WIMBLEDON MARCH 2014 by ABSOLUTELY Magazines

ABSOLUTELY WIMBLEDON

FEBRUARY MARCH 20142014 £3.95 £3.95

SPRING TO MIND SEASONAL LOOKS FOR MOTHER’S DAY

Ben Elton

ON THE JOYS OF THE JUKEBOX MUSICAL

Lesley Joseph

TALKS SEXISM AND THE STAGE

Sue Lawley REDISCOVERS HONG KONG

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MARCH / 2014

CONTENTS 5 9

EDITOR’S LETTER ABSOLUTELY LOVES

Absolutely’s top picks this month

10 WHAT’S ON

Everything that’s happening in your area

Culture 15 BEN ELTON

Talks songwriting and Rod Stewart to Matt Wolf

19 FEELING FLUSHED

Lesley Joseph treads the boards in Wimbledon

Style 27 GYM CLASS HERO

Top picks for the sports luxe look

28 BABES IN THE WOOD Transitional springtime style

Health & Beauty 36 THE MIDAS TOUCH

EDITOR’S letter

other’s Day, International Women’s Day, World Book Day – this month we’re spoilt for choice as to what to celebrate, so celebration ended up turning into a bit of a theme this issue. For example, I spoke to Lesley Joseph, back on our screens as the infamous Dorien Green in Birds of a Feather and appearing in the New Wimbledon Theatre’s production of Hot Flush! Flying the flag for mature women, Lesley told me all about celebrating the passing of years in the new series of Birds and why there really is no age limit to Dorien’s sexuality. Meanwhile, Battersea-based food writer Rose Prince celebrates her children’s achievements in the form of The Pocket Bakery, her new book filled with recipes from the bakery her children set up and which now stocks the shelves of Fortnum and Mason’s. And finally, broadcaster Sue Lawley travels back to Hong Kong after 20 years away to celebrate its rebirth as a dynamic Chinese city – it sounds like quite the rediscovery. And if you are celebrating, don’t miss our guide to the best local café’s for mums, filled with loads of great ideas for taking dear old mater out for Mother’s Day. What can we say? We’re here to help... Enjoy the issue,

Arabella Preston on the universal flatterer: gold

Interiors 43 RENOVATION DIARIES Georgie Coleridge Cole shows off her stylish new interiors

49 CASE STUDY

How the Browns got their dream Wandsworth home

Food & Travel 57 PERK UP

Absolutely rounds up its top cafés for mums in southwest London

62 THE POCKET BAKERY

Rose Prince on how her home in Battersea turned into an award-winning bakery

70 BRAVE NEW WORLD

Sue Lawley travels back to Hong Kong after 20 years to fi nd a city changed

Property 94 IN THEIR OWN WORDS

Meet Caroline Basma, Lettings Manager at Kinleigh, Folkard & Hayward, Earlsfield

112 SPOTLIGHT ON...

The very best of Northcote Road

ON THE COVER

Georgie Lane-Godfrey

Editor FIND US ON FACEBOOK ‘ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES’ & TWITTER ‘ABSOLUTELY _ MAGS’

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ABSOLUTELY WIMBLEDON

DON’T TAKE YOUR CAT TO THE VET ...

EDITOR Georgie Lane-Godfrey EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Catherine Hales SUB-EDITOR Elli Richards CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Georgie Coleridge Cole, Charlie Gilkes, Robbie Honey

ADVERTISING MANAGER Luke Webb ACCOUNT MANAGER Debra Taylor GROUP PROPERTY DIRECTOR Alexandra Hunter SOUTH PROPERTY DIRECTOR Anna Hutton-Potts SOUTH PROPERTY EDITOR Lucie Pearce ART DIRECTOR Ray Searle SENIOR DESIGNER Phil Couzens PRODUCTION MANAGER Stewart Hyde MIDWEIGHT DESIGNER Gemma Isteed PRODUCTION DESIGNER Edward Taylor ARTWORKER Ekrem Yilmaz JUNIOR DESIGNER Rebecca Noonan

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Introducing THE CAT DOCTOR a mobile cat vet offering tailored, stress-free veterinary care to Wimbledon’s cats in the comfort of their own home.

PA TO THE MANAGING DIRECTOR Clarissa Forrest For editorial enquiries please email: editorial@zest-media.com For advertising enquiries please call 020 7704 0588 or email: advertising@zest-media.com

*Late evening & weekend appointments *Written health reports & recommendations *Relaxed, thorough consultations

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Published by ZEST MEDIA LONDON 213 WESTBOURNE STUDIOS ACKLAM ROAD W10 5JJ T: 020 7704 0588 F: 020 7900 3020 Zest Media London 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 London 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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Joules

The Cat Doctor

mu s t ha v e

▲ A hint of Art Deco in the home goes a long way and this lamp from Next makes an excellent angular accent for a living room or study. Coming in a fabulous olive green we’re desperate for one to 1920s-ify our desk. Bridge House, Unit 4, SW19, 0844 844 5854; next.co.uk

People Tree The SS14 collection from ethical fashion label People Tree is embracing the block colour trend, with several pieces featuring a patriotic red, white and blue theme. We say it's time to rule Britannia! peopletree.co.uk

Cath Kidston Jumper Cosy up in this teathemed jumper from purveyor of all things kitsch, Cath Kidston. We recommend teaming it with a pale pleated skirt and plimsolls for a laid back look. The only downside is people may keep asking you to put the kettle on. £65, 3 High Street, SW19, 020 8944 1001; cathkidston.co.uk

Coast Earrings othing helps the transition from day casual to nighttime chic like the addition of some serious bling. These earrings from Coast definitely fit the bill – we particularly love the bold jewel colours. £18, available from Elys, 16 St George’s Road, SW19, 020 8946 9191; elysonline.co.uk

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L O V E S

Next Lamp

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It will soon be time to stow away the chunky knits and wellies (or at least we hope so) for the spring and these colourful pieces from Joules are just the thing to add a touch of sunshine to your wardrobe. 32 High Street, SW19, 020 8947 0528; joules.com

It is seriously worrying when something goes wrong with any of our furry friends, which is why the Cat Doctor is ready to come to your door for whatever health problem your cat may have. Just give them a call and they’ll have your kitty purring in no time. 07961 154 886; thecatdoctor.co.uk

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don’t miss

WHAT’S on march

In the cinema

300 RISE OF AN EMPIRE

DIRECTED BY Noam Murro STARRING Sullivan Stapleton & Lena Headley

ans of the original 300 film, featuring the rippling biceps of Gerard Butler, will not be disappointed with Noam Murro’s follow up effort. After the crushing defeat of the Spartans at Thermopylae, the Persians led by Xerxes continue their attempt to capture Greece. Rise of An Empire chronicles the events of the Battle of Artemisium, which saw a confederacy of Greek city-states take on the Persian forces in an epic sea battle. Entering the fray are newcomers to the franchise, Eva Green and Sullivan Stapleton. Green plays Artemisia, a general in the Persian forces set on raining down death and destruction on the Greek forces. There to oppose her is Themistokles (Stapleton),

the man responsible for bringing Greece’s armies together. They are joined by 300 alumni Rodrigo Santoro and Lena Headley returning as Xerxes and Queen Gorgo of Sparta. Heartbroken over the defeat and death of her husband and Sparta’s king Gorgo is initially reluctant to offer Themistokles her support but gradually her desire for vengeance overcomes her grief causing her to join the final stand against the mortal-turnedgod Xerxes. Breathtaking battle scenes and dramatic confrontations all in the name of honour and survival, this gritty Greek epic looks set to satisfy the action cravings of any movie-goer. IN CINEMAS 7 MARCH

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ABSOLU TELY

ARTS & CULTURE

PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT

New Wimbledon Theatre 10 - 15 March Made famous by the film of the same name, this West End production of the outrageous and fabulous ‘Priscilla Queen of the Desert’ starring Aussie star Jason Donovan is coming to the New Wimbledon Theatre for one week only. The show, described in by the Daily Telegraph as ‘hugely entertaining’ and ‘insanely glitzy’, tells the story of three drag queens making the journey from Sydney through the Australian desert all the way to Alice Springs. A fun and fabulous night out. 93 The Broadway, SW19, 020 8545 7900; atgtickets.com

must see

JAWSPRING

EXHIBITION

The Village Hall Gallery 19 – 23 March Writers from the Wimbledon and Merton Poetry circle have given their poems to twenty-five different artists from around the world to be interpreted into a different medium. The result? An exhibition fusing poetry and art. With the private view will falling on World Poetry Day, one hundred spaces are available for anyone who can write a haiku, which will then be printed onto toy sushi and exhibited in the gallery. 26 Lingfield Road, Wimbledon, SW19; jawspring.blogspot.co.uk

DECORFEST

King’s College School 23 March For all those looking to add a certain something to their homes or gardens but are struggling for inspiration, decorfest is the perfect solution. The one day festival will bring together an impressive and diverse range of of talented designers, artists, home and garden experts, as well as boutique retailers ready to offer advice and to discuss your interior ideas. Complimentary workshops, demonstrations and retail therapy are also on offer for a complete day out. King’s College School, Wimbledon, SW19; thedecorcafe.com

Dogs Don’t Do Ballet

Polka Theatre 25 - 29 March Biff isn’t like other dogs; instead of occupying himself with the serious business of bones and chasing cats and chewing slippers, Biff thinks about moonlight, music and walking on his tiptoes. The reason being, you see, Biff doesn’t think he’s a dog, Biff thinks he’s a ballerina. Described by Time Out as ‘one children’s show where the adults are guaranteed to laugh as hard as the kids (and probably more)’, ‘Dog’s Don’t Do Ballet’ is definitely one to watch. 240 The Broadway, SW19, 020 8543 4888; polkatheatre.com

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FORTHCOMING EXHIBITIONS 2014

VARIATIONS ON A THEME Solo Exhibition by Vicky Oldfield

Beautiful and highly collectable hand-painted unique collagraphs 3035- Sunday 2nd March Wednesday 18th February

Southfields Gallery covers a huge variety of contemporary arts and media including painting, prints, photography, sculpture and ceramics.

PAINTINGS AND ETCHINGS Solo Exhibition by Jane Atkinson

Watercolours, oils and etchings by one of the Grandes Dames of British Art Wednesday 4th March – Sunday 16th March

WONDERFUL WANDSWORTH An exhibition dedicated to the joys of living and working in Wandsworth! Submissions invited from the borough’s artists

Our portfolio of Artists range from well established artists exhibiting nationally & alongside local artists.

See our website for further details Wednesday 19th March – Saturday 5th April

BY THE EDGE

Solo Exhibition by George Robertson

The English countryside in all its seasons - oil on canvas Wednesday 9th April – Sunday 20th April

OUR NEW ARTISTS

Original works by ten artists who have not previously exhibited at Oil&Water Thursday 24th April – Saturday 17th May

NEW WORKS

by Tessa Pearson and Irena Sibrijns

Unique, striking and sought after screen prints and ceramics Thursday 22nd May – Saturday 7th June

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ABSOLU TELY

books

ARTS & CULTURE

BURIAL RITES

THIS MONTH we’re talking about...

When Boris Met Gandy(s)

outhfield based purveyors of footwear, Gandys will spend Thursday 6 February celebrating the official launch of their new HQ and what better way to do that than with a special appearance from everyone’s favourite Mayor, Boris Johnson. Although Boris will only be staying for the morning, the event will run all day and promises to give those lucky enough to be invited a chance to view Gandys’ exclusive new collections (including collaborations with Liberty of London and BOY London) and meet the people behind the flip flops. The philanthropic company, which is attempting to build an orphanage by the 10th anniversary of the 2004 tsunami that robbed the two founders of their parents, has gathered great media attention and success. Boris himself will be trying his hand at designing a flip flop at the event and who knows? Perhaps the Mayor will discover a sartorial talent he never knew he had. Or perhaps it will all be more than he can sandal. (Sorry).

must see

TONIGHT’S THE NIGHT

17 - 22 March New Wimbledon Theatre Inspired by the music of Rod Stewart, this comedymusical chronicles the life of a shy, young man from the mean streets of Detroit who can’t get up the courage to confess his love to the girl of his dreams. Frustrated by his own inefficacy he strikes a deal with the devil, trading his soul for that of his idol Rod Stewart. But of course, there is only one Rod Stewart... 93 The Broadway, SW19, 020 8545 7900; atgtickets.com

by Hannah Kent his brilliant debut historical T thriller is based on a true crime in an isolated part of Iceland in 1828, which lead to the country’s last execution. A fire at an isolated farmhouse kills two people and leads to Agnes being charged with murder. Whilst the investigation and trial is taking place she is kept with District Officer Jónsson and his family in their home. It is this time Agnes spends with Jónsson as she awaits her verdict and execution that Kent focuses on, and the impact her stay has on the family and lives of everyone in the area. A book which oozes emotion, it’s sure to test your beliefs.

Pan Macmillan (Picador), £7.99

THIS BOY by Alan Johnson lan Johnson was Home A Secretary during the Labour government and while he does focus on that period of his life, it is his honesty and matter of fact approach that is refreshing. For an autobiography, this book is not just about the author, but also two amazing women – his mother and his sister who both had major influences on him. The story moves from post-war austerity in pre-gentrified Notting Hill, through the race riots to school on the King’s Road in the Swinging Sixties, and the rock ‘n’ roll years when he made a record in Denmark Street and became a husband and father whilst still in his teens. A great read not only because of Johnson’s engaging style but also for its portrayal of London.

Transworld, £7.99

SHOTGUN LOVESONGS by Nickolas Butler e fell in love with the title of this book, and fell even deeper in love with it from page one. It’s quiet, achingly sweet and melancholy, and it breaks your heart to finish it. It’s the story of four friends whose lives have taken them so far apart that their friendships, in many ways, no longer make sense, but are utterly essential to their sense of self and the family they choose. The farmer, the country music star, the financial whiz, the injured rodeo cowboy, the book is full of the creeping Wisconsin cold, and the bitterness and warmth of old friendships and old secrets.

Pan Macmillan, £12.99

All books available from Clapham Books, 120 Clapham High Street, SW4, 020 7627 2797; claphambooks.com

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R E S T A U R A N T

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ABSOLU TELY

ARTS & CULTURE

THE

music MAN

With a career spanning over 30 years, Ben Elton has written some of the West End’s best-loved musicals. Now, with the return of Tonight’s the Night to the stage, he talks to theatre critic Matt Wolf about songwriting, Rod Stewart, and why jukebox musicals deserve a bit more respect

MATT WOLF It’s been over a decade now since Tonight’s the Night played the West End. What’s your feeling about the show as you return to it in a fresh production this many years on? BEN ELTON I’ve always loved this show for the same reasons that I have always loved the theatre. With Tonight’s the Night in particular, we are sending the message that there’s nothing wrong with theatre being a fantastic night out that makes you feel happy – that’s what people are paying for and that’s what the theatre can do. MATT WOLF In fact, you were exposed to the theatre as a youngster before you were ever exposed to Rod Stewart. BEN ELTON Absolutely. I played the Artful Dodger [in Oliver!] twice as a kid and my first real musical theatre experience came when I was about 12 and I was taken as the guest of a schoolfriend to see Grease. I love musical theatre and always have done.

MATT WOLF What was the impetus behind a show that tethers an original story by you to the extant Rod Stewart songbook? BEN ELTON Well, let’s face it, there aren’t many people out there who can surpass what Rod has achieved. And what’s great is that when you listen to Rod’s music and then look at his life, he always seems so fabulously good-humoured as well, so I thought what would work might be a story that brought to the stage his grace and good humour and something of his devilish side, while also recognising the fact that he sings about heartache as well as anyone ever has.



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PHIL McINTYRE ENTERTAINMENTS, ARNOLD STIEFEL AND AMBASSADOR THEATRE GROUP PRESENT

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www.TonightsTheNightOnTour.co.uk 05/02/2014 16:10

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ARTS & CULTURE

BEN ELTON There are. And for my part at least, I’m just not that interested in writing the biography of someone set to their music. I was approached to do that as regards the genius of Tina Turner but what I prefer to do is write an original story embodying the spirit of the artist or the band.

To this day, I’m not sure Rod ever read the synopsis but...he came to our workshop and turned to me at the end and said, ‘Well, you’ve made me a legend, haven't you?’

MATT WOLF Your script for Tonight’s the Night involves Satan, a so-called ‘soul swap’ and a geeky young mechanic from Detroit who is none-too-accidentally called Stuart. How did the idea for the story come to you? BEN ELTON I spent a week listening to Rod’s music intensively, which of course was no hardship at all, and as I listened, I tried to identify the overriding spirit of the songs, which were all about love, good times and winning and losing girls – all the things that, quite frankly, make for good stories! So I sat down and tried to think of something that would do justice to Rod’s own gift for storytelling and came up with a story that reminds us of that thing we’ve always been told over and over again in drama – ‘to thine own self be true’. MATT WOLF How does a quote from Hamlet apply to Tonight’s the Night? BEN ELTON [Laughs] Our show is really about a shy kid called Stuart who wishes that he could be like Rod. The point is that you’ll do better in life if you try and build on your own strength and personality rather than being jealous and wishing you were somebody else – that’s to say, nobody but Rod can be Rod.

MATT WOLF Were you worried about what Rod would think? BEN ELTON: To this day, I’m not sure whether Rod ever read the synopsis or not but what happened was that he came to our workshop and turned to me at the end and said, ‘Well, you’ve made me a legend, haven’t you?’ – which was of course hilarious because he’s been a legend all along! MATT WOLF You’ve had success with the songbooks of Rod Stewart and, of course, Queen, with We Will Rock You which is into its second decade. Are there some popular singersongwriters whom you don’t think would lend themselves to this approach?

MATT WOLF Since Tonight’s the Night, jukebox musicals have continued to proliferate both sides of the Atlantic; a new one drawing on the songbook of Carole King and entitled Beautiful has just opened on Broadway. BEN ELTON I’m not surprised and I will argue to anyone who wants to listen that jukeboxes are not something to be ashamed

of! [Laughs] In my view, it’s a perfectly legitimate and honourable thing to seek to entertain the public with music that they love, and the fact that the music is old and the story is new strikes me as no more reprehensible than attaching new music to an old story, as with The Lion King and Billy Elliot. MATT WOLF One last question: was Tonight’s the Night always the obvious song title for your show as a whole? BEN ELTON No, and the jury’s still out as to whether this was the right one. Phil McIntyre, our producer, still thinks it should be called Hot Legs!

Tonight’s the Night is at the New Wimbledon Theatre from 17th-22nd March. For tickets, visit atgtickets.com.

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London Steiner School Educating and inspiring children aged 3-14 since 1983

OPEN DAY

Saturday 8 March 2014 1-5pm

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FEELING THE

f lush

Georgie Lane-Godfrey talks to Lesley Joseph about sexism, stage work and the shadow of Dorien Green

t would be very easy to say that Lesley Joseph has been typecast. Having recently reappeared on our screens as the notorious Dorien Green from Birds of a Feather, she’s now treading the boards in the New Wimbledon Theatre’s production of musical Hot Flush! as feisty menopausal barrister Myra. There seems to be an obvious similiarity between the two characters, yet when I draw a comparison she dismisses it instantly. ‘There’s none at all,’ she states with a stern certainty. ‘None whatsoever. I mean, Dorien is unique to herself: she’s vulnerable, she’s funny, she dresses to kill, she’s a life force. Myra is nothing like that. You can play Myra however you want but I don’t know any other part that I’ve played which is like Dorien, she’s in a league of her own.’

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ABSOLU TELY

ARTS & CULTURE

In fact, listening to Joseph talk about her most famous persona, you get the sense that she is fiercely protective over her, guarding her jealously like a best friend only she truly understands. When I ask if she thinks there is an age limit to Dorien’s sexuality she brushes off the suggestion: ‘No, not at all. There was a line in the stage show where Tracey said, ‘You’ll be still seducing men when you’re on your zimmer frame,’ to which she replied, ‘I hope so.’ But I think the thing about Dorien is, don’t take anything she says literally. I mean, I know her so well, and I think half the time that when she says she’s off

I think in television there’s always been a bias towards men somehow

with young men, she’s actually in a hotel, with her hands soaking in a bowl and cucumber on her eyes.’ Yet it’s not only Joseph who cares about Dorien; 8 million viewers tuned in to see the return of Birds to our television screens. It was a decision many people were apprehensive about, including the BBC, who only offered the programme a Christmas special. Instead it was ITV who took up the mantle, recognising the enduring chemistry between Quirke, Robson and Joseph. A drama set designer was brought in to avoid the pitfalls of an aesthetically dated sitcom and the writers set about updating the script, filling in the gaps as what has happened to the characters over the last 15 years. ‘We’ve kept it fresh by making sure that there are references to the age that they are now,’ explains Joseph. ‘There’s even a scene where Linda is just sat at the kitchen table plucking hairs out of her chin with a magnifying glass!’ Whilst Linda Robson does makes regular appearances on the small screen in Loose Women, Joseph admits that it’s still rare to find older women on television. ‘I think in television there’s always been a bias towards men somehow,’ she explains, ‘but I think people are very aware that there are a lot of older women out there who want to go to the theatre or watch television and who don’t particularly want to see

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21-year-olds all the time. I think Dorien’s revival is just part of that. But,’ she adds thoughtfully, ‘maybe I look at it through rosecoloured spectacles because I’ve been really lucky with Calendar Girls, with Birds, and with doing Hot Flush! again.’ Joseph is clipped and professional on the phone, enthusiastically discussing her career and abruptly dismissing any suggestions she doesn’t agree with. Her latest role as Myra in Hot Flush! is one she’s taken up twice before, but she ‘couldn’t resist’ doing again. ‘It’s one of the funniest things I’ve ever done, it's a bit like a funny postcard – naughty and very near the knuckle. Audiences love it; it’s the only show I’ve ever done where on the first night we overran by 15 minutes because there were so many laughs.’

I don’t know any other part that I’ve played which is like Dorien, she’s in a league of her own

Describing herself as ‘a pure theatre animal’, Joseph’s love of theatre is clear and she happily chatters about the joys of a live audience. ‘The thing about stage work which is so bizarre is that every audience picks up on something different, so every night you do a different performance depending on what they react to.’ She reveals that top of her bucket list would be to do a Chekov play at the National Theatre, but admits that might not be possible after Dorien. ‘I think when I did Calendar Girls people suddenly realised that I could do more than just a comic role, but I think people constantly have to be reminded of that.’ However, Joseph is philosophical about what her most successful role has cost her. ‘The thing is,’ she says slightly defensively, ‘I think most people would kill to have a role like Dorien in their life. Very few people in our business achieve success and with the advent of reality television it has just got tougher. But I know I’m very lucky and I think that while Dorien might have typecast me for television, she has also opened all the doors and they’ve never really closed again.’ Lesley Jospeh will be appearing in Hot Flush! at the New Wimbledon Theatre on 4th and 5th March. For tickets, visit atgtickets.com

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06/02/2014 11:52

ELYS_MARCH.indd 2

04/02/2014 16:45

ABSOLU TELY

DKNY SS14 Collection, Available from Matches Fashion, 34 High Street, Wimbledon Village, SW19, 020 8947 8707; matchesfashion.com

CATWALK & CLOSET

sports star

Pastel? Check. Sporty? Check. Sheer? Check again! DKNY’s SS14 collection ticks all of the trend boxes, so the race is on to get it first. On your marks… Temperley London, available from net-a-porter.com

Mar_B&C_Fashion_Opener.indd 23

06/02/2014 17:02

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CATWALK & CLOSET

FASHION NOTES In The

Pink

Pink refuses to leave the catwalks this season. We recommend embracing it whole heartedly with this bright and beautiful hot pink dress from Eileen Fisher. £230, 23a High Street Wimbledon, SW19, 020 8605 2690;

STEP UP ▲ Pack a punch – or should we

say a kick – with these vibrant heels from Office. Pair with an LBD and you’ve got the perfect way to transition your winter wardrobe to summer. On Top Yellow Stripe Heels, £65, Office, Southside Shopping Centre, SW18, 020 8874 0033; office.co.uk

uk.eileenfi sher.com

SHINE ON ▼ Forget diamonds being a girl’s best friend; these crystallised earrings from Wolf and Moon are spangly, dangly and a hundred times more fun (and therefore much more likely to get you hot-stepping on the dance floor). £40;

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Get

Shirty

Denim is back with a vengeance, so expect to see the more confident fashionistas working an all-over look this season. For the rest of us, there’s this lovely shirt from eco-label Beaumont Organic. £176; beaumontorganic.com

Welcome to the Jungle We adore these playfully exotic numbers from print designer extraordinaire Victoria Murdoch, the creative talent behind clothing brand Silken Favours. These hand-drawn illustrations adorn cute playsuits, shirts and quirky accessories. Roll on festival season.

silkenfavours.com

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05/02/2014 11:32

FR to PE w EE Abs OF C he lin o n en lu FE IA y o t te L u hro ly R or w re de , ad r y wo er ou rth s. rs £ of 89 a. ,

Shop for your sofa off the high street. Pay for British craftsmanship, not unnecessary overheads. Key in lock. Jacket on newel post. Feet out of shoes. Ah, yes…that familiar welcome home as you sink into your Sofas & Stuff sofa. It’s the shape you decided on from the dozens we offer. It’s stuffed anywhere from cloud soft to supportive. It’s covered in the fabric, colour, texture and fibre you found most sympathetic from our huge range of samples (Belgian linen and Harris tweed are becoming very popular). And, if you have exceptionally long legs, or wanted a sofa a bit higher in the back, say, you may have opted for a ‘made-to-measure’. By operating off the high street, at Sofas & Stuff we save you (and ourselves) stress and money. So you’re able to park near and for nothing. And we’re able to offer a lifetime guarantee on every frame and spring. Window-shop the range on our website. Or, for information and directions to your nearest Sofas & Stuff, let’s speak on 0207 078 8835.

sofasandstuff.com 7 PARSONS GREEN DEPOT, PARSONS GREEN LANE, LONDON SW6 4HH

SOFAS & STUFF.indd 2

07/01/2014 16:47

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CATWALK & CLOSET SISTER BY SIBLING SS14 COLLECTION

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Gym

Class

HEROES 6

The sports luxe trend is here to stay for SS14. Ready, steady, go forth & buy

1 Virgin Rose Bra, £38, and Briefs, £25; playfulpromises.com 2 Alexander Wang Hilary Slip-on Shoes, £568; matchesfashion.com 3 Balenciaga Multi-block Trainers, £345; matchesfashion.com 4 Marc by Marc Jacobs Leather Trimmed Canvas Backpack, £175; net-a-porter.com 5 JC de Castelbajac Canvas Clutch Bag, £592; jc-de-castelbajac.com 6 Jonathan Saunders Silk-twill Shorts, £395; net-a-porter.com 7 Carven Appliquéd Cotton-jersey Sweatshirt, £180; net-a-porter.com 8 Reed Krakoff Scuba-jersey Sweatshirt, £895; net-a-porter.com

Mar_B&C_Fashion_Prod.indd 27

06/02/2014 16:33

babes in the

WOOD COME OUT OF HIBERNATION WITH THIS SEASON’S PRETTIEST FLORAL FINDS

Photography Ian Harrison

Styling

Lynda Bell

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05/02/2014 11:47

RED TARTAN COTTON SKIRT, NEW LOOK FLORAL SILK PRINTED TOP, CLEMENTS RIBEIRO BEADED STRAPPY SANDALS, DUNE BLACK LEATHER GLOVES, ZARA ENAMEL AND GOLD PLATED DROP EARRINGS, CH CAROLINA HERRERA

Mar_B&C_Fash_Shoot.indd 29

05/02/2014 11:47

GOLD WOOL COAT WITH FAUX FUR COLLAR, PAUL SMITH BLACK VISCOSE CRYSTAL EMBELLISHED TOP, BA&SH RED AND BLUE SILK RUFFLE HEM SKIRT, PETER SOM @ AVENUE32.COM BLACK LEATHER BOOTS, CH CAROLINA HERRERA SILVER DOUBLE HOOP EARRINGS AND SILVER FEATHER THREAD BRACELET, BOTH BY CAROLINA BUCCI

Mar_B&C_Fash_Shoot.indd 30

06/02/2014 14:53

BLUE SILK PRINTED DRESS WITH VELVET RIBBON BELT, RED VALENTINO @ MYWARDROBE.COM GREY FUR SNOOD, AMANDA WAKELEY SILVER CRYSTAL CHAIN BRACELET AND DROP EARRINGS, BOTH CH CAROLINA HERRERA BLACK ZIP UP SHOE-BOOTS, DUNE

Mar_B&C_Fash_Shoot.indd 31

06/02/2014 14:53

CREAM SILK FLORAL PRINT DRESS, EMILIA WICKSTEAD @ MATCHES RED FOX FUR STOLE, AMANDA WAKELEY

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05/02/2014 11:47

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

SALON OF THE MONTH

HARI’s

ou know you’re on to a good thing when a brand can justify three salons within a two miles radius. Hari’s new Parsons Green branch is the latest to join the family and it’s got all the usual quirky charm you’d expect from the name, albeit on a smaller scale. What distinguishes this branch though is the sense of calm. Rather than the usual in/out blowdry dash, this is where you’d come for those longer treatments, for example the Aroma Hair Ritual – a collaboration between Aromatherapy Associates and Hari’s salons. Designed to soothe both the hair and the mind, the treatment involves painting aromatherapy oils onto the ends of your hair, before sealing in the oils with heat. Not only are these oils mood-lifting, but they are also super-hydrating, giving your hair megawatt gloss. Whilst these are penetrating the hair follicles, you’ll head downstairs to have your cares kneaded away during a blissful 20-minute back, neck and shoulder massage. Finally, after the oils have been rinsed out, it’s back upstairs to experience one of Hari’s covetable signature blowdries. It’s all very relaxing and in just two hours, my winterworn hair was bouncy, glossy and oh-so-soft. What a treat. By Georgie Lane-Godfrey.

The future’s bright… Orange satin lips dominated the runways this season. To work the look yourself, try NARS’s new Timanfaya Satin Lip Pencil, £17.50. Available from Space NK, 46 Northcote Road, SW4, 020 7228 7563; uk.spacenk.com

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BEAUTY Confidential

Rain, Rain, Come Our Way

Hari’s, 183 New Kings Road, SW6, 020 7731 6062; harissalon.com

▼ Celebrating all things great about our

wonderful British weather, London Rain is the new range of scents from Jo Malone. Capturing the different moods of an urban downpour, the four fragrances channel the progression from soft, refreshing showers to the romantic intensity of thunderous rain. A brilliantly original reflection of the capital. £82 for 100ml; jomalone.com

3 OF THE BEST

BATH OILS

Welcome home ▲ Curated by Leonora Bamford, founder of My Baba and mother of two, Radiance Cleanse’s New Mummy Box is filled with nurturing organic juices to help new mums get the energy boost they need. And with soft, manageable ingredients that avoid overly strong tastes, they’re great for keeping mums-to-be looking radiant too. £90; radiancecleanse.com

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1 Burt’s Bees Lemon & Vitamin E, £9.99; burtsbees.co.uk 2 Penhaligons Bluebell Bath Oil, £39; penhaligons.com 3 Chanel No. 5 Intense Bath Oil, £65; boots.com

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06/02/2014 14:50

ABSOLU TELY

HEALTH & BEAUTY DIOR SS14

JASON WU SS14

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MAKE UP INSIDER

Arabella Preston on the universal flatterer: gold

old is one of those shades which suits everyone, adding warmth and sparkle to all skin tones. A hint of molten gold swept over an eyelid or fingernail is the perfect nighttime accessory and, as it is best kept simple, easy to execute. The paler your skin, the paler you should keep your gold. This Aerin eyeliner in a soft gilt is startlingly effective dotted around the tear duct and swept under the lower waterline. It brightens and sparkles in the light and disguises redness and darkness brilliantly. For a slightly more dramatic look, try one of MAC’s limited edition pigments. They can be used loose and dry for a soft, blended look, or with a wet brush for a slick of intense colour. Restricted to your eyelids, they stay grown-up yet modern. It’s on the nails where golds and metallics really come into their own. Not only do they become miniature accessories in their own right, but metallic formulas tend to bind to the nail more than other colours, making them long-lasting and able to survive the ravages of day-to-day life. Nail-doyenne and Chanel ambassador Marian Newman advises: 'For a luxe look that transitions from day to night, start with a gorgeous shimmering shade, such as Chanel Alchimie, then cover with a quick slick of a gold glitter to transform your nails into ten little jewelled accessories.’

3 2

4 1 Aerin Lipstick in Sequin, £24; harrods.com 2 Estée Lauder Metallic Trio Eye Palette in Gilded, £27; esteelauder.co.uk 3 Melvita L’Or Bio Huile Lumière, £29; melvita.co.uk 4 Chanel Nail Polish in Alchimie, £18; harrods.com 5 Burberry Limited Edition Nail Polish in Light Gold, £15; uk.burberry.com 6 Aerin Cool Gel Eyeliner in Gilt, £24; harrods.com 7 MAC Nocturnals Mini Pigment set, £25.50; maccosmetics.co.uk

B&C_Mar_Make_Up_Insider.indd 36

05/02/2014 12:57

BEAUTIFUL WEIGHT LOSS It's always the right time to try something new. New to you, but where hundreds of people just like you have bravely gone before. They've lost weight, got properly fit and found a balance, a way of living, that will outlive a thousand fads. We are weight loss experts. We don't mess around. Our plans support you intelligently from start to finish and then we show you how to keep it - forever. For nearly twenty years we've changed the bodyshape, habits, mindset of exceptional people, just like you. It doesn't matter if you've failed before. What matters is that you're content with where you are. If not, set aside some time and just get the job done - once and for all. The Intensive Programme combines our simple eating method with world class personal training. We train you for optimal fat burn and metabolic uplift. In your own home - six hours a week. Our Dietitians coach you, monitor your body composition weekly and ensure you're highly motivated. Most women lose twenty pounds, men thirty. Such is life. Our Optimum Weight Loss Programme coaches you personally for 12-weeks, shedding body fat and taking you back to basics. No gimmicks. We simply teach you how to eat again. We cut through any lifestyle challenges and show you how to come out on top. We can support you from our Belgravia Clinic absolutely anywhere in the world. We obsess about your metabolism, so you don't have to. Simply hand yourself over and do exactly what we say. For six weeks, or twelve. We'll be honest about what you need. All we have is our health and our bodies – whatever your age or lifestyle, we will help you be the best you can be. Why settle for compromise? We don't.

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FULL PAGE.indd 2

23/09/2013 12:59

hudson construction ltd

hudson Construction Ltd 27 Angel Road | Thames Ditton, Surrey KT7 0AU 0208 224 5061 | www.hudsonconstruction.co.uk Company Reg: 7489468

HUDSON.indd 1

10/06/2013 15:44

ABSOLU TELY

HOUSE & GARDEN

wall FLOWERS Farrow & Ball’s new range of Jasmine wallpapers add a contemporary twist to a classic pattern from the brand’s archives

Farrow and Ball, 146 Northcote Road, SW11, 020 7228 6578; farrow-ball.com

Mar_B&C_Interior_Opener.indd 39

05/02/2014 12:42

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05/11/2013 09:43

Notes ABSOLU TELY

HOUSE & GARDEN

INTERIOR

notes

OF THE BEST

SCENTED CANDLES

SURFACE VIEW

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Wallpaper-lovers, there’s a new name in town: Surface View. The brand’s collections use imagery from the British Library, P&O Heritage, the Royal Opera House and Trunk Archive as well as work by up-and-coming designers. A world of amazing prints is waiting for you – let’s hope you’ve got the wall space. surfaceview.co.uk

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BED REST  Don’t miss the latest range of gorgeous linens from Next Home this month. Flying the flag for calming neutrals, we’re lining up for the classically classy Damask Print. There’s even matching curtains, too. Wimbledon Bridge House, Hartfield Road, SW19; next.co.uk

5 1 Jo Malone Incense & Embers Candle, £39; jomalone.co.uk 2 Feu de Beaumont

golden goblet, £189; feudebeaumont.com

3 Diptyque Limited Edition Valentine’s

Rosa Mundi, £42; diptyqueparis.co.uk

4 Crabtree & Evelyn Rosewater Poured

Candle, £22; crabtree-evelyn.co.uk

5 Clinique Aromatics Elixir Candle,

£35; clinique.co.uk

Pillow TALK ▲ With their pretty floral patterns and bang-on-trend bugs, we love these insectile interiors by Ashley Thomas. £28, available from Debenhams, Lavender Hill, SW11, 0844 561 6161; debenhams.com

Como Chameleon  Make the place you park yourself this spring bright and cheery with the Como Sofa from Aflair – a true statement piece if ever we saw one. From £1,419, Aflair, The Exchange, Putney High Street, SW15, 020 8789 7377; aflair.co.uk

Mar_B&C_Interior_Notes.indd 41

05/02/2014 12:41

A. HANNA & SONS PIANOS Est. 1960

Hand Crafted Perfection…

A Hanna & Sons are proud to supply Cavendish pianos. Enjoy music the traditional way with a hand crafted British piano… It’s the sound every generation should have the opportunity to hear and experience. Call 020 8540 5541 or visit our showroom: 92 Kingston Road, Wimbledon, London, SW19 1LA. www.hanna-pianos.co.uk

Chill out...

HANNAH PIANO.indd 1

06/02/2014 12:34

keep winter at bay with beautiful new timber windows

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM AT 406 Merton Road, London SW18 5AD or call us on 020 8877 8920

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CALL FOR A COPY OF OUR NEW BROCHURE www.sacw.co.uk OPEN 7 DAYS

15/10/2012 10:42 06/02/2014 17:15

ABSOLU TELY

HOUSE & GARDEN

RENOVATION diaries

Georgie Coleridge Cole takes Absolutely on her decorative journey as she refurbishes her Wandsworth home before THE MASTER

after THE MASTER

after after THE CHILDREN’S BEDROOMS THE CHILDREN’S BEDROOMS

The Master e got this house because no one else wanted a hideous mezzanine bathroom that overlooked the master bedroom. We solved this by ripping out the bathroom, carpeting, refurbishing all the built-in cupboards and drawers and repainting. One day we might take out the staircase, put the ceiling back in and fully convert the mezzanine into two children’s sized bedrooms, but for now TA has a great study and dressing room filled with a large desk, wardrobes and all his clutter.

WALLS Library Slate IV by Paint & Paper CARPET Lano Satine from Carpet Base SHUTTERS Capella Shutters CURTAINS Mulberry Oatmeal Dapple Velvet from Fabrics & Papers HEADBOARD Robert Langford CHAIR Eichholtz CHEST OF DRAWERS Anne May MIRROR/BEDSIDE TABLES/ LIGHTS The White Company

before THE CHILDREN’S BEDROOMS

The Children’s Bedrooms

he existing cupboards in both

bedrooms were horrible but nice and big, so instead of building from scratch we refurbed them: sanded, painted, new lights, handles and now they look great. Otto has cloud wall stickers and the Nursery Window Yellow Bunny

curtains from our previous house. When he is bigger the stickers will peel off and I can replace the bunnies with planes! Meanwhile Coco has Ferme Living star wall stickers and Capella Shutters because her bedroom might one day become a bathroom. Both have wonderful Pilepoil rugs that come in great colours and shapes from Smallable, an online children’s boutique that has a wonderful decoration and furniture department. WALLS, CARPET & SHUTTERS As before WALL STICKERS Ferme Living CURTAINS Nursery Window RUGS Pilepoil from Smallable.com

Mar_GCC_Diary.indd 43

06/02/2014 13:45

ABSOLU TELY

HOUSE & GARDEN

after THE SPARE ROOM

GEORGIE COLERIDGE COLE after

The Spare Room

THE STUDY

or the headboards and cushions in this room, I used Korla fabrics. They produce some of the most stunning modern print fabrics around and, if I had discovered them earlier in the process, I definitely would have used more of them!

PAINT & CARPET As before CURTAINS Romo Linara Blossom from Fabrics & Papers HEADBOARD AND CUSHIONS Korla Alhambra Stars Reverse Mushroom

after THE BATHROOM

before THE BATHROOM

The Bathroom he bathroom was tiny and had the hot water tank taking up a huge amount of space. We replaced it with a mega flow which went in the utility room and reclaimed the space. After much deliberation, we went for a shower-in-bath instead of a separate shower to keep as much space as possible. I love fun wallpaper and have longed for Cole & Son’s Pink Flamingos for as long as I can remember – a bit risky in a bathroom, but it was well sealed.

BATHROOM Bathroom Discount Centre, WALLPAPER Pink Flamingos by Cole & Son at Fabrics & Papers

ditor & Founder of SheerLuxe.com, Georgie Coleridge Cole has lived in Wandsworth pretty much all her life. Four years ago she and her husband (aka ‘TA’ - The Accountant) bought a three bedroom house in the popular Tonsleys adjacent to Wandsworth Town. Now a mother of two, she’s moving to the other side of East Hill and taking on a project to create their forever home. This is the diary of her journey…

Stockists

 Anne May on Wandsworth Bridge Road, SW6  Bathdisc.co.uk  Capellashutters.com  Carpet Base on Cavendish Road, SW12  Eichholtz.com  Fabricsandpapers.com  Fermeliving.com  Korlahome.com  NurseryWindow.co.uk  RobertLangford.co.uk  Smallable.com  TheWhiteCompany.com

Mar_GCC_Diary.indd 44

06/02/2014 11:42

This is not a TV. This is a new era. mirror screen Your home, Your Style

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29/10/2013 09:30

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HOUSE & GARDEN

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HE TT PU TTLE KE ON

8 of the

best

TEAPO TS

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6 7

1 OKA Kraak Teapot, £59; okadirect.com 2 Wedgewood Cuckoo Teapot, £70; johnlewis.com 3 Joanna Wood King’s Road Teapot, £34; joannawood.co.uk 4 Habitat Lapsang Glass Teapot, £18; habitat.co.uk 5 Alex Clark Rooster Teapot, £25; johnlewis.com 6 Emma Bridgewater Egg and Feather Four-Cup Teapot, £54:95; emmabridgewater.co.uk 7 Oigen Pink Zundo Teapot, £160; harrods.com 8 Royal Collection Trust Great Exhibition Teapot, £75; harrods.com

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LONDON’S MOST CONSIDERATE, CAREFUL & CHARMING CONTRACTORS We undertake a wide range of general building services, property maintenance, residential, commercial, consultancy and insurance work. Refurbishments including Kitchens & Bathrooms Plumbing, Electrics, Tiling, Carpentry & Plastering Decorating - Interiors / Exteriors Free estimates Established for over 20 years New service - discounted fabrics and soft furnishings

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POE PROJECTS_JAN.indd 1

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BEAUTIFUL AND INSPIRATIONAL BATHROOMS BY GLASSTRENDS

We are a local established company offering traditional service and values along side high quality and competitively priced brands. Please feel free to call in for a chat about your bathroom requirements where one of our experienced advisors will be happy to guide and advise you through your bathroom design. Visit our showroom at 163a St John’s Hill, London SW11 1TQ or CALL 020 7223 4017 to receive our brochure. Alternatively visit www.glasstrends.co.uk

ASK ABOUT OUR PRICE MATCH GUARANTEE ON BESPOKE SHOWERS GLASSTRENDS_FEB.indd 1

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08/01/2014 14:37

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case

study

Wandsworth-based family the Browns improved rather than moved in order to get the house of their dreams PHOTOGRAPHY BY LILLIAN SPIBEY

t’s a dilemma that more and more Londoners are now facing: move or improve? With property prices soaring, especially throughout southwest London, and the cost of moving house a considerable expense particularly when you factor in stamp duty – the Clash’s lyrics ‘Should I stay or should I go?’ have never rung truer. Finding themselves in this exact predicament, the Brown family of Wandsworth decided to stay put and improve their four storey Victorian terrace. Having already extended upwards, downwards and outwards, the Browns now wanted to extend out sideways in order to transform the entire ground floor into a practical family friendly space that would truly stand the test of time. However, the prospect of yet another long building project was a daunting one as the family now had three young boys under seven to consider. Help was most definitely needed, so the Browns decided to commission the services of Interior Elegance London, a local specialist interior and spatial design consultancy, to help them realise the full potential of their existing home. The Browns recall: ‘In April 2013, we called Wendy and Lucy of Interior

‘A number of bespoke items had been designed from scratch’ Elegance London to create a structured 12-week design process. Having listened to our requirements, they assembled a clear and concise working brief, which once approved was rigorously stuck to.’ Yet it wasn’t just the organisation which was taken care off, Wendy and Lucy also provided their own ideas on how to optimise the space. ‘They came up with

a number of bespoke items that had been designed from scratch in order to take full advantage of every bit of available space,’ explain the couple, ‘such as our hand built kitchen.’ ‘To fully deliver the spatial aspects of the Browns brief, we increased the footprint of the old kitchen by extending out into the side return, providing a well proportioned dining space,’ explains Lucy, interior architect at Interior Elegance London. ‘Removing the chimneybreast to the old kitchen and back living room gave us the depth to design a number of bespoke storage solutions, giving our client the practical, functional yet characterful layout they asked for.’ With three young children at home, the project was a logistical challenge. Deciding to begin the building phase at the start of the new school term, the Browns were

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thrilled when, by June 2013, the final interior and spatial designs had been completed. With the plans signed off before the long school summer holidays began, the couple had time to prepare for the work to commence, whilst Wendy and Lucy project managed the procurement of all of the furniture, fittings and equipment needed on their behalf. ‘To balance the dominant 4:1 male influence within the family aesthetically, we subtly injected dashes of soft femininity, connecting the four distinct family zones effortlessly with a timeless colour palette,’ recalls Wendy, interior designer at Interior Elegance London. ‘Our objective was not to create a show home, but to blend the Browns new and bespoke furniture with their

treasured heirlooms, creating a calm, inviting open-plan space that meets their everyday needs. As with any of our projects, our goal was ultimately to create an ageless, tailor-made family home that the Browns could grow with and cherish.’ ‘The builders started midSeptember, with a scary completion date of the 16th December – yes, one week before Christmas! The deadline included the installation and dressing of the entire ground floor. It was at this point we realised the full value of having Interior Elegance London on board, because not only was the build process smooth but we were left with a completely finished home that was right on brief and delivered on time,’ explain the couple. ‘We even had time to dress our new living room with a glorious Christmas tree.’ Obviously delighted with the end result, the Browns can finally relax in the house of their dreams: ‘After six long months of designing, building and a house full of builders, tradesmen, suppliers and two designers, we now have the family home that we always wanted and our boys love it. They now have a proper space to play, entertain and chill out…and so do the adults!’

‘The builders started midSeptember, with a scary completion date of...one week before Christmas!’

To contact Interior Elegance London, call 07711 408 111/07711 408 117 or visit www.interiorelegancelondon.com

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06/02/2014 08:33

The London Alcove Company

0800 389 5724 ď ź www.londonalcove.com

LONDON THE LONDON ALCOVE.indd ALCOVE.indd 2 2

07/02/2014 15:23 15:44 08/01/2014 18/10/2012 13:30

Stylish Custom made furniture Better By Design

Please call or email for a free quotation

• Alcove Units, Bookcases, Wardrobes, Radiator Cabinets • All Furniture hand made in our Wimbledon Workshop • Family run Business based in Wimbledon for 25 Years.

info@thebookcaseco.co.uk | www.thebookcaseco.co.uk | 0208 870 7707

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Lovely JUGGLY These rustic French-style jugs, pots and planters from Retreat Home are a great way to display the fruits of your horticultural labour. We especially love the blackboard pail – perfect for leaving a little note of appreciation for Mum. £13.99; retreat-home.com

THE INSIDER Robbie Honey gives his top tip for the month

GARDENING Yellow FEVER

Notes

Bring a ray of springtime sunshine to your coffee table with Noel Kingsbury’s new book 'Daffodil'. Charting the flower’s historical and cultural rise, Kingsbury explores the wide range of daffodil heritage varieties and its ongoing significance, visiting people and places connected to the bloom. £17.99 (Timber Press)

In Bloom s there any flower more exotic, intoxicating or elegant than the orchid (despite the origins of its name – Google it). Kew Gardens has one of the oldest collections of living tropical orchids, which incredibly dates back to 1770. See it for yourself at the annual Orchid Festival, when these bright and colourful flowers will be in full bloom. Ends 9th March; kew.org

TRANQUILLITY ecently I was styling the flowers for a cosmetics campaign and had the pleasure of working with hundreds of David Austin roses (davidaustinroses. com). Once again, I was struck by their loveliness – old-fashioned fragrant English roses are exquisite and the David Austin varieties have to be the finest. 'Tranquillity’ is the latest rose from the breeder. With its rich creamy colour and beautiful scent, it would make a wonderful Mother’s Day gift. However, if your mother doesn’t have a garden in which to plant a rose, a bouquet of Keira makes a perfect gift for Mother’s Day. This delicate white rose is blushed through with a soft pink, and boasts a wonderful fragrance and a long vase life.

Read

THE SIGNS ▲ Keep your garden organised with a sweet stake from Gisela Graham. £2.25

each; tch.net

Robbie holds pop up floristry classes in Battersea; robbiehoney.com

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05/02/2014 12:33

BATTERSEA’S HIDDEN RIVERSIDE TREASURE

OPENING HOURS MONDAY-SATURDAY : 8AM-11PM SUNDAY : 8AM-6PM

Reservation - 020 7978 5055 Quote ‘Absolutely Quarter’ to receive a special treat upon arrival

www.riverquarterkitchen.com | info@riverquarterkitchen.com UNIT C MOLASSES HOUSE , PLANTATION WHARF, BATTERSEA SW11 3TN RIVER QUARTER KITCHEN_MARCH.indd 2

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That’s how we roll What is it about Scotch eggs? It seems that these days every restaurant worth its salt has a posh variation of the pork snack on its menus. Now it’s the turn of The Ginger Pig, who are launching a limited edition Scotch Egg (free range, of course) that comes wrapped in sausage meat and smoked bacon, coated in breadcrumbs and deep fried – not for dieters then. £4 each, 55 Abbeville Road, SW4, 020 8673 2251; gingerpig.co.uk

food notes CURRY FAVOUR ▲ Indian lovers take note: Southfields favourite Namada now has renowned chefs Bammu Pondefrom and the Michelin-starred Trisha on their team, creating a menu to tickle even the most particular of tastebuds. Take it from us, it’s well worth a try… Namada, 197-199 Replingham Road, SW18, 020 8870 5538; namada.co.uk

’s to r e d i ic k p

CHARLIE GILKES

Cocktail One pot MEAL ▲ Forget boring bowls of cardboard cereal. Cuckoo’s new Bircher-style muesli pots come in five adventurous flavours and are less than 300 calories a pot, making them perfect as a healthy on-the-go breakfast or afternoon snack. £2.49 each; cuckoofoods.co.uk

BOOK of the month he latest book from bestselling T children’s food writer and mum of three, Annabel Karmel, is a fussfree collection of tasty recipes that will get everyone around the table together whatever their age, so there’s no need to slave over separate dishes for the kids. Our favourite? The naughty-but-nice chocolate and toffee marble cheesecake. Yum. Annabel Karmel’s Family Cookbook (£20), Ebury Press.

OF THE MONTH PIÑA COLADA

A perennial holiday favourite, the piña colada remains our best selling cocktail at Maggie’s. This month, transport yourself back to the beach with our recipe perfected by bar manager Boroka Matte. INGREDIENTS 25ml Pampero Blanco Rum, 25ml Pampero Añejo Rum, 60ml Coco Lopez, Fresh pineapple, Sugar, Maraschino cherry, Lime juice, Grenadine. METHOD

Pour all the rum, coco lopez and a dash of lime juice into a blender, add one scoop of ice and blend for 10 seconds. Pour into a glass (or a coconut shell if you happen to have one to hand!) and garnish with fresh pineapple, a maraschino cherry and a drop of grenadine. Charlie owns and runs several venues in southwest London, including Battersea’s Bunga Bunga; inception-group.com

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05/02/2014 11:53

DISCOVERMORE

Embracing an innovative, modern approach whilst keeping traditional values at its core, Kew House School takes an exciting stance on 21st century education. With state-of-the-art facilities, a broad curriculum and excellent pastoral care, Kew House is

ac e Ye s A ar va s 7 ila , 8 ble &9

Open Days February 27th (9.30am) March 11th/25th (9.30am/9.30am)

a place where you would want to be â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a place of learning and

May 6th (7pm)

discovery, laughter and friendship.

June 17th (9.30am)

T: 0208 742 2038 E: info@kewhouseschool.com W: www.kewhouseschool.com

The new independent co-educational senior school for students aged 11-18 in West London

KEW HOUSE SCHOOL.indd 2

@kewhouseschool

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Perk Up From Cappuccinos in Clapham to Flat Whites in Wimbledon, Absolutely rounds up the best cafés in the south west for a mother’s meeting

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01 Artisan Coff ee Putney

BEST FOR ARTISAN COFFEE (NATURALLY)

A real destination for coffee enthusiasts, Artisan offers home brewing classes using specially selected beans to help you discover how flavour is influenced by origin and learn how to create the most delicious coffee at home. Tasty. FIND IT 203 Upper Richmond Road, SW15, 020 8617 3477; artisancoffee.co.uk

02 Gooseberry Bush Café Wimbledon BEST FOR MOTHER’S MEETINGS

Pretty much mummy heaven: locally-sourced food, shelves lined with gorgeous gifts (think Brixton Pottery, Montezuma’s chocolate and Raggy Tag blankets) and a studio and treatment rooms upstairs offering massages and yoga. Even better, there’s a securely locked shed outside for parking prams. Bliss. FIND IT Gooseberry Bush, 115 Kingston Road, SW19, 020 8543 8720; gooseberrybushcentres.com 06

05 Camden Coff ee House Balham BEST FOR COFFEE CONNOISSEURS

Slick black leather seats, warm orange walls, exceptional coffee – owner Sunni travelled the world for three years learning how create the perfect cup of coffee. The resulting café in Camden was so popular that three other branches sprang up, including one in Balham. The proof is in the perk… FIND IT 208 Balham High Road, SW12, 020 7428 9477; camdencoffeehouse.co.uk

06 Luma Wimbledon BEST FOR HEALTHY LUNCHES

03 The Pantry Wandsworth BEST FOR POST-SCHOOL DROP OFF BRUNCHES

With a simple menu offering organic food made on-site, this café-cum-eatery is a real favourite with locals and it’s easy to see why. Friendly service, a homely atmosphere and cracking food – the hearty soups come highly recommended. FIND IT 342 Old York Road, SW18, 020 8871 0713; thepantrylondon.com

04 Eat Play Love Battersea BEST FOR SPACE TO PLAY

Created by a local mum, Eat Play Love combines a childfriendly café (serving rather scrummy homemade food) with space for activities for little ‘uns, such as Little Cygnets Ballet, Monkey Music and Lola Yoga. There’s also classes for mums. FIND IT 324 Battersea Park Road, SW11, 0844 585 2601; eatplaylove.org.uk

There’s no meat, no dairy and no refined sugars in Lu Ma’s food, but you’d never know it. The food here is delicious, balanced and healthy, and there’s even nutritionists on hand to give you dietary advice. Particularly good for new mum’s in need of nourishment. FIND IT Lu-Ma Healthy Café at the Justin James Hotel, 43 Worple Road, SW19, 020 8947 4271; justinjameshotel.com

07 Grind Coff ee Bar Putney BEST FOR POST-WORKOUT PERK UPS

Originally a drum shop which sold coffee, the drums soon disappeared once people started commuting here for their caffeine. Today it’s always rammed with mums in their gym gears after a run down the river. We say skip the work-out and just enjoy the coffee instead. FIND IT 79 Lower Richmond Road, SW15, 020 8789 5101; grindcoffeebar.co.uk

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10 The Black Lab Clapham BEST FOR AFTER A WALK ON THE COMMON

Named after the Clampham-ites favourite canine, this café prides itself on bringing ‘the good coffee of east London to Clapham’. We enjoyed the coffee, but we loved the 'cronuts' more – the intriguing love child of a croissant and a doughnut. FIND IT 18 Clapham Common South Side, SW4, 020 7738 8441; blacklabcoffee.com

11 Pottery Café Battersea BEST FOR ARTISTIC DISTRACTIONS

Enjoy the Union fair-trade coffee or the Teapigs teas (served with milk in a jug made and painted by the café staff ) whilst your little ones channel their creative energies into expanding your ceramic collection. 09

The ideal opportunity to perfect your ‘Darling, it’s wonderful!’ face. FIND IT 153 Northcote Road, SW11, 020 7223 3388; pottery-cafe.com

12 The Coff ee Cup Wimbledon BEST FOR AN UNDISCOVERED GEM

08 Kaldi Coff ee Wimbledon BEST FOR CONVENIENT COFFEE

Holding its own against the other established chains near by, Kaldi’s convenient location by the station means that it’s perfect for a pitstop en route. Staff here are exceptionally friendly and remember their regulars, who keep coming back not just for the great coffee but for the homemade food too. A great all-rounder. FIND IT 1-9 Wimbledon Road, SW19, 020 8946 5247; kaldicoffee.co.uk

Tucked away on Effra Road off the beaten track, this café specialises in exceptional cakes, be they birthday extravaganzas or teatime accompaniments. We recommend trying one of the decadent Red Velvet Waffles, offered in gluten free and sugar free varieties too. FIND IT 78 Eff ra Road, SW19, 07960 350991; coffeecupwimbledon.eu

09 Dee Light Bakery Balham BEST FOR DEE-LICIOUS BAKED TREATS

Ok, so it isn’t strictly a café, but Balham’s ‘interactive bakery’ is so child friendly that it even has a buggy park and a small play area, so that you can enjoy your purchased patisseries in peace. The bespoke birthday cakes are also exceptional. FIND IT 14 Ritherdon Road, SW17, 020 8672 0250; deelightbakery.com

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Dalila

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The taste mattersâ&#x20AC;?

Lebanese Resturant Dalila combines a contemporary and elegant set up with a warm and inviting atmosphere, reflecting exactly what the Lebanese cuisine is all about. Eat in or take away. Dalila can also cater for your events, office functions or parties.

Mon - Sunday

Happy Hour

50% 6-7pm

off food

Dining in only

Lunch Menu Avaliable From 12:30 - 3pm Alternatively, you can order from our a la carte menu and get a 20% discount 123 Queenstown Road, London SW8 3RH, United Kingdom Open: Mon - Sun: 12:00pm - 3:00pm & 6:00pm - late 0207 622 0555 | www.dalila.co.uk DALILA_NEW_MARCH.indd 2

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PUB OF THE MONTH

THE BRICKLAYER’S ARMS PUTNEY

RESTAURANT REVIEW

DONNA MARGHERITA Georgie Lane-Godfrey gets a taste of la dolce vita in Battersea

here’s been a lot of talk about the pizzas at Donna Margherita on Lavender Hill. Time Out previously nominated it for ‘Best Pizza in London’. Wandsworth-local Johnny Vaughn once said it was ‘the best pizza outside Italy’. So when A and I went to review Donna Margherita, we didn’t even bother trying the pizza – we already knew it was good. And as we saw plates of pizza drift past us, we knew we were right to make this assumption, even if our eyes did follow after them slightly ruefully. Yet by the time our starters arrived, our regrets were gone. The charismatic owner Gabriele had picked out a selection of starters for us: creamy, fresh burrata wrapped in Parma ham, a decadently cheesy baked aubergine covered with tomato sauce, basil, mozzarella and parmesan, and bruschetta napulitane – homemade sourdough toast topped with fresh southern Italian cherry tomatoes, basil, oregano, garlic, chilli and extra-virgin olive oil. The burrata was excellent; a softer, luxurious and most welcome alternative to mozzarella. The bruschetta was also very good, not only because of the sweet, vibrant red cherry tomatoes, but also thanks to the

LOOK Reclaimed floorboards join the pews from a Welsh chapel in this quintessential Victorian public house.

VIBE sourdough toast, which is baked in the restaurant and can be bought by the loaf at weekends. Specializing in the food of southern Italy, from where 90% of the ingredients come, it’s no surprise that one of the longest standing and most popular dishes on the menu is the lobster linguine. We couldn’t resist trying it – half a lobster served in the shell and fresh pasta in a lip-smacking bisque sauce. A simple yet tasty dish, the pasta was compulsive and we mopped up the remaining sauce with our sourdough. This was followed by a slice of the torta caprese – a crumbly, warm almond and chocolate cake – and a solidly classic tiramisu. The best thing about the restaurant though was that the outstanding quality of the food took us by surprise. From outside, the restaurant looks just like any other humble trattoria you’d expect to find in London, yet inside, the food is far beyond ordinary. Unpretentious and reasonably priced, we felt like we’d stumbled across an undiscovered gem on Lavender Hill, and we were more than happy to raise our glasses of prosecco to that.

The Bricklayer’s Arms prides itself on being London’s permanent beer festival – the pub usually buys in the whole range of a particular brewer each week – so expect to find real ale buffs propping up the bar.

FOOD They don’t serve food here – other than peanuts and crisps, of course. Here it’s all about a liquid lunch…

DRINK A CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) award-winning pub, The Bricklayer’s Arms boasts 12 hand pumps offering an ever-changing range of beers from small breweries across the UK. However, the permanent range of ales are also excellent – we recommend a pint of the locally brewed Wandle Ale from Sambrook’s Brewery just up the road in Battersea.

VERDICT A proper beer drinker’s pub, The Bricklayer’s Arms is a real Putney gem.

FIND IT 32 Waterman Street, SW15, 020 8789 0222; bricklayers-arms.co.uk

183 Lavender Hill, SW11, 020 7228 2660; donna-margherita.com

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RECIPE

CARAMELISED RADICCHIO & WINTER RHUBARB ROUND

Pocket-Sized

Pleasures

ood writer and journalist Rose Prince never planned to open a bakery in her home in Battersea – it was just a way for her kids to make a little extra money. However, after a few master classes from sourdough expert Giuseppe Mascoli of Franco Manca fame, the Pocket Bakery went from selling a few loaves to neighbours to stocking the shelves of Fortum & Mason. In her new book, she tells the story and reveals the recipes which transformed her son into a master baker.

adicchio is a bitter-flavoured leaf but if very slowly cooked it becomes as sweet as fruit and can be added to fruity breads – it is sometimes added to panettone in Italy. In this instance it is kneaded into an enriched dough with winter rhubarb to make a loaf with an interesting pinkish-buff-coloured crumb. This has a wet dough that collapses into a flattish, round bread; a wonderful bread to eat with hard cheeses, slices of apple and chutney.

MAKES  2 x 500g/1lb 2oz loaves

EQUIPMENT  2 x baking sheets, 1 lined with baking parchment (for the rhubarb), 1 lightly greased

INGREDIENTS For the sponge, ferment

 3g/½teaspoon fresh yeast or 2g dried  150g/5½oz water  150g/5oz strong white flour

For the filling

 300g/9oz pink winter (forced) rhubarb, cut into 4cm/11/2-inch pieces  300g/9oz radicchio leaves, shredded  A nut of butter

For the dough

 1 quantity of sponge ferment (above)  3g/¼ oz yeast  180g/6½oz Italian ‘00’ white flour, plus extra for dusting  60ml/4 tablespoons extra virgin or rapeseed oil 5g sea salt

Put all the sponge ferment ingredients into a bowl, mix well and leave to ferment for 1 hour at room temperature.

The rhubarb and radicchio can be prepared ready to use in the next stage – allowing cooling time. Preheat the oven to 200°C/400°F/ Gas mark 6. Put the rhubarb on the lined baking sheet and place the pieces of rhubarb on it, 1cm/½ inch apart. Bake for about 30 minutes, until they have roasted but are not browning. Some juice will leach out and evaporate.

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Put the radicchio in a frying pan with the butter and 1 tablespoon of water, and cook over a very low heat for about 15 minutes, until the radicchio is dark brown and tastes sweet. It must not burn, but it will lose its red colour.

Put the dough ingredients, including the sponge ferment, into the bowl of an electric stand mixer and beat for about 10 minutes.

Remove the dough from the bowl to a floured worktop using dough scrapers. Scatter the rhubarb and radicchio over twothirds of the surface. Fold into 3, like a letter, using floured dough scrapers to lift the dough. Pat the dough gently then fold again. Repeat one more time. Put the dough back into the bowl, cover with cling film and place in the fridge overnight.

The following day, take the dough from the fridge. It will be bubbly and firm. Scrape it out of the bowl on to the worktop then lift one edge with a scraper, bringing it into the centre. Repeat, working around the piece of dough, by which time you will have a neat round. Pick up the dough, turn it over so the smooth side is uppermost, and place it on the greased baking sheet. Dust it with a light covering of flour, if it is not already quite floury. Leave to prove for 1 hour, until well risen.

Preheat the oven to 200°C/400°F/Gas mark 6. Before baking, make a series of 4 shallow slashes on the surface of the round with a blade, like a windmill. Bake for 20–30 minutes or until pale brown and airy. Cool on the baking sheet, then eat sliced.

INGREDIENTS  3 egg whites  90g/31/4oz caster sugar  90g/31/4oz sifted icing sugar

For the cream     

2 teaspoons green tea powder 2 tablespoons sugar 225ml/8fl oz double cream, whipped 2 passion fruit, split in half Edible rose petals or fresh mint leaves, to decorate (optional)

RECIPE

PASSION FRUIT MERINGUE CAKE WITH GREEN TEA CREAM gainst the high sweetness of meringue, the intriguing flavour of bitter green tea and exotic passion fruit flesh triumph in a romantically pretty cake. The meringue should be soft in the centre but some like theirs a little more crisp and caramelised. Bake for an extra 20 minutes if so.

SERVES 4 EQUIPMENT 2 baking sheets lined with baking parchment  Piping bag – or use a plastic bag with a hole snipped off the corner as a makeshift piping bag 

Preheat the oven to 100°C/200°F/less than Gas mark 1/4, and prepare the tin. Put the egg whites in a mixing bowl/stand mixer and whisk until soft peaks of white foam form. Gradually sprinkle in the caster sugar, as you whisk, and then continue to whisk for a few minutes until the egg whites are firm and stiff.

Add the sifted icing sugar and continue to whisk – the mixture should eventually become very shiny and stiff. Scoop the mixture into the piping bag and pipe a heart shape on to each of the baking sheets. Bake for 1 hour and 45 minutes, then turn off the oven and leave the door open. When cool, remove the meringues from the oven.

While the meringues becomes completely cold, combine the green tea, sugar and cream. Spread on the surface of one meringue, then scoop small amounts of the passion fruit in evenly spaced little blobs, onto the cream. Place the second meringue on top and then decorate with rose petals or mint leaves.

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Call in for: Brunch, lunch or dinner Freshly roasted coffee 100% homemade bread, cakes & pies Healthy sandwiches Fully licensed for beers & wines Free range meat Soft play area for children

285 Putney Bridge Road Putney SW15 2PT Tel: 020 8780 9393 E: team@theputneycanteen.co.uk www.theputneycanteen.co.uk

We’re Open Mon: 7.00 am - 4.00 pm Tues - Fri: 7.00 am - 11.00 pm Sat: 8.00 am - 11.00 pm Sun: 8.00 am - 5.00 pm

C LEAVERS FREE RANGE BUTCHERS

285 PUTNEY BRIDGE ROAD, PUTNEY SW15 2PT Tel: 020 8780 2285

E: meat@cleaversbutchers.com

www.cleaversbutchers.com

At Cleavers we believe in locally sourced, quality artisan foods BUT at value prices. FEEL FREE TO POP IN AND CHAT OR BROWSE Our meat comes from a selection of wonderful farmers, many small holders raising just 30 animals at a time. traditionally reared • farm assured • responsibly farmed OPEN SUNDAYS & EVERYDAY TILL LATE

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RECIPE

FRUIT PECAN MACAROON

cake that is made like a meringue, but once made is more like a cake, being packed full of fruit and nuts. The texture is similar to a macaroon, being soggy and sticky inside. Ever since making this cake for the first time 20 years ago, I have been amazed by the flavour: a natural toffee taste that emerges when you combine the pecans – no other nut will do – with the other preserved fruits. I have served this cake as an alternative Christmas cake, to great applause.

SERVES 6–8 EQUIPMENT  2 x 30cm/12-inch square baking sheets,

lined with baking parchment  2 x 23cm/9-inch cake rings, lightly greased with groundnut or sunflower oil

INGREDIENTS     

4 egg whites 250g/9oz golden icing sugar, sifted 90g/3oz pecan nuts, finely chopped 90g/3oz dried apricots, finely chopped 90g/3oz dates, finely chopped

Preheat the oven to 150°C/300°F/ Gas mark 2 and prepare the baking sheets and rings. Put the egg whites and sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer and whisk to combine. Turn up the speed to full and whisk for about 10 minutes until the mixture forms stiff peaks when you draw a spoon through it.

 lychees (shelled and stoned),

Fold the chopped pecans and dried fruits into the meringue, making sure they are evenly distributed. Place a cake ring on each baking sheet and spoon an even amount of the mixture into them. Smooth the surface with a spatula but lift it quickly in places to create little peaks that will look crisp and delicious when the cake is finished.

For summer

For the filling

 300ml/10fl oz double cream, whipped  250g/9oz fresh fruit – exotic fruit pulp

seems to match this well.

For winter

pomegranate seeds, passion fruit flesh.

 ripe green or black figs, fresh ripe

apricots, slices of ripe yellow peaches

Optional decoration

 A heap of sugared dates, stuffed with

pecans (brush the dates with egg white and roll in granulated sugar). Fresh sprigs of mint or if you can find them, Provençal glacé apricots.

Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the cakes are pale brown. They may crack in places but it does not matter. Allow both cakes to cool completely, then turn one cake carefully over and place it on a cake stand or plate. Spread the cream all over the surface, then add your chosen fruit. Cover with the second cake, lifting it on carefully so as not to crack it.

Recipe from THE POCKET BAKERY by Rose Prince, published in hardback by Weidenfeld & Nicolson (£18.99).

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06/02/2014 13:59

Latin Odyssey Exquisitely Tailored Travel To South & Central America

A real adventure...

Inspired by you

The Atacama Desert, Chile

PERU

The incredible Incas, Lake Titicaca, colonial Cuzco and Machu Picchu

BRAZIL

Jaguar spotting, Rio de Janeiro and the best beaches in South America

ECUADOR

Colourful markets, snow-capped volcanoes & the Galapagos Islands

PANAMA

Luxury hotels on remote islands, excellent birding and the Panama Canal

CHILE

Lunar landscapes in the Atacama Desert, lakes and Patagonian Mountains

Private Presentations in our office in Putney, or at your own home. Call us to start planning the adventure of a lifetime

info@latinodyssey.com | Tel: 0208 7041389 | www.latinodyssey.com Established for over 10 years, the original Latin America Specialists

LATIN.ODYSSEY_NOV.indd 2

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FOOD & TRAVEL

THE HOTEL

THE SUITE ▲ A first floor suite boasts a master bedroom, a luxurious en-suite bathroom, fullyequipped kitchen and a comfortable seating and dining area. The somewhat gigantic bed has the most cloud-like mattress on the market, ensuring slumber comes easy after a day on the beach. A secluded balcony overlooking the crashing waves lies just outside the bedroom and, once you get the knack of them, French windows allow access to it. Whilst it’s ideal for a couple on a romantic minibreak, children under 14 can be accommodated on z-beds, so it’s great for small families too.

ST. MORITZ Cornwall

 On site since the 1930s, the ‘new’ rebuilt St. Moritz hotel nestles snugly above the village of Trebetherick, near the notorious Rock. Artdeco inspired, a £15million investment saw the hotel transform into a Miami-esque structure, reminiscent of an ocean liner from the outside. Meanwhile inside, it’s all Jamie Oliver-approved interiors by Absolute Design of Falmouth. Made up of 48 hotel bedrooms and 16 suites, each with jawdropping seaside views, St. Moritz is a gem of an escape for both the weekender and the holidaymaker.

The Cowshed Spa

THE RESTAURANT ▲ With an impressive breakfast buffet and dinner menu, new head chef (and Rick Stein protégé) Jamie Porter delivers on quality, freshness and locality of ingredients. The Cornish Crab Salad is crustacean heaven, whilst the Whole Plaice with Brown Shrimps and Capers is rather good too. For a change of scenery, spring and summer lunches can be enjoyed by the pool (with a sea view) at ‘Sea Side at St Moritz’ – an adorable outhouse serving light bites such as crunchy, crispy squid and oriental mussels.

▲ Enveloped within the cosy confines of the hotel is the Cornish Cowshed, part of the much-loved family of Cowshed spas. Available to guests and non-residents alike, the spa is home to a comprehensive gym, lap and fun pools, a sauna and a Hamman-style steam room. A number of beauty treatments are on offer, but we highly recommend the Cowshed 60-minute facial. Using Cowshed’s signature therapeutic products, it includes exfoliation, cleansing, a relaxing massage and a bespoke facial mask, leaving your skin feeling fresh and clean, free from any sand, salt or stress.

£ T H E DA M AG E

A ground floor suite from £210 per night including breakfast, first floor sea view suite from £345 per night. Average lunch is £17.50 for 2 courses, and dinner, £30 for 3 courses. The Cowshed 60-minute facial treatment is £60. Trebetherick, Wadebridge, Cornwall, PL27 6SD, 01208 862242; stmoritzhotel.co.uk

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05/02/2014 13:58

escap The Sweet

Bespoke travel agency Latin Odyssey offers their expert opinion on finding something for everyone in South and Central America

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06/02/2014 17:10

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FOR THE BEACH BUNNY

or many, the idea of F the perfect holiday is relaxing on the beach surrounded by pure white sands. Luckily, Latin America is in no short supply of beaches but with such a range of choices, which do you go for?

Buzios in Brazil With a coastline of over 4,600 miles, Brazil’s beaches are not hard to come by and some of the best are to be found in Buzios. Located to the east of Rio de Janeiro, lying on a peninsular containing over 25 beaches, Buzios is an ideal destination for those longing to lounge on the white sands and take a dip in the crystal water and perhaps even plan an overnight stay in Rio (if you can tear yourself away from your deck chair). ‘Discovered’ by Brigitte Bardot in 1964 when it was little more than a sleepy fishing village, today it is made up of small low rise pousadas and lodges, most of which overlook the ocean and surrounding bays. LATIN ODYSSEY OFFERS

La Chimère Hotel, a charming pousada only 30m from Ossos beach. From January-June, stay 5 nights and pay for only 4.

FOR THE ADVENTURER

For many, the idea of the perfect holiday is relaxing on the beach surrounded by pure white sands

FOR THE CULTURE VULTURE

xploring a city – the architecture, the local customs and cuisine, discovering the nightlife and culture – is what appeals to many holidaymakers. So if you can’t live without the buzz of a brand new city we have just the place for you…

Buenos Aires in Argentina Buenos Aires, known as the ‘Paris of South America’ is a fascinating, colourful city with a European feel and a personality all of its own. Its districts range from the bohemian La Boca, an artistic district with colourful late colonial buildings, the rejuvenated and hip Palermo Soho with all the new boutique hotels and bars, to the more fashionable Recoleta district with botanical and Japanese gardens and smart cafés ideal for watching life go by.

f you are one for whom the call of the wild is just too strong to resist and whose idea of a fantastic time is zipping through a forest canopy, then you might like to try…

Monteverde in Costa Rica Monteverde is the best possible example of cloud forest – an astoundingly fertile environment that is teeming with life. The near 100% humidity means that from forest floor to leafy canopy, it’s just layer upon layer of plant life, inhabited by myriad mammals, birds and insects. Wandering the trails in the early morning is an utterly magical experience that leaves you feeling as if you are the first person to ever discover it. LATIN ODYSSEY OFFERS

A complimentary zip wiring tour, the best (and most exhilarating) way to get around when you book a 14 night Costa Rica holiday. On top of all the aforementioned offers, Latin Odyssey will offer a 5% discount to all Absolutely readers, quoting reference ABLO14 when booking. The discount does not include flights.

LATIN ODYSSEY OFFERS

A complimentary city tour included with any 3-night stay to help first time visitors really get to grips with the history of Buenos Aires.

LATIN ODYSSEY 5 The Mews, Putney Common, SW15, 020 8704 1398; latinodyssey.com

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06/02/2014 17:10

Brave new world

As a British colony, Hong Kong was an enduring reminder of former empiric grandeur. Yet today is a very different story. 20 years since her last visit, broadcaster Sue Lawley returns to discover a city charging headlong into the futureâ&#x20AC;Ś 70

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ABSOLU TELY

FOOD & TRAVEL

ong Kong has no room for the past. Its history lies buried beneath the crowd of skyscrapers that smother every inch of its surface, a constantly replenished jungle of stone, steel and glass. For a hundred and fifty years Hong Kong was a British colony. Extracted from the mainland of imperial China at the end of the Opium Wars in 1842, it survived invasion and occupation by the Japanese in the Second World War and the upheavals of the Chinese Communist Revolution until we returned it to China in 1997. A stroll round Hong Kong today, however, reveals none of this. Only the Peak Tram, a dainty piece of Victorian engineering that trundles tourists by the wagonload from the centre of the city to its highest point, reminds you of its colonial past. I hadn’t visited Hong Kong for more than twenty years – long before the handover to China. It may now be part of the People’s Republic of China but it has special status: it is still run on a capitalist system. And it’s growing at a colossal rate. However, residents can’t be certain what the future holds. ‘We have to be patient,’ I was told by a district judge. ‘We don’t know what will happen – but if you go to cities such as Shanghai, they are every bit as commercial as here. They don’t seem ‘communist’ at all.’ Other residents are more sceptical. A distinguished British-born Chinese man told me that the unseen but controlling hand of the People’s Republic now infected all the major decisions about the government of Hong Kong. Armed with these political thoughts, I set out to explore the world’s most vertical city. In the best areas, land is at a premium – apartments sell for about £3,000 per square foot, as much, if not more, than the swishest Knightsbridge properties – but beyond the city lie miles of untouched countryside, too steep and unforgiving to be developed. I was taken by boat around some of the hundreds of uninhabited islands and their beautiful beaches off the coast of the New Territories and shown nature trails that lead through miles of forest. Hiking, sailing and golf are now important Hong Kong activities: an essential escape from the suffocating crowds at its heart. My own escape from the bustle lay in the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, the first luxury hotel to be opened in Hong Kong, which is this year celebrating its fiftieth anniversary. Here you can imagine what

It may be part of the People’s Republic of China, but Hong Kong still has special status

life in colonial days might have been like. The place is immaculate: you feel like the governor (or the governor’s wife) as soon as you walk in. Doors are opened, lifts summoned, bags carried and tables booked by an army of staff, each one of whom treats you as if you were the only person who mattered. It’s very addictive. The only thing that’s changed about this hotel is its location. It’s still in the same spot – but whereas it once stood almost on the waterfront near where the Star Ferry crosses from Hong Kong Island to Kowloon, it’s now five hundred yards back from the water. Land has been reclaimed from the harbour to allow more building. That’s Hong Kong for you. Although none of this appears to have affected the hotel’s views, and its restaurants, bars and rooms still offer a magnificent panorama of Victoria Harbour – one of the great maritime sights of the world. The Mandarin Oriental is still the epitome of Asian luxury. Such service does not come cheap, of course, but if you want a refuge from the enervating world of Hong Kong, it’s the place to be. Since passing into Chinese hands, Hong Kong’s entrepreneurial activity has only increased. But something else seems to be happening too. The city has a more international feel – perhaps the result of the flood of Chinese who now visit from across the border. Kowloon, the home of

B&C_Mar_HongKong.indd 71

06/02/2014 09:10

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03/02/2014 15:57

ABSOLU TELY

FOOD & TRAVEL

Chinese night markets and tailors’ shops, is now also full of global shopping brands which jostle for space between the myriad of stalls and shops selling goods from all over the world. On Hong Kong Island, a stroll along Hollywood Road – on what are called the Mid-Levels – reveals an endless parade of trendy art galleries and designer boutiques. In the old days you would never have thought of Hong Kong as an ‘arty’ place. That’s all changing now. But the essence of Hong Kong remains: its flood of trade is like the estuary of a great river fed by tributaries from many different places. This new dynamism affects two of the things for which Hong Kong has always been famous – food and architecture. You can still eat a sumptuous meal at any one of the hundreds of local restaurants, often choosing your seafood from a tank in the window – hairy crab, abalone (sea snails) and squid – but in recent years the international march of the foodie army has arrived on Hong Kong’s shores, sprinkling its stars and its little red forks on restaurants of all descriptions. Eating in Hong Kong has always been an adventure into a culinary jungle, but these days they give you a map. Making a decision about where to eat proved one of the most taxing parts of my visit.

Language is just about the only element of Hong Kong’s colonial past that’s still in existence

And the buildings just get taller. The new International Commerce Centre which stands at the western end of Victoria Harbour is – at over 1,500 feet – now the tallest building in the city. They wanted to make it even taller, but that would have meant it was higher than Hong Kong’s highest natural point, The Peak, so the building was scaled back. Nevertheless, it’s a towering reminder of the energy and power that Asia, and particularly China, is now unleashing. Under the Basic Law that was enacted as part of the handover to China, English remains, with Chinese, one of the city’s two official languages – a status it will retain for the next thirty-four years at least. But language is just about the only element of Hong Kong’s colonial past that’s still in existence. Everything else has gone, obliterated by the city’s relentless march into the future, a metropolis stretching ever upwards in its search for commercial heaven. It is a twenty-first century phenomenon: a place where the world is changing fast. It’s this that makes Hong Kong a place that has to be seen.

MANDARIN ORIENTAL

5 nights at Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong from £1,595 per person, including breakfast, flights and transfers booked with Audley Travel, who offer tailor made itineraries throughout Southeast Asia (audleytravel.com/01993 838 100). For further information on Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong please call +852 2522 0111 or visit mandarinoriental.com/hongkong

B&C_Mar_HongKong.indd 73

06/02/2014 09:10

SIGNATURE CARE HOMES_MARCH.indd 1

03/02/2014 16:14

FREE COLLECTION & BOXES

CLAPHAM JUNCTION • Acres of private fenced fields • Constant supervision • Heated indoor areas • Swimming pools • Agility course • Socialisation

COURIER SERVICES

Worldwide & UK deliveries of urgent documents packages and parcels.

PACKAGING SOLUTIONS

A complete range of specialist packaging supplies and professional packing services. Insurance provided.

Call: 0207 205 2230 www.brucesdoggydaycare.co.uk

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ADVERT PLACEMENTS_MARCH.indd 9

Liscensed & Insured

Mail Boxes Etc. Clapham Junction 264 Lavender Hill • London • SW11 1LJ • t +44(0)207 924 7459 f +44(0)207 223 3406 • e info@mbeclaphamjunction.co.uk www.mbeclaphamjunction.co.uk

11/12/2012 19:43 MAILBOXES.indd 1

06/12/2013 12:28 06/02/2014 17:19

ABSOLUTELY PROMOTION

FUN IN THE

SUN BROADEN YOUR KID’S HORIZONS BY CHOOSING ONE OF POWDER BYRNE’S ACTION-PACKED SPORTS PROGRAMMES FOR TEENAGERS IN AN IDYLLIC MEDITERRANEAN RESORT.

olidays are precious – they build memories and give that priceless quality time with family. Getting the perfect balance between what is right for each member of the family – particularly when it comes to teenagers – can sometimes be stressful. Using their extensive expertise in providing luxury personalised family holidays, Powder Byrne has come up with the answer with their range of fun and educational Sports Academies. Taking place during school holidays in its summer Mediterranean resorts in Elba, Sardinia, Portugal and Crete, the programmes are run by handpicked PB Sports Academy managers under the direction of qualified local English speaking instructors, who work exclusively for Powder Byrne. These courses are both engaging and educational – teens learn new skills in a relaxed, fun but safe environment. And best of all? There’s loads of activities to choose from, so they’ll never get bored.

For example, in Sardinia they can sail and windsurf at the stunning but safe bay at Porto Pollo Beach, learning how to read the wind, jibe and tack, capsize and right their boat, all under the careful supervision of Powder Byrne’s qualified instructors. Or why not let them have a go at riding the Atlantic waves with some of the best surf instructors to be found on the famous Guincho surf beach on Portugal’s Atlantic coast? Meanwhile in Crete, there’s a whole underwater world waiting to be discovered in the PB SCUBA Academy, as the kids work towards gaining their PADI qualification. However, it’s not just water sports that are on offer. Back on terra firma, they can develop their ball skills in either the PB Tennis or Football Academies in Elba, Italy, where they will be professionally taught by Powder Byrne’s own LTA and FA accredited coaches. Whichever sport

they choose, your kids are guaranteed to have a great time, learn a life skill and meet friends with the same interests along the way. And while teenagers are off learning new skills, parents can fully relax making the most of their resort. For those wanting a bit of action themselves, there’s plenty on offer – golf, bikes, private boat hire – or why not just enjoy down-time by the pool, on the beach or in the spa? All Powder Byrne hotels are renowned for their world-class cuisine, with restaurants offering local and international delicacies. Meanwhile, younger kids will have fun too in Powder Byrne’s active age-related programmes, so that all the family are catered for. Wherever you decide to go, Powder Byrne’s dedicated Sports Academies are the perfect way to broaden your kids' horizons, giving them the chance to discover a new skill whilst having a whole lot of fun. Stay at Porto Elounda, Crete this summer. Price from £1,359 per adult for 7 nights from 12th July on B&B. Price includes private transfers from Heraklion and full Powder Byrne resort team service. Flights quoted for separately. Price for PB Sports Academies for kids aged 13+ start from £395 per person for 5 mornings tuition. Call Powder Byrne for more information on 020 8246 5300 or visit powderbyrne.com Powder Byrne, 250 Upper Richmond Road, SW15, 020 8246 5300; powderbyrne.com

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06/02/2014 11:49

Preparatory School for girls aged four to eleven

The Ursuline Preparatory School We warmly welcome you to our Wimbledon

“One school, two An Independent Catholic School for girls aged 4 to 11 buildings, great teaching and Co-educational Nursery for children aged 3 to 4 Saturday 1 March 2014 and tip top facilities.”

Open Morning

Wilberforce House for 4–8 year olds 09.30 – 12.00 Spencer House for 9–11 year olds 10.00 – 12.30

The Good Schools Guide Registered Charity No.271012

We offer an assisted places scheme for girls aged 7+

The Ursuline Preparatory School www.thestudyprep.co.uk Wimbledon

For further details please call Jane Davis on 020 8947 6969

An Independent Catholic School for girls aged03/02/2014 4 to 11 16:21 and Co-educational Nursery for children aged 3 to 4

STUDY PREP SCHOOL_MARCH.indd 1

The The Ursuline Ursuline Preparatory Preparatory School School Wimbledon Wimbledon The Ursuline Preparatory School Wimbledon

An Independent An Independent Catholic Catholic School School for for girls girls aged aged 4 to4 11 to 11 4

An Independent Catholic School and for girls aged 4 to 11 and Co-educational Co-educational Nursery Nursery for for children children aged aged 3 to3 4to and Co-educational Nursery for children aged 3 to 4

BUILDING DEVELOPMENT - OPENING SEPTEMBER 2014

New Classroom block of eight classrooms

providing facilities for Nursery and Reception,

New Classroom block of eight classrooms and Pre-Prep (Years 1 and 2)

providing facilities for Nursery and Reception, Come and visit us - you will be sure of a warm welcome and Pre-Prep (Years 1 and 2)

The Ursuline Preparatory School, 18 The Downs, Wimbledon, London SW20 8HR

Tel: 020 8947 0859

www.ursuline-prep.merton.sch.uk

Come and visit us - you will be sure of a warm welcome BUILDING DEVELOPMENT - OPENING SEPTEMBER 2014 New Classroom block of eight classrooms

providing facilities for Nursery and Reception, The Ursuline Preparatory School, and Pre-Prep (Years 1 and 2)

Tel: 020 8947 0859

admissions@wups.co.uk

18 The Downs, Wimbledon, London SW20 8HR

www.ursuline-prep.merton.sch.uk

admissions@wups.co.uk

Come and visit us - you will be sure of a warm welcome The Ursuline Preparatory School, 18 The Downs, Wimbledon, London SW20 8HR URSELINE.indd 1 Tel: 020 8947 0859

www.ursuline-prep.merton.sch.uk

ADVERT PLACEMENTS_MARCH.indd 10

06/02/2014 15:16

admissions@wups.co.uk

06/02/2014 17:19

ABSOLU TELY

FAMILY FUN READ

all about it  Remember these? Books that survive all manner of chuckings, drownings and bitings? These vintage cloth books feature all our favourite nursery rhymes – excellent for encouraging little‘uns to get reading for World Book Day this month. £7.90; hedgehogshop.co.uk

YOUNG

soles

 Using traditional methods and tooling, Young Soles’s debut collection features classic British heritage designs with reworked T-Bar and Mary Janes for girls and brogues, creepers and monkey boots for boys. Spiffing. youngsoles.co.uk

LITTLE MISS

sunshine

▲ Take inspiration from this month’s ubiquitous daffodils with this cute and cheery dress from M&S. £16, 4 Queen’s Rd, SW19, 020 8944 5839; marksandspencer.com

Kids NNOTES OTES O TES or’s e d it c k pi

LEFT field NO PLACE

like home

▲ Forget the gingerbread house. Cath Kidston’s oh-so-cute cottage lamp is straight out of a fairy tale. £68, 142 Northcote Road, SW11, 020 7228 6571; cathkidston.com

ield Candy’s range of children’s play tents are designed for both indoors and outdoors, are based on the classic teepee shape and decorated with bright murals. We love this fairground horse tent with its wonderfully nostalgic pattern. £195; fieldcandy.com

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05/02/2014 12:47

The Falcons School for Girls Independent School for Girls aged 3-11 years

The Falcons School for Girls is moving to Putney

Opening in its new location in September 2014

Achieve Academic Excellence ‘London’s Most Creative Preparatory School’

www.falconsgirls.co.uk To make an appointment with Headteacher Miss Joan McGillewie please contact the school directly on 020 8992 5189 or email admin@falconsgirls.co.uk

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ABSOLU TELY

EDUCATION

BY ANY MEANS… A recent survey has revealed the lengths some professional parents will go to to get their children into the school of their choice. Amanda Constance investigates ILLUSTRATION BY PHIL COUZENS

eet Martha. She’s busy organizing Sunday school for her local church, where she’s a ‘key helper’. Then she’s got to get Alfie to his Mandarin lesson, while her other son, Arthur, has his weekly jiu-jitsu class after that. James, her other half, is busy at home cooking meals for the homeless – more church points in the bag, thanks very much. Life’s tricky at the moment. They are desperately trying to buy a house in the catchment area for St Mungo’s but property is just so expensive; it’s all sealed bids, even for derelict houses, or so it seems to her. Then again, they’re using her mum’s home address as back-up, so they should be OK. Martha was educated privately, of course, as was James, but there’s no money in publishing these days, is there? Really, it’s enough to make you move to Kent… Martha is fictitious but hers is a familiar story for any professional London parent. Indeed, a recent report from education charity The Sutton Trust has revealed just how far some wealthier parents will go to get their children into the most-sought after state schools.

The survey, entitled ‘Parent Power?’, focuses on the upper-middle classes. It reveals that a third of professional parents sought out a good school when moving house, with 18% choosing the catchment area of a specific school. This is hardly news for any Londoner, where catchment boundaries are poured over, Zoopla is updated by the minute, and aggressive gazumping near good schools is the norm. I know of one family who rented opposite the school gates of a desirable North fter almost 50 years of single-sex education, Cranmore School has announced that it will expand to educate girls up to the age of seven from September 2014. Having received an ‘outstanding’ rating in the latest inspection, the school’s headmaster Michael Connolly comments, ‘The introduction of co-education in our nursery has been a tremendous success and there has been considerable demand for us to extend this so that girls can benefit from the exceptional opportunities which are currently enjoyed by the boys.’ Next Open Days: 28th February & 1st March; cranmoreprep.co.uk

London primary (at great cost) because the catchment area had shrunk to a radius of just 300 metres. Another family, in Camden, rented an additional property on their own street to get into a catchment area, moving back into their own home when their child had secured a place. The research, led by academics at King’s College London and London Metropolitan University, and based on interviews with 1,173 parents across England with schoolage children, lays bare some of the more underhand tactics the sharp-elbowed set will use to cheat the system. An astonishing 5% of upper-middle class parents admitted to buying a second home, then using that address to gain access to a specific school, while 6% of professionals illegally used a relative’s address for the same purpose. One in ten confessed to feigning religious beliefs to get into a desirable church school. And nearly one in five wealthier families employed a private tutor specifically to prepare their child for a school entrance exam – almost four times the rate of other parents. While there’s no denying that some of these methods are extremely pushy at best or plain immoral at worst, is it really so bad to do the very best for your child? David Cameron has, after all, pointedly refused to denounce pushy parents but then, he’s in no position to; his kids are at St Mary’s Abbots in Kensington, the Holy Grail of church primary schools for many professional London parents. The Sutton Trust report’s authors, however, are less equable. One of them, Professor Becky Francis, says: ‘Our research shows just how far equality of opportunity is being undermined by the greater purchasing power of some parents. The ability for some parents but not others to use financial resources to secure their children’s achievement poses real impediments for social mobility.’ The report recommends the expansion of lottery-style entry rules to break the middle-class stranglehold on places, as well as monitoring the social background of pupils to help create a more balanced intake. It also advocates means-tested vouchers to enable poorer families to pay for extra-curricular activities. None of which would be popular with the overstretched professionals who often go to legitimate, if extreme, lengths to make sure their children get into good schools. As Nick Faith, from the Policy Exchange think tank, says: ‘It’s not right to stigmatise parents for trying to do the best by their children. Instead of making scapegoats of people who are simply attempting to improve the life chances of their kids, the focus should be on driving up the quality of teaching in the poorest areas.’ The Marthas of this world would surely agree with that.

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06/02/2014 17:13

ISS.indd 2

31/01/2014 10:20

ABSOLUTELY PROMOTION

Are your numbers not adding up? Numberworks’nWords can help you & your child get to grips with the latest methods for teaching maths

re you confused by ‘chunking’ and left numb by ‘partitioning’? Can you get to grips with the grid method? Maths lessons in primary schools today can be almost unrecognisable when compared to lessons of the past. Traditional methods such as long multiplication or division have been done away with for younger students, and replaced with new processes and ‘new fangled’ terminology, such as ‘expanded partitioning’ and the elusive ‘chunking’. Parents can find themselves left in the dark and scratching their heads whilst trying to help with maths homework. Many question what was wrong with the old traditional methods as, after all, ‘they worked for us didn’t they?’ These new methods are designed to work more intuitively and encourage a greater understanding of the way arithmetic works. For example, the grid method highlights the importance of place value when multiplying. At Numberworks’nWords, we ensure all of our tutors are trained in current arithmetic methods, so we can work perfectly in sync with your child’s school. For many children these methods support their understanding and their eventual transition to traditional methods. However, some children can struggle with a particular method and this, coupled with parents who are unfamiliar with new

Does Your Child Need Tuition?  Is your child in the best set they can be in at school?  Is your son or daughter happy and confident with homework?  Is your child the best she/he can be? If you answer is 'no' then it just doesn’t add up. At Numberworks’nWords we help your children develop their true potential. NumberWorks’nWords are the after-school tuition experts, bringing out the best is in children by:  Tailoring lessons according to each individual’s needs  Setting goals and monitoring their progress  Using their own programmes developed by specialist maths and English educationalists.

methods, can be incredibly frustrating and affect a pupil’s confidence in maths. At Numberworks’nWords, we believe children need to feel comfortable with whatever method they use. If one of our pupils is struggling, we will support them to find the method which works for them. We encourage pupils to bring in any homework they are finding tricky and are more than happy to sit down with a parent to explain current methods. Success in maths is all about building student confidence and self esteem. There’s nothing better than to see children, who previously hated maths and were reluctant to even try, become really confident and ask, ‘Can I do the topic test now?’ This is a sign that they are enjoying maths, have high self esteem and are becoming numerate. Their numbers now add up.

'Success in maths is all about building student confidence and self esteem.' Numberworks’nWords Wimbledon: 020 8543 7333 Numberworks’nWords Battersea: 020 7223 1882 www.numberworks.co.uk

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06/02/2014 11:47

Smart is always the first to know. Get instant property alerts

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27/01/2014 09:34 11:39 08/01/2014

MARCH 2014

ABSOLUTELY

PROPERTY

MELROSE AVENUE, SW19 A stunning five bedroom Victorian family home in Wimbledon Park, close to good schools and transport links. This property boasts a spacious reception room with character fireplace, stunning and well designed kitchen/ breakfast room with bay window and French doors onto a delightful southerly aspect garden.

ÂŁ900,000 Freehold Ellisons, Wimbledon | 020 8944 9494 | ellisons.uk.com

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PRIMROSE MANSIONS, SW11 An extremely well proportioned at on rince of Wales Drive situated on the 1st oor with sweeping views over Battersea ark. Retaining many of its period features throughout. Approx. 85 sq ft. Energy Rating: D. Bedroom, bathroom, reception room. Freehold Share Guide Price £750,000

TENNYSON STREET, SW8 An extremely well presented and proportioned garden at in this converted ictorian terraced house, with its own front door from the street. Approx. 683 sq ft. Energy Rating: C. 2 bedrooms, bathroom, reception room, garden. Lease to 2170 Guide Price £585,000 SOLD

Brynmaer Road, SW11

SOLD

Guide £2,700,000 Rosenau Crescent, SW11

SOLD

Guide £2,000,000 Ship House, SW11

BATTERSEA 020 7293 0348 battersea@johndwood.co.uk

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SOLD

Guide £875,000 Cyril Mansions, SW11

Guide £899,000

johndwood.co.uk

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Abs

HEYTHORP STREET, SW18 An exceptional Edwardian house located on this highly regarded residential road on the ever popular Southfields ‘Grid’. Approx. 1,493 sq ft. Energy Rating: D. 4 bedrooms, bathroom, en suite shower, reception, open-plan kitchen/diner, cloakroom, garden. Freehold Guide Price £1,000,000 SOLD

Lavenham Road, SW18

SOLD

Guide £950,000 Brookwood Road, SW18

SOLD

Guide £975,000 Elborough Street, SW18

SOUTHFIELDS 020 8870 8811 southfields@johndwood.co.uk

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SOLD

Guide £1,150,000 Melrose Avenue, SW19

Guide £1,350,000

johndwood.co.uk

31/01/2014 12:50 31/01/2014 09:11

BLUEWATER HOUSE, SW18

MENDIP COURT, SW11

A west facing flat located on the floor, with balcony providing views of the river. Approx. 06 sq ft. Energy Rating: C. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, reception, concierge, parking available separate negotiation .

A substantial apartment with fabulous river views in both directions. Approx. 61 sq ft. Energy Rating: D. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, reception room, terrace, parking, porter.

Lease to 2996 Guide Price £565,000

Leasehold Guide Price £550,000

DOLPHIN HOUSE, SW18

A beautifully presented apartment bene tting from fabulous views across the river. Approx. 667 sq ft. Energy Rating: C. 2 bedrooms, bathroom, reception, concierge, parking available separate negotiation .

A beautifully presented apartment set on the 4th floor with river views. Approx. 624 sq ft. Energy Rating: C. 2 bedrooms, bathroom, reception, communal gardens, concierge, parking available separate negotiation.

Lease to 2997 Guide Price £550,000

Lease to 2997 Guide Price £500,000

SOLD

St Ann’s Hill, SW18

SOLD

Guide £545,000 Earls eld Road, SW1

SOLD

Guide £1,450,000 Winfrith Road, SW18

WANDSWORTH 020 8871 3033 wandsworth@johndwood.co.uk

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SOLD

Guide £565,000 Galesbury Road, SW18

Guide £500,000

johndwood.co.uk

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Abs

GATEWAY HOUSE, SW12 An exceptional 5th floor apartment located near the common. Close to Clapham South Undergound station with all the shops and facilities of Balham Hill. Approx. 916 sq ft. Energy Rating: D. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, kitchen/reception room, study, balcony, underground parking. Leasehold Guide Price £650,000

ALDERBROOK ROAD, SW12 A spacious split-level apartment situated on the top floor of this period house in the desirable Nightingale Triangle. Conveniently located close to the amenities of Clapham South. Approx. 610 sq ft. Energy Rating: E. Bedroom, bathroom, open-plan kitchen/reception room. Leasehold Guide Price £450,000 SOLD

Lessar Avenue, SW4

SOLD

Guide £1,795,000 Covington Way, SW16

SOLD

Guide £595,000 Parkthorne Road, SW12

CLAPHAM 020 8673 2854 clapham@johndwood.co.uk

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SOLD

Guide £799,000 Reed Place, SW4

Guide £600,000

johndwood.co.uk

31/01/2014 12:50 31/01/2014 09:11

Devereux Road

£2,695,000 Freehold

This incredible new build house has been built with a stunning period style façade and a high end contemporary interior. The architect has designed the internal space, with modern day family needs in mind from the start - rare for this area.

• Five bedrooms • Kitchen/ Family room • Reception/ Drawing Room • Five Bathrooms (four en-suite) • Media/ Playroom • Utility room • Two downstairs cloakrooms • Wine room • Gymnasium • Outside Patio • Garden • Ten year new build warranty

131 Nor thcote Road London SW11 6PS T:020 7228 5111 batterseasales@ramptonbaseley.com www.ramptonbaseley.com

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The Orangery

£1,750,000 Freehold

Occupying a large plot on this sought after residential road is this superb Freehold house with excellent lateral space. The entire accommodation is arranged over the ground floor (a rare find in the area) with excellent proportions in all of the principle rooms. One of the major features that is instantly noticeable is the tremendous sense of natural light. The property boasts mainly large sash windows and French doors throughout.

• Three bedrooms • Reception room • Kitchen/dining room • Family bathroom • En suite shower room • Conservatory • Patio garden • Secure off street parking

131 Nor thcote Road London SW11 6PS T:020 7228 5111 batterseasales@ramptonbaseley.com www.ramptonbaseley.com

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Dents Road £1,750,000 Freehold

An extremely grand family house, positioned on one of the most sought after roads between the commons. This stunning semi-detached Victorian property requires modernisation, offering the incoming purchaser an opportunity to design a house suiting their own tastes and needs.

• Five bedrooms • Double reception room • Kitchen/breakfast room • Ground floor and first floor w/c • Separate family bathroom • Garden • Cellar • Side access

Ballingdon Road £1,695,000 Freehold This attractive five bedroom Victorian house is positioned on one of the most sought after residential streets between the commons. The property has been extended on the ground floor into the side return, on the top floor into the loft space and is immaculately presented throughout.

• Five double bedrooms • Reception room • Kitchen • Family room • Ground floor w/c • Family bath/shower room • En suite bath/ shower room • En suite bathroom • Garden • Cellar

131 Nor thcote Road London SW11 6PS T:020 7228 5111 batterseasales@ramptonbaseley.com www.ramptonbaseley.com

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Bowood Road £1,675,000 Freehold

This absolutely stunning family house measures approximately 2,150 sq ft and boasts a tremendous sense of light and space throughout. The house is immaculately presented and incorporates high quality materials and fittings throughout.

• Four double bedrooms • Double reception room • Kitchen/dining room • Ground floor w/c • Family bathroom • En suite bath/ shower room • West-facing garden • Cellar

Altenburg Gardens £1,675,000 Freehold Measuring circa 2,240 square feet, this superb modern house boasts light and spacious living accommodation arranged over three floors. The house was built with a Victorian style façade which is in keeping with the rest of the street.

• Four double bedrooms • Study/play room • Kitchen/family room • Ground floor w/c/ utility room • Master bath/shower room • Family bath/shower room • En suite shower room • Roof terrace • West facing garden

131 Nor thcote Road London SW11 6PS T:020 7228 5111 batterseasales@ramptonbaseley.com www.ramptonbaseley.com

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Rusham Road £800 per week

Boasting great entertaining and living space, the ground floor comprises a spacious hallway with downstairs loo, a reception room to the front of the property and kitchen/breakfast room to the rear which leads onto a pretty decked garden that also has a separate workshop area.

• Reception room • Kitchen/breakfast room • Downstairs loo • Garden • Workshop area • Four double bedrooms • Family bathroom • Separate loo • En-suite bathroom • Eave storage • Unfurnished

Marcilly Road £750 per week A Victorian house situated next to Wandsworth Common which provides beautiful living and entertaining space. The accommodation is arranged over three floors with superb living space on the ground floor and four very good sized double bedrooms on the upper levels.

• Four bedrooms • Double reception room • Extended kitchen/dining room • Family bathroom • Shower room • Downstairs loo • West facing garden

50ft (approx)

131 Nor thcote Road London SW11 6PS T:020 7228 5111 batterseasales@ramptonbaseley.com www.ramptonbaseley.com

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£575 per week

Winsham Grove

• Two double bedrooms • Study/nursery • Kitchen • Reception room • Bathroom • Loft storage • Own front door • Unfurnished

Northcote Road

£440 per week

• Two double bedrooms • Reception room • Bathroom • Shower room • Eat in kitchen • Unfurnished

£425 per week

• Two double bedrooms • Reception room • Eat in kitchen • Bathroom • Furnished/Unfurnished • Available immediately

Bramfield Road

Honeywell Road

£310 per week

• Reception room • Open plan kitchen/breakfast room • Double bedroom • Modern bathroom • Great location

131 Nor thcote Road London SW11 6PS T:020 7228 5111 batterseasales@ramptonbaseley.com www.ramptonbaseley.com

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05/02/2014 11:34

ABSOLUTELY Property

IN THEIR OWN

WORDS CAROLINE BASMA

Lettings Manager at KFH’s Earlsfield branch

efore finding my feet in property, I used to work for Lloyds insurance brokers in the City. One day a close friend suggested I may make a good negotiator and after finally passing my driving test, I took the plunge and went to work in a lettings office. After working there for two years, I was recruited by Kinleigh Folkard & Hayward to manage their Earlsfield lettings branch. That was back in 1997, and one child and one dog later, I’m still here. KFH has grown so much since then, but has managed to retain many staff members over the years, which is one of the many aspects which makes KFH stand out. In fact, many senior staff have been with the company for well over 15 years, which is an especially distinguishing quality when you take a look at the property industry, which usually experiences a very high staff turnover. Since joining the Earlsfield branch those 17 years ago, the area has evolved and improved immensely. Earlsfield has since cultivated a very cosmopolitan atmosphere, with a close knit community feel which appeals to many different types of buyers and tenants. It also has a great transport link into central London via the Overground train station which is ideal for commuters. Earlsfield also benefits from being situated in the borough of Wandsworth, which currently offers one of the cheapest

council taxes in the UK, which is a very appealing factor for many, and the new developments at Southside shopping centre are particularly attractive to young professionals. Families also love the area, largely because it offers a good selection of large Victorian family houses, green open spaces and a great range of organic cafes, gastro pubs and coffee shops. In particular, the ‘yummy mummy’ set are very fond of the area and its high street, with new boutiques and cute coffee shops popping up all along Garret Lane. Belle Amie coffee shop is a huge hit among locals who love its family friendly atmosphere, and a bit further down is Mel’s Vintage Beats & Breakfast, which is popular with young professionals and serves great food. Earlsfield offers a good number of properties across a varied price range, from ex local authority properties to new builds, as well as family houses. Rental prices in the area range from around £1,650 per month for a two bedroom garden flat, up to £2,500 to £2,750 per month, for a four bedroom family house. The rental market has been strong for a number of years in Earlsfield and this year we’ve seen a 61% rise in registered tenants compared to the same time last year. With this kind of demand, we anticipate an equally successful 2014. 020 8875 2980 • kfh.co.uk

Photo Creditation: Belle Amie Breakfast & Brunch Restaurant, Earlsfield

Photography: Colin Streater

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Now at ho m Clapham C o Introducing our second branch in Clapham. KFH Clapham Common 30 The Pavement London SW4 0JE

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o me in C ommon. Due to our growing success in the area, we have now opened a second branch in Clapham at 30 The Pavement. Along with our Abbeville Road branch, this new addition has strengthened our network to 15 branches in South West London and over 50 across the Capital. With our London wide reach and in depth local knowledge, we are best placed to help with all your property needs. So if you are thinking of buying, selling, renting or letting contact us today.

Leigh Munday Sales Manager Tel 020 3700 8555 Email scc@kfh.co.uk

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Sarah Burgess Lettings Manager Tel 020 3700 6300 Email lcc@kfh.co.uk

15:52 04/02/2014 09:11

Fieldhouse Road, Hydefarm Estate, SW12 Guide price £675,000 Leasehold Balham 020 8675 1123 Email sba@kfh.co.uk

A superb first floor, three bedroom maisonette with a garden. Situated in a quiet and popular road moments from Tooting Bec Common and a short walk from Streatham Hill train station.

• • • • • • • •

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Reception room Kitchen/dining room Three bedrooms Family bathroom Garden Moments from Tooting Bec Common Short walk to Streatham Hill train station EPC rating D

15:52 04/02/2014 14:54

03.1

St Ann’s Hill, Wandsworth, SW18 £635,000 A beautifully presented two bedroom, first floor maisonette offering 928 sq ft of accommodation and a private rear garden. The property is set in a superb location in Wandsworth close to Southside and Wandsworth Town. Shared freehold. EPC rating D. Earlsfield 020 8944 6464 Email sea@kfh.co.uk

Carlton Drive, Putney, SW15 £849,950 A stunning and contemporary two double bedroom, split level apartment offering 1,188 sq ft of accommodation, two bathrooms and a south facing balcony. This property is centrally located for Putney train station and East Putney underground station. Leasehold. EPC rating D. Putney Hill 020 8780 0033 Email sph@kfh.co.uk

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Branksome Road, Brixton, SW2 ÂŁ415,000 A beautifully presented and spacious one bedroom flat located on the first floor of a handsome period property in the popular Sudbourne area of Brixton. Leasehold. EPC rating B. Clapham 020 8675 5436 Email scs@kfh.co.uk

Avening Road, Southfields, SW18 ÂŁ850,000 This recently refurbished and fully extended family house is located between Southfields, Wandsworth, Earlsfield and Putney. The property comprises four bedrooms, two bathrooms (one en suite), through reception room, fully extended kitchen and rear garden. Freehold. No chain. EPC rating D. Southfields 020 8871 9655 Email ssf@kfh.co.uk

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Ravenslea Road, Balham, SW12 £3,034 pcm Unfurnished Balham 020 8675 3639 Email lbc@kfh.co.uk

A well presented four double bedroom house offering spacious accommodation throughout. This property is located within minutes of Balham station and moments from Wandsworth Common and Northcote Road.

• • • • • • •

Four double bedrooms Two bathrooms Two reception rooms Stunning modern kitchen Private garden Close to Balham station EPC rating D

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

09:15

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Elsynge Road, Battersea, SW18 £2,124 pcm Furnished Battersea 020 7028 8688 Email lbp@kfh.co.uk

Located on a quiet residential road this two double bedroom flat boasts a bright reception room with bay window and fireplace. Further benefitting from a private patio and communal gardens.

• • • • • • •

Bright and spacious reception Two double bedrooms Modern bathroom Private patio garden Large communal gardens Short walk to St John’s Hill and Clapham Junction EPC rating D

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

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ABSOLUTELY Property

Prime Purchase

A substantial five bedroom family house ‘between the commons’ on this desirable street moments from Clapham Common.

his impressive family house extends close to 2000 square feet, offering excellent bedroom and reception space. The house is situated along this attractive, quiet residential street in the area known as ‘between the commons’. The house briefly comprises; a large double reception room, a spacious kitchen extended into the side return, five double bedrooms and two bathrooms. The property enjoys a good sized west-facing garden to the rear.

Details

Culmstock Road, SW11 £1,550,000

Contact

Marsh & Parsons, Battersea 020 7228 9292; marshandparsons.co.uk

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Local know-how. Better results. Our ofďŹ ces:

Battersea

Chelsea

Fulham

Kensington

Mayfair

Pimlico & Westminster

Balham

Bishops Park

Clapham

Hammersmith

Little Venice

North Kensington

South Kensington

Barnes

Brook Green

Earls Court

Holland Park

Marylebone

Notting Hill

Clapham Manor Street SW4 ÂŁ1,395,000 This stunning four-bedroom Georgian town house offers in excess of 2,000 sqft of living space beautifully arranged over four floors, including a spacious double reception room with separate study/snug area at the rear and an impressive family/dining room with separate kitchen area leading out to the garden. The upper floors provide three well proportioned double bedrooms, a modern family bathroom, a master bedroom and a separate shower room. Freehold. EPC=E. Sole Agents. CLAPHAM: 020 7501 3666 sales.clp@marshandparsons.co.uk

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Join us on Facebook: facebook.com/marshandparsons

Visit our YouTube channel: youtube.com/user/marshandparsons

SALES

See all of our properties online: marshandparsons.co.uk

Mysore Road SW11 ÂŁ995,000 This unique Victorian house is steeped in charm and character benefitting from large windows, excellent floor to ceiling height, original floorboards, fireplaces and plasterwork. This pretty house is arranged over four floors offering versatile accommodation and the unusual feature of a turret into which the current owners have built a window seat to take full advantage of the views of Clapham Common. Freehold. EPC=F. Joint Sole Agent. BATTERSEA: 020 7228 9292 sales.bat@marshandparsons.co.uk

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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!)

Thornton Avenue SW2 ÂŁ970,000 This superb six-bedroom Telford Park house, arranged over three floors, offers generous living space full of natural light, stylish dĂŠcor and off-street parking. The property boasts two reception rooms, an eat-in kitchen, conservatory and large private garden. The upper floors boast a master bedroom, five further bedrooms and four bathrooms (three en suite). The property also benefits from off street parking. Freehold. EPC=E. Sole Agents. BALHAM: 020 8673 4377 sales.bal@marshandparsons.co.uk

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Join us on Facebook: facebook.com/marshandparsons

Visit our YouTube channel: youtube.com/user/marshandparsons

SALES

See all of our properties online: marshandparsons.co.uk

Alderbrook Road SW2 ÂŁ925,000 This delightful double fronted three-bedroom Victorian terraced house provides well presented and generous entertaining space. The house is situated on a quiet residential road in the Nightingale Triangle and comprises two reception rooms and an impressive extended kitchen/dining room with double height glass wall and sliding doors out to a private garden. The upper floors features a master bedroom, two additional double bedrooms and a family bathroom. Freehold. EPC=D. Sole Agents. BALHAM: 020 8673 4377 sales.bal@marshandparsons.co.uk

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Local know-how. Better results. Our ofďŹ ces:

Battersea

Chelsea

Fulham

Kensington

Mayfair

Pimlico & Westminster

Balham

Bishops Park

Clapham

Hammersmith

Little Venice

North Kensington

South Kensington

Barnes

Brook Green

Earls Court

Holland Park

Marylebone

Notting Hill

Clapham Common West Side SW4 ÂŁ1,400 per week This impressive five-bedroom family house has been recently refurbished throughout to offer a spacious double reception room, a large eat-in kitchen complete with AGA and a guest cloakroom on the ground floor. The lower ground floor boasts an additional reception room, while the upstairs benefits from a superb master suite, four well-proportioned double bedrooms with ample built-in storage and two contemporary bathrooms. EPC=D BATTERSEA: 020 7228 9292 lets.bat@marshandparsons.co.uk

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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

Streathbourne Road SW17 ÂŁ1,000 per week This immaculately presented six-bedroom Victorian house is generously proportioned throughout and includes a grand entrance hall and an atrium stairwell. The rear of the ground floor is extended to create a beautiful kitchen/ dining room with concertina doors leading out to a garden. The family room features an iron wood burner and a further separate reception room, which also retains many original features. EPC=E BALHAM: 020 8673 4377 lets.bal@marshandparsons.co.uk

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Property News Currell Culture Corner Battersea Arts Centre, Spring Programme The Battersea Arts Centre presents an eclectic season of cabaret, interactive theatre, beauty pageants and much more. ‘Ballad of the Burning Star’ is our top pick. Feb 17th - March 8th.

Victoria Farrar

Director of Currell, Battersea 020 3668 1000; currell.com

London House, Battersea Square Gordon Ramsay’s new restaurant is set to be one of the top dining spots south of the river. Opening in February.

THE BEST OF BELLEVUE VILLAGE Annual price increase: 10% Average house price: £668,069 (Zoopla) KFH in conjunction with Zoopla.co.uk has compiled a selection of London village guides and found that living in or near to a village in London can typically command a premium in the region of 51%. Each month we’ll feature one of those villages, and this month we’re focusing on Bellevue village.

This stunning newly built four double bedroom house, located close to the amenities of the popular Bellevue road and Wandsworth Common. A modern home with large open plan kitchen dining room, a second reception room, a master bedroom with en suite bathroom, a further three double bedrooms and a south east facing garden.

KFH Clapham: 020 8675 5436

020 7924 2000; douglasandgordon.com

Stewarts Law RCA Secret A chance to buy postcards by famous artists in the annual fundraiser for the Royal College of Art. The secret is that you won’t know who the art is by until after you’ve bought it! March 13th - March 22nd.

Trinity Road, Wandsworth, SW18 £1,950,000 Freehold

George Franks

Sales Director of Douglas & Gordon

Bordered by Battersea, Balham and Streatham, Bellevue village is a highly desirable area located directly overlooking the beautiful open spaces of Wandsworth Common. This exclusive village has a quiet, more relaxed pace of life and until the mid1800s this exclusive south west London patch was largely used for farming, but during the 1850s houses were built along Althorp and Nottingham Roads. The future of the area was cemented by the opening of Wandsworth Common train station in 1869 and since then the area has continued to grow in popularity. With a handful of independent boutiques, cafes, excellent restaurants and attractive Victorian terraces, buyers are attracted by the area’s great amenities and with trains into Victoria taking just 15 minutes, it is no surprise that everyone wants to live here.

Transport Links: � Wandsworth Common train station (Zone 3) � Bus routes: G1, 219 and 319 Main Schools: Belleville Primary School � Honeywell Junior School

�

Interesting Fact: Bellevue village is one of the few London villages to have a Michelin starred restaurant, Chez Bruce, co-owned by Bruce Poole. It earned its star in 1999 and was subsequently voted one of London’s favourite restaurants in 2006.

or a house market to be competitive, there must be more than a single buyer or a single seller. It has been suggested that two people may trade, but it takes at least three people to make a market, so that there is competition on at least one of its two sides. However, competitive markets rely on either much larger numbers of buyers or sellers. This all takes me back to when I was studying economics and we learned about extremes of imperfect competition! Imperfect competition is what we seem to have in the house market currently. The vendors certainly seem to have a type of monopoly, for what it’s worth, and buyers are in some cases having to fight each other through sealed bids to purchase the property that they want. Like any market, this does vary enormously in area or type of property, but it is fair to say the London house market is a very different animal to any other. I believe that towards the end of 2014, as the elections draw nearer, we are going to see the different political parties beginning to puff out their chests in relation to how they can influence the ‘housing crisis’ in London. There are a few ways they can do this mansion tax, building more property, tempering foreign investment; however I believe that some of these could have a significant effect. Purchasers will continue to buy property if they feel that they can afford to, or need to. Vendors will sell their homes if their life dictates it, and the price is right. Markets swing, and although we haven’t seen a huge amount of negativity in the house market, certainly in emerging central London, this does not mean to say that purchasers in the not too distant future will simply say “we are not paying that”. This will not cause a huge decline in prices; however, I think it will begin to slow up the vast increases in value that we have been seeing recently. So a word of warning to the posturing political parties, all markets have a way of levelling themselves out and too much interference just might change things too dramatically. Let’s leave normal market forces at work.

For more information visit www.kfh.co.uk/village-guides

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ABSOLUTELY Property

hether you’re buying or selling, the market is hot, and here in Battersea and Clapham it couldn’t be hotter. Nationwide reported a 15% annual rise in London house prices but the local areas are much more sensitive and we’ve seen peaks as high as 30% in sought-after areas. My top tip if you’re looking to move is make sure you’re ‘Market Ready’, the buyer competition in London is the most intense in the UK and Battersea and Clapham are up with some of the capital’s most popular boroughs. Becoming ‘Market Ready’ means getting everything in place and you need to start getting ready even before you look at a property. Make sure you are: • Ready. By being on the market - if you have a property to sell. • Willing. By instructing a solicitor to get you legally prepared.

Jeff Bathija

London Sales Area Manager, Andrews 020 7326 8171; andrewsonline.co.uk

Director of Rampton Baseley

020 7228 5111; ramptonbaseley.com

• Able. By arranging your finances so you know what you can afford. It may be simple, but it’s surprising how much being prepared will improve your chances of getting your dream home. Providing this proof to your agent will really help you get a step ahead of the competition and make you more appealing to the seller of your dream home. One final thing, good luck with your move and enjoy moving into your new home for spring.

Keating Estates unveil their new Brixton office ndependent estate agents Keating Estates are pleased to announce their new office opening in Brixton, opposite the famous Brixton Market. This new branch is their third, adding to the existing offices in Dulwich and Clapham. Although the shop front is new, Keating Estates have long been residents of the area. Nick Baer, Sales Director, has lived in Brixton for just under 10 years and has been involved in the sale of almost 1000 properties in the area. Dwayne Joynt, Lettings Manager, has lived in Brixton for nearly 8 years, and has excelled in the rental market here, both are thrilled to have officially expanded their presence in the area. As residents, they are keenly involved in the Brixton scene, supporting the local community and businesses. These include sponsoring local schools, including the popular Sudbourne Primary, the Lambeth Open 2013, as well as the Upstairs Restaurant, where Keating Estates are offering dinner with wine for two, or a bottle of champagne and a top wine at Opus

Patrick Rampton

for every property valuation booked. Not only this, they are also keenly involved in the arts. They have commissioned local artist Lucie Conoley, who they met at the local art fair Urban Art 2013, to draw the map on their office wall. Lucie describes her work as ‘bespoke maps that detail the life of a person in their area, showing all the places that are special and represent significant moments.’ She goes on to talk about Keating Estates’ commitment to the area: ‘Nick and Shane have been absolutely amazing to work with. They put complete faith in what I do, I love how much attention they pay to the details, and how important it is to them to utilise and promote local talent. Keating Estates has really tapped into the overwhelming sense of community here. This has, without doubt, been the most satisfying and personally rewarding job I’ve done to date. And I loved every minute of it!’

’ve been doing some sales figures analysis recently – you know, year on year sort of stuff. The results are interesting. A five bed 2000+ sq ft house we put on a year ago had an asking price of £1.35m – and a very nice house it was too. We had lots of initial interest and the sale of said property was being agreed around asking, when the vendor’s onward chain fell apart. School matters interceded, and the house was subsequently withdrawn. Now we all know that this part of London has seen dramatic price surges in the past 12 months. And so bearing this in mind, we put it back on the market well over £1.6m in Jan. It was agreed at asking the first Saturday - a dramatic 23% uplift in value, and it’s not even Honeywell/ Belleville catchment. What does this mean? Jolly good news for those who own such things, less good for those trying to buy them. However, combining this with the recent drop in unemployment figs (and their potential link to interest rate rises), the dreaded words overheated and unsustainable spring to mind. I’m not sure, only time will tell I guess; and I’m an estate agent, not a financial analyst...

Mark Howell

Director of Aspire 020 7801 3400; aspire.co.uk

e entered the back of 2013 with little stock and insatiable demand amongst buyers in Battersea. The Christmas period can often bring a sea change or brief lull in activity, but we witnessed little difference with a constant stream of enquiries resulting in the most positive December we have ever had in this office. Average price rises in London were about 20% in 2013 - with Battersea at the top end of this figure thanks in part to the regeneration work in the area. The big challenge in the first few months of 2014 is having enough supply to meet demand – so the housing market predictions currently look very buoyant and prices are predicted to increase 8-10% in Battersea over the course of the year. We anticipate further increases - with a traditional peak in March and April - and so our advice to buyers is to start looking now before prices escalate further.

keatingestates.com

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05/02/2014 11:42

Properties To Buy and Let Don’t see what you are looking for?

Call us 24/7 on 020 3031 3984

£1,395,000 SW4

£1,495,000 SW12

A stunning 4 bedroom property of over 2000 sq.ft. Presented in a modern and high spec condition, must be viewed. . • 4 Bedrooms • 3 Bathrooms • Private Garden

• Off-Street Parking • Study Room • EPC: D

£1600p/w SW11

A jaw dropping 4 bedroom house refurbished to the highest standard and ready to move in. . • 4 Bedrooms • Walk-In Wardrobe • Cloakroom

£550 p/w

• Off-Street Parking • Utility Room • EPC: D

SW12

A superb 3 bedroom apartment in one of the most . prestigious developments in Battersea, truly exceptional.

An immaculate 2 bedroom flat located in a decadent street within a short walking distance. of Balham Tube station.

• 3 Double Bedrooms • 3 Bathrooms • Private Balcony

• 2 Bedrooms • 2 Bathrooms • Close to High Street

• River Views • Open Plan Kitchen • EPC: D

• Garden • Furnished • EPC: E

Morgan Randall, London’s favourite estate agent

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London’s favourite estate agent

Prices Up by 15.4% figures released by The Halifax

Your property may have risen by over £1000 per week since this time last year, do you really know how much your property is worth today?

Call us now 020 3031 3984 2011 2012 2013

0% 2.2% 15.4%

Greater London House Price Movement Our valuers have seen reactions of surprise and astonishment when informing owners just how much their home is actually worth in today’s market.

Whether you are thinking of selling or just curious, give your local estate agent Morgan Randall a call now and book in a free no-obligation valuation. Don¹t guess, know where you stand either way.

Balham Office 112-114a Balham High Road Balham London SW12 9AA

T: 020 3031 3984 (24 Hours) E: balham@morganrandall.com 9am to 7pm Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm Saturdays

Tube: Balham (0.2 miles) Train: Balham (0.2 miles) Bus: 155, 249, 355 Morgan Randall, London’s favourite estate agent

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ABSOLUTELY Property

Spotlight on Northcote Road Katherine Moore Senior Sales Negotiator at Douglas & Gordon, Battersea

Shelgate Road, SW11 This stunning two bedroom flat is beautifully presented throughout, has the benefit of a fabulous west-facing roof terrace and is wider than the average flat in this area. Located on the first floor of this impressive end of terrace Victorian property on this peaceful no-through road. Reception room A perfect entertaining space with an open-plan kitchen, surround sound and contemporary remote control fire. Terrace A very private, west-facing roof terrace overlooking the Battersea Rise cemetery. Bedroom Really good size double bedrooms with builtin wardrobes, and the additional study is a something you don’t find in many flats “Between the Commons”.

£750,000

Share of Freehold 020 7924 2000; douglasandgordon.com

Public Knowledge

Tamzin Incledon Associate Director, Douglas & Gordon, Battersea 020 7924 2000; douglasandgordon.com

RAINY DAY

SPORTS AND REC

FUN FOR FREE

BEST SCHOOL

A long lunch at Numero Uno for good food and a bottle of wine. If the children are in tow, Sammy Duder pottery studio on Webbs Road.

Definitely hot yoga at Bikram Yoga in Clapham Junction, or just hire one of the new Boris bikes and go for a ride around the area.

For children, the play area on the Clapham Common is great. Window shopping on Northcote Road could be very fun for some too!

It’s got to be Honeywell and Belleville Primary Schools. Both are rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted and are highlyrespected.

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Balmuir Gardens, SW15

£4,500 PCM

Farlow Road, SW15

£2,800 PCM

• Elegant Period House • Double Reception Room • Extended Kitchen/Dining Room • Master Bedroom With En-Suite • Four Further Bedrooms • Bathroom • Shower Room • Guest W.C. • Cellar • West Facing Garden • Prime Location

• Mid Terraced House • Through Reception Room • Kitchen/Dining Room • Lovely Modern Garden • Three Double Bedrooms • Study • Two Bathrooms • Convenient Location

Pembridge Place, SW15

Westhorpe Road, SW15

£2,650 PCM

• Terraced House • Reception Room • Kitchen/Dining Room • Three Bedrooms • Study/Bedroom 4 • En-Suite Shower Room • Family Bathroom • Private Garden • Off-Street Parking

£1,475 PCM

• Period Conversion • One Bedroom • Garden Flat • Eat In Kitchen • Reception Room • Shower Room • Well Proportioned Double Bedroom Overlooking The Garden • Beautifully Presented Throughout

194 Upper Richmond Road SW15 2SH / 139 Lower Richmond Road SW15 1EZ Tel: 020 8780 1100 / sales@warrenputney.co.uk / warrenputney.co.uk WARREN.indd 2

05/02/2014 16:18

A substantial and very well presented six bedroom family home offering 3995Sq Ft of accommodation on this popular Upper West Putney residential road. The house sits well back from the road and occupies an unusually wide plot.

Rossdale Road, SW15 £1,999,950

• Reception Room • Dining Room • Kitchen/ Breakfast Room • Family Room • Study • Epc Rating D • Master Bedroom With En-suite • Double Bedroom With En-suite • Four Further Double Bedrooms • Garage With Osp • Mature 73Ft x 126Ft South Facing Garden

A substantial and well maintained six double bedroom semi-detached Edwardian family house with a beautifully presented 77Ft east facing garden on an exceptionally quiet and popular West Putney residential road of only 14 houses.

Chartfield Avenue, SW15 £3,600,000

• Edwardian Freehold House • Semi-Detached • Six Double Bedrooms • 77Ft East Facing Garden (Open To The South) • Kitchen • Double Reception • Further Rear Reception Room • Bathroom • W.C. • Cellar • Loft Storage • Period Features • Epc Rating E

194 Upper Richmond Road SW15 2SH / 139 Lower Richmond Road SW15 1EZ WARREN.indd 3

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T: 020 8780 1100

Egliston Road, SW15

warrenputney.co.uk

£3,500,000 Bangalore Street, SW15

• Detached Victorian Freehold House • Large West Facing Garden • Three Reception Rooms • 26Ft Kitchen Breakfast Room • Guest W.C. • Master Bedroom With Large En-Suite Bathroom • Six Further Bedrooms • Modern Family Bathroom • Two Further Modern Shower Rooms • Off Street Parking • Study • Garden Storage • Epc Rating D

Grosvenor Court, SW15

£1,795,000

• End Of Terrace • 2686Sq Ft • Private Rear Garden With Side Access • Epc Rating F • Three Receptions • Downstairs W.C. • Dining Room • Kitchen Breakfast Room • Master Bedroom With En-Suite • Four Further Double Bedroom, • Two En-Suites • Family Bathroom

£285,000 Felsham Road, SW15

£385,000

• Share Of Freehold • Studio Room With Separate Kitchen • • One Bedroom Split-Level Maisonette • 73 Years Remaining Bathroom • Epc Rating E • West Facing Balcon • Private Garage Lease Term • Private Front Door • Superbly Located • Kitchen • And Parking Space • Close To Putney Stations Modern Bathroom With Shower Over Bath • Double Bedroom With Fitted Wardrobes • Short Walk To Mainline Station • Opportunity To Rent Allocated Parking Space (£85Pcm) • Epc Rating C

Tel: 020 8780 1100 / sales@warrenputney.co.uk / warrenputney.co.uk WARREN.indd 4

05/02/2014 16:19

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04/02/2014 09:59

Clapham BrixtonDulwich

www.keatingestates.com

SALES

Nelsons Row, Clapham SW4

Asking Price £499,950

• Located off Clapham High Street • Beautifully presented with original features throughout • One double bedroom and converted loft space with bathroom. • Open plan living space. Clapham Office: 020 7720 2113  clapham@keatingestates.com

SALES

Park Lofts, Lyham Road , SW2

Asking Price £865,000

• 1744 sq ft, loft-style apartment in a sought after school conversion. • Boasting floor to ceiling windows, solid wood and slate floors as well as under floor heating. • Off-street parking. • Short walk from the vibrant shops, nightlife and culinary marvels of Brixton and Clapham. Brixton Office: 020 7095 5777  brixton@keatingestates.com

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ABSOLUTELY Property

Wonderful Wimbledon Sean Purtill

Managing Director at Ellisons 020 8944 9494; ellisons.uk.com

he housing market is improving with 107,380 property transactions in November 2013, the highest amount since December 2007. Prices in London and the suburbs saw dramatic rises in 2013 with demand outstripping supply in many areas. 2014 will see a continued strong demand from buyers with low interest rates and an easing of mortgage restrictions. We do not expect to see such dramatic price increases throughout the year as in 2013, but feel that 8% over the year is in accord with many other property indexes. The early part of 2014 should see more people deciding that the time is right to move and there is definitely a higher feeling of confidence in the economy.

Marryat Road, SW19 A fantastic opportunity to acquire a detached family house in one of Wimbledon Village’s most sought-after locations. Available for the first time in a generation, the property has been well maintained, but would benefit from being extended and updated for contemporary living. The property also benefits from a particularly attractive mature rear garden and enjoys views from its elevated position.

£2,600,000 Freehold

Contact

andrew scott robinson 020 8971 6780; as-r.co.uk

Paul Lintott

Manager of John D Wood & Co., Wimbledon 020 3151 5934; johndwood.co.uk

013 was a record year for John D Wood & Co. and we are glad to report that 2014 has started very positively indeed in Wimbledon and Coombe. We have already significantly expanded our database of active buyers and despite receiving instructions on some very desirable properties, demand is still outstripping supply for quality property in good locations. Quoting a realistic guide price remains a key approach in generating maximum buyer interest and establish the market value of all properties which is where a good agent really makes a difference.

Wimbledon, SW20 A substantial detached five bedroom, five bathroom house laid out over four floors. Hollymount House was converted by the present owners in 2002 and has been described by Merton Council as an important and locally listed building of ‘Townscape Merit’. The house has a wealth of character, from hand carved wooden staircase features and cornicing, to panelled oak and mahogany rooms. There is also an orangery linked to the kitchen and French antique lighting was specially sourced and used throughout the property.

£3,250,000 Freehold

Contact

Hamptons International, Wimbledon 020 8261 7192; hamptons.co.uk

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lauristons

MARCH 2014

ABSOLUTELY PROMOTION

WARRIORS Triumph Again !

LAURISTONS

OPEN MERTON PARK OFFICE

Spring Clean! ECO FRIENDLY HANDY HINTS

BALHAM BLAZERS RECOGNISED AT LOCAL AWARDS 2

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ABSOLUTELY PROMOTION

LAURISTONS STRENGTHENS MARKET POSITION BY ACQUIRING WOOLLENS OF WIMBLEDON

auristons, recently completed the acquisition of Wimbledon based estate agency ‘Woollens of Wimbledon’. Woollens of Wimbledon’s twenty three year heritage and local knowledge complements Lauristons established service offering in Residential Sales, Lettings, Property and Block Management across South West London. The acquisition also reinforces Lauristons commitment to invest in firms who share

the same values. Matthew Payne, Lettings Director, Lauristons said: “This is a fantastic opportunity and can only enhance the Lauristons brand. By continuing our drive to quickly grow the business, we are able to further develop our position in our local market places.” Under the terms of the acquisition, Lauristons will take full ownership of Woollens of Wimbledon and all their staff will be based in Lauristons new Merton Park office.

MARKET UPDATE NIGEL BUDD SALES DIRECTOR

e are pleased to report that all of our offices have enjoyed an extremely busy start in 2014 with substantial numbers of highly motivated buyers registering and many properties selling at record high prices. Open House multiple viewings to launch new instructions continue to be a huge success with many properties selling for levels which are far in excess of the asking price. This suggests that the New year’s resolution for many is to make 2014 their year to move. Consistent with 2013 property prices in January have continued

HINTS

TIPS LAURISTONS_EDITORIALSTYLE.indd 122

to rise at a fast pace, largely driven by a substantial imbalance between the volume of buyers registering versus the low level of stock coming available in the market place. Our sense of feeling is that the Spring months will show an increase in the volume of property coming to market and that property prices will continue to grow at a steady pace throughout the course of the year. If you are considering moving home either now or in the near future we would be delighted to have the opportunity to discuss your specific requirements.

SPORTS NEWS OFF THE PITCH, we are delighted to announce that Balham Blazers FC has received four nominations at the forthcoming Active Wandsworth Awards. BBFC has been nominated as; • Sports Club of the Year. • General Manager, Greg Cruttwell, has been nominated for Outstanding Contribution to Sport/Physical Activity • BBFC Committee Members, Rachel Arbuckle and Louise Eyeington, have been nominated for Voluntary Services to Sport and Physical Activity Awards.

On the Pitch, ten games into the season the Lauristons U10 Colts have maintained their position at 4th on the table, but due to cancelled fixtures with all the bad weather, have games in hand on many teams. The Lauristons U8 Colts have likewise been victims of the rain in recent weeks and are itching to get back to some routine fixtures. Watch this space as we head into a hopefully dry spring.

The awards night is on Thursday February 13th. Next month we will report on who won.

LAURISTONS LOVE……AN ECO-FRIENDLY METHOD OF CLEANING GROUT AND TILES Always test first on a hidden area of tiles to check that the solution does not cause any damage. • Wash grout and tiles down with warm water before applying the cleaner. This is so that any loose debris is washed away. • Whilst the tiles are drying, make the cleaner by mixing 1/3 salt, 1/3

vinegar and 1/3 baking soda. • Once the tiles have dried, mix the cleaner then scrub into the grout with an old toothbrush or cleaning sponge. • Depending on how stained the

grout is, leave for at least 15 minutes. • Using the old toothbrush or sponge, scrub the stained grout again before rinsing away with warm water

05/02/2014 16:09

1994 – 2014 Celebrating 20 years of ﬁnding homes

COMMUNITY NOTES

London on the 16th March, the day before St Patricks Day.

Why not sign up to attend the Interactive shadow puppetry and poetry show at the Polka Theatre.

20 THINGS TO DO THIS MARCH IN SW LONDON

 

Enjoy an evening of sharp and inventive wit with Alan Davies at LOST Theatre, SW8



Looking to woo a partner after Valentines Day? Why not enrol on the Argentine Tango workshop at The Bedford, Balham.

Shrove Tuesday is on the 4th March. 



Marvel at the performances of some of London’s most talented young beatboxers, vocalists and MCs at the Battersea Arts Centre.

Enjoy a night of Jazz at the Half Moon Pub in Putney.



Leg warmers on, headband at the ready. Fame – The Musical is coming to the New Wimbledon Theatre.



Embarking on their UK tour, The National Theatre’s awardwinning comedy One Man, Two Guvnors comes to the New Wimbledon theatre for one week only.



Calling all small business owners! Learn the basics of SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) with London Mums Magazine founder Monica Costa on her one day course.

Keep an eye out for St Patrick’s day celebrations including the parade taking place in central

 

Frying pans at the ready -

Treat your mum this Mother’s Day to afternoon tea at Cannizaro House, Wimbledon on Sunday the 30th March.

Looking for an alternative to the high street? Head to the Vintage Fair at the Half Moon, Putney for clothing, handbags, jewellery, textiles and home furnishings.

Bingo with a difference! Spend an evening playing musical Bingo with Jess Indeedy at the Balham Bowls Club.

A must see exhibition– Tennis on the Riviera at the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum (on until April 2014).

Searching for something to entertain the little ones?

Spend a lazy Saturday morning visiting the successful Artisan farmers market at Chestnut Grove School in Balham.

 



If you have recently entered your ﬁrst Triathlon or are a more experienced Triathlete, there’s only one place to be on Saturday 1st March and that’s the Triathlon Show at Sandown Park.

Get ﬁt and ready for Sports Relief by heading out to one of South West London’s green open spaces for a walk or run.



If you didn’t have time last month, make time to visit the fantastic Orchid exhibition at the Royal Botanical Gardens at Kew.



Hurrah! British Summer time starts Sunday 30th March.

A Book Club with a difference. Why not join the friendly bunch at O’Neils, Wimbledon who like to focus on a wide range of classic and contemporary ﬁction.



SPORTS NEWS

DYLAN MAAS JUNIOR SPORTS REPORTER U13A CAPTAIN, WIMBLEDON WARRIORS

ince my last report we played two scheduled games, both a success. Our first was against Old Emanuel Lions...this game was a friendly which we won with ease. It was a real team effort and a good practice run for our league game against Dorking.

ng with probably We arrived on the Sunday morni in. The pitch was the worst weather I have ever played , cold like i can’t muddy but playable and it was cold a big strong side. But describe. Game Time... they were htens us we are the we are a fearless team, nothing frig first half but with warriors! It was a very hard fought the opening try,. gritted chattering teeth we scored weather get ting going into the second half with the k fighting, it worse we knew they would come bac we stood firm and was tough really tough but again red the win with a through sheer determination we secu e 10- 0. I’m so lucky to second try and finished the gam brothers. play with a team who are like my

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05/02/2014 16:09

ABSOLUTELY PROMOTION

PROPERTY ROUNDUP This months property highlights Riverside West, SW18

n attractive two double bedroom modern apartment presented in good decorative order situated within a prestigious Riverside development and benefiting from a sizable private terrace. Boasting two bathrooms, the apartment is offered to the market with no onward chain and with a long leasehold interest. The development is served by a 24 hour concierge and has a Virgin Active heath club on-site which is used by many local residents. EPC EER C

£499,950 Leasehold Putney Sales 020 8780 8780

Bedford Hill, SW12

Auckland Road, SW11

£535,000 Share of Freehold

£850,000 Leasehold

xtremely spacious two double bedroom top floor flat which forms part of an attractive Victorian detached residence on Bedford Hill. Ideally situated within 0.2 of a mile from Balham town centre, mainline station and Northern line tube. The accommodation comprises an open plan fitted kitchen, separate dining area, good sized rear aspect reception room, modern white bathroom suite and two double bedrooms. The property will be offered to the market with a share of the freehold and no forward chain. EPC EER E

Balham Sales 020 8772 9373

LAURISTONS_FEB_PROPERTY.indd 124

n immaculately presented two double bedroom split-level maisonette just moments away from the Northcote Road. This stunning property consists of a light & spacious double reception room, a fully fitted kitchen leading out on to a thirty two foot private patio garden, a large family bathroom, a master bedroom with en-suite & a further double bedroom with built in storage. The property is located just 0.4 of a mile from Clapham Junction Station & 0.9 of a mile from Wandsworth Town Station. EPC EER D

Battersea Sales 020 7978 5800

05/02/2014 16:06

1994 – 2014 Celebrating 20 years of ﬁnding homes Surrey Lane, SW11

obalt Place, a new development by internationally renowned developer Lend Lease. These 104 stunning new properties are built to the highest sustainability standards, with high quality specification including contemporary kitchens with handless doors, double-glazed windows, underfloor heating and fresh air ventilation to each apartment. Many of the apartments feature either balconies

Upper Richmond Road, SW15

or patio gardens to the ground floor and private parking available at an additional cost. Completion estimated for Spring/Summer 2015.

From £420,000 to £530,000 New Homes 0870 600 3690

St Mary’s Road, SW19

fantastic two double bedroom apartment presented in excellent decorative order situated in this popular converted police station in Central Putney. Comprising a spacious openplan kitchen / reception room, master bedroom with fitted wardrobes and en suite with separate shower and bath, further double bedroom, family bathroom with shower over bath. EPC EER: TBC

ocated along a quiet residential road within the wonderful Heritage Trail, this grand two bedroom flat is set within a charming period building formerly the Vicarage of St Mary’s Church offering exceptional presentation, naturally light and spacious accommodation. EPC EER E

£2,050 Per Calendar Month

£2,500 Per Calendar Month

Putney Lettings 020 8780 8780

Wimbledon Lettings 020 8405 5340

Balham High Road, SW17

beautifully presented two double bedroom apartment to rent, conveniently located in between both Tooting Bec and Balham tube stations. The property comprises a large reception with wood floors and space for dining, two double bedrooms, modern kitchen and bathroom. Available now. EPC EER D

£1,600 Per Calendar Month Balham Lettings 020 8772 9373

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05/02/2014 16:06

sullivanthomas.co.uk | carterjonas.co.uk

ELMBOURNE ROAD SW17

£300pw/£1,300pcm*

A bright first floor flat in the Heaver Estate conservation area.

• Reception room

• Bathroom

• Kitchen

• Unfurnished

• Double bedroom

• Energy efficiency: Band C

• Reception room

• Balcony

• Kitchen

• Garden

• 2 bedrooms, 1 en suite

• Energy efficiency: Band D

Wandsworth Lettings: 020 8682 3121

GAUDEN ROAD SW4

£445pw/£1,928pcm*

A large beautifully presented raised ground floor flat.

Wandsworth Lettings: 020 8682 3121 *Rent excludes administration fees. For further information please contact your local office.

• Bathroom

Full online details including the EPC are available by scanning this code using any QR code scanner

*Rent excludes administration fees. For further information please contact your local office.

Part of a network of 9 offices in London and a further 20 across the country

SULLIVAN THOMAS.indd 1

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DAULT ROAD SW18

£1,250,000 F/H

This superb family house is in fantastic location and offers spacious and light accommodation in a beautifully classic yet modern homely environment.

• Double reception room

• Cellar

• Kitchen/family room

• South-facing garden

• 4 bedrooms

• Energy efﬁciency: Band D

• 2 bathrooms

HENDHAM ROAD SW17

£1,700,000 F/H

A beautiful Victorian family house in a great location within reach of Wandsworth Common and the Northern Line.

• 2 reception rooms

• Cellar

• Kitchen/breakfast room

• South-facing garden

• 5 double bedrooms

• Off street parking

• 3 bathrooms

• Energy efﬁciency: Band D

Wandsworth Sales: 020 8767 7711

Full online details including the EPC are available by scanning this code using any QR code scanner

Wandsworth Sales: 020 8767 7711

sullivanthomas.co.uk | carterjonas.co.uk

SULLIVAN THOMAS.indd 2

05/02/2014 10:23

MOVING in Nothing’s better than the inside scoop. Local agents give their recommendations... INTERIOR INSPIRATION

TIME OUT

KIDS

‘Aflair for home’ on St John’s Road has some fantastic quality furnishings including sofas, lighting and accessories; perfect to kit out your home with.

At either end of Bellevue Road there are two salons, Tranquility for beauty and massage and Michelle Louise for hair, beauty and massage.

The Bee’s Knees at the Battersea Arts Centre is an indoor garden playground. They have buit a grass hill and a bridge for the children to enjoy even when the sun disappears!

Charles Streatfeild Marsh & Parsons,

Fiona Bourke Sullivan Thomas,

Victoria Farrar Currell,

Battersea

Wandsworth Common

Battersea

020 7228 9292; marshandparsons.co.uk

020 8682 3121; sullivanthomas.co.uk

020 3668 1000; currell.com

LOCAL STREET

HANG OUT

FACT

I’m always partial to the Embankment area of Putney. When the sun is shining, the bars are full and the river’s edge is heavy with runners and walkers it has an overall fun feeling to it.

On Nightingale Lane there is a listed, three storey ‘spite’ wall. Apparently, there were two neighbours who despised each so much that one built the wall to block the other out!

Southside, overlooking The Green and Rushmere Pond, must be one of the most idyllic Village locations for those who appreciate a beautiful outlook.

Paul Lintott John D Wood & Co., Wimbledon

020 3151 5934; johndwood.co.uk

Nicole

Chamberland Chamberland Residential

020 8704 1313; chamberlandres.co.uk

Angus Irens Rymer Irens, Bellevue Road

020 8767 2222; rymer-irens.com

128 Moving_In_Batt_Mar.indd 128

05/02/2014 11:52

CGI representation of The Schoolyard

The Old York Road

The Thames Path

Northcote Road

Stunning new 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments with balconies in the heart of vibrant SW18 SECOND PHASE NOW SELLING To register your interest and book a viewing at our marketing suite call 0844 406 9288 or visit

www.theschoolyardsw18.com L&Q HOUSING.indd 2 7327_Advert_Absolute_B&C_297x210_Jan14.indd 1

BLIPP The Schoolyard marble with logo to find out more. Downloadoster p Blippar app free

rt adve

et pack

03/02/2014 16/01/2014 15:39 12:01

Sacrifice never tasted sweeter.

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27/01/2014 11:35

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FSL2223 Featherstone Leigh BATTERSEA ABSO DPS qxd v2:Layout 1 04/02/2014 19:20 Page 1

FSL2

featherstoneleigh.co.uk

Elspeth Road, Battersea

£875 pw Well presented five double bedroom family home conveniently located a short walk from the green open space of Clapham Common. Available from mid February. EPC = E.

t: 020 7228 2378

Nansen Road, Battersea

£825 pw Well presented four bedroom family home situated in a popular location close to transport links of Clapham Junction and Clapham Common. Available end February.

t: 020 7228 2378

TENANT FEES: • £48.00 (including VAT) per person for referencing

• £195.00 (including VAT) per property for the tenancy agreement

Battersea

West Kensington

Barnes

Sheen

Kingston

Clapham

Fulham

Richmond

Twickenham

Chiswick

Putney

Chelsea

Kew

Teddington

Hammersmith

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Beauchamp Road, Battersea

£775,000 Stunning three double bedroom, two bathroom apartment presented in excellent condition, just minutes from the Northcote Road and Clapham Junction station. EPC = D.

t: 020 7228 2278

Barnard Mews, Battersea

£750,000 A stunning two bedroom mews house comprising an open plan kitchen/reception room, two good size double bedrooms, two bathrooms and an allocated parking space. EPC Rating = E.

t: 020 7228 2278

It’s our area... FEATHERSTONE LEIGH.indd 2

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Offices throughout London

Lydon Road, SW4

£449,950

Kingswood Road, SW2

£500,000

A great opportunity to acquire this well located, top floor one bedroom apartment. The Victorian property is situated in the heart of Clapham Old Town and boasts a large loft space providing scope to convert (STPP). No onward chain. EPC =D.

A fantastic opportunity to acquire this two bedroom, ground floor garden flat, located on a popular road between Clapham and Brixton. The property boasts a good sized private garden and the added bonus of the freehold to the building. Book your viewing today to avoid disappointment! EPC= D.

Clapham Office 020 7627 8084 clapham@bushells.com

R DE R E UN FF O

Battersea Park Road, SW11

£350,000

Saltoun Road, SW2

£475,000

Situated in the heart of Battersea is this fantastic two bedroom first floor flat, ideally located for the buzz of the local night life and the open space of Battersea Park. The property is also a short walk from Clapham Junction station. EPC= D.

A two double bedroom Victorian conversion, situated in the very Heart of Brixton. This property is a must see for the viewing list, boasting well-proportioned accommodation and a great location! This would make an ideal first purchase or investment opportunity. EPC =C.

Clapham Office 020 7627 8084 clapham@bushells.com

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

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bushells.com

Warncliffe Mews, SW4

£399,950

A beautifully presented one bedroom ground floor garden flat, situated within this impressive private modern block in the heart of Clapham, and close to the shops, bars and restaurants of Abbeville Village and Clapham Common. EPC= C.

Clapham Office 020 7627 8084 clapham@bushells.com PART OF THE EDMUND CUDE GROUP

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

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ABSOLUTELY Property

Showcase

A spectacularly extended, comprehensively refurbished and fully modernised landmark Victorian detached doublefronted family house with a large west facing garden, garage and ample off street parking.

his imposing home boasts striking, bespoke, contemporary interior design beautifully balanced with original details and expansive proportions. The property is characterised by the high ceilings and generous landings typical of grand late nineteenth century family houses. But this house now also enjoys the luxury, convenience and efficiency of modern day renovation: LED lighting, under floor and zonal heating, utility room, water softening, highly efficient hot water system, and of particular environmental note: a clean burning ethanol fuelled fire, a sedum green roof insulation and 16v charge point for an electric car.

Details Gwendolen Avenue, SW15 ÂŁ5,000,000

The magnificent rear extension creates a stunning kitchen/family/dining room with custom-built frameless 4 panel sliding doors (21mm profile and 32 Sq Mt of energy efficient glass) sliding back and opening onto a 11m wide terrace and large private lawned garden beyond. The wood kitchen is handmade and designed by Andy Stone, with Italian grey lacquered ash units and solid ash drawers and incorporates a comprehensive range of high quality integrated appliances. The sumptuousness of contemporary design continues upstairs with a superb master bedroom suite which includes a dressing room and luxurious en-suite bathroom featuring a CP Hart Jacuzzi bath and enormous separate walk-in shower.

Contact Warren 020 8780 1100; warrenputney.co.uk

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OFFICES THROUGHOUT SOUTH WEST LONDON balham

battersea 020 7801 3400

clapham north 020 7840 3700

clapham south

020 8673 6111

fulham central

fulham south 020 7736 6110

furzedown

tooting

020 7381 7381

020 8769 7900

020 8675 1222 020 8772 7080

Kingswood Road, SW2

£925,000

This spacious four bedroom property offers excellent living accommodation over three floors. On the ground floor there is a double reception room with feature fireplaces and a large kitchen breakfast room with double doors leading on to the garden. The upper floors comprise four double bedrooms a large family bathroom and an ensuite shower room. The property has recently been refurbished and is well presented • Four double bedrooms • Eat in kitchen • Double reception room • Large garden

aspire clapham south 020 8675 1222 clapham@aspire.co.uk

SOUTH WEST LONDON’S LEADING ESTATE AGENT

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OFFICES THROUGHOUT SOUTH WEST LONDON clapham south

balham

battersea

clapham north

020 8673 6111

020 7801 3400

020 7840 3700

020 8675 1222

fulham central

fulham south 020 7736 6110

furzedown

tooting

020 7381 7381

020 8769 7900

020 8772 7080

York Mansions, Prince of Wales Drive, SW11

£1,650,000

Situated on the top floor (with lift) and stunning views over Battersea Park from the double reception room, this is an extremely desirable and well proportioned three bedroom apartment. The property has a lease of 39 years remaining so would need to be purchased by a Cash Buyer only. • Three double bedrooms • Spacious double reception with park views • Excellent transport links • Moments from the park, offering a variety of leisure & sporting activities

aspire battersea 020 7801 3400 battersea@aspire.co.uk

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Culverden Road, SW12

£999,9500

Located on this popular tree lined road in Balham, this delightful 1930’s bay fronted house is within a short and very pleasant walk from the High Road and enjoys the most lovely large garden backing directly on to Tooting Bec Common. • Tree lined road • Large garden backing onto Common • Luxury Kitchen and Bathroom • Wet room En-Suite • Arranged over three ﬂoors

aspire balham 020 8673 6111 balham@aspire.co.uk

SOUTH WEST LONDON’S LEADING ESTATE AGENT

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OFFICES THROUGHOUT SOUTH WEST LONDON balham 020 8673 6111

battersea 020 7801 3400

clapham north 020 7840 3700

clapham south 020 8675 1222

fulham central

fulham south 020 7736 6110

furzedown

tooting

020 7381 7381

020 8769 7900

Henderson Road, SW18

020 8772 7080

£2,600,000

Memory Lane

Mark Howell of aspire’s Battersea office talks to a vendor about years of happy memories with neighbours and an Edwardian home filled with original features. How long have you lived in the property? Nearly 30 years, but my work took me abroad so there was much coming and going over those years. What do you like most about living in Wandsworth? Everything; the Common, the shops, the County Arms, Bellevue Rd and the tennis courts, but above all the speedy transport into Central London from Wandsworth Common Station. It’s a splendid place to live

and our little enclave of streets, known as the ‘Toastrack’, has a strong sense of community. No problem about getting to know the neighbours here; we’ve had street parties and in 2012 a big Jubilee get-together on the Common. Where did you draw inspiration from for the design/interior of the property? These are classic and beautiful Edwardian houses of superb proportions and we cherished the original features in the house. There

are lovely ﬁreplaces with surrounding tiles, plasterwork and cornices, and lots of small design features that were put there 100 years ago. They anchor the house in history. Did you install any special features in the property? No, but any visitor would see a distinct leaning towards the Edwardian. Maybe age comes into it - we like polished corner cabinets, glass fronted bookcases and comfy furnishings. It feels more like home to us than any minimalist

.co.uk

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style could. Are there any further changes or developments you would have made had you stayed in the property? No, we like it just as it is and the last thing we wanted was more space even with five grandchildren roaming around on occasion. What was your favourite room in the house? I worked a lot from home so had an office at the top of the house. It was open-plan and covered the whole of the top floor with a gallery above it. Books, papers, historical records, boxes of photos, etc were stuffed everywhere alongside computers and all the

modern kit. Paradise. What will you miss the most when you move? Our street community and all our friends in the Toastrack. Maybe they’ll invite us to the next Big Lunch street party? What’s your favourite memory at your house? So many over the years but above all, people. We have fond memories of all the different generations of neighbours and the lovely times we had together at Christmas, at street parties and just passing the time of day on the way to the shops.

aspire battersea 020 7801 3400 battersea@aspire.co.uk

SOUTH WEST LONDON’S LEADING ESTATE AGENT

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.co.uk

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www.pedderproperty.com

Navigate further afield with the SE London experts Maybe you want more for your money. Perhaps you want an area blessed with green spaces and good schools, perfect for a young family. Or you’re looking for that “village” feel, with local shops, bars and parks. With over 30 years experience in South East London, who better than Pedder to help you navigate this up-and-coming area? And who better to help you discover your new home? Because no-one knows South East London like Pedder.

A passion for property Pedder. SE London’s premier agent

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silver

The best buyers hunt in packs Welcome them to your door with an Open View With 58% more buyers1 than last year, the competition is fierce. Our Open Views gather buyers together to visit your property all at once, each primed and eager to move. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the perfect way to get the best price for your home. ANDREWS.indd 2 Absolutely 426x303 Ad St2.indd 1

04/02/2014 10:19

Book your free valuation2 today Sales Balham 020 8675 2244 Battersea 020 7326 8171

1 2

Source: Andrews internal figures Q4 2013 compared to Q4 2012. Free valuation does not apply to valuations conducted for insurance or mortgage purposes.

ANDREWS.indd 3

Putney 020 8780 2233 Southfields 020 8874 6686 Streatham 020 8769 7722

Andrews. Get ahead. andrewsonline.co.uk

04/02/2014 10:19 22/01/2014 09:17

ABSOLUTELY Property

Lowdown for Landlords

‘What are some easy and affordable ways to get a higher rent and return on investment?’

nsure you research your agent thoroughly. When letting a property, it is essential to use a proactive agent with excellent local knowledge. A good agent will communicate any feedback they get from viewers so problems can be addressed quickly. • Potential tenants tend to spend a lot less time deciding on their next home than buyers, so remember that first impressions count. It’s important to consider both the property’s curb appeal, together with the look and feel created inside the property. • Gardens and communal areas are often forgotten, so prior to a viewing remember to check these are clean & tidy. • Preparing a property for a viewing shouldn’t be underestimated. A wellpresented and cared-for property helps to attract your first tenant, particularly if situated in an area with a high supply of rented properties, achieve optimum rents in the face of competition, and prevent/ reduce void periods. • Make it appeal to the masses and repaint the property in neutral shades. Open all curtains and blinds. A property filled with natural light will be a lot more attractive than a dark and dingy one. • Never underestimate the power of fresh flowers; they are an affordable way to spruce up and make a room smell nice.

Fraser Allen

Manager at Featherstone Leigh, Battersea 020 7228 2278; featherstoneleigh.co.uk

Gwendolen Avenue, SW15 A beautifully presented, two double bedroom, first floor conversion flat set within a well maintained period house. This property offers two spacious bedrooms, a large bright lounge with dining area, two shower rooms (both ensuite), a separate fitted kitchen, and plenty of built in storage. The whole property was recently refurbished to a very high standard with neutral decoration throughout.

£1,900 Per Month Contact

Chamberland Residential 020 8704 1313; chamberlandres.co.uk

Santley Street, SW4 This superb split-level, two bedroom flat offers spacious accommodation with a fresh modern interior. The property is presented with a modern contemporary finish with attractive wood flooring and boasts a bright and airy reception room with a fully fitted eat in kitchen, a generously proportioned master bedroom, good-sized second bedroom and smart modern bathroom with bath and shower.

£400 Per Week Contact

Bushells, Clapham 020 7501 0454; bushells.com

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ABSOLUTELY Property

New to the market Vendor Advice

Braemar Avenue, SW19 Offered to the market with no onward chain is this delightful Edwardian family home. This house has an excellent balance between bedroom and reception space with four well proportioned bedrooms, open plan kitchen/ dining room and further sitting room. The family kitchen offers a stunning well appointed kitchen bathed in light from the bi-fold doors opening onto the rear garden.

£975,000 Freehold

Contact

John D Wood & Co., Southfields 020 8870 8811; johndwood.co.uk

Landcroft Road, SE22 A very attractive 4 bedroom Victorian family house situated in this much sought after location. The property has been modernised by the current owners to an extremely high standard. The accommodation is arranged over 3 floors comprising; 4 bedrooms, 2 reception rooms, a study, 2 bathrooms (1 en-suite) plus separate W.C., a stunning eat in kitchen with bi-fold doors that lead out on to an attractive landscaped garden.

£899,950 Freehold

Contact

Pedder, East Dulwich 020 8299 3721; pedderproperty.com

Rental Yield verses Capital Gains

nvesting in a property for capital gain or for rental yield are, by nature, polar opposites. In London, capital appreciation has proved to be meteoric - the latest John D Wood & Co. indices for Wandsworth showed a price increase of 36% in one year alone. Be mindful, though, that along with capital appreciation, comes Capital Gains Tax! Rental yield in high value areas on the other hand, tends to be much lower. A current ballpark figure for rental yield in Wandsworth is between 4%-5% per annum. From this return landlords need to deduct the costs of owning and letting a rental property (lettings and management fees, service charges, ground rent, maintenance costs), which leaves you with a net yield of around 3%. Another positive of a buy-to-let is that you can offset any rental income against the interest being charged on the mortgage. The majority of property investors in London aim to hold their property for the long term and buy for capital appreciation, covering the outgoings of the property through rental income and building up a small reserve fund to pay for the property’s upkeep and repairs.

James Weston Manager of John D Wood & Co., Wandsworth

020 3151 5920; johndwood.co.uk

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Christopher Cady, Associate Director

Victorian ‘Toastrack’ house Semi-Detached

p r e m i e r

Trinity Road, SW18 A wider than average semi-detached Victorian house arranged over three floors. The house forms part of an area known locally as ‘The Toastrack’ which adjoins the open spaces of Wandsworth Common. Accommodation includes a wide entrance hall, large cellar, double drawing room, cloakroom, kitchen/breakfast room/conservatory, five bedrooms, three bathrooms, front garden with off street parking and a secluded rear garden. £1,775,000 Freehold

Wandsworth Common 020 8672 9077

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Balham 020 8675 6565

Earlsfield 020 8971 7070

Wandsworth 020 8875 8899

Battersea 020 7924 2255

Putney Open 2014

Clapham 020 8875 7995

Streatham 020 8677 9900

Wandsworth Common 020 8672 9077

East Dulwich 020 8875 7999

Tooting 020 8767 0522

Wimbledon 020 3195 9111

Abbeville Village

www.jacksonsestateagents.com

p r e m i e r

Family home

Narbonne Avenue, SW4 This substantial Victorian property is situated in the much sought after Narbonne Avenue in the heart of Abbeville village. Accommodation is arranged over three floors and comprises double reception room, kitchen/ breakfast room, cellar, five double bedrooms, and further loft room with ensuite, two bathrooms and well proportioned mature rear garden. ÂŁ1,450,000 Freehold

Clapham 020 8875 7995

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Sophia Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Carroll & Tilly, Sales Manager

Views of Wandsworth Common Unique property Bellevue Road, SW17 Situated in a prime location affording views across Wandsworth Common. There is a reception room, a separate dining room leading into the kitchen/ breakfast room with slate worktops and breakfast bar. Whilst the first floor bedroom and bathroom are currently as a master suite, the majority of the bedroom accommodation is arranged on the second floor together with a utility room and a roof terrace. ÂŁ1,350,000 Leasehold

Wandsworth Common 020 8672 9077

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Balham 020 8675 6565

Earlsfield 020 8971 7070

Wandsworth 020 8875 8899

Battersea 020 7924 2255

Putney Open 2014

Clapham 020 8875 7995

Streatham 020 8677 9900

Wandsworth Common 020 8672 9077

East Dulwich 020 8875 7999

Tooting 020 8767 0522

Wimbledon 020 3195 9111

www.jacksonsestateagents.com

Family home

Picturesque location

Lewin Road, SW16 We are delighted to offer this three storey, semi detached period family home. The well thought out accommodation is exceeding two thousand two hundred square feet which has resulted in an exceptional living space that provides brilliantly for the modern family. This highly desirable tree lined road is located opposite Streatham common and is renowned for being one of Streathamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most picturesque Victorian streets. ÂŁ1,300,000 Freehold

Streatham 020 8677 9900

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www.baylisoldschool.com

NOW AVAILABLE

PRICES FROM ÂŁ399,950

A unique development of 89 new homes 1, 2 & 3 bedrooom apartments and 4 bedroom houses FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT

020 3668 1000 v.farrar@currell.com Currell Residential www.currell.com

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CurrellResidential

£375 per week Tennyson Street, SW8 • Close to Queenstown Road • Private patio garden • Diamond Conservation Area • Period Conversion • Period Features

£395 per week Thurleigh Road, SW12 • Two double bedrooms • Victorian conversion • 0.3m Clapham South tube • Newly refurbished

020 3668 1000

Currells_Mar.indd 3

battersea@currell.com

www.currell.com

30/01/2014 13:13

ABSOLUTELY Property

Development Round-up The Schoolyard, SW18 Recently launched, L&Q’s flagship development, The Schoolyard, offers one, two and three bedroom apartments in the leafy, soughtafter borough of Wandsworth. Made up of 119 thoughtfully-designed homes, all with outdoor space, buyers at The Schoolyard will benefit from a premium specification. Modern interiors include chrome fittings throughout, and smooth finish white walls to complement the engineered hardwood flooring in the lounge. Custom built kitchens feature integrated Zanussi and Electrolux appliances, while the bathroom features Roca Hall designs. Underfloor heating, video door entry and built-in wardrobe with sliding mirrored doors add a touch of luxury, while spacious shared communal gardens reinforce the strong community feel that identifies the site’s heritage.

Prices start from

£495,000 0844 406 9288; theschoolyardsw18.com

Ashlar Court, W6

shlar Court is a fine specimen of how International Modernism influenced British civic architecture of the 1930s. The building is of load-bearing masonry construction, punctuated by the regular spacing of the timber sliding sash windows. Steel windows, with their typically slender frames were also utilised; for the ‘winter gardens’ and the stair towers. Linden Homes is also making some further additions to the building under the guise of both masonry construction, built using handmade bricks in ‘monk’ bond, to match the existing brickwork and the introduction of contemporary ‘pavilions’ on the accommodation wings. The introduction of large powder coated aluminium windows on these extremely stylish top floor apartments, ultimately give a light and airy feel. While the refurbished homes offer innovative layouts for stylish modern living, Linden Homes’ approach has been to prioritise the restoration of Ashlar Court’s unique character. The existing iconic brass clocks will be celebrated at Ashlar Court, following a meticulous refurbishment before they are reinstated in the building for visitors to see. Among the listed features being retained are spectacular travertine and bronze fireplaces, walnut veneer panelling and woodblock floors. The ‘Terrazzo’ staircase will also be preserved along with its classically styled

balustrades. The revival continues outside, where beautifully landscaped private gardens (over the new basement car park, recently constructed) feature the original concrete fountain surround, which will be restored to its former glory as an impressive centrepiece.

Prices start from

£599,995 Linden Homes

0844 644 1582; lindenhomes.co.uk

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Digital illustration is indicative only. Prices correct at time of going to press.

FIRST& FOREMOST

OFFICIAL LAUNCH EVENT 15 FEBRUARY SOUTH WEST LONDON’S MOST EXCITING NEW DEVELOPMENT IN THE HEART OF BATTERSEA VILLAGE Cobalt Place, a new contemporary and sustainable development of 1, 2 & 3 bedroom apartments, ideally situated for the fashionable Battersea Village lifestyle. Battersea Park and Clapham Junction station are both within walking distance.

CALL 020 8879 9099 WWW.COBALTPLACE.CO.UK

1 bedroom apartments from £415,000 2 bedroom apartments from £530,000

LOVE

CobaltPlace_BattClap_Mar.indd 2

WHERE

YOU

LIVE

29/01/2014 16:20

Scouting the perfect tenants for you...

CHAMBERLANDS.indd 2

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Seaton Close

£3100pcm

Chesterton Close

£1600pcm

Disraeli Road

£1400pcm

Upper Richmond Road

£1350pcm

A beautifully presented Regency-style 3/4 bedroom house, forming part of this secure & highly sought after gated development. The property benefits from three good sized double bedrooms with excellent storage, a further study/dressing room, three bathrooms, one ensuite, two reception rooms, a large modern eat in kitchen with separate utility room and a large private grass garden.

A charming one double bedroom garden flat located on one of Putney’s most sought after and convenient roads. This period property has been recently redecorated and offers an incredible amount of space, a separate eat in kitchen, high ceilings throughout and a large private garden with a side return.

A newly refurbished two double bedroom apartment set within this sought after gated development.The property boasts spacious rooms, neutral decoration, a separate modern fitted kitchen, a new bathroom with shower, two good sized double bedrooms with built in cupboards and off street parking is also available. The entire property offers excellent storage throughout and is available now.

A spacious ground floor one bedroom apartment located in this secure development. This property offers plenty of built in storage, a separate fitted kitchen, a bathroom with shower and the bedroom has a large cupboard. Further benefits include unallocated off street parking upon availability and being across the street from the Putney Leisure Centre. Available in March.

www.chamberlandres.co.uk | 020 8704 1313 lettings@chamberlandres.co.uk | sales@chamberlandres.co.uk | 212 Upper Richmond Road, London, SW15 6TD

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Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk

Correze, France

£131,000

Marina Alta, Spain

£372,000

Round Hill Estate, Nevis

£224,000

West Palm Beach, Florida

£243,000

Haute Vienne, France

£163,000

La Plagne, French Alps

£134,000

A restored, three-storey, stone townhouse, formerly a medieval courthouse in a hilltop village.

“Summer Winds” is a well-appointed, well maintained, two bedroom house located in a quiet area on Round Hill Estate.

A four bedroom farmhouse located in a small hamlet close to the village of St Mathieu.

A four bedroom, stone finca offering spacious, Spanish living and located just 3km outside the Jalon Valley.

A three bedroom, two storey Monterey style home located in the desirable south end of West Palm Beach.

A two bedroom apartment in the Crete Cote Village development located just below La Plagne.

Hamptons Wimbledon Lettings. 020 8454 7629

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Coombe, KT2 A stunning and immaculately presented family home situated in a private cul-de-sac in the sought-after Coombe area. The property has been extended to provide well-balanced accommodation with bright and spacious rooms over two floors. EPC: D

£2,700,000 Freehold • • • • • •

Detached Family Home Excellent Reception Space Six Bedrooms Six Shower/Bathrooms Secluded Garden Secure Driveway

Hamptons Wimbledon Sales. 020 8454 7249

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

Brynmaer Road, SW11 Situated on one of Battersea’s most highly regarded roads, this Victorian house has been beautifully arranged and styled by its current owner to provide a property that is ideal for modern family living.

£2,595,000 Freehold John D Wood & Co., Battersea • 020 7228 0174; johndwood.co.uk

Brodrick Road, SW17

New Park Road, SW2

A rare and exceptionally wide, almost detached double fronted ‘country’ style house with an outstanding garden and location to match. Set well back from this residential road, the house enjoys a substantial driveway with parking for multiple cars. Behind the beautifully characterful exterior, the internal accommodation is second to none and boasts a wealth of period features.

An exquisitely developed Grade ll listed property of almost 2000 sq ft. This three storey home boasts four/five excellently proportioned bedrooms, two with access to a flat roof. Four luxurious bathrooms and an enormous living space occupy the entire ground floor, with a lovely modern French country style kitchen leading onto a well-lit courtyard garden.

Price on Application Freehold

£975,050 Freehold

Sullivan Thomas, Wandsworth

Keating Estates, Clapham

020 8767 7711; sullivanthomas.co.uk

020 7720 2113; keatingestates.co.uk

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ABSOLUTELY Property

Carrington House, Montague Road, SW19

House Hunting

This luxurious top floor penthouse apartment offers three private balconies, a fitted kitchen, secure private parking and is available for long lease.

£759,950 Leasehold

Lauristons, Wimbledon

The Shard

020 8946 9468; lauristons.com

Bowden Street, SE11 This is a design-led one bedroom top floor maisonette where every detail has been catered for by the meticulous planning of Yen Yen Teh at Emulsion Architecture to create a luxurious high specification

Tim Perkin

Residential Sales at Rymer Irens’ Nightingale Lane Office

property rarely seen on the London lettings market. The property is 1,496 sq ft and has an open plan kitchen/dining/reception room on the second floor and the bedrooms have an en suite wet room and walk in wardrobe on the second floor.

020 8045 8989; rymer-irens.com

£950 Per Week John D Wood & Co., Clapham 020 8673 2854; johndwood.co.uk

Absolutely SW4 Justin Dibben Sales Manager of Jacksons, Clapham

020 8875 7995; jacksonestateagents.com

Restaurant The Abbeville Kitchen on Abbeville Road. A great place to unwind at the end of a day with their fresh food and creative menu.

Finest Cocktail

An Old Fashioned. Bourbon, bitters & sugar, stirred with ice and a hint of orange - well worth it!

worth a visit.

Best kept Secret Abbeville Village, Abbeville Road is at the heart of the village with a wonderful café culture and an eclectic mix of independent boutiques and restaurants and bars

Exceptional Property

Narbonne Avenue, SW4 A delightful five bedroom family house on one of the best roads in the Abbeville Village. This period property offers superb entertaining space on the ground floor with five large bedrooms on the upper floors. £1,450,000.

Lost Hour

Having a picnic lunch with family on the common on a warm summer’s day. You could be forgiven for thinking you are miles from the busy streets of London.

Most satisfying transaction I’ve had: We recently sold a house on Hosack Road that was over a year in the making as our clients found it very difficult to find a house to buy. Thankfully they did, eventually, and it was hugely satisfying to find them great buyers who already love their new home as much as they did. Most interesting property I’ve been involved with: For me it has to be my Granny’s old three bed miner’s cottage that my brother and I completely renovated ourselves and then sold. Not the most glamorous property, but an incredibly fulfilling experience. The property I’d most like on our books is: I’m a big fan of modern architecture and so maybe one of the apartments in The Shard. Great views, plus the commission on £50m wouldn’t hurt either! Most unusual interior: Nothing too outlandish just yet, though I have seen a few houses that have been in the same family for generations and it is almost like stepping back in time, like a living museum. I never thought I’d see... My second paycheck after some ill-advised behavior at my first Christmas party having worked at the company for less than a week!

Stylish Boutique

Shipton & Heneage for a great range of quality English handmade shoes, as well as luxury leather goods and shoe accessories. Well

Spotlight on SW4 Average asking price - £1,006,140Average asking rents - £2,056 pcmAverage property value - £694,369

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Burntwood Close, SW18 | ÂŁ1,600,000 Freehold Occupying a most enviable position within a quiet close (with no-through traffic), this five double bedroom family house is not only beautifully presented but it is also remarkably bright and spacious and to the rear boasts a south/west facing garden with raised decked terrace.

rymer-irens.com

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Stylish, bright and immaculately presented, this two bedroom first floor flat, with open-plan reception room, is situated within this highly sought after residential road, a stone’s throw from the Northcote Road.

Burntwood Lane, SW17 | £850,000 Freehold Located moments from Bellevue Road and Wandsworth Common, a bright three bedroom period family house situated within the Beatrix Potter Catchment area. The house also has planning permission for a ground floor extension.

34 Bellevue Road London SW17 7EF

89 Nightingale Lane London SW12 8NX

020 8767 2222

020 8045 8989

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Hosack Road, SW17 | ÂŁ1,550,000 Freehold Significantly wider than normal, and just over 2,600 sq ft, this delightful semi-detached family home offers superb living & entertaining space and is conveniently situated close to both Wandsworth Common and Balham. Beautifully presented throughout, the house also has a wider garden (32ft) and off street parking.

rymer-irens.com

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Ritherdon Road, SW17 | ÂŁ625,000 Leasehold With three double bedrooms (one of which is en suite) and occupying the entire first floor of a Victorian building, this beautifully presented flat also has a stylish open-plan reception room/kitchen and is being sold with no onward chain.

Hosack Road, SW17 | ÂŁ625,000 Share of Freehold Immaculately presented throughout and with its own front door, this two double bedroom, ground floor, purpose-built Victorian garden flat has two reception rooms, a west facing patio garden and is close to Wandsworth Common and Balham.

34 Bellevue Road London SW17 7EF

89 Nightingale Lane London SW12 8NX

020 8767 2222

020 8045 8989

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Loxley Road, SW18 | ÂŁ1,450,000 Freehold A rare opportunity to acquire a delightful family home, forming part of this desirable residential road within the area known locally as the Magdalen Estate. Having been owned by the same family for many years, the house now offers the potential to fully renovate & extend it, subject to planning permission.

rymer-irens.com

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An exceptional family home, arranged over four floors, offering excellent entertaining & living space, including an impressive basement conversion. Along with six bedrooms, the house also has a delightful 70ft south facing garden and is situated on the doorstep of Wandsworth Common.

Wandle Road, SW17 | ÂŁ2,500,000 Freehold This wonderful four storey Victorian family home benefits from five bedrooms, including a fabulous master suite, and boasts excellent entertaining space arranged over two floors. To the rear of the house is an exquisite 94ft south facing garden and Bellevue Road is a short walk away.

34 Bellevue Road London SW17 7EF

89 Nightingale Lane London SW12 8NX

020 8767 2222

020 8045 8989

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Spencer Park INTRODUCING

Designed by Chassey & Last Architects, these four magnificent homes redefine exclusive living, each a masterpiece of classical and contemporary elegance.

ach house offers over 4,600 sq ft of brilliantly proportioned living space with generous ceiling heights and finishes specified by international interior design consultants The London Furnishing Co. The bespoke specification and home technology are exacting and implemented to reflect the aspirations of the most discerning home owner, family and guests. Each house has a master suite, four family bedrooms and an en-suite guest bedroom. The master suite occupies the entire second floor level, providing around 740 sq ft of refined luxury, extensive dressing area and spa bathroom with free standing bath and walk in shower. Outside each house are several off-street parking spaces - inside the properties provide outstanding living, reception and entertaining spaces and beautifully appointed kitchen/dining rooms all with access to a terrace and the substantial garden beyond.

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ABSOLUTELY Property

Each of the gardens has private gated access into the beautiful Spencer Park - a tranquil haven of almost four acres, exclusively for residents use and providing a safe sanctuary in which children can play. It has its own tennis court, playground and rose gardens, and also provides an ideal retreat for residents’ private yearly celebrations. Asquith Villas are very well placed for travel across central London & beyond from nearby Clapham Junction which is within half a mile, while Clapham South provides Northern Line connections to

the Capital’s entire tube network. The houses also enjoy close proximity and easy access to some of the Capital’s finest primary and secondary schools. Austin Thorogood, Director of John Thorogood, comments; ‘Spencer Park is a special privilege afforded to very few and is one of the finest and most closely guarded green spaces south of The River. These magnificent homes therefore represent an incredibly rare opportunity for a radically changed lifestyle without leaving London.”

Asquith, Spencer Park, SW4 Villas 1 & 3 - £4.95m • Villa 2 - Sale Agreed Villa 4 - Not Yet Released

Joint Sole Agents

John Thorogood, 020 7228 7474; austin@john-thorogood.co.uk Savills, 020 8877 1222; rchatwin@savills.com

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FOR SALE

Broomwood Road

Between the Commons SW11 £1,950,000 | FREEHOLD This is something special and virtually impossible to find between the commons - a substantial five bedroom Victorian house with large sunny garden for less than £2m. Its 2700 square feet of immaculately designed and stylishly refurbished space includes outstanding extensions to kitchen, loft and basement and has been meticulously planned for modern life. Close to schools, fashionable Northcote Road and excellent transport facilities. EPC rating - C • Front Garden • Entrance Hall • Double Reception Room • 27’ Kitchen/ Breakfast Room • 27’ Family Room • 48’ Garden • Cloakroom/WC

• Utility Room • 5 Double Bedrooms • 3 Bath/ Shower Rooms • L.B. Wandsworth • Residents’ Parking • 2682 SQ.FT/ 249 SQ.M

EXCLUSIVE, HD FILMS FOR EVERY PROPERTY

@JTEstateAgents

john-thorogood.co.uk | 020 7228 7474 | info@john-thorogood.co.uk | 140 Northcote Road SW11 6QZ

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FOR SALE

Alderbrook Road

Clapham South, SW12 £1,550,000 | FREEHOLD This wide five double bedroom Victorian property (c. 2300 square feet) has been beautifully extended into the side return and loft and has excellent ground floor living accommodation and a 31’ rear garden. Situated close to Clapham Common, excellent local schools and superb transport connections to The City/West End. EPC - C

• Entrance Hall • Front Reception Room • Rear Reception Room • Kitchen/Breakfast Room • Cellar • Utility Room • Cloakroom/WC

EXCLUSIVE, HD FILMS FOR EVERY PROPERTY

• 31’ Garden • 5 Double Bedrooms • Bathroom/WC • Shower Room//WC • L.B. Wandsworth • 2290 SQ.FT/ 212.7 SQ.M

@JTEstateAgents I N N O VA T I O N

SINCE 1991 INTEGRITY

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FOR SALE

Nightingale Lane, Clapham South SW12 £1,450,000 | FREEHOLD This rare and substantially wide “Arts & Crafts” semi-detached property is an ideal family house with its large mature south-facing garden and off-street parking for several cars. It requires complete modernisation, has further scope for extension and is conveniently situated less than a quarter of a mile from Clapham South tube station, and close to the open spaces of Clapham Common. EPC - E

• Side Access • Off Street Parking • Large Reception Hall • 2 Reception Rooms • Kitchen • Conservatory • Utility Room • Cloakroom/WC

• South-facing Garden 36’ 1 X 35’ 3 • 5 Bedrooms • Bath /Shower Room/WC • Extensive Eaves Storage • 2325 SQ.FT / 216 SQ.M • London Borough of Wandsworth • No Forward Chain

FOR SALE

Alderbrook Road Nightingale Triangle, SW12 £1,000,000 | FREEHOLD A well-proportioned and tastefully refurbished Victorian house with beautiful 44’ SW-facing garden, and a smart, modern interior plus potential for expansion into the large loft and side return. Close to excellent transport facilities, good schools and Clapham Common. EPC rating - D

• Entrance Hall • Double Reception Room • Kitchen/Breakfast Room • Cellar • 44’ SW-facing Garden

• 3 Double Bedrooms • Bath/Shower Room/WC • Unconverted Loft • L.B. Wandsworth • 1248 SQ.FT / 115.9 SQ.M + LOFT

EXCLUSIVE, HD FILMS FOR EVERY PROPERTY

@JTEstateAgents

john-thorogood.co.uk | 020 7228 7474 | info@john-thorogood.co.uk | 140 Northcote Road SW11 6QZ

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FOR SALE

Nightingale Lane Clapham South, SW12 £725,000 | LONG LEASEHOLD This exceptionally spacious apartment in a Grade II listed building has just been extensively refurbished throughout. Both bedrooms are large doubles whilst entertaining space is outstanding with a 20’ reception and large kitchen/breakfast room. Permission for a south-facing roof terrace has been granted and there is an enormous storage loft. Situated close to Clapham South tube & Wandsworth Common mainline stations. No chain. EPC rating - D

• Entrance Hall • 20’ Reception Room • Newly-Fitted Kitchen/Breakfast Room • 2 Large Double Bedrooms • Bath/Shower Room/WC • Planning Permission for Roof Terrace

• Large Unconverted Loft • L.B. Wandsworth • Long Leasehold • Residents’ Parking • 1719 SQ.FT./159.7 SQ.M. (inc loft)

TO LET

Calbourne Road Nightingale Triangle, SW12 £625 | PER WEEK An attractive, three double bedroom, two bathroom, Victorian house with well-fitted modern kitchen and South-facing garden on this delightful residential road in the Nightingale Triangle, close to Wandsworth Common and excellent transport facilities. EPC - D

• Double Reception • Kitchen • 3 Bedrooms • 2 Bathrooms (1 x En-Suite) + WC • Roof Terrace

EXCLUSIVE, HD FILMS FOR EVERY PROPERTY

• South-Facing Garden • Residents Parking • Cellar & Eaves Storage • London Borough of Wandsworth • 1528 Sq Ft/142 Sq M

@JTEstateAgents I N N O VA T I O N

SINCE 1991 INTEGRITY

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FOR SALE

Roseneath Road

Between the Commons SW11 £1,600,000 | FREEHOLD This beautiful, semi-detached Victorian family home with secure gated access, and extra-wide living space, has a recently converted basement and a contemporary extended kitchen opening onto a south-facing garden. Very convenient for Clapham South tube, good schools and fashionable Northcote Road. EPC rating - D.

• Secure Gated Entrance • Side Hall • Double Drawing Room • Family/Media Room • Kitchen/Breakfast Room • Cloakroom/WC

• Utility Room • South-facing Garden • Master Bedroom • 3 Further Double Bedrooms • 2 Bath/Shower Rooms (1 E/S) • 2035 SQ.FT/ 189 SQ.M

EXCLUSIVE, HD FILMS FOR EVERY PROPERTY

@JTEstateAgents

john-thorogood.co.uk | 020 7228 7474 | info@john-thorogood.co.uk | 140 Northcote Road SW11 6QZ

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FOR SALE

Broomwood Road

Between the Commons, SW11 £1,125,000 | SHARE OF FREEHOLD At a spectacular 1456 square feet (135.3 SQ.M), this exceptional 3 double bedroom, 2 bathroom family maisonette is bigger than many three bedroom houses in the area. It has been designed with flair, has outstanding living space and a beautiful sunny south-facing garden. Situated just off Northcote Road in the likely catchment for Honeywell School. EPC - D

• Entrance Hall • Side Access • 27’ Double Reception • 24’ Kitchen/Family Room • 3 Double Bedrooms • 2 Bath/Shower Rooms (1 En Suite)

EXCLUSIVE, HD FILMS FOR EVERY PROPERTY

• Cloakroom/WC • South-facing Garden • Residents’ Parking • Likely Honeywell Catchment • 1456 SQ.FT / 135.3 SQ.M

@JTEstateAgents I N N O VA T I O N

SINCE 1991 INTEGRITY

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Sales

£2,950,000 - £2,500,000 Freehold Upper Richmond Road SW15

Three new luxury homes on the Upper Richmond Road. These contemporary developments will offer luxury living in a highly sought-after area.

4/5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 3 reception rooms, Kitchen/family room, Gym, Balcony, Garden.

West Putney Sales 020 8785 6666 | wputneysales@dng.co.uk

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Sales

douglasandgordon.com

ÂŁ1,595,000 Freehold Elms Crescent SW4

A fantastic five bedroom house which is immaculately presented. This family house offers spacious and well-proportioned family living and entertaining space.

5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Double reception room, Kitchen/breakfast room, Cellar, Garden, EPC: D.

Clapham Southside Sales 020 8675 4400 | clapsthsales@dng.co.uk

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Sales

ÂŁ1,575,000 Freehold Crescent Lane SW4

A fantastic four bedroom family home with a landscaped 76ft, south-west facing garden. The property, which is being sold chain free, offers the buyers scope to extend further subject to planning.

4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Double reception room, Kitchen/dining room, Cellar, Large loft, Garden, Roof terrace, EPC: D.

Occupying a prime position on this popular road Between the Commons this mid-terrace Victorian house gives an incoming purchaser opportunity to create additional living space.

4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Double reception room, Kitchen/breakfast room, Garden, EPC: E.

Clapham Southside Sales 020 8675 4400 | clapsthsales@dng.co.uk

ÂŁ1,500,000 Freehold Bramfield Road SW11 Battersea Sales 020 7924 2000 | battsales@dng.co.uk

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Sales

douglasandgordon.com

ÂŁ1,495,000 Freehold Narbonne Avenue SW4

A gorgeous family home located on this soughtafter street right in the heart of the Abbeville Village and only a short walk from both Clapham Common and the shops of Abbeville Road.

5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Double reception room, Kitchen/breakfast room, Cellar, Roof terrace, Garden, EPC: D.

With breathtaking views of Battersea Park and moments from the River Thames and the King's Road, this stunning second floor flat is an absolute must see for anyone wanting to buy into the area.

3 double bedrooms, 2 en-suite bathrooms, Family bathroom, Reception room, Kitchen, Balcony with park views, EPC: D.

Clapham Southside Sales 020 8675 4400 | clapsthsales@dng.co.uk

ÂŁ1,495,000 Share of Freehold Albert Bridge Road SW11 Battersea Park Sales 020 7720 8077 | battpksales@dng.co.uk

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Sales

ÂŁ1,395,000 Freehold Wakehurst Road SW11

Rare to the market, a fabulous opportunity to purchase this wider than average three double bedroom un-extended house on this much soughtafter road Between the Commons.

3 double bedrooms, Family bathroom, Double reception room, Kitchen/breakfast room, Cellar, Garden, EPC: E.

This fabulous house is located on a peaceful and smart residential road, ideally placed for the shopping and transport links of the Lower Richmond Road.

5 bedrooms, Bathroom, En-suite shower room, Double reception room, Kitchen, Utility room, Roof terrace, West-facing garden, EPC: C.

Battersea Sales 020 7924 2000 | battsales@dng.co.uk

ÂŁ1,395,000 Freehold Danemere Street SW15 West Putney Sales 020 8785 6666 | wputneysales@dng.co.uk

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Sales

douglasandgordon.com

ÂŁ1,200,000 Freehold Shuttleworth Road SW11

Located on this sought-after road in Battersea, set between the river and Battersea Park, is this fantastic family home that offers a good balance of living & entertaining space.

3 double bedrooms, Study/single bedroom, Family bathroom, En-suite shower room, Double reception room, Kitchen/dining room, Garden, EPC: C.

An exceptional 'Grid' house on one of Southfields most prestigious streets. Southfields village centre and underground station are a short walk away; providing easy access into central London.

4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Reception room, Kitchen/breakfast room, Garden, Southfields grid location, EPC: D.

Battersea Park Sales 020 7720 8077 | battpksales@dng.co.uk

ÂŁ1,100,000 Freehold Engadine Street SW18 Southfields Sales 020 8874 8822 | sthfldssales@dng.co.uk

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Sales

ÂŁ850,000 Freehold Replingham Road SW18

A fantastic opportunity to purchase a substantial, three double bedroom house, on a popular road in Southfields.

3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Reception room, Kitchen/breakfast room, Garden, EPC: E.

Beautifully presented throughout, this two double bedroom flat occupies the ground floor of this mid terrace Victorian property and has the benefit of a large south-facing garden.

2 double bedrooms, Bathroom, Reception room, Kitchen, Cellar, South-facing garden, EPC: D.

Southfields Sales 020 8874 8822 | sthfldssales@dng.co.uk

ÂŁ745,000 Leasehold Bramfield Road SW11 Battersea Sales 020 7924 2000 | battsales@dng.co.uk

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Sales

douglasandgordon.com

ÂŁ699,950 Leasehold West Hill SW15

A spacious, contemporary three bedroom apartment situated within this stylish new development.

3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Reception room, Kitchen/breakfast room, Lift, Roof terrace, Offstreet parking, Communal garden, EPC: B.

A fully refurbished ground floor garden flat on one of East Putney's most popular residential streets. The property has been extended and updated throughout giving a light and modern flat.

2 double bedrooms, Bathroom, En-suite shower room, Open-plan kitchen/reception room, Private garden, Courtyard, Cellar, EPC: C.

East Putney Sales 020 8788 3000 | putneysales@dng.co.uk

ÂŁ699,950 Leasehold Mexfield Road SW15 East Putney Sales 020 8788 3000 | putneysales@dng.co.uk

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Lettings

ÂŁ1,500 per week Unfurnished St. John's Avenue SW15

A rare opportunity to rent this substantial six bedroom family house in this prime Central Putney location.

6 double bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 3 reception rooms, Kitchen/breakfast room, Dining room, Garden, Off-street parking, EPC: F.

This stunning house has been completely refurbished throughout with a sixth bedroom and third bathroom being added as well as a brand new eat in kitchen being installed.

Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, 5 further bedrooms, 2 further bathrooms, Reception room, Eat-in Kitchen, Garden, EPC: C.

East Putney Lettings 020 8788 3333 | putneylets@dng.co.uk

ÂŁ1,295 per week Unfurnished Brynmaer Road SW11 Battersea Park Lettings 020 7498 5243 | battpklets@dng.co.uk

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Lettings

douglasandgordon.com

£995 per week Unfurnished Broxash Road SW11

An immaculate family home with a neutral contemporary finish. The property is light and spacious throughout.

5 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Double reception room, Kitchen/breakfast room, Garden, EPC: E.

This property benefits from a large open-plan living area with a modern, well-equipped kitchen leading on to a private garden.

4 bedrooms, En-suite bathroom, Shower room, Open-plan kitchen/reception room, Garden, Underground parking, EPC: G.

Battersea Lettings 020 7924 2002 | battlets@dng.co.uk

£745 per week Furnished Arcadian Place SW18 Southfields Lettings 020 8874 8844 | sthfldslets@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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Lettings

ÂŁ620 per week Furnished St.Georges Wharf SW8

A unique opportunity to rent an apartment within the prestigious St Georges Tower, one of the tallest residential buildings in Europe.

Bedroom, Shower room, Reception room, Kitchen, 24hr concierge, Gym, Spa, Swimming pool, EPC: B.

A fantastic spacious split-level flat situated on the ground and lower ground floors of a pretty period building with wooden floors throughout and views over the common.

2 double bedrooms, Single bedroom, 2 bathrooms (1 en-suite), Reception room, Kitchen/breakfast room, Off-street parking, EPC: D.

Battersea Park Lettings 020 7498 5243 | battpklets@dng.co.uk

ÂŁ535 per week Furnished Clapham Common SW4 Clapham Southside Lettings 020 8675 0888 | clapsthlets@dng.co.uk

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Lettings

douglasandgordon.com

£515 per week Furnished Battersea Rise SW11

A stunning split-level apartment ideal for a corporate tenant. This light and spacious property has a large open-plan reception room/kitchen with doors opening onto a decked roof terrace.

Master bedroom with en-suite shower room, Second double bedroom, Bathroom, Reception room/kitchen, Roof terrace, EPC: D.

An immaculately presented two bedroom first floor flat with a roof terrace, situated in Abbeville Village.

2 double bedrooms, Bathroom, Reception room, Kitchen, South-facing roof terrace, EPC: D.

Battersea Lettings 020 7924 2002 | battlets@dng.co.uk

£450 per week Furnished Hambalt Road SW4 Clapham Southside Lettings 020 8675 0888 | clapsthlets@dng.co.uk

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Click with us at jacksonsestateagents.com

Richard Turner, Sales Manager

Wimbledon Park Golf Club

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