it’s not just all about the baroque – there are also Norman masterpieces to discover, such as the Church of Saints Niccolo’ and Cataldo – an austere Norman church adorned with fussy Italianate 17th-century decoration, a brilliant visual representation of the regions history.

As beautiful as Lecce is, it’s the bucolic trulli dotted amongst the olive groves which reflect the real Puglia. An agricultural region, Puglia produces 40% of Italy’s olive oil and 17% of its wine, with a focus on reds – the most widely grown grape variety, Negroamaro (which translates as ‘black bitter’), is almost exclusively cultivated in Puglia. What’s more, the food here is simple and rustic – la cucina povera – and the region’s signature dish, orecchiette con cime di rapa, little ear-shaped pasta with turnip florets, is wholesome and unpretentious – much like Puglia itself.

Rural, charming and unspoilt, Puglia is a taste of a bygone Italy; the quaint pastoral idyll you imagine southern Italy to be. Go there before everyone else does and spoils it. Just remember to brush up on your holiday Italian first…

Think Puglia’s Trullo Pinnacolo sleeps up to 12 in 6 bedrooms. From €9,850 per week, prices include daily maid service and weekly linen change, towels, a comprehensive guide to the villa and the local area, and Think Puglia’s award-winning service with 24/7 local support.

Call 020 7377 8518 or visit thethinkingtraveller.com.

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riven past that roundabout just after Twickenham Bridge as you leave Richmond of late? The rather sad oval of muddy grass, a few bare trees and a couple of huts has, finally, begun its transformation. Exotic planting should soon match specialist Sunvil Holidays’ exotic range of tailor-made holidays.

From £3,650 pp (two sharing), including seven nights’ B&B accommodation (three in Buenos Aires, four at The Vines), return flights and private transfers with a personal driver-guide. Trip extensions possible across Latin America. Sunvil Traveller (020 8758 4774, www.sunvil.co.uk).

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GIC The Villa Collection offers the most secluded properties in little-known areas of Greece, giving guests an authentic experience of the country’s culture and wonderful landscapes. GIC seeks out private retreats oozing charm, most with their own pool, perhaps with a breathtaking view from the terrace or just a short stroll from a secret beach. They range from a stylishlyrenovated windmill to a luxurious sevenbedroomed property with a relaxing spa.

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The Vines Resort & Spa is set in 1,500 acres of private vineyards, with 22 villas (think

private deck, hot tub, wood and stone décor) tastefully reflecting the natural palette of the surrounding Uco Valley. So-called Gauchos, The Vines’ own combination of guide, concierge, storyteller and companion in one, will take you horse riding, biking and exploring. Cuisine is courtesy of internationally-acclaimed chef Francis Mallmann, and you’ll learn about the wine production process – from planting vines yourself to labelling bottles – with wellknown winemaker Santiago Archával. The sommelier will introduce you to hundreds of the best Argentine labels, and a state-ofthe-art spa awaits…

Genevieve, an historic Edwardian saloon launch honoured to take part in the Thames Jubilee Pageant in celebration of the Queen’s 60-year reign, celebrates her own centenary this year. Celebrate with her by enjoying a £100 reduction on the normal price of a classic cruise along the River Thames; trip suggestions include a cruise to picturesque Henley-on-Thames. Built in 1914 of mahogany and teak, the 40-foot river cruiser has been lovingly restored. Moored at the Freebody Boatyard, Hurley, and with seating for ten passengers, all trips are accompanied by a captain and his assistant so that you can enjoy the passing scenery with your guests.

From just £50 pp for a four-hour charter (half day, full-day or evening options).

Sunvil Holidays (020 8758 4797, www.vintagethamescharters.com).

Call 020 8568 4499 (www.sunvil.co.uk) for holiday inspiration and to learn more about the Sunvil family’s wide range of bespoke holiday experiences (Europe, Scandinavia, Latin America and Africa).

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But is this good news for all?

Are waves of first time buyers finally making it onto the property ladder? Or are prices being pushed up in London by foreign buyers seeing property simply as a good investment? Buying property instead of bonds?

We are told mortgage lending is getting easier and it is the case that lending is up and interest rates still low.

As a conveyancer I have noticed that the market is picking up although in my experience the market has been slower to recover than the soaring price rises may indicate. For anyone thinking of buying in the current market I would bring to their attention a couple of pitfalls to beware of.

Firstly, beware of the short lease. Some properties which appear good value at first blush may come with a hefty price tag in terms of extending the lease and if the lease is shorter than 80 years then some lenders will not offer a mortgage. Therefore any extension would have to be part of the initial purchase and the price may suddenly look less exciting.

The other problem I have come across is the sale of properties with solar panels. House owners often see the addition of solar panels as a form of investment; fuel saving as well as eco-friendly. However, at the point of installing the panels the roof space may have been leased to the service provider and this can cause problems at the point of resale. Before a mortgage would be granted the mortgage provider may require the lease is purchased from the solar company. This can be an unforeseen additional cost.

For all your property and conveyancing needs please contact Caroline Sugrue of Rowberry Morris on carolinesugrue@rmrichmond.co.uk or 0208 334 4860. Prices for straightforward conveyancing from £625 plus VAT 111

IPAD AD VERTICAL.indd 1 Rowberry Morris Advertorial.indd 111

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28/03/2014 09:34 09:37 08/01/2014

MAY 2014

ABSOLUTELY

PROPERTY

St James Court, Brooks Road, W4 This four bedroom townhouse has brilliant family accommodation arranged over four floors.

The loft has been converted and would make a wonderful bedroom. With a garage and off-road parking, this really is a must see home.

ÂŁ1,250,000 Freehold Winkworth, Chiswick / 020 8994 7096; winkworth.co.uk/chiswick

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You may know us from walking your dog, local charity events or simply recognise a familiar face.

Because many of our agents live where they work, they really understand what matters to buyers and sellers there. And because people know us, time and again we are able to sell and let properties more quickly and at a better price than anyone else.

BRIANNA JOSS L E T T I N GS M AN AG ER

Brianna is an enthusiast in every department of life and none more so than in her love of Brook Green. Having worked locally for many years, Brianna can be found supporting many community events and activities, playing tennis on the green and still manages to let local properties at breakneck speed.

C H E L S E A 0 2 0 7 5 8 9 6 67 7 — K E N S I N G T O N 0 2 0 7 7 9 5 42 8 8 N O T T I N G H I L L 0 2 0 7 2 2 1 4 8 0 5 — L A D B R O K E G R O V E 0 2 0 7 2 2 1 0 3 3 0 — B R O O K G R E E N 0 2 0 76 0 3 51 8 1 L A N D & N E W H O M E S 0 2 0 7 3 1 3 7 7 1 1 — P R O P E R T Y M A N A G E M E N T 0 2 0 7 2 2 1 0 0 9 9 — C O M M E R C I A L 0 2 0 7 9 8 5 07 1 5 W W W. B EC TIVE .CO.U K FIND US ON

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P H OTO G R A P H S BY T I M CO L E W W W.TI M - CO LE .CO M

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Lisgar Terrace

WEST KENSINGTON W14

Burnaby Gardens

CH ISWI CK W4

A grand and imposing Victorian terraced house (201 sq m/2,160 sq ft approx.) located on a quiet residential street in West Kensington. This family home is beautifully presented having been extremely well maintained by the same family for over twenty years. 5 bedrooms, dressing room, 2 bathrooms, 2 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, dining room, cloakroom, utility room, front & rear balconies, garden. EPC Rating D.

An imposing double fronted, detached family home (192 sq m/2,067 sq ft approx.) with separate garage and off street parking, tucked away on this quiet residential street in Grove Park. Having undergone recent refurbishment of a high standard, the house is presented in excellent condition. 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms (2 en suite), 2 reception rooms, kitchen, utility room, cloak room, garage, off street parking, garden. EPC Rating C.

FREEHOLD £2,250,000 B R O O K G R E E N O F F I C E 0 2 0 76 0 3 51 8 1

FREEHOLD £1,650,000

Blythe Road

Blythe Road

BROOK GREEN W14

B R O O K G R E E N O F F I C E 0 2 0 76 0 3 51 8 1

BROOK GREEN W14

Thoughtfully configured, this extremely bright and spacious upper maisonette (96 sq m/1,033 sq ft approx.) has undergone extensive refurbishment. The interiors are fresh and contemporary with neutral colour schemes and solid Oak flooring across the second floor. The property has a good flow while enjoying excellent proportions. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, reception room, kitchen, dining room, loft storage. EPC Rating D.

A beautifully presented ground floor flat (76 sq m/818 sq ft approx.) in the heart of Brook Green has undergone extensive refurbishment and boasts many special features throughout. The flat is entered at ground level where a generous porch can be found. 2 bedrooms, bathroom, open plan reception room/kitchen, storage room. EPC Rating C.

LEASEHOLD £795,0 0 0 B R O O K G R E E N O F F I C E 0 2 0 76 0 3 51 8 1

LEASEHOLD £695,000

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CHELSEA

COMMERCIAL

0 20 75 89 6 67 7

020 7985 0715

KENSINGTON

LAND & NEW HOMES

020 7795 4288

020 7313 7711

NOTTING HILL

PROPERT Y MANAGEMENT

020 7221 4805

020 7221 0099

LADBROKE GROVE 020 7221 0330 FIND US ON

BROOK GREEN 0 2 0 76 0 3 51 8 1

Sinclair Road

BROOK GREEN W14

Porten Road

BROOK GREEN W14

A unique and large flat (79 sq m/850 sq ft approx.) occupying the whole of the raised ground floor of this substantial Victorian terraced house. The property offers excellent proportions with notably high ceilings and tall bay windows in the reception room and bedroom. Bedroom, bathroom, reception room, kitchen, storage room. EPC Rating D.

A stylish and sophisticated garden flat (63 sq m/678 sq ft approx.) of generous proportions converted from a stucco fronted Victorian terraced house. The flat has recently undergone extensive refurbishment and is contemporary with neutral colour schemes and wood flooring. Bedroom, bathroom, reception room, kitchen, conservatory. EPC Rating D.

SHARE OF FREEHOLD £685,000 B R O O K G R E E N O F F I C E 0 2 0 76 0 3 51 8 1

LEASEHOLD £620,000 B R O O K G R E E N O F F I C E 0 2 0 76 0 3 51 8 1

Masbro Road

Caithness Road

BROOK GREEN W14

BROOK GREEN W14

A charming and bright first floor flat (43 sq m/463 sq ft approx.) located on this sought after street in the heart of Brook Green. The flat is entered on the raised ground floor of a Victorian terraced house and is nicely proportioned, with access to a rear roof terrace off the reception room. Bedroom, bathroom, reception room, kitchen, roof terrace. EPC Rating D.

A charming and bright second floor flat (44 sq m/473 sq ft approx.) formed from a Victorian house and located just off Brook Green itself. The property is well presented and enjoys a dual aspect, flooding the space with light. The reception and kitchen to this property enjoy beautiful views over local gardens. 2 bedrooms, bathroom, reception room, kitchen. EPC Rating C.

SHARE OF FREEHOLD £550,000 B R O O K G R E E N O F F I C E 0 2 0 76 0 3 51 8 1

SHARE OF FREEHOLD £495,000 B R O O K G R E E N O F F I C E 0 2 0 76 0 3 51 8 1

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Netherwood Road

BROOK GREEN W14

St Dunstans Road

BARONS COURT W6

A stunning family home, with exceptional entertaining space and fantastic sized bedrooms is available to rent on a popular road close to the Central Line. This well designed, extremely modern house has masses of built in storage and benefits from a private roof terrace and wooden flooring throughout. 5 bedrooms, 2 shower rooms, en suite bathroom, reception room, kitchen, roof terrace. EPC Rating D.

A wonderfully light, newly refurbished house that benefits from high ceilings and stripped wooden floors throughout. This is the perfect family home with a huge amount of storage in the cellar and the loft, good size double bedrooms and quality finish throughout.

4 bedrooms, bathroom, shower room, double reception room, kitchen/breakfast room, cellar, garden. EPC Rating E.

UNFURNISHED £1 ,150 PER WEEK B R O O K G R E E N O F F I C E 0 2 0 76 0 3 51 8 1

UNFURNISHED £850 PER WEEK B R O O K G R E E N O F F I C E 0 2 0 76 0 3 51 8 1

Woodstock Grove

Milson Road

SHEPHERDS BUSH W12

BROOK GREEN W14

A beautiful, bright and spacious flat, with an impressive garden and roof terrace available for a short term let. This garden flat is situated just a short walk away from the Westfield shopping centre and the Central Line or Holland Park underground stations. 2 bedrooms, bathroom, reception room, kitchen, garden, roof terrace. EPC Rating C.

A spacious and smart refurbished garden maisonette, on a very popular quiet road in Brook Green. The property offers a large reception room with an adjoining dining room boasting beautiful wooden flooring and fantastic storage space that opens onto a private patio garden. 2 bedrooms, bathroom, reception room, dining room, small study, semi open plan kitchen, garden. EPC Rating D.

FURNISHED £650 PER WEEK (SHORT LET) B R O O K G R E E N O F F I C E 0 2 0 76 0 3 51 8 1

FURNISHED/UNFURNISHED £520 PER WEEK B R O O K G R E E N O F F I C E 0 2 0 76 0 3 51 8 1

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CHELSEA

COMMERCIAL

0 20 75 89 6 67 7

020 7985 0715

KENSINGTON

LAND & NEW HOMES

020 7795 4288

020 7313 7711

NOTTING HILL

PROPERT Y MANAGEMENT

020 7221 4805

020 7221 0099

LADBROKE GROVE 020 7221 0330 FIND US ON

BROOK GREEN 0 2 0 76 0 3 51 8 1

Edith Road

WEST KENSINGTON W14

Masbro Road

BROOK GREEN W14

A well presented, redecorated flat with good size patio garden and ample fitted storage throughout situated on the ever popular Edith Road. This spacious flat has been thoughtfully extended and benefits from its own private entrance. Edith Road is an ideal location for the many local nurseries, schools, shops and transport links. 2 bedrooms, bathroom, en suite shower room, reception room, kitchen with dining area, garden. EPC Rating C.

A very smart, modern one bedroom property that has been recently refurbished to an extremely high standard has become available for short let. The flat benefits from wood flooring and a small patio area.

Masbro Road is situated in the heart of Brook Green and offers great transport links. Bedroom, shower room, reception, kitchen, patio.

EPC Rating C.

UNFURNISHED £515 PER WEEK B R O O K G R E E N O F F I C E 0 2 0 76 0 3 51 8 1

FURNISHED £495 PER WEEK (SHORT LET) B R O O K G R E E N O F F I C E 0 2 0 76 0 3 51 8 1

Sinclair Road

Sinclair Road

BROOK GREEN W14

BROOK GREEN W14

A bright and spacious flat situated on the second floor in a well maintained stucco fronted building on this popular street. The property is decorated with neutral colours throughout and benefits from a good reception room with dining area and a well equipped separate kitchen. 2 bedrooms, bathroom, reception room, kitchen.

EPC Rating C.

A spacious flat with a unique and fully landscaped garden which has been completely refurbished to provide modern space with good fitted storage and a quality finish. Sinclair Road is in a very convenient location just a short walk from the Central Line at Shepherd’s Bush and the many amenities at the Westfield Centre. Bedroom, bathroom, reception room, kitchen, garden. EPC Rating D.

PA R T F U R N I S H E D £ 4 3 5 P E R W E E K B R O O K G R E E N O F F I C E 0 2 0 76 0 3 51 8 1

UNFURNISHED £385 PER WEEK B R O O K G R E E N O F F I C E 0 2 0 76 0 3 51 8 1

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IN THEIR OWN

WORDS GEORGE BASKERVILLE

Sales Manager at Marsh & Parsons, Askew Road Photography: Rebecca Noonan

O

riginally from Shropshire, I made the moved to London for university following an enlightening twelve months travelling around the world.

At university I did a sandwich course in Business Studies and spent my third year working for a property investment company based in the city. It was my time working there that got me excited about the industry and after graduating I joined a large London agency. I was initially attracted to working in property as you’re dealing with people every day. The great thing with this industry is that that no two days, clients or properties, are the same. I still get just as excited today as I did after my first exchange. I thrive on assisting people who are selling their properties and enjoy overcoming obstacles that arise through the conveyancing process.

Having worked across central and west London for many years, I was excited to be given the appointment of Sales Manager at our new office on Askew Road, which opened in March this year. Having such a wide range of clients and properties, from 1 bed flats to substantial London town houses on roads such as Ashchurch Park Villas and Rylett Road is just one of the main reasons I love working here.

It’s also great being situated so close to the

Ginger Pig and Laveli. The area has some fantastic pubs like the Anglesea Arms and good green spaces such as Ravenscourt Park, which I love to visit when I get chance!

The market last year and the first quarter of this year has been very strong, driven by the volume of buyers and the limited amount of stock available, and this doesn’t look to be changing anytime soon.

However, to celebrate the opening of our new office we are offering to sell people’s property for free up until 13th June. It’s a great promotion, which has had a fantastic response! Just be aware, the property must be under offer and with solicitors by 6pm on the 13th June for a seller to be able to take advantage of this.

This area has such potential and I believe we are only seeing the start of it.

With buyers being priced out of Notting Hill, Holland Park, Brook Green and Chiswick, W12 and W3 are their next stop.

Following the opening we have also had a great response from buyers, either calling in or coming into the office to register to buy through us. I look forward to meeting you soon!

� 020 8102 0123; marshandparsons.co.uk

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

Our dedicated West London branches include • Brook Green • Ealing • Chiswick • Hammersmith

KFH_MAY.indd 2 adverts_May-June.indd 3 KFH MASTER brand

31/03/2014 11:28 15:32 25/03/2014

05.1

Chancellors Street, Hammersmith, W6 Guide price £1,200,000 Freehold Hammersmith 020 8563 9633 Email shm@kfh.co.uk

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A three double bedroom Victorian terraced house offering two bathrooms and a double reception room leading to an eat in kitchen and a patio garden.

This property is situated on a sought after road, in a peaceful backwater location between Hammersmith Broadway and the River Thames.

• • • • • • •

Three double bedrooms Two bathrooms Double reception room Eat in kitchen with patio Extensive fitted storage Close to transport links EPC rating E

31/03/2014 11:48 15:32 28/03/2014

Strand on the Green, Chiswick, W4 £1,695,000 Freehold

A beautifully presented five bedroom riverside house offering 1,837 sq ft of accommodation, a mature rear garden with citrus trees and banana plants and three off street parking spaces.

Chiswick 020 8987 0090 Email sck@kfh.co.uk

Located in the prestigious area of Strand on the Green, this property offers stunning views over the River Thames and Kew Bridge and benefits from excellent transport connections.

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• • • • • • •

Five bedrooms Two reception rooms Fully fitted kitchen Three bathrooms Rear studio/garage 42ft landscaped garden EPC rating C

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05.1

Springvale Terrace, Brook Green, W14 Guide price £1,500,000 Freehold Brook Green 020 3542 2020 Email sbg@kfh.co.uk

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A delightful four bedroom terraced house which offers over 1,700 sq ft of accommodation arranged over four floors.

This property is located in the heart of Brook Green, close to Kensington (Olympia) and Hammersmith stations and local amenities.

• • • • • • • •

Attractive period terrace Four bedrooms Large kitchen/diner Cellar Secluded garden Sought after location Close to Westfield Shopping Centre EPC rating D

31/03/2014 11:49 15:32 28/03/2014

Green Avenue, Ealing, W13 £2,300 pcm Unfurnished

Stunning three bedroom, two bathroom Victorian house located in the catchment area for Fielding Primary School and offering easy access to Northfields underground station and Lammas Park.

• • • • • •

Three bedrooms Two bathrooms Period features Close to Northfields tube station Good transport links EPC rating D

Ealing 020 8799 3899 Email lel@kfh.co.uk £210 tenancy agreement fee per property. Other fees apply, visit kfh.co.uk/lettingsfees

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05.1

Montgomery Road, Chiswick, W4 £3,012 pcm Furnished

A three double bedroom house in Chiswick situated minutes from Chiswick Park train station. The property offers a lovely kitchen/ breakfast room and a beautiful rear garden.

• • • • • •

Three double bedrooms Double reception room Modern kitchen/breakfast room Two bathrooms Private garden EPC rating D

Chiswick 020 8987 0099 Email lck@kfh.co.uk £210 tenancy agreement fee per property. Other fees apply, visit kfh.co.uk/lettingsfees

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New homes and developments.

Using our network of over 50 branches across the Capital, our specialist teams can find the right new build property for you. To see all our new homes and developments for sale visit kfh.co.uk/newhomesproperties

King Street, Hammersmith, W6 Prices from ÂŁ1,400,000 A collection of beautiful new build townhouses set around a desirable residential square. These stunning houses offer both three and five bedroom accommodation with outside space and underground gated parking. Show home now open. Completion Spring 2014. Freehold.

Land and New Homes 020 8222 7200 Email newhomes@kfh.co.uk

Gayford Road, Hammersmith, W6 Prices from ÂŁ1,680,000 A superb development of newly built houses with excellent family accommodation arranged over three floors. The houses have a high level of specification with designer kitchens, stone work tops and a comprehensive range of appliances. Easy access to tube stations and shops. Show home due May 2014. Freehold.

Land and New Homes 020 8222 7200 Email newhomes@kfh.co.uk Computer generated images

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15:33 31/03/2014 15:15

ABSOLUTELY Property

Luxurious Lettings

Lowdown

for Landlords Why should I have an inventory?

W

e believe that every Landlord has a huge investment both financially and often emotionally in their rental property. This requires protecting in the best possible way. At Philip Wooller we employ a local independent inventory company who have been covering the area for over a decade.

Using an independent inventory company gives you peace of mind that nothing is rushed and therefore will not be missed off the inventory. It also ensures that disputes at the end of the tenancy do not get personal, and are resolved quickly as all parties have confidence in the supplier. A good example of possible contention is the definition of fair wear and tear. I believe, that like everything else, you get what you pay for so never go for a bargain inventory.

Jennifer Christodoulou Lettings Manager at Philip Wooller

� 020 8811 2929; philipwooller.com

�

An immaculate and beautifully presented one bedroom apartment.

S

et on the third floor of this attractive mansion block in a popular area of Chiwick, is this exceptional one bedroom property which boasts a stylish modern fitted kitchen, a large and bright reception room with stunning feature fireplace, double bedroom and bathroom. Tenant fees apply; ask for details.

Details

Fauconberg Road, W4 £350 Per Week

Contact

Chesterton Humberts, Chiswick 020 8747 3133; chestertonhumberts.com

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AWA R D

WINNING

Meadvale Road, Ealing, W5

ÂŁ1,150,000

Orchards of London are delighted to offer to the market for sale, in immaculate condition and boasting stylish and spacious interiors, this stunning four bedroom family home, located moments from North Ealing Primary School in Pitshanger. The property comprises a spacious reception room, a breath taking open plan kitchen diner with stunning modern features, unique lighting and folding doors leading out to a south facing patio garden. Meadvale Road is located just moments from Pithanger Lane and its fabulous selection of shops, cafes and restaurants.

7 Station Parade, Ealing Common, London, W5 3LD Tel: 020 8992 4242 enquiries@orchardsoflondon.com

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THE ORCHARDS OF LONDON DIFFERENCE

King Edwards Gardens, Acton, W3

£3,700,000

An incredible seven bedroom detached family home offering generous living and entertaining space, located in a popular road on the Ealing/Acton borders. The property comprises an extensive ground floor offering five reception rooms, a good size kitchen with kitchenette, downstairs bedroom and bathroom, amazing storage, a bright and spacious workshop and private garage, as well as a beautiful landscaped garden. Further benefits include a substantial gated driveway. Located close to Ealing Common and Acton Town Stations (Piccadilly and District lines).

Maldon Road, Acton, W3

£807 per week

Orchards of London are delighted to offer to the market this fabulous five double bedroom family home, finished to an excellent standard throughout, benefitting from two bathrooms and a roof terrace, located in the popular Poet’s Corner of Acton. The property comprises a large double reception room with wood floor, guest cloakroom and a stunning kitchen/breakfast room ideal for entertaining. Further benefits include a decked roof terrace.

Tenancy charges may vary. All Fees stated are exclusive of VAT. Preparation of Tenancy Agreement &/or Change of Occupancy: £200 (per tenant), deposit, check-in Fee £195 (optional). End of the tenancy agreement: Check out fee of £195 if the property has an inventory conducted on tenancy commencement. Renewal Fee of £195 which falls due after initial fixed term. Contract change £200. Rent advertised does not include any additional services such as council tax, water or utility charges unless stipulated otherwise.

82 High Street, Acton, London, W3 6QX Tel: 020 8997 0076 enquiries@orchardsoflondon.com

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AWA R D

WINNING

Birch Grove, Acton, W3

OIEO £2,000,000

Orchards of London, as sole agents, are delighted to offer this architect designed home, finished to an exceptional standard. Built over four floors with artistic and insightful interior design, the space and light will provide any family with ample living space. Boasting a modern open plan kitchen, living and dining space on the lower ground floor with a stunning skylight. Birch Grove is highly regarded as a prime location within the borough of Ealing.

Blakesley Avenue, Ealing, W5

£2,308 per week

A truly exquisite seven bedroom family home in a premier Ealing location, boasting superb accommodation and generous living and entertaining space, with a breath taking 180ft rear garden and gated off street parking. The property benefits from beautiful period features and Lutron lighting system throughout and comprises three large reception rooms, an amazing kitchen diner with Aga oven and excellent natural light. The property is located close to many local amenities in Haven Green and Ealing Broadway (District, Piccadilly, Central and National Rail lines).

Tenancy charges may vary. All Fees stated are exclusive of VAT. Preparation of Tenancy Agreement &/or Change of Occupancy: £200 (per tenant), deposit, check-in Fee £195 (optional). End of the tenancy agreement: Check out fee of £195 if the property has an inventory

7 Station Parade, Ealing Common, London, W5 3LD Tel: 020 8992 4242 enquiries@orchardsoflondon.com

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THE ORCHARDS OF LONDON DIFFERENCE

Prebend Gardens, Chiswick, W4

OIEO £2,000,000

Orchards of London are proud to present to the market this stunning five double bedroom semi-detached family home ideally located on a desirable tree-lined residential street situated close to the amenities of the ever popular Chiswick High Road. The property comprises a bright and airy entrance hall, stunning double reception with sash style box window and working fireplace, a stunning extended kitchen with spacious dining area, and a wonderful private garden.

Redcliffe Gardens, Chiswick, W4

£1,100 per week

A truly exceptional four bedroom riverside family home presented to the market in immaculate condition throughout ideally situated within this exclusive gated development, benefitting from direct river views and a porter. The property comprises a guest cloakroom, stunning reception room with Oak floors and marble gas fireplace, a large kitchen/diner with integrated appliances and a spacious separate dining room which leads out to a beautiful private lawned garden.

There is an excellent selection of independent shops and cafes in Grove Park nearby, as well as Chiswick Station. conducted on tenancy commencement. Renewal Fee of £195 which falls due after initial fixed term. Contract change £200. Rent advertised does not include any additional services such as council tax, water or utility charges unless stipulated otherwise.

www.orchardsoflondon.com Tel: 020 8995 9797 171 Chiswick High Road, Chiswick, London, W4 2DR

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New Home LUXURY Birch Grove Is situated in a distinctive prime location, on a quiet tree lined street in the highly sought after Creffield Road conservation area.

This traditional neighbourhood is highly regarded as a prime location within the borough of Ealing. Ealing Common is blessed with varied local amenities and transport links. Each new home is a short walk from Ealing Common and West Acton stations. In addition to this there is a great range of shops, cafĂŠs, bars and restaurants with the wide open spaces of Ealing Common nearby.

Offers in excess of ÂŁ2,000,000

All enquiries to 020 8992 4242 or enquiries@orchardsoflondon.com orchardsoflondon.com

Project co-ordinated by Finnegan Associates

ORCHARDS_MAY.indd 6

Orchards of London, as sole agents, are delighted to offer these two architect designed homes, finished to a truly exceptional standard, in the Creffied Road Conservation area, London Borough of Ealing

01/04/2014 09:41

ABSOLUTELY Property

Living the Dream � The most luxuriously appointed properties on the market.

Hammersmith Grove, W6

A

superb Villa style semi detached family house situated on the west side of Hammersmith Grove towards its southern end, with a 70’ west facing garden and off street parking for 2/3 cars. This elegant property is offered for sale in good order throughout. There are few properties of its size, style and elegance; an early viewing is advised. Hammersmith Grove is a tree lined residential street with the house situated towards its southern end on its western side. There are a variety of local shops and restaurants, with Hammersmith Broadway close by with its extensive retail, restaurant and transport facilities.

£4,650,000 Finlay Brewer, Brook Green � 020 7371 4171; finlaybrewer.co.uk

FREEHOLD

FREEHOLD

FREEHOLD

Castle Place, W4

Ravensbourne Road, TW1

Wellesley Avenue, W6

T

his stunning Victorian cottage is set on a quiet mews. The house has been refurbished to an immaculate standard throughout, with a double reception room with fireplace, large modern kitchen with breakfast bar, and decked south facing roof terrace.

A

four bedroom detached property in East Twickenham. The property provides lateral living space and presents the new owner the opportunity to take the property to the next level by extending to the side and rear, as well as creating a fifth bedroom (STPP).

A

picturesque Brackenbury cottage, interior designed to provide beautiful living space with wonderful light and character, leading onto a lush secluded garden. The kitchen is positioned at the front and overlooks the pretty front garden and apple tree.

£925,000

£1,550,000

£1,400,000

� 020 8993 6767; bushells.com

� 020 8940 6789; jackson-stops.co.uk

� 020 8811 2929; philipwooller.com

Bushells, Acton

Jackson Stops & Staff, Richmond

Philip Wooller

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ABSOLUTELY Property

Laubin Close, TW1

Thames Crescent, W4

A

n exceptional five bedroom family home set in a private gated development. The property boasts a Master bedroom with builtin cherry wood wardrobes and limestone en-suite bathroom, four double bedrooms and three family bathrooms. Fees apply.

A

charming six bedroom, architect designed property which boasts superb interior design. The property offers ample living and entertaining space including a roof terrace and beautiful landscaped garden with a summer house used as an office.

£1,731 Per Week

£2,000,000

� 0208 892 8921; fitz-gibbon.co.uk

� 020 8994 4111; faronsutaria.co.uk

Fitz-Gibbon, St Margarets

Faron Sutaria, Chiswick

Willow House, Eaton Park Road, KT11

T

his is a beautiful family home conveniently located on the exclusive Eaton Park Estate in Cobham, Surrey.

The impressive property is approached via electric gates and is set back from the road and offers close links to London and an excellent choice of private schools.

The accommodation is arranged over 3 floors and comprises of a spacious entrance hall, 3 main reception rooms, study with bespoke furniture, large elegant kitchen with steps down to the light and airy dining area with full height glazed windows and doors to the landscaped gardens. Additionally there is an elegant cloakroom, utility and large boot room leading through to the integral triple garage. The first floor offers a master bedroom suite with impressive ‘his & hers’ dressing rooms and bathrooms. Three further bedrooms, two of which are en suite and a family bathroom. The third floor has a large bedroom with en-suite shower room and a further bedroom/games/ media room. The landscaped gardens are south facing with a paved entertaining area with a range of mature shrubs and trees offering seclusion and privacy being on a corner plot.

£3,300,000

UK Sotheby’s International Realty, Cobham � 01932 860 537, sothebysrealty.co.uk

Spotlight on W4: Average asking price - £1,114,844Average asking rents - £2,279 pcm Average property value - £940,614

Data provided by

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C R O EG M IS I N G TE R SO N O O N W Visuals shown are computer generated images

AN EXCEPTIONAL NEW GATED DEVELOPMENT OF EIGHT ELEGANT TOWNHOUSES AND A STUNNING MAISONETTE SHOW HOUSE LAUNCHING EARLY SUMMER 2014 Tucked away just south of Chiswick High Road – the geographic and cultural spine of this upmarket region of west London – The Crescent, Chiswick W4 is an exclusive secure, gated enclave of eight spacious & elegant townhouses and a stunning maisonette.

Designed by Assael Architects, each home features secure allocated underground garages or parking.

CALL 020 8995 2345 for more information or to secure your appointment at the launch.

Each has been designed and built to uncompromising standards and each will provide an enchanting and secluded family home of class and distinction.

THECRESCENTCHISWICK.COM

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Absolutely DPS Apr2014_Kerr Westside Ad templates 28/03/2014 10:46 Page 1

75 Goldhawk Road, Shepherd's Bush, London W12 8EH

sales@kerrandco.com

www.kerrandco.com Askew Crescent, W12 £1,000,000 FH A highly desirable three bedroom house which has been subject to modernisation and extension by the current owners. The accommodation provides a spacious master bedroom with en suite shower room, two further double bedrooms, a family bathroom, a dual aspect reception room, a fabulous kitchen/dining room (with separate utility room) with concertina doors leading on to the rear garden. The property oozes charm and style and is located on this quiet residential street. The house benefits from a large useful storage cellar, excellent natural light and an overwhelming sense of style.

Hammersmith Grove, W6 £725,000 LH A beautifully presented two double bedroom, split level flat occupying the top two floors of this mid terraced Victorian building. The flat offers excellent natural light, well proportioned rooms and has a warm and enchanting feel. The accommodation provides two double bedrooms, family bathroom, reception room with semi open plan kitchen and a fantastic west facing roof terrace.

✆ 020 8743 1166 KERR & CO_APR.indd 2

28/03/2014 11:04

www.kerrandco.com Hadyn Park Road, W12 £1,459,950 FH This Victorian house provides excellent family accommodation over three floors having been sympathetically extended throughout. Accommodation provides a double reception room, a large kitchen dining room with French doors leading on to the rear garden, a master bedroom suite, four further double bedrooms, a family bathroom and a separate ground floor cloakroom. The house further benefits from a fantastic full width and depth cellar which has been fully tanked and offers amazing head height. The property is presented in excellent condition throughout and provides modern accommodation with period charm – one not to be missed.

Richford Street, W6 £1,400,000 FH A charming flat fronted Victorian terraced house offering flexible accommodation over three floors. The current owners have refurbished the house over recent years and there is further potential to increase the property to the rear subject to the granting of planning permission.

In brief the accommodation provides three double bedrooms, two bathrooms, utility room, dual aspect reception room, study, large kitchen/ dining room and a delightful mature rear garden.

✆ 020 8743 1166 KERR & CO_APR.indd 3

28/03/2014 11:04

S wor n &C o C H I S W I C K

194 Chiswick High RoadChiswickLondon W4 1PD

&

Sale, Letting, Survey Valuation of properties in Chiswick sales@swornandco.com 020 8995 3076

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Sutton Court, ÂŁ750 per week

A stunning four bedroom ground floor mansion block apartment with high ceilings throughout. The accommodation also comprises kitchen breakfast room, large living room with wood floors, luxury shower room and ensuite bathroom.

Recently refurbished to the highest standard, the apartment boasts new flooring, dĂŠcor, blinds and curtains. The property is available from 12th May unfurnished.

www.swornandco.com

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020 8749 7719

BROOK GREEN 138 SHEPHERDS BUSH ROAD W6 7PB ASKEW ROAD

LOCAL

113 ASKEW ROAD W12 9AS

.

INDEPENDENT

.

INVOLVED

CMYK

BIRCH GROVE W3 NEWLY BUILT 4 BEDROOM HOUSE  OPEN PLAN KITCHEN / LIVING / DINING SPACE  LUXURIOUS AND SPACIOUS ACCOMMODATION LARGE LANDSCAPED REAR GARDEN  HAND MADE SASH WINDOWS THROUGHOUT  ALARM, CCTV AND VIDEO ENTRY SYSTEM OFF STREET PARKING WITH ELECTRIC GATES  EPC RATING D 62

FREEHOLD GUIDE £1,999,950

www.finlaybrewer.co.uk

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020 7371 4171

BROOK GREEN 138 SHEPHERDS BUSH ROAD W6 7PB ASKEW ROAD

LOCAL

.

113 ASKEW ROAD W12 9AS

INDEPENDENT

.

INVOLVED CMYK

GODOLPHIN ROAD W12 STRIKING CONTEMPORARY HOME TWO FLOORS OF LIVING SPACE  4 BEDROOMS  3 BATHROOMS IMPRESSIVE WESTERLY FACING GARDEN  EPC RATING E 53

£1,000 PW / £4,333 PCM www.finlaybrewer.co.uk *Administration fee 150 inc VAT per person, other costs apply. For more information go to:www.finlaybrewer.co.uk/tenant-costs/ Finlay Brewer_MAY.indd 3

01/04/2014 12:04

Buy Sell Rent

It’s not just what we do It’s who we are

61, DALLING ROAD HAMMERSMITH LONDON, W6 OJD OFFICE@LONDON-ESTATES.NET WWW.LONDON-ESTATES.NET 020 8741 8485

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ABSOLUTELY Property

Property News BLADES COURT, LOWER MALL, W6

House Hunting Robert Barr

Sales Manager at Kerr & Co, Shepherds Bush � 020 8743 1166; kerrandco.com

Property I’d most like on my books and why?

Each and every property within a two mile radius of the office to satisfy the exceedingly strong demand. Joking aside, Paisley House in Brompton Kent, which is a quintessential and stunning Georgian house, tragically it will not be sold as it is the commanding officer’s house for RSME (Royal School of Military Engineering). I was fortunate enough to have lived there when growing up and have very fond memories of it.

The best place to invest?

Shepherds Bush - With the phenomenal and significant changes to the local landscape in terms of pure investment (the White City Opportunity Area as defined by the Mayor of London - Westfield expansion, redevelopment of BBC, Berkeley Homes, Shepherds Bush Market regeneration, plus many smaller schemes) the area is set for rapid and impressive growth. The area is a microcosm of Central London, meaning we have everything on our doorstep!

The most interesting property I have been involved in is...

Each and every property we sell is interesting in its own right. We will always look to maximise the potential of every property by looking for these unique characteristics, which can be historical, location, style or layout.

removed, fully sound insulated and the floor re-laid in order to pass part E of Building Regulations. Suffice to say, with my expertise it completed at the expense of a few extra grey hairs! These are the lengths we go to to make sure the sale proceeds to completion, not everyone would or could do the same.

The toughest sale and why?

A maisonette on Greenside Road which had been converted from a single house with planning permission but no building regulations. I had to liaise between seller and buyer and organise (using my builder) for the raised ground floor to be completely

Finest property showcase...

Blades Court, W6 is a charming and spacious, two double bedroom garden flat with commanding panoramic views over the Thames from Hammersmith Bridge to Chiswick, set within this private gated purpose built low rise block. £925,000 S.O.F

A fourth office in Shepherds Bush for Orchards of London � 020 8997 0076; orchardsoflonodon.com

O

rchards of London are excited to announce the opening of a fourth office in West London. Facebook and Twitter followers were given the opportunity to guess where the new office would be located using the Twitter hashtag, #NewOffice. The location of the fourth office has now been revealed and will be

in Shepherd’s Bush and will be opening later in the year.

Paul Connolly, Managing Director, says: “It is wonderful to see our company expanding and moving into other parts of West London. We were up against serious competitors for this site; we were overjoyed when the news came through that we had successfully obtained the location. Development has already started and we are keen to deliver the Orchards of London difference to Shepherd’s Bush and beyond.” if you are interested in joining the team, email recruitement@orchardsoflondon. com for more information on available positions. Follow the journey of the new office as we share the progress and development photographs of the new office on Twitter @OrchardsLondon and Facebook, www.facebook.com/ OrchardsofLondon.

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ABSOLUTELY Property FEATURED PROPERTY

5

MINUTES WITH...

Stephen Hardy

Sales Manager at Sworn & Co, Chiswick � 020 8995 3076; swornandco.com

Most satisfying transaction I’ve had...

Recently we sold a large detached home in Grove Park. It was extremely difficult for the owner to sell but we helped them for over 12 months and it fi nally completes in June.

Most interesting property I’ve been involved with…

Probably an old Boathouse hidden away in The Butts in Brentford dating back to the 18th century. In poor condition, it was lovingly restored to its former glory.

The property I’d most like on our books is…

The lovely three bedroom home I have just valued in the Glebe Estate. I won’t tell you the address just in case.

The Helix, Colston Road, SW14

A new addition to the Philip Wooller team

£1,175,000

Cathy Masser

T

ucked away within the much sought after Parkside area of East Sheen are two properties in the exclusive Helix. The entrance is through a light filled lobby, with floor to ceiling windows. Down the bespoke staircase is the vast open plan kitchen/ living area, with glass doors accessing a south facing courtyard garden.

Specification highlights include bespoke kitchens with polished granite work surfaces, stainless steel appliances, natural stone floors, and fully tiled bathrooms. The Helix also features a range of eco features, including air source heat pumps and a grey water collection system, resulting in considerably reduced running costs.

� 020 8876 4567; featherstoneleigh.co.uk

Most unusual interior…

The 70s was a great era but some of the wallpapers and bathrooms will never come back into fashion. We should have a truly special homage to the 70s coming on to the market soon.

I never thought I’d see...

Me running the London Marathon on April 13th.

Please, please help me support Leukaemia Care. http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/stevehardy

House Stylist & Photographer at Philip Wooller

� 020 8811 2929; philipwooller.com

W

e’ve had a very busy year so far here at Philip Wooller. We are glad to say, some of the long awaited stock is making an appearance, despite the bad weather!

We are delighted to announce a new addition to our team, Cathy Masser. Cathy is our in house stylist and photographer, who will make our clients properties stand out from the crowd with her clever eye for lifestyle shots.

Bective Leslie Marsh support West London Action for Children Brianna Joss & Tanya McFeely

Motivated Londoners Look To Escape the Big Smoke at Hamptons International’s Country Roadshow

Lettings & Sales Managers at Bective Leslie Marsh, Brook Green

� 020 8454 7237; hamptons.co.uk

L

atest figures from Hamptons International highlight that last year, 4 out of 10 Londoners moved out of the capital with nearly half taking up residence in the South East and South West. To respond to this increased motivation, Hamptons International hosted a successful ‘Country Roadshow’ event on Saturday across key London locations – Chiswick, Richmond, Battersea and Muswell Hill. The event provided those living in the Capital with a fi rst look at a selection of beautiful country homes available to buy and rent in prime areas of the countryside.

The hosting branches had property experts from various country and commuter belt

� 020 7603 5181; bective.co.uk

B

locations on hand offering a comprehensive view of chosen areas, as well as providing information on important influencing factors such as the top performing schools, commuter times and property values.

ective Leslie Marsh’s Brook Green office has always enjoyed sponsoring various local and charity events.

Th is May sees the return of the Neighbourhood Nosh and Postcards Anon to raise money for the worthwhile charity, West London Action for Children.

Neighbourhood Nosh is a progressive dinner party around Brook Green on May 7th where locals get to meet their neighbours whilst enjoying their starters, mains and dessert at different properties in the area. Postcards Anon, set for mid-May, will see the auction of anonymous postcard sized artwork. For more information contact Bective Leslie Marsh’s Brook Green office.

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BOUTIQUE LIVING IN THE HEART OF W6 ASHLAR COURT Ravenscourt Gardens, London, W6 0TU

2 Bedroom apartments from £750,000

• A collection of 2 & 3 bedroom luxury apartments • Beautiful Grade II listed building • Many original features being retained • Secure underground parking • Lovingly restored communal gardens • Excellent transport links

For more information

0844 644 1576 lindenhomes.co.uk/ashlarcourt

Prices and details correct at time of going to press.

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FSL2505 Featherstone Leigh CHISWICK ABSO DPS qxd:Layout 1 31/03/2014 11:07 Page 1

FSL2

featherstoneleigh.co.uk

Mayfield Avenue, Chiswick

£2,000,000 A well presented four bedroom, three bathroom, Victorian semi-detached house naturally arranged over three floors and situated on one of Chiswick’s premier roads. EPC = E.

t: 020 8994 6567

Whitehall Park Road, Chiswick

£1,200,000 This delightful, warm Edwardian family home, arranged over three floors, has four bedrooms, two bathrooms and larger than average paved garden. EPC = E.

t: 020 8994 6567

Chiswick

Fulham

Clapham

Richmond

Twickenham

Hammersmith

Chelsea

Putney

Kew

Teddington

West Kensington

Battersea

Barnes

Sheen

Kingston

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Elliott Road, Chiswick

£1,100,000 Located on one of Chiswick’s more desirable roads, this Victorian terrace house has two bedrooms, two bathrooms and a mature walled garden which faces west. EPC = E.

t: 020 8994 6567

Brent Road, Brentford

£850,000 Located in the heart of old Brentford, this three bedroom mews style townhouse has many features including high ceilings with exposed timber beams and two grand open fireplaces. EPC = D.

t: 020 8994 6567

It’s our area...

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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 Tel 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, LAMB COTTAGE, W4W4

£465,000 £1.600,000

LETTINGS SALES

*Master bedroom withwell ensuite bathroomtriple *Three furtherflat double *Family bathroom *Roof terrace *Generous lateralThree reception space with separate dining An amazingly light, presented aspect withbedrooms the added benefit of a balcony and private garden. bedrooms, luxury bathroom, area *Fitted kitchen *Utility *Cloak room and gas a stunning games room/ cinema / study downstairs goodand access to the garden A4/M4 for routes into centralIdeally 14' reception room, fullyroom integrated kitchen, fired central heating, share in the freehold,*Very balcony private with side access.

London out to the West. situatedand within close proximity of Chiswick Park tube station and the extensive shopping and restaurant facilities on Chiswick High Road.

LINDENCOTTAGE, GARDENS, W4 W4 LAMB W4 ALKERDEN GARDENS,

£330 PER WEEK £1.600,000 £1.250,000

newly decorated lower groundperiod floor house garden flat with private garden.

Large double bedroom withdouble wardrobes, reception room fitted with AAstunning, immaculately presented situated on this quietwest streetfacing moments from Chiswick High Road.

Full width reception room * Luxury wood floors,* bathroom with with shower over,shower fittedroom kitchen, The flat is* Family on one of Chiswick's best located 4roads, moments the* South shops, eat in kitchen Master bedroom en-suite * Twogarden. further bedrooms bathroom * Loft room/bedroom * South facing rooffrom terrace restaurants on located the High andshops, 5 minutes from Turnham* Close Greenproximity station. to The property is available early September, furnished. facing gardencafés * Ideally forRoad Chiswick bars and restaurants Turnham Green Station and the A4/M4 for routes in and out of London.

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SALES LETTINGS POINT WHARF LANE, TW8 GROVE PARK ROAD, W4

£350£650,000 PER WEEK

SALES

ABeautifully light and spacious two bedroom first floor purpose built flat withflat private garden ideally located closeriverside to numerous transport facilities. presented two double bedroom second floor in this highly sought after development.

Boasting a stunning open plan *21’4 x 15’3 Reception rooma*20’ x 12’1 room *Two bedrooms *Family bathroom garden *Long & share of thewith freehold kitchen reception room, river sideKitchen/Breakfast balcony and a master ensuite bedroom.

Large open *Private plan reception room,leasehold fully fitted kitchen granite work *Potential for wardrobes a loft extension to the necessary consents. parking space included. tops, fitted andsubject riverside views.

Underground

QUEEN ANNES GROVE, BARROWGATE ROAD, W4 W4

£430 PER WEEK £1,750,000

A large, light and beautifully presented double bedroom onlocated this highly in theroad heart of to Bedford Park, just minutes from An immaculately presented double fronted fivetwo bedroom period house flat ideally in thisdesirable prestigiousroad residential close all amenities.

Turnham Green underground Top floorfurther position ensures *Large beautiful viewshall from reception androom bedrooms. *Luxury master suite *Four furtherstation. bedrooms *Three bathrooms entrance *21’the Through reception *30’ Bespoke Holloways of Ludlow kitchen/breakfast room Cloakroom *Utility room/cellar *Private landscaped garden *Off street parking for two cars. Situated in this prestigious residential road offering close proximity to numerous transport routes and the extensive facilities along the High Street.

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ABSOLUTELY Property

Prime Purchase

Vendor Advice I’ve had a few valuations, but the prices vary significantly. How do I know which is the best to choose?

T

he decision to sell is possibly one of the most important financial decisions that one makes. When considering selling a property it is always important to obtain three or four opinions of market value from local estate agents and it is their duty to be honest in their appraisal and base their figures on evidence of recent sales of similar properties in the area, and often the ‘feel’ of a property based on years of experience.

Unfortunately, with the present shortage of properties for sale in Chiswick there is sometimes the temptation for agents to push prices high in order to try and get the instruction. The reality is that properties are worth what people will pay and ultimately the market will determine the price. In reality when making plans it is essential to have the correct figure and therefore important to speak to a trusted reputable estate agent who can demonstrate their credentials and expertise over many years, like John D Wood & Co, with over 80 years combined experience in the Chiswick area.

Derek Fletcher

Manager of John D Wood & Co., Chiswick 

020 3151 5772; johndwood.co.uk

A

marvellous opportunity to acquire this classic detached double fronted Edwardian residence featuring a glorious 110’ west-facing garden. Perfectly located in one of West Putney’s premier roads, a quiet tree lined avenue of predominantly impressive family houses is this lovingly maintained, six bedroom family home that was properly restored a few years ago.

Details

Larpent Avenue, SW15 £995,000 Freehold

Contact

Sinton Andrews 020 8566 1990

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Spring into action for a hassle-free summer move

GODALMING

Catteshall Lane GU7 1NP 3 & 4 bedroom homes from £485,000

• Part Exchange† your way to the perfect location for you and your family • A premier development of luxury homes, set among quiet tree lined avenues close to the banks of the River Wey

Marketing Suite and Show Home open daily 10am – 5pm

• Within walking distance of Godalming town centre • High specification throughout, including modern, fully integrated kitchens • Help to Buy* also available for a money saving move

QR scan me now

0844 488 1968

lindenhomes.co.uk/riverside

YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE OR OTHER DEBT SECURED ON IT. Credit is secured against your home. *Subject to

status, Help to Buy Terms & Conditions and available on selected properties in England only. Eligible applicants will be offered an equity loan up to a maximum of 20% of the purchase price (based on the open market value). Applicants are required to fund at least 80% of the purchase price by means of a conventional mortgage, savings/deposit where required. The equity loan is provided by the HCA and held as a second charge. This offer is not available in conjunction with any other promotion. Full details will be provided on request. †On selected homes only. Subject to status, terms and conditions apply. Not available in conjunction with any other offer. Price and details correct at time of going to press.

Photographs show typical Linden homes. This kitchen, bathroom and bedroom include upgrades from £1,000 to £10,000 depending on the size of property.

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Cobham, Surrey

A beautiful family home conveniently located on the exclusive Eaton Park Estate in Cobham.

Master bedroom with twin en-suites and dressing rooms • Five additional bedrooms (Three en-suite) • Bathroom • Study • Drawing room • Dining room • Family room Kitchen/breakfast room • Secluded southerly facing landscaped gardens • Triple garage Potential to extend above garage • Approximately 6,299 sq ft • Energy Rating: D

01932 798 104

nathaniel.bracegirdle@sothebysrealty.co.uk

Guide Price: £3,300,000

Over 700 Offices in 52 Countries SOTHEBYS_MAY.indd 2 Sothebys_Absolutely Richmond_May14 (1).indd 1

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Soth

Oxshott, Surrey

A beautiful and well laid out mansion situated on the sought after Crown Estate, Oxshott.

Six bedrooms • Five bathrooms • Kitchen/breakfast room • Double height Orangery Swimming pool • Lower ground floor games/media room • Landscaped grounds over 1.2 acres • Tennis court • Swimming pool • Putting and chipping green • Quadruple garage • Further potential to extend STPP • Energy Rating: C

01932 798 104

nathaniel.bracegirdle@sothebysrealty.co.uk

Guide Price: £6,750,000

Over 700 Offices in 52 Countries

13:44

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m

,

MARLBOROUGH CRESCENT, W4 A beautifully presented Grade II Listed semi detached family house convenient for Turnham Green (District Line) Underground station and Chiswick High Road. Approx. 3,360 sq ft.

6 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en suite), shower room, drawing room, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, conservatory, attic, roof terrace, rear garden.

Freehold Guide Price £3,850,000 SOLD

Ravensmede Way, W4

SOLD

Guide £350,000 The Avenue, W4

SOLD

Guide £1,295,000 Upham Park Road, W4

CHISWICK 020 3151 6225 chiswick@johndwood.co.uk

JDW_CHIS.indd 2

SOLD

Guide £499,950 Cedars Road, W4

Guide £550,000

johndwood.co.uk

01/04/2014 15:29

DUKES AVENUE, W4 A substantial and beautifully presented family house retaining much of its original character and many features. Approx. 4,482 sq ft.

6 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, shower room, 2 study/bedrooms, 2 reception rooms, dining room, wine room, gym, utility room, front drive with off-street parking, landscaped rear garden.

Freehold Guide Price £4,250,000 SOLD

Sutton Court Road, W4

SOLD

Guide £1,795,000 Chiswick Mall, W4

SOLD

Excess £2,000,000 Airedale Avenue, W4

CHISWICK 020 3151 6225 chiswick@johndwood.co.uk

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SOLD

Guide £1,850,000 Cranbrook Road, W4

Guide £1,090,000

johndwood.co.uk

01/04/2014 15:30

sinton.indd 1

26/03/2014 17:09

At the heart of Ealing’s property scene Ealing’s leading independent agent specialising in residential sales, lettings and property management.

8 Springbridge Road, Ealing Broadway, London, W5 2AA Sales: 020 8566 1990 | Lettings: 020 8579 9153

www.sintonhomes.com

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www.sintonhomes.com

RIGHT BY EALING COMMON SPRING HAZ SPRUNG, THE GRASS IZ RIZ £1,695,000 Freehold

ESTATE AGENTS & SURVEYORS

YOU MUST WANT TO SEE WHERE THIS ONE IZ !!

A wonderful family house on the edge of The Common tastefully restored and skilfully extended to provide a fantastic 5 bedroom family home with amazing living space and 110’ garden.

ST STEPHENS AREA COME HOME TO A REAL HOUSE

EALING BROADWAY FEEL INSPIRED

A classic detached double fronted Victorian residence offering 6 Bedrooms, 3 Bathroom, 4 Reception Rooms, ample parking and lovely 75’ west garden. Packed with original features

By visiting our stunning show house, one of just 5 amazing new town residences in the heart of Ealing. Over 2000 sq ft each with luxurious 4 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms and Spectacular 45’ Living area A- MAY – ZING!

£1,800,000 Freehold

From £1,325,000 Freehold

www.sintonhomes.com / 020 8566 1990 / 8 Springbridge Road, Ealing Broadway, London W5 2AA Sinton Andrews_APR.indd 2

31/03/2014 15:58

PUTNEY SW15 RISE GENTLEMEN PLEASE

Price Guide £4m Plus Freehold

A handsome detached double fronted Gentleman’s residence in a quiet, leafy and prestigious avenue close to Putney Common. Bags of space and character with fantastic potential to stamp your own idea’s. It offers Hall, Cloaks, 4 Fine Receps, Huge 28’ x 23’ Family Kitchen, Laundry Room, Cellar, Principal Bedroom Suite, 5 Further Double Bedrooms, 3 Further Bath/Shower Rooms, Private drive to DOUBLE GARAGE and Glorious 110’ West Facing Garden.

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Offices throughout London

Bollo Bridge Road, W3

£275,000 Leasehold

The brilliant one bedroom flat is in a secure private purpose built building with off street parking. The flat has a large reception room leading to a fully fitted kitchen, good sized double bedroom and family bathroom. This flat has been finished to a high standard with plenty of light and storage. Sunninghill Court is in a good location and close to Acton Town Tube with all the amenities of the High Street and Chiswick close by. EPC=E Acton Office 0208 993 6767 acton@bushells.com

Acton Lane, W3

£480,000 Leasehold

This stunning fully refurbished period maisonette offers two double bedrooms with lovely fireplaces, modern bathroom, separate stylish kitchen and dining and reception room leading onto a garden. Further benefits plenty of storage, its own front door and great features. Acton Lane is brilliantly located to Chiswick and Acton amenities with close walk to Acton Town Tube. EPC=E

Acton Office 0208 993 6767 acton@bushells.com

Acton  Balham  Bloomsbury  Battersea  Camden  Clapham  Dulwich  Fulham  Hammersmith  Islington  West Hampstead

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bushells.com

Raynham Road, W6

£1,650,000 Freehold

Beautiful three/four bedroom Victorian home in the heart of Brackenbury Village. Presented in fantastic condition; this charming family home is arranged over four floors set on this much-sought-after road. With three double bedrooms, a double reception room, as well as a large open plan kitchen/ dining/ family room; the accommodation is both generous and flexible. The property further benefits from a patio garden to the rear, and a private front garden. Freehold. EPC = D. Hammersmith Office 0208 563 0123 hammersmith@bushells.com PART OF THE EDMUND CUDE GROUP

Acton  Balham  Bloomsbury  Battersea  Camden  Clapham  Dulwich  Fulham  Hammersmith  Islington  West Hampstead

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Chesterton Humberts property experts

Grange Road Chiswick W4

ÂŁ2,950,000 freehold

A substantial & wide, 6 bedroom period family residence located in this quiet tree lined residential road. The house offers, spacious accommodation arranged over 3 floors plus basement, with many attractive original period features; a large front reception room opening onto a double length dining room, 2 bathrooms, fabulous integrated kitchen, downstairs cloakroom, charming west facing garden & large basement with wine cellar.

Chiswick

EPC rating E

020 8995 3443

sales.chiswick@chestertonhumberts.com

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Brackley Terrace Chiswick W4

ÂŁ2,250,000 freehold

A stunning 3 bedroom house finished to a high specification, comprising 3 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms & additional cloakroom. In addition there is driveway parking with CCTV & rear access. The ground floor provides a generous open plan Bulthaup kitchen/dining/reception room with Sunfold folding patio doors opening out onto the decked rear garden. On the lower ground floor there is a 2nd 34ft reception room, utility room & cloakroom Chiswick

EPC rating C

020 8995 3443

sales.chiswick@chestertonhumberts.com

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ABSOLUTELY Property

Safe As

Houses JAMES LESLIE

Branch Manager 020 8994 4111 faronsutaria.co.uk jleslie@faronsutaria.co.uk

ALDECK ROAD, W4

W ily house offering Close to the river a famion wit h garden. dat mo om acc flexible : £800,000 1994: £160,0002014

J

ames Leslie looks through 30 years of property details. He showcases the outstanding price increases since opening their office on Turnham Green Terrace in the 1980’s and highlights what a sound investment bricks and mortar can be.

C H ISW

Wit h glorioIC K C OM MON R a spacious us v iews over Chisw icOAD, W4 g round flo or 2 bed flatk Common, w it h gdn.

1994: £124 ,5002014 : £625,000

DEVONS HI RE ROAD

, W4 A wonderf ully brigh large West facing receptt house wit h ion rooms and landscaped garden.

1994: £165,0002014

: £900,000

UTH , Wth4e OAD SoO R D R tte w it h ce. e O n F OX bed mais terra

s3 of A spaciouto create a large ro potential ,000 014: £600 5,0002 11 £ : 4 9 19

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B Y LE T

Balfern Grove, W4

£358 pw Unfurnished

Frithville Gdns, W12

£300 pw Furnished

Charming two bedroom garden flat. Open plan reception / Kitchen, shower room, sunny South facing reception room.

EPC: D

A lovely first floor conversion in central location. Westerly facing reception, double bedroom, modern kitchen and bathroom.

EPC: C

Courtlands, TW10

The Windmill, W4

£323 pw Unfurnished

Two bedroom apartment with wooden floors, a newly fitted shower room, westerly facing reception room, large loft space, off st parking and lovely communal gardens. EPC: D

£419,950 Leasehold

Centrally located apartment, double bedroom with built in wardrobes, westerly facing reception room, bathroom, kitchen, allocated parking and a large roof terrace. EPC: D

www.gordonlindsayassociates.com 020 8400 2726 / email info@gordonlindsayassociates.com

or visit the “register” section of the website and submit your details and questions.

Gordon Lindsay Associates, 9 Turnham green terrace mews, Chiswick, London, W4 1QU GORDON LINDSAY_MAY.indd 2

01/04/2014 12:02

Goldhawk Road, W6

£440 per week To Let

Carelia Court, W4

£465 PW To Let

This first floor flat is forming part of the brand new built development consisting of 5 flats. Located moments from Stamford Brook tube, the property comprises of an open plan fully fitted kitchen, two double bedrooms and bathroom.

The property benefits from modern appliances, wooden floors and double glazing windows. Available immediately.

Unfurnished.

A stunning two double bedroom garden flat forming part of this new development and occupying a quiet corner location. 910 sq ft and with off street parking the interior designed property was the original and highly sought after show flat and benefits many upgrades. Two double bedrooms both with large built in wardrobes. Private patio area with private side entrance and direct access to parking.

Available beginning of May. Furnished. EPC=D

St Catherine’s Court £425

Goldhawk Road, W6

£425 PW To Let

This raised ground floor flat is forming part of the brand new built development consisting of 5 flats. The property comprises of an open plan fully fitted kitchen, double bedroom and bathroom. the property benefits from modern appliances, wooden floors and double glazing windows.

Available immediately. Unfurnished. EPC = E

£350 PW To Let

This raised ground floor flat is forming part of the brand new built development consisting of 5 flats. The property comprises of an open plan fully fitted kitchen, double bedroom and bathroom. the property benefits from modern appliances, wooden floors and double glazing windows.

Available immediately. Unfurnished.

Sales: 020 8995 1500 sales@andrewnunnassociates.co.uk | Lettings:w 020 8995 1600 lettings@andrewnunnassociates.co.uk Andrew Nunn_MARCH.indd 2

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Redcliffe Gardens, W4

£1650 per week

Montgomery Road, W4

£695 per week

A magnificent 3070sq ft family home situated within this exclusive and secure, gated development on the River Thames benefiting from an on-site porter offered in excellent condition and boasts high ceilings and oak flooring on the ground floor. French doors opening onto a rear riverside garden and views of the river. The property is available beginning of March and is offered unfurnished. EPC= D

This very bright and full of character house comprises of a double reception room with doors opening onto the South facing garden, fully fitted eat in kitchen, large master bedroom with built in wardrobes, second double bedroom and family bathroom. On the top floor is the large bedroom and shower room. The property is offered fully furnished and is available from mid April. EPC=D

Osier Mews, W4

Powell Place, W4 £550 per week

£595 per week

Beautifully presented, newly refurbished, professionally designed flat located in this sought after gated development with views of river Thames. The property is offered unfurnished and is available immediately. Council tax band G. EPC=C

Nicely presented flat in this newly built gated development located just off Devonshire Road and moments from Chiswick High Road. West facing garden. Property benefits from under-floor heating and an allocated parking space.

Available immediately. Unfurnished. Council tax band E. EPC=B

w w w. a n d r ew n u n n a s s o c i a t e s . c o . u k | 0 2 0 8 9 9 5 15 0 0 Andrew Nunn_MARCH.indd 3

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faronsutaria.co.uk

SALES & LETTINGS

EDITH ROAD, W14 A spacious 2 double bedroom garden flat located on the ever popular Edith Road. Offered in superb decorative condition, with a 121 year lease and a 700 sq/ft garden. Energy Rating: D. 2 bedrooms, bathroom, shower room, reception room, garden. £885,000 Leasehold 020 8936 3985 shepbush@faronsutaria.co.uk

STONOR ROAD, W14 A garden flat offered in immaculate decorative condition, benefiting from a private patio as well as a shared garden. Energy Rating: D. 1/2 bedrooms, bathroom, reception room, garden. £550,000 Share of Freehold 020 8936 3985 shepbush@faronsutaria.co.uk

SALES • LETTINGS • AUCTIONS • PROPERTY FINANCE • SURVEYS • CONVEYANCING

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faronsutaria.co.uk

SALES & LETTINGS

ST. STEPHENS AVENUE, W12 A terraced house in superb decorative condition, currently arranged as two separate maisonettes. Located on St. Stephens Avenue. Energy Rating: E. 5/6 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 reception rooms, kitchen/dining room, garden. £1,500,000 Freehold 020 8936 3985 shepbush@faronsutaria.co.uk

EDITH ROAD, W14 An immaculate and modern 2 double bedroom garden flat on Edith Road, West Kensington.

Energy Rating: D. 2 bedrooms, bathroom, shower room, reception room, garden. £800,000 Leasehold 020 8936 3985 shepbush@faronsutaria.co.uk

SALES • LETTINGS • AUCTIONS • PROPERTY FINANCE • SURVEYS • CONVEYANCING

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SALES & LETTINGS

THAMES CRESCENT, W4 A substantial, modern house is located in an exclusive Thames-side gated community, 0.9 miles from Chiswick rail station and 1 mile from the Chiswick High Road and Turnham Green Underground station. Energy rating: C. 6 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 3 reception rooms, balcony, patio, garden. £2,000,000 Freehold

HOLLAND GARDENS, KEW BRIDGE, TW8 An impressive split-level penthouse apartment located in an exclusive gated community near the river Thames, between the amenities of Chiswick, Brentford and Kew, close to Kew Bridge rail station. Energy Rating: E. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, reception room, roof terrace, private parking. £995,000 Leasehold 020 8994 4111 chiswick@faronsutaria.co.uk

RIVERS HOUSE, KEW BRIDGE, TW8 A 2nd floor apartment in an Art Deco style development located just 0.1 of a mile from Kew Bridge rail station and 0.7 of a mile from Gunnersbury Underground and rail station. Energy Rating: C. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, reception room, private parking. £500,000 Leasehold 020 8994 4111 chiswick@faronsutaria.co.uk

SALES • LETTINGS • AUCTIONS • PROPERTY FINANCE • SURVEYS • CONVEYANCING

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SALES & LETTINGS

en

THAMES CRESCENT, CHISWICK, W4 A substantial, modern house located in an exclusive Thames-side gated community, 0.9 of a mile from Chiswick rail station and 1 mile from the Chiswick High Road and Turnham Green Underground station. Energy Rating: C. 6 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 3 reception rooms, balcony, garden, private parking. £2,000,000 Freehold 020 8994 4111 chiswick@faronsutaria.co.uk

SALES • LETTINGS • AUCTIONS • PROPERTY FINANCE • SURVEYS • CONVEYANCING

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ABSOLUTELY Property FEATURED PROPERTY

Property Round up Property is not just what we do, it’s who we are

and enthusiastic team combine traditional experience with the very latest technology, going to extraordinary lengths to match your property to all possible prospective buyers. You can be confident that the London Estates team will work tirelessly to maximise all opportunities to sell your home for the best possible price.

� 020 8741 8485; london-estates.net

A

t London Estates, established in 1989, we have a tradition for providing sellers with a comprehensive and efficient service. Situated in the heart of Hammersmith, we pride ourselves on being able to offer the highest standard of service to sellers and buyers alike. We are an independent, family owned and run business with years of experience. We are proud members of the national approved letting scheme (NALS) and are regulated by the property ombudsman. Our knowledgeable

Space to grow in W12 this spring � the-bloom.co.uk

H

omebuyers can enjoy outdoor space from the comfort of their own home this spring following the recent launch of new apartments at the Hammersmith & Fulham development, The Bloom. Notting Hill London is providing 48 brand new private sale apartments.

The Crescent, W4 Price on Application

T

ucked away just south of Chiswick High Road – the geographic and cultural spine of this upmarket region of west London – The Crescent, Chiswick W4 is an exceptional gated enclave of eight 3 & 4 bedroom spacious and elegant townhouses and a stunning maisonette, designed by Assael Architects. Each residence has been designed to uncompromising standards.

There are underground garages, parking, and a sophisticated alarm system with automatic gate access to the development. The exquisite, contemporary four bedroom homes all have their own landscaped gardens and terraces, providing ample outside space for relaxation and entertaining.

� 020 8995 2345; thecrescentchiswick.com

Available as one, two or three beds, the new private sale apartments provide a great deal of outside space for residents – a rarity in new-build properties. Not only does every home have balcony space, selected apartments also overlook the five acre Wormholt Park.

The development includes underground parking spaces and cycle storage. Residents also benefit from a state-of-the-art health care centre on site, with up to twelve GP rooms, three dental surgeries, two chiropody suites, a day surgery, and a district nurse.

Prices at The Bloom start from £320,000 for a one-bedroom apartment.

Spring has sprung!

Simon Waller

Sales Manager at Winkworth, Shepherds Bush � 020 8735 3266; winkworth.co.uk

S

pring has sprung and the sun shines through my office windows, warming the very soul. Traditionally spring is the property season, with new instructions and would be buyers popping up like so many daffodils, but this year there will be no seasonal uplift. Doom and gloom is it then? Absolutely not, quite the reverse; the lack of seasonal uplift is simply an effect of there having been no noticeable seasonal down turn previously. And so demand continues to increase and values are very strong and those of us who have been singing from the gentrification song sheet for many years feel the smug glow of vindication. Buying or selling, Shepherds Bush is where the party’s at.

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LO N D O N W 1 2

Because it’s so close to Westfield – perfect for a quick shopping spree.

The Bloom is a development of new apartments in bustling Shepherd’s Bush with just three 1 bedroom Private Sale Apartments remaining.

Scan to register

To find out if an apartment at The Bloom is right for your life call 020 7603 1384 (Quote AB9) or visit the-bloom.co.uk

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TO LE T

B RACKENBURY ROAD W6 £ 510 PW / £ 2 210 PCM • • • • •

An outstanding Brackenbury garden flat 2 double bedrooms Bathroom and cloakroom Reception room with fireplace Refitted kitchen open plan

PHILLIP WOOLLER.indd 1

• • • • •

Wonderful conservatory / dining room Large and secluded paved west facing garden Own entrance and good storage Available mid May 2014 850 sq ft / 79 sq m approx. EPC – D

31/03/2014 11:51

FO R SALE

WELLESLE Y AVENUE W6 GUIDE PRICE £1, 4 0 0 , 0 0 0 FREEHOLD • • • • •

A stunning period cottage just east of Ravenscourt Park Within walking distance of numerous outstanding schools 3 bedrooms 2 bathrooms (1 en suite) Cloakroom and good storage

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• • • • •

Professionally designed hand built kitchen Light 33’ double reception room leading onto garden Generous secluded garden with sheltered sun deck Enviable open aspect at rear and pretty front garden 1286 sq ft / 119 sq m approx.

31/03/2014 11:51

ABSOLUTELY Property

Ask

the lettings Experts Our panel of professionals give you the edge in the property market

1. Best BTL investments?

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ell-presented flats and properties in modern condition throughout in central Richmond are some of the best buy to let investments.

Following the purchase of a buy to let property, it’s extremely important to research your agent thoroughly, and ensure you choose a proactive, ARLA licensed agent with excellent local knowledge, who advises you correctly about current market conditions. It’s a well-known fact that Richmond is an extremely buoyant market, so any property should rent quickly as long as it is marketed at the right price.

3. Why should I use a property management agent?

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4. Who is renting in the area?

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e are currently seeing a substantial stream of families moving from central London to Brook Green and Shepherds Bush, where they can enjoy more space without paying central London prices. The summer market saw a saturation of one-bedroom properties, which are now being snapped up by young professional couples.

While relocation agents are actively seeking twobedroom properties on behalf of companies based in the Hammersmith and surrounding west London area – many of these tenants are relocating from abroad.

roperty Management Services offer the landlord a hassle free means of earning from their property.

For landlords lacking free time, the management service offers them an opportunity to maximise their income, whilst minimising the work involved. The agency’s role is a broad one; we’ll begin by setting a rental rate, then marketing the flat. Once we’ve found a suitable applicant, we’ll reference them and screen their credit, rental and banking history in order to ascertain their ability to pay. We’ll draw up a legally binding contract that protects the landlord as much as is possible within the framework of the law and ask that both parties sign before proceeding.

Most importantly, we serve as the fi rst point of contact for the tenant, removing the landlord from any involvement.

Maintenance issues are addressed by the agent, using their advantageous network of fully qualified and insured tradesmen and suppliers to help reduce the costs of any repairs. We’ll also provide a monthly statement to the landlord, detailing their income and any related expenditure.

Finally we’ll assist as far as we’re able to do so with any legal disputes that may arise during the tenancy.

inlay Brewer has a respected and established reputation in Brook Green, Brackenbury Village and Askew Village, so are often the fi rst point of contact for applicants and relocation agents looking to rent in W14, W6, W12 and W3. The current market is competitive and landlords must ensure that their properties look their best. Bright kitchens, maximum possible storage and neutral fi nishes will attract the most viewings and early offers.

As viewings happen, listen and be receptive to feedback – for a good offer it may be worth painting over that much loved wallpaper!

2. Katie White

4. Graeme Young

� 020 8892 8921; fitzgibbon.co.uk

� 020 7605 7760; marshandparsons.co.uk

1. Becky Contractor

3. James Matthews

5. Emma Harvey

� 020 8940 2332; featherstoneleigh.co.uk

� 020 8747 8800; whitmanandco.com

� 020 7371 4171; finlaybrewer.com

2. Rental yield vs capital growth?

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ell, this really depends on what you are trying to achieve, short term or long term gain. Many of our investors look in our area as they are looking for long term investments and capital growth has historically been good and there is no reason why we should not continue to see growth in the area. However you do need to buy wisely and know the areas you are looking in, this is why we offer an acquisition service to help source the correct properties and will work on seeking a property that will offer rental yield or capital growth depending on the investors requirements.

Contact Associate Director, Featherstone Leigh

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Associate Director, Fitz-Gibbon, St Margarets

Partner, Whitman & Co

5. How to attract the best tenants?

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Associate Director and Lettings Manager, Marsh & Parsons, Brook Green

Head of Lettings, Finlay Brewer, Brook Green

01/04/2014 11:31

Douglas & Gordon Fully equipped for all your property needs

Find out more about our comprehensive range of services by contacting your local office. douglasandgordon.com

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31/03/2014 12:52 14:46 27/03/2014

Sales

ÂŁ2,500,000 Freehold Westcroft Square W6

Overlooking one of the few garden squares in Hammersmith is this grand Victorian family house.

It offers a wealth of period features and generous proportions throughout.

5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Reception room, Kitchen/dining room, Study room, Utility room, Cloakroom, Garden, EPC: C.

A four bedroom property located in the sought after area of Brackenbury Village. Recently decorated, with a neutral finish it gives buyers the potential to put their stamp on it.

4 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 reception rooms, Kitchen/dining room, Cellar, Patio, Garden, EPC: D.

Hammersmith & Shepherds Bush Sales 020 8563 7100 | hammsales@dng.co.uk

ÂŁ1,995,000 Freehold Brackenbury Gardens W6 Hammersmith & Shepherds Bush Sales 020 8563 7100 | hammsales@dng.co.uk

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Sales

douglasandgordon.com

ÂŁ1,400,000 Freehold Nasmyth Street W6

This wonderful four bedroom home in the heart of Brackenbury Village offers a spacious east-facing patio garden.

4 bedrooms, Bathroom, En-suite shower room, Reception room, Kitchen/dining room, Cloakroom, Garden, EPC: C.

Set in a lovely Victorian terrace in Brackenbury Village, this first floor flat offers bright and airy living space.

Double bedroom, Bathroom, Reception room, Kitchen, Storage, EPC: C.

Hammersmith & Shepherds Bush Sales 020 8563 7100 | hammsales@dng.co.uk

ÂŁ575,000 Share of Freehold Beauclerc Road W6 Hammersmith & Shepherds Bush Sales 020 8563 7100 | hammsales@dng.co.uk

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Lettings

ÂŁ1,075 per week Unfurnished Weltje Road W6

A stylish family home with great living space and character. Close to the river and Furnival Gardens this property is in a highly sought-after location.

4 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en-suite), 2 reception rooms, Kitchen/breakfast room, Cloakroom, Utility room, Garden, EPC: D.

This cottage benefits from a large open-plan kitchen/reception room which opens up onto a beautiful south-facing garden.

2 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en-suite), Open-plan kitchen/reception room, Patio, EPC: C.

Hammersmith & Shepherds Bush Lettings 020 8563 4422 | hammlets@dng.co.uk

ÂŁ790 per week Unfurnished Theresa Road W6 Hammersmith & Shepherds Bush Lettings 020 8563 4422 | hammlets@dng.co.uk

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Lettings

douglasandgordon.com

£525 per week Furnished Brackenbury Road W6

A well proportioned, light and airy split-level maisonette in the heart of Brackenbury Village.

2 double bedrooms, Bathroom, Large reception room, Eat-in kitchen, EPC: D.

A charming two bedroom garden flat that has recently been finished to a wonderful standard throughout.

2 double bedrooms, Bathroom, Reception room, Eat-in kitchen, EPC: D.

Hammersmith & Shepherds Bush Lettings 020 8563 4422 | hammlets@dng.co.uk

£385 per week Unfurnished Valetta Road W3 Hammersmith & Shepherds Bush Lettings 020 8563 4422 | hammlets@dng.co.uk

Douglas & Gordon will charge an initial one off tenancy agreement fee of £240 per tenancy and an individual tenant reference fee of £45 per tenant. For further details please go to www.dng.co.uk/fees

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The spoils of the hardy workplace warrior.

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OARE, ÂŁ2,750,000 FREEHOLDROAD, W6 ÂŁ1,100,000 SHARE OF FREEHOLD UPPERWILTSHIRE MAISONETTE, OVERSTONE

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An extraordinary individual modern country house in arranged a stunningover location.

Built in 1962 for the artist John Merton, Pound With House A delightful threeand bedroom, three bathroom maisonette three fl oorsoriginally and offered in immaculate condition throughout.

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is broadly Palladian in style and is a wide, storey building large windows lookingBush the gardens.

It was extended in 1978 to the incredibly popular Brackenbury Villagesingle and the environs of with Hammersmith and over Shepherds on your doorstep, this maisonette offers

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include garden room andina alarge studio complex including a workshop and dark room . The property currently has very high ceilings and spaciousa accommodation great location.

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brick parapets surrounding the roof which has good storage space.

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Four bedrooms | four bathrooms | garden room | hall | drawing room | studio complex | dining room | wine cellar | integrated garaging | small lake arboretum | Three Bedrooms | Reception Room | Kitchen | Bathroom | En suite Shower Room | Shower Room/Utility Room | EPC :C over six acres of land

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Scan this code to download the Winkworth iPhone app

winkworth.co.uk/hammersmith

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See things differently.

020 7371 4466 hammersmith@winkworth.co.uk

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01/04/2014 16:40

OARE, WILTSHIRE ÂŁ2,750,000 FREEHOLD MOUNT PARK CRESCENT, W5 ÂŁ2,595,000 Anrare extraordinary individual modern countrysix house in a stunning Built originally in 1962 forafter the artist John Merton, Pound This House A opportunityand to acquire a double-fronted bedroom detachedlocation. family home in this most sought and prestigious location. is broadlyenjoys Palladian in style is a wide, single storey building room with large over looking the gardens.

It was extended in 1978 property a wide and and impressive frontage with excellent sizes windows and a southerly rear aspect.

Also offering huge potential toto extend include a garden room large studio complex including a workshop and dark room . The property currently has very high ceilings and and re-confi gure to suit.and No achain. brick parapets surrounding the roof which has good storage space.

Four bedrooms | four bathrooms | garden room | hall | drawing room | studio complex | dining room | wine cellar | integrated garaging | small lake arboretum | Prestigious Location | Southerly Aspect | Scope for Improvement | No Onward Chain | EPC : E over six acres of land

Scan this code to download the Winkworth iPhone app

winkworth.co.uk/ealing

See things differently.

020 8896 0123 ealing@winkworth.co.uk

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01/04/2014 16:40

OARE, WILTSHIRE ÂŁ2,750,000 FREEHOLD THORPEBANK ROAD, W12 ÂŁ835,000 FREEHOLD

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Anwonderful extraordinary and individual modern country house in a stunning Built originally in 1962 for thecomprises artist Johnthree Merton, Pound House A example of one of these ever popular Edwardian homes.location.

Built circa 1908 the accommodation double bedrooms

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is broadly Palladianstudy/single in style andbedroom, is a wide, two single storey building with largeis windows looking thelight gardens.

It was extended in 1978 to plus an additional bathrooms (one of which en suite) over and a glorious drenched open plan kitchen/reception

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includeThe a garden room and a largeofstudio complex workshop roomembracing . The property has veryand hightraditional ceilings and room. house retains a wealth original periodincluding features abut is not a and slavedark to them as itcurrently does modernity

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brick parapets surrounding the roof which has good storage space. design.

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Four bedrooms | four bathrooms | garden room | hall | drawing room | studio complex | dining room | wine cellar | integrated garaging | small lake arboretum | Three Bedrooms | Open Plan Reception/Kitchen | Many Original Features | Study | Private Garden | EPC: D over six acres of land

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winkworth.co.uk/shepherds-bush

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See things differently.

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020 8735 3266 shepherdsbush@winkworth.co.uk

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OARE, WILTSHIRE ÂŁ2,750,000 FREEHOLD RUSTHALL AVENUE, CHISWICK W4 ÂŁ2,250,000 An extraordinary individual modern country house in afamily stunning location. in 1962 for refurbishment. the artist John Merton, This six bedroom,and semi-detached property is a wonderful home having Built beenoriginally the subject of a full It is veryPound well House is broadly Palladian style blend and is of a wide, single building withwith large windows looking gardens. extended 1978 to presented and has ainlovely modern andstorey original features, two sets of over bifold doors the opening ontoItawas raised deckinginarea include a garden room and large studio complex including a workshop andadark room . The property currently very recommended. high ceilings and overlooking the garden.

Theahouse also benefi ts from off-road parking and studio in the garden.

Early viewinghas highly brick parapets surrounding the roof which has good storage space.

Four bedrooms | four bathrooms | garden room | hall | drawing room | studio complex | dining room | wine cellar | integrated garaging | small lake arboretum | Six bedrooms | Refurbished throughout | Off-road parking | Garden studio | Original features | Edge of Bedford Park | EPC: D over six acres of land

Scan this code to download the Winkworth iPhone app

winkworth.co.uk/chiswick

See things differently.

020 8994 7096 chiswich@winkworth.co.uk

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01/04/2014 16:41

EGERTON GARDENS, W13 £876 PER WEEK

ANNABEL MEWS, W5 £715 PER WEEK

This refurbished property has been completed with great style and

Rare opportunity to rent a newly built property in a private cul-de-sac

imagination. Ideally located for shops and parks.

with off-street parking and ideally located for Pitshanger Lane.

Four bedrooms | Two bathrooms | Loft suite complete with wet room |Cloak

Four bedrooms | Two bathrooms | Separate cloakroom and shower room |

room | Utility room | Eat-in kitchen | Fees Apply : EPC: C

Large open plan kitchen/reception room | Fees Apply : EPC: B

For more information on this property call:

For more information on this property call:

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c o office | 020 8896 0123

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c o office | 020 8896 0123

GALLOWAY ROAD, W12 £575 PER WEEK

OAKLANDS GROVE, W12 £575 PER WEEK

An extremely well presented four bedroom, two bathroom Edwardian

A beautifully presented and utterly charming three bedroom, two

house. This charming house benefits from a recent refurbishment.

bathroom Edwardian house with modern décor.

Four Bedrooms | Two Receptions | Two Bathrooms | Period House | Patio

Three Bedrooms | Two Bathrooms | Garden | House | Fees Apply : EPC: E

Fees Apply : EPC: C

For more information on this property call: he her s

sh office | 020 8735 3255

For more information on this property call: he her s

sh office | 020 8735 3255

Scan this code to download the Winkworth iPhone app

winkworth.co.uk

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01/04/2014 16:42

Chiswick office | 020 8994 7096

STONOR ROAD, W14

Chiswick office | 020 8994 7096

£450 PER WEEK

Stunning two bedroom flat situated on a charming residential road,

RICHMOND WAY, W14 £300 PER WEEK Newly refurbished one bedroom first floor flat in convenient location.

providing easy access to tubes and buses.

2 Bedrooms | Reception Room | Kitchen | Bathroom | Ample storage |

1 Bedroom | Reception | Modern Kitchen | Modern Bathroom | Furnished | Fees

Furnished/Unfurnished | Fees apply | EPC: E

apply | EPC: C

For more information on this property call:

For more information on this property call:

Hammersmith | 0207096 7371 4466 Chiswick office |office 020 8994

Hammersmith | 0207096 7371 4466 Chiswick office |office 020 8994

Scan this code to download the Winkworth iPhone app

winkworth.co.uk

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HOLLAND GARDENS, TW8 £392 per week

SUTTON LANE NORTH, W4 £350 per week

Two bedroom, third floor apartment with river frontage, en-suite

One bedroom, third floor apartment in a prime central location

bathroom, underground parking and concierge.

within Chiswick. Fully refurbished to the highest of standards.

Two bedrooms | Open plan living | Two bathrooms (One en-suite) | Furnished |

Newly refurbished | One bedroom | Prime location | Unfurnished | Fees apply |

Fees apply | EPC: C

EPC: E

For more information on this property call: Chiswick office |office 020 8994 Hammersmith | 0207096 7371 4466

For more information on this property call: Chiswick office |office 020 8994 Hammersmith | 0207096 7371 4466

Scan this code to download the Winkworth iPhone app

winkworth.co.uk

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01/04/2014 16:42

The Negotiator Awards 2013 (for the 2nd year running!)

Sunday Times Estate Agency of the Year 2013 - Gold (for the 2nd year running!)

Community Champion of the Year

Best London Estate Agency

The Negotiator Awards 2013 - Silver

Sunday Times Estate Agency of the Year 2013 (Medium) - Gold (for the 4th year running!)

Sinclair Road W14 £1,650,000 Located within an attractive end-of-terrace Victorian conversion, this duplex apartment offers grand proportions throughout. Arranged over the top two floors, the accommodation includes a sumptuous reception room that leads directly out to a large south west facing roof terrace, a modern tted kitchen, a dining area, two bathrooms and four bedrooms. hare of reehold. EPC=D. Sole Agents.

BROOK GREEN: 020 7605 7760 sales.bkg@marshandparsons.co.uk

Valetta Road W3 £565,000 This superb rst floor period property has a private entrance and is located on a uiet residential street. The accommodation comprises an open plan kitchen/living area with steps out to a private garden, two double bedrooms and a third single bedroom, which can alternatively be used as a study. easehold. EPC=C. Sole Agents.

ASKEW ROAD: 020 8102 0123 sales.ask@marshandparsons.co.uk

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Follow us on Twitter: @marshandparsons

Join us on Facebook: facebook.com/marshandparsons

Visit our YouTube channel: youtube.com/user/marshandparsons

LETTINGS

See all of our properties online: marshandparsons.co.uk

Thames Crescent W4 £675 per week This fantastic two-bedroom property is located in a brilliant gated development on the riverside, comprising a large open plan kitchen/reception room with lovely tiled flooring throughout and a balcony offering incredible uninterrupted river views. The bedroom accommodation includes a spacious master suite, a second double bedroom and a bathroom. EPC=C ASKEW ROAD: 020 8102 0123 lets.ask@marshandparsons.co.uk

Aynhoe Road W6 £650 per week This stunning top floor, split-level apartment is located on a beautiful road, just off Brook Green. Presented in superb condition throughout, the property boasts a stunning open plan kitchen/reception area with wooden floors and plenty of natural light, two double bedrooms, a family bathroom and a beautiful master suite with bathroom and private roof terrace. EPC=D. BROOK GREEN: 020 7605 7760 lets.bkg@marshandparsons.co.uk

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Local know-how. Better results.

0 % Commission 100 % Local know-how And a commitment to getting you the best possible result …on the house! > Maximum exposure to the best buyers > London’s best negotiators* > Unequalled customer service* > Award-winning marketing > Over 150 years’ experience To celebrate the opening of our newest office at Askew Road, we are offering to sell your property for free! For full Terms and Conditions, call us or visit marshandparsons.co.uk/sell-your-home-for-free

Askew Road Office 120 Askew Road, London, W12 9BL

* Voted ‘Best Customer Service 2013’ by The Sunday Times and ‘Best UK Estate Agent 2013’ by The Negotiator

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